Hong Kong: Deputy SJ attends forum in Urumqi

Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan today led a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region delegation to participate in a forum in Urumqi, Xinjiang, to promote Hong Kong's ties with Xinjiang and Uzbekistan.

After a visit to an Uzbekistan product fair, Mr Cheung attended the opening ceremony of the forum. He then called on Standing Committee Member of the CPC Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Regional Committee and Executive Vice Chairman of the People's Government of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Chen Weijun.

Mr Cheung said that Hong Kong, with distinctive advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and close connection to the world under the "one country, two systems" principle, is playing the roles of super connector and super value-adder for the Belt & Road countries and regions.

He added that as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre practising common law, one of the most preferred seats for arbitration worldwide and also a key link for the Belt & Road Initiative, Hong Kong is well positioned to build with other regions a system of fair, reasonable and transparent international trade rules.

Mr Cheung also mentioned the nine mutual legal assistance arrangements Hong Kong has with the Mainland, including the Mainland Judgments in Civil & Commercial Matters (Reciprocal Enforcement) Ordinance that will come into force by the end of this month.

It will be conducive to businesses choosing Hong Kong as the seat of arbitration and adopting Hong Kong law as the applicable law for their contracts, enabling the city to contribute to the national development, he explained.

Yesterday, Mr Cheung joined a group meeting with Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjayev and attended a banquet where he noted that the merchandise trade between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan amounted to $6 billion in 2022, a nearly 17-fold increase over 2021.

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Death toll rises to 13 in Israeli missile strike on Damascus: monitor

Xinhua) 09:05, January 22, 2024

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."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
If the Republican representative from Arizonas 9th Congressional District were the subject of a nursery rhyme, the character we might call Humpty Gosar would have fallen off the wall a long time ago.

But in this doggerel, all the kings horses and all the kings men wouldnt even try putting him back together.

Because they like him unglued.

Given that, the latest story about Gosar and what his office says was an unauthorized fundraising email, true or not, wouldnt have bothered Gosars voters  at  all.

Gosar's latest is hardly out of character

This time, Gosars campaign said a fundraising email in which the congressman bemoans a drop off in white Army recruits, was not authorized.

Fine. But something like that doesnt sound particularly out of character, either.

This is Gosar, after all, who in the past has cozied up to white supremacist and antisemite Nick Fuentes, who suggested not too long ago that non-Christians be absolutely annihilated.

This is Gosar, who, with fellow Republican U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs and others refused to sign a pledge denouncing white nationalism and white supremacy, as well as the xenophobic Great Replacement Theory.

He wanted Joint Chiefs chairman 'hung'

This is Gosar, who went on a maniacal rant against Gen. Mark Milley, accusing the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of being a traitor and promising some type of congressional retribution by the Republican-controlled House.

Gosar actually said, In a better society, quislings like the strange sodomy-promoting General Milley would be hung.

Rep. Biggs unwittingly helps: Abortion rights case

Things like this from Gosar, and worse, have been well publicized and are well known to everyone in Gosars district. Yet he still has overwhelming support from Republicans there.

After agents seized classified documents from Trumps Mar-a-Lago, for example, Gosar tweeted, The FBI raid on Trumps home tells us one thing. Failure is not an option. We must destroy the FBI.

His constituents shrugged.

He called Jan. 6 rioters 'peaceful protesters'

Gosar was among the Republicans who voted not to expel former Rep. George Santos, who created a fictional biography for himself and has been indicted on charges ranging from wire fraud to money laundering to theft of public funds.

A-OK with Gosar voters.

Gosar was among a small coterie of Republican lawmakers who were closely allied with the effort to keep Donald Trump in office after he lost the 2020 election, and he has gone far enough off the rails to actually describe the riotous mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol as peaceful protesters.

No biggie for GOP stalwarts in the 9th Congressional District.

Did Humpty Gosar land on his supporters?

It doesnt even bother them that six of Gosars siblings once did a campaign ad for his opponent.

Or that Gosars brother, Dave, an attorney in Wyoming, actually said of Gosar, I consider him a traitor to this country. I consider him a traitor to his family. He doesnt see it. Hes disgraced and dishonored himself.

The voters in the congressmans heavily Republican district apparently dont see it, either.

Perhaps when Humpty Gosar had his great fall  he landed on them.

Reach Montini at ed.montini@arizonarepublic.com.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Rep. Paul Gosar is unglued. Whats that make his supporters?
As the Tennessee General Assembly kicked off its 2024 session on Jan. 9, several Tennessee advocacy group traveled to the Capitol to urge lawmakers to focus on their defining issues: guns.

The Covenant School shooting last March sparked ongoing protests and bipartisan calls for gun safety reform, an issue that largely defined the end of the 2023 legislative session and an unproductive August special session Gov. Bill Lee called for broad public safety issues.

The thousands-strong protests of last spring have distilled to smaller advocacy groups pushing for reform, but the issue is still likely to play a major role in the 2024 session.

By mid-January, lawmakers had already filed more than a dozen firearm-related bills, and they can continue to file legislation through the end of January.

Here's a look at some of the most notable.

Allowing armed teachers at schools

HB 1202, a bill that would allow school staff to carry concealed handguns on campus, could emerge as high-profile legislation early in the 2024 session. It is a holdover from 2023 and could be poised for a full House vote at nearly any time.

Rep. Ryan Williams, R-Cookeville, filed the bill in January 2023, but it drew wider criticism following the Covenant shooting from gun-reform advocates and some educators who argued more guns on campus would further endanger students.

In April, a group of protesters, including educators, packed the House gallery to hear debate on the bill, but it was quickly tabled on the House floor. The move effectively stalled the legislation for 2023 but kept it alive for the 2024 session.

In the House, the bill is still in position for a full floor vote almost immediately: Williams would need to make a motion to bring back the bill, and it could be added to the calendar for the next floor session. It has further to go in the Senate, where it still has to go through the committee process.

The bill was rolled to the Senate Judiciary Committee calendar on Jan. 23. Sen. Todd Gardenhire, R-Chattanooga, is the chair and has wielded the committee as a chokepoint for firearm-related legislation since last April amid ongoing disagreements between the two chambers.

Creating gun violence prevention office

SB 1693, sponsored by Sen. Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis, would create a state gun violence prevention office within the Tennessee Department of Safety. The office would be tasked with collecting data on gun violence with an aim at developing prevention strategies.

Akbari does not yet have a House sponsor for the proposal.

Rafi Frasca, 10, Marco Vicencio Warbington, 7, Auden Abolfazli, sand together before speaking during a press conference with Rise and Shine Tennessee, before the first day of 2024 session at Cordell Hull State Office Building in Nashville , Tenn., Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024.

Gun policies for private schools

HB 1631 would amend current law to explicitly allow private schools to adopt a handgun carry policy on school property. The bill's Republican sponsors, Rep. Gino Bulso, R-Brentwood, and Sen. Joey Hensely, R-Hohenwald, say it would clarify existing state law that allows private schools serving kindergarten through 12th grade to adopt a handgun carry policy.

The new bill would amend the language to include schools with pre-kindergarten grades.

Gun death report

HB 1711 from Rep. Bob Freeman, D-Nashville, would direct the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to produce a quarterly report on children's deaths related to gun violence. The legislation does not yet have a Senate sponsor, as of Jan. 19.

Meanwhile, Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville, filed Senate Bill 1657, which would require the Department of Health to compile an annual report on firearms injuries and death. House Democratic Caucus Chair John Ray Clemmons, D-Nashville, is sponsoring the House version of the bill.

Safe storage requirements

HB 1667 authorizes local governments to regulate gun storage in unoccupied vehicles. The proposal, first filed by Rep. Caleb Hemmer, D-Nashville, would apply only to counties with a population over 98,800.

Republicans have so far resisted efforts to enact safe storage requirements statewide. Sen. Jeff Yarbro, D-Nashville, is the senate sponsor.

Thousands of guns are stolen each year in Tennessee. In Nashville, for instance, 1,203 guns were reported stolen from vehicles in 2023, the Metro Nashville Police Department said. That represents more than three-quarters of all the guns stolen in the city.

Red flag law

SB 1652 by Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville, would establish a risk protection order, oftentimes referred to as a red flag law. Under the legislation, a court could issue an order "upon a finding by clear and convincing evidence that a person poses a significant danger of causing personal injury to the person or others if allowed to possess or purchase a firearm." Law enforcement would petition for the order.

The Republican supermajority has continually resisted efforts on the issue. A proposal by Gov. Bill Lee to establish an emergency protective order law never got introduced last year amid the GOP push back.

Campbell, along with Rep. Bob Freeman, D-Nashville, has filed a slew of other gun-related legislation, including SB 1654, which creates a Class A misdemeanor for knowingly giving or otherwise providing a gun to a person known to be prohibited from owning a gun by law.

SB 1655 would require convicted domestic abusers to provide the court with documentation that they have given up their firearms to a third party. Tennessee law currently requires an convicted abuser give up their firearms, but there is no enforcement mechanism to ensure they do so.

People pack the one side of the House gallery that was available to the public during the first day of legislative session at Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville , Tenn., Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024.

Firearm 'hold' agreements

SB 1697 from Sen. Page Walley, R-Savannah, would establish a private transactional system between gun owners and licensed federal firearms dealers. The firearm "hold agreement" would allow gun owners to give their firearms to a dealer to hold for an agreed upon period. Rep. Andrew Farmer, R-Sevierville, is the House sponsor.

Gun prohibition for incompetent defendants

HB 1640 would block criminal defendants who are deemed mentally incompetent and unable to stand trial from legally buying or possessing a gun. House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, filed the legislation, which would require courts to report the incompetency findings to the FBI and Tennessee Department of Safety.

The bill would also require the criminal defendant found incompetent to be committed to a facility for mental health treatment. Lamberth cited the 2023 shooting death of Jillian Ludwig when filing the legislation.

Ludwig, a Belmont University freshman, was killed by a stray bullet fired by Shaquille Taylor, who had previously been deemed incompetent to stand trial for another violent crime but did not meet the standards for involuntary commitment.

This closes a loophole that puts the publics safety at serious risk by allowing dangerous individuals back into society to languish and re-offend without receiving the appropriate mental health services and supervision they desperately need," Lamberth said, citing the shooting death of Jillian Ludwig last year.

Firearm theft penalties

Several bills aim to address skyrocketing firearm theft rates through increased penalties.

Rep. John Gillespie, R-Memphis, filed HB 1720 to increase firearm theft to a Class C felony, which can carry three to 15 years in prison.

Meanwhile, SB 1703 would automatically transfer teenagers aged 14-16 into adult criminal court for the offense of theft of a firearm.

Tennessee already put in place stiffer penalties for theft of a firearm in 2021 when they passed permitless carry. Lawmakers increased the penalty for stealing a gun from a misdemeanor to a Class E felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of six months in jail.

Reach Melissa Brown at mabrown@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee politics: Debates on red flag laws to gun safety bills
Jennifer Wilson, right, sent videos of Christian Craighead, centre, to Tobi-Jayne Cadbury, left

A British Army dentist sent revenge porn videos of an SAS hero to a Cadbury heiress.

Maj Jennifer Wilson, 42, sent the sensitive pictures and video of Christian Craighead, 47, to his girlfriend Tobi-Jayne Cadbury, 36.

Wilson pleaded guilty to one count of sending indecent or grossly offensive electronic messages causing distress or anxiety, contrary to the Malicious Communications Act.

Aylesbury Crown Court heard that Wilson sent the images to Ms Cadbury between June 14 2022 and March 10 2023, according to the Daily Mail.

Ms Cadbury is the great-great granddaughter of the chocolate baron Richard Cadbury.

Wilson was also accused of stalking Ms Cadbury through two fake social media accounts called mikewoodali53 and crazy_fredo_87.

Tobi-Jayne Cadbury is the great-great granddaughter of the chocolate baron Richard Cadbury

She pleaded not guilty to the charge and entered the same plea for an allegation of perverting the course of justice.

Judge Recorder Wright ruled the first charge would lie on file and the second allegation was dismissed after prosecutor Neil King offered no evidence, the Mail said.

Recorder Wright told Wilson, of High Wycombe, Bucks, that she would be bailed pending sentencing reports.

The maximum time in prison for sending sexual photographs and film with the intention to cause distress is two years.

Mr Craighead, who served in the SAS having joined the Army at 16, was decorated for bravery for his role in defeating an Islamist terrorist attack. He was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross for the bravery he displayed in the attack on the Dusit D2 Hotel complex in Nairobi in January 2019.

He has since written a childrens book after he was banned from writing a personal memoir about the incident in Nairobi.

Global acclaim

Mr Craighead gained global acclaim after images of him dressed in civilian clothes, wearing body armour, carrying an automatic rifle and repeatedly entering the hotel complex to rescue civilians appeared in newspapers and on websites around the world.

In a previous interview with The Telegraph about his upcoming childrens book, he said: Its not the book people were waiting for, I know that, but Im extremely proud of it. This book is not a response to not being allowed to publish another book  this is a different project.

He added: I dont care if it only sells three copies. I didnt write it to make money, I wrote it because I think the story is really important and if it helps someone then thats great.

Wilson will be sentenced on March 27 at Aylesbury Crown Court.

An Army spokesman said: We are aware that Maj Jennifer Wilson has been released on bail by Aylesbury Crown Court pending sentencing. As the case is yet to conclude it would be inappropriate to comment further.

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Orlando police on Monday arrested a man they said is responsible for a fatal shooting earlier this month in a downtown parking garage.

Aaron Willis, 36, is facing a second-degree murder charge in the Jan. 7 incident that took the life of Terry Rivers, 35. At 2:13 a.m. that morning, police found Rivers car crashed into a building on 20 N. Orange Ave., across the street from the parking garage where he is believed to have been shot.

Rivers was in the drivers seat and was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

As we strive to make Orlando safe for everyone, senseless acts of violence like the murder of Terry Shawn Rivers will not be tolerated in our city. Our Homicide Detectives have worked tirelessly to solve this murder, Orlando Police Department Chief Eric Smith said in a statement. I want to commend all the members of the Orlando Police Department who worked on this case and thank the entire community for their assistance.

No other details about the shooting, including what led to it, have been released, and court records were not available as of Monday afternoon.

Willis was booked in the Orange County Jail without bond while he awaits his first court appearance.
The country will have at least ten defense unicorns and more than 100 companies with a capitalization of $1 million or more.

At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, only 20% of the defense sector was made up of private companies. That has since reversed, where only a fifth of the 500 or so defense companies are state-owned. Although state enterprises are still larger and outpace private companies in terms of total output, everything is heading towards the point where, in a few years, the state will account for 20% of the defense industry. We need healthy competition, dynamics, and a vibrant market to continue improving product quality and increasing production rates. This can be done by attracting private business to the defense industry; we are already on this path.

Ukraine used to be considered the breadbasket of Europe, but now it is its arsenal. We were forced to look for a different strategy because, in the fields where we used to sow wheat, we now fight every day for our existence. We pay an unreasonably high price for this  the lives of our people.

The functioning of the defense sector involves the capacities of other sectors of the economy: mining, metallurgy, mechanical engineering, chemical industry, electronics, IT, logistics, etc. At the same time, it strengthens them. Today, Ukraine produces almost the entire range of weapons and military equipment, from armored personnel carriers and anti-tank guns to marine drones and long-range kamikazes. A well-developed defense industry will be the engine of Ukraine's economic recovery.

Products made in Ukraine will be in demand on the global market

We specialize in technological developments that save the lives of our soldiers: unmanned systems and robotic equipment. The need for innovative solutions implies, on the one hand, the development of the electronics market. On the other hand, it requires the search for appropriate specialists, particularly for creating, testing, and continuously updating software. Accordingly, IT and technological potential is developing, which will be utilized in other areas.

The defense industry's development stimulates almost all industries' progress to some extent. For example, there is a growing need for highly specialized specialists, and they need to be trained somewhere, so education is developing. Employers compete for specialists by offering competitive salaries, comfortable working conditions, and benefits.

We are already acting from a position of industrial nationalism: "Ukrainian producers - forward." According to the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, at least 50% of the funds allocated for procurement by the Ministry of Defense in the 2024 budget should remain on the Ukrainian market. Our production capabilities will exceed the entire procurement budget of the Ministry of Defense in 2024, so the question is not what percentage of this budget can be kept in the country, but where to find additional funding.

At the same time, we are also attracting foreign partners to Ukraine, which allows us to speed up the creation of production facilities. Germany's Rheinmetall has already established a joint venture with Ukroboronprom to repair and modernize its equipment. The company intends to start assembling the Fox armored personnel carrier here in the near future, and eventually initiate production of the new Panther tank and air defense systems in Ukraine.

We have agreed, in principle, with two top U.S. manufacturers to open a plant to produce NATO-caliber ammunition. Together with the French Turgis&Gaillard and Estonian Milrem Robotics, we are working on developing innovative drones.

We see significant interest, as products made in Ukraine will be in demand on the global market. Today, our entire country has become a defense R&D center. Weapons and equipment are being tested in the harshest conditions - in the most intense and technologically advanced war since World War II. Manufacturers are in constant contact with units on the front line because not everything can be foreseen at the stage of production or testing. Some shortcomings become apparent in combat, and the need for certain technological or engineering solutions is sometimes discovered in the process.

This kind of weapon, forged in hot battles and proven effective in saving soldiers' lives, will be the best in the world. It will not only guarantee the security of our country, but also become a valuable commodity on the global arms market. It is no secret that Russian equipment has been in demand until recently. Ukraine has every chance to take over these positions.

The proceeds will become a resource for rebuilding the country and the foundation for the future. According to rough estimates, out of 4.9% GDP growth in 2023, the defense industry generated 1.5%. We can only imagine how this figure will change after we open exports and attract more investments. It's time to bet on defense and build the arsenal of the free world in Ukraine.

The text was published in the special issue of NV magazine, The World Ahead 2024, under the exclusive license of The Economist. Reproduction is prohibited.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick on Monday accused Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft of violating state law by refusing to turn over the cyber security reviews of the states local election authorities.

Fitzpatrick released a scathing audit report on Ashcrofts office that was highly critical of his fellow Republicans decision last year to leave a national system designed to improve the accuracy of voting rolls called the Electronic Information Registration Information Center, or ERIC.

Fitzpatricks audit, which raises questions about Ashcrofts handling of the Missouri Secretary of States Office, gave the office a rating of fair, the second-lowest possible audit rating. The audits release comes as Ashcroft runs for governor.

A formal response from Ashcroft included in the audit report pushes back on its findings, arguing that sharing the actual cyber security reports with Fitzpatricks office risks revealing confidential information. The response also argued that ERIC refused to make reforms to its system and leaving the program was a business decision.

A spokesperson for Ashcroft did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The audit alleges Ashcrofts office refused to provide Fitzpatrick with copies of the cyber security reviews of Missouris 116 local election authorities in violation of a state law that requires the office to submit the reviews to the state Auditors Office. The Missouri General Assembly in 2022 passed a sweeping election-related law that, among other provisions, required the MIssouri Secretary of States Office and local election authorities to receive cybersecurity reviews every two years.

While Fitzpatricks office did not seek legal action against Ashcroft, his office determined that most of the reviews had been completed.

The law clearly provides our audit staff with the authority to receive and review this information, and its disappointing the Secretary of States Office stood in the way of our efforts to perform a thorough analysis of how the new cyber security reviews have been implemented, Fitzpatrick said in a statement.

Fitzpatricks audit also faults how Ashcroft left ERIC without a proper replacement, saying that it will impede local election authorities from being able to correct inaccurate voter records. In St. Louis County, for example, the audit found that the national system allowed election authorities to remove thousands of deceased voters from their voter rolls.

I can respect why Secretary Ashcroft felt it was necessary to end the relationship with ERIC, but that doesnt negate the responsibility to have a plan to replace that data so the office has a reliable way to ensure we dont have dead voters registered in Missouri as we enter a major election year, Fitzpatrick said.

Ashcrofts criticism of the system, and his decision to leave, came amid former President Donald Trumps false claims of fraud in the 2020 presidential election.

Ashcroft has alleged that the system had refused to require states to participate in multi-state efforts to address voter fraud and had focused on adding names to voter rolls by requiring solicitations to individuals who had already had the opportunity to register.

But Fitzpatrick, in his audit, found that Ashcroft did not fully evaluate the systems benefits before terminating the states membership and did not consult with local election authorities about leaving the system.

After leaving the system, Fitzpatrick said, the process of maintaining accurate voting rolls has been less efficient and more tedious on county clerks.

The audit also found that Ashcrofts office did not have adequate financial controls and procedures over accounts receivable, resulting in an account that was sent to the Missouri Office of Administration with misstatements for the fiscal year ending in 2022.

If the misstatement had not been identified, the audit found, one of the funds would have been overstated by nearly $10 million.
(Bloomberg) -- A double taxation treaty with Hong Kong proposed by Australias Chamber of Commerce in the finance hub could save the countrys expatriates from paying tax in two places.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Currently, under Australias tax residency rules, anyone who spends more than 183 days a year inside the country will need to pay Australian tax  no matter where they live the rest of the year. The Australian government is consulting on changes to its individual tax residency rules that could see those who spend shorter stretches of time in their home country also targeted.

The chamber is calling on Hong Kong to negotiate a deal so that Australians wouldnt be targeted by two separate tax authorities. Singapore, the US and mainland China have similar deals in place.

We urge the government to continue to maintain dialogue with the Australian government offering to start negotiations on a Double Tax Agreement to provide greater incentives for Australian businesses to look to Hong Kong as a base, the chamber wrote in a three-page letter of high-level recommendations to the Hong Kong government.

Hong Kong has been seeking to restore its status as a global financial hub after its reputation was dealt a blow by strict Covid restrictions, anti-government protests in 2019 and Chinas imposition of a sweeping national security law.

Josephine Orgill, chair of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, said a double taxation treaty would mean the city remains attractive to talent and this is a key consideration for her members who may otherwise go to places like Singapore, where such agreements are already in place.

Uniquely Impacted

Late last year, the chamber raised concerns over the adverse impact that proposed changes to tax residency rules may have on Australian firms and individuals in Hong Kong, noting there were 100,000 nationals living in the city.

This number of businesses and Australian individuals demonstrates that Hong Kong tax residents will be uniquely impacted by these new residency rules more so than perhaps any other jurisdiction given that there is no double tax agreement, they wrote in a letter responding to the Treasurys consultation on the possible reforms.

Orgill said Monday a double taxation agreement will facilitate investment between Australia and Hong Kong as it provides greater clarity on how tax operates when working across both jurisdictions.

The chambers latest proposal comes before Hong Kongs Financial Secretary Paul Chan is set to deliver his budget on Feb. 28. It praised the governments initiatives to attract talent and said these should be expanded to the food and beverage sector. It also recommended the expansion of an apprenticeship scheme and the prioritization of English language skills.

Hong Kong remains an important market for many Australian businesses operating throughout Asia and its role as the international gateway to the mainland is vital, the chamber noted.

--With assistance from Alex Millson.

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Ava DuVernay has been widely heralded for how her groundbreaking, historical works such as "Selma" and "13th" have helped to move the needle in diverse storytelling.

Yet, with all her stunning accomplishments, the lauded director still does not have an Emmy, Oscar or Golden Globe for directing. It's a complex contradiction that she's learned not to lose sleep over, she says.

Awards don't get you up at 4 oclock in the morning to go do something that on its face may or may not work, she says in an interview with TODAY.com.

"Youre doing it because youre an artist, and you must tell the story," she says. "You must say what you want to say. We must express ourselves."

In her latest project, "Origin," the director does just that: She manages to creatively tell a global story in a deeply moving way.

Adapted from Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Isabel Wilkersons 2020 bestselling nonfiction work Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, which centers on the caste system as the foundational social hierarchy that informs other types of oppression, DuVernay takes on the daunting task of breaking down an academic thesis into a full-screen feature.

Enlisting a star-studded cast that includes Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, newly minted Emmy-winner Niecy Nash-Betts and Jon Bernthal as central characters, DuVernay's "Origin," which opened in theaters Jan. 19, is one of many culturally impactful projects that the director is proud of.

In September 2023, the director made history when she became the first Black woman to have a film ("Origin") compete at the Venice Film Festival. At a press conference tied to the event, she revealed that she'd previously been advised not to apply because she "won't get in."

But Origin, which has been trumpeted as powerful and artful, still joins her long list of previous projects with few to no nominations for her work as a director.

DuVernays shows Queen Sugar and Colin in Black & White garnered zero Emmy or Golden Globe nominations. Her 2018 fantasy film, A Wrinkle In Time, which made DuVernay the first African American woman to direct a live-action movie with a $100 million budget, was shut out of the Golden Globes and Oscars. 13th also received zero Golden Globe nominations, but did get an Oscar nod for documentary feature, landing DuVernay two Emmys wins for outstanding documentary or nonfiction special and outstanding writing for a nonfiction program.

And then there's Selma, one of her most celebrated and inspiring films about Martin Luther King Jr.'s campaign to secure equal voting rights by organizing a march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, in 1965. It received four Golden Globes and two Oscar nominations for non-director categories, but only won for best song at each awards show.

Meanwhile, her poignant 2019 Netflix series, When They See Us, which captured the true story of the now exonerated Central Park Five, was shut out of the Golden Globes, but received 16 Emmy nominations. The series ended up taking home two awards: a Primetime Emmy for Jharrel Jerome for outstanding lead actor in a limited or anthology series and a Creative Emmy for casting.

Now, more than three years later, her latest project Origin, has been similarly shut out of the award show circuit, receiving no nods from the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards or SAG Awards, among others. (Oscar nominations are announced Jan. 23 with "Origin" as a potential hopeful in the race.)

During award show season, DuVernay has been vocal about "Origin" being passed over for major nominations. On Dec. 11, the day Golden Globe nominations were announced, Ellis-Taylor went to a local theater and passed out the movies flyers to remind herself what matters, DuVernay said on Instagram the following month.

I wish she didnt have to do this to remind herself. I wish she was at the Globes or SAG Awards or Critics Choice or the other nominations that didnt come, wrote DuVernay on Instagram Jan. 3.

DuVernay, who serves on the Academys board of governors directors branch, has previously said that critiquing awards considerations and wins go beyond ego.

"Unfortunately, these shiny things matter to those who finance, greenlight, produce, distribute and market our projects," she explained on X, formerly know as Twitter, in 2021.

The post came amid the #TimesUpGlobes campaign, highlighting the fact that the award show's voting body, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, did not have a single Black member. But its message rings true today.

DuVernay primarily funded Origin through investments from philanthropists and foundations, not Hollywood studios, The Washington Post reported.

Historically, impactful projects by Black people have gone largely unrecognized at the premier award shows, and there are currently no Black filmmakers whove won an Oscar for directing.

When it comes to Emmys and Golden Globes, the lack of Black filmmakers nominated or who have won is also concerning. Directors Thomas Carter, Eric Laneuville, Paris Barclay, Spike Lee and Donald Glover have won Emmys for directing achievements in drama (Carter in 1991, Laneuville in 1992 and Barclay in 1998 and 1999), nonfiction (Lee in 2007) and comedy (Glover in 2017). On the Golden Globes side, nominations for best director of a motion picture has included DuVernay (2015), Lee (1990 and 2019), Barry Jenkins (2017) and Regina King (2021), but none of them won.

But DuVernay says being shut out of award honors does not negate one's body of work.

At the end of the day, we think about James Earl Jones and Ruby Dee and Diahann Carroll and Rosalind Cash and all of our greats  James Baldwin, Lorraine Hansberry  were not talking about the awards that they have. Were talking about what they gave us. What they told us. What they shared with us, she tells TODAY.com.

DuVernay admits that being nominated and appreciated for her work is still meaningful to her as a creative, but she's quick to note that it shouldn't always hold the most value.

"In these modern times in our industry, sometimes I have been guilty of losing sight of that because you get caught up in the drama of the awards and the high test scores and the all of that," she says.

"The real thing is how people feel after they watch it, what they remember, what becomes a part of them, the images that they talk about," she continues, adding that it's the "people who come up to me after screenings with tears in their eyes or smiles on their faces or texted me and said, 'Im still thinking about this four days later,'" that really moves her.

It's also worth noting that DuVernay, an alternate board member for the Directors Guild of America, has won directing awards from outside of the big three aforementioned award shows, including the Critics' Choice Documentry Awards, the African-American Film Critics Association and the Black Reel Awards. She, along with her multi-platform arts and social impact collective Array, have also won Peabodys Institutional Award, and she's taken home a visionary award from American Black Film Festival.

As award show season comes to a close, the accomplished director says she welcomes both mainstream recognition and the public's opinion with open arms.

"Its definitely two things can be true at once," she tells TODAY.com. "(Maya) Angelou said it really well, she said, 'Its beautiful to be embraced.' And so yes, you want to be embraced by all the award shows, but you mostly want to be embraced by the people who watch and thats what were on the precipice of. ... And so its exciting to me."

Still, and DuVernay would agree, nothing is as exciting as leaving a lasting and meaningful impression.

"Having been nominated before and understanding how that feels, it is a very beautiful feeling," she says. "Also beautiful is the feeling of a real sense of accomplishment in creating something that I feel contributes to my canon of work. When Im no longer here, I am proud to be able to say I was the author of this film, and that we made this film together. And that looms large for me, and that happens regardless of what else is attached to the film, or what group of people deem it worthy."

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The absence of a region-wide and Central Asian-controlled coordinating institution leaves the region vulnerable to pressures from its major neighbors, Russia and China. To be effective, such an institution must be legitimized by an international agreement or treaty. The Central Asian states Nuclear Free Zone agreement meets this criterion and has been signed by China and Russia, but not by the U.S., the UK, or France. If the U.S. were to join this pact, the Central Asians will use it as an umbrella beneath which they can erect the security and economic arrangements they so desperately need.

BACKGROUND: Central Asia remains one of the few world regions without its own internally managed institutions for coordination and mutual cooperation. Never mind such impressive and admired models as ASEAN or the Nordic Council. Central Asia lags behind even the Caribbean islands and the Sahel-Saharan States in its institutionalization.

The Central Asian countries pay a big price for this, and so does the U.S. In the absence of internally controlled region-wide institutions, Central Asia is being organized by outside powers. The first of these was Central Asia Plus Japan, established in 2002 by Japan. This was followed by similar arrangements by Korea, the European Union and, in 2015, by the United States with its C5+1. Putin created his Eurasian Economic Union to institutionalize Moscows leverage over the Central Asian economies, and now China has launched its own ambitious joint body with the five formerly Soviet states of Central Asia. Turkey, too, joined this list, with its Organization of Turkic States.

Each of these entities may serves a useful function but none is controlled by the Central Asians themselves. This puts them as a region at a serious disadvantage in many areas, not least business and investments. The absence of region-wide border regimens, common visas, tax policies, communications, and news networks discourages both outside investors and domestic entrepreneurs.

Especially notable is the absence of regionally-based and managed security arrangements. This invites divide and conquer tactics from major powers, West as well as East. All of the external powers have played this card, adroitly and persistently. The U.S.s method has been to reward those countries that State Department bureaucrats deem relatively democratic and to punish those that the same offices judge to be lagging.

IMPLICATIONS: So why havent the Central Asians themselves filled this glaring institutional vacuum? The fact is, they did, and proved to be too successful at it. Back in the 1990s they created the Central Asia Economic Union. Besides economic issues, this regionally structured body dealt with transport, communications and even security. So successful was it that Putin asked to join, first as an observer and then as a member. In the absence of any backing from the West, the Central Asians had no alternative but to accede to his request. Once Russia joined Putin closed the body down and created on its ruins his own Eurasian Economic Union, which he still fully controls. Stung by having been outplayed, the Central Asians decided not to court trouble by renewing demands for a locally controlled regional organization. Instead theyve focused on developing bilateral ties with as many foreign powers as possible.

Washington has not addressed this issue. Its C5+1, which President Biden tried to revive by meeting with the regional presidents in September 2023, is a useful step but no substitute for the kind of regionally managed organization that every other world region enjoys.

Happily, there is a simple way to move this issue forward, and the U.S. is the key player. Back in 2006 the five Central Asian governments signed a treaty declaring their region a nuclear free zone. Even though both Russia and China approved the treaty, the U.S., France, and the UK refused to sign, In various muddled statements the U.S. and its partners worried that a nuclear free zone might conflict with other agreements dating to Soviet times, that it would prevent the transport of nuclear weapons across Central Asia and, curiously, that it might tempt Iran also to join the nuclear boycott. As a result, there is no internationally recognized structure in Central Asia for post-nuclear affairs or any other common regional interest.

If the U.S., the UK and France were now to sign the Nuclear Free Zone treaty, they would accomplish several important goals in a single stroke. First, they would place the West in the role of supporters of intra-Central Asian collaboration rather than as an impediment to it. Second, they would remove an issue that both Moscow and Beijing have effectively exploited to vilify U.S. intentions towards the region. Third, it would open a diplomatically solid path to further intra-regional institutionalization in Central Asia. Several years ago, at the Central Asians initiative, the UN General Assembly formally acknowledged Central Asia as a world region, comparable to Europe, the Middle East, or Southeast Asia. This simple step by the U.S. would begin the process of translating that laudable affirmation into practice. By creating an internationally legitimized intra-regional structure in this one key area it will enable the regional countries to expand it through further region-controlled and region-wide institutions in such other areas as commerce, water management, hydroelectric power, the Aral Sea, transport, law, communications, and security.

CONCLUSIONS: Even if the U.S. takes this belated step, it will face further challenges. To cite but one example, the very definition of Central Asia has recently changed. As the east-west transport of goods and energy across the Caspian Sea gains in importance, Azerbaijan has come to be acknowledged as the sixth Central Asian state. American policy needs to embrace this reality, first by expanding the C5+1 to the C6+1 and then by building cross-Caspian coordination in all its institutions.

A further challenge is posed by Afghanistan. Like the U.S., no Central Asian state or Azerbaijan recognizes the Taliban government. However, they all consider Afghanistan an integral part of their region and an inevitable factor  whether negative or positive  in the regions development going forward. If the Central Asians had their own regional organization comparable to ASEAN or The Nordic Council they would be far more effective in their joint dealings with Kabul, as well as with such other neighboring powers as China, Russia, Pakistan, and Iran. Even now, though, the Central Asians as a group are taking cautious and tentative steps to test Taliban positions in a number of areas. This process is of inestimable value to the U.S., but for the time being Washington remains at best a distant observer on this issue, as on so many others.

Only if the U.S. puts its relations with the region on a more solid footing can this change. The essential first step in this process is for the U.S. to ratify the Central Asians treaty declaring their region a nuclear free zone. Clear indications from the regional governments indicate that this will empower the Central Asians to take further organizational steps on their own.

AUTHOR'S BIO: S. Frederick Starr is Chairman of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute & Silk Road Studies Program Joint Center. He can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
You might have thought if you watched the heir to the throne deliver a thunderous public denunciation of the BBC over the Martin Bashir revelations  implying as he did that the Corporations failure of responsibility had actually played a role in his mothers death  that this was the end. Surely no national broadcaster could come back from a condemnation by the monarchy in the person of a bereaved son.

The Corporation which had somehow managed to survive the appalling Jimmy Savile scandal would now be in such disgrace that its authority and its compulsory public funding would have to be drastically revised. Nope. What did happen was that an innocent party who had unjustly suffered career damage in the Bashir fracas was compensated to avoid any further embarrassment, and a presenter on the Today programme characterised Prince Williams furious statement as one great British institution attacking another.

In other words, the BBC is, in its own eyes, as fundamental to the nations identity as the royal family. Indeed, possibly more so since the monarchy could be seen as a relic of the past (specifically, the colonial, slave-owning past as the BBC likes to present it) while the national broadcaster is fervently dedicated to staying absolutely up to date with modern ideas and attitudes. That is the key to this. You might think when you survey the obsession with historic guilt and cultural self-abasement that dominates its programming, and particularly its digital presence, that the Corporation is shamelessly biased in favour of Left-liberal ideology.

But there is a fatal difference of opinion here over the meaning of political impartiality. For example, when the BBC implicitly treats that section of the population which resents mass migration simply as bigots (far Right) this is not, in its own terms, being partial: it is defending indisputable Virtue against Evil. It cannot actually see any legitimate scope for argument here.

The BBC is the anointed voice of enlightened social conscience. As somebody who worked as a BBC broadcaster for many years, I can assure you that what appears to be smug, arrogant political bias is truly regarded in the corridors of that extraordinarily expensive new headquarters as a sacred remit to convey the only acceptable truth.

If the occasional scandal or misrepresentation slips through, that is a minor transgression which must not be allowed to distract from the great mission of leading a benighted population into the light. The contempt for those viewers and listeners who believe that there might be two legitimate sides to some of the most contentious issues of the day is palpable. This is why the only possible response to criticisms from outside the acceptable frame of reference (which is heavily weighted toward the affluent and urban) is to reject them outright and effectively deny that any decent person could hold such views.

So the BBC will go on  and on  in its blithe contempt for vast swathes of the country and its insistence that its own voice is, not just correct, but morally necessary. This is in spite of the fact that it is alienating todays audiences with its patronising insistence on leading public opinion rather than trying to reflect it.

Its funding model should now be seen as hopelessly out of line with modern democracy: the licence fee is not a permit to watch the BBC, it is a licence to own a television. This is rather like communist Romania where you needed a licence to own a typewriter. It should be obviously anomalous as should the social condescension and snobbery of the BBC philosophy. But nobody in power  or who hopes to be in power  is going to say that.

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Ukraines Defence Minister Rustem Umierov has said that Belgium will give Ukraine 611 million in military aid in 2024.

Source: Rustem Umierov on X (formerly Twitter) following a phone conversation with Belgian Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder

Details: Umierov and Dedonder discussed the recent developments on the front and the prospects of defence cooperation between Ukraine and Belgium.

"Highly appreciate Belgiums unwavering support for Ukraine. Belgium will provide 611 million in military aid this year and has a long-term commitment to supporting the modernization of our defence forces," Umierov wrote.

He also thanked Belgium for its participation in the "air force capability coalition", in particular the pilot training programme.

Background:

Belgium announced in October 2023 that it will give Ukraine several F-16 fighter jets starting from 2025.

Chief of the General Staff of the Belgian Army, Admiral Michel Hofman, believes that European states need to take the Russian threat seriously and be prepared for the possibility that Russia may attack other neighbouring states in the future.

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Beverly Kinney was a long-time teacher at Princeton City Schools and patron of the arts. She was killed Jan. 11 after being struck by the driver of a Cincinnati Metro bus while in a crosswalk on the border of Hyde Park and Evanston. She was 87.

Years after Anna Dickson graduated from Beverly Kinneys fifth- and sixth-grade classes at Princeton City Schools, she thought to reconnect with her former teacher.

By then, Dickson had moved to New York City, was working in publishing and shot photos for Rolling Stone. She wanted to share her adventures with Kinney, who encouraged Dickson as a kid to follow her passions.

But when Dickson finally reunited with Kinney at her home in Cincinnati, the retired educator had just one question: What are you doing to change the world?

For Kinney, changing the world wasnt about grand gestures or Herculean feats, but simple, everyday actions.

I think she woke up in the morning and asked herself, What am I going to do to make the world a better place? said John Kinney, her son.

Kinney was killed on Jan. 11 after being struck by the driver of a Cincinnati Metro bus while she was walking in a marked crosswalk at Dana Avenue and Duck Creek Road on the border of Hyde Park and Evanston. She was 87 years old.

So far, no charges have been filed against the driver, who had a suspended license at the time of the crash, though Cincinnati police are still investigating.

Originally from Toledo, Kinney grew up in a blue-collar household with three older sisters and an older brother, her son said. Inquisitive from a young age, she turned her passion for learning into a decades-long teaching career.

Before retiring in 1998, she worked as a gifted education teacher at the Princeton City School Districts Robert E. Lucas Intermediate School, where she taught her students to think critically and encouraged them to take ownership of their education.

I think what I really enjoyed about her, even in elementary school, is I didnt feel like she treated us like kids, said 43-year-old Dickson, who was in Kinneys class in the early 1990s. She expected a lot of us. She engaged with us in a different way.

Sarah Burkhart, another former student, said she often lacked a sense of belonging in school because of her biracial background, but Kinneys classroom wasnt like that.

We were all so very different, Burkhart, 44, said of the ethnic, cultural and religious diversity in Kinneys class. But she created a space where we all felt that we belonged.

Burkhart later worked for 10 years at Mason High School, where she was part of a diversity, equity and inclusion team. She said she only recently realized how much Kinneys teaching influenced her passion for creating inclusive spaces for students.

I think that set the example of knowing that it was possible, Burkhart told The Enquirer.

Outside of the classroom, Kinney was a passionate patron of the arts and dedicated her spare time to numerous charitable causes.

She was a longtime subscriber to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and even volunteered as an usher for the Ensemble Theatre in Over-the-Rhine, John Kinney said.

Beverly Kinney was a long-time teacher at Princeton City Schools and patron of the arts. She was killed Jan. 11 after being struck by the driver of a Cincinnati Metro bus while in a crosswalk on the border of Hyde Park and Evanston. She was 87.

She had also been a dedicated patron of and donor to the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company since 2011, the theater company said in a statement.

Kinney shared her passion for learning and love of theater with her two sons, John Kinney said, adding that from a very young age, she would take him to concerts at Music Hall and other performances.

She also integrated her enthusiasm for theater into her teaching by holding performances of Shakespeare and ensuring her students were involved in every facet of the production.

The students would audition for parts, work in the backstage crew and even have a hand in creating the sets, lighting and sound effects, her son said.

Chante Bright, 43, who had Kinney for fifth and sixth grades in the early 90s, said she played a small role as one of the soldiers in Kinneys production of Macbeth.

While Bright said she probably suffered from stage fright as a kid, she remembers the class fondly for how much Kinney worked with and believed in her students.

She was just extremely supportive and just a fun teacher, Bright said.

Even though Kinney dedicated her life to formal education, her son said that she considered humor to be the "highest form of intelligence."

Humor was very important to her. The house was always full of laughter, said John Kinney, now a 60-year-old music teacher at Monfort Heights Elementary. He realized as young as 3 years old that he loved to make his mom laugh.

I dont think she was real comfortable with having the light shined on her, John Kinney said. If anything, he added, she would want to be remembered for trying to make the world a better place in whatever way that one could do that.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ex-teacher killed by Metro bus wanted students to 'change the world'
JERUSALEM, IsraelOn a busy commercial street in southern Jerusalem, Asaf Eliyahu readjusts to civilian life after returning from Gaza just over a week ago. The soft-spoken florist, whose family kept his shop afloat during his long absence, served as a reservist in the 13th Battalion of the Golani Brigadean Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) infantry unit that sustained painful losses during its ultimately successful push into Gaza City.

But despite feeling the wars dual economic and security tolls more acutely than many Israelis on the homefront, Eliyahus support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuthe man at Israels helm the day Hamas attack changed Eliyahus life dramaticallyhasnt wavered.

The only person who is adequate, and the right person to lead Israel, is Netanyahu. Theres no alternative for me. If there was, I would consider it, Eliyahu said from his shop last week. From what I know, most of the soldiers of the ground forces that I was a part of will vote Netanyahu, he added. They love him, they say they trust him.

But such support for Netanyahu is far from universal. As fighting in Gaza passes the 100-day mark, making it the countrys longest conflict since the 1948 War of Independence, many Israelis are expressing growing concerns about government accountability in light of the security and intelligence failures leading up to October 7, the increasingly dire hostage situation, and the economic toll of the war.

It all spells particular trouble for Netanyahu, whos long branded himself as Mr. Economy and Mr. Security. While some, such as Eliyahu, are resolute in their continued support for Netanyahu and his Likud party, many are rethinking their vote or doubling down on their opposition to Israels longest-serving prime minister. His day of reckoning may come sooner than Bibi had hopedeven as he urges the country to first wait out the war.

Going to elections would be irresponsible and would badly halt the war effort, Netanyahu said on Thursday night, during a press conference at the Kirya military base in Tel Aviv. The ones who are hoping for this, and for all the other things we hear in the TV studios night after night, are Hamas and also its backer Iran. We wont give this to them. We will bring complete victory.

Yet many Israelison the left and rightwant government accountability. Crowds of demonstrators have taken to the streets of Israels major cities in recent days to demand that the government set a date for new elections now. Others want to head to the ballot box as soon as the conflict comes to an end. In a December survey by the Israeli Democracy Institute (IDI), an independent research center, 69 percent of respondentsincluding a majority of right-wing voterscalled for new elections immediately after the war.

I always chose Netanyahu and I am from the right side of the political spectrum, but it will be hard for me to choose him again. I want a change, Mordechai Sasson, the owner of a produce shop in Jerusalems Mahane Yehuda market, said in an interview. Everybody should go home, not only Netanyahu.

The relative quiet of Mahane Yehuda, the holy citys largest shuk, underscores the financial pain the tense security situation is inflicting on many Israelis. Where hundreds of shoppers typically brave crowds to buy meat, spices, fresh bread, and local produce, vendors outnumbered customers on the weekday morning of my visit.

Theres a difference here after October 7its felt, Aviel Pinhasi, a butcher in the market, told The Dispatch. The army and the government are responsible for what happened.

Shlomo Nissan, a produce vendor and longtime Likud supporter, also said the government is at fault, adding that he has no plans to back Bibis party again in the next Israeli elections. The army and the security forces do everything they can to prevent attacks, but its not always 100 percent and the situation is very delicate. Its very complicated for me as a business owner. You can see its Wednesday morning and usually packed with people, but its not the case right now, he said. Its a mess. The government needs to take responsibility. They are supposed to take care of their people and the security of their people and they failed.

The economic strain is felt across Jerusalem, including at the First Station, a retired railway hub now lined with bars and restaurants. Day or night, theres still way fewer people here, Salman Mohammad, an Arab-Israeli coffee stand worker, said in an interview. People are scared to go out of their house. Mohammads employers have had to dismiss several staff members, while other businesses in the station have closed permanently.

The longer the war goes on, the worse the economic repercussions are likely to be, and Netanyahu recently predicted the fighting could stretch into 2025. But along with souring public opinion about the governments failures pre-October 7, cracks in the War Cabinet are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

Days after the initial Hamas attack, centrist lawmakers joined with the prime minister to form an emergency government in a show of solidarity. The move elevated National Unity party leader Benny Gantz, a former IDF chief of staff and onetime defense minister, to Netanyahus Cabinet. Together with former IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkotan observer in the Cabinet without a voteGantz has sought to exert the oppositions influence on the wars management.

Behind-the-scenes divisions are now regularly coming to the fore. While Netanyahu used to host press conferences alongside Gantz, the premier now tends to appear before reporters solo. Reports of War Cabinet meetings devolving into screaming matches headline Israeli media.

In a television interview Friday, Eisenkot hinted at the increasingly untenable situation. It is necessary, within a period of months, to return the Israeli voter to the polls and hold elections in order to renew trust because right now there is no trust, said the minister, whose 25-year-old son, Gal, died fighting in Gaza last month. As a democracy, the state of Israel needs to ask itself after such a serious event, How do we continue from here with a leadership that has failed us miserably?

For many Israelis, its Netanyahus continued reluctance to take responsibility for October 7 thats perhaps most damning. Since the wars start, the prime minister has repeatedly obfuscated when asked whether hes at fault for the catastrophic intelligence lapse that enabled the Hamas invasion, subtly shifting blame to the Israeli military for the oversight. In a since-deleted post on X in late October, Netanyahu seemed to criticize the heads of Israels military and security services for failing to detect and inform him of the impending attack. Netanyahu later apologized for the remarks, but the episode was just one in a series of political clashes his government has had with the IDF as the country has uncomfortable conversations about whos at fault.

Earlier this month, a high-level meeting of ministers reportedly erupted after IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi informed lawmakers of plans to launch an internal probe into the militarys failures in the lead-up to October 7. The IDFs decision to initiate an inquiry puts pressure on the government to do the same, which could have electoral consequences for Netanyahu.

If there is an investigating commission, I expect whoever is blamed to take responsibility and resign, said Tomer Bloom, clerk of a bakery in Mahane Yehuda, adding that he doesnt plan to vote for Netanyahu regardless of the probes outcome.

Other Israelis are suspending their judgment of Bibi until investigations are complete. If the commission blames Netanyahu for the failure, then I believe he will go on his own volition, said Hai Noah, a Likud supporter at the market. But, in my opinion, the people of the army are to be blamed because they didnt pass the information to Netanyahu and to the government. They didnt pass the information to the top.

But Netanyahus continued efforts to distance himself from the military may backfire with other voters. An Israeli Democracy Institute survey conducted in late-October found that Jewish Israelis trust in the IDF had actually grown in the aftermath of Hamas attackfrom 84.5 percent to 87 percentmaking it far and away one of the most trusted institutions in the country. By contrast, just 20.5 percent of Jewish Israeli respondents said they had trust in Netanyahus Cabinet.

The militarys popularity reflects the overwhelming support among Israelis for continuing the war until Hamas governing and military capabilities in Gaza are destroyed. Netanyahu said Thursday that 16 or 17 of Hamas 24 battalions have been eliminated in the war so far, but the longer phase of the warclearing the territory of remaining terrorist gunmenhad not yet begun in many areas.

At the same time, the question of the estimated 132 remaining hostages105 alive, 27 deadcontinues to hang over the governments head. Family members of the captive Israelis have been among the loudest voices calling for Netanyahus resignation, holding weekly demonstrations in cities across the country. On Thursday night, family members of hostages blocked Tel Avivs main highway to protest the governments lack of progress toward a deal to secure their release.

The stunted efforts to reach an agreement have also reportedly exacerbated tensions in the War Cabinet. One unnamed government source told the Times of Israel that the ministers had accused Netanyahu of frittering away progress on a hostage deal. In a response to the report, the prime ministers office said that Hamas had demanded a permanent ceasefire in exchange for another agreementa non-starter for many but not all Israelis.

We should stop the combat, negotiate, and get the hostages back, Brenda Donvi, the owner of a boutique in Jerusalems elite Moshava neighborhood, said in an interview. The greatest evil that Israel has is a self-enemy who is taking the country hostage for his own interests and his own benefits to stay in power. [Netanyahu] will do whatever he has to do to stay in power in my opinion.

The growing frustration with Netanyahu is reflected in the polling. A recent survey by Hebrew daily newspaper Maariv found that if the election were held today, Netanyahus pre-war coalition would win just 44 seats in the 120-member Knesset. Opposition parties belonging to the previous ruling coalition, meanwhile, were projected coast to victory with 71 seats. The same study also found significant public support for Gantz, with 51 percent of respondents deeming the National Unity leader suitable for the premiership compared to 28 percent who said Netanyahu was up to the job.

Hes putting himself before the country, Boaz Dargan, a shopper at the First Station, said of Netanyahu. Who would be a good alternative? Anybody who is clean, not corrupt, and will serve the people.

But even Netanyahus most outspoken critics are clear on whos ultimately to blame for October 7: Hamas and its international backers.

They fooled us for quite a long time. We always knew that they didnt love us, but we never imagined that kind of hate that they had for us, Dargan said. We always felt strong here and were shocked by the level of hate that they have for us. Theyre not interested in coexisting in any way. They just want to destroy us.

In that renewed sense of vulnerability, Israelis from across the political spectrum say theyve found unity.

The war is not just physical and emotional, its also psychological, said Tracey Shipley, a shopper at the Jerusalem shuk, stressing the importance of Israeli solidarity. Last years widespread protests and counterprotests over the Netanyahu governments judicial reform plan made Israel very vulnerable because we were not united, and Jews must be united, she added. We needed a big slap in the face for everyone to say, You know what, were one nation, we have to be united and together.

Yariv Guri, a restaurant owner in Mahane Yehuda, also pointed to a shared sense of purpose among Israelis during wartime. Its only the government that tries to split us all the time, he said. Every time there is a war, its hard then we continue. Thats what [the army is] fighting for, that we can continue our lives, so we continue. We are survivors.

Read more at The Dispatch

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A new software service could save Benton County investigators hundreds of hours searching for potential suspects, but opponents say the tool could be used to intimidate and violate civil liberties.

The Benton County Sheriffs Office wants to be the first agency in Washington state to tap into Clearview AIs technology to help solve crimes.

Theyre bringing the proposal to the public during a 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26, meeting in Room 303 of the Benton County Administration Building.

The $7,500 annual subscription will allow the agency to use the companys AI tools to compare photos and video from cases to 40 billion publicly available images scraped from social media and other publicly available sources.

Sheriff Tom Croskrey told the Herald that the new service will be only one tool for detectives and just a place to turn to find people. It would be used in a similar fashion to how police search social media now.

Sheriff Tom Croskrey

It also wont be the only way officers search for suspects, but instead will be part of a host of tools officers use.

While the software has widespread adoption among federal and local agencies across the country, it has also attracted its share of detractors, including several U.S. lawmakers.

Four Democratic legislators, including Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Seattle, signed a letter calling for the Secret Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection to stop using the software.

Facial recognition tools pose a serious threat to the publics civil liberties and privacy rights, and Clearview AIs product is particularly dangerous, the Feb. 9, 2022 letter said.

They suggested the software adds to a growing belief among people that the government is watching them, and could stop people from participating in marches or rallies where theyre speaking out against injustices.

There are also questions about how well the software works to identify people of color. They pointed to a federal study that found Black, brown and Asian individuals were 100 times more likely to be misidentified than white people.

Clearview AIs Founder and CEO Hoan Ton-That has fired back at critics saying that the same federal watchdog organization found that there are more than 100 algorithms that can match a photo from a lineup more than 99% of the time, according to a post on Clearview AIs page.

Approval process

The sheriffs office is at the start of a state-mandated process to begin using facial recognition technology. A state law approved in 2020 requires the agency to produce an accountability report for the Benton County commissioners.

Benton County jail in Kennewick, WA.

Among other details, the agency will need to explain the purpose of the software and how it will be used. This includes designating who will make the decision to use it and what measures are taken to minimize the inadvertent collection of additional information.

That plan is expected to be released following Fridays hearing, and the public will have 90 days to comment before commissioners vote on the plan.

While the formal report isnt finished, Croskrey told the Herald they arent going to be setting up cameras or collecting any information that isnt publicly available.

Commander Lee Cantu said the sheriffs office started looking at the technology after searching for a suspect in California, where they used the technology.

After doing research, they found Clearview AI and started initial talks about the program.

It works by allowing detectives to compare a photo or video to Clearviews database of images, Croskrey said.

Any result would be viewed by two investigators, in an effort to prevent false positives, Cantu said.

Croskrey said the technology would have proved useful after a June 10 shooting at a Benton City party.

He said detectives spent two months sorting through videos and pictures to identify people, something the technology would have made much simpler.
Among the many strange things I noticed about my now-husband when we first moved in together was his habit of showering in the morning. Still drowsy with sleep, hed stumble out of bed and into the bathroom with his eyes still closed but hop out of the shower with a sense of purpose: He was ready to tackle the day.

I, on the other hand, have always been in the shower is the last thing you do before getting into bed camp. Its the moment I look forward to all day, quite literally washing away the previous 12 hours before settling into bed for a good nights sleep.

It all got me wondering: Is it better to shower in the morning or at night? Turns out it depends on what better means.

When it comes to sleep, a hot shower can help you wind down in the evening.

Robert Oexman, a chiropractor and sleep adviser, explained that at night our bodies natural circadian rhythms will cause our core body temperature to decrease, basically telling our brains that its time to wind down and go to sleep.

As we approach our normal time for falling asleep, our core body temperature begins to drop, Oexman said. Just prior to our time for waking up for the day, our core body temperature begins to rise and acts as one of the signals to our brain that it is time to wake up and start our day.

Oexman says a warm bath can signal to your brain that sleep is near.

Showering at night can enhance sleep by augmenting the decrease in core body temperature that is necessary to initiate sleep and maintain proper sleep at night, Oexman explained before clarifying that, although beneficial, the practice isnt necessary as our circadian rhythms will initiate the process regardless.

More specifically, he said, to thoroughly take advantage of all the sleep-related benefits of showering, you should try to take one approximately 30 minutes or less prior to initiating sleep.

Some have argued that a cold shower before bed has helped them rest more easily. That, Oexman said, isnt as scientifically true as many may think.

Studies have shown that cold temperatures activate brown adipose tissue, which has been shown to generate sleep promoting signals, he said. In isolation this may make sense (taking a cold shower or bath), but clinically it is probably not the best practice. Getting too cold prior to sleep can increase core body temperature by reducing blood flow to the skin and promoting shivering, which increases core body temperature and may negate any benefit derived from the small amount of brown adipose tissue that will be activating sleep-promoting signals.

Considering all that, its important to understand there arent really any cons to showering in the morning. In fact, Oexman posited that morning showers can actually help folks get rid of that sleepiness that characterizes just about anyones morning, whether they had good rest the night before or not.

For skin health, when you shower doesnt really make that much of a difference.

According to Dr. Julia Carroll, a dermatologist, when it comes to skin, the effects of showering remain unchanged no matter what time of the day one decides to shower.

Overall, she explained, showering helps cleanse off dirt, oil and other environmental contaminants. It follows then that showering at night will help one remove the accumulation of dirt from the day. Carroll said its really a personal choice.

However, she was quick to note that moisturizing is just as important as showering and should be done after bathing.

Its important to know that showering too frequently, particularly with hot water, can decrease the skins natural moisturizers, leading to dryness and irritation, she said. In all cases, its important to use mild, non-irritating cleansers and to moisturize the skin after showering, regardless of the time of day. Adjusting the water temperature to be warm rather than hot can also help preserve the skins natural oils.

Carroll also said that many people might not have time to properly moisturize after a morning shower, which could be a benefit of bathing at night instead.

People are often short on time in the morning, so they may not do a thorough job, including the all-important step of moisturizing after their shower.

If you shower at night, heed this warning about your hairs health.

Jonathan Palmer, the founding director at the trichology service Hairknowhow, told us, What can make a difference to our hair health is what happens to our hair when it is wet, damp or in the process of drying. Including sleeping on it.

When letting your hair air dry after a nighttime shower, you will likely end up sleeping with damp hair, which is naturally weaker and more prone to erosion than when dry, Palmer said. Not to mention it makes your scalp prone to fungus growth.

Rubbing your head against the pillow while sleeping will make the situation worse, likely increasing hair cuticle chipping and eventually leading to more extensive damage.

This is not normally catastrophic, Palmer said, but it can make a difference over time, especially to longer hair. Sleeping with dry hair is always better for our hair from a hair health perspective.

It follows then that those who prefer to shower at night should make sure to thoroughly dry their locks before hitting the sack.

When bathing in the morning, on the other hand, youll benefit from a longer period of natural dry, perhaps not even needing damaging hair dryers to do the job.

Its important to note that most of the observations made by Palmer directly relate to long hair. Folks with shorter hairstyles can be a bit less cautious about shower times, given that their manes will likely dry before risking any damage.

Stress levels are affected by the temperature of your shower more than the time of day.

In the past few years, various studies have shed light on the relationship between showers and stress. Specifically, researchers have noted that cold showers may lead to a bump in cortisol levels, which is the fight or flight hormone that the body releases when stressed.

Cold showers can help increase cortisol levels because they stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the bodys fight or flight response, says a study by Texas Health Resources. This response can increase heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels in the body, all of which can help improve alertness and focus.

According to the research, a cold shower also stimulates the release of adrenaline, a hormone that can speed up heart, blood pressure and respiratory rates. All of [that] can help improve mental alertness and focus, the survey says.

Hot showers also prove beneficial, as reported by BayCare, a health care system in central Florida.

The BayCare website reports that the practice is associated with reduced stress levels (as the hot water pounds down, our muscles relax, our minds go to a happier place and whole-body tension is erased), improved sleeping patterns, relief from symptoms of congestion, increased blood flow and lower levels of pain and inflammation.

It seems then that the time of day to shower has less bearing on stress levels than the type of shower one chooses.

Related...
Sanjay Shah, 55, CEO of suburban Chicago tech firm Vistex, died in a shocking fall in front of hundreds of attendees during the companys 25th anniversary celebration Thursday at a movie studio stage in India.

A video of the bizarre accident shows Shah and Raju Datla, the companys president, being lowered in a faux hot air balloon spewing decorative sparks when a cable holding the basket gave way and the two men plunged about 20 feet to the stage below. Shah died from his injuries while Datla remains hospitalized, the company said Monday.

The companys heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with Sanjays family and all those who knew Sanjay in both professional and personal capacities, Vistex said in a statement. Sanjay Shah was an extraordinary leader whose presence permeated the working life of every associate and colleague at Vistex. His leadership and presence were truly unique; Sanjay will be sorely missed by all.

An Indian immigrant who came to the U.S. in 1988 to get his MBA at Pennsylvanias Lehigh University, Shah moved to Chicago in 1993 to work for software firm SAP. In 1999, Shah founded Hoffman Estates-based Vistex, which provides business software for companies such as Whirlpool, GM, Barilla and Bayer. Vistex has more than 2,000 employees and 20 offices worldwide, including one in Hyderabad, India, where the accident occurred.

The Vistex 25th anniversary celebration was held at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, a sprawling film studio and thematic tourist destination that also hosts corporate events. The venue did not return a request for comment Monday.

While Shah built a thriving tech business, he was perhaps best known in Chicago as the erstwhile owner of the Trump Tower penthouse, once the most expensive condo in the city.

Shah bought the 14,260-square-foot full-floor penthouse, which includes five bedrooms and a 360-degree view of the city, for $17 million in 2014, then a record for Chicago residential real estate. In 2019, Shah told the Tribune the penthouse deal took nearly two years to negotiate with the Trump Organization  mostly with Eric Trump  and the agreement included the signature of Donald Trump, who spoke to Shah only after it closed.

When I made this investment, I had no inkling of what was to come, Shah told the Tribune regarding the sellers rise to political power.

A South Barrington resident, Shah never moved in or finished the penthouse space, but used it occasionally for social events, including his 50th birthday party.

He put the Trump Tower penthouse up for sale in September 2021 with a $30 million asking price. It sold in March 2022 for $20 million, notching a modest profit for the space after eight years of ownership.

Vistex founder and CEO Sanjay Shah on Dec. 8, 2014, in the full-floor penthouse atop the Trump International Hotel & Tower he purchased.

A philanthropist, Shah started the Vistex Foundation in 2012, which provides grants to nonprofits focusing on health, education and basic needs. In 2020, the foundation-funded Vistex Hospital opened in rural Bihar, India, providing previously unavailable services to the community and becoming a model for its COVID-19 response.

In 2016, Shah donated $5 million to found the Vistex Institute for Executive Education, a continuing business education program at his alma mater, Lehigh University.

Sanjay Shah was a visionary businessman who started a company from scratch and made it a huge success, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who represents the 8th Congressional District where Shah lived and worked, said in a statement. Despite his success, Sanjay was an unassuming man dedicated more to his family and the community than anything else. Sanjay will be very sorely missed.

Shah, who bootstrapped Vistex into an international company that went from zero to $250 million in annual revenue by its 20th anniversary, eschewed outside investment until 2019, when Silicon Valley private equity firm Accel-KKR provided $65 million to further his expansion plans.

Reflecting on his success, Shah said at the time he hoped to inspire other Chicago tech entrepreneurs and immigrants who followed in his footsteps.

I was born in India, and Im living the American dream, Shah told the Tribune.

Kate Armanini contributed.

rchannick@chicagotribune.com
President Biden on Monday mourned the loss of two Navy SEALs who are presumed dead after they went missing off the coast of Somalia earlier this month during a special covert mission to seize Iranian missile parts bound for Yemen.

Biden said in a statement that the presumed deaths of the two SEALs were a profound loss for our country.

These SEALs represented the very best of our country, pledging their lives to protect their fellow Americans, Biden said. Our hearts go out to the family members, loved ones, friends, and shipmates who are grieving for these two brave Americans.

Our entire country stands with you, he added. We will never fail to honor their service, their legacy, and their sacrifice.

The two SEALs went missing on the night of Jan. 11 while boarding a special combat operations craft in the Gulf of Aden. One sailor fell into rough waters and another jumped in to rescue the overboard SEAL.

The sailors were part of a team that intercepted Iranian missile components bound for the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis have targeted merchant ships in the Red Sea since late November in an escalating series of attacks that has prompted full-blown conflict with the U.S. military.

U.S. Central Command said in a Sunday statement that after an exhaustive 10-day search, the missing sailors were presumed dead.

Gen. Michael Kurilla said the U.S. will forever honor their sacrifice and example.

Our prayers are with the SEALs families, friends, the U.S. Navy, and the entire Special Operations community during this time, he said in the statement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Scene

ROCHESTER, NH  For the first time, Joe Biden has more active primary opponents in New Hampshire than Donald Trump.

One of them is Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips. One is Marianne Williamson. And one is the word ceasefire, which a group of progressive activists endorsed as a way to tell the president that his party wants to end support for Israels war in Gaza.

You can veto a UN resolution in favor of a humanitarian ceasefire, but you cant veto my vote, former gubernatorial candidate Andru Volinsky told reporters on a call last week.

Its one more complication in the quest for Democratic votes (which wont count toward delegates) and unaffiliated voters who can pull a ballot for either party primary (essential for Nikki Haleys chance to beat Donald Trump). The Vote Ceasefire effort gained visibility immediately, with supporters planting signs on highway medians and getting profiled by The Nation.

If someone really wants to help the citizens of Gaza, if someone really wants to help change policy, you will vote for a candidate who stands for a ceasefire  which is me, by the way, Williamson told Semafor after a town hall in Keenes public library. Writing in ceasefire is not the way to do it.

Williamson favors a halt to Israels military campaign, while Phillips has called for a negotiated end to the conflict. That stance earned him a protest at a Saturday stop in Nashua, and a skeptical voter question at a visit to the Democratic Partys office here. Phillips said that the write-in campaigners had the wrong idea, and were protesting a Democrat who wanted a two-state solution and a Marshall Plan for Palestinians.

How about voting for someone who actually wants to achieve the very objective that I know so many care deeply about? he asked.

Davids view

The stakes in this Democratic primary are low, and getting lower. Secretary of State David Scanlan predicted last week that only around 88,000 New Hampshire voters would participate in the primary  mostly registered party members, and a small number of unaffiliated voters. Far more unaffiliated voters, no matter who they supported in the past, were projected to vote in the GOP race.

Most Democrats expect the ad hoc Write-In Biden effort to succeed. Phillips, who invested $5 million of his own money in his campaign, told Semafor that a result in the 20s would be a remarkable achievement. The write in ceasefire campaign wants to change that math by maxing out the number of pure protest votes, shrinking the support for Bidens named challengers.

Its a moral stance, and its a media play, success largely dependent on how a protest vote is counted and covered. When the votes come in on Tuesday night, the number of write-in votes will be known before the names of the most successful write-in candidates; the number of ceasefire votes wouldnt be known on election night.

The View From the Biden campaign

At a Saturday house party for Biden write-in advocates, California Rep. Ro Khanna told Semafor that he understood the frustration of ceasefire advocates  and he agreed with them on the policy. But he warned Democrats that a substantial protest vote would weaken Bidens position without ending the war.

Come to Capitol Hill. Come outside the White House and have your voice heard, Khanna said. And if youre more progressive than the president, like I am, therell be plenty of opportunities to make that case to him. I have not shirked from when I disagree. But the way to do it is not to have him be weakened in a rematch with Donald Trump.

The View From Voters

Theyre still sorting this out. At the house party where Khanna spoke, Bobbi Blades said that shed vote to support Biden. I was so glad that he took immediate action because what happened on Oct. 7 was horrific, she said, wearing a necklace that commemorated the victims of the attacks; her niece was a dual U.S./Israeli citizen, she explained, and had friends who were murdered that day.

But other Democrats liked the option of a ceasefire statement. Even some voters who said theyd likely vote for Biden if he became the nominee said that they were disappointed in the president.

I told friends two weeks ago, after two margaritas, that I couldnt possibly vote for Biden because of this Middle East thing, said Sandy Keans, after hearing Phillips speak in Rochester. But Ill mellow out before Tuesday. And Ill be sober.
On the first anniversary of the Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay mass shootings Sunday, President Joe Biden issued a statement remembering the survivors and victims and highlighting efforts to curtail gun violence.

Biden memorialized the 10 victims of the Monterey Park shooting, saying they were killed in a heinous act of gun violence that struck at the heart and soul of one of the largest Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in our nation.

In mere moments, friends and families gathering together in joy and hope were devastated by a senseless, horrific mass shooting, he wrote. Jill and I continue to pray for the families of the victims and many others traumatized by these attacks.

Monterey Park mayor Henry Lo kneels at a makeshift memorial outside the scene of a deadly mass shooting at a ballroom dance studio, in Monterey Park, Calif., on Jan. 23, 2023. (Mario Tama / Getty Images file)

Last January, two predominantly Asian American communities in California experienced tragedies in a span of a few days. At a celebration for Lunar New Year on Jan. 21, 2023, a gunman entered a ballroom in Monterey Park, California, and opened fire, killing 11 people, including himself. Two days after that, another assailant killed seven in Half Moon Bay, California  primarily farm workers of Chinese descent.The shootings brought to the forefront concerns about mental health issues faced by older members of the Asian American community. They also highlighted an epidemic of gun violence, which survivor of the Monterey Park shooting Brandon Tsay  who wrestled the gun away from the assailant  says shows the need for stricter gun control.

In an interview with NBC News, Tsay said that the reality of gun violence burst what he called a golden bubble around his predominantly Asian American community in Monterey Park.

People are really scared, he said. We really see a need to restrict assault weapons, especially the abuse of power and using such weapons without proper training or licensing or knowing how to safely operate a weapon of that caliber.

In his statement Biden recounted that at the State of the Union address last year on Feb. 7, he and the first lady honored Tsay by hosting him in Washington.

Last year, Biden also met with the survivors and victims of the shootings in California, where he announced that he had signed an executive order aiming to prevent future mass shootings through stricter background checks and promoting more secure gun storage.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Biden said Monday that women in the U.S. face a cruel reality in the aftermath of Roe v. Wades demise, outlining the impact laws in red states that restrict abortion access have on women.

Biden is expected to make abortion rights a major part of his reelection argument in the fall.

On Monday, the president began remarks at a meeting with the White House reproductive rights task force by talking about women being turned away in emergency rooms and forced to go to court to fight for reproductive care.

He told the story of a mother in Texas who found out her life and the life of her child were both at risk  but could not get an abortion in the state.

They turned a deeply private and painful matter into a public matter, Biden said of the state authorities. She ultimately had to leave the state to get the help she needed to protect herself and her ability to have more children in the future.

The cruelty is astounding. An affront to a womens dignity being told by extreme politicians to wait, to get sicker and sicker to the point where her life may be in danger before you can get the care you need. That cruel reality is the result of extreme Republicans who for years have made it their mission to end Roe v. Wade decision, the president added.

The task force meeting comes on the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that made abortion a constitutional right before it was overturned in 2022.

Biden said its outrageous that theres a life sentence in Texas for doctors who provide care against the states law and noted that Republicans have introduced three national abortion bans in Congress so far.

Folks, this is what it looks like when the right to privacy is under attack, Biden said. These extreme laws have no place, no place in the United States of America.

Biden called on Congress to work to make Roe v. Wade into federal law  something unlikely to happen given GOP control of the House and the large Republican minority in the Senate.

Congress must codify Roe v. Wade for all the states in America, Biden added. Thats what Im working for. Im working for that law.

The task force meeting was the fourth time the group of senior officials have met. They were joined Monday by physicians who practice in states with abortion bans.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Bidens name wont appear on the ballot in Tuesdays New Hampshire primary.

His campaign has not been active in the state, and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has described the upcoming vote as meaningless in the scheme of choosing a nominee.

More than a dozen other candidates will appear on the Democratic ballot, including long-shot primary challengers Marianne Williamson and Rep. Dean Phillips (Minn.).

And yet, strategists believe Biden will emerge victorious Tuesday, thanks to a grassroots write-in campaign that has been in the works for months.

Joe Biden is going to win going away, said Jim Merrill, a veteran GOP strategist based in New Hampshire. And I think its a product of not only Dean Phillipss failure to launch, but I think its also the core Democrat opinion leaders have all rallied around Joe Biden.

A defeat or a close call in New Hampshire will likely fuel talk about Democrats discontent with Biden as their presumptive nominee. But those involved with the write-in effort believe a Biden victory, while only symbolic, would send a message about the presidents strength at the outset of an election year.

I think itll reflect strong support for the president. I think people realize our democracy is at stake. Particular to New Hampshire, our freedoms are at stake, said New Hampshire state Sen. David Watters (D), who has been involved in the write-in effort.

I think people want to send a message, he added. Really what this is about for us, its the opening salvo in the general election, and we get to send the president out of New Hampshire with strong support.

The DNC last year officially approved changes to the primary calendar to put South Carolina first, dislodging the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary. But New Hampshire state law requires that the state go first, and the Republican-led Legislature was unreceptive to the DNC changes.

In a Jan. 5 letter, DNC officials wrote to the New Hampshire Democratic Party (NHDP) informing leadership that no delegates would be awarded based on the Jan. 23 primary.

The NHDP must take steps to educate the public that January 23rd is a non-binding presidential preference event and is meaningless and the NHDP and presidential candidates should take all steps possible not to participate, the DNC wrote.

To abide by DNC regulations, Biden and his campaign are not participating in the states primary, and they have not acknowledged the write-in effort.

Write-in organizers said the goal is simply for Biden to win on Tuesday, arguing a victory when he was not even on the ballot would be a success.

Democrats pointed to Sen. Lisa Murkowskis (R-Alaska) successful write-in effort in 2010 when she won the general election with just 39 percent of the vote. Unlike Biden, Murkowski was directly involved with campaigning in her race.

Some New Hampshire Democrats began preparing last August for a possible conflict if the DNC changed its primary calendar while the Granite State stuck to its first in the nation law, Watters said.

Leaders of the write-in campaign attended more than 60 Democratic committee meetings and state party events over the past several months, speaking about why it was important to write-in Bidens name on Jan. 23 and how to go about doing it.

Those involved with the effort have done press conferences, media hits and published op-eds urging New Hampshire voters to write in Biden.

Aaron Jacobs, a former staffer for Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), said there will be volunteers at polling places across the state Tuesday with Write-in Biden signs that have QR codes giving detailed instructions on how to properly vote for the president.

Unlike a typical campaign where you can micromanage things centrally, we cant, Jacobs said. The biggest part of this has been getting out to events, making the pitch and counting on [attendees] to be the multipliers.

Bidens main challengers, Williamson and Phillips, have comparatively spent significant time and money in New Hampshire meeting with voters and have been critical of Bidens unwillingness to debate or otherwise engage with their campaigns.

But polling has suggested those long-shot efforts have not yielded much momentum heading into Tuesdays vote. Biden aides are quick to point out Phillips in particular has sided with the president on almost every single policy issue.

A Jan. 9 University of New Hampshire poll found 69 percent of likely Democratic primary voters said they plan to write in Bidens name, while 7 percent said they plan to vote for Phillips and 6 percent said they plan to vote for Williamson. The poll similarly found 67 percent of likely Democratic primary voters have a favorable view of Biden.

A Suffolk University poll released Jan. 10 found 64 percent of registered Democrats in the state said they planned to write in Biden, compared to 6 percent who backed Phillips and 2 percent who backed Williamson.

Biden allies argued the outcome of Tuesdays primary will understate his overall support in the state, particularly since many independents will opt to vote in the more competitive GOP primary. The same Suffolk poll from early January found Biden leading former President Trump in New Hampshire by 7 percentage points in a hypothetical general election match-up.

Joe Biden will be the Democratic nominee for president. Our campaign is focused on building an apparatus thats going to be able to take on whatever extreme MAGA Republican that the Republicans nominate on here, deputy campaign manager Quentin Fulks said on Fox News.

The congressman from Minnesota has been very helpful to President Biden, voting with him almost 99 percent of the time to get real things done for the American people, Fulks added. So we thank him for his service.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Fifty minutes: so many ways you can spend that amount of time. Reading. Running. Cooking. Talking with a therapist about your place in this world.

Or this: Watching Chicago-based filmmaker Deborah Stratmans latest work of entrancement, Last Things, continuing for three more screenings this week at the Gene Siskel Film Center.

Its a dreamlike account of Earth beginning with the prehistory of prehistory, and how our planet became a planet. Ive seen it twice now, first at the True/False documentary festival in Columbia, Missouri (terrific nonfiction film festival, by the way), and again the other night at the Film Center. Nobody else makes movies like Stratmans, with their densely packed but magically fluid mixture of historical fact, global curiosity, philosophy, scientific speculation, stuff she makes up  science fiction, sort of, though peppered with actual geology  and images and ideas both lucid and mysterious.

This ones about rocks. And yes, you should see it, no matter how that sounds to you.

A cine-essayist as well as a synthesizer, Stratman teaches in the School of Art and Art History at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Last Things deals with Earths mineral kingdom, and clouds of space dust from the solar systems early days that formed Earth. One real-life expert, heard in voice-over, talks about our origin story, told by the guts of old stars. Humankind came much later. It is part of the story, but not necessarily deserving of the usual top billing, since geology will outlast us.

Around dozens of text samples  speculative science fiction by J.-H. Rosny, Clarice Lispectors novella The Hour of the Star, so much more  Stratman constructs a few droll theories of her own. Did human beings get a literal jolt from the stars? Is humanity, the prodigious destroyer of life, a worthy steward of an increasingly endangered planet?

We hear theories of time, relayed by Lawrence University structural geologist Marcia Bjornerud, as we see footage shot by director/cinematographer/editor/sound designer Stratman thats drably realistic one minute (the inside of a research lab, for example), playfully fantastical the next (glimpses of a humanoid race of Star People, appearing like the distant, just-folks cousins of the Star Child in 2001: A Space Odyssey).

If all this sounds difficult to track, well, sort of. But not really. Its a flow, not a plod, and Stratman isnt after conventional linear storytelling. I love the avenues of exploration going on in Last Things, and how this filmmaker finds as much to see in break dancers on a city street, beautifully edited, as she sees in lo-fi visual notions of star guts looking for action, and a new home.

Earths geological history serves as the protagonist here. Last Things qualifies as a new and hypnotic kind of stoners movie  with real stone. The filmmakers finest work includes The Illinois Parables and, now, this latest experiment in wonderment.

Last Things  4 stars (out of 4)

No MPA rating.

Running time: 50 minutes

How to watch: At the Gene Siskel Film Center, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 22-23 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 25

Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.

mjphillips@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @phillipstribune
Throughout his 50 years in Washington, Joe Biden shifted with the winds of his fellow Democrats. Sometimes, that required a policy evolution. He could thus vote for the Iraq War resolution in 2002 and then run against that war in 2008. Chasing after a partys elite policy consensus is a good tactic for political longevity. However, the imperatives of the Democratic coalition on immigration now risk paralysing Bidens presidency.

Especially over the past decade, many elected Democrats have abandoned moderation on immigration. They call for a dramatic expansion of legal immigration and have grown increasingly suspicious of the idea of enforcing immigration law at all. Biden has kept his distance from more radical proposals (such as abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement), but he has also tried to deliver for border-skeptical activists. His administration has consistently ratcheted back immigration enforcement by, for instance, exempting large blocks of illegal immigrants from deportation.

The Southern border in particular has become a major political headache. Biden systematically deconstructed many Trump-era border policies (such as using Title 42 to immediately expel unauthorised migrants). His administration has also lowered the threshold for claiming asylum and expanded the use of parole policies to grant temporary legal status to hundreds of thousands of migrants. As a result of these policies, an explosion of unauthorised migration from across the world has overwhelmed the Southern border.

This immigration chaos has major political costs, especially because it is no longer confined to the American Southwest. In addition to the drip drip drip of stories featuring the humanitarian crisis at the border, communities across the United States have been inundated with unauthorised migrants. That spike in migration has weighed on the coffers of sanctuary jurisdictions like New York City. The fall-out from these policies have caused many Democratic mayors and even some members of Congress to criticise the White House.

The administrations approach to immigration has put its foreign-policy agenda in jeopardy. At the moment, passage of funding for military support for Ukraine and Israel is tied to getting some deal on the border done. In the House, Republicans insist that they will not sign onto a compromise package unless it has significant enforcement provisions. In 2023, House Republicans passed a bill that would build a wall, tighten asylum policies, and implement E-Verify (a program to check the legal status of workers). Many House members would like some of those provisions incorporated into a bigger border package.

Bipartisan negotiators in the Senate are trying to craft some deal, the contours of which remain unclear. Many border hawks are wary about any deal that would not address the underlying policy drivers of the border crisis. For instance, the Biden administrations rollback of enforcement means that many asylum seekers currently have little incentive to show up for their asylum hearings; more money to speed up the processing of asylum claims would not change that incentive structure.

On the border, progressive activists and the general public are at odds. In many ways, it would be to Bidens advantage to go along with some of the demands of House Republicans on immigration. Enforcement reforms to lessen the pressure on the border would show Biden as a dealmaker and could help reverse his abysmal polling numbers on immigration. And yet, Biden could also face tremendous blowback from progressives if he did actually agree to a deal with any real enforcement teeth.

The border also risks widening fissures between the center-left and identity-politics progressives. A longtime eminence grise in progressive circles, the public-policy analyst Ruy Teixeira has warned that Bidens intransigence on immigration could hand the 2024 election to Trump. Pennsylvania Democratic senator John Fetterman has extended his role as a political maverick by assailing the border situation as a crisis. Fetterman may realise the political benefits of trying to pivot away from the administrations border policies. Whether this rhetorical distance will cash out in policy reforms remains to be seen.

The tensions of immigration are putting new pressures upon the Democratic coalition. Working-class communities are less able to insulate themselves from the disruption caused by this influx of migrants, so the administrations border policies could further threaten Democratic standing with blue-collar voters. Long a thorny issue in American politics, immigration has become even more salient in recent years. If Biden stays to his present course, a broken border may break his White House.

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Congressional leaders were presented with a grim picture of the collapse of Ukraines military without continued US aid in the form of ammunition, vehicles and other supplies during a meeting at the White House, according to NBC News.

Officials with knowledge of the 17 January White House meeting between President Joe Biden and congressional leaders Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, Mike Johnson and Hakeem Jeffries told the news outlet that top US officials are predicting massive Russian advances and a total collapse of Ukraines ability to fight back should US aid to the latter dry up.

Mr Biden has requested $60bn in supplemental assistance for Ukraine. That request has been met with bickering in Congress, where Republicans are seeking to use the issue as leverage against the administration and Democrats in funding talks.

Within weeks, Ukraine will run out of certain air defence capabilities, national security adviser Jake Sullivan is reported as having told the assembled lawmakers. That could lead to a wide expansion of Russias air assaults on not just the front lines but targets across Ukraine. According to Mr Sullivan, Ukraine could only effectively remain a capable fighting force for a few months, possibly even just a few weeks, if further US aid was not passed by Congress.

There was also reportedly talk of the effect that a defeat of Ukraine would have on the USs image abroad; countries caught between the US and Russia (or China) would likely rethink decisions to seek closer ties with the US, Biden administration officials warned.

Its the first real sign that the Biden administration is seriously worried about the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war, especially now that the issue of Ukraine aid has become mired in domestic US politics. It is vehemently opposed by some right-wing members of the GOP House caucus, who thanks to the lowered motion to vacate threshold in the chamber have an oversized amount of influence over Mike Johnson, the speaker.

And it comes as lawmakers do not appear to be significantly closer to inking a deal on the issue of immigration and border security, an issue griped about for years in Washington with little action to match. Republicans have demanded that border security and the issue of large numbers of immigrants crossing the border illegally as part of their efforts to begin the asylum process be dealt with before aid to Ukraine (or Israel) is passed; however, the hard-right GOP House caucus has simultaneously shown little interest in addressing the compromise being sought in the Democrat-controlled Senate in any meaningful way.

Mr Johnson himself has cast doubt on the idea that immigration-related legislation will pass the House as a result of the Senate negotiations and has said that the issue will not be truly addressed until a Republican is present in the White House.

It remains unclear, then, what path Ukraine aid has through the House of Representatives. Mr Biden has made little progress in talks with Mr Johnson, and there appears to be little synergy on the issue between the House and Senate Republican caucuses.

The future of the USs commitment to Ukraine has been put wholly into question thanks to the ongoing American presidential election. Though the most vocal skeptics of further US military aid for Ukraines cause have now dropped out of the Republican primary race, Donald Trumps comments about the issue have drawn worried responses from Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president.

Mr Zelensky recently denounced his onetime American counterpart for his frequent boasting about his supposed ability to stop the war within days of his hypothetical election to a second term.

[Trump] is going to make decisions on his own, without  Im not even talking about Russia, but without both sides, without us," Mr Zelensky said, according to the Associated Press. 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.
BrrrFest is back on January 27, featuring more than 60 breweries from across the state of Iowa celebrating the diverse and unique craft beer scene.

Coralville's Brrrfest is back and bigger than ever, celebrating Johnson County and Iowa's exploding craft beer scene.

Iowa's second-largest beer festival will serve beverages from 60 Iowa breweries, the event's largest offering in history.

The 12th annual Brrrfest will take place from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Coralville, offer guests an opportunity to sample more than 200 beers.

BrrrFest is in its 12th year and returns to Coralville on Jan .27, with guests able to sample more than 200 beers at the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For Backpocket Brewing, BrrrFest is a celebration and a reminder of its legacy in the Coralville and Iowa City community.

"[BrrrFest] is for people who love beer, love craft beer, and love supporting local businesses," said Lo Janoska, social media and event coordinator at Backpocket Brewing. "[Backpocket wants to] bring awareness to the fact that craft beer is not just a summer thing. It's a winter thing as well."

"[BrrrFest] is for people who love beer, love craft beer, and love supporting local businesses," said Lo Janoska, social media and event coordinator at Backpocket Brewing. "[Backpocket wants to] bring awareness to the fact that craft beer is not just a summer thing. It's a winter thing as well."

Stay cozy with a well-known and well-attended tradition

Coralville's Backpocket Brewing had a significant hand in creating Iowa's premiere winter beer festival. They approached the city of Coralville more than 12 years ago, using the community's desire for a cold-weather celebration as ammunition.

They wanted to bring the passion for beer to winter's doorstep.

"When Backpocket Brewing opened here in Coralville, one of the things that they said at the time is that there are a lot of festivals in the summertime, but there's none in the wintertime that celebrate the winter beers," said Coralville City Administrator, Kelly Hayworth. "They suggested we do this, so we did, and it's grown from there."

Backpocket was Iowa City's only local craft brewery when BrrFest first started in 2012, as Big Grove Brewery and Reunion had yet to open, according to local beer expert and owner of John's Grocery, Doug Alberhasky.

The area is now loaded with breweries less than 15 years later, bolstered by Big Grove and Reunion as well as Kalona Brewing and newcomer Field Day in North Liberty. Nearby Cedar Rapids also boasts plenty of craft beer options, including Iowa Brewing, Clock House and Lion Bridge.

Brrrfest can now proudly claim it is an exclusively Iowa event.

"[All of the breweries at BrrrFest] are Iowa breweries. When we first started, there weren't enough Iowa breweries to do just that, so we had some from other states," Hayworth said. "The industry has grown that much, so now there are enough. We will have about 10 to 12 new breweries that hadn't been here before."

Craft beer's rapid growth is rather remarkable. Only 58 craft breweries varying in size and distribution dotted the Iowa landscape in 2014. There are now 126 breweries registered with the Iowa Brewers Guild just 10 years later.

More: Mercy, Iowa City Regina schools went on lockdown after health care clinic received threats

Breweries give out 2.0 oz tasters to BrrrFest attendees at a previous BrrrFest.

A blossoming beer festival

BrrrFest is Iowa's second-largest beer festival, runner-up only to the Iowa Craft Beer Festival, held every summer at Waterworks Park in Des Moines.

Noreen Otto, the executive director of the Iowa Brewers Guild, believes that BrrrFest demonstrates the growing craft beer industry and breaks any misconceptions people might have about beer.

"Craft brewing is really growing beyond what people would have thought of as a craft beer five and six years ago. [We are] seeing more styles, options, and creativity than ever," Otto said. "We invite everyone to come and see the huge range of products our members are putting out. You could go into a brewery and get everything from nonalcoholic beer to these delicious fruited sours.

More and more beers have low ABV, and then you have these released specialty, amazing craft barrel-aged beers for the traditionalists."

General admission tickets for BrrrFest are available for purchase and cost $50, which includes a 2024 BrrrFest commemorative glass and free beer samples throughout the duration of the event.

While BrrrFest is an opportunity for beer enthusiasts to try new beers from assorted breweries across the state, it also has an eye toward community. The North Liberty and Coralville Boy Scout troops volunteer throughout and proceeds support the local brewing industry.

"The proceeds from the festival not only stay in the Coralville community to support community events, but a portion of the proceeds also go to the guild to support the larger community around craft brewing in the state of Iowa," Otto said. "The Iowa Brewers Guild exists to unite craft brewing professionals so our businesses and our breweries can keep growing stronger and putting out even better products."

More: An Iowa prof. recalls Israeli soldiers occupying her childhood home. Now, she's asking for peace.

BrrFest tickets come with a 2024 BrrrFest commemorative glass and the opportunity to sample more than 200 beers Saturday, Jan. 27 the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center in Coralville.

Backpocket Brewing's lasting legacy in the craft beer scene

Backpocket Brewing holds an annual breakfast pre-party, honoring the release of Dark Day, a German Chocolate Cake BA Stout.

More: Large-scale brewery to churn out 13 original craft beers and offer patio seating

From 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, beer lovers can indulge in an all-you-can-eat breakfast with an exclusive chance to try Backpocket's latest releases, including Nectaron Dry Hopped Black Hive.

New additions to the 2024 BrrrFest lineup include samples from Toppling Goliath, Gezellig Brewing Co., Field Day Brewing, Uptown Garage Brewing Co., and Bremer Brewing.

Brrrfest is a celebration of community, an annual gathering of friends, family and future business partners, uniting in a love for innovation and creativity.

"Craft beer is always evolving. There are always new things coming out in the craft beer world," Janoska said. "This time of year is a slower season for restaurants and breweries, and it's important for us to all kind of stick together and support local during this time."

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at JRish@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: BrrrFest is back Jan.27 with 60 Iowa breweries and more than 200 beers
Dennis Pyle didnt spoil the 2022 gubernatorial election for Kansas Republicans. But he did come awfully close.

Pyle, you might remember, is the conservative state senator from Hiawatha who ran as an independent candidate against Gov. Laura Kelly and her GOP challenger, then-Attorney General Derek Schmidt. Kelly beat Schmidt by 22,000 votes  and Pyle got 20,000 votes on a platform that ran well to Schmidts right.

Not a spoiler. But close. Close enough that a few Republicans blamed Pyle for cluttering up the race.

So its probably not a coincidence that the Committee on Elections in the GOP-controlled Kansas House is scheduled this week to hear testimony on a bill that would make it much more difficult for independent candidates to get on the gubernatorial ballot.

How difficult? Well, right now a candidate can get on the ballot by collecting 5,000 signatures from registered voters across the Sunflower State. The new bill would quintuple that threshold, to 25,000 signatures.

Pyle, for what its worth, turned in nearly 9,000 signatures backing his bid in 2022.

The legislation would also prohibit independent candidates from simply paying a fee to get on the ballot. That parts probably not so bad: Who wants to see somebody simply try to buy their way into the election process?

Put it all together, though, and the bill sure looks like an attempt to muscle candidates like Pyle straight out of gubernatorial politics.

Thats certainly what Pyle thinks.

This misguided bill makes it more difficult for candidates running for statewide office and takes Kansas in the wrong direction, concentrating power in the two party system, Pyle said in an email.

He added: Every candidate should have the same standards for filing. This legislation empowers the two party system by strengthening their control of elections, which is exactly what the elite establishment desires.

Hes not wrong.

I dont share Pyles right-wing politics  I think its a good thing he didnt become governor. And I dont particularly mind that Schmidt lost against Kelly, either.

Republicans could respond to that loss by trying to expand their appeal to statewide voters. Instead, they spend much of their energy these days trying to make it more difficult for Kansans to actually vote and obsessing over conspiracy theories. All in the name of so-called election security.

The latest bill is more of the same. Its easier to win elections if you can just outlaw the competition.

Joel Mathis is a regular Wichita Eagle and Kansas City Star Opinion correspondent. He lives in Lawrence with his wife and son. Formerly a writer and editor at Kansas newspapers, he served nine years as a syndicated columnist.
A woman in Florida is accused of calling her ex-boyfriend over to her home, then ordering her dog to attack him, police said.

An officer with the Bunnell Police Department was parked in their patrol vehicle to watch for speeding when a white Camaro pulled up next to them, according to a Jan. 15 charging affidavit from the department.

A man stepped out from the drivers seat and ran up to the officer, police said.

He was covered in blood, and I could see both his forearms had deep laceration marks, the officer said in the affidavit.

The man told the officer he had been attacked by his ex-girlfriends dog at her apartment, according to the affidavit.

He told the officer he was with his ex-girlfriend, 34-year-old Jennifer Estella Flores, for eight years, and even lived with her about three years ago, but they had broken up, police said. He said he would still go over to her apartment sometimes to mess around, and on this day she had called him to come over.

When he got there, he stripped down to his underwear until she started bringing up his other relationships as she joined him on the bed, according to the affidavit.

He said Flores appeared drunk, and she started arguing with him before throwing his clothes into the bathroom, police said.

He wanted to leave, and as he went to grab his clothes Flores grabbed the gold chain around his neck and pulled, choking him, according to the affidavit.

Flores then let go and took off her shirt, demanding that he hit her so she could (also) have bruises, the man said to police.

He grabbed his clothes and pushed her aside as he tried to leave the apartment, at which point she told her dog to get him, he told police.

At that time, both were in the living room where she grabbed him again, unknown how, and the (dog) began attacking his arms and legs, according to the affidavit.

The ex-boyfriend was able to escape and drove until he saw an officer to ask for help, police said.

When officers arrived at the apartment, they saw blood splatter on the door, according to the affidavit.

Flores was found inside wrapped in a blanket, police said, and there was rubbing alcohol on the floor near a pool of blood in the living room.

She was charged with domestic violence strangulation, domestic violence aggravated battery, and domestic violence false imprisonment and taken into custody, according to the affidavit.

Bunnell is about 75 miles northeast of Orlando.

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The bodies of 2 Navy SEALs will probably never be found after rescuers searched 21,000 square miles without success, experts say

Two Navy SEALs went missing off the coast of Somalia during a night mission on January 11.

CENTCOM called off search-and-rescue attempts on Sunday, following a 10-day "exhaustive search."

It's now conducting recovery operations, but experts say their bodies will likely never be found.

The bodies of two Navy SEALs lost at sea earlier this month will probably never be found, military experts said.

The US Central Command, or CENTCOM, announced on Sunday that search-and-rescue efforts to locate the two missing servicemen failed following 10 days of "exhaustive search" spanning 21,000 square miles.

The pair, whose names have not been made public, were lost overboard while on a mission to seize Iranian weaponry being delivered to Yemen, CENTCOM said in a statement released on January 16.

High waves in the Gulf of Aden knocked one of the SEALs into the water as they boarded a vessel on January 11, the Associated Press reported at the time, citing unnamed US officials.

The second SEAL then jumped in after his comrade, following SEAL's protocol, per AP, and they both vanished.

CENTCOM declared them deceased on Sunday, but said that operations to recover their remains will continue.

However, according to experts, the chances of finding them are close to zero.

"Unless they were in shallow waters and currents washed them up on the beach, they're not going to be found," Richard Kouyoumdjian Inglis, a lieutenant commander in the Chilean Naval Reserve, told Business Insider.

"If they didn't find them in ten days, it means they weren't on the surface, where they would have been able to detect them via tracking systems," Inglis said.

Joe Buccino, a former director of communications at CENTCOM, said at this point it is "likely" they will never be found.

"The search area is simply too large," Buccino told BI.

Bradley Martin, a retired surface-warfare captain who served in the Navy for 30 years, said it will be "extremely difficult to find the bodies just based on the environmental conditions."

Martin cited the equipment they had, which may have caused them to sink, as well as marine life that could have done something to them.

"I'd say the chances of the bodies being recovered are marginal," he said.

Airborne and naval platforms from the US, Japan, and Spain took part in the "expansive" search-and-rescue operations, per CENTCOM.

They also had search assistance from the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, the US Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command, the University of San Diego-Scripts Institute of Oceanography, and the Office of Naval Research-Oceanographic Support, according to CENTCOM.

The incident will likely not change SEALs' overseas operations

A photo of the dhow carrying Iranian-made missile components bound for Yemen, seen by the US Central Command on January 10, 2024. USCENTCOM

Despite what happened, Inglis does not believe the Navy will rethink its overseas operations, in part because SEALs have extensive training to survive in such circumstances.

"They operate in high-risk environments, and this type of thing happens," he said.

Martin also said he doubts the incident will "change things very much." However, he said it may "occasion a better assessment of risks in the future."

Military analysts told BI last week, five days into the search, that the two Navy SEALs were likely dead, but that their world-class training gave them a better chance at survival than most.

After calling off the search on Sunday, General Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander, said: "We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example."



He added: "Our prayers are with the SEALs' families, friends, the US Navy, and the entire Special Operations community during this time."

Read the original article on Business Insider
An ex-Marine turned domestic terrorist who played a major role in the 2020 Black Lives Matter riots in Columbia that injured law enforcement officers and destroyed police cars has been sentenced to two years in state prison.

Joshua Barnard, 28, of Florida and Columbia, is the first person sentenced to state prison in the Columbia riots that followed George Floyds murder in Minneapolis, said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lot, whose deputies joined Columbia police officers to protect the citys downtown business area in May 2020 as waves of anti-police riots swept the country.

Once a police car was attacked, he took a police jacket out of the car and gave it to the rest of the rioters, Lott said. He was inciting the crowd  probably one of the main inciters of the riot. They intended to burn the Columbia police department down.

The rioters were stopped from attacking the Columbia police headquarters by a phalanx of Columbia police officers joined by Richland County sheriffs deputies. But stores in the downtown Vista area were damaged, along with multiple police cars, some of which were set on fire.

In all, 90 persons were identified and charged with crimes committed on those two days of Columbia riots. Columbia police reported that 24 police vehicles were damaged by broken windows, spray paint and fire. Two Columbia fire trucks were also damaged, according to an after-action police report. Injuries to officers included being struck by bottles, brick fragments and pieces of wooden barricades, as well as heat stroke.

Like many cities around the country, Columbia was rocked by anti-police riots on May 30 and 31, 2020, after a video showed a Minneapolis police officer strangling Floyd, a Black man, to death by putting his knee on Floyds neck while other officers stood around.

Although many of the Columbia protesters were Black, some  like Barnard  were members of white militias and extremist groups. Barnard was a Boogaloo Boy, an anti-government and anti-police extremist group, Lott said.

Rioters threw bottles and rocks at police and deputies.

Several dozen Columbia police officers were in court last Thursday for Barnards sentencing.

The adage time heals all wounds does not apply in this situation, Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook said in an interview with The State Media Co. Monday morning.

Many of his officers carry both physical and mental scars every day. Its as raw today as it was three years, nine months ago, Holbrook said. We had several officers injured, we had one who had multiple skin grafts.

The incident was so shocking because Columbia is a capital city, and we pride ourselves on us protecting people who are exercising their right to protest, Holbrook said. We see it all the time, and after those two days of rioting, we had 60 days in a row of protests. We showed up every day, and we protected everybody who was there to protest, and there was not one single incident.

Investigations showed that Barnard was one of the leaders in the planning and execution of chaos and causing personal injury, Holbrook said.

It was unclear why it took more than three years to prosecute Barnard. Byron Gipson, 5th Circuit solicitor, could not be reached Monday morning.

Charges against Barnard, who pleaded guilty late last week before state Judge Daniel Coble, included rioting, sexual exploitation of a minor, breaking into a motor vehicle, theft and possession of a controlled substance, according to court records.

Lott said Barnard had more than 3,000 sexually explicit images of minor children on his cell phone and used military tactics he had learned in the military to help incite the riot.

Aimee Zmroczek, Barnards lawyer, had asked for probation. She said Monday in an interview that her client was proud of America, but not proud of what the police had done to George Floyd.

He fell into the political climate of good intentions, but wrong actions, said Zmroczek, who confirmed Barnard is an ex-Marine.

Lott said Barnard was an insult to the Marines and anybody who ever wore the uniform. He took an oath to defend this country against all enemies foreign and domestic and he turned into a domestic terrorist. He violated that oath. 

This story will be updated.
The post-World War II growth and massive government subsidization of Americas suburbs is an often-told tale. But in his new book Disillusioned, education journalist Benjamin Herold offers a grim, cautionary afterword for the 21st Century.

Staring down the nearly 80-year history of modern suburbia, Herold finds that the effort produced mostly disposable communities across the country. While they served their first few sets of residents  his family included  they have failed to deliver the promise of the American Dream to the families of color who followed. Case in point: He notes that in the Lovejoy Independent School District north of Dallas, where his reporting takes him, Black mortgage loan applications are now denied at a rate 23 percentage points higher than those of white applicants with similar incomes.

And while many families sought suburban homes in large part for their superior schools, even that isnt a given anymore, he finds  especially if youre not white or born in the U.S.A. Instead of an educational upgrade, he reports, many families now find troubled, underfunded schools, intractable bureaucracies, teachers union contracts that make any wholesale changes difficult and, perhaps worst of all, maddening discrimination in the very place where theyd sought refuge.

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A longtime Education Week staffer who now teaches journalism at Temple University, Herold spent four years examining the historical record and found a pattern: As suburbs age, municipal revenues often fall, even as the costs of maintaining infrastructure rise. An entrenched culture of political backscratching and can-kicking exacerbates these problems.

In one suburban district in Evanston, Ill., outside of Chicago, crusading superintendent Paul Goren tells Herold, I landed in a district that had a foundation of quicksand. It was wobbly on the instructional side, with lots of people doing their own thing because that was what they had done for years. We were [also] facing some level of financial doom.

Eventually, Herold writes, what befell so many suburbs was what he calls a relentless cycle of racialized development and decline that took root after World War II, then sucked huge swaths of the country into a pattern of slash-and-burn development that functioned like a Ponzi scheme.

His book, out Tuesday, follows five diverse families in suburban Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles and Pittsburgh. He actually grew up in the Penn Hills neighborhood east of Pittsburgh, and finds one of his subjects just three doors down from his childhood home.

Herold spent years getting to know these families, offering a deeply reported and closely observed account of five families struggles to capture what his family so easily enjoyed.

The 74s Greg Toppo caught up with Herold earlier this month.

This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

The 74: You note at the outset that youre a suburban kid, raised in Penn Hills. Things for you went as they were supposed to. Yet you report that your dad ended up selling your childhood home in 2014 for one-fourth of what it was worth, to a guy he met on Craigslist. Is this the inevitable fate of inner-ring suburbs like yours? Whats at play here? Why dont suburbs work anymore, and how do public schools play a part in this failure?

Benjamin Herold: Suburbia worked great for my middle-class white family and millions of others like us who received guaranteed mortgage loans, massive tax breaks and sparkling new infrastructure, including public schools we got decades to mold in our own image. But all that was made possible by trading short-term wealth for massive debts and liabilities that we pushed off on to future generations. Eventually, the bills come due. Thats what were seeing now.

You write that Americas suburbs since World War II have resembled a kind of Ponzi scheme that has stuck later investors with the bill. So were in the after part of the cycle, right?

All too often, its newer suburban families of color who get stuck paying for all the opportunity that whiter and wealthier families like mine already extracted. Because this cycle plays out over large geographies and multiple generations, it can be difficult to recognize when we take snapshots of a single suburban community at a single point in time. Thats why I followed five families living in five suburban communities that are each at a different stage of this process.

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Its also why public schools are such a valuable lens  we can only really see the bigger picture when we pay close attention to the anger, frustration and disillusionment that so many suburban parents feel when theyve done everything right, yet still have to deal with their children being called racial slurs, subjected to unfair discipline and denied access to opportunities like gifted programs.

Just three doors down from your old house in Penn Hills, you knock on a door and find one of your five subjects: Bethany Smith, a Black woman who bought the place with her mother. That Bethanys experience is so different from your familys seems to reveal what youre getting at in the book. Tell us about her. [Note: Herold uses pseudonyms for all of his subjects with the exception of Smith, who writes the books epilogue.]

Bethanys family and mine wanted the same things: a quiet street, good public schools, homes that steadily increase in value, systems and services that just work. The difference is that my white family got most of those things without paying full price, while Bethanys family had to pay extra to receive declining services, a school district that was raising taxes and slashing services and a stagnant housing market.

Your subjects  almost all of whom are people of color  seem in many ways left to their own devices when it comes to pursuing these dreams in mostly crumbling, formerly white suburbs. What should communities be doing differently to help these families?

Thats the wrong question. Heres why: In suburban Atlanta, I followed a middle-class Black family named the Robinsons. Both parents have advanced degrees, good jobs, rich social networks, and a strong spiritual foundation. Both also unabashedly love learning. Nika, the mom, was pursuing her PhD in public health, and Anthony, the dad, was a network engineer and former middle school teacher who stayed up late each night re-teaching geometry concepts to his teen son. Both parents were extremely active in their childrens schools, volunteering in the library, going to every parent-teacher meeting and maintaining running email correspondence with their kids teachers. And both Nika and Anthony are extremely kind and funny to boot. So for me, the question becomes: How on earth does a well-regarded system like the Gwinnett County Public Schools not only fail to connect with a family like the Robinsons, but actively alienate them, by gradually whittling away their oldest sons spirit, joy, and sense of self, despite the abundant resources, assets and gifts the Robinsons bring with them?

So how can we understand the Robinsons experience through your lens of suburban decline instead of incompetence at the school level?

By 2019, Gwinnett County was nearly two-thirds Black, Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial. But in many ways, the Gwinnett County Public Schools operated as if it were still the early 1990s, when the population it served was still 90 percent white. During the period I write about, this was evident in big racial disparities in school discipline and access to gifted programs; Black and brown children now made up about two-thirds of all the districts students, but barely one-third of the kids the district identified as gifted and talented.

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Above all, though, this dynamic was evident in the districts leadership. Prior to 2018, Gwinnett had somehow never elected a person of color to its five-member school board, which was largely controlled by three older white women, one of whom had held her seat for 47 years, and all of whom were vocal in their beliefs that changing the way things had always been in order to reflect the priorities and values of a changing population was tantamount to diluting the quality of the education the district offered. There was plenty of incompetence, but it occurred within the larger context of a $2.3 billion organization with policies, practices, and personnel that too often showed flagrant disregard for the majority of families it served.

Eventually, things start to fall apart for nearly all of your subjects, it seems. Even the Beckers, a conservative and affluent white family, ultimately give up on the public schools in their exclusive Dallas exurb after a single year. They end up in a private Christian academy in a Plano strip mall. That makes me wonder: Is at least some of the unraveling youre describing just the messiness of life, parent restlessness writ large?

I approached writing Disillusioned from two angles. I wanted to illuminate a big economic, social, and political pattern that we all now live within because America is such a suburban nation. I also wanted to explore the choices everyday families make and the lives we build as we try to figure out our relationship to that pattern. So I dont think the Beckers relentless search for better schools is separate or distinct from the cycle of suburban churn theyre trying to navigate. As with the rest of us, these larger forces help determine the available options, and the choices we make in turn help shape those larger forces.

You note throughout the book that Black and brown students have always had a fraught relationship with their suburban schools: For so long, you write, so much of suburbia had been organized around trying first to keep those kids out, then treating them as a problem to be managed. Yet in Compton, Calif., which is now almost entirely Black and brown, you find a measure of promise. Can you say more?

Jefferson Elementary in Compton is housed in a ramshackle facility consisting of several rundown bungalow buildings with narrow slits for windows that are almost reminiscent of a prison. But what I saw inside Jefferson and Compton Unified was a multiracial collection of adults  including a Black superintendent and school board chair, a Filipino principal, and a Latino fourth-grade teacher whose classroom I followed  who were unflagging in their belief that Comptons children were bursting with talent and deserved all the opportunities and supports the system could muster.

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One of my favorite little examples of this was a narrative essay the fourth-graders were asked to write. The kids had to describe what a typical day would look like if they worked at LucasFilm. A boy named Jacob, whose family I was following, wrote this incredible piece about designing new droids and prototyping new light sabers and having water-cooler conversations with George Lucas. Between assignments like that, after-school robotics clubs, the chance to create a class newspaper, engineering lessons through Project Lead the Way [a well-regarded STEM-focused curriculum], and a class-wide mock trial, the kids were flooded with opportunities to imagine themselves shaping Americas future. And Superintendent Darin Brawley was extremely intentional about this, at a very big-picture level  he recognized that his retirement and his own familys progress would depend on how well he prepared the students in Compton Unified, and so he took that responsibility not just seriously, but personally.

Your idea to pay Bethany Smith, the Penn Hills mom, to write the books epilogue strikes me as a bold choice. Shes quite blunt, for the record, writing that white people are always fucking some shit up, then expecting everybody else to go fix it. Why, among all of your subjects, does she deserve the last word? After the century-long narrative youve woven, is this the message you want readers to take away?

I love Bethanys epilogue. I think its just tremendous. Im so grateful she agreed to write it, and Im even more grateful she was willing to get really, really honest, even when doing so was painful for her and unflattering for me.

A central question drove me to give four years of my life to this project. I wanted to know how the opportunities my white family enjoyed in Penn Hills a generation ago are connected to the declining fortunes of the families who live in Penn Hills now. And I think Bethanys epilogue really helped capture and communicate the answer. But it took me a long-time to actually be able to really hear what she was saying, in part because I had to shed a lot of my own illusions.

The breakthrough came when I finally realized I had to engage these questions emotionally, not just intellectually. And that meant putting under a microscope my own experience as a white person who grew up in suburbia, reaped its benefits and left behind a mess so I could go build a comfortable life somewhere else. Doing that made the book much richer, and that was a direct result of the challenge Bethany issued to me. So Im extremely thankful to her, and to all the families and educators featured in this book who helped create a space that allowed all of us to give as much of our hearts as we felt comfortable sharing.

Disclosure: Benjamin Herold received support from the Spencer Fellowship at Columbia Universitys Graduate School of Journalism. Greg Toppo is a Spencer Fellowship board member.
Good morning, Chicago.

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.

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.

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.

Read more on this story from Angie Leventis Lourgos.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has suspended his Republican presidential campaign after a disappointing showing in Iowas leadoff caucuses. He ended his White House bid Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, after failing to meet lofty expectations that he would seriously challenge former President Donald Trump.

Ron DeSantis ends presidential bid on eve of N.H. primary and endorses Donald Trump

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.

T.J. Gordon waits for a traffic light to change as he walks to a CTA bus stop on Ashland Avenue in Chicago after leaving work at the University of Illinois Chicago on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024. Gordon uses a walking stick to get around, which can be a challenge with snow, slush and ice on the ground.

Locked in: Chicagoans who use wheelchairs, mobility aids struggle to navigate citys sidewalks during snowstorm

While T.J. Gordon has used a walking stick consistently for the past two years due to chronic leg pain, he typically relies on his legs and public transportation to get him where he needs to go in the summer.

But winter is harder, the 36-year-old research associate said.

Edgar Naranjo was granted clemency last year by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, after Naranjo served about half of a 40 year sentence after he had been convicted on Illinois controversial felony murder rule.

Edgar Naranjo was freed after serving half of a 40-year sentence. Critics say his case shows whats wrong with the felony murder law.

For his role in a home invasion, Edgar 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.

Image of Nikko DAmbrosio, 32, of Des Plaines, from his federal defamation lawsuit filed in January 2024. DAmbrosio went on trial days later on tax fraud charges.

Chicago-area man who sued women for badmouthing him on dating site convicted days later of tax fraud involving mob-connected sweepstakes kiosks

Chicago-area native Nikko DAmbrosio made a national media splash earlier this month when he filed a lawsuit against dozens of women who allegedly bad-mouthed him on a tell-all Facebook dating page, describing him as clingy, a ghoster and a show-off with money.

Turns out DAmbrosios dating reviews were the least of his worries.

The land known as the 78, south of Roosevelt Road and west of Clark Street, on Jan. 18, 2024.

South Loop alderman throws support behind new White Sox stadium after meeting with developer

The alderman whose ward includes the South Loop plot where the White Sox are reportedly exploring the possibility of building a new stadium threw her weight behind the emerging idea after meeting with the proposed projects developers.

Chicago Blackhawks Connor Bedard practices during the first day of training camp at Fifth Third Arena on Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)

3 things we learned at Chicago Blackhawks practice, including Connor Bedards pain in the butt obsession with ice time

Nick Foligno fully participated in the Chicago Blackhawks last practice Sunday before they jetted off to Vancouver for a four-game road trip.

Talking to reporters after practice, Foligno was no longer wearing a cast on his left ring finger, which he fractured during a fight with New Jersey Devil Brendan Smith after Smith hit Connor Bedard and broke his jaw.

Speaking of Bedard, he took part in some light skating drills with Samuel Savoie (broken right femur) as both young skaters rehab from their injuries.

The Kyiv cake at the restaurant Anelya, on Elston Avenue in Chicago, is seen on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023.

Review: Anelya, where James Beard award-winning chefs have begun a new Ukrainian revolution in Chicago

When you see the zakusky carts at Anelya, the new Ukrainian-inspired restaurant in Avondale, they might raise an eyebrow. Even with the pedigree of James Beard award-winning chefs and spouses Johnny Clark and Beverly Kim, who also own Parachute just down Elston Avenue, Tribune critic Louisa Kung Liu Chu had to wonder.

The Chicago Rat Hole appears to be restored after neighbors, requesting anonymity, cleaned the impression in a Roscoe Village sidewalk that had been filled in by a concrete-like material, with hot water and a scrub brush, Friday, Jan. 19, 2024.

Fans of Chicago Rat Hole rescue rodent-shaped crater on Roscoe Village sidewalk after someone had filled it in

Fans of the Chicago Rat Hole quickly banded together Friday to dig out the infamous rodent-shaped crater in Roscoe Village after someone had filled it in.

Onlookers discovered that the citys newest tourist attraction  a hole in the sidewalk, with a skinny tail and only three paws  had been filled with a concrete slurry after a week in the spotlight once it went viral on a social media post.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The Senate returns to Washington this week, hopeful they can work out a deal to secure the southern border and provide more money to Ukraine and Israel.

There seems to be consensus on this in the Senate, but the House is less certain.

We have been urging our Republican colleagues now for the last couple of months and before that for a long time to come to the table and strike a bipartisan deal on the border and immigration, said Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.)

Last year, Republicans conditioned more Ukraine money on getting a deal done to secure the southern border.

Without specific language to evaluate. None of us can commit to a deal. Ukraine funding and the border issue are tightly tied and so you cant have one without the other, said Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.)

For months, tens of thousands of migrants have crossed into the U.S. illegally, overwhelming border towns and major U.S. cities.

Now, Senate Republicans and Democrats seem to have worked out a deal to more thoroughly secure the border, plus fund Ukraine and Israel.

I am optimistic that we are very close to finalizing in the coming days a package that will make that possible, said Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.).

But the wild card remains the House, with hard right conservatives and former President Donald Trump urging House Speaker Mike Johnson to reject any deal that democrats propose.

Speaker Johnson has said he doesnt think now is the time for a compromise deal, leading some to wonder if any agreement would get passed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
European Union foreign ministers have reached a political agreement to finalize the work on transferring revenues from frozen Russian assets to Ukraine based on the proposal suggested in December, EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Jan. 22.

"I'm almost sure this will be finalized soon Discussions will continue on the level of ambassadors, but I see that the agreement is coming," Borrell told reporters following a meeting of the EU foreign ministers in Brussels.

He added that the EU aims to officially make the decision before the next meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, scheduled for Feb. 19.

The EU proposed a plan on Dec. 12 to seize about 15 billion euros ($16.2 billion) in projected profits generated by frozen assets of Russia's Central Bank and transfer them to Ukraine.

The plan would reportedly require banks holding the assets to place profits in a separate bank account, which would then be transferred to the EU's budget on an annual basis in order to provide funding for Ukraine. The proposal must be approved by the European Parliament, and all 27 EU member states before it can be implemented.

Western countries have frozen over $300 billion in the Russian central bank's sovereign assets since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Around two-thirds of the assets are held in European accounts, while only up to $5 billion are frozen at U.S. institutions.

Speaking at the Jan. 22 press conference, Borrell also promised that the EU would continue to provide Kyiv with "predictable assistance" and said he would travel to Ukraine in the first or second week of February.

"The ministers agreed that this is not the moment to weaken our support to Ukraine; on the contrary, it is the moment to do more and faster, with financial resources, military equipment, training for soldiers and all Ukrainians need to defend," he added.

Borrell also confirmed that the EU was seeking to reform the European Peace Facility, the current tool used for channeling military support to Ukraine, and create the Ukraine Assistance Fund with an annual budget of about five billion euros.

Read also: Opinion: Seizing Russias frozen assets is the right move

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The recent Arctic blasts across the United States left some electric vehicle (EV) owners in a jam.

Fast-draining batteries, slow charging, long queues, and cars being towed after running out of power were reported from Illinois and Michigan to Texas.

Sub-zero temperatures arent great for EV battery life - neither, of course, are they for gasoline-powered cars which more frequently break down in freezing conditions. New research from a Norwegian breakdown service revealed that electric cars fail less in extreme cold than fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Nevertheless, concerns about the range and longevity of EV lithium-ion batteries remain a sticking point for sales.

A Tesla charges in an ice-covered parking lot on January 17, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. A breakthrough in battery techonology could vastly improve power longevity for electric vehicles (Getty Images)

An Ipsos study last year found that along with the cost, the barrier for many people in buying an EV was concern about the lack of charging stations and battery life.

The findings signal a spanner in the works of US climate plans. More than a quarter of the countrys greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation and to that end, the Biden administration is aiming for at least half of new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030. EVs currently make up about 9 per cent of new US vehicle sales, according to industry tracker EV Hub.

But a recent breakthrough by a team of scientists at Harvard University could help overcome these hurdles. Researchers from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) reported earlier this month that they have developed a new solid-state battery that can be charged in the time that it takes to fill up a tank of gas - and repeated at least 6,000 times.

At the moment, EVs, laptops and other electronics that need energy storage, typically use lithium-ion batteries in a flat, compact pouch cell design.

But the power of lithium-ion batteries, as demonstrated, can only take larger machines so far. There has also been evidence of these types of batteries catching fire.

Last June, four people died after a lithium-ion battery caught fire in an e-bike store in New York and spread to apartments above. In December, a fire broke out on a cargo ship carrying nearly 2,000 tons of lithium-ion batteries off Alaskas coast.

The race to develop solid-state batteries has ramped up in the past few years as the technology is widely considered essential to spurring a nationwide switch from gas-powered cars to electric. Companies including Volkswagen and Toyota have been working on their own solid-state batteries, aiming to get them into vehicles by the end of the decade.

Dr Xin Li, associate professor of materials science at Harvard, described solid-state batteries as the holy grail.

While they look similar to lithium-ion models on the outside, solid-state batteries replace the liquid, organic electrolyte with a material like a high-tech ceramic.

This conducts better than liquid, and its non-flammable so its safer, Dr Xin Li told The Independent.

The Harvard teams postage stamp-sized battery retained 80 per cent capacity after 6,000 cycles, and showed good performance at low temperatures.

It outperforms other solid-state batteries on the market today, the scientists said, after they discovered a new way to make it with a lithium metal anode, which has ten times the capacity of the typical, commercial graphite anodes.

With their new multilayer, multi-material design, the Harvard scientists were able to overcome the major challenge of dendrites- root-like structures which grow from the surface of the anode into the electrolyte and can pierce the barrier separating the opposing cathode, leading the battery to short, or worse, catch fire.

The long battery lifetime - equivalent to 30 years - could dramatically reduce the cost of an EV.

If the consumer spends less money to buy an EV that will really drive global electrification, Dr Li said.

The ability to charge the battery in a matter of minutes also means that it has very high power density, increasing the possibilities for its use.

Its not just electrical vehicles, it could be electric planes which need a lot of power to take off, he added.

Dr Li began working on solid-state batteries in earnest when he started at Harvard in 2015 after stints at MIT, Cal Tech, Penn State, and Nanjing University in China. I had several dozen projects in parallel but after a couple of years, I realized the potential of solid-state battery, and I focused more on it, he said.

In 2021, he and Harvard colleagues created a company, Adden Energy, to license and scale up the technology. A US car company has already tested their solid-state battery and found it to have the same positive results as in their internal testing, Dr Li said.

A few other car companies are in the pipeline to test our batteries, he added.

The US governments Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has dedicated $6bn to building out the domestic industry in battery materials, manufacturing and storage as the world rapidly shifts from fossil fuels to electrification.
Sven Badzak: Murdered in 2021 on his way home from Waitrose when thugs mistook him for someone else

Like many in Britain, I know of more than one young person whose life has been cruelly extinguished in violent circumstances. My brothers childhood friend Sven Badzak  an aspiring lawyer and son of a Tory activist  was murdered in 2021 in a case of mistaken identity on his way home from Waitrose after picking up orange juice for his mum. I remember him as a small child bursting into my bedroom when he came over to play, a cheeky and infectious ball of energy. Today he is the morbid subject of fascination in true crime podcasts. His murder was a surreal mixture of the psychopathic and the absurd. As they were sentenced, his killers lay down in the dock, cackled and booed at the judge as if he were a pantomime villain.

Ill never forget morning assembly prayers alongside the equally ebullient Lewis Ghessen, either. I used to chuckle as he boomed Our Father, half-jokingly half-seriously, louder than anyone. At the age of 22, he would recite the Lords Prayer again while on the phone to the police just before being killed on impact by an express train on the tracks at Harrow and Wealdstone station. Before he died, he claimed he had been chased on to the line by phone muggers. Nobody has ever been held to account for his death.

We live in a country where politicians love to talk about justice  from human rights lawyer Sir Keir Starmer to Theresa May, the supposed slayer of burning injustices. With liberty the love language of the Right and equality the crusade of the Left, justice is just about the only unifying value left in our country. But like many, I have completely lost faith in British justice. Quite the contrary, ours feels more and more like a lawless country where there is no justice at all.

We seem to be suffering a slow-burning collapse in law and order. The year has started with a spate of horrifying stabbings. A 17-year-old boy was knifed to death in broad daylight in Birmingham city centre on Saturday in what may have been a case of mistaken identity that chillingly echoes Svens murder. The country is in the grips of a machete-attack wave as A&Es warn that children are being left with war zone injuries. Knife crime is once again surging, after briefly falling during the pandemic.

Faith in the ability of the police to attend serious crime and emergency situations stands on a precipice. In the space of a week, the country has been left disturbed by two separate cases of officers apparently failing to follow up in time after the alarm was raised about the wellbeing of children who were later found dead in their homes. Burglary, meanwhile, has become a virtually unpunishable career choice for criminals, with someone charged in less than 4 per cent of cases.

This is not to mention the ongoing outrage of lenient sentencing. Every day seems to bring a fresh scandal, whether its a serial rapist sentenced to just 12 years, or a paedophile being handed a community service penalty. All while hundreds of decent and innocent sub-postmasters were hounded through the courts, and some imprisoned.

This steady breakdown in order is paralleled by the abject failure to police the borders. After a hiatus over the Christmas break, the small boats have once again started to glide across the channel.

The Tories ignore the countrys simmering crisis of faith in British justice at their peril. The growing sense that the UK is becoming a Wild West country, its ability to live up to the most basic levels of civility and fairness viciously corroded, is the political dog that hasnt yet barked. But it could well do so soon.

You can see it in the polling: 45 per cent of people have little to no faith in the justice system. You can even glimpse it in popular culture: witness the mania for crime noir, a sub-genre (think Line of Duty) that explores the rotten institutions and criminal underbelly of a lawless country.

In light of this, the Conservatives should think very hard about its weak justice agenda as it pushes ahead with plans to release thousands of prisoners serving shorter sentences early in a bid to ease prison overcrowding. The Government only needs one to commit a serious crime upon their release to find themselves plunged into a full-blown scandal.

Where did things go so wrong? The notion that 14 years of Tory cuts have decimated local policing and that the courts are still struggling to clear their Covid backlog is well worn. But there are also deeper issues at play. Indeed, the whole system seems utterly broken.

There are the ossified public-sector bodies, which appear to lack even basic mechanisms for holding public servants to account. Take the Home Office, where nobody seems to take responsibility for failures in jobs as basic as keeping track of the people who have entered Britain illegally. Or the senior child protection executives who, after being removed from one authority amid a scandalous failing, are installed into a cushy job at another council. Or the bad apple police officers who are almost impossible to sack, and instead sent on endless retraining courses.

Theres the complete lack of common sense in the system. The tragedy of Bronson Battersby  a toddler known to social services who starved to death in his home over Christmas after his father suffered a fatal heart attack  may well turn out to be a lesson in the perils of social workers sticking with process rather than following their gut.

Meanwhile, the notion that judges should have scope to dole out minimum sentences to cold-blooded murderers, rather than condemning them to die behind bars, runs completely counter to justice as most of the public would understand it. So, too, the idea that the country should refrain from policing its borders lest this breach an outdated Cold War-era international refugee law.

Finally, we have become too reluctant to confront uncomfortable facts. Svens killers were black males. When are we going to have a frank discussion about the fact that, while they only account for 13 per cent of the capitals population, black Londoners account for 61 per cent of knife murder perpetrators and 45 per cent of knife murder victims?

One sees the same political correctness in the debate over illegal Channel crossers and negligent parents who allow their vulnerable children to be put in harms way. Justice requires a society to have a strong sense of responsibility as well as rights.

Unfortunately, it may take an even more serious crime wave for our politicians to realise all this. In the meantime, we can only brace ourselves, and bolt our doors at night.

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The professional body representing British doctors working in women's reproductive services issued new guidance to its members Monday instructing them to no longer report suspected illegal abortions to the police. File photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI

Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Medical professionals working in women's reproductive health in Britain are being instructed not to report suspected illegal abortions to the authorities.

"Deeply traumatized," often vulnerable women who need help are instead increasingly being prosecuted for ending their pregnancies illegally, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said Monday.

Strict confidentiality laws prohibit disclosure of medical records without patient permission, even where crimes are suspected unless it is in the "public interest" -- but the new guidance goes further with NHS employees facing being struck off the medical register if they do so without good justification.

"A law that was originally designed to protect a woman is now being used against her," RCOG Medical Director Jonathan Lord told the BBC.

"We deal with the most vulnerable groups who may be concerned about turning to regulated healthcare at all, and we need them to trust us.

"We have witnessed life-changing harm to women and their wider families as a direct result of NHS staff reporting women suspected of crimes, and we just don't think that would happen in other areas of healthcare."

The British Pregnancy Advisory Service said an "informant culture" in medicine meant that too many women were being hauled into court after being reported to the police by professionals they thought they could trust with "devastating consequences."

"The question must be asked -- who benefits from subjecting women to lengthy and traumatic police investigations and threat of prosecution and prison time? Not police, not taxpayers, not politicians, and certainly not our women"

The new rules follow a number of high-profile cases including Bethany Cox who was charged with inducing a home abortion by taking poison and the abortion drug Misoprostol and 45-year-old Carla Foster who received a 28-month prison sentence for a late medical abortion during COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.

Teesside Crown Court returned a not guilty verdict Jan. 9 after charges against Cox, 22, were dropped after a three-and-a-half-year legal process due to lack of evidence.

Foster was freed in July by the Court of Appeal which commuted her sentence to 14 months suspended, ruling that her detention served "no useful purpose."

Both women were prosecuted under the controversial 1861 Offences Against the Person Act which many campaigners and cross-party politicians believe is outdated.

Abortions in Britain are only permitted in the first 24 weeks of pregnancy, with the exception of cases where the mother's life is at risk or the child would be born with a severe disability, and only by an NHS hospital or a licensed private clinic.
Wes Streeting is expected to say he will focus on cutting wastage in order to help the NHS recover - AARON CHOWN/PA WIRE

Around 10 billion a year is being wasted by the NHS, Labour has claimed.

In his keynote speech at the Institute of Government on Jan 23, Wes Streeting will say taxpayers are paying more but getting less from the service under the Tories, promising reforms to provide better value for money.

In the dossier, Labour highlights the 3.5 billion spent on recruitment agencies, could have been used to train more staff and that 1.7 billion had been spent on hospital beds for patients who were well enough to leave, but lacked care at home.

It also points to 1 billion wasted because some hospitals spent twice as much as others on the same equipment, with a further 636 million spent on management consultants.

Sir Keir Starmer's ambitious plans for the NHS include doubling the number of NHS scanners and carrying out an extra 2 million operations, scans and appointments annually - JOE GIDDENS/PA WIRE

In his speech, Mr Streeting will say such funds should be used to reform the NHS, and divert far more money to the front line.

The shadow health secretary, who has previously said the NHS uses every winter crisis and every challenge it faces as an excuse to ask for more money, will say the service should provide better value for taxpayers as well as better care for patients.

Promising to turn around the crisis in the NHS, Mr Streeting is expected to say: I am focusing on waste because I want to give the public hope that the NHS can be saved. The money that is wasted today can be used to get the NHS back on its feet tomorrow. Only Labour has a plan to reform the NHS.

Labour has said that many of its plans  including doubling the number of NHS scanners and carrying out an extra 2 million operations, scans and appointments annually  will be costed by abolition of non-dom status.

But the Tories have repeatedly questioned whether it is achievable for all the policies to be funded by this one move.

Wes Streeting has previously criticised the NHS for 'using every winter crisis as an excuse to ask for more money' - STEFAN ROUSSEAU/PA ARCHIVE

Mr Streeting will promise some cost-free reforms, with further details of plans to allow health visitors to administer vaccines, to tackle the measles crisis.

The Conservatives have also highlighted comments by Sir Keir Starmer suggesting Wales is a blueprint for what a Labour government would do, pointing to the fact the countrys waiting times are far worse than those in England.

Victoria Atkins, the Health and Social Care Secretary, said: We have been able to deliver record funding for the NHS alongside the NHS first ever Long-Term Workforce Plan meaning more doctors and nurses.

By sticking to the plan that Rishi Sunak has set out, we will strengthen the economy, thats how you pay for a strong NHS.

Describing Labours 2030 energy plan as an unfunded 28 billion spending spree which would take the country right back to square one she said: Labour cant say how they would pay for their policies because they dont have a plan and that means less money for the NHS. And just look at whats happening where Labour do run the NHS in Wales, budgets cut and the longest hospital waits in the UK.

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Aditya Verma was escorted off the aircraft upon landing and a security search was launched - DMS/GC/SOLARPIX

A British man who told his Snapchat friends that he was a Taliban terrorist and about to blow up the plane he was boarding has told his trial in Spain it was just a joke.

A terror alert was triggered and two fighter jets were scrambled to escort an easyJet flight from Gatwick to Menorca where 20-year-old Aditya Verma was travelling with friends after they had finished their A-levels in July 2022.

Mr Verma was escorted off the aircraft upon landing and a security search was launched.

The message Mr Verma sent to friends with a selfie before departing Gatwick airport read: On my way to blow up the plane (Im a member of the Taliban), the court was told.

The message was brought to the attention of UK security services after triggering an alarm within the WiFi server at Gatwick.

With the easyJet flight in the air and heading towards Menorca, Spanish authorities were alerted and two F-18 fighter jets were sent to flank the aircraft.

'Since school, its been a joke because of my features... It was just to make people laugh' - MMN/NPZ/SOLARPIX

Appearing in the court in Madrid on Monday, Mr Verma said the message was a joke in a private group setting.

It was just sent to my friends I was travelling with on the day, he said.

Pushed on why a remark about the Taliban could be considered funny, Mr Verma said: Since school, its been a joke because of my features... It was just to make people laugh.

When asked what had gone through his mind when he saw the fighter jets flanking the plane, Mr Verma explained that the Russia-Ukraine war was happening so I thought it was a military exercise related to [that] conflict.

Mr Verma has been charged with public disorder.

Mr Vermas lawyer told the court that her clients comment was made in a private group that British authorities had intercepted - BORJA SANCHEZ-TRILLO/POOL/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

If he is found guilty, Spains public prosecutor is asking for a fine of 22,500 (19,300).

He also faces a bill of 95,000 (81,400) to compensate the Spanish defence ministry for the cost of scrambling its jets.

Mr Verma, who was 18 at the time, was kept under arrest and questioned by Spanish police for two days before being released on bail.

Back on British soil, he was questioned by MI5 and MI6 before returning home to Orpington, south London.

Mr Vermas defence lawyer told Spains National Court that her clients comment had been a bad joke but one that was made in a private group that British authorities had intercepted in breach of his right to privacy.

Aditya didnt put his message on Facebook or advertise it. What he did was the equivalent of making a joke inside a car with friends, she said.

This boy was 18 years old and was beginning a holiday which was a reward for his school excellence. When he and his friends landed in Menorca, they realised they were in a nightmare, the lawyer concluded.

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Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz (L) and Josep Borrell (R), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz appealed for the release of hostages taken by Hamas in the October 7 attacks while holding up pictures of a kidnapped baby and women injured by the terrorist organization.

Highlighting the urgent need for hostages to be return, Katz called on the European Union "to back Israel" in dismantling Hamas at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.

On October 7, Hamas terrorists from the Gaza Strip committed the worst massacre in Israel's history. More than 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 hostages were taken to Gaza. Israel responded with massive air strikes and a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip.

The foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia are also meeting their EU counterparts to discuss the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Palestinian Authority's Riyad al-Maliki is to also attend.

Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz (C) and Josep Borrell (R), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (R) and Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa
Daniel Goodwin was the chairman and CEO of Oak Brook-based Inland Real Estate, a firm he started with a single three-flat building on Chicagos West Side and built into one of the countrys largest commercial real estate firms and one of the Chicago areas larger privately held companies.

Dan was the epitome of demonstrating and exercising all the Judeo-Christian principles of how to deal with other people  he treated everyone the same, said Inland co-founder and Vice Chairman G. Joseph Cosenza, who knew Goodwin for six decades. And he was so peaceful and calm  he knew exactly how to convince you of the idea that he had in his mind.

Goodwin, 80, died of natural causes on Friday, Jan. 19, according to a statement from Inland. A longtime Oak Brook resident, he had been battling a respiratory illness.

A Chicago native who grew up in the North Avondale neighborhood, Goodwin graduated from Lane Tech High School and then attended what now is Northeastern Illinois University, where he received a bachelors degree in 1964.

During college, Goodwin and two fraternity brothers, Cosenza and Robert D. Parks, launched several ventures to help pay their way through college, including operating a student book exchange and organizing dances and other gatherings for student groups.

Goodwin began his career teaching eighth-grade science at May Elementary School on the West Side, and picked up a masters degree in education from Northern Illinois University in 1966. In his off-hours, he began dabbling in real estate.

I was always interested in real estate as well as education, Goodwin told the Tribune in 1986. I was fascinated by the development of property and fascinated by the fact that real estate was a part of everyones life. After some initial investigation, I found that real estate did not require a sophisticated understanding of the field. That was back in the 60s; its different now, more complex.

Inland Real Estates Daniel Goodwin in his Oak Brook office on May 5, 1999.

Goodwin had some initial success investing in some income properties. Some of his teaching colleagues, looking for a way to make some extra money, expressed an interest in joining him. Goodwin decided to pursue a limited partnership structure, which meant he could retain management control while limiting his partners liability to their initial investment.

The first few ventures (in 1966 and 1967) were successful, and the amount of money we were making began to rival what I had been making in teaching, Goodwin told the Tribune in 1986.

With three partners  Cosenza, Parks and Robert Baum Goodwin formally started Inland in 1968 and stepped down as a teacher soon afterward. All three remain on Inlands leadership team today.

The firm began constructing single-family homes and apartment buildings, along with investing in existing properties. By the mid-1970s, Inland expanded into property management, real estate brokerage services, insurance and even hardware supply, and the firm also built its first shopping center.

Early on, Goodwin favored private limited partnerships, which had 35 or fewer limited partners per deal and didnt need to be registered with federal regulators. Inland then became known as a syndicator, which would manage the properties that the limited partnerships would invest in, as well as receiving fees for forming the partnership and finding and acquiring the property.

In all the time weve been in business, none of our investors has lost any money, Goodwin told the Tribune in 1980. Weve had ventures that have not done well, that havent worked out, but there is no property we ever bought that has been sold for less than investors have paid. And with some of them, a good 25%, our investors have realized profits of well over 100%.

By 1979, Inland was managing more than 10,000 apartments, and three years later the firm was managing more than twice that amount.

All the businesses were related to apartments, Goodwin told the Tribune in 1986. Everything was geared around that central theme because thats where our expertise was.

By the 1980s, Inland had expanded to making investments in Phoenix and Tampa, Florida. In addition, Inland began syndicating investment products nationwide with its first public limited partnership.

In 1994, Goodwin founded New Directions Housing Corp., a nonprofit developer that has built or rehabbed hundreds of affordable housing units for low-income residents throughout Illinois. Goodwins lifelong focus on affordable housing netted him the National Association of Realtors Good Neighbor award.

In business, you are always pursuing growth and higher profits. That is how success is measured. But there is also a responsibility to do good when one has done well. For me, that is a more rewarding definition of success, Goodwin once said, according to a statement from Inland.

In addition to apartments, the company has expanded to own self-storage facilities, student housing, hotels and medical facilities. Goodwin helped oversee more than $80 billion worth of transactions, including $55 billion in acquisitions. The firm has founded six entities that have either gone public or merged with a public company.

Goodwin served for 20 years on the board of Benedictine Universitys College of Business  including as chair  and the university in 2015 named its college of business after him. For a decade, he chaired the board of trustees of Northeastern Illinois University, which awarded him an honorary doctorate and in 2015 named its school of education after him.

He also served on the board of Little City in the 1980s and spent a decade on the board of the Illinois Housing Development Authority trust fund.

In 2002, Goodwin was appointed to the board of the DuPage Airport Authority. He was named its chairman the following year and over the next decade worked to retire the West Chicago airports debt and have it start turning a profit. The airports flight center in 2016 was renamed the Daniel L. Goodwin Flight Center.

Why did he do all these (civic endeavors), which required his time in the afternoons and evenings? We had so much stuff going on at Inland. He did (them) because he knew he could do it better than anybody else, Cosenza said. And sure enough, that airport used to lose money like crazy, and by the time he was into it for a few years, it started making $2 million a year.

Goodwin also was a major donor to the Better Government Association and endowed the nonprofit groups annual investigative reporting award in his name.

He was a brilliant businessman, an accomplished civic leader and a generous philanthropist who thankfully saw our good government reform fight at the Better Government Association as an important cause worthy of game-changing support, said former BGA president and CEO Andy Shaw.

In 2014, the DuPage County Historical Museum honored Goodwin with its Making a Historical Difference Award. He also was awarded the industry group Illinois Realtors Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017, and he was inducted into the Chicago Association of Realtors Hall of Fame in 2004.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; and two daughters, Jennifer Blaha and Julie Tice.

A visitation will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, at Knollcrest Funeral Home, 1500 S. Meyers Road, Lombard. A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3, at St. Marys of Gostyn Church, 445 Prairie Ave., Downers Grove.

Goldsborough is a freelance reporter.

To purchase a death notice, visit https://placeanad.chicagotribune.com/death-notices. To suggest a staff-written obituary on a person of local interest, email chicagoland@chicagotribune.com.
Semafor Signals

Insights from The Associated Press, Reuters, and BBC

The News

Cameroon began the worlds first routine vaccine program against malaria on Monday, a milestone in the decades-long global fight against the mosquito-borne disease, which in Africa kills nearly half a million children under the age of five each year.

The four-dose RTS,S vaccine, which the World Health Organization approved in 2021, is only about 30% effective, but studies showed it cut deaths among young children by 13% and could save tens of thousands of lives when deployed broadly, Science reported.

About 6.6 million children in Cameroon, Ghana, and Kenya are slated to receive the Mosquirix jab  which is made by the British drugmaker GSK  this year and next.

While Mosquirixs developer said it can only make 15 million doses per year, initially causing concern over whether everyone who needs the shot would be able to get it, the WHO approved a second malaria vaccine in October. Research suggests that shot could be more effective than Mosquirix  and much cheaper to produce.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Vaccines wont eradicate malaria, experts warn

Sources: The Associated Press, The New York Times, BBC

Experts cautioned that the vaccine wont stop malaria because it doesnt stop the transmission of the disease. The fight against the disease has also been complicated by increased resistance to the drugs used to treat it, and the spread of invasive mosquito species.

Getting vaccinated is not going to replace bed nets and spraying insecticides, John Johnson with Doctors Without Borders told The Associated Press after the second malaria vaccine was approved last year. But stacking prevention measures is extremely effective  one UK-led study estimated that using mosquito nets, malaria tablets, and the vaccine together gives children 90% protection against malaria.

Funding hurdles may prevent vaccine from reaching millions of children

Sources: Politico, Reuters

After funding the development of RTS,S for two decades, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation decided in 2022 not to support the vaccines rollout directly, citing the vaccines high price, low efficacy rates, and limited supply, saying it will instead focus on improving known prevention measures such as bed nets and insecticides.

It added to a number of funding and commercial hurdles that have hindered GSK in producing the millions of doses the WHO says are needed in Africa, where a child dies from malaria every minute, Reuters reported.

While COVID vaccination programs showed how fast development and distribution can happen with enough funding and political will, malaria is a disease of the poor, so its not been that appealing in terms of the market, Corine Karema, chief executive of the nonprofit RBM Partnership to End Malaria, told the outlet.

Vaccine in hand, nations still face distribution hurdles

Sources: Reuters, The Guardian

Health workers in Cameroon told Reuters that many parents were unaware of the new vaccine  which has taken around 40 years to develop  while others were hesitant to allow their children to receive it. I didnt know it existed, one mother told the outlet.

Experts at a briefing from WHO, the Centers for Disease Control, and other organizations said they were engaged in extensive community outreach to spread the word about the vaccine and assuage any fears. We need messaging, we need communication, and we need to use trusted voices, the CDCs Africa division head said Monday.
DOUALA (Reuters) - The global fight against malaria took a stride forward on Monday as Cameroon started the world's first routine vaccine programme against the mosquito-borne disease, although Reuters journalists witnessed few people in clinics receiving the shot.

Around 40 years in the making, the World Health Organization (WHO)-approved RTS,S vaccine developed by British drugmaker GSK is meant to work alongside existing tools such as bed nets to combat malaria, which in Africa kills nearly half a million children under the age of five each year.

After successful trials, including in Ghana and Kenya, Cameroon is the first country to administer doses through a routine programme that 19 other countries aim to roll out this year, according to global vaccine alliance Gavi.

About 6.6 million children in these countries are targeted for malaria vaccination through 2024-25.

"For a long time, we have been waiting for a day like this," said Mohammed Abdulaziz of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at a joint online briefing with the WHO, Gavi and other organisations.

Caroline Badefona, manager of Cliniques des Anges hospital in Douala, said five girls and one boy aged six months were vaccinated at her hospital on Monday.

"It went very well," she said. "We are proud to have this programme in place because it will eradicate malaria in children aged six to 59 months."

In a health centre in the northern Cameroon district of Datcheka, 12 children were vaccinated early on Monday, according to a Reuters reporter.

But health workers in other centres told Reuters that parents had not been adequately informed about the vaccine, and some were afraid to consent to their children receiving it.

Others were not even aware of the start of the campaign.

"The reason I didn't accept is because I wasn't made aware of it - I didn't know it existed," said Audrey Stella, a mother who declined to have her child vaccinated at the Japoma District Hospital in Douala.

CASES RISING

Disruption linked to the COVID pandemic and other issues have hindered the fight against malaria in recent years with cases rising by around 5 million year-on-year in 2022, according to the WHO.

Overall, more than 30 countries in Africa have expressed interest in introducing the vaccine and fears of a supply squeeze have eased since a second vaccine completed a key regulatory step in December.

Rolling out the second vaccine "is expected to result in sufficient vaccine supply to meet the high demand and reach millions more children", the WHO's director of immunization, Kate O'Brien, said at the briefing.

This R21 vaccine, developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India, could be launched in May or June, said Gavi's Chief Programme Officer, Aurelia Nguyen.

"Having two vaccines for malaria will help to close the huge gap between demand and supply and could save tens of thousands of young lives, especially in Africa," said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, at a meeting of the U.N. body's executive board on Monday.

Some experts have expressed scepticism about the potential impact of the vaccines, saying attention and funding should not be drawn away from the wider fight against the age-old killer and the use of established preventative tools like bed nets.

Health experts at the briefing said the roll-out was accompanied by extensive community out-reach to combat any vaccine hesitancy and emphasise the importance of continuing to use all protective measures alongside the vaccines.

(Reporting by Alessandra Prentice; Additional reporting by Josiane Kouagheu and Blaise Eyong in Douala, Desire Danga Essigue in Datcheka and Jennifer Rigby and Emma Farge in Geneva; Writing by Portia Crowe and Bate Felix; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Nick Macfie)
When confronted by a culture war or loaded ideological topic, Democrats often want to win the debate.

We live in a loud media climate. Oftentimes, candidates and politicians feel they need to politicize or turn an issue into a headline. Republicans and Democrats alike are seen by many as pushing an agenda.

But in my years of research and of training Democratic candidates for school boards and local offices across the Midwests battleground states, I found a different strategy was more effective in winning hearts, minds and seats.

Politicians spend so much time debating and grandstanding that they forget what people really care about  fighting for a better future for our kids. A survey conducted in late 2022 by Hart Research, a public opinion research firm, found that when given a range of options, what was most important to parents was that students have strong fundamental skills in reading, math and science. Most parents, regardless of political affiliation, would tend to agree.

According to the survey, parents were less concerned with political debates on critical race theory and which books politicians wanted to ban and more concerned about providing all students an opportunity to succeed, creating safe school environments, equipping students with critical thinking and life skills, preventing teacher shortages and retaining them through promotion, and keeping class sizes manageable. Two-thirds of parents said culture war issues were a distraction from schools mission to educate students.

These findings showed that a majority of parents were less concerned about political infighting over hot-button issues and more focused on making sure that students needs were met and that they be the focus of educators and politicians alike.

We have seen this play out in places such as Pennsylvanias Parkland School District. A slate of candidates ran against conservatives backed by the conservative group Moms for Liberty who sought to make inroads with parents by demanding more parental control and opposing what was happening in education locally. When I trained this Lehigh Valley group of candidates, I emphasized how we needed to be strategic about not getting drawn into a political debate and instead focusing on the issues.

I believe in public officials leading from a place of pride in their local schools instead of disparaging them, given that parents are generally supportive and protective of their teachers and schools, no matter their voting preferences. When candidates talk about their vision for preparing classrooms with the resources every child needs to learn, addressing the challenges but speaking with hope, that is when they connect with their base and make strides toward winning. Preparing our children to achieve their goals from an early age so they can thrive in college and future careers is what we can all find common ground on.

The candidates who made up this slate, who labeled their campaign Proud of Parkland, aimed to celebrate student achievement and show they are protecting what they love about our schools in the face of politicians trying to weaken funding or curriculum. These officials advocated for the strength of our community, the excellence of our educators and the limitless potential of every student. They demonstrated a commitment to preserving Parklands core values and pioneering forward-thinking initiatives, to envision an even brighter future for our district.

As one of our candidates, Chris Pirrotta, said, he believes in having faith in the folks working hard for our kids every day, and listening to the concerns of the community for the betterment of us all. He demonstrated active listening, took in feedback from parents and demonstrated trust for professional educators. And it was this strategy that cemented his victory.

With a localized message of each parents engagement in their schools, the Parkland slate claimed victory. These candidates were 22 whom Rust Belt Rising helped win local office.

Democrats can extend this approach to other issues beyond education.

The debate that Democrats have to choose between fighting for social issues or having a strong economic message that resonates with Republicans is a false choice. We can say that we will protect Americans freedoms against abortion bans while fighting for working families through creating good jobs, affordable health and child care, fully funded schools and a secure retirement. As our Parkland candidates showed, actively listening and meeting voters where they are by talking about the issues first and leaving the politics behind will give Democrats the edge in this years elections.

Americans are tired of division and extremism. They will choose a candidate who is focused on the substance of bettering their lives over political pandering every single time.

It is hard to remember what matters in the constant media cycle and age of political polarization. But if we remember to get back to the basics, Democrats can win in 2024 from the top of the ticket, all the way down the ballot.

Paul Kendrick is executive director of Rust Belt Rising, which has trained more than 1,110 Democratic leaders in the six Great Lakes states to strengthen democratic infrastructure in the Rust Belt. Kendrick served on President Barack Obamas reelection campaign and Gov. J.B. Pritzkers 2018 campaign.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
TALLAHASSEE  Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ended his spiraling presidential campaign Sunday with a four-and-a-half-minute video on the platform X which he ended promising that down here in Florida, we will continue to show the country how to lead.

After spending $35 million in Iowa, alone, for a distant second-place finish behind former President Donald Trump and traveling the country for months, DeSantis is headed back to a Florida Capitol still with almost three full years left as governor.

With his advisors already talking up another White House run four years from now, a dinged-up DeSantis could be looking to revive himself, politically, by reasserting the hard-right pull hes had on the state.

The 2024 Legislature, which opened earlier this month, is chock-full of the kind of culturally divisive legislation DeSantis has advanced in earlier years. And while the governor hasnt been involved much in the session so far, his State of the State address on opening day did urge lawmakers to stay the course.

With his White House vision shattered  at least for now  DeSantis has time to re-engage with lawmakers who share his hard-right agenda.

Ready for more from the right?

For years, Ive had a front row seat watching Americas governor, Ron DeSantis, remake both Floridas political and policy landscape, Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill, posted on X moments after word of DeSantiss suspension of his campaign came out.

Ingoglia, a former Florida Republican Party chair, immediately endorsed Trump, the GOP presidential frontrunner. Like Ingoglia, many state Republican leaders who supported DeSantis  and even skidded through Iowa snow for him  were quick to rush out Trump endorsements Sunday.

But Ingoglia also hinted at more to come from DeSantis.

Although this is not his time, I have all the confidence in his ability and his passion to continue fighting not only for Floridians, but for the greatness that is the United States of America, he concluded.

Rep. Spencer Roach, R-North Fort Myers, said, While I am certainly disappointed, I am proud to have knocked (on) doors in a blizzard for Ron DeSantis and would do it again. He will have my continued support as we work together to keep Florida a beacon of freedom for the rest of the nation.

Definition of freedom varies

Democrats and their allies disputed that characterization of the state.

The Florida Blueprint was never about helping people succeed or bettering the lives of those in need, said Anders Croy, spokesman for DeSantis Watch, a website critical of the governor that is backed by progressive organizations.

It was a battle cry to the far-right to turn back the clock on hard-won rights and freedoms, all so that Ron DeSantis could trudge through subzero cold in Iowa for a 30-point loss.

Croy said its time to reverse the damage those ambitions have caused in Florida.

After Monday's Iowa caucuses Ron DeSantis brought his presidential campaign to South Carolina on Jan. 16, 2024.

Republican-controlled Legislature still in place

DeSantis, though, still has compliant Republican supermajorities in the state House and Senate. And with the governors endorsement Sunday of Trump, he realigns himself with most Republican voters in Florida who polls show clearly favor the former president who won Iowa and looks poised to top Tuesdays New Hampshire primary.

Many outnumbered Democrats in Florida, where Republicans hold an almost 700,000-person edge among registered voters, have clearly tired of DeSantis.

But now theyre in for more.

Many of us predicted this would happen, as his slogan of Make America Florida, is not appealing even to the most conservative of voters, said Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, in a statement.

After all, why would anyone want to mimic a state with skyrocketing property insurance rates and out of control rent? Unfortunately, as Floridians, we will be stuck with DeSantis until 2026, so must continue to hold him accountable and demand better for our state and country.

More: DeSantis dropped out of the presidential race. How long will he remain Florida governor?

Casey DeSantis high-fives supporters of GOP candidate Ron DeSantis during his Iowa Caucus party at the Sheraton West Des Moines on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.

Clock ticking on second and final term

DeSantis returns to a state where the clock is already ticking on his second and final term.

As a lame duck, DeSantis grip on power could easily weaken as his potential successors begin angling for attention.

Among them are Floridas three elected Cabinet members, all Republicans: Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and Attorney General Ashley Moody.

It continues to be an honor to serve alongside you on Floridas Cabinet, Patronis posted on X about DeSantis, while also posting a picture of himself and Trump. Thank you for the fiscal discipline you continue to instill in our state budget.

Other potential Republican contenders for governor include U.S. Reps. Byron Donalds of Naples and Matt Gaetz of Fort Walton Beach, longtime Trump allies.

Donalds reposted DeSantis' exit announcement Sunday. He added, dismissively, Its time to united behind Donald J. Trump and Make America Great Again! This is the right decision by Governor DeSantis.

John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com, or on Twitter at @JKennedyReport.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Governor Ron DeSantis return to Florida, post campaign: What to expect
As soon as I arrived at Isla Mujeres, I knew I was going to experience a completely different side of Cancun.

With turquoise-blue waters, soft sand beaches and ancient Mayan ruins, Cancun is one of the top travel destinations for Americans seeking out a tropical getaway. Located on the Yucatan Penisula, the city drew 30 million visitors in 2022. Its an easy place to visit and offers visitors the most hotels in the country.

A gorgeous beach locale? Definitely. Peaceful? Not exactly.

But looking out to the bright blue horizon, youll see the secluded haven Im going to instead: Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets.

Those looking to escape the loud parties and crowds of Cancun but still bask in the Yucatans natural beauty should consider Isla Mujeres, a small island 8 miles northeast of Cancun. In 2022, Isla Mujeres saw only 20% of Cancuns tourist numbers, which makes it a more serene beach vacation.

Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is a newly opened all-inclusive luxury resort that caters to a quieter Mexican getaway. A personal butler, four levels of infinity pools and even private boat transfers to and from Cancun are just a few of the amenities guests at the luxurious adults-only resort can take advantage of.

Heres what its like to vacation at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets.

What makes Isla Mujeres so special?

Isla Mujeres offers a low-key Cancun vacation.

Isla Mujeres translates to Island of Women, and it is said to be where the Mayan goddess Ixchel resides. The only way to reach the island is by boat, a 15-minute ride from Cancun.

Like Cancun, Isla Mujeres has pristine beaches but with a more laid-back vibe. Think of the island as a less overwhelming, more intimate version of the tourist hub. There is a downtown square, but its nothing like Cancuns party block, which I found overwhelming the last time I visited.

Heres what Isla Mujeres has to offer visitors:

On display is Isla Mujeres natural beauty. The island is surrounded by an azure sea so vivid it looks as if it were dyed. The calm waters invite travelers to spend most of their time there, and the island is known for flourishing marine life  its sometimes called the whale shark capital. If you dont spot one of these docile sea creatures, whose population has declined more than 50% over the past 75 years, there are still plenty of fish and giant shells to see below the surface. Even the resort pays tribute to the gentle giants by being the home base for shark conservation nonprofit Saving Our Sharks Foundation. A portion of each stay at Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets goes to the local organization, meaning guests are supporting marine biodiversity conservation, promoting sustainable fishing practices, conservation efforts and responsible tourism, Erica Doyne, senor vice president of marketing and communications at Hyatt Hotels Corp., told USA TODAY.

As for non-living sea wonders, the island is home to the Museo Subacuatico de Arte, one of fewer than 10 underwater art museums worldwide. Since 2010, visitors have been able to swim among the more than 500 life-size submerged sculptures, which also add biomass to the reef system. If going below the surface isnt your thing, you can book a tour by glass-bottom boat.

Though the most popular of ancient Mayan temples, Chichen-Itza, is on the peninsula, Isla Mujeres has its share of cultural and historical sites. Visitors can make their way to the Mayan Temple of Ixchel, perched atop a striking seaside cliff in Punta Sur on the most southern point of the island, a short distance from the resort. On the mornings of the new year, Isla Mujeres residents gather here to greet the first rays of sunlight.

What is it like to stay at Impressions Isla Mujeres?

The ocean is the centerpiece of Impression Isla Mujeres.

Relaxing and recharging are the focal points of the adults-only resort, which opened in 2023 as the second property in the Impression by Secrets brand, run by World of Hyatt. You can skip the front desk; check-in is done on the boat. Upon arrival at the dock, guests are greeted with a welcome drink and their personal butler, who is easily reachable via WhatsApp. During my stay, I often forgot I was in Cancun and not some private island in the Caribbean (or at least, how I imagine that would be like).

The property: The ocean is the resort's centerpiece, and its vistas are prioritized, from the rooftop infinity pool to the oceanfront rooms with their private terrace complete with an outdoor hot tub. Woven throughout the property are subtle reminders of the sea and the creatures within, such as sculptures of whale sharks by Mexican artist Cesar Menchaca using upcycled plastic and elegant lobby seating echoing the shape of a starfish.

The exterior of the cliffside property looks like a white seashell.

The property was once an abandoned hotel, but youd never know it. Looking up, you can see how the whitewashed resort pays tribute to its location by resembling a seashell. Its cliffside location, tucked-away courtyards and archways give it a Santorini architectural feel.

Built into the natural landscape atop a coastal cliff, the development of Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets was designed with purpose and inspired by a profound respect for the natural beauty and cultural richness of Isla Mujeres, Doyne said.

A dock wraps around the 125-room resorts beachfront, providing plenty of cabana space for guests to hunker down in and enclosing a swimming oasis. Hammocks hang off the dock, inches above the water, inviting you in for a daytime nap.

The dock wraps around the resort's oceanfront, creating a calm swimming area.

With spring break around the corner, it'll cost two adults during the week of April 5-12 about $1,100 a night for an ocean-view room with two double beds, or one king bed and a sofa area. This rate includes a terrace, free laundry service, boat transfers, all amenities, and, of course, food and beverage. You can also use World of Hyatt points to book, and theres a member rate.

The rooms are outfitted in natural tones and materials, but you'll want to spend most of your time on the terrace.

The same week at fellow Isla Mujeres high-end resort Hotel Privilege Aluxes Isla Mujeres will run you more than $4,190 a night for an ocean-view suite, which has a large living area, food and beverage and similar amenities. (Although this seems a high rate, it is cheaper later in the year. A normal room is $1,949 in September, but theres no terrace or promised ocean views.)

Eating well: The all-inclusive food and drink at Impression Isla Mujeres were top-notch, with eight dining options to choose from, ranging from Italian to Japanese cuisine and nine bars and lounges. My favorite restaurant was the breezy La Vista, which served Mexican fare to outdoor tables overlooking the water.

La Vista restaurant is aptly named.

It was my first time at an all-inclusive resort, and I indulged almost daily in the unlimited room service, with help from an in-room touchscreen tablet. If I didnt hear the doorbell, staff would place the food in a two-way cabinet, lending to my peace and quiet.

To do: Besides the difficult choice between lounging by the pool or beach, guests can participate in robust daily programming, from wellness offerings to cultural enrichment workshops. I attended a smoke-cleansing session during sunset, and not only were the views breathtaking but I learned more about the Indigenous spiritual practice. Those who want more of a thrill can try out the four-story waterslide that empties into the ocean, go snorkeling or take one of the free bikes out for a ride. It takes only about 40 minutes to cruise the entire island.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Isla Mujeres is a quieter alternative to Cancun: Read our travel guide
The Falmouth representative to the Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates announced he will be deploying with the Massachusetts Army National Guard on Jan. 25 as part of the U.S. militarys Operation Inherent Resolve.

Dan Gessen, 23, a second lieutenant infantry platoon leader for the Army National Guard, said he will continue serving as Falmouths delegate remotely during his deployment. He said balancing the duties of his deployment with the Assembly of Delegates will not be without its complexities, but will be doable.

I definitely want to emphasize that the priorities that exist, whether it's housing, wastewater, the cost of living on the Cape, or the environment, they're going to remain the same for me, whether I'm here or I'm there, Gessen said. And I'm fully committed to making sure I speak for Falmouth on these issues, and I continue the effort that I've been pursuing thus far.

Operation Inherent Resolve is targeted operations to defeat the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria areas of influence, according to the U.S. Dept. of Defense.

Barnstable County Assembly of Delegate Dan Gessen, representing Falmouth, will deploy with the Massachusetts Army National Guard on Jan. 25 as part of the U.S. militarys Operation Inherent Resolve. I definitely want to emphasize that the priorities that exist, whether it's housing, wastewater, the cost of living on the Cape, or the environment, they're going to remain the same for me, whether I'm here or I'm there, Gessen said. He was photographed Jan. 18 at Falmouth Town Hall.

A Falmouth native

The son of refugees from the former U.S.S.R., Gessen was born and raised in Falmouth.

My parents came during the 1980s when there was an opportunity to escape the U.S.S.R., he said. I know, that's allowed me a lot of opportunities here in the U.S. and I believe it's an individual responsibility to make sure these opportunities continue to be available to others. I kind of see my service in the military and on the Assembly of Delegates as a way of meeting that responsibility.

He said he enlisted in the Army National Guard when he was still in high school at the age of 17. He was then awarded the national R.O.T.C. scholarship and attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

In 2022: 21-year-old Dan Gessen will represent Falmouth in Assembly of Delegates

In 2020, Gessen ran for the Falmouth seat on the Assembly once state Sen. Susan Moran stepped down to run for her current Massachusetts Senate seat. Though initially unsuccessful  coming in second behind former Falmouth delegate and Falmouth Select Board member Douglas Brown  Gessen said he was appointed to the Assembly after Brown resigned in March 2022.

In November that year, I ended up being reelected for another full-term and Ive been serving ever since, Gessen said.

What is the Assembly of Delegates?

The Assembly of Delegates is the legislative branch of Barnstable County government and responsible for adopting new regulations and maintaining checks and balances over the executive branch, known as the Board of Regional Commissioners. The delegates are elected from each of the Cape's 15 towns and serve for two years.

Among the issues Gessen said he has focused on during his tenure, housing remains a critical priority.

The housing crisis is super significant for pretty much all Cape Codders, I don't think there's a bigger issue that affects Cape Cod on an individual level, but also just the businesses on the Cape and the community on the Cape, he said.

How long will the deployment last?

It is uncertain how long the deployment will be or where he will be stationed, but Gessen said he expects to be back on the Cape by mid-fall. He intends to remain accessible via email at daniel.gessen@capecod.gov .

Without a doubt, this isn't going to be the easiest and the most straightforward thing, to balance this deployment and with the Assembly of Delegates, making sure I'm representing my constituents fairly, Gessen said. But I think it's very doable, I'm far from the first person to ever have done it.

Walker Armstrong reports on all things Cape and Islands, primarily focusing on courts, transportation and the Joint Base Cape Cod military base. Contact him at WArmstrong@capecodonline.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jd__walker.

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: Elected Falmouth delegate called for deploy intends to work remotely
A Hyundai Sonata careened through a Florida dental office and into a restaurant next door, police said.

A 22-year-old woman was driving down a road in Clearwater around 7 a.m. on Jan. 21 when she crossed a median, went over a curb and entered the parking lot of a strip mall, the Clearwater Police Department told WTVT.

After crossing the parking lot, the driver hit the front door and windows of Greenberg Dental, police said in a Jan. 21 Facebook post.

No one was injured during the crash, police said.

The driver hit the dental office with such force that the car plowed through the office and hit the wall on the other side, police said.

The car burst through the wall and finally came to a stop inside the restaurant next door, Skyline Chili, police said in the post.

After traveling through the dental office, the driver crashed through the wall of the neighboring restaurant, police said.

No one was injured in the crash, and the driver was arrested on a charge of driving under the influence, police said on Facebook.

It couldve been so much worse, Amy Groene, owner of Skyline Chili, told WTVT. We are unbelievably thankful there was no one in here. Everyone is fine. Its property. Its things. It stinks. It costs money, but we are so thankful none of our families were in here.

The car came to a stop in the restaurants dining area, a place that is normally full during meal time, the owner told news outlets.

Groene said the portion of the restaurant that was damaged is usually full during meal times, WTVT reported, and the restaurant hopes to be able to reopen by the end of the week.

Clearwater is about 20 miles west of Tampa.

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The market in Donetsk after shelling

The number of fatalities in the shelling of the Donetsk market has rise to 28, Russian occupation authorities claim.

This is up from the 25 killed claimed by Denis Pushilin, the Russian gauleiter and Kremlin puppet in the so-called DPR.

Read also: New Year's Eve explosions rock Donetsk, Russians claim four dead, 'war correspondents' injured

Donetsks Kirovsky district market was shelled on the morning of January 21, with Russian occupation authorities blaming the shelling on the Ukrainian military.

Ukraine has a stated policy of not targeting civilians and of taking extra precaution in operations in or near Russian-occupied Ukrainian cities.

Read also: Russian missile hits Donbas hospital during surgery  video

Photos and videos from the shelling show bloodied bodies of people. Russians claimed in the video that Russian soldiers were also present at the scene.

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Bishop David Bonnar, head of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, offers a final blessing at the former St. Mary's Immaculate Conception in Canton last November. St. Mary's became part of a larger parish under of the diocese's ongoing reconfiguration plan. Four more Canton churches are set to be merged into two parishes this year.

The Basilica of St. John the Baptist and St. Peter Catholic Church in Canton will merge as part of a reconfiguration plan, as will the St. Joan of Arc and St. Joseph parishes, the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has announced.

Bishop David Bonnar accepted the recommendation for the mergers  which were announced Sunday at Masses  at a meeting of the Diocesan Presbyteral Council earlier this month. As a result, almost all of the dioceses 80 parishes are now part of a collaborative unit, or exist as a multi-site parish.

The plan was introduced by the late Bishop George Murry in 2019 to address the decline in parish membership and a shortage of priests, and has continued to be developed since Bonnar's installation in 2021. It's also being driven by parish finances, population shifts within the region and the effective use of buildings.

Eugene "Trey" Wackerly III , a fifth-generation member of St. Peter noted that this time "it appears that most Catholic churches, whether in the Youngstown diocese or other dioceses around Ohio, are having to consolidate multiple churches into a parish in order to survive.

"St. Peter and the Basilica of St. John were already combining the two churches' organizations over the last several years, except for the joining of finances, to make it a parish," he said. "Father John Sheridan, our prior pastor, over the last several years, brought our two churches together into a more family unit. He did a great job in bringing a sense of togetherness between the two churches.

"Had this not occurred, it would have been more of a shock to go through this new change recently announced by the bishop of Youngstown. I would imagine the new pastor at St. Peter and the Basilica of John is trying his best to keep a sense of togetherness between the two churches and unite them into a new parish."

A fourth-degree, fourth generation member of the Knights of Columbus (Canton Council 341), Wackerly said he's still optimistic about the church's future, particularly at the local level.

"I think this is the future of all Catholic churches for survival, and with any new change, we have to adjust and get used to it," he said. "But I feel with several years of St. Peter Church and the Basilica of St. John the Baptist collaborating and with this recent development, we will become a stronger parish and as a merged Catholic family."

In addition to the Canton mergers, the diocese announced the following mergers in other counties:

Ashtabula: St. Mary Parish in Orwell and Sacred Heart Parish in Rock Creek.

Mahoning: Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish and St. Joseph Parish in Austintown; St. Charles Parish and St. Luke Parish in Boardman; and St. Columba Cathedral Parish, St. Edward Parish and Holy Apostles Parish in Youngstown.

Portage:St. Joseph Parish in Mogadore and St. Peter of the Fields Parish in Rootstown Township.

Trumbull: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and St. Stephen Parish in Niles; and Blessed Sacrament Parish, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish and St. Mary and St. Joseph Parish in Warren.

"Sad commentary ... but necessary," one person wrote on Facebook responding to the diocese's post on the news.

Diocese of Youngstown has been merging parishes since 2021

Since 2021, there have been five mergers between parishes (where two or more parishes become one parish community) within the six-county Diocese of Youngstown. In most cases, parish mergers mean that churches maintain their identities while sharing a priest and lay leadership.

Last year, two Canton parishes, St. Anthony/All Saints and St. Benedict/St. Mary's Immaculate merged to form a new parish, St. Francis of Assisi. In the case of St. Mary, parish leaders decided to close the church at 1602 Market Ave. S.

Last Mass: Parishioners bid farewell to St. Mary in Canton

In 2022, St. Barbara, St. Joseph and St. Mary in Massillon were merged to form the Divine Mercy parish.

Bonnar has tasked the affected parishes with formulating a plan for their mergers.

I am grateful to the Presbyteral Council for making this important recommendation, which will help ease the burden of pastors who currently need to oversee the administration of separate entities and attend multiple sets of meetings, including parish pastoral councils, finance councils, and parish staff," he said in a statement. "The time is right for these particular parishes to come together and form one community. We are better when we are together.

Historic parish turns 200: Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, the cradle of Canton Catholicism, turns 200

The Basilica of St. John the Baptist at 627 McKinley Ave. NW celebrated its 200th anniversary last year, making it one of the oldest Catholic parishes in Ohio. The historic parish was elevated to "minor basilica" status by the Vatican in 2012.

Neighboring St. Peter's was founded by German immigrants in 1845. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

Both parishes are being served by the Rev. David Misbrener and have been sharing staff for some time.

St. Joseph at 2427 Tuscarawas St. W was built in 1902. St. Joan of Arc at 166 Bordner Ave. SW was established in 1944. The Rev. Scott Kopp pastors both churches.

Reach Charita at 330-580-8313 or charita.goshay@cantonrep.com.

On Twitter: @cgoshayREP

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Canton Catholic churches to merger, Diocese of Youngstown says
IRON COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  A Cedar City man was arrested Friday after officers with the Iron County Task Force found firearms, cocaine, marijuana, and large amounts of cash in his residence.

Brent Arthur Taylor, 48, was arrested on two counts of distribute/offer/arrange distribution of controlled substance, a second-degree felony; distribute/offer/arrange distribution of controlled substance, a third-degree felony; and six counts of possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, a third-degree felony, the Iron County Task Force said.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson dedicates Orem Utah Temple

Task Force agents said they received information that a man, identified as Taylor, had been selling cocaine from his Cedar City residence, according to court documents.

On Friday, Jan. 19, agents were able to get a search warrant for his residence. During the search, they reportedly found nearly 41 firearms  including pistols, AR style rifles, shotguns, AK-47 style rifles, and more. There were also firearms that did not have serial numbers, called ghost guns, court documents state.

Additionally, agents said they found cocaine all over the residence. They said they are still investigating the total amount, but there is way more than personal use, court documents state. There were reportedly two large gallon size bags with cocaine residue found in the sink  flushed before officers got inside the residence, court documents state. Agents said they believe there was close to a pound of cocaine in those flushed bags.

There were also several scales and hundreds of small empty bags, according to court documents.

Agents reportedly located a large amount of marijuana  more than personal use, they said  as well as mushrooms and various pills.

Additionally, agents found more than $8,000 in cash, kept in the kitchen and bedroom in drawers and in close proximity to controlled substances, court documents state.

Officers said Taylor is what Drug Task Force Agents would consider a one stop shop  meaning drug users could come to his residence and buy several different types of drugs at one place, according to court documents.

Taylor was booked into the Iron County Jail on the previously mentioned charges.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Semafor Signals

Insights from Newslaundry, The Wire, Religion News Service, and The Economic Times

The News

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir  a temple devoted to the Hindu deity Lord Ram  in the northern Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday. The government and several states declared Jan. 22 a holiday to celebrate the temples consecration as banks and the national stock exchange were closed, and cinemas live-streamed the event.

After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations, and penances, our Lord Ram has arrived, Modi said before thousands of visitors, including Bollywood celebrities and famous Indian sportspersons.

While the consecration of the temple  built at the site of a 16th century mosque that was torn down by a mob in 1992  is being celebrated across the Hindu diaspora and hailed as a crowning achievement for Modis Hindu nationalist campaign, critics argued that its a sign of Indias eroding multiculturalism and secularism and marks a moment of heightening tensions between the countrys Hindu majority and Muslims ahead of this years elections.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Critics say politicization of temple erodes Indias diversity and stifles religious debate

Sources: The Wire India, Newslaundry, Dawn

India was imagined as a country where difference was the unifier, but the politicization of the Ram temple has blown a hole through this imagination a very long time ago, author Revati Laul wrote for The Wire India. That the Ayodhya district administration has instructed the city to close all meat and liquor shops on the day of the temples inauguration is not just the homogenizing of Hindu-ness over an Indian-ness, Laul opined, but the homogenizing [of] an upper-caste Hindu-ness over a nation of mostly meat-eating, alcohol consuming castes, tribes, genders and religions.

Critics also pointed to the stifling of religious and political discourse by the Indian media and government. Any criticism of the ruling nationalist government is directly linked to criticism of the Hindu religion, argued journalist Raj Shekhar Sen for Indian media watchdog site Newslaundry. Religious arguments being used as a weapon to justify state policy can become a conversation stopper, he wrote, detailing how one of his secular friends donated to the temples construction out of concern that his community might single him out for future repercussions.

An Islamabad-based writer drew comparisons to Pakistani politics where religion is the weapon of choice for demolishing opponents. The message from Modis Hindu nationalist agenda to Indias secular opposition party is to change your discourse from secular to religious or risk being seen as anti-Hindu, Pervez Hoodbhoy wrote for Pakistans Dawn newspaper.

Diaspora celebrates temple as a revival of Hindu civilization

Sources: Business Line, Religion News

In the United States, both temples and iconic landmarks like New York Citys Time Square broadcasted the inauguration, with many in the global Hindu diaspora seeing the temple as a chance to put Hindu Americans on the map and to strengthen ties between Hindus, Religion News Service wrote. Some religious leaders saw the temple as a testament of Hindu resilience and a revival of Hindu civilization, with one Californian telling the outlet, On a global level, were in an age now that were trying to reclaim indigenous rights.

Questions surge over temple's price tag and government's economic priorities

Sources: The Economic Times, Al Jazeera, Frontline

With an estimated cost of nearly $217 million USD, the temple is one of Indias most expensive public monuments in recent years, according to The Economic Times. Donations covered most of the construction, but the central and local governments chipped in a significant amount, the paper reported. The government pitched the temple and redevelopment around the site as a significant investment for the state of Uttar Pradesh, expected to generate some $48 billion in tourism revenue this year. Real estate in Ayodhya has also become a lucrative business in recent years, with developers paying for land costlier than the gold to build hotels and other new businesses. However, the revamp led to thousands of shops and homes reportedly being broken down or displaced, at the cost of small business owners and local residents, the Wire reported. Modis critics have argued that the government neglected funding more crucial services, with Indias leftist Frontline Magazine blaming the seductive narcotic of a temple in a country with the worlds highest rate of childhood malnutrition and one of the highest poverty rates in South Asia.
Editors Warning: Viewers may find the body camera footage disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Charges have been filed against the man whom Grand Rapids officers shot after pulling out a knife in December, the prosecutor says.

Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announced Monday that 20-year-old Nodin James Chervenka faces one count of felonious assault, a felony punishable by up to four years and/or $2,000, and two counts of resisting and opposing a police officer, a felony punishable by a maximum of two years and/or $2,000.

He was booked into the Kent County jail on Friday.

Mom hopes shooting of mentally-ill son by GRPD is a turning point

Becker said that he has no basis to charge either Grand Rapids police officer involved.

Their actions on that day were justified by the circumstances in which they found themselves, he said in a release.

1 hospitalized after officer-involved shooting in Grand Rapids

The shooting happened on the morning of Dec. 16, 2023, in the area of Union Avenue NE and Innes Street NE.

During a news conference the following day, Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom said police received a call about a man inside a local business who was threatening customers.

This individual had locked himself in a bathroom and then possibly attempting to steal something and then he was threatening customers, Winstrom said.

Not long after, police say they heard a man with the same description who was assaulting people in the area.

Around 8:30 a.m., an officer went to Union Avenue NE and Innes Street NE on the citys northeast side and found Chervenka in an alley.

Police said Chervenka was shot twice while charging at an officer with a box cutter.

Video shows he then ran into a garage, told police he had a knife, then charged again, this time at two officers. One hit him with a Taser, which didnt stop him; the other officer stopped him with a gunshot to the arm.

Chervenka was then taken to the hospital where he went through surgery.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Editor's note: This article was updated to clarify that the Little Acorn Academy Application is separate from the Pre-K Application for Savannah-Chatham public schools. The application timelines for both are the same, however.

As K-12 students settle into their routines for the second half the school year, thinking ahead about options for the 2024-2025 school year might seem premature. However, timelines to secure spots in Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools' 26 different Choice Programs or to apply for admission to public charter and private schools get underway this week, while some already have begun.

School choices evolve each year as new programs are added or expanded and new schools come online. Families should be aware that SCCPSS has traditional elementary school options that consist of kindergarten through fifth grade levels. The district also has eight middle schools that are strictly sixth through eighth grades. SCCPSS also has eight K-8 schools with Casimir Pulaski Elementary School in the process of being converted to a K-8 school. The multi-school complex formerly referred to as the Groves-Mercer-Gould complex was initially built as a K-12 site, but recent changes to the SCCPSS approved Long-Range Facilities Plan Phase 1 have shifted the site a 6-12 complex.

To help families make sense of the bounty of information, the Savannah Morning News (SMN) launches a four-part series this week assessing schooling options in the Savannah-Chatham County area. First up will be a look at the SCCPSS Choice Program options for pre-K, elementary and K-8 schools. Families can review the full list of SCCPSS schools at sccpss.com/schools/Pages/default.aspx.

More: Facilities plan and grant funds top first Savannah-Chatham school board meeting of 2024

Formey Early Learning Center Principal Erica Swindell-Foster (foreground) and SCCPSS Deputy Superintendent Bernadette Ball-Oliver (background) welcome students into a classroom at Formey where bikes donated by Gateway Terminals awaited the students on Dec. 14, 2023.

SCCPSS Little Acorn Academy and Pre-K Program

SCCPSS's Little Acorn Academy and Pre-K Program offer learning options for families with 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. The two Little Acorn Academy sites are located at Carrie E. Gould Elementary School, 4910 Pineland Drive, and the Early Learning Center at Henderson E. Formey, Jr. School 400 E. Broad St.

The districts website states, Families residing in the Gould attendance zone will have priority at that location, those residing in the Shuman Elementary, Williams Elementary, and Formey Early Learning Center attendance zones will have priority for admission at Formey.

In order to apply, children must be 3 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2024, and must be potty-trained.

Parents of children who are 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2024 must enroll in the Pre-Kindergarten Choice Program to have access to SCCPSS pre-K services. Students must also reside in Chatham County. SCCPSS offers 65 Georgia Lottery Funded pre-K classes. Each is limited to only 20 students.

The district's website states, Our program provides a full day (6.5 hours) of appropriate instructional services utilizing the Creative Curriculum to students for the regular school calendar year. The purpose of the Pre-K Program is school readiness and transition to kindergarten for success in later school years.

The Little Acorn Academy will use the same application as the Choice Programs (choice.sccpss.com), but the Pre-K will have a separate application on pk.sccpss.com. Both applications timelines will run during the same timeframe from Jan. 27 through Feb. 9, 2024.

More: Gallery: Gateway Terminals donates 125 bikes to Savannah school children

SCCPSS Neighborhood Schools

Every registered K-12 student in Chatham County is eligible to attend their neighborhood schools, for which they are zoned based on where they live. Some neighborhood schools are also Choice Schools but give priority to students who live within the designated attendance zone. SCCPSS has a school zone finder tool so families can determine which elementary, middle and high schools they are assigned to. Students who live more than 1.5 miles from their zoned school are provided transportation. If students live within 1.5 miles of their zoned school, they are not provided transportation and must secure a ride or walk to school.

Families should review SCCPS registration requirements.

GA State Superintendent Richard Woods shows off literacy banner to Andrea B. Williams Elementary students during a ceremony in Sept. 2023 to commemorate the school's literacy leader award alongside other SCCPSS schools.

SCCPSS Choice Program options

According to the SCCPSS website, Choice Program Schools provide our students with a diverse portfolio of educational options. Families are encouraged to review SCCPSSs 2024-25 School Choice Program Information Guide and the 2024-25 Choice Program Open House Schedule.

Students who wish to attend Choice Schools for the 2024-25 school year must complete the Choice Program application between Jan. 27 and Feb. 9, 2024. The district will also hold its annual Student Success Expo and STEM Festival 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Jan. 27 at the Savannah Civic Center.

For a sense of the total available seats at choice schools, families can review the district's 20232024 Choice Program Information & Updates presentation from the Nov. 1, 2023 school board meeting.

EVENTS TIMELINE Application Window Opens January 27, 2024 Application Window Closes February 9, 2024 Appeal Process Begins March 1, 2024 Appeal Process Ends March 7, 2024 Savannah Arts Academy Auditions February 24, 2024 Garrison School for the Arts Auditions February 24, 2024 Notification of Lottery Eligibility February 28, 2024 Lottery March 11, 2024 Data Quality and Validation Period March 12  13, 2024 Parents Notified of Choice Results after 4:00pm March 14, 2024 Choice Program Registration Opens March 14, 2024 Registration Closes March 27, 2024 Waitlist Notifications Begin April 8, 2024

Choice Elementary and K-8 Schools

SMN collected data from multiple sources to prepare this article. Enrollment data provided for schools comes from the district's latest enrollment report that was supplied to SMN on Jan. 17, 2024.

GADOE does not calculate schoolwide averages for elementary or middle schools on its GMAS reports for Reading Status, English Language Arts or Math. SMN calculated Georgia Milestones Assessment System (GMAS) schoolwide score averages included in this article based on the grade levels served at each choice school using the numbers provided in the GADOE GMAS 2022-23 Statewide Scores reports.

Elementary (K-5) Choice Schools

Andrea B. Williams Elementary School, 1150 Wheaton St., Savannah 

While not a certified STEAM school, the School Choice program guide states that the school fosters critical thinkers and problem solvers by maximizing their potential through the implementation of STEAM principles.

SCCPSS announced in early January that A.B. Williams recently exited the Comprehensive Support & Improvement (CSI) Schools list. This past year, the school achieved an improvement in 2022-2023 GMAS Reading Status by increasing scores by 12.16 percentage points.

Principal: Tony Foy

Approximate Enrollment: 440

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  5th grades

Reading status  41.27 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  39.35 % developing learners or above

Math  50.73 % developing learners or above

*Families should note that the districts Phase 2 of the Long-Range Facilities Plan will eventually shift A.B. Williams to a 3rd through 5th grade school. Choice options might still be available for those grades, but families should review SCCPSS resources each year for any potential changes.

Virginia Heard Elementary, 414 Lee Blvd., Savannah 

Heard is a Georgia certified STEAM elementary school. The program guide highlights that, a state of the art STEAM Lab, Technology Lab, and MakerSpace provide hands-on experimentation and investigation, and enhance classroom science and engineering instruction. The school also offers visual and performing arts that, are intertwined with weekly Fine Arts classes and daily classroom instruction.

Principal (interim): Christa Smalls

Approximate Enrollment: 662

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  5th grades

Reading Status  69.30 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  74.79 % developing learners or above

Math  77.06 % developing learners or above

Sarah Mills Hodge Elementary School - Medical and Allied Health Program, 975 Clinch St., Savannah

The program guide says that this, choice program works to create well-rounded individuals who are knowledgeable about the human body, total body wellness, and the impact of the medical field in the lives of citizens all over the world.

Principal (interim): Samanthia Williams

Approximate Enrollment: 381

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  5th grades

Reading Status  66.28 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  71.15 % developing learners or above

Math  68.55 % developing learners or above

Jacob G. Smith Elementary, 210 Lamara Drive, Savannah

The schools blurb in the program guide states, We strive to offer a teacher-directed, traditional, back-to-basics approach to teaching and learning. Our curriculum is designed to implement the Georgia Standards of Excellence and promote equity in education by building a base of knowledge for all students in the early years of school.

Principal: Channil Scott

Approximate Enrollment: 461

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  5th grades

Reading Status  84.51 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  87.09 % developing learners or above

Math  87.74 % developing learners or above

Marshpoint Elementary, 135 Whitemarsh Island Road, Savannah 

The program guide notes how the school, integrates STEM/STEAM programs to offer a challenging framework that encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world.

Principal: Susan Ambrose

Approximate Enrollment: 625

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  5th grades

Reading Status  71.70 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  72.53 % developing learners or above

Math  87.12 % developing learners or above

K-8 Choice Schools

Charles Ellis Montessori Academy, 220 East 49th St., Savannah

The school is an affiliated school with the American Montessori Society, www.amshq.org. The districts program guide states that, this program encourages critical thinking, exploration and self-directed learning. Students enrolled in this program are also exposed to individualized work plans.

*SCCPSS notes that prior Montessori experience is preferred for students entering 4th to 8th Grade and documentation of prior Montessori Experience will be reviewed prior to admission.

Principal: Tanya Melville

Approximate Enrollment: 426

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  8th grades

Reading Status  66.28 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  71.15 % developing learners or above

Math  68.55 % developing learners or above

Esther F. Garrison School for the Arts, 649 West Jones St., Savannah 

SCCPSS states that this visual and performing arts program provides experiences to motivate students to excel in the academics as well as the arts.

*All students applying for grades 6-8 must audition, which will be ranked using a score of 1-100. Audition scores factor into to each students lottery application. SCCPSSs program guide states, Students applying will be seated according to their audition ranking, based on the number of seats available in each performing arts area. Sibling preference DOES NOT apply to middle school students submitting applications for grades 6-8.

Families are advised to check-in at Garrisons website for the release of the 2024-25 school year audition guide.

Principal: Aysha Parks

Approximate Enrollment: 767

GMAS schoolwide performance 3rd  8th grades

Reading Status  82.57 % grade level or above

English Language Arts  87.30 % developing learners or above

Math  87.49 % developing learners or above

Joseph Schwartzburt is the education and workforce development reporter for the Savannah Morning News. You can reach him at JSchwartzburt@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah-Chatham public schools choice lottery opens on Jan. 27
It was easier to figure out what news sources to trust when I was growing up in Chicago. You could read the Chicago Tribune or the Sun-Times. (I rode along on my brothers newspaper routes.) You could watch the local news on WGN-Ch. 9 or tune into one of the network news channels. Newspapers published their opinions on the editorial pages or in clearly labeled commentaries, and all worked to get their facts right.

But now? Think about how we consume news in our digital age: largely through our individual screens, from fragmented sources across social media. Think about the young people in your life. Where do they get their news? How do they know where to turn for information they can trust?

We are facing a news literacy crisis. We are awash in content, from promoted posts, to user-generated videos and punditry meant to persuade rather than inform. Misinformation and disinformation lurk everywhere, helped along by bots, trolls and artificial intelligence and promoted by foreign agents. And too often, such content gets a boost from Americans who should know better.

As all this questionable content proliferates, local newspapers close at a rate of more than two per week.

In this information world, it has become exceedingly difficult to find credible news  the vetted facts that we all need to make informed decisions about our lives and communities that are the foundation of our democracy. Without the ability to find reliable information and verifiable facts, public trust in our institutions continues to fall.

But rather than throw up our hands and give in to cynicism, we can do something to separate fact from fiction.

This week is National News Literacy Week, an annual event aimed at providing people with the tools and skills they need to find credible news and information. Co-sponsored by the nonprofit News Literacy Project, the week is a reminder of the importance of news literacy for everyone, especially the next generation. The idea is to spark a national movement for news literacy, much like previous campaigns against drunken driving or littering. We can  and we must  build a more news-literate America.

Being news literate means knowing how to think about the news and information we encounter, so we know what to trust, share and act on. Illinois is making strides in helping young people navigate our confusing information environment, with high schools now required to teach one unit of media literacy before students graduate. This is a good start, but we all need to get smarter about how we consume news and information, no matter our age. We can start with three easy steps.

1. Be intentional about the information you consume. This means actively seeking out news sources, rather than passively hoping that standards-based news stories will find their way into your feeds. It also means turning to a variety of sources  even those that might challenge our beliefs  rather than falling into echo chambers.

2. Take the time to analyze the information in your feeds. Simply pausing to consider whether a claim is true before hitting share on a post can stop misinformation before it has a chance to spread. Simply being skeptical of claims that dont link back to an original source  a common misinformation tactic  can help prevent you from falling for false information.

3. Act as a trusted intermediary in your networks. Sharing information often provides people with a sense of belonging and validation of their beliefs. In an era of declining trust in traditional news media, leverage your personal relationships to spread reliable information. This will require using PEP  patience, empathy and persistence  in conversations with your family and friends.

We will never stop the supply of bad information. There will always be new sources that create and spread it and algorithms that promote it. Instead, we must fix the demand side and ensure that everyone has the skills they need to separate fact from fiction and seek out quality news and information.

To give verifiable facts a fighting chance, we all need the knowledge to make well-informed choices.

David Hiller, a former publisher of the Chicago Tribune, is a member of the News Literacy Projects National Journalism Advisory Council.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
Chehalis police are looking for suspects after an ATM was stolen with a forklift on January 13 around 8:15 a.m.

According to police, the ATM was stolen from the Washington State Employees Credit Union in the 1700 block of Northwest Louisiana Avenue.

Police said it was ripped from the front of the building.

It was then driven to a nearby Home Depot parking lot, where it was opened, and an undisclosed amount of cash was taken.

The Chehalis Police Department is asking for your help finding the suspects. If you have any information call Detective Sergeant Ayers or Detective Fithen at 360-748-8605 or dispatch at 360-740-1105.

The crime is still under investigation and no further information is being released at this time.

In 2019, another ATM was stolen from the Credit Union in Chehalis with a forklift and loaded into a truck. Police thought that the forklift was stolen from a nearby construction site. No thieves were caught.
Guest Opinion. In the modern world, no child should ever need to worry about having enough nutritious food. When families cannot provide that by themselves, it is a core responsibility of good government to fill the gap.

This is why, when the U.S. Department of Agriculture asked for help distributing food benefits during summer months, Cherokee Nation was quick to volunteer. We joined three other tribal nations, 35 states and five U.S. territories to offer this program nationwide.

The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer for Children program, or Summer EBT, will provide $40 per month for each child in families that qualify for free or reduced-price lunches. So each child  Native or non-Native  that qualifies and goes to a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program could receive $120 over the duration of the summer. This food aid is especially important during the summer break when kids arent getting meals at school. The money is loaded on an EBT card that families can use in grocery stores.

Families have been under enough pressure from rising costs of housing and other expenses on limited household budgets. According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 1 in 5 Oklahoma families with children were uncertain about being able to afford enough food at some point in the year. In this situation, empowering parents to purchase more healthy food should be uncontroversial.

Supporting food security supports good health. A 2022 study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan think tank, noted that access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Benefits, another food security program, leads to lower health care costs and better health outcomes for participants. Although the causes of childhood obesity are complicated, a growing body of research suggests a strong link between food insecurity and obesity, as noted in a 2022 article from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Science and research aside, anyone who spends any time visiting with low-income families knows this: keeping growing kids fed in the summer at a time when school is out and grocery prices are high is very difficult.

Unfortunately, the state of Oklahoma chose not to participate in Summer EBT this year. However, Cherokee Nations program will be available to all families with kids attending schools on our 14-county reservation in northeast Oklahoma, whether or not they are Native Americans. Likewise, the Chickasaw Nation program will be available to all families within their reservation or the Choctaw Nation reservation.

Thanks to the tribes participating in Summer EBT, at least $50 million of our federal tax dollars will be returned to Oklahoma families. Cherokee Nation is covering part of the rather modest administrative costs, but the benefits will come back to families on our reservation many times over. In fact, last year Cherokee Nations investment of around $250,000 in administrative cost share yielded $3.5 million in direct federal cash assistance to kids in need. The Cherokee Nation knows a good investment when we see it, and we see it in the summer EBT program.

We are also actively discussing with neighboring tribes on how we can support one another in offering this program and potentially expanding it to additional tribal areas. The state of Oklahoma may be satisfied with inexplicably turning down food assistance for low-income families. The tribes within the state are not.

In addition to the Summer EBT program, Cherokee Nation has long been focused on helping our citizens get healthy foods  from the WIC program, which operates year-round supporting pregnant mothers and families with young children, to our food distribution sites offering a consumer-friendly, grocery store caliber experience, and our emergency efforts to safely distribute hundreds of thousands of food boxes during the worst of the COVID pandemic. Student EBT cards can be used at any store that accepts Cherokee Nation WIC benefits.

We are also taking on efforts to support both consumers and local food producers, such as the 1839 Cherokee Meat Co. that provides meat-processing services and affordable protein options to Cherokee families, including those using SNAP benefits. Additionally, Cherokee Nation is navigating details with USDA on how to potentially serve more students outside the 14-county reservation.

Cherokee Nation is working toward the day when no child ever has to wonder where their next meal is coming from, and no parent ever has to worry that they cant provide healthy nutrition for their kids. The investments we make today in food security will pay off in stronger families, more thriving communities, and a healthier rising generation of kids.

About the Author: "Elyse Wild is senior editor for Native News Online and Tribal Business News. "

Contact: ewild@indiancountrymedia.com
A vote on a Chicago City Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza set for Wednesday will be postponed after a group of 28 aldermen petitioned for a delay, according to the measures sponsors.

The aldermen calling for the delay, led by Ald. Debra Silverstein, 50th, pointed last week to a council vote set for this week on a resolution commemorating 79 years since the liberation of the Auschwitz Nazi concentration camp. They cited sensitivity concerns as they asked for the cease-fire vote to be put off for a month.

Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez, a lead sponsor of the cease-fire resolution, plans to use a procedural move Wednesday to table it. The Northwest Side alderman expects the vote will be rescheduled for a new City Council meeting in the next few weeks, she told the Tribune Monday.

We absolutely want to be sensitive to our Holocaust survivors, Rodriguez-Sanchez said. But I dont think talking about the pain that Palestinians are suffering right now and the huge loss of life  I dont think that is insensitive.

The delay marks further struggle over where Chicago should place its symbolic support as the war in Gaza continues.

The war began with Hamas attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7, when the group killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took about 250 hostages back to Gaza. Since the war started, over 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, while nearly 63,000 have been wounded, according to the Gaza-based Ministry of Health.

Days after the initial Hamas attack, the City Council passed a resolution sponsored by Silverstein, the councils lone Jewish member, supporting Israel during an emotional and often unruly special meeting. Silverstein and others condemned democratic socialist colleagues, including Rodriguez-Sanchez, who wanted the resolution to highlight Israels role in the ongoing conflict as pro-Gaza protesters chanted.

The councils Human Relations Committee, which Rodriguez-Sanchez chairs, last month passed the cease-fire resolution originally penned by Ald. Daniel La Spata, 1st.

At the time, the Jewish Community Relations Council and Anti-Defamation League Midwest described the resolution as misguided  reckless, irresponsible and dangerous, for failing to describe Hamas as a genocidal terrorist organization. The resolution has since been updated to more directly call for the release of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas as it demands a cease-fire and humanitarian aid.

While Rodriguez-Sanchez doesnt believe holding a vote on a cease-fire resolution close to International Holocaust Remembrance Day would be insensitive, she hopes accommodating the delay requests will garner more support.

Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration is working with her to schedule a vote on the resolution at a new City Council meeting that would occur before the councils next currently scheduled meeting, Rodriguez-Sanchez said. Several aldermen who signed the petition calling for a delay have told her they will support the cease-fire resolution, she added.

It is urgent that the council passes the resolution to support the citys Palestinian population, among the largest in the country, as civilian deaths rise in Gaza, Rodriguez-Sanchez said.

The idea that we can ignore the people that live around us, the people that are a part of the fabric of our community and their pain, is just unthinkable to me, she said. We should always show solidarity with people who are suffering.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com
By Liz Lee

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's chief intelligence agency posted on social media a comic strip featuring foreign-looking characters secretly extracting rare earths, in a story portraying the country's strategic metals under threat from covetous "overseas organisations".

The comic strip, published on Sunday on the State Security Ministry's official WeChat account, showed security officers uncovering "suspicious" exploration and mapping activities by a group of people supposedly doing survey work for real estate development.

No foreign government or agencies were named in the comic strip, and the ministry did not specify any measures to counter foreign "interest" in China's rare earths.

The ministry could not be reached for further comment.

China, the world's largest producer of rare earths accounting for nearly 90% of global refined output, last year introduced restrictions on exports of the elements germanium and gallium, used widely in the chip-making sector, citing the need to protect national security and interests.

It also banned the export of technology to make rare earth magnets, in addition a ban on technology to extract and separate rare earths.

The restrictions have fanned fears that the supply of rare earths might ignite tensions with the West, particularly the United States, which accuses China of using economic coercion to influence other countries. Beijing denies the claim.

The United States has previously imposed restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and chip-making tools that could fuel breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and sophisticated computers for its military.

Rare earths, used widely in lasers, military equipment and consumer electronics, have grown in demand along with the rapid development of new energy vehicles, wind power and inverter air conditioners.

"As technology grows in leaps and bounds, some primary minerals have become rare strategic resources," a police character in the comic said.

"China boasts rich resources of these minerals. Overseas organisations have already had their eyes on them."

Set in fictional Xishan Mining Area - described as an area rich in critical and scarce mineral deposits that could bring breakthroughs in super-semiconductor technology - the comic depicts two officers that were sent to the area undercover as lost hikers to gather information.

State-controlled Global Times described the comic as underscoring the importance of safeguarding key mineral resources as China-U.S. trade frictions and global geopolitical tensions have turned the global competition for rare earths into an issue of national security.

The newspaper said the United States, Japan and the European Union, among others, have for a long time "coveted China's rare earth mineral resources".

"They have even resorted to infiltration, bribery, and espionage to achieve their goals," Global Times said, quoting Li Baiyang, an associate professor of intelligence studies at Nanjing University.

(Reporting by Liz Lee and Beijing newsroom; editing by Miral Fahmy)
You may have heard the buzz about the millions and millions of cicadas set to emerge this spring across the United States.

They're loud, they're everywhere  and then they're gone. But whether it's a good or bad thing for you, they won't be coming to Ohio this year.

Here's what to know about the broods set to emerge this spring:

Will Ohio have cicadas this year?

Fortunately, Ohio is not in the path of the two broods set to emerge across much of the Southeast and Midwest, according to the University of Connecticut. Ohioans most recently saw cicadas emerge in 2016 on the eastern half of the state, and in 2021 along the southwestern corner of the state.

This year, two different groups, or broods, of cicadas will emerge across multiple states with one singular goal: mating and laying millions of more eggs.

After 13 years, Brood XIX (19) is set to emerge in the spring of 2024 in 14 states across the Southeast and Midwest, and the 17-year Brood XIII will emerge in five Midwestern states around the same time, USA Today reported. This double emergence is the first time this has happened in 221 years and won't happen again until 2245.

A map of where the two cicada broods will emerge across the United States this summer. The broods will overlap in a small area in Illinois.

Of all the states where the broods will emerge this year, they are expected to overlap in Illinois and Indiana.

Where is the closest area to Ohio to see the cicadas?

Parts of western Indiana and all of Illinois will be the best bet for Ohioans looking to see a swarm of bugs within a drive of a couple hours. There's even a part of eastern Illinois south of Chicago where both broods overlap.

More: How to see the cicada brood overlap in Illinois

What is the life cycle of a cicada?

Cicadas have the longest life cycle of any insect, waiting 13 or 17 years to emerge. But once they're above ground, things move pretty fast, USA Today reported.

Female cicadas lay eggs in trees. When the eggs hatch, the young cicada nymphs drop to the ground and burrow, waiting for years to emerge, depending on their brood. Once they emerge, adult cicadas will mate, lay millions of eggs and then die, all in about five weeks.

What is the difference between annual and periodical cicadas?

There are two types of cicadas that are common in Eastern U.S. states: Annual and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas emerge every year, while periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

USA Today and The Cincinnati Enquirer contributed to this report.

@Colebehr_report

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Will the two 2024 cicada brood swarms be coming to Ohio?
Is the rent still too damn high? Yes, if you ask most renters.

But relief could be on the way thanks to a large stock of recently opened apartment buildings, and units that are planned or already under construction in the Cincinnati metro area.

Developers brought about 5,000 new apartment units online in the Cincinnati area over the past two years, and thousands more are in the pipeline for 2024, said Kurt Shoemaker, senior vice president at the real estate investment firm, CBRE Group Inc.

That includes an estimated 1,800 future apartment conversions coming from the adaptive reuse of old office buildings, such as the Carew Tower in Downtown Cincinnati, as well as hotels, warehouses and other structures, according to a recent report from market tracker, RentCafe.

That's still not enough to satisfy demand in an area with a severe affordable housing shortage and where about 60% of the metro area's population are renters.

The Tapestry Ridge luxury apartments at 1401 Dixie Highway in Covington added 267 new units to the Cincinnati metro area in 2023 on the former site of Northern Kentucky University's Covington campus.

But increasing options for renters have resulted in a slower pace of rent hikes as landlords lower asking rents and even offer move-in incentives to attract residents.

"For years, development activity was at a snail's pace coming out of the (2007-2009) recession,'' Shoemaker said. "But the last four or five years have seen a significant uptick in (apartment) construction with more product coming online and a little softening in rents.''

Rents dip in December, up about 5% for the year

The median asking rent or the rental price listed by the landlord  for a one-bedroom apartment in the Cincinnati area dipped $13 from November to December last year to $825  just $5 higher than the asking rent at the beginning of the year, according to figures provided by Dwellsy, an online apartment search platform.

On a year-over-year basis, one-bedroom rents rose about 5% last month compared to December 2022, but that was a marginal increase compared to previous years, Dwellsy data shows.

Cincinnati was "a pretty flat rental market in 2023,'' said Dwellsy CEO Jonas Bordo. "Hopefully, we get more of that in 2024.''

Pricing trends vary by region, and renters in Midwestern cities such as Cincinnati haven't felt the same impact on rents as their counterparts in the South and West regions, where apartment construction has been much more intense.

Markets such as Nashville and Austin have brought on so much supply that they've seen rents drop, Shoemaker said.

Meanwhile, the Cincinnati market "has returned to more normalized levels and rent growth has definitely tapered. But it's not Nashville,'' he said.

The vacant Arlington School on Carthage Avenue in Arlington Heights. The current owner plans to rehabilitate the building into 15 apartment units.

Rent growth expected to slow in 2024

Shoemaker expects rents to continue to moderate and grow only about 2% to 3% next year in Cincinnati.

The Cincinnati area is following the national trend in which the overall median U.S. asking rent fell 0.8% to $1,964 in December 2023, compared to the same month a year earlier, according to Redfin, a national real estate brokerage.

December marked the third consecutive month in which rents declined on a year-over-year basis, Redfin found.

At the same time, the number of completed apartments in the U.S. is near the highest level in more than 30 years, and the number under construction is just shy of its record high.

Notable apartment projects coming online in the Cincinnati area

Carew Tower  Developers plan to convert Downtown's iconic Carew Tower into 385 apartments at a total cost of about $175 million.

PNC Tower  The $90 million, 281-unit luxury apartment complex planned at the former PNC Tower in downtown Cincinnati would be the second phase of development in Cincinnati for Detroit-based City Club Apartments, which opened the 294-unit City Club Apartments CBD Cincinnati next door to the PNC Tower.

Arlington School  The owner of the old Arlington School at 607 Carthage Ave. in Arlington Heights plans to rehabilitate the school into 15 apartment units over the building's three levels for about $4 million.

The Jasper  Developers are planning to convert the old R.K. LeBlond Machine Tool Co. factory into a $70 million luxury apartment complex with 271 units.

Pogue  Developers are planning to covert the old Pogue's warehouse Downtown at 310 Race St. into 106 apartments.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Rents dip at end of last year bringing respite to Cincinnati renters
Want to curl up by the fire at the beach? The City of Atlantic Beach allows fires on the beach for $25 permits.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Fires are allowed on Atlantic Beach from Nov. 1 to Feb. 28 for those willing to pay for a simple $25 permit.

No open fires are allowed on the beach during sea turtle nesting season by Florida State law.

For more information on fire permits or to apply, visit coab.us/299/Permits-Rentals.

Read: Jacksonville Zoo offering 25% off general admission tickets for AAA card members

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Dexter Scott King is being remembered as a guardian of his father and mothers legacies. King died Monday at age 62 after battling prostate cancer.

He was living in California, but his lifes impact was being felt here in metro Atlanta.

A man who knew both him and his father, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., said Dexter King had a significant responsibility -- protecting his fathers legacy.

Ambassador Andrew Young remembers Dexter King as a good boy who grew to be a great man. He told Channel 2s Berndt Petersen time and again that many people would do a double-take when they saw him.

There was no question he looked most like his father. He even talked like his father, Young said.

Young remembers the boy who was only 7 years old when his father was assassinated, and the man who inherited his fathers legacy.

He spent most of his life trying to protect that legacy, Young said.

Young said Dexters role as the longtime chairman of the King Center was the perfect place to handle that responsibility.

He was a civil rights leader, an author, and an actor.

Dexter King graduated from Frederick Douglass High School, and like his father, was a Morehouse man.

Young said the father would have been very proud of the son.

I think hes proud of the way his family carried on in his absence. But again, I always say we are not in his absence, Young said.

RELATED STORIES:

Xernona Clayton helped Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. coordinate marches and served as a trusted friend.

She told Channel 2s Karyn Greer that she was at a loss for words Monday afternoon when she heard Dexter King lost his battle with prostate cancer.

I was just sick, well, for lots of reasons, Clayton said. One is, for the Kings to have another tragedy is sad at any point. Dexter was one of those sweet guys, was just ambitious from a youngster. He was going to solve all the problems of the world. I remember when he was in college, the first year in college he said he was going to solve everything, and he went on to explain to me all the things he was going to do.

Clayton says despite the loss, she knows the King family will make sure Dexter Kings legacy will shine on.

They are a fruitful family, a productive family, an imaginative family, a blessed family. So, I guess this will be another moment to test their strength, Clayton said.

Clayton also remembered a story where Dexter and Martin pleaded with their father not to leave on a trip to Memphis. She was there to drive him to the airport.

She said it was as if Dexter and Martin Luther King III knew their father would not return home.

She said he truly was a visionary and will be missed.

His sister, Dr. Bernice King, tweeted out a statement late Monday afternoon, saying:

I cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling, my brother, Dexter. Im praying for strength to get through this very difficult time.

The family told Channel 2 Action News it is still finalizing funeral plans for Dexter King.

I cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling, my brother, Dexter. Im praying for strength to get through this very difficult time. pic.twitter.com/enk6lJwNDi  Be A King (@BerniceKing) January 22, 2024




A woman and two children drowned recently in the Rio Grande because, according to reports, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott prohibited U.S. Border Patrol officers from the area and state officials prevented them from heeding her cry for help. Add these deaths to the imminent dangers of Abbotts dehumanizing busing of migrants to Illinois in the midst of subzero temperatures, without so much as warm clothes.

Gov. J.B. Pritzkers recent letter put Abbott on notice about the life-threatening circumstances that the Texas governor is placing people in when he sends them unprepared to Northern cities in the middle of winter. The Texas governors actions have crossed the line from callous political games to human rights violations.

It is time for the federal government to hold Abbott accountable for policies that violate U.S. law and human rights norms and to ensure that people exercising their right to seek protection at our southern border receive humane treatment rather than punishment.

 Mary Meg McCarthy, executive director, National Immigrant Justice Center, Chicago

Is it a stunt or a plea?

Regarding the editorial House Republicans, listen to the American people on the border crisis and negotiate (Jan. 17): I do take issue with the one-sidedness of the editorial. The cartoon accompanying the editorial, depicting the issue, would have been more accurate if it had been of the elephant and the donkey butting heads with immigrants and Ukraine caught in the middle.

The editorial itself is surprisingly disappointing in its intent of shifting immigration reform and the lack thereof to the GOP. Senate Bill 505, the Immigration Parole Reform Act, was introduced in 2023, and it was a far cry from what was needed to ensure border security.

The House passed House Resolution 2, the Secure the Border Act, and it was placed on the Senate calendar in May, with a response of silence.

So here we are in January, with both sides at loggerheads and still far removed from stopping the unprecedented flow of immigrants from Latin American countries into the U.S. Shame on both parties for their inability to reach a compromise for the benefit of the U.S. And to be clear: Ukraine security is important, and stopping Vladimir Putin is essential, but so is protecting the U.S. and its citizens with better border security.

And on that unpopular note: The editorial comments about Chicagos struggle to care for the thousands of migrants bused from Texas. It notes that Republicans in border states  notably Texas  have convinced blue-state America that the border is a crisis. I live in a blue state. I know the border is a crisis. I dont need Republicans from border states or Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts busing of immigrants to Chicago and to other sanctuary states to tell me this. Abbott did exploit weaknesses; yet, the startling lack of response from the White House and our legislative branch is the reason for this.

Look at the facts. In fiscal year 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol recorded approximately 2.4 million encounters with immigrants at the southern border  the worst year ever. Consider the numbers of immigrants sent to sanctuary cities, and subtract that from the total, and you, too, if you were the governor of Texas, would make a statement about being flooded with immigrants.

Is the busing of immigrants a political stunt or a plea to look at the problems of the border states?

 Sarah Beyne, Northbrook

Trumps Roe bragging

Monday is the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Courts 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. This decision affirmed womens right to make their own decisions about reproduction and whether to terminate a pregnancy.

In todays political environment, two facts stand out. First, protecting a womans reproductive rights is strongly supported by a majority of adults in this country. Second, former President Donald Trump has assumed credit for getting Roe overturned.

If President Joe Biden and the Democrats are smart, they will use Trumps bragging as an affirmation of how out of touch Trump is with the majority of voters in the U.S.

For most Americans, the overturning of Roe was not an event to celebrate but rather to mourn.

 Ken Derow, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania

IRS is just doing its job

I write in regards to an unartful headline describing the Internal Revenue Service: IRS took $360M in taxes from rich (Jan. 13). It would have been more accurate and less pejorative to state that the IRS collected or even Millionaires paid 

Tax collection is a proper function of government. To say the IRS took taxes is both grammatically poor, as well as misleading. It implies the IRS did something inappropriate, as opposed to collecting taxes that were rightly due.

 Brian White, Chicago

Support for mask wearing

Kathleen Enrights letter (Verdict on mask wearing, Jan. 16) cites New York Times columnist Bret Stephens and the nonprofit organization Cochrane in her contention that mask mandates did not help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Enright would benefit from reading an article in the Nov. 1 issue of Scientific American. Some excerpts from that article:

* Karla Soares-Weiser, the Cochrane Librarys editor in chief, objected to such characterizations of the review. The report had not concluded that masks dont work, she insisted. Rather the review of studies of masking concluded that the results were inconclusive.'

* Still, the authors were also uncertain about that uncertainty, stating that their confidence in their conclusion was low to moderate.'

* In fact, there is strong evidence that masks do work to prevent the spread of respiratory illness. It just doesnt come from (randomized controlled trials). It comes from Kansas. In July 2020 the governor of Kansas issued an executive order requiring masks in public places. Just a few weeks earlier, however, the legislature had passed a bill authorizing counties to opt out of any statewide provision. In the months that followed, COVID rates decreased in all 24 counties with mask mandates and continued to increase in 81 other counties that opted out of them.

The article points out that the absence of proof should not be confused with proof of absence, and many authorities have serious disagreements with Cochranes methodologies. It also points out that to the chagrin of every major organization promoting dental health, Cochrane also published a review that led to news reports stating that flossing your teeth was a waste of time.

 Dr. Elliot Weisenberg, Chicago

Note to readers: We invite you to follow Marty Malones lead and send us your suggestions for a new slogan for Chicago. Legitimate suggestions are preferred, but humorous ones are welcome, too. Keep them sincere and good-natured. Email us your ideas at letters@chicagotribune.com. Youre welcome to include your thinking behind your idea. Be sure to limit your letters to no more than 400 words.

Join the conversation in our Letters to the Editor Facebook group.

Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
A group of fishermen trapped on a sheet of floating ice on Lake Erie are all safely ashore, authorities said Monday afternoon.

Twenty people were stranded on an ice floe a mile off shore near Catawba Island State Park in Ohio, according to the USCG Great Lakes division, who received the initial call around 10:20 a.m.

Two airboats, one helicopter and local authorities were sent to assist with the rescue operation, a Coast Guard spokesperson shared with USA TODAY Monday.

The U.S. Coast Guard, out of the Marblehead station, return from the rescue of ice fishermen on Monday.

Nine people were rescued by airboat, four people were rescued by local authorities and the other seven were able to rescue themselves, according to an update by the Coast Guard.

Shifting winds were to blame for the big crack in the ice that initially left the group of fishermen stranded, according to the Fremont News Messenger, part of the USA TODAY Network.

No injuries have been reported.

BREAKING NEWS: At least 20 people are stranded on an ice floe near Catawba Island State Park, the U.S. Coast Guard says. Rescue efforts are underway. pic.twitter.com/Vze529CxKE  13 Action News (@13abc) January 22, 2024

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lake Erie rescue: Coast Guard recovers group stranded on ice floe
LAFAYETTE, Ind.  At Thursday's LEAP-focused town hall, local representatives elaborated on last month's meeting held with Gov. Eric Holcomb, which halted any additional progress on the LEAP pipeline development.

Local officials also updated residents on the progress of bills in the Indiana General Assembly aimed at addressing concerns about water rights.

Last year, the Indiana Economic Development Corp. proposed to tap the Wabash River aquifer southwest of Lafayette and pump up to 100 million gallons of water a day across one-third of the state to the Lebanon site for the LEAP industrial site along Interstate 65.

Tom Murtaugh, Tippecanoe County Commissioner elaborates on the meeting he and other local representatives held with Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb last month with people attending the 'We the People' town hall on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Lafayette, Ind.

Since then, the momentum behind this project has significantly slowed as counties all along the Wabash River vocalized their opposition to the plan due to a variety of concerns and a lack of information regarding the plan.

Thursday's town hall was held by We The People, an activist group against the LEAP project. They invited Eric Doden, a candidate running for governor, as well as other local representatives and a local activist group against the LEAP project, Stop the Water Steal, to speak to residents.

They acknowledged that this was done, entirely wrong

Holcomb, House Speaker Todd Huston and state Senate President Pro Temp Rodric Bray visited Lafayette last month in an unprecedented move to discuss the future of the LEAP pipeline with local leaders.

At the time, not much information about that meeting was released  other than two news releases. One release was from the governors office, and the other was from the Greater Lafayette Commerces office.

The news last month was that the state would stop all action on developing the water pipeline until the Indiana Finance Authority completed its water feasibility study.

Tippecanoe County Commissioner Tom Murtaugh provided more detail Thursday about the December meeting.

They acknowledged that this was done, entirely wrong," Murtaugh said. "That the IEDC had made significant mistakes here, and this never should have been put into their hands.

They said in that meeting that this pipeline would not move forward at this point and that the ... study had been going would cease, and there would be no more testing in regards to that. (And) that the Indiana Finance Authority would be taking over the role of doing tests.

Murtaugh also explained that moving forward, when conducting water supply testing, the Indiana Finance Authority would be moving away from the single-point test site used by the company hired by the economic development corporation, opting instead to focus on a multi-point testing system.

There were several promises that the governor made to the local government regarding the development of this project or any similar projects in the future.

"Any pipeline, no matter what it looked like or where it came from, they guaranteed that it would have to go through the legislative process," Murtaugh said. "And that is really key because we had been told previously that a pipeline could be funded from the (Innovation Development Districts) that was spoken about earlier.

"We had been told that technically it could be funded without ever going through any state process. So to hear that it would have to go through the legislative process is a good thing because that does allow us a public hearing, that allows input so that our state legislators can actually hear that and vote on that publicly."

An Innovation Development District is a tool similar to a Tax Increment Financing District, which would allow the Indiana Economic Development Corp. to capture certain state and local incremental tax revenues that can be reinvested to support the Innovation Development Districts or the growth of the state's high-technology economy.

It would essentially give the Indiana Economic Development Corp. the ability to generate revenue for the District from incremental sales, state income, and property tax.

Local groups like Stop the Water Steal have called for the legislative body to repeal the Indiana Economic Development Corp.'s ability to create Innovation Development Districts.

David Sanders, West Lafayette City Councilman, Chair and Founder of Stop the Water Steal speaks to people at the 'We the People' town hall on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Lafayette, Ind.

The main consequence of the establishment of Innovation Development Districts is to encourage the (Indiana Economic Development Corp.) to act solely in its own interests rather than those of the citizens of local communities and the state," David Sanders, West Lafayette City Councilman, Chair and Founder of Stop the Water Steal said in a press release in December.

"The media has documented the extensive conflicts of interest that pervade the (Indiana Economic Development Corp.). Proceeding with the plans for the LEAP pipeline displays the disregard that the IEDC has for local communities and government, who have united in their opposition to the transfer of water from the Tippecanoe County aquifers. The Indiana General Assembly should reassert its supervision of the IEDC by repealing (Senate Bill) 361-2022.

Beyond that, the governor also promised that the county and local governments would be allowed to conduct third-party reviews of any studies that are completed by the Indiana Finance Authority.

Murtaugh explained that Jim McGoff, the COO and director of Environmental Programs of the Indiana Finance Authority, would lead the authority's new study which is expected to be completed

"The governor has committed that the study in this area will not be from a single-point (test) along the Wabash River and Tippecanoe County. It'll be a 14-county study, a comprehensive study," Murtaugh said.

"What Mr. McGoff stated to us was he completely disagrees with (economic development corporation's contractor) concept of using a single source. In fact, he referred to it as poking a straw into the ground and sucking as much water up as you can. And that is not the answer to long-term water stability for the state.

"He said what is likely the answer here is multiple sources, you know five, seven, ten different sources that feed into any areas that are lacking in water resources. This 14-county study, Mr. McGoff agreed to be completely transparent on this process unlike what IEDC studied for."

People review a list of legislators they could call in hopes of persuading them to approve state Sen. Spencer Deerys and state Rep.Sharon Negeles bill dealing with water rights for the state, at the 'We the People' town hall on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Lafayette, Ind.

Murtaugh also explained that the Indiana Finance Authority would be creating a website where people can track the progress of the study, provide comments and state any concerns people may notice during the process of testing.

The Indiana Finance Authority will also be sending out mailers to any individuals whose water may have been or will be affected during the period of testing.

Sheila Klinker: I really think this program is in trouble

Sheila Klinker was the only state representative at Thursdays town hall, but during the meeting, she thanked the people in the audience for forcing this issue of water rights into the public eye and in turn the legislative bodys eye.

Sheila Klinker, Indiana state Rep. speaks to people at the 'We the People' town hall on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Lafayette, Ind.

This is an issue that I think in my years as a legislator, Ive never seen such an issue where everyone was together in this community on fighting the LEAP project. It is really incredible that so many of you have come out and that we as the legislators are working together, Klinker said.

I think, frankly, the governor is working to have the state supersede local control on this issue. I think youve been told that. But I think this is such an important issue, 9,000 acres have been bought for this issue.

Klinker also expressed her hope that either state Sen. Spencer Deerys or state Rep. Sharon Negeles bill will be picked up by a committee and voted on within the upcoming weeks.

We all work together. Thats the nice part about this Sharon Negele, Chris Campbell, Spencer Deery and Ron Alting, all of us working together, which you dont always see in politics, she said.

Klinker also mentioned how early Thursday morning, she had spoken with former Vice President and former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence about the issue of LEAP and how she believes that he is looking into the matter.

I really think this program is in trouble.

Noe Padilla is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email him at Npadilla@jconline.com and follow him on Twitter at 1NoePadilla

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Tippecanoe commissioner provides new info on LEAP pipeline study
The country home of Concorde Capital investment company founder Ihor Mazepa, suspected by the State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) of fraud, burned down in Chernihiv Oblast on Jan. 22, the companys press service told NV, providing some photos of the aftermath.

The blaze reportedly began at 3:30 a.m.

The family home, located in Mazepa's hometown of Kartovetske, was registered under his mother's name.

Read also: Court detains Concorde Capital founder Ihor Mazepa with $9.3 million bail

Ihor Mazepa, founder and CEO of the Concorde Capital investment company, has been placed in pre-trial detention with bail set at UAH 350 million ($9.3 million), as stipulated in a Jan. 19 court ruling.

Mazepa was arrested on Jan. 18, when he was crossing the Polish-Ukrainian border on his way to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos. Police also detained two other people suspected of the unlawful privatization of land for real estate development near Kyiv.

Read also: Manifest of lawlessness  political scientist on businessman Mazepas detention

Ukraines State Bureau of Investigations alleged that Mazepa orchestrated a plan to illegally seize land previously used by the Kyiv Hydroelectric Power Plant.

NV Business sources previously reported that Mazepas detention is linked to having obtained land rights to build the Goodlife Park cottage town in the Vyshhorod district of Kyiv Oblast.

Photo of the consequences of the fire in Mazepa's country house



Concorde Capital

Concorde Capital

Concorde Capital

What the house looked like before the fire



Concorde Capital

Concorde Capital

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
An illustration depicts the Mars helicopter Ingenuity on the Red Planet. On Thursday, communications ceased with the craft after it made an unplanned landing. Photo courtesy of NASA

Jan. 22 (UPI) -- NASA has restored contact with its little Perseverance Mars helicopter, which had gone silent after 72nd mission, the space agency said.

Communication ceased with the vehicle Thursday after its mission. But on Saturday, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif., said on social media that contact had been re-established, and that team members were reviewing fresh data to get a better understanding of what led to the communication blackout.

The $80 million helicopter craft first landed on Martian surface in April 2021 and was meant to test a powered, controlled mission on a different planet.

The Ingenuity demonstration was completed after three successful flights and then transitioned to a new operations demonstration phase "to explore how future rovers and aerial explorers can work together."
The family of a Chicago man wrongly pronounced dead by paramedics is a step closer to receiving a $5 million settlement from the city.

Members of the City Councils Committee on Finance voted Monday to recommend the settlement for the family of Whitfield Marshall Jr. Marshall died in February 2019 shortly after he was hospitalized following paramedics incorrectly determining he was already dead.

Marshalls family arrived at his Near West Side home after the medics had pronounced him, only to hear him grumble, city attorney Margaret Casey told aldermen.

The family arrived four hours later to make preparations for Mr. Marshalls body, heard Mr. Marshall moaning and called 911, she said.

The father of three was rushed to the hospital, but never regained consciousness. Days later, his family elected to take him off life support. His family alleges the delayed treatment caused Marshall to suffer brain damage, Casey said.

The two Chicago Fire Department employees who wrongly determined he was dead are no longer employed by the department, she added.

Paramedics in this matter spent less than 15 seconds assessing Mr. Marshall, Casey said.

Casey told the committee the city could be forced to pay even more than the costly settlement if the case goes to court. In a voice vote, only Ald. Bill Conway, 34th, voted against recommending the settlement. The West Loop alderman shared doubts a court would award Marshalls family $5 million because of the mans preexisting health issues.

But in the brief hearing, Ald. Daniel La Spata threw his support behind the deal, calling Marshalls death truly heartbreaking and sad, he said.

This settlement is more than justified, he said

Aldermen recommended three additional settlements Monday expected to cost the city another $2.5 million.

For Maya Kirk, who suffered a fractured thigh bone and needed two surgeries after a lamp pole fell on her as she walked near the Thompson Center on LaSalle Street in November 2019, the committee passed a $2 million settlement recommendation.

Kirk was struck in the head by an ornamental lamp pole and slammed to the ground, Casey told the committee. She was left with $255,000 in medical bills, a half-moon scar on her face and another long scar on her leg, as well as a permanent limp and intermittent pain.

A survey paid for by the city and completed by a contractor had previously determined the pole had routine rusting, according to Casey  a revelation with which Ald. Jeannette Taylor, 20th, took issue.

When Taylor pressed, Casey was unable to answer whether the contractor was on a do-not-hire list.

We could have took that $2 million and fixed a bunch of poles, Taylor said. What are the repercussions for that contractor?

Taylor and Conway voted against the settlement.

Aldermen agreed without pushback to recommend a $375,000 settlement for Jeffrey Haag, who Casey said needed neck surgery after a police officers car rolled through a stop sign and hit him at South Stony Island Avenue and East 85th Street in September 2019.

Officers were checking the license plate of another car when the crash occurred, she said.

In another approved settlement, the committee recommended a $300,000 settlement for Anthony Brown, who city attorney Caroline Fronczak said was shot in the back while running from police in March 2018.

Officers at the time said Brown was manipulating something in his pocket, though the shooting was not recorded by body cameras. Police later found a firearm in his possession, but the Civilian Office of Police Accountability determined the shooting violated department policy, Fronczak said.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com
We now have new revelations of corruption in the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army resulting in, among other things, missiles filled with water instead of fuel and missile silos with lids that dont function. According to U.S. officials, this latest bout of corruption led to an erosion of confidence in the [PLAs] overall capabilities and made President Xi Jinping less likely to contemplate major military action. Xi responded by purging at least a dozen PLA leaders implicated in the scandal.

This report is a reminder that the PLA faces significant challenges  and that the United States should use every opportunity to exacerbate those difficulties. But the United States should not use this episode as an excuse to grow complacent.

The preponderance of evidence shows Chinas military is still modernizing rapidly, regardless of corruption. Moreover, even if Xis confidence in the PLA took a hit last year, he is clearly committed to correcting deficiencies as quickly as possible, and there is a good chance he will succeed.

Mao Zedong said power grows out of the barrel of a gun, and Xi Jinping clearly agrees. According to CIA Director William Burns, Xi has directed the PLA to be ready to seize Taiwan by 2027, and he has invested Chinas resources accordingly. Not only did China prioritize defense spending over other investments during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it also reportedly spends far more on defense than previously understood  perhaps as much as $700 billion per year. At the same time, Xi is personally invested in keeping PLA modernization on track and has significantly improved oversight of the PLA to that end.

The results are clear: The PLA is modernizing rapidly across warfighting domains. Chinas air forces, for instance, will enjoy a significant numerical advantage near Taiwan and are increasingly capable, with improving threat sensors and post-processing capabilities, airborne early warning and control aircraft, fifth-generation fighters, and long-range air-to-air missiles.

Meanwhile, Chinas naval force is the worlds largest, with highly capable warships and large paramilitary and civilian fleets at its disposal. It is also still growing  quickly  while the U.S. Navy shrinks by the year. Trends may also favor China in space, cyberspace and electronic warfare, and Chinese military exercises are increasingly sophisticated and realistic.

China may struggle in electromagnetic spectrum fighting, Pentagon says

The PLA Rocket Force  the focus of the latest corruption scandal  is making strides, too. China already boasts a massive arsenal of ballistic and cruise missiles, while Chinas nuclear forces are on track to nearly quadruple in size in the next decade. China is also at the forefront of missile technology, especially in hypersonics. In 2021, for instance, China shocked the world by testing a fractional orbital bombardment system armed with a hypersonic glide vehicle. According to the U.S. Defense Department, China is probably also developing an additional strategic hypersonic glide vehicle, more survivable intercontinental-range ballistic missiles and a conventional intercontinental missile.

These are impressive accomplishments by any objective measure, and they occurred despite the PLAs ongoing problems with corruption. Consequently, shocking as these recent revelations are, American policymakers should not bet on corruption to hamstring PLA modernization, nor should they expect corruption or the effects of it to stay Xis hand. If they want to avoid war, they must instead take China seriously and prioritize investing in Americas ability to deter this powerful rival.

Unfortunately, the Biden administration has made clear it wants to focus less on China amid other geopolitical crises and the upcoming presidential election. To that end, the administration has routinely downplayed Chinese threats, from the Chinese spy balloon to the declassification of intelligence about the origin of COVID-19.

Indeed, the timing and content of the recent revelations suggest they are part of a similar campaign to ease pressure on the administration to confront China. But Beijing is not waiting.

The administration may not want to confront China, but Xi Jinping is clearly preparing for war with the United States. So long as the administration is determined to avoid doing what is required to deter China, then risk of conflict will only grow.

Alex Velez-Green is a senior policy adviser with the Allison Center for National Security at the Heritage Foundation think tank. He previously served as national security adviser to Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.
NEW YORK  E. Jean Carroll's defamation damages trial against Donald Trump was postponed on Monday due to a sick juror, and the judge has pushed the proceedings  and Trump's possible testimony  back to Wednesday.

Whether the 2024 Republican front-runner will take the stand remains to be seen. Polls open Tuesday in the New Hampshire primary, as Trump's myriad legal issues and the former president's steamroller campaign continue to collide.

News of the trial delay came as Judge Lewis Kaplan again denied a Team Trump request for a mistrial over Carroll's admission that she had deleted threatening messages she said she'd received from Trump supporters after publicly accusing him of rape in 2019. That motion is going to be denied, Kaplan said.

Juror to be tested for COVID-19

Judge Kaplan told lawyers for Trump and Carroll Monday morning that one juror wasn't feeling well and had been asked to get tested for COVID-19. Trump lawyer Alina Habba, who said she had been exposed to COVID-19 during a recent visit with her parents, also wasn't feeling well. Both she and Trump lawyer Michael Madaio have tested negative, she said.

Carroll lawyer Roberta Kaplan asked the judge to proceed with the trial Monday, but he granted Habba's request for a delay. The results of the juror's test would help determine if the trial resumes Tuesday, the judge said. Later on Monday, an update on the case docket stated the trial wouldn't restart until Wednesday morning.

Habba had asked for arrangements to allow Trump to testify Wednesday, saying he will be tied up with the New Hampshire Republican primary Tuesday. "He was planning to testify," she said.

Trump did not attend court Monday morning.

More: Judge shoots down Trump's mistrial request in New York fraud case, calling claims 'nonsensical'

Defamation and damages

Carroll testified last week that Trump "shattered" her reputation and caused her to live in fear through two lengthy denials of her sexual assault allegation in 2019, including his statement that "people should pay dearly for such false accusations." A jury ruled in a separate civil case in May that Trump had sexually abused Carroll in a New York department store in the mid-1990s.

That verdict carried over to the current civil case, where a new jury is only looking at whether Trump should pay damages  which could be big.

Carroll's legal team has argued not just that Trump should pay damages for the direct harm he caused, but that the financial bill should be enough that even a "self-proclaimed billionaire" will want to stop defaming their client.

Even during the trial, Trump has continued posting on social media that Carroll's accusation is untrue and part of a witch hunt. On Thursday, he posted a series of old tweets by Carroll, an advice columnist who worked at Elle magazine for decades, having to do with sex and relationships between men and women. He did the same Monday.

Trump in court for E. Jean Carroll defamation suit

According to a lawyer for Carroll, the behavior has extended to the courtroom, where Judge Kaplan has already ruled Trump can't argue the allegations are untrue in light of the prior jury's verdict. The lawyer said she overheard the Republican presidential frontrunner commenting within the jury's earshot that Carroll's allegations were a "witch hunt" and "con job." The judge threatened to expel Trump if he disrupts proceedings.

Will Trump testify?

Trump has talked big about his plans for the trial.

He said at a Jan. 11 press conference that he planned to attend and "explain I don't know who the hell she is." On Wednesday, he complained on social media of the judge's refusal to cancel Thursday's proceedings for his mother-in-law's funeral, adding he wants "to be at this Witch Hunt 100% of the time and watch what is going on."

Habba said in a pre-trial letter to the court that Trump can offer "considerable testimony" even within the confines of not being able to deny Carroll's assault accusation. That includes the circumstances surrounding his 2019 denials, which could help show Trump didn't act maliciously and shouldn't face punitive damages, she said.

The lawyer Roberta Kaplan (left) is seen with E. Jean Carroll outside the Daniel Patrick Moynihan United States Courthouse as the defamation civil trial continues against former President Donald Trump continues in New York City on Jan. 22, 2024.

Judge Kaplan ruled Trump would be able to testify Monday even if both sides were otherwise done putting on their cases. As it turned out, Carroll didn't rest her case in advance of Monday's proceedings, and the defense can't call its own witnesses until she does.

Trump backed out of testifying in December as a defense witness in his New York civil fraud trial, where he is fighting the threat of being barred from ever running a New York business again. He later attacked the New York attorney general and the judge from the courtroom in brief closing remarks at the trial, which weren't subject to cross-examination.

In a Saturday letter to Judge Kaplan, Carroll lawyer Roberta Kaplan (no relation to the judge) said her concern was growing that Trump would use any testimony he gives as a campaign event. She cited his courtroom comments so far, including telling the judge he "would love" to be kicked out, and asked Judge Kaplan to ensure his testimony is properly restricted.

Trump was campaigning in New Hampshire on Sunday ahead of the state's Tuesday Republican presidential primary.

Another mistrial request

After last week's courtroom proceedings ended on Thursday, Habba filed a written mistrial request on Friday, which echoed an already-rejected oral request she made in court. Habba pointed to Carroll's testimony about deleting death threats.

Carroll testified that she may have deleted death threats after she filed her lawsuit, characterizing the deletions as an emotional reaction. The Trump team said it violated a rule to preserve electronic information during litigation.

More: In E. Jean Carroll case, expert says Trump could owe $12M (or much more) for defamation

Carroll lawyer Roberta Kaplan shot back Sunday that the question-and-answer exchange on deleting messages "was not a model of clarity" and couldn't possibly show Trump has been denied the right to a fair trial.

Habba said in the Friday motion that, if the judge denied the mistrial request, she wanted him to block Carroll from seeking damages related to any death threat. She also asked him to consider instructing the jury to draw a negative inference against Carroll when it ultimately decides the case.

Judge Kaplan said Monday the motion would be denied in all respects, and he will follow up with a written decision.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: E. Jean Carroll trial updates: Trump defamation case continues
Miami-Dade County is moving to cancel the Miami Seaquariums lease on public waterfront, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a letter Sunday, warning the for-profit attraction that it needs to quickly fix problems with animal care cited by federal inspectors in recent weeks.

The welfare of these animals is paramount, Levine Cava wrote in the letter to Eduardo Albor, CEO of the Dolphin Company, which owns a portfolio of marine-mammal theme parks and negotiated a new lease with Miami-Dade as part of its purchase of the Seaquarium business in 2022.

In light of these distressing circumstances, the mayor continued, the County is diligently reviewing all necessary actions to pursue the termination of the Amended and Restated Lease Agreement.

READ MORE: Miami-Dade puts Seaquarium on notice: 45 days to make fixes cited in federal report

Levine Cava cited federal inspectors string of negative reports about the Seaquarium, including a Nov. 28 report from the United States Agriculture Departments animal-care division citing a manatee suffering from a skin condition, excessive bacteria in the sea lion pool, poor ventilation in the penguin enclosure and dolphin pools in disrepair.

Seaquarium representatives were not immediately available for comment, but in correspondence with Miami-Dade the theme park has denied mistreating the dolphins, sea lions and other animals at the park on Miamis Virginia Key.

Eduardo Albor, CEO of the Dolphin Company, left, listens to Mayor Daniella Levine Cava speak during a press conference on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at the Intercontinental hotel in Downtown Miami when the county and attraction pledged cooperation on finding an open-water home for the Seaquariums aging killer whale, Lolita. Lolita died Aug. 18.

In a Jan. 5 letter to the countys Internal Services Department, which manages the Seaquarium lease, Edwin Gonzalez, an executive at the Miami Seaquarium (MSQ), offered rebuttals for multiple allegations cited by federal inspectors from the USDA in a July inspection of the facility.

MSQ takes its compliance seriously and respectfully requested the USDA consider the additional factual and legal arguments that support the reversal of the inspectors findings, he wrote.

In a joint statement with Levine Cava, Raquel Regalado, the Miami-Dade commissioner whose district includes the Seaquarium site, said the new lease gives the county more authority to take action when park animals are mistreated.

When this operator took control of the facility, we worked together to mandate greater accountability and oversight of the animals, the statement read. We believe it is imperative to address these serious violations decisively and with urgency.

In her letter to Albor, Levine Cava said the USDA has notified the Seaquarium that the agency plans to confiscate four animals at the attraction. Levine Cavas letter offered no details, and a county spokesperson did not provide additional information on Monday afternoon.

Ive been informed that this confiscation is the first time in 30 years that the USDA has taken such a measure with marine mammals, Levine Cava wrote.

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the USDAs Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the Seaquarium had been at risk of losing four animals to the agency earlier this month before the staff took steps to avoid the action.

In response to the death of a male bottlenose dolphin at the Miami Seaquarium on December 27, 2023, APHIS conducted an inspection of the facility on January 9, 2024, citing several Animal Welfare Act (AWA) violations, including a direct citation for lack of appropriate veterinary care for 25 animals, Andre Bell, an APHIS spokesperson, said in an email.

Bell declined to release details about which Seaquarium animals were subjects of the confiscation notice.

APHIS returned to the facility on January 17, 2024, to ensure the violations were corrected and found four of the animals were still in need of immediate veterinary care, Bell said. APHIS issued a notice of intent to confiscate to the facility on January 19, 2024. Miami Seaquarium took necessary corrective action to come into compliance.
The Kyiv Pechersk District court ruled on Jan. 22 to arrest Roman Hrynkevych, one of the suspects allegedly involved in a defense procurement corruption scandal, Hromadske media outlet reported.

Hrynkevych, his father, Ihor, and three more people were accused of supplying the Defense Ministry with low-quality military clothing, causing the ministry to lose Hr 1.2 billion ($31.6 million).

The court ordered the arrest of Hrynkevych until March 17 with an alternative to post bail set at Hr 500 million (around $13 million), according to Hromadske.

Hrynkevychs lawyer reportedly said they would appeal against the courts decision the next day.

Roman Hrynkevych is the last suspect to have been put into custody. The other four defendants of this case were previously arrested with the same bail.

The State Bureau of Investigation, known by its Ukrainian acronym DBR, detained Roman Hrynkevych in Odesa Oblast early on Jan. 22 when he was allegedly preparing to cross the border into an EU country.

Ihor Hrynkevych was one of the leading suppliers for the Defense Ministry, winning 23 tenders with his companies. He failed to complete the contracts as the goods his company had supplied were inappropriate for use by the Ukrainian military, according to law enforcement.

The Defense Ministry announced on Jan. 17 that it had terminated the last contract with the businessman's companies.

Since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion, Ukraine's Defense Ministry has been involved in several corruption scandals.

The two most notorious scandals, one regarding inflated prices for food supplies and the other connected to low-quality winter jackets, prompted the dismissal of former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov.

Read also: Investigative Stories From Ukraine: Another procurement scandal spotlights Defense Ministry contractor

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Shevchenkivskyi District Court of Kyiv left Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskyi in custody until 2 March but reduced bail from UAH 3.9 billion (about US$105 million) to UAH 2.65 billion (about US$78 million).

Source: the Suspilne media outlet with reference to the decision of the corresponding meeting

Details: The prosecutors requested to keep Kolomoiskyi in custody for the duration of the pre-trial investigation.

At the same time, Kolomoiskyis lawyers insisted on changing the restrictive measure from custody to home arrest in the village of Mykilske-on-Dnipro in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, mainly due to his poor health.

The court also rejected a request to release Kolomoiskyi under guaranty.

Background:

On 28 November 2023 the Shevchenkivskyi District Court of the city of Kyiv continued the restrictive measure for oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskyi in the form of custody with an alternative of UAH 3.7 billion (about US$105 million) bail until 26 January.

On 2 September, the Security Service of Ukraine, the Economic Security Bureau and the Prosecutor General's Office served Kolomoiskyi with a notice of suspicion under Articles 190 and 209 of the Criminal Code for fraud and legalisation (laundering) of property obtained by criminal means. Later Kolomoiskyi was served with two more notices of suspicion about illegal withdrawal of a total of UAH 15 billion (about US$406 million) from Privatbank.

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SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  In an open letter to President Joe Biden, 16 Republican governors  including Utah Gov. Spencer Cox  are urging the president to reverse his administrations mandate to require more electric vehicles on the market within the next 10 years.

In December, the Biden Administration announced its goal of having at least 50% of all new vehicle sales to be electric by the year 2030. The Biden Administration said its commitment to electric vehicles will boost access to EVs, save taxpayer dollars while tackling the climate crisis.

The 16 Republican governors opposed the administrations mandates for two out of every three new cars to be built with an electric battery by 2032. In their letter, the governors said Americans should be able to maintain their choice of what vehicle they choose to drive.

Salt Lake City Council voices strong opposition to gender bathroom bill

While we are not opposed to the electric vehicle marketplace, we do have concerns with federal government mandates that penalize retailers and do not reflect the will of the consumer, the governors wrote in their letter. Even with deep price cuts, manufacturers incentives and generous government funding, federal mandates on electric vehicles are unrealistic. The American customer should be able to decide what technology makes the most sense for them, not the federal government.

Electric vehicles have been praised as an alternative for transportation, offering better fuel economy, lower fuel costs, and a reduction in emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electric vehicles can save money in the long run despite a higher price point when first buying the car. Still, electric vehicles have faced criticism in recent weeks as many owners have reported a drop in performance in the freezing cold temperatures that spread throughout the United States.

Gov. Cox and his fellow 15 Republican governors called Bidens mandates for electric vehicle production unrealistic and costly.

Gov. Cox signs 1st bill of 2024 session, pushing start of social media restrictions back to October

Therefore, we request you remove your mandate that two out of every three vehicles be electric and instead provide a more realistic approach by allowing the free market to determine the direction and timing for the industrys growth rather than the federal government, the governors said. Let American consumers decide for themselves.

Joining Gov. Cox in signing the open letter were Gov. Sarah Sanders (R-AR), Gov. Brad Little (R-ID), Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA), Gov. Jeff Landry (R-LA), Gov. Mike Parson (R-MO), Gov. Greg Gianforte (R-MT), Gov. Jim Pillen (R-NE), Gov. Joe Lombardo (R-NV), Gov. Chris Sununu (R-NH), Gov. Doug Burgum (R-ND), Gov. Kevin Stitt (R-OK), Gov. Kristi Noem (R-SD), Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX), Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) and Gov. Mark Gordon (R-WY).

You can see the full open letter here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
More than two years after the Oxford High School massacre, a historic trial begins this week for Jennifer and James Crumbley, as prosecutors seek to do what has never been done before: hold parents criminally responsible for a deadly mass school shooting.

After months of legal feuding and mudslinging by lawyers, it will finally be up to a jury to decide this unprecedented and significant issue. Legal experts stress that the first critical task at hand, jury selection, could ultimately decide the case.

At 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, a pool of prospective jurors will fill a courtroom in Pontiac, where both sides will try to seat an impartial jury that can set aside their emotions and opinions, and decide the fate of a mother whose teenage son murdered four classmates, using a gun his parents had bought him as an early Christmas present.

James and Jennifer Crumbley are charged with involuntary manslaughter, though the wife will go to trial first; the husband's trial is scheduled to start March 5. The charges are linked to their son Ethan Crumbley, who at 15 killed four and wounded seven people at his school on Nov. 30, 2021. The son pleaded guilty and was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison.

Jennifer Crumbley, sat to the left of attorney Mariell Lehman as her husband, James Crumbley sat to the right in the Oakland County courtroom of Judge Cheryl Matthews on March 22, 2022, regarding pretrial matters.

The prosecution has long portrayed the Crumbleys as selfish and uncaring parents who ignored a mentally troubled son and bought him a gun instead of getting him help. The defense, however, says the parents had no way of knowing their son was going to shoot up his school, that the gun at issue was properly secured and that the charges are an overreach for parents everywhere.

"Jury selection will be especially important in this case," said former federal prosecutor Mark Chutkow, stressing: "Given the risks of a hung jury in a groundbreaking case like this, the prosecutors will be looking for nonpolarizing jurors who can work collaboratively with people of different backgrounds to reach a verdict."

Veteran defense attorney Art Weiss said picking open-minded jurors will be key, though noted the verdict could come down to this: "Who is better at jury selection may have an edge."

Jurors will no doubt have a daunting task in an emotional and complex case involving parental rights, guns, mental health and the pervasive problem of gun violence in America's schools. Perhaps most noteworthy, if the Crumbleys are convicted, this could set a legal precedent for parents everywhere.

Here's what jurors have to decide

To win their case, the prosecution must convince the jury that the Crumbleys were grossly negligent by ignoring a mentally ill son who was spiraling out of control, and bought him a gun instead of getting him help. Prosecutors must show that the shooter's actions were "reasonably foreseeable" given what his parents knew about him: He was depressed, lonely, hallucinating, texting his mom that he was seeing demons throw bowls around the house, and hearing toilets flush when no one was home.

Prosecutors also argue the parents, more than anyone else, could have prevented the shooting had they disclosed to the school that their son had access to a gun on the morning they were summoned to the school over his troubling behavior. Ethan Crumbley had drawn on a math worksheet a picture of a gun, a bleeding body, and the words, "The thoughts won't stop, help me."

The parents vowed to get their son help in the coming days, then returned to their jobs without telling school officials their son had access to a gun. Their son went back to class. Two hours later, he emerged from a school bathroom and opened fire, killing four students and injuring seven others, including a teacher.

Why prosecutors say the parents are responsible

At issue, legal experts say, are two key questions: Did the parents know or "reasonably foresee" that their son might shoot up his school? And, did they have a legal duty to inform the school that their son had access to a gun?

The prosecution argues the answer to both questions is yes.

"The duty owed here is to prevent the community from their son intentionally harming somebody when they knew he was preoccupied with violent material, that he had access to a gun, he could use it when he wanted to and he was disturbed," Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald argued previously. "It's a parental duty. It goes far beyond careless. It's gross negligence."

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald speaks to the press after the sentencing of the Oxford School shooter in the courtroom of Judge Kwame Rowe a at the Oakland County Courthouse on Friday, Dec. 08, 2023.

At trial, prosecutors plan to show jurors text messages the shooter sent a friend about his mental health problems and a journal he kept before the shooting, in which he claimed his parents ignored his pleas for help.

"I will cause the biggest school shooting in Michigans history. I will kill everyone I f------ see," Ethan Crumbley allegedly wrote in one entry. "I have fully mentally lost it after years of fighting my dark side. My parents wont listen to me about help or a therapist."

In another journal entry, he wrote: "I have zero help with my mental problems and its causing me to shoot the school. My parents wont listen to me.

Defense attorneys Shannon Smith and Mariell Lehman, who are representing the Crumbleys, have long maintained that their clients never saw this journal, did not know about it, nor about text messages their son sent to a friend in which he alleged his parents wouldn't get him help for his mental health struggles.

Moreover, the defense has long argued that there is no evidence that the teen ever told his parents that he planned to carry out a mass shooting, nor is there any evidence that the parents knew he would do this.

"The element that they can never prove is that Jennifer and James Crumbley knew that their son was going to commit the school shooting," Smith said. "The prosecution knows this, which is why they stretched hard to make these people look like the worst parents in the world."

Picking the jury: Cut anyone 'too polarizing'

Defense lawyers and prosecutors alike concede that in picking the jury for the Crumbleys, anyone who comes off as too polarizing or too opinionated should be excused.

"I learned as a prosecutor that rather than look for individual jurors who might be good for the government's case, it is more important to think of the jury collectively," said former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor in Detroit. She noted the jurors in the Crumbleys' trials, as in all trials, will need to work together to follow the law and reach decisions based on facts.

"I would remove anyone who would be too polarizing, even if I thought they might otherwise favor my side, because they might make the job of the group more difficult," McQuade said.

Longtime criminal defense attorney Bill Swor stressed the defense will want jurors "who demonstrate their ability to think independently and analytically." Perhaps most noteworthy, he said: "They will look for people who are skeptical of the government."

Gun issues a factor in selecting jurors

Weiss agreed, saying he would want Crumbley jurors who are "skeptical of governmental heavy-handedness" and "willing to stand up for what they believe is right, regardless of how others may feel."

Weiss cautioned, however, that the topic of guns should be "broached carefully" when questioning jurors in this case, stressing that some people are "very lofty about being very, very careful" with how guns are used, while others have a more "anything goes" attitude.

Chutkow, a former federal prosecutor who has tried numerous cases, agrees, noting: "Gun owners and gun-rights advocates might be risky for both parties."

"On the one hand, such jurors might not appreciate how the Crumbleys handled their son's gun," Chutkow said. "On the other hand, they might not like the idea of expanding criminal responsibility for someone else's misuse of a gun."

From a prosecutor's perspective, Chutkow said, the prosecution will be looking for jurors with life and professional career experience, particularly those with backgrounds in managing or supervising others. They will also try to identify people with a strong sense of personal responsibility and accountability.

"Such jurors might be critical of the Crumbleys' oversight of their son, (given) the fact they gave a gun to a kid in his mental state, and that they didn't take him out of school when they learned of his disturbing drawings."

Multiple courts have spoken: Jury must decide Crumbleys' fates

From the time of the Crumbleys' arrests, the defense has sought to have the case dismissed, though multiple courts have ruled against them, concluding a jury should hear the case.

The first judge to do this was 52-3 District Court Judge Julie Nicholson, who on Feb. 24, 2022, ordered the Crumbleys to stand trial on involuntary manslaughter charges, concluding they could have stopped the rampage that was carried out by their "troubled" son.

"The court finds that the deaths of the four victims could have been avoided if James and Jennifer Crumbley exercised ordinary care and diligence in the care of their son," Nicholson said in reaching her decision. "There was extensive testimony that Ethan Crumbley was certainly a troubled young man, and that the (parents) had knowledge of that situation. But they purchased a gun, which he believed was his and and that he was free to use."

The Crumbleys appealed.

On March 23, 2023, the Michigan Court of Appeals ordered the Crumbleys to stand trial, concluding their son's act of terror was "reasonably foreseeable, and that is the ultimate test that must be applied."

"The record squarely supports that 'but for' (the Crumbleys') acts and omissions, (Ethan Crumbley) would not have killed the victims that day," the appeals court ruled. The court added: "a reasonable fact-finder could conclude that (the son) would not have been able to shoot and kill four students but for (his parents') decision to purchase their mentally disturbed son a handgun, their failure to properly secure the gun, and most importantly, their refusal to remove (their son) from school when he made overt threats to hurt other people. 'But for' (the parents') informed decision to leave (their son) at school, these murders would not have occurred that day."

The Crumbleys appealed to the Michigan Supreme Court, which refused to hear the case and consequently sent it to trial.

Other parents admit to crimes in shootings

While the Crumbleys hold the title as the first parents in America charged in a mass school shooting, other parents have recently faced a similar fate for similar gun crimes.

And they've been convicted.

Just last month in Illinois, in a case similar to the Crumbleys, the father of the accused Highland Park mass shooter started his 60-day prison sentence after pleading guilty to reckless conduct on the day his trial was to start. Illinois prosecutors argued the father should have known his son was a danger to the public when the son applied for a gun ownership identification card.

The shooter, Robert Crimo III, was 19 at the time and needed a parent to sign his application. His dad obliged, even though he allegedly knew his son had violent ideations, threatened suicide and expressed an interest in committing a mass shooting. Crimo is charged with murdering seven people and injuring 48 others during a Fourth of July parade in downtown Highland Park in 2022.

Also this year, the mother of a 6-year-old who shot his first-grade teacher in Virginia pleaded guilty to child neglect and lying on a background check about her marijuana use while purchasing a handgun  the gun her son used to shoot his teacher. The boy said he took the gun from his moms purse. The mom said she is taking responsibility because her child cannot. She got 21 months in prison.

The Crumbleys, meanwhile, present the biggest test yet as prosecutors in Michigan seek to hold the parents criminally liable for the deaths of the four students killed, which has never been done before.

The Illinois and Virginia cases did not involve involuntary manslaughter charges, though both had elements similar to the Michigan case: the Illinois father should have known their son was a danger to others, while the Ohio parent was negligent in leaving her gun in an insecure place where her child could get it.

The Crumbleys are accused of both: knowing their son was a danger yet buying him a gun anyway and giving him easy access.

Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Crumbleys finally go to trial in historic Oxford school shooting case
A majority of experts said they believe a crisis in the Taiwan Strait is likely in 2024, with a Chinese blockade or quarantine of the island seen as the most likely scenario.

Thats according to a new survey from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), which asked 87 leading U.S. and Taiwanese experts on cross-strait relations for their expectations for the future.

Most of these experts said China has the capabilities to execute a law enforcement led-quarantine [or] a Peoples Liberation Army (PLA)-led blockade of Taiwan, but fewer believed a forceful invasion was possible.

The survey draws a distinction between a quarantine and a blockade. According to the report, a quarantine against Taiwan  the stifling of commercial routes by Chinese, nonmilitary actors  would signal a plan to coerce rather than usurp Taiwanese government.

A military blockade by the PLA would likely signal a goal to force immediate unification in the next five years.

A crisis is defined as a significant increase in cross-strait tensions that is accompanied by at least a major PLA exercise aimed at coercing Taiwan and renewed Chinese threats to use force against the island.

Kristen Gunness, senior policy researcher at the RAND corporation and speaker on a CSIS panel Monday morning, described the attraction of a quarantine/blockade approach as a lower cost or lower risk means of coercing Taiwan that simultaneously puts pressure on Taiwan, the U.S. and our allies to figure out how to respond  it puts the burden of escalation on us.

Gunness said U.S. decisionmakers need to calculate how to respond to scenarios in the Indo-Pacific short of an outright invasion.

According to the CSIS survey, 68 percent of U.S. experts said a Taiwan Strait crisis was likely or very likely in 2024, compared to 58 percent of Taiwanese experts. About three-quarters of U.S. experts and two-thirds of Taiwanese experts said ongoing efforts to stabilize U.S.-China ties would not stave such a crisis.

A majority of both U.S. and Taiwanese experts said a quarantine of outlying Taiwanese islands was the likeliest action if Beijing seeks to punish or coerce Taiwan.

A combination of factors has experts anticipating some sort of escalation in 2024.

Taiwan once against went against Chinas wishes with the election last week of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, who is skeptical of Chinas ambitions toward the island. Most experts expected Beijing to change its approach in reaction to the election.

China has called Lai dangerously separatist and characterized the election he won as a choice between peace and war. Following his election, communications between Lai and Beijing officials are nonexistent.

Chen Ming-Chi, CEO at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, said there is a temptation for China to test Lai, who does not have a background in military affairs. He noted declarations of Taiwanese statehood from Lais party undermine Beijings promise of inevitable reunification.

A majority of the surveyed experts agreed that U.S. intervention is less likely as the severity of Chinese action decreases. Gunness speculated that Beijing could perceive that a quarantine offers opportunities for the U.S. to deescalate, or for Taiwan to capitulate without either side resorting to military force.

According to the report, experts were not as confident of U.S. intervention in the event of a quarantine  especially Taiwanese experts. There was more confidence that the U.S. would intervene militarily in the case of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

Lee Hsi-min, a previous admiral in the Republic of China armed forces and senior fellow at the 2049 Project, said that from Chinas point of view, quarantine can be used to prevent Taiwan from doing things China cannot accept.

However, quarantine cannot be used to compel Taiwan to do things it wants, he said. Hsi-min said a blockade is more likely than a quarantine, adding that China would be willing to use extensive bombardment to apply pressure.

Freeman Chair in China Studies at CSIS Ivan Kanapathy said the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars could also affect the U.S. approach to Taiwan by disincentivizing more conflict. Kanapathy called experts anticipation of a coming crisis surprising, given Washington and Beijings desire not to do things to provoke each other on the global stage.

The CSIS report places Taiwans ability to resist a quarantine/blockade at between one and three months with no or very limited U.S. intervention.

There are tradeoffs, Kanapathy said of the U.S.s potential intervention. You have to be able to back it up with your defense budget.

U.S. lawmakers are already chafing at the cost of Americas support for Ukraine and Israel, with President Bidens supplemental foreign spending request hung up on demands from Republicans who want to prioritize immigration across the countrys southern border.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
China, Brazil applauds bilateral strategic partnership: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 09:14, January 22, 2024

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva meets with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, in Fortaleza, Brazil, Jan. 19, 2024. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua)

BRASILIA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Fortaleza, Brazil, with both sides speaking highly of the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, conveyed President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and expressed his appreciation for Brazil's adherence to the one-China principle and for supporting China's legitimate stance.

Wang said that China has firmly supported Brazil in accelerating its economic and social development, and firmly supported Brazil in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs.

China is willing to take the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries as an opportunity to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen strategic communication, and open up new prospects for China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership, he noted.

Both sides should set the long-term goal of jointly building a China-Brazil community with a shared future, which will send a positive signal that China and Brazil are long-term and reliable strategic partners, he added.

Both sides should further strengthen unity, mutual trust and strategic coordination, and demonstrate the responsibility of major developing countries in regional and international affairs, added Wang.

The two countries should actively explore and deepen the all-round cooperation between China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and between China and the Southern Common Market (Mercosur), help Latin American and the Caribbean countries to unite and strengthen themselves, so as to move toward modernization together, and promote a just and reasonable international order, said Wang.

For his part, Lula asked Wang to convey his sincere greetings to President Xi, saying that he attaches great importance to mutual trust and friendship with President Xi, and looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges between the two countries and lifting the Brazil-China comprehensive strategic partnership to a new height.

The Brazilian president said that Brazil has openly supported and adhered to the one-China principle and will maintain this position.

Brazil is optimistic about China's development prospects and looks forward to learning from China's experience in governance and enriching cooperation with China, Lula said, adding that Chinese enterprises are welcome to invest more in Brazil.

Noting that Brazil and China highly agree on many major issues, the Brazilian president said he looks forward to working with China to improve global governance and enhance the overall strength and the voice of developing countries in international affairs.

During the visit, Wang also met with Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and Chief Advisor of the Presidency of Brazil Celso Amorim, and co-chaired the fourth China-Brazil Foreign Ministerial Level Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva meets with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, in Fortaleza, Brazil, Jan. 19, 2024. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A vote on a Chicago City Council resolution calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza set for Wednesday will be postponed after a group of 28 aldermen petitioned for a delay, according to the measures sponsors.

The aldermen calling for the delay, led by Ald. Debra Silverstein, 50th, pointed last week to a council vote set for this week on a resolution commemorating 79 years since the liberation of the Auschwitz Nazi concentration camp. They cited sensitivity concerns as they asked for the cease-fire vote to be put off for a month.

Ald. Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez, a lead sponsor of the cease-fire resolution, plans to use a procedural move Wednesday to table it. The Northwest Side alderman expects the vote will be rescheduled for a new City Council meeting in the next few weeks, she told the Tribune Monday.

We absolutely want to be sensitive to our Holocaust survivors, Rodriguez-Sanchez said. But I dont think talking about the pain that Palestinians are suffering right now and the huge loss of life  I dont think that is insensitive.

The delay marks further struggle over where Chicago should place its symbolic support as the war in Gaza continues.

The war began with Hamas attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7, when the group killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took about 250 hostages back to Gaza. Since the war started, over 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, while nearly 63,000 have been wounded, according to the Gaza-based Ministry of Health.

Days after the initial Hamas attack, the City Council passed a resolution sponsored by Silverstein, the councils lone Jewish member, supporting Israel during an emotional and often unruly special meeting. Silverstein and others condemned democratic socialist colleagues, including Rodriguez-Sanchez, who wanted the resolution to highlight Israels role in the ongoing conflict as pro-Palestinian protesters chanted.

The councils Human Relations Committee, which Rodriguez-Sanchez chairs, last month passed the cease-fire resolution originally penned by Ald. Daniel La Spata, 1st.

At the time, the Jewish Community Relations Council and Anti-Defamation League Midwest described the resolution as misguided  reckless, irresponsible and dangerous, for failing to describe Hamas as a genocidal terrorist organization. The resolution has since been updated to more directly call for the release of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas as it demands a cease-fire and humanitarian aid.

While Rodriguez-Sanchez doesnt believe holding a vote on a cease-fire resolution close to International Holocaust Remembrance Day would be insensitive, she hopes accommodating the delay requests will garner more support.

Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration is working with her to schedule a vote on the resolution at a new City Council meeting that would occur before the councils next currently scheduled meeting, Rodriguez-Sanchez said. Several aldermen who signed the petition calling for a delay have told her they will support the cease-fire resolution, she added.

It is urgent that the council passes the resolution to support the citys Palestinian population, among the largest in the country, as civilian deaths rise in Gaza, Rodriguez-Sanchez said.

The idea that we can ignore the people that live around us, the people that are a part of the fabric of our community and their pain, is just unthinkable to me, she said. We should always show solidarity with people who are suffering.

Despite the postponement, Silverstein wouldnt vote for the resolution as currently written, she said Monday. Clearer references to the atrocities committed by Hamas on Oct. 7 need to be added and references to Palestinian hostages held by Israel need to be struck, among other changes, she said.

There are really only Israeli hostages, she said. I appreciate the delay and hope this will give us the time to come up with a more balanced resolution.

When pressed, the North Side alderman said shed find it difficult to vote for a cease-fire resolution, despite wanting peace.

There was a cease-fire on Oct. 6 that Hamas broke. Hamas has said repeatedly that they would do this again she said. We need to make sure that all the Israeli hostages are released and that Hamas cant do this again.

A Johnson spokesperson did not immediately respond Monday when asked about the planned postponement.

The Associated Press contributed.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com
The Culture Secretary has accused the BBC of political bias, saying that impartiality is about perception.

In an interview with Sky News, Lucy Frazer cited a BBC news report from October in which a journalist speculated that an explosion at a hospital in Gaza City was caused by an Israeli strike.

The Government announced tougher scrutiny of the broadcaster as part of its mid-term review of the BBC Charter, and said that viewers perceive that the corporation is not sufficiently impartial.

Asked in the interview if she shared that view, Ms Frazer replied: I think that on occasions it has been biased.

We have seen recently its had to apologise for its own reporting in relation to the attack on the hospital in Gaza.

However, asked for evidence of bias and whether the BBCs story was biased or a mistake, Ms Frazer struggled to articulate her answer. The evidence of bias is what audiences believe is the content of the BBC, she said.

Told that perception and evidence were different things, Ms Frazer said: That is evidence. Impartiality is about perception of the things that are being broadcast by the BBC.

During her media round this morning, Ms Frazer told Times Radio that as part of the full Charter Review in 2027 she would look at decriminalisation of non-payment of the licence fee.

A very, very complex issue

I dont think its appropriate for the BBC to have criminal tools in its armoury. They should be thinking in all cases, What is the appropriate mechanism? I think there are issues in relation to criminal prosecutions, especially for those people who are the most vulnerable.

However, speaking to BBC Radio 4s Today programme, she declined to answer a question about whether a universal licence fee, regardless of income, was fair.

Asked if it was right in principle that someone on a six-figure salary and someone earning the minimum wage should pay the same amount, Ms Frazer said that was a very, very complex issue.

She said: Last year, 400,000 fewer people paid the licence fee and what I want to do is ensure that its value for money and that its fair for those who are paying for it But also that the BBC continues to thrive and gets the revenue it needs to continue to thrive.

Pushed for an answer, she replied: Its not that I dont have a view. I have lots of views on all these things but I think it would be inappropriate to express a view on one small, tiny element.

Not accurately reflecting diversity of thought

The BBC board must tackle the corporations groupthink and ensure that its coverage represents all political views, the review said.

While the broadcaster has made strides on ethnic diversity, it has more to do on diversity of thought and opinion.

Samir Shah, the incoming BBC chairman, must lead the board in ensuring that a wide range of different views about the world are reflected.

As a result of our evidence gathering, we heard concerns that the BBC is not accurately reflecting diversity of thought and opinion across the organisation, and that some audience groups may feel under-served by the BBC as a result, the review said.

We expect the BBC Board to continue overseeing the organisations plans to increase diversity, and to consider how diversity of thought and opinion could be better reflected in decision-making.

Praise for GB News

The government review noted that audience perceptions of the BBC on issues like impartiality have declined over time, and there is a risk that any lack of diversity of thought within the organisation could fuel negative perceptions and/or limit the BBCs own ability to best serve and represent audiences.

A recent external review of the BBCs fiscal coverage found evidence of lack of impartiality caused by uninformed groupthink.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4s Today programme, Ms Frazer praised GB News.

Im in favour of media plurality and what that means is that theres a wide variety of views out there for people to watch and listen to, so that audiences can find the views that they want to hear.

GB News is an important part of that landscape, she said.

Asked by Amol Rajan how the channel can be impartial when many of its shows are presented by former or current Tory politicians, Ms Frazer said: A broadcaster has to be impartial over the spectrum of what it broadcasts There is a balance across the spectrum in relation to GB News.

She said that the BBC had reported on the mid-term review from different angles over the course of one morning.

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The Czech Republic will not extradite Ukrainian conscription-eligible citizens currently residing in the country, Czech news channel CT24 reported on Jan. 22.

"There are no such mechanisms, and they would certainly not comply with international law and obligations that the Czech Republic has in the international arena," said the Czech Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky.

There are currently approximately 200,000 Ukrainian men in the Czech Republic with various types of visas, said CT24.

To extend their validity, these men need a valid Ukrainian passport, which involves applying at a migration service branch in Prague. Importantly, the process could also require a valid military ID, potentially putting at risk individuals abroad who may be avoiding conscription.

Read also: Defense Minister Umerov announces plans to draft Ukrainians living abroad

German newspapers Welt and Bild on Dec. 21 published an interview with Ukraines Defense Minister, Rustem Umerov, expressing Ukraines desire to begin drafting men aged 25 to 60 living abroad for military service in 2024.

However, the department later stated that such discussions are not currently on the agenda.

Germany has indicated that it will not compel Ukrainians to return home to be conscripted.

Estonia also has no plans to extradite conscription-eligible men to Ukraine rime Minister KajaKallas said on Jan. 13.

Read also: Estonia wont send Ukrainian conscription-age citizens home  PM Kallas

Ukrainian MPs are drafting a bill to regulate the conscription of Ukrainian citizens residing abroad. The bill is expected to be ready in January 2024, said sitting member of the Parliamentary Defense Committee Vadym Ivchenko on Dec. 22.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A major warmup will lead to a January thaw over much of the Midwest and Northeast this week. However, as moisture surges into the regions, enough cold air will linger at the onset of the pattern flip to lead to slippery travel from ice and/or snow in nearly a dozen states into Wednesday, AccuWeather meteorologists warn. The thaw itself may also result in travel issues as well.

A glaze of ice encased exposed surfaces and shut down travel from Oklahoma to Illinois on Monday morning. However, even though milder air moving in over much of the Mississippi Valley has helped to thaw the ice, the leading edge of the rain will freeze on trees, roads and sidewalks from southern Wisconsin and Michigan to New York state and New England into midweek.

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Where the ice accretes to a thickness of about 0.25 of an inch or greater, it may weigh trees down enough to cause them to break and trigger power outages. However, this amount of ice in the Northern states will likely be highly localized.

Any ice accretion is dangerous for motorists and pedestrians. The ice may be so thin as to appear wet, and various textures of the ice may provide traction in one spot but be extremely slippery in another.

The icy zone is expected to shift into northeastern New York and more of central and northern New England for a time on Wednesday.

The freezing rain setup is caused by a shallow layer of cold air nearest to the ground as much warmer air flows in at the middle and upper layers of the atmosphere.

Where the cold layer is thicker across more of the northern tier, snow and sleet will occur instead of freezing rain.

That cold layer will be thick enough to support accumulating snow to fall for a time, mainly from eastern Iowa and southern Wisconsin to upstate New York, the northern tier of Pennsylvania and New England, where 1-6 inches of snow will fall.

The snow may start dry and powdery but become wet and slushy as temperatures rise with the potential for some sleet to mix in with the snow.

Many airline delays and flight cancellations will occur due to snow, ice or fog. Some of the major Midwest hubs to be most affected will be Chicago, Detroit and Cleveland.

Even though wintry conditions will avoid most major hubs in the Northeast, secondary regional airports, a beginning and final destination for many airline passengers, will be adversely affected as crews and aircraft are displaced on Wednesday.

There is the potential for fog to form in areas where the air temperature rises above freezing quickly and the ground is just wet, such as in Boston, Pittsburgh, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. This can lead to additional ground stops, flight delays and cancellations this week, even when temperatures rise well above the historical average for late January.

Highs in the 40s, 50s and 60s may be widespread during the second half of this week as the January thaw kicks into high gear.

The thaw will be accompanied by areas of clouds and rain, even if fog is absent. Through Friday, most of the rainy episodes will occur from the northwestern Gulf Coast to the lower Mississippi River Valley, the Ohio Valley and eastward to much of the Atlantic coast. Motorists may encounter ponding during their travels as a series of storms rolls up from the Gulf of Mexico.

There is the potential for locally dense fog to develop due to the cold ground or remaining snow cover leading to extra condensation.

The brevity of the Arctic cold allowed only a relatively thin layer of ice to form on northern ponds, lakes and streams, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Joe Lundberg said.

The combination of rising temperatures and rain thrown in with already high stream levels may lead to some flooding along unprotected waterways.

"Because of the thin ice, only localized problems from ice jams are likely as the thaw builds," Lundberg stated.

Ice coverage on the Great Lakes, sitting at 14% as of Monday, Jan. 22, is well behind the historical average for late January, according to the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory. Typical ice coverage in late January is about 25% and peaks in late February to early March.

"The breakup of the thin ice will also pose dangers to fishing interests and other frozen lake enthusiasts in the region," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said, adding, "Little ice last winter and so far this winter has caused the ice fishing and other industries in the Midwest and Northeast to take a hit."

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.
Rebecca Helm despises the phrase Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

This moniker is used to describe the vast stretch of ocean from the west coast of North America to Japan that is crammed with an estimated 1.8 trillion pieces of trash, most of which are plastic.

I think its a really awful practice to name a part of the world after something bad thats happened to it, says Helm, a marine biologist at Georgetown Universitys Earth Commons Institute.

Moreover, she thinks that this term misleadingly implies that this area is a barren wasteland, when in fact there is a trove of marine life living alongside the floating plastic bottles, dirty fishing nets, and discarded Styrofoam cups. Along with the occasional shark or sea turtle passerby, this regionwhich is actually called the North Pacific Highhosts a unique array of tiny species that live at the sea surface, from electric-blue seadragons to miniscule snails that ride bubbles like rafts across the open ocean.

However, the life teeming in this area poses a complex conundrum for groups trying to clean it up.

Currently, there are a variety of companies and organizations operating devices to extract pollution from the open ocean, including the Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit that uses a 1.4-mile net-like screen connected to two ships to slowly skim the waters surface and collect plastic in the North Pacific High.

While removing ocean plastic is important, Helm says, she worries about how this technology is affecting the assemblage of marine life living at the oceans surface, which is known collectively as the neuston. She outlined her concerns about the Ocean Cleanup in a 2019 op-ed published by the Atlantic, writing that we cannot monitor this ecosystem with our current technology, and millions of animals may die and dissolve before the scale of destruction is fully understood.

The Ocean Cleanup published a response to her piece on their website, rebutting several of her claims. However, several years later, Helm still believes that we dont understand enough about the environmental impacts of the Ocean Cleanup and other ocean plastic removal technologies on the marketand she isnt the only one.

This past November, Helm and a group of international marine experts published a commentary outlining the fallacy of these ocean cleanup devices. It came out one week ahead of the latest round of the United Nations plastics negotiations in Nairobi, where more than 175 countries gathered to discuss a global treaty to deal with the plastic problem.

The commentary further highlighted potential risks to biodiversity, mainly from bycatchthe accidental capture of marine life. But the authors also questioned removal technologies effectiveness at cleaning up plastic at a meaningful scale. For example, one study suggests that it would take 200 devices from the Ocean Cleanup, running for 130 years, to capture just 5 percent of the worlds floating plastics, which would release a significant amount of carbon emissions.

If the bathtub is overflowing, you turn off the tap first before you start mopping the floor, says Melanie Bergmann, a biologist at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany and lead author on the commentary. If you put more and more plastics into the system, its a Sisyphean task; you will never be able to clean it all up.

But the Ocean Cleanup has a different philosophy: Its not an either-or, says Matthias Egger, the head of environmental and social affairs at the Ocean Cleanup. We see ourselves as a temporary project. You cannot clean up indefinitely if you do not also address the source of the problem, but we need to do both.

The organization was founded in 2013 by 16-year-old Boyan Slat, a Dutch inventor and entrepreneur, with the aim of cleaning up 90 percent of floating ocean plastic pollution by 2040. Currently, the Ocean Cleanup is only operating one plastic retrieval system, which goes on periodic six-week trips to the North Pacific. But their goal is to eventually scale up to 10 devices, powered by 20 ships. Egger says they use computational models to help predict where the highest concentrations of plastic are in this area, like a weather forecast button for plastic.

Though its likely the most well-known device, the Ocean Cleanup isnt the only plastic removal game in town. A bevy of devices have flooded the market in recent yearsfrom floating garbage bins that filter out debris, developed by Australian company Seabin, to a water drone created by Dutch company RanMarine that skims the sea surface autonomously and chomps up plastic bits. In many ways, eliminating plastic from the ocean can improve habitat quality and benefit ocean species by reducing the risk of plastic entanglement or ingestion, which kills 100,000 marine animals each year, according to a report from Earth.Org.

But these devices could also hurt the very ecosystems that they are trying to protect. In 2023, the Ocean Cleanups operations captured more than 335,000 pounds (152,397 kilograms) of plastic. However, from July 2021 until December 2023, the system also caught 2,866 pounds (1,300 kilograms) of incidental bycatch, including fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and barnacles, according to a report from the organization. A 2022 study performed by the University of Plymouth on a Seabin at a tidal marina in the United Kingdom found that for every four pieces of plastic the device snatched, one organism was also caught; 73 percent of the organisms that were caught were dead after two days.

While this pales in comparison to the level of bycatch from nets used by the fishing industry, the commentarys authors state that the amount of marine life unintentionally caught by plastic removal technology is still harming ecosystems, and that the long-term impacts of these devices are still not yet entirely understood.

Before we start to roll out things that purport to be solutions, its absolutely essential that weve got clear, independent scientific evidence to guide us so that we know that those solutions are actively effective and that theyre not simply making the problem worse, says Richard Thompson, a marine researcher at the University of Plymouth and co-author on the Seabin study, as well as the recent commentary.

In response to biodiversity risks, including the ones outlined in Thompsons report, the Seabin team recently pivoted its business model from selling the devices to users around the world to focusing operations on heavily populated cities, using Sydneys harbor in Australia as a pilot.

Here, the company runs daily servicing and collection of trash in their own units.

It turned into a huge liability because we didnt know where the Seabins were being sold, says Pete Ceglinski, the CEO and co-founder of Seabin. They started buying back Seabins in 2020, though there are still many units out there that they were unable to retrieve, Ceglinski says. Now, the companys revenue comes from corporate and government clients, which pay to help operate the machines and are able to tell their customers that they support plastic removal efforts, he adds.

Seabin has not conducted or commissioned an environmental impact assessment for its devices, a common and problematic trend for plastic-removal technology companies, according to Bergmann. The Ocean Cleanup, on the other hand, does commission its own environmental impact assessments each time it develops a new model, conducted by marine consulting firm CSA Ocean Sciences. As the nonprofit has developed new iterations of its system, it has added measures to try to minimize bycatch, such as underwater cameras and green LED lights to increase visibility of the equipment.

Egger co-authored a study in 2021 which found that there is a higher plastic-to-organism ratio of neuston inside the Great Pacific Garbage Patch area than outside of it. Despite these findings, the nonprofits website states that their technology will still have negligible to low impact on the neuston, a conclusion that the group says is supported by samples they collected around the system in their most recent environmental impact assessment.

However, some scientists are skeptical that plastic-removal device companies can claim a minimal impact on neuston given how much we still dont know about these organisms. And while a single device from the Ocean Cleanup likely wont have an outsize impact on high-seas biodiversity as a whole, it could if they scale up their fleet to the size that theyve stated, Helm says.

In November 2023, a number of plastic scientists, including Bergmann and Helm, as well as representatives from the Ocean Cleanup and other plastic technology companies, attended the U.N. negotiations in Nairobi. The Ocean Cleanup is pushing to formally include language about the importance of plastic cleanups in accumulation zones like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch into the treaty, says Joost Dubois, the head of communications at the Ocean Cleanup.

At the other end of the argument, the commentary authors write that this type of technology should not be enshrined in a treaty, adding that there is no evidence that the net benefits of [plastic removal technologies] outweigh their environmental and economic impacts outside highly polluted areas.

The authors arent against plastic cleanups as a whole, extolling the importance of human-run efforts in which groups like fishers, community members, and divers pluck plastic out of the ocean to avoid harming other marine life. But do scientists think it is possible to make a better plastic removal device than what currently exists on the market? While removing waste from the ocean at a large scale is a laudable cause, doing it the right way is going to be tricky, says Zoie Diana, a biologist at the University of Toronto who studies the impact of plastics on wildlife.

The plastic cleanup technologies are not a panacea, says Diana, who was not an author on the commentary. They deserve a careful look [and] a tailored approach to the different environment that youre looking at.

One of the gold standards, she says, lies in the Baltimore Harbor in the form of a 50-foot garbage interceptor fondly known by locals as Mr. Trash Wheel. Topped with comically large googly eyes, this semi-autonomous device gobbles up trash from the Jones Falls River before it empties into the Inner Harbor. Along with being an educational tool (and an unofficial city mascot), the device is locally monitored and consistently cleared out to avoid bycatch. There is now a whole family of trash wheels around Baltimore, including Professor Trash Wheel, which, according to its official city bio, likes women in science and dislikes the patriarchy.

Unfortunately, its going to take more than a few wheels to clean up the millions of tons of plastic in the worlds oceans. The next U.N. plastic negotiations will take place in Ottawa, Canada, in April, and member nations have pledged to develop a treaty by the end of 2024. Even though countries are still figuring out how to slow plastic production and where they stand on plastic removal devices, the scientists and companies can agree on one thing: You should still pick up and recycle those plastic bags, bottles, and bits you spot lying on the beach or in the sea.
Anh Truong displays the result of nearly a day's culinary labor in this picture from the Springfield Leader & Press.

The Truongs and other Vietnamese refugees gathered in June of 1982 to prepare this food and more at the Sacred Heart Parish to honor their English teacher, Leslie Johnson. In 1975, the Council of Churches of the Ozarks established a Refugee Resettlement Program that assisted many Vietnamese families as they settled in the Springfield area following the Vietnam War.

This image is part of a much larger collection of historically rich photographs from the News-Leaders photo archive. Each week, the Springfield-Greene County Library will tap into this vast collection and present an interesting image from the darkroom" and share its history. This image is presented in partnership between the Springfield-Greene County Library District and the Springfield News-Leader. For more historical images of the Ozarks, visit: thelibrary.org/fromthedarkroom.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: From the Darkroom: Vietnamese refugees aided by Council of Churches
EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND (WHTM)  It was an achievement that many scientists believed was impossible. On Feb. 22, 1997, a scientific team headed by Professor Ian Wilmut at the Roslin Institute, part of the University of Edinburgh, introduced Dolly the Cloned Sheep to the world.

The misconceptions, misconstruals, misinterpretations, misapprehensions, and misoneisms started almost immediately.

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A lot of people thought Dolly was the first animal to be cloned, ever. In fact, the first successful clonings, of frogs and fish, were done in the 1950s and 1960s. And as the Rosling Institute explains on its website, Dolly was not even the first cloned mammal.

Would you spend $50,000 to clone your dog?

That honour belongs to another sheep which was cloned from an embryo cell and born in 1984 in Cambridge, UK. Two other sheep, Megan, and Morag, had also been cloned from embryonic cells grown in the lab at The Roslin Institute in 1995 and six other sheep, cloned from embryonic and fetal cells, were born at Roslin at the same time as Dolly. 

Seven-month-old Dolly, the genetically cloned sheep, is surrounded by the media at the Roslin Institute Tuesday February 25 1997. I(AP Photo/Newsflash) **UNITED KINGDOM OUT**

FILE This Tuesday, Feb. 25, 1997 file photo shows seven-month-old Dolly, the genetically cloned sheep, looking towards the camera at the Roslin Institute in Edinburgh. (AP Photo/Paul Clements, File) UK OUT

Dolly the Sheep, the worlds first cloned mammal, circa 2000. Veterinarians gave Dolly a lethal injection February 14, 2003 at Scotlands Roslin Institute after they discovered signs of progressive lung disease. (Photo by Getty Images)

So what was it about Dollys birth that caused such excitement? She was the first mammal cloned from an adult cell. The process, called Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer, starts by removing the genetic material from an egg cell, then replacing it with the genetic material from a different animal.

Dolly was cloned using genetic material from a mammary gland cell of a six-year-old Finn Dorset sheep, implanted into an egg cell from a Scottish Blackface sheep. Another Scottish Blackface served as her surrogate mother. When she was born on July 5, 1996, Dollys had the white face of a Finn Dorset, rather than the black face of her surrogate mother, proof she was indeed a clone. Because Dollys DNA came from a mammary gland cell, the research team named her after Dolly Parton. Science humor

Do cloned pets actually look and act like the original?

The big breakthrough within the big breakthrough was that they did this with a specialized cell. An embryo starts out as a single cell. As the cell divides, and the embryo starts to grow, the cells start to differentiate, becoming, heart cells. liver cells, lung cells, brain cells, mammary gland cells-cells that specialize to perform a specific purpose. Dolly proved it was possible to reset the clock and make an adult cell act like a newly fertilized embryo.

The implication was that it would be possible to take a cell culture from, say, a prize cow, chicken, or sheep, and produce dozens, hundreds, thousands, or even millions of precise duplicates.

The other implication was that you could use human cells to create a clone army.

The pro and con arguments about cloning continue to this day, even though the type of cloning used to create Dolly has pretty well fallen by the wayside. As it turned out, Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer had a low success rate. Dolly was the only animal born out of 277 cloned embryos, and years of research failed to improve the percentage of viable clones. And in the meantime, a better method was developed- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, or iPSC.

Nobel prize in medicine awarded for research on evolution

The technology of iPSC was developed by Japanese scientists Shinya Yamanaka and Kazutoshi Takahashi. In the early 2000s, they discovered by taking an adult cell and adding a few special genes, the cell would revert to an unspecialized form-a stem cell. The discovery has revolutionized genetic research while avoiding some of the ethical quandaries of SCNT cloning.

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As for Dolly herself, she continued living a normal sheepish life at the Roslin Institute. She had six lambs with a Welsh Mountain ram called David; Bonnie 1998, twins Sally and Rosie in 1999, and triplets Lucy, Darcy and Cotton in 2000.

Soon after giving birth to the triplets, The institute suffered an outbreak of a virus called Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV), which causes lung cancer in sheep. Dolly was one of those infected. In February 2003, Dolly developed a cough, and a CT scan showed tumors in her lungs. Rather than allow her to suffer, the Institute put Dolly to sleep on Feb. 14, 2003, at the age of six.

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Six years old is about half the usual lifespan of a sheep. When Dolly was a year old, the team at the Institute ran an analysis of her DNA and discovered her telomeres, the caps found at the end of chromosomes, were shorter than they should be for sheep of that age. Telomeres protect the DNA in chromosomes from damage, and get shorter as an organism ages. When Dolly died, it was widely presumed her short telomeres were (a) a result of cloning, and (b) at least partly responsible for her early demise-in effect, she was older than her years.

Fifth person cured of HIV after stem cell transplant, researchers say

However, as the Roslin Institute website reports, extensive health screens on Dolly at the time did not find any conditions which could be directly related to premature or accelerated aging. And studies of cloned animals have found shorter, longer, and normal telomeres. So its hard to prove Dollys early death was directly related to cloning.

Since 2003, Dolly has been on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. Twenty years later, shes still one of their most popular exhibits.

For a list of animals that have been cloned, click here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
HERSHEY, Pa. (WHTM)  A new acai berry bowl franchise location will be opening its doors in Hershey later this year.

A new Playa Bowls franchise storefront will soon be opening its doors at the Park Village Plaza on 659 East Main Street, off Hershey Park Drive near U.S. 322 and U.S. 422. Construction on the new 2,300 square foot space first broke ground back on Monday, January 15.

RELATED: New Dauphin County Playa Bowls announces grand opening

According to the company, the new Hershey location is going to offer a wide variety of smoothie bowls, oatmeal bowls, smoothies, fresh juices, and coffee.

Specifically, the new Playa Bowls Hershey will offer 37 signature bowl combinations for guests to choose from.

At Playa Bowls Hershey, its not just about food  its about embracing positivity, good times, and bringing people together, Chad Stine, co-owner of the Playa Bowls Hershey franchise said. We are thrilled to build a bright and inviting space for Hershey residents and visitors to gather, while providing healthier options to the Hershey area.

The new Playa Bowls is expected to open its doors in the Spring of 2024. Once open, the franchisees expect to create between 35  50 new jobs.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
A project to replace the 60-year-old Blatnik Bridge on Interstate 535 that connects Superior to Duluth will receive over $1 billion in funding long sought by Minnesota and Wisconsin officials, including U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.

The announcement comes three days before President Joe Biden is set to visit Superior, one of three administration visits to Wisconsin this week. He's expected to highlight his economic agenda, including efforts to rebuild infrastructure.

Funding for the bridge, which spans across St. Louis Bay, will come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In June, the two state transportation departments estimated the project would cost around $1.8 billion.

The bridge has "suffered from significant structural deterioration, leading to capacity, mobility, and safety concerns," according to the release.

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A 40-ton weight restriction was put into effect on the bridge, and lane closures were regularly required due to safety inspections and maintenance.

"I have been pushing the Biden administration at every turn to fund this project because a new Blatnik Bridge is critical for our economy, safety, and way of life," Baldwin said in a press release. "With this investment, we can ensure that billions of dollars worth of products can get to market efficiently, families can get to work on time, and millions of travelers get to their destinations safely.

Biden stopped to look at the bridge during a visit to Superior in 2022, in his first stop after giving his State of the Union address. Then-Wisconsin Transportation Secretary Craig Thompson at the time said he hoped Biden's visit would help secure funding for replacement.

According to the Legislative Fiscal Bureau, the bridge carries 33,000 vehicles per day, including higher volumes of traffic during summer months and carries billions of dollars in freight each year. The Port of Duluth-Superior is the largest port on the Great Lakes.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Blatnik Bridge project from Superior to Duluth to get over $1 billion
Good morning, Chicago.

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.

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.

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.

Read more on this story from Angie Leventis Lourgos.

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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.

While T.J. Gordon has used a walking stick consistently for the past two years due to chronic leg pain, he typically relies on his legs and public transportation to get him where he needs to go in the summer.

But winter is harder, the 36-year-old research associate said.

For his role in a home invasion, Edgar 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.

Chicago-area native Nikko DAmbrosio made a national media splash earlier this month when he filed a lawsuit against dozens of women who allegedly bad-mouthed him on a tell-all Facebook dating page, describing him as clingy, a ghoster and a show-off with money.

Turns out DAmbrosios dating reviews were the least of his worries.

The alderman whose ward includes the South Loop plot where the White Sox are reportedly exploring the possibility of building a new stadium threw her weight behind the emerging idea after meeting with the proposed projects developers.

Nick Foligno fully participated in the Chicago Blackhawks last practice Sunday before they jetted off to Vancouver for a four-game road trip.

Talking to reporters after practice, Foligno was no longer wearing a cast on his left ring finger, which he fractured during a fight with New Jersey Devil Brendan Smith after Smith hit Connor Bedard and broke his jaw.

Speaking of Bedard, he took part in some light skating drills with Samuel Savoie (broken right femur) as both young skaters rehab from their injuries.

When you see the zakusky carts at Anelya, the new Ukrainian-inspired restaurant in Avondale, they might raise an eyebrow. Even with the pedigree of James Beard award-winning chefs and spouses Johnny Clark and Beverly Kim, who also own Parachute just down Elston Avenue, Tribune critic Louisa Kung Liu Chu had to wonder.

Fans of the Chicago Rat Hole quickly banded together Friday to dig out the infamous rodent-shaped crater in Roscoe Village after someone had filled it in.

Onlookers discovered that the citys newest tourist attraction  a hole in the sidewalk, with a skinny tail and only three paws  had been filled with a concrete slurry after a week in the spotlight once it went viral on a social media post.
A man being held in connection with the shooting deaths Sunday of a Tinley Park woman and her three adult children had not been charged as of Monday afternoon.

Police would not state his connection to the victims, but described the shootings as the result of a domestic incident, and assembled a team for a news conference that included domestic violence experts to help address the issue and prevent violence.

Its difficult to process a senseless tragedy like this, Tinley Park Mayor Mike Glotz said. This is a difficult day and a stark reminder about how quickly domestic violence can escalate.

Tinley Park police Chief Thomas Tilton said the investigation continues and is a very complex process.

It takes a long, long time to complete, Tilton said, saying police expect charges to be approved soon.

The shooting happened in the 7400 block of West 173rd Place at about 11:20 a.m. Sunday. Police were notified when a man at the residence called 911, according to police.

A memorial of flowers outside a home Monday in the 7400 block of West 173rd Place in Tinley Park. The fatal shooting happened at about 11:20 a.m. Sunday, police said.

The Cook County medical examiners office identified the women as Majeda Kassem, 53, Halema Kassem, 25, Zahia Kassem, 25, and Hanan Kassem, 24. They were pronounced dead at 11:36 a.m., and the medical examiner later listed the cause of death as multiple gunshot wounds.

Itedal Shalabi, co-founder and executive director of Arab American Family Services in Worth, said those slain were Muslim and the family is of Palestinian descent.

She spoke at the news conference alongside Pam Kostecki, executive director of the Crisis Center for South Suburbia in Tinley Park.

Were here responding to this incident together, Shalabi said. This is a tragedy. This is a tragedy for any community.

Police said a firearm was recovered and the man surrendered to police without incident, but Tilton would not say what type of gun or offer many details of the crime scene or investigation.

Outside the home where the shootings occurred, Tuiana Brown said Monday she was a classmate of Halema Kassem and both were in their third year of pharmacy school at Chicago State University.

Halema was the sweetest person, a lovely young girl, Brown said. She was very kind, very helpful.

Brown said she and other classmates gathered outside the home after they learned of Halemas death.

It is definitely very devastating, she said.

Brown said Halema was in an online study group with her and some other students, and that Halemas mother would pop in from time to time.

Tuiana Brown, a classmate of Halema Kassem at Chicago State University, outside the home in Tinley Park on Jan. 22, 2024.

Her mother was very nice, Brown said.

She said that Halema also has two brothers who lived in the home.

A nearby resident, Anita McKinley, said she did not know the Kassems but that it is a horrible tragedy, just unthinkable that something like this can happen.

She said she and her husband were away at church and had gone to lunch.

When we got back there were all the police cars and we had no idea what might have happened, she recalled. I am praying for their family as I cant imagine what theyre going through.

Officials said counseling services were being made available to first responders involved in the call, and those who assist victims of domestic violence said that far too often, those who are victims of domestic abuse dont reach out to get help.

This was a very traumatic scene for everyone involved, said Village Manager Pat Carr.

Tilton said the department is fortunate to have professionals on retainer, available to offer counseling to officers, Tilton said.

We want to make sure their mental health is cared for, he said.

Itedal Shalabi, co-founder and executive director of Arab American Family Services, speaks at a news conference on Jan. 22, 2024, regarding the deaths of four women near the 7400 block of 173rd Place in Tinley Park.

Kostecki said that violence typically doesnt happen without warning, and victims of domestic violence may often be subjected to ongoing emotional and physical abuse from someone seeking to exert power and control.

If a firearm is involved there is 500% more chance somebody is going to lose their life, she said.

Kostecki and Shalabi urged those who are being abused to reach out for help.

A lot of time its shame, Kostecki said, explaining why women who are being abused dont seek assistance. Theyre afraid to say someone who I love is hurting me.

The Arab American Family Services help line is 708-945-7600 and the Crisis Centers help line is 708-429-7233.

Officials said the village has not seen killings on this scale, as far as number of victims in one location, since the Feb. 2, 2008, slayings of five women and the wounding of a sixth inside a Lane Bryant store.

It tears open a lot of wounds of what happened 16 years ago, Carr said.

mnolan@tribpub.com
Demonstrators calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war and an end to U.S. strikes on Yemen blocked streets in downtown Raleigh as they marched Sunday afternoon.

About 150 people, bundled tightly against the biting cold, attended the well-organized march. Some carried signs and flags. About 20 marshals donned florescent green vests to protect the crowd as it moved along a route lined with Raleigh police officers directing traffic.

We will continue to show up until we see a cease-fire, Noor Abualhawa, one of the organizers, shouted to the crowd as the rally began around 3 p.m.

Protesters in the Triangle have for months been demonstrating against the Israeli siege of Gaza. Another group drew national attention when they blocked the Durham Freeway in November.

The present conflict, which began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, has grown into the deadliest of the five Gaza wars. More than 25,000 are reported dead, most of them civilians.

Protesters marched through downtown Raleigh on Sunday, January 21, 2024 demanding a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war.

The U.S. is supporting a genocide, Manzoor Cheema, a march organizer and member of Muslims for Social Justice, told The News & Observer. And when a crisis like that happens anybody who has been observing the reality cannot just stay quiet. And thats why so many people are speaking out.

Sundays was at least the 22nd rally, march or protest held in Raleigh on behalf of Gaza since the conflict began, Cheema said.

Before leaving Moore Square, demonstrators chanted Shut it down! and erupted in cheers as a caravan of cars with Palestinian flags thrust through sunroofs and out windows honked past.

Led by a police escort, the marchers walked through the center of the street, traveling west on Hargett Street, south on Dawson Street, then east on Martin Street before pausing outside the Wake County Justice Center.

Many of those present were families with children.

Seventy percent of people killed in Gaza are women and children. Seventy percent, Cheema said, citing United Nations statistics shared last week. Thats why we need to organize, and we have to bring the whole family.
Growing up in the '70s in Delaware, state Rep. Eric Morrison remembers what it was like to have the LGBTQ+ community and their issues ignored on larger platforms.

Decades later, he became one of the first openly LGBTQ+ legislators elected to the Delaware General Assembly in November 2020, along with Sen. Sarah McBride and Sen. Marie Pinkney.

Now, as a Democrat in the 27th district in Glasgow and an ally and member of Delawares LGBTQ+ community for more than 30 years, his recently proposed bill is part of his effort to continue advocating for a community that hasnt always had a seat at the table.

What is House Bill 275?

Rep. Eric Morrison

House Bill 275 was introduced on Dec. 14 by Morrison, and a slew of co-sponsors to amend titles 6, 11, 18, 19 and 25 of the Delaware Code relating to sexual orientation to include asexuality and pansexuality, according to a bill summary on the Delaware General Assembly website.

Asexuality refers to a person with little to no sexual attraction to others. An asexual person may still desire emotionally intimate relationships with others, and experience other forms of attraction that can be romantic, aesthetic or sensual in nature, but does not intend to act out on that attraction in a sexual manner, according to the Asexual Visibility & Education Network.

Pansexuality refers to a person whose sexual and/or romantic attraction to someone else is not based on that persons gender identity or sex. Someone who is pansexual may be attracted to more than one gender or all genders. The word pansexual is sometimes used interchangeably with bisexual, according to the Trevor Project.

What will the changes do?

From L to R: The traditional Pride flag; the transgender flag; the pansexual flag; and the bisexual flag.

The Delaware Code currently defines sexual orientation as either heterosexuality, homosexuality or bisexuality.

If the bill passes, it will amend this language to include asexuality and pansexuality under the Delaware Codes definition of sexual orientation, encompassing more identities and making the term sexual orientation more inclusive.

The Delaware Code currently references sexual orientation several times, each failing to include a mention of pansexuality and asexuality, Morrison said.

Why is the addition of pansexual and asexual important?

Wilmington celebrates Pride Month with flag raising at Rodney Square, Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Morrison knows pansexual and asexual individuals who say they often feel excluded in conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and issues, he said.

This, along with his desire to ensure folks who identify as pansexual or asexual cannot be discriminated against in situations such as housing or employment applications due to their sexual orientation, is why the bill exists.

I dont per se know of anyone whos been discriminated [against] for this, but oftentimes in legislation, we codify things for people we dont personally know, Morrison said. We dont see this much in Delaware, thankfully, but in todays environment, when community members are under attack ... its really important that young people and any people are able to see themselves represented anywhere we can and in the Delaware Code.

In October of 2023, Delaware became the 17th state to ban the LGBTQ+ panic defense in a court of law, which refers to a defendant attempting to justify using force against a victim based on knowledge of the victims sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender or sex assigned at birth.

The ban, introduced by Morrison in May, protects LGBTQ+ Delawareans from becoming victims of violence. It passed in the House and unanimously in the Senate in June before Gov. John Carney signed it into law on Sept. 24.

A vibrant pride flag gracefully dances in the wind along Delaware Street, symbolizing inclusivity, love, and the celebration of diversity, as New Castle embraces and supports the LGBTQ+ community. (New Castle, June 20th, 2023)

In 2022, Morrison worked with Pinkney to pass legislation updating Delawares hate crimes laws.

The legislation modernized the definition of hate crimes; designated that a hate crime can be charged based on the perpetrator thinking that a victim belongs to a certain group, whether they do or not; clarified that a hate crime can wholly or partially be motivated by hate; and declared that a hate crime can be motivated by a perpetrators hatred toward a specific group or individual.

The legislation also requires law enforcement to report hate crimes to the Division of Civil Rights & Public Trust for tracking and data purposes and establishes a right to civil remedies for hate crimes.

Ultimately, it is hoped that HB 275 will validate individuals who identify with one of these sexual orientations, sending a message that these Delawareans are recognized and valued, Morrison said.

What's the status of the legislation?

See the rainbow LGBTQ pride flag (left) and the asexual pride flag (right).

As it is still early in the legislative session, the bill has not been heard in the House Administration Committee or on the House floor yet.

Morrison is hopeful for its passing given the numerous co-sponsors and the lack of opposition he has heard.

Morrison plans to continue working on pertinent legislation dealing with the LGBTQ+, citing his on-the-ground work speaking to LGBTQ+ youth and being surrounded by local communities as a huge motivator as he provides the higher-level advocacy he sought in his youth.

A lot of people dont know what asexuality or pansexuality is, and this is a great way to learn about it, he said. Its also about educating the community and educating legislators.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.

Youth speak up: LGBTQ students fight for inclusion: 'We don't need to keep experiencing these 'hardships'

ICYMI: Hate crimes on the rise in Delaware, nationwide. Here are the numbers

Details on Morrison's previous bill: Delaware becomes 17th state to ban "LGBTQ+ panic" defense in court of law

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: LGBTQ+ bill proposed in Delaware to protect asexuality, pansexuality
Almost $100,000 worth of drugs are off the streets after an investigation at a Hall County home.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

On Wednesday, deputies said they investigated a home on Baker Road in the eastern part of Hall County.

During the investigation, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents reportedly found 918 THC oil vapes, 12 pounds of marijuana, a gun, and $10,000 in cash.

Officials said they also found packaging materials, scales, and other items related to drug distribution at the home.

Deputies said the illegal drugs have an estimated street value of $98,850.

TRENDING STORIES:

The sheriffs office arrested Oswaldo Steve Soto-Medina, 28, and Kevin Ayala, 28, both of Gainesville.

They are charged with the following:

Possession of THC oil with intent to distribute

Possession of marijuana

Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute

Trafficking marijuana

Possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

Ayala was also charged with obstruction and giving false information to an officer. The duo was booked into the Hall County Jail.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
MARCELLUS, Mich. (WOOD)  A 24-year-old Marcellus man was taken to the hospital after being shot multiple times by his roommate, the sheriffs office said.

Around 7:30 p.m. Saturday, deputies with the Cass County Sheriffs Office were called to a home on E North Street near Burney Street for reports of a shooting.

Investigating detectives found that two roommates, 23 and 24 years old, had an argument that turned physical. The 23-year-old pulled out a handgun, shooting the 24-year-old multiple times. He was taken to the hospital.

The 23-year-old was arrested and booked into the Cass County Jail. He was not named by deputies.

The sheriffs office is investigating. Anyone with information is asked to call the Cass County Sheriffs Office at 269.445.2481 or Crime Stoppers at 574.288.STOP.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ended his presidential campaign on Sunday amid dour poll numbers in New Hampshire and South Carolina, marking a major shift in the primary field and the downfall of a politician once seen as former President Donald Trump's chief rival.

Meanwhile, Trump and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley are growing increasingly combative on the trail ahead of New Hampshire's primary on Tuesday, where polls show Haley has her best chance at beating Trump.

As Trump defends his attacks on Haley based on her name, Haley has been going after Trump over his age and, she argues, his decline in mental stamina.

Here's where the trail stands with less than two days before New Hampshire votes.

DeSantis leaves the race

DeSantis announced in a video shared to social media that he was leaving the race for president, marking the exit of another major candidate shortly before Tuesday's New Hampshire primary. The race essentially consists of Trump and Haley.

DeSantis in the video endorsed Trump while noting disagreements with the former president over issues like his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The governor's departure will see his support in New Hampshire divvied up by the remaining field. Trump is looking to build an early winning streak, after last week's Iowa caucuses, while Haley is looking at her best chance to best Trump, per state polling, which shows her a relatively close No. 2.

Trump won more than 50% of the vote in Iowa, and DeSantis -- who had previously projected he would win there -- got a distant second place, with 21%. That was a major setback for a rising Republican star who had cruised to reelection in 2022 in a famous swing state where he built a track record as a successful, often hard-line conservative.

DeSantis' decision to leave the race had been the subject of mounting speculation this weekend after he canceled high-profile scheduled appearances on Sunday on NBC and CNN and on WMUR, a New Hampshire TV station.

He had also been set to spend most of this weekend campaigning in South Carolina in events hosted by his allied super PAC, Never Back Down, but then planned to return to New Hampshire on Sunday for an event in Manchester.

DeSantis' campaign even insisted less than a day before that he would remain in the race.

"The media hits were canceled due to a scheduling issue and will be rescheduled. The governor will be traveling Sunday morning with the campaign and has public events scheduled Sunday evening through Tuesday in NH," campaign spokesperson Bryan Griffin posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

MORE: Sen. Tim Scott endorses Donald Trump ahead of New Hampshire primary

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to supporters during a campaign rally at the Courtyard by Marriott Nashua on Jan. 19, 2024 in Nashua, New Hampshire. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Trump and Haley go at it with different attacks

Trump has, more and more, been mispronouncing or misstating Haley's given first name -- Nimarata -- in his social media posts and in public, echoing his repeated emphasis on Barack Obama's middle name, Hussein.

Trump has also elevated the racist conspiracy theory that Haley is not eligible to be president of the United States because her Indian immigrant parents weren't yet citizens when she was born in South Carolina. He infamously floated a similar baseless claim about Obama.

Asked about him mocking Haley's name, Trump told Fox News' Bret Baier on Sunday that he had done something similar to former primary opponent Asa Hutchinson.

"It's a little bit of a take-off on her name and her name, wherever she may come from," he said.

"I have fun with it. And sometimes to tell you the truth, it's a very effective tool," he added.

Haley brushed off Trump's new slams, telling CNN on Thursday: "I know President Trump well. That's what he does when he feels threatened. That's what he does when he feels insecure."

Trump dismissed that on Sunday. "I'm not concerned with her," he told Baier.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, makes a campaign stop to greet people at MaryAnn's diner on Jan. 21, 2024, in Derry, New Hampshire. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Haley has also returned fire of her own, casting Trump, 77, as too old to return to the White House and questioning his mental acuity after he repeatedly confused her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., in recent comments about the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

"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 it," Haley said Saturday in New Hampshire. She has repeatedly indicated both Trump and President Joe Biden, who is 81, are too old for office.

She reiterated her criticism of Trump on Sunday on CBS' "Face the Nation."

"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," she said. "What I'm saying is, first of all, you're talking about somebody who's only going to be an office for 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."

Biden's campaign weighed in as well, with a sarcastic post on X that read "I don't agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi."

On Saturday night, Trump said his mind is "stronger" than it was 25 years ago and jabbed at Biden, who has made a number of verbal gaffes and slip-ups himself.

Sununu boasts of Haley's chances in NH but dodges on path forward

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, one of Haley's top surrogates, boasted of her chances in his state -- but he sounded less bullish when discussing her path forward beyond that race.

According to 538, Haley is behind Trump in New Hampshire by about 15 points, though she is banking on the state's independent voters rallying to her over him.

"I'm looking at the next 72 hours," Sununu said on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday. "We're going like gangbusters. She's crisscrossing the state. She's hitting every voter. She's going everywhere."

MORE: Trump says he's 'probably' not choosing Nikki Haley for vice president

Still, when pressed on whether Haley would remain in the primary contest if she loses next month in her home state of South Carolina -- where 538's polling average shows Trump with a roughly 30-point advantage -- Sununu demurred, saying that Haley could "build on momentum" from a strong finish in New Hampshire.

"I think after every state, you look at your campaign, obviously, but that's a month away. I mean, it's really a month away," he said.

ABC News' Gabriella Abdul-Hakim, Libby Cathey, Hannah Demissie, Fritz Farrow, Lalee Ibssa and Soo Rin Kim contributed to this report.

DeSantis exits 2024 race right after aide says he won't; Trump responds after Haley questions mental fitness originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Lawyers for three Park Ridge teens charged with felonies and accused of getting high-value stolen concert tickets from a Kenosha County, Wisconsin ticket booth last summer are negotiating terms for the teens before their next court appearance, according to a prosecutor.

The negotiations involve the teens pleas and sentencing, according to Jennifer Tanck-Adams, an assistant district attorney in Kenosha County. She said the original restitution for the teens was for $50,000, the same value as what the tickets were worth, according to a July 25 Kenosha criminal complaint. She said the victim asked for the restitution to be reduced to $20,000.

Tanck-Adams said if the teens receive a sentence of probation, they could petition to serve that in Illinois under the interstate compact with the Department of Corrections.

The three teens, Thomas Bernatek, Amelia Miulli and Morgan Timmons, were age 18 when they were each charged with a class G felony in July 2023 for receiving stolen admission wristband tickets to Country Thunder, a country music festival in Kenosha County. The three are alumni of Maine South High School, according to a Maine Township High School 207 spokesperson.

Country Thunders site manager reported a burglary to Kenosha County Sheriffs deputies on July 23, 2023 and said the the festivals will call booth was tampered with after it closed the previous night, according to a criminal complaint. It also said admission wristbands worth at least $50,000 had gone missing.

According to the criminal complaint, the site manager checked the internet and found Bernatek had posted some of the wristbands for sale.

Law enforcement officers set up a sting operation in which they arranged a meeting with Bernatek to supposedly purchase tickets. Once the officers confirmed that Bernatek had the wristbands, they detained him.

A sheriffs department investigation found Bernatek texted Miulli about the wristbands and he planned to sell them. Miulli denied any knowledge of plans to sell wristbands.

The defendants lawyers, based in the Kenosha area, did not respond to requests for comment.

The next court date is set for April 12. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt.
Its said that discretion is the better part of valor. Ron DeSantiss endorsement of Donald Trump as he withdrew from the Republican presidential race Sunday is an excellent example of that. Thanks to that move, he has a political future, either a Trump Administration or in 2028.

DeSantis was once viewed as the MAGA movements future. Young and coming off a massive re-election win in hitherto marginal Florida, he looked to some like Trumps natural successor. He sounded MAGA-friendly themes on foreign policy when he questioned open-ended military aid to Ukraine and won culture warriors over with his battles to remove wokeness from Florida schools. Surely, many reasoned, conservatives would move on from the Trump era when they could get all the goodies with less drama.

That didnt happen for a host of reasons. Trump pummeled DeSantis from before the governor entered the race. The man whose motto was never back down backed down from responding in kind. Once he was in the race, he failed to provide a clear vision for America other than to say it would look a lot like his Florida. That combination  weak positive vision and no effective contrast with the frontrunner who shared many of DeSantiss views  meant the campaign stalled and then died.

DeSantis could have chosen to go on futilely. Many candidates do stay in a race for too long, damaging their future viability as they rack up loss after loss. Finishing second in Iowa, where he had spent almost all of his time and money, wasnt good enough when polls showed him running a poor third in the next primary states. Getting out now was smart.

Smarter was the way he did it. The video in which he announced his decision struck positive, MAGA-friendly themes. DeSantis, who can sometimes look goofy on camera, looked friendly and warm, someone who you might want to have a beer with. Praising his young children and his more charismatic wife, Casey, helped to leave a lasting image of a decent conservative family man.

The kicker, though, was his decision to back Trump while swiping at Nikki Haley. Saying she represented a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that kowtow[s] to large corporations and cave[s] to woke ideology clearly was meant to freeze her out of the MAGA supermajority that dominated todays Republican Party.

That can only have been meant to damage the woman who outlasted him as he looked forward to the future. He is only 45 years old. Had he become president, he would have been the second youngest person ever to be elected. Hes got time to lick his wounds, figure out what went wrong, and come back.

Ending his race on Sunday afternoon ensured that his Trump endorsement would be big news right as New Hampshire residents decide who to support on Tuesday. It deprived Haley of free air time on local and national news, and added to the growing sense that Trumps nomination is inevitable. Trump is not known for his gratitude, but he surely knows DeSantis gave him a huge gift.

DeSantis cant run again for governor in 2026, so he has to decide where to go from here. The outcome this November will clearly play a significant role in his decision. If Trump loses, he likely starts as the presumptive front runner for 2028. If Trump wins, that position may go to Trumps vice president but may not. Kamala Harris and Dan Quayle are proof that someone may not be up to the job just because theyve got it.

An important position in Trumps Cabinet could be an interesting way to stay relevant and boost DeSantis profile. Assuming he can get along with longtime Trump aide Stephen Miller, DeSantis could benefit from being the Secretary of Homeland Security. That position is in charge of border control, and Trump may like having someone who is politically and administratively competent in the top job. DeSantis would likely relish the idea of being known as the man who either stopped illegal migration or battled Democrats daily as they tried to stop him.

Becoming Defense Secretary might also be appealing. Its not the governor of Florida, but this role would boost DeSantiss foreign policy chops while putting him in the popular position of backing Americas military. He could also be the conservative hero who ended woke practices in the military, an increasingly important staple in conservative policy circles.

DeSantis could also choose to follow Ronald Reagans footsteps and simply stay put. Reagan chose to do that after his failed run at the 1968 GOP nomination, and that set him up for his future national campaigns. DeSantis could even run for a Senate seat in 2028 if incumbent Marco Rubio decides not to seek a fourth term.

The decision to drop out now must have been painful, but it was the right one. DeSantis lives to fight another day, and sometimes thats all one can ask for.

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When Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Sunday that he was suspending his campaign for the Republican presidential nomination, he posted a quote on X and attributed it to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts," the quote read.

There was just one problem: Churchill never said that.

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

"Winston Churchill has become something of the king of fake quotes  a phenomenon the Internet has pushed to the extreme," said the Winston Churchill Project at Michigan's Hillsdale College, which counted the quote DeSantis used among two examples of "aspirational phrases" wrongly attributed to Churchill.

Similarly, the International Churchill Society says they can find "no attribution" of this quote to Churchill, adding that this quote is incorrectly yet "broadly attributed to Churchill."

The society also says that a nearly equal number of online sources credit Abraham Lincoln with the saying, but that they have "found none that provides any attribution in the Lincoln Archives."

In 2013, the Churchill Society published a response to a column in the Atlanta Journal Constitution that also incorrectly attributed the quote to Churchill.

"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," said the Society of their conclusion.

CBS News has reached out to the DeSantis campaign, but has yet to hear back.

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In the days leading up to the Iowa caucuses, top advisers to Ron DeSantis steeled themselves for a grim result. The polling that for months told them enough Republicans there were ready to move on from Donald Trump was now predicting that most of them wouldnt, and they began to consider options for the Florida governor with his political future in mind.

They presented DeSantis with a range of potential outcomes and paths forward. In the event of a dominating performance by Trump, they pitched that DeSantis could bow out, endorse the former president, finish his second term as governor and rebuild his reputation with an eye toward 2028.

He rejected the idea outright, according to a source familiar with the exchange. That was the end of that conversation.

Or so they thought. On Sunday, less than a week after a crushing defeat in Iowa and days before New Hampshire voters are expected to deliver another one, DeSantis bowed out of the 2024 presidential race. In a scripted video statement from Florida, DeSantis endorsed Trump and looked ahead to finishing his second term as governor.

His exit marked a stunning fall for a Republican who for a time appeared singularly positioned to pull the party from Trumps vice grip. DeSantis once seemed to have it all: money and momentum behind him, a compelling background, a generational argument and a success story to share. Some early polls actually showed him with a lead over Trump.

But what he didnt have was room for error running up against a popular former president. And the DeSantis campaign made many of them, his advisers, allies and supporters have acknowledged to CNN in interviews.

Every single thing that could have not gone as we had hoped or planned for went horribly wrong, one close adviser said.

DeSantis has suggested the race would be different if Trump wasnt facing four indictments and 91 charges in federal and state courts. Many of his advisers also believe Trumps legal peril galvanized Republicans just as the GOP presidential contest was about to get underway, closing an opening for an alternative. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley will attempt to test how wide that opening is in the coming days and weeks.

I would say if I could have one thing change, I wish Trump hadnt been indicted on any of this stuff, DeSantis told the Christian Broadcasting Network in December.

But over a campaign that stretched eight months, there is little DeSantis team could point to that they did right  from the disastrous, glitchy kickoff announcement on Twitter Spaces with Elon Musk to the Iowa ground operation that was supposed to overcome Trumps popularity and arctic weather to deliver a surprise outcome that would shock the country.

It was that final miscalculation that ultimately provided the knockout blow. Not only did the result in Iowa evaporate enthusiasm for his campaign, it also sapped it of credibility. He had promised victory in the Hawkeye State, convinced that the polls hadnt captured his 99-county tour of the state and insisted the nearly 1 million doors his supporters had touched would be rewarded.

Instead, Iowa revealed how ineffective his effort had been all along  his ground game, his message, his strategy, all exposed as a paper tiger and turning his candidacy into a punchline in Republican circles.

Historic disaster, said one veteran Republican fundraiser once hopeful of DeSantis chances. JV team.

Veteran GOP strategists Curt Anderson and Alex Castellanos called it the Worst Republican Presidential Campaign Ever in a blistering audit written for Politico that was devoured Friday by DeSantis allies and enemies alike.

Its a title DeSantis earned as much for what he squandered as how he fared.

Republican presidential candidate and Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, speaks during a campaign event in Hampton, New Hampshire, on January 17, 2024. - Joseph Prezioso/AFP/Getty Images

A slow start

DeSantis White House bid carried more than just the weight of a political campaign.

He thinks hes on a mission from God, one close confidant described DeSantis drive to become president.

Its an attitude captured in the closing message of his 2022 reelection campaign: A black-and-white video posted to social media by his wife, Casey, that suggested God created DeSantis, a fighter, on the eighth day.

After a 19-point reelection victory that November, some in the Republican Party were at least ready to anoint him the inevitable heir to Trump.

DeFuture, the New York Post declared the day after, the culmination of two years of Rupert Murdochs media empire showering DeSantis with praise for his pandemic contrarianism and cultural battles.

Trump, already a candidate for president once again, was ready for a fight. He called his former ally an average Republican governor as the buzz around DeSantis reached new heights and escalated the attacks from there.

But DeSantis, who once donned a Top Gun outfit to declare he would never back down from a fight, opted not to punch back. He instead put his focus on the 2023 legislative session in Florida, plotting an agenda of long-sought conservative priorities  universal school choice, a near ban on abortion, fewer restrictions on guns  that would serve as the platform for a policy-oriented presidential campaign. He also escalated his fight with Disney over new state restrictions on teaching sexual orientation and gender identity by taking control of the companys special taxing district.

He didnt step foot in Iowa until March to sell his new book. His first earnest swipe at the former president  a dig at the hush money payments allegedly made to adult film star Stormy Daniels  was followed days later by DeSantis defending Trump in the face of an indictment in a New York case related to those payments.

The war had begun and we were kind of sitting on our backsides, a source close to the campaign said, describing the time when DeSantis was traveling around the country on a book tour but had yet to formally announce. It left his team unable to push back on his behalf as Trump and his allies pounded the governor, ultimately spending $21 million in ads seeking to define DeSantis when he wouldnt punch back.

Meanwhile, an emerging super PAC, led by veteran GOP strategist Jeff Roe and Ken Cuccinelli, a former homeland security official in the Trump administration, was given the keys to the DeSantis financial coffers. The super PAC, Never Back Down, received $83 million from DeSantis former state political committee in a move that a campaign finance watchdog group flagged as potentially illegal, but nevertheless provided an unprecedented financial advantage for the Republican governor.

In an unusual arrangement, Never Back Down was asked to take on many tasks traditionally reserved for campaigns, including training paid canvassers and hosting the governors events. Roe and others promised a novel concept that would change presidential campaigns forever.

But Never Back Downs team of seasoned political consultants clashed immediately with the inexperienced but scrappy Tallahassee team that had just steered DeSantis to a historic gubernatorial victory. The early squabbling, which the media quickly caught wind of, was a precursor to a summer and fall of discontent that ultimately ended with several top staff and advisers leaving acrimoniously, including Roe.

Meanwhile, the Republican donor class that rained six- and seven-figure checks on DeSantis during his reelection bid suddenly had second thoughts. Some voiced displeasure with his contentious second-term agenda and fixation with Disney. Others wanted to kick the tires on other GOP candidates after all.

The DeSantis financial team wrongly assumed the flush times wouldnt end, and they budgeted for $200 million between the campaign and super PAC at launch with a goal of amassing half a billion dollars by the year. Instead, the super PAC had raised $130 million by June 30  a historically large amount that nevertheless fell well short of expectations.

Pick a name, another fundraiser said. Every one of them, it was expected they would keep giving.

His fundraising team downplayed the pull back at the time, with one person telling CNN it would only be a problem if Ken Griffin, the billionaire hedge fund owner who helped bankroll DeSantis reelection, decided he wouldnt donate. They expected $25 million from him.

Griffin ultimately did not give a cent toward DeSantis White House bid.

If you had told me finances would be the problem, I would have hung up on you as needing a mental health check, the fundraiser continued. All the dynamics that Trump would be difficult to beat I expected, but I believed there was enough of a coalition of the willing to fund an opposition candidate.

Ad spending by Never Back Down peaked in mid-April  before DeSantis had officially entered the race.

A glitch-filled launch

By the time DeSantis was ready to announce, his entire political operation was on edge.

People already felt like it was an uphill battle, the fundraiser said.

There was a contentious debate among DeSantiss orbit over how best to launch the candidate, with some people pushing for a more traditional announcement from his hometown of Dunedin followed by stops in Iowa and New Hampshire, according to a source familiar with the conversations. But that approach was rejected by the woman who would be announced as DeSantis campaign manager, Generra Peck.

Another idea emerged to do something with Elon Musk and X, formerly known as Twitter, which ultimately snowballed into the final idea of the two appearing together on Spaces to broadcast a live announcement. The ideas supporters argued it was a nontraditional announcement for a nontraditional campaign, according to a source familiar with the discussions.

But donors and other DeSantis allies worried after all the build-up to his candidacy there would be no visual of DeSantis actually announcing his run to air on television stations across the country. A compromise was struck with DeSantis immediately going on Fox News after the Spaces launch to talk about his campaign. An intermediary took the idea to Musk, who agreed.

Musks website, though, crashed repeatedly during the announcement, which quickly became the narrative of his introduction as a presidential candidate.

It could have been cool and successful, one source familiar with the launch told CNN, but the glitchiness at the top was perhaps a foreshadowing of the campaign to come.

Donors gathered in a glitzy Miami hotel for the launch were stunned, and grew more furious when Peck and others tried to spin it as DeSantis breaking the Internet.

As coverage of these early stumbles on mainstream news outlets snowballed, DeSantis stayed inside a right-wing media bubble. He spoke almost exclusively to Fox News, conservative radio stations and right-wing podcasters, ignoring some aides who pushed aggressively for DeSantis to do more with the national media from the very beginning.

DeSantis instead listened to others in his orbit, particularly Christina Pushaw and Bryan Griffin, both of whom joined his campaign from the governors office and encouraged him to continue to ignore the mainstream media. He now acknowledges that decision was a mistake.

I came in not really doing as much media, DeSantis recently told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. I should have just been blanketing. I should have gone on all the corporate shows. I should have gone on everything.

We had an opportunity, I think, to come out of the gate and do that and reach a much broader folk, he added.

Republican presidential candidate Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks to guests during a campaign rally at the Thunderdome on December 2, 2023 in Newton, Iowa. - Scott Olson/Getty Images

Challenges pile up

The abnormalities surrounding DeSantis campaign continued to stack from there.

It quickly became apparent that the campaign grew too quickly for its financial situation. In mid-July, the trickle of layoffs began. Meanwhile, DeSantis pulled back plans for a national campaign and refocused his efforts almost exclusively on Iowa.

Yet, as his campaign shrunk, it spent $1.5 million on private planes through September, campaign finance reports show, and held donor retreats at posh locations, like a resort in Park City, Utah.

A bizarre series of events on July 25 illustrated the disconnect. DeSantis flew privately into Tennessee for a fundraiser. Once on the ground, his four-vehicle motorcade was involved in an accident, including the car carrying the governor. That same day, his campaign cut one-third of its staff. And Never Back Down aired its last ad in South Carolina.

Two weeks later, Peck was fired.

Yet, amid the turmoil, DeSantis team, led by his top pollster Ryan Tyson, assured donors and operatives that there was an opening in Iowa. Each time they went into the field, their poll numbers showed a growing pool of Republicans open to moving on from Trump. They assumed the surge of support for the former president was a sugar rush from his indictments that would eventually end.

But rather than a coherent message around his candidacy, there was a scattershot of approaches in the ads coming from the super PAC and the campaign. It was largely left up to DeSantis to win over Trump voters through appearances in the state.

Across his 99-county tour of Iowa, DeSantis struggled to articulate a coherent rationale for his candidacy and focused more often on his past accomplishments as a governor than his ideas for the future. He regularly responded to questions from Iowans with actions he took in Florida, rattling off local terms from back home and sometimes leaving crowds perplexed.

His speeches sometimes required a glossary for regular Republicans to understand: woke, ESG, DEI, CRT, Central Bank Digital Currency, social credit scores, Zuckerbucks  all words, phrases and acronyms that were staples of DeSantis campaign appearances, media interviews and debate responses.

Still, there were moments when it seemed DeSantis was on the cusp of gaining momentum, such as when Iowas popular governor, Kim Reynolds, endorsed him in November.

But that evening also offered a window into his flailing candidacy.

Her involvement represented a momentous coup for DeSantis and a striking break from a tradition from her predecessors. In a stirring speech that night inside a Des Moines event space, she defended her involvement and made an impassioned case for the like-minded conservative governor from Florida.

Yet, during his turn at the mic, DeSantis delivered a largely rote speech filled with familiar lines from his six-month tour of the state, an extended riff off his Florida accomplishments and the woke forces he had destroyed. There were only a few passing references to the woman who risked her political capital to back him. He said little that night to suggest he had grown as a politician during his bruising uphill fight for the nomination or had learned much about Iowa or its people despite spending hundreds of hours in the state and meeting thousands of its residents. At times, the crowd could barely muster more than polite cheering.

After stepping off the stage, he shook hands and posed for pictures for 10 minutes from behind a barrier, leaving Reynolds to mingle with his supporters.

The night laid bare the promise and the shortcomings of DeSantis as a presidential candidate. An exacting and relentless leader, DeSantis could execute a game plan as well as anyone but lacked a feel for the campaign trail and struggled to stir a room. He could summon the energy to barnstorm across the state for weeks on end but often appeared disinterested in the people who showed up to hear him.

In the end, a politician who had seemingly done everything necessary to win Iowa  shown up, spent money, secured endorsements  could not win over Iowans.

DeSantis himself acknowledged the limits of the key endorsements he often touted on the trail.

Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis greets supporters at his caucus night event on January 15, 2024, in West Des Moines, Iowa. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

A day before suspending his campaign, he told reporters in Myrtle Beach, Iowa Republican leadership lined up behind me, and we came in second, in response to a question about Trumps new support in South Carolina.

And yet, in the face of this overwhelming rejection of his pitch to Make America Florida, DeSantis refused to change gears. The contours of his stump speech stayed the same as he half-heartedly moved on to South Carolina. Vote for me, he told Republicans there, because I have already done the stuff you supposedly like.

Even in defeat, DeSantis vowed to continue to take on woke ideology.

While this campaign has ended, the mission continues down here in Florida, DeSantis said as he signed off. We will continue to show the country how to lead.

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Ron DeSantis is the perfect Republican presidential candidate that never was. His failed campaign  he announced Sunday night that he was suspending his effort and endorsed Donald Trump  is a microcosm of everything thats wrong with politics today. Especially Trump and his MAGA fanbase.

On paper, DeSantis has a lot going for him: An incredible record as Floridas governor  improving education, effectively handling hurricanes and relief efforts, and championing parental rights. DeSantis is also a liberty-minded conservative with a military background, a cute family, and a penchant for telling reporters how it is. These things endeared him to Florida voters.

While Joe Biden says America is already great and Trump says hell make America great again, DeSantis actually made Florida great. It seemed obvious that his successful governorship would translate nationwide.

But right away as a candidate, DeSantis struggled, especially during the presidential debates, The way he handled Trump, the hold Trump has on Republican voters and the superficiality of politics did DeSantis in.

Outside Florida and on the national stage, DeSantis seemed less confident, almost awkward. Though Trump was never in the room where it happened, DeSantis laid into him. He jabbed at others and his success in Florida got lost in the shuffle every time he uttered Trumps name. What DeSantis lacked in charm and chemistry he made up for in governing success, but the GOP electorate doesnt notice those things when Trumps aura is in the air.

DeSantis might have done slightly better if hed pretended Trump didnt exist, but in the long run, it still wouldnt have mattered.

Trump has a chokehold on much of the GOP, demanding unceasing loyalty. Theres an idea for this, and its called negative partisanship:The tendency for partisan voters to be animated by how much they dont like the other side. Its Trump 101.

Alan I. Abramowitz, an author and professor emeritus at Emory University, explains it like this. Attacks on Trump by Democrats, liberals, and mainstream media figures and even indictments by federal and state prosecutors on serious criminal charges have only served to reinforce the loyalty of Republican voters to Trump, Abramowitz writes. Republican voters see these attacks and indictments as efforts by the hated opposition party and its allies to weaken the former president and prevent his return to the White House.

Through that lens, DeSantis didnt stand a chance, even though he has so much going for him.

Theres one other problem with DeSantis that kept his campaign from getting off the ground, and it speaks more to the image-obsessed state of politics today.

Even though Trump isnt traditionally charming like JFK or even Barack Obama, he has a certain type of appeal to a swath of voters. He doesnt care what people think and he calls it the way he sees it. His bizarre bravado is unmatched and undeniable. His narcissism is mistaken for being anti-establishment.

Trump enjoyed some policy success as president, and legal charges against him have actually strengthened him, at least so far. Hes Al Capone meets Bill Clinton with an R slapped on him. On top of it, Trumps wealth and former playboy status give him a rogue charm. Americans love a juxtaposition.

Trump has somehow swiped the golden chaff from each shiny industry that matters to Americans most now  from New York money to real estate to Hollywood reality television  and hes slathered it on himself from head to toe. All that glitters is not gold, but whos to know? And worse, who cares? He still looks shiny enough for Republicans to see something they like.

That Trump, a billionaire, would come down from his ivory Trump Tower to check on the plebes and even  gasp!  advocate for them, is endearing, charming and magnetizing, in a Xerxes-meets-Leonidas kind of way. Were not worthy, you can hear MAGA voters whisper. Only they dont hold the line for freedom; they give in to fandom.

Americans think they want Trump because theyre obsessed with his image, when really, DeSantis would be better, for all the reasons his campaign came to an end. Republicans blew their chance at a superior candidate. Now, they deserve Trump.
A week ago, at a campaign rally outside Des Moines, Ron DeSantis let loose on Donald Trump, telling a packed room of supporters that the former president had no interest in rewarding conservative values and is only interested in one thing: personal loyalty.

You can be the strongest, most dynamic, successful Republican and conservative in America, but if you dont kiss that ring, then hell try to trash you, DeSantis said at a banquet hall in Ankeny, Iowa.

But as he withdrew from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, DeSantis puckered up.

In a video announcing that he was suspending his campaign, the Florida governor endorsed Trump, saying that while he had disagreements with the former president, Trump is a far better option than President Joe Biden.

I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge, DeSantis said.

DeSantis about-face makes him the latest Republican politician to warn of Trumps shortcomings only to turn around and get behind the former president. But after a campaign that saw DeSantis steadily ramp up his attacks on Trump, getting back on his good side of a president with a penchant for holding both personal and political grudges could prove challenging.

Before dropping out, DeSantis accused Trump of not being pro-life during a nationally televised CNN town hall, faulted him for failing to deliver on his campaign promises during his time in the White House, panned him for his COVID-19 policies and warned Republican voters that nominating Trump would pave the way for Bidens reelection.

He definitely has to work for this, Bryan Lanza, who worked on Trumps 2016 campaign and remains close to the former presidents team, said of DeSantis. He went after President Trump viciously.

Can he get back in his good graces? Lanza asked. I dont know.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference outside of the Thomas F. Sullivan Ice Arena on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, in Manchester, New Hampshire.

READ MORE: 5 reasons DeSantis presidential campaign collapsed before the GOPs first primary

DeSantis struggled throughout his campaign with how to approach Trump, who despite losing reelection in 2020 maintains an iron grip over the Republican Partys conservative voter base. For months, the governor avoided going after Trump too directly, choosing instead to enumerate the ways in which he was different from the former president.

Meanwhile, the pro-DeSantis super PAC Never Back Down aired ads targeting Trump. One spot released by the group last summer used artificial intelligence to mimic Trumps voice, while another ad blasted him for criticizing Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, who had endorsed DeSantis for the presidential nomination.

But ahead of the Iowa caucuses  the first-in-the-nation nominating contest on which DeSantis campaign had placed a hefty bet  the governor and his allies began sharpening their attacks.

At campaign events, he told voters that he would keep the promises that Trump had made and failed to deliver on. U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, a key DeSantis ally who regularly appeared with the governor at his campaign stops, made a habit of drawing laughs from DeSantis supporters by impersonating Trump.

Two days before DeSantis dropped out, his campaign team, which in October launched a Trump accident tracker to highlight the former presidents missteps and slip-ups during his campaign speeches, mocked Trump for confusing Nancy Pelosi and Nikki Haley. We could go with this or the 45 year-old in his prime, stated a post by the @DeSantisWarRoom account on X.

RELATED CONTENT: DeSantis offered to Make America Florida. Voters in Iowa and N.H. shrugged

In the hours after DeSantis ended his presidential campaign, Trump signaled that hes willing to leave their rivalry in the past. His campaign said in a statement that it was honored to have DeSantis endorsement, while Trump told supporters at a campaign stop in New Hampshire on Sunday that he would stop referring to DeSantis as Ron DeSanctimonious, the nickname he had bestowed on the Florida governor.

Trump has put some campaign-trail feuds behind him in the past. After a bruising 2016 presidential primary fight against U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, the two men developed something of an alliance during Trumps tenure in the White House; Cruz largely voted in line with Trumps agenda, while Trump  whom Cruz had called a sniveling coward after Trump mocked his wife  endorsed Cruzs 2018 Senate reelection campaign.

The same was true for Trumps relationship with U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, whom Trump dubbed little Marco as the two competed for the 2016 nomination. Rubio, whod told voters that Trump couldnt be entrusted with a nuclear arsenal, endorsed him after dropping out, saying, like DeSantis, that hed signed a loyalty pledge to back the Republican Partys eventual nominee. (Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who signed the same pledge when he ran for president in 2016, did not endorse Trump.)

Rubio endorsed Trump for the 2024 nod over DeSantis just before the Iowa caucuses.

Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley departs after attending a meet and greet at the Robie Country Store on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Hooksett, New Hampshire. Haley is the last candidate standing against Trump after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race.

Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who worked for Rubios unsuccessful 2016 presidential campaign, said that DeSantis decision to endorse Trump was mutually beneficial.

Trump is eager to show a united party. Thats why hes leaning very hard on elected politicians and failed opponents to endorse him, Conant said. On the other hand, I think Ron DeSantis wants to put presidential politics behind him as quickly as possible. He wants to endorse Trump and go back to Tallahassee and be governor, and dragging out his presidential campaign any longer isnt in his interest.

But both Lanza and Conant said that DeSantis failed presidential bid will continue to haunt him in one way or another. Conant said that DeSantis had largely depleted his political capital in Florida and nationally, and faces the difficult process of rebuilding his reputation. Lanza, on the other hand, said that DeSantis will need to rely on Trump to make up lost ground.

I think its safe to say that unless Donald Trump tries to prop up Ron DeSantis, his political career is over, Lanza said. He has so alienated the base that its hard to see how anyone takes him seriously as a candidate going forward.
The Russian invaders whine that the command has left them to their own devices

Against the backdrop of the expansion of the Ukrainian bridgehead on the east bank of the Dnipro in Kherson Oblast, Russian units stationed near Krynky issued a direct appeal to Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in violation of the chain of command, according to a video shared on Telegram on Jan. 20.

The video depicted the soldiers describing the dire conditions they are enduring and criticizing the leadership of the Russian Armed Forces.

Read also: Prominent Russian drone operator Moisei neutralized in Krynky

According to the soldiers appeal, the Russian command refuses to recognize its failures in the sector.

"We are asking Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to deal with the catastrophe that is playing out in the village of Krynky," the soldiers said.

Read also: Russian invaders escalate combat in Tavria operational zone  Tarnavskyi

We have been here since Aug. 2, 2023. It is now Jan. 20, 2024. In these almost seven months, we have not had a single day off, not a single rotation. Since Aug. 2, we have been under constant shelling ... There are a lot of enemy drones in the sky Many of our brothers in arms left Krynky among the 300 wounded, and those who were less lucky  among the 200 killed in action. Many of the wounded die while being evacuated.

Fatigue among Russian troops near Krynky is "growing every day," they claim.

"However, our command does not rotate people, does not let us go on well-deserved leave, does not even provide us with winter uniforms. We buy generators with our own money. Food and gasoline are delivered in minimal quantities. Because of this, we have to go to the store, 7.5 kilometers from our location. The road to the store is exposed to fire. Some of us are killed along the way.

Meanwhile, British intelligence writes that the Russians are unable to drive out the Ukrainian military from the east bank, despite their numerical superiority.



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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Idaho lawmakers could soon allow teachers and other school employees to carry concealed weapons on school grounds and shield information about the staffers armed at school from public records requests.

Rep. Edward Hill, R-Eagle, introduced a bill Monday that would let public school staffers who have enhanced concealed weapons permits to carry firearms on campuses. Employees would not need permission from administrators or the school board. The legislation would also require every school to remove any gun-free zone signs or face a fine. The changes would not apply to universities.

Hill told a legislative committee that the safest course for schools would be to hire full-time security guards, but that it costs too much money.

Theres a desperate need to secure our schools against people who want to harm our children, Hill said. We want to close that gap, those critical 3-5 minutes where all the carnage happens.

Enhanced permits are available to anyone over 21 who has been an Idaho resident for at least six months, taken an 8-hour gun course, submitted to a background check and been fingerprinted, according to Idaho law. Licenses are issued by the local sheriff.

The proposed bill would also require the employees to have immediate control over their concealed weapons while at school.

The staffers would have to inform the school principal of their decision and show them their concealed carry licenses, but the principal isnt required to share that information with the school board. The school would be required to maintain a list of all their employees licensed to carry guns at school, along with a photo of each employee, and share it with local law enforcement to assist police in the exercise of their duties.

The Boise School District opposes any effort to remove our locally elected school board trustees from the decision-making process, spokesperson Dan Hollar told the Idaho Statesman by email. The district will continue to work closely with law enforcement and other security professionals to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The bill would exempt records that identify armed school staffers from Idahos public records law, and it would protect them from any civil or criminal liability for the use of their firearms during a lethal threat to safety at the school.

National studies have shown the U.S. has much higher rates of gun deaths than other peer countries. The U.S. also has the highest rate of per capita gun ownership, according to the Small Arms Survey, and some of the least restrictive guns laws in the world.

This story was updated 5:45 p.m. Jan. 23 to include a statement from the Boise School District.

Want the latest news on the Idaho Legislature? Sign up for Capitol Letters, a newsletter we send for every day of the legislative session. We'll keep you up to date on bills in the process of becoming law.
CHICAGO -- Every great city deserves an easily identifiable sandwich of its own. Whether its the Philadelphia cheesesteak or the New Orleans poboy, a gut-busting sandwich is a matter of civic pride.

When most people think of Chicagos sandwich of choice, the first answer is usually the Italian beef sandwich. (Unless you are one of those people who thinks a hot dog is a sandwich.) After all, you can find one in most neighborhoods, and locals love to argue relentlessly about where to find the best. The popularity of the sandwich has only grown recently thanks to The Bear, an FX show that follows a fine dining chef who has to return to his familys Italian beef stand.

But looking through the Tribunes archives, its a bit shocking to find that the Italian beef hasnt been the obvious sandwich choice for that long. Unlike barbecue, which shows up in the archives all the way back in the 1850s, the Italian beef doesnt even make an appearance until the 1950s.

Chicagoans were eating sandwiches with beef long before then, though. Its just that they were either roast beef sandwiches or, more likely, corned beef sandwiches.

As critic Louisa Chu explained well back in 2019, Chicago is a corned beef town, unlike New York, Los Angeles or Montreal, where they prefer pastrami. While true today, Chicagoans were apparently even more obsessed with corned beef in the early 20th century.

That was when John P. Harding, also known as Corned Beef John, had 12 restaurants downtown serving the dish, including Harding Grill (131 N. Clark St.) and Hardings Colonial Room (21 S. Wabash Ave.). According to an article from Sept. 22, 1922, Harding started the craze for the make em before your eyes corned beef sandwich. An article from Aug. 15, 1926, went even further, claiming his chief bid for fame, however, is in having made the corned beef sandwich what it is today.

The Tribune loved to throw superlatives at Harding. He transformed the Star Theater at 68 W. Madison into a restaurant in 1918, and when he planned to open another downtown restaurant, the paper felt the need to write this: Mr. Harding four years ago answered in the affirmative the momentous question: Is the corned beef sandwich mightier than the movies.

Corned beef also made Harding a very rich man. On Dec. 4, 1928, the Tribune referred to Harding as a millionaire restaurant owner, while noting how he wielded a knife dexterously when he carved corned beef for fifty guests at a dinner given last night in honor of Harry Hackney of Atlantic City, president of the National Restaurant Association.

So when did the Italian beef overtake corned beef? The 1920s is when many of the Italian beef origin stories pop up, with both Pasquale Scala and Tony Ferreri mentioned as possibly inventing the dish. Unfortunately, I couldnt find any mentions in the Tribune archive during that time period.

In fact, the first clear mention of the Italian beef that I was able to find wasnt until June 28, 1953. It wasnt exactly a grand introduction. The very short post, titled Old Peoples Home Aids Plan Benefit Picnic, explains how the ladies auxiliary and mens league of Villa Scalabrini will hold their second annual picnic at noon next Sunday at the villa in Northlake  Italian beef and sausage sandwiches and spumoni will be served [to] guests. Thats it.

According to The Chicago Food Encyclopedia, the origins of the Italian beef probably werent from either Scala or Ferreri, but instead lie in Italian American home cooking. In particular, the book points to so-called peanut weddings in the 1920s where the dish was often served because it was affordable and could easily feed a crowd.

As noted above, nothing was mentioned during the time, but on May 11, 1979, the Chicago Italian American Organization did an advertisement for a 40s Italian Wedding fundraiser where you could experience an authentic 1940s Italian peanut wedding. The first food mentioned is the beef sandwich.

The Italian beef pops up occasionally in the 1950s and 1960s, though most often in restaurant ads, like the one on Nov. 14, 1954, for the grand opening of delivery service for Barsantis Grill at 3404 Lincoln Ave., which specialized in pizza, spaghetti, ravioli, Italian beef sandwiches, bar-b-q ribs, southern fried chicken and french fried shrimp. On July 28, 1963, The New Parkette at 105th and Western printed its menu, which shows that an Italian beef sandwich cost 60 cents.

On May 26, 1962, we get what may be the first recipe for the Italian beef from Mary Meade. (As I found out recently, the name was a pseudonym for a number of different women writers.) Theres a lot of tomato paste, which isnt as common today, but the recipe looks pretty close. Plus it has the first mention of dipping bread in the beef juices: In the true Italian fashion, the sliced Italian or French bread should be dipped into the stock before being layered with the thin slices of beef.

But it was not until the 1970s that the Italian beef truly took off with Tribune reporters. On May 17, 1975, in the Chicago Tribune Magazine, Charles Leroux visited a number of drive-ins around the city, including Mr. Beef: They have a wonderfully spicy sausage sandwich [75 cents] and a killer Italian beef sandwich [$1.05]. A photographer friend says he cant face the drive home without a Mr. Beef beef dripping into his lap.

Even cats started appreciating the sandwich. In one of the stranger stories Ive ever come across in the archives, author Mary Daniels wrote on Oct. 6, 1976, about Nick Fischers cat that weighed 23 pounds and once stole an 11-pound turkey. Then Fischer explained that when he gets a beef sandwich, I have to get him one, too. Without peppers.

By Jan. 8, 1979, the Italian beef was apparently so ubiquitous that Phyllis Magida could write this: Rare is the Chicagoan who doesnt know to dip pierogi in sour cream, or how to hold a taco, or to demand hot pepper with Italian beef.

The Italian beef really took off in the 1980s. In a Sept. 26, 1980, article about where to spot celebrities in the city, Barbara Molotsky wrote that Neil Diamond apparently really liked the Italian beef at Als. The sandwich became a fixture for numerous businesses at Taste of Chicago, which launched for the first time in 1980. Even fine dining chefs started discussing the sandwich. In an article from Oct. 15, 1982, Gail Bernstein asked chefs where they enjoyed eating after closing time, and multiple chefs mentioned grabbing an Italian beef. On Nov. 3, 1983, JeanMarie Brownson even offered a recipe for cheesy Italian beef sandwiches, proving that cheese was a common topping for the sandwich in the 1980s.

By Sept. 15, 1989, Manuel Galvan felt confident enough to declare that the Italian beef was Chicagos sandwich. That said, the article is more interesting for mentioning that Jay Leno, who at that time didnt have his own show, brought a bagful of beefs to Late Night with David Letterman when it was taping in Chicago four months before. As he and the host traded laughs, Leno ate a couple of Italian beefs and frequently told the Chicago audience the sandwiches came from Mr. Beef.

This is around the time when Chicago transplants started writing in to complain about how they cant get a good Italian beef anywhere else. On Aug. 16, 1990, Edward Agustin from Norcross, Georgia, wrote a plea for help from a displaced Chicagoan about how much he missed the wet mess of sandwich. On July 25, 2001, Jerry Goodman from Florida said hed love a recipe for the sandwich because he really missed those morsels.

Finally, on Oct. 12, 2005, there was no doubt about the status of the Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. Thats when the sandwich was included in Bill Daleys article about 10 Chicago icons. There the Italian beef shared space with other recognized Chicago food classics like deep-dish pizza and the Chicago hot dog.

____

Nick Kindelsperger is a former Tribune food critic.
Niles Township High School District 219 Superintendent Thomas Moore announced at a recent meeting that Niles North High School Principal James Edwards is set to leave at the end of the school year.

Moore said Edwards announced his upcoming departure before the winter break, and he wanted to give Edwards some time to be with the community while still finding a way to publicly thank him.

I wish him (Edwards) happiness, joy and fulfillment, and Im glad to get to continue learning from and with him over the next six months, said Moore.

Moore made the announcement in his superintendent report at the Jan. 9 Board of Education meeting.

Moore noted that Edwards would graduate with this years senior class and will be focusing on the next steps of his lifes journey.

Edwards declined to comment when reached by Pioneer Press.

According to previous Pioneer Press reporting, Edwards was hired as Niles Norths principal and started the school year in 2016. He served as South Elgin High Schools principal for three years before that.

Edwards was assistant principal for curriculum for three years at Elmwood Park High School and, prior to that, served as an assistant principal at Morton West High School for a year and as dean of students for two years. He has also served as a classroom teacher.

According to the districts website, Edwards earned his Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Curriculum Foundations at Chicago State University. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Secondary Education from DePaul University.

Moore said the district would start the hiring process within the coming weeks. We will find someone who will take North to the next part of its journey, said Moore.
When the alarms sounded at 6:30 a.m. on October 7 near her home in central Israel, Shelly Shem Tov was not immediately concerned. "We are in a crazy country where the bombs are regular," she told herself. Nevertheless, Shem Tov called her son Omer, 21, whom she'd seen the day beforeher 50th birthdayshortly before he headed off to a music festival. Her youngest child assured her he was fine. Then Omer called back, he and his friends were trying to escape; they were running for the car. Shem Tov tracked her son on his phone and could see his location live. Something wasn't right; the car was going in the wrong direction, into Gaza.

By midday on October 7, Emilie Moatti's phone was exploding with messages from people all over the world asking what they could do to help. The onetime member of the Knesset for the Israeli Labor Party and peace activist did not yet have any idea of the size and scope of the catastrophe. What she did know, because she knew the actors in the government, was that nothing was going to happen if she didn't do something. "Call your colleagues," she told her husband Daniel Shek, the former Israeli ambassador to France. "Tell them to come home. We are starting a headquarters."

On October 8, Rebecca Shafrir and her husband Gideon were watching a news program from their apartment in Tel Aviv, an interview with Hadas Calderon, whose two children had been taken hostage. A fourth-generation Israeli, Gideon wondered how this could happen in the most protected country with the most capable military and, also, why wasn't this being handled? Shafrir, who had experience as a fundraiser,* knew she had to either start handling it or fight with her husband. She started making calls.

There is no road map for what to do when your child is abducted by terrorists; when 1,400 of your countrymen are slaughtered and hundreds of others kidnapped; when the world variously shows sympathy or skepticism; when local authorities are too swamped or self-interested to reach out. Shem Tov, in fact, did not hear from any state official until days after she'd seen a video of Omer on the floor of a pickup truck, his hands cuffed.

(Photo: Nancy Rommelmann)

"This is how I help; this is how I don't go crazy," she says of spending 12 hours a day at Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Tel Aviv, an organization formed by a handful of Israelis within 48 hours of the October 7 massacre. It's a space where people can bring their sorrow and industry: Bakers bake bread, the rich give cash, and citizens2000 to date, all volunteersset up tents in a square within sight of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) headquarters. There, hostage families can rest and protest to ensure their loved ones are not forgotten, a 21st-century version of "making the desert bloom," born of a similar refusal to give in to desperation and the death their neighbors might wish for them.

"This is an entirely civilian operation, a grassroots sort of pop-up," says Shafrir. The forum is currently operating out of a six-story building donated by an Israeli security company, all expenses paid for a year. In mid-January, the halls of the forum are in constant motion, lawyers speaking with representatives from the Hague; holistic practitioners massaging the bedraggled; Emmy- and Israeli Academy Awardwinning filmmakers creating marketing campaigns; and IDF reservists with siblings held in Gaza ducking questions from nosy reporters.

(Photo: Nancy Rommelmann)

"I think that everybody needs to do what they know how to do best," says Dorit Gvili, COO of the advertising agency Publicis One Israel. Before October 7, Gvili spent her days "selling people shampoo and cars and beautiful stuff." Now she coordinates teams making videos, logos, billboards, and social media posts, anything to keep the hostages in the public eye.

(Photo: Nancy Rommelmann)

(Photo: Nancy Rommelmann)

"When Seinfeld came, I told him, 'You don't have the best creative team, I have the best creative team!" she says of comedian Jerry Seinfeld dropping in during a recent trip to Israel, one of an uncounted number of people who come to express support and, sometimes, astonishment.

"I had a guy here from Ukraine. He told me, 'You succeed to do so much noise for 250 [hostages]. We had 20,000 children abducted by Russia, and nobody knows,'" Gvili recalls. "So yes, people are still talking about us. We're giving them reason to talk about us. It's not yesterday's news. And three months into the situation, it's still only volunteers, no government."

Nor have politicians shown interest. "The new minister of foreign health came last week for the first time," says Moatti. When asked whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has come by, Moatti gets sly.

"I'm not sure he was invited," she says.

Shafrir says the prime minister has been invited, including to speak at a rally commemorating the hostages' 100 days in captivity. "He refused. No one from the government spoke, no one wants to be associated with us," she says. "They want to say, 'You stop the war or get the hostages, not both.' But we can do both. We can get the hostages and then stop the war."

How do you do this? If you're a pizza-maker from Haifa, a cartoonist from Jerusalem, or a mother from Herzliya living in terror not, as Shem Tov says, "every day, every hour, but every minute," you show up. You build an art installation tunnel simulating the hostage experience. You man the merchandise room selling BRING THEM HOME NOW sweatshirts and dog tags, you attend the Saturday night rallies where 20,000 people chant "ACH-SHAV! ACH-SHAV!" ("Now! Now!") You wonder aloud when the goddamn Red Cross is going to get medical supplies to what are believed to be 136 people still held in Gaza. You do anything to keep the hostages' names on people's lips, and you absolutely do not give in to the idea that you cannot bring them home. You stay inside the hope machine you have built, the one that whirrs loud enough to keep bad eventualities at bay, so long as you keep feeding it.

And they do. The enterprise creates a glue that keeps people at their desks. After dark, it brings them up to the roof deck, where despair is transmogrified into a noisy party, complete with homemade pizza made by local chefs. At 9 p.m., no one is making a move to leave.

"It's like 'Hotel California,'" says Gideon, who's stopped by to see his now-never-home wife.

A designer pours from a bottle of red wine and suggests that when all the hostages are freed, the forum keep going, maybe dedicate their efforts to finding the missing Ukrainian children.

This is not the goal of ad agency exec Gvili.

"Our dream from Day One is that this organization will be closed," she says. "Then I can get back to doing the new Charlotte Tilbury lipstick review. That should be my problem."

*CORRECTION: The original version of this article mischaracterized Shafrir's fundraising background.

The post Dispatch From Israel: Inside the Hope Machine appeared first on Reason.com.
Deep in New Hampshire's North Country, a handful of civic-minded Americans in a small town called Dixville Notch gathered late into the night on Monday to cast the first votes of the state's 2024 primary, continuing a decades-long tradition that has surprising roots.

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley received all six votes.

"A great start to a great day in New Hampshire," Haley said after the votes were counted. "Thank you, Dixville Notch!"

Town moderator Tom Tillotson stands at the tally board after voters cast their ballots at midnight in the presidential primary election on Jan. 23, 2024, in Dixville Notch, N.H. All six votes went for Republican presidential candidate and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. / Credit: Robert F. Bukaty / AP

The six registered voters in the unincorporated township  four Republicans and two independents, who also make up the entirety of the area's population  had to cast a ballot before the votes could be counted once midnight struck, a process that typically takes just a few minutes.

Journalists and media outlets from around the world descend on the town every four years to witness the proceedings, hoping to divine some insight that might foreshadow the statewide results that will come into focus less than 24 hours later.

"We get our 15 minutes of fame every four years," said Tom Tillotson, the town moderator, a post he's held since 1976.

The tradition represents a marquee moment for the state, kickstarting the first primary in the nation in true Granite State fashion. But the future of the practice could be in doubt as the town's population hovers near the minimum number of residents needed to keep it alive.

Where is Dixville Notch, and how did the tradition start?

Dixville Notch is in New Hampshire's Great North Woods Region, just 20 miles southeast of the Canadian border. Its remote location played a role in developing the tradition of voting at midnight on the day of the presidential primary.

But the practice of late-night voting didn't start in Dixville Notch. Another remote New Hampshire township, Hart's Location, began voting early on primary day in 1948 to accommodate the irregular schedules of rail workers, according to The Associated Press. The practice stuck. (Hart's Location was the inspiration for a thinly veiled episode of "The West Wing" in 2002 about a New Hampshire town called "Hartsfield's Landing" that voted at midnight.)

Neil Tillotson, Tom's father and his predecessor as town moderator, is credited with bringing the tradition to Dixville Notch. In 1954, Neil Tillotson moved to town and bought a local hotel, which he renamed The Balsams Grand Resort Hotel.

Eventually, he grew tired of driving 45 minutes, often in the snow, to reach the nearest polling station when it came time to vote. Tom Tillotson said his father first heard of the midnight voting process from an AP reporter. He and other residents banded together to ask the New Hampshire legislature to approve Dixville Notch as a standalone voting precinct.

"It's an unincorporated township, and at that point, it wasn't authorized to do anything," Tom Tillotson said. "It was just a piece of land."

In 1960, it was official, and the town held its first midnight vote.

"They got together, nine people, and voted at midnight," Tillotson said. "I don't think there was much press coverage that first year  but that started the tradition."

Every presidential primary since, the late-night vote tallying has continued, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dixville Notch resident Deborah Tillotson, left, enters a voting booth while her husband Tom Tillotson moderates the votes in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, on Feb. 11, 2020. / Credit: Erin Clark/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

While Dixville Notch wasn't the first town to hold a midnight vote, the hotel was largely responsible for propelling the community to fame. The Balsams had the infrastructure  space, phone lines and a dark room  for reporters and photographers to produce and send out their stories and pictures.

"That infrastructure was much better than any of the other little towns, who basically met in somebody's home, and for that reason, I guess the media that did cover it found it more convenient to cover Dixville than the other little towns," Tillotson said.

This year, the two other locales known for the midnight vote  Hart's Location and Millfield  didn't hold their votes at the late hour, due in part to aging populations that make midnight voting increasingly difficult.

The process of casting and counting votes can take a matter of minutes. Five voters are needed to serve as election workers and administer the vote. The town is allowed to count its tally before the rest of the state under a rule that says a polling place can close once every registered voter has cast a ballot.

"That's the only reason why they can report their results so early," said John Lappie, a political science professor at Plymouth State University. "If even one registered voter in the community doesn't play ball, then you can't announce the results shortly after midnight, like they do."

For Tillotson, he says the tradition is something he "grew up on." The process his father began in Dixville Notch is now broadcast live around the world every four years.

"It's different. It's not the same as everybody voting, because I do it in front of potentially millions of people," he said. "But that being said, it's an honor."

Who has won Dixville Notch in the past?

Dixville Notch residents tally their votes in the presidential primary in New Hampshire on Feb. 26, 1980. / Credit: Bettmann / Getty Images

On the Republican side, pundits and observers have taken note of Dixville Notch voters' historic tendency to side with the eventual GOP nominee, a trend that began in 1968 and persisted with startling accuracy in every presidential primary until 2012.

But the voters have also been out of step with the broader electorate, especially in years with competitive Democratic primaries. In 2020, Michael Bloomberg won Dixville Notch with three write-in votes, while Bernie Sanders and John Kasich picked up the most votes in 2016.

Those looking for signals of how the statewide electorate is feeling about the candidates would do better searching elsewhere, Lappie said.

"It's such a small sample size that if they've happened to get the candidates correct so often, that's just a coincidence," he said. "And Dixville Notch certainly isn't representative of all New Hampshire."

What is the population of Dixville Notch?

Central to the tradition is the community's size. Since it got its start in 1960, the voting bloc swelled to 37 people at its peak in the 1980s. Ahead of the election in 2020, with just four anticipated voters, a dispute arose about whether the process could move forward.

"It was unclear whether or not that was enough people to hold an election," Tillotson said.

But after one developer decided to move back to the area, Dixville Notch was allowed to proceed with five voters. This election cycle, they've added another new resident.

"We actually have six," Tillotson said. "Population boom."

What's the future of the tradition?

For New Hampshire, the midnight voting tradition is deeply rooted, and emblematic of the state's broader identity as a first-in-the-nation primary contest that turns out large portions of Granite Staters every four years.

"The thing about New Hampshire is we're a small, relatively cheap state to compete in. We're a place where retail politics actually works," Lappie said. "New Hampshire is a state that gives an underfunded underdog a place they can actually hope to compete in."

Every election cycle, Dixville Notch's residents wonder whether their midnight tradition will continue in four years, Tillotson said, as the population of registered voters hovers just above the minimum needed to administer an election.

But Tillotson explained that the biggest obstacle toward continuing the tradition would actually be if the town's population swelled. And with the redevelopment of its hotel underway, there's a chance the effort could be "too successful," bringing in dozens of new residents.

"As you grow, it gets exponentially harder to get 100% participation," Tillotson said. "The herding cats syndrome kind of sets in."

Charles Osgood, longtime host of "Sunday Morning," dies at 91

Doomsday clock remains set at 90 seconds to midnight

Economy is most important issue for Hew Hampshire primary voters, CBS News exit poll shows
The U.S. Department of Defense plans to install two more groundwater treatment systems at a former Michigan military base to control contamination from so-called forever chemicals, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkins office announced Friday.

Environmentalists say the systems will help prevent PFAS from spreading into the Clarks Marsh area and the Au Sable River near the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda on the shores of Lake Huron. The base closed in 1993 as part of a base realignment.

DOD expanding 'forever chemicals' cleanup at former Michigan base

PFAS, an abbreviation for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are compounds that dont degrade in the environment. Theyre linked to a host of health issues, including low birth weight and kidney cancer. The chemicals are found in a wide range of products, including nonstick cookware, food packaging and firefighting foam that airports use to combat fires resulting from plane crashes.

Pentagon documents show at least 385 military bases nationwide are contaminated with PFAS, mostly from firefighting foam used during training.

DOD records released in 2021 showed PFAS had been detected in groundwater around Wurtsmith at levels up to 213,000 parts per trillion. Federal regulators in March proposed limits of 4 parts per trillion in drinking water. State officials have warned people not to eat fish, venison or small game caught in and around Clarks March and parts of the Au Sable and to avoid contact with all surface water and shoreline foam in Oscoda.

The Department of Defense announced in August that it would install two groundwater treatment systems near the base. The two new systems will come in addition to those previously announced, for a total of four treatment systems.

This announcement is a milestone moment for Oscoda and its surrounding communities, Slotkin said in a news release. I will continue to urge the Pentagon to swiftly implement these measures and to address other instances of PFAS contaminations at installations in Michigan and across the country.

Tony Spaniola, co-chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network, has pushed the Pentagon to clean up PFAS contamination around Wurtsmith since he was notified in 2016 that water near his Oscoda cabin wasnt safe to drink. In a statement in Slotkins news release, he called the additional systems a landmark moment.

The effort should serve as a model for cleanup at other contaminated military installations, he said.
Earlier this month, Dodge swooped in to save the day after a Mississippi dealership sold a Challenger Demon 170 that was already ordered by an active-duty servicemember. Now that Dodge righted all the wrongs and procured the soldier a new car at no extra cost, the three dealership employees that instigated the drama and then tried to cover it up have been fired, and the happy ending is now complete.

"None of the employees involved in the situation represent our core company values, and that's why they are no longer with us. The GM, Sales Manager, and Salesperson involved were all terminated after the truth came to light," said Mac Haik Flowood Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in a recent Facebook post.

Mac Haik Automotive Group has 17 dealerships throughout Texas and Mississippi. Some of its dealers have been caught price-gouging limited edition cars before, but this is the most egregious behavior from one of its dealers.

https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmachaikflowood%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0XdNq9v9zbDoWc7fBN1Q7gjXiA5XVyhGJGs6UVFMADR5mFgityNHKFtKCZ4REqNvkl&show_text=true&width=500

So what exactly happened ? When Dodge opened its order books for its limited-edition, 1,025-horsepower Demon 170the final sendoff for the hugely popular Challengera servicemember ordered one from Mac Haik in F8 Green and agreed to pay a whopping $50,000 over sticker. However, when another customer who ordered a different Demon 170 in Triple Nickel silver showed up to take delivery after an eight-hour drive, they learned that the dealership already sold their car to someone else. To fix that mistake, Mac Haik Dodge sold that customer the soldier's F8 Green Demon 170, which had already arrived at the dealer but was awaiting pickup by one of the soldier's family members while he was deployed overseas. Somehow, the employees expected this to blow over.

After the soldier found out through a Facebook group, the story spread like wildfire and even made its way to the desk of Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis. In response, Kuniskis procured him another Demon 170, one that was reserved to reward top-selling dealers. However, the car was already built and painted Pitch Black, so Dodge had it put through the Jailbreak program , repainted in F8 Green, and built to the soldier's original spec. Then, Dodge sold it to the soldier at MSRP, to spare the $50,000 dealer markup. To sweeten the deal even further, after legendary car nut Jay Leno got word of the story, delivery was arranged at Leno's famous garage.

Jay Leno taking delivery of his own Demon 170.

The initial F8 Green Demon 170 was returned by the customer that bought it, as they didn't know they were buying someone else's car. It's now being auctioned off by the dealer and the proceeds will go to the charity of the soldier's choice. With Dodge stepping up, the Challenger community offering their support, and now the dealership beginning to make things right, it appears we've reached closure at last.

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Social media users are making claims of election interference after the judge in Donald Trumps defamation trial involving E. Jean Carroll delayed proceedings on Monday. The former president was scheduled to potentially testify in the civil trial before traveling to New Hampshire on Tuesday for the states Republican primary. One viral tweet by user johnny maga garnered more than 307,000 views in less than three hours and was even retweeted by Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik.

BREAKING: The judge in Trumps E. Jean Carroll defamation trial just delayed todays trial until tomorrow  the day of the NH primary



ELECTION INTERFERENCE!  johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) January 22, 2024

The decision to delay proceedings, however, actually stems from the reported illnesses of a juror and lawyer, and was made at the request of Trump attorney Alina Habba. As the New York Times reports, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan told lawyers for both Trump and Carroll on Monday that one of the trials nine jurors had called in sick while en route to the courthouse. Habba also reported feeling ill after recently being exposed to COVID-19, despite testing negative.

The New York Times story reported that Habba initially requested for the trial to be postponed for a single day, but changed her request to two days after being reminded by Trump of Tuesdays primary election. Judge Kaplan said that it is possible that the court reconvenes on Tuesday morning, though proceedings could be delayed further depending on the health of participants. The judge did not say whether Trump would be able to testify Wednesday, but he hasnt ruled it out. Circumstances may result in your getting what you ask for, and maybe not, he told Habba, according to Reuters.

Trump previously faced Carroll in a civil trial that resulted in a May 2023 jury ruling ordering the former president to pay $5 million in damages to Carroll for sexual abuse and defamation. The current lawsuit dates back to 2019, when Carroll sued Trump for making defamatory statements after she accused him of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s. That suit was blocked by the Department of Justice on the grounds that Trumps comments were made in his official capacity as president, delaying the case until the Biden administration allowed it to go forward. Trumps statements against Carroll were already found by a judge to be libelous in September 2023, meaning that the current trial will only determine the amount he must pay in damages.

If you have a claim you would like to see us fact check, please send us an email at factcheck@thedispatch.com. If you would like to suggest a correction to this piece or any other Dispatch article, please email corrections@thedispatch.com.

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A home thats landed on the real estate market in Palm Desert, California, for $1.2 million is turning heads on a popular social media page  and with good reason.

Its called the Ritter House (after its builder, George Ritter), and it has a distinct feature that makes it stand apart from any other sort of tract housing.

The exterior of the home exudes modernism which continues once inside, the listing on Zillow says. The coup de grace of the home is a circular lift that propels you and your dinner guests up into a glass turret that affords unbelievable views of the surrounding mountains and desert.

The lift is an entertainers dream and ups any party up a notch or six.

Of course, there are other features in and around the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house including:

Steel fireplace

Swimming pool

Patio

Covered loggia

Fans of Zillow Gone Wild, a Facebook page that highlights original homes for sale, were deeply impressed by the 2,128-square-foot home, especially the lift.

Kinda like the rotating restaurants that used to be at Hyatt hotels. Pretty cool! one person wrote in the comment section.

Thats a cool feature. Something else I didnt know I needed, someone commented.

This house is worth its price. Beautiful, another expressed.

Again another house I freaking love everything about it! one person said.

Certainly unique!! What if you need to run to the bathroom in a hurry during dinner? another asked.

Pink mansion with an old world vibe lists in Atlanta. But its newer than it seems

Why is this tiny home listed for $2M in Missouri? A secret is hidden way underground
Donald Trump shouldnt get all full of himself just yet. Nikki Haley has done a lot with a little.

Iowa second-place finisher Ron DeSantis dropped out of the presidential race over the weekend he was nowhere in the New Hampshire polling anyway  and Haley is within striking distance of Trump in that state in Tuesdays primary. Perhaps a win there could break the Republican Partys populist fever and get enough voters to be willing to turn the page from Trump.

If Haley pulls it off, it wont be because she is an amazing person, but rather, shell pull it off despite a record of meh accomplishment and very little backbone.

History with Clinton

Given that she credits Hillary Clinton with inspiring her career in politics, it is a wonder she has any Republican votes at all. I keep asking myself: Which of Clintons many sleazy escapades provided the inspiration? Was it covering up for her husbands infidelity, her shady health care task force or the mysterious loss of law firm billing records Congress was after? Maybe it was the inspirational, feminist way Clinton married her way into power.

And while Haley presents herself as a tough politician, when times have arrived for her to show a backbone, shes suffered from political osteoporosis. There was that time when nine Black people including a preacher were slaughtered in a Black church in South Carolina. At first, she didnt know what to do. Then she decided to take down the Confederate battle flag from where it flew on the South Carolina State House grounds. But, she wrote years later, The evil act (Dylann Roof) had committed had robbed the good-intentioned South Carolinians who supported the flag of this symbol of heritage and service.

That flag is no symbol of heritage and service  it is a symbol of slavery. Ill tell you where that flag belongs, Nikki. It belongs on the homes, cars and lapels of people who want to say clearly that they dont want to be part of decent society. The Confederate battle flag has no place in public, and that was obvious before Roof started pulling the trigger of a Glock. Enough Black people had already died at the hands of those who espoused the Confederate cause to make that obvious. Haley still doesnt get it. Perhaps thats why she couldnt remember the Civil War was caused by slavery.

Then came the call from Trump to leave her embattled South Carolina governorship and slide into the United Nations ambassador role. In a bare two years, she shined her tough foreign policy bona fides while representing a man who likes to cuddle with dictators.

Caucus confusion

The best news from the Iowa caucuses can be found in the compelling history of the Mike Huckabee, Rick Santorum and Ted Cruz presidencies. If youre a little confused, thats because Huckabee won the 2008 caucuses, Santorum won in 2012 and Cruz won in 2016. A handful of Iowa delegates and bragging rights going into New Hampshire didnt do them much good. No presidency followed.

In 2008, John McCain went on to win the New Hampshire primary and the nomination. Mitt Romney did the same in 2012 and Trump, ditto for 2016.

Perhaps Haley could pull if off, But looking back at her history, what did she achieve? I am not sure. Her website says, As ambassador, Haley defended U.S. interests, kept our country safe, and championed human rights. OK. She also did what she was told by a man who tried to steal an election and she never said a word about his unctuous demeanor toward the butcher in Moscow, the tyrant in Beijing and the nutball in Pyongyang.

So, yeah, I am not a fan of Nikki Haley. But she is our last, best hope for derailing the Trump train. She has my vote.

I will say one thing for her: Shes stubborn and persistent. Somehow she convinced her boyfriend and later husband to change his name from Bill to Michael. Now thats something Hillary Clinton would do. Maybe it will be enough to make her president.

David Mastio, a former editor and columnist for USA Today, is a regional editor for The Center Square and a regular Kansas City Star Opinion correspondent.
Second civil trial after E. Jean Carroll accused former U.S. President Donald Trump of raping her decades ago, in New York City

Second civil trial after E. Jean Carroll accused former U.S. President Donald Trump of raping her decades ago, in New York City

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The trial in writer E. Jean Carroll's latest civil case against Donald Trump resumes on Monday, with the prospect that the former U.S. president may for the first time testify in open court in the defamation case.

A nine-person jury is hearing evidence to determine how much Trump should pay Carroll for defaming her in June 2019, when he denied raping her in the mid-1990s in a Bergdorf Goodman department store dressing room in Manhattan.

Trump, 77, has consistently denied that anything happened, and accused Carroll, 80, of making up the incident to boost sales of her then-new memoir.

A different jury last May ordered Trump to pay Carroll $5 million over his similar October 2022 denial. Trump is appealing that verdict.

The trial is before U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan, who oversaw the earlier trial.

If he testifies, Trump will be forbidden from challenging Kaplan's rulings that he defamed and sexually abused Carroll, which the judge said the first trial established. The only issue is how much money Trump must pay Carroll, if any.

Lawyers for Carroll argued this month that Trump's recent behavior strongly suggested he might try to "sow chaos" if he testified, and might believe that doing so would help him.

Kaplan made a similar point on the trial's second day, after a lawyer for Carroll told him that jurors might have overheard Trump loudly proclaim the trial a "witch hunt" and "con job."

The judge warned Trump he might be ejected if it happened again.

"I would love it," Trump said.

"I know you would," Kaplan replied.

Trump, a Republican, has used his legal travails to promote his 2024 White House run, calling the cases part of a political vendetta and an abuse of the judicial system.

Last week, Trump shuttled between the Carroll trial and campaign events in New Hampshire, which holds its first-in-the-nation presidential primary on Tuesday. The latest polling shows Trump widening his lead in New Hampshire.

Trump has separately pleaded not guilty in four federal and state criminal cases, including two claiming he tried illegally to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.

Carroll has already testified. She said Trump's denials destroyed her reputation as a truth-telling journalist, with many now branding her a liar with her own political agenda.

Trump's legal team has accused Carroll of seeking fame and adulation by coming forward, while becoming an advocate for women. Alina Habba, one of Trump's lawyers, in a letter on Friday said that behavior conflicted with Carroll's "affirmative, non-waivable duty" to lessen the harm from the defamation.

Carroll testified that she enjoyed the "warmth" from supporters, but had not sought fame.

Joshua Matz, one of her lawyers, in a letter on Sunday called it "offensive" for Trump to persist in asserting that Carroll should be "grateful to him" for defaming her.

A Northwestern University professor testified for Carroll that it would cost $7.3 million to $12.1 million to repair Trump's damage to Carroll's reputation.

Others who may also testify include former Elle editor-in-chief Robbie Myers and former New York TV news anchor Carol Martin, a friend of Carroll's.

The case could go to the jury by mid-week.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel and Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Noeleen Walder and Leslie Adler)
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Tourists arrive at Sanya Phoenix International Airport in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province, Dec. 19, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Airports on the Chinese mainland reported increased passenger numbers in 2023, according to an industry report.



These airports handled more than 4.85 million outbound passenger flights last year, surging 95.11 percent year on year, said a report released by VariFlight, a China-based civil-aviation data service provider.

The figure also represented an increase of 1.32 percent compared with that registered in 2019, said the report.

In 2023, there were 38 airports with an annual passenger throughput of 10 million or above, up by 11 compared with 2022. Among them, 17 airports reported increased outbound passengers numbers compared with the 2019 level, the report said.
(BCN)  Downtown San Joses Pacific Motor Inn is transforming from a hotel that once used to shelter people from COVID into a massive mixed-income apartment complex.

Mayor Matt Mahan announced the final plans for the project last week alongside other city and nonprofit leaders. Once completed, the development will bring nearly 500 apartments into the downtown area, consisting of permanent supportive, affordable and market-rate homes. During development, the original 72-rooms of the hotel will act as temporary housing for homeless residents living on the streets.

California State University reaches agreement with employees, strike called off

This is the first time that supportive housing for families, affordable housing and market-rate housing will be built on one lot in California  but it wont be the last, Mahan said at a news conference. This project shows that innovation is possible when the public, private and nonprofit sectors come together to solve our homelessness crisis.

The Pacific Motor Inn, located at 455 S. Second St., was recently acquired by PMI Partners LLC, a joint venture between PATH Ventures and Westbank. The hotel, which housed homeless residents during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, has long been eyed as a site that can be transformed into housing.

In 2021, San Jose requested dollars from Californias Project Homekey  a $2.75 billion grant program to transform hotels and motels into housing. San Jose secured $19 million in state funds and is providing $25 million in city funds to support the project.

Over the next five years, the site will be redeveloped to include affordable housing, including 140 affordable apartments, 72 of which would be permanent supportive housing, owned and operated by PATH Ventures. A high-rise building on the same lot will have 360 market-rate apartments, owned and operated by Westbank.

Westbank will also develop the lot next to the Pacific Motor Inn to house approximately 500 market-rate apartments, for a total of 1,000 mixed-income homes between the two lots.

San Jose is setting an example by creating collaborative and innovative solutions that can be replicated by other communities throughout the state, Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement.

This is not the first time San Jose has used state dollars to transform hotels into housing. The 61-room Pavilion Inn, a former hotel on North Fourth Street in San Jose, is currently under construction to create affordable, supportive housing for foster youth. The newly renovated Arena Hotel was filled with residents on the first day it opened last September.

Fast food is about to get more expensive in California

San Jose also used to own SureStay  the citys first repurposed hotel project purchased with nearly $12 million of Project Homekey dollars. The site changed ownership, however, after several residents complained about deplorable conditions  dirty water pouring out of faucets, mold and holes in the ceiling, and in some instances people who died were discovered because of the smell coming from their rooms.

The city also requested state dollars to transform South San Joses Residence Inn into a 150-room apartment complex.

Anthony Bahamondes, chief housing officer for PATH Ventures, said hes proud and excited to soon open yet another affordable housing site in San Jose. PATH Ventures also operates PATH Villas on 4th Street, which just opened and offers supportive housing to 93 formerly homeless seniors, and Villas on the Park at 280 N. Second St. near St. James Park, which opened in 2020. The apartment complex is dedicated entirely to more than 80 formerly homeless individuals. Both are located in downtown San Jose.

The communities weve built are not just units, they are homes, Bahamondes said. We look forward to welcoming people home as soon as we can.

Copyright  2024 Bay City News, Inc.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
A driver was booked into custody in Mecklenburg County for a deadly hit-and-run crash in east Charlotte.

It happened just before 8 p.m. on Dec. 25 on North Sharon Amity Road near Albermarle Road. At the scene, police found 36-year-old Sheridan Eugene Channing Brown on the sidewalk. He had been hit by a vehicle and died from his injuries at the hospital, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said.

PREVIOUS: Man killed in hit-and-run accident on Christmas Day in east Charlotte

Investigators said Brown was lying in the road wearing dark clothing and was not in a crosswalk when he was hit. That truck left the scene.

On Monday, police said they were able to identify the suspect and his vehicle, a red 2008 Ford F-150.

The driver of the truck, 29-year-old Melvin Alexis Barahona Zapata, was found in Mississippi on Dec. 29 by the DeSoto County Sheriffs Department. He was arrested on a felony hit-and-run warrant out of Charlotte.

Jail records show Zapata was in custody in Charlotte last week. He was released from jail on Friday with a $5,000 secured bond.

As the investigation continues, anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

(WATCH BELOW: Concord middle school teacher, coach dies in weekend crash)




JEFFERSON PARISH, La. (WGNO)  A driver was taken into custody after a police chase that started in Mississippi led into Jefferson Parish on Monday, Jan. 22.

Early Monday morning, Louisiana State Polices Troop L was notified by the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office about a chase that started in the county.

Cardell Hayes retrial begins in New Orleans after several years of delays

When deputies tried to stop the vehicle on Interstate 59, they said they saw a large weapon on the passengers seat. The driver reportedly didnt comply when officers asked him to step out of the car.

Deputies put out spike strips on the elevated portion of U.S. 90. Once the vehicles tires were flat, it came to a stop in the 7000 block of the West Bank Expressway.

Officers worked for hours trying to talk the driver into getting out of the car. He was taken into custody around 2:15 p.m.

Its unclear at this time if the person has any active warrants.

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

(WGNO/Pat Thomas)

A state police SWAT team was on the scene, along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office bomb squad, SWAT team and K-9 unit.

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.

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A month after dropping out of the presidential race, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum has announced he wont seek a third term as governor.

Serving as governor and first lady of North Dakota has been one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences of our lives, Burgum said in a statement Monday. We are eternally grateful to the citizens for giving us this opportunity.

Burgum, who repeatedly polled in the single digits while in the race for president, recently endorsed Donald Trump. Burgum plans to join the former president onstage at a rally Monday in New Hampshire alongside two other former GOP presidential candidates who recently endorsed Trump, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Vivek Ramaswamy.

The two-term North Dakota governor dropped out of the race last month after operating on a mostly self-funded campaign, thanks to his prior career as a software entrepreneur. Burgums company, Great Plains Software, sold in 2001 to Microsoft for $1.1 billion.

Burgum made it to the debate stage twice, gaining some name recognition when he became the first candidate to offer $20 gift cards to those who contributed $1 to his campaign in an effort to hit the RNCs qualifying rules.



Burgum, 67, first ran for governor in 2016 and won in a major upset when he defeated North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem by more than 20 points. Prior to being governor, Burgum had never held a public office.

While in office, Burgum has cut taxes, rolled back transgender rights and signed a law banning almost all abortions in the state. As a presidential candidate, Burgum said he would not sign a nationwide ban on abortion.
PIERRE  The Department of Social Services told lawmakers Jan. 16 that it would not be asking the Legislature for funds related to addressing the disproportionate rate of Native American children placed in the foster care system.

Rep. Linda Duba, D-Sioux Falls, asked DSS Secretary Matt Althoff if the department would be addressing any of the issues raised in "The Lost Children," a recent investigative series published by an Argus Leader-South Dakota Searchlight partnership that found Native American children continue to disproportionately account for the number of South Dakota children in state foster care, in another DSS budget hearing, set for Feb. 12.

Althoff told Duba though he participated in interviews for the series, None of that reporting none of that has led to an appropriation request or proposal for us. So no, we do not plan to address that reporting.

Secretary of Social Services Matt Althoff speaks to Argus Leader and South Dakota Searchlight reporters about the indigenous child welfare laws during an interview on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023 at the South Dakota State Capital in Pierre, South Dakota.

The investigation found 74% of children in foster care are Native American despite Native Americans making up 13% of the states population. And while foster families receive federal and state financial aid, most kinship families  close blood-relatives of the children, typically a grandparent or an aunt or uncle  receive little to no financial aid. That can be a huge barrier for relatives making the decision to accept a kinship placement.

More: The Lost Children: An Argus Leader/South Dakota Searchlight investigation into ICWA in SD

On top of the struggles kinship families face, the 10-part series found foster families face problems with retention and they're requesting more access to keeping their foster children connected to their cultures.

Foster children are sent hours away from their homes and communities because of a lack of foster homes on the western side of the state, the investigation found.

During the DSS budget hearing, the department reported increases in businesses and nonprofits that support foster families through Gov. Krisi Noems Stronger Families Together initiative. Church involvement and the participation of wrap-around volunteers also increased.

More: Where the money goes: Foster families get paid, relatives caring for children get nothing

DSS did not speak to how many children were in foster care, how many foster homes the state currently licenses and reunification statistics during the hearing.

During fiscal year 2023, there were 1,544 children in foster care in any given month on average, according to DSS Child Protection statistics.

Additionally, there were 808 foster homes, 89 of which were Native American, as of July 2023, according to DSS. Thats a decrease from 2022, when there were 865 foster homes, 98 of which were Native American.

More: Whats being done to address overrepresentation of Native children in SD foster care system

Duba and Sen. Red Dawn Foster, D-Pine Ridge, told the Argus Leader they wanted to get more information from DSS regarding foster care and how the department was looking to address issues raised by the series to meet the needs of the children.

Foster brought a bill in 2023 that would have created a two-year taskforce to examine issues and gather data on Native American children within South Dakotas child welfare system.

We have heard consistently that the Governor supports foster families, Duba said. This does have impact, kinship is important, both culturally and for those children.

Government officials, tribal leadership, child welfare advocates and lawmakers all agreed the overrepresentation of Native children in the state's foster care system needs to be addressed. Gov. Noem said in September the state can't solve the problem alone with "a program and a payment.

"You've got to have prevention and intervention and training and services for when these families have a crisis," Noem said. "By only talking about these kids when they're already in the foster care system, that will do nothing to guarantee that we're not sitting here in 10 years again."

More: Whats being done to address overrepresentation of Native children in SD foster care system

The state has taken steps to address behavioral health and addiction problems families may face as a way to prevent the removal of children.

Additionally, tribes are licensing foster families and are creating foster villages, which are meant to keep Native children in their communities and cared for by staff who are licensed foster parents.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota DSS will not be adding funding for kinship care in 2024
You are here: Business

This photo taken on Sept. 17, 2023 shows a view of the automated container terminal of Shanghai Yangshan Deep Water Port in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

Shanghai's imports and exports climbed to 4.21 trillion yuan (about 591.57 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up 0.7 percent year on year, according to Shanghai Customs.



Last year, Shanghai's exports rose 1.6 percent year on year to 1.74 trillion yuan, and its imports increased 0.1 percent to 2.47 trillion yuan, data shows.

Shanghai's trade with the European Union amounted to 844.57 billion yuan, up 2.7 percent year on year and accounting for 20.1 percent of the city's total foreign trade volume during the period.

In 2023, Shanghai exported 167.79 billion yuan of emerging products such as electric passenger cars, lithium-ion batteries and solar cells, a year-on-year increase of 42.2 percent and accounting for 9.7 percent of the city's total export value.

Shanghai also imported 561.83 billion yuan of consumer goods last year, up 7.3 percent year on year and amounting to 22.7 percent of the city's total import value.
Under the cover of darkness, two commercial boat captains launched their boats in a Florida river to pick up clients for a day of duck hunting.

Brice Williamson and Clay Sorrell, hunting and fishing guides and captains with Williamson Outfitters in Eastpoint, were on the water by 6 a.m. on Jan. 20 and headed toward a boat ramp to pick up the duck hunting group, the company said in a Jan. 20 Facebook post and Jan. 21 video.

The waters were rough on the Apalachicola River, they told WCTV, and the temperature was near freezing, about 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

Suddenly, they heard someone calling out for help.

Please help my two friends, they just flipped their boat over in the river channel, the captains said he yelled.

Jumping into action, the two boats rushed in the direction of the capsized boat.

Its a scary thing, something that a duck hunter always talks about. What if this happens? Cole Puckhaber, also on the boat, said in the video. Fortunately, we were the last boats to put in, and if we werent the last boats to put in, I dont know what would have happened to those guys if we wouldnt have been there. It was definitely scary.

When they arrived, they saw a man using his life jacket and floating in the freezing water.

The first boat, led by Sorrell, quickly reached the man in the lifejacket and pulled him into the boat, Williamson said in the video.

In the other boat, Wiliamson began searching for the other boater, invisible against the dark water.

Then they spotted him tucked between the pylons of a nearby bridge.

He had grabbed onto a decoy bag, still had his waders on, Sorrell said. Luckily, he was smart enough to grab the decoy bag and stay calm and pin himself between two pylons.

With both men safely onboard, the boats headed back to the ramp and rushed to get the men warm.

They dropped their wet clothing and sat in a heated truck, uninjured but in shock, the company said.

The way the whole thing was executed, you know you run stuff like that through your head all the time, like what if this were to happen with one of my buddies riding on the boat with me or my client thats riding on the boat with me, or my dad or anybody, Puckhaber said. And how well it went this morning? I mean I would say its a 100% success.

The crews said they were able to anchor and recover the guns and gear from the capsized vessel, then tow the boat back to the boat ramp to be recovered.

Nobody else was at the ramp to help them besides us, but Im very thankful that we were there and God had his timing and that timed up pretty good, Williamson told WCTV.

The Apalachicola River meets the Gulf of Mexico at Apalachicola Bay, about 75 miles southwest of Tallahassee.

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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 Chicago 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 of felony murder, 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 2008, 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.

_____
SAN DIEGO  An elderly passenger suffered serious injures after a car ran a red light in Rancho Bernardo Sunday afternoon, authorities say.

According to the San Diego Police Department, a 24-year-old man driving a Honda is accused of running a red light Sunday at 1:11 p.m. at the intersection of Camino Del Norte and Paseo Montanoso in the Rancho Bernardo neighborhood of San Diego.

19-year-old dies in fiery crash in San Pasqual; two injured

SDPD reports the Honda hit a Toyota broadside as it was turning left onto Paseo Montanoso. The 87-year-old passenger in the Toyota was seriously injured with a fractured pelvis, rib fractures and a fractured sternum.

The crash happened around the same time as a fatal accident where a 19-year-old was killed in San Pasqual.

Anyone with information about the accident is asked to call SDPD or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Months after losing a slew of advertisers after he publicly endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory, X owner Elon Musk continued his I am not an antisemite tour on Monday with a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp memorial.

During his private tour of the memorial, Musk laid a wreath and participated in a remembrance ceremony. It hits you much more in the heart when you see it in person  it will take a few days to sink in, frankly, Musk told right-wing Jewish podcaster Ben Shapiro during an interview following the visit, both of which were hosted by the European Jewish Association (EJA).

Throughout the discussion, Shapiro lobbed softball after softball at Musk, avoiding directly questioning him on statements hes made attacking prominent Jewish groups and promoting an explicitly antisemitic conspiracy theory. No mention was made of the fact that in August, the Auschwitz Memorial Museum directly criticized Musk for failing to proactively remove antisemitic content from X, formerly Twitter, or the slew of reports that have found a marked spike in antisemitic content since his takeover of the platform. Instead, Shapiro allowed Musk to wax at length about his many Jewish friends and frame criticism of him as attempts by the legacy media to cancel him and his social media company.

The conversation opened with a video produced by the EJA imagining what the response to the Holocaust, in which the Nazi regime killed over six million Jews throughout Europe, would have been like if social media  and X  had existed at the time.

If we had had X in 1939, how many lives could have been saved? the video asked.

Musk responded that had there been social media [the Holocaust] would have been impossible to hide, if there had been freedom of speech as well. He went on to reference Adolf Hitler and the Nazi efforts to censor coverage of their atrocities in the press, with no mention of his own efforts to curtail pro-Palestinian content on X.

Musks comments that social media could have prevented, or at least mitigated, genocide ring hollow without the necessary acknowledgment of the ongoing humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The pair did not seriously discuss allegations that Israels response to Hamas deadly Oct. 7 attack has amounted to a genocidal campaign of annihilation against Palestinians. Musk instead simply brushed off the more than 25,000 Palestinian deaths since the start of the war as an inevitable reality that some innocent people will die, theres no way around it.

Musk and Shaprio reframed support for Palestinians human and political rights as being inherently pro-terrorist, with Musk expressing his shock at what he called pro-Hamas rallies in major cities in the West and on college campuses. At one point, Musk said that while things like diversity, equity, inclusion that are promoted by liberal universities and institutions sound nice, they are really discrimination on the bases of race, sex, and sexual orientation  and thus I fundamentally think its antisemitic.

In November, major advertisers fled X after a report by progressive watchdog Media Matters found evidence that ads were appearing next to pro-Nazi content. Musk gave advertisers even more reason to leave the same week when he responded You have said the actual truth, to a post claiming that Jews promote dialectical hatred against whites. Earlier in 2023, Musk directly engaged with efforts by white nationalist and neo-Nazis  many of whom Musk reinstated to X following his purchase of the platform  to have the Anti-Defamation League banned from the website.

ADL has tried very hard to strangle X/Twitter, Musk wrote in response to a tweet from Keith Woods, a self-described ethnonationalist and antisemite.

Following the advertiser exodus, Musk embarked on the public relations tour that brought him to Auschwitz on Monday. In late November, he met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and toured a kibbutz devastated in Hamas Oct. 7 attack. The heavily publicized visit caused outrage even among the Israeli press. Blatant antisemite [and] publisher of antisemitism Elon Musk should be persona non grata in Israel, Esther Solomon, the editor-in-chief at Haaretz, wrote on X. Instead, Netanyahu  plumbing new depths of amoral sycophancy  gifts him a PR visit to the kibbutzim devastated by Hamas. Profane, venal, bilious, both of them.

Amy Spiro, a writer at The Jerusalem Post, added in her own post that it was Hard to stomach welcoming someone who just days ago endorsed a virulently antisemitic trope, has dabbled for years in antisemitism and has turned this platform into a cesspool of hate. Its quite frankly gross.

Musk closed the interview at the Holocaust memorial on Monday by saying that he certainly hoped there would never be another genocide like the Holocaust, calling it an extremely unlikely event for the West. Despite Musk being seated in front of a screen reading Never Again, it didnt seem that the ongoing slaughter in Palestine was a concern to anyone in the room.

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Tesla and SpaceXs CEO Elon Musk, center, walks during his visit to the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi German death camp in Oswiecim, Poland, on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. The private visit was apparently in response to calls from some Jewish religious leaders for Musk to see with his own eyes the most symbolic site of the horrors of the Holocaust. | Andrzej Rudiak, Associated Press

Tech titan Elon Musk visited the site of a former concentration camp Monday as he continues to fight accusations of antisemitism.

Musk, who runs SpaceX and Tesla and owns X, the site formerly known as Twitter, has recently lost key advertisers on the social media site due to his own statements about the Jewish community and his apparent tolerance of antisemitic comments from others, according to The Associated Press.

Several big brands, including Disney and IBM, stopped advertising on (X) last year after liberal advocacy group Media Matters said that their ads were appearing alongside pro-Nazi content and white nationalist posts. X has since sued Media Matters, the article said.

Musk has repeatedly pushed back against claims that hes antisemitic or that he allows antisemitism to flourish on X, as the Deseret News previously reported.

In September, he tweeted that hes against antisemitism but in favor of free speech.

Later that same month, Musk met with Benjamin Netanyahu during the Israeli prime ministers visit to California.

Related

Visiting Auschwitz

On Monday, Musk toured the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi death camp in Oswiecim, Poland, with podcaster Ben Shapiro before both men attended a conference on antisemitism in Krakow, per The Associated Press.

The former concentration camp, which is better known as Auschwitz, was the principal camp used by Nazi Germany in its mission to imprison and kill Jews, according to UNESCO, which now considers Auschwitz-Birkenau to be a world heritage site.

According to historical investigations, 1.5 million people, among them a great number of Jews, were systematically starved, tortured and murdered in this camp, UNESCO reports.

Today, most of the remains of the Auschwitz camp are open to visitors. Among other things, visitors can see the bunks where prisoners slept and the bathrooms they used, the Auschwitz-Birkenau website explains.

Musk and Shapiro took part in a private tour and had the opportunity to meet with a Holocaust survivor, according to The Associated Press.

On X, Musk reposted a picture of himself on the tour, as well as a video clip from his appearance at the antisemitism conference.
Authorities in Nanyang, a city in Central China's Henan province, have been told to promptly investigate the cause and hold accountable the relevant parties following a fire that occurred in a local primary school, resulting in the deaths of 13 students.

The fire broke out in a dormitory of Yingcai School in Nanyang's Fangcheng county and was extinguished at 11:38 pm on Friday.

The individual responsible for the private boarding school has been detained for investigation.

A student who was injured in the blaze was receiving treatment at a local hospital and reportedly was in stable condition.

A search on Qichacha, a platform offering information on companies in the country, found that the school was established in June 2012, with a registered capital of 1.07 million yuan ($150,000), and its business scope includes preschool education and elementary education.

A work team was sent to the scene during the night by the Ministry of Emergency Management to guide rescue and follow-up work. In addition, a citywide safety teleconference was held by the local government on Saturday, and a comprehensive safety inspection and rectification campaign was launched.

At the teleconference, local authorities were urged to find the cause of the fire as soon as possible and hold accountable any responsible parties.

Efforts were also urged to treat the injured comprehensively and handle the aftermath of the fire, including providing legal compensation to those affected, providing emotional reassurance and assisting the families of those who died or were injured.

On Sunday, the China Association for Non-Government Education issued a safety management advisory to the entire industry, emphasizing the need for proactive prevention, comprehensive governance, system improvement and the establishment of mechanisms to continuously strengthen institutional safeguards.

The advisory requires schools and institutions to have well-equipped safety personnel and to ensure funding support. It emphasizes safety awareness campaigns, enhancement of prevention skills, the development of emergency response plans, and the use of various safety drills to continually raise awareness of safety precautions and self-protection capabilities among teachers and students.

Additionally, it advocates transparency by publicly disclosing information, including schools' safety management systems, responsible personnel and emergency plans, to parents and society, fostering multidimensional supervision and a collaborative campus safety management system.

After the accident, authorities in several cities, including Luohe in Henan, Yichun in Jiangxi province, Panjin in Liaoning province, and Xi'an in Shaanxi province, promptly issued notices to conduct campus fire safety inspections and rectification work.

Luohe demanded an immediate comprehensive inspection and decisive rectification measures, focusing on key areas and places prone to accidents, particularly in places with high concentrations of people, such as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, shopping malls, hotels and staff dormitories.

Yichun asked its schools to ensure that all fire equipment operates normally and to promptly remove any obstacles to firefighting and evacuation, including anti-theft nets and decorations. Staff members on duty, dormitory supervisors and security personnel are required to strictly implement night patrols, ensuring the safety of students living on campus.

These cities also required focused rectification of prominent issues and hazards, including unauthorized use of fire, electricity and gas; irregularities in electrical wiring; disorderly or damaged installations; obstruction of evacuation routes; nonstandard configurations of firefighting equipment and facilities; and insufficient awareness of fire safety among employees and students.
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, stands at a press event on the site of the Tesla Gigafactory. Musk, the owner of social media platform X and luxury electric carmaker Tesla who at times has been accused of backing anti-Semitic posts, visited the memorial site of the former German concentration camp Auschwitz on Monday. Patrick Pleul/dpa Pool/dpa

Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X and luxury electric carmaker Tesla who at times has been accused of backing anti-Semitic posts, visited the memorial site of the former German concentration camp Auschwitz on Monday.

Photos showed him on the grounds of the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp in then-occupied Poland. The notorious concentration camp is where the Nazis exterminated about 1.1 million people of whom 1 million were Jews, according to the Auschwitz-Birkenau state museum.

Musk wanted to discuss online anti-Semitism in Krakow as part of a conference organized by the European Jewish Association (EJA). His visit to Auschwitz was originally planned for Tuesday.

As the owner of X, Musk was criticized last November for describing a post containing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory as the "actual truth" in a post on the platform.

He later spoke of a misunderstanding and apologized. Hate speech researchers also accused X of not taking sufficient action against anti-Semitic posts. Major advertisers such as Apple and Disney subsequently stopped their ads on the service.
Energy drinks have already been linked to anxiety, stress, depression and suicidal thoughts in children. Now, new research on students has shown that exhaustion, poor sleep and energy drinks come hand in hand. Sebastian Gollnow/dpa

Energy drinks are linked to insomnia and poor sleep in young people, with just a few cans a week having an effect, research suggests.

Experts found that young people aged 18 to 35 who consumed the drinks every day slept around half an hour less than those drinking them occasionally or not at all.

Among men, having two or three drinks a week meant they were 35% more likely to have a bedtime after midnight, 52% more likely to sleep less than six hours, and 60% more likely to wake in the night than those who did not or rarely drank them.

For women, they were 20% more likely to have a bedtime after midnight, 58% more likely to sleep less than six hours, and 24% more likely to wake in the night.

Energy drinks often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar and are marketed as providing people with an energy boost. However their links to anxiety, stress and suicidal thoughts have prompted calls for a ban on the sale of energy drinks to young people and children.

The latest study, published in BMJ Open and based on 53,266 Norwegian students, found the drinks are popular with young people.

Students in the study were asked how often they drank energy drinks, with responses including daily, weekly (including once a week, two to three times a week, and four to six times a week), monthly (one to three times), and seldom/never.

They were also asked detailed questions about their sleep patterns, such as when they went to bed and got up, how long it took them to fall asleep and if they woke in the night.

Insomnia was defined as problems falling and staying asleep and waking early on at least three nights a week, plus daytime sleepiness and tiredness for at least three days of the week, for at least three months.

Overall, half of women in the study said they never consumed energy drinks, while the figure was 40% in men.

Of those who did drink them, 5.5% of women said they drank them four to six times a week and just over 3% drank them every day.

In men, 8% drank them four to six times a week and 5% drank them every day.

The results showed that people consuming the drinks daily had more issues overall with waking after falling asleep and took longer to fall asleep, and slept less overall than those not drinking them.

The study also found that the more people drank, the less sleep they had.

For women drinking energy drinks daily, 51% reported suffering insomnia, compared with 33% of women who drank the drinks occasionally or never.

Meanwhile, in men, 37% of daily drinkers suffered insomnia, compared with 22% of those who rarely or never had the drinks.

Men who were daily drinkers were more than twice as likely to say they slept fewer than six hours a night as infrequent drinkers, while women were 87% more likely to do so.

But even students having one to three energy drinks a month had bigger sleep issues than those who never touched them, the study suggested.

The researchers warned they had not established that energy drinks cause these effects and acknowledged that reverse causality  whereby energy drink consumption might be a consequence of poor sleep rather than the other way round  might explain the link.

However, they said: The results from the current study show that there is a robust association between the frequency of (energy drink) consumption and the different sleep parameters.

The experts were drawn from across Norway, including the Universities of Bergen and Oslo.

Energy drinks have already been linked to anxiety, stress, depression and suicidal thoughts in children. Now, new research on students has shown that exhaustion, poor sleep and energy drinks come hand in hand. Christin Klose/dpa
Russian attacks on Jan. 22 started a fire and destroyed equipment at an energy facility belonging to the local operator Kharkivoblenergo in Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine's Energy Ministry reported.

Over the winter of 2022-2023, Russia engaged in a persistent campaign to target Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing large-scale outages and damage to the grid. Russia has continued a similar strategy this winter, escalating its attacks on energy facilities as the weather grew colder in 2023.

Vadym Skibitskyi, a representative of Ukraine's Military Intelligence (HUR), said on Jan. 15 that Russia's winter campaign of missile strikes is predominantly targeting Ukraine's military-industrial complex, marking a change from the previous winter's attacks on energy infrastructure.

Despite the apparent shift in strategy, Russian attacks still regularly damage or destroy equipment and facilities associated with Ukraine's energy production and transmission.

The Energy Ministry did not specify the extent of the damage caused by the attacks and ensuing fire, nor did it say the type of equipment that was destroyed. No casualties were reported from the attack.

The ministry said that four electricity networks were still being examined as a result of the attack.

A total of 16,000 metering points were without power throughout the oblast.

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.
Chad Cobb, who is serving a life sentence for her murder, admitted Tuesday that he used a taser on Ashley Biggs in June 2012.

He admitted to getting into a fight with Biggs that he described as a train wreck.

He didnt admit, though, to putting a zip tie around Biggs neck.

How did one end up around her neck? attorney Jeff Laybourne asked Cobb Tuesday during his testimony in his former wife Erica Stefanko's murder trial of Biggs.

That would be the defendant, Cobb said, referring to Stefanko.

Cobb, who took a plea deal to avoid death penalty but is now trying to vacate his plea, again attempted during hours of testimony in Stefankos second trial in Summit County Common Pleas Court to emphasize the blame Stefanko has in Biggs slaying.

Is it your testimony that you are not responsible for the death of Ashley Biggs? Assistant Summit County Prosecutor Felicia Easter asked Cobb.

I never said that because I was there, Cobb said.

Do you believe someone else was responsible? Easter asked.

The death resides on both Erica and myself, he said.

Biggs, 25, of Jackson Township, died from being beaten and strangled after she was lured to the back of a New Franklin business by a bogus pizza delivery call that prosecutors say Stefanko made.

Erica Stefanko is escorted into Judge Jennifer Towell's courtroom on Monday for the start of her retrial in Summit County Common Pleas Court. Stefanko is accused of making the bogus pizza delivery call that lured Ashley Biggs to where she was killed in 2012.

Stefanko's retrial for the so-called "pizza delivery murder" finally got underway Monday after delays caused by the first jury pool being dismissed and prosecutors who were ill.

Stefanko, 41, of Rittman, was convicted of aggravated murder in November 2020 but won a new trial when an appellate court ruled that Cobb, Stefanko's now-ex-husband, shouldnt have been permitted to testify via video.

Her first trial in Summit County Common Pleas Court happened at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when few trials were proceeding and safety protocols were in place.

Stefanko, who is being held at the Summit County Jail, will be retried only on the charges she was convicted of  aggravated murder and murder.

About the case: Rittman woman to be retried in pizza delivery murder case in Summit County court

Stefankos trial, which is again being livestreamed on Court TV, is expected to last until early next week.

Erica Stefanko is arrested years after Ashley Biggs slaying

Stefanko was arrested in 2019 for the June 2012 slaying of Biggs, the ex-girlfriend of Cobb, who Stefanko was married to at the time of the murder.

At the time of the slaying, Cobb and Biggs, the mother of Cobbs then-7-year-old daughter, were in a heated custody dispute.

Cobb, now 41, pleaded guilty to aggravated murder and several other charges in February 2013 in an agreement that prevented him from facing the death penalty. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Years later, detectives said new information had come to light about Stefankos involvement, including placing the fake pizza order that drew Biggs, 25, a Dominos delivery driver, to where she was killed.

Stefanko appealed based on several errors she claimed were made during her trial, including allegations that the COVID-19 procedures used by the trial court violated her right to a fair trial and due process and to confront witnesses as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.

Chad Cobb, who is serving a life sentence for Ashley Biggs' murder, testifies via video from prison during Stefanko's first trial in November 2020.

The 9th District Court of Appeals overturned Stefankos conviction in July 2022, zeroing in on Chad Cobbs remote testimony.

Prosecutor highlights secret recording in which Stefanko discussed slaying

Easter said in her opening statement that both Stefanko and Cobb were responsible for Biggs' slaying.

"They were together through this whole thing," Easter said. "The planning. The execution. The coverup."

Assistant Summit County Prosecutor Felicia Easter gives opening statements in the trial of Erica Stefanko on Monday in Akron. Stefanko is accused of making the bogus pizza delivery call that lured Ashley Biggs to where she was killed.

Easter reminded jurors during her opening statement about the concept of complicity, which means those acting together are equally guilty. She used the example of a getaway driver who waits while someone robs a bank.

Easter said Stefanko discussed Biggs' slaying in a secret recording that was made by Cindee Cobb, Chad's mother, that will be played for the jury. She highlighted a few of Stefanko's statements.

"I did exactly what he told me to do," Stefanko said, referring to Chad Cobb.

"If everything was told exactly as it happened, then we'd both be in prison right now," Stefanko said at another point.

Easter said there is no DNA that ties Stefanko to the scene where Biggs was killed. Still, she said, Stefanko helped Cobb every step of the way before, during and after the slaying.

"She was in it for a penny, in it for a pound," Easter said.

Defense attorney says Cobb is appealing, hopes to get out of prison

Laybourne, one of Stefanko's attorneys, though, told jurors they will hear only "a penny's worth of evidence" against Stefanko.

Defense attorney Jeff Laybourne talks with Erica Stefanko before the start of trial on Monday in Akron. Stefanko is accused of making the bogus pizza delivery call that lured Ashley Biggs to where she was killed.

Laybourne said there is overwhelming evidence about Cobb's guilt in Biggs' murder.

"He had intent and purpose," Laybourne said. "He set it up. He had a volatile relationship with Ashley Biggs that included protection orders. He had the motive to do this  not Erica."

Laybourne, who is representing Stefanko with attorney Angie Kille, said Cobb asked to withdraw his plea, with this request denied. He said Cobb appealed this ruling and Cobb and his family believe he will get out of prison.

Erica Stefanko looks on during the first day of testimony in her retrial Monday in Summit County Common Pleas Court in Akron. Stefanko is accused of making the bogus pizza delivery call that lured Ashley Biggs to where she was killed.

"The Cobbs have not stopped fighting for Chad," he said.

To prove complicity, Laybourne said prosecutors must prove that Stefanko had the same criminal intent as Cobb and they "shared the same purpose."

Victim's girlfriend details tension over custody dispute

Brittany Dunson, who was dating Biggs when she was killed, was the first to testify and detailed the heated custody dispute that was happening before the slaying.

Dunson said Biggs, who hadn't seen her daughter in at least two years, was awarded temporary custody of the 6-year-old girl in October 2011. She said this was a shock to her and Biggs, as well as to Cobb and Stefanko.

Dunson said a bitter custody battle followed this that included Cobb calling the police multiple times to go to Dunson and Biggs' apartment for welfare checks on the girl  none, she said, that resulted in any action  and Stefanko following them home after they picked up the girl from school.

At the time of Biggs' slaying, Dunson said Cobb and Stefanko had visitation rights with the girl. She was with Cobb and Stefanko on the night when Biggs was killed.

Dunson said she got a call from the manager at Domino's that night, asking if she'd heard from Biggs. She said she was automatically worried because of the tension over the custody dispute.

Dunson, who cried during her testimony, said Biggs' mother called her hours after the slaying and said, "He got her," referring to Cobb.

Chad Cobb says he took plea deal because of concern for his children

Cobb, dressed in an orange jail jumpsuit and shackled, was the second person to take the stand. He was more clean shaven than when he testified in Stefanko's first trial and asked not to be photographed or videotaped.

Ive been on TV enough, he said. Im not a fan of it.

Cobb said he is appealing his case but that he hasn't been offered anything in exchange for his testimony. He said he pleaded guilty  and didn't originally talk to police about the role Stefanko played in Biggs' death because he was concerned about what would happen to his kids if he didn't.

My children have been the only basis for me taking the plea, he said.

Cobb said he had a child with Biggs, who was the subject of the custody dispute, and two children with Stefanko. He said Stefanko also had a son who was about the same age as he and Biggs daughter.

Cobb said he learned after he had pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life without parole that Stefanko had been having an affair with Mike Stefanko, who was his best friend and had worked for his cable company. He also found out that she was pregnant with Mikes child.

Cobb said he and Erica divorced in 2014, and she then married Mike Stefanko.

Cobb, with the help of his family members, said he has been trying to vacate his guilty plea and get a trial.

Laybourne asked Cobb if he thinks he would be acquitted if his case went to trial.

Not acquitted of everything, Cobb said. I have responsibility in this also.

Cobb said Stefanko made the phone call that lured Biggs to the parking lot of a closed New Franklin business where he was waiting. He said Biggs threw her phone at him and he used his taser on her. He said the taser didnt work and the two of them got into a fight that he described as a train wreck.

Cobb said Biggs was bloody and bruised and in very bad shape after their fight. He said he wasnt the one, though, who put zip ties around Biggs neck, hands and feet. He said he put Biggs body in the back of her car and drove her car  with Stefanko following him  to a Wayne County cornfield where he left it.

Did you have a plan to kill Ashley? Laybourne asked Cobb.

The only plan I had was to go to Disney World, Cobb said, referring to a family trip that was planned for the weekend after Biggs slaying.

Stephanie Warsmith can be reached at swarsmith@thebeaconjournal.com, 330-996-3705 and on Twitter: @swarsmithabj.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Erica Stefanko's retrial begins in pizza delivery murder case
On the eve of his parents' trials kicking off, Oxford school shooter Ethan Crumbley has dropped a bombshell: He is appealing his life-without-parole sentence  and his new lawyers plan to fight any efforts to get him to testify in his parents' historic case, according to new court documents.

The State Appellate Defender's Office disclosed these developments in a Monday court filing, one day before jury selection is set to begin for Jennifer Crumbley, who, like her husband, James, is charged with involuntary manslaughter in the 2021 Oxford High School shooting in which their son killed four students and injured seven other people.

The son last month was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The appellate defender's office announced Monday that it has been assigned to represent the shooter in his appeal, but that it has not yet spoken to him. This information was detailed in a letter to the judge overseeing the parents' case.

Ethan Crumbley stands and addresses the court before being sentenced, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Pontiac, Mich. Crumbly was sentenced to life in prison for killing four students, wounding more, and terrorizing Michigan's Oxford High School in 2021. A judge Friday rejected pleas for a shorter sentence and ensured that Crumbley, 17, will not get an opportunity for parole.

The letter also noted that Ethan Crumbley's name appears on a witness list for at least one of the parents' trials  the couple are being tried separately, with the father's trial now set for March 5  though he will be advised against taking the stand in the unprecedented case.

Attorneys will seek to block Ethan Crumbley's medical records

"Given Ethan Crumbley's ongoing appeal and the substantial overlap in the subject matter in these three cases, we will advise Ethan to invoke his right to remain silent, should he be called to testify in either pending trial," appellate defenders Alison Swain and Jacqueline Ouvry wrote in the letter to Oakland County Circuit Judge Cheryl Matthews.

Crumbley's new lawyers also advised the judge that they plan to fight any efforts by any lawyer to use confidential information about Crumbley as evidence in the parents' trials, such as any interviews he had with forensic experts, or documents or reports involving any medical treatment. The defense argues this information is privileged and confidential, and should not be allowed at the parents' trial.

Crumbley's mental health is expected to play a key role in his parents' case as the prosecution has long argued that James and Jennifer Crumbley ignored a troubled son who was depressed, lonely and hallucinating. And instead of getting him help, they say, they bought him a gun  which he used in the shooting on Nov. 30, 2021.

James and Jennifer Crumbley, who are the first parents in America charged in a mass school shooting, have long maintained that they had no way of knowing their son would shoot up his school, and that the gun at issue was safely stored.

Jennifer and James Crumbley, parents of Ethan Crumbley who is accused of the deadly school shooting at Oxford High School in late November, break down into tears in the courtroom during a hearing on Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022.

The shooter pleaded guilty to all his crimes last year and was sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison in December. At his sentencing, he did not ask for leniency, but rather told the judge to give the victims the justice they want. Oakland County Circuit Judge Kwame Rowe concluded that Crumbley should never be free again given his crimes when he handed down the life sentence on Dec. 8.

Potential impact of killer not testifying in parents' trials

Six days later, a notice of appeal was filed in Crumbley's case with the court.

Here is how Ethan Crumbley could affect his parents' cases if his new lawyers have their way:

The defense would not be able to question the shooter about whether his parents influenced his decision to shoot up his school or played a role in the shooting  a topic he addressed at his sentencing hearing last month, when he told the judge:

"We are all here because of me today ... because of what I chose to do. ... My parents did not know what I planned to do, they are not at fault."

The parents' lawyers believe Ethan Crumbley's medical records will also help bolster that claim, along with interviews he had with psychiatrists and other medical experts, though his new lawyers are trying to block them from using that information at trial.

The records at issue were used in the shooter's summer Miller hearing, the proceeding after which the judge concluded the teen was eligible for a sentence of life without parole.

In November, lawyers for the parents successfully sought permission to review those mental health records, which, they maintain, show contradictions in the shooter's story. For example, the mom's lawyer said she discovered that the shooter told a psychiatrist that he never asked his parents for therapy and admitted that he lied when he texted a friend about asking for such help.

"This information is clearly critical to the Crumbleys, who have been criticized repeatedly by the prosecution for not listening to the shooters request for therapy," the mom's attorney Shannon Smith has argued in past court documents.

But the shooter's new lawyers maintain that information should remain confidential, arguing there are "no exceptions" under the law that warrant using such personal and "privileged" information "in someone else's trial."

Contact Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Ethan Crumbley to appeal life sentence in Oxford H.S. shooting
Josep Borrell (R), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry during the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. -/European Council/dpa

The European Union has reached a political agreement in principle to launch a military operation to secure merchant shipping in the Red Sea, its top diplomat announced on Monday.

The EU has no plans to participate in the current US attacks against the positions of the militant Islamist Houthi movement in Yemen, it said. The United States together with the United Kingdom and others have attacked Houthi targets in the region.

The EU mission would involve deploying European warships and airborne early warning systems to protect cargo ships in the area.

EU foreign ministers agreed to the plan after a meeting in Brussels, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell said.

According to diplomats, the mission would ideally start next month and put an end to the attacks by the Houthis.

The Iranian-backed militant group has said it is attacking ships related to Israel, but in fact many non-Israeli ships have been targets. The Houthis have said they are firing on ships to force an Israeli ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel attacked Gaza after the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas and others invaded Israel in October 7, killing about 1,200 and taking around 250 hostage.

On Monday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for the preparations for the planned EU military mission to be finalized quickly. The indiscriminate attacks by the Houthis were also attacking "one of the central arteries of free shipping and therefore also of world trade."

The German economy is heavily dependent on exports.

In view of the dangers, major shipping companies are increasingly avoiding the shortest sea route between Asia and Europe through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. This is now having a considerable impact on the global economy.

Originally, the EU had planned to simply extend the mandate of the existing Atalanta anti-piracy operation in the Indian Ocean for the mission in the Red Sea.

The plan failed due to opposition from Spain, which is currently the lead nation in Operation Atalanta. Left-wingers in Spain in particular sympathize with the desire to persuade Israel to halt its military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Also discussed at the meeting was an EU plan for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Borrell arguing that this should be the bloc's priority.

"I think that we have to stop talking about the peace, the peace process, and start talking more concretely about the two-state solution process," he said on arrival in Brussels.

According to a senior diplomat from the EU's External Action Service, the bloc's diplomatic service, this proposal would be coupled simultaneously with security guarantees for Israel.

A political framework for the Palestinian people could also influence the current war between Hamas and Israel. The aim must be for Israel to be able to have completely normal relations with the Arab countries, the diplomat said.

The EU's foreign policy chief proposed a peace conference initiative, which could include top-level talks without the Palestinians and Israelis as a first step.

But several participants at the ministerial meeting deemed the Borrell proposal unpromising.

"There is no value in us organizing peace conferences again if no one is there and or everyone and then Israel feels they are on trial," said Luxembourg's Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel.

According to EU diplomats, a more restrained approach could involve first pressing for further ceasefires.

Germany's Baerbock gave her backing to the two-state solution, stressing that "there can only be peace if there is peace for all people in the region."

"Israel can only live in security if Palestinians can live in dignity in security. And Palestinians can only live in dignity, security and freedom if Israel lives in security," she said.

Doubts surround the viability of the long-sought two-state solution however after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again forcefully rejected the notion of a sovereign Palestinian state.

"I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of the Jordan [River] - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state," Netanyahu said at the weekend.

Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin criticized the Israeli leader's comments as "unacceptable and do not contribute in any way to the prospects of peace."

Jordanian Foreign Minister Amyan al-Safadi said Israel's rejection of a two-state policy was "dooming the future of the region to more conflict and more war."

He was invited to the talks in Brussels, as were his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the secretary general of the Arab League. There were also separate rounds of talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and the foreign minister of the Palestinian Authority, Riyad al-Maliki.

However, it is questionable whether the increasing pressure on Israel will have any effect. Israel's Katz initially did not comment publicly on the issue on Monday.

A majority of Israelis are against a two-state solution. Many fear this could result in rockets being fired from the West Bank at Israeli towns and villages.

Furthermore, some argue that an independent state after the unprecedented massacre on October 7 would be tantamount to a reward.

Hamas is also opposed to a two-state solution. It seeks the destruction of Israel and a Palestinian state in its place.

Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, speaks to the media before the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. -/European Council/dpa

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (L) and French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne (2nd L) attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting. Francois Lenoir/European Council/dpa

A general view of the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting. Francois Lenoir/European Council/dpa

Tribal supporters of Yemen's Houthis hold up their weapons during armed a protest against the US government designating Houthis as a terror group in Sanaa. Osamah Yahya/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Tribal supporters of Yemen's Houthis hold up their weapons during armed a protest against the US government designating Houthis as a terror group in Sanaa. Osamah Yahya/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Work on a new plan to unlock tens of billions of euros, which will help increase the volume of military aid for Ukraine, will commence in the European Union this week.

Source: European Pravda, citing The Wall Street Journal

Quote: "Given the dependence of Ukraine on external support, the choices made by the EU member states and partners in the coming period will either allow Ukraine to progress decisively or will seriously undermine its ability to resist," the proposal says.

Details: If approved, the plan involves reimbursing EU member states with over 20 billion for the substantial military aid, amounting to tens of billions of euros, that they are set to provide to Ukraine over the next four years.

At the outset of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU, through the European Peace Facility (EPF), disbursed 5.5 billion to member states that supplied Kyiv with weaponry, ammunition, tanks, and air defence missiles, primarily sourced from their existing stockpiles.

However, since the beginning of last year, Hungary has been obstructing any disbursements from the fund to member states for over six months, demanding actions from Ukraine unrelated to the matter.

In addition, some EU member states have depleted their reserves to the point where they cannot provide significant new aid, and Germany, which has been increasing its aid to Ukraine on a bilateral basis, objects to paying almost a quarter of the EPF bill.

Due to these challenges, the European External Action Service proposes the creation of a special military fund for Ukraine, absorbing part of the remaining assets of the EPF and replenishing it with 5 billion annually from 2024 to 2027.

The idea is to use these funds to compensate member states for joint procurement of military assistance, such as ammunition, drones, and air defence missiles, for Ukraine.

The rest of the funds will cover expenses for the EU's military training programme for Ukraine. Before the new plan takes effect, there will be a transitional period. The EU document provides approximate estimates suggesting the European Union could offer member states compensation for military aid amounting to 7.5 billion this year.

The new plan will enable smaller member states with limited ammunition reserves to pool their resources for joint purchases, making a more substantial contribution to aid Ukraine. This proposal will also facilitate the coordination of European governments with Ukraine in identifying its most pressing material needs.

The fund's structure will avoid regular payments that Hungary has often blocked or used as leverage to demand unrelated actions. Additionally, it will ensure a steady demand for military equipment over the next few years, supplementing national bilateral aid to Ukraine and potentially motivating European defence companies to increase the production of critical weaponry.

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EU foreign minister Josep Borrell said that a political agreement has been reached between the EU member states regarding the use of proceeds from frozen Russian assets.

Source: European Pravda; Josep Borrell, as quoted by Radio Liberty's Editor for Europe Rikard Jozwiak.

According to Josep Borrell, on Wednesday EU ambassadors should greenlight the decision to first save the funds on a separate account and then use them to support Ukraine.

Previously, Borrel stated that Ukrainians should not worry about the possible weakening of support from the European Union despite the shift in focus on resolving the conflict in the Middle East.

Background: On 1 February, EU leaders at their summit plan to make a political decision on a four-year package of financial assistance to Ukraine worth 50 billion.

According to press reports, on the eve of the EU summit this week, work will begin on a new plan to unblock tens of billions of dollars, which will help to increase the volume of military assistance for Ukraine.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes to use the EU summit on 1 February to urge member states to send more weapons to Ukraine.

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Meeting of the leaders from the Western Balkans, in Skopje

Meeting of the leaders from the Western Balkans, in Skopje

By Fatos Bytyci

SKOPJE (Reuters) -The European Union's 6-billion euro growth plan for the Western Balkans is a potential "game changer" that could double the size of regional economies in the next decade, an EU official said on Monday.

Leaders of the six Western Balkan countries -- Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia -- met on Monday in Skopje to discuss reforms needed to access the EU growth plan presented last October.

The EU's aim is to give greater stability to a region that emerged from the bloody 1990s break-up of Yugoslavia but is still racked by tensions.

"The growth plan is a potential a game changer and could double the size of your economies in the next decade," said Gert Jan Koopman, the European Commission's Director-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations.

The EU growth plan for the region would include the opening of its common market to the Western Balkan countries in areas such as free movement of goods and services, transport and energy.

But in return, the countries need to implement reforms and resolve all outstanding issues with their neighbours.

"The growth plan means 6 billion euros for the whole region and the amount of the money we will get depends on the good works that we do," Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said ahead of the meeting.

Having been promised EU membership years ago, the accession process across the region has slowed to a crawl, mainly due to reluctance among the bloc's 27 members and a lack of reform throughout the region.

Serbia and Montenegro were the first in the region to launch EU membership talks, and Albania and North Macedonia began talks with Brussels in 2022. Bosnia and Kosovo lag far behind their neighbours in the process.

Representatives of financial institutions including the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development also attended the meeting in Skopje.

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, James O'Brien, said procedures to enable lower fees for money exchange and access to faster customs procedures for trucks transporting goods from the Western Balkans into the EU were discussed.

"We will see results some time this year," he said after the meeting.

(Reporting by Fatos Bytyci; Writing by Ivana Sekularac; Editing by Ros Russell, William Maclean)
Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has commented on former US President Donald Trump's assertion that if he wins the 2024 elections, he will resolve the war between Ukraine and Russia in 24 hours.

Source: Borrell during a press conference on 22 January following the EU Foreign Affairs Council

Details: Comparing the intention to put an end to Russia's full-scale aggression to a "miracle", Borrell noted that no one has been able to come up with a "magic formula" to end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours.

"But I've heard President Zelenskyy has invited Trump to visit Kyiv and find a solution quickly. Because the people who want peace the most and strive for an end to the war are, of course, Ukrainians."

"And I would certainly be happy if Trump could offer them a 'magic formula' to end the war in 24 hours," Borrell concluded.

The former US President has previously stated on multiple occasions that he has a "plan" to ensure peace in Ukraine within 24 hours if he returns to the top job. After his victory in the primaries in Iowa earlier this week, Trump repeated his claim that if he wins the election, he would end the war "very quickly".

In November, Zelenskyy suggested Trump visit Ukraine, but Trump declined, citing a "conflict of interests" with the current administration of Joe Biden.

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Chinese mainland experts highlighted the inevitable trend of cross-Strait peaceful and integrated development and China's reunification, when commenting on the outcomes of recent leadership and legislature elections in Taiwan.

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) only gained 40.05 percent of the votes in the leadership election, receiving the least votes for a winning party in 20 years, and will no longer be the biggest and dominant political party in the island's new legislature, signaling that those supporting the DPP are in the minority, said Zhu Songling, professor at Beijing Union University.

Liu Xiangping, an expert on Taiwan studies at Nanjing University, attributed the election outcomes to the poor performance of DPP authorities in terms of economic and social development since 2016 and the party's separatist policies.

Despite its win in the leadership election, nearly 60 percent of voters did not choose the DPP and the size of the opposition could expand further, Liu said.

Zhang Wensheng, deputy director of the Graduate Institute for Taiwan Studies of Xiamen University, voiced concerns about Taiwan's future under the DPP.

As could be judged from the statements made by Lai Ching-te after being elected leader of the island, he has not changed his strategy of confronting the mainland and looking for U.S. support for the DPP's independence agenda, Zhang said.

If Lai sticks with his separatist stance, he will drag Taiwan into the depths of disaster and in the end it will be the people of Taiwan who will suffer, he warned.

Zhu agreed that the DPP's separatist policies will prevent Taiwan from securing peace and prosperity, while also compromising peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

However, the experts also expressed confidence in the inevitable trend of peaceful and stable relations and integrated development across the Taiwan Strait.

The Chinese Kuomintang party secured the most seats in the legislature, while the Taiwan People's Party, which also supports cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, seized eight seats. The result indicated that mainstream public opinion on the island is opposed to "Taiwan independence" and cross-Strait confrontation, and in favor of cross-Strait exchanges, Zhu said.

Meanwhile, the mainland has maintained the initiative and its ability to steer cross-Strait relations and shown commitment to policies that promote cross-Strait cooperation, deepen integration and safeguard the wellbeing of people on both sides, Zhang noted.

People across the Strait, who are one family bound by blood and linked by close economic interactions and cultural exchanges, will not let their relations be severed, said Liu, calling on them to work together in restoring cross-Strait relations to the right track of peaceful development and creating a bright future for all Chinese.
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen states that EU countries must simultaneously provide Ukraine with the necessary weapons as soon as possible while also building up the European Union's military industry to strengthen their own defence capabilities.

Source: Valtonen during a conversation with the media before the meeting of Foreign Ministers of the EU countries on 22 January, reports European Pravda

Quote: "We are now preparing decisions [on supporting Ukraine  ed.], which, I hope, will be adopted at an extraordinary summit in a few weeks."

Details: She recalled that Finland is one of the countries that has provided Ukraine with the most support in terms of capabilities, and she emphasised the importance of the EU's support remaining united and each country contributing proportionally.

Quote: "We need to address Ukraine's immediate needs, but we also need to find a way to strategically, over time, increase our common European defence industry and capabilities... It serves our strategic interests," Valtonen stated.

Background:

Latvia's Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasised that "Russia will not stop until it is stopped," and that fluctuations in support for Ukraine now and in the future will cost Western countries more than assistance to Ukraine.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto in a New Year's address called for investment in arms production to prove that Europe is strong.

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Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Najeeb al-Maliki, left, speaks with European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell during a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the European Council building in Brussels, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. European Union Foreign Affairs Ministers meet in Brussels on Monday to discuss the situation in the Middle East and in Ukraine. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, Pool)

BRUSSELS (AP)  European Union foreign ministers argued Monday that the creation of a Palestinian state is the only credible way to achieve peace in the Middle East, expressing concern about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus clear rejection of the idea.

The declarations of Benjamin Netanyahu are worrying. There will be a need for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for all, French Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Sejourne told reporters in Brussels, where ministers met to discuss the war in Gaza.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and Palestinian counterpart Riad Malki were also in Belgium's capital for the talks. The issue of Gazas future has set Israel in opposition to the United States and its Arab allies who are trying to mediate an end to the fighting in the besieged Palestinian territory.

The Palestinian death toll from the war between Israel and Hamas has surpassed 25,000, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza. Israel said Sunday that another of the hostages taken during the Oct. 7 attack that triggered the war had died.

The EU is the worlds top provider of aid to the Palestinians but holds little leverage over Israel, despite being its biggest trading partner. The 27 member countries are also deeply divided in their approach. But as the death toll in Gaza mounts, so do calls for a halt to the fighting.

Gaza is in a situation of extreme urgency. There is a risk of famine. There is a risk of epidemics. The violence must stop, said Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib, whose country holds the EUs rotating presidency. Not all EU member countries agree on the cease-fire call.

Lahbib said a two-state solution was the only way to establish peace in a durable way in the region.

Israel appears far from achieving its goals of crushing Hamas and freeing the more than 100 remaining hostages. But Netanyahu rejects Palestinian statehood and seeks open-ended military control over Gaza.

The dispute over the territorys future  with no end in sight to the war  poses a major obstacle to any plans for postwar governance or reconstruction.

The European ministers had wanted to hear about Israel's plans for the future.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind? asked EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who chaired the meeting. To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill off them?

But Katz appeared reluctant to respond. He showed the ministers two videos: one about the creation of an artificial island off the coast of Gaza, the other a project for a rail linking the Middle East and India.

I think the minister could have made better use of his time and focused on the deaths in Gaza, Borrell said. Asked about persuading Katz of the merits of a two-state solution, Borrell conceded that we werent able to get him to change his mind, but we werent expecting that.

The Palestinian minister said a cease-fire is the most urgent need.

We have to call collectively for a cease-fire. We cannot accept anything less, Malki said.

He also called on the EU to start contemplating sanctions against Netanyahu and others who are really destroying the chances for a two-state solution and for peace in the Middle East.

Spain has pushed for a peace conference to discuss what might happen once the fighting is over. A future meeting in Brussels is in the works, but the timing remains unclear. The plan has the backing of some EU member countries, but others say it can only happen with Israels support.

If Israel is not (at) the table, there is no use to have peace conferences, Luxembourg Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel said. He does not believe Israel will be ready for talks as long as it believes that Hamas poses a danger.

The Israeli minister refused to respond when asked about the possibility of Palestinian statehood. Holding up pictures of Israeli hostages, he said he had come to seek support for Israels campaign to dismantle Hamas.

We have to bring back our security. Our brave soldiers are fighting in very hard conditions, he told reporters. The Israeli government's aims, Katz said, are clear: to bring back our hostages and restore security for the citizens of Israel.

With regional tensions flaring, the ministers also gave their approval to an EU naval mission to help ensure maritime traffic security in the Red Sea, a major world trade route. Belgium has committed to send a frigate, and Germany could do the same. Italy also is willing to take part.

Borrell said that details remained to be ironed out, including when the mission might be launched.

For months, Yemen's Houthi rebels have attacked ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden that they say are linked to Israel or heading to Israeli ports. U.S. airstrikes have hit sites of the Iranian-backed Houthis seven times, according to U.S. officials. U.K. forces participated in some strikes.
(Bloomberg) -- Israels bombardment of Gaza is failing to root out Hamas and is seeding hate for years to come, the European Unions foreign policy chief said.

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Israel has been striking the Hamas-run enclave after the group carried out a deadly Oct. 7 incursion and took scores of people hostage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has come under mounting international pressure to end the operations against Hamas, which is designated a terrorist group by the US and EU, and for rebuffing US and Arab-backed initiatives for post-war Gaza.

Instead of destroying Hamas, Israel is seeding the hate for generations with its retaliatory strikes on Gaza, Josep Borrell told reporters Monday ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels. He urged parties to start thinking more concretely about a two-state peace process.

Israel, which has said that the only way to guarantee the security of its citizens is to eliminate Hamas entirely, says it accomplished much of what it set out to do. It has killed some of the groups key leaders and says it has degraded the group in northern Gaza, although fighting continues.

Israels foreign minister, Israel Katz, who traveled to Brussels for the meeting, said he was there to discuss efforts to free hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and how to dismantle the group completely.

Netanyahu said last week Israel would insist on keeping security control of both Gaza and the West Bank, which Palestinians claim as a future state. Those comments prompted a rebuke from the US State Department, while UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps told the BBC on Sunday it was very disappointing.

The sentiments were echoed by EU foreign ministers on Monday ahead of a meeting in Brussels, where they will be joined throughout the day by the top envoys from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt, as well as the Palestinian Authority and the Arab League.

Luxembourgs Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel said if the Israelis dont think a two-state solution is an answer, then theyre very isolated.

The support for Israel is at risk to shrink very quickly to a very low level, Bettel said, adding its in their interest to come to the table.

The EUs foreign policy arm has proposed ideas about a two-state solution to the blocs member states, including how countries might be able to impose conditions in the future to safeguard that solution, according to a senior EU official.

Israel rebuffed a settlement for postwar Gaza proposed by five Arab nations with US backing. The framework being pushed by the Gulf states of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, together with Israels neighbors Egypt and Jordan, offers aid on condition the Israeli government works toward Palestinian statehood.

Asked about the Israeli governments rejection of a Palestinian state, Borrell stressed the solution has been approved by the United Nations and the international community.

So they dont agree, we have to discuss, Borrell said. Which are the other solutions they have in mind? To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill them?

Hamas killed 1,200 people and abducted 240 others in its Oct. 7 incursion into southern Israel. Israel then launched strikes and a ground invasion of Gaza, where authorities in the Hamas-run territory say more than 25,000 people have been killed. In mid-December the World Bank estimated Israeli bombardment had damaged or destroyed over 60% of Gazas infrastructure.

Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib said her country, which holds the EUs rotating presidency, planned to organize a peace conference in Brussels in the near future with the hopes of restarting political dialog.

EU ministers are discussing a peace conference that would be convened by the EU, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the League of Arab States and, perhaps, the US, according to a document seen by Bloomberg prepared ahead of Mondays meeting of foreign ministers.

--With assistance from Maria Tadeo.

(Adds details of proposed peace conference in final paragraph)

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Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, speaks to the media before the Foreign Affairs Council meeting. -/European Council/dpa

The states of the European Union have reached an agreement "in principle" to launch a military operation to secure merchant shipping in the Red Sea, the EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell said on Monday following a meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels.

According to diplomats, the mission should ideally start next month and put an end to the attacks by militant Islamist Houthis from Yemen.

The Iranian-backed militia wants to force an end to the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip prompted by the unprecedented massacre by militants from the Palestinian Hamas movement on Israel on October 7 by firing on ships.

According to current plans, the EU mission will involve deploying European warships and airborne early warning systems to protect cargo ships in the region, but there are no plans to participate in attacks by the United States on Houthi positions in Yemen.

According to government sources, Germany intends to participate in the military operation with the frigate Hessen provided that the lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, issues a corresponding mandate after the EU plans have been finalized.

The ship is equipped with anti-aircraft missiles. It was specially designed for escort and maritime surveillance. With its special radar, it can monitor an airspace the size of the entire North Sea, according to the German armed forces, or Bundeswehr.

On Monday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for the preparations for the planned EU military mission to be finalized quickly. The final details must now be clarified urgently, she said on the fringes of the EU meeting. The indiscriminate attacks by the Houthis were also attacking "one of the central arteries of free shipping and therefore also of world trade."

Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz (L) and Josep Borrell (R), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa

Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz (C) and Josep Borrell (R), EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock (R) and Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz attend the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting with the Foreign Minister of Israel. -/European Council/dpa
(Bloomberg) -- The European Union will take the next step this week in its effort to recreate itself into a global power that can leverage its massive single market to rebuff coercive actions from the likes of Beijing, Moscow and even Washington.

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The EUs executive arm will unveil a proposal on Wednesday with rules aimed at boosting its power to screen and potentially block foreign investment in sensitive industries  including from foreign-controlled companies within the bloc  as well as considering the creation of a fund to increase the development of technologies that can serve both military and civil purposes, according to a draft of the plan seen by Bloomberg.

The Covid pandemic and Russias war against Ukraine exposed the EUs over-reliance on supplies from other nations, as well as trade vulnerabilities with partners that dont share the blocs values. Thats focused attention on the need to defend the EUs economic security, both to safeguard the supply of imported technology and to make sure that competitors cant gain control of Europes strategic industries.

The new strategy seeks to address risks to EU economic security, while ensuring that the EU remains a most attractive destination for business and investment, according to the draft, which is still subject to change. The goal would be to strengthen the EU and member states ability to address ongoing risk assessments related to supply chains, technologies, infrastructures and economic coercion.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned last week of the greatest risk to the global order in the post-war era.

Read more: Red Sea Shipping Chaos Worsens as US Strikes Broaden Crisis

Critical technologies identified by the EU include advanced semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and biotechnologies. But the commission wont decide until February whether further action is needed to boost technology security and mitigate risks based on the conclusions of the risk assessments on these areas that run jointly with member states.

This weeks package will include five initiatives, including:

Strengthening of the foreign direct investment regulation;

Coordination of export controls;

Options to support the research of dual-use technologies;

Ideas to improve research security;

First steps toward a new tool to control leaks of sensitive know-how to adversaries through European investments overseas.

Assertive Trade

The economy the EU is trying to shield is in much worse shape than that of China or the US. The euro area was probably in a recession in the second half of last year and grew just 0.6% in 2023 as a whole. That compares with expansion rates above 5% for China and more than 2% in the US.

The economic security package will build on the EUs efforts to date to become a more robust global actor, even as it remains a champion of multilateralism.

Read more: EU, China Raise EV and Liquor Probes in Davos Meeting

The commission in 2021 outlined a new trade doctrine in which assertiveness was added to the open and green mix, and its expanded its economic toolbox to counter so-called bullies, including China, with a new anti-coercion instrument.

Since it started buying key European companies over the past decade  including Germany robot-maker Kuka in 2016  Chinas rise has led the bloc to look for ways to strengthen its economic arsenal. Relations worsened since the EU in 2019 labeled Beijing as a systemic rival, and suspended a bilateral investment agreement amid a tit-for-tat sanction dispute over human rights.

As a result, the EU has pursued a strategy of de-risking from China instead of fully decoupling, in spite of pressure from the more aggressive stance taken by the US.

But the bloc is also competing with Washington. The two allies have failed to solve a years-long dispute over steel and aluminum tariffs, and are competing for resources and companies to accelerate the development of clean and digital technologies.

Read more: How World Fell Into a Subsidy Race for Climate Goals: QuickTake

The EU remains at a disadvantage due to its high level of energy dependence and the lack of many of the critical materials needed for the green and digital transitions. The pandemic also exposed the vulnerabilities of the EUs supply chains.

Those tensions have brought efforts to remain competitive in a hostile environment to the top of Europes agenda, with trade now seen as an essential tool to secure resources and supply chains, and to cement alliances.

The EUs trade chief, Valdis Dombrovskis, said on Friday that 2024 will be a challenging year, with the war in Ukraine, soon to enter a third year, and the Middle East conflict having the potential to disrupt trade and supply chains even further.

--With assistance from Zoe Schneeweiss.

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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has published an appeal to Ukrainians on Sobornist Day, the national day of unity and freedom of Ukraine, celebrated on 22 January.

Source: Zelenskyy on social media

Quote: "Exactly 105 years ago, right here on Sophia Square in Kyiv, the following lines were proclaimed: The age-old dreams have come true, dreams that the best sons of Ukraine lived for and died for. From now on, the constituent parts of a single Ukraine, separated for centuries, are united as one.

These are the words of the Unification Act, which brought together the Ukrainian lands on both banks of the Dnipro River into a single state. And on this occasion, today we celebrate the Day of the Unity of Ukraine.

Every year on 22 January, we have always recalled two key lessons of those times. Two guiding principles for all generations of the Ukrainian nation. To gain your own statehood, you have to fight. To preserve it, you have to unite.

And the day has come when it fell to all of us to prove that both of these lessons have been learned. Every Ukrainian knows this day. When recalling it, theres no need to mention the year, just the date and month will suffice. It's the 24th of February.

When we showed that the unity and independence of Ukraine are real, and not just sayings for us. And we did not give up our state, but proved from the first day of the war that peoples full-scale unity repels full-scale enemy aggression. Not symbolically, not sporadically, not just in theory, but on the frontlines  on all fronts of the war against subjugation. In every form that the battle for the preservation of Ukraine may take. United, independent, strong."

Details: The President emphasised that Ukrainians have been living and upholding the ideals of Ukrainian unity from the far west to the far east of the country since 1990. And on 24 February, Ukrainians "joined hands again", rejecting the chains of slavery in favour of the chains of unity. Zelenskyy pointed out that this time around, the chains of unity took on a new form.

Quote: "The only difference is that it has taken on a new form, where every Ukrainian is no longer hung up on the distinction between "my region" and "elsewhere", but considers every corner of Ukraine - every city and village - to be their home.

Where we became dear to each other; where Ukrainians from Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv, Odesa and Dnipro fight for Ukrainians in Donbas and Crimea; in the south and the north.

Where Ukrainians from Zakarpattia, Bukovyna and Halychyna open the doors of their homes to provide shelter to Ukrainians from Mariupol, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainians who fight. Ukrainians who work.

Ukrainians who help. Ukrainian mothers and Ukrainian children who have lost their homes and are now abroad, contributing to the common resistance, collecting and delivering what is needed here. When Ukrainians from each region work to protect every other region.

And to liberate every corner that is temporarily occupied. Where the Ukrainians now living there await our return and listen to what we say. Continuing to be Ukrainians, continuing to resist. And together we will definitely force Russia to leave. And the words of the Unification Act about the unification of parts of Ukraine that were separated from each other will be heard again. They will become a reality.

Because today every Ukrainian is fighting for every Ukrainian. Proving that when all Ukrainians have joined hands, they cant raise them to surrender."

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The row over the Post Office scandal and the hundreds of victims who are yet to be fully compensated has dominated headlines over recent days.

Here are the answers to questions you may have about the Horizon row, which still shows no sign of abating.

What caused the Post Office scandal?

The rollout of Horizon computing software - manufactured by Japanese company Fujitsu - across UK Post Office branches led to the prosecution of more than 900 sub-postmasters between 1999 and 2015. Faults in the software made it look like money was missing and sub-postmasters were charged with theft and false accounting as a result. Some were ordered to undertake community service or sent to prison and four are known to have taken their own lives.

What did sub-postmasters do when they found out they had shortfalls?

The Post Office ordered sub-postmasters to pay back money that was lost or face prosecution if they did not comply. They were contractually obliged to make up for the losses with their own funds. This resulted in some losing their livelihoods and going bankrupt as a result.

What happened to the extra money which was paid in?

Forensic accounts have said that the extra money paid in by worried sub-postmasters was likely credited to the Post Offices profit and loss account. If this was the case, then the Post Office would have declared larger profits or smaller losses that it should have done and would have needed less government subsidy as a result. If so, then the taxpayer inadvertently benefited from money wrongly taken from sub-postmasters.

When were the shortfalls attributed to the faulty computer software system?

It wasnt until December 2019 when a High Court judge ruled that Horizon contained bugs, errors and defects and there was a material risk that shortfalls in Post Office branch accounts were caused by the system.

How many sub-postmasters have had their convictions overturned since the 2019 judgment?

So far, 93 sub-postmasters have had their convictions overturned, but hundreds more have not yet come forward.

Have any sub-postmasters received compensation?

Around 138 million has been paid out to approximately 2,700 sub-postmasters across three compensation schemes, according to the Post Office. However, hundreds of others are yet to receive a payout. In September, the Government announced that every worker whose wrongful conviction was overturned would be offered 600,000 in compensation. Those who had already received initial smaller payments or had reached a lower valued settlement with the Post Office would be paid the difference. However, some lawyers who represent victims have said that even 600,000 is not enough in all cases to make up for what has been lost over two decades.

How did the Government come up with the 600,000 figure?

The first time victims of the scandal received any money was when those involved in Bates & Others v Post Office reached an out-of-court settlement with the Post Office in 2019. The Post Office did not accept liability, so this was a costs settlement not compensation. However, the group was awarded 57.75 million in total. However, some 46 million was taken in legal costs - leaving only 20,000 for each person. In April 2021, Nick Read, the chief executive of the Post Office, urged the Government to provide funding, arguing that his organisation did not have the financial resources to provide meaningful compensation. The Government went on to announce that sub-postmasters wrongly convicted of offences would get interim compensation of up to 100,000 a few months later, in July 2021. In September 2023, it confirmed that those who had had their convictions overturned on the basis of Horizon evidence would be paid 600,000 in full and final settlement of their claim.

What about sub-postmasters whose convictions have not been overturned?

Without proof of the convictions having been overturned, victims cannot currently claim compensation. People with criminal convictions typically need to go through an appeal process in court and the Post Office has said it covers all fees for lawyers and experts. On Wednesday, Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, announced that a new law would ensure those convicted as a result of the Horizon scandal are swiftly exonerated and compensated. However, experts have warned that such laws could undermine the independence of the courts and judges.

ITV drama Alan Bates vs The Post Office has helped highlight the issues raised in the Horizon scandal - ITV/Shutterstock

Who will fund the payouts?

So far the Government has funded the 138 million figure, but many have questioned whether Fujitsu - the firm behind the faulty software - should foot the bill. The multi-billion-pound Japanese firm typically receives more than 100 million in ongoing UK government contracts each year. On Tuesday, Mel Stride, Work and Pensions Secretary, told Good Morning Britain that he didnt think there was any working assumption at the moment that the taxpayer would fund the compensation payments. He said decisions going forward would be based on the outcome of an independent inquiry.

When will the independent inquiry finish?

The Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry was initially set up as a non-statutory inquiry in September 2020. Following a request from Sir Wyn Williams, the Chairman of the Inquiry, it became statutory in June 2021. Statutory inquiries have certain powers - including the ability to compel witnesses to give evidence. The inquiry was initially set to conclude in August 2022 but it is still ongoing and is now due to finish this year.

Has anyone been held criminally responsible for what happened?

The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation in 2020 which saw Fujitsu experts, who were witnesses in the trials, probed for potential perjury and perverting the course of justice. Two people were interviewed under caution as a result, but nobody was arrested. However, last week the Met confirmed that the Post Office was under criminal investigation over potential fraud offences committed during the scandal.

Why did Paula Vennells hand back her CBE?

On Tuesday, Vennells, the former Post Office chief executive, confirmed that she would hand back her CBE, which she was awarded in 2019 for services to the Post Office and charity. Her decision came after mounting calls for her to be stripped of the honour.

Paula Vennells ran the Post Office while it routinely denied there was a problem with its Horizon IT system - Anthony Devlin

What else do campaigners want Paula Vennells to do?

Campaigners would like to see Ms Vennells return the 2.93 million she received in performance-related bonus payments in lieu of a pension. Overall, she is understood to have been paid as much as 5 million in total during her tenure as the chief executive of the Post Office between 2012 and 2019.

Why has the scandal come to light again?

Newspapers, broadcasters and websites, including The Telegraph, have reported on the scandal over the years. However, the scandal has come to public attention again following the release of ITVs drama Mr Bates vs. The Post Office, which is the channels most popular drama in three years.

Who is Alan Bates?

Alan Bates was a sub-postmaster who was accused of theft when his accounts showed a shortfall. He first reported issues with Horizon in 2000 and eventually had his contract terminated in 2003 when he refused to comply with his obligations to pay back the losses from his own pocket. Mr Bates led the campaign group Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance to its High Court victory in 2019.

Will everyone get justice?

At least 33 victims of the scandal have already died without receiving compensation. Campaigners warn many involved are only getting older and that it is crucial action is taken quickly.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping has demanded all-out search and rescue of the people missing in a landslide in Zhenxiong County, southwest China's Yunnan Province.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the instruction after the landslide struck the county on early Monday.

A total of 47 people remain missing after the landslide buried the homes of 18 households.

Xi ordered prompt rescue efforts to minimize casualties. He also demanded strengthened monitoring and early warning as well as scientific approach in search and rescue efforts to guard against secondary disasters.

In his instruction, Xi called for ensuring appropriate measures to console the families of the victims and resettle those affected.

Xi said natural disasters, traffic accidents and work safety incidents are prone to occur with the Spring Festival approaching and due to the negative influence of the cold waves.

He asked relevant regions and departments to screen potential risks and shoulder their responsibilities to prevent major casualties and ensure the safety of people's lives and property.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called for all-out rescue and relief efforts. Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, urged rescuers to work against time to search for missing people and try their utmost to reduce casualties.

He also called for efforts to assess hidden risks of geological hazards in the surrounding areas and strengthen the monitoring of potential dangers to prevent secondary damages. Li stressed that people at risk should be transferred to safe places as soon as possible and people's lives and property should be fully secured.

Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, has led a working team to Yunnan to guide the rescue work.
Faculty at California State University, Americas largest public university system, began a historic weeklong strike on Monday as more than 30,000 workers walked off their jobs.

Professors, librarians, plumbers, electricians and other workers demanding higher pay and improved working conditions are striking. The five-day faculty work stoppage is the first to take place systemwide across Cal States 23 campuses.

The walkout comes two weeks after CSU officials ended contract negotiations with a unilateral offer of a 5% pay raise effective 31 January, far below the 12% hike that the union, the California Faculty Association, is seeking. California is one of the most expensive places to live in the US and pay has not kept up with the rising costs, faculty say.

Related: From therapy to qigong: survivors of the Monterey Park mass shooting are still searching for healing

CSU management wants to maintain the status quo, which is not working for the vast majority of our faculty, students and staff, Chris Cox, the CFA vice-president of racial & social justice, north, and a lecturer at San Jose State University, said in a statement. In order for us to have a properly functioning system in years to come, we need to improve the working conditions for faculty and learning conditions for students.

With the new semester beginning on Monday, classes for many of the systems 450,000 students could be cancelled, unless faculty members individually decide to cross picket lines.

The CFA represents roughly 29,000 workers. They were joined on the picket lines by 1,100 CSU skilled trades workers represented by the Teamsters Local 2010, which has also not yet reached a new contract with the university.

Mildred Garcia, the Cal State chancellor, said on Friday in a video call with journalists that the university system had sought to avoid a strike but the unions salary demands are simply not viable.

We must work within our financial reality, she said.

In December, CFA members staged one-day walkouts on four campuses in Los Angeles, Pomona, Sacramento and San Francisco to press for higher pay, more manageable workloads and increased parental leave. The CFA has also sought gender inclusive restrooms and changing rooms and more counselors for students but says management has ignored nearly all its demands.

The union says the university has money in its flush reserve accounts and could afford the salary increases with funds from operating cash surpluses and the $766m CSU has in emergency reserves.

Our proposals are reasonable and absolutely necessary, Dr Rong Chen, a CSU San Bernardino professor emeritus and CFA-San Bernardino president, said in a statement.

We also know that the university has the money to fund them  if only it would get its priorities straight, he added, pointing to the CSU reserves, recent raises for university presidents and the chancellorss nearly $1m compensation package.

Leora Freedman, CSUs vice-chancellor for human resources, said reserve funds cannot be tapped for wage hikes because they are meant for times of economic uncertainty or emergencies, including wildfires or earthquakes.

Weve made several offers with movement, and most recently a 15% increase that would be paid over three years, providing faculty a 5% increase each year. But the faculty union has never moved off its 12% demand for one year only, she said.

The increase the union is seeking would cost the system $380m in new recurring spending, which the university cant afford, Freedman said.

The university strike comes after a major year for the US labor movement. Last year, healthcare professionals, Hollywood actors and writers and auto workers staged high profile strikes as they picketed for better pay and working conditions.

In 2022, teaching assistants and graduate student workers in the University of California System went on strike for a month.

The Associated Press contributed reporting
Tri-City families and college students hoping to get their applications in early for federal financial aid are instead finding themselves frustrated with a new process.

The U.S. Department of Education on Dec. 31 soft launched a revised and simplified Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024-25 attendance cycle.

The new application  a mandate of the 2019 FAFSA Simplification Act  was supposed to make the process easier for students by allowing them to skip questions in lieu of a data exchange with the Internal Revenue Service.

Instead, issues with the system have complicated and prolonged what is an annual tradition for college families. Education Week recently compared the new process to buying hard-to-get tickets to Taylor Swifts Eras Tour.

Financial aid experts at Columbia Basin College and Washington State University Tri-Cities are urging students to be patient and seek assistance if theyre having trouble with the new application. Many universities and colleges already have extended their priority deadlines to March.

This is the largest change that has happened to the financial aid application in 40 years, said Melanie Casciato, CBCs director for student recruitment.

More than 14 million students are expected to file a FAFSA this year. The application  in addition to the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) for undocumented students  opens the door financially for many students to further their education after high school.

Financial aid experts at CBC and WSU in Tri-Cities say students should be patient applying for the 2024-25 FAFSA.

Nearly half of all Tri-City college students are the first in their family to attend some sort of post-high school education.

But financial aid experts agree: If theres one year to delay filing your application, this one might be it.

Were really asking families to pause, let the dust settle and then well help you navigate these changes, Casciato said.

FAFSA application issues

The new FAFSA process has worked flawlessly for some students and shaky for others, said Jana Kay Lunstad, WSU Tri-Cities campus registrar and director of financial aid.

Most of the issues revolve around two errors: Creating their unique Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) and getting information on the application to match the IRS data exchange.

Students have to agree to a direct data exchange with the IRS and theyre not able to manually enter their income (anymore). And if they dont agree to this direct data exchange, then they cant complete the application, Kay Lunstad said.

In some instances, students and parents have had their applications locked up because their names on the form dont match those that are filed with the federal government.

The application process has also been plagued in its first week with intermittent outages that limit access. Students are also reporting long wait times to verify social security numbers.

Kay Lunstad said theyre also hearing from some parents who are not comfortable with the data exchange.

Were trying to reassure our parents and students that this is for the students education... Its not to be used against them, it is used solely to determine their eligibility for aid, she said.

But all these problems are not for nothing, Kay Lunstad says.

The Department of Education is actively resolving bugs and glitches, and the process is getting better. Its estimated 610,000 more students from low-income backgrounds will be eligible to receive Federal Pell Grants, essentially free money for college, as eligibility this year expands.

On the new FAFSA, students can skip as many as 26 questions depending on their circumstances.

This is a significant change and we do believe it will benefit more students. Its just an adjustment this new year in learning the new application and helping the students through the changes, she said.

Washington state has long lagged behind others in FAFSA completion rates, according to the Seattle Times.

Roughly 45% of the states class of 2023 filed an application, ranking it 47th among the 50 United States. Nationally, about 59% of the senior class completed the form.

Financial aid experts, including Kay Lunstad and Casciato, encourage all high school seniors and prospective college students to file a FAFSA because its the only way to find out if theyre eligible for assistance.

A classroom inside the Academic Building at College of Western Idaho Nampa Campus is pictured on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023.

Financial aid help events

Need help filing your FAFSA? Experts with CBC, WSU Tri-Cities and Heritage University are available to help.

CBC is hosting multiple events this month at high schools and public libraries.

Registration can be found on the listed events on CBCs public calendar at columbiabasin.edu.

Richland School District Financial Aid Night: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, at the Richland Public Library.

Kennewick School District Financial Aid Night: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31, at Kennewick High School.

Pasco School District Financial Aid Night: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at CBCs SWL Building.

Regular CBC Financial Aid Assistance Events: Feb. 6 and 27, and March 12. All events 3-6 p.m. and will be held at CBCs SWL building.

WSU Tri-Cities is accepting invitations to come to high schools and will be at future STCU events. The campus financial aid department is also partnering with several school programs to help current students complete their application.

STCU Pasco Branch FAFSA Event: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 5677 Road 68.

Heritage University is also hosting several financial aid nights in the Tri-Cities and greater Yakima Valley area.

Tri-Cities Campus Family Financial Aid Night: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31, at the Mid-Columbia Libraries Pasco branch.
MANCHESTER, N.H.  The New Hampshire attorney general's office says it is investigating what appears to be an "unlawful attempt" at voter suppression after NBC News reported on a robocall impersonating President Joe Biden that told recipients not to vote in Tuesday's presidential primary.

"Although the voice in the robocall sounds like the voice of President Biden, this message appears to be artificially generated based on initial indications," the attorney general's office said in a statement. "These messages appear to be an unlawful attempt to disrupt the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election and to suppress New Hampshire voters. New Hampshire voters should disregard the content of this message entirely."

The investigation comes after a prominent New Hampshire Democrat, whose personal cellphone number showed up on the caller ID screens of those receiving the call, filed a complaint.

What a bunch of malarkey, the robocall phone message begins, echoing a favorite term Biden has uttered before.

The message says that its important that you save your vote for the November election.

Voting this Tuesday only enables the Republicans in their quest to elect Donald Trump again. Your vote makes a difference in November, not this Tuesday, it says.

The message concludes with a phone number belonging to Kathy Sullivan, a former New Hampshire Democratic Party chair who now runs a super PAC supporting the campaign to urge New Hampshire Democrats to write in Bidens name in the primary.

If you received this robocall or have more information on it, contact NBC News here.

Bidens name does not appear on Tuesdays ballot, a consequence of state elections officials' setting the date of the primary before South Carolinas on Feb. 3, the first sanctioned contest of the 2024 nominating race under new Democratic National Committee rules.

But local supporters launched the late write-in effort to both marshal support for Biden and send a message to the national party about New Hampshires coveted, centurylong tradition of holding the nations first primary.

In an interview, Sullivan said she began receiving calls Sunday evening from those who had received the message. A woman she spoke to told her that Biden had called her, though she said she was not a Biden supporter.

I said, You got a call from Joe Biden, and he gave you my number? Sullivan said she responded.

A volunteer for the write-in effort also received the call and recorded it, Sullivan said, and shared it with organizers of the Biden write-in campaign. One of the organizers then shared it with NBC News.

Its not clear how many voters received the call or what types of voters were targeted. Lists of voters phone numbers can be readily purchased from data brokers.

And Sullivan said that while it is not clear who is behind the robocall, its obviously somebody who wants to hurt Joe Biden.

I want them to be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible, because this is an attack on democracy, said Sullivan, an attorney, who said she believes the call could violate several laws. Im not going to let it go. I want to know whos paying for it. Who knew about it? Who benefits?

She said she also plans to engage with federal law enforcement.

Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said that "the campaign is actively discussing additional actions to take immediately."

Sullivan was party chair in 2002, when a so-called phone-jamming effort was carried out during a hotly contested U.S. Senate race. Two Republican officials, including the executive director of the state Republican Party and a Republican National Committee operative, were convicted of using computer-generated phone calls to disrupt Democrats get-out-the-vote call center operations.

State officials are speaking out against the calls.

Secretary of State David Scanlan said the calls reinforce a national concern about the effect of artificial intelligence on campaigns.

Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., said she hopes the attempt to dampen turnout for Biden will backfire.

"I urge Granite Staters to make sure their friends and neighbors know the truth and turn out in even bigger numbers to write in President Bidens name," she said.

The campaign of Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who is challenging Biden for the nomination, said it was not aware of the calls but called them wildly concerning.

Any effort to discourage voters is disgraceful and an unacceptable affront to democracy, spokesperson Katie Dolan said. The potential use of AI to manipulate voters is deeply disturbing.

A spokesperson for Trumps campaign denied any connection to the calls, saying, Not us. We have nothing to do with it.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
 Flash

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.
A robocall that appears to be an AI voice resembling President Joe Biden is reaching out to New Hampshire residents, advising them against voting in Tuesdays presidential primary and saving their vote for the November general election.

Audio of the call was reviewed by CNN from the anti-robocall application Nomorobo. Their tracking data suggests a large volume of calls. Its unclear who is behind the call.

Republicans have been trying to push nonpartisan and Democratic voters to participate in their primary. What a bunch of malarkey, says the digitally altered Biden voice. We know the value of voting Democratic when our votes count. Its important that you save your vote for the November election. Well need your help in electing Democrats up and down the ticket. Voting this Tuesday only enables the Republicans in their quest to elect Donald Trump again.

The application rates the number of calls, which were first reported by NBC News, as severe, among its highest rating for calls.

Nomorobo CEO Aaron Foss told CNN their data showed that 76% of the robocalls targeted New Hampshire, with 12% directed at Boston and the remaining 12% covering other areas. They estimated the number of these fraudulent calls ranged from 5,000 to 25,000.

Bidens name will not appear on the ballot in the upcoming New Hampshire primary on Tuesday over a dispute between the state and the Democratic National Committee, which voted to move the New Hampshire primary out of its traditional first-in-the nation position. As a result, there is an organized effort to write-in Bidens name.

This matter has already been referred to the New Hampshire Attorney General, and the campaign is actively discussing additional actions to take immediately. Spreading disinformation to suppress voting and deliberately undermine free and fair elections will not stand, and fighting back against any attempt to undermine our democracy will continue to be a top priority for this campaign, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Bidens campaign manager, said in a statement.

Aaron Jacobs, a spokesperson for Write-In Biden, said in a statement, This is deep fake disinformation designed to harm Joe Biden, suppress votes, and damage our democracy, adding that the group remains focused on one goal until polls close on Tuesday: encouraging Granite Staters to write-in Joe Biden.

At the end of the call, the voice of an unknown male directs listeners to call a local New Hampshire number to be removed from future calls.

The call uses spoofing, a common practice in fraudulent robocalling which manipulates caller ID information to display a false phone number, obscuring the true identity of the caller.

The robocall shows up on caller ID as a local New Hampshire number that belongs to Kathy Sullivan, a former New Hampshire Democratic Party chair and treasurer for the Granite for America PAC. The PAC is working to encourage voters to write in Bidens name this Tuesday.

In a phone interview, Sullivan, who is supporting Biden in the 2024 election, said she first received calls on Sunday night and spoke with the New Hampshire attorney generals office on Monday to file a complaint over the robocall.

Its very apparent that theres someone, or someones, out there who want to suppress the primary write-in vote on Tuesday, tomorrow, by sending out this robocall saying, Dont vote for Joe Biden, or Joe Biden saying, Dont vote on Tuesday, save your vote until November, said Sullivan. Its voter suppression by someone who wants to hurt Joe Biden.

Sullivan said she believes her phone was listed as a way to jam up her phone lines.

Its personally annoying, but more importantly its just reprehensible that someone would be trying to suppress the vote by telling people not to vote on Tuesday, she said. Thats an interference with our democracy. It doesnt get much worse than that.

The campaign of Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, who is challenging Biden in the New Hampshire primary, found out about the call from reporter outreach last night, according to spokesperson Katie Dolan.

Any effort to discourage voters is disgraceful and an unacceptable affront to democracy, Dolan said in a statement. The potential use of AI to manipulate voters is deeply disturbing.

CNNs Alison Main and Edward-Isaac Dovere contributed to this story.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A 26-year-old woman part of a drug trafficking conspiracy that involved 76 defendants has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Rachael P. Byrd, nicknamed Byrd is the Word, Waverly, Ga., was sentenced to almost 30 years in federal prison, the Department of Justice said Monday.

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Byrd was said to be a large-scale meth trafficker and also worked with a corrupt guard to smuggle drugs into prison.

Rachael Byrd provided a pipeline from an Atlanta methamphetamine supplier to a corrupt prison guard, and to the conspiracys leader inside prison walls, U.S. Attorney Jill Steinberg said. She fueled meth addiction in communities throughout south Georgia, and this substantial sentence holds her accountable.

Action News Jax told you in January that Byrd was part of an extensive drug ring investigation dubbed Operation Ghost Busted. As part of the multi-agency operation, a total of 76 defendants were indicted on charges that included conspiracy to possess and intent to distribute.

Related Story: Operation Ghost Busted: 2 people still wanted in Southeast Georgia drug trafficking bust, FBI says

Much of the activity was coordinated from inside Georgia Department of Corrections prisons to the outside, David Estes, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia said.

In a statement by the Department of Justice, the drug trafficking conspiracy was linked to the white supremacist Ghost Face Gangsters that distributed large amounts of high-grade methamphetamine, along with fentanyl, heroin, and alprazolam (Xanax) in Glynn County.

Byrd was described as a leader in the drug organization. Her role was said to involve transporting kilos of meth from Atlanta to distribute to street-level drug dealers in south Georgia. It is said she was the link to her boyfriend, James D. NeSmith, 26, an inmate serving a life sentence for murder in Telfair State Prison.

Read: Million-dollar drug bust exposes overdose problem in Jacksonville and the toll it takes on families

Byrd helped to lead a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for plaguing the streets of our communities with drugs and crime, and she learned the fate for her corruptions, Will Clarke, Senior Supervisory Resident Agent of FBI Atlantas Brunswick Office said. This significant sentence is the result of the hard work and coordination of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners working to bring illegal drug trafficking to an end in Georgia.

So far, almost 70 of the 76 defendants have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing in U.S. District Court.

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Some of the agencies involved in Operation Ghost Busted include FBI Coastal Georgia Violent Gang Task Force, the Glynn County Police Department, the Brunswick Police Department, the Glynn County Sheriffs Office, and the Camden County Sheriffs Office. Multiple federal, state, and local agencies were also involved in bringing down the drug organization.

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.
Semafor Signals

Insights from The Wall Street Journal, Haaretz, and The New York Times

The News

Dozens of family members of Hamas hostages stormed Israels parliament Monday demanding immediate action on their release. The protesters shouted, You wont sit here while they are dying there! the Associated Press reported, and some were physically restrained.

Protests calling for hostage negotiations have increased after more than 100 days since Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7. Some protesters have camped out in front of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus home in Jerusalem, and others have called for an election.

There is also increasing international scrutiny on Israels military campaign in Gaza. Both Mexico and Chile backed calls for the International Criminal Court to investigate crimes against civilians in Gaza, following South Africas high-profile case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Israel rejected hostage deal which called for permanent ceasefire

Sources: NBC News, The Wall Street Journal

Negotiations to secure the release of hostages have repeatedly failed, and Netanyahu reportedly rejected a deal with Hamas that wouldve seen the return of hostages in exchange for a permanent cessation of hostilities. One diplomat told NBC News that some details have been negotiated, however: Israel and Hamas may soon agree to a one-month pause in fighting, with hostages released by Hamas in three phases. There are some divisions appearing within the Israeli war cabinet, The Wall Street Journal reported, as not everyone shares Netanyahus hardline response to Hamas. Gadi Eisenkot, a non-voting member of the cabinet, said in a recent interview that it is impossible to return the hostages alive in the near future without an agreement.

Israelis open to Palestinian statehood one poll finds, even as government rejects possibility

Source: Haaretz

Netanyahu has repeatedly rejected calls from Washington and other allies for a two-state solution. Palestinian statehood has been touted as crucial for lasting stability in the region, but Netanyahu and previous Israeli governments have long resisted efforts for its establishment. The Israeli public, though, support the idea: Recent polling found that a U.S. plan to establish a Palestinian state that is linked to the release of hostages and a normalization of ties with Saudi Arabia had broad support, Haaretz reported. The findings upend a long-held assumption that the Israeli public would reject a two-state solution. Our impression is that the Israeli public has lost faith in any kind of agreement with the Palestinians, one diplomat involved in negotiations told the paper. It needs to be encouraged, and they need to be shown reason to hope for such a process.

Israeli plan to eliminate Hamas not compatible with freeing hostages

Source: The New York Times

Strategists increasingly view Israels military objective of destroying Hamas operations in Gaza as incompatible with freeing hostages taken on Oct. 7, The New York Times reported. Generals who spoke to the paper said that Israels war plans would likely kill hostages that remain in the enclave. Of the estimated 132 hostages in Gaza, around 30 are estimated to have died. And of the more than 100 who have been freed, only one was released in an Israeli rescue operation, while the rest were freed as part of a temporary truce agreement. One war expert called the war a stalemate, telling the Times that its not an environment where you can free hostages.
JERUSALEM  Dozens of family members of hostages held by Hamas stormed a committee meeting in Israels parliament Monday, demanding a deal to win their loved ones release, as European foreign ministers joined growing international calls for Israel to negotiate on the creation of a Palestinian state after the war.

The developments showed the increasing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has dug in on both fronts. He has insisted to the Israeli public that pursuing the devastating offensive in Gaza is the only way to bring the hostages home. At the same time, he has rejected the United States vision for a postwar resolution, saying he will never allow a Palestinian state.

The dispute over Gazas future pits Israel against its top ally and much of the international community. It also poses a major obstacle to plans for postwar governance or reconstruction of the coastal territory, large parts of which have been left unlivable by Israeli bombardment.

In other developments, Israeli strikes and shelling intensified in and around the southern city of Khan Younis, sending Palestinian families fleeing south in pickup trucks and donkey carts loaded with possessions.



In the city, which has been a battle zone for weeks, people dug graves for the dead inside the yard of Al-Nasser Hospital as staff struggled to deal with dozens of newly killed and wounded, including children. Health care workers said strikes hit at least four schools sheltering displaced people on the citys western edges, including two inside a coastal strip that Israel had declared a safe zone for people fleeing.

Gazas internet and phone networks collapsed again Monday for the 10th time during the war. The repeated blackouts severely hamper distribution of aid thats essential for the survival of the territorys population of 2.3 million, U.N. officials said. The loss of service also prevents Palestinians from communicating with each other and the outside world.

Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until complete victory over Hamas and to return all remaining hostages after the Oct. 7 rampage in southern Israel that triggered the war. In that attack, some 1,200 people were killed and Hamas and other militants abducted around 250 people.

Israelis are increasingly divided on the question of whether its possible to do either.

Around 100 hostages were freed under a weeklong cease-fire deal in November in exchange for the release of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Around 130 remain captive, but a number have since been confirmed dead. Hamas has said it will free more captives only in exchange for an end to the war and the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners.

Netanyahu has ruled out such an agreement, but anger is rising among hostages families. Relatives and other protesters set up a tent camp outside Netanyahus residence in Jerusalem, vowing to remain until a deal is reached.

On Monday, dozens of family members of the hostages stormed into a gathering of the Knessets finance committee, holding up signs and yelling, You wont sit here while they are dying there!

These are our children! they shouted. Some had to be physically restrained, and at least one person was escorted out.



Israels offensive has killed at least 25,295 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children.

Residents in Khan Younis reported bombardment on all sides of the city. At Nasser Hospital, Ayman Abu Abaid, the head of surgery, told Al Jazeera TV early Monday that at least 50 dead and more than 100 wounded had been brought to the facility.

Netanyahu, whose popularity has plummeted since Oct. 7, faces pressure from the U.S. to shift to more precise military operations and do more to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The United States is also calling for a reformed Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza after the war and for negotiations to start on a two-state solution. The authority currently governs pockets of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and was ejected from Gaza in 2007 when Hamas took power.

Netanyahu has rejected both the entry of the Palestinian Authority and the creation of a Palestinian state. His governing coalition is beholden to far-right parties that want to step up the offensive, encourage the emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and reestablish Jewish settlements there.

At a meeting in Brussels, European Union foreign ministers added their voices to the calls for a Palestinian state, saying it was the only way to achieve peace.

French Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Sejourne said Netanyahus rejection of statehood was worrying. There will be a need for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for all.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind? EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said of Israel. To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill them off?


HAVANA (Reuters) - Family members of 34 prisoners in Cuba who were jailed following anti-government protests in July 2021 have filed a petition with lawmakers seeking an amnesty for their loved ones.

According to rights groups, some 1,000 people were jailed in the wake of the protests, the largest since Fidel Castro's 1959 revolution. Some of those were immediately released, but hundreds are now serving sentences that range from a few years to over 20 years, according to NGO and official tallies.

The petition letter, filed on Friday, asks Ana Maria Mari Machado, vice president of the National Assembly, to begin the process of proposing and debating a law that would "recognize that there was no crime in expressing the will for democratic change by citizens who protested in July 2021."

It includes signatures from the relatives of several high-profile protesters, including Maykel Castillo and Luis Manuel Otero, both of whom appeared in the music video for the Latin Grammy-winning song "Patria y Vida," the unofficial anthem of the July 11 protests.

An online petition also began circulating this week, seeking support both domestically and abroad.

Cuban officials say those jailed following the protests violated Cuban law and were convicted after facing trial for crimes ranging from assault and public order offenses to sedition.

The United States and the European Union have criticized Cuba's response as repressive and heavy-handed, and together with the Catholic Church have called for the release of prisoners.

More than a dozen additional people from Nuevitas, in eastern Cuba, faced trial last week for protests that took place in August 2022, according to a court document viewed by Reuters, and are currently awaiting their sentences.

(Reporting by Dave Sherwood, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
Ask any American with young children what their No. 1 household expense is, and youll hear the same answer almost every time: child care. Each family finds its own way to manage. Some parents are pushed out of the workforce. Others work jobs they wouldnt take otherwise or hold down multiple jobs in order to meet their families needs.

To show how real families are navigating this child care challenge, HuffPost is profiling parents around the country. If youd like to be featured in an installment, email us at parents@huffpost.com.

Rachael Gomez, her husband and their children live in the Dallas area.

Rachael Gomez, her husband and their children live in the Dallas area.

Name: Rachael Gomez

Age: 34

Occupation: Texas sales manager for a group of small craft distilleries

Location: Dallas area

Childrens ages: 7 months, 2 years and 9 years (oldest child is Gomezs stepson)

Annual household income: $90,000

Weekly take-home pay: $1,500

Child care costs: $200 per month

Work arrangements: Gomez and her husband, Jesus, met through work. How we met was in the [restaurant] industry. Now, due to child care issues, he actually is a stay-at-home dad. He has been for about two years now.

When I was pregnant with Aly Rose, our 2-year-old, his son did not live with us full-time. We had him on the weekends. And at the time, he was working at a restaurant. The hours were crazy. We knew that we werent going to be able to swing caring for children. So he quit working in restaurants and started working for a wine distributor that offered a lot more flexibility.

We tried to make it work with our schedules. But he ended up getting a new boss that just made his schedule a lot more demanding, and so our schedules really didnt align. We put Aly Rose on six to eight different waiting lists for day cares before she was born, and then a couple after. Ive only even gotten a call from two of those places.

Aly Rose is now 2 and a half. She was born in July 2021. She ended up in the NICU for three weeks, unexpectedly, and so we brought her home the beginning of August. We tried to make it work schedule-wise until he ended up quitting his job December 1, 2021. My parents actually came down and watched the kids for three weeks prior, just because it really wasnt working like we hoped. We had looked at other day cares, and any other option that we could at the time, before we made the decision for him to quit his job: Angies List, Care.com. People didnt have availability for like seven to eight months. There were two [day cares] that said that they were going to have openings within six months. But they were 3.1-star, 2.3-star  and they were the best-rated in the area. We thought, do we really want our kids to have a 3.1-star life? Thats almost failing. He had been managing people for so long, and he was kind of tired of it. Im very career-driven, as well as family-driven. He gave me the option for him to stay home.

To go from two pretty decent incomes to literally cutting our income in half was hard. We tried to mentally justify it with, Oh, but look how much were saving on day care and all of this, but at the end of the day, youre still at a loss. Its a blessing now, because his son has some special needs, he has autism. Now hes able to live with us full-time, and Jesus has more time that he can dedicate to taking him to appointments, managing his care from home as well as taking care of the kids. Its been a little over two years. I have a higher-paying job, but its still not enough to offset him having no income.

My employer covers my health insurance, but the plan that they offer for my dependents and spouse is like $1,200 a month. So we chose to get a plan through the marketplace for his use and the kids. Its not much cheaper. It saves us a couple hundred a month, which, at this point, anything helps.

The thing about my job is, its pretty flexible. I typically have some calls in the morning and some admin stuff that I do, starting at nine. I usually have a couple of free hours in the middle of the day. Then I leave my house to go out to visit accounts starting around four oclock, and theres nights I dont get home till midnight.

Even when I get home early, hes put three kids to bed. The only thing he has energy for is to sit on the couch. We open a bottle of wine. We just veg out for an hour until we both say, OK, lets pry our eyes away [from the TV] and go to sleep because were going to be up in two hours.

Gomez anticipates that Jesus will return to the workforce once all their children are in school, about five years from now. He has his associates degree and hes talked about getting his bachelors degree in an online program, but theres just no time. Every time we try to prioritize something, even just as small as going to the gym  if I have a call in the morning, by the time that he wakes up to go to the gym, then both babies are up. So hes probably going to put off going back to school at least for another two or three years.

Child care plan: We did start Aly Rose in a mothers day out program in January of this year. It runs two days a week, five hours a day. Luckily, its right down the street from our house and gives Jesus a little bit of relief. Its $200 a month, which is OK, in my mind. Pretty affordable compared to other day cares. But it is a very short window of time. He drops her off after he drops his son off at school and picks her up before he picks him up, but it gets him a good four and a half hours of one-baby time.

We tried to [drive for] DoorDash or Uber Eats [to make] enough money to pay for her day care. If I get home and theres a bonus program on DoorDash, Ill go out and drive for DoorDash for three or four hours.

The family is looking at preschools for Aly Rose next year, but options are limited. Their income is too high for subsidized programs, and other programs are located far from home and offer only a few hours of care several days per week. They plan next year to send their younger daughter to the same mothers day out program, which is housed in a church and runs on a school calendar. Its for babies who are at least 1 year old and walking.

Both of us are happy that weve made it work. Its a struggle financially, and I mean, Im sure it will be forever, with the cost of everything going up. Yesterday he said, I need adult time, I caught myself talking to your cousin in a baby voice. And I leave the city of Dallas and I work out of market throughout the rest of the state one to two weeks a month. So hes here full-time. You couldnt pay me money to stay home with with my kids. Theyre great kids, but I just need that adult interaction. There werent really a whole lot of good choices.

What would help their family: Theres no one mandating day care pay, and those are the people that are caring the hardest for our children. Not just educating them, but literally cleaning up after them and carrying them around and helping to potty-train them and do all of the things that parents are trying to do, but for 12 bucks an hour. Day care pay regulations would be super helpful.

Also, theres no mandated parental leave, which is insane. I had six weeks with both children, and with Aly Rose I only had two weeks of maternity leave. The rest of it was short-term disability, meaning I didnt even get full pay. Were not planning on having any more children because we cant financially  thats another two years before Jesus can go back to work and we can try to pay off some debt weve accrued over the last few years.

I went back to work both times before I had my six-week checkup. I hadnt been medically cleared to lift things, and I had to go back to work. Having a little more time, parents have the ability to bond with their kids. In our case, we thought we could make child care work between the two of us. [Paid leave] would have given us a little more more leeway and breathing room to figure out a different plan. But I had already gone back to work, and there was no spare time to figure out a plan B or C.

I might not have it all, but I have it better than a lot of people. OK, yes, weve racked up a lot of debt. And yes, it sucks that my husband is stuck at home with the kids all day and we dont have that income and were not able to save money. Its always hard for me to to be like, I want subsidized anything, because we have it pretty good. Do we need help? We do need child care. We both slept an hour and a half last night with a sick kid, [and] our 2-year-old doesnt sleep ever. If we got a day care facility for the kids, we could have taken a nap this morning. Been refreshed enough to actually care for our children, instead of, to be really honest, theyre probably going to end up in front of Ms. Rachel this evening, because were gonna be too worn out to do anything, and I wont be home till midnight.

Related...
Condolences from family, friends, and peers of Dexter Scott King have begun to circulate after The King Center announced his death on Monday.

King was the youngest son and third child of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

The King Center announced that he died after a battle with prostate cancer at age 62.

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His sister Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center stated Words cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling. Im praying for strength to get through this very difficult time.

His brother Martin Luther King, III added I am deeply saddened to share that my brother, Dexter Scott King, has passed away. The sudden shock is devastating. It is hard to have the right words at a moment like this. Please keep the entire King family in your prayers and in particular Dexters wife, Leah Weber.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens stated about Kings passing:

I stand with Atlanta and so many worldwide in grieving the loss of Dexter Scott King. His profound and unwavering love for his family positioned him as a guardian of his father and mothers legacies. Dexter held various titlesMorehouse Man, humanitarian, Civil Rights activist, and even actor. However, above all, he was a devoted family man. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Leah Weber King, Dr. Bernice King, Martin Luther King III, their entire extended family, and all who knew and loved him.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said on X, Marty, the girls, and I are saddened to hear of the passing of Dexter Scott King, following his difficult bout with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire King family at this time.

TRENDING STORIES:

Rev. Al Sharpton posted on X, My condolences to all of Dexters family & friends. May he RIP, may his legacy live.

The Atlanta City Council released the following statement:

Dexter Scott Kings life and contributions will leave a lasting impact on the legacy of the King family and the broader struggle for equality and justice. We express our sincere condolences to his wife Leah Weber King, Martin Luther King III, Dr. Bernice King, the King Center, and all who cherished him. His contributions to civil rights and his role as a member of Atlantas beloved family will leave an indelible mark on our society. His memory will be a source of inspiration and may those in mourning find solace and comfort at this difficult time.

Senator Reverend Warnock, who also serves as the Senior Pastor of Atlantas Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of Dr. King and the King family, released the following statement Monday night:

As a voice for Georgians in the Senate and the pastor of the King familys spiritual home, I was saddened to learn of the passing of Dexter King, son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. I prayed earlier today with the King family, and I join the citizens of our state, nation, and the global beloved community in extending my deepest condolences, strength, and solidarity to them during this time of remembrance and grief. May God comfort Dexters wife, Leah; his siblings, Martin King III, and Rev. Bernice King; and grant to their entire family a peace that surpasses human understanding.

The family said it is still working to finalize funeral arrangements for the coming days.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
A 26-year-old man whom Palm Bay police said shot and killed his mother, grandfather and sister and wounded his nephew and one other person over the weekend struggles with mental illness, family members say.

Tashawn Clive Taylor, 26, was arrested by Melbourne police about an hour after the Saturday night shootings, and went before Brevard County Judge Judy Atkin Monday for a first appearance on three counts of first-degree premeditated murder. He was assigned a public defender during the hearing.

Palm Bay police have not yet discussed a potential motive in the case. Taylor remains in Brevard County Jail without bond.

The suspect's father and other family members told FLORIDA TODAY that Taylor's mother had sought treatment for her son for several years after a diagnosis of schizophrenia, a mental illness often accompanied by paranoia and delusions. The family said they didn't know what might have led to the shootings. Most people with mental illnesses are not violent, health experts point out.

Police identified the shooting victims as 60-year-old Angella Suglam, Taylor's mother; his grandfather, 79-year-old Stephen Suglam; and 31-year-old Lisa Suglam, Taylor's sister. Police said a 15-year-old nephew was also shot, along with 59-year-old Gary Taylor. Gary Taylor's relationship to the family was not immediately known.

Palm Bay Police on Sunday at Woodlake Village, at the scene where three people were shot dead and two wounded in an apartment complex. See the story by J.D. gallop for more information,

"He's my son, he's sick and has schizophrenia," said George Taylor of South Florida, who last saw his son two years ago while his son was in a facility being treated.

"This is such a tragedy. But I know he is not in his right mind," said George Taylor, who said he plans to come to Palm Bay later this week to console other family members and try to see his son in jail.

Tashawn Taylor, in handcuffs and a suit designed to prevent self-harm, appeared in court before Judge Judy Atkin at the Brevard County Jail on Monday afternoon. At times, Taylor appeared confused as Atkin asked him questions about having an attorney to represent him on the charges.

What is an attorney? Taylor muttered at one point, standing behind the glass partition as other defendants looked on from behind him.

You need a lawyer, sir, this is a murder charge. Its very important that you have an attorney to help you, Atkin said. I truly must have an answer to that question.

Its OK, I guess, Taylor told the judge, as Brevard County public defender Michael Mario Pirolo stood next to him. The judge ordered Taylor held in jail without bond on the murder charges and appointed Pirolo as Taylor's legal representative. Pirolo did not immediately respond to an inquiry from FLORIDA TODAY.

A search of arrest records shows Taylor was arrested for stealing a toaster from Walmart in 2021 and was charged with resisting arrest, according to West Melbourne police records. A judge later ruled, in August 2021, that Taylor was incompetent and could not go forward in trial, court records show. The judge, however, followed recommendations from the state attorney's office that Taylor continue being observed by Circles of Care, a mental health facility in Melbourne, records show.

If convicted on one murder charge, Taylor could be sentenced to life in state prison.

Neighbors reported gunfire

Palm Bay police were called about 9 p.m. Saturday to Woodlake Village Apartments' sprawling complex off of Palm Bay Road to respond to a 911 call from neighbors reporting the sound of gunfire.

Officers found five people shot, including the three fatally wounded, in two rooms of the apartment where the shootings took place. Several people lived in the apartment located in the 2700 block of the 462-unit complex, family members said.

Officers then searched for the suspected gunman, who also lived there, calling in assistance from Melbourne police. The suspect was taken into custody in Melbourne, and a black Lexus was placed atop a tow truck outside another complex less than two miles away in south Melbourne. It is not known if a gun was recovered.

Palm Bay detectives say Taylor had earlier walked from his bedroom with a laser-scoped handgun and into the bedroom where his mother, Angella Suglam, was lying in bed, one of the witnesses told officers. In the bed with Suglam were two children, reports show.

Tashawn, dont do it, the mother yelled before being struck in the head by gunfire, police said.

Tashawn Taylor then fired several more rounds, striking his sister Lisa, who fell on top of one of the victims who survived the shooting. The victim told officers that he pretended to be dead while Taylor walked around the apartment, reports show. The witness then heard someone yell, Whats going on?' before two shots were fired, followed by a door slamming. Other residents fled from the apartment to get help from neighbors, pounding on doors, reports show. One child hid under a bed, reports show.

Palm Bay police cordoned off the area to Woodlake Village Apartments.

Taylor then left the apartment, getting into his mothers black Lexus and driving toward Melbourne. All three of the relatives who were killed were shot in the head, police reported.

"Everybody, everybody is just shocked," said Nikita Brown, a cousin of Tashawn Taylor, who lives in New York. She got word about the shooting from another family member.

Family members described two of the shooting victims, the suspect's mother and his sister, as home health care nurses who took on private clients.

Angella Suglam had moved to Florida from New York years before for a change of scenery, Brown said.

More: Three dead, two wounded in Palm Bay shooting; suspect charged, held

"(Angella) was a nice, loving person. She didn't have a problem with (Tashawn) and always tried to take him to his medical visits. It was not a troubled family," Brown said.

Brown also added that Lisa Suglam was a mother of three, describing her as a good mother who helped take care of her brother, Tashawn.

"He could get in his mood sometimes, especially if he didn't take his medicines," she said. "It's just so sad. He has to take his medicine."

The shootings are the deadliest homicide case in Brevard County since last March, when sheriff's investigators say a father shot and killed his 15-year-old daughter, her mother and two others in a Canaveral Groves home.

Detectives continue to talk with witnesses in the Palm Bay case, including survivors and others believed to be in the apartment when the gunfire broke out.

Family members, including the sister of one of the women killed, gathered outside the apartment complex Sunday, saying they did not know why the shootings took place.

"That's what's puzzling me. I have no idea why this happened," George Taylor said.

"I'm trying to process this now."

J.D. Gallop is a criminal justice/breaking news reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or jgallop@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @JDGallop.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Palm Bay triple homicide suspect suffers mental illness, family says
(Bloomberg) -- A Georgia judge released dozens of documents in the divorce case of Nathan Wade, a special prosecutor hired by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis to oversee the election-conspiracy prosecution against former president Donald Trump.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The unsealing came amid allegations that Wade and Willis had a secret romance and took vacations together paid for with more than $650,000 in taxpayer funds Wade got for managing the two-and-a-half-year investigation that led to the racketeering indictment of Trump and 18 others.

Trump allies have used the embarrassing details to attack Willis, who brought one of four indictments against Trump as he seeks the Republican nomination to challenge President Joe Biden for the White House. The judge overseeing the racketeering case has set a Feb. 15 hearing to consider a request by Trump co-defendant Michael Roman to remove Willis and Wade from the case.

The divorce records disclosed Monday offered an uncomfortable look at rancorous proceedings that included Wades failure to provide financial information demanded by his estranged wife, Joycelyn, after he filed for divorce in 2021. Shes accused Willis of having an affair with her husband and subpoenaed the district attorney to testify in the case.

Joycelyn Wade became increasingly frustrated at her inability to learn key details about her husbands finances while trying to work out a settlement for ending their 26-year marriage. In February 2022, she said it was clear Wade had no intentions of cooperating or complying with demands for documents, and a year later he had yet to provide any additional documents whatsoever, court documents show.

Nearly Nothing

In a Dec. 7 filing, she complained that hed left her without any means of financial support or a way to pay her lawyers. Wade had earned $700,000 from Williss office since May 2022, even as he provided her nearly nothing for her support and survival, often causing her bank account to be in overdraft, she said.

As a stay-at-home mother for two decades, she had relied on biweekly payments of $700 for personal and household expenses. Since the divorce, Nathan Wade continuously draws from this account for his own personal and household expenses, she said in a court filing.

The records, unsealed in Cobb County Superior Court, show that the judge had cited Nathan Wade for contempt for failing to provide financial data his wife sought. Wades contempt order came in the same week that Trump was indicted.

Most of the documents were available online after the unsealing, but a few could only be obtained in the courthouse. An April 2022 filing previously obtained by Bloomberg News showed Wade took a five-year, $25,000 loan from LendingClub Corp. in 2015, and paid it back by 2020, along with interest payments of $11,167. That reflects an interest rate of 15.6% on the loan.

Judge Henry Thompson unsealed the documents as Joycelyn Wade seeks to question Willis under oath. In a hearing Monday, he deferred a decision on whether Willis must testify in the divorce case. Willis filed an emergency motion on Jan. 19 to halt the subpoena, claiming it was an attempt to harass and intimidate her.

The next day, Joycelyn Wade responded with a legal filing claiming Willis should testify because she has unique knowledge of Wades finances and marriage, including that Wade bought plane tickets to travel with her to Miami and San Francisco.

Since Wade filed for divorce, he has taken trips to San Francisco and Napa Valley, to Florida and even gone on Caribbean cruises, enjoyed a trip to Belize, another to the country of Panama and even just last month took a trip to Australia, according to the filing. The evidence is clear that Ms. Willis was an intended travel partner for at least some of these trips.

Thompson ruled that he will block Willis testimony until after Wade first gives a sworn deposition in the case. The judge said he can then decide if Willis has unique information to help determine what matters in the case: how to divide the marital assets; how much Wade owes in alimony; and what the attorneys deserve in fees.

It seems to me that Mr. Wade would be the best source of information on what his income has been, how hes been spending it and whether hes been engaged in an extramarital affair, Thompson ruled in a hearing broadcast on YouTube.

The judge has set a hearing for Jan. 31.

At that time, we expect Mr. Wade will be forced to provide more answers to questions about both his conduct and his finances, Joycelyn Wades lawyer, Andrea Dyer Hastings, said in a statement.

A coalition of media outlets that includes Bloomberg News had asked the judge to unseal the divorce case records.

(Updates with details of the unsealed divorce records, statement from Joycelyn Wades attorney.)

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China, Africa should enhance exchange on governance: FM

Xinhua) 09:37, January 22, 2024

BRASILIA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- China and Africa should strengthen the exchange of experience in governance and jointly explore ways to accelerate modernization, 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.

China looks forward to the two sides reaching consensus on this issue at the new session of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to be held this fall, he added.

Over the past decades, especially since the establishment of the FOCAC 24 years ago, bilateral cooperation has yielded historic achievements, which has not only changed Africa, but also drawn more international attention to Africa, Wang said, adding that China welcomes more global input into Africa and is glad to see countries contributing to this cause.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward the principles of China's Africa policy -- sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and reached important consensus with African leaders on building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future, Wang said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
 Flash

Palestinian people are seen on their way from Gaza City toward south, in central Gaza Strip, Nov. 8, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Citing Egyptian officials, a report on Sunday by the Wall Street Journal said the mediators have proposed a 90-day plan for the ceasefire. In the first phase, the fighting will stop, and Hamas will release all Israeli civilian hostages, while Israel releases Palestinian prisoners and increases aid. The plan also includes the rebuilding of Gaza and talks for a permanent ceasefire and the relaunch of a process to establish a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war.

"As prime minister of Israel, I have strongly upheld this position in the face of great international and domestic pressure," he said. "As long as I am prime minister, I will continue to strongly insist on this," he added.

He said that Palestinian statehood would pose "an existential danger" to Israel, without elaborating on the reasons.

The remarks were an outright public rejection of calls for Palestinian sovereignty following talks with U.S. President Joe Biden on post-war Gaza. Netanyahu said he talked with Biden on the phone over the weekend and "emphasized our determination to achieve all the goals of the war," including the elimination of Hamas.

Netanyahu rejected Hamas' demand for an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza as prerequisites for releasing about 130 hostages still held in Gaza. "If we agree to that, our fighters have fallen in vain, and we couldn't guarantee the security of our citizens," he said.

After a flight over Gaza, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant stated that the operation in Khan Younis, previously considered a safe zone, "will soon expand. Smoke will continue to cover Gaza's skies until our goals are achieved -- the collapse of Hamas and the return of hostages."

On Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released footage of a kilometer-long, booby-trapped tunnel it uncovered in Khan Younis, showing narrow rooms with metal bar doors, where, according to the army, hostages were held. No hostages were found. The army said that ground, air, and naval forces have continued to strike across Gaza. A soldier was killed in fighting in the southern Gaza Strip.

According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, a total of 178 Palestinians were killed over the past day, making it one of the deadliest days of the conflict.

At least 25,105 Palestinians, mostly women, children, and the elderly, have been killed by the Israeli strikes since Oct. 7, and 62,681 others were injured in the enclave, the ministry said in an update.
Alice Weidel, leader of the AfD parliamentary group, gives a press statement at the start of her party's parliamentary group meeting. The AfD's Weidel told the Financial Times newspaper that she would be in favour of a referendum on Germany's EU membership if the far-right party can't force through major changes to EU rules. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

The co-leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has described the United Kingdom's referendum to leave the European Union, known as Brexit, as a potential model for Germany.

The AfD's Alice Weidel told the Financial Times newspaper that she would be in favour of a referendum on Germany's EU membership if the far-right party can't force through major changes to EU rules.

Weidel, who has been co-leader of the AfD since 2022, said a future AfD government in Germany would seek to reform the EU and remove its "democratic deficit," including by curbing the powers of the European Commission, which she derided as an "unelected executive."

"But if a reform isnt possible, if we fail to rebuild the sovereignty of the EU member states, we should let the people decide, just as Britain did," Weidel told the newspaper. "And we could have a referendum on 'Dexit'  a German exit from the EU."

Polls have consistently shown a large majority of German voters support the European Union and have little interest in quitting the bloc. Britain left the European Union after a 2016 referendum.
By Brendan Pierson

(Reuters) -GSK, Pfizer and other pharmaceutical companies are urging a judge in Delaware this week to find that evidence plaintiffs' lawyers want to use in about 72,000 lawsuits claiming that the discontinued heartburn drug Zantac caused cancer is not supported by science.

If they are successful, that could end much of the long-running litigation over the drug and greatly reduce the risk of hefty damage awards or settlements, which has weighed on companies' shares in recent years.

Mark Cheffo, a lawyer for GSK, told Judge Vivian Medinilla of the Delaware Superior Court in Wilmington that the litigation was "a case of lawyers and lawsuits getting ahead of the science - way, way ahead of the science," at the start of a three-day hearing that kicked off on Monday.

No reliable studies link Zantac use to cancer, Cheffo said, a view shared by all the defendants.

Instead, he said, plaintiffs rely on a finding that Zantac's active ingredient, ranitidine, can decay into a chemical called NDMA. While NDMA may cause cancer in large amounts, he said, the levels that might appear in Zantac are similar to those found in common foods and have not been shown to cause cancer.

In 2019, some manufacturers and pharmacies halted Zantac sales after NDMA was detected in some pills. Shortly afterwards, lawsuits began piling up from people who said they developed cancer after taking Zantac. Plaintiffs said the companies knew, or should have known, that ranitidine posed a cancer risk and that they failed to warn consumers.

Brent Wisner, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said the experts did not have to rely on evidence directly linking Zantac use to cancer. Instead, he said, they could show that the drug contains NDMA, and present evidence that NDMA can cause cancer.

That evidence could include studies of animals and of people exposed to NDMA occupationally, he said, pointing to one study of rubber workers.

"Rubber workers are humans who are exposed to NDMA," he said. "That's why they're relevant."

Medinilla is presiding over the majority of the nearly 80,000 cases still pending in the United States over Zantac, which was once the world's top-selling drug.

The drugmakers, which also include Sanofi and Boehringer Ingelheim, notched a significant win in 2022, when another judge dismissed about 50,000 lawsuits making similar claims that had been consolidated in federal court in Florida. That judge concluded that the opinions of the plaintiffs' expert witnesses that Zantac can cause cancer were not supported by sound science. Plaintiffs are appealing that ruling.

Medinilla will be using the same legal standard to assess the expert testimony as the Florida judge, though she could reach a different conclusion, and the experts the plaintiffs lawyers have put forward are different from those excluded in the lawsuits in federal court.

Most of the Delaware lawsuits claim Zantac caused types of cancer, including prostate, breast and colorectal cancer, that plaintiffs' lawyers dropped from the federal litigation in order to focus on claims linking Zantac to other malignancies, including cancer of the bladder and stomach, that they believed were supported by stronger evidence.

If Medinilla rules plaintiffs' experts cannot testify that Zantac is capable of causing cancer, it would effectively end all the Delaware cases. The judge could also allow testimony linking the drug to some kinds of cancers, but not others, which would reduce but not eliminate the companies' potential liability.

BESTSELLER

First approved in 1983, Zantac became the world's best selling medicine in 1988 and one of the first-ever drugs to top $1 billion in annual sales. Originally marketed by a forerunner of GSK, it was later sold successively to Pfizer, Boehringer Ingelheim and finally to Sanofi.

In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration asked drugmakers to pull Zantac and its generic versions off the market after NDMA was found in samples of the drug.

Concerns about protracted legal wrangling and potential payouts that could stem from the litigation wiped almost $40 billion from the collective market value of GSK, Sanofi, Pfizer and GSK-spinoff Haleon over roughly a week in August 2022.

Lawyers for the other defendants are expected to speak during the hearing later in the week.

In addition to the cases in Delaware, the drugmakers are facing about 4,000 claims in California state court and about 2,000 in various other state courts around the country. The drugmakers have settled several individual cases in California ahead of trial.

No cases have gone to trial yet, though some are scheduled later this year in California.

(Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot)
On the night of March 20, 1981, two Ku Klux Klan members in Mobile, Alabama, snatched Michael Donald at gunpoint while he was walking back to his sisters house. He had gone out to pick up a pack of cigarettes at a nearby gas station. The Klansmen beat the Black 19-year-old, strangled him, and slit his throat. They left his body hanging from a tree.

The slain teenagers mother, Beulah Mae Donald, worked with her attorney and Morris Dees, the co-founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center, to file a civil suit against the United Klans of America. On Feb. 12, 1987, a jury awarded her a $7 million judgment  a sum that was big enough to bankrupt the hate group.

Her attorney was Alabama state Sen. Michael Figures. To him, the money didnt matter. What mattered was pulverizing the Klan corporate organization to prevent another Black family from suffering as the Donalds had suffered. Now, his 38-year-old son Shomari Figures, who said that witnessing his fathers steadfast commitment to racial justice was instrumental and defining in helping him choose a career, hopes to keep up the fight as an elected official. A former White House staffer for President Barack Obama, he is vying to represent the new majority-Black congressional district Alabama was ordered to draw after a surprising U.S. Supreme Court decision last June.

Beulah Donald (center) wipes tears from her eyes as she enters the funeral service for her 19-year-old son Michael Donald, who was killed by two Klansmen. The case would later spawn a $7 million civil judgment against the United Klans of America that bankrupted the hate group. (Mark Foley/Associated Press)

When your father was known for having risked his life to bring down the Klan in the name of general public safety and in the name of Black Americans being able to live their lives free of the threat of violence, then you have to find a way to make peoples lives better as well, Figures told Capital B.

(He noted that his father received death threats until he died in 1996. Some of those threats came in the form of holiday cards that had sinister messages written within: Merry Christmas, [N-word]. Just thinking about you, one card read.)

Shomari Figures (secoond from the left) says the steadfast commitment to racial justice by his father, Michael Figures, was instrumental in helping him choose a career. (Courtesy of the Figures family)

Figures is organizing his campaign around issues such as boosting access to health care, revamping the education system, and bolstering voting rights. Black Alabamians have long suffered from poverty rooted in exploitative economic and political arrangements that followed Reconstruction, when formerly enslaved people were left without any money, property, or other resources needed to be successful, per a 2022 University of Alabama report. Black Alabamians account for around 42% of residents below the states poverty line, though they make up about 27% of the states overall population. This contributes to a slew of problems: worse health outcomes, meager labor force participation levels, high unemployment rates, and more.

With the new district, which includes parts of the states Black Belt region, Black Alabamians have a fair shot at electing someone who will bring in resources and create a sense of urgency around community needs, as Evan Milligan, a lead plaintiff in the Alabama case, told Capital B last June. This greater representation is especially critical in ruby red states such as Alabama, where the interests of Black voters, who lean Democratic, arent often reflected in political leaders policy choices.

Last fall, Figures left his position as the deputy chief of staff and counselor to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to join a crowded Democratic primary field; 11 candidates are running. He stands out, he argued, because hes worked in all three branches of government and knows how these different branches can be used to help district residents. And he added that, unlike many candidates, he lives in the district and is proximate to the issues people care about.

Ahead of the March 5 contest, Capital B spoke with Figures about Black Alabamians excitement around the new district, the issues on residents minds, and the assault on voting rights thats gained fresh intensity in recent months.

Our conversation has been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Capital B: How do Black Alabamians feel about having an additional majority-Black district?

Shomari Figures: Excited. People are very excited about the possibility of being able to put another person in Congress who will actually prioritize the many communities and places that have been overlooked by leadership in the past, certainly in the recent past.

Read more: Alabama and the Politics of Retribution

People are really looking forward to going to the polls in March and being able to cast a ballot that actually has the possibility to drive a result that can produce change when it comes to federal focus on the issues in their communities. People are eager and ready to go.

How are you trying to connect with people  what issues are you mobilizing around?

Were connecting with people by getting out and talking with them and hearing what their concerns are. When you sit down and have these conversations in one-on-one environments or in group settings, youll be able to resonate with people.

For instance, in Alabama, we have among the lowest life expectancies in the nation. People in Alabama arent expected to live too much longer past their 60s. Thats a mind-blowing statistic: that if youre born in the state of Alabama, youre likely to be among the first in the U.S. to die. When you frame that issue through that lens, it resonates.

Read more: From Racial Slurs to Lynching Jokes, New Lawsuit Details Alleged Racism in Nursing Home

Everyone in the state of Alabama knows someone who didnt go to the doctor routinely, so by the time they went, it was too late, and they were dealing with something that was irreversible. For many, if not most, of those people, the reason they didnt go to the doctor was because they didnt have access to affordable health insurance, so they lived their lives just kind of getting by medically. Had they been able to go to a doctor, they wouldve discovered that they had something that was very avoidable or reversible.

That story is incredibly common. I was recently in Monroeville  thats the birthplace of Harper Lee  and I asked people in the room how many of them know someone who didnt go to the doctor and by the time they went, it was too late. Every hand went up.

And a lot of the issues we have are issues that people struggle with across the country. Our education system needs to be addressed. We need to pay our teachers more. Im a believer that teaching is the single most important profession for the future of this district and state and country, and we have to treat it that way.

The attack on the Voting Rights Act has intensified since Alabama got a second majority-Black congressional district. What are your thoughts on this supercharged assault on Black voting power?

Unfortunately, these attacks arent new. The Voting Rights Act has been attacked in various forms since its inception. For a long time, we were able to rely on the court system to uphold the essence of the Voting Rights Act, but obviously the law took a big hit with 2013s Shelby County v. Holder decision. I think that a lot of people and entities, including the current leadership in the state of Alabama, saw that decision as an opportunity to go after the Voting Rights Act in its entirety  to gut it and make it meaningless.

Read more: This Case Could Undermine Voting Rights and Black-Latino Political Solidarity

Of course, people have fought back successfully. The Alabama case is an example of one of those successes. At the core, voting is essential to democracy, and I feel that, as a country, we should be doing everything we possibly can to make voting easier, more accessible. We should be encouraging the greatest amount of participation we can. But, unfortunately, weve seen a faction in this country do the exact opposite, and make voting tougher and more restrictive. Thats real. Its reflected in the laws and policies passed since 1965  and certainly more recently.

All of this is a reminder that freedom isnt free. That the rights that people marched for and bled for and died for across the state of Alabama  Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham  and across the South, we have to continue to fight for them.

The post His Father Bankrupted the Klan. He Wants to Keep Fighting for Justice in Congress. appeared first on Capital B News.
LOS ANGELES  House Democrats campaign arm is preparing TV advertising backing the leading Democrat in the hotly contested race for Republican Rep. David Valadaos Central Valley seat, making the unusual decision to wade into a jungle primary to avoid getting locked out of the November runoff.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and Democrat Rudy Salas will begin running coordinated ads this week in Bakersfield. The DCCCs decision to back returning challenger Salas over Democratic newcomer, state Sen. Melissa Hurtado, underscores the high stakes in one of this years most closely watched races.

Valadao, a moderate Republican who was one of the 10 who voted to impeach then-President Donald Trump in 2021, faces a challenge from far-right Republican Chris Mathys, who came within a few points of knocking out Valadao in the 2022 primary. With a presidential election likely to drive up Republican turnout, the two Democrats on the primary ballot run the risk of splitting the vote and getting boxed out of the general election.

To avoid what could be a publicly embarrassing faceplant, DCCC is throwing its weight behind Salas, a former state legislator who came within spitting distance of the seat in 2022.

The DCCC will do whatever it takes to ensure that MAGA enabler David Valadao is ousted from Congress this November, and Rudy Salas  who came within just over 3,000 votes of unseating Valadao in 2022  is the best candidate to get the job done, spokesperson Dan Gottlieb said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Hurtado declined to comment. Salas campaign deferred to the DCCC.

The full extent of the ad buy was not immediately available, but AdImpact tracked $56,000 in spending as of late Monday morning. Valadaos campaign declined to comment.

Californias 22nd Congressional District is one of the key targets for Democrats looking to win back the House, and Valadao is facing vulnerabilities on both sides. The district leans Democratic, and went for President Joe Biden by a margin of 13 points in 2020. Valadao, despite a spirited challenge from the left, has managed to hang on to the seat by walking a moderate line on issues like immigration and the economy.

Trump could jeopardize that this year. While Democrats are painting Valadao as a MAGA enabler, critics on the right are knocking him for not supporting the former president enough.

Republicans in the district have historically made up the majority of primary voters, and the former presidents presence on the ballot could push that number even higher. Mathys, an ardent Trump supporter who has repeatedly dinged Valadao for his impeachment vote, could capture many of those voters and put the incumbent on the defensive.

It appears Valadao is already feeling the pressure from the right.

American Action Network, a Washington-based nonprofit conservative group that focuses on policy, recently cut a 30-second adcasting Valadao as a leader in the effort to end catch and release, force illegal immigrants to remain in Mexico and build the wall.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  The Downtown Austin Alliance said Monday it is hosting an information session next month covering several festivals.

According to the Alliance, the Spring Festival Forum will discuss items including schedules, traffic issues, security and parking involving the 2024 South by Southwest Conference and Festivals, SXSW EDU and the CMT Country Music Awards.

People from those events and the Austin Police Department and Capital Metro will be at the Feb. 22 forum, the Alliance said.

The forum lasts from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Texas Public Policy Foundation at 901 Congress Ave.

The Alliance said the following groups should attend the forum:

Food and beverage purveyors

Venue operators

Downtown property and business owners and managers

Security personnel and provider agencies

Downtown residential property managers and private parking operators

Downtown tenant representatives

Seating capacity is limited, the alliance said, and will be held on a first-come, first-served basis.

You can reserve a free spot here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
OKLAHOMA COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR)  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says an Oklahoma hospital did not violate federal law when doctors told Jaci Statton who had a nonviable pregnancy to wait in the parking lot until her condition worsened enough to qualify for an abortion under the states strict ban.

The Associated Press first reported the development.

26-year-old Statton was among several other women who last year challenged abortion restrictions that went into effect in several states after the Supreme Court revoked the nationwide right to abortion in 2022.

The rejection came at some point last week.

| READ MORE > Federal complaint filed after woman denied life-saving abortion >

Original Story below

KFOR interviewed Statton who, in September said, The ultrasound tech refused to sign off on the exception. he insisted that he could hear a heartbeat and told the doctors that he, that they, could not touch me due to the ban.

During Sattons pregnancy, she said doctors at OU Health agreed she would need an abortion and should receive care since her health was at risk.

Thats when her family was told something they didnt want to hear.

They told him they couldnt touch me until I was crashing and that we should wait in the parking lot until I was about to die, said Statton.

It was then that a complaint had been filed with the U.S. Health and Human Services by the Center for Reproductive Rights.

The complaint said that OU Childrens Hospital violated the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) when having denied Statton an abortion.

The complaint came a little more than a year after Bidens administration informed hospitals that they must provide abortion services if the mothers life is at risk.

At the time, President Joe Bidens administration said EMTALA supersedes state abortion bans that dont have adequate exceptions for medical emergencies.

The Biden Administrations denial of Stattons claim is the latest in the ongoing scrutiny over how to apply EMTALA in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade.

It also underscores the uphill legal battle reproductive rights advocates when pushing back against state abortion bans.

| MORE LOCAL NEWS > Love County crash kills four including two children >

Ultimately, Statton and her husband traveled out of state to have an emergency abortion rather than wait for her health to deteriorate.

In October, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services  which operates under Health and Human Services  informed Statton that its investigation could not confirm a violation of the emergency care federal law.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The Department of Energy awarded its Hanford support services contractor only $2.9 million of a possible $8.4 million in incentive pay in its subjective evaluation for fiscal 2023.

However, Hanford Mission Integration Solutions (HMIS) earned 98% of the pay available for meeting objective goals outlined in its performance plan for the year for a total of $15 million of almost $21 million available in incentive pay for the year.

DOE was unhappy with the contractors management of fire system maintenance workers, work activities and associated costs.

DOE directly reimburses HMIS for its costs of providing services and then HMIS earns profit through incentive pay, called fee at Hanford, which is determined by DOE.

During the performance period, DOE was provided with evidence of numerous occasions when crews assigned to perform fire system maintenance were excessively idle and participated in non-work-related activities, said DOE in a one-page award fee determination scorecard made public.

DOE blamed ineffective work planning and unproductive work execution that went uncorrected by contractor management.

We disagree with the DOE position, said HMIS President Bob Wilkinson in a message to employees.

Overall employees performed a high quality and quantity of work during fiscal 2023, he said.

The 78% of possible fee earned for objective evaluations of work goals completed and subjective evaluations compared to 90% of possible pay earned for fiscal 2022, the contractors first full year of work at Hanford.

HMIS provides support services for DOE and other contractors at the Hanford site, where environmental cleanup is underway. HMIS is responsible for water, power, sewer, roads, fire, security, snow removal, information technology, training and more.

From World War II through the Cold War, the 580-square-mile Hanford nuclear reservation near Richland in Eastern Washington produced almost two-thirds of the plutonium for the nations nuclear weapons program.

DOE praised HMIS for meeting 35 of 37 performance target levels and its overall performance of site services, including support for specific environmental cleanup projects underway by other Hanford contractors.

However, it needs to improve communication and coordination when services, such as water and fire systems, are taken out of service so plans and preparations can be made by other contractors.

Correcting the fire system maintenance program will require improving personnel activities, work planning and execution, and cost management and reporting, DOE said.

HMIS also needs to improve fire apparatus pump, aerial and ground ladder testing to ensure equipment available.

HMIS is owned by Leidos Integrated Technology, Centerra Group and Parsons Government Services
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  In-person and virtual public feedback is planned on Monday about an average North Carolina home insurance rate hike of 42.2 percent, which is proposed by insurance companies.

The 42.2 percent is just an average  much higher rates of 99.4 percent are proposed at beaches and 57 percent in inland areas such as Wilson and Edgecombe counties.

RELATED: Click here for list of rate hikes sought by firms in counties and towns in North Carolina.

So far, the feedback the North Carolina Insurance Commissioner has heard is that people cant afford such an increase.

Not one person has said, Raise my rates, Mike Causey said just days after the plan was released by the North Carolina Rate Bureau. These people are telling me that theyre struggling.

RELATED: Click here for list of rate hikes sought by firms in counties and towns in North Carolina.

Causey pointed out that in 2020 the North Carolina Rate Bureau asked for a nearly 25 percent increase and ended up with just under 8 percent.

The Outer Banks Association of Realtors has come out against the plan  arguing its much too expensive for working folks at the coast.

Were looking at people that are teachers, EMS, these are people that are in the trade service industry. You know, people have this illusion that the Outer Banks is just, you know big huge oceanfront vacation homes and thats not the case, Willo Kelly, a North Carolina real estate agent said last week.

RELATED: Click here for list of rate hikes sought by firms in counties and towns in North Carolina.

A public comment period is required by law to give the public time to address the proposed 42.2 percent rate increase.

All public comments will be shared with the North Carolina Rate Bureau.

If North Carolina Department of Insurance officials do not agree with the requested rates, the rates will either be denied or negotiated with the North Carolina Rate Bureau. If a settlement cannot be reached within 50 days, Department of Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey will call for a hearing. The rate increase could go into effect starting on Aug. 1

RELATED: Click here for list of rate hikes sought by firms in counties and towns in North Carolina.

Below are the ways to provide public comments in-person or virtually on Monday:

A public comment forum will be held to listen to public input on the North Carolina Rate Bureaus rate increase request at the North Carolina Department of Insurances Jim Long Hearing Room on Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Jim Long Hearing Room is in the Albemarle Building, 325 N. Salisbury St., Raleigh, N.C. 27603.

A virtual public comment forum will be held simultaneously with the in-person forum on Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The link to this virtual forum will be: https://ncgov.webex.com/ncgov/j.php?MTID=mb3fe10c8f69bbedd2aaece485915db7e

There are also other ways to provide feedback:

Emailed public comments should be sent by Feb. 2 to an email at NCDOI.2024Homeowners@ncdoi.gov



Written public comments must be received by Kimberly W. Pearce, Paralegal III, by Feb. 2 and addressed to 1201 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1201.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.
Last week, the Campaign Legal Center, a voting rights and ethics advocacy group, disclosed what it considered a potentially promisingbut extraordinarily opaqueone-sentence line in a newly released report from the Judicial Conference of the United States.

The Judicial Conference is, according to investigative journalists at ProPublica, a body of federal judges led by the chief justice of the Supreme Court. It oversees the ethics and financial disclosures for more than 1,700 federal judges, including the nine justices of the high court.

The noteworthy line that the Campaign Legal Center highlighted came from the Judicial Conferences Financial Disclosure Committee. It stated that there was an ongoing review of public written allegations of errors or omissions in a filers financial disclosure reports.

The filer was presumed to be Justice Clarence Thomas.

For people concerned that codes of judicial ethics, like the one recently adopted by the Supreme Court, are meaningful, what the Financial Disclosure Committee said could be a promising momentand bad news for Thomas, one of the most ethically challenged justices in Supreme Court history. But the Judicial Conferences history of holding Supreme Court justices to account is not a proud one.

As ProPublica has reported, the conference has been less a toothy watchdog than a subservient arm of the court. Members of the conferences staffmany of whom are tempshave hardly been relentless inquirers into court misconduct. By role and tradition, theyve been less intimidating than chickens in charge of the fox den.

Indeed, their investigatory history appears to be one of whitewashing scandals at the court.

And they are not alone in this lethargy. An NBC News review of states judicial conduct commission data from 20162020 found that thousands of complaints are filed across the country every year but that about 1 percent of them result in judges being publicly disciplined or stepping down after investigations are opened.

So the jury is out on whether what Thomas has done will be enough to alter the usual pattern. That is why journalists, activists like those at the Campaign Legal Center, and the public must keep a vigilant eye on any potential follow-up.

Heres the background on the current Thomas affair. In April and August, in the wake of ProPublicas lengthy investigative news reporting about the justices apparent corruption, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and other congressional representatives sent two letters to the Judicial Conference.

They asked that body to refer to the attorney general Thomas repeated errors in filing his financial disclosure forms. The conference has the authority to do so.

And it should. The ProPublica articles had set out a list of undisclosed lavish giftsincluding dozens of all-expenses-paid exotic travelthat went from here to Bora Bora.

Thats without even getting into the subsidies for Thomas wife, Ginni, orchestrated through Thomas close friend Leonard Leo, the onetime head of the Federalist Society and frequent matchmaker between Thomas and right-wing donors.

Meanwhile, what the Judicial Conference said in its oblique reference to Thomas is different from its past reactions to his ethical lapses. Indeed, according to the Campaign Legal Center, the last time it received letters regarding Justice Thomas apparent willful violations of [the Ethics in Government Act] for failing to disclose private plane travel, back in 2011, the Judicial Conference completely ignored them.

And last May, District Judge Mark Wolf, an appointee of President Ronald Reagan, disclosed that as a member of the Judicial Conference in 2012, he did not even receive notice of the complaints submitted about Thomas at the time.

Those complaints arose from media reporting in 2011 that Thomas had not properly disclosed income that Ginni, as CNN chronicled, had received between 1998 and 2003 from The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank.

Wolf hadnt learned of the submitted complaints at the time because the staff kept them from the full conference membership. As he explained:

Pursuant to established conference policies and procedures, if the [financial disclosure] committee had considered the letters, my colleagues on the Judicial Conference and I should have been informed of them in its reports to the Conference, even if the committee was not recommending any action by the Conference.

Everyone concerned about Thomas conduct should worry that the past will be prologue and we will witness another cover-up. Indeed, in the decade that followed the Judicial Conferences 2012 see-no-evil approach, Thomas, having gotten away withmetaphorically speakingethical manslaughter, became a one-man ethics crime spree.

Its been a master class in corrupt governance: Choke transparency while surrounding yourself with subservient institutions that give the appearance of accountability while providing a fig leaf for those who use their power to line their pockets. We have had a court, ironically enough, that uses a self-policing system of subordinates to treat itself as above the law.

In the end, it will take brave journalists like those at ProPublica, committed activists like those at the Campaign Legal Center, and ordinary citizens speaking out if we want to return the court to an ethical center of the kind needed to restore its legitimacy.
 Flash

A girl walks past destroyed buildings at Jabalia refugee camp, northern Gaza Strip, on Jan. 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Nearly 9,000 people, according to the police, participated in a march in Brussels on Sunday, demanding concrete measures from Belgium to establish an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ensure justice for the Palestinian people.

As the current president of the Council of the European Union (EU), Belgium is called upon to play a central role in promoting a fair solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On Monday, the EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in the Middle East in Brussels. The 27 EU foreign ministers will meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz before separate talks with the top diplomat of the Palestinian Authority, Riyad al-Maliki.

The mobilization on this Sunday was initiated by a diverse coalition of Belgian civil society organizations, including major NGOs. The organizers, advocating for peace, warned against any promotion of war crimes, attacks on civilians, anti-Semitism, or racism.

According to the organizers, in the past three months, over 24,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children have lost their lives. Nearly 1.9 million people have been forcibly displaced, and a significant portion of civil infrastructure has been completely destroyed.
(Bloomberg) -- A Florida bill backed by the states chief financial officer would create a $5 million fund to help pay for former President Donald Trumps mounting legal fees.

Most Read from Bloomberg

State Senator Ileana Garcia, a Republican, has filed a proposal to create the Freedom Fighters Fund, which would provide financial support for Florida residents running for president who face legal action. Trump, who is seeking a second term, lives in the Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.

The proposal, which still must clear multiple committees, underscores the broader fealty of Republicans to Trump as leader of the party. It comes a day after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his struggling White House campaign and endorsed the former president.

Hubris, Infighting, Awkward Moments: How DeSantis 2024 Unraveled

If we can help and support a Florida candidate for the White House, thats just good from a dollars and cents perspective, said Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis in an emailed statement supporting the bill.

Patronis, a former lawmaker who has served as Floridas CFO since 2017, has led some of the states biggest attacks on finance, including cutting BlackRock Inc. out of some state funds because of its support for investments that consider a companys environmental, social and corporate governance policies. He endorsed Trump less than an hour after DeSantis dropped out.

Trump faces an unprecedented legal onslaught, with 91 felony charges in four separate cases. They range from conspiring to defraud the US in his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to falsifying business records to cover up hush money paid to an adult film actress.

How Trumps Candidacy Tests the US Constitution: QuickTake

The proposed $5 million for the new fund would come from the states public campaign-matching funds program, which would later be replenished from voluntary donations via drivers license registrations, according to Patronis.

--With assistance from Anna Kaiser.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
City and county boards would face a higher threshold for approving property tax hikes, under a proposal that started moving forward Monday in the Legislature.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

In a 15-7 vote, the House Ways & Means Committee backed a bill (HB 1195) that would require two-thirds votes by city, county, and special district governing boards to approve increases in millage rates, which represent dollars assessed per $1,000 in property value.

I think this bill strikes a nice balance between allowing local governments the ability to get the revenue necessary to provide core services, but also making it clear that if youre going to raise the property taxes you better have a darn good reason, House bill sponsor Sam Garrison, R-Fleming Island, said.

Rep. Jeff Holcomb, R-Spring Hill, expressed reservations about the measure taking powers away from a duly elected official but voted for the bill.

My county that I served in, and probably many counties, run pretty lean, said Holcomb, who previously served as a member of the Hernando County Commission. My concern is, how do you improve your parks? How do you fix your roads?

Rep. Anna Eskamani, an Orlando Democrat who voted against the bill, said shed like to see it softened, as lawmakers consider many bills tightening our grip over local governments.

I have a lot of concerns where I see many bills that kind of have similar intentions passing at the same time because it just creates a scenario where local governments are inevitably going to fail, Eskamani said.

Most local boards need simple majority votes to approve property tax increases to help fund their annual budgets.

Under the bill, two-thirds votes would not be required when tax rates remain the same but property owners pay more because of increased values.

Supporters of a higher threshold say they want to keep taxes low. Garrison said his goal is to protect the interests of working men and women of this state.

The Florida Constitution includes maximum millage rates that can be set by local governments, except in special districts. It sets 10-mill limits for counties, cities, and school boards.

The Florida League of Cities and the Florida Association of Counties have not taken a stand on Garrisons proposal.

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Local governments are given an incentive to not use all the (taxing) capacity they have in a given year, under the current system, said Bob McKee, deputy director of public policy for the Florida Association Counties. There is a savings piece, so that if they choose not to go up to the entirety of what law would allow under a majority vote  they get to save that capacity, potentially use that in a future year. Were concerned this provision may give different incentives to local governments in terms of how they behave.

The Senate Community Affairs Committee was scheduled late Monday afternoon to take up the Senate version of the bill (SB 1322), sponsored by Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill.

A House analysis suggested the Legislature might need two-thirds votes to approve the proposal. The state Constitution requires two-thirds votes by the Legislature when mandating changes that would reduce local government authority to raise revenues.

In 2018, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment that requires supermajority approval in both the House and Senate when seeking an increase involving taxes or fees.

The issue was put on the ballot as polling was close in the governors race during Republican Ron DeSantis first run for governor. At the time, opponents complained the intent was to stack the deck in case a Democrat took office.

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A plan to deter people from excessively challenging books in school libraries is moving through the Florida House.

The bill would fine people for each objection they file after the first five.

The fees would apply to any parent or resident who doesnt have a child in the school where the book is located.

Read: Nearly 700 books pulled from OCPS teachers classrooms

Districts would have to return the money if the objection is approved.

Florida House staff say in the 2022-2023 year, there were more than 1,200 material objections.

Watch: Nearly 1,600 books facing book bans nationwide

Of those only 386 books ended up being removed.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
The Florida State University community is still remembering the esteemed retired professor Myra Hurt after she died last August. She was 75.

To continue celebrating Hurts life, FSU's College of Medicine will be holding a tribute 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27, in the colleges Durell Peaden Auditorium, 1115 W. Call St. The event is open to the public.

Dr. Hurt is literally referred to as the mother of the College of Medicine, the medical school's interim dean, Dr. Alma Littles, told the Tallahassee Democrat. You cant really say FSU College of Medicine without thinking of Dr. Myra Hurt.

Dr. Alma Littles was named interim dean of the Florida State University College of Medicine.

Other FSU news: With lawmakers back in town, whats on FSU, FAMU, TCCs state budget wish list?

A Hot Springs, Arkansas, native, Hurt also was known as the architect of the universitys College of Medicine because of her vision in 1993 for the college to be created.

As a state lawmaker, former FSU President John Thrasher was a key supporter of funding that helped bring about the institution; a building at the college is named in his honor. But it was Hurts vision and determination led to the colleges establishment in 2000 under then-FSU President Sandy DAlemberte.

She became a founding faculty member at the medical school as well as the first acting FSU College of Medicine dean from August 2000 to July 2001.

The Women Among Us Collaborative was saddened to hear of the Aug. 26, 2023, passing of Dr. Myra Hurt, who was affectionately known as the mother of the FSU College of Medicine. The exhibit, opening on Sept. 28, 2023, is dedicated to Hurt, one of 20 women featured.

Before Hurt joined FSU  where she started off as a visiting professor in the Department of Chemistry in 1985  she earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Henderson State University, a master's degree in biology from The University of Memphis and a doctoral degree in microbiology from the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences-Memphis.

During her time at FSU, she moved through various roles that included being senior associate dean of Student Affairs as well as senior associate dean of the university's Research and Graduate Programs. While serving as the College of Medicine's senior associate dean for Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, Hurt retired in January 2020.

Her impact consisted of fostering the development of a vigorous research program at FSUs College of Medicine, which included the Clinical Research Network, the College Translational Science Laboratory and the collaboration with the University of Florida Clinical Translational Science Institute.

All of Hurts efforts to propel FSU's medical school forward did not go unnoticed.

FSU College of Medicine will hold a celebration of life event honoring Professor Emerita Myra Hurt on Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Among countless awards, Hurt was honored with the Westcott Medal  FSUs highest distinction  the Jim King Leadership Award and the American Medical Womens Associations Women in Science Award.

Littles explained that although Hurts family held a funeral service for Hurt when she passed away in August, she believes it is only right for a tribute to be paid in her honor on the universitys campus as well.

Were doing this celebration because we feel that its really important to remember her legacy here at the College of Medicine, Littles said. Her fingerprints are all over this building and all over the work of the college.

A reception will follow the celebration of Hurts life, which will also be held at the Peaden Auditorium.

Contact Tarah Jean at tjean@tallahassee.com or follow her on X: @tarahjean_.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FSU College of Medicine to honor Myra Hurt, instrumental in founding
The U.S. Forest Service has rescinded its approval of plans to build 12 miles of rail through protected Utah woodlands  stopping a large-scale crude oil conveyance project in its tracks.

The 12-mile segment, which would have run through northeastern Utahs Ashley National Forest, was a key component of the proposed Uinta Basin Railway  an 88-mile stretch of rail that would run alongside the Colorado River.

The project would serve to connect Utah fossil fuel producers to the larger national railway network and ultimately enable these sites to sell their resources to Gulf of Mexico refineries.

But officials across the border in Colorado, as well as environmental groups, have long lambasted the plan  citing potential risks of catastrophic oil spills adjacent to a river that serves as the lifeblood of the U.S. West.

The Forest Services withdrawal of its approval follows an August U.S. Court of Appeals decision that overturned the projects authorization and deemed its required environmental impact statement (EIS) in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

That authorization, as well as the problematic EIS, were the products of the Surface Transportation Board  an independent federal entity that regulates certain railroad issues.

The August ruling, which occurred in response to a petition filed by Eagle County, Colo., and local organizations, determined that the EIS violated NEPA protocols from several angles.

The decision cited deficiencies in quantifying foreseeable upstream and downstream impacts on vegetation and in accounting for oil refining impacts on Gulf Coast environmental justice communities.

The EIS also did not take a hard look at wildfire risk as well as impacts on water resources downline, while additionally failing to provide sufficient information on local accident risk, per the ruling.

Utahs Seven County Infrastructure Coalition, a public interlocal partner in the rail project, petitioned the August ruling, but the court in December declined a rehearing on the subject.

Susan Eickhoff, supervisor of Ashley National Forest, attributed the Forest Services decision to revoke its approval to the fact that the court had vacated both the EIS and a biological opinion prepared by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

If the deficiencies are addressed and resubmitted for consideration, the Forest Service may issue a new decision, Eickhoff wrote.

The withdrawal was met with widespread enthusiasm among the environmental organizations and politicians who had spearheaded the fight against the railroad.

Two Colorado Democrats  Sen. Michael Bennet and Rep. Joe Neguse  applauded the decision as a pivotal move toward protecting the Colorado River and those who depend upon it.

A derailment along the headwaters of the Colorado River could have catastrophic effects for Colorados communities, water, and environment, Bennet said in a statement.

Neguse, meanwhile, described the Forest Services decision as instrumental in avoiding the dangers that accompany this project.

The withdrawal, he explained, serves to help Coloradans preserve the states water supplies, wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation assets, and the broader River Basin.

Ingrid Wussow, mayor of the nearby city of Glenwood Springs, emphasized the importance of preventing this potentially devastating project from moving forward.

This project had the potential of creating an environmental disaster that would have impacted the water source for over 40 million Americans, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Seemingly forgetting what happened when Nazi Germany carved up Czechoslovakia in 1938, Slovak Prime Minister said Ukraine must give up part of its territory to Russia in order to end the war, Fico said on Slovak public broadcaster RTVS on Jan. 20.

There must be some compromise..., said Fico. What are they waiting for, the Russians to leave Crimea, Donbas, and Luhansk? That's unrealistic.

Read also: Slovakia backs Hungarys stance to block EUs financial aid to Ukraine

Fico repeated Russian propaganda narratives, claiming that Ukraine is supposedly not an independent and sovereign country but under the full influence and control of the United States.

The pro-Russian prime minister came to power in December 2023 after his left-populist party Smer won the September elections. He has promised to stop arms supplies to Ukraine, block its potential NATO membership, and oppose sanctions against Russia.

Read also: Slovak president calls for arming Ukraine following recent Russian attacks

A meeting between Fico and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal is scheduled to take place in Uzhhorod on Jan. 24. Fico intends to reaffirm his opposition to Ukraine's NATO membership during this meeting.

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
Oleksiy Reznikov was the Minister of Defense of Ukraine in 2021-2023

It is no coincidence that former Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov decided to resume his legal practice, as it complicates the task of law enforcement investigating his ministerial tenure, Yuriy Nikolov, editor of the Nashi Hroshi project, told NV Radio on Jan. 21.

To date, no Ukrainian law enforcement agency has made formal legal claims against Reznikov personally. For example, the former minister is not involved in the case of inflated food procurement prices for the Ukrainian military  the ultimate cause of Reznikovs resignation.

"This case is being investigated by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau," Nikolov said.

Read also: Ukrainian scheme to evade conscription uncovered by State Bureau of Investigations

It's been going on for a year now, and there is no end in sight.

Only Reznikovs former subordinates are persons of interest in the investigation of several procurement corruption cases at the Defense Ministry. Nevertheless, he decided to play it safe, Nikolov suggested.

Read also: Ukraine had enough resources for 2.5 months of active fighting in February 2022  Reznikov

"I think Reznikov understands that accusations [against him] will arise sooner or later, and renewing his legal practice license means that he is now making it harder for law enforcement to get to him," the journalist said.

Opening a case against a lawyer is the prerogative of the Prosecutor General; it's not so easy [to do].

Reznikov suspended his license to practice law in March 2020, immediately after his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister.

Read also: Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov returns to legal practice

The Ukrainian parliament dismissed Reznikov as Defense Minister on Sept. 5, 2023. He had been heading the department since November 2021.

The National Bar Association of Ukraine renewed Reznikov's legal practice license on Jan. 16.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The former Cudahy Kmart building/lot at 6077 South Packard Avenue is up for sale. The Mid-America listing is asking $3.2 million for the property.

The former Cudahy Kmart building is up for sale and the parking lot could transform to host multiple businesses.

Mid-America Real Estate  Wisconsin has listed the property at 6077 S. Packard Ave. for $3.2 million. The property owner is Transformco.

The site includes the 116,142-square-foot building built in 1971 with one loading dock and 657 surface parking spaces on a total of 6.39 acres.

The sales materials identify the potential to create four outlots/pad sites in the existing parking lot from 0.5 acres up to 2.5 acres each. Each space could host a separate building and business.

One potential issue could be parking, depending on the size and number of new businesses that could potentially take over the outlots. City Administrator Casey Griffiths said since there are no specifics yet in terms of the proposed use, he cant comment yet on how much parking space the city would require.

Use of the citys Planned Unit Development Overlay district may also aid in the creation of joint parking spaces between businesses or other uses, such as multi-family residential, Griffiths said.

The plan commission does have authority to adjust the number of required parking spaces for a project if a developer has shown their parking demands will be lower than what code requires or if there is enough shared or street parking.

Cudahy has not been contacted by the owner or broker of the site, nor any potential buyers, since the Mid-America listing went live, according to Griffiths. The city is working to get in contact with the broker to offer any assistance needed.

Our planning staff has just done a very brief review of the materials that Mid-America has posted and didnt see any concern with the concept, but obviously any proposed division of land or new building(s) would need to be reviewed and approved by the city, Griffiths said.

The closing of Kmart, what came after and what could come

The Cudahy Kmart, 6077 S. Packard Ave., closed in February 2019. The store employed 75 people.

The Cudahy Kmart, the last of the retail chain operating in Milwaukee County, closed in 2019. Sears Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2018 while closing hundreds of stores.

U-Haul proposed creating a storage retail center on the site in October 2019, but the city rejected the proposal which would have required a rezoning of the property. Cudahy Mayor Tom Pavlic said at the time we have enough storage facilities.

Since Kmarts closure, the building has been used as a COVID-19 vaccination site in early 2021, it was a Sears Hometown store for less than a year, and It has also been an annual Spirit Halloween store.

The property is currently zoned B-2 Community Business District. Cudahys zoning code lists 58 types of uses or businesses that are permitted in this district. They include antique stores, art galleries, banks, bakeries, barber/beauty shops, bookstores, clinics, catering services, professional offices, taverns, cocktail lounges, grocery stores, hobby/craft shops, fitness centers, restaurants and theaters.

Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The old Kmart property in Cudahy has been listed for $3.2 million
Salt Lake City District Attorney David Yocom is pictured in this 2004 file photo as he announces the charges against Mark Hacking during a press conference as prosecuting attorney Robert Stott looks on. Yocom, whose legal career spanned more than four decades, has died. | Chris Bergin, Deseret News

Retired Salt Lake County District Attorney David E. Yocom has died. He was in his mid-80s.

Yocom and his office prosecuted some of the most high-profile defendants in Utah history such as serial killer Ted Bundy, counterfeiter, forger and murderer Mark Hofmann and murderous polygamist Ervil LeBaron.

The Bundy case attracted international attention, Yocom said in a 2006 interview prior to his retirement.

It was the first time hed gone on trial for anything, he said.

Bundy was not prosecuted for murder in Utah but was charged with kidnapping Carol DaRonch from the Fashion Place Mall parking lot after posing as a police officer to lure her into his car in the mid-1970s. Despite having one wrist trapped in Bundys handcuffs, DaRonch managed to fling herself out of his moving car and get away.

Our case was solid enough to file and go to trial on, Yocom said in the 2006 interview. The jury returned the first several of what would be many felony convictions for Bundy, who was executed in Florida in 1989 after a murderous rampage in several states.

The Utah victory was short-lived, however. Bundy soon after escaped from a Colorado jail where he was awaiting a murder trial and, tragically, managed to elude police long enough to kill several more people before being convicted of murder and executed 14 years after his Utah conviction.

Salt Lake District Attorney David Yocom pictured in this December 2006 file photo just as he retired from a long legal career, including 16 years at the D. A.s office. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News

Yocom also worked in private practice during his long legal career.

He defended serial killer and white supremacist Joseph Paul Franklin, who shot and killed two Black men who were jogging with white women near Liberty Park in 1980.

Franklin had previous federal charges of violating the civil rights of the two Black men he killed but he was also charged with state charges, which carried the death penalty.

It was pretty difficult, Yocom said in the 2006 Deseret News interview. The whole objective of this was to enforce the death penalty.

Franklin was found guilty of two counts of aggravated murder but the jury could not agree during the penalty phase, so he was sentenced to two more life sentences.

Salt Lake Countys current District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement that it was an honor to work with Yocom.

He not only inspired me as a young prosecutor but served as an example and mentor for me and hundreds of Salt Lake County deputy district attorneys over his long tenure in office, he said.

David was an advocate for bringing the district attorneys office closer to the courts to help the two entities work together more efficiently, a vision that I was honored to help see through to its completion. David spoke his mind, never shied away from tough cases and made a positive difference in this community, Gill said.

The district attorneys office experienced tremendous growth during Yocoms service. In the late 1960s, there were seven deputy district attorneys and support staff. By his retirement, the office has a staff of more than 200 people, including 89 lawyers, investigators, paralegals and victim counselors.

In 2004, Yocoms office hired a special prosecutor to prosecute then-Salt Lake County Mayor Nancy Workman or second- and third-degree felony counts of allegedly misusing $17,000 in county money when she secretly hired a pair of employees who worked directly for her daughter Aisza, the financial manager at the Boys and Girls Club.

Workman, the countys first mayor, was acquitted in February 2005, after more than seven months of investigation. Workman was forced to go on administrative leave as mayor during the ordeal. She withdrew from her reelection bid to fight the charges and survived a six-day trial in which a jury declared her not guilty.

At the time, Yocom was criticized for abusing his authority, but in the 2006 interview upon his retirement, he expressed no regrets about any cases his office had filed or tried.

Yocoms law career spanned from the 1960s until the early 2000s. Voters first elected him Salt Lake County District Attorney in 1986. He was reelected in 1990 and lost his reelection in 1994. He returned to serve two additional terms as district attorney from 1998-2006.

He was a 1965 graduate of the University of Utah College of Law.

Yocom is survived by his wife, Linda, four sons, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
NEENAH  Longtime Neenah residents will recognize a familiar name on the ballot in the Feb. 20 primary election for Common Council.

Mark Ellis is among the candidates in District 1, along with Brian Roeh and Kristen Sandvick, vying to succeed incumbent John Skyrms, who didn't seek reelection.

Ellis served on the Neenah council from 1981 to 1987 and from 1993 to 1998. He ran for Neenah mayor three times, losing to incumbent Marigen Carpenter in 1990 and 1994 and to Ken Harwood in 1998.

Now he's seeking a third stint on the council 26 years after his last one. His approach to the primary election is decidedly old-school. He doesn't plan to put up yard signs, mail fliers or post on social media.

"I have no social media or Facebook and dont plan having one," Ellis said. "I believe in real face-to-face communication."

Roeh and Sandvick also will be recognizable to Neenah voters.

Roeh ran for the Neenah School Board in 2023, finishing sixth in a six-person race for three seats.

Sandvick ran for Neenah council in 2022. She survived a three-way primary election before losing to incumbent Kathie Boyette by 10 votes.

The League of Women Voters of Winnebago County will sponsor a forum for the three candidates at 6 p.m. Feb. 8 at City Hall, 211 Walnut St. The candidates will respond to questions from the audience.

The top two finishers in the primary will advance to the April 2 election, and the winner of the nonpartisan race will earn a three-year term on the council.

As part of The Post-Crescent's election coverage, Ellis, Roeh and Sandvick were asked to complete a questionnaire to explain why they're running for office, what makes them the better candidate and how they would address the most important issues facing the city. Their answers are published below.

For information about registering to vote and polling locations, visit the MyVote Wisconsin website at myvote.wi.gov/en-us.

Related: Plan to bring Mexican restaurant to Doty Island falls apart at 11th hour

Mark Ellis

Mark Ellis

Address: 218 Clybourn St.

Age: 67

Occupation: Retired

Highest education: Studied political science and marketing for two years at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Relevant experience: Neenah alderman for 11 years; vice president of the Neenah council; and past board member of the Neenah-Menasha YWCA (now YMCA), Youth Go, Future Neenah Development Corp., Future Neenah Inc., United Community Services Inc. and Beaming Inc.

Campaign website: None

Brian Roeh

Brian Roeh

Address: 146 Hazel St.

Age: 42

Occupation: Maintenance technical support manager at Air Wisconsin Airlines

Highest education: Bachelor's degree in aviation maintenance management from Southern Illinois University

Relevant experience: Years of managing projects and creating and adhering to multimillion-dollar budgets

Campaign website: BrianRoeh.com

Kristen Sandvick

Kristen Sandvick

Address: 312 Caroline St.

Age: 37

Occupation: Stay-at-home parent, homeschool teacher, growth and development teacher

Highest education: Bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

Relevant experience: I interned with Coulee Region Mediation and Restorative Justice, where I learned skills on conflict resolution and mediation. I spent nearly two years as a Wisconsin Works (W-2) coordinator in Monroe County. I have community engagement experience as a La Leche League leader and as a homeschool co-op administrator for the past eight years.

Campaign website: www.facebook.com/ksandvickforneenahcitycouncil

Why are you running for office?

Ellis: Now that I'm retired, I would like to work with the mayor, council and department heads to continue the fine work they are doing.

Roeh: There are projects that don't make financial or common sense to me. For example, we're spending three-quarters of a million dollars planning the pedestrian bridge to Arrowhead Park. Who is this bridge is being built for? Currently there aren't even amenities such as bathrooms to be utilized on this land.

Editor's note: Neenah budgeted $700,000 in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act for "Arrowhead/Waterfront District design/beginning of construction." The money has not been allocated or spent.

Sandvick: I love this community. I have lived here for most of my life, and I believe that it is a great place to live. Historically, Neenah has been a place where people have wanted to live and raise their children, and with good leadership, it can continue to be.

What makes you the better candidate in this race?

Ellis: I don't believe one candidate is necessarily better than another. I believe Neenah will be in good hands with anyone who wishes to serve the city.

Roeh: I promise to come to the council meetings prepared to address everything on the agenda and to keep the best interests of the Neenah residents as my primary focus.

Sandvick: As your alderperson, I will actively seek out opinions on local issues from my district's residents and small businesses. I will prioritize finding solutions that benefit our district and the greater community.

What are residents telling you are their most important issues, and how would you address them?

Ellis: The folks I have spoken with are all pretty pleased with Neenah and its growth. I wish to continue that direction.

Roeh: Many people are concerned about how their tax dollars are being spent. They want to focus on priorities and not pet projects. I am going to be a presence on the council who will ask the questions that are not being asked now. Does this project serve the people of Neenah? Why this project and not another? How will this impact the current and future budgets?

Sandvick: While canvassing, I heard concerns about where the city is spending money. There were concerns about unsafe roadways, parking downtown and pedestrian crossings. People also wanted to know if there would be any developments along First Street on Doty Island, specifically, if Doty Island could get a Kwik Trip. One resident suggested we could consider having West Wisconsin Avenue become pedestrian only. This idea reminded me of a street from my time in Hong Kong which was pedestrian only at peak times. I look forward to bringing creative problem-solving to our city council.

Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DukeBehnke.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Meet the Neenah Common Council candidates in District 1 primary
Linguist and former Ukrainian MP Iryna Farion has criticized the conduct of State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) operatives during the arrest of Roman Hrynkevych, the son of Lviv businessman Ihor Hrynkevych, on Jan. 22.

In a video released by the SBI, an officer addresses Hrynkevych in Russian.

"Why the hell is the person who is detaining Hrynkevych speaking the enemy language?" Farion wrote in a Telegram post.

Was he detained by [the Russians]? Or does the law not apply to the police?

State Language Protection Commissioner Taras Kremin also reacted to the incident. In a comment to news outlet Hromadske, he said that he was awaiting a response from the SBI.

"We are collecting additional materials, and in the meantime, we hope for an official comment from the Bureau," he said.

Read also: Roman Hrynkevych arrested while attempting to illegally cross the border

I think they should also explain thisas a matter of priority.

The commissioners website states that, according to current legislation, law enforcement officials must use Ukrainian when carrying out official duties.

Farion was previously involved in a scandal when she said she couldnt describe AFU troops who speak Russian as Ukrainian soldiers. These comments provoked a wave of criticism from the public and the military. On Nov. 15, 2023, Farion was dismissed from her position as a professor at Lviv Polytechnic National University.

Read also: Video of Roman Hrynkevych arrest in Odesa for trying to flee capture was released by SBI

The SBI reported that Roman Hrynkevych was detained in Odesa during an attempt to illegally cross the border.

Hrynkevych Jr. was put on the wanted list on Jan. 18, suspected of involvement in the supply of low-quality goods to the Ukrainian military. His father, Ihor Hrynkevych, was detained in December 2023 and later charged with corruption in supplying the Defense Ministry with substandard clothing and uniforms. Roman Hrynkevych is the registered owner of one of the companies involved in the case.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Former Salt Lake County District Attorney David Yocom, known for his successful prosecutions in many high-profile Utah cases including Ted Bundy, died this week, according to the DAs office.

Current SLCo DA Sim Gill announced Yocoms passing on Monday, Jan. 22, calling the former DA a long-time friend and colleague.

Yocoms law career spanned several decades with four terms as Salt Lake Countys District Attorney. He was first elected into the office in 1986 and won re-election in 1990. He lost re-election in 1994 but came back to serve two more terms from 1998 to 2006.

New details released on woman killed, left by Millcreek dumpster

As District Attorney, Yocom oversaw hundreds of notorious criminal cases, including Mark Hoffman and Mark Hacking. Yocom is described as a man who loved being the DA and led by example through his passion for law, victim rights, and those moving through the legal system.

It was an honor to work with David as the District Attorney. He not only inspired me as a young prosecutor but served as an example and mentor for me and hundreds of Salt Lake County Deputy District Attorneys over his long tenure in office, said Gill.

Yocom studied at the University of Utah and worked as a private practice attorney before becoming Salt Lake Countys District Attorney. While he was practicing law, he successfully prosecuted Ted Bundy of aggravated kidnapping in 1976  the first time Bundy had been convicted and sentenced to prison. Yocom also handled the successful prosecution of Ervil LeBaron for ordering the murder of polygamist leader Dr. Rullon Allred.

Tooele man jailed for allegedly killing neighbors cat

Aside from his prosecution work, Yocom also worked as a defense counsel, notably for white supremacist Joseph Paul Franklin for the double murder of two African American men who were killed while jogging in Liberty Park. The District Attorneys Office said the case could ruin a career but Yocom did his job to uphold the law and do everything he could to guarantee a fair trial.

David was an advocate for bringing the DAs office closer to the courts to help the two entities work together more efficiently, a vision that I was honored to help see through to its completion, said Gill. David spoke his mind, never shied away from tough cases and made a positive difference in this community.

David Yocom is survived by his wife, four sons, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Fort Mose State Park hosts groundbreaking ceremony to begin fort reconstruction

Fort Mose Groundbreaking Ceremony

The Fort Mose Historical Society and the Florida State Parks Foundation hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, Jan. 19, to begin building a full-scale replica of the original fort built in Fort Mose Historic State Park, Americas first legally sanctioned free Black community.

Sidling the marshlands feet away from St. Augustines welcome gates, fort construction is scheduled to begin this Spring and be completed by years end.

Today marks a historic moment in our journey to preserve and celebrate our states and our nations rich cultural heritage," said Julia Gill Woodward, Florida State Parks Foundations CEO, in a press release. The Fort Mose groundbreaking ceremony signifies a commitment to fostering a deep connection between our past and present. This project is a tribute to the enduring spirit of community and the profound importance of preserving our shared history.

Charles Ellis, president of the Fort Mose Historical Society, described the reconstruction as a tribute to the resiliency and determination of those who made the first free Black settlement a possibility.

The Fort Mose Historical Society is honored to have played a pivotal role in launching this project, providing the public with an opportunity to consider the true value of freedom, he said in the release. With the community's support, we embark on a journey to create a dynamic space where the echoes of the past will resonate in the hearts and minds of all who visit.

St. Augustines Fort Mose history is among the many threads woven within the tapestry of the history of Americas oldest city. Historical documents show that slaves first began arriving by foot and dugout canoes to Spanish-ruled St. Augustine in 1687, seeking refuge from British colonial enslavement.

By 1693, Spains king, Carlos II, granted freedom to all individuals seeking freedom from British colonial rule in St. Augustine. As word of the chance of freedom spread, slaves continued to arrive, despite what history describes as a journey of treacherous proportions.

By 1738, Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose,  Fort Mose  had become a sanctuary for former slaves who pledged their allegiance to Spain and the Catholic Church while guarding northern St. Augustine against British invaders.

In 1740, the fort was captured by the British during the Battle of Bloody Mose, but not before its inhabitants safely evacuated to the Castillo de San Marcos.

Documents show that while Fort Moses Free Black Militia, along with Spanish and native troops, won the battle, the fort was destroyed. The forts inhabitants peacefully assimilated into the surrounding region.

As remnants of first fort drowned into the marshlands, in 1752, a new fort was built within proximity of its original location. Then. in 1763, Spain ceded Florida to the British. Now under threat of enslavement, most of the forts residents fled to Spanish Cuba.

The fort was refurbished and subsequently abandoned by the British before it too was swallowed by salt marshlands.

Documents show that in the mid 1980s, working in tandem with a team of archeologists and researchers, Kathleen Deagan and Jane Landers authenticated the forts location through historical documents, thermal and satellite imaging, aerial photographs, and artifacts.

Deagan is a distinguished research curator of archaeology and adjunct professor of anthropology and history at the University of Floridas Florida Museum of Natural History and Landers is a Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Professor of History and director of the Slave Societies Digital Archive at Vanderbilt University.

In 1989, the 41-acre area was acquired by the state of Florida and became Fort Mose Historic State Park. In 1994, Fort Mose was added to the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Founded in 1996, the Fort Mose Historical Society set their sights on sharing the story of Fort Mose Historic State Park. The reconstruction project was launched in 2012.

In 2019, Fort Mose was designated as a UNESCO Site of Memory for the Routes of Enslaved Peoples Project.

The Florida Department of States Florida African-American Cultural & Historical Grant Opportunity awarded The Florida State Parks Foundation a $933,000 grant for the forts reconstruction.

Collaborative contributions were also made through the Florida Park Service; St. Johns County; The Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation; The St. Augustine Amphitheatres Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series; The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund; The Lastinger Family Foundation; Florida Power & Light; The Bailey Group; Wells Fargo; Northrop Grumman; Florida Blue; and The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.

By November 2023 the project had successfully raised the estimated $3 million needed for construction.

We are excited to break ground at Fort Mose after so many years of hard work and dedication, said Chuck Hatcher, Floridas Park Services director, in the release. The fort reconstruction will provide a remarkable experience for visitors from around the world, and we are grateful for everyone who has helped bring this project to life.

Click here for more information on Fort Mose Historic State Park.

This article originally appeared on St. Augustine Record: Fort Mose begins fort reconstruction in the historic State Park
In a bid to withhold information on police procedures from the Star-Telegram and other North Texas news organizations, the City of Fort Worth has filed a lawsuit against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton after his office said records about police policy on vehicle pursuits had to be released.

Star-Telegram reporter Harriet Ramos in April 2023 filed an open records request with the Fort Worth Police Department for a copy of its official general orders. The Star-Telegram submitted a more specific request on July 7, 2023, seeking only the departments policy on making decisions about when to initiate, continue or call off a vehicle pursuit. The request came after two people, including a teenage girl, were killed in separate police chases over the summer.

In July, Andra Craig, 57, was killed when his vehicle was hit by a police SUV involved in a pursuit, ejecting him from the vehicle. Craig was a bystander and was not involved in the chase.

The teenager, a 15-year-old girl, was killed in June while she was a passenger in a truck being pursued by police that crashed into a pole during the chase.

In response to both requests, the city asked Paxton for permission to withhold the records under the Texas Homeland Security Act.

Paxtons office, which reviews requests by governments in Texas to withhold information requested under the Texas Public Information Act, determined that the official general orders were public record and needed to be released with some portions exempted. The office said in one ruling that the city failed to demonstrate how the information fell under the Texas Homeland Security Acts protections of information for public release.

His office also noted, as the city acknowledged in its request to withhold documents, that the city violated the public information act when it did not comply with the mandated time limitations for responding to an open records request.

The law allows the governments to release the information or seek permission to withhold records as soon as possible and allows no more than 10 business days to do so. Failure to request permission to withhold records within that time period creates a legal presumption that the requested documents are public records.

The initial Star-Telegram request was followed by similar requests from the Fort Worth Report and CBS, according to the lawsuit. The city argued in its request to withhold information that releasing the documents could interfere with the departments ability to prevent, detect, respond to, and investigate acts of terrorism or related to criminal activity.

The attorney generals office handed down an opinion on July 17, 2023, that portions of the full official general orders requested by the Star-Telegram could be withheld but that the department could not decline to release the full document. The city did not demonstrate that releasing the documents would violate Texas law that protects certain internal documents from public information requests.

In an opinion on the Star-Telegrams second request, for just the portions of the order about police pursuits, Paxtons office said the city had not demonstrated that the documents met the criteria to be exempted from open records requests and required the records be released.

The Attorney Generals Office did allow the city to withhold a police report someone requested in relation to the crashes.

The city says in the lawsuit filed in September in Travis County that it is seeking relief from the attorney generals rulings because it believes the information is confidential. It argues that the determination of when to call off a vehicle pursuit is tactical information that, if made public, would interfere with the departments ability to prevent, detect or investigate crimes.

In addition to requesting a court declare that the requested records can be kept away from the public, the city is requesting attorneys fees and an order that the attorney generals office pay the costs of the lawsuit.

In his response to the lawsuit filed with the court, Paxton requests the court deny all the citys requests and rule that the information is subject to release under the Texas Public Information Act.

The Fort Worth City Council is scheduled to vote at its meeting Tuesday on whether to ratify the lawsuit.

Several other North Texas police departments, including Dallas police, make their chase policies public.
When staff at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park noticed an outbreak of swearing among five of their African grey parrots in 2020, they segregated the birds to spare the blushes of the public.

The bad-mouthed parrots were eventually put back on display, but with plenty of warnings for visitors of a sensitive disposition.

Now three further birds appear to have discovered the joys of a squawked expletive. But this time their keepers are planning an altogether different response.

Instead of segregating the birds, named Eric, Captain and Sheila, the staff plan to release them into the wider flock in the hopes of diluting the foul language.

Warnings have been put up for visitors of a sensitive disposition

Steve Nichols, chief executive of the wildlife park who has spent 35 years caring for parrots, is more than aware of the risks.

He said: We could end up with 100 swearing parrots on our hands. Only time will tell.

He added the decision was also motivated by welfare concerns: Parrots are flock creatures. They need to be with other parrots. The bigger the flock, the happier they are.

Even though they swear, the welfare of the birds has to come first.

The original five parrots, named Billy, Tyson, Eric, Jade and Elsie, spent three months in isolation as a result of their antics before they were put back on display.

They have since become the parks star attraction, according to Mr Nichols, with a disclaimer notice installed at the enclosure to warn those of a sensitive nature about the birds colourful language.

Although keen not to offend families, Mr Nichols said the parrots offered humour when the world seems very serious.

He added: You never tire of being told to eff off by a parrot. You cant help but laugh. Of course, visitors stand around the enclosure swearing, trying to get the parrots to copy them.

The African grey parrots are intelligent birds which thrive on social interaction

Asked what he thinks is likely to happen when the swearing parrots meet the remainder of the flock, Mr Nichols said: Ultimately, I think the swearing will be diluted.

People think parrots are loud birds but they talk quite quietly. Im hoping, above the general noise of the flock, the swearing will be drowned out.

Mr Nichols said he doubted the group of eight would completely stop swearing, noting that once its in their vocabulary, its usually there for good.

But he thought there was a good chance the birds would imitate other sounds as well, making the swearing less frequent.

Mr Nichols said: We have about 30 birds who make the beeping sound that a reversing lorry makes. Hopefully, the rest will pick up on that and there will be less swearing.

Although the odd swearing parrot is not unheard of in the world of avian wildlife keeping, having five at the same time was unusual, Lincolnshire Wildlife Park said at the time of the original outbreak.

Although nobody complained, staff moved the five swearers to allow young visitors to hear the other African greys natural calls.

Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is also home to the parrot Chico, who made headlines in September after learning to sing a range of pop songs, including Beyonces If I Were A Boy.

African greys are a common companion parrot because they are prized for their ability to mimic human speech.

In 2008, an escaped pet of the species in Japan was returned home after repeating the owners name and address.

They are relatively intelligent birds and thrive from a behavioural and socially enriching environment, as well as lots of attention.

Home to the National Parrot Sanctuary, the wildlife park houses more than 1,500 parrots.

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Police are investigating the fatal shooting of four women in a house in Tinley Park, a Chicago suburb Sunday. Image by Simaah from Pixabay

Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Four women are dead following a shooting in suburban Chicago Sunday, police said.

The "domestic incident" took place in Tinley Park, a suburb of 55,000 people about 30 miles south of downtown Chicago, at about 11:20 a.m., according to Village Manager Pat Carr.

Carr said the victims were shot to death during a domestic incident at a home in the 7400 block of 173rd Street.

When police arrived about 11:30 a.m., officers found four women dead in the home, all from apparent gunshot wounds.

Police said during an update at 3 p.m. local time that they a male suspect in custody and a weapon was recovered, details surrounding the incident are still scant. Tinley Park Police Chief Tom Tilton said during the news conference that there is no threat to the public.

"This was isolated to the home," Carr said. "The scene is secure. There is only one suspect at this time."

The incident frightened those who live nearby.

"My daughter knows them," resident Charlotte Vaitkus said. "She went to school with the oldest son, and she employed the twin sisters. She always talked about how they were all very intelligent, and they had very high goals in life."

Charges against the man in custody are pending. The identities of the victims have not been disclosed.

The investigation remains ongoing.
FILE - U.S. reinforcements wade through the surf from a landing craft in the days following D-Day and the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France at Normandy in June 1944 during World War II. France is getting ready to show its gratitude towards World War II veterans who will come, many for the last time, on Normandy beaches for D-Day ceremonies that will come as part of a series of major commemorations this year and next marking eight decades since the defeat of the Nazis. (Bert Brandt/Pool via AP, File)

PARIS (AP)  France is getting ready to show its gratitude toward World War II veterans who will return, many for the last time, to Normandy beaches this year for 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day to mark the defeat of the Nazis.

A ceremony at Omaha Beach, with many heads of state expected to be present, will be honoring the nearly 160,000 troops from Britain, the U.S., Canada and other nations who landed in Normandy on June 6, 1944.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Friday that D-Day celebrations, alongside the Paris Olympics, will be Frances rendezvous with the world.

It will be an occasion for the French to say merci, or thank you," to veterans, some of whom will make a long trans-Atlantic journey, despite advanced age, fatigue and physical difficulties.

We will never forget. And we have to tell them, Philippe Etienne, chairman of the Liberation Mission, the specially created body that organizes the 80th anniversary commemorations, told The Associated Press.

As a former ambassador of France to the United States, Etienne recalled his strong emotion when handing veterans the Legion of Honor, Frances highest distinction.

They were 18, 20, 22 when they liberated our country, when they gave us back our freedom," he said. Now 80 years later, theyre 100, 98, 102. Its really incredible. Those are really courageous, humble people. They must feel our gratitude.

The link between the last witnesses of the war and the youth will also be at the heart of the anniversary.

"What we want above all, when the last witnesses, the last fighters, the last veterans are still with us, is to give their testimonies to our young people, Etienne added.

In the past couple of years, commemorations also have taken a special meaning as war is raging again in Europe since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Gen. Michel Delion, director-general of the Liberation Mission, said that the message is more for the whole population than only for soldiers. Because the price of liberty is something that any citizen of any democratic nation needs to understand."

The civilians were part of this (World War II) conflict because they suffered and they supported fighters. And we need to have this cohesion of our nations, of our populations to be able to answer to any question ... or any danger we could face tomorrow or today, he added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had been present for the 70th anniversary of D-Day, wasn't expected to be invited this year. Putin didn't attend the 75th anniversary in 2019.

Countries like France that have signed and ratified the Rome Statute that created the International Criminal Court are obligated to arrest Putin, who was indicted for war crimes connected to the deportation of children from Ukraine, if he sets foot on their soil.

Etienne said that the commemorations, including some academic events, "will surely not ignore the sacrifices of everybody who  was involved in the liberation of Europe, including in the East, because the Nazi regime was defeated both from the West and from the East.

He stressed the fact that "populations of the former Soviet Union, Russians in particular, but also Ukrainians and others, participated in this liberation.

Other key events will include celebrations of the Allied landing in Provence, in southern France, and the liberation of Paris, both in August, as well as the liberation of Strasbourg, at the border with Germany, in November, and the commemoration in May 2025 of the surrender of Nazi Germany to Allied forces.

Ceremonies will also allow France to pay tribute to Resistance fighters, to soldiers who came from its then colonial empire in Africa and to the civilians who suffered during the war.

Already across France, we feel that there's a very strong mobilization to remember this very important period in history, said Fabien Sudry, deputy director-general of the Liberation Mission. We feel it in the contacts we have, in the trips we make, with many local and regional authorities involved."

French authorities are notably considering launching an nationwide operation to collect family documents, objects and audiovisual material related to World War II that would help keep the memory alive.
France started enforcing a month-long ban on commercial fishing in the Bay of Biscay on Monday to protect dolphins who have been dying by the thousands in recent years.

The ban off the western coast, the first since the end of the Second World War, applies to both French and foreign fishermen in boats longer than 26ft.

Many in the industry are up in arms, saying their livelihood is under threat.

However, the move follows calls by environmental activists to protect dolphins in the wake of a surge in deaths among the mammals along Frances Atlantic coast.

About 450 French vessels will be affected by the fishing ban - CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP VIA GETTY

About 9,000 of the animals die in the region each year after being ensnared in nets as a result of accidental capture, according to CIEM, a scientific body that tracks North Atlantic ecosystems.

For years the organisation has called for a winter pause in some indiscriminate fishing techniques, but it has been met with fierce resistance from industrial fishermen.

The month-long ban will affect about 450 French vessels and will result in fishing from Finistere, in the extreme west of Brittany, to the Spanish border almost entirely ceasing until Feb 20.

The ban was originally ordered by the countrys top administrative court, the Council of State.

Last week, the French government broadened the ban to all ships, regardless of origin, while promising to support fishermen and fishmongers.

But industry figures have criticised the temporary measure. Frederic Toulliou, president of the UMF, a fish wholesalers union, warned that the ban will result in 8,000 fewer tons of seafood products and represent a loss of 60 million in sales for the fish trade, which is already weakened by Brexit.

Industry figures said the ban would represent a loss of 60 million in sales for France's fish trade - GAIZKA IROZ/AFP VIA GETTY

Olivier Le Nezet, chairman of the French National Fisheries Committee, added: Today, 80 per cent of the fish on French plates is imported. Do we want to go below 20 per cent so that we can import more fish caught in appalling conditions on the other side of the world?

The committee denounced extremist non-government organisations (NGOs) and claimed that the marine mammals were not endangered.

Raymond Millet, a fisherman from La Rochelle, a city on Frances west coast, told the AFP news agency: Its absurd to stop businesses like this for a month.

Vessels 30ft to 36ft long are not the kind of boats that fish for dolphins, argued Mr Millet, who has been a fisherman for the past 40 years.

But Sea Shepherd France, a dolphin defence group, said the ban was unavoidable given the wall of denial and the demonisation of NGOs, skilfully orchestrated by the Fisheries Committee to prevent any constructive dialogue and divert attention from their own failings and lies.

It called for measures that extend over a much longer period.

The French government has promised to support the industry and activate partial unemployment measures and specific aid, if necessary, including compensation amounting to up to 85 per cent of revenues.

Workers pack cuttlefish in boxes at the Chef de Baie fishing port in La Rochelle - HRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT/AFP VIA GETTY

Local maritime authorities promised to intensify patrols to enforce the ban, which Philippe Garcia, head of the Protection of Aquatic Environments association, said was in fishermens interest to observe.

If the fishermen dont play along, its counterproductive for them, he said, adding that further dolphin deaths would strengthen the environmentalists case for more preventative measures.

The ban came as the neighbouring Spanish region of Catalonia announced it would pay young people to become fishermen in an attempt to save the industry from dying out.

Under the scheme, fishing boat owners will be offered apprentices whose wages will be covered in full by the public purse.

In 2003 there were 1,358 fishing vessels registered in the regions ports. Now there are 616, while the number of active fishermen has also fallen from 5,579 to 2,398 over the past two decades.

Sergi Tudela, director-general of maritime policy for Catalonias regional government, said officials hoped the apprenticeship scheme will help maintain the Catalan fleet at its current size.

The cost for ship owners will be zero. It will be financed mainly by European funds as well as some Catalan funding, he said.

Reeling in younger generation

Local fishermen, meanwhile, said the lack of young people entering the profession was partly the result of red tape.

There is no new intake to replace the older generation, partly because there are so many barriers put up by the government, Miquel Mir, leader of the fishermens federation from the Costa Brava port of Palamos, told the Cadena Ser radio station.

He said that excessive bureaucracy had made it extremely difficult to launch new fishing vessels, citing the case of a young man in Palamos who has been unable to go to sea for three months while he waits for paperwork issues to be resolved.

One of the problems the sector has in attracting young people is the irregularity of the earnings, something the regular wage set to be paid to apprentices may help to solve.

If you fish, you earn; if you dont, you dont earn. And what a young person wants is to know how much they will have waiting at the end of the month, Mr Mir said.

Spains overall fishing fleet numbered 8,657 vessels last year, 50 per cent smaller than it was 15 years ago.

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FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  Franklin County Democratic Committee Chair Cameron Schroy is running for the 33rd State Senate District, a seat currently held by Republican Doug Mastriano.

Schroy, 27, is a graduate of Shippensburg University and is a social studies teacher at Waynesboro Area Senior High School.

I am proud to announce my candidacy for the Democratic nomination for state senate, said Schroy. I am from here, I love it here, and I want to make sure we are represented in Harrisburg the way we deserve. Franklin County and Adams County deserve a senator who will be an advocate for our region  not one who picks partisan fights and refuses to work for the greater good of all (Pennsylvanians). We must strengthen and protect the quality of life of our residents, and make our corner of the Commonwealth one where there are more opportunities to build a good life.

Mastriano won re-election to the State Senate in 2020, defeating Democrat Richard Sterner with 68.6% of the vote. Mastriano lost a bid for Governor in 2022 to Democrat Josh Shapiro.

The 33rd district includes all of Franklin and Adams counties.

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Fresno High social studies teacher Peter Beck has been trying a new approach to prevent his students from being distracted by phones during class. He spent last years teaching material budget on three chargers, each with ten USB ports, and some cords.

When we come in, heres my expectation, youre going to hook up your phone to a charger. They will be up there for the duration of the class period. I will stop with three minutes to go, you can go and get your phones, Beck said he tells his students.

But some students have refused to set their phones aside for charging. He acknowledges that technically speaking they have the right to refuse, because theres no policy. But if they refuse to stop using their smartphones in class, he can call it willful defiance, which is against the rules.

In one case, a student refused to cooperate and he called the campus safety assistant and the vice principal. The disruption tied up class for 25 minutes, and the whole class had to move to another room to restore teaching, he told The Bee. He talked to the students parents, then he suspended the student for two days, only from his class, and allowed the student to catch up on assignments.

It shouldnt have to get to that point. I havent dealt with phone issues since then because Im afraid to trigger another (incident), he said. I just need some guidance so I know what to do. I dont feel like (district) would back me up if I do anything, because theres no clear policy.

I still have half the class that refuses to plug in their phones. I cant go to my principal. I cant go to anybody, he continued. When I try to do something with the phone, teachers are like, Come on, the kid is not a bad kid, and the administration is like, You know, you dont really have guidance on what to do from the district. And if I have to call every parent whose kid was on the phone ... Id be working all night.

Students are checking their phones all the time during class, teachers told The Fresno Bee, but other than constantly reminding them to put their phones away, many teachers arent sure what to do because there is no district-wide guidance or support for teachers to discipline students who violate the rules. In fact, a district-wide policy banning portable communication devices in Fresno Unified classrooms is now 20 years old, before smartphones and social media companies took hold in society.

Teachers told The Bee they were concerned that strictly enforcing phone use would either antagonize the student or the parent for potentially criticizing their parenting skills. Grabbing phones from students might be considered improperly touching their property. They also point out that grading is supposed to be based on a students academic achievement and not their behavior, according to the grading guideline from the California department of education.

A bit outdated

The first smartphone model, an iPhone, also known as the iPhone 2G, was released in June 2007. The Instagram app was launched in 2010 and acquired by Facebook in 2012. The TikTok app entered the U.S. market in 2017.

The current policy, in the 2023-24 Parent-Student handbook, was effective Jan. 2004. It says high school and middle school students can have portable communication devices on campus and with them during school-sponsored activities, but they must keep them turned off and out of sight during class. It also says elementary school students are not permitted to possess or use portable communication devices on campuses.

Fresno Unified spokesperson A.J. Kato told The Bee in emails last Friday that an updated policy is in the works for next school years handbook. She did not provide any other details about any changes to the policy. The Bee also contacted the school board president and the superintendents office in emails on Thursday for this article.

District spokesperson Nikki Henry told the Bee in an email response that schools and teachers can create their own specific guidelines: ... policies are the minimum threshold set for the entire district and schools have the authority to build upon these policies for what works best at their campuses.

New Fresno school board President Susan Wittrup acknowledged in an email response that the current policy is a bit outdated, and she said the board is looking forward to reviewing an updated policy. She said she encourages teachers to work with their site leaders and instructional superintendents to explore different strategies to minimize student distraction to the learning.

Students know its not enforced

Manuel Bonilla, president of the Fresno Teachers Association, said that there is not enough accountability for student behavior regarding smartphones, sending the wrong message about the value of instructional time.

If the culture is not to hold things accountable, what happens is that everything kind of gets pushed down to the people lower, he said. Guidelines are important because what it points to is what we value. Whether about other things or cell phones, the message, though its implicit, is we dont value and respect instructional time.

The Bee spoke to another veteran high school teacher who said he cites the 2004 policy at the beginning of each semester to remind students to put their phones out of sight, out of mind during class. But he also acknowledged that students know the district wont enforce the policy with any consequences.

The high school instructor, with 30-plus years of experience, asked not to be identified because hes not authorized to speak to The Bee about district policy. He said that with each passing year, smartphones become more visible and distracting in class. He said many students now act as if placing the phones face down on the desk, even atop coursework, is being polite. He said that he has had to walk up to students to ask them to put away their phones six or seven times during a 54-minute lesson. He said its common for four or five students in each class he teaches to spend the entire class just focusing on their screens, and wearing earbuds, even when theyre approached. He said he can hear the music still playing through their earbuds.

Some schools creating rules

Some schools in Fresno are taking novel initiatives to regulate cell phone access in the classroom. Bullard High School has implemented a Yondr Pouch program that requires students to lock their mobile phones in a pouch and use specialized unlock equipment to release the phone.

Hoover High School enforces a rigorous, school-wide phone-free policy. Students can keep their phones on them, but if they take the device out during class, teachers notify campus security and the vice principal comes in. They either give the phone to the vice principal or the student leaves class.

Its working because the principal is pushing it, he physically walks up to the student and asks if You would like to give it to the teacher or give it to me? and later he reaches out to that teacher, How come you are letting the student use it,  said Patrick Sauceda, a special education instructor at Hoover High School.

Because there are no district-wide guidelines, the more common situation is that most schools and teachers dont have the support to regulate phone use. It can become an overwhelming task, especially for teachers because they have to become the rule creators and enforcers, and all the responsibility and consequences fall on individuals, says Bonilla.

Teachers dont have the incentives to enforce banning phones, they are torn between satisfying the parents, being very careful about what they say, and doing their job, said Ofir Turel, a professor in behavioral and managerial issues in technology addiction, formerly teaching at the California State University, Fullerton, before he joined the University of Melbourne. They try to walk the fine line, which is difficult.

Learning cant always be fun, and with phones present, teachers are exhausted to compete with cell phones for students attention, said Beck, the Fresno High social studies teachers, and other educators interviewed by The Bee.

Im like 75% entertainer because I have to keep the attention of the Nintendo generation, said Beck. The district does nothing to discuss the cell phone policy. It could be as simple as that last year we had kids get hit by cars so we got to campaign Hey be careful when youre out there, how about Hey lets put the cell phones away. 
Roland Harings, Chairman of the Executive Board of Aurubis AG, stands in front of the filter system of the environmental protection plant for reducing fugitive emissions (RDE) on the Aurubis AG plant site. Marcus Brandt/dpa

Following losses in the the three-digit millions caused by fraud at the Hamburg-based copper producer Aurubis, three out of four executive board members are facing personal consequences, including chief executive Roland Harings.

Representatives of the supervisory board are currently holding "advanced talks with three executive board members about the termination of their executive board activities," Aurubis announced on Monday evening in a statement.

"The investigations will show that we have managed the company with all due diligence and responsibility," Harings himself said in mid-December.

In addition to Harings, chief financial officer Rainer Verhoeven and chief production officer Heiko Arnold will also lose their positions, the company said.

A final decision by the entire supervisory board is planned for Tuesday.

Harings will leave the executive board on September 30, Verhoeven on June 30 and Arnold on February 29, the statement said. "Until their early departure, these members of the executive board would continue to fulfil their respective duties."

With these changes, the supervisory board is responding to the damage caused at Aurubis following several spectacular cases of fraud and theft.

The supervisory board had commissioned a law firm to investigate the responsibility of the executive board in connection with the criminal offences.

Aurubis was targeted by criminals in several cases. In December, when presenting its annual results for 2022-23, the company reported a metal shortfall of 169 million ($184 million).
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock speaks at the state party conference to adopt the Greens' election program in Brandenburg for the 2024 state elections. Jens Kalaene/dpa

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock plans to visit the East African countries of Djibouti, Kenya and South Sudan beginning on Wednesday.

The war in Sudan is likely to loom over Baerbock's diplomatic visit, with discussions expected to focus on how to better coordinate international mediation efforts and increase pressure on both sides, according to a spokeswoman for Germany's Foreign Office on Monday.

All three countries that Baerbock will visit have played a prominent role in the diplomatic efforts to end the fighting in Sudan.

A bloody power struggle in Sudan broke out in mid-April between the de facto head of state, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who leads the Sudanese RSF militia group.

According to UN figures, more than 7 million people have fled since the conflict began.

The security of the sea routes in the Red Sea will also play a role in Baerbock's discussions in Djibouti, the spokeswoman added.

The European Union has been discussing a mission to secure shipping in the Red Sea for weeks. According to the plans, warships from EU countries are to be deployed to protect freighters.

Government sources have told dpa that Germany plans to send the frigate Hessen as part of the mission, but would need a mandate from parliament in order to participate.
German Minister of the Interior and Home Affairs Nancy Faeser speaks during a press conference at the German Bundestag on the reform of citizenship law. Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said she is in favour of stepping up the fight against international drug trafficking.

"The harbours in the Netherlands, Belgium and France are becoming even more strained by international drug smuggling," Faeser told the Funke Mediengruppe newspaper in an article published on Monday, saying Germany was also affected.

The ports of the northern Germany city of Hamburg in particular are the focus for drug trafficking. "Therefore, I want tougher and more internationally coordinated actions against cocaine and drug trades," said Faeser.

"Above all, it is important to make port employees resistant to corruption. Our authorities must do a better job of informing companies about how drug cartels try to recruit."

Faeser will soon travel to South America "so that our police forces can work together directly and so that we can ensure that mass quantities of drugs do not reach Europe," Faeser said.

"Brazil in particular is a key partner for us in the fight against drug smuggling. I would also like to cooperate with Peru and Colombia."

It is also important to find out which companies or front companies are involved in drug trafficking, as Faeser said "we want to recognize where pressure is being exerted on port workers."

"In the fight against smuggling, we need a security partnership that extends from Peru to Germany."

Faeser added that there will be a conference in Hamburg in May with EU partners and countries from South America "to further discuss how to better protect our ports."
Employees hand out booklets before the memorial service to mark the act of mourning for former President of the German Bundestag Wolfgang Schaeuble in Berlin Cathedral. Sebastian Gollnow/dpa

Dignitaries and politicians bid farewell to the late German lawmaker Wolfgang Schauble in a state ceremony in Germany's parliament, the Bundestag, on Monday.

French President Emmanuel Macron hailed Schauble in a eulogy, saying that "Germany has lost a statesman, Europe has lost a pillar, France has lost a friend."

Macron also evoked the recent death of Jacques Delors, a former president of the European Commission who died a day after Schauble.

"One after the other, Europe has lost two of its great visionaries," said Macron, who gave the speech in German. He called both Schauble and Delors founding fathers of European reconciliation and unification. "Two statesmen who gave everything for their countries and for Europe."

Chancellor Olaf Scholz, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Bundestag President Barbel Bas were also among the prominent leaders at the ceremony.

Around 1,500 people attended the ceremony, which was preceded by a memorial service at Berlin Cathedral.

Schauble's family and other prominent German politicians, including former chancellor Angela Merkel, also attended.

Schauble, who survived an assassination attempt in 1990, served in the German parliament with the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) for a record 51 years from 1972 until his death on December 26.

He also held several ministerial posts. He led negotiations over German reunification as West Germany's interior minister under former chancellor Helmut Kohl, and pressed for austerity measures during the eurozone crisis as finance minister under Merkel.

In his final years, Schauble served as a simple CDU backbencher. He died at the age of 81 in his home city of Offenburg in south-west Germany, which he represented in parliament for more than half of his life, and has since been buried there.

Barbel noted that Schauble long placed particular importance on Germany's reconciliation and friendship with France after a painful and bloody history of invasions by German forces, including during World War II.

Friedrich Merz, the current CDU chairman, hailed Schauble's long career and his commitment to German democracy, Franco-German friendship and European cooperation.

"We pay tribute to a true statesman of our country, to a European statesman, to a pugnacious democrat, to a formative personality in the recent history of our country," Merz said. "Thank you, Wolfgang Schauble."

Merz acknowledged that Schauble's tough approach to negotiations didn't always win him friends and admiration, such as during the eurozone crisis, when Schauble was widely vilified in Greece for insisting on painful government budget cuts.

"But his dealings were always fair, he was always willing to listen respectfully to his counterpart and was always prepared to make compromises in the interests of Europe," Merz said.

Emmanuel Macron, President of France, speaks at the memorial service for the deceased former President of the Bundestag Wolfgang Schaeuble in the plenary chamber of the German Bundestag. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

Angela Merkel, former German Chancellor, speaks with Robert Habeck German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, before the start of the memorial service to mark the act of mourning for Wolfgang Schaeuble in Berlin Cathedral. Annegret Hilse/Reuters/Pool/dpa

Emmanuel Macron, President of France, kisses Ingeborg Schaeuble's hand in the plenary chamber of the German Bundestag during the act of mourning for the late former Bundestag President Wolfgang Schaeuble. Michael Kappeler/dpa
Claus Weselsky, Chairman of the German Train Drivers' Union (GDL), speaks at a press conference of the train drivers' union GDL on the upcoming six-day strike at Deutsche Bahn. The strike is scheduled to begin on 24 January for passenger services. Christoph Soeder/dpa

The leader of Germany's train drivers' union GDL defended the looming six-day strike against national railway Deutsche Bahn (DB) as both legal and proportionate, given what he described as unsatisfactory offers from the railway.

"We can read. We know what is written there. And it is not a basis for entering into negotiations with DB," labour leader Claus Weselsky said of the railway's latest off to train drivers.

The strike, which will begin on Wednesday, is expected to cause massive disruptions to rail travel in Germany.

Weselsky also expressed confidence that any attempt by Deutsche Bahn to block the strike in court would fail.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed hope on Monday for a quick settlement to the wage dispute between state-owned railway Deutsche Bahn and the GDL union, and maintained his call for an amicable agreement.

But a spokesman for Scholz stressed that the chancellor would not interfere in the labour fight and respects the autonomy of collective bargaining in Germany.
Foreigners could be allowed to join the German army as Boris Pistorius, the countrys defence minister, tries to recruit an extra 20,000 troops in the face of threats from Russia.

We would not be the first armed forces in Europe to do that, Mr Pistorius told the German newspaper Tagesspiegel, as he confirmed the idea was being considered by the government in Berlin.

Under German law only citizens can serve in the Bundeswehr in principle, though foreigners can be allowed to join in certain special cases, according to Bild, a German tabloid.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Bundeswehr has stepped up recruitment efforts to meet its new target of 20,000 extra troops, with a series of advertising campaigns targeting Generation Z, as well as plans to allow flexible working.

Germany would not be the first EU country to adopt a policy where foreigners can join the military. Denmark currently allows foreigners to enlist if they have a work or residence permit. Spain and Slovakia also allow foreigners into the army if they meet certain conditions, according to Euromil, the European Organisation of Military Associations and Trade Unions.

In France, men aged 17-40 can join the French Foreign Legion provided they can stomach its famously gruelling selection and training regime. However, only UK and Commonwealth citizens are allowed to serve in Britains Armed Forces.

Mr Pistorius has already warned that Russias President Vladimir Putin may decide to attack a Nato country within the next five to eight years.

We have to take into account that Vladimir Putin will one day even attack a Nato country, he said. Our experts expect a period of five to eight years in which this could be possible  at the moment I dont think a Russian attack is likely.

Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, announced a Zeitenwende, or turning point, in German defence policy shortly after Putin invaded Ukraine. This included pledges to wean the country off cheap Russian gas, spend some 27 billion on support for Ukraine and to increase the fighting prowess of the Germany army.

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Gladbach's Stefan Lainer reacts during the German Bundesliga soccer match between Borussia Monchengladbach and FC Augsburg. Borussia Monchengladbach defender Lainer is optimistic and full of drive for the future having made his comeback almost six months after being diagnosed with cancer. Marius Becker/dpa

Borussia Monchengladbach defender Stefan Lainer is optimistic and full of drive for the future having made his comeback almost six months after being diagnosed with cancer.

He came on as a substitute in Sunday's 2-1 Bundesliga home defeat by Augsburg.

"Of course, you always have to keep an eye on things. But basically I'm on fire now," the Austria international told reporters.

Despite the defeat, it was a "moment of happiness as I feel fit and can step on the gas," added the 31-year-old, who was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer during pre-season.

"I feel in good shape and am looking forward to the future. The past is what it is. I've made the best of it."

Whether the right back, who joined from Salzburg in 2019, will continue to play for Gladbach next season remains to be seen.

"We are in open and clear dialogue with him and his management," sporting director Nils Schmadtke said. "And then we'll see what comes of it in the end."
Semafor Signals

Insights from Semafor Principals, Global Times, and Hindustan Times





The News

Ron DeSantis pulled out of the Republican presidential race Sunday  throwing his support behind former President Donald Trump, who is currently leading the polls.

Following a disappointing loss in the Iowa caucus, where the Florida governor trailed Trump by 30 percentage points, DeSantis acknowledged that there is no clear path to victory.

Nikki Haley now remains as the sole challenger to Trump ahead of the New Hampshire primary.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Western media consensus: DeSantis biggest problem was Trump

Sources: Semafor Principals , The Washington Post, Fox News, The Economist

The Florida governor was plagued by a slew of problems during his run, some before his campaign even began, the Semafor Principals team wrote in a list of reasons for his loss, including his people problem and his awkwardness on the campaign trail. But his other issues paled in comparison to one: Ron DeSantis ran into a bump and the bump was named Trump, a top DeSantis donor told Fox News. DeSantis focused less on appealing to donors and more on culture war issues, one person involved in his campaign told the Washington Post. It wasnt a well-run campaign, but I dont think the best-run campaign would have beaten Trump, the person said. A YouGov poll conducted by The Economist found that among first-choice DeSantis voters, 44% said that they would choose Trump as their second choice, while 24% would vote for Nikki Haley.

Less than charismatic DeSantis failed to appeal to Trump fans and skeptics

Source: Hindustan Times

DeSantis faltered with a poorly managed campaign, ultra-conservative messaging, limited public speaking skills, and a generally less than charismatic demeanor, wrote DC-based reporter Prashant Jha from the Hindustan Times, a leading Indian daily. DeSantis could not appeal to Trumps base after failing to distinguish himself from the former president on core GOP issues, and his conservative messaging turned away Trump skeptics as well, Jha argued, giving Haley a leg-up in the race.

China believes Biden vs Trump 2.0 will tear the US apart

Source: Global Times

Pro-establishment elites, who were concerned about Trumps legal hassles, have failed in their bid to pit younger politicians like DeSantis against the former president who has reshaped the GOP, Chinas state-owned tabloid Global Times wrote. Biden vs Trump 2.0 will make the election unexpectedly fierce and will further tear the US apart, the tabloid opined. Hawkish Republican candidates will find that playing the anti-China card wont help set themselves apart from each other, Global Times argued, and U.S. voters will soon realize that the country might suffer more losses if it unwisely confronts China.
Liren Chen is accused of murdering his wife Xuanyi Yu at their house in Santa Clara, California (ABC7 News)

A Google software engineer was found spattered with blood after he allegedly beat his wife to death inside their Santa Clara, California home, according to the Santa Clara District Attorneys Office.

Liren Chen, 27, faces a murder charge in the death of his wife whose battered body was found near him when police responded to the grisly crime scene on 16 January.

Officers arrived at the home on Valley Way around 11am after an acquaintance of Mr Chen and his wife who was concerned for their safety called for a welfare check, authorities said.

The acquaintance told officers that Mr Chen was refusing to answer the phone and the door. He stated that he then saw him motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly, according to a press release issued by the prosecutors office.

Police made their way into the home where they found Mr Chen covered in blood. His right hand was extremely swollen and purple and he had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands. He also had scratches on his arm, authorities said.

Mr Chens wifes body was found directly behind him in the living room where he had been standing, according to authorities. She had severe blunt force injuries to her head and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The wifes identity was not released by prosecutors, but the San Francisco Standard, citing property records, reported that her name was Xuanyi Yu and that she also worked for Google, according to her LinkedIn, which has since been changed to say In Remembrance.

Property records show that Mr Chen was married to Xuanyi Yu and that the couple owned a home at 714 Valley Way, where police responded on the night of the incident.

According to LinkedIn, Mr Chen has worked at Google since 2020 and attended Tsinghua University in China and the University of California San Diego along with Ms Yu.

Mr Chen was transported to the hospital where he will be arraigned on the murder charge, the prosecutors release stated.

Domestic violence deaths have been falling in our county but that does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement. 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.
The Republican 2024 presidential primary race recently kicked off with Iowas Republican Caucuses, solidifying former President Donald Trumps dominance with 51 percent of the vote, amid the GOP front-runner bouncing from the courtroom for criminal and civil cases to the campaign trail.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis finished in a distant second place there, while former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley came in third place.

According to an ABC News report, those results reaffirmed what polling has shown for a while: Many, if not all, Republican voters still favor Trump as their GOP nominee to likely face off with President Joe Biden.

Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump and Nikki Haley (Photos: Getty Images)

Despite Trumps win, lower turnout at the polls in Iowa prompted fears about a drop in euthanism in the former presidents campaign compared to his 2016 run for the White House. Only 15 percent of Iowas registered Republicans showed up for last Mondays caucuses, according to the Hill.

I dont think he has the same enthusiasm he did in 2016, but I think he has plenty to become the nominee, Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah told the outlet.

Following his struggling presidential campaign and loss to Trump in the Iowa Caucuses, DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 GOP primary race a few days before the New Hampshire primary. He announced Sunday on the same social media platform where he delivered his glitchy presidential bid while endorsing Trump.

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

Overall, polls forecast an uphill battle for Haley to compete with Trump throughout the 2024 primary race. DeSantis joins many other GOP candidates who have dropped out of the race, including, most recently, successful entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

Scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 23, the New Hampshire primary is the second Republican presidential nomination contest following the Iowa Caucuses, with 22 delegates at stake. Based on most polls, Trump also anticipates winning New Hampshire. And ABC News canceled a planned debate in New Hampshire after Haley said she would only participate again if Trump or Joe Biden were there.

Political experts have said Haley targets more moderate voters.

While Trump leads in most New Hampshire polls, an American Research Group poll gives Haley more hope to upset Trump, showing her trailing Trump by less than five percentage points.

The ARG poll of 600 likely GOP primary voters from Dec. 27 to Jan. 3 reveals Trump leading in New Hampshire with 37 percent, followed by Haley at 33 percent, according to Newsweek. Chris Christie ranks third at 10 percent. The margin of error is 4 points.

Virginia Tech political expert Caitlin Jewitt weighed in on the Jan. 23 Republican primary, saying, Haley and DeSantis will need to do better than expected in New Hampshire in order to have any chance of staying in the race.

Jewitt added: If they dont perform well in New Hampshire, the question will become not if, but when they withdraw from the race. Trump could become the de facto nominee because all his challengers have dropped out or once he has secured 50% of the possible delegates.

Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur, suspended his 2024 presidential campaign after disappointing results in the Iowa Caucuses. After suspending his campaign, he officially endorsed Trump.

Meanwhile, Haley is directing her focus on New Hampshire for this week, staying within striking distance of Trump, as indicated by 538s polling average.

On Monday, Haley officially declared the Republican primary a two-person race, a sentiment stated in a campaign memo sent to the press by campaign manager Betsy Ankeny.

The memo stated, The field of candidates is effectively down to two, with only Trump and Nikki Haley having substantial support in both New Hampshire and South Carolina.

GOP Fear Decline In Donald Trump Momentum As DeSantis Drops Out of Race, Leaving Nikki Haley to Clash with Former President
House Republicans are moving full steam ahead on their impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, while their efforts against President Biden are more uncertain amid a historically slim GOP majority and tricky political dynamics.

The two major impeachment pushes come as Republicans are looking for political wins but have struggled with internal turmoil over a host of issues. But even as many in the GOP have long called to impeach both men, its the Mayorkas impeachment push thats gaining momentum.

Rep. Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.), a swing-district Republican, said that House GOP impeachment efforts should prioritize Mayorkas.

The case is so clear on Secretary Mayorkas, both in this town and throughout districts and states throughout the country, LaLota said. The case is clear on the border. We should focus on the clear case first.

Skepticism in Biden investigations final stages

Republicans in December unanimously voted to formally authorize an impeachment inquiry into Biden.

But several members, including some who represent districts Biden won in 2020, stressed that support for an inquiry is distinct from backing any articles of impeachment  and say they have not yet seen the investigations, which focus largely on the foreign business dealings of the presidents son Hunter Biden, uncover impeachable misconduct on the presidents part.

Theres little question that he was peddling a brand. I mean, who else would hire the presidents son with no experience for that purpose? That doesnt mean it implicates the president, Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-N.Y.) told CNN last week.

That skepticism  combined with one of the slimmest House majorities in history, with which only a handful of defections can kill any party-line measure  means the impeachment push against Biden is up in the air.

I dont think we have the votes for it now, Rep. Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.) said. All the same, he added, you continue with the investigation and you figure out where youre at.

Much of the information from the investigation, Armstrong said, has not really matriculated throughout the whole conference.

The Biden investigations are nearing a close, with a final report  and possible recommendation of impeachment articles  expected after the House Oversight and Judiciary panels complete interviews and depositions with several key witnesses. Those will include a deposition with Hunter Biden himself, the committees announced last week.

Mayorkas back in the spotlight

At the same time, the concern over the U.S.-Mexico border has shot to the top of political discussions in Washington, and eyes have turned back to Mayorkas after a brief reprieve from being in Republicans crosshairs.

For many Republicans, connecting Mayorkas to a top political issue may be an easier sell than a vote to impeach Biden over  barring any other breakthroughs  peripheral interactions with his familys business associates, and unproven and disputed bribery allegations.

The White House and Hunter Biden have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and said that the president was not financially involved in his sons business activities.

Though a Mayorkas impeachment looked somewhat in doubt last year as investigations into Biden intensified, the focus shifted back to the secretary following two attempts by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to force a vote on impeachment, resulting in referring the matter back to the House Homeland Security Committee.

Since then, action has been swift: A markup of an impeachment resolution against Mayorkas is planned for Jan. 31, according to an internal memo obtained by The Hill. Unlike the impeachment effort against Biden, the House did not hold a vote to authorize an inquiry against Mayorkas and moved straight to hearings after completing a months-long investigation into border issues.

Republicans have held two impeachment hearings for Mayorkas, apparently cutting short plans from Homeland Security Committee Chair Mark Green (R-Tenn.), who told Fox News in December he would hold three or four meetings on the matter. During that same interview, Green acknowledged that an impeachment resolution had already been drafted.

After the close of its second hearing Thursday, the 18 GOP members of the panel quickly announced they had reached a conclusion on how to proceed: Congress must exercise its constitutional duty and impeach Secretary Mayorkas.

During Thursdays hearing, Democrats rebuked the majority for moving so quickly and also demanded a minority-organized hearing on the subject, something they argued is backed by impeachment precedent. Republicans appear to be sticking to their timeline after Mayorkas was unable to appear for the hearing, though he has said hes willing to testify and his office offered to find another date.

Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), the top Democrat on the panel, said Republicans are trying to force Mayorkas from his job over a policy dispute and criticized the GOP for failing to take action on the border.

At some point, you have to listen to the men and women who do it every day. Every time they come and ask for more resources, he said of both agency officials and border officers.

Now, those people who have voted against putting more resources on the border, who voted against improving technology along the border, or engagement with countries such as Mexico, whove never voted for it, now all of a sudden the problem is the man whos in charge, whos only carrying out the policies of the person he works for, Thompson said, nodding to Biden.

And during Thursdays hearing he knocked the GOP for failing to engage in ongoing immigration policy negotiations in the Senate, saying those real levers of power dont seem to be flashy enough for my Republican colleagues.

Impeachment far from certain

Though Mayorkass impeachment may have more momentum, it is also far from certain that it could pass the House. Green has reportedly been meeting with House Republicans to gain support.

I just met with Chairman Green, and I have a lot of research to do before I make a final decision, Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) said. But I sort of lean against both [impeachments] because I think its a very drastic action to take. And I think we are very shortsighted if we dont think the Democrats are going to pick up where we left off with his theory and go after Cabinet officials and the next Republican administration or the next  Republican president.

Republicans have accused Mayorkas of failing to follow immigration laws, arguing he has not detained and deported a sufficient number of migrants. They say he has fallen short of the standard for operational control as defined under the Secure Fence Act, which considers the border secure only if not a single person or good improperly enters the country  a standard of perfection that has never been met. Theyve also accused him of violating his oath of office and dereliction of duty  a term largely associated with the military.

The Department of Homeland Security has called the move a baseless and pointless political attack that comes as Mayorkas is trying to negotiate a border deal with the Senate.

Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.) said the interest in Mayorkas comes as the Biden impeachment investigation has stalled.

Theyve kind of shifted their focus to the Hunter Biden stuff, but theyre not gonna get anything out of that that hasnt been publicly disclosed already. So I think thats a dead end. And the Mayorkas thing, they just didnt really have anything there, he said.

I think from an impeachment standpoint for them, theyre trying to use it to continue to sort of put emphasis on the border. Apparently they think thats  thats scoring points for them politically.

If the House does impeach either or both men, virtually no Republicans expect the Senate to convict.

Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas), a member of the House Homeland Security panel and chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said hes confident theyll be able to make the case for Mayorkass impeachment.

Its a signal of confidence from a former prosecutor who expressed reservations about a Mayorkas impeachment in its early days, stressing the need to tread carefully and gather evidence.

When you look at the founding fathers  not to get into the weeds on this stuff  but dereliction of duty, abuse of power, all those things, it didnt have to be a violation of a specific criminal statute to qualify as high crimes and misdemeanors, McCaul argued.

And it also marks a notable difference from the cautious tone that top Republicans are taking when talking about a potential Biden impeachment.

Asked about the challenge of getting the votes behind any Biden impeachment articles, House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) said he is focused on getting the facts. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has stressed that the House GOP will not prejudge the outcome of the Biden impeachment inquiry.

Juggling priorities and measuring success

Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chair of the House Oversight Committee, has previously said he would support impeachment based on his committees work. But he also says that if impeachment articles against Biden do not come to fruition, it will absolutely, 100 percent still be a success, and that he hopes to pass legislation defining influence peddling and banning it in the future.

I never said when we announced the investigation, Were going to impeach Joe Biden, Comer said. Now, maybe there was a member or two of our committee that said that, but theyve said that about a lot of people in the administration.

Anticipating the coming close of his investigation after a few last interviews, Comer sighed: I want to be done with this, explaining he has taken a lot of harassment from the press and dark money groups over leading the investigation into the Bidens.

At the end of the day, Ive done the right thing. We think this will be, long term, be considered a very successful congressional investigation because weve learned so much, Comer said.

But House Republicans are juggling not only the two impeachment efforts, but a host of other tricky political issues from government funding to aid to Ukraine  threatening to deplete the impact of any impeachment.

Its all about making the case, and you have to have information and make the case with the fact that we have 50 stories happening right now, said Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), chair of the House Financial Services Committee. There is no clear throughput. Its Mayorkas, its the border  is it one or the other? Is it both? Is it Biden? Is it the spending deal? Is it Ukraine? I mean, were talking about 50 different things, not focused on any one thing.

If we get out of our own way, that might actually be a net plus for the politics of America, McHenry said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Once there were 14. Now there are two.

Until Tuesday night, anyway.

Once the leading hope to challenge Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis not only suspended his campaign Sunday but also immediately endorsed the former president, increasing the prospects that the new two-person GOP race could in short order be down to one.

If Trump follows his crushing victory in the Iowa caucuses last week with a big win over former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley in the New Hampshire primary Tuesday  as some polls indicate he will  it will be hard to identify a state or an issue that could deny him the Republican presidential nomination in 2024.

Trump is poised to be the standard-bearer for the GOP for the third time in as many elections, and in record time.

"It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," DeSantis said in a video he posted on X, formerly Twitter. He took a parting shot at Haley, endorsing Trump "because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear  a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism  that Nikki Haley represents."

Hundreds gathered to hear Governor Ron DeSantis speak at the North Carolina Republican Party 2023 State Convention on Friday, June 9, 2023.

Trump, welcoming the endorsement, told supporters at his campaign headquarters in New Hampshire that he would shelve the derisive nickname he had coined for his former rival. "Will I be using the name Ron DeSanctimonious? the former president asked, responding to a question Sunday at a stop in New Hampshire. I said that name is officially retired.

Much of the Republican establishment, even some who have resisted Trump's appeal in the past, now view his nomination as political reality. The entire House Republican leadership has fallen in line behind the former president. So have many of those who once challenged him for the nomination  South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and now DeSantis.

'It's now one fella and one lady left'

There was a time Haley had insisted she would defeat Trump in New Hampshire. Now she heads into the final full day of campaigning there trailing him by double digits, 55%-36%, in the Suffolk University/Boston Globe tracking poll, with DeSantis at 6%.

After DeSantis' announcement, she vowed to battle on to the Feb. 24 primary in South Carolina, her home state and one that twice elected her governor.

"I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race; he's been a good governor, and we wish him well," Haley told supporters in New Hampshire. "Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left."

In a statement, she declared: Were not a country of coronations."

But the Palmetto State, like the Republican Party nationwide, has become Trump territory. South Carolina polls averaged by fivethirtyeight.com put Trump swamping Haley 60.9%-24.8%, with DeSantis trailing in single digits at 8.9%.

New Hampshire, where independents can vote in the primary, was a friendlier place for her argument that it was time to move past the "chaos" that has surrounded Trump. She wanted a one-on-one race in which the opposition to him would coalesce behind her.

The problem: Achieving that still wouldn't defeat Trump. He commands an average of 66.2% of likely Republican primary voters, according to an average of national polls by fivethirtyeight.com.

Brace yourself: A Biden v. Trump rematch

On the Democratic side, the long-shot challengers to President Joe Biden, including Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, have failed to gain traction against him.

It is still possible that a Biden v. Trump rematch could be upended in before the summer's political conventions. After all, there are six and seven months to go before Republicans convene in Milwaukee and Democrats in Chicago  in a campaign between candidates who are 81 and 77 years old.

But if New Hampshire's results are decisive, that upheaval would almost certainly be precipitated by some personal catastrophe or calamity, not by primary voters.

The calculations of some of this year's presidential hopefuls already are turning to how to win the nomination  in 2028.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ron DeSantis out. Trump closes in. Will spell the end for Haley?
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) believes that President Joe Biden would benefit from speaking more bluntly about abortion and abortion rights.

After warning that Republicans who have sought the GOP presidential nomination  including former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (who dropped from the race) and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley  would drastically hinder abortion rights, Whitmer told journalist Margaret Brennan on CBS Face the Nation on Sunday that Biden should speak on abortion more frequently.

I think it would be good if he did, the governor, whos also a co-chair of Bidens reelection bid, said. 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. 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.

I think people want to know that this is a president that is fighting, she continued. And I think he has said that, to use maybe more, you know, blunt language, maybe that would be helpful.

Whitmers remarks align with Bidens campaign, which is set to go into full swing this week, putting the issue of abortion at the forefront, CNN reported. The campaign will also focus on highlighting personal stories about abortion access.

On Sunday, the Biden campaign released a harrowing ad called Forced, which details the life-threatening pregnancy a Texas OB-GYN was involuntarily required to endure because of the fall of Roe v. Wade.

In Texas you are forced to carry that pregnancy, and that is because of Donald Trump overturning Roe v. Wade, Dr. Austin Dennard, the OB-GYN, said in the ad. The choice was completely taken away. I was to continue my pregnancy, putting my life at risk.

We need leaders that will protect our rights and not take them away and thats Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, she added.

Since the Supreme Court reversed the landmark Roe v. Wade decision in 2022, roughly 50 years after its establishment, a number of states have implemented abortion bans or restrictions as an attack on reproductive rights.

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Superintendent of Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility, Joseph Marsilio, opens a hallway gate at the facility in Cleveland. Ohio Department of Youth Services, (DYS), operates three prisons for juveniles adjudicated of felony charges.

Ohio should eventually close its three youth prisons and replace them with a dozen small, close-to-home juvenile lockups, Gov. Mike DeWine said on Thursday.

"I think it's the right thing to do. It's important for safety of the juveniles, I think it's important for the safety of the staff. I think we'll be better able to deliver services to these juveniles in a smaller setting," DeWine told the USA TODAY Network Ohio.

This shift could take several years and require legislative action, the governor said.

Following the November publication of an eight-month investigation from The Cincinnati Enquirer, The Columbus Dispatch, Akron Beacon Journal and Canton Repository into youth prisons and detention centers, DeWine appointed a panel of experts to study issues and make recommendations.

The study group leader, Tom Stickrath, said he would like to recommend a shift to smaller facilities and hire an outside consultant to review operations inside the youth prisons.

Ohio operates youth prisons in Circleville, Massillon and Highland Hills for about 470 youths ages 12 to 21 found responsible for felony acts. Children aged 10 and 11 who are adjudicated delinquent are held in private facilities.

Ohio has had plans to replace Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility, which has dorm-style housing, with a new prison with individual cells. About $118 million in state funds has been earmarked for that project.

DeWine said he endorses those two ideas and would like to make the consultant's services available to locally operated juvenile detention centers.

Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility in Cleveland. The Ohio Department of Youth Services (DYS) operates three prisons for juveniles adjudicated of felony charges.

He added that he wants the group to examine how many children should be in youth prisons in the future.

"We have to look at this from a system-wide point of view, a more holistic point of view," DeWine said.

The closure of Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility would have an economic impact on the city of Massillon, newly-elected Mayor Jamie Slutz said. The prison employs 280 people, who contribute to the local economy, he said.

Slutz, a retired Massillon police officer, hopes the facility will remain open even if officials decide to move to smaller, community facilities for offenders.

"Maybe they can still use the facility and cut that number (of youth) in half," the mayor said. "We would want to talk to state legislators and come up with a plan to keep Indian River."

Two decades ago, Ohio had about 2,000 children incarcerated in 10 youth prisons. The state shuttered prisons and shifted to providing services at the local level.

The total number of children adjudicated on felony charges has fallen from about 9,000 in 2004 to 3,200 in 2022.

Other states have closed youth prisons in favor of smaller, closer-to-home facilities. California did so in June 2023.

Massillon Independent reporter Amy L. Knapp contributed to this report.

Laura Bischoff is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Mike DeWine endorses closing Ohio youth prisons, building smaller ones
An NHS vaccine catch-up campaign is being rolled out at GP surgeries and pop-up clinics across the country - WESTEND61

The Government must make the measles jab available from pharmacies, MPs have said.

An NHS vaccine catch-up campaign is being rolled out at GP surgeries and pop-up clinics to tackle falling uptake rates that have led to a measles outbreak in the West Midlands and London.

But the Governments health select committee questioned why pharmacies were not also being used to deliver routine vaccinations like the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) jab, which was a recommendation it made in July last year as part of a report that should have been a wake-up call.

Steve Brine MP, chairman of the health committee, asked Maria Caulfield, the Health Minister, if she would commit to a much more flexible delivery model during an urgent question on the outbreak in the House of Commons.

Mr Brine recounted that the UK Health Security Agency, which declared a national incident last Tuesday, had said it was expecting measles to come back in April last year.

Steve Brine asked Maria Caulfield if she would commit to 'a much more flexible delivery model' - STEFAN ROUSSEAU/PA

Can the minister say more about how she will inject more urgency into this [vaccine] rollout and will she commit, as we also asked for, a much more flexible delivery model for vaccinations, including through pharmacy? he asked.

Ms Caulfield admitted the Government needed to be more nimble and said it was working with local teams in the Midlands and London to find out what resources they need in order to become more nimble.

There have been more than 300 confirmed or probable cases of measles in the West Midlands since October, with the majority in Birmingham, and doctors have said children are arriving at hospital with the disease every day.

Ms Caulfield told the Commons there were vaccine buses going into communities, pop-up clinics in schools and GPs putting on extra vaccine clinics.

She said the real barrier to [uptake] is peoples reluctance to get vaccinated for a variety of reasons, citing post-Covid vaccine fatigue, concerns about the contents of the vaccine among Jewish and Muslim communities, as well as the spread of misinformation.

Ms Caulfield told the Commons there were 'vaccine buses going into communities' and 'pop-up clinics in schools' - HEATHCLIFF O'MALLEY

Ms Caulfield said they were undoing the damage of disgraced doctor Andrew Wakefields discredited report, which falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism, and put off a huge cohort of now young adults.

We do have non-porcine vaccines available, she said of those concerned about the vaccine containing gelatin from pork.

Priorix is available not just on request, it is being proactively pushed out to communities.

We also know that theres a Halal vaccine available, again we need to get that message out so people dont have to request it, it should be routinely offered to them.

More than one million people aged 11 to 25 across the West Midlands and London are being invited to get missed MMR jabs.

The NHS is also inviting all children aged six to 11 years old in England to get their MMR vaccinations if they have missed either one or both doses. Parents of these children will be asked to book in with their GP practice for the jab.

Fewer than 85 per cent of people in England have had both doses, latest figures show, which is significantly lower than the 95 per cent the World Health Organisation recommends.

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.
PIERRE, S.D.  Legislative leaders agree that the ongoing child care crisis in South Dakota represents a significant workforce problem. A bill authorizing a statewide cost study of child care is likely to drop soon, but advocates worry lawmakers lack a sense of urgency.

Child care centers are struggling to hire workers in part because pay in the industry lags behind most other industries. It's a nationwide problem. In 2021, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said child care workers make on average $27,000 a year, putting them in the bottom 2 percent of occupations.

That low wage can make recruitment and retention difficult, leading child care centers understaffed. Without adequate staff, centers can't care for their licensed capacity of kids  leading to a shortfall of funds for the center and a shortage of care slots for families.

During a town hall hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting in October, Early Learner South Dakota Director Kayla Klein explained it's not as simple as raising prices to offer staff more competitive wages.

"As soon as you start to have the market continue to increase the fees, you're really just going to be providing care for those who can afford it," said Klein. "You're forgetting about your frontline workers who you rely on as your barista in the morning to serve you your coffee and who are working at McDonald's and helping you bag your groceries at Walmart. It's those individuals who are priced out. So, are we OK with that?"

Briana Pickner, back center, works with a group of children in a small group while others play with toys on the carpet on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at Little Tykes University in Sioux Falls.

Looking for an alternative

Some states have begun investing ongoing funds in child care in hopes of addressing the problem. During a December interview with KWAT radio in Watertown, Gov. Kristi Noem said she's against subsidies.

"I still believe parents are parents, and their responsibility is to their children and we'll do all we can to make sure that there's resources in their communities to utilize," the governor said. "But I don't believe that it's the role of the government to assume all financial responsibility for raising these children."

The state does offer child care subsidies for low-income families, and the Noem administration has distributed $40 million in mostly federal money to child care providers around the state, including longstanding facilities like Apple Tree in Sioux Falls, which is trying to stay open.

Though one-time funds acted as a short-term solution, the governor's hesitance to funnel ongoing funds into child care is shared by other lawmakers like House Majority Leader Will Mortenson. He points to states like California that continue to struggle despite significant state investment.

"We're looking for an alternate path to move the needle on making sure that there's safe and affordable child care for everybody," Mortenson, a Republican from Pierre, told South Dakota Public Broadcasting's Lee Strubinger after the State of the State address earlier this month. "We've found out what doesn't work. We're still looking for what does."

Policy and partnership

Fellow Republican Tim Reed, a state senator from Brookings, is part of a group looking for solutions.He's leading an informal task force on child care that includes providers, business leaders and other experts around the state. He's also been following the issue as CEO of the Brookings Economic Development Corp.

"I think the biggest thing we have to look at is we're figuring through estimates and reports that have been done: $329 million dollars in lost productivity with child care," said Reed. "And I'm sure you're going to see even more with these child care centers closing."

While Reed said center closures haven't yet impacted Brookings, the ongoing closures of longstanding child care centers in Sioux Falls prove no provider is immune to the struggling business model.

"The question is, 'What's the role of government when it comes to child care?' And I do believe that we are there to at least put out, 'This is what it costs,' and then we have subsidy rates," Reed explained. "We do subsidize to 207% of the federal poverty level. We subsidize child care, and if we're not paying enough at the subsidy rate, you know, and these centers are closing, we have to figure that out as government."

That's why Reed is pushing for a one-time investment of state money into a statewide cost analysis study of child care. While it's not the direct investment into the problem that some advocates might want, he believes it's a meaningful step to make child care more sustainable in the long run.

Reed is also optimistic that the task force and efforts like the John T. Vucurevich Foundation's tri-share pilot program in Rapid City will produce more ideas for creative policy solutions in the future.

"This is going to take a partnership, and that's why we have a task force that we're putting together over the next year. How can everybody participate to solve this issue?"

How to Watch 'South Dakota Focus'

The next episode of "South Dakota Focus" airs on Thursday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m. Central time / 7 p.m. Mountain time. It can be viewed on SDPB-TV 1, Facebook, YouTube and SD.net.

The episode includes:

- A look at how the child care ecosystem in Sioux Falls is responding to the ongoing child care crisis

- Why a cost study could be more likely than direct state investment during this legislative session

- Why the unique challenges of the child care business model require more creative solutions

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Are government subsidies the solution to SD's child care crisis?
A Russian drone dropped explosives on the town of Beryslav in Kherson Oblast on Jan. 22, killing a male resident, Oleksandr Proukudin, the regional governor, reported on Telegram.

The man was riding a motorcycle at the time of the attack, according to Prokudin.

Beryslav, with a pre-war population of around 12,000 people, lies on the Ukraine-controlled west bank of the Dnipro River, some 70 kilometers east of Kherson.

Ukraine's Armed Forces liberated Kherson and other regional settlements on the rivers west bank in the fall 2022 counteroffensive.

Russian troops were pushed to the east bank, from where they have since been firing at the liberated territories, regularly resulting in civilian deaths as well as large-scale destruction of homes and infrastructure.

Russian forces launched 84 strikes against Kherson Oblast on Jan. 21 and overnight on Jan. 22, firing 453 projectiles from various weapons, Prokudin reported earlier.

The attacks damaged an educational facility and a factory in Kherson, he added.

Read also: Under deadly attacks, Kherson fights to keep life going 1 year after liberation

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian forces shelled Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast, killing a person and wounding another one, Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor, said on Jan. 22.

Kupiansk and other settlements in Kharkiv Oblast suffer from regular Russian attacks due to their proximity to the front line and the border with Russia.

The local authorities are still establishing the identity of the killed Kupiansk resident, according to Syniehubov. At least one resident, a 66-year-old man, is known to have been injured in the shelling.

As a result of the shelling, a civilian car caught fire while an apartment building and a store were also damaged, Syniehubov reported.

Russian shelling of Kupiansk on Jan. 18 hit a multi-story building, killing one person and injuring two more, according to Syniehubov.

Liberated from Russian occupation in September 2022, Kupiansk lies less than ten kilometers from the front line, in a sector where Russia has conducted major offensive operations over the past months.

Read also: We pushed and they collapsed: How Ukraine liberated Kharkiv Oblast





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
It was an attention-grabbing graffiti surprise, sitting high on the southern entrance to the U.S. 1 tunnel in bustling downtown Fort Lauderdale.

And now, just like that, its gone.

The tag  Mersa Dustoe, an Indonesian phrase meaning I feel dusty  disappeared early Monday morning, quickly painted over by a state contractor.

The graffiti showed up overnight on Sunday, prompting jokes and barbed commentary on social media. Some people declared they thought the state-owned tunnel looked better with the graffiti than without.

The Tag Artists work looks better than the states, said one post on X. Faster too.

The tunnel is in the midst of a dusty construction job thats taking more than two years and costing taxpayers $28.4 million. The work began in September 2021 and is not expected to wrap up until May 2024.

The tagging incident prompted Mayor Dean Trantalis to suggest the state hire an artist to paint a mural on the tunnels gray overhang. The mural would serve two purposes, beautifying the tunnel while discouraging vandals from tagging it again.

What concerns me is that vandalism like this can reoccur, Trantalis said. We have to ensure that this doesnt happen again. Maybe we should put real artwork at that location.

Billy Canedo, a spokesman for the state Department of Transportation, came back with a question of his own.

Is the mayor offering up the funds? Canedo asked. Id have to ask to see if that would be possible. We dont have funds set up for murals.

Earmarking money for a mural over the tunnel would require commission approval, Trantalis said.

Commissioner Steve Glassman, for one, likes the mayors idea.

Im all for public art, Glassman said. But you dont want it to be too distracting, having people crashing into the wall.

Glassman says he thinks this is the first time the tunnel has ever been marred by graffiti.

The state could not confirm that on Monday.

I dont know if we even keep records of that, Canedo said.

The records would have to go back to 1960.

That was the year the tunnel opened, replacing a bridge used by commuters to cross over the New River.

The Fort Lauderdale Police Department is now investigating the incident.

Heres a warning for anyone who wants to do it again.

Weve placed surveillance cameras on both sides of the tunnel, said City Manager Greg Chavarria. Im going to be meeting with the district secretary (of DOT) to see how we can keep it from happening again.

Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com. Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan
NEW CITY - Grafton Thomas will spend at least another two years in a psychiatric facility after again being found incompetent for trial on murder and attempted murder charges from the 2019 machete attack on Hasidic Jews attending a Ramapo Hanukkah party.

Rockland County Judge Kevin Russo signed an "order of retention" on Wednesday returning Thomas to the Mid-Hudson Forensic Psychiatric Center in New Hampton.

After the attack, Thomas first had been held in a federal mental health facility in Missouri in 2020 before being returned to New York. Russo first signed the commitment document in January 2022 after several doctors found him incompetent.

Grafton Thomas appears in the courtroom of Judge Kevin Russo with his attorney Michael Sussman at the Rockland County Courthouse in New City on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

The document signed by Russo on Wednesday states that Thomas, "as a result of mental disease or defect, cannot understand the proceedings against him or to assist in his own defense."

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Thomas will return to court in two years for another competency hearing unless the psychiatric center doctors determine he's no longer incapacitated and can understand the charges. He would then stand trial. His confinement could last his entire life.

Thomas is charged in Rockland in a 14-count grand jury indictment with second-degree murder for killing 72-year-old Josef Neumann on Dec. 28, 2019. Neumann died months later after being comatose with head injuries. The murder count carries a maximum of 25 years to life in prison.

Thomas also faces six counts of attempted murder and assault. He's accused of invading the rabbi's house on Forshay Road and attacking partygoers with a machete.

Judge Kevin Russo listens during the arraignment of Grafton Thomas in Rockland County Court in New City Jan. 16, 2020. Thomas was charged with a machete attack on Hanukkah party goers in Monsey.

His attorney, Michael Sussman of Orange County, pleaded Thomas not guilty.

"The Rockland County District Attorney's Office is committed to getting justice on behalf of Josef Neumann, and the others injured during this horrific attack," said Scott Waters, a public information officer for District Attorney Thomas Walsh. "When the defendant is ruled competent, the office will proceed with prosecution."

Thomas, once a Greenwood Lake resident in Orange County, also faces a separate 10-count federal indictment. The federal case accuses him of hate crimes by trying to kill the men based on their religion and obstructing the free exercise of religion in an attempt to kill them.

A federal judge will also review the declaration that Thomas remains incapable of understanding the charges against him.

Monsey: A year after violent attacks on Howard Drive and Forshay Road in Ramapo, questions linger

The 2021 Hanukkah attack drew national attention and brought state and federal elected officials into Rockland.

Thomas has been a suspect in the predawn attack and stabbing of a then 30-year-old rabbi walking to a synagogue on Howard Drive in Monsey on Nov. 20, 2019. No arrests or charges have been made.

The attacks led to fear and uncertainty in the Rockland Orthodox Jewish community, coming on the heels of street attacks on Jews in Brooklyn and a Jersey City, New Jersey, supermarket.

FBI complaint: Antisemitism could have spurred the attack.

Sussman and Thomas' family have said he had undergone a mental decline for years before the attack and had been prescribed at least three medications for depression and psychosis.

A federal complaint states Thomas maintained a journal containing references to Nazism and the Black Hebrew Israelites  the group linked to the fatal attack on a kosher grocery store in Jersey City.

The FBI searched Thomas' home and his cell phone, finding references to Jews, Hitler, and the Nazi culture, as well as packaging for an 18-inch machete, according to the complaint.

His family denies antisemitism inspired Thomas.

Authorities said Thomas burst into Rabbi Chaim Rottenberg's house on Forshay Road, declaring, "No one is leaving" and started slashing and stabbing people with an 18-inch machete. One partygoer chased Thomas out of the house wielding furniture and gave his license plate number to Ramapo police.

Two NYPD officers stopped the car at 11:49 p.m. that night, detecting a strong smell of bleach, and saw blood on Thomas' clothing, authorities said.

The officers seized a machete with dried blood on it from under the front passenger seat and a knife with traces of dried blood and hair from the pocket of the rear of the front passenger seat.

Steve Lieberman covers government, breaking news, courts, police, and investigations. Reach him at slieberm@lohud.com Twitter: @lohudlegal

Read more articles and bio. Our local coverage is only possible with support from our readers.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Grafton Thomas found unfit to face charges in Ramapo machete attack
The Rescue Mafia helped their community with rides, grocery runs, and towing stuck cars during the recent winter storms.

On the morning of Jan. 13, with several inches of ice and snow on the ground after a winter storm hit Monmouth and Independence, Caleb Cradit drove to a grocery store to get a few things for his wife.

On the return to his home in Monmouth, he saw three cars stuck in the snow and ice. Cradit was driving a four-wheel drive GMC Sierra and stopped and helped each of drivers.

When Cradit got home, he posted an offer on social media: If other people needed help, he was willing to assist. I had so many replies within a half hour that I couldnt keep up with all of them, he said.

Cradit recruited a few friends and other people in the area with four-wheel drive vehicles doing similar work, joined in, too. They formed what they called The Rescue Mafia, to assist people in Monmouth and Independence.

In a matter of days, Cradit, RJ Lewis, Brittany Radley, Wesley Peterson, Cody Smith, Andrew Harris and Tristan Barger had helped an estimated 300 people. Some needed to get to work, others needed a hand with stuck cars, and a few needed help getting shopping carts loaded with food across parking lots to their cars.

"I learned the hard way how to ask for help, and I know for some people it is hard to ask, said Radley, explaining her step-son died of cancer about a year ago.

It felt good knowing that me and my husband were able to get help for people that we didnt know in this town, it felt good to ... help somebody else in their time of need.

Giving rides, to those in need

Peterson was driving his truck through Monmouth and Independence on Jan. 13 and saw a man carrying a 50-pound bag of dog food. He stopped and him a ride home.

Harris grew up in Eastern Oregon and is used to driving in snow and ice, and has a four-wheel-drive Jeep. He picked up and took home a woman who had been working in Dallas for 72 hours straight during the storms.

A lot of these people ... dont have alternative transportation to be able to get where they need to go, Harris said. Its nice as a community coming together to help out.

Moments like these became the signature of The Rescue Mafia.

Most of the members, some of which couldn't work because of the snow, didnt know each other before banding together.

Its nice to meet people who are like-minded like you and friends come out of nowhere sometimes, Peterson said.

Not asking for money

Cradit said The Rescue Mafia only asked for money when people needed a ride out of the Monmouth Independence area, such as into Salem. Some people did send them money and gave them baked goods such as cookies and donuts.

The amount of support we got on there, it helped phenomenally to help with some of the fuel out of our pocket to do this, said Cradit, an electrician at Forest River.

Lewis, who lives in Salem and formerly lived in Monmouth for nearly two decades, purchased and delivered groceries for a woman and her son who were stuck at her home in Pedee south of Dallas.

I think the most touching thing was just seeing the peoples faces, said Lewis, a truck driver for Knife River.

Avery Steckle rides her horse in Monmouth near Western Oregon University during the snow and ice storm that hit the Willamette Valley.

Barger saw a Honda that had rolled over on a back road between Sheridan and Dallas and used his Chevrolet pickup and a tow rope to tip the car back on its wheels so it could be loaded on a trailer.

The Rescue Mafia hadnt met before Thursday night, when they gathered at Maui Melts in Monmouth for caramels and to talk.

Word travels fast, obviously, in a smaller community," said Maui Melts owner Jamie Mata. "Once one person gets the help and realizes how much help it is, its just a trigger effect.

Now that theyve joined up, The Rescue Mafia members said they want to keep it going.

Weve got the police department waving at us driving down the street, Cradit said. This has turned into something way bigger than I could have imagined.

Bill Poehler covers Marion and Polk County for the Statesman Journal. Contact him at bpoehler@StateasmanJournal.com

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Winter weather brings Good Samaritans together in Polk County
The Highland Rim Project, a rural real estate development startup focusing on creating Christian communities in Kentucky and Tennessee, is causing a stir in national media after being announced at the start of the new year.

The development was announced by Joshua Abbotoy, managing partner of New Founding, the organization overseeing the project, on X, formerly Twitter, on Jan. 1.

Week 3 in the Kentucky legislature: A budget proposal, the 'Safer Kentucky Act' and more

Very excited to announce this project, Abbotoy wrote. "It is the culmination of serious time and deliberation looking at the changing shape of where Americans live and work, and the factors that are driving movement to this country. The demand weve been seeing already is (a) strong confirmation of the thesis."

Recent coverage from The Guardian describing the project as "the latest effort by the far-right to establish geographical enclaves" has grabbed the attention of various politically leaning individuals, some in support of the project, with many speaking out against it.

The Eastern Highland Rim, including parts of Kentucky, Tennessee and Alabama, will become home to the Highland Rim Project. The goal is to create rural,Christian communities focused on a 'healthy, natural and American way of life'.

Heres what we know about the Highland Rim Project:

What is the goal of the Highland Rim project?

According to the New Founding website, the group is determined to develop rural areas in the Eastern Highland Rim, containing parts of Tennessee and Kentucky. By working with local businesses, pastors, and other community advocates, the organization claims to be "investing to build thick communities that are conducive to a natural, human, and uniquely American way of life."

Those interested in a partnership or residing in one of the communities are encouraged to complete a resident waitlist or other partnership form online.

Where will the Highland Rim Project build communities?

The project primarily focuses on communities in Appalachia, specifically in the Eastern Highland Rim area of both Kentucky and Tennessee.

According to The Historical Marker Database, the Eastern Highland Rim contains parts or all of Cannon, Clay, Coffee DeKalb, Franklin, Jackson, Overton, Putnam, Warren and White counties in Kentucky.

Who is involved in the project in rural Kentucky?

Organization New Founding is spearheading the Highland Rim Project intending to build and back organizations and companies associated with American ideals and a positive national vision." According to their website, the group explicitly opposes diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, as well as environmental, social and governance initiatives. The organization also has a venture fund to secure investments.

Some of the team members involved in the project include Nate Fischer, founder, and managing partner; Abbotoy, managing partner; Santiago Pliego, director and venture fund lead; and Angus Schaller, partner.

Is there a need for these communities?

As listed on the website, New Foundings vision is to create a unique and time-limited opportunity to build new types of communities that are conducive to a healthy, natural and American way of life." The organization says that people, especially since [the COVID-19 pandemic] are proactively seeking communities that align with their values and way of life.

Primary ideals for the community include pro-Christendom, pro-human and pro-American values. Abbotoy also told The Guardian a majority of leadership will be Protestant Christians."

National data provided by the Pew Research Center between 2018 and 2019 showed a 12% decrease in Americans identifying as Christians in the past decade. Continuously, 43% of U.S. adults identifying as Protestant between 2018-19 saw a decrease from 51% in 2009, while Catholics dropped from 23% to 20%.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Highland Rim: What to know about the right-wing Kentucky project
The U.K. has given a panel of UN experts satellite photographs of North Korean cargo shipments to Russia as evidence in an investigation into illegal arms trading, the Guardian reported on Jan. 22.

North Korea has allegedly supplied Russia with significant military equipment, including ballistic missiles, since leaders Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin met in Russia's far-eastern Amur Oblast in September 2023.

The Guardian viewed an unpublished report from the U.K. Defense Ministry that includes images of Russian ships loading cargo at North Korea's Najin port. The three ships, the Maia, Angara, and Maria, then sailed to Russian ports in the far east. The photos were taken between September and December.

The U.K. Defense Ministry said it could not identify the contents of the containers.

The three ships have all been sanctioned by the United States government for their ties to the Russian Defense Ministry.

The report was provided to a panel of UN experts focusing on North Korean weapons proliferation. The panel is expected to publish a final report on arms shipments between North Korea and Russia next month.

Russias use of North Korean weapons in Ukraine is a violation of multiple UN security council resolutions, a UN diplomat said.

It undermines international efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and exposes just how desperate Russia has become in its failed invasion. This and other evidence submitted to the UN sanctions committee should trigger a full investigation into Russia and DPRKs [North Koreas] flagrant breaking of international sanctions.

United Nations delegates condemned Russia's use of North Korean weapons in Ukraine at a Security Council meeting on Jan. 10, following reports that Russian forces fired ballistic missiles into Ukraine.

Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) chief Kyrylo Budanov said on Jan. 21 that North Korea is now Russia's largest arms supplier.

Read also: White House: Military cooperation between Russia, North Korea has potential to drastically change security threat

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A female victim of sex trafficking managed to escape in Mississippi, but a man charged in the case did not, and he has been convicted by a federal jury in the Southern District of Mississippi.

The jury found Michael Deon Fulcher, 54, guilty of sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 30 and he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and mandatory restitution for the sex trafficking charge.

Co-defendant, Jonzie Hamilton, 35, previously pleaded guilty to interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution. Her sentencing hearing is Jan. 31.

The FBI Gulfport Field Office investigated the case and the verdict was announced Monday in a press release that said Fulcher lured the physically injured victim into his car in Las Vegas in 2020 by making false promises to help her. He then brought her to his home and sexually assaulted her.

Soon after, Fulcher brought the victim to California, where he and Hamilton forced the victim to engage in commercial sex acts over the course of several weeks.

Fulcher required the victim to follow his strict rules, threatened the victim with physical harm, confiscated her money and Social Security debit card and had an unlicensed dentist pull out her teeth.

Fulcher also sent the victim and Hamilton across the country for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex, stopping in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana and eventually Mississippi, where the victim ran away.

The defendant preyed upon this vulnerable victim and used sexual violence and threats of physical harm to coerce her into commercial sex for his own financial gain, said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division. We thank this victim for bravely facing her trafficker.

This way this victim was trafficked across multiple states and then into Mississippi is an example of how human trafficking affects our entire nation, said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute human traffickers, like the defendant, as part of our efforts to bring an end to this horrible crime.

Trial Attorneys Kate Alexander and Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Divisions Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit prosecuted the case, with the assistance of Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones for the Southern District of Mississippi.

Anyone with information about human trafficking should contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
FILE PHOTO: Police patrol the streets after gang members tried to attack a police station, in Port-au-Prince

PORT-AU-PRINCE (Reuters) - Haiti's national police has lost nearly 3,300 officers in three years, according to data from the force's main trade union, as under-gunned security officials battle powerful gangs estimated to control most of the capital.

Nearly nine in 10 of those were sacked for abandoning their posts, according to a report which SYNAPOHA trade union's general coordinator Lionel Lazarre shared with Reuters on Monday, while 123 more resigned.

Lazarre estimated some 80 police officers were killed in action, died in accidents or disappeared last year.

Police need significantly higher incentives to justify the dangers, the report said, amid a shrinking force and lack of equipment, training and infrastructure.

It highlighted needs for armored vehicles, helicopters, guns and drones.

"The government should assume responsibility. It's not just about purchasing equipment, the police need to be supplied with the financial means to plan operations, for cops working day in, day out in areas controlled by bandits," Lazarre said.

Lazarre said the situation was difficult but police had made progress, recovering control of six neighborhoods and coming close to recovering another.

Around 200,000 people have been displaced as alliances of violent gangs expand their control beyond the capital to rural areas, bringing indiscriminate killings, sexual violence and threatening already precarious food supplies.

Last November, the United Nations estimated some 3,960 had been killed through the year and 2,951 kidnapped.

Haiti's government called for international reinforcements in October 2022 and the United Nations ratified sending a force composed of voluntary contributions late last year.

Kenya, the only country which has offered to lead the force, has sent officials to meet with Haitian security forces ahead of a court hearing this Friday set to decide whether it is legal for it to deploy to the Caribbean state.

Despite worsening humanitarian conditions, countries are wary of backing Prime Minister Ariel Henry's unelected government and repeating abuses committed by past interventions.

Haiti's armed forces were disbanded in 1995 and reinstated in 2017, but the national police remains the main security force.

(Reporting by Harold Isaac in Port-au-Prince and Sarah Morland in Mexico City; Editing by Stephen Coates)
This is a joint project between Nexstar Media Group and Syracuse University.

DERRY, N.H. (NEXSTAR)  Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has been rallying voters across New Hampshire leading up to primary day. One topic, in particular, is engaging some potential voters.

The former governor hosted events at diners, sporting events, and small businesses this past week. Now, she is tackling the issue of schools, and connecting with parents over the American education system.

New Hampshire parent Eddie Smith explains the significance of this issue. Its a really big issue for me, Smith said. I think that our education system has declined dramatically since I went to school.

At a campaign event on Sunday at Gilbert H. Hood Middle School, Haley reiterated her education policy, and left a lasting impression on some voters, like New Hampshire resident Deborah Bailin.

I think its important for parents to understand what it is that their children are being taught and to have kind of access to the curriculum, Bailin added.

Haleys education policy would call for full transparency in the classroom. This would include allowing parents to have more of a say and a role in their childs education.

Additionally, Haley advocated for school choice, which would give students the opportunity to attend whatever school they want without additional costs since they would be given a voucher.

Haley also emphasized that schools should create assignments with free reign for students to express their opinions, rather than just having to agree with the given prompt.

High school student Elias Smith says he has experienced this in his own school. Theres assignments where they say, this is true when I dont think that its necessarily as black and white as that, Smith explained.

Haley expressed at numerous events that her main education goal is to get back to the basics, like reading, writing, and math.

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.
EXETER, N.H.  Just two days before the crucial New Hampshire primary, Nikki Haley finally got the one-on-one showdown with coup-attempting former president Donald Trump she has been wanting following the exit of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Can you hear that sound? she asked about 1,000 supporters in a packed high school auditorium as she took the stage Sunday evening. Thats the sound of a two-person race.

Haley, as she has been for most of the week, was accompanied by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, who endorsed her last month. She was also joined at the rally by TV star Judith Sheindlin  better known as Judge Judy  who endorsed Haley as the real deal.

This is the momentum, the energy, Sununu shouted from the stage in his introduction, pointing out that Trump had led Republicans to defeat in the House in 2018, in the White House and Senate in 2020 and then effectively killed the GOP Red Wave in 2022 with a slate of bad candidates across the country. I am tired of losing, I am tired of losers, and Im sure as hell tired of Donald Trump.

Haley delivered her standard stump speech, warning about the $34 trillion debt, hitting Democratic President Joe Biden for his handling of the southern border, stressing the importance of early education and veterans health care and the need to stand up to China and Russia.

Her criticism of Trump was still limited to saying that, rightly or wrongly, chaos always followed the former president. She did not mention his coup attempt to stay in power despite losing the 2020 election or the 91 felony charges he faces across four criminal indictments.

Interrupted again by a protester criticizing her acceptance of campaign help from oil companies, Haley again said her husband and others in the military fight every day to protect Americans right to voice their view. Im always happy to see a protester, she said.

She closed with a reminder that people shouldnt bemoan election results if they dont participate. Dont complain about what happens in the general election if you dont vote in the primary on Tuesday, she said. Together we can do this.

Haley finished 2 percentage points and 2,000 votes behind DeSantis in Iowa on Jan. 15, which Trump won in a landslide. Late polls in that race predicted she would finish ahead of DeSantis, but she nevertheless claimed that Iowa had narrowed it to a two-person race.

That confidence was based on DeSantis polling in single digits in both New Hampshire and South Carolina, the next two major primaries in the calendar. DeSantis essentially acknowledged as much in his video announcing he was dropping out, saying he could not see a path forward. In that video, he also endorsed Trump and attacked Haley for representing warmed-over corporatism.

Haley in late December seemed to be surging, particularly in New Hampshire, where one poll showed her just several points behind Trump. But that gap started widening again after Trump won Iowa with 51 percent of the vote, with DeSantis and Haley at 21 and 18 percent, respectively.

Her supporters Sunday night, though, said they expected that she would be able to finish strongly and defy the polls.

Theres something brewing up here, said Susan Parker, who is 78 and a 10th-generation New Hampshire native who worked in the administration of former President George H.W. Bush.

She added that she was cautiously optimistic that Haley would prevail because she knows New Hampshire voters. They appreciate the seriousness of whats happening.
Can you hear that sound? a jubilant Nikki Haley asked a jazzed-up crowd as she strode onstage Sunday night.

Thats the sound of a two-person race.

The former South Carolina governor had just got what she wanted for months  a one-on-one clash with Donald Trump for the Republican nomination.

But she must still prove she can make a head-to-head duel with the ex-president last through Tuesdays New Hampshire primary and beyond, after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suddenly shelved his White House bid.

Trumps critics have long argued that if he ever faced a one-on-one fight for the Republican nomination against a single candidate who united all the partys opposition against him, hed lose.

The theory is about to be put to its ultimate test.

Haley will never have a better chance than in New Hampshire, among an electorate in which moderate and independent voters play a crucial role, to beat Trump in a single contest and to prove she can mount a nationwide challenge against him. A victory, or very close runner-up spot, will be vital to the former South Carolina governors capacity to run through her home states primary next month and into the Super Tuesday major-state primaries at the beginning of March.

Theres two people in this race. Thats what we wanted all along, Haley told CNNs Dana Bash on the trail Sunday, moments after DeSantis quit the campaign.

But Haley faces an existential question for her own campaign Tuesday. Is the front-running ex-president, who is hugely popular among GOP base voters after turning his unprecedented legal morass into a rallying call, simply too strong at this point for anyone in the party to beat him? And if there is a consolidation of the Republican pack, it seems to be around Trump, not her, as three of the ex-presidents defeated rivals  DeSantis, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy  have endorsed him in the last week. Theyre all all coming with us, Trump noted with satisfaction at a rally in Rochester, New Hampshire, on Sunday night.

But the chief proponent of the idea that a head-to-head contest could imperil Trump and open the way for a prolonged duel for delegates has been New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu. The popular Republican seemed ecstatic that his preferred scenario had come true as he rallied for Haley in Exeter on Sunday night.

A little while ago, there were 13 candidates in the race, and now there are only two, he roared to the crowd. They said that couldnt be done, but then Nikki Haley came along and wiped them all out. For years we have been waiting for something where the Republicans could galvanize together. Sununus remarks underscored how Haleys race has become part of a long battle for the soul of the GOP, even if she has trodden carefully in criticizing Trump for fear of alienating party voters who like him. Still, Sununu has also been downplaying expectations for Haley in recent days, arguing she only needs to start winning states on Super Tuesday.

Haley gets a jolt of energy

Practically, the DeSantis departure came late for Haley  giving her only one full day to make her case that shes a genuine contender in an one-on-one battle with Trump before voters go to the polls in New Hampshire. But she quickly tried to capitalize on her new status, presenting herself as the antidote to Trumps chaos  her code word for his criminal problems, impeachments and tumultuous first term  and as a far surer bet to beat President Joe Biden in Novembers general election.

The news sent a jolt of energy through Haley and her crowd. Shes had a rocky few days, despite the withdrawal of former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, whom her team had feared would split the anti-Trump vote in New Hampshire. She came third in the Iowa caucuses last week, a showing that dented a narrative of momentum surrounding her campaign. And in a CNN poll released Sunday, Trump led Haley by 11 points in the state. If anything, she might have benefited from DeSantis staying in until Wednesday. When his small slice of the vote in the CNN poll was reallocated based on voters second preferences, Trump led by 13 points since the Florida governors voters are likely a better fit for his coalition.

Yet the signature unpredictability and fabled history of the New Hampshire primary means theres a chance that the late-in-the race narrowing of the GOP field could justify Sununus euphoria and give Haley the shock win she needs.

While most polls show a solid Trump lead, a complication in New Hampshire is that no one can be sure how many undeclared voters  the name for independents in the Granite State  will show up on Election Day to vote in the GOP primary. An unexpectedly high turnout of undeclared voters powered late Arizona Sen. John McCain to a shock victory in the 2000 GOP primary against George W. Bush. The state has also sprung shocks on the other side of the aisle: In 2008, Democrat Hillary Clinton won New Hampshire days after losing the Iowa caucuses to Barack Obama, in a result that turned his march to the nomination into a monthslong slog.

The New Hampshire polling is all over the place  one reason  and that is the proportion of the undeclared voters that can vote in the Republican primary, Republican pollster Whit Ayers said in a Brookings Institution briefing last week. It is very difficult to anticipate what proportion they will make of the final turnout.

How Trump won amid a split field in 2016

Trump has long had to endure arguments that his shock capture of the Republican nomination in 2016 was only possible since party heavyweights such as Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Christie and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush all vainly believed they were the only candidate who could beat him  and thus divided the anti-Trump vote among them.

There is some truth to this version of history. Bush only quit in February 2016 after a fourth place in the South Carolina primary proved what Trump was saying  that his campaign was a low energy failure. Rubio, whose soaring vision of 21st century Reaganism was destroyed by Trump, only pulled out in March of that year after losing his home state to the future president. Cruz survived as the last opponent standing and stayed in the race until May, but by then, Trump was too far ahead. Had the Texas senator been the lone challenger from New Hampshire onward, perhaps the outcome may have been different.

In many of the races in the last competitive GOP nominating season, Trump benefited from a fractured opposition, and the first-past-the-post rules of many contests meant he was able to harvest all the delegates on offer even without a majority of votes. In the South Carolina primary, for instance, Trump won 32.5%, ahead of Rubio with 22.5%, Cruz with 22.3% and Bush with 7.8%. Had there been a single unified anti-Trump Republican challenge, the future president would almost certainly have lost the race. Instead, he walked away with all the states 50 bound convention delegates. Even in New Hampshire last time, Trump won a relatively close race in a packed field with only 35% of the vote but won all 11 delegates.

Eight years later, Trump has changed the Republican Party beyond recognition. Hes remade it in his populist, nationalist image. This time last year, the former president looked vulnerable after his attempts to push his favored candidates in the midterm elections may have cost the GOP the Senate. But he successfully leveraged his 91 criminal charges, including over his attempt to overturn democracy to stay in power after losing the 2020 reelection, into a foundation for a revived campaign. Millions of Americans now believe his falsehoods about a stolen election. His expected appearance in a New York courtroom Monday in a civil defamation case is another example of how he has used his legal dramas to fuel his campaign. And Trump has driven out Republican lawmakers who still oppose him  such as former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, who lost a primary in 2022, and 2012 GOP nominee Mitt Romney, who is not running for a second term as a Utah senator.

That transformation of the GOP  and Trumps extraordinary bond with voters  has often been reflected in polls of this race, which have shown Trump with greater popularity in key states than all of his rivals combined. This was borne out in Iowa last week when Trump got just over 50% of the vote in the widest victory in the GOP contest in the states history. While the magnitude of that result is unlikely to be repeated in New Hampshire, given the states demographic makeup, Haleys path becomes far more complicated going forward even if she notches a win in the Granite state.

Take South Carolina. While she twice won gubernatorial battles, Haley hasnt been on the ballot there in a decade. And now, the state is one of the most fervent pro-Trump bastions, a point the ex-president tried to make by inviting Gov. Henry McMaster, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and other top state Republicans who have endorsed him to join him on stage in New Hampshire on Saturday night. Scott delivered another blow to Haley on Friday by endorsing the former president, and argued on CNN on Sunday that Trump would be a much stronger commander in chief than Haley.

In Exeter, Haley pitched a vision of a deeply conservative presidency on issues including immigration reform, deficit reduction and foreign policy. But her demeanor and plans also offered a promise of a return to calm, steady governance instead of Trumps tumult and the retribution hes promising for a second term. Theres no suggestion, even from Democrats, that Haley would threaten democracy from the Oval Office or turn decades of US foreign policy values upside down. Hypothetical matchup polls showing Haley defeating Biden in many cases suggest thats a campaign many Americans could get behind.

But Haleys problem is that most Republican voters may not want what shes offering.

Republicans set all the issues aside, CNN commentator and Republican consultant Scott Jennings said Sunday. (They said) the only way for us to get euphoric vindication for all the wrongs that have been done to Donald Trump is to nominate him again, and I think thats what they are going to do.

In this race, being the last candidate standing against the fellas, as Haley calls her rivals, may not mean much or last very long. It might simply be a passport to be the last candidate who gets rolled over by Trump.

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Theres just one more day for former President Donald Trump and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley to appeal to voters in the Granite State.

Despite the primary only featuring two candidates, diners at the Red Arrow Diner in Nashua say they had their minds made up months ago.

Both Trump and Haley held events in New Hampshire on Sunday.

Trump held a rally in Rochester and supporters waited in line for hours to see him. Hes claiming Haley isnt being conservative enough.

Hundreds showed up at Exeter High School to hear Haley speak. Haley claims she is the best candidate to beat President Biden.

A majority of Red Arrow diners said they would be voting for Trump, but a few are throwing their support behind Haley. They shared the issues theyre the most concerned with.

I hope they take care of me now that Im retired, said Bill Masters, a New Hampshire voter. I hope he starts bringing prices back down.

Basically he has the best policy that anyone has and thats America first, said Benjamin Michaud, a Trump supporter. You ask yourself what would he do? Its America first.

I think shes the best overall choice I like what she says about border security, I like her conservative agenda, said Jackie Southworth, a Nikki Haley supporter. I voted for Trump the first time around and its his personality his divisiveness, I dont like the negativity.

Even though the primary carries little fanfare with only two candidates and no debates, the Secretary of State is expecting a large voter turnout tomorrow.

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There isnt the usual frenzy that New Hampshire voters are used to in the days leading up to the presidential primary, which this year takes place on Jan. 23, 2024.

But even without the traditional debates between candidates and back-to-back public appearances by candidates, voters are still being inundated with advertising, including by mail, explains Dante Scala, a political science scholar and expert on elections at the University of New Hampshire. Voters there understand the particular significance of their participation in the first primary of the election season, Scala said.

The voter makeup in New Hampshire has some unique aspects, Scala explained in an interview with The Conversation. This is the main factor that could shift the expected results of Tuesday nights election.

Supporters of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump leave a campaign rally in Portsmouth, N.H., on Jan. 17, 2024. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Every four years, the national media descends on New Hampshire. What do they get wrong about the states voters?

The chief misconception is media outlets tend to group undeclared voters with independent voters. Voter registration works differently in different states. In New Hampshire, you can register as a Democrat, Republican or an undeclared voter. Undeclared means that you are undeclared toward either party, Democrat or Republican. Undeclared voters make up the largest portion of the New Hampshire electorate.

What polling reveals is that a lot of undeclared voters are really partisans. They behave as partisans, their voting patterns are partisan  except for the fact that they choose not to declare as such on the voter rolls.

Political campaigns will aid and abet that perception, saying that their candidates will be very popular here because their strategy includes reaching independent voters. That kind of strategy goes back decades.

There are true independents here, but they are a minority of those undeclared voters.

What is the purpose of registering as an undeclared voter?

They are the free agents of New Hampshire politics. People might want to be discrete about their political identity. It also allows them more freedom.

As an undeclared voter, I could go to the polls and ask for either a Democrat or a Republican ballot and can essentially become part of either party for the five minutes it takes me to vote. I can then fill out a form that then reverts me back to undeclared status.

Right now, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is losing badly to former president Donald Trump among Republican voters in New Hampshire. She is hoping that a lot of the undeclared voters show up and vote for her.

Do undeclared voters make polling less accurate in New Hampshire?

Even at the last minute, there can be volatility in turnout and voter preferences. The best example of that is in 2008, when there was a Democratic presidential primary debate just before the New Hampshire primary. Famously, a panelist asked Hillary Clinton about her likability. Clinton answered, and then candidate Barack Obama interjected, saying, Youre likable enough.

That became the stuff of legend. Women voters in New Hampshire felt that Obamas remark was condescending to a female candidate, and there was backlash against Obama. Whos to say what really moved the vote, but Clinton won in New Hampshire.

There can be a lot of last-minute volatility in a primary that polling might not catch.

To me, it feels as though the undeclared voters are the only flipping point in this election. Republicans, and especially conservative Republicans, make up a majority of the electorate here  there are a lot of moderates, but conservatives outnumber them. And current polling suggests, over and over, that conservative voters have made up their minds.

The flipping point could be an unexpectedly high turnout of undeclared voters, as well as independent voters and Democrats, registered as undeclared, who participate in the primary because they want to disrupt the Trump train and vote as undeclared. This is the biggest variable out there.

Do New Hampshire voters feel any pressure leading up to the primary?

A lot of them do. The electorate is relatively politically attentive and well educated.

This time around, though, when I turn on the evening news on the statewide TV station, there is a vibe that this is not an especially competitive race. And the national political media, as well, is saying that this New Hampshire primary is not very competitive. Will the mood on Tuesday be what it is today, which is that the outcome is all but inevitable and Trump will win?

More attentive voters will show up regardless on Tuesday, because they feel like it is their obligation. My question now is how will this attitude affect the more casual voter, if they think that the election is already determined?

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley enters a county store in Hooksett, N.H., on Jan. 18, 2024. Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images

Whats the question the media asks about New Hampshire that you never want to hear again?

Different types of media will ask different things. International media will want a primer on how the presidential nomination process works, which admittedly is complicated and hard to explain. A news site like Politico may want to do a dive on independent suburban voters.

I am getting a little tired of talking about independent voters. It is the right focus, but I am mostly tired of hearing myself talk. I have been asked repeatedly about independent voters, and my answer is not going to change much from Monday to Friday. To me, my favorite part of what happens on Tuesday night is after the polls close and I see what I got right and what I was wrong about. When all is said and done, there is this quiet, and the voters speak.

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: Dante Scala, University of New Hampshire.

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Dante Scala does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Vice President Harris on Monday torched Republicans over their abortion views and directly tied former President Trump  her and President Bidens likely 2024 opponent  to the end of Roe v. Wade.

Harris kicked off a Fight for Reproductive Freedoms tour that coincided with the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, where she excoriated Republicans who have pushed to restrict abortion access and placed the blame at the feet of Trump, the likely GOP presidential nominee.

The former president hand-picked three Supreme Court justices because he intended for them to overturn Roe. He intended for them to take your freedoms, and it is a decision he brags about, Harris said in Wisconsin, citing Trumps comments at a Fox News town hall earlier this month in which he said he was proud to have ended Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that allowed abortion on the federal level.

Proud that women across our nation are suffering? Proud that women have been robbed of a fundamental freedom? Proud that doctors could be thrown in prison for caring for their patients? That young women today have fewer rights than their mothers and grandmothers? How dare he, Harris said.

Harris traveled to Wisconsin, a key battleground state, as the Biden campaign seeks to energize voters on abortion rights. The campaign released an ad on Sunday highlighting the story of an OB-GYN who had to leave Texas for an abortion, and Biden and Harris are set to hold a rally in Virginia on Tuesday focused on abortion.

The vice president has taken on a leading role at the White House on reproductive rights following the Supreme Courts ruling that reversed Roe. She has met with dozens of activists, health care providers and individuals directly affected by abortion bans, and she has repeatedly connected the fight over abortion rights to the broader fight for personal freedoms.

In America, freedom is not to be given. It is not to be bestowed. It is ours by right, Harris said. And that includes the freedom to make decisions about ones own body. Not the government telling you what to do.

She described meeting with women who have had miscarriages because they were refused care or who were turned away because providers were worried about criminal consequences. She noted an untold number of women are silently suffering.

In the roughly 19 months since the Supreme Court struck down Roe v. Wade, Republican-led legislatures have enacted restrictions on abortion access and punishments for doctors who perform the procedure.

In Wisconsin, which Biden won by roughly 20,000 votes in 2020, Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is promising to fight a GOP supermajority Legislature that just introduced a 14-week abortion ban.

Abortion is expected to be one of the defining issues of the 2024 general election cycle, and the Biden campaign has made clear it plans to constantly remind voters of Trumps role in ending Roe v. Wade, and the support among many Republicans for passing a national abortion ban.

The issue has proven to be a galvanizing force for Democrats, with the party retaining control of the Senate, winning the Kentucky gubernatorial election, winning both chambers in the Virginia legislative elections and passing pro-abortion ballot referendums in Kansas and Ohio in the aftermath of the 2022 Supreme Court decision.

Trump, who is poised to take on President Biden in November in a rematch of 2020, has blamed Republicans handling of abortion for the partys electoral struggles. The former president has said he supports exceptions to allow for abortions in cases of rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother.

But Trump has repeatedly dodged when asked whether he would sign a national abortion ban if it came to his desk.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  Local citizen activist Gene Stilp has announced his intentions to run for the 125th seat of the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

Stilp, a Harrisburg-area activist and former congressional candidate, released a campaign announcement Monday highlighting his key accomplishments which include winning a Pennsylvania Supreme Court case to stop a controversial legislative pay raise in 2005; and winning a case against the Pennsylvania Ethics Commission overturning a gag rule and allowing Pennsylvanians to file ethics complaints without retaliation.

Stilp has also been active recently, filing a lawsuit earlier this month calling for the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court to remove Republican U.S. House Representative Scott Perry from the 2024 ballot ahead of the springs 10th Congressional District primary, due to the 14th Amendments insurrection clause.

Lawsuit seeks to remove Scott Perry from Pennsylvania ballot using 14th amendment

Stilp is also known for the creation of the Susquehanna Lady Liberty statue located in the Susquehanna River and for his inflatable pink protest pig which he used to call out Capitol lawmakers for wasting money.

Pennsylvanias 125th district seat includes parts of Dauphin County including the townships of Halifax, Jackson, Jefferson, parts of Lower Paxton, Lykens, Middle Paxton, Mifflin, Reed, Rush, Upper Paxton, Washington, Wayne, West Hanover, Wiconisco and Williams and the boroughs of Berrysburg, Dauphin, Elizabethville, Gratz, Halifax, Lykens, Millersburg, Pillow and Williamstown.

How the Mini Statue of Liberty came to be

The 125th district seat is currently held by Republican Joe Kerwin, who is seeking re-election. He has been a member of the house since 2021.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
Health officials in northwest Michigan are working to remove toxic forever chemicals from local drinking water.

Whats happening?

The state of Michigans investigation into the Pellston communitys water contamination began in 2020, after high school students sampled water from multiple residences near Pellston Regional Airport. The results from the students tests revealed that local drinking water contained maximum contaminant levels of PFAS, which are long-lasting chemicals linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals if ingested.

The alarming discovery of PFAS prompted Michigan health officials and entities to deploy multiple phases of water testing in Emmet County, where Pellston is located. A 2021 Petoskey News-Review report states that out of 146 private well samples, 44 exceeded current regulatory thresholds and 37 had low levels of PFAS.

Since most Pellston residents rely on private wells for their water supply, the presence of harmful chemicals led Michigans Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to create a robust response plan and further investigate the cause of the issue.

Why is PFAS contamination concerning?

PFAS are infamously known as forever chemicals because they break down very slowly, making their contamination difficult to control. A 2020 study by the American Chemical Society found that more than 200 million Americans could have harmful levels of PFAS in their drinking water. In addition to water, PFAS can also contaminate soil, air, food, and clothing.

Exposure to even extremely low levels of PFAS poses hazardous risks to human health.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to certain levels of PFAS can cause severe disruptions to ones reproductive system, immune system, or hormone levels. Exposure to PFAS is also linked to abnormal childhood development, an increased risk of some cancers, and increased cholesterol levels.

Whats being done about PFAS contamination?

Based on regional groundwater flow, researchers concluded that Pellston Regional Airport was the source of the areas PFAS contamination. EGLE holds Emmet County liable for remediating the areas waters, as noted in the organizations violation notice to the district.

In 2022, EGLE provided Pellston with an $819,000 grant for the research and development of alternate water sources to aid residents affected by water contamination. In the last year, Pellston completed various evaluations for potential water service areas and solutions. The Michigan government also continues to monitor the areas PFAS levels and provides bottled water, water vouchers, and filter installations to residents in need.

Another phase of water well resampling in the affected area is under way. Residents can download the EGLE/Health Department of NW Michigan PFAS Sampling Request Form to participate in the upcoming sample.

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MADISON, Wis. (WFRV)  A call for a potential heart attack in Wisconsin turned out to be a case of heartbreak for one avid Packers fan Saturday night after the teams loss against the San Francisco 49ers.

According to the Madison Police Department, authorities were sent to a home after someone in Missouri called for emergency services on behalf of her aunt, a Madison resident who was reportedly having a heart attack.

HSHS & Prevea Health closing all facilities in western Wisconsin, locations in eastern Wisconsin remain unchanged

The caller said they were very concerned for her aunt, according to the 911 dispatchers relaying information to emergency service personnel.

Upon arriving on the scene, the person in question came out of the front door smiling, shaking her head, waving her hands, and apologizing to paramedics.

The woman explained that she had been watching the Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers NFC Divisional Round matchup and was texting with her niece in Missouri.

Welfare check leads to officer-involved shootout in Oneida County, one person dead

During a tense back-and-forth win or go home playoff game, she texted, Im having a heart attack! The message was intended figuratively, not literally.

Confirming there was no medical emergency, only a broken heart, the Madison Fire Department and emergency personnel returned to their duties.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
Flooding caused by excessive rainfall has led to the closure of more than 80 roads near low water crossings as of Monday afternoon, spanning from Georgetown and Cedar Park down to San Marcos. Multiple low water crossings are closed in across Austin, including a large portion of Spicewood Springs Road, according to ATX Floods.

As of noon Monday, the National Weather Service's Camp Mabry station has reported an accumulation of more than 3 inches of rainfall since the rain started Sunday night, setting a new daily record.

The National Weather Service predicts heavy rainfall until Wednesday, with some areas of Central Texas projected to receive upward of 4 inches of rain. The rainfall will be concentrated along and east of the Interstate 35 corridor, spurring the service to issue a flood advisory for eastern portions of Travis and central Williamson counties, according to meteorologist Keith White.

See live map: Road conditions, closures in Central Texas as excessive rainfall hits

A worker with the City of Austin Watershed Protection Department tries to clear the drainage on Steck Avenue which had to be closed in the westbound lanes near Mopac Boulevard during a rain storm on Monday January 22, 2024.

Temperatures are forecast to stay well above freezing, averaging in the high 50s during the day, eliminating any possibility of icy roads. On Tuesday, highs will be in the upper 60s. However, the pooling water and heavy rain could still create hazardous road conditions.

Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services has not seen an uptick in calls related to flooding, spokesperson Rachael Lewis said.

Multiple low water crossings have been closed, spanning from Georgetown and Cedar Park down to San Marcos, according to the ATX Floods.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Flooding from excessive rainfall closes roads around Central Texas
Moisture from the Gulf of Mexico began to unleash heavy rain across the southern United States on Monday, threatening the region with flash floods and rising waterways, as torrential rain fell over parts of northern California.

On Sunday, downpours were reported in southern and central Texas, where flood warnings were issued by the National Weather Service ahead of additional storms. Parts of Houston had collected up to 4 inches of rain early Monday. Sections of major highways in San Antonio were shut down because of flooding.

More than 11,000 utility customers in Texas were without power Monday morning, according to a database maintained by USA TODAY.

Throughout the week, the swath of moisture will bring between 2 to 4 inches of rain from Texas to northern Georgia, western North Carolina and West Virginia, according to AccuWeather. The week's heaviest rainfall is forecast to hit parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee.

Thunderstorms expected to break out in states along the Gulf Coast on Tuesday and Wednesday could have damaging storms winds with gusts as high as 70 mph, AccuWeather said.

Cars cross streets flooded from an overnight storms of strong winds and rain. in New Castle, Ohio Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024

'Weather whiplash:' Out of the freezer and into the warmth with rain, flooding this week

Storms in northern California; freezing rain to lash Midwest

In northern California, heavy rain is expected throughout the week. Coastal and flash flood warnings were active in northern California and southern Oregon on Monday, according to the weather service.

Residents in some parts of Sonoma County in northern California, which encompasses Santa Rosa, were told to prepare for evacuations amid local flooding and downpours. Downed trees closed major roads and caused damage throughout the Bay Area overnight and early Monday morning. Over 6,800 households were without power, according to a USA TODAY database.

Road Closure: Downed tree blocking 4th Av from Dartmouth to S. El Camino Real. Use an alternate route until approx. 1p for tree removal. Drive cautiously in the rain and be aware of your surroundings to prevent hazards and/or injury. We'll advise when the road has been reopened. pic.twitter.com/XKwOxviayh  San Mateo Police Department (@SanMateoPD) January 22, 2024

A lull in the wet weather will follow on Tuesday before more downpours are forecast for northern California.

As the artic air that plunged temperatures in the Plains, Midwest and Northeast into single digits over the weekend moves east, the channel of moisture will quickly follow in its path, the weather service said. Over the week, parts of the Midwest will receive periods of freezing rain and sleet as temperatures rise. The first rain is expected in the lower Great Lakes by Monday night.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Flash flood warnings in Texas, California. Freezing rain in Midwest
A woman walks by cars damaged by floods during a rainstorm in San Diego on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

SAN DIEGO (AP)  Flash floods inundated homes and overturned cars in San Diego on Monday as torrential rain swept through a large swath of the U.S., toppling trees and overflowing streets across California.

Early morning flooding hit the town of Guerneville, north of San Francisco, where a creek overflowed after more than 4 inches (10 cm) of rain fell in 24 hours. The local school district canceled classes for the day.

Later, the weather system unleashed a severe punch on the south end of the state in the second major rain event of the winter.

Floodwaters swept away vehicles and caused cars to pile on top of each other in parts of San Diego. Several feet of water inundated the Mountain View, Shelltown and Southcrest neighborhoods, and multiple highways including Interstate 15.

Eddie Ochoa, a resident of San Diego, said it was just sprinkling when he and his sister went out for breakfast Monday morning. When they returned to their family-owned auto body shop, the entire block was flooded and his sister's parked car had been washed away.

All that happened within an hour, Ochoa said, guessing that the sewers had backed up. They later found his sister's car about three miles (4.8 kilometers) down the street.

Its never been that bad, ever. Its crazy, he said.

Over a three-hour period, a whopping 3 inches (7.6 cm) of rain fell at nearby National City, while 2 inches (5 cm) fell at San Diego International Airport, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported. During the winter, the region typically averages around 2 inches of rain per month.

Deputies pulled people to safety after water rushed into homes in the Spring Valley and Casa de Oro neighborhoods, said San Diego County Sheriffs Lt. Zee Sanchez. Other residents escaped by wading through waist-high water carrying their cats and dogs.

Flooding is pretty widespread out there, Sanchez said. The department aided in a swift-water rescue near Santee, he said. No injuries were reported.

The San Diego River was flooding, the National Weather Service said, warning that crossing roads would be unsafe. The city fire department said it had rescued at least 24 people from the rushing San Diego and Tijuana rivers.

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria declared a state of emergency and the city set up shelters to house displaced residents.

The Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management issued an evacuation warning near Topanga Canyon effective through Tuesday morning due to possible mud or debris flow.

Up north, there's an avalanche warning through Tuesday morning for the backcountry in the mountains around the Lake Tahoe area, which might see more than a foot (30 centimeters) of snow, according to The Sierra Avalanche Center in Truckee, California. The storm is expected to bring up to 8 inches (20 cm) of snow to the lakes shores and up to 14 inches (35 cm) with winds gusting up to 60 mph (95 kph) in the highest elevations beginning late Monday.

In San Antonio, Texas, firefighters investigated whether five homeless people might have been swept away by rushing waters early Monday morning, according to fire department spokesperson Woody Woodward. They were camping in drainage tunnels next to a highway north of downtown, officials said.

Firefighters searched multiple locations, including drainage tunnels with the help of a boat, but did not find anyone.

No individuals were found, so I cannot confirm if there were in fact five people swept away, Woodward said, adding that the fire department had conducted 25 water rescue missions or investigation calls from late Sunday night through 8 a.m. Monday with no injuries being reported.

Some parts of the San Antonio area had received up to 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) of rain since Sunday night, according to the National Weather Service. Rainfall was also soaking Houston, Dallas, as well as various parts of north and east Texas.

In other parts of the country, as in Arkansas, there's freezing rain. Forecasters warned that up to a half-inch (1.27 centimeters) of ice could coat parts of the state by Monday evening. That prompted an ice storm warning that includes much of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and the cities of Fayetteville and Fort Smith. A small part of northeastern Oklahoma was also under an ice storm warning Monday, the National Weather Service said.

The ice  combined with winds of up to 20 mph (32 kph)  could lead to power outages, the agency said.

Days of subfreezing temperatures have caused water problems in multiple Arkansas cities and in Memphis, Tennessee, due to broken pipes and equipment.

Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers responded to more than 400 crashes and at least 600 stranded motorists by 3:30 p.m. Monday, Capt. John Hotz of the patrol said. Three of the accidents were fatal, including one involving a vehicle that struck a Missouri Department of Transportation truck in rural northern Missouri. A transportation department spokeswoman said the truck driver was not hurt. Portions of interstates 70 and 44 were closed at the height of the icing, with officials describing the roadways as sheets of ice.

Just lots of slide-offs, said Dallas Thompson, a St. Louis-area trooper.

Around the country, the wintry weather and heavy rainfall was expected to continue this week.

Freezing rain and some snowfall was predicted for parts of the Midwest, the lower Great Lakes area and the Northeast, the National Weather Service said.

Parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and the Gulf Coast were predicted to have heavy showers and thunderstorms from Tuesday through Thursday, with some areas getting as much as 4 inches (10 centimeters) to 8 inches (20 centimeters) of rain through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

___

Weber reported from Los Angeles. Juan A. Lozano in Houston, Jim Salter in OFallon, Missouri, Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, Jeff Martin in Atlanta, Scott Sonner in Reno, Nevada, and John Antczak in Los Angeles contributed to this report.
For those who didnt already know what was going on, the emergency room at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth probably looked the same as it always did. But in the minds of the doctors and nurses, the afternoon of Jan. 8 was anything but ordinary.

They maintained a sense of calm, but the urgency was palpable to those who knew what was happening. Information was limited. A call from MedStar came in at about 3:30 that an explosion had rocked downtown Fort Worth. The hospital would start seeing the survivors coming in at any minute.

The medical staff at Texas Health Fort Worth didnt know at the time that the gas explosion at the Sandman Signature, a hotel in a historic downtown skyscraper, had injured at least 21 people, one in critical condition and four serious. They didnt know people had been trapped under rubble, a couple was stuck in an elevator or people were unaccounted for. They didnt know how many patients they would be getting or what types of injuries they would see.

They did know, though, that they had to be ready for anything and that patients would start arriving at any minute.

Trauma response

Chakeria Bracey had only been on the clock for 30 minutes on Jan. 8 when the call came in.

Information was limited, but MedStar said there was an explosion downtown and it was clear that they needed Texas Health Fort Worth and several other hospitals to be ready to receive patients. Its a scenario Bracey, the charge nurse running the emergency room at the time, has spent countless hours training for along with all the other nurses, doctors and staff in the department.

It was already a busy day, with around 120 patients already in the ER and another 40 on hold. So Bracey started her shift by looking at the number of patients and deciding how to manage their care with the staffing she had.

A busy day, but not an unusual one for a Level 1 trauma center ER.

But when MedStar called the hospital, that instantly changed. First responders werent able to share a lot of details, just that there was a possible mass casualty incident and that the emergency room should be ready to receive survivors.

What they did know, though: They needed to be ready to take in and treat as many patients as they were brought.

There was a sense of calm, Bracey said. It was like, its happening, we have to deal with it.

After training in scenarios that ranged from massive scales to smaller events, the ER staff has been able to get the time it takes to prepare for a large number of trauma patients down to less than 10 minutes. Braceys first task was to look at resources available and determine how many explosion patients the hospital could take in.

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Before the first ambulance pulled up at the emergency room, the hospital had 10 operating rooms ready for explosion patients. Elective surgeries were rescheduled. The ER made 12 rooms ready for patients in a matter of minutes. Trauma doctors and surgeons were ready and standing by.

Triage was established to determine the severity of injuries. Respiratory and heart specialists almost immediately volunteered their expertise and a helping hand. The blood bank set up to provide for patients. Supervisors readied themselves to coordinate treatment and resources. And beds in the intensive care unit were made available for any survivors who needed them.

Bracey, along with charge nurses Peter Gailiunas and Taylor Ballesteros, trauma surgeons Jennifer Grant and Ashleigh Fontenot and medical director Dr. Terence McCarthy were in a mindset crafted by adrenaline, determination and muscle memory.

Survivors

We never know what were getting from something like this, Grant said. The report is always not accurate because youre still trying to get information.

Thats why so many doctors and nurses were ready. A disaster garners volunteers from all over the hospital, the doctors, nurses and administrators who were involved in the response to the explosion told the Star-Telegram. Even the chaplains responded to provide spiritual guidance and help the survivors process the trauma of the explosion.

Until the patients are on the way to the hospital, theres little to no clue as to what doctors and nurses will see. MedStar paramedics called in with basic details about the people they were treating en route to the hospital, but the full extent of injuries isnt always clear until they arrive.

And they dont show up one by one. Usually, patients show up multiple at a time. When the ambulances pull up, theyre greeted by disaster triage to determine how severe their injuries are.

One patient was trapped under rubble and another had a severe laceration. Three more had other serious injuries. The doctors and nurses treated things like blunt trauma, cuts, and gas and smoke inhalation.

While the patients are coming in, a sense of time is warped. Even with all the training, and despite the calmness they felt, the urgency of their tasks was palpable.

There was a lot of anxious energy but also a lot of sereneness about the whole thing, a calmness, Gailiunas said. We were all excited in a way, obviously not that anybody could be injured but that we could put our training to use and serve our community in a beneficial way.

That was echoed by many of the medical staff. They said that they hoped they would never have a need to use the training, but when the time came it was good to see how everyone worked together so seamlessly.

Corey Wilson, the chief operating officer, said every disaster response is driven by the scenario. On 9/11, people in New York walked up to hospitals and medical staff were standing outside, ready to bring them in. When a mass shooter opened fire at a country music festival in Las Vegas in 2017, people drove themselves or others to hospitals in private cars.

We dont know what to expect at that point but it was still a controlled environment, Wilson said. It didnt matter if they came by their own vehicle or if they came by the ambulance, they were ready to take those patients regardless.

Training

Alyssa Kaminsky, a charge nurse and chair of the hospitals disaster committee, has worked over the past year to prepare medical staff to respond to things like the explosion downtown. Last October, Texas Health Fort Worth held a large-scale training exercise that brought in doctors and nurses from across the hospital along with paramedics.

In the scenario, a person plowed through a crowd of people and then got out and opened fire. Actors played victims and the nurses and doctors were required to treat it like a real mass casualty incident. Paramedics showed up with patients with blunt force injuries and gunshot wounds. At one point, the attacker and a police officer showed up at the same time, both having shot each other, and the emergency room had to find a way to secure them both and keep them separated.

Smaller trainings arent planned. In a lot of cases, the charge nurse running the ER is randomly handed a sticky note with a disaster scenario, like train wreck or mass shooting, and the number of victims. That nurse has to organize the staff and prepare the ER as if it were a real disaster.

The hospital calls them micro training sessions, and they do them so often that the first response to the real explosion downtown almost felt like another drill. Bracey said that because they have drilled disaster scenarios so often, muscle memory just kicked in.

This time it was different, sure. There was more emotion, more urgency, but the doctors and nurses credited the training and drills with their ability to stay calm and work efficiently.

At the end of the day

ER staff does not leave the [emergency department] during a disaster or mass casualty, Ballesteros said.

Even after patients stopped arriving at the hospital, the emergency room was filled with the same energy. The staff wearing vests identifying them as those treating explosion patients didnt relax until their days were over.

When they walked out the door, the adrenaline that comes with a disaster like the explosion disappeared and the day caught up to them. They left exhausted with a need to process everything theyd seen.

The drive home was silent, Ballesteros said.

Hospital administrators said they do everything they can to take care of the staff who care for others. They have counseling available and access to the chaplains.

But in the end, the doctors and nurses said the feeling theyre left with is positive.

We all looked at each other and we sort of said, We did this,  Gailiunas said. It really is an incredible thing to see.

He said Bracey deserves a lot of credit for managing everything during the disaster response, calling it a Herculean task.

Ballesteros said the nurses and doctors do all the training hoping that they never have to use it, but that when her day was done she was glad she was one of the people who helped people.

I went home that night with a really, really proud heart, Ballesteros said. You have this immense pride already in what you do, and then you have these days and its just cool that you get to do this.
A Republican legislator said he co-sponsored an abortion ban bill while understanding it won't become law because he wants to show his constituents he is anti-abortion.

Rep. Brett Fairchild, R-St. John, is one of eight Republican representatives sponsoring House Bill 2492.

"This bill would defend the lives of unborn children beginning at the moment of conception, with an exception for the life of the mother," Fairchild said in a Facebook post announcing the filing of the bill. "The bill would be enforced through a private cause of action for civil enforcement."

But Fairchild acknowledged in comments that the bill, if it ever passed, would likely never become an effective law because it would be struck down by the courts.

"I understand," he said, "but I still want to demonstrate to the voters of my district that I'm strongly pro-life by introducing and co-sponsoring pro-life legislation."

Anti-abortion protesters with AIM Kansas and counter-protesters with The Satanic Grotto took to the steps of the Statehouse last spring. This month, eight Republican legislators introduced an abortion ban bill.

Kansans for Life isn't backing the abortion ban bill

Kansans for Life, the state's most influential anti-abortion group, is not supporting the bill.

The organization also said that Fairchild's bill has no chance of becoming law.

"Kansans for Life is focused on what the abortion industry does not do: Showing authentic care and compassion for women facing unexpected pregnancies," said Mackenzie Haddix, a KFL spokesperson. "Now, more than ever, is the time to focus on policies that actually save lives instead of proposals that have zero chance of becoming law and will never save a single life due to the Kansas Supreme Court's extreme 2019 Hodes ruling.

"It is clear far too many women are being pushed to believe abortion is their only choice. Our legislative agenda seeks to provide compassionate help for any woman in need."

Kansans for Life has its own legislative agenda, which will be detailed more fully on Wednesday at the organization's annual March and Rally for Life at the Statehouse.

National group thinks Kansas abortion ban would circumvent courts

Students for Life Action, a national organization based in Virginia, took credit for the bill in a news release.

The organization also introduced a companion bill in the Senate last year, Senate Bill 286, which never got a hearing.

The organization said the language is based off language from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Wyoming laws and is "designed to bypass current court rulings and activist judges to stop abortions in Kansas."

The Kansas Supreme Court's 2019 ruling found that the state constitution protects abortion rights.

That prompted a failed effort to amend the Kansas Constitution to declare that there is no right to an abortion. Kansas voters overwhelmingly rejected the so-called Value Them Both Amendment in August 2022.

"Oh you thought we were done in Kansas? Wrong," Students for Life Action said in a post on X.

"When people say 'the people have spoken on the issue,' the reality is that the majority of voters can't take away a fundamental right that all people possess," Fairchild said. "The Kansas Constitution guarantees a right to life, and the Kansas legislature has a responsibility to enforce the right to life that's enshrined in the Kansas Constitution."

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, which is working to break Republican supermajorities in the Kansas Legislature, called the 2022 vote a "mandate from voters."

"Kansas voters made it crystal clear in 2022 that they want abortion rights protections to stay, and Kansas Republican legislators are flying directly in the face of the will of Kansans," said DLCC spokesperson Abhi Rahman. "This dangerous proposal is insulting to the Kansas voters who showed up in 2022 to affirm their support for the protection of fundamental freedoms and once again shows the importance of winning state legislatures, where most legislation that affects your day-to-day life gets done."

What would the abortion ban bill do?

HB 2492 would ban abortion "except when necessary to preserve the life of a pregnant woman in a medical emergency."

It would also ban abortion pills from being manufactured, distributed, prescribed, dispensed or provided in any other way. Misoprostol, but not mifepristone, would have an explicit allowance to be used for miscarriage.

Violations would be "enforced exclusively through the private civil enforcement actions provided" for in the bill, including a minimum of $10,000 in damages for every abortion attempted or performed.

"Even this bill will still be seen as 'radical' by most legislators and outside observers," Fairchild said.

He has also introduced House Bill 2515, which would allow an injured "individual who survived an abortion" to sue the doctor.

"I don't know whether or not there are any individuals in Kansas who have survived an attempted abortion, but I know that there are a lot of different stories from people all around the world who have survived an abortion," Fairchild said. "Many of these people have obtained injuries from these attempted abortions. I believe these people should have legal recourse and should be able to obtain compensation for their injuries."

Jason Alatidd is a Statehouse reporter for the Topeka Capital-Journal. He can be reached by email at jalatidd@gannett.com. Follow him on X @Jason_Alatidd.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Why a new Kansas abortion ban bill has 'zero chance' at becoming law
Chinese FM says support all efforts promoting restoration of peace

Xinhua) 09:45, January 22, 2024

BRASILIA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- China supports all efforts aimed at preventing the escalation of conflicts and promoting the restoration of peace, 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.

Wang said China condemns all acts that harm civilians, and opposes any violation of international law.

On the situation in the Red Sea, Wang said China calls for an end to the harassment of civilian vessels, and urges relevant parties to avoid adding fuel to the fire, jointly safeguard the security of the sea lanes in accordance with the law, and earnestly respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries bordering the Red Sea, including Yemen.

On the conflict in Gaza, Wang said the Palestinian issue has always been the core of the Middle East issue, and China firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people to restore their legitimate national rights and their long-cherished aspiration to build an independent state.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
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The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has announced the designs created by local high school students that won an annual safety outreach contest.

Students from across Pennsylvania submitted designs for the annual Paint the Plow program, which promotes winter driving safety. The public voted on their favorite designs two weeks ago and now PennDOT is announcing the winners.

For PennDOT District 12, which represents Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties, the public chose Yough Senior High Schools entry as its Fan Favorite.

The design shows the schools mascot buckling a seatbelt, conveying this years theme of seatbelts are always in season.

PennDOT representatives also vote on a Judges Pick. They also selected Yough Senior High School as its winner, giving Kiski High School an honorable mention.

For PennDOT District 11, which represents Allegheny, Beaver and Lawrence County, the public chose the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Allegheny County as its Fan Favorite.

PennDOT representatives chose Freedom Area High School for the Judges Pick.

For PennDOT District 10, which represents Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Indiana and Jefferson counties, the public chose Keystone School District as its Fan Favorite.

During the winter season, all of the blade designs submitted by area high schools will be used to maintain state-owned roadways in the district they were submitted.

PennDOT plans to announce the winners in other area districts throughout this week.

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The glaring absence of Hispanic or immigrant representation in the bipartisan Senate border policy negotiations has gone largely overlooked, despite repeated appeals to diversify the voices at the table.

The ongoing snub of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) puts in question whether the groups political clout has grown on par with its numbers.

Talks have been mostly led by Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), though others including Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) have publicly chimed in.

The White House has endorsed the talks, which appear to be eyeing a trade of hawkish border policy reforms for funding for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, as has Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).

For months, CHC members have raised their concerns publicly and privately, but the calls for inclusion have apparently gone unheard.

The old saying that if youre not in the room, youre on the menu  it may very well be the case here. And so, it is alarming to me, said Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), the most senior CHC member in the Senate.

It would be like writing civil rights legislation and voting legislation and having none of the African American members of the Senate or the Black Caucus in the House be involved.

Neither the White House nor Schumers office responded to multiple requests for comment.

Historically, the CHC has not played a significant role in enacted border policy legislation, though, over the past decade, the group has been involved both in comprehensive and piecemeal efforts to reform border and immigration laws, none of which have made it to the finish line.

Immigration advocates are infuriated by the lack of transparency in Senate negotiations, in part because they mirror legislative processes in 1996 and 2006 that engendered enforcement-centric border and immigration policies that included few, if any, benefits for immigrants.

While the exact contents of the negotiations remain unknown, CHC members and advocates say negotiators such as Murphy and Lankford lack the lived experience of immigrant communities who have dealt with the business end of border laws written behind closed doors.

The CHC has been the lead voice and advocate on immigration policy in Congress for decades. Many of the members have personal experiences, whether theyre immigrants themselves or the children of immigrants, said CHC Chair Rep. Nanette Barragan (D-Calif.).

And thats why this is so disheartening for the caucus to be kept out of the room. Its deeply troubling, and you know, we still are available and ready and we need a strong voice at the table that represents our communities, but also understands the immigration issues and whats at stake.

A highly publicized sticking point in negotiations has been the executives power to parole immigrants  essentially to grant legal status by fiat  in individual cases.

The focus of political debate has centered on the Biden administrations use of parole to allow recently arrived migrants to enter or remain in the United States and work under certain conditions.

But advocates say paroles purpose goes far beyond that and serves an array of humanitarian purposes, including allowing foreign nationals without visas access to emergency or specialized medical care; allowing beneficiaries of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and green card applicants to travel internationally; or allowing undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to regularize their status.

Border management and crossings and whatnot needs to be managed, but it cannot be done at the cost of the long-term workforce thats been here working and paying taxes, said Rebecca Shi, executive director of the American Business Immigration Coalition.

And [removing parole] is not only not fair, but it also hurts the economy. And its not supported by the majority of American voters who either live with an undocumented person in their household, or you know, somebody in their neighborhood or in their Little League or someone they work with.

Shi said 1.1 million U.S. citizens are married to undocumented immigrants, and in a vast majority of cases, parole is the only path for those spouses to regularize their status.

The disparity between prevailing border policy recommendations and the reported contents of negotiations have raised suspicions that the deals policy outcomes come a distant second to the politics of presenting voters with an appearance of forward motion on border enforcement.

One has to wonder, if by assertively leaving out members of Congress who represent some of the most directly impacted border communities and cities experiencing this issue, one has to wonder if that means that they were not necessarily looking at this negotiation as a way to truly address the problem, said Clarissa Martinez De Castro, vice president of the Latino Vote Initiative at UnidosUS.

The CHCs exclusion is also hurting Biden administration allies outside of government.

Jose Borjon, a political strategist at Akin Gump, said it makes it harder for consultants to guide their clients through the workings of immigration policy in Congress.

There are a number of people at the White House who know exactly who the CHC members are. Im hopeful theyre not leaving them out of the meetings with intent, but rather strategically to be added at a later date, said Borjon. Its never too late to rectify.

But CHC members largely see a strategy of excluding the group to build a package that will thread a bipartisan path around opposition from immigration advocates.

Menendez said Bidens calculus hinges on the balance between a legacy item  Ukraine  and a perceived political liability at the border.

And, you know, the president just hasnt had a long history of engagement with the Hispanic community. Thats just a reality, he said.

But Senate leadership, according to Menendez, is excluding the CHC out of political expediency.

As it relates to Senator Schumer, hes just made a calculus, that at the end of the day, hes going to seek to roll us because he figures that with Ukraine aid, Israel aid, Indo-Pacific aid, and with enough Republicans coming on board for it, that he doesnt necessarily need us even if we will object and vote against it for arguments sake, said Menendez.

Its a very crass political judgment, that somehow, Theyll be OK, theyll get over it, that type of thing.

Menendez added that the CHC has historically lacked a willingness to punch back, unlike the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), the model for demographic-minority representation, which has shown a willingness to shake the institution and the establishment to its core.

The Hispanic Caucus is more, you know, has historically been  not talking about the present leadership  more accommodating, less confrontational, and the result of that is that there is the sense that you can roll them, said Menendez.

Language from a potential Murphy-Lankford agreement is expected as early as Tuesday, and a bill with backing from President Biden, Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) would likely sail through the Senate, even assuming opposition from the four CHC members and some progressives.

The math could be more difficult in the House, where a majority of the CHC is likely to oppose the bill, potentially with support from some members of the CBC, the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

The CHC has 37 voting members in the House, though four of them recently voted  along with 10 other Democrats  for a resolution condemning Bidens border policies and might be more likely to vote for a Murphy-Lankford deal.

And its unknown whether Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) would even bring such a bill to the floor if it falls short of GOP hard-line demands on the border.

Its also unclear how many Republicans would vote against a deal out of opposition to Ukraine funding.

Theyre gonna have to count on a lot of Republican votes to pass something like that. I mean, look, you had Lindsey Graham and Mitch McConnell saying that they would never get these kinds of deep changes to immigration policy and asylum policy, even under Donald Trump, said Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas).

The support of figures including Graham and McConnell has many Democrats perplexed at the structure of the deal, which reportedly includes few, if any, concessions to help immigrant communities straighten out their paperwork.

Lindsey Graham said that theyre basically overjoyed that theyre going to be able to get concessions on immigration policy without even offering a path to legalization for people like Dreamers. And so it just doesnt make sense, the way this negotiation has been carried out, said Castro.

Updated at 1:21 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
LANSING The newly elected  but disputed  chair of the Michigan Republican Party says he's not interested in relitigating the results of the 2020 presidential election. His energies are focused on next November, with a sense of urgency, he says.

Pete Hoekstra

Pete Hoekstra's remarks mark a significant difference in tone and content from those of Kristina Karamo, who was elected the chair of the Michigan Republican Party at a state convention last February and says Hoekstra's election by state committee members at a meeting held Saturday in Lansing was unlawful.

"We are just past the third anniversary of Joe Biden's inauguration into the presidency," Hoekstra, a former GOP congressman from west Michigan who was former President Donald Trump's ambassador to the Netherlands, said in a Monday phone interview with the Free Press.

"Somehow, I don't think we're going to be able to overturn the 2020 election, if it hasn't happened already," he said. "There's not even a constitutional provision as to how to make that happen, other than impeachment."

Instead, Hoekstra said he is focusing his urgent energy on November and party unity, because "we have to do in about eight months what normally a party will do in a year and a half in terms of raising money, putting in place the infrastructure, getting vendors, putting all the operational aspects into a campaign."

Karamo is criticized for lackluster funding, among other issues. She counters that her opponents, and the state party administration that preceded her, belong to a "uniparty" that works against conservative interests.

Hoekstra said he has already had talks with the trust composed of past state party chairs that owns the former state party headquarters in Lansing that Karamo closed and he hopes to reopen it soon.

Karamo and her backers say state party bylaws were not followed when her opponents on the Michigan Republican State Committee voted to remove her on Jan. 6. She and her administration still control the state party website, and, more importantly, its bank accounts. At a Jan. 13 meeting, a separate contingent of state committee members gave Karamo's leadership a resounding endorsement.

Hoekstra said there is no way currently to make a political donation to the Michigan Republican Party that will go to support his work, since checks written to that entity can only be cashed by the Karamo administration. He said he was on the way to a meeting in Grand Rapids Monday to discuss whether there is any lawful workaround related to donations.

Party members who oppose Karamo filed a lawsuit Friday in Kent County Circuit Court, seeking a judge's declaration that her ouster was lawful.

But Hoekstra said he believes and hopes the Republican National Committee will settle the issue before it works its way through the judicial system. If the RNC says he is the lawful chair, the courts will likely accept that, since the state party is a private organization, he said.

"The RNC has to rule on this in terms of who exactly they are going to recognize," Hoekstra said.

As of late Monday afternoon, the RNC still showed Karamo as the Michigan chair representative on the committee.

He said he has not spoken about the issue with Ronna McDaniel, the Michigan resident who chairs the RNC, but has had discussions with Michigan Republican National Committeeman Dr. Rob Steele.

Steele told the Free Press he expects the RNC to outline a process  possibly early this week and ahead of its meetings in Las Vegas next week  for determining who will fill the seat of the Michigan GOP chair on the national committee. But that doesnt automatically legally settle whether that person formally takes over as the recognized chairman of the state partys operations itself: That question still resides with the state party members and, in this case, possibly the courts, he said.

The RNC seats its members, it doesnt have any legal control over the state party, said Steele, who acknowledged that RNC lawyers are carefully monitoring the controversy playing out in the Michigan GOP. In this case, I suspect (whoever the RNC recognizes), it wouldnt be resolved.

He noted McDaniel and many other top RNC leaders are current or former state party chairs and there is recognition that state GOP groups dont want the national party to dictate local leadership questions. But Steele, who on Monday endorsed Trump for the partys nomination, said the question of who is assuming leadership of the party is a vital given the two-part primary/convention structure for awarding delegates the state party is attempting on Feb. 27 and March 2.

Hoekstra said he isn't overly concerned about the convention delegate issue because he expects the Republican nomination fight for president to be settled as early as Tuesday, when the results of the New Hampshire primary are known.

Hoekstra said he prefers primaries to caucuses for making such decisions. The Michigan GOP under Karamo has opted for a system for choosing delegates to the national convention that is based partly on the Feb. 27 Michigan primary and partly on a caucus-style nominating convention to be held March 2. Hoekstra said he isn't interested in trying to change that, because there is too little time to do so.

Asked if he has made any outreach to Karamo about resolving the dispute, Hoekstra said he has not. He said he was disturbed by a recent media interview in which Karamo was quoted as saying that party unity was not part of her job.

"Unity is my number one objective," he said. Based on those remarks, it's difficult to see where there is common ground between him and Karamo, he said.

Hoekstra said he believes there were irregularities in the 2020 presidential election, but he has no idea whether they affected the outcome and is not interested in wasting time exploring the issues. He cited U.S. intelligence sources describing as Russian disinformation stories arising from a laptop owned by Hunter Biden, when subsequent reporting has shown the reported contents of the laptop were authentic. Hoekstra also pointed to national intelligence officials communicating with social media companies to help them identify disinformation, which he said was outside the jurisdiction of the agencies involved. One of the state party committees he will establish will deal with election integrity, he said.

Though Trump and many of his supporters have been highly critical of absentee voting in the past, Hoekstra said he will encourage voters supporting Republican candidates to vote absentee or at the polls, based on whatever works best for them.

With the possibility of late developments such as snowstorms, "I don't want us to say we're going to bank all of our votes until Election Day," he said.

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, @paulegan4.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Pete Hoekstra, chosen to replace Kristina Karamo in Michigan GOP feud
LANSING  The anti-Karamo wing of the Michigan Republican Party on Saturday elected former GOP congressman Pete Hoekstra their new party chair, intensifying a power struggle between two warring factions that is now before the courts.

Members of the Michigan Republican State Committee who voted Jan. 6 to remove Kristina Karamo as party chair convened at a Lansing hotel Saturday and elected Hoekstra to replace her, after two ballots in a three-candidate contest.

But Karamo, who declared the Jan. 6 meeting unlawful and saw her supporters overwhelmingly endorse her leadership at a Jan. 13 meeting, says she remains the party's lawful leader. As of Saturday morning, Karamo was still listed as state party chair on the website of the Republican National Committee, which has not otherwise weighed in on the dispute.

The anti-Karamo faction filed a lawsuit in Kent County Circuit Court late Friday in an attempt to force Karamo out of office. On Thursday, Karamo and her supporters sent "cease and desist" letters to many of the leading dissenters, threatening legal action for copyright and trademark infringement, as well as defamation.

Hoekstra was elected to the disputed party chair position over Lena Epstein, a businesswoman who lost a bid for U-M regent in 2022 and was a candidate for state party chair last February, when Karamo was elected at a state convention, and Vance Patrick, who chairs the Oakland County Republican Party.

"We began the road to success today," Hoekstra wrote on social media after the vote.

Patrick, who runs a construction company with his son, placed third on the first ballot and threw his support to Hoekstra. About 70 votes were cast on each of the two ballots.

Hoekstra was seen as a possible bridge between the party's grassroots and its more traditional supporters. He's a former Republican congressman from West Michigan who served as U.S. ambassador to the Netherlands under former President Donald Trump.

Hoekstra represented the 2nd District, including Holland, in the U.S. House from 1993 through 2010. He placed second to former Gov. Rick Snyder in the GOP gubernatorial primary in 2010 and lost a U.S. Senate bid to Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow in 2012.

Hoekstra was born in the Netherlands and immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 3, but has told supporters Holland has always been his home, according to Holland Sentinel archives.

Karamo criticized Hoekstra and his election in a social media post Saturday afternoon.

"As chair of the Michigan Republican Party, we will not allow for the party to be stolen," she said. "Stop the charade and focus on winning in 2024."

But at least one sitting GOP congressman congratulated Hoekstra on his election.

"I look forward to working with you to put America First, hold our battleground ... seat, and deliver victories for conservatives up and down the ballot this November," U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, wrote on social media.

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In a significant move, Epstein, who co-owns a Southfield-based oil company, pledged before Saturday's vote to donate $500,000 in "seed money" and secure a line of credit with a bank if elected chair, in an effort to ease the party's significant financial woes. But she lost on the second ballot after narrowly trailing Hoekstra on the first.

Karamo's opponents, like her, are strong supporters of Trump. They cited lackluster fundraising, interference with county party affairs, and a lack of transparency as reasons for ousting her. A candidate forum for the chair's race, held Thursday evening, and Saturday's election by state committee members, were closed to the media and general public.

 Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, @paulegan4.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Holland's Pete Hoekstra elected MIGOP chair by anti-Karamo activists
Devin Ratray, pictured in 2017, played the older brother in the beloved Christmas movie, "Home Alone."

The domestic assault trial for "Home Alone" actor Devin Ratray has been called off because the judge was told Ratray was being hospitalized "in critical condition" in New York.

Ratray, now 47, played Buzz McAllister in the classic 1990 Christmas movie and its 1992 sequel. He lives in New York.

Jury selection in his felony case had been scheduled to begin Monday in Oklahoma County District Court.

District Judge Kathryn Savage signed an order last week giving the hospitalization as the reason the trial setting was stricken. The case was reset on the Feb. 21 pretrial conference docket "for further negotiation."

Ratray was hospitalized for heart issues, his defense attorney, Scott Adams, told The Oklahoman. His family on Friday reported he was in an intensive care unit, the attorney said.

TMZ reported Monday a family member said he has been released and is resting at home.

Ratray was charged in 2021 with a felony count of domestic assault and battery by strangulation and a misdemeanor count of domestic assault and battery.

More: 'Home Alone' actor Devin Ratray involved in domestic incident at Bricktown hotel, TMZ reports

He is accused in the first count of strangling his then-girlfriend on the bed in their hotel room in Bricktown in Oklahoma City early Dec. 9, 2021. He is accused in the second count of punching her in the face when she bit his hand.

"While strangling the victim, defendant stated the following: 'This is how you die,'" an Oklahoma City police detective reported in a court affidavit.

Ratray was in Oklahoma City for the "Oklahoma Pop Christmas Con," according to the affidavit. He became angry with his girlfriend after she gave away "autograph cards" to two women at a bar for free.

Ratray had consumed a bottle of wine and several shots of alcohol at Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse, according to the affidavit. He then had 10 shots of alcohol at the Coyote Ugly Saloon.

He denies strangling or striking the woman, his defense attorney said Monday.

At a preliminary hearing in 2022, the former girlfriend testified she thought she was going to die in the hotel room.

She said Ratray had agreed to do the event in Oklahoma City because he was being evicted from his apartment in New York and needed money.

"Devin ... doesn't want to be known for something he did 30 years ago," she testified, according to a transcript. "It was (a) point of contention for him his whole life.

"And it's something that I dealt with a lot when we were dating and that's why he'd never done these cons before because he didn't want to promote that he was in 'Home Alone.'

"He was annoyed to be there and be seen as 'Buzz' anyway," she said.

During the 2022 hearing, the defense attorney contended that she was the one who had been mad because Ratray was flirting with the two fans at the Coyote Ugly Saloon.

The attorney also said she didn't tell the first police officer there was any strangulation.

In a strange coincidence, Macaulay Culkin, the star of the "Home Alone" movies, also has faced a criminal case in Oklahoma County District Court.

More: Actor pleads guilty to charges

Culkin was charged with misdemeanor drug offenses in 2004 after Oklahoma City police found marijuana and Xanax during a traffic stop. He pleaded guilty in 2005 and was put on probation for a year.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: 'Home Alone' actor Devin Ratray hospitalized, Oklahoma trial called off
The family home of detained Ukrainian investment banker Ihor Mazepa burned down overnight, Anna Diakonova, head of public relations at Mazepa's company Concorde Capital, told the Kyiv Independent on Jan. 22.

Mazepa, who was a vocal critic of state pressure on business, was detained on Jan. 18 under suspicion of illegally seizing land in Kyiv Oblast. Mazepa and his press service called his detention an unfounded attack against his business.

Ukrainian media outlet LB reported earlier on Jan. 22 that the house in Chernihiv Oblast had burned down, citing anonymous sources. Sources told LB that the house was equipped with surveillance systems, so the cause of the fire is being investigated.

The house burned down at "around half past four in the morning," according to Diakonova. "We are currently investigating the situation."

In response to a question about whether Mazepa's home had been targeted, Diakonova said that the house had been there "for 10 years and everything was fine with all systems."

Mazepa was detained as he tried to cross the border into Poland. According to Concorde Capital, he was on his way to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, when law enforcement officers detained him and raided the company's office.

On Jan. 19, the State Bureau of Investigation said that the businessman is suspected of illegally seizing land near Kyiv, calling him "the organizer of a criminal scheme."

Mazepa's detention is related to the acquisition of land rights for the construction of the luxurious cottage resort Goodlife Park in the Vyshhorod district, Kyiv Oblast. The resort is located on the shore of the Kyiv reservoir.

According to law enforcement officers, Mazepa allegedly organized a scheme to illegally seize the land on which the state-owned Kyiv Hydroelectric Power Plant facilities are located.

Mazepa denied the accusations. He said that the case "concerns the events of ten years ago," and connected his detention with his involvement in forming the"Manifesto 42" group, which emphasized the need to defend Article 42 of Ukraine's Constitution.

The article stipulates that "everyone has the right to engage in legal entrepreneurial activity" and that the state "shall ensure the protection of competition and entrepreneurial activity."

In November, the "Manifesto 42" group said that in the five months since President Volodymyr Zelensky ordered to address pressure on business by creating a single body for inspections, things have only worsened.

Mazepa founded Concorde Capital in 2004 and is now considered one of Ukraine's leading investment banks.

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.
A recently demolished building on the banks of the Tuscarawas River in Dover was once the home of the ill-fated Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co.

The brewery was a victim of poor timing.

A group of local businessmen organized the company in 1903 with capital stock of $200,000 ($7 million in 2024 dollars) and had a state-of-the-art brewery built at 115 W. Broadway St. on the south side of Dover, according to information provided by the Tuscarawas County Historical Society. William Martin was president, Jacob A. Horn, vice president, and John D. Stahl, treasurer.

Dover residents taste the first beer produced by the Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co. in October 1906.

The brewery cost $135,000 to build. It consisted of a six-story brewhouse, bottling house and a modern ice plant. The ice plant had a capacity of 50 tons of ice per day. The employees were selected from men who learned the business in Munich, Germany.

The first brew was made on Oct. 14, 1906, and the first product was sold on Feb. 7, 1907.

Business encountered legal difficulties

Unfortunately for the Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co., the residents of Tuscarawas County voted the county dry in 1908 under the Rose local option law. The brewery quickly ran afoul of that law.

On Dec. 24, 1908, a company employee sold George Kuemerly a case of beer, consisting of two dozen pint bottles. Kuemerly took the beer home and drank it. Soon after, Walter H. Scheu, the plant manager, was indicted for unlawfully furnishing and giving away intoxicants. Though Scheu didn't personally sell the beer, he was held responsible since he was manager.

This undated photo shows the old Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co. plant in Dover.

He was found guilty by a Tuscarawas County jury and fined $200. He and company officials decided to appeal the case, arguing the Rose law ban only applied to saloons and sales of quantities of less than one gallon of alcohol.

Crews work to clear rubble from the former Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Company once located at the corner of South Wooster Avenue and West Broadway Street in Dover, Thursday, Jan. 4.

While the case was on appeal, the company continued to sell beer. In May 1909, R.J. Collier of Dover, a member of the Law and Order League, filed affidavits accusing five brewery employees of selling beer on several different occasions in April and May of that year, according to the New Philadelphia Ohio Democrat & Times. Those cases dragged on for years in the local court system.

Supreme Court issued opinion

Meanwhile, the circuit court affirmed the decision of the jury in the original case, so Scheu appealed again to the Ohio Supreme Court.

The high court, ruling in 1910, did not buy Scheu's argument that the law only prohibited the sale of less than a gallon of alcohol.

"The manufacturer may, like the brook 'go on forever,' if he does not condescend to sell in quantities less than one gallon," Justice James Latimer Price, a native of New Hagerstown in Carroll County, wrote in the court's decision.

"The fountainhead may flow in gallon or larger measures, and the thirsty may flock thither and buy, drink and take away for beverage purposes, so they buy in gallon or larger quantities, thus giving the manufacturer a monopoly of the business, and that, too, free of the tax which the state imposes on the saloon or other retailer. The manufacturer  the brewer in this case  becomes a person of most exalted privilege."

The Supreme Court upheld the decisions of the lower courts.

Changes of ownership

Only able to sell beer outside of the county, the Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co. soon went bankrupt. The Colonial Trust Co. of Pittsburgh foreclosed, and the plant was sold at a sheriff's auction for $35,000. It had been valued at $98,000.

By this time, local residents had voted Tuscarawas County "wet" again, so William Martin and his wife, Nina, purchased the plant for $75,000. He organized a new company and reopened the plant in early 1912 as the Martin Brewery and later as the Consumer Brewing & Ice Co. The brewery proved to be unprofitable and closed again in 1914.

The brewery building on Broadway Street in Dover was later the home of the Dover Ice & Coal Co.

The plant took on new life as the Dover Ice & Coal Co., owned by Edward Horn, Jacob's son. However, ice production ended when the plant's smokestack was knocked down during a storm shortly after World War II. The smokestack crashed into the factory's ammonia tanks.

Different eras of brick-work can be seen among rubble being cleared from the demolition of the former Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Company, Thursday, Jan. 4 in Dover.

According to information from the historical society, the top four floors of the plant were removed soon after. They were in a bad state of repair. They had been largely unusable for some time, because when the large brew kettles had been removed, large holes had been cut in most of the building's floors. Dynamite was used to remove some of the upper walls.

Crews work to clear rubble from the demolition of the former Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Company, Thursday, Jan. 4 in Dover.

The remainder of the building then housed the Wills Machine Shop for many years after that.

Jon Baker is a reporter for The Times-Reporter and can be reached at jon.baker@timesreporter.com.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Ban on alcohol sales brought down Tuscarawas Valley Brewing Co.
A hospital nurse illegally dispensed morphine to a person who died from the dose in Utah, federal prosecutors said.

Now the woman, 33, of Sandy, is charged with their death, which happened June 5, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Utah announced in a Jan. 19 news release.

The nurse worked at a local hospital when she gave the fatal dose of morphine, according to prosecutors. They said she also sickened another person with the narcotic.

As police officers in Draper investigated the persons death, a second victim told officers the nurse intravenously gave him morphine without a prescription, prosecutors said.

This made him extremely ill and he feared for his life, according to the attorneys office.

The woman has been indicted on one count of distribution of morphine resulting in death, prosecutors said. She was arrested last week.

Information regarding her legal representation wasnt listed in court records Jan. 22.

Its unclear where the woman worked as a nurse, as the name of the hospital wasnt specified by prosecutors.

Based on data extracted from her cellphone, the woman is also accused of illegally obtaining Adderall and trading the prescription drugs, the attorneys office said.

She also obtained prescription medications from a health care employee with whom she had a romantic relationship, according to prosecutors.

The Draper Police Department continues to investigate the nurse, prosecutors said.

Sandy is about 15 miles southeast of Salt Lake City.

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A Missouri woman has been indicted after officials say she used her position as a hotel manager to steal $150,000 in fake refunds.

The 39-year-old woman was indicted in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Jan. 17, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri.

An attorney for the woman was not listed in court records.

Between March and October, the woman was working as an assistant manager at a hotel in Richmond Heights, a St. Louis suburb, prosecutors said.

While working, the woman went into the hotels computer system and altered customers reservations, officials said.

(She) changed those reservations to falsely show that the customers had used the hotels loyalty rewards system points to pay for their stay, officials said.

By doing so, officials say the woman refunded the customers payments to her own credit and debit cards.

She collected about $153,518 in refunds, prosecutors said. On one occasion, on Oct. 4, she tried to refund herself an additional $62,000 while she was off-duty, according to court records.

She is charged with five counts of wire fraud and faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count if convicted.

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SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Illinois labor officials are issuing a series of statewide recommendations to improve firefighter safety following a two-year investigation into the death of a Chicago firefighter.

Mashawn Plummer, 30, was critically injured the morning of Dec. 16, 2021, while battling an apartment building fire. Just six months after graduating from the Chicago Fire Academy, Plummer died five days after the fire. A civilian woman who was pulled out of the fire also died.

Investigators with the Illinois Department of Labors Division of Occupational Safety and Health (IL OSHA) found the primary cause of Plummers death was a catastrophic malfunction of his self-contained breathing apparatus. The hose connecting Plummers mask to his air tank tore in two places, rapidly depleting his only source of breathable air in heavy smoke conditions. It remains unknown why the air hose tore during the fire; the SCBA passed an inspection the day before.

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However, IL OSHA identified several factors that contributed to Plummers death, which influenced their recommendations. They found that when Plummers SCBA malfunctioned, he was alone and most of the firefighters at the scene didnt hear the mayday call Plummer made due to several radio channels being used.

Both of these factors were in violation of the Chicago Fire Departments written policy and standard operating procedure, which states:

Firefighters must enter a structure together, stay together and exit together.

Company officers must ensure that all firefighters under their command are on appropriate tactical radio channels.

Personnel on scene, including battalion chiefs, company officers and firefighters, must monitor tactical radio channels for critical reports.

Plummers company and the battalion chief that took over incident command did not follow these procedures, IL OSHA said. Not only was Plummer alone for 10 minutes, but the CFDs main dispatch center was aware of his mayday call before the chief was, due to a radio call on the wrong channel.

It took five minutes for the chief, who at one point told dispatch a mayday emergency was not happening, to realize that Plummer was missing and a mayday emergency was in fact happening.

Decatur Fire Dept. responds to most alarms ever in 2023

Other contributing factors in Plummers death, IL OSHA found, include:

Plummer was not closely supervised as a rookie firefighter should be.

The SCBAs malfunction was so serious that it was unlikely to be corrected inside the burning building. It also left Plummer with only minutes to find another source of air or leave the building

Plummers mayday call did not include a unique identifier, such as his name.

At least one firefighter heard Plummers personal alert safety system (PASS) going off, but dismissed it as a false alarm.

Once located, Plummer did not receive emergency breathing air.

Following their investigation, IL OSHA cited the Chicago Fire Department for four offenses and recommended the following procedures during fires and during mayday emergencies. The recommendations are for not just the CFD, but all fire departments in the State of Illinois:

Firefighters entering burning buildings should: Perform a radio check before going inside. Enter with their team, stay together and exit together.

Firefighters in distress should say their name during a mayday call and repeat their call until the incident commander acknowledges them.

Firefighters searching for downed firefighters should immediately provide said firefighter with emergency air, with one firefighter assigned as the air firefighter.

Company officers should ensure Close supervision of inexperienced firefighters. That firefighters going into a burning building are on the appropriate radio channel.

Incident commanders should Establish radio contact with firefighters going into burning buildings. Have zero tolerance for firefighters operating inside buildings alone. Ensure all personnel receive emergency or mayday calls immediately. Treat any potential mayday call as an actual mayday call until proven otherwise. Ensure that PASS alarms are treated as firefighter distress alarms and combat the prevalence of false alarms at fire scenes.

Fire department leaders should Program portable radios with an emergency button that alerts firefighters to a firefighter in distress. Ensure company and command officers serving in acting roles are trained at the levels they are temporarily operating at.



IL OSHA said they hope their incident report on Plummers death serves as an educational resource for Illinois fire departments to follow to ensure other firefighters remain safe on the job. It can be viewed in full by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
The results from an independent test of the soil stockpile at Rogers High School the Newport City Council ordered show similar results to those found by the schools environmental contractor, Pare Corporation, according to the recently released report.

As the construction team building the new Rogers High School began excavating the soil on site and stockpiling it nearby, residents and city officials began raising concerns over the potential contamination in the stockpiled soil and its possible impacts on the health of the students at the old school, as well as the neighbors of the school. The site, which is on the same land as the current high school, was a World War II-era naval battery factory, a quarry and a municipal dump before the current high schools construction.

Although the site did undergo three rounds of soil testing through the projects environmental consultants, Pare Corporation, the City Council ordered an additional, independent test be conducted on the soil stockpile in August 2023 to better address the anxieties of residents in the neighborhood. The city contracted Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB) for $39,350 to test the soil plus an additional $15,000 to uncover and recover the pile with coconut matting that covered the pile.

A large dirt pile has formed as people are warned to stay off the old track and field area at Rogers High School.

The initial results

The first test by Pare Corporation was conducted in early 2022 as a part of the second phase of the Rhode Island Department of Educations Necessity of School Construction program. The report revealed most of the sampled soil had levels of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH), lead, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and arsenic above the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Managements recommended levels for residential areas, specifically called the Method 1 Residential Direct Exposure Criteria.

Pare sampled the site two more times, once in March 2023 where 18 samples of the stockpile were tested and another time in July 2023, where 20 to 25 samples were taken from the stockpile. Both of these tests revealed similar results to the initial one taken in 2022. Much of the information on this process has been documented and made available on RIDEMs website.

Despite this, RIDEM permitted the construction team to temporarily stockpile excavated soil on the current track and field and soil that could be demonstrated as being below the RDEC would be reused as fill for the construction project.

The independent results: how do they differ?

VHB took 24 soil samples from between seven feet to as deep as 18 feet within the pile, much deeper than the most tests Pare underwent in March 2023. For the most part, the report states that the results of the tests are relatively similar and the stockpile had been adequately sampled, by Pare. The report does note that the levels of certain contaminants were higher on average in VHBs data, such as the PAH concentrations. Unlike Pares analysis, which indicated that none of the average PAH concentrations exceeded an applicable RIDEM criteria and only seven of the maximum PAH concentrations were higher than RIDEMs residential standard, VHB reported three average PAH concentrations and 12 maximum PAH concentrations were higher than their respective criteria.

Additionally, VHB identified two compounds, Naphthalene, a PAH, and 1,1-Biphenyl, a semi-volatile organic compound, as having a maximum concentration exceeding RIDEM criteria, neither of which were reported in the Pare data.

What's next?

VHBs report stated that both its data and Pares data reflected lead, arsenic and various PAH compounds at concentrations requiring remedial action, and suggested typical remedial actions such as off-site disposal and/or capping and regrading the soil with a RIDEM-approved barrier, such as pavement, geotextile fabric or clean imported soil. It also recommended implementing an Environmental Land Usage Restriction to eliminate exposure and potential adverse impacts to human health and the environment, as well as implementing periodic inspections and erosion controls for the stockpile in the meantime.

School building projects: Opening of new Rogers High School pushed back to 2025. An in-depth look at how we got here

In addition to the new test results, a new memorandum from interim City Manager Laura Sitrin suggests the school buildings consultants have recently determined the soil in the stockpile is too silty to be used to backfill the project. Sitrins memo recommends informing the School Department they cannot add any more excavated soil to the pile or anywhere on site and that the city hire legal and environmental consultants to get a further understanding of what can be done about the capped landfill underneath the track and field as well as what can be done about the current soil stockpile.

The memo and report will be considered by the Newport City Council at its regular meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 24.

This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: Rogers High School dirt pile independent test completed
By Saurabh Sharma and YP Rajesh

AYODHYA, India (Reuters) -Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the consecration on Monday of a grand temple to the Hindu god Lord Ram on a site believed to be his birthplace, in a celebratory event for the Hindu majority of the world's most populous nation.

Hindu groups, Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its affiliates have portrayed the temple opening as part of a Hindu renaissance after past centuries of subjugation by Muslim invaders and colonial powers.

The temple in the city of Ayodhya has been a contentious issue that helped catapult the BJP to prominence and power, and delivers on its 35-year-old promise, which analysts say should help Modi as he seeks a rare third term in an election due by May.

For decades, the temple site was bitterly contested by Hindus and minority Muslims, leading to nationwide riots in 1992 that killed 2,000 people, mainly Muslims, police say, after a Hindu mob destroyed a 16th-century mosque that had stood there.

India's 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 to build the Babri Masjid, or mosque, in 1528.

In 2019, the Supreme Court handed over the land to Hindus and ordered allotment of a separate plot to Muslims where construction of a new mosque is yet to begin.

"Lord Ram has arrived. Our Ram lalla (child) will no longer live in a tent, our Ram lalla will reside in this divine temple," Modi said, referring to earlier temporary structures which housed an old Ram idol.

"It marks the beginning of a new era," he told an invitation-only gathering. "A nation rising by breaking the mentality of slavery ... creates new history in this manner."

Most opposition parties, including the main opposition Congress, skipped the inauguration saying it had been converted into a political event.

Rival Pakistan condemned the consecration, saying it indicated growing majoritarianism in India and urging New Delhi to ensure the safety of minorities including Muslims.

'HAIL LORD RAM'

At the event, Modi chanted Hindu religious verses before placing flower petals at the feet of the deity and joined his palms in prayer, then bowed before it and circled a sacred flame, while outside, a military helicopter showered petals on the temple.

Traditional clarinets played devotional music during the rituals for the 51-inch (130-cm) tall, black stone deity that represents the god-king while monks, businessmen, sports and movie stars watched along with millions nationwide.

Thousands clad in saffron danced in the streets outside, waving saffron flags as they chanted religious slogans. Cries of "Jai Shri Ram", or "Hail Lord Ram", echoed across the city of 3 million and firecrackers were burst in celebration.

"This is a very proud moment for all Hindus," said Mewaram Prajapati, who came from Modi's western home state of Gujarat.

"Our lord suffered a lot. He stayed in tents, braved heat, cold and rains ... Now our god will finally settle in his palace."

Nearly 8,000 people were invited to Monday's ceremony, while more than 10,000 police personnel guarded the city.

Security was also stepped up nationwide, especially in cities and towns that have suffered past Hindu-Muslim tension and strife.

The temple opens to the public on Tuesday and its management expects 100,000 visitors each day for the next few months.

The event has ignited religious fervour across India, with many states declaring a holiday on Monday, stock markets shut and homes and businesses illuminated after Modi called for it to be marked as another Diwali, the Hindu festival of light.

"Just in sheer magnitude ... this event has almost no precedent in history. It is a watershed moment," commentator Pratap Bhanu Mehta wrote in the Indian Express newspaper.

"It is not just a moment where the state, which has pulled all its mighty power behind this event, ceases to be secular. It is also the moment where Hinduism ceases to be religious."

(Writing by YP Rajesh; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Andrew Cawthorne)
Indian Land residents who havent been here long want their community to slow down the growth. But would they want to create their own city?

Tucked into a new Lancaster County long-term plan is a goal to consider a measured and intentional plan to transition the county panhandle to a municipality.

Work on the plan began in 2021. Once approved by Lancaster County Council  which could be as soon as next month  it will guide land use decisions for more than a decade.

The plan doesnt list details for when and how a push might form to incorporate Indian Land. But if it happens, it wont be the first time Indian Land faced the townhood question.

U.S. 521 in Indian Land is a major growth corridor in Lancaster County. A new long-range plan for the county mentions possible incorporation for Indian Land.

Indian Lands prior vote on incorporating

A small but connected group of residents pushed for an incorporation vote in early 2018.

The issue became contentious between residents concerned about tax increases and organizers who wanted to keep tax revenue, franchise fees and more from the high-growth Indian Land there.

Organizers cleared several state hurdles to get the decision to a ballot. That push in Indian Land caused the smaller Van Wyck community to hurriedly petition for their own incorporation so they wouldnt be sucked into Indian Land. Van Wyck became a town by public vote in 2017.

The Indian Land campaign, scrambled somewhat by the loss of Van Wyck, sputtered.

About 83% of voters opted not to make Indian Land a town. The only intrigue in the election came from a question of what the potential town should be named. Voters got creative, with options from Fancy Town to Overtaxville to Towny McTownface.

Who wouldnt want to live in Tebowville? Hillary Clintonville? Maybe Deez Nutsville?

If a new move toward incorporation develops, it will have to focus north of Van Wyck. That area still includes most of the county panhandle, north of Highway 75.

Indian Land growth by the numbers

The Lancaster 2040 plan includes a lot of numbers that highlight what the panhandle has become in recent years:

 40,680

The panhandle resident count in the 2020 Census is roughly the same as the populations of Fort Mill, York and Lancaster combined. If the panhandle were a city or town, it would rank No. 10 in South Carolina ahead of Spartanburg, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach and others.

 476%

Panhandle growth from 2000 to 2020 transitioned a mostly rural area into an urbanized one. The county grew 179% from 2000 to 2010 and 106% from 2010 to 2020.

 14,400

New homes built in the panhandle from 2000 to 2022, which provided space for about 30,000 residents.

 12%

Developed land in the panhandle increased from 2010 to 2020.

 5,360

New homes (3,200) and apartments (2,160) were approved but not yet built, as of last fall. Those residences are expected to add 13,000 people.

 32,000

The average number of daily traffic trips along U.S. 521, or Charlotte Highway, is the most in the county. S.C. 160 and S.C. 5 in the panhandle see more than 10,000 trips a day.

A new Target will be built across from the YMCA in Indian Land, part of the ongoing growth there. The store will be located on the property on the right.

 2030

The year almost all Lancaster County schools are projected to be over capacity, though planning is ongoing for a bond referendum.

 83.2%

The share of panhandle homes built since 2000 shows dwarfs any prior period. The 2000 to 2009 decade accounts for 42.8% of homes, followed by 40.4% since then.

 70%

Panhandle residents who moved to their current address since 2010 are in the majority.

 $113,000

The panhandle median household income is well above Lancaster County ($72,186) and state ($63,623) averages.

 46.9

The median age of panhandle residents is almost seven years older than Lancaster County as a whole. A major driver of that difference is the Sun City retirement community.

What else is in the 2040 plan?

Indian Lands potential to become a municipality is one of almost 20 panhandle priorities.

Others include possible Charlotte Area Transit System bus connection to Ballantyne and light rail at the Interstate 485 station in Pineville, North Carolina; a central civic gathering space in Indian Land, a funding stream for road improvements and more access to the Catawba River.

Traffic, growth, schools impact Indian Land

Of almost 2,000 survey responses to Lancaster 2040, some 62% came from panhandle residents. About 79% came from some unincorporated part of the county.

About 59% of responses consider quality of life in the county as average. Just 30% marked high, and 11% went low. Among concerns, growth and development was the top first- and second-place answer given by the most participants. Traffic was second, for both. Schools were the third-greatest concern.

Most responses, 63%, said growth is happening too fast. In the panhandle, 82% said its too fast.

Countywide, 74% of responses listed traffic congestion as the top transportation issue. In the panhandle, congestion was the top issue for 95% of people. In southern Lancaster, by contrast, the top response was no concerns at 41%.

Among all responses, 26% of residents have lived in Lancaster County less than five years. More than half, 52%, moved here in the past 10 years.

How to comment on the plan

The Lancaster 2040 plan has public meetings upcoming Tuesday at the Kershaw library, Jan. 29 at the Lancaster County Historic Courthouse and Jan. 30 at the Del Webb library in Indian Land.

All meetings begin at 6 p.m.
This article was originally published in Indiana Capital Chronicle.

A top GOP state senator wants to completely overhaul Indianas private school vouchers with a grant program that would allow all Hoosier families  regardless of income  to choose where their students get educated.

The proposal will not advance in the current legislative session, but discussion at the Statehouse on Thursday previewed likely legislative momentum in 2025.

Senate Bill 255, authored by Sen. Ryan Mishler, R-Mishawaka, would bring an end to Choice Scholarships, which allows most Hoosier families to receive vouchers to attend private schools.

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The special education-only Education Scholarship Accounts (ESAs), as well as the newly-established Career Scholarship Account (CSA) Program, would also come to an end.

Instead, Mishler is seeking to merge those programs into a new Indiana Funding Students First Grant Program for students ages five to 21.

The bill removes all income caps on current school choice grants and allows any Hoosier parent to apply for an annual grant that can be used for qualified education expenses. That includes tuition and fees, exam fees, services for students with a disability, transportation, payments for tutoring, and costs associated with extracurricular activities, apprenticeships or other programs.

Students already participating in the states choice programs would be unaffected and continue to receive funding to attend their desired schools.

Its a work in progress. Were going to start the discussion on the issues within the bill  we have a year to try to decide what we want to do, said Mishler, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Mishler said the legislation mixes various school choice concepts. The intent of hearing the bill now, he added, is to gather information. Even so, testimony on the bill lasted less than an hour on Thursday due to scheduling restraints.

The goal here was to give parents more flexibility, said Mishler, who noted that many Hoosier students continue to struggle with foundational curricula in schools, even though the state keeps putting more money into K-12 education.

When we drafted the bill, we felt like every type of student would benefit in some way, he continued. But well be working on this over the summer to try to perfect things, so we have plenty of time for discussion.

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A universal school choice landscape

As currently drafted, the bill sets up a two-year pilot program. Mishler said that wont be the case when its refiled next year, though.

Rather, Indianas treasurer would be tasked with running the Funding Students First program.

This bill is not a silver bullet that will fix all the problems with our education system. This bill is not a program that will take away from our existing public or private school systems. This bill is not an attempt to restrict, harm or limit homeschool families or how they choose to educate their children, said Treasurer Daniel Elliott, who emphasized, too, that he and his wife homeschool their own children.

This bill is an option that lets parents control education dollars. This bill is a tool that gives parents more than two choices. This bill is an opportunity to allow parents the freedom to customize their childs education, Elliott continued. We have found that when parents control the flow of dollars to their childrens education, theyre more engaged, more focused on their childs needs, and in the best position to make sound educational choices.

In 2022, state lawmakers expanded the Choice Scholarship program to be nearly universal and open to almost all Hoosier families. Private school voucher program grew by 30% in the current school year  the largest increase in the number of students in 10 years.

Under the new proposal, participating families with students attending private school would get 90% of the amount of money per child that their neighborhood public school gets from the state, identical to the existing Choice Scholarships available now.

Families would get 50% of the states base funding for students who are enrolled in a public school. In those instances, grants could be used for services outside of the public schools jurisdiction, such as tutors, disability service providers and occupational therapists, among other education-related costs.

Rolling out Mishlers new plan is expected to increase state spending by upwards of $46.5 million, according to a legislative fiscal analysis. But that estimate is based only on a pilot program.

Exact projections are dependent on changes to the state tuition support funding formula in the next biennium and changes to the number of students who participate in the school choice programs.

Given the significant financial impacts  and the Republican majoritys refusal to open the budget during the 2024 short session  Mishlers proposal will remain on hold. In 2025, the measure must get approval from both the Senate education and appropriations committees before it can be passed to the House for additional consideration.

Its not clear where the opposite chamber stands on the proposal.

Many questions still to be answered

Denny Costerison  representing the Indiana Association of School Business Officials, the Coalition for Indiana Growing and Suburban School Districts, and both the state superintendent and school boards associations  said the groups are so far neutral on the bill, pending interim discussions about the new programs funding mechanisms and likely impacts on local school districts.

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We look forward to a continuing discussion on this concept as you move forward with it, and getting ready for next year, because this will be an extremely important bill, Costerison said.

Searching for some answers now, Sen. Shelli Yoder, D-Bloomington, questioned how students would juggle multiple learning opportunities provided by the grants, both logistically and academically.

For example, one student could use a grant to attend both public school classes and receive lessons from an outside, private music teacher during the school day. Another student might apply the state dollars to online schooling and an apprenticeship.

How is that all going to happen? Yoder asked.

Homeschool parents also spoke before the Senate committee, asking lawmakers to ensure the new grant program wont infringe on their autonomy to educate their children as they wish. Mishler promised to honor that request.

But Donnie Bowsman, superintendent at the Randolph Southern School Corporation, cautioned that the grant program would cause more students to leave public schools  in some cases, because parents want to avoid the hassle of dealing with school officials or being responsible or accountable to their childs education.

Were going to talk about paying people to take their child out of my school, Bowsman said. There needs to be parameters on this, and guide rails, especially if were talking about state funding and appropriations.

Indiana Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Indiana Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Niki Kelly for questions: info@indianacapitalchronicle.com. Follow Indiana Capital Chronicle on Facebook and Twitter.
IndyStar recently covered a warehouse development that would destroy wetlands in Marion County and wetlands across the state have been a topic of conversation during this  and many past legislative sessions. So what is the big deal with the wetlands?

What are wetlands?

Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year, including during the growing season, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rain forests and coral reefs and they can be home to a variety of species of microbes, plants, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish and mammals.

Frozen-over wetlands on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2023, on the far south side of Indianapolis. An adjacent plot of land, which hosts a variety of wildlife, is the spot where a proposed warehouse will be erected.

According to Indiana's Department of Natural Resources, wetland communities include bogs, dune and swale, fens, flatwoods, floodplain forests, marshes, ponds, lakes, sedge meadows, seeps, streams, creeks, major rivers and swamps.

EPA says you can think of a wetland as a "biological supermarket" in the sense that provide great volumes of food that attract many animal species, which can be vital to their life cycle.

Why are wetlands important?

According to EPA, wetlands play an integral role in the ecology of the watershed, which is a geographic area in which water, sediments and dissolved materials drain from higher elevations to a common low-lying outlet or basin or a point on a larger stream, lake, underlying aquifer or estuary.

As mentioned above, wetlands provide critical habitat for a variety of species. They also act as sponges, which makes them crucial to soaking up water to help prevent against flooding. That is important as Indiana continues to see more extreme rain events, according to research from Purdue University.

As that water soaks into the ground, wetlands help to filter and clean the water. It also recharges the state's groundwater resources, which is essential for Indiana's water supplies.

Wetlands store carbon within their plant communities and soil instead of releasing it to the atmosphere as carbon dioxide, meaning wetlands help to moderate global climate conditions.

Indiana wetlands are no longer protected.

Indiana used to have one of the more protective wetlands laws in the country. That law had been in place for almost 20 years, but that changed in 2021.

Even though it received strong opposition from the state's own environmental and natural resource experts  and concerns were even raised by the Governor's Office  lawmakers pushed through a bill in 2021 that gutted protections for Indiana's dwindling wetlands.

Why? The bill also removed costly mitigation for developers. IndyStar reporting was able to uncover that several of the lawmakers who penned the bill had close ties to the building industry.

The unfortunate thing is that we really should have had a careful and deliberative task force process before changing the wetlands law," Indra Frank with the Hoosier Environmental Council told IndyStar in 2022. "That would have been a good time to sit down and take a look at how its functioning and what we could potentially do better.

Still, some of Indiana's wetlands had federal protections. But a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year  called the Sackett decision  removed much of those safeguards. Rather, the federal court said it was leaving it up to the states to regulate wetlands.

Indiana will continue losing its wetlands to development unless a new bill is passed.

Before the 2021 bill was passed, Indiana already had lost 85% of the wetlands it had a century ago, with many being drained for farming and development. Since then, Indiana has lost close to 350 acres of wetlands, according to a report from Hoosier Environmental Council. More than 75% were not mitigated in any way, meaning they did not have to be recreated elsewhere.

That may not seem like a lot, but think about it in a different way: Indiana has lost the ability to store as much as 400 million gallons of water in just two years.

The Indiana Wetlands Task Force released its final report in 2022, which advocates, experts and industry say include some pretty powerful findings and recommendations. That task force was created as part of the law that stripped wetlands protections.

In Indiana, a lot of places are getting more rainfall and we have a lot of places with flooding," Will Ditzler of the Indiana Wetlands Task Force told IndyStar in 2022. "It impacts builders, farmers, homeowners, municipalities, everyone."

Key points in the report include:

Flooding, and its expensive consequences, are drastically increasing across Indiana due to the overall loss of its wetlands.

Indiana is at a point where the cumulative loss of wetlands is having a measurable negative impact on residents, including from a water quality standpoint.

The state also needs incentives and voluntary programs to encourage not only preserving existing wetlands, but also restoring ones that have been lost.

Their top recommendation? Indiana needs state-level regulations for preserving wetlands  like the ones that were removed in 2021.

Some bills have been proposed since 2021 that would re-establish some of the lost protections, but they have failed to be passed by the super-majority Republican legislature.

Another such bill has been proposed this year as the 2024 session gets under way. That bill has been assigned to the House Environmental Affairs Committee, but has yet to be scheduled for a hearing.

"Wetlands have functions and values and therefore the state of Indiana should regulate and be concerned about wetlands," Ditzler said.

Katie Wiseman is a trending and breaking news intern at IndyStar. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @itskatiewiseman.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana wetlands are making headlines again. Why are they important?
PROVIDENCE  With a vote by the state Ethics Commission imminent, Gov. Dan McKee's former Director of Administration James Thorsen has denied any unethical behavior on the now infamous day-trip that he and a freebie-collecting colleague took to Philadelphia last March.

"At no time did Thorsen solicit or accept any gift or reward based on any understanding that a vote or official action or judgment would be influenced thereby," Thorsen's lawyer Kevin Bristow told the Ethics Commission in response to a complaint lodged by the commission's deputy chief investigator.

Infamous Philly trip back in the spotlight

The Ethics Commission's anticipated vote Tuesday has put the spotlight back on the trip that Thorsen and David Patten, then-director of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, took to Philly to check out an award-winning project by Scout Ltd., the firm the state hired to put the fortress-like Cranston Street Armory to new use.

What happened on that trip  at a time when the fate and funding of the proposed $56-million Cranston Street Armory revival hung in the balance  led the top executives at Scout to send the governor a blistering email.

A screenshot from a stream of a Rhode Island House Finance Committee meeting on March 9, 2023, shows then-Department of Administration Director James Thorsen, left, and David Patten, director of the state's property management division.

More: RI governor's office fought to keep this email secret. Why the Journal fought back, and what it says

Among the allegations in that email: that Patten left a trail of racist and sexist remarks, demanded freebies at multiple stops along the site tour, including a pair of sneakers he said he hoped weren't from China because he hates China. According to the email, upon spotting an Asian-American woman nearby, Patten said, "No offense, hon."

When told that the high-end restaurant where he wanted to eat wasn't open for lunch, Patten allegedly told a Scout executive  "Well, you can call in a favor if you want $55M in funding."

While getting coffee with Scout's managing partner, Lindsey Scannapietro, that morning, he alleged said: If I knew your husband wasnt going to be here, I would have come last night.

As for what Thorsen allegedly did  or didn't do  that gave rise to the ethics complaint: neither he nor Patten paid their share of their $525 lunch that day with the two Scout executives until Thorsen asked for an invoice days later.

Patten did not send a response to the multiple violations alleged in the complaint against him.

Thorsen's defense: He did not solicit gifts from Scout

Thorsen's lawyer, Bristow, said simply that Thorsen did not "solicit goods or services, gifts or rewards from the Scout representatives, nor use, in any way, his public office to obtain financial gain," and did not accept any gift, reward, favor, service, gratuity or special discount" valued at more than $25 "from a person or business that has a direct financial interest in a decision that the public official is authorized to make."

"Also, contrary to the averments contained in the complaint, James Thorsen was not a 'key decision-maker' in connection with the prospective redevelopment contract with Scout Ltd," Bristow wrote.

Thorsen left state government in April 2023 for a job at the U.S. Treasury, but his LinkedIn page does not indicate he is still there.

Patten ultimately resigned.

At that point, Patten's lawyer, Michael Lynch, issued a statement that said in part: "While a simple apology is never enough, Mr. Patten is apologetic to the citizens of Rhode Island, who he has had the pleasure of representing as a director in the Department of Administration, that any of these matters occurred."

"He also apologizes to the many individuals in Philadelphia he met with in March and were, unfortunately, recipients of comments that resulted from Mr. Patten suffering" what has been described as an "acute stress event."

What is happening with the armory?

The McKee Administration cancelled Scout's contract. The fate of the largely abandoned armory remains unclear. As recently as August, the City of Providence was laying down terms for a potential takeover of the cavernous building.

The Cranston Street Armory is an historic building in the Broadway-Armory Historic District of Providence.

"Discussions with the City of Providence are ongoing," Department of Administration spokeswoman Laura Hart told The Journal on Monday.

She noted there is a total of $7.4 million earmarked for the "ongoing rehabilitation of the Cranston Street Armory" in the RI Capital Plan budget (FY 2024 through FY 2029).

"These funds will allow for asset-protection work as the state refines plans for the facilitys adaptive reuse," she said.

The commission is also scheduled to vote on a complaint its investigator filed against Patten, as well as on a separate complaint the state GOP filed against McKee in connection with his own interactions with Scout executives at a fundraising lunch paid for by Scout's lobbyist, Jeff Britt.

McKee's defense? He didn't know.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Top-ranked McKee official defends himself from ethics commission
The volunteer intelligence community InformNapalm has released a new study based on correspondence between Russian politicians and their aides that reveals evidence of Russia's influence on various aspects of international politics through economic relations with friendly countries and individuals.

InformNapalm obtained the information from Ukrainian hackers from the CyberResistance group and supplemented it with its own verified findings and video evidence.

The investigation focuses on various aspects of Russia's international influence through corruption, energy leverage, and economic and other projects.

Russia's infiltration into Europe's energy sector

Although Russia's ability to use gas as a weapon is diminishing, the case of Serbia shows how dangerous and comprehensive Russian infiltration into the energy sector can be.

The case in question concerns NIS, Serbia's formerly state-owned oil company. The Serbian government now holds about 30% of its shares.

Russian state-owned energy corporation Gazprom has been the controlling shareholder of NIS since 2012, with a stake of over 50%.

Lately, NIS has been expanding into the markets of neighbouring countries  Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Slovenia.

The company produces crude oil, generates energy, and retails fuel through its own network of petrol stations.

The investigators gained access to correspondence between Serbian government officials and people connected to them, revealing multi-million-dollar corruption within the company and the kind of "muddying of the waters" typical of senior Russian executives.

Serbian officials are aware of instances of national chauvinism and segregation, since the Russians at NIS receive disproportionately higher salaries than the Serbian staff, and there have been mass dismissals of Serbs from the once-Serbian state-owned company.

Mention is also made of "irreparable environmental damage in Vojvodina" caused by the company's business operations, and of other consequences of the "Russian world" that arrived at the formerly state-owned Serbian company along with the Russian executives. [The Russian world is the Russian neo-imperial geopolitical and ideological doctrine of the Putinist era  ed.]

At the same time, the documents revealed details of corruption in Serbia's efforts to achieve lower gas prices.

The documents exposed senior Serbian officials dissatisfaction with the implementation of a high-speed rail project after the Russians took the project on despite lacking the necessary technology.

Media influence campaigns

The investigation revealed new details of Russia's project to influence the global media landscape.

In September 2022, the media worldwide was flooded with reports that since 2014, Russia had spent US$300 million on influencing politicians and government officials in over two dozen countries. A press release from the US Department of State was sent out to the editors of leading media outlets, but details were thin on the ground.

What little information was available revealed that countries in the Balkans, Africa and South America were affected.

In particular, the use of the Institute for International Integration Studies, a non-profit Russian organisation, was noted. This institution was used to cover up a global campaign of external influence to promote Russia's foreign policy goals.

Through these operations, aimed at influencing the course of international affairs, the perpetrators worked to weaken the USs partnership with its European allies, undermine Western sanctions, and facilitate Russia's illegal actions aimed at destroying Ukraine's sovereignty.

The Institute's website openly states that it is engaged in lobbying and helping businesses expand their operations in certain countries.

But the correspondence written by those close to Kremlin officials shows that any such business is driven solely by the Kremlin's interest.

"Lobbying" means bribing experts, journalists and politicians in the target country in order to sway public opinion in favour of Russian interests.

One example presented by the investigators is a document containing a detailed plan for a media campaign in the EU to promote Russian pipeline gas. This document gives an idea of how the US$300 million was spent on Russian soft power abroad.

The plan contains a typical list of the arguments the Kremlin uses in discussions about gas: intimidation, gaslighting with regard to transit through Ukraine, and threats of a shortage.

And these arguments were voiced not by Russian officials, but by Russian agents of influence in the EU. Among them are "a member of the European Parliament, a member of parliament of a European country, a market expert, and a specialised journalist". The participation of "executive branch representatives" at energy minister or deputy energy minister level is expected as well.

The Seagal Support Fund

Another part of the investigation concerns Hollywood has-been Steven Seagal and the Steven Seagal Cinema Support Fund. The Russian origin of a RUB 1 billion (about US$11.37 million) contribution to the fund has already been reported.

Now new details of this cooperation have emerged.

The researchers say Seagal is a frontman for the activities of the sanctioned Russian politician Alexander Babakov  one of the key individuals spreading Russian narratives in Europe.

For example, Seagal owns a 26% shareholding in Gorki Holding Company LLC, which is linked to Babakov.

Money from individuals close to Babakov has passed through Seagals fund, which may indicate the existence of a scheme for withdrawing and laundering Gazprom assets.

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An Ingleside Catholic school will stay open for the next academic year after raising more than enough money to cover a budget deficit from the loss of a state tax credit scholarship program.

The St. Bede School raised more than $425,000 from a student-started fundraiser just 32 days after the Archdiocese of Chicago informed the community the K-8 school  whose current enrollment is 182  would close after this school year unless money to cover the deficit was raised by the end of January. The funds will cover salaries, benefits, utility and curriculum costs.

The Rev. George Koeune of Our Lake of the Lakes Parish told parishioners and school families Friday that the Chicago Archdiocese Cardinal Blase Cupich accepted the recommendation to keep the school open.

We are grateful for the joyous news, a testament to the efforts made by so many, St. Bede Co-Principal Lynne Strutzel said. We received contributions and support from those near and far.

Contributions to save the school came from school families, alumni, businesses, neighboring Catholic schools and even strangers. Strutzel said now the schools biggest concern is a long-term financial sustainability plan.

Our focus is on sustainability, the co-principal said. We feel an obligation to those dollars not to take their money and have it be one and done.

The private school faced a budget cliff after Illinois school choice scholarship program, Invest in Kids, expired in November. The program granted tax credits to people who donated to scholarships that allow low-income students to attend private schools.

Thirty-one St. Bede School students benefited from the public scholarships, amounting to about $145,000 in tuition dollars, according to Strutzel. Tuition is a large source of a Catholic schools budget  the rest is offset by parish dollars, donations and fundraising.

In addition to operating expenses, the struggle we have now will be enrollment because we rely on tuition to maintain the income that we need in order to move forward, Strutzel said.

The school is seeking sponsors to mitigate any future fiscal crises. The school is working on two potential business sponsorships, and several local businesses have also offered to contribute to a scholarship to support low-income students who lost scholarships through Invest in Kids, according to Strutzel.

The Archdiocese of Chicago will also offer scholarships to replace some of the program deficit, according to the Office of Catholic Education. Over 5,000 students across the archdiocese relied on the scholarship.

Over a thousand donations were made to St. Bede School, most through a GoFundMe started by Susan Lutzke, a St. Bede alum and current senior at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein.

I am thankful to all that made it possible to keep the school open, Lutzke said. The lesson I learned over the past few weeks is that it is still possible to make a difference if you just take a chance.

The Office of Catholic Schools congratulated the St. Bede school community on the incredible achievement, and said it hopes it puts the school on a path of continued sustainability.

This effort reflects how much Catholic schools are valued and needed in their communities, said a statement from the office. The support from neighboring Catholic schools, in particular, demonstrates how connected we are in our mission of faith and service.

The office is hoping donors continue to contribute, even with the loss of the tax credit.

Two suburban Chicago Catholic schools will close at the end of the school year because the tax credit scholarship program ended, the Archdiocese of Chicago announced on Thursday.

Between the two schools in Cicero and Berwyn, 164 students attended through the tax credit scholarship program, the archdiocese said.

Theyre the victims, its always the underserved who are the victims, Strutzel said.

chilles@chicagotribune.com
A man demanded his release from federal custody while posing as a Secret Service agent in a handwritten letter to a judge in Georgia, prosecutors said.

However, an Inmate Mail stamp helped indicate he authored the demand  and other letters threatening to kill public officials and their families, according to a Jan. 19 news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Georgia.

The letters written by Travis Leroy Ball, 56, of Barnesville, Georgia, all had Inmate Mail stamps and at least two letters had his DNA on them, prosecutors said.

Balls federal defender Timothy R. Saviello declined a request for comment from McClatchy News on Jan. 22.

In the first letter, Ball pretended to be the Secret Service agent who investigated him in a separate case involving his threats to kill President Joe Biden and blow up the White House, according to his plea agreement filed Jan. 19.

He demanded U.S. District Court Judge Marc T. Treadwell to dismiss that case and to be released from Federal Bureau of Prisons custody in the letter dated Feb. 24,2023, his plea agreement says.

Ball did not only impersonate a Secret Service agent, according to prosecutors. Hes also accused of posing as his former cellmate in subsequent letters sent to the federal courthouse in Valdosta and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

He threatened to kill federal employees and their families, and he warned hed burn down their buildings and homes in the nearly identical letters signed with his former cellmates name, according to his plea agreement.

Take me very serious! If not, then Ill kill all of you, Ball wrote in the letters received in March and May, his plea agreement says.

In a fourth letter sent to the Upson County Sheriffs Office in July, Ball posed as an FBI agent, according to prosecutors.

He wrote he was working on a top-secret case and demanded that the sheriffs office delete photos of Ball and his information from jail records, prosecutors said.

The FBI figured out Ball wrote each of the letters after noticing the Inmate Mail stamps and comparing the handwriting, the verbiage he used, the letterheads and postage stamps, according to prosecutors.

Ball pleaded guilty to one count of mailing threatening communications on Jan. 19, the attorneys office announced.

He wrote the letters while in custody at a county jail, his plea agreement says. When his jail cell was searched, officers found pencils, white envelopes, postage stamps and a legal pad, according to the plea agreement.

In November 2022, Ball was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison in connection with threatening the president and the White House, the attorneys office announced Dec. 1, 2022.

That sentence was to be served consecutively to any state sentences imposed against him, court records show.

The charges in the current case were filed against him in October as he served the two years and nine month federal sentence, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

For mailing threatening communications, Ball faces up to five years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine, prosecutors said.

While Mr. Balls continued criminal conduct clearly illustrates his lack of concern and compassion for others, it also illustrates his unwillingness to be rehabilitated, Robert Gibbs, the supervisory senior resident agent in charge of FBI Atlantas Macon office, said in a statement.

Hopefully, this additional sentence will finally send the message that the FBI will not tolerate his hate fueled hoaxes and will continue to hold him accountable, Gibbs added.

Barnesville is about 60 miles southeast of Atlanta.

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Man convicted of battery leaps over defense table and attacks judge, Nevada video shows
PINE BLUFF, Ark.  The Jefferson County Sheriffs Office is reporting two men have escaped from its detention center, including one being held on a capital murder charge.

Officials said the pair were discovered missing at approximately 10:30 a.m. Monday from the W.C. Dub Brassel Detention Center. Officials said the two men may have escaped within the past 48 hours.

A JCSO official gave descriptions of the pair.

The first man was Jatonia Bryant, who was being held on probable cause for capital murder, officials said. The 23-year-old Bryant is described as standing 5-feet 11-inches tall and weighing approximately 145 pounds.

Image of Jatonia Bryant provided by the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office

The second man is Noah Roush, who was being held on suspicion of residential burglary and theft of property and was a suspect in a homicide, according to officials. Roush is 22 years old and stands 6-feet 2-inches tall, weighs approximately 180 pounds and has a scar on the right side of his head.

Image of Noah Roush provided by the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office

Officials said both men are considered dangerous and should only be approached by law enforcement.

JCSO officials said the department is working with Pine Bluff Police Department Vice and Narcotics unit, the Arkansas State Police and the Arkansas Department of Corrections to find the men.

Investigators asked that anyone with information about Roush or Bryant, or anyone who helped them in the escape, should contact the JCSO at 870-541-5351 or the Metropolitan Emergency Communication Association at 870-541-5300.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Barack Obama is worried about America in 2024.

This is an all hands on deck moment, a source close to former President Obama told TPM, describing his thinking. Hes going to do everything he can to help Democrats win up and down the ballot. And obviously no race is more consequential than President Bidens reelection.

Facing a country flirting with authoritarianism, Obama is particularly focused on Democrats need to maintain the support of young Americans  a key constituency that at this moment seems to be slipping from the partys grasp. A spate of worrying recent polls for Democrats show the young voters that helped deliver Bidens victory in 2020 expressing severe discontent with the president, citing reasons ranging from the war in Gaza, to the cost of living, and climate change. Some even contend that, given the choice between the two 2020 candidates, they will this time vote for Trump.

While he stops short of any express criticism of Biden, who served as his vice president, or other Democrats, Obama is unmistakably of the opinion that theyve got a lot of political work to do.

The truth is we dont just need young people to vote in November, said the source, who requested anonymity to discuss Obamas thinking. We need them to work hard and stand in line and call their friends and throw everything they have at this. And so I think its fair to say that young people will be the ball game, as they were in 2020.

As we report in our new book, The Truce, which will be published on Tuesday, Obama left office stung by Hillary Clintons defeat and obsessed with how Democrats could rebuild the unity her long battle with Bernie Sanders had cost the party. He has been especially focused on youth engagement in the years since. Shortly after Democrats took back the House of Representatives in the 2018 midterms, Obama met with the Democrats incoming House freshmen at a donors mansion in the Kalorama neighborhood of Washington, D.C. to share his thoughts on the partys direction and the ideal strategy for taking on Trump. While the meeting was previously reported, much of what Obama said behind closed doors was not known.

We obtained Obamas remarks, and we learned that the former president offered a diagnosis of young voters role within the Democratic Party, and the partys uneven success at keeping them engaged. When we lose them, its because they dont feel seen and they dont feel heard, Obama said of young voters and activists.

This is not a fifty-fifty country, Obama explained to the young lawmakers in that 2019 speech. This is a sixty-forty country, except older folks vote more. And our folks are distracted, discouraged, disempowered, and so we have to work to make them feel included and empowered. But if we do, theyll respond.

WASHINGTON, USA  JANUARY 20: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) President-elect Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama arrive for Trumps inauguration ceremony at the Capitol in Washington, USA on January 20, 2017. (Photo by J. Scott Applewhite / Pool / AP/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

Obama experienced unprecedented success on this front during his two successful White House bids. Since then, Democrats have struggled to hold together the so-called Obama coalition of youth, people of color, and women, which proved instrumental in winning enough votes to surmount the Republican Partys advantage in the electoral college. In 2016, Clinton turned out fewer young voters than Obama had. Biden improved on that mark in 2020, and, to continue his success, he will need to avoid the kind of second term dip in youth turnout that Obama saw in 2012. Thats particularly important since Republicans have made modest gains with some people of color, chipping away at the Democrats advantage on that front.

During his 2019 speech, Obama alluded to the fact that young people tend to support more ambitious, progressive policies and have a pretty good nose for whos in it for the right reasons and whos sincere. Obama urged the new House Democrats not to be overly cautious and concerned with the vanity of holding office.

Remember why you got here and dont start thinking that the reason you want to stay here is because you got a pin on, and you got an office, youre on TV once in a while, Obama said. First of all, nobody watches cable TV  ordinary people arent reading Politico.

Still, even as he encouraged boldness, Obama also sounded a note of pragmatism.

I want to make sure that I am not having all of you  go in front of the Capitol and set yourself on fire, Obama said. You guys are also politicians and  you are obligated to think through how you can be effective.

In the context of this years looming presidential election, Obamas continued focus on activating young people points to some ominous developments for Bidens reelection campaign. Biden is currently facing widespread and growing protests from progressives horrified by staunch U.S. support for Israels war in the Gaza Strip following the October 7th massacre by Hamas. Opposition to the American-backed Israeli campaign, which has left over 20,000 Palestinians dead, is particularly pronounced among young people. Recent polling shows nearly three quarters of adults under 30 disapprove of how Biden has handled the situation. Many progressives opposed to Bidens foreign policy cite the sort of disempowerment Obama spoke about in his 2019 speech.

Moreover, there are indications in survey data that Bidens advantage among young voters is fading. Polling toward the end of last year suggested that Biden was in a close race with, or even trailing, Donald Trump for the votes of the younger cohort (which different pollsters define variously as 18-29, 18-34,, etc.), a staggering drop in his standing from 2020, when exit polls indicated Biden won voters in that age group against the same opponent by double-digit margins.

If young voters are the key to Bidens reelection and his once-sizeable advantage among them is at risk of slipping away, its a gut check moment for Democrats, who  with good reason  see this election as a last ditch-battle to save American democracy from an authoritarian takeover led by Trump.

With Trump steamrolling to the Republican nomination after his victory in Iowa, Obamas view of the campaign  and his potential role in it  has made headlines. Earlier this month, the Washington Post reported that Obama has had animated discussions with Biden and the current presidents top aides about the coming race. According to the paper, Obama pointed to the structure of his successful 2012 election operation and encouraged Biden to similarly split top advisers between the White House and campaign headquarters. Our source, while acknowledging that Biden and Obama have discussed the campaign, described the initial reporting about that meeting as both too negative and too microscopic.

They can talk about how 2012 was structured and it is not necessarily a reflection of the current reelection, the source said.

BARCELONA CATALONIA, SPAIN  APRIL 28: Former U.S. President Barack Obama (c) walks through the streets of Barcelona, April 28, 2023, in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, landed last night in Barcelona to attend the Bruce Springsteen concert. Obama visits Barcelona, but tomorrow, April 29th, he leaves Barcelona to attend a series of European conferences starting in Zurich (Germany). The former first lady will stay one more day, according to sources familiar with the agenda. (Photo By David Zorrakino/Europa Press via Getty Images)

The source in Obamas circle dismissed speculation that Obama is unhappy with Bidens campaign strategy. They repeatedly said Obama will defer to Biden about where to deploy in the 2024 race and what messages to focus on.

I think President Obama believes firmly that this is President Bidens campaign to run, and were not going to second guess it from the outside, the source said. We want to be as supportive as we can be, but were not in charge of the message and we just defer to their operation and the very smart people they have running it.

David Axelrod, who was one of Obamas top strategists, has added to the impression the former president is concerned about Bidens operation. Axelrod, who is now a senior political commentator on CNN, has made several appearances on the network where he has offered harsh criticism of Biden and his team.

Axelrod, however, is only speaking for himself. Theres hundreds of thousands of alumni and they all have opinions, and those opinions are great, but that is very different than being seen as speaking for President Obama, our source said.

Obamas assessment of the race and his plans for getting involved are particularly notable because, as we report in The Truce, Obama played an essential role in consolidating the Democratic field in the last two presidential races.

Trump launched his first White House bid in 2015, at the end of Obamas own administration. With Clinton lined up to take him on, Obama pressed Biden  who was also considering throwing his hat in the ring  to make a final decision about whether to enter the race. Biden ultimately decided to stay on the sidelines, and Obamas push to speed up the process was the source of lingering resentment for some in Bidens circle.

Clinton ultimately fell to Trump after a divisive primary where she battled progressives led by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and a general election where she failed to reconstitute Obamas coalition. In the hours after Trumps victory, Biden placed a late night call to Obama, the details of which we report for the first time in The Truce.

Boss, I told you, Biden said to Obama, according to a source familiar with the call. People just dont like her.

PHILADELPHIA, PA  NOVEMBER 05: Former U.S. President Barack Obama (R) and President Joe Biden rally for Pennsylvania Democratic Senate nominee John Fetterman and Democratic gubernatorial nominee Josh Shapiro at the Liacouras Center on November 5, 2022 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fetterman will face Republican nominee Dr. Mehmet Oz as Shapiro faces Republican Doug Mastriano on November 8 in the midterm general election. (Photo by Mark Makela/Getty Images)

In 2020, when Biden joined the presidential field, he at first seemed to experience a failure to launch. Sanders and the upstart mayor of South Bend, Indiana, Pete Buttigieg, surged to the head of the crowded Democratic field in the first two states on the primary calendar, Iowa and New Hampshire. Fast forward a couple weeks, and Biden was showing signs of life thanks to a victory in South Carolina. This time, Obama quickly and decisively got behind his former vice president.

As we report in The Truce, Obama encouraged Buttigieg and the other centrist candidates to drop out and get in line behind Biden. Within two weeks of the South Carolina primary, only Sanders and Biden were left in the race.

Obama had laid the groundwork for the maneuver by placing an initial call to the major primary candidates telling them to, as a source described it to us, give it your best shot. While Obama offered encouragement, our source said he also warned that a second call would come when he felt it was time to consolidate at the end. That final call came after Bidens South Carolina win. With the nudge from Obama, within two days of Bidens victory, Buttigieg and two other candidates, Beto ORourke and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), had dropped out of the race and dramatically endorsed Biden. With the centrist part of the field unifying around Biden, and the Covid-19 pandemic shutting down in-person campaigning, Sanders, too, was relatively quickly out of the race.

Obamas 2020 efforts on Bidens behalf didnt end there. He was also instrumental in creating the so-called party unity commissions that brought Sanders staff and allies together with Bidens  a move that has had a lasting impact on Bidens first-term policy agenda. The officials and operatives who served on these committees wrote a party platform that incorporated a number of progressive priorities. They also formed relationships that would carry forward into Congress and the Biden White House. We found that progressive leaders in Congress like Pramila Jayapal forged close ties with Bidens first chief of staff, Ron Klain, during this period.

The bridges between progressives and Biden may also have helped keep the primary field largely clear for him in 2024. They also brought him allies who will likely join Obama in working on his behalf in this years likely rematch with Trump. However, that alliance is showing signs of strain. In a podcast interview with the New Yorkers David Remnick that aired on Friday, Jayapal expressed frustration with the second half of Bidens first term and concerns about the prospects for his second campaign. Jayapal cited progressive frustrations with policy matters including housing, immigration, and the war in Gaza. While Jayapal stressed that she was still backing Biden, she warned that his coalition was in danger of fracturing as progressive voters  particularly young people  might stay home on Election Day.

The Joe Biden of the first two years does not feel like Joe Biden of this last year, Jayapal said.

Biden has always had his doubters  including, perhaps at times, Obama  and over his lifetime hes racked up enough setbacks to give those doubts genuine credibility. But during his last campaign and four years in the White House, even amid stumbles, Biden has proved politically savvy and built new relationships with allies, including on the left. As he takes on Trump a second time, Biden has a history of proving the doubters wrong and managing to heal rifts within the party. To defeat Trump, Biden will need to do that all again.

Indeed, even as the source close to Obama acknowledged the former presidents concern about the importance of this election, they stressed his faith in Biden.

He picked him to be his vice president. He is acutely aware of President Bidens political strengths, and thats why he surpassed all expectations in 2020, the source said of Obama. Given where a lot of the prognostication is right now, well be in a position to do so again in November.
Semafor Signals

Insights from Semafor, The New Yorker, Reuters, and Haaretz

The News

Multiple military escalations and airstrikes across the Middle East are amplifying concerns about the region edging closer to a larger war.

At the center of the chaos is Iran which is using its military proxies in Yemen and Lebanon to fight Israel, while also attacking Pakistan and Iraq to combat separatist militant groups.

Some security experts in the West argue that Irans attacks in Iraq, Syria, and Pakistan are not directly connected to the Israel-Hamas war, and instead stem from Tehrans internal security concerns about the yearslong threat of violence by Islamic militants and separatist groups. Other analysts counter that Iranian foreign policy is deeply rooted in anti-Israel and anti-U.S. sentiment, with the Gaza war acting as a catalyst for Irans aggression across the region.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Iran has internal security concerns, but theyre still rooted in anti-Israel rhetoric

Sources: Semafors Global Security Editor Jay Solomon, Reuters, Vox, The New York Times

Irans strike on Pakistan was motivated by domestic pressure to strengthen its internal security rather than its ambitions for the Middle East, Reuters reported, citing Iranian officials and analysts, and the tit-for-tat blows between Iran and Pakistan are occurring far from [the Gaza] war zone, the outlet said. But while Irans widening attacks may seem disconnected from the war in Gaza theyre not, Semafors Global Security Editor Jay Solomon argued, pointing to Irans decades-long accusations that the U.S. and Israel are supporting Sunni extremist groups like al-Qaida and the Islamic State to contain Tehran.

There might not be a direct link between the war and the Pakistan strikes, Vox reported, but it could be Tehrans attempt to dissuade Pakistan from helping the U.S. counter Iran in the region, and to signal its own military capabilities. Weakened by sanctions and domestic rife, Iran usually outsources its conflicts to proxies and chooses not to directly engage with the U.S. and Israel, the New York Times wrote. If they are to avoid fighting the Americans and Israelis on Irans soil, theyll have to do it elsewhere, one Middle East analyst told the Times. And thats in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Palestine, Afghanistan.

Middle East rulers fear resurgence of Islamist groups fueled by anti-Israel sentiment

Sources: The New Yorker, The Economist

The merger of multiple wars was almost inevitable, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel and Egypt told the New Yorker, because the dearth of viable ideas and -isms created a political vacuum that was filled by extremist movements that were viewed as more legitimate than what secular non-Islamic states had to offer the region. The resurgence of theological politics was particularly seen in failed states" with dim economic prospects: Iranian-proxy groups filled the gap in Yemen and Lebanon, and the Islamic State in Syria, according to the Economist. But in more developed countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt, Islam has become increasingly depoliticised, the magazine wrote, as citizens rejected political Islam in the face of globalization. However, Israels bombardment of Gaza has now put Middle Eastern rulers on alert for an Islamist resurgence, with one Chatham House analyst saying the Gaza War could be the kiss of life for groups like the Muslim Brotherhood.

Outdated US policy has made Iran dominant force in the Middle East

Sources: The Guardian, Haaretz

Iran is in the driving seat now as U.S. President Joe Biden pursues an outdated and out of touch policy of unconditionally supporting Israel that has failed to solve the decades-long Palestine dispute, wrote foreign affairs columnist Simon Tisdall for The Guardian. Tehrans proxy militias across the region are willing to outlast the US, and the U.S. bombing of Houthi bases will only fuel Tehrans anti-western, anti-Israel region-wide resistance narrative, he wrote. Not everything is an overspill of the Gaza war, Haaretz columnist Alon Pinkas argued, and the common factor across the conflicts in the region is Iran, not Gaza. Which is why the U.S. should focus on co-opting regional allies instead of trying to extinguish local flare-ups, Pinkas wrote.
Pakistan launched airstrikes in Iran Thursday in retaliation for Iran's barrage into Pakistan earlier in the week, as both appear to target militant separatists operating near the countries' shared border. (AP Digital Embed)

ISLAMABAD (AP)  Irans foreign minister will visit Pakistan next week, the two countries said Monday, following unprecedented attacks on either side of the border last week that appeared to target Baluch militant groups with similar separatist goals.

The countries accuse each other of providing a haven to the groups in their respective territories.

Pakistans military and political leadership last Friday moved to de-escalate tensions with Iran. Iran's state-run IRNA news agency said that Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian spoke to Pakistani counterpart Jalil Abbas Jilani to defuse the flare-up.

Pakistan said in a statement Amirabdollahian that would visit the country on Jan. 29. The statement also said that the two foreign ministers agreed that the ambassadors from both countries could return to their posts by Jan. 26.

Pakistan recalled its ambassador amid the brief crisis and stopped Irans envoy from returning to his post.
There are some innocent people in our Missouri prisons, and Ed Reuscher, who almost everyone calls Butch, is not one of them.

But should he still be there for the despicable things he did when he was 18, the year George H.W. Bush was inaugurated and the Berlin Wall came down?

Only if we think that change is impossible, that brain science is irrelevant, and that redemption in this life should be off the table. Year after year, our state lawmakers do take that position. They have never even seriously considered the perennially proposed legislation that would give those handed life sentences without the possibility of parole when they were 18 or 19 a chance  not a guarantee, but a chance  at freedom after 30 years.

The man that self-taught artist Butch Reuscher has become since his arrest 35 years ago shows why I hope they will finally take a real look at the two such bills that have already been proposed this session.

Reuscher spent seven years on death row for his part in the breathtakingly brutal murder of 22-year-old Bobby Wood, who was sound asleep in a friends Clay County apartment on Dec. 19, 1989. Around 4 a.m., Reuscher and his 20-year-old co-defendant, Ken Melton, started beating him for no reason that either man can even remember now.

It was so senseless, and sad, Melton told me in a phone interview from the Jefferson City Correctional Center, where Reuscher is an inmate as well. The victim was just there, out cold on the floor of the place where Melton was staying, too  the communal party pad of a friend who was in jail at the time.

Maybe that was just the perfect place to explode at the end of a night that had already gone horribly wrong. Melton says he had already shot and wounded two people that evening, one a guy with whom he and several friends, Reuscher included, had been fighting, and the other a woman who just happened to be walking down the street when he fired out the car window. You think its like the movies.

After that, the plan was to steal Bobby Woods black Thunderbird and head for Florida. Theres nothing I could explain where people could say, Oh, that makes sense,  Melton told me. We were getting out of town and taking his car, but we could have just walked out the door with his keys.

Instead, Melton said, he beat Wood with a fire extinguisher, a whiskey bottle, a pipe and the butt of a shotgun, then dropped a television on him. And he was stabbed. That was me. What they said I did, I did. Court records show that Wood was cut a total of 22 times, in the throat, heart and testicles.

And Reuscher? He hit and kicked Wood at the beginning, Melton said. He hit him a couple of times, and then I dont remember him on the scene any more. After all that, the two did take Woods car, and promptly wrecked it.

Reuscher, who like Melton had been drinking whiskey all night and abusing steroids for a while, later said Melton had forced his involvement. He told me he was never really sure what he did to Wood.

But I know I was there, when Wood was slaughtered, and I could have done it. I put myself there, I put myself here, and I dont blame anyone else.

Conviction, sentence overturned for ineffective lawyer

After a police interrogation that went on for 72 hours  and no, no defense lawyer or parent was ever involved  Reuscher said he was told that if he confessed, he could go home, and so thats what he did.

In 1996, both Reuschers conviction and sentence were overturned because of the ineffective counsel of his original attorney, Robert Duncan, who was later disbarred for tax evasion and died in 1997.

Duncan spoke a total of 18 lines during Reuschers trial, and this was his closing argument: Ladies and gentlemen, hes 18 years old; what can I say? Not exactly Paul Newman in The Verdict, in other words.

Reuschers parents sold their home to pay Duncan. Yet his defense of their son was so indifferent that he never even asked for a copy of the testing that showed that while Meltons clothes were covered in the victims blood, all of the blood on Reuschers clothing was his own. Prosecutors never asked for that report either, said Robert Frank Booth, the retired KCPD forensic chemist who did the testing.

None of the tested stains on Reuschers clothes were from Robert Wood, Booth wrote in a 2015 letter to then-Gov. Jay Nixon as part of a clemency petition. I was never approached about testifying in the trial of Mr. Reuscher, nor was I consulted, questioned or involved by anyone before the trial.  Several years after the conviction, I was contacted about my report.  I will always wonder how Mr. Reuschers jury would have weighed testimony about the bloodstains.

Can you beat someone as violently as Wood was beaten without getting a speck of that persons DNA on you? No. But, and I say this with respect for the many attorneys I know who are dedicated advocates, it too often takes more money than the Reuschers had  Butchs dad drove a Wonder Bread truck  to afford a lawyer who would have done the work required to be able to point that out.

The regularity with which I talk to lawyers for people without means who have taken that familys last dollar and yet neither know nor even pretend to care about the case in question is appalling. The way our criminal justice system works is in a way capricious, and yet so reliably favors those who can afford the best lawyers and experts that we could also say it works exactly as it was designed to do.

Prisoner Ed Butch Reuscher paints

Victims mother: Death penalty would feel like justice

In 1997, after Reuschers conviction had been overturned, he might have gotten a new trial. But unless he pleaded guilty, the prosecutor said, well then the state would go for the death penalty all over again.

At that point, the court did bring together the two families, Reuschers and his victims, and while Woods father said he could accept a sentence of life without parole, Woods mother said only the death penalty would feel like justice to her.

She said I didnt cry, when the two families sat across from one another, so I must not be sorry, said Reuschers mother Debbie, who has cried plenty both before and since that day. Of course she felt that way, and probably still does, Reuscher told me. That was her baby.

Debbie Reuschers 53-year-old baby is not who he was in 1989. But even in his early years behind bars, the other death row inmates made fun of him for pursuing his GED; why would he bother? Because he owed his parents that much, he said, and also because he was done with wasting his time.

As soon as I got here, Reuscher told me, I thought, Im going to be productive. Im not going to lay around and get worse, or lay around and be just a number.

He had always had a supportive, close family, including three younger siblings who grew up visiting him regularly. To better understand the system, his mother went back to school and became an investigator for the Jackson County Public Defenders Office.

Charged in assault of teen hitchhiker

Butch Reuscher had really only gone wrong during his year of steroid addiction, but he inflicted a lot of harm that year.

In June of 1989, he was charged with sodomy  and lest you wonder, as I initially did, whether maybe this was a case of cops criminalizing some same-sex fooling around, it wasnt. When I asked Butch about what happened that night, he said exactly what the police report did: He and a friend had picked up a 15-year-old hitchhiker, then beat and sexually assaulted him. Reuscher told me he would have raped him, too, if the cops hadnt shown up when they did.

The victim could not identify him, so the judge said that if he could stay out of trouble for just two weeks after his December 1989 hearing, well then those charges would be dropped. Only, it was on the 13th day that Wood was killed.

My lawyer said if you plead guilty to the sodomy charge, Reuscher said, then they wont convict you of murder. Instead, because of that prior sodomy conviction, and the shootings earlier that night, he was looking at a first-degree rather than a second-degree murder charge.

Both the shootings and the murder were attributed to Reuscher as well as Melton after authorities said that a polygraph  always controversial, and increasingly discredited as junk science  suggested that Meltons statement taking full responsibility for the shootings wasnt truthful.

Ed Butch Reuscher posted this photo of a shark painting on his Facebook page.

Helps run art room at prison

He should never have caught that case, said Reuschers longtime friend, Sister Lenora Pipes, a Sister of Mercy who met him when she was working at the county jail in Liberty. He helped her run the GED program there, she said, and they still talk every couple of weeks, mostly about Scripture.

She told me hes currently trying to help a terminally ill inmate get more centered and make peace with God in the time he has left. Hes a positive influence, but he shouldnt be in there.

So why should Reuscher get even a chance at a second chance?

Not because hes such a talented artist and art teacher, though he is, and effectively runs the art room at the prison.

Not because he works in prison hospice, or because he paints portraits for crime victims, or even because he has friends who are nuns and lawmakers. I love Butch, says state Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern. He lives every day with purpose, and the chance of someone like Butch reoffending is next to zero.

He should get that chance because hes changed, but also because granting second chances would make us who we say we are.

Obviously, we cant take away the past. Id give my left arm to take it all back, Reuscher said. Since thats impossible, Id like people to look at who we are now, and what weve done since weve been here. If he did get out, he said, hed return to his family, continue with his art, and go to work for his uncles asphalt company.

I called the man who prosecuted him, former Clay County prosecuting attorney Michael Reardon, to see what he thought. First, he asked me to refresh his memory about the case. But when I had just started to do that, he stopped me.

Youre leaving something out, he told me. Namely, that Reuscher had confessed, and whats more, told police that he had been the first to hit Wood, with a fire extinguisher. We have a statement, and thats the reason he was convicted, he said. Thats the evidence.

If it really had gone down that way, then Woods blood would have been on Reuscher as well as on Melton. But Im not leaving anything out, and told Reardon what Reuscher said about being promised he could go home if he confessed.

The police do a lot of things to get people to make statements, he answered. But this was in the middle of his statement, and so not something he said right after anything the police might have promised him. My perception of it was that it was a joint venture between Reuscher and Melton.

Does he think it possible that Reuscher is a different person today?

I do a lot of criminal defense work now, Reardon said, and thats an argument I make all the time. So see, were all different 35 years on.

Im not too crazy about life without parole for someone that age, Reardon said, and there comes a point in time, when on a case-by-case basis, legislation ought to make parole for those in that situation possible.

Former police officers object to parole reform

I noticed when I read the two current bills written with Butch Reuscher in mind  House Bills 2204 and 2127  that they would actually have to be amended to apply to him, because he does have the two prior felony convictions.

But Missouri state Rep. Ian Mackey, who has once again introduced one of those bills, 2127, said the major roadblock to parole reform is the handful of former police officers in the Missouri House who argue that to support second chances is to be soft on crime.

This was a Republican bill in the day, he said, but now anyone who goes rogue  and agrees that such legislation makes sense can count on getting a primary opponent claiming they want more murderers out on the street.

I reached out to all of the former officers I know of who serve in the Missouri House  state Reps. Barry Hovis, Jeff Myers, Ron Copeland and Lane Roberts  to better understand their opposition, and none of them responded. If they ever do, Ill be happy to update this column.

Meanwhile, I can only hope that our state updates its thinking on throwing away those whove made serious mistakes before their brains have fully developed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with representatives of the hostages' families, at the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister's Media Dept/GPO/dpa

Israel has called a Hamas proposal for releasing hostages "ludicrous" as the militant Palestinian group wants Israel to release those responsible for murders and rapes on October 7 in exchange for the people it kidnapped.

"Hamas' ludicrous demand that the [Israel Defense Forces] fully withdraw from Gaza and that we release the Hamas ... rapists and murderers who committed the atrocities of October 7 in exchange for the release of our hostages," Avi Hyman, an Israeli government spokesman, said on Monday.

"And as if that's not enough, we were told that we would also have to establish a Palestinian state," Hyman said.

He said this would simply be "a capitulation to Hamas" disguised as a "peace agreement." It is essential for Israel to achieve "a full victory in this war," he said, adding that Israel cannot win the war "until Hamas is fully destroyed."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that "there is no genuine proposal" from Hamas in Gaza to release more hostages, but Israel has an initiative, which he refused to elaborate on.

His comments came as hostage relatives stormed a Knesset meeting in Jerusalem that had to be cancelled because of the protest. Relatives have been pushing hard for a new hostage deal.

Hyman said the families want a ceasefire in exchange for the hostages' release, but the Israeli government's position is that "there can be no path towards victory until Hamas is fully destroyed."

Netanyahu told the hostage familes that "contrary to what is said  there is no genuine proposal by Hamas, this is not true."

"On the other hand, there is our initiative, which I will not detail," Netanyahu said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with representatives of the hostages' families, at the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister's Media Dept/GPO/dpa

Israel has called a Hamas proposal for releasing hostages "ludicrous" as the militant Palestinian group wants Israel to release those responsible for murders and rapes on October 7 in exchange for the people it kidnapped.

"Hamas' ludicrous demand that the [Israel Defense Forces] fully withdraw from Gaza and that we release the Hamas ... rapists and murderers who committed the atrocities of October 7 in exchange for the release of our hostages," Avi Hyman, an Israeli government spokesman, said on Monday.

"And as if that's not enough, we were told that we would also have to establish a Palestinian state," Hyman said.

He said this would simply be "a capitulation to Hamas" disguised as a "peace agreement." It is essential for Israel to achieve "a full victory in this war," he said, adding that Israel cannot win the war "until Hamas is fully destroyed."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that "there is no genuine proposal" from Hamas in Gaza to release more hostages, but Israel has an initiative, which he refused to elaborate on.

His comments came as hostage relatives stormed a Knesset meeting in Jerusalem that had to be cancelled because of the protest. Relatives have been pushing hard for a new hostage deal.

Hyman said the families want a ceasefire in exchange for the hostages' release, but the Israeli government's position is that "there can be no path towards victory until Hamas is fully destroyed."

Netanyahu told the hostage familes that "contrary to what is said  there is no genuine proposal by Hamas, this is not true."

"On the other hand, there is our initiative, which I will not detail," Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu had said on Sunday that he rejected Hamas' conditions for the release of the hostages, which he said included not only a demand to an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, but also the release of Palestinian prisoners and the continuation of Hamas' governing power in Gaza.

According to Israeli information, more than 130 hostages who were abducted by militants from Hamas and other groups on October 7 are still being held in the Gaza Strip. They have been there for 108 days.

The United States, Egypt and Qatar are putting pressure on Israel and Hamas to enter into negotiations that should lead to the release of hostages and the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip, according to media reports.

The negotiations should continue in Cairo in the coming days, the Wall Street Journal reported.

US President Joe Biden's Middle East coordinator, Brett McGurk, will meet Abbas Kamel, the head of Egyptian intelligence in Cairo, according to a New York Times report from Sunday evening, citing US officials.

McGurk, who was due to leave on Sunday, would later travel on to Doha to meet Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdel-Rahman Al Thani.

In November, 105 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners during a week-long ceasefire as part of a deal.

Meanwhile on the ground, at least 190 Palestinians have been killed within 24 hours in ongoing Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority. Another 340 were injured, it said in a statement on Monday.

This brings the number of people killed in the coastal strip since the start of the war three and a half months ago to 25,295. Around 63,000 others have been injured.

The figures could not initially be independently verified.

The spokesman for the health authority also announced on Monday that 40 dead had been buried in a mass grave in the Nasser Hospital area in the city of Khan Younis due to the circumstances.

Israeli media also reported fierce fighting in the area of Khan Younis. Israel suspects the leadership of Hamas are hiding in the underground tunnel network there. It is also likely that hostages are being held there.

Palestinian paramedics reported that they were unable to reach the area to treat the injured due to the massive Israeli attacks. The Palestinian Red Crescent accused the Israeli army of blockading one of the organization's rescue stations in the southern Gaza Strip and attacking anyone who moved there.

Israel has repeatedly accused Hamas of misusing medical facilities and ambulances for military purposes. Hamas rejects this.

The war was triggered by the worst massacre in Israel's history, carried out by Hamas and other extremist Palestinian organizations in Israel near the border with the Gaza Strip on October 7, in which some 1,200 people in Israel were killed.

According to military figures, 196 servicemen and women have been killed since the start of the Israeli ground offensive in the Gaza at the end of October and more than 1,200 others have been injured.

A total of 532 servicemen and women, including those killed on October 7, have been killed since the start of the war, the Israeli military said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with representatives of the hostages' families, at the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister's Media Dept/GPO/dpa

Israel has called a Hamas proposal for releasing hostages "ludicrous" as the militant Palestinian group wants Israel to release those responsible for murders and rapes on October 7 in exchange for the people it kidnapped.

"Hamas' ludicrous demand [is] that the [Israel Defense Forces] fully withdraw from Gaza and that we release the Hamas ... rapists and murderers who committed the atrocities of October 7 in exchange for the release of our hostages," Avi Hyman, an Israeli government spokesman, said on Monday.

"And as if that's not enough, we were told that we would also have to establish a Palestinian state," Hyman said.

He said this would simply be "a capitulation to Hamas" disguised as a "peace agreement." It is essential for Israel to achieve "a full victory in this war," he said, adding that Israel cannot win the war "until Hamas is fully destroyed."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that "there is no genuine proposal" from Hamas in Gaza to release more hostages, but Israel has an initiative, which he refused to elaborate on.

His comments came as hostage relatives stormed a Knesset meeting in Jerusalem that had to be cancelled because of the protest. Relatives have been pushing hard for a new hostage deal.

Hyman said the families want a ceasefire in exchange for the hostages' release, but the Israeli government's position is that "there can be no path towards victory until Hamas is fully destroyed."

According to Israeli information, more than 130 hostages who were abducted by militants from Hamas and other groups on October 7 are still being held in the Gaza Strip. They have been there for 108 days.

The United States, Egypt and Qatar are putting pressure on Israel and Hamas to enter into negotiations that should lead to the release of hostages and the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip, according to media reports.

In November, 105 hostages were released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners during a week-long ceasefire as part of a deal.

Back in Israel, opposition leader Yair Lapid called on Netanyahu to call new elections.

A new Israeli election could be called either through a vote of no confidence or a dissolution of the Knesset, Lapid said.

Polls show that Netanyahu would face a massive defeat in a new vote, with his Likud party seen as receiving 16 seats, or half of its current 32.

Meanwhile on the ground, the Israeli military expanded its offensive in southern Gaza, with eyewitnesses reporting fierce clashes between Israeli soldiers and Hamas fighters west of Khan Younis on Monday.

The fighting took place in the immediate vicinity of two hospitals and tent cities for refugees from the north of the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian Red Crescent spoke of dozens of dead and injured.

The IDF confirmed it had made a major advance in the west of Khan Younis into an area it had not previously entered, according to Israeli media reports.

The aim is to incapacitate the Hamas brigade in Khan Younis. So far, 50 Hamas fighters, including a company commander, have been killed. The IDF said three of its soldiers had been killed.

The army is aware that it is operating in an extremely densely populated area, it added. At the same time, however, it is confronted with the fact that Hamas terrorists are repeatedly attacking it from hospitals, mosques and residential areas, it said.

The spokesman for the Hamas-controlled health authority said on Monday that 40 dead had been buried in a mass grave in the Nasser Hospital area in Khan Younis.

Palestinian paramedics reported that they were unable to reach the area to treat the injured due to the massive Israeli attacks. The Palestinian Red Crescent accused the IDF of blockading one of the organization's rescue stations in the southern Gaza Strip and attacking anyone who moved there.

Khan Younis is considered a Hamas stronghold. It is the birthplace of Hamas Gaza leader Yehya al-Sinwar, who is believed to be at the top of Israel's most wanted list.

The health authority said at least 190 Palestinians have been killed within 24 hours and 340 were injured. This brings the number of people killed in the coastal strip since the start of the war three and a half months ago to 25,295. Around 63,000 others have been injured.

The figures could not initially be independently verified.

On Israel's northern border, Israeli jets struck several Hezbollah posts in southern Lebanon on Monday after Hezbollah claimed responsibility for at least three attacks on military posts in northern Israel, Lebanese security sources and the Israeli army said.

Warplanes struck a "military structure" of the pro-Iranian Shiite movement in Maroun El Ras in southern Lebanon, where possible ammunition depots were present, the IDF said on its Telegram channel.

The IDF said it found "several Hezbollah terrorists" inside the structure and following a strike there were numerous secondary explosions "indicating the presence of weapons inside the structure."
In January 2024, South Africa launched a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the latter of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. On Oct. 7, 2023, a group of Hamas fighters launched a deadly attack on Israel, to which Israel retaliated by bombing Gaza. Those actions resulted in the deaths of more than 20,000 people, the vast majority of whom were Palestinian. Hamas' attacks came after months of surges in violence against Palestinians by the Israeli military.

South Africas legal team argued that Israel has committed a series of violations of the 1948 Genocide Convention, which both countries (Israel and South Africa) were party to.

South Africa also sought an injunction against Israel to stop its military operations in Gaza, noting that more than 23,000 Palestinians had been killed in Israeli operations since October 2023.

Israel rejected South Africas accusations, arguing that it had the right to defend itself after Hamas Oct. 7 attack, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis, most of whom were civilians. Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, is a Sunni Islamist political party and military organization that's considered a terrorist group by the U.S. and European Union (EU).

The key question being asked in these proceedings is whether Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, which we explore below.

What Is Genocide?

The term "genocide" was coined by Polish-Jewish lawyer Raphael Lemkin in 1944 in his book "Axis Rule in Occupied Europe." The term combines the Greek prefix genos, which means race or tribe, and the Latin suffix cide, which means killing.

Lemkin described "genocide" partly in the context of Nazi policies to exterminate the Jewish people during the Holocaust, as well as other documented instances of targeting specific communities. Most of his description focused on the cultural extermination of a people  emphasizing the states erasure of religious, economic, cultural, political identity  as well as the act of killing. A more detailed description can be read in the preface of "Axis Rule in Occupied Europe."

The Genocide Convention of 1948 defines the term using similar but more vaguely worded descriptions. Article II of the convention states:

In the present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:

(a) Killing members of the group;

(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;

(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its

physical destruction in whole or in part;

(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;

(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.

As of April 2022, the Convention had been ratified by 153 nations.

What Historic Events Have Been Described as Genocides?

The framing of events as genocide has often been disputed by the parties who inflicted violence on specific groups. For example, Turkey does not recognize the killing of 1-1.5 million ethnic Armenians by the then-Ottoman empire in the early 20th century as a genocide. Armenians call the killings the first genocide of the 20th century, an argument supported by most scholars.

The United States was among the countries slow to recognize it as genocide. The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee termed the killings a genocide in a resolution in 2010, but fears of alienating Turkey, an important ally, led to then-U.S. President Barack Obama lobbying against the resolution. In 2021, almost a century after the events occurred, U.S. President Joe Biden became the first in his position to declare the mass killings of Armenians a genocide.

The use of the term has been fraught in courts. The ICJ has never judged a country responsible for genocide largely because, as David Simon, director of the genocide studies program at Yale, told us over email, so few cases exist of a country bringing another to court for genocide. The ICJ is a civil tribunal that overhears disputes between countries, but it has little investigative power and no police force or enforcement ability. The ICJs court orders are considered legally binding under international law but countries do not always adhere to them. The ICJ is judging the matter of South Africa v. Israel as a treaty dispute and not a criminal caseas it does not have the mandate to consider criminal cases. Hamas, which has political control of the Palestinian territory of Gaza, cannot be a part of the proceedings because it is not a state, nor is it a signatory to the Genocide Convention.

In 2007, the ICJ did say Serbia violated the obligation to prevent genocide (emphasis, ours) when more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were massacred by nationalist Serb forces in July 1995, while exonerating Serbia from direct responsibility for the killings, rapes and "ethnic cleansing." The court also said genocide occurred only in Srebrenica where the aforementioned killings took place and not in other parts of Bosnia.

Gambia took Myanmar to the ICJ in 2019, accusing it of committing genocide against the Rohingya. In 2020, the court directed Myanmar to "take all measures within its power" to prevent the commission of acts defined in the Genocide Convention, though the case is still ongoing. Ukraines case brought against Russia in 2022 accusing the country of planning genocide is still pending at the court.

The first official conviction for genocide of a person under international law took place in 1998. The United Nations Security Council-organized International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) declared Jean-Paul Akayesu guilty for acts he engaged in and oversaw as mayor of the Rwandan town of Taba. The trials continued for more than a decade, which included the 2008 conviction of three former senior Rwandan defense and military officials for organizing the genocide. Genocide trials also took place in Rwandan courts. (The International Criminal Court or ICC  a separate body from the ICJ that conducts criminal tribunals unlike the ICJ which conducts civil tribunals was created in an effort to avoid the ad hoc nature of tribunals like the ICTR. However, some African countries complained that the court disproportionately targeted African countries.)

Scholars debate whether current events in Gaza should be considered genocide. In November 2023, U.N. experts illustrated what they said was evidence of increasing genocidal incitement in Israel, overt intent to destroy the Palestinian people under occupation, calls for a second Nakba" (a word that means "catastrophe," referring to the 1948 expulsion of 750,000 Palestinians from their homes by Zionist forces) in Gaza and the rest of the occupied Palestinian territory, and the use of powerful weaponry with indiscriminate impacts, resulting in a colossal death toll and destruction of life-sustaining infrastructure.

Israeli historian Raz Segal wrote in October 2023 that Israels actions in Gaza were a textbook case of genocide. He cited the words of Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant as an example of incitement to genocide. Gallant had declared on Oct. 9, 2023: We are imposing a complete siege on Gaza. No electricity, no food, no water, no fuel. Everything is closed. We are fighting human animals, and we will act accordingly.

However, others disagreed. Ben Kiernan, director of the Cambodian Genocide Program at Yale University, told Time magazine, Israel's retaliatory bombing of Gaza, however indiscriminate, and its current ground attacks, despite the numerous civilian casualties they are causing among Gaza's Palestinian population, do not meet the very high threshold that is required to meet the legal definition of genocide. Many scholars told Time that finding parties guilty of crimes against humanity was a likelier outcome than a conviction of genocide.

What Are Parties in the ICJ South Africa Case Saying?

South Africa seeks to prove that Israel's actions against the Palestinians in Gaza constitute genocide by relying on the definition laid out in the Genocide Convention (shared above). Adila Hassim, South Africa's advocate, contends that Israel had violated Article II of the convention.

The first example raised was the mass killing of Palestinians in Gaza while showing photographs of mass graves that were often unidentified. The second, they argued, was serious bodily or mental harm inflicted on Palestinians in Gaza, noting that around 60,000 Palestinians were wounded and maimed, the majority of them women and children, and civilians including children who had been arrested, blindfolded, and forced to undress.

Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, another lawyer, argued that Israeli political leaders and others in official positions had systematically and in explicit terms declared their genocidal intent. He recalled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus words from Oct. 28, 2023, when he urged ground troops entering Gaza to remember what Amalek has done to you, referring to the biblical command by God to Saul for the retaliatory destruction of an entire group of people, the lawyer said.

Israels team, in response, argued that South Africa had decontextualized and distorted Israel's military actions in Gaza. They said Hamas attack on villages on Oct. 7, 2023, and their taking of hundreds of hostages, started the war, and Israel was acting in self-defense. Tal Becker, a legal expert on the team, said Israel was fighting a war it did not start and did not want.

In response to claims about genocidal intent of Israeli leaders, the Israeli legal team argued that the statements were taken out of context and did not conform with government policy. The Israeli team focused on the Oct. 7 attack, sharing video footage and audio with the court. The team also said that Hamas was using civilians as human shields, and that Israel had attempted to minimize harm by issuing warnings.

We reached out to a number of experts to learn their views in light of the ICJ case, and will update this story as we get more information.

Yale's David Simon told us that while South Africas case is powerful, as a narrative [...] it is not quite perfectly sealed as a legal case, partially because much of the law pertaining to genocide is not settled, resting as it does on a somewhat vaguely worded convention and a fairly small body of case law.

The "hidden weakness" in South Africa's argument, Simon said, which Israel "latched onto in its response, was the nature of the connection between [so-called genocide inciting] statements and those harm-causing actions. Clearly they are not unrelated, but are the elements of intent discernable? Somebody may be intending to destroy the Palestinians of Gaza, but are those somebodies the ones designing the policies that are causing damage and harm?"

He added while Israel appears to have inflicted a number of enumerated harms (related to the crime of genocide) on Gaza, it is more difficult to prove genocidal intent:

I would say there are roughly two major categories of statements alleged to indicate genocidal intent. The first category includes statements by Israeli firebrands who dehumanize Palestinians in bloodthirsty language. Most, as far as I can tell, are by people unlikely to have had an impact on the intent of those actually conducting operations in Gaza  though there is a question as to whether individual soldiers or units on the ground who embraced or engaged in such rhetoric are liable for committing acts of genocide, which could be possible without the situation as a whole (all of the violence) constituting genocide. This category also includes statements by Netanyahu and other high-ranking Israelis that clearly dehumanize Palestinians and appear to incite violence against them. Again, it is not clear that these actually informed the shape of defense strategy or policy. [...] There is a case that they could have done so, but there is also a plausible rebuttal that IDF undertook its actions on the basis of strategic planning that were not at all informed by such exhortations, and were strictly limited to an attempt to punish or even eliminate Hamas. The second category are statements by politicians that make claims along the lines of "all Gazans are supporters of Hamas, and are thus fair to target in this (so-called) defensive operation." Russia has made similar claims with respect to its invasion of Ukraine, and it does seem like a tripwire into genocidal intent territory. [...] South Africa would need to show that these statements reflect the actual intent of the designers of the policy.

We should note that South Africa did present video evidence of Israeli soldiers dancing and repeating Netanyahus statements about Amalek and singing there is no such thing as uninvolved civilians.

Discussing the merits of South Africas case, Simon added:

[The] strongest element of the South African case is that the policy of imposing a state of siege on Gaza through limiting energy, food, medicine, and other basics of daily life, which is reported to be leading to a famine, is tantamount to "imposing upon a group conditions of life intended to bring about its destruction" (i.e., the language of clause 2c of the Convention). It is strong as a legal matter because some of the utterances that the brief quotes regarding the imposition of siege policies speak to the intentional harm of all those likely to suffer from it and not just those connected to Hamas. As the effects of the siege become more extreme, I think the genocidal charge on this element of the Israeli campaign becomes more plausible.

He added that evidence of genocide had been inevitably easier to determine in hindsight. The Holocaust, he said, had records of the Wanssee Conference (meetings of high-ranking Nazi Party officials to discuss implementation of the so-called Final Solution" of mass killings of Jews), while Rwanda had transcripts from hate radio as well testimonies of participants at genocidaire (referring to the French term for "those who commit genocide" that became commonly used in Rwanda after the genocide) leadership meetings.

One thing that may come out in the future is documentation about the deliberations behind Israel's war strategy," he added:

Maybe the discussions over the siege policy will reveal a state consensus that suggests intent. Maybe someone will uncover statements that show that Israel's "fair warnings" to Gazan civilians (problematic for many reasons as they are) were designed only as a facade, and not seriously implemented to prevent harm. Or maybe evidence will come out the other way, showing in great detail how Israel actually did seek to avoid civilian casualties but Hamas maneuvered to place Gazan civilians in the line of fire. All of those are hypothetical developments reflecting active contentions of the moment.

Ultimately, Simon added, the case brought by South Africa was the best use of institutions that are available. i.e., the ICJ under Article 9 of the text of the Genocidal Convention to request a definitive-as-it-gets assessment of whether a genocide is occurring.

Sources:

"Africa Attacks the International Criminal Court." Human Rights Watch. 14 Jan. 2014, https://www.hrw.org/news/2014/01/14/africa-attacks-international-criminal-court. Accessed 23 Jan. 2024.

Cheeseman, Nic, et al. Genocidaires. A Dictionary of African Politics, Oxford University Press, 2019. www.oxfordreference.com, https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/acref/9780191828836.001.0001/acref-9780191828836-e-152. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

Chotiner, Isaac. How to Define Genocide. The New Yorker, 16 Nov. 2023. www.newyorker.com, https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/how-to-define-genocide. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Day One of the ICJ Genocide Hearing against Israel: Key Takeaways. Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/11/day-one-of-the-icj-genocide-hearing-against-israel-key-takeaways. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Frayer, Lauren. Israel Revises down Its Death Toll from the Oct. 7 Hamas Attacks to about 1,200. NPR, 11 Nov. 2023. NPR, https://www.npr.org/2023/11/11/1212458974/israel-revises-death-toll-hamas-attacks-oct-7. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Gaza: UN Experts Call on International Community to Prevent Genocide against the Palestinian People. United Nations, Nov. 2023, https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2023/11/gaza-un-experts-call-international-community-prevent-genocide-against. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Greenblatt, Alan. The Tricky Business Of Defining Genocide. NPR, 5 Mar. 2010. https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124358412. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Haddad, Mohammed. Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine. Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/5/15/ethnic-cleansing-of-palestine. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

"ICC: Q&A about the ICC." Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/legacy/campaigns/icc/qna.htm#:~:text=The%20International%20Court%20of%20Justice%20(ICJ%20or%20World%20Court)%20is,tribunal%20that%20will%20prosecute%20individuals. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

"ICJ  The Gambia v. Myanmar." United Nations. https://iimm.un.org/icj-the-gambia-v-myanmar/. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Is Whats Happening in Gaza a Genocide? Experts Weigh In. TIME, 13 Nov. 2023, https://time.com/6334409/is-whats-happening-gaza-genocide-experts/. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Israel Defends Itself at the UNs Top Court against Allegations of Genocide in Gaza. AP News, 12 Jan. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/world-court-israel-genocide-gaza-south-africa-65b087102893dd06222370b10f0b4e4d. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

"Israel Says South Africa Distorting the Truth in ICJ Genocide Case." BBC, 12 Jan. 2024. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-67944903. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Israeli Soldiers Sing no Uninvolved Civilians in Video Shown to ICJ Genocide Hearing. Sky News, https://news.sky.com/video/south-africa-brings-genocide-case-against-israel-at-icj-13046226. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Lawal, Shola. ICJ Genocide Case: What Are Israels Arguments and Do They Hold up? Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/12/icj-genocide-case-what-are-israels-main-arguments. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Nations, United. The Global Fight for Justice: How Genocide Prevention Became Law. United Nations, https://www.un.org/en/video/global-fight-justice-how-genocide-prevention-became-law. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Raphael Lemkin. Axis Rule In Occupied Europe Raphael Lemkin. 1944. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/AxisRuleInOccupiedEuropeRaphaelLemkin. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Reactions to Bidens Recognition of Armenian Genocide. Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/4/24/reactions-to-biden-recognition-of-armenian-genocide. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

"Rwanda: Justice After Genocide20 Years On." Human Rights Watch. 28 Mar. 2014, https://www.hrw.org/news/2014/03/28/rwanda-justice-after-genocide-20-years. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Rwandan Genocide - Facts, Response & Trials. HISTORY, 19 May 2023, https://www.history.com/topics/africa/rwandan-genocide. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Segal, Raz. A Textbook Case of Genocide. Jewish Currents, 13 Oct. 2023, https://jewishcurrents.org/a-textbook-case-of-genocide. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

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Sito-Sucic, Daria, and Gordana Katana. ICJ Rejects Request for Revision of Bosnia Genocide Ruling. Reuters, 9 Mar. 2017. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKBN16G25X/. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

South Africa Tells Top UN Court Israel Is Committing Genocide in Gaza as Landmark Case Begins. AP News, 11 Jan. 2024, https://apnews.com/article/world-court-israel-genocide-gaza-south-africa-774ab3c3d57fd7bcc627602eaf47fd98. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Taub, Amanda. Why Its so Controversial to Call the Armenian Genocide a Genocide. Vox, 22 Apr. 2015, https://www.vox.com/2015/4/22/8465257/armenian-genocide. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

Taub, Amanda. What Might Happen Next in the Genocide Case Against Israel. The New York Times, 19 Jan. 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/19/world/europe/israel-south-africa-genocide-icj.html. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

"The Conflicts." International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. https://www.icty.org/en/about/what-former-yugoslavia/conflicts. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

Ukraine Files Genocide Case against Russia at UNs Top Court. AP News, 27 Feb. 2022, https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-media-united-nations-netherlands-moscow-8ef82dabe40c0340c162f61479a9aa27. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

"United Nations Treaty Collection." https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=IND&mtdsg_no=IV-1&chapter=4&clang=_en&_gl=1*nithmi*_ga*OTYwNzQwNjEwLjE3MDQ4OTM2NTI.*_ga_TK9BQL5X7Z*MTcwNTA4NzQ5OC4zLjAuMTcwNTA4NzUwMi4wLjAuMA.. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

"Wannsee Conference and the Final Solution." United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/wannsee-conference-and-the-final-solution. Accessed 19 Jan. 2024.

What Is Hamas? A Simple Guide to the Armed Palestinian Group. Al Jazeera, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/8/what-is-the-group-hamas-a-simple-guide-tothe-palestinian-group. Accessed 22 Jan. 2024.

Updates:

Jan. 23, 2024: The story was updated with clarifying language around the roles of the ICJ and the ICC.
The US and UK have launched a second round of air strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The strikes were launched on Monday night against Houthi missile and drone launching sites in Yemen, a US defence official told The Telegraph, following weeks of assaults by the group against naval and commercial ships in the Bab el-Mandab Strait in the Red Sea.

Mondays strikes involved four RAF Typhoons and two Voyager refuelling aircraft. They used Paveway IV guided bombs to strike multiple targets at two locations near an airfield at Sanaa, the Yemeni capital.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said the locations were being used to enable the continued intolerable attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea.

According to US Central Command, missile systems and launchers, air defence systems, radars and deeply buried weapons storage facilities were among the targets.

The air strikes follow a joint US-UK operation launched earlier this month, which saw RAF Typhoon jets join the US Navy and Air Force in bombing 70 sites used by the Iran-backed group to launch missile and drone attacks.

Aircraft preparing to launch from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) during flight operations in the Red Sea - US Navy

The UKs involvement in the strikes is understood to be relatively small compared to US forces. In the first round of joint airstrikes, RAF jets struck two of sixteen targets, with multiple sites at each target.

A US defence official told The Telegraph: The US has participated in strikes against the Houthis, and has targeted infrastructure for striking US maritime forces.

Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, said: Dangerous Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have continued to threaten the lives of sailors and disrupt shipping at an intolerable cost to the global economy.

Along with our US partners, we have conducted a further round of strikes in self-defence. Aimed at degrading Houthi capabilities, this action will deal another blow to their limited stockpiles and ability to threaten global trade.

Alongside our ongoing diplomatic efforts, we will continue to support regional stability across the Middle East, working hand in hand with our like-minded partners.

Both the US and UK previously vowed that their militaries would continue to take military action against the group unless it ended attacks in one of the worlds busiest shipping lanes.

The incidents have seen the price of global shipping increase, as many carriers opt to send their cargo around the African continent, rather than using the strait to reach Europe from Asia.

The Houthis have said the attacks have been carried out in solidarity with Palestine over the war in Gaza, and that they would not stop in the face of a Western military response.

Earlier on Monday, Rishi Sunak spoke with Joe Biden to discuss the ongoing situation in the Middle East and Red Sea in particular.

Downing Street said the leaders condemned the surge in violent Houthi attacks on commercial ships transiting the area and undertook to continue efforts alongside international partners to deter and disrupt those attacks.

A spokesman added: This includes work through the multinational Operation Prosperity Guardian, putting diplomatic pressure on Iran to cease their support of Houthi activity and, as needed, targeted military action to degrade Houthi capabilities.

12:37 AM GMT

That's all for today

Thank you for following our live coverage.

12:21 AM GMT

Allies contributed to mission, says official

According to officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the military operation, Australia, Bahrain, Canada and the Netherlands contributed to the mission by assisting with intelligence and surveillance.

In a joint statement, the six allied nations said: Our aim remains to de-escalate tensions and restore stability in the Red Sea, but let us reiterate our warning to Houthi leadership: we will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the worlds most critical waterways in the face of continued threats.

One senior US military official told reporters the strikes dropped between 25 and 30 munitions and hit multiple targets in each location, adding that the US observed good impacts and effects at all sites, including the destruction of more advanced weapons in the underground storage facility.

The official said this is the first time such advanced weapons were targeted.

11:39 PM GMT

Strikes targeted underground storage site

In a joint statement with other countries that supported the military action, Washington and London said the strikes were against eight Huthi targets in Yemen in response to the Huthis continued attacks against international and commercial shipping as well as naval vessels transiting the Red Sea.

They specifically targeted a Huthi underground storage site and locations associated with the Huthis missile and air surveillance capabilities, the statement said.

These precision strikes are intended to disrupt and degrade the capabilities that the Huthis use to threaten global trade and the lives of innocent mariners, it said, adding that the rebel group had carried out a series of illegal, dangerous, and destabilising actions since the previous joint US-UK air raids.

11:05 PM GMT

Sir Keir did not receive briefing ahead of latest strikes

The latest operation could raise questions once again about the need to consult Parliament.

As well as holding a full Cabinet meeting before the strikes earlier this month, the Government also briefed Sir Keir Starmer, shadow defence secretary John Healey and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle about the operation.

But it is understood that Sir Keir did not receive a briefing ahead of the latest set of strikes.

Meanwhile, the Houthis media office also confirmed in an online statement that several American and UK raids targeted Yemens capital, Sanaa.

10:42 PM GMT

Multiple targets struck at two sites using guided bombs

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said four Four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s, supported by a pair of Voyager tankers, used Paveway IV precision guided bombs to strike multiple targets at two military sites in the vicinity of Sanaa airfield.

These locations were being used to enable the continued intolerable attacks against international shipping in the Red Sea, the statement read.

This follows our initial operation on 11 January, and subsequent US action, to degrade the Houthis capability to conduct such attacks.

In line with UK standard practice, a very rigorous analysis was applied in planning the strikes to minimise any risk of civilian casualties, and as with the previous strikes, our aircraft bombed at night to mitigate yet further any such risks.

Ministry of Defence of RAF Armourers preparing a Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4 - AS1 Leah Jones/MoD/Crown Copyright

A Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4 - AS1 Leah Jones/MoD/Crown Copyright

10:33 PM GMT

Grant Shapps: Strikes will 'deal another blow' to Houthi

Grant Shapps, the UKs Secretary of State for Defence, confirmed four Royal Air Force Typhoons launched a second round of precision strikes on Houthi military targets alongside the US.

In a statement on Twitter, Mr Shapps said the attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have continued to threaten the lives of sailors and disrupt shipping at an intolerable cost to the global economy.

We have conducted a further round of strikes in self-defence, he said. Aimed at degrading Houthi capabilities, this action will deal another blow to their limited stockpiles and ability to threaten global trade.

Tonight, four @RoyalAirForce Typhoons conducted a second round of precision strikes on Houthi military targets alongside US forces.



Read my statement below: pic.twitter.com/mBxS87psbm  Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) January 22, 2024

10:24 PM GMT

UK involvement relatively small compared to US

The UKs involvement in the strikes is understood to be relatively small compared to US forces. In the first round of joint airstrikes, RAF jets struck two of sixteen targets, with multiple sites at each target.

10:14 PM GMT

Concern over proxy war between US and Iran

The direct engagement between Western and Houthi forces has prompted concern about a proxy war between the US and Iran, which sponsors the group and supplies its weapons.

Vice Adm Brad Cooper, the head of the US Navys 5th Fleet in the Middle East, said on Monday that Iran was very directly involved in the attacks on the shipping lane, adding that they represented the worst threat to commercial shipping in 20 years.

Clearly, the Houthi actions, probably in terms of their attacks on merchant shipping, are the most significant that weve seen in two generations, he told the Associated Press.

The facts simply are that theyre attacking the international community; thus, the international response I think youve seen.

10:12 PM GMT

US has acted alone since first strikes

Since the initial joint operation, the US has acted alone in the region, carrying out several counter-attacks with air and seaborne missiles to prevent Houthi missiles from reaching shipping vessels.

The strikes used Typhoons from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus and an RAF air-to-air refuelling plane.

In recent days, the US launched seven rounds of airstrikes on Houthi military sites, targeting air bases under the rebels control and suspected missile launch sites.

Mr Biden has acknowledged that Western airstrikes have not prevented the attacks, but said they would continue. A US intelligence assessment of the first operation suggested the Houthis retained around 75 per cent of their ability to conduct attacks in the Red Sea.

Speaking after the first UK-US strikes, Mr Sunak said that the operation had been limited, not escalatory, but that that military coalition was prepared to strike the group again if the attacks did not stop, adding that the strikes were designed to degrade and disrupt Houthi military infrastructure.

10:04 PM GMT

UK and US launch new air strikes

The US and UK have launched new air strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The strikes were launched on Monday night against Houthi missile and drone launching sites in Yemen.

American fighter jets have repeatedly struck Houthi sites in Yemen over the past 10 days.

This is a breaking story and more will follow.

04:00 PM GMT

Pictured: A child looks on from a car as Palestinian families flee the city of Khan Younis on the coastal road leading to Rafah

A child looks on from a car as Palestinian families flee the city of Khan Younis on the coastal road leading to Rafah - Cover Images

03:58 PM GMT

UK imposes sanctions targeting Hamas financing

Britain has sanctioned individuals linked to Hamas, including financiers and leaders of the terror group, saying the measures would help cut off its funding including from Iran.

The move was taken in coordination with the United States.

The UK and US have announced more sanctions to disrupt Hamas financial networks.



There can be no sustainable ceasefire in Gaza with Hamas in power. https://t.co/PasgKaLXqI  David Cameron (@David_Cameron) January 22, 2024

The British sanctions target Zuheir Shamlakh, a man known as Hamass main money changer, and a key figure involved in the groups shift towards cryptocurrencies who helped transfer large sums of money from Iran to Hamas ahead of the groups Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, Britains foreign office said.

These sanctions send a clear message to Hamas  the UK and our partners are committed to ensuring there is no hiding place for those financing terrorist activities, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said.

03:09 PM GMT

Israel's plan to destroy Hamas 'not working', says top EU diplomat

Israels plan to destroy Hamas in Gaza is not working, the EUs top diplomat has said.

Josep Borrell, the EU foreign policy chief, insisted on a two-state solution as he told Israel it couldnt build peace only by military means.

He told reporters at the monthly gathering of EU foreign ministers: What are the other solutions they have in mind? To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill off them?...The way they are destroying Hamas is not the way to do it.

They are sealing the hate for generations.

Mr Borrell repeated the condemnation from the United Nations of Benjamin Netanyahus unacceptable rejection of calls for a Palestinian state to be formed after the war in Gaza.

What we want to do is to build a two-state solution. So lets talk about it, he said.

Israel has said the war could go on for many months and it would not rest until Hamas was eradicated, all Israeli hostages were freed and the Gaza Strip posed no more security threat.

02:49 PM GMT

Pictured: Smoke billowing over Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip

Smoke billowing over Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip - AFP

02:05 PM GMT

Germany temporarily waives residence permit requirement for Israelis

Israeli nationals residing in Germany can remain in the country until April 26 without having to apply for a residence permit or an extension to their visa-free stay following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, the German Interior Ministry said on Monday.

Israeli citizens can stay in Germany for 90 days without a visa. From Jan. 26 to April 26, they will now be exempt from the requirement for a residence permit to stay, the ministry added.

With our regulation, we are enabling Israeli citizens to stay in Germany for a further three months without having to apply for a residence permit. This is pragmatic and unbureaucratic help for people who we want to support in this difficult situation, said Interior Minister Nancy Faeser.

01:38 PM GMT

Water availability at a tenth of normal level in Gaza, says charity

Gaza update:



Water is becoming even harder to find - availability is now at a 10th of its normal level



Less than a quarter of aid deliveries have reached north Gaza since 1 Jan



@Unicef report nearly 20k babies born since 7 Oct  mothers struggle to find medical aid, food  Medical Aid for Palestinians (@MedicalAidPal) January 22, 2024

01:19 PM GMT

Pictured: Palestinian families fleeing the city on the coastal road leading to Rafah

Palestinian families fleeing the city on the coastal road leading to Rafah - AFP

01:03 PM GMT

We have an 'initiative' to get hostages back, Netanyahu says

Benjamin Netanyahu has told the families of hostages still in Gaza that his government has an initiative to secure the release of their loved ones.

Prime Minister Netanyahu met today with representatives of the hostages' families:



Contrary to what is said  there is no genuine proposal by Hamas, this is not true. I will say this as clearly as I can.



On the other hand, there is our initiative, which I will not detail. pic.twitter.com/dV7SCcfswc  Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 22, 2024

The Israeli prime minister, who told them that there is no real proposal by Hamas, said: In contrast, there is an initiative of ours, and I will not elaborate.

It comes after Mr Netanyahu said on Sunday he would make no deal that left Hamas unvanquished. I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas.

12:28 PM GMT

There is no real proposal by Hamas, says Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to push back against media speculation that a new Gaza truce was in the works, telling relatives of hostages held by Hamas that the group has not made any solid offer.

There is no real proposal by Hamas. Its not true. I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you, Mr Netanyahus office quoted him as saying.

12:23 PM GMT

US declares two Navy SEALs dead after raid on Iranian weapons bound for Houthis

Two US Navy SEALs who went missing during an operation to seize Iranian weapons bound for Yemens Houthi rebels have been declared dead after a 10-day search failed to locate them.

The pair were reported lost at sea after boarding the vessel in an operation near on January 11 on the coast of Somalia, the US militarys Central Command said.

That operation saw elite special operations personnel board a dhow carrying missile components made in Iran.

We regret to announce that after a 10-day exhaustive search, our two missing US Navy SEALs have not been located and their status has been changed to deceased, Centcom said in a statement on Sunday.

Read more here

11:25 AM GMT

Pictured: Palestinian families fleeing the city on the coastal road leading to Rafah

Palestinian families fleeing the city on the coastal road leading to Rafah - AFP

10:54 AM GMT

Relatives of Israeli hostages storm parliament committee meeting to demand action on captives

Dozens of family members of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza stormed into a Finance Committee meeting at Israels parliament on Monday, yelling you wont sit here while they are dying there!

On Sunday night, family members set up a protest tent in Jerusalem and vowed to stay there until the government reaches a deal to free some hostages.

The relatives of hostages have accelerated their protests in recent days, demanding the government do more to get their loved ones released.

10:30 AM GMT

Israeli tanks 'storm Khan Younis'

Israeli tanks storming southern Gazas main city reached the gates of two hospitals on Monday, cutting residents off from trauma care as the bloodiest fighting of the new year tore through areas sheltering hundreds of thousands of displaced.

Residents said bombardment from air, land and sea was the most intense in southern Gaza since the war began in October, as Israeli tanks surged across Khan Younis from the east into the western areas close to the Mediterranean coast.

Video images filmed from afar showed scattered civilians wandering a ghost city, crowded with tents with abandoned laundry flapping on lines, as gunfire rattled and columns of smoke rose into the sky.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said it had lost all contact with its staff at its Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis, main base for the rescue agency, where Israeli tanks were parked outside.

Further west, advancing Israeli tanks had reached the al-Mawasi district near the Mediterranean Coast for the first time, cutting off its Al-Khair hospital and stationing themselves around nearby Al-Aqsa university, heaving with thousands of displaced civilians.

At Nasser Hospital, the only major hospital still accessible in Khan Younis and the largest still functioning in Gaza, witnesses said the trauma ward was overwhelmed with wounded being treated on the floor and in hallways.

Health officials said least 20 dead bodies had arrived there overnight and they expected many more later, as tanks on the streets made it hard for rescuers to recover them.

09:52 AM GMT

'No excuse' for delays in getting aid into Gaza, Ireland to tell EU summit

Irelands deputy premier has said he will be telling a summit of EU foreign affairs leaders that there is no excuse for delays in getting aid into Gaza.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said the meeting will be an intensive session, with about six hours devoted to the Middle East and then dealing subsequently with the situation in Ukraine.

In the first instance we will be having a series of meetings with the Arab leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, and of course then meeting with the Israeli Foreign Minister and having a discussion in relation to the situation in the Middle East, he told reporters in Brussels.

From Irelands perspective, we will be again putting a lot of pressure on and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and also absolute, unimpeded access for humanitarian aid.

The reports we are receiving, even as late as last evening, are dire in respect of whats happening in Gaza, in terms of starvation, in terms of the humanitarian consequences of this war.

And there is no excuse now for any tardiness or for any delays in respect of getting vital aid into Gaza and well be making those points very strongly.

Mr Martin also called for the unconditional release of all hostages that are held by Hamas, equally unacceptable and intolerable.

09:17 AM GMT

Israeli plan to destroy Hamas 'not working,' says EU diplomat

Israels plan to destroy Hamas in Gaza is not working, the EUs top diplomat Josep Borrell has said.

Referring to Israels objective in its three-month-old war in Gaza, Mr Borrell told reporters: To say that destruction of Hamas is the aim is one-sided, because it means that it will be up to Israel to decide when they think (Hamas) has become weak enough. We cant go on working like this.

He said he wanted to press ahead with international efforts to create a process that would lead to a Palestinian state co-existing alongside Israel.

Israel has said the war could go on for many months and it would not rest until Hamas was eradicated, all Israeli hostages freed and the Gaza Strip posed no more security threat.

08:44 AM GMT

Pictured: Families of hostages protest outside Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem

Shai Benjamin, daughter of Ron Benjamin, an Israeli hostage held by Hamas, delivers statements to the media during a protest calling for the immediate release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza - ABIR SULTAN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock

A person holds a placard, as families of hostages and supporters protest to call for the immediate release of hostages - RONEN ZVULUN/REUTERS

08:40 AM GMT

EU must work towards two-state solution, says Germany

A two-state solution to allow for the peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians is the only solution to the current conflict, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Monday before heading into a EU foreign ministers meeting.

All those who say they dont want to hear about such a solution have not brought any alternative, she added, while also calling for an urgent humanitarian pause to the war raging in the Gaza strip.

The 27 EU ministers will first meet with Israels foreign minister Israel Katz, before sitting down separately with the Palestinian Authoritys top diplomat Riyad al-Maliki.

08:39 AM GMT

Top EU diplomat says Israel cannot build peace 'only by military means'

The EUs foreign policy chief has insisted on a two-state solution as he told Israel it couldnt build peace only by military means ahead of talks with Israeli and Palestinian top diplomats.

The blocs 27 foreign ministers are set to hold separate meetings with their counterparts from Israel, the Palestinian Authority and key Arab states in Brussels.

Josep Borrell repeated the condemnation from the United Nations of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus unacceptable rejection of calls for a Palestinian state after the war in Gaza.

What we want to do is to build a two-state solution. So lets talk about it, Mr Borrell said.

He told Israel that peace and stability cannot be built only by military means.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind? To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill off them? Mr Borrell said.

08:37 AM GMT

Dispatch: Inside the only place in Israel where Jews and Arabs choose to live together

This idyllic spot between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is the only village in Israel where Palestinians and Jews purposefully choose to live together. A sign at the entrance displays the communitys name in Arabic and Hebrew  Wahat al-Salam and Neve Shalom  meaning Oasis of Peace. When you come in here, you feel like youre in this peaceful bubble, said Adam Tali, 21, a Palestinian who lives here with his family. When you step outside, you obviously get hit by reality.` The Oct 7 Hamas attack in Israel  killing 1,200 people and taking 240 as hostages  shook the village of 300 residents to its core, as it did the entire nation.

Read more from Sophia Yan here

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BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Following the two elections in the Taiwan region in 2024, more countries and organizations have reiterated commitment to the one-China principle, expressing support for China's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Indonesia "consistently respects the one-China policy," said Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam said that his country sticks to the one-China principle and firmly opposes any remarks or acts for "Taiwan independence."

The Afghan interim government said in a statement that it is committed to the one-China principle and considers interference in China's internal affairs provocative and detrimental to regional peace and stability.

Both Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui said that the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affairs, and Algeria has always firmly adhered to the one-China principle. Stressing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, the Algerian leaders also expressed support for China to achieve national reunification, while rejecting any form of "Taiwan independence."

The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement reaffirmed its adherence to the one-China principle, and stressed that Taiwan is an integral part of the Chinese territory. Sudan supports the People's Republic of China in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, it added.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan said that South Sudan has always firmly adhered to the one-China principle and opposed any interference in China's internal affairs.

Togo firmly adheres to the one-China principle and supports the Chinese government's position on the Taiwan question, said Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey, adding that Togo fully supports China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ja'afaru Yakubu, chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, said in a statement that Nigeria opposes any separatist activity aimed at "Taiwan independence" and foreign interference in internal affairs, and it fully supports China's strive in achieving peaceful reunification.

Gabonese Minister of Foreign Affairs Regis Onanga Ndiaye reiterated in a statement Gabon's firm adherence to the one-China principle, saying the country opposes any words or actions that undermine China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The minister stressed Gabon's unwavering support for the Chinese government's efforts to achieve national reunification.

President of Cote d'Ivoire Alassane Ouattara reaffirmed the adherence to the one-China principle, saying that Cote d'Ivoire's position on the Taiwan question is clear: there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is part of China.

Guinea-Bissau's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that the country reaffirms its firm and unconditional support for the one-China principle, calls for full respect for China's sovereignty, non-interference in its internal affairs and full respect for its territorial integrity.

Zambia's Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Mulambo Haimbe reiterated Zambia's firm adherence to the one-China principle and recognized that 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 and Zambia firmly opposes "Taiwan independence," he said.

Timothy Musa Kabba, Sierra Leone's minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, said that Sierra Leone remains committed to the one-China policy. Sierra Leone will continue to enhance practical cooperation with China in various fields and safeguard their legitimate interests, he said.

Uzbekistan strongly advocates the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations and supports all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan.

Neven Pelicaric, adviser to the Croatian president for foreign and European policy, said Croatia has always firmly adhered to the one-China principle, and the elections in the Taiwan region are a matter for China.

Gyula Thurmer, leader of the Hungarian Workers' Party, said that respecting the one-China principle is essential for maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and is also one of the pillars of international peace and security.

The party condemns any form of recognition for "Taiwan independence," he said, adding that supporting Taiwan's separatist forces and official contact with the Taiwanese authorities represent blatant interference in the internal affairs of the People's Republic of China. Such acts threaten world peace, he added.

Brasil Acosta Pena, member of the Chamber of Deputies, the lower house of the Congress of the Union of Mexico, said that there is only one China, a fact that will not be changed in any way by the election results in Taiwan. He called on people to unite with China for the good of humanity.

Dennis Francis, president of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), reaffirmed that the UNGA will adhere to the one-China principle guided by the UNGA Resolution 2758.

Yemen, Mauritania, Armenia, Georgia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Samoa, Tonga and many other countries have also expressed firm support for the one-China principle by various means. 
By Bassam Masoud, Nidal al-Mughrabi and Dan Williams

GAZA/DOHA/JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli forces, advancing deep into western Khan Younis in Gaza's bloodiest fighting so far in January, stormed one hospital and put another under siege on Monday, cutting off the wounded from trauma care, Palestinian officials said.

Troops advanced for the first time into the al-Mawasi district near the Mediterranean Coast, west of Khan Younis, the main city in southern Gaza. There, they stormed the Al-Khair hospital and were arresting medical staff, Gaza health ministry spokesman Ashraf al Qidra told Reuters.

There was no word from Israel on the situation at the hospital, and the military spokesperson's office had no comment. The military said later that three Israeli soldiers were killed on Monday in southern Gaza.

Qidra said at least 50 people were killed overnight in Khan Younis, while the sieges of medical facilities meant dozens of dead and wounded were beyond the reach of rescuers.

"The Israeli occupation is preventing ambulance vehicles from moving to recover bodies of martyrs and the wounded from western Khan Younis," he said.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said tanks had surrounded another Khan Younis hospital, al-Amal, headquarters of the rescue agency, which had lost contact with staff there.

"We are deeply worried about what is happening around our hospital," said Tommaso Della Longa, spokesperson for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Israel says Hamas fighters operate in and around hospitals, which Hamas and medical staff deny.

Elad Goren of COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry branch that coordinates with the Palestinians, added that: "A particular effort led by a dedicated team has been put on making sure civilians have access to medical care."

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Monday said Israel had a right to defend itself but added: "We expect them to do so in accordance with international law and to protect innocent people in hospitals, medical staff and patients as well, as much as possible."

Residents said the bombardment from air, land and sea was the most intense in southern Gaza since the war began in October.

Video filmed from afar showed scattered civilians wandering around a ghost city crowded with tents, abandoned laundry flapping on lines as gunfire rattled and smoke rose into the sky.

Israel launched an offensive last week to capture Khan Younis, which it now says is the principal headquarters of the Hamas militants responsible for the Oct. 7 attacks on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies.

On Monday the Israeli Defense Forces said they had found weapons, explosives, rockets and a weapons facility and destroyed tunnel shafts and underground infrastructure in recent days in Khan Younis.

PENNED IN

The newest phase of the war has brought fighting deep into the last corners of the enclave packed with those fleeing bombardment. At least 25,295 Gazans have been killed since Oct. 7, Gaza health authorities said in an update on Monday.

Most of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are now penned into Rafah just south of Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah just north of it, crammed into public buildings and camps of tents made from plastic sheets lashed to wooden frames.

Lines of cars and donkey carts piled high with belongings pushed south as Gazans sought to flee the bombardments.

"This is the seventh time I get displaced," said Gazan Mariam Abu-Haleeb, weeping in a car surrounded by her possessions.

Ahmad Abu-Shaweesh, a boy, described sheltering in the Al-Aqsa University only to find it coming under attack.

"We hardly made it out... We didn't expect the tanks at the university's gates."

Gaza has had no communications or internet service for 10 days, hampering ambulance dispatches to areas targeted by Israel and preventing people from checking on one another and on the whereabouts of Israeli forces.

At Nasser Hospital, the only major hospital still accessible in Khan Younis and the largest still functioning in Gaza, video showed the trauma ward overwhelmed with wounded being treated on a floor splashed with blood.

Outside, men dug graves within the hospital grounds because it was not safe to venture out to the cemetery. Authorities said 40 people were buried there.

In Brussels, Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told reporters the situation in Gaza was out of control and asked the European Union to call for a ceasefire.

"The health system has collapsed. There is no way for injured Palestinians to be treated in the Gaza strip and they are not able to leave Gaza for treatment outside."

Israel says it wants to annihilate Hamas. But Palestinians and some Western military experts say that may be unachievable given the group's diffuse structure and deep roots in Gaza, which it has ruled since 2007.

Though Israelis overwhelmingly support the war, a growing number say the government should do more to reach a deal to free Israeli hostages, even if that means reining in its offensive.

About 20 relatives of hostages stormed a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem on Monday, demanding lawmakers do more to help free their loved ones.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a group of relatives there was no truth to reports of a deal to free hostages in a ceasefire.

Sami al-Zuhri, head of Hamas' political unit in exile, told Reuters Hamas was open to "all initiatives and proposals, but any agreement must be based on ending the aggression and the occupation's complete withdrawal" from Gaza.

At a press conference in Beirut, Hamas official Osama Hamdan echoed calls for a complete ceasefire and stressed Hamas, which has long vowed to destroy Israel, would not accept anything other than "a fully sovereign Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital".

His comments come after Netanyahu at the weekend rejected the creation of a future independent Palestinian state, opening a rift with Israel's U.S. ally, which said again on Monday that it believes a two-state solution is still possible.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Doha and Bassam Masoud in Gaza, Emma Farge in Geneva; writing by Peter Graff and Sharon Singleton; editing by Mark Heinrich and Hugh Lawson)
By Dan Williams

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - After conquering a Hamas tunnel in the northern Gaza Strip, a group of Israeli soldiers went down it with some unusual kit in hand - not explosives, robot probes or pistols for close combat, but rather: old-style, dial-operated transistor radios.

Their mission was to descend until the devices could no longer receive AM transmissions from Israel. That point, they found, was at about 10 to 12 metres depth, generally the upper "storeys" of Palestinian militants' subterranean network.

The Jan 4 experiment was ordered by their commander at the behest of Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi, who had just expanded the country's most popular broadcaster, Army Radio, from industry-standard FM into complementary AM channels.

AM's greater range meant emergency updates would have a better chance of being heard by civilians in bomb shelters. Troops in Gaza would also benefit, as they were being allowed transistor radios to keep themselves informed while being asked to surrender their cellphones lest those be geolocated by Hamas.

The tunnel experiment dangled another possibility for a country tormented with worry for 132 people held hostage by Hamas-led gunmen in the enclave: reaching out to them with custom-composed, morale-raising Army Radio broadcasts.

"It suddenly occurred to me that maybe some of those hostages also had access to transistor radios," Karhi told Reuters. "If they had the means to hear their families' voices it would have a huge value in terms of morale - and for their relatives, too."

The gambit would likely need Hamas' cooperation, a prospect its initiators hope is within the bounds of possibility.

Hamas officials in Gaza were not immediately available for comment on the idea - a testament to Palestinians' shattered infrastructure under an Israeli offensive, as well as their reluctance to release information on the hostages' conditions.

ACCESS TO TVS, RADIOS

Of scores of hostages freed in a November truce, several said captors had allowed them limited access to TVs or radios.

One of them learned from the radio that her husband and daughter, from whom she had been separated during the Oct. 7 cross-border Hamas killing and kidnapping spree that sparked the war, had survived. For another, an Israeli broadcast was the first notification that two relatives were among the dead.

But the accounts often left unclear whether the hostages were kept just under the surface, or in tunnels well out of range, or in above-ground safe houses with regular reception. Tunnels shown to journalists by advancing Israeli forces have sometimes included upper levels of about 10 metres depth.

Asked to respond to the Army Radio initiative, ex-hostage Nili Margalit said part of her captivity was spent 40 metres underground. "It is too deep," she told Reuters, declining to discuss the matter further for fear "that the terrorists will use my words to hurt the captives that are still there".

Dan O'Shea, a former Navy SEAL and hostage coordinator for U.S. forces in Iraq, said that while he "completely agrees" with the AM-radio initiative he saw scant chance of Hamas cooperating while Israel pursues search-and-rescue operations in Gaza.

"If Hamas knew that these radios could be picked up by Israeli forces, it's the last thing they would want," he said. "They're paranoid about anything that's going to track an IDF bomb to their position."

Peter Duffett-Smith, emeritus reader in astrophysics at the University of Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory, said AM transistor radios, which are designed to passively receive broadcasts, cannot easily be traced. But he did not rule it out.

Most such radios use oscillators which emit faint signals, he said, "and it is possible that (these) could be detected at a distance using specialised equipment. These signals decrease rapidly with distance, especially through ground."

Asked whether Israel could mount such location operations, Army Radio director Danny Zaken said: "We cannot. It (a broadcast received by the radio) is not coming back. I mean, it's not like sonar ... It's only one-way, unfortunately."

STAVING OFF DESPAIR

Karhi said he knew of neither Israel nor Hamas being able to track passive AM reception - hence the permission for troops in Gaza to use transistor radios.

Staving off despair or rebelliousness among the hostages might prompt captors to consider taking a risk on the radios.

But Ruth Pat-Horenczyk, a clinical psychology professor with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, said if Hamas felt it would weaken its control of captives it would prevent them listening.

Army Radio's shift into AM is backed by the Defence Ministry's National Emergency Management Authority and Israel's largest telecom group, Bezeq. The station has been pre-recording messages by hostage families for airing several times a day.

"They're telling them: 'Stay strong. We are fighting for you. Don't worry. We'll get to you. Stay strong," Zaken said.

At a Tel Aviv rally to mark the first birthday of Kfir Bibas, the youngest of the hostages, an Army Radio reporter approached one of the baby's relatives, Yosi Shnaider, to explain the station's new reach and ask to record an interview.

He agreed: "If they are hearing us ... We want to tell you that the families love you, that no one has forgotten you."

(Additional reporting by Cecile Mantovani; Writing by Dan Williams, Editing by William Maclean)
Russian air defense systems in Leningrad Oblasts are not likely designed to protect the region against attacks from the south, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote in its Jan. 21 report.

The terminal of Russia's Novatek natural gas company caught fire in the port of Ust-Luga in Leningrad Oblast near St Petersburg overnight on Jan. 21. The strike was the result of a planned operation by the Security Service of Ukraine, according to an unnamed source in the agency cited by Ukrainska Pravda.

The ISW said that air defense systems in Leningrad Oblast may not be well-equipped to counter attacks from Ukraine, because they were not designed with southern attacks in mind.

"Russia has historically arrayed its air defense in the area to defend against hypothetical NATO attacks," analysts wrote.

Russian forces are now building up a "Leningrad military district" along the border with Finland in order to intimidate NATO members and possibly prepare for a future war with NATO. Continued Ukrainian strikes on Russian military assets in the region may force Russia to change its tactics.

"Ukrainian strikes in Leningrad Oblast may prompt Russian forces to reposition short-range air defense systems along expected flight routes of Ukrainian drones to defend potential targets of strategic value," the ISW said.

Yurii Ihnat, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force, said on Jan. 20 that Russian air defense systems were sufficient to protect targets near the front lines and in occupied Crimea, but not those on Russian soil.

"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 said.

The overnight strike on Novatek was part of a coordinated attack against military targets on Russian soil, including infrastructure in Russia's Tula, Smolensk, and Oryol oblasts. Reports of strikes against rear areas in Russia have increased in recent weeks, though Kyiv rarely gives official comment on these attacks.

According to the ISW, if Ukraine continues to target deep rear areas within Russia, it may "increase pressure on Russias air defenses overall."

Read also: Ukraines air defense notches a string of successes against Russian air power

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Japans first lunar lander has officially powered down on the moon after its solar cells were unable to generate electricity, though the nations space agency said there is a possibility of turning things around when the direction of the suns rays change.

Japan made history last week when its lander, Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM), successfully touched down on the moons surface last week. Shortly after landing, directors of the mission explained that while the soft landing was a minimal success, the spacecrafts solar cells were not generating power.

An update, posted yesterday on X, appears to confirm that the solar cell anomaly is related to an attitude, or pointing, issue with the spacecraft, as opposed to some electrical or mechanical issue with the solar cells themselves.

According to the telemetry data, SLIMs solar cells are facing west, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) said in the update. So if sunlight begins to shine on the lunar surface from the west, there is a possibility of generating power, and we are preparing for recovery. SLIM can operate with power only from the solar cells.

In the meantime, JAXA said that the battery was disconnected at a 12% power level, as planned, to avoid over-discharge.

Japan can count a handful of other major wins in the mission, even if the solar cells never manage to charge up sufficiently for a recovery operation. The agency obtained a lot of data from the landing descent and on the lunar surface, officials said; in addition, the two rovers that were aboard the lander were successfully deployed on the surface.

The agency has yet to announce why the spacecraft did not land pointing in the right direction, but JAXA officials are preparing an additional update on the status of the spacecraft at the end of the week.

Although the attitude after landing did not go as planned, we are glad we could [sic] achieve so much and are happy to have landed successfully, the agency said. Were also excited to analyze the data.
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency said it hopes its SLIM moon lander, which lost power shortly after its historic arrival on the moon can be recharged by sunlight from the west. Photo by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency/EPA-EFE/

Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Japanese space officials said on Monday that they hope the lunar lander that arrived on the moon's surface on Friday will regain power once the sun hits the spacecraft's solar cells from the west.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, said the solar cells of its Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, or SLIM, are facing the west, according to its telemetry data. Theoretically, the solar cells should power up when the sun rises from the west, Japanese space officials said.

"There is a possibility of generating power and we are preparing for recover, SLIM can operate with power only from the solar cells, JAXA said.

The lander successfully made its soft landing on the moon Friday, but it currently remains shut down because of its lack of energy.

JAXA said on Friday that SLIM was still sending a signal, which is allowing them to diagnose the power issues with it. Officials said they are preparing for when the spacecraft does come back online.

"We're currently conducting a detailed analysis and are relieved to see that we obtained a lot of data," the agency said.

SLIM's onboard battery can run its spacecraft's functions for only a few hours without solar power.

"After landing ... power from the solar cells could not be confirmed," JAXA said. "At a battery level of 12%, the battery disconnected (as planned) to avoid being unable to restart for are recovery operation due to over-discharge."

Despite the challenges, Japan still made history as the only the fifth country to make a soft landing on the moon. They join the United States, Russia, China and India.

The agency said it hopes the mission can be a step that leads to future endeavors allowing it to move away from "landing where we can" and begin instead "landing where we want."
BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Governments, political parties and international organizations around the world have recently issued statements and communiques, expressing their firm adherence to the one-China principle.

As its consistent position, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) respects and supports the one-China principle, said ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, noting that the above position has been expressed by ASEAN many times before.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia noted that "Malaysia has always, and will continue, to adhere to the 'one-China Policy' that has been the basis of this strong and mutually-beneficial partnership."

The Arab Parliament reiterated its position on supporting the one-China principle, and its opposition to the so-called "Taiwan independence" and interference in the internal affairs of China.

Stressing that the one-China principle is well-established in the foreign policy of the Arab side, the parliament said it has always firmly adhered to this position.

Backing China's legitimate rights to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, the parliament noted that the recent elections that took place in the Taiwan region will not affect the Arab side's adherence to the one-China principle.

Beninese Foreign Minister Shegun Adjadi Bakari said that the Beninese government always adheres to the one-China principle, supports the principle of non-interference in internal affairs and firmly supports China's efforts to safeguard regional peace and stability.

Malawian Foreign Minister Nancy Tembo said that the Malawian government reiterates its adherence to the one-China principle and opposes interference in China's internal affairs.

Cote d'Ivoire's position on the Taiwan question is clear and definite: there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is part of China, said President of Cote d'Ivoire Alassane Ouattara, noting that Cote d'Ivoire would continue to abide by the one-China principle.

Fernando Miguel, director of the Office of the Ministry of External Relations of Angola, said that the one-China principle is the cornerstone of China-Angola relations.

Angola firmly upholds the one-China principle, opposes all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, opposes external interference in China's internal affairs, and supports the just cause of the Chinese people for national reunification, he said.

Stressing that the Taiwan regional election outside the framework of "one country, two systems" is not in the interests of all Chinese people, and that the Democratic Progressive Party is a separatist party endangering global stability and the future of Taiwan, Eswatini's largest opposition party, the People's United Democratic Movement, condemned the Eswatini government for maintaining so-called "diplomatic relations" with a Chinese province, and appreciates the right choice of the Nauru government to "sever diplomatic relations" with the Taiwan authorities.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said that the Irish government has always adhered to the one-China principle and hoped that China could realize peaceful reunification at an early date.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Barbados Kerrie Symmonds said that since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, the Barbados side has always adhered to the one-China principle universally recognized by the international community, which means there is only one China in the world.

Barbados only recognizes and maintains diplomatic relations with the government of the People's Republic of China, and Taiwan is part of China, Symmonds said.

The Barbados government firmly adheres to the one-China principle and believes that China will eventually be reunified, Symmonds stressed.

Yeidckol Polevnsky, president of the Mexico-China Friendship Group of the Mexican Chamber of Deputies, member of the Chamber of Deputies, and former general secretary of the ruling National Regeneration Movement party of Mexico, said that there is only one China in the world, and the one-China principle has been confirmed by the United Nations and supported by the overwhelming majority of countries.

Taiwan is not a country, and it is an integral part of China's territory, Polevnsky said.

Cyprus, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada and other countries, as well as the Bolivia-China Friendship Association, have also expressed their continued adherence to the one-China principle by various means. 
The night before Jeffrey Epstein flew from Paris back to New York in July 2019, he called his younger brother, Mark. The pair had been in contact only occasionally since their mother died 15 years earlier and it was the last time they ever spoke.

Mark Epstein says his brother had no inkling he was going to be arrested as he stepped off his jet at Teterboro in New Jersey. He believed he had been granted immunity from federal prosecution under a 2007 plea deal reached with the then US attorney Alex Acosta when he pleaded guilty to state charges of soliciting a minor.

Barely a month later, Jeffrey Epstein was found dead in a Manhattan jail cell. He had killed himself despite being under psychological observation at the time after a suicide attempt.

It was a sorry end to the quest for justice for Epsteins victims but far from an end to the mystery, drama and intrigue that surrounds Epsteins story  and the powerful figures who wined and dined and partied with him across the world. That drama would continue through the trial and conviction of his confidante Ghislaine Maxwell and even through the release this month of thousands of once sealed court documents about the case.

But still the mystery remains. Not least  for Mark Epstein anyway  the manner of his brothers death.

Mark Epstein doesnt accept the justice department report that found jail officials guilty of negligence, misconduct and outright job performance failures, but it said it found no evidence that his death was anything but suicide.

I would like a full investigation of his death. If you look at all the evidence, including the autopsy, the photographs of his body, the bullshit DOJ report that is filled with inaccuracies, you would never come up with the conclusion that this was a suicide  but based on what? he said.

The sexual, political and financial corruption at the heart of the Epstein story has left a trail of ruined lives and reputations. About $150m has been paid out from Epsteins $580m estate to the victims, often underage, of the sex trafficking conspiracy Epstein orchestrated with Maxwell, now serving 20 years in a Florida prison.

But the release of long-sealed documents from a 2017 defamation suit brought by Virginia Giuffre against Maxwell served to further damage the reputations of Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew and a host of other men whose names appeared in the records.

The documents also stoked yet more fresh interest in Epsteins life, and theories that the circumstances of his death were covered up.

Epstein was not on suicide watch and was alone in his cell. Two correctional officers responsible for guarding Epstein that day were later charged with falsifying prison records. The charges were dropped soon after Maxwell was convicted in 2021.

Mark Epstein says he thinks another prisoner on the tier could have gotten into his brothers cell and killed him, and that hes been told that not all the cell doors were locked that night. But cellmates who might have had a view of Epsteins cell door said they did not see anyone go in, according to the DOJ report. A camera pointing at Epsteins cell door was not recording that night.

Days after Epsteins death, the then US attorney general, Bill Barr, criticized serious irregularities at this facility that are deeply concerning and demand a thorough investigation and vowed to get to the bottom of what happened. There will be accountability.

Barr told the Associated Press in November, 2019: I can understand people who immediately, whose minds went to sort of the worst-case scenario because it was a perfect storm of screw-ups.

But Mark Epstein is not satisfied and still believes in the conspiracy theory: The question is, who had him killed?

Related: A-list names in Jeffrey Epstein documents cache but what prospect of charges?

A former artist turned property developer, Mark Epstein says he was investigated by the FBI after his brothers death. The source of his wealth has been described by the Wall Street Journal as mysterious, but he told the Guardian he was not a trustee of his brothers estate nor a beneficiary of his will.

Yet he had been linked to his brother financially through a 200-unit Manhattan condominium, once donated an 80-foot yacht to the Marine Science and Nautical Training Academy in South Carolina and offered to put up his brothers bail against a Florida condominium valued at a $100,000.

The Jeffrey Epstein story is full of rabbit holes, and a virtual industry has grown up inviting amateur sleuths to go down them. When Judge Loretta Preska cleared out her court files earlier this month, the names held within made headlines for days and claims of secretly recorded sex tapes ensured that the Epstein scandal will rumble on.

But the files didnt advance central questions around Jeffrey Epstein  namely how he made his fortune, questions that his brother says he cant discuss.

Mark Epstein says that other than calling for a new investigation into his brothers death  a request that he says has not received a response  hes nonchalant about being the brother of a man at the center of scandal.

Other than having to deal with death threats, the FBI and NYPD and needing security early on, my life is normal, he says. They looked into me but they realized I was clean and there was no dirt on me.

The Jeffrey Epstein story is for now on a break from the headlines. Mark Epstein claims he didnt look at the recent documents and maintains hes not planning to continue to raise questions. Im only concerned about the circumstances of my brothers death, he says.
A Georgia judge on Monday unsealed the divorce case involving a special prosecutor at the center of allegations concerning an improper relationship with the Fulton county district attorney who brought the racketeering case against Donald Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

The judge also stayed the deposition of the Fulton county district attorney Fani Willis in the divorce, until the special prosecutor Nathan Wade  whom she hired for the high-profile Trump case  had first testified about his relationship and financial conditions himself.

Related: Fani Willis had travel paid for by special prosecutor in Trump case, filing shows

Trumps co-defendant and 2020 campaign elections day operations chief, Michael Roman, has put forward a motion seeking to have the district attorneys office disqualified from bringing the case because the alleged relationship between Willis and Wade was a conflict of interest.

The judge vacated the consent order sealing the divorce proceeding because no court hearing had been held at the time to shield the records. Roman and a coalition of media organizations, including the Guardian, had separately filed to unseal the case.

The allegations made by Roman threaten to undercut one of the most complex and high-profile criminal cases against Trump that could go to trial before the 2024 election. Trump, who won the Iowa caucuses last week with a 30-point margin, is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination.

Trump and his allies, including Roman, were charged last year with violating the Georgia racketeering statute over their efforts to reverse the outcome of the 2020 election in the state, including by advancing fake Trump slates of electors and pressuring state officials to toss vote totals.

The complaint about the relationship inside the district attorneys office surfaced in January after Roman sought the dismissal of Willis, alleging that she personally profited from hiring Wade because he billed at least $653,000 in fees and used that money to pay for vacations together.

The reasoning from Roman, as it goes, suggests that even though Wade could spend his earnings as he liked, it was a conflict of interest when the money was being used to benefit Willis.

Romans filing included no concrete proof that Willis personally benefited from hiring Wade. Romans lawyer Ashleigh Merchant, a respected local attorney who once endorsed Wade to be a judge in 2016, said the claims were based on sources and records from Wades divorce proceeding.

But in a court filing submitted by Joycelyn Mayfield Wade in the divorce case last week, Wades bank records attached as exhibits showed that he had paid for at least two trips to Miami, Florida, and to Napa Valley, California, with Willis as the listed travel companion.

The first trip, dated 4 October 2022, showed Wade paid for flights from Atlanta to Miami for himself and for Willis. Separately, on the same date and without names listed, Wade made two purchases with Royal Caribbean Cruises, for $1,248 and $1,387.

The second trip, dated 25 April 2023, showed Wade paid for flights from Atlanta to San Francisco for himself and for Willis. On 14 May 2023, Wade made two purchases, for $612 and $228, at a Doubletree hotel in Napa Valley.

Willis has not directly addressed the allegations. A spokesperson has said the district attorneys office would speak through its court filings.

The allegations are scheduled to be addressed next month after the Fulton county superior court judge Scott McAfee, who is presiding in the Trump case, set an evidentiary hearing for 15 February. The date comes two weeks after the judge in the divorce case holds a hearing on whether to unseal.



Wade started divorce proceedings the day after he was hired as a special prosecutor on the Trump case. The divorce turned contentious last year, after Joycelyn Mayfield Wade complained that her husband had failed to disclose his finances, including income from working on the Trump case.



The complaint resulted in Wade being held in contempt by the Cobb county superior court judge and, in January, Willis herself was subpoenaed for information relating to Wades work.

The subpoena ordered Willis to sit for a taped deposition on 23 January. At the hearing on Monday, the judge also stayed the subpoena until after Wade himself had been deposed by his wife about his financial situation.



Willis accused Wades wife of conspiring with interested parties in the criminal election interference case to use the civil discovery process to annoy, embarrass and oppress District Attorney Willis in a motion to quash, and sought a protective order to avoid the deposition.
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris speaks on the one year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs decision in North Carolina in June. Harris said Monday in Wisconsin that its immoral for a woman to be told by the government what to do with her body. File Photo by Erik S. Lesser/UPI

Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off a "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" nationwide tour Monday in Waukesha County, Wis., on the 51st anniversary of the Supreme Court's ruling on Roe v. Wade.

Coming during election season, the trip also marks Harris' fifth visit to Wisconsin -- a state President Joe Biden won in 2020 -- and highlights how the state is expected to again play a pivotal role in national politics.

Harris -- the first woman to be vice president -- spoke on the effect of Roe v. Wade's overturning by the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson ruling in 2022. She was joined by Wisconsin's Sen. Tammy Baldwin, U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore and Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez.

"In America, freedom is not to be given, it not to be bestowed," she said in a speech that lasted nearly a half hour. Freedom "is ours by right," which includes the freedom to "make decisions about one's own body, not the government telling you what to do," Harris told the crowd.

The Supreme Court's original 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling "recognized the fundamental, constitutional right to reproductive freedom" and that American citizens relied on freedoms previously protected under Roe v. Wade who "now speak of it in past tense."

Harris said it's "immoral" for a woman to be told by the government what to do with their body after getting impregnated by rape and denounced state efforts across the country to limit a woman's access to abortion-related healthcare, calling the matter a "healthcare crisis" and adding that it is not a hypothetical crisis.

"One does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree that the government should not be telling [a woman] what to do with her body," the vice president said.

Harris cited real-world examples of recent cases in which an abortion was medically needed but said "extremists want to roll back the clock" and "extremists evoked a law from 1849 to stop abortion in Wisconsin."

She said despite the courage that is being shown by women who are coming out to tell their stories, "the reality of what's happening in real time across our country is that for every story we hear, there are so many we don't hear about."

Harris blamed former President Donald Trump -- the likely 2024 Republican presidential nominee -- for intentionally choosing three Supreme Court justices who "intended for them to take your freedom, and it's a decision he brags about."

She warned the crowd that ongoing efforts are being made in Congress to pass a national abortion ban, and that Biden has committed to veto such a ban.

The administration will "protect the most fundamental freedoms" of women, Harris said.

Her Wisconsin trip came on the same day that an abortion rights task force was meeting with the president at the White House.

She also said abortion rights are issues favored by U.S. voters.

"Momentum is on our side. We are winning. Every time reproductive freedom has been on the ballot, they have voted for freedom," Harris stated.
When Johnson County last June considered property tax incentives for a proposed $95 million manufacturing facility, officials encountered unexpectedly intense opposition.

Why is Johnson County funding China? This is incredibly concerning, said Debbie Detmer, a far-right regular at county meetings. She was among a handful of residents who voiced objections to the project last summer over fears the company has ties to the Chinese government.

County commissioners approved the incentives anyway and the company, Cnano Technology, moved forward with developing a 333,000-square-foot facility in the business park of Johnson Countys New Century AirCenter.

But more than half a year later, the opposition of a few local residents has grown into a nascent movement among Kansas Republicans to block the plant, potentially imperiling a project expected to generate more than 100 jobs.

U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Republican, touched off a new round of concern earlier this month when he released a letter calling on the Committee for Foreign Investment in the United States  a federal panel  to investigate whether Cnano has ties to the Chinese Community Party.

LaTurner, whose district does not include the proposed facility, has also urged state officials to block the company. Whether the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature takes up the issue may determine Cnanos future in the state.

There are serious allegations regarding the leaders of Cnano participating in state-sponsored theft of intellectual property and data. This is an issue that requires coordination on both the federal and state level, House Majority Leader Chris Croft, an Overland Park Republican, said in a statement.

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobachs chief deputy attorney general, Dan Burrows, said the office was looking into what actions could be taken against the company. In a letter to the Johnson County Commission on Friday, Kobach, a Republican, urged the county to withdraw its incentives.

It appears that the pursuit of economic growth has been placed above national security, Kobach wrote.

Kansas lawmakers were already mulling legislation that would block foreign ownership of farmland, and House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, has emphasized the importance of combating Chinas communist government. LaTurners call for action will likely intensify those discussions.

LaTurner has spoken of Cnanos proven and significant ties to the Chinese Community Party. The allegations trace back to reporting by the Daily Caller, a conservative news outlet, in a partnership with the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank that has urged the Republican Party to take a more aggressive stand on China.

Cnano  its full name is Cnano Technology USA Inc.  is a wholly-owned subsidiary of C-Nano Technology Co., Ltd., which in turn is owned by Chinese-based Cnano Jiangsu, according to the Daily Caller. Cnano Jiangsu employs Chinese Community Party members, the publication reported.

Cnano specializes in making carbon nanotubes and graphene, which are used in electric car batteries. The proposed Johnson County investment came after Panasonic announced plans to create a $40 billion electric battery plant in De Soto.

The Star did not receive a reply from the only email address listed on the companys website. Members of the project development team, with VanTrust in Kansas City and CBRE, did not return The Stars requests for comment.

Were proud to bring cutting-edge technology, investment dollars and, most importantly, jobs to the region, Shawn Montgomery, president of Cnano Technology USA, Inc., said in an August news release.

The U.S. Department of Treasury, which houses the Committee for Foreign Investment in the United States, declined to comment on LaTurners letter. The committee typically provides an annual report to Congress, but its prohibited from publicly disclosing information supplied to the committee and does not confirm nor deny when its investigating a company.

Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat and the only Chinese-American Kansas lawmaker, said concerns surrounding Cnano are part of a trend hes watched for years.

Its just fear mongering around the CCP because apparently its a popular campaign issue for them. But, its just falling upon Asians and then usually, after that, Asian Americans as well, Xu said.

Xu said any foreign land ownership policy needed to be narrowly tailored and warned against expanding into commercial and residential lands.

Rep. Rui Xu, left, a Democrat from Westwood.

Johnson County commissioners in June approved a 10-year, 75% property tax abatement for Cnanos facility, which is expected to employ about 120 workers manufacturing battery additives, according to county documents. Prior to the development, the land was owned by the county and tax exempt.

The Johnson County Airport Commission previously approved the ground lease for the building developed by VanTrust Real Estate, with rental revenues to be used to retire the debt for area infrastructure improvements and support the operational needs of the airport. Bryan Johnson, the executive director of the Airport Commission, declined to comment, deferring questions to the county.

Johnson County Commission Chairman Mike Kelly has warned that the county should be wary of the rhetoric surrounding the project, saying it is a welcoming community and supportive of development from both national and international companies.

Theres examples from the past and present that tell us the pattern of invoking China as a threat has dangerous consequences for Americans of Asian descent and perpetuating long-standing stereotypes of Chinese and other Asian communities as foreign or dangerous or unscrupulous, Kelly said during a commission meeting.

Kelly said in a statement to the Star on Friday that the Cnano building will soon be outfitted with equipment and that bonds for the project had been sold. He said Cnano will be subject to the protocols, codes, laws and regulations established by the county, state and federal government, and noted that doing business with global entities brings opportunities to the region.

Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte OHara, a conservative, opposed the tax break for Cnano. She said she has concerns about the company.

Unfortunately, I think our due diligence is really lacking when we have these properties that come in for tax abatements, OHara said.

Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte OHara

We dont know

Republican efforts to restrict foreign ownership of land in Kansas have until now mostly focused on blocking ownership of agricultural land, though available data indicates Chinese nationals and companies own a miniscule fraction of Kansas farmland. Kobach this fall proposed blocking individuals and entities connected to foreign governments from owning more than 10 acres unless a state council gives it permission.

Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican, said he believed legislation blocking foreign land ownership should be composed in a way that prevents Cnano from owning land in Kansas. He said theres no such thing as a private company in China.

We dont know what kind of operations theyre doing, Thompson said. We dont know whether theyre spying or not but we have to assume that they are.

Rep. Ken Rahjes, an Agra Republican who chairs the House Agriculture Committee, was more cautious. Calling himself a capitalist, Rahjes said he thinks everybody can make an opportunity for themselves.

Still, he said verification is important.

Same thing with China, theyre a trading partner with us, Rahjes said. We need them, they need us but that doesnt mean we just give them carte blanche.

Asked whether Democratic Gov. Laura Kellys administration had concerns about Cnano or CCP influence in Kansas more broadly, Patrick Lowry, a spokesman for the Kansas Department of Commerce, said the agency did not provide any support for this company coming to Kansas.

Restricting a private company from investing in the state would require action from the legislature, Lowry added in an email.

The Kansas House chamber.

Concern in Washington

The growing controversy over Cnano in Kansas comes as lawmakers in Washington have increasingly attempted to appear tough on China, seeing it as a global threat to the United States.

There have been several efforts to block Chinese countries from acquiring land, including a bill filed by U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican. The bill was not considered in the Democratic-controlled U.S. Senate.

Hawley is one of the most vocal opponents of China in Congress and has argued for decreasing the amount the U.S. is spending to support Ukraine in support of putting more resources in Asia to counter China. He has also pushed for a ban on TikTok, a Chinese-owned social media app that officials say collects data about Americans.

Other lawmakers  like U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican  have tried to ban several countries from investing in, purchasing or leasing U.S. farmland. His bill, supported by some Democrats, would prevent China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from owning land.

Maria Holiday, chair of the Johnson County GOP, applauded Johnson County residents for speaking in opposition of Cnano since last summer. More residents showed up to this past weeks commission meeting, echoing LaTurners concerns. But she said their fears have fallen on deaf ears.

But Cole Robinson, executive director of the Johnson County Democratic Party and a Prairie Village councilman, said hes not surprised by the Republican messaging on China, especially in a presidential election year. He expressed concern that opposition to Cnanos project could give other companies pause as they consider locating in Johnson County.

I dont think its great that someone looking at the growth in Kansas has to also run a calculus about whether or not theyre going to run into this type of overly nationalist, protectionist, isolationist rhetoric, Robinson said.

The Stars Daniel Desrochers contributed to this report.
Weve got to start complementing our incredible design capacity with incredible building and manufacturing capabilities again. ~ Dan Goldin, 9th NASA Administrator

If you look at the four biggest employers in Kentucky, two of them are automakers, Ford and Toyota, and two of them are logistics, UPS and Amazon. ~ Jason Bailey, Executive Director of the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy.

In the heart of the Bluegrass State, Space Tango is emblematic of a transformative journey, where economic growth, technological innovation, and talent expansion converge. Kentucky has a higher percentage of personnel employed in manufacturing than most of the United States, particularly in the automotive supply chain. The logistics industry is also a large and growing employer, driven in part by the explosion of e-commerce. Success in the automotive and logistics industries have shaped Kentuckys growth, and Kentuckys talent has played a pivotal role in return.

Kentuckys historical incentives aligned around manufacturing have yielded many best practices  from project cost efficiency to effective testing and failure tolerance development for transportation platforms. Glass packaging production company O-I Glasss recent expansion, creating 140 jobs for Kentuckians, will be the first purpose-built facility of its kind to use the new technology known as Modular Advanced Glass Manufacturing Asset (MAGMA), to increase speed-to-market and efficiency in the manufacturing process. The Warren County operation will include renewable electricity, gas-oxy fuel and other innovative technology and processes.

Manufacturers have driven innovation and workforce expansion in Kentuckys economy for years, with $24.40 billion in manufactured goods exports in 2020 creating much needed roles drawing on Kentuckys talent. Small businesses comprised 79.00% percent of all exporters in Kentucky. The Kentucky workforce has shaped the key success factors in manufacturing and industry for decades, and Space Tango is taking those principles to the stars.

Space Tango provides automated solutions for data and manufacturing capabilities in microgravity.

Coupled with now 262 payloads of flight heritage and scientific analysis on the International Space Station, we guide customers through designing, integrating, and operating their payloads in space. Our mission is to create transformational solutions with our current technology as a blueprint, identifying manufacturing applications on the International Space Station, commercial space stations, and beyond.

Economic growth and space economy

In the dynamic landscape of the space sector, where an astounding US $272 billion in private equity investments flowed in 2022 alone, Kentuckys strategic decision to diversify its economic portfolio is a timely move. Morgan Stanleys assessment that the global space industry could generate revenue of more than $1 trillion or more in 2040 has appropriately attracted the attention of technologists and investors worldwide. However, to translate the hypothetical into the real, local economic initiatives are a must.

To serve as a catalyst for this economic growth, Kentuckys Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small BusinessTechnology Transfer (STTR) Matching Funds program is recognized as one of the most successful in the region. It uniquely matches both phases of federal SBIR-STTR awards dollar-for-dollar, providing significant financial support for high-tech businesses at the earlier stage of technology readiness. This program has already benefited Kentuckys emerging space sector.

State programs have also fostered the formation of biotechnology research clusters. Owensboro, home to Kentucky BioProcessing, leads in plant-based gene expression technologies for pharmaceutical compounds. The Owensboro Biotech Alliance, involving local farmers, emphasizes the integration of agriculture, higher education, and the life science industry, showcasing Kentuckys commitment to biotechnology-driven economic growth.

Finally, the Kentucky New Energy Venture Fund (KNEV) was launched to support the development and commercialization of alternative fuel and renewable energy products. KNEV goals include growing companies in the alternative fuel and renewable energy sector, stimulating private investment, and establishing an industrial knowledge base.

Emerging trends like space data services and in-space manufacturing open avenues for the states skilled workforce, comprising engineers, scientists, and technicians, to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the space industry, alongside parallel growth in biotech and renewable energy. Kentucky is ideally suited to catlayze this growth through its rich ecosystem of economic programs, manufacturing best practices, and the most critical success factor in any industry: talent.

Workforce Development

The recognized shortage of skilled workers in the aerospace industry is a pressing concern. Kentuckys commitment to proactive programming in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education must continue to create pathways for all educational levels into the space industry. As part of the states STEM initiatives, the Commonwealth of Kentucky has created high school engineering pathways to excite and drive interest in top Engineering fields; special attention is also paid to Aerospace Engineering as this is Kentuckys top export and only second to Washington State in export dollars.

Space Tango continues to support collaborations among industry stakeholders and educational institutions to enable tailored curricula to address industry gaps, ensuring a well-prepared workforce.

As technology evolves, so does the demand for expertise in areas like materials, artificial intelligence, and automation. Addressing commercial market demands and establishing space-based supply chain methodologies require disruptive approaches that the state of Kentuckys manufacturing history is well positioned to shape.

Threading the demands of commercial aerospace with the existing prominence of a manufacturing workforce, Kentuckys economic odyssey in space is already underway, fueled by the convergence of public and private initiatives, technological advancements, and partnerships between industry and educational institutions to tailor curricula to address gaps.

As we navigate this transformative journey, Kentuckys commitment to innovation, workforce development, and biotechnology positions itself as a frontrunner in the evolving space economy.

The stars are not just above; they are within reach.

S. Sita Sonty, CEO of Space Tango

S. Sita Sonty, CEO of Space Tango, is a trusted leader in aerospace, having previously held key roles in the space industry including Head of Human Spaceflight Sales at SpaceX, Vice President at Sierra Nevada Corporation, and a distinguished diplomatic career spanning over seventeen years.
As one of the sponsors of a 2020 Louisville ordinance banning source of income housing discrimination, Ive watched in disbelief this week as members of the Kentucky General Assembly have repeatedly misstated what the law does. In efforts to void that law and keep Lexington from passing a similar ordinance, they have stated that it prevents landlords from appropriately screening tenants, requires them to rent at unprofitable rates and forces them to rent to anyone with a federal housing voucher. Every one of those claims is completely false, as is the claim that source of income discrimination bans are some new, crazy idea.

Louisville banned discrimination based solely on the source of someones income

Because Louisville veterans, people with disabilities and families have housing benefits that are difficult or impossible to use when landlords say, your moneys no good here, Louisville joined many states and local jurisdictions in banning discrimination based solely on the source of someones income. Similar bans across the country have long helped to get people into housing and combat the racial and economic segregation which occurs when housing benefits can only be used in some parts of a city.

The ordinance wasnt a new idea. State and local laws prohibiting housing discrimination against individuals based on income sources such as Social Security, disability benefits and housing vouchers that veterans and families use to pay part of their rent began to appear in the 1970s.

Legislation was prompted by the case of Jill Williams, an honorably discharged homeless veteran who estimated she was turned down 20 times by landlords who didnt accept federal benefits, before renting an apartment in a less desirable neighborhood because she was about to lose her time-limited voucher. In her own words, I was good enough to serve my country, but not good enough to live in your neighborhood. In 2017, the American Bar Association encouraged every government to pass such bans.

The Lone Oak Meadows housing complex on S. Park Road in Louisville, Ky. on May. 28, 2023. The development is one of several that offer affordable housing around the city.

Housing discrimination laws were once bipartisan

Laws banning the sort of discrimination Ms. Williams faced were not traditionally viewed as partisan issues. Conservative states such as North Dakota enacted a law in 1983 and Utah passed a ban in 1993. Conservative Republican Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) was a champion of the laws, noting in 2018 that they put an end to the immoral housing discrimination against veterans and others who rely on veterans benefits, Social Security Disability or other non-wage legal incomethereby helping to remove an unnecessary barrier facing Utah families and veterans on the path to self-reliance.

Cincinnati has had such a law since 1980 and is now joined by 18 other Ohio communities. Across the country, some 20 states and 100 cities and counties ban source of income discrimination, with the laws now estimated to cover more than 57% of federal Housing Choice (Section 8) (HCV) voucher holders.

Louisville joined those ranks in 2020, after Metro Council voted 24-0, in bipartisan fashion. The ordinance was approved after discussions with the Louisville Apartment Association, which has also been involved in efforts to educate its members on what the law doesand doesnt do. The association and fair housing lawyers jointly issued a document with the following outline concerning vouchers. It directly  and correctly refutes many of the statements recently made in Frankfort.

A landlord or property manager may not refuse to rent to a tenant just because the tenant is an HCV holder. To avoid unlawful discrimination against HCV holders, landlords and property managers should not:

Advertise that they are not renting to HCV or Section 8 tenants. It is illegal to discriminate against a potential lessee based on his or her source of income.

Refuse to process a prospective renters application because he or she has a voucher.

Treat voucher holders less favorably than other potential tenants by inflating rents or screening such applicants more stringently.

Blame Metro Council for housing crisis: Louisville needs affordable apartments, too.

The ordinance does not require landlords or property managers to rent to a tenant just because he or she is an HCV holder. Landlords and property managers should:

Screen voucher holders as they would any other prospective tenant, using the same, neutral criteria

Of course, neutral criteria can include ability to pay security deposits and the same rent landlords regularly charge to all tenants. No landlord is required to change those criteria or their properties because of Louisvilles source of income ordinance, and repeated assertions to the contrary in Frankfort are simply false.

Housing is a human right, and every community should do all it can to get people into housing. Louisville took a step in that direction in 2020 when it joined many states and cities across the country banning discrimination based solely on the source of someones income. Preempting an enacted ordinance passed in unanimous, bipartisan fashion to address a critical local need is an extraordinary and unnecessary act. The ordinance is working in Louisville and Frankfort should let it continue to work.

What are your thoughts? Submit your letter to the editor here.

Bill Hollander

Bill Hollander served on Louisvilles Metro Council from 2015-2022.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Source of income bans are needed. The Kentucky Legislature is wrong.
Donald Tusk, the new Polish prime minister who is facing an opposition at home that is trying to handicap his new administration, pledged his country's support for Ukraine in his inaugural visit to Kiev.

Despite Poland's domestic issues, Tusk said in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that his country backs Ukraine.

"Poland will continue to do everything in its power to increase Ukraine's chances of winning this war," Tusk said.

Poland, which borders Ukraine, has taken in more Ukrainian refugees than any other country. Zelensky said he was grateful for this.

"The Polish people, the Polish state is one of our biggest supporters," Zelensky said.

"In Eastern Europe, we can only preserve freedom if we defend it together," he said.

Tusk, a former EU Council president, promised that Poland would support Ukraine's bid to join the European Union in all aspects. One of the aims of his visit to Kiev was to discuss how more Western support for Ukraine could be mobilized. Poland is also a NATO member.

Few details of their meeting were reported. Zelensky said that further military support and joint weapons production had been discussed.

Tusk spoke in general terms about "equipment and devices" for Ukraine. Talks on the conclusion of a security agreement were also planned.

But there are contentious issues between the two nations, who were both part of the Soviet bloc in the Cold War days.

Polish farmers fear the import of cheap grain from Ukraine. Tusk's government, in office since December, has maintained import restrictions.

Polish lorry drivers recently blocked border crossings for weeks out of anger at what they see as unfair Ukrainian competition.

Tusk and Zelensky spoke about their trade problems and agreed they would work together to solve the issues so no international mediators are needed.

Tusk, at a press conference, said the two sides developed a mutual understanding of the situation and reaffirmed that the best option is "to solve problems together."

Ministers from both sides took part in the talks. Tusk did not provide any details on possible solutions. Zelensky explained that Ukraine was not only defending its own independence, but that of the whole of Europe, including Poland.

"Solidarity with Ukraine should not be undermined by any obstacles," Zelensky wrote on Facebook.

Earlier in the day Ukraine's military said its forces had completely repelled an overnight Russian drone attack.

All eight Iranian-designed Shahed kamikaze drones were intercepted after being launched from the Russian coast of the Sea of Azov, the Ukrainian Air Force said.

The drones were shot down over the southern Ukrainian regions of Mykolaiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk and Kirovohrad.

At the turn of the year, the Russian armed forces fiercely bombarded Ukraine using a combination of various types of missiles and drones.

In mid-January, however, a Russian A-50 early warning reconnaissance aircraft and an Il-22M flying command centre were shot down.

This appears to have dealt a short-term blow to Russia, as the aircraft are needed by Moscow to wage heavy aerial attacks. Since then, there have been no combined missile and drone attacks on Ukraine.

In Russia, a fire at a gas terminal near St Petersburg that the Russian government said was caused by a Ukrainian drone was extinguished after burning for more than a day, the head of the area's district administration said on Monday.

A drone attack on the port of Ust-Luga on the Baltic Sea caused a fire at a terminal belonging to the major Russian natural gas producer Novatek, the Russian officials said on Sunday.

There is still no official information on the extent of the damage.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (R) and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (L) hold a meeting at the Mariinskyi Palace. -/Ukraine Presidency/dpa

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (R) and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (L) shakes hands ahead of a meeting at the Mariinskyi Palace. -/Ukraine Presidency/dpa
HARARE, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Trade between China and Zimbabwe hit a record high of 3.12 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, reflecting a 29.9 percent increase from the previous year, the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe said Monday.

"Zimbabwe exported 1.71 billion dollars to China and imported 1.41 billion dollars from China, resulting in a trade surplus of 307 million dollars for Zimbabwe," the embassy posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Trade between China and Zimbabwe has experienced positive growth in recent years, primarily driven by minerals and tobacco exports to China.

Last year, Zimbabwe's agricultural exports to China received a significant boost when the southern African country marked its first citrus exports to China, diversifying and expanding its agricultural exports to the Asian country. 
A lawsuit filed Monday in Jefferson County on behalf of victims and survivors of the Old National Bank mass shooting in Louisville names River City Firearms.

The gun store sold the AR-15-style rifle used in the shooting, which left five dead and several injured.

A Louisville Metro Police Department investigation, released in November, included receipts from the sale of the gun.

What is River City Firearms?

River City Firearms is a federally licensed firearms dealer in Louisville, Kentucky. The gun shop sells guns, accessories and ammunition.

Where is it located?

River City Firearms is located at 2915 Preston Highway. However, a Jan. 19 post on the gun shop's Facebook page says they will be moving, but it doesn't say when or where.

Who owns it?

Derrick Meyers incorporated the shop in 2015. The store is still owned by Meyers, according to Kentucky Secretary of State records.

Meyers is also listed in Secretary of State records as the registering agent for River City Firearms of Mount Washington, as of October 2023.

Why is River City Firearms in the news?

On April 4, 2023, River City Firearms sold an AR-15 assault rifle, along with accessories, that was used in the April 10 mass shooting at Old National Bank, in which five people were killed and eight more were injured, including two responding police officers.

The lawsuit alleges River City Firearms overlooked several "red flags" when selling the gun used in the shooting.

What does River City Firearms say?

The Courier Journal called and emailed River City Firearms regarding its response to the lawsuit filing. The business did not respond.

Has the ATF inspected River City Firearms?

The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms's last publicly available inspection of River City Firearms was in 2017. That inspection shows River City Firearms had nine violations that resulted in a warning letter from the ATF. The ATF's administrative remedies for violations in order of severity include a warning letter, a warning conference or license revocation/non-renewal.

The violations included failing to obtain accurate transaction information and failing to comply with reporting requirements.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: River City Firearms named in lawsuit over Old National Bank shootings
Former Lieutenant Governor Joins Broadstreet As Advisor

Broadstreet Inc., a Greenville-based private equity firm, has announced the addition of former Lieutenant Governor and State of South Carolina legislator, Andre Bauer, as senior advisor.

Bauer

Bauer will assist Broadstreet in expanding its presence in the Carolinas, including helping to develop, plan and expand large real estate projects that Broadstreet is pursuing.

We are thrilled to welcome Andre to the Broadstreet team, said Joseph Baldassarra, President of Broadstreet. As we expand our investment portfolio, his insights and expertise will be instrumental in driving our success.

A native South Carolinian, Bauer served as lieutenant governor from 2003 to 2011. He presided over the S.C. Senate. Bauer was also a state senator for District 18 from 1999 to 2003 and was a state representative for District 87 from 1996 to 1999.

He traveled to more than 30 countries and met with leaders worldwide to promote business and trade in South Carolina. He also served as a CNN political correspondent.

Im excited to join Broadstreet, Bauer said. I look forward to working with the great team they have assembled to source impactful deals and provide counsel that drives Broadstreets continued growth.

Bauer founded Bunk Aviation LLC, a company specializing in restoring historic Charleston homes while preserving their original integrity.

Broadstreet has achieved approximately $3 billion in transactions. More than 600 people are employed in the businesses in which Broadstreet is the lead equity provider. Broadstreet is also the equity provider for more than 40 projects with an anticipated 30,000 home sites in North and South Carolina.

Countybank Appoints Officers

Patrice Freeman and John Moore have been appointed as Banking Officers by the Countybank Board of Directors.

Freeman

Freeman, Customer Relations Manager, joined Countybank in 2018 and is responsible for opening and managing deposit accounts and providing retail lending assistance. She is active in the Greenwood community, representing the bank at financial literacy and career-related events.

Patrice plays a vital role in the daily operations of Countybanks Calhoun financial center, said Danielle Fields, Financial Center Manager for Countybank.

Moore, Customer Relations Manager, joined Countybank in 2010 and also is responsible for opening and managing deposit accounts and providing retail lending assistance. He has worked in deposit operations, trust, and retail banking.

Moore

Moore serves on the Cambridge Academy Board of Directors and contributes to the financial literacy program for high school students. He is a Leadership Greenwood graduate.

John is a well-known face of the company, said Erin Baker, Financial Center Manager for Countybank. We appreciate his commitment to our communitys residents and businesses.

Founded in 1933, Countybank has locations in Greenwood, Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer and Anderson.

Carolina Handling To Partner With Department Of Defense

Carolina Handling has been authorized by the U.S. Department of Defense as a SkillBridge organization to provide job training for military service members transitioning to the civilian workforce.

Last year, Carolina Handling was named a veteran-friendly employer by the S.C. Department of Veterans Affairs.

SkillBridge allows active-duty service members and some members of the National Guard and Reserves the opportunity to gain civilian work experience through job training, skills training, apprenticeships and internships.

In turn, industry partners have access to a highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost.

Being a DOD SkillBridge partner is an exciting step for Carolina Handling and our recruiting team, said corporate recruiter Catie Beth Bishop. Hiring continues to be a challenge, especially for field service technicians, she said.

SkillBridge is a cost-effective talent acquisition pipeline that provides access to individuals with technical skills and strong teamwork and leadership experience.

Service members participating in SkillBridge continue to receive military compensation and benefits, allowing employers time to evaluate an individuals suitability for employment. Service members can be granted up to 180 days to focus solely on training full-time with industry partners.

Almost 13 percent of Carolina Handlings 770 associates served or serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. In November, Carolina Handling was named a veteran-friendly employer by the S.C. Department of Veterans Affairs. Last year, the company also became a participant in Recruit Military, a national platform that connects employers and veterans.

Founded in 1966, Carolina Handling is the exclusive Raymond Solutions and Support Center for North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida. The company provides lift trucks and automation solutions for manufacturers, warehouses and distribution centers, along with parts, racking, storage, lighting, and dock and door equipment.

Carolina Handling has headquarters in Charlotte with branch offices in Atlanta, Birmingham, Greensboro, Raleigh, Greenville, and an equipment distribution center in Piedmont.

Habitat Greenville Launches CEO Build, Panel Discussion

A panel discussion focusing on the challenges of affordable housing will kick off the 2024 Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County CEO Build.

For the past 12 years, the CEO Build has recruited influential local business leaders to lend their skills to build safe, energy-efficient, and affordable homes for families in the community, creating positive change, one house at a time.

Each of the participating CEOs pledges company funding and volunteer staff hours to help build the houses. They also work on-site with their team members, community volunteers, and future Habitat families.

The kick-off discussion will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 24 at City Club of Greenville, 55 Beattie Place at One Liberty Square in downtown Greenville. People interested in taking part in the CEO Build should contact Noel Brooks, noel@habitatgreenville.org, to attend.

The panel will include John Castile, Executive Director of the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority, Peter Rumsey, Director of Operations for Habitat International, and Tina Belge, Policy and Advocacy Director of the Greenville Housing Fund.

This is one of the best team-building opportunities in Greenville. You will have direct involvement in changing the future for a Greenville family, said Monroe Free, President and CEO of Habitat Greenville. You will experience a sense of pride and accomplishment in seeing the finished home you and your colleagues built.

Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County opened its doors in 1985 to bring families, community partners, and volunteers together to construct homes that help families build strength, stability, and self-reliance. As of last May, Habitat Greenville had completed 405 homes.

Publix Donates $100,000 To Habitat Greenville County

Publix Super Market Charities continued its support of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County recently with a check for $100,000.

Publix Super Market Charities presents a check to Habitat for Humanity.

The funds will support the Habitat Greenville Womens Build, an annual event that attracts more than 150 volunteers. It began in 2006. Most of the participants are from female-led families and companies. The program helps women learn construction skills and helps a woman-led family attain a home.

The check was presented at the site of the 2023 Womens Build in the Nicholtown Community of Greenville.

We are grateful to Publix Super Market Charities for their continued support, said Monroe Free, President and CEO of Habitat Greenville. Their generous grant toward Habitat Greenvilles Womens Build in the Nicholtown neighborhood is making this home a reality. Together we continue to transform lives.

Habitat Laurens To Rock The Block

Cypress Street in the Lydia Mills neighborhood in Clinton will be transformed this month, led by Habitat for Humanity of Laurens County.

Habitat Laurens will sponsor Rock The Block, where homeowners, volunteers and community partners will create high-energy neighborhood revitalization and home preservation in one day, said Ben Barron, Director of Operations for Habitat Laurens.

Under the guidance of Habitat staff, volunteers will complete tasks such as power washing, gutter cleaning, yard cleanup, mulching, and minor exterior home repairs, Barron said.

Volunteers ages 14 to 17 are welcome with the signature of a guardian.

Rock The Block will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 27 along Cypress Street in Clinton.

Presbyterian College, Rotary Club of Clinton, Sadler Hughes Apothecary, Refuge of Worship and the City of Clinton are partners.

Homeowners who want their homes added to Rock The Block, as well as volunteers, can reach out to Barron at ben@habitatgreenville.org or (864) 200-4561.

Habitat for Humanity of Laurens County brings together families, community partners, and volunteers to construct affordable, energy-efficient homes and do home repairs in the community.

In 2023, Habitat Laurens became part of Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County.

Spinx Opens Off White Horse Road

The Spinx Co., the Greenville-based fuel and convenience retail company with more than 80 locations and 50 car washes across the Carolinas, opened its newest store recently at White Horse Road and Highway 123 in Greenville.

A new Spinx opened at White Horse Road and Highway 123.

The brand-new store will provide fuel and convenient amenities.

"We look forward to bringing top-notch service, quality products, and a convenient shopping experience to nearby residents and travelers," said Steve Spinks, CEO and President of The Spinx Co.

Spinx #297 will serve fried chicken, chicken biscuits, chicken tenders, fountain drinks, and hot beverages, including bean-to-cup coffee. The company was founded in 1972.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: In The Know: News, updates from Greenville area businesses and nonprofits
The shootings that claimed three lives Saturday in Palm Bay was the deadliest homicide case in Brevard County since last March, when sheriff's investigators say a father shot and killed his 15-year-old daughter, her mother and two others in a Canaveral Groves home.

A suspect, Tashawn Clive Taylor, 26, was arrested, but Palm Bay police have not yet discussed a potential motive in the case. The shooting deaths bring the number of reported homicides in Brevard this year to four.

Palm Bay police were on the scene Sunday at Woodlake Village, where three people were killed and three wounded at an apartment in the complex.

What happened: Palm Bay police were called about 9 p.m. Saturday to Woodlake Village Apartments' sprawling complex off of Palm Bay Road to respond to a disturbance call. Officers went into an apartment in the 2700 block and found five people shot, including three fatally wounded by the gunfire, in two of the rooms. Officers then searched for the suspected gunman, who lived in the apartment with family members. A black Lexus  believed to be connected to the shooting  was located and placed atop a tow truck being taken from another complex less than two miles away in south Melbourne. It is not known if a gun was recovered.

The victims: Palm Bay police identified the shooting victims, some of whom were family members of the suspected shooter, as 60-year-old Angella Suglam, 79-year-old Stephen Suglam and 31-year-old Lisa Suglam. Two other people were found with gunshot wounds: a 15-year-old in critical condition, and Gary Taylor, 59, whose injuries were non-life-threatening. Police did not identify the gender of the wounded teenager or their connection to the suspected shooter. Officers were seen escorting at least two ambulances from the complex.

Shootings in Palm Bay: How many mass shootings have happened in Florida so far in 2024?

The suspect: Tashawn Clive Taylor, a 26-year-old Palm Bay resident, whose address is listed as being in the building where the shooting was reported. He was initially charged with three counts of first-degree murder, court records show. He was being held Sunday without bail in the Brevard County Jail Complex. It is not known who owned the weapon used or how it was obtained.

Palm Bay police were on the scene Sunday at Woodlake Village, where three people were shot dead and two wounded at an apartment in the complex.

The motive: Palm Bay police detectives did not speak publicly about potential motives for the shootings but were looking into everything from mental health issues to domestic problems. Detectives were continuing to talk with witnesses in the case, including the survivors and others believed to be in the apartment when the gunfire broke out. Sunday, family members, including the sister of one of the women killed, gathered outside of the apartment complex, saying they did not know why the shootings took place.

More: Three dead, two wounded in Palm Bay shooting; suspect charged, held

What comes next: Taylor was arrested late Saturday and booked into the Brevard County Jail Complex on a no bond status. He will go before a county judge on Monday for a short, first appearance hearing on the case and will given information on the charges that Palm Bay Police have filed. He will likely be remanded to the county jail and will be given a court date. Autopsies on the victims will be conducted this week to determine the exact cause of death for each person fatally shot.

J.D. Gallop is a criminal justice/breaking news reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or jgallop@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @JDGallop.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Palm Bay triple homicide: Here's what we know about shooter, victims
(Bloomberg) -- Nikki Haleys New Hampshire ambitions depend on high turnout among undeclared voters and former Democrats, strengthening her argument that she can grow the Republican party and win the presidency in November, according to a political strategist supporting her campaign.

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For Haley, she obviously needs big turnout, Greg Moore, a senior advisor for Americans for Prosperity Action  the super political action committee supporting Haley, told Bloomberg News in an interview in Manchester, New Hampshire on Sunday.

Moore, who is running the New Hampshire operation for the super PAC, which is backed by billionaire Charles Koch of Koch Industries Inc., said the states presidential primaries have much higher turnout than the Iowa caucuses, which GOP frontrunner Donald Trump won in a landslide last week.

What that means is that you have an electorate that is much more representative of the general electorate as a consequence, he said. Her ability to pull from that in a purple state demonstrates the strength that she has in a general election.

Moore projects a record-smashing turnout of more than 330,000 voters on Tuesday. There were only 267,768 registered Republicans in New Hampshire as of Friday. Undeclared voters would make up the gap.

He predicted more undeclared voters would opt for a Republican ballot citing the lack of a competitive Democratic primary, where President Joe Biden is a write-in candidate and does not face a serious challenger from his party.

Thats like 40% of the registered voters are going to come out and vote in a Republican primary. And thats just a bonkers number if you think about it, Moore said. Thats the sort of thing that makes New Hampshire different. The thing about that group is that they tend to be very swingy and they tend to decide late.

Former President Trump is already questioning the legitimacy of Haleys strength in the state, falsely claiming that Democrats can vote in the Republican primary. While an undeclared voter can choose either partys ballot in a primary, Democrats would have had to renounce their party affiliation by Oct. 7 in order to participate.

Haley, Trumps former UN ambassador, has emerged as his biggest competitor, in particular after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race Sunday. She still trails the former president by 15 percentage points, according to a RealClearPolitics average of polls.

Read more: Koch Machine Pushes Its Case for Nikki Haley, Door by Door

Moore said AFP would continue to support Haley in South Carolina on Feb. 24 and is already softening the ground in Super Tuesday states on March 5 that will collectively decide 36% of the delegates to the Republican National Convention.

AFP has spent more than $3 million on canvassing in New Hampshire and $9.6 million on advertising in early-voting states. The group says it has a total advertising budget of $26 million in addition to its grassroots organizing operation.

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Amid a slew of recent legal troubles, Kodak Black will remain in federal custody  at least for the next month. If released, his attorney says hes headed to rehab.

The South Florida rapper, whose legal name is Bill Kapri, has been held in a Miami federal detention center since December after violating his probation on a gun-buying conviction dating back more than four years.

On Monday, U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez abstained from ruling on whether the 26-year-old artist should continue to be detained on the probation violation. He granted more time for the rappers defense lawyer to resolve pending cases in Broward and the prosecutor to subpoena witnesses to testify at the next hearing.

Back in December, Federal Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Becerra left the final decision up to Martinez when declined to release Kodak so that he could attend a drug treatment facility in Arizona. Becerra said the rapper was a danger to the community.

READ MORE: Kodak Black wont be home for Christmas. Judge says he is a danger to the community

Kodak is accused of violating his federal probation after Plantation police say they found the rapper asleep in a Bentley with drugs on him in early December. The rapper was charged with oxycodone possession, evidence tampering and improperly stopping, standing or parking.

Rapper Kodak Black during the third period of Game 1 of a first round NHL Stanley Cup series between the Florida Panthers against the Washington Capitals at FLA Live Arena on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 in Sunrise, Fl.

The probation violation stems from a 2019 case in which Kodak pleaded guilty to lying on a background check form when he purchased handguns at a Hialeah weapons store, federal court records show. He was sentenced to 46 months in prison, though it was commuted by former President Donald Trump in January 2021, shortly before he left office.

The rapper, however, was placed on probation for three years, with the period ending in January.

READ MORE: Kodak Black is back behind bars after Broward drug arrest. This time, in Miami

At the time of his December arrest, Kodak was out on bond in connection to Broward drug possession and trafficking charges. In 2022, Kodak was pulled over in his purple Dodge Durango by Florida Highway Patrol. State troopers say they found 31 oxycodone tablets inside the car.

Kodak ready to seek treatment?

Defense attorney Brad Cohen, who has represented Kodak in several cases, urged Martinez to release the rapper with time served. He said Kodak has indicated, in several conversations, that hes ready to accept help from his support system.

No one in this courtroom wants to get [Kodak] help more than I do, Cohen said.

Kodaks pending cases, the attorney said, arent violations because the rapper has a legal prescription for oxycodone. He indicated that he plans to resolve the Broward cases in the coming weeks.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, December 8, 2023 - Rapper NLE Choppa, whose real name is Bryson Potts, center, shakes hands with his attorney, Brad Cohen, right, as he talks to a co-defendant in the case, left, before Judge Barbara Duffy in courtroom 6900 at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Giving him jail isnt going to get him help, Cohen said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce Brown opposed releasing the rapper and rehashed the police narrative of Kodaks recent arrest. He said he plans to call witnesses at the hearing scheduled for Feb. 21.

We need to stop telling [Kodak] these arent violations, Brown said.

While Martinez didnt make a decision Monday, he subtly noted throughout the hearing that he was hesitant to release the rapper.

I am more concerned about [Kodak] than I am about him being in jail, Martinez said.

If Kodak is let go from the detention center, he may end up behind bars in Broward. Circuit Court Judge Barbara Duffy in January ruled that Kodak be jailed whenever hes released from federal custody.

READ MORE: Kodak Black is behind bars in Miami. If hes released, a Broward judge wants him in jail

Last February, Duffy ordered the rapper to stay at a rehabilitation facility for 30 days after an hours-long hearing.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, December 8, 2023 - Judge Barbara Duffy talks to defendants, including Bryson Potts, also known as NLE Choppa about a change of plea in a 2021 Broward drug and gun case this morning at the Broward County Courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

All the good deeds I do, all the good things I do, it never goes as viral, Kodak said at the time. I dont know why [they] are so hungry to see me in jail.
Paul Flores, shown in court in 2022, was convicted in the death of Kristin Smart, shown in 2006. (Los Angeles Times)

More than 27 years after Cal Poly San Luis Obispo student Kristin Smart disappeared, her family is suing the university, alleging that its police force ignored multiple reports of suspicious behavior by the Cal Poly student who would prove to be her killer.

Paul Flores, who was the last person seen with the 19-year-old Smart after a Memorial Day weekend party in 1996, was convicted in October 2022 of murdering her. But her body has never been found.

There is no question that Cal Poly failed our daughter, Kristin Smart, in multiple ways before and after her tragic murder by Paul Flores," the Smart family said in a statement Monday. "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."

Smarts parents, Stan and Denise Smart, her brother, Matthew Smart, and her sister, Lindsey Stewart, asserted in the Superior Court complaint that they did not fully comprehend the university's failure until its president issued an apology in May. Their lawsuit, filed Thursday, alleges negligence, wrongful death and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

The suit also alleges that the mistakes made by university police allowed Flores to rape other women in the years after. The family is seeking unspecified damages.

Cal Polys breaches of its legal duty include but are not limited to the following: It did not pursue a missing person case promptly, did not interview witnesses timely, did not seal the primary suspects dorm room as a crime scene, allowed the suspects room to be sanitized and cleaned before it was searched, and did not search the suspects room until sixteen days after Kristin disappeared, lawyers for the family alleged in the lawsuit.

The university's police force did not thoroughly investigate in the early stages, dismissing her disappearance and ignoring reports it possessed about Flores' "threatening, stalking, and harassing behavior," the lawsuit asserts. Kristin Smart was last seen walking toward her dormitory with Flores on May 25, 1996.

If Cal Poly had properly acted on those reports, conducted an investigation, and appropriately disciplined [Flores], he would not have been on campus, and therefore would not have been able to murder Kristin, the lawsuit alleged.

Smart's disappearance and the murder investigation have haunted the Central Coast college community for decades, with billboards appealing for evidence to convict her killer. She was legally declared dead in 2002.

Two of her friends contacted the universitys police the day after she disappeared. But officers declined to take a report and told her friends they wanted to wait until the Memorial Day weekend was over, according to the lawsuit. They told Smart's mother that Kristin probably went camping, despite her mother's insistence that it wasn't like Kristin to do so, the lawsuit states.

Read more: Kristin Smart case: Images from the investigation and arrest of Paul Flores

In May, Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong publicly stated: "We are very sorry for what the Smart family has endured. What they have been through is unimaginably heartbreaking, and I feel for them in ways I can't express with words. 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."

The university has declined to comment on the lawsuit, saying it does not discuss ongoing litigation.

The lawsuit alleges that Cal Poly's police force had the following reports about Flores in its possession before Smart disappeared:





In December 1995, a female Cal Poly student filed a university police report alleging Flores had been harassing her, including climbing the trellis of the students apartment building to spy on her from her balcony. Cal Poly police apprehended Flores at the location and identified him as the culprit, the lawsuit alleges.

In January 1996, Flores was reported for vandalizing Cal Poly grounds and property while intoxicated. That same month, he was required to attend a Mediation/Information Meeting because he had allegedly harassed a staff member at the university, according to the lawsuit.

In March 1996, three female Cal Poly students filed reports to university police accusing Flores of harassment and stalking. According to the lawsuit, Flores repeatedly telephoned them for six weeks and filled their answering machine with silent hang-up calls. They, too, alleged that Flores had climbed on their balcony and tried to break into their apartment in December 1995, according to the lawsuit.

In addition, the lawsuit alleges that in December 1994, Flores was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery, and Cal Poly's police department had access to the California Law Enforcement Systems database that includes those records.

After becoming aware of five reports of Flores harassing, stalking, and violent behavior, any reasonable university would have engaged in a disciplinary process related to Flores, according to the lawsuit. "A reasonable university would have expelled, or at least suspended, Flores.

The Smarts' lawsuit said Cal Polys failures allowed Paul Flores to sexually assault and hurt multiple women during the 25 years leading up to his April 13, 2021, arrest. Two of those women testified they were drugged and sexually assaulted in Los Angeles County in 2008 and 2011, respectively.

Robert Sanger, Paul Flores' defense attorney, concludes his case during closing arguments in Flores' murder trial on Oct. 5, 2022, in Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas. (Laura Dickinson / San Luis Obispo Tribune)

In their cases, the prosecutor noted Flores had offered to give the women rides home after meeting them, only to drug and repeatedly rape them at his house.

Flores is serving 25 years in prison. Last year, a group of scientists revealed data that they say showed indications of human remains in the soil of his mother's property.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has instructed the government to develop a plan for preserving the national identity of Ukrainians in Russia who live in the "historically inhabited lands" in what are now the Krasnodar Krai, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov oblasts of the Russian Federation.

Source: Decree of the President of Ukraine "On the Russian territories historically inhabited by Ukrainians" (No. 17/2024 dated 22 January 2024).

Quote: "The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine is to develop, with the involvement of international experts, representatives of the Ukrainian World Congress, scholars, and the public, and submit for consideration by the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine a plan for preserving the national identity of Ukrainians in the Russian Federation, including in lands historically inhabited by them (in Kuban, Starodubshchyna, Northern and Eastern Slobozhanshchyna within the boundaries of the present-day Krasnodar Krai, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov oblasts of the Russian Federation)."

Details: This plan is to include, in particular:

addressing the issue of collecting and studying facts and evidence of crimes committed against Ukrainians residing (or previously residing) in the territories of Russia, historically inhabited by ethnic Ukrainians, regarding policies of forced Russification, political repression, and deportations against Ukrainians, restoration and preservation of historical memory, including the establishment of a centre on these matters;

intensifying efforts to counter disinformation and propaganda by the Russian Federation concerning the history and the current situation of Ukrainians in Russia and all the nations enslaved by it, involving domestic and foreign scholars, experts, and representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora in the preparation and implementation of events aimed at debunking Russian myths about Ukraine;

developing cooperation between Ukrainians and nations oppressed by Russia;

ensuring, in collaboration with the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the preparation and dissemination of materials in Ukraine and globally on the more than thousand-year history of Ukrainian statehood, historical ties to lands populated by ethnic Ukrainians, and Ukrainian national state entities in different historical periods;

incorporating the true history of ethnic Ukrainians in lands historically inhabited by them within the Russian Federation into educational curricula and textbooks for educational institutions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine must consider the provisions of this decree when developing a comprehensive strategy for Ukraine's interaction with the global Ukrainian community.

Zelenskyy is justifying his decree by stating that "Russia has systematically been engaged in and continues to engage in actions aimed at the destruction of national identity, oppression of Ukrainians, violation of their rights and freedoms, including in the lands historically inhabited by them of Kuban, Starodubshchyna, Northern and Eastern Slobozhanshchyna within the boundaries of the present-day Krasnodar Krai, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov oblasts of the Russian Federation."

He emphasises the necessity for Russia to adhere to its international obligations by ensuring the rights of Ukrainians residing on its territories, including those historically inhabited by ethnic Ukrainians. This includes the right to receive education in the Ukrainian language and its free use, as well as civil, social, cultural, and religious rights, access to Ukrainian-language media, and the right to peaceful assembly.

Background:

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his greetings on Ukraine's Unity Day in 2024 that he had signed a decree On the Territories of the Russian Federation Historically Inhabited by Ukrainians.

The Russian government, led by Vladimir Putin, explains the war against Ukraine as a "defence" of Russian-speaking people on "original Russian lands" and claims that it is supposedly fighting NATO on Ukrainian territory.

Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and current Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, recently stated:"The existence of an independent state on historically Russian territories will now be a constant pretext for the resumption of combat actions."

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The CEO of Kyte Baby, a Texas-based baby clothing company, issued two apologies after an employee, Marissa Hughes, was fired for requesting remote work while her adopted baby was in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

CEOs apology: The CEO, Ying Liu, initially apologized in a scripted TikTok video but faced backlash for its perceived insincerity. Several hours later, Liu posted another video with an off-script apology, admitting her decision to deny the remote work request and expressing regret for the insensitivity and selfishness of her choice.

I was insensitive and selfish, Liu said. I cannot imagine the stress that she had to go through not having the option to go back to work and having to deal with a newborn in the NICU. Thinking back, it really was a terrible mistake I understand if you dont want to come back to work anymore, but we will continue to pay you as if you were working remotely for us for those hours you proposed until youre ready to come back. Your original position is always open for you.

Trending on NextShark: Model of Ukrainian descent becomes Miss Japan 2024, sparking debate

Company policy: Kyte Baby stated that Hughes, who worked for about seven months, qualified for two weeks of paid maternity leave but was unable to sign a required six-month contract due to her son's situation. The situation has led the company to now revise its maternity leave policy.

She did propose a remote option for her job, but given that her role was largely on-site, at that time, we did not feel that the proposed plan would fulfill the responsibilities of her current position, Kyte Baby told CNN. We told her we understood her situation and informed her that her job would be here if and when she opted to return.

Hughes response: Hughes, who has since acknowledged Lius apology, feels that returning to the company would be inappropriate. However, she says she is glad to hear about Kyte Babys efforts to review and revise company policies to benefit current and future employees.

Trending on NextShark: Viral video of Chinese tourists' confrontation with UK pianist sparks debate

About Hughes baby: In December, Hughes and her partner adopted a baby boy born after only 22 weeks of gestation. The infant, weighing "barely over a pound" at birth, faced various health concerns. The couple sought crowdsourced funds through a GoFundMe campaign to cover the significant NICU costs and various adoption and legal fees associated with the adoption. They have raised more than $88,000, as of this writing.

Nationwide parental leave policies: The incident highlights the relative lack of workplace protections for mothers and pregnant individuals in the U.S., as parental leave policies vary and there is no federal guarantee for paid parental leave. The flexibility of remote work during the pandemic has been crucial for working mothers, but challenges persist in ensuring support and financial viability for caregivers.

Trending on NextShark: Kyte Baby CEO under fire for denying employee remote work while her baby was in NICU

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LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A new ambulance service will begin to provide services in six Lancaster County communities beginning in February.

The Municipal Emergency Services Authority of Lancaster County (MESA) is a publicly funded municipal authority formed to replace Northwest EMS. Conoy Township, East Donegal Township, Elizabethtown Borough, Marietta Borough, Mount Joy Township, and West Donegal Township will all be serviced by the new service beginning on Feb. 4.

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Municipalities are responsible for many things including recreation facilities, police services, stormwater management, and snow removal to name a few, said MESA Board Chair Debra Dupler. In Pennsylvania, municipalities are also required by law to ensure the provision of emergency medical services. In the tradition of Northwest EMS, MESA looks forward to continuing to provide outstanding 911 EMS service and 24/7 readiness to respond to EMS calls in the region.

According to MESA, the service will be funded by charging property owners and employers in member municipalities a mandatory annual fee to fund their operations. The first annual bills will arrive by mail in mid-February.

As quoted in the release, benefits to residents of MESA include:

No residual bills for EMS services if the patients insurance pays;

50% off EMS bills if the patient does not have insurance coverage

50% off EMS bills if the patients payment applies to an insurance deductible.

Northwest EMS is tremendously grateful for the communitys partnership through the years, said Scott Kingsboro, authority manager for MESA and formerly executive director of Northwest EMS. We look forward to serving the community with the same outstanding service for which Northwest EMS is known as we proudly wear a new uniform. And just as it was for Northwest EMS, health and safety education and community outreach events will continue to be an important part of our mission.

For more information about MESA, click here.

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KAMPALA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Saturday met with Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative Liu Guozhong who attended the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement and the 3rd South Summit in Kampala, the Ugandan capital. Both sides exchanged in-depth views on bilateral relations.

Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council, conveyed President Xi's cordial greetings to President Museveni and congratulated Uganda on successfully hosting the two summits.

He expressed appreciation for Uganda's contribution to consolidating the unity and cooperation of the Global South and spoke highly of Uganda's achievements in economic and social development.

China attaches great importance to developing relations with Uganda and is willing to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, Liu said. He called on both sides to firmly support each other, tap the potential of practical cooperation, strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Museveni asked Liu to convey sincere greetings to President Xi. He welcomed the vice premier and the Chinese government delegation to attend the two summits and thanked China for its significant contribution to the success of the meetings.

From joining hands to oppose colonialism and hegemonism and strive for national liberation, to strengthening unity and cooperation and jointly promoting development and revitalization, the destiny of the African and Chinese people has always been closely linked, Museveni said.

Uganda is willing to work with China to carry forward their traditional friendship, firmly support each other's core interests, expand pragmatic cooperation and enhance the well-being of the two peoples, he pledged, expressing his wishes for even greater achievements in China's development. 
Campaign reporters have been breathlessly chronicling the 2024 Republican primaries since Donald Trump prematurely launched his third presidential bid back in November 2022. Despite the seeming lack of drama for most of the race, there have been hundreds of national polls and countless articles and TV segments on the shifting fortunes of Trump, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and the other former pretenders for the GOP nomination.

As an aging boy on the bus who has reveled in covering presidential races since the 1980s, it pains me to write this: Voters might have been better off if they had ignored all of it.

Aside from a vigorous debate on aid to Ukraine (an issue on which Haley has shined compared to the neo-isolationism of Trump and DeSantis), it is hard to find a glimmer of substance to the GOP race unless you somehow care who uses which bathroom. As a result, the coverage has mostly revolved around polls and vaporous theories of who has momentum (what George H.W. Bush called the Big Mo back in 1980). And an embarrassing amount of it has been dead wrong.

With DeSantis hoisting the white flag on the eve of Tuesdays New Hampshire primary (his war against woke put everyone to sleep), it is sobering to remember that a year ago the Florida governor was beguiling the media while Trump was widely depicted as yesterdays man in his never-ending vindication tour.

Premature horse-race numbers helped frame this wrongheaded narrative. A respected national poll by the Marquette University Law School, released almost exactly a year ago, found DeSantis beating Trump 6238 among Republicans. In the first primary state, according to a poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire, DeSantis had a 12-point edge over Trump. While other polls a year ago this week showed Trump retaking the lead, Nikki Haley never registered more than 3 percent in any of them.

But it was not just polling that boosted DeSantis last January. The mood among Republican elites and their chroniclers in the press was decidedly anti-Trump. The New York Times discovered, after interviewing more than one-third of the 168 members of the Republican National Committee, that few of them were eager to crown Mr. Trump their nominee for a third time. That same week, The Wall Street Journal stressed in a news story, While Mr. Trump retains significant support, many major donors, Republican leaders and some voters say Mr. DeSantis is the partys future.

Even as it began to dawn on some reporters that DeSantis was even less likeable than Ted Cruz, there remained a stubborn belief that DeSantiss poll numbers were real rather than ephemeral. In mid-February, Nate Cohn, the chief political analyst for the Times, argued that DeSantis had staying power in the Republican raceunlike former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, whose overhyped campaign ended before the 2016 Iowa caucuses. Based on poll data, Cohn confidently wrote, Mr. DeSantis has a lot more in common with Barack Obama or Ronald Reagan than Mr. Walker or the other promising first-time candidates who did not live up to high hopes.

When Haley became the first Trump challenger to enter the fray on Valentines Day, you could have made a huge payoff by betting that the former U.N. ambassador would outlast DeSantis (and everyone else) as a contender for the nomination. A typical assessment in The Economist concluded that Haleys spinelessness in constantly shifting her responses to Trump makes her an unappealing choice both to the MAGA base and to more traditional conservatives. CNN was equally skeptical: Haley will likely face stiff competition in this lane from other potential GOP candidates such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

In hindsight, the turning point in what passes as the Republican race probably came in early April when Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced the first criminal indictment of Trump. Braggs decision to go after the former president over his half-forgotten 2016 payoff to a porn star fostered the dangerous illusion among Republican voters that Trump was a martyr. A national Reuters/Ipsos poll released at the time of the indictment found that Trump had opened up a nearly 30-point lead over DeSantis.

But a segment of the media couldnt accept the reality that the charisma-challenged Florida governor, who tried to run to Trumps right, was on the ropes. When DeSantis formally announced his candidacy in late May, the Journal editorial page declared that judging by the polls and his financial backing to date, he is the biggest threat to Mr. Trump. On MSNBCs Morning Joe, host Joe Scarborough played the contrarian and claimed that DeSantis had an even money chance of defeating Trump. In mid-June, The Washington Post took seriously the overly ambitious boasting by a pro-DeSantis super PAC: Never before has a presidential effort invested in doors in the way the DeSantis machine is doing. By Labor Day, Never Back Down aims to have about 2,600 trained canvassers in the 18 early nominating states.

One of the dangers inherent in political prophesy is fighting the last war. In early June, when Chris Christie and Mike Pence were poised to enter the GOP race, Reuters warned of a repeat of the 2016 primaries when the anti-Trump forces could not unite behind a single challenger: Republicans who fear Trump is too polarizing a figure to beat Democratic President Joe Biden in 2024 worry that if too many candidates jump into the partys contest, they will splinter the anti-Trump vote. Well, the anti-Trump vote is no longer splintered, and Haley, alas, doesnt appear to be any closer to toppling Trump in their head-to-head in New Hampshire on Tuesday.

Now for my own embarrassing confession: I thought I had learned, over four decades of political reporting, the dangers of making glib predictions and getting ahead of the actual political storyline. But that did not prevent me from writing in May about Tim Scott: In a long campaign season, some candidates have a moment when they look as if they are real contenders for the nomination. And the bet here is that Scott, especially after he visually stands out on a monochromatic Republican debate stage, will have one of those moments in 2023. After three weak debate performances, Scotts chance for such a moment ended when he dropped out in November. Now hes newly engaged as a Trump surrogate angling to be the veep pick.

At least I was never gulled by the bumptious Vivek Ramaswamy. Following the first Republican debate in August, NBC News gushed, A charismatic public speaker, Ramaswamy, 38, has risen from relative obscurity to the top tier of the Republican presidential primary by embracing Trump wholeheartedly. The Associated Press also succumbed to Ramaswamys brass-knuckles debate style: At the center of the stage, and the center of the debates hottest exchanges, was  a novice candidate and technology entrepreneur named Vivek Ramaswamy. A weak fourth-place finish in Iowa sent Ramaswamy packing. (He endorsed Trump, just as DeSantis did on Sunday.)

The moral inherent in all this is a sad one: In his cultish capture of the Republican Party, Donald Trump has single-handedly destroyed traditional campaign journalism, at least on the GOP side. If the rituals of the early states dont matter, if campaign announcements and stump speeches dont matter, if endorsements (Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds for DeSantis and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu for Haley) dont matter, then what is the point of chronicling the GOP nomination fight?

No doubt many other political journalists are asking that very question. Even Politico, which made its name by supercharging horse-race coverage, asked in the title of its flagship Playbook newsletter on Monday, Is the primary over? Barring a Haley miracle in New Hampshire, the race to derail Trump has indeed come to a screeching halt. Good riddance to the most lopsided contested presidential nomination fight since the rise of the primaries in the 1970s. Now we can turn to a truly dramatic and consequential general election battle between a stable, successful president and a deranged authoritarian Republican out for revenge and retribution. With democracy on the line, lets hope and pray that the voters dont tune this one out.
At least two people were injured after crashes in New Castle on Sunday.

Lawrence County dispatchers say emergency crews were called to the intersection of South Mill Street and East Home Street at around 3 p.m. on Sunday.

A car appeared to have suffered heavy damage to its front, just near Nicks Auto Body.

At least two people were injured after crashes in New Castle on Sunday.

Just a block down the road on South Mill Street another vehicle had crashed through the brick porch of a house.

A red Chevrolet car appeared to have hit the porch so hard that its front passenger side wheel had been ripped off. That vehicle also had damage to its drivers side door.

At least two people were injured after crashes in New Castle on Sunday.

Investigators say the two people who were injured were taken to a hospital from the South Mill Street and East Home Street intersection.

Channel 11 observed Pennsylvania State Police and New Castle Police responding to the incident. We have reached out to state police for more information and are waiting to hear back.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Electoral saboteurs are already leveraging the tools of the day to throw the New Hampshire primary.



A robocall utilizing a digitally manipulated recording of President Joe Biden rang the phones of New Hampshire Democrats over the weekend, imploring them to save their votes during the presidential primary on Tuesday, calling the write-in campaign malarkey.

Voting this Tuesday only enables the Republicans in their quest to elect Donald Trump again. Your vote makes a difference in November, not this Tuesday, the call said, before dishing the phone number of Kathy Sullivan, the former chair of the New Hampshire Democratic Party.

NBC reports that NH voters are getting robocalls with a deepfake of Bidens voice telling them to not vote tomorrow.



its important that you save your vote for the November election.https://t.co/LAOKRtDanK pic.twitter.com/wzm0PcaN6H  Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) January 22, 2024

Sullivan, still a prominent New Hampshire Democrat, is the brains behind Granite for America, a super PAC dedicated to urging Granite State voters to write in Biden as a candidate on Tuesday after the state rejected a new Biden-backed DNC calendar that moved New Hampshires historically front-and-center primaries down the totem pole.

I want them to be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible because this is an attack on democracy, Kathy Sullivan, a former state party chair, told NBC News about whoevers behind the robocalls, adding that she plans to involve federal law enforcement.

Im not going to let it go. I want to know whos paying for it? Who knew about it? Who benefits? she added.

The New Hampshire attorney generals office said it is investigating the matter as an unlawful attempt at voter suppression.

Although the voice in the robocall sounds like the voice of President Biden, this message appears to be artificially generated based on initial indications, the attorney generals office said in a statement, noting that it had received several complaints about the unsolicited contact. These messages appear to be an unlawful attempt to disrupt the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election and to suppress New Hampshire voters. New Hampshire voters should disregard the content of this message entirely.

Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez told NBC News that the campaign is actively discussing additional actions to take immediately.
When City Manager Marcus Jones unveiled the FY25 budget last summer, he warned city councilmembers it would be challenging to continue to produce a revenue neutral budget while adding and maintaining services.

Councilman James Mitchell reminded his colleagues about that.

2024 CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL RETREAT:

The city manager warned us though, if you dont increase property tax last cycle, you are going to have tough decisions to make in the future, he said. Council, this is the future now.

The future is here and Charlotte City Council is staring down uncertainty over how to fund its needs and wants.

Charlotte City Councilmembers are currently at the Graylyn Conference Center in Winston-Salem for their annual budget retreat. Councilmembers heard from Budget Director Ryan Bergman on Monday afternoon.

City council hasnt raised its property tax in five years. The streak may soon end.

I want to apologize to those of you who are on the budget committee this year because it is going to be a little bit harder, Mayor Vi Lyles said.

City staff showed council a chart showing the city is expecting an extra $32.6 million in new revenue. Thats $200,000 shy of what the city needs to cover its new expenses like increases in health care and retirement costs. It also doesnt include pay raises for employees or any new services.

Its a bond year too. While the city will be able to ask voters for $50 million for affordable housing, it cant ask for more without taking those funds from another priority like sidewalks or resurfacing.

Councilmember Dimple Ajmera says everything is on the table, but it is early in the process.

We have some tough decisions to make in terms of increased investments while also balancing our revenue, she said.

Any sales tax increase would need authorization from the legislature, which has been resistant to Charlottes past requests on the topic. Charlotte City Council can raise the property tax without the states blessing.

The City of Charlotte is hosting a Budget 101 session at Camp North End on Jan. 30 at 6 p.m. Residents will be able to learn more about what makes up the citys budget. There will also be listening sessions scheduled in the future for community members to directly engage with city leadership on budget priorities.

(WATCH BELOW: NC budget would let drivers licenses expire in 16 years, but theres a catch)
While T.J. Gordon has used a walking stick consistently for the past two years due to chronic leg pain, he typically relies on his legs and public transportation to get him where he needs to go in the summer.

But winter is harder, the 36-year-old research associate said.

Last week was too cold for him to wait half an hour for a bus to take him to his home in Lakeview from his job at the University of Illinois Chicago. His leg pain also made it much too long for him to stand. He instead depended on taxis  a cost that quickly adds up  or ADA Paratransit, a transportation service for people with disabilities. The sidewalks can be difficult to traverse, especially at crosswalks, he added.

The older I get, the more Im susceptible to slips, he said. Granted I can still catch myself before I fall, but I think the last couple years I might have slipped and fell on the ice at least twice.

Some Chicagoans who use wheelchairs and mobility aids say its challenging to navigate the citys sidewalks when extreme weather grips the region, like last week. Wind chills descended to nearly minus 30 degrees on Tuesday, while the city saw 1.5 inches of snow Friday morning.

Disability and transit advocacy organizations are calling on the city to improve conditions, referencing a program that could require the city to clear some sidewalks in winter.

In Lakeview, Gordon said sidewalks are usually salted. But he said its often treacherous at crosswalks and intersections. Other places hes lived seemed better equipped for the cold. In Minnesota, for example, he said paths were cleared quicker. He said there were also more tunnels and pedways that didnt require standing outside as long.

If you want to cross the street, you have to hop over big puddles (of slush), whether its to cross an intersection or if you try to come off the curb to get out of a car, Gordon, a co-founder of the Chicagoland Disabled People of Color Coalition, said. I have long legs, but I cant jump as far as I used to. I can only imagine those who may rely more on walkers, and even wheelchairs.

City issues 13 citations

Home, business and property owners in Chicago  and sometimes renters, depending on their lease agreement  are responsible for clearing sidewalks of snow and ice seven days a week. According to the citys website, snow that falls between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. must be removed before 10 p.m., and snow that falls between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. must be removed by 10 a.m.

A 5-foot wide path must be cleared on all sidewalks adjacent to a property, including crosswalk ramps, and they ask that people not shovel snow into the right of way  transit stops, bus pads, bike planes, parking spaces and more. Owners are also responsible for shoveling corner lots.

Right of way inspectors enforce the citys sidewalk snow clearing ordinance, issuing $50 to $500 citations per day to property owners who dont follow these rules, according to Erica Schroeder, a spokesperson for the Department of Transportation. An administrative hearings judge determines the amount on a per-case basis. To report sidewalks that arent clear, the city asks that residents call 311 or make a service request online.

Ensuring that sidewalks are cleared promptly following major snow and ice events is extremely important for the mobility and accessibility of all users of our right of way, especially older adults and people with disabilities, Schroeder said. Keeping Chicagos 7,400 miles of sidewalks clear of snow and ice is everyones responsibility  not only is it the neighborly thing to do, but it is also the law.

In 2024, she said the city has issued 13 citations, as of Friday. However, theyve received 647 complaints of uncleared ice or snow on sidewalks via the 311 system  which she noted may include multiple reports from the same location.

Last winter, she said the city issued 81 citations but received more than 1,200 complaints.

Inspectors may opt to issue a warning instead of an immediate fine for first-time violators, Schroeder said. The goal is not to issue fines, but to ensure compliance so that people can get around safely.

Trapped in her home

For Cherlnell Lane, it feels as if the city isnt doing enough to make travel safe for everyone. The 41-year-old Washington Park resident has used a wheelchair since 2012 due to arthritis in her knees and back and fibromyalgia.

Navigating sidewalks when theres snow on the ground is difficult, she said, because her wheelchair cant gain traction. With ice, the chairs wheels slip and slide in the same way that a cars wheels do, she said. If someone doesnt shovel on her block, she said shes trapped.

Lane loves watching concerts and plays at the Green Line Performing Arts Center, which is close enough to her apartment that she can ride there. When theres snow on the ground, she cant visit. She also struggles to go to a nearby food pantry, doctors offices, grocery store and religious services.

If snow isnt cleared, she said its also more difficult to take Pace ADA transportation, because she cant get on the ramp to get into the vehicle.

Its frustrating. Another thing it is, which I dont think people understand, it can be embarrassing for you to want to do something thats so close, thats so normal for you to do on a regular basis and now you cant do it, she said. Theres a light shown on how much I cant do. It hurts.

If calling 311 doesnt get results, Lauren Galloway, a staff attorney at Chicago-based Equip for Equality, said she usually advises clients to do informal advocacy, such as reaching out to business or homeowners or elected officials directly to fix the problem.

But it can be difficult when in the moment the snow is blocking your ability to be able to access what you need to access, she said. Its something that continues to be a difficulty for folks.

Snowplow pilot program in the works

Some activists are looking to shift some of the responsibility for clearing sidewalks to the city, calling the current system unsafe and inconsistent.

A group of city officials are now designing a publicly funded sidewalk snowplow pilot program, subject to City Council approval. Some aldermen raised concerns when the proposal advanced in July about the costs of the program and location of pilot zones.

The working group will make recommendations by May 31 about the size of the pilot program, the areas included in the pilot and how it will be funded.

If all goes according to plan, Laura Saltzman, a transportation policy analyst for the disability rights group Access Living, which has advocated for the municipal sidewalk clearing program, said the pilot should go into effect next January in a few different areas.

Reports of snow and ice on sidewalks are the most common transportation-related complaint the group gets in winter, Saltzman said. Its a problem everywhere in the city, she said, but around vacant lots its especially pronounced.

Its understandable that property owners who are blind, use wheelchairs or canes, or are even away on vacation may struggle to clear their sidewalks, she said. She believes it makes more sense for sidewalk clearance to be a government-delivered service.

We dont depend on people to clean the streets. Sidewalks are public rights of way, she said. Why do we depend on private citizens to clear public rights of way?

For Lane, it can be challenging to meet her basic needs in winter. But not being able to go places or do things that make her happy is often the most painful. She said she wants people with disabilities to have the same opportunities as able-bodied people.

Imagine if one day you woke up and all the doors to your houses were gone and you couldnt get out, because thats how it is for us, she said. Were locked in.

rjohnson@chicagotribune.com
Authorities in Nicaragua have jailed nine pastors for more than a month on charges that they formed part of a criminal operation along with three U.S. missionaries, according to the mission organization.

The Nicaraguan Attorney Generals office has charged the three U.S. missionaries of Texas-based Mountain Gateway and 11 Nicaraguans with forming part of a criminal structure involved in money laundering and organized crime and has reportedly issued warrants for their arrest.

Mountain Gateway would like to publicly state it denies these allegations, and it is saddened by this situation, the group said in a press statement. "These charges are based on erroneous information, and Mountain Gateway will do everything in its power to resolve this through diplomatic channels."

Mountain Gateway, which operates in the Central American country as Puerta de la Montana, said prosecutors believed the Nicaraguan pastors were under the direction of the mission groups Jon Britton Hancock, Jacob Britton Hancock and Cassandra Mae Hancock, all U.S. citizens, and Nicaraguans Walner Omier Blandon Ochoa and Maricela de Fatima Mejia Ruiz.

While the Nicaraguan government says the [Nicaraguan] pastors are innocent, the pastors have been imprisoned for over a month with no legal representation or contact with their families, Mountain Gateway stated. At the same time, it added that the government has since allowed a lawyer to be appointed to represent the Mountain Gateway Nicaraguan pastors, but has not provided their legal counsel with the charging documents or any files to prepare a defense.

Mountain Gateway stated that it had diligently followed all legal requirements in the U.S. and Nicaragua and had documentation showing the Nicaraguan government approved all funds entering the country and ensured they were used appropriately.

Nicaragua has revoked the registration of hundreds of non-profit and faith-based organizations in the last five years, including most recently, expelling numerous members of the Catholic Church and seizing church property, the group stated. In these cases, the government often includes the charge of money laundering or other financial charges as the reason for revocation.

Mountain Gateway held eight large evangelistic events in Nicaragua last year under strict accounting by in-house staff and budget reviews by the Nicaraguan government, the group stated.

No members of Mountain Gateway have personally profited from funds sent to Nicaragua for ministry functions, it said.

The missions group announced on Dec. 22 that the Nicaraguan government had canceled its registration as a ministry in the country.

Nicaragua shut down, confiscated or destroyed 347 Christian buildings from Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2023, the fourth highest worldwide behind only China, India and Nigeria, according to Open Doors 2024 World Watch List (WWL) of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian. Nicaraguan authorities detained 38 Christians during this period, according the WWL report.

Open government hostility toward Christians during the period resulted in Nicaragua vaulting from 50th place the prior year to 30th among the 50 countries where persecution of Christians is worst. The WWL report also cited Nicaraguas legislative restrictions on religious freedom and the arrest or exile of religious leaders.

Mountain Gateway said in its press statement that its U.S. pastors have nothing to hide and have requested to have an attorney appointed to represent them in this legal process.

Mountain Gateway does not understand why this is happening in a country that it loves dearly and has worked steadfastly to abide by the governments regulations and laws, the group stated. While Mountain Gateways attorney and legal team are advising Mountain Gateway to trust the legal system, it does have questions. It appears this could be more politically motivated than legally motivated.

Imprisoned were nine of Mountain Gateways Nicaraguan pastors: Marcos Sergio Hernandez Jiron; Harry Lening Rios Bravo; Manuel de Jesus Rios Flores; Jose Luis Orozco Urrutia; Alvaro Daniel Escobar Caldera; Juan Carlos Chavarria Zapata; Juan Luis Moncada; Orvin Alexis Moncada Castellano; Cesar Facundo Burgalin Miranda.

The AP reported that the Prosecutors Office said in a press statement that 11 Nicaraguans were charged, along with the legal representative and financial manager of Puerta de la Montana. Prosecutors claimed that detailed investigations into money laundering showed the 13 nationals were allegedly involved in appearing as representatives in the purchase of real estate.

The government of Daniel Ortega has closed or dissolved 342 religious organizations, including 256 evangelical Christian associations, 43 Catholic ones and 43 belonging to other churches, according to The AP, citing a December report by Nicaragua Never Again Human Rights Collective. Ortega has been president since 2007, after having previously led the country from 1979 to 1990.

The government has set a hearing for the Nicaraguan pastors on Jan. 26.

Mountain Gateway Order, Inc., based in Dripping Springs, Texas, states on its website that it focuses on discipling national leaders through house churches and corporate worship and training national pastors to reach the lost in their nation. Mountain Gateway also runs a ministry training school in the United States to teach believers to take the gospel into any context or culture.

Since 2013, Mountain Gateway has served the citizens of Nicaragua through discipleship, church planting, feeding and clothing those in need, providing food, water, equipment, and recovery assistance during natural disasters, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in mass evangelistic campaigns, the group said in its press statement.
Long Beach, California, is stuck with a $300,000 bill after three of its police officers arrested a cancer patient with "brutal force" for driving with an expired vehicle registration.

On September 3, 2022, Johnny Jackson, who had undergone surgery for his prostate cancer the day prior, was driving home from an errand to make a copy of his doctor's note following surgery when he noticed he was being followed by an unmarked Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) vehicle.

According to a lawsuit filed last October, when Jackson pulled into his driveway, the LBPD vehicle parked outside his house. Jackson exited his car, holding his doctor's note, and told the officers that he knew he had an issue with his vehicle registration. In response, the officers, who were not named in the complaint, ordered Jackson to put his hands up and approach them. As he was doing so, Jackson was additionally ordered to put his hands on his head and turn so his back was facing one officer, while a second officer approached Jackson's front porch.

Body camera footage shows Jackson again telling the officers that he knew his vehicle registration may have been expired and that he had gotten surgery for his prostate cancer the day before. The lawsuit states that, while Jackson was speaking, "a gust of wind began blowing the Doctor's Note off the top of his vehicle." Jackson then told the officers that "this is actually my paperwork for my surgery yesterday," and put one of his hands on the note to prevent it from blowing away.

In response, one of the officers rushed to grab Jackson's arm, pinning it behind his back and telling him that he was "about to get fucked up."

"Listen to me, put your hands behind your back. If you resist you will get hurt," one officer told Jackson. "If you hurt me I will sue you. I just had surgery," Jackson replied.

Body camera footage shows the ensuing struggle, in which Jackson was pulled in multiple directions by the officers, as Jackson again told them he was recovering from surgery. The lawsuit states that one officer struck Jackson in the head in an attempted "takedown maneuver," which he followed by kneeing Jackson in his groin three times.

"Why are you forcing us to use force on you?" one officer asked

Eventually, Jackson was handcuffed and cited for having an expired vehicle registration and resisting arrest. Jackson sued the city and police department in October 2023, arguing that the officers engaged in excessive force and caused him multiple injuries by arresting him so violently, despite being aware of his recent surgery.

A settlement in the case was reached in December 2023, and the staggering $300,000 value was announced last week.

"Mr. Jackson emerged victorious in his lawsuit against LBPD [which] has not only helped to restore, for Mr. Jackson, his dignity and pride," Michael Slater, one of Jackson's lawyers, told the Davis Vanguard. "It is also evidence that no law enforcement officer is above the same laws Mr. Jackson, and we as citizens, have untrusted them with enforcing."

But, as Slater noted, "A civil settlement cannot, on its own, right the wrongs committed by the Long Beach Police Department against Mr. Jackson."

The post Long Beach, California, Police 'Brutally' Arrested a Cancer Patient. Now, the City Is Paying $300,000. appeared first on Reason.com.
Assemblywoman Inez Dickens, a Democrat and longtime fixture in Harlem politics, said Monday that she intends to retire, capping a political career that included a stint in the leadership of the New York City Council.

Last year, Dickens sought a return to the Council, but came up short in a primary election campaign against Yusef Salaam, a member of the exonerated Central Park Five who went on to win the general election. Dickens will retire when her term concludes at the end of the year, said her spokeswoman Tyquana Rivers.

Dickens, a daughter of the trailblazing Assemblyman Lloyd Dickens, has served in the Assembly since 2017. Previously, she held a Council seat in Harlem for more than a decade. On the Council, she spent four years as majority whip and four years as assistant deputy majority leader.

It has been a humbling journey to work as a servant leader in city and state government, Dickens, 74, said in a statement Monday. I look forward to continuing to work on the issues that are near and dear to my heart.

Dickens has helped pave the way for the creation of a new 400,000-square-foot mixed-use complex on 125th St. set to include a civil rights museum and 170 affordable housing units, according to a statement released by her spokeswoman. Rivers said Dickens plans to continue to work to combat the citys housing crisis after she leaves office.

Shes a legend, former Rep. Charles Rangel, Harlems voice in Congress for decades, said of Dickens. And she has a long history of producing for the community.

Rangel said by phone that he expects Dickens voice will continue to be heard in the community that she has served so well.

Dickens, a moderate Democrat, may have grown somewhat uncomfortable with the Assemblys leftward drift. She strongly opposes so-called good-cause eviction  far-reaching anti-eviction legislation  putting her at odds with Albany progressives. And her work as a landlord sometimes drew scrutiny from her left. Evictions reportedly carried out by Dickens family management company were a point of contention in last years Council race.

Her exit opens up a race for the Assemblys 70th District, which stretches from the northern edge of Central Park up through central Harlem to 145th St.

Rangel said that he has heard from several people who are considering runs. At least three candidates have publicly launched campaigns.

Joshua Clennon, a 31-year-old affordable-housing activist who has served as treasurer of the local community board, has been running for the seat since September. In a phone call Monday, he described Dickens as a pillar in our community.

Also already in the campaign fray: Maria Ordonez, a progressive organizer; and Shana Harmongoff, a seniors and mental health advocate.

Ordonez, a 24-year-old who said she is running to stop gentrification and fight for the people, expressed appreciation for Dickens service, but said that it was about time that she stepped aside for a younger generation.

Harmongoff, 41, had more effusive praise for the outgoing assemblywoman, calling her the Queen of Harlem and saying that she has done a phenomenal job.

A fourth candidate who appears to have his eye on the seat is Jordan Wright, son of Keith Wright, the chairman of the Manhattan Democratic Party. City & State reported last week that a fundraising effort had been launched for the younger Wright to make a run at Dickens seat.

A Wright for New York campaign committee was registered last Thursday, according to state Board of Elections records.

Wright, who is Salaams chief of staff, said by text Monday that he cares a great deal about the future of Harlem but that his thoughts were focused on Dickens and the years of service she and her family have committed to the village we call home.

He wrote that he would reach a decision on his run soon.
[Source]

Award-winning director Lulu Wang, famed for the acclaimed "The Farewell," opened up about navigating the challenges of representation and personal identity in helming Nicole Kidman's Amazon TV series Expats.

About the project: The series, based on Janice YK Lee's 1998 novel "The Expatriates," follows the lives of three women in 2014 Hong Kong  Margaret (Kidman), Mercy (Ji-young Yoo), and Hilary (Sarayu Blue)  whose fates collide in the aftermath of a devastating event.

Scheduled for release on Prime Video on Jan. 26, "Expats" marks Wang's first foray into television after the success of her 2019 film "The Farewell." Actors Brian Tee and Jack Huston also star in the series.

Initial reservations: Wang, a Chinese-born filmmaker who emigrated to Florida as a child, revealed in an interview with The Independent that she initially wanted to make sure she would be able to maintain her artistic integrity and cultural authenticity before accepting the project, which was offered to her by Kidman. However, she eventually found common ground with the Australian American actress and producer.

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I had really significant conversations to make sure that I would be allowed to tackle all of the complexities I wanted to tackle before saying yes to the show, she noted.

On accepting disappointment: Reflecting on her previous work, Wang also expressed nervousness about how "Expats" would be received by viewers. Citing the diversity of Asian experiences, she acknowledges potential criticism but stands firm in her vision.

I imagine, theres always going to be people who are disappointed, but I think part of my journey is realizing that I can't represent everyone, she was quoted saying. Maybe I have to be OK with the fact people are going to be disappointed.

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On navigating Asian experiences: While anticipating criticism, Wang sees the evolving landscape of Asian representation as a positive development. In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, she encourages the exploration of diverse Asian experiences.

Its a show that interrogates privilege and as somebody who doesnt come from privilege but is now in a position of privilege, Ive had both experiences," she notes. "And so just trying to live it and also channel it into the work.

On breaking stereotypes: Wang explained how "Expats" breaks stereotypes by showcasing that not all privileged expatriates are white and not all women crave motherhood. It also dives deep into the complex power dynamics between expat women and their domestic helpers, challenging viewers to see beyond simplistic labels.

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Hong Kong is so great, because its this intersection of very different walks of life, and you get to see all of the nuances, Wang told The Guardian. And I just wanted not to vilify anybody, but really just take the audience through a journey on which you might sympathize with someone and then theyll do something that you disagree with, or you might hate them, but then come around to loving them.

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(Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the date the shooting occurred.)

Two men have been arrested and charged with murder in connection with a killing on Jan. 14 in what was Macons first homicide of 2024.

Bibb County Sheriffs Office investigators, with the assistance of the sheriffs Gang Unit and Special Response Team, or SWAT, arrested 24-year-old Dequavia Pollard and 25-year-old Amore Calhoun in the shooting death of Clifford Tyrone Browner, 42. Browner was shot in the 1000 block of Triple Hill Drive just off Houston Avenue near Interstate 75 in south Macon.

Pollard and Calhoun were taken into custody without incident Friday evening and transported to the Bibb County Jail where they are being held without bond. Both men were charged with murder and criminal street gang activity.

Browner had multiple gunshot wounds when deputies arrived at the scene after a 911 call reported the shooting at about 3:30 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 14. Browner was taken to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. No one else was injured in the shooting, the sheriffs office said.

Details about what led up to the shooting, or who else may have been involved were not immediately released. The death is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Bibb Sheriffs Office at 478-751 -7500 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.
Democratic Maine Sen. Eloise Vitelli, sponsor of a proposal to amend the Maine Constitution to enshrine the right to an abortion, addresses supporters in the Hall of Flags at the Maine State House on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Augusta, Maine. (AP Photo/David Sharp)

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)  Maine Gov. Janet Mills and other leading Democrats are pressing to end future legislative debate over abortions by amending the state constitution to enshrine the right to reproductive health care, just six months after lawmakers expanded access to abortions.

Maine is seeking to join four other states that have amended their constitutions to protect the right to abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022.

But the proposal faces another tough, passionate battle after a closer-than-expected outcome last year in the Democratic-controlled Legislature, which voted along party lines to give Maine one of the nation's least restrictive abortion laws.

Amendment supporters say Mainers should have the final say, but it would take a two-thirds vote in each chamber to advance the amendment to a statewide vote at a time when many Republicans are still angry over last year's loss.

Theres no way its going to pass, said Republican Sen. Lisa Keim, of Dixfield. They shouldnt be putting this political theater on stage again.

On Monday, the 51st anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision that established a nationwide right to abortion, the governor lent her support to amending the Maine Constitution, saying the state must act to ensure the right to reproductive health care, regardless of which party is in control.

No matter how strong our laws may be, they are subject to everchanging political tides and can be repealed," she wrote in testimony to the Judiciary Committee. That is why, without any such federal protection, it is critical that Maine people be assured that reproductive autonomy be protected to the greatest extent possible in the state  through an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Maine.

Maine is one of more than a dozen other states that are considering ballot measures dealing with abortion for this year or in 2026. Most, in places including Arizona and Florida, would seek to ensure access, though in varying degrees. In Colorado, there are dueling efforts to get restrictions and access on the ballot.

Abortion questions have appeared on statewide ballots seven times since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. In each case, the side backed by abortion-rights advocates prevailed  even in conservative states such as Kansas and Kentucky and swing states such as Michigan and Ohio.

Measures to enshrine the right to abortion are already on the ballots for November 2024 in Maryland and New York. Like Maines proposal, they dont use the word abortion, but rather refer to reproductive autonomy or reproductive freedom.

On Monday, the sponsor of the proposal in Maine, Sen. Eloise Vitelli, of Arrowsic, warned that Maine isn't immune to efforts to restrict abortions, noting there have been more than two dozen proposals in recent years in the Legislature.

As we are seeing so clearly in state after state across this nation, laws can and do change, Vitelli told supporters of her proposal Monday before the Judiciary Committee held an hourslong public hearing that wrapped up in the late afternoon.

That's why it's important, supporters said, for Maine to join California, Vermont, Ohio and Michigan, states that have made reproductive freedom explicit in the state constitutions after the U.S. Supreme Court action.

About 100 people supporting the proposal rallied in the State House, along with House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross, Senate President Troy Jackson and others, but the tone was different from last year, when larger, boisterous crowds gathered in the halls.

Lisa Kushner of Belfast described her harrowing experience of entering a darkened building from an alley entrance to get an abortion in 1966, and she said lawmakers and the people of Maine should take additional steps to ensure that never happens again.

Personal reproductive decisions have no place in state legislatures. Our elected representatives should never be orchestrating constituents reproductive lives, she said. "Mainers deserve a right to vote and settle this issue," she added.

The amendment follows a new law that allows abortions at any time if deemed medically necessary by a doctor. Maine's previous law, adopted in 1993, made abortions legal until a fetus becomes viable outside the womb, at roughly 24 weeks.

The emotional debate included a public hearing that lasted 19 hours, driven mostly by a massive turnout by voters opposed to the proposal.

The bill was narrowly approved in the Maine House, passing 74-72, after the chamber took an hourslong break and the vote was held open for about 45 minutes.

Enraged Republicans accused Democrats of political shenanigans, but there were only a handful of abortion opponents present Monday. Keim said she didnt encourage those opposed to the amendment to come to the State House in a show of force, calling it a waste of their time, given the significant hurdles to passage.

Several teenagers were among those who quietly held signs in opposition to the amendment.

Kristina Parker, an 18-year-old activist, said many Mainers share her view that abortion is wrong. This is a constitutional amendment proposal to make personal reproductive autonomy a right, except I don't think anyone has a right to kill anybody, she said.

___

Associated Press writer Geoff Mulvihill in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, contributed to this report.
When Carlos and Ana married, they had a dream: to serve God as missionaries somewhere in the world. Both had grown up in evangelical churches in Colombia and had felt God's call to share the gospel with other cultures. However, they didn't know how to make it happen. "We had no resources, no support, no experience," recalls Carlos. "We thought missions were only for foreigners coming to our country."

But one day, Carlos and Ana heard about a Latin American mission agency that offered them training, orientation, and sending them to different fields. They enrolled in a missionary preparation course, and after a year of study and practice, they were assigned to a project in Central Asia, among a Muslim ethnic group that had never heard the name of Jesus. There, along with other Latin American missionaries, they have been serving for more than five years, learning the language, adapting to the culture, and sharing the love of Christ with their neighbors. "God has been faithful, and we have seen fruit amid difficulties," says Ana. "We are happy to be part of what God is doing in the nations."

The story of Carlos and Ana is just one example of the growing evangelical missionary movement that has been taking shape in Latin America for several years now. According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity, until recently there were more than 10,000 Latin American evangelical missionaries serving in more than 100 countries, especially in places where access to the Gospel is not easy, such as the Islamic, Buddhist and Hindu worlds. This figure represents an increase of more than 300% since 2000, and places Latin America as the third region in the world with the most evangelical missionaries, after North America and Europe.

Meanwhile, already back in 2007 a report by Lausanne World Pulse stated that almost twenty-five years before, Latin America formally joined the world missionary force. It shows how this has been a trend that started already earlier and is continuing today.



Now, four hundred mission agencies are sending out nine thousand Latin Americans. It is estimated that another three thousand have gone out without a sending structure.

The truth is that the evangelical missionary movement in Latin America has experienced significant growth in recent decades.

According to the ABWE (Association of Baptists for World Evangelism) website, "The Latin American church is like the sleeping giant that is awakening to plant gospel-centered churches throughout Latin America, to reach pockets of the unreached within its borders, and to send missionaries to the most difficult places in the world."

While Latin American missionaries face both challenges and opportunities, and the U.S. Church continues to play a role in supporting and collaborating with this movement, there are specific factors that explain this very interesting development.

A Biblical view of missions

One of the factors that has driven the missionary awakening in Latin America is the rediscovery of the biblical vision of missions, which understands that God's purpose is to glorify His name among all nations and that the Church is the instrument He has chosen to fulfill His plan. This vision has been transmitted and reinforced by various events, publications, and resources that have emphasized the missionary mandate of Christ and the urgency of reaching unreached peoples.

One of these events is the Latin American Congress on Evangelization (CLADE), which has been held every ten years since 1969 and has brought together thousands of evangelical leaders from all over the region to reflect on the mission of the church in the Latin American context. The last CLADE, held in Costa Rica, had as its theme "Integral discipleship in the power of the Spirit: Towards a missionary, prophetic and hopeful Church". It was affirmed that "God's mission is integral and embraces all dimensions of human life and creation", and a call was made to "assume the commitment to be a missionary church, which announces and lives the gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit, during the challenges and opportunities of our time".

Another event that has marked the missionary vision of Latin America is the Ibero-American Missionary Congress (COMIBAM), which began in 1987 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and has been considered the first missionary congress organized by and for Latin Americans.

The goal of COMIBAM has been to promote cooperation and missionary mobilization among Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking evangelical churches, agencies, and organizations. The last COMIBAM, held in Bogota, Colombia, had as its theme "The glory of Christ in the nations", and brought together more than 800 participants from 40 countries, who shared their experiences, challenges, and strategies for the progress of the kingdom of God in the world.

In addition to these events, it is worth mentioning the work of various Latin American missionary agencies and organizations that have emerged in recent decades to facilitate the sending and support of missionaries from the region. Some of these agencies are AMA (Argentine Missionary Agency), AMAL (Latin America Missionary Agency), AME (Evangelical Missions Agency), AMEC (Central American Evangelical Missionary Agency), AMEE (Ecuadorian Evangelical Missionary Association), AMEM (World Evangelization Mission), among others.

These agencies offer training, orientation, pastoral care, financial management, and support networks to missionaries and sending churches.

It is also worth highlighting the contribution of various publications and resources that have helped to spread the missionary vision among evangelical Christians in Latin America. These include the magazine VAMOS (Lets Go), which since 1984 has published articles, testimonies, and news about missions; the book "World Mission", written by missionary and theologian Jonathan Lewis, which offers a biblical, historical, and practical introduction to missions; the website Movilicemos.org, which offers free resources for missionary mobilization and education; and the radio program "Ventana al Mundo" (Window to the World), which broadcasts on more than 500 radio stations in 23 countries, informing and motivating listeners about missionary needs and opportunities.

A diverse and flexible cultural identity

Another factor that has favored the missionary awakening of Latin America is the diverse and flexible cultural identity that characterizes Latin Americans, which allows them to adapt and relate to other cultures more easily and naturally. Latin Americans are the result of a mixture of races, languages, beliefs, and traditions, which have shaped a rich and varied culture, which in turn has been influenced by the processes of globalization and migration. This cultural diversity has given Latin Americans a greater sensitivity and openness towards others, as well as a greater capacity for learning and intercultural communication.

These qualities are highly valued and leveraged in the mission field, where Latin American missionaries have proven to be effective and creative in the development of their ministry. Some examples of this are the use of music, art, and humor as means of evangelism and discipleship; the formation of multicultural and multidisciplinary missionary teams; the integration of the family and the community in missionary service; the attention to the social and humanitarian needs of the people; and putting the Gospel message in the context of the worldviews and values of the host cultures.

A testimony of the cultural advantage of Latin American missionaries is provided by the Brazilian pastor and missionary Ronaldo Lidorio, who has served for more than 20 years among the indigenous peoples of Brazil and Africa. He comments that "Latin Americans have a very great facility of adaptation because we are a people of mixed race, who have received influences from many cultures. We have a very good ability to relate to each other because we are a happy, festive people, who like music, dance, and sports. We have a very high social sensitivity because we are a people who have suffered a lot, who have gone through many difficulties, and who know what poverty is".

The evangelical missionary movement in Latin America is booming, with a growing number of believers - like Carlos and Ana - feeling the call to take the Gospel beyond their borders. As this "sleeping giant" continues to awaken, it is poised to bring about an even greater impact on the nations of the world in the years to come.
LEBANON, Maine  Authorities are investigating a two-vehicle collision on Route 202 that killed an Acton man on Saturday, Jan. 20, according to York County Sheriff William King.

King said a preliminary investigation showed that Joshua Griffin, 34, of Sanford, was driving east in a 2016 Dodge Charger when he allegedly lost control of the wheel, veered into oncoming traffic in the other lane, and struck a 2003 Honda Civic driven by Henry Berthiaume, 32, of Acton, at approximately 7 p.m.

Berthiaume, the only person in his vehicle, died in the crash.

The accident occurred near the intersection of Route 202 and Creamery Hill Road, according to King.

Authorities are investigating a two-vehicle collision on Route 202 that killed an Acton man on Saturday, Jan. 20, according to York County Sheriff William King.

Police said Griffin had two passengers in his vehicle. Griffin and one of the passengers were brought to the hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, King said.

Griffins second passenger was treated and released at the scene, he added.

When asked on Monday about the cause of the accident and about whether charges are expected, King replied, "The investigation is ongoing."

The crash caused Route 202 to be closed for several hours, as first responders and officials from Kings office, the Sanford Police Department and the states Department of Transportation worked at the scene.

I know what I did was wrong: Maine man pleads guilty in New Year's Eve machete attack

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Maine man killed in 2-vehicle crash on Route 202 in Lebanon
A Maine bill aimed to protect transgender youths access to care triggers outlandish claims of child-snatching as right-wingers wage a war of words on the proposed legislation.



A proposed bill introduced by Democrats, LD 1735, intended to protect gender-affirming health care for transgender minors, has sparked a firestorm of controversy and misinformation among conservative figures and groups. The bill provides protections for trans youth and their parents for seeking gender-affirming care as well as having the state take emergency custody of abused trans kids if the child is within its borders.

Chaya Raichik, who operates the Libs of TikTok social media account known for its anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, posted a misleading interpretation of the legislation, prompting an outcry from right-wing personalities.

Raichiks post incorrectly claimed that the new bill would allow the state to take custody of children if their parents oppose gender transition procedures, including surgery and hormone therapy.

New proposed bill in Maine says the state can take custody of a kid if the parents oppose s*x change surgery and the chemical castration of their kids, she wrote, urging people to email legislators whose email addresses she posted.

Far-right extremists and notable Republican influencers became enraged online, including figures such as former Fox News and NBC journalist turned right-wing influencer Megyn Kelly retweeting Raichiks post and adding, This is SICK! Bombard them with emails. This cannot pass.

This is SICK! Bombard them with emails. This cannot pass  (@)

Donald Trump Jr. also weighed in, amplifying Raichiks message to his audience.

They want full control of your kids. They want parents to have no say so they can do whatever they want. These people are evil and insane. Stop this madness, the twice impeached and multiply-indicted former presidents eldest son wrote.

They want full control of your kids. They want parents to have no say so they can do whatever they want. These people are evil and insane. Stop this madness.  (@)

However, the actual text of LD 1735 does not stipulate state custody in cases of parental opposition to gender-affirming procedures. Instead, the bill aims to block the enforcement of subpoenas and arrests related to gender-affirming health care if such actions are based on the laws of another state that conflict with Maines protections.

Amid the escalating furor and severe weather in Maine contributing to scheduling challenges, the Maine Houses judiciary committee postponed its Wednesday work session on LD 1735 to January 25. The postponement coincides with increased public pressure and the campaign of criticism directed at the committee members.

Republican state Rep. David Haggan, who described the bill in alarming terms, was quoted as saying, This bill authorizes the kidnapping and massacring of children from other states without parental consent, as reported by The Daily Mail.

As journalist Erin Reed points out, "The Maine bill aims to ensure that transgender individuals and their families, who seek safety and medical care in the state, are not compelled to return to their home states by extremist attorneys general, possibly under the threat of arrest. It would also make arresting the parents of trans youth pursuant to out of state warrants the 'lowest law enforcement priority.'"

It would allow Maine jurisdiction in custody battles if one parent lives in a state with banned or restricted gender-affirming care and the other lives in Maine.
A German projects helps fathers in prison stay close to their families. Here a 57-year-old at the Butzbach prison reflects on his children. Boris Roessler/dpa

There are many things that are tough about prison, and maintaining relationships with those on the outside isn't the least of them.

Inmates who are parents are faced with particular difficulties as they might miss out on crucial years in their children's lives. To help prisoners and relatives to maintain relationships - or rebuild them if needed - one facility north of Germany's financial capital of Frankfurt has introduced monthly family days.

The scheme allowing him to see his two primary-school-aged children on a regular basis has helped him to experience some everyday family life, one prisoner says.

The visits, supported by the kids' mother, are emotionally upsetting and beautiful at the same time, he says. Despite the circumstances and the setting, the encounters with his son and daughter are quite natural, and playing usually takes centre stage, according to the inmate.

The family days are organized by prison chaplain Barbara Zoller and two social workers as part of a father-child project in the Butzbach facility once a month. Two further prisons in the region are also participating in the scheme.

Inmates and their children can play together, do arts and crafts or simply have a little chat in a friendly environment, to enjoy a bit of normal family life during the visits. These are also open to inmates convicted of extremely serious crimes like femicide.

Another prisoner, who killed the mother of his four children more than 11 years ago and is now serving a lengthy sentence, wasn't sure whether regaining his kids' trust after the "horrific offence" which he says he did not plan or want, would ever be possible.

For the 57-year-old, it's been a long journey of many small steps to rebuild the relationship with his children with the help of many people, and the family day programme.

Those visits also offer the children space to ask questions, allowing them to process the events that led to their parent's imprisonment and understand them as part of their own reality.

Children and the relatives of prisoners in general are often faced with shame and stigma, says Zoller, therefore it is important to be as open and child-orientated as possible. Books are one way to help children to understand the situation and also alleviate stress and concerns, she says.

A pastor with additional training in systemic family therapy, Zollner recalls a 5-year-old who once took her hand during a visit.

The boy pointed to the prison bars on the window and said: "I know where we are, but mummy doesn't."

The child's mother had so far not told him about his father's imprisonment, afraid he'd tell others at day care.

While that was understandable, concealing the truth or even lying to children is not advisable in the long term, says Zoller.

Children usually understand much more than their parents think they do, according to the therapist. After such a radical event as imprisonment, "it's important that children feel they can continue to trust both parents."

To counteract nagging questions, rumours and exclusion at day care or school, Zoller recommends talking to teachers or educators and asking them to support the children and intervene if necessary.

Zoller knows from experience that even employees of youth welfare services sometimes have reservations when it comes to dealing with the families of inmates.

To break down barriers and increase awareness for their needs, she recently invited local youth welfare office employees on a tour of the prison highlighting the benefits of the family visit scheme.

In Germany, children generally have a right to contact with both parents.

The 57-year-old inmate says he has repeatedly sought to have frank conversations with his children, some of whom are now adults. The last time, on a supervised outing with one of his daughters, she wanted to know what had led to her mother's killing, he says.

The inmate had already fought to maintain contact with his children during pre-trial detention, which took place in another prison. After a thorough examination of whether visits could take place without harming the children, his request was granted, he says.

He's very grateful for that, he says, as well as for the support he and his children received from therapists and a social worker from day one.

The aim was "to ensure that the children didn't lose their father after they had lost their mother", says the inmate.

Prison chaplain Zoller's work with the inmates' relatives goes beyond organizing family visits. She also offers counselling by phone, supervises and supports inmates' children when they are on a phone call with their parent, organizes opportunities for partners to visit and helps prepare the inmates and their families for release.

And she's always available to talk after a prisoner returns from the temporary release, recalling one inmate's story in particular.

Each year that the inmate had spent in prison, the family would put a present for him under the Christmas tree, even though he was not there to celebrate with them. The presents were kept in a cupboard until one day, the father was allowed to return home on temporary release for the first time.

When his son asked him to unpack all the presents at once, the inmate didn't quite know how to act, Zoller recalls.

Another prisoner once complained that his first visit home had been "horrible," as when he arrived at the flat, his wife and three children had been sitting on the sofa, with no space left for him.

What may seem like a very minor grievance after years spent in jail actually serves as a great image of what many prisoners go through emotionally when returning to their families after release, Zollner says.

A worker at Butzbach prison in Germany which has a scheme that helps inmates connect with relatives outside. Boris Roessler/dpa
A 36-year-old man was shot dead in Brooklyn Monday morning, police said.

The victim was shot in the abdomen near Ralph and Sutter Aves. in Brownsville about 10:25 a.m., cops said.

Medics rushed him to Brookdale University Hospital but he could not be saved. His name was not immediately released.

The shooter ran off and has not been caught.
An Alexandria man accused of trying to kill a police officer on Thanksgiving Day in 2022 has been declared competent to proceed in the case against him.

An Alexandria man accused of trying to kill a police officer on Thanksgiving Day in 2022 has been declared competent to proceed in the case against him.

Jason Jamar Shackleford, 35, was shot by an Alexandria Police Department officer, Christopher Hayward, in an altercation captured by body and dash cameras. Hayward had gone to a Rapides Avenue address after a complaint about a man who either was lying in the road or running into traffic.

In the videos, Shackleford can be seen using the officer's own baton to choke him while Hayward fired five shots at him. One shot hit Shackleford in his left arm.

He was arrested on charges of attempted first-degree murder of a police officer, disarming of a police officer, possession of less than 2 grams of fentanyl, resisting an officer by force or violence and disturbing the peace after being released from a hospital.

Shackleford also was jailed on a parole violation and later was formally charged with the attempted murder of a police officer.

Jason Shackleford case: Alexandria officer's videos show struggle, shooting of man on Thanksgiving Day

Sheriff's Office: Rapides inmate dead after 'unprovoked' attack by another inmate

His attorney, Christopher LaCour, successfully had a sanity commission established for him in September. On Monday, 9th Judicial District Court Judge Chris Hazel found Shackleford competent to proceed.

According to online Rapides Parish Clerk of Court records, Shackleford rejected a plea bargain that would have sent him to prison for 20 years.

A trial has been set for July 15.

In a separate case on Monday, both the state and defense agreed to reschedule Markese Harrell's competency hearing to March 14 for attorneys could review doctors' reports.

Harrell is facing a second-degree murder charge in the May 2020 death of a fellow Rapides Parish Detention Center #1 inmate, 23-year-old Andrew Steven Myles.

At the time, the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office stated Myles' death came after an "unprovoked attack." Myles died at a hospital after Harrell allegedly attacked him in a holding cell.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Judge: Man charged in attempted murder of Alexandria cop is competent
(KRON)  Haoli Weng has been charged in connection to an armed robbery on Ocean Avenue, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced Monday.

Small businesses are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods and employees and patrons must be safe in them, said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. Armed robberies are terrifying and I will do everything in my power to ensure that there is accountability and consequences in this case. I am grateful to the witnesses who came forward and the San Francisco Police who made an arrest.

Alleged theft attempt led to arrest in Colma

Weng, 26, allegedly entered a business on the 1400 block of Ocean Avenue and pointed a semi-automatic pistol at a store employee who was standing behind the cash register, according to court documents. Mr. Weng allegedly stole $100 from the cash register and pointed the gun at the employee before fleeing, according to court documents.

Weng pleaded not guilty to one count of second-degree robbery and one count of possession of a firearm or deadly weapon without a competency certificate.

Wengs preliminary hearing court date is Feb. 1, 2024. If convicted, Weng faces 15 years in state prison.

Despite filed charges, this remains an active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the San Francisco Police Department Tip Line at (415)-575-4444.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
An investigation is underway after a man was found dead in a vehicle that was on fire early Sunday morning.

Dayton fire crews responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the 600 block of Draher Street at 12:43 a.m., according to Dayton Fire Department Captain Brad French.

>> 2 hospitalized, firefighters deal with challenges while battling Springfield house fire

Upon arrival, crews found a recreational vehicle that was fully involved in fire. The fire was extinguished and the inside of the vehicle was searched.

A man was found dead inside of the vehicle, French said.

>> He was still a baby; Family hosts vigil for teen they say died in recent Dayton shooting

The DFD Fire Investigations Unit is partnering with the Dayton Police Department and Montgomery County Coroners Office to determine the mans cause of death.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

French said this is the first fatal fire in the city of Dayton in 2024.

News Center 7 will continue updating this story as we learn more.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  A man has been acquitted of murder in the shooting of another man at a Kentwood hotel last year.

A jury on Monday found Jerry Kidd Jr. not guilty of murder, the Kent County prosecutor said. Kidd had put forth a claim of self-defense.

The shooting happened April 29, 2023, at the Affordable Suites of American on E. Beltline Avenue near 28th Street. Police said Kidd and 41-year-old Edgar Hernandez-Sandoval were fighting outside the hotel and Kidd shot the other man once. Hernandez-Sandoval died at the scene. Kidd was charged with open murder and a weapons charge.

Defense attorney Damian Nunzio thanked the jury for its work and said it reached the proper verdict.

Jerry Kidd had a valid concealed pistol license and he followed every rule with regard to using a firearm in self-defense, Nunzio said. The decedent was intoxicated and approached my client while armed with a knife. It was a valid case of self-defense.

Kidds trial began on Jan. 16, deliberations started Friday and resumed Monday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Fair selling Chinese New Year products opens in N China's Tianjin

People's Daily Online) 10:00, January 22, 2024

Photo shows the Ancient Cultural Street in north China's Tianjin Municipality. (People's Daily Online/Tang Xinyi)

North China's Tianjin Municipality is seeing an increasingly strong festive atmosphere as the Chinese New Year approaches.

A fair selling products for the Chinese New Year recently opened on the Ancient Cultural Street Street in the city, offering a wide range of traditional New Year goods such as decorations of the Chinese character Fu, meaning fortune and luck in English, with the figure of a dragon, the zodiac sign of the upcoming New Year, and Chunlian, also known as Chinese New Year couplets. Products featuring local intangible cultural heritage, including paper cut window decorations and velvet flowers, and auspicious traditional Chinese headwear are particularly popular among young people. The fair will run until Feb. 8.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to prison after officials say he hacked into dozens of Snapchat accounts to steal then sell the victims nude photos.

It happened between February 2020 and February 2022, according to a Jan. 19 news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

The man accessed the computers of dozens of women, obtained their nude photos and sold them, officials said.

Additionally, he was paid to hack into womens Snapchat accounts and steal nude photos, according to officials. He accessed their accounts by posing as a Snapchat representative and convincing users to reset their passwords and send him the verification codes.

This allowed him to then access the otherwise private sections of the accounts. (He) acknowledged earning between $50,000 and $60,000 from this activity, officials said.

Some of the people who paid the man would use the photos to extort the women and cyberstalk them, according to officials.

(He) regrets his actions immensely and is atoning for them. He ceased his conduct in February 2022, more than a year before police intervened. He apologizes to all affected, including the victims, his family, and friends, the mans lawyer told McClatchy News in an email.

A judge sentenced the man to 18 months in prison and two years of supervised release, officials said. He pleaded guilty in September to one count of obtaining information from protected computers, officials said.

Man posing as Snapchat representative tricked women to get their naked photos, feds say

Man raped 12-year-old and preyed on young girls through Snapchat, Indiana cops say

Man used Snapchat to sexually abuse 11-year-old and coerce her into his home, feds say
A man plunged roughly 60 feet off a bridge into the water below to evade officers, Virginia police said.

At 8:45 a.m. on Jan. 22, law enforcement saw a man in a black sedan driving recklessly on the James River Bridge in Newport News, according to Virginia State Police.

The 29-year-old man then hit another car, causing a four-vehicle crash, police said in a news release. The man got out of his vehicle and fled the scene on foot, authorities said.

As he approached the bridges draw, which is about 60 feet high, he spotted state police traveling in a lane of the bridge.

To avoid being arrested, he then jumped off the bridges south side and fell into the cold waters below, police said. The temperature in Newport News hit a high of 46 degrees and a low of 31, according to AccuWeather.

The rivers current carried him north until a civilian boat pulled him out of the water to safety. He was taken to a hospital, where Newport News police officers were waiting to arrest him once he was released.

The Suffolk man was wanted on a felony probation violation, police said.

Virginia State Police are investigating the crash.

Newport News is about 40 miles northwest of Virginia Beach.

Man ditches motorcycle, disappears in river while trying to flee police, MI cops say

Two die after SUV veers off road and sinks in 10 feet of water, California officials say

Man with 3 DUI convictions seen driving pickup on railroad tracks, Florida cops say

Owners fall through frozen lake trying to rescue dog stuck on ice, Vermont rescuers say
Virginia State Police say a man jumped from the James River Bridge to avoid being arrested Monday morning.

A spokesperson for state police said 29-year-old Kelly Golden, of Suffolk, was recklessly driving a black sedan and hit another vehicle just before 9 a.m. Two other vehicles were also damaged as a result of the crash. Golden was wanted for a felony probation violation. Police say he saw state police and jumped off the south side of the bridge into the James River to avoid apprehension.

Authorities say Golden drifted north on the river until a civilian vessel was able to pull him out of the water to safety. He was taken to the hospital.

State police will investigate the crash, and Newport News police are standing by to arrest Golden when he is released.

Eliza Noe, eliza.noe@virginiamedia.com
A 38-year-old man in Idaho was sentenced to federal prison after being accused of fatally shooting a man and burning his body in 2018, federal officials said.

Rydon Clyde Teton told Fort Hall police that he shot the man over an argument about a stolen debit card, according to court documents.

In February 2018, Fort Hall officers and Fort Hall fire personnel were called on reports of a house fire on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, according to a Jan. 19 news release by the U.S. Attorneys Office.

The people that called 911 saw the fire and went inside the home to investigate, officials said. They found a dead, burned body and moved it to the porch.

When police arrived they put out the fire and determined the dead man had been shot several times days earlier.

After investigating, police identified their suspect as Teton, who had been seen with a gun, officials said.

During his interview with FBI agents and Fort Hall officers, Teton said he believed the victim had stolen his debit card. The two men fought until he had the idea to shoot, officials said.

He also told police he later burned the body, federal officials said.

Teton pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and use of a firearm in a violent crime, officials said.

Along with his over 21-year sentence, Teton was ordered to pay a restitution of about $68,000 to the victims child for the victims funeral and for his lost tribal income, officials said.

Fort Hall is about 240 miles east of Boise.

12 years after man shot dead, docuseries helps solve cold case, California cops say

Man kills co-worker with hammer because he messed with his stuff, Utah officials say

Woman calls 911 when she sees bloody mom on home security camera after assault, feds say
A husband and wife lured the mans cousin to the U.S. by promising to help enroll him in college  then, instead, forced him to work at a gas station for years, federal prosecutors said.

After the minor arrived in Virginia from India, Harmanpreet Singh and Kulbir Kaur confiscated his immigration documents and immediately put him to work, the Justice Department said in a Jan. 22 news release.

They forced him to work long hours at the Lovely Market, a gas station and convenience store owned by Singh in North Chesterfield, for little pay from March 2018 through May 2021, according to court documents.

When the cousin confronted the couple about his poor working conditions or expressed his desire to enroll in school, Singh became violent, a trial brief says.

Singh slapped, kicked and pulled his cousins hair and repeatedly threatened to kill him, according to the trial brief.

Singh also threatened his cousin with a revolver when the victim tried to take a day off work or leave, prosecutors said.

The couple continued to lie to the cousin with false promises to help enroll him in school to make him more likely to stay and more vulnerable to their coercion, according to the trial brief.

A federal jury convicted Singh, 30, and Kaur, 43, who are both from the Richmond area, of forced labor, conspiracy to commit forced labor, harboring for financial gain and document servitude on Jan. 19, the Justice Department said.

The verdicts were returned after a two-week trial, according to prosecutors.

Defense attorneys representing Singh, Atchuthan Sriskandarajah and Matthew Greene, told McClatchy News in a joint statement on Jan. 22 that their client respects the hard work of the jury but he does strongly disagree with their verdict.

At this point, Mr. Singh looks forward to aggressively exploring his post-conviction options including an appeal, Sriskandarajah and Greene said.

Kaurs defense attorney Ali Amirshahi said Kaur pleaded not guilty in the case and intends to appeal the jurys verdict.

Ms. Kaur is disappointed that the jury convicted her even though the evidence clearly demonstrated she did not own or run the business in question, Amirshahi said in a statement to McClatchy News on Jan. 22.

Singh and Kaur are both accused of threatening the victim with physical abuse to keep him working at the gas station and prevent him from leaving, according to the trial brief.

He was forced to work as a cashier, prepare food, clean the store and manage store records, prosecutors said.

On some occasions, the couple made him sleep in a back office of the store for several days, according to the Justice Department. Theyre accused of surveilling him at the store and in their home.

Singh and Kaur also restricted his access to food and medical care, prosecutors said.

Despite his requests, the couple didnt allow him to return to India and forced him to overstay his visa, according to the Justice Department.

These defendants engaged in an egregious bait-and-switch, luring the victim with false promises of an education in the United States and instead subjecting him to grueling hours, degrading living conditions and a litany of mental and physical abuse, U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber, of the Eastern District of Virginia, said in a statement.

Forced labor and human trafficking are abhorrent crimes that have no place in our society, and I am grateful to our team of prosecutors, agents and support staff for ensuring that justice was done in this case, Aber said.

Singh and Kaur are scheduled to be sentenced May 8, according to prosecutors.

They face up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and must pay mandatory restitution for the charge of forced labor, the Justice Department said.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The Memphis Police Department is looking for two men accused of a shooting and robbery at an apartment complex near Winchester Road last week.

On January 17 at 11:15 a.m., officers say they responded to Delta Medical Center on Getwell Road regarding a victim who arrived shot. The victim was then taken to Regional One Hospital in critical condition.

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According to Memphis Police, it all started at River City Heights Apartments on Metropolitan Lane. The victim reportedly got dropped off in front of the apartments to pay an acquaintance $40 that he owed him.

That is when two men approached the victim. One of the men grabbed the victim and started tussling with him.

MPD says the victim fought off the suspects after they took $600 from his pocket. Afterwards, the victim was shot in the leg, according to reports.

The two suspects left the scene going toward the back of the apartments.

No arrests have been made at this time, but this is still 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.
A man who pleaded guilty to a 2021 fatal shooting in Alexandria was sentenced to 25 years in prison on Monday.

A man who pleaded guilty to a 2021 fatal shooting in Alexandria was sentenced to 25 years in prison on Monday.

Joshua Trevon Simon Sr., 27, pleaded guilty on Nov. 27 to reduced felony charges of manslaughter and attempted manslaughter for a shooting on Feb. 12, 2021, in the 1800 block of Harvard Street.

Killed in the shooting was Dereck Darnell Taylor Jr., 27. Another man was wounded, but recovered and was present for Simon's sentencing before 9th Judicial District Court Judge Patricia Koch.

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Simon had been charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.

In addition to the 25-year sentence, Koch sentenced Simon to 12.5 years for attempted manslaughter. The sentences are to be served concurrently, as well as without the benefit of suspension of sentence, probation or parole.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Joshua Simon gets 25 years in 2021 Alexandria murder of Dereck Taylor
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Montgomery County Department of Police (MCPD) said a man was stabbed near the parking lot area of the Greene Turtle.

MCPD said it responded to the 18100 block of Town Center Drive at about 12:30 a.m., for the report of a stabbing.

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Police said a man was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

MCPD said this was a domestic-related incident.

There are no suspects in custody.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
A 65-year-old man was found guilty after being accused of sexually assaulting girls in New Mexico, federal officials said.

Between January 2016 and January 2020, Joel Ruiz, of Dulce, is accused of using candy to lure girls younger than 12 into his trailer to sexually assault them, according to a Jan. 20 news release by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Mexico.

One girl told the jury during her testimony that Ruiz had sexually abused her when she was 6 or 7 years old, federal officials said.

The sexual assault happened on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation, but the girl and Ruiz are not registered tribal members, officials said.

Another girl told the jury Ruiz abused her when she was 3 or 4 years old, officials said. Both girls said Ruiz used candy to lure them and detailed the same type of abuse to the jury, according to the release.

The jury found him guilty of aggravated sexual abuse, prosecutors said.

McClatchy News reached out to Ruizs lawyer on Jan. 22 for a statement and was awaiting a response.

Ruiz is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years to life in prison, the release said. He does not yet have a sentencing date.

Jicarilla is about 140 miles southeast of Albuquerque.

If you have experienced sexual assault and need someone to talk to, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline for support at 1-800-656-4673 or visit the hotline's online chatroom.

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Los Angeles Times Managing Editor Sara Yasin resigned Monday amid the turmoil gripping the newsroom in advance of deep staff cuts that are looming.

Yasins departure comes a little more than a week after Executive Editor Kevin Merida abruptly left, citing differences with the paper's owner, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. The owner has ordered extensive staff cuts to trim the tens of millions of dollars in losses that he and his family have absorbed since buying The Times nearly six years ago.

Another top editor, Shani Hilton, stepped down last week, bringing to three the number of top editors who have exited during a stormy period at The Times. Merida and Hilton were The Times' two highest-ranking Black editors.

Yasin, in a note to staff members, cited professional and personal decisions for her decision to leave.

The short version: Id like to do something different, Yasin wrote Monday. "Ive spent the last several years as a newsroom leader, which has allowed me to put my management and problem-solving skills to use but I miss being closer to storytelling.

Her exit comes as 10 Democratic members of Congress sent a letter to Soon-Shiong and Media Guild of the West President Matt Pearce, imploring the two sides to find less devastating ways to handle the staff cuts that could see the largest newsroom in the western U.S. shrink by more than 20%. The letter comes after a one-day strike on Friday by the newsroom union.

Read more: L.A. Times Executive Editor Kevin Merida to step down

The Times has faced heavy financial losses as print subscribers dwindle and advertisers migrate to other online platforms to reach consumers. The Times lost about $40 million last year, according to knowledgeable sources who were not authorized to speak publicly.

A spokeswoman for The Times has not confirmed the extent of the losses covered by the Soon-Shiong family, instead saying the number was in the "tens of millions."

"We are concerned about reports of potential layoffs facing the LA Times newsroom and the impact this will have on all Angelenos, the availability of essential news and the strength of our democracy at large," wrote the California Democrats, including Reps. Jimmy Gomez of Los Angeles, Pete Aguilar of Redlands, Judy Chu of Monterey Park, Ted Lieu of Torrance, Robert Garcia of Long Beach and Adam B. Schiff of Burbank.

"As we approach upcoming elections, the role of news outlets in providing accurate and unbiased information becomes even more vital. Our community relies on the newspaper to stay informed about local and national events, and a reduction in reporters could have a detrimental impact on the quality of reporting," the lawmakers wrote. "Preserving democracy is contingent upon a free and robust press, and the LA Times has been instrumental in upholding this democratic principle."

In response, Soon-Shiong highlighted his efforts since 2018 to hire dozens of journalists and support staff to bolster the publication that has served California for 141 years.

"Weve put hundreds of millions of dollars  approaching $1 billion  over the past five years into the L.A. Times, and we are committed to continuing to invest while we work to get the paper on a path to sustainability," Soon-Shiong wrote.

"Much of our investment has gone toward newsgathering, in maintaining the newsroom staff, and in establishing a modernized infrastructure," he wrote, underscoring that his family's motivation has been "preserving a civic institution ... in recognition of the essential role an independent press plays in a democracy."

Lawmakers can also play an important role, Soon-Shiong noted.

He pointed to legislation, adopted by Canadian and Australian governments, that requires technology giants including Google and Facebook to pay news publishers when they distribute their news articles on their online platforms. Google and Facebook rake in billions of dollars in advertising revenue as the dollars to local outlets are vanishing.

But such legislation has stalled in Congress.

"Id like to put the question to [lawmakers]: What can they do to help preserve a free and robust press, one that is instrumental in upholding our democracy?" Soon-Shiong wrote. "All we are asking for is the opportunity for our newspaper and hardworking journalists to be fairly compensated, and for the L.A. Times to have a fair chance to become a self-sustaining institution."

Read more: Patrick Soon-Shiong  immigrant, doctor, billionaire, and soon, newspaper owner  starts a new era at the L.A. Times

Soon-Shiong has pledged to continue to invest in the paper and cover millions of dollars in losses that are projected for this year.

More than 350 staff members  or about 90% of the Guild-covered journalists  refused to work Friday to protest the pending cuts and management's bid to relax job protections based on seniority. The newsroom has been bracing for more than 100 layoffs, or about 20% of the newsroom, since Merida's departure.

Last week, the paper's management approached the guild's bargaining committee, seeking what managers described as one-time modifications to the union contract that protects more senior staff members from layoffs. Soon-Shiong and other managers wanted flexibility to pull from a pool of more veteran staffers rather than force out the most recent hires, many who are diverse. The proposal was rejected by the union, though the two sides are expected this week to discuss the situation.

Read more: The Times' reckoning on race and our commitment to meaningful change

The L.A. Times historically has struggled to diversify its staff to better reflect such a diverse region as California. A round of layoffs in the summer, which included dozens of journalists of color, was a setback to those efforts. The newsroom was cut by 13% then.

Hilton, who'd been at the paper for four years, told staff members last week that she had been planning to leave even before Merida's departure. She oversaw L.A. Times Studios, which was hard hit by a round of layoffs in December.

Yasin joined The Times nearly two years ago. In her role as managing editor, she was the newsroom's day-to-day manager.

Yasin previously served as managing editor of BuzzFeed News, where she worked to build new audiences for that outlet's journalism. Buzzfeed News shuttered last year, as digital media outlets struggle to maintain audiences.

Read more: Los Angeles Times Names Sara Yasin Managing Editor

Yasin was one of the nation's highest-ranking Palestinian American journalists.

She faced increased scrutiny as news organizations scrambled to respond to the contentious divide over how best to cover Israel's bombing of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip in the wake of the Oct. 7 cross-border attack by Hamas militants that killed at least 1,200 people and saw about 250 others taken as hostages, as well as the plight of people in Gaza, where more than 25,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Like many outlets, the Los Angeles Times struggled internally with the issue. In late October, about three dozen journalists with The Times signed an open letter that bashed Israel for its treatment of Palestinians along with the heavy death toll of Palestinian journalists covering the war.

Yasin did not sign the letter but, in meetings among top editors she expressed empathy for the journalists who signed the letter.

Merida swiftly removed the staff members who signed the letter from the paper's coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, citing the paper's ethics policy that forbids staffers to take a political stand.

Yasin supported Merida's decision, which faced pushback from some staff members, community groups that support Palestinians and even members of the Soon-Shiong family.

Patrick Soon-Shiong later expressed disappointment with how the matter was handled, saying he wished that Merida had told him about the actions to remove the journalists from coverage in advance.

Yasin said her decision to leave was "completely unrelated" to the dispute over the letter.

She was raised in North Carolina, but some members of her extended family remain in the Middle East.

Read more: L.A. Times Guild calls for one-day strike to protest looming staff cuts

In her note, Yasin thanked Merida for bringing her to The Times.

"Im grateful to Kevin for giving me this opportunity, and to all of you who welcomed me here and helped me adapt to this city and the L.A. Times," Yasin wrote. " Its been an honor to be a part of a newsroom filled with so much talent and heart. Ive learned so much and I know that no matter what I do next, my service at The Times will be an essential part of my career."

Monday was her last day at the paper.

Two ranking editors at The Times  Julia Turner and Scott Kraft  will oversee the newsroom until an interim editor is named.

"Scott and I are now responsible for all editorial operations, and were advocating for editorial interests in conversations with the company about the financial crisis we face," Turner wrote in a memo to the staff.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(FOX40.COM)  A four-decade-old Sacramento mainstay will soon be closing its doors for good.

The Mandarin Restaurant in Sacramento will no longer be in business amid the death of the owners mother, who founded the establishment. She died on Christmas.

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Really sad to see this restaurant close, said long-time patron, Veronica Sukkary. Ive been coming here for over 25 years and weve always sat at that table right there my kids were little. And now theyre adults.

Others said they will miss The Mandarin Restaurant.

Theres so many people, like a whole family out here, said a 16-year former employee and friend, Lance Coomes. A lot of memories, that will always be cherished.

The Mandarin Restaurant is located on the corner of Arden Way and Eastern Avenue. Its scheduled to close on Tuesday.

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My heart is broken, said Michael Helmrich, owner of The Mandarin. It was so hard.

Helmrichs parents, Steve and Kay Lee Helmrich, opened The Mandarin on Jan. 21, 1984. He said family recipes and experience working for some of the best in Sacramento, like Frank Fat, helped make The Mandarin so special.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Helmrich said things changed. It caused the business to suffer many hardships. Before COVID-19, the restaurant had 21 employees, but after, it was left with just seven. The Mandarin Restaurant wasnt able to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic.

I made it -well, I thought I made it through, you know. It was just it was horrible, Helmrich said.

Helmrich said before his mothers death, she was living with him, his wife Jennifer, and their four children. He said his wife cared for her while he continued to operate the business.

Its just a lot going on. And with the business and losing my mom, He said while fighting back tears.

Helmich said hes not sure what the future will look like, but he had no regrets; Just a grateful heart.

People close to the Helmrich family created a GoFundMe to help support them amid the closure of The Mandarin Restaurant.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
An enlarged image of a microscopic tardigrade. These invertebrates are considered close relatives of arthropods and are found in a variety of habitats around the world.

Tardigrades are some of the toughest animals on the planet . These microscopic creatures commonly called water bears can survive in environments with extreme temperatures , without water or oxygen. Scientists may have pinpointed the precise molecular mechanism the tiny invertebrates use to put up with such intense conditions. They have a molecular sensor that detects uninhabitable elements of their environment, and tells them when to go dormant and when to resume their normal activities. The findings are described in a study published January 17 in the open-access journal PLOS ONE .

[Related: Tardigrades go where the slime takes them .]

What is a tardigrade?

There are more than 1,100 species of tardigrade . These free-living invertebrates are considered close relatives of arthropods. They are about 0.04 inch or less in size and live in a variety of habitats. They are found on flowering plants, in moss, sand, fresh water, and the ocean.

Most plant-eating tardigrades pierce individual plant cells with their stylets and suck out the cell's contents for sustenance. Some are predatory carnivores that eat other small invertebrates .

German zoologist J.A.E. Goeze saw tardigrades through a microscope in 1773 and recorded that its body looked like a shriveled and shrunken version of a bear. He named it kleiner Wasserbar , or German for little water bear.

How do they survive extreme environments?

When faced with dry, barren, and otherwise inhospitable environments, tardigrades go dormant and enter a tun state . Their eight legs retract, their bodies become dehydrated, and their metabolism slows down so much that it is almost undetectable. They curl up into a ball. They can remain in this state for years. Previously, scientists werent sure what signals water bears to enter or leave their death-like state where they don't require nutrients.

In this new study , researchers exposed the tardigrades to temperatures of -112 degrees Fahrenheit or high levels of hydrogen peroxide, salt, or sugar to trigger dormancy in a lab. Their cells produced damaging oxygen free radicals in response to these harmful conditions. The free radicals will react with other molecules, but they will also oxidize an amino acid called cysteine . It is one of the building blocks of proteins in the body and the reactions make the proteins change their function and structure, and signal the water bear to go into its dormant state. The cysteine allows them to feel out their environments and react to stressors.

Tardigrade observed using a confocal fluorescent microscope. The tardigrade was overexposed to 5-MF, a cysteine selective fluorescent probe, that allows for visualization of internal organs. CREDIT: Smythers et al., 2024, PLOS ONE, CC-BY 4.0

When the conditions improve and the free radicals are gone, the sensor is no longer oxidized. The tardigrades then remerge from their dormancy. The team also applied chemicals that block cysteine to their environment and found that the water bears couldnt detect the free radicals and did not go dormant.

According to the team, these results show that cysteine is a key sensor for switching dormancy on and off in response to multiple stressors. It suggests that cysteine oxidation is a vital mechanism that water bears use to help them survive in constantly changing environments.

[Related: Weve seen how tardigrades walk, and its mesmerizing .]

"Our work reveals that tardigrade survival to stress conditions is dependent on reversible cysteine oxidation, through which reactive oxygen species serve as a sensor to enable tardigrades to respond to external changes, the authors wrote in a statement.

Can this help humans?

Future studies into this mechanism could determine if this happens across all tardigrade species. Since free radicals may be linked to age-related ailments , more studies of tardigrades could help scientists better understand aging.

Whether this is a universally conserved protection mechanism and whether this is conserved across tardigrade species are really important questions, study co-author Leslie Hicks from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill told New Scientist . The answers may help us better understand the aging process and even how to achieve long-term space travel, she says.
Financially strapped New York City residents could have their medical debt paid off in full under a new program unveiled Monday by Mayor Adams, who said the initiative will clear away a total of $2 billion of medical debt for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.

Medical debt impacts so many New Yorkers, Adams said during his announcement in the City Hall rotunda. After your care, the last thing you should be worried about is being handed a bill that is beyond your ability to pay.

To accomplish the goal of helping alleviate that burden, the city is partnering with the non-profit RIP Medical Debt, which will receive $18 million in city funding to pay down $2 billion in unpaid hospital bills. Adams said the effort will unfold over the next three years.

RIP Medical Debt is a non-profit that primarily receives funding through charitable donations and specializes in negotiating debt payments. According to its president, Allison Sesso, medical providers are motivated to reduce the debt burden on some of their patients because its unlikely many of those bills will ever be fully paid. As a result, the debt isnt necessarily worth whats on the bill when it comes to the marketplace of selling debt to other potential collectors.

There is a for-profit debt market that prices debt very low, and in order for for-profits to make money, they have to make the cost of that debt very, very low in order to make money back, she said. Frankly, the people that owe the debt cant pay it. So were taking advantage of that pricing.

Conveniently, for patients who could see their medical debt burden eliminated, theres no application process or other bureaucracy to contend with, Sesso added.

She said the patients most in need are identified by using medical provider records as well as other data the non-profit purchases, which allows it to determine eligibility. A patient is deemed eligible if they meet one of two criteria  their income is either at or below 400% of the federal poverty line, or their debt is 5% or more of their annual household income.

If a patient qualifies, the non-profit then simply pays off their bills.

We just run the analysis, she said. So were not just picking and choosing  its just purely based on income.

Drew Mehalek of Astoria saw his debt burden relieved through RIP Medical Debt as a college student.

Mehalek, whos now 28, was attending college in western Pennsylvania when he slipped on ice and hit his head on the curb. After being told medical treatment would be covered by his parents health insurance, he was hit with a bill for more than $1,000  way more than he could afford, or initially expected.

I could hardly stay ahead of expenses that were necessary to keep a roof over my head, he recalled at Adams City Hall press conference. The several letters and phone calls I received each month regarding my medical debt began to blend into background noise  Then one day I got a letter that looked a little bit different from the others  this time from a group called RIP Medical Debt.

Mehalek said he initially thought the missive was just part of an increasingly elaborate way by debt companies to contact me, but that he was ultimately proven wrong. His debt had been completely forgiven.

Its such an enormous relief, he said.

The citys new program intends to help people like Mehalek, but it will not extend into perpetuity. The debt relief will occur on a one-time basis, and the program will be administered in a partnership between RIP Medical Debt and the city Department of Health.

The $18 million outlay comes out of the citys budget at a time when the city itself is in poor financial health.

Adams has instituted a series of cuts, known as Programs to Eliminate the Gap, or PEGs, to balance the citys books, prompting questions Monday over whether the additional spending is wise right now. The mayor said he believes it is because it will help low income New Yorkers avoid falling into the citys safety net programs, which the city also pays for.

Eighteen-million [dollars] for $2 billion  thats the type of turn around you want, Adams said. Thats what you call smart fiscal management.

Aside from the $18 million, Adams and city officials said the city intends to raise more money to pay off city residents medical debts through RIP Medicals own fundraising operation and the non-profit Mayors Fund to Advance New York City. How much they expect to raise was not entirely clear on Monday, though.
Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said he has yet to pick a vendor for garbage collection to present to the Jackson City Council and continued to deny claims from council members that the council has a say in the selection process.

During last week's city council meeting, Lakesha Weathers, the city's solid waste supervisor, said a recommendation for garbage collection will be made either by the end of January or the first week of February. A panel of six in the city's Solid Waste Division reviews all vendors who respond to the RFP, then makes a recommendation to Lumumba. He will then take that recommendation to the council for final approval.

Speaking during a mayor's press conference Monday, Lumumba said he will pick the vendor the panel thinks is best for the city  something he said he has always done in previous garbage RFPs. He reiterated that his focus was on finding a vendor that would be at the lowest cost for residents.

"We've gone with Waste Management when it made sense, we went with FCC when they won and it made sense, and we were with Richard's when it made sense. Whoever comes out at the end of this RFP process as having the best price and being able to provide service for our residents, then that's who we're going to go with," the mayor said.

See more details on city's trash RFP: An RFP for trash collection has been issued by Jackson with some big changes. See details

Currently, the city is in a one-year emergency contract with Richard's Disposal that expires on March 31. Richard's is also suing the city, saying they were denied a long-term contract that kicked off the trash crisis in April 2023. That lawsuit is still pending.

Also during the council's meeting, Ward 6 Councilman and Council President Aaron Banks, as well as Ward 1 Councilman Ashby Foote and Ward 5 Councilman Vernon Hartley, urged collaboration between the city and the council on picking a vendor. Banks, who has been highly critical of the mayor for not including the council in decisions regarding the garbage contract, polled each council member at the meeting and asked if they have had any discussion with the city on choosing a vendor. Each council member responded that they haven't.

Lumumba took Monday's press conference as a chance to respond to Banks' poll:

"It is quite interesting that the question is about their participation in this (garbage) RFP when, one, that is not the role of the council," Lumumba said. "We do hundreds of RFPs each and every year and the council never participates in an RFP because that's not their role."

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The council's role, Lumumba said, is to either approve or disapprove the contract. The council has no say in the selection process, that is the job of the mayor.

This has been the question at the forefront of the trash crisis and one that led to a lawsuit between Lumumba and the city council last year. While the mayor continues to say he is the only one with power to enter the city into contracts, other council members contend it is the job of the "governing authority," which includes the council.

"You can't be both the one who enters the contract and the one who approves the contract. That defeats the basic premise of checks and balances in our government system," the mayor said, adding that Banks comments were a misrepresentation of how the RFP process works.

The mayor also defended one of the major provisions of the current RFP, which states that any new contract could be subject to termination depending on the outcome of the lawsuit between Richard's Disposal and the city. If the provision wasn't put in place, the mayor said, then the city would be stuck paying two separate garbage contracts.

Again, council members like Banks, Foote and Hartley have been critical. They believe the provision has inhibited other vendors from bidding for fear of losing the garbage contract if Richard's wins the lawsuit.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mayor continues search for garbage collection vendor. See his comments
Residential neighborhoods across Detroit saw an average property value increase of 23% in the last year, marking another year of rising values, Mayor Mike Duggan announced Monday.

Duggan began by sending praise to the Detroit Lions for winning Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers ahead of touting another one of Detroit's accomplishments: rising home appreciation values. Duggan said Detroit is one of the more rapidly growing home value markets nationally, surpassing Miami's growth, which is known for high property values. He added that the total value of all Detroit residential property value grew from $2.8 billion in 2017 to the present $8.7 billion.

"Every single neighborhood in the city of Detroit saw a significant increase in the home prices last year," Duggan said.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan

"For 16 straight months, Miami led the country. They're the hot city," Duggan said. "What everybody in (Washington) D.C. wanted to talk about was that in November, Detroit has displaced Miami and the statistic they used is, looking back to last year, whose property values increased the most in homeownership? Who would have ever thought we'd see the day that the value of homeowners in Detroit is exceeding the rest of America?"

Property value notices on the way, triggering appeals

Duggan was in Washington, D.C., last week for a meeting with the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Notices of property assessment changes will be mailed this week, if residents have not already received them, to more than 408,000 residential, commercial, industrial and personal property owners. The notices are not tax bills. Actual bills will be mailed in June and November from the city's treasury office. Property owners are advised to look at the section indicating whether their taxes will increase or decrease.

"The reason you're getting your notice in the mail is so that you can start an appeal process," Duggan said. "Detroit does something nobody else does. We give you two separate chances to appeal. We give you an early informal assessors appeal and then you get the formal Board of Review."

Proposed 2024 assessments are tentative until the end of the review period in March and potential changes from the Wayne County Assessment and Equalization Department in April.

CNBC reported that Detroit's homes are considered overvalued compared with household income levels. Rising property values could also mean rising rents, though Duggan proceeded to praise the city's recovery through initiatives to build more affordable housing, lower homicide rates, develop parks and beautify streetscapes.

"If you bought your house 15 years ago, and it is tripled in value because of the recovery of Detroit  the value of your home looks pretty darn high compared to your income. Thats a good thing. That means we have Detroiters gaining wealth, not just in what they did in their working life, but in their homeownership," Duggan said.

Here's the property assessment appeal process

Residents will have three weeks to appeal assessments. The city extended the assessor review from Feb. 1-22. Alvin Horhn, deputy chief financial officer and chief assessor, encourages property owners to take advantage of their right to question how their property is valued during this time. Last year, 6,300 residents went to the assessor's review and 2,000 made it through the March board review, Horhn added.

Anyone with questions regarding their assessment can email the assessors office at AsktheAssessor@detroitmi.gov. Appeals can be submitted online, by mail or in person from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in the Detroit Taxpayer Service Center, suite No. 130.

Homeowners are protected against large tax increases due to state law imposing a 5% property tax cap. The cap allows some homeowners to be taxed at half of their assessed value, Duggan said. New this year are revamped assessment notices in accordance with the property tax reform ordinance that City Council passed last year. Notices are in a larger print with more information about the assessment appeals process.

Cullin Flynn moved to the city in 2020 with a goal of buying a house. He purchased his home a year later in Minock Park of Grandmont Rosedale and immersed himself in the neighborhood after a resident received a grant to fix up a lot nearby and sought his help. He later learned about more development grants to use for his neighborhood's advantage.

"It really opened my eyes. There's investment in this area," Flynn said. "I bought my home for $80,000. I thought, 'How is this possible? This is a beautiful two-story, Tudor-style, variegated brick, detached garage.' I'm happy here."

Rochelle Wright, who has lived in Detroit for 55 years in downtown and Core City, said she had an opportunity to become an owner of a Habitat for Humanity home. Blight was surrounding her and she debated living in Detroit. But a "small voice" in her head told her, "You can bring light to a blighted area," and she decided to stay, moving into her home in August 2005. The area was empty early on, she said, but the city came in and demolished blighted homes and cleaned up the area for residential development.

"Blight has been improving," Wright said. "There weren't any homes there. It just was land, but now there are plenty of homes there ... where there were four houses on the block, there's 12 now. So we have a neighborhood now."

Residents can appeal at www.detroitmi.gov/PropertyTaxAppeal between Feb. 1-22 by 4:30 p.m.

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com or 313-635-3491. Follow her: @DanaAfana.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Mayor Mike Duggan touts another year of rising Detroit property values
BRANCH COUNTY  A veteran local law enforcement officer announced she will run for county sheriff in the 2024 elections.

Sheriff candidate Robin Swartz

I have experience that counts and proven leadership. If elected, my goal is to renew pride in the sheriffs office and strengthen service to our community through training, accountability, consistency, and leadership," Robin Swartz said of her candidacy.

Swartz retired in 2016 after 29 years of service with the sheriffs department and 18 years as a road patrol sergeant.

Ralted story. Sheriff Pollack announces retirement after 12 years in office

She was captain of the Underwater Dive Recovery Team and a certified methamphetamine responder.

After retirement, she worked for two years with the Michigan Department of Corrections. Coldwater Police hired Swartz in 2018.

Swartz became a school resource officer assigned to Coldwater Community Schools for the last three years.

Swartz, 60, moved to Branch County as a teenager with her family when her father, Dale Swartz retired from the United States Marine Corps. A Coldwater High School graduate, she stayed and raised her family here.

Swartz said her integrity, 37 years of experience, and commitment to serving the community are ideal foundations for moving into the sheriffs position.

Mike Thyng, a retired Michigan State Police trooper and current deputy with the sheriff department, also announced for the race.

Subscribe Follow this and other stories. Subscribe to the Daily Reporter.

Sheriff John Pollack announced Thursday he will retire after three terms at the end of December.

-- Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: CPD school resource officer, former deputy announces for sheriff
Typically those in need of a room heavily outnumber those looking for a flatmate at the speed dating events - Rii Schroer

On a Sunday afternoon at a bar in Clapham, more than 150 women are anxiously waiting to meet their match.

Attendees are wearing blue and purple wristbands to indicate what they are looking for, as they sip on cocktails, dressed to impress.

This is a speed dating event  but the women are not looking for love. Instead they are hunting for a place to live.

With rents of more than 1,000 for a single room, nightmare housemates and tales of landlords who refuse to let to meat eaters or those who work from home, Londons rental market is a warzone.

The seemingly endless pool of candidates means that renters are often fighting tooth and nail  or tugging on the heartstrings  to have a chance of securing a place to live.

Entrepreneurial members of Generation Z are using social media and setting up events like these to set up young women looking for housemates.

Many are looking to avoid the lottery of using websites like SpareRoom and moving in with a stranger, which can be an uncomfortable process.

Mia Gomes and Rachel Moore, both 25, run an account called The Girlies Guide, which has nearly 40,000 followers on TikTok and 13,500 on Instagram.

They hold regular Find a housemate meet-ups across London and are planning to expand to Manchester, where they already host friend networking events.

Mia Gomes and Rachel Moore run Girlies Guide, a social media account that, among other things, helps women find roommates - Rii Schroer

Like at a traffic light party (red: taken, amber: complicated, green: single), the womens wristbands indicate if they are searching for a room (blue), or have a room to spare and are looking for a housemate (purple). There are far more blue wristbands than purple ones, meaning that those with a room to let can find themselves mobbed by enthusiastic prospective tenants.

The room is divided into geographical regions to help narrow the search, with renters huddling under a poster that marks where they would most like to live. The meetups make the process more comfortable for both lodgers and landlords, as they can meet for the first time on neutral territory.

Beth Wilkinson, 26, has lived in London for 10 years, and was looking for a new place to live because shed broken up with her boyfriend. She said she was finding the process very stressful and that going to an all-woman event made her feel much safer than using anonymous websites.

Some renters have sent hundreds of messages in search of a room, getting only a handful of responses. Melanie, 28, moved to London from Australia in late October. Since then she has lived in five flatshares, and said that the current situation was dire, having sent more than 150 messages to landlords. She said: I am sick of living out of a bag and packing every four to six weeks.

Ashleigh, 31, moved out of the capital a year ago, said that when she left, she had more than 600 inquiries about her room. Shes now looking to come back, and had travelled from Birmingham for the event. She described the process of finding somewhere to live as hell.

Precious Shihangule, 26, was one of the few who was sporting a purple wristband. She said she was looking for housemates, either to move elsewhere with new flatmates or let out the empty room in the place she was in.

Attendees at the Girlies Guide events divide themselves depending on where they want to live the most - Rii Schroer

One of the reasons we started it is because we have been on the receiving end of looking for a place to live and also looking for a housemate, said Ms Gomes. Its not a nice process, it is tedious, it is time-consuming, and to be honest when we were looking for a housemate we definitely made the wrong decision.

Ms Moore added: Girls are looking for places for six or seven months and trying to find housemates. A lot of the time things have been falling through for them, because its all online and you lose that personal touch.

The organisers, who charge 10 a ticket, dont know exactly how many housemates have been found through their events, but the repeat success shows that they are necessary.

As the women speed-dated for rooms, the attendees bonded over the shared experience of sending out viewing requests into the ether, terrible landlords, and creepy flatmates. Even if they do not find somewhere to live, and someone to live with, at the very least, they can have a good moan about it all.

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Paleontologists have historically used modern great white sharks as a stand-in model for reconstructing megalodon bodies. Now, scientists believe that the modern mako shark like this one might be a better model.

While the mighty megalodon (Otodus megalodon) went extinct about 3.6 million years ago, its grip on popular culture remains strong. However, the 'meg' may not have been as wide as scientists previously believed. A study published January 21 in the journal Palaeontologia Electronica proposes that the megalodon was likely more slender than other studies previously suggested. However, the revised anatomical theory for the underwater legend does not compromise its apex predator status.

[Related: Megalodons were likely warm-blooded, despite being stone-cold killers .]

The megalodon swam in the Earths oceans over 23 million years ago . While paleontologists have found many fossilized teeth, their bodies were mainly built from cartilage instead of bones. Cartilage is rarely preserved in the fossil record, making a full skeleton difficult if impossible to find. This has made the apex predators true size a decades-long paleontological mystery.

The new study is based on an incomplete set of fossil vertebrae at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences in Brussels, Belgium. Previous research estimated that this specific megalodon would have been 30.2 feet long and that some megalodons could grow to 50 to 65 feet long and could snack on animals as large as orca whales.

Paleontologists have historically used modern great white sharks as a stand-in model for reconstructing megalodon bodies. A 2022 study reconstructing the megalodon based on the same skeleton in Belgium proposed that the ancient shark relative was potentially a stocky and powerful fish that was built for bursts of speed similar to the modern great white shark. However, the new study casts doubts on its size estimate.

A team of 26 scientists from institutions around the world reexamined the megalodon vertebrae and compared them to living sharks. They now believe that the strength of the spinal column suggests that the megalodon would have had a more slender body shape than the great white great white. A shark as long as the megalodon would have been overly cumbersome if it had the more bulky shape of great white.

A dark grey silhouette depicting the previously reconstructed Otodus megalodon body form based largely on the modern white shark, superimposing a light grey outline showing the newly interpreted body form. Important note: The exact extent of body elongation, the shape of the head, and the outline and position of each fin remain unknown based on the present fossil record. CREDIT: DePaul University/Kenshu Shimada.

Our team reexamined the fossil record, and discovered the Megalodon was more slender and possibly even longer than we thought. Therefore, a better model might be the modern mako shark, study co-author and University of California, Riverside biologist Phillip Sternes said in a statement . It still would have been a formidable predator at the top of the ancient marine food chain, but it would have behaved differently based on this new understanding of its body.

Swansea University paleontologist Jack Cooper , a co-author of the 2022 study that this new paper casts some doubt on, stands by this teams original research. PopSci covered that study in August 2022 .

While alternative hypotheses should be and are welcomed in science, the proposal of this paper that megalodon may have been skinnier than previously suggested suffers from a circular logic. Its basis comes from a criticism of our work in using the great white shark as an ecological analogue to megalodon, which it argues we should not have done, Cooper told PopSci. However, not only does that criticism ignore that we account for multiple analogues (great white, shortfin mako, longfin mako, salmon shark, and porbeagle shark) when adjusting the model, but the elongated body interpretation entirely originates from a comparison to a great white shark. Their results are not surprising though, in our 2020 paper , we tested an alternative model using only the great white shark and it indeed resulted in a slenderer model (a megalodon with an elongated body). Importantly, the elongated body interpretation is based on a single observation, a comparison with a single analogue, and lacks statistical tests. More critically, several aspects of the study are impossible for future researchers to verify or replicate as the authors do not provide the raw data.

Discoveries happen by testing and retesting older hypotheses based on new data or findings, so refuting old evidence does not make an old study incorrect. It typically builds upon it. Since finding a complete megalodon skeleton may be impossible, this debate will likely continue. Sci-fi fans and scientists alike will have gaps to fill in the megalodons story and its life stalking ancient seas.

[Related: This whale fossil could reveal evidence of a 15-million-year-old megalodon attack .]

A different understanding of the megalodons body type could help inform how these giant extinct sharks impact the evolution and ecology of the ecosystems that shaped the present-day oceans. The team behind this most recent study believes that it may have had a longer digestive canal, which would have enhanced their absorption of nutrients, so they would not have to eat quite as often as previously believed.

With increased ability to digest its food, it could have gone for longer without needing to hunt. This means less predation pressure on other marine creatures, Sternes said. If I only have to eat one whale every so often, whale populations would remain more stable over time.

Some shark scientists have theorized that a natural decrease in prey coinciding with the emergence of the great white shark led to the extinction of megalodon. Others proposed that the same warm-blooded biology that likely fueled their massive size made them particularly sensitive to environmental changes.

Despite the major scientific advancement in our new study, the fact that we still dont know exactly how O. megalodon looked keeps our imagination going, study co-author and DePaul University paleobiologist Kenshu Shimada said in a statement. The continued mystery like this makes paleontology, the study of prehistoric life, a fascinating and exciting scientific field.

Update 01/22/24 3:36PM: This article has been updated in one instance to clarify that the new study proposes that the megalodon was "not as wide" as scientists originally believed instead of "not as large."
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Megalodons, the huge prehistoric sharks depicted in movies such as The Meg, had more slender bodies than was previously thought, according to a new study.

Many mysteries remain about the biology of megalodons, but until now, great white sharks had been used to model their appearance. But new research from a team led by Kenshu Shimada, a paleobiologist at DePaul University in Chicago, and Phillip Sternes, a doctoral candidate at the University of California at Riverside, suggests megalodons would have had skinnier bodies than great whites.

The Otodus megalodon lived more than 23 million years ago. Fossils of the extinct giant are hard to come by. While there are plenty of fossilized shark teeth, their bodies mainly consist of cartilage rather than bones, and are rarely preserved.

A diagram shows the previous and new schematic interpretations of the body form of Otodus megalodon. The dark grey silhouette depicts the previously reconstructed body form, based on the great white shark. The light-gray outline shows the newly interpreted body form, which is more elongated. - Kenshu Shimada/DePaul University

This new research is based on the reappraisal of an incomplete set of fossil vertebrae found in Belgium.

While previous research estimated that this particular megalodon would have measured 9.2 meters (30.2 feet) in length, Shimada and his coauthors say the individual would have in fact measured at least 11.1 meters (36.4 feet).

Shimada told CNN that the fossil vertebrae would not have been strong enough to support a shark of this length if it had the same body shape as a great white.

If the body form of the great white shark is directly applied to the vertebral column, the diameter of the vertebrae would then be unrealistically small for the shark to be able to support its body, he said.

Shimada explained that a vertebral column of this diameter would not provide sufficient support for the muscles of a body shape like that of a great white, and would also increase the risk of spinal cord injuries.

This is particularly important considering that shark skeletons are not as strong as bones because they are cartilaginous (made of cartilage), he added.

He did note, however, that some shark species, including megalodon, exhibit some strengthening of this cartilage through calcification, or a build-up of calcium that can then harden.

The new study considers the size proportion between the vertebrae and body in a more biologically realistic manner, which would indicate a leaner body at least compared to the modern great white shark, he said.

The research suggests that the modern great white shark may not necessarily serve as a good modern analog for assessing at least certain aspects of megalodon biology, said Shimada.

There are still many misconceptions or unanswered questions about the biology of megalodon, and we would like to continue to scientifically correct or elucidate them based on the fossil record, he said.

As things stand, there is only a partial fossil record for the megalodon, and Shimada hopes a complete skeleton will be discovered someday.

The study was published Sunday in the journal Palaeontologia Electronica.

Previous research published in August 2022 estimated the megalodon would have been able to devour prey the size of orca whales  which can be up to 26 feet long and weigh more than 8,000 pounds  in just five bites.

The megalodon went extinct around 3.6 million years ago, according to the United Kingdoms Natural History Museum, for reasons scientists are still trying to understand.

One theory is that their demise was linked to the fact that they were warm-blooded.

Previous research by Shimada and others concluded that being warm-blooded may have been one of the key drivers fueling megalodons massive size and overall prowess as predators, but it also made them sensitive to environmental changes.

The fact that megalodon disappeared suggests the likely vulnerability of being warm-blooded because warm-bloodedness requires constant food intake to sustain high metabolism, Shimada told CNN in July last year.

Possibly, there was a shift in the marine ecosystem due to the climatic cooling, causing the sea level to drop, altering the habitats of the populations of the types of food megalodon fed on such as marine mammals and leading to its extinction.

CNNs Amaya McDonald and Zoe Sottile contributed to this report.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Memphis firefighter is charged with attempted murder after he allegedly got into a fight and shot at a man in Walmart.

On January 19, Memphis Police responded to a call at the Walmart on Shelby Drive. A security guard told them that two men had gotten into a fight inside the store.

During the fight, police say Spencer Hamilton made several threats, stating that he was going to kill the other man.

The security guard broke up the fight and walked the other man outside. Hamilton reportedly ran past them both to get to his car and grab a gun. The victim took cover once he saw the weapon.

Hamilton searched for the victim and found him running across the parking lot; he then fired a shot at him.

Armed Memphis man arrested for allegedly fighting Tipton County deputies

MPD says Hamilton went back inside the store and told others Yall wait here. Im about to kill this [expletive].

Both men were taken into custody for questioning. The victim identified Hamilton in a lineup.

Spencer Hamilton is charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder and Possession of a Firearm. He is set to appear in court Monday.

According to the Memphis Fire Department, Hamilton has been relieved of duty pending an investigation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
To be a Muslim in an increasingly militant Hindu India is to feel alienated and dejected. There may be 200 million of us, but Muslims are being made invisible in India today. Its not safe to be a Muslim in parts of North India, and certainly not safe to look like one in several others.

Only one conversation dominates village chaupals and city squares these days. It is the loud, triumphant announcement of the Ram Temple consecration, the Pran Pratishtha, or establishment of life force, of the Hindu deity on Jan. 22 in Ayodhya, at the exact same spot where the Babri Masjid stood from 1527 to 1992 when it was brought down, brick-by-brick, by karsevaks, or faith volunteers, drunk on hardcore Hindutva. The policemen and the State stood aside as the mosque was reduced to rubble. More than 2,000 people died, most of them Muslim, in communal riots in various cities in the days that followed. It was never restored, though the Supreme Court in its 2019 judgment called the demolition an egregious violation of the rule of law.

Now a grand temple dedicated to Lord Ram is being readied atop the ruins of the mosque. Hindu nationalists have justified this based on the shaky claim the Hindu god was born there, and that Muslims had destroyed an earlier Hindu temple when the Mughals ruled much of India from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Read More: India's Ayodhya Temple Is a Huge Monument to Hindu Supremacy

In the weeks leading up the Ram Temple inauguration, calls like Jab Mulle kate jayenge, Jai Shri Ram chillayenge, When Muslims are killed, they will call out Victory to Ram, are being heard.

Within Indias government, there is nobody to speak for Muslims. For the first time since Independence in 1947, there is no Muslim cabinet minister or even a Member of Parliament in the ruling party. There is not a single Muslim Chief Minister in any of Indias 28 states, and Uttar Pradesh, where Ayodhya is located, is ruled by a saffron-clad Hindu monk who does not extend even polite Eid greetings from his social media handle.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, center, with Governor Anandiben Patel welcome artists dressed up as Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshman during Diya Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya on Nov. 11, 2023. Deepak GuptaHindustan Times/Getty Images

In recent weeks, a new fear, palpable albeit defying definition, can be perceived among Muslims across Delhi and the states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh in north and central India. Everywhere there is a saffron surge and in-your-face aggression of Lord Rams devotees. In Delhi, a long motor and bike rally with beaming worshippers was interspersed with cries of Jai Shri Ram as they made their way past the medieval India Ghata Masjid, just a few feet off the historic Jama Masjid. The afternoon Muslim call for prayer was lost in the din of Jai Shri Ram by triumphant saffron-clad Hindu devotees atop bikes, trucks, and jeeps.

The more upscale Khan Market was similarly awash with saffron bunting and Ram dhun, or devotional song, beamed from a public speaker when I visited. Attendance at the neighboring Pandara Road mosque was reduced to a trickle, with worshippers preferring to pray in their homes.

Elsewhere too, this unique brand of aggressive Hindutva in cities, towns, and villages across northern India compelled Muslims to stay home. In Uttarakhand's Dehradun, imagery of Lord Ram draped over the old Clock Tower from top to bottom. It is the same state where Xs were made outside Muslim shops in Purola township. Many moved out due to fear. Some returned, but others didnt.

People look out of a balcony as a procession celebrating the upcoming Hindu Ram Temple in the northern town of Ayodhya passes by in the old quarters of Delhi, Jan. 16. Anushree FadnavisReuters

In western Uttar Pradeshs Meerut, small traders and businessmen were putting travel plans on hold while I was in the city in early January. Many canceled their train bookings on the advice of family elders. Weddings stood postponed or celebrations minimized.

In the upmarket Gurugram and Noida, satellite townships near Delhi where I live, a display of swords, paintings of a muscular Lord Ram, and celebrations leading up to the deity's consecration have been driving Muslim residents into their private spaces. The usual salutations of Namaskar and Good Morning in the early hours of the day have given way to cries of Jai Shri Ram.

Meanwhile, Muslim students have been subjected to taunts. At times the excuse is their Muslim beef eating habits. Others its their Pakistani identity; in many a young mind in Prime Minister Narendra Modis India, an Indian Muslim is not an Indian, and doesnt belong here.

A woman Muslim journalist who went to Ayodhya to cover the temple consecration tells me she felt compelled to wear a Hindu bindi, and has considered coming back before the ceremony next week. It's this feeling of alienationeven fearthat is a Muslims constant companion. A Muslim today feels hemmed in and alone.

Indias Muslims have been going through a long and intimidating winter since Modi and his Hindu nationalists took power in 2014. When he attends the Ram Temple inauguration on Monday, the fear we have is that it only gets worse from here.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Excavators work on a deforested stretch of the Tren Maya railway line in the middle of the Mexican rainforest. Fernando Martinez Belmar/FMB/dpa

Speleologist - or cave expert - Roberto Rojo knows the jungle like his own backyard, but what he is currently seeing on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is unlike anything he's ever witnessed before.

A long, deforested swathe now cuts through the rainforest south of the popular holiday resort of Cancun on the tip of the southeastern peninsula. Thousands of large construction pillars penetrate the ground every 15 metres in anticipation of the Tren Maya, a new railway line being created to ferry millions of tourists from the Caribbean beaches through to various ancient Maya sites in the rainforest across the Yucatan Peninsula.

While the massive infrastructure project is hoped to bring a needed tourism boost to a relatively poor region of the country, environmental groups and indigenous communities have criticized the construction over what it could do to region's nature life.

The first section of the 1,554-kilometre train network was inaugurated in December, following three and a half years of construction.

"The Tren Maya will bring economic and social development to the south-east," said President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

But all that's currently visible to Rojo at the dusty construction site near Playa del Carmen, a resort on Mexico's Caribbean coast, is destruction. Lopez Obrador's megaproject cuts the rainforest in half and causing irreversible damage to the ecosystem, says the biologist and activist.

"Down there is the aquifer on which all the plants, animals and people in the region depend," says Rojo, referring to the underwater cave system in the area.

The Tren Maya will initially run between San Francisco de Campeche on the Gulf of Mexico and Cancun in the Caribbean. The route is 473 kilometres long and runs partly on a former railway line. By the end of February, the entire network with 34 stops in five states should be complete, including the most controversial sections through karst areas and rainforest.

Mexcio's Amazon rainforest

Elias Siebenborn, a German native who's been living in the region for 12 years and works as a travel guide, has been documenting the effects of the megaproject on the environment.

Equipped with a GPS device, he sets up in the middle of nowhere and sends off his drone over the dense vegetation until it comes across the railway line. "You can see it here," he says, pointing to the live image transmitted by the UAV: a kilometre-long track cuts through the previously untouched lush green.

The German has already documented 121 small, medium and large underground caves along the railway line between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, a city home to ancient Maya ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea - a major draw for tourists.

Underground rivers criss-cross the Yucatan Peninsula through the cave system all the way to the sea.

"I used to go into the rainforest to photograph birds," Siebenborn says. But when construction on the Tren Maya began, he started recording the damage caused by the project. "I would never have thought how extreme it was."

The Selva Maya stretching across Mexico, Guatemala and Belize is the largest rainforest area in the Americas after the Amazon, home to the ruins of the mighty Mayan city Chichen Itza.

The site will be among those connected by the new railway line, which will also include tracks for normal passenger and cargo trains.

Operated by the army

Manuel Andrew has high expectations for the Tren Maya. The 48-year-old works as a porter in a hotel near the future railway station in Cancun. "Communities that had fallen into oblivion will now experience a boost from tourism because the train will stop there," he says.

Local residents will benefit as they will be able to sell their crafts directly to tourists or work in the hotels, according to Andrew. "What else do the opponents of the train propose so that people can move forward? If they come up with another project that creates economic opportunities without harming the rainforest, I would also go along with it," he says.

Costs for the railway line, which is managed by the military, have tripled to 500 billion pesos ($29 billion) since construction began.

European companies are also involved in the project, with a subsidiary of German national railway operator Deutsche Bahn acting as a consulter, for example.

The Mexican armed forces meanwhile are building six hotels, including one located inside the Calakmul natural reserve which is also home to archaeological ruins as well as some of Mexico's last remaining jaguars. Communal land has been expropriated or bought up and the property business is booming.

No other country in the world has implemented a railway project of this size in such a short time, says Mexico's President Lopez Obrador. His critics agree with him on this point but stress that this has come at a cost for the environment: construction was carried out too quickly, with a lot of improvisation and without the obligatory environmental protection reports, says Aaron Hernandez from the Mexican Centre for Environmental Law (CEMDA) in Cancun.

When lawsuits against the Tren Maya started piling up, the left-wing nationalist president simply declared the project a matter of national security under the control of the military to prevent it from being stopped. The railway line has also led to divisions within communities, while human rights activists criticize the militarization of the region.

A new US border

In Merida, the capital of the economically up-and-coming state of Yucatan, the mood is buoyant as the city, which is on the first route of the train, gears up for more tourists. Street paving is being renewed, house facades are being repainted and new restaurants are being built. Yucatan, home to the country's remaining Mayan communities, is considered the safest state in Mexico.

However, the development plans are not limited to tourism. According to Governor Mauricio Vila, Yucatan is looking to become Mexico's "new border with the US" - in an economic sense. A harbour on the Gulf of Mexico is being expanded for the export of goods and new industrial parks are being built. Meanwhile, the Tren Maya rail network is linked to another project of the Lopez Obrador government - the industrial Interoceanic Corridor between the Pacific and the Atlantic.

Tren Maya is part of an economic plan that is being implemented at the expense of natural resources, local people and their culture, says activist Rojo in Playa del Carmen. "Some people think we live from tourism. But we live from nature, which attracts tourists. If we ignore nature, we will have neither tourism nor nature and therefore no income."

Holidaymakers stroll past souvenir shops on Quinta Avenida in the centre of Playa del Carmen, a popular Mexican resort on the Yucatan Peninsula. Andrea Sosa/dpa

Construction work for the Tren Maya in the rainforest near Playa del Carmen. Andrea Sosa/dpa

Aerial view of the track that cuts through the Mexican rainforest for the new Tren Maya railway line. Fernando Martinez Belmar/FMB/dpa

Sun loungers on the beach at the Mamita's resort in Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Andrea Sosa/dpa
The Miami-Dade police officers who were struck and injured during a shootout at a South Miami-Dade home last week tried talking the suspected gunman into surrendering as he had his shotgun pointed directly at them for several seconds, according to law enforcement sources.

The officers were close enough that one of them was able to see the shaft of weapon as the gunman hid behind a wall. Another officer, the sources said, had a clear shot, but held back from firing until fired upon. After repeated orders to lower his weapon, the gunman shot officers Mario Bianchi, 57 and Nikolas Infante, 35, the sources said.

South Florida Police Benevolent Association President Steadman Stahl blamed the delay in police discharging their weapons on new training methods.

There was a time that when you saw the gun, youd begin shooting. Now officers are trained to try and de-escalate. Its causing me concern that officers are taking the time to second-guess themselves, Stahl said. No officer wants to take someones life. Clearly, he gave them no choice and started firing away at them.

Suspected gunman Christopher Lynn Bailey, 52, was shot and killed on site. The officers were struck in the arm and upper body with quarter-inch round balls of buckshot, larger than pellets. Infante was released after a short hospital stay. But Bianchi, sources said, remains hospitalized as a piece of the buckshot is lodged near an artery in his upper body.

Hes in great spirits. He was hoping to get out but suffered a medical setback, Stahl said, adding that the officers protective vests likely saved them from more harm, even death. A female officer on the scene was also taken to the hospital for observation after the shooting. Its not believed she was shot.

Suspected gunman had history of squatting

Almost a week after the shooting, its still not clear which officers fired at Bailey, a suspected squatter with convictions about two decades ago for aggravated assault on a pregnant woman and a gun violation charge.

Police said the fatal standoff with Bailey was during an attempt to remove the squatter from the property. It also came just a month after he was evicted from a Hialeah apartment in which the landlord said Bailey forcibly and unlawfully entered the apartment after being told to leave.

In late September, Bailey was accused of refusing to leave a unit at Les Monttellier Apartments, 850 West 49th Street, after the person paying the rent died. The complaint to remove Bailey said he told Gator Hialeah, which owns the apartment complex, that he was the only caretaker for the renter. But since he wasnt on the lease, a judge ordered him evicted.

He stayed there for three months until Miami-Dade police removed him on Dec. 20, court records show. A spokesperson for Gator Hialeah said when police arrived, Bailey walked out calmly.

Shooting sparked during attempted removal of squatter

Police said that on Jan. 17, the day Bailey was killed, they were called by the property owner at 22291 SW 162nd Ave. just before 11 p.m. The caller was concerned with squatters who had taken over his property. Police found Bailey in a small apartment off to the side of the main house on the property.

A radio transmission from a website called Broadcastify, which picks up police dispatch conversations, said one of the cops said, The squatter was armed with a shotgun pointing at us. After the shooting, another team of officers was requested to help get the injured out of the home.

I need a contact team to stand by... with their helmets and a shield if they have it, an officer told dispatch. We are going to go in as a convoy to rescue them. Then, an officer is heard saying, Get the three officers in a car and take them to the hospital right now.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting.
The Miami Herald on Sunday didnt hold back as it bid a not-so-fond farewell to Ron DeSantis 2024 presidential hopes after he dropped out of the race and endorsed Donald Trump.

The newspapers editorial board wrote that DeSantis was supposed to be the candidate that saved the Republican party from the former president.

Its not just that he was steamrolled by Donald Trump, the newspaper wrote. 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.

But while DeSantis campaign may be over, the damage he has done to Florida remains:

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.

The newspaper said DeSantis couldve made a play for a more reasonable form of conservatism to appeal to a broader range of Americans.

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, the newspaper said.

Read the full editorial here.
A Michigan couple wanted to start a "green" cemetery, a place where the dead can be buried in a more natural and environmentally friendly manner. Local officials didn't want thatso they banned all cemeteries within the township.

Instead of pumping bodies full of preservatives like formaldehyde and burying them in wood-and-metal caskets or concrete vaults, green burials involve placing the deceased directly into the ground to decompose naturally into the soil, often in biodegradable wood caskets or cotton shrouds.

Peter Quakenbush tells Reason that he learned about the process while working in wildlife management. "I've always been interested in biology and nature, and I have a few degrees in biology," he says. The idea of preserving a natural green space while simultaneously providing people an environmentally friendly place to be buriedwhich would, in turn, provide natural nourishment for the foreststruck him as "a really wonderful kind of win-win combo."

Peter and his wife Annica set about to make the dream a reality. After years of searching, they found a 20-acre parcel of undeveloped land within an hour of Grand Rapids that would make a suitable site. There they planned to establish the West Michigan Burial Forest, developing the land using criteria set out by the Green Burial Council, a private organization that certifies green cemeteries. As of December 2023, the council had certified 333 green cemeteries in the U.S. and Canada.

Specifically, the Quakenbushes wanted to make their site a conservation burial ground, in which they would obtain a conservation easementlimiting what the land could ever be used forand partner with a conservation organization so that the land could be maintained in perpetuity. Their 20-acre parcel would remain a natural forest, otherwise undisturbed, and their burials would use no unnatural chemicals or non-biodegradable materials. Instead of headstones, they would use natural markers, such as trees or rocks native to the area.

In February 2022, they reached out to zoning officials in nearby Brooks Township to see what they would need to do next. According to the Quakenbushes, zoning official Joseph Selzer gave them a list of paperwork they would need in order to qualify for a land use permit. They started drawing up a site plan and reached out to land conservancies who could partner with them on an easement.

They also contacted the district health department, which reviewed their paperwork and visited the site in July to take a soil sample before approving the site in February 2023.

So it came as a shock to the Quakenbushes when, in June 2023, the Brooks Township Board unanimously passed the Township Cemetery Ordinance. Under the ordinance, "cemeteries are expressly prohibited and banned within Brooks Township." The statute even defined cemetery to include "any conventional cemetery, green cemetery, conservation cemetery, burial forest or forest cemetery."

The Quakenbushes are suing the township, seeking an injunction preventing officials from enforcing the ordinance, which they say deprives them of due process in violation of the Michigan Constitution. They are represented by the Institute for Justice (I.J.), a public interest law firm.

Shortly after the Quakenbushes reached out to local zoning officials, the township's legal counsel emailed Selzer to recommend "that new private cemeteries not be allowed within the Township except under certain very limited circumstances."

Alowing "new small or informal private cemeteries on private properties would likely create significant problems throughout the Township and potential property purchasers in the future," wrote Brooks Township attorney Cliff Bloom.

Specifically, Bloom worried that "at some time in the future (whether in a few decades or the distance [sic] future), the family members of the deceased individuals will no longer own the parcel involved," at which point its status as a burial ground "would devalue the property and make it unmarketable or difficult to sell."

"My response to that is, what does it matter? It's not your property," says I.J. attorney Renee Flaherty, who is representing the Quakenbushes.

It's also a nonissue, says Peter. "That's where the relationship with the land conservancy, and the certification, comes in," he says. To be certified as a conservation burial ground, one must "operate in conjunction with a government agency or a nonprofit conservation organization that has legally binding responsibility for perpetual monitoring and enforcement of the easement," according to the Green Burial Council.

And even in the absence of such an agreement, state laws exist to address the concern. Under Michigan law, private cemeteries must register with the state cemetery commissioner. And before a cemetery can sell its first burial plot, "an irrevocable endowment and perpetual care trust fund shall be created by the deposit of at least $50,000.00 into the fund," and "each month, not less than 15% of all proceeds received" shall be deposited into the endowment fund.

The Cemetery Ordinance purports to "protect the public health, safety and general welfare," but Bloom's email indicates that officials are concerned less about how the Quakenbushes use the property than what may happen if one day the they are no longer able to maintain it.

"It will be cared for in perpetuity as a forest, first by Peter and Annica and then whatever organization they partner with," says Flaherty. "But the whole point is to preserve it as a forestthat is what Peter and Annica want to do. They want this land to remain a wild forest forever, and they should have the right to make that decision about property that they own. If the town wants to develop it later, like, sorry for them. It's not their property."

The post Michigan Township Bans All Cemeteries To Prevent Family from Starting One appeared first on Reason.com.
A middle school reportedly removed bathroom mirrors after students were taking up to 9 breaks a day to film TikToks

A school in North Carolina took the unconventional step of removing mirrors from its restrooms.

Students were using the mirrors to film TikToks, according to local news outlet WFMY.

The removal led to a "drastic decrease" in bathroom visits, a school district spokesperson said.

A North Carolina middle school has removed mirrors from its bathrooms, saying students were taking regular, lengthy breaks to make social media videos, according to local reports.

The CBS-affiliate TV news network WFMY spoke to Les Atkins, the public information officer for Alamance-Burlington School System, who said students were "going to the bathroom for long periods of time and making TikTok videos."

An update sent to students' families last week, which was seen by Business Insider, read, "On average students visit the restroom 3 to 4 times a day. Some were asking to go out more frequently and staying for upwards of 5 minutes or more."

That number had increased to up to nine times a day, according to WFMY.

Since removing the mirrors, the school has seen a "drastic decrease" in students making restroom requests, according to the statement sent to parents.

The school opted to make this chance instead of taking phones away from students, as some parents wanted their children to keep their devices on them for safety reasons, Atkins told BI.

Some teachers also used phones as part of assignments if the student had one and wanted to use it, and the school wished to instill a sense of "digital citizenship" and encourage students to use their devices responsibly, instead of confiscating them.

The middle school has also implemented a new "digital hall pass system" to help track the general whereabouts of students throughout the day.

"The pass allows students to check in and out when leaving class, so we know where students are at all times for safety and accountability," Atkins said.

It's unclear what videos the middle schoolers were making during bathroom visits, or how much they were using the mirrors as part of their uploads, but TikToks featuring mirrors are a staple of the platform, from editing transitions to staring challenges .

Last year, a Florida law banned TikTok from all school devices and WiFi networks, a move welcomed by people concerned about the impact social media has on students' mental health, the local ABC affiliate WCJB-TV reported.

Various universities across the country have also banned the app, citing security concerns.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Two civilians were injured in a midnight Russian rocket attack on Myrnohrad, Donetsk Oblast, national broadcaster Suspilne reported on Jan. 22, citing the city military administrations head, Yuriy Klyuchko.

One man and one woman were wounded. The woman is currently in hospital, the man refused hospitalization, said Klyuchko.

Eight houses were damaged  more than four hundred windows were smashed, 50 cars were damaged.

Read also: Russian agent detained in Donetsk Oblast faces life for tracking Ukrainian frontline positions

Due to its proximity to the front line, Myrnohrad has often been the target of shelling by the Russian army.

Read also: Casualty toll climbs to 28 in Donetsk market shelling, Russians claim

Russian forces targeted one of the coal mining enterprises in the city on Jan. 10. As a result of the shelling, several floors collapsed in one of the buildings, leading to the death of a man trapped under the rubble.

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
We were joined for the Lords debate on Rwanda by Peter Mandelson, who did what he always does  sat on the front row and glared at people, as if taking notes for a police state roundup.

Is he malevolent or a gentle soul with bad eyesight? If the latter, he might have wondered why a small boy called Chakrabarti was speaking so passionately against the Rwanda Plan, telling peers that they must stand up for the rule of law and be a little more muscular than usual.

This was met with befuddled stares among a chamber packed with Zimmer frames, slings and wrists broken in brave attempts to open a jam jar. The peers are old. They are also 90 per cent spivvy lawyers, which means that if ever hurt in an accident that wasnt your fault, they dont have to go far for representation.

The argument contra the Governments new UK/Rwanda treaty was well made (and I quote the best speeches). That its not offshoring refugees but offloading (Lord Kerr); that the final destination is far from safe (Lord Alton said that there are five people in the UK accused of genocide who we wont return to Rwanda because we cant guarantee a fair trial).

We can't even be certain deportees will remain in the Central African country, says Baroness Chakrabarti

Lord Razzall noted that Rwanda was originally chosen precisely because it was perceived to be a hell hole, but now the Government finds itself in the paradoxical situation of trying to prove it is a paradise.

We cant even be certain deportees will stay there, said Chakrabarti: if they commit a crime in Rwanda, they might be deported to the UK. In which case, why worry about the ethics of a plan that is so easy to get around?

If you are a refugee, if you find yourself sent to Kigali International, simply nick a Toblerone upon arrival and youll be on the first flight back to London.

Lord Howell questioned the idea that we could ever define any country as 100 per cent safe. Is Britain safe? Our postmasters might disagree, he said. One could add that it isnt very safe to cross the Channel in a dinghy.

House of Lords debating the Rwanda treaty on Monday

As for the author of the anti-government motion, Lord Goldsmith: You know who that is? one wise hack said to another in the press balcony. No, came the reply. Thats Peter Goldsmith: he was Blairs attorney general during the war in Iraq.

We went to war? In Iraq?

The older hack whispered: Dont tell me youve forgotten?

Well, first of all dear, Im only 30, his friend lied with a smile, and second, it was Cool Britannia, so I was too high on ecstasy and coke to notice.

Being of a similar fake age, I must concur that if you can remember the War on Terror, you werent really there. But the hypocrisy remains part of the historic record. How can Lord Goldsmith be taken seriously on this subject?

Or Baroness Chakrabarti, who owed her appointment to Jeremy Corbyn? Maybe the Rwanda Plan is flawed, but so are its critics.

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.
Jonathon Keats envisioned the Millennium Camera, seen here peering across the desert landscape toward the Star Pass neighborhood West of Tumamoc Hill in Tucson, Arizona, to provide not only a record of the past for future humans but also to instigate discussion about what current humans can do to influence the future. | Chris Richards, University of Arizona

Experimental philosopher Jonathon Keats is attempting to capture history with the Millennium Camera: a camera designed to take an image of a Tuscon, Arizona landscape over the next thousand years.

Professor sets up 1,000-year camera shot of Arizona landscape https://t.co/xvD0MChjEq pic.twitter.com/GXZoPyt6po  New York Post (@nypost) January 16, 2024

The camera, as reported by the New York Post, overlooks a soon-to-be housing development in front of the mountainous range.

Keats, a professor at the University of Arizona College of Fine Arts, has stated the art/science project is an attempt to provide a time capsule for the people of 3023, of what has and has not changed in the Tucson landscape, per New Atlas.

Most people have a pretty bleak outlook on what lies ahead, Keats told The University of Arizona. Its easy to imagine that people in 1,000 years could see a version of Tucson that is far worse than what we see today, but the fact that we can imagine it is not a bad thing.

Keats and a team of researchers, according to Science Alert, installed the camera near a hiking trail overlooking Tucson, which is accompanied by a notice for onlookers to reflect on what the millennium may hold.

What is the camera and how does it work?

The Millennium Camera, according to New Atlas, is a copper cylinder with a thin sheet of 24-karat gold at one end, in which a tiny hole has been punched.

The pinhole camera gets exposed to sunlight, which shines onto a light-sensitive surface at the back of the camera, holding multiple thin layers of rose madder: an oil paint pigment.

The camera  mounted on a steel pole  controls reflected light exposure so that the pigment develops distinctions between surroundings, thereby resulting in pigment layers slowly forming features of mountains and skies, per The University of Arizona.

According to the New York Post, the practice has been known to exist as early as 500 BCE. Keats decided to use the antiquated technology because nobodys going to remember to change the batteries after 300 years if you have a digital camera (and) in 1,000 years people might not know how to develop a physical photograph.

Keats is concerned of future humans not having the technical knowledge or products to process images from a conventional camera, which is why he is using the pinhole camera and sun-faded pigment, as reported by The University of Arizona.

The camera isnt perfect  but Keats is hopeful

His project, although promising, has raised some concerns. The rose madder pigment used, per Science Alert, was only an educated guess by Keats, as he hopes it will leave an image via the pigment fading in the repeated cycles of daylight.

In addition, he admits there any multiple factors that can affect the cameras imaging process, such as its removal from future generations, according to Science Alert.

Despite this, Keats is hopeful for the projects outcomes.

By no means is the camera making a statement about development  about how we should build the city or not going forward, Keats said to The University of Arizona. It is set there to invite us to ask questions and to enter into conversation and invite the perspective of future generations in the sense that theyre in our minds.
More than 5 million gallons of partially-treated sewage  enough to nearly fill 11 Olympic-sized swimming pools  flowed into Mills Creek and Lake Monroe on Saturday after a malfunction at a Sanford wastewater treatment plant, according to a city report filed with the state.

Sanford officials posted signs on the RiverWalk pedestrian trail that runs along the southern shoreline of Lake Monroe warning the public to stay out of the water and not to fish because of potentially high bacteria levels.

Exposure to water may cause illness, read the signs that were in place Monday as joggers and bicyclists passed by. Its not clear how long the ban will remain in place.

The overflow was caused after high amounts of wastewater coming into the plant on West Seminole Boulevard overloaded the filters that remove solid matter, according to the report sent Sunday to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Sewage then flowed intermittently into nearby Mills Creek, which runs north from the Goldsboro community into Lake Monroe, just east of Mangoustine Avenue.

Richard Casella, a utility manager for Sanfords water and wastewater plants, said in an email to the Sentinel that work crews spent Monday cleaning the filters and started making adjustments to the plant process to help stop the wastewater overflow and prevent another one.

Lake Monroe is a bloated portion of the St. Johns River, a slow-moving 310-mile waterway that flows north from Indian River County near Vero Beach before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean in Duval County near Jacksonville.

Sanford has long struggled with an aging wastewater system that is ill-equipped to handle a growing population, officials said.

In February 2023, Sanford commissioners agreed during an emergency meeting to spend at least $1 million to repair the citys wastewater system after Hurricane Ian, Tropical Storm Nicole and other rainy weather events in late 2022 overwhelmed the decades-old infrastructure and caused sewage to flow into downtown streets and back up into homes.

City staff said at the time that dozens of new restaurants, breweries and businesses that have opened in recent years have overwhelmed the wastewater and storm water infrastructure built in the 1960s.

mcomas@orlandosentinel.com
DULUTH  The aging Blatnik Bridge, the main connector between Duluth and Superior that is due for a rebuild, has received $1 billion in federal funding, Gov. Tim Walz said Monday afternoon.

"Big news for Minnesota," Walz said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "This investment will foster regional economic growth, strengthen our national supply chains, and improve the safety and reliability of our transportation network."

President Joe Biden, who visited the bridge in March 2022 to highlight the $1 trillion infrastructure law he had signed months earlier, is returning to the same city on Thursday. He plans to discuss the connection between his Bidenomics and Investing in America agenda and rebuilding infrastructure, according to a news release from the White House.

Walz will be there, too.

"I'm telling my team it would take wild horses to keep me away," Walz said during a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Transportation officials in Minnesota and Wisconsin have recommended that the bridge be rebuilt along a similar alignment, with roundabout interchanges and a multiuse path along the side. Transportation departments on both side of the bridge have committed an equal amount of funding to the project  $400 million each.

The Blatnik Bridge, built in 1961, carries 33,000 vehicles per day  traffic moving along Interstate 535 and Hwy. 53. About 265,000 trucks carrying $2.6 billion in domestic goods and $1.07 billion in international goods travel the route every year. The four-lane, 1.5 mile route is one of two major spans linking the port cities. The Richard I. Bong Memorial is slightly less traveled, but would serve as the major connector during the years-long construction project.

"It's a very, very exciting development for Minnesota and Wisconsin, not just the northern parts of the state  just for commerce," said Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who has been pushing for funding for years. "We need that bridge to work."

As it has aged, the Blatnik has required maintenance on its truss work. Officials have cited its structure, vehicle mobility and vehicle safety as reasons for the new bridge.

Walz said he first heard about the need to replace the bridge in 2006 from the late U.S. Rep. James Oberstar, who was an expert on transportation issues. The governor was excited about the news of the money, calling the bridge a massive artery and its replacement transformational. He has been involved in grant applications and met with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in October.

Walz said he expects construction to start later this year on what he said is the single biggest investment to roads and bridges in Minnesota.

Staff writer Rochelle Olson contributed to this story.
Shakespeane "Shay," 13

Shakespeane, 13, who goes by "Shay," is a sweet and polite girl.

Shay's social worker describes her as lovable and engaging. She has a good imagination and sense of humor. Shay is well liked by all of the adults in her life and they note her as being extremely kind and having an empathetic nature. Shay loves music, singing and making TikTok videos. She also enjoys playing volleyball, makeup and getting her hair done.

Shay will thrive in a loving and stable family of any constellation that can provide her with opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, spend time with peers and support her as she develops into a teenager. Shay is longing for a permanent family and told a social worker, I just want to be adopted somewhere peaceful, where I can stay for a long time. Maybe there will be a brother or a sister, but it doesnt matter as long as I dont have to keep moving and everyone is nice. Shays social worker feels that she will do best as the only or youngest child in a home.

Can I adopt?

If youre at least 18 years old, have a stable source of income and room in your heart, you may be a perfect match to adopt a waiting child.

Adoptive parents can be single, married or partnered; experienced or not; renters or homeowners; LGBTQ+ singles and couples. As an adoptive parent, you wont have to pay any fees; adoption from foster care is completely free in Massachusetts.

The process to adopt a child from foster care includes training, interviews and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you. These steps will help match you with a child or sibling group that your family will fit well with.

To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at (617) 964-6273 or go to mareinc.org.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Monday's Child: 'Shay,' 13, a sweet, polite girl who loves singing
A group of students, graduates and professors from Monmouth College will share the results of their research on migrant domestic workers in Singapore at several events this spring, including at one of the Colleges Great Decisions meetings on February 28, the Colleges annual Scholars Day on April 23 and at the April national conference of ASIANetwork in Atlanta.

Monmouth professors Jialin Li and Marlo Belschner led a team of five students on a three-week trip to Singapore last summer, where they conducted research on migrant domestic workers. The ASIANetwork helped fund the trip.

We applied before COVID and didnt get the grant, so we reapplied after COVID, said Belschner, who teaches English and has a background in feminist theories and issues and transnational feminism. Her knowledge of grant agencies helped make the trip possible. Li, who teaches in the Colleges sociology and anthropology department, provided historical background on Singapore, saying that just 60 years ago, Singapore was one of the worlds poorest countries. Government officials placed high value on womens education to reverse the widespread poverty and unemployment. This also attracted migrant domestic workers from nearby nations, including Myanmar (formerly Burma), Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

It was around 1978 when the government wanted highly educated women to go to the labor market, and so they needed workers who can continue domestic labor, said Li. So they opened the door to allow migrant domestic workers to apply for a temporary visa so that they could come and work in individual households in Singapore.

The group traveled to three malls  Peninsular Plaza (for Burmese migrant domestic workers), City Plaza (Indonesian), and Lucky Plaza (the Philippines) to observe the lifestyles of other cultures, especially on Sundays because it was the busiest day for the migrant domestic workers.



We were well-prepared for our trip by taking a half-semester course surrounding education about foreign domestic workers and about Singapore, in general, before leaving, said Kylie McDonald 23, who signed up for the experience because it would be an extraordinary addition to her grad school profile.



From left, Ethan Forsberg, Michael Andal, Jacinda Garcia, Addison Cox and Kylie McDonald at Singapore National Library(Monmouth College)

Women who are migrant domestic workers in Singapore usually care for the elderly and children, cook and conduct other domestic chores like dog walking. These jobs are usually much better than the situations the migrant workers faced in their home nations.



It wasnt until traveling to Singapore and talking to these women personally that I understood how complex of an issue this work really is, said McDonald, who graduated last May. Despite the negatives, these women repeatedly expressed gratitude for the opportunity to do this work. Many chose to stay in Singapore long-term. I suddenly realized that no matter how horrendous their treatment in Singapore could potentially be, their home life was much worse.



Even on Sundays, the migrant women work to improve their qualifications so that when they return home, they can help others.



Most of our work and observations were on Sundays at the malls, and we also went in and spent some time with workers at the nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), said Belschner. There were also some taking classes, including a large group taking certified nursing classes. They were doing it to help increase their qualifications as a worker, and they also talked about being more qualified to help people back home. We spent some time talking and eating with them. And our students also sang, played music with them and ran a tie-dye workshop at one of the NGOs.



Addison Cox and Jacinda Garcia, who both graduated in May, and Michael Andal 26 of Crystal Lake, Illinois, and Ethan Forsberg 24 of Carbondale, Illinois were the other members of the group. They completed tasks like conducting one-on-one interviews with the workers efficiently, according to their professors. It wasnt all work though; they spent time exploring the city and visiting Singapores zoo.



Ethan Forsberg, Addison Cox and Jacinda Garcia in front of the Hainan Chicken Rice stall during a scavenger hunt in Singapore (Monmouth College)

One of the advantages of this trip is that the students were able to bear witness to the workers personal stories, discovering realities that were not stated anywhere else, said Li. During one tour we made to TWC 2 (Transient Workers Count Too), our students interviewed a construction worker from Bangladesh. We also learned a lot from the director of that organization regarding the obstacles and social injustice Bangladesh workers are facing in Singapore.



We learned that they really love to dance. and we were taken out behind the mall where plastic tarps stretched across the grassy area, said McDonald. Women camped out with friends for the day. They had a big speaker set up and dozens of women danced around enjoying their day off. We were pulled into the chaos and danced around with the women. In the meantime, many lined up to take videos or pictures with us since we were Westerners. Eventually, it felt like we were celebrities at a meet-and-greet with fans. We had to get our professors to come pull us away.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
The Monroeville Recreation & Parks Department is spearheading a project meant to honor and support local police officers.

Within the last few months, two Monroeville Police Department officers were shot and injured in the line of duty.

The first incident happened in November when an officer was shot as officers approached suspect Bruce Alvarado at the end of a chase.

RELATED COVERAGE >> Monroeville officer shot: What we know about the suspect, his criminal past

The second incident happened in January when an officer responding to an armed robbery report at a shopping center was shot several times while still in a police vehicle.

RELATED COVERAGE >> Monroeville police officer shot by Crumbl Cookie armed robbery suspect

In response to these shootings, and to show thanks to first responders, the department has created the Blue Light Project.

The initiative asks Monroeville residents to display a blue light outdoors as a show of support for police officers.

Residents can put out blue lights they already have or purchase. Blue 9w LED bulbs are also available for purchase at the Monroeville Recreation & Parks office for $10 each, cash only. The funds from these bulbs go to the Monroeville Police Benevolent Association, which supports officers and their families.

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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

More than 900,000 people joined demonstrations across Germany at the weekend against far-right extremism and the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, according to police estimates compiled by the Interior Ministry.

Huge crowds gathered in numerous cities on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in response to revelations in news reports that far-right politicians, including members of the AfD, had joined a meeting in November with far-right extremists to discuss making immigrants leave the country.

The size of the crowds forced organizers in Hamburg on Friday and Munich on Sunday to call off the anti-AfD rallies due to concerns about overcrowding and safety.

Many protesters denounced the AfD's hardline anti-immigrant stances and described the party as a threat to Germany's democratic system and values.

The AfD has seen surging support in opinion polls, however, and made strong showings in state parliamentary elections last autumn in the populous states of Hesse and Bavaria.

Further state elections are scheduled for later this year in Brandenburg, Thuringia and Saxony, all located in the former East Germany, where the AfD has been strongest. Polls suggest the party could come first in all three states.
After months on political life support, Ron DeSantis has finally put himself  and everyone else  out of his misery and suspended his campaign for the 2024 Republican nomination. While the Florida governor ran on a wet dream policy package for extremist, culture war-obsessed conservatives, his campaign simply could not overcome its biggest obstacle: Ron DeSantis himself.

American presidential politics has a storied history of promising candidates tanking over awkward moments and unfortunate gaffes. Jeb Bush begging his audience to please clap, Howard Deans scream, Richard Nixon looking super sweaty during a debate against John F. Kennedy, and Michael Dukakis wearing an ill-fitting helmet during a ride in a tank are all moments that live in infamy as campaign-obliterating blunders. But perhaps no candidate in recent memory has had a more awkward, humiliating run for the White House than DeSantis.

From its inception to its end, the DeSantis campaign struggled to compensate for a candidate who had the charisma of a slug in a salt mine. For all the success the Florida governor had turning his state into a fantasy sandbox for Republican grievance politics, throughout his bid for the presidency it often seemed like DeSantis couldnt figure out how to behave like a real human. To commemorate the end of the presidential run that gripped the nation for all the wrong reasons, here are some of DeSantis weirdest, awkwardest, and most cringe-inducing campaign moments.

Letting Elon Musk ruin his campaign launch

After months of running a shadow campaign under the flimsy guise of a national book tour, DeSantis chose to officially launch his run for the White House via an exclusive event on Twitter Spaces. It did not go well.

The launch, hosted by X owner Elon Musk, was a glitch-filled fiasco that in retrospect was the biggest sign of how DeSantis campaign would unfold. Amid technical issues, server crashes, and long awkward silences, Musk ultimately was forced to open a second stream where DeSantis was finally able to announce his candidacy.

"Servers are straining somewhat"  Elon Musk on his Twitter Space with Ron DeSantis pic.twitter.com/XOm6jcX8G2  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 24, 2023

DeSantis rivals pounced on the botched announcement. Wow! The DeSanctus TWITTER launch is a DISASTER! former president Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social. President Bidens team got a crack in as well, tweeting out a donation link captioned This link works.

Eating pudding with his fingers  allegedly

Throughout the campaign, rumors swirled that DeSantis was not only awkward in public, but had terrible manners behind the scenes. Enter chocolate pudding cups.

In March, before DeSantis officially declared his candidacy, The Daily Beast released a report featuring anonymous commentary from an ex-DeSantis staffer who alleged the Florida governor once gobbled down a chocolate pudding cup using three of his fingers while on board a private plane to Washington, D.C.

The hubbub around DeSantis finger-licking habits grew so large that he was forced to publicly address the chocolaty charges during an interview with Piers Morgan. I dont remember ever doing that, DeSantis said, maybe when I was a kid.

The denial didnt stop the Trump-affiliated Make America Great Again PAC from releasing an ad attacking DeSantis as a man who loves sticking his fingers where they dont belong, and were not just talking about pudding.

Pudding Fingers pic.twitter.com/PRCVAZlkw9  MAGA War Room (@MAGAIncWarRoom) April 14, 2023

Gross eating habits were just the beginning of a long slew of etiquette faux pas that plagued DeSantis campaign. Former state officials claimed he was a bit of a slob who never cleaned up after himself, other politicians complained he would intentionally ignore them or pretend not to recognize them, and former staffers described him to Rolling Stone as just plain rude. No a good look.

Using Nazi symbols in his campaign content

DeSantis was desperate to create the impression that his campaign had a widespread base of organic support, especially online. To achieve this, the campaigns War Room created a system in which they would produce pro-DeSantis videos to shop out to influencers.

One of these videos backfired horrifically when one staffer, Nate Hochman, produced and then promoted a video featuring an image of a Sonnenrad, a symbol that was co-opted by the Nazi regime.

The video ends with an image of DeSantis in the center of Florida's state seal  which then morphs into a rotating Sonnenrad, an ancient symbol appropriated by the Nazis and still used by some white supremacists. pic.twitter.com/uDtf5jT5Oo  Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) July 25, 2023

DeSantis never directly took responsibility for the images use (although Hochman was fired from the campaign), but the incident caused headaches for the Florida governors backers. As one DeSantis doner put it to Rolling Stone at the time If they keep blowing money on fucking memes, Im out.

Using heel lifts to boost his height  again, allegedly

Presidential candidates often try and present themselves as rugged, rough-and-tumble everymen who can identify with the average blue-collar voter. For DeSantis, that meant pairing his suits with a pair of extremely shiny, extremely pointy, extremely uncomfortable-looking cowboy boots.

what  and i cannot emphasize this enough  are thooooooose pic.twitter.com/uMy7kxR2n2  Max Steele (@maxasteele) October 6, 2023

Dont get us wrong, we love a good boot. DeSantis boots, however, did not seem to be made for walkin, and he took up the awkward gait of a man forced to bear his weight on his tippy toes.

The bombastic boots spurred theories that he was actually wearing lifts inside his shoes to appear taller than his given height of 511.

obsessed with the theory that Ron DeSantis's shoes look so weird because they're hiding 4 inch heels inside pic.twitter.com/hZRSuNpW0n  Jeremiah Johnson  (@JeremiahDJohns) October 6, 2023

The mockery and speculation grew so intense that Politico tapped menswear writer Derek Guy to investigate the allegations of shoe shenanigans. Zephan Parker, of the renowned Parker Boot Company  and two other cobbling experts  told Guy that there was little doubt DeSantis was wearing lifts.

Traditional Western boots are typically built with an elevated heel, Parker explained to Guy, adding that inserting lifts into the boots would effectively turn them into five-inch stilettos.

Thats too much for the common man, he added.

He struggled to crack a human smile during the debates

Nowhere were DeSantis struggles to appear comfortable in his own skin more evident than when he was forced to interact with other humans on national television.

Debate nights seemed to be a torturous exercise for the Florida governor, who opened virtually every on-stage appearance with a smile that screamed I am trapped in this flesh prison please free me.

love smiling like a human pic.twitter.com/5BJWYJaC5g  Brennan Murphy (@brenonade) August 24, 2023

Heres another one:

DeSantis would be better off giving up on trying to master a natural-looking human smile & just go 24/7 with his resting b*tch face. pic.twitter.com/BQcFBmtWRX  Osborne Cox (@Osborne__Cox) November 9, 2023

DeSantis wasnt a very good debater, either. He was often steamrolled by the obnoxious antics of Vivek Ramaswamy and  as previously reported by Rolling Stone  failed to impress donors. He did manage to whip out a printed-out poop map of San Francisco during a debate with Gavin Newsom, which later gave the Democratic California governor the opportunity to sum up how we all felt about DeSantis campaign: I was embarrassed for him.

He was unable to have a normal interaction with normal people

DeSantis may not have won the nomination, but he will likely go down as one of the most awkward retail politicians in modern memory.

Weve covered awkward smiles, but DeSantis also unleashed their louder, more terrifying cousin upon the masses: his laugh. The Florida governor had an open-jawed, body-contorting fake laugh that made him look like he was about to devour whatever hapless Iowan happened to be standing in front of him in one gulp.

what the fuck is wrong with him pic.twitter.com/93Vi1A5ZR4  Florida Chris (@chrislongview) May 16, 2023

When DeSantis wasnt letting voters get a full frontal view of his uvula, he was (allegedly) rubbing his snot on unsuspecting potential supporters. On more than one occasion, DeSantis was caught allegedly rubbing his nose and then swiping his hand on the nearest body he could make contact with  including a guy in a wheelchair.

Did he just wipe his snot on the guys shirt sitting in a wheelchair? pic.twitter.com/Mls53R4rtf  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) May 19, 2023

He was no better around children. During one campaign stop in Iowa, DeSantis asked a young child what they were drinking. An ICEE, the kid responded. The governor was unimpressed, quipping thats probably a lot of sugar, before moving along.

He capped his national humiliation by endorsing Trump

DeSantis campaign was filled with bizarre gaffes, but nothing defined it more than its place on the receiving end of a relentless barrage of attacks from Donald Trump. The former president, feeling betrayed by the man he endorsed for governor of Florida, had a field day making fun of Ron DeSanctimonious for many of the reasons listed above, while also accusing him of everything from homosexuality to pedophilia. DeSantis capped his national humiliation by endorsing Trump immediately after dropping out of the race. 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.

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

Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts, DeSantis wrote on his announcement video, attributing the quote to Winston Churchill. Theres no evidence, however, that Churchill ever said this.

More from Rolling Stone

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A family is grieving the loss of a mother of four, who officials say was found dead in her home.

Cobb County police told Channel 2 Action News that officers were called to do a welfare check at a home on Perch Drive in Marietta last Wednesday.

When officers arrived, they located Melinda Jolly, who was found dead inside the home by her cousin.

Family told Channel 2 Action News that before her cousin found her, neighbors had been knocking on Melinda Jollys door and did not receive a response.

According to a fundraiser set up by her family, Melinda Jolly was the mother of four children and moved to Georgia from California in 2019 after her husband died from cancer.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Kathleen Jolly, Melindas sister, said the family had found out that her sister was in an abusive relationship around the time of her death.

My mom and I live in California, so we have been calling the police department where she lives so that they could send police officers to her house to do welfare checks. The last time they checked on her was Jan. 15, Kathleen Jolly wrote. My cousin Jill went to Melindas home on Wednesday to check on her, and that is when she was found; Melinda was no longer with us.

Authorities confirmed that a suspect was arrested on Jan. 18 in Okaloosa County, Florida. Charles Cook, 41, faces murder and aggravated assault charges in Melinda Jollys death.

Police have not specified the nature of Melinda and the suspects relationship.

TRENDING STORIES:

Melinda was a kind, compassionate young woman with her whole life ahead of her, Kathleen Jolly wrote. She had a sparkle in her eye and truly lit up a room. She had a big heart and loved her children with everything she had. She was the best mom, a beloved daughter, a caring sister, a whimsical aunt, a gracious niece, and a forever friend. She was just a beautiful person inside and out. She had the best smile and the craziest ideas. She will be missed by so many.

Family members confirmed that the children are now in the care of their aunt and uncle.

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Please pray for the children because they are left without a mother and a father, Kathleen Jolly wrote. It will be a long road of healing and rebuilding for everyone. Please pray for our entire family; we are all devastated beyond belief.

Channel 2s Audrey Washington was in the neighborhood Monday, where people who lived nearby said they are still in shock.

I was shaken, not knowing how to react, Robert Williams said. It was something not expected.

Some neighbors said they knew something must be wrong because the family seemed to just disappear.

Their dogs were outside, and it was so cold, neighbor Danielle Burdett said.

Burdett said she knew Jolly had a troubled relationship with her live-in boyfriend, Cook.

I actually gave them the tag number to his vehicle and thats what I believe helped get him, Burdett said.

Burdett said she encourages anyone who is in an abusive relationship to reach out for help.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Less than a week into the Israel-Hamas war, the United Nations appealed to the world asking for nearly $300 million in aid to assist Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Within a month, the figure nearly quadrupled as the entire Gaza Strip plunged into a humanitarian catastrophe.

Three months into the war, international donors, mostly governments, have provided just over half of the requested funds through the UNs plan, according to data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Financial Tracking Service.

The figures reveal that only four-fifths of the emergency funding needed to ensure food security and roughly a quarter of whats needed for shelter, water and sanitation have been provided.

Aid organizations say that nearly the entire population of the Gaza Strip faces a humanitarian crisis. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a UN-backed food security agency, reported on December 21 that virtually all households are skipping meals every day in Gaza. The spread of diseases, including hepatitis, diarrhea and respiratory infections, is putting more lives at risk, according to the World Health Organization.

The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNWRA) is reporting that nearly 80% of Gazas civilian population of roughly 2.2 million has been displaced since Israel launched its military operation in response to Hamas assault on October 7, when militants killed around 1,200 people and took more than 200 others hostage, according to Israeli authorities.

Many are sheltering in tents or overcrowded accommodations in Rafah in southern Gaza, after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told people to flee both northern Gaza and Khan Younis in the south. Displaced Palestinians, many of whom left their homes with little or nothing, say they are struggling to stay dry and warm as winter temperatures and rains set in.

Meanwhile, the UN agency which provides services to more than half of Gazas civilians is on the verge of collapse, its leader said in a letter to the President of the UN General Assembly on December 7. As of January 12, more than 150 staff members have been killed  more than in any other conflict  and at least 70% of the remaining staff are displaced, according to the UNRWA.

The IDF has begun pulling its soldiers out of Gaza, but has said it expects fighting to continue throughout 2024. On December 22, the UN Security Council passed a resolution calling for further extended humanitarian pauses to allow more aid into Gaza. There has been no pause in fighting since a seven-day span at the end of November which was negotiated as part of an Israel-Hamas hostage release deal.

People carry some of their belongings as they walk to Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on January 4, fleeing central Gaza. - Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto/Getty Images

Gazas long dependence on aid

Gaza has been among the worlds top recipients of aid per capita for years. Before the war, four in five people depended on international help and as many as 1.84 million people were food insecure, according to the World Food Program.

The unemployment rate for Gaza was as high as 45% in 2022, according to the Palestinian Bureau of Statistics. In 2022, according to the World Bank, South Africa had the highest unemployment rate in the world at 29.8%, and Gaza and the West Bank together were third at 25.7%.

In 1993, Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) signed the Oslo Accords. Under the agreement, the PLO gave up armed resistance against Israel in return for promises of an independent Palestinian state. The accords also established the Palestinian Authority (PA) as the limited self-rule government for Gaza and the West Bank. Hamas, an Islamist organization established in 1987, opposed the accords. Its charter calls for the destruction of Israel and the group sees Israel as an illegitimate state occupying the West Bank.

Rising frustration with the PA on a number of fronts, including the lack of change, led to Hamas winning the majority of seats in the 2006 Palestinian Legislative Council election. Fatah, the political party forming the backbone of the PA, and Hamas formed a short-lived coalition government. The latter forcefully took control of Gaza in June 2007. Since then, the PA only exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

A Palestinian boy looks from the window, just above the pockmarked wall, following overnight clashes between Fatah and Hamas in Gaza in May 2007. - Mohammed Abed/AFP/Getty Images/File

From mid-1990s to early 2000s, Palestine is in this state-building project and a lot of (development) aid goes towards that, said Yara Asi, an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida who studies Palestinian health and human rights. In the early 2000s, you start seeing disillusionment  the promises of Oslo did not come to fruition.

In 2007, Hamas militants seized control of Gaza from forces loyal to the PA. Within months, Israels security cabinet would designate Gaza as hostile territory.

Israel then instituted an ongoing blockade, severely limiting the movement of people and goods by land, sea or air, which it argues is essential to prevent Hamas from arming itself. Restrictions extend to goods the Israelis consider as having a dual civilian and military use, such as concrete, agricultural fertilizer compounds and some medical equipment.

Lots of everyday goods and especially building materials could not enter the Gaza Strip because they are on the so-called dual-use material list, said Rene Wildangel, an adjunct fellow at the International Hellenic University in Thessaloniki, Greece, and a former human rights expert for the Middle East at Amnesty International.

This makes reconstruction difficult, Wildangel said.

The UN said in a 2022 report that the restrictions have had a profound impact on daily living conditions in Gaza and undermined Gazas economy, resulting in high unemployment, food insecurity and aid dependency.

In the wake of the blockade, trade stalled, jobs disappeared, and more and more families fell into poverty, while the population in Gaza grew by nearly 60%, according to an analysis of Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics data.

With Hamas classified as a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union, most of the international community cut off direct investment to Gaza after 2007.

But the magnitude of need in Gaza meant emergency and humanitarian assistance had to keep coming. Data published by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) shows total foreign aid to the Palestinian territories has been notably higher since the Hamas takeover compared with the post-Oslo era.

But even as foreign aid to Gaza rose in the wake of the Hamas takeover, the amount of aid fluctuates annually, OECD data shows.

Aid to Palestinians is adhoc, it depends on who the (US) president is, depends on who is in charge in Europe; Qatar may wake up one day and decide they want (to help), Asi told CNN. So, Palestinians are not given any ability to plan things for the future.

After 2007, the US bolstered its economic assistance to strengthen the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.

In 2018, the Trump administration cut about $200 million in Palestinian aid and halted contributions to UNRWA. Though Biden reinstated assistance in 2021, the amounts have never returned to Obama-era levels, which reached as high as $1 billion in 2009.

Qatar has also been a major donor to Gaza, contributing about $1.3 billion since 2019, according to OECD data. The country has even provided cash to pay civil servants salaries and shipped fuel to help with generating electricity since at least 2018 with Israels approval.

The PA opposed the funding of its rival, and the Israeli intelligence community didnt back it, according to a former senior defense ministry official, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the time that he supported the Qatari payments, to return calm to (Israeli) villages of the south, but also to prevent a humanitarian disaster (in Gaza). Israeli and international media reported Netanyahu hoped that an emboldened Hamas and divided Palestinian factions would prevent efforts to create a Palestinian state, CNN has reported.

Qatar maintains close ties with both Hamas and Western states, including the United States.

Qatars funding has been a lifeline to the Hamas government ever since its takeover in 2007, Wildangel said, but added that these funds  some of which have been delivered in suitcases full of cash  have been very hard to track.

Israeli leadership fought over post-war plans for Gaza during a security cabinet meeting on January 4, CNN reported, and ministers have outlined conflicting plans for its future governance.

Meanwhile, civilians in Gaza continue to face desperate hardship. The UN emergency relief chief said earlier last week that the great majority of 400,000 Gazans at risk of starving are actually in famine, not just at risk of famine while the enclave faces a continuing near-total communications blackout. Medicine for Israeli hostages and Palestinians entered Gaza last Wednesday after Qatar brokered a deal with Israel and Hamas. For every box of medication given to a hostage, Palestinians in Gaza would receive 1,000 boxes.

A man sits with children by a fire outside one of the tents housing displaced Palestinians in Rafah on December 18, 2023. - Mahmud Hams/AFP/Getty Images

This story has been updated.

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JOLIET, Ill. (CBS) -- Eight people were found shot and killed in three different locations over two days in Joliet, and the suspect in the slayings was also found dead by a suspected suicide 1,200 miles away Monday night, police said.

The apparent self-inflicted gunshot death of 23-year-old Romeo Nance in Texas followed a manhunt by multiple law enforcement agencies.

At a news conference, Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans said his officers were notified by the Will County Sheriff's office at 12:04 p.m. Monday about several people found dead in two separate houses in the 2200 block of West Acres Road near Madison Street.

Responding officers found a total of seven people in two houses who had all been shot dead, Evans said.

Joliet police said immediately after announcing the Monday shooting deaths that they were looking for Nance. He was believed to have been driving a red Toyota Camry, Nance's last known address had been on the same block of Acres Road, Evans said. Evans said Nance knew the victims found in the two houses, and it was believed they were all related.

Will County Sheriff's deputies had discovered the bodies as they investigated an earlier shooting, which had left a man dead in an unincorporated area just outside Joliet proper the day before. The common link was the red Toyota Camry associated with Nance.

/ Credit: Joliet Police/Will County Sheriff's office/CBS 2

At 4:27 p.m. Sunday, the Will County Sheriff's office was called to the Pheasant Run Apartments, off Pheasant Run Road in unincorporated Joliet Township, where they found a man bleeding on the ground from a gunshot wound. The 28-year-old man, who was originally from Nigeria and had lived in the United States for about three years, was rushed to an area hospital and died.

The Will County Coroner's office identified this victim as Toyosi I. Bakare, 28, of Joliet.

About 10 minutes earlier, a 42-year-old man had been shot in the leg in the 200 block of Davis Street in Joliet. That victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The Will County Sheriff's office said these earlier incidents appeared random  and the two victims were not connected. However, according to the sheriff's office, the same car with the same license plate associated with Nance was spotted at both scenes.

Will County Sheriff's Deputy Chief Dan Jungles said detectives were investigating the deadly Sunday shooting a day later  and had set up a surveillance area on Acres Road, where the registered owner of the car lived.

Deputies walked to a house and knocked on the door, Jungles said. When they received no response, they knew the people who lived in a house across the street were related to those living in the first house, Jungles said.

The deputies found blood as they entered the houses to look for injured people.

Ultimately, five people were found dead in one house at 2225 W. Acres Rd., and two were found dead in the other at 2212 W. Acres Rd., the sheriff's office said.

"I've been a policeman 29 years," Evans said. "This is probably the worst crime scene I've ever been associated with."

Joliet police announced a manhunt for Nance was underway Monday evening, and warned that he was armed and dangerous. But another horrible twist in the case came before the night's end.

Around 8:30 p.m. Monday, Joliet police learned Nance had been spotted by U.S. Marshals in Natalia, Texas  30 miles southwest of San Antonio. Natalia, Texas, is 1,200 miles from Joliet  more than an 18-hour drive. Joliet police said Nance was found in a car at a Valero gas station.

It is believed that Nance died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after a confrontation with Texas law enforcement, according to Joliet police.

Nance's prior arrest records indicated that he was previously arrested for aggravated discharge of a weapon involving a woman. Court records show Nance was out on bond in connection with that 2023 shooting case and was still awaiting trial.

Speaking before Nance was found dead, several distraught neighbors in Joliet said they were disturbed by the violence  and what appeared to be the strange and random nature of the crimes.

"It's frightening that this is so close to home. I literally live like probably four houses down, and I have a young daughter, and it's crazy," said Laura Bane. "This is a neighborhood  there's a park right down the street. It's crazy that there are young kids  they get off the bus right here."

"Really angry about it. I'm speechless. I can't even really talk about it," another woman said. "It's shocking to me that this stuff doesn't just happen on TV. It's real."

Charles Osgood, longtime host of "Sunday Morning," dies at 91

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What Nikki Haley's candidacy says about state of women in politics
Elon Musk claimed Monday that outside audits have shown that X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, has the least amount of antisemitism compared to other social media platforms.

The outside audits that weve had done, at the ones that weve had done, show that there is the least amount of antisemitism on X, if you look at all the other social apps, Musk said during a discussion with conservative pundit Ben Shapiro at the European Jewish Association (EJA) conference in Krakow, Poland.

Elon Musk addresses claims of antisemitism: Nothing could be further from the truth

The X owner did not offer any additional information about the outside audits or their results.

Musk made an appearance at the conference after visiting the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp in Oswiecim, Poland, earlier Monday.

Since purchasing the platform then known as Twitter in October 2022, Musk has repeatedly been accused of failing to crack down on antisemitism on the social media site and has occasionally faced accusations of antisemitism himself.

In late November, Musk sparked backlash when he appeared to endorse an antisemitic conspiracy theory in a post on X.

X loses ad sales, faces blowback after Musk antisemitism

The controversy was quickly followed by a series of reports from the liberal watchdog Media Matters for America, finding that ads for mainstream brands had been placed next to pro-Nazi and white nationalist content on the platform.

Several major advertisers  including Disney, Apple, IBM, Comcast, Lionsgate, Warner Bros. Discovery, Sony Pictures and Paramount  halted spending on X as a result. Musk responded by telling advertisers to go f yourself.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
North Carolinas head of state is coming to the Queen City on Monday, the day of the 51st anniversary of the historic Roe v. Wade decision.

Governor Roy Cooper will be joined by other state Democrats and local healthcare providers for a press conference endorsing President Biden at 1 p.m. Monday.

Hes visiting on the heels of Vice President Kamala Harriss trip to Charlotte and Bidens stop in Raleigh.

READ MORE: Vice President Kamala Harris announces mental health funding for NC schools

READ MORE: Biden visits North Carolina, a state he hopes to win in November, to promote internet access

On Thursday, Biden unveiled $82 million for North Carolina to help connect 16,000 new households and businesses to high-speed internet.

(WATCH: Vice President Kamala Harris visits Leah & Louise at Camp North End)
Parents in a Charlotte-area county are upset after a religious group said it was told by the school district it would have to cut back on its weekly student bible club meetings.

In a post to Facebook on Tuesday, United for Christ, a Christian outreach ministry based in Denver, claimed that the Lincoln County Schools Board of Education informed them during a recent meeting that they would no longer be able to operate their bible club in schools on a weekly basis. Instead, the district permitted them to meet once per month, the ministry said.

Lincoln County Schools said it had received complaints about the club, but that no decisions have been made on when or if the club can meet on school property.

The club currently operates in East Lincoln, West Lincoln, North Lincoln and Lincolnton middle schools, according to Facebook.

According to the post, the group was told there were concerns that the club operating on school grounds may be in violation of the law.

But United For Christ claimed in the post that a board of education staff member acknowledged that UFC was operating within the parameters of the law and that this decision was being made solely on the comfort of the district.

The ministry later clarified in the comments on their post that the decision was made by Eric Eaker, the chief operations officer for the district, and that the board of education was not involved in the decision.

When The Charlotte Observer contacted Lincoln County Schools for further clarification, the district provided the same response it posted to Facebook Tuesday, explaining the meeting with United for Christ and what they called their desire to ensure student liberties are protected:

This meeting was intended for LCS to obtain a better understanding of the United for Christ operations to ensure LCS is following all federal laws, including the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. LCS requested the meeting after receiving complaints that students were being pressured to participate in this optional program. No one at the meeting stated or implied that United for Christ was violating the law...

No decisions or ultimatums were made by LCS and we agreed to meet again in January after having time to consider the information provided by United for Christ.

So whats the legality of holding religious meetings on public school property in North Carolina?

Are religious organizations for students allowed in NC schools?

In accordance with the First Amendment, North Carolina law allows students to organize religious clubs before, during and after school.

Religious groups shall be given the same access to school facilities for assembling as is given to other noncurricular groups without discrimination based on the religious content of the students expression, the law says.

If student groups that meet for nonreligious activities are permitted to advertise or announce meetings of the groups, the school district shall not discriminate against groups that meet for prayer or other religious speech.

However, students can be prohibited from participating in religion-based clubs if they harass or coerce other students to participate in the activity.

Response from parents

In the comments of United For Christs Facebook post, parents of children in the district commended the ministry for their efforts to bring the club to schools.

Is the next school board meeting Feb 13? one parent asked. If so I think we need to show our support of this organization and the efforts they are putting towards bettering our youth!

Praying for this ministry, another wrote. My daughter enjoys this weekly meeting.

We are behind you, another commented. Thank you for all youre doing.

In their Facebook post, United for Christ said they are working to resolve the issue in order to continue its weekly bible club meetings.

Please know that we are doing everything in our power to protect and preserve the the rights of every child in their family, the ministry said. We have been careful and gracious in our stance, but we refuse to be bullied into taking what makes a district comfortable when nothing is being done illegally.
As a working mother, I understand how difficult it can be to juggle work, family and time for myself. All of us struggle to make ends meet and ensure that we have enough time to provide for the health and well-being of our families, let alone ourselves.

I felt that firsthand working as a registered nurse, and I see it more since I have had the opportunity to serve in the North Carolina General Assembly and meet people across the state who deal with it daily as well.

Rep. Diamond Staton-Williams

In my experience and the experience of those who instruct the way I approach work as a legislator, too many working parents are having trouble being present as a parent and providing the income needed to sustain their family. A Jan. 11 article by the News & Observer (NC is among the worst states for working parents, study finds. Heres why) highlighted how tough that can be in North Carolina.

Despite all the things that make our state great, we have to acknowledge where we fall short so that we can improve. North Carolina ranks near the bottom of states for working parents. In fact, we are the fifth worst.

Last year, I was a primary sponsor of the Working Families Act. Unfortunately, the bill was referred directly to the House Rules Committee where it languished along with many other Democratic bills. It did not receive a hearing. We were not allowed to present it to a committee.

The Working Families Act contains several policies my colleagues and I believe would move our state forward for working families.

First, it would help put more money in the pockets of working parents by providing for a state child tax credit. Instead of blanket tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthiest folks, we should be targeting tax cuts in ways that benefit people who need it the most. Child tax credits are popular because they do just that, and I support it wholeheartedly.

This bill would also raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. The minimum wage of $7.25 in North Carolina is simply not getting the job done for working folks, especially those with children. For more than a decade the states minimum wage has been stagnant, but I know your bills havent been. More money in your pockets helps offset the cost of childcare and other essentials.

Through the Working Families Act we also proposed passing the Paid Family Leave Insurance Act to help working families spend time with loved ones in need. Nobody should face the impossible choice of providing care to sick family members or losing their job.

The bill also introduces a Homeownership Fund to provide assistance to first-time homebuyers who work for the state. Too many North Carolinians are unable to secure the American dream of owning their own home and building generational wealth. This is one way to work toward that.

These are concrete examples of how we are working to provide a better life for working families, but the Working Families Act legislation does much more than this. These arent far-fetched ideas, theyre common sense solutions for kitchen table issues that every N.C. family talks about. I know, because my family has these conversations. Im sure yours does too.

I believe in a North Carolina that is willing to do what it takes to improve the lives of its citizens. We need a General Assembly with leaders who will at least allow for ideas like these to be debated and heard in committee.

Diamond Staton-Williams represents Cabarrus County in the N.C. General Assembly.


A 3D illustration of a tardigrade.

Scientists may have figured out one of the many mysteries surrounding everyones favorite microscopic survivor: the tardigrade. In new research, a team appears to have uncovered a key mechanism that these tiny critters use to withstand harsh conditions that would kill almost any other animal.

Tardigrades are a group of eight-legged invertebrates (their closest living relatives are either arthropods or nematodes; more evidence currently supports the latter). Their adorable appearance has earned them the nicknames of water bears or moss piglets. But its their uncanny potential to survive most anything thats thrown at them thats really made them popular. Tardigrades can live in some of the most inhospitable places on Earth (and even outside of it) and, if times get really tough, they can also enter a period of death-like dormancy.

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In tardigrades, the researchers found, ROS seems to signal the oxidation of the amino acid cysteine, which in turn seems to be crucial to the formation of tun. And when the team found ways to turn off the ability to oxidize cysteine in their tiny test subjects, the tardigrades lost their ability to tun as before, further supporting their hypothesis.

The findings are based on studying only one species of tardigrade (Hypsibius exemplaris). And even if this research holds up to further scrutiny, the scientists know that they havent solved every aspect of tardigrade survival. Not every known species undergoes tun, and there are other strategies that tardigrades use to endure poor living conditions. But this research should provide new avenues to investigate these amazing animals.

Its opened up a whole huge repertoire of experiments we can now pursue, study author Leslie Hicks, a chemist at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, told Scientific American.

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An online search tool could help more than 1,500 Kansans claim back wages recovered by the U.S. Department of Labors Wage and Hour Division.

According to an agency press release, more than $1 million belonging to Kansans has remained unclaimed because employees cannot be found, either due to a change of job or change of address. Employers not having contact information or an employee changing their name is another roadblock, the press release said.

Heres what to know about back wages and how to check if you may be owed.

What are back wages?

Back wages are ordered of an employer under the Wages and Fair Labor Standards Act, which covers multiple topics, including minimum wage, overtime, record keeping and more.

Under the FLSA, there are multiple ways you can collect back wages, and those include, according to the federal DOL:

The Wage and Hour Division supervises payment to owed workers

The secretary of labor brings a suit for back wages

An employee files private suit for back pay

The secretary of labor obtains an injunction to restrain anyone after violating the FLSA

Last March, the federal DOL filed a suit against two Kansas restaurants due to denied minimum and overtime wages to employees who worked as many as 66 hours a week. The owner had to recover more than $770,000 in back wages and damages for the affected employees.

In 2021, the owner of former Wichita restaurant Fredos Wine and Tapas was ordered to pay back employees after violating minimum wage and overtime regulations. Workers who sued the restaurant said they hadnt been paid properly for more than a year. The owner was ordered to pay more than $21,000 in back pay and damages. The restaurant closed in 2020.

How can I see if I am owed back wages?

An online tool, called Workers Owed Wages (WOW), allows employees to enter their information and see if there are any back wages owed to them.

The website can be used in English and Spanish. If youre are owed money, youll be contacted by the Wage and Hour Division office for check collection.

As of January, 1,584 Kansas workers are owed a combined total of $1,026,639.32 in unclaimed back wages, according to a DOL spokesperson.

The department holds unclaimed funds for three years. After those three years are up, the money is turned over to the U.S. Department of Treasury.

To use the DOLs portal, you first search for your employer, enter your name, fill out your contact information and upload a signed form with your social security card, taxpayer identification card, drivers license, W-2 and pay stub.
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed back on Monday after speculation that a new release of Gaza hostages was in the works, saying Israel was taking an unspecified initiative in the absence of an offer by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

"There is no real proposal by Hamas. It's not true," a statement from Netanyahu's office quoted him as telling representatives of hostage families after some relatives stormed a committee session in parliament, demanding a release deal.

"I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you," Netanyahu added. "Conversely, there is an initiative on our part, on which I shall not elaborate."

The Netanyahu government argues that an Israeli offensive, launched in retalation for the cross-border Hamas killing and kidnapping spree of Oct. 7, is necessary to pressure the Palestinian captors into releasing hostages on acceptable terms.

But many of the relatives worry the hostages may be killed.

(Writing by Dan Williams; Editing by Kate Holton)
EXETER, N.H.  The departure of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis from the GOP presidential race is firing up Nikki Haley and her supporters.

Haleys final event of the day  a rally in a high school auditorium with television host Judge Judy  came several hours after DeSantis exit.

"Can you hear that sound?" Haley asked as she began her remarks. "Thats the sound of a two-person race."

DeSantis announcement may not do much to shake up the competition; the Republican politician's support in New Hampshire was down to the single digits. But the collapse of his campaign did energize Haley backers two days before the Jan. 23 primary.

She is now the last candidate standing against former President Donald Trump in the race for the GOP nomination.

DeSantis drops out of 2024 race: Florida governor says voters 'want to give Trump another chance'

'Please, New Hampshire. Use your brains, and your heart'

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu warmed up the crowd. Haleys campaign tossed out T-shirts. A young Haley supporter bounced from side to side on stage to song "Holding out for a Hero."

Daytime TV host Judith Sheindlin, 81, commonly known as Judge Judy, came on stage and called Haley a star.

"Im not here to bash the competition, although Im perfectly capable of doing that," Sheindlin said to cheers. "Suffice it to say that when you teach a child not to put their hand over a flame, you do that because you know theyre going to get burned. Well, weve gotten burned."

An audience member interrupted the remarks, shouting at Sheindlin: "Send Trump to prison."

Sheindlin, who endorsed Haley earlier this month, traveled from Florida on Sunday to boost Haley in Exeter.

"Please, New Hampshire. Use your brains and your heart," she said. "Bring her home on Tuesday."

The pair shared a hug before Sheindlin left the stage.

"How cool is it to have Judge Judy endorse you? It really is," Haley said. "Shes a trailblazer. Shes tough. She speaks hard truths. She doesnt mince words."

Judge Judy Sheindlin speaks at a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley at Exeter High School in Exeter, N.H. on Jan 21, 2024, during preparations for the New Hampshire presidential primary.

Sheindlin on Haley: 'Chaos doesnt follow her'

In an interview before the event, Sheindlin told USA TODAY she contacted Haley almost a year ago when the former U.N. ambassador was still just a rumored candidate for president.

Sheindlin says she reached out to Haley back then because she was impressed with her and wanted to get to know her better.

"Shes level, shes poised, she has executive experience, she has international gravitas, and chaos doesnt follow her. And shes cognitively together," she said.

Haley is "totally focused" on her job, she said. "Trump is pulled in civil court, criminal court. Financially, hes facing hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties. Hes chaotic. Now, he may thrive on it  the country needs a level leader."

Attendees hope to catch t-shirts thrown into the audience before Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley speaks at a rally at Exeter High School in Exeter, N.H. on Jan 21, 2024, during preparations for the New Hampshire presidential primary.

'I will beat Donald Trump and Joe Biden'

Trump was wooing voters at an event of his own at the Rochester Opera House. He was laudatory at the rally of his newest endorser.

"He ran a really good campaign. I will tell you - it's not easy," Trump said of DeSantis. "You think it's easy doing this stuff, it's not easy."

Trump was not nearly as kind to Haley. For the second night in a row, he hit her on border security, trade policy with China, and the fact she is appealing to independent voters in New Hampshire.

On Saturday night, he brought South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on stage with him in Manchester, New Hampshire. McMaster said at the event that the "vast majority" of people in Haley's home state want Trump.

Haley hit back on Sunday night.

"What do you say about the fact that the governor of South Carolina came to New Hampshire to campaign against you? And I would say, you mean the guy that I beat when I ran for governor?" she said to cheering. "Yeah, thats what I thought."

Madbury resident Dan Holmes, 51, said Haley has shown "good character" throughout the campaign and his entire family is supporting her. DeSantis' exit should help her on Tuesday, said the software company worker.

"It will narrow the field a little bit," Holmes added. "He was not gaining momentum in this state. This is a super important state to demonstrate your abilities as a candidate. To show that you can develop a relationship with the voters. And he hadn't really shown much ability of that."

Haley gave extended remarks on national security in Exeter, in place of her traditional stump speech, promising to recoup land that Chinese companies have purchased in the U.S. and end normal trade relations until Xi Jinpings government "stops murdering Americans."

"Don't let Biden tell you that China's a competitor," she said. "They never saw us as a competitor: they always saw us an enemy. We've got to start looking at them they way they look at us."

Haley was at one point interrupted by a protester who held up a yellow sign calling her an "oil sellout." She said in Exeter, as she did at a previous New Hampshire event, that she is always happy to see a protester because her deployed husband, Michael, and other service members are putting their lives on the line for their freedom of speech.

"I will beat Donald Trump and Joe Biden," she pledged. "We can do this. Together we can do this."

Contributing: David Jackson

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nikki Haley energizes supporters ahead of New Hampshire primary
Manjari Bose was channel surfing at her home in South Barrington, Illinois, last week when she came across a biography of Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley and learned she was of Indian descent.

Her immediate reaction?

To call her two children  an investment banker and a software engineer, both in their 20s  to tell them to up their game.

More: Nikki Haley's supporters brace for nail-biter against Donald Trump after Ron DeSantis drops out

"Nikki Haley is just like you," Bose, who moved to the US from the Indian state of West Bengal in 1995, told her kids. "She was raised by immigrant parents and look at all that she's achieved."

"All the immigrants' kids in this country have such opportunity, the sky is the limit, but somehow these kids don't strive or don't work hard or take things for granted," she says. "I am so impressed by her work ethic and the way she worked at her family business at a young age."

Manjari Bose

Going farther than Kamala Harris and Vivek Ramaswamy

Bose might be a "Bengal Tiger Mom" but the inspiration many Indian Americans draw from seeing one their own vying for the highest office in the country echoes throughout the community.

When Nikki Haleys family moved to Bamberg, South Carolina, in 1969, they were the only Indian family in the town of about 2,500 residents.

She would go on to make history as the first female governor of South Carolina and the first Indian American to be appointed to a cabinet-level position as Donald Trump's ambassador to the United Nations in 2016.

I am the proud daughter of Indian immigrants who reminded my brothers, my sister and me every single day how blessed we were to live in this country, said Haley, as she announced her presidential campaign last February.

More: Nikki Haley says America was never racist. Her memoir tells a trickier story

Now shes making history again, this time by going further in the primary race than any Indian American presidential candidate.

Although Vice President Kamala Harris, the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, made history as the first Indian American vice president, her 2020 presidential run ended before the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries. Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, the other Indian American 2024 candidate  and a dogged opponent of Haley's  dropped out after Iowa.

Head-to-head with Donald Trump

Now that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has suspended his hard-luck campaign just before Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, Haley will be going head-to-head with her former boss on Tuesday in the Granite State.

Republican presidential candidate former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, second left, accompanied by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, left, meets with diners at the Beach Plum in Epping, N.H., Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) ORG XMIT: NHMR150

"Can you hear that sound?" Haley told supporters Monday. "Thats the sound of a two-person race."

As his former ambassador has risen in the polls, Trump has turned his venom on Haley. "Nimbra.... doesn't have what it takes," Trump wrote on his social media platform earlier this week, mangling her first name. He also reposted a false claim that Haley is ineligible to run for president.

More: Nikki Haley gets boost from Judge Judy at New Hampshire rally: 'Sound of a two-person race'

A rough road for Sikh Americans

For a population that is less than 2% of the U.S. population, and whose numbers only began to swell in the early 2000s, it's remarkable how quickly Indian Americans have risen in politics, said Karthick Ramakrishnan, professor of public policy and political science at the University of California, Riverside.

The former governor's rise as a Republican candidate is also noteworthy because "Indian Americans, for the most part, identify with the Democratic Party over the Republican Party," Ramakrishnan said.

Haley's candidacy is historic not only because of her country of descent but also for her Sikh upbringing. Her father, who wears a turban, was the president of a local Sikh temple in South Carolina. Born Nimarata Nikki Randhawa, Haley was raised in the Sikh faith. She later converted to Christianity before her wedding to Michael Haley at age 26.

While Haley is widely celebrated for having made history as an Indian American, some in the Sikh community, which has borne the heavy burden of bigotry in the post 9/11 US, feel ambivalent about what her success means to the community: The first person to be killed in a hate crime four days after 9/11 was a turbaned Sikh who was mistaken for a Muslim man. In 2012, the Wisconsin Sikh temple mass shooting claimed seven lives.

Assimilation vs belonging

Vishavjit Singh, a political cartoonist, activist and co-director of the short film American Sikh, says while he believes Haley's success highlights the fact that more and more South Asians can aspire to be in positions of political power, he wonders if things would have been different if she'd held on to her original faith.

"Would she have the same success as an outwardly practicing Sikh woman? Would she be where she's today?" he asked. "Personally, it is not about assimilation. It is about being included and belonging into the American fabric without having to give up something of your heritage to be seen or accepted as American."

Still, he's hopeful.

"We are bound to see turbaned Sikh Americans in Congress and high political offices in the near future," he says.

Indian values, American values

Dinesh Lokhande, 60, of Westford, Massachusetts, said he believes Haley represents Indian values.

I feel proud that she has come to this level. Most Indians are very pragmatic, centrist, well informed and take rational decisions," he said.

Dinesh Lokhande with Nikki Haley

Waiting in line to meet Haley after a rally in Nashua, New Hampshire, Aswin Guntupalli, 38, brought his 11-year-old daughter to the event to show her what is possible.

Haley is fighting to be president of the United States, said Guntupalli, who is based in Massachusetts. That is possible here. I hope she gets inspired by this."

Sudiksha Kochi is a Congress, Campaigns and Democracy reporter at USA TODAY.

Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X @SwapnaVenugopal

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Indian Americans hail Nikki Haley's political ascent and 'work ethic'
GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley groups former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden in the same category: bad.

In the interview with CNNs Dana Bash on Sunday, Haley questioned whether Trump and Biden had too many issues surrounding them that just distracted them from being effective leaders, including the rivals ages, the numerous investigations against Trump, as well as investigations into Bidens son, Hunter.

Youve got a country in disarray, youve got a world on fire and youre going to focus on people who hurt your feelings? Youre going to focus on investigations that are involved with your families? Youre going to focus on vengeance, Haley said of the two presidential rivals.

Bash then pushed Haley to answer whether one of them was better than the other.

If either one of them was good, I wouldnt be running. Yes, they are equally bad, Haley said.

Thats why Im running, she added. I dont think we need to have Biden or Trump. I dont think we need to have two 80-year-olds sitting in the White House when we basically gotta make sure that we can handle the war situation that were in.

Haleys comments echo a concern that political science experts have about the advanced age of many people in Congress and in the White House, including presidents, according to NPRs reporting. Biden is 80 years old and Trump is 77.

Kevin Munger, political science professor at Penn State University, told NPR that ailing health, lagging technological skills and cultural differences are a part of the problem of having a large number of leaders in advanced ages.

Theres just no way for people in older generations who experienced the early part of their life cycle in a very different time period to understand where young people are coming from, Munger told NPR.

At a rally on Saturday in Keene, New Hampshire, Haley again called out Trumps age after he seemingly confused her with Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) during his speech one day earlier. In response to the mix up, Haley said it appeared that Trump was not as sharp as he used to be.

Trump told his supporters at his Manchester, New Hampshire, rally on Saturday that he aced a cognitive test recently and that his mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago.

Haley is now competing one-on-one with Trump for the GOP presidential nomination after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign and endorsed Trump on Sunday.

Related...
GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley said former President Donald Trump regularly tried to buddy up with dictators while he was in the Oval Office, pointing to his longstanding praise of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his support of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Haley, Trumps last remaining major competitor after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race Sunday, made the comments as the two up their attacks against each other ahead of Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. Haley has increasingly blasted Trumps mental fitness, questioned his and President Joe Bidens age and warned about the chaos he courts.

In an interview with Face the Nation Sunday, she said America was tired of the former presidents magnetism toward conflict.

I remember at the United Nations, I had to sit him down and tell him to stop this bromance with Putin, Haley, who served as the U.S. ambassador to the UN under Trump, said. I mean, you cant have someone whos trying to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us. Instead, you have to let them know what we expect of them.

.@NikkiHaley is releasing a campaign ad with the mother of Otto Warmbier, a University of Virginia student who was imprisoned in North Korea and later died during Donald Trump's presidency.



About Trump in office, she says, "You can't have someone who is trying to buddy up with pic.twitter.com/WUzfBgeC65  Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) January 21, 2024

She pointed to the death of American student Otto Warmbier in 2017, who was imprisoned in North Korea during her tenure at the UN. Haley said she was in regular contact with his parents after the country convicted him of trying to steal a poster from his hotel and sentenced him to 15 years in prison.

I worked with Cindy and Fred Warmbier. Theyre amazing people, Haley recounted Sunday. I told Fred and Cindy, speak up. Get loud. Make sure. I will help you. Lets partner. Were going to call North Korea out.

But what did Trump do? Instead, he talked about love letters going back and forth to Kim Jong Un.

Warmbier was ultimately returned to the U.S. in a vegetative state and died just days later.

No matter what it is, chaos follows him, Haley repeated to host Margaret Brennan about Trump. Rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him.
[Source]

Nikki Haley is banking on her chances of beating Joe Biden in November as she becomes Donald Trumps final adversary for the GOP nomination.

Catch up: Haley is now going head-to-head against former President Trump after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis withdrew his bid for the Republican presidential nomination on Sunday. The former U.N. ambassador and the former U.S. president will square off in the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.

What shes saying: Haley asserts that she is a safer bet than Trump for the general election. Several polls have shown that the former South Carolina governor could beat President Joe Biden, including one that found her 19 points ahead. Last week, a CBS/YouGov poll showed Haley defeating Biden by eight points (53% to 45%) among likely voters.

All the evidence says that if its a Trump-Biden rematch, its going to be another tossup election. It could go either way, Haley said after last weeks Iowa caucus. And then look at what happens when I go head-to-head against Biden. We win in a landslide. Its not even close.

Trending on NextShark: Model of Ukrainian descent becomes Miss Japan 2024, sparking debate

Why New Hampshire matters to Haley: A New Hampshire victory will help Haley build momentum for the rest of the primaries. The Granite State has a unique demographic that includes a large number of independent voters, whom she believes will help her beat Trump.

A Marist poll released on Friday showed Biden beating Trump by seven points (52% to 45%) in a hypothetical match-up in New Hampshire. Haley, however, beat Biden by three points (47% to 44%).

Challenges: While DeSantis exit has left Haley the lone person to challenge Trump, he  as well as former candidates Vivek Ramaswamy and Tim Scott  has also endorsed the former president. A CNN poll out on Sunday also showed Trump with an 11-point lead over Haley (50% to 39%) in New Hampshire.

Trending on NextShark: Viral video of Chinese tourists' confrontation with UK pianist sparks debate

Haley, who is Indian American, also stirred controversy last week after stating that the U.S. was never a racist country. She later defended her comments to CNNs Jake Tapper, claiming that she actually experienced plenty of racism and that her statement was based on the Founding Fathers intention that all men are created equal.

What Trump is saying: Trump on Friday repeatedly called Haley Nimbra on his Truth Social page  a misspelling of her birth name, Nimrata Nikki Randhawa. He has also called her Nimrada and birdbrain and falsely accused her of being ineligible to run for the White House.

Trending on NextShark: Kyte Baby CEO under fire for denying employee remote work while her baby was in NICU

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NEWMARKET, N.H.  New Englanders have a saying about the weather: If you dont like it, just wait a few minutes, and its bound to change. The same can be said for presidential politics in the snow-covered region.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropping out of the 2024 Republican presidential race and endorsing former President Donald Trump was the latest twist to shift the dynamics of the election less than 48 hours before New Hampshires first-in-the-nation primary.

Now, what was once a crowded, 14-candidate GOP field is a two-person battle between Trump and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. And the fate of the Republican primary could depend on New Hampshire voters.

Haley, who in November garnered the endorsement of the states popular Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, is betting everything on winning, or at least coming in a close second, in Tuesdays primary.

The odds arent in her favor. Trump led Haley 55% to 36% in a Suffolk University/Boston Globe/NBC-10 tracking poll conducted in the state between January 18 and January 19.

And DeSantis exit may bolster Trumps lead. Nearly 60% of the Florida governors likely voters said Trump was their second choice in the poll.

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley speaks at a rally at Exeter High School in Exeter, N.H. on Jan 21, 2024, during preparations for the New Hampshire presidential primary

Haleys campaign, however, is hoping that DeSantis exit will give her a boost with undecided anti-Trump voters in these final hours before New Hampshire's primary, which has long had the power to reshape a presidential race.

In an effort to court Granite State voters, shes leaning into her differences with the ex-president while continuing to flaunt her conservative credentials.

This comes down to what do you want?, Haley asked a rowdy crowd of voters packed into a Seabrook lobster shack on Sunday. Do you want more of the same? Or do you want something new?

A 'steep hill'

As Haley tries to reach crucial independent and moderate voting blocs, some voters in New Hampshire told USA TODAY they're angry that many former presidential candidates, including DeSantis and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., are rallying around the business mogul.

And Joe Blandini, 53, said DeSantis departure will make it more difficult for Haley to beat Trump, because now, shes the only one attacking the ex-president.

The medical device company executive doubted whether Haley could pull together enough support to outperform Trump.

It was such a landslide in Iowa that she really would need to take New Hampshire in my opinion, in order for her to survive, Blandini said. It stinks, but I think she is going have a pretty steep hill to climb.

Haleys team has long dismissed polls that show Trump with a steady lead, and they doubled down on those claims Sunday.

The day I got elected governor, the polls said I was going to lose by 11 points. I won by two. Sununu declared during a stop at a fried seafood restaurant in Hampton shortly before DeSantis dropped out. No offense to the pollsters, but it's the voters that matter.

Two visions

Some Haleys most ardent supporters arent convinced by the statistics either.

Republican presidential hopeful and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley holds up two fingers as she speaks at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire, on January 21, 2024. Haley addressed the news of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis dropping out of the race, gesturing to indicate that it is now a two person race.

Jeannie St. Germain, 86, went so far as to describe DeSantis departure as a big victory" for Haley.

St. Germain, who hails from Hampton, said she wasnt concerned about Haleys chances in New Hampshire and instead following one of the next major contests on the Republican calendar: South Carolina.

"In South Carolina, DeSantis was taking some of the votes away from her," Germain said. "This way, I think she has a great chance of taking" the Palmetto State.

Amy Blandini, Joe Blandinis wife, said she's optimistic that, without DeSantis in the mix, Haley will consolidate enough anti-Trump voters to notch a win on Tuesday. She described the Republican race as about the beauty and the beast."

Rather than splitting the vote, if people dont want Trump, theyll vote for her, Amy Blandini, a massage therapist, said.

She dismissed her husbands concerns that DeSantis endorsement of Trump would hurt Haley.

Youd be embarrassed to bring your children or your families to see that man, she said. If that's who people want as the president of the United States, that speaks volumes.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Haley voters brace for fight with Trump after DeSantis drops out
A north Georgia councilwoman is behind bars after officials say she was arrested on drug-related charges.

Georgia Bureau of Investigation officials said 43-year-old Roshuanda Merritt of Commerce was arrested Friday after officials learned she was distributing marijuana from her home.

According to the investigation, in Dec. 2023, the Jackson County Sheriffs Office received allegations of Merritt distributing marijuana. Officials contacted the GBI to conduct the investigation.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As a result of the investigation, GBI officials said Merritt was arrested and charged with a criminal attempt to commit the sale of marijuana and use of a telecommunication facility to facilitate a felony.

In late 2023, Merritt was elected as the Commerce Ward 5 Councilwoman, according to the City of Commerce website.

When asked about Merritts arrest, City of Commerce Assistant City Manager Matthew Hailey sent Channel 2 Action News the following statement:

Because this matter involves an open and ongoing investigation, the City of Commerce has no comment at this time.

TRENDING STORIES:

No further information surrounding Merritts arrest has been released.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
The Florida governor, center, attends the opening of Governor Ron DeSantis Park, in Manatee County, with local leaders. The park opened Oct. 18, 2023.

History lesson for Haley

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley proclaimed that America has never been a racist country! Gov. Ron DeSantis agreed! Neither Haley nor DeSantis has ever attended my U.S. history class. They cannot blame me for their ignorance.

Write to us: How to send a letter to the editor

Lets begin!

Dredd Scott, 1857: A free Black man lost his freedom via a Supreme Court decision.

Chinese Exclusion Act, 1882: Passed by Congress, signed by President Chester A. Arthur, to address job concerns and maintain white racial purity.

Dawes Act, 1887: Native Americans could only vote if they surrendered their land and tribal affiliations.

Takao Ozawa v. United States, 1922: Persons of Japanese descent were insufficiently white to qualify for citizenship.

United States v. Bhagat Singh Thind, 1923: The Supreme Court declared persons of Indian descent, even high caste Hindus, ineligible for citizenship because they could not be legally recognized as white persons.

Mexican Repatriation 1929-1936: More than 1 million Mexicans, many of them American-born, were rounded up and deported to help reserve jobs for white people.

Gov. Ron DeSantis, 2023: Implied that racism and slavery were not totally bad things because they gave slaves opportunities to develop skills that would benefit them later in life.

Doug McClaugherty, Sarasota

Disaster ahead if Trump gets second chance

Will the American electorate catch on in time to save the nation and the world from a disaster?

What more do the citizens of this great nation need to know before they recognize the peril that another presidential term for former President Donald Trump will produce?

The potential: Giving Ukraine to Russian President Vladimir Putin, dismantling the 30-plus NATO European buffer, condoning authoritarian leadership and forgoing the recognition of America as the bastion of liberal democracy and an empathic partner in assisting all nations.

There indeed is a slippery slope from democracy to autocracy in our future if we give Trump another chance at demagoguery. Trump is a true threat to this nation and the worlds stability.

Its time to do ones homework, recognize the severity of the situation, convince the naysayers with facts and vote for sanity.

Al Mahan, Sarasota

Dont put democracy to the test

I question columnist Jonathan Turleys conviction that our institutions can defend against anti-democratic forces (Is democracy really in peril in 2024? I trust that our system will endure, Jan. 15).

"Democracy" is an abstract term that might be a vague concept for many. A more concrete representation of democracy is the ability to vote and know that votes are accurately counted  and that your voice is heard.

When governors make laws that restrict voting by decreasing polling places, eliminating drop boxes and curtailing mail-in ballots, they effectively limit the voting rights of eligible voters.

When corrupt leaders attempt to falsify election results with fake electors, ask officials to find votes, or attempt to disrupt the counting of electoral votes, democracy is imperiled.

When citizens lose faith in the accuracy of elections, democracy dies.

When a candidate predicts rigged elections before any votes are cast, he is preparing his excuses for losing in advance.

When a loser files 60 cases in objection to the results and loses them all, and several states recount the votes by hand with the same result, the candidate and voters must acknowledge the validity of the election.

Mr. Turley may be right, but I dont want to live through four years of chaos and potential violence to prove it.

Vote to save your vote.

Donna Brua, Port Charlotte

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Haley, DeSantis must have skipped history class on slavery
A relative newcomer to local politics is now leading the Republican Party of Polk County.

Members voted Jan. 15 to elect Jim Powers of Lakeland as chair of the partys Executive Committee. Jim Guth, who gained election last year, resigned about two months ago because of health factors, he told The Ledger.

Al Goldstein of Lake Wales, the first vice chairman, served as interim chair following Guths resignation. Party leaders organized an election the night of Jan. 15 to choose a permanent chair.

Goldstein, a former Lake Wales city commissioner, said that the first ballot resulted in a tie between him and Powers, with 42 votes each. On the second ballot, Powers achieved a narrow victory.

Powers, 63, is an information technology professional who only became involved with the local party following the 2020 presidential election. He became chair of the partys election integrity committee, focusing on perceived vulnerabilities in state and national election systems.

Powers, married and the father of three adults, said he has lived in Lakeland since 2001. He grew up in La Grange, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

Jim Powers of Lakeland was elected Jan. 15 as chair of the Polk County Republican Party Executive Committee.

Republicans lead Democrats by more than 41,000 in voter registrations in Polk County. Democrats held the advantage as recently as 2017. Powers suggested that he is not satisfied with the current Republican margin.

I want to grow our party in Polk, he said. Id like to expand it significantly. Id like to expand our registration, our turnouts. Believe me, I'm an older person myself, so I respect the older voters, I'm in their group. But I think there's a great opportunity to expand our base among younger voters, and among our Hispanic and Black Americans who live in Polk County.

J.C. Martin held the county partys top position from 2016 until last year, when Guth gained election. Guth, a Poinciana resident, had served as party chair immediately before Martin.

'Tipping point'

Powers called the 2020 election a tipping point that prompted him to become involved with the local Republican Party. He said he became chair of the election integrity committee last year.

Powers made it clear that he will focus largely on election security. He said that he became concerned while watching news coverage of the 2020 presidential election and it appeared that elections officials in five swing states had ceased counting ballots.

I was horrified, Powers said. Im a career IT person, and I knew something was not right. So I decided I have to get off the couch and do something. And so it was election integrity that was the primary motivator to get me involved after the 2020 election.

Former President Donald Trump has claimed that the 2020 election was rigged or stolen. A range of courts rejected virtually all of his complaints about the election, and the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency declared that the election was the most secure in American history.

Election '24: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ends presidential campaign, endorses Trump

Trumps own former attorney general, William Barr, has stated that Trumps claims of election fraud were false. Two of Trumps former lawyers pleaded guilty to election interference in Georgia. One of them, Sidney Powell, said that no reasonable person would regard her fraud claims as factual.

But Trump, now campaigning for a return to the White House, continues to insist that he won the 2020 election, without providing detailed evidence to support the claim. Polls show that a large majority of Republicans do not believe that President Joe Biden legitimately won the election.

Powers left no doubt that he also questions the outcome of the 2020 election.

I do not think it was legitimate, and I've spent three years studying it, he said I've taken lots of deep dives. I've read many books. I've contacted election integrity experts in the state. I've listened to countless hours of podcasts, and I'm a technology person myself, so I can understand the reasonings behind people saying these things.

Powers pointed to thousands of affidavits signed by citizens who claimed they had witnessed fraud. He cited the book A Parallel Election, by Gregory Stenstrom and Leah Hoopes, saying it proved that election officials broke every single law imaginable to alter the results for Biden.

He also cited the reporting of Jim Hoft on Gateway Pundit, a conservative political site. Two election workers in Georgia have sued the site for defamation over Hofts claims that they engaged in election fraud.

A return to paper ballots, counted by hand?

In focusing on perceived weaknesses in election processes, Powers favors conducting elections with hand counts of paper ballots, rather than the electronic tabulation machines now used in Polk County and throughout Florida. He said that members of the Polk County Republican Executive Committee are almost unanimous in supporting the idea.

Powers and other local Republicans pressed the issue at a public forum with the Polk County legislative delegation in October. He said he supports a proposed bill (HB 359) that would give county elections officers the option of counting ballots by hand at the precinct level.

Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill, has sponsored a Senate companion bill. So far, none of Polk Countys legislators are co-sponsors of either bill.

I know it's an issue that we need to try to gain more traction on, but I think it's an important one, Powers said. And this was my primary driver in getting involved more deeply with the Republican Party.

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Mark Earley, supervisor of elections for Leon County, told The Ledger in October that hand counts are slower and costlier than machine counts. He said multiple studies have found hand counts to be less accurate.

Powers, again drawing upon his IT experience, said he has no doubt that electronic voting machines are vulnerable to manipulation  either by hackers or by someone with nefarious intentions programming code into it. He said the testing of software in electronic voting machines is inadequate.

Elections supervisors have said that the tabulation devices do not connect to the internet and therefore cannot be hacked.

'It's not the only issue'

Powers said he realizes that as party chair he cannot direct his attention only to concerns about election processes.

I know it's not the only issue, he said. This is what was my initial motivator, but I know as the chairman of the REC, there are many other issues we need to focus on, and I will. Again, my job as the chairman of the REC is to try to help qualified Republicans get elected. I mean, its as simple as that. I intend to do that.

When Powers assumed his position, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was running for president, competing against Trump, also a Florida resident, in the Republican primaries. Powers emphasized that as chair of the local party he must remain neutral in any Republican primary election. But on Sunday, DeSantis bowed out of the race and endorsed Trump.

Republicans have utterly dominated elections in Polk County for most of this century. No Democrat residing in Polk has been elected to a partisan county or state position in more than a decade.

As of Friday, no Democrat had filed to run in multiple county and legislative races.

Gary White can be reached at gary.white@theledger.com or 863-802-7518. Follow on X @garywhite13.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: New Polk GOP leader will focus on election security, growing the party
Cindy Lao's line dance was destroyed by gunfire a year ago, but her spirit wasn't.

On Sunday, the one-year anniversary of the deadliest mass shooting in modern Los Angeles County history, Lao led a small group of people onto a makeshift dance floor at World Seafood Restaurant. The Alhambra eatery was hosting a banquet for survivors of the Monterey Park mass shooting.

"I was fortunate," said Lao, a dance instructor at Star Ballroom Dance Studio, the site of the massacre. "I feel lucky I can live today. And tonight, I was dancing for the 11 people who left us that evening, with a heavy heart and deep sadness."

On Jan. 21, 2023, on the eve of Lunar New Year, Star Ballroom was packed with patrons. "The Light Rain in March," a Chinese song, was playing over the speakers as Lao led a dance near the front entrance. When gunshots erupted, many thought it was celebratory firecrackers, but the awful reality soon became evident. Lao saw a couple drop to the floor before she, too, dove down and hid under a pile of balloons.

Eleven people were killed and nine others injured in the attack.

A year later, Lao and many others who were at Star Ballroom that night, stepped back onto the dance floor, swaying again to the same song.

People dance during the one-year anniversary of the Monterey Park mass shooting. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

While the shooting left a permanent mark on the mostly Asian enclave, the tragedy also has sparked discussions about mental health among Asian American and Pacific Islanders as well as created a lifelong bond among the 40 or so survivors. Some have channeled their trauma by advocating for gun control reform, while others have found strength in a return to dance.

Lloyd Gock, who survived the shooting, came up with the idea for the 150-person banquet. After the tragedy, Gock formed a support group for survivors, who started meeting regularly to talk about what they were going through.

Gock told himself that if they made it through the year, they would celebrate together.

"Tonight, I'm seeing a lot of people out here who were there that night and are dancing here again," Gock told the crowd. "That's the message: Nothing  no gun or anything  else can kill our spirit for dancing."

Read more: Healing a shattered community: Monterey Park shooting survivors return to dance

Across the city, the effects of the tragedy can still be felt a year later. The MPK Hope Resiliency Center in Sierra Vista Park has held more than 300 workshops since it launched in August. The facility will relocate in April to a bigger space on Atlantic Boulevard to accommodate more counseling services, said Peter Ng, CEO of Chinatown Service Center, which runs the operation.

Ahead of the banquet, Ng and 19 other community leaders and local, state and federal officials gathered for a round-table discussion. Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, said the state is investing $50 million to address behavioral health issues, such as isolation and loneliness, among older residents.

"If we are going to have this healing and hope translate into real change for our community, we need to build those tools and support one another, he said.

Lloyd Gock stands outside Lai Lai Ballroom & Studio in Alhambra. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

The shooting has also ignited a push for more policies that address gun violence. Monterey Park has since passed a number of ordinances, such as one that restricts where gun dealers can sell weapons.

This shooter was deteriorating mentally and stockpiling ammunition. I am sure somebody saw it, but in our community, very few immigrants know about the red flag law, which allows firearms to be removed from those who have been deemed a threat to themselves or others, said Rep. Judy Chu. The legislator's district includes Monterey Park, and she has introduced a federal bill to provide translation services about the gun control issue.

Read more: As a reporter, I'd braced myself to cover mass shootings. My first was in my own community

To honor the victims, officials also held a candlelit vigil at Monterey Park City Hall, where surviving family members chanted the sutras  words of the Buddha  to bring peace and harmony and heaven. Nearby, a neon sign showed a couple dancing above the phrase United We Dance.

Kristenne Reidy, whose father, Valentino Alvero, was killed in the shooting, told the crowd gathered on the lawn that for months, she couldn't stomach going to a party, especially one that involved singing and dancing.

But a few weeks ago at a dinner the city hosted for families of the victims, Reidy ventured onto the dance floor. Her three young daughters came with her.

I can almost hear my dad say, See Kristenne? It runs in the family,  Reidy said.

Mourners gather for a vigil outside City Hall on Sunday for the anniversary of the Monterey Park mass shooting. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Jim Goodman was dancing near the back of Star Ballroom with Hattie Peng when the shooting started last year. A military veteran and a retired police officer, Goodman quickly pulled Peng down to the floor and shielded her with his body. The attack sent one bullet through Goodman's left foot and another into his back. Peng was physically unharmed.

After he was shot, Goodman tried to pull another man down to the floor, but he was too weak. He later found out the man, Andy Kao, died in the shooting.

It's taken nearly a year for Goodman to recover from his injuries. When his doctor finally took the cast off Goodman's leg and looked at the X-rays, he told him he would never dance again. The bullet had taken out a chunk of bone, and he thought it would be too difficult for Goodman to move on the leg.

"That was his opinion," Goodman said. "I said to myself even then, 'I think I'll be able to dance again.' That was my opinion."

On Sunday, the 77-year-old proved his doctor wrong when he danced with Peng at World Seafood Restaurant. He said he doesn't move as well but it feels good to be back on the dance floor.

"When one thing happens, you just go forward. You don't go backward. It's not gonna help you," he said.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A security guard at an East Village church slashed in the throat after asking a stranger to stop urinating on a parked car was back at work a day later  sporting a gruesome scar from the wound that nearly killed him.

John Mach, 57, complained when he saw the stabber urinating on a car parked outside the Church of the Immaculate Conception on E. 14th St. near First Ave. about 5:05 p.m. on Sunday, cops said.

He was urinating and doing all sorts of nuisance, Mach told the Daily News on Monday in an exclusive interview. He was looking for problem. As a trained counselor, I can tell.

Mach said before he was slashed, the attacker, who he had never seen before, had been threatening him and his co-workers with the box cutter used in the assault.

My duty is to guard my church and keep everyone safe, Mach said. He did look like someone with a mental health problem and I did not want anyone to get in trouble,  He kept saying that hell slash me and my colleagues, but then he went away.

The troublemaker soon returned but wearing a different jacket, according to Mach. On Monday, cops released surveillance footage of the on-the-loose suspect in the second coat.

He was not wearing the red puffer jacket when he first threatened me and my colleagues, Mach explained. He was wearing a dark-colored jacket, jeans and a black cap.  After a while, he returned in the red jacket, which is why I could not recognize him.

That gave the attacker the chance to launch a surprise attack against an unwary Mach.

He just came and slashed my throat, the victim said.

Mach ran behind the suspect for a block, to E. 13th St., while his throat bled from the wound. He wrapped the thermal shirt he was wearing around his neck as a makeshift bandage. His attacker got away, but only after being smacked by good Samaritans trying to slow his escape, according to Mach.

I was not letting him go away like that after slashing me, Mach said. I tied a cloth around my neck to stop it from bleeding and ran after him. But he fled. I was told that he got hurt after fleeing, people hit him. Everyone knows me here, you know.

Mach was admitted to Beth Israel hospital, where he received 16 stitches to the long gash running nearly the entire length of the left side of his throat.

He was close to the arteries, Mach said. The NYPD said Mach was initially in critical condition, but Mach said he isnt ready for heaven yet.

God does not want me there so soon  so here I am, he said after returning to work Monday.

Cops are asking the publics help identifying the suspect and tracking him down.

See this and more Crime and Public Safety from the Daily News, more latest headlines, and more New York news

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidential.
ST. CHARLES, Mo.  An off-duty St. Charles firefighter/paramedic is being credited with saving the lives of two people who were trapped inside a mobile home fire.

The St. Charles City Fire Department received word of a fire just after 6:35 a.m. Sunday in the 1500 block of Santa Barbara Drive. Firefighters were told people were trapped inside a residence at the Town West Mobile Home Park.

A St. Charles City police officer and an off-duty firefighter/paramedic were the first to respond. The officer and firefighter opened the front door to the mobile home and were met with a wall of thick smoke, leaving only eight inches of clearance from the floor.

The firefighter, Kevin Drury, called out to see if anyone was still inside and heard two people yelling back. Drury, who was on his way to work but didnt have time to get his gear on, rushed into the burning mobile home and located a man on the floor.

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Drury pulled the man by the feet to the front door, where the police officer helped get the man to his feet and to safety.

Drury went back into the home and found a woman. He also dragged her to the front door. The police officer helped the woman get away from the burning residence.

Additional first responders had arrived by this time and began treating the victims. Both were taken to a local hospital.

Drury was brought to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation and released.

Firefighter/Paramedic Drurys actions this morning without a doubt saved the lives of these two residents, St. Charles Fire Chief George Sheets said. We are very thankful that he and the police officer did not suffer any major injuries.

Firefighters from the city fire department, Central County Fire and Rescue, and Cottleville Fire District put out the fire on the burning mobile home.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Chinese-built Kenya's Nairobi Expressway launches new exit to ease mobility

Xinhua) 10:12, January 22, 2024

NAIROBI, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese-built 27.1-km Nairobi Expressway on Saturday launched a new exit to ease the movement of vehicles in downtown sections of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, where most government offices are located.

The Haile Selassie exit has five toll lanes and construction started in July 2023. Kipchumba Murkomen, the cabinet secretary for Roads and Transport, said construction of the new exit was informed by the need for seamless vehicular movement from the Expressway into Nairobi's bustling central business district.

"The exit will make it possible to handle traffic flowing into the central business district which is also the seat of government where the office of the president, parliament and judiciary are located," Murkomen said.

Constructed under a public-private partnership model, the Nairobi Expressway connects Kenya's main airport located to the south of the capital to the upmarket Westlands business district.

The thoroughfare whose construction commenced in September 2020 and was completed in May 2022, has reduced travel time from Westlands to the main airport from two hours to twenty minutes.

According to Moja Expressway Company, the thoroughfare's operator, it has recorded a total traffic volume of 29 million so far, while its daily average traffic volume has increased from 10,000 trips to about 65,000 trips on weekdays, a six-fold increase.

The Nairobi Expressway, which has 15 entrances and 15 exits has more than 200,000 users who have subscribed to its electronic toll collection (ETC) service, according to the operator.

Murkomen noted that the Nairobi Expressway is a model for strategic partnership between government and private investors to help bridge infrastructure gaps in the country. He reiterated the government's commitment to improving the investment climate amid a quest to develop new highways and spur industrialization, commerce and regional integration.

Murkomen added that the government will shield investors from political risks and disclosed that plans are afoot to construct a new expressway through a public-private partnership model to connect Nairobi and neighboring rural towns.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A lawsuit filed Monday in Jefferson County claims a local gun store overlooked red flags when selling an AR-15-style rifle that was eventually used to kill five in the April mass shooting at Old National Bank.

The circuit court lawsuit is filed on behalf of six plaintiffs against Louisville gun shop River City Firearms.

The plaintiffs are: Julie Andersen, Jimmy Evans, Dana Mitchell and Stephanie "Dallas" Schwartz, who were all injured in the attack but survived; and the families of James Tutt and Joshua Barrick, who were killed.

Derrick Meyers founded River City Firearms at 2915 Preston Highway in October 2015, per its articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State.

The Courier Journal contacted River City Firearms regarding the lawsuit filing, but did not receive a response.

Louisville attorney Tad Thomas of Thomas Law Offices, along with Antonio Romanucci of Romanucci & Blandin in Chicago and Alla Lefkowitz of the national group Everytown Law, represent the plaintiffs, who are seeking compensatory and punitive damages.

Romanucci & Blandin currently represent victims of the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting, where 19 fourth-grade students were killed, along with three adults, in May 2022.

The firm has won successful verdicts in cases brought by the families of George Floyd and Tyre Nichols, who were killed by police.

Everytown Law is a group of national litigators focused on holding gun manufacturers and sellers accountable through the court system. Lefkowitz is Everytown's senior director of litigation.

Workers replace glass on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, damaged by Monday's mass shooting, which killed five people and injured nine, including two Louisville Metro Police officers in downtown Louisville, Ky.

Lawsuits against the gun industry are affected by a federal law.

In 2005, President George W. Bush signed the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, giving the gun industry immunity if their gun is used in a crime. (Kentucky had a similar law enacted in 1988. The state gun immunity law was deemed unconstitutional in 1991, but the federal law takes precedent.)

There are exceptions to the 2005 law, though, including negligence on the part of a seller, which is what the suit is alleging.

The Courier Journal reported in November about the lawyers' intentions to file suit against Radical Firearms, the Texas-based gun manufacturer, and Thomas said that is still possible, but for now, River City Firearms is the focus.

"A lot of (this complaint) is based upon the information we received from the Louisville Metro Police file, and what was missing from the file was any investigation into the manufacturer," Thomas said. "It's not necessarily a shift, but we want to make sure that we file strong cases, and the case against the River City is very strong.

"So that was the first one to be filed, but it may not be the last one."

This is not the first time a lawsuit has been brought against a gun seller, although "they are not very common," Lefkowitz told The Courier Journal.

During a Tuesday press conference regarding the lawsuit, Louisville attorney Hans Poppe said he was planning to file a "substantially similar" complaint on behalf of the families of Juliana Farmer and Tommy Elliott, who were both killed in the mass shooting.

Karen Tutt speaks about her late husband, Jim Tutt, who was killed in the April 2023 Old National Bank mass shooting in Louisville. Jan. 22, 2024

The Courier Journal spoke with plaintiff Karen Tutt, whose husband Jim was running low on fuel the morning of April 10, but decided not to stop for gas.

"I wish he had," Karen Tutt said.

Instead, Jim was in the bank conference room during a monthly sales meeting and was shot and killed. Karen Tutt said for the last six months she's been in a fog, but she hopes the lawsuit brings accountability.

"I feel like I have to honor Jim," she said. "There has to be a purpose in the pain."

Suspicious behavior, lack of firearms knowledge

According to the LMPD report, River City Firearms sold an AR-15-style rifle on April 4, 2023, to Connor Sturgeon, 25, an Old National Bank employee, who pulled the rifle from a gym bag on April 10 and opened fire on fellow employees during a monthly sales meeting at Old National Bank's downtown office. (The bank has since relocated its office.)

The complaint alleges "red flags were present in spades" when River City Firearms sold the AR-15 to Sturgeon, citing his suspicious behavior and lack of basic firearms knowledge.

Sturgeon told the clerk he wanted a firearm because a friend's home had recently been burglarized, per his own notes that were included in LMPD's November report  "indicating that he wanted to buy an AR-15 for home defense, a use for which an AR-15 is particularly poorly suited for a novice shooter," the complaint states.

River City Firearms on Preston Highway in Louisville, Ky.

The complaint also mentions a witness who was inside River City Firearms during Sturgeon's purchase and who said he "demonstrated a complete lack of knowledge or experience with firearms and that he spoke in an unusually quiet tone and appeared embarrassed upon making eye contact with others, lowering his head and averting his gaze."

Sturgeon's interactions at River City Firearms left "such an impression" on the woman that after his 20 minutes at the store, she considered calling police.

"Louisville is a big, small town," Thomas said. "The woman who was at the gun shop was familiar with some of the people that worked at Old National Bank, so that is how the name got over to us.

"We interviewed her, and frankly, it was shocking that someone who doesn't sell firearms for a living would be able to recognize immediately that someone like Connor didn't need to be purchasing a firearm like this."

When news of the shooting broke, according to the complaint, the woman turned to her husband and said, "I bet it's that kid from the store."

Extra magazines, red-dot sight and vertical grip

The complaint also alleges that while River City failed to stop the transaction, it also used it to "embolden the novice shooter and made him more deadly" by selling three additional 30-round magazines, a red-dot sight to increase accuracy and a vertical grip that allows greater control of the weapon.

"Despite Sturgeon's complete lack of experience, 23 seconds was enough time for him to shoot and kill five people," the complaint states.

During his assault on the bank meeting, LMPD found, Sturgeon fired 25-30 rounds into the conference room.

Jayne Hines placed a cross and a note outside of the Old National Bank on April 11, a day after a mass shooting that left six dead, including the shooter, and another 8 injured.

The additional magazine allowed Sturgeon to quickly reload before opening fire on law enforcement, which hit Officer Nickolas Wilt in the head and Officer Cory Galloway in the chest as they entered the bank.

"If River City had not sold Sturgeon this extra large-capacity magazine, (he) would not have been able to continue firing," the lawsuit alleges.

During Tuesday's press conference, lawyers also mentioned the possibility of legal action against the makers of the additional equipment purchased by Sturgeon.

"People who are engaged in selling firearms need to be on notice that these kind of actions have very, very real, devastating consequences," Lefkowitz said.

Dallas Schwartz speaks about her experience during the April 2023 Old National Bank mass shooting in downtown Louisville. Jan. 22, 2024

Plaintiff Dallas Schwartz is still dealing with trauma and stress from the bullet that hit her leg and left her in rehabilitation for nearly a month.

"I dont want anyone to ever have to deal with what Ive dealt with or anybody that has had to deal with that day ... not just that day but any mass shooting," Schwartz said. "If there could be any type of change, even if its small..."

"Theres people not here anymore that cant fight that fight. I feel like I need to do that for them."

ATF's Top 100 list

The ATF or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms  which oversees federally licensed firearms dealers, like River City Firearms  provides resources on how to identify and prevent dangerous firearms sales.

It says gun sellers should ask about the intended use of the firearm, and it reminds them that they have "the right and the obligation to decline a sale if something doesn't feel right," according to the complaint.

Attorney Alla Lefkowitz makes a statement during a press conference announcing the filing of a lawsuit against the store that sold the gun used in the Old National Bank shooting. January 23, 2024

"I genuinely believe that most people who are in the business of selling firearms are absolutely horrified at something like this happening and do not want this to happen," Lefkowitz said. "They don't want this on their conscience, so to the extent that our complaint can help them look at something and say, 'Look, we need to be taking a look at how we train our associates, what red flags that we look for'  that's really important because I don't think anyone wants to be involved in a situation like this."

River City Firearms was identified by Louisville's ATF field office as a Top 100 Trace Dealer, according to a 2017 inspection released to The Brady under an open records request. The Brady is a national non-profit focused on gun violence that posts its collected information online.

A Top 100 Trace Dealer is a ranking used by the ATF in relation to the number of firearms used in crimes traced back to the licensee.

That 2017 inspection also found River City Firearms had nine separate violations, including failure to obtain accurate transaction forms and failing to comply with reporting requirements.

The violations resulted in a warning letter from the ATF, the least severe form of the ATF's administrative remedies. The most severe form is a license revocation.

"This was an entirely preventable disaster," said Thomas, the local attorney for the plaintiffs. "They want accountability for their families and the victims, for the city of Louisville.

"Everybody in Louisville had a connection to these murders. I think it's important that the city see that there is accountability and hopefully people take note and maybe something is prevented in the future."

Stephanie Kuzydym is an enterprise and investigative sports reporter, with a focus on the health and safety of athletes. She can be reached at skuzydym@courier-journal.com. Follow her for updates at @stephkuzy.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Louisville's Old National Bank shooting survivors sue gun seller
NEW BEDFORD  It's been nearly 15 years since New Bedford Public Schools had a superintendent promoted from within. Now, as the school department's top two central admins prepare to assume their positions on a more permanent basis, they say helping to promote stability where they can, amid all of education's often volatile variables, is personal to them.

"Something I've learned is one of the most important elements in any district for it to succeed is stability," said interim Superintendent Andrew O'Leary. "You can't keep turning things over."

As per unanimous vote of the School Committee this month, O'Leary and interim Deputy Superintendent Darcie Aungst are set to officially lose their "interim" titles sometime in February pending agreements that would extend their contracts through June 30, 2026, according to the motion read at the Jan. 8 School Committee meeting. The two were appointed to their interim positions after last year's resignation of former New Bedford Superintendent Thomas Anderson, announced in March.

During an outside interview, Mitchell told The Standard-Times he expected O'Leary's contract would be "not dissimilar from the one Thomas Anderson had in place."

In the last year of Anderson's five-year contract, which he exited prior to its 2026 expiration, he was set to make $231,857. In its first year, 2022-2023, Anderson's salary was $218,484.

Calling off the search

At the meeting, Mayor Jon Mitchell, ex-officio School Committee chair, and then all other members, said since last year's vote to start a national superintendent search, they've become convinced that O'Leary and Aungst were the right people for their jobs based on their interim performances.

Echoing some of his comments at the meeting, Mitchell told The Standard-Times the two "have demonstrated a really strong focus on what matters."

Andrew O'Leary, New Bedford Superintendent of Schools, speaks with Nya Salter, a para educator, who was a former student of Darcie Aungst, new Deputy Superintendent, during a stop at the Congdon Elementary School on Hemlock Street in New Bedford.

"In the past couple of years weve seen not nearly enough accountability in the district and not nearly enough clarity and direction, so I think they've re-established that," Mitchell said. "There's no question they're fully committed.

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"In Andrew's case, he has his own kids in the district. It's been a while since we've seen that, so that's a good sign."

Journey from Ireland landed O'Leary in New Bedford

While he might most readily be recognized for his 18 years' worth of business-related work at NBPS in the types of roles often filled by those from financial fields, O'Leary stands out as a seasoned Finance & Operations Office veteran in a district that first hired him as a classroom teacher.

After immigrating from County Cork, Ireland to the U.S. for grad school in upstate New York, O'Leary moved to New Bedford with his wife and started teaching at the DeValles Elementary School in 2004, before a knack for grant writing brought him to Central Office as director of federal & state funded programs. From there he became business manager, then assistant superintendent of finance & operations, until last year's interim superintendent appointment.

Going on 20 years of working at NBPS, O'Leary says one of the things he appreciates most about the length of his tenure is that he's gotten to see long term efforts bear their fruit. It's something that adds a depth of experience that simply can't be acquired any other way, he said.

"If you want to be a professional in education  a teacher, a support professional, an education leader  you want to see how all the finance reforms and investments play out," he said. "There's no better place to do that than here. It's all happening in New Bedford."

Aungst also adopted New Bedford as home

Aungst, who moved to New Bedford from Kelso, Washington 30 years ago, agreed with O'Leary's sentiment.

"This school was in the bottom 20% of schools in the state," Aungst said of Congdon Elementary School, where she and O'Leary were in the midst of a routine drop-by visit. "Then in four years it was in the top 10%.

"It's possible," she continued, having also noted Congdon School's accolades like Mass. School of Recognition designations in 2018 and 2019, and being named a Blue Ribbon School in 2020. "It's possible for every school in New Bedford."

Read the latest: DNA test approved for Duxbury's Lindsay Clancy, who is accused of killing her 3 children

Aungst knows the work that went into the Congdon School's turn-around very well, having been principal there from 2015 to 2021. As of 2017, she'd also added the DeValles School to her building leadership duties, splitting her time between the two South End schools.

Darcie Aungst, deputy superintendent, asks third grader Emma Frost, 8, what she is working on during a visit to the Congdon Elementary School on Hemlock Street in New Bedford.

State data shows that the DeValles School, in the state's 8th percentile prior to Aungst's leadership, had moved up to the 22nd percentile by the time she moved on to central office in 2021, as curriculum, data, and assessment manager for elementary schools.

Prior to any of that, Aungst's first experiences at NBPS were as a student-teacher starting in 1999. She was hired as a health teacher for several elementary schools in 2003 before moving to Normandin Middle School, where she'd eventually be named facilitator of student supports and learning, then Grade 8 assistant principal.

Keeping staff and settling 'on a clear direction'

One of the things Congdon School has benefitted from, O'Leary and Aungst said, has been staff longevity  something they look to promote district-wide with things like career advancement opportunities. But in certain aspects, they say it's important to remember less is more.

"As a teacher, I know what that felt like to have 'initiative overload,' and to immerse yourself in all this professional development to learn this program ... and next year it's something different," Aungst said, noting that maintaining a consciousness of what's being put on teachers' plates will be part of the district's approach to instruction. "There's so many evidence-based learning practices, you don't have to do them all  you have to do a few really, really well."

"In terms of politics or education reform, there are so many competing ideas and theories," O'Leary said. "That's why you need clarity: this is what instruction looks like in New Bedford; this is what student support looks like in New Bedford.

Don't get left in the cold!: Frozen doors, dead batteries, flat tires: How to prevent these winter woes

When it comes to New Bedford High's advanced academic offerings, for example, O'Leary explained rather than acquiring more like-programs, this administration's thinking would favor a focus on optimizing "long-established pathways" like Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Academy of Honors.

"You've got to do something that lasts," he said. "You've got to settle on a clear direction."

Flipping the script

Another defining philosophical characteristic of the new central administration, Aungst said, has been a district-wide emphasis on the need for a perspective shift on the nature of city schools and their "deficits."

"As soon as you flip your mindset from seeing something as a deficit to becoming an asset, it changes the way you work," Aungst said. "If you're seeing Spanish-speaking students coming in and feel like, how am I going to get them to pass English? No, it's  how am I going to help them develop into a multilingual person? Think of all the doors that opens for them."

"We've got challenges  we've got students dropping out, we want our graduation rate to be higher," O'Leary said, acknowledging there's plenty of "easier" districts one could work in. "But for those serious about getting into the education profession, there's no point in going to a district that isn't changing lives.

"We're going to make sure this district fulfills its potential and people are going to recognize it."

FUN FACT: Cork County, Ireland, where O'Leary is from, is about 2,930 miles from New Bedford, according to Google Maps. Meanwhile, driving from New Bedford to Kelso, Washington, where Aungst is from, would entail traveling 3,142.8 miles.

*Editor's Note: This story has been edited to correct an inaccuracy on Andrew O'Leary's residence.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: O'Leary, Aungst look to unify New Bedford Public Schools' approach
Russia transferred 17 Ukrainian children with disabilities from the occupied part of Donetsk Oblast to a rehabilitation center near Moscow as part of the forced passportization campaign in the occupied territories of Ukraine, Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets said on Jan. 22.

Ukrainian authorities have identified over 19,000 Ukrainian children who have been illegally deported to Russia since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Some of them were deported under the guise of sending them for rehabilitation and then put into the custody of Russian families.

Only 388 children have been brought back to Ukraine so far, according to the national database Children of War.

The 17 children, who have issues related to their nervous and musculoskeletal systems, were reportedly taken to the Ogonyok rehabilitation center near Moscow by a Russian Defense Ministry plane, according to Lubinets.

The Russian Presidential Commissioner for Childrens Rights Maria Lvova-Belova reportedly facilitated the transfer.

Read also: Ukraine rescues illegally deported teenager from Russia

The practice of transferring Ukrainian children is not a gesture of goodwill with the aim of helping, but a strategically important program of the aggressor state  when, under the pretext of providing medical care, the Russians force Russian citizenship onto Ukrainians, Lubinets said on Telegram.

A mandatory condition for treatment is the presence of a Russian passport, which, by (Russian dictator Vladimir) Putins order, is issued according to a simplified procedure. In this way, Russian citizenship is imposed under coercion, which contradicts the norms of international law.

Putin signed a decree on Jan. 4, which states that Ukrainian orphans and children left without parental care can receive Russian citizenship by Putin's personal decision without taking into account all or some requirements of federal legislation.

According to Lubinets, this document will facilitate granting Russian citizenship to deported Ukrainian children, which, in turn, will allow for adopting them as Russians and changing their identity.

Russia has deported 150 Ukrainian children from the occupied parts of Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk oblasts under the pretext of rehabilitation in 2023, Lubinets added in his Telegram post.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Putin and Lvova-Belova in March for their role in the abduction of Ukrainian children.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney walks in the Fourth of July Parade in Wolfeboro, N.H., on July 4, 2012. | Charles Dharapak, Associated Press

Some visitors might politely mistake Garys Barber Shop for a Donald Trump-themed merchandise store. Make America Great Again hats hang from the ceiling. Signs and posters cover the walls. A huge, 20-foot-long Trump banner hangs from the exterior facade, larger even than the sign advertising the barber shop itself.

Inside, owner Gary Brockney offers both haircuts and political humor. Someone once asked me, Do you allow liberals in here? Brockney says, over the muted hum of his clippers. I said, At their own risk.

Here in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, a quiet vacation town dubbed the oldest summer resort in America, such deep-rooted political views are nothing new. The town took center stage in the summer of 2012, when then-presidential candidate Mitt Romney  who owns a home on Lake Winnipesaukee  drew flocks of Secret Service agents and political tourists to town, during his annual summer vacation there.

But in the decade-plus since 2012, the town has changed. Housing prices have skyrocketed, forcing many longtime residents to downsize or move out. The advent of pandemic-era remote work led to an influx of new residents, many of them upper-middle-class. And amid a shifting Republican Party, many of the towns conservatives, once Romney supporters, now view Trump much more favorably  and have soured on their neighbor.

This is Trump country, Brockney said. I dont know anyone around here that admits they know Romney.

Romney still owns a lake house in the area, as does one of his sons. The vacation town, nestled on the side of the lake and surrounded by green mountains, continues to be a favorite getaway spot for celebrities from Jimmy Fallon to Bill Marriott. The charming downtown features rows of shops and restaurants, mixed with Colonial- and Victorian-style homes. The towns permanent population is 6,000; in summer, it balloons to three times that size.

Trump hats hang from the ceiling at Garys Barber Shop in Wolfeboro, N.H, on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Samuel Benson, Deseret News

But in January 2024, just days before the New Hampshire primary election, the town is devoid of much political activity. The lake is frozen over, and the streets are mostly empty. No Republican candidate has campaigned in the city since Nikki Haley hosted a town hall here in November. Trump last appeared in October; Ron DeSantis, on the Fourth of July.

This is a seasonal town, said Raya Nepomuceno, an employee at a local clothing store. Theres not a lot going on during winter.

Perhaps no year was as busy as 2012, when Romney  then the presumptive Republican nominee for president  descended on the town for his annual summer vacation. Romney brought his campaign aides along, discussing potential picks for the vice president slot. Romneys family marched in the Fourth of July parade, and Romney delivered a speech at its conclusion. Journalists rented boats to get a lakeside glimpse of the Romney family compound, photographing Romney on his boat or his dock.

Tourists flooded the area, offering a preview of what could have happened to the quiet town should Romney have won the presidency and this be his getaway spot.

There was a lot of discussion about that, said Cindy Patten, owner of Blacks Paper and Gift Shop in Wolfeboro. We caught a glimpse of it: the Secret Service, the tourists, the attention.

Even after the 2012 election, Romney continued to vacation in Wolfeboro, and in 2015, it again became a political epicenter: Romney hosted Chris Christie and Marco Rubio, two 2016 hopefuls, who marched in the town parade and jockeyed for Romneys support.

All along, Romney was considered both a spectacle and a local. It was like, Oh, there goes Mitt, said Jan, a local store manager. (She declined to give her last name.) He just felt like one of us.

You might not like his politics, but you cant not like the man, one town resident told the Los Angeles Times in 2012.

But then Trump rose to prominence. In some ways, Wolfeboro became a microcosm of the class divide that tore apart the Republican Party. Interviews with a dozen Wolfeboro residents revealed a tension between the year-round residents and the part-time vacationers; several acknowledged the importance of tourism for the local economy, but blamed wealthy part-time residents for raising housing costs as they buy up properties.

With the onset of the pandemic, an influx of working professionals with the ability to work remotely moved into the town, residents said, further exacerbating the us-versus-them tensions.

Edward X. Young, of Brick, N.J, a supporter of former President Donald Trump, cheers during a Trump campaign event, Monday, Oct. 9, 2023, in Wolfeboro, N.H. | Steven Senne, Associated Press

At Garys Barber Shop, Wolfeboro residents spoke of the towns shifting demographics and the countrys problems in the same language. Wolfeboro, one man said, was being taken over by people who dont think like us; later, the man  a janitor at the local high school  said the school, just like the country at large, is being infiltrated by woke agendas.

Trump fanned these sentiments in his rise to prominence. Wolfeboro residents responded in kind. Trump won the 2016 Republican primary in Wolfeboro by double-digits, and he went on to win the general election there in both 2016 and 2020. When Trump hosted a rally at Kingswood Regional High School in Wolfeboro in October, a line of thousands of attendees wrapped around the school, some arriving as early as 7 a.m.

What about Romney? To some in town, hes become a black sheep  for no other reason than standing his ground against Trump, who Romney says represents a failure of character.

Brockney has cut hair for some of Romneys grandsons, and in 2012, they hosted a cookout for the Secret Service and Coast Guard officers sent to protect Romney  lobster, corn, the whole New England tradition.

But now, they have a different view of him. Most of the town really liked him, Lucy Brockney, Garys wife, said. Then he turned on America.

I asked what she meant. He turned on Trump, she said.

Gary and Lucy Brockney stand outside of Garys Barber Shop in Wolfeboro, N.H., on Jan. 20, 2024. | Samuel Benson, Deseret News

Gary Brockney cuts a clients hair at Garys Barber Shop in Wolfeboro, N.H., on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Samuel Benson, Deseret News

A shed with a Trump sign is pictured near Wolfeboro, N.H., on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Samuel Benson, Deseret News
TOOELE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  A 76-year-old man was pronounced deceased after a crash in Tooele County Saturday morning, according to the Utah Dept. of Public Safety.

At around 11 a.m. on Jan. 21, a Dodge Ram pickup truck was heading east on I-80 near mile marker 13 in Tooele County.

Officials said the truck drifted to the right into the cable barrier and came to a rest.

New details released on woman killed, left by Millcreek dumpster

Courtesy of Utah DPS

Troopers arrived on scene and found the 76-year-old driver unresponsive. One trooper performed CPR while medical personnel responded to the scene.

Medical personnel were unable to revive him, officials said, and he was pronounced dead on scene.

Troopers are investigating a possible medical incident as a factor in this crash.

The mans identity is not being released at this time.

No further information is currently available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
SAN DIEGO  One person is dead and two others injured after a shooting in San Ysidro early Monday morning, San Diego police confirmed. Authorities are investigating the incident as a homicide.

The shooting was reported shortly after 4 a.m. at San Ysidro Studios at the corner of Calle Primera and Willow Road. Upon arrival to the scene, officers discovered two male victims with gunshot wounds, according to SDPD.

The third victim, who suffered critical injuries and was later pronounced dead, was found a short distance away at a gas station on Via de San Ysidro under the Interstate 5 overpass.

The extent of the injuries and current conditions of the other two victims have not been disclosed.

An investigation remains ongoing. Preliminary findings suggest that the victims likely knew the suspect, who fled the scene in a white sedan, and lived in the area. There does not appear to be an immediate threat to the public.

Weve brought down quite a few patrol resources, investigative resources  we do have an officer over at the school, just to make sure everything is safe, SDPD Lt. Jud Campbell told FOX 5 Monday morning.

A description of the suspect has not been provided at this time. No additional details were immediately available.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Editors Note: Dean Obeidallah, a former attorney, is the host of SiriusXM radios daily program The Dean Obeidallah Show. Follow him on Threads. The opinions expressed in this commentary are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley raised an important issue Saturday about former President Donald Trump that demands far more media attention. After an alarming series of recent verbal missteps by Trump, Haley questioned whether he is mentally fit to serve in the White House.

Dean Obeidallah - CNN

Haley  who is challenging Trump for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination  raised questions about Trumps mental acuity, pointing to a major slip-up he made related to the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol in which he appeared to confuse her with Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic former speaker of the House.

At the Trump event on Friday, Trump told the audience, 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?

He added: 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.

The 77-year-old Trump then repeated the glaring error, stating, Nikki Haley is in charge of security. We offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, national guards, whatever they want. They turned it down.

Back in the real world, Haley  a Republican former governor of South Carolina who served as Trumps UN ambassador from 2017-2018 and who did not hold public office on January 6, 2021  had nothing to do with security at the Capitol that day. Yet Trump invoked her name multiple times during that speech. Thats why Haley spoke at length the following day expressing doubts regarding Trumps mental fitness.

Last night, Trump is at a rally and hes going on and on, mentioning me several times as to why I didnt take security during the Capitol riots. Why I didnt handle January 6 better. I wasnt even in DC on January 6. I wasnt in office then, Haley said. Theyre saying he got confused. That he was talking about something else. That he was talking about Nancy Pelosi. He mentioned me multiple times in that scenario.

Haley told the crowd that the confusion by the president is beyond worrisome. 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.

As controversy over his misstatements swirled, Trump later Saturday boasted about his cognitive abilities, saying, A few months ago I took a cognitive test my doctor gave me  and I aced it.

He continued: Ill let you know when I go bad; I really think Ill be able to tell you. Because someday we go bad, he said at a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire. I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago.

Meanwhile, a senior Trump campaign adviser, Chris LaCivita, glossed over the error on Saturday, posting on X, Nancy  Nikki  its a distinction without a difference.

In truth, the differences between Haley and Pelosi are substantial and the two prominent politicians are hard to mix up  starting with the fact Pelosi is a frequent Trump antagonist who served as Democratic speaker of the House, while Haley is a Republican who once served in Trumps own administration.

Trumps often cited claim that Pelosi oversaw January 6 security is a lie that has been fact checked numerous times. This raises another valid question about Trumps mental state: Is he knowingly lying, or does he sincerely believe facts that are detached from reality?

Haley is 100% correct to raise red flags about Trumps cognitive abilities. The president of the United States must be mentally fit to do the job. To be clear, Haley also raised questions during her campaign event about President Joe Bidens potential cognitive issues. But to be blunt, those issues  as well as concerns about Bidens age  have been litigated extensively in the media, which allows voters to make up their own minds on the subject.

By contrast, Trump  who will turn 78 in June  has been subjected to much less scrutiny about his mental acuity, despite a series of mental gaffes that led conservative television host Megyn Kelly to raise alarm bells last month.

Speaking on conservative pundit Glenn Becks radio show, the former Fox News anchor said of the former president ,Theres no question that Trump has lost a step or multiple steps. Kelly cited a number of errors by Trump, including instances when he claimed to have defeated former President Barack Obama at the ballot box and when he said hes currently running against Obama.

Trump, Kelly remarked, is confusing Joe Biden for Obama. I know hes now saying he intentionally did that  go back and look at the clips, it wasnt intentional.

Kelly is correct about Trumps long and growing list of mental glitches. For example, in October, he misstated what country his longtime ally Viktor Orban  the prime minister of Hungary  is the ruler of, wrongly telling voters that Orban was the leader of Turkey.

That same month, Trump greeted a crowd of supporters with the words, Hello, to a place where weve done very well, Sioux Falls! Thank you very much. In reality, Trump was in Sioux City, Iowa  not in Sioux Falls, a city in South Dakota  prompting a local elected official to whisper in his ear where he actually was at the time so that he could clean up his remarks.

And the list goes on.

This is not the first time one of his opponents for the GOP presidential nomination has raised the issue of Trumps mental sharpness. In November, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantiss campaign posted on social media a thread of more than two dozen confusing remarks Trump had made, claiming this was the reason why his handlers wont let him debate.

But given the fact that Trump handily won last weeks Iowa GOP caucus and is well positioned to wrap up the GOP presidential nomination shortly, its imperative that the media robustly cover the issue, so that GOP voters can be fully informed about the mental fitness of the person they may nominate to be president. This is especially true for conservative media outlets, since that is where Republican voters are likely gathering their information.

True, these conservative media outlets may be reticent to cover negative stories about Trump out of fear of potentially upsetting their viewers. But this is an issue that transcends partisan lines.

If theres anything that ought to outweigh party identity, its our collective concern about the potential threat posed to our nation by a future president who might not be up to doing the job mentally of being commander in chief.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
It has been a month since Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusks government took office, and the task now is to rebuild Polish democracy after eight years of corrupt misrule under Jaroslaw Kaczynskis Law and Justice (PiS) party. No country in Europe has ever faced a political transition quite like this one.

After all, Polands veto-wielding president, Andrzej Duda, remains loyal to the ousted populist government, and Tusks coalition government lacks the votes to remove him from office despite Dudas myriad unconstitutional actions. With another 15 months left on his term, Duda will have many opportunities to plunge Poland into chaos at Kaczynskis behest.

Most of the damage PiS has caused to Polish institutions also remains. For example, when the party came to power in 2015, it combined the offices of prosecutor-general and minister of justice, and handed that role to Zbigniew Ziobro, a far-right partisan who immediately began reforming the courts. The National Council of the Judiciary, which nominates judges, was duly purged and then stacked with PiS cronies. Soon enough, the PiS government had illegally politicized and seized control of the Constitutional Court, followed eventually by the Supreme Court.

Read also: Polish PM Donald Tusk pledges unity, end to border blockade during Kyiv visit

As a result, Poland now has two parallel legal orders, only one of which is constitutional and legitimate. Across the judiciary, there are more than 2,000 PiS-aligned neo-judges who were appointed by the refashioned Council. Because Ziobro drew from this compromised pool when selecting directors of the common courts, thousands of verdicts can now be challenged.

The previous PiS government also politicized public media by illegally packing the National Media Council with party acolytes for six-year terms. Independent-minded journalists were then expelled from public media outlets and replaced with propagandists.

Something similar happened with state-owned companies, cultural institutions, and the central bank. Virtually every institution that could be seized was seized. Now, Tusk needs to wrest back the key levers of government that remain in PiS hands.

To depoliticize the public media, Tusk appointed the formidable Bartlomiej Sienkiewicz as minister of culture (probably only temporarily to carry out this mission). Sienkiewicz has already bypassed the National Media Council to remove executives at state media companies, as well as secretly negotiating an agreement with technical staff to stop broadcasting the public news station TVP Info. Although PiS members responded by trying to occupy the TVP building, the stations news and current-affairs programming has already been overhauled. Free of PiS propaganda, it has a decidedly more pluralistic character.

Duda participated in PiSs lawlessness from the beginning, and now he is doing everything to protect that regime. For example, in 2015, he illegally pardoned two prominent PiS politicians, Mariusz Kaminski and Maciej Wasik, who had been convicted of serious crimes a decade earlier. Kaczynski then put them in charge of special services in the new PiS government.

After the recent elections, Kaminski and Wasik faced a second trial, which concluded this month with both men sentenced to prison for two years and banned from public office for five. Despite PiS protests, Speaker of the Sejm Szymon Holownia revoked their mandates as MPs after consulting the Supreme Court (specifically its Labor Chamber, which was legally elected). When the two men were arrested this month, Duda not only announced that he would pardon them again, but also tried to give them sanctuary in the presidential palace.

But Duda has reinitiated the pardon procedure, effectively admitting that his previous pardon made no sense. Rather than pursuing an immediate pardon, he has taken the longer route, whereby the courts and the prosecutor-general will weigh in first. In the meantime, PiS intends to make martyrs out of Kaminski and Wasik.

Before the elections, PiS, fearing that it would lose power, delegated the authority to dismiss the national prosecutor, Dariusz Barski, to the president. As a result, Adam Bodnar, a former ombudsman who now holds the roles of minister of justice and prosecutor-general, would have no influence or authority over his main subordinate and other prosecutors. But this legal absurdity was based on laws that were no longer in force. Bodnar was thus able to choose a new national prosecutor and unblock the prosecutors office. Tusk also announced plans to separate the functions of the prosecutor-general and the minister of justice, so as to make the prosecutors office independent of politicians.

Read also: Opinion: What happens if the West abandons Ukraine?

PiS politicians are openly talking about their plans to sow chaos and tarnish the Tusk governments image in Poland and abroad. The goal is to create the impression that Tusk is acting radically, pursuing revenge rather than compromise. The new government has been in power only a month, they will say, and PiS members are already being locked up. Never mind that Wasik and Kaminski were convicted by a court, not by Tusk, and based on evidence proving that they falsified documents and signatures to smear their political opponents during the first PiS government in 2005-07.

For now, Poles trust the new government. Several recent polls show that PiSs support is declining as the ruling coalitions approval rises.

In the end, Duda, having openly gone to war with Tusk, may be the biggest loser. If he follows through on blocking a forthcoming budget bill by sending it to the Constitutional Court, parliament will have to be dissolved. But judging by the latest polls, new elections could deliver the Tusk-led coalition the supermajority it needs to overturn a presidential veto. If that were to happen, the fortress of corruption that PiS built would become entirely defenseless.

Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

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Six of the eight candidates in the Aug. 23 GOP debate said they would support former President Donald Trump as their party candidate, even if he was convicted in a court of law. (Al Drago / Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Aug. 23, 2023. Thats the day the Republican presidential primary ended.

Lets review: Former Vice President Mike Pence officially dropped out on Oct. 28. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott would follow on Nov. 12. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum dropped out on Dec. 4. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie withdrew on Jan. 10 followed by former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Jan. 16. Vivek Ramaswamy dropped out last week after his poor showing in the Iowa caucuses, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis backed out of the race on Sunday.

Nikki Haley remains standing for now. But her eventual exit, like the rest of the GOP herd of candidates, could have been predicted on Aug. 23. That was the night of the first Republican primary debate, which Donald Trump blew off as completely inconsequential. He was, of course, right.

Read more: Opinion: Ron DeSantis found his groove way too late

That night, the eight candidates on stage were asked a very simple question: If former President Trump is convicted in a court of law, would you still support him as your partys choice? Please raise your hand if you would. Haley, Scott, Burgum, Ramaswamy, DeSantis and Pence all raised their hands. Only the longshots Hutchinson and Christie kept their hands down.

From that day forward, it was obvious that the would-be Trump without the baggage wannabes were in effect defrauding their backers and donors, asking them for money and support when it was clear that they werent about to dethrone Trump.

Not only did they lack the fortitude to defeat him, but they also werent even going to try. Week after week they tiptoed around Trump, contorting in every which way to avoid landing any real punches on him, fearing his wrath and the wrath of his supporters. They knew they couldnt exist politically in the GOP without Trump; he would always be their foundation. So they tried to not antagonize him, fighting with one hand tied behind their backs. In fact, they spent a lot of time defending him.

Read more: Ron DeSantis ends presidential bid days before New Hampshire primary, endorses Trump

If being convicted of committing a federal crime isnt disqualifying, then what possible rationale would any of these challengers have to convince Republican primary voters to vote for someone else?

From this point forward, these campaigns were nothing more than a giant grift. At best, they were a farcical charade designed to compete for a spot in the Trump Cabinet. At worst, they were an exercise in vanity, a last-ditch effort to cling to one last morsel of relevancy before exiting stage left and disappearing into obscurity, never to be heard from again, I hope.

Quite frankly, every single person who was asked to contribute money to candidates who had no intention of actually winning the nomination should demand a refund. It makes you wonder how their big fundraising meetings and speeches really went down. Ask yourself, if a candidate came to you and made this pitch, would you be inclined to cut a check?

Read more: Nikki Haley's best  and perhaps last  chance to beat Trump is next week in New Hampshire

Im running for the Republican nomination for president and Id like your financial support. I want you to know upfront I have no intention of actually going on offense and contrasting myself with the front-runner. In fact, Im going to do everything I can to avoid even speaking his name. I will allow him to mock me and take shots at me, but I wont really fight back. Ill ignore the fact that hes been indicted 91 times and actually come to his defense when pressed about his legal difficulties. Ill parrot his attacks against President Biden and do my very best to pander to his core audience. But I will not speak ill of him, and if I do, itll be at the last second when there is no hope for actual victory. Now, would you please give me your money?

That in a nutshell has been the Republican presidential primary. Nobody running in the 2024 cycle seems to have heeded any of the lessons from the 2016 primary. Is it any surprise that the result turned out to be the same?

The simple truth is Donald Trump dominated a field that had no real desire to keep him out of the presidency. He was able to dismantle all of his follower-rivals without ever having to leave the courthouse.

Kurt Bardella is a contributing writer to Opinion. He is a Democratic strategist and a former senior advisor for Republicans on the House Oversight Committee. @KurtBardella





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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Utah Legislature is considering defunding Utahs world-renowned Dual Language Immersion, or DLI, program, which is currently training nearly 50,000 K-12 students in bilingual fluency, preparing them for the global workforce.

These students are learning Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, French, German and Russian. In December, the Executive Appropriations Committee voted unanimously to accept the Public Education Subcommittees recommendation to remove DLI and eight other categorical programs from its base budget. The subcommittee proposed to keep these funds for further study during the current general session of the Legislature. The subcommittee will determine whether to continue the program, consolidate with a similar program or reallocate funding.

It is proposed to take the $7,367,000 annual direct allocation educating 50,000 DLI students in 330 schools. The money would be distributed through the general funding formula to 675,000 students in all K-12 public schools. According to the Utah State Board of Education, this would reduce the $152 per DLI student to just $11 for all students. This funding shift would clearly decimate the DLI program as we know it. In a $7.7 billion public education budget, DLI amounts to a small fraction of 1% of spending  and the returns on this small investment are significant.

Proponents of the change argue the Legislature should not determine how education funds are spent, that these decisions are better made at the local level. What they fail to recognize is that all DLI funding is spent by local school districts and charter schools  none is spent at the state level. Whats more, every Utah public school can choose at the local level to become a DLI school and choose which language is taught. Under the Utah model, DLI funding supports DLI directors and coordinators as language specialists in school districts who work across school district boundaries to support schools in each of the six languages, which keeps program spending small.

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For example, Canyons School District Spanish Language Director Ofelia Wade spends one day a week supporting all Canyons Spanish DLI schools and the remainder of the week supporting Spanish DLI schools  including charter schools  across the state, teacher recruiting and training, and she ensures high quality instruction within the Spanish DLI programs. Similarly, Alpine School District Chinese Language Director Stacy Lyon divides her time serving Alpine Chinese DLI schools and Chinese DLI programs across the state at other districts. Utahs unique collaboration among schools ensures DLI funding achieves economies of scale, prevents duplication of effort and ensures savings to taxpayers.

Another efficiency of Utahs DLI Elementary Model stems from its 50:50 design, where the instructional day in grades K-6 is divided between two high-quality classrooms, each for 50% of the instructional time. Students spend half of their school day in the immersion language, which includes math and science instruction. They spend the other half-day studying English language arts and social studies while reinforcing vocabulary in both languages. All state-sponsored programs are required to use two teachers, one who instructs exclusively in the immersion language for half of the day and a second teacher who teaches exclusively in English the other half of the day. Utahs 50:50 model enables each language instructor to reach twice as many students as other models.

DLI students in secondary schools take the World Language Advanced Placement or NEWELL test in ninth or 10th grade. This allows them to enroll in the Bridge Program taking upper division college language courses from Utahs best college language programs  at their own high school. Bridge students can graduate high school just a few credits short of a college minor in the language, enabling them to do a double major in college. Moreover, the employability and lifetime earnings of these bilingual graduates are significantly enhanced.

Utahs DLI program is undisputedly the most successful and least costly K-12 language program in the nation and the envy of other states. It has been recognized for the program standards and practices that ensure measurable student language fluency. Utah DLI is noted for its quality curricula and highly qualified domestic and international teachers who all receive ongoing professional learning and mentoring.

Because of its exemplary quality, Utahs DLI program has been visited by representatives of 42 states and over 22 foreign countries. Many U.S. embassies in foreign countries which process visas for international DLI teachers have recognized it as the finest program in the country.

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages awarded Utah DLI schools and language leaders the Melba D. Woodruff Award for Exemplary Elementary World Language Program and the Leo Bernardo Award for Innovation in K-12 Language Education.

In their One Nation Indivisible series, Harvard Law featured Wasatch School Districts universal Spanish DLI, which they said connected the diversity between white Latter-day Saint families and Hispanic Catholic families in positive community relationships.

Asia Society posted a piece explaining the elements that make Utahs DLI program exceptional.

But the most important reason for continuing DLI funding is what it does for students. Utahs Dual Language Immersion program has been shown to raise student achievement in English Language Arts and other academic subjects. Research shows that DLI has positive effects on brain function  notably improved executive functioning from advanced maturing of the prefrontal cortex. This helps students to focus their attention with less effort and makes it easier to multitask plus problem-solve.

Additionally, Utah DLI students and their families expand their horizons while learning language and culture. As the global economy grows, those with language skills developed in Utahs schools can be employed in international business, diplomacy and defense in order to ensure the future peace and prosperity of our country.

Representatives of Utahs 41 local school boards, superintendents and business administrators in the Joint Legislative Committee have urged the legislature to keep Dual Language Immersion intact. The Utah State School Board voted unanimously in favor of keeping DLI as it is and opposed defunding. I am hopeful the Utah Legislature will see the wisdom of protecting this unique program that sets Utah apart in so many ways.

Former Utah state Sen. Howard Stephenson was the original sponsor of Utahs Dual Language Immersion legislation.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Oregon Humane Society struggled through the recent winter storm after a pipe burst.

The pipe damage caused extensive flooding at their Portland location.

There are a lot of ceiling tiles missing and damage to the shelter hospital but theres also concern about other possible damage.

PBOT: Into recovery, but 54 roads still closed from storm

One of the big unknowns right now is what the damage is sort of behind the walls, said Laura Klink with the Oregon Humane Society. Weve got some blowers going right now in the hospital that are loud and making it quite hot in there. But for now, were just trying to dry things out.

They anticipate repairs can be made with the help of donors and community aid, which you can donate to on the Oregon Humane Society website.

No animals were harmed by the flooding.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Oregon Humane Society is on the mend after suffering damage during the winter storm over the weekend when a burst pipe caused extensive flooding at their Portland campus. Additionally, the shelter had to close for a number of days due to the icy conditions.

OHS spokesperson Laura Klink told KOIN 6 News that the frozen pipe burst in the buildings commissary, a key place for food prep and laundry.

No animals were affected by the flooding, the organization said.

Luckily, it did not happen in any of our kennel areas, so the shelter pets were not directly affected, Klink said. We also had some flooding in our shelter hospital, but it happened after hours so our facilities crew was able to clean things up fast and our veterinary team is still able to provide care to shelter pets.

The Oregon Humane Society sustained flood damage after a frozen pipe burst during the winter storm. Jan. 21, 2024 (Courtesy: OHS)

OHS posted footage of the flooding to social media on Jan. 16. The video shows water pouring from the ceiling and pooling along the floor of the commissary.

PBOT: Into recovery, but 58 roads still closed from storm

According to Klink, since shelters rely extensively on food prep and laundry areas, facilities management was soon able to get it back up and running. During the height of the storms, the facilities team and OHSs animal care manager even stayed overnight to make sure bases were covered. But as of Sunday, there are still a lot of ceiling tiles missing and damage to the shelter hospital.

Laura Klink with the Oregon Humane Society, January 21, 2024 (KOIN)

Right now, one of the areas where we anesthetize animals before surgery has been sort of out of commission, Klink said. One of the big unknowns right now is what the damage is sort of behind the walls. Weve got some blowers going right now in the hospital that are loud and. Making it quite hot in there. But for now, were just trying to dry things out again.

Moreover, the ice made it impossible for staff and volunteers to walk dogs on the designated paths behind the shelter property. But they were able to improvise and have the dogs run around and play in outdoor concrete areas next to the shelter, as well as in large rooms in the building, normally used for training classes.

Oregon restaurants, bars seek state action over financial loss from winter storms

But a larger impact on OHS through the last week was the inability for their shelter partners around the state to transfer animals to their location due to road conditions. Klink noted this this put an extra burden on the shelter partners who now have a lot of animals in their care, so the organization is looking forward to resuming those operations.

Although they are still assessing the overall damage to the facility, Klink said the cost is expected to be upwards of $50,000 and they are relying on the kindness of their donors and the community to aid in the relief effort.

We are very fortunate to have a very compassionate community that does step up during these times of need, Klink added. Sometimes its these terrible times that really bring out the best in people and bring people together. Thats thats the silver lining for sure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
This year's Red River Regional Science and Engineering Fair will be February 16 at Midwestern State University.

Bright young scientists and engineers from this region will gather to share their discoveries with judges who will then determine which outstanding project will qualify for this years Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair to be held in May in Los Angeles. Students in grade 6 through 12 will also be able to qualify for the Texas State Science and Engineering Fair to be held in March at Texas A&M College Station.

Dr. Rigoberto Hernandez, center, views Rider High School student Sai Chada's project, which was the top winner at the regional science fair in 2023. On left is teacher Bryce Henderson.

After about a decade hiatus, the fair returned to the Wichita Falls Region in 2023. Sai Chada, now a senior at Rider High School, won the top spot at the fair last year, and was able to attend 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Dallas because of community support.

Stephanie Seman, a previous Red River Regional Science and Engineering Fair finalist is seen in a previous fair and in a more recent photo.

Recently, past participants who were awarded the opportunity to attend the International Science and Engineering Fair as representatives of the Red River Regional Science and Engineering Fair recalled what the experience meant to them. Below are their thoughts on RRRSEF.

Stephanie Seman, a previous Red River Regional Science and Engineering Fair finalist who represented this region three times at ISEF in the past, has the following to say:

"Participating in science fairs helped pave a career pathway for me as a clinical laboratory scientist as well as microbiology/immunoassay applications specialist. Science fairs taught me the value of science communication, and being able to explain technical concepts in a way that everyone can understand, which helps make science more accessible for others."

Crystal Battaglino participated in science fairs during her time at Burkburnett High School. She won the opportunity more than once to attend ISEF as a finalist as a regional representative. She explained:

"The RRRSEF cultivated a space where curious minds came together and could develop, explore, and discover all aspects of the science world. Im so grateful for RRRSEF as it gave me the opportunity to attend ISEF. The competencies I developed throughout my school years equipped me with the skills necessary to succeed in my profession in Healthcare Hospitality through Food and Nutrition."

RRRSEF, a community supported event, has made a difference in the lives of past area students and will continue to do so if we receive the financial support that is needed to continue to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers!

To help, please visit our website: rrrsef.org and click on the Donate to RRRSEF link or contact RRRSEF at info@rrrsef.com for more information on how to become a sponsor. Red River Regional Science and Engineering Fair is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Red River science fair participants speak on its impact on their lives
Donald Trump could be all but crowned the partys nominee after Tuesdays vote in New Hampshire - MIKE SEGAR/REUTERS

Donald Trump has a clear lead over Nikki Haley in the next Republican primary as pressure builds on his only remaining challenger.

The former president could be all but crowned the partys nominee after Tuesdays vote in New Hampshire, where the latest poll shows him 18 points ahead.

The gap is likely to be even wider as the Washington Post poll was taken before Ron DeSantis pulled out of the race. Many of his supporters will turn to Mr Trump, analysts suggest.

A second poll by CNN showed Mr Trump has the support of half of likely voters in the state, while Ms Haley has the support of 34 per cent.

Ms Haley shook off suggestions Mr Trumps win was inevitable at a rally on Sunday night.

America doesnt do coronations, she said.

Her campaign insisted it has seen an influx of donations since Mr DeSantiss departure, reaching $500,000 (393,000) in less than 24 hours.

The contest became a two-person race after Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, withdrew from the field on Sunday night, admitting he had no clear path to victory.

Jim Merrill, the Republican strategist, said data suggested that his minimal support would likely trend towards Trump rather than Haley.

For Nikki Haley, at this point, every vote counts, he said.

Ms Haley has vowed to continue as the last woman standing on what now appears to be a quixotic quest.

Theres two people in this race. Thats what we wanted all along. Were going to keep on going, she said.

Some polls had showed Ms Haley polling neck and neck with Mr Trump in New Hampshire. But Mr Trumps dominance in the GOP race has strengthened since the Iowa caucuses on Jan 15.

New Hampshire, which goes second, offers Ms Haleys best hopes of rallying an anti-Trump coalition to stave off his seemingly inexorable march to the nomination.

A moderate-leaning state with a large portion of educated voters, it is meant to be fertile ground for Ms Haley, who has centred her appeal on a moderate-establishment platform.

Around two-fifths of New Hampshires electorate are registered independents and are eligible to vote in the Republican primary.

But polls suggest Mr Trumps voters are more motivated to turn out, and his team has deployed what one aide termed a pincer strategy to crush what they called her unholy alliance of support.

They have attacked her from both the Left and the Right, highlighting her support for raising the retirement age while also painting her as weak on China and immigration.

Ms Haleys allies have already begun to temper expectations of a win in New Hampshire.

Chris Sununu, the states popular Republican governor, has argued she does not need to win the state for her campaign to remain viable.

She simply needs a strong second place, he told ABC News. Thats the only expectation we ever laid out there, he said, adding none of the upcoming early primaries were must-win states.

Yet there appears to be no remaining path for Ms Haley to pose a serious threat to Mr Trump.

National polls show the 77-year-old commands 66 per cent of the Republican Partys voter base, according to aggregator FiveThirtyEight.

The next state where both candidates will appear on the ballot is Ms Haleys native South Carolina on Feb 24, and where Mr Trump leads by 36 points.

He leads by similar margins in all of the remaining states leading to Super Tuesday on March 5, when more than a third of all delegates are up for grabs.

No intention of dropping out

Ms Haleys team insist she has no intention of dropping out of the race, and have spent $4 million (3.1 million) in advertising in South Carolina to go live on Wednesday.

Betsy Ankney, Ms Haleys campaign manager, said This is far from over.

The 52-year-old has scheduled a rally in the southern state on Wednesday night, which her team have presented as her official kick-off in the state.

Ms Ankney said independent voters could continue to power Ms Haleys bid, noting two-thirds of states voting on Super Tuesday have open or semi-open primaries.

But if Mr Trump continues on the current trajectory, he could have secured enough delegates to clinch the nomination by mid-March.

Ms Haley may want to quit the race before Feb 24 rather than risk a humiliating defeat in her home state, which could tarnish her reputation ahead of a second attempt at the White House in 2028.

Mr Trump has already demonstrated his strength in South Carolina by having senior elected Republicans in the state join him on stage in New Hampshire.

They include Tim Scott, a one-time presidential rival, whom Ms Haley appointed as a senator while she was South Carolinas governor.

Jim Merrill, a New Hampshire-based strategist who has worked on several Republican presidential campaigns, said Mr Trump was in an enviable position.

Hes the quasi-incumbent, and with all the benefits that come with that, he told the Telegraph.

But he cautioned against writing Ms Haley off too soon. Nikki Haley is stubborn, and so are the voters in New Hampshire, he said.

He added: If she wins New Hampshire or if she comes in a very close and competitive second, its hard to argue she should get out when shes got her home state a month away.

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CLOVIS, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  An 18-year-old was arrested after allegedly shooting a juvenile while they were intoxicated early Sunday morning, according to the Clovis Police Department.

Police say around midnight they responded to a call regarding a possible shooting in the 2600 block of Sierra Madre Avenue near Shaw and Temperance Avenues.

Before officers arrived, they were advised a man who was down in the street got into a dark-colored SUV as a passenger and left the area. Officers spotted the vehicle near Clovis and Shaw Avenues and pulled it over.

Authorities say they detained a driver and two intoxicated passengers. One of the passengers was a juvenile suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the upper body. They were transported to a local hospital and are in stable condition.

Police identified the other passenger as 18-year-old Kian Greene of Fresno who was arrested and transported to a local hospital because of his level of intoxication. The driver was released with no charges.

Investigators say they located a handgun in the SUV and one spent cartridge casing in the street on Sierra Madre Avenue.

Detectives learned with the help of surveillance footage that the victim and suspect were involved in an argument when at some point, the victim was shot.

Officers report Greene was booked under suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon where a firearm was used.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
VISALIA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  An investigation is underway after a man shot at officers before turning the gun on himself Sunday afternoon, according to the Visalia Police Department.

Police say around 2:50 p.m. they responded to a home near Atwood Street and Hurley Avenue for a report of a man armed with a gun.

Upon arrival, responding officers reported they were confronted by the suspect who immediately fired multiple rounds at them before shooting himself. He was transported to a local hospital.

Authorities say they did not shoot back and were not injured.

The public is advised to avoid the area as Violent Crime Detectives and Crime Lab are on scene investigating.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
The Pecherskyi District Court of Kyiv has chosen the restriction measure for Roman Hrynkevych, the son of businessman IhorHrynkevych involved in the case on procurement of low-quality clothes for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. He is to remain in custody until 17 March 2024 with the possibility of bail of over UAH 500 million (about $13,4 million).

Source: broadcast of the court proceeding on the Youtube channel of the Suspilne media outlet

Details: The prosecutors requested to keep Hrynkevych in custody due to the risk of him influencing the witnesses, fleeing abroad using false documents or committing further offences. The requested bail was UAH 500,001,528.

The defence did not agree with the prosecutors request, calling the accusations groundless, and asked to change the restraining measure to a 24/7 house arrest.

Hrynkevychs lawyer stated that the suspect has no way to bail himself out since all his accounts are frozen.

Hrynkevych himself claimed that he would not pay bail in the amount determined by the lawyers. He claimed that this case was falsified and that he was in the city of Odesa on a work trip, and was going to come back to Kyiv. He allegedly found out he was wanted a few days ago.

Background: On 22 January, Roman Hrynkevych, the son of a scandalous Lviv businessman involved in a case of low-quality clothing being supplied to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, was detained in Odesa. He had been put on the wanted list. Prosecutors obtained a court order to detain him.

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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed support for Ukraine and condemned those who choose to remain neutral in the Russian-Ukrainian war in a statement during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Jan. 22.

You are not alone; not least in the sense that this fight is happening in every country in Europe, Tusk said.

Read also: No tolerance for anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Tusks government

Today, anyone in the free world who claims neutrality, equal distance, or offers it to Ukraine and Russia deserves the darkest place in political hell.

Tusk became Polands new Prime Minister on Dec. 11, ending the eight-year rule of the ultra-conservative Law and Justice party, led by Jarosaw Kaczynski and previous PM Mateusz Morawiecki.

During his speech, Tusk emphasized the importance of further aid to Ukraine and called for the Wests full mobilization. He said that Russias attack on Ukraine is an attack on us all, and should be discussed in unison to unite allies.

I will never allow anyone in my government to base their position on any anti-Ukrainian sentiment, Tusk said in an interview with Polish TVN24 on Jan. 12.

Tusk visited Kyiv for the first time since his appointment on Jan. 22.

Read also: Zelenskyy meets Polish President Duda in Davos to discuss policy of support

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
After a bumpy period in Ukraines relations with Poland during the last year of its former government, Warsaw will now sign a security agreement with Kyiv, deputy head of the Presidents Office, Ihor Zhovkva, told Ukrainian TV broadcasters on Jan. 22.

Zhovkva said that although relations between Ukrainian and Polish peoples and their presidents remained stable during the Russian invasion, previous interactions with Poland's former government were challenging.

Read also: Poland gears up for further military aid to Ukraine

Despite Polands role as Ukraine's neighbor, strategic partner, and supporter during Russia's open aggression, it was reluctant to back Ukraine's security formally, said Zhovkva.

Read also: Poland must prepare for potential influx of more Ukrainian refugees

That inexplicable state of affairs has now been rectified.

He added that Zelenskyy proposed urgent negotiations on a bilateral security guarantee document with Poland.

Read also: Zelenskyy submits bill on multiple citizenship to parliament

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited Kyiv on Jan. 22, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and PM Denys Shmyhal.

Following their meeting, Zelenskyy announced a new military aid package Ukraine would receive from Poland and thanked Tusk for a productive discission.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomes Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to Kyiv, Ukraine, on Monday. Tusk reaffirmed Poland's support to aid Ukraine in the war with Russia. Photo by Ukrainian Presidential Press Office/UPI

Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Poland appear to be improving after Monday's meeting in Kyiv between Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The two leaders met in what was Tusk's first visit to Ukraine days after Poland's government negotiated a suspension of a border blockade by Polish truckers, with Zelensky calling Tusk "a good friend" amid a rise in tensions under the previous Polish government that was voted out of office.

The Polish prime minister vowed to resolve any at all disputes that remain between the two eastern European countries "in the spirit of friendship" and "not to maintain or multiply" any ongoing diplomatic issues between the two neighboring countries.

After their meeting, Zelensky and Tusk said the two allies had found "a common understanding" regarding the trucker blockade, which started under the previous Polish government.

Tusk and Zelensky discussed several other issues related to Russia's war with Ukraine and the bilateral relations between Poland and Ukraine, as well as Ukraine's admission into the European Union and post-war reconstruction plans for Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Monday. The two leaders reached a solution to the ongoing trucker strike. Photo by Ukrainian Presidential Press Office/UPI

Zelensky mentioned during their joint press conference after their meeting that a new package of defense assistance from Poland is in the works, but at the current time it is unclear what form that is going to take.

Tusk said that Poland "will do everything" to increase the odds that Ukraine will win the military incursion by Russia.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (R) and Ukraine's President Zelensky (L) recommitted to more stable diplomatic relations between the two eastern European nations on Monday. Photo by Ukrainian Presidential Press Office/UPI
Donald Tusk, the new Prime Minister of Poland, arrived in Kyiv on 22 January 2024 for his first visit to the country.

Source: Polish Prime Minister's Office on Twitter (X), reported by European Pravda

Details: Tusk arrived at Kyiv railway station on Monday morning.

Poland's RMF24 noted that the agenda for the visit includes meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

Background:

Tusk's visit to the Ukrainian capital had been expected for some time, and it was the topic of a conversation between Zelenskyy and Polish President Andrzej Duda at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The possible date was not disclosed for security reasons.

Earlier, Tusk said that for both him and Duda, the situation in Ukraine and at the front remains "the number one topic" relating to Poland's security, and it is important to discuss a number of other matters, including the situation with the protest of Polish hauliers at the border.

Donald Tusk said that he would not allow anyone in his government to base their positions on anti-Ukrainian sentiment. Last week, the hauliers, who had been blocking several border crossing points since November, agreed to suspend the blockade until March after reaching an agreement with the Polish authorities.

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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk arrived in Kyiv, the Chancellery of the Prime Minister of Poland announced on X on Jan. 22.

Tusk was elected as Poland's prime minister following a vote in the country's parliament on Dec. 11, ending months of political wrangling that has followed the Oct. 15 Polish parliamentary election.

Poland will "loudly and decisively demand the full mobilization of the free world, the Western world, to help Ukraine in this war," Tusk said on Dec. 12.

Tusk will meet his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal and President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Chancellery said.

Tusk's visit follows that of Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, who came to Kyiv on Dec. 22 on his first official trip abroad in his new position.

Read also: Tusk: No tolerance for anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Polish government

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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Jan. 22 during his first visit to Ukraine since assuming the position.

One of Ukraine's closest allies amid Russia's war, Poland's consistent track record of support has been marred in recent months over the protest and border blockade by Polish truckers, who claim that the liberalization of transport visa rules for Ukrainians has hurt their domestic businesses.

Polish truckers suspended their blockade of the border last week, lifting the closure of the final border crossing on Jan. 16.

Tusk and Zelensky said during their meeting on Jan. 22 that both sides "have reached a common understanding" regarding the protests.

"We understand the depth of the reasons that led to this kind of situation, but draw attention first and foremost to the depth of the threat that stands before our peoples," Zelensky said about the truckers.

The two leaders also discussed a number of other issues related to Russia's war and Polish-Ukrainian bilateral relations.

"Poland will do everything...to increase Ukraine's chance of winning this war," Tusk said.

At a joint press conference following the meeting, Zelensky said that a new package of defense assistance from Poland had been announced but did not specify what was included in it.

"We appreciate such unflagging support," he said.

Read also: Opinion: Polands reckoning with populist misrule

Both leaders acknowledged that the fight for Ukraine's freedom is also a fight for Poland and the rest of Europe's security.

Zelensky added that they also spoke about the possibility of joint arms production between Poland and Ukraine.

"The coming months and years will be a military and logistical challenge for the entire free world," Tusk said. "I welcomed the president's declaration that we will build joint (military) ventures with great satisfaction," he added.

"We will invest in companies in Poland and Ukraine that will increase of defense capabilities.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, Poland has supplied Ukraine with almost $3.5 billion in military aid, Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said at the press conference, as cited by Ukrinform.

This includes hundreds of tanks, airplanes, helicopters, air defense systems, anti-aircraft missile systems, infantry combat vehicles, boats, anti-tank weapons, artillery, and ammunition, according to Shmyhal.

Tusk's office announced that Poland had joined the Group of Seven (G7) plan for security guarantees for Ukraine, first announced at the NATO summit in Vilnius in July 2023.

Under this plan, individual countries would provide bilateral support to help Kyiv repel the ongoing Russian invasion and deter any future aggression.

The security guarantees would entail explicit and long-lasting obligations, as well as bolster Ukraine's ability to resist Russian aggression. The guarantees would also cover sanctions, financial aid, and post-war reconstruction.

Tusk also reiterated previous declarations of support for Ukraine's EU accession.

"Poland will try to help in all aspects of the EU accession process so that Ukraine's full membership in the European Union becomes a fact as soon as possible," he said.

The two leaders also discussed plans for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction and recovery. Tusk said that Poland would appoint a commissioner specifically responsible for working on this issue.

The Polish Press Agency (PAP) reported later that the position would go to lawmaker Pawel Kowal.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Reports of explosions, fires in Russian rear, occupied Sevastopol after alleged Ukrainian strikes

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This is a joint project between Nexstar Media Group and Syracuse University.

DOVER, N.H. (NEXSTAR)  For the first time in New Hampshires presidential primary history, an incumbent president running for reelection will not appear on the ballot.

President Joe Biden will not be one of the 21 names that will appear on the Democratic ballot on Tuesday, in this traditional first in the nation primary..

Heres why: The Democratic National Committee and President Bidens campaign wanted the South Carolina primary to be first, as South Carolina has a more diverse base of Democratic voters than New Hampshire. They said South Carolina would be a better representation of the countrys Democratic voters than New Hampshire.

However, New Hampshires Republican-controlled state government did not want to give up their First in the Nation status, and so New Hampshire scheduled their primary early.

Its a terrible disservice by Democrats to try and strip Granite Staters of the First in the Nation status that they have worked hard and earned time and time again, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu said in December 2022. The good news is that our primary will still be first, and the nation will not be held to a substandard process dictated by Joe Biden and the Democrat Party.

Candidates on the Democratic ballot include author Marianne Williamson and Minnesota representative Dean Phillips, but there are New Hampshire voters who have been pushing a Write-in-Biden campaign.

On Sunday, voters held a rally in Dover, New Hampshire, for President Biden, raising awareness for their write-in campaign.

I wanted to make the case to progressives that we need to rally behind this president, said Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif). Biden has enormous achievements for the working class, middle class, the climate, and weve gotta unify.

Khanna said that in a seemingly inevitable rematch between President Biden and former President Donald Trump, giving President Biden a big win in New Hampshire on Tuesday will go a long way to defeating Trump in November if a rematch does occur.

Gale Bailey, a Durham resident, came out to support the write-in campaign to save democracy.

We cant afford another four years of Donald Trumpand I feel like [Biden] has the best chance to beat Trump, she said.

While write-in candidates always have long odds in any primary election, none were the incumbent president. Write-in candidates have won elections before, however, so this isnt an impossible task for President Biden. In 2010, though, Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski lost the Republican nomination to Joe Miller but won the general election as a write-in candidate, and in 1954, Strom Thurmond began his U.S. Senate career with a landslide victory as a write-in candidate in South Carolina.

Max Weisman is a senior at Newhouse studying Broadcast and Digital Journalism at Syracuse University and has interned/reported for the New York Post.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
The New Hampshire primary election lands tomorrow, Jan. 23  the first in a series of statewide primary elections that will determine which Republican and Democratic candidates will appear on the 2024 presidential ballot in November.

Yesterday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 presidential race, leaving former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley as the only other major Republican candidate going up against Donald Trump in the primary elections.

Despite disagreements inside his own party keeping him off the New Hampshire primary ballot, President Joe Biden is still the leading candidate to snag the Democratic slot in the November presidential election.

President Joe Biden speaks while visiting firefighters at the Allentown Fire Training Academy, Jan. 12, 2024, in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

Campaigning far behind him are Democrats Dean Phillips, a U.S. Representative from Minnesota, and Marianne Williamson, an author and spiritual advisor from Texas.

Here's everything you need to know about which candidates are left in the 2024 presidential race.

Who's running for president in 2024?

Democrats:

President Joe Biden: Former vice president to President Barack Obama, 2009 through 2017. Current president of the United States. Age: 81 years old.

Dean Phillips: First elected to Congress in 2018 representing Minnesota in the House of Representatives. Age: 54 years old.

Marianne Williamson: A self-help author and spiritual leader who ran unsuccessfully for president in 2020. Age: 71 years old.

Republicans:

Donald Trump: Former President of the United States, 2017 through 2021. Age: 77 years old.

Nikki Haley: Former governor of South Carolina, 2011 through 2017; former U.N. ambassador, 2017 to 2018. Age: 52 years old.

Third-party candidates:

Cornel West: Previously taught at Yale, Princeton and Harvard; currently a professor of philosophy at Union Theological Seminary. Age: 70 years old.

Jill Stein: A doctor and organizer; has run for president twice before, launching bids in 2012 and 2016 on the Green Party ticket. Age: 73 years old.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.: An environmental lawyer and anti-vaccine activist. Age: 70 years old.

When is Ohio's primary election?

Ohio's presidential primary election falls on Tuesday, March 19. The voter registration deadline is Feb. 20.

Check your voter registration status online at voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/voterlookup.aspx. Voters can register online and/or update their voter registration information at olvr.ohiosos.gov.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, Jan. 21.

'One fella and one lady left' in the Republican primary elections

Upon dropping out of the presidential race, DeSantis stated in a video he posted to social media on Sunday that he did not have a clear path to victory.

"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."

The governor lent his endorsement to Donald Trump, stating that, "We cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear  a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism  that Nikki Haley represents."

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley speaks at a rally at Exeter High School in Exeter, New Hampshire, on Jan. 21, 2024, during preparations for the New Hampshire presidential primary.

DeSantis narrowly defeated Haley by two points for second place in the Iowa caucuses, coming in 30 points behind front-runner Trump.

DeSantis's departure means Haley will go head-to-head with Trump in the upcoming primary elections.

Its now one fella and one lady left, Haley said at a campaign event in Seabrook, New Hampshire, shortly after the news that DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 race.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Who's running for president in 2024? Here's who is still in the race
The top Democrat on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee is asking the Trump Organization to turn over the entirety of its business records, arguing its the only way the panel can understand the full extent to which former President Trump profited from foreign governments while in office.

The letter from Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) follows a report from the committee concluding Trump earned nearly $8 million from foreign governments while in office.

Trump failed to disclose those profits to Congress, something Raskin said violates the Emoluments Clause of the Constitution, which bars leaders from accepting anything of value from foreign governments without the blessing of lawmakers.

Digging into a letter from the Trump Organization after it rebuffed his calls earlier this year to return the profits, Raskin said the written rejection from the Trump team is an admission that, without congressional consent, he collected while in office at least $7.8 million from at least 20 foreign governmentswith the Peoples Republic of China and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia being his leading patrons.

Democrats acknowledged the limitations in their report when it was released earlier this month. They note gaps in the information they received relative to Trumps business empire, as well as the fact that accounting firm Mazars stopped producing records won via court battle, citing a notification they got from Trumps attorneys that referenced a conversation with the panels GOP leadership.

However, the lions share of the documented foreign money  some $5.6 million  flowed from China, which, along with other countries, primarily patronized three properties: Trump hotels in Washington and Las Vegas and Trump Tower in New York.

That includes $5.4 million spent over nearly three years by the Chinese state-affiliated Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), which had secured space at Trump Tower.

The Trump Organization wrote in a letter last week that many of the leases that contributed millions toward that figure were signed before Trump was elected and noted that he donated those profits as well as his presidential salary to the Treasury.

To Raskin, that largely served as confirmation of the committees work.

You conspicuously do not dispute the millions of dollars that foreign governments spent at Trump-owned properties, the identities of the corrupt and autocratic governments that spent those sums, or the myriad policy favors and changes that those governments were seeking to obtain from the Trump Administrationand, in numerous cases, did obtainat the time they were filling Trumps pockets, Raskin wrote in the letter obtained by The Hill.

Nor do you dispute that the former President never came to Congress to disclose the foreign government payments he wanted to accept or to seek congressional consent to keep themas the Foreign Emoluments Clause required him to do.

Trumps team wrote that the vast majority of foreign government funding it took in while he was in office came from leases like those secured by ICBC and that it turned over 100 percent of the estimated profits from its hospitality properties.

But Raskin said by relying on estimates of profits and only from Trumps hotels and towers, they are excluding income that may have come in through some 500 different Trump-affiliated businesses.

[Trump] did the one thing the Constitution clearly prohibits: he accepted payments from foreign governments without congressional approval. In any case, you dont quantify what vast majority actually means. Wed like to do an independent audit to find out whether this statement is true, Raskin wrote.

Earlier work from the committee found Trump donated around $450,000 in profits from his businesses to the Treasury over his four years in office  a figure that represents a significant gap from the almost $8 million in profits found by Democrats as they reviewed a fraction of Trump business records.

Raskin also took a dig at an argument Trumps attorneys recently made in his election interference case, arguing the trial should be postponed until 2026 due to the volume of evidence theyd have to review in the case, suggesting that if stacked it would reach higher than the Washington Monument.

Raskin suggested the true scope of Trumps foreign profits could also stretch as high.

Perhaps if you pile up all the foreign state money former President Trump received while in office, the stack will reach as high as the Washington Monument, and we could call it the Washington Emolument, he wrote.

The Hill has reached out to the Trump Organization and the Trump campaign for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Eli Blue Hernandez, who was homeless, bundled up against the extreme cold at the Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center, where he got a new tent on December 23, 2022. (Credit: Jay Janner/AMERICAN-STATESMAN/File)

A deep freeze and serious concerns

about life in Texas. Why do we allow this?

Re: Jan. 16 article, Deep Freeze."

I am in my ninth decade, retired, and live in fear, literally of my life. Fear of losing electricity. Fear of losing heat. Fear of losing water. I have lived in the northeast, in freezing Chicago, in California, and overseas over my 80+ years. Never have I experienced such continuing uncertainty regarding the supply of these critical life services. How does this happen in the energy capital of the U.S.? It happened in 2011, catastrophically in 2021 and here we go again now. Why do Texas voters continue to put up with this? Is it masochism? Ignorance? I just do not understand.

Ken Rygler, Round Rock

Extreme temperatures are part of life.

ERCOT needs to get its act together.

Re: ERCOT asks Texans to conserve power Monday morning. Sorry, but ERCOT needs to get their act in gear. If the grid has problems in cold weather, then fix it. It is not rocket science and countries around the world in cold climates manage just fine. Extremes in temps are now a reality. Stop expecting everyone else to do your job.

John Perry, Austin

A promise to never set foot in the state

again, and a question about Texas values

To the editor: My husband and I enjoyed visiting Austin and other areas of Texas with our grandchildren. With the recent drowning deaths of an immigrant mother and her 2 children after Texas officials allegedly blocked federal agents from rescuing them, we will never set foot in Texas again. What is wrong with the values of Texas?

Christine Day Duluth, MN

Not convinced that democracy will

endure if Trump wins a second term

Re: Jan. 14 commentary, "American democratic system will endure"

The premise of this article is to reassure us that this election will not be the end of our democracy. Re-read if you missed it.

My reservation is that Mr. Turley underestimates the lengths to which Donald Trump will go to make sure he wins. Turley was impressed that following the "insurrection," which he minimizes in importance, members of Congress quickly reassembled to carry out their constitutional functions."

Imagine a scenario whereby Trump is elected and he decides to appoint himself president for life. His minions in Congress dare not defy his will, nor wish to diminish power for themselves, and agree.

I would love to be able to have the faith that Turley touts. Based on what I see in today's political world, I am quite dubious. Voters, please don't let us down.

Jeri Porter, Fischer, Texas

The voters in Iowa have spoken and the

pundits decree the election is determined

2024 Two questions Ive pondered lately: First, watching all the hysteria and news coverage over the Iowa caucus election, Ive thought the number of Iowa votes for Trump represents a very, very teensy sliver of American registered voters. Yet, somehow this election has determined the entire course of the 2024 presidential election according to the news pundits. Surely Americans arent such lemmings that Iowa can determine how they will vote?

Second, Republicans can barely take a breath without saying Bidens open borders policy. They have been instructed to keep this narrative going despite evidence that there is no open borders policy. Yet, I havent seen a GOP plan advanced to close the borders. Build the wall? No man-made obstruction in history without strategically placed armed guards trained to shoot on sight has succeeded in blocking desperate people, such as with the Berlin Wall. Is this what Republicans want Biden to enact?

Dru Edrington, Georgetown

Enraptured supporters must realize

Donald Trump is a real-life Pied Piper

Donald J. Trump is a perverse Pied Piper. Unlike the fabled musician who destroyed the rodents wreaking havoc in Hamelin, the former president empowers modern-day vandals.

In Robert Brownings poem, music lured the rats to their deaths.

Those who attend Trumps rallies seem similarly enraptured, convinced that Trump is their godsent savior.

His dystopic rhetoric attracts racists, misogynists, antisemites, anti LGBTQ+ and those who hate immigrants and the disabled. The tone and pitch of Trumps lies led his audience to rampage through the Capitol on Jan. 6.

The fictional Pied Piper eventually leads the towns children away except for one disappointed child. Just as I felt assured my lame foot would be speedily cured, the music stopped and I stood still.

This may be our countrys path back to sanity. Beguiled Trump supporters must realize their charismatic leader is a charlatan.

Barbara Chiarello, Austin

Confederate Heroes Day doesn't promote

racial tolerance. So why do we observe it?

The state of Texas currently celebrates Confederate Heroes Day on January 19. Years ago, this holiday was called Robert E. Lee Day. It's a day off for state employees. I am at a loss as to why we continue to celebrate this.

Amazingly, it occurs within the same week as Martin Luther King Jr Day. The juxtaposition of these holidays is uncomfortable and divisive at the very least. I do not feel that Confederate Heroes Day supports aspirations of racial reconciliation and tolerance. On this day of Confederate heroes, do something that supports our brothers and sisters on this earth rather than our divisions.

Scott Brookhart, Austin

Remove the blinders and ask yourself:

How many criminal cases does it take?

Please help me understand, why anyone would support Trump in the next election! This has nothing to do with being a sane Republican or a sane Democrat; I support people of both parties who are logical and thoughtful.

The Emperor's New Clothing story says it all, folks. In the story a young boy tells the crowd the truth that the emperor has no clothes on. Maybe it's time to ask our youth what they think, as something is seriously wrong with the way many adult Americans are acting!

We as a nation can do better. Please do your homework, America, and get the facts! How many criminal cases against Trump does it take to remove one's blinders? It really is a privilege, a right, a responsibility, to be able to vote. Make America Sane Again!

Kathy Murphy, Austin

How to submit a letter to the editor

Send letters of no more than 150 words by noon Thursday by using our online form at https://bit.ly/3Crmkcf or send an email to letters@statesman.com.

We welcome your letters on all topics. Include your name and city of residence; we do not publish anonymous letters.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Readers react: Another deep freeze: Here we go again
Chinese businesses' role in Ghana's economy crucial: minister

Xinhua) 10:16, January 22, 2024

ACCRA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese businesses' role has been crucial in boosting Ghana's economy, Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has said.

Speaking during a roundtable with Chinese businesses in Ghana Friday, Ofori-Atta said Chinese companies operating in various sectors including energy and aviation have played very critical roles in the evolution of Ghana's economy.

The minister described China's role as "invaluable" as co-chair of Ghana's official creditor committee to secure a deal for external debt restructuring, paving the way for the country to secure a 3-billion-dollar funding from the International Monetary Fund.

He said the Ghanaian government desired to ensure that the environment remains safe and more secure for Chinese investments.

Chinese Ambassador to Ghana Lu Kun in his remarks commended the Ghanaian government for organizing the roundtable conference to discuss issues of mutual interest with Chinese businesses.

"China follows the principle of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith, and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests when advancing China-Ghana cooperation," Lu said, adding China will continue encouraging more well-established and capable Chinese companies to invest and support Ghana's economic development.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A York County man will spend the next 25 years in prison for a methamphetamine trafficking conviction  the minimum under South Carolina law.

A jury convicted Michael David Morgan, 40, of Clover, Thursday afternoon in York County criminal court at the Moss Justice Center on charges of third-offense meth trafficking between 28 and 100 grams, possession of drugs with intent to distribute, and fentanyl possession, according to court testimony and court records.

After the guilty verdicts, prosecutor Marina Hamilton told Judge Dan Hall in court of Morgans previous criminal record that included two previous drug convictions. Because of the previous convictions, Judge Hall sentenced Morgan to a mandatory 25 years in prison. Morgans sentence for the other two drug convictions from the trial to be served concurrently.

Morgan was on trial after he previously was arrested in 2023 by Clover police after officers found around 44 grams of meth and other drugs, prosecutors said.

Morgan is not eligible for parole and must serve at least 85 percent of the sentence under state law.

Prosecutors say the man knew potential punishments if found guilty and still opted for a trial over a plea deal. But York Countys chief public defender said the case illustrates that mandatory minimum sentences are absurd and costly to taxpayers.

Mandatory minimums for conviction

Mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking convictions are common in South Carolina state court, and are generally based on the type of drug, the amount of drugs, and if the defendant has previous drug convictions.

Meth is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Mandatory sentencing laws in South Carolina for trafficking include new laws enacted in 2023 that made trafficking fentanyl, an opioid, an offense with mandatory punishments for convictions.

County public defender: mandatory minimums absurd

Morgan was represented at trial by attorney Chris Bonds of the 16th Circuit Public Defenders Office.

B.J. Barrowclough, York Countys chief public defender, said after court the case is emblematic of the problem with mandatory minimum sentences where judges have no sentencing discretion.

While we respect the jurors decision I think this case illustrates the absurdity of mandatory minimums, Barrowclough told The Herald in a written statement. We are incarcerating an individual for 25 years for essentially possessing less than 100 grams of methamphetamines.

Barrowclough said the most recent figures he has shows it costs taxpayers almost $19,000 per year to house an inmate.

We are essentially going to spend over $474,500 of taxpayer money to warehouse one person with a drug problem, Barrowclough said. Ridiculous.

Hamilton, 16th Circuit senior assistant solicitor, said after court Morgan rejected plea offers before that would have lowered the mandatory sentencing range for meth trafficking to between seven and 25 years.
Day of mourning announced in Russian-controlled Donetsk in memory of shelling victims amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

Day of mourning announced in Russian-controlled Donetsk in memory of shelling victims amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia is taking all "necessary measures" to defend its citizens and key infrastructure from Ukrainian attacks, the Kremlin said on Monday, a day after Moscow accused Kyiv's forces of killing 27 people in shelling of a Russian-held city in eastern Ukraine.

Also on Sunday Russian company Novatek was forced to suspend some operations at a huge Baltic Sea fuel export terminal after what Ukrainian media said was the latest in a series of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian energy facilities.

"The (Russian) Ministry of Defence, our air defence assets, other relevant agencies are taking necessary measures to protect against this kind of terrorist attack," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a regular news briefing.

"The Kyiv regime is continuing to show its vicious side in that they are striking civilian infrastructure. They are striking people, civilians," he said, branding Sunday's attack on the city of Donetsk a "heinous act of terrorism".

Russian-installed officials in Donetsk said the attack, which also injured 25 people, had hit a busy area where shops and a market are located.

Ukrainian forces said on Sunday they did not bear responsibility for the death of people on occupied territory and blamed Russia for the heavy loss of life.

Thousands of Ukrainian civilians have been killed or injured by Russian air strikes and shelling since President Vladimir Putin sent tens of thousands of soldiers into Ukraine nearly two years ago.

Moscow said Sunday's incident was the second serious Ukrainian attack on civilians in less than a month. In December, Russia said 25 people, including five children, were killed during a Ukrainian missile and drone attack on the western Russian city of Belgorod.

Monday was an official day of mourning in the Donetsk region - one of four Ukrainian regions which Russia claims to have annexed since February 2022, in a move Kyiv and its Western allies say is illegal.

Kyiv has prioritised the domestic production of long-range drones, allowing it to strike targets deep inside Russia regardless of misgivings in the West about such attacks.

The head of Ukraine's main military industry manufacturer said in November that Ukraine had established serial production of "kamikaze" drones with a combat range of 1,000 kilometres (621 miles).

Ukraine and the West accuse Russia of waging an unprovoked war of aggression aimed at seizing land. Moscow says what it calls a "special military operation" is purely defensive and is aimed at bolstering Russian security against a hostile West.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Gareth Jones)
Nikki Haley's sad path to the moderate middle By Rachel Alexander

web posted January 22, 2024 It's been rather depressing watching the downward spiral of Nikki Haley as she washes out challenging Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination. She started her political career with such promise, as an American of Indian immigrant parents who worked her way up from state legislator to governor of South Carolina and then U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Now, although conservatives need to rally behind Trump as he is targeted by the left through fascist political prosecutions, she is doing the opposite and attacking him. Obviously, Haley believes if she gets her name recognition up, she'll be in a better position to run for president in 2028 or later, and if she performs well in Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, it will give her leverage to demand to be Trump's vice-presidential running mate. But despite the fact the establishment has kept that state's primary mostly open, allowing independents to skew the results towards moderates, Trump appears poised to take over 50% of the vote as he did in Iowa. Haley's record as a state legislator was exemplary, garnering lifetime "A" ratings by the Palmetto Family Council and the NRA, "Taxpayer Hero" designation by Governor Mark Sanford in 2005 and "Friend of the Taxpayer" status by the South Carolina Association of Taxpayers in 2009. But her record started going downhill after she became governor. She refused in 2016 to support a bill that would require transgenders to use restrooms based on their gender assigned at birth. She said that global warming is manmade. In 2020, she said she was "heartbroken" about the death of George Floyd, and that "[i]n order to heal, it needs to be personal and painful for everyone." Haley angered constitutionalists when she called to end anonymous social media accounts. She backtracked after coming under criticism, saying only Americans should be allowed to have them. The Founding Fathers used anonymous political writing in the Federalist Papers to generate support for passage of the U.S. Constitution. She won't call to eliminate the Department of Education, unlike several other presidential candidates. During a presidential debate last year in August, Haley ducked the issue of whether she supported a federal ban on abortion. Merely a few months earlier, she'd pledged to sign a federal ban into law. Even RINO extraordinaire Mike Pence, who supports a federal ban and who has since dropped out of the presidential race after dismal poll numbers, called her out for demonstrating "the opposite of leadership" in her response. Trump appointed her ambassador to the U.N. despite the fact she supported Sen. Marco Rubio in the 2016 primary and called for Trump to release his tax records. She also denounced him for allegedly not disavowing the KKK. Trump has denounced white supremacy so much that The Daily Caller compiled a minute and a half long video of his many public statements. A few days after the January 6, 2021 protest at the U.S. Capitol, Haley faulted Trump for the clash. "We need to acknowledge he let us down," she said during an interview. "I think he's lost any sort of political viability he was going to have  He's fallen so far." She continued, "He went down a path he shouldn't have, and we shouldn't have followed him, and we shouldn't have listened to him. And we can't let that ever happen again.  When I tell you I'm angry, it's an understatement." Trump said on J6 speaking to a crowd near the U.S. Capitol, "I know that everyone here will soon be marching over to the Capitol building to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard." Haley believes Biden was legitimately elected president, and said Trump's efforts to overturn the results would "be judged harshly by history." She praised Pence for accepting the electoral slates for Biden from states suspected of election fraud, "I do think that Vice President Pence did the right thing, and I do think that we need to give him credit for that." When Trump confused her name with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Haley questioned his mental fitness. "Don't be surprised if you have someone that is 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline," she said during an interview, calling it a "warning sign." Haley recently said that Trump cannot win a general election and declared , "The American people are not going to vote for a convicted criminal." The New York Times reported that she said regarding Trump's administration, "We cannot have four years of chaos, vendettas and drama." In an essay for The Wall Street Journal, she said Trump had gone astray as president, and said she could not "defend the indefensible." Even before jumping into the presidential race, and after serving as U.N. ambassador, Haley has not hesitated to criticize Trump. In August 2019, she responded to a sarcastic post on X by Trump about Rep. Elijah Cummings' home being burglarized, "This is so unnecessary" with an eye roll emoji. Trump said Haley promised him that she would not oppose him running for president again in 2024. As late as April 2021, she said she would not run for president if he was. Her entry into the race was a slap in the face, considering she has said she told Trump she would serve as U.N. ambassador on three conditions, and he agreed to them and followed through. He was "true to his word," she repeatedly praised him later. The truth is Haley appears to be garnering significant interest because the fake news MSM covers her campaign relentlessly, in an effort to make Trump look less popular and pretend Republicans are becoming more moderate. She's been able to soar ahead of Ron DeSantis because he's too similar to Trump, and she has the woman and Indian factor. Much of Haley's transformation into a moderate Republican is likely typical of why RINOs become RINOS ; a combination of follow the money and knowing too many establishment players she considers "friends." The Republican Party needs to stay far away from what would clearly be another Bush type of leader. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home
The complex dynamics between Iranian proxies Hamas and Hizbullah By Yoni Ben Menachem

web posted January 22, 2024 In the recent conflict in the Gaza Strip, Hizbullah's support for Hamas against Israel was limited, reflecting a reluctance to jeopardize its own interests. Hamas officials openly criticized Hizbullah for not engaging in a more comprehensive war against Israel, emphasizing the need for a united front in the face of shared adversaries. Approximately three weeks after the outbreak of the conflict on October 7, 2023, Khaled Mashal, a senior Hamas official, publicly chastised Hizbullah for its restrained approach, stating that such actions do not align with the historical imperatives of the Palestinian cause. As Israeli military pressure intensified on Hamas, the critique of Hizbullah was revived. In a January 15, 2024, interview with the Saudi channel A-Sharq, Hamas officials claimed that Hizbullah was caught off guard by the timing of the October 7 attack, even though there were purported secret plans for joint action.

Two weeks after the Hamas attack on Israel, Secretary-General of Hizbullah Hassan Nasrallah (R) met with Secretary-General

of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Ziyad al-Nakhalah (C), and Deputy Chief of Hamas' political bureau Saleh al-Arouri in Beirut,

Lebanon, on October 24, 2023. n January 2, 2024, Aruri was assassinated. (Press TV) Allegedly, the intention was to launch coordinated attacks from the south and north, with auxiliary forces entering from Syria to disrupt Israeli activities and force a withdrawal from the West Bank back to the 1967 borders, including east Jerusalem. Hizbullah's decision to engage more forcefully was attributed to the perceived gaps in Israel's security, a conclusion drawn from the events of Operation "Guardian of the Walls" in May 2021. The realization that military gains could be achieved through ground and rocket attacks, backed by Hizbullah's precision missiles on strategic Israeli sites, prompted the planned offensive. However, the lack of coordination with Hizbullah on the October 7 attack surprised the group. Hamas officials suggested that Hizbullah's decision to participate symbolically in the conflict was influenced by U.S. military support for Israel. Faced with potential destruction, Hizbullah opted for a cautious approach and preferred withdrawal. Hamas criticized Hizbullah for its reluctance, attributing it to concerns about U.S. military presence and potential damage to Lebanon. Enter the Houthis While Hizbullah engaged in limited clashes with the Israeli Defense Forces in southern Lebanon, Hamas expressed greater appreciation for the Houthis in Yemen, who, despite the geographical distance, actively challenged Israel through economic blockades and attacks on merchant ships. Further strain emerged with Hamas accusing Hizbullah of security lapses in Beirut's al-Dahiya neighborhood, leading to the elimination of senior Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri by Israeli forces. Hamas argued that Hizbullah did not adequately safeguard Arouri's life. These disputes may signal the beginning of a rift between the two organizations. If Israel succeeds in destabilizing Hamas in the coming months, Hamas could hold Hizbullah responsible. Although Hizbullah possesses superior military capabilities, its reluctance to engage in an all-out conflict with Israel, stemming from lessons learned in the Second Lebanon War, remains a point of contention. In conclusion, Hamas and Hizbullah's differing priorities and strategies have strained their relationship, raising questions about the extent of their collaboration against shared adversaries. The dynamics between these two significant groups continue to evolve, influenced by regional developments and their assessments of the geopolitical landscape. Yoni Ben Menachem, a veteran Arab affairs and diplomatic commentator for Israel Radio and Television, is a senior Middle East analyst for the Jerusalem Center. He served as Director General and Chief Editor of the Israel Broadcasting Authority. Home
Luis Garza and his wife, Mireida Guerrero and their two children from Monterrey, Mexico pose for a picture in front of SpaceX's Starbase on Friday, July 1, 2022. For years, Elon Musk has touted SpaceXs compound near Boca Chica Beach as the Gateway to Mars. His desire to rebrand the area as "Starbase" is gaining traction among local politicians. Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Sections of SpaceXs Starship and Super Heavy rockets are seen Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the companys so-called Starbase assembly and launch facility at Boca Chica in Cameron County which produces both rockets. William Luther/Staff Previous rocket models stand in the Rocket Garden at the SpaceX Starbase at Boca Chica in November. After three years, an effort by CEO Elon Musk to officially rename the area Starbase, Texas, is gaining momentum. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer Sections of SpaceX's Starship and Super Heavy rockets are seen in July at the company's so-called Starbase assembly and launch facility at Boca Chica in Cameron County, which produces both rockets. William Luther/Staff SpaceX's Starship rocket launches from Starbase during its second test flight on Nov. 18, 2023, in Boca Chica. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images People watch a test of the fire suppression system from the base of SpaceX's Starship on the launch pad from a distance after being drawn to SpaceX Starbase at Boca Chica in November for the second launch of Starship. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer SpaceXs Starbase facility at Boca Chica in Cameron County produces and launches the companys Starship. After three years, an effort by CEO Elon Musk to officially rename the area Starbase, Texas, is gaining momentum. William Luther/Staff

For years, Elon Musk has been pushing to rename the area around the South Texas facilities where SpaceX builds its Starship mega-rocket.

Now, as the private space company edges toward regular launches from its launch pad at Boca Chica, pitches a potential land-swap deal to take over 43 acres of adjoining state park land and aims to build a $15 million retail center nearby, the tide may be turning for creation of Starbase, Texas.

The Cameron County Spaceport Development Corp. last week passed a resolution calling for a U.S. Postal Service mailing name designation for Starbase. The post office hasnt commented on the idea, but the move could be a step toward realizing Musk's dream.

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Starbase has gained name recognition and attention as a specific geographic location, the development corporation stated in its resolution, a key post office criteria for a mailing name.

The move comes after officials of Cameron County and the nearby city of Brownsville both voiced official support for recognizing Starbase as an official place.

The development corporation's resolution notes that SpaceX growth in South Texas has had a tremendous positive impact on job creation and economic growth in the region, to the direct benefit of the residents of Cameron County. Beyond the numbers, it said the companys operations there have captured the attention of the nation and the world in connection with space exploration.

The resolution also points out there is no other Starbase in the state nor is the name associated with another ZIP code.

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Were with you guys

Nick Serafy, chairman of the spaceport development corporation, said the resolution echoed a similar resolution passed last year by the Cameron County Commissioners Court.

It pretty much just says were with you guys, whatever you need to do, were happy to support it, he said.

Serafy has been involved in the countys spaceport development since before SpaceX landed at Boca Chica Beach. The rise of Starship and Starbase have been phenomenal, way beyond expectations, he said.

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The corporations move follows the Brownsville City Commissions Dec. 12 resolution supporting the renaming the area east of Brownsville, Texas, to Starbase. 

Brownsville Mayor John Cowen Jr. also voiced the citys support in a letter to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, a part of the U.S. Geological Survey.

Locals use the name Starbase, as it reflects the enthusiasm for this area as the frontier of space exploration, where rockets will be launched to the Moon and Mars he wrote.

According to a city statement, Starbase has developed into a vibrant community with over 100 residential units, a school, and a restaurant.

The local government moves to rally federal support for Starbase comes amid a recent surge of activity at the site 20 miles east of Brownsville.

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Accelerating growth

Last week, SpaceX's plans for a retail development it calls RioWest became public through a state filing that includes details of a restaurant and shopping center overlooking the Rio Grande near Starbase. The project aims to serve the neighborhood development and adjacent community at-large, the filing said.

And, in a deal set to be discussed this week in Austin, SpaceX is seeking to acquire 43 acres from Boca Chica State Park to expand the footprint of Starbase. In exchange for the state land, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department would receive 477 undeveloped acres 10 miles northwest of the launch pad near Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge  Bahia Grande Unit.

Since November, SpaceX launched its second fully stacked Starship, added a Gateway to Mars sign at the launch site and said its aiming to send another Starship aloft in February. The timing depends on the FAAs completion of safety reviews and licensing, though.

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Indeed, much has changed at the commercial space companys South Texas site since March 2021 when Musk proclaimed on social media that hed rename the area near Boca Chica Beach. Creating the city of Starbase, Texas, he said, and From thence to Mars, and hence the stars. He added that the city will encompass an area much larger than Boca Chica.

The announcement garnered cheers from SpaceX fans, a mixed response from locals and criticism from others. County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. said SpaceX and Musk must abide by all state incorporation statutes. Cameron County will process any appropriate petitions in conformity with the applicable law.

From there, the name took hold, and a massive sign of white block letters solidified STARBASE for the thousands of visitors who pass by the Starship production facility off Texas 4. Over the years, it's become a popular site for family photos and selfies of visitors to the site.

But any official designation by nearby communities, Cameron County, the Postal Service or geological survey remained murky Monday.
Dallas-based fuel distributor Sunoco has agreed to buy San Antonio pipeline operator NuStar Energy in a stock-swap transaction valued at $7.3 billion. Will Waldron/Staff file photo

Dallas-based gas station owner Sunoco LP is acquiring oil pipeline and terminal operator NuStar Energy LP in a $7.3 billion deal that could see San Antonio lose another corporate headquarters.

Sunoco said the move was intended to diversify the company and give it ownership of a key part of its supply chain. The deal will expand Sunocos crude oil transportation and storage system by adding NuStars existing pipelines and terminals for fuel-related products such as oil and ammonia in the Midwest and on the West Coast.

As we bring together two strong and stable companies, we would not be here today if not for the many talented and hardworking employees of both Sunoco and NuStar, Sunoco CEO Joseph Kim told investors on a Monday morning call. We look forward to working with the NuStar team to take the combined company to new levels of success.

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Despite its billing as a joint investors call, NuStar CEO Brad Barron did not speak.

The long-term future of his companys San Antonio headquarters and 1,200-person workforce remained unclear late Monday.

In April, NuStar sold its North Side headquarters to Truist Financial Corp. for $103 million but kept its offices there under a sale-leaseback deal. It used proceeds to pay off existing debt. In a statement Monday, NuStar said it has a 20-year lease on the building and that Sunoco has committed to keeping it open for two more years.

Sunoco hasnt disclosed its plans for the future of NuStar or its leadership. It didnt respond to a request for comment.

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The acquisition leaves Valero Energy Corp., which NuStar spun off in 2007, as the only major energy company in the city.

NuStar shares gained more than 18% to close Monday at $21.32. Sunoco fell about 4.5% to close at $56.74.

The all-stock deal comes just over a week after Sunoco  one of the nations largest independent fuel retailers  reshuffled some of its assets, selling 204 Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico convenience stores to 7-Eleven in a $1 billion deal and agreeing to acquire liquids terminals in Europe. Terms of that acquisition were not disclosed.

Under terms announced Monday, NuStars unitholders will receive 0.4 Sunoco common units, worth about $23.78 based on Fridays closing price, for each NuStar unit, a nearly 32% premium to the San Antonio companys closing price of $18.03.

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The move was appealing, Kim said, because Sunoco currently has limited fuel distribution in the West. The company has a terminal in Brownsville, where it has been bringing product in by ship. Soon, it should be able to utilize the NuStars pipelines, allowing it to expand its presence across the U.S.

Bottom line, the proforma company will be more stable, stronger financially and better positioned for growth, he said.

Sunocos general partner is owned by Energy Transfer Operating LP, a subsidiary of Energy Transfer LP. Thats the same company NuSar rejected a takeover attempt from in 2018.

Analysts with Mizhou Financial Group wrote Monday they had mixed reaction to the acquisition and said the market will take time to digest the announcement. The analysts said for a deal of such size, the combined companys projected 10% growth over three years left them wanting.

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Sunoco said it secured a $1.6 billion bridge loan to refinance NuStars preferred units, subordinated notes, revolving credit facility and receivables financing agreement. Sunoco executives said on the call they dont expect the NuStar deal to face major anti-trust issues.



Sunoco said its NuStar deal has been approved unanimously by the boards of both companies and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2024, pending shareholder and regulatory approvals.
Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Robert D. Gaylor is seen in an undated photo dowloaded Monday, Jan. 22, 2024 from the Air Force website. Taylor died Wednesday, Jan 17, 2024 at his home in San Antonio. Courtesy/U.S. Air Force Photo

Retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Bob Gaylor, a storied motivational speaker known for aphorisms such as aptitude and attitude lead to opportunity, died last week at his home in San Antonio.

His family described him in a Facebook post as the man that was born and brought up during the Depression Era; the man that never forgot the value of a dollar; the man that knew about and believed in attitude, aptitude, and motivation.

Gaylor died in his sleep early Wednesday. He was 93.

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The Noncommissioned Office Academy at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland is named for Gaylor, an influential chief who advised Secretary of the Air Force John C. Stetson and Gen. David C. Jones and Gen. Lew Allen Jr.s chiefs of staff. He often discussed the welfare of airmen and the career paths of enlistees in the Air Force.

In retirement, Gaylor, the fifth chief master sergeant appointed to the top noncommissioned officer position, continued serving as an advocate for the Air Force and its troops, routinely posting videos on his Facebook page and making occasional public appearances.

Air Force Col. Sean McKenna, public affairs chief for the Pacific Air Forces in Honolulu, said Gaylor was probably the most famous chief master sergeant in his service.

Hes the one that stands out, McKenna added. Hes on the Mount Rushmore of chief master sergeants.

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Retired Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Dave Smith said he didnt know Gaylor well when he was in the Air Force, but later took his life lessons to heart.

Gaylor retired from the Air Force in 1979 and went to work for USAA. The job: crisscrossing the nation giving lectures on leadership.

Chief Gaylor traveled around the country, around the Air Force, after he retired, giving leadership presentations at bases and NCO academies and airman leadership schools all over the Air Force, recalled Smith, 79, of San Antonio, a retired chief spokesman for the Air Education and Training Command. So tremendous numbers of folks had the opportunity to hear Chief Gaylor and hear his story and learn from his life lessons on how to approach a career.

Those suggestions often focused on knowing the job.

He always talked about aptitude, continuing to learn, Smith said. He uses three words in his discussion on how to approach a career, and aptitude was a starter. Attitude, he said, was what got you through, and aptitude and attitude give you opportunities.

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And I know so many people, me included, who got that mindset: Hey, this is a pretty good job. I like what Im doing and the job is no longer a job. Its an avocation,  he said.

Robert D. Gaylor was born in Bellevue, Iowa, but spent most of his youth in Indiana. He entered the Air Force in September 1948 and was assigned to security police, where he served until becoming a military training instructor at Lackland AFB in September 1957. He remained in that job five years before returning to security police.

Gaylor was an honor graduate of the Second Air Force Noncommissioned Officer Academy at Barksdale AFB, La., and became an instructor, in time reopening the NCO Academy there. He became senior enlisted adviser for the Second Air Force in 1970, and then spent time at Headquarters United States Air Forces in Europe, where he traveled to bases teaching management.

He became chief master sergeant of the Air Force in 1977.

Gaylor continued making speeches well after retiring from USAA. He refused to take money for his expenses, but once told McKenna that his organization could make a donation to a charity in lieu of payment.

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That was the first thing that struck me  this guy is not in it for the money. Hes in it to pay it forward, said McKenna, who previously served with the Air Education and Training Command in San Antonio. Hes very motivational. He was really talking about the airmen. They saw him as a fatherly figure, they saw him as a mentor.

His homespun stories went down so well with the airmen, he said. He made them feel very comfortable, and so they could see themselves being as successful as the chief.

Gaylors topics were serious, right up to his final days. He posted a Jan. 10 video that tackled national defense issues and took aim at famous public figures, including former President Donald Trump.

In a Facebook post, Gaylor conceded that some of his opinions in his latest edition of Wednesday with the Chief videos could be misguided, and then let loose.

In no particular order, first the defense of our country, he said. Everything, everything in defense, begins with one word: And that one word is threat.

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Before Pearl Harbor and 9-11, he said, the United States had data but the failure came in how it was analyzed. Leaders today charged with assessing information about potential threats face similar dilemmas.

I want you to see the opportunity for breakdown in that picture, he said. I think we have so much data, we dont get around to analyzing all of it and could very well overlook something. And then I think the problem is with the people who are given the data. They dont know what to do about it. They dont know what action to take.

Gaylor reserved his most colorful comments for President Joe Bidens son, Hunter Biden, and a host of politicians. He said Trump; former President Bill Clinton and his wife, former presidential nominee and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J.; Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.; Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif.; and Hunter Biden should be jailed because its obvious they have committed crimes and we know theyre not going to prison, but they ought to go for awhile.

And they have to all be put in the same cell block in a big circle  separate cells to where they see each other  and then you could bring in Rachel Maddow to sit in the middle and interview them, ask, How are you doing? 

The current chief master sergeant of the Air Force, JoAnne Bass, described Gaylor in a statement as a patriot of unparalleled honor and dignity.

He devoted more than 75 years of his life, both in uniform and out, to actively serving our airmen and their families, Bass said.
Shokare Sho Nakpodia, DreamWeek founder and CEO, addresses the crowd during the San Antonio Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commissions general committee meeting at the Claude Black Community Center on Monday, Jan. 8. DreamWeek events run alongside a host of MLK events from Jan. 12-28. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

Shokare Sho Nakpodias vision for DreamWeek goes back to the 1990s when he drove a cab in New York City.

An immigrant from Nigeria, hed arrived in the metropolis after studying in London for a civil engineering degree at the University of Leeds. Steering the taxi through traffic, he listened as his passengers opinions ran the gamut of topics, fascinated by customers views in various languages.

He hoped to become a writer but found his calling in the graphic arts. After studying at the School of Visual Arts, Nakpodia moved his family to San Antonio, where he started the Mighty Group, a local marketing and design firm.

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In 2013, Nakpodia founded DreamWeek in response to then-Mayor Julian Castros challenge to eight advertising agencies  plan a way to highlight the citys MLK march.

DreamWeek is a launching pad for many initiatives, Nakpodia said. Its a front-row seat opportunity that brings the issues home a little bit more.

On Friday afternoon, more than 100 people gathered at the Dawson Family Hall at the Witte Museum for a DreamWeek event  a luncheon to honor individuals and organizations for being a DreamVoice of tolerance, equality and diversity.

About the author A 22-year veteran of the Air Force, Vincent T. Davis embarked on a second career as a journalist and found his calling. Observing and listening across San Antonio, he finds intriguing tales to tell about everyday people. He shares his stories with Express-News subscribers every Monday morning.

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On Saturday, the Mayors Dream Ball at the Boeing Center at Tech Port will spotlight the citys talents. The summit runs through Jan. 29. This years theme is The Compassion Drive.

Before the award ceremony, keynote speaker Aba G. Blankson, chief marketing and communication officer for the NAACP, offered words of encouragement.

Each of you possess a talent, she said. Let us recommit to justice. My challenge to you is to be an activist and a compassionate architect.

Each recipient received a clear, glass square trophy etched with their name.

Amira Abdelkader, owner and operator of Jamilina Wellness, has been one of the events hosting partners for many years. She was recognized for helping her community achieve health and wellness through personalized and holistic approaches. Abdelkader, with more than 40 years of nursing experience, scheduled five blood drives in January.

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Pastor Shetigho Nakpodia, the founders sister, was recognized as a beacon of light on the East Side for preparing 800 meals for the hungry. The pastor and her volunteers feed those living on the streets and in need at her Redeemers Praise Church near downtown.

In 1999, Al Aguilar and Giselda Girard founded Creative Civilization, an advertising agency known across the nation. The agencys name was inspired while standing at the foot of the grand Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. Girard was featured twice in Latino Leaders Magazines Top 100 Most Influential Latinos in America. Aguilars work is featured in a 20-year exhibit, American Enterprise, at the Smithsonian Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

Carl Booker founded Avista Products, which publishes the news weekly, Black Life Texas, and Blackbook, a yearly 300-page guide to Black businesses. He also produces other guides for churches, health care providers and real estate for the Black community.

Nykita Riley, a founding DreamWeek ambassador, has volunteered and supported the events mission since its inception.

Community First Health Plans and South Texas Blood & Tissue both received the advent award. Community First works at a grassroots level to help families obtain health care coverage; South Texas Blood & Tissue has provided blood to the region for more than 45 years, focused on saving and improving lives.

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The Divine Nine Award went to members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

At the official DreamWeek kickoff, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said the event is one of the most celebrated two weeks on the citys calendar each year. He said San Antonio, home of one of the largest MLK marches, is the perfect place for the 17-day summit.

The free exchange of ideas on crucial human issues is eye-opening and inspirational, Nirenberg said. And by truly hearing and seeing each other, we open the door to greater understanding and eliminate the clutter of closed-minded habits of the past.

The first year, hundreds flocked to the summit that offered opportunities for people from different cultures to share ideas, listen to panels and talk about todays pressing issues. Like Nakpodia, they were dreamers: young and older residents of different races, creeds and religions. And when they all gathered to talk about controversial issues, there was one caveat  respect one anothers opinion.

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The number of attendees has grown to more than an estimated 100,000 guests at more than 150 events. Events have spread to more locations across the city to accommodate its growth.

Nakpodia said the summit is the largest community-curated event in the nation.
The U.S. Postal Service will consider whether efficiency could be increased by transferring some of its operations based in McAllen and Corpus Christi to San Antonio. Paul Ratje/AFP via Getty Images

Mail processing operations in McAllen and Corpus Christi could be transferred to San Antonio as part of a $40 billion plan to improve the nations postal network.

The U.S. Postal Service released a letter of intent this month informing the public that it will conduct reviews of distribution centers in McAllen and Corpus Christi to improve its mail and package processing, logistics and delivery networks.

The two facilities are among many nationwide selected for review through the federal agencys 10-year Delivering for America plan to modernize the nations aging postal network.

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The Postal Service will be looking for ways to better allocate resources, improve customer service and cut down costs at the two Texas facilities. The review will evaluate whether efficiency could be increased by transferring some mail processing operations currently performed in McAllen and Corpus Christi to the San Antonio Processing & Distribution Center, a news release says.

With a significant amount of mail traveling over long distances, the agency said mail destined for outside the McAllen and Corpus Christi areas may receive better service and be more cost-effectively distributed by aggregating it with mail and packages from other areas going to the same places.

The review will not result in the facilitys closure or career employee layoffs, the memo said. If operations from either city move to San Antonio, it is highly likely under those circumstances that the facilities will be repurposed as local processing centers, sorting and delivery centers or both.

Any such repurposing will result in a revitalized, modernized and upgraded facility with improved employee amenities and a better working environment, the agency explained.

The Postal Service described the evaluation as the first step in its review and investment process in this facility and said it does not expect business mail entries, post offices, stations and branch retail services to change. Delivery services will be unaffected.

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Other possible changes include investing in the redesign of either operation to accommodate changing mail products and mail flow with modern operating strategies, equipment and improved employee amenities.

The Postal Service also could expand operations by adding sorting and delivery center functions, incorporate expanded retail functions and increase local package delivery functions.

The overall network redesign contemplated in the DFA plan is intended to reduce handlings, improve efficiencies and optimize letter, flat and package processing for predictable, reliable and cost-effective operations, the Postal Service said.
A woman had to be rescued Monday morning after she was swept away by flood waters near Austin Highway. Ken Branca A group of homeless people camped in a drainage tunnel near I-10 and El Monte Boulevard were swept away by flood waters Monday. Ken Branca

Several people were swept away early Monday after heavy overnight rains led to flash floods across San Antonio.

A group of homeless people camped out in the drainage tunnel near Interstate 10 and El Monte Boulevard had to be rescued by San Antonio firefighters after they were swept away by floodwaters, according to the San Antonio Fire Department. Its estimated the group consisted of about five or six people.

Firefighters had to use rope to tie themselves off before going into the tunnels to yell for people. A boat also was brought out.

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SAFD spokesperson Woody Woodward said the department sent out an additional round of units Monday to look for people and completed the operation by noon but still had no word on any recoveries or rescues.

On the Northeast Side, firefighters had to rescue a woman near Austin Highway and Corinne Drive. Authorities said four people were driving down Corinne when they ran into floodwaters.
China's financial regulator pledges further opening up

Xinhua) 10:19, January 22, 2024

BEIJING, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- 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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Anthony is a native Texan and very passionate about covering any type of weather that you throw at him. He earned a degree in Meteorology from Valparaiso University in 2017. Anthony has worked as a broadcast meteorologist for six years, one at NBC Montana and the next five at NewsWest 9 in Midland before joining the Express-News in July 2023. In his free time, Anthony enjoys watching sports, checking out local restaurants and breweries, and getting outside whenever the heat allows for it. If you have any story ideas, questions about the weather or restaurant suggestions, email Anthony at anthony.franze@express-news.net.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown Developers Eye Zelda Spinoff Project

Ubisoft Montpellier, the development team behind Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, has revealed a keen interest in working on a spinoff game within the Legend of Zelda universe. The idea was brought up during a recent interaction on the Metroidvania subreddit, where developers engaged with fans to discuss various aspects of the newly released Prince of Persia title.

Read Also: Call of Duty Introduces Superhero MP Mode with 'The Boys' Event in MW3

Eagerness to Craft Zelda Spinoff

During a Q&A session on the Metroidvania subreddit, developers from Ubisoft Montpellier, creators of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, discussed their aspirations beyond the current project. In response to a fan's question about creating a game for a different series or intellectual property (IP), Remi Boutin, the senior game designer, expressed eagerness to collaborate with the Legend of Zelda IP.

Boutin's mention of a potential "strange spin-off based on Adventure of Link" adds an intriguing layer to their creative ambitions. While not a confirmation of their next project, this insight highlights the team's openness to exploring diverse gaming universes, as seen in their recent work on The Lost Crown, a Metroidvania title.

A Dream Collaboration: Navigating the Possibilities

Collaborations between major gaming studios and established franchises are not uncommon, and Ubisoft's history of working with Nintendo in the Mario + Rabbids games adds an interesting dimension to this revelation. Although there is no concrete indication of a Prince of Persia and Legend of Zelda crossover, the positive relationship between Ubisoft and Nintendo opens the door to exciting possibilities. While Nintendo tends to be selective about collaborations involving its IPs, the previous success with Ubisoft makes the prospect intriguing and worth considering.

As fans eagerly await further developments, the idea of a Legend of Zelda spinoff from the creators of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown remains an exciting and plausible concept.

Related Article: Ace Combat 7 Deluxe Edition Soars onto Nintendo Switch with Exclusive DLC
Israel is being urged by the U.S. and other ally countries to transition to low-intensity military operations in Gaza to avoid civilian casualties.

Thankfully, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced on Monday, Jan. 15, that they will start scaling down their attacks in the Palestinian city.

He confirmed that the intensive maneuvering stage of Israel's military offensive in southern and northern Gaza would end soon. However, the decision of IDF to with Israeli troops from the Palestinian city creates divisions among war cabinet members.

Israel's Military Withdrawal Creates Divisions Within Israeli War Cabinet

The Israeli war cabinet members are having new public divisions because of the military withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces.

Israel's defense and military officials are debating if they should focus on eliminating Hamas terrorists or prioritize the safety of hostages.

Former military chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot, one of the war cabinet members, said Israel should show courage to lead a large deal to ensure the release of hostages.

"Your time is running out, and each daythat passes endangers their lives," he added via NBC News.

His fellow war cabinet war Benny Gantz also agreed with him, saying that negotiation for a deal to release the remaining war hostages should be pushed.

Meanwhile, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir condemned the decision of of IDF to withdraw Israeli soldiers from the Gaza Strip. He said that the IDF's move was an acute and severe mistake that could cost human lives.

Aside from Ben-Gvir, other members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government also criticized the move of the Israel Defense Forces.

Israel's war cabinet members are not the only ones in conflict. Even Israeli civilians are arguing if the military operations should be scaled down.

Unfortunately, over 65% of them said that IDF should not reduce its aerial attacks and other military activities in the Gaza Strip.

Read Also: Israel Cabinet Approves 2024 Budget, Adds $15 Billion To Supplement War in Gaza

What To Know About IDF's Military Withdrawal

According to CNN World, IDF's military withdrawal involves pulling out Israel's 36th division. This military group consists of engineering and infantry companies, as well as armored groups.

Recently, an IDF spokesperson said that the withdrawal of the 36th division was conducted so that Israeli troops could undergo a period of refreshment and training.

"At the end of the period, and according to the assessment of the situation, it will be decided on the continuation of the operational activity of the division's forces according to the operational need," said the official.

Related Article: US Urges Israel to Scale Back Attacks in Gaza, Claims It's the Right Time Despite Hamas Releasing Hostage Videos
Legislators in Hawaii started a new legislative session on Wednesday, January 17, pledging to tackle the pressing issues highlighted by the tragic August 2023 wildfire that destroyed the ancient town of Lahaina. These are the persistent danger of wildfires and the severe shortage of affordable housing.

Nearly six months after the fire that killed 100 people, Lahaina is still in ruins as cleanup moves slowly and systematically. Even with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) rental subsidies, many displaced individuals are still unable to locate somewhere to rent, so the agency is paying for their hotel accommodations. One factor is the high demand for vacation rentals in West Maui, which causes the housing market to be rather tight.

Getting to the bottom of these issues is critical for Maui and the rest of the state, according to lawmakers.

Addressing Housing Issues

In a report by The Associated Press, Democratic Senate President Ron Kouchi said that reducing the risk of fires will be one of the chamber's highest priorities. "And as we go forward, we want to make sure it doesn't happen on any other island," he added.

Democrat House Speaker Scott Saiki said that the people of Maui and Lahaina must be addressed first.

One method to achieve this, per Saiki's statements to reporters, would be to put emphasis on water consumption for affordable housing. A University of Hawaii study found that 15% of Maui's housing stock and 40% of Lahaina's are vacation rentals, and Saiki wants the legislature to do something about it.

Saiki said that it is uncertain whether the counties can handle short-term rentals on their own, so it is crucial for the state government and the legislature to address the issue directly.

Rep. Nadine Nakamura, the majority leader of the House, said that the bipartisan wildfire legislative package contains provisions that would explicitly grant counties the power to eliminate short-term rentals.

See Also: Maui Children Face Mental Health Crisis, Housing Insecurity After Deadly Wildfire in Hawaii

Demands Expressed by Protesters

Members of the Lahaina Strong protest group, who have been setting up camp outside of hotels on Kaanapali Beach to get politicians to take action on their housing crisis, staged a march through Honolulu and a demonstration at the Capitol.

Jordan Ruidas, one of the organizers who traveled to Oahu for the event, stated: "There are still over 5,000 Lahaina fire victims displaced and sheltering in hotels. The concept of home remains a distant dream."

Ruidas said the Lahaina Strong organization is requesting that the county cancel the exceptions it has granted to 2,500 West Maui vacation rental units that do not possess the necessary licenses to be leased for stays of less than 30 days continuously. Additionally, the group is requesting a pause on rent hikes and evictions, as well as a postponement of mortgage payments for houses destroyed in the fire.

See Also: Native Hawaiians Feel Pushed Out of Homes Amidst Rising Cost of Living, Gentrification
President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to headline a rally in Virginia, addressing concerns over the Republican agenda to eliminate abortion rights entirely in the event of a GOP return to the White House.

President Joe Biden's reelection campaign will push to highlight the importance of the upcoming election for women's health and access to health care on what would have been the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris will attend a rally in Virginia to discuss the Republican plan to completely eradicate abortion rights if a Republican president returns to the White House.

This comes after Virginia Democrats won majorities in the state Legislature due in large part to the abortion issue.

How Will Democrats Respond?

Democrats also intend to launch an ad campaign targeting women and swing voters in battleground states. It will focus on the impact of abortion bans across the nation and how they have affected women and healthcare providers.

"Donald Trump is the reason that more than 1 in 3 American women of reproductive age don't have the freedom to make their own health care decisions," Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a statement. "Now, he and MAGA Republicans are running to go even further if they retake the White House."

"Trump directly paved the way for Republican extremists across the country to enact draconian bans that are hurting women and threatening doctors," she continued. "In 2024, a vote for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris is a vote to restore Roe, and a vote for Donald Trump is a vote to ban abortion across the country."

Roe v. Wade was struck down in 2022. This ended all federal protections and paved the way for states to restrict access to abortion.

The Biden administration would like to hammer home the idea that a Republican president will certainly work toward a national abortion ban if elected in 2024.

The leading GOP candidate, Donald J. Trump, has repeatedly avoided answering questions about whether he would sign legislation restricting abortion even more.

In July 2022, the Biden administration issued guidance declaring that the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (Emtala), a federal statute that governs emergency rooms, permits abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with a medical emergency, even in states where it is illegal.
The African Union (AU), European Union (EU), and United States (US) have urgently called for an immediate ceasefire and constructive dialogue in Sudan.

This appeal follows months of conflict between Sudan's armed forces and the rival Rapid Support Forces, with tensions escalating since April and resulting in widespread displacement and disruption of education for millions of children, as per Associated Press.

International Summit in Kampala Urges Ceasefire in Sudan

The AU, EU, US, and United Nations (UN) representatives, who convened in Kampala, Uganda, emphasized the severe threat the Sudanese crisis poses to regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of 7 million people, with 19 million children kept out of school, according to the AU, EU, US, and UN The situation has prompted Michael Hammer, US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, to call on Sudanese factions to adhere to international humanitarian law and fulfill commitments to halt the fighting.

The plea for a ceasefire intensifies following an emergency meeting of the East African regional bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), held in Kampala. The meeting also addressed the rising tension between Somalia and Ethiopia over an agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, Somalia's breakaway region.

The IGAD summit, attended by Sudan's army leader Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and the commander of the Rapid Support Forces Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, emphasized the necessity of an unconditional ceasefire. Failure to comply, warned Hammer, could lead to the break-up of Sudan, urging the leaders to take action consistent with their claims of wanting to end the conflict, according to ABC News.

Read Also: FTC's Click-To-Cancel Rule Disappoints Cable, Broadband Companies

UN Investigates Sudan Human Rights

At the same time, the UN has announced the launch of the Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, which seeks to investigate human rights violations that have occurred since April. An international mission, set up by the UN Human Rights Council in October 2023, has the objective of holding accountable those who are responsible for committing violations.

In a related matter, the AU, EU, and US have expressed concern over escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia. The friction arises from Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland on January 1, granting Ethiopia access to the sea in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland's independence. This development has angered Somalia, and the US particularly fears that these tensions may undermine efforts to combat al-Qaida-linked militants in Somalia.

EU special envoy for the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, highlighted the common link between the two crises and stressed the need for a collective response from Horn of Africa countries to address attacks on ships by Yemen-based Houthi rebels. The situation is further complicated by Somalia's threat of war to prevent the port lease deal, causing the AU to call for restraint and "meaningful dialogue."

As the international community intensifies its efforts to address these crises, the world awaits the response of the involved parties and hopes for a swift and peaceful resolution to bring stability to the Horn of Africa, Reuters reported.

Related Article: North Korea Tests Underwater Nuclear Weapon System, Criticizes US-Led Joint Drills
The conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has resulted in the tragic loss of 25,000 Palestinian lives, according to the health ministry in the territory.

The United Nations chief has expressed sadness and condemned the significant number of civilian casualties as both heartbreaking and completely unacceptable.

UN Chief Decries 'Utterly Unacceptable' Killings in Gaza

According to the ministry, a significant number of casualties were women and children, with the possibility of numerous bodies still unaccounted for beneath the rubble throughout Gaza.

Addressing a global summit in the Ugandan capital of Kampala, the UN secretary general, Antonio Guterres, strongly criticized Israel's three-month assault.

In a statement on Sunday, Guterres expressed strong disapproval of the lack of progress towards a two-state solution in the Middle East, deeming it completely unacceptable. The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has consistently refused to consider a two-state solution, with his most recent rejection occurring last week in response to pressure from the United States.

Israeli officials on Saturday strongly disagreed with remarks made by US President Joe Biden, suggesting that a two-state solution may still be possible during Netanyahu's tenure.

In a statement on Sunday, Guterres emphasized the importance of recognizing the right to statehood for the Palestinian people. He warned that failing to do so would only serve to perpetuate a conflict that poses a significant risk to global peace and security.

Israel has faced increasing pressure from the EU to seek a resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. Last week, the European Parliament urged for a lasting end to the conflict in Gaza. Per Politico, they emphasized the importance of Hamas releasing the hostages taken during the October attacks and the complete demilitarization of Gaza.

According to Guterres, the military operations in Israel have caused extensive destruction and loss of civilian lives, which he considers to be unprecedented in his experience as secretary general. He made these remarks during the opening of the G77+China, a coalition of 135 developing countries.

Israel has faced criticism for its offensive in Gaza, which was launched in response to Hamas's attack into southern Israel. The offensive resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people, many of whom were civilians in their homes and at a music festival.

There are still 132 hostages in Gaza, with reports suggesting that at least 27 have lost their lives, following the seizure by Hamas.Israeli forces are making progress in the southern areas of Gaza, which are currently housing a large number of people who have been displaced due to ongoing conflict.

It is estimated that a significant number of displaced individuals have found shelter in the town of Rafah, located on the border with Egypt. They are currently residing in temporary camps, shelters managed by the United Nations, and private apartments.

Read Also: Israeli Tanks Push into Khan Younis as Fighting Rages On

Gaza Conflict Update

On Sunday morning, thick plumes of smoke filled the sky above Khan Younis, the main southern city. The Israeli army reported that they had taken action to neutralize a group of individuals they deemed as threats.

There were additional accounts of ongoing clashes in the northern region, where Israeli forces are facing challenges in eliminating Hamas militants who employ an extensive tunnel system to carry out unexpected assaults.In the past 24 hours, Gaza's hospitals have received a staggering number of bodies - at least 178 - along with nearly 300 wounded individuals, as reported by Ashraf al-Qidra, a spokesperson for the health ministry.

According to the media office of the Hamas government, the casualties were unable to be taken to hospitals due to the ongoing artillery shelling in Khan Younis, Tal al-Hawa area in Gaza City, and the northern region. During a briefing on Saturday evening, Daniel Hagari, the Israeli military spokesperson, announced the discovery of a tunnel in Khan Younis. This tunnel had been used to hold hostages in the past.

Throughout the war, the Israeli military has acknowledged civilian casualties while alleging that Hamas operates in densely populated areas and uses civilians as shields, a claim that the group denies, as per The Guardian.

Related Article: Israeli Officials Conflicted Over War in Gaza
North Korea made an announcement on Sunday stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown interest in visiting the country in the near future. The revelation emerges as both countries discover shared interests amidst escalating tensions with the United States.

Following meetings between North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, Putin, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week, the North Korean Foreign Ministry highlighted Putin's expressed interest in visiting.

Putin Plans to Visit North Korea Soon

In a statement released by state media, it was revealed that the two nations have reached an agreement to strengthen their strategic and tactical collaboration with Russia, with the goal of establishing a "new multi-polarised international order."

This is perceived as their collaborative endeavor to establish a unified front against Washington.Kim Jong Un, a world leader who has shown support for Putin's actions in Ukraine, has been actively working to enhance relations with Russia to overcome diplomatic isolation in the face of a growing nuclear standoff involving Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo.

In a statement released on Sunday, the North Korean Foreign Ministry expressed its disapproval of the UN Security Council's decision to hold an emergency meeting regarding the recent ballistic test conducted by the country. According to state media, a recently developed missile has been described as an intermediate-range solid-fuel projectile equipped with a hypersonic warhead.

The ministry stated that the test conducted on January 14 was a regular activity aimed at enhancing defense capabilities and assured that it did not pose any danger to neighboring countries.

South Korea has urged the Security Council to take action regarding North Korea's increasing missile tests and threats. Nevertheless, Russia and China, as permanent members of the council, have consistently opposed US-led attempts to impose stricter sanctions on North Korea, highlighting the growing rift over Russia's actions in Ukraine.

There is growing concern among the international community regarding the increasing alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow. Speculations have arisen about potential arms cooperation, raising worries that North Korea might be supplying munitions to Russia in support of its conflict in Ukraine.

Read Also: US, China Hold Military-to-Military Talks for First Time Since 2021 To Discuss Relations

Russia Threatens 'War' Against West

The United States, South Korea, and Japan have taken steps to enhance their joint military exercises, which Kim Jong-un has portrayed as invasion rehearsals. The trio is also enhancing their deterrence plans centered on US assets capable of nuclear deployment.

Cautionary statements about a possible shift in global dynamics had already been issued by Sergei Lavrov, who conveyed to Western nations that their era of "global domination" has come to an end.

During a significant press conference, the individual closely associated with the Kremlin attributed the initiation of a "war" against Russia to the West. They also asserted that Moscow and its allies have now achieved a higher level of influence on the global stage compared to NATO.

In a recent statement, Lavrov discussed the deteriorating state of Russia's relations with the West, expressing concerns about the increasing nuclear risks and the overall hostile global environment. According to his statement, the US and its allies have been dominant on the global stage for the past 500 years, with little to no competition except during the Soviet era.

According to Lavrov, this emerging alliance is now outpacing the development of the US and other Western countries. Without explicitly naming the countries involved, he expressed his enthusiasm for the current state of China-Russian relations, describing it as a remarkable period in history.

Veteran Russian MP Alexander Osovtsov believes that the West's enemies are already engaged in what he considers to be the start of World War Three, and he suggests that we are all involved in it.

A prominent critic of Putin emphasized that it is crucial for the international community to acknowledge the interconnectedness of the conflict in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas dispute, viewing them as two components of a larger conflict. According to Osovtsov, World War Three began nearly two years ago when Putin's tanks crossed the border and the invasion of Ukraine commenced on February 24, 2022.

Meanwhile, the Baltic states are urgently strengthening their defenses along their borders with Russia and Belarus, as Europe prepares for a potential full-scale conflict. Admiral Rob Bauer, the chief of NATO's military committee, has emphasized the importance of Western nations being prepared for a new era of conflict. He believes that the alliance must undergo a transformation in its approach to warfare.

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have made a joint decision to construct a network of bunkers along their borders with Russia and Belarus. This initiative aims to safeguard their forces in the event of any potential attack. The announcement was made by Estonia's Defence Ministry on Friday, The Sun reported.

Related Article: India Assures Support for Russia During Modi-Putin Discussion About Strategic Roadmap Including BRICS
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the idea of Palestinian sovereignty after discussions with US President Joe Biden regarding the future of Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel's security requirements would not align with the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The Israeli leader did not provide any other details in his one-line post in Hebrew. The territory west of Jordan encompasses Israel, the occupied West Bank, and Hamas-run Gaza, where Israel is battling the militant group following the October 7 attacks.

Netanyahu Rejects Two-State Solution to End War With Hamas

Biden and his top officials - including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who visited Israel and the region last week - have said the creation of a Palestinian state with guarantees for Israel's security is the only way to finally bring peace and stability to the Middle East.

"I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state," Netanyahu said in a post on X.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Sunday called opposition to a two-state solution "unacceptable."

Amid reports the US, Egypt and Qatar want Israel to join a new phase of talks with Hamas, Netanyahu this weekend also publicly rejected what he characterized as Hamas' terms for releasing more Israeli hostages from Gaza: an end of the war, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Palestinian enclave, and the release of more Palestinians from Israeli prisons.

"If we agree to this - our soldiers fell in vain. If we agree to this - we will not be able to guarantee the security of our citizens," Netanyahu said Sunday. Netanyahu's comments comes amid a rift with the US, Israel's most important ally, on what Gaza will look like once the conflict ends, and exposes the complex position Netanyahu is in.

The Israeli prime minister is facing competing pressure from the international community to allow the creation of a viable Palestinian state and domestically to guarantee Israel's security, most notably from far-right members of his coalition.

Adding to the pressure, he is also facing calls for early elections, with thousands taking to the streets of Tel Aviv on Saturday. Critics have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war to stay in power. War cabinet minister Gadi Eisenkot says he hopes that is not the case, but also says elections should happen within months.

Netanyahu had told Biden in a private phone call on Friday that he was not foreclosing the possibility of a Palestinian state in any form, a personal familiar with the conversation told CNN.

Netanyahu emphasizes the importance of Israel's ongoing fight for "complete victory" and the elimination of the threat posed by Hamas. However, he has not provided specific details on the strategies to achieve these goals. Gaza has been under the governance of Hamas since 2007, following the implementation of a land, sea, and air blockade by Israel on the region, which is home to 2.3 million people.

Read Also: US Raises Concern on Hezbollah's Escalating Attacks, Warns Assault Inside Washington

Netanyahu Allegedly Delays End to Israel-Hamas War

However, a prominent figure in Israel's war cabinet, former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, has expressed the view that a ceasefire is the most effective means of ensuring the release of the captives. This statement can be seen as a critique of Israel's current strategy.

Netanyahu has faced criticism for allegedly hindering a discussion at the cabinet level regarding the future of Gaza after the war. There are claims that he is deliberately delaying to avoid any potential conflicts within his coalition. The claim that Netanyahu was unnecessarily prolonging the war was dismissed as "utter nonsense" by his office.

Israel initiated its military campaign in Gaza following a series of devastating attacks on October 7, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,100 lives, predominantly innocent civilians. Additionally, around 250 individuals were captured during these incidents.

Amidst the mounting challenges faced by Netanyahu's government, a significant number of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv on Saturday, demanding fresh elections. Meanwhile, outside the prime minister's residence, demonstrators gathered in solidarity with the families of over 100 individuals still held captive by Hamas and other militant groups. Concerns have been raised about the potential risks to the lives of captives due to Israel's military activity, Aljazeera reported.

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On Sunday morning, Israeli officials approved a plan to transfer frozen Palestinian Authority (PA) tax funds from Gaza to Norway, which exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

The plan was presented to Israel's political-security cabinet at the request of the Biden administration.

Israel Approves Transfer of Frozen Palestinian Funds to Norway

The agreement was reached following intensive negotiations between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Senior US officials led by Ambassador Jack Lew, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.

Smotrich insisted that the $73,425,000 million funds per month would not reach Gaza or any PA authorities in the Strip. On Sunday, the Israeli prime minister's office released a statement saying that the frozen funds will not be transferred to the PA but will remain in the hands of a third country.

The office said, "The money or its consideration will not be transferred under any circumstances, except with the approval of the Minister of Finance of Israel, not even through a third party."

According to an agreement made in the 1990s, Israel collects tax on behalf of the Palestinians and submits monthly transfers to the PA pending the approval of the Ministry of Finance.

Many of the PA's public sector employees in the enclave were paid with transferred tax revenues even after the PA was forced to leave the Strip in 2007. However, Israeli authorities chose to withhold funds intended for the Gaza Strip nearly a month after the October 7 attack.

Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was the only government official who opposed sending the funds to Norway. Ben-Gvir said the plan does not assure that the funds will not be transferred to Gaza.

He stated that Netanyahu was constantly pushing the red line. He shared that they started moving flour trucks last week, and now they are making a decision that does not guarantee that the money will not reach the Nazis from Gaza.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant demanded the distribution of funds to sustain sustainability in the occupied West Bank, which has been a source of friction within the Israeli war cabinet.

Read Also: Iran and Hezbollah Commanders Directing Houthi Attacks in Yemen

PA Rejects Financial Rights Deduction

The PA declined to accept a partial money transfer in response to the money deduction. Senior PA official Hussein al-Sheikh wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that any deductions from their financial rights or any conditions imposed by Israel that prevent the PA from paying their people in the Gaza Strip would be rejected by them.

"We call on the international community to stop this behavior based on piracy and stealing the money of the Palestinian people and force Israel to transfer all of our money," he continued.

Nour Odeh, a political analyst based in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, claimed that Israel was punishing and undermining the PA by abusing its control over tax income.

"It's a way for Israel to assert how much control it has on everything, including the PA's ability to function," Odeh added.

According to Aljazeera, Odeh noted that it was a way for Israel to assert how much control it has over everything, including the PA's ability to function. Furthermore, withholding the revenues will have a huge impact because those employed by the PA will not receive their salaries at a time when many are starving due to Israel's siege and war.

Related Article: Bernie Sanders Urges to Block Israel Funding Amid War in Gaza




China's Zheng Qinwen into Australian Open round of 16 for first time

Xinhua) 10:20, January 22, 2024

MELBOURNE, Australia, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- China's Zheng Qinwen moved into the round of 16 of the Australian Open for the first time on Saturday after edging out compatriot Wang Yafan with a 6-4 2-6 7-6 (8) win.

12th-seeded Zheng faced a daring challenge from Wang, ranked No. 94, who forced Zheng to a decider after the two reached a tie in the first two sets.

Zheng led set three 4-2, but Wang fought back to tie things up at 6-6.

In the final moments of the match with a race to 10, Zheng earned two match points to lead 9-7. Wang saved the first match point but lost the second with a backhand forced error.

"[In] the third set, everybody is fighting, so just point by point," Zheng said after clinching victory in two hours and 40 minutes.

"We had a really difficult tiebreak. That was amazing to win the match like that," she said.

Zheng will play France's Oceane Dodin in the next round.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing widespread criticism after vetoing a city council bill known as the "How Many Stops Act" that would require officers to document every "investigative encounter" with the public.

During a press conference on Friday, the New York City mayor said that the city council's proposed legislation could slow down the response times of the New York Police Department (NYPD). He added that the bill, known as Intro. 586-A could also undermine community-oriented policing and add tens of millions of dollars in overtime to the NYPD budget.

How Many Stops Act

Adams argued that while the city council's new bill has good intentions behind it, it is misguided and compromises public safety. As per Fox News, he added that his administration supports efforts to make law enforcement more transparent, more just, and more accountable.

However, he argued that the proposed bill would handcuff the police by drowning officers in unnecessary paperwork that would saddle taxpayers with tens of millions of dollars in additional NYPD overtime each year.

In announcing his veto of the bill, Adams called on his government colleagues to work with his administration to improve public safety. The mayor cited serial stabbing suspect 27-year-old Jermain Rigueur, who is accused of at least five stabbings within about a week. He said that the bill would impede such quick arrests of dangerous individuals.

The new bill was co-sponsored by New York City Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams and was passed by the council in December last year. It would require the NYPD to log and report basic information on Level 1, 2, and 3 investigative encounters between law enforcement personnel and civilians.

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Veto of the Controversial City Council Bill

Some people opposed the bill, arguing that an officer doing a canvass can talk to dozens of people in just a few hours but may only get relevant information from one, if any. If the proposed bill is passed, every interview, whether productive or unproductive, will require a form to be filled out, according to the New York Post.

The police officer will be required to either stop to fill out the form during the interview or take notes on the characteristics of the person he talked to, the reason for the discussion, the circumstances that led to it, and other information.

On Friday, Adams said that he had discussions with several city council members regarding the bills. This suggests that he persuaded some of them to oppose the legislation.

The speaker for the council, Adrienne Adams, said that despite the New York City mayor's late push, the City Council is "prepared to override" his veto. If successful, it would mark the second time the council has overridden the mayor, following a decision in July to reject his veto of a housing voucher program, according to the New York Times.

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The UK has sent satellite photographs of North Korean cargo shipments to Russia to a panel of UN experts as evidence in an official investigation into arms deals in violation of international sanctions.

North Korea has been accused of providing ballistic missiles and hundreds of thousands of artillery shells to Russia for its war in Ukraine since Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's President Kim Jong-un met in September in the far east of Russia.

UK Sends UN Cargo Photographs of North Korean Shipments

According to The Guardian, photos from the UK Defense Ministry include Russian ships unloading supplies at North Korea's Najin port. The three vessels, the Maia, Angara, and Maria, headed to Russian ports in the Far East.

The images were captured between September and December. The UK Defense Ministry said it could not identify what was inside the containers.

The US government has sanctioned all three ships for their ties to the Russian Defense Ministry.

A panel of UN experts focusing on North Korean weapons proliferation received the report. The panel is expected to release its final report on arms shipments between North Korea and Russia next month.

"Russia's use of North Korean weapons in Ukraine is a violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions," a UN diplomat said. "It undermines international efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and exposes just how desperate Russia has become in its failed invasion. This and other evidence submitted to the UN sanctions committee should trigger a full investigation into Russia and DPRK's [North Korea's] flagrant breaking of international sanctions."

The deliveries have been attributed to military operations against Ukraine in December and January that killed dozens of people and injured hundreds.

Kharkiv prosecutors suspected North Korean-made Iskander missile fragments had been brought to Kyiv for examination. They said the missiles had subtle differences, with hand-written serial numbers, a distinct nozzle exhaust cone, and different welding.

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UN Condemns Russia's Use of North Korean Weapons Against Ukraine

UN delegates denounced Russia's use of North Korean weapons in Ukraine during a meeting of the Security Council on January 10, following reports that Russian forces had fired ballistic missiles into Ukraine.

A statement released by eight members of the Security Council, including the UK and US, said that the heinous attacks were carried out, in part, using ballistic missiles and launchers procured from North Korea.

Ukrainian military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said that North Korea is now Russia's largest arms supplier.

The White House's senior director for arms control, Pranay Vaddi, described this week's military cooperation between Russia and North Korea as unprecedented. He warned that Russian military assistance to North Korea could undermine the US nuclear deterrence policy in South Korea and Japan.

Related Article: Vladimir Putin To Visit Kim Jong Un as Russia, North Korea Plan To Form 'New World Order' To Ramp Up United Front Against US


Multiple Chinese spy balloons were spotted, again, over Taiwan's airspace. These aircraft sightings happened just days after the self-governed island nation conducted its controversial presidential election.

The Taiwanese government announced the detection of six Chinese spy balloons on Monday, Jan. 22, saying that they flew through the island's airspace just north of it.

Another alarming thing about this is that authorities also spotted numerous Chinese navy ships, as well as warplanes in the same area. Here are other details shared by Taiwan's Defense Ministry.

Multiple Chinese Spy Balloons Spotted Over Taiwan's Airspace

The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan said that the six Chinese balloons were included on a list of Chinese PLA (People's Liberation Army) activities across the airspace and waters around Taiwan.

One of them passed near Pingtung. Meanwhile, the remaining Chinese aircraft flew to the location where Taiwan has an important naval base; north of the port of Keelung, as reported by ABC News.

As of writing, Taiwan's defense ministry hasn't confirmed if these balloons are really used for explicit military activities. However, experts claimed that they could be part of China's harassment campaign against the small island nation.

Between Jan. 21 and Jan. 22, Taiwanese defense officials said that they detected four Chinese navy ships, as well as four warplanes. They monitored these vessels and aircraft from China using their navy vessels, combat aircraft, and land-based missile systems.

This just shows that Chinese balloon sightings are increasing further, especially since Taiwan conducted its presidential election, which was opposed by Beijing.

During the last months of 2023, Taiwan also saw numerous Chinese spy balloon sightings. Because of this, Taipei said that it will start handling these aircraft based on their threat levels.

Read Also: Chinese Spy Balloon Allegedly Used US Internet Provider; Intelligence Officials Share New Details

Why China Sends Surveillance Balloons Over Taiwan

According to Newsweek's recent report, the Chinese use these controversial high-altitude balloons and airships for intelligence-gathering activities.

Taiwan's defense ministry said that these balloons are being used for high-altitude scientific research or meteorological observations.

But, Taipei said these during its initial assessment. Since China was continuously sending its high-altitude balloons before the presidential election, many Taiwanese officials believed they could be planning to disrupt the political event.

Ever since these sightings, Taiwan has been more vigilant whenever it spots Chinese spy balloons flying over its waters and airspace.

Related Article: Chinese Spy Balloon Appears in Taiwan Strait, Defense Ministry Claims-Is China Trying To Disturb Presidential Election?
Court documents filed on Sunday reveal that Terraform Labs, the entity responsible for the stablecoin TerraUSD, has initiated the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process in the United States.

The Singapore-registered company, led by Do Kwon, explained in an official statement that it strategically opted to file in the Delaware bankruptcy court in order to sustain its operations while addressing ongoing legal challenges. Chapter 11 bankruptcy is commonly known as "reorganization" bankruptcy.

Terraform Labs Faces Bankruptcy Amidst Cryptocurrency Fraud Investigation

The bankruptcy reports came after the investigation of Terraform Labs for alleged cryptocurrency fraud.

Kwon and Terraform Labs were implicated in the downfall of its blockchain network TerraUSD and Terra's blockchain native token Luna crypto coins, leading to disturbances in the worldwide crypto markets in 2022. The failure of TerraUSD to uphold its $1 peg in May 2022 resulted in losses exceeding $40 billion for both cryptocurrencies.

Specifically, the collapse of TerraUSD and Luna had a cascading impact on various cryptocurrency firms, including well-known ones such as Singapore lender Hodlnaut, lender Celsius Network, hedge fund Three Arrows Capital, and brokerage Voyager Digital, according to The Strait Times.

Due to this, Kwon has been charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for allegedly defrauding investors of billions of dollars last year.

"We allege that Terraform and Do Kwon failed to provide the public with full, fair, and truthful disclosure as required for a host of crypto asset securities, most notably for Luna and TerraUSD," Gary Gensler, US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chairman, said in a statement dated February 16, 2023.

In April of last year, Shin, co-founder of Terraform Labs, was also reportedly charged in South Korea in relation to the collapse of TerraUSD and Luna crypto coins last year.

In a recent development, a federal judge has delayed the trial brought by the SEC against the company and its co-founder. This postponement is to facilitate the extradition of Kwon to the U.S. from Montenegro, where he fled and was arrested after South Korea issued an arrest warrant for him in late 2022.

Read Also: Crypto Fugitive, Terraform Labs Founder Do Kwon Sentenced for Forging Travel Documents

Terraform Labs Pledges Commitment to Stakeholders Amid Legal Challenges

Terraform Labs, in the midst of its Chapter 11 case, assured it would fulfill all financial obligations to employees and vendors without the need for additional financing.

The company, as expressed by CEO Chris Amani, strives to confront legal challenges while staying dedicated to its collective goals.

"The Terra community and ecosystem have shown unprecedented resilience in the face of adversity," Amani said. "[A]nd this action is necessary to allow us to continue working towards our collective goals while resolving the legal challenges that remain outstanding."

In his statement, Amani conveyed optimism, highlighting the ecosystem's ability to overcome significant challenges and thrive after de-pegging. He expressed anticipation for a successful resolution of the ongoing legal proceedings.

The company's estimated assets and liabilities are both in the range of $100 million to $500 million.

According to court documents, Kwon is identified as the majority shareholder, holding 92% ownership of Terraform Labs. The remaining portion of the Singapore-incorporated company is owned by another South Korean entrepreneur, Daniel Shin.

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A Google engineer was arrested by law enforcement personnel after being found "spattered with blood" and believed to be responsible for the fatal beating of his wife inside a Santa Clara home.

The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Liren Chen who was arrested on Jan. 16 and has since been charged with murdering his wife, Xuanyi Yu. Police discovered the Google engineer kneeling while "staring blankly" into space near the body of his dead wife after a welfare call.

Google Engineer Arrested for Murder

Law enforcement personnel who arrived at the home located on Valley Way, Santa Clara, found the suspect with an "extremely swollen and purple arm." The Santa Clara District Attorney later said that his wife suffered "severe blunt force injuries to her head."

The incident started when Santa Clara police officers traveled to the home of the couple on Jan. 16, at around 11:00 a.m. after they received a welfare call. After arriving at the area, a friend of Chen said that he was "concerned" about the two and noted that the husband was "refusing to answer his phone or his door," as per the Daily Mail.

He also told law enforcement personnel that he could see Chen inside the house where he was "motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly." The district attorney's office later said that the body of the suspect's wife was found inside the bedroom that was directly behind where he knelt.

The office noted that when police arrested Chen, he had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands as well as scratches on his arm. Property records showed that the couple first bought the house in April last year for $2.05 million.

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Following the murder charges against the suspect, his arraignment was postponed to Jan. 22, as he is still being treated at a hospital. District Attorney Jeff Rosen highlighted the rise in 911 calls related to domestic violence.

He also urged those who are in abusive situations to seek help, emphasizing that support is available for them. Google later responded to the incident by expressing profound shock and sorrow, according to the Times of India.

Spattered With Blood

A spokesperson for the tech giant, Bailey Tomson, conveyed the company's condolences. He added that everyone at Google was shocked and deeply saddened by what had happened to Xuanyi.

Tomson said that their thoughts are with the victim's family and added that they will work to provide support to them and to co-workers who are processing the tragic news. The husband and wife involved in the incident were both graduates of Tsinghua University in China and the University of California San Diego.

The incident comes as Rosen said that domestic violence deaths have been on the decline across the country but argued that it does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence, said the San Francisco Chronicle.

Looking at their LinkedIn profiles, Chen was found to have been working on the YouTube shorts algorithm for Google while Xuanyi's page revealed that she was a software engineer.



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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a recommendation late Sunday night (January 21) to all airlines operating Boeing 737-900ER jets to inspect the door plugs of the planes in question to ensure they were properly secured.

The agency's "Safety Alert for Operators" disclosed that some airlines have conducted additional inspections on the 37-900ER mid-exit door plugs and "have noted findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections."

Reuters reported that the advisory was made after several operators reported unspecified issues with bolts upon inspections in the aftermath of an incident where the door plug of a brand new Alaska Airlines MAX 9 jet caused a mid-air blowout.

The incident eventually forced the FAA to recommend grounding 171 Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes, which remained in effect as of Sunday until it "is satisfied they are safe to return to service."

Door Plug Issues Plague MAX 9 Fleet

While the 737-900ER was not part of the MAX fleet, it has the same optional door plug design that allowed for the addition of an extra emergency exit door when carriers opt to install more seats.

The FAA's recommendation told air carriers to perform key portions of a fuselage plug assembly maintenance procedure related to the four bolts used to secure the door plug to the airframe "as soon as possible."

In an email obtained by Reuters, a Boeing spokesperson said that they "fully support the FAA and [its] customers in this action."

The company delivered the 737-900ER to its customers from 2017 to 2019. Among US carriers, United Airlines is the only other operator of the specific 737 variant, and it said that they found loose parts on multiple grounded MAX 9 aircraft during preliminary checks, prompting them to cancel thousands of flights this month.

United added that it was extending the cancellation of its MAX 9 flights until January 26. Alaska, whose MAX 9 planes account for 20% of its fleet, previously canceled all of its flights through Sunday but has not immediately provided comment on how long it planned to extend cancellations.

The Wall Street Journal also reported that the parts that failed in Alaska's MAX 9 were made in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Indonesian carrier Lion Air, which also operated MAX 9 planes, said that it was resuming the fleet's flights after its own checks.

Read Also: Boeing CEO Admits Mistake Before Alaska Airlines Mid-Flight Blowout Incident

United, Alaska to Also Inspect 900ERs

On the other hand, the Boeing 737-900ER has logged over 11 million hours of flight time and 3.9 million flight cycles without any issues with door plugs, the FAA added.

However, both United and Alaska said that they have already begun inspections of the door plugs on their 737-900ER fleets to see if they were also affected by the door plug issue.

United said that the inspections of their 136 737-900ER planes were "to be completed in the next few days" without disruption to their customers. As for Alaska, their inspections began several days ago, and that it has had no findings to date, but they expected to "complete the remainder of [its] -900ER fleet without disruption to our operations."

Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines also said that it "elected to take proactive measures" to inspect its own 737-900ER fleet and does not anticipate any operational impacts.

Related Article: Alaska Airlines, United Airlines Discover Unsecured Parts on Grounded Boeing 737 Max Aircraft: Report
Washington state legislators are anticipated Monday to review a proposal that seeks to ban the practice of hog-tying suspects by law enforcement.

This comes almost four years after the death of Manuel Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man, who was killed while restrained face down with his hands and feet cuffed together.

Bill on Prohibiting The Use of Hog-Tying After Manuel Ellis' Death

House Bill 2414, aimed at prohibiting the use of hog-tying in use-of-force policies, has progressed through different stages in the 2024 regular session. The bill was prefiled on January 5, and it had its first reading on January 8 before being referred to the Law & Justice committee.

A public hearing in the Senate Committee on Law & Justice is scheduled for January 22, followed by an executive session on January 25.

Democratic Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, a bill sponsor, highlighted her goal of preventing others from experiencing the "dehumanization" Ellis faced before his death.

"How do we move through the need for folks to enforce the laws, but do it in a way where they're treating people the way we expect, which is as human beings?" Trudeau said.

The bill was prompted by the tragic death of Ellis in March 2020.

Ellis was walking home when approached by Tacoma police officers Matthew Collins and Christopher Burbank. The officers claimed Ellis tried to enter a stranger's car and attacked them when confronted in the city, located approximately 30 miles south of Seattle.

Witnesses observed the officers knocking Ellis to the ground, shocking and beating him. Subsequently, the officers applied a hobble restraint device to his legs, linking it to his handcuffs behind his back while he remained in a prone position, as reported by The Independent.

Following the application of the hobble, Ellis ceased moving, according to a probable cause statement from the Washington attorney general's office. A medical examiner determined that his death was a homicide resulting from oxygen deprivation.

Officers Collins and Burbank faced charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter, while Timothy Rankine faced a manslaughter charge.

The defense argued that Manuel Ellis's death resulted from a lethal amount of methamphetamine in his system and a preexisting heart condition, rather than the officers' actions.

In December last year, the jury ultimately acquitted all three on all counts

Read Also: 'Excited Delirium' Paper Withdrawn After Years of Controversy

What is the Hog-Tying Technique?

The practice of hog-tying has been a widely accepted means of restraining unruly behavior, but it is recommended to discontinue its use, according to the United States (US) Department of Justice-Office of Justice Programs.

The actual extent of deaths in custody due to positional asphyxia, commonly known as suffocation, from hog-tying, is unclear, as reported information is largely anecdotal, as per the department.

Since at least 1995, the U.S. Department of Justice has advised against the practice of mitigating the risk of deaths occurring in custody. However, despite facing bans in numerous cities and counties over persistent suffocation concerns, the restraint technique persists in use in other regions.

Related Article: Supreme Court Rejects Derek Chauvin's Appeal for New Trial in George Floyd Murder Case
U.S. President Joe Biden released a new campaign ad, which emphasizes the role of ex-POTUS Donald Trump in overturning Roe V Wade.

The advertisement titled "Forced" was posted by Joe Biden's official YouTube channel on Sunday, Jan. 21. Just 12 hours after the video was published, it already generated over 16,000 views.

The latest Forced campaign advertisement of the American leader aims to inform American voters about Donald Trump's direct ties to the ongoing abortion issues in the United States.

Joe Biden's New 'Forced' Campaign Ad Ties Trump To Abortion Rights Issues

The new Forced advertisement of the Biden-Harris tandem features Dr. Austin Dennard, an OB-GYN in Texas who is also a mother of three.

According to The Guardian's latest report, Dr. Dennard shared her "nightmare" experience after Roe v Wade was overturned, which happened with the help of Trump's nominees to the Supreme Court.

"I never thought that I would need an abortion for a planned pregnancy. But, I did," said Dr. Dennard via the official Biden-Harris Forced campaign ad.

"Two years ago, I became pregnant with a baby I desperately wanted. At a routine ultrasound, I learned that the fetus would have a fatal condition and there was absolutely no chance of survival," added the Texan mother.

However, she said that in Texas, mothers are "forced" to carry this kind of pregnancy. Austin added that this issue is happening because Donald Trump helped overturn Roe v Wade.

She further stated that abortion rights being taken away forced her to continue her pregnancy; putting her life in danger. Dr. Dennard said that this is also the worst nightmare of every woman in the U.S.

"We need leaders that will protect our rights and not take them away. And that's Joe Biden and Kamala Harris," stated Dr. Dennard.

Read Also: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Drops Out of 2024 Presidential Race, Endorses Donald Trump

What Americans Say About Biden's 'Forced' Campaign Ad

In the comment section of the Forced campaign ad, many Americans thanked Joe Biden for reminding them how Donald Trump helped overturn Roe v Wade, leading to abortion rights issues.

They said that Americans need more awareness regarding the direct involvement of the former POTUS in the removal of abortion rights.

After watching the advertisement, other voters said that Trump really wants to have presidential immunity for personal gains.

Meanwhile, others said that they are definitely going to vote for Joe Biden in the upcoming U.S. presidential election this 2024.

Related Article: Donald Trump Says Nikki Haley Unlikely to Be His Vice President: 'She's Not Smart Enough'
Republican Senator Tim Scott (SC)a former GOP presidential candidate who recently conceded his bid to support former president Donald Trumpsuccessfully proposed to his girlfriend, Mindy Noce, on Saturday, Jan. 20 at a beach in Kiawah Island in South Carolina.

The senator, who is one of the top picks to run as Trump's vice-president, said that he struggled to ask the question due to him being an "introvert."

"Mindy, thank you for making me the luckiest man in the world," he tweeted, posting photos of him and Noce during the event.

He previously told the Washington Post that he intended to marry someone who agreed with his religious values.

"I've been very patient and prayerful, and I'm really excited and somewhat nervous, and I couldn't be more thankful for having found a soul mate and someone who shares a lot of the same interests, passions, and goals that I do," he added.

Scott as Trump's VP

Meanwhile, there are speculations that Scott - a lifelong bachelor and the sole Black Republican in the US Senate - could be a contender for Trump's vice-presidential ticket after endorsing him in New Hampshire on Friday (Jan. 19) after abandoning his own presidential bid late last year.

His support for Trump highlighted his distancing from former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, who appointed him to Capitol Hill during her time in office.

Read Also: Republican Senator Tim Scott Drops Out of 2024 Presidential Race

She said YES.



Mindy, thank you for making me the luckiest man in the world.



He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord - Proverbs 18:22 pic.twitter.com/FhspUVmSkY January 22, 2024

Who is Mindy Noce?

Noce is a Charleston-based interior designer and mother of three from her previous marriage. According to the Post, she was spotted at a church in Mt. Pleasant on Sunday (Jan. 21) wearing an engagement ring.

Scott, 58, added that he and Noce have been dating since last year after being introduced at church and bonding over Bible study. He also obtained the blessing of her parents about two weeks before Christmas.

Prior to his decision to do a sunset beach proposal, Scott initially wanted to do so after a pickleball game if not for a personal friend rejecting the idea.

Scott was previously engaged to another woman two decades ago but has since been called off. He said that he and Noce were planning to get married this year.

Related Article: Tim Scott Set To Endorse Former President Donald Trump
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin wrote an impromptu song about the "insane" traffic jams in Manila during the band's show in the Philippines. The congestion was so bad that even the country's president, who attended the show with his wife, used a helicopter to go to the group's first night of concert.

Chris Martin Says Traffic Is 'Completely Insane'

On the first night of Coldplay's concert on Friday, January 19, Chris Martin acknowledged the traffic jam in Manila and thanked the audience for "coming through the traffic."

"We've seen some traffic, but I think you have the number one in the world," he said, while Marcos stood in the audience, in viral videos on TikTok and X.

The following night, Martin devoted an impromptu song about it, singing, "Yesterday, we sang about Manila and the rain but we're not gonna sing that song again. There is only really one thing that remains. The traffic here in Manila is completely insane."

As compared to almost 400 cities in 55 nations, Manila's metro region had the slowest travel time in 2023, according to the TomTom Traffic Index.

Approximately 52% of Manila's roadways are crowded, and the average rush-hour speed is 19 kph (11 mph), based on the figures from the transportation-focused tech startup. A typical trip of merely 10 km (6.2 miles) takes around 25 minutes.

In the impromptu song, Martin even added: "If you wanna drive somewhere, then I'm warning you. A 2-mile drive will take a week or two. If you wanna get back home in time for your bath, well, I'd allow yourself about a year and a half."

See Also: PSG Defends Marcos's Use of Presidential Helicopter to Attend Coldplay Concert; Filipinos Not Having It

Marcos Criticized for Using Chopper to Concert

Based on social media videos, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife, and their entourage landed by helicopter at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, north of Manila, on Friday.

Apparently, some people on the internet were upset that Marcos failed to do anything to improve public transportation and wondered why he was using taxpayer money to go to a concert.

Millions of Filipinos have long struggled with the problem of urban transportation since they must endure the everyday reality of waiting for hours in traffic, particularly in the capital, where private cars, jeepneys, taxis, buses, and tricycles vie for road space.

On the other hand, private helicopters or light planes are typical modes of transportation for politicians, corporate executives, and their families.

The commander of Marcos' security team issued a statement on Saturday, January 20, defending his method of transportation, stating that "unforeseen traffic complications" threatened the president's safety in the face of widespread internet criticism.

See Also: Philippines: PCSO Ridiculed by Filipinos After Posting Lottery Winner's Photo-Here's Why
Security forces gun down 3 armed rebels in India

Xinhua) 10:31, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Microsoft's system has been breached by Russian hackers. This was confirmed by the software giant on Friday, Jan. 19, saying that they detected a nation-state attack.

The American tech firm announced that Russian hackers compromised its corporate systems on Jan. 12. Microsoft promised that it already activated its response process.

This means that Microsoft is investigating the security breach, disrupting the cybersecurity attack, mitigating the breach, and preventing hackers from having further access.

Russian Hackers Breach Microsoft's Email System

According to Fortune's latest report, Microsoft identified the hackers as members of the highly-skilled Russian hacking group called Midnight Blizzard.

These malicious actors are also known as Nobelium, the Russian state-sponsored actor behind the SolarWinds security breach.

"As part of our ongoing commitment to responsible transparency as recently affirmed in our Secure Future Initiative (SFI), we are sharing this update," said Microsoft via its official blog post.

Unfortunately, the cybersecurity breach happened in late November 2023. This means that it has been more than a month before Microsoft detected the malicious campaign against its corporate email system.

The software giant confirmed that Russian hackers were able to access the accounts of its leadership team members. Email accounts of cybersecurity employees and legal team staff were also breached.

But, Microsoft claimed that only a "very small percentage" of corporate accounts were compromised. Some emails and attached documents were stolen as well.

Microsoft's spokesperson said that they haven't identified the exact numbers of affected senior leadership email accounts.

"We are in the process of notifying employees whose email was accessed," said the giant tech firm.

The software developer stated that they already removed the hackers' access from compromised accounts around Jan. 13.

Read Also: Amazon Security Breach Adds New Mailing Addresses to AccountsIs It Hackers or Just System Bug?

How Russian Hackers Breach Microsoft Corporate System

The American tech firm clarified that the latest corporate system breach was not a result of a service/product vulnerability. Instead, Russian threat actors used a password spray attack.

This allowed them to compromise a legacy non-production test tenant account, which gave them a foothold. After that, they used the account's permissions to access corporate email accounts.

As of writing, Microsoft said that they haven't found any evidence proving that these Russian hackers had access to customer environments, source code, AI systems, and production systems.

The software giant added that if ever it found evidence, it would immediately notify consumers.

Related Article: Ardent Health Services Breach Affects 30 Hospitals in Six US States-Forcing Patients to Find Other Medical Facilities
TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - The Imperial Household Agency announced that Princess Aiko, the eldest daughter of Emperor and Empress, will start working as a staff member at the Japanese Red Cross Society from April.

Princess Aiko was born in 2001. When she was younger, Emperor Naruhito, then the Crown Prince, affectionately referred to her as "Aiko-chan" and emphasized the importance of a father's role in parenting. He was involved in her upbringing, often reading her picture books.

Princess Aiko, always in the public eye since her early years, entered kindergarten holding her father's hand, visibly nervous. By the time she entered elementary school two years later, she had grown more confident, often seen smiling. On her 9th birthday, she was observed practicing calligraphy with a serious expression.

From a young age, Princess Aiko showed interest in Japanese history and literature. Emperor Naruhito, recalling his time as Crown Prince, expressed surprise at the difficulty of her studies. He himself graduated from Gakushuin University's Faculty of Letters and then studied at the University of Oxford for two years. Empress Masako also graduated from Harvard University in the United States, joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and later studied at the University of Oxford.

Princess Aiko attended Gakushuin from kindergarten through university, demonstrating a keen interest not only in Japanese literature but in a broad range of subjects.

Her curiosity extended to natural sciences too. In a conversation with Emperor Naruhito, she shared her independent research on seashells and dragonflies. When asked by Empress Masako about a specific dragonfly, Princess Aiko correctly identified it as ", akiakane."

In 2020, Princess Aiko enrolled in the Faculty of Letters at Gakushuin University, expressing her interest in classical literature like "The Tale of Genji."

At this year's New Year's Poetry Reading, Princess Aiko recited a Waka poem reflecting her deep connection to the art form:

"Overcoming years of hardship, the words of Waka resonate with me."

Her profound appreciation for Waka is evident. Last month, she submitted her graduation thesis on medieval Waka poetry and is soon to graduate from university.

Source: ANN
SAPPORO, Jan 23 (News On Japan) - A Hokkaido man who told police he had killed two people, has been arrested for the attempted murder of his brother-in-law, and faces murder charges for the slaying of his sister.

Hajime Takahashi (54), from Nishi Ward, Sapporo, was arrested at around 4:30 PM on Sunday in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, where his sister's younger brother was found stabbed with a knife at his home and transported to the hospital, where he remains in a stable condition. A knife, believed to have been used in the stabbing, was found at the residence.

Based on Takahashi's confession to having killed his sister, police were led to an apartment in Yoichi where a woman in her 60s was found collapsed in an apartment. She was later confirmed dead. Takahashi stated that he had traveled from Yoichi to Iwamizawa, about 100 kilometers away, in a rental car.

Police on Monday afternoon confirmed the identity of the deceased woman as his sister, Kayoko.

Takahashi told police he had intending to kill both individuals.

Source: NTV NEWS
After serving as the director of finance for 8 years, Neil Broders is now the executive director at Behavioral Health Specialists.

For close to 30 years, Behavioral Health Specialists has been providing innovative behavioral health services, outpatient mental health and substance abuse counseling and short-term residential and detox services in Norfolk and Columbus. And it provides community support in foster care.

Broders said what motivated him to become the executive director was the desire to lead an agency to help its employees continue to dedicate themselves in meeting with clients and being a resource for the community, in addition to making sure they are able to provide care to the community.

"I am excited about leading an agency that has been providing quality professional care to Northeast Nebraska over the last 30 years," Broders said. "It is an honor, and I am excited for the opportunity to continue our mission of being committed to the excellence and the provision of comprehensive behavioral health care and family services.

"Our 100 employees help set the standard of excellence in the development and delivery of innovative behavioral health and addiction services. At BHS, we dedicate ourselves to meeting the needs of those we serve. I plan on being with BHS and kind of leading us into the future."

Broders began the role of executive director earlier this month. He brings in more than 13 years of experience in leadership, strategic planning and project administration. Before starting with Behavioral Health Specialists in 2015 as finance director, he was a tax senior associate with KPMG in Lincoln for five years.

He brings experience in financial management, strategic planning, talent management and continuous improvement to the role of executive director.

Broders is a longtime resident of Norfolk and a graduate of Norfolk Catholic High School, and he earned his master's degree in professional accountancy at the University of Nebraska.

He is also a member of numerous local organizations, including the Philanthropy Council. The Norfolk native participates in various fundraisers for Sacred Heart Parish.

"The board is very excited for the new leadership. He has been there for a number of years, and he understands the culture there and also understands the breadth of services that Behavioral Health Specialists offers," board president Jeffrey Steffen said. "I think it is beyond what any other single agency can offer in town, and we are just excited that he is our leader and leading us into a time where we can possibly even offer more services for people who are struggling with life."
HARTINGTON  The man and woman charged with murder in connection to the killings of four Laurel residents in August 2022 are expected to soon file a motion for a change of venue.

The motion, if granted, would mean that Jason Jones, 43, and Carrie Jones, 44, both of Laurel, would stand trial in front of separate juries outside of Cedar County.

Todd Lancaster, the attorney for Jason Jones, said on Monday that hed soon be filing a series of motions, including a request for a venue change, as well as the admissibility of certain evidence at trial.

Jason Jones is charged with four counts of first-degree murder, four counts of use of a firearm to commit a felony and two counts of first-degree arson.

A change of venue is mandated when a defendant cannot receive a fair and impartial trial in the county where the offense was committed, according to state statute.

The Nebraska Supreme Court has determined that jurors claims of impartiality are deemed unreliable when its shown that there has been pervasive pretrial publicity that is sufficiently inflammatory, thus creating a presumption of prejudice in a community.

Judges must consider several factors in determining whether a change of venue is warranted, including the nature of the publicity, the degree to which the publicity has circulated throughout the community and the degree to which the venue could be changed.

Lancaster said he needed some time to round up news articles in support of his change of venue motion, which he said hed get on file within a couple of weeks. He added that hes also reviewing voluminous amounts of discovery.

A hearing on Lancasters coming motions is scheduled for Thursday, March 28. Jason Jones intends to waive his appearance at that hearing, just as he did on Monday.

Doug Stratton, one of the two attorneys representing Carrie Jones, said hes planning to file motions similar to the ones Lancaster intends to make.

Carrie Jones is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with evidence and being an accessory to murder.

Her next hearing also was scheduled for March 28, as attorneys said both Jones cases could be held at the same time since evidence presented will be similar.

So we're not doing things twice, we will piggyback on (Jason Jones) hearings as well, Stratton said. And that saves the court some time, and obviously, all the parties that are involved 

District Judge Bryan Meismer gave the defense attorneys 21 days to get any motions on file.

Prosecutors are pursuing the death penalty against Jason Jones, having filed a notice of aggravators last January in the deaths of Gene Twiford, 86, and his wife, Janet Twiford, 85; their daughter, Dana Twiford, 55; and Michele Ebeling, 53, in the early-morning hours of Aug. 4, 2022.

Days after the state filed its notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Jason Jones, Lancaster filed a motion to quash the notice of aggravators, arguing that the death penalty is unconstitutional and that the states decision regarding the defendants against whom it would seek a death sentence is arbitrary and capricious.

Meismer denied Lancasters motion, ruling that no set of circumstances exists under which death penalty statutes would be invalid or that the law is unconstitutional in all of its applications of the death penalty.

Jason Jones is accused of fatally shooting the Twifords at their home at 503 Elm St. in Laurel and Ebeling at her home, 209 Elm St. He allegedly set fire to the two homes after killing the victims.

He was arrested at his home, located across the street from Ebeling's, by the Nebraska State Patrols SWAT team the day following the slayings after investigators found evidence at both crime scenes allegedly linking him to the killings.

He was found with severe burns and was treated for 12 weeks at a Lincoln hospital before being discharged and taken to the Nebraska Department of Corrections Reception and Treatment Center in Lincoln, where he is being held without bail.

Prosecutors allege that Carrie Jones pushed her husband to do something about Gene Twiford, whom Carrie Jones said would drive by the Jones couples house and make sexually-charged comments toward her over a three-year period.

According to Nebraska State Patrol investigators, Carrie Jones didnt tell her husband to kill Gene Twiford, but she said if he didnt, then she would.

She also is accused of harboring her husband after the killings and disposing of the clothes he was wearing at the time.

Carrie Jones has been housed at the Antelope County Jail on $1 million bail since her arrest in December 2022.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  First responders who arrived at the scene of a Russian missile attack on homes in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa on Friday were themselves struck by a second missile, officials said. A paramedic and an emergency service worker were among the 14 people killed.
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Whether you planned it originally or held off because of dry conditions in the fall, the time for spring alfalfa planting is just around the corner. Selecting the right seed is crucial, and two traits to consider are fall dormancy and winter survival. These traits often are treated the same 
Relations between Burundi and Rwanda have taken another downturn after the former announced on Thursday (18 January) that it had suspended diplomatic ties with its neighbor and unilaterally closed its border.

The move came last week, after the Burundi government accused Rwanda of supporting a Burundian rebel group known as RED-Tabara that is based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an accusation that Kigali denies. Bilateral relations between Burundi and Rwanda have ranged from being frosty for years to being quite friendly, being regularly shaped by the relations between Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups. The border between the two nations, which reopened two years ago, has been closed again amid renewed tension, with some analysts now predicting the spat is bound to further escalate.

RED-Tabara has been attacking Burundi whose government designates the rebels as terrorists. The rebel group claimed responsibility for the 22 December attack on a commune near Bujumbura, Burundis economic capital, that reportedly claimed lives of scores of civilians, including women and children. The Rwandan government responded by stating that Burundis decision was unfortunate and violated the East African Communitys (EAC) principles of regional cooperation. According to Phil Clark, a professor of international politics at SOAS University of London, the fact that [the border] has been closed again shows that there is an enormous amount of bad blood between the two governments.
Relations between Algiers and Bamako are still strained over Algerias continuous unfriendly acts and blatant interference in Malis internal affairs.

Diplomatic row between the two countries heightens as Malian authorities exposed once again Algeria dirty tricks and lies at the summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) held over the weekend in Ugandas capital, Kampala.

The Malian authorities accuse the ruling junta in Algiers of hitting below the belt and using deceptive tactics to impose its own political agenda that undermines Malis sovereignty.

In its final communique, the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) included a paragraph on the Malian crisis, exacerbating tension between the two neighboring countries.

During the foreign affairs ministers meeting preceding the Kampala summit, the Algerian delegation tried, without Malis knowledge, to impose a paragraph in the final declaration, reaffirming NAMs support for the 2015 Algiers Agreement signed by the various Malian parties to the conflict.

Malian foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop strongly opposed the Algerian attempt to interfere again in Malian affairs, urging NAM countries to stop referring to the Algiers Agreement in their documents as this agreement has been definitively buried by the Malian authorities.

The Malian government reported the clash with the Algerians in a comment posted on twitter account of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso).

Bamako categorically rejected a text proposed by Algeria at the non-aligned summit in Kampala, Uganda. This text seeks to get support for the Algiers peace agreement, signed in 2015 between the Malian government and armed groups, said the Malian government in its tweet.

In his speech to the NAM summit, the personal representative of Assimi Goita, head of Malis transitional government, Colonel Abdoulaye Maiga, Minister of State denounced Algeria a serious breach of diplomatic practice.

Addressing the summiteers, the Malian official decried Algerias meddling in Malis domestic and demanded the pure and simple withdrawal of any reference to the 2015 Algiers Agreement in the draft final document of the summit.

These firm stands were voiced in presence of Heads of State and government of NAM countries, including Nadir Larbaoui, Algerian Prime minister and Ahmed Attaf, head of Algerian diplomacy, who were embarrassed by the Malian remarks.

The new diplomatic showdown between Algiers and its southern neighbor, confirms the rift deepening between Algeria and Sahel countries which no longer trust a country that supports separatism and fuels divisions.
A group of relatives of Israelis still being held captive by Hamas stormed a parliamentary committee in Jerusalem on Monday (Jan. 22) to demand that the lawmakers do more to free their loved ones.

About 20 people attempted to hijack the proceedings, signaling growing domestic dissent from Israelis regarding the war in Gaza, Reuters reported.

Demonstrators have also been camping outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence and the Knesset building, Israel's parliament, with some of them demanding a unilateral end to the war or an election that might topple Netanyahu's hard-right government.

Read Also: Netanyahu Rejects Proposal To End War With Hamas Despite US Effort for Two-State Solution

Israelis Demand Netanyahu to Release Hostages

It was previously reported that Netanyahu rejected the proposal to end its war against Hamas, even with Washington's stance of promoting a two-state solution.

In response, Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri said that there would be "no chance" that the remaining hostages would be returned.

Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum demanded that Netanyahu should "clearly state that [the country would] not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped in the October debacle."

"If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public," the group said in a statement.

Related Article: Israel War-Ending Resolution Rejection Aftermath: Hamas Says No Chance of Hostages Returning
Moroccos largest mining company Managem plans to increase its revenue by 50% from 9 billion dirhams currently, as it plans to increase gold and copper production starting from 2025, the company CEO Imad Toumi said.

The company has resumed gold production in Sudan which represents 15% of its revenue, Toumi told Medias24.

He said the situation was calm in the north of the country where a civil war has led last year to production disruptions.

Managem also plans to start production in Senegal in 2025 following a total investment of 3.5 billion dirhams, he said.

In Morocco, Managem was investing about 4 billion dirhams in its copper mine in Tizert which will help it double its copper production, he said.

The company is also expecting cobalt prices to increase thanks to a growing demand on gigafactories, he said.

These projects would require from 7 to 8 billion dirhams in investments over 2024-2025 period, Toumi said, recalling that shareholders have agreed to raise capital by 3 billion dirhams.
Benin and Sri Lanka have sealed a deal to scrap visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports from both countries as part of efforts to bolster ties in many areas including politics, economy, culture and tourism.

Shegun Adjadi and Ali Sabry respectively top diplomats from Benin and the Asian country inked the deal.

The deal came following bilateral conversation between Benins Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata and Sri Lankas President, on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Summit in Uganda (January 19 to 20), media reports, citing the LinkedIn page of the Adjadis department, said.

The diplomatic agreement will allow holders of diplomatic passports of both countries to pay 30-day visits visa-free. Talata and Ranil Wickremesinghe discussed ways to deepen ties in areas including politics, economy, culture and tourism, 24 Heures Au Benin reports citing the Foreign ministry.

The two countries established diplomatic ties in 2012.
Ennahdha, Tunisias largest political party, rubbished Sunday January 21 rumors about the death of its leader Rached Ghannouchi in prison where he is serving a 10-month sentence on multiple charges.

In a communique, the party said the 82-year-old man is safe and sound, and is resisting in his cell.

The party also indicated that its leader urged enemies or opponents not to exploit the symbolism of the movements president, his personal situation, and conditions for abject political ends to conceal a political failure and divert attention from national affairs.

The movement also warned against the reasons behind the propagation of such rumors, and calls on the authorities in place to treat the matter with all due seriousness, and not to take the finalities lightly.

Ghannouchi, in prison since April 2023, over several charges, has been also condemned to one-year in prison for promoting terrorism.

The union of Tunisian security forces sued the political leader for promoting terrorism during the burial of Farhat Laabar, Member of Choura Council and former Al Jazeera Tunisia Bureau Chief.

The political figure was also condemned to one-year in prison in a separate case dating back to February 2022.
The Supreme Court of Seychelles has charged 8 Iranians, the crew of a vessel, for the importation of illicit drugs to the African archipelago.

The eight men onboard a vessel known as Abdullahi, were intercepted by the Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG) on December 28, 2023, northeast of Denis Island, which lies 60 kilometers north of the main island of Mahe, where they were found without a flag, State-run news agency SNA reported.

The sea-farers reportedly upon seeing the SCGs Zoroaster vessel attempted to get rid of the drugs by throwing them at sea, before eventually being stopped and transported to the SCG base at Ile Perseverance.

The coastguards discovered a total of 187.92 kilograms of illicit drugs, which included 150.95 kilograms of hashish, 22.15 kilograms of heroin, 12.30 kilograms of cannabis, and 2.55 kilograms of methamphetamine.

The security forces also seized GPS equipment, a satellite phone and three mobile phones.

The cargo was heading to Kenya. The men face life in prison. Seychelles hands life in prison sentences for such illicit drugs.
In the fall of 2022, I covered the National Conservatism Conference, a soiree in Miami drawing Republican activists, writers, activists, and elected officials. The conference made two things vividly clear. First was the degree to which post-liberalism  the idea that traditional democracy was failing, and Republicans must use coercive government power to gain and hold power  had moved from the fringes to the mainstream of the conservative movement. The second was that the most ardently post-liberal conservative activists, the ones who believed the Deep State had sabotaged Donald Trump and openly envied Hungarys strongman Viktor Orban, had grown convinced Ron DeSantis was their candidate.

The Florida governor spoke to a rapturous audience at the convention. Even though his landslide reelection victory still lay ahead of him, you could see the gears of elite influence turning. The energies revealed and unleashed by Trump were now consolidating behind a new movement, and at that moment it all seemed to be lining up behind DeSantis.

We know now, and have known for quite some time, that the flesh-and-blood DeSantis could not live up to the expectations heaped upon him. He was, both figuratively and literally, too small  making inept tactical decisions, failing at attempts to do things like smile, laugh, and banter with regular people, and probably doomed from the outset by the durability of the Trump personality cult. He dropped out of the race on Sunday.

But as pathetic and ridiculous and small as the procession of spousal handshakes, custom-built lift boots, awkward laughs, spoonless puddings may have been, the DeSantis campaign was not unimportant. It represented something that will have lasting significance: the ratification of Trumpism by the conservative movement and the Republican Party.

Who is permitted in the coalition is a vital question for any political body, especially one with dangerous extremists. On the American right, that question has hung in the balance since Trump came on the scene. DeSantiss campaign put it finally to rest.

It is difficult to overestimate the panic and existential dread Trumps rise set off within the GOP elite. It was not merely Trumps personality or ideological unreliability that terrorized Republican politicians and thought leaders. The National Reviews famous Against Trump issue, in which a collection of paragons of conservatism dismissed Trump as a con man and read him out of the movement, embodied what was at the time a wall of opposition.

The conservative movements initial rejection of Trump set off what was, internally, a catastrophic series of events. The movement depended on the assumption that its existing organizations spoke for the base, yet Trump had mobilized a vast new army of followers who were transparently at odds with the priorities of their self-appointed leaders. Nearly every major established conservative organ soon found its fundraising, audience, donor subsidies, and political influence at risk. The old institutions of the right either disappeared (the Weekly Standard ceased publication after its pro-Trump owner yanked funding) or fell into line. New institutions quickly rose up to take their place. Some of them (like the alt-right) flirted with, or plunged directly into, racism and antisemitism, or explored other previously forbidden ideas, like fantasies of civil war, explicit opposition to democracy, or conspiracy theories like Pizzagate and QAnon.

DeSantis grew up firmly rooted in traditional movement conservatism. His manifesto, Dreams From Our Founding Fathers, was an anti-government screed that argued President Obamas economic redistribution was a form of oppression. But DeSantis cleverly aligned himself with Trump in order to leap ahead of his competitors and win the governorship of Florida. And traditional conservatives saw him as the vehicle to unite the old factions of the right with the new ones.

The DeSantis project was to give up on waiting out Trump or trying to restore the old, Reaganite party, and instead consolidate the new one. The traditional conservatives gave up on trying to expel the grifters, paranoids, and antisemites from their ranks. Their goals had retreated to avoiding being expelled themselves. Some version of what DeSantis represents has the greatest odds of coaxing the party away from Trump and forging a new political synthesis that bears the unmistakable stamp of Trump while jettisoning his flaws, wrote National Review Editor-in-Chief Rich Lowry, There will be no Bourbon Restoration. The challenge to Trump will have to come from the Trump wing  at this point, more like the Trump fuselage, wing and landing gear  of the party.

DeSantis described his pitch as competent Trumpism. The deal was that traditional Republicans would get a reliable leader who focused on his job rather than binge-watching television and tweeting compulsively, while the Trumpists would secure a respected place in the movements constellation.

No enemies to the right became his campaigns prime objective. Outside observers boggled at DeSantiss relentless ideological posturing, but it reflected his core strategy of refusing to allow even a sliver of daylight to open up on the right. DeSantis refused to concede that Joe Biden had legitimately won the 2020 election (Its not for me to do), floated the idea FBI informants might have instigated the violence on January 6, and promised to consider pardons for convicted insurrectionists, and attacked Liz Cheney for holding hearings on the riots. (Cheney is totally off the rails with her nonsense. And I think shes not really a Republican in terms of what shes doing. We want people that are going to fight the left.) He campaigned for election-denying candidates like Kari Lake and Doug Mastriano that fellow Republicans avoided.

After Disney issued a statement criticizing one of his laws, DeSantis singled it out with a series of punitive regulatory and tax measures aimed at the companys Florida theme park. He then repeatedly cited this episode as an example of how he would intimidate other businesses from stepping out of line. It fit with DeSantiss theme that the problem with Trumps authoritarian ambition was that it was all talk. He said he was going to hold Hillary accountable, he complained, and he let her off the hook.

DeSantis found a COVID-vaccine skeptic, Joseph Ladapo, and made him Floridas surgeon general, then bashed Trump for Operation Warp Speed that sought to expedite the creation of the vaccines. He refused to condemn a cell of neo-Nazis operating out of Orlando, and lashed out at the press after his spokesperson suggested they were left-wing crisis actors. There was no right-wing sect so kooky that DeSantis wouldnt tiptoe gingerly for fear of offending.

The traditional Republicans backing DeSantis justified these gestures of outreach and respect to the lunatic fringe as shrewd and necessary. DeSantis had to win in a way that keeps Trumps most passionate supporters behind him come that November, wrote National Reviews Dan McLaughlin, calling it a test of character. Months later, he argued that trying to openly confront the nationalist/populist New Right would only strengthen the hand within the party of not only the nationalist/populist Right in general, but its most irresponsible elements in particular. Nikki Haleys attempt to win without those irresponsible elements, he said, would split the party and bring likely defeat. But DeSantis had correctly recognized that the populist faction is not going away, and the party cannot win or advance conservative policy without doing what American parties always do with significant factions: ensure them a place at the table.

This is a remarkably frank acknowledgement that DeSantiss strategy involved catering to and empowering right-wing factions that conservatives themselves considered dangerous, simply because the party could not win without them.

The irony of the strategy is that it ultimately undercut the main rationale of DeSantiss campaign: that he, unlike Trump, could win and accomplish the things Trump and his followers wanted. Eventually, polls showed DeSantis performing worse against Biden than Trump. His plan to court Trump supporters by reducing their differences to electability wound up forfeiting it.

What remained from the effort was a profound concession to Trumps revolutionary changes. The DeSantis campaign asked Trumps base to select a more competent leader, and in return conceded every moral and philosophical objection to Trump any Republican still clung to. The request was rebuffed, but the concessions were pocketed.
A recent poll breaks down the Republican electorate in the cleanest way. Asked if they believe Joe Biden won the 2020 election legitimately or only due to voter fraud, Nikki Haley has a 56-point margin among those who believe Biden legitimately won. But Trump has a staggering 74-point margin among those who dont.

Haleys problem is that only 42 percent of the voters believe Biden won in 2020. Worse, New Hampshire, chock-full of independent and socially moderate Republicans, is one of her better states. Nationally, some two-thirds of Republicans believe Trump genuinely won.

Incumbent presidents who are running for reelection almost always win the nomination. Why? Because they won last time, and parties like nominating winners. Defeated candidates who run for the nomination usually lose. Why? Because they lost last time, and parties hate nominating losers.

If Republicans wanted their party to nominate somebody other than Donald Trump  and most of the partys elected officials and donors did, at least secretly  then they needed their voters to understand that he lost the 2020 election. But doing so required hard steps they were never willing to take.

The outbreak of conscientiousness that swept through the Republican Party after January 6, 2021 gave way like a fever. One week after the insurrection, Axios reported that Republicans were divided whether to do it with one quick kill via impeachment, or let him slowly fade away. The framing of the question answered itself: Why take on the risk of fighting Trump and alienating his supporters when he would simply go away on his own?

Soon after, they decided the handful of Republicans who continued to oppose him were making themselves a bother, and either stood by or actively joined in efforts to remove them from their posts. National Review, the headquarters of anti-anti-Trump Republicanism, wrote exactly two months after the insurrection, so long as the House Republican caucus is unwilling or unable to break with Trump, and so long as Trump and his most-devoted supporters demand that they not change their mind and not change the subject, the caucuss leadership may as well reflect that.

The party was divided over Trumps election lies and coup attempt, but the divide had an asymmetric quality. One faction was obsessed with litigating its beliefs and repeating them endlessly, while the opposing faction only wanted the issue to go away. The outcome of this one-sided argument was inevitable. The percentage of Republicans who believed Trump has steadily risen.

The response by the anti-anti-Trump right has been to blame this state of affairs on Democrats. If their party remains loyal to Trump, it must be the hidden hand of the left at work. The Trump campaign, the press, and the Biden Democrats say the race is over. Mr. Biden wants Mr. Trump as the nominee because he believes Mr. Trump is the easiest to beat, sniffs the Wall Street Journal editorial page.

The leading theory on the anti-anti-Trump right holds that a series of prosecutors have brought charges against Trump in order to help him win the nomination. The point of the lawfare siege, which is the target of Trumps constant ire and is thus scoffed at by his fans as ineffective partisanship, was to get Trump nominated. In that sense, the siege has been effective beyond the Democrats wildest dreams, writes National Reviews Andrew McCarthy. His colleague Dan McLaughlin adds, the biggest factor in this primary has been the indictments, which produced an immediate & enduring poll shift towards Trump. Democrats got what they wanted.

There are two ironies about this conviction that Democrats prosecuted Trump in order to prop him up. The first is that criminal prosecution was originally proposed by Republicans as an alternative to impeachment. We have a criminal-justice system in this country. We have civil litigation, suggested Mitch McConnell in early 2021. The possibility of legal accountability for Trump was first an excuse for Republicans not to impeach, and now it is an excuse for why they decided to nominate him.

Second, if the Justice Department had declined to prosecute the former president, anti-anti-Trumpers would have an even better case. Just imagine the Justice Department concluded that, despite the criminal referrals brought to them by the J6 Committee, they found no legal case in Trumps coup attempt.

And then imagine that, even after Trump illegally kept highly classified documents, storing them in bathrooms and ballroom stages in an unsecured social club thats a spy magnet, and then brazenly lied and obstructed justice when asked to return the documents, the Justice Department let him get away with it. What would anti-anti-Trumpers have said about that? Theyd have said Bidens prosecutors decided not to lock up Trump because they want to run against him.

All these mental contortions on the right are an attempt to foist responsibility for Trumps hold on the Republican Party to external forces. The unavoidable reality is that if Republicans wanted a different nominee, they needed to convince their base the last nominee actually lost. Doing that would have created a fissure within the coalition and caused short-term political pain. So they stumbled on, hoping to paper over the division and keep the coalition intact at all costs. And here we are. They wont even begin the process of changing anything until they admit they did this to themselves.
Supporting Your Team: 6 Tips for Recovery and Adjustment After a Suspension Trauma Incident

When an incident happens, a quick response plan is the key to minimizing the downsides of suspension trauma.

There's always the risk of suspension trauma for those whose work involves heights and safety harnesses. When an incident happens, a quick response plan is the key to minimizing the downsides. Its a leaders responsibility to ensure the affected team member can return to their job promptly after being rescued. Learn some valuable tips on how to do so.

Signs of Suspension Trauma

Part of the rescue plan and the role of a safety manager is recognizing the signs of suspension trauma. Some of them are observable, making it apparent when a worker is having a problem. Then take appropriate action to address the issue. Look for these presyncope symptoms:

Light-headedness

Weakness

Fatigue

Dizziness

Excessive sweating

Nausea

Changes in vision

Numbness in the extremities

These symptoms can cause fainting in as little as seven minutes of being suspended. The longer they stay in the air, the higher the risk of serious injury. So an immediate response is critical.

Serious Consequences of Disrupted Circulation

The pressure of the safety harness on the legs can inhibit blood circulation in three major points: the legs, heart and brain. This disruption can lead to venous pooling, which occurs when the blood accumulates in the lower extremities and damages the muscle tissue, kidney and other vital organs. Moreover, the heart can go into shock and extreme anxiety, subsequently affecting the blood delivered to the brain.

Recovery Tips After an Incident

After the rescue, safety managers must provide physical and mental support so the worker can rapidly return to normal health. Here are some tips.

1. Convince Them to Seek Medical Attention

Suspension trauma cases should be treated like any other kind of traumatic injury. So seeking medical attention is a priority. Even if they were taken down promptly, encourage the worker to consult a health care professional if they refuse to see one. This way, they can be assessed for potential complications and receive immediate treatment.

2. Ensure They Follow the Physicians Medical Order
The U.S. Energy Industry has defied past norms where declines in drilling and completion activity would quickly result in lower production. Technology has turned that paradigm on its head in recent years. Extended reach laterals, optimizing well spacing, and increasing the Completion Intensity-frac stages per foot, upping sand and water concentrations per foot, have enabled this result. In the most recent Energy Information Agency-Drilling Productivity Report-DPR, the tally is in, once again we have a bumper crop in the U.S. oil patch.

One effect of this bounty has been to boost crude inventories as much as 35 mm barrels from seasonal lows, at a time when refineries are doing annual maintenance, and questions about U.S. and international economic growth are increasing. This has helped to put a drag on the pricing of the two key crude baskets, West Texas Intermediate-WTI, and Brent since November, of 2023, taking them down about $10 per barrel, respectively.

As you might expect, 2023 was a brutal year for the valuations of U.S. and Canadian upstream exploration and producing companies-E&Ps, with the stocks of many of 2022s standout performers, dropping 20, 30, and even 40% from their highs. Lower prices for WTI, particularly in Q-4 of last year have caused analysts to lower EPS and cash flow projections for these companies. Investors who quickly became used to enhanced shareholder returns in the form of spectacular dividends and stock buybacks, have deserted E&P stocks in droves.

As an example, one former high-flyer, Devon Energy, (NYSE:DVN) is trading in the low $40s, down from $75 in November of 2022, a nearly 47% decline, far out of proportion to the commodities that underpin its value. Of course, in that time, WTI and natural gas have fallen from the low $90s and nearly $8.00 to the low $70s and low $2s, respectively. Devon is still running a solid business and trades at a solid, but perhaps uninspiring free cash yield of ~9.0%. If you dig deeper, you will find their Return on Capital Employed-ROCE to be a very respectable ~24%. Right now, investors just dont care about any of that and have focused only on the lower Q-4 EPS forecast of $1.40 per share, a decline of about 9% from Q-3s EPS beat of $1.65. The stock has been pummeled ~18% in that time.

Drilling activity has been on the decline since the end of 2022, as companies have shifted capital allocations to maintaining production at current levels, paying down debt, and funneling cash to shareholders. Since peaking post-COVID at ~780 rigs in late 2022, by the middle of 2023, the U.S. rig count had declined to ~621, where it essentially remains today. Rigs drilling for gas have dropped at a proportionately higher rate than rigs targeting oil.

As previously noted, thus far, the decline in shale activity hasnt adversely impacted production, but obviously, this cant go on forever if output is to be maintained. A point Vicki Hollub, CEO of Occidental Petroleum, (NYSE:OXY) noted in recent sideline remarks at Davos this week. Hollub was quoted as saying, In the near term, the markets are not balanced; supply, demand is not balanced, adding that: "2025 and beyond is when the world is going to be short of oil".

The EIA graphic below puts Hollubs comments into context. The data isnt in for 2023 yet, but there is little doubt that when the EIA updates this graphic, proved reserves will take another year-over-year dip. With the declines in activity over the last couple of years, conceptually, this could be a big dip. One that could shock the market out of its current complacency regarding crude supplies.

Several years ago, I published an article on OilPrice suggesting that years of under-investment would lead to shortages in the future. If Hollub is correct, the future of tighter oil and gas supplies could be just around the corner.

Next steps

It is clear that E&P operators are not generating sufficient returns at current prices to do much more than maintain flat capital programs, improve their balance sheets, and pacify shareholders with share count reductions and juicy dividends. What will it take to get them to begin reinvesting in their businesses, and perhaps flatten the curve?

For some high-level indications, we can turn to the Kansas City Fed. The Kansas City Feds 10th District, which covers the states of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Wyoming; 43 counties in western Missouri; and 14 counties in northern New Mexico, conducts a quarterly survey of oil and gas operators.

In the survey, a group of oil and gas operators working in the district were queried on a couple of key points. The first question for oil and gas was, What oil and natural gas prices were needed on average for drilling to be profitable across the fields in which they are active? To run a profitable operation, the firms participating in the survey replied with a threshold price of $64 for WTI.

The next question in the survey asked, What prices were needed for a substantial increase in drilling to occur across the fields in which they are active? Here the respondents came back with $84, a price they didnt expect until 2025-6.

Those drilling for gas told the survey that Henry Hub pricing of $3.12 was to make an acceptable return, and for a substantial increase in activity, a price of $4.04 was needed. Operators were a little more dour in their outlook seeking a price they didnt really expect to occur in the next 5-years.

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Summing up

Oil and gas firms have adjusted their capital allocation plans to a maintenance mode for 2024, driven by prices that, in the case of oil, make them profitable, but not at the levels that justify increasing capex for E&P activities. In the case of gas, companies focusing on that commodity, are not getting returns that provide free cash and are reducing activity to minimize losses.

In order for an inflection point to occur that reignites capital allocation for new drilling, substantially better pricing is needed. As long as production from shale is increasing or nearing a balance point, the market will continue to discount WTI and Brent.

The good news for investors in E&P companies is there is some light at the end of this tunnel, and in a year or two hence, a price signal could be sent that tells the industry to begin expansion once again. When this occurs, revenues and cash flow will increase, sending share prices higher. Potentially much higher.

By David Messler for Oilprice.com

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Were only just discovering the depths of AIs potential, but it already seems impossible to imagine a future without it. Love it or hate it, stunning technological breakthrough or new world order, it seems to be a given that artificial intelligence is here to stay. But it turns out that the continued advancement of AI is not a guarantee unless an energy breakthrough occurs that would allow us to meet its insatiable demand for electricity. Reuters reports that artificial intelligence will consume vastly more power than people have expected and meeting that need will require as-yet unproven and undiscovered technological advances.

Already, the carbon footprint of Artificial Intelligence is almost as large as that of Bitcoin  which is to say, it consumes as much energy as some entire developed nations. Currently, the entire IT industry is responsible for around 2 percent of global CO2 emissions, Science Alert reported last year. And its set to grow at a breakneck pace. Consulting firm Gartner projects that if business continues as usual, the AI sector alone will consume 3.5 percent of global electricity by 2030.

Estimations suggest that the training process for GPT-3, the predecessor of ChatGPT, required around 1,287 megawatt hours of electricity and 10,000 computer chips  enough energy to power about 121 homes in the United States (where the average home consumes a considerable amount of energy compared to other nations) for an entire year. The amount of energy used to train GPT-3 is also sufficient to produce around 550 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Indeed, estimated figures suggest that Open.AI, the creators of ChatGPT, spend about US$700,000 per day on computing costs alone to run its chatbot service for its approximately 100 million users around the globe.

Just this week, OpenAI chief executive officer Sam Altman spoke to the fact that artificial intelligence is rushing headfirst toward a brick wall  while the technology continues to spread and advance at a rapid clip, theres no plan for how its operations will continue to secure enough energy going forward. "There's no way to get there without a breakthrough," he said on Tuesday at a Bloomberg event on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos. But he said there is a light at the end of the tunel, and it lies in the research and development of carbon-free energy production. In particular, Altman says that the energy puzzle facing the future of AI " motivates us to go invest more in fusion."

Altman is putting his money where his mouth is. In 2021, he personally provided $375 million in funding to private U.S. nuclear fusion company Helion Energy, which has since inked a deal with Microsoft to provide energy to the world's largest software maker. Altman is also chairman of the board for nuclear microreactor company Oklo, which he hopes to help take public this year. The AI systems of the future will need tremendous amounts of energy and this fission and fusion can help deliver them, Altman told the Wall Street Journal last year.

While AI is poised to consume a problematic amount of energy, it could also be integral to the global decarbonization process. Meeting global climate goals will require systems transformation at an unprecedented scale, which will be impossible without intelligent, responsive, and flexible computing systems able to recognize and predict complex patterns of production and consumption. Already, AI is integral to renewable energy forecasting, smart grids, coordination of energy demand and distribution, maximizing efficiency of power production, and research and development of new materials.

AI may be the key to beating global warming  if it's used and powered responsibly. "Fundamentally speaking, if you do want to save the planet with AI, you have to consider also the environmental footprint," Sasha Luccioni, researcher of ethics at the open-source machine learning platform Hugging Face, was quoted by The Guardian. "It doesn't make sense to burn a forest and then use AI to track deforestation."

By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com

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Irans Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, gave his official approval on 18 January to a new 20-year comprehensive cooperation deal between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia, according to a senior energy source in Iran and a senior source in the European Unions (E.U.) energy security complex, exclusively spoken to by OilPrice.com last week. The 20-year deal  The Treaty on the Basis of Mutual Relations and Principles of Cooperation between Iran and Russia - was presented for his consideration on 11 December 2023. It will replace the 10-year-deal signed in March 2001 (extended twice by five years) and has been expanded not only in duration but also in scope and scale, particularly in the defense and energy sectors. In several respects, the new deal additionally complements key elements of the all-encompassing Iran-China 25-Year Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement, as first revealed anywhere in the world in my 3 September 2019 article on the subject and analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order.

In the energy sector to begin with, the new deal gives Russia the first right of extraction in the Iranian section of the Caspian Sea, including the potentially huge Chalous field. The wider Caspian basins area, including both onshore and offshore fields, is conservatively estimated to have around 48 billion barrels of oil and 292 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of natural gas in proven and probable reserves. In 2019, Russia was instrumental in changing the legal status of the Caspian basins area, cutting Irans share from 50 percent to just 11.875 percent in the process, as also detailed in my new book. Before the Chalous discovery, this meant that Iran would lose at least US$3.2 trillion in revenues from the lost value of energy products across the shared assets of the Caspian Sea resource going forward. Given the newest internal-use only estimates from Iran and Russia, this figure could be a lot higher. Previously, the estimates were that Chalous contained around 124 billion cubic feet (bcf) of gas in place. This equated to around one quarter of the gas reserves contained in Irans supergiant South Pars natural gas field that account for around 40 percent of Irans total estimated gas reserves and about 80 per cent of its gas production. The new estimates are that it is a twin-field site, nine kilometres apart, with Greater Chalous having 208 bcf of gas in place, and Lesser Chalous having 42 bcf of gas, giving a combined figure of 250 bcm of gas.

Related: E&P Companies Face Tough Year Despite Oil Patch 'Bumper Crop'

The same right of first extraction for Russia will also now apply to Irans major oil and gas fields in the Khorramshahr and nearby Ilam provinces that border Iraq. The shared fields of Iran and Iraq have long allowed Tehran to side-step sanctions in place against its key oil sector, as it is impossible to tell what oil has come from the Iranian side or the Iraqi side of these fields, which means that Iran is able simply to rebrand its own sanctioned oil as unsanctioned Iraqi oil and ship it anywhere it wants, as also analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order. Former Petroleum Minister, Bijan Zanganeh, publicly highlighted this very practice when he said in 2020: What we export is not under Irans name. The documents are changed over and over, as well as [the] specifications. Another advantage of the shared fields is that they allow effectively free movement of personnel from the Iranian side to the Iraqi side, and the utilisation of key oil and gas developments across Iraq is a key part of Irans longstanding plan, fully supported by Russia, to build a land bridge to the Mediterranean Sea coast of Syria. This would enable Iran and Russia to exponentially increase weapons delivery into southern Lebanon and the Golan Heights area of Syria to be used in attacks on Israel. The core aim of this policy is to provoke a broader conflict in the Middle East that would draw in the U.S. and its allies into an unwinnable war of the sort seen recently in Iraq and Afghanistan, and which may soon be seen as the Israel-Hamas War escalates.

The price of all manufactured items traded between Russia and Iran, including military and energy hardware, has been formalised in the new deal, although also not in Irans favour. For Iranian goods exported to Russia, Tehran will receive the cost of production plus 8 percent. However, these export sales to Russia will not be transferred to Iran, but rather they will be held as credit in the Central Bank of Russia (CBR). Moreover, Iran will receive a huge markdown on US dollar/Rouble or Euro/Rouble exchange rates used to calculate its credits in the CBR. Conversely, for Russian goods exported to Iran, Moscow will receive the payment in advance of delivery and at a much stronger exchange rate that benefits Russia. Moreover, the base price before any exchange rate calculations are made, will be founded on the highest price that Russia has received in the previous 180 days for whichever product it is selling Iran. This system has informally been in place for several weeks now, and according to the senior energy sector source in Tehran exclusively spoken to by OilPrice.com last week, Russia has ensured itself the highest possible price by selling to Belarus at a very large premium whichever product it intends to sell later to Iran, so establishing the required pricing benchmark. Payments for goods and services falling outside the direct finance route between the central banks of the two countries can now be done through interbank transfers between Iranian and Russian banks. Those also involving renminbi can also be done through Chinas Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) system, its alternative to the globally-dominant Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) system.

In many cases, the expansion of military cooperation between Iran and Russia is tied into the energy sector elements of the new 20-year deal. Progress is earmarked to be made on upgrading the facilities at the key airports and seaports that have long been targeted by Russia as being especially useful for dual-use by its air force and navy, and which are also close to major oil and gas facilities. Top of the list of Iranian airports that Russia regards as the best for dual-use by its air force are Hamedan, Bandar Abbas, Chabahar, and Abadan, and it is apposite to note that in August 2016, Russia used the Hamedan airbase to launch attacks on targets in Syria using both Tupolev-22M3 long-range bombers and Sukhoi-34 strike fighters. Top of the list of seaports for use by its navy are Chabahar, Bandar-e-Bushehr, and Bandar Abbas. Similarly linked to Russias gaining the first right of extraction in the Iranian section of the Caspian Sea is that it will also be given a joint command capability over the northern aerospace defense section of Irans Caspian area.

It is also apposite to note here that Irans electronic warfare (EW) system can easily be tied into Russias Southern Joint Strategic Command 19th EW Brigade (Rassvet) near Rostov-on-Don to the northwest of the Caspian. This can also be linked in with Chinas EW capabilities. These EW capabilities would include jamming systems for neutralising air defences in the region. This will be augmented with new missiles designated to be sent to Iran by Russia under the new deal, according to the senior E.U. security sector source exclusively spoken to by OilPrice.com last week. Selected IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps] personnel will be trained on the latest Russian upgrades of several short- and long-range missiles - the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal, the Iskander M, the RS-26 Rubezh, the BrahMos3, and the Avangard - before the plan to manufacture them under licence in Iran begins, with the aim being to have 30 percent of them stay in Iran, with the rest being sent back to Russia, he said.

What all of this means, is that the new 20 -year deal between Iran and Russia will change the landscape of the Middle East, southern Europe, and Asia as Iran will have a much-extended military reach that will give it much more leverage to make political demands across those region, he exclusively told OilPrice.com last week. This reach also means that countries in these areas will feel that continuing to rely on the U.S. for their protection is a lot more of a precarious option than it was before, he concluded.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

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Israeli forces have advanced deep into western Khan Younis, storming one hospital and placing another under siege, cutting the wounded off from trauma care, Palestinian officials told Reuters on Monday. Troops advanced into the al-Mawasi district near the Mediterranean Coast, west of Khan Younis, the main city in southern Gaza. There, Israeli forces stormed the Al-Khair hospital and started arresting medical staff, Gaza health ministry spokesman Ashraf al Qidra reported to Reuters.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said tanks had also surrounded another Khan Younis hospital, al-Amal, headquarters of the rescue agency, which had lost contact with its staff there. Qidra said at least 50 people were killed overnight in Khan Younis, while the sieges of medical facilities meant dozens of dead and wounded were beyond the reach of rescuers.

"The Israeli occupation is preventing ambulance vehicles from moving to recover bodies of martyrs and the wounded from western Khan Younis," he said.

A young man, Rabie Salem, sat on the floor cradling a small, wounded girl in his arms. They had finally reached the hospital in the morning after waiting for an ambulance through the night, while his mother lay dying. She had told him not to worry about her and help the rest of the family, he said, weeping: "Now she is gone."

Outside, men were digging graves inside the hospital grounds because it was no longer safe to venture out to the cemetery. A man placed the tiny body of a toddler wrapped inside a white shroud into a shallow hole in the sand. Authorities said 40 people were buried there."It's very difficult to leave the complex and go to any cemetery and bury them because we're under siege and anyone who leaves the complex is targeted," said Abdelkarim Ahmad, participating in the burials.

"Hamas embeds its operation within and under hospitals and other medical facilities," said Elad Goren of COGAT, the Israeli defense ministry branch that coordinates with the Palestinians.

What Exactly Happened?

The BBC reported residents said tanks had surrounded a hospital and university where thousands of displaced people were sheltering. Khan Younis has been a recent focus of Israeli forces, who are convinced top Hamas commanders are holed up there.

As the US, Qatar, and Egypt try to mediate, Hamas has demanded that Israel end the war and withdraw its forces before the hostages are released. But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected such a deal, saying it would amount to a capitulation to "monsters" and mean soldiers had "fallen in vain".

Hamas gunmen took about 250 people hostage and killed 1,300 others when they carried out an unprecedented cross-border attack on southern Israel on 7 October, Israeli authorities said. At least 25,295 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the Israeli military launched a large-scale air and ground campaign in response. More are believed to be dead or lost under rubble.

According to BBC, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told hostages' families on Sunday evening that troops were "engaging in a forceful operation in the Khan Younis area, and it will expand." Overnight, Khan Younis was pounded by heavy Israeli bombing. Explosions were seen lighting up the sky and constant gunfire was heard in videos.

Al Jazeera confirms that at least 190 Palestinians were killed and 340 wounded in Gaza over the last 24 hours.

Service Employees International Union (SEIU), which represents nearly two million employees in healthcare, the public sector, and property services in the United States and Canada, has called for ending the war on Gaza.

Labor movements, a traditional constituency in the Democratic Party of US President Joe Biden, have been increasingly backing the call for a ceasefire, adding to the pressure against the White House's unwavering support for the war.

"We call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the delivery of life-saving food, water, medicine, and other resources to the people of Gaza," SEIU President Mary Kay Henry said in a statement.

She added that the demand is "rooted in the pain" felt by the union's members, including "the hundreds of thousands of SEIU healthcare workers who see themselves in the healthcare workers in Gaza who have been killed trying to save lives."

There was no immediate word from Israel on the situation at the hospital. The military spokesperson's office had no comment.
A court-ordered auction of the shares of the parent company of Venezuela-owned U.S. oil refiner Citgo Petroleum has attracted dozens of companies interested in the data and the auction process, sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Monday.

There are multiple pockets of capital looking at Citgos parent company PDV Holding and its assets, one of the sources told Reuters.

The sale process was launched by a Delaware court in October 2023. As the bidding round is drawing to a close, dozens of energy firms and investment banks have lately rushed to obtain financial data on Citgo and its parent company, according to several sources who spoke to Reuters.

The bidding round is for creditors and claimants against Venezuelas oil asset appropriation and debts owed by Venezuelas U.S.-based refiner Citgo.

Overall, creditors and claimants have sought to recoup at courts in Delaware a total of $23 billion in claims and arbitration awards against Venezuela.

Citgo is the seventh-largest refiner in the United States with a total capacity topping 800,000 barrels daily. It has plants in Texas, Louisiana, and Illinois, along with pipelines and a gasoline distribution network that supplies 4,200 outlets in the United States.

First in line, when the court-ordered share sale takes place, would be Canadian Crystallex. The miner was the first company to make a claim against PDVSA after Venezuela nationalized a gold mine it operated in the country. An arbitration court awarded Crystallex $1.4 billion in damages several years ago and the company agreed to the sum.

Since then, PDVSA has made some payments to the Canadian miner and now it is due around $1 billion, media have reported earlier.

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ConocoPhillips will also be near the front of the line to recoup costs associated with Venezuelas expropriation of two of its crude oil projects.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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ExxonMobil is suing two activist investor groups in a Texas district court, aiming to block their climate proposals from going to a vote at the annual shareholder meeting later this year in the first such direct complaint to court instead of to the SEC.

Exxon filed late on Sunday a lawsuit at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas against U.S. activist investor Arjuna Capital and shareholder activist group Follow This. Those two investors have filed a proposal for Exxons shareholders to vote at the annual general meeting on May 29 to have Exxon commit to further emissions reductions, including Scope 3  emissions from the product it sells.

Exxon is seeking for the first time a judgment from the court to exclude a proposal for an upcoming shareholders vote. Previously, the supermajor, and other publicly traded firms, have sought SEC advice on the merits of proposals to be included in the proxy statement for the shareholders meeting.

Arguing its case in the Texas district court, Exxon says that Defendants are asking Exxon Mobil to change its day-to-day business by altering the mix ofor even eliminatingcertain of the products that it sells, as carried in The Wall Street Journal.

The goal of Arjuna Capital and Follow This is to force Exxon Mobil to change the nature of its ordinary business or to go out of business entirely, the supermajor says.

Exxon also argues that the two activist investors have become shareholders solely to campaign for change through shareholder proposals that are calculated to diminish the companys existing business.

These investors are aided in their efforts by a flawed shareholder proposal and proxy voting process that does not serve investors interests and has become ripe for abuse.

Exxon also says in the complaint that under SEC rules, a firm can exclude a proposal from shareholder vote if it is basically the same as previous proposals of the past five years and doesnt meet the criteria to be resubmitted.

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Last year, a proposal to establish a Scope 3 emissions target and reduce hydrocarbon sales was rejected by Exxons shareholders with 89.5% votes against and 10.5% votes in favor. The threshold for resubmitting the proposal is 15% of votes in favor.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Day rates for shipping gasoline from Europe to the U.S. have tripled since the beginning of the year, Bloomberg reports, citing data from the Baltic Exchange on Monday, as Yemens Iran-backed Houthis continue their relentless attack on vessels traversing the Red Sea.

The day rate for a single cargo of gasoline heading from northwestern Europe to the east coast of the United States reached nearly $38,000 per day on Monday, Bloomberg reported.

That represents a tripling of day rates since the beginning of the year.

Cargoes are increasingly being rerouted around Africa to avoid the Red Sea, with the significantly lengthier journeys meaning that there are fewer vessels available on the spot market, Bloomberg noted.

The situation in the Red Sea continued to intensify on Monday, with the Houthis claiming to have launched a missile attack on an American military cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden.

Reports were still emerging at the time of writing, with no confirmation from the U.S. military. It remained unclear whether the alleged attack resulted in any damage. The Yemeni armed forces continue to retaliate to any American or British aggression against our country by targeting all sources of threat in the Red and Arab Sea, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a Monday statement carried by Reuters.

Reuters cited a British maritime security firm as confirming that the vessel the Houthis claim to have attacked, the Ocean Jazz, had been contracted by the U.S. military.

Also on Monday, Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the U.S. Navys top Middle East commander, told the Associated Press that Iran was very directly involved in the shipping attacks carried out by the Houthis, though statements have been vague, at best. Cooper did not say that the attacks were being directed by Tehran on a case-by-case basis.

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By Charles Kennedy for Oilprfice.com

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Russia became Chinas largest oil supplier last year, selling it a record 107.02 million tons of crude, according to Chinese customs data, as cited by Reuters.

The total amount equaled a daily import rate of 2.14 million barrels, far ahead of Saudi Arabia, whose oil exports to China slipped to a daily average of some 1.7 million barrels last year, the data also showed. In June 2023, Russian exports to China hit an all-time high of 2.57 million barrels daily.

The Western sanctions on Russian crude were instrumental in this development. The sanctionsin the form of a price cap on Russian oil shipments abroadprompted previous buyers to shun Russian oil but China was only too happy to take more in, as was India. The price discount that the sanctions caused was a big reason for that, even though it narrowed with time, as Russian oil prices moved in sync with global prices.

The same developments turned China into Russias largest oil customer last year. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said earlier this month that half of Russias crude oil exports went to China, which made it the biggest buyer of Russian oil.

"The main partners in the current situation are China, whose share has grown to approximately 45-50%, and, of course, India," Novak said, as quoted by VOA News. "Earlier, there basically were no supplies to India; in two years, the total share of supplies to India has come to 40%."

India was the other country that saw Russia turn into its largest oil supplier last year, while the share of Europe in Russian oil imports dropped from around 45% to about 4-5% as the European Union imposed an embargo on Russian oil and petroleum product purchases in December 2022 and February 2023.

Together, China and India took in some 90% of Russias oil exports in 2023.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Saudi Arabias crude oil exports inched up in November from October to reach a five-month high, data from the Joint Organizations Data Initiative (JODI) showed on Monday.

Crude oil exports from the worlds top crude exporter rose by 39,000 barrels per day (bpd) to around 6.34 million in November, up from Octobers 6.3 million bpd level, according to the latest available data in JODI, which compiles self-reported data from many countries.

Yet, Saudi crude oil production fell in November by 122,000 bpd to 8.82 million bpdthe lowest level so far for 2023, per the data in JODI, as the Kingdom continues to cut production as part of the OPEC+ agreement and reduces voluntarily output by an extra 1 million bpd.

Saudi Arabias crude oil production in November was below the five-year average range for the period 2018 through 2022, the data showed.

The volume of direct burn of crude fell slightly in November, and so did refinery runs, according to JODI.

Saudi crude oil and oil products closing stocks fell by 4.05 million barrels to 230.4 million barrels in November. Of these, product inventories dropped by 4.19 million barrels, while crude inventories increased by 140,000 barrels.

Saudi Arabias crude oil production and exports in early 2024 are expected to be around the levels reported in the most recent JODI datasets as the Kingdom has pledged to continue its voluntary production cut of 1 million bpd by the end of the first quarter of the year.

Saudi Arabias Energy Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, said at the end of 2023 that the OPEC+ production cuts could extend beyond March 2024 if the market requires it. The Saudi energy minister also criticized in early December commentators for failing to understand the groups output agreement and suggested that this would change once people see the reality of the deal.

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Tyra, the largest natural gas field offshore Denmark, is currently on schedule to resume production in March after years of redevelopment, the fields operator TotalEnergies said on Monday.

TotalEnergies and partners are progressing preparations to restart the Tyra field as planned, the French oil and gas supermajor said in a statement.

The field was temporarily closed for redevelopment in 2019.

The status of the redevelopment project currently indicates that March 31, 2024, remains the restart date, but depending on the progress of the project, this may be reached earlier in March, the company said.

TotalEnergies holds 43.2% and is the operator of the Tyra gas field, which aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 30% with the redevelopment project.

The redevelopment of the field, which was operational for more than 30 years, has become necessary due to the natural subsidence of the reservoir, and TotalEnergies says the redevelopment is an opportunity to secure and revitalize production.

Once the modernized Tyra II is back on stream, it is expected to deliver 2.8 billion cubic meters of gas per year, which accounts for 80% of the expected Danish gas production, according to TotalEnergies.

With tests of all central facilities, we are now very close to being able to deliver first gas, said Michael Lindholm Pihl Larsen, Technical Project Lead of the Tyra Redevelopment Project.

The restart of the field will contribute to the energy security and independence of Denmark and Europe, TotalEnergies says.

Europe is in need of natural gas from sources other than Russia and the restart of the Danish gas field is welcome news for Europes gas supply this year.

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Despite severely reduced Russian pipeline gas flows just to few customers in Europe, the continent is faring well in its second winter without most of the Russian gas, thanks to lower consumption from industry and above-average gas inventories.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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A 23-year-old Nebraska man with two prior child pornography convictions was sentenced Thursday in federal court to 20 years in prison for distributing child sex abuse materials.

Joseph Martin pleaded guilty last year to distribution of child sex abuse materials with a prior conviction for the same offense. In exchange for his plea, prosecutors dismissed three additional counts alleging possession and transportation of the materials.

Martin, who has lived in both Omaha and Hebron, Nebraska, according to court documents, faced between 15 and 40 years in prison for the federal charge because of his previous convictions. After he serves the 20-year prison sentence, Martin will be placed on federal supervised release for 30 years.

Martin was first arrested in 2018 when he was 18 years old after his foster mother found a cellphone hidden in his bedroom containing explicit photos of very young girls, according to court documents. He pleaded no contest to two counts of possessing child pornography as a minor and was placed on probation for three years.

While Martin was on probation, according to court documents, probation officers conducted a search of his cellphone and laptop in March 2020. On the laptop, officers found multiple photos of children in various stages of undress as well as a variety of concerning Google searches. On one website, he went by the username littlegirlabductor, according to court documents.

As a result of the search, Martin was charged again with second-offense possession of child pornography. He pleaded guilty to a reduced charge and was sentenced to three to four years in the Douglas County Jail, and also was required to register as a sex offender.

According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, the federal investigation into Martin began in August 2021 when Homeland Security received a cyber tip from Facebook. The tip provided the IP address of an account that had uploaded images of child exploitation to the platform, which traced back to Martins Facebook account.
Back in the Cold War years, the Soviet nuclear threat compelled the Strategic Air Command to keep an EC-135 command-post plane airborne continuously  for 29 years.

SAC called the plane Looking Glass, because its communications systems mirrored the ones on the ground at SACs Offutt Air Force Base headquarters. A general officer on board could launch nuclear weapons even if the Pentagon, the White House and SAC had all been incinerated in a Russian first strike.

The plane was the linchpin of U.S. nuclear strategy during the Cold War because it ensured that the United States could retaliate if Russia attacked first. It was the guarantor of mutually assured destruction.

The whole concept was, this is whats left after were attacked by a nuclear adversary, said retired Maj. Gen. Rick Evans, a former Looking Glass battle staff commander who is now executive director of the University of Nebraskas National Strategic Research Institute. You had the capability to respond to a no-notice attack.

The continuous airborne alerts started Feb. 3, 1961, and ended July 24, 1990, when warming relations with the Russians made them seem unnecessary. The Air Force scrapped or repurposed the aging EC-135s. The once-iconic Looking Glass  spotlighted in period TV films such as The Day After and By Dawns Early Light, and even the television show Lassie  faded from public view.

But not at U.S. Strategic Command, SACs post-Cold War successor as custodians of Americas nuclear arsenal. In the decades since, StratCom battle staff crews have remained on ground alert, ready to take wing within 15 minutes aboard Navy E-6B aircraft at the first sign of conflict.

If you thought that mission went away  it never did, Evans said. Its as important as ever.

Now U.S. Rep. Don Bacon  an Air Force and Looking Glass veteran  wants to get those planes flying 24/7/365 once again around the clock. He believes the threat now is even greater than it was in the 1960s and 70s. He fears our adversaries could decapitate our leadership with a bolt-from-the-blue strike using bombs launched from submarines or new hypersonic aircraft before Looking Glass could even get airborne.

With minimal warning times, the White House, the Pentagon and StratCom could be hit, and youre headless, Bacon said during a Nov. 15 congressional subcommittee meeting. Its not for us. Its for the Russians and Chinese, so they cant catch us by surprise.

Such a move wouldnt come cheap. During the Cold War, it took a fleet of more than 40 EC-135s and thousands of airmen at several airbases (including Offutt) to ensure that at least one Looking Glass was airborne at all times.

Even now, the Navy uses 16 E-6Bs to maintain its perpetual ground alert for Looking Glass while also flying the TACAMO (Take Charge and Move Out) mission to communicate missile launch signals to ballistic-missile submarines.

Looking Glass is nearing a turning point in its history since the Navy is planning to retire the fleet E-6Bs, a military variant of the civilian Boeing 707 built in the 1980s. It has already announced plans to move TACAMO onto the new EC-130J-30, a smaller propeller-driven aircraft that wont accommodate both missions.

The Air Force is shopping around for a single type of aircraft to replace both the E-6B and the Offutt-based E-4B Nightwatch jets, which fly a similar doomsday mission as an airborne command post for top military leaders if nuclear war broke out.

Bacons idea is to buy eight to 10 surplus Boeing airliners and outfit them with the Looking Glass communications gear, then stand up two squadrons to carry out their round-the-clock work.

Hopefully it would be at Offutt, he said. Were going to have to find a new airframe, anyway.

In the late 1950s, the first idea of the longtime SAC commander Gen. Curtis LeMay for backing up nuclear command and control functions was to dig deep underground. He supported building a 20,000-square-foot bomb-proof bunker deep beneath the prairie near Pawnee City, Nebraska, Evans said.

But the cost grew prohibitive, especially since the Air Force was already building a large headquarters bunker for the North American Air Defense Command (NORAD) inside Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado.

So LeMay looked to the air instead, and conceived of Looking Glass. He worried that any ground-based systems could be knocked out by the Soviets, said Al Buckles, a special advisor to StratComs Strategic Advisory Board. An airborne command post took advantage of VHF line-of-sight communications links.

The airplane gave you the perfect platform for that, he said.

Buckles, 87, served in the Air Force from 1955-80, nearly all of it with SAC, and decades more in senior civilian positions at SAC and StratCom. He racked up more than 7,000 hours on Looking Glass missions.

He agrees that with the emergence of new Russian and Chinese weapons,  plus terrorism and cyber threats that didnt exist during the Cold War  StratCom needs to beef up its command, control and communications structures.

Its not there right now. Weve got to rebuild that capability, Buckles said. You may need airplanes. But you need a combination of things.

He said there simply arent enough E-6Bs to stay aloft for long in the event of nuclear Armageddon.

If a war starts tomorrow, you might be able to get two missions out of that airplane, Buckles said.

Still, Bacons plan has been met with skepticism in some quarters.

It sounds a bit over-the-top to me, said Hans Kristensen, director of the Nuclear Information project for the Federation of American Scientists, which advocates for limits on nuclear weapons.

I suspect hypersonic attacks wouldnt come out of the blue, he added. Just because new types of weapons are coming doesnt mean we have to turn back the clock.

Shiny new 'Looking Glass' on display at SAC Museum after 6-year restoration Cold War planes and crews were prepped to launch missiles if SAC's Offutt HQ had been obliterated in a Soviet first strike.

Evans supports beefing up StratComs command-and-control readiness, although he cautions that a major step like returning to continuous airborne alert could provoke a response from Russia and China.

Our adversaries would see that as a major change in our nuclear posture, he said.

Bacon said he has won the backing of Rep. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts, an Iraq War veteran who is the ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.

We could use a return to this level of alert and deterrent given the ability of adversaries to attack us with hypersonics with little to no warning, Moulton said in a statement to The World-Herald.

Bacon said he has not yet won over senior uniformed leaders on the Joint Chiefs of Staff and at StratCom. He said one top Pentagon official told him 15 minutes warning was sufficient.

The militarys not on board yet, he said.

Ann Stefanek, a senior Air Force spokeswoman, said her office hasnt been tracking the issue.

If Bacon has his way, they will be hearing more about it soon.

Im going to be pushing this, he said. Sometimes Congress has to force change.

Photos: StratCom Experience Day at Offutt Air Force Base
As southern border states struggle with a record flow of asylum-seekers, major destination cities such as Chicago, Denver and New York City continue to ask for more federal help to handle the bus riders sent by Texas and Arizona.

Our cities are working shoulder-to-shoulder to support newcomers, but its time for the federal government to increase work authorization, create a coordinated entry strategy, and provide more federal dollars, Denver Democratic Mayor Mike Johnston wrote in a recent statement.

A former top national immigration official recently offered a proposal: Fund basic help for migrants at the border and in destination cities, send them where theyre wanted and can get jobs, and make quick decisions on asylum to discourage mass entry.

Quick decisions are key, said Doris Meissner, who headed the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service during the Clinton administration. She co-authored a new report released by the Migration Policy Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C., that analyzes immigration policy.

If you can make decisions in weeks or months instead of years, you can really have a functioning system, Meissner said in an interview. The problem right now is these decisions take years to make and by the time you get a decision, people have already sunk roots in the community and removal becomes far more unlikely.

The proposal is something border communities in Texas very much want, since state officials have been hostile to any help for migrants crossing the border, said David Stout, a Democratic county commissioner in El Paso County.

The funding and coordination proposed by MPI and Meissner are exactly the kind of solutions we need and that Republicans have been blocking, Stout said. We are trying our best at the local level, with some federal support, but its difficult with interference on the part of some political leaders and some states like Texas.

As policymakers search for answers, states have increased confrontations over the issue in recent weeks.

This month, New York City sued charter bus companies used by Texas to send migrants, seeking $708 million in costs for caring for the new residents. New Jersey Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy warned bus operators from Louisiana and Texas not to drop off passengers in that state without notice; many have done so to avoid New York City restrictions.

Texas National Guard begins arresting migrants along US-Mexico border The battle over whether individual states can take matters into their own hands when it comes to border security is now centered on a park in 

Texas continued on its course of harsher enforcement, with Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signing a bill into law last month that makes illegal border crossing a state crime, allowing police and National Guard units to make arrests. The law is set to go into effect in March, but the Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit to block it.

The state this month seized control of a public park on the border despite the protests of local officials to use as a staging area for arrests and installation of border barriers. The DOJ has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene, saying the state was blocking border patrol access to the area.

A new border system could include the coordinated movement of asylum-seekers with valid cases to places that really want them, not just to shelters in New York, Meissner said.

There are areas throughout the country where immigration has become a lifeline in terms of maintaining population levels and younger workers coming into the labor market.

Cities that have recently called for more immigrants to fill jobs include Erie, Pennsylvania, and Topeka, Kansas, which have Democratic mayors. Both declined to comment for this story on whether they would participate in a program for asylum-seekers.

The Pittsburgh area, which has seen thousands of new immigrants arriving from the border in recent years, has a decade-old program to welcome them as one tool to halt population decline. Last year, leaders there prepared for the arrival of a busload of migrants, but that did not happen.

Even Republican states have been rethinking the need for more legal immigration to address the issues of aging populations and labor shortages.

Alaska restarted a long-dormant refugee assistance program to welcome about 700 Ukrainian refugees and help fill a shortage of skilled labor, said Catherine Munoz, the states acting labor commissioner. She wasnt sure whether the state would participate in a program for asylum-seekers.

The Republican governors of Indiana and Utah wrote an editorial last year calling for state-sponsored immigration to fill needed jobs.

Whether the Migration Policy Institute recommendations will gain traction is hard to say. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Meissner said the changes wouldnt require new laws and could be paid for with border security funding.

Border crossings remained near record levels in October and November, the latest figures available, with about 240,000 people trying to cross the border illegally each month.

One reason for chaos in the transportation of migrants from the border: new arrivals of people from countries such as Venezuela and Nicaragua without family ties in the United States, said Abel Nunez, director of the Central American Resource Center in Washington, D.C., a group that helps greet buses of migrants from Texas and other states.

I agree that there needs to be more funding for a coordinated effort to get the migrants from the border to the interior, Nunez said. The process should include parts of the country that desperately need more workers and not just the large cities.

Photos: Migrant families leave NYC shelters under eviction notice
MANCHESTER, N.H.  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.

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 spoke at 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. After months of contentious exchanges, Trump struck a more conciliatory tone late Sunday during a rally in Rochester, New Hampshire, calling DeSantis a really terrific person.

I also look forward to working with Ron to win the general election, Trump said.

DeSantis 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 roller-coaster weekend that included stops in South Carolina ahead of an event Sunday evening in New Hampshire that was ultimately canceled. The campaign also canceled a series of national television appearances earlier in the day, blaming the cancellations 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 matchup 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 president's 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.
Microsoft-backed OpenAI has banned the developer of a bot mimicking Democratic presidential hopeful Congressman Dean Phillips, the first action the ChatGPT maker has taken in response to what it sees as a misuse of its artificial intelligence (AI) tools in a political campaign, The Washington Post reported on Saturday.

Dean Phillips, a Democratic congressman from Minnesota, is vying for the Democratic nomination in the 2024 primaries against President Joe Biden. Phillips sees his candidacy as a way to strengthen the Democratic Party's chances against Donald Trump, believing that a competitive primary will better position the party for success. With a focus on the New Hampshire primary, Phillips aims to secure a significant portion of the vote, targeting a goal of 20%.

Dean.Bot, which could talk to voters in real-time via a website, was taken down by the start-up following the suspension, per The Post.

"We recently removed a developer account that was knowingly violating our API usage policies which disallow political campaigning, or impersonating an individual without consent," a spokesperson for OpenAI said in a statement to Reuters.

Dean.Bot, powered by OpenAI's ChatGPT was created by Silicon Valley entrepreneurs Matt Krisiloff and Jed Somers, who started a super PAC named We Deserve Better supporting Phillips, ahead of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday, the report added.

The PAC has received $1 million from billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who called it "by far the largest investment I have ever made in someone running for office" in a post on social media platform X.

In a statement shared with Axios on Sunday, a spokesperson for OpenAI said, "Anyone who builds with our tools must follow our usage policies."

The suspension and subsequent bot removal occurred shortly before Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, where Phillips continues his long-shot presidential bid against President Biden - the incumbent and Democratic frontrunner.
Drought conditions that persisted for much of the year across the Plains and Midwest, including in Nebraska, failed to hamper the nations corn crop.

Nationwide, 2023s 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 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 states 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 well get the beneficial moisture we need, he said.

Thanks to lower commodity prices, farm income is forecast to drop nationally in 2023.

USDAs 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.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024
A 36-year-old Louisville, Nebraska, man died Sunday when his vehicle crashed into a creek in Sarpy County.

Jeremy Stuhr was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Sarpy County Sherriffs Office. A passerby called 911 about 7:40 a.m. Sunday after seeing 2010 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck upside down in a creek near Springfield.

Deputies and Springfield Volunteer Fire Department personnel went to the area of 17400 S. 180th Street to investigate. Stuhr was found inside the pickup truck.

A preliminary investigation indicates Stuhr failed to navigate a bend in the road, left the roadway and ended up in the creek. It appears, a spokesman for the Sheriffs Office said, that the crash occurred a few hours prior to the vehicle being found. An autopsy is pending, the spokesman said.
LINCOLN  Nearly five years after Nebraska put a troubled Kansas-based nonprofit in charge of child welfare in the Omaha area, state lawmakers have begun changing a process that led to that failed contract and others.

State senators on Monday voted 45-0 to give the first of three rounds of approval to Legislative Bill 461, sponsored by Speaker of the Legislature John Arch of La Vista. He introduced the bill last year but the session ended before it could be considered.

Arch said the measure provides a much-needed, long-overdue update to state procurement laws, most of which were written in the 1940s. Most importantly, he said, it eliminates language in current law requiring the state to award contracts to the lowest responsible bidder.

Under LB 461, state officials could reject bids if the price offered was not reasonable or not realistic and they could only give contracts to responsible bidders. A reasonable price would not exceed the market rates. A realistic price would be sufficient to get the job done properly.

Such language could have prevented the Department of Health and Human Services from awarding a contract to St. Francis Ministries in 2019, Arch said.

The nonprofit offered to manage the care of abused and neglected children in the Omaha area for 40% less than the Omaha-based agency that had been doing the job. No state official publicly questioned the bid, which was the lowest offered, despite concerns raised by outside child welfare advocates.

HHS signed a five-year, $197 million contract with St. Francis in July 2019 but was later forced to sign a new, emergency contract when financial shortfalls nearly forced the nonprofits Omaha operations to shut down. The new 25-month, $147.3 million contract erased the original 40% cost difference.

Meanwhile, St. Francis never met contract terms or complied with state laws limiting caseload sizes. The contract has since been terminated.

The legislative investigation that followed uncovered a history of problems with the states procurement process.

Along with the St. Francis contract, other notable procurement failures include the states 2007 contract to develop a major Medicaid claims processing and information system and a 2014 contract for a new Medicaid eligibility and enrollment system.

In the first case, state officials signed a $45 million contract with FourThought Group, based in Arizona. HHS officials terminated the contract in July 2009, after only 15 months, saying the company did not have the capacity to deliver the system they proposed. The state paid the company more than $11 million.

In the second case, state officials signed an $80 million contract with Wipro, based in India. Four years later, HHS officials ordered a review of the project, which concluded there was no evidence Wipro had completed any part of the project. HHS terminated the contract in December 2018, after having paid Wipro $58.6 million. The state agreed to pay another $5.5 million last year as part of a settlement with Wipro.

A bill passed in 2022 required the state to evaluate the state procurement process. Ikaso Consulting, which did the evaluation, made 33 recommendations to improve the states contracting process and practices. LB 461 would implement several of the recommendations, while the Department of Administrative Services is working on the rest.

Along with changing language about low bids, the bill would require state agencies to prove that a contract was needed before signing a contract, rather than after. It also would remove bidding preferences given to Nebraska vendors. Such preferences make it harder for Nebraska vendors to get contracts with other states.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024
LINCOLN  A bill that would remove existing barriers to occupational licensure has made it through the first round of debate in the Nebraska Legislature with little pushback.

Lawmakers advanced Legislative Bill 16 in a 41-1 vote Monday. The bill includes multiple proposals to ease regulations on obtaining individual work licenses in Nebraska in an attempt to help the states ongoing labor shortage.

This is about removing needless red tape, said State Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln.

LB 16 was originally introduced last year by former Sen. Tom Briese, who has since resigned from the Legislature to take up the post of state treasurer. Conrad, who was a co-sponsor of the bill last year, took ownership of the bill in Brieses absence and made it her priority bill for this session.

Among other things, LB 16 would make it easier for the states licensing boards to issue licenses to experienced workers outside Nebraska and would clarify what criminal offenses would exclude someone from getting a license.

Prior to the session, lawmakers pinned workforce development as one of the top priorities for the year, and Conrad was eyeing LB 16 as one way the Legislature could help to resolve the statewide labor shortages.

As such, most of the lawmakers who spoke in Mondays debate on the bill expressed support for the bill. Multiple supporters spoke on the bills provisions that would help released prisoners obtain licenses, agreeing with Conrads argument that helping that demographic find steady jobs is an effective strategy at reducing recidivism.

The key to parole is a plan, said Sen. Rick Holdcroft of Bellevue.

The bill clarifies that licensing boards can still deny licenses to people with criminal records if their conviction directly conflicts with the work they are seeking, or if they could pose a direct threat to public safety. Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte, who voted to advance the bill, added that lawmakers should consider adding a safeguard for financial crimes as well, such as fraud or embezzlement.

Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Bennington said she has been hesitant to support similar bills in the past, although she also voted for its advancement. She said she is concerned about the possibility of a glut of workers entering Nebraska from states with more lax licensing regulations.

Conrad assured that the Legislature would retain the authority to address such issues if they arose, but added that about 20 other states have already enacted similar policies and havent had any major problems because of it. Sen. John Fredrickson of Omaha noted that while licenses regulations do differ across states, most states still set up high standards.

The Platte Institute, a conservative think tank that has vocally supported LB 16 from its introduction, applauded lawmakers for advancing the bill in a press release Monday. Officials said the bill would pave the way for skilled workers entering Nebraska, therefore aiding the states economy.

LB 16 is more than legislation; its throwing down the welcome mat for Nebraska and tacking our workforce shortages head on, Platte Institute CEO Jim Vokal said in the press release. It embodies our commitment to embracing skilled workers from across the nation and ensuring that past mistakes do not hinder future opportunities.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024
The Appeal Court sitting in Abuja has ruled in favour of Osun state governor, Gboyega Oyetola, in the Osun 2018 governorship election case.

The election tribunal judgment had earlier ruled in favour of Senator Ademola Adeleke winner. However, the Court of Appeal on Thursday nullified the victory.

Oyetola, his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had filed substantive appeals, seeking the setting aside of the decision of the tribunal. Adeleke had also filed a cross-appeal, challenging a portion of the decision.

Reports gathered that the lead judgment was read by Justice Jummai Hannatu Sankey.

There was also a dissenting judgement from one of the judges on the panel, but majority favoured Oyetola.
Lagos State Government on Sunday announced a ban on the usage and distribution of Styrofoam and other single use plastics in the State with immediate effect.

This was announced by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab in a statement he personally signed.

According to Wahab, the decision was reached following the menace which the single use plastics, especially the non-biodegradable Styrofoam was causing on the environment.

He added that most drainage channels in the state are daily clogged up by Styrofoam through its indiscriminate distribution and usage despite the regular cleaning and evacuation of the drains with humongous amounts.

He reiterated that the larger chunk of littering across major roads and markets which LAWMA contends with daily is made up of styrofoams.

The Commissioner added that the State Government cannot fold its hands and watch the continued desecration of its environment especially for a coastal city.

Mr. Wahab has subsequently directed the State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Kick Against Indiscipline to immediately commence the implementation of the ban.

He asked two agencies to clamp down on all the production companies and distribution outlets for Styrofoam in the state to prevent further distribution.

Mr. Wahab explained that the State took the present action, relying on several enabling laws and regulations such as the National Environmental (Sanitation and Waste Control) Regulation 2009 which was established pursuant to NESREA Act that prohibited and specifically ban single use plastic in the country but has not been enforced.

Other laws, according to Wahab, include the 2017 State Environmental Management and Protection Law which states under section 56(I) (y) prevent, stop or discontinue any activity or omission, which is likely to cause harm or has caused harm to human health or the environment.

The Commissioner advised producers, distributors, and end-users of these styrofoam packs to take the ban seriously and find alternatives or risk heavy fines, and other penalties including sealing of their premises.

He warned that they could also be made to bear the costs of the daily cleanup of their products from our roads and drainage channels which runs into tens of millions of Naira daily.

Our state cannot be held hostage to the economic interests of a few wealthy business owners compared to the millions of Lagosians suffering the consequences of indiscriminate dumping of single use plastics and other types of waste, he stated.

According to Wahab, the well-known consequences include climate change, flooding, and diseases like cholera.

He advised consumers and residents to boycott styrofoam packs and single use plastics while imbibing the practice of using reusable food containers and water bottles for their food and drinks.

The convenience of single use plastic comes at a huge cost to the society. We must all make small sacrifices for our collective well-being, Wahab pleaded.
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

The House of Lords in the United Kingdom has been petitioned by Aloy Ejimakor, the Special Counsel to the leader of the embattled Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, over his continued detention in the custody of the Department of State Services, DSS.

In a letter dated 18th January, 2024, seen by Vanguard, Ejimakor highlighted Kanus experience from his rendition from Kenya to Nigeria in 2021.

The lawyer disclosed that Kanu is a self-determination leader and British citizen, who needs the support of the UK lawmakers to regain his freedom, calling on the attention of the International Relations and Defence Committee of the House of Lords.

The letter read in parts, We are Solicitors to above-named British citizen (hereafter: Mr Kanu), on whose behalf and firm Instructions we write and submit this Petition.

For ease of reference, the following is a summary of the background information on this matter:

Mr. Kanu, a British national, is a political activist, advocating for self-determination for the people of Biafra (Eastern Nigeria), with the singular aim of creation of a sovereign State of Biafra from Nigeria through referendum. He is the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) which he founded in 2012 for the purpose of actualization of the creation of the State of Biafra.

The IPOB is registered as a legal entity in the United Kingdom, And it has numerous offices and chapters around the world. It operates in the open as a nonviolent group, including in Nigeria before the Government of Nigeria (GON) unfairly proscribed/declared it in 2017.

As a direct consequence of the said military invasion and the nationwide manhunt for him, Mr Kanu was compelled to flee Nigeria in search of refuge and to save his life. In the course of his involuntary exile, Mr. Kanu, on 12th May 2021, entered the Republic Kenya as a British subject and was legally admitted on his British passport. After his admission, he settled-in at a temporary location in Nairobi, Kenya.

After failing in the objective of killing Mr. Kanu during the September 2017 military operation against him, and being aware that he had taken refuge in Kenya, security forces of the GON hotly pursued Mr. Kanu to Kenya and laid in wait and ambush for him.

On June 19, 2021, Mr. Kanu drove himself to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya on a personal errand. As soon as he pulled to a stop at the parking lot and alighted from his vehicle, several armed security agents working for GON violently accosted and abducted him, handcuffed him, blindfolded him, bundled him in a vehicle and sped away.

The abductors took him to a nondescript private house (not a police station or other official location) somewhere in Nairobi, Kenya and chained him to the floor. Mr. Kanu was not shown any Kenyan arrest warrant or extradition warrant, nor was he informed of the existence of any such warrant. His abductors took turns beating him and torturing him, taunting him and verbally degraded him.

On the eight day (27th June, 2021), his abductors brought him out of the house, put him in a vehicle, drove him straight to the tarmac of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where they evaded Kenyan immigration and forcibly bundled him into a private jet that departed the airport at about 12 noon on same June 27, 2021 and arrived Abuja, Nigeria in the evening of same day.

On arrival in Nigeria, Mr. Kanu was taken to and detained at the facility of the State Security Services (SSS)/Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIS) in Abuja, where he spent the first night, sleeping on the floor with very bright electric bulbs deliberately left on throughout the night.

On 15th December 2023, the Nigerian Supreme Court remitted Mr. Kanus case back to the originating High Court to consider the charges will stand against him. However, the apex Court strongly condemned both the said military attacks against Mr. Kanu and his extraordinary rendition. Till date, however, the case file is yet to be transmitted to the High Court and the said judgment of remittal is yet to be enrolled and certified, thus leading to a situation where Mr. Kanu remains in limbo without any clear prospects of ever being brought to trial since this saga begin almost nine years ago in 2015.

Additionally, Mr. Kanu is gravely ill with three life-threatening conditions, namely a serious heart condition, hypertension and low potassium levels. All of these serious conditions demand specialist medical care and interventions that are not available at the facility where he is being detained or even in Nigeria as a whole. And the GON is fully aware of this.

In view of the foregoing we hereby most respectfully present the following Prayers for the consideration of House of Lords.

I, urgently intervene with His Majestys Government, strongly urging it to promptly make demands on the GON to unconditionally release Mr Kanu from detention and repatriate him to the United Kingdom; and to levy sanctions against the GON if it fails to comply within a reasonable time. It is pertinent to stress the point that extraordinary rendition inherently destroys every prospect for a fair trial in the jurisdiction that levied the rendition.
A suspect, Daniel Iwalokun, terrorising Ala Community in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State has been arrested by the Social Orientation and Safety Corps, codenamed So-Safe Corp with a fake pistol.

A statement issued from the Office of the State Commander of the Corps, Commander (Dr) Soji Ganzallo said the suspect, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State was apprehended by the Ijebu Zonal Operation team of the Corps on January 21.

The statement added that the suspect has been instilling fear and causing unrest in Ala communities with his criminal activities using the fake pistol to achieve his criminal aims.

Ganzallo further noted that following the suspects arrest, preliminary investigations established that he has been operating alone. He further revealed that the suspect and the recovered fake pistol has been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, Obalende Divisional Police Headquarters for further investigation and likely prosecution.


Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has given update on the fire outbreak at Mandilas Building on Broad Street, Lagos.

The governor in a statement highlighted:

Babajide Sanwo-Olu

@jidesanwoolu

I would like to provide an update as relayed by our on-ground teams regarding the warehouse fire at Mandilas Building, Broad Street, Lagos Island.

The fire originated on the 1st floor and got to the 4th. Currently, our brave teams from Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu Fire Stations are actively engaged in firefighting operations.

The cause is yet to be determined, but investigations are underway. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.

READ ALSO: FG clarifies issues over NNPCs US$3.3bn loan

Id like to urge everyone to remain calm as all of our first responders are working hard to bring the situation to a complete halt.

I salute our incredible firefighting teams and other first responders, including security personnel. Your dedication is unmatched as you face this challenge head-on.
The Columbia Spectator, an undergrad student newspaper, reported Columbia University students were allegedly sprayed with a hazardous chemical while attending a pro-Palestinian rally on Jan. 19. According to nearly two dozen students reported a foul smell, physical symptoms, or property damage after the protest.

Spectator interviewed four students, gathered testimonials from eight protest participants anonymously through a restricted Google Form accessible only to LionMail accounts, and examined 12 submissions to Columbia's Students for Justice in Palestine chapter. Among the findings, 18 students noted a foul odor during or after the protest, while 10 experienced physical symptoms like burning eyes, headaches, and nausea-resulting in three seeking medical assistance. It also noted that eight reported damage to their personal belongings.

Two students expressed concerns about their safety on campus during interviews with Spectator, fearing that incidents like this may continue. Public Safety "is investigating incidents reported in connection with Friday's protest that are of great concern," according to a Sunday evening statement from the department. The department received an initial complaint on Friday night and additional complaints on Sunday, according to the statement, and "has been actively working with local and federal authorities in this investigation, with the NYPD taking a lead role."

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) today condemned the reported use of a foul-smelling chemical agent suspected to be the product "Skunk" during a pro-Palestine protest.

CAIR elaborated on "Skunk" by explaining that it's a chemical invented by Israeli firm Odortec and first used by the Israeli military against demonstrators in the occupied West Bank in 2008. It is most often used by the Israeli occupation forces as a form of collective punishment against Palestinians for daring to protest. It has since been developed by Mistral, a US company, and is used by police departments.

In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher said:

"Once again, we are witnessing the suppression and silencing of pro-Palestinian voices on campus. SJP and JVP are dedicated to holding institutions, including institutions of higher learning, to account for their support of Israeli apartheid and genocide of the people of Gaza. This brave, principled stance seems to bother the administration of Columbia University. We stand in solidarity with them and call on the university to stop this attack on constitutionally protected free speech."

Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voices for Peace released a joint statement via their Instagram platforms stating they've identified two of the perpetrators, and have confirmation that both are former Israeli soldiers and current Columbia students. They were wearing fake keffiyehs to blend in with the crowd before spraying protesters discreetly. Their post goes on to say, "So far, Columbia has done absolutely nothing about the hundreds of reports of unrelenting harassment that pro-Palestine students have been facing, not just from other students but from a certain Columbia faculty member. However, this is the imported use of an illegal weapon. This is a hate crime that has permanently destroyed the property of dozens of students."

They're demanding Columbia launch an investigation immediately and take action against the guilty parties. They are also demanding that Columbia start taking the constant hateful attacks on its students seriously before someone is killed.
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday nullified the N800 billion 2024 budget passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly and signed into law by Governor Simi Fubara.

The decision throws the states financial plan into uncertainty amid an ongoing political dispute.

Governor Fubara presented the N800 billion Appropriation Bill in December to a faction of the state assembly composed of only four lawmakers.

This followed a split within the assembly when 27 members loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike attempted to impeach Fubara, leading to the formation of two rival groups.

READ ALSO: Supreme Court reserves judgment on Rivers gov election

Despite the limited quorum, the faction loyal to Fubara passed the budget, prompting legal challenges from the Wike-aligned group. In its ruling on Monday,the Federal High Court declared the budget invalid, citing the lack of a legally constituted quorum for its passage.

The presiding judge, James Omotosho, held that everything done by the four lawmakers loyal to Governor Siminalayi was null and void.

The court also recognised Amaewhule as the speaker of the state assembly.

The courts decision leaves the Rivers State government without a valid budget for 2024, potentially impacting essential services and development projects. It also adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing political rift within the state assembly, raising concerns about legislative paralysis and further delays in budget execution.
The Ogun State Government has initiated the installation of solar-powered street lights to enhance citizen safety and security, National Daily Newspaper gathered.

Oluwafemi Omisanjo, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Energy Matters, shared the information with reporters in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Sunday

The governments move is coming on the heels of recent arrests of vandals stealing street light cables and other accessories along the Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Expressway by security agents, with one of the criminals nabbed for stealing a transformer.

Commenting on the development, National Daily Newspaper gathered that Omisanjo noted that persistent vandalism of government assets, especially street lights on the highways across the state, forced the current administration to seek alternatives to the generator-powered street lights.

He stated that Governor Dapo Abioduns administration decided to introduce a more secure and sustainable solution, stressing that a pilot scheme of the solar-powered streetlight had begun in some parts of Abeokuta.

ALSO READ : Kano: No baby was kidnapped under our care  Hospital management

Omisanjo made it clear that the government would replace the street lights on the Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Expressway with a solar-powered system.

He stated further that the government is also initiating a full-scale analysis of the planned deployment of the newly introduced solar-powered street lights to replace the current ones across the state.

Very soon, the good people of Ogun State will begin to see and feel the impact of this solution, National Daily Newspaper gathered.

We assure them of their security and safety in all parts of the state, he said.
Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has highlighted a significant disconnect between the elected officials and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

In an interview on Channels Television, the lawmaker, elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), expressed frustration, stating, I have WhatsApp messages; I have written him one or two letters, and I dont get any response.

Regarding the escalating insecurity in the nations capital, Senator Ireti pointed out a potential root cause. I would say without exaggerating that maybe a quarter of the Police Force are guarding VIP, which is not their primary function, she stated. Attempting to draw attention to the issue, she mentioned, A little bit earlier, I tried to draw their attention (security operatives), and I was told that it was exaggerated.

The FCT is currently facing security challenges, with kidnappers targeting victims and taking them to various forests around Abuja, Kaduna, Niger, and other surrounding states.

The lawmaker hinted at the Senates plans to summon Minister Nyesom Wike over the situation.
The family of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a former pupil of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State, has announced the burial arrangements for their deceased son, who tragically passed away on November 30, 2021.

Sylvester was allegedly tortured and injured by some senior students of the college who purportedly intended to initiate him into a cult group.

In a statement made available to journalists on Monday morning, the family disclosed that Sylvester would be laid to rest on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Ogbe-Ijaw Warri Kingdom in Delta State. The statement highlighted the familys continued quest for justice in the matter.

Exactly two years ago, precisely on November 30, 2021, the death of our 12-year-old son, Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a pupil of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos State, was announced in controversial circumstances, after he was tortured to death by some senior students who wanted to initiate him into a cult group, and till date we as a family have yet to get justice in the matter, the family stated.

The familys statement reflected on Sylvesters remarkable qualities, describing him as a young mind with exceptional intellect and maturity beyond his years. The family implored everyone to honor Sylvesters memory by reflecting on the bright spirit that enriched their lives and celebrating the intellect that radiated from his young mind.

As we continue to mourn our son, we as a family implore everyone to honour Sylvesters memory by reflecting on the bright spirit that enriched their lives and celebrate the intellect that radiated from his young mind. As the community mourns the loss of this promising scholar, we will continue to demand justice for our beloved son who was murdered in cold blood by fellow students, the familys statement concluded.
The Kano State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the Kwankwasiyya Movement in the state of orchestrating a group of youths, purportedly APC members, to call for the removal of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the national chairman of the party.

The youth groups, allegedly sponsored by Kwankwasiyya, urged President Bola Tinubu to dismiss Ganduje for his perceived failure in delivering Kano State to the party during the last governorship election. Sadiq Ali Sango, the groups chairman, also appealed to the President to welcome Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) into the APC.

We are calling on Kwankwaso to join APC; we are ready to support and work with him for the betterment of our dear state and Nigeria at large, said Sango.

In response, Shehu Maigari, the Deputy Chairman of APC in the state, denied the existence of any youth group within the APC calling for Gandujes removal. He alleged that the groups were sponsored by the Kwankwasiyya Movement, suggesting a motive to join or influence the APC after a previous conflict.

Abdul Zulu, an aide to Ganduje, dismissed the allegation, asserting that Sango, the leader of the group, is a Kwankwasiyya Movement member. The authenticity of a picture showing Sango with Kwankwaso has not been independently verified.

Hashim Dungurawa, chairman of the NNPP in Kano and a Kwankwasiyya Movement member, distanced his group from the APC dispute, emphasizing that they had no involvement.

The Kano Integrity Block, another group, urged Nigerians to disregard calls by sponsored youths claiming to be APC members advocating for Gandujes removal. In a statement, they described the youths as politically motivated groups seeking to tarnish the efforts of APCs national chairman.

Interest groups in the North Central region were also reportedly contemplating efforts to oust Ganduje from the national chairmanship position, expressing dissatisfaction with the alleged sidelining of the region after Senator Abdullahi Adamus resignation.
Obi Aguocha, the member of the House of Representatives for Umuahia North/Umuahia South/Ikwuano Federal Constituency of Abia State has lashed out former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Aguocha slammed Buhari for contemplating eliminating Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.

Buharis thoughts about Nnamdi Kanu were conveyed in a new book written by his former aide, Femi Adesina.

In the book, Adesina said that there was an option of eliminating Kanu, quoting the former President as saying bringing Kanu back to face trial in Nigeria was a favour.

Aguocha, in a statement made available to reporters in Abuja on Monday, said the remarks by Buhari regarding Kanus handling are deeply concerning.

The lawmaker said that suggesting that the elimination of a citizen was an option, even in retrospect, is alarming and raises serious questions about the commitment to the rule of law and human rights.

Aguocha said: The suggestion of elimination as a viable option undermines the principles of justice and due process.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in its recent judgement, roundedly condemned Buharis government on the attack on the home of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and also his rendition from Kenya.

For the former President to summarily suggest that being subjected to such illegality was a favour for a citizen is totally reckless and reeks of all things personal vendetta, and so far from the high standards of civility expected from a leader.

President Buhari should rather come clean by confessing all he used his office to do to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the South East.

Nobody, including Femi Adesina and his principal, should play God in respect of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. There is an inordinate obsession with the former president seeing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in detention because of his prejudice. 
Gov Abdullahi Ganduje

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State has accused the Kwankwasiyya Movement in the state of sponsoring a group of youths to call for the sack of its National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.

On Sunday, a group of youths called on President Bola Tinubu to sack Ganduje for his alleged failure to deliver Kano State to the party in the last governorship election.

While briefing journalists in Kano, the chairman of the youth group, Sadiq Ali Sango, also called on Tinubu to extend a hand of fellowship to the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to join APC.

The group described Kwankwaso as a man of integrity, vision, and courage who has made immense contributions to the development and progress of Kano State and the nation at large.

In response, the deputy chairman of APC in the state, Shehu Maigari, in an interview with Daily Trust, said the group was sponsored by the Kwankwasiyya Movement, stressing that the party does not have a group of youth calling for the sack of Gaduje.

He said, An English proverb says no smoke without fire and no action without a cause. The so-called APC youth group that is agitating for these negative issues is not of APC members. As far as APC is concerned, we dont have a recognised body of that nature.

They are sponsored by the Kwankwasiyya, and they are from the Kwankwasiyya group, and they are working for them. Those that sponsored them are the people now trying to align or to bulldoze themselves into APC after waging a serious war against the party.

Similarly, an aide to Ganduje, Abdul Zulu, debunked the groups allegations, alleging that Sango, the leader of the group, is a member of the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

Also reacting, the NNPP chairman in Kano and leading member of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Hashim Dungurawa, denied knowledge of the APC group but saluted their courage.

He said, Those youth are true democrats because looking at what is going on at APC, despite not being my party, it is not good for democracy. Its a party where dictatorship is being put in place and so many things. I doubt their way of doing things will yield result for any party.

I am also calling on the president to definitely do something on this. We have nothing to do with APC; we didnt sponsor anybody to do whatever.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is meeting with the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Aso Rock.

As of the time of filing this report, the details of the meeting is unknown.

The meeting is coming days after President Tinubu met with members of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN) at the State House in Abuja.

This meeting comes just two days after SCSNs President, Sheikh Abdur-Rasheed Hadiyyatullah, publicly expressed regret for supporting the APCs same-faith ticket in the 2023 election.

Recall thah Sheikh Hadiyyatullah had sparked a fresh debate about the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election.

In an interview with journalists in Abuja, he stated that the same-faith ticket, which played a pivotal role in President Tinubus election victory, has not led to any positive changes in the lives of Nigerians.
Olorunnimbe Mamora

Ex-Minister of Health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, has accused state governors of destroying Local Government administration in Nigeria.

According to him, they destroyed it by imposing caretaker chairmen on the people at the grassroots.

Mamora stated this in an interview on Channels Television on Friday.

He said, If I would be very frank, the governors destroyed the local governments. Thats the truth. Dont forget, I was very much involved. Local government chairmen were elected under Abdulsalami Abubakar in 1998 with a three-year tenure which should have terminated in 2001;

But towards the end of the termination of the tenure, the local government chairmen under the aegis of ALGON started making moves to the National Assembly, then headed by Anyim Pius Anyim as Senate President and Ghali Naaaba (of blessed memory) as the Speaker of the House.

They (LG chairmen) were asking for the extension of their tenure to be four years in line with the state and the federal. That was the beginning.

Speaking further, Mamora, who was the chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in 2001, said the move was challenged because Section 7 of the Constitution has placed everything in the local governments under the state through laws made by the state house of assembly.



We challenged it because it was like trying to usurp the powers of the state houses of assembly, he added.

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly between June 1999 and June 2003 said the National Assembly went ahead with the bill to make local government chairmen tenured for four years, and he and his then colleague-speakers went to court.

While the case was then in court because of the interest of the governors, they came in to join, and because they joined, the case was taken straight to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court ruled that the National Assembly had no business in determining the tenure.

Then President Olusegun Obasanjo invited us speakers to the Villa and appealed to us because their tenure was about to end and new local government chairmen were yet to be elected, he added.
In his judgment on Monday, Justice Ekwo upheld the the case of the plaintiffs, the Action Peoples Party and its Deputy National Chairman, Mr. Uche Nnadi, to the effect that Nwosus governorship candidature was null and void on the grounds of multiplicity of nominations as the governorship candidate of both the APC and AA.

This came as Nwosu, a son-in-law to the immediate-past governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, is currently pursuing an election petition at the states Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, as the candidate of Action Alliance, challenging the victory of the Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Emeka Ihedioha, in the March 11, 2019 poll.

Justice Inyang Ekwo voided Nwosus candidacy on the grounds of double nomination by two political parties, the All Progressives Congress and the Action Alliance, in violation of section 37 of the Electoral Act.

According to Punch Metro, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission to remove the name of Uche Nwosu as a governorship candidate in the last election held in Imo State

Justice Ekwo declared that the nomination of Nwosu by AA as a governorship candidate is invalid, null and void, having been made at the pendency of similar nomination of the 2nd defendant (Nwosu) by the All Progressives Congress for the same position.

The judge noted that Nwosu affirmed to be the APCs governorship candidate in his statement on oath sworn before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.

The judge similarly declared that Nwosu has not been validly nominated by the 3rd defendant (AA) as its governorship candidate for the Imo State governorship election having been made at the pendency of the order of Justice Valentine Ashi of the Abuja High Court recognising the 2nd defendant as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the Imo State 2019 governorship election.

He noted that Nwosu participated in the APCs primary held on October 6, 2018 and was subsequently nominated as the partys governorship candidate.

While laying claim to the APCs governorship ticket, amidst stiff opposition from members of the party, he was said to have on October 9, 2018, obtained an order of Justice Valentine Ashi (now deceased) of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, recognising him as the valid candidate of the party.

In the midst of this, Nwosu was also offered the ticket of the AA.

Delivering judgment on the plaintiffs case on Monday, Justice Ekwo said, There is no controversy that, on October 6, 2018, the 2nd defendant (Nwosu) had himself nominated as the governorship candidate of the APC.

Furthermore, there is no controversy that, to secure his nomination by the APC, the 2nd defendant on October 9, 2019, obtained an order of the High Court of the Federal High Court which subsists having not been set aside.

Justice Ekwo held that Nwosu, through his lawyers, failed to offer any valid rebuttal to the plaintiffs evidence that he was nominated by both the APC and the AA, while INEC filed no papers in the case.

The judge ruled, It is illegal in the eyes of the law. No one is allowed to benefit from an illegal act.

The 2nd defendant allowed himself to be nominated by the APC and the 3rd defendant (AA).

He, therefore, said, It is hereby declared that the nomination of the 2nd defendant by the All Progressives Congress and Action Alliance, the 3rd defendant, is invalid, null and void and constitute a violation of section 37 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended).

An order of this honourable court is hereby made directing the 1st defendant (INEC) to remove the name of the 2nd defendant (Nwosu) as the governorship of the 3rd defendant (AA) in the 2019 Imo State governorship election for multiple nomination in violation of the provision of section 37 of the Electoral Act 2018 (as amended).

An order of this honourable court is hereby made restraining the 1st defendant (INEC) from recognising the 2nd defendant (Nwosu) as the governorship of the 3rd defendant (AA) and/or any other political party for the 2019 Imo State governorship election

An order of this honourable court is hereby made restraining the 1st defendant (INEC) from giving value to any act done in pursuance of the 2nd defendant purported candidature of the 3rd defendant (AA) and/or any other political party in the 2019 Imo State governorship election.

The judge earlier dismissed Nwosus preliminary objection and picked holes in the defence he and the AA separately filed against the substantive suit.

Dismissing the preliminary objection, Justice Ekwo ruled that the provision section 285(9) of the Constitution which stipulates that a pre-election case must be filed within 14 days of the occurrence of the event being complained of, was not applicable to the case.

The plaintiffs, APP and Nnadi, filed their suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/235/2019 on February 27, 2019.

But Justice Ekwo held that the intention of section 285(9) of the Constitution cited by Nwosus legal team was not to make the court to gloss over all acts prohibited by the Electoral Act.

He added, It will mean that section 285(9) of the Constitution is capable, by effect, of allowing a void, illegal or prohibited act to stand and the person behind the act to benefit from the act that is void ab initio.

It must be said that an illegal or prohibited act does not become legal by virtue of being time-barred, the judge added.

He also ruled that the suit was not an abuse of court processes since it was filed to seek an interpretation of the provision of the Electoral Act.

He also held that by virtue of the provision of section 37 of the Electoral Act, the plaintiffs, despite that they did not participate in the election, possessed the locus standi (legal right) to file their suit.
Claire Hao is a Hearst Fellow for the Houston Chronicle's business desk, where she is covering electricity, renewable energy and the Texas power grid. She also spends one day a week covering breaking and trending news. Claire can be reached at claire.hao@houstonchronicle.com.

Claire spent her first-year fellowship rotation on the climate and environment team of The San Francisco Chronicle. She has previously interned on the news desks of Bloomberg Law and The Chicago Tribune as well as on the editorial board of The Washington Post.

She is a 2022 graduate of the University of Michigan, where she was the 2021 editor-in-chief of her college paper The Michigan Daily.
Faisal Maina, the son of embattled former chairman of the Pension Reforms Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina has appeared in court.





Faisal Maina in court yesterday

A Federal High Court, Abuja, on Friday, 25th October 2019 ordered the remand of the embattled former chairman of the Pension Reforms Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, in prison custody.

Justice Okon Abang granted the remand order following a request by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission after he pleaded not guilty to the 12 counts.

The judge consequently adjourned untill October 30 for trial and November 19 for suitability of his application for bail filed before arraignment.

Maina is facing charges of money laundering, operating fictitious bank accounts and fraud.





Abdulrasheed Maina in court yesterday
One of the sources lamented that while the Federal Government had announced the total lockdown of Lagos, Abuja and Ogun, some foreigners not tagged essential were still allowed to fly into the country.

The source said: I think this is very unfortunate. How can you allow foreigners to enter the country without going through the usual test screening despite the high rate of COVID-19 in the country?

Someone said the Americans would be isolated in Calabar for 14 days. I dont think that is enough excuse for them to pass through the Lagos airport without screening at the airport. I just hope everyone is save in this country because some people have exhibited selfishness in their approach.

It would be recalled that America is battling to overcome the deadly virus with high number of deaths recorded daily in the North American country, while new cases are daily recorded.

Meanwhile, some European countries are evacuating their citizens from Nigeria because of the high rate of the virus in the country.

For instance, Air France last Thursday evacuated 378 European nationals from Nigeria through the Lagos airport, while Air Peace on Friday operated a charter flight to Israel with Israeli nationals who left the country.
The victims

Their conditions were as awful as they were pathetic. Their skins were decorated with wounds from lashes and the heavy chains with which their hands and legs were shackled. Their foods were prepared in the most unhygienic conditions and should only be fit only for pigs. They are not only insipid; they are, in most cases, rotten.

Their inhuman conditions were compounded by the heat in the male ward, which made it difficult to breathe and exposed the hapless inmates to infectious diseases. It was clearly a scene depicting mans inhumanity to fellow man.

Those were the conditions of the 54 male and female inmates of an illegal correctional centre in Gusau, Zamfara State, busted by security agents on Tuesday.

Run by one Malam Iliyasu Abdullahi Gamagiwa, the 30-year-old centre was said to have got most of its inmates enrolled by their parents or guardians for various acts the parents or guardians claimed they were fed up with.

Zamfara State governor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, had ordered a crackdown on the illegal correctional centre, which was effected on Tuesday afternoon. He had got wind of the existence of the centre and immediately ordered his Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaji Mohammed Saddiq Maiturare, to lead a team of security operatives to the place.

On arrival, no fewer than 54 male and female inmates were found in the squalid house that served as the centre. Most of the inmates were found chained and subjected to all manner of inhuman treatments.

Awwal Idris, an 11-year-old inmate, who said he was brought to the centre all the way from Kaduna State, explained that he was the one appointed to share food to the other detained pupils and also took part in preparing the foods.

Explaining why he was brought to the centre, Idris said he was in the habit of stealing petty things from neighbours and his parents got fed up with it. They told him that he would be travelling with a relative, only to find himself enrolled in the camp on arrival in Gusau.

Food, according most of the students at the centre, is always served late. Breakfast according to Farida, who was brought in from the Gusau metropolis, is served around 12 pm. She said they were being fed with bad food twice a day, despite a monthly payment of N17,500 by every inmate.

Farida, 24, said her uncle brought her to the centre because he considered her to be stubborn, creating division in the family and causing her parents to be at loggerheads always. The schools certificate holder recalled that whenever she was reprimanded by her mother, her father would rise in her defence and almost divorced her mother because of her.

Asked what she would do after her release, she said: I am going to stop misbehaving and get married once I get a suitor.



It was gathered many of the parents and guardians of the inmates have long abandoned them because of the fees they had to pay the proprietor.

It was also gathered that in some cases, the proprietor himself instructed the parents to stop visiting their children.

In the male ward, one of the inmates, 50-year-old Aminu Ibrahim, a father of one, alleged that at times, the inmates were down with stomachache and would vomit because of the unpalatable nature of the foods that were served them; an allegation the proprietor disputed.

Ibrahim recalled that he took a wife from a community in Niger State, but she has since packed her belongings and returned to her parents. He said he was a big time businessman before he became bankrupt. It was at this stage, according to him, that his elders lured him to the camp because they believed he had become addicted to hard drugs.

A female inmate, Zainab Sani, had spent six months with chains in both legs, with wounds inflicted on her back, which she said she got from the beatings by the teachers in the camp.

She said she was brought to the camp by her parents from Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State because they were fed up with her associating with male friends and receiving phone calls from them.

Another female inmate, Nana Firdausi, was arrested by the Hisbah Command in Kano and handed over to the Hisbah Command in Gusau who in collaboration with her parents took her to the camp.

Answering questions before he was whisked away in a police Hilux van, Abdullahi said he was glad that the press had gotten hold of the news about his school, which he said would make him famous.

He asked the state government to assist him and provide the necessary structures for him to continue with what he had been doing for 30 years to enable him tame naughty and prodigal children.

Abdullahi said: They are all delinquents, truants and wayward people. Some of them are thieves, some of them take hard drugs and some of them even beat their parents. Ours is to correct them.

I have a personal doctor for them; a trained doctor from Yeriman Bakura Hospital in Gusau, who is assigned by me to be their physician. His name is Doctor Lukman. He is here whenever the need for him arises and even when my students are without any ailment.

He said he had been running the camp as an almajiri school for more than 30 years, saying that his students consisted mainly of recalcitrant or wayward people and others with criminal tendencies.

He boasted of his ability to instill and inculcate morality in them with teachings from the Quran. Abdullahi said he was an expert in healing cigarette and Indian hemp smokers by giving them a special concoction which they take once in a month.

By taking the concoction, he said, the inmate would vomit all the rot he or she has been inhaling from weeds and other hard drugs, which, according to him, is a sign that the medication has worked and they would not want use hard drugs when they are fully cured and discharged.

The security operatives immediately released the inmates and took them to the state remand home where they were fed before next line of action to rehabilitate and reunite them with their families.

Governor Matawalle has since ordered the closure of the centre as well as the prosecution of its operators.

***

Source: The Nation
Tragedy struck in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Saturday afternoon during the conduct of the governorship and House of Assembly election, when a serving member of House of Representatives, Mr. Temitope Olatoye, representing Lagelu/Akinyele Federal Constituency, was shot dead.

Olatoye, fondly called Sugar, who was a member of Oyo State House of Assembly from 2011 to 2015, was reportedly shot in the head. The bullet was said to have hit one of his eyes and left him badly injured.

He was a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State until he left the party in the last quarter of 2018 when he lost the Oyo Central senatorial ticket to a former Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin, who is now a senator-elect. He defected to Action Democratic Party (ADP), where he picked the ticket, contested the February 23 election and lost.

The federal lawmaker was said to have run into an ambush laid for him by his attackers when he was returning from his village, Onigbodogi in Lagelu Local Government Area, where he had gone to vote.

Sunday Sun gathered that there was an epic battle between Olatoye and his attackers, as many people from both sides were reportedly killed.

After the incident, he was reportedly rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, where he was admitted in the Accident and Emergency Unit.

The Head, Public Relations Unit of UCH, Mr. Toye Akinrinlola, however, confirmed the death of Olatoye to journalists, saying that medical practitioners battled to save his life.

One of his Olatoyes aides, who preferred anonymity, said: Sugar was badly injured, though he was also courageous to defend himself very well. He was shot in the eye and had been taken to the accident and emergency unit of UCH.

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EUREKA  Eureka residents were asked this weekend to conserve water and boil water before use, after a break in a main service line was discovered Friday.

In a Sunday telephone interview, Mayor Eric Lind said around 6:30 p.m. Friday, city crews discovered an 8-inch water main had broken outside of Eurekas sewer plant. He said those responding crews worked tirelessly through the night to repair the break, with help from a contractor.

Lind said they dont know the exact cause of the break, but cold weather certainly played a factor.

While some parts of the city had extremely low pressure or no water for a few hours, the mayor said homes on Moody Street and Adams Road were out the longest.

Statements issued by Lind on Facebook had asked city residents to conserve water in the hours after the water main break emerged. The mayor later issued a notice that South Main Street in Eureka, also Illinois Route 117, was closed during repairs and detouring traffic to the west via Lake Road. The main street reopened at 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

All water services were restored by 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Lind said, but a boil order is active for several areas in Eureka. Those areas covered by the order include Redbud Lane; Pepper Tree Lane; Adams Road; Moody Street; James Street from Henry Street to Lister Lane, including the College Park Duplexes on Dickenson Drive, Lister Lane, University Circle and Logsdon Court; and the 1400 block of County Road 800 North.

Lind said he hopes the boil order will be cleared by Monday or Tuesday, but that's pending approval from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. He said water samples were sent to the IEPA for testing.

The mayor encouraged people to sign up for text messages updates on the citys website at eurekaillinois.net, or by texting Eureka to 309-324-5400.

Photos: Deer Creek-Mackinaw girls vs Eureka during the McLean County/HOIC Tournament championship
NORMAL  Julia Howell said she loves animals of all shapes and sizes.

She also loves to volunteer, she said, and grew up going to charity events.

And thats why the 24-year-old was one of several staff members with the K-9 Country Club at 414 Lumbertown Road in Normal who volunteered Sunday to wash dogs for charity.

For an event titled "Dog Wash for a Cause," the dog day care, boarding and grooming center offered Sunday a $30 dog wash and nail trim, with $20 of each wash earmarked for donation to Wishbone Canine Rescue in Normal.

A Facebook event was listed by the club in early January, and all 25 spots were filled by Thursday. Assistant Manager Grace Moore organized the event, and said the response was so good they were still getting calls for openings on Sunday morning.

Moore said shes a very animal-oriented person, and being able to support rescues is important to her. She said shes involved in helping other community animal rescues too, and many of their customers have adopted dogs from Wishbone Canine Rescue.

K-9 Country Club typically takes grooming appointments on Mondays through Fridays; runs a dog day care on weekdays and Saturdays; and boards cats and dogs seven days a week.

Since the clubs operations are scaled backed on Sundays, and because they employ skilled groomers, Moore said they choose dog washing as charity work. She said eight staff members, including herself, pitched in on dog washing and nail trimming duties on a volunteer basis.

She said they had 25 dogs to wash in only three hours on Sunday. Moore said she plans to repeat the charity event each month and hopes to increase appointment capacity for the next round; a recipient organization has not yet been finalized for February.

Moore said the club also houses adoptable pets from shelters and elsewhere. As of Sunday, a cat and three kittens were still up for adoption from the club, plus a German shepherd named Ronnie that the club is fostering for McLean County Animal Control.

Howell said Daisey, a 2-year-old Maltese poodle puppy, was one of her favorite dogs she washed that day. Daisey was also favored by club staffer Paulina Bakala.

When asked why she volunteered, Bakala said she has extra time on the weekends, so, why not?

Faith Krizel is another assistant manager for the club; she also instructs a puppy and obedience training program. She said shes passionate about helping animals.

Out of all the dogs she'd washed by late Sunday morning, Krizel said a Llewellin (English) setter dog named Bandit was the most chill.

Hes just taking it all in, she said, while scrubbing the black-and-white furred pup.

The club is also working to plan a fun dog walk in mid-April at Miller Park, Krizel said.

Bandits caretaker is Dee Wilson, of Bloomington. Wilson said she loved the clubs charity event and noted both of her dogs  including Bandit  came from Wishbone.

Bandit was rehomed with Wilson because one of her friends fostered dogs for Wishbone and sent her pictures, she said. Wilson said Wishbone keeps a good network of people who foster dogs.

That includes her friend, who she said fell in love with her foster dogs.

To keep up with K-9 Country Club and its future events, visit k-9countryclub.net, follow the business on Facebook at facebook.com/K9CountryClubInc, or call 309-451-3647.

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Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan University, Heartland Community College and Eureka College all announced they would close early Monday.

Illinois State closed at noon, and all classes  whether in-person, online or hybrid  that began at noon or after were canceled. The university is expected to resume normal operations at 7 a.m. Tuesday.

Illinois Wesleyan closed at 1 p.m. Monday and is slated to reopen at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Heartland's Normal campus closed at 1 p.m. Monday. Officials had announced closures for the Pontiac and Lincoln locations earlier in the morning.

Eureka College was closed shortly after 7 a.m. Monday, and planned to hold remote classes that day. The college encouraged students to check their email for updates on dining hours and professor messages.

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Im 32, and I havent worked a real (full-time) job since I was 23 and finished my two-year commitment with Teach for America. Since 2013, Ive piecemealed together part-time jobs that include private tutor, substitute teacher, fitness instructor, story time program leader and freelance writer.

For my generation, this trajectory isnt unusual: 45% of all freelancers are millennials, and almost half of all working millennials are freelancing. Now, with a resume that reads like a 2010s economists cautionary tale, Im colliding with the problems of part-time employment as a norm.

In 2013, after two years teaching seventh-grade writing, I decided to apply for masters programs and took on my first part-time gigs as a tutor and substitute teacher. At the time I didnt see myself as underemployed a dreaded condition that parents, economists and journalists cautioned against (and which then applied to almost 20% of millennials). I did consider following my moms footsteps to law school. But, in line with many of my peers seeking fulfilling work, I ultimately chose to pursue my dream of being a writer. I was still on one of my parents health insurance thanks to Obamacare, I had saved money while living at home during my time with Teach for America, and I knew I could keep working part-time while in school full-time to get my masters degree in creative writing.

I began teaching fitness classes in addition to tutoring. Gigging still felt normal and innocuous. I wasnt even deterred when I got my first IRS notification that I owed the government more taxes, unaware of the costs of being self-employed. I bemoaned my quarterly payment to the IRS, but I readjusted for it. I even felt responsible when I made my first very small, tax-deductible IRA contribution (which I could only afford because I still lived at home). At 24, not having paid leave, a 401k or the stability that comes with a salary felt normal, especially among most of my friends who were also in graduate school.

But a year later, I became a primary caretaker. Giggings perks of flexibility and control became necessities when my mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Working multiple part-time jobs was the only way I could care for her, stay in school and earn money. I helped her with daily tasks at home, managed her treatment schedule and attended every doctors appointment, chemo treatment, scan and procedure.

That was only possible because I made my own schedule. I could teach a Pure Barre class at 5 or 6 a.m. (sometimes both), take my mom to chemo for her eight-hour infusion at 8 a.m., tutor in the afternoons and complete my coursework in the evenings.

During this period I married my husband, so I moved onto his health insurance before I turned 26, making use of the benefits he received with his full-time job at a big company. Not long after, I got pregnant. To maintain some income, I resumed tutoring just weeks after my daughter was born, but at that point postpartum I still couldnt exercise, let alone teach a fitness class. So my two part-time jobs winnowed to one.

Simultaneously, my moms health rapidly declined. I was sandwiched between taking care of a baby, being present for my mom and working with my students  trapped between the broken caregiving options in the U.S. Even after my mom died, and my focus shifted to my baby, it was hard to balance child care and work, especially without a grandparent regularly around to help mitigate the cost of a babysitter or fill in when one canceled. Once my daughter started preschool, that complicated our schedules with sick days, early-afternoon dismissal times, school holidays and summer break.

If my 20s were proof of our countrys unsustainable workforce model and child-care and elder-care crises, the pandemic showed how quickly those issues could upend lives. In March 2020, my daughters preschool closed, and I gave birth to my son. Like too many millennial women, I was forced to leave the workforce entirely to take care of them. It took more than two years before I could manage another part-time job as a freelance writer.

By then, I was too grateful for a gig to complain about the hollow foundation underpinning my work: the inconsistency, low and slow pay, instability and lack of benefits. Instead I continued to freelance, and Ive occasionally returned to tutoring. I also found a part-time job working as the story time lady at my local bookstore, where I at least knew Id get a regular paycheck, albeit a small one, every other Friday.

Financially, I need the higher, regular pay and benefits that come with a salaried, full-time job. But its hard to find a good job, and if I get one, I dont know how Ill balance it with my responsibilities as a mom of young children in a country in which women like me often function as the social security net  the caretakers of the sick, the primary parents of the children. Even though I love my life, I wish I wasnt working multiple part-time jobs. I wish our home life didnt depend on my having the flexibility to deal with both small and urgent needs all the time.

Last year, 64 million people (4 million more than the year before) worked freelance in the gig economy. When 38% of our workforce is in this situation  and contributing $1.3 trillion in annual earnings to the economy  the country has a responsibility to make that work more sustainable. Our peer countries have done that by widely providing workers support, such as family caregiving leave, parental leave (including guaranteed paid maternity leave), pension credits for caregivers, sick leave and paid vacation; some are offering or considering income protections for self-employed workers.

This month, the Department of Labor issued a rule that companies have to treat some workers as employees, not independent contractors, based on new criteria meant to ensure people are being properly compensated. While that is a step forward, its not enough (and its likely to face lawsuits). Our country needs much bigger changes to make participating in the gig economy a viable, long-term choice instead of the all-consuming sinkhole Im not sure Ill ever escape.
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...

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Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Dr Oduro Osae, has urged the citizenry to change their attitudes towards local government elections since they reside in a local government area.



He explained that it is the local government that determines the kinds of structures that should be put in the communities, works on roads, security and we must show keen interest in the system to accelerate growth and development, he stressed.



If you are not interested in your local government and are interested in only the national government you are doing a great disservice to yourself, he lamented and expressed disappointment over low turnout at just ended district level elections, there are four people who are important in democracy and development, which are unit committee member, assembly member, Member of Parliament and the president.



If we are not interested in getting good leaders to represent us in the four categories, development will delay, we must be interested, it is not just enough to vote for assembly and unit committee members, but after we voted, hold them accountable and make sure they deliver, let us appreciate we voted for them, will be watching their activities closely and ensure they bring growth and development to the citizenry.



We should also be interested in what assemblies do, because they collect our moneys in form of taxes meant for developing our areas, be active citizens and not passive citizen,



Once elected, if any assembly member is seen not to perform to the satisfaction of his or her people, they can recall him or her, through petitioning the Electoral Commissioner who will arrange for new assembly member, technically, assembly members do not have common funds to carry out developmental projects, but they lobby and facilitate development, people should not have higher expectations assembly member can construct a school.



All assembly members are resourced with motor bikes to serve their communities and attend meetings while sitting and transport allowances are given to them when they attend assembly meetings, Dr Osae indicated.











Source: The Ghanaian Times









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A third grader works on a computer project in an English Language Arts class at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Grace Tran, left, talks with Sharon Rob, counselor, as she and other fifth graders participate in the Lunch Bunch, a counseling group, at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

More than half of schools in Greater Houston and two-thirds of those in Houston ISD saw their performance fall in the latest Children at Risk rankings, disrupting nearly two decades of progress, the nonprofits researchers say.

Data released by the education research and advocacy nonprofit shows that 55% of Houston-area schools scored lower on the nonprofits annual rankings in 2023 than they did in 2022. The declines were even more pronounced in Houston ISD, where scores dropped at over 75% of schools ranked this year.

Children at Risk President and CEO Bob Sanborn says the numbers reflect a troubling departure from a trend that has otherwise seen public schools gradually improve over the last two decades, especially for low-income families who now have more options for their childrens education.

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Nineteen years ago, if you were (a low-income) kid, the chances of you going to a school that was doing pretty well was remote, Sanborn said. Every year since, weve seen things get a little bit better  and this is the first time that weve seen that sort of stop. You can say it plateaued, but for many kids, the performance has gone down.

Bob Sanborn, President & CEO of Children at Risk on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at Catholic Charities in Houston. Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Children at Risk uses a similar methodology to that employed by the Texas Education Agency for the annual evaluations it has released for the last 19 years, with a few key differences. Both bodies use similar metrics  student achievement, growth and performance relative to poverty levels, with college readiness added for high schools  but Children at Risk weighs them evenly, whereas the TEA picks between achievement and growth and weighed the higher of the two at 70%.

The TEA has yet to release its own A-F evaluations after at least 100 Texas school districts filed a lawsuit last fall, alleging that a revamped methodology would unfairly drop schools in the rankings and lay the groundwork for future state sanctions. In the absence of TEA rankings, CARs assessments provide the most comprehensive look at last years Houston-area school performance to date.

Leila Mzali, the lead researcher at Children at Risk, said the drop in scores is due largely to declines in the campus performance metric, which gauges how well a school does relative to its students' poverty levels, which are the greatest predictor of academic achievement.

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Fifth graders Camille Berghoefer, left, and Ava Grace Johnston, with Sharon Rob, counselor, right, participate in the Lunch Bunch, a counseling group, at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Thats where we saw a lot of schools falling this year, so really, low-income students are not being met where they need to be met, Mzali said.

Local high schools took the biggest hit, with about 79% of the 199 high schools in the area scoring lower than they did in 2022, continuing a trend that has seen high schools' performance drop from pre-pandemic levels, even as elementary and middle schools appear to stabilize. About 51% of Houston-area elementary schools and 52% percent of middle schools did worse in this years CAR rankings than they did the year prior.

Sanborn said high schools have always had it tougher, as students grow up and move away from the tight-knit environments of elementary and middle schools, but that the overall drop in performance shows that schools have yet to fully recover from pandemic learning loss, even if some partially bounced back last year.

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Books are shown at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Toni Templeton, a research scientist at the University of Houston Education Research Center, said last years redesign of the STAAR exams, which included a transition to online test-taking and a reduction of multiple-choice questions, should be taken into account when discussing any drop in test scores.

The test in 2023 was very different, and its also the first time that the test has been administered in this way, so there were lots of new things.  2023 was an interesting year for lots of reasons, Templeton said.

Sanborn also cited changes in the STAAR as a possible contributor to a drop in scores, but he believes its not enough to account for the decline on its own.

We were hoping that when we saw things get a little bit better, well maybe weve been able to ride out this pandemic, but its obvious by these years that we havent been able to ride out the pandemic and that there are a lot of kids that are still feeling the impact and not performing at the levels they should be performing at, Sanborn said.

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Though HISD schools, on average, dropped their scores at a higher rate than the regions average, only about 64% of its high schools performed worse last year than in 2022, compared to 76% of elementary schools and 85% of middle schools.

Thats partially due to HISDs strong magnet high schools, some of which consistently rank among the best of the country. HISD high schools account for eight of the top 10 high schools in the region, according to Children at Risk, but also make up nine of the bottom 12, suggesting a wide disparity between the speciality schools and the comprehensive neighborhood high schools, which tend to have a much higher poverty rate among the student body.

Third graders Rafael Quiroja, 9, left, Langdon Chiu, 8, Teddy Berghoefer, 9, and Elsa Shan, 9, right, work on a project in their English Language Arts class at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

One measure Children at Risk uses to account for a schools poverty rate is the Gold Ribbon distinction, which is awarded to A- and B-rated schools where low-income children make up at least 75% of the student body. HISD boasted 24 Gold Ribbon campuses in 2022, but only 10 in 2023.

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Overall, about 49% of HISD schools received D or F grades from Children at Risk in 2023, up from 35% in 2022. Those grades roughly align with appointed Superintendent Mike Miles' declaration in December that about 40% of HISD schools would have received D or Fs from the TEA under their ranking system, which has historically been a bit easier on schools.

The latest rankings from Children at Risk once again show that HISD has some of the best schools in the Houston region as well as schools that historically have not served children well, HISD spokesman Jose Irizarry said in a statement. The research and advocacy groups data is focused on the 2022-2023 school year  before HISD launched the New Education System and other efforts to dramatically improve the quality of instruction.

Templeton said some of HISDs struggles can be attributed to the unique population it serves, compared to smaller, wealthier districts in the area. HISD serves the largest student body in Texas with over 180,000 students, many of whom are economically disadvantaged or newly arrived immigrants. Emergent bilingual students now account for nearly 40% of the student body, data shows.

Third grader Ian Zheng, 9, works on a project in an English Language Arts class at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

Students that have particular challenges require a lot more resources and support to get to success, Templeton said.

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Sanborn, a longtime Houston education advocate, opposes Miles' authority on the grounds that he was appointed by Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath, rather than HISD constituents. He says, however, that this years data could justify the sweeping, sometimes controversial reforms that Miles is implementing across the district, especially at schools in his New Education System, where nearly all students are economically disadvantaged.

While campus performance scores remained largely stagnant across the board at HISD, growth scores at NES schools had steeper drops from 2022 to 2023 than the rest of the district, with the scores dropping nearly 30 points on average compared to 19 points at non-NES schools.

You have to be figuring out what can we do differently within these schools to make them successful, Sanborn said. Were going to need to try to do some of this stuff, and time will tell if the NES stuff is enough, or the right stuff, that we need to be implementing in these schools.

Irizarry said the district has seen very encouraging signs of progress at our schools, including a number of schools that were struggling in the past.

Based on what we are seeing in the classroom, the preliminary data we have from this school year, and the culture change underway in the district, we have every reason to believe that progress will continue, Irizarry said.

Sanborn said Children at Risks goal with these ranking is to provide parents with a clear-eyed picture of how their schools are doing and spur them to take action in Austin, where the Texas Legislature failed to provide funding for teacher raises and other public education initiatives last year.
A security man with Delta Service Security has been arrested in Twifo Praso in the Central Region for sending a teenage boy into the emergency room.



The suspect, Joseph Najok Kenwab is in trouble for slashing the thigh of Ebenezer Awuku with a cutlass.



According to Auntie Esi who is the mother of the victim, her 17-year-old son and his friends were harvesting plantain leaves on a farm near Topp Oil Palm Plantation when security men angrily confronted them.



During the confrontation, there was a scuffle leading to security officer Joseph Najok Kenwab bringing out a cutlass and slashing the thigh of the victim.





The teenage boy was subsequently rushed to the Twifo Praso Government Hospital in the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District where he is currently battling for his life.



According to the security officer, the teenage boys had no business being on the Twifo Oil Palm Plantation which has been marked as a security zone.



The suspect, Joseph Najok Kenwab also sustained minor injuries on his back and below his left knee during the altercation



He reported himself to the police after the incident where he was arrested.



He admitted to slashing the thigh of Ebenezer Awuku, arguing that he did so to free himself during the brawl with the teenager and his friends on the plantation.



The Police are now investigating the matter and have already visited the Twifo Praso Government Hospital to have a conversation with the teenage victim.



He has been directed to report to the Police Station once he is discharged from the hospital.







Source: Modern Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Atik Mohammed has expressed disappointment in President Nana Addo over his response to the request by some traditional leaders at Ekumfi in the Central Region for development in their communities.



The traditional leaders, who paid a visit to the President at the Jubilee House to address their plight, were given an explanation on why the community lacks development.



The President told them he had intentionally abandoned them because the constituents refused to vote for his party, the New Patriotic Party, parliamentary candidate, Ato Cudjoe.



Francis Ato Cudjoe was defeated by Abeiku Crentsil in the 2020 elections and according to the President, not providing development at Ekumfi was his payback.



"Ato Cudjoe was your MP and I made him a Deputy Minister and you voted him out in the last elections and because of that, I did not pay attention to development in your area, I have to be honest with you but since you have brought it up I will pay attention to it", he said.



Following the comments by President, his Communicators have sought to explain he made the remarks in jest but Atik Mohammed is least enthused about this justification.



To Atik, the President needed not to have said such things about the Ekumfi residents, stressing he wasn't elected to be President for the New Patriotic Party but rather to be a father for all.



"We didn't vote for you to become the President of NPP. When he's being described, he is described as the President of Ghana. Ekumfi is part of it; Republic of Ghana is not Accra only", he fumed.



"To make the comment that the President made, I think it was in terrible taste and any person who wants to rationalize the comment is not doing the President any good. We need to tell the truth", he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show.



Also replying the Communicators regarding their argument that the statement is a joke, he asked; "What is funny about what he (Nana Addo) said?"





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Alfred Kotey Ashie has won elected the parliamentary primary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Odododiodio constituency of Greater Accra.



The primary was put on hold due to a litigation.



Alfred Nii Kortey Ashie got 1209 votes as against that of Emmanuel Nii Okai Laryea's 952 votes.



The Functional Executive Committee of the NDC, in November 2023, disqualified Michael Nii Yarboi Annan from contesting in the parliamentary primary in the Odododiodioo Constituency.



The NDC explained that, Annan was not qualified in line with evidence presented, and based on Article 41(8)(b) of the NDC Constitution, which stipulates that, a member must be an active member of the party at the constituency level for the four years immediately preceding the date of filing nominations.



Annan unhappy witht he disqualification went to court and secured an injunction.



The NDC subsequently postponed the primary in the Odododiodioo constituency indefinitely.



Following the dismissal of the case, the party gave the go ahead for the primary to be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024.

Source: Graphiconline.com









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The former MP for Okaikwei South and Director for Bawumias Campaign Communications, has stated that John Mahama is a tried but failed leader and can not be the new, fresh leader the country will be looking for in the December elections.



Nana Akomea was speaking during the acclamation ceremony for Hon. Darkoa Newman, the current MP for Okaikwei South, last Saturday, 20th January, at the Kaneshie Presby Church.



Nana Akomea said John Mahama laid out his vision for the country in 2008 when he was a vice presidential candidate.



He reiterated his vision when he became president in July 2012, sadly, in the four and half years he was President,( the longest period for any first term president), Mahamas presidency was characterized by Dumsor, Economic hardships, and corruption on a grand scale.



He noted that Dumsor under Mahama lasted four years, during which period hundreds of Ghanaians lost their lives and thousands of businesses collapsed. He further noted that economic conditions under Mahama were so severe that President Mahama had to go the IMF for bailout.



Corruption, he noted, was rampant under President Mahama, and it was during the period that Gyeeda, Sada, Bus Branding, etc. all became common by words for corruption in Ghana. President Mahama himself was directly cited in corruption cases, including the West Blue contract and the infamous Ford car bribery.



Nana Akomea said all the promises Mahama is making today, he made them in various forms to Ghanaians in 2008 and especially in 2012, when he assumed the presidency. Yet, during his tenure, corruption didn't improve, the economy did not improve, unemployment worsened, etc, leading to the massive loss Mahama suffered in the 2016 elections.



Nana Akomea reminded his audience that President Mahama told Ghanaians he had a dead goat syndrome, and also, he would not take criticism from anyone who had not been president before. How can such a person be asking to be president again? Akomea asked.



Nana Akomea concluded that Bawumia has never been president, and has never been tagged with involvement in any corruption case, whether directly or indirectly.



Bawumias prognosis and prescriptions for the economy still remain true, and if voted as president , he will be in a position to deliver for Ghana.



Adding that, Bawumia is a fresh candidate who, given the chance as president, has a high possibility to deliver progress for all, compared to John Mahama, who has been president, and whose record was poor, leading to his rejection by Ghanaians







Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates in the Bosomtwe Constituency on Saturday unanimously approved Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwums bid to represent them in Parliament for the third time.



Through a popular acclamation during the extraordinary delegates conference, more than one thousand delegates shouted yes to his candidature.



The event was supervised by the Bosomtwe District Officer of the Electoral Commission (EC), Mrs Ernestina Owusu-Banahene, was held at Jachie, in the Ashanti Region.



All 1027 delegates present at the function as well as other members of the party got up shouting All of us! All of us, No challenger, No challenger, when the EC Officer asked if any delegate was in support of the MP.



Ghana, 3 other countries to benefit from $450m WB credit facility for pro-poor policiesSeptember 26, 2022

When there was no delegate to oppose the choice, the EC Officer officially announced Dr Adutwum as the Parliamentary candidate of the NPP in the upcoming 2024 general election to be held on December 7.



The acclamation was held because Dr Adutwum was the sole candidate who successfully filed to contest as the NPPs Parliamentary candidate for the constituency after the close of the stipulated period by the EC.



Dr Adutwum, addressing the gathering, lauded the delegates for the trust they had reposed in him by electing him for the third time to contest as a Parliamentary candidate.



He praised the leadership of the party in the constituency and all supporters of the party for their support and promised to work very hard to raise the flag of Bosomtwe high.



Dr Adutwum assured the party of his commitment to continue working very hard towards developing the constituency and the rest of the country.



Again, he assured them of efforts being made to complete ongoing projects like roads and schools infrastructure among others.



I want to assure you that every community in the constituency will have its fair share of the national cake, you should be patient and keep supporting me and the party to win the 2024 election. he said.



The Ashanti Regional Secretary of NPP, Adom Appiah, who represented the National Executives of the party at the function eulogised the people of Bosomtwe for the unity of purpose and the peace prevailing in the party over the years.



He urged members of the party in the constituency to remain focused and work hard towards victory for the party during the December general election.

Source: The Ghanaian Times









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The Council of Zongo Chiefs of Ghana say they are praying fervently for flagbearer of the New patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to be sworn in as President and Vice President respectively on 7th January, 2025.



At a Special Quran Recitation & Prayers to Allah for the New Patriotic Partys victory in the 2024 general elections on Friday, 19th January, 2024 at Kantudu behind the Kumasi Central Mosque held after Magrib prayers, the Zongo Chiefs prayed for Dr. Bawumia to select the Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South as his Running Mate into the upcoming general elections.



Speaking on behalf of the prayer congregation after the Quran recitation, Chief of Frafra and President of Council of Zongo Chiefs, Alhaji Musah stated they were praying for Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Prempeh because they have what it takes to lead Ghana to the next level.



It is our wish that Dr. Bawumia will be sworn in as President come 7th January, 2025 with Dr. NAPO as his Vice President. I know that our toil tonight in this recitation will not be in vain, Alhaji Musah said.



He continued; We pray that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumias best choice for the Running Mate will be our own brother, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. May Allah not let our toil be in vain.



The Zongo Chiefs further expressed optimism and faith in Allah that, as they have prayed, God will answer through Dr. Bawumia to make Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh his Running Mate in order for Allahs will for Ghana to prevail.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Henry Kwabena Kokofu has slammed Ex-President John Dramani Mahama over his comments about the 2023 WASSCE which saw a massive number of students pass the exams.



The former president discounted the performance of the students, attributing it to examination cheating, as he argued that some of the invigilators relaxed on their duties to allow the teachers to aid the students in answering the questions.



"In many places, they let the children cheat. You go to places, and the teachers are conniving with the students to cheat. The effect will be seen later," John Mahama is quoted.



But the EPA boss finds Mahama's assertions to be the highest form of insult to teachers in the country.



Chronicling events that have transformed Ghana's education system from independence until the Akufo-Addo administration, which has provided free SHS to alleviate the plight of parents and students, Mr. Kokofu noted that Mahama has denigrated the efforts of teachers who toil to see their students pass the exams.



"Despite all these efforts and challenges, if the teachers have patiently managed the schoolchildren and the students have passed their exams, don't they deserve commendation? Do we have to disgrace or denigrate them?", he lambasted the NDC flagbearer, John Mahama.



Henry Kokofu implored students and teaching staff to massively vote against Mr. Mahama during the presidential elections on December 7, exclaiming his words had betrayed his conscience about them.



"NPP under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has empowered you," he admonished the teachers and students while speaking on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Three-time gospel artiste of the year, Diana Hamilton is once again set to hold her super-anointed annual music programme dubbed "Experience With Diana Hamilton".



The songstress, who has over the years serenaded gospel music lovers, Ghanaians and music lovers all over the world with her hit singles, has announced this year's experience to be held in Accra and Kumasi in the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions respectively.



Diana Hamilton is out with a new release titled "The Doing of the Lord" which features Nigeria's gospel music star, Mercy Chinwo.



The song currently has 1 million views in just 7 days after release; more of this song and others will be performed on the night of experience.



Experience With Diana Hamilton will come off in Accra on February 18 at the ICGC Christ Temple, East Teshie, at 4 pm prompt.



The Kumasi version will also be held on February 25 at the Church of Pentecost auditorium at Bantama at the same time.



Tickets are selling between 100 and 400 cedis for the Accra event and in Kumasi, between GHC 70 and GHC 300; dial *725*8080# to purchase your ticket(s).



Don't miss this spiritual sandwich of music and fun! Come and experience God!!











Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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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: Alex Green from Pexels

An Australian-first study by researchers at Monash University has examined the impact of long COVID on victim-survivors' experiences of intimate partner violence.

The report Disconnected & insecure: The intersection between experiences of long COVID and intimate partner violence will be launched on Tuesday 23 January at The Wheeler Center with researchers presenting key findings, followed by a panel discussion on women's safety during and beyond the pandemic.

Lead researcher Professor Kate-Fitz-Gibbon said the study addresses a critical gap in global research into how long COVID impacts victim-survivors' safety and support needs.

"Globally there has been no attention paid to the intersection between long COVID and intimate partner violence. As we move further into the new normal of 'living with COVID,' understanding the intense and at times unique recovery needs of victim-survivors of intimate partner violence who have also experienced long COVID is critical to shaping the policy response and ensuring adequate services," Professor Fitz-Gibbon said.

The research team conducted an anonymous national online survey between April and October 2023 with 28 Australian adults who were affected by intimate partner violence and diagnosed with long COVID. The survey findings build new knowledge about the risks, nature and impacts of violence for victim-survivors with long COVID as well as their unique help-seeking behaviors, and support service needs.

The study found 13 of the participants had experienced abuse in a relationship prior to their diagnosis with long COVID, and seven experienced abuse for the first time following their long COVID diagnosis. Eighteen of the survey participants reported that contracting long COVID had put them at higher risk of intimate partner violence.

"What we've heard first hand from victim-survivors is not just changes in the frequency and severity of partner abuse, but also how their partners weaponized their long COVID symptoms to further perpetrate abusive and controlling behaviors," Professor Fitz-Gibbon said.

Professor Fitz-Gibbon co-authored the report with Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Center (MGFVPC) researchers Dr. Jasmine McGowan, Dr. Naomi Pfitzner and Benjamin Scott.

"Our study found that the mental and physical symptoms of long COVID placed victim-survivors at an increased risk of abuse. Perpetrators exploited these symptoms to further entrap their victim within coercively controlling relationships," said Dr. McGowan.

The study also provides insights into victim-survivors' help-seeking behaviors and the impact long COVID may have on access to services and supports. For several victim survivors, services were either less accessible or entirely inaccessible due to their long COVID symptoms.

"Nearly half of the victim-survivors who accessed support did so via the phone or a webchat service, highlighting the critical need to ensure continued funding for remote service delivery of domestic and family violence support services," said Dr. McGowan.

The survey also analyzed how experiences of long COVID impact victim-survivors' decisions to remain in an abusive relationship. Several participants said they were too unwell as a result of long COVID to even consider leaving their abusive partner.

According to Professor Fitz-Gibbon the findings provide critical insights that should inform the development of victim-centered supports and services to better support women leaving an abusive relationship, and to prevent escalation and repetition of abuse.

She said the report presents serious policy implications for the Australian Government's National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children, as well as ongoing public health policy and practice.

"Intimate partner violence is the number one risk factor contributing to the disease burden for Australian women aged 18 to 44 years oldgreater than alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use. If the recovery and healing of all victim-survivors is to be better supported, increasing awareness about the risk and recovery needs of victim-survivors with long COVID experiencing abuse must be an integral piece of the National Plan's focus on recovery and healing," Professor Fitz-Gibbon said.

More information: Kate Fitz-Gibbon et al, Disconnected & Insecure: The intersection between experiences of long COVID and intimate partner violence, Monash University (2024). DOI: 10.26180/25000520
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:

People who must work outdoors to make a living, such as many residents of this settlement in Makassar, Indonesia, are highly exposed to heat. Credit: Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments, Monash University

2023 was the hottest year on record. Humidity is rising too. Heat and humidity are a dangerous combination, threatening all aspects of our lives and livelihoods.

Climate change is pushing humid heat dangerously close to the upper limits of what people can survive. Parts of the world are on track for conditions beyond the limits of human tolerance.

Yet our new research published in One Earth shows poor weather station coverage across the tropics leads to underestimates of heat stress in cities. This means global climate change assessments probably overlook the local impacts on people.

Concentrated across tropical Asia and Africa, informal settlements, commonly known as "slums," are on the front line of climate exposure. The shortfalls in climate monitoring leave these communities dangerously vulnerable to rising humid heat. With few options to adapt, millions could be forced to seek refuge away from the hottest parts of the tropics.

Why is heat such a threat in these places?

Rapid urbanization that outpaces planned, formal development is driving the growth of informal settlements. Their residents usually lack infrastructure and services, such as electricity and water supply, that many city dwellers take for granted.

More than 1 billion people live in informal settlements. The United Nations expects this number to grow to 3 billion over the next 30 years. In countries such as Kenya or Bangladesh, nearly half the urban populations lives in informal settlements.

Most informal settlements are located in the tropics. Here it is hot and humid year-round, but their residents have few options to adapt to heat stress.

Most households in these settlements are on low incomes. Many residents must work outdoors for their livelihoods, which exposes them to heat and humidity.

On top of this, because informal settlements fall outside official systems and regulations, we often lack data about the threats they face.

What's missing from climate data?

Most of the world's population lives more than 25km from a weather station. This means weather stations rarely capture the full range of temperature and humidity in cities, which are usually hotter than non-urban surroundsthe urban heat island effect. These gaps in monitoring are largest across the tropics where most informal settlements are located.

As individuals we experience heat on a local scale, which isn't captured by sparse weather station networks or meteorological models. If your home is too hot, a weather report telling you otherwise offers little respite.

Our research compiled local climate monitoring data from informal settlements in seven tropical countries. We compared these data to temperature and humidity measurements at the nearest weather station.

Lack of accurate local data means climate adaptation efforts could overlook communities exposed to extreme heat and humidity. Credit: Grant Duffy, Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments, Monash University

We found weather stations severely underestimate the heat stress that people experience in their homes and local communities. This means global climate assessments and projections also likely underestimate local-scale impacts.

Although these data come from a relatively small number of studies, they highlight a major hurdle for climate adaptation. Without accurate heat stress data, how can we ensure the most vulnerable communities are not left behind?

Even if they get a heat warning, options are limited

During a heat wave in Australia we are usually told to stay inside and drink lots of water. For residents of an informal settlement, this advice might actually increase their risk of health impacts.

Heat can be even worse indoors in informal housing with poor ventilation and insulation. Very few households have air conditioning (or could afford to run it if they did). Residents might not have access to safe drinking water, adding to the health risks of heat stress.

What's more, advice and alerts are unlikely even to reach informal settlements. A 2023 World Meteorological Organization report found only half of the world's countries have early-warning systems.

These systems are activated if forecast heat is above certain trigger levels. Health advice and alerts to the public can be backed by extra public health measures. Regional climate centers currently issue broad-scale alerts, but forecasts and responses need to operate at smaller scales to be effective.

And, as we have shown, forecasts are based on weather station data that underestimate heat in informal settlements. This means early-warning systems could fail to activate even though residents of these settlements will experience dangerous heat stress.

What can be done to protect people?

Current climate monitoring efforts have left millions of vulnerable people at risk of heat stress. This has direct impacts on individual health and well-being, with broader knock-on effects for societies and national economies.

Meteorological institutes in developing countries need urgent support to strengthen climate monitoring and improve early-warning systems. The new head of the World Meteorological Organization has promised to do just that. We need to ensure governments and agencies, such as development banks and NGOs, capitalize on this opportunity and include informal settlements in new monitoring networks.

Inequalities in resources and adaptive capacities must also be overcome. Community-based initiatives such as urban greening and improved housing show promise to reduce urban heat. Investing in these solutions must be a priority of adaptation efforts.

The alternative to adapting is to move. Climate-related migration is already happening due to sea-level rise and heat, including here in Australia.

People don't leave their homes and uproot their lives without good reason. Finding solutions that help them adapt to climate change should be the priority.

More information: Emma E. Ramsay et al, Humid heat stress overlooked for one billion people in urban informal settlements, One Earth (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.oneear.2023.12.005 Journal information: One Earth

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
A first grade student works on math classwork on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023 at Gregg Elementary School in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Houston Independent School District elementary and middle school students in New Education System campuses saw slightly more growth in math and reading than students at non-NES campuses, according to data released by HISD from recent districtwide exams.

The district administered the Northwest Evaluation Associations Measures of Academic Progress Growth for the first time this academic year, with students taking the Middle of the Year exams in reading, math and science last week. HISD's results show that, on average, students in all grade levels saw above-average growth, with the largest increase among white students and students at NES schools.

Third- through eighth-graders received between 100 and 350 points based on their achievement. The district reported that third-graders' math scores increased from 183.8 in September to 192.6 in December, and reading scores went from 181.8 to 189.2.

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HISD elementary students saw their average achievement percentiles go to 48 from 45 on math and to 48 from 47 in reading. Middle school students saw a 1 percentile increase in both subjects, putting their new averages at 45 in math and 46 in reading.

State-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said the test results show HISD is on the right path but still has a long way to go. However, the MAP scores are just a singular data point and don't signify a trend, he said.

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Our students did great, Miles said in an interview with the Houston Chronicle. They stepped up ... which also means that the teachers did great things because kids can't do well without the teachers doing well. Teachers stepped up. They did a really awesome job.

The data shows the percentage of students in each grade level who met or exceeded projected growth targets calculated by the NWEA. About 60% of elementary and middle school students at NES schools met their expected growth targets on the reading exam, compared with 54% of non-NES students at both campus levels, according to HISD.

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The reforms unveiled in the NES model are paying off, Miles said.

"There's a footnote always," he said. "One set of data does not a trend make, I get it. But you can see that we're headed in the right direction. You can see that what we said was going to happen to the NES schools happened. Kids who are behind get more supports."

Students took the math MAP exam Wednesday even as several campuses struggled to provide adequate heating and plumbing to students. Miles said principals did what they could to provide kids with the best test environment possible but acknowledged that some students would have done better on the test if their classrooms had been more comfortable.

No question that some kids took the test in a colder room than they would have liked to have had, for sure, but obviously, it didn't make it so cold that they couldn't focus and concentrate, given the scores that they had on the NWEA test, Miles said.

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The preliminary MAP results that the district provided to the Chronicle were not final and did not include data or analysis from the science exam results, which students took Friday. Miles said the district plans to publish the final, official test results in about two weeks.

The district also did not provide any raw Beginning of the Year or Middle of the Year scores for demographic groups or individual campuses.

According to the preliminary data, about 59% of HISDs elementary school students and 56% of middle school students met expected growth in math, while 55% of elementary schoolers and 54% of middle schoolers met their reading targets.

Black and Hispanic elementary and middle school students districtwide saw less overall growth compared with white students on both tests. However, they saw slightly more growth on the math exams in NES and NES-aligned schools than white students, as well as the middle school reading exams.

According to the districts data, 58% of Black students and 63% of Hispanic students at NES schools met their growth targets on the elementary school math exam, compared with 55% of white students. Meanwhile, 64% white students saw growth on the same exam in non-NES elementary schools, compared with 53% of Black students and 58% of Hispanic students.

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NO TO CHAPLAINS: HISD school board votes against allowing chaplains to serve as counselors

Miles said he was unsure why white students were seeing less growth in NES and NES-A schools compared with non-NES schools. He said it could be because of a smaller number of white students in NES schools  which largely consist of Black, Hispanic and low-income students  or the effect of poverty on students.

The results also provide data on HISD students' overall proficiency by assigning students an achievement percentile that shows how they did compared with a norm group, which is a separate large group of diverse students who have also taken the test.

The data shows that the average achievement percentile in HISD remains relatively unchanged for elementary and middle school students in reading and math compared with the Beginning of the Year exams, except elementary school students saw slightly better achievement on the math exam.

This has not moved in 20 years in HISD, so moving it at all is a feat, but we need to move this so that we get to the 60th percentile in about five years, Miles said. This is a hard first year. We're just getting started, and it's only been four and a half months, so I'd been impressed by the end of the year if we get to 3 percentile growth, and I won't be happy next year if we don't get 6 percentile growth.
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Credit: Pok Rie from Pexels

Algal blooms can mean toxic fumes, green muck, nasty stench, and death for seagrass and marine animals. All of it is bad for Florida's economy, and sometimes human health. But just how bad has been murkyuntil now.

A group of Florida nonprofits has teamed with environmental economics analysts Greene Economics to put actual numbers on what happens to local businesses and property values during harmful algal blooms.

The report, readied by Captains for Clean Water, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation, used Southwest Florida as a case study.

Specifically, researchers pulled data for Collier, Charlotte, Lee counties, an area that stretches from the wilderness of Big Cypress National Preserve, west and north through Marco Island, Naples, Fort Myers and Charlotte Harbor.

Though it was a west-coast report, parallels exist on the east coastthe Stuart area and Indian River Lagoon suffer from similar algal blooms, as do Biscayne Bay and Florida Bay, where the Everglades meets the Gulf of Mexico.

The results of the analysis show that if an algal bloom like the ones that kneecapped the Collier, Charlotte and Lee counties in 2005, 2006 and 2018 struck in 2024 or 2025, the study area would lose more than $460 million in commercial and recreational fishing, 43,000 jobs, $5.2 billion in local economic output, $17.8 billion in property values.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration defines Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) as events when fresh or saltwater algae grows "out of control while producing toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals, and birds  human illnesses caused by HABs, though rare, can be debilitating or even fatal."

Harmful blooms are fueled by nutrient runoff, leaking septic systems, excess fertilizer, and in the case of both the east and west coast of Florida, Lake Okeechobee runoff. That runoff, which can be full of both blue-green algae, and the phosphorus and nitrogen nutrients that boost blooms, has traditionally been released in spring and summer, as the Army Corps of Engineers manages lake levels through Florida's wet season.

And though red tide is a naturally occurring bloom, recent research has found that it is exacerbated by nutrient runoff.

The report analyzed data from the Florida Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and NOAA.

East coast impacts

Though the research looked at Southwest Florida as a case study, parallels exist on the east coast.

Fishing guide Mike Holliday, who also works for Captains for Clean Water, said that locals around Stuart and the Saint Lucie Inlet refer to the summer of 2016 as the "Lost Summer" due to rampant algal blooms, and 2018 was just as bad.

Polluted and often algae-laden Lake Okeechobee discharges flow west to Charlotte Harbor, but also east along the Saint Lucie River to dump into the southern end of the Indian River Lagoon. The freshwater blue-green algae causes goopy green muck to pile up along the seawalls of the wealthy, and the Lake Okeechobee nutrient load and freshwater can kill marine seagrass meadows crucial to the lagoon's food chain.

Holliday has for years specialized in finding sea trout and snook, which live in inshore waters where blooms have been more destructive. He said severe blooms flowing out of Lake Okeechobee reach all the way to ocean beaches and turn the water pea green. When the algae piles up it looks like big slimy puzzle pieces floating by the boat.

"For me it's scary because of the links (blue-green algae) has had to neurological diseases," he said. "But I can't not work. So I'm fishing around it."

Holliday often fishes with live bait. "I'm throwing my cast net and putting the net in my mouth when I'm throwing it on bait."

Algae also gets into his livewell. "I open my livewell, and the entire surface of my livewell is coated with it. I know I'm breathing it. I put my hand in there 100 times a day."

Clients are not particularly put off by the brown water flowing down from Lake Okeechobee, but once the algae makes news, business suffers. "When we get the full-blown blooms, it basically shuts the business down. What I try to do is go offshore."

In deeper ocean water, away from the blooms, he fishes for sailfish, blackfin tuna and kingfish. Still, the brown freshwater can plume miles out into the ocean where waters are 100 feet deep. The quest for clean water costs him gas. "You can run for 30 minutes and still be in dirty water," he said.

Recreation

Recreational activities such as fishing, hiking, birding and boating are worth over $25 billion per year across the three-county study area in the Greene report. Saltwater fishing and beach activities, two arenas heavily impacted by algal blooms, combine for a total of $6.51 billion annually.

The report found that tourism and recreation, which rely on clean water, account for 12.7% of the study area's employment and 7.5% of the GDP.

When the study combined other marine industries, such as boat building and marine construction, water-related jobs accounted for 17.5% of the employment and 11.4% of the GDP of the three counties.

There's an economic ripple effect to having fun on the water.

For example, the report said, people who fish spend money on their boats, bait, guides, licenses and food. Those who travel to Florida to fish are staying in hotels, eating at restaurants and also hiring guides. Tarpon fishing alone generated more than $63 million in annual revenue in parts of the region.

The three counties reaped sportfishing expenditures of more than $1.4 billion per year from resident and visiting anglers.

Red tide can be particularly disruptive. Studies in northwest Florida found that months with red tides resulted in tourism sectors declining 29% to 35% in average monthly revenues.

The baseline value for recreational fishing in the three-county area was $1.44 billion per year, and if a long-term algal bloom occurred, the industry would lose $459.7 million annually.

Commercial fishing

Overall, tonnage of commercial fish catches have decreased in the region since 2000 between 35% and 65%, but that's not specifically attributable to algal blooms.

However, in Lee County, which has much higher commercial take than the others, commercial tonnage dropped precipitously from 5,000 tons to below 3,000 tons after the algal blooms of 2005 and 2018. It's unclear if there were regulatory forces at play as well.

Previous studies found that in nearby Pinellas County, the seafood businesses generate 14.8% less in monthly taxable sales during red tide events.

All told, the baseline value of commercial fishing in the three-county area was $30.8 million, and in a long-term algal bloom, the industry would lose $4.6 million annually.

Property value and local costs

The Greene report drew on previous economic work by other researchers.

One study, published in 2020 by economist Andrew Bechard, compared sale prices for properties where blooms occur compared where no blooms were present. Bechard found that during a bloom event, residential properties within a mile of an affected area sold for 25% less than those in an unaffected area.

A Florida Association of Realtors study in 2015 found a positive correlation between water quality and increased property values in Lee and Martin counties.

Dead fish, manatees and dolphins are not only horrible publicity, the cleanup also hurts the local economy, the report found. 2018 was a particularly bad yearSanibel spent more than $2 million cleaning up a red-tide event from the end of July through the first week of September and Fort Myers spent over $400,000 cleaning up the same event.

Lee County cleaned up 2,000 tons of rotting sea life from beaches due to red tide that year and was awarded $3 million in grant money by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to do so.

A wet El Nino winter

Though the Army Corps of Engineers managed to not release any waters from Lake Okeechobee into the east and west coast estuaries in 2023, the wet El Nino winter we're experiencing does not bode well.

The lake is already at 16.18 feet. The average height in mid-January is usually around 14.5 feet. Captains for Clean Water and other groups fear this could mean water releases if the wet weather continues.

In the end, the report found that poor water quality is antithetical to both healthy ecosystems and healthy local economies. "It is clear that southwest Florida is a 'water community;' the water draws both tourists and residents to the region and is an essential part of everyday life," the report read.

It also looked to a future as one that includes not only more coastal development, but also climate change, sea-level rise, and the ensuing saltwater intrusion.

Poor water quality, and "the magnitude of those negative impacts is likely to increase as the frequency and intensity of events compound on an already weakened ecosystem," the report said. Over time, the character of the region will change.

For Holliday the issue is immediate. "The threat of mycobacteria and the possibility of getting any of those neurological diseases makes people not want to come here," he said. "And the people who are here on vacation are not going to the beach. They're not swimming in that. If you have a restaurant on the water, nobody's going to go sit by that."

2024 South Florida Sun Sentinel. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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The global effort to keep climate change to safe levelsideally within 1.5C above pre-industrial temperaturesis moving far too slowly. And even if we stopped emitting CO 2 today, the long-term impacts of the gas already in the air would continue for decades. For these reasons, we will soon have to focus not only on halting but on reversing global warming.

We can do that in two ways. The first is by "drawdown"strengthening natural processes on Earth that withdraw CO 2 from the atmosphere. The second is through vast experiments with the climate known as geo-engineering, some of which sound like science fiction, and could be extremely dangerous if ever tried.

The dangers of some forms of geo-engineering

Geo-engineering proposals to arrest climate change range from the seemingly sensiblepainting our roofs and roads whiteto the highly speculative: solar radiation modification, or putting mirrors in space to reflect some of the sun's heat away from Earth. Probably the most commonly proposed form of geo-engineering involves putting sulfur into the stratosphere to dim the power of the sun.

The natural 1991 eruption of the Pinatubo volcano in the Philippines showed the effects of sulfur in action. The eruption measurably cooled the Earth's surface for almost two years.

But we don't have to wait for an erupting volcano: all we need do is add some sulfur to the emissions of the world's airline fleet, and release it once planes are in the stratosphere. The sulfur layer, which would also reflect some of the sun's heat back to space, would be a relatively inexpensive global cooling mechanism, instantaneous in its effect and implementable right now.

Yet this approach does nothing to remove CO 2 from the atmosphere, or to reduce the rising acidity of the oceans. It's like a Band-Aid over a festering sore. And, beyond its cooling effect, its impact on the climate system as a whole is unknown: no one to my knowledge has modeled the effects of using the jet fleet in this way.

No international treaty exists to regulate such experiments. In April 2022, the US start-up company, Make sunsets, released weather balloons designed to reach the stratosphere, carrying a few grams of sulfur particles. There was no public scrutiny or scientific monitoring of the work. The company is already trying to sell "cooling credits" for future flights that could carry larger volumes of sulfur.

And what if climate change brings mass famine and civil disobedience to China? It is already seeding clouds to make rain on a massive scale. China might think it is doing the right thing by putting sulfur into the stratosphere. But that decision might lead to war with other countries. What if this form of geoengineering affected the monsoon in India and caused famine? We just don't know what the climatic and political impacts would be.

Drawdown's potential to store carbon

Drawdown, by contrast, involves withdrawing CO 2 from the atmosphere and storing it in other planetary organs, such as rocks, oceans or plants. Drawdown is much longer term than geoengineering, and most initiatives are only in the research and development stage. The most advanced and practical, by far, is forest protection and reafforestation.

Today humans emit about 51 billion tons of CO 2 a year. Protecting and regenerating forests draws down 2 billion metric tons a year. Other approaches, such as direct air capture of CO 2 , draw down much smaller volumes.

So forest protection and reafforestation is our best bet for getting us closer to limiting warming to 1.5C. A recent paper in the Nature journal argues we could draw down as much as 226 metric gigatons by allowing existing forests in areas where few humans live to recover to maturity, and by regrowing forests in areas where they have been removed or fragmented.

We should not ignore other drawdown pathways, however. Seaweed is a promising option for drawing down a billion tons or so of CO 2 by 2050. But we need a lot more scientific research to understand how to do that, and what its wider impacts might be. Today only one commercial kelp farm existsKelp Blue, off the coast of Namibia, where four hectares of kelp are not only storing carbon but are used to make biodegradable food packaging and crop stimulants.

Silicate rocks, which are common in many places, including Victoria's Western District, also offer great hope. Once the rocks are crushed, a kilogram of a mineral they contain, olivine, will sequester 1.5 kilograms of CO 2 from the atmosphere within a few weeks of being spread on a farm field or put onto a beach.

The crushing speeds up a natural sequestering process of thousands of years. Field trials conducted in Brazil and other countries show using crushed rocks on crops can bring another benefitsignificant increases in the yields of corn, cocoa and many other crops.

The problem is that the way we quarry and transport rocks today creates a lot of fossil fuel emissions. Once a farm is more than a few hundred kilometers from the quarry most of the benefit is gone. So until we can decarbonize transport and industrial energy, the benefit of silicate rocks will be minimal.

A process known as "direct air capture" sucks CO 2 out of the air and either puts it deep into rock strata or uses it for greenhouses or as the basis of concrete, plastic and other products that can sequester carbon long term. Nineteen plants using this technology are already operating around the world, including in Switzerland, the US and Iceland. But again, a lot of industrial capacity and a clean energy to run the plants are needed to get the value.

What the Albanese government should do

For these reasons, the Albanese government should focus its drawdown efforts on forest protection and regrowth. This could be a theme of the UN climate conference Australia is bidding to co-host with Pacific nations in 2026. Our temperate forests contain more carbon per hectare than almost anywhere on Earth. Stopping old-growth logging would be a magnificent contribution to arresting climate change.

The government should also back research and development on seaweed and silicate rocks so that the country's huge resources can be responsibly deployed in future. Finally, Australia must push urgently for a global treaty to restrain sulfur geoengineering.

Today governments are busy just trying to reduce emissions and haven't looked closely at drawdown and geoengineering. But things are moving fast, and it's time to start.

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Native American tribes in eastern Washington will supply up to 15 wolves to Colorado next winter under a new agreement that marks a major step forward for the state's reintroduction efforts.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said the agreement with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation will allow state wildlife officials to capture wolves on the tribes' land from December through March 2025. Last month, CPW released the first 10 wolves, captured in neighboring Oregon, as part of a plan to reintroduce up to 50 of the apex predators to the state in coming years.

"We are grateful to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation for working with our agency on this critical next step in reintroducing gray wolves in the state," Colorado Parks and Wildlife Director Jeff Davis said in a news release.

Wildlife officials have decided not release more wolves in Colorado this winter, according to the news release. Under the state's Wolf Restoration and Management Plan, officials could have released five more wolves this season, on top of the 10 last month.

Instead, they will wait until December to "allow the agency to assess the releases in December (2023) and let CPW staff adjust to any increased workload of having wolves on the ground in Colorado," the news release states.

Waiting also will allow for additional resources to become available for the support of ranchers' efforts to minimize conflicts with wolves, as proposed in Gov. Jared Polis' budget for the next fiscal year.

"After an incredibly successful first release of wolves from Oregon last month," Davis said, "our focus will be on refining our internal processes, continuing the work we're already doing to bolster our staff expertise and honing our notification structure so the public is well informed regarding release efforts." CPW also will try to balance "the need for the safety and security of staff and (the) gray wolves."

Davis apologized last week for a lack of notice to ranchers and Colorado Parks and Wildlife commissioners about the first release of wolves in the state. Wildlife officials and the governor released five wolves on Dec. 18the first wolves released into the state as part of a controversial voter-mandated reintroduction effort. Five more wolves were released over the following week.

Oregon was the first state to grant Colorado permission to relocate its wolves. Leaders from several other Western statesincluding Idaho, Montana and Wyomingsaid they would not provide wolves to Colorado, citing controversy over the species in their own communities.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife plans to release between 10 and 15 wolves a year over the next three to five years to create a self-sustaining wolf population in the state.

The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation consists of 12 tribes residing on a single 1.4 million-acre reservation northwest of Spokane, Washington.

"The Colville Tribes is very pleased to partner with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to restore the wolf population in Colorado," Jarred-Michael Erickson, chairman of the tribes, said in the news release announcing the collaboration.

"The Colville people strongly believe in preserving our environment, including its fish and animals. We are thrilled that our restoration efforts on our own lands have progressed far enough that we can share some of these magnificent creatures with the citizens of Colorado."

2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Map of the Congo Basin (A) with the Ruki sub-basin highlighted in red. Detailed map of the Ruki Basin with sampling location at Mbandaka shown in panel (B). Land-cover data sourced from ESA CCI-LC 2021 data. Credit: Limnology and Oceanography (2023). DOI: 10.1002/lno.12436

The Congo Basin of central Africa is well known for its network of rivers that drain a variety of landscapes, from dense tropical forests to more arid and wooded savannas. Among the Congo River's large tributaries, the Ruki is unique in its extremely dark color, which renders the water opaque below a few centimeters' depth.

This large blackwater river caught the attention of our carbon biogeochemistry research team when we visited its confluence with the Congo River at the city of Mbandaka. Mbandaka is a small city in the Democratic Republic of Congo, located about 600km upstream from Kinshasa on the Congo River. The area around Mbandaka is known as the Cuvette Centrale and is characterized by its vast low-lying topography, much of which floods during the rainy season and results in extensive swamp forests.

As we watched the placid dark water of the Ruki flow by, we wondered just how much carbon this river was transporting and where it came from. To answer these questions, we decided to measure the carbon in the Ruki for one year to account for seasonal changes.

The results of this study show that the Ruki is a major contributor of dissolved carbon to the Congo River, and that the majority of this carbon is sourced from the leaching of forest vegetation and soils. These results also suggest that the way in which calculations are made about how much carbon tropical forests accumulate might be off the markperhaps slightly overestimated.

These findings are important because rivers are major conduits of carbon from land to ocean and atmosphere, supplying organic matter to downstream ecosystems and carbon dioxide to the air. It is important to quantify how much carbon they are moving, where it is coming from, and where it ends up. Such accounting helps scientists understand how different ecosystems function, what role they play in the carbon cycle, and how they might respond to future or ongoing human perturbations such as climate or land-use change.

The heart of the forest

The Ruki River lies at the center of the Congo Basin. It drains a uniquely homogeneous 188,800km2 of pristine lowland and swamp forests. Since climate, vegetation, soils, geology and the concentration of human impacts vary widely across Earth's surface, it's uncommon for a watershed of this size to have such uniform land cover. There are likely no other such uniform watersheds of this size on earth.

This means we had an opportunity to pinpoint how a specific land cover influences the quantity and composition of organic material leached from decomposing plants and soils and carried by rainwater to river channels. Knowing this, we can "unmix" the signals measured in the Congo River and better ascertain the differences in carbon export between the many tributaries and land covers of the basin.

We found that Ruki supplies 20% of the dissolved carbon in the Congo River though it makes up only 5% of the Congo's watershed by area. This contribution is so high because the Ruki's water is extremely concentrated in dissolved organic matter. In fact, it is significantly richer in dissolved carbon than even the Amazon's Rio Negro ("Black River"), which is famous for its black color also stemming from high concentration of organics.

Water with very high concentrations of organic matter signals neither a good nor bad thing. It just means lots of carbon is contained in the water.

Because the Ruki watershed is so flat, rainwater drains slowly and has plenty of time to leach organic material from its dense vegetation. It's like leaving multiple bags of tea to steep in water over a long period of time.

One of the reasons we wanted to know where these organic compounds were originating from is that large areas of the Ruki are underlain by enormous tracts of peat-like soils. These organic-rich soils have accumulated over hundreds to thousands of years from the buildup of partially decomposed plant matter.

If this peat was being leached or eroded into the river, through some form of disturbance, it could be released as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and compound the greenhouse effect, much like the unearthing and combustion of fossil fuels.

Our radiocarbon isotopic measurements of the dissolved carbon indicate that there is very little peat carbon entering the river (none of it is very old), and that the dissolved carbon is sourced instead from forest vegetation and recently formed soil.

This is good news for now, but it's something to keep an eye on if periods of drought or human activity disturb these carbon-rich peat soils.

Balancing the forest sink

Why does it matter if the Ruki transports a large amount of carbon?

One answer is that the carbon lost from terrestrial ecosystems to rivers can determine whether forests are taking up more carbon from the atmosphere (sinks) than releasing it (source) to the atmosphere. Most assessments of the balance (carbon coming in versus carbon going out of a forest) fail to account for the carbon that moves laterally to rivers.

In the case of the Ruki, the high amount of carbon that is contained in the river per unit area of the watershed suggests that this lateral movement of carbon from the Congo's lowland forests comprises a significant proportion of the carbon balance, that is, the difference between what is coming in from photosynthesis and what is returned via respiration.

Thus, tropical forests like those around the Ruki might not accumulate quite as much carbon as we once thought. Further research is required to pin down whether this is the case. But our work on the Ruki already indicates that areas drained by such blackwater rivers may be particularly prone to carbon accounting errors like this.

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Dr. Sabine Matallana-Surget, University of Stirling, carrying out seawater filtration to collect marine bacteria in Florida. Credit: University of Stirling

New research by the University of Stirling could lead to major improvements in marine oil spill cleanup processes.

The innovative study led by researcher Dr. Sabine Matallana-Surget and Dr. Wade Jeffrey of the University of West Florida assessed the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on microscopic seawater bacteria that perform a significant role in ecosystem functioning.

Dr. Matallana-Surget, of the University of Stirling's Faculty of Natural Sciences, used a pioneering technique more commonly employed in medical science during field work in the Gulf of Mexico. The research is published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

The findings show chemical oil dispersants used to mitigate the impact of the Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010 worsened the stress response in bacteria and those harmful effects were then intensified by exposure to sunlight.

The Deepwater Horizon marine oil spillthe largest in history with 4.9 million barrels of crude oil released into the Gulf of Mexicohappened in the spring, a season characterized by extreme sunlight in the region.

Dr. Matallana-Surget said, "We have demonstrated that dispersants exert a more profound impact on the regulation of microbial communities than the oil spill itself. In just 24 hours, these chemicals induce acute stress responses.

"Additionally, sunlight played a crucial role in intensifying dispersant toxicity. In the presence of sunlight and oil, the diversity of essential hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria significantly decreased.

"This suggests that sunlight can modify the chemical structure of oil, making it more toxic to specific bacterial species.

"Our study also revealed the impact of oil and dispersant on cyanobacterial photosynthesis, further emphasizing the intricate interactions between contaminants, sunlight, and microbial communities in the Gulf of Mexico."

The research has international significance for society and industry because it deepens understanding of the impact of oil spill responses.

Dr. Matallana-Surget added, "By understanding how dispersants impact microbial communities in the presence of natural hydrocarbon degraders, we contribute to more effective oil spill cleanup strategies. The benefits extend globally, as marine ecosystems worldwide face similar challenges.

"The findings have the potential to influence environmental policies and cleanup procedures on an international scale.

"The study's implications extend to environmental conservation, influencing future strategies for mitigating the impact of such incidents and safeguarding marine ecosystems."

Among the countries that could benefit from the findings is the United Kingdom. Dr. Matallana-Surget said, "The study primarily focuses on the impact of oil spills in the Gulf of Mexico, but its outcomes hold broader relevance for policymakers in regions facing similar challenges, such as Scotland, with crude oil seepages.

"The insights gained from our research could provide valuable guidance for crafting effective policies and response strategies in these comparable environments."

The study saw researchers simulate oil spills in waters collected off Pensacola Beach in Florida. Crude oil was added with and without dispersant under sunlight and dark conditions, with larger organisms filtered out.

The study's use of state-of-the-art molecular tools typically employed in medical science places it at the forefront of environmental science research.

Dr. Matallana-Surget, who has pioneered the technique, said, "This enables a more precise and comprehensive analysis of microbial communities' reactions to oil spills.

"These findings not only enhance our comprehension of environmental impacts but also underscore the capacity of employing state-of-the-art molecular tools to address crucial concerns in marine conservation.

"This innovative approach marks a transformative shift, elevating the precision and depth of oil spill investigations and guiding future endeavors to preserve the health of our oceans."

The research led by the University of Stirling was an international collaboration with scientists from the University of West Florida (U.S.), Sorbonne University (France), the University of Mons (Belgium) and the University of Tubingen (Germany).

"This project would have never been possible without the truly concerted effort of a team of long-term colleagues who have played a pivotal role in bringing together the outcomes of this ambitious study," added Dr. Matallana-Surget.

More information: Sabine Matallana-Surget et al, Clarifying the murk: unveiling bacterial dynamics in response to crude oil pollution, Corexit-dispersant, and natural sunlight in the Gulf of Mexico, Frontiers in Marine Science (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1337886 Journal information: Frontiers in Marine Science
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Map of China locating Zhenxiong County in southwestern Yunnan provice where dozens of people were buried in a landslide on Monday.

Dozens of people were buried and three were confirmed killed when a landslide struck a remote and mountainous part of southwestern China on Monday.

The pre-dawn landslide buried 18 homes and sparked the evacuation of more than 200 people when it struck in Zhenxiong County, Yunnan province, state media said.

Three people are confirmed dead and rescuers have saved four, according to a report by state broadcaster CCTV just before 4:00 pm (0900 GMT).

Two hundred rescue workers have been dispatched as well as dozens of fire engines and other equipment, CCTV said.

One local told the state-run Beijing News outlet that she was asleep when the disaster hit and that parts of her ceiling had fallen onto her head.

"At the time I thought it was an earthquake, but later I knew it was the hillslope collapsing," another resident told the outlet.

Both were quoted under pseudonyms.

Footage shared on social media by a local broadcaster showed emergency workers in orange jumpsuits and helmets forming ranks outside a fire station as snowflakes whirled through the air.

Other images showed rescuers picking through towering piles of collapsed masonry in which a few personal belongings could be seen.

Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered "all-out" rescue efforts, CCTV reported.

Xi "demanded that rescue forces are organized quickly... and efforts made to reduce casualties as far as possible," the broadcaster reported him as saying.

He added that it was "necessary to properly handle the work of comforting the families of the deceased and resettling affected people".

CCTV broadcast an image it said showed a firefighter working to pull a trapped villager from inside a home affected by the disaster.

The local village head declined to speak about the landslide when contacted by phone, telling AFP he was "too busy".

Landslides common

Landslides are common in Yunnan, a far-flung and largely impoverished region of China where steep mountain ranges butt against the Himalayan plateau.

Monday's disaster occurred in a rural area surrounded by towering peaks dusted with snow, state media footage showed.

Temperatures in Zhenxiong hovered at around minus four degrees Celsius (24.8 degrees Fahrenheit) on Monday morning, weather data showed.

There was no immediate official explanation for what may have caused the landslide.

Efforts to establish what happened are underway, Xinhua reported.

China has experienced a string of natural disasters in recent months, some following extreme weather events such as sudden, heavy downpours.

In September, rainstorms in the southern region of Guangxi triggered a mountain landslide that killed at least seven people, according to media reports.

Heavy rains sparked a similar disaster near the northern city of Xi'an in August, causing the deaths of more than 20 people.

And in June, a landslide in southwestern Sichuan provincealso remote and mountainouskilled 19 people.

 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

On her way home from work on a recent wintry night, Kathy Keane ran into a group of people quietly watching a pair of great horned owls perched on a tree in Lincoln Park.

"I started hearing the 'hoot, hoot,' and then the other would call back 'hoot, hoot,'" she told the Tribune. "And it was just so beautiful."

Excited about the sighting, she made sure to walk by the same spot the next day with her husband, Patrick Keane.

The bird was still on the tree, but then a drone flew toward the owl and scared it away. The Keanes decided to approach the two people piloting the aircraft.

"I'm like, 'Do you realize you scared the owl with that thing?'" Patrick Keane recalled. "And he gotI'm not exaggerating herehe got a big smile on his face and said, 'Yeah, we did.' And he's like, 'We scared the other one earlier in the evening.'"

As native great horned owls court and nest in Chicago, and expectations ramp up for rare winter sightings of snowy owls from the Arctic, encounters like this underscore the importance of viewing and photographing these birds safely, experts say.

"The problem of harassing wildlife and specifically owls is not a new one," said Edward Warden, president of the Chicago Ornithological Society. "There's something incredibly compelling about them as birds.  People (get) excited to see them when they're in our midst, whether you call yourself a birder or not, it's kind of a very universal thing."

Generally, curious humans disturbing owls is unintentional. But interactions are more likely to occur in the winter, when trees have no leaves and the birds are easier to spot, and as breeding season begins.

The Chicago Bird Alliance says humans can stress out owls by interfering with their hunting, causing fatigue and making them more vulnerable to traffic and predators like peregrine falcons or red-tailed hawks.

Almost 4 million great horned owls can be found in a wide variety of habitats across North America, including in Illinois. This species is often depicted as a wise figure in popular culture and storybooks.

The second-heaviest owl species in America after snowy owls, great horned owls are known for their hunting skills, big yellow eyes, deep hoots and the feather tufts on their heads. They nest as early as January, since their owlets need more time than other young birds to learn to hunt on their own ahead of the next winter, according to the Chicago Bird Alliance.

"They can handle a lot, and the fact that they're even making their way into a city, which is inherently a harsher environment than a nice, cozy forest preserve," Warden said. "These are already hardworking animals. They're doing their best to scrape out a living in what can be a really challenging space and environment."

Matt Igleski, executive director of the Chicago Bird Alliance, said that waking up nocturnal animals like great horned owls in the middle of the day is like waking up a person in the middle of the night, forcing them to run around and expecting them to perform well the next morning.

Especially during the winter, owls are "running a very tight energy budget," Warden said, and they need to make every calorie count to keep warm and survive. If they spend their time avoiding humans and fleeing drones, they are burning precious energy.

"And it's not hyperbole at all to say that if these birds are harassed enough, they can die from it," he said. "We've seen it happen many times before."

Snowy owls

Every winter, Chicagoans cross their fingers in hopes of spotting snowy owls in and around the city. Igleski said he has experienced plenty of impromptu sightings along the lakefront.

"When you do find one, all of a sudden it turns and it has eyes and you're like, 'Oh!'" he said. "It's just a big, chunky owl. And it's almost all white. And in the wintertime, it's just a scene that sort of feels very 'winter,' you know? It's hard to describe it, but it just puts you in that moment of: This is so cool, that we're sharing this cold day together."

Their visits are rare, which only heightens excitement around sightingsand leads to more encounters with humans.

The sporadic presence of these owls in northern U.S. states is hard to predict. Their loosely cyclic migration to the south, referred to as an "irruption," is decided by several factors including climate and inclement weather, food availability and population numbers.

For instance, when the Arctic lemming populationthe predator's main food sourceis abundant and allows many young snowy owls to feed and survive, intense competition for food leads many of them to migrate south to hunt for other prey like voles, mice and rabbits.

Warden said in the past decade, Illinois has seen only two big snowy owl irruptions: one in the winter of 201314 and another in the winter of 2017-18. During the latter, "well over a dozen" snowy owls were regularly seen throughout the Chicago area; at least three were often spotted on the Museum Campus.

Because they are often awake during the day and their white plumage makes them highly visible in the city, these northern visitors are easy for humans to findand disrupt.

Snowy owls are also susceptible to stress since they are young, often only six or seven months old, and have less experience and stamina than adults. After traveling thousands of miles, the full-grown birds may be more dehydrated and exhausted than they look.

The wintertime presence of snowy owls in Canada and the United States is already limited, but it might become even rarer as climate change affects Arctic food webs and wintering snowy owls remain closer to home.

"All these things kind of throw the traditional pattern into a less predictable pattern. And it all ties together to basically create less predictability and more chaos," Warden said.

Snowy owl populations sharply declined by 64% between 1970 and 2014, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature classified them as a "vulnerable" species in 2021.

"Can we point to climate change as the primary culprit? Probably not," Warden added. "But can we point to it as a culprit? Most certainly."

Climate change is an additional stressor that might make snowy owl irruptions less common.

"When you look at a snowy owl," Warden said, "that one owl is part of a picture. It's part of a population of birds that are working hard to survive and keep their species alive. And we know there's already pressures that are really making it harder for them to do that every year. So, if that means that we (should) go out of our way to make sure that the one we're seeing today can rest a little easier, why wouldn't we want to do that?"

Viewing owls

This bird's signature silent, wide-eyed stare can actually be a clear indicator of stress: If an owl looks at a person frequently, it probably means that person is too close.

"They're actually incredibly expressive and if you know how to read the signs, they tell you what they're thinking; they tell you how they feel about your presence," Warden said. "A great horned owl is  king in the food chains, but it's still going to be frightened of you. We are still the big boys on the block here."

If an owl's eyes are closed, half-closed or focused elsewhere, that's a good sign that, while the bird might be aware of a human's presence, it's not concerned about it.

When people spot an owl in the wild, they should be as quiet as possible and maintain their distance, using binoculars for viewing. Flash photography should always be avoided, especially after dark. Experts also suggest not sharing exact sighting locations to ensure the bird's safety.

"You don't want to be unnecessarily policing people for their interactions with wildlife," Warden said.

"I find that a lot of the time there is a disconnect in recognition. It's usually not somebody trying to be actively mean or hurtful when you find examples of harassment. So oftentimes, these kinds of things just involve somebody speaking up.  A lot of people are already kind of inherently prepared to have that degree of emotional connection and sympathy with the wildlife around themsometimes it takes a little hand-holding."

But then there are more extreme cases like the Keanes' interaction.

"I was so upset, and I kind of wish we had said more, maybe been more confrontational," Kathy Keane said. "I was so surprised that the man's response was literally excitement that he had scared and chased the owls away, that I think I didn't really know how to respond in the moment. But by the time I got home, I thought, 'This is so wrong, something has to be done.'"

According to Illinois law, it is illegal to "take, pursue or intentionally harass or disturb in any manner any wild birds or mammals by use or aid of any vehicle, conveyance, or unmanned aircraft." Violating this law is a Class A misdemeanor and punishable by a fine of at least $500 and up to $5,000.

"Per the Chicago Park District's Code, the use of apparatus for aviation, including drones, is prohibited on park property without a permit," said a district spokesperson in an emailed statement to the Tribune.

"The Code also provides that no person shall harass or harm in any manner any animal or bird on park property. Violators are subject to removal from the park. Chicago Park District security works closely with the Chicago Police Department to enforce Park District Code."

Urban coexistence

Igleski suggested those interested in viewing owls find trips and walks organized by local birding organizations, which can provide a space to learn about and observe them respectfully.

"Recognize that you both need that space," Igleski said. "We're not the only (creatures) that exist here, and we really do need to be more aware of the entirety of who is using these areas. It is not just for us, it is for these animals, and a lot of these populations have been either living here or migrating through here for thousands and thousands of years."

Owls and other animals like foxes and coyotes can be beneficial for city problems such as rodent infestationwhich has earned Chicago the title of "rattiest" city in America for nine straight years.

Warden said people need to remember animals lived in the area long before Chicago came along.

"So, you slap a major city in here, you're gonna see some (wildlife) try to come back in," he said. "There's well over 300 species of birds that are found in Chicagoland annually, at some point in the year. And that's truly a remarkable number and a remarkable testament to the fact that there is room for everybody, so to speak."

Kathy Keane said human boundaries are inevitably and increasingly going to "bump" into wildlife.

"As our urban areas expand, animals still have to have a place to live," she said. "We need to find a way to coexist respectfully."

2024 Chicago Tribune. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The Alaska Native village of Eklutna and Anchorage Assembly leaders are calling for the removal of the Eklutna River hydropower dam that provides cheap power in Southcentral Alaska, as electric utilities propose ways to reduce the dam's environmental harms.

The supporters of removing the dam say it would fully restore the river, and would not happen until replacement sources of renewable energy can be created.

The idea comes as the owners of the nearly 70-year-old damthe Chugach and Matanuska electric associations and the Anchorage Hydropower Utilityundertake a historic, legally required effort to mitigate its impacts.

But a representative for the utilities' effort says that a free-flowing Eklutna River could damage critical infrastructure, including the buried water pipe that delivers most of Anchorage's drinking water. It runs near and sometimes beneath much of the riverbed.

"This is stuff that we haven't really looked into in much detail yet, but with our current knowledge of that infrastructure and what it was designed for, this is raising red flags on our end," said Samantha Owen, who is managing the effort for the utilities through her employment with engineering firm McMillen Inc.

The utilities have released a different proposal to replenish most of the river with water. But it would not fully restore the river or the salmon that could inhabit the river's higher reaches.

The tribal government and Native village corporation for Eklutna, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage, say the removal would allow the river to flow freely for the first time in generations, providing salmon habitat along the entire waterway.

Assembly Vice Chair Meg Zaletel and Chair Chris Constant said in a recent editorial that they endorse the village's plan. Since replacement renewable energy would be built first, they say it would not affect taxpayers or ratepayers for at least a decade.

The idea would also address the cultural and environmental neglect that affected the village when the river largely dried up, affecting a source of fish for the village, said Aaron Leggett, tribal president.

The Eklutna organizations don't think a free-flowing river will put infrastructure at risk, he said.

"We've looked into that and we don't believe that that will be an issue," Leggett said. "But again, that's why if it takes 10 years, we can get all that sorted out right now. You know, in other words, let's not stop the process on this unrealized fear."

A 'very expensive' bill

The Eklutna Hydroelectric Project, consisting of the earthen dam at Eklutna Lake and other power-generating infrastructure, was built by the federal government in 1955, drying up most of the river. The project was later sold to the utilities under an agreement requiring the current mitigation effort.

The utilities have proposed a $57 million plan to restore water to 11 miles of the river, as early as 2027. The proposal would leave 1 mile of the river dry, downstream of the dam at Eklutna Lake. The plan calls for installing a valve at the municipal water pipe to replenish the river, without diminishing Anchorage's drinking water supply.

The proposal could bring four species of salmon into miles of river habitatbut it would likely do little to bring back sockeye salmon, a species that typically rears in lakes. The village also wants sockeye to thrive in the river.

The utilities say their plan balances a variety of interests. It would allow the hydropower plant to keep operating in perpetuity, providing what they say is the cheapest power in the region.

The utilities are currently seeking to increase their renewable power options as a looming shortage of locally produced natural gas threatens to reduce their main source of energy.

An initial review indicates the dam-removal idea could have catastrophic consequences, the utilities say.

Unbridled, the river could run with such force and volume that it could endanger bridges downstream and even scour and severely damage the Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility pipe that carries the city's drinking water from the lake, Owen said.

Bridges downstream could also be damaged during normal flow, and face more serious consequences in extreme flood events that might follow heavy rains, she said.

"The problem is that we now have a bunch of infrastructure below the riverbed and downstream of the lake outlet that wasn't designed to withstand (a naturally flowing river), including the railroad bridges, the highway bridges, and Anchorage's public water supply pipeline," she said.

Finding replacement power would not be easy, she said. Wind and solar power do not provide energy as consistently as the hydropower project, she said.

"If you want to replace it with another firm, renewable energy source, that would be another storage hydro project somewhere," she said. "We would need to go identify a new project, study it, license it, design it and construct it. And I will tell you that that bill could be very expensive."

The Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility in 2021 expressed concern that a reestablished Eklutna River could damage the 54-inch water main providing most of Anchorage's drinking water, according to a letter to Owen. The pipe runs along the river canyon, crossing underneath the channel or closely paralleling it at several locations, the letter says.

A water utility spokeswoman this past week referred a reporter to that letter.

Owen said the electric utilities' draft program will release water at levels that satisfy the water utility. "We've addressed AWWU's concerns to their satisfaction," she said. "We wouldn't have put out the draft program if AWWU hadn't signed off on what we're proposing."

Eklutna in recent months formally proposed removing the dam, and the electric utilities have just begun to look closely at that idea, Owen said.

The electric utilities plan to study the idea before proposing a final mitigation plan that will go to Gov. Mike Dunleavy in April, Owen said. She said the water utility is also taking a close look at the village's proposal, and should soon provide its analysis to the electric utilities.

Assembly support for dam removal

The Anchorage Assembly in December passed an ordinance setting municipal policy that calls for continuous flow of the river and fish restoration even at the lake, to the greatest extent possible.

"The Assembly over and over has endorsed restoration of the river, and has consistently demonstrated close alignment the Native Village of Eklutna," Constant said in an interview Thursday.

He said solutions can be engineered to protect the water pipe and bridges.

There's no way the Assembly would ever agree to a plan that would threaten the city's water system, he said.

"That's not rational," he said. "And so, to me, the question itself is like a red herring to distract us from where we're going. We're not going to do one thing in place of another, we have to figure out a solution that incorporates the needs of all of the systems."

It's likely the Assembly will pass a resolution soon that will provide formal comment on the utilities' draft plan, he said.

Zaletel said the Assembly has hired an expert who once worked for the Eklutna hydropower project to analyze the utilities' proposed draft program to ensure it will not threaten the city's drinking water, among other concerns.

"I don't want this to be a half-measure," she said. "I want to make sure it takes care of three things, power, our water supply and restoring wildlife. Right now it feels like it falls short."

The Conservation Fund and Trout Unlimited support the village's proposal to remove the dam, and will help secure funding to remove it, Leggett said.

About five years ago, the Conservation Fund teamed up with the village to raise $7.5 million and remove an even older, unused concrete hydropower dam on the lower river.

Brad Meiklejohn, a senior Alaska representative for The Conservation Fund, said he believes the pipeline is buried deep enough that it should be safe from damage. Additional protections can be created, if needed, he said. The bridges can also withstand strong river flows, but can be strengthened, too, he said.

The village has remained steadfast in wanting full restoration of the Eklutna River, Leggett said. Eklutna has long provided land that has helped Anchorage grow, such as school and power plant sites and utility easements.

Those concessions benefited the city, he said.

"Can it finally be our turn?" he asked.

The utilities' draft plan receives public comment through Feb. 19. The governor is expected to decide the matter late this year, based on the process in the 1991 agreement.

2024 Anchorage Daily News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Quattrone Center for the Fair Administration of Justice/University of Pennsylvania

A new research report providing the first-ever comprehensive analysis of presumptive drug field test usage across law enforcement agencies in the United States has been released by the Quattrone Center for the Fair Administration of Justice at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.

Utilizing a nationwide survey of agencies, the report, "Guilty Until Proven Innocent: Field Drug Tests and Wrongful Convictions," shows that the use of presumptive field tests in drug arrests is one of the largest, if not the largest, known contributing factor to wrongful arrests and convictions.

The report uses survey data and annual national estimates of drug arrests to examine the impact of the tests on wrongful arrests and racial disparities, and their subsequent impact on prosecutions and criminal convictions.

According to the report, approximately 773,000 of the more than 1.5 million drug arrests conducted in the United States each year involve the use of color-based presumptive tests, despite the known accuracy issues associated with the tests (e.g., false positives indicating the presence of an illegal drug where none exists).

While the true error rate of these tests remains unknown, the available data suggests that around 30,000 people who do not possess controlled substances are falsely implicated by these tests and arrested each year.

"Presumptive field drug test kits are known to produce 'false positive' errors and were never designed or intended to provide conclusive evidence of the presence of drugs," says Ross Miller, Quattrone Center Assistant Director and lead author of the report.

"But in our criminal legal system, where plea bargaining is the norm and actual fact-finding by trial is exceedingly rare, these error-prone tests have become de facto determinants of guilt in a substantial share of criminal cases in the United States and, as a result, a significant cause of wrongful convictions."

Although originally developed as a preliminary-only testing method due to their unreliability and unknown false-positive rate, widespread use of these tests has negatively impacted the entire criminal justice process. Almost 90% of prosecutors surveyed by the Quattrone Center reported that guilty pleas are permitted in their jurisdictions without verification of the field test by an accredited toxicology laboratory.

Further, 67% of drug labs in the national sample reported that they are not asked to review samples when the case is resolved by plea agreements, and 24% do not receive samples for testing when there are field test results available. Even when labs do receive samples, 46% reported that they do not conduct a confirmatory test if a guilty plea has already been filed for a case.

The report also details racially disparate impacts resulting from these tests, finding that a Black individual is three times more likely to experience a drug arrest with a false positive from a field test compared to a white individual.

"Every year, tens of thousands of innocent Americans are arrested on the basis of $2.00 roadside drug test kits that are known to give false positives. Now, this landmark study by the Quattrone Center demonstrates the scope of the harm done by these inaccurate test kits, including the disproportionate impact to African Americans," says Des Walsh, Founder of the Roadside Drug Test Innocence Alliance.

"Based on this study, we look forward to working with law enforcement and other interested parties to implement policies and adopt better testing techniques to substantially reduce the tragic number of innocent people arrested and convicted because of these false tests."

To combat wrongful convictions and de-emphasize the reliance on error-prone field testing in arrests, the report recommends several policy reforms, including conducting regular blind audits of cases using field drug tests to establish error rates. The report further encourages police to "cite and release" people who are arrested for drug possessionpending confirmatory lab testsas the consequences of an arrest, like detention, can coerce a high rate of pleas from the innocent.

The report also recommends requiring confirmatory testing whenever a guilty plea is accepted while providing a right to withdraw the guilty plea following a finding that there was no controlled substance present. Finally, it advocates for limiting or forbidding the use of field drug tests and/or using more accurate tests.

"The relative volume of drug cases in criminal cases overall, combined with the widespread reliance on error-prone field testing in arrests, indicate that this is a significant and underexplored vector for wrongful convictions," adds Quattrone Center Academic Director and Professor of Law Paul Heaton.

"Law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and the public all want an accurate criminal adjudication process. Reforming how presumptive tests are used could advance this shared goal."

More information: Guilty Until Proven Innocent: Field Drug Tests and Wrongful Convictions. www.law.upenn.edu/institutes/q  eld-drug-test-study/
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

Indonesia's Mount Merapi erupted Sunday, spreading searing gas clouds and avalanches of lava down its slopes as other active volcanoes flared up across the country, forcing the evacuation of thousands.

On the densely populated island of Java, Merapi unleashed clouds of hot ash and a mixture of rock, and lava that traveled up to 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) down its slopes, said Agus Budi Santoso, the head of Indonesia's Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Center. A column of hot clouds blasted 100 meters (about 109 yards) into the air as ash blanketed several villages without casualties, he added.

Merapi is the most active out of more than 120 volcanoes across the country. Sunday's eruption is the latest since authorities raised its alert level to the second-highest in November 2020 after sensors picked up increasing activity. Residents living on the slopes were advised to stay 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) away from the crater's mouth and be aware of possible threats from flowing lava.

In 2010, an eruption killed 347 people and displaced 20,000 villagers.

The 2,968-meter (9,737-foot) mountain is about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Yogyakarta, an ancient center of Javanese culture and the seat of royal dynasties going back centuries. About a quarter million people live within 10 kilometers (6 miles) of the volcano.

Several other active volcanoes also blew up this weekend, prompting authorities to evacuate thousands of residents, said Indonesia's Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation in a statement released on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. No casualties were reported, it said.

The agency said Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Nusa Tenggara province spewed hot clouds as high as 700 meters (2,300 feet) into the air on Sunday, as more than 6,500 people fled to shelters.

Also on Sunday, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province erupted again, its third biggest flare-up this month, albeit without discharging lava. About 500 residents living near it were evacuated. Last month, it erupted, killing 23 climbers and injuring several others.

Mount Semeru in East Java province released searing gas clouds and rivers of lava on Saturday, as did Mount Ibu on Halmahera island in North Maluku province which shot a column of hot ashes as high as 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) into the air.

In December 2021, Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java island, erupted, leaving 48 people dead and 36 missing.

Indonesia, an archipelago of 270 million people, is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity because it sits along the "Ring of Fire," a horseshoe-shaped series of seismic fault lines around the Pacific Ocean.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
A third grader works on a computer project in an English Language Arts class at Commonwealth Elementary School, 4909 Commonwealth Blvd., Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Sugar Land. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer

For nearly two decades, the Houston-based education nonprofit Children at Risk has produced annual rankings of Texas schools aimed at helping parents, educators and the community understand how schools are performing and where they can improve.

With the 2023 rankings officially out, heres what to know about how the nonprofit calculates its scores, and how they are different from the Texas Education Agency:

How Children at Risk grades differ from Texas Education Agency ratings

Children At Risks grades use similar elements as those used by TEA to determine school performance  primarily standardized test scores  but there are some key differences. Broadly speaking, Children At Risk weighs elements differently than TEA when calculating the scores that each schools grade is derived from.

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For elementary and middle schools, the Texas nonprofit assigns scores using three metrics from each schools STAAR scores: raw student achievement, achievement relative to poverty levels, and year-over-year student growth. High schools are also ranked on a fourth metric, college readiness, which evaluates how well schools are preparing their students for college. TEA ratings also look at military and career readiness, metrics that Children At Risk does not factor into their scores.

In addition to a grade, Children At Risk also assigns rankings to each school in its annual data, something TEA does not do. The ranks are assigned by comparing school scores among campuses with similar levels (i.e. elementary schools are compared to other elementary schools) to show how each school performed relative to other elementary, middle and high schools.

Whats changed this year

Children at Risk awards a Gold Ribbon designation to high-need campuses that outperform their peers.

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In this years ratings, Children At Risk changed the requirements a school must meet to qualify for the Gold Ribbon designation to exclude any campus that has an application process for enrollment. Children At Risk said its aim was to recognize schools that meet students where they are, and this years aim is to eliminate campuses that have the ability to pre-select higher-achieving students. As in previous years, charters and magnet schools are ineligible for the gold ribbon designation.

How does Children at Risk calculate scores and how are they different from TEA accountability scores?

Overall scores are calculated based on the average scores the campus receives for each metric. The metrics used depend on the grade level of the school.

Elementary and middle schools:

Student Achievement Score

Campus Performance Score

Average Growth Score

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High schools:



Student Achievement Score

Campus Performance Score

Average Growth Score

College readiness

Unlike TEA ratings, Children At Risk does not include military or career readiness in its high school scoring metrics. Bob Sanborn, Children At Risks president and CEO, said that the nonprofit is focused on breaking the cycle of poverty for Texas children and that the data supports college-attendance as a critical component in meeting that goal.

How does Children at Risk assign grades?

Each campus is assigned a general letter grade  such as A, or B  based on its overall score calculation. After campuses have been assigned a general letter grade, Children At Risk then divides the range of overall scores for each letter grade into thirds to assign plus and minus grades. The top third of overall scores become plus grades and the bottom third become minus grades. The ranges are different for elementary, middle and high schools because they are based on the unique sample of scores for the years schools at each level.

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How does Children at Risk assign ranks?

Each elementary, middle and high schools overall score is compared with other schools in the state to assign its rank.

What is a Gold Ribbon school?

Children at Risk awards a Gold Ribbon designation to high-need campuses that outperform their peers. To qualify for the designation, at least 75 percent of a campus' students must be low-income and the school must receive an A or a B in the nonprofits annual school rankings. In 2023s ratings, any school with an application process to attend has also been excluded.

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What schools are excluded from rankings?

Children At Risk excludes the following campuses from their annual rankings:
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

Imagine a world where legal research is conducted by lightning-fast algorithms, mountains of contracts are reviewed in minutes and legal briefs are drafted with the eloquence of Shakespeare. This is the future promised by AI in legal practice. Indeed, AI tools are transforming this landscape already, venturing from science fiction into the everyday realities of lawyers and legal professionals.

However, this advancement raises ethical and regulatory concerns that threaten the very foundation of the justice system. At a time when the Post Office Horizon scandal has shown how a trusted institution can quickly wreck its reputation after introducing an opaque algorithmic system, it's important to anticipate potential pitfalls and address them in advance.

We've already seen generative AI used at the highest levels of the profession. Lord Justice Birss, deputy head of civil justice in England and Wales, disclosed a few months ago that he had used ChatGPT to summarize an area of law, then incorporated it into his judgment. This marked the first instance of a British judge using an AI chatbotand it's just the tip of the iceberg.

For instance, I'm aware of one colleague, a property lawyer, using an AI contract analysis tool to discover a hidden clause in a land dispute case. I also know a lawyer who was facing an overwhelming amount of evidence in an environmental law claim and used an AI-powered document review. It sifted through thousands of documents, pinpointing key evidence that ultimately secured a substantial settlement for the client.

To date, the fastest adopters of generative AI in the legal profession have been lawyers working in-house for large companies, with 17% using the technology, according to legal analytics giant LexisNexis. Law firms are not far behind, with around 12% to 13% using the technology. In-house teams may be ahead because they are more motivated to save costs.

But large law firms look set to catch up on in-house legal teams, with around 64% actively exploring this technology, compared to 47% of in-house teams and around 33% of smaller legal practices. In the future, large law firms may specialize in specific AI tools or develop in-house expertise, offering these services as a competitive advantage.

The vast majority of lawyers think this technology will have a discernible effect, according to a 2023 LexisNexis survey of over 1,000 UK legal professionals. Of these, 38% said it would be "significant," while another 11% said "transformative." Most respondents (67%) thought there would be a mixture of positive and negative effects, however, compared to only 14% who were wholly positive and 8% who were more negative.

AI in action

Here are some examples of what is arriving.

Legal research: AI-powered research platforms like Westlaw Edge and Lex Machina can now scan vast legal databases, identifying relevant cases and statutes with pinpoint accuracy.

Document review: tools like Kira and eDiscovery can now sift through many documents, highlighting key clauses, extracting vital information and identifying inconsistencies.

Case prediction: companies like Solomonic and LegalSifter are developing AI models that can analyse past court decisions to predict the likelihood of success in certain types of cases. Still in their infancy, these tools offer valuable insights for strategic planning and settlement negotiations.

Bail and sentencing: tools such as Compas and Equivant are now employing AI to help practitioners with these decisions.

These advancements hold immense potential for improving efficiency, reducing costs and democratizing access to legal services. So what about the challenges?

Ethical and regulatory concerns

AI algorithms are trained on datasets, which can reflect and amplify societal biases. For example, if a city has a history of over-policing certain neighborhoods, an algorithm may recommend higher bail amounts for defendants from those areas, regardless of the risk of flight or re-offending.

Similar biases could affect the use of AI to hire lawyers within firms. There is also the potential for skewed results from the tools for legal research, document review and case prediction.

Equally, it can be difficult to understand how an AI arrived at a particular conclusion. This could undermine trust in lawyers and raise concerns about accountability. At the same time, over-reliance on AI tools might undermine lawyers' own professional judgment and critical thinking skills.

Without proper regulations and oversight, there is also a risk of misuse and manipulation of these tools, jeopardizing the fundamental principles of justice. In trials, for example, skewed training data may disadvantage trial participants based on factors unrelated to the case.

The way forward

Here's how we should address these issues.

1. Bias

We can mitigate by training AI models on datasets that represent the diversity of society, including race, gender, socioeconomic status and geographical location. Frequent and systematic audits of AI algorithms and models should also be conducted to detect biases.

AI developers such as OpenAI are already taking such steps, but it's very much a work in progress and the results need to be monitored carefully.

2. Transparency

Developers such as IBM are devising a class of techniques and technologies known as explainable AI (XAI) tools to demystify the decision-making processes of AI algorithms. These need to be used to develop transparency reports for individual tools.

Full transparency on every neural connection may be unrealistic, but things like data sources and the AI's general functionalities need to be visible.

3. Regulations and oversight

Clear legal guidelines are essential. This should include prohibiting AI tools trained on biased data, mandating transparency and traceability of data sources and algorithms, and establishing independent oversight bodies to audit and assess AI tools.

Ethics committees could provide additional oversight for the legal profession. These could be entirely independent, though they would be better established and overseen by a body like the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

In short, the rise of AI in legal practice is inevitable. Ultimately, the goal is not to replace lawyers with robots but to empower legal professionals so that they can focus more on the human aspects of law: empathy, advocacy and pursuing justice. It is time to ensure this transformative technology serves as a force for good, upholding the pillars of justice and fairness in the digital age.

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Benito the giraffe is fed before his long journey from Ciudad Juarez in northern Mexico to a safari park in the central state of Puebla.

A "lonely" giraffe living in harsh conditions in northern Mexico is heading to a safari park to begin a new life after a campaign by animal rights activists.

The male giraffe named Benito began the roughly 2,000-kilometer (1,200- mile) journey on Sunday from Ciudad Juarez near the Mexican-US border to Africam Safari in the central state of Puebla.

According to the zoo management, he will live with other giraffes in conditions more similar to his natural habitat.

"It's important that Benito be in favorable conditions, in an enclosure where he can be with a controlled temperature, with all the food he needs," said Africam Safari director Frank Camacho.

"We're going to incorporate Benito in a very big herd, very heterogeneous, where there are adults and youngsters," he added.

The road trip, in a special trailer accompanied by a team of experts, is expected to take about 50 hours in total.

The move follows a campaign by conservationists who criticized the unsuitable living conditions in Ciudad Juarez, where the giraffe was at the mercy of extreme temperatures.

In mid-January, a judge ordered that Benito be sent to Puebla.

"Today's a very happy day for us," said Maria Ruiz Varela, a member of the "Let's Save Benito" campaign.

Benito the giraffe is prepared for a road journey of roughly 2,000 kilometers to his new home.

"It's the culmination of almost nine months of hard work, trying to make the citizens aware, and asking the government to listen to our pleas, to let Benito go to a sanctuary, to a better place where he could have a good quality of life," she added.

The campaign won the backing of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), a US-based animal rights group, which urged its supporters to "speak out for a lonely giraffe in Mexico."

It said that Benito had been living alone in a "trash-strewn enclosure lacking grass, shade, and appropriate shelter in a region that experiences extreme weather conditions."

 2024 AFP
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UC Riverside biologist and paper first author Phillip Sternes holding a Megalodon tooth. Credit: Douglas Long/California Academy of Sciences

A new study shows the Megalodon, a gigantic shark that went extinct 3.6 million years ago, was more slender than earlier studies suggested. This finding changes scientists' understanding of Megalodon behavior, ancient ocean life, and why the sharks went extinct.

The Megalodon or megatooth shark is typically portrayed as a super-sized monster in popular culture, with recent examples in the sci-fi films "The Meg" (2018) and "Meg 2: The Trench" (2023). Previous studies assume that the shark likely reached lengths of at least 50 feet and possibly as much as 65 feet.

However, the Megalodon is largely known only from its teeth and vertebrae in the fossil recorda rather incomplete set of data from which to draw assumptions. Thus, the modern great white shark was traditionally used as a model for Megalodon bodies in previous studies. That model led researchers to conclude that the shark was round and stocky like great whites.

"Our team reexamined the fossil record, and discovered the Megalodon was more slender and possibly even longer than we thought. Therefore, a better model might be the modern mako shark," said UCR biologist and paper first author Phillip Sternes. "It still would have been a formidable predator at the top of the ancient marine food chain, but it would have behaved differently based on this new understanding of its body."

For the new study published in the journal Palaeontologia Electronica, a team of 26 scientists from around the world, co-led by Sternes and DePaul University paleobiology professor Kenshu Shimada, was inspired by differences in previously estimated body lengths for the Megalodon.

"It was a 'eureka-moment' when our research team realized the discrepancy between two previously published lengths for the same Megalodon specimen," said Shimada.

The team then weighed in on a new comparison of Megalodon vertebra fossils to those of living lamniform shark relatives. "We measured the whole vertebral skeleton of a living great white shark with a CT scanner and compared that to the previous reconstruction of the Megalodon vertebral column," Sternes said.

Study sheds new light on the body form of the Megalodon, and its role in shaping ancient marine life. Credit: DePaul University/Kenshu Shimada

"It was still a giant, predatory shark. But the results strongly suggest that the Megalodon was not merely a larger version of the modern great white shark."

A revised understanding of the Megalodon body type would in turn affect scientists' understanding not only of the giant shark itself, but also of its impact on the ecology and evolution of marine ecosystems that shaped the present-day oceans.

There is no doubt the Megalodon is one of the largest marine predators ever to have lived. But a slimmer and more elongated body would suggest the Megalodon also had a longer digestive canal. Sternes explained that in this case, the sharks might have enjoyed enhanced absorption of nutrients, and may not have had to eat as often as previously believed.

"With increased ability to digest its food, it could have gone for longer without needing to hunt. This means less predation pressure on other marine creatures," Sternes said. "If I only have to eat one whale every so often, whale populations would remain more stable over time."

Some shark scientists have theorized that a natural decrease in prey led to the extinction of Megalodons. However, Sternes has another theory, in part supported by the revised understanding of its shape.

"I believe there were a combination of factors that led to the extinction, but one of them may have been the emergence of the great white shark, which was possibly more agile, making it an even better predator than the Megalodon," Sternes said. "That competition for food may have been a major factor in its demise."

The research team of shark experts from the U.S., UK, Austria, France, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, and Australia all feel that a revised understanding of ancient marine life would have a cascading effect on the oceans that are still visible today.

"Now that we know it was a thinner shark, we need to reinvestigate its lifestyle, how it really lived, and what caused it to die," Sternes said. "This study represents a major stepping stone for others to follow up on."

More information: White shark comparison reveals a slender body for the extinct megatooth shark, Otodus megalodon (Lamniformes: Otodontidae), Palaeontologia Electronica (2024). DOI: 10.26879/1345 Journal information: Palaeontologia electronica
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Roads and drains in Lagos are littered with plastic waste.

Nigeria's Lagos State, which includes the country's sprawling economic capital of more than 20 million people, has announced a ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics to curb pollution.

The state government said in a statement Sunday the ban would take effect immediately but environmental experts said implementing and enforcing it could be complicated.

Many street vendors and markets in Lagos use styrofoam containers to serve and deliver food or produce and the plastic and other containers litter roads and block drains in the megapolis.

"Following the menace which single-use plastics especially non-biodegradable Styrofoam are causing on the environment, the Lagos State government... is hereby announcing a ban on the usage and distribution of Styrofoam and other single-use plastics," the Lagos environment comissioner said on X.

Some Nigerians welcomed the initiative, but others questioned its implementation and what the alternative would be for traders and manufacturers.

Folawemi Umunna, co-founder of Climate and Ecological Protection Initiative, said the move was positive if the program was properly implemented.

"This is wonderful news for the environment on different levels and if this is effectively executed, capable of reducing a substantial amount of CO 2 emissions in tonnes in the Lagos State perimeter," she said.

"This is beside the social menace of blocking drainages and negatively affecting marine biodiversity."

Sitting between lagoons and the Atlantic Ocean, Lagos faces a mix of climate-related problems, with many parts already densely populated and at risk from flooding.

Other African countries such as Kenya and Uganda have attempted bans on plastic bags.

The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) estimates the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks of plastic is dumped into the seas, rivers and lakes every day.

Each year around 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into the world's water ecosystems. UNEP says.

 2024 AFP
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Mean-field energy and bubble formation. The cloud is initially prepared in the FV with all the atoms in | (A). Although the single | spin state is energetically lower (E  E  ) in the center of the cloud, the situation is the opposite in the low-density tails. The interface (domain wall) between ferromagnetic regions with opposite magnetization has positive (kinetic) energy, which adds up to the double minimum energy landscape emerging from the ferromagnetic interaction. Macroscopic tunneling can take place resonantly to the bubble state (B), which has a | bubble in the center. The core energy gain compensates for the domain-wall energy cost. The barrier crossing can be triggered by quantum fluctuations in the zero-temperature case (full arrow) or by thermal fluctuations at finite temperature (empty arrow). After the tunneling process, the bubble increases in size in the presence of dissipation to reach the true vacuum (TV) state (C), without coming back to (A). Credit: Nature Physics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-023-02345-4

An experiment conducted in Italy, with theory support from Newcastle University, has produced the first experimental evidence of vacuum decay.

In quantum field theory, when a not-so-stable state transforms into the true stable state, it's called "false vacuum decay." This happens through the creation of small localized bubbles. While existing theoretical work can predict how often this bubble formation occurs, there hasn't been much experimental evidence.

The ultracold atoms lab of the Pitaevskii Center for Bose-Einstein Condensation in Trento reports for the first time the observation of phenomena related to the stability of our universe. The results arise from the collaboration among the University of Newcastle, the National Institute of Optics of CNR, the Physics Department of the University of Trento and Tifpa-Infn, and it has been published in Nature Physics.

The results are supported by both theoretical simulations and numerical models, confirming the quantum field origin of the decay and its thermal activation, opening the way to the emulation of out-of-equilibrium quantum field phenomena in atomic systems.

The experiment uses a supercooled gas at a temperature of less than a microKelvin from absolute zero. At this temperature, bubbles are seen to emerge as the vacuum decays and the Newcastle University's Professor Ian Moss and Dr. Tom Billam were able to show conclusively that these bubbles are a result of thermally activated vacuum decay.

Ian Moss, Professor of Theoretical Cosmology at Newcastle University's School of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics, said, "Vacuum decay is thought to play a central role in the creation of space, time and matter in the Big Bang, but until now there has been no experimental test. In particle physics, vacuum decay of the Higgs boson would alter the laws of physics, producing what has been described as the 'ultimate ecological catastrophe.'"

Dr. Tom Billam, Senior Lecturer in Applied Math/Quantum, added, "Using the power of ultracold atom experiments to simulate analogs of quantum physics in other systemsin this case the early universe itselfis a very exciting area of research at the moment."

The research opens up new avenues in the understanding of the early universe, as well as ferromagnetic quantum phase transitions.

This groundbreaking experiment is only the first step in exploring vacuum decay. The ultimate goal to is find vacuum decay at the temperature of absolute zero where the process is driven purely by quantum vacuum fluctuations. An experiment in Cambridge, supported by Newcastle as part of a national collaboration QSimFP, aims to do just this.

More information: A. Zenesini et al, False vacuum decay via bubble formation in ferromagnetic superfluids, Nature Physics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41567-023-02345-4 Journal information: Nature Physics
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A study saw racialized students in Ontario French immersion programs write monologues and stories about their experiences, and also invited immersion stakeholders like teachers and parents to give feedback on race and racism in Ontario immersion programs. Credit: CDC

Debates among researchers, educators and parents continue about the successes and challenges with French immersion programs across English-speaking parts of Canada.

Programs are criticized for being elitist by some and praised for being exceptional by others.

My master's research showed how Ontario and Toronto French immersion policies exacerbate inequities, finding that program locations favored middle-class students, curricula demonstrated a Eurocentric focus and colonial lens and program entry-points favored established residents over newcomers.

My Ph.D. work research has relied upon a collective creation research method known as "playbuilding" to propose ways French immersion programs can be more culturally responsive and anti-racist.

Issues in French immersion

Research about students in Alberta has shown that language levels of French immersion graduates are low and many lack confidence in their French skills.

French immersion programs have been known to exclude many students, particularly those with special education needs, multilingual learners, immigrants and lower-income students. In the past, some immersion programs even required IQ testing for admission.

With immersion programs in Toronto mainly found in white, middle-class areas, it is unsurprising that white, middle-class students are the most present in Toronto programs.

In the Toronto District School Board, research about French immersion enrollment shows inequitable demographics have been improving in terms of racial and multilingual representation of enrolled students. However, it also shows programs remain dominated by white, middle-class, anglophone students with few learning exceptionalities.

Documenting student experiences

French immersion is a heavily researched program; however, research has largely ignored racial identity and racism.

I invited French immersion stakeholders (like teachers, parents, staff and professors in teacher education programs) to engage with stories of racial minority students in Ontario French immersion programs, and my own experiences as a racialized French immersion teacher.

Firstly, my online study recruited two Black and one South Asian French immersion students from Ontario, aged 1620. Over the course of two weeks, participants created monologs and wrote stories about their experiences as racial minority students in French immersion programs. Stories and monologs are available on our website.

In the second stage of research, 39 French immersion stakeholders (students, teachers, parents, staff and professors in teacher education programs) viewed our website and responded to an online survey reacting to stories and suggestions for improving immersion. The findings from stage two support the findings from stage one.

Cultural learning and representation

Cultural learning is required by the French as a second language (including French immersion) curriculum. Each grade focuses on different local or global cultures to help develop students' intercultural competence.

For example, Grade 1 French immersion focuses on local francophone communities, Grade 8 focuses on France and Grade 10 focuses on French-speaking Africa and Asia. No matter the cultural focus, the curriculum calls for the inclusion of "diverse French speaking communities" in every grade.

Students in my study recounted that they did not learn about diverse French cultures. In some cases, they were not discussing culture at all. Students' own cultures and races were also absent from their learning.

The representation in students' learning was overwhelmingly white and European or Quebecois. The lack of diversity is not representative of the curriculum or the reality of the French speaking world, which is over 50 percent people of color.

Unchecked racism

In a racially structured and racist society, the presence of racism in immersion programs is hardly shocking. However, the participants revealed many instances where racism could have been interrupted and was not.

In general, participants' schools had a culture of racism where racist acts and speech (committed by students, teachers and administrators) were allowed to continue unchecked.

In many cases, teachers were not willing to intervene when racist incidents occurred in their French classes. In one case, a teacher even let a student use a racist French term repeatedly.

A few participants expressed that some teachers and administrators interrupt racism. However, even these teachers were not integrating anti-racist teaching (that is, integrating diverse racial representations and empowering students to combat racism and oppression).

Call for change

Students should not be subjected to racism and should be learning about the diverse realities of the French-speaking world so they can see themselves as legitimate French speakers.

Listening to the voices of racial minority students in French immersion programs in dialogue with research documenting program inequities is an important step towards creating more inclusive French immersion programs and schools.

The preliminary findings of my study, in conjunction with earlier research documenting a Eurocentric focus and colonial lens in Ontario and Toronto immersion programs, point to the need for supporting anti-racist and culturally responsive teaching and intercultural awareness to make programs more welcoming to all students.

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In his laboratory at the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies in Los Alamos, Michael Pettes and graduate research assistant Micah Vallin examine the vibrational signatures of a two-dimensional magnetic material under cryogenic conditions using a customized confocal Raman spectroscopy microscope. Credit: Los Alamos National Laboratory

New research into topological phases of matter may spur advances in innovative quantum devices. As described in a new paper published in the journal Nature Communications, a research team including Los Alamos National Laboratory scientists used a novel strain engineering approach to convert the material hafnium pentatelluride (HfTe 5 ) to a strong topological insulator phase, increasing its bulk electrical resistance while lowering it at the surface, a key to unlocking its quantum potential.

"I'm excited that our team was able to show that the elusive and much-sought-after topological surface states can be made to become a predominant electrical conduction pathway," said Michael Pettes, scientist with the Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (CINT) at the Laboratory.

"This is promising for the development of types of quantum optoelectronic devices, dark matter detectors and topologically protected devices such as quantum computers. And the methodology we demonstrate is compatible for experimentation on other quantum materials."

Strain engineering approach yields results

At the University of California, Irvine, members of the research team grew the HfTe 5 crystals and employed a strain engineering approachapplying mechanical force to the materialat cryogenic temperatures of 1.5 Kelvin, or approximately minus 457 degrees Fahrenheit.

At Pettes's CINT laboratory in Los Alamos, the samples underwent optical spectroscopy to image the sample at the sub-micron level. CINT researchers then performed angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy at the University of Tennessee, helping illuminate the effects of the strain engineering.

A close-up view of confocal Raman spectroscopy, in which a 532-nanometer laser (seen in green) is being used to probe the vibrational structure of van der Waals materials contained in a high vacuum cryostat at 3.8 Kelvin. Credit: Los Alamos National Laboratory

Pettes and Vallin work in their laboratory at CINT. Credit: Los Alamos National Laboratory

The research team realized that the strain engineering changed the behavior of HfTe 5 , turning it from a weak topological insulator to a strong topological insulator. That is, the material's bulk electrical resistivity, or resistance to letting electrical current pass through, increased by more than three orders of magnitude.

The material also saw its topological surface states dominate the electronic transport. Those properties could make HfTe 5 well-suited for quantum devices. The promising results also bode well for extending the strain engineering approach to the study of topological phase transitions in van der Waals materials and heterostructures, lattice-like structures characterized by a strong in-plane bond and a weak out-of-plane bond among the atoms or molecules, like the pages in a book.

When studied with a high magnetic field, the newly discovered topological property may help uncover phenomena related to exotic physics such as quantum anomalies, the unexplained breaking of symmetry in physics. New experiments being conducted at the Los Alamos National High Magnetic Field LaboratoryPulsed Field Facility subject HfTe 5 to strain under ultra-high magnetic fields up to 65 Tesla.

More information: Jinyu Liu et al, Controllable strain-driven topological phase transition and dominant surface-state transport in HfTe5, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44547-7 Journal information: Nature Communications
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Illustration of C. elegans curving toward regions with higher salt concentrations (left). Illustration of C. elegans and its dorsal (neck) motor neuron, SMBD (right). Credit: Matsumoto et al 2024

Joint research led by Ayaka Matsumoto and Yuichi Iino of the University of Tokyo demonstrates that temporal decrease in salt concentration leads to the activation of the neck motor neuron of roundworms, but only in a specific phase of its activity.

The activation adjusts the roundworm's trajectory toward higher salt concentrations. The finding pinpoints the neural mechanism by which roundworms integrate sensory and motor information, a first step toward understanding the neural mechanisms of navigation in more complex animals. The findings were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

It took human civilization thousands of years of concentrated effort to build (somewhat) self-driving vehicles. Yet even the simplest animals can integrate sensory information about their environments and adjust their movements accordingly. As such, the integration of sensory information and motor control is one of the most fundamental questions a biologist can tackle.

This is precisely what the research team decided to undertake using a species of roundworm called Caenorhabditis elegans. C. elegans' total of 302 neurons are completely mapped, making it possible to manipulate and observe the effects of a single neuron.

"Roundworms travel by curving slowly toward regions with higher salt concentrations," explains Matsumoto, the first author of the paper. "To control this curving behavior, roundworms need to detect the salt concentrations perpendicular to the path of their movements. However, they only have a single point 'sensor,' which makes it impossible for them to detect salt concentrations in space. Therefore, roundworms must be processing temporal changes in salt concentrations to recognize the preferred side."

A roundworm "clamped" in the head-swing chip, its head swinging back and forth as it is trying to navigate its environment. Credit: Matsumoto et al 2024

To investigate this hypothesis, the team used a "head-swing chip," a tiny device that allows the worms to move their heads freely. Then, the researchers observed how the animals "clamped" in this device reacted to increasing or decreasing salt concentrations.

Roundworms move around by contracting the muscles that run along the longer axis of their bodies. As a result, their heads swing back and forth between the direction of their stomachs (ventral side) and backs (dorsal side), eventually curving more toward the direction they intend to go.

Here, the researchers found that decreasing salt concentrations activated the dorsal neck neuron SMBD only in a specific phase of its activity, and its activity strongly correlated with neck swings. The activation of SMBD in response to a decrease in salt concentration corresponded to the timing when the neck was bending toward the ventral side. This suggested that SMBD detects the lower salt concentrations on the ventral side of the body.

Furthermore, the team revealed that artificial activation of SMBD during neck bending toward the ventral side made subsequent ventral neck bending shallower. Combining their results, the team inferred that SMBD plays a role not only in detecting changes in salt concentrations but also in suppressing neck bending toward the side with lower concentrations. It thus directs the worm toward higher salt concentrations.

"Even though we found that SMBD neuron integrates sensory and motor information, the molecular mechanisms of integration remain unknown," Matsumoto says, pointing to future research.

"Therefore, we are interested in what is going on inside the SMBD neuron while it senses salt concentration changes and neck movements. Also, we would love to look at the activity of all the neurons in the brain at the same time during navigation."
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Scientists used fluorescence microscopy to visualize human ACE2 proteins expressed on mouse cells after incubating the cells with fluorescently labeled SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (green). Left: a view through the middle of the cells with the arrow pointing to the cell membrane. Right: a view of the membrane surface from outside the cells. Blue fluorescence corresponds to DNA in the cell nuclei. Angela Kim of the NASA Space Radiation Laboratory users support group provided expert assistance with the microscopy. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory

A team of scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Brookhaven National Laboratory and Columbia University has demonstrated a way to produce large quantities of the receptor that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, binds to on the surface of human cells. That binding between the now-infamous viral spike protein and the human "ACE2" receptor is the first step of infection by the virus. Making functional human ACE2 protein in mouse cells gives scientists a new way to study these receptors and potentially put them to use. In addition, as described in a paper just published in the journal Virology, the method could facilitate the study of other complex proteins that have proven difficult to produce by other means.

The Brookhaven scientists' initial goal, early in the pandemic, was to make large amounts of human ACE2 and then attach the protein to nanoparticles. The ACE2-coated nanoparticles could then be tested as anti-viral therapeutics and/or as sensors for detecting virus particles.

"For either of these applications, you need large quantities of protein, and the protein has to be fully functional," said Brookhaven Lab virologist Paul Freimuth, who led the research in collaboration with scientists at Brookhaven Lab's Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN). "But making functional membrane proteins like ACE2 is particularly challenging because the process by which proteins are localized in the cell membrane is complex."

One reason is that these proteins are modified in various ways after they are synthesized and before they are inserted into the cell membrane. In particular, carbohydrate molecules added to the proteins play key roles in both how the long protein chain gets folded into its final 3D structure and how the protein functions in the membrane.

"Carbohydrates account for about one-third of the mass of ACE2 protein," Freimuth said.

The simplest cells scientists use to generate proteins artificially, namely bacteria, lack the enzymes for attaching those carbohydrate add-ons. So, the Brookhaven team turned to cells from mice, which, as mammals, are more like usand are thus able to do the same kind of carbohydrate processing. Mouse cells are known to be adept at picking up and expressing "foreign" genes. And while mouse cells also make an ACE2 receptor, the mouse version of the protein doesn't bind to the SARS-CoV-2 spike. That means the scientists would have an easy way to see if the mouse cells made the human ACE2 proteinby seeing if the spikes would bind to the cells.

Finding and expressing the ACE2 gene

To increase the chances that mouse cells would incorporate and read the human ACE2 gene correctly, the group used the intact gene. Genes from humans and other "higher organisms" contain lots of information in addition to the sequence of DNA that codes for the amino acid building blocks that make up a protein. This extra information helps to regulate gene structure and function within the cell's chromosomes.

The scientists searched libraries of cloned DNA fragments that were generated as part of the Human Genome Projecta DOE-sponsored effort to map out the locations of all the genes that make us humanto find a fragment that contained the intact ACE2 gene, complete with its embedded regulatory information. Then, they exposed mouse cells to nanoparticles coated with this DNA fragment plus the gene for another protein that makes cells resistant to a lethal antibiotic.

"In this case, the nanoparticles serve as a DNA-delivery agent that gets engulfed by cells so the DNA can potentially become integrated into the mouse cell chromosomes," Freimuth said. "To find the cells that picked up the foreign gene(s), we add the antibiotic to the cell cultures. Cells that failed to take up and express the antibiotic-resistance gene died, whereas those that acquired antibiotic resistance survived and grew into colonies."

The scientists expanded about 50 of those colonies into individual cultures and then tested them to determine how many had also picked up the human ACE2 gene and produced the human receptor protein.

Detecting protein production

"About 70% of the antibiotic-resistant colonies expressed the human ACE2 protein on the cell surface," Freimuth said. "Further analysis showed that these colonies contained, on average, 28 copies of the human ACE2 gene."

Brookhaven Lab virologist Paul Freimuth (rear) led the effort to transform mouse cells to express human ACE2 receptor proteins. Feiyue Teng (front) of the Lab's Center for Functional Nanomaterials assisted in the biology lab and explored nanoscience-based applications for the proteins. Credit: Roger Stoutenburgh/Brookhaven National Laboratory

Importantly, the mouse cells held onto the "foreign" ACE2 gene copies and kept making the human ACE2 protein encoded by these genes for at least 90 cell generations.

The level of human ACE2 protein produced by the cells was generally proportional to the number of ACE2 gene copies integrated into the mouse genome. Several of the mouse cell clones produced about 50 times more ACE2 than is normally present on mouse cells.

The scientists used a variety of methods to test whether the mouse-made human ACE2 proteins were functional. These included demonstrating that a "pseudovirus" containing the COVID spike proteinthat is, a non-pathogenic stand-in for SARS-CoV-2could bind to the receptors and infect the cells.

"These infectivity assays showed that the human ACE2 protein expressed on these mouse cells is fully functional," Freimuth said.

Uses and implications

Meanwhile, Oleg Gang and Feiyue Teng, study co-authors from CFN, explored various ways to create extracellular nano-vesicles enriched with decoy human ACE2 for the potential treatment of COVID-19. They are also investigating the placement of ACE2 proteins onto nanoparticles for potential applications in infection treatment or rapid virus detection.

"The challenge posed by ACE2-based nano-vesicles lies in enhancing their neutralization effect against SARS-CoV-2. We are also looking for ways to enhance and leverage the binding sensitivity and specificity of ACE2-coupled nanoparticles to make them useful for virus diagnostics. Both approaches would require future optimization efforts," said Teng, a research associate at CFN who worked extensively on both the biological aspects of this study and the potential nanoscience-based applications.

"We are excited to combine advances in nanomaterial fabrication with biomolecular approaches for developing new therapeutic and sensing strategies," said Gang, who holds a joint appointment at Columbia University. "This study allowed us to overcome some methodological problems since nanomaterials and biosystems required quite different characterization approaches. What we have learned here is important for our next steps in enhancing nanoparticle-based biosensing."

In addition to enabling possible applications of recombinant ACE2 protein, the work also demonstrates a novel approach for producing a wide range of complex proteins. Examples include the vast array of cell-surface receptors that mediate countless biological and disease processes, as well as industrially important proteins such as monoclonal antibodies and enzymes.

"Our method of using intact genes along with mouse cells that can be adapted to grow in huge suspension culturesmuch like the liquid broth cultures used to grow bacteriacould advance the large-scale production of these and other important proteins," Freimuth said.

More information: Feiyue Teng et al, Overexpression of human ACE2 protein in mouse fibroblasts stably transfected with the intact ACE2 gene, Virology (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.109988 Journal information: Virology
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Partial skeleton of gliding reptile Kuehneosaurus on rock from Emborough. Credit: David Whiteside

Gliding winged-reptiles were among the ancient crocodile residents of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, researchers at the University of Bristol have revealed.

Kuehneosaurs looked like lizards, but were more closely related to the ancestors of crocodilians and dinosaurs. They were small animals that could fit neatly on the palm of a hand, and there were two species, one with extensive wings, the other with shorter wings, made from a layer of skin stretched over their elongated side ribs, which allowed them to swoop from tree to tree.

Like the modern flying lizard Draco from southeast Asia, they most likely wandered about on the ground and climbed trees in search of insect prey. When startled, or if they spotted a tasty insect flying by, they could launch themselves into the air, and land safely 10m away.

The discovery was made by University of Bristol Masters student Mike Cawthorne, researching numerous reptile fossils from limestone quarries, which formed the biggest sub-tropical island at the time, called the Mendip Palaeo-island.

The study, published in Proceedings of the Geologists' Association, also records the presence of reptiles with complex teeth, the trilophosaur Variodens and the aquatic Pachystropheus that probably lived a bit like a modern-day otter likely eating shrimps and small fish.

A Jawbone of unusual Triassic reptile Variodens first named from Emborough. B) Typical Emborough rock with many bones. C, D and E) bones from land-living relatives of crocodiles. Credit: David Whiteside

The animals either fell or their bones were washed into caves and cracks in the limestone.

"All the beasts were small," said Mike. "I had hoped to find some dinosaur bones, or even their isolated teeth, but in fact I found everything else but dinosaurs.

"The collections I studied had been made in the 1940s and 1950s when the quarries were still active, and paleontologists were able to visit and see fresh rock faces and speak to the quarrymen."

Professor Mike Benton Bristol's School of Earth Sciences explained, "It took a lot of work identifying the fossil bones, most of which were separate and not in a skeleton.

"However, we have a lot of comparative material, and Mike Cawthorne was able to compare the isolated jaws and other bones with more complete specimens from the other sites around Bristol.

"He has shown that the Mendip Palaeo-island, which extended from Frome in the east to Weston-super-Mare in the west, nearly 30 km long, was home to diverse small reptiles feeding on the plants and insects.

"He didn't find any dinosaur bones, but it's likely that they were there because we have found dinosaur bones in other locations of the same geological age around Bristol."

Artists impression of a gliding reptile Kuehneosaurus. Credit: Mike Cawthorne

The area around Bristol 200 million years ago in the Late Triassic was an archipelago of small islands set in a warm sub-tropical sea.

Bristol's Dr. David Whiteside added, "The bones were collected by some great fossil finders in the 1940s and 1950s including Tom Fry, an amateur collector working for Bristol University and who generally cycled to the quarries and returned laden with heavy bags of rocks.

"The other collectors were the gifted researchers Walter Kuhne, a German who was imprisoned in Great Britain in the 2nd world war, and Pamela L. Robinson from University College London. They gave their specimens to the Natural History Museum in London and the Geological collections of the University of Bristol."

More information: Michael Cawthorne et al, Latest Triassic terrestrial microvertebrate assemblages from caves on the Mendip palaeoisland, S.W. England, at Emborough, Batscombe and Highcroft Quarries, Proceedings of the Geologists' Association (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2023.12.003
A post office is seen Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, on North Shepherd Drive in Houston. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

U.S. Reps. Al Green and Sylvia Garcia in a letter addressed the controversy surrounding a U.S. Postal Service distribution center in Missouri City plagued by delays, according to a published report.

In their letter, Green and Garcia asked the facility to establish a customer service team to address the weekslong delays some Houston-area residents have experienced with the postal service, KHOU reported. USPS had previously told the Houston Chronicle the delays were related to the integration of its Delivering for America plan, which is trying to modernize the postal system.

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"We have been made aware of concerning lapses in delivery that are far more troubling for the citizens whose items have not been received through no fault of their own, including an instance in which a delivery of medication was delayed for over 10 days," the representatives wrote in their letter, according to KHOU. "Moreover, these persons have been unable to contact anyone at the South Houston Distribution Center to learn about the status of their delayed deliveries."

Green and Garcia said they would be touring the facility soon in response to calls to their district offices from Houston-area residents.

USPS customers around Houston have dealt with delays at the Missouri City facility for weeks now, with some even still missing deliveries from the holiday season that have yet to arrive. Along with calls to their congressional representatives, some residents have gone to social media to voice their displeasure with the delays.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

A remote camera captured an image of a deer in a higher vegetation area of Michigans northern Lower Peninsula. Credit: Ellen Candler, University of Minnesota

Whether or not wolves might affect hunting with bait has been a long-standing questiona recreational tradition that is controversial inside and outside the hunting community. While baiting increases the opportunity for a successful shot and more immediate kill, it creates a predictable food source that concentrates deer and deer scent, attracting wolves.

New research from the University of Minnesota, published in Ecology and Evolution, suggests that wolf scent at bait sites is actually less influential on deer activity than the overall habitat.

The researchers designed an experiment in two areas of Michigan, the Upper Peninsula (UP) and the northern Lower Peninsula (LP). These sites were selected because the UP has an established wolf population and deer that are experienced with predators, and the LP has no wolf population and deer that are comparatively naive to wolf predation.

The study compared control deer bait piles to those treated with wolf urine, and used remote cameras to record group size, vigilance, number of visits and activity patterns of deer.

They found:

Deer were less active during the evenings at wolf urine-treated sites in the UP. These results indicate that wolf scent may impact daily activity patterns of experienced deer, but otherwise does not affect deer at hunter bait piles.

When the researchers added vegetation cover to the equation, they saw a strong relationship in the UP between vegetation cover and deer vigilance, regardless of treatment type. As vegetation cover increased, deer became more vigilant, presumably because they could not see or easily detect an approaching predator and needed to look up more often to be vigilant.

Researchers did not see this same pattern in the LP where wolves are absent, presumably because deer have not had to worry about being vigilant for wolves.

"Though we expected to see more vigilance, larger group size and fewer visits by deer in response to wolf urine-treated sites in the UP, we did not see any biologically significant difference between the treatments in the LP or the UP," said lead author Ellen Candler, a postdoctoral researcher in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.

The results show that predator cues can affect deer vigilance at bait sites with denser vegetation, seemingly making deer more cautious and difficult to hunt and suggest that selecting more open hunting areas in locations where wolves occur may result in easier-to-target deer.

While this research focused on deer behavior at a predictable concentrated food source, future research could investigate the same behavioral reactions in states, like Minnesota, where baiting is not allowed.

More information: Ellen M. Candler et al, Eat or be eaten: Implications of potential exploitative competition between wolves and humans across predatorsavvy and predatornaive deer populations, Ecology and Evolution (2023). DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10694 Journal information: Ecology and Evolution
CIMERLI  *, a ranibizumab biosimilar, is interchangeable with LUCENTIS  ** (ranibizumab-injection) for all approved indications

*, a ranibizumab biosimilar, is interchangeable with LUCENTIS ** (ranibizumab-injection) for all approved indications Acquisition strengthens Sandoz ophthalmology portfolio

BASEL, Switzerland I January 22, 2024 I Sandoz, the global leader in generic and biosimilar medicines, has signed an agreement to acquire the US biosimilar ranibizumab CIMERLI* (ranibizumab-eqrn) from Coherus BioSciences, Inc. for an upfront cash purchase payment of USD 170 million. This is inclusive of a biologics license application, product inventory, ophthalmology sales and field reimbursement talent, as well as access to proprietary commercial software.

Keren Haruvi, President Sandoz North America, said: I am pleased that we can add another high-value product to the growing Sandoz biosimilar portfolio, further strengthening our existing ophthalmology franchise. The addition of CIMERLI reinforces our commitment to biosimilars and represents a huge step towards our goal of pioneering patient access to more affordable and much-needed medicines in the US.

Sandoz looks forward to providing even more treatment options for US patients with vision impairment and loss. The agreement to acquire the CIMERLI* business from Coherus allows us to build a more robust ophthalmic platform that would support future product launches.

Closing is anticipated in 1H 2024, subject to standard conditions and approvals.

About CIMERLI

CIMERLI* solution for injection 0.3 mg (6 mg/mL) and 0.5 mg (10 mg/mL) is an FDA-approved biosimilar to reference product LUCENTIS** (ranibizumab injection) that is indicated for the treatment of multiple retinal diseases including wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), macular edema following retinal vein occlusion (RVO), myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and diabetic retinopathy (DR).1 CIMERLI* is an anti-VEGF therapy within a class of biologics that helps retinal patients maintain or gain vision2. CIMERLI* was approved by the FDA in August 2022, having met FDAs rigorous standards of biosimilarity to the reference product, including safety, efficacy, and quality. Launched in October 2022, it is the first and only FDA-approved biosimilar interchangeable with LUCENTIS** for all indications.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATIONS

CIMERLI* (ranibizumab-eqrn) is interchangeable*** to LUCENTIS** (ranibizumab injection)

CIMERLI* (ranibizumab-eqrn), a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, is indicated for the treatment of patients with:

Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Macular Edema Following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

Diabetic Macular Edema (DME)

Diabetic Retinopathy (DR)

Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization (mCNV)

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Ocular or periocular infections

Hypersensitivity

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Endophthalmitis and retinal detachments may occur following intravitreal injections. Patients should be monitored following the injection.

Increases in intraocular pressure (IOP) have been noted both pre- and post-intravitreal injection.

There is a potential risk of arterial thromboembolic events following intravitreal use of VEGF inhibitors.

Fatal events occurred more frequently in patients with DME and DR at baseline, who were treated monthly with ranibizumab compared with control.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions (reported more frequently in ranibizumab-treated subjects than control subjects) are conjunctival hemorrhage, eye pain, vitreous floaters, and increased IOP.

For additional Safety Information, please see CIMERLI Full Prescribing Information available here.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Coherus BioSciences at 1-800-483-3692 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

*CIMERLI is a registered trademark of Coherus BioSciences, Inc.

**LUCENTIS is a registered trademark of Genentech USA, Inc.

***An interchangeable product (IP) is a biological product that is approved based on data demonstrating that it is highly similar to an FDA-approved reference product (RP) and that there are no clinically meaningful differences between the products; it can be expected to produce the same clinical result as the RP in any given patient; and if administered more than once to a patient, the risk in terms of safety or diminished efficacy from alternating or switching between use of the RP and IP is not greater than that from the RP without such alternation or switch. Interchangeability of CIMERLI* has been demonstrated for the condition(s) of use, strength(s), dosage form(s), and route(s) of administration described in its Full Prescribing Information

References

1. CIMERLI. Prescribing Information. Available at Prescribing Information.

2. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Anti-VEGF Treatments. July 26, 2023. Accessed January 19, 2024. Anti-VEGF Treatments  American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org).

About Sandoz

Sandoz (SIX: SDZ; OTCQX: SDZNY) is the global leader in generic and biosimilar medicines, with a growth strategy driven by its Purpose: pioneering access for patients. 22,000 people of more than 100 nationalities work together to bring Sandoz medicines to some 500 million patients worldwide, generating substantial global healthcare savings and an even larger total social impact. Its leading portfolio of more than 1,500 products addresses diseases from the common cold to cancer. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Sandoz traces its heritage back to the year 1886. Its history of breakthroughs includes Calcium Sandoz in 1929, the worlds first oral penicillin in 1951, and the first biosimilar in 2006. In 2022, Sandoz achieved sales of USD 9.1 billion and core EBITDA of USD 1.9 billion.

SOURCE: Sandoz
ATLANTIC CITY  Police arrested two men with guns during separate incidents Thursday.

Khalil Bass, 18, of Atlantic City, was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of hollow-point ammunition and possession of a large capacity magazine in an incident at a convenience store in the 600 block of New York Avenue.

Jaydin Taylor, 22, of Chester, Pennsylvania, was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a large capacity magazine, obstruction of justice, receiving stolen property, resisting arrest and escape in an incident in the 700 block of Drexel Avenue.

Detective Eric Evans received a tip about a man with a handgun in a convenience store at 11:03 a.m., police said Monday in a news release. Evans and other detectives found Bass in the store and arrested him after he was found with a loaded handgun in his waistband.

Later, officers responded to Drexel Avenue for a report of a man who was openly displaying a handgun at 5:19 p.m., police said. Officer Riley Flynn observed Taylor and another male walking in the area. Flynn attempted to speak with both males, who fled.

One male, a juvenile, initially tripped and was detained, police said. The juvenile was released into the custody of his mother.

Officers Edwin Maldonado and Syid Evans-White chased down Taylor and arrested him. Before officers could search Taylor, he broke free and attempted to run from the officers while handcuffed. He was quickly apprehended again, police said. Taylor was found in possession of a handgun that had been reported stolen from Camden County. He also was found to have several active warrants for his arrest.

Both men were sent to the Atlantic County jail.
LOWER TOWNSHIP  The second cannabis retailer in Cape May County is expected to open in February, as the once illegal market becomes increasingly commonplace.

Jimmy Singh, who owns the business with his wife, Melody Robinson, said work is underway at the Sea & Leaf store in the North Cape May shopping center at 3860 Bayshore Road. The business has been approved for a Class 5 cannabis license, meaning it will sell cannabis flower, concentrates and infused edibles, but will not grow cannabis at the site.

Lower, West Cape May and Middle Township have voted to allow cannabis sales in their communities, which will mean additional local revenue, as state law allows for an additional municipal tax on cannabis sales. There also are plans for a cannabis growing facility in Woodbine.

West Cape May saw the countys first legal weed sales with the opening of Shore House Canna on Sunset Boulevard last year.

Cannabis firm seeks Woodbine zoning approvals The Woodbine Zoning Board will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. Jan. 10 to consider a company's request to open a cannabis business in a former bookbinding factory located in the airport business zone.

Lower Township Mayor Frank Sippel said in a recent interview that the township sought to locate its cannabis business away from residential areas, while taking advantage of the potential revenue and economic benefit of the newly legal industry.

When the Township Council said yes to allowing cannabis businesses, several residents remained deeply skeptical, telling officials legal weed would bring more harm than good.

The licensing process for cannabis businesses takes time. New Jerseys Cannabis Regulatory Commission approved a conditional license for Sea & Leaf in September 2022.

Singh said the business must still pass a final inspection before sales can begin, which he expects to be completed shortly. The business has a Facebook page and a website, but for now there are few updates on the social media page, beyond a promise that news is coming soon, and the business website said it was offline this week, with the message We will be back with you shortly.
A Davenport woman arrested late Thursday and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm was living in the duplex where two people were found dead.

It is not known if the arrest of Adriana Maria Prieto is related to the deaths of Brian L. Goodwin and Amy M. Smith. The 44-year-olds were found dead inside a house in the 5200 block of North Division Street in Davenport.

The 26-year-old Prieto's arrest record lists her as living at the same address.

She was arrested at 11:51 p.m. Thursday. According to the affidavit, she "did knowingly possess a loaded firearm while seated in the passenger compartment of a 2015 Ford Explorer."

Prieto has a felony conviction for second-degree theft in Scott County and has multiple felony convictions in Iowa and Illinois.

She is being held on a total of $2.02 million bond  which includes a $1 million bond for the possession of a firearm charge and another $1 million bond for a probation violation. She also is wanted in Rock Island County for driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Goodwin and Smith were found dead in the home after a fire was extinguished in the two-family, one-story conversion built in 1979.

Davenport police had been to the address hours before the fire.

A call for service occurred at 11:46 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, according to the service logs. The call was listed as a report of a domestic disturbance or violence. But friends of Goodwin say the report was incorrectly recorded and was actually a well-being check.

It is not clear if police officers made contact with Goodwin, or anyone else at the home, during the call.

Firefighters were called at 3:55 a.m. Tuesday, just over four hours after the first call, to a report of fire at the residence.

Two calls came after the blaze was extinguished and the bodies were found. The first was made at 7:55 a.m. on Tuesday and the other at 12:50 p.m. Both were reports of theft/larceny, the logs state.

The logs do not say what situation authorities found when they arrived, whether anyone was arrested in relation to any of the three calls or whether they were related to the investigation of the deaths or the fire.

The murders sent shock waves through the members of the community who knew Goodwin. They said they feared further fallout and asked to remain anonymous while the police try to find the person or persons who killed their friend.

At one time, Goodwin was an employee of Scott County, and friends said he was married and raised three sons. They described him as kind and generous.

"He did have addiction issues, but he always got help and always tried to do the right thing for his family and friends," said a friend who knew Goodwin for three decades. "He was doing OK, and then he just disappeared. It seemed like his life just went out of control."

In September of 2023, police sought a search warrant for Goodwin and the Division Street address, according to court records. Authorities allege officers recovered 58.4 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, 2 grams of suspected heroin and two digital scales.

The warrant stated the utilities for the apartment were in Goodwins name.

The police sought the other search warrant in August of 2023, using it to search a room at Bettendorfs Isle Casino Hotel, court records state.

Authorities allege the room was registered to Goodwin, and officers recovered raw marijuana with a total package weight of more than 46 grams.

Police also found cocaine with just under a gram of total package weight, a metal container with methamphetamine residue inside and a glass bowl also containing meth residue, according to court records.

At the time of the search, there was no one in the room.

Friends said news of the search warrant, and that Goodwin had not been arrested after the searches, had spread fear through those who knew him.

"Those search warrants will lead some people to make assumptions about Brian (Goodwin), and that will put people in danger," one of Goodwin's friends said. "I think it is irresponsible that those search warrants were included in a story about his death.

"He wasn't arrested for anything. You're basically smearing a guy. Brian (Goodwin) was a really good person. He doesn't deserve any of this."

Smith was never named in either of the search warrants. Goodwin's friends who spoke with The Quad-City Times said they did not know her.

"I have no idea who she is or what her relationship with Brian (Goodwin) was," one of Goodwin's friends said.

Smith did have a criminal record. In 2018 she received a suspended sentence in Clinton County District Court for forgery and possession of a firearm by a felon.

She was arrested in 2021 and charged with first-degree theft after being found in possession of a stolen truck and camper. She pleaded guilty to a pair of first-degree theft charges.

Danielle Andersen is Smith's sister. She declined to offer much detail about Smith's life but did issue a statement Friday.

"Our family is devastated by this tragedy, and we are grappling with the deep loss of a cherished family member," Andersen said in the statement.

She went on to say Smith "was a loving daughter, sister, mom and friend whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Her kindness, free spirit and defiant nature will be deeply missed. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and the community during this incredibly difficult time."

Andersen and other members of Smith's family requested privacy as they mourned her and processed the circumstances of her death.
Last week, the Board of Directors of Central Bancshares Inc., CBI Bank & Trust and F&M Bank's parent company, announced it has hired Dwayne Sieck as President of CBI Bank & Trust.

Sieck succeeds Greg Kistler, current president and CEO of Central Bancshares and CEO of CBI Bank & Trust. He is retiring on Dec. 31, 2024.

Dwayne is uniquely qualified to succeed Greg, who has been our CEO since 2010. The opportunity for them to work together over the coming year will ensure a smooth transition for the leadership of our company, Dan Stein, chairman of the board of Central Bancshares, said in a public statement.

Kistler, who has been associated with CBI Bank & Trust for over 27 years, spoke about his upcoming retirement.

We didnt know how long it would take to identify my successor, and we were very fortunate to find Dwayne Sieck early in the process," he said.

Kistler said he was glad to have more than enough time to help his successor work through this upcoming transition.

Dwayne brings many positives to our organization, starting with the extensive background he has in banking and financial services, Kistler said. Just as importantly, he will bring the focus on our customers and the communities we operate in that we have always valued.

Before joining CBI Bank & Trust, Sieck served in the financial services industry for the past 26 years, focusing mainly on banking, investments and commercial real estate. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance with minors in economics and business communications with an emphasis in real estate from the University of Northern Iowa before graduating from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking program at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.

Sieck previously served as president and chief operating officer of Mutual of Omaha Bank, a position he held for 12 years. During that time it grew from $600 million in assets to nearly $9 billion in assets.

He has also held positions with Principal Financial Group in Des Moines, Key Bank in Kansas City and CIT Bank, and has served nine years on The University of Northern Iowas Real Estate Advisory Council, including three years as its chair.

In 2021, Sieck founded Farnam Street Real Estate Capital, a real estate investment firm based in Omaha, Nebraska. He has also served on the faculty at the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking over the past two academic years. Siecks most recent achievement was the completion of his second three-year term on the Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank Board as a bank director for the Omaha branch.

It is an honor to serve the communities that CBI has been serving for generations, Sieck said in a public statement following the announcement. I am looking forward to working with such a talented and experienced team at CBI, who put our clients first. The team clearly understands and knows that community banking, when done well, acts as the lifeblood that preserves and strengthens the health of businesses and families in our communities.
MILAN  The U.S. Postal Service plans to hold a public meeting next month to discuss proposed changes to the Quad Cities Processing Distribution center in Milan.

As part of a $40 billion investment strategy to upgrade and improve the postal processing, transportation and delivery networks, USPS is conducting an evaluation of current operations and potential future uses of the facility.

A public meeting to discuss the proposed changes is set for noon Tuesday, Feb. 6, at The Camden Centre, 2701 1st St. E. in Milan. USPS plans to share the initial results of the study and allow members of the community to provide feedback and perspectives on the initial findings of the Mail Processing Facility Review (MPFR).

A summary of the MPFR will be posted on about.usps.com at least one week before the meeting. Members of the local community may submit written comments online through Feb. 21. The publics input will be considered before a final decision, according to a Monday news release.

An initial survey of the Milan facility determined the Quad-Cities facility should stay open but become a local processing center, meaning the center would process letters and flat parcels. These will be sent to individual carrier routes in the region.

Currently, the facility is a processing and distribution center, where the facility sorts all mail and packages being sent to other regions, as well as sort packages for delivery in the regional area.

Under the new plan, some of these mail processing operations will be transferred to the processing center in Des Moines, according to a news release.

Aggregating local mail and packages with those from other areas going to the same places may provide better service and be more cost effective, USPS said in the release.

"The Postal Service will work closely with its unions and management associations throughout the facility review and will continually monitor the impact of any changes that are implemented and will adjust plans as necessary and appropriate," USPS said in the news release.

14 fun facts about your mail 1. Benjamin Franklin was the first postmaster general in U.S. history 2. The Postal Service processed and delivered 425.3 million pieces of mail per day in 2021. 3. There are more than 139,868 blue mail collection boxes in the U.S. 4. There are 31,247 Postal Service-managed retail offices. 5. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the law enforcement arm of USPS. 6. The U.S. Postal Service has no official motto. 7. USPS generally receives no tax dollars, and funds itself through the sale of postage and other services. 8. Contrary to popular belief, the Pony Express was never officially a part of the U.S. Postal Service. 9. The Breast Cancer Research semipostal stamp has raised more than $93.9 million for breast cancer research since 1998. 10. The Alzheimers semipostal has raised more than $1.2 million since 2017. 11. The Save Vanishing Species semipostal has raised more than $6.6 million since 2011. 12. The United Kingdoms iconic red mail collection boxes are called pillar boxes. 13. The United Nations has an agency called the Universal Postal Union that coordinates postal policy internationally. 14. If it were a private sector company, the Postal Service would rank 43rd in the 2021 Fortune 500.
A Silvis man has been sentenced to more than 17 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to child pornography charges.

Aaron Kyle Ruthey, 43, was arrested Aug. 17, 2022, by Moline Police Officer Jeremy McAuliffe, who was working at that time as an agent for the U.S. Secret Service as a Task Force Officer.

In his criminal complaint describing Rutheys activities, McAuliffe said that on four occasions between Dec. 9, 2020, and Aug. 10, 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received four cybertip reports from Twitter about apparent child sexual exploitation activity that had been shared, sent, received and or stored using their online service on Dec. 9, 2020; Feb. 13, 2021; and June 10, 2021.

During the investigation, Ruthey was identified as selling child porn over the internet using various applications including Twitter and Wickr.

In his criminal complaint, McCauliffe explained that the website Wickr Me is a free app that provides end-to-end encryption of text, picture, audio and video messages. Users control who can read their messages and when they expire.

On Aug. 6, 2022, an FBI online covert employee was conducting an undercover investigation using the Wickr platform. The agent began a conversation with a person whose platform name was tied to Ruthey.

The agent and Ruthey struck a deal and Ruthey was sent money. On Aug. 9, 2022, the agent received a link and began downloading files sent by Ruthey. Once the files were downloaded, the agent confirmed they were child pornography.

On Sept. 8, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted Ruthey on one count each of distribution of child pornography, sale of child pornography and possession of child pornography.

On June 15, 2023, Ruthey pleaded guilty to all three charges during a hearing in federal court.

During his sentencing hearing Wednesday in U.S. District Court, Peoria, Chief District Judge Sara Darrow sentenced Ruthey to 210 months, or 17  years, on each count. The sentences are to run concurrently, or at the same time.

In his sentencing memorandum, Rutheys attorney Assistant Federal Public Defender Terry Frederick, arguing for a lower sentenced, noted that, of the 42 defendants who fell into Aaron Rutheys guideline cell over the past five years, half of them received a sentence of 180 months (15 years) or less.

According to a news release issued by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Central District of Illinois, Darrow commented that Rutheys actions increased the marketability and demand for child porn content.

Ruthey also must spend 10 years on supervised release after he completes his prison sentence. He will receive credit for the time he has served in custody awaiting trial and sentencing.

Additionally, Darrow ordered Ruthey to pay restitution totaling $67,500 to nine victims.

The case against Ruthey was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, Moline Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation-Springfield Office.

The case was investigated as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Hong Kong: 2024 legal year opens

The ceremonial opening of the legal year 2024 was held at City Hall today.

In his opening remarks, Chief Justice Andrew Cheung stressed that when a court makes an unpopular or even a wrong decision, it does not follow that the justice system or the Judiciary are malfunctioning or that they require reform.

He cautioned against a failure to distinguish between judges personally and their decisions or reasoning.

Criticising the judges decision or reasons is one thing; questioning the judges integrity or professional impartiality is quite another. Likewise, a failure to separate a court decision from the Judiciary as an institution is not helpful to the well-being of the common law system.

He also criticised threats of sanction or reprisal against judges for simply discharging their judicial duties.

Judges must be able to decide cases and explain their decisions in judgments without interference or illegitimate pressure. This is of cardinal importance to judicial independence. Threats of sanction or reprisal against judges for simply discharging their judicial duties are, therefore, repugnant to the rule of law and fundamentally objectionable.

The Chief Justice also highlighted that in the past few years, the work of the Judiciary has often been viewed through the prism of the National Security Law. He said that this has tended to result in a narrow or even distorted picture of judicial work, and more generally of the state of the rule of law and judicial independence in Hong Kong.

But whatever may be said or written about our legal system, of this the community can be sure: our courts and our judges will continue to discharge their constitutional duty to administer justice fairly and efficiently, without fear or favour, self-interest or deceit. This, too, is essential to the continuation of the common law system in Hong Kong.

Mr Cheung also mentioned that the e-litigation platform has already been smoothly implemented in most District Court civil proceedings as well as in summons cases in the Magistrates Courts. Its extension to other levels of courts, most importantly the High Court level, is scheduled for this year.

Separately, the new District Court Complex in Causeway Bay will be completed and open for use by 2027, while preliminary planning and design work on the new High Court Complex will start very soon, Mr Cheung said.

The Queensway Government Offices site adjacent to the existing High Court Building will be reserved for construction of the new High Court Complex.

Also speaking at the event, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam emphasised that there is no evidence that the Judiciarys independent judicial power has been compromised in cases involving national security.

All court hearings relating to national security are, generally speaking, held openly, he said. More importantly, all decisions and judgments made by the court in this respect are publicised on the Judiciarys website, which is accessible for free.

Mr Lam said the real problem is that many people have not bothered to follow court proceedings and study the reasons for decisions and judgments before passing their own judgments.

For any reasonable and objective bystander who is eager to seek the truth, he or she will not see one iota of evidence that the Judiciary's independent judicial power has been compromised in cases involving national security.

He reiterated the Governments resolve to protect judges and judicial officers.

I wish to make it very clear that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will do its best and take whatever measures (are) within its powers to ensure that judges and judicial officers will be able to perform their judicial functions without fear (of) intimidation.

This story has been published on: 2024-01-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Rocket hits airbase housing U.S. forces in W. Iraq

Xinhua) 10:33, January 22, 2024

BAGHDAD, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- About 20 rockets were launched Saturday toward an airbase housing U.S. forces in Iraq's western province of Anbar, wounding at least one Iraqi soldier, a source from the Iraqi army said.

The attack occurred in the afternoon when an unidentified militant group fired rockets on the Ayn al-Asad Airbase near the town of al-Baghdadi, some 190 km northwest of the capital Baghdad, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

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 said.

A soldier was wounded by the shrapnels after the rockets were intercepted by the air defense weapons and exploded in the air, the source added.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth addresses the media as ballots arrive and are counted at NRG Stadium on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

When is the last time Republicans and Democrats worked together for the sake of democracy?

How about this month. Right here in Harris County.

Republican and Democratic county parties announced on Jan. 14 that they would hold their first-ever joint primary, meaning that when Election Day voters from both parties head to the polls in March to select nominees for national, state and local races, Republicans and Democrats won't just share the same location for primary elections but also the same machines.

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This may not sound all that momentous. Actually, it might sound like a no-brainer and remarkably similar to how we already vote in general elections. And it is.

Democrats pushed for the arrangement, which they've called for in previous years, but this time they brought extra urgency to their pleas. Democrats warned that separate primaries would leave Harris County critically short on voting equipment on Election Day. Yet, on Jan. 9, Harris County Republican Party Chair Cindy Siegel was adamant about maintaining her party's yearslong objection to holding joint primaries.

Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth, a Democrat whom Republicans have praised for her smooth handling of recent elections, had addressed Commissioners Court, warning about a new law that, in effect, vastly increased the number of Harris County primary voting sites required on Election Day. That would leave the county without enough equipment to run them, unless Republicans and Democrats agreed to share machines. The new law, the implications of which were somewhat unclear and had to be interpreted by state election officials, didn't leave time to order new machines, which take several months to arrive.

"While I have the competence to run elections, I am not the magic wand," Hudspeth said. "Were going to face challenges."

Siegel wasn't moved. She seemed to cling to the idea that primaries should remain separate because that's the way it has always been done. Then she took a few swipes at Democrats.

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"As long as I'm Chairman of the Harris County Republican Party, I will not bend to the Democrats crying wolf at the cost of our voters because they can't get their act together," Siegel said in a statement.

Then, at some point over the next five days, Siegel changed her mind. GOP party leaders met privately with Hudspeth and Siegel, and also consulted with the Secretary of State Elections Division, which she said had persuaded her that there was no other option.

"This decision was not made lightly," Siegel said in a statement announcing her reversal, " ... We will work with the clerks office to have a successful primary election, and we plan on maintaining as much control over our election as possible through ongoing negotiations with all stakeholders over the next couple of days."

That's the way things should work. Partisan interests should always take a back seat to election integrity. We're certainly glad they did in this case.

But it bears discussion: why did it take so much cajoling for Republicans to come around?

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The concept of joint primaries isn't novel or untested. Back in 2019, when Democrats had pushed Republicans to accept the idea for other reasons, they argued that Harris should join other counties, including Travis and Dallas, which already hold joint primaries.

The GOP opposition to joint primaries seems to stem from concerns about control and trust  or lack thereof. Republicans don't want Democrats in charge of running their primary and they have long complained that the setup would be confusing to voters and also inconvenient, since they could get stuck in a long line with a bunch of Democrats, who outnumber them in Harris County.

Separate primaries allow for more symbolic control. The parties have more say over who is checking voters in and of course they use separate machines. In a post-2020 world, that power  more performance than real  is likely meaningful to some Republican voters, distrustful of collaborating in any way with Democrats.

In reality, though, there's already collaboration. In the general election  where any fear of sabotage might be even greater since the parties are actually competing against each other  polling sites are required to be staffed by a presiding judge and alternate, each from different parties.

Of course, few things erode trust like actual dysfunction on Election Day. Actual episodes of polls opening late, of ballot paper running out, of ballots getting misplaced are all things we've seen in recent years in Harris County.

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No one should want another mishap, not the Democrats, and not the Republicans, whose lawmakers insisted that their only motivation in legislating other changes to Harris County elections was to protect their integrity.
An Iowa State University police officer has been fired after taking part in a high-speed chase that resulted in two collisions.

State records indicate McKenna Rich worked for ISU since December 2021, most recently as a full-time police officer. She was fired in November 2023 after a series of incidents.

On April 24, 2023, Rich was involved in a vehicle pursuit when, according to ISU, she violated departmental directives and state law by not operating her patrol vehicle with due regard to public safety by driving at high speeds.

According to Iowa Workforce Development records, Rich was also the target of a citizen complaint stemming from a search she performed in September 2023. An investigation determined Rich conducted an unconstitutional detention of an individual and that she coerced the person to produce evidence against themselves by threatening an unconstitutional search, state records show.

Then, on Oct. 9, 2023, Rich was working when she heard on the police radio there was a vehicle pursuit involving a wrong-way driver on Highway 30. A Story County deputy and the suspect were headed in the direction of Boone when Richs captain instructed all ISU officers to refrain from assisting in the pursuit unless specifically requested, according to state records.

Rich was then asked to park at a specific location in case the pursuit led to high-population areas within Ames. On her way to that location, ISU alleges, Rich saw the suspects vehicle with a deputy in pursuit and then heard the deputy ask for assistance in blocking the suspect. Rich turned on her patrol cars emergency lights and joined in the chase, with her vehicle between those of two Story County deputies, state records show.

At one point, according to state records, the lead deputy and the suspect stopped at an intersection, forcing Rich to quickly switch lanes and resulting in Richs car colliding with a vehicle that wasnt involved in the chase.

The deputy behind Rich then began honking at Rich to get out of his way, but state records indicate Rich interpreted the honking as a signal to continue with her pursuit, which she did without stopping to check on the vehicle shed struck.

At one point, ISU alleges, the lead deputy attempted a failed a maneuver to stop the suspects vehicle, and his patrol car left the roadway, putting Rich in the lead position behind the suspect as they headed toward Campus Avenue  a 25 mph zone  at speeds of up to 55 mph.

Rich allegedly followed the suspect through an intersection without stopping and struck another uninvolved vehicle, sending it into a nearby apartment building, according to state records. At that point, Rich ended her participation in the chase.

The ISU police department conducted an investigation and, according to IWD records, determined Rich had violated direct orders not to engage in the pursuit, exercised an extreme lack of judgment, and acted recklessly without due regard for public safety. The department also determined Richs body camera did not activate during the chase because she had failed to properly synchronize the camera with her vehicles system.

After being fired, Rich began collecting unemployment benefits and ultimately received $2,328 in benefits.

Recently, Administrative Law Judge Carly Smith ruled Rich was not entitled to jobless benefits due to workplace misconduct, stating that the former officers behavior in speeding, entering intersections without ensuring all cross-street vehicles were clear of the intersection, and entering an intersection without lights and sirens put the general public in harms way.

Smith ruled that Richs decision not to slow down or stop were intentional and deliberate actions and ordered Rich to repay the benefits already collected.
DES MOINES  People who assault police officers, firefighters and other protected professionals would receive heightened sentences under a bill Iowa lawmakers advanced on Monday.

The bill, House Study Bill 523, would raise the penalties for assaults on a number of public safety employees and officials to as high as a class C felony if the offender intends to cause serious injury or displays a dangerous weapon. The charge would be a class D felony if the offender causes bodily injury or mental illness.

Those charges would be hiked up from Class D felony and aggravated misdemeanor, respectively.

The bill would heighten penalties for assaults on the following occupations:

Peace officer or civilian employee of a law enforcement agency

jailer or correctional staff

Member or employee of the board of parole

Health care provider

Employee of the department of health and human services

Employee of the department of revenue

National guard member engaged in official duties

Civilian employee of a fire department or firefighter

The bill was proposed by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird's office. Bird, a former prosecutor and county attorney, said the current penalties for the offenses are far too lenient.

"I want to do all we can do to increase respect for law enforcement, you do a tough job. Respect for our first responders and others who do very difficult work and are just trying to help people."

The bill makes other assaults, including spitting on a police officer or other official, an aggravated misdemeanor, raising them from a simple misdemeanor. A person found guilty of that crime would be subject to a mandatory minimum of seven days in jail. An inmate who spits on an employee of a correctional facility would be subject to a class D felony.

Ray Reynolds, the director of fire and EMS at the Nevada Fire Department, said the bill was necessary.

He became emotional recounting responding to an arson fire in 2022. When he and police responded, the perpetrator attempted to strangle the officer and take his gun, Reynolds said, and when Reynolds intervened he was also assaulted.

I got bit, I got spit on, and the guy got two simple misdemeanors or a serious misdemeanor, he said.

Melissa Speed, a lobbyist for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union, said she wanted to ensure that all employees in correctional facilities are covered under the new penalties.

She also said she wants lawmakers to ensure that incarcerated people who assault correctional staff receive a full penalty rather than a light charge.

Somebody whos in prison and assaults a correctional officer, that happens on a daily, she said. Are we going to be putting those individuals through the system?

Assaults on correctional staff increased between 2020 and 2022, KCCI reported last year. Two inmates at the Anamosa State Penitentiary killed a nurse and correctional officer in 2021 during an attempted escape.

A class C felony is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $13,360, while a class D felony is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,245. An aggravated misdemeanor is punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $8,540.

Lawmakers advance bill

The bill was approved by two Republicans in a three-person subcommittee on Monday.

Democratic Rep. Eleanor Levin of Iowa City asked Bird whether there was evidence the increased penalties would lower incidences of assault. She did not vote to advance the bill, saying it sounds like theres some work to do on the bill.

Bird did not point to any data to suggest raising the penalties would lowers offenses, but she said she believed it would deter people from assaulting officers.

"Based on my personal experience, I think it would (reduce assaults)," Bird said. "Particularly that seven-day mandatory minimum. Because if someone thinks that they'll just get probation and assault a peace officer, I don' think that's right."

Iowa Rep. Jeff Shipley, a Republican from Birmingham, supported the bill and said he would be interested in tracking whether the change leads to fewer offenses.

"I would never want to have law enforcement in the situation that we've described," Shipley said. "I think there's an argument you can even make the penalties even more severe, just considering how vile some of these offenses are."

One city's surprising tactic to reduce gun violence: Solving more nonfatal shootings One city's surprising tactic to reduce gun violence: Solving more nonfatal shootings Other cities have woken up to Denver's example
Editor's note: This is the fifth in a series of stories on children that Jackie Hendry, producer and host of South Dakota Public Broadcasting's "South Dakota Focus" will write for South Dakota News Watch. Each month, she previews the upcoming show.

PIERRE  Legislative leaders agree that the ongoing childcare crisis in South Dakota represents a significant workforce problem. A bill authorizing a statewide cost study of childcare is likely to drop soon, but advocates worry lawmakers lack a sense of urgency.

Childcare centers are struggling to hire workers in part because pay in the industry lags behind most other industries. It's a nationwide problem. In 2021, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said childcare workers make on average $27,000 a year, putting them in the bottom 2 percent of occupations.

That low wage can make recruitment and retention difficult, leaving childcare centers understaffed. Without adequate staff, centers can't care for their licensed capacity of kids  leading to a shortfall of funds for the center and a shortage of care slots for families.

During a town hall hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting in October, Early Learner South Dakota Director Kayla Klein explained it's not as simple as raising prices to offer staff more competitive wages.

"As soon as you start to have the market continue to increase the fees, you're really just going to be providing care for those who can afford it," said Klein. "You're forgetting about your frontline workers who you rely on as your barista in the morning to serve you your coffee and who are working at McDonald's and helping you bag your groceries at Walmart. It's those individuals who are priced out. So, are we OK with that?"

Looking for an alternative

Some states have begun investing ongoing funds in childcare in hopes of addressing the problem. During a December interview with KWAT radio in Watertown, Gov. Kristi Noem said she's against subsidies.

"I still believe parents are parents, and their responsibility is to their children, and we'll do all we can to make sure that there's resources in their communities to utilize," the governor said. "But I don't believe that it's the role of the government to assume all financial responsibility for raising these children."

The state does offer childcare subsidies for low-income families, and the Noem administration has distributed $40 million in mostly federal money to childcare providers around the state, including longstanding facilities like Apple Tree in Sioux Falls, which is trying to stay open.

Though one-time funds acted as a short-term solution, the governor's hesitance to funnel ongoing funds into childcare is shared by other lawmakers like House Majority Leader Will Mortenson. He points to states like California that continue to struggle despite significant state investment.

"We're looking for an alternate path to move the needle on making sure that there's safe and affordable childcare for everybody," Mortenson, a Republican from Pierre, told South Dakota Public Broadcasting's Lee Strubinger after the State of the State address earlier this month. "We've found out what doesn't work. We're still looking for what does."

Policy and partnership

Fellow Republican Tim Reed, a state senator from Brookings, is part of a group looking for solutions.

He's leading an informal task force on childcare that includes providers, business leaders and other experts around the state. He's also been following the issue as CEO of the Brookings Economic Development Corp.

"I think the biggest thing we have to look at is we're figuring through estimates and reports that have been done: $329 million dollars in lost productivity with childcare," said Reed. "And I'm sure you're going to see even more with these childcare centers closing."

While Reed said center closures haven't yet impacted Brookings, the ongoing closures of longstanding childcare centers in Sioux Falls prove no provider is immune to the struggling business model.

"The question is, 'What's the role of government when it comes to childcare?' And I do believe that we are there to at least put out, 'This is what it costs,' and then we have subsidy rates," Reed explained. "We do subsidize to 207% of the federal poverty level. We subsidize childcare, and if we're not paying enough at the subsidy rate, you know, and these centers are closing, we have to figure that out as government."

That's why Reed is pushing for a one-time investment of state money into a statewide cost analysis study of childcare. While it's not the direct investment into the problem that some advocates might want, he believes it's a meaningful step to make childcare more sustainable in the long run.

Reed is also optimistic that the task force and efforts like the John T. Vucurevich Foundation's tri-share pilot program in Rapid City will produce more ideas for creative policy solutions in the future.

"This is going to take a partnership, and that's why we have a task force that we're putting together over the next year. How can everybody participate to solve this issue?"

How to Watch 'South Dakota Focus'

The next episode of "South Dakota Focus" airs on Thursday, Jan. 25, at 8 p.m. Central time or 7 p.m. Mountain time. It can be viewed on SDPB-TV 1, Facebook, YouTube and SD.net.

The episode includes: A look at how the childcare ecosystem in Sioux Falls is responding to the ongoing childcare crisis. Why a cost study could be more likely than direct state investment during this legislative session. Why the unique challenges of the childcare business model require more creative solutions.
Two Missoula charter schools and three Ravalli County charter schools will start this fall after approval by the Board of Public Education on Friday.

The schools will expand options across their communities, with focuses on remote learning, workforce development, and art-based education.

The charter schools come after House Bill 549 passed in the 2023 legislative session. The bill placed charter schools under control of public school boards.

The Board of Public Education approved 19 charter schools across Montana, with trustees judging the charter schools by innovation, likelihood of success, academic programming, and other criteria.

Missoula TEACH Academy

Missoula TEACH (Teaching Excellence in the Arts and Creative Harmony) Academy will bring a knowledge-based, arts-integrated experience for the school districts early literacy program and for kindergarten through fifth grade while providing an innovative approach to attracting future teachers, according to the proposal.

The district hopes the charter school will help address declines in student attendance and engagement noted since the COVID-19 pandemic. 35% of elementary students in the Missoula County Public School District miss 10% or more of their school days, with many not feeling engaged in the classroom, according to district data.

Secondly, the school will help address a decline in teacher preparation programs across Montana. It will offer internships to high schoolers interested in teaching through a dual credit pathway with an eventual university collaboration planned to develop paid internship opportunities.

With an engaging approach to learning and a smaller teacher-to-student ratio due to the support of preservice educators, the TEACH academy will provide an exciting and creative community school that inspires our youth to be innovative and our young adults to choose this important profession, the proposal stated.

Classes would still teach the skills expected in the grade, but would also integrate art and movement-based activities to better engage students. The school would further grow a partnership with SPARK Ignites Learning Initiative to help develop the fully-integrated arts curriculum.

MCPS P-12 Academic and Community Services Director Barbara Frank said the schools emphasis on the arts comes from the importance it has in the Missoula community.

This was a way for us to really dig deeper into an arts integration model, which is something thats been exposed to us over the years, Frank said. We just see the joy that it brings students and teachers and so we really wanted to build this school around that model of joy and creativity. Just living in an art-rich community, we feel like this is a great school for Missoula.

In its first year, the charter school plans to only enroll students for early learning and kindergarten through second grade, and then add a grade each successive year. The district plans to enroll 80 students next academic year. Roughly 9,300 students are enrolled in MCPS.

Missoula Connect Academy

Connect Academy expands the existing Missoula Online Academy established by MCPS during the pandemic, by adding grades 6 through 8 to the remote learning option. The charter school will allow the district to better meet student needs with individualized courses and accelerated learning possibilities, according to the proposal.

Students would have access to work-based learning opportunities, Advanced Placement courses and credit recovery courses.

Currently, the districts remote learning option for the Missoula Online Academy is at its limit, with 30 students on a waitlist for the program currently, Frank said.

So, we know there's definitely a demand in our community, she said. We've already started to see letters from families asking us about when enrollment will open since the charter schools were approved. It's taking the good work we're already doing and just really leveling it up.

Both Missoula charter schools offer new options to parents as intended by the charter school bill, Frank said.

Really what these charters do for families is it adds choice into the menu of options for our students and families, she said. And so that's really what it's about, just adding choice. We already have excellent schools and high-quality programs. This just adds another high-quality choice for families to make sure that their kids are getting the education that best fits their needs.

Hamilton Bitterroot Polytech

Hamilton Bitterroot Polytech will better meet the workforce needs of the community and develop the full educational potential of each student from seventh to 12th grade.

According to the proposal, the traditional education setting and system is not meeting the needs of many students as evidenced by a 90% to 95% graduation rate in the school district and the 30 to 40 students participating in the alternative school, designed for those at risk of dropping out.

The charter school creates an outcome-focused vision for students who might feel unmotivated with schooling and prepares for them a future career in the process, said Tom Korst, Hamilton School District #3 superintendent, in an interview. Students at the school can, for instance, get a Commercial Drivers License, get certified as a medical assistant, intern with various community employers all while getting school credit.

They can do this on their own time, and in their own way, Korst said. And I think it provides students a lot more flexibility, and for many of them a better learning environment. And they can recover some credits that they failed early on. Thats something of high value to me and it will help with our graduation rate to get to that 100%.

Additionally, Bitterroot Polytech will give students greater academic opportunities by taking dual enrollment courses at a lower expense with UM Bitterroot College, Korst said. Dual enrollment courses offer college credits at roughly a third of the cost, while students earn high school credit.

For a lot of families, one of the major impediments to college for their kids and kids in general is just the cost. Korst said. And if you could earn a half of your college credit through your high school years, that's a significant savings to a family.

The charter school will also build opportunities for adult education programs through a partnership with UM Bitterroot College and other entities.

So, it's not just for our high schools, Korst said. It will also serve a greater community for people who are wanting to get rescaled and upskilled. It's really trying to look at the community as a whole and provide a hub of opportunities for both our students and our community.

Enrollment for the charter school is planned to be 110 students in the 1,600-student school district. If the charter school is full, students will be prioritized for enrollment based on student age and assessed need.

Corvallis Distance Learning Charter

The Corvallis Distance Learning Charter (CDLC) builds on an established community need for serving previously home-schooled students with distance learning options from kindergarten to 12th grade, according to the districts proposal. The school will also give options for part remote learning and part on-campus learning.

Corvallis School District has one of the highest, if not the highest population of home-school students in the State of Montana, the proposal stated. The CDLC is poised to bridge the gap that has existed between the district and home-school families for many years.

The charter school follows the establishment of a distance learning program this school year. The program has engaged a significant portion of the population that would otherwise shy away from public education, according to the proposal. In September and October, the Corvallis School District enrolled 114 students previously separated from the schools. Roughly 1,450 students are enrolled in the school district.

Parents can choose curriculum and learning resources for their child with options for hands-on or an online environment varying per curriculum. Besides homeschooled students, the program will also aim to help existing students in the district that need one-on-one learning assistance or those at-risk of dropping out, said Pete Joseph, Corvallis School District superintendent, in an interview.

Already, the district has three K-12 learning centers that offer extra help or different forms of learning. Those learning centers will play an important role in the charter school.

We are able to support families and kids through that distance learning charter, and not only families that are just in it at home, but also kids that are in our school system that the distance can be just across the room from their eighth-grade social studies room, Joseph said. They're getting extra academic help in these learning centers. So, for us, its a combination of a lot of those things.

The proposal lists an expected 171 students will be enrolled in the school by this fall.

Corvallis Transformational Learning Charter

The Corvallis Transformational Learning Charter will support Corvallis rural agricultural community with its focus on career-based education. According to the proposal, beginning in first grade and continuing through graduation, each student at the charter school can choose an interest and eventually a career path that best suits their abilities and appeals to them.

The proposal stated its pathways uniquely match the needs of the community, including pathways like Farm to Food, Medical, Outdoor Recreation and Ecology and others. Throughout a students individualized education on that pathway, they will have access to opportunities that were unavailable in traditional schooling.

We're going to start to benefit the 50% of our population that have not traditionally gone to college, Joseph said. And now we're going to take that population of kids and really puts kids in this transformational learning format.

Students will have a variety of educational experiences including field trips, guest speakers, internships, credential training and, similar to Hamilton Bitterroot Polytech, dual enrollment classes.

The district plans to enroll 218 students in its first year to the school

Denied proposal

Corvallis school district also had one of five proposals rejected by the Board of Public Education in its proposed Gifted Learning Charter.

While districts can reapply or apply for new charter schools as soon as this June, Joseph said, despite the unfortunate rejection, for right now the district likely plans to focus on their already two solid charter schools that were approved. Similar to other districts across Montana, they now have a busy several months ahead of their charter schools opening this fall.

I think for us, weve got a lot of work to do to really make sure that the other two charters are successful, he said. We have a lot of information to gather. We have a lot of groups within our school system that we have to educate and get up to speed. We've got a plethora of conversations with community members about accessing these internships and apprenticeships. We have a lot of work to do with all of our school community, but I think we've got a great head start here in our programs.
By: Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury





Al Qaeda and Hezbollah sympathizer ultra-Islamist Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) with active participation of its jihadist and pro-Caliphate ideological allies has started a dangerous plot targeting India that would destabilize South Asian region while turning Bangladesh into a neo-Taliban state while success of this attempt would turn Bangladesh as well as other nations in the region, including Sri Lanka, Maldives and Nepal into safe haven of jihadist-terrorists.





It is essential to note that BNP and its Islamist partners have a history of harboring anti-American, anti-Semitic, and anti-Western sentiments. These Islamist groups have been on record for setting fire to the American flag and chanting slogans like "Death to America" or "We shall become Taliban, Bangla [Bangladesh] will be Afghan".





In a deeply concerning move, during the 2001-2006 rule of the BNP-Jamaat coalition government, they even named a bridge 'Hezbollah' as a "mark of honor", openly expressing their support for the Lebanese resistance group, Hezbollah, which the United States has designated as a terrorist organization. BNP-Jamaat coalition government's junior communications minister Salahuddin Ahmed told French news agency AFP, "I named the bridge Hezbollah because of our love for the Lebanese resistance group. Hezbollah is the only group which is fighting Israel and the bridge is named after the group as a mark of honor".





The then Foreign Minister Morshed Khan went as far as to label Israel's actions as "state terrorism" and "religious terrorism" while accusing the United States of sponsoring it.





Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami consider Jews and Israel as "enemy"  support "elimination of the Jewish State from the world map", while they recognize Lebanese Hezbollah and Palestinian Hamas as "ideological allies".





Almost two decades ago, during 2001-2006, when an ultra-Islamist and ruthlessly anti-Semitic government comprising Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) was in power, eminent journalist and counterterrorism expert Alex Perry saw Bangladesh as a "deadly cargo" as it had become a breeding ground and safe haven of terrorists, insurgents and militants.





According to Alex Perry, in early March 2002, Al Qaeda kingpin Osama bin Laden's second-in-command  Egyptian national Ayman al-Zawahiri had been hiding out in Bangladesh for months after arriving in Chittagong. He was accompanied by a group of the global terrorist outfit. Zawahiri even visited Dhaka and met several leaders of Bangladesh Nationalist Party while at the instruction of some influential figures of the party Zawahiri was housed at a high-secured property at Dhaka's Gulshan area, which is owned by the Directorate General of Defense Force (DGFI). During his stay in Dhaka, Zawahiri had meetings with Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, a war-criminal and asset of Pakistani spy agency Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI), while Brig Gen Abdur Rahim, then Director General of the National Security Intelligence (NSI) has carried a fruit basket, kebabs and bread on behalf of Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman. During his meeting with Ayman al-Zawahiri, Brig Gen Rahim requested the Al Qaeda kingpin to help BNP government by assassinating Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy in the United States.





According to Perry, after leaving the Taliban's headquarters in Kandahar as the city fell in early December 2001 and crossing into Pakistan, the fugitives traveled to Karachi, hired the 'Mecca' motor vessel and made the sail around India.





In July, a senior member of Bangladesh's largest terrorist group, the 2,000-strong Al Qaeda-allied Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HUJI), told TIME magazine the 150 men who entered Bangladesh that on December 21 were Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters from Afghanistan.





It may be mentioned here that, following September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the US soil, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) did set up a new five-man base in Dhaka, but merely as part of a global policy of establishing a presence in all Muslim countries. During the 2001-2006 rule of BNP-Jamaat Islamist coalition government, Bangladesh's southern coastal hills and northern borders with India turned lawless and were bristling with Islamic militants armed by gunrunners en route from Cambodia and southern Thailand to Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Central Asia and the Middle East. Subsequently, southern Bangladesh has become a haven for hundreds of jihadis on the lam. They find natural allies in Muslim guerrillas from India hiding out across the border, and in Muslim Rohingyas, tens of thousands of whom fled the ethnic and religious suppression of the Burmese military junta in the late 1970s and 1980s.





Following the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on in August 1975, Chittagong Hill Tract areas became Asia's oldest jihadist training camps with 26 interconnected bunkers complete with kitchens, lecture halls, telephones and televisions concealed beneath a three-meter-high false forest floor that stretches between two hills. Weapons available for training there included AK-47s, heavy machine guns, rifles, pistols, rocket-propelled grenades and mortars.





On May 9, 2002 and 10, 63 representatives of nine Islamist groups including Rohingya forces, the Islamic Oikya Jote (IOJ) and the ULFA met in Ukhia to form the 'Bangladesh Islamic Manch', a united council under HUJI's leadership. Although the "Manch" had restricted itself to circulating speeches by Osama bin Laden and Mullah Masood Azhar, a Pakistani militant leader, it had big plans. A HUJI source told Alex Perry: "The dream is to create a larger Islamic land than the territorial limits of Bangladesh to include Muslim areas of Assam, north Bengal and Burma's Arakan province". That dream, if Islamic terrorists are allowed to continue their operations in Bangladesh, could be a nightmare for the rest of the region particularly India.





Following publication of Alex Perry's article, journalist Bertil Lintner in another article in South Asia Terrorism Portal wrote: "...While Bangladesh is yet far from becoming another Pakistan, Islamist forces are no doubt on the rise, and extremist influence is growing, especially in the countryside. According to a foreign diplomat in Dhaka, "In the 1960s and 1970s, it was the leftists who were seen as incorruptible purists. Today, the role model for many young men in rural areas is the dedicated Islamic cleric with his skull cap, flowing robes and beard".





Commenting on the 2001 general election and Islamist coalition government of BNP and JeI returning to power, Bertil Lintner wrote: "... Since last year's election, however, extremist Islamist groups have once again become more blatant in their attacks on the country's minorities and secular forces. The HuJI especially has attracted the attention of security planners in the region. The group was formed in 1992 reportedly with funds from Osama bin Laden. The existence of firm links between the new Bangladeshi militants and the Al Qaeda were first proven when Fazlur Rahman, leader of the Jihad Movement in Bangladesh" (to which HuJI belongs), signed the official declaration of 'holy war' against the United States on February 23, 1998. Other signatories included [Osama] bin Laden, Ayman al-Zawahiri (chief of the Jihadist Group in Egypt), Rifa'i Ahmad Taha aka Abu-Yasir (Egyptian Islamic Group), and Sheikh Mir Hamzah (secretary of the Jamiat-ul-Ulema-e-Pakistan)".





Although people of Bangladesh rejected the Islamist-jihadist conglomerate of BNP-JeI and voted a secularist Awami League into power through a landslide victory during the general election in December 2008, it became a herculean task for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government in checking the rise of militancy and terrorism and eliminate existence of training camps and hideouts of anti-India separatist group - ULFA, while it also was a difficult task to fight jihadist outfits such as JMB, HuJI and later Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), which had formed alliance with Al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). With such difficult situation, Bangladesh under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been effectively and successfully fighting these evil forces of jihadists and terrorists, while it has completely dismantled hidden bases of insurgency groups which were using Bangladesh soil in continuing terrorist acts inside India.





Al Qaeda-sympathizer BNP's fresher bids of destabilizing the region





Following its foiled attempts of turning Bangladesh into a neo-Taliban state with effective collaboration of Biden administration, several rogue NGOs, media outlets and controversial Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the direct instructions of its acting chairman Tarique Rahman  a convicted terrorist who is seen by the US authorities as "notorious and widely feared" and "symbol of kleptocratic government and violent politics in Bangladesh"  this ultra-Islamist and pro-Pakistan party has recently launched 'India Out' movement by xeroxing similar acts in Maldives, clearly with the target of instigating masses towards Islamism, jihadism, anti-Hindu and anti-India sentiment.





Meanwhile, cyber activists of BNP and anti-India elements are intensifying 'India Out' propaganda on social media, while it has also been joined by the Bangladesh representative of Al Jazeera  the Qatari broadcast network which has been extremely hostile towards Sheikh Hasina and ger government.





Supporting 'India Out' movement of BNP, in a post on 'X' platform, Al Jazeera's Bangladesh has shared an anti-India video tagging an Islamist propagandist named Pinaki Bhattacharya, who converted into Islam and fled Bangladesh when authorities pressed charges of producing counterfeit medicine and amphetamine inside his pharmaceutical factory.





According to an Indian website, sitting in France as an asylum-seeker, a self-proclaimed cyber activist Pinaki Bhattacharya is anti-Hindu and anti-India extremist. He has been regularly publishing contents defaming Hindu religion. It said, Pinaki became popular amongst radical Muslims and anti-India and anti-Hindu bloc in Bangladesh for his jihadist and anti-India publications. He persuaded Bangladeshi Muslims to wage jihad against the Hindus and join jihadist forces in Jammu and Kashmir in India.





Dozens of cyber activists of BNP and Jamaat are pushing-forward 'India Out' propaganda on social media platforms, while some of them are also calling for boycotting Indian products in Bangladesh.





With BNP's past track record of having connections with Al Qaeda and Hezbollah, as well as regional terrorist outfits such as United Liberation Front of Assom (ULFA) and anti-India insurgency kingpins such as Paresh Baruah, this ultra-Islamist as part of its ongoing 'India Out' movement may involve global and regional terrorist groups against India thus posing serious security threats to the region. Moreover, this may also give instigation to locals in joining this plot whereas radical Islamic forces and militancy groups may resurge with its agenda of Islamization of Bangladesh under the garb of hatred towards India and Hindus in particular as well as non-Muslim populace in the country.




By Tajul Islam





In recent times, the political landscape in Bangladesh has raised concerns on an international scale as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), alleged to be collaborating with extremist Islamist groups including Al Qaeda, launches a movement titled 'India Out.' The BNP, with its ultra-Islamist and pro-Pakistan ideology, is accused of not only attempting to destabilize the South Asian region but also transform Bangladesh into a neo-Taliban state. The potential success of this movement could not only reshape Bangladesh but also have repercussions on neighboring nations like Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Nepal, potentially turning the entire region into a safe haven for jihadist terrorists.





The historical context surrounding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party reveals its long-standing affinity for extremist ideologies and its willingness to collaborate with groups designated as terrorists by the international community. During the tumultuous rule of the BNP-Jamaat coalition government from 2001 to 2006, the party openly expressed its support for Hezbollah, a Lebanese terrorist group, even going so far as to name a bridge in its honor. This period was marked by the BNP-Jamaat coalition government labeling Israel's actions as "state terrorism" and accusing the United States of sponsoring such actions.





A significant revelation that has sent shockwaves through security circles is the purported presence of Al Qaeda's second-in-command, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in Bangladesh during 2002. Reports suggest that Zawahiri was not merely present but was accommodated in a high-security property in Dhaka's Gulshan area, a property owned by the Directorate General of Defense Force. Disturbingly, during this period, there were alleged clandestine meetings between Atman al-Zawahiri and high-ranking BNP leaders, including unsettling discussions such as the request for assistance in the assassination of Sheikh Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy.





The 2001-2006 rule of the BNP-Jamaat coalition government witnessed the meteoric rise of extremist groups, most notably the Al Qaeda-allied Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HUJI). Reports indicated that fighters from the Taliban and Al Qaeda entered Bangladesh in December 2001, posing an imminent security threat to the region. Despite the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) establishing a base in Dhaka in response to the global policy of having a presence in Muslim countries, lawlessness continued to persist in Bangladesh's southern coastal hills.





The Chittagong Hill Tract areas, following the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, morphed into Asia's oldest jihadist training camps. These camps, complete with interconnected bunkers, lecture halls, telephones, and televisions, became a breeding ground for terrorists and insurgents. The dream of creating a larger Islamic land, extending beyond the territorial limits of Bangladesh, was fueled by extremist forces, posing a long-term and potentially devastating threat to the region, particularly India.





The recent launch of the 'India Out' movement by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, under the direction of its acting chairman Tarique Rahman, raises serious concerns about regional stability. The movement, allegedly supported by jihadist and pro-Caliphate ideological allies, aims to instigate masses towards Islamism, jihadism, and anti-India sentiments. Social media platforms are witnessing a surge in propaganda, with cyber activists intensifying efforts to push the 'India Out' narrative and calling for the boycott of Indian products in Bangladesh.





Given the BNP's historical connections with Al Qaeda and Hezbollah, the ongoing 'India Out' movement may involve collaboration with global and regional terrorist groups against India. This poses a severe security threat to the entire region. The movement not only risks instigating locals to join the plot but also provides an opportunity for radical Islamic forces and militant groups to resurge, under the guise of expressing hatred towards India and its non-Muslim population.





The involvement of Al Jazeera, a Qatari broadcast network, in supporting the 'India Out' movement adds an international dimension to the crisis. Al Jazeera's Bangladesh representative has shared an anti-India video, further fueling the propaganda. This raises questions about the role of media outlets in influencing regional stability and exacerbating tensions between nations.





The alleged collaboration between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and extremist Islamist groups, coupled with the recent 'India Out' movement, demands urgent attention from the international community. The historical connections between BNP and Al Qaeda, coupled with the ongoing efforts to destabilize the region, necessitate a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of extremism. Regional cooperation and diplomatic efforts are crucial to preventing the escalation of tensions and ensuring the security of South Asia. The international community must closely monitor the situation, urging Bangladesh to take decisive actions against extremism while promoting a dialogue for regional peace and stability. Only through a united front can the South Asian region confront and overcome the challenges posed by extremist ideologies and actions.








PARIS (AP)  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 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 law  passed in December  conform with the French Constitution.





The bill strengthens Frances 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 preference, under which the French, not foreigners, should profit from the riches of the land, has 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. 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 of the law 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 re-establishing a law done away with in 2012 that makes it illegal for a foreigner to be in France without residence papers.





The immigration law reflects what appears to be centrist Macron's most recent effort to tilt the government to the right, notably ahead of European elections in June with the far right bounding forward in popularity, according to polls.




Today, more than 1 million private-sector Virginia workers are on their own when it comes to saving for retirement. Businesses can struggle with the administrative hurdles, fiduciary responsibilities and costs that come with providing an employer-sponsored retirement savings option.

RetirePath Virginia is the Commonwealths solution to help increase access to retirement savings. Under a new state law, certain Virginia businesses are required to either register for RetirePath or offer their own qualified retirement plan. For employers eligible in 2023, the state-mandated registration deadline is Feb. 15, 2024.

The sooner employers register, the sooner their employees can begin saving, said Mary Morris, CEO of Virginia529, the independent state agency that manages RetirePath Virginia. RetirePath addresses the retirement savings gap head-on by offering more Virginians the chance to save at work.

What employers need to know

RetirePath gives employers a simple way to help their employees save for the future, with no employer fees, no fiduciary responsibility, and minimal administrative requirements.

The program is mandatory for certain Virginia for-profit and non-profit employers. Businesses are required to participate if they have 25 or more eligible employees, have been operating for more than two years, and do not currently offer a workplace retirement savings option.

We received an email about RetirePath. We felt like it was a no-brainer, said Amy Navejas with Affordable Lifts in Lynchburg, Virginia. This was available without any additional cost to the business, and it gives our staff a way to save for their future.

Employers can visit RetirePathVA.com/employers to learn more and respond.

What employees need to know

Employee participation is voluntary and flexible. After an employer registers, eligible employees have 30 days to opt out or adjust their account. If an employee takes no action, they enroll automatically with the programs default savings and investment selections.

Being able to plan for my future while having this cool job is exciting, said Kelly Crisafulli, piercer at River City Tattoo in Richmond. I love doing what I do, but I cant see myself bending over and piercing people when Im 80. Saving for retirement with RetirePath brings me some peace-of-mind.

Contributions default to a Roth individual retirement account (IRA). The standard savings rate is 5% of the employees total pay. However, employees can opt out, change their savings rate, or customize their account at any time.

Virginians who are self-employed or dont work for an employer registered with RetirePath can open an account and save on their own. Get started at RetirePathVA.com/savers.

RetirePath Virginia program details

RetirePath is the result of a statewide effort to bolster retirement security for Virginia workers. In the absence of a nationwide solution, many states are establishing state-facilitated retirement savings programs such as RetirePath.

Virginia is the seventh state to launch an automatic-enrollment, state-facilitated retirement savings program. RetirePath is managed by Virginia529, an independent agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

To learn more about RetirePath Virginia, visit RetirePathVA.com.

This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this paid post belong solely to the advertiser and do not represent the views of Brand Ave. Studios or its parent company.
Top-ranked Virginia museums according to online searches

Most popular Virginia museums according to actual attendance

Click bait articles, like the study above, can paint quite a different picture than reality. So we decided to take a look at the real numbers. According to actual attendance numbers in 2023, Colonial Williamsburg would come in first on this list, with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in second. The Science Museum of Virginia would come in third place and Jamestown Settlement in fourth. Colonial Williamsburg is an open air campus where many experiences dont require admission, organizers estimate that annual visitation to Colonial Williamsburg is in the millions. As for hard data, Colonial Williamsburg sold more than 500,000 admission tickets in 2023. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts reported 490,080 in-person visitors in 2023, putting the nationally recognized art museum in second place for the state. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts saw an increase in on-site visitation and online engagement in 2023. We define our audience as all 8.7 million Virginians. Equally important to us is who visits the museum. For more than a decade, we have actively worked to become a more vibrant, inclusive cultural leader. We strive to truly reflect who we are as Virginians and as Americans through our collection, exhibitions, programs, events and, ultimately, our visitors, Alex Nyerges, director and CEO of the museum, said via email. The Science Museum of Virginia reports 2023 attendance for its downtown location as 449,014, putting it at third. With the addition of its Danville location, the Science Museum counts its total attendance at 503,391. And Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg would come in fourth, reporting 310,555 attendance in 2023. The Virginia Museum of History & Cultures attendance was 122,636 in 2023, an 81% increase over 2022 attendance. The museum was closed for a massive $30 million expansion for part of 2022. The Virginia Museum of History & Culture was recently reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the highest national standard of recognition for museums. The committee praised the museums mission and renovation project, saying, The strength of this museum is found first and foremost in the work it has done to reimagine itself as the museum for all Virginians. It has maintained its past with great respect and has woven it into the new institutions persona. The transformation has been remarkable  it serves as a model museum in all areas. The Virginia Holocaust Museums attendance in 2023 was 21,435. The top museum for online searches in the U.S., according to the previous report, went to Elvis Presleys famous former residence, Graceland, in Tennessee with over 1.2 million total reviews and 40,500 searches a month. New York Citys Metropolitan Museum of Art came in second place with 201,000 monthly searches, and 781,558 Google reviews. The Art Institute of Chicago ranked third with 165,000 searches a month, and 219,608 Google reviews.
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.
Someone uploaded the B-58 voice warning system audio to the Internet Archive a while back. I've always had an interest in military aviation, so this is quite interesting to me. The uploader has exactly one contribution with no information about who they are. There are 15 audio clips. One of which is actually a voice recording from Victor Mayer about an ejection event, which apparently he survived. That leaves 14 clips. The included page from the manual shows quite a few audio warnings

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I located an actual PDF of the B-58 flight manual and it states states "The system provides twenty channels with nineteen pre-recorded messages arranged in priority of importance". The reason why only 19 messages exist is because the manual notes one as a "spare channel".

So this is an incomplete set of audio clips. The files are distributed as stereo variable bit rate Ogg format. This makes me think whoever recorded these has very little experience in preserving audio. For clips this short, lossless compression is almost certainly appropriate. The original system is also definitely a single channel tape recording. But I'll get more into the history of this later. To my knowledge, this is the only digital recording available of the voice warning system.

I listened to the clips indvidually. All of the clips have a clearly identifiable female human voice in them. The quality is quite poor with some odd distortion and tape hiss however. I created a spectrogram of the "Engine Oil Quantity Low" recording

This appears to be in fact a mono recording with both channels identical. There is also practically no recorded signal above 5000 Hz, with almost all signal above that being 20 dB below the voice signal. I split the two channels into wave files by running ffmpeg -i EngineOilQuantityLow.ogg -map_channel 0.0.0 left.wav -map_channel 0.0.1 right.wav . In examining the two files it appears the recorded audio is actually two unique audio tracks. Practically speaking I can't discern an audible difference between the two. The actual difference may have somethng to do with the fact that I've converted a lossy format back to a lossless format. I decided that going forward I'd just analyze only the left audio track of each file.

Looking at just the left audio track of "Engine Oil Quantiy Low" over a range of 20-6000 Hz shows us this

There are a few things to note here

Several sections appear in red, this means they are "0 dB" which indicates a maximum audio level. This is why the recording is distorted There is a huge amount of noise showing up around 440 Hz that is certainly not part of the original recording. Since this audio includes human speech there is some silence. During those time, a noise pattern is very visible There is practically no audio signal around 700 Hz. It is almost a deadspot in the recording

There is to my knowledge no general algorithm to remove noise from an audio sample. The only way to do this would be to have a separate recording of only the noise, which we obviously do not have here. In the case of these recordings I suspect there are multiple sources of noise. I can think of several including the degradation of the magnetic tape, the method which was used to digitize the analog recordings & possibly some noise in the original recording studio. Since I don't have an exact representation of the noise in the audio I'll need to find a way to approximate it. As it turns out each audio clip is the same voice message played twice with a long pause between them. This allows me to make several assumptions about the audio recorded during the pause

The pause should be total silence Any audio detected during the pause is only noise The same noise is present when human voice is present

So what I set out to do was to use the pause to characterize the noise and then apply the observations from that to remove noise in the original audio. What I did was use numpy to compute the FFT of all the available audio samples from the pause of "Engine Oil Quantity low" warning audio. That showed me this

The magnitude in this relative to the total power available, so the scale is not really that important. You can see that there is a huge peak below 500 Hz. There are some other easily identifiable peaks. This is very promising as it means the noise is concentrated around certain frequencies. The next step was to identify the frequencies somehow. Since I already had the FFT, I sorted the bins by the absolute power contained in each bin. This gives me the most powerful signals in descending order. However, each bin represents only a tiny sliver of the total power in the spectrum. I don't want to wind up with dozens or hundreds of components to my noise signature.

To compute the highest power noise ranges what I did was search between the FFT bins between 260 Hz and 2850 Hz. I selected the highest power 2.5% of bins. In order to reduce this into something usable the first thing I did was merge all adjacent bins together. So instead of having a list of FFT bins, I wind up with a range of FFT bins. This reduces the total number of sources but not by enough to be practical. I then further merged all the remaining bin ranges together based on the following criteria:

if the adjacent bin ranges are separated by less than 1/2 the bandwidth of the current bin range, merge them if the adjacent bin ranges are separated by less than 20 Hz, merge them.

After performing the above merge steps I generated the same graph of the FFT but with the sections identified as noise shaded in red.

This produces a bunch of wide audio frequency ranges that are centered directly on top of the noise peaks in the FFT. So this is exactly what I was looking for. There are some other ranges identified in there as well but that is dealt with later.

The next step was to use these audio frequency ranges to filter the actual human voice in the audio. My initial attempt at doing this was simply to compute an FFT of the entire audio signal and set some of the bins to zero. This kind of works but causes a bunch of issues and can actually create noise at other frequencies. So instead what I did was build a set of Butterworth bandstop filters using Scipy's IIR filter computation code. What this does is compute a set of values representing a infinite impulse response filter. This can then applied to an audio signal. You can actually produce a plot of each filter's frequency response.

This example plot shows us that a specific filter has a huge amount of signal attenuation around the large noise source visible in the FFT we looked at earlier. Signals at other frequencies pass through with little to no attenuation. Applying this filter to the entire recording removes the noise but also removes the human voice at the same frequency. But thankfully human voice is spread out over a wide range of frequencies. So removing a narrow range of frequencies is usually called a notch filter and actually improves the overall clarity of the audio signal. The filters are applied to the signal sequentially one after the other.

One of the issues I ran into during this was that some of the filters had a frequency response plot that was basically flat. The point of maximum attenuation was sometimes insignificant at only 3 dB or so. So any filter that didn't generate at least 20 dB of attenuation I skipped applying. I'm not an expert at digital filters but my understanding is that applying any such filter always has drawbacks. So I chose to skip applying some filters that shouldn't generate much difference in the output audio anyways. My intent is skipping this avoids degradation in an otherwise un-needed step.

I also applied a high pass filter passing all signals above 260 Hz then a low pass filter passing all signals below 2850 Hz. This reduces the audio signal outside the range of normal human voice, which is probably just noise anyways.

The final trick I applied to this was to lower the audio level during the silence segments. After all, they are supposed to be silent. To avoid creating any harsh pops in the audio I used a window based on the sine function to taper the audio level down over 250 milliseconds. During the middle of the silence segment I attenuated the signal by 6 to 12 dB based off a random number generator. When the silence segment ends I use the same 250 milliseconds window based on the cosine function to taper the audio back up to normal amplitude.

I looked at the spectrogram of almost every source file. The signal between 610 Hz and 710 Hz is very low, but present. I decided that this is not intentional and wanted to boost it back up. I did this by filtering the entire clip using a bandpass filter over that frequency range. This gives me an audio clip that is the same length but with only the signal in that frequency range. I then multiplied that signal by 4 and added back into the original audio clip. The net result of this is to apply gain to that narrow frequency of audio ranges. This does come with the downside of potentially boosting any noise in that frequency range. Doing this reduces the bit resolution of the audio by a factor of a little more than 2 bits. Since the source audio is variable bit rate I don't think this matters at all.

The same overall technique was applied to all the audio clips. I think the one that sounds the best is the "Primary Hydraulic Pump Failed" clip. You can see the before and after of the spectrogram here

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The denoised clip clearly shows the notch filters that were applied to remove several large noise sources in the recording. All of the clips sound better to me, but not all of them are great.

You can download all the restored audio here in a ZIP file as well as a Python program containing the code I used to perform the restoration

I think these recordings were obtained by getting an original voice warning system back to a functional state and then playing each recording one by one. The B-58 flight manual states "The malfunction an indicator light and voice warning system test button is used to check the voice warning system. Depressing this button will start the voice warning system transmitting the highest priority message. The override button or the master warning or caution lamp may then be used to check each message in order". This sounds like the system can easily be instructed to play each message.

Given that the files are stereo audio (the original would almost certianly be mono) compressed in a VBR format, I think these were made by gaining access to a B-58 & powering up the cockpit with an external power supply. Someone then held a handheld recording device (or probably their cell phone) near the pilot's headset. At that point the system was commanded to play each message one at a time. An additional fact in support of this is the fact that almost all the files have no significant component of audio around 700 Hz. This probably means that either the headset speaker had no response at that frequency or more likely the microphone did not.

So this leads me to my last question: Who is it that we are listening to? A quick search around the internet provides a common answer: Joan Elms. I don't really know who Joan Elms is so I looked up her IMDB page. Apparently she was a voice performer and is also uncredited in at least one film as an acrtress. The IMDB page even mentions "Recorded for Nortronics Division of Northrop Corporation the automated voice warnings used on the Convair B-58 "Hustler" bomber aircraft." You can find dozens of web pages including Wikipedia mentioning this.

The problem with this, I have literally no idea who Joan Elms is. There is no information on her at all. I can't find statements from Elms, her publicist or anyone indicating she is the voice we hear. It's all secondhand sources that seem to just cite each other. But if we go the July 1962 edition of Popular Science we are greeted by this on page 76

Pictured is Gina Drazin, who was a secretary at Northrop at the time. Later pages in the same issue state 12 women's voices were tried along with at least 6 men's. Ultimately, Gina Drazin became the voice of the B-58. This is documented in a contemporary source, which I consider to be much more reliable than an IMDB page.

But if that isn't enough for you, in 2016 the Washington Post ran a piece which Gina Drazin was interviewed for along with her husband. So that is two primary sources separated by 54 years both interviewing the same individual.

I'll quickly mention autiobiographical accounts should always be scrutinized. But I find it highly unlikely that a secretary for a defense contractor like Northrop would be able to pass herself off as something she was not in the 1960s. It was not even until 1974 in the United States that women were allowed to open a bank account on their own. What possible reason would Drazin have for this anyways? So to me that settles it, Joan Elms is most definitely not the voice of the B-58. It is Gina Drazin.

Unfortunately Gina Drazin passed away in 2022. So I can't reach out to her but I can at least set the record straight.

It is entirely possible however that Joan Elms voice was recorded to be the voice of the B-58 but was never selected.
Rep. Bob Good, R-5th, fired back on Monday at critics who have accused him of disloyalty to former President Donald Trump because of his endorsement of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who withdrew from the presidential race on Sunday.

Good, who immediately endorsed Trump after DeSantis dropped out of the race, aimed mostly at state Sen. John McGuire, R-Goochland, who is challenging him in the Republican primary for the 5th District congressional seat.

He is a perpetual candidate in search of a race, said Good, noting that McGuire is running his fifth race since 2021, including a brief challenge for the 5th District nomination in 2022.

I think the voters of the 5th District see him for who and what he is.

McGuire declared his congressional candidacy in November eight days after winning an election for the new 10th District Senate seat, labeling Good as a never-Trumper who had betrayed the former president who had helped him get elected.

Now Bob Good has come groveling back to Trump in order to save his own hide  friends, dont trust him, McGuire said Sunday in a statement after DeSantis dropped out and Good endorsed the former president. Bob will stab Trump in the back AGAIN the first chance he gets.

Good responded in an interview on Monday, Anything that comes from Mr. McGuire obviously flows from unlimited personal ambition in pursuit of what he perceives as the next rung on the political ladder for him.

He also took aim at three people who he said are backing McGuires campaign  former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., whom Good helped oust as House leader in October; former House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, who represented Virginias 7th Congressional District before his surprise defeat in the Republican primary in 2014; and former Rep. Denver Riggleman, R-5th, whom Good defeated in a bitter Republican primary in 2020 in reprisal for officiating at the same-sex wedding of a staff member.

I really think my opponent should have all three of them campaign for him, he said.

McGuire, in a phone interview on Monday, denied he is getting support from any of those former Republican leaders.

Im not being backed by any of those people, he said. My motive to run is watching his behavior around the district.

McGuire, who campaigned for Trump in Iowa ahead of the caucuses, said Good had burned bridges at every level of government.

Hes a burn it all down, tear it all up, no solutions kind of a guy, McGuire said.

Most of all, McGuire faulted Good for receiving money and endorsements from both Trump and McCarthy and then he backstabbed them.

Good had little to say about Chris LaCivita, a senior aide to Trumps campaign, who told Cardinal News last week, Bob Good wont be electable when we get done with him.

The congressman said he does not know LaCivita, a longtime Republican political operative in Virginia, and called the statement an isolated comment.

Good acknowledged that he had endorsed DeSantis over Trump, citing both the prospect of eight years as president instead of four and the potential political damage to Trump from multiple criminal indictments.

I was concerned about the political prosecution of President Trump, said Good, blaming the indictments on these egregious prosecutors who are simply after him for political reasons.

It has energized and rallied the Republican electorate around President Trump, he said.

Good, elected this year as chairman of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, said his support for Trump will help the former president accomplish his goals if he is elected again in November.

As chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, it will be vitally important to have a close working relationship with President Trump, he said. Well be the one who will help in the House to implement his second-term agenda.

The Freedom Caucus challenged McCarthys election as House speaker at the opening of the new Congress in January. Good was one of eight Republicans who voted in October  with unified support from Democrats  to overthrow McCarthy. The Republicans objected to McCarthys support of a stopgap funding package at the end of September to keep the federal government open and fund it at levels agreed upon in a deal with President Joe Biden.

The caucus supported a subsequent continuing resolution that new House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., proposed in November. It extended funding until last Friday for part of the government and Feb. 2 for the rest of it.

But Good opposed a deal that Johnson reached with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on $1.66 trillion to fund the government in the fiscal year that began on Oct. 1. He and other members of the caucus also opposed a stopgap spending bill that Congress approved and Biden signed on Friday to avert a shutdown and delay the deadline for appropriation bills until March 2 and 8.

If Trump is elected president, Good said, hell need us as the ones who arent joining hands with the Democrats.

McGuire said Trump would need someone he could trust.

Hes been attacking Trump all over the district, McGuire said of Good. The thing is, you cant trust him.

When he doesnt get his way, he partners with the Democrats to get what he wants.

Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at Liberty University
General Assembly leaders expect to elect two new judges to the State Corporation Commission on Wednesday, ending a political stalemate that began two years ago and left two-thirds of the seats vacant on a panel that oversees some of Virginias most important industries.

But the candidates remain a mystery.

Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Charlottesville, chairman of the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee, said he and House Labor and Commerce Chair Jeion Ward, D-Hampton, have winnowed an initial field of 23 candidates down to five, but he declined to identify them because of their current jobs.

Im not going to share names now, Deeds said Sunday.

But he said the identity of the two finalists will become known on Tuesday, when the committees plan a joint public hearing.

The two jobs will not be equal because one will last for four years, while the other will cover six years. The legislature is moving to fill seats left vacant by Angela Navarro, whom House Republicans refused to reelect after her term expired in 2022 and again last year, and Judy Jagdmann, who resigned at the beginning of last year, in part, to give House Republicans and Senate Democrats the opportunity to compromise on electing two judges instead of one.

It did not work out that way because House Republicans objected to Senate Democrats choice of Navarro, but now Democrats hold a narrow majority in both chambers and can pick judges for both seats.

Getting close, said Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, who had been frustrated by the House Republicans opposition to Navarro.

The SCC, created as a constitutionally independent body in 1902 to regulate some of the biggest businesses in Virginia, has been operating without a full panel of judges since early 2022 because of a political stalemate that began in 2018 after the retirement of Judge Jimmy Dimitri.

The impasse threatened to leave the SCC unable to issue rulings for the first time in its 120-year history, but Dimitri came out of retirement last year to serve as a replacement judge. That ensured that the commission would have a quorum to operate until the assembly elected judges to fill the vacancies.

The commission oversees regulation of public utilities, such as electric and natural gas companies, banks and financial services, and insurance companies. It runs Virginias new health insurance marketplace to administer the Affordable Care Act and registers all corporate and other entities doing business in the state.

Currently, the only full-time judge sitting on the SCC is Jehmal Hudson, a former federal energy official and the first African American elected to the state commission. The assembly elected him in 2020 to replace Judge Patricia West, a former Virginia Beach circuit court judge and longtime Republican mainstay who has served in a number of state posts.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin appointed West last year to chair the Virginia Parole Board. The previous year, Republican majorities in both chambers elected West to replace Dimitri, who had retired in early 2018, but Democrats took control after legislative elections in November 2019.

In 2021, assembly Democrats elected Navarro, who had worked as deputy secretary of natural resources under then-Gov. Ralph Northam, a Democrat, to serve the unexpired term of Judge Mark Christie after his appointment to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The next year, after Republicans regained control of the House, they refused to reelect Navarro, partly in retaliation for Wests replacement and partly out of concern over implementation of the Virginia Clean Economy Act. After Jagdmanns resignation, they balked at the Senates choice of Navarro again last year.

Virginia General Assembly opens 2024 session
Authorities begin work to address ongoing Holbox street flooding

Holbox, Q.R.  State authorities have begun work to address the ongoing flooding issues on Holbox. For years the island has suffered extensive street flooding with heavy rains.

State officials say roads will be improved without affecting the authenticity of the island. On Sunday, officials from the National Water Commission (Conagua), the State Coordination of Civil Protection (Coeproc) and the Secretariat of Public Works (Seop) carried out a tour of the Island.

Their goal was to address the flooding caused by the recent rains while respecting the authenticity of the island.

A tour was carried out to analyze the current situation on some of the roads on the island such as Tiburon Ballena Street, Paseo Kuka and Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, among others.

State authorities arrived on the island Sunday to address the ongoing flooding issue. Photo: CGC January 21, 2024.

Thanks to the efforts of Governor Mara Lezama, the Government of Mexico and the Government of Quintana Roo, we will work together to address the situation in Holbox and resolve the requests of the residents of this beautiful paradise, said State Civil Protection Coordinator Guillermo Nunez.

He pointed out that Conagua has provided the equipment to remove rainwater from the streets and subsequently begin work through the Secretariat of Public Works to improve the conditions of the roads.

Conagua is seen here draining a flooded Holbox street with pumps after recent weekend rains. Photo: CGC January 21, 2024.

He said that they are working to improve the effected roads without impacting or modifying the essence of the island.

The work tour was led by the heads of the Coeproc and Seop, Guillermo Nunez and Irazu Sarabia, respectively.
Mexicos Navy sends 30 to reinforce Tulum security

Tulum, Q.R.  Over two dozen military personnel have been deployed to Tulum to assist in public law and order. A group of 30 soldiers arrived at the start of the weekend. They have since been integrated into those already assigned to Tulum to reinforce public security.

Tulum Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo says Mexicos military personnel will join the Tulum Secretariat of Public Security and Citizen Protection. He says in addition to the latest 30 arrivals from the Secretariat of the Navy (Semar), security in Tulum will also be reinforced with equipment and technology.

Thirty sailors have just arrived to further reinforce the security of the municipality and they will be helping in several neighborhoods, providing patrols so that people feel safer, said the Mayor.

Castanon Trejo commented that currently there are approximately 250 military personnel assigned to Tulum to provide security, however, he says they are also rotating between other municipalities and states.

From the federal side we have 90 sailors deployed in the municipality and others who are also supporting us such as Sedena, National Guard, the State Police and the Municipal Police, and there is also the Prosecutors Office which does other types of investigations but also takes care of the citizens, he explained.

Sedena and the Army are supporting us a lot. We are very grateful to the Governor who has brought federal forces since we have to work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, he said.

In addition, the mayor added that in 2024, they will continue working to install more surveillance cameras, patrols and reinforce the security arches at the three entry points of Tulum.

The most recent addition of 30 uniformed personnel arrived at the Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport.

Mexicos Navy sends 30 additional personnel to reinforce Tulum s public security. Photo: January 17, 2024.

We are proud to announce the arrival of 30 more brave Navy personnel to reinforce security in our beloved municipality. This measure is a firm step towards a safer and calmer environment, both for our citizens and for the tourists who visit us, the Secretariat of Public Security and Civil Protection of Tulum posted on social media.
The Radford Army Ammunition Plant will hold its next Commanders Community Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the Christiansburg Library.

Additionally, the event will be broadcast on Facebook Live from the Radford Army Ammunition Plant Facebook page, according to an RAAP news release.

The meetings are open to the public, and are an opportunity to learn about modernization and environmental projects and also offer time for questions, according to the release.

The library is located at 125 Sheltman Street.

The arsenals environmental record and its stated plan to improve its processes has been an ongoing discussion between the facility and public.

The Roanoke Times
Dialogue on Race summit Jan. 27

The Dialogue on Race 2024 Winter Summit, Taking Stock and Moving On, is set for Saturday, Jan. 27, at Christiansburg Middle School, 1205 Buffalo Dr. NW.

It will include the events signature format, in-person interactive small-table conversations. Registration Starts at 8 a.m. with a Coffee w/Cops that starts at 9 a.m. The summit program will begin at 10 a.m. with a light lunch at noon, complements of The Community Group of Montgomery County and the New Mountain Climbers Giving Circle.

Chris Heilig, panel member at the 2023 Winter Summit, will shares her perspective, experiences and insights about race and racism as it impacts public education in Montgomery County Public Schools, during the event, according to a Dialogue on Race news release.

The Coffee w/Cops part of the day will give participants a chance to meet and learn from law enforcement officers from the towns, county and Virginia Tech, according to the release.

The summit is an occasion for community members to convene, renew acquaintances, build new relationships, and share in doing the work of building a stronger, self-help community and all are welcome, according to the release.

The summit will convene in the middle schools cafeteria space. Small group dialogue sessions at the tables will deepen understanding and insight about combating racial injustice, according to the release.

The Dialogue on Race mission is to create a forum that examines racial issues articulated by the African-American community in Montgomery County and then develops and implements solutions.

To register for the event prior to Jan. 27, go to:

- The Roanoke Times
Virginias Senate approved a bill to prevent defeated political candidates from double-dipping in both primary and general elections, such as what happened in Roanoke County last year.

Sen. David Suetterlein, R-Roanoke County, is the primary sponsor of Senate Bill 109, approved by a 30-10 vote during Senates floor session Monday. Recent local elections exposed the issue the bill aims to prevent, Suetterlein said during a subcommittee meeting last week.

In the community I represent, a candidate challenged the incumbent supervisor, ran against the supervisor until the Friday before the primary, recognized that the supervisor was going to be renominated, withdrew and immediately filed as an independent at the same visit to the registrars office, Suetterlein said. And then ran against them as an independent.

Those events reflect the reelection of Roanoke County Supervisor Martha Hooker last year. Her opponent, Tom McCracken, dropped out of the Republican primary election days before voting ended, only to turn around and re-register as an independent candidate for the same seat. McCracken would later drop his independent campaign.

That was the only primary we had going on in a lot of that area, so that meant the taxpayers, the registrars, had to go through all that work, Suetterlein said, adding that the incumbent also had to pay more for campaigning. When the reality was the other candidate just quit and then ran as an independent.

So, SB 109 would require candidates filing for office to acknowledge that their name will not be printed on general election ballots if they are not nominated during the primary election.

It was widely understood that you were defeated if you did not win the nomination, Suetterlein said. If you actually go through the process, votes are actually being cast, your name appeared on the [primary] ballot, then you cant then run as independent.

The new acknowledgement putting that understanding into writing would be part of candidacy forms that people already sign when filing for office at their registrars office.

For now, in practice the bill would only apply to Republicans and Democrats, since those are the political parties that regularly see primary elections.

This is not revolutionary, Suetterlein said. This just goes back to our understanding prior to this year.

Sen. Aaron Rouse, D-Virginia Beach, said he wondered how pervasive the problem is. Suetterlein said its something that could come up more frequently now that its happened once, especially for state and local races.

It was an issue for my community, and I think its gonna become an issue for a lot of our communities, Suetterlein said. As polling gets more sophisticated, more people are going to know a few days before their primary that theyre not going to make it.

The Democratic-majority Senate voted in favor of Suetterleins bill on Monday during the bills third and final reading in that chamber. Later during the lawmaking session, the Democrat-controlled state House will take it up for further consideration.
A home was damaged in Salem by a fire on Sunday afternoon.

The city Fire & EMS Department responded to the structure fire on Starview Drive at approximately 2 p.m., according to a city news release.

The four residents who occupy the dwelling were not home when the fire started and no one was injured, according to the release.

When firefighters arrived just five minutes after receiving the 911 call, they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear of the structure and heavy smoke coming from the attic. Crews immediately began an interior fire attack and primary search of the building, and a second water line was pulled to extinguish the flames in the attic, according to the release.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within 20 minutes of arrival, but the structure did sustain significant fire, smoke, and water damage.

About 30 personnel from the Salem Fire & EMS Department (Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Rescue 801, Medic 802, Medic 803, Battalion 1 & Fire Medic 1) and the Roanoke Fire & EMS Department (Engine 13, Ladder 5 Battalion 2) responded to the call, according to the release.

The residents were displaced by the fire, and they are being assisted by the American Red Cross. The fire remains under investigation by the Salem Fire Marshals Office and there is no estimate of damage currently, according to the release.
Microsoft confirmed that Russian-backed hackers were able to access corporate documents and emails of its senior leadership team in a data breach on Jan. 12, Friday.

The tech giant announced the cyberattack last Friday that the state-sponsored Midnight Blizzard, also known as Nobelium, launched the "nation-state attack" on the company system.

Midnight Blizzard Breached Employee Emails Since November

According to reports, the hackers started the attack in November last year using a "password spray attack" to infiltrate "a very small percentage" of Microsoft email accounts.

Microsoft assured that the breach was not caused by vulnerabilities in the company's system.

According to the company, the hackers were not able to access its servers for customer environments, production systems, source code, or AI system.

Microsoft is still investigating the attack to identify all affected employees.

Also Read: Russia-Linked Hackers Launch Phishing Attacks on 40 Govt Orgs

State-Sponsored Hackers Increase Cyberattacks on US

Nobelium's attack on Microsoft was not the first time the Russian-backed group orchestrated a data breach on a major institution in the United States, nor it will be the last.

The group launched various attacks on government websites and IT services across the UK and US, including a cyberattack on Microsoft three years ago.

Microsoft has since labeled the group as the "most sophisticated nation-state" hackers.

The past two years have seen a surge of cyberattacks from state-sponsored hackers, particularly from China and Russia, CNBC reported.

The attacks follow after the increasing tension between the three nations in the Indo-Pacific region and the US's support to Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

For Microsoft's part, the tech giant is now "shifting the balance" to better protect itself against threat actors and state-sponsored attacks.

The company launched the Secure Future Initiative last year to improve its cybersecurity via AI cyber defenses, advanced software engineering, and advocacy against online threats.

Related Article: Understanding Cyber Attacks: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention
SEABROOK, New Hampshire  The final CNN/University of New Hampshire poll ahead of Tuesdays Republican presidential primary election showed former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley trailing former President Donald Trump 50% to 39% among likely GOP primary voters.

Late-breaking news on Sunday that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis would be dropping out of the race solidified what Haley claimed since the end of the Iowa caucuses  she is in a one-on-one race with Trump.

There were 14 people in this race, Haley told a crowd of supporters at Browns Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire, shortly after the news broke. They were a lot of fellas. All the fellas are out, except for this one. And this comes down to what do you want. Do you want more of the same, or do you want something new?

In addition to her losses in the poll, as some had Haley and Trump neck-and-neck just a few days ago, optimism among likely Haley voters lags significantly behind that of likely Trump voters. Only 50% of Haley supporters said they believe she will win the Tuesday primary compared to 97% of Trump supporters voicing confidence in his victory.

According to the poll, 70% of all Republican primary voters believe Trump will win the states presidential primary.

Andrew Smith, director of the UNH Survey Center, believes Haleys failure to lead Trump in polls thus far may be driving the low confidence in her as a candidate.

Its hard to stay energized and focused when your candidate does seem to be losing, Smith said. Its a tough environment.

In addition to the low confidence among Haleys voters in the poll, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, who endorsed her and has traveled with her across the state, said the campaign always wanted to have a strong second place finish in the primary. Sununu said in December that New Hampshire was an absolute win for Haley.

Some New Hampshire voters who said they would support Haley shared similar sentiments regarding their preferred candidates ability to win. Hannah Rutten, a 20-year-old voter from Amherst, N.H., said that the outlook for an outright Haley victory is pretty grim due to Trumps commanding lead in the poll.

Were just hoping that independents in New Hampshire can come and sway the election in favor of Haley and away from Trump, she said ahead of news that DeSantis would drop out of the race. Thats what were hoping for right now.

At the time, both Hannah and her younger brother Benjamin Rutten said they were on the fence between voting for Haley or DeSantis. However, Benjamin, an 18-year-old first-time voter, said he is a bit more optimistic about Haleys chances to win the primary compared to his sister.

I think Trump definitely has a lead, definitely is more likely to win, he said. But I think her chances are a lot better than they used to be. And overall, Id say Im optimistic. I mean, if I werent, then I wouldnt really be thinking about supporting her over DeSantis.Despite the optimism, Benjamin agreed with Sununus claim that a strong second-place finish would be enough for Haley to remain in the race, especially given that the next primary will be in her home state of South Carolina.

Overall though, Benjamin said the positive is Haleys combination of a strong on-the-ground presence in New Hampshire and polls indicating a tighter gap between her and Trump compared to the Iowa caucuses.David Smith, a 78-year-old Haley supporter from Stratham, expressed similar sentiments to Benjamin, as he said that even a close second-place finish would help Haley gain momentum on Trump.

I dont know if shell win outright, even on Tuesday, but I think its gonna make her a lot stronger and bringing her a lot closer to Trump, he said after the news of DeSantis dropping out of the race broke.
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.
The Alzheimers Foundation of America (AFA) will host a free Alzheimers & Caregiving Educational Conference for South Carolina residents on Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbia Greystone (200 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia) to kick off its 2024 national Educating America Tour.

The free conference is open to everyone and will allow participants to learn from experts in the field of Alzheimers disease, brain health, and caregiving. To register, go to www.alzfdn.org/tour.

Knowledge is a useful and powerful tool that can help make any situation easier to navigate, especially something as challenging as caring for a loved one with Alzheimers disease, said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., AFAs president and CEO.

Connecting families with useful, practical information and support that can help them now and be better prepared for the future is what this conference is all about. Whether Alzheimers is affecting your family, you are a caregiver or just want to learn more about brain health, we invite you to join us on Feb. 21.

Sessions during the AFA conference will include:

An Overview of Alzheimers Disease Nishanth Kodumuri, MD, will provide a general overview of Alzheimers disease, including warning signs, prevention and treatments, and lifestyle approaches to management of the disease.

Kodumuri is an associate professor of vascular neurology at Prisma Health/USC School of Medicine and stroke medical director at Prisma Health-Baptist Hospital in Columbia. Kodumuri is also president of the South Carolina Neurological Association.

How Elder Law Protects You Thomas Hughes, J.D., will discuss how elder law differs from estate planning and the important legal documents you should have in place to make sure that your health, legal and financial wishes are carried out as you want.

Hughes is an associate attorney with LawyerLisa, LLC, which serves the entire state of South Carolina, focusing on elder law, estate planning, wills, trusts, health care directives, and powers of attorney.

The Traumatic Impact of Alzheimers Disease from the Socio-Ecological Systems ModelShawna Kirby, PhD, will discuss how Alzheimers disease not only impacts ones inner circle, but how it affects society from healthcare providers to insurance companies and first responders. She will also talk about the options for families when they dont have the financial or physical resources to care for their loved ones and the impact this has on the economy and medical care.

Kirby is a clinical forensic neuropsychologist and the owner of Midlands Neurobehavioral Services.

Free, confidential memory screenings will be conducted throughout the day.

For more information or to register for the Feb. 21 conference in Columbia, visit www.alzfdn.org/tour. Those who cannot participate in the conference or have immediate questions about Alzheimers disease can connect with licensed social workers seven days a week through AFAs National Toll-Free Helpline by calling 866-232-8484, texting 646-586-5283, or web chatting at www.alzfdn.org by clicking the blue and white chat icon in the right-hand corner of the page. The web chat and text message features are available in more than 90 languages.
SAC CITY, Iowa  A Sac City woman has pleaded not guilty of stabbing her boyfriend.

Corrina Evans, 61, entered her written plea in Sac County District Court to charges of attempted murder, domestic abuse assault causing bodily injury and willful injury resulting in bodily injury.

According to court documents, Evans threatened to kill her long-term boyfriend Ruel Anderson and herself, then stabbed Anderson in the elbow with a black-handled folding knife on Oct. 22 at a house in the 600 block of Leonard Street in Sac City.

Police responding to the call found Anderson outside the house yelling, and he was taken to the hospital for treatment.

During an interview with police, Evans admitted stabbing Anderson, but said it was not on purpose, court documents said. She told investigators Anderson had rushed her while she had been holding the knife and was threatening to kill herself.
WAYNE, Neb.  A rural Wisner, Nebraska, man charged with fatally shooting his father was bound over to district court Monday to face murder and other charges.

Carl Ruskamp, 31, waived his right to a preliminary hearing in Wayne County Court and was bound over to district court, where is he scheduled for a Feb. 7 arraignment on charges of first-degree murder, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony and possession of a deadly weapon by a felon. Judge Ross Stoffer ordered Ruskamp's bond to remain at $1 million.

Ruskamp is charged with the Sept. 7, 2022, shooting death of Gerald Ruskamp, 65, at a rural Wayne County home.

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office was called to a home in the 300 block of Y Road in rural Wayne County on Sept. 7, 2022, and found Gerald Ruskamp, 65, with a gunshot wound to the back of his head. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

According to court documents, Carl Ruskamp told deputies he was outside when he heard a shot and then saw a someone run from the house. Ruskamp said when he entered the house, he found Gerald Ruskamp with a gunshot wound.

During their investigation, authorities found a .22-caliber rifle in a closet, .22-caliber ammunition in Carl Ruskamp's bedroom and two empty shell casings.

Duane Ruskamp, who also lived at the house, said he had been outside and did not hear a gunshot or see anyone run from the house. According to court documents, he told investigators Carl and Gerald Ruskamp had been arguing earlier that day and he had heard Carl Ruskamp talking on the phone or to himself, saying something like "kill Ger."

Authorities who searched Carl Ruskamp's phone found a threatening text message he had sent to Gerald Ruskamp. His google search history also included items such as "bullet in brain."

Tests showed the shell casings were fired by the rifle seized from the house, and blood on the shirt Carl Ruskamp was wearing at the time of his arrest matched his father's DNA.

While investigating the shooting, authorities found a marijuana-growing operation on the property. Carl Ruskamp has pleaded not guilty of manufacturing a controlled substance and awaits trial.

Duane Ruskamp, 65, pleaded no contest to possession of less than 1 pound of marijuana and was fined $300.
Earl Horlyk Food and Lifestyles reporter Follow Earl Horlyk 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

NORTH SIOUX CITY  Tucked away in a strip mall, Chef Al's Snack Shop is not easy to find. But as soon as the doors open, you smell the enticing aroma of freshly cut onions, garlic and tomatoes emanating from inside.

This is where Chef Al's Sioux Salsa is made, one plastic container at a time.

But if you're looking for Chef Al, well, he doesn't actually exist.

Instead, Chef Al's Snack Shop, 554 River Dr., and Chef Al's Sioux Salsa, available at the store as well as many at many Hy-Vee locations, is the brainchild of James Alger.

"We make handmade salsa in small batches and we wanted to sell it under a personal name," he explained. "Since my last name is Alger, the salsa's brand became Chef Al's. Because it was made locally, we added Sioux to the title in order to make it complete."

Chef Al's Sioux Salsa Containers of Chef Al's Sioux Salsa are shown in a cooler at Chef Al's Snack Shop, 554 River Drive in North Sioux City. The handmade salsa is 

With that confusion out of the way, how did Alger get into business?

"For as long as I can remember, I always wanted to be the boss," he said. "Even when I was a little kid who worked in a movie theater, I imagined, some day, I'll own this place."

During his teen years and all the way through college, Alger worked in a variety of restaurant kitchens.

Even after graduating from college, he began working for several different Hy-Vee stores, including a more-than-six-year stint in the catering department at the Southern Hills location.

It was there that Alger, along with his friend and coworker Daniel Nampha, came up with the recipe for the perfect Pico De Gallo.

"Whenever Daniel and I would set up a taco station, the Pico drew raves," Alger said. "People would say you should really market and sell this stuff. It would fly off the shelves."

Chef Al's Sioux Salsa Daniel Nampha, left, and owner James Alger, cut and dice tomatoes while making a batch of Chef Al's Sioux Salsa. Alger's last name is the sour

Chef Al's Sioux Salsa Daniel Nampha, left, and owner James Alger, cut and dice tomatoes while making a batch of Chef Al's Sioux Salsa. The salsas come in mild, medi

In 2022, Alger started his own business, creating a menu of specialty salsas that came in mild, medium and hot. The ever-expanding list of flavors include Carolina Reaper, mango habanero and jalapeno pineapple garlic, among others.

Every single Chef Al's Sioux Salsa is made in the same exacting way by both Alger and Nampha.

"Everyone thinks making salsa is easy but it really is a process," Alger explained as he and Nampha begin an assembly line of cutting and dicing fresh tomatoes, peppers and garlic.

So, what are some of the secrets behind the Chef Al's Sioux Salsa brand? Well, Alger uses a brine to enhance the flavor of the salsa as well as a few pinches of sugar to combat the bitter acidity of tomatoes.

Then he transfers all of the ingredients into a cement mixer.

Chef Al's Sioux Salsa Daniel Nampha, cuts onions while making a batch of Chef Al's Sioux Salsa at Chef Al's Snack Shop. A veteran cook, Nampha said the best way to 

Wait, a cement mixer! What is that used for?

"The concept of using a small cement mixer to blend salsa came to me one night," Alger said. "A food processor has a tendency to mush up ingredients while making them too watery. A cement mixer operates at a much slower rate, allowing you to control the final product."

The proof is in the salsa, which is bringing an increasing number of fans into Chef Al's Snack Shop, where a host of locally produced foods and gift items are also sold.

Eventually, Alger would like to expand his business into a full-fledged catering operations. Until then, he is happy making his flavorful line of specialty salsas.

"When you want an easy snack, nothing satisfies your appetite like some chips and salsa," he said.
Donald Trumps blowout win in Iowa was a wake-up call for Democrats, but not for the reason they think.

The reaction from the left over Trumps 51% rout in the states Republican caucuses was expectedly agitated.

Former Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., declared on MSNBCs Morning Joe that it wasnt that great of a night for Trump, and that getting 50% of the vote was actually a bad thing.

President Joe Biden posted to X: But heres the thing: This election was always going to be you and me vs. extreme MAGA Republicans. It was true yesterday and itll be true tomorrow.

And Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., who is running for Senate, rolled out a new Jan. 6-themed ad warning of a dire future ahead following former Trumps win in Iowa, The Hill reported.

Now, we face an even greater danger, the ad narrator states as video shows the New York Times headline Why a Second Trump Presidency May be More Radical than His First.

It is, to a degree, a repeat of 2016, when Trump supporters were written off as racist, sexist, hyper-religious filler in a basket of deplorables.

The results of election night 2016 had media and pundits reeling. As the results came in, NBC News Chuck Todd declared: Rural America is basically screaming at us, saying, Stop overlooking us!

It wasnt just rural America, Trump voters across the country sent the message that they, the hardworking, taxpaying, non-elite didnt feel like anyone was listening to them but Trump.

The sloughing off of non-Democrats from the zone of political importance has only gotten worse as progressives have maneuvered their agenda to the top of the pile. Dont want an electric car -- youre part of the problem. Balk at picking up the tax tab so college students can walk away from some of their loans -- you just dont get it.

One of the factors behind Trumps 2016 win was the silent cadre of supporters -- those who didnt show up to rallies or wave signs. They didnt want to appear with those who did -- but they voted all the same.

Now Democrats are repeating the same plays, casting Trump supporters as a homogenous threat and not as diverse fellow Americans with issues worth listening to.

Trump voters know its not OK for eggs to cost $6 a dozen, no matter how much Team Joe touts Bidenomics as a good thing. They see cities and states buckling under the strain of sheltering waves of migrants to their fiscal detriment, while Biden paints a rosier border picture.

Democrats in power had four years to listen, learn and lean in. Instead, Biden appealed to and continues to appease the progressive wing of the party, in a bid to remain on the good side of younger voters.

Theyre a voting bloc, but theyre not the only one, and certainly not the only one of importance.

Bidens poll numbers are approaching the earths core, with an ABC News/Ipsos poll finding a 33% approval rating. He can dismiss Trumps supporters as extremists all, but the promoter of national unity must realize that you and me includes everyone.

Biden and Co. can get with the program and start paying attention to all Americans, not just the progressive blue-staters, or be in for a very rough November night in 2024.
DES MOINES  Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds and Republican Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to defend Iowas halted law that bans abortions early in pregnancy.

The pair spoke during an anti-abortion rally at the Iowa State Capitol on the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision overturned by the court in June 2022 that provided a federally protected right to abortion.

Lawmakers last year passed and Reynolds signed into law House File 732  which remains tied up in court  during a rare special session of the Legislature. It would change the amount of time women have to seek an abortion from 20 weeks post-fertilization to as little as six weeks  before many women know theyre pregnant.

The legislation prohibits abortions after cardiac activity is detected in an embryo. It includes exceptions for rape and incest and medical emergencies.

A Polk County District Court judge granted a request from Iowa abortion providers to halt enforcement of the new restrictions until its constitutionality can be considered by the courts.

Reynolds and Bird have asked the state Supreme Court to allow the new law to go into effect.

It truly was an act of courage and conviction that will ultimately save precious lives, the governor said of passing bills in 2018 and again last year that would ban nearly all abortions. As we continue to fight in the courts, I want thank you for putting Iowa firmly on the side of life.

Since both the U.S. and Iowa Supreme Courts overturned the right to an abortion, Reynolds said the abortion industry and its allies have sunk to new lows in their attacks on the unborn.

In this environment, there are those who say the pro-life movement should back down, the governor continued. They say that standing unapologetically for life is too risky, or it cost too much. My response is simple: I will never back down from protecting the innocent and unborn."

Reynolds added the work of building a robust culture of life that supports new and expecting mothers continues this session.

She mentioned her proposal to increase the coverage of postpartum care for new moms under Medicaid from two months to 12 months. Iowa is one of only a handful of states that has not implemented the extension, which was made available to states in the American Rescue Plan Act.

To accomplish this, Reynolds office said she would propose changing the eligibility for Medicaid coverage of birth and postpartum care to 215 percent of the federal poverty line from 375 percent under current law. While the benefits would be extended, fewer would qualify  keeping Medicaid costs for pregnancy and postpartum care neutral.

Reynolds, in her Condition of the State address earlier this month, also proposed a program to connect Iowans in need with faith-based organizations and the private sector and steer them away from government assistance.

Bird said all life has value and must be protected. And "as a mom, as a pro-life woman said she is thankful to get to defend our heartbeat law before the Iowa Supreme Court.

We know that were going to be successful, the Iowa Attorney General told the crowd gathered in the Capitol rotunda for the annual Iowa Rally for Life. We just have to keep working and never give up. Were never going to give up when it comes to doing the right thing.

Bird said all legal briefs from supporters and opponents of Iowas abortion ban are due to be filed with the Iowa Supreme Court by the end of this month. She said she anticipates the court will hear oral arguments this spring and that a ruling is likely by the end of June.

Planned Parenthood reports spike in people traveling to Iowa for care

Iowa Democratic Party chair Rita Hart, in a statement, said the U.S. Supreme Courts decision that overturned Roe v Wade is a stark reminder of just how important it is to vote in every election.

Hart said Iowa Democrats stand with the majority of Iowans who want to secure our fundamental freedoms by safeguarding the right to choose.

We all must continue our work to ensure that Iowa women have access to the reproductive health care they need, and put people over politics by protecting these critical rights wed all held for 50 years before Dobbs, Hart said.

Should the court uphold Iowas six-week abortion ban, Iowa Democrats say it would force Iowans to travel to neighboring states like Illinois and Minnesota to receive lifesaving reproductive health care.

Planned Parenthood North Central States said it has seen a nearly 100 percent increase in patients traveling from outside of its five-state region to get an abortion, including an increase in patients coming from states like Texas, Florida and Missouri, which passed laws making abortion illegal in nearly all or most cases. And in states that have banned abortion, maternal and infant mortality are on the rise, sexually transmitted infection rates are climbing, and health care deserts are growing, said Ruth Richardson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States.

It operates health centers and provides abortion care in Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota and Nebraska.

Everyone has a right to health care. And your ZIP code shouldnt dictate the care you can access, Dr. Sarah Traxler, chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood North Central States, said in a statement. Some patients have to travel hundreds of miles to see me. They deserve to access abortion care in their own communities.
Its Advice Week! In On Second Thought, well revisit questions from the archives and dig into how much has changed since Slate began giving advice in 1997and how much hasnt. Read all stories here.

For todays edition, we dug through Slates archives and unearthed questions sent to Prudie from the 1990s. Weve asked todays columnists to weigh in with modern-day sensibilities.

Dear Prudie,

I hope you dont find this too personal or indelicate a subject for public consumption, but I am in a dilemma about a relationship.

I am divorced, mid-30s, with one child. A while ago I started to see an older man (he is 50) who is very taken with me and genuinely likes my son. He is starting to think long-term, but my reservation is that he is iffy in the boudoir department. Do you think this is a legitimate consideration, or am I being sappy?

In a dither in Boston

Original Response:

Dear In,

Unfortunately, you do not define what you mean by iffy. Do you mean he is putting off going to bed, so you wonder if he has declared his major? Or do you mean youve already been to bed and are thinking you could put up with this if he were a billionaire?

No matter. Prudies advice would probably be the same for either situation: You must determine the importance of sex in your life. You are still young, so you can afford some more looking time. On the other hand, you may already have run through a number of klinkers and determined that its a jungle out there.

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You cant go wrong giving it more time to see how things develop. Prudie does not wish to sound like a Ouija board or the thing in the cookie, but time reveals much.

Prudie, patiently

From: Dear Prudence (June 13, 1998).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Dither,

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If were talking about erectile dysfunction, there are pills for that. You can encourage him to ask his doctor about his options. Yes, in 2024 there are online purveyors, but sometimes theres an underlying medical issue at work so talking it through with a primary care physician is best. If the issue is more skills-based, you can try communicating what you need more of (or less of). From there, youll have to see whether he follows through on your suggestions. Thatll let you know whether hes willing and able to make changes in order to help the sexual part of your relationship work.

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If he is, great. If he isnt, youll have to weigh whether sex is super important for you or not. Writing a pros/cons list might help you decide.Stoya

Dear Prudence,

As 1998 has drawn to a close, I have found myself in evaluation mode and have felt ever increasingly blue and bluer. Though I do long for a permanent relationship, I also have not been gathering moss till the right one comes along. The result is I have several ongoing, fairly long-term relationships that are basically sex and nothing more. All these gents are unavailable for reasons of geography, marital status, and/or neuroses. The problem is, even though there is no pressure for me to make any of these relationships permanent, none of these guys treats me very well. Im not talking trinkets here, either. I just dont feel warm and fuzzymore like cheap and tawdry! Is a big housecleaning the answer?

Confused in the Big City

Original Response:

Dear Con,

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YES!! A big housecleaning is the answer. And Prudie knows you will succeed because you are so cleareyed about whats wrong. It is not everyone who can be her own Greek chorus.

Turn your blue to white: Become a born-again virgin. Get your self-respect back. Only truck with men you decide are worthwhile. It will be a new beginning. How insightful you are to use the word unavailable. And how wise to want to bag relationships in which the other person is far away, married, or a filbert. The time has definitely come to say to all these chaps: Adios, yo-yo. (Translation: Farewell  youre on your own.)

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Do begin again, and Prudie predicts 1999 will be your year. Let us all know how things develop.

Prudie, resolutely

From: Dear Prudence (Jan. 9, 1999).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Confused,

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Before we dig into your question, lets talk about the part where some of your gentleman callers are not available for a relationship due to reasons of marital status. Were you doing open relationships back in 1998? If so, kudos on being an early bird. If not, well, searching for hookups among nonmonogamous people is a generally more ethical alternative to being party to cheating.

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All the spiritual people in my life (and both of my therapists) agree that we have to make room if we want change. A big house cleaning is absolutely the way to think about it. Clear out some space in your life, and your schedule. Take stock of your standards. You say these guys dont treat you very wellinsist, moving forward, on treatment that is somewhere between great and awesome.

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While youre waiting for Mr. Better Than Adequate, spend some time reconnecting with your body. Get around to any medical appointments youve been putting off, focus on your physical well-being, and take care of your own sexual desires by masturbating. Now, in the post No Scrubs era, and partly thanks to Dan Savages Dump The Mother Fucker Already, weve often got a culture that encourages moving on.Stoya

Dear Prudence,

This question is about the etiquette of having a love affair with a macroeconomist. Hes 15 years older than me and a former colleague. I have an iron-clad rule about colleagues and sex (i.e., dont do it), but now that Ive changed jobs hes made his personal interest in me pretty clear; and I like him a lot. In view of this quite relevant factand the global scarcity of men who, like him, are tall, funny, and smarter than methe age thing doesnt bother me. BUT. The problem is: I dont know if hes still married to the mother of his two college-age kids, and I dont know how to ask. I know this sounds dumb. But our earlier professional friendliness did not extend to swapping details of our private lives, although he does mention the kids. Is this some kind of guy code for wife??

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So, can you suggest a polite way to raise this, preferably using some kind of Southeast Asia currency-crisis metaphor to get the point across? (Hes up to his neck in all that stuff out there right now.)

Hesitating in Paris

Original Response:

Dear Hesitating in Paris,

Prudence is pleased that you are not put off by the fact that this man is a macroeconomist and 15 years older than you. There can be lots of life left in an old macroeconomist.

Now, how to find out if he is married: You might say to him, I understand that the IMF is committed to standing by Thailand to the end, no matter what happens. Do you think such a commitment is wise? How about such commitments between individuals, even between husbands and wives?

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You might try: I suppose you are hoping that Congress will do something about the marriage penalty in the income tax this year. Would it make much difference to you?

How about: The OECD tax-free store is having a sale on Chanel No. 5. Should I buy some for your wife?

Of course, you could just ask him.

Prudence, delightedly

From: Dear Prudence (Jan. 17, 1998).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Hesitating,

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I think your boundaries around colleagues are great, and would caution you to consider whether you might end up working with this man again in the future. Careers are long and shifts in employment tend to be frequent these days (partly because company loyalty has been in decline since your day). Would you feel comfortable taking a job working with a partner? Would you feel comfortable doing so with someone you have a sexual past but not present with? Things to consider.

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Men are no more a monolith than women, and none of us are mind readers. So youre really going to have to ask. The more direct you can besomething like Are you single?the more clear of an answer youre likely to receive. Since clear and direct communication reduces confusion, and confusion is something most of us prefer to avoid, Id categorize this as polite.Stoya

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Dear Prudence,

I have a situation. I have a good friend of the opposite sex who Ive known for three years. Although he was initially attracted to me, the feeling wasnt mutual, so we became platonic friends. He even got married recently. The thing is, weve become closerand now Im attracted to him. We havent had sex, but a frolic or two has occurred. Since Ive never thought of myself as the other woman type, we are not hanging out again until this goes away. His friendship is important to me, and I take those duties seriously. Do you think we can go back to being really good friends sans frolic? Or does my wish to be a good friend require severing the relationship? Help!!!!

Where the Hell Did This Come From?

Original Response:

Dear Where,

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It is quite likely that you are suffering from the Grass-Is-Greener Syndrome. And, oh, to know what a frolic is! The image it suggests to your steadfast adviser is of two children dancing in a meadow  though Prudie knows this cant be what you mean. And when you say the friendship is on hold until this goes away, what, exactly, is this? The wife? The marriage? The attraction? Perhaps what needs to go away is you; that is, put the kibosh on the get-togethers. The electricity is not going to diminish, because most men like to  frolic. If you are sincere about being a friend, you will save him from himself by keeping your distance. Not entirely unmarried men are seldom worth the trouble.

Prudie, definitively

From: Dear Prudence (Nov. 25, 1999).

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Advice From the Future:

Dear Where,

The first step is to figure out what happened to your self-control during these frolics. Whatever your thought process was, or whatever overwhelming feelings caused you to throw the guardrails out the window, do you think youll be able to make different choices moving forward? If the answer is yes, have a talk with your friend about whats happened between you. If youre both on the same page about not wanting to cheat, you may still be able to maintain the friendship.

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If you dont think you can make better choices in the future, or your friend wants to keep fooling around, then severing the relationship is for the best.Stoya

More Prudie From the 90s

I have known a good friend for several years now (we are both graduate students within a small department), and weve always gotten along very well. However, I have noticed that there is a great turnover in her circle of friends each year as people inevitably get dropped. To compensate, she always seems to turn to a new crowd (usually new arrivals in the department) about whom she is wild for a while, until the ardor cools.
(Photo : Unsplash/Alexander Grey)

Kyte Baby, a baby clothing brand, faces criticism and a customer boycott for refusing an employee's request to work remotely while caring for her premature baby, which has garnered half a million views by Friday evening in a TikTok video.

Hughes faced significant loss while trying to have a child of her own, as she detailed on her GoFundMe page. The journey involved extensive testing, numerous doctors' appointments, various medications, at-home injections, multiple unsuccessful IUIs, and complications during IVF.

She and her husband experienced the heartbreaking loss of three pregnancies, one of which nearly cost her life. Her sister explained on TikTok that during surgery to address the miscarriage, Hughes started hemorrhaging and almost bled out on the table, requiring blood transfusions to survive. After a near-death experience, the couple decided to adopt.

A Call Informing Them of a 22-weeks-old Baby in the NICU

The Hughes got a call in December informing them of a 22 weeks-old baby, weighing 1 pound, in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nine hours away from their Dallas home, according to the couple's GoFundMe page, which they began last year to help them pay steep adoption fees. The Hughes rushed to El Paso to be with their newborn, who was in critical condition, and informed Kyte Baby that she would require time to care for their new son, named Judah.

Kyte Baby Denying Request to Working Remotely After the Paid Maternity Leave

Kyte Baby CEO Ying Lui denied the request, explaining that "all parents, whether biological or non-biological, who had been with the company for at least six months, received two weeks of paid maternity time." Lui told USA TODAY on Friday.

Marissa Hughes, employed by Kyte Baby for seven months, pleaded with the company to reconsider, as she was nine hours away with a sick baby, who, according to the hospital, might not be released until March or April.

READ ALSO: 5 Company-Provided Benefits, Empowering Parenthood In The Workplace

Request's Denial Sets Off a Boycott Firestorm

News about Hughes spreads across the internet, leading many to pledge a boycott against Kyte Baby, expressing refusal to spend money on Kyte Baby and supporting small businesses that prioritize helping mothers instead.

Kyte Baby CEO Ying Liu's Response

Kyte Baby CEO Ying Liu issued two video apologies on Thursday. First, she acknowledged the criticism and stated, "We treat biological and non-biological parents equally." Liu expressed respect for babies, families, and the adoption community based on her personal and professional experiences, admitting oversight in not providing sufficient support to Hughes and that they would find her a position whenever she decides to return to work, as initially offered.

Negative comments poured in, with one user stating the insincerity of the apology. In a second video, Liu admitted that the first apology "wasn't sincere" and went off-script, acknowledging the terrible decision to deny Marissa's request to work remotely while staying in the NICU with her adopted baby. Liu recognized the company's insensitivity and selfishness in insisting on onsite work. She admitted to not accommodating Marissa and emphasized that the company is actively working to change policies to avoid similar situations, which will be announced by February 1.

Lui said that Kyte Baby should uphold our values as a woman-owned, family company, noting that Hughes has chosen not to return to work for the company.

RELATED ARTICLE: What Working Mothers Need to Achieve Work-Life Balance

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Its Advice Week! In On Second Thought, well revisit questions from the archives and dig into how much has changed since Slate began giving advice in 1997and how much hasnt. Read all stories here.

For todays edition, we dug through Slates archives and unearthed questions sent to Prudie from the 1990s. Weve asked todays columnists to weigh in with modern-day sensibilities.

Dear Prudence,

Granted, I am not young, but I am not a fuddy-duddy either. Are you reacting to all the blue nail polish, body piercings, spiky hair, and nose rings? Sometimes the young salespeople are so strange looking it is distracting. Am I nuts and just out of it?

Thanks,

Fussy or Normal

Original Response:

Dear Fuss,

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Prudienot young but not a fuddy-duddy, eithercouldnt agree with you more. Often feeling like a lobotomized dowager, Prudie blanches when she sees some of the young people, frequently wondering how it is possible that they think they look appealing. There is hope, though. When they grow a little older and get serious about becoming employed, the green hair and atavistic piercings disappear. Alas, we seem to be stuck with the odd-colored nail polishpurple, blue, and green being Prudies unfavorites.

Prudie, wistfully

From: Dear Prudence (Sept. 5, 1998).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Fuss,

What a letter to kick us off!

My dear Fuss: Today, you and Prudie would indeed be called fuddy-duddies by the majority of generations. While I hope that in the intervening decades, youve come to embrace colorful hair, piercings, and tattoos a bit more than at the time of your letter, I understand if youre still resistant to them. There are still many folks who struggle with these modes of expression being so common and, in some cases, so visually loud.

Its not for me to police your likes and preferences when out and about in society. But what I find inspiring about the way we more freely adorn ourselves today relates precisely to Prudies reply, in which she wonders how it is that todays young people think they look appealing. The adults I know who dye, ink, and pierce themselves do not do it to look appealing (to others, it is implied); they do it because it pleases themselves. We are amidst a cultural awakening, still gaining force, in which we are getting smarter about valuing ourselves regardless of the opinions of others. We are pushing back at dress codes that police womens bodies rather than mens behavior. We are removing appearance codes from the office and judging employees instead on the quality of their work. We are not perfect by any means, but we are a lot more inclusive of the many ways to be in the world than we were 30 years ago. Were you writing to me today, Fuss, I would encourage you to focus on that fact. Green hair is a small price to pay for a society that is moving toward making space for everyone. Allison

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Dear Prudence,

I am having an ongoing ordeal over whether my 12-year-old daughter should refer to her stepfather as Dad, Stepdad, or by his first name. Ive been remarried for six years to my present husband, and he insists that my daughter should refer to him as either Dad or Mr. Giles when addressing him. My daughter calls my husband by his first name, which infuriates him because he believes it is disrespectful. My daughter insists he doesnt deserve to be called Dad and now only makes reference to him when mentioning her stepfather to friends or relatives. Please advise about what would be the most appropriate way to handle the situation.

Mrs. Giles

Original Response:

Dear Mrs,

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Mr. Giles sounds like a real beaut. The form of address, you understand, is merely the battleground for the simmering war between them. Your daughter wont call him Dad, which he wants; and he wont permit a first-name address (which is perfectly acceptable), which is what she wants. And for whatever its worth, Prudie has never heard of anyone saying, Stepdad, please pass the salt, so forget that one. Someone, maybe a family counselor, needs to deal with the alienation the youngster feels and the hostility harbored by your husband. If you can find a way to deal with and improve their relationship, what she calls him will become a moot point. Reading between the lines, it may be that the childs biological father and your husbands own offspring-situation are part of the equation.

Prudie, worriedly

From: Dear Prudence (Dec. 3, 1999).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Mrs,

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Prudie got this one right. The fact that this man would prefer Mr. Giles to Charles tells me everything I need to know about what kind of relationship this man is trying to forge with the young womanand affection and closeness are clearly not on the menu.

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When I was a tween in the 90s, the only adults that were called by their first names were the stepparents (so this guy sounds off-base even amongst his contemporaries); but today, it seems like first names are incredibly common ways to address most adults, including ones friends parents, which would never have flown in my day. My kids are still young enough that Im addressed as So-and-Sos Mom more often than anything else, but even as they grow, Im unsure whether Mrs. Price is going to get much usage compared to Allison. It feels strange to me, but certainly nothing Id wage a battle overespecially with a new stepkid.

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I agree with Prudie and advise you, letter writer, that your husbands relationship with your daughter needs to be the focus of his attention, rather than how hes addressed. If hes not willing to put the work in to develop at least an amiable friendship with his stepdaughter, then you have some serious decisions to make. Allison

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Dear Prudence,

I cant believe that Im writing to you, but I cant get this out of my mind. My very nice sister-in-law invited us to her sons high-school graduation dinner at a nice restaurant immediately after the ceremony. We agreed to go to both events, graduation and dinner.

My question is this. We had to leave early because of the babysitter, so we got up, kissed the new graduate, said goodbye to everyone and thanked our sister-in-law. A relativenot the hostsaid, Leaving before the bill arrives? If he knew the guests were supposed to pay for dinner, we didnt. Embarrassed, I gave my father-in-law money to give to the hostess to cover our meals.

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Was I wrong to assume the dinner was given by my sister-in-law? Whats the etiquette about being invited to a restaurant to celebrate a big event? I paid this time, but what to do next time? (And yes, we gave him a very, very nice graduation present.)

Definitely Not a Freeloader in New York

Original response:

Dear Def,

Prudie is appalled, and suspects your very nice sister-in-law was raised by wolves. At the very least, if the host cant manage such a party, guests should be informed beforehand that the celebratory dinner is the gustatory equivalent of BYOB.

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As for the next time, feel free to ask if the party is a Dutch treat. If it is, and youre not feeling Dutch, decline with thanks.

Prudie, choosily

From: Dear Prudence (Oct. 10, 1998).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Def,

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Well, this one aged about as well as the green hair conundrum, in my opinion. Listen, I still have to Google, Are you supposed to tip a ____ every time a trades professional is at my house, so I definitely missed the day of school where they taught us all the unwritten rules of society. And although my social circle includes all manner of well-employed, well-compensated individuals, we still go Dutch in most outings. I can count on one hand the number of times someone of my generation paid for an entire group experience.

Nevertheless, throwing a party still has its own set of expectations, and thats what I think this letter boils down to, were it to be written today: Is this a group dinner, or is this a party? Id expect to chip in for the former, but not for the latter.

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Prudie is right that you can feel free to ask about expectations ahead of time (or enlist a trusted third party to find out for you if asking outright would be disastrous). But heres another option, Def, for the next time youre in this situation: When you get up to leave, thank the organizers and say, Let me know what we owe and Ill Venmo you. Youll know immediately by the reply (Can do! or Dont be silly!) what kind of affair youve been at. Allison

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Dear Prudence,

My friend is 35 and is now carrying the child of the man she has been with for about a year. They dont live together, they rarely go out on dates, and when they see each other it normally means one spending the night at the others place. There are times when they dont hear from each other for several days. There is nothing here that resembles commitment. The father still has not decided what his role is going to be, if any.

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In short, hes being a real jerk and it makes me damned angry to see my friend suffering and stressing out because of this caveman, given her delicate condition. What should I do?

Concerned Friend in NYC

Original Response:

Dear Con,

Mind your own business. No offense. Prudie believes that third parties in domestic affairs such as you describe are like, well, third wheels. If it will calm you any, it sounds as if this pair is practicing emotional S&M.

Prudie thinks theres a slim chance that you are your own friend, if you get my drift. If this is the case, you should 1) tell Mr. Future Dad what is expected and, if it is not forthcoming, 2) wipe the slate clean and begin to make the best life you can as a single mom.

Prudie, pamperingly

From: Dear Prudence (May 9, 1998).

Advice From the Future:

Dear Con,

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On the one hand, Prudie is right to advise you to stay out of others bedrooms, at least when it comes to judging them against your own definition of what a good relationship should look like.

That said, the entirety of this letter hinges on how the expectant mother feels. If she truly is distraught because her boyfriend looks ready to split, then the best thing you can do, letter writer, is to tell her she can do this on her own (if that is indeed her choice) but make it clear she will not be on her own, because you will be there as her village. That means helping her shop for the best cribs, taking the baby for a couple of hours so she can nap, coming over to vacuum when its all too much, adjusting your friendship routine so that it fits around her new normal, and so much more. For bonus points, encourage your mutual friends to follow suit.

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Single parents are more common these days than they were 30 years ago, I think, and fortunately, were on a path toward more professional options and social systems that can make that lifestyle more possible. But we are by NO means there yet (Ill spare readers my soapbox). The thing is, parenting cannot and should not be a solo affair. No one can do this 100 percent by themselves and still come out sane on the other end. But it is not only romantic partners who can pitch in on the cause. Speaking as a single mom, the friends and family who make an effort to be present in my childrens lives, and helpful in mine, are worth their weight in gold. There is no better way you can love her than to simply, consistently, show up for her.Allison

More Prudie From the 90s

I work in an office of some 20 people. While I have cordial but hardly warm relations with several co-workers, the only person I genuinely like is a woman who was hired about eight months ago. We have become quite friendly, verging on affectionate. I sense a mutual attraction (and I know she is available). Were both in our mid-30s. Since I both like her and find her desirable, I am considering pursuing a relationship. However, my track record isnt great
The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar have devised a multistage plan for ending the Israel-Hamas war. One problem is that neither Israel nor Hamas has agreed to it. In fact, the final stage of the planthe creation of a Palestinian stateis something that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly and emphatically said he deeply, unalterably opposes.

The diplomatic venture, first reported Sunday by the Wall Street Journal, reflects a deepening fissure between President Joe Biden and Netanyahus government as well as a desperate desireby Biden and the regions Sunni Arab nations, not just Egypt and Qatar but also Jordan, Bahrain, and most notably Saudi Arabiato resume normalized relations, with one another and with Israel, even if it means somehow working around, and imposing conditions of peace on, the combatants.

Prince Turki al-Faisal, the former Saudi ambassador to Washington, said in a recent interview, The present leadership of Hamas, of the [Palestinian Authority], and of Israel should be excluded from any participation in any future political role. They have to pay for what they have done.  All of them are failures.

True words, and its both unusual and refreshing for a Saudi leader to say anything so critical of Palestinian leaders. But its unclear how to get there from herehow to create or facilitate whole new governing leaders or parties in Gaza, the West Bank, or Israel.

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Netanyahu all but gave Biden the finger last week when he said a Palestinian state was out of the question and even that Israel must provide security across all its territory west of the Jordan River. The prime minister has registered opposition to a Palestinian state many times, but his comment came right after Bidens top foreign policy officialsSecretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivansaid, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that peace requires a two-state solution and that such a solution is feasible.

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The jab prompted Biden to phone Netanyahu for the first time in nearly a month. (The last time the two had spoken, after almost-daily contact, a frustrated Biden said, This conversation is over and hung up.*) Biden said after their latest chat that Netanyahu might agree on a two-state solution, depending on the detailsa claim that Netanyahu publicly disputed, adding a drop of spittle to the spite.

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Netanyahu is not alone in his views, though, at least for the moment. Israeli President Isaac Herzog said at Davos on Thursday that Israeli citizens are concerned right now only about their safety. If you ask an average Israeli now about his or her mental state, Herzog said, nobody in his right mind is willing now to think about what will be the solution of the peace agreements.

Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmertwho despises Netanyahusaid on a recent Times of Israel podcast that the Oct. 7 attack could have been defeated or prevented if just 200 Israeli soldiers had been on the Gazan border, where they should have been. However, even Olmert said that Israel must press on with the war until Hamas is defeated.

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There is one major wrinkle in this attitude: the Israeli hostages, 132 of whom are believe to be still alive, most of them in Hamas tunnels, where they cant be easily rescued without firefights with Hamas militiamen. A growing number of Israelis have taken to the streetsmany family members of hostages have protested outside Netanyahus housecalling on the prime minister to place the fate of the hostages above his desire for continued war, some calling on him to resign.

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Gadi Eisenkot, a member of Netanyahus war Cabinet, recently argued that pursuing the war and freeing the hostages were incompatible aims. We need to stop lying to ourselves, to show courage, and to work toward an extensive deal that will bring the hostages home, he said in an interview with Israel televisions Channel 12. Their time is running out, and every day that goes by is putting their lives in danger. (It is noteworthy that Eisenkot is a general and former chief of staff in the Israeli army, and that his son and nephew were killed in the current war.)

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One obstacle both to this demand for a hostage deal, and to the U.S.-Egypt-Qatar peace plan more broadly, is that Hamas leaders have no desire to free all the hostages. Or, rather, they have put forth their own plan, which does call for freeing the hostages and a mutual cease-fire, but only if Hamas is allowed to stay in power in Gazaa condition that the other parties reject.

The peace plan devised by the Biden administration with officials in Cairo and Doha envisions four stages over a period of 90 days. In the first phase, there will be a pause in the fighting, Hamas will release all civilian hostages, while Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, withdraw troops from Gazan towns and cities, and allow freedom of movement within Gaza.

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In the second phase, Hamas will free female soldiers held hostage and turn over bodies of those hostages who have been killed, while Israel will free more prisoners. In the third phase, Hamas will release all Israeli fighting-age men (whom they regard as soldiers), and Israel will pull some of its troops outside of Gazas borders.

Finally, in the fourth phase, there will be talks for a permanent cease-fire, normalized relations between Israel and the Sunni Arab nations, and efforts for a clear, irreversible path toward a Palestinian state, as well as an international fund to rebuild Gaza.

Biden and co. hope that the deal amounts to an offer that the Israelis cant refuse. Yes, it means accepting the principle of a Palestinian state, but it also means getting the hostages back and facing a state governed by a different Palestinian Authority that doesnt include Hamas. The alternative is that the war rages on, the hostages remain locked up, and Hamas stays in power, and more Gazan civilians die as collateral damagewhile, at the same time and because of all this, Israel loses more and more support around the globe, including in the United States.

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According to U.S. intelligence, more than 100 days into the war, Israel has killed just 20 to 30 percent of Hamas fighters. But more than 25,000 Gazans, many of them women and children, have died in the process. Many thousands more will die as Israeli soldiers try to kill or capture another 20, 30, or 50 percent of Hamas fighters, especially the terrorist groups leaders, many of whom are hiding in their vast network of tunnels. Many of the remaining hostages are being held in these tunnels as well.

Even if the war goes on for another year, Israeli officers at all levels believe there is no way they can destroy all of those tunnels. Which raises the question: What is the point of the war? And shouldnt Israel consider other avenues to security, if they are open?

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Related From Slate The Real Reasons the Middle East Is Blowing Up Right Now Read More

Of course, before Netanyahu or any other Israeli leader can take the alternative path on the table seriously, they need to get a sense of who will be in charge of this new stateand they need assurances that it wont be Hamas or something like Hamas under a different name.

And this requires Qatar, Egypt, and the other Arab neighbors to do something theyve never donenot just speak up for the Palestinian people but take some responsibility for their plight: visibly doing something to make the Palestinians aspirations for statehood come true instead of just leaving it to Israel (and blaming Israel for the lack of progress).

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The latter is beginning to happen. As Blinken said last week at Davos, were seeing a reversal, a flip from the usual pattern of Middle East politics. In the past, when the U.S. had come close to resolving the problem of Palestinian statehood, the Arab and Palestinian leaders turned out to be unprepared for the challenge. The question now, Blinken said, seems to be: Is Israeli society prepared to engage on these questions?

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The challenge is complicated, he noted, by the direct security threats that Israel has always faced and that have intensified since Oct. 7. In the past, discussions about a two-state solutionwhether or not theyve been genuinehave not coincided with a war, much less a war thats widening across the region.

Yet the widening of the waralong with the stakes it entails and the possibility of further escalationmakes it more imperative than ever that the basic, long-standing issues of the conflict finally be addressed. The relevant parties have rarely if ever been so aligned in wanting to address them. Yes, the path toward a resolution is still tangled with minefields. The first step then is to start clearing them.
Rebecca Helm despises the phrase Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

This moniker is used to describe the vast stretch of ocean from the west coast of North America to Japan that is crammed with an estimated 1.8 trillion pieces of trash, most of which are plastic.

I think its a really awful practice to name a part of the world after something bad thats happened to it, says Helm, a marine biologist at Georgetown Universitys Earth Commons Institute.

Moreover, she thinks that this term misleadingly implies that this area is a barren wasteland, when in fact there is a trove of marine life living alongside the floating plastic bottles, dirty fishing nets, and discarded Styrofoam cups. Along with the occasional shark or sea turtle passerby, this regionwhich is actually called the North Pacific Highhosts a unique array of tiny species that live at the sea surface, from electric-blue seadragons to minuscule snails that ride bubbles like rafts across the open ocean.

However, the life teeming in this area poses a complex conundrum for groups trying to clean it up.

Currently, there are a variety of companies and organizations operating devices to extract pollution from the open ocean, including the Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit that uses a 1.4-mile net-like screen connected to two ships to slowly skim the waters surface and collect plastic in the North Pacific High.

While removing ocean plastic is important, Helm says, she worries about how this technology is affecting the assemblage of marine life living at the oceans surface, which is known collectively as the neuston. She outlined her concerns about the Ocean Cleanup in a 2019 op-ed published by the Atlantic, writing that we cannot monitor this ecosystem with our current technology, and millions of animals may die and dissolve before the scale of destruction is fully understood.

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The Ocean Cleanup published a response to her piece on their website, rebutting several of her claims. However, several years later, Helm still believes that we dont understand enough about the environmental impacts of the Ocean Cleanup and other ocean plastic removal technologies on the marketand she isnt the only one.

This past November, Helm and a group of international marine experts published a commentary outlining the fallacy of these ocean cleanup devices. It came out one week ahead of the latest round of the United Nations plastics negotiations in Nairobi, where more than 175 countries gathered to discuss a global treaty to deal with the plastic problem.

The commentary further highlighted potential risks to biodiversity, mainly from bycatchthe accidental capture of marine life. But the authors also questioned removal technologies effectiveness at cleaning up plastic at a meaningful scale. For example, one study suggests that it would take 200 devices from the Ocean Cleanup, running for 130 years, to capture just 5 percent of the worlds floating plastics, which would release a significant amount of carbon emissions.

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If the bathtub is overflowing, you turn off the tap first before you start mopping the floor, says Melanie Bergmann, a biologist at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany and lead author on the commentary. If you put more and more plastics into the system, its a Sisyphean task; you will never be able to clean it all up.

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But the Ocean Cleanup has a different philosophy: Its not an either-or, says Matthias Egger, the head of environmental and social affairs at the Ocean Cleanup. We see ourselves as a temporary project. You cannot clean up indefinitely if you do not also address the source of the problem, but we need to do both.

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The organization was founded in 2013 by 16-year-old Boyan Slat, a Dutch inventor and entrepreneur, with the aim of cleaning up 90 percent of floating ocean plastic pollution by 2040. Currently, the Ocean Cleanup is only operating one plastic retrieval system, which goes on periodic six-week trips to the North Pacific. But their goal is to eventually scale up to 10 devices, powered by 20 ships. Egger says they use computational models to help predict where the highest concentrations of plastic are in this area, like a weather forecast button for plastic.

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Though its likely the most well-known device, the Ocean Cleanup isnt the only plastic removal game in town. A bevy of devices have flooded the market in recent yearsfrom floating garbage bins that filter out debris, developed by Australian company Seabin, to a water drone created by Dutch company RanMarine that skims the sea surface autonomously and chomps up plastic bits. In many ways, eliminating plastic from the ocean can improve habitat quality and benefit ocean species by reducing the risk of plastic entanglement or ingestion, which kills 100,000 marine animals each year, according to a report from Earth.Org.

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But these devices could also hurt the very ecosystems that they are trying to protect. In 2023, the Ocean Cleanups operations captured more than 335,000 pounds (152,397 kilograms) of plastic. However, from July 2021 until December 2023, the system also caught 2,866 pounds (1,300 kilograms) of incidental bycatch, including fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and barnacles, according to a report from the organization. A 2022 study performed by the University of Plymouth on a Seabin at a tidal marina in the United Kingdom found that for every four pieces of plastic the device snatched, one organism was also caught; 73 percent of the organisms that were caught were dead after two days.

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While this pales in comparison to the level of bycatch from nets used by the fishing industry, the commentarys authors state that the amount of marine life unintentionally caught by plastic removal technology is still harming ecosystems, and that the long-term impacts of these devices are still not yet entirely understood.

Before we start to roll out things that purport to be solutions, its absolutely essential that weve got clear, independent scientific evidence to guide us so that we know that those solutions are actively effective and that theyre not simply making the problem worse, says Richard Thompson, a marine researcher at the University of Plymouth and co-author on the Seabin study, as well as the recent commentary.

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In response to biodiversity risks, including the ones outlined in Thompsons report, the Seabin team recently pivoted its business model from selling the devices to users around the world to focusing operations on heavily populated cities, using Sydneys harbor in Australia as a pilot.

Here, the company runs daily servicing and collection of trash in their own units.

It turned into a huge liability because we didnt know where the Seabins were being sold, says Pete Ceglinski, the CEO and co-founder of Seabin. They started buying back Seabins in 2020, though there are still many units out there that they were unable to retrieve, Ceglinski says. Now, the companys revenue comes from corporate and government clients, which pay to help operate the machines and are able to tell their customers that they support plastic removal efforts, he adds.

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Seabin has not conducted or commissioned an environmental impact assessment for its devices, a common and problematic trend for plastic-removal technology companies, according to Bergmann. The Ocean Cleanup, on the other hand, does commission its own environmental impact assessments each time it develops a new model, conducted by marine consulting firm CSA Ocean Sciences. As the nonprofit has developed new iterations of its system, it has added measures to try to minimize bycatch, such as underwater cameras and green LED lights to increase visibility of the equipment.

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Egger co-authored a study in 2021 which found that there is a higher plastic-to-organism ratio of neuston inside the Great Pacific Garbage Patch area than outside of it. Despite these findings, the nonprofits website states that their technology will still have negligible to low impact on the neuston, a conclusion that the group says is supported by samples they collected around the system in their most recent environmental impact assessment.

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However, some scientists are skeptical that plastic-removal device companies can claim a minimal impact on neuston given how much we still dont know about these organisms. And while a single device from the Ocean Cleanup likely wont have an outsize impact on high-seas biodiversity as a whole, it could if they scale up their fleet to the size that theyve stated, Helm says.

In November 2023, a number of plastic scientists, including Bergmann and Helm, as well as representatives from the Ocean Cleanup and other plastic technology companies, attended the U.N. negotiations in Nairobi. The Ocean Cleanup is pushing to formally include language about the importance of plastic cleanups in accumulation zones like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch into the treaty, says Joost Dubois, the head of communications at the Ocean Cleanup.

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Related From Slate What Is the Stanley Cup Craze Really About? I Have a Few Ideas. Read More

At the other end of the argument, the commentary authors write that this type of technology should not be enshrined in a treaty, adding that there is no evidence that the net benefits of [plastic removal technologies] outweigh their environmental and economic impacts outside highly polluted areas.

The authors arent against plastic cleanups as a whole, extolling the importance of human-run efforts in which groups like fishers, community members, and divers pluck plastic out of the ocean to avoid harming other marine life. But do scientists think it is possible to make a better plastic removal device than what currently exists on the market? While removing waste from the ocean at a large scale is a laudable cause, doing it the right way is going to be tricky, says Zoie Diana, a biologist at the University of Toronto who studies the impact of plastics on wildlife.

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The plastic cleanup technologies are not a panacea, says Diana, who was not an author on the commentary. They deserve a careful look [and] a tailored approach to the different environment that youre looking at.

One of the gold standards, she says, lies in the Baltimore Harbor in the form of a 50-foot garbage interceptor fondly known by locals as Mr. Trash Wheel. Topped with comically large googly eyes, this semi-autonomous device gobbles up trash from the Jones Falls River before it empties into the Inner Harbor. Along with being an educational tool (and an unofficial city mascot), the device is locally monitored and consistently cleared out to avoid bycatch. There is now a whole family of trash wheels around Baltimore, including Professor Trash Wheel, which, according to its official city bio, likes women in science and dislikes the patriarchy.

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Unfortunately, its going to take more than a few wheels to clean up the millions of tons of plastic in the worlds oceans. The next U.N. plastic negotiations will take place in Ottawa, Canada, in April, and member nations have pledged to develop a treaty by the end of 2024. Even though countries are still figuring out how to slow plastic production and where they stand on plastic removal devices, the scientists and companies can agree on one thing: You should still pick up and recycle those plastic bags, bottles, and bits you spot lying on the beach or in the sea.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
The two countries trust Slovakia, write French and German ambassadors.

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2024 will bring a number of important anniversaries: We look forward to congratulating the Slovak Republic on the 20th anniversary of its accession to the European Union. On 1st of May 2004, Slovakia joined the European Union. 20 years later, benefits like integration into the internal market, which attracted so many investments to the Slovak Republic, a common currency, the receipt of very important European funds, an area of easy travelling, exchange programmes for young people like ERASMUS, along with shared values and rules are almost taken for granted  one more reason to cherish this years anniversary.

We also celebrate 20 years of the NATO membership of the Slovak Republic. In times of crisis, Russian aggression against Ukraine in our immediate neighbourhood, NATO is demonstrating solidarity and practical mutual support, for example through the NATO multinational battle group, also deployed in Slovakia.

All these positive developments have been prompted by the peaceful revolution in 1989 which we celebrate in 2024 with its 35th anniversary. We look forward to further strengthening our relations, united in the European Union and mutually protected within the North Atlantic Alliance.

On 22nd January, dem deutsch-franzosischen Tag, la journee franco-allemande, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Elysee Treaty of 1963, France and Germany recall our reconciliation and celebrate our friendship. We reconfirm that France and Germany are each others most important partners and closest allies. We are constantly working to adapt and further develop our relations. Following the Treaty of Aachen of 2019, a new Franco-German network, "Generation Europe", has been set up to engage young people for our cooperation, as well as a Franco-German Citizenship Fund supporting local initiatives to bring the two societies even closer. France and Germany have jointly launched a working group of independent experts to develop ideas for EU reforms in preparation for EU enlargement. The Franco-German governmental seminar held in October 2023 in Hamburg brought together the ministers of the two governments in an unprecedented format of two days of intense dialogue, allowing progress to be made on key issues such as the reform of the European electricity market, and asserting the bilateral coordination on energy transition and technological sovereignty, including artificial intelligence. The German-French Parliamentary Assembly, consisting of 50 deputies from each national parliament, the Assemblee Nationale and the Deutsche Bundestag, convened for its biannual meeting last December in Bonn  one of its key topics fostering French and German as foreign languages abroad.

We are tirelessly working to find common solutions in the interest of our countries and of Europe. Our cooperation serves Europe. We are working for a European Union which is more resilient, more sovereign and more capable of action. This is particularly essential in todays increasingly multi-polar world for Europe to defend its place, values and interests. The strengthening of a European common security and defence policy with our transatlantic partners is today more important than ever.

On December 14 and 15, 2023, the European heads of State and Government gathered for a European Council in Brussels made important decisions, in particular regarding the opening of EU accession negotiations with Ukraine. We stand together side-by-side with Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Moscow is not showing any sign of willingness to negotiate towards peace in good faith. On the contrary: the Ukrainian civilian population continues to be bombed daily by the Russian army. Therefore, the EU continued support to Ukraine, including militarily, is necessary for the return to peace, stability and security for all on our continent, in compliance with international law. While continuing to assist Kiev, we will keep up our efforts to ensure the broadest possible international support for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the key principles and objectives of Ukraine's Peace Formula put forward by President Zelensky.

Due to the war our energy supplies and global food security are also enormously challenged, which we only can face jointly and united. Further issues to reinforce our European capacities and capabilities include strengthening our industrial and digital sovereignty, and consolidating democracy. Our two countries trust and encourage Slovakia to continue its support and cooperation in promoting a stronger, more protective and more united Europe, based on the values of freedom and respect for the rule of law.

Despite all challenges we are looking to the future with optimism. Vive lamitie franco-allemande, es lebe die deutsch-franzosische Freundschaft!
Such outlets mask opinions as news stories.

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Robert Fico (Smer) refuses to communicate with media critical of him. Ever since becoming the Prime Minister again, he has given interviews to several television networks, but also to Infovojna (Infowar) before Christmas.

Infovojna is an Internet radio station with a website that spreads disinformation. On air, Fico thanked the alternative media for "correcting the distortions we have in the media market".

Later, Robert Kalinak (Smer) also appeared on air. The very beginning of his interview shows best why Smer politicians feel so comfortable in this media environment.

"What about Globsec?" asked Infovojna founder Norbert Lichtner. He continued, "A few want to abolish it. People don't want to pay warmongers, because the money can be used for better things".

"I think this is our answer," responded Kalinak.

For a second, Lichtner was taken aback by this answer. "I should oppose you, I could come up with some stupid thing like Mr Direr (private news TA3 anchor - Ed. note), but I'm not willing to dump on myself in front of the nation," explained Lichtner. "I see no reason to oppose you on a matter on which I agree with you," he added.

The Infovojna website monitors the news and takes over the statements of government politicians or their social media videos. In some cases it appears to be a Smer party website.

Related article

Related article Why Russia is winning the information war in Slovakia Read more

Popularity fluctuations

Just like any other disinformation media, Infovojna has seen a sharp increase in traffic in recent months.

Since these outlets are not involved in official media monitoring (IAB Monitor), their traffic can only be estimated. Sme daily used the Semrush paid toll to do this.
Slovak PM feels doomed to cooperation with his Hungarian counterpart.

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Welcome to your weekly commentary and overview of news from Slovakia. Fico airs his Ukraine-related grievances in Budapest. Pellegrini finally agrees to run. The actual president gives an extraordinary address in parliament, listing the reasons why changes to the Penal Code are bad.

If you have a suggestion on how to make this overview better, let me know at michaela.terenzani@spectator.sk.

Fico meets Orban, badmouths Ukraine

We are doomed to cooperation and, I very much believe, also to success, Robert Fico said last week in Budapest, as he stood next to a nodding Viktor Orban.

It was Ficos second official bilateral visit since he returned as prime minister in the autumn (the first visit by Slovak (and Czech) heads of state and government are traditionally exchanged between Bratislava and Prague). Orban and Fico agreed on their rejection of the proposed common migration policy of the EU, their opposition to any proposal to do away with member states veto right in the European Council, on Ukraine and in particular on the stance that the EU should take towards it, as well as on the functioning of the Visegrad Group (V4) of central European states, of which both are members.

Since Fico took over as premier of Slovakia in October, he and Orban have been viewed with concern in EU circles as a potential tandem that could complicate the blocs efforts to support Ukraine. Orban has consistently been the most anti-Ukrainian European leader since Russia invaded its (and Hungarys) neighbour almost two years ago. Fico won Slovakias parliamentary election thanks to a campaign in which, among other things, he promised to stop the flow of Slovak military aid to Ukraine. Nor was he shy about echoing and endorsing pro-Kremlin propaganda messages during his campaign  something that he continues to do so as prime minister, not least when he finds himself standing alongside fellow travellers like Orban.

"Ukraine has no military solution and the current strategy is not working," Fico told the media in Budapest.

Proud to be a bad boy

He assured Orban that he appreciates it when the Hungarian prime minister speaks up loudly at the European Council to say that the war requires a political and not a military solution  rhetoric that both prime ministers are known for, and which repeats messages spread by pro-Russian propaganda outlets.

He has indicated that he is ready to take inspiration from Orban and play the anti-establishment tune even now that he is prime minister again  i.e. at the very helm of the establishment. Orban has shown how that can be done, using Brussels as one of his principal strawmen adversaries.

By expressing a willingness to play a potentially disruptive role within the EU, Fico is following the example set by Orban, who over his 14 years in power in Hungary has shown that doing so can result in considerable political profit for comparatively little consequence.

Fico appeared to take some pride in a recent article in the magazine Politico that listed him among the dirty dozen or bad boys of the World Economic Forum held in Davos last week. He stressed that he does not respect a single obligatory opinion.

"Viktor, you are very popular among normal people in Slovakia because you fight for the national interests of your country, you promote what you promised to your voters, you speak openly about the mistakes of international institutions and you stand very clearly for the sovereignty of your own country," Fico said during a press conference with Orban.

There is some discussion within the EU about the possibility of withdrawing altogether Hungarys voting rights in the European Council, given his repeated flouting of the EUs legal norms, as well as consideration of the possible withdrawal of the rotating presidency of the EU that Hungary is due to assume this year. Fico assured Orban that he could count on him.
New era for disinformation media, trip to a Slovak Paradise gorge, and the Culture Ministry files a criminal complaint.

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Good evening. Here is the Monday, January 22 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Dangerous Bulgarian driver compared to Prague killer

A filling station demolished by a Bulgarian driver in early January 2024. (Source: Facebook/Policia - Trnavsky kraj)

The Bulgarian man who crashed a Volvo into a filling station by the D1 motorway near Cervenik, Trnava Region, in early January 2024 is seen as a religious fanatic, writes startitup.sk.

The 28-year-old shouted out "Al*h Akb*r" during police interrogations. When asked by the police why he did it, he said that "a voice in my head" told him to.

The judge likened the foreigner to the Prague shooter who killed 13 people at a Prague university in December 2023. He added that if similar attempts had been repeated, it would not have been excluded that he could have directed the vehicle into a crowd of people.

According to available information, the cause of the accident was not alcohol, drugs, or microsleep. On January 4, the Bulgarian hit fuel pumps, damaged surrounding vehicles and the petrol station. Nobody was seriously injured.

The police started a criminal prosecution over general endangerment. When searching the vehicle, police officers found and seized several items that could be related to criminal activity.

More stories from The Slovak Spectator website

Opinion: "By expressing a willingness to play a potentially disruptive role within the EU, Fico is following the example set by Orban, who over his 14 years in power in Hungary has shown that doing so can result in considerable political profit for comparatively little consequence," writes Michaela Terenzani in Last Week in Slovakia.

"By expressing a willingness to play a potentially disruptive role within the EU, Fico is following the example set by Orban, who over his 14 years in power in Hungary has shown that doing so can result in considerable political profit for comparatively little consequence," writes Michaela Terenzani in Last Week in Slovakia. Sport: Olympic champion Petra Vlhova's alpine ski season ended after a serious fall during the weekend giant slalom race in Jasna, Slovakia.

Olympic champion Petra Vlhova's alpine ski season ended after a serious fall during the weekend giant slalom race in Jasna, Slovakia. Opinion: "We are tirelessly working to find common solutions in the interest of our countries and of Europe. Our cooperation serves Europe," German Ambassador Barbara Wolf and French Ambassador Pascal Le Deunff write in their opinion on the day France and Germany are celebrating the anniversary of the signing of the Elysee Treaty of 1963.

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you.

FEATURE STORY FOR MONDAY

Disinformation media enter new era

PM Robert Fico. (Source: TASR)

Until now, disinformation media profiled themselves as an alternative, but now resemble pro-government propaganda. Many government politicians, including PM Robert Fico, do not decline an interview request from such media.

TRIP FOR THIS WEEK

Water in Hornad River Gorge likely will not freeze

Unfrozen Hornad River Gorge. (Source: Slovak Paradise National Park)

In the heart of Slovak Paradise National Park (Slovensky Raj), water in the Hornad River Gorge is defying the cold and remaining unfrozen. The last time it froze was seven years ago, and also the year before that.

"This phenomenon is irregular and unpredictable," said national park administration.

The tourist trail in the gorge is passable and cleared of fallen trees. However, it is icy. The administration recommends adjusting your behaviour and equipment accordingly.

Related: Listen to our Spectacular Slovakia podcast about the Slovak Paradise gorges.

In other news

There are so many postponed operations that they cannot be performed on time. In Slovakia, in three years, there are over 100,000 patients awaiting surgery, President of the Association for the Protection of Patients' Rights, Maria Levyova, tells the Hospodarske Noviny daily. After the pandemic, the situation is further complicated by the personnel crisis in hospitals.

President of the Association for the Protection of Patients' Rights, Maria Levyova, tells the Hospodarske Noviny daily. After the pandemic, the situation is further complicated by the personnel crisis in hospitals. The Culture Ministry has filed a criminal complaint against the petition demanding Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova's resignation, citing suspicion of unauthorised access to computer systems, sabotage, and other related offences. The petition has garnered over 150,000 signatures in a few days, criticising the minister's autocratic leadership, disregard for professional discourse, and actions conflicting with cultural and creative industry strategy. The ministry has temporarily suspended the use of its Facebook and Instagram pages. (Sme)

citing suspicion of unauthorised access to computer systems, sabotage, and other related offences. The petition has garnered over 150,000 signatures in a few days, criticising the minister's autocratic leadership, disregard for professional discourse, and actions conflicting with cultural and creative industry strategy. The ministry has temporarily suspended the use of its Facebook and Instagram pages. (Sme) Anti-government protests organised by some of the opposition parties (PS, SaS and KDH) will continue on Thursday, January 25, in Bratislava and other towns.

Drinking water in public water supply systems has been of very high quality for a long time , according to the Report on the State of the Environment of the Slovak Republic in 2022. As many as 90.27 percent of Slovaks are supplied with water from public water supply systems.

, according to the Report on the State of the Environment of the Slovak Republic in 2022. As many as 90.27 percent of Slovaks are supplied with water from public water supply systems. Customs officials discovered protected cacti in a teddy bear that arrived in Slovakia in a package from Thailand, the Financial Administration said.

The Roman waterfall in the park near the Betliar mansion, eastern Slovakia, which turns into an icefall in winter. (Source: TASR)

WEATHER FOR TUESDAY

Weather for Tuesday is forecasted to be variably cloudy. In some places, especially in the east, snowfall or snow showers are to be expected. The highest daytime temperature ranges from -1 C to 4 C. The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute is also issueing a yellow warning due to black ice. Be cautious while driving.

JANUARY 23 NAME'S DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Milos.

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Welcome to the incredible coffee shop scene in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

This is *not* the first Sprudge guide to the scene here. In 2019, Sprudge contributor Michael Light wrote an extensive guide to the then-burgeoning third wave coffee culture in Ho Chi Minh City, capturing the onset of a transformative period in the citys cafes. Since then, there has been a surge in cafes dedicated to transparency and drink quality. There have been growing pains, too, as the city has witnessed both closures of notable spots like Klasik Coffee Roasters and Drago Specialty Coffee, as well as expansions, exemplified by the growth of Bosgaurus Coffee.

In light of these changes, the time has come for an updated cafe guide to navigate the thriving coffee scene in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Consider this guide as a stepping stone, a curated selection of establishments that reflect the current pulse of the citys vibrant coffee culture. Embrace the opportunity to engage with the baristas, seeking their insights and recommendations tailored to your preferences. Notably, many cafes on this list boast their own roastery, each embracing a distinct approach to roasting. With this diversity, its likely that at least one of them aligns with your preferred style of coffee. Lets go explore!

Hummingbird

Hummingbird opened its doors in 2019, and after a brief change of locations, it has settled into its current spot. Hummingbird is led by Tran Hoa, a seasoned roaster, CQI Q Grader, and a distinguished judge at the Vietnam National Barista Competition for several years.

Tran Hoa is extremely serious about coffee quality, and that attitude extends to the design of his cafe. With the new space, the design is intentionally minimal to direct all attention to the star of the showthe coffee. He designed his coffee bar as a focal point, which stretches almost half the length of the indoor seating areas. There are also some outdoor seatings strategically positioned for a view of Hummingbirds roastery brand, Blue in Green Coffee Roasters, allowing guests to observe Tran Hoa and his apprentices roasting on the 15kg Probat.

Tran spent some time in Seoul honing his roasting craft with Pil Hoon Seu, the esteemed founder of Coffee Libre, a trailblazer in South Koreas specialty coffee scene. He also has an appreciation for Australian roasters, so his roasting style is a fusion of both. There is a focus on mouthfeel and sweetness, yet the coffee still remains delicate enough to preserve the unique nuances of each coffee origin. Its a style that is a slightly more developed compared to specialty European roasters, but a touch lighter than the majority of their American counterparts.

Hummingbirds menu is extensive, with an unwavering focus on coffee complemented by inhouse baked goods. A visit here is incomplete without taking home at least one bag of their roasted beans. The selection, though ever-evolving, consistently features origins from Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Kenya.

Grandmum Cafe

Stepping into Grandmum feels like embarking on a nostalgic journey to your childhood home. Tucked away in a small alley amidst the exhilarating chaos of Ho Chi Minh City, Grandmum Cafe stands as a serene oasis distinct from the others on this guide. The moment you enter, its as if youve come into a house of a Saigon bourgeoisie: you are greeted by a charming outdoor seating area with low tables next to a tranquil pond in the front yard. As you venture inside, the space unfolds with the grace of a classic Saigon home, complete with a piano, a turntable, art adorning the walls, and a wine-filled fridge. It wouldnt be a surprise if a passerby mistook it for a residential abode rather than a cafe.

Grandmums daily operation is almost exclusively managed by the ownerLe Dan Nha Thi, Vietnams very first AeroPress Championalong with her talented assistant barista, Luu Vi. The cafe proudly hosts a diverse selection of beans sourced from roasters around the globe, with notable mentions including lightly roasted coffee from Apollons Gold and Tim Wendelboe. Its no coincidence that Les coffee preferences lean towards the Nordic roasting stylelight, aromatic, and complexso I believe coffee from these roasters are put in the most capable hands. I always pay a visit to Grandmum every time I am in Ho Chi Minh, and I am always super happy with the quality of filter coffee I have here.

Bosgaurus Coffee  Opera House

The latest location of the famed coffee brand Bosgaurus Coffee, Opera House recently celebrated its first year in operation. This cafe stands out as the most fancy-looking cafe on this guide, boasting an aesthetic that truly fits its name. It was designed around the concept of an opera house, featuring a central bar that mimics a grand stage, where baristas perform under illuminated spotlights, lending an air of theatricality to the whole experience. Minimalism runs deep in the brands design, maintaining the signature Bosgaurus touchtransparent frameless glass walls and a flybar housing a Synesso MVP Hydra and Mahlkonig grinders. Its a cafe that truly sparkles.

Bosgaurus Coffees forte lies in cultivating close and sustainable relationships with local producers, some of whom could be deemed celebrity Arabica producers in Vietnam. These relationships grant Bosgaurus access to the most exclusive coffee lots, which occasionally appear on Bosgauruss filter menu. If you find yourself in the vicinity, a highly recommended indulgence is the Ca phe sua da, crafted with a custom-designed Phin by Bosgaurus Coffee. While the classic Ca phe sua da traditionally features Robusta, Bosgaurus Coffee takes a daring turn by using purely Vietnamese-grown Arabica for this beverage. The result is nothing short of sublimea concoction that is rich, delicately sweet, and remarkably captures the fruity and nuanced notes inherent in the coffee.

Every Half

Every Half burst onto the scene just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit Vietnam, and against all odds, it not only managed to stay strong but soared to five stores as of now. Helmed by the visionary Tran Le Minh Truc, whom I recently had the pleasure of interviewing, Every Halfs stores are truly eye-catching and inviting, and they are a harmony of modern aesthetics dancing with rustic charm; stainless steel bars elegantly mingling with pale woods, occasionally adorned with bursts of greenery that whimsically fill the spaces. Its a visual delight, a breath of fresh air compared to the sleek glass-and-metal designs of Bosgaurus Coffee. Small wonder that Every Halfs regulars mainly comprises college students and dynamic young professionals in their 20s and early 30s.

The brand wears many hats. For coffee connoisseurs, it stands as a destination for meticulously crafted, lightly roasted coffee beans, a sentiment I wholeheartedly share, even with the abundance of cafes on this list having their own roasteries. They currently roast on two Giesen roasters, a W1A for samples and a W6A for production. For the regulars, Every Half earns their loyalty through its extensive selection of signature drinks, ranging from cold brew to matcha to soda concoctions. Every visit becomes a delightful dilemma for me; the coffee purist within yearns for a simple black coffee, yet I often find myself sitting with a frothy matcha latte or a zesty carbonated cold brewor sometimes, both. These drinks linger in my memory long after I leave, and I cant help but miss the vibrant experience whenever Im back in Hanoi.

96B Cafe & Roastery

No longer an experiment! In 2019, I wrote a full review of 96B Cafe that has been published on Sprudge here. Fast forward to the summer of 2020, and the cafe underwent a complete overhaul in design, aesthetics, and branding while retaining its location. The heart and soul of the brand, however, remained unaltered.

At the core of 96B lies its inventive signature drinks, a realm that has expanded beyond coffee to include indulgences like chocolates and tea. I have noticed a trend in their drink repertoire: they will take something and either mix it with soda or heavy cream. Both pathways offer quite an experiencessoda drinks lean towards the playful side, often featuring cold brew or juice as a base, elevated with soda for a fizzy kick, accentuated by bright or floral notes from lime, lemon, or rosemary. On the other hand, heavy cream, contrary to its name, imparts a velvety texture to the beverage, often harmonized with vanilla syrup for a slight touch of liveliness.

While Liberica has recently gained global recognition, few might be aware that 96B has been using this unique coffee species since the cafes inception. Hana Choi, 96Bs visionary founder, a Korean-born and Vietnamese-raised coffee professional, always has her own way when it comes to coffee selection. She has long been an advocate for Vietnamese-grown Liberica, ensures her guests at the cafe can savor Liberica in various formsbe it through filter brewing, espresso, or by taking a bag of this exquisite coffee home.

Hoff Coffee Brewers

A foray into cafe retail by Beanhop Coffee Roastery, Hoff Coffee Brewers finds its niche on the second floor of an antiquated apartment building, nestled in the vibrant heart of District 1. The cafe, though minimalist in design, exudes a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Its an ideal getaway for people who seeking to spend a languid afternoon with a good book or a productive workspace with the added indulgence of exceptional coffee.

The staff at Hoff are more than welcoming, taking the time to walk me through their diverse range of drinks. Whats on the menu at Hoff? Following the third wave coffee tradition, you can choose from a selection of espresso-based and filter coffee options, and guests can choose to purchase bags of coffee to take home. Among Hoffs extensive offerings, I suggest trying the bac xiu with brown sugar boba, the summer breeze cold brew, or the sparkling matcha.

My favorite would be bac xiu with brown sugar boba. It emerges as a standout creation, drawing inspiration from the beloved boba tea culture in Asian countries, but with a unique twistcoffee takes center stage instead of tea. Crafted with honey-processed Robusta from Vietnam and complemented by condensed milk and a touch of fresh milk, it offers a more approachable yet no less adventurous take on the classic ca phe sua da. Its velvety texture, reminiscent of boba tea, intertwines with a delightful caramelized sweetness from the coffee. It was the best Robusta-based coffee I have had until now. If faced with the task of choosing a winner between Hoffs bac xiu and Bosgauruss ca phe sua da, I would undoubtedly be nitpicking myself.

Lac Teahouse

Followed the pattern that I established in my coffee guide for Penang, Malaysia, Id like to round off the Ho Chi Minh guide with a delightful twista tea house. At Sprudge, while our love for coffee is unparalleled, our curiosity for tea is similarly boundless. Enter Lac Teahouse, a gem that opened in the summer of 2022, bearing the name of its owner Nhuoc Laca writer and poet. Jointly managed by Nhuoc Lac and her husband Pham Duc Dung, the tea house is a manifestation of the couples shared passion for tea.

Unlike cafes in this guide, Lac Teahouse is a bit farther from the city center, but the journey is worthwhile. Just as many renowned coffee professionals didnt start their careers in coffee, one doesnt necessarily need an exhaustive tea education to open a tea house. Sometimes, the experiences and skills acquired from other industries contribute to the unique character of a brand. In this regard, Lac Teahouse did not disappoint.

The tea houses menu is meticulous, offering a curated selection of seventeen different teas during my visit. From the traditional camellia sinensis of raw oolong, black tea, puer, and green tea to tisanes, matcha, and houjicha, Lac Teahouse caters to everyones palate. During my visit, I opted for two choicesan osmanthus white tea, a classic pick, and a bud tea. You might wonder what is bud tea? In spring, tea plants produce buds that slowly open up into leaves. As buds evolve into young leaves, their chemical composition changes, notably the caffeine content and distributions of amino acids, which directly impact the teas flavor. To me, bud tea offered a more gentle, lighter aroma and flavor, with more florality and a softer mouthfeel, evoking an elegant expression.

Beyond the exquisite tea offerings, Lac Teahouse introduces quite a selection of in-house baked dessertsfrom canele to basque cheesecake, swiss roll to chiffon, the options are limitless. These small treats mirror the sophistication of their teas, boasting a soft, light, and elegant profile. I highly recommend pairing one of these delightful creations with a pot of tea for an elevated experience at Lac Teahouse.

Tung Nguyen is the founder of Citric Meets Malic and a Sprudge contributor based in Hanoi, Vietnam. Read more Tung Nguyen for Sprudge.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/afd-leader-calls-for-german-dexit-vote-to-break-from-eu-1116321159.html

AfD Leader Calls for German Dexit Vote to Break From EU

AfD Leader Calls for German Dexit Vote to Break From EU

Sputnik International

Alternative for Germany party leader Alice Weidel said in an interview published on Monday that the country should consider its own 'Dexit' referendum, mirroring the UK's exit from the EU.

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Britain was dead right to leave the European Union and Germany should consider its own Dexit, the leader of the right-wing populist party Alternative for Germany (AfD) Alice Weidel said in an article published in US media on Monday.A recent poll found that only 45% of AfD members would currently vote to leave the EU and only 10% of the general population said they would. It is worth noting that opinions can shift rapidly. In late 2014, only 36% of Britons said they would support the UK leaving the EU; less than two years later, more than half voted for Brexit.The AfD is leading the polls in five East German states and is polling second nationally at 22%. The party hopes to make gains at both the European Parliamentary elections in June and the regional elections in September.However, AfDs high polling numbers may not reflect how much power the party will have in the near term. Establishment parties, including conservative-leaning ones, have ruled out forming a coalition with the AfD, limiting its potential power.Weidel admitted that the issue will limit her partys power in the short term but believes the firewall will not last forever, pointing to the conservative establishment CDU party, which includes former chancellor Angela Merkel, as the first likely to break.Weidel admitted her party is unlikely to take control until 2029 at the earliest. It is currently polling only behind the CDU but is ahead of every other party, including Chancellor Olaf Scholzs three coalition parties.

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Korea's exports fell 1 percent on-year in the first 20 days of January due to a smaller number of working days, data showed Monday.

Outbound shipments reached $33.3 billion in the Jan. 1-20 period, compared with $33.6 billion tallied a year earlier, according to the data from the Korea Customs Service.

Imports fell 18.2 percent on-year to $35.9 billion during the period, resulting in a trade deficit of $2.6 billion.

The number of working days came to 15.5 over the period, compared with 16 tallied a year earlier. The customs agency noted that considering the daily average volume, exports moved up 2.2 percent on-year during the period.

By sector, exports of chips moved up 19.7 percent to reach $5.29 billion, with those of automobiles rising 2.6 percent to $3.47 billion.

Those of petroleum products, on the other hand, shed 0.9 percent to $2.85 billion. Outbound shipments of steel products also moved down 7.4 percent to $2.46 billion.

Exports of ships, meanwhile, shot up 89.8 percent to hit $1.92 billion, the data also showed.

By destination, exports to China, the top trading partner of Korea, edged up 0.1 percent over the period to $6.8 billion.

Those to the United States advanced 3.6 percent to reach $6.18 billion. Exports to the European Union, on the other hand, fell 9.4 percent to $3.53 billion.

In December, monthly exports advanced 5.1 percent on-year to $57.6 billion, rising for the third consecutive month. (Yonhap)
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/blood-of-donetsk-civilians-killed-yesterday-on-those-sending-weapons-to-kiev---lavrov-at-unsc-1116316908.html

Blood of Killed Donetsk Civilians on Those Sending Weapons to Kiev - Lavrov at UNSC

Blood of Killed Donetsk Civilians on Those Sending Weapons to Kiev - Lavrov at UNSC

Sputnik International

Ukrainian forces deliberately attack purely civilian targets, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov addressing the UN Security Council meeting.

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The majority of impartial experts see that the West's continued support of Kiev impedes peace, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said at the UN Security Council in New York on Monday."Today, it is completely obvious to the overwhelming majority of non-biased experts that the key factor that impedes the search for paths to a peaceful resolution of the Ukrainian crisis is the ongoing Western support of the Kiev regime," Lavrov said at a UNSC meeting.The Russian foreign minister put the blame for the recent civilian deaths in a Donetsk market on those sending weapons to Kiev.The blood of dozens of dead civilians is on the conscience of those who arm (Volodymyr) Zelenskys regime and at the same time officially declare that the Kiev authorities themselves have the right to choose targets for strikes, the minister emphasized.Conflict in Ukraine Just Business for the USLavrov compared the US position on military funding to Ukraine to a profitable business project."Mr. Blinken, the US secretary of state, focuses on the fact that continued assistance to Ukraine is a guarantee of creating new jobs in the United States. As if this is not about financing a war that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in Ukraine, but about some kind of profitable business project," Lavrov said. He recalled that a striking example of US entrepreneurial activity in Ukraine is the acquisition by the structures of businessman George Soros of black earth soils for the disposal of waste from the Western chemical industry. The Russian top diplomat highlighted that Kiev resells some Western weapons on the black market, and it is difficult to imagine that Western capitals do not know about this.In an effort to profit as much as possible from the conflict [in Ukraine], those in charge in Kiev are simply reselling some of the weapons supplied by the West on the black market, the minister said. He noted that you can find enough similar advertisements on the darknet. Its hard to imagine that this is happening without the knowledge and participation of Western businessmen, because, as they say, one hand washes the other, the Russian minister added.If Ukraine stops fighting, hundreds of thousands of its citizens will not have to die for Western geopolitical interests, he continued.Lavrov emphasized that there are no interests - and there never were - in the conflict with Russia in favor of the Ukrainian people. There are only the interests of the Anglo-Saxons, their henchmen and the criminal, rotten Kiev elite, which is tied to the West by mutual responsibility and which is afraid of being swept away the day after the end of the war."Russia Never Gave Up on Peaceful ResolutionMoscow has never given up on a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict, he reminded."We never gave up on the peaceful resolution, we are always ready to negotiate  negotiate not about how to keep the leadership of the Kiev regime in place but about overcoming the inheritance of a decade-long destructive looting of the country and violence against the people, removing the reasons for the tragic Ukrainian situation," Lavrov said.The minister added that the plans of both Kiev and its "masters" have nothing to do with peace.So-Called Zelensky Peace Formula a Path to NowhereThe so-called Zelensky peace formula and other similar formulas are a path to nowhere, and the sooner the US and EU realize this, the better, Lavrov said. The "peace formula", developed and promoted by Kiev, requires the restoration of the territorial integrity of Ukraine, the provision of Euro-Atlantic security guarantees and the creation of a special tribunal to investigate "war crimes" attributed to Russia. Zelenskys peace formula is considered in Moscow to be completely divorced from reality. Moscow has repeatedly indicated that it is ready for negotiations, but Kiev has introduced a ban on them at the legislative level. The West calls on Russia for negotiations, for which Moscow shows readiness, but at the same time the West ignores Kievs constant refusals to engage in dialogue. Earlier, the Kremlin stated that there are currently no prerequisites for the situation in Ukraine to transition to a peaceful direction; the absolute priority for Russia is to achieve the goals of the special operation; at the moment this is only possible through military means. As the Kremlin stated, the situation in Ukraine can move on to a peaceful course, provided that the de facto situation and new realities are taken into account; all Moscows demands are well known, Lavrov concluded.US Turns Blind Eye to the Death of American Journalist in Ukrainian PrisonWestern officials including those in the United States lack the courage to comment on the death of US citizen Gonzalo Lira. The State Department in January confirmed to Sputnik that Lira had died in a Ukrainian prison following a lengthy detention in Ukraine.A dual citizen of the United States and Chile, blogger Gonzalo Lira was arrested by the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) on May 5 on charges of justifying Russia's military operation in Ukraine and allegedly disseminating pro-Russian propaganda. He was released in July and later arrested again after he attempted to leave Ukraine by crossing the border with Hungary on a motorcycle.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/western-leaders-disregard-zelenskys-murderous-attack-on-donetsk-1116315502.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231230/ukraine-thinks-like-a-warmonger---russian-foreign-ministry-1115886370.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240116/ukraine-bungled-counteroffensive-faces-loss-of-statehood-if-things-continue-in-this-vein-putin-1116203499.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/distanced-from-people-moscow-on-paris-denial-of-french-mercs-in-ukrainian-conflict-1116318428.html

Distanced From People: Moscow on Paris' Denial of French Mercs in Ukrainian Conflict

Distanced From People: Moscow on Paris' Denial of French Mercs in Ukrainian Conflict

Sputnik International

Earlier Russian Armed Forces destroyed with a precision strike a building in Kharkov that served as a deployment point for mercenaries from France and other countries. Over 60 were decimated and roughly 20 were wounded.

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Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has criticized French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne for denying the presence of French mercenaries in Ukraine, accusing him of ignoring the truth and losing touch with the French populace. Earlier, the French Foreign Ministry said that information about a Russian strike on French hired guns in Kharkov is a clumsy Russian manipulation," adding that Paris is not using mercenaries at all.She added that despite the fact that there was a list of French citizens who fought as mercenaries against Russia circulating in the media, Paris said that these people do not exist. [The] French Foreign Ministry will once again say it does not want to be involved in the fate of French people, wont it," she asked rhetorically.Earlier, Sputnik also found out that over 300 mercenaries from France have arrived in the special military operation zone to fight against Russia. As of January, only 50 of them remain there, the rest being decimated or have fled.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/sputnik-obtains-list-of-french-mercs-present-in-kharkov-during-russian-strike-1116309613.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/gaza-hostage-talks-deadlocked-as-israel-rejects-hamas-demands-for-ceasefire---reports-1116311493.html

Gaza Hostage Talks Deadlocked as Israel Rejects Hamas' Demands for Ceasefire - Reports

Gaza Hostage Talks Deadlocked as Israel Rejects Hamas' Demands for Ceasefire - Reports

Sputnik International

The talks on the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip have reached a stalemate as Israel rejects Hamas' demand for a constant ceasefire, NBC News reported on Monday, citing sources.

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Israel's position led to an impasse despite the parties to the conflict already agreeing on some mechanisms for the possible hostage release, the report said. The preliminary agreement included a month-long ceasefire and the gradual release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, the broadcaster reported. 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 25,100 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.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240120/thousands-rally-across-israel-to-demand-deal-on-hostage-release-with-hamas-1116290512.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/houthis-attack-us-military-cargo-ship-in-gulf-of-aden---spokesman-1116319944.html

Houthis Attack US Military Cargo Ship in Gulf of Aden - Spokesman

Houthis Attack US Military Cargo Ship in Gulf of Aden - Spokesman

Sputnik International

Yemen's Ansar Allah movement, also known as the Houthis, attacked n a US military cargo ship in the Gulf of Aden on Monday, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said.

2024-01-22T18:26+0000

2024-01-22T18:26+0000

2024-01-22T18:26+0000

world

red sea crisis

middle east

yemen

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houthis

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"The naval forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out a military operation targeting an American military cargo ship (OCEAN JAZZ) in the Gulf of Aden, using an appropriate naval missiles," Saree wrote on X (former Twitter).Back in November, 2023, the Houthis vowed to attack any Israel-linked ships until Tel Aviv halts the invasion of the Gaza strip.In January, the US and the 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, characterizing the latter as another example of the Anglo-Saxons distortion of UN Security Council resolutions and complete disregard for international law.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/eu-top-diplomats-agree-in-principle-on-red-sea-maritime-security-operations---borrell-1116319771.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/hungary-to-not-participate-in-financing-arms-supplies-to-ukraine-from-epf-1116314974.html

Hungary to Not Participate in Financing Arms Supplies to Ukraine From EPF

Hungary to Not Participate in Financing Arms Supplies to Ukraine From EPF

Sputnik International

Hungary will not participate in financing arms supplies to Ukraine from the European Peace Facility (EPF), but cannot interfere with other countries, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Monday.

2024-01-22T13:12+0000

2024-01-22T13:12+0000

2024-01-22T14:14+0000

world

hungary

ukrainian crisis

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Earlier in the day, The Wall Street Journal reported that the European External Action Service (EEAS) is developing a new plan to provide financial assistance to Ukraine that will allow bloc members to override Hungary's veto on the European Unions mid-term financial assistance to Ukraine worth 50 billion euros ($55 billion). "Hungary has not sent weapons before and will not send weapons after this. And we are not ready to participate in any decision or process that will lead to an increase in arms supplies to Ukraine," Szijjarto told the M1 broadcaster, adding that Budapest "cannot and does not want to prevent others from sending weapons on the basis of a national decision."Since the beginning of the conflict, Hungary has consistently opposed arms supplies to Ukraine with Hungarian parliament even issuing a decree prohibiting arms supplies to Ukraine from Hungarian territory. Hungary believes that arms supplies to Kiev only prolong and fuel the conflict.Speaking about sanctions against Russia, Szijjarto said that there were proposals to include ban on export of equipment that could be used in military industry to Russia during the recent EU foreign affairs council, but all these proposals are made just to make the union "look busy"."As for the outline of the 13th package of sanctions,... some EU countries want to look busy. In my opinion, this is the main guiding principle. Of course, there were proposals to add new areas, new people to the [sanctions] list, and to ban the export of equipment and parts that can be used in the military industry. I don't even know what's left after the previous 12 packages of sanctions," Szijjarto told Hungarian reporters.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240116/hungary-offers-ukraine-funding-plan-that-avoids-straining-eu-budget-or-joint-loans--1116201886.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/israel-rejects-hamas-offer-to-end-fighting-in-exchange-for-hostages-release-1116306685.html

Israel Rejects Hamas Offer to End Fighting in Exchange for Hostages Release

Israel Rejects Hamas Offer to End Fighting in Exchange for Hostages Release

Sputnik International

Israel rejects the demands of Palestinian movement Hamas for a cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip in exchange for the return of hostages taken by the movement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday.

2024-01-22T04:11+0000

2024-01-22T04:11+0000

2024-01-22T05:04+0000

world

israeli-palestinian conflict

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"We brought home so far 110 hostages, and we are committed to bringing them all back. I am working on this around the clock. But let it be clear: I reject outright the terms of surrender of the Hamas monsters  Hamas is demanding the end of the war, the exit of our forces from Gaza," Netanyahu was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel newspaper. EU Seeks Tools to Exercise Pressure on Israel, Push for Two-State Solution The European Union will discuss ways to persuade Israel into a two-state solution to the Gaza crisis on the summit of foreign ministers of the international organization, the Financial Times reported, citing internal documents. Brussels is going to urge the member states to impose consequences on Israel if the latter continues to oppose the establishment of Palestinian statehood, the report added. The EU could exercise economic pressure on Israel  modest compared to US influence on Tel-Aviv yet nevertheless significant, using agreements about trade and investment benefits, according to the report. There are incentives and disincentives for Israel, one of sources in Brussels stressed, referring to the above-mentioned agreements. Another unnamed official admitted that It is hard to impose on Netanyahu, adding that he may not be around forever.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 25,100 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.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/us-calls-on-israel-to-focus-on-eliminating-hamas-leaders---white-house-1116306403.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/monstrous-act-of-terrorism-moscow-strongly-condemns-kievs-deadly-attack-on-donetsk-1116310002.html

Monstrous Act of Terrorism: Moscow Strongly Condemns Kiev's Deadly Attack on Donetsk

Monstrous Act of Terrorism: Moscow Strongly Condemns Kiev's Deadly Attack on Donetsk

Sputnik International

Russia strongly condemns the deadly attack against civilians launched by Ukraine in the city of Donetsk on January 21, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.

2024-01-22T10:11+0000

2024-01-22T10:11+0000

2024-01-22T10:32+0000

russia

dmitry peskov

moscow

kremlin

donetsk

russia

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At least 27 civilians died and 20 others were injured, including two children, in the strike at the market on Sunday morning, Donetsk People's Republic leader Denis Pushilin said. "We strongly condemn this, and naturally the special military operation will continue in order to protect our people from this danger," Peskov told reporters, adding that the attack was "monstrous act of terrorism, as weapons are used indiscriminately."The Russian permamnent mission to the UN plans to address the deadly Donetsk shelling at an upcoming meeting of the Security Council. The meeting will be attended by the Russian foreign minister.Commenting on the recent statement of Donald Trump, Peskov told journalists that Russian diplomats had no contacts with the former US president on the settlement of the situation in Ukraine."No, we do not have an understanding of how this can be feasible. There have been no contacts in this regard," Peskov said, answering the question whether the Kremlin has an understanding of how Trump intends to achieve peace in Ukraine and whether there have been any contacts with Russian diplomats in this regard.Following his victory in the Iowa Republican Caucus, the 45th POTUS pledged to swiftly resolve conflict in Ukraine should he be re-elected. In his speech on January 16, Trump claimed familiarity with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, expressing confidence in his ability to quickly mediate a solution to the conflict. This statement echoed Trump's earlier comments to CNN's Kaitlan Collins, where he would resolve the conflict within 24 hours.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/donetsk-market-massacre-a-locals-account-1116304344.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/over-300-french-mercs-arrived-in-ukraine-since-start-of-russias-special-military-op---source-1116316283.html

Over 300 French Mercs Arrived in Ukraine Since Start of Russia's Special Military Op - Source

Over 300 French Mercs Arrived in Ukraine Since Start of Russia's Special Military Op - Source

Sputnik International

As of January, a total of 50 French mercenaries remain in the military operation zone, a source told Sputnik. 22.01.2024, Sputnik International

2024-01-22T14:18+0000

2024-01-22T14:18+0000

2024-01-22T14:43+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

france

ukraine

russia

mercenaries

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Since the beginning of the special military operation, over 300 French mercenaries have arrived in Ukraine to participate in hostilities, an informed source told Sputnik. During the fighting, about 130 people were killed, up to 170 people left Ukrainian territory. As of January of this year, there were 50 militants from France in the Northern Military District zone, the source added. The source indicated that foreign mercenaries are part of the International Legion of Defense of Ukraine (ILOU).The Russian Defense Ministry said last week that a strike at a building in Kharkov the night before killed 60 mercenaries, most of them of French origin. The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned French ambassador Pierre Levy to tell him that the French government alone was to blame for the death of its compatriots because it condoned the recruitment of fighters by Ukraine.French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu argued that the government could not stop the French from fighting in Ukraine because they were not part of the national armed forces. He also accused Russia of overstating the role of French citizens in the conflict.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/sputnik-obtains-list-of-french-mercs-present-in-kharkov-during-russian-strike-1116309613.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/palestinian-american-teenager-killed-in-west-bank-1116305391.html

Palestinian-American Teenager Killed in West Bank

Palestinian-American Teenager Killed in West Bank

Sputnik International

Tawfiq Ajaq, 17, and his four siblings were brought to last year so they could reconnect with their Palestinian heritage, according to his family members.

2024-01-22T00:28+0000

2024-01-22T00:28+0000

2024-01-22T02:45+0000

world

john kirby

palestinians

west bank

israel

un office for the coordination of humanitarian affairs (ocha)

the united nations (un)

middle east

israel-gaza conflict

israel defense forces (idf)

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A teenage Palestinian-American with US citizenship was killed, reportedly by either Israeli troops or settlers in the occupied West Bank on Friday.Tawfiq Ajaq, 17, was shot twice before succumbing to his injuries. He is one of at least 358 people killed by Israeli forces or settlers in the West Bank since October 7, according to the UN. The killing comes amid Israels war on Gaza, which has killed more than 25,000 Palestinians, the majority of whom were women or children.A funeral was held in al-Mazraa Asharqiya village, where Tawfiq and his four siblings were brought to last year so they could reconnect with their Palestinian heritage, according to his family members.Another vigil was held at Masjid Omar mosque in New Orleans. It was standing room only, according to local media. Tawfiq was born and raised in Gretna, Louisiana.Hafez Ajaq implored people to travel to the West Bank and see the conditions Palestinians live under for themselves.Another relative, Tawfiqs uncle, told media outlets that he arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting. He said Israeli forces temporarily detained him and other Palestinians. He eventually was able to help load Tawfiq into an ambulance where he died, the uncle said.The US State Department issued a statement to US media on Saturday, confirming the US citizens death.On Friday, national security spokesperson John Kirby said during a White House briefing that the US was trying to get more information. We dont have perfect context about exactly what happened, but were seriously concerned about it.The circumstances leading up to Tawfiqs killing, including who fired the shots, remain unclear.Israel has not claimed responsibility for the killing. The police department did admit that an incident was reported on Friday about a firearm discharge, ostensibly involving an off-duty law enforcement officer, a soldier and a civilian. They did not specify who fired the shot but said it was targeting people purportedly engaged in rock-throwing activities.According to OCHA figures, 358 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israelis since October 7, 348 of them by Israeli military or police forces. Eight were killed by Israeli settlers and two were killed by either Israeli forces or settlers.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/death-toll-from-israeli-strikes-on-gaza-strip-tops-25000-1116296115.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/russia-indignant-about-osces-lack-of-reaction-to-ukraines-attack-on-donetsk---mission-1116319549.html

Russia Indignant About OSCE's Lack of Reaction to Ukraine's Attack on Donetsk - Mission

Russia Indignant About OSCE's Lack of Reaction to Ukraine's Attack on Donetsk - Mission

Sputnik International

Russia is indignant at the lack of reaction from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to the deadly strikes carried out by Ukraine on Donetsk, Russias mission to the OSCE said on Monday.

2024-01-22T18:09+0000

2024-01-22T18:09+0000

2024-01-22T18:11+0000

russia

volodymyr zelensky

russia

ukraine

donetsk

osce

the international committee of the red cross

amnesty international

european parliament

european union (eu)

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On Sunday, Ukraine fired 152 mm and 155 mm caliber shells at a market in a bustling district of Donetsk, leaving at least 28 dead and over 20 more injured. The mission decried the fact that the OSCE had turned a blind eye to all prior Ukrainian attacks on Russian cities, which, it said, amounted to the organization aligning itself with the actions of the Ukrainian military. Russia's Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights said its head, Valery Fadeyev, reached out to various international organizations and rights groups with a call to respond to the Ukrainian military's attack on a civilian neighborhood it knew contained no military targets. The letters were sent to OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Kairat Abdrakhmanov, the International Committee of the Red Cross, international human rights organization Amnesty International, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/western-leaders-disregard-zelenskys-murderous-attack-on-donetsk-1116315502.html

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donetsk shelling, massacre in donetsk, ukraine shelling donetsk, kiev shelling donetsk, what's happening in donetsk, donetsk people's republic, dpr
By Lee Kyung-min

NH Investment & Securities has begun the process of listing three companies in the first quarter, in a sustained outperformance of its market peers over the past bullish year, market watchers said Monday.

Also explaining its strong initial public offering (IPO) records are nine NH-underwritten companies awaiting approval for a preliminary listing review this year. They were among 29 cleared for preliminary approval last year.

The securities subsidiary of NH NongHyup Financial Group was the top-grossing IPO underwriter last year. Data from the Korea Exchange showed that the NH subsidiary oversaw the listing of 12 companies, raising the IPO fund total to 1.36 trillion won ($1.28 billion). The figure for Mirae Asset Securities came to 1.28 trillion won, followed by Korea Investment & Securities at 859.8 billion won.

Mirae Asset and Korea Investment each have only one company seeking an IPO in the January-March period.

The NH subsidiary will list the three companies on the Kosdaq, the country's tech-heavy bourse, in the first quarter. They are HB Investment, a venture capital firm, Kweather, a weather data platform operator, and Osang Healthcare, a medical equipment manufacturer.

The two-day subscription for HB Investment was completed Jan. 17, whereas Kweather and Osang Healthcare will proceed with the same two-day process from Feb.13 to 14th and Feb. 26 to 27, respectively.

Applications will begin in April for preliminary review for listing.

The NH subsidiary will submit applications on behalf of Lumir, an aerospace startup, and Tentech, a high-frequency beauty device manufacturer.

Angel Robotics, a wearable robot manufacturer will proceed with its IPO, after submitting a securities report. It had won approval for preliminary listing on Jan. 11.

The month of January only has Kosdaq listings, but the following month will see IPOs on the main bourse KOSPI.

Most at stake is which of the five local brokerages will be able to underwrite the IPO for Viva Republica, the operator of Toss, with an estimated corporate value of at least 15 trillion won. Some say the estimate could go as high as 20 trillion won.

Viva Republica recently held a competitive presentation attended by Korea Investment & Securities, Mirae Asset Securities, Samsung Securities, KB Securities and NH Investment & Securities. No invites were sent out to foreign securities firms.

The IPO craze can be, some market watchers say, blunted by the recent poor performance of the KOSPI.

The main bourse has dipped below the 2,500-point mark on Jan. 16, and has yet to snap out of the weeks-long weak performance.

The IPO plans can be altogether postponed since no companies are in a hurry to make rash decisions at the expense of undervaluation.

The major companies will determine the timeline of IPOs based on both the stock market sentiment and conditions in the first quarter, Eugene Investment & Securities researcher Park Jong-sun said.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/russian-fm-lavrov-arrives-in-new-york-will-participate-in-unsc-meetings-1116306041.html

Lavrov Arrives in New York to Participate in UNSC Meetings

Lavrov Arrives in New York to Participate in UNSC Meetings

Sputnik International

Sergey Lavrov, Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs, has arrived in New York, where he will take part in the events organised by the UN Security Council, Sputnik reports.

2024-01-22T02:25+0000

2024-01-22T02:25+0000

2024-01-22T06:21+0000

russia

sergey lavrov

sergey ryabkov

new york

the united nations (un)

un security council (unsc)

world

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The minister's visit to the UN is expected to last from 22 to 24 January. He will take part in the quarterly open debates of the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian issue, as well as in the Security Council meeting on the Ukrainian issue initiated by Russia.Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told reporters earlier that Lavrov had no planned contacts with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.Lavrov last visited New York in September 2023 to attend the UN General Assembly High-level Week.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240118/lavrov-concludes-key-directions-of-russian-diplomacy-in-2023-1116242812.html

russia

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Sergey Lavrov arrives in New York Sputnik International Sergey Lavrov, Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs, has arrived in New York 2024-01-22T02:25+0000 true PT0M32S

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/sputnik-obtains-list-of-french-mercs-present-in-kharkov-during-russian-strike-1116309613.html

Sputnik Obtains List of French Mercs Who Were Allegedly Present in Kharkov During Russian Strike

Sputnik Obtains List of French Mercs Who Were Allegedly Present in Kharkov During Russian Strike

Sputnik International

A partial list of the French mercenaries who were in Kharkov during the Russian attack on their location was provided to Sputnik by French volunteers from the SOS Donbass organization, who communicate with compatriots situated on the territories controlled by the Kiev regime.

2024-01-22T10:40+0000

2024-01-22T10:40+0000

2024-01-23T14:08+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

europe

kharkov

ukraine

donbass

ministry of defense

mercenaries

russia

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A partial list of the French mercenaries who allegedly were in Kharkov during the Russian attack on their location was provided to Sputnik by French volunteers from the SOS Donbass organization, who communicate with compatriots situated on the territories controlled by the Kiev regime.This is an incomplete list of French mercenaries in Ukraine (who were in Kharkov during the strike by the Russian Armed Forces - ed. note). The most important information - alive or dead, military rank, and so on - will be distributed later, as well as other names," said the head of SOS Donbass, Anna Novikova, who holds Russian and French citizenship.The age of the French nationals who allegedly took part in the hostilities in Ukraine ranged from 24 to 49.There are 13 names in total:As soon as there are additional details about these mercenaries who are already on the list, about other mercenaries, we will definitely share it [information], Novikova said.On January 17, the Ministry of Defense reported that owing to a surgical strike on a temporary deployment point in Kharkov for foreign fighters, the Russian military had eliminated the bulk of those there who turned out to be French mercenaries. The agency noted that over 60 militants were killed.The French Foreign Ministry, despite plenty of evidence of the presence of French mercenaries in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, tried to disavow any knowledge of its citizens serving in Ukrainian units, calling the information about the elimination of dozens of French mercenaries in Kharkov a gross manipulation by the Russians.The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned the French ambassador to inform him that the blame for the death of these French citizens in Ukraine lies with Paris. The State Duma, according to its speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, will consider an appeal to the French parliament at its next meeting to find out whether French legislators are aware that someone, violating the norms of the republics law prohibiting mercenaries, is sending militants to Ukraine.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240119/fact-check-are-there-french-mercenaries-in-ukraine-1116272958.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231005/exposed-french-spy-mingled-with-foreign-mercenaries-in-ukraine-two-years-before-conflict-1113728946.html

kharkov

ukraine

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/two-police-officers-face-charges-over-deadly-itaewon-crowd-crush---reports-1116315801.html

Two Police Officers Face Charges Over Deadly Itaewon Crowd Crush - Reports

Two Police Officers Face Charges Over Deadly Itaewon Crowd Crush - Reports

Sputnik International

Two police officers have been charged over their bungled response to a deadly Halloween stampede in Seoul's district of Itaewon in 2022, the Yonhap news agency reported on Monday, citing officials.

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The two officers were on duty at Itaewon's precinct station on the day of the tragedy. The Seoul Western District Prosecutors' Office indicted them for professional negligence causing death. There were 11 emergency calls requesting police assistance in the final hours of the accident, but the officers failed to respond to them properly, the Yonhap reported. Apart from that, one of the officers was reportedly charged with making a false entry in the police intranet about visiting the scene. They were the last government officials to face charges with the deadly stampede, among 23 people handed over to prosecutors by a special police investigation team in January 2023, the news agency reported. The deadly crowd crush occurred on October 29, 2022 in the narrow alleyways of the popular nightlife district of Itaewon, as thousands gathered to celebrate the first post-COVID restriction-free Halloween festival.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/us-calls-on-israel-to-focus-on-eliminating-hamas-leaders---white-house-1116306403.html

US Calls on Israel to Focus on Eliminating Hamas Leaders - White House

US Calls on Israel to Focus on Eliminating Hamas Leaders - White House

Sputnik International

The US is seeking from Israel a transition from a wider ground operation in the Gaza Strip to targeted attacks on the leaders of the Hamas movement, Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer said on Sunday.

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"We have stood up for Israel's right to take defensive actions against Hamas so that this threat cannot be perpetrated 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. We have seen in recent days and weeks the beginning of a shift in a phase of the conflict that we have been calling for, where we would like Israel to focus more on high-value targets, on Hamas leadership, and we have seen them start to do that," Finer told the ABC News broadcaster. Washington also urged Israel to expand humanitarian assistance to the population of the Gaza Strip, Finer said, adding that the Jewish state made "small but consequential steps" in this direction "but they are also not enough."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 25,100 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.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240109/israels-gaza-war-shifts-to-targeted-phase-of-surgical-missions-against-hamas-1116069960.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/us-military-calls-off-search-for-navy-seals-lost-during-seizure-of-ship-in-red-sea-1116306161.html

US Military Calls Off Search for Navy SEALs Lost During Seizure of Ship in Red Sea

US Military Calls Off Search for Navy SEALs Lost During Seizure of Ship in Red Sea

Sputnik International

The two US Navy SEALs who were lost in the Red Sea while attempting to board a ship allegedly carrying weapons for Houthi rebels are now presumed dead.

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The US military has called off the search for two Navy SEALs who were lost in the Arabian Sea after an unsuccessful 10-day search and rescue mission. The SEALs are now considered deceased, according to the US military.In a statement, US Central Command announced that the mission, now considered a recovery mission, will continue. The names of the presumed deceased sailors have not been released as the notification process for their families has not yet been completed.Spain and Japan assisted in the rescue mission. Along with various other US agencies, the three nations searched 21,000 square miles but to no avail.According to the US military, on January 11, the SEALs were boarding an unflagged ship that was allegedly carrying illegal Iranian-made weapons to Houthi forces in Yemen. One of the SEALs fell into the sea and another went in after him. Both were lost to the high seas.The Houthis claim they only target ships connected to Israel, the US and the UK, though Israeli media outlets have reported that some ships had no apparent connection to Israel. Some major shipping companies announced that they will cease all shipping in the area.The Houthi actions have resulted in a significant reduction of commercial trade; trade volumes are down 40% in the Suez Canal since the attacks began and Israels Port of Eilat, Israels toehold in the Red Sea, has seen an 85% reduction in shipping activity.According to the US military, the seized weapons included components of cruise and ballistic missiles. It was the latest in a series of seizures by UK and US forces in the area.On Friday, Houthi forces claimed an attack on another American shipping vessel in the Gulf of Aden. The US military said the missiles missed the target and there was no damage to the ship.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240112/biden-in-letter-to-congress-explains-his-decision-to-strike-yemens-houthis-1116136962.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/uk-to-upgrade-sea-viper-missile-system-for-over-510mln-1116295327.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240122/watch-russian-troops-smash-ukrainian-stronghold-during-liberation-of-veseloye-1116316072.html

Watch Russian Troops Smash Ukrainian Stronghold During Liberation of Veseloye

Watch Russian Troops Smash Ukrainian Stronghold During Liberation of Veseloye

Sputnik International

Earlier in January, Russian Ministry of Defense reported that settlement of Veseloye in Donestk was liberated.

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Russias Ministry of Defense published footage that shows airborne troops storming Ukrainian fortified positions as part of the liberation of Veseloye. Initially, artillery units suppressed enemy fire positions and decimated a command post. Artillery fire was followed by an airstrike on the Ukrainian positions, with the objective of demoralizing the adversary with overwhelming might.After that, airborne troops entered the scene, covered by armored vehicles and supported by FPV-drones, and stormed the Ukrainian positions. The enemy fled, leaving the dead and wounded behind," the MoD said in a statement, adding that some Ukrainian servicemen chose to surrender.

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ALLIANCE  The search for a police chief in Alliance continues, according to information released by City Manager Seth Sorensen last week.

In a release issued Friday, Jan. 19, Sorensen said that the City of Alliance recently completed interviews with three candidates for the position of Chief of Police but "was unable to come to mutually agreeable terms with the candidates. We thank those who dedicated their time and talents during the process thus far."

The City of Alliance had previously released that it's candidates were Kirk Felker, Alliance Police lieutenant; Terry Horner, a captain with the Holt County, Missouri, Sheriff Department; and Thomas Rhoades, a retired police chief from the Parkview Health System in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Sorensen described the selection process as "very thorough" and that the city "lead the Alliance Police Department and to serve the community effectively. He said that the search will continue with the help of a consulting firm, Government Professional Solutions recruiting firm.

Felker has been serving as interim police chief since the previous chief, Phil Lukens, stepped down in September.
The Scottsbluff Police Department honored the departments new captain and leaders, as well as new officers, during a pinning ceremony Friday, Jan. 19.

In beginning the ceremony, which involved the pinning of badges on officers uniforms, Scottsbluff Police Chief Kevin Spencer noted that the department doesnt often host pinning ceremonies and it had been some time since officers had gathered for one.

We dont get to do this very often, he said.

During Fridays ceremonies, the departments newest support services captain, Krissa Brass, was among those pinned. As support services captain, Brass will oversee investigations, the school resource officer program and the records department.

Brass has been with the Scottsbluff Police Department since 2013, though she has been a certified officer since 2012. Prior to joining the Scottsbluff Police Department, Brass served on the Kimball Police Department.

Brass said she is excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve among the departments leadership.

We have a young, eager department, which can come with its challenges, but can also be very positive.

Among those receiving promotions were two officers that Brass served alongside on her first team on the department under Sgt. Cody Enlow  Royce Massie and Drew Roalkvan.

Massie was promoted from a corporal position to sergeant and Roalkvan steps up from patrol officer to corporal. Massie has been with the department for seven years and Roalkvan has been with the department for five years.

I have had a front row seat to serving among these up and coming officers, Brass said of Massie and Roalkvan. The future of the Scottsbluff Police Department is very bright.

The departments newest officers, Reina Munoz and Stefan Yocum, were welcomed and received their badges during the ceremony.

The two officers were already certified when they joined the department, having both been members of the Alliance Police Department. Earlier this year, the Scottsbluff Police Department revamped its lateral entry program, offering incentives to officers who have already gone through the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Academy and received their certification. Recruiting officers who are already certified allows the department to get officers out on patrol quicker, and on their own after completing a field training program.

We really appreciate you guys being her and hitting the ground running, Spencer said. Theyre both off on their own and doing well. I hear good things.

Spencer noted that Yocum, who served as a sergeant on the Alliance force, is the departments newest member on its Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

Like many police departments within the state and the nation, the police department has struggled to fill positions. The two officers joined at a time when the department was down quite a few positions, Spencer said, saying staffing levels were getting fairly concerning.

We still have work to do, Spencer said, saying the department still had positions to fill.

The department is fully staffed at 33 officers, with 29 of those positions currently filled. Spencer said he also has the ability to have some overhiring to assure staffing levels, so he is hoping to see more applicants in coming months to bring the department to full force.

Its a great agency and a great place to work, he said.

Also on Friday, Spencer thanked record services technician Kim Ott for her service. She retired after nearly 16 years at the department.

We appreciate everything you have done for us, he said.
Three helicopters landed at the American base in the Ghwayran neighbourhood, south of Hassakeh, staying for only a quarter of an hour, Athr Press says.

Three helicopters landed at the American base in the Ghwayran neighbourhood, south of Hassakeh, staying for only a quarter of an hour.

According to a source for Athr Press in the Ghwayran neighbourhood, three American helicopters landed at 4:45 am and departed at five oclock. One of these helicopters was designated for transporting soldiers, while the other two were Apache helicopters, heading west of the governorate.

The source suggested that the helicopters proceeded to the Jabal Abdul Aziz area, approximately 40 km southwest of Hasakehs center, specifically to a location called al-Saraqa. This area falls within the Jabal Abdul Aziz range and hosts a training center for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supervised by U.S. forces.

The source noted that the troop carrier was escorted by Apache helicopters, indicating a likelihood that it transported officers and soldiers from the U.S. forces.

U.S. forces established a headquarters on the outskirts of the Ghwayran neighbourhood, complete with a helipad. This move followed the SDFs takeover of government headquarters in the area, stretching from the west roundabout of the electricity company to the east roundabout of al-Basel. The center is now in proximity to the Industrial Secondary Prison and Hasakeh Central Prison, housing detainees from the ISIS organization.

On January 19th, the SDF conducted military exercises in the al-Maamal area, north of Deir-ez-Zor, near the only land crossing connecting areas controlled by the Syrian state and the SDF. These exercises served as practical training for the January 18 exercises at the al-Omar oil field base, involving artillery fire and parachute landings.

These U.S. movements in their eastern Syria deployment coincide with near-daily attacks on U.S. bases in Syria and Iraq. The latest incidents occurred on Sunday evening when two U.S. bases were targeted in al-Shadadi in the Hassakeh countryside and the Omar oil field in the Deir-ez-Zor countryside.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Gov't to introduce new index composed of high shareholder value companies

By Anna J. Park

The Financial Services Commission (FSC), the country's top financial regulator, has pledged to create a favorable environment for foreign financial companies through regulatory improvements that are more in line with global standards.

The comment comes from Monday's meeting in Seoul between Kim So-young, vice chairman of the FSC, and 10 heads of foreign financial firms operating in Korea, including HSBC, JPMorgan Chase, Societe Generale, ING Bank, Merrill Lynch, Eastspring Asset Management, MetLife, Chubb, Mitshui Sumitomo and China Construction Bank.

The meeting was held to closely listen to the difficulties experienced by foreign financial companies operating in the domestic market and to discuss regulatory suggestions to improve the situation.

"When foreign financial companies increase their presence in Korea, exploring new markets and introducing new products, it greatly contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of domestic financial companies and further developing major cities in Korea into global financial hubs," FSC Vice Chairman Kim said during the meeting, adding that securing future growth momentum through globalization is one of the most important tasks facing the financial industry.

Stressing that the globalization of the financial sector is a key factor to sustainable growth, Kim enumerated some of the major achievements by the government to make Korea's financial regulations more investor-friendly, such as the abolition of the foreign investor registration system, reducing their investment reporting obligations, the gradual introduction of mandatory disclosures in English and the overhaul of the dividend payout system.

"The government will foster an investor-friendly stock market environment by proactively facilitating companies to improve their corporate valuations, such as providing support to companies to conduct self-assessments in the market. In addition, the government aims to address the difficulties that foreign financial companies have been experiencing by providing effective solutions to these challenges," Kim said.

Specifically, the corporate program aided by the government to increase their value targets to address the common problem that Korean stocks often experience, where the stock prices of listed companies are undervalued compared to their corporate value. Through the program that will be launched later this year, companies are required to state their plans to enhance their corporate values in their corporate governance reports. Additional points will be given to such companies, when the authorities select a disclosure excellence corporation.

The government also plans to introduce a new stock market index as well as exchange-traded funds (ETFs) composed of companies with high shareholder value.

Meanwhile, foreign financial companies that attended Monday's meeting urged the government to actively make deregulatory moves into matters that they feel most uncomfortable with. Some of the suggestions include the obligation of verifying real names, difficulties related to capital management, and the need for regulatory improvements more in line with global practices.

The FSC said it will review the issues brought up, while holding additional meetings with each sector of the industry, including banking, investment and insurance, during the first half of this year. The authorities also plan to announce regulatory improvements related to the domestic operations of foreign financial companies later this year.
As reported by the correspondent of Syria TV, the Dutch judiciary sentenced Mustafa al-Dahoudi, a former member of the Quds Brigade militia, to a 12-year prison term.

A criminal court in The Hague delivered a historic verdict on Monday, convicting a member of the al-Quds Brigade, a Palestinian militia associated with the forces of the Assad regime, for committing war crimes and crimes against humanity. The case marks the first of its kind in the Netherlands.

As reported by the correspondent of Syria TV, the Dutch judiciary sentenced Mustafa al-Dahoudi, a former member of the Quds Brigade militia, to a 12-year prison term.

This landmark trial represents the first instance in the Netherlands of prosecuting an individual accused of involvement with the Syrian regime in war crimes. Prosecutors detailed Dahoudis significant role within the Quds Brigade militia, primarily composed of Palestinian refugees in Syria, which was established during the early years of the Syrian revolution.

During the initial court proceedings, the judges cited witness accounts indicating that the accused played a prominent role in the Quds Brigade, actively participating in the arrest and brutal torture of civilians. Witnesses provided harrowing details of the beatings and torture suffered by individuals in prison.

Despite repeated inquiries about the charges, his responses, and evidence presented through police investigations and intercepted phone calls, the defendant consistently invoked his right to remain silent on every question.

What is the story of the accused?

The individual, apprehended in 2023 following a legal complaint filed by the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, had been residing in the Netherlands since 2020 and had sought asylum there.

The complaint dossier submitted by the center presented a comprehensive set of evidence establishing that the suspect had committed various violations amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. This evidence included five testimonies, three of which were from direct victims of the suspects actions.

According to testimonies and victim accounts documented by PCHR (Palestinian Center for Human Rights), the accused is identified as a Palestinian-Syrian resident of the al-Neirab refugee camp in Aleppo, born in 1988, with a limited educational background and involvement in construction. Since the onset of the Syrian demonstrations in 2011, he has been implicated in suppressing protesters, employing weapons, and using live ammunition against them.

In his capacity as a group leader within the Quds Brigade, he played a role in the forceful entry and arrest of civilians in their homes, often accompanied by joint patrols from Military Security and Air Force Intelligence. Subsequently, these individuals were transported to Neirab Airport Prison and the Military Academy, where they faced severe torture.

Who is the Quds Brigade?

The Quds Brigade was established in October 2013 in Aleppo by engineer Muhammad al-Saeed, with support from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards. Its formation resulted from the amalgamation of the Lions of al-Quds Battalion and the Deterrence Battalion, which the Syrian regime heavily relied on to safeguard the Neirab military airport adjacent to Aleppo International Airport.

The militia gained prominence beyond Aleppos borders in mid-2018 when it actively participated in battles to control the Syrian desert, particularly against the Islamic State.

Subsequently, the Quds Brigade expanded its presence to the Yarmouk camp south of the capital Damascus and the Raml camp in the city of Lattakia. Additionally, it established headquarters in the central region, serving as staging and supply centers for its forces operating in the Syrian desert and extending to Deir-ez-Zor.

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.
Confidential sources informed Sawt Al-Asimah that a Saudi delegation has recently arrived in Damascus for the reopening of their country's embassy.

Confidential sources informed Sawt Al-Asimah that a Saudi delegation has recently arrived in Damascus. This move marks the beginning of preparations for the reopening of Saudi Arabias embassy in the Syrian capital, which has been closed for the past 12 years.

According to these sources, a team comprising Saudi diplomats and technicians landed in Damascus on Saturday, January 20. Their immediate agenda involves setting up for the relaunch of both the Saudi embassy and consulate.

In the coming days, Saudi technicians are expected to conduct thorough inspections of the buildings designated for the Kingdoms diplomatic missions, in anticipation of their reopening.

It is anticipated that the official reopening of the Saudi embassy and consulate in Damascus will occur in early February, with a target completion date around February 15.

Further insights from Arab diplomatic circles on January 17 indicated the near-term reestablishment of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Damascus. Initially, the mission will be overseen by a Charge dAffaires until an ambassador is formally appointed by Riyadh.

This diplomatic development follows the appointment of Ayman Soussan as the Syrian regimes ambassador to Saudi Arabia on December 6, signalling a phase of normalized relations between the two nations.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

The Turkish Defense Ministry has reported that its forces retaliated against 14 militants engaging in hostile actions within the Operation Euphrates Shield zone in northern Syria. Concurrently, the European Union expanded its sanctions list on Monday by including six individuals and five entities about the ongoing situation in Syria, as reported by Al-Arabiya.

Turkish Security Forces Respond to Hostile Fire in Northern Syria, 14 Militants Affected

The Turkish Defense Ministry announced that its forces responded to hostile actions by 14 militants in the Operation Euphrates Shield zone in northern Syria. The operation on January 22 was aimed at individuals who engaged in aggressive actions against Turkish security personnel.

According to the ministrys statement, the involved militants were part of groups that Turkey regards as a security threat. The term neutralized used by Turkish authorities indicates that these individuals either surrendered, were apprehended, or were incapacitated in the operation.

In response to recent hostile activities, including those impacting Turkish soldiers, Turkiye has intensified its security measures against groups in northern Iraq and Syria. These efforts aim to prevent the establishment of hostile territories along its border and to facilitate the safe and peaceful settlement of the local population.

EU sanctions Al-Assads supporters and five companies due to situation in Syria

The European Union on Monday added six people and five entities to its sanctions list in connection to the ongoing situation in Syria, Al-Arabiya reported.

Among the people are an economic advisor to Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad, three leading business persons supporting the regime and benefiting from it, and two persons connected to the Al-Assad family.

For the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.

The five companies sanctioned companies are Al-Dj Group, Cham Wings, Freebird Travel Agency, Iloma Investment Private JSC, and Al-Aqila company.

Some of these entities are engaged in the transfer of Syrian mercenaries, arms trade, narcotics trafficking or money laundering, which support the activities of the Syrian Regime, the EU said.

These people and companies are now subject to the freezing of their funds and other financial assets in EU member states, while EU operators are prohibited to make funds and economic resources available to them.

Syrian pro-regime fighter jailed in Dutch war crimes trial

A pro-regime fighter in Syrias civil war has been found guilty of torturing prisoners and sentenced to jail by a Dutch court, The National reported.

Prosecutors said Mustafa A. was to blame for two civilians being dragged from their homes and violently tortured in Syria in 2013.

Dutch investigators described Mustafa A. as a loyal ally of President Bashar Al Assads regime who left Syria for the Netherlands in 2019.

Mustafa A. admitted being part of a pro-government militia called Liwa al-Quds that allegedly had close ties to Syrian intelligence.

He denied involvement in war crimes but was convicted by a court in The Hague and sentenced to 12 years in prison. Prosecutors had sought a 17-year term.

It is the first Dutch war crimes case involving an ally of Syrias regime after earlier proceedings were brought against ISIS supporters or other militants.

They are brought under a universal jurisdiction which means people can be prosecuted outside Syria if the suspect is in the Netherlands or a Dutch citizen was involved.

Mustafa A. successfully claimed asylum upon arriving in the Netherlands in 2019.

However, he was arrested in May 2022 after Dutch police were tipped off about his links to the militia, which grew out of a Palestinian refugee camp near Aleppo.

Iran holds funerals for Guards killed in alleged Israeli strike

AFP reports that hundreds of mourners gathered Monday in Tehran for the funerals of Revolutionary Guards killed in Syria, in what Iran called an Israeli strike.

It was the latest incident adding to regional tensions and fears of wider conflagration during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The strike in Damascus on Saturday killed five members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the military force said. Iranian media later reported the victims included the groups intelligence chief for Syria and his deputy.

Mourners carried aloft coffins bearing some of the victims, draped in colours of the Iranian flag, before a stage bearing pictures of IRGC General Qassem Soleimani who was killed three years ago by the United States.

State media reported that funeral processions were planned for three of the five IRGC members killed.

Syrian Citizens Struggle with Restrictive Domestic Money Transfer Limits

In a report by Enab Baladi, the publication said that Syrian residents are facing significant difficulties due to the imposed limit of one million Syrian pounds (approximately $67) for domestic money transfers, affecting various essential transactions such as healthcare, education, and commercial dealings. This situation was reported in Qamishli, al-Hasakah by Enab Baladi on January 22, 2024.

The report highlights the plight of individuals like Mohammed al-Aliwi, a resident of Qamishli, who struggled to transfer large sums of money needed for his mothers cancer treatment to Damascus. With the fluctuating transfer ceiling, he had to make multiple transfers over several days, adding to the urgency and stress of securing treatment.

Citizens resort to fragmented transfers through multiple companies or involve acquaintances to bypass these limits, methods that are not always reliable or available. Additionally, transfer companies scrutinize the sources and purposes of the transfers, often leading to feelings of anxiety and fear among the customers.

Another issue is the refusal of transfer companies to accept older currency notes in smaller denominations like 500 and 1000 Syrian pounds. This forces people to exchange these for larger denominations at exchange offices, incurring additional costs.

The restrictions and verification procedures are part of the companies compliance with fluctuating daily transfer ceilings and regulations to prevent accusations of financing terrorism and money laundering. The Syrian regime has recently decreed severe penalties for unlicensed currency exchange and transfers, further complicating the situation for ordinary citizens trying to manage their financial needs.
Ambassador Xi expressed China's eagerness to strengthen cooperation with Syria, according to al-Thawra.

In Damascus, Syrian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Dr. Firas Qaddour, met with Xi Hongwei, the Chinese Ambassador to Syria, to discuss ways of bolstering bilateral collaboration in the oil and mineral resources sectors. The discussions, held on Monday, primarily centred on aspects such as petroleum exploration, the deployment of survey teams, and the investment in Syrian mineral resources, aiming to boost production capacities in these crucial areas.

Dr. Qaddour emphasized the significance of upgrading the oil sectors infrastructure and rolling out development projects. He highlighted the pivotal role of modern technologies and the utilization of Chinese expertise in this realm. Furthermore, he underscored the value of professional training programs offered by China to develop the skills of local personnel.

Ambassador Xi expressed Chinas eagerness to strengthen cooperation in these sectors. He noted that Chinese firms possess the necessary skills and experience to play a significant role in advancing development in these essential industries.

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.
Commvault has appointed Darren Thomson as its new Field Chief Technology Officer, EMEA & India (EMEAI). This appointment adds to the companys expert team of Field CTOs which builds on Commvaults new cyber resilience offerings, shaping a new era of data protection and delivering industry-leading threat detection and rapid recovery capabilities.

Thomson brings over 30 years of experience in the technology industry to this role, with broad technical and leadership skills and business acumen, as well as extensive experience in managing global teams and projects in high growth environments. Thomson joins Commvault after leading the product marketing organisation at identity and access management company, One Identity. Prior to this, he helped shape the cyber insurance industry through his work at CyberCube and Lloyds of London, after spending many years gaining experience at both Symantec and Veritas in senior executive roles.

I am incredibly excited to join a company that is truly redefining modern data protection and putting cyber resilience first, said Thomson. The recent unification of the Commvault Cloud platform powered by Metallic AI allows us to not only meet customer needs, but to truly exceed them. Commvault is doing what no other data protection vendor is right now, so Im keen to work with the teams globally, and in EMEA and India in particular, to drive this conversation forward.

We are thrilled to have Darren as part of the EMEAI team and his extensive experience will be extremely valuable in our continued success in this region, said Richard Gadd, Senior Vice President & General Manager of EMEAI. This is an exciting time for Commvault, our partners, and our customers as we provide the industrys best data security through the only cyber resilience platform on the market. With these never-seen-before offerings, we are focused on continuing to drive real growth and innovation in the EMEAI market, with Darren playing a key part in sharing our story.
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This image taken Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, and released by the National Transportation Safety Board, shows a section of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 that is missing panel on a Boeing 737-9 MAX in Portland, Ore. Federal officials are recommending that airlines inspect the door plugs on more Boeing 737s after one of the panel blew off a Boeing jet in midflight. The Federal Aviation Administration says airlines should also inspect the panels on an older model, the 737-900ER. Those planes have door plugs that are identical in design to the one that flew off the Alaska Airlines jetliner. Boeing said Monday, Jan. 22, 2024that it supports the FAA action. Credit: NTSB via AP, file

The Federal Aviation Administration recommends that airlines inspect the door plugs on certain Boeing 737s that are older than the Max 9 jetliner that suffered a blowout of a similar panel during a flight this month.

The FAA said door plugs on one older version of the 737, called the 737-900ER, are identical in design to those on the Max 9, and some airlines "have noted findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections."

The FAA issued a safety alert late Sunday. As soon as possible, airlines should visually inspect four places where a bolt, nut and pin secure the door plug to the plane, the agency said.

The door plugs are panels that seal holes left for extra doors when the number of seats is not enough to trigger a requirement for more emergency-evacuation exits. From inside the plane, they look like a regular window.

The FAA said that 737-900ERs have logged 3.9 million flights without any known issues involving the door plugs. By contrast, the Max 9 that suffered the blowout had made only 145 flights.

One of the two door plugs on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 flew off the plane in midflight on Jan. 5. Passengers and investigators have described a violent decompression as air rushed out of the pressured cabin at 16,000 feet over Oregon.

The logo for Boeing appears on a screen above a trading post on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, July 13, 2021. Federal officials are recommending that airlines inspect the door plugs on more Boeing 737s after one of the panel blew off a Boeing jet in midflight. The Federal Aviation Administration says airlines should also inspect the panels on an older model, the 737-900ER. Those planes have door plugs that are identical in design to the one that flew off the Alaska Airlines jetliner. Boeing said Monday, Jan. 22, 2024that it supports the FAA action. Credit: AP Photo/Richard Drew, File

The plane made an emergency landing with a hole in its side, and no serious injuries were reported. On a mostly full plane, no one was sitting in the two seats nearest the panel that blew out.

The FAA has grounded all Max 9s with door plugs instead of regular doors in the back of the cabin. Alaska and United Airlines are the only U.S. carriers to use the plane.

Besides grounding 171 Max 9 jets, the FAA is investigating quality-control measures at Boeing and its suppliers and has increased its oversight of the aircraft maker. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the Oregon incident.

"We fully support the FAA and our customers in this action," a Boeing spokeswoman said in a statement Monday.

Boeing delivered about 500 737-900ERs between 2007 and 2019mostly to three U.S. airlinesand about 380 have door plugs instead of exits.

Alaska said Monday that it began inspecting its 737-900ERs "several days ago" and has turned up no issues. The Seattle-based airline, which has canceled hundreds of flights because of the Max 9 grounding, said it expects no disruption from the inspections of its 737-900ERs.

United said it began inspecting the earlier Boeing model last week and expects to finish the reviews this week with no disruptions for passengers. Delta Air Lines, with 130 planes affected by the new FAA recommendation, said it was inspecting all 130 of its 737-900ERs and did not expect any impact on operations.

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

ChatGPT creator OpenAI removed a bot impersonating a longshot US presidential candidate's voice, enforcing limits on how political campaigns can use its AI capabilities.

A political group supporting US Congressman Dean Phillips had asked a Miami-based startup to create a chatbot that would allow users to engage in a Q and A with the little-known candidate.

"We recently removed a developer account that was knowingly violating our API (or platform) usage policies which disallow political campaigning, or impersonating an individual without consent," Open AI on Saturday told the Washington Post, which first reported the story.

The rise of generative AI has raised fears that people could use ChatGPT and other platforms to sow political chaos via disinformation or AI clones, particularly with a number of major elections to be held across the globe this year.

As a leader in the field, OpenAI is under especially close scrutiny over these concerns and the company last week said it will provide users tools to diminish the possibility of harm from its technology.

The "Dean-bot" was intended as an information tool in the candidate's Democratic primary campaign against President Joe Biden.

It relied on OpenAI's technology, and the Microsoft-backed company swiftly moved to take it down after an article in the Washington Post provided a link to test it out.

The political group behind the bot, We Deserve Better, is co-led by a former staffer to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and has received funding from Silicon Valley investors, the Post reported.

After the report, Delphi, the startup hired to create the bot, was shut out from OpenAI's platform.

Delphi creates bots that can mimic the voice of personalities such as influencers or celebrities, and relies on OpenAI's AI models to function.

After the controversy, it said that from now on it would "prohibit any use of our platform by political organizations or individuals."

"We believed, incorrectly, that it would be acceptable under the OpenAI terms of service to have a political action committee that supports Dean Phillips create a clone of him using our platform," Delphi said Sunday on X.

"We have apologized to both OpenAI and We Deserve Better for our error," the startup added.

 2024 AFP
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

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 Gayher response to congressional questions about antisemitism on campus played a much bigger roleit 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 Gay's ouster. The publication Business Insider reported that several paragraphs and sentences from Oxman's 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 MIT's faculty, its president, Sally Kornbluth, and the university's board membersplus 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 world's largest provider of academic integrity software. The company's products include Feedback Studio, a program designed for high school and college instructors, and iThenticate, a more rigorous offering favored by academic journal editors.

According to the company, 80% of U.S. college students attend schools that use Turnitin's 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 company's products to check submitted articles for misappropriated language and missing citations, Caren said. (Turnitin's programs analyze only text, he noted, and won't 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 isn't 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 software's level of scrutiny could well reveal attribution errorsintentional or notthat have never come to light before.

And that's what a small but highly motivated sector of Turnitin's customer base is counting on.

"We allow anyone to use themmedia organizations, political groups," Caren said of Turnitin's 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."

The National Science Foundation describes plagiarism as "the appropriation of another person's 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 timethe 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.

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 Trump's 2016 speech at the Republican National Convention matched Michelle Obama's 2008 remarks to the Democratic National Convention, Caren said.

The CEO said he also believes that the company's software was used to determine that Germany's 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 politician's 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, it's 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 don't like it or appreciate it or think it's appropriate to use academic integrity software as a means to punish for punishment's sake," Moriarty said.

Plagiarism-detection software can't determine how or why language similar to other sources appeared in an author's work, whether the issue violates an institution's 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 Rochester's College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering in New York. "But such has always been truethe sophistication of modern technology hasn't changed things."

2024 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Last neon master Wu Chi-kai talks about fading visual culture

Editors note This is the first in a two-part series exploring Hong Kong's captivating yet disappearing neon signs, once a bright and iconic part of the city's landscape.  ED.

By Kwak Yeon-soo

HONG KONG  In Hong Kong, the dazzling neon signs that once illuminated the city's streets are now a fading emblem of its eclectic and vibrant past.

These visually stunning signs are treasured by locals and foreigners alike as can be shown in films such as Fallen Angels (1995) by Wong Kar-wai and "Blade Runner (1993) by Ridley Scott. Most recently, director Anastasia Tsangs debut film "A Light Never Goes Out" (2022) called attention to the diminishing visual culture.

Wu Chi-kai, one of about eight remaining neon masters in the city, lent his expertise to train actors of A Light Never Goes Out on how to make neon signs.

"At first, I couldn't believe there's going to be a film about the neon sign industry. But it turned out to be true. The actors came to my workshop to learn about the craft. They embodied the actions very well, but I also did the hand movements for several scenes," he told The Korea Times during a recent interview.

The 56-year-old craftsman has spent nearly 40 years making neon signs.

"I entered this industry by chance. My father worked in the neon factory. During the summer vacation before I turned 18, my father offered me a part-time job. That's where my journey began. Working outdoors was risky, so I stayed inside to help other workers," he recalled.

At that time, the factory boss wanted young workers to join the industry so he offered learning opportunities to master the craftsmanship. Moving from knowing nothing about the industry to knowing a little about it gave Wu a sense of achievement.

"Within a year, I learned how make neon signs. My boss wanted to set up a new factory in Taiwan and he asked me to join him. As an outsider in Taiwan, it was hard to do business there. After two years, he canceled all his plans and returned to Hong Kong. I stayed for another three to four years as a freelancer, but I eventually came back and started my own business with two alumni in the factory," he said.

During the neon heyday, coinciding with Hong Kong's economic boom, there were about 30 to 40 masters who could manufacture neon signs. Now, there are only about eight left, according to Wu.

"In the 1980s, the Hong Kong economy was growing. The vast majority of companies, including banks, restaurants, night clubs and jewelry shops, needed neon signs," he reminisced.

"During the 1980s and 1990s, I mostly focused on making outdoor neon signs. Along the street of Tsim Sha Tsui, most of signs were made by neon. I made a lot of cigarette advertisements because tobacco companies could afford them. A lot of them are taken down right now, but the Bank of China Tower still has the neon sign that I made."

Over time, the traditional craft has been replaced with cheaper LED signs. After incidents in which ageing signboards fell on pedestrians, the government announced tighter safety regulations in 2010. Under those rules, all existing signboards were made illegal unless they complied with new standards on size and placement.

"In the early 2000s, most of the products were not made by Hong Kong people. In late 1990s, one company started to bring client requests to mainland China because the labor cost was significantly lower there," he explained.

"The neon industry started to decline in the early 2000s because of two main reasons  the introduction of LED lights and stricter government controls. The biggest influence would be the maturity of LED lights followed by government regulation because it was not specifically targeted at the neon industry, but sign boards in broader terms."

Despite these challenges, Wu continues to adapt. Compared with the past when he worked on outdoor neon signs, he now focuses on interior and home decoration and collaborates with young artists and designers.

"Neon has a history of about 100 years. In the past, we manufactured neon signs to make people see what services and products shops can sell for commercial purposes. Now more people see it as artwork," he said.

Alongside neon masters, the art of making neon signs faces an uncertain future with few young practitioners to keep the tradition alive.

Wu said he doesn't have an apprentice who is fully committed to learning the craft from him.

"There is one who occasionally comes to my workshop to learn neon-making processes. However, she has a day job and isn't serious about inheriting the skills," he said.

The traditional process of making neon signs is intricate and requires a high level of craftsmanship. It involves torching and bending glass tubes into shapes, then filling them with gases such as neon or argon to create signs of different colors.

Wu stressed that craftsmanship always comes first.

"I feel like first and foremost, neon light is about craftsmanship. Then you can move on to the creative part of making multi-dimensional and complex artworks. People need to have special consideration for neon lights because they have existed for decades. That's why I felt like Tsang's film speaks to us. It gave us the voice."
Wider variety, customer-friendly service behind rising popularity

By Ko Dong-hwan

Bakery products exported by the country are selling fast in the United States where major Korean bakery firms are expanding chains and fronting hundreds of different kinds of choices for breads, cakes and desserts to local consumers, according to the companies, Monday.

The popularity of Korean bakeries in the United States is reflective of the industry's growth in global markets last year across countries in Asia, Europe and Oceania. Korea Customs Service said Sunday that the export figure last year registered almost $2 billion, more than twice since 2013 when it was over $761 million.

The American bakery market claimed the highest portion of Korean bakery exports last year with 24 percent, a 36 percent increase compared to the previous year. China (18 percent), Japan (7 percent), Australia and the Netherlands (both 4 percent) followed in the export amount rank.

The biggest reason behind Korean bakeries attracting American consumers is the diverse range of items in each store that outstrip local bakery products in number.

"Items sold by local bakery firms in the United States are less than 100 on average," an official from SPC, which now operates over 150 Paris Baguette stores in the U.S. said. "Our brand offers more than 300 different kinds with popular picks including chocolate croissants, peanut cream bread and Pain au Chocolat. Such a rich selection to choose from never fails to stimulate the eyes and noses of visitors to our stores."

CJ Foodville, which runs Tous les Jours in the United States, introduced almost 400 different bakery products at its local chains, according to its official.

"Fresh cream cakes, sweet red bean bread and sausage buns are among our hot-selling list," the official said. "Some people drove an hour to get to one of our local stores there and bagged almost 100 breads at once to put them in a freezer at home."

Allowing visitors to pick what they want using tongs and a tray and bring them to a cashier is a shopping method that clicked with local American consumers. They liked spending time inside the stores perusing the selection of bakery items on display before purchasing better than lining up and asking staff for what they wanted, according to the SPC official.

"They could check what each product contained by reading an ingredient description for each one," said the official. "It's a shopping method that never pressures them to hurry, a way to respect each consumer's gastronomic inclinations."

Now a hub of the American bakery market, the companies are targeting to expand their network of stores in Manhattan, New York City. SPC now runs 13 Paris Baguettes in the area including Times Square, Midtown and Upper West Side, while CJ Foodville opened its 100th Tous les Jours in New York City last August. They are now competing against Au Bon Pain, Panera Bread and Pret a Manger, a race the company chose as a challenge to expand its market in the area that a company official called the "center of the global economic and cultural industries."
'We should not antagonize or exclude any one of North Korea, China or Russia,' says former unification minister

By Lee Hyo-jin

Since the beginning of this year, tensions on the Korean Peninsula have been escalating to their highest level in years, with South and North Korea exchanging threats and warnings instead of New Year pleasantries.

The Kim Jong-un regime entered 2024 with renewed military threats and a missile launch, declaring its intention to designate South Korea as the "primary foe" in its Constitution.

In response, President Yoon Suk Yeol warned that North Korea would face "multiple times stronger retaliation" in the event of provocations. He reaffirmed his commitment to achieve "peace through strength" based on the robust South Korea-U.S. alliance and extended deterrence.

However, Park Jae Kyu, a former South Korean unification minister and current president of Kyungnam University, advised that Seoul should pursue a "multifaceted strategy" toward its nuclear-armed neighbor, instead of its current one-sided policy, which focuses on deterrence.

"While North Korea's reckless pursuit of nuclear and missile enhancement and its refusal to engage in dialogue have greatly limited Yoon's flexibility on North Korea, a one-sided policy of sanctions and pressure against the North may give Pyongyang a justification for upgrading its nuclear arsenal," Park said during an interview with The Korea Times, Wednesday.

"Even if we need to improve deterrence based on the foundation of (South Korea-U.S.-Japan) trilateral cooperation, South Korea may still need to simultaneously promote a multifaceted strategy of bringing North Korea to the table for dialogue by building cooperative relations with China and Russia."

He added: "To stabilize the situation on the Korean Peninsula in the context of U.S.-China strategic competition, we should not antagonize or exclude any one of North Korea, China or Russia."

Park is a leading expert on North Korea who played a critical role in organizing the first-ever inter-Korean summit in 2000 between then-President Kim Dae-jung and his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong-il.

The former minister anticipates 2024 to be a "very difficult year" for inter-Korean relations, saying that a lack of a mechanism to control border conflicts, coupled with the overall volatility in Northeast Asia, will make crisis management difficult.

In particular, the nullification of the inter-Korean military pact of Sept. 19, 2018, which was designed to prevent military conflicts in the border area by creating buffer zones, has heightened the risks of an "accidental situation" caused by mutual misunderstandings.

"Considering that North Korea blew up the joint inter-Korean liaison office in 2020 under the pretext of South Koreas spreading anti-North Korean leaflets in the North, there is a possibility of a military conflict if leafleting and loudspeaker broadcasting in the frontline regions are resumed," Park said.

The reclusive regime is anticipated to continue its provocations in protest of South Korea-U.S. joint military drills, which the Yoon administration seeks to hold more frequently this year. And the North's belligerent actions may reach a peak in the lead-up to the U.S. presidential election that is scheduled for November.

"Rather than negotiating with the Joe Biden administration, North Korea will maintain a hardline policy while waiting for the results of the election, with an intention to negotiate with the next U.S. administration," Park said.

In this context, he did not dismiss the possibility of Pyongyang launching an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at a normal angle, or even conducting its seventh nuclear test, to highlight the perceived failures of the Biden administration's North Korea strategy.

The return of former President Donald Trump to the White House, if realized, may pose challenges to Yoon's foreign policy of strengthening trilateral cooperation with Washington and Tokyo to counter Pyongyang's nuclear threats, Park viewed.

"The overarching goal of current U.S. foreign policy is to keep China in check ... If Trump is elected, one could expect him to assess the trilateral cooperation in terms of how much it can contribute to attaining that goal," he said.

Given Trumps skepticism about alliances and his tendency to avoid multilateral cooperation, the trilateral ties could weaken under his presidency.

Another noteworthy development in the Northeast Asian region is the burgeoning ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.

In a recent display of friendly relations, North Korea's top diplomat Choe Sun-hui visited Russia last week and held a meeting with President Vladimir Putin. While the details of their discussions were not disclosed by either nation, the meeting sparked more worries from South Korea and the Western nations about deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

However, the former unification minister said their military partnership has its limits.

"Russia will not be able to provide advanced military technologies to North Korea, because Moscow cannot completely disregard its relations with the global community and international norms. Rather, it is likely that Moscow and Pyongyang will strengthen their ties by focusing on some form of economic cooperation," Park said.

China's position could be another crucial factor influencing the extent of Pyongyang-Moscow ties.

"Beijing is unlikely to welcome the strengthening of military ties between Russia and North Korea. It will find it difficult to accept trilateral solidarity with these two countries," he said.

"China does not view Russia and North Korea as its equals, and does not want to see the Korean Peninsula become unstable to the extent that such instability undermines Chinas core interests."

Some analysts predict that the escalating inter-Korean conflict will expand into a "new cold war" in the East Asian region, with South Korea, the U.S. and Japan on one side and North Korea, China and Russia on the other.

But Park gave a different assessment.

"I do not expect a new cold war to intensify," he said. "The ongoing rivalry is different in nature from the past Cold War between the Soviet Union and the U.S."

While the previous U.S.-Soviet relationship was characterized by bipolar division along ideological lines and extreme confrontation between the two blocs, the current U.S.-China rivalry is not about eliminating each other.

Instead, the two superpowers share a common political necessity to manage bilateral and external relations in a stable manner, Park said.

He also explained that although U.S.-China, South Korea-China and China-Japan relations occasionally experience confrontational situations, their economies remain interconnected.

Touching on the trilateral relations between the three Asian neighbors  Seoul, Beijing and Tokyo  the former unification minister was skeptical about a three-way summit being held in the first half of this year.

"In addition to the delicate bilateral relations among them, the political timelines of the three countries are also factors in delaying the summit," he said.

South Korea's general elections are set to take place in April, while Chinas two largest political gatherings  the National People's Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference  are scheduled for March, Park said, making it difficult for Beijing to take swift action before these two events.
Nebraska Extension will provide private pesticide applicator and chemigation trainings this winter for applicators who wish to obtain or renew their current license.

In-person trainings for private pesticide applicator training are scheduled in Dawson and Buffalo counties in addition to chemigation training for Hall County.

The schedule includes:

Grand Island: Chemigation training, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, Hall County Extension Office at College Park.

Kearney: Private pesticide training, 9 .m. to noon Thursday, Feb. 15, Buffalo County Extension Office , 1400 E. 34th St.

Kearney: Chemigation training, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, Buffalo County Extension Office

Lexington: Private pesticide training, 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Feb. 21, Dawson County Extension Office, 1002 Plum Creek Parkway.

Lexington: Chemigation training, 1 to 4 p.m. Dawson County Extension Office.

Please RSVP to the local Extension Office (Dawson: 308-324-5501; Buffalo: 308-236-1235; Hall: 308-385-5088) where you wish to attend an in-person training so enough materials are provided.

March training dates will be provided in a future article. Please contact your local Extension Office with questions.

South Central Water Conference set for Feb. 1

The South Central Water Conference is planned for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, at the Phelps County Ag Center, 1308 Second St., in Holdrege.

This annual event will bring experts and agricultural producers together to provide an opportunity to discuss issues around water. The event will also include area merchants, agricultural suppliers, researchers, and University faculty to discuss products, services, research, and educational updates.

Topics covered at this conference include drone technology, rusty pivots and nitrates, research updates and NeDNR projects.

Keynote speakers include Eric Hunt, UNL climatologist, who will focus on weather updates and pattern; and Derek Brazda, Li-Cor global business development manager, who will present on the newest in-field ET technology monitoring systems being demonstrated across various locations in Nebraska in 2024.

Pre-registration is not needed to attend the event, and lunch will be provided free of charge to participants.

Sponsors for the conference include the Tri-Basin NRD, Lower Republican NRD, Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, Nebraska Extension, and the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce.

Questions can be directed to the Tri-Basin NRD at 308-995-6688, and more information about the conference can be found on its website at https://www.tribasinnrd.org/
Some people laugh, some cry when coffee prices increase

By Lan Do Mon, January 22, 2024 | 3:07 pm GMT+7

Rising coffee prices have helped Vietnam's coffee industry become better known and benefited farmers, but traders and export businesses have faced many difficulties.

Robusta coffee prices in the domestic market increased sharply following world prices in the early days of January 2024. Coffee prices in Lam Dong province, one of Vietnam's coffee hubs, are now up to VND70 million ($2,850) per ton, nearly double compared to the beginning of last year.

Vietnam coffee to continue gaining from high Robusta prices

Vietnam's coffee exports in 2023 totaled roughly 1.61 million tons, valued at $4.18 billion, a 9.6% decrease in volume but a 3.1% increase in value year-on-year. The average coffee export price in 2023 was $2,834 per ton, a 14.1% year-on-year rise, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Recently, coffee prices have increased. Photo courtesy of Phuc Sinh Group.

According to the Agricultural and Rural Development Information Center, in 2024, Vietnam's coffee sector will continue to benefit from the increase in Robusta coffee prices, which may peak due to concerns about supply shortages.

It is forecast that coffee output in the 2023-2024 season may decrease by 10% to 1,656 million tons, the lowest crop in four years, due to unfavorable weather. Although Vietnam's harvest is in full swing, the supply is not as strong as in previous years. People tend to limit selling to wait for prices to increase, pushing up domestic coffee prices continuously.

Looking back at 2023, Phan Minh Thong, board chairman at Phuc Sinh JSC, one of Vietnam's leading coffee and pepper exporters, commented that Vietnamese coffee has just reached a 25-year peak. "Coffee prices have nearly doubled in a year. Many international buyers are now coming to Vietnam to buy coffee, and the industry is booming."

Some people are happy, others are not

There are those who are happy about the rise in coffee prices and those who are unhappy about it. This year's high coffee prices have made many coffee-growing households in Quang Son commune, Dak Glong district, Dak Nong province very happy.

Nguyen Dinh Chuyen, a farmer in Quang Son, reported that his family had recently harvested one hectare of coffee. The price had increased to VND65 million ($2,650) per ton by the end of 2023 from only approximately VND42 million ($1,710) per ton at the beginning of the year.

However, many traders are in the opposite mood. Phuc Sinh JSC board chairman Thong claims that high coffee prices have hurt a lot of traders since farmers aren't delivering goods to them. Due to a lack of inventory, export businesses and buyers are going through a difficult time. On certain days, Phuc Sinh meets 10 groups of customers, but has nothing to sell.

According to a spokesperson for Me Trang Coffee JSC, businesses that offer complete coffee products will find it challenging to compete with the high price of raw coffee, which causes high input expenses. Besides that, since coffee is not an essential product, lower consumption will have an impact on it. Me Trang finds that, despite the aforementioned challenges, the Alibaba sales channel had significantly boosted sales for the company.

Exports to a number of markets rose significantly

Coffee export value increased in 2023 to a number of markets, including South Korea, Algeria, and the Netherlands.

Algeria, for example, is the sixth-biggest market for Vietnamese coffee exports, and in 2023, it spent $160.2 million, a 62% increase from 2022, to purchase Vietnamese coffee.

In 2023, the Netherlands purchased Vietnamese coffee for $121 million, a 46.2% increase over the previous year. South Korea paid $117 million for Vietnamese coffee, a 17% increase from 2022.
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Vehicles kick up plumes of dust

China Military Online) 10:42, January 22, 2024

A main battle tank attached to a brigade under the PLA 77th Group Army maneuvers in speed during a comprehensive training exercise in plateau area on January 6, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Huang Wei)

A main battle tank attached to a brigade under the PLA 77th Group Army fires its main weapon at simulated targets during a comprehensive training exercise in plateau area on January 6, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Huang Wei)

Infantry fighting vehicles attached to a brigade under the PLA 77th Group Army kick up plumes of dust during a comprehensive training exercise in plateau area on January 6, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Huang Wei)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
North Korea has defended its measures to bolster military capabilities as a just exercise of the sovereign right against Washington-led military confrontations at the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit in Uganda, state media reported Monday.

North Korea claimed it has recently conducted a 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. The drills came after North Korea's launch of a solid-fuel hypersonic missile on Jan. 14.

North Korea's chief delegate, Kim Son-kyong, said his country has been bolstering defense capabilities in response to "dangerous military moves" by the U.S. and its allies, and the move is the just exercise of the country's sovereign right.

"The phenomenon that a sovereign country's rights to independence, life and development are being seriously threatened is evidently focused on the Korean Peninsula," Kim claimed at the NAM summit held between Friday and Saturday in Kampala, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The North's vice foreign minister for international organizations said North Korea's struggle to defend its sovereign right fully matches the ideology of the NAM, which rejects any forms of infringement on a country's sovereign right and an intervention in internal affairs, according to the KCNA.

The NAM is a forum of 120 countries not aligned with any major power bloc. North Korea's late founder Kim Il-sung actively took part in the nonaligned movement against imperialism in the late 20th century.

At a year-end party meeting, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un vowed to strengthen solidarity with "independent, anti-imperialist" countries standing against the U.S.

Seoul's unification ministry condemned North Korea's nuclear and missile development as an act that violates multiple United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

On the sidelines of the NAM summit, the North's vice foreign minister held talks with Sergei Aleinik, Belarus' foreign minister, to discuss ways to deepen bilateral cooperation, according to the European nation's foreign ministry.

Belarus has been supportive of Russia over its war with Ukraine. North Korea is suspected of having supplied arms to Russia for the war while seeking technological assistance from Moscow for Pyongyang's weapons programs.

Details of the North Korea-Belarus talks are not available, but observers said they may have discussed North Korea's possible dispatch of its workers to Belarus or potential three-way cooperation also involving Russia.

South Korea's ministry in charge of inter-Korean affairs emphasized that the international community is taking close tabs on deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

"I'd like to say once again that Russia, in particular, has a bigger responsibility as a permanent member of the UNSC (for enforcing U.N. resolutions against the North)," Koo Byoung-sam, ministry spokesperson, told a press briefing. (Yonhap)
BAMBERG  Bamberg County continues to seek industrial development, but one council member says the county needs to find creative ways to increase revenue.

SouthernCarolina Regional Development Alliance Project Manager Joshua Urwick gave a report to Bamberg County Council during its Jan. 8 meeting. Thats a day before a tornado hit downtown Bamberg.

December was a little slow. We only had two site visits, but we do have some projects coming in the pipeline. Hopefully well get official word in the next couple weeks, and then in the coming months, well be poised for hopefully a very busy 2024 with announcements and projects coming to Bamberg County and the SCA region as a whole, Urwick said.

Januarys already off to a hot start. So hopefully well continue that trend, he said.

SouthernCarolina Regional Development Alliance is the regional economic development organization representing Bamberg, Allendale, Barnwell, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties.

Innovative Poultry Products $2.86 million expansion, which will include the creation of 30 new jobs, is nearing completion, Urwick said.

Hopefully theyll be starting production here in the next month or so, he said.

Councilwoman Sharon Hammond wanted to know the last time the county landed a new business, rather than the expansion of an existing industry.

Urwick later said that would have been in 2021, when South Carolina Oak to Barrel, LLC, a barrel manufacturer, announced plans to establish operations in Bamberg County. The more than $6.8 million investment stood to create 122 new jobs.

The facility opened its doors in 2022. It was leveled by a tornado on Jan. 9.

Hammond said she hopes Bamberg County will see more businesses in 2024.

I would like for us to get the opportunity to bring in some revenue. I think we can create opportunities to bring in some more revenue, and I pray that this council will work together to think outside of the box and try to come up with ways where we can bring in that revenue and sustain it, Hammond said.

Councilman Larry Haynes said he also hopes the county will land a few projects this year.

Arnett Engineered Solutions, a pump and valve manufacturer and provider, and Ctg2 Technologies, a manufacturer of protective coatings for print, also established operations in the county around the same time as Oak to Barrel, SouthernCarolina Regional Development Alliance President Danny Black said.

He said Arnett occupies the first speculative building, which the SCA built at the county CrossRhodes Industrial Park and sold to the company. He said the SCA had also built a second spec building which it is currently looking to sell and locate a business in.

We intend to build a (new) spec building as soon as we sell that one. Were on the verge of having that funding completed, but we probably wont start construction until we sell the one we have available now because well need some of that money to finish it out, Black said.

He said the SCA has been working to lure business to the county, including at the Wolfe tract in Denmark on Heritage Highway, where the SCA purchased a $100,000 building.

Inadequate water and sewer capacity at the site, however, has been a challenge, Black said. The SCA has worked with Denmark to try to secure water and sewer upgrades at the site.

Thats been a long-term situation with a lot of challenges. Hopefully the town is taking the bull by the horns, so to speak, to put in the water infrastructure  to get it up to grade, but we still have to work on the sewer capacity, as well. Thats something not just in Denmark, but across the region, Black said.

He said creating industrial parks with available water, sewer and gas capability costs a bunch of money. The SCA has to come up with most of it, he said.

With smaller counties, the challenge is finding workers, especially skilled workers. Its been very hard. Im putting in an application with the EDA (U.S. Economic Development Administration) to bring in some money to do training in these areas where skills are necessary, Black said, including welders and truck drivers.

Were trying to raise a good bit of money to do that across the region, Black said, including talking with area technical colleges and private training companies.

The population decline in much of the SCA region has presented challenges.

Its hard to compete with a metro area like Aiken, Augusta and Savannah, he said. Black claimed the states creation of incentives for other, larger industrial projects has sucked up much of the money for other projects in, for example, smaller, rural counties.

Interstate 26 is the corridor, and from Charleston to Columbia to Greenville is where things are happening. We have to struggle with that every day. Thats where the money goes. ... That limits the amount of money that comes to other parts of the state, he said.

New chairman

In other business, the gavel was passed from past chairman and District 5 Councilman Dr. Jonathan Goodman II to District 6 Councilman Evert Comer Jr.

District 7 Councilman Clint Carter was selected to serve as vice chairman.

Comer presented Goodman with a service award for his work as chairman.

Thank you, council, for all of your support and guidance and direction, Goodman said.

Finance

County Treasurer Alice Johnson gave the financial report, stating that in November the county had $485,636.19 in income and expenditures of $981,904.05, for a negative balance of $496,267.86.

When the $1,133,061.81 bank balance at the end of October was added, the countys regular account stood at a positive $636,793.95.

Administrators report

County Administrator Joey Preston reported that state Department of Natural Resource officials will move into the Kearse Agricultural Building at 847 Calhoun St. in Bamberg.

The building formerly housed the countys Veterans Affairs office, which has since moved into office space within the countys new multiservice complex.

We needed an office for them, Preston said.

The Kearse building needs to be renovated and the county will seek state funding for the work, he said.

Preston later said, The building is older and needs to be worked on a little bit. Thats on our list of projects to do in the future.

He also stated that the county C-Fund Committee will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31, at the county courthouse annex.

He also said South Carolina Association of Counties President Roy Costner will hold a meeting with county officials from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25 at the SCA building located at 54 Irving St. in Barnwell.

Weve got our requests thatll be going into the state pretty soon on assistance funding for Bamberg County. As you all are aware, we were able to get some last year. ... Were hoping to do even better this year, Preston said.
NASHUA, New Hampshire -- As the New Hampshire primary approaches, both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump continue to solidify their positions as the presumptive nominee  though many voters are concerned that both men are too old to be president.

Biden, 81, and Trump, 77, would each be the oldest man ever elected to the presidency if one of them secures victory in November. Some voters are concerned that an older president would bring instability to the office, as well as poor policy making.

As a result, Republican candidate Nikki Haley has made it her mission to discredit her competitors based on their age, while questioning their mental competency.

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Right now, Congress has become one of the most privileged nursing homes in the country, said Haley during her Saturday rally. These are people making decisions on our national security, these are people making decisions on the future of our economy  we need to know theyre at the top of their game.

Veterans show up for Haley at Manchester rally MANCHESTER, New Hampshire -- In a supporter-packed hall in the DoubleTree hotel, a steady stream of red, white and blue flowed into the conference room for Nikki Haleys Friday rally.

Haleys policy propositions include mental competency tests over the age of 75, as well as the Haley Term Limits Pledge.

Everyone, when they file for office, incumbent or otherwise, has the option to either sign the term limit pledge or not, said Haley in Thursdays CNN Town Hall. Im going to put all of that out for you so that you know exactly which candidates are for it, and which candidates are not  hat way you are empowered with the information.

When we get enough of those individuals to sign the term limits pledge that get into Congress, then we will go and say, its time to vote on it and hold them to account on that, Haley said.

Haley connects with voters at historic NH general store Most campaign stops for presidential candidates look the same  large, hotel conference rooms, arenas packed with supporters, and the like. However, Robies Country Store is unlike most other venues on the campaign trail, hosting prominent candidates such as Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, and now, Nikki Haley.

As of 2023, the average age of congress members is 58, with over 20 members over the age of 70.

Just last year, former U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein sparked controversy over her decision not to step down after a litany of health complications. She barely voted, and was wheelchair-bound until her death in September 2023 reignited calls for congressional term limits.

Moreover, a 2023 Pew Research study found that over 87% of participants are in favor of limiting the number of terms members could serve, as well as 79% favoring a maximum age limit for elected officials.

Despite overwhelming support for term limits and age limits, in 1995 the Supreme Court ruled that such legislation is unconstitutional, as it limits the candidate pool.

As such, if Haley secured a presidential victory she would need to propose a constitutional amendment  requiring two-thirds of Congress to support it.

Despite the glaring obstacles, during her campaign across New Hampshire Haley has been outspoken about her support for congressional term limits as a result of controversies like Feinsteins, as well as concerns that President Bidens mental and physical health is diminishing.

Edward Hughes, 58, attended Haleys rally on Saturday and agreed with the former governors stance due to corruption concerns, as well as age.

So many of these politicians come into office, and they [start] as normal people off the street making a normal wage, and they leave millionaires. Hughes said. But also, in a country of 300 million people, are we really relying on people who are 70, 80 years old to make decisions for us?

However, some Haley supporters are concerned with her policies, citing them as too restrictive and potentially discriminatory toward older politicians.

Jennefer Grene is an undeclared voter who was similarly concerned about cognitive decline, specifically for members of Congress who have stayed in office for years. Conversely, she expressed concerns about the policy being too stringent on candidates running for office.

I suppose in some ways it could be considered ageist, Grene said. We dont put up limits for other things.

Hughes disagreed. For him, aging and cognitive decline was not only a natural process, but a threat to logical policy making, specifically referring to President Biden as reason for term limits and mental capacity tests.
CONCORD, New Hampshire -- With Republican candidate Nikki Haley trailing former President Donald Trump in New Hampshire presidential primary polls, voters are considering their second choice should Haley fail to win the GOP nomination.

New polling from CNN shows Trump is winning the Granite State with 50% support, with Haley trailing him with 39%. While Haley has continued her campaign across the state with little sign of slowing down, losing New Hampshire would mean that the $26 million she has spent on targeted advertisements in the state will not result in victory.

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Im a conservative Republican. [If Trump wins], hes the man and Im voting for, lifelong conservative Republican Debra Waitt said.

A Derry native, Waitt attended Haleys rally on Sunday. She voted for Trump in prior elections but Haleys message and vision for the country have resonated with her.

Immigration is a primary concern, and Haleys emphasis on the northern border is appealing, she said. However, in the case that Haley does not win the nomination, Waitt said her second choice is obvious.

For other conservatives, however, Trumps indictments and association with the Jan. 6, 2021, Washington riot have made him less appealing than he was in 2016 and 2020.

Cory Casalegno, who attended Haleys Meet and Greet at Mary Anns Diner on Friday, considers himself to be a traditional Republican but now is registered as an independent. Haleys resume as a former governor and ambassador, as well as moderate positions, appealed to him during the beginning of the primaries.

Moreover, Casalegno said Trumps grip on the Republican Party made him and his family feel ostracized due to the GOP's increasingly far-right nature.

Im honestly concerned about the health of our republic, Casalegno said. We love our country and the way its run on constitutional principles and peaceful transition of power. Were really concerned about that with Trump.

Casalegno said Haley needs to win New Hampshire in order to win the nomination, and in the case that she does not, he said he would begrudgingly vote for Democratic President Joe Biden.

Trump is the existential threat to our democracy, Casalegno said. Its better to have a president that believes in the system and be worse for us than to have someone who doesnt believe in the system at all.

But some Haley supporters are entirely unsure about a choice between Biden and Trump. As of December 2023, nearly three in 10 U.S adults oppose a Biden-Trump rematch in 2024.

Jill Robinson has been volunteering with the Haley campaign in New Hampshire. She is an avid defender of her policies and character.

Despite Haley trailing in the polls, Robinson said she believes her candidate stands a chance to beat Trump in the primary elections.

She has a great message, her positions are spot-on, and shes a new generational leader, said Robinson, who attended Haleys rally in Manchester on Friday. Im not looking for a candidate thats four years behind.

However, as to whom she would support should Haley not secure the nomination, Robinson is clear that she wont vote for Trump or Biden.
SEABROOK, New Hampshire  The final CNN/University of New Hampshire poll ahead of Tuesdays Republican presidential primary election showed former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley trailing former President Donald Trump 50% to 39% among likely GOP primary voters.

Late-breaking news on Sunday that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis would be dropping out of the race solidified what Haley claimed since the end of the Iowa caucuses  she is in a one-on-one race with Trump.

There were 14 people in this race, Haley told a crowd of supporters at Browns Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire, shortly after the news broke. They were a lot of fellas. All the fellas are out, except for this one. And this comes down to what do you want. Do you want more of the same, or do you want something new?

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In addition to her losses in the poll, as some had Haley and Trump neck-and-neck just a few days ago, optimism among likely Haley voters lags significantly behind that of likely Trump voters. Only 50% of Haley supporters said they believe she will win the Tuesday primary compared to 97% of Trump supporters voicing confidence in his victory.

According to the poll, 70% of all Republican primary voters believe Trump will win the states presidential primary.

Andrew Smith, director of the UNH Survey Center, believes Haleys failure to lead Trump in polls thus far may be driving the low confidence in her as a candidate.

Its hard to stay energized and focused when your candidate does seem to be losing, Smith said. Its a tough environment.

In addition to the low confidence among Haleys voters in the poll, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, who endorsed her and has traveled with her across the state, said the campaign always wanted to have a strong second place finish in the primary. Sununu said in December that New Hampshire was an absolute win for Haley.

Some New Hampshire voters who said they would support Haley shared similar sentiments regarding their preferred candidates ability to win. Hannah Rutten, a 20-year-old voter from Amherst, N.H., said that the outlook for an outright Haley victory is pretty grim due to Trumps commanding lead in the poll.

Were just hoping that independents in New Hampshire can come and sway the election in favor of Haley and away from Trump, she said ahead of news that DeSantis would drop out of the race. Thats what were hoping for right now.

At the time, both Hannah and her younger brother Benjamin Rutten said they were on the fence between voting for Haley or DeSantis. However, Benjamin, an 18-year-old first-time voter, said he is a bit more optimistic about Haleys chances to win the primary compared to his sister.

I think Trump definitely has a lead, definitely is more likely to win, he said. But I think her chances are a lot better than they used to be. And overall, Id say Im optimistic. I mean, if I werent, then I wouldnt really be thinking about supporting her over DeSantis.Despite the optimism, Benjamin agreed with Sununus claim that a strong second-place finish would be enough for Haley to remain in the race, especially given that the next primary will be in her home state of South Carolina.

Overall though, Benjamin said the positive is Haleys combination of a strong on-the-ground presence in New Hampshire and polls indicating a tighter gap between her and Trump compared to the Iowa caucuses.David Smith, a 78-year-old Haley supporter from Stratham, expressed similar sentiments to Benjamin, as he said that even a close second-place finish would help Haley gain momentum on Trump.

I dont know if shell win outright, even on Tuesday, but I think its gonna make her a lot stronger and bringing her a lot closer to Trump, he said after the news of DeSantis dropping out of the race broke.
North Korea called Monday for developing the country's provincial regions to improve the livelihood of people living outside the capital area.

The North's main newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, carried an article on its front page stressing that developing the economy in provincial regions is an "important task" that can no longer be postponed or neglected.

The article comes a week after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ordered the construction of modern factories in 20 regional counties every year to improve the livelihood of people over the next decade.

The newspaper touted Kimhwa County in the North's Kangwon Province as an exemplary model of such development, noting that products manufactured in factories in the province have received favorable reviews.

Following severe damage from heavy rains in August 2020, the county has frequently been highlighted in state media reports, including the coverage of Kim's visit to the county in October the same year.

North Korea has been emphasizing the importance of economic development and strengthening the role of the Cabinet as the "economic control tower" as the country is grappling with severe food shortages and economic hardships.

The North has been under tightened U.N. sanctions, which call for, among other things, a ban on the country's exports of coal and other mineral resources to cut off North Korea's access to hard currency. (Yonhap)
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BUFFALO  Though there is a broad consensus that something needs to be done about spiraling property taxes, reaching consensus about how to reform the states property taxes has been more difficult.

Two weeks ago, Rep. Barry Crago, R-Johnson and Sheridan counties, and 29 other sponsors dropped a draft bill that presents a novel solution: an annual residential property tax cap.

Its a tax cap. Its a 5% exemption, Crago said. If your property value goes up by more than 5% in any year, the amount above 5% is exempt.

In tax year 2023, residential property taxes in Johnson County increased by 23%. Statewide, property taxes went up an average of 20.3%. Those increases were on top of 19% and 16% increases, respectively, in tax year 2022.

Other than two outlier years, over the past 20 years, the average increase has been 4 to 5%, Crago said.

He said that after last years frustrating session in which lawmakers failed to pass much of anything to address rising property taxes, he started to look for solutions.

Up until the last two years, you could expect that your property taxes would go up and budget for it, Crago said. People cant afford a 20 or 30% increase a year. This bill would stop that.

He is optimistic the legislators will support the bill, and one of the bills main selling points is the ease and speed with which it could be implemented.

Ive done a lot of work with the Department of Revenue, and theyve vetted it with all the county assessors, Crago said. One of the selling points is that we can do it with the push of a button, we dont have to change the (tax assessment) system.

So theres no time or cost to implement this bill. It will just happen if the bill passes. Most of the assessors like a cap  they like that mechanism. They like that they dont have to figure out how to administer it.

A number of other bills that have been filed would require homeowners to apply for an exemption, something that assessors say is cumbersome and would not be in place by June 1 for tax year 2024.

Sen. Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan and Johnson counties, said that one of the significant challenges last session was that many of the bills that would have reformed the states property tax system would have required amending the constitution.

Because the Legislature is constitutionally permitted to make exemptions, Kinskey said that Cragos bill is a really elegant solution.

Exemptions are allowed by the Wyoming Constitution, Kinskey said. Therefore, we would not need to amend the Constitution for this bill to go into effect. The bill can easily be administered by the state Department of Revenue and our local assessors. This 5% cap bill would not change how we value property. Rather, it will only exempt any increase from year to year over 5%.

Its impossible to know what the bill would mean for future tax collections because the cap only kicks in when property values increase by more than 5%, and historically that hasnt happened often.

However, in the fiscal note attached to the bill, the Legislative Services Office estimates that if the bill had been in effect last year, it would have decreased residential property taxes statewide by a total of approximately $49.5 million. Of that total, residential property taxes supporting the school foundation program would have decreased by approximately $31 million.

Multiple solutions

Crago views HB 45 as one part of a multipronged approach.

The first piece is we need to figure out how to keep the taxes from going up; thats what this bill does, he said. The other side is figuring out how to help people pay the taxes theyre paying now there is a bill to expand the tax refund program and the homestead exemption.

And there are other bills that attempt to address rising property taxes.

HB 3 would exempt 50% of the assessed value of residential real property for residential real property used as a primary residence, if the owner or their spouse is 65 years of age or older and the owner or their spouse has paid residential property tax in Wyoming for 30 years or more.

Twelve states, including neighboring South Dakota, have property tax exemptions for homeowners over 65. In most cases, the exemption is a portion of the homes value that can be added to the homestead exemption.

Because this legislative session is a budget session, bills must be approved for introduction with a two-thirds majority, which can be a high hurdle to clear.

My hope is that we all vote for all of these tax bills for introduction, Crago said. I would like to get them all to the body and discuss them. I think we should have as many ideas as possible for the body to discuss.

I said this last year too, but we cannot let perfect be the enemy of good. Weve got to pass something. This is part of the puzzle.
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.
Rain could return to the Tucson area later Monday and higher elevations across southeastern Arizona could get some snow.

A winter storm warning is in effect from 5 p.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Tucson said on social media.

For areas above 7,000 feet, there could be about eight to 14 inches of snowfall, the weather service says. Mount Lemmon has an altitude of nearly 9,200 feet. Tucson is about 2,600 feet.

Showers could to begin again early Monday afternoon in the Tucson metro area and last through Tuesday, the weather service said.
Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Lenzy Krehbiel-Burton Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Statebound and down: At least 13 Tulsa-area teams will be participating in the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Associations academic bowl state tournament Saturday at Midwest Citys Rose State College.

Area qualifiers include Bixby and Jenks in Class 6A; Bishop Kelley, Booker T. Washington, Claremore and Pryor in Class 5A; Holland Hall, Vinita and Wagoner in Class 4A; Caney Valley, Morris and Preston in Class 3A; Regent Prep in Class 2A; and Porum in Class A.

The Class 6A state tournament bracket will not be released until all four area qualifying tournaments are completed, a spokesman for the OSSAA said. Originally scheduled for Jan. 13, one was postponed due to inclement weather.

College Board kudos: Bartlesville, East Central and KIPP Tulsa University Prep are among the 1,127 schools worldwide to receive the College Boards AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award. The honor is presented to schools where girls account for at least half of the examinees for one of the Advanced Placement computer science tests or the percentage of girls sitting for a computer science AP test meets or exceeds the schools overall female student proportion.

Other Oklahoma high schools earning the award are Blanchard, Dove Virtual Academy, Grove and Oklahoma City Capitol Hill.

Bond information session: Sand Springs Public Schools has a bond information session scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday at Rock Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 1, 7716 Zink Ranch Road.

Additional information sessions are scheduled for Jan. 29 and Feb. 8 at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

Sandites on the short list: Sand Springs Public Schools announced the five finalists for its 2024 Teacher of the Year award. They are Megan Cabe, a fifth grade math, science and writing teacher at Limestone Technology Academy; Monica Graves, a geometry teacher at Charles Page High School; Britta Hartman, a fourth grade teacher at Pratt Elementary School; Madison Pittman, a third grade teacher at Northwoods Fine Arts Academy; and Kelli Shockley, a fourth grade teacher at Garfield STEAM Academy.

The winner will be announced in February.

Any questions?: State Reps. Jeff Boatman and John Waldron are scheduled to speak from 5:30-7 p.m. Monday at a question-and-answer event about the education portion of the agenda for the upcoming legislative session. Hosted by the Tulsa Chapter of the League of Women Voters, the event at OU-Tulsas Perkins Auditorium is free, and audience questions are encouraged.

Enrollment help: Tulsa Public Schools will host an enrollment information session at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Tulsa Techs Lemley Campus, 3720 S. Memorial Drive. Spanish translation services will be available.

Feedback wanted: Union Public Schools is seeking community feedback on its proposed 2024-25 academic calendar.

As drafted, the calendar would include the return of late start Fridays to provide collaboration time for teachers, as well as two distance-learning days. The full proposed calendar is available online at tinyurl.com/25UnionCalendar. Feedback may be emailed to board@unionps.org prior to the boards Feb. 12 meeting.

Stay home days: Monday is a distance-learning day for Liberty and Wagoner.

Classes are not in session Thursday or Friday for Tulsa School of Arts and Sciences.

Friday is a distance-learning day for Glenpool, Jenks and Prue.

Classes are not in session Friday for Tulsa Honor Academy or KIPP Tulsa.

School board calendar: The Board of Education for Tulsa Tech is scheduled to meet Monday.

The boards of education for College Bound Academy and Tulsa Classical Academy are scheduled to meet Tuesday.

The Oklahoma State Board of Education is scheduled to meet Thursday in Oklahoma City.

The Board of Directors for Dove Charter Schools is scheduled to meet Saturday.

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North Korea's exports of beauty products to China, such as wigs and false eyelashes, soared more than 13 times last year from the previous year amid the North's border opening, Chinese customs data showed Monday.

The value of the North's exports of beauty-related goods reached $167 million last year, up 13.4 times from the previous year, according to data from China's General Administration of Customs.

The outbound shipment of such goods accounted for 57.1 percent of North Korea's total yearly exports of $292 million, the data showed.

North Korea appears to have expanded exports of beauty supplies, which are not subject to U.N. sanctions, in a bid to earn much-wanted hard currency amid economic difficulties, experts said.

The North has been under stringent U.N. sanctions that ban the country's exports of coal and other mineral resources to prevent the country from financing its nuclear and missile programs.

The value of trade volume between North Korea and China amounted to $2.3 billion last year, up 137 percent from the previous year, the data showed. The bilateral trade recovered to 82.3 percent of pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

North Korea partially opened its border with China last year following years of COVID-19 border closure, increasing the operations of freight trains and transport by land. (Yonhap)
Update (8 a.m. Monday): Local storm reports to National Weather Service Tulsa show various levels of freezing rain across the area.

As of 6 a.m., the estimated 12-hour totals for freezing rain include 0.28 inches for Tulsa, 0.14 inches in Bartlesville and 0.09 inches in Muskogee. An emergency manager reported 0.16 inches of ice in Glenpool around 7:20 a.m.

At 7:42 a.m., a Jenks neighborhood resident reported 0.25 inches of freezing rain, with "trees and vegetation beginning to bow from the weight of the ice."

Temperatures are expected to rise above freezing, turning the precipitation back to rain, by about 10 a.m. in the Tulsa area.

The story below published in Sunday's Tulsa World:

It seems as if the cold just lingers on these days.

Temperatures were in the single digits with wind chills well below zero earlier last week, which caused numerous school closures. While it seems as though we had a bit of a rebound in our temperatures, another Arctic cold front moved in Thursday night and brought us another shot of cold air. But, thankfully, that front stayed dry.

So now all we need is that moisture to come back in and mess it all up again, right?

Well, unfortunately, Sunday night might bring just that.

The temperature profiles within the atmosphere will vary on Sunday, meaning it wont be subfreezing from the ground all the way up through the atmosphere to the clouds.

Why is this important? It determines what kind of wintery precipitation we will get  and what kind of mess may follow.

Remember, just because it is freezing on the ground as you walk out your door does not mean the precipitation that falls will be snow.

In meteorology school I was taught to picture a column of air. Within that column you have the surface, or the ground, at the bottom and the clouds with precipitation at the top. When the precipitation falls from the cloud, the temperatures within that column will determine whether it falls as rain, freezing rain, sleet or snow.

In our case Sunday evening, the temperature profile could support what I consider the worst kind of precipitation: freezing rain.

Saying it is the worst is my opinion, of course, but freezing rain tends to be the messiest. It falls from the cloud through a layer of warmer air as rain, in a liquid form, before encountering a sub-freezing layer just above the surface. This doesnt give that liquid precipitation quite enough time to refreeze into ice pellets (which would make it sleet), but instead it freezes on contact to create a glazing of ice.

When it comes to travel, sleet is preferable to freezing rain, which leaves a sheet of ice on ground surfaces with little-to-no traction.

On Sunday, moisture will move in and allow for freezing rain to be a possibility for parts of Oklahoma, including Tulsa.

Accumulation totals may still vary but could be anywhere from 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches in most areas, according to the Tulsa National Weather Service. But even local spots of one-quarter inch are possible.

When it comes to ice accumulations, typically one-quarter inch or less is an annoyance, but travel is still manageable. From one-quarter inch to a half inch of ice will make tree limbs sag or break and most roads ice over. More than a half inch will take down power lines and damage trees, with travel nearly impossible.

Those whove lived here for some time are of course familiar with the December 2007 ice storm. But not to worry  this event is not expected to be anywhere near that. Parts of Oklahoma had anywhere from three-quarters of an inch to 1.25 inches of ice then.

Timing on this round of precipitation should be overnight Sunday into Monday as freezing rain, which likely will impact Monday morning travel.

By midmorning Monday and into the afternoon, temperatures will have warmed enough that the precipitation will be entirely a rain event.

The weather pattern will remain fairly unsettled for the upcoming week, with multiple chances for rain and temperatures above freezing at that time.

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The Ministry of Finance has released a list of registration fees for new cars that will be sold in Vietnam in the coming time, drawing attention from new buyers.

The prices for registration fee determination took effect from November 6, 2023.

A completely-built-up Kia Telluride car, a mid-size crossover SUV hailing from South Korea, carries a registration fee determination price of nearly VND2.7 billion (US$109,290).

Accordingly, residents in Hanoi buying a car will be charged VND322.68 million ($13,072) for a registration fee, while the charge stands at VND269.8 million ($10,950) in Ho Chi Minh City.

However, these act as reference as Kia Telluride cars are not yet officially sold in Vietnam.

In late 2021, THACO Auto, a Vietnamese automaker and car distributor, showcased the Kia Telluride at its factory in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam.

Although the company announced plans to offer the model for sale in late 2022, it has not imported any units as of now.

The delay was attributed to its high prices.

The list also includes the price of Volvo C40 Recharge, a subcompact luxury crossover SUV manufactured by Volvo Cars, which is a Swedish multinational car manufacturer.

Its registration fee determination price is VND2.33 billion ($94,300).

The price is expected to be lower when Volvo C40 Recharge cars are available for sale in Vietnam.

The Volvo C40 Recharge might make its debut in Vietnam in late 2024. Photo: Sgcarmart

The Volvo C40 is a derivative of the XC40 Recharge, Volvo's first all-electric car.

A C40 car has a coupe-style sloping roofline and is capable of producing 408 horsepower.

The Volvo C40 Recharge boasts a lithium-ion battery with a range of some 420 kilometers.

The desirable Suzuki Jimny, a four-wheel drive off-road mini SUV, manufactured by Japanese automaker Suzuki, had its registration fee determination price set at VND789 million ($31,960).

A Suzuki Jimny vehicle. Photo: Facebook

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Editors note: Tuan Lan, a reader, has recently expressed their viewpoint to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper regarding the issue of yielding to pedestrians in Vietnam.

Even experienced drivers commit this common violation -- either failing to yield to pedestrians or mistakenly assuming they have done so when they have not in reality.

In mid-January, news of a traffic accident in Dai Nghia Town, My Duc District, Hanoi left me in shock, highlighting the frequent occurrence of such a tragic situation in Vietnam.

A pedestrian crossed the street where no crosswalks were present, while a truck made a turn at what seemed to be an excessive speed and without proper attention. The pedestrian died at the scene.

While the conclusion of the investigation into this case is still pending, controversy has arisen regarding whether to give way to walkers crossing the street outside designated crosswalks.

Some argue that the responsibility lies entirely with the pedestrian, who entered the drivers blind spot and crossed the street incorrectly.

Others contend that drivers should only give in to strollers that are in their designated areas.

However, I disagree with this perspective for two reasons.

CCTV footage captures a traffic accident involving a truck and a pedestrian in My Duc District, Hanoi, January 2024. Photo: Supplied

The 2008 [currently effective] road traffic law clearly stipulates that in the presence of crosswalks, drivers are required to carefully observe, reduce speed, and yield to pedestrians and disabled individuals in wheelchairs crossing the street."

"In areas lacking crosswalks, drivers must remain vigilant; upon spotting walkers or disabled individuals in wheelchairs crossing the street, they are obligated to slow down and yield to ensure safety for the pedestrians and wheelchair users, according to the law.

Hence, irrespective of whether the walker is correct or not, the driver must consistently observe and give way to the former.

The second issue, which often goes overlooked, is the apparent absence of a genuine pedestrian right-of-way concept in Vietnam, even when the walkers are following the correct path.

As a frequent bus commuter and pedestrian, I keenly experience this phenomenon.

Crossing the road, even at crosswalks with pedestrian signals, feels like a precarious wager with my life.

I find myself glancing sideways, signaling with my hand, and adapting to traffic conditions rather than relying on traffic signals.

A confused individual posts a question on Reddit seeking advice on how to cross the street in Vietnam. Photo: Screenshot

What prompted such behavior from me?

Several situations illustrate the challenges pedestrians face:

- At red lights, some cars park directly on the crosswalk, compelling me to traverse the unmarked road and suddenly become a rule breaker.

- While most cars stop at red lights, many attempt to proceed, especially when the green light transitions to red, with some vehicles intentionally running the red lights.

- During turns, vehicles seldom yield to pedestrians. If I casually cross the street according to the traffic signal, there is a risk of getting hit.

At times, I find myself needing to pause and wait for the traffic to subside. As I resume walking, the pedestrian signal turns red, and the vehicles start to advance. Once again, I find myself labeled as a rule breaker.

Strollers like me would not be forced into this reluctant role if cars and motorbikes consistently yielded the right of way.

What does it mean to give way to walkers?

It involves actively slowing down and observing when approaching crosswalks, irrespective of whether there are individuals crossing or not.

The drivers responsibility begins upon sighting the crosswalks, not necessarily pedestrians.

Unlike pedestrians who move, crosswalks remain stationary, visible from a distance, and should not be used as an excuse for blind spots.

When a person is seen crossing or intending to cross the street, the driver should put the vehicle to a complete stop, rather than maneuvering around and assuming that as the act of giving way.

Even on roads lacking clear crosswalks, drivers must remain vigilant and anticipate pedestrians crossing.

Vehicles advance in front of a pedestrian despite a green pedestrian signal in Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Linh / Tuoi Tre

During my first overseas trip, out of habit, I preemptively gave way to approaching cars (where there were no traffic lights or crosswalks as cars tended to turn right).

To my surprise, they stopped.

Initially perplexed, I continued waiting for one of the cars to pass, but it remained stationary.

Neither that car nor the ones behind honked to prompt my movement.

It was only when I crossed the street that they resumed driving.

It was then that I realized this was a genuine practice of giving way to pedestrians.

If all drivers [in Vietnam] adopted this approach, tragic situations like the traffic accident in My Duc District, in my opinion, would be significantly reduced.

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A Vietnamese man from the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai is running a start-up which focuses on applying mathematical logic to teaching English.

Established in 2016, DOL English currently boasts 18 facilities in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, with tens of thousands of online and offline learners honing their English skills under the guidance of 150 administrative staff and teachers.

An English class at DOL English. Photo: Supplied

In December 2023, DOL English partnered with Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training to award 30 IELTS 8.0 and SAT 1,500 scholarships  each worth VND100 million (US$4,073)  and 30 additional scholarships in cash, each worth VND10 million ($407), to young talents who did well at international Olympiad and science and technology contests in 2023.

Le Dinh Luc, DOL Englishs founder and CEO, also received merit from Deputy Minister of Education and Training Ngo Thi Minh for his contribution to the country's education system.

A tough start

As a student, Luc always excelled at math but fell short of his goals in English.

As a high schooler, the now-31-year-old moved from Gia Lai to Ho Chi Minh City after passing the entrance exam for the math program at the High School for Gifted Students under the Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City.

At his new school, Luc realized that the English courses he had been taking in high school in his hometown were very basic and that his foreign language skills did not match up to his peers.

Scoring a mere three out of 10 on his initial English semester final exam was a stark wake-up call for him.

I was really shocked and scared that [my low English scores] would prevent me from being named as an 'excellent student,'" Luc recounted.

"Then I began studying English as hard as I could so that I could keep up with my peers.

Instead of spending 14 hours a day studying math, I spent just six hours studying math and eight studying English.

Sometimes it took me nearly six hours to read and understand a small six-line paragraph.

I looked up individual words then combined them together and still had trouble understanding.

Even with writing, it took me four hours just to write three lines.

But Lucs hard work paid off.

Eventually, he realized he could apply the same logic he used in math to his English learning and he began to excel.

After a year, I found the intersection between math and English. I really began to see outstanding progress by grades 11 and 12, Luc told Tuoi Tre News.

I went from having no [English] foundation to achieving an IELTS 7.5 score and 100/120 on the TOEFL iBT in only a year.

Le Dinh Luc is seen in a discussion with his partners at DOL English. Luc's edtech company was honored at the Tuoi Tre Start-Up Award in 2022. Photo: MINK

The Linearthinking technique

Luc coined the term 'Linearthinking' to describe the intersection he discovered between math and English.

This method, now the cornerstone of his business, received certification from the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam in 2022.

According to Luc, Linearthinking include researching the influence of the first language on the second language and effectively applying super memory techniques and logical mathematical thinking to learning English.

In one of its bases, Linearthinking addresses the challenges arising from the influence of the Vietnamese language on Vietnamese English learners.

As an illustration, Vietnamese speakers often amalgamate words without regard for grammatical structure.

Meanwhile, English speakers put a heavier focus on sentence structure, word order, and the appropriate form of words.

In another scientific aspect, Linearthinking guides learners to apply the method of simplifying fractions to identify and comprehend specific grammar points in a sentence, with subsequent modification of details.

According to Luc, teachers at DOL English are required to have achieved an IELTS 8.0 band and a degree in language or science-related majors.

They are also required to undergo training in DOL Englishs teaching methods.

Teachers are trained in DOL Englishs teaching methods. Photo: Supplied

In addition to offline learning, DOL English has developed a self-study platform and an online Vietnamese-English dictionary.

Since 2022, Luc's start-up has been approached by investment funds who have valued DOL English at $25 million.

Despite such a high valuation, Luc is not so sure he is ready to sell out.

We believe that creating value brings happiness, that's why, when working on a product, we always tell our employees that the long-term benefits [of their work] will be enormous, Luc said.

No matter how much money you have, it cant compare to the happiness of creating value for someone.

Currently, DOL English works with departments of education across Vietnam to interact with hundreds of high schools and universities.

The ambition is to launch products catering to general English teaching and IELTS courses for middle school students in 2024, Luc said, adding that he hopes to eventually reach Chinese, Korean, and Japanese markets.

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Collaboration between Vietnam and Romania in artificial intelligence (AI), information technology (IT), and cybersecurity is boundless and should be beefed up to further promote relations between the two countries, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said on Sunday.

PM Chinh conveyed this message during his working visit to Romanias National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics (ICI Bucharest), as part of his three-day business trip to the European country at the invitation of his Romanian counterpart Ion-Marcel Ciolacu.

Chinh, accompanied by his spouse Le Thi Bich Tran and their entourage, arrived in Bucharest on Saturday.

In a meeting at ICI Bucharest, Chinh, a former student and diplomat in Romania, told ICI Bucharest general director Adrian-Victor Vevera that Vietnam and Romania should strengthen comprehensive cooperation in AI, IT, and cybersecurity.

He expressed his belief that the collaboration between the two countries in IT and digital technology would open up new opportunities and contribute to strengthening bilateral relations.

He emphasized that such cooperation would serve as a catalyst for promoting growth and generating new momentum for both Vietnam and Romania.

The Vietnamese government leader encouraged experts from both countries to join hands in initiating and developing projects in these areas for mutual benefit.

He suggested ICI Bucharest to make Vietnam a priority partner in its expansion of international cooperation, helping the Southeast Asian nation train high-quality human resources in these spheres.

PM Chinh remarked that the primary obstacle to their bilateral ties is geographical distance.

However, he expressed optimism that cooperation in science and IT would assist in overcoming this limitation.

Time is limited, but collaborative relations between the two countries, especially in science and technology, AI, blockchains, and others, are unlimited, the premier underscored.

ICI Bucharest leader Vevera briefed PM Chinh on the institute, a strategic research agency with a history of more than 50 years of developing the IT workforce for Romania.

The institute is tasked with establishing the Internet infrastructure and data centers in Romania, as well as developing cloud computing projects for state agencies, stated the general director.

It is also involved in the creation of supercomputers, the establishment of a cyber diplomacy center, the development of a mobile data recovery facility, pioneering in blockchain technology, and making virtual trading platforms accessible, Vevera added.

He told PM Chinh that ICI Bucharest is willing to promote cooperation with Vietnamese agencies in these aspects.

Vevera guided Chinh, along with his spouse and entourage, on a tour of the institute, providing insights into its operations.

At the meeting, ICI Bucharest and the Vietnam National Institute of Software and Digital Content Industry exchanged a memorandum of understanding on cooperation.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security also took the occasion to make a direct connection with the institute for cybersecurity cooperation.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1950, Vietnam and Romania have seen their relationship develop steadily in multifaceted fields.

Trade between both sides has experienced a robust increase, surging from US$261.4 million in 2019 to $431 million in 2023, marking a 1.65-fold rise.

This growth reflects an average annual increase of 15 percent, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The two nations are anticipating the celebration of 75 years of diplomatic ties next year.

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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.

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Police officers in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam arrested eight people for allegedly producing and sellling counterfeit milk powder with an estimated value of VND14.5 billion (US$589,000), the provincial police department confirmed on Sunday.

This adulterated milk powder racket was led by Vu Thanh Cong, a 36-year-old native of neighboring Ho Chi Minh City.

Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City officers seized 7,500 suspected counterfeit milk powder cans and 200 parcels containing around 150,000 empty cans of branded milk powder from four business facilities operated by Cong.

The authorities also confiscated a significant quantity of equipment utilized in the production of the suspected counterfeit milk powder during their raids on these four facilities.

Cong confessed to hiring workers and a manufacturing workshop in Binh Duongs Di An City to produce imitation products of well-known milk powder brands, which are not yet available in the local market.

He said he offered these suspected fake products on an online platform and hired deliverymen to distribute the items to customers.

Since November 24 last year, Cong had made illicit gains of VND3 billion ($121,600) from running the racket.

The mastermind of the ring also confessed that he had changed the location of his business every month to avoid being detected by police officers.

Police officers raid a business facility making probable adulterated milk powder in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam. Photo: Supplied

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The World Banks withdrawal of its US$10 million funding for a sustainable environmental project in Nha Trang City, the capital of Khanh Hoa Province in south-central Vietnam, has left 'a huge loss' for the province, said a former official.

It means that Nha Trang has missed an opportunity to boost its development and improve the living environment for local residents, according to Pham Van Chi, former deputy secretary of the Party Committee and ex-chairman of the Peoples Committee of Khanh Hoa Province.

The project, part of the Coastal Cities Sustainable Environment Project (CCSEP) funded by the WB, had the objective of mitigating flooding and environmental pollution in the northern part of Nha Trang.

It also aimed to enhance environmental hygiene, prevent erosion along the banks of the local Cai River, and upgrade traffic infrastructure to meet the city's developmental needs.

The Nha Trang City Sub-project of CCSEP commenced in 2016 with a total cost of $72 million and was scheduled for completion at the end of June this year.

However, a mere 26.2 percent of all impacted households had accepted compensation and handed over their land for the sub-project as of November last year, according to the Khanh Hoa Development Project Management Unit.

In March 2023, the WB found that 32 percent of the compensation packages were not fully compliant with its policies.

Consequently, many sites remain uncleared for construction, leading to the withdrawal of the WB's $10 million funding for the sub-project.

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The Lai Thieu piggy bank-making village in Thuan An City under Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam is filled with a diversity of piggy banks shaped like dragons, the zodiac animal for the upcoming Lunar New Year, due in February.

A diverse collection of dragon-shaped piggy banks, including the Tai Loc (Fortune) Dragon, Gold Ingot Dragon, and animated dragon, is adding a lively and festive atmosphere to the ancient craft village.

These dragon models, crafted from clay or plaster, are traditionally displayed in homes during the Tet holiday to usher in fortune and luck for households.

They serve as symbolic containers for storing money as savings, too.

When the Tet holiday nears, the Lai Thieu piggy bank-making village is bustling. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

In Vietnamese culture, the dragon symbolizes luck, intelligence, nobility, and power.

In spite of the ongoing economic slowdown, artisans in the southern craft village remain to stick with the job.

They are busy creating unique models of dragon piggy banks to meet the needs of customers in the Year of the Dragon.

The half century-old village has seen the number of crafting households decrease year over year, but the beauty and value of making piggy banks have been kept alive and intact.

Operational households are resolute to maintain and promote the traditional craft.

As the 2024 Lunar New Year approaches, the village is busy making piggy banks.

Le Hoang Viet, owner of Hoang Thai Piggy Bank Facility, said that his products for the Year of the Dragon are diverse and ample, with dragon piggy banks in the shape of an ingot and an animated character being the highlights.

These dragon-shaped piggy banks will be shipped to several Mekong Delta provinces such as Tien Giang and An Giang, as well as to Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, according to many workshop owners there.

Vuong Anh Dao persistently sticks with the traditional piggy bank making job at the Lai Thieu Craft Village in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam. The income from selling these piggy banks is sufficient to make ends meet. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

Daos piggy bank-making workshop specializes in baking and drying dragon-shaped models before sending them to other workshops for coloring. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

Thu Suong, an artisan making piggy banks in the Lai Thieu Craft Village in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam, says that she will continue following the craft to preserve the inherited career, and bring Tet vibes to everyone through sophisticated products. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

Piggy banks in the shape of an animated dragon are put on a shelf. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

Artisans in the village paint dragon-shaped piggy banks in yellow, making them suitable for display during Tet. The color symbolizes luck and fortune, enhancing the auspicious nature of these decorative items. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

Cam Ly, who has five years of experience in making piggy banks, is pictured drawing patterns on a yellow piggy bank, a favorite during the Lunar New Year holiday. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

A piggy bank decorated with patterns is priced at VND15,000 (US$0.6) or higher. Photo: P.Q. / Tuoi Tre

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US policy on Kim regime will likely stay course if Haley wins White House: experts

By Jung Min-ho

Washingtons foreign policy on North Korea is emerging as one of the key issues of the GOP primary as Nikki Haley tries to draw a contrast between her tough stance on the regime and that of her rival in the presidential race, Donald Trump.

Heading into a significant test as she takes on the former president in Tuesdays (local time) New Hampshire primary, Haleys campaign team will start airing a three-minute ad featuring the mother of Otto Warmbier, a college student who died in 2017 after being imprisoned by North Korea.

He was taken hostage, tortured and murdered by the government of North Korea, Cynthia Warmbier, who spoke at Haleys campaign event last year, is shown telling the crowd there.

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.

His mother describes Haley, who was serving as the countrys U.N. ambassador at that time, as a leader with strength and compassion.

The ad is part of her campaign effort to highlight her expertise in international relations and to portray Trump as a candidate who would undermine the U.S. status on the world stage  one who often boasts about his cordial relationship with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un.

Appearing on Face the Nation on CBS, Nikki said she would continue to call North Korea out as president, adding You cant have someone whos trying to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us.

This comes as concerns are growing in South Korea over the possible second term of Trump, who had repeatedly demanded the U.S. ally pay more for American troops stationed there and ordered the scale-down of tremendously expensive joint drills against North Korea.

Since Trump left the office in January 2021, the government under Joe Biden has reinforced its security alliance with South Korea and Japan, while maintaining a firm stance against the regime. A Haley presidency  a slim chance, according to polls  would mean a continuation of such foreign policies on the Korean Peninsula, experts told The Korea Times on Monday.

Compared to Trump, Haleys foreign policy is much more predictable. Given what she did and said while serving as the U.N. ambassador, she is expected to bring back the traditional Republican foreign policies and distance herself from the isolationists within the party, said Ma Sang-yoon, a professor of international relations at the Catholic University of Korea.

While serving her term, Haley had been tough on the North. When tensions were rising over the development of its weapons program in early 2017, she warned of a U.S. military action against the regimes repeated ballistic missile tests.

But for most American voters, foreign policy is not among the top issues they care about. So her electoral success depends on whether she could create a convincing message that her expertise in that field is vital to protect and promote their national interests, said Kim Sung-soo, a professor of international relations at Hanyang University.

Polls suggest that Trump, who scored a record-setting win in the Iowa caucuses, is projected to win the GOP nomination for president by a large margin. Haley is hoping her performance in New Hampshire will gather momentum as the contenders head to their next destination, South Carolina, where she served as governor from 2011 to 2017.
Welcome Guest! You are here: Home  Middle East

Relatives of Israeli hostages storm Knesset meeting

Parliament security staff, otherwise very quick to eject hecklers or protesters, stood by during the ruckus in the Knesset Finance Committee. Read More

Tuesday January 23, 2024 0:04 AM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies

Occupied Jerusalem: Dozens of family members and relatives of the Israeli hostages in Gaza Monday January 22, 2024 stormed a parliamentary committee session in the occupied Jerusalem protesting the Netanyahu government's inaction on the release of their loved ones.

"You wont sit here while they are dying there! the protesters who were holding the photos of the hostages and placards yelled at the finance committee members.

One woman held up pictures of three family members who were among the hostages taken by Hamas in the cross-border Operation al Aqsa Flood on October 7 that triggered the massive Israeli military offensive in the Gaza Strip.

Just one Id like to get back alive, one out of three! she said, crying after pushing into the Knesset Finance Committee discussion.

Hamas and other Palestinian Resistance Fighters had held captives around 253 Israelis including some foreign nationals. Of them over 100 hostages have been released as part of a prisoners swap deal in November 2023.

Parliament security staff, otherwise very quick to eject hecklers or protesters, stood by during the ruckus in the Knesset Finance Committee.

Watch Video

BREAKING: ISRAELI PRISONERS FAMILIES STORM INTO THE KNESSET



The families of the abductees burst into the Finance Committee discussion: "Is this your daily order? Do we continue as usual? You will not sit here while they are there"



Source: Yediot News. https://t.co/vXNo4J2dyV pic.twitter.com/9tQ5UiBPPv  Censored Voice. (@CensoredNws) January 22, 2024

One lawmaker covered her face with her hands. Panel chairman Moshe Gafni, head of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish party in Netanyahus coalition, stood up, called a halt to the ongoing economic briefing and sought to calm the protester.

Redeeming captives is the most important precept in Judaism, especially in this case, where there is an urgency to preserving life, he said. We came to make our voices heard, Noa Rahamim, whose cousin Sgt. Matan Angrest is being held in Gaza, told The Times of Israel.

These are our children! they shouted. We cant continue with any other agenda, we need to discuss only one thing right now!

Some had to be physically restrained as they shouted at the lawmakers, and at least one person was escorted out, according to Associated Press.

Protest outside Netanyahus residence

The anger of the families has not been limited to official buildings. On Sunday night, relatives and supporters of the hostages once again rallied near Netanyahus residence in West Jerusalem.

We are asking our government to listen, to sit down at the negotiating table and decide whether to accept this agreement or any other that would suit Israel, said Gilad Korenbloom, whose son is a hostage in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israels airstrikes have killed at least 25,295 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000 as on January 23, 2024, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Jon Polin, father of a hostage, said Israelis serve their country and in return we expect the government to ensure our safety.

We are asking the government to play its part, to propose an agreement, to bring it to a successful conclusion and to bring the remaining hostages back alive, Polin said.

Demonstrators have also been camping outside Netanyahus coastal home as well as the Knesset building, some demanding a unilateral end to the war or an election that might topple the hard-right government.



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Welcome Guest! You are here: Home  India

Sam Pitroda to raise Indias EVM issues in front of global media on Jan 25

Sam Pitroda said the press conference will be held on January 25 because it coincides with the Voters Day. Read More

Monday January 22, 2024 7:51 PM , ummid.com News Network

Mumbai: The President of Indian Overseas Congress and a key member of the erstwhile UPA government in New Delhi has decided to raise the manipulation of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) in front of the international media on January 25, 2024.

This is a matter of trust which a voter has lost when the elections are held using with the EVMs. There are serious concerns being raised about the use of EVMs and we will raise all these issues in front of the international media on January 25, 2024, Sam Pitroda said talking to The Red Mike YouTube channel run by former NDTV journalists.

Pitroda said the online press conference via Zoom will be held on January 25 because it coincides with the Voters Day.

January 26 is the Republic Day when we celebrate the Constitution of India whereas January 25 is the National Voters Day. This is why we have chosen January 25 for out press conference, he said.

'Fear of agencies'

Pitroda also said that there is a fear of agencies and people are afraid of raising questions and talking about the issues of national interests.

One person from New Delhi was supposed to address the press conference on January 25. He however backed out saying he feared his family members will be harassed by the agencies, Pitroda said.

He said despite all these challenges the press conference will go on as per the announced schedule.

In reply to a question, Pitroda said he will be addressing the press conference as a voter and not as the President of the Indian Overseas Congress.

Raising similar concerns, Pitroda had in the last month said that the ruling BJP could win more than 400 seats if the issues with the Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) are not fixed.

'SC lawyers campaign against EVM'

Sam Pitrodas press conference to highlight the manipulation of EVMs is scheduled at the backdrop of a team of Supreme Court lawyers who led by Advocate Bhanu Pratap and Mehmood Paracha are running a campaign demanding elections using ballot papers.

The Supreme Court lawyers two weeks ago had also demonstrated at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi how the EVM and VVPAT can be hacked to favour a particular party.

The Election Commission of India meanwhile rejected all these allegations and said the EVMs used in India cannot be hacked.

The commission is also running a counter campaign at various district headquarters and cities to show the EVMs are safe and trustworthy.

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Welcome Guest! You are here: Home  Middle East

SA Vs Israel at ICJ: Potential and Limitations of Provisional Measures

As far as the main case is concerned, it may take years to decide whether there was any criminal genocidal intent. Read More

Monday January 22, 2024 10:17 AM , Bharat Dogra

There are high hopes that the South Africas ICJ (International Court of Justice) case can result in some important protective steps being taken to bring the much needed relief in Gaza. This can come as a result of provisional measures being ordered in two important contexts. Firstly, there can be an order for substantially stepping up relief supplies, something which is important as well as likely. Secondly, there can be an order for halting military operations on both sides which is very important but not very likely.

As far as the main case is concerned, it may take years to decide whether there was any criminal genocidal intent. Just now what is more important are protective provisional measures and there is likelihood that these can come within a few weeks, probably in February . These are eagerly awaited and should come as soon as possible as each day continues to bring more and more distressing news. The sooner these can come the better it is.

The second step relates to implementation as these provisional measures can become effective only with the approval of the Security Council of the United Nations, and here these can be stopped by the use of the veto power of a single permanent member of the United Nations.

Prime Minister of Israel Netanyahu has stated that he is determined to carry on his attack against the Hamas till he achieves the desired results. Let us see whether the US exercises its powers in a way which can annoy Netanyahu. This appears unlikely. What appears likely is that the provisional measures by themselves may be able to step up relief supplies and efforts, but may not be able to stop the military actions. Hence other efforts for peace should also continue, instead of placing all hopes in the decisions of the ICJ.

In the case of the Russia Ukraine War , the ICJ had ordered cessation of military operations in March 2022 but the war is still continuing. Russia had justified its military advance on the basis of alleged genocidal actions in parts of the Russian speaking region of Ukraine but Ukraine had denied this. The court did not accept the genocidal intentions and asked the military action to stop, but nothing came out of it.

However a question arises as to whether the ICJ is able within its procedures to take account of a much wider set of relevant factors. To give an example, in the case of Ukraine war could the ICJ have considered at least the statements made by several senior US and western diplomats that legitimate security concerns of Russia had been violated or challenged by endless eastward expansion of NATO after promises of expanding not even one inch had been made?

The ICJ could also have considered that even if what had happened in the Russian speaking region of Ukraine had not amounted to a genocide, wasnt it at least a very grave matter of atrocities against people of a certain ethnicity or language group, or was it not a grave provocation?

Also, it is not possible to consider this war without also considering the 2014 US/West assisted coup which ousted a legitimately elected government of Ukraine and set the country on a confrontational course resulting ultimately in very serious and distressing consequences for the overwhelming majority of the people living here. Is it not possible for the ICJ, in the interests of justice, to take a wider view considering all relevant issues?

Similarly, in the case of Gaza, it is important to consider several other important issues such as a lot of important information which suggests that there was deliberate neglect of warnings that were certainly available regarding the October 7 attack. This in turns suggests that this attack was used as a pretext for a much more massive attack on Gaza with the possible objective of evacuating all or most of the people here. If such important issues can be considered by the ICJ on the strength of all available evidence, then the case for stopping the military operation becomes much stronger.

What is more, instead of indicting an entire country in such cases, the attempt should be to indict only the most aggressive elements. Once an entire country is indicted, the response is to close ranks, whereas if only the most aggressive elements likely to be responsible for the mass distress are indicted, then these elements get isolated and weakened, particularly if already there are reasons for many, many people in the country to be suspicious of such leaders. In fact if the justice processes lead to the weakening of the most aggressive forces on both sides, then we will get nearer to peace, as dominating aggressive forces on both sides feed on each other leading to prolonging of conflicts.

Lastly, an important question needs to be raised  whether several prominent leaders of the most powerful countries who have been responsible for the death of several hundred thousand innocent people in recent decades will ever be brought before the ICJ? The answer on the basis of the past record appears to be a big no.

[Bharat Dogra is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Planet in Peril, Protecting Earth for Children and A Day in 2071.]

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By Jon Dunbar

Three Japanese hardcore/crust punk bands  Zikade and Marvelous, both from Ashikaga, and Wage Slave, from Fukushima  are coming to Korea for a show this Saturday.

The show was made possible by  and is in celebration of  "Mutant Rebellion," a 260-page zine. It's the creation of a guy known in Korea as Baek Ryun, but overseas as Travis.

Travis has traveled extensively over a period of two years, visiting raw hardcore, D-beat, crust punk and noise punk scenes in various global cities. "Recently I traveled to six states in the U.S. for three months  New York, New Jersey, Texas, Nevada, Arizona and California  and now I am taking a break in Japan," he told The Korea Times. "I was not only in the U.S. but also in Japan for two months and in Europe (including Russia) for four months to make it."

He got the idea to release his own zine from a Japanese crust punk friend named Yoshiharu Sugawara, also known by the name HAL, who showed Travis his own magazine, "Damaging Instinct."

"After seeing it, I was so impressed that I thought I should make one myself," Travis said.

The book shares Travis' photos of his trips to the U.S., Japan and Europe, as well as graphic/layout design, plus interviews with the bands he's met and his personal thoughts on subculture and the punk scene.

"Since I was young, I have been listening to death metal/black metal/grindcore and other dark music genres. I am satisfied that it satisfies both the visual aspect as well as the musical aspect," he said.

"In Korea, no one wears crust pants or studjackets, and there are very few performances. That's why I often go abroad. Starting this year, I will make a raw noise punk band even if I have to do it alone."

His specific taste in music often takes him abroad in search of the sounds and the aesthetic he likes  as well as a community.

"I know people from the Korean punk scene, but I'm not very close with them  I feel left out," he said. "What I feel every time I go abroad is that even when I meet someone who likes hardcore/crust punk for the first time on the other side of the world, I feel as if I've known that person my whole life. It's hard to feel this kind of bond in Korea. This is just my personal opinion, but it seems that the Korean punk scene only communicates and becomes friendly with people who have been close to them for a long time in the scene. That is why I am closer to American, European, Thai and Japanese punks. I have friends who welcome me wherever I go in the world."

He said "Mutant Rebellion" will be sold in subculture stores in Korea, as well as New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Osaka, plus through underground labels in Italy and private shipping. It will also be available for purchase at the show this weekend.

The show starts this Saturday at 6 p.m. at Club SHARP in western Seoul's Mangwon-dong. They'll be joined by local acts K-Supermotel, Tom Tom Tom and Doguul. Tickets cost 20,000 won and are only available at the door. Visit @baekryun__prima on Instagram for more information.
HA NOI  The logistics industry has made big strides in recent times, significantly contributing to the countrys economic growth and generating a number of jobs.

In the World Bank rankings, Viet Nam currently ranks 64th out of 160 countries in terms of logistics development and fourth in Southeast Asia after Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.

It was also among the top 10 in the 2023 Emerging Markets Logistics Index compiled by Agility, one of the worlds top freight forwarding and contract logistics providers.

Among Southeast Asian countries, it was fourth behind Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

But Viet Nams logistics costs are equivalent to 16.8-17 per cent of its GDP, much higher than the global average of 10.6 per cent, weakening the competitiveness of its goods globally, chairman of the Viet Nam Logistics Association (VLA) Le Duy Hiep, said, pointing to limitations in infrastructure, seaport planning and connectivity between various means of transport.

The World Bank also said Viet Nam's logistics industry still shows many shortcomings in terms of capacity and the pace of digital transformation by businesses.

Although the Government has pushed ahead with a national logistics development strategy for until 2035 that integrates digital transformation, it requires greater efforts to boost the sectors digitisation.

Besides, the railway network has yet to be fully tapped to serve trade with China and ASEAN member countries despite its great potential.

Given that, Hiep suggested offering more incentives to help logistics firms bolster their competitiveness.

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Duy ong said the number of logistics businesses has increased rapidly to over 3,000.

The Government is trying to improve the investment environment, increase public spending, stimulate demand, and remove difficulties faced by manufacturers and exporters, he said.

Infrastructure is a key factor in the development of the logistics industry.

In the past two years many important highways and regional roads have been built.

Viet Nam's goal is to have 3,000km of highways by 2025 and 5,000km by 2030 besides coastal roads, ports and airports.

ong said "These are necessary conditions for Viet Nam to develop the logistics industry. However, to achieve the goal of cutting logistics costs, improving the business environment and enhancing the competitiveness of the logistics industry amid the international economic integration and fourth industrial revolution, we still have much work to do."

With respect to the legal framework for the industry, specific policies expanding on guidelines have not been announced or there are overlaps, he said.

Transport and logistics infrastructure are not synchronised to create multimodal transport corridors though the need for high-quality transshipment of goods is growing, he said.

Viet Nam also lacks centralised logistics areas in strategic locations connected with ports, airports, national highways, or production facilities, a significant hurdle to the development of the logistics industry, he said.

"The current question is how to take advantage of the opportunity to turn logistics into an important economic sector, both meeting domestic needs and being internationally competitive, while keeping up with development trends. The global trend is green logistics to achieve sustainable development goals."

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien said to develop the logistics industry quickly the ministry would co-ordinate with other agencies, local authorities and businesses and industry associations to draft a development strategy for until 2035.

It would also co-ordinate with the Ministry of Transport and various localities to ensure co-ordination between traffic and logistics centre plans across the country, he said.

It would help provinces and cities, industry associations and businesses proactively plan to reduce congestion at ports and border gates, he said.

It will also promote links between logistics and production businesses and the role of the Viet Nam Logistics Forum.

ong said the Government would improve the logistics infrastructure, review plans and ensure the synchronisation of infrastructure with transport services.

To develop human resources for logistics, authorities plan to accurately determine labour needs and develop occupational standards, he added. VNS
On January 22, 2024, the high-level delegation from Talanx Group, along with its German subsidiary HDI Global SE (HDI) pays a noteworthy visit to Vietnam. Notably, the delegation engaged in productive discussions and collaborative efforts with key enterprises in Vietnam, including Vietnam Oil and Gas group (Petrovietnam) and PVI Joint Stock Company (PVI Holdings), renowned as major players in the financial and insurance sector in Vietnam.

Headquartered in Hanover, Talanx Group stands as a prominent German multinational financial services group, specialising in insurance, reinsurance and asset management. Ranking as the third-largest insurance group in Germany and one of European largest insurance groups based on premium income, Talanx plays a vital role in the global financial market.

HDI Global SE  an enterprise with its entire charter capital owned by Talanx Group  a leading industrial insurer in Germany, is currently a strategic shareholder holding the controlling stake in PVI at 51.49%.

Meanwhile, Petrovietnam (PVN) stands as a cornerstone in Vietnam's economic landscape, entrusted with overseeing and executing oil and gas activities within the countrys territory and investing abroad. After nearly half a century of development, Petrovietnam has achieved outstanding and comprehensive growth in both scale and depth, currently holding a notable 35% stake in PVI.

After 28 years of establishment and development, evolving from an internal insurance company within Petrovietnam with a modest capital of VND22 billion, PVI has undergone a series of transformative reforms, emerging as a professional finance-insurance institution with a robust presence in both the Vietnamese and regional markets. PVI has notched many industry-leading milestones, bolstered by governance and risk management support from strategic shareholders such as HDI Global SE, Petrovietnam and the International Financial Corporation (IFC).

The delegation features prominent figures, including Mr. Torsten Leue, CEO of Talanx Group and Dr. Edgar Puls, CEO of HDI Global SE and Member of the Board of Management of Talanx Group. This visit is expected to further strengthen the collaborative investment ties between the German insurance group and Petrovietnam, fostering stronger bonds within the Vietnamese insurance industry and solidifying the friendship and investment relationships between the two countries.

A model for Vietnam-Germany investment partnership

Vietnam is standing as Germany's foremost trading partner in Southeast Asia. In terms of investment, over the past many years, many famous German corporations such as Siemens, Metro, Mercedes-Benz, Deutsche Bank, B.Braun, HDI Global SE and Messer have established their long-term investments in Vietnam.

The World Business Outlook Report in Spring 2023 of the German Industry and Commerce in Vietnam (AHK) revealed that more than 90% of German businesses are inclined to either sustain or expand their investments and production in Vietnam, underscoring the allure and potential of the Vietnamese market for German investors.

The collaboration and investment between Talanx/HDI and Petrovietnam in PVI are recorgnised as a "strong partnership" between the two businesses of the two countries, yielding positive outcomes for both sides and serving as a lucrative investment partnership model between Vietnam and Germany. PVI's consistent growth in recent years serves as a clear validation of this model. Notably, with training support from Talanx, PVI has successfully executed compliance and risk management projects, positioning itself as the inaugural and sole entity to implement the new international financial reporting standards  IFRS 17  in the Vietnamese insurance sector.

Over the last three years, PVI has undergone significant internal restructuring, implementing a targeted profit plan that prioritises operational efficiency over revenue. Leveraging shareholder consensus and effective international management, PVI has enhanced performance and financial indicators. With support from HDI, PVI has adopted a research lab model to harness the most effective products from Talanx on a global scale. Backed by a well-trained team and robust remuneration policies, PVI has demonstrated improved performance, positioning itself as a leading insurance company in Vietnam and maintaining steady growth even amidst challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
ONG NAI  Cat Tien National Park has been building itself as the second site in Viet Nam for the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List, a global initiative for successful nature conservation.

At its heart is the Green List Sustainability Standard, which provides a global benchmark for how to meet the protected and conserved area management challenges of the 21st century.

The effort is supported by the USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity, part of the Sustainable Forest Management and Biodiversity Conservation (VFBC) project  Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), World Wide Fund for Nature in Viet Nam (WWF-Viet Nam), in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The park, on an area of more than 82,000ha in the provinces of ong Nai, Lam ong and Binh Phuoc, is a rich biodiversity site in Viet Nam, and it has been approaching the final assessment.

According to IUCN, the Cat Tien Park dossier was scrutinised and all members of the Expert Assessment Group for the Green List (EAGL) approved the decision to nominate the site, and the independent reviewer approved the dossier in December 2023 and submitted it to the Green List Committee for the final stage.

It is an outstanding site having implemented biodiversity monitoring since the early 2000s, with data on key species populations like birds, primates, deer and crocodiles, according to a report unveiled at EAGL meetings in April and September 2023.

The IUCN GL aims to recognise and increase the number of protected and conserved areas that deliver long-lasting conservation results for people and nature. It is jointly led by the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) and by the IUCN Secretariat.

Since the IUCN GL Standard was launched at the 2016 IUCN World Conservation Congress, it has achieved global results including 77 certified protected and conserved areas from 18 countries around the world being Green Listed (as of end of 2023).

There are more than 300 engaged sites, of which 108 are formally committed to the IUCN Green List (approximate number of formally and informally registered sites and networks of sites).

A report from IUCN says more than 60 countries are engaged in the IUCN GL community globally, of which there are 31 greenlisted sites in 10 countries in Asia: Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Pakistan, South Korea and Viet Nam.

At a stakeholder meeting in Cat Tien Park on January 18, experts shared the IUCN GLs benefits for Viet Nam, that it provides global recognition, attracting attention to Viet Nam's commitment to biodiversity conservation.

USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity empowers Protected Areas in Viet Nam to achieve IUCN Green List recognition for biodiversity conservation.

The USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity has played a pivotal role in supporting the Protected Area (PA)s aims for IUCN Green List recognition. The project sites include Cuc Phuong National Park, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vu Quang National Park, Bach Ma National Park, ong Chau-Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve, Song Thanh National Park, Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park and Cat Tien National Park, participating in the IUCN GL programme

Two others sites, Con ao National Park and Pu Mat National Park, are in the Registration and Application Phase.

In line with the IUCN GL regulations, the burden of the evaluation process lies with the PA management boards. This involves substantial effort associated with evidence collection, drafting documentation, hosting meetings and facilitating EAGL site visits.

Within the existing PA funding system where reliance on government budgets is the norm and dedicated funding for monitoring and evaluation is absent, the support provided by USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity is a major advantage. Project funding not only alleviates the financial burden but also ensures that the evaluation process proceeds unhindered, fostering a more robust foundation for biodiversity conservation.

As the IUCN GL becomes the benchmark for assessing Protected Area management effectiveness, USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity support increases the chance of long-term government funding for the IUCN GL.

Viet Nam has made commendable strides in biodiversity conservation, and its participation in the IUCN GL reflects a commitment to global environmental sustainability. After a meticulous 2-year evaluation process, Van Long was the first site in Southeast Asia to be added to the Green List in 2019.

Annie Wallace, Director of USAID/Vietnam Office of Climate Change, Energy and Environment, said: "USAID biodiversity conservation programming in Viet Nam is supporting protected areas that exhibit good examples of management  like those outlined in the IUCN Green List standard - along with conservation best practices and initiatives.

The recent camera trap survey shows good results in Cat Tien and it demonstrates that long term investments in improving management of protected areas yield conservation results, which is why the US Mission to Viet Nam through USAID is partnering with Cat Tien throughout the Green List assessment process. USAID intends to continue to support candidate sites to obtain Green List status to demonstrate effective management and Green List standard applicability."

Green List Status is not just a conservation label but a holistic management approach that addresses the interconnectedness of protected areas, environmental health and human well-being, she said.

She shared: USAID will continue to partner with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to support candidate sites to obtain Green List status to highlight the effectiveness and applicability of the standard. I hope this partnership will inform the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Developments decision to potentially integrate the components of GL standards into national management mechanisms and policies.

I expect that Green List status will bring greater recognition and political support for conservation efforts and provide deserved recognition that will motivate staff and managers of protected areas.

The government has invested heavily in protected area staffing and infrastructure, yet wildlife continues to disappear, as the results of the USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity camera trapping campaign clearly demonstrated. What is needed now is a renewed focus on protected area management effectiveness, which the IUCN GL is designed to assess and report on. Under USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity, IUCN is proud to be supporting the GL of eight protected areas, shared by Jake Brunner  Head, IUCN Lower Mekong Subregion/Vietnam Management.

Nick Cox, Chief of Party- USAID Biodiversity Conservation Activity, WWF stated: "Measuring progress and conservation impact is vital to improving the overall performance of Viet Nams national parks and nature reserves. The IUCN Green List initiative helps forest owners see where improvements are needed if their protected area is to reach an international management standard.

Director of Cat Tien National Park, Pham Xuan Thinh stated: While awaiting results from the international IUCN committee, we commit to consistently implementing comprehensive conservation measures and tirelessly striving to meet the rigorous criteria set by the Green List. Our goal is to become one of a model of international standards in sustainable management and biodiversity protection.

Biodiversity-based eco-tourism service has been creating important revenue for the Cat Tien Park and communities living in the buffer zone as more than 85,000 tourists visited the site in 2023.

The park has been the only site in Viet Nam hosting wildlife watching night tours where visitors could see animals moving at very close range. VNS
QUANG NINH  The waters surrounding Co To island in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh have been frequented by schools of dolphins and whales, capturing the attention of local fishermen and authorities.

Most recently, a resident of Co To island district, while fishing for squid on January 20, recorded footage of a group of around 30 dolphins surfacing in the sea approximately 2-3 km off the coast of the island.

According to him, the encounter is not uncommon, but usually, only a few dolphins appear. The man said this is the largest group he has ever seen.

In mid-December 2023, during their patrol, local border guard soldiers captured a 35-second clip of a pod of whales appearing southeast of the island, approximately six nautical miles from the coast.

Also last year, a group of 4-5 whales were spotted foraging for food around Co To Island twice in July and September.

In 2022, local fishermen discovered a group of dolphins swimming for several hours near the local Nam Hai beach in November, while a rare sea turtle weighing around 20kg made an appearance at ong beach.

For several years, the authorities of the district have been committed to environmental protection, safeguarding forests, natural resources, marine ecosystems, and actively collecting and processing ocean waste, with the goal of making Co To a plastic-free and sustainable tourist destination. Since September 15 last year, the district has prohibited visitors from bringing single-use plastic items.

Thanks to these efforts, the local marine environment has improved, with rare animals such as sea turtles, dolphins, and whales reappearing near the shore after many years of absence and coral reefs beginning to thrive.  VNS
Korea and the United States have discussed ways to expand the participation of Korean companies in the maintenance of U.S. military equipment in the Indo-Pacific region, the defense ministry said Monday.

Lee Gap-su, head of the ministry's logistics management bureau, held a meeting with Christopher J. Lowman, U.S. assistant secretary of defense for sustainment, on the sidelines of a Pentagon-hosted workshop on the arms industry and logistics support held in Hawaii on Thursday and Friday.

During the talks, the two sides shared the need to expand the use of logistics capabilities of U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific region, citing changes in the security environment, supply chain uncertainties and increasing regional conflicts, the ministry said.

The ministry said the workshop introduced defense maintenance, repair and overhaul projects (MRO) involving Korean companies, including Korean Air, Sunjin Entech, LIG Nex1 and Hanhwa, paving the way for their greater participation in the MRO programs in the region.

The workshop was attended by defense officials from 15 other nations in the Indo-Pacific region, including Australia, Japan, Britain, Germany, France and Canada. (Yonhap)
Dr Mattias Larsson*

Huong is a lively nine-year-old girl, good in school and sports. She had however been coughing for about two weeks, especially during the night, which deprived her from sleep. One morning she woke up with a high fever, headache, and sore throat.

When the fever approached 40 degrees Celsius the parents took her to a clinic where they tested for Influenza A, dengue and COVID but it was all negative. As she had a sore throat the doctor diagnosed throat infection and treated with antibiotics, Augmentin. However, after five days of treatment her condition worsened, and she also had developed diarrhea. The parents then took her to Family Medical Practice for examination.

The paediatrician found that she had high fever, rapid breathing, and fatigue. He checked the prior results and ordered blood tests (CBC and CRP) which showed that she had a severe infection, however most likely viral. For more accurate diagnosis the pediatrician suggested a new test, nasopharynx PCR, that could test more than 20 different pathogens at one time and takes only two hours to get the result.

The test results showed she had three different pathogens: Rhinovirus, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The doctor explained that since FMP started PCR diagnostics, they have observed a significant number of patients with multiple concurrent infections. This suggests that when a person is already infected, their immune system becomes preoccupied, thereby increasing the risk of acquiring additional infections.

The parents were interested and asked a bit more about how common it was with multiple infections and what infections are the most common. The paediatrician explained that about one third of the PCR results had several pathogens at the same time, mostly two but sometimes three or even more infections. In the last months there had been many patients with high fever, respiratory symptoms, sore throat, headache, and fatigue.

When analysing the recent results, the most common cause was influenza A that can be diagnosed with rapid test or PCR. Streptococcal tonsillitis was the second most common, which presents with sore throat and pain when swallowing, is diagnosed with Strep A rapid test, and can be treated with antibiotics. The third most common detected with PCR is bronchitis with RSV and Rhinovirus, in half of the cases these are mixed infection with both viruses which cause more severe infection.

COVID was the fifth most common but often not that severe in kids. Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, Parainfluenza virus and Influenza B and are also detected. The treatment for these viruses is symptomatic with fever medication, expectorant and if needed nebuliser. Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause long term cough, low fever, headache, and fatigue, in addition also affect the immune system with higher risk for secondary viral infections, as for Huong. It can be treated with antibiotics for intracellular bacteria as macrolides, however, some resistance has been detected, so sometimes stronger antibiotic is needed.

Respiratory bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis causing pneumonia and sinusitis can also be diagnosed with PCR. It is however important to take a representative sample of sputum as these bacteria may colonize the nasopharynx without causing disease. Dengue is common during the rainy season/ autumn and can be detected with blood tests.

PCR can also be used to rapidly diagnose other diseases such as gastrointestinal infections where bacteria, viruses and other pathogens causing diarrhea can be detected in stool, enabling that the correct treatment can be provided timely.

After some days of treatment Huong improved, the cough decreased and fever disappeared, she could breathe normally and could go back to school. The parents were satisfied with the result and Huong recovered.

In complicated cases where the symptoms develop and change the patient might be infected with several different pathogens. In some cases, PCR may be needed to find the cause and treat it correctly. At Family Medical Practice we have the capacity for PCR diagnostics of multiple concurrent infections. Family Medical Practice

*Dr Mattias Larsson is a paediatric doctor at Family Medical Practice and associate professor at Karolinska Institutet and has a long experience in research on infectious diseases. He has worked with the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit and the Ministry of Health of Vietnam. He is fluent in English, Swedish, Vietnamese, German and some Spanish.

Visit Family Medical Practice Hanoi 24/7 at 298I P. Kim Ma, Kim Ma Ward, Ba inh Dist.

To book an appointment, please call us at (024).3843.0784 or via Whatsapp, Viber or Zalo on +84.944.43.1919 or email hanoi@vietnammedicalpractice.com.

FMPs downtown location in Ho Chi Minh City is in Diamond Plaza, 34 Le Duan Str, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, and 95 Thao ien Str, District 2. Tel. (028) 3822 7848 or email hcmc@vietnammedicalpractice.com.
HA NOI  The Vietnamese Embassies in the US and Japan have organised gatherings to celebrate the traditional Lunar New Year (Tet) festival.

The event held on January 19 in Washington DC saw the attendance of over 600 guests, including overseas Vietnamese and US friends.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Nguyen Quoc Dung reviewed outstanding achievements in Viet Nams socio-economic development and the Viet Nam - US relations in 2023.

The Ambassador hailed the Vietnamese community's contributions to the countrys achievements and hoped that the community will keep growing, strengthening its solidarity and serving as a bridge that helps foster Viet Nam-US relations.

In a similar event held by the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan on January 21 in Tokyo, Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Pham Quang Hieu sent his sympathies to all Japanese people and the Vietnamese community affected by the earthquake that occurred in Ishikawa prefecture.

He stressed that with the consensus and joint efforts of the entire nation, including overseas Vietnamese, Viet Nam made great achievements in 2023 in spite of numerous difficulties and challenges.

Regarding Viet Nam-Japan relations, the year 2023 was of special significance to the two countries, and they had jointly organised more than 500 activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, the diplomat said. Particularly, on the occasion of the official visit to Japan by President Vo Van Thuong in November 2023, Viet Nam and Japan upgraded their relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World  the highest level in Viet Nams foreign relations.

He said overseas Vietnamese in Japan have made active and effective contributions to the great strides in the relations between the two countries.

Currently, more than 520,000 Vietnamese people are living, working and studying in Japan, making the Vietnamese community the second largest foreign community in Japan. VNA/VNS
BUCHAREST  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse and the Vietnamese delegation visited the Technical University of Civil Engineering of Bucharest (UTCB), where Chinh studied in his youth, on Sunday (local time), as part of his official to Romania.

Speaking in front of officials and lecturers of the university, the PM recalled the Viet Nam-Romania over the past nearly 75 years, highlighting the help that Romania gave Viet Nam during the time of national liberation in the past and national development later.

Most recently, Romania actively worked to push the negotiations and signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. In particular, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Romania provided Viet Nam with 300,000 doses of vaccines.

Viet Nam will never forget the whole-hearted help and close cooperation of Romania over the past nearly 75 years, PM Chinh said.

He affirmed that Viet Nam treasured the traditional friendship and good cooperation with Romania and wanted to enhance the cooperative ties between the two countries, particularly in education-training.

He noted that Romania had so far trained about 4,000 Vietnamese students, with many of them later becoming leading scientists or holding high positions in the Vietnamese Party and State. The PM expressed his hope that Romania would grant more scholarships for Viet Nam.

The UTCB, in particular, trained around 1,000 Vietnamese students in the period from 1970-1980. From 2008 to now, five Vietnamese students have received scholarships under the two Governments agreement to study at the university. The university has signed with the University of Liege of Belgium and Thuy Loi University of Viet Nam a tripartite agreement on cooperation in research and training in civil engineering.

PM Chinh said he hoped the UTCB would further promote cooperation in training and research with Vietnamese partners, contributing to the relations between Viet Nam and Romania.

Visiting the universitys laboratory and the dormitory for international students, PM Chinh recalled the beautiful memories of the time he studied and researched at the university, which he would never forget.

He expressed deep gratitude to generations of teachers and his thanks to friends who had accompanied and helped him a lot at the university.

Meeting with representatives of Romanian friendship organisations

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh received representatives from the Romania  Viet Nam Friendship Association and friendship organisations with Viet Nam in Bucharest on the same day.

The PM expressed his joy to meet with representatives of Romanian friendship associations and friends who made contributions to fostering solidarity, friendship and understanding between the two countries, during his official visit to Romania.

According to the PM, over the past nearly 75 years, generations of Vietnamese and Romanian people have continuously built and nurtured a good traditional friendship, based on mutual understanding and trust, as well as support for mutual development. Viet Nam always remembers Romania's sentiments and valuable support for the country in the past struggle for national independence and reunification as well as in the present national construction and development process.

He said his official visit aimed to strengthen multifaceted cooperation between Viet Nam and Romania, tighten traditional friendship between the two nations, and promote achievements in bilateral ties over the past nearly 75 years, while creating new momentum for the bilateral relations.

During his stay in Romania, he would have talks with the Romanian Prime Minister, and meet with leaders of Romania to discuss measures to boost the Viet Nam - Romania relations. He wished Romanian friends would continue to inspire all Romanians to promote relations between the two countries, contributing to the two countries sustainable development goals.

In recent times, Romanian friendship associations and organisations have actively coordinated with the Vietnamese Embassy and the Vietnamese community to organise many meaningful events marking major holidays of Viet Nam and Romania, and important foreign affairs activities as well as cultural and art programmes, exhibitions and seminars.

At the event, the participants expressed their deep sentiments to Viet Nam, and belief in the Southeast Asian countrys strong development. VNA/VNS
BERLIN/HA NOI  German President Frank-Walter Steinmeiers state visit to Viet Nam, which begins Tuesday, is of great significance for the growing bilateral relations between the two countries, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh and German Ambassador to Viet Nam Guido Hildner.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency ahead of the trip, Ambassador Minh said the strategic partnership between Viet Nam and Germany had developed substantively across multiple aspects in recent times, especially after Prime Minister Olaf Scholzs official visit to Viet Nam in November 2022.

Political trust had been enhanced through meetings at all levels, he said.

The year 2023 alone saw more than 40 working trips to Germany undertaken by deputy ministers, and deputy heads of peoples committees of Vietnamese localities.

Meanwhile, many heads of German states and business leaders paid visits to Viet Nam in 2022 and 2023. Most recently, the Minister-Presidents of Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) and Thuringia visited Viet Nam, with a record number of up to 50-70 businesses taking part in each delegation.

Frameworks implementing economic diplomacy had been strengthened and expanded.

Despite economic difficulties, Germany agreed to grant EUR61 million (US$66.5 million) in non-refundable aid to Viet Nam for the 2024-2025 period.

The two sides held the second session of the Joint Committee for Economic Cooperation. Many Vietnamese businesses resumed promotion activities and attended trade fairs in Germany.

Both sides worked to mitigate challenges in implementing Germanys lighthouse projects in Viet Nam, which are short-term, well-defined and measurable programmes that serve as role models (lighthouses) for similar initiatives.

Germany is Viet Nams largest trading partner in the European Union (EU), while Viet Nam is Germanys largest trading partner in Southeast Asia.

Bilateral trade hit more than $11 billion in 2022 and $17.12 billion as of November 2023, according to data from Viet Nam and the Federal Statistical Office of Germany (Destatis).

As of the end of 2023, there had been 464 valid projects invested by Germany in Viet Nam with a total registered capital of $2.74 billion. Viet Nam invested $283.3 million in 37 projects in Germany.

Minh highlighted that important gains had been recorded in bilateral cooperation in other fields such as green development, energy transition and climate change response.

Germany had continued to support Viet Nam to implement its commitments within the framework of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), and businesses of the two countries had proactively seized cooperation opportunities in this field.

Important results had been recorded in cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges through a series of activities held in both countries localities, which helped promote cultural and mutual understanding.

The Federation of Vietnamese Associations in Germany was established at a congress held in Berlin late last year, aiming to connect and unite all Vietnamese individuals, organisations and associations, while also acting as a bridge to further promote the friendship between the two peoples.

Ambassador Minh said the upcoming visit to Viet Nam by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier would be of great significance as it is his first overseas trip in 2024, and also the first exchange of high-level delegations between the two countries in 2024 - a pivotal year towards the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025.

Notably, he visited Viet Nam in October 2016 in his capacity as Vice Chancellor of Germany, and in March 2008 when he was Foreign Minister of Germany.

During this visit to Viet Nam, he would have the chance to inspect German-invested lighthouse projects signed during his 2008 visit.

During his stay in Viet Nam, President Steinmeier was scheduled to meet with senior Vietnamese leaders to discuss measures to further promote Viet Nam-Germany cooperation in multiple fields, as well as exchange views on regional and international issues of shared concern.

High on the agenda would be economic and trade cooperation between Viet Nam and Germany. President Steinmeier would be accompanied by a group of large German businesses operating in various industries.

According to Ambassador Minh, Viet Nam has become a leading attractive destination for German businesses.

Renewable energy, green transition and sustainable development, manufacturing industry, services, logistics and education are priority areas of cooperation for both sides.

A seminar is expected to take place between businesses accompanying the German president, and German businesses and organisations operating in Viet Nam.

An area of both sides interest is cooperation in vocational training and bringing Vietnamese skilled workers to Germany amidst serious labour shortages in the European country. A Letter of Intent on labour cooperation is expected to be signed on the occasion.

Since 2020, Viet Nam has been defined as a global partner in Germanys 2030 development cooperation strategy.

In an interview granted to the local press prior to President Steinmeiers visit, German Ambassador to Viet Nam Guido Hildner said that economic, trade and investment cooperation had been a key pillar in Viet Nam-Germany relations.

More than 350 German businesses are operating in Viet Nam.

Meanwhile, the Vietnamese community in Germany has nearly 200,000 members, playing an important role in connecting the two countries, according to the German ambassador.

Around 300 Vietnamese nationals are on research scholarships in Germany, and approximately 7,500 Vietnamese students are pursuing their studies at German universities.

Ambassador Hildner also highlighted that Germany hoped to expand cooperation with Viet Nam in politics and economy, viewing the Southeast Asian country as a key partner in maintaining and developing a rules-based international order.

Energy transition and skilled labour were considered highly potential areas for cooperation in the near future, he said.

Germany is among the countries that establish a JETP with Viet Nam.

We want to support Viet Nam in shifting to renewable energies and phasing out fossil fuels, said Hildner.

The German labour market could also offer attractive employment opportunities for Vietnamese nationals, he added.  VNS
BUCHAREST  Romanian Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu chaired a welcome ceremony in Bucharest on Monday morning (local time) for Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, who is in the country for an official visit.

Following the ceremony, the two leaders held talks at the Victoria Palace.

The visit, the first delegation exchange at the prime ministerial level between the two countries in five years, is taking place in the context of good development of the nearly-75-year-old Viet Nam-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 Viet Nam-Romania business forum, receive representatives from the Romania-Viet Nam 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 Viet Nam's development needs such as agriculture, processing and manufacturing, and health care.

Besides, it is expected to strengthen business cooperation and lure investment in potential fields, contributing to boosting the Viet Nam-European Union ties.

Romania was one of the first 10 countries in the world to recognise and establish diplomatic ties with Viet Nam.

While holding the rotating presidency of the EU, Romania worked to push ahead with the negotiation and signing of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the EU-VIet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

The two-way trade hit US$425 million in 2022. As of the end of that year, Romania had five valid projects with total registered capital of $1.56 million, ranking 42nd among the 143 countries and territories investing in Viet Nam.  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Monday for Governor of Fukuoka prefecture Hattori Seitaro, the first leader of a Japanese prefecture to visit Viet Nam this year.

President Thuong said the visit contributed to further deepening the Comprehensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia and the world between Viet Nam and Japan.

Commending the fruitful collaboration between Ha Noi and Fukuoka, he expressed his hope for the continued development of new and more effective cooperation programmes during the visit.

The President suggested the Governor facilitate people-to-people exchanges between Viet Nam and Japan, and specifically between Ha Noi and Fukuoka, especially holiday tourism for Japanese students to visit Viet Nam and vice versa.

In addition to encouraging Japanese businesses and those from Fukuoka to expand their operations in Viet Nam, he emphasised the importance of partnership with Vietnamese firms, especially in the areas of their strength such as highly skilled workforce training.

The President wished that leaders of Fukuoka would continue providing the best conditions for Vietnamese people and welcoming more Vietnamese to the country for study and working in the near future.

The Governor, for his part, said Fukuoka and Ha Noi would continue discussing and launching new cooperation programmes during his visit.

Alongside friendly cooperation activities, Fukuoka has focused on people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, especially fostering exchanges with Vietnamese who are studying and living in the prefecture, he said.

Expressing his desire to further enhance cooperation and exchange activities across various fields between Fukuoka and Ha Noi, he looked forward to receiving support from the President in this endeavor.  VNS
BINH DUONG  The southern province of Binh Duong wants to develop the friendship and cooperation with Siheung city of the Republic of Koreas Gyeonggi province so as to bolster socio-economic development in each locality, contributing to national and regional prosperity, Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Vo Van Minh said on January 22.

Hosting a reception for a delegation from Siheung city led by Mayor Lim Byeong Taek, Minh briefed the guests on the provinces socio-economic development during the renewal process, including foreign investors registration of US$40 billion in more than 4,000 projects.

Over the past time, the province has paid heed to expanding economic development cooperation with many countries, territories and cities across the globe, he said, adding Binh Duong has set up bilateral ties with 13 cities and provinces, including Daejeon city. The provinces Thu Dau Mot city will sign a cooperation deal with Siheung city in the coming time.

Lim Byeong Taek, for his part, spoke highly of the close collaboration between Binh Duong and Korean localities, laying stress on the Vietnamese provinces support for Korean enterprises over years.

He said Siheung will ink a cooperation agreement with Thu Dau Mot city across several socio-economic areas.

With $3.3 billion funneled into 763 projects, the RoK currently ranks 5th among 65 countries and territories landing investment in Binh Duong province. The investment capital is injected into the fields of automobile supporting industry, health care, pharmaceuticals, food processing, garment and textile, footwear, among others.

Leaders of the province have pledged to accompany Korean enterprises, remove bottlenecks and create favourable conditions for them to operate effectively in the locality. VNS
THANH HOA  Nguyen Duy Thoa is very pleased when locals give him the nickname 'the daring one'.

While some people have abandoned rice cultivation, Thoa in Truong Son Commune, Nong Cong District, Thanh Hoa Province, enthusiastically rents land to grow rice.

"What is difficult, what others won't do, I will do," Thoa told Nong Nghiep Viet Nam (Viet Nam Agriculture) newspaper.

After many nights of contemplation, he decided to lease the fields of local villagers to establish large-scale rice fields.

He and the local authorities spent years persuading residents to lease him land, and finally he gained the use of 5.4ha of land.

He doesn't remember how much money and effort he poured into this project, including land levelling, embankment, soil improvement and irrigation.

He lost weight while tirelessly pursuing the work for this project.

Thoa has never dared to wear a white-collar shirt because he is busy all day in the paddy fields. His fields are the largest in Truong Son Commune, so it takes a lot of effort to manage.

Last year, he harvested about 1,500 tonnes of rice.

This year, he plans to expand the cultivation area when rice prices are favourable.

The cultivation of rice is now not as hard, with the help of machinery and hired labour.

"People can't do it without machinery. Instead of working hard all day, the machine can finish the job in just a few minutes," Thoa said.

Seeing his success at farming, local people continue to rent the fields to him.

Unable to handle all the work alone, he came up with the idea of signing production contracts with households, purchasing rice seedlings from locals and from outside the province.

"Local people all have experience in farming, but what's crucial is to have someone organise the production. In the past, most households worked individually, relying simply on their personal strength, Thoa said.

"The farmers have to invest a lot of effort but do not achieve high profits when prices fluctuate unpredictably. With a large paddy field, I opt for a comprehensive lease, covering everything from planting to harvesting. In this way, the costs are significantly reduced compared to individual household cultivation.

At present, he takes on the responsibility of marketing for the locals, along with managing the supply of agricultural inputs and renting machinery for sowing and harvesting several hundred hectares of fields within and outside the province.

This helps ease the burden of labour for locals and provides them with peace of mind.

"The farmers also don't have to worry about selling rice because the rice is contracted by four businesses in the North, ensuring a relatively stable price," said Thoa.

Big idea

Leveraging the superior quality of Vietnamese rice, on par with or even surpassing that of countries with similar conditions and cultivation methods, Nguyen Van Tan, a former mechanical engineering student from Ha Noi University of Science and Technology, made a remarkable decision.

He gave up his career prospects to return to agriculture.

In Tan's view, if rice production remains fragmented and small-scale, the products will stop at self-sufficiency, never developing market exposure or a recognisable brand.

Realising this, he invested in a rice processing factory in 2018, located in the Tay Bac Ga Industrial zone, Valued at VN4 billion (US$162,000).

"Rice without a brand poses a significant risk due to market fluctuations. However, if rice products establish both quality and a reputable brand, market dynamics become both a challenge and an opportunity, especially for branded products with region-specific codes, meeting stringent food safety conditions and offering clear origin traceability," Tan said.

The businessman received attention and support from provincial leaders, the agriculture sector, and local authorities.

He engaged in planning a safe and high-quality cultivation area, aiming to establish cultivation area codes, create a large raw material zone for the processing plant, and focus on exports.

"Providing raw products alone is not sufficient. At least, rice must have a brand and clear origin that consumers can trust. When Vietnamese rice has a brand name and a stable market, there is no worry about price fluctuation due to bumper crops."

After years of hard work and efforts, Tan has expanded the raw material area in Trieu Son, Nong Cong and Hau Loc districts, Thanh Hoa City.

As the business owner, he provides fertiliser, seeds and technical support for cultivation, harvesting and market access to local farmers through cooperatives and large-scale agricultural producers. In 2022, the company was granted a cultivation area code for the concentrated cultivation area of ST25 rice variety and glutinous rice in Thieu Duong and Thieu Van communes, covering an area of 70ha.

"The issuance of cultivation area codes is crucial to ensuring the safety, quality and export orientation of products. The cultivation area code is an important condition for creating sustainable value in agriculture in general, and for the rice brand in particular."

Currently, Tan sells about 3,000-4,000 tonnes of rice annually, with revenue of around VN40-50 billion.

His products are consumed mainly in the northern market.

"The value chain linkage in agricultural production plays a crucial role in strengthening links between farmers, State, businesses, banks, scientists and distributors. When participating in production linkage, farmers have a more proactive approach to the market, changing their perspectives on production, business and collaboration," said Cao Van Cuong, director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

"This allows them to effectively utilise land resources, labour, production experience, business expertise and their strengths. The government supports them with training in production techniques and business plans."  VNS
HA NOI  Over the 20 years since its development, the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange (VAVA) has obtained remarkable achievements in the effort to support victims.

From 1961 to 1971, the US army sprayed more than 80 million litres of herbicides over southern Viet Nam, 44 million litres of which was AO containing nearly 370kg of dioxin.

As a result, around 4.8 million Vietnamese were exposed to the toxic chemical, and more than 3 million became victims. Hundreds of thousands of people have died while a roughly similar number of others are struggling with deformities and fatal diseases. In particular, the impact of AO/dioxin has lingered on for generations, even to the present fourth generation.

In the face of the need for settling toxic chemical consequences, healing war wounds, and fighting for justice for AO victims, VAVA was officially established on January 10, 2004.

Reviewing its performance over the last 20 years, VAVA said it has exerted efforts to weather numerous difficulties and fulfil the tasks assigned by the Party and State, with a focus on caring for, assisting, and fighting for justice for AO/dioxin victims of Viet Nam.

Apart from its Central Committee, the association is now present in all the 63 centrally-run cities and provinces with over 400,000 members nationwide. The fund for AO/dioxin victims has been set up at the central level and in 40 of the 63 provincial-level localities, not to mention those in 108 districts and the voluntary ones in nearly 550 communes, wards, and townships.

From the time of its inception to November 2023, VAVA has raised more than VN4.236 trillion (US$172.9 million) both in cash and in kind for assisting victims by setting up social protection centres, building and repairing houses, presenting gifts and financial aid, granting scholarships, giving health check-ups and treatment, providing vocational training and helping them seek jobs.

Communications in various forms have been boosted. The associations emulation movement named For the AO victims of Viet Nam has been implemented on a large scale and connected with a similar campaign launched by the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Central Committee, thus yielding fruitful results, VAVA reported.

In addition, the struggle for justice for AO/dioxin victims has been persistently promoted in conformity with the Party and States viewpoint, guideline, and foreign policy, thus helping improve the US Congress and Governments awareness of the issue and their sense of responsibility towards the cooperation with Viet Nam in the environmental remediation of dioxin contamination at a Nang airport in central a Nang City and Bien Hoa Airbase in southern ong Nai Province.

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has also carried out a project to assist the disabled, including AO/dioxin victims, in the provinces hit hard by toxic chemicals, along with some other projects benefiting victims.

To support Tran To Nga, a Vietnamese French victim of AO, in her lawsuit against the US firms manufacturing the toxic chemical used by the US army during the war in Viet Nam, VAVA has worked closely with French lawyers and raised resources to help her. It also issued a statement of support for the lawsuit and sent an open letter to domestic and international organisations to call for their objection to the courts first-instance judgment and assist Nga to sue the US firms at the appeal court in Paris, VAVA noted.

Sen. Lt. Gen. Nguyen Van Rinh, VAVA Chairman in the fourth tenure (2018 - 2023), stated that settling consequences of the toxic chemicals used by the US during wartime is the conscience and responsibility towards those devoting their lives to the Fatherlands independence and freedom.

It is a social and humanitarian issue regarding the compatriots residing in AO-hit areas. Caring for, assisting, and fighting for justice of AO victims form an urgent need and hold great political, economic, social, and diplomatic significance.

The establishment of VAVA reflected the Party and States attention to the AO issue and also met the aspirations of the people, especially the millions of AO/dioxin victims in Viet Nam, he said.

Lt. Gen. Nguyen Huu Chinh, VAVA Chairman in the fifth tenure (2023 - 2028), affirmed that VAVA Executive Committee will stay united to bring into play experiences gained during previous tenures, work to mobilise more domestic and international resources for the work, and step up the care for and improvement of AO victims fulfilling the tasks assigned by the Party and State. VNS
HA NOI  In 30 years of blood donation movement, Viet Nam has had more than 21.3 million donors with tens of thousands of people donating blood 30 - 50 times, even 170 times.

In 2023, Viet Nam received more than 1.5 million blood units and the countrys rate of voluntary blood donation has reached 99 per cent.

A ceremony was held to celebrate the 30th anniversary of launching the humanitarian blood donation movement in Viet Nam (January 24, 1994 - January 24, 2024) in Ha Noi on January 20.

Speaking at the event, Associate Professor, Director of the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (NIHBT) Nguyen Ha Thanh said that the past 30 years had truly been a "revolution" that has changed the perception of millions of people about voluntary blood donation.

Voluntary blood donation activities have become a movement with widespread influence, attracting and receiving the attention of the entire society.

If in the past, the main force of blood donors was young people and students, now the force of blood donors is expanding to all sectors of society regardless of age, gender, profession, ethnicity or religion, said Thanh.

In the period before 1994, Viet Nam only received about 100,000 units of blood yearly, of which the voluntary blood donation rate was less than 10 per cent.

However, in 1994, the first year Viet Nam launched the humanitarian blood donation movement, the amount of blood received by the whole country increased much more than in previous years, with 138,000 blood units, the voluntary blood donation rate reached 14.5 per cent, according to Thanh.

Since 2014, each year the country has received over 1 million units of blood. The amount of blood received in 2023 is 11 times higher than in 1994, and the voluntary blood donation rate has now reached 99 per cent. In addition, the whole country has established five regional blood transfusion centres, thereby improving efficiency in blood reception, screening tests and preparation of blood products and the quality of treatment for hospitals, said Thanh.

At the event, Health Minister ao Hong Lan praised the great contributions of the National Steering Committee for Voluntary Blood Donation Campaign, the National Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion and the cooperation of the entire political and social system, especially the joint efforts of many people from all walks of life throughout the country to voluntary blood donation activities.

Lan suggested humanitarian blood donation movement should focus on developing solutions to maintain and develop a more stable and sustainable source of voluntary blood donors, ensuring a safe blood source and quality treatment for patients from the central line to localities, including remote areas, border areas, and islands.

Lan said: Priorities should be given to continue to improve the quality of communication, mobilisation and organisation of blood donation and promote the mobilisation of repeat blood donors, regular blood donors, and blood donors with a volume of 350ml or more.

In addition, Minister Lan requested medical facilities to apply digital transformation in health care to manage blood donors and blood units; connect information and build a unified blood donor database between localities, blood centres and hospitals nationwide.  VNS
A U.S. surveillance aircraft flew over South Korea on Monday, aviation trackers showed, on an apparent mission to monitor North Korea following its claimed test of an underwater nuclear attack drone.

The U.S. Air Force's RC-135W Rivet Joint was spotted in skies above the city of Incheon, just west of Seoul, and the adjacent Gyeonggi Province, Gangwon Province as well as the eastern and western coasts, according to multiple flight trackers.

The RC-135V was dispatched three days after North Korea claimed it tested an underwater nuclear attack drone, Haeil-5-23, in the East Sea in response to the latest joint naval drills involving South Korea, the U.S. and Japan last week.

The U.S. deployment of the advanced spy aircraft is part of its regular intelligence-gathering operations, but its exposing extensive flight routes may be aimed at sending a message of pressure to the North, according to sources.

It is the third known flight this year following two previous ones on Jan. 4 and 17, whose flights were spotted only in inland airspace.

South Korea and the U.S. have stepped up monitoring to detect possible signs of Pyongyang's provocations as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for stronger war readiness against "unprecedented" acts of U.S.-led confrontations. (Yonhap)
HOA BINH  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang has asked Hoa Binh northern province to quickly deploy infrastructure projects, especially the Hoa Binh-Moc Chau Expressway and the Luong Son-Kim Boi Road.

He made the statement on Monday in a conference announcing Hoa Binh Provinces planning for 2021-30 period, with vision to 2050.

He also asked the province to well implement national target programmes, take care of ethnic groups, and train workers with strong ethics and knowledge.

In planning work, the Deputy PM noted that Hoa Binh must always comply with assigned directions and solutions to achieve the set goals, and be flexible in organising and implementing tasks.

He affirmed that the provinces potential, advantages and abundant resources were the prerequisites for its breakthrough to enter a new period of development.

Hoa Binh Province's planning was developed consistently with the socio-economic planning and strategy of the region and the whole country.

This is a necessary tool to manage and operate all sectors and fields, as well as effectively use the province's resources.

The planning demonstrates new thinking and vision to create opportunities, new motivation and new values for the province.

Chairman of the Hoa Binh Province People's Committee Bui Van Khanh pledged to make more efforts and innovation.

The province would firmly apply policies in instruction, improve public service ethics, and focus on the peoples benefits, happiness and satisfaction.

Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Phi Long emphasised that the planning had a particularly important role.

It generalises the vision, viewpoints, goals and orientations of the province, according to Long.

It is also an important legal basis for arranging territorial space, allocating resources, attracting investment, and maximising potential and strengths of Hoa Binh.

On this occasion, Deputy PM Quang gave VN1 billion (US$40,500) to support the provincial fund for the poor, and 644 gifts to families with outstanding contribution to the nation, poor households, ethnic people and prestigious people in the province.

Care for Tet

General Luong Cuong, member of the Politburo, permanent member of the Central Military Commission, and head of the General Political Department of the Viet Nam People's Army, on Monday visited and gave Tet gifts to officers and soldiers of the Thanh Thuy Border Guard Station, Ha Giang northern mountainous province.

Cuong highly appreciated the border guard station for closely following the leadership and direction of the Party and the State in managing and protecting territorial sovereignty and national border security.

The stations officers and soldiers are always united, creative, highly determined to overcome all difficulties and challenges, and successfully complete all assigned tasks. They have contributed to building a border of peace, friendship, cooperation and development.

To successfully complete the mission this year, Cuong asked the unit to maintain security and order and effectively fight all types of crime, especially drug crimes, smuggling, trade fraud and illegal immigration.

The station should coordinate with local authorities to take care of Tet for poor households and ethnic groups, to be a truly solid support for the people in border areas, building a border of peace, friendship, cooperation and development.  VNS
HA NOI  French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet has suggested the two countries enhance ties in medical research, saying health care is among outstanding pillars of bilateral cooperation.

He made the remarks while addressing a workshop held in Ha Noi on January 22 to discuss how to improve the management of chronic diseases in Vietnam.

Brochet said chronic diseases are among global concerns, and the two countries should work together to seek long-term solutions to this issue.

Amid economic development, peoples improved living conditions and better health services, new health challenges have also emerged. Such chronic diseases as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses have been on the rise, requiring France and Viet Nam further boost cooperation in this field since the health problems strongly affect peoples life, he went on.

Describing health care as one of outstanding pillars of bilateral cooperation, the ambassador elaborated that more than 3,000 Vietnamese doctors have received training in France while many joint research projects have been carried out.

He considered the workshop, held by the French Embassy, the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Viet Nam and Vietnam Social Security (VSS), as a demonstration of the common determination to further strengthen ties in health care, including sharing experience in and devising better policies on the prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of chronic diseases.

The diplomat called on the two sides to reinforce partnerships in researching new pharmaceuticals, therapies, and treatment approaches, adding that his embassy will assist French businesses to bolster ties with partners in Vietnam.

In his speech, VSS Deputy General Director Nguyen uc Hoa noted the Vietnamese Government has increased investment in grassroots health care, including the prevention, management, and treatment of non-communicable diseases.

The health insurance coverage has been expanded, from 47 per cent of the population in 2008 to 93.35 per cent in 2023, towards the goal of full coverage. The health insurance fund has an increasingly important role to play in healthcare spending, he said.

However, the official also pointed out certain challenges, including unchanged levels of insurance premiums since 2009, continually increased benefits for insurance contributors, rising expenses of insurance-covered medical services, fast population aging, growing non-communicable diseases, and mounting costs for chronic disease treatment.

Given this, learning international experience in building health insurance policies is always a priority of VSS, Hoa added.

At the workshop, participants shared other countries experience in chronic disease management. They also suggested policies on the management of those diseases and the health insurance fund. VNS
The ACCAs latest report, Calculated Risks: An introduction to finance professionals role in understanding risk and building resilience in the public sector, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by the public sector, drawing from a comprehensive survey of over 400 professionals globally.

The ACCAs survey findings provide valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges encountered by public sector organisations. The guide emphasises the significance of clear objectives and a robust risk management process. Finance professionals, with their unique skill set, take centre stage in recognising and addressing risks in the public sector. By leveraging core skills and adopting innovative approaches, they contribute significantly to building resilience.

To Quoc Hung, country manager of ACCA Vietnam, underscored the transformative role of finance professionals.

Amid the waves of economic uncertainties, finance professionals stand as architects of resilience, crafting a foundation that fortifies the public sector against the tempest of challenges, he said.

It is not merely about managing numbers; it's about orchestrating financial strategies that safeguard the foundations of our public institutions, ensuring they withstand the unpredictable tides of the global economy.

Navigating the risk universe

Public sector risk management is essential for ensuring efficient governance and sustainable public service delivery, particularly in the current dynamic global environment filled with uncertainties. The process involves systematically comprehending the risk universe, prioritising risks, and implementing strategies for response, reporting, and monitoring. Financial pressures are a prevalent risk, consistently highlighted in the ACCAs survey as the foremost challenge faced by public sector organisations.

The term risk universe encapsulates all potential risks faced by an organisation, with financial challenges universally acknowledged by professionals in the public sector. The Office of the Accountant-Generals Risk Management Support Unit in South Africa offers a systematic framework for risk identification, emphasising internal and external factors. Categorising risks into internal and external, and focusing on strategic risks, helps organisations manage these complexities effectively.

Each public sector organisation faces its own unique set of risks

Organisations must adapt to evolving circumstances, anticipate potential risks, and develop robust strategies to withstand and recover from disruptions. Resilience involves not only fortifying structures and systems but also fostering a proactive mindset, agile decision-making, and the ability to learn and innovate in response to shifting dynamics.

To build resilience in a volatile world, the focus lies on upskilling finance teams and prioritising technology, governance structures, risk assessments, and data quality. The ACCA's survey underscores that strengthening staff's risk management skills is crucial, with a significant emphasis on technology investment for robust contingency plans.

Clear leadership, aligned risk communication, and robust governance structures are highlighted as essential elements, emphasising the need for proactive risk management strategies. Additionally, risk assessments prioritising high-impact threats, strengthening data quality, and integrating financial professionals into the core of the risk management process are crucial steps for enhancing resilience in the public sector.

Embracing good risk culture

Hung emphasised behaviours associated with a good risk culture, including demonstrating a positive attitude towards the management of risk, considering risk in every business decision before it is made, strong and open communication channels, responsibility for risks and controls, honesty, and clear ownership of risk, as well as encouraging and educating others in the management of risk.

The ACCAs report additionally outlines the Four Ts of risk management  tolerate, treat, transfer, or terminate  a widely employed approach in the public sector. These responses provide a framework for organisations to address risks carefully, considering legal responsibilities, value for money, and the unique nature of public accountability.

While transferring or terminating risks may seem appealing, the public sector's obligation to retain control and fulfill statutory responsibilities often makes treating risks a more pragmatic choice. The decision-making process involves weighing the cost, feasibility, and potential drawbacks associated with each response, with clear documentation necessary for understanding, monitoring, and reviewing the chosen approach for each risk.

The Four Ts of risk

But more than any other response to emerging risks, there is a compelling call for enhanced preparedness and resilience, positioning finance professionals at the forefront of this crucial endeavour. As custodians of financial expertise and strategic acumen, finance professionals play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of the evolving norm. Their ability to analyse, strategise, and implement robust risk management frameworks becomes paramount in fortifying public sector entities against potential disruptions.

The ACCA's conclusive report on assessing, responding to, reporting, and monitoring risks in the public sector not only sheds light on the pervasive challenges faced by organisations but also serves as a strategic guide for resilience-building. The document not only accentuates the indispensable role of finance professionals in navigating uncertainties but also advocates for heightened preparedness and adaptability.

An accounting vision for a better world On the occasion of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants 20th anniversary in Vietnam, chief executive Helen Brand discussed the role of professional accountants in the modern setting and the organisations strategic initiatives in the country with VIRs Linh Le.

ACCA Vietnam New Member Ceremony 2023: Shaping a brighter financial future The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) held its 2023 New Member Ceremony with the theme Shaping the Future for A Better World in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi on October 19-20.
CPV Food, Binh Phuoc

We have a close partnership with the Vietnamese government and have received substantial support in obtaining export licences. We are currently liaising with agencies to secure export licences for South Korea and the UK, which we anticipate to receive in the third quarter of this year, said Wirat Wongpornpakdee, senior vice president of New Business and Food Business at CPV.

Halal certification was awarded to CPV Food Binh Phuoc in 2022, meaning CPV is now poised to broaden its exports' horizon to Muslim markets, which comprise approximately 15 per cent of the worlds population. This marks a significant expansion opportunity for the company.

Parent company C.P. Group has implemented the closed 3F model, 'Feed  Farm  Food', in numerous countries, but it views Vietnam as crucial due to the country's significant potential. The company invested a substantial $250 million in the CPV Food factory in Binh Phuoc, which began operation in late 2020. The investment enables the execution of the closed breeding and production model in Vietnam.

Last year was a landmark year for the Binh Phuoc factory, with export volumes tripling compared to 2021 and exports reaching Japan, Hong Kong, Laos, and Cambodia. Binh Phuoc has set ambitious targets for 2024 and beyond. It plans to increase its annual export value to $200 million by penetrating more demanding markets such as Europe, the US, and the Middle East.

CPV Binh Phuoc operates an automatic system that can produce 20,000 tonnes of animal feed per month with a minimal workforce of under 40 individuals. The plant employs advanced technology to ensure the products are of the highest quality.

Moreover, the animal feed is produced from meticulously chosen ingredients and production formulas. The high-quality animal feed is then distributed to farms that raise superior breeds that are continually enhanced and developed. These farms also apply a closed system with a high-tech management structure and a biosecurity system in place to prevent disease. Once the livestock has reached the required age, size, and quality, they are then transported to the food processing factory.

CPV staff check the quality of each product before breading

CPV has made significant investments to produce food products that cater to the needs of both the domestic and export markets. We are extremely proud because we have been able to show the quality of Vietnamese produce to foreign markets. Our partners now carry numerous products labelled, 'Made in Vietnam', Wongpornpakdee said.

In addition to its international exports, Wongpornpakdee explained CPV is focusing on cultivating the domestic market, recognising its immense potential even when compared to export markets.

Our business plan is centred around enhancing quality standards to earn the trust of Vietnamese consumers. We aim to provide clear and transparent information about our products, processes, and standards. As such, we are investing in technology and human resources to ensure that C.P. is fully integrated into Vietnam, he said.

Today's Vietnamese consumers are more informed about food hygiene and safety

After more than 30 years of operating in the Vietnamese market, CPV has observed a significant shift in Vietnamese preferences for consumer foods.

Wongpornpakdee said, Vietnamese consumers are becoming increasingly more informed about food hygiene and safety through various media and manufacturers, leading them to prioritise quality products that meet hygiene and safety standards. This ensures optimal health for themselves and their families while providing meals that are tasty, safe, and nutritious.

CPV's 3F closed value chain business model signifies these efforts to enhance the production standards of safe and hygienic foods and reflects the company's understanding of consumer needs, particularly among the younger generation.

This is the driving force for us to develop more new products, added Wongpornpakdee.

C.P. Vietnam maintains position of top-ranking food producer C.P. Vietnam has retained its leading position as a producer of fresh and frozen food in the Top 10 Food Reputation Award 2023.

C.P. Vietnam supports Sustainable Food Forum 2023 C.P. Vietnam Corporation was a prominent participant at the Sustainable Food Forum and the Ceremony Honouring Initiatives and Efforts in Sustainable Food Development, an event dedicated to fostering sustainable transformation within the food industry.

C.P. Vietnam carrying the torch for sustainable manufacturing enterprises C.P. Vietnam has been named among the top 100 most sustainable manufacturing companies in the country.
According to a disclosure by FMO on January 18, the proposed transactions should strengthen climate adaptation and resiliency of shrimp farmers and sequester carbon through increasing mangrove coverage.

It should also help create jobs, strengthen food production and security, improve farmers' livelihoods. Camimex vision aligns with FMOs in promoting sustainable aquaculture in Vietnam.

The $15 million facility is aimed to finance expansionary capex to construct a new processing factory (6,000 hectares), including cold storage and fast freezing systems, as well as constructing new organic hatcheries. It will also provide working capital required for certifications and purchasing of organic shrimp.

The capex forms part of a larger plan to improve the incomes of 7,200 smallholder farmers through organic certifications and supplying organic certified shrimp postlarvae, promoting the sustainable management of up to 16,300ha of wetlands by promoting sustainable Silva-aquaculture practices, which includes mangrove cover expansion.

Camimex is one of Vietnams leading processors and exporters of conventional and premium organic shrimps. Established in 1977 in the Ca Mau province of the Mekong Delta, the company processes seafood, mainly shrimps, at three processing factories, with an annual capacity of 15,000 tonnes.

The company sources organic shrimp from over 1,200 smallholder farmers across 6,300ha of integrated mangrove farms. Camimex employs about 1,100 people directly.

Founded in 1970, FMO is a public-private development bank. We have investments in more than 85 countries, offering private sector companies and financial institutions in developing countries various financial products, as well as expertise and access to our networks.

Last November, FMO approved a $90-million credit package for Loc Troi Group, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Vietnam

Loc Troi and FMO sign $90-million credit package to advance sustainable rice production On November 2, Loc Troi Group JSC (LTG) announced the signing of a Letter of Intent for a $90-million credit package between LTG and the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO).

FMO to provide $90-million credit package to Loc Troi Group Seeing huge potential in Loc Troi Group's sustainable practices and advanced agricultural expertise, the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank (FMO) is supporting the company with a credit package worth $90 million.
Dr Kambiz Ghawami, President of the World University Service of Germany, grants an interview to the Vietnam News Agency. (Photo: VNA)

Berlin  The upcoming state visit to Vietnam by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will enhance overall cooperation, including in education  a key factor of prosperity in each country, said Dr Kambiz Ghawami, President of the World University Service of Germany.

Talking to the Vietnam News Agency ahead of the visit on January 23 - 24, Ghawami said the two countries boast long-standing cooperation in higher education which has grown well for many decades.

Over the last 10 years, the number of Vietnamese students in Germany has risen from 2,717 in 2013 to 7,600 at present, not including thousands of other Vietnamese holding German passports. Besides, there are nearly 3,000 students at the Vietnamese - German University (VGU) in Ho Chi Minh City.

Meanwhile, the number of German students in Vietnam remains limited, less than 50 each year. Therefore, more information and incentives are needed to turn Vietnam into an attractive education destination, he pointed out.

An advantage is that the VGU has frequently received German students coming from its partner universities in Vietnam as part of training cooperation programmes. Such programmes are the key to increasing German students at Vietnamese universities, giving them opportunities to learn about the Vietnamese people and culture, he noted.

Ghawami considered the VGU, founded in 2008, as an important contributor to the modernisation of Vietnamese universities, helping enhance the countrys scientific competitiveness in the world.

The scholar cited Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who joined in the signing of the declaration on the VGU establishment in 2008 as Federal Foreign Minister of Germany, as saying that the VGU is a future-oriented cooperation project helping draw younger generations attention to bilateral ties.

Ghawami said the VGU is like a lighthouse project. Since its inception, it has been striving to serve as a special bridge linking Vietnam and Germany, and to establish itself as a leading research university in Southeast Asia. The VGU and partner universities are working on common projects of national, regional, and global importance.

Stressing the importance of President Steinmeiers visit to educational cooperation, he held that the two countries share many similarities and have reinforced ties in education for decades. They should invest more in education, which is critical to national prosperity.

Germany is famous for techniques while Vietnam for creativity. The combination of their strengths in education, research, and innovation will benefit both sides, according to Ghawami.

German Suedwolle Group's new $27 million textile plant in Ninh Thuan Thanks to its strategic location and attractive price, Du Long Industrial Park, situated in the southern province of Ninh Thuan, is attracting foreign investors looking for a prime location to establish their operations.

German business delegation looks for investment opportunities in Phu Tho Premier of the German state of Thuringen made an official visit and working session with Phu Tho Peoples Committee, raising issues about cooperation and investment.

German investors continue to bet on the Vietnamese market Vietnam has emerged as a potential investment destination for German companies, who are increasing their presence in the country.
Indonesias rice output in January and February is estimated to fall 46.3 per cent from the same period a year ago as an El Nino weather pattern hits harvests. (Source: antaranews.com)

Jakarta - Indonesia's state purchasing agency Bulog has issued an international tender to buy 500,000 tonnes of rice sought for arrival in February and March, with the offer deadline set at January 29.

As reported by The Straits Times, accepted origins are Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Pakistan, India and China.

In December last year, the country ordered its army to help farmers plant rice after severe drought reduced output, lifting prices and threatening food security.

Indonesias rice output in January and February is estimated to fall 46.3 per cent from the same period a year ago as an El Nino weather pattern hits harvests.

Vietnam, Indonesia eye cooperation in EV development, food security, manpower Indonesian Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has invited Vietnam to cooperate in the development of several sectors, including the electric vehicle (EV) industry, green industry, food security, research and development, and human resources.

VinFast and GSM announce $2.1 billion investment for Indonesia VinFast and Green and Smart Mobility Corporation (GSM) have forged a groundbreaking alliance with GoTo Gojek Tokopedia of Indonesia.
The event, jointly organised with BSI Vietnam and Arup Vietnam, took place in Ho Chi Minh City with the participation of over 30 businesses in the cement, concrete, additives, and related industries.

Speakers advised attendees on how to identify greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within organisational boundaries, the process of conducting GHG audits, and how to shape appropriate action strategies for emissions reduction.

Given Vietnam's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, participating businesses recognise the importance of emission reduction management.

Nguyen Le Thi, head of Build Environment at BSI Vietnam said, "Evaluating green projects is based on factors such as energy usage, natural ventilation, water saving, and the use of recycled materials, along with quantifying carbon emissions, which is an opportunity for pioneers in the use of low-carbon concrete."

INSEE representatives also shared a wealth of practical experiences and sustainable development solutions that it has applied since its early days of operation in Vietnam. This is especially true in the context of identifying GHG emissions.

Nguyen Le Thi, head of Built Environment at BSI Vietnam, shared the roadmap and application of low-carbon concrete in the UK, while Pham Thanh Tu, marketing manager at INSEE Vietnam discussed INSEE Talks' vision for the future.

Eamon John Ginley, general director of INSEE Vietnam said, We are striving to decarbonise our footprint across all our operations by utilising alternative fuels and raw materials, as well as minimising biodiversity impacts and ensuring sufficient water management at all of our sites.

"With all the advances we have achieved in our sustainable development journey so far, we are now turning our attention to defining our future-fitting business model to ensure success and secure a stake in untapped value pools, he added.

As a pioneering company in green production, INSEE Cement is currently implementing several effective solutions to meet a minimum 24 per cent reduction in GHG emissions per ton of cement produced. This reduction is achieved through maximum control of waste and emissions.

Pham Thanh Tu, marketing manager at INSEE Vietnam, said, "INSEE's goal is to guide businesses towards a green future in the cement and concrete industry. INSEE Talks is an open forum and a space for businesses to share, collaborate, and build a green future together.

INSEE Cement is the first cement production company in Southeast Asia to receive international Environmental Product Declaration certification, helping its product portfolio meet all of its current green construction standards.

INSEE i2i is an initiative by the INSEE Group aimed at creating an interactive innovation platform equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, innovative solutions, and a team of professional technicians to deliver value to customers, the community, and the group's partners.

INSEE Vietnam focuses on social responsibility strategy As a long-term investor in Vietnam, the sustainable development of local communities is a consistent strategy of INSEE to actualise its Build for Life philosophy.

INSEE wins 2023 HR Excellence Award Enterprise Vocational Education (EVE), developed by INSEE Vietnam, has won the 2023 HR Excellence Award in the category of Training and Developing.
On January 19, a memo was sent to Medical Saigon Groups staff by Le Huy Duc, CEO of Medical Saigon Group. However, the memo didn't disclose the financial details of the deal.

According to the memo seen by Reuters, KKR will take over as Medical Saigon Group's largest shareholder from Singapore's investment firm Heliconia Capital, a wholly owned unit of Singapore's state investment firm Temasek Holdings. Heliconia acquired Medical Saigon Group in 2019.

"KKR will step into the shoes of Heliconia to become our largest shareholder. Heliconia will transition out of MSG after a very successful partnership together," Duc said.

"With KKRs investment and partnership, we will be able to accelerate our growth to reach more patients, deliver better patient outcomes, and expand our footprint across Vietnam. The board hopes to be able to accelerate our growth to reach more patients, deliver better patient outcomes, and expand our footprint across Vietnam with KKR's investment."

Medical Saigon Group was founded in 2004 by ophthalmologist Dr. Thai Thanh Nam. It started with a facility on Le Thi Rieng street, touted as Vietnam's first non-public eye hospital to employ advanced techniques and offer international standard medical quality at that time.

The Saigon Eye brand has since expanded to various locations, including Hanoi, Nha Trang, Ha Tinh, Can Tho, and Vinh. Today, Medical Saigon Group is one of the largest hospital chains in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, KKR manages multiple alternative asset classes, including private equity, energy, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and through its strategic partners, hedge funds. It is currently one of the worlds largest private investment funds. From 2011 onwards, the fund has invested over $1 billion in prominent Vietnamese companies, including major transactions with Masan and Vingroup.

EQuest acquires controlling stake in Khoi Nguyen Education KKR-backed EQuest Education Group has acquired a controlling stake in Khoi Nguyen Education Group (KNE), the owner of four international schools in Ho Chi Minh City. A strategic cooperation agreement was signed under which EQuest became the key shareholder and joined the Board of Directors of KNE on December 2.

KKR in talks to purchase Saigon Medical Group US global investment firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.(KKR) is currently in discussion with Singaporean investment fund Heliconia Capital regarding the acquistion of the Medical Saigon Group (MSG).
In early January, Vietnams National Innovation Centre (NIC) and Japans MUFG entities consisting of MUFG Bank, MUFG Innovation Partners, Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri), and Krungsri Finnovate signed an MoU pledging to work together to nurture and promote Vietnams innovation and startup ecosystem.

Startups of various sizes will benefit from the partnership between MUFG and Vietnams National Innovation Centre

Under the MoU, the organisations will collaborate on an array of promotion activities such as business matching fairs and investment and knowledge exchange seminars. This agreement will allow all parties to unveil a promising and exciting roadmap for startups to grow in Vietnam, fostering a new era of economic and technological progression.

This partnership will facilitate efforts to introduce Vietnamese startups to global markets while encouraging promising tech firms from around the world and in Asia, to make headway in Vietnam. It will also encourage business and investment flows between ASEAN countries like Vietnam and Thailand with Japan, thereby diversifying the regional economic landscape.

The tie-up will facilitate efforts to get Vietnamese startups onto a global stage

Vietnam is increasingly deemed attractive as an investment destination, specifically for startups, and there is a clear trend towards further development. There are many Japanese companies interested in Vietnamese startups, especially in e-commerce, cars, healthcare, gamification, and logistics. Furthermore, with the recent elevation of bilateral ties between Vietnam and Japan, it is believed that Japanese investors are continuing to accelerate their expansion in Vietnam.

The NIC, led by the Ministry of Planning and Investment, is a hub for innovation with a mission to promote digital innovation at a national level and develop the countrys tech ecosystem.

MUFG Bank, with its unrivalled network globally and longstanding presence in Vietnam, has laid a solid foundation to support customers growth.

As a gateway connecting Vietnam with the world, MUFG Bank has promoted Vietnam to multinational corporates and investors globally and within Asia, fostering real economic growth and the development of sound and robust capital markets.

Kojima Masao, regional head of MUFG Bank Vietnam, said that the three important pillars outlined by Vietnam as its growth trajectories including green transition, digital transformation, and infrastructure are interconnected and indispensable to the countrys modern sustainable development.

Digital technologies can optimise resource use, decreasing costs of producing green energy, and align between economic efficiency and the environment, all contributing to a green transition. Startups with technological applications to solve social and environmental problems will lead the new front, Kojima said.

The new agreement will offer new value for enterprises

With its strong track record in environmental, social, and governance financing and deep commitment to promote carbon neutrality both from within and across society, MUFG will provide value to enterprises and startups, Kojima added.

The expertise and experience MUFG together with its partner bank relationships, subsidiaries, and affiliates form the basis of its unrivalled network and competitive advantages. Through the collaboration with the NIC, both parties will utilise and complement each others strengths.

Collaboration is expected to reach new horizons as technology startups from the likes of Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam come together, creating a powerful network that will stimulate constant expansion and technological progress.

Along with the significant step for the promotion of Vietnamese innovations globally, it also bridges foreign startups to bring their operations to Vietnamese soil, Kojima explained, thus creating an environment teeming with potential and setting the stage for a vibrant, innovative, and globally connected startup culture in Vietnam.

Prime Minister officially opens NIC Hoa Lac The National Innovation Centre (NIC) in Hoa Lac High-Tech Park was inaugurated with the participation of PM Pham Minh Chinh on October 28.

NIC fulfilling promise with wide-ranging programmes Vietnams National Innovation Centre has created a solid launch pad for startups to develop new technology nationwide.

NIC runs on ABB smart building tech The new National Innovation Centre (NIC) in Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, Hanoi is playing a key role in connecting the countrys domestic technology ecosystem with global networks, helping accelerate the countrys position as a regional innovation destination.

MUFGs gateway to the global business community As 2021 draws to a close, MUFG Bank Vietnam would like to take the opportunity to thank our clients for your partnership and regulators, partners, and colleagues for your incredible support and guidance throughout the year.

MUFG, Mizuho, SMFG, and Grab vying to acquire Home Credit Japanese financial behemoths and Grab have allegedly shown their appetite to acquire Home Credit in Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam and India.

The 10th anniversary VietinBank - MUFG strategic alliance The year 2023 will mark the 10th anniversary of the VietinBank - MUFG strategic alliance. This is a significant milestone on the collaboration journey of the two banks and triggers so many special memories.

Committed to empowering a brighter future MUFG Vietnam believes empowering members of business and society to address environmental and social issues is an integral part of its mission. With that, we have been making relentless efforts to initiate conversations with clients and policymakers about the importance of transition finance.
A Seoul court sentenced the suspect in last year's attempted rape and killing of a woman on a hiking trail in Seoul to life in prison Monday, saying he should be separated from society forever.

Choi Yun-jong, 30, was indicted on charges of fatally beating, throttling and attempting to rape the victim he randomly picked on a hillside hiking trail in the Sillim neighborhood on Aug. 17, 2023.

The victim, an elementary school teacher in her 30s, was left unattended for some 20 minutes before being taken to a hospital, but died two days later.

The Seoul Central District Court on Monday said the defendant had the intention to kill, saying he is believed to have wrapped his arms around her neck and applied strong pressure for four to six minutes, even though the victim had lost her power to resist.

Choi had claimed he had only tried to block the victim's mouth.

"There is no way to redeem the damage after an innocent life was lost, and the bereaved families had to go through incurable pain," the court said, highlighting the need to prevent such crimes targeting random women in broad daylight, at a place made for public use, from happening again.

The court, however, also pointed out the defendant had lived as a "reclusive loner" for years, and he did not receive timely treatment for depression and a personality disorder.

The prosecution had demanded the death penalty for Choi, but the court dismissed the claim, saying a life sentence should be given instead, with the possibility of release on parole limited.

Under the current Criminal Act, a convict sentenced to life in prison is eligible for parole after serving 20 years in prison, but the court suggested the correctional facility shut off the possibility for parole, in such a case that has stirred up much public outrage. (Yonhap)
Nghe An is working to build on its dynamic urban centres and growth drivers

The central province of Nghe An held a conference to announce the provincial planning towards 2030, and the overall adjustment project of the general planning for the construction of Southeast Nghe An Economic Zone (EZ) towards 2040.

At the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasised that Nghe An planning and adjusted construction planning for Southeast Nghe An EZ were built with a long-term vision as part of the overall development of the North Central and Central Coast regions.

The planning will open up new opportunities and development spaces with various growth driving areas, strategic breakthroughs, economic corridors, economic sectors, and dynamic urban centres. Together with a resolution on piloting a number of specific policies to develop Nghe An, it will create new driving forces for faster, strong, breakthrough and more sustainable development.

To effectively implement the plan, DPM Ha suggested that Nghe An needs to immediately review detailed plans linking urban, industry, and services, with infrastructure projects under construction, including the North-South East Expressway, the Nghi Son-Cua Lo coastal road, roads connecting National Highway 7C to Ho Chi Minh Road, and connections to Vinh-Cua Lo.

The province needs to implement the plan, which prioritises inter-regional and interprovincial connection infrastructure projects; urban, industrial, and service projects; social infrastructure; healthcare; culture; digital infrastructure, natural disaster prevention; climate change; and environmental projects.

It must also develop eastern economic corridors to promote the development of the Western region.

Provincial development

Nghe An also needs to effectively use state resources in infrastructure investment to play a key role in promoting private funding. In particular, the province needs to focus on developing high-quality human resources, considering this a breakthrough driving force. Technology projects being backed in Nghe An will rapidly increase the demand for technologically qualified and skilled labour.

At the same time, it must strongly develop a creative startup ecosystem, linking universities, research institutes and businesses to promote research, development and application of science and technology.

According to DPM Ha, the key to Nghe Ans success lies in its ability to mobilise strong human resources. He appreciated that premises, essential infrastructure, human resources, innovation, and the business environment must all be ready to implement the policies the Party and the government have set out.

Several projects were awarded investment certificates in the first days of the year, illustrating the attractiveness, potential advantages, and investment opportunities available in Nghe An.

We believe that Nghe An will write miracles in developing the homeland to become increasingly rich, beautiful, civilised, and soon become a prosperous province of the country as President Ho Chi Minh wished during his lifetime, the DPM said.

Meanwhile, the province needs to strengthen cooperation and development links with localities in the north central and central coast regions to create momentum and stronger connections, especially with the two adjacent provinces of Thanh Hoa, and Ha Tinh, localities that share a border with Laos.

DPM Ha added that Nghe An has enough potential and outstanding opportunities for rapid development. At the same time, it plays an important role in the countrys socioeconomic development strategy, ensuring national defence and security of the north central and central coast regions.

Developing flexibly

At the conference, Nghe An leaders also approved six projects worth over $400 million. They included one project implemented by domestic investors and five foreign-led projects in high technology, components, electronic equipment, and green energy.

Secretary of Nghe An Party Committee Thai Thanh Quy stated that the announcement of the core contents of provincial planning and the adjustment project of the general planning for Southeast Nghe An EZ was an important legal corridor for socioeconomic development territorial space, and key EZ development of the province,

At the same time, we are pleased to witness the awarding ceremony of investment certificates for the six projects in Southeast Nghe An EZ, as these are the first important projects to concretise approved plans, Quy said.

Secretary Quy said that the announcement of the new plan was the first step in a long road. Going forward, Nghe An will focus on communications and disseminating planning contents to all levels across society, he said.

Nguyen Duc Trung, Chairman of Nghe An Peoples Committee declared, The two projects just announced have a particularly important meaning, creating new motivation and new opportunities for the development of Nghe An.

In 2024, the province will focus on completing the construction and approval of district planning, implementing projects including Southeast Nghe An EZ expansion project; expanding the boundaries and urban space of Vinh city; arranging administrative units at district and commune levels before 2025; boosting urban development towards 2030; and supplementing specific policies to submit to the government and National Assembly.

The province must then continue to accelerate the implementation of two strategic transport infrastructure projects: Cua Lo Deepwater Port and the upgrading of Vinh International Airport. It must also focus on implementing key transport infrastructure ventures and industrial park infrastructure projects in Southeast Nghe An EZ.

Nghe An offering up golden opportunities With inherent advantages combined with strategic orientations and macro policies planned by the central government, Nghe An province is facing a strong opportunity to welcome new investors.

Nghe An woos five foreign-led projects worth $311 million At a conference on December 13 to announce Nghe An province's planning for the period towards 2030, six new projects in Southeast Nghe An Economic Zone worth a combined $390 million were granted investment policy decisions and registration certificates. The decision included five foreign-invested projects valued at $311 million.
With an estimated total investment value of S$100 million ($74.56 million), Dhawa Quy Nhon Vietnam is the second phase of the Pegasus Education Tourism Development and will contain a total of 55 villas to be managed by Banyan Group under its Dhawa brand.

The developments first phase kicked off with the opening of Outward Bound Vietnam in 2016. Pegasus Education Tourism Development spans approximately 60 hectares (ha) with its own beach front and is part of Pegasus chairman Ricky Tans vision to combine outdoor adventure education facilities with ecotourism hospitality.

Ricky Tan, chairman, Pegasus and Ho Kwon Ping, chairman, Banyan Group

Pegasus is part of the KinderWorld Group of companies based in Singapore with Ricky Tan, the founder and chairman, at the helm since 1986.

This agreement cements our long-term investment in Vietnam and marks a significant day for the KinderWorld Group. This second phase of Dhawa Quy Nhon offers the first-of-its-kind hotel with villa residences, in a mixed education tourism development on the central coast of Vietnam," said Tan.

Inspired by rice-paddy terraces, Dhawa Quy Nhon Vietnam spans 10.5ha on tiered platforms descending to the seafront.

We are delighted to grow our partnership with Pegasus with the opening of the first Dhawa Residences within our dynamic multi-brand ecosystem. This agreement strengthens Banyan Group's presence in high-growth travel destinations and exemplifies our commitment to excellence across a broad spectrum of offerings, said Ho Kwon Ping, chairman of Banyan Group.

Inspired by rice-paddy terraces, Dhawa Quy Nhon Vietnam spans 10.5ha on tiered platforms descending to the seafront.

Rooted in a design philosophy that embraces panoramic sea views and is sensitive to the natural topography, Banyan Group's Dhawa brand emphasizes smart design, distinctive aesthetics, and fresh thinking. The resort caters to discerning travellers, providing unique experiences in stylish, one-of-a-kind settings, encapsulating the essence of choice, comfort, and discovery.

In 2023, Dhawa Resort Quy Nhon was awarded with the Best Resort Interior Design at the Asia Architecture and Design Awards.

The resort's design has been praised for featuring distinct zones inspired by different aspects of Quy Nhons cultural treasures and celebration of local culture, which seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, emphasising the regions rustic charms.

Binh Dinh is a province in central Vietnam that is gaining popularity as a tourist destination with an ideal combination of historical structures, untouched beaches, and lush greenery.

With an approved master plan for an international airport in Binh Dinh, international tourists will also be drawn to the tranquil and contemporary setting of Dhawa Quy Nhon.

KinderWorld International Group is the largest owner-operator of International Schools in Vietnam, operating 15 campuses across the country in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Binh Duong New City, Vung Tau, Nha Trang, Halong and Can Tho.

Binh Dinh province seeks investment from RoK A delegation from the central province of Binh Dinh led by Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Ho Quoc Dung on November 3 organised an investment promotion conference in the Republic of Korea (RoK) as part of their visit to the country.
Intel, Samsung, and Apple suppliers are pouring in more money here to ensure diversification, photo Le Toan

Last week, AirPods maker GoerTek unveiled its plans to inject $280 million to establish a wholly owned subsidiary in the northern province of Bac Ninh, which specialises in manufacturing consumer electronics products including AirPods, smartwatches, and VR/AR devices. The new subsidiary will facilitate GoerTek to expand business and long-term operations in Vietnam.

Goertek has invested in three projects in Bac Ninh with the total registered capital of $905 million. The Chinese assembler also plans to triple or quadruple its investments in the next decade. Goertek has scaled up its investment capital from $100 million to $500 million in the central province of Nghe An to produce network hardware, audio equipment, and other electronic products.

Also last week, Taiwanese electronic component maker Radiant Opto-Electronics Corporation also got a nod from Nghe An for a manufacturing project worth $120 million. The project will span six hectares at Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) Nghe An and will produce electronic components including backlight modules, light-guide plates, and moulded plastic frames.

Hong Kongs Everwin Precision Technology Vietnam will also build an electronic component plant in VSIP Nghe An with the total investment capital of $115 million. Previously, the company already invested $200 million in building an electronics component project at the same park. Construction began in October 2022.

Last year marked the first time that mainland China has had the largest share among foreign investors, beating its two neighbours of South Korea and Japan. Combined, Greater China accounted for almost half of Vietnams new foreign investment inflows in 2023. The lions share went into electronics.

Stephen Olson, a research fellow at the Hinrich Foundation told VIR, Prospects for Vietnam are excellent. The fact that Vietnam was able to capture so much of the production that has moved out of China is recent years is a strong vote of confidence in Vietnams human and other resources and its overall attractiveness as a production platform.

The key questions for Vietnam moving forward is whether its labour force and physical infrastructure will allow for additional expansion. The government will also be challenged to ensure that expanding production can be done in an environmentally sustainable way, Olson added.

Standard Chartered Vietnam observed that electronics exports tend to lead overall export recovery/growth in Asia, which bodes well for Vietnams overall exports in 2024, while J.P. Morgans 2024 strategy report highlighted the resulting rebound in Asia-wide tech manufacturing output, which bodes well for GDP growth.

A number of major electronics manufacturers have relocated at least part of their supply chain to Vietnam in recent years. Notably, LGs smartphone production has moved entirely from South Korea to Haiphong in the north of the country, while Apple has moved part of the production of its AirPods and small volumes of MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watch to Vietnam.

Apple supplier Luxshare-ICT is pouring an additional $330 million into its electronic component manufacturing project in the northern province of Bac Giang. Meanwhile, Foxconn is also investing in two new facilities in the northern province of Quang Ninh to the tune of $246 million.

A number of policies and practices need to be pursued over the long term to make Vietnam attractive to electronics giants, Olson said. Improving the educational system and access to education will be critical to ensure a skilled workforce. Learning as much as possible from world-class companies already operating in Vietnam is also key. This includes both technological expertise and managerial know-how.

In addition, he added that the government needed to ensure that rules and regulations were simple, with a minimum of red tape. Uncertainty or a lack of transparency in the regulatory environment can damage investor confidence. One of the key points is that Vietnam has to ensure that it has adequate human resources and infrastructure to handle a further influx of consumer electronics production. Given how much production has flowed into Vietnam lately, this could be a challenge, he added.

Vietnam attracts over 39,100 FDI projects with registered capital of nearly 469 billion USD so far Vietnam had attracted 39,140 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with total registered capital of over 468.91 billion USD by the end of 2023, reported the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI).

Industrial real estate market thriving on FDI flow: insiders Despite formidable challenges for the real estate market in 2023, industrial property market has stood out as a bright spot that has maintained its growth momentum on the back of the foreign direct investment (FDI) flow, according to insiders.

The tax policy impact on luring in fresh investment New tax policies in recent years have contributed significantly to building confidence from foreign investors and creating a competitive and sustainable business environment, directly contributing to Vietnams foreign investment growth in 2023.
Workers at Samsung Electronics in Bac Ninh province (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnam hopes Samsung become a strategic investor in the context that the country is building a strategy to develop the semiconductor industry and promote innovation, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc has told General Director of Samsung Vietnam Choi Joo Ho.

At their recent meeting, Ngoc spoke highly of the Republic of Korean groups projects in Vietnam as well as its contributions to local socio-economic development.

She proposed the group continue supporting Vietnam in improving the capacity of domestic businesses to be able to participate in its supply chain, and coordinate closely with her ministry to practically and effectively operate training centres located at the National Innovation Centre (NIC).

The Ministry of Planning and Investment will coordinate with relevant agencies to soon build policies in accordance with the international situation and regulations, as well as those of Vietnam to ensure the interests of all parties in the spirit of harmonising benefits and sharing risks, Ngoc said, stressing the Vietnamese Governments commitment to create a more favourable and attractive business and investment environment for foreign investors.

Choi Joo Ho said that Samsung is continuously expanding its investment in Vietnam, with about 1.2 billion USD added last year. Samsung has focused on developing supporting industries, and will strengthen collaboration with the NIC to operate a lab for innovation and information technology, train technology talent, and support start-up businesses.

As of late 2023, Samsung had invested over 20 billion USD in Vietnam. At present, more than 50% of Samsung products sold around the world are made in Vietnam.

Vietnam's semiconductor market predicted to reach $8.1 billion by 2028 Vietnam's semiconductor market is predicted to reach $8.1 billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate of 12.6 per cent over the 2023-2028 period, according to a report by IMARC Group released on December 21.

PM visits northern region's first semiconductor chip factory in Bac Giang Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on December 23 visited Hana Micron Vina Ltd., a company invested by the Republic of Korea (RoK) and the first semiconductor chip manufacturer in the northern region, which is located in Van Trung industrial park, Viet Yen district , the northern province of Bac Giang.

Foxconn's ShunSin Technology to establish semiconductor subsidiary ShunSin Technology is planning to open a subsidiary in Vietnam costing $20 million.
Yadea's factory covers an area of 232,200 square metres in Tan Hung Industrial Park, Lang Giang district of Bac Giang. With a cost of $100 million, the factory has a designed capacity of two million electric motorcycles per year, quadrupling the capacity of Yadea's first factory, which has been in operation since 2019 in the same locality.

Scheduled for operations to commence in 2025, the facility aims to reshape the electric motorcycle landscape in the region. About 30 per cent of the factory's output will be exported to other countries in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Laos.

The factory will also be equipped with cutting-edge production technology, including an automated production line. Once operational, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities for approximately 3,000 workers, consolidating Yadea's commitment to the Bac Giang economy.

In addition to the new factory, Yadea also plans to set up a research and development (R&D) centre in the new factory, employing between 100 and 300 experts from Vietnam, India, Japan, Thailand, and China. The company aims to produce smart e-scooters to meet the demand of customers in Vietnam and in the region.

"The R&D centre will specialise in researching the mobility behaviours of the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian population. It will produce products designed to suit the preferences of Vietnamese people in line with Yadea's global standards for quality control procedures," Rong Wen You, CEO of Yadea Vietnam, said.

According to an industry report on by communications consultancy Vero, Vietnams EV industry started off at a slow pace, but the potential for substantial growth is undeniable. Brands entering the EV race have a golden opportunity to leverage this burgeoning market by capturing early adopters, building trust, and establishing a strong foothold to reap long-term benefits.

Yadea entered the Vietnamese market in 2019 and has since emerged as a formidable contender in direct competition with local EV firms such as VinFast and Pega.

Yadea Vietnam commits $100 million for EV plant Yadea Vietnam, the Vietnamese subsidiary of the renowned global EV manufacturer Yadea, is making a substantial foray into the country's electric motorcycle sector with a strategic $100 million investment, according to Baobacgiang.vn.

Electric vehicle subsidies underpin green transport shift Different initiatives for subsidising electric vehicle (EV) sales are expected to promote the shift to green transportation in Vietnam.
CEDAR FALLS  One person has been charged after bank officials found a skimming device at a Cedar Falls ATM in November.

Police arrested 37-year-old Vasile Cristei, address unavailable, Friday on one count each of illegal use of a scanning device and malicious prosecution. Bond was set at $15,000.

According to court records, the manager at Collins Community Credit Union on Winterberry Drive called police after noticing a person placing a skimming device on the drive-up ATM on Nov. 16. The suspect also placed a small camera on the awning over the ATM.

Skimmers are designed to record information from a credit card or bank cards magnetic strip. Thieves place the electronic devices over cards slots at ATMs. After unsuspecting people use the ATMs, the culprits return and download the data, which can be used to create duplicate cards. The small cameras are used to record people entering their PIN numbers.

Other skimmers were found at banks and credit unions in North Liberty, Des Moines and West Des Moines. North Liberty officers detained Cristei and another person when they returned to collect the device, court records state.

Cedar Falls investigators identified Cristei from the Collins Community Credit Unions surveillance camera, records state.

Cristei allegedly gave North Liberty officers Ukrainian documents identifying himself as Aleksea Sovaonov, and he was charged under that name until his true identity was discovered.

Photos: How the ATM has changed over its 50-years in existence 1966: First ATM 1968: ATM money machine 1974: Pennsylvania United States 24 HOUR BANKING 1996: ATM MONEY MACHINE 1996: CHIE NOHMI CLEAN ATMS 1996: NEALON 1997: FIRST CHICAGO 1999: FAMILY 1999: REED 2003: HUMMEL 2004: CHAVEZ 2004: TOMAINO BUXTON 2005: HIRD 2008: Hurricane Gustav Gulf Coast 2010: Thomas Geissler 2010: Thomas Geissler, Gloria Brooks, Barbara Abrams 2011: Occupy Oakland 2012: Cupcake ATM 2012: Superstorm Sandy 2014: Hong Kong Bitcoin 2014: Ken Lo
Christians for Trump

I was recently invited to meet and pray with Donald Trump privately, along with a dozen Iowa faith leaders. The opportunity came after I publicly endorsed Trump with more than 200 Iowa ministry leaders.

This brought up the question, why do you support Trump, let alone endorse him?

Trump is a different kind of leader. Whether or not you appreciate his aggressive approach, whether or not you can get over his past, he is a statesman who delivers on his promises. He simply does what he says.

Too many others talk big during the campaign but dont even attempt to deliver on their promises after elected.

Trump is returning the government back to We the People.

Trump is playing a different game. He understands that this is not politics as usual. In fact, its not even about politics at all.

Today, it is about good verses evil.

No Trump is not the savior as the left attempts to claim we Christians believe. He is simply a chosen instrument for God to use in this time.

Now is the time for Christians to stand and rebuild the foundations. We cant continue outsourcing our stand for biblical values to politicians.

Ryan Howard, Cedar Falls

Refusing food aid

Iowa has turned down $28 million dollars from the federal government to feed children during the summer because the program doesnt focus on nutrition amid rising childhood obesity rates. Giving families $40 per month per child for three months of summer is not going to make kids fatter. No one is handing an eight-year-old the EBT card, but that money can help families. Yes, we need to educate parents and children alike on healthy eating and exercise.

But were turning our backs on 240,000 low-income Iowa children and ignoring the financial gain that money would mean. Experts estimate the money could generate $43.2 million. Five hundred sites provided meals last summer, but what if you live in one of the 447 cities without a food program? You buy cheap hot dogs and boxes of macaroni and cheese.

I remember being a single mom with two hungry school-age children and telling them they couldnt have a second bowl of cereal because wed run out of milk and cereal. No parent should worry about running out of food, and no child should go to bed hungry in the state that feeds the world.

Cherie Dargan, Cedar Falls, president LWVBHB

Satans playground

G.K. Chesterton once wrote: Fallacies do not cease being fallacies because they become fashions. Pope Francis approval of the recent Vatican document allowing priests to bless homosexual couples as individuals is political activism masquerading as spiritual guidance. It contradicts 2,000 years of consistent, unambiguous Catholic teaching regarding homosexual unions. Minus any confession/repentance on the couples part, such a blessing is empty, amounting to what Dietrich Bonhoeffer called cheap grace.

African Bishop Martin Mtumbuka recently called out the documents flawed reasoning: So, these two people of the same sex who the previous night slept together like a couple, and present themselves to us as a couple, are blessed as individuals, but they leave our presence as a couple; they go to their homes as a couple; they sleep in the same bed as a couple; but the document says theyre not blessed as a couple, although they appear to have been blessed like a couple.  It is very hard for me to give you, the faithful of this diocese, why the Holy Father signed this document.

The documents incoherence has left many of Mtumbukas brothers in the religious and among the Catholic laity understandably confused. Moral confusion is Satans playground.

Steve Kapler, Waterloo

Tenets of coercion

The seven tenets of coercion used by Hitler:

Control of information: Hitler tightly controlled the flow of information in Germany, through censorship and propaganda. This allowed him to shape public opinion and control what people knew about the world.

Intimidation: Hitler used intimidation and violence to silence dissent and opposition. This created a climate of fear and uncertainty, which made it difficult for people to speak out against the Nazi regime.

Dehumanization: Hitler dehumanized his enemies, portraying them as subhuman and unworthy of life. This made it easier for his followers to commit atrocities against them.

Isolation: Hitler isolated Germany from the rest of the world, making it difficult for people to get information about what was happening outside of Germany. This made it easier for him to control the narrative and keep people in line.

Repetition: Hitler repeated his message over and over again, using propaganda and rallies to get his message across. This repetition helped to ingrain his message in peoples minds and make it more difficult for them to question it.

Appeal to emotions: Hitler appealed to peoples emotions, such as fear, anger, and hatred. This made it easier for him to get people.

Heil Trump.

Gregory Hoekstra,

Waterloo

Tragedy repeated

The tragedy in Perry has made me think back to the story of my mother, Kathryn Schrader. In 1951, a man named Max Martin came to our door in Adair County asking questions only to come back later and shoot and kill her because he thought she lied to him.

More can be found on a podcast called Dieowa that covers murders in Iowa counties. The short version is that Martin had been in and out of trouble, violent with his family, and diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia but given little to no treatment. And he was allowed to purchase a gun.

That was 72 years ago; what has changed? Why cant we face these issues and fix them? We need to destigmatize mental illness and get people the help they need and correct our gun laws, commonsense reforms like better screening and restrictions on assault rifles. My children are hunters, but assault rifles are for war, not hunting.

Ive worked as a CNA/DCW for over 30 years. This experience, my mothers death, and the tragedy in Perry, have made it clear we must do better getting people the care they need, supporting caregivers, and reforming our gun laws.

Cindy Ramer, Denver

GOP tax hoax

Once again the Republican Party will pull a hoax on Iowans. The idea of shifting off of the income tax has a lot of negatives. Not taxing overtime would be a better idea. With income tax you know how much you pay every year. If Republicans shift off the income tax state services may suffer and taxes would have to be made up.

Raising the fuel tax could be an option except that is too obvious. Raising the sales tax is an option because none of us know how much sales tax we pay. Taxes on booze, smoking, gambling could go up  sin taxes. Revenue to our colleges and schools will be cut. Fees for parks and camping could go up. The point is that to replace the income tax all sorts of insidious and sneaky taxes and fees may be instituted against certain users, or the taxes may be hidden so you never know how much you pay. It will be a Reynolds shell game, some will make out great, others will be worse. Which one will you be?

Harold Tuchel, Waterloo

Protect our water

Eminent domain is the right of governments or their agency to take private property for the public good with just compensation. Its been used to take homes for building roads, city lots for development, tribal lands for highways and railroads, farmland for pipelines.

Safe drinking water is surely a highest priority for us all, so why arent all our waterways and extensive adjoining banks given eminent domain protections to serve this incredibly critical public good?

For decades we have politely asked corporate farmers and animal confinement operations not to pollute our water. We have created recommendations for them to use voluntarily to decrease polluting public waters, and we even pay them taxpayer money to do so. In essence, we are paying them to not damage or destroy what rightfully belongs to every living being.

Eminent domain should be applied to all our waterways including large setbacks, this to cease polluting by those few farmers who care less, by livestock confinements and all corporations, and any damage should be punishable by large fines, even jail time. The public should not have to pay endlessly to clean up and protect this most important public good.

After all, water is life!

Mary McBee, Tama

Plight of immigrants

The plight of the immigrants we see in the news reports from our southern border appears very similar to the experience of refugees in the Middle East and Africa. The United States and Mexico should join in a request to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to establish refugee camps on both sides of the border. This would provide shelter (the tents with the familiar UNHCR logo) and centers where cooperating nongovernmental organizations could efficiently provide food, medical care, and other basic needs. It would give those of us who care about the immigrants as people effective channels to put our concern into action. At the same time, it would free up time and resources of the Department of Homeland Security immigration agencies to focus on enforcement and judicial administration, and it would make much more sense than scattering the immigrants across the country while their cases are pending. It would be helpful if Congress would make meaningful rational immigration policy reform. But that takes decades. My wife and I have for years supported organizations which provide critical humanitarian care in tough situations. Their commitment and expertise could make a huge difference.

Al Charlson, Waverly

World is watching

Iowa caucuses are Monday. It appears Republicans are about to honor Donald Trump with a big win. Before votes are cast, much reflection is in order.

First, Trump is indicted on 91 felony crimes in four separate locations by objective, nonpartisan grand juries of ordinary citizens. There was clear and convincing evidence of criminal behavior for indictments. In addition, Trump is adjudged to have committed fraud or defamation in two civil cases.

According to a New York Times website, there are 31 documented instances where Trump pressured various officials between Nov. 20, 2020, and Jan. 6, 2021, to overturn legitimate results of 2020 election. Fortunately, they refused. The link for this site is complicated but here it is for public scrutiny: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/01/08/us/trump-2020-overturn-timeline.html?campaign_id=9&emc=edit_nn_20240109&instance_id=112054&nl=the-morning%C3%82%C2%AEi_id=103269060&segment_id=154673&te=1&user_id=0c14ad8ccc309eac14539c2b4da5fce4

Finally, Trump instigated, encouraged and led an insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Capitol and city police were attacked and many were injured. Officers were permanently harmed such that there was premature death, disabilities and officers were so traumatized they cannot return to duty.

The rest of the country, indeed the rest of the world, is observing. As a result of this attention, serious reflection is in order before any votes are cast on Monday night.

Roger White, Cedar Falls

Tell the truth

Regarding Fred Abrahams New Years resolutions, he should include the most important: tell the full truth about events and people  omission of critical details reflects poorly upon ones soul. For instance:

Urging Biden to work with Speaker Mike Johnson on the border: Johnsons emphatically told Biden, Stop the flow with a stroke of your executive-order pen, just like you erased all of Trumps border solutions. (HR 2) Biden wont. Abraham should ask why. Work permits are attractions, not solutions. And, syphoning American students schools/social services money to illiterate, non-English-speaking immigrants attracts more.

Give up comparing Bidens mental frailties versus Grassleys vigor.

Vivek Ramaswamys depth of mind and knowledge just might challenge yours.

Holding Chris Christie, New Jerseys failed governor, as a paragon of anti-Trumpism tells us who your heroes are.

Trump will only benefit the rich: More Democratic billionaires than Republican.

Democrats support Bidens great economy: $6 trillion borrowed triggering inflation, slowing economic growth, raising interest rates/borrowing costs. Americans now hold $1 trillion+ credit card debt while losing jobs causing lower gas consumption/prices. Cumulatively, since 2020, grocery/consumer goods prices are 20+% higher. Great!

Finally, Bidens traitorous family is real; Trumps still innocent of all charges.

Larry Van Oort, Cedar Falls

Insurrectionists

Donald Trump calling the Jan. 6 rioters hostages is an insult to actual hostages. The correct term to describe them is insurrectionists.

Beverly Stevens, Cedar Falls

School shootings

May I suggest controlling public school murders shall require every student under 18 years to provide a statement from their parent or guardian that this student does not have ownership of any lethal weapon, and does not have any private access to any lethal weapon in the family.

William Teaford, Cedar Falls
Country urged to increase childrearing incentives

By Jun Ji-hye

One in five elementary schools across the country has less than 60 students, while one in 10 has less than 30 students, amid the continually falling birthrate, according to statistics released by the Korean Educational Development Institute, Monday.

The institute said that of the 6,175 elementary schools nationwide, the number of the entirety of students was less than 60 in 1,424 schools, or 23.1 percent, last year.

The figure has increased by 2.3 times from 2003 when 610, or 11.2 percent, of the 5,463 schools had less than 60 students.

South Jeolla Province had the largest number of such schools last year at 212, followed by North Gyeongsang Province at 207, North Jeolla Province at 206 and South Chungcheong Province at 177.

In the greater Seoul area, there were 107 such schools in Gyeonggi Province, 17 in Incheon and four in the capital.

The number of elementary schools that had less than 30 students has increased more dramatically by 4.1 times to 584, or 9.5 percent, of the total, compared to 2003 when the figure stood at only 141, or 2.6 percent.

The impact of the declining birthrate is expected to spread to middle and high schools in the near future, as the number of elementary, middle and high school students is forecast to decrease from 5.13 million this year to 4.84 million in 2026, according to data tallied by the Ministry of Education. The number is expected to continue to fall to 4.27 million in 2029.

Korea is struggling with the worlds lowest fertility rate of 0.78 babies born per woman as of 2022. The rate has been down from 0.84 in 2020 and 0.81 in 2021.

Amid a growing sense of crisis over a population decline, the government expanded childbirth incentives, paternity leave benefits and housing welfare programs for families with newborns.

According to the Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy, the government offers a total of 29.6 million won ($22,000) as childbirth incentives per child from birth to 7 years of age, under its expanded welfare policy applied from the beginning of this year.

The incentives include 2 million won for a first child, 3 million won for a second child or more and 5 million won for twins, to assist parents in meeting prenatal expenses. The amount increased from 2 million won that had been paid for each child born.

Despite the expanded benefits, the countrys public spending on policies related to family welfare fell behind other member nations of the OECD, according to data released by the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

The data showed that Koreas public spending on family welfare accounted for 1.6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), ranking 31st among the 38 OECD members, with their average tallied at 2.1 percent.

Swedens fertility rate was 1.67 in 2021, far higher than Koreas 0.81 in that year, and the European countrys public spending on family welfare accounted for 3.3 percent of its GDP, more the twice Koreas.

Frances fertility rate was 1.8 and its public spending on family welfare accounted for 2.9 percent of its GDP.

Experts urged the government to dramatically increase its public spending to the level of countries that have higher fertility rates.

Koreas low birthrate has reached the serious level and needs an urgent solution, said Lee In-shil, who heads the Korean Peninsula Population Institute for Future.

The government should raise its public spending at least to Frances level by, for example, offering more cash bonuses.
CHEROKEE, Iowa  During his 32 years as a state archaeologist, Mark Anderson observed and investigated all kinds of historically significant sites across Iowa.

But not long after his retirement and subsequent acceptance of the part-time staff archaeologist job at the Sanford Museum and Planetarium in Cherokee a little more than a year ago, he received a call alerting him to something he'd never seen before, at least not in this part of the state.

Intrigued, Anderson visited the site and was excited to see low, conical earthen mounds near a river.

Cherokee burial mounds Mark Anderson, archaeologist at the Sanford Museum and Planetarium in Cherokee, Iowa, steps out the width of a suspected Native American conic

"When I looked across the river terrace and saw a number of small mounds, it was pretty obvious these were manmade," Anderson said. "You pretty much know right away after you've visited them."

The mounds likely are burial sites of prehistoric Native peoples who lived here hundreds of years ago, Anderson said. Visits to about a dozen other sites yielded similar findings and a new puzzle for the veteran archaeologist to ponder.

"I was not aware of many mounds at all in northwest Iowa," he said. "They're located in places I wouldn't have expected and I wouldn't have looked if I was doing this on my own."

Now he'd like to find as many sites as possible so this ancient history can be documented and preserved.

"I don't think we have a really good grasp of mounds in northwest Iowa," he said. "There may be more mounds than we think. Part of my desire is to find these resources we're not really aware of and let people know so they can preserve them."

Prehistoric burial mounds look like small domes and can vary in size from 16-30 feet in diameter and up to 2 feet tall, Anderson said. Native peoples' custom of interring the dead began about 2,800 years ago, and the burial mounds are common in the eastern United States, stretching into eastern Iowa, where many mounds have been found.

burial mounds Prehistoric burial mounds are shown at a site in Iowa. It was believed not many sites like this existed in Northwest Iowa existed, but Mark An

They're usually located on elevated positions on hilltops and ridges, which explains why few were thought to exist in northwest Iowa. Aside from the Loess Hills in Woodbury and Plymouth counties, where mounds are known to be located, this part of the state is pretty flat. Great Plains peoples who may have lived in this area also didn't construct mounds, which explains why they're rarely found west of the Missouri River.

Anderson's interested in searching an area known as the Northwest Iowa Plain, the Little Sioux River valley that includes Sioux, Lyon, Osceola, O'Brien, Cherokee and Clay counties and portions of Woodbury and Plymouth counties. Rather than elevated sites, mounds he's observed in this area are on terraces along rivers and streams, likely because they were the highest points available and not in danger of flooding. Anderson has a lot of questions, like why some sites have more mounds than others, and he hopes finding more sites may lead to some theories.

"I have a lot of guesses," he said. "There are enough out there that I need to look further."

That's where the public comes in.

Anderson asks that landowners contact him about possible sites so he can take a look. There are compelling reasons for landowners to let him do so. If mounds are found, landowners can receive tax incentives for preserving archaeological sites. Anderson said the locations would be kept on file at the state archaeologist's office and not be made public, so landowners should not be concerned about having tourists or artifact hunters trespassing on their land.

Cherokee burial mounds Mark Anderson, archaeologist at the Sanford Museum and Planetarium in Cherokee, Iowa, describes the known Native American conical burial mound

Thousands of mounds have been lost over the years to erosion and cultivation by settlers. Anderson said the mounds can be so subtle that farmers tilling the land in the past likely never realized they were accidentally destroying sites. Cattle grazing also has likely worn down some mounds over the years, making them indistinguishable from the surrounding terrain.

Before more mounds are lost, Anderson said, it's vital to find as many as possible to better understand the people who once lived here.

Very little is known about them, he said. There are 26 native nations that trace their ancestry to Iowa, and a number of them likely are descendants of the people who built the mounds. Archaeologists aren't interested in excavating the sites, he said, but instead want to leave them undisturbed and catalog them so there's a record of their existence.

"We would like to preserve as much natural history as possible, and landowners and private citizens can help us with that a lot," Anderson said.

Landowners who think they may have mounds on their property can email Anderson at archaeologist@sanfordmuseum.org or contact him through the museum. He's eager to hear about more potential sites.

"I don't know what the results will be but I suspect we'll find more than anticipated," he said. "This is really exciting for me."

Photos: Excavation begins on potential site of Genoa Indian School cemetery
Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (21 January 2024)

The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

In Kupyansk direction, as a result of the successful actions of the Zapad Group of Forces units, Krakhmalnoye (Kharkov region) was liberated.

The Groups aviation and artillery repelled seven attacks launched by units of the AFU 25th, 32nd, 60th mechanised brigades, and 1st Ukrainian National Guard Brigade near Sinkovka (Kharkov region), Terni (Donetsk Peoples Republic), and Kolomyichikha (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 55 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles.

In Krasny Liman direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces supported by artillery repelled three attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 21st and 63rd mechanised brigades near Yampolovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 80 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces supported by artillery repelled two attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 47th Mechanised Brigade and 5th Assault Brigade near Kirovo and Kleshcheyevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

Moreover, manpower and hardware of the AFU 81st Airmobile Brigade, 22nd, 24th, 28th, and 93rd mechanised brigades were struck near Grigorovka, Belogorovka, Krasnoye, Andreyevka, and Kurdyumovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 310 Ukrainian troops, one tank, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, one D-20 howitzer, and one Grad MLRS combat vehicle.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery repelled one attack launched by an assault detachment of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade near Novomikhailovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

Manpower of the AFU 79th Air Assault Brigade was struck near Paraskoveyevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces supported by artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 117th Mechanised Brigade, 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, and 3rd Ukrainian National Guard Brigade near Verbovoye, Rabotino, Pyatikhatki, and Nesteryanka (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 30 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer.

In Kherson direction, as a result of strikes at units of the AFU 35th Marines Brigade, 23rd Ukrainian National Guard Brigade, and 123rd Territorial Defence Brigade near Novotyaginka, Stanislav (Kherson region) and Solonchaki (Nikolaev region), up to 20 Ukrainian troops and four motor vehicles were wiped out.

Missile Troops and Artillery, attack unmanned aerial vehicles of the Groups of Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation obliterated one ammunition depot of the AFU 31st Mechanised Brigade, struck a temporary deployment area of foreign mercenaries near Konstantinovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic), neutralised 127 AFU artillery units at firing positions, as well as engaged manpower and hardware in 129 areas during the day.

Air defence units intercepted one Tochka-U tactical missile, two U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles over the past 24 hours.

Moreover, 43 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles have been shot down close to Velikiy Vyselok, Liman Perviy (Kharkov region), Verkhnekamenka, Belogorovka, Shipilovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Spornoye, Soledar (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Peschanovka, Podlesnoye, Podstepnoye (Kherson region), and Kamenka-Dneprovskaya (Zaporozhye region).

In total, 567 airplanes and 265 helicopters, 10,957 unmanned aerial vehicles, 450 air defence missile systems, 14,708 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,203 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 7,799 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 17,698 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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WtR
One man died and another was injured in a snowmobile crash east of Mauston on Jan. 17 in the morning.

Scott Williams, 60, of Chippewa Falls died from injuries sustained in the two-vehicle crash on a snowmobile trail near Noe Road roughly 250 yards from its intersection with Highway 12-16. Mark Sibber, 53, of Cadott, is at a Madison hospital being treated for injuries.

Both men were unresponsive when responders arrived. Sibber was transported via UW MedFlight to the Madison hospital. Williams was pronounced dead on the scene. The Juneau County Sheriffs Office and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources are currently investigating the crash.

The Adams County Sheriffs Office and Mauston fire and ambulance staff assisted the Juneau County Sheriffs Office and DNR at the scene, as well as the Juneau County Coroners Office an area gas station.
Are the Madison lakes ice-covered?

The Wisconsin State Climatology Office, housed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, monitors and reports on the ice coverage of Madison lakes.

The office keeps a database of the ice-over and ice-out dates for three Madison-area lakes: Mendota, Monona and Wingra. These records extend back to the winters of 1855-1856 for Mendota and Monona. The record of annual ice cover of Wingra is spotty, but consistent starting in the winter of 1982-83. Due to the long record based on visual observations, it is no surprise that the rules of opening and closing have been handed down by oral tradition.

Ice coverage data for lakes Monona and Wingra are based on a general 50 percent covered rule. The size and irregular shoreline of Lake Mendota make it challenging to observe, and so ice coverage is based on whether one can row a boat between Picnic Point and Maple Bluff. The lore is that in the early era, this rule was developed based on observers ability to bring a case of beer in a rowboat to friends on the other shore.

This year, without a rowboat, the observers determined that both Lake Mendota and Lake Monona froze over on Monday, Jan. 15. The recent cold air outbreak helped in covering the lakes with ice. Lake Wingra has frozen and thawed multiple times already this winter but has been frozen over consistently since Jan. 5.

This winters freeze-over date for lakes Mendota and Monona is the third-latest on record. Mendota froze over on Jan. 20, 2007, and Jan. 30, 1932. Monona froze over on Jan. 18, 2007, and January 30, 1932.

With the forecast of warmer weather this week, it will be interesting to see whether the lakes remain iced over.

And a big thank you to Ed Hopkins, Lyle Anderson and David Liebl, who annually brave our winter weather to assess ice conditions on the lakes.
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Ulstein Verft has contracted Norwegian Greentech to deliver the ballast water treatment systems (BWTS) to two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) that the Norwegian shipyard is constructing for Bernhard Schulte Offshore.



We have delivered multiple BWTS systems to Ulstein Verft over the years and are therefore highly familiar with their stringent quality requirements. We are proud to be chosen forthese two newbuilds, says Lars-Tore Lynge, Sales Manager at Norwegian Greentech.



The two vessels  NB320 and NB321  are both CSOVs for the offshore wind industry. The vessels are of the ULSTEIN SX222 design. The ships will have hybrid battery propulsion andbe prepared for methanol fuel to enable carbon-neutral operations.



Norwegian Greentech will supply its energy efficient ballast water treatment system to the two newbuilds. The company has developed a method that combine UV and filters. The chemical-freesystem has a highly compact design, which is ideal for difficult-to-fit engine or pump rooms.



We take great pride in our technology and the significant environmental and operational benefits it offers to shipowners. Hence, we consider our system to be a good match for theextensive fuel efficiency features that these CSOVs will be equipped with, says Brge Gjelseth, SVP Commercial at Norwegian Greentech.



Norwegian Greentech will manufacture the ballast water treatment systems at its headquarters in Fosnavag, Norway, and deliver them to Ulstein Verft. The company has not disclosedthe value of the contract.



Norwegian Greentech is a supplier of ballast water treatment systems and other systems for purification of water for use in the aquaculture industry and in the maritime sector.The company is a subsidiary of HAV Group ASA, which is listed on Euronext Growth in Oslo, Norway.



Ulstein is a family-owned company established in 1917, specialising in ship design, shipbuilding, systems and services for the maritime market.

For more intelligence on component trends for turbines, installation vessels, specifications and supply & demand analysis,

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Dexter Scott King, who dedicated much of his life to shepherding the civil rights legacy of his parents, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, died Monday of prostate cancer. He was 62.



The King Center in Atlanta, which Dexter King served as chairman, said the younger son of the civil rights icon died at his home in Malibu, California. His wife, Leah Weber King, said in a statement that he died peacefully in his sleep.

The third of the Kings four children, Dexter King was named for the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father was serving as a pastor when the Montgomery bus boycott launched him to national prominence in the wake of the 1955 arrest of Rosa Parks.

Dexter King was 7 years old when his father was assassinated in April 1968 while supporting striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee.

He turned that pain into activism, however, and dedicated his life to advancing the dream Martin and Coretta Scott King had for their children and others, the Rev. Al Sharpton said in a statement. He said Dexter King left us far too soon.

Dexter King described the impact his fathers killing had on his childhood, and the rest of his life, in a 2004 memoir, Growing Up King.

Ever since I was seven, Ive felt I must be formal, he wrote, adding: Formality, seriousness, certitude  all these are difficult poses to maintain, even if youre a person with perfect equilibrium, with all the drama life throws at you.

As an adult, Dexter King bore such a striking resemblance to his famous father that he was cast to portray him in a 2002 TV movie about Parks starring Angela Bassett.

He became an attorney and worked to protect the King familys intellectual property. In addition to serving as chairman of the King Center, he was also president of the King estate.

Dexter King and his siblings, who shared control of the family estate, didnt always agree on how to uphold their parents legacy.

In one disagreement, the siblings ended up in court after Dexter King and his brother in 2014 sought to sell the Nobel Peace Prize their father was awarded in 1964 along with the civil rights leaders traveling Bible, used by President Barack Obama at his second inauguration. The Rev. Bernice A. King said she found the notion unthinkable.

The King siblings settled the dispute in 2016 after former President Jimmy Carter served as a mediator. The items were turned over to the brothers, but other terms of the settlement were kept confidential.

Coretta Scott King died in 2006, followed by the Kings oldest child, Yolanda King, in 2007.

Words cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling, Bernice King, the youngest of the four, said in a statement.

I cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling, my brother, Dexter. Im praying for strength to get through this very difficult time. pic.twitter.com/enk6lJwNDi  Be A King (@BerniceKing) January 22, 2024

Dexter Kings older brother, Martin Luther King III, said: The sudden shock is devastating. It is hard to have the right words at a moment like this. We ask for your prayers at this time for the entire King family.
Han Dong-hoon, the leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), said Monday he had indeed been asked by the office of President Yoon Suk Yeol to resign but rejected the request, confirming an unlikely clash between the two sides.

Tensions have escalated between Han and Yoon's office over how to handle allegations that first lady Kim Keon Hee received a luxury bag as a gift in 2022, leading to presidential chief of staff Lee Kwan-sup delivering a request that he step down as chairman of the PPP's emergency leadership committee.

It is one of the most unlikely clashes because Han has long been considered one of Yoon's closest confidants since their time as prosecutors. When Han took over as PPP leader last month, critics denounced him as Yoon's "avatar."

"I understand that my term continues until after the general election," Han told reporters, saying he will carry out his duties, prioritizing the people as the upcoming election is crucial for the future generation.

"As I rejected the request for resignation, I can't talk about details," he said.

In November of last year, Voice of Seoul, a liberal YouTube news channel, reported that the first lady received a Christian Dior bag valued at around 3 million won ($2,252) from a Korean American pastor in September 2022.

Since then, some reform-minded members of the PPP have raised calls for an apology from her, apparently fearing that the allegation could possibly serve as a defeating factor as the party aims to regain its majority from the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea.

Regarding the point that allegations are one of the reasons behind conflicts between the PPP and the presidential office, Han said his position has remained unchanged from the beginning.

Han has stated from the beginning that the incident was a premeditated hidden camera trap, though he partially sided with the reformists, acknowledging that there were aspects the public might be worried about.

Han also emphasized Monday that politics serving the people should be directed in a way that the party manages its own affairs and the government does its job. (Yonhap)
China hails Non-Aligned Movement's endeavors in advancing global peace

Xinhua) 10:43, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
President Yoon Suk Yeol skipped a government-public debate scheduled for Monday, triggering speculation as to whether the decision was related to a clash between the presidential office and the ruling party chief.

The presidential office sent a notice to reporters half an hour before the start of the debate that Yoon had no events on his public schedule for the day.

The debate was the fifth in a series of sessions on people's livelihood issues and Yoon had led all previous sessions. Monday's debate was led by Government Policy Coordination Minister Bang Ki-seon.

The notice from the presidential office came shortly after Han Dong-hoon, the leader of the ruling People Power Party, confirmed to reporters he had been asked by Yoon's office to resign but rejected the request.

The presidential office reportedly made the request amid tensions between the two sides over how to handle allegations first lady Kim Keon Hee received a luxury bag as a gift in 2022, an issue seen as damaging to the ruling party ahead of the parliamentary elections in April.

Han has long been considered one of Yoon's closest confidants since their time as prosecutors.

A presidential official said Yoon's absence was caused by health issues, as the president had felt symptoms of a cold since the morning.

"He decided not to go because it didn't seem appropriate to speak at an open event attended by the general public," the official told Yonhap News Agency. (Yonhap)
Air India Express curated a captivating opening day for the public at the Wings India 2024 event, orchestrating a mesmerising live performance by celebrated percussionist and Padma Shri Awardee Sivamani. The tarmac with the airlines newest Boeing 737-8 aircraft on display, VT-BXH, aka Kalamkari, transformed into a stage as renowned artist Sivamani delivered a captivating performance culminating in an innovative percussionist accompaniment to the Air India Express brand's sonic identity. The theme of the performance encapsulated Air India Express's brand identity and intention to differentiate itself by making meaningful connections across people, cultures, and communities. The performance masterfully showcased the cultural and musical diversity of India, with 45 percussion instruments flown in from different parts of the country, representing the 45 destinations Air India Express connects to in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, weaving together a sonic tapestry that transcended cultural boundaries.

Air India Express was the only commercial airline to be a part of the flying display at Wings India 2024, where the airline unveiled its unique Kalamkari-adorned tail art on its newest Boeing 737-8 aircraft, VT-BXH, paying homage to the region of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Sivamani, celebrated globally for his exceptional rhythmic skills, captivated the audience with an extraordinary performance using an array of traditional instruments from across regions, including the Chanda, Dhadd, Dhol, Dholki, Dolleh, Dumru, Folk Drum, Gommat, Idakka, Khol, Mridangam, Nagada, Pambai, Shamel, Tabla, Tambourine, Tasha, Tavil, Tapey, Thamte, Thimila, Thumbak Naari, and the Udukkai from India, the Darbukka and Mirwas from the Middle East, and a Gong from Singapore.

Speaking at the occasion, Siddhartha Butalia, Chief Marketing Officer of Air India Express, said, "Since the launch of the Air India Express brand identity and positioning in October 2023, we have taken great pride in celebrating the artistic talent and diversity of India and the international regions we fly to, making meaningful connections between people, cultures, and communities with a sense of unique Indian warmth, a contemporary premium sensibility, and a more conscious emphasis on sustainability. We are delighted to have been recognised as Sustainability Champion at Wings India 2024, to unveil the 9th of our unique tail art designs in our Patterns of India theme, and to bring to life our brand sonic identity in its various renditions, with an energy and vibrancy encapsulated in todays percussionist performance on the tarmac at the inaugural public viewing day of Wings India 2024.

During the flying display, the skilled pilots of Air India Express showcased the Boeing 737-8 with a host of captivating manoeuvres rarely on display to the public and aviation enthusiasts, including short-field take-offs and landings, touch n go, low-level runs, and climbing turns. These manoeuvres demonstrated the operational capabilities and versatility of the aircraft and the Air India Express pilots.

The Air India Express tail art designs showcase diverse patterns from across the length and breadth of India on every new aircraft, including Bandhani and Patola from Gujarat, Gamosa from Assam, Jamdani from West Bengal, Jamawar from Kashmir, Phulkari from Punjab, Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu, Banarasi from Uttar Pradesh, and Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These designs pay homage to the diversity and craftsmanship of India's artistic and textile heritage. As Air India Express grows its domestic and international network, delivering exceptional travel experiences powered by award-winning technological innovations, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of a new India, celebrating cultural and artistic talent and diversity with every flight.
ABP Network, a leading name in innovative digital experiences, proudly announces the launch of a metaverse version of Ram Mandir, coinciding with the grand inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The ABPverse initiative on Monday allowed visitors to witness the Pran Pratishtha Samaroh LIVE from Ayodhya.



ABPLIVE's Ram Mandir Metaverse is a pioneering step in virtual spirituality, accessible through https://ayodhya.abpverse.com

It presents an opportunity for devotees worldwide to engage in a virtual darshan of the Ram Mandir. This immersive platform allows visitors to delve into a detailed timeline of events surrounding the temple's inauguration, participate in virtual aarti and pooja ceremonies, and offer flowers to Ram Lalla idol.



In addition to the spiritual offerings, the Ram Mandir Metaverse also features interactive elements such as games and selfie zones, fostering a global community of devotees and enthusiasts.



With meticulous attention to detail and reverence, the Ram Mandir metaverse is more than just a digital platform; it's an invitation to experience the essence of devotion and cultural heritage in a new and exciting way. This initiative reflects ABP Network's commitment to providing its audience with immersive and meaningful digital experiences.





The Ram Mandir experiment is ABPLIVEs third metaverse experiential project. Readers previously participated in the ABP Nadu Metaverse created to mark second anniversary of the fast-growing Tamil platform. The Election Centre Metaverse launched as part of ABPLIVEs ongoing election metaverse has already received accolades and has been among the fastest growing destinations for online news readers.



ABP Network cordially invites everyone to join this virtual abode of Lord Ram, embarking on an enriching journey that blends the essence of devotion with the marvels of modern technology.
Sriram Srinivasan, who served as the Group Digital Editor of The Hindu Group, has recently departed after dedicating over eight years to the organization. Initially joining as the Strategy and Digital Editor, he later assumed the role of Group Digital Editor.

He also posted a LinkedIn post, He wrote, "A good part of my nine years here was spent in building editorial strategies and giving shape to them. I am grateful to the leadership for trusting me with the opportunity to drive the editorial digital transformation journey. So we built new teams, formats, verticals, and offerings, and also attempted new ways of working with each other. For all this, I have to thank my colleagues on the editorial side as well those on the product, business, data, and technology teams, with whom I worked closely. I wish The Hindu group the very best."

Before joining The Hindu, Srinivasan held the position of Chief of Bureau in Chennai and Senior Assistant Editor at The Economic Times from March 2011 to February 2014. His professional journey includes stints at Outlook Business Magazine, CRISIL MarketWire, and The Hindu BusinessLine, where he contributed in diverse capacities.
Adgully is all set to hold its premier Marketing event, CMOs Charcha  Delhi Chapter 2024, on January 23 at Radisson Blu Plaza in Mahipalpur, New Delhi, from 11 AM onwards.

The event, whose theme is Future roadmap for pursuing growth in new ways, will be a gathering of the most distinguished marketing leaders from across industries. As the marketing landscape undergoes a seismic shift, industry leaders and visionaries are set to converge at the exclusive event, curated to explore the transformative trends and challenges shaping the marketing domain.

CMOs Charcha  Delhi Chapter 2024 will bring together seasoned professionals, thought leaders, and innovators. Attendees can expect insightful discussions, cutting-edge strategies, and invaluable networking opportunities.

CMOs Charcha is a premier platform that brings together top minds in the marketing industry to discuss, dissect, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of marketing. Each edition is crafted to inspire, educate, and empower marketing professionals by delving into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field.

With a focus on embracing change, fostering innovation, and anticipating future trends, CMOs Charcha Delhi Chapter 2024 promises to be a pivotal moment for marketing professionals seeking to stay ahead in the dynamic and ever-evolving industry.

At the heart of this esteemed gathering is Adgullys commitment to providing a space where top-tier professionals can come together to not only discuss but also meticulously dissect and navigate the intricate challenges and opportunities that characterise contemporary marketing.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Time: 11:00 am onwards

Venue: Radisson Blu Plaza, Mahipalpur, New Delhi

Adgully Founder and CEO Bijoya Ghosh said, As we embrace change, foster innovation, and anticipate future trends, CMOs Charcha is poised to be a pivotal moment for marketing professionals seeking to stay ahead in this dynamic and ever-evolving industry. It is more than an event; it is a transformative experience, meticulously crafted to redefine the very fabric of marketing discussions. In the flux of the modern business landscape, CMOs Charcha stands as a testament to Adgullys dedication to delivering an unparalleled and transformative experience.

CMOs Charcha  Delhi Chapter 2024 is presented by Times Network, and co-powered by Laqshya Media. Partners include ABP News (Gold Partner), VTION (Silver Partner) and Team Pumpkin (Agency Partner).
Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research

Bern, 22.01.2024 - The Marcel Benoist Foundation has awarded the Swiss Science Prize Marcel Benoist every year since 1920. This year the prize, which is endowed with CHF 250,000, will be awarded in the field of humanities and social sciences. Nominations can be submitted up to 4 March 2024.

The Swiss Science Prize Marcel Benoist is Switzerland's most prestigious research prize. It honours individuals with an outstanding professional career whose research work has originated mainly in Switzerland and has made a significant contribution to scientific knowledge and to society. To date eleven prizewinners have gone on to win the Nobel Prize.

The 2023 Marcel Benoist Prize having been awarded in the field of life sciences (biology and medicine), in 2024 renowned personalities in Swiss research can be nominated who are active in the humanities and social sciences.

The winners of the Swiss Science Prizes Marcel Benoist and Latsis will receive their awards at a joint award ceremony of the two foundations in the presence of Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin, which will be held on 7 November 2024 in the National Council Chamber of the Federal Palace. The prizewinners will be made known to the public in September.

Nominations to be submitted by 4 March 2024

The Marcel Benoist Foundation has appointed the Swiss National Science Foundation SNSF to evaluate nominations and to select the prizewinner on behalf of the Foundation Board. Researchers, representatives of higher education institutions, research institutions and other institutions under public or private law may nominate researchers who are resident in Switzerland and work at least 50% at a Swiss research institution. The majority of the relevant research work must have been carried out while working in Switzerland. You will find all nomination information on the website of the Marcel Benoist Foundation.

Nominations can be submitted on the website of the Marcel Benoist Foundation immediately until 4 March: https://marcel-benoist.ch/en/nomination-2024.

The Marcel Benoist Foundation

The Marcel Benoist Foundation was established in 1920 when the Federal Council accepted Marcel Benoist's legacy. Since 2018, it has been set up as a public-private partnership: The foundation is supported by a Patronage Committee with private donors. The Federal Council elects the members of the Board of Trustees from the worlds of science and economics; the Head of the EAER awards the prize; and the EAER / State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) provides the Foundation Secretariat. In addition, the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) selects the prizewinner for the Board of Trustees. At the beginning of 2023, the chairmanship passed from the head of the EAER to Nobel Laureate Didier Queloz.

Address for enquiries

EAER Communications

058 462 20 07

info@gs-wbf.admin.ch

Publisher

Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research

http://www.wbf.admin.ch




Senior Congress leader Milind Deora on Sunday announced his resignation from the partys primary membership. He is likely to join the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde this afternoon, said sources.

Milind, son of Congress veteran Murli Deora, confirmed his resignation in a post on X, and stated, Today marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in my political journey. I have tendered my resignation from the primary membership of @INCIndia, ending my familys 55-year relationship with the party. I am grateful to all leaders, colleagues & karyakartas for their unwavering support over the years, he added.

Today marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in my political journey. I have tendered my resignation from the primary membership of @INCIndia, ending my familys 55-year relationship with the party.



I am grateful to all leaders, colleagues & karyakartas for their  Milind Deora |    (@milinddeora) January 14, 2024

Milind Deora has served as Union Minister of State for Communications and Information Technology and Shipping during the Congress tenure from 2012 to 2014. He was also a former president of Mumbai Pradesh Congress Committee.

He also expressed his displeasure over the Shiv Sena (UBT) claiming the Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency, which Deora had represented earlier.
A dispute erupted between two communities on Mira Road near Mumbai just before the Ram Mandirs Pran Pratishtha ceremony began. The conflict began over sloganeering in the Naya Nagar area of Mira Road, which is adjacent to Mumbai.

According to a report in the news agency PTI, the incident occurred at around 10.30 pm on Sunday when a group of 10 to 12 people in three cars and on as many motorcycles were carrying out a rally from Naya Nagar under Mira Bhayandar police jurisdiction and chanted slogans in praise of Lord Ram, ahead of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya.

The cars were attacked in the middle of the road, according to viral videos of the incident. The attackers broke glasses and hurled insults. Afternoon Voice could not independently verify the veracity of the video.

Mira Road in North Mumbai. Vehicles carrying the Ram flag were attacked by the peaceful community, raised slogans and attacked. pic.twitter.com/c4ALCiVon5  Wellu (@Wellutwt) January 21, 2024

According to the information received by the police officials, the incident occurred around 11 pm on Sunday. Some people travelling in 34 vehicles were raising slogans. An argument with the people of another community broke out, and consequently, crowds from both communities gathered, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jayant Bajbale told ANI.

After receiving word on the incident, police immediately reached the spot and took the miscreants into custody. In view of the incident, a large number of police forces were deployed in the area. Currently, the situation has been brought under control, and a flag march was conducted to maintain peace in the area, said DCP Jayant Bajbale.

Naya Nagar Police filed a case against five people and arrested them. The police have appealed to the residents of Mira Road not to pay attention to rumours.
Image: PTI

The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned till January 29 the hearing on Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadavs petition seeking transfer of the criminal defamation complaint pending against him in a Ahmedabad court over his alleged only Gujaratis can be thugs remark to a place outside the state, preferably Delhi.

A bench of Justices A S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan deferred the matter after the counsel for the complainant sought time.

Why should the prosecution continue when he has withdrawn the statement. You seek instructions otherwise we will exercise powers under Article 142, the bench said.

The counsel for the respondent seeks time to seek instructions on statement filed by the petitioner (Yadav) on January 19. List on next Monday, the top court recorded in its order.

The top court, while hearing the RJD leaders plea, had earlier stayed the proceedings in the criminal defamation complaint and issued notice to the Gujarat resident who has filed it.

The complaint against Yadav was filed under sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for alleged criminal defamation. The Gujarat court had in August conducted a preliminary enquiry against Yadav under section 202 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and found sufficient grounds to summon him on the complaint filed by Haresh Mehta, a local businessman and activist.

According to the complaint, Yadav, while talking to the media in Patna in March 2023, had said, Only Gujaratis can be thugs in the present situation, and their fraud will be forgiven. Who will be responsible if they run away with the money belonging to the LIC or banks? the Bihar Deputy CM had allegedly asked.

Mehta claimed Yadavs comments defamed all Gujaratis.
The ruling and the main opposition parties on Monday announced the recruitment of a former Samsung Electronics executive and a former Hyundai Motor executive, respectively, as talents for April's general elections.

Koh Dong-jin, a former president of Samsung Electronics known for boosting the Samsung Galaxy brand, joined the ruling People Power Party (PPP), while Kong Young-woon, a former president at Hyundai Motor, joined the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK).

During a welcoming ceremony at the National Assembly, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon took out a Galaxy smartphone, instead of the iPhone he usually uses, and took a selfie with Koh. Party officials said Han has tried hard to recruit Koh.

"(Koh) is a symbol of the Republic of Korea's IT development over the past 40 years," Han said of the progress Korea has made in the information technology sector. "He is the one who elevated the Galaxy so that its ad in Times Square in New York can continue to remain there."

Koh is widely expected to run for a parliamentary seat in Suwon, south of Seoul, considered home to Samsung Electronics, but Koh declined to give further details, saying the matter is something to be reviewed after discussions with the party's leadership.

On the same day, the DPK recruited Kong Young-woon.

The journalist-turned-businessman spearheaded the establishment of an overseas policy team at Hyundai Motor that helped the carmaker secure a stable supply chain network and effectively respond to global issues, the DPK said.

"We have to recruit people like former President Kong, who realized big achievements in the economy, and have them play big roles in policymaking and lawmaking," DPK Chairman Lee Jae-myung said. "I hope he will play a big role in the areas of production base and business policy."

Kong said he wants to run for parliament and will decide on a constituency after discussions with the party. (Yonhap)




A court order has closed Unique bar on University Boulevard in Tuscaloosa.

Passersby can see the bars entrance closed with yellow Caution tape covering the door and several court documents explaining the closing. A grease board nearby still bears prices of drink specials.

According to court documents, the bar was ordered closed in December in Tuscaloosa Circuit Court following action by the Alabama Department of Labor against the bars owners, Royale Service and Hospitality.

The court fined the bars owners $3,100, plus court costs, for not providing proof of workers compensation insurance.

There is no word yet on when the bar may reopen. Attempts to contact the owners for comment were not immediately successful.

Unique opened in 2021, replacing Egans, a legendary dive bar located in the heart of the Strip after 42 years of operation.
Seven people have been sentenced in a counterfeit U.S. Treasury Bond scheme that cost Alabama financial institutions more than $1 million in losses.

Middle District of Alabama Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ross announced the sentencings Monday and said the defendants created and passed dozens of counterfeit bonds beginning in 2021.

Zachary Lee Hale, a 38-year-old Daleville man, in 2021 began making the fake bond certificates and redeeming them at credit unions and banks in the Wiregrass area.

Once he figured out that his scheme was successful, authorities said, Hale recruited at least six others to join him and pass more counterfeit bonds.

Court documents indicate that Hale and his co-conspirators were responsible for at least $1,093,911 in loss to various financial institutions.

Hale pleaded guilty to bank fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States in October.

On Jan. 17, he was sentenced to 92 months  nearly eight years  in prison, followed by three years of supervised released.

Also sentenced on Jan. 17 were:

 Stephanie Jean Abercrombie, 42, of Daleville, Alabama, was sentenced to 42 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank fraud and conspiracy to defraud the U.S.

 David Michael Penuel, 45, of Kinston, received a sentence of 18 months, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank fraud.

 Joni Marie Andrews, 43, also from Kinston, was sentenced to one year in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States.

 Marsha Renee Skeen, 52, another resident of Daleville, received a sentence of one year of probation following a guilty plea to misprision of a felony. That means she failed to report knowledge of a felony to authorities.

 Timothy Bryant Baxter, 45, of Troy, was sentenced to six months of home confinement as a condition of two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to bank fraud conspiracy to defraud the U.S.

On Nov. 8, 2023, Joseph Fletcher Lee, Jr., 48, originally from Marianna, Florida, received a sentence of three years in in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank fraud and conspiracy to defraud the U.S.

Lee was also involved in Hales scheme, authorities said.

All of the defendants were ordered to pay restitution for the amount of loss they caused.
More than 130 pastors, ministers, and faith leaders endorsed a letter delivered to Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday urging the governor to stop the first-ever execution by nitrogen hypoxia, scheduled for Thursday in Alabama.

We urge you to immediately pause the scheduled execution of Kenneth Smith, scheduled for January 25th, and demand greater transparency around the use of nitrogen hypoxia, says the letter, whose supporters represented more than a dozen Christian denominations, as well as leaders from the Jewish and Muslim faiths.

Please do not let Alabama proceed with the untested and risky execution method. Gods Word is clear: all life is precious. Where there is life, there is hope.

Pam Bye, director of constituent services for Ivey, accepted the letter in the hallway of the State Capitol outside the governors office.

The state is scheduled to execute Kenneth Eugene Smith during a 30-hour window that starts at 12 a.m. Thursday. A redacted protocol of the new execution method calls for the inmate to breathe nitrogen through a mask, depriving him of oxygen. The protocol says nitrogen will be administered for 15 minutes, or five minutes following a flatline indication on the EKG, whichever is longer.

The Legislature approved nitrogen hypoxia executions in 2018. No state has ever used the method and Alabama was silent about how it would work until releasing the redacted protocol in August 2023 when the attorney generals office asked the Alabama Supreme Court to authorize Smiths execution.

Smith is asking federal courts to block the execution. In a case before the U.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appeals, Smiths lawyers argue that Alabamas plan for carrying out the execution carries uncertainties and risks, including that air could leak in around the mask and prolong the execution or cause suffering short of death, such as leaving Smith in a vegetative state or causing a stroke. They also raised the concern that Smith could vomit into the mask during the execution and choke.

Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour told the court the method would be painless and humane. He cited the statements from an expert witness who has assisted in nitrogen hypoxia suicides.

Smiths spiritual advisor, Rev. Jeff Hood, who plans to pray with Smith in the execution chamber, has raised concerns about the potential hazards of the procedure. Hoods lawyer sent a letter to the warden at Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, where the execution is scheduled to take place, demanding safeguards for him and others who will be in the chamber.

His list of demands included the availability of oxygen sources for those in the chamber and having paramedics and ambulances at the prison in case of an emergency.

The faith leaders, in their letter delivered on Monday, raised the same concerns.

As you know, nitrogen hypoxia is an untested and experimental procedure that poses potential undue risks to spiritual advisors who wish to accompany the condemned individual in the execution chamber, and other prison personnel and witnesses, they wrote.

The letter later says, We share the belief that the spiritual journey at the end of ones life is sacrosanct and needless suffering at the hands of the State where we live and worship demands our response.

Smith was twice convicted by juries for the murder-for-hire of Elizabeth Dorlene Sennett in her home in Colbert County in north Alabama in 1988. Sennett, a pastors wife, was beaten and stabbed repeatedly. Smith, who was hired by the victims husband to commit the slaying, confessed to his role in the crime and has been on death row since 1996.

Alabama tried to execute Smith by lethal injection in November 2022 but called off the procedure because the execution team could not start the intravenous lines for the injections. Smith claimed he suffered physical and psychological pain because he was strapped to a gurney and poked with needles for several hours during the unsuccessful attempt to tap his veins.

In a lawsuit seeking to block a second attempt at lethal injection, Smith said the state had an alternative in nitrogen hypoxia. At the time of the lawsuit, it was unclear when the protocol would be ready. Smiths lawyers say he still believes nitrogen hypoxia is a potential alternative but that the states protocol does not adequately safeguard against potential failures in the plan.

Speaking on the Capitol steps Monday morning before carrying the letter to the governors office, Rev. Shane Isner of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Montgomery, mentioned the biblical story of Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus before the crucifixion.

We urge our governor, remembering another governor in my religious tradition who was in a hurry to wash his hands of someone elses life, we ask this governor to pause this execution, Isner said. Why be in such a hurry to execute this man? Its not needed. Prisoners are not guinea pigs. They remain made in Gods image. A God, we remind you, who is not in a hurry to judge, to condemn, execute. And so we shouldnt be either.
A Cobb County, Georgia judge on Monday will hear arguments about whether Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis must testify in the divorce case of a colleague with whom shes been accused of having a romantic relationship.

Superior Court Judge Henry Thompson will also consider whether to unseal the divorce case involving Nathan Wade, the special prosecutor who has helped lead the Donald Trump election interference case for more than two years, and his estranged wife, Joycelyn Wade.

The closely watched hearing will help determine whether potentially damaging information about the prosecutors ends up in the hands of the media, defense attorneys and critics of the racketeering case. Opponents of the prosecution are hoping it contains details that could help undermine the probe.

Ashleigh Merchant, an attorney for defendant Mike Roman who made the allegations about Willis and Wade in a court filing earlier this month, will argue in favor of making the records public at the 11:30 a.m. hearing. Shes indicated they contain evidence about the prosecutors alleged personal relationship.

A coalition of 15 media organizations, including The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, have also filed a motion calling for the records to be unsealed, arguing its in the public interest.

In a statement issued Sunday, Merchant quoted the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis who once wrote that sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants. The cornerstone of our justice system and our democratic process demands that the public have full access to court records in all but a very few limited circumstances, and this is not one of them, she added.

On Friday, an attorney for Joycelyn Wade appeared to bolster Merchants claims by producing some of Nathan Wades credit card statements. They showed that he purchased airline tickets for himself and Willis for trips to San Francisco, Miami and Aruba in 2022 and 2023.

Merchant is seeking to have the charges dismissed against Roman, a former Trump campaign operative, and for Willis and the entire Fulton DAs office removed from the case. She contended that the alleged relationship was improper because Willis financially benefited from the vacations paid for by Wade, whos earned roughly $654,000 in legal fees for his work on the election case.

Headlines have swirled for two weeks without a direct response from Willis or Nathan Wade. That vacuum has allowed critics of the probe, including Trump himself, to spread claims about the veteran prosecutor, her decision-making and the validity of the underlying case.

A Willis spokesman has said the she would respond to Romans allegations in a formal court filing, which is due by Feb. 2. The DA broke her silence on the matter during an impassioned speech at Atlantas Big Bethel AME Church last weekend, during which she described herself as a very flawed, hard-headed and imperfect person. She also defended Wades credentials and suggested critics were attacking her and Wade because they are Black. Wade has not responded to requests for comment.

Fulton Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee, who is overseeing the Trump case, has scheduled an evidentiary hearing about Romans allegations on Feb. 15. Merchant said she plans to call witnesses.

Mondays hearing surrounding the Wades divorce was originally scheduled for the end of the month but was moved up due to a mushrooming fight over Willis deposition, which has been scheduled for Tuesday.

Willis moved to quash the subpoena from Joycelyn Wades attorney last week, arguing she did not provide a relevant reason for deposing her. The DAs attorney, Cinque Axam, accused Joycelyn Wade of trying to obstruct the Trump case and conspiring with the cases critics to use the civil discovery process to annoy, embarrass and oppress District Attorney Willis.

Because the parties agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken and the concept of fault is not at issue, there is no information that District Attorney Willis could provide that might prove relevant to granting or denying the divorce, Axam argued.

Joycelyn Wades attorney, Andrea Dyer Hastings, said her client wants to depose Willis to get pertinent information from her husbands paramour regarding their relationship as well as his financial involvement in that relationship. Her response added, These answers are relevant to the equitable division of the marital estate, dissipation of marital assets and (Nathan Wades) capacity to provide spousal support.

Depositions are transcribed and sometimes recorded. If Willis is compelled to go forward with the sworn testimony its possible her comments could end up becoming public.

The allegations have raised questions about whether the Trump case is damaged.

Clark Cunningham, a law professor at Georgia State University, said Friday that Willis may want to consider taking a leave from the DAs office, allowing one of her chief deputies to assume control over the case and decide whether to continue Nathan Wades contract.

A decision to take a voluntary leave could be considered to be in the public interest, he said.

Norm Eisen, who worked as White House ethics czar during the Obama administration, said theres no legal basis under Georgia law for either Willis or Wade to be disqualified from the case. But he said it would be wise for Wade to voluntarily step aside, despite his long record of successes for this team.

It would be a first and perhaps the most important measure that the DAs office can take to restore a focus on the overwhelming evidence of potential criminal liability in this case, Eisen, who has long defended the case, told reporters on Saturday.

2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Firefighter are battling a blaze that sent a plume of smoke over downtown Birmingham.

The fire broke out Sunday afternoon in a vacant, two-story building at 1331 First Avenue North.

Fire swept through a vacant, two-story building at 1331 First Avenue North.(Contributed)

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Battalion Chief Clay Hendon said the structure has been empty for some time and has previously burned.

No injuries have been reported.
Terrifying gatorcicles were found suspended in a North Carolina swamp when temperatures dropped into the teens, photos show.

The frozen alligators were recorded at The Swamp Park, a coastal tourist attraction that allows humans to spy on alligators in the wild. The alligator sanctuary is about 175 miles south of Raleigh, near Ocean Isle Beach.

Their pond that they live in has frozen, park manager George Howard noted in a Jan. 21 Facebook post.

Thick enough for these guys to do what they do, which is stick their nose up out of the ice so that they can breathe, and suspend themselves in the water.

The rarely witnessed adaptation allows alligators to survive cold snaps while frozen in place.

Passersby saw only snouts and teeth  really big teeth  sticking out of the murky ice.

Its considered an extreme form of brumation, the less-restrictive reptile version of winter hibernation, experts say. They wake up to drink water and bask in the sun on warm winter days.

North Carolina is the northernmost range of the American alligator, due to the extreme cold experienced in states farther north.

The 65-acre Swamp Park made international news in 2018 when it became one of the first sites in the world to document alligators had mysteriously found a way to adapt to sudden freezes. The alligators can stay frozen in place for days at a time, the park found.

Temperatures fell to 17 degrees in Ocean Isle Beach on the day the video was recorded, the park reported.

The parks alligators seemed to instinctively know when the water was about to freeze. They positioned themselves at just the right moment, closed their eyes, and allowed the water to harden around them.

They are fully aware. But very slow, the park reported.

A park staffer recorded himself visiting multiple gatorcicles throughout the swamp, and likened their protruding snouts to a cute little danger snorkel.

The parks videos had been viewed more than 50,000 times as of Jan. 22, and gotten hundreds of reactions.

You would think those gators are dead, Toddquesha Kenny wrote on Facebook.

Five thousand dollars for anyone to walk on top of that ice. You have to walk over the top of that gator for the money, Joseph Virtuoso Hawkins posted.

Multiple commenters also dared the park to boop the snoot of an alligator, just to see if it reacted.

One staffer recorded video of himself doing just that, but he didnt linger to see if the gator opened its eyes.

Dont do this at home, the staffer said in the video. Never in my life did I think Id do that.

2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Eleven counties in Alabama have HIV rates considerably higher than the national averages, according to a recent study from the University of Alabama.

Researchers looked at Medicaid data to find which parts of the state have elevated HIV rates and found that three Black Belt counties are severe hot spots, with rates more than doubling even the states average, Perry, Dallas and Lowndes Counties.

The purpose of the study was to understand the characteristics and demographics of where HIV is spreading the most in Alabama. Researchers found that the Black belt counties with the highest rates of HIV were not the poorest or least educated in the state, although poverty and educational attainment were challenges.

Researched looked at 9.861 Medicaid recipients across all counties in the state to learn where HIV rates are the highest.

More research is needed to understand why HIV hot spots continue, said study author Dr. Karen Johnson, a social work professor from the University of Alabama.

She said access to preventative HIV drugs are likely reasons along with stigma about the disease.

It is not uncommon for someone in the Black Belt who is living with HIV to travel hours to try to get HIV medication, not because they couldnt get medication closer to home, but because of the stigma associated with it, said Johnson.

In Alabama and across the nation, HIV has long been spread at high rates in communities of color, said Johnson. She said that is likely due to a discomfort with treatment providers due to a history of problematic care.

Access to care is incredibly vital (along with) information that is reliable and from trusted sources, she said.

The population of Alabamas three hot spot counties is majority Black. Perry County is 67.9 Black, Dallas is 70.5 and Lowndes is 72.5 percent Black according to the study.

According to Johnson, studies have long shown regional differences in HIV outcomes. In Mississippi, for example, HIV rates are highest in urban areas whereas in Alabama they are highest in rural counties. Nationally, HIV rates have been falling, due to the availability of preventative drugs. In some hot spots, like Alabamas, however rates are rising. Johnson said many people dont realize such drugs exist.

While the national HIV Medicaid claims rate is 11.5 per 100,000 recipients, Alabamas average rate is much higher at 67.9 per 100,000. Eleven Alabama counties have rates higher than 100 per 100,000. In Perry County HIV the claims rate is 178.29 per 100,000, in Dallas it was 224.72 per 100,000 and in Lowndes it was 139.81 per 100,000.
The Alabama Democratic Partys vice-chair for minority affairs accused President Joe Bidens re-election campaign of handpicking personal Delegates in a letter sent earlier this month.

Joe Reed, who also serves as the director of the Alabama Democratic Conference, a mostly-Black organization, accused the campaign of setting a goal of [reducing] Black voter influence on Election Day, and suggested legal action could follow.

I wish to impress upon you that your attempt to eliminate seventy-four dedicated, loyal, and loving Democratic Delegates pledged to the Biden/Harris nomination at the Democratic National Convention is totally unacceptable and, in all due respect, will be resisted in every possible way, including going into federal court, Reed wrote in the Jan. 10 letter, obtained by the Alabama Reflector.

Reed wrote that the move was an insult to Black voters in Alabama.

More from Alabama Reflector

In a phone interview Friday morning, Reed said he doesnt believe this is coming from Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris, but a rat.

I got my own ideas, he said. But I dont know enough about it. But I smell a rat.

The delegate selection plan that the state party last year approved and submitted to the National Democratic Committee instructed Alabama Democratic Party chair Randy Kelley to provide a list of delegates committed to voting for Biden at the Democratic National Convention next year. The state party met Dec. 2, 2023, submitting 108 party members to Bidens campaign.

The Biden campaign picked 34 members for district level candidates. Since Alabamas party delegate system is broken into two phases, more delegates  public and elected officials and other party members  will be selected by the presidential campaign in late May, for a total of 59 delegates.

Kelley also submitted Bidens campaign delegate selection to the Alabama Secretary of State, which was received on Dec. 20, and finalized the first phase of the delegation selection process.

Biden and U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minnesota, will be on the Alabama primary ballot on March 5.

Reed claims that the campaign discriminated against Democratic Black voters when they picked 19 Black district level delegates out of 34. The Biden campaign has a chance to reach the diversity goal of 61% Black delegates, for a total of 36 candidates, in the second phase.

There were 74 people scratched. They were Biden delegates. Theyre supposed to be elected by the people in the seven congressional districts of Alabama. These folks are being appointed indirectly, he said.

The state party could have appealed the Biden campaigns choices to the DNC by Dec. 9. A request for comment was left with the DNC on Friday.

Its unclear why the Biden campaign picked 34 delegates to run for 34 spots, but the campaign maintained it was following Alabamas Democratic party rules.

The campaign followed and complied with the DNC and Alabama Democratic Party rules as outlined in their Delegate Selection Plan. Were proud of the diverse slate of delegates we have put forward and look forward to continuing to work with Democrats in Alabama to support President Bidens reelection, Daniel Wessel, a spokesperson for Bidens reelection campaign said in a statement.

Under the Alabama Delegation Plan, the campaign is acting within the rules issued by the state party. According to the delegate selection rules, the candidate may approve a number of delegate candidates or alternate candidates equal to or greater than the number of delegates or alternates allocated to the district.

In 2008, Barack Obama, who had won the Alabama Democratic presidential primary, dropped 18 delegates to the national convention, which allowed him to pick the remaining delegates in the second round delegate elections.

Kelley said delegates not picked by the campaign are being robbed of the opportunity to serve as delegates, but he didnt wholly blame the Biden campaign. He said the people were robbed by some internal forces in the party.

I think it was some shenanigans going on behind the scenes, and Im not going to share too much information at this time. But I think thats basically what was happening, he said.

The Alabama Democratic Party has been in conflict with the DNC since May, when party officials, led by Reed and Kelley, passed new bylaws eliminating diversity caucuses.

After the May meeting, which many claim was not administered according to the bylaws, members of the affected caucuses, some of whom are Black, sharply criticized the moves, saying they stripped key groups of representation. Another complaint came over a $50 qualifying fee charged by party officials to enter the meeting, which several State Democratic Executive Committee members said they had not been informed about previously and which some called a poll tax.

The party must have new bylaws in place by Feb. 1.

In Reeds letter, he states that Whoever persuaded [the campaign] to eliminate seventy-four pledged Biden-Harris delegates  is playing a dangerous game. You never consulted or informed the State Chair of your plot. This is unconscionable and unpardonable.

Despite the threat of legal action, Reed said Friday that he thinks the issue can be resolved internally.

The bottom line is it can be fixed and theyll have to fix it, Reed said.
Lawyers for Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith, who is scheduled to be the first person ever executed by nitrogen hypoxia this week, have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review whether the execution will violate the Constitution because it is the states second attempt to execute Smith and because the first was botched for reasons the state should have foreseen.

On Thursday, Smiths lawyers asked the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay to block the execution, scheduled to happen in a 30-hour window between 12 a.m. Thursday and 6 a.m. on Friday.

The state tried to execute Smith by lethal injection in November 2022 but called off the procedure because the execution team could not start the intravenous lines. The same thing had happened with the attempted execution of Allen Eugene Miller in September 2022. And the execution of Joe Nathan James in July 2022 was delayed for several hours and raised questions about problems with accessing his veins.

Lawyers for Smith said the state should have known it would encounter problems starting the IV lines in his execution but went ahead with the execution anyway. Because of that, they questioned whether a second attempt would be unconstitutional following a first attempt they characterized as cruel.

It is uncontroverted that ADOC inflicted actual physical and psychological pain on Mr. Smith by repeatedly trying (and failing) to establish IV access through his arms, hands, and by a central line as he was strapped to a gurney for hours, Smiths lawyers said in their request to the Supreme Court. Mr. Smiths was the third consecutive execution that ADOC botched or aborted for that same reason. ADOCs failed attempt to execute Mr. Smith caused him severe physical pain and psychological torment, including posttraumatic stress disorder.

Smiths lawyers asked the Supreme Court to address this question:

Does a second attempt to execute a condemned person following a single, cruelly willful attempt to execute that same person violate the prohibition against cruel and unusual punishments under the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution?

According to Smiths request to the Supreme Court, the court has only once previously considered whether it violated the Constitution for a state to try to execute a person for a second time after a failed first attempt. That case involved a Louisiana inmate who had survived an electric chair execution because of an apparent mechanical failure. In a 5-4 decision, the court ruled that the second attempt would not violate the 8th Amendment prohibition on cruel and unusual punishments.

Smiths lawyers cited in their brief to the court a statement by one of the justices in his opinion siding with the majority in that 1947 decision. Justice Felix Frankfurter wrote that the decision not to block the second execution attempt in that case does not mean that a hypothetical situation, which assumes a series of abortive attempts at electrocution or even a single, cruelly willful attempt, would not raise different questions.

Separately from his request for a stay to the Supreme Court, Smith has asked the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to block the execution because states never- used nitrogen hypoxia protocol carries risks of a prolonged death and suffering. Thats an appeal of the decision by U.S. District Judge Austin Huffaker Jr., who declined Smiths request to block the execution.

A three-judge panel of the appeals court heard arguments on Friday but has not issued a decision.

Smiths appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court questioning the constitutionality of a second execution attempt comes after Alabama courts, including the Alabama Supreme Court, rejected that argument.

Smith was twice convicted by juries for the murder-for-hire of Elizabeth Dorlene Sennett in her home in Colbert County in north Alabama in 1988. Sennett, a pastors wife, was beaten and stabbed repeatedly. Smith, who was hired by the victims husband to commit the slaying, confessed to his role in the crime and has been on death row since 1996.

The Alabama Legislature authorized the nitrogen hypoxia method as an alternative to lethal injection in 2018. The method has never been used by an state.

The state released a redacted protocol for how nitrogen hypoxia will work in August 2023, when it asked the Alabama Supreme Court for an order authorizing Smiths execution by that method. The inmate is to breathe only nitrogen through a mask, resulting in death from a lack of oxygen. The protocol says nitrogen will be administered for 15 minutes, or five minutes following a flatline indication on the EKG, whichever is longer.

Alabama Solicitor General Edmund LaCour told a three-judge panel of the 11th Circuit on Friday that the method would be painless and humane. Smiths lawyers said there is too much uncertainty about the protocol.

Related: Federal judge rules Alabamas nitrogen execution of Kenneth Smith can go forward
Dexter Scott King, the younger son of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, died Monday after battling prostate cancer.

The King Center in Atlanta, which Dexter King served as chairman, said the 62-year-old son of the civil rights icon died at his home in Malibu, California. His wife, Leah Weber King, said in a statement that he died peacefully in his sleep.

The third of the Kings four children, Dexter King was named for the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, where his father served as a pastor when the Montgomery bus boycott launched him to national prominence in the wake of the 1955 arrest of Rosa Parks.

Dexter King was just 7 years old when his father was assassinated in April 1968 while supporting striking sanitation workers in Memphis, Tennessee. In his 2004 memoir, Growing Up King, Dexter King recalled his fathers slaying as the end of a carefree childhood.

Ever since I was seven, Ive felt I must be formal, he wrote, adding: Formality, seriousness, certitude  all these are difficult poses to maintain, even if youre a person with perfect equilibrium, with all the drama life throws at you.

As an adult, Dexter King became an attorney and focused on shepherding his fathers legacy and protecting the King familys intellectual property. In addition to serving as chairman of the King Center, he was also president of the King estate.

In addition to his work with the King Center, Dexter King was known for the striking resemblance he bore to his father. They looked so much alike that the son ended up portraying his famous father in a 2002 TV movie about Parks.

Coretta Scott King died in 2006, followed by the Kings oldest child, Yolanda King, in 2007.

Words cannot express the heart break I feel from losing another sibling, the Rev. Bernice A. King, the youngest of the four, said in a statement.

His older brother, Martin Luther King III, said: The sudden shock is devastating. It is hard to have the right words at a moment like this. We ask for your prayers at this time for the entire King family.
Han Dong-hoon rejects president's request to step down

By Nam Hyun-woo

Internal strife has resurfaced within the ruling People Power Party (PPP) as President Yoon Suk Yeol conveyed his intention for the party's interim leader, Han Dong-hoon, to step down. However, Han, the former justice minister, who is also known as one of the president's most-trusted confidants, promptly rejected the proposal.

The presidential office and Yoon's loyalists within the party are pointing to what they claim are Han's "controversial recommendations" of specific candidates for particular constituencies in the upcoming general elections. However, the broader interpretation of the feud suggests that Yoon's discontent stems from the PPP's growing criticism of controversies surrounding first lady Kim Keon Hee.

As Han resists resigning, the PPP's campaign for the general elections seems to be encountering turbulence, with only 79 days remaining until the voting takes place.

On his way to the National Assembly, Han told reporters, As far as I know, my term continues after the general elections. He added, I will not speak about details because I rejected the resignation request.

I believe the April 10 general elections are extremely important for the future of this country and its people, said Han, who took the helm of the ruling partys interim leadership Dec. 26 as part of the PPPs bid to appoint a new leader and improve its electoral prospects.

"I assumed this position with the determination to invest all my efforts, and I believe I have given my best thus far. I am committed to showcasing the party's transformation to the public, aiming to prevent the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) from causing hardship to the people and jeopardizing the country's future," he said.

Han's remarks followed reports that a senior presidential secretary, along with several influential figures in the PPP, held a meeting with him. During the meeting, the presidential office conveyed Yoon's intention for Han to resign from the position.

Sources at the party and the presidential office said Han's recent public endorsements of Kim Kyung-yul, a member of the PPP's interim leadership committee, and Won Hee-ryong, the former land minister, as candidates for Mapo B and Incheon Gyeyang B constituencies, respectively, are considered "problematic."

Citing an unnamed source, broadcaster Channel A reported that Yoon told his staff that Han's public endorsement of Kim for the Mapo B constituency on Jan. 17 was perceived as "bid rigging." Yoon reportedly said Han should "consult with the heavyweights in recommending candidates."

However, many pundits say the PPP's escalating criticism of the first lady is the underlying factor. Last week, Han remarked that the allegation involving the first lady receiving a Christian Dior handbag from a Korean American pastor in 2022 could be "a matter of public concern." He also noted there were "several misdeeds in handling the issue," although it was later revealed that the incident was a planned set-up using a spycam.

"Voice of Seoul," a liberal YouTube-based news channel, claimed in November that the first lady had received a Christian Dior handbag valued at around 3 million won ($2,240) from the pastor in September of 2022. The channel released video footage of the incident, which was clandestinely filmed by the pastor using a hidden camera.

Following the incident, Kim, the interim leadership committee member, drew a comparison between the first lady and Marie Antoinette, the 17th-century queen of France whose lavish lifestyle played a role in triggering the French Revolution. Kim urged the presidential couple to provide an explanation. Additionally, several party members, who joined after Han assumed leadership, also called for an apology from the first lady.

The raised voices created a stir among the Yoon loyalists within the PPP. On Sunday, PPP Rep. Lee Yong, who served as Yoons personal secretary when he was president elect, posted a news article claiming that Yoon voiced his disappointment with Han on a Telegram chatroom of PPP lawmakers.

However, PPP Secretary-General Rep. Jang Dong-hyeok criticized this move. In a radio interview with broadcaster KBS, he stated, "The discussion between the presidential office and the party was reported by the press without screening, and this was posted on the chatroom of lawmakers." He emphasized that such communication is "undesirable and unhealthy."

PPP Rep. Tae Yong-ho also said in an interview with broadcaster Channel A that he is against Hans resignation. I think Yoon and first lady Kim making a public apology is an option, he said.

On the other hand, Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, who is also a PPP member, wrote on Facebook, Monday, The partys leader will be expelled when he or she loses the trust of the party. Hong also criticized the comparison between the first lady and Marie Antoinette.

Against this backdrop, Yoon decided to cancel his participation in a town hall meeting with citizens on deregulation just 30 minutes before the event was scheduled to take place on Monday. Although the presidential office said Yoon has the flu, the decision was widely interpreted as an expression of his displeasure with Han's resistance. This is notable given that the president has been actively involved in previous sessions of the town hall meetings, personally presiding over them.

The feud between Yoon and Han is anticipated to deal a hefty blow to the PPPs election campaigns, because conflicts are anticipated to escalate between Yoon loyalists, former officials at the presidential office and newcomers recruited by Han in the process of the ruling partys candidate recommendations and nominations.

Moreover, conflicts between Yoon and Han could potentially fuel criticism that the president is attempting to influence the upcoming general elections.

Main opposition DPK Chairman Lee Jae-myung told reporters Monday that Yoons action constitutes blatant interference in the general elections, adding (the PPP) should pay attention to the public's livelihood rather than to an argument between Yoon and Han.

In a YouTube interview with a journalist from OhmyNews, Lee Jun-seok, former PPP chairman and the current head of the of the Reformist New Party, said the conflict between Yoon and Han is a scripted sparring match aimed at giving Han greater momentum.
The White House has announced plans to cancel some $5 billion in student loan debt for some 74,000 borrowers.

Of those, nearly 44,000 of them were teachers, nurses, firefighters or other individuals who earned forgiveness after 10 years of public service, with close to 30,000 involving people who have been making payments for at least 20 years but never got the relief they earned through income-driven repayment plans, the White House said in a statement.

The most recent loan forgiveness efforts include $1.7 billion for 29,700 borrowers through whats described as administrative adjustments to Income-Driven Repayment plans. Another $3.2 billion in loan forgiveness will go to 43,900 borrowers covered by changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

The latest round of forgiveness comes on the heels of another announcement from the administration that it would fast track loan forgiveness through early implementation of the Saving on Valuable Education, or SAVE, plan for those who originally took out $12,000 or less for college

Those who are enrolled in SAVE and are eligible for early forgiveness will have their debts automatically cancelled starting next month, months ahead of schedule, with no action needed, the administration said.
The public comment period for a proposed quarry in Belle Mina has been extended to early February.

Alabama Department of Environmental Management official Ron Gore said a public hearing is also tentatively scheduled for March 7 at Calhoun Community College on whether permits should be granted for the proposed limestone quarry at 7440 Mooresville Rd.
Giving those sentenced under Alabamas habitual offender act, which activists say bloats the states already overcrowded prisons, a second chance at parole is one of the top priorities for one advocacy group when the states legislature begins Feb. 6.

Elliot Spillers, a representative from criminal legal reform advocacy nonprofit Alabama Appleseed, detailed the organizations legislative goals for the upcoming legislative session at an event in Fairhope on Thursday. The groups agenda includes pushing for those sentenced to life without parole to have a chance for their sentence to be reviewed if they were sentenced under the Habitual Felony Offender Act, which increases punishments for repeat offenders.

Alabama Appleseed introduced the Second Chance Bill last session, but efforts stalled.

(The bill) will ideally impact hundreds of individuals who are currently incarcerated, Spillers said. If youve looked at the news recently, you are aware that our prisons are highly overpopulated, and they are inhumane.

Spillers was among advocates, Alabama civil rights leaders and one state legislator gathered with over 50 citizens in Fairhope on Thursday night to talk shop about legislative priorities.

The community event, themed sharing our vision for a better Alabama, was sponsored by Alabama Arise, the League of Women Voters of Baldwin County and NAACP Baldwin County at the Fairhope Unitarian Fellowship.

Issues of the evening included Medicaid expansion, maternal and infant care, criminal justice reform, and voting rights.

The lone legislator in attendance, State Representative Jennifer Fidler (R-Fairhope), faced wide-ranging, challenging questions from her District 94 constituents about topics ranging from voter access to Medicare and library boards. Fidler, who was formerly Fairhopes public works director, was elected Nov. 8, 2022.

Fidler mostly spoke about updates to the Education Trust Fund and a few of her present legislative priorities, including Baldwin County Board of Equalization pay raises and shoreline strengthening projects, but she admitted she wasnt prepared to discuss the details of all of her goals.

The Q&A portion of the event largely focused on Fidler, who was met with frustration by some of the crowd as she detailed her policy positions and conceded that shed need to take extra time to review some of the topics she was asked about. Other leaders, however, commended her for her attendance.

This concept that she can know everything in the bills is not real, said David Stout, legislative affairs coordinator at Alabama Arise, explaining to attendees that the most impressive thing is that she came at all. It is sad that more legislators werent here. It used to be that with crowds this big, every legislator would be here.

Anne Johnson, a member of the League of Women Voters, said she wished she walked away with a little more information from the representative, but she was uplifted to see the events attendance.

It shows theyre out here, she said. There are people who care about their community, care about progressive issues.

Updated Jan. 25, 2024 at 9:21 a.m. to revise a previous version of the article that said the Second Chance Act would repeal the Habitual Felony Offender Act. The Second Chance Act would not repeal the habitual offender legislation; rather, it would provide repeat offenders sentenced to life without parole the opportunity for their sentences to be reviewed.
Arrested years ago for marijuana, Christopher M. McClinton sleeps in an Alabama prison at night. He spends his days working at a fast food restaurant, slinging fries and milkshakes in a small town near the Gulf.

The state keeps about 40% of each of his paychecks. And the state will not grant him parole.

I dont know what they want him to do, said his mother, Willamener Gales.

Gales, along with McClintons pastor, spoke on her 38-year-old sons behalf at his parole hearing last August. He has a job, she said. He could live at her house, she said.

But the odds of getting a second chance are low in Alabama, and McClintons odds are worse than many others. Alabamas parole board denies Black men at a higher rate than any other group.

Gales only had two minutes to speak in front of the board last August - hardly enough time to tell them that her son was remorseful, that he needed to be home for his children, or that he had previously been allowed passes from prison to stay at her house on some weekends.

Their mind was made up before I went before them, she told AL.com.

McClinton, like Bud Hotchkiss, is serving time at the Loxley work release center for marijuana. He had just enough  over 2.2 pounds  for the state to charge him with trafficking.

He pleaded guilty in 2010 and was sentenced to 20 years and a $25,000 fine. He was ordered to spend the first three years in prison, getting released on probation in 2013.

McClinton was still on probation when, in 2016, police caught him with a small amount of codeine and charged him with possession of a controlled substance. He had missed a few drug tests in those three years and tested positive for drugs once, according to court records. So, a judge revoked McClintons probation, sending him back to prison to serve out the remaining 17 years on his marijuana sentence.

He also pleaded guilty to the codeine possession, and he got 10 years to serve at the same time on that charge.

Yet the state says, like the other thousands of low-risk prisoners in Alabama, hes fine to work in public most days.

At the parole board last summer, Gales spoke first.

She said that McClinton has worked at a fast-food restaurant in Foley for the past two years and his bosses have said they would let him keep his job if paroled. And, he would go home to live with his mom.

Gales told them her son had learned his lesson, that while he put himself in prison in the first place, hes remorseful and has been behind bars long enough to have been rehabilitated.

A sweeping lawsuit filed by prisoners and labor unions last month accuses Alabama of running a labor-trafficking scheme that generates millions of dollars each year for the state. More than 500 companies have contracts with the Alabama Department of Corrections to obtain work from inmates, the complaint said.

Labor coerced from Alabamas disproportionately Black incarcerated population is the fuel that fires ADOCs extremely lucrative profit-making engine, the lawsuit reads. McClinton isnt a plaintiff in that lawsuit.

Last year AL.com found Black men were being paroled less often and serving more of their sentences than white men.

I feel theyre prejudiced. Willamener Gales, mother of man denied parole

AL.com was able to gather detailed demographic information and case histories for 640 of the 662 people that came up for parole during a two-month window in April and May last year. Most of the people who got parole were white, despite most coming before the board being Black.

In the end, Black men were about 25% less likely to be paroled than white men during those two months.

However, just five years ago, most people in Alabama were granted parole. Thats now down to 8%.

In front of the parole board, McClintons pastor talked about taking the young man under his wing, mentoring him when he was able to come home on passes from the prison.

Then a representative from the Alabama Attorney Generals Office spoke about the 10 infractions McClinton had in prison. There is no chance for rebuttal. Hearings only last minutes, which each speaker getting just 120 seconds. Gales wasnt able to explain that almost all of those infractions were from nearly a decade ago. None were for violent offenses; the latest was for drinking.

He was angry at that time. Im not making excuses for him, she said. But things have changed.

The board voted to deny his parole. McClinton wont get another shot at freedom until August 2025; hes already served more than a decade behind bars on his drug offenses.

Gales said her son didnt understand why people who are charged with crimes that left someone hurt or even killed could spend less time in prison than he has for having a few pounds of pot, even though she made it clear she didnt condone her sons actions.

As for the parole board, she said: I feel theyre prejudiced.

This project was completed with the support of a grant from Columbia Universitys Ira A. Lipman Center for Journalism and Civil and Human Rights in conjunction with Arnold Ventures.
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Former governor of South Carolina and Trump Administration Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley is the rising star of the Republican race for the nomination this summer.

While former Pres. Donald Trump had a runaway victory in Iowa, Haleys campaign said they expect a stronger showing this week in New Hampshire. Poll data shows the gap between Haley and Trump is closing fast.

Think of the fact that you might be making history in this moment, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations told Iowa voters in an event in Cedar Falls the weekend before the Iowa caucuses. And Im not talking about the history of a female president. Im talking about history saying we are going to finally right the ship in America. Were finally going to get it right.

While Haley has appeared to reject many of the tenets of modern feminism, including her strict anti-abortion stance, shes previously said she would approve a 6-week abortion ban if she were still governor of South Carolina.

Still, history tells us Haley is following in the footsteps of many influential Republican politicians who claimed the label of feminist and others who didnt, but believed in many modern feminist principles, like being pro-abortion.

Shes the first Indian-American woman to run for GOP nominee, but her campaign hasnt focused on engaging the Indian and South Asian community in America, which has disappointed some Indian-Americas, the Hindustan Times reported last week.

Haley has also faced questions about her Christian faith and her commitment to American values because of her status as an Indian-American, including Trumps attempts to cast doubt on her American citizenship ahead of the Iowa Caucus.

Following the ratification of the 19th amendment, women became interested in entering politics, especially since they now had the right to vote. The women who pushed into politics became some of the most influential female political figures of the 20th century, said Dr. Catherine E. Rymph, a professor of history at the University of Missouri.

A major way conservative feminism differs from mainstream feminism is the two groups stance on abortion rights.

The Republican Party platform states the unborn child has a fundamental right to life which cannot be infringed, and Republicans have made successful efforts to rollback access to abortion. The issue has been polarizing for voters, and even support for complete abortion bans has fallen slightly among GOP voters following the fall of Roe v. Wade, according to data from the Public Religion Research Institute. Still, 63% of Republicans said abortion should be illegal in all or most cases.

Abortion is a major issue for conservative feminists today, and has been a major sticking point for feminists across the political spectrum. Most feminists would consider a pro-abortion stance essential to being a feminist, as Victoria Browne wrote in a 2022 article for Radical Philosophy titled Anti-abortion feminism: How is this even a thing?

Voter data shows Republicans are losing ground among young women voters, which is why conservative feminism and the voting behaviors of conservative women are worth watching as the GOP race narrows to one man and one woman.

Here are three ways Haleys display of what it means to be an empowered Republican woman fit into the partys broader ideology:

Shes pro-life

Many modern-day conservative feminists are firm in their stance on abortion. While some consider anti-abortion and feminism to be incompatible, thats not been the case for this Republican-dominated movement. Anti-abortion feminism hit mainstream politics in 1973 with the creation of Feminists for Life, by Pat Goltz and Catherine Callahan.

Haley has presented a strong anti-abortion policy during her campaign. She said she would sign a 6-week abortion ban if she were president.

Being anti-abortion is an important stance for both Republicans and political conservatives, Rymph said. Its something Haley has embraced, which is something other womens groups like the nonprofit organization New Wave Feminists, an anti-abortion feminist group, have also embraced.

We need this kind of pro-life feminism today, because a feminism predicated on abortion rights excludes the nearly half of women who call themselves pro-life. This includes many poor and working class women who are actually less likely to get an abortion when faced with an unintended pregnancy and more likely to identify as pro-life than their college-educated peers, said Amber Lapp, a research fellow at the Institute for Family Studies, in an article for conservative publication American Compass.

New Wave Feminists was one of several groups that signed and submitted an amicus brief to the Supreme Court that claimed the judicially-created right of abortion disadvantages women.

While these seemingly opposing stances canand docoexist in the minds of conservative feminists, Browne cautioned against the anti-abortion is pro-woman stance often parroted by anti-abortion feminists.

As Amia Srinivasan has put it, right-wing anti-abortionism should be understood as essentially a symbolic form of politics because a real movement to abolish abortion would have to be premised upon a programme for serious structural change, including state-guaranteed parental leave, childcare provision and universal healthcare, as well as safe, free, accessible contraception and massive investment in sex education, Brown said in the Radical Philosophy article.

She supports anti-trans policy

The Republican Party has been very anti-trans. More than 300 anti-trans bills have already been filed this year. Nearly 600 anti-trans bills were filed in 2023, and 86 passed.

The bills filed in 2024 have been described as extreme by the New Republic.

In December 2023, she said the government should stay out of it when it came to healthcare bans for trans people. Haley has also supported policies that would ban trans girls from participating in girls high school sports.

We need to raise strong girls, because strong girls become strong women, and strong women become strong leaders, the former South Carolina governor said in a campaign event in Iowa. And none of that happens if you have biological boys playing in girls sports.

Anti-transgender legislation was featured on the mainstage of the 2023 Conservative Political Action Conference, where Project 2025 was presented. Project 2025, also known as Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise, is a legislative agenda that includes legislation that would ban trans participation in sports, the removal of any LGBTQ+ content from libraries and from the internet and a complete ban on pornography, Dame Magazine reported.

She insists she has a place in the Republican Party

Haley is one of a long line of Republican women who chose to stay in the party, and advocate for their place as leaders there, instead of organizing in woman-dominated spaces, Rymph explained. Her academic research examined how women entered politics following the ratification of the 19th Amendment, allowing white women to vote.

What I found, which seemed kind of ironic, was that the women who entered Republican Party politics, who dont stay in those women-only spaces, those women are the ones who became a voice for womens rights, and eventually feminism in the Republican party, Rymph said.

Haley is running on the Republican ticket, despite a large share of her supporters who say they would describe themselves as politically independent. Even in Iowa, where Trump took a strong victory, 34 percent of Haley supporters described their political ideology as independent, according to CNN entrance polls.

Many of Haleys supporters are people who feel like they may lose their party to Trumpism, Rymph said. They are people Rymph described as feeling like they no longer have a place in the Republican Party, which they were part of because of their belief in conservative principles.

These people dont support Trump because they dont believe that Trump is a conservative. These voters were Republicans because of the partys belief in conservatism, she said.

Haleys strong stance as a Republican who has a place in the party because of her conservative values mirrors the work of Republican feminists who came before her.

Women like Mary Louise Smith, the first female chair of the Republican National Committee, stood her ground as a Republican despite her disagreements with her male colleagues. Regan appointed her vice-chair of the United States Commission on Civil Rights in 1980, but did not re-appoint her in 1984.

Unlike Haley, Smith was pro-abortion and relegated as a defender of reproductive rights. She served on the board of directors for the Iowa chapter of Planned Parenthood from 1986-1992. When she died in 1997, she remained the only woman to have chaired the Republican National Committee, a post she held from 1974-1977.

She believed in the two party system and that the Republican Party was her party. Because she had decades of working in that party, thats the place where she believed she could be effective, and that if she left the party, she would just be another American voter. She wouldnt have the kind of influence that she had within the party, despite her policy differences, Rymph said.

What now?

The New Hampshire Republican Primary is Tuesday. This weeks Republican debate was canceled after Haley said she would not attend if Donald Trump did not show up.

Poll data from American Research Group shows Trump and Haley are tied at 40% in New Hampshire. DeSantis is expected to have about 6% of the vote.

On Sunday, DeSantis announced he was suspending his campaign and endorsed Trump. Now, the race is between Haley and Trump.

Does the party want to look forward and address issues that desperately need solving  decreasing the debt and deficits, making Social Security solvent, fixing a porous southern border? Those are the things Nikki Haley focuses on, South Carolina state Sen. Tom Davis told NBC News Sunday. Or does it want to be a party that looks backward and settles scores for perceived past grievances, one that seeks retribution? Those are the things Donald Trump emphasizes.










English News China's meteorological satellites contribute to global disaster prevention, mitigation

Alwihda Info | Par pd - 22 Janvier 2024



According to CMA statistics, over the past five years, more than 1,000 international users have been trained for better use of Fengyun meteorological satellite-based products. The CMA has provided support concerning application software for Fengyun satellites' remote sensing services and held video consultations on relevant services and products for over 20 countries and regions across the world more than 50 times.

By Li Hongmei, People's Daily China's Fengyun meteorological satellites, among the diverse man-made satellites orbiting the Earth, monitor meteorological conditions on the planet at all times, making important contributions to global disaster prevention and mitigation efforts, climate change response, as well as sustainable economic and social development.



Fengyun satellites are a series of remote-sensing meteorological satellites independently developed by China. Since the successful launch of the country's first meteorological satellite in 1988, Fengyun satellites today are widely applied in such fields as weather forecasting, climate prediction, natural disaster and environmental monitoring, and scientific research.



China has by far successfully sent 21 Fengyun meteorological satellites of two generations into space. Currently, nine of them are operating in orbits, providing data and products for 129 countries and regions around the world.



With multiple satellites in orbit conducting networked observations, Fengyun meteorological satellites are able to provide three-dimensional (3D), quantitative, global, all-day, all-weather, hyperspectral, and timely precision monitoring data.



The extraordinary capabilities of the Fengyun satellites enable precise monitoring of all types of weather and climate events. It has detected all typhoons, performed 3D "computed tomography (CT) scans" of rainstorms, accumulated the dataset of climate variables for El Nino, and carried out more tasks.



The satellites have provided remarkable service support for the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and become the backbone of the global Earth observation network.



In recent years, data obtained from the instruments on the Fengyun meteorological satellites have been playing an increasingly important role in data assimilation of the numerical weather prediction models of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), said Niels Bormann, a Principal Scientist in ECMWF Research Department.



Integration of satellite-based Earth observation data and ground-based observation data allows for better monitoring of meteorological disasters and their impacts on agriculture.



In the past few years, Fengyun meteorological satellites have been used to monitor extreme drought events in Central Asia, facilitate studies of drought mechanisms, climate change and its impacts, identify affected areas, and then help these areas reduce adverse impacts and enhance climate resilience, according to Sanjarbek Muratov, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) representative to Uzbekistan.



On November 13 last year, the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) launched the international version of FengYun Earth, a comprehensive application platform serving services by leveraging the Fengyun meteorological satellites and satellite remote sensing technology.



The international version of the platform, specially developed for international users, boasts outstanding capabilities. It can effectively obtain multi-source data such as meteorological satellite data and numerical weather prediction data, while identifying disastrous weather and extreme climate events with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.



It also provides users with more than 100 quantitative and multi-scale products in five categories for different business scenarios, covering cloud charts, key elements, disaster events, climate, and model verification. According to different countries and regions, it can be configured to focus on certain meteorological factors, observation areas, and time ranges, among other aspects, so as to meet users' personalized needs.



Shortly after its debut, the international version of FengYun Earth received an order - to provide support for the 17th Pacific Games hosted by the Solomon Islands.



At the invitation of the meteorological bureau of the Solomon Islands, the CMA sent experts to the Solomon Islands, while starting the fast-scan mode of the Fengyun-4B (FY-4B) satellite for meteorological observations centered on the Solomon Islands. Leveraging the platform, the CMA provided dozens of satellite products for the Solomon Islands, delivering strong support for the successful holding of the 17th Pacific Games.



In an effort to better serve international users, the CMA established an emergency support mechanism regarding disaster prevention and mitigation of Fengyun satellites in April 2018. A total of 34 countries had registered for the mechanism by 2023.



Since the beginning of 2023, Fengyun satellites have responded 28 times to global requests for emergency support services.



They have observed tropical cyclones Lola and Mocha, providing meteorological support to countries including the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Bangladesh. They have also helped monitor concentrated ignition points of devastating forest fires from the northern coast of Algeria to northwest Tunisia, offering important assistance for the fire prevention and control efforts of local authorities.



According to CMA statistics, over the past five years, more than 1,000 international users have been trained for better use of Fengyun meteorological satellite-based products. The CMA has provided support concerning application software for Fengyun satellites' remote sensing services and held video consultations on relevant services and products for over 20 countries and regions across the world more than 50 times.



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Numerous recent articles advis e investors which healthcare stocks to buy and which ones to avoid. Other economic reports confirm healthcare as one of the fastest growing segments for jobs in the economy. These writings fail to report that as stockholders profit and as more healthcare jobs are created, patients suffer and die due to the seesaw effect.

Stocks and Patients

A 2020 study compared ten-year (20072017) performance of top healthcare stocks to patients access to care. The time period extended from before the Affordable Care Act (ACA)  passed in 2010 and implemented in 2014  to after full implementation and thus included effects associated with the ACA on stocks and on patients.

Over the ten years, the seven largest healthcare stocks all increased in share price, with average gain of 307 percent (range: 157 to 635), while the Standard & Poors Index gained 80 percent. Over the same time period, the maximum average wait time to see a primary care physician increased from 99 days to 122 days.

As stockholders gained value, patients lost access to medical care. While this is a statistically significant (p<0.0001) temporal association, that does not prove cause and effect. One may infer causation based on how health insurance companies profit.

Health insurance prices are fixed according to contracts with health plans after negotiation with state governments. Since insurance companies can increase revenue only by signing up more people, their best way to increase profit is by reducing costs  i.e., spending (on patients). This is done by the three D strategy: delay, defer, deny authorization for care. Thus, the longer people wait for care, the longer insurers keep premium revenue, and profits rise.

The stock-to-care connection is an inverse relationship called the seesaw effect: as the number of insured individuals rises, care falls. When insurance companies insure more people, they deploy the three D approach, causing more people to wait longer and longer for care, delaying a proper diagnosis (viz., cancer). Medical ailments progress, and patients health worsens, ultimately leading to death by queue  patients who die waiting in line for care.

Simply put, as more Americans are insured, insurance profits rise, and patient care falls. Washington is the primary insurer of Americans  194 million  through Medicare, Medicaid, and Tricare.

Job growth and patient care

One of the triumphs attributed to the ACA by then-president Obama was job growth. According to Goldman Sachs, 500,000 jobs [were] added to health-care sector under ObamaCare. When the data are studied in detail, 47,000 were care providers, meaning that 453,000 (91 percent) were non-clinical jobs, people who did not provide patient care.

Mentally calculate the salaries for millions of bureaucrats, administrators, rule-writers, regulation compliers, compliance officers, overseers, mandate-enforcers. This is the cost of healthcare BARRCOME associated with regulations such as the ACA, which cost $1.76 trillion. In fact, to cover part of this BARRCOME cost, $716 billion was taken from the Medicare Trust, money intended to pay for hospital care for seniors. According to the Trustees, Medicare will be insolvent by 2028 and thus unable to provide this care.

The ACA was merely one more money sump that diverts healthcare spending away from paying for care. In 2023, the U.S. expended $4.5 trillion on its healthcare system, an amount greater than the entire GDP of Germany, the fourth largest economy on Earth. It is estimated that 31 percent to more than 50 percent of U.S. healthcare spending goes to BARRCOME. That translates to $2 trillions worth of patient care Washington denies its citizens while paying itself.

Job growth in healthcare demonstrates a variation of the seesaw effect: as federal BARRCOME goes up, patient care goes down, and Americans die.

Federal healthcare: A Potemkin village

Washingtons takeover (by regulation) of healthcare has produced a Potemkin village.

Grigori Potemkin was an 18th-century Russian statesman and one of Russian Empress Catherine the Greats many lovers. Under his leadership, in 1783, Russia took the fertile lands of Crimea away from the Ottoman Empire. He promised Catherine a huge bounty of food and a grateful populace. In 1787, Catherine demanded to see how well her people had done as a result of the war. Potemkin built a facade of a prosperous village and hired people to smile and bow down as Catherines entourage toured the village. While Catherines caravan made slow progress, Potemkins hirelings moved the fake village and happy actors to the next tour stop so Catherine (again) saw thriving Russians and thought the invasion had been a great success. In fact, it was a failure  no great agricultural wealth materialized, and Russians continued to starve.

Washington has produced a Potemkin village called Federal Healthcare. The uninsured rate is the facade of success. Each reduction of this number is heralded as a new triumph. Another false building front is added and propped up for viewing pleasure. Behind the facade, there is reality: Washington paying itself with healthcare dollars, and Americans with insurance die waiting in line for care.

Deane Waldman, M.D., MBA is professor emeritus of pediatrics, pathology, and decision science; former director of the Center for Healthcare Policy at Texas Public Policy Foundation; former director, New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange; and author of 12 books including the multi-award winning Curing the Cancer in U.S. Healthcare: StatesCare and Market-Based Medicine.

Image: Pkd2016 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
The Florida Office of Election Crimes and Security (OECS) was created by Governor Ron DeSantis to receive and investigate election-related complaints. In most cases, the Office subsequently refers the complaints to appropriate county or state law enforcement entities. A few days ago (January 15, 2024), the OECS issued its latest annual report.

Left-wing media will tell you that the agency did not find much fraud. Rather, it spent taxpayer funds to harass and confuse minority voters. But dont believe it: the findings in the report are serious and disturbing.

In addition to investigations of people who voted when they were not qualified to do so, the Office expanded its quest to third-party voter registration organizations (known as 3PVROs) and to other organizations that have circulated fraudulent petitions, which have plagued the state for years.

Third-party registration organizations

About 1,900 third-party registration organizations operate in the state of Florida. Those entities operate mostly on the left side of the fence, and often with shady and illegal workers. Here is an example from the OECS Report: a collection agent, who was working for the Florida Democrat party and Florida Rising Together, submitted 1,460 forms to a Florida election office in the three months between 1/8/22 and 4/7/22. An alert election supervisor suspected that the voter applications were fraudulent based on a comparison of voter information on the forms with that on file. The matter was referred to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and is under active investigation.

Another third-party registrant is Hard Knocks Strategies, LLC. OECS has levied multiple five-figure fines on Hard Knocks for wanton disregard of statutory obligations. In addition, several of its agents have been arrested for falsifying registration applications in Lee and Charlotte Counties. Yet the organization seems to thrive.

Recently, the State Attorneys Office found that Hard Knocks conducts no or limited background checks for agents who are asked to handle sensitive information  including names, birthdates, last four digits of Social Security numbers, and signature exemplars. One of the workers is a fifteen-time convicted felon who was temporarily out on bond related to two different charges. While out of jail, he issued numerous phony registrations.

Hard Knocks also tried to qualify over 2,900 voters by submitting registration forms after the statutory deadline. For this, it has paid nearly $50,000 in fines. Those fines would have been much higher were it not for statutory penalty caps in place at the time of the violations.

According to a LinkedIn account, Hard Knocks has over 3,000 employees. How does the organization pay for such a large payroll? Redbroward.com says that George Soros gave the left-wing registrant millions of dollars in recent years.

Here is how the Soros beneficiary describes itself:

Hard Knocks Strategies is the go-to integrated strategy firm in Florida for reaching, persuading and mobilizing communities of color. ... We are rooted in the communities we work with and are uniquely placed to identify, engage and motivate low-propensity voters.

I wonder what persuading and mobilizing entails, and how Hard Knocks manages to motivate low-propensity voters. Does it offer free raffle tickets, or coupons for free pizza? Just wondering.

But we should not pick on Hard Knocks. After all, it is just one of 1,900 similar organizations operating in Florida.

Fraudulent petitions related to constitutional initiatives

Like most states, amending the state constitution requires the circulation of petitions that must be signed by thousands of people within strict time frames. In recent months, Florida had about 18 constitutional initiatives, including the legalization of marijuana, the prohibition of abortion restrictions, clean water rights, and so-called voting rights (making it easier to vote and to cheat). Organizations on all sides of politics pay workers to round up the signatures necessary to get the initiative qualified. This is another area of potential abuse, according to Election Crimes Office:

During the last quarter of 2023, OECS and state election officials were inundated with an alarming amount of fraud related to constitutional initiative petitions. ... In the last quarter of 2023 alone, OECS (from a single petition initiative), received and reviewed credible criminal allegations involving at least 32 individual paid petition circulators collecting and submitting petitions on behalf of the initiative. The allegations spanned at least 35 Florida counties and included over 1,500 Florida voters as potential victims of fraud/identity theft. ... OECS believes this is the tip of the iceberg with respect to fraudulent activity taking place.

Keep in mind that most fraud is probably not even detected. And the fraud that is detected is not necessarily reported to the OECS. Some complaints are relayed directly to local law enforcement. Those complaints are not included in the agencys report.

It is evident that the Florida election cops have their hands full in this never-ending battle with election fraudsters. But what about the states that dont have dedicated election law enforcement? In those states, the complaints are mostly ignored by the career prosecutors who are located within deep-blue counties.

Governor Ron DeSantis has created a good model. Now it is up to leaders in the other states to use the Florida template to build their own election police forces. When they do, they may be shocked by what they find.

Joe Fried is an Ohio-based CPA who has performed and reviewed hundreds of certified financial audits. He is the author of Debunked? and a new book called How Elections Are Stolen. It outlines 23 problems that must be fixed before the 2024 elections. More information can be found at https://joefriedcpa.substack.com (Joes free Substack account).

Image: cagdesign via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
One Virginia household had much to be thankful for and celebrate this past holiday season. After 14 long months dealing with U.S. immigration authorities, the foreign-born spouse of a U.S. service member was approved for her green card and finally allowed legal entry into the U.S. to reunite with her husband, her case favorably adjudicated.

This instance of legal immigration stands in stark opposition to what the Biden administration is allowing to occur at our nations southern border. As many as 10 million people have been reported illegally entering the U.S. since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021, with nearly 1.6 million known gotaways and hundreds of thousands of inadmissible aliens now granted parole into the country every month. In fiscal 2023 alone, there were more than 3.2 million illegal border crossings nationwide, a total that approximates the annual number of U.S. births. December alone saw more than 300,000 migrant border encounters -- an average of 10,000 per day, the highest monthly total ever recorded. Most enter believing U.S. borders are open and remain with scant fear of deportation.

Were told that those entering illegally are vetted before being released into communities. But they are, in fact, released after minimal processing. This means taking photos and fingerprints, entering unverifiable names and birth dates, running this data through U.S. law enforcement and immigration databases, and creating an immigration file if none exists. It should further entail ensuring that each unknown migrant isnt a known terrorist, and doesn't have a criminal record, contagious disease, or prior immigration violation, but most often does not simply due to the sheer numbers overwhelming border authorities. For release into the country, all that many get is a token notice to appear at an immigration court hearing -- often years in the future -- to argue why they shouldnt be deported for being here illegally.

What then explains legal immigration being so bureaucratically stringent for a foreign national to enter the country? This is exceptionally true for a person -- with a sponsor no less -- applying legally with verifiable identity, documented medical records, certifiable education, provable means of support, and justifiable reason for entry.

No case underscores this legal-versus-illegal chasm like what happened to the service member and his foreign-born spouse at the end of his overseas tour.

Our family friends son enlisted and then assigned to Europe for a multi-year tour of duty. While stationed there he met and married a European woman in April of 2022. In early September 2022, with his tour of duty complete, he -- with his new wife -- were scheduled for transfer back stateside for a new assignment. He returned to the U.S. on schedule that September while his wife was denied entry and remained in Europe. Only in late November of 2023 was his spouse finally granted legal entry into the United States.

Over those 14 months, the spouse endured a thorough vetting process -- all completed outside the U.S. -- unlike any those entering illegally across the southern border undergo. The couple had to assemble documentation, pay fees, submit to a medical examination, and be interviewed at an overseas consulate.

The sponsor -- her husband -- had to be a U.S. citizen or green card holder (permanent resident); earn at least 100% of poverty guidelines for their household; accept financial responsibility for his spouse, and not have previously committed certain crimes.

The wife was required to prove her identity, nationality, and current U.S. immigration status (if any); and also not have previously committed certain crimes or immigration violations.

Together they had to demonstrate marriage authenticity; prove termination of previous marriages, and submit supporting documentation (including military service records).

Then came the wait for adjudication. When movement on her case came to an apparent standstill with nothing heard, the husbands family further sought assistance from a member of Congress and retained counsel at their expense to file legal action with the U.S. government with the intent to speed up and complete the process for the wifes immigration.

The toll on the newlyweds from their prolonged 14-month separation was understandably rough, but they are thankful knowing it could have been longer. One on-line guide to navigate the process states one can expect to wait 17 months, not including possible delays.

Instead of complying with legal immigration protocol, one wonders if the better solution to the couples dilemma would have been to fly her to Mexico, march to the southern border, and walk across along with the millions from around the globe entering the U.S nearly at will with little fear of deportation.

More seriously, despite disputable Biden administration officials assurances, it is clear our laws and processes for legal immigration do not concern this administration nor are enforced at our porous southern border. The frustrating irony is those who comply with the law, complete each step of the process, and then must wait for adjudication take a distant second place to those who willfully disregard our laws but enter our nation through that border.

Image: Grand Canyon National Park
President Yoon Suk Yeol has agreed to extend the work of a state reconciliation panel by a year to allow it to look into more cases of human rights abuses during and after Japan's 1910-45 occupation of the Korean Peninsula, the presidential office said Monday.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission, an independent state investigation panel, has been tasked with uncovering the truth behind the deaths of civilians and the unjust exercise of government authority during Japan's colonial rule, and before and after the 1950-53 Korean War.

Under a relevant law, the commission's three-year mandate is set to expire May 26.

"The president readily agreed to an extension," Hwang Sang-moo, senior presidential secretary for civil and social agenda, said during a press briefing.

Yoon was quoted as saying it was necessary to restore the honor of those who suffered unfairly and sacrificed themselves for the nation for the sake of establishing the state's legitimacy and building national unity toward the future.

Of the more than 21,000 cases filed, the commission has so far investigated about 53 percent of them but is expected to complete nearly all of them with the extension, according to a presidential official.

An extension can be finalized at a plenary meeting of the panel. (Yonhap)
During a grief counseling session for professional censors and propagandists, The Wall Street Journals editor-in-chief complained to the World Economic Forums aspiring tyrants: If you go back really not that long ago ... we owned the news. We were the gatekeepers, and we very much owned the facts, as well. If it was said in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, then that was a fact. To the great consternation of those who believe it is their noble prerogative to manipulate the public by controlling the narrative, ordinary people are now much more questioning about what is reported as truth. The publics rising discernment troubles the ruling class. Perhaps that is why government schools refrain from sharpening students critical thinking skills these days. Authoritarianism thrives amid hive-mind ignorance.

So sorry, Davos dictators, we commoners are rapidly waking up to the bitter reality that corporate news spin-doctors are just as culpable for todays civilizational chaos as the malicious central bank money-printers, out-of-control spy agencies, and multinational corporate behemoths that have long worked together to manipulate global events. We have opened our eyes and see you for the monsters that you really are.

Thats probably why two thirds of American elites (and surely an even larger share of their international comrades) believe that ordinary Americans enjoy too many individual freedoms (remember when Meghans future ex-husband Harry called the First Amendment, bonkers?). The publics awakening surely also explains why a string of international despots took to the dais in Davos to tell the World Economic Forums power-hungry master race that the greatest threat to its continued global control isfree speech. Forget WWIII, lethal pandemics, cyberattacks, a debt bomb that promises to crash the financial system, or even infrastructure-killing electromagnetic pulses from outer space. For the WEF-lords who rule and expect the planets powerless to obey, there is nothing more frightening than intellectual dissent and public debate.

Interestingly, that same survey documenting elites disdain for personal freedom (beyond the sustained privileges of their own clique, of course) also reveals that roughly two-thirds of non-elites believe that centralized government control has become a serious threat to human liberty. So, the feudal aristocracy insists that the peasants have too much freedom, while the peasants are already busy beating their plowshares into swords and their pruning hooks into spears. What could possibly go wrong?

For a long time, it has been obvious that the critical conflict for humanitys future will be fought not between mere nation states but rather between human beings who desire freedom and international institutions that seek totalitarian control. When Klaus Schwab argues that democratic elections will soon be replaced with artificial intelligence, prudent defenders of freedom prepare. When WEF members are so desperate to advance climate change communism that they demand fishing and farming be treated as serious crimes equal to genocide, rational people know that a new era of tyranny is here.

In the United States, where freedom is a cherished battle cry for warriors willing to sacrifice their lives for Americas founding principles, the signs of something nefarious and contrary to those principles have grown more visible. The imposing Pentagon Complex, a standing army on American soil, and a defense budget that dwarfs the rest of the worlds have all loomed in the shadow of a U.S. Constitution providing for a limited and self-balancing civilian-led government.

The formation of the FBI, CIA, and NSA (and dozens of other agencies, organizations, outside contractors, and invisible sub-groups whose expertise includes spying on American citizens) created out of whole cloth an entirely new branch of government free from legislative accountability, judicial constraint, or public scrutiny. The Federal Reserve  a private bank handed the awesome power to print and lend dollars  has transformed Americans common currency into a depreciating instrument for manipulating and monitoring private transactions and transferring middle class savings into the accounts of the globes wealthiest. The Department of Justice (in name only) protects the permanent Deep States friends while targeting its enemies (which is why Jeffrey Epsteins child-sex-seeking clients remain as free as the Antifa domestic terrorists who burn down small businesses and attack civilians, while Mary McCord and other Obama-Biden bureaucratic mercenaries persecute conservatives, imprison J6 political hostages, and torment President Trump). While both federal law and huge majorities of American citizens have demanded for decades that authorities put an end to mass illegal immigration, those same authorities conspire with corporations and upper class elites dependent on cheap labor to ignore the law and facilitate the worst kinds of border-related evil  organized crime, transnational terrorism, narcotics-related mass murder, and sex slave trafficking. And while all of these threats to Americans natural liberties and constitutional rights have metastasized like a virulent cancer eating away at society, politicians have exacerbated Americans pain and suffering by entering into free trade deals that have enriched international conglomerates and investment houses while destroying Americas once enviable industrial and manufacturing self-sufficiency and impoverishing the countrys middle class. Any honest observer taking a hard look at this long train of abuses against the American people would have no trouble concluding that a confrontation is quickly coming to a head.

Puppet President Biden (whose irritability, erratic behavior, and inability to form complete sentences continue to suggest that he suffers from some form of debilitating dementia that makes him unfit for office) recently threatened American gun owners yet again by stressing that their AR-15s are no match for the militarys F-16 fighter aircraft. Putting aside the U.S. presidents oath-betraying hostility toward the Second Amendment and his psychotic zeal to use military force against the American people, his argument that civilian gun ownership is insufficient to thwart government tyranny puts a rather damning hole in his simultaneous proclamations that unarmed J6 protesters at the Capitol were part of an insurrection that almost overthrew the U.S. government. How could mostly peaceful patriots without weapons pose such a threat to a government so certain of its military dominance that it routinely mocks civilian self-defense? The answer is simple: the J6 protests were no insurrection, but the ruling class is desperate to disarm Americans before the Second Amendments bulwark against tyranny provides a teachable moment for those unschooled in basic civics.

When hes not attempting to deprive Americans of their right to self-defense, Bidens Bill-of-Rights-allergic regime remains committed to diminishing Americans First and Fourth Amendment rights, too. The FBI and DOJ unconstitutionally target Americans for their political beliefs, conduct warrantless searches of their communications and financial transactions, and throw them on domestic enemy lists for being patriotic, supporting MAGA policies, voting for Trump, or merely reading a Christian Bible. The federal government has even redirected funds meant to fight terrorism toward a propaganda effort for targeting President Trump and his voters. Having created a secret Internet surveillance court with Eric Holder as a member and having created multiple iterations of a domestic censorship board for controlling what Americans can say and hear, Biden and his WEF-allegiant gangsters are the Nazis that they nonsensically accuse Bill of Rights supporters of being.

Question: Faced with rising public backlash in the United States and throughout the West, is it not in the ruling classs best interests to temper its obsession with forcibly constructing a new world order in the same old, destructive molds of Hitler, Lenin, and Mao? We may never know for sure because the World Economic Forums collection of Marie Antoinettes seem committed to silencing their opponents while mandating their latest version of technocratic tyranny. What we do know for sure  because history is violently clear  is that a great many tyrants rise to power only to later lose their heads.

Image: Klaus Schwab. Credit: World Economic Forum via Flickr, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
United Airlines became the subject of derision and mockery recently as a viral video emerged of Uniteds CEO Scott Kirby proclaiming his companys potentially disastrous and deadly mission to have half of their future hires be women or people of color as part of its corporate quest for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), an ideological cancer that has been eating away at Americas academic, economic, and societal strength for years.

The reasons for the acute public outrage arent mysterious. Millions of Americans fly commercially, and the idea of plummeting 30,000 feet over several minutes in anticipation of you and your familys death is a frightening enough prospect for most people that the very idea of prioritizing race or gender in selecting pilots and mechanics seems nothing short of insane.

And in the past weeks, weve learned that the door plug of an Alaska Airlines fuselage blew off of the aircraft at 16,000 feet, depressurizing the cabin and creating a scenario so harrowing and nightmarish that one passenger felt compelled to send a presumedly final text: Mom our plane depressed. Were in masks. I love you.

The Boeing 737 Max was the plane involved, which some may remember was grounded after two deadly crashes overseas in 2018 and 2019, which claimed 346 lives in total and were both deemed the result of faulty equipment on the airplane.

As many Americans are only now discovering as a sidenote to other outrageous DEI news, such as the FAA being decidedly hellbent on taking DEI to its most ludicrous extent by actively recruiting people who suffer from severe intellectual abilities, Boeing has also long been suicidally devoted to woke DEI initiatives. They now claim, for example, that they want their employees to look like America, but are looking to have 92.5% of interview slates be diverse, i.e., non-white males. This, of course, means that they are quite illegally prioritizing non-white male applicants for employment, and I am very much looking forward to the forthcoming lawsuits on these grounds. (See: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.)

Also involved was the manufacturer of the malfunctioning door plug, Spirit Aerosystems, which is so devoted to woke DEI policies that it even created a cringy marketing video of its all-girl crew of employees sashaying to Shania Twains Man! I Feel Like a Woman.

But all of these things that we know to fear about what DEI has wrought in aviation pales in comparison to what we should fear about what we dont know. Or rather, what we havent been told.

You likely didnt hear about it at the time, just over one year before the Alaska Airlines nightmare, a United flight from Maui to San Francisco began climbing, reached 2,200 feet, then rapidly plunged more than 1,400 feet at a rate of 8,600 feet per minute, before the craft was miraculously righted just a few seconds before impacting the Pacific Ocean.

The problem, were told, is that the pilots werent in sync. The captain called for the flaps to be reduced to five degrees, but the first officer thought he heard the captain say fifteen degrees, rather than five degrees.

Personally, Im embarrassed at how many times I had to read that explanation before realizing that its an obvious lie. The words five and fifteen sound absolutely nothing alike when spoken. Yet its being reported, over and over, that the first officer heard the captain say fifteen, when he actually requested the flaps to be set at five degrees.

Why would they lie to us about this? Since were not being told who the first officer was, what can we surmise based upon the evidence that we have?

Well, perhaps we should consult Uniteds DEI hiring policies. What, exactly, are the qualifications needed to become a pilot with United these days?

The first time I can recall United being mocked for its outrageous corporate mission to arbitrarily declare that 50 percent of the pilots trained in the next decade would be women or people of color was in April of 2021. An announcement on Twitter (now X) suggested that the cockpits are just too often occupied by white men, and thats a problem because it doesnt reflect the racial and gender composition of society at large.

If your goal is to fly for United, but you dont have any flight experience, this is the place to start, says the United Aviate Academy, which promises to churn out diversity-hire pilots at breakneck speed in the coming years. And its true that you dont need flight experience to pursue a career as a United pilot -- the basic requirements for application are 18 years of life on planet Earth, status as a citizen or permanent resident, and a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

That may not seem like much knowledge or experience, but at least its clear and objective. The selection process after this point, however, becomes necessarily murky, given that United has to game the system in order to reach the outcome that has been pre-ordained by the corporate DEI mission.

For example, there will be assessments, United says, to find out candidates thinking style or how they prefer to work. United assures you that they do not share specific information about the assessments it uses to make its selections, so once you pass (wink-wink) these assessments and a virtual behavioral interview that is also objectively immeasurable, youre conditionally accepted to start your path to a career as a United pilot.

Now, if youve ever known a pilot who isnt a diversity hire, you likely know that they tend to be passionate about their trade. Such pilots certainly didnt stumble onto the career path by seeing a classified ad suggesting that his skin color could make him an excellent candidate to fly planes for the worlds largest airline.

My father, for example, served in Vietnam as an attack helicopter pilot. In the early 1970s, he, my mother, and my elder siblings moved to Malaysia for several years, and then to Iran, in order for my father to fly overseas and earn the money and experience needed to obtain his commercial pilot license. When the anti-American furor that took hold during the Islamic Revolution forced my family back to America, he found work at small airlines before finally landing a role as a pilot with a large commercial airline in the mid-1980s.

He was able to happily retire from that airline after a long career of dedicated service to his company and customers, but the point is that by the time he was hired by one of the largest airlines in the world and began flying its aircraft that carried hundreds of passengers, he had nearly two decades of experience flying various aircraft. With such pilots in the cockpit, the chances of the user error that nearly caused that Boeing 777 to plunge into the Pacific Ocean off Maui would be substantially lower than it was with well, whoever the first officer is that United refuses to name.

But we can be certain that this first officer wasnt vetted in such a way, given what we know about how theyve been vetting their candidates, and further evidenced by the fact that United seems to be doing everything possible to cover up the details of this near-tragedy.

United has a recent history of secrecy around these incidents. As Ashley St. Clair asks United on X:

On July 29 [2023], a United plane was nearly totaled after a hard landing. Who was flying this aircraft? Was the co-pilot a former flight attendant who was FIRED and then rehired through Uniteds DEI program despite being on a list to not return to United? Am I correct that this individual failed multiple trainings including simulator training? Am I also correct that United has covered up this DEI disaster and many others?

Well likely never know the specific identity of that co-pilot, just as well likely never know the identity of the first officer who misheard fifteen degrees instead of the captains order of reducing by five degrees, either.

Well also never know which Boeing technician gave the go-ahead for use of the door plug which failed on that Alaska Airlines flight, and well also never know which sassy gal turning wrenches and minding the welding torches at Spirit Aerosystems might be responsible for the faulty door plug.

The only thing of which we can be absolutely certain when it comes to the deadly risks that DEI crusaders have introduced to the airline industry is that the truth is undoubtedly much worse than we have been allowed to know, and, given the extent to which the evidence is being covered up by very powerful people and institutions, its likely far worse than we can even imagine.

Image: Pexels // Pexels License
A few hours back, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his presidential campaign. DeSantis chose Twitter to make the announcement, the very social media platform where he launched his campaign last May.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm

DeSantis endorsed President Trump, calling him "superior to the incumbent, Joe Biden."

It is interesting to note that in his final address as a presidential candidate, DeSantis looked relaxed, natural, and happy, unlike he ever did during his campaign. It was like an enormous weight was lifted off his shoulders, and now he could return to being himself.

The question remains why did DeSantis even contemplate running when it was obvious to even people sitting far away in India that this was not his turn?

It's quite likely that the idea was suggested to him after the GOP's underwhelming performance during the 2022 midterms. Back then, most of the mainstream media blamed President Trump for the failures, even though most of his endorsements secured victories for candidates.

What was surprising was that even sections of conservative media echoed that sentiment while alluding that Trump's downfall was a sign that DeSantis was on the ascendance.

Perhaps DeSantis's people convinced him that this was truly his time and he was Trump without the "baggage." Perhaps the Murdochs told him their media would support him; it has to be remembered that the New York Post put him on the cover with the headline: "DeFUTURE." Readers noticed that the paper suddenly became viciously anti-Trump.

It is interesting to note that Trump nicknamed him Ron DeSantimonious a little before the 2022 midterm elections. This had caused outrage among some Republicans who simply couldn't fathom the reason behind Trump's actions. It now appears that he had learned of DeSantis's intentions to challenge him and engaged in a pre-emptive strike.

Success in politics is not just about running an effective campaign or governing ably, it is about understanding when it's the right time to launch.

So, let's look at the circumstances when DeSantis launched his campaign.

Trump's supporters remember how the D.C. establishment concocted scandal after scandal during his first term to unseat him and block or impede the MAGA agenda.

Trump's supporters also know the 2020 elections were unfair. They remember the coordinated suppression of the Hunter Biden scandal. They recall how COVID-19 was used as an excuse to allow tamper-prone mail-in voting. They know how Zuckerbucks enabled sacrosanct election infrastructure by pro-Democrat activists.

Trump was most effective during his tenure as president, despite the numerous impediments placed before him by the establishment. Trump supporters remember the widespread prosperity in the U.S. and peace across the world during his tenure and how all of it has been undone by Joe Biden.

Hence, Trump supporters rightly feel their man deserves another chance to become president.

If DeSantis had the right political instincts and understood the MAGA movement, he would have comprehended this.

Irrespective of what he felt, he should have pledged much before the midterms that he didn't plan to run. He should have built stronger ties with President Trump. DeSantis should have appeared at rallies alongside Trump.

DeSantis should never have uttered a single syllable about his presidential ambitions where there were ears.

By doing so, he would have retained the goodwill of Trump supporters. They probably would have seen him as the only viable alternative to Trump if Trump were prevented from running.

This would have also created a mystery around him and allowed pundits and voters to build "what-if" scenarios of how well DeSantis would have done had he run.

DeSantis could have responded like the aspiring Prime Ministerial candidate on House of Cards.
A key characteristic of stupidity is that actions hurt oneself and others. No one benefits. That is exactly what U.S. District Judge William Young in Boston accomplished in blocking the buyout of Spirit Airlines by JetBlue on antitrust grounds. The DoJ maintained that the deal between the airlines was anticompetitive and anti-consumer. However, the judges decision may ultimately undermine the DoJs explicit purpose by weakening competition. It may remove travel options for consumers; it may seal the fate of a no-frills airline business model.

Despite his acknowledgement that the JetBlue-Spirit combination would likely place "stronger competitive pressure" on larger carriers that dominate the domestic airline market, Judge Young emphasized that, the consumers that rely on Spirit's unique, low-price model would likely be harmed."

So whats the problem with Youngs judgment?

First, there is already excess industry capacity in the markets that low-cost provider Spirt Airlines serves. Indeed, Spirit is struggling to eke out small losses, let alone a profit, from its no-frills flights. Even a cocooned judge, determined to concoct his own relevant markets and routes, should be able to see the relationship between excess capacity and pricing fundamentals.

Second, is the judges ignorance concerning Spirits standalone ability to service the cost-conscious consumers he so values. Absent the acquisition by JetBlue, Spirit Airlines may very well experience a hard landing. How is that going to increase competition and help consumers?

Thats not spurious speculation, or the expostulation of someone whod rather that government pinheads not enforce industrial policy in a free market. Indeed, credit rating agency Fitch discussed Spirits significant refinancing risk for its debt due in 2025. The company is already exploring restructuring options following the blocked merger. Even after the stocks price plunged over 60%, analysts at Citi downgraded it to sell.

If JetBlues acquisition of Spirit imposes stronger competitive pressure on larger carriers, then how dare some overzealous bureaucrat question their business plan? Within reasonable business regulations, and strict safety ones, it should be up to airline executives on how to run their business, including upgrading the flawed Spirt Airlines business model as markets dictate.

Apparently, presumptuous DoJ lawyers argued that Spirit Airlines will be able to conduct business profitably as a standalone company. Do they know more than the companys CFO, who was forthright about their debt obligations?

Do they know more than industry analysts, including those from J.P. Morgan, T.D. Cowen, Melius Research, and others? They all question Spirit Airlines ongoing ability to operate as a going concern. The stocks price has plunged since Judge Youngs ill-advised ruling, further diminishing their leverage to conduct favorable financial transactions.

That ought to make Bidens antitrust regulators happy. Indeed, the DoJ is celebrating a win. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland seemed downright giddy, describing the ruling as, "a victory for tens of millions of travelers who would have faced higher fares and fewer choices had the proposed merger between JetBlue and Spirit been allowed to move forward."

Biden is always giddy, as his administration recklessly pursues antitrust enforcement. It should be no shock, then, that in response to the judges ruling Biden said it is a victory for consumers everywhere who want lower prices and more choices. Thats curious, Spirit Airlines specializes in fee-based services, such as charges for luggage, drinks, reserved seats, and probably condiments. I thought Biden was opposed to the types of so-called junk fees that Spirt levies on frugal customers.

In his ruling, Judge Young exhorted that, "The removal of Spirit as an option for consumers, therefore, would constitute a cognizable harm." Following his injudicious judgement, Spirit Airlines stock is languishing near all-time lows, and some (perhaps many) of its workers may eventually become unemployed as bankruptcy may loom. Thats a lot of cognizable harm, especially to consumers.

It is a pyrrhic victory. If the regulatory harassers have their way, Spirits unique, low-price model may become extinct. With no white knight to reinvigorate their operations, the consumers whom the judge was trying to protect may have to hop on a Greyhound instead.

Image: Spirit Airlines
A few days ago, Jorge Ramos of Univision interviewed former Mexican ambassador to the United States Arturo Sarukhan. His analysis of how President Andres Lopez-Obrador greeted the Biden delegation is sound:

AMBASSADOR ARTURO SARUKHAN: President Biden fundamentally needs Mexican support and Lopez Obrador knows it and on the one hand he is taking advantage of it to carry out what I would call diplomatic blackmail... RAMOS: Why what SARUKHAN: by asking President Biden to RAMOS: What do you mean by blackmail? SARUKHAN: Yes. To suspend, as Lopez Obrador says, the United States' "blockade" of Cuba, forgetting that this is not an (American) executive power, but a Congressional power. Second, calling for sanctions on Venezuela to be removed, asking for billions of dollars in support for Central America. And deep down it is also a kind of blackmail, because I believe that what we are seeing, Jorge, what we have seen in recent months is the Mexican government opening and closing the valve of migratory flows to the border. That is, they close, open, close and open to create pressure on the Biden administration and thereby do a very important thing: obtain diplomatic capital so that when the Mexican presidential campaign begins to take shape, as it begins to gain speed, Lopez Obrador can use that capital of I am helping you in order to prevent the United States from raising its voice and saying, whats going on with the election in Mexico?

The former ambassador may be right. However, I don't think that Lopez-Obrador is trying to help his party's candidate. I think that this is all about a post presidency Lopez-Obrador. In other words, AMLO knows that there are no votes in the U.S. Congress to legalize millions of migrants. It would be stupid for Biden to cancel the Cuban embargo and lose Florida for sure.

So this is about AMLO positioning himself as the "el presidente" of the migrants. He wants to use whatever forum he has to became a voice for the Third World and migrant issues are huge in that corner.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos.

Image: U.S. Department of the Interior
A major unreported story -- and I know nothing except that they aren't saying much -- is on the fate of two missing Navy SEALs, who were declared dead by CENTCOM following a 10-day search at sea.

Theres been a near media blackout of this disaster.



The legacy media in the U.S. is unable to criticize Joe Bidens entire Administration.



Pathetic. And sad. https://t.co/nhPn7qIpqJ  Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) January 22, 2024

It's serious stuff and raises many questions among the military-minded on Twitter as to what kind of incompetence was going on that they could not trace the two men, and perhaps even more disturbing, whether Iran knows where they are.

While the focus rightfully goes to that kind of potential incompetence, and that story will probably rise in the news as the U.S. gets more involved in action against the Houthi terrorists attacking commercial ships and interfering with sea passage from Yemen, it appears that even the press office isn't very good at its job.

What's wrong with this list of people they thanked for their help? I highlighted the line in yellow.

That's weird stuff because there is no University of San Diego - Scripts Institute of Oceanography that I could find on Google. There's a University of California, San Diego department known as the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, which specializes in cutting-edge oceanic research, and while the Catholic University of San Diego several miles away does produce top-notch engineers with oceanic specialties, the famous place is Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UCSD, which is so famous it holds booked-solid tours. Every school kid in San Diego knows about it.

Yes, it's a tweet, but it's also an official communication from the powerful CENTCOM military command -- with three errors in that communication: Scripps, not Scripts, Institution, not Institute, and University of California, San Diego, not University of San Diego.

Wow. They couldn't be bothered to get the name right of a group that helped them try to locate Navy SEALs missing at sea?

I wonder what Scripps thinks.

As for the rest of us, we wonder how much DEI is going on in that office that they can't even get people to write official communications without a slew of errors. Besides the errors on the name, the web link to CENTCOM is insecure with an http:// rather than an https:// link and on my computer I couldn't get either to work.

This is such basic stuff and yet they are falling down on that front, too.

A Navy that can't communicate properly probably has trouble doing a lot of things right.

Image: Twitter screen shot
A recent exchange on an English street serves as a great reminder that under communism, or more aptly, communist theocracy, there is no freedomno freedom of expression, no freedom of speech, and most obviously, no freedom of thoughteven in places where government is god isnt the official political structure.

On January 19th, famed British pianist Brendan Kavanagh had a little run-in with some Chinese communists, and caught it all on camera. Kavanagh, also known as Dr. K, runs a popular YouTube channel which boasts around 2.1 million subscribers, and in the middle of streaming a performance outside a row of shops on a crowded London thoroughfare, in a public venue, a group of Chinese civilians confronted Kavanagh to demand that he stop filming because they were in his shot; see a video clip below:

Today in Britain the CCP demanded a piano player in a public place to stop filming because they were in the background  pic.twitter.com/2ZXbSfpWhI  non aesthetic things (@PicturesFoIder) January 21, 2024

Let me remind you, this is England, not China.

Now, any normal person on the street might just move, if they dont want to be included in a camera shot, but theres something a little off about these people, and apparently Im not the only one who thinks so. The clip above is just a fraction of the full exchange, which can be viewed here, and interestingly, a number of people in the comments who are claiming to be Taiwanese or from Hong Kong seem to believe that these Chinese are actually spies and saboteurs:

Image: Screenshot from YouTube video comment section

(Notice how that comment has 700 likes and zero to the contrary.)

So what do we know?

Well, according to the first woman who engages with Kavanagh, the group is filming something for some sort of Chinese TV program, so theyre not just ordinary citizens, but people working in communist media (regime propaganda); at one point, one of the men acknowledges they have an agreement with some unidentified entity that their faces not be shown online. Now, as Kavanagh points out, theyre waving the flag of the communist regime, and theyre all dressed rather patriotically with scarves in communist rednow maybe its just me, but I drew a connection between the fluttery red accessories and the 1950s Three Red Banners slogan. Lastly, we see that one of the men in the group is either certifiably insane, or extremely manipulative, and I suspect the latter. To anyone watching, Kavanagh is as calm as can be, with his hands in his pockets for almost the entire time, but when he gestures towards one of the small flags held by one of the women, the Chinese man shouts at Kavanagh, as though Kavanagh were actually physically assaulting the female; it also seems that this is the same man who accused Kavanagh of being racist for saying were in a free country mate, were not in communist China now, ya know? If you were to watch the whole recording, you see that eventually the police get called, and a female constable comes down on Kavanagh, telling him that he cant say things like that.

Freedom is the antithesis of communism: there is no freedom to exist without permission of the state, which is why Kavanaghs presence and individual actions in a public space were so offensive to the communists; there is no freedom of speech, which is why Kavanagh was told to stop filming, and reprimanded for saying what is completely and objectively true; and there is no freedom of thought, which is why these Chinese, thousands of miles outside the jurisdiction of the China, felt compelled to promote the ideology and methods of their government.

As someone in the YouTube video comments noted, freedom is precious and I wholeheartedly agree.

Image from X.
Narrowing the GOP field significantly, Florida's governor, Ron DeSantis, has called it quits just two days before the New Hampshire primary:

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who was hailed for much of last year as a rising Republican star, is ending his presidential campaign after he failed to overtake rival Donald Trump in polling or in the early vote of the 2024 race. DeSantis made his announcement in a four-and-a-half-minute video posted to X on Sunday with less than 48 hours until voting in New Hampshire's primary, the second state in the nominating race. "We don't have a clear path to victory," he said in the video, which he said was filmed in Florida.

He also did the adult thing and endorsed President Trump:

"It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance. ... While I've had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of [COVID-19 adviser] Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear," DeSantis said in his video. "I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge."

The exit clears the path to some extent for President Trump to take the nomination. That he's uniting around the winner is a good thing ... because recall how that dynamic made Javier Milei's victory possible in Argentina. When the right united, Milei won in landslide.

Nikki Haley remains in the race, and with no path forward for her, one could argue that she will not stay in the race much longer, either, though with a large war chest, anything is possible. DeSantis spent $200 million on trying to win Iowa for a second-place finish, and Haley campaigned 24/7 through the state for a third-place finish.

At least to DeSantis, though, the thought occurred to him: Why does he bother?

The polls show Trump firmly in the lead and the Iowa caucus did the same. It seems futile to keep fighting for it at this point, even as Trump faces various kangaroo trials. The trials themselves only make voters empathize with him more and drive his polling higher.

Which points to why voters think he's the best candidate for the job: There is unfinished business to be taken care of here -- rigged elections, political trials, administrative state abuses, and lawlessness everywhere. It doesn't get talked about much, either by pundits or polls but that's what voters are concerned about as they seek to make what was wrong in 2020 right, andd it pretty well amounts to, as Joe Biden says, democracy itself.

That doesn't mean DeSantis doesn't have a blazing bright future, however. As former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle once told me (as a member of the Investor's Business Daily editorial board) on politics -- "Sometimes it's not you, it's just not your year."

That DeSantis has pulled out early leaves him available for the vice presidential spot -- in a one-term presidency, meaning the White House may be nearer than he thinks. I hope that happens myself because I like both candidates. However, even if it's not that, he's certainly in good shape to run on his own in 2028 with no Trump baggage to encumber him. He's campaigned, he has practice now, and he's a good bet to be the favorite, just as Trump is the favorite now. He just need to keep focusing on being an impressive governor who solves problems found to be intractible elsewhere.

In any case, Ron DeSantis was a worthy opponent and ran a campaign he can learn from. He is to be congratulated for recognizing reality and moving out of the way of the rolling Trump train.

Image: Screen shot from Fox News video, via YouTube
Christian Nationalism has been given a bad rap by leftist intelligentsia and their media sycophants.

Leftists equate Americas nationalist proponents to the National Socialist movement of the Third Reich, and more particularly their race-cleansing efforts to establish an Aryan-only national identity. This propaganda initiative is two parts projection, and one part nonsense.

America is not a race; it is an idea based on a set of self-governing principles. America First nationalists want to secure our sovereignty and the principles established at our founding. We want our elected representatives to serve the interests of our people, not the elites in Brussels, Davos, or Rome. Our people, being Americans. Not white Americans, but Americans.

The Left is also trying to equate Christianity with the legalism more commonly associated with Islam. Christianity imposes no demands on your values or life choices. It does offer value precepts and invites its followers to adhere to said precepts as a basis for living a righteous life and for positively interacting with our fellow man. Our Founders, while crafting our Declaration and Constitution, well understood that those documents were only as good as the people who they were chartered to serve.

John Adams:

Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.

De Tocqueville;

I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers, and it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her fertile fields and boundless forests, and it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her rich mines and her vast world commerce, and it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her public school system and her institutions of learning, and it was not there. I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution, and it was not there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.

Leftist global elites have a utopia in mind if we only forfeit our values and relinquish our sovereignty to our one-world globalist masters. They are actively working to erode and eventually overthrow Americas founding principles and to have us bow down to the will of Klaus Schwab, Bill Gates, John Kerry, Christine Lagarde, and Jorge Bergoglio.

America is an exceptional nation, not one of many other great nations, as Barack Obama asserted when he said;

I believe in American exceptionalism, just as I suspect that the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the Greeks believe in Greek exceptionalism.

Americas exceptionalism is not because we are great, like other historically great nations, but because our country was founded on the principles of self-determination, where its citizens are protected by unalienable rights granted by God, and protected by our founding documents, the Declaration of Independence, and United States Constitution.

Image: CJF20
Data breaches are happening with alarming frequency lately, which means its increasingly likely your data is out in the wild somewhere. If theres one place that user data is likely to exist, its in a massive data breach pool that was recently discovered by CyberNews and SecurityDiscovery.com. This data pool looks to be a compilation of many major breaches and includes over 26 billion data breach records. That amounts to over 12TB of data, and it includes more than just passwords.

The exact nature of the records is unknown, but there are a few possibilities. The most likely records to be found in this data breach are usernames and passwords. However, its possible that other types of information, like credit card information or addresses are included as well. The good news is, the researchers do not suspect that new data is included in the pool. Rather, its a major sourcing of pre-existing data breaches. According to the researchers, this suggests that the owner has a vested interest in storing large amounts of data.

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Whats included in the data breachs 26 billion records

The research into this data breach was led by Bob Dyachenko, a cybersecurity expert and the owner of SecurityDiscovery.com. Although the team says that no new data leaks are known to be included, that doesnt mean end users shouldnt be concerned. The dataset is extremely dangerous as threat actors could leverage the aggregated data for a wide range of attacks, the researchers told CyberNews. Including identity theft, sophisticated phishing schemes, targeted cyberattacks, and unauthorized access to personal and sensitive accounts.

The data breachs 26 billion records also include information that users probably wont want getting out. The company or brand with the most leaked records in the data pool was Tencent, a Chinese tech giant, who had 1.5 billion records leaked. Tencent, among other things, operates the Tencent QQ messaging app. Other sites with millions of leaked records include LinkedIn, Deezer, Adobe, and Canva. Some adult sites were also included in the data pool such as 220 million records from AdultFriendFinder.

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Besides companies and brands, some data is also stolen from governments, such as the U.S., Brazil, Germany, Philippines, Turkey, and more. But the real concern is that malicious actors could use the stolen data for more widespread identity theft. For example, if you use the same password for LinkedIn as your banking app, you might be in trouble. A potentially-compromised social media site could spiral into a financial disaster quickly.

How to check if your data is in the breach

Theres no clear cut way to know if your data has been breached with absolute certainty. However, there are a few things you can do. Theres a search bar at the bottom of CyberNews article that lets you search through every site that was compromised. If you use a site that has been breached, you should change your password just to be safe. You can also visit haveibeenpwned.com and enter your email to see if it has appeared in a data breach. Otherwise, a good rule of thumb is to use strong passwords, different passwords, and change them if you think theyve been compromised.
Sufficient time left to discuss uniting, says Lee Nak-yon's new party

By Lee Hyo-jin

The idea of new political parties uniting under a "big tent" is widely under discussion, but the formation of such a coalition remains uncertain due to key differences in ideologies and interests among the breakaway factions.

In recent weeks, prominent figures who parted ways with the conservative ruling People Power Party (PPP) as well as the liberal main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) have been increasing their presence in the lead-up to the April 10 general elections.

Former PPP leader Lee Jun-seok, 38, officially launched his new party, called The Reformist Party, Saturday, a week after former DPK chief Lee Nak-yon, 72, held a launch ceremony for a steering committee for his own party provisionally named the New Future Party on Jan. 16. The steering committee will lay the groundwork for the formation of Lee's new team.

Keum Tae-seop, a former lawmaker, and Rep. Yang Hyang-ja have taken similar steps, naming their respective parties New Choice and Hope of Korea. Additionally, several other lawmakers from the liberal bloc who recently departed from the DPK, including Reps. Lee Won-wook, Cho Eung-cheon and Kim Jong-min, have formed a coalition called Principle and Common Sense.

The potential establishment of a big tent to encompass these factions would be a significant variable in the upcoming elections. Various surveys indicate that the support rates for the DPK and the PPP remain below 40 percent, with approximately 30 percent of voters expressing support for neither party.

Kim Chong-in, a seasoned politician and former interim leader of the PPP, anticipated that a big tent party gathering these factions could potentially secure 50 to 60 seats out of the total 300 available in the Assembly.

The new parties led by the two Lees, along with the coalition led by former DPK Rep. Cho, have announced on Monday that they will launch a consultative body to discuss areas of possible collaboration. The three sides plan to hold a public debate session later this week.

"We seek to engage in discussions that would show our commonalities and differences to the people, and foster a transparent communication platform with the public," Chun Ha-ram, a member of The Reformist Party, said during a press conference.

However, questions persist regarding their differing identities and political interests.

"For Keum, Yang and members of Principle and Common Sense, their primary focus for now is to recruit more incumbent lawmakers before engaging in discussions about a big tent. They will be reaching out to DPK or PPP lawmakers who are unlikely to secure party nominations, persuading them to join their new team," said political commentator Rhee Jong-hoon.

As for the former DPK leader Lee, his approach toward forming a unified party could widely differ from others, as his ultimate goal is to run in the presidential election, rather than gain a seat in the 22nd Assembly.

"Lee Nak-yon is still considering the extent of his role in the upcoming elections. If he decides to play a pivotal role and seeks to become the flag-bearer of the third-party faction, that would lower the likelihood of him joining forces with Lee Jun-seok, who also wants to take on the leadership role," Rhee said.

But time is running out. Less than 80 days are left until the elections, and the smaller parties have not yet presented a unified political vision that sets them apart from the two major parties.

"The sooner the better. It would be best if they reach an agreement on how to form the alliance ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays," Rhee said.

The New Future Party, led by the former DPK leader, said on Monday that "there is still sufficient time for integration," adding that "positive developments would occur if each party set aside their ambitions and worked toward unity."

"It will ultimately be up to the people to decide when the 'golden time' is (for merging)," said Shin Jung-hyun, one of the party's founding members.

On Saturday, former PPP leader Lee expressed that "the golden time has passed" for merging the parties, leading to speculation that the young politician has become less willing to join forces.
During the Galaxy S24 launch last week, Samsung teased its upcoming smart ring. Aptly called Galaxy Ring, it is a fitness and health tracker that you can wear on your finger. However, the company didnt reveal much about the products specs and features. It gave us a glimpse at the first-gen models design and confirmed that the ring is coming soon. We now have more details about the Galaxy Ring courtesy of a tech analyst.

Samsung is readying the Galaxy Ring in a lot of sizes

Tech analyst Avi Greengart, who has worked for Intel and JupiterResearch, claims to have recently gotten hands-on experience with Samsungs official prototypes of the Galaxy Ring. The company didnt allow them to take pictures, so the teaser at the Galaxy Unpacked remains the only visual of the product. However, the analyst has something else to share. They say the ring comes in a lot of sizes and is ridiculously lightweight.

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Greengart confirmed that the Galaxy Ring will come in three colors and will be available in sizes up to 13 (22.33mm diameter). The bigger unit could be a little heavier, but Samsung seems to have worked on making the ring comfortable to wear. TM Roh, the companys head of mobile experience, recently suggested that the ring will be a comprehensive fitness tracker for people who dont feel comfortable wearing smartwatches while sleeping.

Samsungs teaser hinted at the presence of a heart rate monitor on the inside of the Galaxy Ring. We also saw pogo pins for charging. The ring is expected to feature blood oxygen monitoring, sleep tracking, activity tracking, and more health features. However, it is unclear whether all sizes will offer the same set of features or if the smaller ones will miss out on a few. The bigger Galaxy Rings might have bigger batteries.

Samsung plans to launch the wearable later this year

As far as the launch date is concerned, all we know is that Samsung plans to bring the Galaxy Ring to the market later this year. Pricing details are still a mystery. Whether we will get an official announcement during the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 launch, only time will tell. The new foldables should arrive in late July or early August. We might hear more about the upcoming smart ring, the first product of its kind from Samsung, in the coming months as the company works on it behind the scenes.
Ministers should heed the wake-up calls of freak flooding and storms, and put aside the distraction of new oil and gas licences to tackle climate change, a leading environmental Tory voice has said.

Sir Alok Sharma, a Tory former cabinet minister, indicated that he would not support the Governments Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill as it was debated for the first time in the Commons.

The Cop26 president, who led Britains efforts to agree global climate action in 2021, warned the Bill would be perceived by other countries as the UK rowing back on its commitments.

The Bill is designed to maximise North Sea oil and gas production, and has already prompted Tory former minster Chris Skidmore to resign as MP for Kingswood over worries about its impact.

Sir Alok shared similar concerns in the Commons, telling MPs: Sadly what this Bill does do is reinforce the unfortunate perception about the UK rowing back from climate action  as indeed we saw last autumn with the chopping and changing of some policies  and it does make our international partners question the seriousness with which we take our international commitments.

For the reasons that Ive outlined, I will not vote for this Bill today, the MP for Reading West said.

Sir Alok added: We have seen the impacts of the changing climate around us daily, 2023 was the hottest year on record globally, in recent weeks many people have faced flooding again in our country including in my own constituency, we really shouldnt need anymore wake-up calls to put aside the distractions and act with the urgency the situation demands.

The Tory MP also cast doubt on suggestions that extra North Sea fuel production could help to lower consumer energy bills, telling MPs: I think its acknowledged that this Bill would not necessarily lower domestic energy bills in the UK, that price for oil and gas as a commodity is set internationally.

I think the best way to enhance are energy security and to ultimately bring down bills is for the Government to continue to deliver on its ambitious plans for expanding homegrown clean energy.

Labours shadow energy secretary Ed Miliband agreed with Sir Alok, telling MPs: All of this absolute codswallop about the idea that this (will) guarantee our energy security, that this is somehow going to guarantee these 200,000 jobs, its just risible nonsense.

Shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero Ed Miliband (Peter Byrne/PA)

He urged MPs to join Labour in halting the Bill on its journey to become law, describing it as one of the last desperate acts of a dying Government.

I urge the House to support our reasoned amendment and vote against their Bill tonight, he said.

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho had earlier told the Commons that the UKs future energy supply plans must be based on common sense, rather than ideology, as she claimed Mr Miliband was attempting to appease Just Stop Oil by opposing the Bill.

In a message to Labour MPs planning to vote down the Bill, she said: I suspect that there are many in the Labour Party who understand what turning off the taps would mean for British workers and they will vote against this Bill with a heavy heart.

The minister, who claimed 200,000 UK jobs are supported by the oil and gas sector, added: Isnt it right that the billions of pounds in tax that we raise from this sector stays here rather than being sent abroad?

And isnt it the position of an ideologue to say we will not support 200,000 British workers, but we are happy for those jobs to go to Russia or further abroad?
British Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch walks outside 10 Downing Street in London, Britain

By Alistair Smout

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain will retain thousands of European Union laws for at least the next two years, the government said on Thursday, setting out new targets for the heavily delayed process of removing EU law from the British statute book after Brexit.

Britain had originally aimed to remove all retained EU laws (REUL) by the end of 2023 - a flagship policy for hardline Brexiteers but one which sparked warnings from businesses about legal uncertainty and bureaucratic chaos.

Last May the government ditched that plan, instead proposing the revocation of only around 600 of the EU laws remaining since Britain by the end of 2023.

In an update on Monday, the government said it would "revoke or reform approximately 500 instruments" in 2024 and that it hoped to have reviewed or repealed over half of such laws by June 2026.

"The Government is on track to reform or revoke over half of the entire stock of REUL accrued in the more than 40 years that the UK was a member of the EU by June 2026," the business ministry said in a report.

A government tracker of remaining REUL shows that currently 33% of 6,757 retained laws have been amended, repealed or replaced.

Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said that the government was "reducing the number of new regulations and ensuring the wider regulatory landscape is effective and fit for purpose."

"While much has been achieved, there is still much to do," she said in the introduction of the report.

(Reporting by Alistair Smout; editing by William James)
British Jews are feeling conflicted and caught in the crossfire of public opinion ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day as the conflict in the Middle East rages on, a rabbi has said.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain described a really strange situation where Jews are normally seen as victims when the world marks the annual commemoration of the Holocaust which took place in the Second World War.

He said this year, with the Israel-Hamas war, parts of British society now see Jewish Israelis as perpetrators of violence.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain said this Holocaust Memorial Day will be the most agonising since it began (Luke Doyle/PA)

Rabbi Romain described what is happening in the Middle East as dire, and a very difficult situation morally, with a horrific death toll.

Israel launched an 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 four months on.

Nearly 25,000 Palestinians including thousands of children have been killed in Israels assault  one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history, according to health authorities in Hamas-controlled Gaza.

Rabbi Romain said the brutality of the Hamas attack had given a sense that the nightmare of the past was being re-lived.

A subsequent and very worrying rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in the UK in the period afterwards raised all sorts of fears among British Jews that had really gone since 1945, he added.

In an interview with the PA news agency, he said: There was a feeling that the nightmare scenario that we thought had been relegated to the past actually might re-occur in some possible way and that was very unsettling.

He added: On a totally separate level, Jews feel very conflicted at the moment because weve got this really strange situation where we think of Jews at Holocaust Memorial Day in the Second World War as victims, whereas now there are parts of British society which see Jewish Israelis as perpetrators of violence and so we feel a little bit caught in the crossfire of opinion.

He said this will be probably the most agonising Holocaust Memorial Day since it was first instituted.

Asked about the ongoing situation in Gaza, he said: We feel very conflicted because obviously the rising death toll is a great concern and nobody wants people to die whether theyre Israelis or Jews or Muslims or Palestinians and the death rate is horrific.

On calls for a ceasefire, he said: In theory a ceasefire sounds wonderful. In practice it doesnt solve the problem of Hamas, who want to re-enact October 7 again and again, by their own declarations.

He repeated a statement he made in the days after the October 7 attack that political tensions in the Middle East should not be imported to the UK.

We shouldnt let a political conflict be seen as a religious battle and theres no reason why British Jews and Muslims should not carry on the good relations that they had beforehand, he said.

Its obviously harder but its still possible. Im very adamant that, dreadful as whats going on over in Israel and Gaza is, normal relations should continue here. And even if we have to have difficult conversations, okay, but at least lets keep talking.

Olivia Marks-Woldman, chief executive of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, said: In the face of rising antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, it is crucial, now more than ever, that we unite to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.

She said the day, which takes place each year on January 27, brings people together and strengthens communities, reminding us all of the need to respect the humanity in others.

She added: This years theme, the Fragility of Freedom, provides an opportunity for collective reflection on the delicate nature of freedom. It also challenges us to safeguard our freedoms at every opportunity.

Aside from the UK national commemoration, there are thousands of local events taking place across the country: in schools, places of worship, museums and even prisons. The resilience shown by the survivors of the Holocaust, and those of more recent genocides, is not only courageous but deeply inspiring. We owe it to them to learn from the past for a better future.
By Shin Freedman

I often forget my passwords. Remembering long and complicated strings of characters is a problem for me. I have so many passwords for various applications, devices and operating systems. Not only the required complexity of password construction, but the increased number of passwords that I must keep track of in my daily digital world can be staggering. For security and privacy, I am struggling daily to regain some control over my passwords structures. Passwords have progressed from a security purpose to a security liability, at least for me.

To reset the passwords, the options can be daunting. I try to set my passwords using a certain system that I can readily remember. Even then, I forget the updated passwords when I have to add a special character because it was required. I wrote them in one special file then I forgot where I put it.

Changing passwords frequently is necessary to prevent cyberattacks, according to my husband. Frankly speaking, I do not like this requirement for changing passwords, so I keep reusing the same password. It does not work at all. I wonder whether we could function without passwords at all these days.

I read that ransomware has emerged as a significant cybersecurity threat, affecting individuals, businesses and even governments worldwide. One specific group that gained notoriety for ransomware is Rhysida. They use sophisticated malware that can have had a profound impact on the average person, causing financial losses, data breaches and disruptions to daily life.

Rhysida operates as a type of malicious software designed to encrypt a victim's files or systems, rendering them inaccessible. Perpetrators then demand a ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, in exchange for providing the decryption key. This form of cyber extortion has become increasingly prevalent due to its potential for high profits and the relative anonymity offered by cryptocurrencies.

Before my retirement, I relied on our universitys IT department for cybersecurity. Whenever I got an email warning from the IT office not to open any attachments due to the email compromise attacks, I complied without much thinking. They did a respectable job, and I never experienced any of my contacts directory being compromised.

Then it all changed early last August. A medical center where I was doing consulting work was hit by a ransomware attack on the day I arrived. The staff informed me that patients data was inaccessible, and all other operational office systems were affected and were inaccessible. The ransomware attacker demanded millions of dollars paid upfront in exchange for providing a decryption key to unlock the file systems. How insidious the impact of this ransomware attack was!

The media reported later that the attack was traced to members Rhysida, originating from Russia or other bad actor states. Government systems, education and the health care industry were all affected. The malware extracted patients personal data, images and health records, and threatened the target by saying that they would expose it all unless the payment was made. I cannot imagine the dilemma the administration and high-ranking officials must have faced with this threat.

I felt foolish in thinking that cyberattacks or email phishing scams would only happen to other people. Not me! Until you are directly affected by the malware! The disruption and its impact are real. What options are left for the victims? What could have been done to mitigate this unforeseen disaster? The impact of cyberattacks cannot be underestimated.

Meanwhile, I heard that the medical center eventually paid the ransom as demanded. I feel sorry for myself for not yet getting paid for the work I did for this medical center. I feel even greater sorrow for my employer for their misfortune. What lesson am I supposed to get from this experience? I need to remember, update and not forget my own passwords without any resistance in the coming year so that I can reduce the possibility of falling victim to a similar cyberattack. I hope you will too!

Shin Freedman (shinfreed@gmail.com) is an author, educator and writer.
Families of Israeli hostages say more needs to be done after meeting PM

Families of Israeli hostages say more needs to be done after meeting the Prime Minister in London.

The relatives of hostages being held in Gaza landed in the UK on Monday for a three-day visit to raise awareness and call on the Government to put pressure onto leading figures in Qatar  which has helped to mediate negotiations between Israel and Hamas  to do more.

They said Rishi Sunak told them he is going to do everything he can, as they called for UK leaders to put pressure on Qatar to pick a side.

Ziv Abud told the PA news agency how she had to hide under bodies after her nephew and his partner were killed and her boyfriend was kidnapped on October 7.

Ms Abud, 26, fled the Nova party in Reim with her family after the violence began, and they took shelter with 30 others in front of the Reim base.

Hamas gunmen arrived and threw grenades into the shelter. Ms Abuds partner, Eliya Cohen, 26, was shot in the leg.

Ms Abuds nephew and his partner were killed along with 18 others.

Ms Abud said: We were in the shelter for half an hour and after this we heard the shooting very, very close, five minutes after they were in our shelter.

They threw more than nine grenades to the shelter. After they threw the grenades, they start to take people from the shelter.

They took Eliya and three more people. They put them on a van then they came inside the shelter and start shooting everybody.

Liran Berman, the brother of twins Ziv and Gali Berman (Yui Mok/PA)

She added: I sat for six hours with their bodies, my nephews body in front of my eyes.

Two weeks later, they saw a video which showed Mr Cohen, and they said they could see he was injured, but nothing is now known about his condition or his whereabouts.

Ms Abud and her friend Michal Rahoom told the Prime Minister what had happened and said Mr Sunak told them he would do everything that he can to help  but called for more to be done.

Ms Rahoom said: Hes doing a lot, hes going to a lot of meetings. He also been in Israel a couple of days after everything happened.

So we really appreciate, but we need to do a lot more.

Ms Abud added that she believes if Qatar wanted, the hostages could be released tomorrow morning.

Ziv Abud (left), the girlfriend of 26-year-old Eliya Cohen (Yui Mok/PA)

Eli Albag, father of 18-year-old Liri Albag  who was kidnapped near the border, said it was very important for him to meet Mr Sunak and tell him his daughters story.

Ms Albag, who lives in Moshav Yarhiv in the centre of Israel and started her career training in the military, was kidnapped from her bed near the border with three other women.

He said some of the hostages who were released were with his daughter, and they described the conditions.

Mr Albag said: They say that they dont have food, they dont have water, they dont take a shower, theyre sleeping on the floor, very cold humidity, 40 metres under the ground.

And the most important issue, they are touching them.

There were some pictures taken of her 50 days ago, but no sightings or knowledge about her condition or whereabouts since.

Ziv Abud (right), the girlfriend of 26-year-old Eliya Cohen. (Yui Mok/PA)

Mr Albag has described his family as broken, adding: All our lives have collapsed.

Mr Albag, who showed the Prime Minster a photo of his daughter, said: He was very sensitive and inside his heart is like a very warm person. And for me, its made me feel more close and that he understands our situation very well.

Mr Albag said he was told by the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary David Cameron that they will speak to Qatar.

He said: They will have a meeting with them and they will talk to them and they know everything and David Cameron said that hes coming to Israel, he will go to Egypt and he will go to Qatar too.

Liran Berman, brother of 26-year-old twins Ziv and Gali  who were kidnapped from their house in Kfar Aza, showed Mr Sunak a picture of his little brothers and asked the Prime Minister to keep pushing on the release of the hostages.

Mr Berman, 36, said: We know that the Prime Minister is very supportive of the cause of the release of the hostages. He was one of the first prime ministers, officials, to come to Israel after October 7.

And I asked him to keep pushing on the release of the hostages, to not let it go. Half have been released, some have died, but there are a lot who are still being held captive. So we need his help.

Mr Berman was two hours away from his brothers and felt completely helpless on October 7.

Around 9.30am or 10am, we lost contact with my brothers, he added. We did contact them in the morning, they told us that they are in the safe room, later we found out that they were burning the rooms outside.

For 10 days we knew nothing about them, they were considered missing, and then 10 days later an official came to us and told us they had been kidnapped and were in Gaza.

Mr Berman said when hostages were released they told the family they had seen the twins, but they were not together and both had minor injuries.

He said his family are very tired but very focused and added that helping to release the hostages is the mission of their lives.
Fresh UK and US airstrikes on Houthi targets deal another blow to militants

The UK and the US have carried out a fresh set of joint airstrikes in Yemen, in the latest bid to stop Houthi attacks.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said the latest round of strikes were in self-defence and would deal another blow to the Iranian-backed militants.

It follows seven rounds of airstrikes on Houthi military sites by the US in recent days and comes after the UK took part in an initial joint strike operation earlier this month against the Houthis.

Since then, ships have continued to be targeted along the vital Red Sea and Gulf of Aden trade routes, with the US military confirming the latest strikes were against eight targets.

Mr Shapps said: Dangerous Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have continued to threaten the lives of sailors and disrupt shipping at an intolerable cost to the global economy. Along with our US partners, we have conducted a further round of strikes in self-defence.

Aimed at degrading Houthi capabilities, this action will deal another blow to their limited stockpiles and ability to threaten global trade. Alongside our ongoing diplomatic efforts, we will continue to support regional stability across the Middle East, working hand in hand with our like-minded partners.

The MoD said that four Royal Air Force Typhoons and a pair of Voyager tankers were involved in the latest military strike, which it said saw multiple targets hit at two military sites near the Sanaa airfield in Yemen.

The department said that a very rigorous analysis was carried out to avoid civilian casualties. According to US Central Command, targets missile systems and launchers, air defence systems, radars and deeply buried weapons storage facilities were among the targets.

A senior US military official told a press briefing initial assessments indicated missiles, unmanned aerial systems and weapons storage areas had been destroyed which had degraded their (Houthis) ability to conduct these maritime attacks.

The Houthis media office in an online statement said that several American and UK raids targeted Yemens capital, Sanaa.

The second operation between the UK and the US comes after a series of joint military strikes on January 11 which saw US and UK warships and jets hit more than 60 targets in 28 locations.

Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden had spoken earlier on Monday evening, with a Number 10 readout stating that the two leaders had agreed continue efforts alongside international partners to deter and disrupt attacks by the Houthis.

A joint statement issued by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the US described the strikes as proportionate and necessary.

The statement said that the mission targeted Houthi underground storage site as well as locations linked to the Houthis missile and air surveillance capabilities.

It continued: The Houthis now more than 30 attacks on international and commercial vessels since mid-November constitute an international challenge.

Recognising the broad consensus of the international community, we again acted as part of a coalition of like-minded countries committed to upholding the rules-based order, protecting freedom of navigation and international commerce, and holding the Houthis accountable for their illegal and unjustifiable attacks on mariners and commercial shipping.

The countries also warned: We will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the worlds most critical waterways in the face of continued threats.

(PA Graphics)

While the US, UK and other Western allies have insisted the strikes are not escalatory, it comes as tensions simmer in the Middle East as the Israeli bombardment of Gaza continues.

The Houthis, a Shia rebel group that has held Sanaa since 2014 and been at war with a Saudi-led coalition backing Yemens exiled government since 2015, have linked their attacks to the Israel-Hamas war.

However, the ships they have targeted increasingly have tenuous links to Israel  or none at all.

The latest operation could raise fresh questions about the need to consult Parliament over military action. It is understood that in contrast to the strikes on January 11, neither Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer nor Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle were briefed about the operation.

Mr Sunak, after the first joint mission, gave a statement to MPs at the earliest possible opportunity. It remains to be seen if or when he will come before the Commons after these latest strikes.
The regulator Ofcom could gain enforcement action over BBC News website articles it does not believe meet relevant broadcast standards in new government reforms aimed at improving impartiality at the corporation.

Currently, the communications regulator is only able to issue an opinion on the matter, but Government recommendations say Ofcom will be given increased oversight over the BBCs online public services, including its news site and YouTube channel.

The Government said its recommendations, which focus on increasing public confidence in the BBCs impartiality and complaints system, are expected to be implemented in a timely manner, following talks with the BBC and Ofcom.

The Government-approved regulator, which has authority over TV, radio and video-on-demand services through a broadcasting code, has also been given a new legally binding responsibility to review more of the BBCs complaints decisions.

The new reforms are outlined in the first Mid-Term Review, published by the Government on Monday, introduced by the 11-year BBC Royal Charter, which forms the constitutional basis of the corporation and makes clear its public purpose.

Alongside the Ofcom reforms is a legal responsibility for the BBC Board to actively oversee its own complaints process.

The review also recommends that the BBC considers how diversity and opinion could be better represented as the Government says some audience groups, including disabled viewers and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, feel underrepresented by the corporation.

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said the corporation needs to adapt to the reforms or risk losing the trust of the audience it relies on.

The BBCs complaints process, called BBC First, was introduced at the last Charter Review in 2017, and the Mid-Term Review has concluded that it does allow licence fee payers to hold the BBC directly accountable, but said impartiality continues to be an ongoing issue for audiences.

Under BBC First, audience complaints are normally addressed by the corporation before they can be escalated to Ofcom.

To improve the complaints process, the BBC Board, which previously had a responsibility to oversee only the establishment of a complaints handling process, will now oversee the process as a whole.

BBC Broadcasting house in central London (PA)

Non-executive board directors and external advisors on the BBCs Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee will also be given greater powers to scrutinise and challenge BBC senior managements complaint handling.

Furthermore, the job role which has responsibility for complaints handling will now report directly to the director-general rather than the director responsible for editorial policy, to separate pre-broadcast editorial policy and post-broadcast complaints resolution.

The review has also recommended the BBC develops a public strategy that outlines its intended partnerships with others and said the impact of commercial changes, including the introduction of a BBC Commercial Board in 2022, needs to be closely monitored.

Ms Frazer said: The Government wants to see a strong, independent BBC that can thrive in the years to come as a major contributor to the nations successful creative industries.

In a rapidly changing media landscape the BBC needs to adapt or risk losing the trust of the audiences it relies on.

Following constructive conservations with the BBC and Ofcom, we have recommended reforms that I believe will improve accountability while boosting public confidence in the BBCs ability to be impartial and respond to concerns raised by licence fee payers.

These changes will better set up the BBC to ask difficult questions of itself, and make sure Ofcom can continue to hold the broadcaster to account. We all rely on the BBC being the best it can be and this review will help ensure that is what the British public gets.

A BBC spokesperson said: The Mid-Term Review was designed to look at the BBCs governance and regulation. Were pleased the Governments findings reflect that overall these are working well.

With regard to the BBCs impartiality, no other organisation takes its commitment to impartiality more seriously. We have well-established and detailed plans to sustain and further improve standards. We know this matters to audiences and the BBC continues to be the number one source for trusted news, with the highest scores for impartiality and accuracy.

During discussions over the Mid-Term Review, we proposed and implemented a number of reforms, including strengthening our complaints procedures, which now form part of the conclusions. We are pleased the Government has fully taken our proposals onboard. We remain committed to continuous improvement to ensure we deliver for all licence fee payers.

The BBC is operationally and editorially independent and we will continue to engage constructively with Government, and our regulator Ofcom, over the second half of this Charter and as we look ahead to a new Charter in 2028.
Holocaust survivor Hannah Lewis says there are no winners in war

A Holocaust survivor who watched her mother being shot dead in front of her by the Nazis has warned there are no winners in war.

Hannah Lewis and her father Adam were the only members of her family to survive the genocide of the Second World War.

Now 86, Mrs Lewis has warned future generations to stay vigilant because human nature is the same.

Mrs Lewis, who grew up in Poland, was rounded up with her family and forcibly marched to a labour camp in 1943.

Towards the end of the war, her mother was lined up with other people and shot dead by German police.

Speaking at her home in north London ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on Saturday, she said humans have a self-destructive nature.

By the end of the war, only my father and I survived, everyone else had been murdered, she said.

Holocaust survivor Hannah Lewis at her home in north London, recalls how family members were killed in the Second World War (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Asked about the importance of remembering the Holocaust today, she told the PA news agency: Look whats happening in the world. We dont learn.

Climates may change, places may change, but human nature is the same.

Were sort of self-destructive almost.

Mrs Lewis was born in the small market town of Wlodawa, and was the only child of Adam and Haya.

She had a happy and uneventful childhood until war broke out and the Nazis occupied Poland.

In 1943, Mrs Lewis and her family were forcibly marched to a labour camp in a village called Adampol a few miles away.

She recalled: My father was very, very concerned, because my grandfather was quite fragile, and he heard that when there were these marches, if you stumbled, if you fell, they had absolutely no compunction taking out a revolver and shooting you.

He was determined that his father was going to be wherever we were safely.

He ran around like a lunatic, and all he could find was a wheelbarrow. He and his cousins and everybody took it in turns to wheel my grandfather.

Over time, most of her family disappeared. Her father and his cousin managed to escape to join partisans, leaving only Mrs Lewis and her mother in the camp.

Hannah Lewis and her family were living in Poland in 1943 (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

She worked at Adampol alongside her cousin Szlomo and her mother, who were given jobs at the home of a village elder who owned the camps land.

She recalled the tragic day Szlomo was taken away by the Germans.

She said: Szlomo was deaf and mute and I absolutely adored him. We did everything together as far as we could.

This particular time, I could hear them on horseback and I could hear the cars as well.

I got hold of his hand and squeezed it so he knew he had to follow me and we ran to the nearest barn.

I pulled his hand and started going into the hay, but he let go of my hand.

I couldnt call him because he couldnt hear, and the Germans were outside.

The door was flung open, they walked in, and they saw him there.

My last sight of my lovely cousin was him being held by the scruff of his neck, his feet kicking, and he couldnt even have the voice to scream.

I think thats when the war actually came to me.

During the last winter of the occupation, Mrs Lewis fell ill with suspected typhoid, and when her father came to warn them of planned German action the next day, her mother refused to leave knowing her daughter would not have survived the journey.

The next morning the German police arrived and her mother  with other people  was taken and lined up by the village well, where she was shot.

Mrs Lewis recalled: She didnt look at me at all, so I decided I would go and hold her hand, the way Ive done lots of times.

Before I could do it, someone yelled a command.

They started to shoot, and I saw her fall. I saw the blood on the snow, and thats when I grew up.

I knew why she wasnt looking at me, and I knew that I mustnt make a sound.

Mrs Lewis remained in the camp and survived as best she could until being liberated by a Soviet soldier who picked her out of a trench dirty and very hungry.

After the war, her father found her, and in 1949 she was brought to live with her great aunt and uncle in London while her father eventually left Poland to go to Israel.

Describing the moment she was reunited with her father, she said: Suddenly, out of nowhere, there was my father, skinny, slightly dirty, but my father, and when he saw me, he put me in his arms and he started to cry.

He couldnt believe that I was still alive.

Mrs Lewis now lives in London having married in 1961 and had four children and eight grandchildren.

She has been sharing her experiences in schools and universities through the Holocaust Educational Trusts Outreach Programme for several years so that young people can seek to understand the impact the Holocaust has had on the contemporary world.

Hannah Lewis speaking to the then-mayor of London Boris Johnson during a Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony at City Hall (Yui Mok/PA)

She continued: People say to me do you tell us this because you hate the Germans so much?

I say no, Im telling you this because I like you so much and I want you to be vigilant.

We shouldnt be horrible to each other. We shouldnt want to kill each other.

Theres plenty of room for everything and everybody.

I think understanding is very important. And I think we need to be kinder to each other.

There are no winners in war. Theres the damaged and the less damaged, but theres no winners.
Who are the Houthi rebels behind attacks on ships in Red Sea?

Tensions in the Middle East have risen after Iranian-backed Houthi rebels began striking at ships passing through the Red Sea.

On Monday evening, the UK and US struck multiple sites used by the rebel group for the second time this month.

The two allies have conducted co-ordinated retaliatory strikes on an array of the rebels missile-launching capabilities, several US officials said.

They used warship and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets to take out Houthi missile storage sites and launchers, according to the officials.

The Islamist group claims it began striking a narrow strip of sea between Yemen and east Africa, which is a key international trade route, in a bid to end Israels air and ground offensive against Hamas.

The Shia militant group is allied to Tehran, as are Hamas and Hezbollah, and seeks to reduce western influence in the Middle East.

HMS Diamond patrols in the Red Sea (LPhot Chris Sellars/MoD/PA)

Its slogan includes the words death to America, death to Israel and a curse upon the Jews.

The group emerged in the 1990s and its supporters mainly come from the ranks of Zaidi Shia Muslims and the Houthi tribe.

It claimed former president Ali Abudllah Saleh had grown too close to Saudi Arabia and Israel, and tensions between them grew for several years.

The death of the groups founder, Hussein al Houthi, at the hands of the Yemeni military led to the Houthi insurgency from 2004.

The group later participated in the 2011 Yemeni revolution.

The rebels rose to prominence after capturing Yemens capital Sanaa in 2014, sparking a civil war which is estimated to have killed almost 400,000 people.

They captured more territory after aligning with Mr Saleh in 2015 and now control much of western Yemen down to the Bab al Mandeb Strait, a 16-mile stretch of water which marks the entrance to the Red Sea.

The groups takeover of the capital prompted Saudi Arabia to intervene in a bid to restore the internationally recognised government, which has a Sunni majority.

A Saudi and UAE bombing campaign against Houthi targets was launched in 2015 and drew criticism over civilian deaths, leading to calls for the UK to cease arms exports to Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, Tehran has been accused of providing arms, training and financial support to the Houthis.

The war has been viewed as a proxy in a wider conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia as they both seek greater influence across the Middle East.

Tensions rose in 2017 after the group claimed responsibility for firing a missile at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, and they killed Mr Saleh later that year after he switched from supporting them to backing the Saudi-led coalition.

The rebels have attacked Saudi Arabia, the UAE and most recently Israel with missiles before the clashes in the Red Sea erupted.

The joint operation on Monday comes after US and UK warships and jets hit more than 60 targets in 28 locations on January 11.
John Travolta has spoken of his pride at hosting the Duke of Sussex at an aviation awards ceremony, almost 40 years after he danced with his mother at the White House.

Harry and the Grease star were pictured together at the Living Legends of Aviation ceremony in Los Angeles, hosted by the aviation ambassador and keen pilot, 69.

Harry was recognised for his work as a British Army veteran and pilot at the ceremony and in his speech he told Travolta it would be fitting for them to fly together after the actor famously spun Diana, Princess of Wales around the dancefloor.

He said: 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, made front pages around the world when she was photographed with Travolta on the dancefloor at a gala dinner at the White House in November 1985.

John Travolta dancing with Diana, Princess of Wales at a White House dinner in Washington (Ronald Reagan Library/AP/Alamy)

Saturday Night Fever actor Travolta shared a photo of himself and Harry at the event, alongside Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez.

Helicopter pilot Sanchez was also honoured at the ceremony on Friday, where she was presented with the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award.

Travolta captioned the picture: I was so proud to host Prince Harry, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez at Living Legends of Aviation awards event Friday night.

Congrats to both Prince Harry and Lauren on their awards!!

During his speech at the ceremony, Harry described flying as 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.

He added that flight training was one of lifes greatest lessons.

The awards ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, honoured those who make significant contributions to aviation and aerospace.

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, the 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.
A man in his 60s was killed in Northern Ireland in a crash involving two vans and a fallen tree at the height of Storm Isha.

The crash happened in Limavady, Co Londonderry on Sunday as high winds battered the island of Ireland.

The man who died was driving a van that hit the fallen tree and another van on the Broad Road at around 9.45pm. The male driver of the second vehicle was taken to hospital for treatment.

South of the border two people died in road crashes when weather warnings were in place, but gardai have not said whether the storm conditions were the main contributory factor in those crashes.

A man in his 40s died in a single-vehicle crash in Claremorris, Co Mayo at about 6.15pm on Sunday when a status red alert was in place, and while a woman in her 20s, who was a passenger in a van, died after it hit a tree in Carnalogue, Co Louth at 1.50am on Monday.

Crews from ESB Networks near Galway airport as they repair power lines (Niall Carson/PA).

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough councillor Ashleen Schenning said the community was in shock after the crash in Limavady.

This has devastated the town, said the SDLP representative. To wake up to this news this morning  it has just left the town in shock and devastation.

Storm Isha caused significant travel disruption and left tens of thousands of homes without power.

As the clean-up began on Monday and repairs were made to power lines, further weather alerts were issued ahead of Storm Jocelyns arrival on Tuesday, which forecasters warned could cause further damage to already weakened structures.

The ESB in Ireland said 68,000 homes and businesses remained without power by 8.45pm on Monday, down from 230,000 at its peak, with the worst-hit areas in the north west.

It said crews would work into the night to restore power for remaining customers.

The electricity supply company also said it would use helicopters to assess the damage to the network.

Northern Ireland Electricity Networks said the impact was severe and widespread.

On Monday afternoon 17,000 customers were still without power, with 53,000 hit by outages at the height of the storm.

Authorities across the island reported fallen trees on roads and urged people not to try to move them as there may be electricity lines tangled within.

Workmen clear up after a number of trees made famous by the TV series Game Of Thrones came down (Liam McBurney/PA)

A number of trees made famous by the TV series Game Of Thrones were damaged and felled by the storm in Co Antrim.

Work was carried out on Monday to clear up at the Dark Hedges site.

The tunnel of trees became famous when it was featured in the HBO fantasy series and now attracts significant numbers of tourists from around the world.

Dublin Airport said winds had eased and flights on Monday continued without restrictions, but because of delays caused by Storm Isha, 29 flights in and out of Dublin had been cancelled on Monday.

There was disruption for hundreds of passengers due to land at airports on the island on Sunday, with several flights that were unable to touch down being rerouted to Great Britain and even continental Europe.

The Road Safety Authority of Ireland advised all road users to be aware of the dangers after the storm passed as there may be hazardous conditions such as flooded roads and downed pylons, lines, trees and other debris on roads.

A status yellow wind warning is in place for counties Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Leitrim and Sligo until 7pm, and further status yellow wind warnings are in place for the entire island on Tuesday and into Wednesday.

A tree branch fell on a car on Lisburn Road, Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA).

Very strong winds are expected in these areas, which can lead to large coastal waves, difficult travelling conditions and objects becoming loose and displaced.

In Northern Ireland, a yellow wind warning remained in place for all counties until noon on Monday.

A woman from Co Down said the storm had brought the worst damage weve seen in this area after a row of five trees were felled in front of her house.

Lisa Wilton, 47, posted a video of the fallen trees on X, formerly Twitter, showing the large trunks spanning the width of her driveway where they had uprooted and toppled over.

Ms Wilton, a user researcher in software design, told the PA news agency: Its the worst damage weve seen in this area. Were just glad nobody was hurt and the house and car are OK.

We cant get the car out at all so well be unable to go anywhere. Luckily I work from home but well definitely need quite a lot of chainsaw work out there.

She added: We looked outside last night and spotted a gap in the tree line. I went with the torch to see if we had lost a tree but couldnt believe the whole row of five trees had gone.

On Tuesday, Storm Jocelyn will bring further risk of large waves along coastal areas, difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees, damage to power lines, and possible damage to already weakened structures.

Met Eireann status orange warnings will be in place on Tuesday from 6pm until midnight for Galway and Mayo, and from 6pm on Tuesday until 2am on Wednesday for Donegal.

Status yellow warnings are in place for all other counties in Ireland from Tuesday afternoon until the early hours of Wednesday.

In Northern Ireland, yellow wind warnings will be in place for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry, with strong winds expected from 4pm on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday.
Israeli soldiers on a tank as they secure the border with the Gaza Strip, where a number of hostages are still being held - AMIR LEVY/GETTY

Israel has proposed a two-month pause in fighting in Gaza in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages held in the territory, US media has reported.

Officials have offered the deal to Hamas through mediators in Qatar and Egypt, the political website Axios reported, citing top Israeli officials. It would not include any agreement to end the war.

More than 130 hostages are thought to still be held by the militant group and its affiliates, although several dozen are thought to have died since they were seized in the terror attack on Oct 7.

Washington has been heavily involved in negotiations towards a deal to secure the release of hostages, with Joe Biden under growing pressure from the Left wing of the Democratic Party to procure a protracted peace.

Mr Biden has rejected calls for him to demand a cease fire but John Kirby, a White House national security spokesman, said on Monday the US president supports a pause to enable the release of Israeli captives and allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Mr Bidens senior Middle East adviser, Brett McGurk, travelled to Egypt on Sunday. He was due to continue on to Qatar, a key intermediary between Israel and Hamas.

American officials told Axios that reaching such an agreement might be the only viable path to a ceasefire in Gaza.

Israeli officials are understood to be awaiting a response from Hamas, but are cautiously optimistic, according to Axios.

Under a deal brokered in late November by the US, Qatar and Egypt, more than 100 of the estimated 240 hostages taken to Gaza during the Oct 7 attack were freed in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians prisoners in Israeli jails.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, has faced intensive domestic criticism from the families of remaining hostages who are in anguish over the fate of their relatives who have been held for more than three months.

At least 25,295 Gazans have been killed since the war began, the Hamas-run health ministry said on Monday. Most of that number are women and children, it said.

Most of Gazas 2.3 million residents are now penned into Rafah just south of Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah just north of it, crammed into public buildings and camps of tents made from plastic sheets lashed to wooden frames.

The Israeli military announced on Monday that 200 of its soldiers have been killed in the territory since its ground operations began in late October.

A photo wall of those who were kidnapped or killed during the Oct 7 attacks - TYRONE SIU/REUTERS

EU intends to press ahead with peace talks

Meanwhile, the European Union intends to press ahead with peace talks to end the war in Gaza without the involvement of Israel, according to an internal document.

A 12-point peace plan drawn up by the Brussels foreign affairs arm states that it is unrealistic to assume that Israelis and Palestinians will shortly directly engage in bilateral peace negotiations.

Instead, the bloc proposed parallel talks with the United States, United Nations, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the League of Arab States, while threatening consequences against Israel if it refuses to engage.

Palestinians will need a revitalised political alternative to Hamas, while Israelis will need to find the political will to engage in meaningful negotiations towards the two-state solution, the document, circulated to European capitals and seen by The Telegraph, says.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is being challenged to sever all links between his party and the think tank set up by Sir Tony Blair.

Sir Tony, who was Labours longest serving prime minister, spending 10 years in Downing Street, set up the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) in 2016.

But SNP Westminster economy spokesperson Drew Hendy has highlighted deep concern about how the organisation is resourced, saying it has received funding from authoritarian governments with damaging human rights records.

With Sir Keir having used a speech earlier this month to highlight the need to clean up politics, Mr Hendy challenged the UK Labour leader to lead by example on this front and make a public commitment to sever all links between the Labour Party and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

In a letter to Sir Keir, given to the PA news agency, Mr Hendry insists this was necessary because of the unclear nature of some of some of the TBIs sources of funding and because of the appalling human rights record of some of the countries which do fund its activities.

Mr Hendry said the TBI had accepted money from the governments of both Kazakhstan and of Bahrain, describing the latter as being a place with an extremely concerning human rights record and whose 2022 elections were described by Human Rights Watch as neither free nor fair.

The SNP MP added: Most notably, the TBI accepted payment of 9 million from the Saudi Arabian government in 2018  paid through a Guernsey-registered firm  despite the brutal murder of Jamal Khashoggi taking place in that same year.

Overall, the TBI has seen its income from foreign governments rise by almost 50% over the past year, although its accounts only selectively list who it receives money from, sometimes vaguely referencing government partners.

SNP Westminster economy spokesperson Drew Hendry, right, raised the issue with the UK Labour leader (House of Commons/PA Archive)

With Sir Keir, who is widely expected to be the UKs next prime minister, having pledged to restore standards in public life, Mr Hendry told the Labour leader he agreed with him on the the need to both end the scourge of dark money in Westminster politics, and to restore public confidence in our politics.

He went on to tell Sir Keir that cutting links with the TBI would send a strong message that you are indeed serious about matching your rhetoric on cleaning up politics with concrete actions.

Mr Hendry said: Sir Keir Starmer has been vocal about his desire to end the scourge of dark money in Westminster politics. The SNP wholeheartedly agrees that this must be a priority for the UK Government.

That is why I am urging him to cut ties with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change after reports revealed the organisation accepted funding from authoritarian governments with shocking human rights records.

Given it is pretty much certain that Labour will form the next UK government, they must lead by example.

He added: It is becoming difficult to find a policy in the Labour manifesto that Sir Keir Starmer hasnt U-turned on but I very much hope that he stays true to his word on wanting to end the Tory practice of foreign money in UK politics.

A spokesperson for the Labour Party said: This is yet another example of the SNP playing games rather than serving Scotland.

With one in seven Scots on an NHS waiting list, the Scottish government should be focused on the issues that matter to people.

If they cant, they should stand aside and let Labour take over.

The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change has been contacted for comment.
Rishi Sunak was pictured against a backdrop of stormy skies as he toured a TV and film production school.

The Prime Minister, who has faced heavy political weather in Westminster, with a Tory revolt over his Rwanda policy and an opinion poll deficit of more than 20 points, posed in front of the image of threatening clouds.

Mr Sunak also took a turn behind a camera and tried his hand at carpentry during a visit to promote the work of the film and TV industry in the UK.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in front of a digital image backdrop projected on to a virtual production wall (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA)

Speaking at the National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, the Prime Minister told broadcasters that the sector is one of the UKs powerhouse industries and should be celebrated and supported.

We have Europes largest film and TV sector and it contributes billions to our economy, employs millions of people.

He continued: Pretty much every film that anyone saw last year will have had alumni from this institution working on it and that is something that should be supported by the government as it is because ultimately it helps us grow our economy.

And thats something thats really important to the country and were training the next generation of talent right here and theyre doing incredible things.

Mr Sunak operates a TV studio floor camera (Richard Pohle/The Times/PA)

The Government announced in June last year a 77 million funding boost to creative industries.

The investment came as part of the Governments aim to grow the sector by 50 billion and create a million more jobs by 2030.

At that time, the Prime Minister called the creative industries a true British success story.

At the NFTS, Mr Sunak was shown a scaled-down replica of a set from the movie Alien, built by students on a model-making course.

Mr Sunak was shown a scaled-down replica of a set from the movie Alien by model-making students (Richard Pohle/The Times)

He discussed his love of Star Wars with a course leader and called the students work fantastic and impressive.

The politician then made his way to the nearby Pinewood Studios  where a number of Bond films were shot and where Star Wars and Marvel movies have also been filmed.

After taking off his jacket and quipping that he was getting serious now, Mr Sunak helped glue slats onto a wooden door in a workshop, and was told by carpenter Adam Jellis that he was a natural.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak got stuck in and helped to make a wooden door at Pinewood Studios with carpenter Adam Jellis (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Jon Wardle, NFTS director, said it was a pleasure to welcome the Prime Minister to the school.

Mr Wardle said: His enthusiasm and passion for the creative industries added an extra layer of excitement as he saw first-hand the outstanding work crafted by our talented students across a variety of productions.

The visit also provided an opportunity to highlight the incredible impact NFTS graduates continue to make on the global stage.
Strategic approach needed to tackle multiple tasks

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to visit Pyongyang soon, North Koreas state media reported Sunday. The Norths official Korean Central News Agency said Putin accepted an invitation from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during a meeting with visiting North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui on Jan. 16.

Putins envisioned visit would be his first since his meeting with the late Kim Jong-il, the father of the current North Korean leader Kim, on July 19, 2000, during a summit in Pyongyang. As Putin is set to brace for a presidential election on March 17, his visit will be made at an appropriate time after the election. KCNA quoted Choe as saying, President Putin extended his deep appreciation to President of State Affairs Kim Jong-uns invitation to visit Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) at a convenient time. We are ready to welcome (President Putin) with all our heart, the KCNA said.

The scheduled visit is raising concerns as it coincides with a significant thaw in military relations between the two isolated nations. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are escalating, with North Korea increasing intimidation tactics against South Korea. The upcoming visit by Putin could potentially further fuel Pyongyang's hostile stance.

Military relations between Pyongyang and Moscow have been relatively subdued since the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s. However, recent developments suggest a shift, sparked by Russia's prolonged conflict with Ukraine. North Korea is reported to have supplied significant numbers of artillery and ammunition to Russia, forging strong military relations with Moscow. In return, the North was allegedly supposed to receive state-of-the-art technologies needed to produce cutting-edge missiles, including inter-continental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Yet, instead of military support, Russia allegedly offered energy and grain to the North.

The North has not succeeded in obtaining military assistance from Russia, primarily because Moscow is unwilling to share advanced military technology with the North. This is the reason why Putin expressed a willingness to visit the North instead of offering such military assistance, said Cho Han-bum, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, in an interview with a KBS radio, Sunday.

This indicates that Russia is aiming to keep a measured distance from North Korea while simultaneously exploring opportunities to strengthen its relations with South Korea. In fact, Russian Ambassador to Korea Georgy Zinoviev said during an exclusive interview with The Korea Times that South Korea is the most favorable among unfavorable nations. He emphasized the importance of restoring normal operations for Korean companies in Russia, leveraging the positive reception that Russian consumers have toward Korean products.

Nevertheless, the growing rapport between the two autocratic states is expected to gain momentum, prompting China to pursue even closer ties with North Korea.

The Yoon Suk Yeol administration needs to resolutely deal with potential military provocations by the North. Yet, on the other hand, it needs to employ more prudent and flexible diplomatic approaches to cope with the growing challenges involving multiple nations.

Russia and China serve as patrons of the isolated North, making it essential to employ skillful tactics to address issues involving them. This is crucial in preventing the North from engaging in further hostile provocations. Urgent diplomatic efforts are necessary to comprehensively ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

Since the dissolution of the former Soviet regime, Seoul and Moscow have successfully enhanced their partnership, particularly in the economic sphere. It is crucial to leverage Russia's influence to build stronger connections with North Korea. To achieve this, exploring potential avenues to restore Seoul-Moscow relations through close consultations and dialogue is essential.
Tickets are on sale for the first major exhibition on Scotlands national animal, which opens to the public in March.

On Monday, Perth Museum announced that the unicorn will be the theme of its first exhibition when the new museum doors open to the public on March 30.

The exhibition, funded by 10 million UK Government investment through the Tay Cities Deal and by Perth and Kinross Council, will explore the cultural history of Scotlands national animal.

It will explore various themes such as Scottish royalty and national symbolism, such as the Stone of Destiny  which is also on display at the museum.

The museum is a 27 million transformation of the former City Hall.

The unicorn has been symbolic to several causes throughout the centuries.

It was once a component of medieval medicine and Scottish royalty.

It has also been adapted in cartoons and movies, and is often used as an icon by the LGBTQI+ community.

The Danny Jewel, enamelled gold and a section of Narwhals tusk, England, ca.1550 (Victoria and Albert Museum, London/PA)

The exhibition will feature spectacular objects including manuscripts, illustrations, paintings, coins, sculpture, tapestry and shop signs.

Star loans include the magical Danny Jewel, an English Elizabethan pendant jewel of narwhal horn and enamelled gold, usually on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London.

Renaissance pendants were sometimes made as amulets for protection against danger.

People once believed that the tusk of the dolphin-like narwhal, found in Arctic waters, came from unicorns.

The V&A is also lending an intricately carved narwhal tusk from the early 12th century.

It is one of only two known medieval examples with carved decoration of foliage, human figures and serpent-tailed dragons.

The stunning oil painting, Lady and the Unicorn by the late-Renaissance Italian artist, Luca Longhi (1507-1580), will be shown in the UK for the first time, on loan from the Museo Nazionale di Castel SantAngelo  highlighting the enduring symbolism of the unicorn in the Middle Ages.

A regal silver unicorn features atop the 19th century ceremonial rod or wand, part of the regalia of the Usher of the White Rod.

Made around the time of King George IVs coronation and visit to Scotland, this rod also featured as part of the Coronation of the King last year.

This represents a tradition that dates back to the inauguration of Gaelic kings and the rod was the primary symbol of a rulers legitimate authority.

Although the Usher of the White Rod has not held duties since Scotlands union with England in 1707, it is the counterpart to the role of the Usher of the Black Rod, now a senior officer in the House of Lords.

Alongside spectacular and historical loans from prestigious UK and international collections, there will also be objects and stories of personal significance from the local community.

From ornaments and images to memorabilia and toys, the display will highlight the enduring power of the unicorn in contemporary culture.

There is still time to submit an object for this project at Perth Art Gallery or one of the participating libraries across Perth & Kinross.

Illustrated page from the Book of Hours by Grote Geert, 1480-1490, Delft, Netherlands (Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge/PA)

UK Government Minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said: The unicorn is an enduring symbol of Scotlands enchanting history, culture and landscape, so it is fitting that Perth Museum has chosen this as the theme of its first exhibition.

The UK Government has invested 10 million in Perth Museum as part of our 150 million support for the Tay Cities Region Deal.

In total we are investing more than 2.9 billion to level up across Scotland.

JP Reid, senior new projects officer for Culture Perth and Kinross, added: From medieval tapestries and oil paintings, to toys, videogames and movies, the figure of the unicorn has been a familiar but shifting cultural icon for over 2,000 years.

We are thrilled to be able to display a stunning selection of artworks and artefacts, including a series of newly commissioned sculptures.

With a long, complex, and often contradictory history, the unicorn has been a popular subject for contemporary artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and activists.

It is a symbol through which ideas like authenticity, belief, gender, and nationalism can be explored.
Brian J. Dorsey

Sixty Missouri Department of Corrections officers and staffers are urging the state's governor to stop the execution of a "model inmate" convicted of killing his cousin and her husband.

Brian Dorsey, 51, is set to be executed in April in the 2006 killing of his cousin, Sarah Bonnie, and her husband, Ben Bonnie. He has been held in the Potosi Correctional Center for most of his sentence.

The Kansas City Star reports that 60 former and current Missouri Department of Corrections officers and prison staffers wrote a letter asking Republican Gov. Mike Parson to grant Dorsey clemency.

We are part of the law enforcement community who believe in law and order, the group wrote in the letter. Generally, we believe in the use of capital punishment. But we are in agreement that the death penalty is not the appropriate punishment for Brian Dorsey.

A representative from the Missouri Department of Corrections says the agency has nothing to do with the letter.

"We have not seen the letter," wrote Karen Pojmann, the communications director for the department, in an email to USA Today. "Purportedly, the letter was sent to the Office of the Governor, and I dont know whether he and his staff have seen it either."

She said the department has no comment on the matter.

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Brian Dorsey lives in 'honor dorm,' works as prison barber

The letter says that Dorsey stays out of trouble and is respectful toward officers and inmates. It also says that Dorsey is housed in an "honor dorm," given to prisoners with good conduct.

Dorsey, who was allowed to be a barber, cut the hair of prisoners and officers, including the former warden of Potosi, Troy Steele, who called Dorsey a "model inmate"

"Offender Dorsey has been able to conduct himself in this environment in exceptional fashion having exhibited no behavioral issues while under the scrutiny of the correctional staff and the harassment of other offenders," Steele said in a report.

Brian Dorsey's family weighs in

Jenni Gerhauser, a cousin of both Dorsey's and victim Sarah Bonnie, joined the 60 corrections staff members in speaking out against his execution.

Its a unique experience because you are on both sides of this story, Gerhauser told the Star. Youve got a vested interest on both sides. Theres no winners in something like this, theres not.

She said the execution would affect more than just Dorsey.

Youre punishing more than just the person youre executing and thats cruel and unusual in my opinion. she told the Star.

Dorsey and Gerhauser were born three weeks apart. The two grew up together, and spent birthdays, holidays and summers with one another.

Gerhauser told the publication that she feels helpless.

Were very much living in the middle of eye-for-an-eye country. But I wish people would understand its not that black and white, she said, adding that her cousin's defense at trial was a "joke."

What do Brian Dorsey's attorneys say?

Megan Crane, an attorney for Dorsey, filed an 80-page petition at the end of December, saying that her client was denied the constitutional right to effective representation.

Dorsey was experiencing drug psychosis the night of the crime and thus incapable of deliberation  the requisite intent for capital murder, the petition says.

His team is made up of federal public defenders who took on the case pro-bono, Arin Brenner, an attorney with his defense team, told USA Today.

Dorsey's attorneys at trial were paid a flat fee to represent him in his original case, which is problematic, Brenner said.

"No matter how much work they did or didn't do, they still get the same amount of money," said Brenner. "So they convinced Brian to plead guilty to a crime he didn't remember and neurologically could not have committed in exchange for nothing."

The petition says the flat-fee structure under which Dorsey's attorneys were hired caused a clear conflict that "adversely affected" Dorsey's case.

Governor denies clemency

According to the Star, Parson has denied every request for clemency since he's been in office.

But Brenner says two things set Dorsey's case apart from the others.

"One, is the complete lack of due process and Sixth Amendment protections that Brian received," she said. "He didn't have effective counsel. He didn't get his basic constitutional rights."

Brenner told USA Today that his attorneys chose to skip the guilt phase of a trial when a jury decides if a person is guilty, according to the Office of Victims Services.

"He missed the most important phase of any defendant's trial," said Brenner.

The second reason Brenner believes sets Dorsey's case apartment is that "he has been extraordinary as an inmate."

"There is this sense that if he isn't given clemency, then why should prisoners make better choices and choose to behave in prison if everyone just gets executed at the end?" Brenner states.

When is Brian Dorsey's execution scheduled?

Dorsey's execution date was set for 6 p.m. on April 9 by the Missouri Supreme Court, according to the Columbia Daily Tribune, part of the USA TODAY Network.

As Attorney General, I want to enforce the laws as written, which includes carrying out the lawful sentence that has been upheld by multiple courts, including the nations highest court, said Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey in a statement. My office is committed to obtaining justice for victims of heinous crimes, and we will use every tool at our disposal to make Missouri the safest state in the nation.

What happened in 2006?

Dorsey was in debt to his drug dealers when, on the night of Dec. 23, 2006, he was with his cousin Sarah Bonnie and her husband, Ben, drinking and playing billiards in New Bloomfield, a city about 13 miles north of Jefferson City, the Daily Tribune reported.

After other friends left, Dorsey killed his cousin and her husband with a shotgun. Dorsey also left with cash, his cousin's car and other property to pay off his debts.

Sarah Bonnie's mother found their remains on Christmas Day in 2006. Dorsey turned himself in to authorities the next day.

The couple were survived by a daughter.

Contributing: Charles Dunlap, Columbia Daily Tribune

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Missouri corrections officers try to stop Brian Dorsey's execution
A deadly salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupes has ended, the CDC said. The statement comes after health officials in recent weeks issued a flurry of warnings and recalls over the melons.

The CDC said on Friday that cantaloupes recalled in connection with the bacteria outbreak had passed their use-by-dates and were no longer for sale. Sweeping recalls of whole and pre-sliced cantaloupes from brands such as Malichita and Rudy began last November, with major grocers such as Kroger, Trader Joe's and Walmart also pulling melons from their shelves, according to the CDC.

The CDC did not immediately respond to CBS MoneyWatch's request for comment.

Cantaloupes tainted with salmonella have been linked to six deaths, in addition to more than 400 illnesses across 44 states in recent months, the CDC said in its latest notice. Illnesses caused by the fruits were often serious: Nearly 40% of those who reported becoming sick after eating the fruits were hospitalized, according to the agency's data.

While consuming cantaloupe is no longer a cause for concern, there continues to be legal fallout over illnesses linked to the melons.

National food safety law firm Ron Simon & Associates last year filed at least five lawsuits on behalf of consumers who came down with severe cases of salmonella after eating contaminated cantaloupes, including one complaint involving a baby in Florida who required hospital care.

Salmonella can cause serious illness, and is especially harmful to young children, elderly people and those with weakened immune systems. The organism causes an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, causing an average of more than 26,000 hospitalizations and 420 deaths, CDC data shows.

Other food products have also recently been recalled over salmonella concerns, including Quaker Oats, which this month expanded a recall of cereals and granola bars because they could be contaminated with the bacteria.

Charles Osgood, longtime host of "Sunday Morning," dies at 91

Breaking down the New Hampshire primary results

Trump will win New Hampshire primary, CBS News projects
GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley said President Biden and former President Trump are equally bad for the nation Sunday.

In an interview with CNNs Dana Bash, Haley blasted the two presidential front-runners for focusing too much on the past and not talking about solutions of the future. She said that she has no drama and no vendettas as she attempts to pull off a surprise win in New Hampshire this week.

When pressed further on whether Biden and Trump are equally bad, she told Bash that they were and attacked them both over their age.

I mean, if they were  if either one of them was good I wouldnt be running. Yes, they are equally bad, thats why Im running is because I dont think we need to have Biden or Trump. I dont think we need to have two 80-year-olds sitting in the White House when weve basically got to make sure that we can handle the war situation that  that were in, she said.

We need to know theyre at the top of their game. We need to know that they can take care of our national security and our economy. Right now, I dont know that people feel like that with either one. So thats why were giving them a choice, she added.

Biden and Trump are the two front-runners of their respective parties for next Novembers election, setting up a likely 2020 rematch for the two. Biden, 81, has been criticized frequently for his age while Haley has continued to call for a new generational leader in the Republican Party.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Sunday he was dropping out of the GOP primary, leaving Haley as the only major challenger to Trump in the Republican race. She is currently trailing Trump by about 11 points in New Hampshire, according to The Hill/Decision Desk HQs polling average.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Gram Slattery, Nathan Layne and James Oliphant

FRANKLIN, N.H. (Reuters) -Donald Trump's last remaining Republican opponent, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, was making a final push on Monday to convince New Hampshire voters to turn out and deliver her an upset victory in the state's presidential nominating contest.

New Hampshire's primary vote on Tuesday will split the state's Republican voters into two camps: those with former president Trump, and those against him. The contest became a one-on-one race on Sunday, when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his struggling campaign and endorsed Trump.

Trump, who polls show leads Haley by double digits, is hoping to deliver a fatal blow to the former South Carolina governor's campaign by notching another commanding win. He coasted to a record-setting victory in Iowa's first-in-the-nation contest last week.

For Haley, New Hampshire represents perhaps her last chance to prove the Republican base could consider someone other than Trump, who commands the party's faithful despite facing 91 felony counts. He has pleaded not guilty to every crime, claiming political persecution.

At the first of five planned campaign events in New Hampshire on Monday, Haley told a packed veterans' hall in a working class town that Trump was hung up on vendettas and pre-occupied with court cases, keeping him from focusing on the future.

"When you go out on Tuesday, you're gonna decide: do you want more of the same, or do you want something new?," Haley, 52, asked voters in Franklin.

Trump, 77, is having just one event, a 9 p.m. ET rally in the central town of Laconia, where he will be joined by former Republican presidential candidates, including Senator Tim Scott and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who have since endorsed him.

The state's large number of independent voters, who are permitted to cast ballots in Tuesday's election, make New Hampshire friendlier turf for Haley than more conservative Iowa.

Even so, Trump holds a double-digit lead in most statewide public polls. A poll released by Monmouth University on Monday, but conducted before DeSantis dropped out, showed 52% of voters would choose Trump, 34% would choose Haley and 8% would choose DeSantis. DeSantis supporters were twice as likely to name Trump than Haley as their second choice, according to the poll.

'HALEY HAS A SHOT'

Tuesday's result could hinge on voter turnout and the ratio of Republicans to independents, known in the state as "undeclareds," said Jim Merrill, a Republican strategist in New Hampshire.

"Nikki Haley has a shot here tomorrow and that shot is having enough Republican voters (stay home), then a large undeclared turnout," Merrill told a media roundtable.

Merrill said for Haley to prevail turnout would likely need to be close to 340,000 voters. That's higher than the projection for a record-setting 322,000 voters disclosed by the New Hampshire secretary of state's office last week.

The current record for a New Hampshire Republican presidential primary is 287,653 voters in 2016.

A Haley victory could give her the momentum and fundraising she needs ahead of the next major nominating contest on Feb. 24 in South Carolina, her home state where she served two terms as governor.

The winner of this year's Republican nominating contests will take on President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, in November's general election.

The national Democratic Party made South Carolina its first official primary, so Biden is not on the ballot on Tuesday. Still, support for Biden's write-in campaign in New Hampshire will be closely-watched amid weak polls for the 81-year-old president.

On Monday, after a robocall using fake audio of Biden urging Democrats to stay home began circulating in New Hampshire, the White House denied the president had made any such recording and said it highlights the risks of "deep fakes" and misinformation.

TRUMP TRIAL POSTPONED

Trump had been expected to spend the morning potentially testifying in a New York courtroom in a defamation case brought against him by author E. Jean Carroll, who says he raped her decades ago. Trump accuses Carroll of making up the story to boost her memoir.

But the trial was postponed to Tuesday after a juror reported feeling ill and a parent of Trump's lead lawyer tested positive for COVID-19. The judge in the trial said he will decide later whether to let Trump testify on Wednesday, so he can be in New Hampshire for Tuesday's vote.

As with his criminal cases, which he has frequently used in fundraising pleas, Trump has portrayed the Carroll case as part of a broader conspiracy by liberal forces to derail his candidacy.

In recent days, Haley has intensified her attacks on Trump, asserting he has suffered some cognitive decline since his time in the White House and criticizing him for embracing authoritarian foreign leaders.

At a rally on Sunday in Rochester, New Hampshire, Trump accused Haley of relying on an "unholy alliance" of liberals, "never-Trumpers" who oppose him and RINOs, or Republicans in Name Only. He has used a version of her given first name, Nimarata, as an insult and amplified false posts on social media questioning her birthright U.S. citizenship.

Haley is the daughter of Indian immigrants and was born in South Carolina.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne in Rochester, New Hampshire, Gram Slattery in Franklin, New Hampshire and James Oliphant in Manchester, New Hampshire; Writing by Joseph Ax and Rami Ayyub; editing by Miral Fahmy, Alistair Bell and Deepa Babington)
New Delhi  Hundreds of millions of Hindus celebrated the opening of a grand new temple in the northern India city of Ayodhya on Monday, but the decision by India's Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi to preside over the inauguration on a site at the heart of a centuries-old ownership dispute between India's Hindus and Muslims was a cause for anxiety among millions of others in the country.

Even some of Modi's Hindu political opponents have accused the leader of what has long been considered the world's biggest democracy of mixing politics with religion for personal gain.

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The inauguration ceremony was a mega-event attended by thousands of religious leaders, politicians, Bollywood actors and billionaire business leaders. Ayodhya city, in Uttar Pradesh state, where the new temple is located, was decorated for the day, but also turned into a fortress by thousands of security forces. Millions more Hindus in India and around the world who couldn't be there to witness the inauguration in person were glued to TV screens to watch coverage of the event.

Why the Ayodhya temple is so special, and controversial

The new temple is no ordinary Hindu house of worship. The three-story, pink sandstone structure is built on one of Hinduism's holiest sites, revered as the birthplace of Lord Ram, one of the religion's most revered deities.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to attend the opening of a grand temple to the Hindu god Lord Ram in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, Jan. 22, 2024. / Credit: India's Press Information Bureau/Handout via REUTERS

But for centuries, what stood at the site was a mosque, built by the Muslim Mughal Empire ruler Babur. That temple, built in the 1500s, is believed to have been constructed on the ruins of an even older Hindu temple.

The 16th century mosque, long disused by then, was demolished illegally by mobs of Hindu hardliners in 1992, who scaled a perimeter fence to tear it down. That incident ignited Hindu-Muslim riots that left more than 2,000 people dead and brought into sharp focus the fault line between members of the two religions in the area.

For almost two decades after the demolition of the mosque, right wing political parties including Modi's own BJP and other Hindu hardline groups rallied to build the Ram Temple on the site.

The Muslim community launched court battles over the mosque's destruction, seeking to block the construction of a Hindu temple and keep the site in Muslim hands.

Work started on the temple, however, after a 2019 ruling by India's Supreme Court in favor of the Hindus, which ordered the disputed piece of land to be given to them for the new temple. The ruling provided an alternate piece of land more than 15 miles away for Muslims to build a new mosque, but construction has not yet started.

Hindu devotees watch on a big screen as India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the inauguration of the Hindu Lord Ram temple, in Ayodhya, India, Jan. 22, 2024. / Credit: ADNAN ABIDI/REUTERS

Nearly 8,000 people attended Monday's ceremony in Ayodhya in person, while more than 10,000 police personnel guarded the city of 3 million, according to Indian media. Security was also stepped up nationwide, especially in places which have witnessed Hindu-Muslim violence in the past.

Modi vows "a new era" for India

The opening of the temple is expected to bolster Modi and his BJP ahead of general elections this summer, in which the prime minister is seeking a third term in office. Critics argue that Modi and his party have deliberately shored up their support by focusing on the revival of Hindu nationalism and the marginalization of India's Muslims, who make up around 15% of India's 1.4 billion people.

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The BJP's support has risen under Modi while the opposition has frayed and become disorganized. If he wins a third term, it would set Modi up to become one of India's longest-serving prime ministers ever. It was, in fact, a vow made by the BJP 32 years ago to build a new temple at the site in Ayodhya that helped the party rise to power.

On Monday, inside the temple, television cameras beamed the ceremony around the world as Modi presided over the Pran Pratishtha, or consecration ceremony, for an idol of Lord Ram. The powerful imagery will be etched in many Indians' minds, showing Modi as the man who restored Lord Ram to his birthplace.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the inauguration of the grand temple of the Hindu god Lord Ram in Ayodhya, India, Jan. 22, 2024. / Credit: India's Press Information Bureau/Handout via REUTERS

Modi spoke during the event of restoring Hindu pride and declared India to be at "the beginning of a new era."

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"Lord Ram has finally arrived, following a wait of centuries," the premier said. "We have to now lay the foundation of India for the next 1,000 years. We take a pledge to build a capable, grand, divine India from this moment."

"Brought forward for electoral gain"

Only the ground floor of the temple was opened Monday. The structure is expected to be completed by the end of the year, and the decision to inaugurate the partially opened structure early, ahead of the summer elections, was criticized by Modi's opponents.

The Lord Ram temple is illuminated after its inauguration in Ayodhya, India, Jan. 22, 2024. / Credit: ADNAN ABIDI/REUTERS

Several Hindu opposition political parties, including the Indian National Congress, stayed away from the inauguration, accusing Modi of politicizing a religious event.

"Lord Ram is worshipped by millions in our country. Religion is a personal matter. But the RSS/BJP have long made a political project of the temple in Ayodhya," the Congress party said in a statement. "The inauguration of the incomplete temple by the leaders of the BJP and the RSS has been obviously brought forward for electoral gain."

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MANCHESTER, N.H.  On Sunday morning, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis summoned several of his closest advisers to the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee for a final conversation about his presidential campaign's future, according to a person familiar with the discussion.

Then, DeSantis and his wife, Casey, left the advisers to have a private conversation in the upstairs residence. They decided he would pull the plug on a campaign that had no reasonable path forward. By the time they returned to the advisers, DeSantis had written down lines that would form part of the announcement that he was suspending the campaign.

The discussions at the Governor's Mansion were the culmination of nearly a week of conversations between DeSantis and his advisers that began last Monday night, shortly after he placed a distant second to former President Donald Trump in the Iowa caucuses.

Florida Governor and 2024 Republican presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the US presidential race. (Christian Monterrosa / AFP - Getty Images)

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, one of DeSantis' most prominent backers, traveled to Tallahassee for the final round of discussions, helping DeSantis weigh the merits of exiting the race before the New Hampshire primary and the pros and cons of endorsing Trump, according to people familiar with his role.

Reached by phone Sunday night, Roy said he has been "continuously talking to the governor" during the campaign and thinks "he took the right step" in cutting the campaign short and endorsing Trump. He declined to detail his conversations with DeSantis.

DeSantis had hoped to carry his primary fight against Trump and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley past this week's New Hampshire primary and into South Carolina, where his advisers believed he would at least have a chance to gain some traction over the next month.

U.S. President Donald Trump holds a

But money was drying up. His campaign and its allied super PACs couldn't raise enough to replenish the tens of millions of dollars that had been spent in a vain bid to win Iowa. DeSantis wanted to understand what had happened in Iowa and why  and what his outlook was in the coming states on the calendar. He peppered advisers with questions while he continued to campaign.

For several days, DeSantis caromed around the East Coast, dropping in and out of South Carolina, New Hampshire and Florida, without any discernible change in his fortunes. Apparent decisions to focus on South Carolina at the expense of New Hampshire were signaled to the media, taken back and then reshuffled again. All the while, polls showed him in single digits in New Hampshire, positioned to finish far behind both Trump and Haley, and South Carolina didnt look much better.

By Thursday, "the information gaps were closed," said the person familiar with DeSantis' deliberations. But DeSantis wanted to visit with voters one more time, and he traveled to New Hampshire and South Carolina to get a last look at the electorate. After his last event in South Carolina on Saturday, he traveled home to Tallahassee, where he would make his final call.

In the hours before he announced his decision to suspend the campaign, he canceled planned appearances on Sunday television shows, including NBC's "Meet the Press," which led allies and adversaries alike to conclude he was on his way out.

Everyone wanted to stay in until South Carolina, but raising money became so hard, and it was not going to get easier, a DeSantis adviser said.

DeSantis announced his departure in a post on X, in which he also endorsed Trump.

"They have had obvious huge policy differences, but he sees Nikki as a corporate sellout and globalist and, outside of Covid, philosophically agrees with Trump, the adviser said. That decision needed to be made, as far as he is concerned.

DeSantis had criticized Trump during the campaign for issuing federal guidelines on social distancing and masking and for promoting vaccines in response to the coronavirus pandemic. But there was consensus within his inner circle that endorsing Trump was the right move, said three people familiar with their views.

Until it was announced, the decision was kept to a close circle of advisers: A campaign surrogate, donor Dan Eberhart, was en route to New Hampshire when he found out the campaign had been ended. Several other aides to DeSantis' campaign and super PACs said they werent told in advance.

Neither DeSantis nor his advisers had any negotiation or discussion with Trumps team, a senior Trump adviser said.

The denouement didnt come as a surprise to DeSantis allies, but the timing did.

"I am not shocked," Eberhart said. I thought he would have been the best president, but he wasnt the best candidate.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Campaigns For President In New Hampshire (Brandon Bell / Getty Images)

DeSantis, who at one point looked like a serious threat to Trump's third consecutive nomination, absorbed attacks from the former president for months before he entered the race in May. His early forays on the campaign trail included numerous awkward interactions with voters and the news media in Iowa and New Hampshire.

Trump's camp mocked him for a technological malfunction that undercut his campaign launch on what was then called Twitter Spaces, for reportedly eating pudding with his fingers and for wearing boots with heels that gave him an extra couple of inches of height.

Trump routinely ridiculed him as "Ron DeSanctimonious."

DeSantis' poll numbers began to slide amid the early attacks and as some Republican voters rallied to Trump after his indictment in a hush-money case in New York, which was followed by indictments in three other jurisdictions.

Though he was clearly more comfortable on the stump in the final phases of the campaign  as well as on the debate stage  DeSantis couldn't overcome a series of strategic, tactical and rhetorical blunders.

DeSantis campaign overspent in the summer and had to cut its staffing. He farmed out much of the work for his campaign to a super PAC called Never Back Down, to which he had transferred more than $80 million in leftover state-level campaign funds. Unable to coordinate legally, the campaign and the super PAC clashed. The cash-tight campaign ultimately replaced its original chief, Generra Peck, with James Uthmeier.

In the weeks before the Iowa caucuses, with Haley rising in polls nationally and in early states, DeSantis and his team began moving the goalposts. Where they had once declared he would win Iowa, the aim became a strong second-place finish and, ultimately, just avoiding an embarrassing third-place showing.

When DeSantis outperformed late polling to take second in Iowa, he vowed to soldier on  in the hope that he could shake Haley and get into a one-on-one contest with Trump himself. In the end, it would be Haley who would get a shot at Trump as his only serious rival.

Blaise Ingoglia, a Florida state senator who is among DeSantis closest allies there and campaigned for him down the stretch in Iowa, told NBC News that the timing of DeSantis departure Sunday afternoon surprised him. But the news itself didnt.

Ingoglia said that he had a statement prepared in advance and that he quickly posted it to X. He then promptly endorsed Trump.

Although this is not his time, Ingoglia said in the statement, I have all the confidence in his ability and his passion to continue fighting not only for Floridians, but for the greatness that is the United States of America.

Many DeSantis allies believe he will be back in 2028, when they expect there wont be an incumbent president or a force-of-nature, multi-time Republican nominee blocking his path.

In the meantime, a source familiar with DeSantis' schedule said, he is spending time with his family in Florida. There is no plan to campaign with Trump, the person said.
Mohamed Salah will return to Liverpool after sustaining an injury at this years African Cup of Nations (AFCON), but Egypts captain may find himself on a flight back to the Ivory Coast should his nation qualify for the semifinals of the tournament.

According to statement from his club Liverpool, Salah sustained a muscle injury during Egypts group match against Ghana on Thursday and is set to return to the UK in order to receive treatment after watching his nations group match against Cape Verde on Monday.

The extent of Salahs injury is currently unknown but Egypt said it hoped to catch him in the semifinals should the team get that far without him. The Pharaohs will definitely qualify for the knockout rounds with a win in its final group game. It will then play the last 16 and quarterfinals without Salah.

However long he is out, I think probably everybody sees that it makes sense that he is doing the rehab with us or with our people, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said Sunday after his teams 4-0 away win at Bournemouth in the Premier League.

When asked if he thought Salah would be fit enough to rejoin the national team in Ivory Coast, Klopp said: Im not a doctor. I would say if Egypt qualify for the final and he is fit before the final then probably yes. Why not?

Thats clear, its the tournament. Ivory Coast, I am sure it is a wonderful country, but we have no people from us there and their people have to take care of the players who are playing, so lets see.

Salah has never won AFCON for his country but came close in 2021 when Egypt lost the final to Senegal on penalties. He also finished runner-up in 2017 when his country lost 2-1 to Cameroon in the final.

I have won everything possible but not this one yet, Salah told reporters, per Reuters.

It will happen somehow, that is what I believe, and whatever I believe I achieve, so sooner or later it will happen.

If this is to be his year, Salah will certainly be made to work for it.

There is approximately 5,300km between Liverpool and Abidjan, where Egypt play Cape Verde on Monday, meaning the 31-year-old might clock up over 20,000km of flying in order to help his country win an eighth AFCON title.

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By Deauwand Myers

Revenge... is like a rolling stone, which, when a man hath forced up a hill, will return upon him with a greater violence, and break those bones whose sinews gave it motion. Jeremy Taylor, British clergyman and theologian, (1613-67).

Theres no love lost as far as I feel about Koreas conservative party, the People Power Party (PPP), which is nothing but a light version of American conservatism.

A previous version of the PPP sought a rebranding after the disastrous tenure of Koreas only female president, Park Geun-hye. Besides having an authoritarian bent in her governing style  much less than her father, but no less arrogant  and lacking the charisma or vision her late father had, President Park was woefully unprepared for the job. Some Korean political pundits even predicted there wouldnt be another conservative presidential administration for a generation.

American Republicans suffered this for decades in the U.S. House. Democrats won a majority in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1954 and did not relinquish said majority until the so-called Republican Revolution of 1994. In short, for 40 years, two generations, Democrats controlled the House, unopposed in power. Democrats also achieved a majority in the Senate which it maintained until 1980.

For well over a quarter century, Democrats had senatorial control, a feat made more impressive by the anti-majoritarian design built into the American Constitution (where in the Senate, two senators represent every state regardless of the population of said state). So a state like Wyoming, with a population (around 579,000 people) three times smaller than the city of Daegu (2.4 million), has the same Senate representation as the two senators of California (with over 40 million people). That's 26 years control of the Senate. This also means for over a quarter of a century, Democrats had a majority in Congress.

Indeed, seeing the massive protests in the streets of Korea in 2016 and 2017 against the Park administration, I concluded her tenure would be a death blow to her party for years and years to come. Yet, five years after her impeachment, conviction and imprisonment, her party ascended again to the presidency with President Yoon Suk Yeol.

President Yoon, regardless of his politics, which differ from my own, has an impressive resume, having led the successful prosecutions of two of his own partys luminaries, former presidents Park Geun-hye and Lee Myung-Bak. It took a great deal of integrity and political courage to levy such blows to the same party of which he wished to become the presidential nominee in some not-too-distant future.

And so I wonder, because the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) lost the last presidential election, is that partys attempts to have a special counsel investigate President Yoons wife merely political retribution, with no substance to the claims therein, about activities done over a decade ago, none of which implicate President Yoon himself?

It's not unlike the American Republicans and their shameless and substanceless claims of some kind of criminality with President Biden and his son Hunter Bidens business transactions (when President Biden was either vice president or a private citizen). By the way, if there was something untoward in said dealings (again, this has been thoroughly investigated and not a scintilla of wrongdoing by President Biden has been unearthed), a president cannot be charged with articles of impeachment for misdeeds committed outside said office.

I think the National Assemblys passing of a special counsel bill is mere political theater and retribution, just like with American Republicans and President Biden, because ex-President Trump has 91 felony indictments across multiple jurisdictions. (Further, federal indictments have a 95 percent to 99 percent success rate toward convictions, so Trump will be convicted and very likely imprisoned, if he loses on appeal.)

Again, when it comes to President Yoon, and certainly his party, and I do not agree on some political and sociopolitical issues, like the protection of rights of women in the workplace and the rights of sexual minorities  a stain on Korean society, because even conservative Japan has some legislation protecting the rights of sexual minorities, like non-discrimination against the LGBTQI+ community.

But that does not mean Im for meaningless and unproductive legislation meant to politically wound the Yoon administration and does nothing to advance Korean society, whose domestic problems are aplenty: high unemployment of young, college-educated Koreans, underemployment and poor wage growth among salaried and hourly wage workers alike, lack of wage parity between men and women, mental health and suicide, low birthrates, frighteningly high household debt, the existential threat of North Korea and China with its designs to conquer Taiwan, and soon, and Korea depending so heavily on an export economy for economic growth.

Retribution and revenge rarely ends well, for interpersonal relationships and political parties. Koreas DPK should find better things to do with its time.

Deauwand Myers (deauwand@hotmail.com) holds a masters degree in English literature and literary theory, and is a private English teacher.




Shelling killed at least 28 people and injured 30, including two children, near a market in the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine on Sunday, according to Russian officials. Moscow blamed Ukraine for the attack, while Kyiv denied responsibility.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that a market and shops in the citys Kirovsky district were targeted with multiple launch rocket systems, with the shelling reportedly coming from the direction of Avdiivka. Kyiv once again committed a barbaric terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia, the Russian ministry said. There are a large number of victims.

CNN is unable to independently verify this claim.

Ukraines armed forces said they were not responsible for the shelling attacks. The Russians are spreading [mis-]information about the strike on a market in Donetsk. We responsibly declare that the forces under the control of the Tavria military formation did not engage in combat operations in this case, a statement on the Facebook page of the armed forces Tavria command said.

Russia must be held accountable for the lives of the Ukrainians taken, it added.

Russia has responded with outrage to previous Ukrainian attacks but has been responsible for thousands of civilians deaths following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Russias Investigative Committee has launched an investigation and all those involved and responsible for this and other terrorist attacks on our soil will suffer inevitable punishment, the ministry said.

Denis Pushilin, the head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk Peoples Republic, said that the attack came on the busiest day of the week for the area and that search teams were looking for fragments of weapons.

At least 27 civilians were killed and at least 25 were injured in the area of a market and shops in the Kirovsky district of the city of Donetsk, Pushilin said in a Telegram post.

Another man was also killed on Sunday in another part of Donetsk city as a result of shelling, Pushilin said. Five additional people were wounded in the city and elsewhere in Russian-occupied parts of the region on Sunday, he said.

Residential buildings, a school and shops in different Russian-occupied parts of the region were also damaged, he said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the deadly attacks on Russian-controlled parts of Donetsk region, a UN spokesperson said on Sunday.

The Secretary-General strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including todays shelling of the city of Donetsk in Ukraine, the spokesperson said in a statement.

Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law, are unacceptable and must stop immediately, the statement continued.

Static frontlines of war

Donetsk is one of four Ukrainian regions that Moscow said in 2022 it would recognize as Russian territory  an annexation process which is illegal under international law.

The region, which is partially but not fully controlled by Russian forces, is on the frontline of fighting in the east.

The Donetsk attack comes with the frontlines of the war largely static.

Ukraines counteroffensive failed to deliver major gains and its troops are now under pressure from Russia at several points along the 1,000 kilometer-long frontline.

Kyivs troops have withdrawn from the village of Krokhmalne in the northeast of the country, close to the border between Kharkiv and Luhansk regions  with an army spokesman saying on Ukrainian TV that its troops position have been moved to where it is more advantageous for them to destroy the enemy.

In another indication of increasing Russian pressure, Ukraines military says it expects to see Russias forces step up operations around the embattled town of Avdiivka, as well as nearby Nevelske and Pervomaiske  which all lie to the immediate northwest of Donetsk city.

The enemy is regrouping, and we are preparing for an increase in their activity, a Ukrainian army spokesperson said.

In recent months, Avdiivka has become a focus of Russias fight, in much the same way that Bakhmut was in the first half of 2023. The Ukrainian army spokesman said Russia now had about 40,000 Russian personnel in the area.

Firefighters work to extinguish a fire at a terminal belonging to Novatek, Russia's largest liquefied natural gas producer, in the port of Ust-Luga, Russia, on Sunday. - Alexander Drozdenko/Leningrad Region Governor/Telegram/Reuters

Ukraine strikes oil terminal in Russia

In a separate development, a Ukrainian defense source told CNN that Ukraine carried out a drone attack on a Russian oil terminal about 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of Saint Petersburg, the latest example of Ukraines capacity to strike deep inside Russia.

A night-time video posted by Leningrad regional boss Alexander Drozdenko showed what appeared to be a significant fire at the Novatek facility in Ust-Luga, which sits on the Gulf of Finland. Later videos showed fire-fighters tackling the blaze. Authorities said there were no injuries.

According to Novateks website, the Ust-Luga complex sees the processing of liquified natural gas products into various types of fuel, including naptha, jet fuel, fuel oil and gasoil.

The Ukrainian defense source said the products are used to supply, among others, the Russian military, adding: The successful attack on this facility will complicate the enemys logistics. .

A Ukrainian defense source said Ukraine carried out a drone strike on the oil terminal. - Yuri Zapalatsky/Kingiseppsky District Administration Head/Telegram/Reuters

The attack comes three days after a Ukrainian intelligence source claimed another drone operation targeting the St. Petersburg region. This is a new stage, the source told CNN. Our targets are military facilities and oil depots.

Elsewhere, Ukraine also carried out drone strikes in the Tula, Smolensk and Belgorod regions.

This story has been updated with further developments.

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At least 75 people have died in the winter storms that have continued to pound much of the United States for a week and a half, officials said.

About 57 million people woke up to winter weather alerts Monday, with systems producing freezing rain in the Midwest and the South for residents of eastern Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois and Arkansas.

That freezing rain will continue across parts of the Midwest and the southern Great Lakes on Tuesday, with storms producing periods of rain or snow before moving into Canada.

Another round of freezing rain is expected to break out across the central Plains and the Great Lakes regions Wednesday.

These dangerous winter weather conditions have led to at least 72 deaths directly attributed to rain, ice and snow since Jan. 12, local officials have said.

At least 30 of those deaths have happened in Tennessee, more than in any other state. Many of those deaths have been preliminarily attributed to hypothermia and car accidents, officials have said.

Public schools in Nashville and Memphis remained closed Monday as officials continued to urge Tennesseans to stay off dangerous, ice-slicked roads.

The cold snap also wreaked havoc on the Memphis water system, plagued by burst pipes on account of the cold.

While Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) lifted its water conservation order at 11 a.m. Monday, its boil advisory remain.

It'll take until Wednesday for water pressure to be sufficient for testing that'd take another 18 to 24 hours to complete, MLGW President and CEO Doug McGowen said.

"Assuming good results, we think that means Thursday for lifting of the boil water advisory," McGowen told reporters Sunday.

Even if it's not snowing or raining, hazardous conditions remain all over Tennessee.

For example, a pickup almost went off a 200-foot cliff in Maury County on Sunday. A local sheriff's detective who saw the driver losing control stopped to help and called fire rescuers, officials said.

Responders secured the pickup truck and got the man out of his precariously dangling vehicle, authorities said.
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The dirtiest things in your kitchen you should clean or replace, ASAP. (Getty Images)

Whether you consider yourself a neat freak or not, you probably clean your kitchen countertops pretty regularly. And you likely know how to wash produce and cook meat to a safe temperature. However, you can do all of that and still expose yourself to tons of germs in your cooking space.

Not to scare you, but there are a lot of unexpected places that harbor dirt, grime and bacteria in your kitchen. According to a study on cross-contamination across a variety of kitchen surfaces published by the Journal of Food Protection in 2022, researchers found that spice jars had the highest amount of cross-contamination.

The study asked a set of consumers to prepare a meal using turkey patties containing bacteriophage MS2, and a lettuce salad. Once they were done, researchers took samples to assess cross-contamination with MS2 and found that for most surfaces, positivity did not exceed 20%, with the exception of spice containers, for which 48% of the samples showed evidence of MS2 cross-contamination.

The lesson? Always wash your hands after touching food. Heck, you may even want to invest in an automated soap dispenser so you dont have to touch that either.

Secura Secura 17-Ounce Automatic Liquid Soap Dispenser Have you ever thought about how dirty your pump-top soap dispenser might be? This battery-operated automatic model has a motion sensor to detect when your hand is underneath and squirts out the perfect amount of soap. More than 27,000 Amazon shoppers have given it a five-star rating, with one reporting: "I have ordered six of these in our home and really love them. They're easy to fill and maintain, and there's no mess with them. Very easy to use, nice quality." $29 at Amazon

Of course, you may also want to wash your spice jars with hot soapy water or even replace them (while you're at it, go ahead and toss any spices that may be expired  yes, they can go bad).

AOZITA Aozita 24-Piece Glass Spice Jars with Labels These 4-ounce containers not only give your cabinet a more uniform look, but they're easy to clean and come with a funnel, so it's easy to fill them up. $20 at Amazon

Trust us, though; there are lots of other germy areas in your kitchen. Below, some of the dirtiest things in your kitchen you should probably junking or scrubbing ASAP.

Things you should replace in your kitchen in 2024

Kitchen Sponges

This one may seem like a no-brainer, but it's easy to forget to replace your kitchen sponges, brushes and cloths. According to study from Scientific Reports on kitchen sponges, researchers found that "a single cubic centimeter could be packed with more than 5 x 1,010 bacteria." For comparison, the report says that such bacteria densities are generally only found in feces. Have we got your attention now?

If you think cleaning your sponge will help  nope! The study also found that boiling or microwaving a sponge only increases bacteria growth! Instead, you should replace your sponges regularly  ideally once every week or two.

WUHUIXOZ Kitchen Cleaning Sponges, 24-Pack If you're game to start a weekly sponge-replacement regimen, this 24-pack will last you about six months. With this deal, that'll net out to about $2.50 per month  not bad! $15 at Amazon

Cutting Boards

More bad news: Your go-to slicing-and-dicing surface can harbour 200% more fecal bacteria than a toilet seat, according to a study done by the University of Arizona. In most cases, its safer to make a salad on a toilet seat than it is to make one on a cutting board, Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist and professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, told Today. (BTW: Do NOT make a salad on your toilet seat.)

Whether yours is wood, plastic or glass, you need to give it more than a quick wipe down after each use. If you have a wooden one, you should disinfect it with bleach and treat it with mineral oil. However, if you have a plastic one, you can pour boiling water over it or even toss it in the dishwasher to sanitize it. To avoid any and all cross-contamination, you can always get different cutting boards for your produce and raw meats.

Fotouzy Flexible Plastic Colored Cutting Mats, Set of 7 This set of silicone cutting boards is color coded and features icons in the corners, designating each for a different type of food. There's one board for fruits, vegetables, cheese, fish, poultry, meat and more. More than 4,400 Amazon shoppers have raved about them and their food-specific marking. One five-star fan also loves their durability: "The reverse has sufficient texture to prevent movement of the mat while prepping, and the cutting surface shows negligible marking from EXTREMELY sharp Zwilling Pro cutlery. Very pleased with this purchase." $15 at Amazon

Knife Block

Okay, even as a self-proclaimed germaphobe, the presence of contaminants on a traditional knife block surprised me  but when you think about it, it makes sense. If you don't clean your knives well enough, food particles and bacteria can collect inside each slot in your block. To clean it, you can shake it upside down over the sink to remove any crumbs and let it sit in hot, soapy water for a while. Then, let it dry out completely before placing your blades back inside.

However, if that sounds like too much of a chore (especially since you'll want to do it regularly), get rid of your old-school block and replace it with an easy-to-clean flat, magnetic one.

Aomiesen Home Kitchen Magnetic Knife Block Holder Like the name suggests, there's a magnet embedded in this block that'll, keep your knives organized and in sight. Obviously, it's way easier to clean than a slotted block, and if you want to show off any fancy, expensive blades, you can display them right on your countertop. Nearly 7,000 Amazon shoppers have given it five out of five stars. One calls it a "must-have," saying "the strong enhanced magnets featured in this holder rack are a game changer. They securely hold my knives in place, providing easy access while ensuring safety. The knives remain in perfect condition, without any dulling or scratching." $40 at Amazon

Plastic Food Containers

A true essential for every home chef for storing leftovers, meal prepping and more. Unfortunately, they can be a secret sanctuary for bacteria and pathogens. This is especially true for containers with a rubber seal. It's important to clean them really well  put them in the dishwasher if possible  and let them completely dry before closing them and tossing them back into the cupboard them away.

If you have any containers that are stained or worse for wear, you should probably go ahead and replace them. Oh, and if you'd like to steer clear of any potential BPA exposure, consider tosssing the plastic and investing in glass ones.

M MCIRCO 30-Piece Glass Food Storage Containers These are dishwasher-, microwave-, freezer- and even oven-safe. The leak-proof lids snap to lock, a BPA-free silicone ring keeping it all airtight. However, the silicone rings are removable, so you can easily wash them  put them in the dishwasher or soak them in hot, soapy water. $50 at Amazon

Coffee Maker Filter

If you have a coffeemaker that filters water, like a Keurig, you probably don't replace the filter enough. Come on, when was the last time you remembered to do it? That's what we thought. Give your coffeemaker a good clean according to its instructions, soak the water reservoir in hot, soapy water and replace the filter ASAP.

PURELINE Keurig Filter Replacement, 12 Pack According to Keurig, you should replace your water filter every two months. Write it down in your calendar or set a reminder in your phone, and stock up on these. This 12-pack should last you nearly two years! Keep in mind, not only does the filter clean your water; it prevents particles from entering your machine and building up inside. $13 at Amazon

Things you should clean in your kitchen in 2024

Refrigerator

You keep all of your food in your refrigerator, so, yeah, you want to keep it clean. You can use a fragrance-free dish soap, bleach or baking soda to clean the drawers and shelves  follow these steps for ensuring you hit every nook and cranny.

Kitchen Sink

If you aren't already doing it, you should clean your kitchen sink daily. In fact, go a step further and clean it after every meal. Does that sound excessive? Well, try this factoid on for size: There's more E. coli in a kitchen sink than in a toilet after you flush it. The thing is, E. coli lives and grows in wet, moist environments like your sink, and bacteria feeds on the food left in there or shoved down the drain.

Dishwasher

You may not think to clean your dishwasher because soap essentially goes into it every single day. However, if you're noticing that your dishes are not getting as clean as they usually do or if the machine's interior smells, it's time for a serious cleaning. You can watch this video from Home Depot on how to remove the filter and the spray arms to give them the deepest clean. However, there are also tablets you can use to get rid of limescale and mineral buildup to keep your machine in tip-top shape. They'll get at hard-to-reach places like the tub, the internal hoses and the pump and valve.

Salt and Pepper Shakers

Just think about all the hands that touch these  everyone in your whole household, plus friends and family that come over for a meal. Our advice: Empty your shakers and give them a good soak in hot, soapy water, and use a brush to scrub off any residue on the insides. Important: Make sure they're completely dry before refilling.

Turbo Microfiber Turbo Microfiber Bottle Brush Cleaner Pack - Set of 5 You can use this set of brushes to clean your salt and pepper shakers, as well as reusable straws, water bottles (like your Stanley tumbler!) or hard to reach areas around the kitchen. The brushes themselves are dishwasher-friendly, so you can sanitize them when you're done using them. $7 at Amazon

Can Opener

When was the last time you cleaned your can opener? Never? Well, do it now. According to a study by the University of Rochester, you should really clean it after each use. The cutting wheel on them often touches the food inside the can, and if it doesn't get washed properly, it can accumulate bacteria like E.coli and salmonella.

Here's how: Use a brush to remove any food particles from the wheel and wash it with hot water and soap. To give it a deep clean and disinfecting, let it sit in a bleach-water solution, then rinse and dry it off to prevent rust.

AMAZE Amaze Ultra Concentrated Bleach Tablets, 32 Tablets Dissolve one of these in a gallon of hot water and scrub up your opener and any other kitchen items that need a good disinfecting. $8 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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, far left.

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.
One of the groups that helped shape a 2022 report issued by a special commission tasked with investigating structural racism in the Massachusetts prison system, Race Equity in Corrections Initiative, is bringing the issue Tuesday to Worcester.

The group will be hosting community leaders, legislators and the public at 5 p.m. at Belmont A.M.E. Zion Church, 55 Illinois St.

Community leaders invite residents to learn about corrections reform to eradicate structural racism Tuesday at Belmont A.M.E. Zion Church in Worcester.

Speakers will include LaToya Whiteside, senior attorney and director of the Race Equity in Corrections Initiative, and its community liaison, Mac Hudson; state Sen. Liz Miranda, D-Boston; and state Rep. Mary Keefe, D-Worcester. They will discuss legislation that would establish a special oversight body tasked with investigating and addressing structural racism in the states prisons.

"We're excited to bring legislators, advocates and directly impacted people together in Worcester to build grassroots support for new, groundbreaking legislation that fosters real transparency and accountability," Whiteside said in a written statement. "From reports by state commissions to countless conversations with incarcerated community members, it's abundantly clear that meaningful change is needed to address structural racism in corrections and beyond."

The meeting follows a hearing on the bill, and several others affecting incarcerated people, last week before the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security.

The Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association has been actively working with Senate leadership on this bill, and other key pieces of legislation impacting our Sheriffs Offices, according to a statement by the association Friday. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and will be providing testimony on a number of bills at the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security hearing on Tuesday.

The creation of the Special Legislative Commission on Structural Racism in Corrections Facilities in Massachusetts, one of 12 special bodies established to explore the issue throughout Massachusetts society, institutions and agencies, was a reaction to the 2020 murder of George Floyd by a Minnesota police officer. The permanent commissions are Status of African Americans, Status of Latinos and Latinas, Social Status of Black Men and Boys and Status of Persons with Disabilities.

Communities throughout the United States were prompted to look into the role of systemic racism in their organizations and institutions. Massachusetts also acted, crafting the 2020 Police Reform Bill and establishing eight special exploratory commissions like the one looking into the corrections department.

Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton, served as a co-chair of Special Legislative Commission on Structural Racism in Corrections Facilities in Massachusetts

After a year of reviewing the states correctional facilities, the commission found unfair treatment existed by race. The document revealed that racism in established policies and practices and within the systems culture produces and perpetuates unfair treatment that impacts incarcerated people by race, as well as gender identity, sexual orientations and immigration status.

Eldridge, who served as co-chairman of the commission, said in his 2022 summary of the 71-page report that racism impacted the population in four distinct but overlapping areas:

Racism in the institution itself, in its policies and procedures

In the culture of the institutions

In the interpersonal relationships within the populations and between staff and incarcerated persons

Structural racism in external systems, housing and employment also impacted the population

The commission made 10 major recommendations of tasks to be accomplished by state legislators, by the executive office and its administration and by the system itself.

Miranda and Rep. Russell Holmes, D-Boston, have filed companion bills to implement one of the recommendations: The establishment of an independent correctional oversight body to ferret out and address instances of structural racism.

The special body would be located in the Office of the Inspector General, the agency that prevents and detects fraud, waste and abuse of public funds and public property and promotes transparency and efficiency in government.

The inspector general is interested in working with the Legislature on the roles and responsibilities of the office that will help government work better, said Carrie Kimball, a spokeswoman for the office. She declined to comment on the specific legislation proposed by Miranda and Holmes.

The proposed office, Inclusion, Diversity, Anti-Racism and Equity Unit, would incorporate legislative and departmental voices, as well as impacted community members, formerly incarcerated people or their family members. Control, according to the proposed legislation, would be lodged in the hands of the communities directly impacted by issues of racism within the department of corrections.

Its power would include investigating day-to-day operations and conditions of corrections, records reviews and examinations and legislative reviews. The unit would devise and implement a new uniform racial data collection system designed to record age, race, ethnicity, language, sex, gender identity and sexual orientation of the incarcerated population. The date would not be aggregate but individual and unique to each person within the system.

The unit would have unlimited and unrestricted access to the system, as well as to facilities. Tasked with investigating grievances and complaints of disparate treatment, it would create a reporting network for use by incarcerated individuals.

The proposed legislation would allow the unit to recommend and help implement anti-racism standards for corrections operations, ensure compliance with statutes, regulations and policies. The unit could also impose fines and enact punitive measures for administrators and staff based on findings of noncompliance.

All corrections department records would be accessible to the unit and made available on demand by corrections officials.

The legislation also takes care to protect them against retaliation from officials, administrators or employees of the corrections system for disclosing information, alleged wrongdoing or testifying in an inquiry.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Mass. bill would create office on systemic racism in prisons
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP)  Memphis residents spent their fourth day boiling water for drinking, brushing their teeth and preparing food on Monday as repair crews worked to fix broken pipes in hopes of easing the stress caused by a week of subfreezing temperatures, snow and ice in this southern city.

The citys water company issued a boil water notice on Friday to the more than 600,000 people it serves because low pressure in the system and breaks in water mains could allow harmful bacteria to contaminate the water supply.

Its frustrating for us homeowners, especially old folks, to have to deal with the snow and the water problem, said 81-year-old William Wilkerson, who lost all water service between Thursday and Sunday.

Memphis was the largest, but not the only, water system in Tennessee to experience problems from the unusually cold weather that has caused dozens of deaths around the U.S. this month, many involving hypothermia or road accidents. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said on Sunday night that 28 other water systems were under boil water notices and 19 counties were reporting operational issues with their water utilities.

Meanwhile, the Tennessee Department of Health reported 34 weather-related fatalities across the state as of Monday.

Several days of below-freezing temperatures have also caused water problems for multiple cities around Arkansas, where freezing rain on Monday led to warnings of possible power outages as well.

In Tennessee, the several inches of snow and unusually low temperatures led the Tennessee Valley Authority to ask the 10 million people in its service area to conserve energy to avoid rolling blackouts. The utility saw its highest demand for electricity ever last week but the system remained stable.

Memphis, Light, Gas and Water CEO Doug McGowen told reporters Sunday that crews are making progress with repairs, and he expects most customers to have water service restored on Monday and Tuesday. They will still have to boil water, likely through Thursday, though.

Sarah Houston, executive director of Protect Our Aquifer, in Memphis, said she lost water service on Sunday night and still had no running water on Monday morning.

I had filled up pitchers and water bottles and have some backup supply just for drinking, she said. Everybodys going through it. Its just unfortunate.

While the majority-Black city is known more for its warm climate than freezing, icy weather, it has experienced winter storms in the past. But the storm last week was the fourth in past three years, showing that the city, like so many others, is feeling direct effects of climate change, Houston said.

The first thing to recognize is that, having snow and multi-day deep freezes every year, is not normal, she said.

Houston, known in Memphis as the citys water warrior, said that water infrastructure in the South is not built for heavy snow, large ice accumulations and days of subfreezing temperatures.

Our water lines are not buried beneath the frost line. Theyre not insulated. And, theyre old, she said. If we had building codes like up North, they bury the lines deeper. Everyones plumbing is in the center of the house. Everything is insulated."

She noted that Memphis Light, Gas and Water has poured at least $60 million into the water system since 2021 and said the situation would have been even worse without those improvements.

Earlier this year, the Environmental Defense Fund and Texas A&M University released the U.S. Climate Vulnerability Index. It found that Shelby County, which includes Memphis, is among the most vulnerable in the U.S. The measurements included food, water and waste management.

The Rev. Earle Fisher, a community activist and the pastor at Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church, said poorer neighborhoods have suffered years of infrastructure neglect.

Even though the snowstorm exacerbates some of these issues, many of these issues have also been faced if there is a severe windstorm, if there was a severe rainstorm, he said.

Fisher acknowledged severe weather can compound other problems poor people face. They may suffer if they lose workdays to road and business closures. If the cold weather makes them sick, they may not have access to health care. A lack of money and transportation could make it difficult to buy water or pick it up from a distribution center, he acknowledged.

In Tipton County, the fire department in Mason warned residents on Sunday to be prepared for a multiday water outage.

There is no current time table on how long it will be before water services will be fully restored to all customers, fire officials said in a Facebook post.

The recent winter storm was the fourth since 2021 to hit Memphis. Storms in February 2021 led to a week-long boil water advisory after water mains broke, wells failed, reservoirs froze, and motors at pumping stations overheated in a system with some parts dating to the 1930s.

An icy February 2022 storm spared the water system but led to more than 140,000 homes and businesses losing power in Tennessee. Some residents spent six days either staying with friends or family, in hotels, or huddled in their cold homes during the outage.

Ten months later, a December storm led to rolling blackouts and a long boil-water advisory in Memphis that also was caused by broken water mains in the city.

Memphis resident Pamela Wells had been without any water since Thursday morning when she noticed a trickle coming through on Sunday night.

We kept praying that it was a sign that water was on the way, she said. Family and friends have helped them over the past several days by delivering bottled water, she said, but she really missed things that she normally takes for granted like being able to wash her hands in the sink or take a shower.

She woke up Monday morning to find water pressure restored to about 40% of normal. Hopefully were on our way to full restoration of our water.

___

Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, and Travis Loller in Nashville, Tennessee, contributed to this report.
The U.S. military has ended an "exhaustive" 10-day search and rescue mission for two Navy SEALs who went missing on Jan. 11 in the waters of the Gulf of Aden and are now presumed deceased, according to a new statement from U.S. Central Command.

The military is conducting recovery operations for the service members, CENTCOM said Sunday night.

"We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example. Our prayers are with the SEALs' families, friends, the U.S. Navy, and the entire Special Operations community during this time," Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM's commander, said in the statement.

Military officials said that the U.S., Japan and Spain used air and naval resources and "searched more than 21,000 square miles" for the missing SEALs, scouring the gulf off the coast of Somalia -- to no avail.

"Out of respect for the families, no further information will be released at this time," CENTCOM said.

The two SEALs went into water in mid-January during a nighttime boarding mission to interdict a dhow suspected of carrying Iranian-made weapons for Houthi militants in Yemen, military officials have said.

Dhows are small fishing or cargo vessels that are sometimes used by Iran to smuggle weapons.

As a small Navy craft approached the dhow on Jan. 11, one of the SEALs fell into rough waters and, following protocol, a second SEAL dove into the water in a rescue attempt, according to officials.

The rest of the SEALs continued with the mission on the dhow and seized Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile parts and warheads similar to those being used by the Houthis in more than 30 attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, officials said.

The Houthis have said their attacks are in response to Israel's bombardment of Gaza as the Israelis target Hamas fighters as retaliation for Hamas' Oct. 7 terror attack.

MORE: 2 Navy SEALs missing off Somalia coast were on a nighttime boarding mission: US officials

PHOTO: On Jan. 12, 2024, an initial search of the dhow revealed suspicious material throughout the holds. (USCENTCOM)

For years, the U.S. Navy has intercepted dhows in the Gulf of Aden that are suspected of carrying Iranian-made weapons to the Houthis.

During these missions, boarding teams typically pull aside the dhows in small water craft to undertake a "flag verification" mission if the dhow is unflagged or has replaced its flag to mask its smuggling.

The seizure involving the SEALs was the first since the Houthis began their strikes, most of which have been repelled by U.S., French and British warships.

The SEALs were operating from the USS Lewis B Puller, an expeditionary sea base and converted freighter topped with landing decks for helicopters and capable of releasing small watercraft.

"In the wintertime, the sea state is typically 8-12 feet," said Eric Oehlerich, an ABC News contributor and retired SEAL commander. "The horizon is flat, so 8-12 feet is 8 feet above the flat horizon -- and then eight feet, it's like a 16 foot wave."

PHOTO: A dhow was identified, Jan. 10, 2024, and an assessment was made that the dhow was in the process of smuggling. (USCENTCOM)

According to Oehlerich, those high-water conditions increase the risk to nighttime ship boardings, which are carried out in pitch-black darkness.

He described it as one of the most difficult missions that a SEAL can undertake, requiring constant training.

"You have the risk of your boat capsizing in close proximity to larger vessels, you have to establish a solid ladder point, you have to climb a ladder at night over the open ocean between two ships -- they're smashing into each other -- and then get on board," he said.

"And then your problem starts with what you're going to do ... with whomever is on board that boat," he added.

MORE: US condemns Iran for missile strikes in Iraq and Syria

PHOTO: All material offloaded from the dhow was confirmed to be Advanced Conventional Weapons (ACW). (USCENTCOM)

The Jan. 11 seizure also marked the first time since November 2019 that the U.S. Navy has taken Iranian-made ballistic missile and cruise missile components believed to be headed for the Houthis.

The military said the 14 mariners aboard the dhow were taken off the vessel and are in U.S. custody, though their future status remains to be determined.

After they were taken off the dhow, the vessel was deemed unsafe and sunk by naval forces.

Missing Navy SEALs now presumed dead after going into the water on night mission originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The Martin Luther King Jr. School, an academic magnet that offers grades 7-12, will phase out its middle school grades by the 2027-28 school year.

The move, announced by Metro Nashville Public Schools last month, is part of the district's ongoing ReimaginED initiative.

Additionally, Head Magnet Middle School will shift from offering grades 5-8 to only grades 6-8 by the 2024-25 school year. One part of the ReimaginED initiative includes moving fifth graders  who have long been folded into the district's middle schools  back into elementary schools. The move is based on national best practices and years of research, MNPS told parents in a Dec. 13 email.

"This shift to a more traditional middle school model is part of our district's ongoing strategy to enhance educational pathways," the email said.

Martin Luther King Jr. Academic Magnet School graduates look on during their commencement ceremony at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena on Sunday, May 19, 2019.

Head Magnet serves as a pathway school to MLK, a sought-after and high-performing magnet school in the district. That means Head Magnet students who meet academic requirements to enroll at MLK are guaranteed a spot. In the 2025-26 school year, the district will rebrand the middle school as MLK at Head Magnet Middle.

While the pathway from Head Magnet to MLK will remain, the changes have sparked controversy among parents, teachers and other school leaders. Here's what to know about the new plan and the debate surrounding it.

What the change means for current, future students

Head Magnet will still serve as a pathway school. However, students won't move to MLK until ninth grade once the phase out plan is complete by the start of the 2027-28 school year.

Students currently enrolled at Head Magnet, along with those starting in the 2024-25 school year, who plan to apply for seventh or eighth grade at MLK will not be impacted by the change, according to MNPS.

MNPS families were sent an email on Dec. 13 explaining the plans for Head Magnet and MLK. District and school staff were made aware of the plan ahead of time.

Timeline for changes at MLK, Head

Elisa Norris, who oversees strategy and performance for the district, presented a timeline during a Jan. 9 meeting with the MNPS Board of Education. Here's how it breaks down:

Phase 1 / 2024-25 school year: Head becomes 6-8 with increased seats at all grade levels. MLK remains 7-12.

Phase 2 / 2025-26 school year: Head remains 6-8. MLK remains 7-12. Rebranding starts for MLK and Head Magnet Middle.

Phase 3 / 2026-27 school year: Head remains 6-8. MLK becomes 8-12.

Phase 4 / 2027-28 school year: Head remains 6-8. MLK becomes 9-12 with increased seats at all grade levels.

Metro Nashville Public Schools plans to phase out grades 7-8 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet School and grade 5 at Head Magnet Middle School over the next few years.

Why not just add middle school to MLK?

MNPS Director Adrienne Battle fielded questions from MNPS Board of Education members during the board's regular meeting on Dec. 12.

Board member Abigail Tylor, who represents District 9, asked if district leaders considered simply adding sixth grade to MLK instead of removing seventh and eighth grade.

Battle said the decision took years of study and recommendations on best practices into account, along with leveraging limited resources while maximizing capacity. She also said aligning Head Magnet with the rest of the district's Pre-K-5, 5-8 and 9-12 grade level models also made more sense.

Battle assured the board that current seventh and eighth grade teachers at MLK will be given preference on where they want to go as the phase out unfolds. She said she and other district leaders have made plans carefully and are mindful of mitigating the impact the change will have on students, staff and parents.

"Were going to take care of our people," she said.

MNPS Director Adrienne Battle speaks during a school board meeting on July 25, 2023.

An appeal to reconsider

Two MLK employees voiced concerns to Battle and the board during a regular Jan. 9 meeting.

Sarah Laos, who works as a student counselor at MLK, asked Battle and the board to reconsider phasing out seventh and eighth grade at her school. She said both grades have room for around 300 more students, meaning they could easily add sixth grade. She also pointed to the fact that the high school has not had a waitlist for over five years, while the seventh and eighth grade waitlist at MLK had 76 students as of August.

"There's clearly a demand for middle school academic magnet seats that MLK is unable to accommodate," Laos said.

Michael Bartus, who teaches German at MLK and chairs its world language program, said the middle school is an integral part of MLK. The school currently offers French, German, Latin, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish courses as early as seventh grade.

A flag flies at half staff outside Martin Luther King Jr. Academic Magnet School on April 3, 2023.

He was concerned over the lack of a plan to continue those offerings once seventh and eighth grade phased out at MLK. Aside from Spanish, those language offerings would not begin until students reach MLK in ninth grade.

"Research strongly supports the earlier a student begins their studies, the more likely they are to succeed in developing intermediate and advanced proficiency in the language of their choice," Bartus said. "Were the middle school to be dissolved, there is no question in my mind that this would negatively impact the language courses available to our students."

In its Dec. 13 email to parents, MNPS said it was dedicated to keeping rigorous and advanced academic offerings between both Head Magnet and MLK.

We want to definitely not lose anything thats working for our students and our staff and our families," Battle said in the Dec. 12 meeting.

The district will also offer multiple opportunities for families, staff and other stakeholders to discuss academic programming and student experiences throughout the phase-in process. More information on the ReimaginED initiative can be found at mnps.org/learn/supporting_our_students.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville schools: MLK Jr. Magnet to phase out grades 7-8 by 2027
Editors Note: A version of this story appears in CNNs Meanwhile in the Middle East newsletter, a three-times-a-week look inside the regions biggest stories. Sign up here.

Israel has offered a two-month ceasefire to Hamas as part of a prospective hostage deal, Axios reported Monday, citing two unnamed Israeli officials.

It would be the longest period of ceasefire that Israel has offered Hamas since the start of the war, wrote Axios reporter Barak Ravid, who is also a CNN analyst.

The proposal comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas call for an end to the Gaza war in exchange for the release of hostages held there, as he faces increasing public pressure to bring the captives home.

In order to release the remaining hostages, Netanyahu said Hamas was demanding an end to the war, the release of Palestinian prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. I work on this around the clock. But to be clear: I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas, he said in a statement on Sunday, adding that agreeing to the terms goes against Israels security.

If we agree to this, our soldiers fell in vain. If we agree to this, we will not be able to guarantee the security of our citizens, the Prime Minister said.

Netanyahu has since told families of the remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza that Israel has an initiative to secure the release of those abducted  but that there is no real proposal from Hamas that would advance their freedom, according to the prime ministers office.

According to the Axios report, Israels latest proposal envisions the release of all remaining hostages and hostage bodies in multiple phases, in exchange for Palestinian detainees imprisoned in Israel.

It would also see Israel move its forces out of main population centers and allow a gradual return of Palestinian civilians to Gaza city and the northern Gaza strip.

Out of the 253 hostages Israel says Hamas seized on October 7, Israel believes that 132 are still in Gaza, of whom 104 are thought to be alive.

Relatives and supporters of the Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas attend a protest calling for their release outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence, in Jerusalem on Sunday. - Ohad Zwigenberg/AP

The Wall Street Journal report has reported that the US, Egypt and Qatar want Israel to join a new phase of talks with Hamas that would start with the release of hostages and lead to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

These developments come amid deepening divisions within Israels war cabinet about whether to prioritize bringing hostages home over defeating Hamas, and as thousands protested over the weekend in Tel Aviv against Netanyahus handling of the war.

War cabinet minister Gadi Eisenkot last week suggested that the key war aim of defeating Hamas is unrealistic and called for elections within months. Eisenkot also said the government had failed to achieve what he says should be its highest priority: securing the release of the hostages.

You will not sit here while they die there

Netanyahu is under mounting pressure from the Israeli public to secure the release of captives in Gaza. On Monday, more than a dozen people, including families of the hostages, forced their way into a meeting held by the Israeli parliaments finance committee. The protesters held placards that read: You will not sit here while they die there.

Video of the scene showed security officers trying to remove the protesters amid shouting and jostling.

It cant go on like this. Youd better know. It cant go on like this. You will not sit here while our children die there, shouted one protester. There were no reports of arrests inside the parliament, known as the Knesset.

Israeli police said that in a separate demonstration dozens of protesters had blocked the entrance to the Knesset, violating public order. That protest called for an immediate election, and included some of the families of those killed on October 7.

After some refused to leave, a police officer announced a dispersal order, according to an Israeli police statement.

A poll released on Monday by CNNs Israeli affiliate Channel 13 found that 35% of Israelis would support a deal involving the release of all hostages from Gaza in exchange for stopping the war and freeing all Hamas detainees in Israel. Nearly half (46%) said they would oppose such a deal.

A slim majority (53%) said Netanyahus personal interests were the main consideration driving his conduct of the war and a third (33%) said the national interest was his main consideration.

It has been more than three months since Israel launched its war against Hamas, which came in response to the groups brutal October 7 attack that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli authorities.

Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza on Sunday surpassed 25,000, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the enclave.

CNN cannot independently verify the figures.

Israeli soldiers move on armored personnel carriers near the Israeli-Gaza border as smoke rises to the sky in Gaza, seen from southern Israel on Sunday. - Leo Correa/AP

Netanyahu reiterated his rejection of future Palestinian sovereignty over the occupied territories on Saturday after talks with US President Joe Biden about Gazas future. The White House has been pushing Israel to recognize the need for the Palestinians to establish an independent state in areas Israel captured in the 1967 war.

I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state, Netanyahu said in a post Saturday on X.

The Prime Ministers public rejection of a Palestinian state has placed him at odds with Israels staunchest ally, which has long advocated for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Several European foreign ministers have also joined the chorus of criticism directed at Netanyahu over Israels opposition to a two-state solution. Josep Borrell, the European Unions foreign policy chief said on Monday that Israels opposition to a two-state solution is unacceptable and Israel cannot expect countries to drop the issue.

This story has been updated.

CNNs Vasco Cotovio, Niamh Kennedy and Ibrahim Dahman contributed to this report.

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Search-and-rescue teams brought 23 skiers and snowboarders who got lost in the Vermont backcountry to safety Saturday amid single-digit temperatures, authorities said.

Officials were notified at 2:30 p.m. Saturday of seven to nine lost skiers and snowboarders, police in Killington, a town about 40 miles southwest of Montpelier, said in a news release.

Killington police and Vermont State Police Search and Rescue determined 21 people were actually missing in the backcountry  six children among them, police said.

Search-and-rescue crews "hiked, snowshoed and skinned" in single-digit temperatures for about 5 miles to bring the group of 21 skiers and snowboarders to safety.

After their rescue, the skiers and snowboarders warmed up from the cold in the rescue team vehicles as they waited for rides home.

Then, a call came in for two more lost skiers, prompting a crew of Killington Search and Rescue team members to head back out to the woods, police said. The team found the final two skiers and walked them to safety around 7:30 p.m.

Killington Fire/Rescue, Killington Resort Ski Patrol, Rescue Inc. and State PSAP/Dispatch also helped with large rescue mission.

A special thanks should be given to all the volunteers who responded and worked this call, police said on Facebook.

Hours before the incident, police posted a notice on social media reminding people to stay inbounds.

"With todays temperatures, getting lost or injured in the backcountry could become tragic," police said.
By Robert Neff

There is no doubt that for many Korean people in the 19th and early 20th centuries, life was difficult and people did what they could to survive. The idea of eating dogs may have been unthinkable for many of the self-described civilized Westerners, but it wasnt unheard of. Explorers, especially at the poles, ate dogs. In 1912, Roald Amundsen, the Norwegian explorer, ate many of his dogs during his South Pole expedition and found it appealing, claiming it is anything but a real hardship to eat dog flesh.

In Korea's case, I think it wasnt so much the dog meat that bothered Westerners, but the way in which the dog (and other animals) was killed. According to one source from the early 1890s:

[In Korea], goats are drowned by pulling them back and forth in a narrow stream. This is said to take away much of the strong, or rank taste which the flesh retains if the animal is killed in the ordinary way.

Isabella Bird Bishop, an English travel-writer whose pen was truly mightier than the sword, vividly described one of many Korean butcher shops she encountered during her visits in the 1890s:

The smells were fearful, the dirt abominable, and the quantity of wretched dogs and of pieces of bleeding meat blackening in the sun perfectly sickening. The aspect of meat, produced by the mode of killing it, has made foreigners entirely dependent on the Japanese butchers in Seoul and elsewhere. The Koreans cut the throat of the animal and insert a peg in the opening. Then the butcher takes a hatchet and beats the animal on the rump until it dies. The process takes about an hour, and the beast suffers agonies of terror and pain before it loses consciousness. Very little blood is lost during the operation; the beef is full of it, and its heavier weight in consequence is to the advantage of the vendor.

In January 1897, The Independent, a newspaper published in Seoul, reported:

The Governor of Seoul ordered the butchers of the city to change the method of killing beef and adopt the foreign style. But the butchers still hesitate in obeying the order. However, the Governor will do his best to persuade them to adopt the better method within a few months.

Eventually there were changes made, but not for the dogs.

In her book, With Tommy Tompkins in Korea, Lillias Underwood, a missionary, certainly tugged on her readers emotions when she described Korean puppies as being the cunningest and most enticing little furry balls ever seen. But then she added:

And now I must divulge a sad fact. Most of the dogs are bred and kept only to be eaten. A certain season in the fall is the usual time set for slaughter, and then there is a tragedy in every neighbourhood, and an awful fate for thousands of poor dogs. They are dragged away by the dog butcher, screaming and resisting, with terror in their eyes, and  well, let us draw a veil.

She may have drawn the veil but others didnt.

In early August 1884, Ensign Foulk recorded, The other morning I saw a man lasso and hang an unsuspecting dog in the street in a very expert manner. In 1892, The Korean Repository (a magazine published in Seoul), informed its readers: Dogs are killed by slipping a noose over the head and then twirling them till they are unconscious after which they are bled. And, in 1894, a missionary recorded in her journal, Just heard a poor dog howling which quickly ended forever. Some Korean will have a feast now.

Perhaps the most vivid and unsettling account comes from 1908:

Frequently one sees a [Korean] foraging for the evening meal. The method is simple, though unpleasant. He is armed with a short pole, to the end of which is attached a noose. This he throws over the head of the nearest dog, and then proceeds to screw the pole round till the noose tightens, and slowly throttles the dog, who is meanwhile prevented from getting to close quarters with its butcher by thrusts of the pole.

Not all dogs were killed for food or medicine  many were killed out of fear and retribution. Rabies was a real concern, and newspapers and magazines published in Korea are sprinkled with accounts of people attacked by rabid dogs and cats  a member of the British Legation in Seoul died from a rabid cats bite. Rabid dogs even became tools for diplomatic intrigue. In 1901, the Russian minister to Korea suddenly went to Japan with two members of his staff for treatment, because they had been bitten by the ministers little pet dog which died of rabies. Horace Allen, the American minister to Korea, expressed some disbelief in the story but also acknowledged  at least to his sons  Dogs are very dangerous pets.

Lillias Underwood also wrote about the incident:

Many mad dogs run the streets biting men and animals; and many dogs not really so, are doubtless chased to madness by alarmed crowds and stoned to death. Even while these lines are written, four Europeans, and several Koreans, were bitten by rabid dogs during one week. Muzzles although used for cattle and horses are unknown for dogs, pounds and licenses unheard of, and the only check therefore to the dog nuisance is the slaughter I have referred to.

Newspaper accounts, up until the early 1910s, reported local authorities going out and shooting stray dogs in an effort to curb the spread of rabies. The only way to protect dogs was to license them  but even this ran into opposition because some people believed it was another attempt by the government to raise money without raising taxes.

Dogs were also alleged to ruin mens lives. Oftentimes, young boys would answer the call of nature in the street and a friendly dog would assist them in tidying up  no need for toilet paper. However, there are accounts of overzealous dogs emasculating their young masters with their sharp teeth.

Even in dreams, dogs could be dangerous to the superstitious. If you dream of pigs, you will become rich, dream of a pine tree and become a high government official, have visions of grain in your hand and enjoy good fortune, but if a dog bites you in your dream, you will lose all of your money.

Considering dog meat was the subject of so many Westerners accounts of Korea, it is surprising that the earliest picture I could find was taken by Dr. Dezso Bozoky  a physician aboard the Austro-Hungarian warship SMS Kaiser Franz Josef I when it visited Korea in 1908. Titled dog slaughterhouse, his graphic hand-colored photograph shows a full carcass of a half-skinned dog and lumps of meat being sold in Jemulpo (modern Incheon).

It probably doesnt need to be said, but when Seoul History Museum held its exhibit of Bozokys photographs in 2019, the organizers chose not to include that one. I will also refrain from using it as I think it is just too graphic. Surprisingly, considering dogs were such a ubiquitous part of Korean society, there are very few images I could find with Korean canines and so I have had to resort to using images of foreigners and their dogs.

While many Americans were shocked by the method in which Korean dogs were slaughtered, the United States didnt exactly have clean hands. As Lillias Underwood alluded to in her book, in the United States, unwanted puppies were sometimes tied up in a burlap bag and then tossed into the river to cruelly drown. However, in Korea, puppies are rarely drowned or killed as they are too young to eat, and to destroy them would be wasting so much food, so dogs abound to a far greater extent than cleanliness, comfort or safety would allow.

I wish to express my appreciation to Dr. Mozes Csoma, the former ambassador of Hungary to Korea, for providing me with a copy of his book (filled with Bozokys photographs), Justine Tweed for allowing me to use one of her images and Diane Nars and Suk JiHoon for their invaluable assistance.

Robert Neff has authored and co-authored several books, including Letters from Joseon, Korea Through Western Eyes and Brief Encounters.
By Valentine Hilaire and Cassandra Garrison

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Senior Mexican, U.S. and Guatemalan officials will meet as soon as possible for talks on migration, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said on Monday as she set out plans aimed at reducing pressures on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Speaking after meeting U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week in Washington, Barcena said the two sides wanted to allow asylum-seekers to sign up further south for a U.S. government app used for scheduling appointments.

The step planned for the app known as CBP One aims to reduce a build-up of people on Mexico's northern border, Barcena said at a government press conference.

The minister said Mexican and U.S. officials reached 10 important agreements during their meetings.

Standardizing migration figures, combating human smuggling networks and a plan to visit Panama's perilous Darien Gap were among the Mexico-U.S. agreements set out by Barcena.

The meeting resulted in a framework comprising three main points, said Ken Salazar, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico.

These were tackling the root causes of migration, creating legal routes for migrants to the United States, and applying the law for those who break the rules, he told reporters.

The Darien Gap, a treacherous jungle between Colombia and Panama, saw a record 520,000 migrant crossings last year. Barcena said migrations start there, and she will meet with regional authorities to curb the trend.

She also said an investigation will be held into weapons from the U.S. Army entering Mexico, following alerts sent to the U.S. by local officials.

Reducing the flow of weapons from the U.S. to Mexico was a major priority for the Biden administration, Salazar said. A U.S. delegation to Mexico in early February will focus talks on preventing U.S. guns reaching Mexico, he added.

"It's part of what needs to be addressed in a plan," Salazar said at a press conference. "We have a new law in the United States that makes it a serious crime for people who sell and transport arms from the U.S. to Mexico and other countries."

Guatemala earlier this month swore in its new President Bernardo Arevalo, who said both countries will need to work to stem the flow of people from Central America.

(Reporting by Valentine Hilaire and Cassandra Garrison; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
SEABROOK, N.H.  Since the Iowa caucuses, Nikki Haley had tried to frame the Republican presidential race as one-on-one combat between her and Donald Trump.

On Sunday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis made it official for Haley, who appeared noticeably energized as she delivered the news of his exit at a campaign stop  even though the question of just how much it will help her looms over the shrinking primary campaign.

"Boy, are things changing fast," Haley, the former U.N. ambassador, said at Browns Lobster Pound.

"We just heard that Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the race," she continued as huge applause erupted from restaurant-goers and volunteers. "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 added later, "May the best woman win."

Inside the Haley campaign, theres a sense of energy over the news of DeSantis' dropping out, though officials there dont think it will make much of a difference when it comes to the numbers, pointing to public surveys showing DeSantis in the single digits in both South Carolina and New Hampshire. In that sense, they believe thats why it was a two-person race before DeSantis dropped out.

"This is a boost," said a person familiar with the campaigns thinking, arguing that it proves Haley is an outsider.

Regardless of DeSantis' endorsement of Trump, the Haley campaign believes his voters will be divided up between her and the former president. Whats more, they see it as a clarion call to voters who are unenthusiastic about a Trump-vs.-Joe Biden rematch that its time to get behind Haley, the former governor of South Carolina.

Rick Wiley, a Haley adviser, tweeted, "The utter humiliation," as news of DeSantis stepping aside broke.

Other advisers never entertained the possibility that DeSantis would endorse Haley. Unlike the sting of the endorsement of Trump by Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, this moment carried far less weight and sense of betrayal.

New Hampshire has so far been the early state that is most favorable to Haleys candidacy, but Trump still holds double-digit leads in most recent surveys of the GOP primary. While she leads among independent voters who are allowed to participate in the states open primary, the polls show Trump with a wider lead among registered Republicans, giving him the overall advantage.

DeSantis, meanwhile, has hardly registered in the most recent New Hampshire polls, consistently showing up in the mid-single digits. The sample sizes were small, but DeSantis supporters were more likely to pick Trump than Haley as their second choices in both the most recent University of New Hampshire/CNN poll and Suffolk Universitys tracking poll with The Boston Globe and NBC Boston.

Still, Haley supporters see DeSantis' leaving the race as a sign of her strengthening candidacy.

South Carolina state Rep. Chris Wooten, a Haley supporter, said he believes DeSantis "realized that he couldnt beat her."

"It is such a boost for Nikki," he added. "She predicted this two weeks ago, and she has an amazing opportunity now with all the distractors out of the race."

South Carolina state Sen. Tom Davis, another Haley backer, said the new one-on-one contest will better allow Haley to contrast herself with Trump, adding that South Carolinas primary will now serve as a "referendum" on what the Republican Party will be going forward.

"Does the party want to look forward and address issues that desperately need solving  decreasing the debt and deficits, making Social Security solvent, fixing a porous southern border? Those are the things Nikki Haley focuses on," Davis said. "Or does it want to be a party that looks backward and settles scores for perceived past grievances, one that seeks 'retribution'? Those are the things Donald Trump emphasizes."

But even as the development gave Haley a bounce in her step heading into Tuesdays primary, some New Hampshire Republicans and other political observers offered a bleak forecast.

"I really think Haleys only chance is if the undeclared independents show up in droves on Tuesday. If they dont, shes going to get killed," said Sean Van Anglen, a New Hampshire Republican who opposes Trump and said he will most likely vote for Haley. "Thats really her only hope. If she loses New Hampshire, its done. Unfortunately, it seems like shes going to lose."

A Trump-aligned operative had a harsh assessment of what DeSantis' exit would  or rather, wouldn't  mean for Haley.

Shes going to lose, this person said. By a lot.

Terry Sullivan, Sen. Marco Rubios presidential campaign manager in 2016, said DeSantis departure makes little difference in how the primary campaign will play out.

"Republican primary is over," he said. "It has been for a while. Ron DeSantis now just figured it out. I assume it will be only a matter of days before Nikki Haley does, too. She wont even make it to South Carolina."
An American Airlines flight from Texas to North Carolina was diverted Sunday afternoon after an oven fire was reported on board.

Flight 885 diverted to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston due to the mechanical issue on board, caused by the oven in the forward galley, the airline said in a statement.

No one was injured in the incident aboard the Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

The flight had taken off from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport just before 2 p.m. local time and arrived in Houston just after 3 p.m., according to FlightAware data.

The aircraft landed safely and without incident, and taxied to the gate under its own power. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and appreciate our team members for their professionalism, American Airlines said.

A maintenance team in Houston evaluated the aircraft after landing.

Airport operations and the Houston Fire Department also responded to the aircraft on a report of a fire in an oven in the aircrafts galley, according to the Houston Airport System.

After approximately 30 minutes, the alert was terminated, and the aircraft was declared fire-safe, an airport system spokesperson said.

Customers departed Houston just before 11 p.m. local time and landed in Charlotte shortly before 2 a.m. local time.

Boeing, an airplane manufacturing giant, has been the center of scrutiny recently after the door plug of a Boeing 737 Max 9 plane operated by Alaska Airlines blew out in midair on Jan. 5, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to ground the model operating in U.S. territory.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines inspections of 737 Max 9 planes in the wake of the Jan. 5 accident found some aircraft with door plugs that contained bolts that were not tightened to specified torque levels.

CORRECTION (Jan. 22, 2024, 9:46 a.m. ET): A previous version of this article and a headline misstated the model of the plane that was diverted. It was a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, not a Boeing 747-800.
By Steven Scheer

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -A group of relatives of Israelis held hostage by Palestinian gunmen in Gaza stormed a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem on Monday, demanding that the lawmakers do more to try to free their loved ones.

The action by about 20 people signalled growing domestic dissent in the fourth month of the Gaza war against Hamas.

One woman held up pictures of three family members who were among the 253 people seized in the cross-border Hamas rampage of Oct. 7 that triggered the worst fighting in decades.

Some 130 remain in captivity after others were brought home in a November truce.

"Just one I'd like to get back alive, one out of three!" the woman protester cried after pushing into the Knesset Finance Committee discussion.

Other protesters held up signs reading: "You will not sit here while they die there."

"Release them now, now, now!" they chanted.

U.S., Qatari and Egyptian efforts to mediate another release seem far from reconciling Israel's drive to destroy Hamas and Hamas' demand that Israel withdraw and free all of the thousands of Palestinians - including senior militants - from its prisons.

The fate of the hostages - 27 of whom Israel says have died in Gaza - has riveted the country. But relatives fear that war fatigue could soften that focus. Demonstrations that initially promoted national unity have become more aggressive.

Families and supporters have also started camping outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coastal home as well as the Knesset building.

"We will not leave him until the hostages are back," said Eli Stivi, whose son Idan is being held in Gaza.

Regular weekend rallies demanding the hostages be released have in recent weeks been reinforced by demonstrations calling for an election that might topple the hard-right government.

Anti-government protests that shook the nation in 2023 ceased after the Hamas Oct. 7 attack. Political rifts were set aside as Israelis rallied behind the military and the families of those killed or taken hostage.

But with the devastating war in Gaza in its fourth month and opinion polls showing lagging support for Netanyahu, calls for leadership changes are growing stronger.

On Saturday night, thousands protested in Tel Aviv, Haifa and Jerusalem, calling for an election. In Tel Aviv, some briefly blocked a highway.

In the Knesset on Monday, parliamentary ushers, often quick to eject hecklers or protesters, initially tried to block the families but then stood by during the ruckus in the Finance Committee. One lawmaker covered her face with her hands.

Panel chairman Moshe Gafni, head of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish party in Netanyahu's coalition, stood up, called a halt to the economic briefing under way and sought to calm the protester.

"Redeeming captives is the most important precept in Judaism, especially in this case, where there is an urgency to preserving life," he said, but added: "Quitting the coalition would not achieve anything."

On Monday, Netanyahu told hostage families that Hamas has made no solid offer that would see their loved ones freed, a day after he 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.

"There is no real proposal by Hamas. It's not true. I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you," Netanyahu's office quoted him as telling the group.

Outside Netanyahu's house in Jerusalem - on a street called Azza, Hebrew for Gaza - The Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum have set up a vigil calling for a swap deal to be advanced.

"If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public," it said in a statement.

(Writing by Dan Williams, Steven Scheer and Maayan Lubell, Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Photograph: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images

The Republican South Carolina congresswoman Nancy Mace faced widespread accusations of hypocrisy after she endorsed Donald Trump  the presidential candidate she previously said she held accountable for the January 6 attack on Congress.

On Monday, Mace announced her endorsement, a day before the New Hampshire primary, in which Trump enjoys comfortable polling leads over the former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, his only remaining opponent.

I dont see eye to eye perfectly with any candidate, Mace said. And until now Ive stayed out of it. But the time has come to unite behind our nominee.

Saying its been a complete shit show since [Trump] left the White House, the congresswoman said the US needs to reverse all the damage Joe Biden has done. Trump, she said, would be better on the economy, immigration and national security.

Donald Trumps record in his first term should tell every American how vital it is he be returned to office, Mace said.

Related: Trump holds wide lead over Nikki Haley in New Hampshire, polls show

Good Lord, said Adam Kinzinger, an Illinois Republican who sat on the House January 6 committee then quit Congress over his opposition to Trump. Nancy Mace is just the worst.

At present, Trump faces 91 criminal charges (17 for election subversion), attempts to keep him off the ballot for inciting an insurrection and assorted civil trials. Still, he has dominated the Republican primary, winning comfortably in Iowa last week.

Observers were quick to point to what Mace made of Trump at the end of that term, in the aftermath of January 6.

On that day, supporters Trump told to fight like hell to block certification of his defeat by Biden attacked Congress, seeking lawmakers to capture and possibly kill in a riot now linked to nine deaths, more than 1,200 arrests and hundreds of convictions.

Everything that hes worked for  all of that, his entire legacy, was wiped out yesterday, Mace told CNN on 7 January 2021. Weve got to start over.

On 11 January, Mace said: We have to hold the president accountable for what happened. The rhetoric leading up to this vote, the lies that were told to the American people  this is what happens, rhetoric has real consequences. And people died.

Trump was impeached a second time for inciting the Capitol attack.

On 13 January, Mace said on the House floor she would vote against impeachment but added: I believe we need to hold the president accountable. I hold him accountable for the events that transpired for the attack on our Capitol last Wednesday.

While 10 House Republicans voted to impeach Trump, he was acquitted at his Senate trial when enough members of his party stayed loyal.

Trump turned against Mace, endorsing a primary rival in her district in South Carolina. Mace fought off the challenge  with campaign help from Haley.

Also on Monday, Steve Benen, an MSNBC producer, said: Remember when Trump called Nancy Mace absolutely terrible and tried to end her career? And when Nikki Haley scrambled to rescue her? A lot can happen in 18 months.

Mace is not the only senior South Carolina Republican to desert the former governor: the US senator Tim Scott, who Haley appointed in 2012, endorsed Trump on Friday.

Jose Pagliery, a politics reporter for the Daily Beast, pointed to another widely remarked irony in Maces decision to endorse Trump this week, writing: Rape survivor Nancy Mace just endorsed Donald Trump in the middle of his second rape trial.

In April last year, on CBSs Face the Nation, Mace discussed both her work to improve the processing of rape kits by law enforcement and her support for exceptions for victims of rape or incest in abortion bans passed in Republican states.

She also said: I am a victim of rape, I was raped by a classmate at the age of 16. I am very wary and the devil is always in the details, but weve got to show more care and concern and compassion for women whove been raped.

In August, a New York judge dismissed a counterclaim by Trump in a defamation suit brought by the writer E Jean Carroll over her claim that Trump sexually assaulted her in a department store changing room in the 1990s.

Explaining why the jury decided Trump sexually abused Carroll but did not endorse Carrolls claim that he raped her, Lewis A Kaplan discussed the difference, under New York law, between forcible penetration with the penis or with fingers.

Related: Judge says E Jean Carroll allegation Trump raped her is substantially true in court dismissal

The jury said Trump did the latter to Carroll. Kaplan, however, wrote: Mr Trump did in fact rape Ms Carroll as that term is commonly used and understood in contexts outside of the New York penal law.

The case has now reached a second trial, though a hearing scheduled for Monday was postponed due to juror illness.

A representative for Mace did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Speaking to Fox News, Mace said Haley had been a great governor but voters in her South Carolina district were overwhelmingly with Donald Trump.

People want the primary to be over, Mace said, pointing to an eventuality most pundits expect sooner rather than later, given Trumps leads over Haley in New Hampshire, South Carolina (the third state to vote) and elsewhere.

Mace also said that for voters in her district, womens issues including abortion were gonna be really important in the 2024 cycle.
One landlord raised rent from $875 to $1,800 across several apartment buildings, forcing all but three families to move out.

Another doubled a family's rent over the course of three years  at the same time that their child developed lead poisoning.

Those are just two of the examples that come to mind for Shana Crandell, a tenant organizer with Reclaim Rhode Island, when she says that rents have "have reached crisis levels, not just in Providence but across the state."

And what she's witnessed anecdotally is also backed by data: One Zillow study found that, last year, Providence saw the highest jump in rent prices of any city in the country. The typical rent for the area rose to $2,074, a 7.5% increase over the previous year, the company said.

In fact, there's only one town in the state where a two-bedroom apartment is considered affordable on the state's median income for renters, according to HousingWorks RI's 2023 factbook. (It's Burrillville.)

Shana Crandell of Reclaim RI talks about the AG's office making the announcement about action against against Pioneer investments as tenants rally at the RI State House on June 6, 2023.

To activists, all this underscores the glaring, immediate need for rent control.

"The well-being of Rhode Island households depends on rent control," Crandell said. "Families are getting evicted, displaced, becoming homeless, or forgoing basic needs to pay rent to slumlords that they cannot afford."

Numerous cities across the country are considering instituting policies that place limits on how much a landlord can increase rent from year to year, and advocates here are hopeful that Providence's progressive City Council will be the first in Rhode Island to do so. State lawmakers are also proposing legislation to cap rent increases statewide, though that faces tougher odds.

Notably, while the majority of states have laws preempting cities from enacting rent control ordinances, Rhode Island does not.

We're one of only 11 states that lacks a preemption law, but also lacks any form of rent control. (By contrast, neighboring Massachusetts has a preemption law, so the push to adopt rent control in Boston faces steep obstacles.)

What's being proposed for Providence, and the rest of RI

Approximately 200 municipalities in the country have some form of rent regulation in place, according to a 2021 study by the University of Minnesota's Center for Urban and Regional Affairs. Oregon and California also have statewide rent caps.

Although these kinds of policies are commonly referred to as "rent control," proponents tend to prefer the term "rent stabilization." Historically, rent control policies dictated the specific dollar amount that landlords could charge for rent, which isn't an approach that anyone is trying to bring back.

Terri Wright, tenant and homeowner association community organizer for Direct Action for Rights & Equality, helps lead a protest up Gaspee Street to the State House in 2022.

Instead, advocates want limits on the percentage by which landlords can increase their tenants' rent from year to year.

On the state level, Sen. Tiara Mack, D-Providence, has repeatedly proposed legislation that would cap rent increases for existing tenants at 4% a year. She plans to reintroduce similar bills this year.

While most people's salaries only increase by 1% or 2% a year on average, some tenants are seeing their rent costs go up by 50% or 100%, she said.

Meanwhile, Direct Action For Rights And Equality (DARE) has also been working with attorneys and studying policies from around the country, and recently published a detailed, 20-page draft of a proposed citywide rent control ordinance for Providence.

Under the group's proposal, annual increases in base rent could not exceed 4%, or 75% of the increase in the consumer price index over the past year  whichever is lower. A Residential Rent Board would publish the maximum allowable increase on an annual basis.

Landlords could only increase the rent once each calendar year, regardless of whether tenants turn over, and they would need to have good cause for evictions. Apartments constructed after Jan. 1, 2025, would automatically be exempt.

The policy would allow landlords to pass along the costs of utilities and capital improvements to tenants, as long as the total increase in rent does not exceed 7%. The rent board would have the discretion, "in limited circumstances and in the interests of equity," to make exceptions.

"This would level out the playing field," said Kinverly Dicupe, the organizer for DARE's Tenant and Homeowner Association. "This profiteering that's going on is going to be slowed down."

DARE's proposal is backed by other groups that advocate for tenants' rights, including Reclaim Rhode Island and Providence Organization of Workers and Renters (POWR), Dicupe said. They plan to officially launch the campaign with a rally at City Hall on Thursday, Jan. 25, at 5 p.m.

Members of Pioneer Tenants United were joined by state legislators, labor unions and community organizations to speak out against living conditions under landlord Pioneer Investments in 2023.

"I think theres a lot of good pieces that are in that proposal," said Providence City Council President Rachel Miller, who characterized it as a good starting point for a larger discussion about what rent stabilization could look like.

Miller, a renter herself, is broadly supportive of the idea of instituting rent control. More than 60% of Providence residents are renters, she pointed out, and evictions and homelessness have increased dramatically.

Hardly a day goes by that she doesn't hear from constituents or see social media posts "about last-minute and very high rent increases," she said.

Miller said she expects to see the City Council introduce a rental stabilization ordinance this year, but they're still in the "early stages" of discussion about what that would look like, and they will be looking to hear from developers and landlords as well as housing advocates.

More: Providence's housing market is 'cutthroat.' Even city councilors are caught in the middle.

Breaking down the debate over rent control

The argument for rent control is fairly straightforward: It protects tenants from dramatic, unexpected rent hikes that would either place them in a precarious financial position or force them to move. And, unlike other affordable-housing measures, it doesn't require millions of dollars in government investment.

The goal, Providence CIty Councilman Miguel Sanchez said, is to "protect people who have lived here and called Providence home for their whole lives."

But instituting rent control won't change the fact that there aren't enough affordable apartments to go around in the first place.

Recognizing that, advocates say there also needs to be more construction of affordable housing and public housing. But it takes time for new housing to be built, and in the meantime, rent stabilization can offer tenants some immediate relief.

"I think its one tool in the toolbox," Miller said.

More: Developer proposes 59 units in Federal Hill. Here's where and what they look like.

Landlords argue that it's unfair to cap rents when their expenses, such as taxes and utilities, continue to rise. In testimony submitted in opposition to Mack's bill last year, the Rhode Island Association of Realtors argued that rent stabilization would "only add pain to Rhode Island's housing crisis," because landlords would simply take their properties off the market.

"I register that as, like, a threat," Dicupe said. "And it's just like, 'OK, close up shop.' Maybe it'll make some of these homes cheaper if you leave the damn state. That's the way I view it."

Opponents also contend that limiting rent increases prevents landlords from investing in building maintenance, which means that tenants end up living in substandard conditions. But as it stands, Mack said, landlords are often raising rents without making an improvements to their buildings.

"I've been in my apartment for seven years, and my rent increased by over 25% just this year," she said. "My roof has not been replaced, my walls have not been repainted, my floors have not been redone. ...There is nothing that has changed about my apartment, and now it's $1,000 more than when I moved in seven years ago."

Mack said she understands that landlords have bills to pay and in some cases are the victims of municipalities' overreliance on property taxes. She's sympathetic to small landlords who are seeing their costs increase, she said, but rent hikes are often the result of "big corporate real estate companies coming in, buying up property, and jacking up prices."

Miller said the City Council wants to understand the factors that are driving rent increases, including tax rates. That's why an ordinance hasn't been introduced yet, she said  she doesn't see rent stabilization as something that should happen in a vacuum.

"Were not going to propose something that comes out of nowhere," she said.

Why Rhode Island used to have rent control  and doesn't anymore

Rhode Island used to have rent control.

During World War II, the federal government imposed rent control on about 80% of the nation's housing stock. Many of those policies remained in place through the early 1950s, in response to the housing shortage caused by the pause in construction during the war.

In Rhode Island, rent restrictions finally expired in 1953, sparking a debate about whether municipalities had the authority to enact their own rent control ordinances.

Democrats, including Gov. Dennis Roberts, tried to pass a statewide rent control law that year, but it was blocked by the Republican-controlled state Senate. So some cities, including Central Falls and Woonsocket, tried to take matters into their own hands.

The attorney general's office, however, said they couldn't do that. Enacting rent control would require using "police powers" that are vested in the General Assembly and hadn't been delegated to cities and towns, Assistant Attorney General Archie Smith wrote in an advisory opinion.

The Congress of Institutional Organizations (CIO), which had pushed for emergency rent control, strongly disputed that idea. It would make the home rule charter an "empty document," CIO attorney Julius Michaelson told Woonsocket officials. But in the end, no communities challenged the decision.

Years later, in 1978, Newport considered instituting a rent control ordinance. By then, Michaelson had been elected attorney general, and he declined the city's request for an opinion on whether it could legally do so.

The attorney general "cannot serve as the lawyer for the 39 cities and towns and has generally refrained from rendering opinions on purely local matters over which he has no enforcement authority," Michaelson wrote. While he said he wouldn't challenge any rent control ordinance that Newport instituted, the city didn't end up moving forward with the idea.

'It's just not sustainable'

Since the question of whether cities can adopt rent control ordinances on their own was never tested in court, it remains something of an open question. And in Providence, Mayor Brett Smiley opposes the idea.

"While Mayor Smiley is deeply concerned about the cost of rent in Providence, rent stabilization has proven to be an ineffective policy in other communities," spokesman Josh Estrella said. "It does not control property costs, arbitrarily picks winners and losers, and often leads to unintended consequences such as reduced investments in property maintenance."

Establishing a citywide policy, in other words, would likely require a veto-proof majority on the City Council.

Miller said that she can't predict how much support there might be for a proposal that doesn't exist yet, but "housing affordability is a priority for a majority of councilors." (There are also more renters on the council than there have been in a long time, she said.)

"This is the most progressive City Council we've had in a very long time," DiCupe said. "So we do think there is a good shot."

DARE has been trying to get a rent control ordinance passed for years, she said. Now, for the first time, there seems to be some momentum.

"I think it has a lot to do with how uncontrollable rents have gotten," she said. "It's just not sustainable."

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Push for rent control gains momentum in RI. Is this the year?
A convenience store clerk in Texas was fatally shot following an altercation with two people who stole a bag of chips.

Humble Police Department Assistant Chief Dan Zientek said police were called at around 11:30 a.m. on Friday about a shooting in Humble, a town roughly 20 miles north of Houston.

When police arrived they found a man fatally shot inside a car in the median, Zientek said during a press conference on Friday.

No one ever anticipates just going to work that day and not coming home, he said.

A Humble (Texas) Police Department vehicle is shown.

Officials said the 42-year-old man was an employee at a Sunoco, who followed two suspects in his car after he caught them shoplifting.

Surveillance footage released by police shows two men in black hoodies entering the convenience store, with the employee right behind them. The two men wander around the store as the employee begins to mop the store.

The two suspects could be seen stopping in the chips aisle and one appears to put a bag of chips in his pants. They are then confronted by the clerk but leave the store and flee on foot. The clerk then follows them in his car.

They started shooting at him, at which he tried to reverse his car and ended up on the median, Zientek said.

The suspects then fled in two separate directions, police said.

Police said the clerk had only worked at the convenience store for a few months.

Youve lost a great citizen whos just trying to work and do their job, and instead we have two people that also have ruined their lives because they will be going to jail, Zientek said.

On Sunday night, police announced that both suspects were found and brought into custody.

The Humble Police Department alongside the Harris County Sheriff's Office and the Houston Police Department searched for the suspects using a helicopter, drones, and dogs.

Zientek said the suspects could face capital murder charges.

"It's tragic in many aspects," Zientek said. "It's tragic all the way around."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sunoco worker shot and killed in Humble, Texas, over stolen chips
ROCHESTER, N.H.  Burning questions about who could win Tuesdays presidential primary werent the top priority here Saturday evening. Instead, it was burning marshmallows.

Around 50 residents of Rochester braved the 17-degree weather common for the winter festival in this city, huddling around a few fires, making smores and drinking hot chocolate while children skated on a makeshift ice rink. But 24 hours later, politics is taking over Rochester, with former President Donald Trump holding one of his last major events before the New Hampshire primary at the citys opera house Sunday.

The small city of roughly 33,000 in southeastern New Hampshire is one of a handful of cities and towns that has mirrored the GOP statewide primary results going back to 1952.

And the campaigns know that Rochester is a bellwether, said Mayor Paul Callaghan, a Republican.

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley has also campaigned in Rochester in the final days of the race. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stopped here on his first swing through the state last year. And in many ways, the city illustrates how the GOP has changed in the last decade: Voters here twice supported former President Barack Obama before they flipped to support Trump in the 2016 and 2020 general elections.

Its a good mix of the makeup of the modern New Hampshire Republican Party, said Ryan Williams, a Republican strategist who worked for Mitt Romneys 2012 presidential campaign and for Republican former Sen. John Sununu.

Youve got very conservative activists and some longtime party stalwarts, Williams said. So that attracts quite a bit of attention in primaries.

Callaghan, the mayor, expects a contested primary race in Rochester this year.

You have the real conservative activists that are definitely more on President Trumps side. Theyre active and vocal, Callaghan said in a recent phone interview. But a lot of folks like to keep their political thoughts to themselves. Theyll vote.

Donald Trump Holds Town Hall In New Hampshire (Darren McCollester / Getty Images)

Trump country?

In the GOP primary back in 2016, Trump won this city by 20 percentage points, close to his 23-point statewide margin of victory. He could be in for a big win again in Rochester and across the state if his supporters turn out at the polls Tuesday.

Rochester is the kind of area where Republicans have found success in the Trump years as the party realigned its base around blue-collar voters who are culturally conservative.

Its going to be Trump country for sure, said Fergus Cullen, a former New Hampshire GOP chairman who is a City Council member in neighboring Dover and a self-described Never Trumper.

Trump supporters packed into the ornate opera house in Rochester, which is attached to City Hall, on Sunday evening. And Rochesters own Republican Party was represented. Carlton Cooper, the Rochester GOP chairman, addressed the crowd at the start of the program.

Donning a red hat with bold white letters spelling "MAGA," Cooper implored the crowd to back Trump and took aim at Haley, saying of her and New Hampshire GOP Gov. Chris Sununu, These two dont represent America for us. Plain and simple.

This Tuesday, lets show the world that we the people of New Hampshire are tired of Joe Biden and the Democrats actions. That we want Donald J. Trump back in the White House to make us great again! Cooper ended his speech, and the crowd erupted in cheers of Trump! Trump! Trump!

Robert Shaw III, a Republican who attended Saturdays winter festival at the common, cited gas prices and taxes as key reasons he supports Trump and saying: I love Donald Trump.

Shaws wife, Amy, is an undeclared voter planning to support Haley. But if Trump is the partys nominee, shed support him.

Is he a jerk? Yes. No ones perfect, she said. But he will help us. He will help the economy.

Five minutes down the road at Smokeys Tavern, a watering hole on the lower floor of Granite Steak and Grill, another Republican voter sitting at the bar said hes supporting Trump on Tuesday because of his experience in the White House.

Hes already been the president once, said John, 72, who declined to give his last name.

He knows what those idiots are like, said John, who works in construction. Theyre going to try to ransack him again. And I think hes probably got his plan squared away to protect himself this time.

Suzanne and Steven Pina were also having dinner at Smokeys Tavern on Saturday night, and they both plan to support Trump, too.

Both 73-year-old retirees, Steven is a Republican and Suzanne is an undeclared voter and a lifelong Rochester resident. Suzanne had considered voting for Haley but ultimately decided to back Trump.

I still felt Trump deserves a second term for everything they did and said about him, she said. I just feel he did a good job. He reduced our taxes."

Former President Donald Trump Holds Campaign Rally In Rochester, New Hampshire (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images)

The undeclared X factor

If Haley wants a strong showing against Trump, shell have to do well among anti-Trump Republicans and more moderate voters not registered with any party, who can vote in the GOP primary.

Those undeclared voters are a key bloc in Rochester and throughout the state. Nearly one-third of registered voters in Rochester are Republicans, while nearly 40% are undeclared, similar to the statewide registration.

That makes Rochester in some ways a political mixed bag, as Chris Bannon, 42, a pastor, described the citys politics at the winter festival.

You have plenty of the kind of Trump-flag, kind of MAGA crowd, which is very visible cause that just tends to be how they are, Bannon said. But theres certainly an independent kind of libertarian streak to that. I dont have a  theres not a flag to hang outside your house thats like, Im open to compromise. Lets have a conversation."

Bannon is an undeclared voter who plans to vote for Haley, because, he said, character matters.

Michele Grant, an undeclared voter at the winter festival, hasnt decided whom she is supporting. Speaking the day before DeSantis dropped out, she was torn over his record in Florida, Trumps economic record and Haleys potential role as the countrys first female president.

I think we need to have a female in there at some point, Grant said. I like her views. I like the way she presents herself.

Jonathan Roth, 57, a middle school band teacher who is also undeclared, said hes leaning toward Haley because shes more moderate. ... I dont agree with everything she has to say. But I think shes more in alignment with it with me than any of the other candidates.

Jeff, 52, a handyman and lifelong Rochester resident, is also leaning toward supporting Haley despite having backed Trump in the 2016 GOP primary. Jeff, a registered undeclared voter, declined to share his last name.

Everyones so polarized against [Trump]. Nothings going to get done if hes going to get in, Jeff said.

The key question for Haley is how many of these voters will actually head to the polls Tuesday.

Im leaning towards Nikki Haley, but I dont I dont think shes got a shot against taking him out, Jeff said. So whether I show up or not, who knows?
The U.S. and British militaries launched a fresh round of strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen on Monday, defense officials said.

The attacks, which were carried out by manned aircraft and ships, were the second round of strikes the two militaries have launched against Houthi sites in Yemen. The last round was on Jan. 11. Since then, the U.S. has struck several Houthi targets on its own to prevent the group from attacking ships in the Red Sea.

U.S. Central Command said in a statement that the latest operation, which was supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada and the Netherlands, struck eight Houthi sites in Yemen "used to attack international merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region."

The targets included missile systems and launchers, air defense systems, radars, and deeply-buried weapons storage facilities, the statement said.

"These strikes are intended to degrade Houthi capability to continue their reckless and unlawful attacks on U.S. and U.K. ships as well as international commercial shipping in the Red Sea, Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, and the Gulf of Aden," the statement added.

U.S. Strikes Hit Yemen's Houthi Rebels (U.S. Central Command / Reuters)

The Houthis, an Iranian-backed militia group that controls large swaths of territory in Yemen, have launched dozens of attacks against commercial ships and military vessels in the Red Sea in recent months. The group says the strikes are in retaliation for Israels bombing of Gaza after Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

The violence has further fueled fears that the conflict in Israel could escalate into a regional war.

The U.S. redesignated the Houthis last week as a terrorist organization, a move designed to cut off funding to the rebel group.

The Biden administration had removed the group from the U.S.' terrorist list shortly after it took office to ease the flow of food, medicine and other aid into strife-torn Yemen.
By Mitch Shin

Starting in late December 2023, North Korea kicked off its belligerent and hostile moves against South Korea.

Kim Jong-un, the supreme leader of North Korea, said that South Korea must not be considered as a partner for reconciliation or unification, during a key ruling party meeting in late December 2023.

Following his words, North Korea fired artillery shells in the western sea boundary with South Korea earlier this month and test-launched a new solid-fuel intermediate-range missile tipped with a hypersonic weapon on January 14.

About three weeks later, he said South Korea is no longer a partner for unification. Kim said the constitution should be amended to call South Korea the primary foe, according to the Norths state-controlled media.

Apparently, Pyongyang seems to have concluded that taking a hawkish approach against Seoul is strategically beneficial to its national interests, as well as strengthening ties with Moscow as it has been accused of supplying ammunition to Russia for the prolonged war in Ukraine. In light of Kims words and actions, Seoul and Washington must find some momentum to tip the balance.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol responded to the Norths recent hostile words and actions, saying that his military would punish North Korea multiple times just as hard if it launches a provocation. Washington also condemned Pyongyangs latest words and actions, while urging it to return to diplomacy.

Clearly, the vicious cycle of the tit-for-tat between the South Korea-U.S. alliance and North Korea has resumed on the Korean Peninsula.

Considering the Norths interpretation of the South Korea-U.S. joint military drills as an invasion rehearsal, North Korea will test some advanced missiles once the drills are conducted. As a corresponding measure against the Norths missile test, U.S. strategic assets will be deployed in the Souths territory or sea while Washington sanctions more individuals or entities related to the Norths missile development.

Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of Kim Jong-un, recently mocked Seouls moves, calling them action providing reasons for Pyongyang to beef up its missile capabilities.

The U.S. condemns the Norths military cooperation with Russia, but has not recalibrated its policy on North Korea to bring Kim Jong-un back to the negotiating table. U.S. President Joe Bidens approach to North Korea was an updated version of Barack Obamas strategic patience -- which is a failed approach to the denuclearization of North Korea.

North Korea shut down propaganda sites such as Uriminzokkiri, Arirang Meari and DPRK Today that were tasked with spreading propaganda information in South Korea. The Norths government agencies, such as the Committee for the Peaceful Reunification of the Country and the Mount Kumgang International Tourism Administration, which were tasked with handling relations with South Korea, have also been abolished, according to the Norths state media reports on Jan. 16.

Given the circumstances, experts have delivered their concerns and pessimistic views on the prospects of inter-Korean relations and the nuclear talks between the U.S. and North Korea for 2024.

In an article published in 38 North, the Washington-based Stimson Centers program focused on North Korea, Robert Gallucci, a former chief of the Northeast Asia Division at the Bureau of Intelligence and Research at the U.S. State Department, and Siegfried Hecker, a professor of practice at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in Monterey, who visited North Korea several times, argued that Kim Jong-uns recent words and actions point toward the prospects of a military solution using his large nuclear arsenal.

In a bid to avoid the devastating chicken game with North Korea on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea should devise a new policy to utilize the hostile words and actions made by Pyongyang.

According to a poll published by the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council, a presidential consultative body in South Korea, 73.7 percent of the respondents said unification with the North is necessary. However, more than half of the respondents supported the idea of the South and the North being two countries in which Koreans can visit freely, while only 28.5 percent supported a single sovereign state on the Korean Peninsula.

What this means is that South Koreans can be supportive when Seoul and Pyongyang agree to not seek unification, but to redefine inter-Korean relations as two different countries on the Korean Peninsula.

The emergence of such a new idea from Seoul could help tip the balance, especially when Washington faces constraints in engaging in dialogue with Pyongyang due to the 2024 U.S. presidential election and other diplomatic agendas.

It is the responsibility of a stronger and economically better country to resolve the security conflicts in the region. Rather than waiting for the Kim regime to collapse and the North to voluntarily withdraw its nuclear weapons, South Korea should take a step to formally end the 1950-53 Korean War and consistently urge North Korea to dismantle its nuclear arsenal with a blue print in which the North can coexist with South Korea peacefully on the Korean Peninsula.

Mitch Shin is a chief correspondent for The Diplomat and a research fellow at the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy. Shin was a non-resident research fellow at the Institute for Security & Development Policy, Stockholm Korea Center, and a nonresident Korea Foundation fellow at Pacific Forum.
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
YEREVAN, JANUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. The EU Foreign Affairs Council, chaired by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, will discuss Armenia and Azerbaijan, among other issues, at its January 22 meeting in Brussels, the Council of the European Union said in a press release.

The Foreign Affairs Council will discuss current affairs, during which ministers will be able to exchange views on recent events and on fast-moving developments in external relations. The High Representative will touch on Azerbaijan and Armenia in light of recent developments. He will touch on the need to enhance efforts on the normalisation process and on the ongoing work on strengthening EU-Armenia relations.

After Azerbaijans military operation in Nagorno-Karabakh on 19-20 September 2023, the European Council on 26-27 October 2023 underlined its continued support for advancing a sustainable and lasting peace between the two countries, and expressed its support for the Brussels normalisation process. At the November 2023 Foreign Affairs Council, ministers agreed on stepping up EU support to Armenia by strengthening the EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) and exploring options to provide non-lethal support to Armenia under the European Peace Facility as well as for a visa liberalisation dialogue. In December 2023, EU Ministers of Foreign Affairs held an informal exchange of views with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan and discussed how to strengthen EUArmenia relations, EU support to Armenia and the prospects for Armenia-Azerbaijan normalization, reads the press release.
Macquarie Technology Group's Data Centres division has received the go-ahead for its plans to construct its IC3 Super West facility in Sydney, which it claims will handle artificial intelligence (AI) workloads.

According to Macquarie, the Independent Planning Commission NSW has "favourably determined" on its application for the facility's construction, allowing it to start building.

Currently, selected early works are taking place on the site, with the start of stage one construction subjected to board approval.

"Like Macquarie Data Centres' other facilities, we intend for IC3 Super West to be certified Strategic by the Australian federal government making it a secure and future-proofed choice for customers who want to do business in Australia," said Macquarie Data Centres group executive David Hirst.
The conflict that has been raging in Gaza ever since the horrific terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 was so far a distant event.

The conflict that has been raging in Gaza ever since the horrific terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023 was so far a distant event. The Houthis, by disrupting traffic though the Red Sea-Suez Canal area, forced the Indian Navy into action once a ship near Indias contiguous maritime zone faced a drone hit. However, the Iranian attack on alleged terror bases in Balochistan and Pakistans retaliation against targets in Iran has brought the war much nearer South Asia. Any escalation could affect the Strait of Hormuz, through which flow over 20 million barrels of oil per day, constituting one-fifth of global consumption. Many saw it as a resurgence of the old Iran-Pakistan dissonance over militant Balochis on both sides of their 900-km porous border. Of nine million Balochis, seven million live in Pakistan the rest are in Iran. In each country, they want independence from the host nation. In Pakistan, the discrimination is perceived on an ethnicity basis, while in Iran the Shia majority also treats them as a Sunni problem. Ironically, the Balochis in both nations seek self-determination. The Iranians have long demanded that Pakistan curb the activities of the Jesh-e-Adl group. In January, a suicide bombing in Kerman caused huge loss of lives, amongst masses gathered to commemorate the death anniversary of US-killed Iranian general Qasem Suleimani. More recently, in eastern Iran, bordering Pakistan, Iranian security officials were killed by suspected terrorists from Pakistan.

To understand the Iranian objectives, the larger context needs to be studied. The Gaza conflict is really a battle between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The United States erred in ignoring two factors. One, the Palestinian issue continued unresolved, though simmering below the surface. Two, the extreme right-wing alliance of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since early 2023 had worsened the coercive treatment of Palestinians living in the West Bank, including by forced expansion of Jewish settlements. Even the warning by the head of Israels domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet was ignored. Regardless, the Biden administration envisioned a new security arrangement in West Asia and the Gulf through the Abraham Accords, aimed at normalising

Israels relations with the principal Gulf nations. This new strategic alliance was to contain Iranian influence in the so-called Shia crescent running from Iran to the Mediterranean. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco joined it. Saudi Arabia held back until its preconditions were met, which included a solution to the Palestinian issue. The sudden and brutal attack by Hamas upturned all the American calculations. It is unlikely that Iran knew the detailed plans or timing of the attack. But it is unbelievable that Iran blindly armed and trained the Hamas fighters. The use of drones to knock out Israeli electronic parameter security and monitoring required new equipment and tactics, most honed in the Ukraine conflict. The Russian use of cheaper weapon-carrying Iranian drones has globally altered battlefield tactics. The Israeli intelligence services obviously failed to connect the dots or obtain updated information on Hamas new equipment and modified training. The Iranian retaliation, bypassing its proxies in Lebanon and Yemen, was aimed at sending a signal to all non-state actors, knowingly or unwittingly, furthering the Israeli and US agenda. Considering that ISIS took the credit for the nasty suicide bombing at Kerman, Iran chose three targets that it assessed had masterminded the attack. They bombed ISIS assets in North Syria and an alleged

Israeli Mossad facility in Erbil, the capital of Iraqs Kurdish province, and finally Jesh-e-Adl, a Balochi terrorist organisation with a history of past attacks on Iranian security forces. Coincidentally, former Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested for espionage in Pakistan, was reportedly picked up from Iran by the last group before being handed over to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence. Iran saw them having played a role in recent attacks on their security forces, besides likely operational cooperation with ISIS. The Erbil attack on an alleged Mossad espionage complex indicates suspicion of an Israeli role in recent bombings or shootings within Iran. Iran also vowed revenge against Israel for its attack on a Revolutionary Guards base in Syrias capital Damascus, which killed five guardsmen.

The Pakistan-Iran standoff de-escalated rather quickly. Pakistan has an interim government tasked to oversee the conduct of a crucial parliamentary election. Similarly, Irans priority is to have the conflict in Gaza ended before Israel completely decapitates the top leadership of Hamas. US President Joe Biden, with his re-election 10 months away, is under domestic pressure to stop the butchery in Gaza. But the Israeli Prime Minister has diametrically opposite considerations as ending of the Gaza mayhem without the clear elimination of Hamas is tantamount to defeat, or at least failure. Besides initial intelligence lapses and a tardy military response to the October 7 attacks, the absence of a clear victory will cost Mr Netanyahu his job. He is therefore resisting US pressure to end military operations and start moving towards a political solution. Mr Netanyahus vocal rejection of a Palestinian state openly defies the US.

According to some reports, India has allowed an Israeli team to start recr-uiting workers from India to replace Palestinians in the Israeli workforce. This is a dangerous move that can cause ripples in the Arab world and generate anti-India sentiments. In the six Gulf Coordination Council nations, the eight million Indians, who mostly hold blue-collar jobs, could face a backlash.

The continuing attacks by the US and its allies on the Houthis have so far had limited effect on Houthis ability to disrupt maritime traffic in the Red Sea. They do not need to launch missiles and drones continuously. Even intermittent firing scares vessels away and raises insurance and freight rates. The Iranian escalation holds some lessons. Iran would prefer to bleed Israel using proxies. But it cannot control escalation if even one of the multiple players decides to punish Iran through the acts of non-state actors.

In conclusion, Israels Gaza operation needs to end very soon. Israel also requires not only a change of government but a more moderate and accommodative administration. An interim governance mechanism is needed for Gaza and the West Bank. The US is reportedly asking the Saudis and Emiratis to take up that task. Huge financial aid would be needed for reconstruction and rehabilitation of over two million people without jobs, medical care, schools and homes. Even if all the above happens, the region would still be at the starting point of a more peaceful West Asia. Meanwhile, the risk of a slip between the proverbial cup and the lip looms over the entire region.
As required by the Supreme Court ruling settling the dispute, the Uttar Pradesh government has allocated land for the new mosque, which will be some 25 kilometres from the city centre. Thus far, the project exists only on paper while the local Muslim community is wary of the state body that is raising funds for its construction.

Ayodhya (AsiaNews/Agencies)  While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the grandiose Hindu temple dedicated to Rama, the start date for building the new mosque was also announced.

The complex will be located some 25 kilometres from the heart of the city of Ayodhya, as required by a ruling of the Indian Supreme Court that in 2019 and 2020 settled the matter between Hindus and Muslims.

Indias highest court awarded the disputed site to Hindus while granting five acres in the nearby village of Dhannipur to Muslims.

Haji Arfat Shaikh, who chairs the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF), a trust created specifically for the development of the project, announced that the construction will begin in May, after the holy month of Ramadan (called Ramzan in India), noting that the work should be completed in three to four years.

The old Babri Mosque, dating back to the 16th century, was demolished in 1992 by a group of Hindu fanatics, who claimed that it stood on the site where the god Rama was born. Riots followed resulting in the death of about 2,000 people, most of them Muslims.

Although the intervention of the Supreme Court defused tensions, the construction of the Ram Mandir proceeded at a rapid pace, while plans for the mosque exist only on paper.

For many observers, today's inauguration was a national event that consecrated not only the temple, but also the figure of Modi as the political-spiritual leader of the Hindu community.

The final design of the mosque is expected in late February, but early reports suggest that it will be a grandiose construction, better than the Taj Mahal", and will house the worlds biggest Quran that will measure about 21 feet (6.5 metres), said IICF chairman Shaikh, who is also a leading member of the ruling ultranationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

It will also be the first mosque in India with five minarets, and the calls to prayer will be accompanied by a water and light show.

A brick with Quran verses will travel to Madinah, then to all of India's most important dargah (tombs of Muslim saints) before it is laid at the construction site.

Shaikh opposed the name initially chosen for the mosque, Ayodhya Mosque, changing it to Muhammad bin Abdullah, the name of the Prophet. But the main task of the trust will be to raise funds for the project.

Unlike the campaign launched for the Rama temple, the IICF will not go door-to-door, but will create instead a website in late February and early March to encourage online donations, Shaikh explained.

The local Muslim community has expressed doubts about this. If not enough funds have been raised so far, it is because of the economic conditions of Muslims as well as lingering anxieties and concerns linger over the project.

Some people familiar with the matter also cited the delays of the Indian bureaucracy.

More than four years have passed since the court order, and efforts have been consistently hampered by administrative delays, said a senior member of the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board, speaking to the Frontline.

While we acknowledge that we cannot compete with the construction of the Ram temple, the challenges we now face were not anticipated, he added.

The board, which was established by the government to oversee all Islamic charitable activities in the state, set up the IIFC for the construction of the mosque.

In May last year, the IICF planned to ask the Uttar Pradesh government for a tax waiver from the Ayodhya Development Authority to secure approval of its project.

Locals hope that, despite Shaikh's proposed revisions to the original (too modernist) design, plans to build a hospital within the mosque complex will remain in the final project.

In fact, people living near the chosen site, in the village of Dhannipur and neighbouring Raunahi, have no local healthcare facilities nor any state schools. The nearest hospital is about 40 minutes away.

Others, despite accepting the Supreme Court's verdict, continue to be wary and see no benefit in the mosque's construction.

The Sunni Waqf Board, which was awarded the land, is a body of the State government. Any interest in building the new Ayodhya Mosque will upset Hindu voters. Hence the apathy, said Khaliq Ahmad Khan, a local elderly man.

People living and working in the two villages have also reported a rise in property prices, with no immediate benefits. While a river of development is flowing in Ayodhya, why not in Dhannipur? wonders 22-year-old Raja asked.
Maimed by People's Liberation Army blasts, for 35 years he continued to exhibit his wounds to recount the events of June 4, 1989, that Beijing has done everything possible to erase from memory. A former employee of a public company, disillusioned with the Party "that shot me in the legs," he had encountered Christian faith support in his struggles.

Beijing (AsiaNews) - Qi Zhiyong, a man who was mutilated by the wounds suffered on 4 June 1989 in the repression in Tiananmen Square, has died from illness in a Beijing hospital and who - despite the repeated intimidation received from the communist authorities - never stopped talking about the cause of the wounds on his body.

Born in Beijing, he was 33 years old and working for a state-owned Qi Zhiyong construction company when in 1989 he decided to join the students demonstrating in the capital's large central square. And he was also there when the harsh repression began on June 4th.

I saw people run over  he said  blood was splashing everywhere. The tanks kept moving, as if the people weren't there."

Hit by the People's Liberation Army's barrages while fleeing, he ended up in hospital with wounds to both legs and one of his legs had to be amputated in the upper part.

During a transfusion for that operation he also contracted hepatitis C and a liver tumor diagnosed in 2017 led to his death, even if the family did not want to reveal the date and hospital where his death occurred due to fear of retaliation.

Courageously, in fact, during all these years Qi Zhiyong has always used his disability to break the silence imposed by Beijing on the events of June 4, 1989.

Qi said that after the amputation of his leg, he often wore shorts to show the scars and tell his story to anyone who asked. He said his state-owned company, which fired him because of the injury, had offered him 100,000 yuan (,000 in 1989 dollars) in exchange for keeping quiet about how he lost his leg, which he rejected.

I will tell this story for the rest of my life, he said, because it's not just my story. If I had accepted that offer I would have gone mad: I have a responsibility towards this nation."

As a result of this behavior he did not receive any help from the "official" associations for the protection of disabled people. But he continued on his path, also committing himself to collecting the names of other people who had become disabled due to the "June 4th incidents".

For this reason - despite his condition - he had also suffered restrictive measures from the Beijing authorities.

In his commitment to the memory of the Tiananmen Square events, Qi Zhiyong was also supported by his Christian faith, which he had embraced in the years following the 1989 tragedy.

"I had been educated to believe in our government - he said in an interview - but the government shot me in the legs. Many people have lost faith in the education, politics and ideology of the Communist Party. So we rushed to church."

In 2017 he said he was praying for Liu Xiaobo, the jailed Chinese intellectual who won the Nobel Peace Prize and promoted the Charta08 movement for human rights in China, who died that same year. I pray for him every day in the name of the Lord Jesus, he wrote in a message.
Japanese law would provide for foreign female interns to have a pregnancy while receiving the necessary subsidies from the company, and then resume the internship. But according to Jiho Yoshimizu, representative of the nonprofit organization that carried out the investigation uncovering the abuses, "their human and reproductive rights are in fact violated by the current Japanese labor system."

Tokyo (AsiaNews/Agencies) - When a young Vietnamese woman discovered she was pregnant in 2019 after arriving in Japan on a "technical training" visa, she was given a choice: "Abort or return to Vietnam". But the returning home would have left her with no way to repay her internship recruiters.

"She needs to stay to repay her debts," said Shiro Sasaki, general secretary of the Zentoitsu (All United) workers' union, which defended the interns cause by revealing that several women, especially Vietnamese, had been forced to undergo contraceptive treatment by the organizations involved in the work placement program in Japan.

The matter was reported by an investigation by a Japanese NGO, in which data were made public on Sunday. From this investigation a "practice" emerges that violates the human and reproductive rights of Vietnamese women.

The survey, conducted between August and September last year, covered current and former Vietnamese trainees and received responses from 59 of them. Of the interviewees, 36 said they had received instructions from intermediary organizations in Vietnam that select trainee candidates to avoid pregnancy in any way.

Nine of them were directly advised to undergo contraceptive treatment. Five did, and one of them explicitly said that she had been made to understand that she could not go to Japan without following those instructions. The other four said they had not undergone it, mainly due to the high cost.

Furthermore, it emerged that there were numerous cases in which intermediary organizations warned Vietnamese trainees that they would be sent home if they became pregnant during their work stay in Japan.

Jiho Yoshimizu, representative of the non-profit organization that carried out the investigation, said that it is unthinkable that all these women were truly able to choose contraception of their own free will: It is a problem from a violation of humanitarian law that foreign workers' pregnancy is limited due to the inadequate labor system in Japan," Yoshimizu added.

Also for these reasons, Fumio Kishida's government is considering the possibility of abolishing the current technical internship program for foreigners, started in 1993 to transfer knowledge and skills to workers from developing countries.

According to the Organization for the Technical Training of Interns, Vietnam sends the largest number of interns to Japan as part of the program: today there would be around 10,000 in the Japanese country, and the majority would be women.

A few years ago a news case involved a Vietnamese intern who was arrested for abandoning her child for fear that her employer would send her home due to her pregnancy.

Japanese law, on paper, guarantees equal employment opportunities for men and women, and prohibits improper treatment of female workers following pregnancy and childbirth, and foreign women are also entitled to receive benefits such as lump sum payments for childbirth and care of children, antenatal and postnatal leave and childcare.

However, the investigation highlighted that interns' reproductive rights, which allow them to decide whether to have and raise a child, have not been respected in the current system, concludes Yoshimizu.
China-Cambodia intangible heritage exhibition enchants visitors

Xinhua) 11:12, January 22, 2024

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)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
New foreign minister's meetings with business lobby groups spark speculation

By Park Jae-hyuk

A series of meetings by the newly-appointed foreign minister with the heads of business associations have sparked speculation that the ministry may have renewed efforts to regain control over international trade matters from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, according to industry officials and diplomatic experts, Monday.

Cho Tae-yul, a career diplomat inaugurated as the foreign minister on Jan. 12, met Federation of Korean Industries Chairman Ryu Jin and Vice Chairman Kim Chang-beom, who was also a career diplomat, at the business lobby groups headquarters in Seoul, Monday.

Last Friday, Cho participated in a series of New Year meetings with venture company representatives along with SMEs and Startups Minister Oh Young-ju.

The foreign ministry explained that Cho is well aware of the importance of the ministrys role as an economic ministry in the current era of structural transformation, which involves the integration of economic and national security matters.

Cho plans to meet with Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chairman Chey Tae-won, Wednesday, and is said to be considering another meeting with Korea International Trade Association Chairman Koo Ja-yeol.

The new minister has built his expertise in trade affairs, and the ministry is eager to get back its authority over international trade, said Cho Sung-ryul, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies, who previously served as the consul general in Osaka. Given that he has a close relationship with President Yoon Suk Yeol, he appears to be trying to achieve the goal at this moment when the ministry has ample power.

When the transition committee for the Yoon administration was launched in March 2022, the foreign ministry tried to take back the Office of the Minister for Trade from the industry ministry, although the attempt ended in failure. Then Foreign Minister nominee Park Jin and then Industry Minister nominee Lee Chang-yang were in a tug of war over which institution would have the authority to promote trade.

Trade affairs were initially placed under the jurisdiction of the foreign ministry. But the Park Geun-hye administration transferred the function to the industry ministry in 2013. Although former President Moon Jae-in tried to return the authority to the foreign ministry in 2017, the effort fell through.

Sources familiar with this issue expect the foreign ministry to ramp up efforts to regain the authority over trade, if the Government Organization Act is revised after the April general elections. They noted that the foreign ministry convinced the president following his frequent overseas visits.

In contrast, the industry ministry is perceived to be losing influence, particularly as the positions of the industry minister and trade minister have been filled by former professors who are seen as prioritizing self-promotion and personal network building rather than safeguarding the interests of the trade office.

Industry officials, however, have opposed the transfer of trade functions to the foreign ministry, emphasizing that industry and trade are inseparable in Korea, which relies heavily on manufacturing and exports. A survey by the Korea Industry Alliance Forum showed in 2022 that nearly nine out of 10 exporters said trade functions should be retained by the industry ministry.

Concerning the issue, the foreign ministry said it seeks to remove walls between ministries, so that they can maximize each of their expertise and work together for the national interest.

We will cooperate with the industry ministry in charge of trade affairs and relevant industry officials to pursue the integration of economic and national security matters, the foreign ministry said.
U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Silt, is pictured in July at the Capitol in Washington. Fleeing a tough reelection bid in House District 3 where she lives, Boebert is moving from the mountains to the plains in hope of finding conservative pastures green enough to salvage her place in Congress.
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Moscow is due to give explanations at the UN on Monday over the thousands of children who Kiev claims were forcibly transferred to Russia after the start of the invasion in February 2022.

The Committee on the Rights of the Child, made up of 18 independent experts, will discuss Russia's case over two days as part of a regular review.

The transfer of Ukrainian children last March earned President Vladimir Putin and Russian children's commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged "illegal deportation" of minors. Moscow said it considers such an initiative "null and void".

In the case before the UN, Russia received the list of experts' concerns months ago.

They want to know how many children were "evacuated" to Russia or to the Ukrainian territories under Russian occupation, and "the measures taken to protect the right of these children to preserve their identity, including their nationality".

Kiev estimates that some 20,000 Ukrainian children were forcibly sent to Russia. Only 400 have been repatriated so far.

Moscow says its aim is to protect these children from the fighting.

Ukrainian refugee minors - AFP/SABINE COLPART AP/OLIVIER MATTHYS

The relocation of the evacuated children is done "at their request and with their consent", Russia said in written answers submitted last year to the committee, which the UN released to the press last week.

The document does not put a figure on the total number of children transferred. But it says that "among the evacuees were also children from public residential institutions for orphans and destitute children (about 2,000 persons in total), whose legal representatives were the directors or employees of these institutions".

Moscow's response also indicates that according to Interior Ministry statistics, 46,886 Ukrainian children acquired Russian citizenship between 1 April 2022 and the middle of last year.
Tesla appears to be doubling down on its China strategy after the company's chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, visited Giga Shanghai. Tesla also flew Cybertruck prototypes for display at its showrooms in China as part of an awareness campaign.

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Tesla Chief of Design Franz von Holzhausen visited #Shanghai and said #Tesla teams will establish a strong presence in China to cater to the unique demands of the Chinese market. #China $TSLA pic.twitter.com/aDXfvvaX4C  CN Wire (@Sino_Market) January 19, 2024

Tesla hasn't made a secret of the important role China plays in its long-term strategy. It's understandable, considering that we're talking about the biggestmarket in the world. But it's more than that, as Giga Shanghai is now supplying many Tesla markets around the world, including Canada. At the moment, this is Tesla's most efficient gigafactory and the one with the highest production capacity, at over one million cars.Like many other companies, Tesla is not putting all its eggs in the same basket. Gigafactory Mexico, recently announced, is projected to compete with Giga Shanghai regarding production capacity (two million cars when fully expanded) and efficiency, thanks to the more modern manufacturing processes. Tesla is poised to announce another gigafactory in India soon, which will compete directly with Giga Shanghai.Still, Tesla's Chinese gigafactory will not lose its shine over the years. The local market is too important, and the supply chains Tesla established are impossible to replicate in other parts of the world. In time, Giga Shanghai will become even more critical for Tesla, not less. This was crystal clear after Tesla handed the Project Highland development to its R&D team in China . The refreshed Model 3 owes its design changes to this Chinese team, which also used local customers' feedback to improve the sedan.This became even more obvious after Tesla's chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, visited China. According to a report by Shanghai Securities News, Tesla will further refine its vehicles sold in China based on what local customers want. Tesla's R&D center in Shanghai plays a crucial role as the American EV maker is trying to meet the unique needs of the Chinese market.Tesla aims to have vehicles explicitly designed for the local market, and not only in China. With the third-generation EVs, Tesla will have a common architecture and integrated manufacturing processes, but the vehicle design and features will be tailor-made for each market. This ensures the cars are best suited to compete with local brands, which are becoming more popular, especially in China.Tesla is also trying to boost brand awareness in the country, and it uses the Cybertruck's massive popularity for this. At least two Cybertruck prototypes have been flown to China to be displayed in Tesla showrooms. This is a move Elon Musk confirmed more than a week ago when the first rumors started surfacing in Chinese chat groups. Sadly, as Musk indicated, getting the Cybertruck road legal in China would be very difficult Whether Tesla will certify and sell the Cybertruck in China or other markets outside North America is unclear. Many argued that itswould make it impossible to drive in most countries with a private driver's license. Still, many people in China and even Europe have made reservations for the electric pickup.
Hyundai made a car for parents whose kids are mad about Disneyland and get to decide on the next family car. The Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition will now arrive in showrooms. The red carpet is already rolled out. The car is going to star in an Ioniq 5 Platinum Road Trip Social Series in the company of Josh Peck and John Stamos.

Actors from the Disney family will promote the car on the show starting on January 23. Peck and Stamos will take a road trip in the special edition and visit several locations that serve as historical milestones in the history of The Walt Disney Company.Their route will include The Walt Disney Company Studio Lot, Tam O'Shanter restaurant, Griffith Park, and Palm Springs Air Museum.Behind-the-scenes content, photos, running vehicle footage, and more will show up on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.The series will feature four episodes between 2 and 4 minutes, released throughout the week. All of them will be uploaded on the Disney YouTube channel. Hyundai is the exclusive North American automotive sponsor for the Disney100 Celebration. So it does make sense for the carmaker to come up with a Disney-inspired model, even though we all know right from the start who's making the decisions in the families who buy this car.The limited-run Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition was unveiled in the shape of a concept car at the New York Auto Show in April 2023 and was first shown on live TV in the opening scene of 'Dancing With the Stars' six months later. But long gone is the digital grille that showed up on the concept car, making up a head-turning front end, and so is the rear panel displaying a similar animation between the taillights.The special edition starts at $59,400, plus the $1,375 delivery charge. Only 1,000 such units will roll off the production line, all with a dual-motor setup and 320 horsepower, delivered to all four corners.The cars will be painted in Gravity Gold Matte and will ride on Disney100-exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels. Disney100 Platinum Edition badges will show up on the front fender to make sure everyone knows this is a special model.The cabin will be dominated by the exclusive terra brown and mud bray two-tone combination, while the Disney100 logo will be debased on the headrests of the front seats and on the center console armrest cover, but also on the floor mats.There is a strip on the front and rear doors, which is also inspired by the Disney theme, as it depicts the shape of Mickey Mouse 's head. The Disney theme also shows up on the screen when the car is turned on. The graphic will be accompanied by Disney music and pixie dust.
The UK is about to witness its first-ever airfield-to-airfield flight performed by an eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) with recharging. The aircraft that will be at the forefront of this trailblazing endeavor is the Axe by Skyfly, a two-seat electric aircraft designed for private use.

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There are very few private eVTOL designs out there, and they seem to have won the hearts of aviation enthusiasts all over the world despite the limited range. These one or two-seat flying machines intended for private use don't typically go beyond 20 miles (32 km). In this sense, Skyfly disrupted the industry with a private eVTOL concept that promises a range of at least 100 miles (161 km) powered exclusively by batteries and up to an impressive 300 miles (482 km) in a hybrid configuration.Introduced as an innovative, green alternative to personal air mobility, the Axe one-seat eVTOL i s also showing up as one of the top options for circuit training. It can fly like a helicopter or a fixed-wing aircraft, as well as conduct glide landings with all engines shut down, something that apparently no other eVTOL can do. Add to that minimal maintenance requirements and reduced operating costs, and you have a versatile and affordable training platform. According to Skyfly, in the aircraft training market, Axe is in a class of its own.The UK-based eVTOL maker has found the ideal partner for a breakthrough. AeroVolt is one of the UKs pioneers in electric aircraft charging infrastructure. It's in the process of installing 60 charging units at airfields across the country, which began last summer. The initial units come at 22, and the ones following this year will go up to 44 kW. And it doesn't stop there. AeroVolt will eventually install 120 kW charging units, some of which will be compatible with multiple aircraft and EVs at once.It takes three and a half hours to fully recharge the Axe private eVTOL using an AeroVolt unit. The two will demonstrate this soon as part of a trailblazing real-world demonstration, during which Skyfly's aircraft will perform the first eVTOL airfield-to-airfield flight in the UK.AeroVolt also intends to add the Axe two-seater to its fleet. It currently offers a different electric aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, to its customers. Members of the company's subscription service can rent this aircraft and book charging sessions, and they'll soon be able to do the same with the innovative Axe eVTOL.The Axe by Skyfly boasts a four-wing configuration with fixed 45-degree angle rotors. This optimized aerodynamic lift extends its range and takes gliding capabilities to the next level. The aircraft is already available for pre-orders, with pricing starting at $180,000, and first deliveries are scheduled for the end of this year.
The TikTok challenge that put a target on the back of every Hyundai and Kia in the United States will soon be two years old, but it doesn't mean teenagers have stopped stealing cars with the ridiculously easy hack.

A recent campaign by the NYPD Crime Prevention Division is proof that the Kia Boys madness is still out of control.Officers took to North Baychester last weekend to give away AirTags to Kia and Hyundai owners, telling them to install the tracker inside their vehicles. The AirTag will help law enforcement track the cars if they get stolen, providing the officers on duty with critical information on their location.If they are lucky, the Hyundai and Kia owners can recover their cars in one piece, though more often than not, the Kia Boys end up wrecking the vehicles before running away on foot. If they escape without injuries, that is, as some of the Kia Boys, sometimes aged even 12, have no idea how to drive a car and end up in hospital after trying the hack they've seen on TikTok.The NYPD officers offered free AirTags to Kia vehicles produced between 2011 and 2021 and Hyundais built between 2016 and 2021. The only requirements were a turn-key start in the car and an iPhone in the pocket.Law enforcement also gave away steering wheel locks, hoping they would prevent the theft altogether.Truth be told, the steering wheel locks are more efficient than the AirTag in the fight against the Kia Boys. The hack involves ripping off the steering wheel column and using a USB cable to start the engine via an exposed port. Due to the lack of immobilizers, the vulnerable vehicles start in seconds, with Kia Boys driving away and trying various stunts, often leading to destroying the cars.The steering wheel locks would prevent the Boys from stealing the cars altogether, though it doesn't mean car owners can avoid the damage completely. Some teenagers break into cars without even looking through the window if the owner installed a steering wheel lock, breaking the window and causing damage worth hundreds of dollars.Meanwhile, Hyundai and Kia advise car owners to patch their vehicles . The companies released a software update nearly a year ago that addresses the vulnerability, preventing the hack from turning on the engine with a USB cable. They also provide car owners with window stickers to tell potential thieves that the vulnerability has been patched, though few seem to care about them and rush to break the window of any Kia or Hyundai they find on the street.Installing the update takes approximately 30 minutes and can be done at any Hyundai and Kia dealerships in the United States.
Tang from CSL AutoTime is back with another exciting racing video. For this internal combustion engine versus electric propulsion showdown, he picked the Ferrari 488 GTB and the pre-facelift Tesla Model 3 Performance. Obviously enough, these vehicles couldn't be more different.

Photo: CSL AutoTime on YouTube

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Beginning with their powertrains, the Fezza packs a twin-turbo V8 as opposed to a pair of electric motors for the Model 3 Performance. It's rear-wheel drive rather than all-wheel drive, putting the 488 GTB at a serious disadvantage. Looking at the bigger picture, bear in mind the Ferrari is lighter than Tesla's entry-level performance car.Launched in 2015, the 488 GTB is listed with a dry weight of 1,370 kilograms (3,020 pounds). The curb weight is 1,475 kilograms (3,252 pounds) in European spec. In addition to being a four-door sedan, the Model 3 Performance is heavier still due to its high-voltage battery. Tang claims 1,844 kilograms (4,065 pounds), which is correct.Pictured in RHD because the video was filmed in Thailand rather than Europe or the US, the cars duked it out over the quarter mile no fewer than five times. Tang won a single drag race in the 488 GTB, namely the first. His buddy got revenge in the following race, then proceeded to assert dominance in the remaining quarter-mile showdowns.At the end of the day, the Model 3 Performance's best time was 11.58 seconds. By comparison, the 488 GTB clocked a rather impressive 11.66 seconds. Not bad for a supercar from a decade ago, right? Unfortunately, a hi-po internal combustion engine doesn't really stand a chance against the near-instant torque of an electric powertrain.This reality, together with increasingly restrictive fuel economy and emission regulations, forced the Prancing Horse of Maranello to join the dark side. During the Italian automaker's Q3 2023 earnings conference call, big kahuna Benedetto Vigna confirmed that an electric vehicle is due to launch in 2025. The mysterydoesn't mean that Ferrari will become an overpriced version of Tesla.Lest we forget, Germany and the European Union reached a deal that allows new combustion-engined vehicles to be sold in the Old Continent past the 2035 phase-out deadline as long as they run on carbon-neutral synthetic fuels . Under this exemption, Ferrari will be much obliged to keep its V12s and V8ss alive for the foreseeable future.Over at Tesla, the electric vehicle manufacturer produced 1.8 million vehicles and delivered 1.8 million vehicles in 2023. Still the biggest name in the EV space, Tesla may soon hit 2 million vehicles due to the aesthetically challenged Cybertruck.Elon Musk has estimated 12 to 18 months for the Cybertruck to reach a yearly production volume of 250,000 units, which is hugely ambitious. Then again, few people gave Tesla a chance when they were struggling to ramp up Model 3 production
It's probably only a matter of time before our species finally reaches Mars, opening the doors for humanity to expand its reach to a second planet in this solar system. It will be a slow and costly effort, but we will manage to make the place a home for us eventually.

Photo: SpaceX

Photo: Steven Benner

That's great news for us, but not so great for whatever life may still be up there. That's right, life on Mars. We know for a fact the planet once had it (all we need is to prove it), but there are people, quite a lot of them, who insist life is present in some form on Mars as we speak.We're not talking, of course, about sentient life, and not even about complex organisms, but by creatures that nonetheless will be seriously disturbed by our presence there. Because no, we do not come in peace.Humans will not go to Mars with fighting in mind, because no matter what life is there, it's in no condition to fight. We will not go there to terraform the place because we don't have the means to do that yet. But we will go there to exploit the place.One of the main pillars of planetary research for us is to use whatever resources we find on location. Called in-situ resource utilization, the process is meant to provide astronauts with the tools and materials they need to survive, conduct their work, and return home, all while relying as much as possible on local resources.And one of the resources we can count on on Mars is water. It comes as near-surface ice and, among other things, it will be combined with carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to propel the vehicles we'll be taking to the Red Planet.There is no actual plan in place for getting the water out from under the surface, but it's not hard to imagine how the entire process will work. Estimates are a mission to Mars will require mining operations capable of delivering hundreds of tons of water.For the idea to work, the mining equipment will have to be sent there and start operations before the arrival of humans. And that, strangely enough, opens the doors for something that may prove revolutionary in astrobiology.You see, for the time being, Mars is pristine, despite the fact our species has sent plenty of machines to study it. Once humans arrive things will change, as no matter what we do, contamination is likely unavoidable.But the mining equipment I mentioned earlier, which will operate with no humans around, may prove ideal for scientists trying to prove the existence of life on Mars and study its complexities. That's because mining is just like sample collection operations, only on a much larger scale.So why not use the time we have at our disposal to hit two birds with one stone: collect water for human use, and prove/investigate Martian life?That's an idea NASA liked so much that it backed it this year through an Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program award. It was put forward by Steven Benner from the Foundation For Applied Molecular Evolution, and it is officially called Add-on to Large-Scale Water Mining Operations on Mars to Screen for Introduced and Alien Life.Benner describes water mined in light of human arrival as "an extremely large-scale astrobiological sample, far larger than dry cached rocks." Given how it will also likely contain dust brought in by storms, it will also be a snapshot of the entire planet, not only of the place where the mining takes place.The idea calls for the creation of an agnostic life-finding (ALF) system. It's for the time being a piece of tech that has not been fully detailed, but might change the way space exploration is done.It will work on the assumption that Mars life forms use informational polymers the likes of DNA, and it will be capable of extracting the genetic makeup of these polymers from the water generated through mining.The system, whose exact specifications were not disclosed, would also need to be capable of allowing for in-situ analysis of the samples, giving us a heads-up about the potential life forms humans could encounter at the landing site. ALF would be small enough to be a negligible addition to a mining system, both in terms of weight and cost.In a nutshell, it would go a bit like this. Before humans launch for Mars , mining gear equipped with ALF is sent to Mars. While the main hardware is doing its job of digging up and storing water, the ALF is busy looking for signs of life in the same water.The really interesting part about the ALF is that its applications are virtually limitless, and it could easily be adapted for use on other types of machines and on any world in the solar system and beyond it. The only condition is for the said place to have water.There is no deadline for when a prototype of the system could be ready. NASA's backing of the idea means rocket guys like it, but in no way does it guarantee it will ever become a real thing.
By Lee Min-hyung

Hyundai Motor Group and battery units of Samsung and LG are calling on the U.S. government to delay the implementation of a rule that restricts electric vehicle (EV) batteries with Chinese materials from receiving subsidies from the world's largest economy, companies said Monday.

Under the regulation, a joint venture with a more-than-25-percent stake held by a Chinese entity is classified as a Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC). Any EVs with battery minerals sourced from an FEOC cannot receive subsidies from the U.S. government from 2025.

In a written request to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Hyundai Motor Group asked the department to temporarily adopt a list of applicable critical materials, including graphite and a limited number of other applicable critical materials, that would be temporarily excluded from the application of the proposed rule.

Industry officials said the timeline is too short for Korean firms to stably diversify the supply channel from other territories due to Chinas dominance in some key battery materials production.

For example, China refined and produced 69 percent of the synthetic graphite worldwide in 2022, which is the reason that they say Korean firms should take the issue more seriously and come up with specific countermeasures from a mid- to longer-term viewpoint.

They said Korean firms are advised to diversify their supply chain from a long-term perspective, so they do not unexpectedly fall victim to growing protectionism from the United States and other big economies.

Korean automakers and battery firms should map out their long-term plans to diversify their supply channels for key battery materials, said Kim Moon-tae, an industry policy division head at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Even if it is still a time-consuming task for them, they should not delay the move any longer, in a preemptive step to tackle the escalating external political uncertainty, according to him.

The imminent task is to persuade the U.S. government to delay the timeline on the rule, he said. But companies have little to do for now, so the Korean government and authorities have to represent them and send requests continuously to the U.S. authority.

An official from a local automaker said the voice of concern is raised not just by the Korean firms, but their U.S. counterparts.

We expect the U.S. authority to show more leniency to automakers here and abroad, as the home-grown automakers from the worlds largest economy also rely on sourcing materials for electric vehicle (EV) batteries from China, the official said.

LG Energy Solution and Samsung SDI, two of Koreas largest battery manufacturers for EVs, also delivered a similar request to the U.S., urging the latter to consider delaying the implementation of the rule for another two years due to their heavy reliance on Chinese battery minerals.
A 1959 Chrysler New Yorker that recently emerged from a private property seems to check many boxes for a complete restoration, still boasting solid metal and the original V8.

Let me start by highlighting how rare this 1959 Chrysler New Yorker really is.The most popular New Yorker in 1959 was the four-door sedan, as Chrysler produced 7,792 units in this body configuration. The four-door hardtop was the runner-up with 4,805 units, while the two-door hardtop accounted for 2,435 units of the entire production. The two-door convertible was the rarest version, as only 286 New Yorkers rolled off the assembly lines with a removable top.The model listed on Craigslist is a two-door hardtop, and while no specifics are available, it's safe to assume few are still around today.One of the reasons this New Yorker managed to survive the test of time with flying colors is the factory undercoating. It still exhibits undercarriage rust, but the floors' condition is impressive considering its age.The car rolled off the assembly lines with only a couple of options, such as power brakes and power steering. It's mostly complete, with the owner explaining that the stainless trim "is in excellent shape."The engine under the hood is no longer under the hood. The original 413 is still available, but the owner says the V8 is currently installed in another project. It'll sell with the New Yorker, but it's worth knowing it doesn't run.We're not getting many details about the interior, so the seller still has many questions to answer despite claiming the vehicle is complete. A solid interior allowing for an easy restoration would make this New Yorker even more desirable, including for customers who'd want to turn it into a daily driver without bringing it back to factory specifications.A New Yorker is rarer than most competitors sold in the United States in 1959, including the Ford Galaxie and the Chevrolet Impala. Born in 1958, the Chevy Impala was already a superstar in 1959, gaining series status and embracing a different path from the Bel Air. The Impala eventually became the best-selling car in Chevrolet's domestic market.The two-door hardtop looks restorable, and I don't expect it to remain available for too long. The New Yorker is not as popular as a 1959 Impala, but considering how rare it is and the complete package, a professional restorer will probably give it a second chance.The New Yorker can be yours for $6,000, and potential buyers can see it in person close to Sacramento. The engine is no longer in the car, so the buyer will need a trailer to take it home if they reach a deal. Based on the provided photos, the car rolls freely.
As per the Chinese calendar, humanity is getting closer and closer to the start of the year of the Dragon. On February 10, we all should start a period filled with opportunities, but also changes and challenges. And what better way to face them all than on the backs of a brand-new Italian scooter?

Vespa has a very long tradition of tying its products to all sorts of events in this world, and that includes the start of new Chinese years. And given the importance of the Dragon for Chinese culture, Vespa was not about to miss a connection.As such, the Italian scooter-maker, perhaps the most famous in the world, announced at the end of last week the launch of a special edition of the Vespa 946 called Dragon, but also of a matching varsity jacket to make sure the idea has the fullest of impacts.Now don't go thinking Vespa went above and beyond and significantly modified the scooter. Underneath the special body  we'll discuss that in a bit  people will get the same single-cylinder engine that is 125cc in displacement, the single arm and shock suspension, and the eight-liter (two gallons) fuel tank.Ever since its introduction in 2013 the 946 was however a canvas for special edition models, and that is why it was chosen for the Dragon as well. To stand out from the previous models, but also from the Bunny edition that was also available at the time of writing, the Dragon received a special and unique golden hue.The centerpiece of the design is the emerald green dragon that is tattooed on the bike's body, snaking its way from the ride's rear end all the way to its front. Its color makes it unmissable, just like the one that was fitted on the varsity jacket.Believe it or not, it is this varsity jacket that's actually the highlight of today's Vespa piece of news. That's because special editions of Vespa 946 we've seen before, but clothing items made by the Italians we did not.The jacket is the Italians' "inaugural fashion item" and it is meant to celebrate "the legendary status of the iconic scooter and reflects its signature combination of style and legacy." It's a ribbed wool piece with nappa leather sleeves and it too features the dragon tattoo. It tops that though with the Vespa monogram and an ancient Chinese proverb.Vespa will make just 1888 units (the meaning behind the number was not disclosed) of the special scooter and the accompanying jacket. It will be available on the American market as well, starting in March 2024. The pricing for the model on the local market was set at $13,499, while in Canada it will sell from $16,995.
We agreed that Azerbaijan needs to return to substantive peace and normalization talks with Armenia, Josep Borrell said after chairing a meeting of the foreign ministers of EU member states that discussed the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict among other issues.

The latest territorial claims by President Aliyev are very concerning, and any violation of Armenias territorial integrity would be unacceptable and will have severe consequences for our relations with Azerbaijan, he told a news briefing in Brussels.

Earlier this month, Aliyev renewed his demands for Armenia to open an extraterritorial corridor to Azerbaijans Nakhichevan exclave. He also demanded Armenian withdrawal from eight Azerbaijani villages and again dismissed Yerevans insistence on using the most recent Soviet maps to delimit the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.

Borrell issued the same warning to Baku in November as the EU decided to deploy more observers to Armenias volatile border with Azerbaijan. The 27-nation bloc launched the monitoring mission in February 2023 with the stated aim of preventing or reducing ceasefire violations there.

Aliyev twice cancelled talks with Pashinian which the EU planned to host in October. Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov similarly withdrew from a meeting with his Armenian counterpart scheduled for November 20 in Washington. Baku accused the Western powers of pro-Armenian bias. It now wants to negotiate with Yerevan without third-party mediation.
22 January 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

As new rules and reforms are implemented, the banking sector in Azerbaijan is also starting to develop. As banking is one of the leading sectors in the economy, the government pays special attention to development in this area. Figuratively speaking, the banking system plays a nourishing role as a blood vessel in the human anatomy. In a nutshell, banks are the source of finance for the economy.

In addition to the government, foreign finance institutions that intend to take part in the economy of the country are interested in banking sectors and keen to cooperate with banks. With the help of banks, these institutions can reach out to the local economy to find partnerships. One of such institutions is The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

EBRD has been cooperating with Azerbaijan for a long and financed 189 projects so far. European Bank is keen to broaden its activity in Azerbaijan and therefore it intend to cooperate with local banks.

Speaking to Azernews on the issue, Nataly Mouravidze, Head of EBRD in Azerbaijan, noted that the Bank is still working with its potential new partners, and as soon as it finalise agreements with them, the Bank will publicly announce these new partnerships.

As we cannot do so before the signings, please stay tuned for the announcements that might come from our Baku team in the coming months. At this stage, however, we can tell you about our guiding principles to the client selection. In general, we focus on the private sector and are open to partnering with those institutions that are strategically aligned with our priorities (such as MSME support, green and inclusive financing, for instance), have the critical mass to make an impact in the sector and, importantly, operate on a commercial, transparent, arms-length and self-sustainable basis," Nataly Mouravidze said.

She pointed out that the EBRD believes that creating conditions for small businesses to thrive is fundamental for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. A vibrant small and medium-sized enterprise sector is a vital ingredient for a healthy market economy. That is why one of Banks key priorities in Azerbaijan is to support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

In many cases, the most effective way to channel funds to the private sector is by financing local banks who will then on-lend these investments to them. We tend to finance local banks due to their proximity with the local businesses. Apart from financing, however, we also include, where relevant, grants, technical support, and advisory services to enable them, and their clients to make the best of the financing provided to them, Nataly Mouravidze stressed.

She said that the Bank actively working to do more in this direction, and where possible, to provide loans in the local currency. Mouravidze underscored that one of Banks key priorities now is to strengthen local financial institutions so the private sector has better access to finance for growth. This will help us to increase EBRD lending to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises and to support their competitiveness, green finance, and women-led businesses, and youth employment opportunities.

We support the development of a sound banking sector through improvement of business standards, restructuring and consolidation, and increased competition. Improving corporate governance and management standards of our partner financial institutions will undoubtedly make our operations more effective in achieving our strategic priorities here, which are to support local SMEs, help develop the countrys non-oil sector, and to boost investment in the green economy, the head of EBRD in Azerbaijan said.

Nataly said that the cooperation with local banks and financial sector in general accounts for a visible portion of Banks annual business in Azerbaijan, alongside its projects in other industries and sectors of Azerbaijan economy. With the growth of the economy, its increasing sophistication and improving credit penetration, we are planning to further develop Banks engagement with the financial sector going forward in several directions, including expansion of the number of partners, capital market development and dialogue with the authorities on policies and regulations improvement, where relevant.

EBRD remains committed to financing the Azerbaijani banks. As we speak, we are working on several facilities in line with our main strategic topics such as promotion of international trade, support to MSMEs, and green and inclusive financing. As part of this effort, we are actively looking to extend the number of our partner banks in 2024 and beyond. Additionally, we are working towards supporting the growth of financial markets at the regional level, while increasing our involvement in trade finance, the head of EBRD in Azerbaijani Nataly Mouravidze concluded.

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22 January 2024 16:35 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Another batch of eggs from Azerbaijan has been imported to Russia in the amount of 306 thousand pieces, Azernews reports, citing Rosselkhoznadzor.

"On January 21, another batch of food eggs from Azerbaijan in the amount of 18 tonnes (306,000 pieces) was imported through the checkpoint "Yaraq-Qazmalar" for further sale in Russia. As of January 22, 3.3 mln pieces of food eggs were imported to Russia from Azerbaijan," the report says.

According to Rosstat, chicken eggs in Russia in December 2023 rose in price by 61.35% compared to the same period in 2022. At the same time, from January 10 to 15, 2024, their prices decreased by 0.2% compared to the previous week, for the first time since June 2023.

In recent times, the global fresh egg export market has seen a notable increase. In 2022, the total value of fresh eggs exported globally amounted to $2.6 bln, marking an 11.2% increase from the previous year. However, the dance of supply and demand has been disrupted by the avian flu epidemic, causing egg supplies to fall and prices to surge.

As Ernest Hemingway once wrote, "The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places." The global egg market may be broken by the avian flu epidemic, but it is in these broken places that new strengths are found, new alliances are formed, and new opportunities are hatched.

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22 January 2024 19:11 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Ferry "Ordubad," belonging to the sea transport fleet of Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company CJSC (ASCO), has returned to operation after repair, Azernews reports, citing ASCO.

Repair works were carried out at "Zyg" ship repair and construction plant. In particular, hull welding, pipe installation, and electrical installation were carried out, and pumps for various purposes were repaired.

The underwater and above-water parts of the vessel and the car deck were cleaned and painted.

The vessel is 154.55 m long, 18.3 m wide, and has a maximum speed of 15 knots.

This vessel, a proud member of the maritime transport fleet of the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company CJSC (ASCO), had been in the dry dock for repairs. Now, it was ready to return to the azure waters, ready to serve again.

The "Ordubad" is no ordinary ferry. It's a symbol of Azerbaijan's maritime prowess, a testament to the country's rich history of seafaring that dates back to 1858. Named after the town of Ordubad in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, a landlocked exclave of Azerbaijan, the ferry carries more than just passengers and cargo. It carries the spirit of a nation that has always looked to the sea for prosperity and progress.

The ASCO, also known as CASPAR, is the backbone of Azerbaijan's maritime industry. With a fleet of 98 vessels, including 35 tankers, 15 ferries, 14 universal dry-cargo, 2 Ro-Ro, and 35 different auxiliary ships, it plays a crucial role in the country's economy. The return of the "Ordubad" to operation is a significant event, a reaffirmation of the company's commitment to maintaining a robust and efficient fleet.

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22 January 2024 15:17 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

The Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall has paid tribute to the victims of the January 20 tragedy.

The blessed memory of the martyrs was honoured with a minute of silence, Azernews reports.

At the concert, the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra performed Johannes Brahm's "A German Requiem", a large-scale work for chorus, orchestra, and soprano and baritone soloists.

Composed between 1865 and 1868, the music piece comprises seven movements, which together last 65 to 80 minutes, making this work Brahms's longest composition.

The State Symphony Orchestra performed at the concert under the baton of the Honored Artist Fuad Ibrahimov.

The concert soloists were Honored Artist Anton Ferstandt (baritone) and laureate of republican and international competitions Fatima Jafarzade (soprano).

Thirty-four years pass since the 20 January tragedy, which is the symbol of the struggle for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Azerbaijani people.

On the night of January 19, 1990, the Soviet army opened massive fires from all available weapons at civil protesters in Baku, who were calling for an end to the negative developments in Karabakh.

As a result of the crime, 147 people were killed, 800 people were wounded and five people went missing. Hundreds of buildings were destroyed and citizens suffered huge material losses along with psychological trauma.

Photo Credits: Kamran Bagirov

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22 January 2024 16:56 (UTC+04:00)

Nigar Hasanova Read more

Azerbaijan will participate in the international tourism exhibition ITB Berlin Convention in Germany on March 5-7, Azernews reports.

The State Tourism Agency has already started preparations in this regard.

The event will be organised at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds under the motto Pioneer the Transition in Travel and Tourism. Together.'The exhibition is expected to have 24,000 attendees in 2024, spread across 4 stages with a total of 17 thematic tracks.

Each year, the ITB (short for Internationale Tourismus Borse) welcomes around 10,000 exhibitors from more than 180 countries and regions. Cities, tour operators, booking system developers, airlines, hotels, and other businesses concerned with tourism introduce themselves and their services and inspire wanderlust.

The ITB (Internationale Tourismusborse) is a story of success made in Berlin. Since its inception in 1966 with only five participating countries as part of an overseas import trade fair, the ITB has been developing into a worldwide success. With a total number of 180,000 visitors, the ITB Berlin is a centre of attraction for the tourism industry and influences travel experiences worldwide.

It should be noted that statistical indicators confirm that significant progress was made in the recovery and development of tourism in Azerbaijan last year. The number of guests visiting our country during the year exceeded 1,000,602, which means a double increase compared to the previous period. The number of incoming tourists is increasing every year, and this positive dynamic indicates that we will reach the set goals. By 2026, the number of tourists visiting Azerbaijan will reach 4 mln.

In fact, before the pandemic, the tourist flow to our country was a record 3.7 mln, which means that the intended result is real and possible to achieve. If the intended indicator is to be achieved according to the plans, total tourism revenues in 2026 will increase 4 times compared to 2021. This means that the total tourism revenues can reach 11.2 bn AZN.

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22 January 2024 10:17 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

The Azerbaijan Emergency Situations Ministry has addressed the population on fire safety in connection with the severe weather conditions in the country, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.

According to information reported from the Ministry, the cold and windy weather currently observed in the country will continue in the coming days, with wet snow and snowfall in some places, according to the National Hydrometeorological Service. The cold, rainy, and windy weather also poses a serious fire risk.

As these weather conditions lead to a significant increase in the use of gas and electric heating appliances, overloading the electricity supply and using faulty, substandard or home-made gas and electric heating appliances, carelessness can lead to fire as well as create a carbon monoxide hazard.

Therefore, do not use defective, non-standard or homemade heating devices, do not overload the electrical network, do not leave unattended working heating devices, store combustible materials and flammable liquids in the immediate vicinity of heating devices, use devices in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions (recommendations).

Also, given the difficulties associated with extinguishing fires arising in strong winds, fire safety rules in windy weather should be observed especially strictly.

Remember: Indifference to the rules is a danger to our lives!

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ended his fading presidential campaign on Sunday and endorsed Donald Trump just two days before the pivotal New Hampshire primary, leaving former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley as Trump's last long-shot challenger for the Republican nomination.

DeSantis' decision, less than a week after his deflating loss to Trump in Iowa despite an enormous investment there, caps a stunning fall from grace after DeSantis had been widely seen as Republicans' most promising alternative to Trump ahead of the general election in November.

His departure sets up the one-on-one battle that Haley has coveted against Trump, the former president who has maintained an iron grip on the Republican electorate despite facing four criminal prosecutions. Trump has pleaded not guilty in all the cases.

But DeSantis' supporters appear more likely to switch allegiance to Trump than to the more moderate Haley. In New Hampshire, about two-thirds of DeSantis backers cite Trump as their second choice, said Andrew Smith, director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center.

In a video posted on X, DeSantis endorsed Trump while delivering a parting shot at Haley.

"He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear: a re-packaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents," DeSantis said.

At a Sunday evening rally in Rochester, New Hampshire, Trump  who spent much of last year attacking DeSantis  praised the governor and said he was looking forward to working together to defeat President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee.

Trump accused Haley of forming an "unholy alliance" with liberals, never-Trumpers and RINOs, or Republicans in Name Only, to try and win the New Hampshire primary, and repeated a false claim that registered Democrats were allowed to vote in the Republican primary.

Trump holds a double-digit lead over Haley in New Hampshire, according to polls, and his campaign hopes a second consecutive win will make his eventual nomination all but inevitable.

He also has a commanding lead in South Carolina, which votes on Feb. 24. A Haley loss in her home state  where she served as governor from 2011 to 2017  would likely doom her campaign.

At a campaign event in Seabrook, New Hampshire, Haley drew cheers when she announced that DeSantis had dropped out.

"For now, I'll leave you with this: May the best woman win," she said.

David Kochel, a Republican strategist who has worked on five presidential campaigns, said DeSantis' exit was unlikely to change the basic contours of the campaign, given that his support had cratered.

"The race needs a big dynamic shift, and I don't feel that DeSantis dropping out is that big a deal as he didn't have that much going on in New Hampshire, and he didn't even have that much going on in South Carolina," he said.

Another Republican consultant, Ford O'Connell, who has ties to both the Trump and DeSantis camps, said he expected most DeSantis voters to "come home" to Trump.

"Without question, Trump is the beneficiary of DeSantis ending his campaign," he said.

With time running short, Haley has sharpened her attacks on the frontrunner in the final days before the election, blaming Trump for Republican electoral losses in 2020 and 2022 and criticizing his praise for authoritarian leaders.

Once a contender

Early last year, DeSantis was considered a top presidential contender and a natural heir to Trump due to his combative style and deeply conservative views. He led several head-to-head polls against Trump.

But his support had declined for several months, due to a flawed campaign strategy, his seeming lack of ease with voters on the campaign trail and Trump's so far unshakeable command of much of the party's base.

More than 70 percent of Republicans have a favorable opinion of Trump, according to most polls. That forced DeSantis to try and appeal to voters who still admired Trump, as well as those who passionately disliked him.

DeSantis failed on both counts. He never successfully articulated to most Trump supporters why he was a better option, while Republicans looking to ditch the former president split their votes among multiple candidates.

While many major donors threw their support behind DeSantis early on, they began to rebel as early as the summer.

Several DeSantis allies say the governor waited too long to enter the race, which left him open to blistering attacks by Trump, who had announced his campaign more than six months earlier.

When DeSantis did formally launch his White House run in May 2023, it was a glitch-filled disaster on Twitter, now known as X, an inauspicious start for a campaign predicated on the governor's executive competence.

The campaign overhired, burning through cash at a rapid rate, and then outsourced much of the traditional work of a campaign to an outside super PAC, which can accept donations of unlimited size but cannot coordinate with the campaign itself. (Reuters)
22 January 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Following the instructions of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the return of former internally displaced persons to the restored city of Fuzuli continues, Azernews reports.

Another group of former IDPs, consisting of 30 families or 106 people, left the Gobu Park 3 residential complex in Garadagh for Fuzuli on January 18.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Fuzuli, which were restored or rebuilt based on instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Fuzuli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Thus, until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Fuzuli has been provided for 440 families - 1625 people.

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22 January 2024 11:46 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

The American political scientist Brenda Schaffer spoke out against the plot of the TV and radio station "Voice of America," which made a story with the wife of the head of the illegal movement "Unification of Muslims," Tale Bagirzade, convicted of murder and mass riots, Azernews reports.

Professor of Naval Postgraduate School (USA) and member of the American Political Science Association Brenda Shaffer wrote in social network "X" about it.

"The American television and radio station Voice of America, funded by US taxpayers, is in favour of an Iranian-sponsored movement that has committed terrorist acts in Azerbaijan," Brenda Schaffer noted.

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22 January 2024 12:08 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

The process of normalisation of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia will be discussed at a meeting of European Union (EU) foreign ministers to be held today in Brussels, Azernews reports, citing the Russian press.

The High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, will make a report on the topic.

In addition, the ministers will exchange views on long-term military and economic assistance to Ukraine, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the EU mission in the Red Sea, and the 13th package of sanctions against Russia.

In recent years, two significant developments have unfolded under the banner of regional cooperation and normalization. First, during the Azerbaijan-Armenia normalisation process, there has been a noticeable inclination towards a more pro-Armenian stance from the West. Second, Western powers have expressed dissatisfaction with growing cooperation among the states in the region. During the ongoing process, the 3+2 meeting held in Iran and the subsequent agreement on a new road through Iran faced objections from the US. The paradoxical position to the Iranian-Armenian rapprochement in the period after Baku's 2020 Karabakh victory, coupled with Iran's decision to increase the previously agreed unfreeze of funds from $6 billion to $10 billion, raises questions about the sincerity and consistency of this policy.

The main expectation of the Western alliance is to exclude regional states and act as a mediator between Armenia and Azerbaijan. More precisely, to play the role of Armenia's guarantor in peace negotiations. In fact, Armenia clearly wants the West to play the role of guarantor.

While the EU and US were criticising Azerbaijan, Armenia postponed its response to Azerbaijan's peace offer for two months, and it was conveyed to Armenia in September. Azerbaijani President Aliyev stated that there are no longer obstacles to Azerbaijan and Armenia signing a peace treaty. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry declared that it is ready for direct discussions without a mediator.

Prime Minister Pashinyan and Armenia's foreign minister disclosed that the parties struck an agreement on three principles. The first principle involves mutual recognition of territorial integrity, specifying Armenia's territory as 29,800 square kilometres and Azerbaijan's as 86,600 square kilometres. The second principle is rooted in the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration, serving as the political foundation for border delineation between Armenia and Azerbaijan based on maps from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) from 1974 to 1990. The third principle, which focuses on the reopening of regional communications, is guided by principles such as sovereignty, jurisdiction, reciprocity, and equality among the countries involved. These are three of five principles offered by Azerbaijan two years ago. However, Pashinyan did not make any specifications on the unagreed-upon principles and later refused to discuss a peace agreement with Azerbaijan without the participation of a third party.

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22 January 2024 13:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nigar Hasanova Read more

The Ministry of Energy calls to speed up the appointment of energy managers, Azernews reports.

Appointed candidates are expected to be responsible for the efficient use of energy in economic entities with an annual energy consumption of more than 1,000 tons of oil equivalent, as well as in non-residential buildings with a construction area of at least 10,000 square meters or an annual energy consumption of more than 250 tons of oil equivalent invites the head of the economic entity and the owners of non-residential buildings.

279.0.3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Azerbaijan due to the non-appointment of the energy administrator. According to the article, a fine of 200 to 400 manats is imposed on individuals, on officials for 1,000 to 1,500 manats, and on legal entities in the amount of 2,500 to 3,000 manats.

The appointment of the energy manager is carried out by the Attestation Commission. The commission is formed by the head of the economic entity or the owner of the non-residential building, consisting of 5 people. One of the members of the commission should be a representative of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Applications for the submission of a representative to the Attestation Commission to appoint an energy manager are available at the Ministry of Energy's telephone numbers (012) 598-16-53/54/55, as well as the website www.minenergy.gov.az and the e-mail address [email protected] accepted through

It should be noted that the appointment of energy managers is prepared following Article 8.2 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On the Efficient Use of Energy Resources and Energy Efficiency" and approved by Resolution No. 436 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated December 8, 2022, "Requirements for Energy Managers", as well as the Rule on their attestation" is regulated.

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22 January 2024 13:41 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Russia plans to launch a new cruise route on the Caspian Sea in the summer of 2024, which will visit all Caspian littoral states - Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Russia. This route is part of the "Great Volga Way" project, Azernews reports.

This was stated by Dmitry Volvach, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia. At the moment, according to him, on the territory of the Astrakhan shipyard "Lotos," the construction of the cruise liner "Peter the Great" is underway, on which Russian and foreign tourists will be able to cruise on the Caspian Sea.

Russia and Kazakhstan are also working to develop tourism between the two countries, focusing on mountain resorts and cross-border tourist zones. The two countries are also developing a joint initiative to create an Eurasian Mountain Resorts Alliance.

It was initially planned to be called "Peter the Great", but recently it became known that the liner would be renamed "Vladimir Zhirinovsky", Russian media reported.

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22 January 2024 14:56 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

A 45-year-old Azerbaijani man carried several dozen children, old people, and helpless passersby across a river of boiling water in his arms, Azernews reports.

On January 17, boiling water rushed into the streets of the city of Novosibirsk due to a burst heating main. The steaming water filled yards and roads in seconds. It happened during rush hour, when children were returning from schools.

At that time, Rza Rzayev, an ordinary loader from the market who was returning home after a hard day's work, happened to be at the scene of the emergency.

"Everything was shrouded in vapour, nothing could be seen at all. People were standing in fear and could not cross the road. I ran to some kiosks and stalls, found pallets there, dragged them, and constructed a crossing. But people were standing there, afraid to go, and children were crying. And I had already checked this road. I ran up to the kids and said: "Don't be afraid, I'll save everyone. There are no strange children," Rza Rzayev said.

And then the man began to pick up younger children and old people in his arms and carry them to another part of the street.

"My gloves got wet, I couldn't feel my hands, but it was nothing. Tears were flowing through me because it was very scary, but you couldn't stop. I couldn't leave people in trouble, especially children. I have children, too. I also carried a teacher who taught my youngest daughter. All in all, I carried about 30 people in my arms," the man recalls his deed.

The saviour is sure that he did not perform any feat. But the news and photos of the hero instantly went viral on social networks. People in the comments admired the stranger's deed and thanked him for his help.

"I have been living and working in Novosibirsk since 2010. This is already my second homeland here. At first, my family was here too, but then my wife and daughters returned to Azerbaijan. They also saw these photos from the accident on the Internet, and my daughters wrote: "Daddy, you are a hero". This is the most important and valuable thing for me," Rza Rzayev shared details.

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22 January 2024 16:17 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

A commemorative event dedicated to the occurrences of January 20 was held at the initiative of Ali Tekin Atalar, the founder and head of the Azerbaijan House Culture and Friendship Centre located in London, Azernews reports.

At the opening of the event, the souls of the martyrs were remembered with a minute of silence, and the national anthem of Azerbaijan was played.

Ali Tekin Atalar stressed that the January 20 tragedy paved the road for Azerbaijan's independence and shook the entire Turkic world. He noted that the restoration of territorial integrity of Azerbaijan is a great historical event, and in turn, he assessed it as a victory for the entire Turkic world.

Speaking at the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Great Britain, Elin Suleymanov, noted that the persistent struggle of the Azerbaijanis for independence played a decisive role in the collapse of the Soviet empire. He said that he was studying in Moscow at that time and was a live witness to National Leader Heydar Aliyev's speech about the events of January 20 at the Azerbaijani delegation. He emphasised that the National Leader's speech once again showed that he is the leader of the people of Azerbaijan, added strength to the power of the people, and increased their confidence towards independence.

The diplomat also pointed out that, for the first time since 1990, the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan have been fully ensured. He said that loyalty to the state independence of Azerbaijan and protection of the state independence as the greatest wealth of the people is the main principle of the policy implemented by President Ilham Aliyev. It was noted that the biggest monument erected in memory of the martyrs is today's independent and powerful state of Azerbaijan. He said that Azerbaijanis believe that after many years of injustice, the souls of our martyrs are finally happy.

It was reported that representatives of many nationalities living in Azerbaijan were martyred by Soviet soldiers in 1990 as well. Azerbaijan is the homeland of all its citizens, regardless of their religion and ethnicity. It was emphasised that during the 2020 Patriotic War, all citizens of Azerbaijan united as one fist and liberated the lands from invasion.

At the end of his speech, Elin Suleymanov addressed the representatives of the diaspora and the students participating in the event and urged every Azerbaijani to spare no effort for the further development of the state and the strengthening of independence under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.

In her speech, Farida Panahova, the chairman of the British Azerbaijan Society, shared her memory about the appeal of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan, Lutfiyar Imanov, to the world Azerbaijanis in London during the events of January 20, 1990.

Georgian-born researcher Tamara Dragadze, who spoke at the event, noted that she was in Azerbaijan during the events of January 20 and closely followed the course of events. She talked about the existence of false ideas about Azerbaijan in the world and stressed that Mikhail Gorbachev, who is known as a "reformer" in the West, was the mastermind of the events of January 20.

During the event, British journalist Neil Watson also shared his impressions of visiting the Alley of Martyrs while in Azerbaijan.

After the processions, Azerbaijani folk music was played, and tributes were paid to the souls of the martyrs.

Another event dedicated to the January 20 tragedy was held at the British European Azerbaijan school operating in London. During the event, the students of the school sang poems dedicated to the history of Azerbaijan and the events of January 20.

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22 January 2024 17:16 (UTC+04:00)

Nigar Hasanova Read more

It became known that former health minister Ogtay Shiraliyev was suffering from cancer. Although he was treated many times in Germany and Turkiye, the tumour in his brain metastasized, Azernews reports.

The rapid development of the disease is associated with the fact that the former minister did not follow the recommendations of doctors and did not take this problem seriously.

The condition of the 73-year-old ex-minister, who is currently being treated in Turkiye, is said to be serious.

It should be recalled that on October 20, 2005, President Ilham Aliyev replaced previous minister Ali Insanov with Ogtay Shiraliyev. Within three months of his term, Shiraliyev reformed the medical services in state hospitals and received a 30% increase in state healthcare funding. The construction of new medical diagnostic centers and hospitals in regions of Azerbaijan became a priority. Ogtay Shiraliyev was dismissed from the post of Minister of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan on April 23, 2021, by order of President Ilham Aliyev.

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22 January 2024 17:44 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Ambassador of Ukraine to Azerbaijan Vladyslav Kanevsky wrote in his social network that a memorandum on cooperation (MoC) and mutual activity has been signed between the Azerbaijani and Ukrainian diasporas, Azernews reports.

A document was signed between the United Diaspora of Ukrainian Azerbaijanis and the United Community of Azerbaijani Ukrainians.

The ambassador said that the memorandum creates a solid basis for strengthening friendship between the two nations: "Also, the memorandum will contribute to the implementation of joint projects within the development of a strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Ukraine".

Recall, in accordance with the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan dated July 17, 2023, the next part of electrical equipment intended for humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine was sent from Sumgayit Technological Park.

It is reported that the humanitarian aid sent by a convoy of 25 trucks included more than 677,000 metres of electric cables and wires, as well as 22 sets of complete transformer substations.

We shall remind you that the first parts of the humanitarian aid worth a total of $7.6m were sent to Ukraine on October 30, November 21, and December 8, 2023.

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22 January 2024 17:57 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijani decorative and applied art has a thousand-year history and rich artistic traditions.

Shabaka, also known as stained-glass windows, take a special place in Azerbaijani art and history, Azernews reports.

Stained glass work known as shabaka are windows filled with colored glass, created by national Azerbaijani masters from small wooden parts without glue and nails.

This intangible cultural heritage has been used in the architecture of Azerbaijan since the 11th and 12th centuries.

The unique art form was widespread on the territory of Azerbaijan, especially in Shaki, Shusha, Ordubad, Baku, Ganja, Lankaran, and Nakhchivan.

Shaki Khans' Palace

Shaki Khans' Palace is a remarkable example of shabaka art. In 2019, the Historic Centre of Shaki with the Khans' Palace was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This majestic royal palace was built in the 18th century without a single nail, with luxurious wall paintings and openwork windows.

Stained-glass windows in the central halls and side rooms open on the facade. These stained-glass windows are a special feature of the palace's architecture.

The summer residence is renowned for its majestic interior. Large portions of the facade of the residence, including the entire southern elevations of the central halls on both floors, are covered by a mosaic of colored glass set in a wooden latticework (shabaka).

The interior walls of the residence are covered entirely with frescoes painted at different times during the eighteenth century.

Shabaka art in Shusha

There were numerous residential stone houses of the 18th and 19th centuries, decorated with shabaka, in the city of Shusha.

In the second half of the 19th century, Shusha turned into a cultural centre not only for Azerbaijan but also for the entire Caucasus and was distinguished by its architectural beauty.

Every Azerbaijani house has always had relatively large guest rooms, the design of which was given special attention.

In the 19th century, the guest rooms' design in Shusha included shabaka windows.

The windows in these houses, made in the shabaka style with multi-colored glass, were a source of special pride for the people of Shusha.

The notes of travellers repeatedly indicated that the large houses in Shusha differed from the houses of other Caucasian cities in their landscaping and design.

An excellent confirmation of this are the sketches of the Russian artist Vasily Vereshchagin, who visited Shusha in 1865.

Famous folk craftsmen like Mehdi Mehdiyev (19th century), Shahbuzla Abuzer Badalov (18th-19th centuries), and Abbasgulu Sheki (19th century) significantly contributed to the preservation of Azerbaijan's traditional stained-glass art

The revival of this art in the 20th century was facilitated by Abdulhuseyn Babayev (18771961) and Ashraf Rasulov (1928-1997).

Today, shabaka art continues to live thanks to talented craftsmen who astonish art aesthetes with incredibly beautiful stained-glass windows.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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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. (Reuters)
22 January 2024 18:06 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

On January 19, 2024, the newly appointed Ambassador of Canada to the Russian Federation, Sarah Taylor, paid a courtesy visit to the doyen of the diplomatic corps, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation, Polad Bulbuloglu, Azernews reports.

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan congratulated Sarah Taylors on her appointment and wished her professional success.

During the meeting, many issues were discussed, including the current relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Ambassador Taylor inquired about the situation in the already-ended Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict and what role Russia plays in maintaining peace in the region.

Polad Bulbuloglu spoke in detail about the history of the conflict, the long-term and fruitless negotiation process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the victory in the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020, as well as local anti-terrorist measures on September 19, 2023, during which Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty. He also spoke about the post-conflict period and the large-scale restoration and reconstruction work carried out in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan.

Ambassador S. Taylor inquired about the process of resettlement of the Armenian civilian population from the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan.

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan emphasised that the Azerbaijani state did not interfere with the residence of the Armenian population in the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from occupation. He provided detailed information on the possibility of reintegration of the Armenian residents living in the Garabagh region into the legal and socio-economic field of Azerbaijan, emphasising that the Azerbaijani state did not exert any pressure on the peaceful Armenian population and adding that some Armenians were forcibly evicted from their homes. The Azerbaijani diplomat addressed special attention to the fact that peace, stability, and security in the South Caucasus are possible only through the establishment of good neighbourly relations based on mutual respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of both countries.

Regarding the issue of Russia's participation in the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, Ambassador P. Bulbuloglu told the guest about the process of adopting trilateral statements with the participation of Russia on November 9, 2020, January 11, and November 26, 2021, as well as October 31, 2022. Also, despite some complaints, he noted the positive role of the peacekeeping contingent of the Russian Federation in ending hostilities and maintaining peace and stability in the region.

P. Bulbuloglu expressed concern about the position of Canada, which is under the influence of the strong Armenian diaspora, about the unrealistic, unfair and pro-Armenian statements of some politicians in this country regarding Azerbaijan. He asked the Canadian Ambassador to convey to his leadership concerns about the deterioration of relations between our countries.

At the meeting, which took place in an atmosphere of mutual understanding, an exchange of views took place on the processes taking place in the region and issues of mutual interest.

The Canadian Ambassador expressed gratitude to her Azerbaijani counterpart for an interesting and productive meeting and expressed hope for the continued development of relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Canada.

At the end, Ambassador Sarah Taylor was presented with a book entitled Karabakh: Before and After the Occupation, published by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

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22 January 2024 19:44 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

On 22 January 2024, the first meeting of the Organising Committee was held in connection with the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), the 19th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol and the 6th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement, Azernews reports.

Samir Nuriyev, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Chairman of the Organising Committee, noted that one of the national priorities of Azerbaijan's socio-economic development until 2030 is defined as "A country of clean environment and green growth", that Azerbaijan has committed itself to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases by 35% by 2030 compared to the base year of 1990, and that the liberated Garabagh and East Zangazur economic regions and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic have been declared a zone of "green energy".

Samir Nuriyev noted that declaring 2024 the "Year of Solidarity for a Green World" in Azerbaijan is an integral part of the purposeful and consistent state policy in the field of environmental protection in Azerbaijan.

Chairman of the Organising Committee Samir Nuriyev stressed that Azerbaijan constantly supports and contributes to international efforts in the field of environmental protection and global climate change.

Samir Nuriyev noted that the activities carried out in Azerbaijan against climate change are highly appreciated at the international level, and the unanimous decision to hold the regular 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Azerbaijan, which is considered one of the most large-scale and authoritative in the world, was noted, as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said, as a clear indicator of respect and trust given to our country at the international level.

Referring to the instruction of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to immediately start preparatory works for the COP29 meeting on 15 December 2023, the Chairman of the Organising Committee noted that all necessary measures will be taken to hold the event at the highest level.

Samir Nuriyev said that the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change will send a technical mission to Azerbaijan this week, preparatory works will be carried out in dialogue, and noted the need to assess the needs in all relevant areas in order to organize COP29.

Samir Nuriyev also noted that as a responsible member of the international community and a reliable partner, Azerbaijan has exchanged experience with the countries hosting the COP in previous years.

Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, COP29 President-designate Mukhtar Babayev informed about the work done to implement the assignments of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev related to COP29 and noted that in the process of preparation of our country for COP29 it is necessary to constructively cooperate with states, international organizations, international non-governmental organizations, civil society, local and international media and others and stressed readiness for cooperation and dialogue.

Then the reports of the members of the organising committee on the issues on the agenda were heard.

At the end of the meeting, instructions were given to the Secretariat of the organising committee, the president of COP29, the chief negotiator, the activities of the operating company, the completion of the action plan for the organisation and holding of COP29 and other relevant issues.

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22 January 2024 12:39 (UTC+04:00)

Nigar Hasanova Read more

Europe's demand for Azerbaijani gas remains unchanged on the agenda. The harsh and cold winter has caused an increase in gas import costs not only in Northern and Eastern Europe but even in Southern Europe. Meanwhile, Greece is of special importance.

Note that in November 2023, Greece increased spending on natural gas imports from Azerbaijan, Azernews reports, referring to the European Union's statistical office.

In November alone, Greece spent 64.2 million euros on gas imports from Azerbaijan, up from 57.7 million euros in October, representing a 11.3 percent increase.

Greece imported 158.3 million cubic metres of natural gas from Azerbaijan in November, compared to 161.7 million cubic metres in October, indicating a 2.1 percent decrease in import volume.

Over the first 11 months of 2023, the cumulative gas exports from Azerbaijan to Greece reached almost 1.8 billion cubic metres, with a total value of 808.8 million euros.

Azerbaijan initiated gas transportation to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor on December 31, 2020. The Southern Gas Corridor transports gas from the Caspian Sea region to European countries via Georgia and Turkiye, with a project cost of 33 billion US dollars. It is expected that the capital costs for the Southern Gas Corridor will be fully recouped within 810 years.

In July 2022, Azerbaijan and the EU reached an agreement to double the volume of gas supplies via the Southern Gas Corridor from the current 10 billion cubic metres to 20 billion cubic metres by 2027.

Recall that Azerbaijan is on target to double its gas exports to Europe by 2027, according to President Ilham Aliyev.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the Bulgaria-Serbia interconnector gas pipeline in Nis, Serbia, on December 10, President Aliyev confirmed that Baku will meet its promise to Brussels to double its gas exports to Europe to 20 billion cubic metres a year by 2027.

"The numbers already show that we are confidently moving towards this goal," Aliyev said, explaining that Azerbaijan exported just over 8 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe in 2021, which will rise to "about 12 billion cubic metres" for this year.

"This will account for 50 percent of Azerbaijan's total gas exports," he said.

To double gas exports to Europe, Baku has to both increase gas production and increase the capacity of the three transit pipelines that make up the Southern Gas Corridor, which carries Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to European markets.

Azerbaijan's gas production and export continue to grow.

Data released on December 13 shows production for January-November reaching 44 billion cubic metres, up 3.5 percent on the same period in 2022, with exports over the same period totaling 22 billion cubic metres, up 9.5 percent.

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22 January 2024 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Climate scientists say there is no realistic pathway for the Northern Territory to meet its 2050 net zero emissions commitment, as the NT government continues to sit on a major report detailing how high those emissions are forecast to rise, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

Despite the warnings, and the NT government's major expansion of the local gas industry, new Chief Minister Eva Lawler says the territory was "absolutely" on track to meet it's 2050 target.

"It's some hard work we'll need to do to get to that target ... we will continue to work hard to achieve that," Ms Lawler said at a recent press conference.

But given the scale of the gas projects in the Beetaloo Basin, Middle Arm industrial precinct and the Barossa gas field, analysts have told the ABC the government cannot lower the Northern Territory's emissions bill.

Early last year, a report backed by the CSIRO stated the Beetaloo Basin could be developed without adding to Australia's net emissions.

However, Dr Bill Hare, a climate scientist and chief executive of Climate Analytics, said the report, and the gas industry, had "substantially underestimated" the likely emissions that would arise.

"For the Barossa, because it's moving to a very carbon intensive gas field, we are looking at about 3.3 million tonnes a year from the project," Dr Hare said.

"For the Beetaloo Basin [and Middle Arm], it depends on the scale at which it's developed, but anything between nine and 49 million tonnes a year."

At its highest end, he said, that equated to 1.3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions emitted over a 25 year period to 2050.

"It's an absolutely staggering increase at the very moment in which we should be reducing emissions," Dr Hare said.

"Depending upon the scale of the development, the NT's emissions would be increased by 75 to 360 per cent [a year]."

The NT currently contributes just 3 per cent of Australia's total emissions  15.8 million tonnes in 2021.

Nearly half of those emissions came from the NT's two liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals, the Inpex and Darwin LNG facilities, which export gas mainly to Japan.

With new gas projects in development, Dr Hare said the Northern Territory's national emissions share was expected to grow from 3 per cent to about 15 per cent a year.

This, he said, would create significant problems for the country's legislated net zero target by 2050 and a 43 per cent emissions reduction target by 2030.

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22 January 2024 20:55 (UTC+04:00)

Georgia exported around 62,200 tons of wine to Russia in 2023, which is 10.9% lower than in 2022, according to figures provided by the National Statistics Service of Georgia, Azernews reports, citing TASS.

Georgia exported 62,280 tons of wine worth $168.3 mln to Russia in the reporting period, according to the service. In the previous year supplies totaled 69,900 tons worth $160.8 mln. The share of wine in the total volume of exports of goods to Russia amounted to 26.6%.

Meanwhile, supplies of mineral water, as well as carbonated drinks containing sugar, to Russia climbed 1.2-fold to 188,000 tons. Exports of cars amounted to 4,966 units in 2023, down by 7.9% in annual terms, with supplies of cars from Georgia to Russia in Q4 only amounting to 15 units (due to the fact that because of Western sanctions, the Georgian authorities imposed restrictions on export and re-export to Russia of cars produced in the US starting August 1, while starting September 26 similar restrictions came into force for cars supplied to Georgia from Europe).

Imports of goods from Russia to Georgia amounted to $1.74 bln in 2023, down by 4.9% compared with 2022. Oil and petroleum products account for the bulk of imports from Russia (31.6%). In 2023, Russia supplied 771,300 tons of oil and petroleum products to Georgia (+17.3%) worth $552.1 mln. Wheat supplies from Russia totaled 217,500 tons (+24.9%) worth over $48.6 mln.

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22 January 2024 21:25 (UTC+04:00)

Fifteen Georgian companies are participating in the international exhibition Green Week 2024 - the largest international exhibition of food, agriculture, and horticulture in Berlin, with the support of the Agriculture Ministry, Azernews reports, citing Agenda.

Georgian products showcased at the exhibition, which features more than 1,400 companies from various countries, attracting over 400,000 visitors, fully meet the standards of the European Union. Eight of the participant companies are beneficiaries of the state programme, the Ministry said.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Tengiz Nasaridze attended the opening of the Georgian stand, together with the countrys Ambassador to Germany Levan Izoria and the Director of the Rural Development Agency, Davit Tsitlidze.

Nasaridze noted that by participating in such exhibitions, the state was boosting awareness about Georgian companies and facilitating the international sale of agricultural products. He also noted that most of the showcased products were exported to Germany and other European countries.

In his turn, Izoria highlighted the role of participation in the exhibition as the best way to increase the export of Georgian agricultural products to the European market, including to Germany.

The Ambassador added that bilateral meetings, set to be held with various companies on the sidelines of the Green Week, would further enhance the promotion of Georgian products.

The Berlin exhibition Grune Woche, running from January 19 through January 28, has been held annually since 1926.

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Azerbaijan's tourism opportunities have been promoted in Kazakhstan.

An event themed "Azerbaijan's tourism opportunities" was co-organized by the Azerbaijan Trade House and the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in the city of Aktau, Azernews reports.

Aze Turizm Company, the Naftalan Medical and Health Centre, and the Naftalan City Executive presented Azerbaijan's tourism opportunities.

Welcoming the guests, the Consul General of Azerbaijan in Aktau, Elchin Mammadov, noted that such events contribute to the development of bilateral and regional relations in the field of tourism.

He hailed the relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, which are successfully developing in all areas.

Elchin Mammadov stressed the state's attention to the tourism industry in Azerbaijan.

The Consul General provided insight into state programs and various projects aimed at increasing the country's tourism potential.

He noted that citizens of Kazakhstan are among the tourists who visit Azerbaijan the most.

Head of the Azerbaijan Trading House, Rahim Sultanov, spoke about the activities of the trading house, its projects, and its achievements.

The head of the Aze Turizm company, Mehpara Mammadova, informed the guests about Azerbaijan's tourism opportunities.

Director of the Naftalan Medical and Health Centre, Ilgar Huseynov, and the head of the department of the Naftalan City Executive Power, Tamara Hasanova, spoke about the medical and health centres operating in Naftalan.

Videos demonstrating the country's tourism potential were also shown as part of the event.

Furthermore, the event participants enjoyed Azerbaijani traditional dishes and were presented with national souvenirs and promotional materials.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was visiting Kyiv on Monday, his office said, his first trip to the war-torn country since returning as head of government of one of Ukraine's most ardent EU supporters.

News of the visit came as the Kremlin blamed Ukraine for an attack on a Baltic gas terminal over the weekend, the latest in a series of apparent Ukrainian aerial attacks on Russian energy infrastructure.

The visit is the latest in a flurry from European leaders aiming to reassure Ukraine of their support at a time when Kyiv's biggest political and military backers have struggled to secure aid.

"Prime Minister Donald Tusk has travelled to Kyiv on January 22," his press service said, adding that Tusk would meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmygal.

Since returning as Poland's head of government in December, Tusk has said that the war in Ukraine "is question number one for Polish security".

He has also vowed to continue Poland's steadfast support of its eastern neighbour following Russia's invasion in February 2022.

"Other questions must also be discussed, notably those linked to interests of Polish truckers, so there are things to discuss in Kyiv," he said.

Drone barrage

Polish truckers blocked the border with Ukraine from November until last week, demanding the reintroduction of restrictions to enter the EU for their Ukrainian competitors.

The EU had waived the permits system after Russia invaded, but Polish truckers want it reintroduced, saying the move has hit their earnings.

Shmygal welcomed Tusk to Kyiv and they toured a memorial for soldiers killed during the conflict.

"We are grateful for the support of our partners who stand side by side with the Ukrainian people in this war," Shmygal said on social media.

Just hours before Warsaw announced the visit, Kyiv said Russian forces had attacked Ukraine with eight Iranian-designed attack drones but that its air defence systems had repelled the barrage.

Officials in Kyiv have said that gaining control of the country's airspace is a priority for this year, and urged the West to supply more air defence systems.

Ukraine's air force said Russian forces had launched the drones from the southern Primorsko-Akhtarsk region. It added that the drones had been downed by defence systems in southern and central regions of Ukraine.

There were no immediate reports of damage caused by falling debris.

The attack comes in the wake of several aerial assaults on border regions of Russia that have targeted oil storage facilities.

Sources in Ukraine's security sector have claimed responsibility for some of those attacks to AFP, but Kyiv and the Ukrainian military have remained tight-lipped on attacks inside Russia.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday however blamed Kyiv for a blaze over the weekend at the port of Ust-Luga near Saint Petersburg.

Frontline strikes

"The Kyiv regime continues to show its bestial face. They are striking civil infrastructure, people," Kremlin spokesman DmitryPeskov told reporters on Monday when asked about a blaze at the natural gas terminal.

Operator Novatek had said the fire was caused by an "external factor," without elaborating.

Even though the sprawling front line cutting through eastern and southern Ukraine has barely shifted in the last year, Russian forces have continued to pound towns and villages near the fighting.

AFP journalists on Monday morning saw the body of one person killed in a strike on the eastern Ukrainian town of Kramatorsk at around 7:30 GMT.

The strike rocked an industrial area on the eastern outskirts of the town in the Donetsk region, which the Kremlin says is part of Russia.

AFP reporters on the scene saw debris strewn on the street beneath an administrative building with a destroyed roof and windows blown out by the strike.

The body of a man killed in the blast lay at the wheel of his car  its front left door open  on another street next to the damaged building.

Police ushered bystanders from the scene, warning of a potential follow-up attack.

The regional governor said the victim was a 49-year-old man and that his 31-year-old daughter was also wounded in the attack. (AFP)
Cannon Beach's Monthly Nature Talks Explore Layers of Oregon Coast Nerdy Fun

Published 1/10/24 at 2:25 p.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Cannon Beach, Oregon) - Cannon Beach is smack dab in the middle of some of the most fun that beach fans and science nerds can have along the Oregon coast: the Nature Talks: Exploring Nature's Treasures Together series. Formerly the Haystack Lecture series, they always take place on the second Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m., now at the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce building at 207 N. Spruce Street. (Bull kelp photo Roy Lowe, one of the speakers for the festival)

Put together by the Friends of Haystack Rock, the Nature Talks are one of the Oregon coast's little treasures. Here is the lineup for the series, which runs through April.

The second in the series happens tonight, January 10 at 6 p.m. It features Hatfield Marine Science Center scientist Anna Bolm with a talk on Not All Who Wander Are Lost: Monitoring Plankton off the Oregon Coast.

Bolm, a phytoplankton ecologist at the Hatfield, delves into the microscopic world of plankton- wandering marine plants and animals. Don't let their small size fool you, plankton make up the largest reservoir of biomass in the Earth's oceans, fueling the food web from salmon, to sea birds, to humans and everything in between.

You'll dig into what plankton are and how we can track them to learn more about the animals we love and their changing environment.

On February 14, it's Katie Voelke and Angela Whitlock from the North Coast Land Conservancy (NCLC) talking about Living Amongst the Green Giants: From anemones to old-growth trees, a celebration of life on the Oregon Coast.

This coastline is home to some of the most immense life forces on the planet, with the Pacific Ocean and the rainforest coming together at the sea cliffs. That's why, Voelke said, the NCLC does its work in the region, protecting and caring for this rarefied place and its vast biodiversity. You'll get an evening of celebrating life among these lands and watersfrom the coastal prairies and wetlands to the peaks of the Coast Range and from the dynamic rocky intertidal to the expansive Cape Falcon Marine Reserve - and learn about the incredible impacts of local conservation by the NCLC.

Next up is March 13, where the subject turns to Shorebirds: Elegant Travelers on Long Distance Journeys. The speaker is Roy Lowe, formerly with the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

The talk covers the shorebirds we see on the Oregon coast in spring, summer and fall, which use the beaches and estuaries to feed and rest, a regular stop on their migrations. Shorebirds breeding in North America migrate extremely long distances to winter in the Southern Hemisphere on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Some individuals visit two or three continents during their annual journeys.





While shorebirds are very capable fliers their survival is dependent on international conservation efforts around the globe, Lowe said.

Lowe's photographs of regional coastal wildlife are rather legendary. His career also includes having been the Refuge Manager of the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

The final gig in the talks happens April 10, where law professor Chris Wold goes into Protecting Public Access to Oregons Shores - a subject that should be important to anyone who has ever visited these beaches.





Since the early 1900s, Oregon has granted public access to its beautiful beaches, said Wold. In the 1960s, however, that access was threatened when a Cannon Beach motel sought to privatize the beach in front of the hotel. The Oregon Supreme Court stepped in and, using a legal theory that has been used only in Oregon and Hawaii, guaranteed the publics access to beaches like Cannon Beach. While it is commonly said that the public has access to the entire 362-mile Oregon Coast, that is not true. This presentation reviews the history and limits of public access to Oregons beaches and new challenges to Oregons shores from climate change.

Chris Wold is a Professor of Law at Lewis & Clark Law School where he teaches Ocean and Coastal Law and other environmental and international law courses. He has represented governments at meetings of the International Whaling Commission, served as the legal advisor to the Convention on Migratory Species, and advised nongovernmental organizations at international meetings relating to tuna fisheries and biodiversity conservation.

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Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast.

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Under the cover of Covid, and now in the shadow of the infamous Election Irregularities of that fated 2020 presidential election, with current emerging alleged election fraud in Nevada and Pennsylvania inconveniently slipping into the public discourse, there is proved a colluded ongoing Election Interference in the nomination of the Republican candidate, the likes of which has never occurred in our Constitutional Republic's history, albeit, the question remains: Do you support the plain-sight Election Interference of the Democratic Socialist party, employing its minions in their Propagandistic Media, and their Two Tiered Justice System?

98.25% No, I do not support Election Interference; I am a patriot unto our Constitution.1.75% Yes, I do support Election Interference; the alternative, Donald Trump, to this mentally diminished president is far worse.0% "What, me worry" if elections are rigged?
A few days ago, I wrote an article entitled Is there Truth in Politics. This is a continuation of that thread.

Frankie Waters called the special meeting of commissioners to consider the request of Sheriff Hammonds and the School Board to hire deputies to provide School Resource Officer services. Neither the School Board nor the Sheriff can spend public money without the approval of the Board of County Commissioners. I thought I knew how the majority of the Commissioners would vote about the situation because of their knowledge about the toxic situation in the schools under the Coleman regime. I got fooled.

The enthusiastic Beaufort County staff prepared financial documents to support what Fake Frankie Waters wanted to do. There was a question-and-answer period. There was no discussion about future costs. There was a discussion about how the sheriff was going to recruit the 12 deputies for the schools. Sheriff Hammonds insisted, this could be done; even though there have been a minimum of five vacancies in the Sheriffs Department for at least five years. Hammonds was asked if he would offer positions to all the present employees of Allied Security. He said he would. This will be difficult because several Allied Security personnel do not qualify for employment as deputies.

Chairman, Fake Frankie Waters, did an unusual thing. He allowed every commissioner to ask as many questions as he liked of Sheriff Hammonds. This is unusual. Waters usually tries to shut down discussion when he has the votes. Recently, Commissioner Deatherage and I have given him serious challenges about his dictatorship of Board meetings. In my opinion allowing more time for debate on this issue is a part of the cover up for this back room deal.

I had eight questions of Sheriff Hammonds. Most had to do with the fact that the schools, by statute, are open only 180 days each year. What will deputies do during the rest of the year? Will the proposed Memorandum of Understanding include the guidelines for how deputies interact with school personnel? That is, will they be required to respect the wishes of school management.

Hammonds insists that he can provide 12 new deputies to fill the SRO positions in schools. Hammonds, during his question-and-answer sessions with the School Board and the County Commissioners, never said how he would fill these positions even though he has not been able to fill all these vacant positions to date. The implication before both boards is these employees will be full-fledged sworn deputies. Deputy hiring in the Sheriffs Department will be watched closely because, there is not a requirement that School Resource Officers must be sworn deputies.

This exercise in getting rid of Allied Security has been disappointing because no attention has been paid to future costs or improved services or the relationship between schools and deputies. We know about the more than $600,000 increase in this years budget. There has been no discussion about future costs. Figures presented to Commissioners during the Spring of 2023 gave me the impression we are talking about an annual increase of about one million dollars. There are about $700,000 in cars yet to be purchased for the twelve new deputies during the 2024-25 budget year. This is in addition to the $600,000 for salaries.

Had this exercise been conducted entirely in the open with public participation and without the time is of the essence factor, all of the benefits and costs could have been examined. There are at least five options. The first is to develop a program using only the grant for school safety given to us by the State. That is a little less than $400,000. The second is to keep Allied. Security. The third is to turn it over to the Sheriff using sworn deputies. The fourth is to do nothing using resources (and the $400,000) provided by the Center for School Safety which is funded by the State of North Carolina. The fifth is to develop a volunteer SRO program, using the $400,000 of State money.

It is a shame that a comprehensive study involving the public, was not done. There are a lot of holes in school security. RINO to RINO in the back room does not produce a good school safety program.

Providing school safety has been another exercise in bad management. This exercise has been majority driven by RINOs (Republicans In Name Only). The majority of the School Board are Republicans as is the Board of County Commissioners. These two groups are joined at the hip.

There has been no questioning of the annual school budget during the past five years. The Board of County Commissioners spends less than 30 minutes approving and considering this approximately 18 million dollar budget. I am sure there will be disagreement with this small amount of time. So, I will be charitable and include all of the time the Board of Commissioners spent considering the school budget and in joint meetings with the School Board. That would be a stretch to get to 10 hours. If this is the case the Board of Commissioners approved the budget at the rate of 1.8 million dollars per hour.

We have all of the problems in the Beaufort County School System that you may see on national television. These are; gender change, lack of discipline, new math, critical race theory, cursive writing, bullying, high priced socially unacceptable curriculums, huge expenditures for woke programs, on and on it goes.

Neither the Board of Education or the Board of County Commissioners is willing to address these issues. Again, the majority of the Board of County Commissioners and the Board of Education are Republicans. RINOs who spend their time running from the education problems.

The voters have an opportunity to thin or eliminate the RINO herd during the 2024 primary and general elections. School Board members Carolyn Walker, and Terry Draper have Republican primary opponents in the March 5, 2024 elections. Another three School Board candidates will be challenged in the general election in November. The School Board runs in Districts unlike Commissioners.

County Commissioners run at large. There are five candidates for four seats in the primary elections. RINOs Randy Walker and John Rebholz need to be replaced with conservatives. Conservative candidates are: Tandy Dunn, Steve Carawan and Hood Richardson.

Unless there are major changes in these boards there will be no change in schools or County government. Beaufort County continues to over tax and spend as well as provide poor management of our low performing schools. Beaufort County RINOs spent almost ten million dollars in a useless capital fund project for installing the internet in places where few people live during the past two years. That could have been a huge reduction in taxes.

If you want to change government, change the people who are running government.
The swing to the right among German voters has led to the split of the traditional conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU). The CDU has moved rightward on many issues including immigration since Merkel left office, but not far enough for the party's most conservative wing, the well organized Values Union. They are still miffed by the CDU not moving even farther on immigration and the CDU's continued reluctance to work with the populist / nationalist right AfD. The Values Union was organized in 2017 among CDU members opposed to Merkel's more liberal policies.

Meeting in Erfurt, the Values Union has overwhelmingly voted to split from the CDU and form a new political party of the right, which will take very strong stands against illegal immigration. The Values Union is led by Hans-Georg Maassen, former head of Germany's domestic intelligence service, who was drummed out of that service for his outspoken opposition to illegal immigration. Maassen said the party will be organized quickly so that it can participate in elections in three German states that are voting this year, and will be open to cooperating with the AfD.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/01/germany-turns-right-conservative-faction-christian-democratic-union/
A Chinese research laboratory has developed its own version of a "choke point" technology critical to the semiconductor industry, opening the way for domestic production, according to state media.

State-run Science and Technology Daily reported on Saturday that the Guangzhou-based research institute Bioland Laboratory had built the country's first transmission electron microscope, called the TH-F120.

The report said China had now mastered the "core technologies" for the microscopes and could mass produce the machines, allowing the country to "break" its complete dependence on imports.

The advance could give strong support to cutting-edge scientific and industrial areas such as materials science, life sciences and semiconductors, it added.

It also reflected China's rapid advancement in key technologies in the face of fierce international competition and U.S. curbs.

The microscopes send a beam of electrons through an extremely thin specimen to generate a high-resolution image, a technique that is central to developing new nanostructured semiconductor materials, according to AZoNano, a technology news site.

The Science and Technology Daily report said that compared with imported versions, the TH-F120's thermal emission electron gun generated "brighter and more stable emissions." The images were also highly detailed, it said.

In 2018, the newspaper, which is affiliated with the Ministry of Science and Technology, listed the microscopes as one of the 35 "stranglehold" or "choke point" technologies that China needed to develop.

Urgency about home-gown technology rose in the aftermath of U.S. sanctions on telecoms equipment producer ZTE earlier that year.

More sanctions have been imposed since, restricting Chinese access to semiconductor technology.

Major global players in the microscope technology include Japanese companies JEOL and Hitachi, as well as U.S. firm FEI.

China spent 3 billion yuan ($416 million) in 2022 to import 300 of the microscopes, Guangzhou Daily reported.

That year, the global market for the equipment was valued at $825 million, with projections for it to top $1 billion by 2028, according to an industrial report published last year.

Over the past three years, Bioland has been spearheading China's efforts to develop the technology and become the first Chinese player in the market.

Scientific and technological self-reliance has been one of Chinese President Xi Jinping's repeated policy themes.

On Friday, Xi renewed his call for "high-quality development" in a message to attendees at the National Engineer Awards, according to state news agency Xinhua.

Xi said he hoped the country's engineers and technicians would have the courage to make breakthroughs in core technologies in key fields, the report said.

Over the past year, the U.S. and its allies have stepped up restrictions on China's access to advanced chips and related equipment, citing national security concerns.

Read the full story at SCMP
But heres what few people realize: The intensity of our division springs from a federal government operating far beyond the limits of the Constitution  fueling a fight for control over powers that were never supposed to exist at the national level.

To put it another way, if the federal government were confined to its actual granted authorities, federal elections would be of little interest to the general public, because the outcome would be largely irrelevant to their everyday lives.

Americas founders drafted the Constitution with great trepidation. Having just escaped British tyranny, the people of the separate states that would comprise the proposed union were wary of centralizing too much power at the federal level, and thus sowing the seeds of a new tyranny.

They therefore set out to create a federal government to which the states delegated only certain limited powers, with all other subjects of governance reserved to the states.

Those powers  only 18 of them  are listed, one by one, in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. They include such things as the power to raise armies, maintain a navy, declare war, borrow money, coin money, establish punishments for counterfeiters and pirates, set standards of weights and measures, secure patents and establish post offices.

Reassuring those who were considering the enormously consequential decision of whether to ratify the Constitution, James Madison wrote,

The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite. [Federal powers] will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation, and foreign commerceThe powers reserved to the several States will extend to all the objects, which, in the ordinary course of affairs, concern the lives, liberties and properties of the people.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/americans-are-fighting-control-federal-powers-shouldnt-exist
The state of New York is planning to significantly shrink or close University Hospital at Downstate in New York City's Brooklyn borough, The New York Times reported Jan. 20.

Closing the inpatient services at SUNY Downstate will free up state funds to build an ASC, a new urgent care center and increase primary care, SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. told the newspaper.

The facility, New York's only state-run medical hospital, has faced low patient enrollment and an annual operating deficit of $100 million. There are neighboring medical centers, so the Brooklyn neighborhood would not be left without inpatient care, the report said.

Mr. King said the proposed changes will "strengthen" Downstate overall and lead "to increased care" in central Brooklyn, home to many low-income residents.

SUNY has "weathered years of financial instability and seen many of its facilities fall into disrepair, jeopardizing the viability of our hospital facility," Mr. King told told Becker's in a statement.
On the heels of financial pressures and workforce shortages experienced last year, many hospitals and health systems are continuing to face maternity service closures in 2024.

In rural areas, more than 200 hospitals across the U.S. have been forced to shut down delivery services in the last decade, while still expected to perform deliveries for nearly 1 in 10 babies across the country.

In fact, in a recent Becker's poll that asked healthcare leaders how concerned their hospital, health system or practice is with the rate of maternity cuts and closures, 51% of the 378 respondents said "very concerned" (Becker's has no insights on respondents).

Becker's has reported on the following hospitals ending maternity care in 2024, along with closure plan and transfer statuses:

1. The obstetrics services at Adventist Health Tulare (Calif.) are pausing on June 6 for an unspecified amount of time, the Valley Voice reported March 11. The pause could affect 23 employees. The hospital's emergency room will continue treating obstetrics patients and delivering babies on an emergency basis.

2. Scripps Mercy Chula Vista (Calif.) hospital, part of San Diego-based Scripps Health, is transferring its obstetrics care services and Rady Children's neonatal intensive care unit to its Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego campus. The change in services will affect around 135 employees at Scripps Mercy Chula Vista. Scripps is making efforts to find other career opportunities within Scripps and with its community partners for those affected.

3. Vineland, N.J.-based Inspira Health is shuttering the midwifery program at its Inspira Medical Center Elmer (N.J.) location in mid- to late April after assessing its maternity care's current landscape and internal operations.

4. Caldwell, Idaho-based West Valley Medical Center, part of Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare, is closing its labor and delivery and neonatal intensive care unit by April 1. The decision comes amid a decline in birth rates and challenges in securing consistent coverage. The hospital hopes to retain as many employees as possible by offering new career opportunities in other care areas.

5. Froedtert Menomonee Falls (Wis.) Hospital is shutting down its birth center and moving services to Wauwatosa, Wis.-based Froedtert Hospital and Froedtert West Bend (Wis.) Hospital by July 1 to continue meeting the growing community needs. No positions are expected to be eliminated due to the care shift.

6. Miami-based North Shore Medical Center, part of Dallas-based Steward Health Care, has closed patient care in its obstetrics unit, effective Feb. 14, a few weeks earlier than its initial March 10 planned closure. The cuts include the hospital's neonatal unit as well as labor and delivery. Staffing level challenges and overall business plan adjustments were part of the early closure decision, a spokesperson for North Shore Medical Center said in a statement shared with Becker's.

7. Adventist Health Simi Valley (Calif.) hospital, part of Roseville, Calif.-based Adventist Health, is ending its labor and delivery services and closing its neonatal intensive care unit May 8. The cuts stem from high costs, labor shortages, inflation and a 25% decline in birth rate at the hospital, according to an Adventist Health news release shared with Becker's.

8. St. Marys, Pa.-based Penn Highlands Elk, part of DuBois, Pa.-based Penn Highlands Healthcare, is closing its labor and delivery services on May 1 and transferring services to the Maternal and Child Center at Penn Highlands DuBois. "This transition only impacts labor and delivery; all other prenatal and postpartum care and gynecological services will continue to be offered at Penn Highlands Elk," Trina Abla, DO, chief medical officer of Penn Highlands Healthcare, said in a Penn Highlands Healthcare news release.

9. Mayo Clinic Health System's New Prague, Minn., site reportedly closed its labor and delivery services on Feb. 9 due to low birth volumes and physician shortages. The Minnesota Department of Health held a public hearing Feb. 6 regarding the closure.

10. Essentia Health-Fosston (Minn.) hospital shuttered its labor and delivery services, prompting a Minnesota Department of Health public hearing on Jan. 30. High-risk pregnancy growth, a decrease in birth volumes, and provider recruitment challenges were all factors in the hospital's decision. Fosston's city leaders are aiming to reclaim the hospital to keep services from closing.

11. Stafford, Conn.-based Johnson Memorial Hospital, run by Trinity Health of New England, has been denied its labor and delivery unit proposed closure. The denial from Connecticut's office of health strategy points to an adverse effect on the less wealthy, not saving patients money and a reduction of care access.

12. Smithtown, N.Y.-based St. Catherine of Siena Hospital reportedly closed its maternity ward on Feb. 1. The hospital, part of Rockville Centre, N.Y.-based Catholic Health, announced the ward's closure in late December.

13. A closure plan has been submitted for Troy, N.Y.-based Samaritan Hospital's Burdett Birth Center, part of Albany, N.Y.-based St. Peter's Health Partners, to the state Department of Health. The plan comes after St. Peter's received a cease-and-desist letter from the health department that ordered against closing beds or services at the center.

14. Troy, Ohio-based Upper Valley Medical Center, part of Dayton, Ohio-based Premier Health, shut down its labor and delivery unit on Feb. 29. A declined birth rate and physician recruitment challenges were factors in the center's unit closure decision.

15. Blacksburg, Va.-based LewisGale Hospital Montgomery, part of HCA Virginia Health System, will close its obstetrics services temporarily, effective April 1. Recruitment challenges for full-time OB-GYNs was listed as the hospital's deciding factor.
President Joe Biden forgave another $5 billion in student loans on Jan. 19, absolving 74,000 Americans of their debt.

In a White House briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that public servants  including nurses, teachers and firefighters  would be relieved by the motion. Approximately 30,000 of them "have been in repayment for at least 20 years but never got the relief they earned through income-driven repayment plans," President Biden said in a statement.

The Supreme Court struck down President Biden's student relief plan in June, arguing that it had not been explicitly approved by Congress, according to NBC News. The plan would have canceled up to $20,000 in student debt for approximately 43 million people.

In the wake of the court's decision, the Biden-Harris administration is "continuing to pursue an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible," according to President Biden's statement.

In total, President Biden's administration has canceled $136 billion in student loan debt for more than 3.7 million people, according to The New York Times. More than 43 million Americans still owe approximately $1.6 trillion in federal student loan repayments.
The State of New York is planning to significantly shrink or possibly close University Hospital at Downstate in Brooklyn due to concerns that include low patient volumes, a deteriorating hospital building and an operating deficit of about $100 million, The New York Times reported Jan. 20.

SUNY Downstate, part of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, is New York City's only public academic medical center, but "has weathered years of financial instability and seen many of its facilities fall into disrepair, jeopardizing the viability of our hospital facility," SUNY Chancellor John King Jr. said in a statement shared with Becker's.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has directed SUNY to develop a transformation plan to secure a sustainable future for Downstate.

"With the necessary investments, we know we can provide a world-class medical school experience to our students  with cutting-edge research and training facilities  as well as ensure that Brooklyn residents have the infrastructure they need to access high-quality, affordable healthcare," Mr. King said.

The plan would transfer inpatient care at Downstate to other hospitals in Brooklyn, including Kings County Hospital across the street, according to The New York Times. Closing inpatient services would lead to new funding from the state that Downstate intended to use to increase primary and urgent urgent care services and build a new ASC, a student center and an institute that studied health disparities.

Most of Downstate's patients  almost 90%  are on Medicaid, are underinsured or have no health insurance, and many of its employees could lose their jobs if the hospital is shut down. However, fewer than half of the hospital's available beds are in use on a regular basis, and Downstate's hospital faces an infrastructure crisis, such as routine floods and temperature control issues.

The plan to relocate inpatient services to other hospitals has been criticized by United University Professions, which represents more than 2,300 workers at SUNY Downstate.

"SUNY is calling its vision for Downstate a transformation, but it is anything but that. Let's call this what it is: SUNY is closing Downstate," UUP President Frederick Kowal said in a Jan. 19 news release. "If you moved the programs offered at my home campus, SUNY Cobleskill, to nearby colleges and turned the campus into a shopping center, do you still have a SUNY Cobleskill? Of course not. And that's what's happening at Downstate. If there is no building, there is no hospital."

While some workforce reductions may come as part of a transformation plan, a spokesperson for SUNY told Becker's that the system is committed to providing the same level of high-quality care to patients and improving access to care through the expansion of its primary, urgent and ambulatory care offerings as care continues to move from inpatient to outpatient settings. Patients in the community will also continue to have access to inpatient care at SUNY Downstate wing at Kings County.

"As New York confronts a healthcare workforce shortage and systemic inequities, we must make the difficult decisions to build a stronger future where SUNY Downstate can continue to be a valued resource for Brooklyn residents while equipping New York's medical centers with cutting-edge research and a pipeline of talented, diverse doctors and nurses," Mr. King said.
CIOs told Becker's the recent rash of IT layoffs at health systems isn't surprising given the financial challenges in healthcare, but that cutting on the tech side can be short-sighted.

"Each health system has a different set of circumstances that may be hard to see from the outside. Priority shifts and financial distress can happen quickly with limited options  these things happen," said Scott Arnold, chief digital and innovation officer of Tampa (Fla.) General Hospital. "With that said, technology is an enabler for lowering expenses through automation, so IT should not necessarily be the first place to cut in a financial pinch if value can be identified and delivered."

The spate of IT job cuts has included some of the biggest health systems in the country. It also marks a shift from the past few years, when CIOs struggled to fill all the roles they had openings for.

In December, Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente slashed 115 IT positions nationwide but told Becker's the move would not affect patient care (the health system has nearly 216,000 employees). Somerville, Mass.-based Mass General Brigham laid off about 20 digital employees as the "tools and technology used to reach patients and support our mission [continue] to evolve," the health system said. Cincinnati-based Bon Secours Mercy Health and Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Novant Health and also recently shed IT staff.

"Firstly, I believe these moves are a result of the continued pressure placed on health systems today to manage costs and do more with less. Secondly, they also demonstrate that IT is still largely considered a cost center," said Joyce Oh, CIO of Tampa, Fla.-based Moffitt Cancer Center. "There is a paradigm shift that still needs to fully manifest in healthcare where technology is viewed as a business driver, an enabler of new capabilities, a new channel for patient acquisition, and a toolbox that can bring about increased efficiencies and economies of scale."

Novant Health, for one, said it is moving some of its digital products and services to an "external partner." Other smaller health systems have also sent IT staffers to work for outside companies in recent months, including Providence, R.I.-based Care New England, Mishawaka, Ind.-based Franciscan Alliance, and West Reading, Pa.-based Tower Health.

Care New England, for instance, outsourced its IT department of nearly 160 employees to IBM spinoff Kyndryl to help with the three-hospital system's transition to Epic and Amazon Web Services.

"I think it's a trend," said Care New England CIO Tom Gregorio. "You're finding more and more organizations like mine wanting to focus their attention on clinical practice, their patients and that growth."

Tom Andriola, vice chancellor for information, technology and data and chief digital officer at UC Irvine (Calif.), said the moves reflect the pressure on margins at health systems mixed with the increased demand on CIOs for the latest digital and data solutions.

"The orientation toward newer technologies means you have to find greater cost efficiencies in your operational areas in order to have the resource capacity to devote toward innovation," he said.

IT departments also have an opportunity to ease financial pressures on their health systems, such as deploying artificial intelligence for automation, said Michael Restuccia, CIO of Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine. But he said healthcare is still waiting for the next revolutionary technology the likes of speech recognition, the introduction of which drastically saved time and reduced costs on the clinical side.

"Although promising, and many are evaluating multiple AI opportunities, it has yet to generate the results matching the hype," he said. "Time will tell if AI will mature fast enough to generate the promised benefits. Until then, many health systems are already on borrowed time and, as a result, will need to resort to further expense intervention."
Kearney (Neb.) Regional Medical Center has named an interim CEO as William "Bill" Calhoun departs for a new role with Providence.

Danny Van Ranken has stepped up to helm the 93-bed hospital, which is part of Lincoln, Neb.-based Bryan Health, the Kearney Hub reported Jan. 20. He joined the hospital in 2014 as its sole respiratory therapist and moved through the ranks, most recently serving as its vice president of clinical services.

Mr. Van Ranken took the reins from Mr. Calhoun on Jan. 3, according to the newspaper. On Feb. 12, Mr. Calhoun will begin his new role as CEO of the Montana service area for Renton, Wash.-based Providence.






Milford (Mass.) Regional Medical Center has adopted a new code of conduct policy that targets disrespectful behavior from patients and visitors.

The policy, which was announced Jan. 4, prohibits words or actions against healthcare workers that are considered disrespectful, racist, discriminatory, hostile or harassing. Those who violate the code of conduct may need "to make other plans for their care. For serious or repeated violations, future non-emergency care and visitation rights at Milford Regional may require review, though we expect this to be rare."

Examples of prohibited actions, according to the hospital:

Offensive comments about other people's race, ethnicity, accent, religion, gender, sexual orientation or other personal traits

Refusal to see a healthcare worker based on these personal traits

Aggressive or intimidating behavior, physical or verbal threats and assaults

Sexual or vulgar words or actions

Disrupting another patient's care or experience

"Being clear about expectations for behavior will translate to a stronger culture of respect and a safer environment for all," Milford Regional Chief Medical Officer Peter Smulowitz, MD, said in a hospital news release. "Although acts of aggression or violence are an unfortunate reality in today's healthcare settings, our code of conduct will help reinforce a safe and trusted environment that everyone should continue to expect at Milford Regional."

Milford Regional's policy has faced some criticism, including from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression in Philadelphia, according to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette.

"Better explain that 'disrespectful' eye roll if you want your chemotherapy," reads a statement from Aaron Terr, director of public advocacy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, according to the newspaper. "This hospital is outrageously trying to put an asterisk on the Hippocratic Oath. Patients have more important things on their minds than policing their speech for 'unwelcome words' or watching their body language or tone of voice.

"We've seen nebulous terms like 'disrespectful' and 'offensive' twisted to punish all manner of expression, but censoring individuals coping with their own health and mortality  and punishing them by denying care  is a symptom of a larger societal disease."

Milford Regional's code of conduct is "intended to establish an expectation of respectful behavior from patients and visitors in order to provide for a secure, caring and inclusive atmosphere throughout the Milford Regional system," according to the hospital release.

In a YouTube video about the policy, Dr. Smulowitz said if the hospital believes an individual has violated the code of conduct with words or actions, the person will have the opportunity to explain their point of view.

"We will always carefully consider your response before we make any decisions about future care," he said.

Dr. Smulowitz noted there is a similar code of conduct in place for Milford Regional staff and providers.

Worcester, Mass.-based UMass Memorial Health, which recently signed a definitive agreement for its affiliation with Milford Regional, also has a patient and visitor code of conduct, according to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. In October, the Connecticut Hospital Association announced it adopted a code of conduct policy for patients and families, which applies to 27 hospitals in the state as well as other healthcare settings.










McAlester (Okla.) Regional Medical Center is facing criticism for its debt collection practices, KFF Health News reported Jan. 19.

The public hospital and affiliated clinics have filed close to 5,000 debt collection cases since the early 1990s, suing many patients multiple times. The practice has led some community members to avoid the hospital when their family needs care, one resident told KFF.

Nationwide, most people sued in debt collection cases never challenge them, the report said. A 2020 Pew Trust study found debt collections cases are dominating civil courtrooms. Most cases are processed in small-claims court for under $10,000, and most for less than $5,000.

McAlester Regional Medical Center has been operating in the red for years, according to independent audit reports. Hospital CEO Shawn Howard said he didn't know the hospital took patients to court.

"I had to call and ask if we sue people," he told KFF.

Most of the hospital's debt collection cases are handled by Hackler & Hackler, a father-daughter law firm. They declined KFF's request for comment.

Editor's note: McAlester did not respond to requests for comment. Becker's will update the story if more information becomes available.
A Utah nurse has been indicted for allegedly distributing and dispensing morphine that led to a person's death last summer.

Earlier this month, Catherine Worman, 33, of Sandy, was indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly dispensing morphine that resulted in a person's death June 5 while she was working as a nurse at "a local hospital," according to a Jan. 19 Justice Department news release. Ms. Worman was charged with distribution of morphine resulting in death and was ordered to remain in custody pending trial.

During their investigation into the person's death, a second victim allegedly told Draper (Utah) Police that Ms. Worman "intravenously administered morphine to him without a prescription." The individual told police the morphine made him "extremely ill" and that he feared for his life as a result.

Ms. Worman is also accused of unlawfully obtaining Adderall and trading the medication, based on information federal prosecutors found on her cellphone. "Worman was also illegally obtaining prescription medications from another healthcare worker with whom she was romantically involved," the attorney's office said.

Draper Police are investigating the case. Ms. Woman's first court appearance on the charges took place Jan. 19.
A former employee has filed a lawsuit against Pittsburgh-based UPMC, accusing the health system of anticompetitive conduct that harms skilled nursing staff, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported Jan. 19.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court of the Western District of Pennsylvania on Jan. 18 and accessed by Becker's, alleges UPMC has prevented workers from exiting or improving their working conditions, suppressed workers' wages and benefits and increased their workloads.

"UPMC's mistreatment of its skilled healthcare workers is one part of an overarching anticompetitive scheme implemented by UPMC to acquire and exploit: 1) monopoly power over the provision of hospital output services and 2) monopsony power over the employment of hospital workers (including skilled healthcare workers)," the lawsuit states.

Victoria Ross, who, according to the complaint, previously worked as a nurse at UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pa., is listed as the plaintiff. Ms. Ross is seeking class-action status, which could include thousands of current or former UPMC workers such as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse assistants and orderlies. UPMC is a 40-hospital system with 95,000 staff members total.\

From 1996 to 2018, UPMC made approximately 28 acquisitions of competitor healthcare service providers, but the deals were done to expand the health system's market power and "at the same time that UPMC was acquiring these facilities, it was also reducing the availability of healthcare services within the relevant market," the lawsuit states.

It claims that from 1996 to 2019, UPMC closed four hospitals and downsized three others, eliminating 353 beds and 1,367 full-time and 433 part-time healthcare service jobs.

Additionally, the lawsuit claims UPMC used anticompetitive restraints such as noncompete clauses and "do-not-rehire blacklists" to keep workers from exiting; suppressing wages to sub-competitive levels while also reducing staffing and increasing workloads; and suppressing workers' labor law rights to keep them from unionizing.

"Each of these restraints alone is anticompetitive, but combined, their effects are magnified," the lawsuit states.

The complaint follows one filed by two unions in May with the Justice Department, alleging labor abuses and anti-competitive practices by UPMC.

Paul Wood, vice president and chief communications officer at UPMC, told the Tribune-Review at the time that there is no policy prohibiting an employee of the health system from being hired by another, and that staffing levels are based on the acuity and patient needs.

Regarding the complaint filed this month in federal court, Mr. Wood pointed to the health system's various benefits and support for the labor force. This includes raising the minimum wage to $18 per hour for its non-union workforce by 2025, the highest entry level of any healthcare provider in Pennsylvania, Mr. Wood said in a statement shared with Becker's.

He also pointed to UPMC being among the best places to work in all the regions it served throughout Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland "due to our wages and our above-industry employee benefits, which are designed to support our employees and their families."

Additionally, UPMC was the first health system in Pennsylvania to offer paid parental leave to employees who are new parents, Mr. Wood said, adding that the health system also offers assistance for child and old adult care services.

Another benefit he pointed to: Paid life insurance and paid disability benefits that he said "complement our affordable medical coverage. UPMC's employee health care premiums are often half what other health systems in the area charge."

Mr. Wood said UPMC also offers first-dollar healthcare coverage for employees making below $80,000, and it has "a robust, flexible paid time-off policy so our employees can buy and sell time-off benefits to fit their individual needs."

He also said UPMC provides careers that allow people to come to UPMC in entry-level roles, career ladders, support systems, and tuition assistance.

The complaint filed this month seeks damages and asks that UPMC be enjoined from continuing the alleged monopolies and unfair business practices.
The cast of a new psychological thriller written by Co Down-native Colin Bateman has been revealed as filming of the four part BBC series gets underway.

The Bangor mans latest project Dead and Buried will star Annabel Scholey (The Split, The Serial Killers Wife, The Salisbury Poisonings) and Colin Morgan (Humans, Belfast, Dead Shot) alongside Hope Street star Kerri Quinn.

Bateman, who is executive producer, said he is very excited" that the play is being adapted for television.

"It has been a fascinating journey from the original short story, to the one-woman stage show, and now expanded into an exciting four part drama, the Murphys Law creator continued.

"Although it has changed greatly, the actual conundrum at the heart of the story is universal and timeless  what do you do if you meet someone who has prospered after murdering one of your loved ones? Do you say something? Do you do something? How would you react?

Colin Bateman

Waj Ali (Carnival Row), Owen Roe (Vikings) and Niamh Walsh (The Sandman) have also been cast in the show which has been commissioned by BBC Northern Ireland and Virgin Media Television in association with All3Media International.

The Three River Fiction and Vico Films production is set on the border and will be shot in locations on both sides over the coming months.

The plot will follow Cathy (played by Scholey) who is standing outside a supermarket with her young son when she encounters the man convicted of brutally killing her brother 20 years earlier.

Ignoring the advice of her best friend, Cathy takes to social media, uncovering the successful career and family life Michael [played by Morgan] has forged for himself since early release from prison, while she grieved for her brother, according to the BBC blurb.

Re-traumatised by her past, Cathy instigates a clandestine relationship with the man she despises, embarking on a campaign of harassment and deceit.

"As Cathys obsession grows, dark fantasies of revenge and reality blur as she sets out on a campaign of psychological warfare to destroy Michaels life.

Morgan, who is also known for playing the title character in the BBC fantasy series Merlin, said he is delighted to be embarking on Colin Bateman's dark, funny and compulsive new drama.

"There's a brilliant team working on this and it already feels incredibly exciting, I can't wait for it to hit the screens and for it to pull viewers along its twisted path," he added.

Meanwhile his co-star Scholey expressed excitement over playing a wonderfully complex character and bringing her to life and to taking her to dark places with this brilliant team.

Actress Annabel Scholey to star in Dead and Buried thriller written by Colin Bateman.

"Laura Way is a director Ive worked with before and we have a wonderful shorthand, so its very exciting to be teaming up again for such a compelling story, she said.

Head of Commissioning at BBC Northern Ireland, Eddie Doyle, said hailed Bateman as the master of twisted plots and black comedy.

"We are delighted to have Virgin Media Television and All3 Media on board so audiences throughout the UK, Republic of Ireland and further afield can enjoy it when it hits our screens later this year, he added.

Anthony Nilan, Head of Content Strategy, Virgin Media Television described Dead and Buried as a confident, intense and ridiculously fun thriller and said he cant wait for audiences to see it.

According to Ben McGrath, executive producer for Three River Fiction, the show is a gripping edge of the seat noir.

Colin Bateman has threaded his usual dark comedy through the fabric of this intimate portrayal of grief and obsession and were thrilled to be bringing such a thought provoking story to the screen, he said.

Bateman (Murphys Law, Doc Martin) and directed by Laura Way (Maxine, Blood, The Holiday). It was jointly commissioned by Eddie Doyle, Head of Commissioning for BBC Northern Ireland and Sinead Stimpfig, Lead Commissioner for Virgin Media Television.
Belfast actor recalls carving out own path after getting boot from school at 16

Anthony Boyle (right) in Masters of the Air with Austin Butler and Callum Turner

Belfast actor Anthony Boyle has spoken out about the difficulties of coming from a working-class background and the effect it has had on his career.

In an interview with The Sunday Times, Boyle said that after he was expelled from school at 16 because of behavioural problems, he knew he needed to create his own opportunities if he wanted to succeed in the industry.

When he was 17, he made the short comedy, Pillow Talk, which can be found on YouTube.

I just wanted to create. I wanted to write. I got expelled from school aged 16 and I would go on the internet to look up Belfast male acting auditions. I showed up to everything I could, he said.

When I was younger, I had behavioural problems. If someone told me not to push the red button, I f***ing slammed it. I learnt to put all my energy into the craft.

The stars big break came after a role in The Lyric theatre led to a place at drama school in Wales.

However, he didnt complete the course and instead was picked to play Scorpius Malfoy in Jack Thorne and JK Rowlings play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End in 2016.

It gave him exposure and, more importantly, financial stability.

So many people in the arts do well simply because they are rich, he said. But its so hard for working-class artists to flourish.

He also recalled meeting Tom Hanks in a hotel bar in England before another day of boot camp on wartime drama Masters of the Air, which will be broadcast on Apple TV+ from Friday.

Hanks is a co-producer with Steven Spielberg on the series.

Boyle explained: Tom said to me, Ive watched all your material. I feel like Ive known you my whole life.

And I replied, Youre not going to believe this, Tom, but I feel like Ive known you my whole life too!

He has made so many war dramas and he talked about never resorting to sentimentality and always being present in a scene.

Anthony Boyle in Masters of the Air

Masters of the Air tells the story of the 100th Bomb Group of the US Eighth Air Force, which flew missions over Germany during the Second World War.

The 29-year-old plays American navigator Harry Crosby and shares the screen with Austin Butler, Callum Turner, Barry Keoghan and Fionn OShea.

Boyle immersed himself in the life of Crosby, who died in 2010 but left behind interviews and a memoir, A Wing and a Prayer.

Id walk around my flat doing his voice and his mannerisms. This guy was heroic. The loss of life from the 100th Bomb Group was insane: losing friends, losing brothers.

Boyle, who has become a regular on our screens playing historical figures, admits that he wasnt good at history at school.

He starred in the biographical film Tolkien about the author JRR Tolkien, and in BBC drama Danny Boy he played a soldier accused of war crimes in Iraq.

In Manhunt, about the murder of US President Abraham Lincoln, he plays his killer John Wilkes Booth.

The drama will be released in March, also on Apple TV+.

I wasnt good at history at school, but I become obsessed with it at work, Boyle said.

I want to know everything about the period the drama is set in. I get entrenched in it. When I played Booth, I was riding horses and hanging out with cowboys.

Meanwhile, Boyle returns to the London stage in March for the play Long Days Journey into Night, by Eugene ONeill.

He describes his character, Edmund Tyrone, as an alcoholic who has tuberculosis  another laugh-a-minute project.

He is sharing the stage with Brian Cox and added: Like everyone else, I watched him in Succession. Ive looked up to him for so long. Im very lucky.

Masters of the Air airs this Friday on Apple TV+. Long Days Journey into Night is at Wyndhams Theatre, London, from March 19 to June 8
Duane Keffe D Davis, who is accused of orchestrating the 1996 slaying of hip-hop music icon Tupac Shakur (Rachel Aston/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP)

A former Los Angeles-area gang leader jailed in Las Vegas over the 1996 killing of hip-hop music icon Tupac Shakur has hired a private lawyer who pointed to what he expects will be a historic murder trial.

Duane Keffe D Davis dismissed court-appointed lawyers and hired veteran criminal defence lawyer Carl Arnold, who said in a statement that his office is honoured by the opportunity to represent Mr Duane Davis in what will be one of the most historic trials of the century.

We look forward to Mr Davis being found not guilty at the conclusion of his trial, the statement said, adding that Davis anticipates posting bail so he can help prepare his defence.

Robert Arroyo, one of Daviss former lawyers from the Clark County special public defenders office, said on Monday that he and co-counsel Charles Cano wish Davis well and referred questions to Mr Arnold.

Mr Arnold has served during public fatality reviews as representative of relatives of people killed by police.

Rapper Tupac Shakur was shot dead (Frank Wiese/AP)

He has also been sanctioned twice by the Nevada State Bar during 20 years of practice.

One, in 2018, was for failing to properly file documents in a defendants appeal to the state Supreme Court.

The other, in 2021, was for failing to represent a defendant in Las Vegas Justice Court.

Each time, Arnold received a written reprimand and was fined 1,500 US dollars.

Davis, 60, and originally from Compton, California, is the only person still alive who was in the car from which shots were fired in the September 1996 shooting that killed Shakur and wounded rap mogul Marion Suge Knight.

Knight is serving 28 years in a California prison for an unrelated fatal shooting in the Los Angeles area in 2015.

Davis has for many years described his role in Shakurs killing, although his defence lawyers have argued his accounts accentuated violence to attract viewers and make money.

Prosecutors say Davis incriminated himself as shot-caller in Shakurs slaying during accounts to a joint federal and Los Angeles Police Department task force in 2008; to Las Vegas police in 2009; in an interview for a BET documentary in 2017; in his own tell-all book in 2019; and in more recent interviews.

Mr Arnold said his client cannot be convicted solely on the basis of his confession and that prosecutors will have to provide corroborating evidence to prove Daviss guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Davis was indicted by a grand jury in Las Vegas and arrested in September outside his home in suburban Henderson. He has pleaded not guilty and remains jailed on 750,000 dollar (590,087) bail ahead of a February 20 status check in the case.

If he posts bail, Davis will be on house arrest with strict electronic monitoring. It was not immediately clear if changing lawyers will delay his current trial date of June 3.

Davis maintains he was given immunity from prosecution in 2008 by an FBI and Los Angeles police task force investigating the killings of Shakur in Las Vegas and rival rapper Christopher Wallace, known as The Notorious BIG or Biggie Smalls, six months later in Los Angeles.

Mr Arroyo and Mr Cano argued that police and prosecutors could have arrested Davis 15 years ago but did not, that he is in poor health after battling cancer, which is in remission, and that he would not flee to avoid trial.

His former lawyers also noted that prosecutors do not have the gun and the car involved in the Shakur shooting, and they downplayed the credibility of former gang members as witnesses against Davis.
The Government has set out reforms to help bolster public confidence in the BBCs impartiality and complaints system (PA)

The regulator Ofcom could gain enforcement action over BBC News website articles it does not believe meet relevant broadcast standards in new government reforms aimed at improving impartiality at the corporation.

Currently, the communications regulator is only able to issue an opinion on the matter, but Government recommendations say Ofcom will be given increased oversight over the BBCs online public services, including its news site and YouTube channel.

The Government said its recommendations, which focus on increasing public confidence in the BBCs impartiality and complaints system, are expected to be implemented in a timely manner, following talks with the BBC and Ofcom.

The Government-approved regulator, which has authority over TV, radio and video-on-demand services through a broadcasting code, has also been given a new legally binding responsibility to review more of the BBCs complaints decisions.

The new reforms are outlined in the first Mid-Term Review, published by the Government on Monday, introduced by the 11-year BBC Royal Charter, which forms the constitutional basis of the corporation and makes clear its public purpose.

Alongside the Ofcom reforms is a legal responsibility for the BBC Board to actively oversee its own complaints process.

The review also recommends that the BBC considers how diversity and opinion could be better represented as the Government says some audience groups, including disabled viewers and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, feel underrepresented by the corporation.

Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said the corporation needs to adapt to the reforms or risk losing the trust of the audience it relies on.

The BBCs complaints process, called BBC First, was introduced at the last Charter Review in 2017, and the Mid-Term Review has concluded that it does allow licence fee payers to hold the BBC directly accountable, but said impartiality continues to be an ongoing issue for audiences.

Under BBC First, audience complaints are normally addressed by the corporation before they can be escalated to Ofcom.

To improve the complaints process, the BBC Board, which previously had a responsibility to oversee only the establishment of a complaints handling process, will now oversee the process as a whole.

BBC Broadcasting house in central London (PA)

Non-executive board directors and external advisors on the BBCs Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee will also be given greater powers to scrutinise and challenge BBC senior managements complaint handling.

Furthermore, the job role which has responsibility for complaints handling will now report directly to the director-general rather than the director responsible for editorial policy, to separate pre-broadcast editorial policy and post-broadcast complaints resolution.

The review has also recommended the BBC develops a public strategy that outlines its intended partnerships with others and said the impact of commercial changes, including the introduction of a BBC Commercial Board in 2022, needs to be closely monitored.

Ms Frazer said: The Government wants to see a strong, independent BBC that can thrive in the years to come as a major contributor to the nations successful creative industries.

In a rapidly changing media landscape the BBC needs to adapt or risk losing the trust of the audiences it relies on.

Following constructive conservations with the BBC and Ofcom, we have recommended reforms that I believe will improve accountability while boosting public confidence in the BBCs ability to be impartial and respond to concerns raised by licence fee payers.

These changes will better set up the BBC to ask difficult questions of itself, and make sure Ofcom can continue to hold the broadcaster to account. We all rely on the BBC being the best it can be and this review will help ensure that is what the British public gets.

A BBC spokesperson said: The Mid-Term Review was designed to look at the BBCs governance and regulation. Were pleased the Governments findings reflect that overall these are working well.

With regard to the BBCs impartiality, no other organisation takes its commitment to impartiality more seriously. We have well-established and detailed plans to sustain and further improve standards. We know this matters to audiences and the BBC continues to be the number one source for trusted news, with the highest scores for impartiality and accuracy.

During discussions over the Mid-Term Review, we proposed and implemented a number of reforms, including strengthening our complaints procedures, which now form part of the conclusions. We are pleased the Government has fully taken our proposals onboard. We remain committed to continuous improvement to ensure we deliver for all licence fee payers.

The BBC is operationally and editorially independent and we will continue to engage constructively with Government, and our regulator Ofcom, over the second half of this Charter and as we look ahead to a new Charter in 2028.
A woman was also awarded 185,000 for beatings and humiliation she endured at the same home during the 1970s

The family of a man who was physically and sexually abused at a Belfast childrens home are to receive 250,000 in damages, a High Court judge has ruled.

Mr Justice Simpson said the late John McGuinness life had been blighted by the treatment he suffered as a boy staying in Nazareth Lodge.

He also awarded 185,000 to a woman from the city for the beatings and humiliation she endured at the same home during the 1970s.

Patricia McClarnon, 59, said staff made her bathe in barely diluted disinfectant, rubbed her face in soiled bed linen and forced her to remain alone in a darkened storeroom.

Separate actions were taken against the Sisters of Nazareth religious order, who ran the facilities on the Ravenhill Road.

Read more NI care worker struck off after he sexually assaulted a blind woman

Abuse of John McGuinness

Mr McGuiness spent two years in the home after being taken there in 1970 at the age of seven.

He claimed a number of nuns assaulted him, including one sister who used her knuckles to inflict blows.

Other beatings involved the use of a wooden clog, threats and warnings of further punishment if he told his mother or anyone else about what was happening to him.

He further alleged that a handyman who worked at the premises subjected him to regular sexual assaults in the toilets.

Although Mr McGuinness died in 2020 at the age of 59, the lawsuit was taken on by his daughter Lindsay ONeill.

Abuse of Patricia McClarnon

In a related case, the court heard Ms McClarnon suffered a catalogue of abuse over the years she spent at the home.

As well as being regularly humiliated in front of other residents for wetting the bed, she said any toys or food meant as gifts for her were never passed on by staff.

At Christmas parties, presents given to the children were taken from them once visitors had left.

One lay member of staff was specifically identified for meting out abuse to Ms McClarnon, according to her statement of claim.

She was beaten every day, sometimes with a stick, and repeatedly put into either scalding or freezing cold baths.

Ms McClarnon described the food at the home as terrible, and if she didnt eat what was given to her it would be re-served the following day.

Children were warned not to say anything to anyone about what was happening at the home but, as she put it, Who was going to believe me if I told?

She said her experience at Nazareth Lodge has left her completely drained.

Both actions involved claims for negligence, assault, and battery and trespass to the person, based on failures to ensure the safety of children in care.

Defendants response

The defendants denied the extent of personal injuries, and argued that the form of alleged corporal punishment when Mr McGuinness was a resident had been appropriate and commensurate to the accepted educational practices.

It was also contended that the claims should be statute barred on grounds of delay.

Judges comments

But identifying no prejudice, Mr Justice Simpson held that liability had been established in each case.

I am satisfied that Mr McGuinness was subject to physical and sexual abuse while in the care of the defendants, he said.

Awarding 250,000 in damages to his estate, the judge added: It is clear that the entirety of his life post-care was significantly blighted by what had happened to him while in the care of the Defendants.

He confirmed that Ms McClarnon is to receive a total pay-out of 185,000 for the physical and emotional abuse she suffered, along with its psychological impact.

Mr Justice Simpson pointed out: Among other insults to pride and dignity which she complained of were being forced to bathe in water with disinfectant, leaving her with strong memories of the smell and the deliberate and repeated humiliation of her in front of others for having wet the bed - quite the antithesis of the concept of Christian love which the defendants would have said they espoused.

Solicitors statement

The solicitor representing both victims declared the judgment as a full vindication of their decisions to go to trial.

Claire McKeegan, of Phoenix Law, said outside court: It is important for survivors of abuse to be believed and put the shame of these matters back to the Church institutions who failed them.

It is evident that the High Court in making these rulings and significant awards recognise the severe damage, pain and suffering caused by physical, emotional and sexual child abuse.
A Northern Ireland care worker who sexually assaulted a blind and bedbound woman in her own home has been struck-off.

David Moxon was issued with a removal order following a NI Social Care Councils Fitness to Practice hearing which was told he worked for Kingdom Healthcare at the time of the assault of the woman who was in his care.
The hearings were held at Laganside Courthouse in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA)

A coroner is to examine the hospital deaths of a number of patients who were treated by neurologist Dr Michael Watt.

Coroner Joe McCrisken held a number of pre-inquest reviews at Laganside Courthouse on Monday, where he said he would seek to obtain notes and documents relating to the care provided by the neurologist  who was at the centre of Northern Irelands largest ever patient recall.

In 2018, more than 4,000 of Dr Watts patients attended recall appointments amid concerns over his clinical practice.

There have been a number of inquiries into the clinical practice of the neurologist, and the PSNI is currently carrying out an investigation.

Last year he was struck off the medical register after a tribunal found his fitness to practise was currently impaired and that his professional performance was unacceptable.

The inquest process follows a review of the cases of a number of deceased patients of Dr Watt carried out by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA).

Mr McCrisken held reviews in the cases of four patients of Dr Watt who had died in hospital.

The coroner said he would be seeking relevant notes and documents from GPs and relevant health trusts in all the cases.

He added: There is an issue in terms of Dr Watts ability or fitness to attend potentially in a hearing of this inquest. That is because of various medical reports.

That will be a matter I will have to determine afresh. I determine if he is a witness to the inquest.

Regarding the PSNI probe, the coroner said: The question as to whether the inquest can proceed alongside a police investigation will be perhaps determined by the scope of the inquest.

I will seek an update from the police. The police have the power to request that I adjourn an inquest if an individual is to be prosecuted with a series of offences.

Dr Michael Watt previously worked at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (Liam McBurney/PA)

Mr McCrisken said he would review the cases again later in the year.

In November, detectives launched an investigation into the clinical practices of Dr Watt and an appeal has been made for former patients to come forward.

Dr Watt worked for the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, and also held private clinics at Hillsborough Private Clinic and the Ulster Independent Clinic.
Broadcaster Holly Hamilton presented BBC Radio Ulster's The Nolan Show from Manchester on Monday morning after her flight from London to Belfast was diverted.

The TV presenter from Northern Ireland said she experienced a "terrifying" attempt to land at Belfast City Airport amid Storm Isha and admitted on the programme that she "nearly grabbed the hand of some poor strange man" during the flight.

"I'm actually broadcasting from Manchester this morning," she said, adding that it was a choice for airline staff between going back to London, Manchester or Basel in Switzerland "which would have been nice".

"Alas, I'm not broadcasting from the side of a mountain with some Swiss chocolate," she said.

"I called home, they've not got electricity in the house, so I don't know who is in the worst boat or plane," she said.

On Sunday, Holly said her flight from Heathrow "gave up trying to land" and was on the way to Manchester. "Not sure how much better the weather is there but hopefully stand a better chance," she said on social media. Other flights have been diverted across Europe (Paris might have been nice though).

Later, she said: "Were still on the tarmac but theyve just informed us were staying in Manchester for the night (as expected). However, due to the volume of passengers in the same boat (or plane) they cant help anyone with accommodation or alternative flights. Every man and woman for themselves."

In another post, she said she was "here for the night".

"Not sure what the plan for the return leg is - airport staff informed us our plane has to get fixed first BECAUSE IT WAS DAMAGED IN THE ORDEAL. Thank you to the captain for not sharing that little titbit of information while we were mid air," she said.

Holly, whose husband is fellow BBC presenter Conor Phillips, is filling in for Stephen Nolan on the radio programme which broadcasts from 9am until 10.30am weekdays.

The Co Down woman is a familiar face on our screens and co-hosts the Sunday Morning Live show on BBC One.

Holly and Conor welcomed their first child together, a boy named Fionn, in 2021.
Loyalist activist on his admiration for ex-Taoiseach, his criticisms of current Irish Government and why hed never accept unity

Jamie Bryson has said he could live with a deal with some fuzzy edges if it came from the likes of former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern as opposed to engaging with the current leaders of the Irish Government.

Speaking to the Irish Times, the loyalist activist said of Ahern: You could shake his hand and look him in the eye and know he is not going to do you over.

Bryson was critical of what he described as the hostile and aggressive Irish Government led by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney.

He said: I feel that, as an anti-agreement unionist, I could live with a deal with some fuzzy edges with the likes of [former Taoiseach] Bertie Ahern.

Bryson told of how unionism and loyalism previously had a fantastic relationship with the Irish Government, the McAleeses (former president Mary and her husband Martin), as well as with former Taoiseach Enda Kenny and even to a degree Tanaiste Micheal Martin.

However, he claimed Varadkar has undermined that rapprochement.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern

Bryson said he was infuriated by the absolutely appalling move by the Taoiseach to show a copy of an Irish Times article to fellow leaders at the EU summit in 2018 to illustrate his concern that a hard North-South border could trigger a return to violence.

The report related to an IRA bomb attack at a customs post in Newry in 1972 that left nine people dead.

This was suggesting a land border may prompt a return to republican violence and, Bryson contends, the corollary of that proposition was that an Irish Sea border could precipitate a return to loyalist paramilitary violence.

If the threat of violence is good enough to prevent a land border, why ought not the same to be applied to the preventing of a sea border?

And that is a very dangerous precedent, he said.

Bryson added in the interview that he is determined to prevent the doomsday scenario of a united Ireland.

I think for 25 years theres been a combat in which unionism hasnt bothered to get on the battlefield and has sat back constantly trying to placate and appease nationalists.

I think its about time that unionism took the gloves off, he said.

On recent documents unearthed by the Irish News at the end of last year which showed payments to Bryson for appearances on BBC Radio Ulsters The Nolan Show, he said that the attacks mainly come from a liberal elite and supremacist nationalists.

He said: If anybody goes and does the stats, I am on Nolan significantly less than nationalist or republican contributors who are on consistently without any complaint from anybody.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (Niall Carson/PA)

Bryson said some in the media want to shut down working-class, particularly loyalist or anti-agreement unionist views because it is an impediment to their political objective.

Unionism and loyalism have become so demonised in a sense that we ought not even to have a voice, he said.

And, in the event of a border poll resulting in a united Ireland, he said he would not accept the result. He also believes any potential poll is decades away.

Who knows what the context of the time would be?... But no, I would never accept a united Ireland.

When asked whether he would fight any result in favour of Irish unity, he replied: Everybody is shaped by the context which prevails at the time, so you cant answer hypothetical questions like that.
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:
Garry Jennings keeping the lights on for customers at the Mayfly during Storm Isha

A Co Fermanagh bar and restaurant has opened its doors to help people in the community still left without electricity after finding a unique way to keep the doors open during Storm Isha on Sunday night.

After suffering a power cut during the storm, Garry Jennings, owner of the Mayfly Bar and Restaurant in Kesh, parked his car facing the windows of the pub and used the headlights to illuminate the front bar  much to the delight of his customers.

"Id just left to go and feed some cattle, and I noticed when I was coming back into the town that all the power was off, he told the Belfast Telegraph.

"I knew when I left the bar there were ones in it, so I came down the main street, put the lights in through the window and let them drink away until closing time.

"They didnt know what it was; I think they thought it was the police coming at the start, but we were within the trading hours so we were okay!

Read more NI braces for yet another storm after Isha kills one man and causes widespread disruption

"We had no candles on standby, because it kind of took us a bit by surprise, but we got the fire lit and they drank here until closing time last night.

Customers inside the bar were happy with the makeshift lighting arrangements

"There was no point in going home because nobody had electric within about 15 miles, so then I left them all home after closing time.

With many homes in the area still without power on Monday, Mr Jennings  an Irish Tarmac-winning rally driver  said the pub opened its doors to help those still unconnected.

"We woke up this morning and still had no electricity until after lunch time. Some of the residents still didnt have it so we got on the fryer and are making them some hot food, he said.

"They are charging their mobile phones and stuff. Some people in the town have small children so theyre in collecting hot water to make bottles.

"We have big freezers too, because we have a restaurant, so we are letting people put all their stuff into those freezers. The community has to come together when things like this happen.
Faisal Noor (16) has been located safe and well.

Police thanked everyone for their assistance in locating the teenager, who was last seen in south Belfast earlier this month.
Hope 4 Lifes Uberheroes recognise selfless children and youths who have helped others

A mental health charity is encouraging people to nominate a caring young person for its annual awards.

Hope 4 Life NI delivers early intervention programmes, including its Uberheroes comic books.

The Belfast charitys Nadia Sayers explained: We share true stories of local young people through superheroes and villains [in our comics], to represent those things that help your mental health, but also those things that are detrimental.

Its an easy and accessible way for young people to speak about those stigmatised difficulties.

Its been extremely impactful since we have been running it for the past five or six years and weve worked with more than 35,000 young people.

Hope 4 Life is urging the public to nominate deserving young people for the fourth year of the Uberheroes Kindness Awards, which take place on March 23 at La Mon Hotel & Country Club.

The initiative was created in 2021 as a virtual event amid the pandemic lockdown.

March 2022 witnessed the first in-person awards ceremony at the Stormont Hotel with over 300 guests.

The celebration is for those local children who have demonstrated acts of kindness to others.

The 30 finalists are invited to a star-studded ceremony along with their families.

There are 10 specific award categories recognising acts of kindness by children and teens aged 8-16 years, along with a special surprise award for an Ambassador of Kindness.

Last year this accolade went to eight-year-old Clara-Jane McCrea.

Her dad Terry had said after winning that Clara was talking about all the people who she wanted to help for the rest of 2023, to which he replied: You should choose one organisation to support and focus on helping them.

But Claras response was: Daddy, I am an Ambassador for Kindness now, so I am going to make sure that I help other people to show kindness to those in need, I want to lead by example and wont limit this to one cause, as theres such a need out there.

In 2022 eight-year-old Logan Doyle from Ardboe won the Act of Kindness through Support & Fundraising award.

Mother Clodagh said that his first words after receiving the accolade were: My life really is a miracle.

Derry YouTuber presents Logan Doyle's award in 2022 (Photo: Olin Brannigan)

Logan has autism and raises awareness about his journey through his dedicated Instagram page, @logans_auesome_adventure.

He has also helped raise over 20,000, which he and his family have used to buy specialised, sensory toys at Christmas for children who need them.

Clodagh added: The way they made him feel (at the awards), it was like he was a celebrity.

Everybody was made to feel class, and every child that is nominated gets their full story put up on a big screen. I didnt know these awards existed beforehand and I dont think enough people know about them.

Hope 4 Life chief executive Dee Nixon said the awards were sparked by acts of kindness shown to neighbours, key workers, the elderly and others by children during Uberheroes workshops in 2020.

Kindness is such a wonderful characteristic to encourage in anyone, but especially in our children, Dee added.

People can now nominate a child or young person at www.uberheroes.co.uk
A bus substitution is currently in operation.

A section of the rail line has been closed

A number of passengers have been safely evacuated and a section of the Belfast-Londonderry rail line has been closed after a train engine caught fire.

The fire was reported to the NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) at around 5.30pm on Monday January 22.

Two appliances from Glengormley station, two from Whitla station, two from Ballyclare and one from Central station attended the incident on the Ballymartin Road, Templepatrick.

On arrival at the incident, firefighters carried out an inspection of the train and found that the fire was out on arrival, said a NIFRS spokesperson.

"Firefighters and PSNI colleagues assisted passengers from the train and walked them to safety along the track to waiting buses at Ballymartin Park and Ride.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated by Northern Ireland Railway. The incident was dealt with by 7.24pm.

Translink said an investigation was underway into the incident.

The 3.38pm train service from Derry-Londonderry to Belfast experienced a mechanical failure resulting in a small engine fire under the vehicle. The incident occurred near Templepatrick, said a spokesperson.

With passenger safety our top priority, emergency procedures were put in place and emergency services were called to the scene. Passengers were safely transferred onto buses to complete their journey.

The line is currently closed with bus substitution services operating between Belfast and Antrim. Passengers are advised to check the website www.translink.co.uk or Journey Planner before they travel.

"A technical investigation is currently underway. We apologise to our passengers for any inconvenience caused.

The PSNI have been approached for comment.
Holocaust Memorial Day takes place this year amid the backdrop of ongoing conflict in the Middle East (Ian West/PA)

British Jews are feeling conflicted and caught in the crossfire of public opinion ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day as the conflict in the Middle East rages on, a rabbi has said.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain described a really strange situation where Jews are normally seen as victims when the world marks the annual commemoration of the Holocaust which took place in the Second World War.

He said this year, with the Israel-Hamas war, parts of British society now see Jewish Israelis as perpetrators of violence.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain said this Holocaust Memorial Day will be the most agonising since it began (Luke Doyle/PA)

Rabbi Romain described what is happening in the Middle East as dire, and a very difficult situation morally, with a horrific death toll.

Israel launched an 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 four months on.

Nearly 25,000 Palestinians including thousands of children have been killed in Israels assault  one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history, according to health authorities in Hamas-controlled Gaza.

Rabbi Romain said the brutality of the Hamas attack had given a sense that the nightmare of the past was being re-lived.

A subsequent and very worrying rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in the UK in the period afterwards raised all sorts of fears among British Jews that had really gone since 1945, he added.

In an interview with the PA news agency, he said: There was a feeling that the nightmare scenario that we thought had been relegated to the past actually might re-occur in some possible way and that was very unsettling.

He added: On a totally separate level, Jews feel very conflicted at the moment because weve got this really strange situation where we think of Jews at Holocaust Memorial Day in the Second World War as victims, whereas now there are parts of British society which see Jewish Israelis as perpetrators of violence and so we feel a little bit caught in the crossfire of opinion.

He said this will be probably the most agonising Holocaust Memorial Day since it was first instituted.

Asked about the ongoing situation in Gaza, he said: We feel very conflicted because obviously the rising death toll is a great concern and nobody wants people to die whether theyre Israelis or Jews or Muslims or Palestinians and the death rate is horrific.

On calls for a ceasefire, he said: In theory a ceasefire sounds wonderful. In practice it doesnt solve the problem of Hamas, who want to re-enact October 7 again and again, by their own declarations.

He repeated a statement he made in the days after the October 7 attack that political tensions in the Middle East should not be imported to the UK.

We shouldnt let a political conflict be seen as a religious battle and theres no reason why British Jews and Muslims should not carry on the good relations that they had beforehand, he said.

Its obviously harder but its still possible. Im very adamant that, dreadful as whats going on over in Israel and Gaza is, normal relations should continue here. And even if we have to have difficult conversations, okay, but at least lets keep talking.

Olivia Marks-Woldman, chief executive of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, said: In the face of rising antisemitism and anti-Muslim hatred, it is crucial, now more than ever, that we unite to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.

She said the day, which takes place each year on January 27, brings people together and strengthens communities, reminding us all of the need to respect the humanity in others.

She added: This years theme, the Fragility of Freedom, provides an opportunity for collective reflection on the delicate nature of freedom. It also challenges us to safeguard our freedoms at every opportunity.

Aside from the UK national commemoration, there are thousands of local events taking place across the country: in schools, places of worship, museums and even prisons. The resilience shown by the survivors of the Holocaust, and those of more recent genocides, is not only courageous but deeply inspiring. We owe it to them to learn from the past for a better future.
Family of people taken hostage by Hamas in Israel on October 7 (left to right) Eli Albag, the father of 18-year-old Liri Albag; Ziv Abud, the girlfriend of 26-year-old Eliya Cohen; and Liran Berman, the brother of twins Ziv and Gali Berman. Picture date: Monday January 22, 2024. (Yui Mok/PA)

Families of Israeli hostages say more needs to be done after meeting the Prime Minister in London.

The relatives of hostages being held in Gaza landed in the UK on Monday for a three-day visit to raise awareness and call on the Government to put pressure onto leading figures in Qatar  which has helped to mediate negotiations between Israel and Hamas  to do more.

They said Rishi Sunak told them he is going to do everything he can, as they called for UK leaders to put pressure on Qatar to pick a side.

Ziv Abud told the PA news agency how she had to hide under bodies after her nephew and his partner were killed and her boyfriend was kidnapped on October 7.

Ms Abud, 26, fled the Nova party in Reim with her family after the violence began, and they took shelter with 30 others in front of the Reim base.

Hamas gunmen arrived and threw grenades into the shelter. Ms Abuds partner, Eliya Cohen, 26, was shot in the leg.

Ms Abuds nephew and his partner were killed along with 18 others.

Ms Abud said: We were in the shelter for half an hour and after this we heard the shooting very, very close, five minutes after they were in our shelter.

They threw more than nine grenades to the shelter. After they threw the grenades, they start to take people from the shelter.

They took Eliya and three more people. They put them on a van then they came inside the shelter and start shooting everybody.

Liran Berman, the brother of twins Ziv and Gali Berman (Yui Mok/PA)

She added: I sat for six hours with their bodies, my nephews body in front of my eyes.

Two weeks later, they saw a video which showed Mr Cohen, and they said they could see he was injured, but nothing is now known about his condition or his whereabouts.

Ms Abud and her friend Michal Rahoom told the Prime Minister what had happened and said Mr Sunak told them he would do everything that he can to help  but called for more to be done.

Ms Rahoom said: Hes doing a lot, hes going to a lot of meetings. He also been in Israel a couple of days after everything happened.

So we really appreciate, but we need to do a lot more.

Ms Abud added that she believes if Qatar wanted, the hostages could be released tomorrow morning.

Ziv Abud (left), the girlfriend of 26-year-old Eliya Cohen (Yui Mok/PA)

Eli Albag, father of 18-year-old Liri Albag  who was kidnapped near the border, said it was very important for him to meet Mr Sunak and tell him his daughters story.

Ms Albag, who lives in Moshav Yarhiv in the centre of Israel and started her career training in the military, was kidnapped from her bed near the border with three other women.

He said some of the hostages who were released were with his daughter, and they described the conditions.

Mr Albag said: They say that they dont have food, they dont have water, they dont take a shower, theyre sleeping on the floor, very cold humidity, 40 metres under the ground.

And the most important issue, they are touching them.

There were some pictures taken of her 50 days ago, but no sightings or knowledge about her condition or whereabouts since.

Ziv Abud (right), the girlfriend of 26-year-old Eliya Cohen. (Yui Mok/PA)

Mr Albag has described his family as broken, adding: All our lives have collapsed.

Mr Albag, who showed the Prime Minster a photo of his daughter, said: He was very sensitive and inside his heart is like a very warm person. And for me, its made me feel more close and that he understands our situation very well.

Mr Albag said he was told by the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary David Cameron that they will speak to Qatar.

He said: They will have a meeting with them and they will talk to them and they know everything and David Cameron said that hes coming to Israel, he will go to Egypt and he will go to Qatar too.

Liran Berman, brother of 26-year-old twins Ziv and Gali  who were kidnapped from their house in Kfar Aza, showed Mr Sunak a picture of his little brothers and asked the Prime Minister to keep pushing on the release of the hostages.

Mr Berman, 36, said: We know that the Prime Minister is very supportive of the cause of the release of the hostages. He was one of the first prime ministers, officials, to come to Israel after October 7.

And I asked him to keep pushing on the release of the hostages, to not let it go. Half have been released, some have died, but there are a lot who are still being held captive. So we need his help.

Mr Berman was two hours away from his brothers and felt completely helpless on October 7.

Around 9.30am or 10am, we lost contact with my brothers, he added. We did contact them in the morning, they told us that they are in the safe room, later we found out that they were burning the rooms outside.

For 10 days we knew nothing about them, they were considered missing, and then 10 days later an official came to us and told us they had been kidnapped and were in Gaza.

Mr Berman said when hostages were released they told the family they had seen the twins, but they were not together and both had minor injuries.

He said his family are very tired but very focused and added that helping to release the hostages is the mission of their lives.
Holocaust survivor Hannah Lewis, 86, at her home in north London, ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

A Holocaust survivor who watched her mother being shot dead in front of her by the Nazis has warned there are no winners in war.

Hannah Lewis and her father Adam were the only members of her family to survive the genocide of the Second World War.

Now 86, Mrs Lewis has warned future generations to stay vigilant because human nature is the same.

Mrs Lewis, who grew up in Poland, was rounded up with her family and forcibly marched to a labour camp in 1943.

Towards the end of the war, her mother was lined up with other people and shot dead by German police.

Speaking at her home in north London ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on Saturday, she said humans have a self-destructive nature.

By the end of the war, only my father and I survived, everyone else had been murdered, she said.

Holocaust survivor Hannah Lewis at her home in north London, recalls how family members were killed in the Second World War (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Asked about the importance of remembering the Holocaust today, she told the PA news agency: Look whats happening in the world. We dont learn.

Climates may change, places may change, but human nature is the same.

Were sort of self-destructive almost.

Mrs Lewis was born in the small market town of Wlodawa, and was the only child of Adam and Haya.

She had a happy and uneventful childhood until war broke out and the Nazis occupied Poland.

In 1943, Mrs Lewis and her family were forcibly marched to a labour camp in a village called Adampol a few miles away.

She recalled: My father was very, very concerned, because my grandfather was quite fragile, and he heard that when there were these marches, if you stumbled, if you fell, they had absolutely no compunction taking out a revolver and shooting you.

He was determined that his father was going to be wherever we were safely.

He ran around like a lunatic, and all he could find was a wheelbarrow. He and his cousins and everybody took it in turns to wheel my grandfather.

Over time, most of her family disappeared. Her father and his cousin managed to escape to join partisans, leaving only Mrs Lewis and her mother in the camp.

Hannah Lewis and her family were living in Poland in 1943 (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

She worked at Adampol alongside her cousin Szlomo and her mother, who were given jobs at the home of a village elder who owned the camps land.

She recalled the tragic day Szlomo was taken away by the Germans.

She said: Szlomo was deaf and mute and I absolutely adored him. We did everything together as far as we could.

This particular time, I could hear them on horseback and I could hear the cars as well.

I got hold of his hand and squeezed it so he knew he had to follow me and we ran to the nearest barn.

I pulled his hand and started going into the hay, but he let go of my hand.

I couldnt call him because he couldnt hear, and the Germans were outside.

The door was flung open, they walked in, and they saw him there.

My last sight of my lovely cousin was him being held by the scruff of his neck, his feet kicking, and he couldnt even have the voice to scream.

I think thats when the war actually came to me.

During the last winter of the occupation, Mrs Lewis fell ill with suspected typhoid, and when her father came to warn them of planned German action the next day, her mother refused to leave knowing her daughter would not have survived the journey.

The next morning the German police arrived and her mother  with other people  was taken and lined up by the village well, where she was shot.

Mrs Lewis recalled: She didnt look at me at all, so I decided I would go and hold her hand, the way Ive done lots of times.

Before I could do it, someone yelled a command.

They started to shoot, and I saw her fall. I saw the blood on the snow, and thats when I grew up.

I knew why she wasnt looking at me, and I knew that I mustnt make a sound.

Mrs Lewis remained in the camp and survived as best she could until being liberated by a Soviet soldier who picked her out of a trench dirty and very hungry.

After the war, her father found her, and in 1949 she was brought to live with her great aunt and uncle in London while her father eventually left Poland to go to Israel.

Describing the moment she was reunited with her father, she said: Suddenly, out of nowhere, there was my father, skinny, slightly dirty, but my father, and when he saw me, he put me in his arms and he started to cry.

He couldnt believe that I was still alive.

Mrs Lewis now lives in London having married in 1961 and had four children and eight grandchildren.

She has been sharing her experiences in schools and universities through the Holocaust Educational Trusts Outreach Programme for several years so that young people can seek to understand the impact the Holocaust has had on the contemporary world.

Hannah Lewis speaking to the then-mayor of London Boris Johnson during a Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony at City Hall (Yui Mok/PA)

She continued: People say to me do you tell us this because you hate the Germans so much?

I say no, Im telling you this because I like you so much and I want you to be vigilant.

We shouldnt be horrible to each other. We shouldnt want to kill each other.

Theres plenty of room for everything and everybody.

I think understanding is very important. And I think we need to be kinder to each other.

There are no winners in war. Theres the damaged and the less damaged, but theres no winners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state is disappointing, No 10 has said.

The UK Government has vowed to continue with its support for a two-state solution in the Middle East for as long as it takes in the face of Israels premier saying he would not compromise on Tel Aviv control over Palestinian territories.

Mr Netanyahus stance also puts him at odds with the US, Israels most powerful and closest ally. Rishi Sunak and Joe Biden spoke on Monday evening, with the two leaders agreeing that a two state solution which allows Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security is more important than ever.

Right-wing leader Mr Netanyahu 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 when the Israel-Hamas conflict is over.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with US President Joe Biden last year (Paul Ellis/PA)

He wrote on X, formerly Twitter, 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.

The remarks, rebuked by UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and senior Labour Party figures, deepened a public rift with the US, which has argued a two-state solution is essential for long-term stability.

Asked about the Israeli leaders stance, Prime Minister Mr Sunaks official spokesman told reporters on Monday: It is disappointing to hear this from the Israeli prime minister.

The UKs position remains that 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.

Clearly there will be a long road to recovery and lasting security in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Israel.

But we will continue our long-term support for a two-state solution for as long as it takes.

Downing Street said Mr Sunak used the call to stress that supporting Israel in its efforts to defeat the threat from Hamas does not detract from the need for the IDF to take greater care to protect civilians and operate within International Humanitarian Law.

It comes amid concern internationally about Israels conduct of the war and the ever-growing number of civilian causalities.

The current war between Israel and Hamas, the fifth and by far the deadliest, began when Palestinian militants broke through Israels defences and rampaged through several nearby communities, killing some 1,200 people, and taking around 250 people hostage.

Israels offensive has killed at least 25,105 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-ruled territory.

The two men resolved to continue working together to encourage further humanitarian pauses to get hostages out of Gaza and allow more aid to enter, Number 10 said.

The pair also discussed Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, agreeing to continue efforts alongside international partners to deter and disrupt those attacks.

The US has launched seven rounds of air strikes on Houthi military sites in recent days, targeting air bases under the rebels control and suspected missile launch sites.

On Monday afternoon, Mr Sunak also met family members of Israeli hostages who are still being held in Gaza following Hamass raids on October 7.

Asked if Mr Sunak had given a message to hostages families at an event organised by the Conservative Friends of Israel, the PMs spokesman said: Our message continues to be one of support for the families going through unimaginable pain and suffering, both those who still have hostages held by Hamas and those who have had them returned.

We have a clear message for Hamas that they can return these hostages at any moment, and we would continue to urge them to do so.

According to online news outlet Politico, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer will also speak with those who have flown to London.

The three-day visit by the families is designed to put pressure on Britain to encourage Qatar, which has facilitated negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in order to help secure hostage releases, to pick a side in the conflict.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had a meeting in London on Monday with relatives of Israeli hostages (Jeff Moore/PA)

Meanwhile, the Foreign Office has announced sanctions against five figures who it says are involved in the financial networks of Hamas and another militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

The combined action by the UK and US is the third round of such sanctions imposed on the two groups since the war broke out almost four months ago.

Mr Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until complete victory over Hamas and to return all of the remaining hostages after more than 100 were released in a ceasefire deal in November in exchange for scores of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.

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 residential areas.
Elon Musk, who has been accused of allowing antisemitic messages on his social media platform, X, has visited the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp.

Mr Musks visit at the most notorious site of the horrors of the Holocaust came before a scheduled appearance later on Monday at a conference on antisemitism organised by the European Jewish Association (EJA) in the nearby Polish city of Krakow.

The billionaire has faced accusations from the Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil rights organisation, and others of tolerating antisemitic messages on the platform, formerly known as Twitter, since purchasing it in 2022.

He sparked an outcry in November, including from the White House, when he responded on X to a user who accused Jews of hating white people and professing indifference to antisemitism by posting: You have said the actual truth.

Mr Musk visited the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi German death camp in Oswiecim (EJA/Yoav Dudkevitch via AP)

Mr Musk later apologised for the comment, calling it the dumbest post that hes ever done.

Several big brands, including Disney and IBM, stopped advertising on the platform last year after liberal advocacy group Media Matters said that their ads were appearing alongside pro-Nazi content and white nationalist posts.

X has since sued Media Matters, saying the Washington-based non-profit manufactured the report to drive advertisers from the platform and destroy X Corp.

Mr Musk was photographed visiting the Birkenau site together with Daily Wire podcaster Ben Shapiro, who was also set to attend the EJA conference.

Birkenau is a village near Oswiecim, in southern Poland, fenced off with barbed wire, where wooden barracks for the prisoners and the ruins of a gas chamber endure as evidence of Nazi crimes, and where a monument to the victims stands. International ceremonies are held there each year.

Mr Musk had been expected to make the visit on Tuesday and take part in a memorial service, together with political figures attending the EJA conference in Krakow, but showed up at the Nazi death camp on Monday instead.

Mr Musk had faced criticism for subscribing to an antisemitic conspiracy theory and allowing hate messages on his social media platform, X (EJA/Yoav Dudkevitch via AP)

The EJA said: Due to schedule concerns, before Elon Musks arrival to the European Jewish Association conference, he took part in a private visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with EJA Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Ben Shapiro and Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev.

Musk laid a wreath at the wall of death and took part in a short memorial ceremony and service by the Birkenau memorial.

Mr Musk was set to discuss antisemitism online with Mr Shapiro at the conference in Krakow, which was held before International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27.

More than 1.1 million people were murdered by the Nazis and their henchmen at Auschwitz during the Second World War.

Most who were killed were Jews, but the victims also included Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others.

In all, about six million European Jews died during the Holocaust. When the Soviets liberated the camp, they found about 7,000 survivors.
The burned-out shell of the two-storey house on Monday (Greg Swiercz/South Bend Tribune via AP)

Five children have died in a house fire in northern Indiana in the US.

A sixth is being treated in hospital for burns after being airlifted to Indianapolis.

An adult escaped with minor injuries from the blaze, in South Bend, with minor injuries, while a firefighter fell through a floor, officials said.

The firefighter was treated in hospital and released.

Fire crews in South Bend, a city of more than 100,000 people just south of the Michigan state line, fought the fire for about three hours.

The house the day after five children died there in a fire (Greg Swiercz/South Bend Tribune via AP)

The cause is being investigated.

The children ranged in age from 17 months to 11 years, fire chief Carl Buchanon told reporters.

The 11-year-old remains in hospital.

The fire was reported at about 6.30pm on Sunday and spread rapidly, partly because of wind, Mr Buchanon said.

The adult who escaped told firefighters how many people were inside and had tried to rescue some but was forced back by heavy smoke and flames, Mr Buchanon added.
Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte, pays his respects after laying a wreath at the Srebrenica Memorial Center in Potocari, Bosnia, on Monday (Armin Durgut/AP)

Outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has begun a two-day visit to Bosnia with a stop in Srebrenica, where he paid his respects to victims of the 1995 genocide.

The Netherlands has long wrestled with the legacy of the massacre, Europes only acknowledged genocide since the Holocaust.

Dutch troops served as UN peacekeepers in the town during war in the Balkans but were overrun by Bosnian Serb forces who went on to kill more than 8,000 Bosniak  mostly Muslim  men and boys.

Victims remains are still being unearthed from mass graves and identified.

On Tuesday, Mr Rutte will join European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for discussions about Bosnias bid to join the European Union.

Snow caps the monuments at the Srebrenica Memorial Center in Potocari, Bosnia (Armin Durgut/AP)

Bosnia remains ethnically divided and politically unstable long after the end of the 1992-95 war which killed more than 100,000 people and displaced millions.

In 2002, then-Dutch prime minister Wim Kok resigned after a report harshly criticised Dutch authorities for sending soldiers into a danger zone without a proper mandate or the weapons needed to protect about 30,000 refugees who had fled to the Dutch base in eastern Bosnia.

In 2019, the Dutch Supreme Court ruled that the Netherlands was partially liable in the deaths of about 350 Muslim men killed by Bosnian Serb forces during the massacre.

In Srebrenica, Mr Rutte laid a wreath at the memorial site.

He was accompanied by a delegation from the Mothers of Srebrenica group which represents survivors whose family members were killed.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has vowed to keep supporting Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion  and to resolve differences between Warsaw and Kyiv over grain shipments and trucking.

Mr Tusk, who returned to power last month and is keen to show that a change in government will not alter Polands Ukraine policy, also met his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal.

Mr Tusk said on X, according to comments released by his office: There are some conflicts of interest, we know it well, and we will talk about them, but not only in the spirit of friendship, which is obvious, but with the attitude to solve these problems as soon as possible, not to maintain or multiply them.

For me, it is very important to build the feeling that Poland is the most reliable, most stable ally of Ukraine in this deadly clash with evil.

Mr Zelensky said Warsaw will provide a new defensive package (AP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv will get a new defensive package from Poland.

He said on social media: Theres a new form of our interaction for increasing the scale of arms purchases  a Polish loan to Ukraine.

Mr Tusks visit came a day after Moscow-installed officials in eastern Ukraine reported that Ukrainian shelling killed 27 people on the outskirts of Russian-occupied Donetsk.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called it a monstrous terrorist act, and the Russia-backed local authorities declared a day of mourning.

The Ukrainian military, however, denied it had anything to do with the attack.

Mr Tusk recently returned to power in Poland (AP)

Ukraines allies have recently sought to reassure the country that they are committed to its long-term defence amid concerns that Western support could be sagging. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Frances new foreign minister also travelled to Kyiv in the new year.

Located on Natos eastern flank, Poland has been one of Ukraines strongest allies. Warsaw has provided weapons and humanitarian aid, and opened its borders to Ukrainian refugees since Moscow invaded on February 24 2022.

However, relations soured last year as economic competition from Ukrainian food producers and truckers angered Poles who said their livelihoods were under threat.

Polish farmers and truckers blocked border crossings, causing back-ups and threatening the flow of some aid to Ukraine.

The farmers had complained that imports of Ukrainian foods had caused prices to fall, hurting their incomes, while truckers said they were being undercut by their Ukrainian counterparts.

The issue surfaced during the war as Ukrainian ports were blocked and food producers turned to road routes through Europe to get their products to market.

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At one point, Poland and some other European nations banned Ukrainian grain imports because of the trade dispute.

Polands farmers and trucks have ended the protests for now, but Mr Tusk is seeking ways of addressing their concerns.

He has said Warsaw wants to help Ukraine economically but not at the expense of Polish businesses. He has suggested that Kyiv needs to better regulate its trucking industry.

Mr Tusk is also scheduled to honour the countrys fighters and attend observances of Ukraines Day of Unity, which commemorates the merger in 1919 that brought together its eastern and western regions.

As part of the celebration, Mr Zelensky signed a decree that, among other things, instructs the government to preserve the national identity of Ukrainians living in border regions that are now part of Russia, such as Belgorod, Kursk and Briansk. Some of those areas have recently been targeted by Kyivs forces.

The decree also aims to establish a centre for investigating crimes against Ukrainians on those territories, including forced Russification, political persecutions, and deportations.

In other developments, Ukraines air force said it intercepted all eight Shahed drones that Russia launched overnight over southern and central regions of Ukraine.

Debris from three drones shot down over the central Dnipropetrovsk region started a fire at an unidentified business, but no casualties were reported.

Elsewhere, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited Kharkiv on the third day of his tour of the country. The second-largest city was among the targets of a January 16 Russian missile attack that injured 17 civilians.

Later, Mr Grandi visited children at a school that has relocated to the citys subway system.

Meanwhile, major Ukrainian digital banking platform Monobank said it came under a massive denial-of-service attack by unidentified hackers. The attack was successfully repelled, the bank said, with no major consequences.
Former US president Donald Trump leaves his apartment building in New York on Monday (Seth Wenig/AP)

The former US president was expected to tell a jury why he has for years spoken so disparagingly about E Jean Carroll, the writer who claims he sexually attacked her in the 1990s.

As he did twice last week, Mr Trump on Monday arrived at Manhattan federal court in his motorcade for the resumption of the penalty phase over his 2019 comments branding Ms Carroll a liar who faked the sex attack to sell a memoir.

But judge Lewis A Kaplan announced just before 10am that one of the nine jurors had been told to go home and take a coronavirus test after he reported feeling hot and nauseous.

Mr Trumps lawyer, Alina Habba, also reported that at least one of her parents has Covid and she has exhibited symptoms of a fever in the last two days after having dinner with them several days ago.

She said that her law partner, Michael Madaio, also attended the dinner, although both tested negative for the virus on Monday.

Ms Habba then said she did not see a problem with a short delay for a day so everyone can get tested. Neither lawyer wore a mask in court.

Donald Trumps lawyer Alina Habba (Ted Shaffrey/AP)

In the courtroom on Monday, Mr Trump was not wearing a protective mask.

After Mr Kaplan announced the trial would be postponed for at least a day, Ms Habba asked if Mr Trumps evidence could be delayed until Wednesday because of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.

The judge did not immediately rule but told her: Circumstances may result in you getting what you ask for, and maybe not.

Because a different jury found last year that Mr Trump sexually abused Ms Carroll, Mr Kaplan has ruled that if the former president takes the stand now, he will not be allowed to say she concocted her allegation or that she was motivated by financial or political considerations.

Last week, the voluble ex-president and current Republican front-runner sat at the defence table while Ms Carroll gave evidence, complaining to his lawyers about a witch hunt and con job loudly enough that the judge threatened to throw Mr Trump out of the courtroom if he kept it up.

Mr Trump piped down and stayed in court, then held a press conference where he deplored the nasty judge.

Its a disgrace, frankly, whats happening, Mr Trump told reporters, repeating his claim that Ms Carrolls allegation was a made-up, fabricated story.

E Jean Carroll, Mr Trumps accuser (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/AP)

Besides tangling with Mr Kaplan, Mr Trump bucked the New York state judge in his recent civil business fraud trial involving claims that he inflated his wealth.

Mr Trump, who denies any wrongdoing, delivered a brief closing argument of sorts without committing to rules for summations and assailed the judge from the witness box.

He was also fined a total of 15,000 US dollars (11,790) for what the judge deemed violations of a gag order concerning comments about court staffers.

Mr Trumps lawyers are appealing the order.

In Ms Carrolls case, her lawyers have implored the judge to make Mr Trump swear, before any evidence, that he understands and accepts the courts restrictions on what he can say.

There are any number of reasons why Mr Trump might perceive a personal or political benefit from intentionally turning this trial into a circus, lawyer Roberta Kaplan wrote in a letter to the judge, who is no relation.

Mr Trump is contending with four criminal cases as well as the civil fraud case and Ms Carrolls lawsuit as the presidential primary season gets into gear.

He has been juggling court and campaign appearances, using both to argue that he is being persecuted by Democrats terrified of his possible election.

Mr Trump pointing to members of the audience during a campaign event in Rochester, New Hampshire, on Sunday (Charles Krupa/AP)

Mr Trump is expected to travel after Mondays court session to an evening campaign event in New Hampshire, which holds its Republican presidential primary on Tuesday.

His trips to court at times have also amplified media coverage of developments that he likes  such as an accounting professors evidence for Mr Trumps defence in the fraud trial  and his criticisms of developments that he does not.

He regularly addressed the news cameras waiting outside the fraud trial in a New York state court. Cameras are not allowed in the federal courthouse where the Carroll trial is taking place, so he at one point left and held a press conference at one of his New York buildings even as his accuser continued giving evidence against him.

Im here because Donald Trump assaulted me, and when I wrote about it, he said it never happened. He lied, and he shattered my reputation, Ms Carroll, a former longtime Elle magazine advice columnist, told jurors and Mr Trump while he was still in court.

Mr Trump does not have to attend or give evidence in the civil case.

He stayed away last year from the prior trial, where a different jury awarded Carroll five million dollars (3.9 million) after deciding Mr Trump sexually abused her in 1996 and made defamatory comments about her in 2022.

Mr Trump is appealing that verdict.

Mr Trump walking off stage after speaking at a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Saturday (Matt Rourke/AP)

For complex legal reasons, Ms Carrolls defamation claims were divided between two lawsuits  hence the second trial, where shes seeking more than 10 million dollars (7.9 million) in damages.

Mr Trump has said his lawyers advised him not to dignify the first trial by attending it. He is attending the second one, he has said, because of what he views as the judges animus.

Ms Habba told the court in a letter that he might take to the witness box because, even with the judges restrictions, he can still offer considerable testimony in his defence.

Among other things, he can give evidence about his state of mind when he made the statements that got him sued and about how his comments came as Ms Carroll was doing media interviews and journalists were asking him about her, Ms Habba wrote.

She also suggested he could show his lack of ill will or spite by talking about how he corrected his initial denial of having ever met Ms Carroll.

The revision happened after a reporter called Mr Trumps attention to a 1987 photograph of him, Ms Carroll and their then-spouses at a charity event.

Mr Trump responded that he was standing with my coat on in a line  give me a break.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis has suspended his Republican presidential campaign, ending his 2024 White House bid just before the New Hampshire primary while endorsing his bitter rival Donald Trump.

The decision leaves Mr Trump and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley as the last major candidates remaining in the race ahead of Tuesdays New Hampshire primary.

This is the scenario Mr Trumps foes in the Republican Party 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, Mr DeSantis nodded towards Mr Trumps primary dominance  and attacked Ms Haley  in an exit video he posted on social media.

(PA Graphics)

Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, Mr 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 honour 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.

Ms Haley spoke at a campaigning stop in Seabrook, New Hampshire, just as Mr 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.

Mr DeSantiss 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 Mr Trumps supremacy in the Republican Party.

He entered the 2024 presidential contest with major advantages in his quest to take on Mr Trump, and early primary polls suggested Mr DeSantis was in a strong position to do just that.

He and his allies amassed a political fortune well in excess of 130 million dollars (102 million), and he boasted a significant legislative record on issues important to many conservatives, such as abortion and the teaching of race and gender issues in schools.

Such advantages did not survive the reality of presidential politics in 2024.

Ron DeSantis with his wife Casey DeSantis and children, Madison and Mason, right (Sean Rayford/AP)

From a high-profile announcement that was plagued by technical glitches to constant upheavals to his staff and campaign strategy, Mr 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 Mr Trump.

Mr DeSantiss allies said that private discussions began shortly after Iowa to decide how to bow out of the race gracefully.

They ultimately decided that he needed to endorse Mr Trump, 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 Mr 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 Mr DeSantis, whom Mr Trump has mercilessly and relentlessly taunted in deeply personal terms for the better part of a year now.

For Mr Trump, whose team includes many former DeSantis staff members, the attacks have often felt more like sport than political strategy.

Mr 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.

Donald Trump (Matt Rourke/AP)

Mr DeSantiss team joined Mr Trump in attacking Ms Haley as news of his departure rippled across the political landscape.

Some doubt Ms Haley, who was seen as splitting Republican votes and preventing a head-to-head match up with Mr Trump, would benefit from Mr DeSantiss decision.

She will not be the nominee, key DeSantis supporter Representative Chip Roy (Republican-Texas) told The Associated Press.

She will not be the president of the United States.

Mr Trump had already shifted his focus to Ms Haley in recent weeks, but minutes after Mr DeSantiss announcement, the former presidents campaign released a new memo highlighting the pressure on Ms Haley to win New Hampshire.

Nikki Haley (Matt Rourke/AP)

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 EMBARASSED in her home state of South Carolina, which votes on February 24.

Now, for some important advice, they continued.

Choose wisely.

Mr Trump himself addressed Mr DeSantiss departure shortly after it was announced during a stop at Manchester campaign headquarters, according to a video shared by his staff.

We just got some word that one of our opponents, very capable person, is dropping out of the race  Ron DeSantis. And Ron is dropping out and, in doing so, he endorsed us, Mr Trump said to cheers, before a Trump! chant broke out in the room of volunteers.

Asked if he would be using the name Ron DeSanctimonious, Mr Trump said to loud cheers: I said that name is officially retired.
HMS Diamond firing her Sea Viper missiles in the Red Sea in the UK and USs first joint strike earlier this month (Ships crew/MoD/Crown Copyright/PA)

The US and UK militaries have bombed multiple sites used by the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, several American officials have said.

It is the second time the two allies have conducted retaliatory strikes on an array of the rebels missile-launching capabilities.

They used warship- and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets to take out Houthi missile storage sites and launchers, according to the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The joint operation comes after US and UK warships and jets hit more than 60 targets in 28 locations on Thursday January 11.

That was the first US military response to what has been a persistent campaign of Houthi drone and missile attacks on commercial ships since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October.

Houthi fighters march during a rally of support for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and against the US strikes on Yemen outside Sanaa on Monday (AP)

The Houthis media office said in an online statement that several American and UK raids targeted Yemens capital, Sanaa.

Jamal Hassan, a resident from south Sanaa, said two strikes landed near his home, setting off car alarms in the street.

An Associated Press journalist in Sanaa also heard aircraft flying above Sanaa on Monday night.

The latest barrage of allied attacks follows an almost-daily assault on Houthi missile launchers by US fighter jets and ship-based Tomahawks over the past week.

The rapid response missions, which officials said go after launchers armed and ready to fire, demonstrate the militarys increasing ability to watch, detect and strike militant activities in Yemen.

The chaotic wave of attacks and reprisals involving the United States, its allies and foes suggests the retaliatory strikes have not deterred the Houthis from their campaign against Red Sea shipping, and that the broader regional war that the US has spent months trying to avoid is becoming closer to reality.

For months, the Houthis have attacked ships in the regions waterways that they say are either linked to Israel or heading to Israeli ports.

They say their attacks aim to end the Israeli air-and-ground offensive in the Gaza Strip that was triggered by the Palestinian militant group Hamass October 7 attack in southern Israel.

But any such links to the ships targeted in the rebel assaults have grown more tenuous as the attacks continue.
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.

 Marianne 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.
The Portadown womans body was found a year after she went missing, the bodies of three IRA men who the IRA itself accused of her murder were found three days later

The IRA accused three men not only of Margaret Perry (inset)'s murder but of being informers. They had been shot by the IRAs notorious nutting squad, of which Freddie Scappaticci, the agent known as Stakeknife, was a leading member

For a year, her disappearance remained a mystery, but her family and friends believed she had been murdered by local IRA members.

Then, on July 2 1992, her body was found in a shallow grave over the border in Mullaghmore, Co Sligo.

Three days later the bodies of three IRA men were found in south Armagh.

The IRA accused the men - Gregory Burns, John Dignam and Aidan Starrs - not only of Margarets murder but of being informers, even agents.

They had been shot by the IRAs notorious nutting squad, its internal security team.

Freddie Scappaticci, the agent known as Stakeknife, was a leading member of that group.

Why was Margaret murdered? Who were her murderers and is it possible that one British agent killed three other agents?

Ciaran Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.
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.
Republican charged with Lyra McKee murder at centre of Maghaberry Prison strip-search row

Dissidents believe 23-year-old Jordan Devine was singled out after police received intelligence that the New IRA is targeting prison officers for murder

Jordan Devine

Ciaran Barnes Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 09:15

A hardline republican charged with the murder of journalist Lyra McKee is at the centre of a strip-searching row in Maghaberry Prison.
Members of Islami Oikyojote, a faith-based party, demonstrate demanding that the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) scrap changes in the transgender inclusive books for government schools, Dhaka, Jan. 21, 2023.

One of Bangladeshs top private universities has sparked a heated debate on social media and on campus after it allegedly dismissed an instructor who publicly criticized the inclusion of transgender rights in the national school curriculum.

BRAC University said in a statement that Asif Mahtab Utsha used to be a part-time lecturer and was no longer under contract, while he said he had been teaching regular classes on weekends until he was removed on Sunday.

This comes after a newly formed hardline religious group launched a campaign to oppose the Bangladesh governments efforts to legally safeguard the rights of transgender people in the Muslim-majority South Asian country.

Mahtab told BenarNews that he suspected he was dismissed because he opposed the inclusion of a chapter on transgender rights in government school textbooks, which began in January last year.

I taught classes at BRAC University regularly on Sunday. I was asked not to teach any more classes at the university, he told BenarNews,

They didnt give me a reason, but I suspect this is due to my opinion on the transgender issue.

Last Friday, Mahtab had participated at a seminar on the new education curriculum held at the Institute of Diploma Engineers in Dhaka.

A video that circulated on social media showed him tearing up the two pages of the seventh-grade textbook that contain the story of a transgender woman.

This is an attempt to brainwash our children. I am in favor of protecting the [transgender] peoples rights. But this story is not going to help them, Mahtab told BenarNews.

The story describes how a transgender woman who had been born male had been discriminated against by her family and society, and found peace after she changed her name and joined a transgender community and changed her name.

A transgender woman holds a national flag as she dances during a rally to mark the first ever nationwide program to observe Hijra Day in Dhaka, Nov. 10, 2014. [Munir uz Zaman/AFP]

Meanwhile, BRAC University on Monday said it would maintain the confidentiality of its employees and their contracts, adding, though, that Mahtab used to be a contract faculty member and not a permanent one.

Asif Mahtab Utsha worked as an adjunct faculty member at BRAC University on contract. However, he is currently not under any contract with the university, the university said in a statement.

The university upholds the freedom of expression of its faculty and students and promotes collaborative, inclusive, and collegial conduct, the statement added.

Some conservative Islamist groups last month formed an organization called the National Fatwa Board to launch a campaign against transgender people who they believe are interfering with Gods creation.

Changing the identity that [God] has created through surgery is tantamount to interfering with Allahs creation, Mufti Mizanur Rahman Sayed, a member of the organization, told BenarNews.

He said the group had met several times in Dhaka to discuss its campaign and planned to publish a book on what they believe.

The Bangladesh government in 2013 officially recognized people called hijras in South Asia as a third gender.

According to a case study by Harvard Universitys Divinity School, hijras are often born male but look and dress in traditionally feminine ways. Other hijras are born intersex.

People outside South Asia call them transgender, but South Asian society and most hijras consider themselves to be third gender  neither male nor female, not transitioning.

According to the latest population census, Bangladesh has 12,629 hijras.

Boycott threat

An organization affiliated with an Islamic party called the Islami Andolon Bangladesh, which is currently the countrys largest faith-based party, meanwhile said that BRAC needed to reinstate Mahtab, the professor, or it would be boycotted.

If BRAC University authorities do not reappoint Asif Mahtab, then 92% of Muslims of the country will be forced to boycott not only BRAC University but all institutions related to BRAC, said Shahidul Islam Kabir, president of the organization Liberation War Generation Council, in a statement.

Another group called Citizen Forum, in a separate statement, protested the hostile and cruel attitude of BRAC University towards Mahtab.

A noted Paris-based Bangladeshi writer, Jannatun Nayeem Prity, however said that an academic ought to have certain qualities.

A person who cannot respect people of all genders as human beings has no qualification to be a teacher, the writer said on Facebook.

Tanisha Yeasmin Chaity, a transgender woman who works for her communitys rights, told BenarNews that such a campaign against transgender people was inhumane.

The campaigners were trying to portray the transgender community as anti-Islamic, she said.

If a person is born with an illness during birth, can it not be treated? she said.

So why would it be an offense to cure gender-related ailments?
Indonesian vice presidential candidate Gibran Rakabuming Raka (right) pretends to search for a lost answer after a response by one of his opponents, Mohammad Mahfud MD (not in the frame), as the third candidate, Muhaimin Iskandar, observes, during a vice presidential debate in Jakarta, Jan. 21, 2024.

Social media users on Monday criticized Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the Indonesian presidents eldest son and a vice-presidential hopeful, for coming across as disrespectful and arrogant through his comments and gestures during the latest televised debate among VP candidates.

Gibran, the 36-year-old running mate of presidential frontrunner Prabowo Subianto was censured for instance for using an English term, greenflation, to question rival Mohammad Mahfud MD, during Sunday nights debate at the Jakarta Convention Center.

Gibran, whose critics scorn him as a nepo baby  a creation of perceived nepotism  refused to translate the term as the moderators had asked, because [Mahfud] is a professor. Mahfud MD responded by speaking about the green economy rather than greenflation, according to various media reports.

Gibran then widened his eyes, stooped and made a palm down salute gesture as though he was searching for something.

Im looking for Prof. Mahfuds answer, Im looking for it, where is it? I cant find it, he said.

Greenflation refers to potential price rises caused by the adoption of environmentally friendly initiatives.

Gibran also targeted the third vice presidential candidate Muhaimin Iskandar, poking fun at him for reading from his notes while answering the moderators question.

Throughout the debate Gibran repeatedly mocked and belittled Mahfud MD and Muhaimin, who are the vice presidential candidates for ruling party (PDIP) candidate Ganjar Pranowo and Anies Baswedan, the former Jakarta governor, respectively.

Indonesian president Joko Jokowi Widodo, whos also from the PDIP, has not officially endorsed any of the three pairs publicly, but its understood he supports the one that includes his eldest son Gibran.

Critics have accused Gibran, the mayor of Solo in Central Java, of being a product of nepotism. A controversial ruling in October by the Constitutional Court, led at that time by Jokowis brother-in-law, allowed Gibran to run as vice president with Prabowo.

The three presidential candidates in the 2024 Indonesia election and their running mates, (from left), Ganjar Pranowo and Mohammad Mahfud MD; Anies Baswedan and Muhaimin Iskandar; and Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka; meet on stage at the end of the second vice presidential debate in Jakarta, Jan. 21, 2024. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews]

After the debate, Indonesians on social media didnt hold back, linking Gibrans behavior to his being a beneficiary of alleged nepotism.

He gives me nepo baby energy. Arrogant, disrespectful and incompetent, wrote a user of X (formerly Twitter), who goes by the username @sarishara.

Nepo baby is short for nepotism baby, and refers to the child of a successful person who has also seen success having been given a leg up by his or her parents status.

Jokowis eldest son was also described as arrogant and snobbish and his antics as cringe, which is slang for cringeworthy or embarrassing. Along with Gibrans name, these terms became trending topics on X (formerly Twitter).

Gibran has no manners and decency. He acts like a big shot and a bully, another X user, @hajaiz, wrote.

A few, though, defended the 36-year-old son of Jokowi as they stood up for the youth in general.

Why is it that when young people are tough and critical, they are always considered rude? But if it is the older people who do that to the young people, it is always seen as normal, and we as young people are asked to accept it as if it is something ordinary. Isnt this a double standard? wrote X user @tsamaraDKI.

More than half the Indonesian electorate of nearly 205 million is between 17 and 35 years old.

Gibran got a surprisingly positive response after his participation in the first debate among the vice presidential candidates last month against seasoned politicians such as Mahfud MD and Muhaimin.

Some analysts said he was well prepared and had managed to counter the nepo baby criticism against him.

This time around the response to Jokowis eldest wasnt just not positive, it was unfavorable, at least according to one analysis of social media.

Gibran received 60% negative sentiment, 33% positive, and 7% neutral from social media users who responded to the vice presidential debate, according to an analysis by Drone Emprit, a research firm.

Vice presidential candidate Mohammad Mahfud MD, currently serving as Indonesias Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, delivers his statement during the second vice presidential debate, Jakarta, Jan. 21, 2024. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews]

The three candidates discussed issues related to natural resources, sustainable development, the environment, and indigenous people.

Gibran, who supports his fathers policy of processing minerals domestically, challenged Muhaimin over his views on nickel, a key metal for electric vehicles (EVs).

Nickel downstreaming, a big Jokowi initiative, is a policy that aims to add value to Indonesias nickel resources by processing them into intermediate or final products, such as stainless steel or batteries.

The Anies-Muhaimin campaign has criticized Jokowis policy, citing the example of Tesla, the EV giant, which is switching to cheaper batteries that do not use nickel.



Your team often talks about LFP [batteries]. Are you anti-nickel or what? Please explain, Gibran asked Muhaimin, unleashing yet another somewhat obscure initialism.

LFP battery uses lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material, which is cheaper and more abundant than nickel, but has a shorter driving range. Some Chinese battery makers have been producing LFP batteries for electric vehicles.

Muhaimin did not respond to Gibrans question and instead talked about environmental ethics. Gibran took that to mean his opponent didnt know what LFP batteries were.



Its strange, right? His team are the ones who keep talking about LFP batteries, but the vice presidential candidate doesnt know what an LFP battery is, Gibran said.



In response, Muhaimin slammed the nickel processing industry in Indonesia, saying it neglected environmental and social impacts and hired many Chinese workers.



Its future [nickel downstreamings] is uncertain.  we harm the environment and society, Muhaimin said.



He also claimed that the state received little income from the nickel downstreaming policy because Indonesian nickel was sold at a low price to smelter companies, so it had no leverage.



Indonesia is the worlds largest producer of nickel, and has been imposing export bans and taxes on nickel ore since 2014 to encourage domestic downstreaming.

I leave it to the viewers

Gibran should have acted more maturely and professionally, said Ahmad Khoirul Umam, a political analyst at Paramadina University.

Instead of stopping his unsympathetic gimmicks, Gibran kept [on with] them, and this gave Muhaimin Iskandar and Mahfud MD an opportunity to counter his strategy by treating his trivial and irrelevant questions as not deserving an answer, Umam told BenarNews.

He said Gibrans antics were childish and ineffective.

Besides, said political researcher Dedi Kurnia Syah, Gibran did not answer many questions from Muhaimin and Mahfud MD.



Gibran tried to mask his weaknesses with personal insults and gestures to offend Mahfud MD and Muhaimin, and even tried to damage their reputation, Dedi, executive director of Indonesia Political Opinion, a political research institute, told BenarNews.



At a press conference after the debate, Gibran said the public would judge his performance.



Whether its offensive or not, I leave it to the viewers. I just exchanged ideas, conveyed vision and mission. Thats all, he said.



Meanwhile, Ujang Komarudin, a political analyst at Al Azhar University Indonesia, said Gibrans antics were part of his debating strategy.



In a debate anything can happen, including tricks to pressure the opponent, he told BenarNews.



But Effendy Gazali, a political lecturer at the University of Indonesia, said he had never seen a politician resorting to such tactics.



Gibrans style is unprecedented in the world of debates, he told a YouTube talk show.

[E]ven Donald Trump, the former U.S. president who was notorious for his aggressive and controversial rhetoric, was more civil than Gibran.



Nazarudin Latif in Jakarta contributed to this report.
Pastor Apollo Quiboloy (second from right) prays with then-presidential hopeful Rodrigo Duterte (to Quiboloys right) at a birthday celebration during a thanksgiving worship service in Lingayen, a town in Pangasinan province, northern Philippines, March 27, 2016.

The Philippine Senate has summoned former President Rodrigo Dutertes spiritual adviser, a televangelist preacher wanted in the United States on suspicion of sexual trafficking and fraud, to testify in response to allegations of sexual abuse, according to a senatorial aide.

Apollo Quiboloy, who founded the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, a Philippines-based megachurch with branches in the U.S., was asked to appear on Tuesday before a Senate committee chaired by Sen. Risa Hontiveros, one of Dutertes staunchest critics, the aide said.

The summoning of Pastor Quiboloy, who refers to himself as the appointed son of God, is considered politically significant in the Philippines, where the former president is under pressure from human rights groups over the killings of thousands of suspects during a crackdown on illegal drugs launched under his administration (2016 to 2022).

Quiboloy was invited. If he snubs the hearing tomorrow, the chair will make a ruling based on the statement he [makes] to the committee, the aide, who was not authorized to speak to journalists, told BenarNews.

According to the aide, if Quiboloy does not appear on Tuesday, other people and witnesses have been asked to testify before the Senate Committee Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality chaired by Hontiveros.

In filing a senate resolution that called for an investigation into Quiboloy, whose church is headquartered in Dutertes southern hometown of Davao City, Hontiveros said she had heard hair-raising allegations from testimonies last month by Quiboloys alleged victims.

Front and center of these narratives are the systematic sexual abuse of women and children in the hands of this man they call pastor, Hontiveros said.

And no, these are not crimes of the past for which we are holding Apollo Quiboloy to account. This is an ongoing offense. The abuse of women and children is taking place as we speak, under the auspices of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.

Efforts by BenarNews to reach Quiboloy or his lawyer for comment on Monday were unsuccessful.

Presidential friend

Quiboloy founded the Kingdom of Jesus Church in 1985 in the southern Philippines after he claimed to have secluded himself in a mountainous area and found salvation. He has told the story about a revelation in which God came to his mother as a cloud to declare her son as his own.

The church grew in numbers  about 4 million in the Philippines and 2 million abroad, including in the United States  and with it Quiboloys political clout increased as well. The sect, and his name, grew in national prominence when his friend, Duterte, was elected president in 2016.

Apollo Quiboloy, leader of the Philippines-based Kingdom of Jesus Christ church, appears on his talk show in Davao City, southern Philippines, May 23, 2016. [Aaron Favila/AP]

When the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced it had launched an investigation on Quiboloy two years ago, Duterte defended him.

Well, we are friends. Id like to stress that to everyone, to all and sundry, Duterte said in March 2022.

They met at a small chapel in Agdao, a district in Davao city where communist rebel hit squads were carrying out rampant urban attacks.

When I ran for mayor, he asked me to speak  and I was the only politician in Davao that went to his church to speak. It was just a small church. There was no building, it was bare in 1988, Duterte once said. So the friendship grew. And I value that friendship.

Hontiveros said she had spoken to several alleged victims of Quiboloy, including one who told her that she was only 15 when she was recruited into the church along with her family. She and others in the church were made to beg on the streets and were subjected to beatings if they failed to collect enough money, the senator said.

Another former church member recalled how she was beaten, her head banged on a wall repeatedly because she had dared to date outside of the sect.

I am in possession of testimonies to that effect, Hontiveros said.

My office is in possession of an affidavit detailing the sexual abuse inflicted by Quiboloy himself on a minor, she said. My office is in direct contact with a woman who, while not a minor when the sexual abuse happened, lives with the trauma it has brought and continues to fear for her safety.

Quiboloy once accused the U.S. government of meddling and taunted the FBI, saying that he was bulletproof against the allegations against him.

The allegations against him surfaced publicly in November 2021 when a federal grand jury in the U.S., as part of a 42-count indictment, charged Quiboloy on suspicion of orchestrating a sex-trafficking operation that coerced girls as young as 12 to have sex with him or risk eternal damnation.

In December 2022, the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions against Quiboloy, accusing him of raping women and children. However, Washington has stopped short of asking Manila to extradite the pastor.

In July 2023, YouTube and Google took out Quiboloys media channels maintained by Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), a television station that gained prominence during the Duterte administration.

Jeoffrey Maitem and Mark Navales in Manila contributed to this report.
3 killed, 2 injured after shooting at rental home in U.S. Texas

Xinhua) 11:13, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
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BENNINGTON  A Shaftsbury man was in court on Monday for violating a condition of release  to not possess any more animals  stemming from a prior animal abuse case.

Allan Washburn, 82, of Shaftsbury, was arraigned on one count of violating his condition of release stemming from a still-pending animal abuse case in which he is charged with two counts of keeping his dog  a 5-year-old Siberian husky  locked in a vehicle filled with garbage and clutter with the windows rolled up in the Bennington Walmart parking lot, in both April and June 2022.

Washburn answered for now having a cat in his vehicle.

Bennington Police Department responded on Dec. 7 to a report of a cat locked inside a parked vehicle at the Price Chopper parking lot on Northside Drive in Bennington. Responding officers immediately identified the vehicle as Washburns, a blue 2002 Saturn with Connecticut plates  the same vehicle that Washburn is accused of keeping the Siberian husky locked in during the 2022 incidents. According to an affidavit, the car was still completely cluttered inside and filled with trash nearly to the ceiling.

When police located Washburn inside Price Chopper, he claimed not to know he was banned from keeping a pet.

Washburn was arrested on the scene and taken to the Bennington Police Department, where he was cited to appear for Mondays arraignment. He was released on his own recognizance.

The condition of the cat, or its location after removal, is unclear.

A Bennington judge previously ordered Washburn in his conditions of release not to own, possess, or care for any animals after his animal abuse arrest in June 2022.

In August 2023, Washburn was required to permanently forfeit his dog and pay restitution for the animal's care after a judge found that Chad, the husky, was neglected and treated with cruelty. It was determined that the dog was left in a hot car full of trash and miscellaneous belongings in the two 2022 incidents, with just one window rolled down two inches and without water, food, or room to move.

Washburn appealed that forfeiture to the Vermont Supreme Court. A decision is still pending. The husky was adopted soon after the forfeiture decision.

Washburn is currently facing a year of imprisonment on each of the two counts of animal cruelty stemming from both incidents. The case is currently on hold until a psychological evaluation is completed.

In April 2022, after being alerted by several women to a dog inside a parked car with no air conditioning, police approached the vehicle to find the husky  Chad  sitting in the car, surrounded by rotting garbage. According to the affidavit, the dog did not seem to be in major distress at the time, so police allowed Washburn to drive off after witnessing the dog drinking milk.

Later that spring, police found Washburns 2002 Saturn vehicle piled with trash, according to an affidavit. The temperature inside the car was estimated to be 109 degrees. The dog was found panting, with no water, curled on the vehicles passenger seat and lying on top of piles of trash, old meat, spoiled milk, and expired fruit.

Washburn was estimated to be in Walmart for an hour. Police confiscated the dog after the second incident. He was housed at the Second Chance Animal Center in Arlington, where he was described as underweight and having difficulty walking because of atrophied legs. Shelter officials said the dog fully recovered prior to his adoption.
This Story in History is selected from the archives by Jeannie Maschino, The Berkshire Eagle.
LENOX  A national engineering firm specializing in PCB cleanup projects will host a public open house at Town Hall on Tuesday evening to answer questions about the EPA-GE Rest of River cleanup plan.

GEs plan to transport by truck PCB waste removed from the Housatonic River from southeast Pittsfield to Rising Pond in Great Barrington has been a lightning rod for public and local government opposition since it was unveiled on Oct. 31.

Weston & Sampson, hired by Lenox to advise and monitor the progress of the cleanup, will have experts available at Town Hall from 6 to 8 p.m. to explain GEs Transportation and Disposal Plan. The gathering is open to the public, whether or not they live in Lenox.

We want people to be very well-informed and ask questions, said Lenox Select Board Chairman Edward Lane. He announced the open house at Wednesday nights televised board meeting. Details, including an RSVP link, are available on the towns website. An email blast went out to residents signed up for Town Hall and Code Red messages.

Lane emphasized that he wants people to understand the options for PCB transport. The deadline for public comment to the Environmental Protection Agency is Feb. 1.

The more informed you are, the better questions you can ask, he said. Its a very important meeting, because its do or die to get the comments sent to the agency by the deadline.

PCBs, a probable cancer-causing chemical, were used at Pittsfields GE electrical transformer plant and in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications, including electrical equipment, as plasticizers in paints, plastics and rubber products, and in carbonless copy paper, starting in the 1930s. They were banned by the EPA in 1979.

Weston & Sampson, headquartered in Reading with multiple offices from Massachusetts and Vermont to Florida, is considered among the nations top three engineering firms with experts specializing in PCBs, Selectman Neal Maxymillian told The Eagle.

On Monday, the Select Board will post a draft technical memo from the company on the town website, Lane said. The memo will remain there through Jan. 31 for residents to read. On that date, the Select Board will approve its own comments on the Transportation and Disposal Plan to be submitted to the EPA to meet the Feb. 1 deadline.

Theres strong public interest in potential use of the state-owned Housatonic Railroad Co., whose tracks parallel the river, to convey most of the PCB-tainted soil and sediment to the Upland Disposal Facility near Woods Pond in Lee, and to an out-of-state licensed facility for the most toxic material. Railroad officials have expressed support for at least some rail transport.

A hybrid EPA Housatonic River Citizens Coordinating Council meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Lee Middle & High School Cafeteria, 300 Greylock St.

Leaders of the six towns directly affected by the transportation plan  Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, Sheffield, Stockbridge and West Stockbridge  have sent a letter to Dean Tagliaferro, the EPAs Rest of River project manager, strongly advocating inclusion of rail transport in the cleanup plan. The letter was copied to local, state and federal lawmakers.

Tagliaferro already has stated publicly that he expects the EPA is likely to order GE to revise the Transportation and Disposal Plan. The Tri-Town Board of Health and its chairman, Dr. Charles Kenny, also have urged consideration of rail to reduce the impact of PCB-laden truck traffic through the five towns.

According to GE, rail transport would increase the truck trips to an average of 58 per day since it would have to deliver the waste from the river to rail sidings. But Housatonic Railroad Co. corporate counsel Parker Rodriguez has dismissed that claim as dishonest. GE has signaled willingness to consider rail for hauling the higher PCB toxins to out-of-state facilities.

In addition to wear and tear on roads, residents and town officials are worried about PCB leakage as the trucks move through small Berkshire towns.

A petition seeking rail rather than truck transport has about 2,000 signatures, according to Lee Select Board Chair Bob Jones. Improving the tracks along the river "would result in a more comprehensive cleanup of the river," he has said.
PITTSFIELD  A Sandisfield woman and her mother cant live on the property she owns without utilities, a judge told her last week after the town upped the ante on efforts to evict Jennifer M. Pilbin.

Someone is going to be seriously injured or die, said lawyer Gregg Corbo, who represents Sandisfield, to Judge Jeffrey Winik Wednesday at Western Housing Court. He called the situation very dangerous" and a fire risk.

The town's Board of Health voted that the property is not fit for human habitation.

Jayne Smith, the towns health agent, sat with Corbo at court as he presented a motion for an amended preliminary junction that would more explicitly bar Pilbin and her 75-year-old mother, MaryAlice OConnor, from living in tents, trailers or cars parked at 12 West Hubbard Road.

Sandisfields zoning bylaw excludes temporary structures, including tents and trailers, from residential properties. Single-family homes are the only permitted structures.

This is severe drama, Jennifer Pilbin said. She came to court with OConnor, and her service dog, Raven, a 1-year-old female Great Dane.

The conditions at the property have severely deteriorated, Corbo said, expressing concern for the welfare of OConnor because of her age.

We are comfortable living there, Pilbin told the judge. Weve lived there for four years.  This is my property. Its the American dream.

On Jan. 2, Winik ordered them to vacate the trailer and to "relocate to suitable alternative housing" by Jan. 12. He also ordered Pilbin to disconnect a generator that powers the trailer.

I was not giving you the opportunity to jury-rig your living situation on this property, Winik said. It has to all be done in compliance.

He also ordered Pilbin to allow the town to conduct a second inspection within a week on Tuesday, after Pilbin denied Smith access to certain areas in a Jan. 16 inspection.

Pilbin asked about having a lawyer assigned to her case.

I cant appoint a lawyer for you, Winik said. Its a civil case, not a criminal case.

He listed several options for finding lawyers, including volunteer lawyers and Legal Aid.

When I issue an order, everyone is going to comply with it, he said.

Pilbin, who filed for bankruptcy Sept. 25, said her bankruptcy lawyer gave her the name of a housing lawyer.

Im going to fight this all the way to the Supreme Court, she said, calling the case unconstitutional.

I have never been happier in my life than living with my daughter, OConnor told The Eagle after the hearing. We just want to be left alone.

Both mother and daughter complained about neighbors who brought the matter to the towns attention.

Pilbin said she has electric heat, has bought 250 gallons of water, and has a self-composting toilet with lime and shavings, just as if you were going camping.

Listing violations of the state sanitary code, Corbo said Pilbins property has no onsite water source, no shower, no bathroom or means of septic disposal, that human waste is buried in holes, no kitchen facilities, no smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, no heat and no electricity.

He added that Pilbin is creating a threat to public health and safety by burying human waste in holes on the property, using faulty wiring and space heaters in close proximity to improperly stored flammable liquids.

Pilbin has burned garbage in a barrel on the property in barrels, according to the health agent.

The town has suggested she has alternative housing, and Pilbin has at times said she lives at an uncle's property in Windsor, Conn. On Wednesday, the mother and daughter said that property is in the process of a sale and that it is not an option.

The case continues Thursday.
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Equipping the Cell Biology academic community with the necessary tools and knowledge for success

Cactus Communications, a company specialising in science communication and technology, has joined forces with the Indian Society of Cell Biology. This two years partnership aims to enhance academic growth and offer training support to students, postdocs, and researchers in various life sciences fields, highlighting a step forward in academic development.

The 46th All India Cell Biology Conference (AICBC2024), recently organised by the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre. It was a key event for promoting collaboration and sharing knowledge in the field.

Complementing this, Cactus Communications also conducted two webinars in partnership with the Society: 'Writing and structuring your manuscript to make it publish-worthy' and 'The power of conferences, networking, and social media in academia'. These webinars, designed for Ph.D. students and postdocs, focused on manuscript writing and effective networking skills in academia.

Abhishek Goel, Co-Founder & CEO of Cactus Communications shared, Collaborating with the Indian Society of Cell Biology enables us to connect with a diverse spectrum of students, postdocs, and researchers, empowering them through upskilling programmes and offering comprehensive service solutions

Dr Pritha Ray, Principal Investigator, ACTREC and Vice President, Indian Society of Cell Biology commented, Working with Cactus Communications gives our participants access to important resources and insights. The insightful webinars not only enriched our academic community but also created opportunities for new collaborations and skill building.
WASHINGTON, D.C.  The Rutherford Institute is warning against a growing cancel culture mindset within government agencies across the political spectrum that seeks to censor, ostracize and shun those with opposing, disfavored, or politically unpopular viewpoints.

Weighing in before the U.S. Supreme Court with an amicus brief in NRA of Am. v. Vullo, The Rutherford Institute, FIRE, the National Coalition Against Censorship, and the First Amendment Lawyers Association are challenging efforts by a New York state regulator to circumvent the First Amendment and indirectly penalize the National Rifle Association by pressuring regulated insurance companies to disassociate from and stop offering certain services to the pro-gun advocacy group.

Knowing what we know about the governments tendency to attach its own labels to behavior and speech that challenges its authority, these efforts to ostracize those with politically unpopular viewpoints should be cause for alarm across the entire political spectrum, said constitutional attorney John W. Whitehead, president of The Rutherford Institute and author of Battlefield America: The War on the American People. Whatever government-driven censorship we tolerate now are destined to serve as the building blocks for greater acts of tyranny.

In October 2017, the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) opened an investigation into an NRA-endorsed insurance program called Carry Guard, which provided coverage for losses caused by licensed firearm use, including criminal defense costs resulting from the intentional use of a firearm in wrongdoing, which was a violation of New York law. DFS Superintendent Maria Vullo met with one of the insurance companies under investigation, which was facing millions in fines, and explained how the company could come into compliance, including by no longer providing insurance to gun groups like the NRA. Vullo also sought the companys aid in DFSs campaign against gun groups following the February 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Florida. Later, Vullo called upon banks and insurance companies doing business in New York to consider the risks, including reputational risks, which might arise from doing business with the NRA, urging them to join others that had discontinued their associations with the NRA. Multiple entities publicly severed their ties or determined not to do business with the NRA.

In response, the NRA filed a First Amendment lawsuit against Vullo. While the district court would have allowed that claim to proceed to trial, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals ordered the case to be dismissed. Noting that government officials can address issues of public concern as long as they do not use their regulatory powers to coerce entities into refraining from protected speech, the Second Circuit concluded that Vullo did not appear to have crossed the line between proper attempts to convince and improper attempts to coerce. But pointing to Vullos words, the perception of a threat for companies continuing to do business with the NRA, and the power of DFS regulatory authority as factors showing improper coercion to indirectly censor the NRA, the amici are urging the Supreme Court to make clear that government officials cannot sidestep the First Amendment by framing censorship demands as informal requests.

Robert Corn-Revere, Ronald G. London, Will Creeley, and Joshua A. House with FIRE advanced the arguments in the amicus brief in NRA v. Vullo.

The Rutherford Institute, a nonprofit civil liberties organization, provides legal assistance at no charge to individuals whose constitutional rights have been threatened or violated and educates the public on a wide spectrum of issues affecting their freedoms.
AICHI, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - A spate of violent attacks by a gang of four men on the streets of Ichinomiya in central Japan on Sunday evening has left one man with head injuries.

A man in his twenties was walking home in the small town of Kisogawa when suddenly he was struck from behind with a metal bat by a group of four men at around 6:30 PM.

The assailants stole the man's bag, which contained cash and his driver's license, and left the scene without uttering a word.

The victim suffered head injuries and was transported to the hospital, but fortunately, his life is not in danger.

According to police, one of the four men was wearing a neck warmer.

Approximately 20 minutes before this incident, another attack occurred on a street about 600 meters away, where a 52-year-old man was suddenly assaulted by a group of four men wielding a bat. The police are investigating this as a robbery and assault case, including the likelihood the same group is responsible.

Source: ANN
TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - "In the year of Tensho 15 (1587), the fifth-generation Fuma Kotaro lived in a war-torn world swirling with malevolent spirits. 'To survive is to keep killing'... With only this thought, he overcame thousands of brushes with death, but was finally captured and lost his life. In the brief moment he thought everything was over, 'The One Who Watches Over the World' reached out to Kotaro. That instant... reincarnation occurred, and Fuma Kotaro was revived in another world...!!"

Currently serialized on LINE Manga and updated every Monday, "Ninpo Isekai Tensei  Fuma Kotaro Returns to Being Human in Another World" by Kurotaro takes readers on an epic journey. Set during the Sengoku period in the vicinity of Kanto, it tells the tale of a ninja operating in the shadows, embodying the tragic nature of the shinobi.

In the 2000s, anime and light novels have popularized the "isekai tensei" (another world reincarnation) genre, which has now become well-established in the manga world. "Commushou, Isekai e Iku," currently serialized on LINE Manga, is one such title that has gained popularity.

In recent times, enjoying dramas and manga on smartphones has become the norm. Users now watch content during their spare time through streaming and apps, prioritizing cost-effectiveness and type, seeking comfort. Naturally, creators are also.

Previously, titles like "Oshi no Ko" have topped the charts and are considered gateways to success, dubbed the "Next Manga Awards." This year, nearly 5000 works were entered, and ranking 19th in the "Web Manga Division".

While webtoons, the popular vertical-scrolling manga from Japan, are gaining attention, it is often the works of South Korean authors that are currently the talk of the town. Amid this, a Japanese work ranked 20th in the LINE Manga rankings for the first half of 2023.

With the global popularity of webtoons centered in South Korea, Japanese companies are increasingly entering the market, and domestic works are on the rise.

Source: Oricon
John Travolta has spoken of his pride at hosting Britain's Prince Harry at an aviation awards ceremony, almost 40 years after he danced with his mother at the White House.

Harry and the Grease star were pictured together at the Living Legends of Aviation ceremony in Los Angeles, hosted by the aviation ambassador and keen pilot (69).

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Harry was recognised for his work as a British army veteran and pilot at the ceremony and in his speech he told Travolta it would be fitting for them to fly together after the actor famously spun his mother, Princess Diana, around the dancefloor.

He said: 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.

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Diana, who died following a car crash in 1997, made front pages around the world when she was photographed with Travolta on the dancefloor at a gala dinner at the White House in November 1985.

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John Travolta dancing with Diana, Princess of Wales at a White House dinner in Washington (Ronald Reagan Library/AP/Alamy)

Saturday Night Fever actor Travolta shared a photo of himself and Harry at the event, alongside Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez.

Helicopter pilot Sanchez was also honoured at the ceremony on Friday, where she was presented with the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award.

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Travolta captioned the picture: I was so proud to host Prince Harry, Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez at Living Legends of Aviation awards event Friday night.

Congrats to both Prince Harry and Lauren on their awards!!

During his speech at the ceremony, Harry described flying as 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.

He added that flight training was one of lifes greatest lessons.

The awards ceremony, held at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, honoured those who make significant contributions to aviation and aerospace.

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Harry completed two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot, having flown countless training missions in the UK, the 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.
Sir Anthony Hopkins has announced he is writing his biography and said his wife is also memorialising his life with a documentary.

The 86-year-old actor, most known for playing Hannibal Lecter in 1991 film The Silence Of The Lambs, described writing his life story as a weird process.

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Speaking to US publication People, he said: Im writing a biography.

I realised how Im blessed with one thing, he added.

Maybe its my actors brain. I do have quite a memory.

I remember days of months in the years.

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Sir Anthony Hopkins with his wife Stella Arroyave (Andrew Matthews/PA)

His wife of 20 years, Stella Arroyave, is working on a documentary about the actor, who won an Oscar in 1992 for playing serial killer Hannibal and in 2021 for his role in drama The Father, about a man dealing with dementia.

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Hopkins said she has carte blanche to (cover) everything.

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Speaking about how far along she is with the project, he said: I dont know. I dont ask her.

Its quite a lot of film. I dont know when its going to come out.

Hopkins is widely considered to be one of the worlds greatest living actors and in his career he has played a number of historical figures including former American president Richard Nixon in 1995 film Nixon and artist Pablo Picasso in 1996 movie Surviving Picasso.

Most recently he played Pope Benedict XVI in 2019 film The Two Popes and the founder of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, in the 2023 drama Freuds Last Session, starring Matthew Goode as the writer CS Lewis.
The President and Taoiseach have led tributes to Senator David Norris as he formally announced his retirement from political life after 36 years.

Mr Norris, a colourful activist for decades, campaigned to abolish the States anti-homosexuality laws in the 1980s and pushed for progress on LGBT rights.

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He was first elected to the Seanad in 1987 and has been re-elected in each election since then, making him the States longest-serving senator.

The independent senator for the University of Dublin also holds the longest continuous period of service in the upper house of the Oireachtas.

His fellow senators described him as the lily amongst the briars, one of the countrys finest debaters and a champion for the under-privileged.

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Senator David Norris in his final appearance before Seanad Eireann (Oireachtas TV/Screenshot/PA)

In his final address in the Seanad chamber, Mr Norris said he wished to use the time to call for peace for Palestinians.

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Mr Norris, who speaks Hebrew, said: What is happening to the inhabitants of Gaza is appalling and cannot be allowed to continue.

Mans inhumanity to man is our greatest shame and I have to say also that it goes completely against the Jewish ethic which is LChaim  to life.

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This present government under (Benjamin) Netanyahu has committed them instead of to life, to death. To death in overwhelming numbers for the unfortunate trapped citizens of Gaza. I deplore it completely.

He also said that he will be campaigning for a Yes vote in the upcoming referenda on amending the Irish Constitution.

He thanked his parliamentary assistant Miriam Gordon Smith, his election agent Brian Murray, the graduates who voted for him over the years, and his fellow colleagues in the Seanad.

Cathaoirleach Jerry Buttimer said that President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar had conveyed their appreciation to Mr Norris.

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Mr Higgins said he had an illustrious career and a courage beyond the ordinary, describing him as a champion of equality, diversity that will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr Varadkar praised his campaigning on behalf of LGBT issues, women and minority groups, and said he showed true leadership standing up for causes that were unpopular, poorly understood, but appealing to our best instincts as human beings.

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Mr Buttimer, who is gay, said he owed him a huge debt of gratitude.

Your passion hasnt diminished as we can see from that final contribution, Mr Buttimer added.

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As a member of the house, you have sponsored 34 Bills, and one as recently as February last year on domestic violence, which speaks to your lifetime commitment on social issues.

Your Bills covered a wide, diverse range of topics, yet your primary focus was on issues on human rights and equalities  from the abolition of the death penalty, housing and homelessness, disability rights, mental health, the protection of the native Irish honey bee and (a ban on) conversion therapies.
Updated at 11:58

Two orange wind warnings have been issued by Met Eireann as Storm Jocelyn approaches the country.

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A warning for Donegal will bring very strong southwest to west winds with severe and damaging gusts.

They are warning of large coastal waves with waves overtopping, difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees, damage to power lines and damage to weakened structures.

The warning for Donegal comes into effect at 6pm on Tuesday and last until 3pm on Wednesday.

The other orange wind warning has also been issued for Galway and Mayo and is valid from 6pm on Tuesday to 12am on Wednesday.

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Yellow Wind Warning



Very strong & gusty SW to W winds



Onset from 12:00 & 17:00 depending on your area



For more info on warnings, times & regions please visithttps://t.co/w5QtJ1UyEP pic.twitter.com/2r7JioFUSY Advertisement  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 22, 2024

Yellow wind warnings are also in place for the rest of the country from 12pm on Tuesday until 5am on Wednesday.

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It comes as a total of 235,000 farms and businesses are without power this morning after Storm Isha brought down trees and power lines overnight.

ESB Networks is warning it could be a number of days before power is fully restored to all households.

Red and orange wind warnings are now over, but yellow alerts remain in place for counties Clare, Donegal, Leitrim, Galway, Mayo and Sligo.

Storm Isha Update:



Currently 235,000 homes, businesses, and farms are without electricity this morning post #stormIsha. Our technicians are on the ground since first light, and we've enlisted additional support to aid restoration efforts. pic.twitter.com/ZnMRLso0ol Advertisement  ESB Networks (@ESBNetworks) January 22, 2024

The strongest gust recorded overnight was 150 kilometres per hour in Clew Bay,

Met Eireann is warning of very strong and gusty westerly winds. Potential impacts include large coastal waves with wave overtopping, difficult travelling conditions and debris being displaced.

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In Northern Ireland, a yellow wind warning is in place for Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry.

The UK Met Office said strong winds associated with Storm Isha are likely to bring some disruption to travel and utilities across the UK on Sunday and Monday.

That warning is from 12am on Sunday to 12pm on Monday.

They said ESB Networks crews are responding where safe to do so.

Given the extent of the storm, estimated restoration times will be updated through Monday and will be available on www.PowerCheck.ie and www.ESBNetworks.ie as restoration work progresses.

ESB Networks continue to monitor the impact of Storm Isha closely, switching customers back remotely where possible.

However, due to the extent of damage to the network and adverse weather conditions, the majority of homes, farms and businesses currently impacted will remain without supply overnight.

Their storm response plans have been in effect since Sunday and crews will mobilise again at first light to assess the damage, making the network safe and restoring electricity supply where safe to do so.
A young man has been jailed for his role in the robbery of two mobile phones from a group of teenage boys on a Dart.

Cian Jones (22) was described in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court as the ringleader of four young men who were involved in the robbery of mobile phones from four teenage boys on a northbound Dart between Dun Laoghaire and Tara Street stations.

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The other three males have not yet been identified.

Jones, of O'Farrell House, Cumberland Street North, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and two of attempted robbery on June 20th, 2022.

Imposing the sentence on Monday, Judge Dara Hayes said the four teenagers had the extraordinary misfortune to meet Jones and his acquaintances while making their way home from Dun Laoghaire.

He described the offending as serious and said the victims were entitled to travel on the Dart without being set upon.

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The court heard that the four teenage victims were on their way home and were each sitting by a window when a group of four males, including Jones, entered the carriage.

This group walked past the teenage boys, then turned back and sat beside them, effectively blocking the victims in.

The investigating garda said the victims described Jones as the ringleader. He demanded to see their phones, threatening to hurt them unless they handed over their devices. Jones also made threats to stab them and reached into his trousers, though no knife was produced.

Three iPhones and a Samsung A52 were handed over, but a blue iPhone along with the Samsung were returned to their owners.

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One of the boys handed his iPhone 12 to one of the individuals with Jones, while an iPhone 11 was also taken.

Jones swapped seats with one of his group and demanded that the owners of two iPhones carry out a factory reset on their phones.

He became aggressive when one of the teenagers could not remember his iCloud password.

Jones also demanded cash from the teenagers, but they did not have any, the court heard.

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He made further threats and told the boys not to make a report to gardai.

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After Jones got off the Dart, the boys remained on board until Connolly Station, where they contacted their parents.

Fear

One of the boys whose iPhone was stolen prepared a victim impact statement. He said he saved up for several months to buy the phone and is now nervous about using public transport.

He said he has not been to Dun Laoghaire since this incident, and his parents are concerned if he has to use public transport.

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Jones was identified from CCTV. He has a number of previous conviction, including three for robbery, and is currently serving a sentence for another matter.

The investigating garda agreed with Justin McQuade BL, defending, that Jones's earliest release date for his current sentence is next October.

It was further accepted that Jones had a difficult upbringing, is doing well in custody, and was co-operative with gardai.

The court heard Jones spent time in State care and has experienced homelessness since he reached his 18th birthday.

Jones told the court he is serving a sentence in Wheatfield Prison, where he is doing his Leaving Certificate and completing a Gaisce award. He has also undertaken several courses while in custody.

The court heard the accused left school at 14 and has ADHD. He said his parents had addiction issues and he is close to his grandmother, who is in poor health.

Credible threat

Mr McQuade asked the court to take into consideration his client's early guilty plea and personal circumstances when imposing sentence.

A psychological report and a recent probation report were handed into court.

Judge Dara Hayes noted while it is not clear if Jones had a knife, the threats were severe and credible enough for the teenagers to hand over their phones, though two of the devices were not of sufficient quality to rob and were handed back.

He said the aggravating factors include the young age of the victims, the threats made and Jones's previous convictions.

Judge Hayes noted the mitigating features include his early guilty plea, his personal circumstances and the steps taken towards rehabilitation.

He handed Jones a four and half year sentence backdated to December 12th. He suspended the final 18 months on strict conditions, including that Jones place himself under the supervision of the Probation Service.

Addressing Jones directly, Judge Hayes said the court hoped he would take advantage of the supports that are available to him and that he continues on the path towards rehabilitation.

The court wishes you a very happy, law-abiding life, he added.
Saudi Arabias foreign minister has said the kingdom will not normalise relations with Israel or contribute to Gazas reconstruction without a credible pathway to a Palestinian state.

Prince Faisal bin Farhans remarks in an interview with CNN broadcast on Sunday were some of the most direct yet to come from Saudi officials on the Gaza conflict.

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It puts the kingdom at odds with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has rejected Palestinian statehood and described plans for open-ended military control over Gaza.

The dispute over Gazas future  coming as the war still rages with no end in sight  pits the United States and its Arab allies against Israel and poses a major obstacle to any plans for post-war governance or reconstruction in Gaza.

Israeli soldiers move on armoured personnel carriers near the Israeli-Gaza border. Photo: AP.

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Before the October 7th Hamas attack that triggered the war, the US had been trying to broker a landmark agreement in which Saudi Arabia would normalise relations with Israel in exchange for US security guarantees, aid in establishing a civilian nuclear programme in the kingdom, and progress toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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In September, Mr Netanyahu had said Israel was at the cusp of such a deal, which he said would transform the Middle East.

In the interview with CNNs Fareed Zakaria GPS, the host asked the Saudi foreign minister: Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

Prince Faisal replied: Thats the only way were going to get a benefit. So, yes.

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Earlier in the interview, when asked if oil-rich Saudi Arabia would finance reconstruction in Gaza  where Israels air and ground offensive has devastated vast swathes of the impoverished territory  Prince Faisal gave a similar answer.

A protester wears a shirt depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a demonstration to demand the release of the hostages taken by Hamas militants. Photo: AP.

As long as were able to find a pathway to a solution, a resolution, a pathway that means that were not going to be here again in a year or two, then we can talk about anything, he said.

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But if we are just resetting to the status quo before October 7, in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, were not interested in that conversation.

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The Palestinians seek a state that would include Gaza, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war.

Israel views all of Jerusalem as its capital and the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people.

It has built scores of settlements across both territories that are home to hundreds of thousands of Jewish settlers. The last of several rounds of peace talks broke down nearly 15 years ago.

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The current war between Israel and Hamas, the fifth and by far deadliest, began when Palestinian militants broke through Israels defences and rampaged through several nearby communities, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, taking around 250 people hostage and shattering Israelis sense of security.

The war in Gaza: 100 days in 100 photos



The crisis in#Gaza is a man-made disaster compounded by dehumanizing language and the use of food, water and fuel as instruments of war.



There is endless chaos and growing despair.https://t.co/2GPrcGYkFa pic.twitter.com/2s0tso1rGe  UNRWA (@UNRWA) January 17, 2024

Israels offensive has killed at least 25,105 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-ruled territory. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children.

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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 residential areas.

Some 85 per cent of Gazas population of 2.3 million have fled their homes, seeking elusive shelter in the south as Israel continues to strike all parts of the besieged enclave.

UN officials say one in four people in Gaza are starving as the ongoing fighting and Israeli restrictions hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid.

A woman shouts slogans during a protest in support of Palestinians and calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza in Madrid, Spain. Photo: AP.

The war has also stoked tensions across the region, with Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen attacking Israeli and US targets as the risk of a wider conflict grows.

Mr Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until complete victory over Hamas and to return all of the remaining hostages after more than 100 were released in a cease-fire deal in November in exchange for scores of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.

But Israelis are increasingly divided on the question of whether that outcome is possible.

Hamas is believed to be holding the hostages in tunnels deep underground and using them as shields for its top leaders.

Israel has only successfully rescued one hostage, while Hamas says several have been killed in Israeli air strikes or during failed rescue operations.

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At the #WEF24, I spoke with UK Foreign Secretary @David_Cameron to discuss efforts to support Ukraine and promote a more secure, stable, and peaceful future for the Middle East region. pic.twitter.com/mzrW0GkQL4  Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) January 17, 2024

On Monday, dozens of family members of the hostages stormed into a finance committee meeting in Israels Parliament, yelling: You wont sit here while they are dying there!

Some had to be physically restrained as they shouted at the lawmakers, and at least one person was escorted out.

Moshe Gafni, the chair of the committee, said he understood their pain and called for a break from the meeting, which was in the process of approving budgets for communities near Gaza.

Families of the hostages, as well as other protesters, have set up a tent camp outside Mr Netanyahus residence in Jerusalem and vowed to remain until a deal is reached with Hamas to bring the rest of the hostages home. Other protests have called for new elections.

Hamas has said it will only free more captives in exchange for an end to the war and the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu has ruled out such an agreement and says military pressure is key to securing the release of more hostages.

Mr Netanyahu, whose popularity has plummeted since October 7th, faces pressure from the US  Israels top ally  to shift to more precise military operations, do more to facilitate humanitarian aid and embrace post-war plans with broad support across the region.

But Mr Netanyahus governing coalition is beholden to far-right parties that want to step up the offensive, encourage the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza, and re-establish Jewish settlements there.
Polish prime minister Donald Tusk has vowed to keep supporting Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion  and to resolve differences between Warsaw and Kyiv over grain shipments and trucking.

Mr Tusk, who returned to power last month and is keen to show that a change in government will not alter Polands Ukraine policy, also met his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal.

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Mr Tusk said on X, according to comments released by his office: There are some conflicts of interest, we know it well, and we will talk about them, but not only in the spirit of friendship, which is obvious, but with the attitude to solve these problems as soon as possible, not to maintain or multiply them.

For me, it is very important to build the feeling that Poland is the most reliable, most stable ally of Ukraine in this deadly clash with evil.

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Mr Zelenskiy said Warsaw will provide a new defensive package (AP)

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Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Kyiv will get a new defensive package from Poland.

He said on social media: Theres a new form of our interaction for increasing the scale of arms purchases  a Polish loan to Ukraine.

Mr Tusks visit came a day after Moscow-installed officials in eastern Ukraine reported that Ukrainian shelling killed 27 people on the outskirts of Russian-occupied Donetsk.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called it a monstrous terrorist act, and the Russia-backed local authorities declared a day of mourning.

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The Ukrainian military, however, denied it had anything to do with the attack.

Mr Tusk recently returned to power in Poland (AP)

Ukraines allies have recently sought to reassure the country that they are committed to its long-term defence amid concerns that Western support could be sagging. UK prime minister Rishi Sunak and Frances new foreign minister also travelled to Kyiv in the new year.

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Located on Natos eastern flank, Poland has been one of Ukraines strongest allies. Warsaw has provided weapons and humanitarian aid, and opened its borders to Ukrainian refugees since Moscow invaded on February 24th, 2022.

However, relations soured last year as economic competition from Ukrainian food producers and truckers angered Poles who said their livelihoods were under threat.

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Polish farmers and truckers blocked border crossings, causing back-ups and threatening the flow of some aid to Ukraine.

The farmers had complained that imports of Ukrainian foods had caused prices to fall, hurting their incomes, while truckers said they were being undercut by their Ukrainian counterparts.

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The issue surfaced during the war as Ukrainian ports were blocked and food producers turned to road routes through Europe to get their products to market.

At one point, Poland and some other European nations banned Ukrainian grain imports because of the trade dispute.

Polands farmers and trucks have ended the protests for now, but Mr Tusk is seeking ways of addressing their concerns.

He has said Warsaw wants to help Ukraine economically but not at the expense of Polish businesses. He has suggested that Kyiv needs to better regulate its trucking industry.

Mr Tusk is also scheduled to honour the countrys fighters and attend observances of Ukraines Day of Unity, which commemorates the merger in 1919 that brought together its eastern and western regions.

As part of the celebration, Mr Zelenskiy signed a decree that, among other things, instructs the government to preserve the national identity of Ukrainians living in border regions that are now part of Russia, such as Belgorod, Kursk and Briansk. Some of those areas have recently been targeted by Kyivs forces.

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The decree also aims to establish a centre for investigating crimes against Ukrainians on those territories, including forced Russification, political persecutions, and deportations.

In other developments, Ukraines air force said it intercepted all eight Shahed drones that Russia launched overnight over southern and central regions of Ukraine.

Debris from three drones shot down over the central Dnipropetrovsk region started a fire at an unidentified business, but no casualties were reported.

Elsewhere, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited Kharkiv on the third day of his tour of the country. The second-largest city was among the targets of a January 16 Russian missile attack that injured 17 civilians.

Later, Mr Grandi visited children at a school that has relocated to the citys subway system.

Meanwhile, major Ukrainian digital banking platform Monobank said it came under a massive denial-of-service attack by unidentified hackers. The attack was successfully repelled, the bank said, with no major consequences.
The Republican presidential primary in New Hampshire on Tuesday offers no shortage of intrigue.

While it will provide an opportunity for frontrunner Donald Trump to demonstrate that he may be unstoppable in his march to the Republican nomination, it also gives challenger Nikki Haley a shot to show that Mr Trump can be vulnerable.

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The contest between Mr Trump and Ms Haley is expected to be closer than the result in Iowa last week. Mr Trump vanquished Ms Haley, who served as his United Nations ambassador, and his other remaining rival, Florida governor Ron DeSantis, by 30 percentage points in the state's caucuses.

Mr DeSantis dropped out of the race on Sunday, giving Ms Haley the two-person primary contest she has long sought.

Heres a look at the stakes for Mr Trump and Ms Haley ahead of the New Hampshire vote:

Donald Trump

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The former US president has held packed rallies in New Hampshire virtually every day in the run-up to the primary, a hectic pace for a candidate who usually prefers to pick his spots. But theres a simple reason why. He wants this. Badly.

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Mr Trump and his aides want to convince Ms Haley, her voters and her donors as well as the media covering the campaign that the race is over and Mr Trump will be the nominee. Get aboard the train.

Mr Trump beating Ms Haley by a significant margin would go a long way toward accomplishing that.

Conversely, the Trump camp is aware that a close finish would send the opposite signal - that a hefty portion of the Republican electorate is still looking for someone else.

Ms Haley would claim momentum heading in next months primary in her home state of South Carolina, where she was governor. Money likely would keep flowing in to keep her bid alive.

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Thats a worst-case scenario for Mr Trump, but he would remain the favourite for the nomination to take on Democratic president Joe Biden in November regardless.

Nikki Haley

A win by Ms Haley in New Hampshire would amount to a political earthquake.

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An upset would wipe away the aura of inevitability that Mr Trump has carried for months, and it would energise the anti-Trump forces in the party.

Ms Haley could then to proceed to South Carolina as a viable Trump alternative, with her making the argument that she represents the future of the party and he the past. The battle would be joined and the final result uncertain.

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A close second-place finish by Ms Haley wouldnt quite accomplish the same thing but still would allow her to contend that the anti-Trump vote should coalesce around her -particularly now that Mr DeSantis is out of the race.

Polls have shown Mr DeSantis' supporters are more likely to switch their support to Mr Trump than Ms Haley. But Mr DeSantis' exit gives Ms Haley the opportunity to chase voters of his who want to turn the page on Mr Trump and install a new generation of leadership.

Whether a strong showing in New Hampshire would ultimately help her compete with Mr Trump in South Carolina and down the road would remain to be seen, but she would have a legitimate rationale for staying in the fight.

A convincing Trump victory would be devastating for Ms Haley, robbing her of any claim of viability. It would show that Mr Trumps support is so broad across the party that there would be little hope of derailing him. -Reuters
TOKYO, Jan 22 (Japan by Food) - In this exciting video, join Shizuka as she explores the delightful world of strawberries in Tokyo!

The journey begins at Ichigo House in Mitaka, where Shizuka hand-picks fresh and juicy strawberries straight from the vine and taste the king of Japanese desserts: Ichigo daifuku!

Then, Shizuka takes you to Soratsuki at Tsukiji Market, where she indulges in the best ichigo-daifuku the market has to offer. The ichigo-daifuku there is the perfect combination of soft, chewy mochi and a luscious strawberries.

The city adventure finishes off at a local cafe where guests can enjoy a mouthwatering strawberry daifuku tart. This delectable treat is a harmonious blend of mochi and strawberries, creating a unique dessert that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Source: Japan by Food
Donald Trump has celebrated one-time Republican rival Ron DeSantis as his newest supporter after the Florida governor ended his presidential campaign and endorsed the former president.

For Mr Trump, it has become a familiar ritual to welcome the backing of someone who once tried to take him on.

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Nonetheless, it was notable at Sundays rally in New Hampshire to see Mr Trump praise Mr DeSantis without calling him DeSantimonious or DeSanctus, putting an end to perhaps the most bitter rivalry of Republicans 2024 campaign.

I just want to thank Ron and congratulate him on doing a very good job, Mr Trump said at the outset of his remarks.



Mr DeSantis finished in second place in last weeks Iowa caucuses (Michael Dwyer/AP, File)

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He was very gracious, and he endorsed me. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron.

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Mr Trump described Mr DeSantis as a really terrific person.

Earlier in the day, Mr DeSantis said via video that he would be ending his campaign two days before New Hampshires first-in-the-nation Republican primary.

But, Mr Trumps glee on Sunday night aside, it was not the warmest of endorsements.

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Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, Mr DeSantis said, offering matter-of-fact analysis through a forced smile without adding plaudits for Mr Trump.

I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honour that pledge, he continued, before adding a dig at the remaining contender, Nikki Haley.

Mr DeSantis described the former UN ambassador and one-time South Carolina governor as a stand-in for the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism.

Mr Trump seemed unbothered by Mr DeSantis approach, striking a tone of camaraderie as fellow political combatants.

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I will tell you its not easy, Mr Trump said on Sunday night in Rochester.

They think its easy doing this stuff, right? Its not easy.

The former president seemed to revel in skewering Mr DeSantis throughout the campaign, often making clear it was a personal grudge because he considered the governors decision to run in the first place an act of disloyalty.

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Nikki Haley is Mr Trumps final rival for the Republican nomination (Matt Rourke/AP)

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Mr Trump endorsed Mr DeSantis, then a congressman, in a competitive 2018 Republican primary for Florida governor.

Mr DeSantis went on to win the nomination and the general election. By the time Mr DeSantis won a landslide re-election four years later, though, he was positioning himself for his own White House campaign.

As recently as November, Mr Trump came to Florida and addressed a boisterous crowd at a state Republican meeting standing in front of a sign that read: Florida is Trump Country.

That evening, Mr Trump did not mention Mr DeSantis until more than 30 minutes into his speech. Even then, it was to brag about polls showing his advantages over the governor.

I endorsed him, and he became a rocket ship in 24 hours, Mr Trump said, claiming that Mr DeSantis had begged for his endorsement.

Now hes like a wounded falling bird from the sky.

Mr Trump never did debate Mr DeSantis or any other 2024 rival. He has said he would not until one proves they are a legitimate threat to him winning the nomination.

Mr DeSantis concentrated his campaign in recent months in Iowa, where he finished in second place in last weeks caucuses  30 percentage points behind Mr Trump and barely ahead of Ms Haley.

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Ms Haley, meanwhile, has long prioritised New Hampshire as a potential springboard ahead of her home-state South Carolina primary next month.

In Iowa, APVoteCast surveys of caucusgoers suggested Mr DeSantiss supporters were much more likely than Ms Haleys to consider themselves conservatives who would back Mr Trump no matter what if he wins the nomination and faces President Joe Biden in November.

If that trend holds in New Hampshire, then Mr Trump could expect at least some boost from Mr DeSantis dropping out, and whatever he gets could stretch out his margin and frustrate Ms Haleys ability to claim any momentum.

Indeed, Mr Trumps aides have said they expect Mr DeSantis support around the country will shift heavily to Mr Trump.

Mr Trump noted on Sunday that he won New Hampshires 2016 primary by about 20 points. He lost the battleground state twice in general elections.
Downing Street has denied that the UK government is pursuing an agenda against the BBC following a raft of reforms proposed as part of a mid-term review into the corporation.

UK culture secretary Lucy Frazer announced on Monday that the UK's media regulator Ofcom could gain enforcement action over BBC News website articles it does not believe meet relevant broadcast standards.

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Currently, the communications regulator is only able to issue an opinion, but government recommendations say Ofcom will be given increased oversight over the BBCs online public services, including its YouTube channel.

Ms Frazer also said she believes the BBC has been biased on occasion when discussing these new measures.

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The UK prime ministers official spokesperson replied no when asked if the UK government is pursuing an agenda against the corporation.

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He added the proposed measures were rightly about ensuring the BBC is able to continue to thrive long into the future.

The spokesperson declined to say whether Rishi Sunak believed the BBC is biased and also said: Its for Ofcom to hold the BBC to account against its responsibilities in the charter.

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In December, the UK government announced that the increase in the television licence fee would be lower than expected, putting more pressure on its finances after a two-year freeze.

On Monday, Ms Frazer said: I think that on occasion it (the BBC) has been biased, citing coverage of a hospital attack in Gaza.

The UK culture secretary refused to say which other broadcasters she believed might be impartial, saying they were in totally different positions from the publicly funded corporation.

She told Sky News that evidence suggested there was a perception amongst audiences that there was some bias at the BBC.

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When it was put to her that perceptions are not necessarily reality, Ms Frazer said: There are only perceptions and perceptions are important.

"Do you think the BBC is biased?"



Culture Secretary @lucyfrazermp tells @KayBurley 'on occasion the BBC has been biased'



Read more  https://t.co/B9czZ3oXHf



 Sky 501 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/KlQkFIqxU8 Advertisement  Sky News (@SkyNews) January 22, 2024 Advertisement

Whats important about the BBC is that its funded by the public, so the perception of audiences of the public are important.

Her remarks were criticised by shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire on X, formerly Twitter.

Ms Debbonaire, Labour MP for Bristol West, called Ms Frazer just the latest in a long line of Secretaries of State for Culture Wars.

She also said the British government should stop using the BBC as a punching bag and instead support it to create wealth, jobs and joy.

Ms Frazer had previously told MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee that she would not go into any specific examples of the examples of bias at the BBC.

In a separate Monday interview, the minister declined to say whether she thinks it is right for someone on a six-figure salary to pay the same TV licence fee as someone on minimum wage, suggesting it was not a simple question when the review is ongoing.

Ms Frazer told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Im putting together an expert panel to look at how the media market is changing.

Thats a very, very complex issue which will require expert evidence on what revenues does the BBC need, what can it do commercially that its not doing at the moment?

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She said she would be led by evidence in her review.

Lucy Frazer said the perception of audiences of the public are important Photo: James Manning/PA.

The British government said its recommendations are expected to be implemented in a timely manner, following talks with the BBC and Ofcom.

Ofcom, which has authority over TV, radio and video-on-demand services through a broadcasting code, has also been given a new legally binding responsibility to review more of the BBCs complaints decisions.

Alongside the Ofcom reforms is a legal responsibility for the BBC board to actively oversee its own complaints process.

The review also recommends that the BBC considers how diversity and opinion could be better represented, as the Government says some audience groups, including disabled viewers and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, feel under represented by the corporation.

Ms Frazer said the corporation needs to adapt to the reforms or risk losing the trust of the audience it relies on.

The BBCs complaints process, called BBC First, was introduced at the last charter review in 2017, and the mid-term review concluded that it does allow licence fee payers to hold the BBC directly accountable, but said impartiality continues to be an ongoing issue for audiences.

Under BBC First, audience complaints are normally addressed by the corporation before they can be escalated to Ofcom.

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To improve the complaints process, the BBC board, which previously had a responsibility to oversee only the establishment of a complaints handling process, will now oversee the process as a whole.

Non-executive board directors and external advisers on the BBCs Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee will also be given greater powers to scrutinise and challenge BBC senior managements complaints handling.

Furthermore, the job role that has responsibility for complaints handling will now report directly to the director-general rather than the director responsible for editorial policy, to separate pre-broadcast editorial policy and post-broadcast complaints resolution.

The review has also recommended the BBC develop a public strategy that outlines its intended partnerships with others and said the impact of commercial changes, including the introduction of a BBC Commercial Board in 2022, needs to be closely monitored.

A BBC spokesperson said no other organisation takes its commitment to impartiality more seriously and it has well-established and detailed plans to sustain and further improve standards.

They added: We know this matters to audiences and the BBC continues to be the number one source for trusted news, with the highest scores for impartiality and accuracy.

During discussions over the mid-term review, we proposed and implemented a number of reforms, including strengthening our complaints procedures, which now form part of the conclusions.

We are pleased the British government has fully taken our proposals onboard. We remain committed to continuous improvement to ensure we deliver for all licence fee payers.

The BBC is operationally and editorially independent, and we will continue to engage constructively with the Government, and our regulator Ofcom, over the second half of this charter and as we look ahead to a new charter in 2028.
Elon Musk, who has been accused of allowing antisemitic messages on his social media platform, X, has visited the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp.

Mr Musks visit at the most notorious site of the horrors of the Holocaust came before a scheduled appearance later on Monday at a conference on antisemitism organised by the European Jewish Association (EJA) in the nearby Polish city of Krakow.

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The billionaire has faced accusations from the Anti-Defamation League, a prominent Jewish civil rights organisation, and others of tolerating antisemitic messages on the platform, formerly known as Twitter, since purchasing it in 2022.

He sparked an outcry in November, including from the White House, when he responded on X to a user who accused Jews of hating white people and professing indifference to antisemitism by posting: You have said the actual truth.

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Mr Musk visited the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi German death camp in Oswiecim. Photo: EJA/Yoav Dudkevitch via AP.

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Mr Musk later apologised for the comment, calling it the dumbest post that hes ever done.

Several big brands, including Disney and IBM, stopped advertising on the platform last year after liberal advocacy group Media Matters said that their ads were appearing alongside pro-Nazi content and white nationalist posts.

X has since sued Media Matters, saying the Washington-based non-profit manufactured the report to drive advertisers from the platform and destroy X Corp.

Mr Musk was photographed visiting the Birkenau site together with Daily Wire podcaster Ben Shapiro, who was also set to attend the EJA conference.

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Birkenau is a village near Oswiecim, in southern Poland, fenced off with barbed wire, where wooden barracks for the prisoners and the ruins of a gas chamber endure as evidence of Nazi crimes, and where a monument to the victims stands. International ceremonies are held there each year.

Mr Musk had been expected to make the visit on Tuesday and take part in a memorial service, together with political figures attending the EJA conference in Krakow, but showed up at the Nazi death camp on Monday instead.

Mr Musk had faced criticism for subscribing to an antisemitic conspiracy theory and allowing hate messages on his social media platform, X. Photo: EJA/Yoav Dudkevitch via AP.

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The EJA said: Due to schedule concerns, before Elon Musks arrival to the European Jewish Association conference, he took part in a private visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with EJA chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Ben Shapiro and Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev.

Musk laid a wreath at the wall of death and took part in a short memorial ceremony and service by the Birkenau memorial.

Mr Musk was set to discuss antisemitism online with Mr Shapiro at the conference in Krakow, which was held before International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27th.

More than 1.1 million people were murdered by the Nazis and their henchmen at Auschwitz during the Second World War.

Most who were killed were Jews, but the victims also included Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others.

In all, about six million European Jews died during the Holocaust. When the Soviets liberated the camp, they found about 7,000 survivors.
Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis dropped out of his party's presidential nominating race on Sunday. Here are some of the missteps made by the Florida governor and his campaign.

Faulty strategy, burned through cash

Mr DeSantis began 2023 looking like a viable alternative to Republican former president Donald Trump. But he never successfully articulated to most Trump supporters why he was a better option, while Republicans looking to ditch the former president split their votes among multiple candidates.

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His campaign was also beset by internal strife. He had several staff shakeups. The campaign also overhired, burning through cash at a rapid rate, and then outsourced much of the traditional work of a campaign to an outside super PAC, which was often at loggerheads with Mr DeSantis' campaign staff.

Waited too long

The governor waited too long to enter the race, which left him open to blistering attacks by Mr Trump, who had announced his campaign more than six months earlier. Allies, advisers and people close to the campaign now concede that Mr DeSantis' reluctance in the weeks before announcing his candidacy to engage with Mr Trump - including on a Japan trip in April 2023 when he said, "I'm not a candidate" - was one of several costly strategic errors.

Twitter launch blunder

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In May, when Mr DeSantis finally announced his presidential bid it was in an online forum on Twitter, now known as X, hosted by its billionaire owner Elon Musk. It was one of the most catastrophic campaign launches in modern US political history.

For nearly 25 glitch-filled minutes, the audio-only feed failed time and again, overshadowing Mr DeSantis' big announcement and undermining his attempt to gain ground on Mr Trump.

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Political analysts said it was a rookie mistake to hold a major event over which Mr DeSantis had no control. He ended his campaign on X as he started it - with a blunder. When he announced he was dropping out of the race, he used a fake quote from former British prime minister Winston Churchill.

Bet all on Iowa

Mr DeSantis bet all on winning the first nominating state of Iowa, a gamble that failed badly. He finished a distant second to Mr Trump in the Iowa caucuses on January 15th, a poor result that essentially ended his bid.

Despite pouring much of his campaign's time and resources into Iowa, including campaigning in all 99 counties in the Midwestern farm state, Mr DeSantis finished almost 30 percentage points behind Trump, and he barely beat former US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley for second place. He also lost all 99 counties.

Ukraine war a 'territorial dispute'

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In March, even before he had officially launched his campaign, Mr DeSantis called Russia's invasion of Ukraine a "territorial dispute" and claimed the war was not a "vital" US interest.

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While those comments reflect the thinking of part of the Republican base, the blowback from several rival candidates and Republican leaders was so strong that Mr DeSantis was forced to walk back those comments a few days later.

It was the first real sign, after Mr DeSantis appeared as a formidable challenger to Mr Trump at the beginning of the year, that he was not as sure-footed a candidate as many had believed.

Abortion ban, teaching of slavery turns off donors

Mr DeSantis signed a series of laws in Florida he believed would burnish his credentials with the right-wing Republican base. That included an April law banning abortions after six weeks and a new series of teaching standards unveiled in July that tells the state's public school pupils that Black people benefited from slavery because it taught them useful skills.

In August, Robert Bigelow, Mr DeSantis' biggest donor, told Reuters he will not donate more money unless Mr DeSantis moderates his policy positions. Mr Bigelow said the Florida abortion ban was his motivating factor.

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Mr DeSantis also received wide condemnation for the slavery provision in Florida's new teaching curriculum. Tim Scott, a fellow Republican White House rival who is Black, decried Florida's new standards, describing slavery as "devastating" for Black families.

Extreme videos that even some Republicans could not stomach

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In June and July, the DeSantis campaign shared videos that were condemned as anti-gay rights and racist, even by some fellow Republicans.

The first ad came at the end of June's Pride Month, when his campaign shared a video highlighting some of Mr Trump's past statements supporting gay rights.

World What's at stake for Trump and Haley in New Hampshi... Read More

The video featured a montage of muscle-bound men, bolts of electricity flying from Mr DeSantis' eyes, and an image of actor Christian Bale in the movie 'American Psycho,' in which he plays a serial killer.

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In July, the DeSantis campaign fired a staffer who had shared a pro-DeSantis video that featured him at the centre of a Sonnenrad, a symbol appropriated by the Nazis in 1930s Germany and still used by white supremacists.

An awkward campaign style on the trail

Mr DeSantis has long had a reputation as being a poor politician when in more intimate settings with voters. On the campaign trail, some of Mr DeSantis' off-the-cuff comments have come off as strange or dissonant.

Last year he vowed to start "slitting throats" inside the federal bureaucracy if he becomes president. Asked if he had watched Mr Trump on August 3rd being arraigned for a third time this year on criminal charges, Mr DeSantis said he had been too busy overseeing an execution in Florida.
The US and UK militaries have bombed multiple sites used by the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, several American officials have said.

It is the second time the two allies have conducted retaliatory strikes on an array of the rebels missile-launching capabilities.

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They used warship- and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets to take out Houthi missile storage sites and launchers, according to the officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The joint operation comes after US and UK warships and jets hit more than 60 targets in 28 locations on Thursday January 11.

That was the first US military response to what has been a persistent campaign of Houthi drone and missile attacks on commercial ships since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October.

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Houthi fighters march during a rally of support for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and against the US strikes on Yemen outside Sanaa on Monday (AP)
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.

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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

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 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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

 Marianne 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.
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Eating outArtisans & farmers World-beating Victorian artisan cheese business Holy Goat is set to close The trailblazing cheesemakers goats cheese set the benchmark for chevre in Australia and scooped countless awards. Sadly, their final batch will hit the market in May. Dani Valent January 22, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The founders of renowned Victorian goat cheese producer Holy Goat have announced their retirement, the closure of their on-farm cheese factory, and the consequent removal from the market of La Luna, their prizewinning signature cheese. Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs will stay on the farm with their goats and continue to restore habitat for native animals. The herd will be milked through to April with the last cheese to reach the market in May. Carla Meurs and Ann-Marie Monda from Holy Goat cheese. Monda says she has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of sadness and shock from prominent chefs, including Matt Moran and Stephanie Alexander, since Good Food broke the news. Im blindsided, she says. I had no idea there would be such a response. We have just done our job and lived our vocation.

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She notes that you never retire from a vocation. We will be stepping into a different light of the vocation, being more attentive to our goats than weve ever been, seeing them in a different way, she says. Well be working on the farm, rewilding the habitat, using the goats to manage weeds and to live their life with us. The former teachers moved to Sutton Grange Organic Farm, 20km east of the central Victorian town of Castlemaine, in 1999 and started making La Luna four years later. Soft and silky with an unmistakable wrinkly rind, the cheese has set the benchmark for chevre in Australia, scooping up countless awards in the process. Holy Goat cheese is not cheap  a 110g chevre retails for about $25  but the enterprise has never been about making money. I wouldnt say its a business that has made any profit even though some people think our cheese is expensive, says Monda. Thats the true cost of your food if you want ethical treatment of land, animals and people. La Luna is served in leading restaurants around the country, including Vue de Monde, Lake House, Rockpool Bar and Grill, and Sydneys Quay.

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Australia has gorgeous cheeses but when I compare them to France, we usually lose a few points, says Rockpool culinary director Corey Costelloe. Holy Goat produces world-beating cheese. I havent tasted better goats cheese when Im in France. Rockpool culinary directory Corey Costelloe. Janie Barrett Partners in business and life, Monda and Meurs are in their mid-60s. They milk a herd of 100 free-range goats, keeping the business deliberately small-scale and barely leaving the farm. Its a great way to live, Meurs told The Producers podcast in 2021. You milk goats in the morning, make the cheese that morning and through the day, and milk them again at night and it rolls on like that. They name their goats and treat them like family. The name Holy Goat suits how we want to be with goats and farming, Monda told The Producers. Were reverential and respectful to them. We exist here as cheese producers because we have these extraordinary animals that provide milk to us and the joy and fun of living with a herd of animals.

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Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs with their goat herd at Sutton Grange in 2009. John Woudstra Lake Houses Alla Wolf-Taskerwas one of Holy Goats first customers. She notes that the owners not only created world-class cheeses but mentored others and shared what they had learned. They were all about controlling the size of what they did so they could keep a handle on it, she says. They would bring groups from [restaurant] kitchens in spring to see the babies. There was an educational component as well. They have been the most significant thing to happen in our industry in the past 30 years, along with the relaxation of raw milk regulations, which was partly their doing as well. Anthony Femia, cheesemonger, Maker & Monger Sally Gosper runs Sydney-based specialty food distributor Two Providores. Theyve left a wonderful legacy, she says. Theyve educated people in hospitality and cheesemaking around Australia. Theres a celebration in that, even though its sad they will no longer make cheese.

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Sally Gosper, of artisan food purveyor Two Providores, with a Holy Goat La Luna Ring. Dominic Lorrimer Top cheesemonger Anthony Femia is awed by Holy Goats place in Australian cheese history. They have been the most significant thing to happen in our industry in the past 30 years, along with the relaxation of raw milk regulations, which was partly their doing as well, says the owner of Maker & Monger at Prahran Market. Carla and Ann-Marie are trailblazing in terms of the holy trinity of care for land, care for animals, and care for milk, which adds up to incredible cheese, says Femia. They took artisan cheesemaking to the next level, moving it away from mass-produced, industrialised, standardised products for supermarkets. Every cheesemaker has been inspired by them. Anthony Femia at Maker & Monger, in Melbournes Prahran Market. Arsineh Houspian

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Monda and Meurs profoundly affected Femias life. Early in his career, the aspiring Sydney cheesemonger won a scholarship that allowed him to spend time at Holy Goat in central Victoria. If it wasnt for them, I would have stayed safe, done whatever everyone else did, the same boring thing, he says. They inspired me to move to Melbourne, change everything. Meurs also literally saved his life. I got up at 6am and walked across to the milking shed half asleep, he says. There was a brown snake waiting at the door. Carla came over with a shovel, killed it without any hesitation and said, Welcome to the country, young fella. There is no one else like them anywhere. The experts guide to making the perfect cheese toastie  plus five of Melbournes best
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Review Eating outPotts Point Potts Points new drop-in, drop-out Snack Kitchen is like raiding the fridge at midnight No rules, no bookings, no requirements. Just fast, fun and familiar food at this new venture from father-and-son duo Maurice and Sylvester Terzini. Terry Durack January 22, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

As featured in the Sydney hit list February 2024 See all stories .

1 / 6 Go-to dish: fritto misto with sauce gribiche and lemon. Brook Mitchell 2 / 6 Snack Kitchen has come up nicely after being seemingly dipped in a can of white paint. Brook Mitchell 3 / 6 Ricotta with chilli and mint, one of Snack Kitchens companatico (ideal with bread) dishes. Brook Mitchell 4 / 6 Polpetti (wagyu beef and pork meatballs) with fennel salad. Brook Mitchell 5 / 6 Freshly sliced LPs mortadella with chilli oil. Brook Mitchell 6 / 6 A framed family photo on the counter at Snack Kitchen. Brook Mitchell Previous Slide Next Slide 14.5 / 20 How we score Mediterranean$$$ A snack is a small portion of food eaten between meals, designed to stave off hunger until you have the real thing. In reality, however, snacks beat the real thing hands-down. So father-and-son duo Maurice and Sylvester Terzini are onto something with their new Snack Kitchen. It couldnt be more different to Icebergs Dining Room & Bar or Bistro George in town. Thats where you go for meals at meal times. This is where you go when you dont want that straitjacket; when you want to eat something light but interesting at a time that suits you, not them.

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And guess what? Snack Kitchen is filled with snackers at 4pm. Again, at 6pm, at 9pm and at 10.30pm. Sylvester Terzini on the floor at Snack Kitchen. Brook Mitchell Its not just the food thats snacky; its the way you can use the place. So far, Ive dropped in late for a glass of wine and chunks of 24-month-old parmigiano reggiano drizzled with balsamic vinegar; been in for dinner straight from work, and turned up once again during a lull between waves of diners at 8pm. The corner space on Macleay Street  last home to Morgan McGlones Sunday  will be here for at least 12 months. Its come up nicely after being seemingly dipped in a can of white paint. Walls, counters, stools, tables and bentwood chairs: all white. White lines of light thread the ceiling. Floor staff, wrapped in white aprons, bring small plates and white napkins.

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The stemmed glasses are one-size-fits-all  for water (Santa Vittoria $7.50), wine, beer and cocktails. Look around and youll see chef Jarrard Martin (Bar Grazie, Uccello, Marys Underground) in the open kitchen, head down, focused and fast. At the bar by the window, Icebergs mixologist Ana Page (aka Miss Martini) is swizzling vermouth on ice or pouring wine. A long, handwritten sheet of brown paper hangs on one wall listing bottles from the producer of the month, Tyrrells. And thats pretty much it, apart from a trail of hand-painted blue roses against the white, for all the world like a woodwork tattoo. So lets snack. Most of the small dishes are what Italians call companatico, or ideal with bread, here, crusty baguette with spreadable butter ($7). Heirloom tomatoes ($18) draped with Olasagasti anchovies and sliced green olives. Freshly sliced LPs mortadella ($12) touched with the sting of chilli oil. Its like raiding the fridge at midnight.

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Freshly sliced mortadella with a drizzle of chilli oil. Just add bread. Brook Mitchell Beef carpaccio ($22) is layers of paper-thin grass-fed tenderloin, coated with the same rich lemony mayonnaise from Harrys Bar, Venice  the thinking being that you cant do better than the original. Briny capers and basil add nuance. Its not all parochially Italian  the Spanish get a look-in with a beautifully made tortilla ($14), a fat wedge of layered potato captured in rich omelette. Of the piatto di mezzo, referring to the traditional middle dishes, the ones between courses, polpetti are nicely dense, somewhat salty meatballs ($22) of wagyu beef and pork, teamed with a small fennel salad. Its also good to see those long, flat Roman beans ($18) get into the act, but the pairing, with chickpeas and warm ricotta, isnt special.

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Polpetti (wagyu beef and pork meatballs) with fennel salad. Brook Mitchell Fritto misto ($24) is a winner, a golden tumble of whitebait, calamari and small curls of sweet prawns, with a spoonful of sauce gribiche, chunky with hard-boiled egg. Wines by the glass arent listed, so a chat with sommelier/co-owner Sylvester is required to uncover a crisp, clean glass of Cascina del Prete Luet Roero Arneis, from Piedmont ($17/$95). It would be easier to just list them, sure, but then everyone would miss out on the human interaction. And thats what Snack Kitchen seems to run on. Dolci could be an affogato of vanilla bean ice-cream doused with Vittoria Coffee espresso and a slug of Brookies divine Mac (macadamia) liqueur ($18). No rules, no bookings, no requirements. Just fast, fun and familiar food, good times, and a sense of this is how things could be, and probably should be. The low-down Snack Kitchen Vibe: All-white, day and night drop-in centre Go-to dish: Fritto misto, gribiche, lemon, $24 Drinks: Peroni, aperitivi, cocktails, plus a lively rotating list of Italo-Australian wines
My conversation with him that day in the Bay ranged from the first time wed met, way back in 1982, to old crims and cops, our respective ailments and, briefly, the reason he was languishing behind bars.

Roger Rogerson leaving the ICAC in 1999 after getting into someone elses pre-booked cab. Credit: Jon Reid

Much of the crime was caught on CCTV. The two old detectives blamed each other for the killing.

By then, hed been inside for six years, convicted along with Glen McNamara, of the murder of 20-year-old drug dealer Jamie Gao.

For a bloke whod been in Prince of Wales Hospital with a serious illness, he appeared in remarkably good shape. There was nothing wrong with his mind or his memory.

The last time I saw Roger Rogerson was in Long Bay jail four years ago, just before COVID struck.

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Boxes of it, he said, under the house. Take it.

Many months later, asked to write a book about Rogerson and his relationship with criminal Neddy Smith, I contacted him again in prison and to see if he had any documents, source material.

He was nothing if not resilient.

He was appealing against his conviction, hoping that one day the High Court would set him free.

Yes Roger, I thought, maybe you should have.

And diligently preserved in the old cardboard boxes were the newspaper clippings. There were hundreds of them, all about him; a contemporaneous, albeit fading, record of his life  the good, the bad and the very ugly.

Under the sub-heading Leadership he wrote: I contend that I have no deficiency in this regard. I have been assessed by numerous senior officers as outstanding in regard to leadership.

He pointed out that in 1977 hed been awarded a Diploma in Criminology from Sydney University.

There were transcripts of some of his old cases  District Court, Supreme Court, High Court. There were old handwritten notes about his career and the criminals hed arrested and an immaculately typed six-page 1984 application for promotion to Sergeant First Class, detailing his many attributes and citations for good police work.

Nevertheless, the controversy lingered. Now it was being raised in state parliament and there were calls for a judicial inquiry.

A few of the old articles were written by me, including his first on-the-record interview about the shooting, which appeared in the Herald in early December 1982. By then, he and other police had been cleared of wrongdoing, a coronial inquest finding he had shot the 23-year-old whilst endeavouring to effect an arrest.

Unfortunately, it is a bit like that, Rogerson said, alluding to the old Hollywood movie, High Noon, starring Gary Cooper. For a brief moment, he was the bloke in the white hat, keeping Sydneys mean streets clean.

They started in June 1981, when he shot heroin dealer Warren Lanfranchi dead in a Chippendale laneway on a Saturday afternoon. Minutes after killing Lanfranchi, hed given an interview to a newspaper reporter, the story running on the front page the next day.

Minutes later, he was back on the blower, apologetic, explaining hed been under a bit of pressure. He was happy to talk or, as he used to say, have a chinwag.

Roger had read what Id written. Over the phone he told me to bugger off, thered be no interview.

Warren Lanfranchi, who was shot dead in 1981. Rogerson was charged with his killing.

Id written some earlier stories about the case after interviewing Keith Lanfranchi, Warrens father. Hed made it plain from the outset he believed his son was murdered in cold blood.

I called him at Darlinghurst police station, where he was now working, having been transferred from the Armed Hold-Up Squad.

I thought it might be a good time to see if Rogerson finally wanted to give his side of the story.

Sitting in an Oxford Street cafe an hour or so later, he said of the Lanfranchi shooting: I regret it, of course I do. I believe I acted in good faith, and that if I had not shot him, he would have shot me.

I asked him about the allegations that had been swirling around  that he was involved in heroin dealing, skimming the proceeds of armed robberies and that he owned three blocks of flats. The allegations are completely untrue, he said.

There was no evidence to the contrary. Not then. I remember a mixture of menace and charm.

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Over the decades, there were more interviews for newspapers and television. Media shy he was not, often using it to go on the front foot when allegations of corruption or wrongdoing arose.

It soon emerged he had been involved in two previous shootings, also controversial at the time.

The first was in 1976 when armed robber Phillip Western, wanted for the murder of a bank manager, was surrounded and shot dead by police at Avoca Beach, 70 kilometres north of Sydney.

Rogerson told me, and many others, hed fired the fatal shots. I believed him. I shouldnt have, because as Ive discovered researching the book, he didnt shoot at all.

He most certainly did a few other, very curious things, in the case of Phillip Western.

In 1978, Lawrence Butchy Byrne was caught attempting to rob the cash takings from South Sydney Junior Leagues Club. The money was being delivered on a Sunday morning to a bank in Anzac Parade, Kingsford.

The Armed Hold-Up Squad had been tipped off. Rogerson and other officers were lying in wait.

Roger Rogerson. Credit: Brendan Esposito

Wearing a bulletproof vest, carrying his service revolver and a Remington shotgun, Rogerson says he saw Byrne armed and about to shoot, so he fired first  four times. Other police opened fire with their .38 revolvers and shotguns. Byrne fired back but was mortally wounded.

It was about 11am on a Sunday.

In the case of Byrne, a coroner found it was either Rogerson or another officer carrying a shotgun who had killed Byrne in the line of duty. Either way, Rogerson was, over the years, happy to take the credit and the notoriety for Western, Byrne and Lanfranchi.

His reputation within the CIB was enhanced when he won the 1980 Peter Mitchell Award for the most outstanding performance by a member of the NSW Police.

It was for the arrest of two escapees from Goulburn jail who had robbed a Sydney hotel. As they made their getaway, they were chased by 21 year-old Patrick Harland. The robbers shot him dead.

Rogerson was instrumental in their capture, arresting one of them at gunpoint. Both men were convicted of murder. To the officers who worked around him, there was no questioning his courage.

His parents, his then wife and his two daughters watched him receive the award.

I felt very proud that day, he later wrote.

It marked the high point of his career.

He did as he pleased

After the killing of Lanfranchi, it never recovered. In truth, the rot had set in years earlier, most likely about 1976 when he was involved in the arrest of Bobby Chapman and Arthur Stanley Neddy Smith.

They were nabbed for trying to rob the $16,000 payroll on its way to the workers at Fielders Bakery.

According to Smith, it was then he started bribing Rogerson, and others, in return for a licence to commit crimes. Smith, by his own account, was in the late 1970s dealing large amounts of heroin.

Arthur Neddy Smith was jailed for life for murder. Credit: Robert Pearce

One of his dealers was Warren Lanfranchi, who, not long out of jail, also took to armed robbery. He was also wanted for the murder of a small-time drug dealer near Wollongong and the attempted murder of a motorcycle cop.

Rogerson used Smith to negotiate a meeting. It was Smith who drove Lanfranchi to Dangar Place in June 1981.

Smith gave evidence at the inquest, backing up the police version of events.

According to Smith, he was then granted the green light to commit any crime except murder. Like so many things involving Rogerson, the truth is an elusive commodity, and the story is a lot more complicated.

But his close personal involvement in the 1970s and 80s with Smith, and several other very heavy criminals including hitman Chris Flannery was always going to be problematic.

His dealings with them were never supervised; he did as he pleased.

As one detective who knew him said: He always thought he could stay one step ahead of Ned. It couldnt last.

Never far from the headlines

In June 1984, undercover detective Michael Drury was shot through the window of his home. Shockingly wounded and close to death, Drury implicated Rogerson in an attempt to bribe him over a drug deal.

While many in the NSW Police hierarchy didnt want to believe it  one or two very senior officers had been Rogersons mentors  others backed Drury, who had no reason to lie.

Rogerson was suspended from duty at the end of November 1984. He never returned.

He was subsequently charged with the attempted bribery of Drury and later, with conspiring to murder him.

Undercover detective Michael Drury was shot through the window of his home after implicating Roger Rogerson in an attempt to bribe him over a drug deal. Rogerson was later found not guilty. Credit: James Brickwood

In 1985, represented by Chester Porter, QC, he was found not guilty of the attempted bribery.

Many years later, Porter recalled his first impressions: I was impressed by his frankness and his ability. My clerk remarked upon his polite and friendly manner. Not only was he a very capable and brave police officer, he was a kind man. An elderly neighbour gave evidence that Rogerson painted his house for him, a not insignificant act of kindness and generosity.

He was found not guilty of the charge of conspiring to murder his fellow police officer.

It was a resounding victory, but many NSW Police believed Drury had been telling the truth. To this day they believe Rogerson did the unthinkable  he tried to murder a fellow cop.

Over the ensuing years, he was never far from the headlines.

He was a suspect in the murders of Chris Flannery and Lanfranchi associate and sex worker Lyn Woodward, both potential thorns in his side. Both disappeared without trace.

He was found to have $110,000 in bank accounts in false names. A bank teller who counted the cash remembered it being cold, like it had been in the fridge.

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Rogerson said it was all above board, insisting much of the money had come from the sale of a Bentley motor vehicle hed been restoring. It was bullshit.

Charged with perverting the course of justice over the $110,000, he was convicted, but it was overturned by the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal. It went to the High Court which ruled against Rogerson.

He was filthy.

He did three years in Berrima prison where, as he told me in a 1993 letter, he had lots of friends.

There are about 16 ex-coppers here, including former deputy commissioner Bill Allen, who is almost 71 years of age and a nice old bloke, so I have plenty of mates to talk to.

He was investigated in the early 1990s by the Independent Commission Against Corruption, where Smith had rolled over and given evidence about widespread bribery involving Rogerson and others.

None of the allegations stuck, mainly because Smith had lied so many times before. Uncorroborated, his word was next to worthless.

He wasnt a psychopath

The Police Integrity Commission investigated him over his alleged bribery of a Liverpool Council employee.

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Rogerson denied knowing anything about it, only to be caught out on a listening device discussing how the bloke was known as Mr 10 per cent. He was bang to rights for perjury, although it took until 2005 for the case to reach the court. He pleaded guilty.

Jailing him for 2 years, with a non-parole period of 12 months, Judge Peter Berman, SC, said: There is much in Mr Rogersons life about which he is entitled to be proud. There are many aspects of the offenders character which are admirable and he was able to call a great deal of evidence which demonstrated the offenders kindness towards others. He helped friends, family and strangers.

He acted bravely at times when serving as a police officer.

It doesnt fit with the popular view of Rogerson: a psychopath, a serial killer with a badge, an evil monster, a man who was utterly corrupt and always was.

No, he wasnt a psychopath, said Dr Michael Kennedy, a former NSW detective who worked with him.

Now an associate professor at the University of New England, he described Rogerson as an extremely complicated man, but in some ways extremely honourable. He kept his word. Thats why crims liked him.

I didnt like him. But he was a product of his environment. He was encouraged to do many of the things he did by the hierarchy.

When he was arrested in 2014 for the murder of Jamie Gao, just about everyone who knew him well was astonished, partly by the fact that a man well into his 70s was running around with drugs, and partly because of the ham-fisted nature of the crime, most of it caught on CCTV.

Killed: Sydney student Jamie Gao. Credit: Facebook

I rang one of his former colleagues who had spoken to him recently.

Has he got dementia, has he lost it, I asked.

Sharp as a tack, came the crisp reply.

Those who knew him, or thought they did, most often describe him as complex, charming, corrupt, charismatic, manipulative, a chameleon, an enigma.

Many, including a few old crims, will have pithier descriptions. Warren Lanfranchis brother, Darrell, said on Sunday, I hope he lingers on for as long as possible, in as much pain as possible.

When he dies they will have to send several demons to pick him up. Theyve been waiting for a long time.

Talented, once revered and now reviled, he had an extraordinary life.

In the annals of Australian policing and crime, he will be remembered as the man who epitomised corruption and all that was wrong in NSW Police.

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Labor lord mayoral candidate Tracey Price has promised half-price fares on Zone 1 and Zone 2 trips if the party takes control of Brisbane City Council.

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Price said the policy would save commuters around $1000 a year, and complement the partys promised extension of free late-night bus services.

A Labor council would also focus on upgrading suburban intersections and establish a congestion taskforce to find ways to improve the road network.

With rising cost of living challenges, residents also want to be able to save money, as well as time, Price said.

Public transport in Brisbane needs to be about more than one inner-city project  Brisbane Metro. There needs to be more work done, in the suburbs especially.

The council election is in March.
Ishikawa, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - Three weeks since the Noto Peninsula earthquake, the JR Nanao Line between Hakui and Nanao stations has resumed operation, signaling a much-needed move towards normalcy for local residents. Regular trains are now running on schedule from the first service of the day.

The resumption has been met with voices of joy from passengers.

One student expressed, "Starting today, we can all go to school. I'm so happy that we're finally able to go to school together." Another student shared the excitement, saying, "I'm looking forward to seeing my friends after such a long time."

West Japan Railway Company (JR West) is aiming to resume services by mid-February on the severely damaged section between Nanao Station and Wakura Onsen Station.

The earthquake has to date claimed 232 lives in Ishikawa Prefecture, with 22 people still unaccounted for. The number of evacuees has surpassed 15,000. However, only about 16%, or 2,607 people, are staying in secondary evacuation centers set up in hotels and inns.

Ishikawa Prefecture is bracing for heavy snowfall late Tuesday into Wednesday, with a warning-level snowstorm expected. In the flatlands of the Noto Peninsula, snow accumulation of 20 to 40 centimeters is forecasted. The Meteorological Agency is urging caution against structural collapses due to the weight of the snow.

Source: BIZ
A former investment fund manager guilty of running a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme has been found dead after he failed to attend his own sentencing in court.

An arrest warrant was issued for Kenneth Charles Grace on Thursday after he failed to show up in Sydneys Downing Centre District Court and his lawyers were unable to contact him.

Ken Grace arriving at the Federal Court in Brisbane in February 2020. Credit: Attila Csaszar

He was due to be sentenced after pleading guilty to six charges of dishonest conduct in relation to his Goldsky investment fund.

Police confirmed Grace, 58, was found dead in a Sydney city centre motel just after 1pm on Thursday, the day of his scheduled court appearance.
A judge who imprisoned a man for selling shortened firearms says the case should serve as a warning to others that such offending will result in harsh jail sentences.

Matt John Marks, 34, faced Brisbane Supreme Court for sentencing on Monday after pleading guilty to drug dealing and illegal gun sales.

Marks admitted to one count each of trafficking and possessing dangerous drugs and three counts of unlawful supply of weapons in the high-powered rifle, rapid-fire shotgun or handgun categories.

Justice Peter Callaghan told Marks Queensland laws required him to spend at least 2 years in custody for charges involving the supply of shortened firearms.

Shortened firearms are defined in Queensland as a rifle or shotgun that has been reduced in length to less than 75 centimetres.
Perspective

It was so sweet. I couldnt get enough. Whenever we were together, everything was immediately better. I never wanted it to end.
As the sun sets over Ali Qapu Palace in Esfahans main square, pigeons flutter above blue domes, fountains splash and carriages clip-clip through the liquid amber of evening. Youre surrounded by an outsized architectural ensemble that ought to be intimidating yet feels surprisingly intimate. This is Esfahans playground, where kids race bicycles, Iranian families picnic beneath topiary hedges, and retirees gather around the soft coolness of fountains.

A young girl eyes dessert in Esfahan, Iran. Credit: Alamy

Under the arcades, ice cream shops do brisk business. Step inside and the Islamic worlds finest architecture gives way to delightful kitsch. Red and green neon signs cast a happy glow over customers. Slushy orange and pink ices churn in machines. Trays of ice cream are lurid in lilac, pale green and puce.

Order bastani, the Iranian ice cream made with saffron and rosewater, embedded with chunks of frozen clotted cream, topped with pistachio nuts and served between two crisp wafers. You havent lived until youve had bastani with the locals on a hot summers night in Esfahan, beneath minarets like great exclamation marks against a pink-tinged sky.

Ice cream is the great leveller. Everybody loves it. Everyone smiles when theyre eating it. An Iranian ice-cream shop is one of the friendliest places on Earth. And in Iran, as many places, ice cream eating is a social ritual; a sundowner for young and old alike. Some of my loveliest travel moments have been in places like this, eating ice cream (or some local variant of it) as the sun dips and locals stroll.
The guided visit to the compound came as Israel, after more than 100 days of fighting in Gaza, appeared increasingly torn between the duelling war goals of dismantling Hamas military and its governing abilities  and of freeing the remaining 130 or so captives, which will most likely require a diplomatic deal involving a ceasefire. At least 25 of the captives have already been declared dead, and many Israelis fear that time is running out for the rest. The military offensive has slowed, complicated by the sheer scope and sophistication of Hamas vast tunnel network that crisscrosses the Palestinian enclave, extending for hundreds of miles, according to Israeli intelligence. A view of a small cell from the entrance, where a barred door stands open. Credit: The New York Times Beneath Khan Younis alone, the military estimates that Hamas dug at least 160 kilometres of tunnels across several levels, creating an inverted, multi-story complex. We are fighting in Khan Younis above ground and below ground, said Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the chief spokesperson for the Israeli military, who led the tour of the subterranean compound. He added, This kind of warfare is unlike any other modern battlefield anywhere in the world.

The spiralling death toll in Gaza has increased international pressure on Israel to end the war. Above ground, much of Gaza is in ruins. Israel does not seek destruction, Hagari said. This war is a tragedy. But there is no way to destroy tunnels built beneath civilian areas without damaging the structures above, he said, adding, Hamas knows that. The Times and other journalists accepted a military escort to visit the underground compound and secure rare access to wartime Gaza, which is mainly off-limits to the outside news media. After a half-hour journey in an armoured vehicle, the journalists were taken to a ground-level entrance with an open metal door in the side of a three-story apartment building that led down a staircase to a maze of tunnels that branched out in different directions. The neighbourhood, in eastern Khan Younis, had been evacuated.

The tunnel entrance, located under the residence of a Hamas operative, was booby-trapped with explosives, according to the Israeli military. As soldiers of the 98th Paratroopers Division advanced along the underground route, they encountered blast doors and engaged in close combat with several fighters, who were killed, the military said. By the time the soldiers reached the carpeted chamber and cells, the hostages had been moved to another location, the military said, without saying when it believed hostages had last been present there. The compound was almost a kilometre into the warren of tunnels, which was lined with electricity and communications cables, and about 20 metres  or about six floors  underground. To reach it required walking single file through pitch darkness and walking down long flights of stairs carved into the earth. The air was thick and humid. The house in Khan Younis under which the tunnel entrance was found. Credit: The New York Times In the abandoned chamber, which was equipped with basic light fittings, the Israeli military said soldiers had found two drawings by a child. The military showed photographs of the drawings  both of a house against a backdrop of hills with a sun and clouds in the sky  that it said were drawn by Emilia Aloni, 5, an Israeli girl who was abducted with her mother, Danielle Aloni, 44, on October 7 from Kibbutz Nir Oz. After nearly seven weeks in captivity, the Alonis were released in a first group of 13 hostages, all women and children, under the temporary truce deal in November. In interviews with Israeli television channels after the hostages release, Danielle Aloni displayed pictures she said were drawn by her daughter in captivity that closely resembled those the Israeli military said had been found in the compound under Khan Younis.

In the television interviews, Aloni said she and her daughter were taken into a tunnel soon after arriving in Gaza and then walked for hours in what she described as an underground city. Eventually, she said, they came to a kind of cave where there were about a dozen other captives, including wounded older people and a teenager. Loading In a document released Sunday by Hamas in which it provided its own narrative of recent events, the group said that it dealt in a positive and kind manner with all the civilians who have been held in Gaza. Many of the released hostages say they received little food and water, inadequate medical treatment, if any, and were kept in tough conditions. The Israeli military said some of the hostages were kept in the central chamber and others in the narrow cells with the barred doors. The cells had clinical white-tiled walls broken by a vertical purple stripe with a toilet and sink in the back of each one; some also had a small shower nozzle. Soldiers escorting the journalists said that strands of hair had been found in the cells, as well as a bra. The military said DNA testing matched the hair with hostages, but did not say who.

Ayala Metzger, the daughter-in-law of Yoram Metzger, 80, who is still being held in Gaza, told Israels Channel 12 News on Sunday that his DNA was found on clothes left behind in the compound. A boiler provided hot water when there was electricity. A kitchenette littered with remnants of food and dirty dishes was found in underground tunnels. Credit: The New York Times Any hostages kept in the compound would have had little sense of time below ground, or of the destruction taking place on the surface. Emerging back into sunlight two hours after entering the tunnel, the subterranean silence was replaced for the reporters accompanying the Israeli military by the sounds of war. A drone whined in the sky. Sharp cracks and booms stirred up plumes of dark smoke.

The neighbourhood is a wasteland, surrounded by mounds of earth and rubble and churned up roads. Loading Inside the house that Israel says belonged to the Hamas operative, a marble staircase hinted at a level of opulence. Copper and gold curtains still hung at blown-out windows in a lower-floor bedroom, and most of an outside wall was gone. Not one building in the vicinity looked habitable. By Saturday, the tunnels and the compound below the neighbourhood had been blown up. This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
The US Navy is determined to have 355 operational warships by 2033 to successfully defend itself against the navies of China and Russia. (Photo: 12019/Pixabay)

In a somber turn of events, the US Central Command has announced the tragic loss of two US Navy SEALs who had been missing off the coast of Somalia since January 11. After an extensive 10-day search covering over 21,000 square miles, their status has been officially changed to deceased.

The sailors, part of a critical operation targeting illicit Iranian weapons, encountered a life-threatening situation while boarding a vessel in the volatile waters. According to reports from CNN, the first SEAL fell into the water amid eight-foot swells, prompting the second to follow in a rescue attempt, adhering to protocol.

US Central Command expressed deep regret over the outcome of the search. "We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example," stated Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, US CENTCOM commander.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also conveyed his condolences, stating, "We mourn the loss of our two brave Navy SEALs, and our hearts are with their families. The entire Department is united in sorrow today. We are grateful to all who worked tirelessly to try to find and rescue them."

The incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by US forces in Somalia. The US maintains a small military presence in the country, primarily focused on combating the threat posed by al-Shabaab, an extremist Islamist group recognized as a terrorist organization by the US. Al-Shabaab has conducted numerous attacks against the Somali government and has been deemed a significant threat to US security interests by US Africa Command.

The SEALs' mission was part of broader efforts to train Somali forces and coordinate strikes against al-Shabaab. Somalia's strategic location, bordering the Gulf of Aden, the Guardafui Channel, and the Indian Ocean, makes it a critical area for maritime security operations.

The tragic loss of these SEALs highlights the dangers faced by US Special Operations forces in executing their duties, often under perilous conditions. The joint efforts in the search operation included assistance from Japan and Spain, as well as support from various US institutions such as the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, the US Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego, and the Office of Naval Research's Oceanographic Support wing.

As the mission transitions from search and rescue to recovery, the US military community, along with the nation, mourns the loss of these courageous SEALs. Their sacrifice, a stark reminder of the perils faced in safeguarding national and international security, will not be forgotten. The US Central Command, out of respect for their families, has withheld further details at this time.
TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - At Tokyo DisneySea, a frenetic scramble for limited-edition merchandise, predominantly by groups believed to be Chinese, has sparked controversy, with their bulk purchasing behavior highlighted on social media. This frenzy has led to concerns about potential domestic and international reselling of these goods.

Despite warnings from staff that each individual could purchase only three of each item, scenes of intense competition and disregard for these limits were reported. Duffy, a beloved Disney character, is at the center of this phenomenon.

Students in their 20s expressed their affection for Duffy, describing the plush toy as comforting and relaxing. A pair of friends, seen with a large Duffy plush in their decorated car, echoed similar sentiments. A 60-year-old employee, who has been bringing a Duffy toy to the park for nearly a decade, likened it to a family member, with another self-employed individual in their 60s agreeing.

When these limited-edition Duffy-related goods are released at DisneySea, the park witnesses distressing scenes. Despite repeated pleas from staff for safety and order, crowds surged towards the merchandise, grabbing items indiscriminately.

One staff member was heard urgently requesting the crowd not to push, as people were getting crushed. Similar chaos ensued at other stores within the park, with witnesses describing scenes of customers aggressively reaching for items during restocking.

Videos on social media depicted individuals squatting in front of shelves, rapidly filling their baskets with Duffy merchandise, leading to overflowing carts. Despite the rule of a three-item limit per type of merchandise, with over 30 types available, shoppers swiftly filled their baskets with various items.

In another incident, a witness captured footage of individuals hurriedly sorting through large quantities of Duffy goods, throwing items into separate carts. By evening, shelves that had been fully stocked in the morning were left empty.

This is not the first instance of such pandemonium. In November 2022, similar scenes of bulk buying were recorded at DisneySea. A witness recounted the chaotic environment, where souvenirs were thrown into carts without regard.

People were seen dashing towards the entrance gates as early as 3:30 AM on a new merchandise release day, forming long queues to secure tickets for store entry.

Videos spreading on social media raise questions about who is behind these bulk purchases. Chinese was heard in one video, and the recorder indicated that several groups thought to be Chinese were involved in the mass buying, with transactions reaching up to 500,000 yen in a single purchase. The motive behind these bulk purchases remains unclear.

On Japanese resale sites and apps, the recently sold limited-edition merchandise was seen listed at higher prices than in-store. Similar activities were observed on Chinese social media, with videos showing boxes filled with limited goods.

A woman, believed to have purchased over 100 items, announced her intention to continue shopping the next day. A man receiving the goods in Shanghai showed off his haul, including a strawberry bag and plush toys, with more shipments on the way.

In response, Oriental Land Company, which operates Tokyo DisneySea, has imposed restrictions on the number of entries to merchandise stores, transactions, and quantities that can be purchased.

Oriental Land Company stated they are continuously working on improving measures to ensure a comfortable shopping experience and are considering more effective strategies.

Furthermore, Mercari, where resold limited-edition goods are suspected to appear, has cautioned on its website that listings in violation of guidelines will be removed.

Source:  
State-owned power producer SJVN on Monday said it has signed an agreement with NHAI to provide technical consultancy services for highway projects.

The agreement was signed in the presence of NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav and SJVN Director (Projects) Sushil Sharma in the national capital, SJVN said in a statement.

"SJVN CMD Nand Lal Sharma has informed that SJVN has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The primary focus of this MoU is to utilise the expertise of SJVN in Technical Consultancy Services," it said.

SJVN will review slope protection works at various locations, particularly on the hillside from the Parwanoo-Solan-Shimla section of NH-05, Kullu Manali Highway, and various NHAI projects located in Himachal Pradesh, the company said.

Furthermore, SJVN will provide design review services, peer review services, and technical vetting of designs of NHAI and will also monitor the construction works and recommend quality-control tests and construction methodologies as and when required.

This consultancy service will be initially provided for a period of 24 months by SJVN to NHAI.

"This significant collaboration will lead to expertise and knowledge sharing, resource optimisation and promoting synergy between the power and highway sectors, ultimately advancing infrastructure development," the SJVN CMD said.
The agency may include the contents of this FIR in its ongoing money laundering case against Dilbag Singh and others

The Enforcement Directorate has filed an FIR with the police against former Haryana MLA Dilbag Singh and a dozen others allegedly associated with him on charges of illegal mining and "diverting" the flow of the River Yamuna.

The federal agency had raided the former Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) legislator from Yamunanagar assembly seat, Congress MLA from Sonipat Surender Panwar and their linked entities earlier this month in an alleged illegal mining linked money laundering case.

It had arrested Dilbag Singh and his associate Kulwinder Singh after raiding about 20 premises of the two politicians and their linked persons in Yamunanagar, Sonipat, Mohali, Faridabad, Chandigarh, and Karnal.

These searches were based on a case, registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), that took cognisance of multiple FIRs of the Haryana Police regarding illegal mining of boulders, gravel and sand that took place in the past in Yamunanagar and nearby districts even after the lease expiry period and the National Green Tribunal's order.

The ED's Gurugram zone joint director Navaneet Agrawal had filed a police FIR at the Pratap Nagar police station in Yamunanagar on January 19 alleging that the searches conducted by the agency on January 4 found that Singh, his associates and some companies "violated environmental norms such as in-stream mining using heavy machinery during off hours, diversion of the flow of the River Yamuna by laying layer of sand in the lease area to extract more quantity of sand."



The complaint added that the proceeds earned out of the "illegal unscientific mining" has been routed through various dummy entities in fictitious names, depositing huge cash in those entities and layering of such money into their personal bank accounts, related companies and entities.

The agency named firms like Delhi Royalty Company, Mubarikpur Royalty Company, Development Strategies (India) Pvt. Ltd, JSM foods Pvt. Ltd and PS Buildtech in the FIR while it named Dilbag Singh, Rajinder Singh and 11 other persons as accused.

It has invoked sections of the Mines and Minerals (Regulation of Development) Act, Environment Protection Act, and section 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC, in the FIR.

The agency may include the contents of this FIR in its ongoing money laundering case against Dilbag Singh and others.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday said that India today is proud of its traditions, its culture and its history as he underlined that there are very few civilisations who have survived as a modern nation and we are one of them.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Nigeria after attending the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda, made the remarks while addressing the Indian community members here.

We are today sending a message to the world, that this is also an India, which is proud of its traditions, of its culture, of its history, said Jaishankar, who is here on his first visit as External Affairs Minister.

The minister said that in the world there are very few civilizations, who have survived as a modern nation and we are one of them."



He highlighted developmental activities in India, saying there is a sense today that India is being built and there is a flow of investment.

On ties with Nigeria, Jaishankar said that the two sides have business of about $ 12-15 billion and invited Nigerian investors to invest in India.

There are many more possibilities because actually, Indian capabilities in many areas are growing very, very strongly. I would say, we've had a long record in pharmaceuticals but today India, for example, has become a big producer of medical devices, which was not the case earlier, he said.

Jaishankar will co-chair the sixth India-Nigeria Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) with his counterpart and meet with other leaders.

He will also inaugurate the third edition of the Nigeria-India Business Council meeting, deliver a speech at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, interact with business delegates and inaugurate a bust of Mahatma Gandhi.

He will also chair the regional conference of Indian heads of missions.

"India and Nigeria have traditionally enjoyed close and friendly relations. This is the external affairs minister's first visit to Nigeria which will further consolidate bilateral relations between the two countries," the MEA said.
The price of ten grams of 24-carat gold in Mumbai is in line with prices in Kolkata and Hyderabad, at Rs 63,050 | Photo: Unsplash

The price of 24-carat gold remained unchanged in early trade on Monday, with ten grams of the precious metal selling at Rs 63,050, according to the GoodReturns website. The price of silver was also unchanged, with one kilogram of the precious metal selling at Rs 75,500.

The price of 22-carat gold remained stable, with the yellow metal selling at Rs 57,800.

The price of ten grams of 24-carat gold in Mumbai is in line with prices in Kolkata and Hyderabad, at Rs 63,050.

In Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, the price of ten grams of 24-carat gold stood at Rs 63,200, Rs 63,050, and Rs 63,550, respectively.

In Mumbai, the price of ten grams of 22-carat gold is at par with that in Kolkata and Hyderabad, at Rs 57,800.

In Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai, ten grams of 22-carat gold are selling at Rs 57,940, Rs 57,800, and Rs 58,250, respectively.

US gold prices steadied on Monday as traders braced for fresh data on US economic growth and the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge due later this week, ahead of the central bank's interest rate verdict next week.

Spot gold edged 0.1 per cent higher to $2,030.87 per ounce by 0116 GMT.

Spot silver rose 0.1 per cent to $22.63 per ounce, platinum climbed 0.4 per cent to $902.21, and palladium gained 0.4 per cent to $950.47.

In Delhi and Mumbai, one kilogram of silver is currently trading at Rs 75,500.

In Chennai, one kilogram of silver is trading at Rs 77,000.

(with inputs from Reuters)
A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has concluded its participation in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2024, culminating in an announcement that Riyadh will host a WEF Special Meeting on global cooperation, growth and energy, between 28-29 April 2024.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240121549983/en/

The Kingdom Concludes Its Participation in WEF AM 2024 with Announcement to Host WEF Special Meeting in Riyadh (Photo: AETOSWire)

From 15-19 January, the Saudi delegation, Chaired by HH Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in critical dialogues, bilateral and multilateral meetings to shape solutions to global challenges and build the foundations for a more connected, resilient and thriving future.

The delegation included HRH Princess Reema bint Bandar AlSaud, Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the United States of America; HE Dr. Majid Alkassabi, Minister of Commerce; HE Adel Aljubeir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Member of the Council of Ministers, and Envoy for Climate; HE Khalid Al Falih, Minister of Investment; HE Mohammed Aljadaan, Minister of Finance; HE Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology; HE Bandar Alkhorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources; and HE Faisal Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning.

Some of the highlight sessions in which the delegates participated included: Securing an Insecure World; Frictionless Services; Gulf Economies: All In; Regulating Non-Banks; Bold Steps for a Sustainable MENA; Resilience: What It Means and What to Do About It; Supply Chains of the Future; Investors of First Resort: Government Inc.; The Future of Banking and Technology in Saudi Arabia: What it Means for Investors; MENAs Economic Dilemma: Reforms Amid Uncertainty; and a special WEF panel session on Saudi Arabia: The Course Ahead, which focused on the Kingdoms leading role in promoting peace, security and prosperity in the Middle East.

The Kingdoms delegation also launched the Saudi House: Bold Visions Series, which convened change-makers, policymakers, and innovators to engage in dialogues focused on the solutions needed across key areas of economic development including the blue economy, tourism and technology investments.

The WEF Special Meeting in Riyadh is part of a landmark agreement between Saudi Arabia and the Forum, set to convene more than 700 global leaders the public and private sector, international organizations, NGOs, academia and civil society to foster dialogues between countries towards reviving international cooperation.

On Thursday 18th of January, the Kingdom signed two agreements with WEFs innovation platform UpLink to catalyze innovative global solutions to todays most pressing environmental and sustainability challenges. The two agreements aim to foster innovation ecosystems around early-stage impact entrepreneurs to stimulate investments and support for breakthrough solutions that address critical sustainable development challenges including ocean degradation, biodiversity loss, and the circular carbon economy.

Another Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed to enhance cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The agreement focuses on a wide range of public policy initiatives in areas including the economy, corporate governance and sustainability.

*Source: AETOSWire

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240121549983/en/
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TOKYO, Jan 23 (News On Japan) - Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in his bid to restore political trust, declared the dissolution of the Kishida faction. While the Abe and Nikai factions have also firmed up plans for dissolution, the Aso, Motegi, and Moriyama factions have expressed intentions to continue, revealing a split in direction within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Meanwhile, even within the factions set to dissolve, new movements suggest that not only will factions not vanish, but new ones may also emerge.

According to a joint public opinion survey by NNN and Yomiuri Shimbun, the Cabinet's approval rating has dropped to 24 percent, tying with the lowest since its inception. The question now is whether a path to political reform can be charted. What are the intentions and new movements within each faction? A thorough analysis is provided...

Source: YOMIURI
Sunday, January 21, 2024 at 7:56PM

Photo: Samsung

Galaxy AI has arrived, as Samsung has announced with much fanfare, but the company omitted a small detail from its presentation earlier this week: it might not be free forever. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, S24 Plus, and S24 all boast new AI featuresfrom translating phone conversations to removing objects from photos. They'll also be available on many older phones. However, Android Central noticed the fine print on Samsung's site, suggesting they might charge for them in the future. And that might be hard to justify.

The footnote at the bottom of the Galaxy S24 Ultra product page is ambiguous but implies that Samsung could start charging later. It reads: "Galaxy AI features will be provided for free until the end of 2025 on supported Samsung Galaxy devices. Different terms may apply for AI features provided by third parties."

For now, the situation is stable, but many of the S24's Galaxy AI features rely on Google Cloud, so either companyor both!could eventually put them behind a paywall. This move wouldn't be surprising given the cost of offering these features and running the large AI models that enable them.

Business Insider reports that manufacturers might adopt subscription models to cover these ongoing expenses since they can't offset them with advertising as Google does with search. It could also change how we think about buying devices. They don't come with extra charges outside of adding protection or cloud storage.

But why would they wait until 2025? The Korea Herald quoted some remarks from Samsung's head of mobile devices, TM Roh, who said that charging for AI services could be an option when they become more sophisticatedand more expensive to run.

AI, as it has appeared on phones so far, isn't remarkable enough to warrant the additional cost. These features can take time to process, but, more importantly, they haven't been that useful. If Samsung wants to charge for AI options in the future, the opportunity is theretheyll have to show that theyre worth the price.

Via
Recently-retired Disney legend Mark Henn appeared on The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast last week and shed some light on his decision to leave the only studio hes ever worked for after 43 years with the company.

The 90-minute interview covers a lot of territory and while Henn answers diplomatically, the chat is surprisingly somber in tone. Twin brothers Tom and Tony Bancroft worked at the Disney Animation Florida studio in the Nineties, when Henn was one of the studios artistic leaders, and they press Henn to discuss how he was treated by the Disney Company over the years. They also repeatedly come back to the subject of how Disney features have abandoned hand-drawn animation in favor of cg.

Here are five takeaways from Henns appearance on the podcast.

Henns Work At Disney No Longer Felt Meaningful

About 20 minutes into the podcast, Henn explains that one of the key reasons he decided to pack away his pencils was that the studio was asking him to do work that didnt feel meaningful. Asked if he would have liked to stay until his 45th or even 50th anniversary with the company, Henn replied in the affirmative, saying:

If the work had been more meaningful, I think I would have stayed It wasnt what I signed up for. Some of it was interesting. Some of the stuff we were doing for the parks was kind of fun, but the other projects  I know the people that are running that [legacy] department are doing everything they can to keep 2d alive as long as they possibly can it just wasnt as fulfilling.

Blacklisted?

Henn says that for over 20 years, since he directed the 2000 animated short John Henry, hes felt like Ive had a sign on my back that said, Dont let this guy direct.' Making matters worse, Henn says two ideas he pitched to the studio were later made by other filmmakers at other Disney-affiliated studios:

I had pitched an idea about a true story based on a carrier pigeon in World War II there was some interest, and then they finally passed on it. Several months later, the studio announced theyre doing Valiant, and I had a development person come racing down to my office to try to explain why these things happen. And then, in the early 2000s, I pitched the idea of having airplanes, and they got some interest, and then it was passed on saying it was too close to Cars.

Valiant ended up being produced by Vanguard Animation, which had a distribution deal with Disney, and Planes was later produced by Disneytoon Studios.

At Disney, Its a CG World

Asked about how Disney has changed in the four-plus decades he was at the company, Henn didnt hesitate in answering:

Well, its a cg world, and thats a fact. That changed years ago. Home on the Range was supposed to be the last [2d film]. Thankfully, we got to do Princess and the Frog and Winnie the Pooh after we had another management change.

He went on to explain the reasons why 2d animation has fallen out of favor at the studio and explained why its highly unlikely that modern-day Disney would ever consider a return to hand-drawn animation:

Since then, I think its just too difficult for the studio to justify essentially creating a second studio within this current studio in order to do 2d, which is what you had when we had Princess and the Frog and Winnie the Pooh. We essentially had literally two smaller studios under one roof, and I just think that that became too much of a financial risk. Right now, were barely able to house everybody that we have on staff. So, I mean, theres all kinds of logistical things from where youre going to put people to taking that risk.

End of an Era

During the interview, the Bancrofts and Henn talk extensively about friends and colleagues that they share. Two names that come up repeatedly are Disneys only other top hand-drawn holdovers: Eric Goldberg and Randy Haycock.

According to Henn, Goldberg and Haycock are mostly working remote these days. In fact, he says that Goldberg recently moved, and the Bancrofts imply that he may be joining Henn in retirement soon. When Goldberg and Haycock do call it quits, there will be no key 2d animators from the Nineties Disney renaissance period left working full-time at the studio. Besides the latter two, the only full-time 2d animation artists currently employed in the companys creative legacy department are supervising key assistant animator Rachel Bibb and a couple trainees.

Not Finished Just Yet

Although Henns time as a full-time Disney employee ended earlier than he may have hoped, he explained that he would be back at the studio this spring to wrap up one loose end:

The plan is I will be going back, as I left a project that I had started unfinished. I had started a little short film. I had a conversation with [Walt Disney Animation Studios president] Clark [Spencer], and he assured me to not put the pressure on myself to try to get it done by the end of the year.

So, while Henns time as a full-time Disney animator is done, there is still a bit more to come from the artist who supervised the animation of iconic Disney characters such as Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, and Tiana.
TOKYO, Jan 23 (News On Japan) - At the tripartite conference held on Monday, involving government, labor unions, and business leaders, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida called for wage increases exceeding last year's levels.

Prime Minister Kishida stated, "For this year's spring labor-management negotiations, considering the trends in prices, I request wage increases that surpass the levels of last year."

Emphasizing the pivotal moment for Japan's economy to either regress to deflation or completely break free from it, Kishida appealed for wage hikes that exceed the levels achieved last year by major corporations, the highest in 30 years.

Kishida requested the thorough implementation of guidelines on the pass-through of labor costs to prices, compiled last year, to 1,873 industry associations.

Following the meeting, Tokura, the representative of the business community and Chairman of Keidanren (Japan Business Federation), expressed the intention to continue wage increases exceeding the 2% target set by the government and the Bank of Japan.

The focus in the upcoming full-fledged "Shunto" (spring wage negotiations) will be on securing funds for wage increases, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises where 70% of workers are employed.

Source: NEWS
Can flu be treated?

Yes. There are prescription medications called antiviral drugs that can be used to treat flu illness. CDC recommends prompt treatment for people who have flu or suspected flu and who are at higher risk of serious flu complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease.

What are flu antiviral drugs?

Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid, an inhaled powder, or an intravenous solution) that fight against flu viruses in your body. Antiviral drugs are not sold over the counter. You can only get them if you have a prescription from a health care provider. Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics, which fight against bacterial infections. Antiviral drugs for flu only work to treat flu. Flu antiviral drugs are different than antiviral drugs used to treat other infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Antiviral drugs prescribed to treat COVID-19 are not approved or authorized to treat flu.

What should I do if I think I am sick with flu?

If you get sick with flu, antiviral drugs are a treatment option. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious flu complications (full list of higher risk factors) and you develop flu symptoms. Flu signs and symptoms can include feeling feverish or having a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. However, not everyone with the flu has a fever. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat your flu illness.

Should I still get a flu vaccine?

Yes. Antiviral drugs are not a substitute for getting a flu vaccine. While flu vaccine can vary in how well it works, a flu vaccine is best way to help prevent seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications. Everyone 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine every year. Antiviral drugs are a second line of defense that can be used to treat flu (including seasonal flu and novel influenza viruses) if you get sick.

What are the benefits of antiviral drugs?

Treatment of flu with influenza antiviral medications works best when started within 1-2 days after flu symptoms begin, and can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by about a day. Starting antiviral treatment shortly after symptoms begin also can help reduce some flu complications. For adults hospitalized with flu, some studies have reported that early antiviral treatment can reduce their risk of death.

When should antiviral drugs be taken for treatment?

Antiviral treatment provides the greatest benefit when started soon after flu illness begins. Studies show that flu antiviral drugs work best for treatment when they are started within two days of getting sick. However, starting them later can still be beneficial, especially if the sick person is at higher risk of serious flu complications or is in the hospital with more severe illness. Follow instructions for taking these drugs. Follow your doctors instructions and the dose, frequency, and duration listed on the label instructions for taking these drugs.

What antiviral drugs are recommended this flu season?

There are four FDA-approved antiviral drugs recommended by CDC to treat flu this season.

oseltamivir phosphate (available as a generic version or under the trade name Tamiflu),

zanamivir (trade name Relenza),

peramivir (trade name Rapivab), and

baloxavir marboxil (trade name Xofluza).

Generic oseltamivir and Tamiflu are available as a pill or liquid suspension and are FDA approved for early treatment of flu in people 14 days and older.

Zanamivir is a powdered medication that is inhaled and approved for early treatment of flu in people 7 years and older. (Note: Zanamivir (trade name Relenza) is administered using an inhaler device and is not recommended for people with breathing problems like asthma or COPD.) Oseltamivir and zanamivir are given twice a day for five days.

Peramivir is given once intravenously by a health care provider and is approved for early treatment of flu in people 6 months and older.

Baloxavir is a pill given as a single dose by mouth and is approved for early treatment of flu in children aged 5 years to less than 12 years who do not have any chronic medical conditions, and for all people aged 12 years and older. (Note: Baloxavir (trade name Xofluza) is not recommended for treatment of flu in pregnant people, lactating people, or in outpatients with complicated or progressive illness because there is no information about use of baloxavir in these patients. Baloxavir is also not recommended for treatment of flu in hospitalized patients due to limited data.)

How long should antiviral drugs be taken?

To treat flu, oseltamivir or inhaled zanamivir are usually prescribed for five days, while one dose of intravenous peramivir or one dose of oral Baloxavir are usually prescribed. Oseltamivir treatment is given to hospitalized patients, and some patients might be treated for more than five days.

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What are the possible side effects of antiviral drugs?

Side effects vary for each medication. The most common side effects for oseltamivir are nausea and vomiting. Zanamivir can cause bronchospasm, and peramivir can cause diarrhea. Other less common side effects also have been reported. Your health care provider can give you more information about these drugs or you can check the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website for specific information about antiviral drugs, including the manufacturers package insert.
UltraTech Cement records consolidated net sales of INR164bn

22 January 2024

UltraTech Cement Ltd (Aditya Birla Group) has released its financial results for the quarter ended 31 December 2023, reporting consolidated net sales of INR164,870m (US$1.983bn) compared with INR152,990m of the corresponding period of the previous year. Profit after tax was INR17770m, the highest-ever quarterly figure as compared to INR10580m in 3QFY22-23.



The domestic grey cement sales volume rose five per cent YoY and one per cent QoQ, respectively. Improved operational efficiencies, coupled with lower fuel and raw material costs resulted in improved EBITDA margins.



The company continues to emphasise on green mobility with the pilot-scale introduction of electric trucks for transportation of clinker. The company has also pledged to deploy 500 electric trucks and add 1000 CNG/LNG vehicles in its operations by June 2025 as part of the Government of Indias eFAST initiative.



A total of 24 per cent of the companys power requirements are met through green power sources. During the quarter, the company commissioned additional 2MW of solar power taking its capacity to 455MW in addition to waste heat recovery systems of 264MW. UltraTech is aiming to use of 85 per cent green power by the end of 2030.



During the quarter, the company acquired a 0.54Mta cement grinding asset of Burnpur Cement Ltd, located at Patratu in Jharkhand for a consideration of INR169,790m, marking its entry in the state of Jharkhand.

UltraTech has successfully completed the first phase of capacity expansion announced in December 2020. Work on the second phase of 22.6Mta announced in June 2022 is in full swing and will start commissioning during the current quarter itself, ahead of schedule.



For the third phase of growth of 21.9Mta announced in October 2023, major orders to key technology suppliers have already been placed and civil work has commenced on a few locations.



Applications have been filed with the stock exchanges for the proposed acquisition of 10.75Mta cement assets of Kesoram Industries limited and the same will be consolidated with the company upon receipt of all regulatory approvals.



Upon completion of these expansions/acquisition, UltraTechs capacity will grow to 195.4Mta, including its operations in the UAE, reinforcing its position as the largest cement company in India by far.



Outlook

Given the governments focus on infrastructure growth and the consequent rising demand for urban housing, the cement sector is poised for strong growth in the coming years.

Published under
High volatility in USG Supramax/Ultramax markets

ICR Newsroom By 22 January 2024

By Brannvoll ApS, Denmark

The first half of the month went very well for the Supramax/Ultramax owners in USG. The market was strong with levels increasing considerably as demand remained healthy for December dates and there was minimal tonnage supply to handle an increasing volume of cargo requirements.

Nevertheless, closer to the end of the month, the USG market started getting softer due to limited fresh demand being introduced. Amid the upcoming holidays most requirements with spot dates were already covered, resulting in owners being forced to compete to secure cargoes for their vessels. Petcoke orders represented the major part of available cargoes.

Freight rates for the transportation of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from Houston to ARA ports with spot laycans are at US$27/t on average. Deals for the delivery of 50,000t of petcoke from Houston to Iskenderun with spot laycans are discussed at around US$33/t on average. Shipping costs for the delivery of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from USG to EC India are at US$60/t on average.

Market activity will be slowly recovering after holiday breaks, however, with demand in the USG showing signs of increasing for mid-late January dates, we await to see whether the momentum will pick up.

Published under
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Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report:

AIGBE, SILVIA

4797 FOREST WOOD LN Chattanooga, 37343

Age at Arrest: 25 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

LEFT OF CENTER VIOLATION

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

NO PROOF OF INSURANCE



BLACKMON, JOSEPH ANTHONY

905 W 37TH ST Chattanooga, 37410

Age at Arrest: 36 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

VANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF



COFFEL, KALEB CAINE

1934 OLD CHATTANOOGA PIKE SW CLEVELAND, 373118499

Age at Arrest: 37 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

THEFT OF SERVICES

VANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF

PUBLIC INTOXICATION



COLLIER-EATON, KAHLIYAH DANIELLE

5415 SCHOOL ST OOLTEWAH, 37363

Age at Arrest: 25 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

FAILURE TO APPEAR



COLLINS, CHRISTOFFER KORIMELIUS

7604 STANDIFER GAP ROAD APT #212 CHATTANOOGA, 37421

Age at Arrest: 39 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT



COPELAND, BRIAN C

3715WESTON DR CHATTANOOGA, 37312

Age at Arrest: 25 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



DEVLIN, JOSEPH LEE

1448 VANCE ROAD CHATTANOOGA, 374021828

Age at Arrest: 27 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

SPEEDING

HEADLIGHTS ON MOTOR VEHICLES (INCLEMENT WEATHER)

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

IMPLIED CONSENT LAW - DRIVERS



FLANAGAN, CARMITTA ANISE

2108 RAULSTON ST CHATTANOOGA, 37404

Age at Arrest: 50 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

THEFT OF PROPERTY

FORGERY



FLEMING, FRANCIS LATASHA

4012 VETERANS WAY CHATTANOOGA, 37411

Age at Arrest: 37 years old

Arresting Agency: East Ridge

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE



FORAKER, AMBER NICOLE

1020 HIGHLAND AVE JASPER, 37347

Age at Arrest: 32 years old

Arresting Agency: Red Bank

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE



GENTRY, MATTHEW T

7441 COMMONS BLVD CHATTANOOGA, 37403

Age at Arrest: 20 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



HARDWOOD, SARA LORAINE

727 E 11TH ST CHATTANOOGA, 37403

Age at Arrest: 28 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)



HILL, JIMMY LEBRON

2300 E 3RD ST CHATTANOOGA, 37415

Age at Arrest: 33 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

BURGLARY

AGGRAVATED CRIMINAL TRESPASS



HUGHES, BRADISHIA

2510 OAK ST CHATTANOOGA, 374041616

Age at Arrest: 18 years old

Arresting Agency:

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



KENNEDY, TRACIE MICHELLE

1709 CAMBRIDGE DR CHATTANOOGA, 374111004

Age at Arrest: 51 years old

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



LONG, BONNIE E

4101 WEAVER ST KNOXVILLE,

Age at Arrest: 18 years old

Arresting Agency:

DOMESTIC ASSAULT



MARRERO, ALEXANDER P

1751 RAILROAD ST DAYTON, 37321

Age at Arrest: 24 years old

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff

POSS.

OF HANDGUN WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCEDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEOPEN CONTAINER LAWRESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESSMARSH, JACKSON COLBY5600 ALABAMA AVE CHATTANOOGA, 37409Age at Arrest: 18 years oldArresting Agency: Tenn Hwy PatrolSPEEDINGFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYOPEN CONTAINER LAWDRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED, AGE 16 TO 21UNDERAGE DRINKINGRECKLESS DRIVINGPACE, SHAY L428 BURNINGS ST TRENTON, 30752Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgePOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIAPROMOTING MANUFACTURING METHAMPHETAMINERECKLESS ENDANGERMENTPEREZ VELASQUEZ, RANDY ALEXIS213 FOUST ST CHATTANOOGA, 37407Age at Arrest: 19 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDDRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINEOPEN CONTAINER LAWFINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITYDRIVING WITHOUT DRIVERS LICENSE / EXPIRED LICENSEMINOR IN POSSESSION OF ALCOHOLDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCERIPPLE, ROBERT COREY9131 TYSON DRIVE HARRISON, 37341Age at Arrest: 34 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffVIOLATION OF PROBATION(THEFT OF PROPERTY)EVADING ARRESTEVADING ARRESTSHELTON, WILLIAM JOSEPH1038 GRAYSVILLE RD CHATTANOOGA, 374214326Age at Arrest: 35 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDVIOLATION OF ORDER OF PROTECTION OR RESTRAINING ORTHOMAS, JULIAN LOWEN4836 SWAN RD CHATTANOOGA, 374161953Age at Arrest: 31 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffDOMESTIC ASSAULTVOGEL, BRANDON ALLEN636 WEST 14TH STREET COURT CHATTANOOGA, 37402Age at Arrest: 24 years oldArresting Agency: HC SheriffNONSUPPORT AND FLAGRANT NONSUPPORTWADE, RONDALE746 W 12TH STREET CT Chattanooga, 374023703Age at Arrest: 33 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDOBSTRUCTING HIGHWAY OR OTHER PASSAGEWAYDRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEIMPLIED CONSENT LAW - DRIVERSDRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSEWILLIAMS, DEMARCUS DASHUN1910 RAWLINGS ST CHATTANOOGA, 381067002Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: Chattanooga PDDOMESTIC ASSAULTWRIGHT, CHRISTOPHER TYLER12291 HWY 11 TRENTON, 30752Age at Arrest: 30 years oldArresting Agency: East RidgePROMOTING MANUFACTURING METHAMPHETAMINEPOSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIARECKLESS ENDANGERMENTCRIMINAL IMPERSONATION

Here are the mug shots:

AIGBE, SILVIA

Age at Arrest: 25

Date of Birth: 02/27/1998

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

LEFT OF CENTER VIOLATION

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

NO PROOF OF INSURANCE BALES, MARTHA JEANETTE

Age at Arrest: 50

Date of Birth: 12/23/1973

Arresting Agency: Collegedale



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

BLACKMON, JOSEPH ANTHONY

Age at Arrest: 36

Date of Birth: 11/02/1982

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

VANDALISM/MALICIOUS MISCHIEF COLLIER-EATON, KAHLIYAH DANIELLE

Age at Arrest: 25

Date of Birth: 10/13/1998

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

FAILURE TO APPEAR COLLINS, CHRISTOFFER KORIMELIUS

Age at Arrest: 39

Date of Birth: 02/01/1984

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT COPELAND, BRIAN C

Age at Arrest: 25

Date of Birth: 09/18/1998

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT FLANAGAN, CARMITTA ANISE

Age at Arrest: 50

Date of Birth: 02/14/1973

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

THEFT OF PROPERTY

FORGERY FLEMING, FRANCIS LATASHA

Age at Arrest: 37

Date of Birth: 04/13/1986

Arresting Agency: East Ridge



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE FORAKER, AMBER NICOLE

Age at Arrest: 32

Date of Birth: 01/01/1992

Arresting Agency: Red Bank



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE

GENTRY, MATTHEW T

Age at Arrest: 20

Date of Birth: 12/01/2003

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT GORE, AUSTYN CHASE

Age at Arrest: 27

Date of Birth: 06/12/1996

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

HARDWOOD, SARA LORAINE

Age at Arrest: 28

Date of Birth: 01/08/1996

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

HAYES, DENNIS D

Age at Arrest: 18

Date of Birth: 04/22/2005

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT HILL, JIMMY LEBRON

Age at Arrest: 33

Date of Birth: 02/21/1990

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

BURGLARY

AGGRAVATED CRIMINAL TRESPASS HUGHES, BRADISHIA

Age at Arrest: 18

Date of Birth: 09/12/2005

Arresting Agency:



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT JONES, ROBERT ONEAL

Age at Arrest: 59

Date of Birth: 11/11/1960

Arresting Agency: Collegedale



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Booked for Previous Charges or Other Reason(s)

KENNEDY, TRACIE MICHELLE

Age at Arrest: 51

Date of Birth: 11/11/1972

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT LONG, BONNIE E

Age at Arrest: 18

Date of Birth: 07/29/2005

Arresting Agency:



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT LOPEZ, NOEL

Age at Arrest: 44

Date of Birth: 10/08/1979

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

STOP SIGN VIOLATION

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

TRAILER REGISTRATION REQUIRED

DRIVING WITHOUT DRIVERS LICENSE / EXPIRED LICENSE

MARRERO, ALEXANDER P

Age at Arrest: 24

Date of Birth: 11/17/1999

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

POSS. OF HANDGUN WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

OPEN CONTAINER LAW

RESISTING ARREST OR OBSTRUCTION OF LEGAL PROCESS MARSH, JACKSON COLBY

Age at Arrest: 18

Date of Birth: 09/02/2005

Arresting Agency: Tenn Hwy Patrol



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

SPEEDING

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

OPEN CONTAINER LAW

DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED, AGE 16 TO 21

UNDERAGE DRINKING

RECKLESS DRIVING PACE, SHAY L

Age at Arrest: 30

Date of Birth: 07/23/1993

Arresting Agency: East Ridge



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

PROMOTING MANUFACTURING METHAMPHETAMINE

RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT PARKS, DANIEL STEPHAN

Age at Arrest: 30

Date of Birth: 03/23/1993

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

PUBLIC INTOXICATION PEREZ VELASQUEZ, RANDY ALEXIS

Age at Arrest: 19

Date of Birth: 05/08/2004

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DRIVING LEFT OF CENTER LINE

OPEN CONTAINER LAW

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

DRIVING WITHOUT DRIVERS LICENSE / EXPIRED LICENSE

MINOR IN POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE ROGERS, JAMES L

Age at Arrest: 66

Date of Birth: 05/10/1957

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

LEAVING SCENE OF ACCIDENT W/DAMAGE TO VEHICLE

DRIVING ON REVOKED, SUSPENDED OR CANCELLED LICENSE

DRIVERS TO EXERCISE DUE CARE THOMAS, JULIAN LOWEN

Age at Arrest: 31

Date of Birth: 03/04/1992

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

DOMESTIC ASSAULT VOGEL, BRANDON ALLEN

Age at Arrest: 24

Date of Birth: 12/21/1999

Arresting Agency: HC Sheriff



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

NONSUPPORT AND FLAGRANT NONSUPPORT WADE, RONDALE

Age at Arrest: 33

Date of Birth: 03/20/1989

Arresting Agency: Chattanooga PD



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

VIOLATION OF REGISTRATION LAW

POSSESSION OF A FIREARM WITH PRIOR FELONY DRUG CON WRIGHT, CHRISTOPHER TYLER

Age at Arrest: 30

Date of Birth: 05/10/1993

Arresting Agency: East Ridge



Last Date of Arrest: 01/21/2024

Charge(s):

PROMOTING MANUFACTURING METHAMPHETAMINE

POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT

CRIMINAL IMPERSONATION




Governor Bill Lee announced he will deliver his sixth State of the State address to the General Assembly and fellow Tennesseans on Monday, Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. CST. The joint session will take place in the House Chamber of the Tennessee State Capitol.Tennessee is continuing to lead the nation as a beacon of opportunity, security and freedom, said Governor Lee. Every Tennessean has an important role to play as we strengthen and secure our states future, and in the coming year, I look forward to working with the General Assembly to accomplish our legislative priorities and make life better for all.The address can be found on Lees Facebook and YouTube channels and will be aired statewide.
The Photographic Society of Chattanooga will present Barry Spruce at its meeting on Thursday, Feb. 15. The presentation will begin at 7 p.m. at the St. John United Methodist Church, 3921 Murray Hills Dr. in Chattanooga."Mr. Spruces love affair with photography began at the early age of 10, when he received his first camera, a 110 Kodak Instamatic, as a Christmas present," officials said. "After graduating high school, he began his career in the automotive parts industry, and upgraded his camera to a film SLR.In 1990, Barry visited the Smoky Mountains, and moved there a few short months later. He made the change to digital photography in 2004 and began developing his portfolio. In 2007, Barry retired from the automotive parts industry, and begin his second career as a nature and wildlife photographer. He teaches, runs workshops, gives presentations,has been published and has his own gallery, Cades Cove Gallery in Townsend. Another gallery in Maryville also carries his work."Mr. Spruces presentation will be, 'Jackson Hole and the Grand Teton MountainsA Photographers Paradise,' as he will provide many tips, tricks and gear recommendations to help you bring back amazing images."Boot Camp will begin at 6 p.m. with Richard Smith discussing, 2023 Lightroom Updates. Visitors are always welcome.For more information, call 423-344-5643 or e-mail Lin Prabish at president@chattanoogaphoto.org. For more information about thePhotographic Society of Chattanooga, visit https://chattanoogaphoto.org.
3/18/2024

Chief John Ross Chapter, NSDAR had their March meeting on the 13th, and the meeting theme was Womens History Month. Officials said, "Chapter member, Kay Sencabaugh, presented an entertaining ... more
China, DRC vow to deepen cooperation

Xinhua) 11:18, January 22, 2024

President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) meets with Shen Yueyue, Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy, also the vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jan. 21, 2024. At the invitation of President of the DRC Felix Tshisekedi, Shen attended the inauguration of President Tshisekedi in DRC's capital Kinshasa on Jan. 20. (DR Congo's presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

KINSHASA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) met with Shen Yueyue, Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy, here on Sunday after Shen attended Tshisekedi's inauguration one day ago.

Shen, also the vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, conveyed Xi's cordial greetings and good wishes to Tshisekedi, saying that China attaches great importance to the development of China-DRC relations.

China is willing to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, firmly support each other's core interests, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote the development of people-to-people friendship, Shen said.

China is ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, aiming to build a stronger and more dynamic comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with the DRC, Shen said.

For his part, Tshisekedi sincerely thanked Xi for sending a special envoy to attend his inauguration ceremony and asked Shen to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to his Chinese counterpart.

Tshisekedi spoke highly of the progress made in the cooperation package of "resource for projects" between the DRC and China, emphasizing that the DRC highly values the traditional friendship between the two countries.

The DRC firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to deepen cooperation with China in key areas such as mining, so as to push bilateral relations to a higher level, he added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Police were called to Arbys at 5420 Brainerd Road where a woman said she was in a disorder with another woman. The first woman said she threw water at the other woman because she was spit on. The other woman had left before police arrived.

* * *

The Homeless Engagement Team was notified that there was a campsite set up underneath the overpass at 500 W. Main St. Officers arrived and found two couches with blankets and pillows, multiple chairs, a mini-fridge, and other items showing signs of being inhabited. The area was checked a second time later in the evening and it was still empty.

* * *

A man on Bledsoe Terrace told police he had moved there a few months ago and said the neighbors had been harassing him. He believed his next door neighbor and two neighbors down the road had been throwing things at his trailer and knocking over his trash can when he wasn't home. The man didnt have any evidence of who the exact individuals were doing this, but believed it was the three neighbors east of his residence. He said he had been recently diagnosed with a disorder, and he seemed to be in an emotional state when speaking with police. At the time there was no evidence to show anyone was the culprit of the mans claims.

* * *

Police got a call from a man from outside the Federal Courthouse. He spoke of meeting with the Marshals, but not making sense. Police spoke with the man in Miller Park. He only provided his name for police and spoke very limited. After sometime he said he didnt need police. He was a black male, about 6'2, roughly 180 pounds, wearing a black knit cap, glasses, gray sweatshirt, pants, black socks and no shoes.

* * *

Police were sent to Gann Store Road to conduct a wellness check. A woman had called and said her father, 95, had locked himself out of his house. Police arrived and spoke with the man who was back inside his residence. He said he was fine and would contact his daughter to let her know he was no longer locked out.

* * *

A driver for Chattanooga Impound Services told police he had towed a red 2003 Ford Mustang from Hickory Valley Road, but the Tennessee registration went to a 1999 Lexus. The Mustang was last registered in 2021 to a different woman. Neither the vehicle nor the registration was reported stolen. An officer removed the registration from the vehicle and turned it into Property, and Chattanooga Impound Services towed the car.

* * *

An officer reported a disabled vehicle at 213 Shallowford Road. The Chevrolet Cruze was obstructing a travel lane. The driver said her uncle was on the way to assist with towing. After a considerable wait, and with no sign of the uncle, the officer decided to call for a tow service. Doug Yates was dispatched and successfully towed the womans car.

* * *

A suspicious white male wearing all black was reported hanging around the Publix loading dock area at 3535 Broad St., screaming in the air. Police arrived and spoke to the man who said he was looking for his father and was also upset that his bicycle wheel had fallen off. The man was asked if he needed any assistance or a ride to any location of his choice, but he refused all offers for help and agreed to leave the property.

* * *

A man on Cemetery Avenue told police an unknown black male wearing all black rang his doorbell. When he went to the door the unknown man instructed him to open the door. The man refused and went to the kitchen and saw two other unknown black males wearing all black through his window. The unknown men appeared to be hiding. He then notified officers. Officers attempted to find the men but were unsuccessful. The man asked for his residence be placed on the watch list for two weeks.
Major Gift Fuels Education Program at National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and Announcement of 2024 Teacher Fellows



The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center announces General B.B. Bell has made a major gift of $50,000 in honor of his late wife, Mrs. Katie Fields Bell. Throughout her life, Mrs. Bell was a passionate advocate for education, and the gift will directly support the Heritage Centers Teacher Fellowship Program. This new program engages local and regional classroom teachers in ways that help the Heritage Center create instructional materials and lessons plans, making the Heritage Center more accessible to teachers and students of all grade levels.

General Bell has been a tremendous supporter of the Heritage Center well before our opening in 2020,"s aid David Currey, executive director of the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. "He continues to set an example for all of us to follow in our obligations to the next generation of Americans. It goes without saying that his generous contribution has elevated our educational programs to new heights. Thanks to his generous gift, educators from across the region will benefit from this program as we continue to grow our teacher development initiatives beyond the Southeast and into other parts of the country.

The Centers Teacher Fellowship Program launched in 2023 with the aim of exposing educators to the Medal of Honor, the six character values associated with the medal, and the stories of recipients serving in various conflicts throughout the nations history in an effort to create instructional materials aligned with state standards.

Chattanooga is the birthplace of the Medal of Honor, and its exciting to see this program grow each year thanks to people like General Bell, said Maranda Wilkinson, director of education at the Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center. We see it as our duty to share these inspiring stories of ordinary individuals who, amid extraordinary circumstances, mustered the courage to take one more step forward, and then another and another.

Ms. Wilkinson continued, Not everyone will join the military and serve on the battlefield, but we each have our own personal battlefields we must navigate daily. Weaving Medal of Honor recipient stories of courage, commitment, integrity, sacrifice, citizenship and patriotism into our state standards-aligned lessons teachers can actually use ensures student access to examples of how those who came before them navigated extreme challenges and uncertainty.

The Heritage Center expanded its 2024 Teacher Fellowship Program to include educators from across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, and the Center is delighted to announce its newest cohort of Fellows:

Amanda Stanford  Wolftever Creek Elementary

Bethany Norman  Westview Elementary

Maria Chattin  East Ridge Elementary

Erin Coggins  Sparkman High School

Jennifer Lewis  North Lake Elementary

Amanda Thurmond  Saint Jude School

Jessica Holloway  Hamilton County Schools

Emily Hurst  Hamilton County Schools

Emily Ezell  Cowan Elementary

Brittany Haynes  Rivermont Elementary

Bailee McDonald  Lookout Mountain Elementary

Ricky McEvoy  Thrasher Elementary

Abby Klett  East Hamilton Middle

Mary Sutherland  Ooltewah Elementary

Tracy Sodergren  Ringgold Middle

Becky Dubose  Chattanooga School for the Liberal Arts

Melanie Collins  Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy

Bekah Reed  Hamilton County Schools

Bruce Stubblefield  Hamilton County Schools.



The applicant pool for this years Fellowship included a wide range of accomplished educators, and the selection process was challenging," said Ms. Wilkinson. "Among this years cohort is a 2018 Alabama History Teacher of the Year, a 2018 VFW National Teacher of the Year, and a 2022 EdTech Leadership Award winner in addition to other recognitions. We are thrilled to have educators with backgrounds in English Language Arts, Theater, STEM, and Social Studies this year. The stories of Medal of Honor recipients should not be confined to the Social Studies classroom, and including educators from multiple content areas and grade levels in our program increases the chances of reaching students with varying interests and across age ranges.

To learn more about the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center and its mission, please visit www.MOHHC.org or call 877-2525.






At the end of a highly emotional hearing on Monday, former EMT Justin Whaley was sentenced to serve nine years in state prison for the wrong-way traffic death of James Brumlow on July 2, 2018.

He had faced 8-12 years in prison after a Criminal Court jury found him guilty of vehicular homicide by intoxication and other charges.

Judge Boyd Patterson said he agreed with several witnesses who said Whaley, of all people, should have known the dangers of drinking and driving after working many tragic wrecks in the very section where the accident happened on Highway 111.

Whaley was taken into custody after his conviction in late October of last year and has been in jail since.

Attorney Lee Davis said the defense is almost ready to file a motion for a new trial. A March 11 hearing date was set.

He said he believes the appeal has merit and asked that Whaley be allowed bond during the appeal. He said the appeal is expected to go to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals and could take a lengthy time. He said perhaps Whaley would have served the time prior to a final appeal ruling.

Whaley is eligible for parole consideration after serving 30 percent of the term.

Judge Patterson denied the bond request, but said Whaley would be kept in a local jail until the March 11 hearing.

Several Brumlow family members blasted Whaley and said they did not want to hear an apology from him. However, a sobbing Whaley said, "I am sorry from the bottom of my heart."

He said he had "spent my life helping people" only to make a mistake in judgment that took a life.

Whaley, who operates a shooting range in Van Buren County with 14 employees, said he thinks of the victim every day. He said, "I was the one who messed up. I know that. I have known that from the beginning. I should have been the one who died."

He said he plans to serve his sentence "with honor and dignity," then return to a career "of service to others."

His wife, Heather, said both families have been "devastated" by the tragedy. She said as soon as her husband learned the address of the victim's family he wrote them a letter of apology.

She said her husband "has told me many times that he wishes he was the one who was killed."

Brumlow family members described the victim as a loving family man with a sense of humor. His oldest son said his father was on his way to work a new job when he hit the Whaley vehicle head on at the bottom of Highway 111 just before the merger with U.S. 27.

He said he and other family members cannot get the vision of seeing the victim after the wreck out of their minds.

Of an apology, he said, "We could care less. We don't want to hear it."

Another son said he was away in the military when "I was pulled aside and told by a stranger that my father was dead."

He told the defendant, "You know better than anybody else what drinking and driving can do."

On the night prior to the wreck, Whaley had been with a friend tasting bourbon samples at the top of Retro Hughes Road. His plan was to sleep it off at the friend's house, but he woke up early and left the house shortly after 5 a.m. when it was still dark.

The victim's mother-in-law told Whaley, "I hope the rest of your life is a living hell.'

The baby sister of the victim said she was stocking at the Soddy Daisy Walmart when she encountered Whaley in the store. She said she went to the family bathroom "and I screamed." She said she saw him several times afterward and has suffered bouts of depression since.
The Duke of Sussex initially learned his father would be having surgery from the news. Harry has also reportedly reached out to both King Charles and Kate Middleton following their respective health issues.

Like the rest of the world, Prince Harry reportedly heard about King Charless health problems from the news. The Duke of Sussex was not reportedly told about his fathers enlarged prostate by the king himself.

Prince Harry did not learn of King Charles prostate problems from the monarch

The Duke of Sussex reportedly learned of King Charles planned medical procedure for an enlarged prostate after reading about it online, sources told the Telegraph. Only after Prince Harry received the information via the news did a message reach him from the palace.

Insiders said while the palace made an effort to inform all senior members of the royal family, including Harry, the private message reached Harry after the public announcement. A formal declaration regarding Charless health was released publicly on Jan. 17, 2024, at 3:25 p.m. U.K. time. It was 7:25 a.m. in California when the news was released.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle break silence on King Charles and Kate Middletons health

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry reportedly sent well-wishes to King Charles and Kate Middleton | Victoria Jones/AFP via Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have broken their silence on King Charles and Kate Middletons health issues. Within hours of the other, Kensington Palace released information that Kate Middleton was currently hospitalized following abdominal surgery, while the king would be having his own procedure for an enlarged prostate.

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 express their concern and best wishes.

But Harry and Meghans alleged olive branch comes months after Piers Morgan claimed royal expert author Omid Scobie named Charles and Kate as the royals concerned over Prince Archies skin color (via the New York Post). Scobie wrote a book titled Endgame but did not name the royals involved. However, a Dutch version of the tell-all did.

Kate Middleton and King Charles are dealing with separate health battles

Kate Middleton underwent a planned abdominal surgery on Jan. 16. She will remain hospitalized for upwards of two weeks.

The Princess of Wales will resume her royal duties after the Easter holiday. In 2024, Easter falls on March 31.

As for Charles, he is expected to have his surgical procedure to correct an enlarged prostate this week. The prostate is located between the pelvis and the bladder, and as it grows in size, it can put pressure on the bladder and urethra.

Buckingham Palace shared the following message regarding Charles health in a statement. His majesty was keen to share the details of his diagnosis to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked in line with public health advice.

Prince Harry has not officially confirmed how he learned of King Charles medical condition.
50 Cent rung in the new year with lesser weight when he celebrated alongside Cuba Gooding Jr. for the actor's birthday.

50 Cent got back in touch with his old self not too long ago, and shed a noticeable amount of weight to do so.

50 Cent | Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

The business mogul took pictures at Cuba Gooding Jr.s birthday party last month, showing off a much sleeker physique reminiscent of his early 2000s look.

50 Cent | Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

But his old body found common ground with his newer, more contemporary style. Early 2000s 50 Cent was often seen wearing G-Unit branded apparel with long sleeves and baggy pants.

50 Cent | Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Nowadays, his outfits are similar to what he wore to Gooding Jrs party. There, he wore a regular-sized and deceptively modest black t-shirt with matching colored jeans.

He also sported a black fitted New York cap to shout out the city and state that birthed him. The gold chain around his neck was perhaps the highlight of his wardrobe.

50 Cent and Cuba Gooding Jr. | Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

He popped bottles with birthday boy Gooding Jr., who entered his 56th year in style. The actor wore a polished red leather jacket along with green pants.

50 Cent and Cuba Gooding Jr. | Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

Gooding Jr. would be seen posing alongside 50 Cent without the jacket as well. The actor wore a black t-shirt that paid tribute to the legendary Bass Reeves, a former slave turned lawman in the 1800s.

50 Cents weight loss shouldnt come as a complete surprise. The rapper had gotten used to carrying a heavier look over the years.

50 Cent | Johnny Nunez/Getty Images

But earlier in 2023, he announced plans to go on a massive tour that very well might be his last. To give his fans the explosive shows they were expecting, he felt he needed to lose weight to tap into his older but more youthful energy.

Ima start talking mad s*** when Im back in shape. Thats when I want to fight and s*** like that, he once posted on social media according to Hot New Hip Hop.

50 Cent | Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images

Based on his new look, it seems 50 Cent mightve earned his bragging rights.
David Woolley's neice and two nephews were killed in Mexico in 2019, years before he became a public figure thanks to his marriage to 'Sister Wives' star, Christine Brown.

David Woolley and his family gathered in October 2023 to celebrate a happy occasion. Sister Wives star Christine Brown and Woolley tied the knot in a ceremony that was later aired on TV. While things are looking up for both Christine Brown and David Woolley, the Woolley family has dealt with two major tragedies in the last 15 years.

David Woolleys niece and other family members were killed in Mexico

David Woolley didnt just lose his wife in recent years. Following Margaret Woolleys 2012 death, the Woolley family suffered the loss of several more family members in 2019. According to the U.S. Sun, Woolleys niece and her two children, David Woolleys great-nephews, were murdered in Mexico.

According to news reports from the incident, Dawna Langford, Woolleys niece, was driving in Mexico when a drug cartel ambushed her and several other vehicles, all containing members of a FLDS sect. Langford and two of her children, Trevor Langford, age 11, and Rogan Langford, age 2, died in the gunfire. Two other women and four other children were killed in the ambush.

According to several reports, the group was traveling for a wedding when the incident occurred. While Langford and two of her children died in the ambush, several more of her children survived. They now live stateside.

According to the New York Post, the family of those killed filed a lawsuit in North Dakota. The cartel responsible for the deaths was ordered to pay $1.5 billion to the families of those murdered. It is unclear if any restitution has been paid.

While most people are familiar with the polygamist sects that settled in Utah and surrounding states, there are also polygamist sects located in Mexico. Ervil LeBaron, a relative of Christine Brown, founded a polygamist sect in the country. Christines grandfather was murdered by LeBarons followers.

David Woolley lost his wife 7 years before the killings

David Woolley was no stranger to loss when his niece and her children were killed in Mexico. The Utah resident lost his wife tragically. According to official police records, his first wife Margaret Woolley was found dead inside a hotel room in June 2012.

According to police reports, the police searched for Woolley in June 2012 after friends and family became concerned for her well-being. While police were looking for the 43-year-old, a hotel employee found her body inside a hotel room. The death was ruled a suicide.
catalysis is one of the key technologies in the chemical industry and has a wide-reaching impact on various aspects of our daily lives, including plastics manufacturing, drug synthesis, and production of both fertilizers and fuels. It is estimated that over 90% of chemical products are nowadays manufactured with the involvement of catalysis in at least one stage (Catal. Today, 2011, 163(1)). Catalysis is a complex process that relies on the precise structural control of several elements at the crossroads of phase (in-)stabilities. While long-term stable catalysts are indispensable in order to promote high-performance and efficient reactions, reactants undergo major chemical changes, leading to the formation of final and desired products. In heterogeneous catalysis, catalyst and reactants exist in different phases.

Heterogeneous catalysts are often dynamic under operation. Now, the mechanism of CH4 dry reforming on Ni is studied by in situ microscopy and spectroscopy, revealing the formation of metastable surface nickeloxygen structures from CO2 dissociation that exhibit different catalytic properties and induce rate oscillations.  FHI

Among the various heterogeneous catalytic processes, dry reforming of methane (DRM) has recently become the subject of academic attention, as it converts two greenhouse gases, methane (CH 4 ) and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), into hydrogen (H 2 ) and carbon monoxide (CO). This mixture is also known as syngas and can be used to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels by consecutively building up larger hydrocarbons via the Fischer-Tropsch chemistry. Although Nickel- and Cobalt-based catalysts, being low cost and highly available on Earth, have shown promising activity for DRM, designing high-performance catalysts is often challenging as the connection between chemical dynamics, the formation of the active surface species and their reaction pathways is generally missing. This knowledge can only be gained from so called operando experiments in which structure and function are probed simultaneously.

A collaborative effort by scientists from the Departments of Inorganic Chemistry and Theory at the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society in Berlin provided fundamental insights into the processes occurring at the catalyst surface and on how this modulates the catalytic performance during DRM.

In particular, they studied the role of different oxygen species on a Nickel catalyst during DRM by using a combination of experimental and computational science techniques, including operando scanning electron microscopy, near ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and computer vision. They highlighted the critical role of dissociative CO 2 adsorption in regulating the oxygen content of the catalyst and CH 4 activation. Furthermore, they discovered the presence of three metastable oxygen species at the catalyst: atomic surface oxygen, subsurface oxygen, and bulk NiO x . Interestingly, these exhibited different catalytic properties and their interplay and transformation gave rise to oscillations in the surface states and in the catalytic function.

They observed that some of the surface oxygen leaked into the catalyst bulk, reducing the availability of the catalyst for CH 4 activation and favoring CO 2 and O diffusion instead. The extent of the leakage was further proved by X-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy, revealing the presence of oxygen several nanometers below the surface of the catalysts. Consequently, new metallic sites were exposed, thus leading to an increased rate of the oxygen uptake and to a decrease of the H 2 /CO product ratio. Lastly, they understood that co-feeding of CO 2 is essential for CH 4 conversion, likely assisting its activation together with the presence of oxygenated species. "It was impressive to see how the metastability of the Ni-O system self-adjusts the catalytic performance and that one element from the reactants can direct the entire process which depends on its location and its chemistry. We hope that our findings can give new momentum in adjusting longevity and selectivity in catalysis, says PD Dr. Thomas Lunkenbein, leader of the project and co-author of the study.
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Bad news has been the norm for Catholics in Nicaragua, where clergy and church groups have been frequent targets of a wide-ranging crackdown for years. But on January 14, 2024, they received a happy surprise: The government unexpectedly released two bishops, 15 priests and two seminary students from prison and expelled them to the Vatican.

Those released included Bishop Rolando Alvarez, a high-profile political prisoner who was detained in 2022 for criticizing the government and then sentenced to 26 years in prison for alleged treason.

They also included priests detained by President Daniel Ortegas government in late December 2023 for expressing solidarity with Alvarez and other political prisoners. Days later, Pope Francis criticized the regime in his New Years message and then called for respectful diplomatic dialogue.

Nearly six years after mass protests erupted against Ortega and then were brutally repressed, these prisoner releases offer some hope to Nicaraguas opposition. As my research has shown, however, the Ortega regime is unrelenting in trying to retain power, which suggests this is not necessarily a turning point. In fact, the government reportedly took yet another priest into custody on January 16.

Why target the church?

Ortega first led Nicaragua from 1979 to 1990, after his left-wing revolutionary organization, the Sandinista National Liberation Front, or FSLN, spearheaded the overthrow of dictator Anastasio Somoza Debayle. In the 1980s, the FSLN clashed with the Vatican and church hierarchy over the groups socialist politics, even as many poorer Nicaraguan Catholics embraced them.

When Ortega took office again in 2007, however, he did so with the blessing of Christian leaders. During the 2006 elections, he had turned to alliances with Catholic and Protestant elites to return to power in exchange for adopting conservative social policies like banning abortion.

Over the next decade, Ortega remained popular, presiding over economic growth in collaboration with business leaders and developing new public infrastructure and services.

Yet he and the FSLN party he controlled were also consolidating power and governing in an increasingly authoritarian manner. Ortega won reelection in 2011 and then retained power in fraudulent elections in 2016. Opposition candidates were disqualified, and Ortegas running mate was his wife, Rosario Murillo.

Unexpectedly, Ortegas popularity and his relationship with the church came crashing down in April 2018, when the government announced cutbacks in social security benefits for retirees. Nicaraguans from all backgrounds took to the streets, and Ortega and Murillo responded with a furious crackdown, unleashing police and pro-government paramilitaries armed with military-grade weapons.

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Cathedrals and churches tried to offer refuge to protesters, but over 300 people were killed. Church leaders facilitated a national dialogue between the government and an opposition coalition, but withdrew as repression continued.

When popular Catholic leaders criticized violence against protesters, the regime began viewing the church as a rival threatening Ortegas waning legitimacy. Police, paramilitaries and FSLN supporters started harassing and attacking clergy and Catholic institutions.

In 2019, the pope recalled Silvio Baez, the auxiliary bishop of Managua and a prominent critic of Ortega, from Nicaragua. Yet other bishops and priests still found themselves in the regimes crosshairs.

Some fled into exile or were blocked from entering Nicaragua if they traveled abroad. Others who stayed were kept under surveillance. Priests who expressed support for political prisoners or continued to criticize the regime, even in vague terms, could be arrested or beaten.

The government expelled 12 formerly detained priests to the Vatican in October 2023 after what the regime called fruitful conversations. But Alvarez, the highest-profile political prisoner, was still held by the government and was stripped of his citizenship after refusing to go into exile in February 2023.

Broader patterns of repression

Attacks on the church are a symptom of the Ortega regimes absolute intolerance for dissent.

With over 3,000 nongovernmental organizations shut down since 2018, the church has become Nicaraguas only major nonstate institution with nationwide reach.

[Editors note from CT: This year, Nicaragua saw the sharpest rise on Open Doors World Watch List due to restrictions on religious freedom, seizure of church and ministry properties, and the arrest or exile of Christian leaders.

The Nicaraguan government has shut down at least 256 evangelical organizations in the past two years. While over a third of Nicaraguans identify as evangelical, experts say the persecution of evangelicals has been more silent because some of their leaders still support Ortegas government and critics dont speak out for fear of retribution.]

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In a country where over 40 percent of the people identify as Catholic, many normally turn to the church in times of need. Suppressing Catholic institutions means Nicaraguans must turn to the state for aid, which monitors citizens and has been accused of denying services for perceived disloyalty.

At least 27 Catholic and secular universities have also been closed or seized by the government, as have more than 50 media outlets.

The governments decision to expel clergy on January 14 is also in line with its tendency to either block opponents reentry into Nicaragua or force them into exile. In many cases, Nicaragua has then revoked critics citizenship, as when it expelled 222 political prisoners in February 2023 to the United States.

When imprisonment or threats have not shaken critics resolve, Ortega and Murillo appear to have decided that keeping them abroad is best. Not only does this reduce the risks of anti-regime action in Nicaragua, but it may diminish international scrutiny of political prisoners mistreatment.

Cautious criticism

Since 2018, repression in Nicaragua has come in waves, with the brutal violence that repressed the protests shifting toward an environment of constant surveillance, legal actions against independent institutions and opponents, and periodic arrests. Moments of seeming calm, however, have often been followed by harsh crackdowns, such as a slew of arrests ahead of the 2021 elections.

Even as repression has mounted, the Vatican has been cautious about criticizing Ortega and Murillo, and some Nicaraguans and Catholics abroad have urged the pope to do more. Yet the Vaticans restraint has not appeared to decrease threats against clergy or limits on activities like religious processions.

In January 2024, however, Francis pointedly called attention to the crisis during two speeches, days after a dozen priests were arrested. One week later came the release of Alvarez and his colleagues  free to leave Nicaragua, but not to come back.

Catholic leaders remain Nicaraguas most popular figures, according to independent polling. This makes them a continued threat to Ortega and Murillos quest for total control. Ezequiel Buenfil Batun, the priest detained January 16, belonged to a religious order whose legal status was revoked that same day, along with several other nongovernment organizations.

As many Nicaraguans lose hope of conditions improving and dozens of political prisoners remain jailed, any positive news like the priests release is welcome. But it holds no guarantees of broader change ahead.

Kai M. Thaler is assistant professor of global studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. This article originally appeared at The Conversation.

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On a recent trip to Egypt, the chefs at our hotel put out a remarkable buffet of culinary delights presented with both excellent taste and exquisite aesthetics.

One of our group members served onto his plate a beautiful spread: a cucumber disc topped with a triangle of cheese, a baby tomato, and a swirl of what looked like a dessert mousse. Sitting back at our table, he took a bite, and his eyes went wide as he grimaced. What is this?! he cried. That sweet mousse turned out to be liver patenot at all what he was expecting!

Its the time of the year when many Christians embark on a new Bible reading plan. Reading through the Bible from cover to cover is a wonderful practice that exposes us to its less-familiar passages. We may discover new treasures along the way, tucked between the stories we know.

But we may also encounter passages wed rather spit out of our mouths, like my friends liver pate. Expecting inspiration, we may instead find hard words, troubling scenes, or confusing episodes. Especially if we hoped for an endorphin-generating Bible studya feel-good devotional to carry us through our daywe can often find ourselves disillusioned.

As a Bible scholar, Ive devoted my life to reading and understanding the Scriptures. Ive watched the pages of the Bible come alive over and over again. Even so, I still encounter passages that trouble me. But I keep in mind something another Bible scholar and friend of mine, Esau McCaulley, once saidwhich is that we should engage with such difficult passages in the same way Jacob interacted with the angel in Genesis 32.

After a lengthy absence, Jacob was heading home to Canaan. He was nervous about running into his brother, Esau. When he left, things had been tense, and Jacob wasnt sure how Esau would receive him when he returned. The night before their encounter, an angel surprised Jacob, and the two of them wrestled until daybreakat which time the angel asked Jacob to let go of him. Thats when Jacob replied, I will not let you go until you bless me (v. 26).

Jacob knew he was encountering a heavenly being from the divine realm, and he didnt want to miss an opportunity to receive a blessing from the Lord. And at that particular moment, he knew he would need it to have the courage to face his brother the very next day.

What if we treated the Bible like this? What if, whenever we wrestled with a troubling biblical passage, we adopted the same approach as Jacob? Understanding that the Scripture is divinely inspired and God-breathed, what if we said, I will not let go of this until it blesses me?

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Its far easier to throw up our hands and walk away from the text, but if we persist, we may find richer inspiration than we ever expected.

Three Keys to Wrestling with the Old Testament

In my experience, even the most difficult passages (maybe especially those passages) can be a source of blessing when we persist in trying to understand them. The problem is that many people struggle to understand the Bible because they were never really taught how to engage with it. So, with that, Id like to share three keys to go about interpreting these tricky passages:

1. Consider the historical and cultural context.



Like it or not, the Bible was not written to us or about us. Yes, it is Gods word for us, but the events it describes took place far from the time and place most of us call home. Even for those living in Bible lands today, thousands of years stand between us and the Bible.

That means reading the Bible is not only a cross-cultural experience; it also involves time travel. Thats why it helps when we know something about the history of this region. If we take the time to consider the daily lives of ordinary men and womentheir concerns and challenges, their hopes and valuesthen we can enter into their stories more easily.



Some modern readers are concerned that if they focus on history, the Bible will become less devotionally inspiring. Yet, time and again, Ive found the opposite to be true. When I better understand the gritty realities of ancient times, I can see how much we have in common with ancient people. God still meets us in our mess today, just like he met them in theirs.

One way to learn the historical and cultural contexts of the Bible is through resources like the NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible or the Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary series. Both contain rich, full-color images and are loaded with information to help you make sense of what is happening in the world behind the text.

2. Pay attention to the literary design of the passage.



To focus on the scripture as literature does not mean we dismiss its historicityit simply means we recognize that the Bible is an expertly crafted literary text. Scripture presents an inspired interpretation of history in a deliberate format designed to highlight its key themes.

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As you read, take note of how the author describes people and places. Notice whether the narrative unfolds chronologically, and which scenes are placed side-by-side. Resources like videos from the Bible Project, freely available online, can help alert you to how a book is crafted.

In other words, read not just for the facts, but also to appreciate the artistry of the biblical authors. Carried along by the Holy Spirit, these writers are creating a stunning work of art that has stood the test of time.

3. Read with a diverse community.



Some passages may strike us as odd, or even objectionable, because of our cultural context or life experience. When we read with others, we can pool our knowledge, our ideas, and even our questions to help us tackle difficult texts. Over the years, I have learned from other teachers and pastors and even from student questions and observations when Im teaching a class.

In recent years, Ive made a concerted effort to read the insights of the global church. Its a gift to learn alongside men and women from different contexts, because their cultural vantage points allow them to see things that I miss and to explain matters that are unfamiliar to me.

A few resources Im grateful for are Langham Global Library, the searchable database at Every Voice, and the Translation Insights and Perspectives website. These have significantly broadened my perspective by helping me read the Bible with others from around the world.

Why Would God Try to Kill Moses?

One passage that has baffled me is tucked away in Exodus 4. Its not the sort of passage that comes up in sermons or Sunday school lessons, and I doubt youve read a devotional on it. In fact, its such a short story that if your mind wanders a bit while youre reading, you might even miss it. But if youre paying attention, this one is a bit shocking.

To set the stage, God has already met Moses at Mount Sinai in the burning bush and commissioned him to go to Egypt to bring his people out of slavery. Moses takes leave of his wifes Midianite family and begins the journey back to Egypt with his wife and sons. Thats when the unexpected happens:

At a lodging place on the way, the Lord met Moses and was about to kill him. But Zipporah took a flint knife, cut off her sons foreskin and touched Moses feet with it. Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me, she said. So the Lord let him alone. (At that time she said bridegroom of blood, referring to circumcision.) (v. 2426)

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Why did God try to kill Moses while hes in the middle of obeying? How did Zipporah know exactly what to do? Why did this circumcision change Gods mind? Why isnt Moses son already circumcised? Why is this strange story important enough to include in this Book?

These were only some my questions. Based on past experience, I expected to find inspirationif I dug deeply and wrestled with the text like Jacob with the angeland indeed, I did!

Applying the Three Keys to the Zipporah Story

First, I considered the historical and cultural background of the story. Zipporah is the daughter of a Midianite priest. She has grown up around rituals. Circumcision was practiced by the Hebrews as well as by the Egyptiansbut not in the same way or at the same time, and certainly not with the same meaning.

While God instructed the Hebrews to circumcise infants when they were just eight days old (Gen. 17:12), the Egyptians circumcised at pubertyand the rite did not appear to have a religious significance to them. For reasons unknown to us, it appears Moses had neglected to circumcise his own sons, which put his family on the outside of Gods covenant with Abraham.

Second, I learned the phrase bridegroom of blood may have a broader meaning. The Hebrew word hatan (bridegroom in NIV) can refer to any male relative by marriage, not just the groom.

Although the NIV specifies the pronouns, the Hebrew text is more ambiguous. When it says that she touched Moses feet with the foreskin, the Hebrew is unclear as to whose feet it refers: her sons feet, Moses, or the Lords? But since her son was her relative by birth, rather than marriage, she was most likely speaking either to Moses or to his God, Yahweh, with whom she had entered into a relationship by marriage.

Not only that, but Zipporahs statement, Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me, had ritual significance, like the one wedding officiants today use when saying, I now pronounce you husband and wife! Likewise, Zipporah was declaring that her family belonged to Yahweh.

Third, and most importantly, as I spent time in the literary context of this odd passage, I found many connections that helped me make sense of it.

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Before this scene, God had just told Moses to tell Pharaoh, This is what the Lord says: Israel is my firstborn son, and I told you, Let my son go, so he may worship me. But you refused to let him go; so I will kill your firstborn son (Ex. 4:2223).

Moses was born a Hebrew but adopted by the daughter of Pharaoh. We dont know whether she had other children, but if not, Moses may have occupied the role of her firstborn son. As Moses grew into adulthood, he seemed uncertain about his identity. He was not accepted by the Hebrews or by the Egyptiansand when he arrived in Midian, he did not introduce himself. It was only in his encounter with Yahweh at the burning bush that his identity was clarified.

However, if Moses did not circumcise his sons, then he had failed to take the only necessary step to identify himself and his family as Hebrews. Moses could not afford to return to Egypt with an uncertain identityand so he would not be exempt from Gods ultimatum to Pharaoh.

Later, Moses would instruct the Hebrews regarding the Passover ceremony that would protect their firstborn sons when the angel of the Lord struck. Recall that to participate in the Passover, all the males in the family had to be circumcised (Ex. 12:48). So, Moses was about to command others to do what he had not done himself.

So back in the desert, Yahweh confronted Moses to ensure his full identification with the Hebrews. Zipporah, like the midwives and the other women in Moses infancy narrative, stepped in to rescue him from danger (Ex. 1:17; 2:110). As a woman who saved Moses, Zipporah is the bookend to the Moses saga. After this, the narrative then pivots to Yahwehs rescue of Israel.

Learning to Eat Liver

Liver is an acquired taste with certain health benefits. If my friend on my study tour to Egypt had been adequately prepared, he may have been able to appreciate it. The Bible is an acquired taste too. Reading it well requires certain skills, experience, and commitment. My best advice whenever you come to a difficult passage is this: Determine not to let it go until it blesses you.

Carmen Joy Imes is associate professor of Old Testament at Biola University and author of Bearing Gods Name and Being Gods Image. She releases weekly Torah Tuesday videos on YouTube.

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Home News Angel Moms share emotional testimonies of daughters' deaths, blast Biden policies

Two "Angel Moms" who lost their daughters to the crime and drugs pouring through the U.S. southern border offered emotional congressional testimony Thursday, laying partial blame for their grief on Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and the Biden administration's policies.

Tammy Nobles, whose 20-year-old daughter, Kayla, was murdered in 2022 by a suspected MS-13 gang member released by Border Patrol, and Josephine Dunn, whose daughter, Ashley, died of a fentanyl overdose in 2021 at 26, told their stories during a hearing before the House Homeland Security Committee.

Committee Chairman Rep. Mark Green, R-Tenn., noted in a Wednesday letter to Mayorkas that the secretary declined an in-person invitation to attend the hearing titled "Voices for the Victims: The Heartbreaking Reality of the Mayorkas Border Crisis."

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When Mayorkas requested a different date for the hearing, Republicans on the committee asked him instead to submit written testimony by Jan. 28, according to The New York Times.

The hearing featured as the final in a series of impeachment hearings against Mayorkas. House Republicans could bring charges against him as early as this week for failing to enforce the country's immigration laws.

In her opening statement about how the open border has devastated her family, Nobles recalled how her daughter Kayla "was kind, caring, thoughtful and funny."

"She loved life and God, and she showed the world that being yourself was OK; you didn't have to follow everyone else," Nobles said.

The mother received "the worst news that a parent doesn't want to hear" on July 27, 2022, when she learned that Kayla had been "murdered in her own room and left on the floor like trash."

Kayla was murdered by a suspected MS-13 gang member who Border Patrol released despite tattoos on his body showing his gang affiliation, Nobles said.

"Had DHS employees performed a visual inspection of his body, they would have seen MS-13 gang-related tattoos disqualifying him from entering the U.S.," she explained.

"DHS employees failed to make a simple phone call to the El Salvadorian government to verify if the assailant was on an MS-13 gang affiliation list. Had they done so, El Salvador government officials would have confirmed that the assailant was a known MS-13 gang member with a prior criminal history."

The grieving mother also argues the Department of Health and Human Services also dropped the ball and "sealed her daughter's fate" by "violating protocol" and releasing the assailant, identified at the time as a minor, into the U.S. without placing him with a family member or a sponsor.

Nobles concluded by urging those in the room to "take a moment and think about how Kayla felt that day; how scared she must have been that day knowing that she was dying; if she was going to see her mommy again, her baby sister, her brother, or her cat Oreo."

"Kayla fought for her life that day with all that she had, and in the end, she lost to an individual that wasn't even supposed to be allowed in the country," Nobles added. "For me, this is not a political issue. This is a safety issue for everyone living in the United States."

Dunn, who testified next, was driven to tears multiple times throughout her opening statement, during which she remembered her late daughter Ashley and described fentanyl as a "weapon of mass destruction [that] has killed over 100,000 Americans on our soil for two years in a row."

Her home state of Arizona has become "the fentanyl superhighway into the United States," Dunn said. Her daughter died after accidentally ingesting fentanyl, believing it was oxycodone.

In March of 2021, 26-year-old Ashley Dunn died from fentanyl poisoning.



Her son, Carson, turned five the day after his mother's passing.



Ashely's mom, Josephine, testified before Congress: "Arizona is the Fentanyl superhighway into the United States."



She holds @AliMayorkas & pic.twitter.com/TulkETLSHx  Kari Lake (@KariLake) January 18, 2024

Dunn said that as she and her husband sat for 86 hours in the ICU, they "were begging God, we were pleading [with] God, bargaining that she would just breathe." Since Ashley's death 32 months ago, Dunn said her daughter has been gone for three of her son's birthdays and missed out on seeing one graduate kindergarten.

"She celebrated the last of her birthdays when she was 26," she added. "She will forever be 26."

Dunn criticized Mayorkas for not appearing during the hearing, and both women later said they partially blamed Mayorkas and his policies for the death of their daughters.

Dunn told Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, that the hearing had fallen on what would have been her daughter's 29th birthday.

"I would have much rather been home with my poor husband grieving her," she said. "I didn't need to be here today. So whatever [Mayorkas] is doing, I hope it's more important than that."
Home News 'No regrets': Christians react after DeSantis drops out, endorses Trump

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' Sunday announcement that he will drop out of contention for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination and endorse former president and current frontrunner Donald Trump has drawn the reactions of conservative Christian and political leaders.

DeSantis' departure comes as his campaign spent much time in Iowa, resulting in a second-place finish in the Iowa caucuses last week, where he secured 21% support to Trump's 51% and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley's 19%.

"Now, following our second-place finish in Iowa, we've prayed and deliberated on the way forward," DeSantis said in a video announcement.

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"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. We don't have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign."

The Florida governor said it is "clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," adding that "Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden."

"He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, or repackage form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents," DeSantis said.

Here are four reactions from prominent conservative Christians in response to the DeSantis announcement.
Home News Estonia expels head of Russian church branch, calls him threat to national security

Estonia will not renew the residence permit of Metropolitan Eugene, head of the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, citing national security concerns.

The decision, announced by the Estonian Interior Ministry, requires Eugene, also known as Valeri Reshetnikov, to leave the country by Feb. 6.

Indrek Aru, head of the border guard bureau of the North Prefecture of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board, or PPA, stated in a press release that Reshetnikov's public actions and statements supporting the aggressor, presumably Russia, led to this decision, Estonian public broadcaster ERR reported.

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Despite warnings, Reshetnikov continued activities deemed incompatible with Estonia's values and legal environment, prompting the PPA to view his actions as a security threat.

The Ministry of the Interior repeatedly advised Reshetnikov to cease justifying the Kremlin regime and Russia's military actions. However, his unaltered conduct, especially in light of Estonia's declaration of Russia as a terrorist state following the full-scale war in Ukraine, has raised concerns.

Reshetnikov has been in Estonia for four years, with his last residence permit renewal occurring two years ago, just before Russia's full-scale aggression in Ukraine. The decision not to renew his permit is based solely on his behavior and does not impact the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate or its followers, Aru said.

The Estonian Internal Security Service contributed to this decision, noting that Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, head of the Russian Orthodox Church, has consistently supported the Kremlin's aggression against Ukraine. The ISS views the actions of the Moscow patriarch and Metropolitan Eugene as aiding Russia's security policy in Estonia.

This move by Estonia is part of a broader trend in Eastern Europe, where countries are scrutinizing religious groups with ties to Russia amid its nearly two-year war in Ukraine.

In Ukraine, lawmakers have advanced legislation targeting religious organizations linked to Russia, particularly the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which is distinct from the Orthodox Church of Ukraine. The UOC, having severed ties with the Russian Orthodox Church last year, faces potential bans under new laws aimed at protecting national security.

The Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada's legislation prohibits activities of religious groups affiliated with external influence centers in states engaged in armed aggression against Ukraine. This bill, supported by 267 lawmakers on the first vote in October, awaits further voting and presidential approval.

Iryna Herashchenko, a lawmaker from the European Solidarity Party, described the vote as historic, emphasizing the need to protect national security from entities perceived as extensions of foreign security services, specifically the Russian FSB.

The Ukrainian government has accused the UOC of promoting pro-Russian propaganda, leading to raids and evictions of UOC properties and the alleged discovery of materials supporting the Russian invasion.

Patriarch Kirill of the Russian Orthodox Church condemned the Ukrainian legislation, arguing that it aligns the Ukrainian state with oppressive regimes of the past. He criticized the bill's targeting of the UOC, which he views as an attack on a significant religious community in Ukraine.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Ukrainian government has intensified its stance against the UOC. The church officially severed ties with the Moscow Patriarchate in May 2022, denouncing the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has supported proposals to ban the UOC, framing it as a measure to strengthen Ukraine's internal security and resistance against Russian influence.
Home News 'Sleeping giant': Evangelical missionary movement in Latin America continues to grow

When Carlos and Ana married, they had a dream: to serve God as missionaries somewhere in the world. Both had grown up in Evangelical churches in Colombia and had felt God's call to share the Gospel with other cultures. However, they didn't know how to make it happen.

"We had no resources, no support, no experience," recalls Carlos. "We thought missions were only for foreigners coming to our country."

But one day, Carlos and Ana heard about a Latin American mission agency that offered them training, orientation and sending them to different fields. They enrolled in a missionary preparation course, and after a year of study and practice, they were assigned to a project in Central Asia, among a Muslim ethnic group that had never heard the name of Jesus.

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There, along with other Latin American missionaries, they have been serving for more than five years, learning the language, adapting to the culture and sharing the love of Christ with their neighbors.

"God has been faithful, and we have seen fruit amid difficulties," says Ana. "We are happy to be part of what God is doing in the nations."

The story of Carlos and Ana is just one example of the growing Evangelical missionary movement that has been taking shape in Latin America for several years now.

According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity, until recently there were more than 10,000 Latin American Evangelical missionaries serving in more than 100 countries, especially in places where access to the Gospel is not easy, such as the Islamic, Buddhist and Hindu worlds. This figure represents an increase of more than 300% since 2000, and places Latin America as the third region in the world with the most Evangelical missionaries, after North America and Europe.

In 2007, a report by Lausanne World Pulse stated that almost 25 years before, Latin America formally joined the world missionary force. It shows how this has been a trend that started earlier and is continuing today.



Now, 400 mission agencies are sending out 9,000 Latin Americans. It is estimated that another 3,000 have gone out without a sending structure.

The truth is that the Evangelical missionary movement in Latin America has experienced significant growth in recent decades.

According to the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism website, "The Latin American church is like the sleeping giant that is awakening to plant gospel-centered churches throughout Latin America, to reach pockets of the unreached within its borders, and to send missionaries to the most difficult places in the world."

While Latin American missionaries face both challenges and opportunities, and the U.S. Church continues to play a role in supporting and collaborating with this movement, there are specific factors that explain this very interesting development.

A Biblical view of missions

One of the factors that has driven the missionary awakening in Latin America is the rediscovery of the biblical vision of missions, which understands that God's purpose is to glorify His name among all nations and that the Church is the instrument He has chosen to fulfill His plan. This vision has been transmitted and reinforced by various events, publications and resources that have emphasized the missionary mandate of Christ and the urgency of reaching unreached peoples.

One of these events is the Latin American Congress on Evangelization (CLADE), which has been held every 10 years since 1969 and has brought together thousands of Evangelical leaders from all over the region to reflect on the mission of the Church in the Latin American context.

The last CLADE, held in Costa Rica, had as its theme "Integral discipleship in the power of the Spirit: Towards a missionary, prophetic and hopeful Church." It was affirmed that "God's mission is integral and embraces all dimensions of human life and creation," and a call was made to "assume the commitment to be a missionary church, which announces and lives the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit, during the challenges and opportunities of our time."

Another event that has marked the missionary vision of Latin America is the Ibero-American Missionary Congress (COMIBAM), which began in 1987 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and has been considered the first missionary congress organized by and for Latin Americans.

The goal of COMIBAM has been to promote cooperation and missionary mobilization among Spanish-and-Portuguese-speaking Evangelical churches, agencies and organizations. The last COMIBAM, held in Bogota, Colombia, had as its theme "The glory of Christ in the nations" and brought together more than 800 participants from 40 countries, who shared their experiences, challenges and strategies for the progress of the kingdom of God in the world.

In addition to these events, it is worth mentioning the work of various Latin American missionary agencies and organizations that have emerged in recent decades to facilitate the sending and support of missionaries from the region. Some of these agencies are AMA (Argentine Missionary Agency), AMAL (Latin America Missionary Agency), AME (Evangelical Missions Agency), AMEC (Central American Evangelical Missionary Agency), AMEE (Ecuadorian Evangelical Missionary Association), AMEM (World Evangelization Mission), among others.

These agencies offer training, orientation, pastoral care, financial management and support networks to missionaries and sending churches.

It is also worth highlighting the contribution of various publications and resources that have helped to spread the missionary vision among Evangelical Christians in Latin America.

These include the magazine VAMOS (Lets Go), which since 1984 has published articles, testimonies and news about missions; the book "World Mission," written by missionary and theologian Jonathan Lewis, which offers a biblical, historical and practical introduction to missions; the website Movilicemos.org, which offers free resources for missionary mobilization and education; and the radio program "Ventana al Mundo" (Window to the World), which broadcasts on more than 500 radio stations in 23 countries, informing and motivating listeners about missionary needs and opportunities.

A diverse and flexible cultural identity

Another factor that has favored the missionary awakening of Latin America is the diverse and flexible cultural identity that characterizes Latin Americans, which allows them to adapt and relate to other cultures more easily and naturally. Latin Americans are the result of a mixture of races, languages, beliefs and traditions, which have shaped a rich and varied culture, which in turn has been influenced by the processes of globalization and migration. This cultural diversity has given Latin Americans a greater sensitivity and openness towards others, as well as a greater capacity for learning and intercultural communication.

These qualities are highly valued and leveraged in the mission field, where Latin American missionaries have proven to be effective and creative in the development of their ministry. Some examples of this are the use of music, art and humor as means of evangelism and discipleship; the formation of multicultural and multidisciplinary missionary teams; the integration of the family and the community in missionary service; the attention to the social and humanitarian needs of the people; and putting the Gospel message in the context of the worldviews and values of the host cultures.

A testimony of the cultural advantage of Latin American missionaries is provided by the Brazilian pastor and missionary Ronaldo Lidorio, who has served for more than 20 years among the indigenous peoples of Brazil and Africa. He comments that "Latin Americans have a very great facility of adaptation because we are a people of mixed race, who have received influences from many cultures. We have a very good ability to relate to each other because we are a happy, festive people, who like music, dance and sports. We have a very high social sensitivity because we are a people who have suffered a lot, who have gone through many difficulties, and who know what poverty is".

The Evangelical missionary movement in Latin America is booming, with a growing number of believers  like Carlos and Ana  feeling the call to take the Gospel beyond their borders. As this "sleeping giant" continues to awaken, it is poised to bring about an even greater impact on the nations of the world in the years to come.

This article was originally published by Christian Daily International.
Home News Police confront pro-life activist for praying silently outside abortion clinic after dropping charges

A law enforcement official confronted a pro-life activist for silently praying outside an abortion clinic in the United Kingdom even after local police apologized to her for previous arrests near the facility.

Video footage published by the law firm ADF UK Monday shows an encounter between British pro-life activist Isabel Vaughan-Spruce and West Midlands Police outside an abortion clinic in Birmingham.

The abortion facility is protected by a Public Space Protection Order that prohibits people from "protesting, namely engaging in any act of approval or disapproval, with respect to issues related to abortion services, by any means" within a certain distance of an abortion clinic.

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The area covered by the Public Space Protection Order is referred to by supporters of the law as an "exclusion zone" or a "safe access zone," while critics refer to it as a "censorship zone." While the Public Space Protection Order was implemented at the local level, the national government is considering non-statutory guidance declaring that "prayer within a Safe Access Zone should not automatically be seen as unlawful" and mandating that "police should not target those they believe to have pro-life views."

In the latest video footage released by ADF UK, taken on an unspecified date "earlier this winter," the officer asked Vaughan-Spruce if she was "protesting," to which she responded "no." When asked if she was "here to pray for the lives of unborn children," Vaughan-Spruce replied, "As I've mentioned to one of your colleagues before, I think that's a little bit of a leading question."

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Earlier this Winter officers continued to police the mind of Isabel Vaughan-Spruce - despite the court having ruled in favour of free thought. ?????????????Do YOU think citizens should he punished for their thoughts??????? IMPORTANT: the consultation on pic.twitter.com/RLuTyGeUIg  ADF UK (@ADF_UK) January 19, 2024

"No, I'm not actually today," she continued. The officer followed up by inquiring if her actions could "be carried out elsewhere," which prompted Vaughan-Spruce to assert that she was "not doing any actions" but rather "simply thinking silently in my head."

After the officer sought clarification as to why she had "chosen this location to stand," Vaughn-Spruce noted that it was an "abortion centre," adding, "I'm praying for those who have been hurt by abortion." The law enforcement official informed her that there was a "Public Space Protection Order" in place covering the area surrounding the clinic.

Vaughan-Spruce indicated that she was aware of the law and told the officer that she had "been arrested twice" and "gone to court and been acquitted" for engaging in silent prayer at the facility. She also explained, "I've actually received an email from the police telling me I'm allowed to be in this area."

Nonetheless, the law enforcement official told Vaughan-Spruce she was "breaching the Public Space Protection Order in place." Vaughan-Spruce disagreed with the officer, who then asked her if she would move "outside of the exclusion zone."

"I don't see any reason why I would need to do that for the reasons I just explained to you," she said. When the officer asked why she was "not willing to move outside the exclusion zone," Vaughan-Spruce reiterated that she had "been to court over this."

The video concluded with the officer issuing Vaughan-Spruce a "fixed penalty notice" because he and his colleague believed she was there to "protest." Vaughan-Spruce pushed back: "I'm not protesting. I'm simply silently praying."

"I've been arrested twice and fully vindicated by a court verdict that upheld my freedom of thought, and yet even still, officers continue to interrogate me for the simple act of thinking prayerful thoughts on a public street," Vaughan-Spruce said in a statement.

"This isn't 1984, but 2023. No matter one's beliefs on abortion, nobody should be punished merely for the prayers they hold inside their head."

Vaughan-Spruce praised the draft guidance released by the Home Office, stating the idea that "nobody should be criminalized based on their thoughts alone" is "obvious common-sense protection for basic rights that must be upheld."

"Isabel is one of several individuals who have faced arrest, fines, and/or interrogations as to their thoughts inside a 'buffer zone' which spans across several public streets," stated ADF UK Legal Counsel Jeremiah Igunnubole. "The UK must abide by its human rights obligations, under which nobody should be criminalised for their thoughts. It's vital that we maintain this most basic standard of a liberal democracy. Once we allow for thought to be policed on one issue area, the precedent has been set for these abuses to proliferate."

ADF UK created a series of templated answers for members of the British public to include in comments to the government about the proposed guidance. Those hoping to leave feedback have until the end of the day on Monday to do so.

In September, the West Midlands Police dropped charges against Vaughan-Spruce and apologized for arresting her twice for praying.

Last February, the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the initial charges against Vaughn-Spruce but warned at the time that the charges "may well start again" if they receive new evidence related to the case. The activists pursued a clear verdict in court before the police dropped the matter entirely.
Home News Senator questions feds on push for banks to monitor MAGA transactions, Bible purchases

A top Senate Republican wants answers from the U.S. Department of Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network regarding reports officials instructed banks to monitor Americans' online transactions described with the terms "MAGA" and "Trump" as well as purchases of religious texts.

In a Friday letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and FinCEN Director Andrea Gacki, U.S. Senator Tim Scott, R-S.C., the ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, expressed concerns over potential privacy violations and the targeting of U.S. citizens.

Scott's letter came days after U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, chair of the House Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, claimed the subcommittee obtained documents showing that FinCEN "distributed materials to financial institutions that, among other things, outline the 'typologies' of various persons of interest" following the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.

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Jordan alleged in a letter to a former FinCEN official seeking a transcribed interview for the congressional record that the agency also "provided financial institutions with suggested search terms and Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) for identifying transactions on behalf of federal law enforcement." Those materials allegedly included a "document recommending the use of generic terms like 'TRUMP' and 'MAGA' to 'search Zelle payment messages' as well as a 'prior FinCEN analysis' of 'Lone Actor/Homegrown Violent Extremism Indicators,'" the letter reads.

Jordan wrote that FinCEN "warned financial institutions of 'extremism' indicators that include 'transportation charges, 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.'"

Scott emphasized that such actions, if true, would constitute a severe breach of privacy and improper targeting without due process.

"These allegations are particularly concerning given past efforts to weaponize the financial system and payment activity against politically disfavored, lawful activity," Scott wrote.

"Under the Obama administration's 'Operation Choke Point' initiative, the Department of Justice (DOJ) coordinated with federal financial regulators to intimidate financial institutions into denying services to legitimate businesses that the administration was ideologically opposed to, including gun retailers. Unfortunately, the weaponization and misuse of MCC codes is not a new issue either."

The allegations suggest that FinCEN recommended banks search Zelle payment messages for specific terms and transactions indicating legal firearm purchases. Scott highlighted the constitutional implications of targeting individuals based on political views and raised concerns about the independence of federal financial regulators.

"Federal government efforts to target individuals and entities based on their political views is a blatant and egregious violation of our Constitution," Scott wrote. "Additionally, reported actions like these disrupt confidence in federal law enforcement and raise significant questions regarding the independence of federal financial regulators."

The documents uncovered by the House Judiciary Committee and Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government also urge financial institutions to flag transactions at stores like "Cabela's," "Dick's Sporting Goods" and "Bass Pro Shops."

The documents also revealed FinCEN's warning to financial institutions about an "extremism indicator" being the purchase of books, including religious texts, and subscriptions to media with extremist views.

"We now know the federal government flagged terms like 'MAGA' and 'TRUMP' to financial institutions if Americans completed transactions using those terms," Jordan wrote in a tweet. "What was also flagged? If you bought a religious text, like a BIBLE, or shopped at Bass Pro Shop."

Scott demanded information from the Treasury and FinCEN on their role in soliciting financial data from private companies post-Jan. 6 and whether other executive branch agencies directed these activities. He also sought clarification on FinCEN's rationale for associating the purchase of religious texts with extremism.

Sources told Fox News the search terms, including "MAGA" and "Trump," were initially generated by a bank to identify suspicious transactions. FinCEN reportedly shared these terms with other banks for compliance with suspicious activity reports. Additional terms shared included "White Power," "Antifa," and others, with the distribution beginning in the final weeks of the Trump administration.

The revelations coincide with President Joe Biden's first ad for his 2024 reelection campaign, which labels Trump supporters as "extremists." The ad, released days before the third anniversary of the Jan. 6 riot, emphasizes the "preservation of American democracy" as a central issue.

Scott has requested the Treasury Department to provide the requested information by Feb. 2, as the investigation into these allegations continues.
Home News Chinese pastor sentenced to 14 years for peddling superstition

A court in China sentenced a prominent Protestant pastor to 14 years in prison. The pastors wife and four church members have also been sentenced to prison terms ranging from three to 10 years. They were all found guilty of purportedly using superstition to undermine the law.

The Ganjingzi District Peoples Court in the city of Dalian sentenced Pastor Kan Xiaoyong, who's in his 60s, to 14 years in prison, Radio Free Asia reported, adding that his wife, Wang Fengying, received a four-year sentence and the four church members  Chu Xinyu, Zhao Qianjiao, Zhang Songai and Liang Dongzhi  received prison terms ranging from three to 10 years.

Initial expectations for Kans sentence exceeded 20 years, RFA said. However, following strong resistance from his lawyers, authorities reduced his sentence. Similarly, Wangs anticipated sentence was between 15- to 18-years but was ultimately set at four years.

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Despite these reductions, a source emphasized that none of the accused are guilty.

Kan and Wang moved to Dalian from Wuhan in 2018 and established the Home Discipleship Network, an online preaching platform. Their arrest by Dalian police, along with the four other church members, occurred in October 2021. The source was quoted as saying that Kans significant online following and the unofficial status of his church posed a threat to the Chinese Communist Party, leading to the crackdown.

Both Kan and Wang said Dalian police tortured them during their interrogations. This allegation was presented in court and not refuted by authorities. Xu Yonghai, an elder of a Beijing house church, commented on the increasing fragmentation of Protestant churches in China due to government pressure.

Bitter Winter, a magazine covering religious liberty and human rights in China, reported that these heavy sentences are part of a broader effort by President Xi Jinpings government to compel all Protestant churches to join the state-controlled Three-Self Church.

The charges against Kan and his co-defendants included illegal business practices and the use of xie jiao to undermine law implementation, the magazine said. Xie jiao, translated as heterodox teaching, is a term often used by Chinese authorities to label groups they consider cults. However, Kans organization, a typical Protestant house church, does not fit this profile.

Kan, originally from Wuhan, was a successful businessman and hails from a family with connections to the CCP. He and his wife, a former schoolteacher and ballet dancer, shifted to full-time ministry in 2018. Their ministry gained national recognition within the house church circuit. The couples 2021 arrest was followed by several days of alleged torture, with evidence presented at trial but dismissed by the judge. The defense team plans to appeal the severe verdict.

Open Doors, an organization that tracks global Christian persecution, provides context to the broader situation in China.

The CCP aims to align churches with its ideology, often targeting unregistered house churches. New regulations and digital surveillance have intensified the crackdown on Christian activities.

The most severe persecution occurs in regions where Buddhism or Islam are dominant, with converts to Christianity facing significant threats. However, the pressure is spreading across China, with digital persecution increasingly impacting Christians, especially those in house churches.
Home News IHOPKC bans prophet Bob Hartley from 24/7 prayer room after allegations of sex abuse, predation

The embattled International House of Prayer Kansas City has banned self-styled "prophet" Bob Hartley of Hartley Hope Ministries from its 24/7 prayer room after he was publicly accused of sexual assault and a pattern of predatory behavior impacting multiple alleged women victims.

"Based on information we have been presented and verified, Mr. Hartley has been informed he will no longer be permitted access to the IHOPKC Prayer Room. We can also confirm he is not on staff at IHOPKC, nor is he a congregant of Forerunner Church," Eric Volz, IHOPKC's new spokesperson, who serves as managing director of the international crisis agency David House, said in a statement on X last Monday, days after the allegations about Hartley began to emerge.

Michelle Seidler, a former prophetic teacher and team Leader at IHOPKC, alleged on Facebook Wednesday that Hartley tried to seduce one woman with fake prophecy. Also an alleged victim of Hartley's, Seidler began publishing the first-hand accounts she'd received from multiple women against Hartley days earlier with a trove of evidence, including video, text messages and first-hand accounts from multiple women.

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Hartley is said to be a friend of IHOPKC founder Mike Bickle, whom the ministry recently cut ties with and is currently under investigation for abuse allegations. Hartley acknowledged the claims against him in an at times incoherent video that has since been removed from Facebook.

The self-styled prophet and divorced patriarch of Hope Ministries admitted, "I did make some mistakes" during a "mid-life crisis" and engaged in some relationships he has since repented of but maintains they "were consensual."

"I never would push myself on anyone," he said. "These are women who are very strong, and they won't do anything unless it's in their heart to do it."

"When something is brought into a criminal place, it's very clear what defamation is," he later added. "If people want to be deposed, I've never said the other side of the story on different situations, and I won't. But it's different than what you think."

The Christian Post reached out to Hartley for comment. A response was not received by press time.

In one video shared by Seidler on Facebook last Monday, Hartley appears to be seeking intimacy with a woman while flaunting his wealth. She said the woman who sent her the video told her she had only met Hartley once at his home "with a group of other people he was prophesying over."

"She does NOT know Him. She never engaged with him in any other way," the former IHOPKC team leader said.

Hartley tells the woman in the recording that he is not a "sex fiend" but a "love fiend" and he would be willing to "bless" her financially for her company.

"I'm not a sex fiend. You know, I kind of plug in. But I am a love fiend where I love and that intimacy that comes from the heart. That's what I'm into. Just want to turn this around. I don't know, but I need to hear from you, and I need to hear. I'll meet at this place  and I'll send you the money for  a little bit a travel you're doing," Hartley says in the video.

"I just never had to pay for somebody to respond to me. And I just don't mind blessing somebody who has financial need, and I just feel like I'm not paying for ... I'm paying for intimacy. I just want to bless you. So let me know how you feel," he continues.

"Let me know because this is what it's going to cost, and I just, I pay for a lot of people in a lot of situations, and so, I just got to know. I'd also want to know that you want to partner with me. You want to bless the world we're blessing, which is an awesome world, you know. I can explain it to you later, but I don't spend much on me. I got a beautiful home and $13 million properties that are B&B's that are unbelievable," he adds.

In another post, Seidler shared a statement from a woman who claimed she was preyed upon and then raped by Hartley. It was noted that the woman is also consulting with an attorney.

Seidler said she was "personally involved" with this situation about two years ago because the alleged victim reached out to her after it happened.

The unidentified woman claimed she initially idolized Hartley when she met him more than 15 years ago, describing him as a "spiritual champion" and "awesome Father in the faith" whom she "greatly admired."

She said when Hartley first reached out to her with an offer to connect and support her dreams of working for God, she was "elated" and saw "zero red flags" because of his work with churches nationwide.

"At the beginning it felt innocent in his flirtation. Little did I know the wolf in sheep's clothing I was dealing with," she wrote.

"Little by little he would begin being more and more touchy feely with me. This made me uncomfortable. I would get away most of the time until one night he came over to my house when I said I was spending consecrated time with God. He brought his iPad over and got undressed and laid in my spare bedroom. I was very frustrated and grossed out by this. That evening he forced himself on me and raped me," the woman claimed.

"It was horrifically devastating. After this, he threatened me in many ways including suing me. I felt paralyzed as to what to do. This was an extremely painful moment of being violated on so many levels."

In another alleged encounter with Hartley, Seidler shared the story of a woman who claims he tried to abuse her by using fake prophecy.

"A couple years ago I was invited by a friend to attend one of Bob Hartley's in-home church gatherings. I really enjoyed the fellowship with other believers and Bob's teachings on the 'Yellow House,' so I kept going to these gatherings. As I got to know Bob, I truly admired his business-as-missions mindset and 'love everybody' attitude. He seemed genuine and we began conversations about AirBnB management. He expressed interest in partnering and invited me to attend several of his 'Deeper Waters' business meetings," the woman said.

"Late one Saturday night I received a strange text from Bob asking me to come over to his house and hold him. He said it would be nothing sexual, but he just needed to be held and someone to sleep next to him. I was confused thinking he texted the wrong person and said I didn't think that was appropriate. He pushed at first saying he would come to wherever I was, but I was adamant that it was not happening. He apologized saying he had mixed alcohol with his medication and was not thinking clearly," she continued.

The woman recalled brushing off the encounter until a few weeks later, Hartley told her at one of his church gatherings that he had a "prophetic word" for her that he wanted to share at a later time.

Hartley later hosted a barbecue at his home and allegedly asked the woman to stay behind at the end so he could give her the prophetic word.

"I agreed as I was excited to hear what it was. After everyone left Bob said he needed to go upstairs but would be back down soon. He had left his iPad on the couch and a text came through from a number called 'Grasshopper Line' with my name in the message. This caught my attention so I looked at the message and under my name were the names of close people in my life and events that could be easily found on the internet," the woman recalled.

"I got the feeling this was related to my 'prophetic word' and Bob had quickly looked up personal information about me and texted it to his iPad. Bob then came downstairs in his underwear and sat next to me on the couch and started to 'prophesy' what was in that message. I was completely in shock and immediately said I needed to leave. I was disgusted and disturbed by that experience and unsure what to do about it. No minister should ever use prophecy as a way to lure or try and seduce someone."

Seidler explained in one Facebook post last Monday that, "For the last 7 years there have been numerous attempts made for Bob to be made accountable ( Matthew 18 & more) and to stop his behavior of preying on women."

"It started with me in 2016, and at that time several leaders knew of Bob's behavior. At that time they banned him from ministering at their churches, but nothing was done to stop him from doing what he was doing. No one wanted to deal with Bob, that includes Mike Bickle," she said.

According to The Roys Report, Bickle and Hartley have a friendship that stems back to the 1980s when they were pastors at the former Kansas City Fellowship. Michael Sullivant, who also served as a pastor at Kansas City Fellowship, told the news outlet that Hartley purchased IHOPKC's original buildings to "help IHOP get started getting space to pray."

Though Bickle also told TRR that he hasn't had much contact with Hartley in the last 15 years, Hartley's son, Jedidiah Hartley, said he has reason to believe the two were recently in contact.

"When this [scandal] first went down with Mike, my dad was telling me he was talking with Mike," Jedidiah told TRR. "I was under the distinct impression that he was having conversations with him regularly."

About three weeks ago, Volz announced that IHOPKC permanently parted ways with Bickle even as he remains under investigation for "serious allegations including sexual immorality."

Bickle confessed to sinful misconduct he committed over 20 years ago after a woman, identified as Jane Doe by TRR, alleged that for approximately three years, from 1996 to 1999, Bickle paid for her apartment, gave her a key to his office and engaged in every sexual act with her except copulation. She said the IHOPKC founder wooed her with Scripture when she was just 19 and he was 42, then made her a kept woman for several years as he established his now popular ministry.

IHOPKC founding member Dwayne Roberts, former IHOPKC Executive Leadership Team member Brian Kim and former Forerunner Church Pastor Wes Martin revealed in a joint October statement that they were the ones who first confronted IHOPKC leaders about the allegations against Bickle spanning "several decades."

They alleged that before meeting with IHOPKC's leadership team, they attempted to discuss the allegations directly with Bickle "in the spirit of Matthew 18:15-17" but were rebuffed. They claimed that Bickle also attempted to intimidate, isolate, manipulate and discredit his alleged victims.

In its "Report on Initial Findings," IHOPKC's executive leadership team said they treated the allegations against Bickle as credible and asked him to step away from public ministry when they were first confronted with the allegations on Oct. 24.

The IHOPKC leaders said they identified five of some eight women who the complaint group alleges are Bickle's victims and found the evidence thin. Three of the alleged victims called the allegations "lies.'" One of the alleged victims refused to communicate with the attorneys for the ministry. Only Jane Doe was found credible.
Home News Mexican politician convicted of misgendering lawmaker appeals to international body

Mexican civil society leader and former congressman Rodrigo Ivan Cortes has appealed to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights following his conviction for "gender-based political violence" over social media posts referring to a trans-identifying lawmaker as a "man who self-ascribes as a woman."

The appeal was filed by the legal nonprofit ADF International last Wednesday. Cortes was convicted in June of referring to trans-identifying Mexican member of Congress Salma Luevano as a "man who self-ascribes as a woman" on platforms like X and Facebook.

"As evidenced by Rodrigo Ivan Cortes' conviction for peaceful expression, and dozens of cases like his, free speech is greatly threatened in Mexico at this time. It is our plea that the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights will admit this case and hold Mexico to its duty to respect the fundamental right to free speech and expression," stated ADF International attorney Kristina Hjelkrem said in a statement.

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The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights is an autonomous organ of the Organization of American States. The complaint against Cortes centers on nine social media posts, alleging a violation of Luevano's right to be acknowledged as a woman and a denial of identity.

Cortes, charged solely because Luevano is a sitting member of Congress, faced a failed appeal in Mexico's Electoral Superior Chamber, leading to the international appeal.

The conviction resulted in a fine equivalent to $1,123 and a requirement for Cortes to publish a court-written apology as well as the ruling on his social media account daily for 30 days. Cortes must also enroll in a "gender-based political violence" course and enter into the National Registry of Persons Sanctioned in Political Matters against Women.

"Disagreement is not discrimination, and peaceful dissent is not violence," Hjelkrem said. "Cortes spoke out, peacefully, in support of self-evident truth, and for that, he has been convicted as a violent offender and subjected to onerous punishments. The Mexican government's continued censorship of its citizens violates their international human rights obligations to uphold freedom of speech."

Upon the filing, Cortes expressed a commitment to defending freedom of speech in Mexico and his anticipation of a decisive ruling from the IACHR.

"Peacefully expressing the truth of biological reality can never be a crime, and the government of Mexico must not be allowed to punish individuals for sharing their convictions," he said. "I am hopeful for the day that all Mexicans can freely speak without fear of being silenced."

The case raises concerns about due process and judicial impartiality, ADF International, which specializes in religious freedom cases, stresses.

Cortes, head of the advocacy group Frente Nacional por la Familia, was initially convicted by a lower court for his social media posts. The impartiality of the higher court's ruling, expected in June 2023 but delayed, came into question following a publicized closed-door meeting between Judge Felipe Barrera and Luevano.

Evidence of inappropriate meetings and communications between two of the five judges and Luevano further complicated the case, leading to allegations of a breach of Cortes' right to a fair trial.

In September 2022, the FNF expressed concerns over a bill presented by Luevano, which they view as violating freedom of speech and religious freedom. The bill, ADF International claims, would penalize Christian teachings on sexuality as "hate speech."

Luevano, along with trans-identifying representative Maria Clemente, has been involved in several high-profile incidents in Mexico's Congress, including physical altercations and the sharing of explicit content on digital platforms.

Cortes' situation parallels that of Mexican Congressman Gabriel Quadri, who faced similar charges for Twitter posts following a complaint by Luevano. Quadri is also seeking justice at the IACHR.
Home News Orthodox advocacy group, archbishop call for sanctions against Russian Orthodox clerics

The Orthodox Public Affairs Committee and a Ukrainian archbishop are calling for sanctions to be placed on the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church, alleging that they are complicit in the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

OPAC, which exists to provide public advocacy for the global Orthodox Christian Church, and to promote, support, defend and champion Christian communities worldwide in the face of persecution, exclusion, and prejudice, released a statement Monday condemning the response of the Russian Orthodox leadership to the invasion.

The statement comes nearly a month into the invasion, which has caused a massive humanitarian crisis in Eastern Europe as hundreds of civilians have been killed and more than 10 million have been displaced from their homes.

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Patriarch Kirill, his possible successor, Metropolitan Tikhon of Pskov, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokomansk, who heads the Public Relations wing of the Moscow Patriarchate; the Department of External Church Relations (DECR), and the Rev. Nikolai Balashov, a priest of the DECR and long-time accomplice to Kirill, are all complicit in not only supporting the invasion of Ukraine, but also in perpetuating the lies of the government against their own people, the OPAC statement reads.

The group, founded in 2020 and led by a former Trump White House official, contends that the Russian Orthodox leaders have abandoned the Orthodox People of Ukraine, who make up 1/3 of their flock, and are as blameworthy for the deaths of innocent children and civilians as the soldiers acting on orders from the Kremlin.

The committee said, the idea that this invasion was for the benefit of the Ukrainian people would be laughable, if it were not matched by such horrific war crimes.

As OPAC, we cannot stand by and listen to the lies coming out of these so-called shepherds of the Church of Russia, who are acting more like wolves in sheeps clothing, OPAC asserted.

Like all the other oligarchs and government officials in Russia, these Clerics must be sanctioned now and be held accountable for their betrayal of the Orthodox Faith, and their complicity in this unjust and bloodcurdling war.

OPACs call for sanctions against the leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church comes more than three weeks after Patriarch Kirill referred to Ukrainians fighting back against Russian soldiers as evil forces who were fighting against the unity of Russia and the Russian Church.

OPAC was launched in November 2020 and led by George Gigicos, who served as the director of the White House Office of Presidential Advance under President Donald Trump. The organization was founded to expose and combat the persecution of Christians around the globe" and says it advocates for all persecuted Christians.

Archbishop Yevstratiy of Chernihiv and Nizhyn of the Autocephalous Church of Ukraine also called on sanctions against Russian Orthodox Church leaders for their comments about the Russian invasion of Ukraine last week, The Orthodox Times reported.

Yevstratiy, who serves as a spokesperson for the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, specifically called for sanctions against Patriarch Kirill, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, Father Nikolaos Balasov and Metropolitan Tikhon Pskov and Porkhov.

Four members of the Russian Orthodox Church are as guilty as Russian ministers, propogandists [sic], and [Russian President Vladimir] Putins oligarchs who have already been included in the list of sanctions, he said.

Yevstratiy maintained that the Russian Orthodox Church officials must be included in the international and Ukrainian sanctions list, as active members of the Kremlin regime, responsible for planning, executing and facilitating the war in Ukraine.

Additionally, Yevstratiy characterized the aforementioned leaders as the main supporters of the idea of the Russian World, a neo-imperialist plan that created the ideological background of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

All the above-mentioned individuals, due to their positions and the system that has been created in Russia between the state and the Church, undoubtedly maintain constant contact with the Russian special services, with government officials and with the presidential administration of the Russian Federation.

Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union, which dissolved in 1991. The Eastern European country achieved independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and gave up its nuclear weapons after signing the Budapest Memorandum.

The 1994 agreement stipulated that Great Britain, Russia, and the United States would protect Ukraine if it was attacked by a hostile foreign power and vowed to respect its territorial integrity or political independence.

While the memorandum includes assurances of protection, it doesn't carry the same weight as a legally binding treaty agreement and has no enforcement measures.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, U.S. President Joe Biden announced a series of sanctions that the U.S., along with a coalition of allied nations, would impose. The sanctions apply to Russian elites who have personally gained from the Kremlins policies and Russian banks. Every asset they have in America will be frozen, he vowed.

The calls for sanctions against the Russian Orthodox Church leaders come as Biden heads to Europe this week and will meet with NATO allies to discuss the international response to Russias actions.

The White House listed discussions about efforts to support Ukraine and impose severe and unprecedented costs on Russia for its invasion as part of the agenda for the presidents trip, which will include stops in Brussels, Belgium as well as Warsaw, Poland.

Biden's administration is gearing up to sanction hundreds of Russian lawmakers. The Wall Street Journal reports that an announcement could come Thursday.

There has been a rift between the Russian Orthodox Church and the global Orthodox community in recent years.

The Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, which holds authority over the worlds 300 million Orthodox believers, recognized the Ukrainian Orthodox Church as independent in 2019, meaning the Ukrainian Orthodox churches no longer fall under the jurisdiction of Moscow Patriarch Kirill.

The Russian Orthodox Church voted months prior to cut ties with the Patriarchate of Constantinople after a Ukrainian church was granted independence.

Following the Ukrainian Orthodox Church being granted autocephaly, several churches under Moscows jurisdiction severed their ties with the Russian church, moves that infuriated Russian nationalist sentiments, according to James W. Carr, a commissioner on the U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom.

The Russian government uses distortions of religious history to support its claim that Ukrainians have no independent ethno-religious identity or state tradition," Carr warned earlier this month in a statement voicing concern that the religious freedom of Ukrainian Orthodox believers is in "jeopardy."
Home News PCA petitions Biden protesting trans surgeries for minors: 'Attempting the impossible'

A Presbyterian Church in America commission sent a letter to President Joe Biden and other U.S. government leaders Sunday asking them not to promote sex-change surgeries and puberty interventions for trans-identified minors.

"It is more important than ever to protect children from the harms that come from rejecting biological sex," a PCA spokesperson told The Christian Post. "God created humanity male and female; persons who try to change their biological sex are attempting the impossible."

"Children, above all, must be protected and given time to progress through natural puberty. The PCA's letter affirms the Bible's care for children as a reflection of God's love and asks leaders of the United States government to protect the lives and welfare of the most vulnerable among us," the spokesperson added.

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The letter from a commission appointed by the PCA General Assembly sent to Biden, congressional leaders and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts coincided with the 50th National Sanctity of Human Life Day.

The PCA is the largest body of confessional Presbyterian and Reformed churches in North America, consisting of more than 1,500 congregations and 374,000 members in the U.S. and Canada.

The letter is the result of an overture the conservative denomination passed last June by a vote of 1,089-793 that formed a commission to draft a formal petition urging the government to "renounce the sin" of transgender procedures for minors.

The commission "humbly petition[ed]" the leaders to "protect the lives and welfare of minor children from the physical, mental, and emotional harms associated with medical and surgical interventions for the purpose of gender reassignment."

The authors stressed that medical attempts to change a person's gender through surgeries or hormonal intervention are physically impossible and can lead to more suffering.

"Persons who try to change their biological sex through the process of transitioning including psychotherapy, lifelong hormonal treatments, and extensive nongenital and genital surgeries  are attempting the impossible," the letter states.

Such interventions are in opposition to God's design of male and female, the commission said, possibly leading to "sterility, infertility, cancer, cardiovascular disease, strokes, blood clots, pituitary apoplexy, pseudotumor cerebri, and diminished bone density."

The letter called on leaders to "use your positions to promote the health, bodily integrity, and wellbeing of minors who are suffering from gender dysphoria and related conditions."

The commission acknowledged the "complexities" around such issues but predicated the appeal on the doctrine that all human beings are created in God's image, which they described as a "unique status" that "accords all human beings with inherent dignity, a dignity that extends to both soul and body."

The letter states that throughout its entire history, "the Christian Church in all her branches" has affirmed that the human body's value emerges from its creation by God and that surgical interventions to change a child's gender fly in the face of that.

"We believe current gender reassignment interventions for children are not in keeping with the high value of human bodies  a value determined not by circumstance, ability, or human judgment, but by the determination of our wise Creator who constituted each person a body-soul unity," the commission said in an apparent repudiation of the Gnostic teaching that the physical and spiritual natures of human beings are separate.

The commission grounded its petition in the teaching that God has special care for children, noting when Jesus Christ warned strongly against scandalizing children when he urged his disciples in Mark 10:14: "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God."

God has established the authority of parents and civil magistrates for the protection of children, especially, the commission noted, which it contends is an obligation widely acknowledged in Western society "until recently."

Gender dysphoria, the commission said, is a phenomenon that causes intense psychological suffering and has seeped into churches as it sweeps through the culture. Medical professionals disagree on the causes of gender dysphoria, and many advise a wait-and-see approach for minors who are struggling with it, the commission adds.

Proponents of such interventions contend that medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics support "gender-affirming care." The AAP clarified its stance in August, saying that while gender-affirming care can be "life-saving," the organization "doesnt push medical treatments or surgery; for the vast majority of children, it recommends the opposite.

The conservative American College of Pediatricians has long warned about sterilizing sex-change surgeries and hormone interventions for minors.

The PCA commission said children are uniquely vulnerable, exacerbated by social media and the alienation caused by the government's COVID-19 policies.

"While these vulnerabilities can be preyed upon by powerful external forces, they are also susceptible to the internal confusions and instabilities often accompanying childhood," the letter states.

Evidence shows that teenage girls especially are susceptible to rapid-onset gender dysphoria as a consequence of social contagion, the letter says, suggesting medical professionals who push such procedures on minors are violating their Hippocratic Oath.

"Children whose minds and personalities are still developing do not yet possess the perspective or maturity to make these irreversible decisions; they should be given time to accept their biological sex, which occurs in the majority of teens allowed to progress through natural puberty," the letter adds.

"Providing medical intervention for the purposes of transitioning does irreversible harm and injustice to all people, but especially minor children," the commission concluded. "For these reasons, we condemn the practice of surgical and medical gender reassignment, especially of minors, and we humbly petition you to protect the lives and welfare of minor children."

Petitioning the government is an unusual act in the denomination that adheres to the 17th-century Westminster Confession of Faith, which advises churches "not to intermeddle with civil affairs which concern the commonwealth, unless by way of humble petition in cases extraordinary." Supporters of the measure believe the Biden administration's support for such interventions fits the definition of "cases extraordinary."

The conservative Presbyterian denomination made national headlines in March when transgender-identifying Audrey Hale, 28, murdered three adults and three children at the Covenant School in Nashville. The school was affiliated with Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA).

The PCA was formed in 1973 when 260 congregations, primarily from Mississippi, Alabama and South Carolina, departed the mainline Presbyterian Church in the United States in response to what they saw as encroaching theological liberalism. The PCA has since swelled to include more than 375,000 members and more than 1,540 churches, according to its website.
Home News Russell Brand says Christ is becoming 'more important,' desires a 'personal relationship' with God

Comedian and podcast host Russell Brand said in a recent social media video that he finds Christianity and Jesus Christ increasingly important as he grows older and desires a "personal relationship with God."

"The reason I wear a cross is because Christianity and, in particular, the figure of Christ are, it seems to me, inevitably becoming more important as I become more familiar with suffering, purpose, self, and not-self," Brand said in a Saturday video, which he filmed while kneeling on a yoga mat.

Why I Wear A Cross!

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The 48-year-old actor said that he has been "reading the Bible a lot more," as well as Rick Warren's The Purpose-Driven Life. He said when he was growing up, Christianity appeared to him either "really irrelevant and old-fashioned and sort of dusty," or too modernized. Both those routes, he said, did not appeal to him when he was younger.

Things have changed after he has achieved "a certain amount of adulthood," he said. He has now come "to recognize that you need, I need, a personal relationship with God."

"It occurred to me that if instead of always talking to myself inwardly, I could replace one of those voices with an indwelling God. It says in Galatians it's our job to die, so that as Christ died on the cross, he might be reborn in us," he said in an apparent reference to Galatians 2:20.

Brand's video was met with an outpouring of support and encouragement from users on X, many of whom said they were praying for him.

Pastor Greg Laurie responded to Brand by posting a long letter addressed to him in which he explained that he was once put off by Christians until he heard the Gospel.

"The word 'Gospel' means 'Good news,'" Laurie wrote in part. "We are all sinners and we have broken God's commandments and fallen short of His standards. But the good news is that God loved us so much He sent His only son to die on the cross for our sins and then rise from the dead. Jesus is alive and ready to come into your life, Russell!"

Hi Russell-



I love what you have to say in this video!

We have never met, but I wanted to introduce myself.



My name is Greg Laurie and my life was radically changed by Jesus Christ.

I like you was put off by Christians at first, but then I heard the Gospel message.



The word https://t.co/siaV66dx20  Greg Laurie (@greglaurie) January 21, 2024

Babylon Bee CEO Seth Dillon wrote: "If he's not a Christian already, he may get there soon. The important question he needs to answer for himself is not whether Christianity is useful, but whether it's true."

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. replied to Brand's video simply: "Brilliant!"

Brand has suggested in recent months that he is on a spiritual journey leading him toward Christianity as he has faces allegations of sexual misconduct.

In December, he revealed that he was reading the Bible and The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis, a 1940 book that explores the role of suffering in a Christian context.

In September, a joint investigation by The Times of London and Channel 4 found that four women alleged Brand had sexually assaulted them between 2006 and 2013 during the height of his film career.

A subsequent report from The Sunday Times alleged that Brand assaulted a girl who was 16 years old at the time during an allegedly "emotionally and sexually abusive" relationship. Another woman told The Times that Brand raped her at his Los Angeles home in 2012, though she did not file a police report.

Brand has denied the "very serious criminal allegations" and maintained that while he was "very, very promiscuous" in the past, all of his sexual relationships were "always consensual."

During an interview with Tucker Carlson last year, Brand said, "Like many desperate people, I need spirituality. I need God, or I cannot cope in this world. I need to believe in the best in people."

He acknowledged that he "didn't have enough self-discipline to resist the allure of stardom" and "fell face-first into the glitter, and I'm only just pulling myself out now."

Brand said in a 2018 interview with Relevant Magazine that he believes "the teachings of Christ are more relevant now than they've ever been."
Feds Flag Purchases With Keywords MAGA And Trump, Brazil Flood Disaster, Mass Exodus From California And New York

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Top headlines for Monday, January 22, 2024

In this episode we unpack a recent controversy involving a U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Subcommittee's investigation into claims that the Biden administration encouraged banks to scrutinize transactions related to MAGA, Trump, and religious text purchases. Next, we take you south to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where we'll discuss the aftermath of devastating floods that resulted in the tragic loss of at least 12 lives with one person still missing. Finally, we examine the Golden State's role as a unique trendsetter in blue state public policywhat lessons can we learn from California's approach?

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Subscribe here for Season 3 of Generation Indoctrination

Top headlines for Monday, January 22, 2024

In this episode we unpack a recent controversy involving a U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Subcommittee's investigation into claims that the Biden administration encouraged banks to scrutinize transactions related to MAGA, Trump, and religious text purchases. Next, we take you south to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where we'll discuss the aftermath of devastating floods that resulted in the tragic loss of at least 12 lives with one person still missing. Finally, we examine the Golden State's role as a unique trendsetter in blue state public policywhat lessons can we learn from California's approach?
Home Opinion Alistair Begg, gay weddings, and love

Alistair Begg recently said Christians should attend gay weddings. He said:

Well, heres the thing: your love for them may catch them off guard, but your absence will simply reinforce the fact that they said, These people are what I always thought: judgmental, critical, unprepared to countenance anything.

His words made him a trending topic recently on social media. Some progressive Christians are using his words to make their LGBT-affirming stance appear more legitimate, and other Christians are denouncing him.

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One of the people denouncing Alistair Begg said:

You have geldings like Begg, who can spend decades in quiet, nice, respectable ministry, but inwardly be total cowards worthy of nothing but disgust. There is a desperation for men who act like men to lead  Conservative evangelicalism is desperate for men to lead, but the pathways for men-as-men to climb their way to leadership are completely cut off to them from the start. The only way forward will be to have churches which incentivize masculine leadership from the get-go and that attract and train young men who are really men and not conflict-avoidant nerds. And the second you do this, respectable men like Kevin DeYoung will attack you for your mood. You have to be willing to step over these people. You have to be willing to let the dead bury the dead. Respectable, winsome, Alistair Begg evangelicalism is dead and soon to be buried.

That person is around my age and Alistair Begg is twice our age at 71. I know that is increasingly irrelevant to many people today, but how we talk about people matters, especially when theyre significantly older than us. The Apostle Paul said to Timothy, Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father (1 Timothy 5:1).

Of course that doesnt literally mean we should never rebuke older men. After all, the Apostle Paul encourages Timothy to rebuke all unrepentant church members in front of the entire church (1 Timothy 5:20). It means we should be especially careful in how we rebuke older saints. If were supposed to rebuke everyone with gentleness, we should be even more gentle in how we rebuke older saints.

Especially since Alistair Begg has been a faithful pastor since well before I was born. Does almost 50 years of faithfulness mean nothing to us? If were ready to cancel him, then everyone should probably be canceled  except, apparently, zealous and inexperienced young men.

Alistair Begg should be corrected and rebuked for what he said. Im grateful people like Owen Strachan have done so in a candid yet kind manner. I admire Alistair Begg and Im looking forward to seeing him at this years Shepherds Conference. However, what he said is indefensible.

I cant think of any biblical reason for Christians to attend a celebration of what God calls an abomination. If a Christian attends a gay wedding and the marriage officiant says, If anyone sees any reason why these two should not be wed, let them speak now or forever hold their peace, wouldnt the Christian be obligated to speak?

Christians who attend gay weddings are just like Christians who obey a transgender persons preferred pronouns: theyre tacitly affirming sin.

Also, many of us need to stop acting like were commanded to disobey God to win the worlds approval. Were not called to be like politicians. We dont win our race by gaining the worlds approval. Were not supposed to worry about how the world reacts to righteousness. We should only be concerned about what unbelievers think about our sins  sins like attending a gay wedding.

In fact, God says its our opposition to the world that leads many unbelievers to become interested in the Gospel. So according to the Bible, refusing to attend a gay wedding is more likely to make them repent.

So no, its not loving to attend a gay wedding. 1 Corinthians 13:6 says: [love] does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.

Its not loving to attend a gay wedding and its not loving to cancel Alistair Begg.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 says: Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Some of Alistair Beggs critics are seemingly only interested in verse 6, not the rest of that Scripture. God commands us to love Alister Begg by being patient, kind, and hopeful with him. He doesnt say we should be envious of his influence, boastful about our own supposed courage, arrogant about our so-called masculinity, rude by calling him a gelding (castrated), insist that we must step over men like him, or irritated and resentful towards men like him.

Alistair Begg will give an account to God over what he says about Christians attending gay weddings and well also give an account to God over what we say about him.

Originally published at Slow to Write.
Home Opinion Its not a lie if you believe it

Lamenting the resignation of Claudine Gay from Harvard, an Associated Press article read: Harvard president's resignation highlights new conservative weapon against colleges: plagiarism.

I see. So, its those darn conservatives who scowl on plagiarism (are the articles authors suggesting the left esteems plagiarism?) that brought Gay down and not her actual behavior that most recently included not condemning antisemitic activities?

I used to wonder whether activists who broadcast such falsehoods really know theyre lying but continue to do so anyway to push their agenda ahead or they actually believe the lies theyre espousing.

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Porn use in a marriage is a good thing. The real victims of lootings and smash-and-grabs are the looters themselves. Socialism really works. Rice cakes taste great.

The scary thing is, its looking more like people truly think the lies theyre spreading are correct. At least thats the verdict of some psychologists who were cited on the subject in a recent Washington Post article.

Regarding truth vs. error, On every level, I think that misinformation has the upper hand, said Nathan Walter, a professor of communication studies at Northwestern University who studies the correction of misinformation.

While one study found that even a single exposure to a fake headline made it seem truer, Walter and others in the field believe the repetition of lies is particularly important in getting them to stick. They say the more we see something repeated, the more likely we are to believe it. This illusory truth effect arises because we use familiarity and ease of understanding as a shorthand for truth, i.e., the more a lie is repeated, the more familiar and right it feels even if its wrong.

Shocking to hear I know, but according to Nadia Brashier, a psychology professor at Purdue University, politicians in particular often repeat lies knowing the power of the illusory truth effect. And we fall for it, hook, line, and sinker.

Even worse, multiple studies have found that lies still affect our thinking even if we get a correction that we know is true, a phenomenon known as the continued influence effect.

Im sure it also wont surprise you to learn that the experts say we are more susceptible to swallowing lies when they fit into our worldviews or social identities. Favoring information that fits into what we want to be true is a mind practice, if you werent aware, called confirmation bias.

And nowhere is this more prevalent than in the area of faith and spirituality.

The perfect storm

What do you think happens when you take human beings that the Bible says are born at odds with God, then you hit them with a message about themselves thats off-putting, telling them theyre sinners and need to shed beliefs and lifestyle choices to which theyre wedded?

What happens is what G. K. Chesterton said: the danger of not believing in God is not believing in nothing, but instead believing in anything.

Scripture says our natural mind is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so (Rom. 8:7) with a moral inability thats powerless towards righteousness, and bristles at the offensive message of the Gospel that calls for repentance. The result for the natural person is the creation of mental false gods and a state where Isaiah says they cannot deliver himself, nor say, Is there not a lie [an idol] in my right hand? (Is. 44:20).

Where God is concerned, the Bible says we instinctively have forgotten [Him] and trusted in falsehood (Jer. 13:25) and exchange the truth of God for a lie, and worship and serve the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever (Rom. 1:25).

The practice of confirmation bias thats so widespread today is not a modern thing but has been around forever and is splashed throughout the Gospels with Jesus. Christs biographies highlight the fact that the Jewish leadership didnt want Jesus to be the Messiah so therefore He couldnt be the Messiah in their minds, and thus they looked for any excuse to take him down.

Early on, they already agreed that if anyone confessed Him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue (John 9:22). Jesus acknowledged their closed-mindedness during His trial when they asked if He was the Christ and He responded: If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I ask a question, you will not answer (Luke 22:67-68).

If I tell you, you will not believe. Say hello to the familiar post-truth philosophy we see everywhere today in the first century! As someone once said, Christianitys answers aren't hard to find; instead, they are hard to accept.

The only antidote to this spiritual illness is the one Person who is the truth: I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me (John 14:6). Only Christ can transform and renew our minds and hearts so that we can hear, understand, and accept Gods truth about ourselves and our moral bankruptcy.

In an episode of Seinfeld, Jerry has lied to one of his girlfriends who is about to put him through a lie detector test. As he apprehensively leaves to take the test, George offers the following advice: Jerry, just remember: its not a lie if you believe it.

Actually, the inescapable facts are that truth is truth, lies are not, and consequences exist for being mistaken even if youre sincere. Sometimes the negative outcomes are serious, long-lasting, and even eternal, such as when you diss God and His plan of salvation.

No matter how hard you try, theres no getting around it. George was wrong. If what you believe isnt the truth, it really is a lie, even if you believe it.
Home Opinion Sacred intimacy: Exploring sexuality through a biblical lens

In our current social climate, conversations regarding premarital sex often evoke mixed emotions and varied beliefs. Yet, for Christians, it's crucial to approach these discussions with a readiness to apprehend the Bible's teachings on sexual intercourse within the framework of marriage.

And yet, it's worth noting that many individuals identify as Christians today and consider sexual relations outside of marriage as normal and integral to their lives.

Famous blogger and progressive Christian Dianna Anderson sets forth this pattern of relativistic thinking in her book Damaged Goods: New Perspectives on Christian Purity:

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If you choose to wait, it is important to define why. Developing your sexual ethics is important for owning your body, and your sexuality. It is also vital to the practice of respecting and loving one's neighbors, because a defined, meaningful approach to the practice of sex, like all other disciplines, helps us to understand both ourselves and our relationship to others. Ultimately, defining your own sexual ethics and why you have them is an integral part of any future or current relationship, sexual or not.

Nadia Boltz-Weber, a former ordained Lutheran pastor, couldn't agree more. In her book Shameless: A Case for Not Feeling Bad about Feeling Good (About Sex), Boltz-Weber argues that the idea of confining sexual experiences solely to married couples is outdated. She believes that all forms of sexual expression should be embraced and celebrated as long as they are based on mutual consent among all parties involved.

However, when we turn to the Bible, we find a clear and consistent message that the sanctity and exclusivity of sex is meant for marriage alone. We never see an endorsed text of Scripture that condones the act of sex outside the marriage vows between a man and a woman. In fact, the writer of Hebrews boldly states, Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous (13:4). The phrase marriage bed is a euphemism for sexual intercourse. Here, the writer upholds the sacredness of sexual intimacy within the marriage bond while, at the same time, condemning sexual immorality (sin outside of marriage) and adultery.

The apostle Paul addresses the issue of premarital sex unequivocally in 1 Corinthians 6:18, declaring, Flee from sexual immorality. The Greek verb flee (pheugo) stresses that the command should be consistently followed as a regular practice. By abstaining from premarital sex, Christians actively honor God's commandments and protect themselves from the harmful consequences that can arise from sexual immorality.

Contrary to widespread misconceptions, Christianity doesn't brand sex as forbidden or unclean; instead, Christianity recognizes sex as a beautiful and intimate expression of love within marriage (see 1 Corinthians 7:3-5).

In Genesis 2:24, God establishes the blueprint for marriage, stating, Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. This union, symbolized through sexual intimacy, is a profound expression of unity, love, and commitment between a husband and wife. According to Ephesians 5:31-32, God created marriage as more than just a legal union. Marriage is a spiritually significant bond between a husband and wife whereby they achieve the joyous expression of oneness. In their award-winning book, The Meaning of Marriage, Tim and Kathy Keller write, Indeed, sex is perhaps the most powerful God-created way to help you give your entire self to another human being. Sex is God's appointed way for two people to reciprocally say to one another, I belong completely, permanently and exclusively to you. [Sex] ... is your covenant renewal service.

To God, sex is more than just an intimate act. He created it as a shared bond meant only for a husband and wife to experience together as they unite in body, mind, and spirit.

If you have engaged in premarital sex, I want you to know that Gods grace is readily available. There is no sin too big that Jesus Christ cant forgive. In his letter, John keenly remarks that if you confess your sins to Jesus, He is faithful to forgive you (see 1 John 1:9). The Psalmist portrays the breadth and power of God's forgiveness by proclaiming, as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us (103:12).

If youre a Christian single, the Bible reminds you that your body is not your own, but you are a temple of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20). May this profound truth guide your every action and decision regarding sex. Engaging in premarital sex disregards the reverence and respect you owe to both your own body and your future spouse's body. By waiting until marriage, you affirm the sacredness of sex and demonstrate your obedience to God and His commands.

As we explore the biblical perspective on the sacred gift of sex, we should approach the topic with humility and an open heart to God's guidance. Instead of imposing judgments or perpetuating shame, we should seek understanding and encourage one another to honor God's commands. Its important to remember that we all fall short, but God offers forgiveness and restoration when we repent. By embracing Gods design for sex within marriage, we can experience the joy and intimacy that comes from honoring His perfect plan.

As Christians, we are called to honor and uphold the teachings of the Bible in all aspects of our lives, including our sexuality. Therefore, we should humbly walk on the path set before us, cherishing and celebrating sex as the beautiful gift it was meant to be within the covenant of marriage.
Home Opinion Should a Christian actor participate in a nude love scene?

An article by Kelsey Dallas in the Deseret News asks, Can you be a Christian and play a sinful character on TV?

Dallas then notes that, Alan Ritchson, the star of Reacher, says you certainly can, and hes unhappy with supposed Christians who have a problem with him taking on a morally ambiguous role.

The article was triggered by a video by Ritchson, the hulking strong man who plays Jack Reacher in a new online TV series.

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Ritchson is known as an unashamed Christian, because of which he has received flak for playing Reacher, a character who, while fighting against the bad guys, is hardly a paragon of holiness.

In response, Ritchson said, I love playing Reacher. I love telling this story. I love playing a character who creates a kind of moral ambiguity that we should struggle against as we consider whether or not what hes doing is good all the time or morally right. I think that kind of thing is fun and fascinating, and I think escaping to that world as an audience, hopefully its as enjoyable for you as it is for me to help bring it to life.

He added, But its funny to me how a lot of people criticize me, supposed Christians especially criticize me for playing Reacher, as if the only TV that should exist is seeing people silently folding their hands in the pew of a church. I mean, what kind of stories are we supposed to tell?

I actually agree with him here. Christians should not be limited to acting in Christian roles alone. Obviously.

But the bigger question is more basic: Are there any lines that a Christian actor should not cross?

For example, could a committed Christian be a porn star? The answer is obviously not.

The Word of God is entirely clear on this, as Paul wrote to the Ephesian believers: Follow Gods example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for Gods holy people (Ephesians 5:13; many other verses could be cited).

It is forbidden for believers to engage in sexual acts outside of marriage (even if youre acting) or for believers to intentionally make themselves objects of lustful desire (which is the very essence of porn). As Jesus, Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come! (Matthew 18:7).

But what about something less extreme than porn? What about an actor participating in a love scene with partial nudity?

In the case of Reacher, this is not an abstract question.

As one viewer asked in response to Ritchsons passionate and articulate video, how he could justify doing a love scene in the shower with a topless woman? (Ritchsons video garnered almost one million views in less than a week, with many professing Christians cheering him on.)

The Word of God makes clear that, while we are not to make personal judgments about one another, The person with the Spirit [or, the spiritual person] makes judgments about all things (1 Corinthians 2:15), and the Letter to the Hebrews speaks of mature believers who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil (Hebrews 5:14).

What, then, does Gods Word have to say? What is the standard of heaven? (For the record, I did reach out to Ritchson through his agent listed online, but without success.)

Lets make this simple.

What if this was you or me filming this scene? Or what if this was your spouse? How would you feel before God? And could you say to Jesus, Lets sit down together and watch this partially nude love scene I just filmed?

I understand that actors act. But as one commenter on my X account noted, I believe it was John Piper who helped with this by saying when a man in a film is shot by a gun, the director yells cut and the dead man gets up having played the charade of being shot. When a person shows their nude body in a film, that is not a charade, but the real thing.

So, even though the couple is acting, there are the physical images that everyone sees  which are real, not pretend  and there is physical contact of an intimate nature between people who are not married. (If they were married, should this be put on display for the world to see? God forbid.)

Husbands, how would you feel if your wife was the actress in the scene? If she were the one topless, hugging and kissing another topless man for millions to see? (Or even for no one to see.)

Wives, how would you feel if your husband was the one hugging and kissing the topless woman?

Even if there was zero passion involved. Even if the presence of cameras and lights made the whole scene feel quite sterile in real life. The fact is that people are watching the scene  thats why it was filmed. And without a doubt, it would be sexually provocative to many watching it  and quite intentionally at that. And how could it not be defiling or compromising, at least on some level, for those acting the scene out?

If the Jesus you follow would say, No big deal, then youre not following the Jesus of the Word.

Going one step further, if partial nudity is OK, why not complete nudity? And rather than simulated sex, why not real sex?

Again, I am not Alan Ritchsons personal judge. It is Gods Word which judges us, and we both give account to Him.

More broadly, Im not here to judge those who have struggled with porn or to condemn those who are involved with porn. Many of them are enslaved and want to be free. They need the Lord! And all of us, outside of Gods grace and the blood of Jesus, are worthy of damnation. Even on our best days, we still fall short. I live by mercy too.

At the same time, God calls us to holiness and purity, not out of legalism or rule-keeping but out of love and because we belong to Him.

Its one thing to acknowledge Gods standards and say, Lord, I need help! I keep falling short. Its another to lower His standards. We do that to our own harm.

Thats why many other Christian actors have refused to do sex scenes or nude scenes. For them, it meant a compromise of their faith. (See here for actor Neal McDonoughs story.)

After all, it is the pure in heart who will see God (Matthew 5:8) and without holiness, no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).

As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.

Therefore, Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.

Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God (2 Corinthians 6:167:1).

And this: Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies (1 Corinthians 6:1920).

We do well to chew on these words. After all, they represent the heart of the God to whom we will all give account.
Christian teacher to appeal ban over 'misgendering'

A Christian teacher is to appeal against being barred from the profession after he refused to use a student's preferred pronouns.

Joshua Sutcliffe, 32, was banned indefinitely by the Secretary of State for Education for his refusal to refer to a biologically female student as a boy.

The Teaching Regulation Authority (TRA) struck him off last year after an investigation and disciplinary hearing claimed he had brought the profession "into disrepute".

He is appealing the verdict after the government published draft guidance on transgenderism in schools last December stating that neither teachers nor pupils should be compelled to use preferred pronouns.

"No teacher or pupil should be compelled to use these preferred pronouns and it should not prevent teachers from referring to children collectively as 'girls' or 'boys,' even in the presence of a child that has been allowed to change their pronouns," states section 6.3 of the draft guidance.

Mr Sutcliffe is being supported by the Christian Legal Centre (CLC) in his decision to appeal the TRA's ruling to the High Court. He is also pursuing a Judicial Review of the decision to ban him.

He said that while he felt "vindicated" by the release of the draft government guidance, it "means nothing" if his teaching ban remains in place.

"To continue to be barred from the profession I love in light of the draft guidance would be another of the many cruel injustices I have had to face for expressing my Christian beliefs," he said.

"In 2017 there was no training and no guidance on these issues for teachers. I was a young teacher building my career in the profession at a time when schools were taking guidance from Stonewall, not the government or any experts on these issues.

"After the pronouns debacle, I was a marked man in the education system and was pursued for any expression of my Christian belief until I was forced out of the profession indefinitely.

"Based on this ruling, every teacher is at risk if they share their beliefs and views in the classroom. I believe affirming children in gender confusion in the classroom is psychologically damaging for them. I refused to go against my conscience and cause a child harm and refused to apologise for that.

"The TRA wanted me to capitulate and say that I was wrong. I have been mercilessly punished for refusing to do so. I have been bullied and pursued and have had every part of my life scrutinised for expressing my beliefs and biological truth.

"This decision has put me and my family at risk. I have a young son and everything that is happening is affecting him. In light of the new guidance, I believe it is time for the TRA and the government to do the right thing."

The CLC's Andrea Williams said it was "now high time for justice for Joshua" and that the TRA ruling "cannot stand in light of the new guidance".

"We can't underestimate the chilling impact that the ruling in Joshua Sutcliffe's case has. Teachers are intimidated into silence for fear of losing their jobs if they say something with which the regulator disagrees," she said.

"The teaching profession is no longer an easy place to navigate for Christian teachers. Expressing long held Christian beliefs on marriage and gender can get you suspended, investigated and barred."

She added, "If the guidance had been in place six years ago, none of what Joshua has been through would have happened. It's now time for justice for Joshua. The ban must be overturned."


The Supreme Court The Supreme Court on Monday slammed the Tamil Nadu government for denying permission to conduct Annadanam (special almsgiving) on the occasion of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony on the ground of lower number of Hindu residents in a village predominantly inhabited by Christians. We are making it very clear that you (state government) do not reject events for this reason. Yes, if there is a law and order situation, you can regulate. We have made it very clear that we want to know the reasons for denial of permission. If this is the reason going to be given, you would be in a problem, a bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna told senior advocate Amit Anand Tiwari, who appeared on behalf of the Tamil Nadu government.



The bench, also comprising Justice Dipankar Datta, was hearing a plea alleging that the DMK-led state government has banned live telecast of Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in all the temples across Tamil Nadu and has also banned all kind of poojas, archana, Annadanam (poor feeding) and bhajans on the occasion.



The petition annexed an order passed by Dindigul district Deputy Superintendent of Police on January 20 denying permission to Sri Bhagavatiyamman Temple to conduct special almsgiving (Annadanam), inter alia, on the ground that the area of A. Vellodu village is predominantly inhabited by Christians and due to the lower number of Hindu residents, there is a possibility of encountering cultural sensitivities or legal complications related to public peace and morality.



Reacting sharply, Justice Datta said: If the order is to be made applicable across Tamil Nadu, wherever there are minorities, they will never be able to hold a prayer meeting."



Issuing notice on the plea, the apex court recorded the oral statement given by Additional Advocate General that there is no ban on live telecast and organisation of any religious rituals on the occasion of the auspicious occasion of 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram at Ayodhya.



Further, the top court ordered the authorities of the state government to decide the application seeking permission in accordance with law and to record reasons, in cases of rejection.



The authorities will also maintain data with regard to the applications received and the reasons given for allowing and disallowing such applications, it said.



The matter is likely to be taken up for further hearing on January 29.




Prince William has no plans to snub Church of England role, say palace officials

Royal officials have denied claims that Prince William does not want to become Supreme Governor of the Church of England when he becomes king.

The question was raised after the release of Robert Hardman's new biography of King Charles in which he quotes an insider who alleges that William does not share the spirituality of his father, nor the strong commitment to the Church of England of his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.

"In royal circles, it is no secret that he does not share the King's sense of the spiritual, let alone the late Queen's unshakeable devotion to the Anglican church," he writes.

A senior palace figure claimed: "His father is very spiritual and happy to talk about faith but the Prince is not. He doesn't go to church every Sunday, but then nor do the large majority of the country.

"He might go at Christmas and Easter but that's it. He very much respects the institutions but he is not instinctively comfortable in a faith environment."

In response, the Queen's former chaplain Gavin Ashenden suggested on GB News that if William did not want to assume the Church title, he should abdicate.

"William doesn't show any signs of being alive to the vibrancy of Christian faith. And in that sense, he is very representative of his generation, but I don't think he understands the monarchy because although lots of people have talked about disestablishing the Church of England and changing our constitutional arrangements, they're immensely complex and they go back through 500 years of legislation ... it would take an army of lawyers ten years to do it," he said.

The Times has since reported that Prince William has no plans to reject the role, which dates back centuries.

The newspaper quoted palace officials as saying that "the conversation had never come up".
As for balancing Centurys desire to grow with the challenge of keeping costs down, McCullen takes a two-sided approach. The first is having a clearly defined strategy on where the company wants to go, and the second is ensuring IT is prepared to execute.

Doing so requires McCullen to play the roles of two CIO archetypes at once: the foundational IT chief focused on managing IT infrastructure and the strategic CIO who prioritizes understanding business needs.

Its critically important to companies today that the CIO has a true ability to understand what the business is doing, and what they sell to their customers, he says, because that will help them on the strategy side in terms of what they need to be working on next.

On the foundational side, McCullen takes a partnership approach, engaging and working with technology partners when needed, building out small proof-of-concept projects first to prove out capabilities and determine fit before making the large financial and time commitment necessary to implement the new technology into Centurys IT engine for growth.

Build for one, scale for all

Annie Baymiller, senior vice president and CIO at Owens Corning, is another firm believer in staying very connected to business strategy as a means for supporting business growth. To that end, one of Baymillers direct reports also sits on a corporate team to stay abreast of Owen Cornings growth strategy and ensure IT stays aligned with that strategy.



To stay ahead of any issues that come with scaling the business, Baymillers approach is to be nimble, and build for enterprise use  one division at a time.

We work hard to build the technology or capability for the business that has the most near-term opportunity or ability to gain value from that [capability] and then scale to the other business [units] when the time is right, she says. Its build for one and scale for all, and thats helped a ton because it doesnt create additional costs.

The strategy is grounded in the fact that, even as all companies become more digital every day, that doesnt always mean 19,000 employees need the same technical capabilities at the same time, she says. Succeeding with this strategy requires staying clear on who needs the platform first  and building it like its an enterprise platform that could be rolled out everywhere eventually, based on need, she adds.

Even in supporting business growth, cost remains a key consideration, Baymiller says, especially as IT deploys more technology. Because of this, Baymiller must be really clear on the value being created, so if we put a dollar in we get at least more than that out in productivity, she says.

Sometimes business growth comes in the form of acquisitions, which has been the case for Owen Corning in recent years. There, the No. 1 priority for Baymillers team is to understand the security posture of the new company and make sure that anything that needs to be remediated is done before any integration work is done, she says. Its rigor and commitment to the strategy. We review that with our executive committee and the board and make no compromises on that. The same is true for any new technology the company adds. Were relentless on our security posture so we have the right eyes on it at the right time, she says.

Another aspect of Baymillers tech strategy is having a tight core of tools rather than several instances of ERP systems, for example, which also reduces cost complexity. That means IT gets good cost leverage on the platform and then we can scale it to other users in the company and anchor those platforms to other enterprise platforms.

Echoing McMullen, she says Owens Corning IT is working on starting small on new deliverables so we can add business value. If IT takes too long to gather all the requirements, then design, test, and build, by then the business requirements may have changed.

This will help us make sure were not overinvesting or gold plating something, which makes it hard to track metrics against value, because there are so many things we could be investing in, Baymiller says.

To better support business growth, Baymiller advises IT leaders to build connections with the heads of their business units and become part of their teams.

Relationship building and candor are really important, she says. Having a clear security strategy and making sure its well known by the executive team and board, if applicable, is really important. Being able to reference investments and tie them to business strategies makes it easier to make decisions, she says.

Wherever possible, Baymiller adds, work toward getting enterprise leverage out of capabilities you have and find ways to standardize where it doesnt create a competitive advantage for you. Finally, she says, Be nimble on things that do create competitive advantage so you can scale when the business needs it.

Keeping growing pains in check with solid IT strategy and culture

CoinFlips steep growth curve in 2023 has kept Sebastiaan Gybels, global CIO and CISO, and his IT team very busy.

To support the crypto ATM providers expansion into seven international markets with more than 4,500 ATMs, Gybels and his team have been tasked with everything from deploying an international IT infrastructure with embedded security to implementing automated tools to facilitate onboarding efforts worldwide  all while launching a new digital platform.

To keep up, CoinFlip IT proactively looks for ways we can automate solutions, optimize our current resources, and continue ensuring security for our customers and employees, Gybels says, adding that, with employees in Canada, Europe, and Australia, his IT team also fuels innovation by streamlining processes, fostering global collaboration and rapidly adapting to business demands while ensuring our teams operations remain compliant with domestic and international regulations.

All that requires listening to the heartbeat of the organization and removing friction wherever possible  and keeping an eye on costs while ensuring IT is doing its due diligence to protect users.

To keep costs down as we quickly grow, Ive prioritized centralizing our applications and systems across key departments, Gybels says. It helps eliminate redundant solutions, optimize our current contracts, and reduce expenses across the board.

Since it began operations, CoinFlip has made concerted efforts to identify vendors that can be strategic partners that will grow with our business, Gybels adds.

Like Baymiller, Gybels says IT leaders must enhance visibility, become more agile, and increase scalability to navigate security threats in high-growth environments. A simplified security stack reduces the need for specialized expertise to manage multiple disparate solutions, Gybels says. Additionally, it provides a clearer view of our security controls and helps us respond quicker.

And, as McCullen notes, the right staffing mix is key, Gybels says. You are only as strong as the people you surround yourself with.

For Gybels, supporting business growth, especially in light of security concerns, requires embedding IT and security stakeholders within organizational efforts and groups.

For example, with the rollout of the European operations, our data privacy manager played a key role in working across departments with our legal and business teams, establishing a runbook for the rollout in different countries, he says. This culture of collaboration increases understanding of business processes, aligns business needs and IT/security expectations, but also increases risk awareness throughout the organization.

In the fast-paced and dynamic world of crypto and startups, speed and responsiveness are critical for success, Gybels adds. Having a responsive IT and security team that can quickly identify and resolve problems minimizes downtime and ensures smooth business operations.
Remote work began as a temporary measure during the pandemic but has long been a permanent fixture in our new way of working. Organizations have shifted to remote desktop work environments at an increasing speed since then  simultaneously expanding their attack surface and exposing themselves to greater cybersecurity threats. The remote work revolution has pushed companies to rethink their security and data protection practices amidst hybrid work and cloud environments. In turn, threat actors have continued to exploit the vulnerabilities companies exposed themselves to, including those publicly identified, in keeping pace with rapid digital transformation efforts. Cyber Security Ventures estimates that the annual increase costs related to cybercrime will reach 10.5 trillion by 2025, as cyber risk management has not kept up with digital transformation posing serious risks to organizations security and revenue.

As a result, companies find it increasingly difficult to manage their attack surface at the speed and scale necessary to prevent attacks. Here are the top attack surface exposures and trends from the past year, and ways institutions can remediate these threats before they transform into critical issues.

Top attack surface exposures

Palo Alto Networks 2023 Unit 42 Attack Surface Threat Management report found that the top attack surface exposures exist via two methods: actions directly taken on a compromised device (such as exfiltrating sensitive files stored locally on the device) or leveraging unauthorized access on a compromised attack surface asset (such as compromising VPNs) to gain further access within an organization. Both methods affect hybrid work environments and exist in various forms. However, the cloud is one increasingly popular attack surface cybercriminals have homed in on. Cloud is the dominant attack surface through which these critical exposures are accessed, due to its operational efficiency and pervasiveness across industries. The key types of exposures, in order of prevalence, include web framework takeover, remote access services, IT and networking infrastructure, file sharing, and database exposures and vulnerabilities.

Web framework takeover and remote access service exposures accounted for over 40% of exposure types. Such services are heavily utilized in hybrid work environments and are fundamental to smooth business operations. Over 85% of organizations analyzed have RDPs accessible via the internet for at least 25% of a given month, leaving them open to ransomware attacks. Given that threat actors exploit critical vulnerabilities within mere hours of publication, this poses a serious security risk for companies.

The attack landscape has evolved to target critical infrastructure. These targets are more appealing to threat actors because they havent been regularly maintained in the past. Some of the most at-risk industries include several critical infrastructure sectors such as:

Healthcare

Utilities and energy

Manufacturing

Education

State/national governments

The growing trend of targeting critical infrastructure is concerning, as weve seen attacks like SolarWinds have devastating impacts.

Interestingly enough, high-tech companies were also among the top organizations targeted by threat actors. These companies heavily rely on remote access services, which can be a significant attack vector due to insecure servers, inadequate security protocols, cloud misconfigurations, exposure of security infrastructure (such as routers and firewalls), and more. Organizations across all industries can benefit from secure practices to limit their remote access exposures.

Key recommendations

Todays threat actors are adept at exploiting organizational vulnerabilities to gain access to remote environments. In addition to implementing the below suggestions, I suggest monitoring for emerging threats through comprehensive efforts that will set up a strong baseline for your company, such as a service retainer for threat landscape briefings or an audit of your organizations attack surface for risk.

Here are key recommendations and best practices organizations should consider strengthening their security posture and actively manage their attack surfaces.

Change your vulnerability mindset to identify legacy vulnerability management systems. This will assist your organization in resolving issues before they become mission-critical. Implement strong authentication methods for key internet-facing systems, such as multi-factor authentication. This way, organizations can secure remote access services and monitor for signs of unauthorized access attempts. Ensuring continuous visibility into on-premises and cloud assets is a must for security. By maintaining a real-time understanding of all company assets that are accessible online, you set your teams up for success in premeditating attacks. Attack premeditation is another vital way to secure your systems. Focus on addressing the most critical vulnerabilities across severity and likelihood through the Common Vulnerability Scoring System and Exploit Prediction Scoring System scores, respectively. Address cloud misconfigurations head-on. Regularly review and update your organizations cloud configurations to align with industry best practices; have your security and DevOps teams work together to drive secure deployments. While remote access services are crucial for hybrid work environments, their faulty configurations pose significant risks to company security. Respond to threats quickly. It is of chief importance that your security team respond instantly. Install protocols and mechanisms to help your team quickly leverage attack surface management tools to prioritize patches and remediate common exposures.

Understanding the threats you face, and what you need to protect your organization against them, is critical for a successful cybersecurity program. As research shows, companies and government agencies struggle to understand which assets expose them to the most risk. By implementing these key recommendations, organizations can take a more proactive and holistic approach to maintaining control over their infrastructure and evolving with the changing nature of their attack surface.

To learn more, visit us here.

About the Author:

Matt Kraning is the Chief Technology Officer of Cortex at Palo Alto Networks and was previously Chief Technology Officer and Cofounder of Expanse, which was acquired by Palo Alto Networks. Matt is an expert in large-scale optimization, distributed sensing, and machine learning algorithms run on massively parallel systems. Prior to co-founding Expanse, Matt worked for DARPA, including a deployment to Afghanistan. Matt holds Bachelors, Masters, and PhD degrees from Stanford University.
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Background

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a leave no one behind approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.



UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

During 2024  2027, UNDP and UNICEF will jointly implement the Project Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All, funded by the European Union.

The overall objective of the joint project Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All is to contribute to human capital development in the Republic of Moldova, improving quality and relevance of education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, for better matching the labor market demands. To achieve this, the Program will target the following specific objectives:

Strengthen institutions and system for teacher and school leaders' professional development and support the implementation of education policies to enhance quality of teaching and learning (Development Strategy Education 2030. Improve equitable access for all children to quality education, promoting the development of an inclusive, digital, and resilient education system. Upgrade learning environments through renovation of selected school infrastructures and facilitate the development of the 21st century skills, contributing to better education opportunities for pupils/students and improved efficiency of the school network.

Under this joint Project, UNDP will support professional development of teachers, promote life-long learning opportunities for adults, and be responsible for implementing interventions under the Specific Objective number 3 mentioned above, that aims at increasing quality, relevance, and efficiency of learning. More specifically, it will support Ministry of Education and Research in enhancing the learning environments and improving the teaching-learning conditions by setting up modern learning spaces, improvement of school infrastructure of 10 model/aspirational schools. It will also aim at redesigning existing STEEAM learning spaces to facilitate better learning, provision of modern technologies and teaching-learning resources and support the roadmaps for continuous development of digital learning space. The activities will ease the accessibility of students from remote areas to the model/ aspirational schools through access to transportation means and development of an integrated national system for school bus management.

Duties and Responsibilities



Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Cluster Lead, the incumbent provides effective and efficient coordination of the Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All Program, through a range of actions contributing to the design, planning, management and monitoring of project activities.

The Project Manager applies and promotes the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations, as follows:

Ensuring effective content and operational management of the project:

Oversee day-to-day operations and implementation of project activities;

Exercise close monitoring of project activities and produce monitoring reports;

Ensure the timely and efficient delivery of Project outputs and products, as per the Project Document, leading to the achievement of expected results;

Develop Work Plan, periodic narrative progress and final reports and expenditures status reports and submit to the supervisor;

Ensure the implementation of the activities under the Project work plan according to indicators for achieving planned results, as well as the overall management of the Project in line with UNDP rules, regulations and procedures;

Support UNDP CO in effectively managing human resources pertaining to the Project, including staff, consultants and short-term experts; conduct periodic performance appraisals; build, lead and motivate a solid team of professionals;

Support the efficient management of the Project financial resources, including budgeting and budget revisions, as well as expenditure tracking and reporting;

Continuously record and maintain Project issues and risks and suggest mitigation measures.

Lead and coordinate the organization of meetings, workshops, conferences, trainings, study visits and related activities relevant to the implementation of the Project;

Maintain a continuous effective dialogue with the key stakeholders, central and local government authorities, other UN agencies and actors active in the sector, CSOs, partner organizations, international and national experts in the areas of the Project intervention in view of identifying synergies and avoiding overlapping of assistance;

Maintain a close collaboration with other related UNDP programmes to ensure synergies and complementarities;

Ensure high quality information and visibility of the programme activities to the mass media and stakeholders and support mechanisms for exchange of information, experience and lessons learned at the local, national, and as required at international levels;

Perform any other duties connected directly with the implementation and evaluation of the Project as required.

Knowledge Management and Sharing:

Assist in coordinating the exchange of information internally and between relevant project stakeholders;

Ensure timely and proper documentation of the programme implementation process and products produced in accordance with the UNDP guides;

Capture and disseminate good practices locally, nationally and as required internationally;

Provide required substantive and administrative support in organizing / conducting variety of programme activities and events.

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization

Key Results:

The key results have a direct impact on the overall successful achievement of the Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All Project. Accurate analysis and presentation of information enhances UNDPs position as a strong development partner. The information provided facilitates decision-making of the Project Steering Committee, the Beneficiary and UNDP management.

Competencies



Core Competencies

Achieve Results: LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact

Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact Think Innovatively: LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems

Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems Learn Continuously: LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences

Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands

Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands Act with Determination: LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results

Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results Engage and Partner: LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration

Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity

People Management Competencies

UNDP People Management Competencies can be found in the dedicated site.

Cross-Functional & Technical Competencies

Strategic thinking Ability to develop effective strategies and prioritized plans in line with UNDPs objectives, based on the systemic analysis of challenges, potential risks and opportunities; linking the vision to reality on the ground, and creating tangible solutions Ability to leverage learning from a variety of sources to anticipate and respond to future trends; to demonstrate foresight in order to model what future developments and possible ways forward look like for UNDP

System thinking Ability to use objective problem analysis and judgement to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system, and to consider how altering one element can impact on other parts of the system

Human-Centered Design Ability to develop solutions to problems by involving the human perspective in all steps of the problem-solving process

Project Management Ability to plan, organize, prioritize, and control resources, procedures, and protocols to achieve specific goals

Digital learning and development Knowledge of digital learning methods and ability to design and develop digital learning programmes.

Digital transformation design Practical and strategic skills in digital transformation for governments and organizations

Communication Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and unambiguous manner both through written and verbal communication; to tailor messages and choose communication methods depending on the audience Ability to manage communications internally and externally, through media, social media, and other appropriate channels





Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Masters degree (or equivalent) in social sciences, development studies, public policy, education/pedagogy, international relations, employment, or related areas is required.

Bachelors degree in the areas mentioned above in combination with additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of Master`s degree.

Experience:

Minimum 5 years (with Masters degree) or 7 years (with Bachelors degree) of progressive working experience in the design, management and implementation of programmes, and/or working experience in a relevant position to this post.

Required Skills:

Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web-based management systems.

Understands more advanced aspects of primary area of specialization as well as fundamental concepts of related disciplines.

Desired Skills:

Progressively responsible experience is required at the national or international level in areas pertinent to the assignment  education, social science, employment, public policy is an asset.

Previous experience in development assistance or related work for a donor/development organization, governmental institutions, UN Agencies, NGO is a very strong advantage.

Experience in design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects, and leading and managing projects is an asset.

Experience in managing development projects in partnership with public entities and/or development organization is an asset.

Experience in working, liaising, and collaborating with UN agencies, governments, NGOs, civil society organizations, and public international organizations.

Knowledge and experience of capacity building theory and capacity building/assessment methodologies.

Additional training and certification in project management would be an advantage.

Languages:

Fluency in English and Romanian (written and spoken) is required.

Working knowledge of one or more additional languages relevant for Moldova, including Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian or sign language is an asset.

Institutional Arrangement

The Project Manager will work under the supervision of the Inclusive Growth Cluster Lead and will ensure the provision of development services and products commensurate with the scope of the Project and assigned area of responsibility of the highest quality and standards to national and local counterparts and clients through applying HRBA and GE approaches. The Project Manager will coordinate the project team, consisting of up to 4 persons, as envisaged in project organizational chart.

The Project Manager will work in close cooperation with the team in the Country Office (CO) for effective achievement of results, anticipating and contributing to resolving complex programme/project-related issues and information delivery. The incumbent is expected to exercise full compliance with UNDP programming, financial, procurement and administrative rules, regulations, policies and strategies, as well as implementation of the effective internal control systems.

Disclaimer



Applicant information about UNDP rosters



Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.



Non-discrimination

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Maha hails Lord Ram with poojas, temple bells, prasad and colourful celebrations At the stroke of 12.29 pm, lakhs of people in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra celebrated the Pran Prathisthan of Lord Ram Temple in Ayodhya with processions, special poojas, chanting of prayers, hymns, ringing temple bells, cries of Jai Shree Ram, spraying gulal, bursting of crackers and distributing sweet prasad and maha-prasad, here on Monday afternoon. The celebrations were taken up in a majority of the estimated 4,500 Hindu temples dotting the city, including big and small ones, several which are very old, some very big, others very popular, a few which are very magnificent, representing or dedicated to several gods-goddesses, attracting millions of devotees daily.



Since Sunday, almost all temples in the city have been decorated with flowers with marigolds the top favourite along with an assortment comprising tulsi, lotuses, hibiscus, etc, rendering the atmosphere divine and lilting.



At night, many temples resemble a colourful vibrant spectacle with twinkling fairy lights, tiny glowing lamps of ghee-oil casting a golden warm glow, symbolising an unprecedented second Diwali to accord a grand reception to the Prince of Ayodhya, Lord Ram at his abode.



Many housing complexes in urban centres like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nashik were fully or partly decorated with flowers and lit up with multi-hued Diwali-style lanterns to mark the joyous occasion.



Maharashtra government is one of the few states that had declared a full holiday, and it enabled lakhs of families including senior citizens and children to step out to the nearest temple and join the festivities, with many from different communities also participating wholeheartedly.



Hours before the Ayodhya Pran Pratisthan rituals attended by many VIPs and celeb, including scores from Mumbais big biz and Bollywood, many temples had initiated a special cleanliness drive, led by the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde since the past few weeks.



As per the CMs directive, each day, three major temples in each of the 24 Wards of BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) were scrubbed and deep-cleaned to wear a sparkling look ahead of the big day (January 22).



There are hundreds of Lord Ram Temples in Mumbai, but a few stand out for their unique history, traditions and the sentiments of devotees, including the Ram Mandirs in Borivali, Goregaon, Vile Parle, Dadar, Wadala, Bhuleshwar, or Walkeshwar, which witnessed massive crowds since early today.



Many temples have made special arrangements on LED screens for a live telecast of the Ayodhya ceremonies, hom-havans, aartis, special idols of Lord Ram and Sita, post-pooja prasad and maha-prasad (meal) for the thousands of devotees, plus a special 'maha-prasad' organised for the poor in Dharavi slums.



Some of the major temples are having festivities for three consecutive days with a host of religious, social and cultural events.



Elsewhere, in Dombivali town, 111,111 oil lamps were lit to herald the Lord Ram Temple consecration in Ayodhya, renowned chef Vishnu Manohar cooked up a staggering six tonnes of special halwa in the giant kadhai for lakhs of devotees at the Shri Mahalakshmi Jagdamba Temple, a chariot procession in Pune, a gigantic idol of Lord Ram taken out in a lively march in Mira Road town (Thane), among many others.



Hundreds of big and small Ram Mandirs were gaily decorated with flags and festoons, lit up with oil lamps and prayers were conducted in mofussil areas of the coastal Konkan region besides tribal pockets of Thane, Palghar, Nandurbar, Gadchiroli, Chandrapur and Wardha.




copyright Parliament

Most adults in the UK think the government should listen more to charities, according to new research, but many want to see tougher regulation of bad practice in the sector.

A YouGov poll of the public, published today, found that 59% of adults in the UK think the country would be able to tackle its long-term challenges better if government were to listen more to the nations charities.

The poll, conducted for Pro Bono Economics (PBE) and the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), found that 36% of people think charities are best-placed to understand the issues affecting people in the UK today while 30% said that charities should be more involved in decision-making.

But when asked which issues they would most like to see the government prioritise, 35% said strengthening regulation aimed at cutting down bad practice within charities.

Some 32% said that the government should encourage more wealthy people to support charities, while 24% said it should prioritise charities that work in the most deprived areas.

A charity sector which works hand-in-hand with policymakers across all parts of government would lift the voices of people who find it most difficult to be heard and ensure that a greater proportion of societys problems are stopped before they start, the report says.

This is the essence of ending sticking plaster politics. And when crises do inevitably occur  whether for individual families or entire countries  an equal partnership of government, business and the charitable sector would mean people emerging more swiftly and less affected.

Ultimately, by supporting charities and other voluntary organisations to operate at their potential, the next government can invest in moving more people into good work, in improving the health of the nation, in making our communities safer and more welcoming, and in spreading hope throughout our younger people. In doing so, they will be investing in a better Britain.

YouGov polled 1,088 UK adults between 19 and 26 December 2023 online, with figures weighted and representative of all.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Keir Starmer has pledged to reset the relationship between government and charities, if his party is elected, and announced his vision for a society of service.

The leader of the opposition told a roomful of charity representatives today that for too long, your voice has been ignored.

This is a once in a generation chance, a mission-led government, a partnership between government and civil society, he said.

Our door is open. We will welcome anyone who wants to make our national life better to take their place at the table to shape the future with us.

And, Ill be frank with you, it isnt just an invitation to you  its an ask.

He criticised the current Conservative government for waging war on charities such as the National Trust and RNLI that it considers to have woke agendas.

The relationship between government and civil society needs a reset, he told delegates at the Labour and Civil Society Summit in London, hosted by Pro Bono Economics.

Because you should feel that you can speak up on behalf of the people you serve without fear, call out injustice where you see it, continue to push us to be able to do better.

Starmer thanked those in the sector whose work so often goes unsung and said you should not have to clean up the mess your government created.

We want to harness civil society

Starmer said he wanted to implement an action plan on how a future Labour government would work with civil society for a society of service.

He said Labour would work with the sector on each of its five missions, which are around building, energy, the NHS, community policing and increasing opportunities.

Mission-led government is about partnership about devolving power to communities, setting long-term targets and working with people together, giving people the responsibility they deserve and the support that they need, he said.

We dont want to crowd out the social entrepreneurs. We want to encourage them. We want to harness civil society as one of the three key engines for renewal, working alongside the public and private sectors.

Civil society essential to economy

Starmer said civil society was more than something we can feel warm and fluffy about.

Its essential if we're going to get our economy back on track and achieve the highest sustained growth in the G7, he said.

Look at the thousands of charities across the UK supporting people back into work.

The organisations facilitating local regeneration or providing more than six million volunteering opportunities and employing almost a million people.

A full transcript of Starmers speech can be read here .

Shadow minister plans further discussions with charities

Also speaking at the event, shadow civil society minister Lilian Greenwood said further discussions with charities would be held to inform the action plan announced by Starmer.

Over the coming months, were going to be holding further conversations, roundtables and working groups as we develop a civil society mission action plan that harnesses your energy and expertise.

So, its not just today this doesnt have a great conversation and it comes to an end. Theres a follow up. Were going to take this and to build on it.

So, well be looking at how a future government not only will deliver those missions, but might support the huge breadth of civil society organisations and I will do everything in my power to unlock your potential and to bring change to your communities.

Greenwood previously told Civil Society about her plans to work with charities to develop a new strategy, and for civil society to be part of developing what that partnership looks and feels like.

We have to make sure that is embedded across all departments so that everyone sees civil society as important in delivering our mission, she said.

Im hoping that weve got that in place before a general election, so well be able to know what we want to do if we get into power.

Sector bodies welcome partnership pledges

Jane Ide, chief executive ACEVO, said: Sir Keirs speech today was a welcome recognition of the unique value of civil society. It is clear that our sector is intrinsic to the missions not only of a potential Labour government but to any incoming government in seeking to successfully deliver its aims.

Our sector can do so much that the public and private sectors cant; our position of trust in communities is key to achieving change and our voice in campaigning is needed to deliver effective public policy.

We are ready to accept Keir Starmers ask to come to the table and work in partnership with a future Labour government, if that is the outcome of the next election, and to bring the unique, invaluable expertise within our sector to bear in enabling the people we are here to serve to thrive.

Matt Whittaker, CEO of Pro Bono Economics, said Starmer rightly acknowledged that the sector has been ignored for too long by policymakers, amid the competing demands of the state and business.

The society of service vision identified in todays speech marks the first time a political leader in the UK has set out a strategic vision for how the sector can serve as a partner to government since David Camerons big society concept in 2010.

Importantly, this new vision also recognises the essential role the sector has to play in the countrys economic regeneration.

He added: It is vital then that the government which comes to power following the next general election introduces concrete policies designed to help the sector unleash its full potential.

Writing for Civil Society , NCVO chief executive Sarah Vibert said: It feels like the relationship between the sector and Labour is headed in the right direction.

There is a great amount of charity experience in Labours team. They understand the challenges  theyve worked on the frontline.

She added: Having five missions clearly set out gives the voluntary sector a framework in which to meaningfully engage and share our expertise.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Mayhew unveils new CEO

Animal welfare charity Mayhew has announced that Sherine Wheeler, CEO, will leave the charity at the end of March 2024 after almost two years in post.

The board has appointed Elvira Meucci-Lyons to be its next CEO. She is set to join the charity from Butterfly Conservation where she is currently director of income, marketing and communications. Prior to this, she led fundraising and communications at CPRE, the countryside charity.

Chair of Mayhew, Julianne Hicks, said: Im thankful to Sherine for her service to Mayhew and for her extraordinary leadership during a tough time in the sector. In the prevailing economic conditions, Mayhew, like many charities, has experienced a challenging financial and operational situation. Im grateful for Sherines steadfast, warm and tenacious leadership. She has been ambitious for Mayhew and worked very hard to achieve our current position.

Save the Children hires interim CEO

Gemma Sherrington, executive director of fundraising and marketing at Save the Children UK, has been appointed as interim CEO for the international development charity.

She will take up the role on February 19 when CEO Gwen Hines steps down after three years. She leaves to become CEO of Plant Heritage in March.

Sherrington joined Save the Children 16 years ago as its ventures manager and has worked her way up through director positions.

Brake hires new CEO

Ross Moorlock has been appointed as CEO of Brake, the road safety charity, after taking up post on an interim basis last April. He replaced Mary Williams, founder and former CEO of Brake who held the role for 29 years.

Moorlock has been with Brake since 2017 when he joined as chief operating officer.

On his appointment, Moorlock said: Its a real privilege to have been chosen for this role and to lead Brake in what is an exciting new chapter for the charity. I am fortunate to work with a fantastically talented and motivated operational team and board at Brake, and Im excited about continuing our work together as we grow the scale and impact of our organisation even further. The charity enters 2024 more determined than ever to stop crashes on our roads, reduce harm and support those affected through our National Road Victim Service.

Pets as Therapy recruits new CEO

Steve Wibberley has been appointed as the pet charitys new CEO. He replaces Clare Davis, who left the role after two years to lead Longfield Hospice.

Wibberley joins from Cruse Bereavement Support, where he was CEO for over five years. He is currently chair of the River Thames Boat Project.

On his appointment, Wibberley said: I am honoured and excited to join Pets As Therapy as the new CEO. Im committed to working alongside our dedicated team, volunteers and partners to ensure even more people receive the transformative benefits of time with pets and animal-assisted therapy.

Hft appoints new CEO

The learning disability charity Hft has appointed Steve Veevers as its new CEO. He takes over from Kirsty Matthews, who stepped down after three years in post.

Veevers became CEO after taking over the role on an interim basis last November. Before that, he worked as managing director at Care Dorset UK for a year. He holds experience in senior roles at Dorset Council UK, Discovery and more.

Chair of the board of trustees, Amanda Bunce, said: Steve brings with him a commitment to collaborative approaches across local communities, not-for-profit providers and statutory organisations to help people live their best lives, something he will support Hft to continue doing well.

Medaille Trust CEO steps down

The Medaille Trusts CEO, Garry Smith, has announced he will be stepping down after six years in post.

He is set to take up the role of director of mission at Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL).

Medaille Trust is now taking applications for the role, which is advertised with a salary of 80,000 - 90,000 a year.

New chair appointed to Elischer Foundation

Luke Mallett is the incoming chair of the Elischer Foundation, which was created in memory of the fundraiser Tony Elischer.

Mallett takes over from Richard Taylor, who held the role since 2022 after joining the trustee board in 2019.

Mallett is a volunteer mentor at the charity and has twenty years of leadership experience in the sector, having held roles at Save the Children, British Heart Foundation and Young Lives vs Cancer.

Outgoing chair Taylor said: Under Luke's leadership, the foundation is poised for an even brighter future. Serving as a trustee has been an honour, and I look forward to witnessing the great accomplishments to come under Luke's stewardship, who has both my sincere thanks and utmost confidence.

New director at Zoological Society of London

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) has appointed Catherine Hart as its director of development. She takes over from Meredith Hunter.

Hart joins from Guys and St Thomas where she was director of fundraising for over four years.

Before that, she was head of major gifts at UCL. She began her career at Cancer Research UK where she worked in various roles for over eight years.

Hart said: I am thrilled to be joining ZSL at such a pivotal point in its journey. The work of ZSL has never been more vital. With ambitious plans on the horizon, Im looking forward to getting started in my new role, working together with the extraordinary team at ZSL and its supporters to make a greater impact on the world's wildlife.

RNIB appoints new chief people officer

Sean Mileusnic is set to join the charity as its chief people officer in early February.

Mileusnics most recent role was as global vice president of people and culture. He has held senior roles at Royal Mail, Yorkshire Building Society Group and more.

He will lead the people function at the charity and focus on developing high-performing teams and a collaborative culture.

RNIB CEO Matt Stringer said: Were delighted to welcome Sean to the charity. Sean brings broad, relevant experience to bear from a range of different sectors which will strengthen our leadership team.



As someone passionate about making a difference, Sean is training to be a Special Constable in his spare time. After taking some time to consider his next steps, Im pleased that he wants to make that difference at RNIB to help us create a society where blind and partially sighted people can participate equally.

Young Lives vs Cancer appoints director of income generation

Dominique Davis has been appointed as the new director of income generation at Young Lives vs Cancer.

Davis has an extensive background in the charity sector, joining the charity from Teach First where she was director of fundraising. She was also UK national director for Right to Play and spent 10 years at Save the Children where she led their humanitarian fundraising team.



Rachel Kirby-Rider, CEO, said: Were excited to welcome Dominique, who brings fantastic fundraising knowledge and expertise as well as great energy and leadership.

She will take up her new role at the end of January, and said: I'm thrilled to be joining Young Lives vs Cancer. Thousands of young people are affected by cancer every year and its Young Lives vs Cancers holistic approach to supporting these children and their families that really inspires me. As the need for cancer support continues to grow, so does the need to generate the financial and non-financial support so we can continue to deliver our promise to support young cancer patients.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
KILLINGTON, Vermont  Nearly two dozen skiers and snowboarders, several of them juveniles, were rescued Saturday after they got lost in the states backcountry.

A news release from the Killington Police Department says dispatchers were called at 2:30 p.m. and initially told that seven to nine skiers and snowboarders were lost. However, police and rescuers with the Vermont State Polices Search and Rescue team soon found out that 21 people were lost.

The Killington Police Search and Rescue team also was called in and rescuers hiked, snowshoed and skinned about five miles in frigid temperatures to find the missing people and bring them back to safety.

After bringing back the initial group, rescuers learned there were two more skiers reportedly lost. Six KSAR rescuers hiked back out into the backcountry and found the skiers, leading them back to safety at about 7:30 p.m.

There were no reports of injuries.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A televised debate is scheduled tonight featuring the three Ohio Republicans competing in the March 19 primary election for the chance to unseat Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown in November.

Here are some details about how you can watch it.

The hourlong debate begins at 7 p.m. and features state Sen. Matt Dolan of Chagrin Falls, Secretary of State Frank LaRose and former Cleveland area car dealer Bernie Moreno. Its being filmed at WJW Fox 8 studios in Cleveland, but will air on TV affiliates and their digital platforms live across the state.

The affiliates include WCMH in Columbus, WDTN in Dayton, WYTV in Youngstown, WTRF in Wheeling/Steubenville and WOWK in Charleston, West Virginia, as well as the stations digital platforms.

The moderators are Joe Toohey, a Fox 8 anchor and Colleen Marshall, an anchor for WCMH in Columbus, and its being produced by Nexstar Media Group and the Ohio Republican Party. A cleveland.com/Plain Dealer reporter will be covering the debate and publishing an article recapping it.

Dolan, LaRose and Moreno previously have appeared at a handful of candidate forums around the state, including an October event in Medina. But tonight will be the first time they will appear before a large audience across the state and have actually debated, a format that involves providing timed responses to identical questions.

Even though he is a first-time candidate, Moreno is favored in the race thanks to an endorsement he received from ex-President Donald Trump last month. But all three candidates have millions of dollars to spend and have been using it to run ads that have appeared across the state.

While Election Day isnt until March 19, early voting for military members and other overseas Ohioans will begin on Feb. 2. Early voting for most Ohioans, though, will begin on Feb. 20, 30 days before the election.

Whoever wins the Republican primary will go on to face Brown in November in whats expected to be one of the most expensive and closely watched elections in the country.

Andrew Tobias covers state politics and government for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer
A California woman was arrested and charged with shoplifting thousands of dollars worth of Stanley Quencher tumbler water bottles from a retail store near Sacramento, according to police.

The incident occurred Jan. 17, when the 23-year-old woman was reported for taking a shopping cart full of Stanley water bottles without paying for them, according to a news release from the Roseville Police Department. The woman refused to stop for staff at the store and loaded her car with the stolen merchandise, which totaled 65 Stanley water bottles with a value of nearly $2,500, according to the release.

She left the scene, but an officer spotted the woman entering Highway 65 and initiated a traffic stop. After officers discovered the stolen merchandise, the woman was arrested and charged with grand theft.

RELATED: NBA, former Toledo player accused of shoplifting from Target

RELATED: Stanley releases new colors for its popular tumbler: Where to buy

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Stanley tumblers have created a sales frenzy both in stores and online as the popular water bottle has become a viral sensation. Stanley Quencher 40-ounce water bottles are available for sale online for $45 at the companys website, but select versions of the water bottle are being re-sold online for hundreds of dollars.

While Stanley Quenchers are all the rage, we strongly advise against turning to crime to fulfill your hydration habits, Roseville PD said in the release.


Massive blast heard at industrial park in central Iranian city A massive blast was heard on Monday morning at an industrial park in the central Iranian city of Garmsar, Semnan province, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported. The source of the blast had not been determined yet, the report said, adding local authorities had sent rescue teams to the industrial park, Xinhua news agency reported.



According to Mehr, this is the fourth incident in Semnan province's industrial parks and areas over the past few days.



Four people had been killed in the previous incidents.




Journalist Tina Nguyen, the author of The MAGA Diaries: My Surreal Adventures Inside the Right-Wing (and How I Got Out). Rachel Hine

On Jan. 6, 2021, journalist Tina Nguyen was sitting in the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., working on a story for Politico magazine on rumors of a rally there by fringe protesters convinced the 2020 election had been stolen from Donald Trump.

The rally looked to be a nonevent, and Nguyen had long had difficulties getting editors interested in such bizarre elements as QAnon, the Proud Boys, white nationalists and neo-Nazis. But it was not yet noon, and Id already seen three people in full-fledged body armor. That was different, she writes in her book, The MAGA Diaries: My Surreal Adventures Inside the Right-Wing (and How I Got Out). By the end of the day, her longtime beat covering the far-right effort to Make America Great Again had suddenly gone mainstream.

Nguyen came by her interests in this arena early: Either by coincidence or inevitability, my coming of age took place in the birthplace of MAGA: the conservative movement at the dawn of the 21st century, a secret world with a unique culture of fellowship, drive, and ambition that knits the right, like being in politics summer camp with your best friends forever.

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Raised in a financially struggling Vietnamese American family in Massachusetts, she finds herself, via financial aid and a controlling first boyfriend, at Claremont McKenna College in Southern California. CMC, as its known, is a ground zero of intellectual libertarian education, and there in 2008 Nguyen first encountered the high-rolling realm of figures such as William Kristol, Peter Thiel, John Bolton and seedier types like Andrew Breitbart. Later, she meets Steve Bannon. She wins a journalism internship, mentors take her on, and she winds up at the Daily Caller, one of the first far-right news sites. There she meets Tucker Carlson, who charms, inspires and hires her.

The MAGA Diaries: My Surreal Adventures Inside the Right-Wing (and How I Got Out) by journalist Tina Nguyen. One Signal Publishers

Her path was rocky from the start, as she was both insecure  I was born to rubes, studied with rubes, took jobs with rubes, and still talked like a rube  and too smart not to note unnerving problems in her new arena. Immediately I was thrown into the insane asylum, she writes. Conspiracists and paranoia abounded. Funders called the shots and slants, and online clicks ruled all. And she realized she risked being condemned to the conservative media ghetto of writers who could never again be hired in the mainstream press because of the toxicity of their resume, regardless of what their actual political beliefs were. Plus, her trusted mentors were too often being exposed as white supremacists, eventually including that first boyfriend years later.

But Nguyen made it out, scoring a job at Vanity Fair. There, any mention of her right-wing history was met with blank stares at best and youre a classless fringe lunatic and how did you get through security stares at worst. But then, she writes, the most hilarious news item popped up on Twitter, and I wrote it up with glee: Donald Trump Announces Run for President.  Of course, that soon wasnt so funny  shed seen it coming, and shes gone on to author Politico pieces as part of the White House press corps and still covers Trumpworld for Puck, a new online news company.

Theres now a full shelf of books about Donald Trump by disaffected former associates who have spoken out after their time with him. The MAGA Diaries is unique in coming from someone who witnessed this movement developing from within. Nguyens first-person report of the long-term right-wing network effort to recruit and indoctrinate youthful students into ways of thinking considered fringe not so long ago is valuable. Likewise, her aghast discovery of the GOP plan for a constitutional convention that might basically abolish the federal government: The first time I read The Handmaids Tale, I knew that its author, Margaret Atwood, got the premise wrong, she writes. Conservative activists wouldnt have seized their power through a violent coup  they were going to do it gradually and slowly, using the Constitution as a clever road map.

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And she explores what she considers the bizarre Christian embrace of a figure who is undeniably the opposite of Jesus. She avoids the term cult, but thats clearly what she describes, a mass movement of disaffected angry people with a ticking time bomb in their head. And like most cult survivors, she was once a somewhat naive believer but is now clearly very worried about her former colleagues and convictions. Her book reads not as regretful or apologetic, although she clearly sees things differently now.

Nguyen concludes with a 2022 conversation she has with her old friend Carlson before he was fired at Fox News, wherein he seems to have wandered into some strange alternate unreality. Her old MAGA beat was my entire world, once again  and now it was everyone elses world, too.

If that sounds like a warning, thats because it is.

Correction: This story has been updated to correct that Tina Nguyen did not meet Steve Bannon at Claremont McKenna College, but later on; that Nguyens former boyfriend was revealed as a white supremacist in 2019, not in 2012; and that Nguyens conversation with Tucker Carlson occurred in 2022 before his firing from Fox News, not after.

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Luis Vasquez of the Soft Moon was among three people found dead last week in a Los Angeles loft of a suspected fentanyl overdose. Marion Costentin/Courtesy of Motormouth Media

Former Bay Area musician Jose Luis Vasquez, the sole member of the post-punk act the Soft Moon, was among three people found dead last week in a Los Angeles loft of a suspected fentanyl overdose.

The incident also claimed the lives of John Juan Mendez, a 46-year-old DJ who performed as Silent Servant, and his partner, Simone Ling, 43, at her residence in the Pacific Electric Lofts on Main Street.

Vasquezs wife initiated a welfare check, leading to the grim discovery, law enforcement sources told the Los Angeles Times.

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The Los Angeles Police Department Central Bureau homicide investigation said drug paraphernalia was found at the scene, prompting authorities to consider the deaths as a potential overdose. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiners Office said that it might take three to six months to determine the final causes of death.

Vasquez, a 44-year-old vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, achieved acclaim with the Soft Moon, producing five albums and garnering an international fan base. His outfit toured with acts such as Depeche Mode, Interpol and Mogwai, and performed at the Cruel World Festival in Pasadena last year.

It is with great sadness that we announce our dear friend, Luis Vasquez has passed away, read a statement on the Soft Moons social media. Our hearts and thoughts are with his family, friends and extended music family. We ask you to respect their privacy during this difficult time  This is a huge loss and our hearts are broken.

Inspired by 80s post-punk and shoegaze, Vasquez crafted the Soft Moons self-titled debut full-length solo in his Bay Area apartment over a year in 2010. But the Los Angeles natives time in the region was brief. Vasquez was robbed at gunpoint in his Oakland neighborhood in 2012, resulting in the theft of a backpack containing the outfits second finished album and two years worth of demos. He subsequently relocated to Venice, Italy, in 2013, and then to Berlin in 2018, before returning to Los Angeles last year with a stop in Joshua Tree.

The Soft Moons fifth and most recent release, Exister, came out in 2022.
Glenn Helzer, convicted for the murders of five people in Contra Costa and Marin counties, is escorted from the Superior Court in Martinez after a jury recommended the death sentence on Dec. 17, 2004. MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images Glenn Helzer, center, in a Martinez courtroom after a jury recommended the death penalty on Dec. 17, 2004, in connection with the deaths of the daughter of blues guitarist Elvin Bishop and four other people during an extortion and murder spree in 2000. On Monday, the state Supreme Court on Monday upheld his death sentence. Karl Mondon/Associated Press 2004 Brothers Justin Helzer, 29, left, and Glenn Helzer, 31, are led into court for a preliminary hearing in Martinez on Dec. 3, 2001. Bob Larson/Associated Press 2001

The state Supreme Court on Monday upheld the death sentence of Glenn Helzer, a self-described prophet who murdered five people in Contra Costa and Marin counties in what he described as a plan to bring about the second coming of Jesus.

In a unanimous ruling, Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero rejected a challenge to a sweeping police search of Helzers Concord home, and defense arguments that the trial judge should not have dismissed a prospective juror who said she was against the death penalty but might be able to vote for it.

While jurors who oppose capital punishment can take part in death penalty trials if they agree to keep an open mind, this juror said there was only a 1% chance she would vote for a death sentence. She said she would consider all the evidence but did not repeatedly affirm that she could be a fair and impartial juror, Guerrero said, so Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge Mary Ann OMalley was entitled to remove her from the jury pool.

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And although officers seized some things unrelated to the case in their search of Helzers home, Guerrero said, their search warrant allowed them to recover a broad range of items related to the crimes, including guns and ammunition, and prosecutors were entitled to present them as evidence.

Helzer, now 53, left his job as a stockbroker in 1998, began taking drugs, and soon started describing himself as a prophet who would save the world from Satan with killings that would return Jesus Christ to Earth. He called himself and his followers the Children of Thunder, and, as the court described his attitude, he was prepared to sacrifice a few to save billions.

In the summer of 2000, Helzer and his younger brother, Justin Helzer, went to the Concord home of a wealthy retired couple, Ivan Steinman, 85, and his wife, Annette Steinman, 78, in hopes of extorting $100,000 for their plan. After the couple initially refused to turn over the money, the brothers drugged them and they signed the checks. Glenn Helzer then slit Annette Steinmans throat, and Justin Helzer battered her husband to death.

They gave the money to Glenn Helzers girlfriend, Selina Bishop, 22, daughter of blues guitarist Elvin Bishop, then went to her home and killed her. The three bodies were found dismembered in gym bags in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.

Fearing that Bishops mother, Jennifer Villarin, could identify him, Glenn Helzer went to her home in Marin County and fatally shot Villarin, 45, and her boyfriend, James Gamble, 54.

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Glenn Helzer pleaded guilty to the five murder charges, then sought a life sentence but was sentenced to death by a jury in 2005. Justin Helzer pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity but was convicted and sentenced to death. He hanged himself with a bedsheet in his San Quentin State Prison cell in 2013. Their roommate, Dawn Godman, who admitted taking part in some of the crimes, testified for the prosecution and was sentenced to 38 years to life in prison.

California has 650 prisoners who have been sentenced to death. Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a moratorium on executions after taking office in 2019, but has not reduced any of the death sentences to life in prison by granting clemency.

Glenn Helzers lawyer, Jeanne Keevan-Lynch, declined to comment on Mondays ruling.
 
Bitcoin extended its losses on Monday, dipping below $40,000 for the first time this year and pulling the rest of the crypto market down with it.

The price of bitcoin was last lower by 3.9% at $40,052.76, according to Coin Metrics. Earlier, it fell to $39,414.80, its lowest level since Dec. 3. Ether dropped 5% to $2,333.00.

Bitcoin is still in its correction phase following the launch of several spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds in the U.S. for the first time ever. In the months leading up to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission giving the green light to begin trading, investors bought bitcoin in anticipation of the approval.

"Today's bitcoin move is wholly expected," said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO and chief investment officer at Defiance ETFs. "It looks like a 'sell-the-news' pullback, before we see the cryptocurrency recapturing its bullish trajectory."
Cryptocurrency investors spent much of 2023 waiting for good news. Following the late 2022 collapse of FTX  at the time the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange  popular digital currency bitcoin traded just north of $16,000 to start the year, a far cry from the more than $60,000 it traded for during 2021's crypto boom. Over the last few months, though, things began looking up. Crypto investors became more and more convinced that the SEC would approve a years-long effort from fund companies to bring a spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund to market, a move crypto boosters expected to stoke demand for the popular coin. By the time news broke on Jan. 10 that 11 new bitcoin ETFs would begin trading, crypto investors were taking a victory lap, having bid the coin's price up by 155% in calendar year 2023. So, what now? Are we off to another crypto bull market, or have bitcoin enthusiasts gotten ahead of themselves? "This is definitely an inflection point," says Brian Vendig, president of MJP Wealth Advisors in Westport, Connecticut. Here's what he and other experts say to expect from here.

Expect more demand, and more new funds

The new wave of bitcoin ETFs makes it easier than ever for investors in more traditional assets, such as stocks and bonds, to dip their toes into crypto. Instead of having to open a separate account to buy crypto  often with high trading fees  investors in the ETFs can hold bitcoin right alongside their other investments in their brokerage accounts. That's just the beginning, says Matthew Sigel, head of digital assets research at VanEck, an investment firm that offers one of the 11 new funds. "We think it was a huge step forward that will unlock significant demand, given the cost savings for the retail buyer and security available to institutional purchasers," he says. The new ETFs will soon allow advisors who deal with high net worth clients and big money institutions to start incorporating crypto into their portfolios, he adds. "They don't have the ability to put these bitcoin ETFs into client discretionary portfolios, yet," Sigel says. "But we can observe several banks and brokers already preparing these models, which we expect to emerge later this year." Expect more new crypto ETFs, too  and in different flavors. "It seems inevitable that we'll have ETFs tied to ether, as a secondary cryptocurrency for people to invest in," says Todd Rosenbluth, head of research at VettaFI. In the meantime, he says, "the door is now open for a range of ETFs that include bitcoin as well as other assets." Experts say these might be as simple as portfolios that combine bitcoin exposure with mainstream investments, such as those in the S&P 500. More complex so-called alternative strategies are likely to emerge as well, such as funds that use a bitcoin holding to hedge against the performance of other investments.

The outlook for crypto: 'It's all still speculation'
Cargo theft incidents were up more than 57% in 2023 compared with the year prior, according to CargoNet, a Verisk company.

"I think we're at an all-time high. I haven't seen cargo theft at this level," Scott Cornell, the national practice transportation lead at Travelers, told CNBC.

Nearly $130 million worth of goods was stolen in 2023, but since reporting cargo theft is not mandatory, the amount is likely higher than this, according to CargoNet.

"Back in 2014, we were taking in 100 or so [reports] a month," Keith Lewis, vice president of operations at CargoNet, told CNBC. "Now, we're probably taking in about 220 plus a month of cargo theft events."

CargoNet's analysis of fourth-quarter 2023 data showed a 68% year-over-year increase compared with 2022.

"In the first 20 weeks of 2023, we saw 41% increase compared to the 20 weeks before that. It's definitely accelerating," Uber Freight CEO Lior Ron told CNBC.

Cargo theft refers to goods being stolen at any point in the transportation journey and incidents have reached unprecedented levels.

"More criminals are turning from traditional crime, [and] the reason why they're attracted to cargo theft is it's very, very low risk and very, very high reward," said Barry Conlon, founder and CEO of Overhaul, a supply chain integrity solutions company.

CargoNet ranks California, Texas and Florida as the top three hot spots in 2023, but the risk isn't limited to the coasts. More incidents are being reported at inland logistics hubs, including Louisville, Kentucky.
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A BYD Seagull small electric car is on display during the 20th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) Vcg | Visual China Group | Getty Images

DETROIT  Chinese automakers pose a growing threat to their American counterparts  even without selling directly to consumers in the U.S. market. Sales of China-made vehicles are rising at notable rates in Asia, Europe and other countries outside those continents. China recently reported exports of more than 5 million vehicles in 2023, topping Japan to become the top country for car exports in the world. That volume from well-established, government-owned companies like SAIC and Dongfeng, as well as newer players like BYD, Nio and others, has catapulted China from the sixth ranking to the top seed since 2020. It comes amid declining U.S. vehicle exports as companies such as General Motors have cut international operations. U.S. auto exports in 2022, the most recent data available, were down 25% from their peak in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. America  fourth globally in vehicle exports prior to 2020  ranked sixth in the world last year, falling behind No. 5 Mexico, No. 4 South Korea and No. 3 Germany, according to global consulting firm AlixPartners. "My No. 1 competitor is the Chinese carmakers," said Carlos Tavares, CEO of Chrysler parent Stellantis , during a virtual media roundtable Friday. "This is going to be a big fight. There is no other way for a global carmaker like Stellantis that is operating all over the world than to go head-on with the Chinese carmakers. There is no other way." The threat extends beyond export volumes. Chinese automakers have set a new standard for vehicle production and pricing. They're releasing new models in record times, and many are producing EVs efficiently and profitably  something that has eluded global automakers including America's GM and Ford Motor .

BYD dominance

Automotive experts have pointed to BYD Co. as a prime example of the rise of China's automakers. The company, backed by the Beijing government, last year topped Tesla to become the world's largest seller of EVs. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, whose company operates a large plant in China, has said Chinese automakers are the greatest competitors for his Texas-based company. "There's a lot of people who are out there who think that the top 10 car companies are going to be Tesla followed by nine Chinese car companies. I think they might not be wrong," Musk said at The New York Times' Dealbook conference in November. Rhodium Group estimates that BYD received approximately $4.3 billion in state support between 2015 and 2020, according to The Economist. Beijing has also offered subsidies to incentivize buyers of electric cars.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares holds a news conference after meeting with unions, in Turin, Italy, March 31, 2022. Massimo Pinca | Reuters

BYD has cracked a code for low-priced EVs that seemingly transcends borders: Its BYD Seagull, a tiny EV that starts at roughly $11,400, would significantly undercut U.S. EV prices at less than $15,000 even when factoring in America's 27.5% tariff on Chinese-made vehicles. "This is a car that scares me," said Kristin Dziczek, automotive policy advisor for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago's Detroit branch, during the organization's Automotive Insights Symposium last week. "How are we going to cut the price of EVs in half? China's already done it." Mathew Vachaparampil, CEO of auto teardown and consulting firm Caresoft Global, estimates BYD is making $1,500 off each Seagull unit sold. At worst, the company breaks even, he said. And the company is shipping more vehicles outside China: Overseas markets accounted for about 10% of BYD's more than 3 million sales last year, doubling that share from the the beginning of the year, according to Bernstein. "BYD has an unparalleled cost structure and product innovation ability, that stems from its high degree of vertical integration which will enable the company to thrive in the ongoing EV race in China and abroad," Bernstein analyst Eunice Lee said in an analyst note last week. "Despite growing pricing pressure in China, we expect the company's focus on overseas and premium segments will support 29% [compound annual growth rate] in earnings through 2025."

Growth gone global

Backed by local and federal governments, the growth of Chinese automakers began in their home country  taking share away from mandatory joint ventures between non-domestic automakers and Chinese companies. For example, GM's share of the Chinese market, including its joint ventures, has plummeted from roughly 15% in 2015 to 8.6% at the end of the third quarter last year. "What's going on in China at home? These [new energy vehicle] brands have become dominant," Mark Wakefield, global co-leader of the automotive and industrial practice at AlixPartners, said at the Chicago Fed's auto conference. "They were 26% [market share] a few years ago, up to more than 50% in 2022 and headed towards two-thirds by the end of the decade."

BYD's new luxury brand Yangwang is selling its first model, the U8, for more than 1 million yuan (US$160,000). CNBC | Evelyn Cheng

And the growth hasn't stayed home. Chinese companies have begun expanding into Mexico, Europe and elsewhere, Wakefield said. They've largely done so through cheap, relatively inexpensive models  some of which American automakers have given up on  as well as EVs, which experts view as an open market for the companies. Chinese companies accounted for 8% of Europe's all-electric vehicle sales as of September last year and could increase their share to 15% by 2025, according to the European Union. The EU believes Chinese EVs are undercutting the prices of local models by about 20% in the European market. The influx of Chinese EVs has spurred the European Union to launch government support for the industry. In Mexico, China-built vehicles with internal combustion engines increased from 0% market share to 20% of the country's light-duty vehicle sales over the past six years, according the Chicago Fed's Dziczek. "Mexico is the second-largest market for China-made vehicles other than Russia," she said. "They're going to be on our shores in Mexico in the not-too-distant future."

Coming to America

For decades, Chinese auto companies have said they will begin selling vehicles in the U.S. under their own brands, but none have succeeded. That's not to say China doesn't compete in the U.S. market. Aside from major supply chain ties, there are also a handful of auto brands owned by Chinese companies operating in the U.S., such as Lotus, Volvo (including its Polestar spin-off) and niche EV maker Karma. American companies, such as GM and Ford already, or plan to, manufacture some vehicles in China to be imported and sold in the U.S. GM imports its Buick Envision from China to the U.S., while Ford last year said it would import its forthcoming Lincoln Nautilus crossover from China. But as of yet, a U.S. driver can't easily buy a Dongfeng, BYD or other Chinese-made vehicle stateside.

2024 Lincoln Nautilus Ford
A town in Croatia is offering 13 cent homes in an effort to attract more people.

Forget a penny for your thoughts; what about 13 cents for a house in Croatia? Legrad, a town in northern Croatia, has been trying to get more people to settle in the area by offering houses for pennies. It's an initiative they started in 2018. The small town, with around 2,000 people, borders Hungary and has seen its population dwindle since the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian empire in 1918. In January, government officials announced another batch of houses is ready for sale at just 13 cents.

Legrad, Croatia has a population of around 2,000 people. Goran Safarek | Istock | Getty Images

To be eligible to buy one of the houses, applicants must be under 45 years old, in a marital or extramarital partnership, and have no criminal record.



Most notably, if you want to snag one of these low-cost homes, applicants can't already own property  though officials don't specify if that means in Croatia or anywhere else in the world. Local Croatian media outlet HRT reported that since the program started in 2018, there are more children today than there were five years ago, and as a result, they're even building a new daycare center. "A total of five houses ready for occupancy have been sold. Three families have already moved in, and what delights us is that all three families welcomed a new member during their move-in. This has increased the number of children in the daycare center," Ivan Sabolic, the mayor of Legrad, told HRT.

In 2021, Legrad put up 19 empty houses and abandoned construction sites for sale at the price of 1 kuna, Croatia's currency at the time. Seventeen were sold, according to Reuters. The houses were in various states of disrepair, so to help out, the municipality said it would pay $25,000 kuna (about $3,558) for any necessary renovations. For new residents who wanted to buy a privately owned home, the town offered to cover 20% of the price or up to 35,000 kuna (about $5,056). It's unclear if the town will offer the same incentives this time around. Croatia isn't the first country to take this kind of approach to bringing new life to their shrinking populations. Mussomeli, a town in Sicily, went viral for selling off deteriorating homes for 1 euro.

Mussomeli, Sicily, went viral for selling homes for 1 euro. Mickey Todiwala | CNBC Make It
ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods speaks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Week in San Francisco, California, on November 15, 2023.

Exxon Mobil filed a lawsuit against U.S. and Dutch activist investors in a bid to stop them from submitting climate proposals during the oil giant's annual shareholder meeting.

It marks a first for the U.S. oil major and is the latest step in an intensifying battle between companies and environmental campaigners.

The complaint was filed Sunday in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas against Massachusetts-based investment firm Arjuna Capital and Follow This, an Amsterdam-based activist investor group.

An Exxon Mobil win in the proceedings could have a chilling impact on future shareholder petitions.

The Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. financial regulator, has overseen a growing number of environmental and social shareholder proposals during the past two proxy seasons.

In an emailed statement, Exxon Mobil said, "the breakdown of the shareholder proposal process, one that allows proponents to advance their agendas through a flood of proposals, does not serve the interests of investors."

The company added, "We are simply asking the court to apply the SEC's proxy rules as written to stop this abuse and eliminate the significant resources required to address them."
Tanks belonging to Transneft, a Russian state-owned company that operates the country's oil pipelines, at the Ust-Luga oil terminal.

Oil prices rose Monday after Ukraine reportedly attacked a major Russia fuel terminal over the weekend, raising renewed concerns about supply disruptions.

The West Texas Intermediate futures contract for February gained $1.78, or 2.42%, to settle at $75.19 a barrel. The Brent contract for March rose $1.50, or 1.91%, to settle at $80.06 a barrel.

Ukrainian drones struck a major fuel terminal near St. Petersburg, a sources in Kyiv told the BBC and The Wall Street Journal. The Ust-Luga facility on the Baltic Sea exports 1.35 million barrels per day of crude oil, fuel and refined products, according to data from Kpler.

"The Ukrainian drone attack on the Baltic port raises the question: Is this going to be a policy decision by Ukrainians to attack Russian oil infrastructure? If that's the case, that's a problem," said Bob Yawger, managing director and energy futures strategist at Mizuho Americas.

The attack highlights the vulnerability of these facilities to drone strikes, not just in Russia but also elsewhere in the world particularly in the Middle East, said Andrew Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates.

"It's a pretty significant terminal they hit and if they continue to try to target Russian oil infrastructure that would be a game changer and that's what the market is pricing in here," said John Kilduff, a partner at Again Capital.



In the Middle East, meanwhile, several U.S. personnel are being evaluated for "traumatic brain injuries" after militants allied with Iran attacked an airbase in Iraq on Saturday with ballistic missiles and rockets, according to U.S. Central Command.

U.S. forces stationed in Iraq and Syria have repeatedly come under attack by Iran-allied militants since Israel's military operation in Gaza began. Houthi militants, also allied with Iran, have continued their attacks on shipping through the Red Sea, a crucial trade artery, despite U.S. airstrikes.

The attacks have stoked worries that the U.S. and Iran are getting drawn into a regional conflict that could disrupt oil supplies.

Libya's National Oil Corporation, meanwhile, resumed full production at the Sharara oilfield on Sunday after protests shut down output for two weeks. Sharara is one of Libya's largest oilfields with capacity to pump 300,000 barrels per day.

Traders have generally been more focused on the supply and demand outlook than geopolitical risk.

The International Energy Agency has a bearish forecast for 2024, projecting that production outside OPEC, particularly in the U.S., will rise by about 1.5 million barrels per day, more than covering global demand growth of 1.2 million barrels per day.

OPEC, on the other hand, has presented a stronger outlook with oil demand forecast to grow by 2.2 million barrels per day, while production outside OPEC will grow by 1.3 million barrels per day.

"Investors want to be bullish but tepid data and cautious narrative from policymakers keep them on the backfoot," Tamas Varga, an analyst with PVM Oil Associates, wrote in a note.
A woman (R) adjusts the Philippines flag before the 51st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)- Republic of Korea Ministerial Meeting in Singapore on August 3, 2018. Mohd Rasfan | Afp | Getty Images

Southeast Asia markets could see a turnaround in 2024 on the back of cheap valuations and potentially high economic growth, after losing some steam last year, according to Maybank. Improving growth, rising exports, a pick up in manufacturing and a better-than-expected outlook by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company last week all mean that Southeast Asia markets are poised for a better year, said Thilan Wickramasinghe, head of research for Singapore at Maybank Investment Banking Group. "Southeast Asia really is a bargain basement of markets, when it comes to valuations," Wickramasinghe told CNBC's "Street Signs Asia."

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The MSCI Southeast Asia index fell a little over 3% in 2023, compared with a more than 20% rise in the broader MSCI World index, whose top five constituents are U.S.-listed technology giants including Apple and Microsoft . The MSCI's Southeast Asia index was trading at about 13.21x its 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratio, according to data from MSCI, as of Dec. 29, compared with a 16.57x forward P/E for the MSCI World index. Forward P/E captures the value of an index based on its constituents' earnings.

U.S. recession won't hurt ASEAN
Sophia Bollag joined the San Francisco Chronicle as a politics reporter in 2022. She has covered state government from Sacramento since 2016 and has worked at The Sacramento Bee, The Associated Press and the Los Angeles Times. She grew up in the East Bay and graduated from Northwestern University, where she studied journalism and literature.

She can be reached at Sophia.Bollag@sfchronicle.com.
In just five years, remote work has gone from a fringe benefit to a sought-after privilege people are competing for.

The demand for remote jobs continues to outstrip supply: As of December 2023, remote jobs made up less than 10% of postings advertised on LinkedIn, down from a high of 20.6% in March 2022  even though close to half of jobseekers prefer remote roles.

Remote jobs won't disappear entirely, even if some become harder to find, Atlassian co-founder and co-CEO Scott Farquhar tells CNBC Make It. The Australian software company adopted a "Team Anywhere" policy in 2020 that allows employees to choose between remote, in-person or hybrid work.

Instead, Farquhar says the biggest change we'll see to remote work in 2024 is companies introducing stricter, more permanent guardrails around their remote or hybrid work arrangements.

"It will become increasingly untenable for people to sit in the middle with a foot in each camp  to tell employees, 'You have to come into the office 1-2 days a week,' without specifying which days or enforcing in-office attendance, and then at the same time, give employees who don't live close to the office permission to work from home," he explains.

More companies are moving to a hybrid structure to balance employees' demands for flexibility with employers' desire for office attendance, according to a new report from LinkedIn, which notes that hybrid job postings are overtaking remote job ads on its platform.

Regardless of the structure employers select, Farquhar anticipates more organizations will shift from the experimental, lenient phase of flexible working and make a clear commitment to a specific arrangement instead.

"I think more employers are realizing that it's not very productive to have some people in the office, some fully remote, and try to make it work where half of their team is on a Zoom call on a single screen in a conference room, and the other half is in person," says Farquhar.
Widely followed bank analyst Mike Mayo named Citigroup his top pick, saying he realized the embattled bank is under the influence of none other than Warren Buffett. Wells Fargo's Mayo sent a positive note on Citigroup after Reuters reported Friday that Buffett, whose conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway owns more than $2 billion worth of shares, told CEO Jane Fraser over a recent lunch to keep going with her reorganizing efforts. Buffett confirmed to Reuters that the lunch took place. The Omaha-based Berkshire bought about 55,000 shares of Citi in the beginning of 2022, making it the 11th biggest holding in its equity portfolio. The 93-year-old Oracle of Omaha hasn't publicly commented on the stake, and many, including Mayo, had speculated that the stock was bought by one of Buffett's investing managers. "Until now, it was unclear to us and many investors whether this Citi stake was really a 'Warren Buffett investment' vs. somebody else at his firm. So it seems that we are not alone," Mayo said in a note Monday. Other than the relatively small Citi stake, the Berkshire chairman and CEO exited many large bank stocks in the past few years, including U.S. Bancorp, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan. However, he has kept Bank of America as Berkshire's second-biggest holding only behind Apple. Buffett famously made a special deal to invest $5 billion in Bank of America in 2011 after the financial crisis. "I invited myself in, many years earlier, and they made a very decent deal for us. And I like Brian Moynihan enormously, and I just don't want to, I don't want to sell it," Buffett said in a CNBC interview in April 2023. This time is different? Earlier this month, Citigroup cut 10% of its workforce in a bid to boost the bank's results and stock price. Fraser announced a sweeping overhaul of the third-largest U.S. bank by assets in September. The company has been left behind by peers since the 2008 financial crisis as Fraser's predecessors couldn't get a handle on expenses and is the lowest valued among the six biggest U.S. banks. C 1Y mountain Citigroup Mayo said Buffett seems to support his belief that Citigroup's overhaul could make a significant difference this time around. "Leave it to the 'Oracle of Omaha' to keen in on the 1 of est. 12+ Citi restructurings that may work," Mayo said. "Warren Buffett supports the CEO's restructuring. If so, this is one more person who thinks this time is different." The analyst sees the stock doubling in price over the next three years. Mayo set his 12-month price target at $70, which represents a 35% upside from the stock's Friday close of $51.52. Shares of Citi gained more than 2% Monday. The stock climbed nearly 14% last year.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump leaves Trump Tower for Manhattan federal court for the second defamation trial against him, in New York City on Jan. 22, 2024.

The sex assault defamation trial of former President Donald Trump in New York was postponed Monday when a juror called in sick.

Trump's attorney Alina Habba told Judge Lewis Kaplan that she was also feeling feverish and that at least one of her parents had tested positive for Covid-19. Habba tested negative for the virus Monday morning, as did her co-counsel in the case, Michael Madaio, but Habba said her babysitter also has symptoms.

Kaplan called off the scheduled day of testimony after Trump and the plaintiff in the civil case, E. Jean Carroll, had both arrived at U.S. District Court in Manhattan. The judge made that decision after offering Habba the option of proceeding with eight jurors, but she declined to do so.

Despite that, Trump's ally, GOP House Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., later tweeted a response to news of the delay, calling it "blatant election interference!"

Trump, 77, and Carroll, 80, were in the courtroom when Kaplan said the trial would be postponed until Tuesday at the earliest. The postponement was extended later Monday to Wednesday.

Trump stood between Habba and Madaio, with none of them wearing a mask, as Kaplan agreed to the postponement.

The judge then brought in the remaining jurors to explain the delay.
KYIV, UKRAINE - 2024/01/17: A couple seen looking out at the city of Kyiv. (Photo by Sergei Chuzavkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Russia and Ukraine traded retaliatory strikes over the weekend after another Russian oil terminal was attacked on Sunday, as were the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk and nine Ukrainian regions.

Moscow accused Kyiv of launching a missile strike on a market in Donetsk city, killing at least 25 people and wounding 20 others, Russian officials said. Ukrainian armed forces operating in the region denied they had carried out the strike, stating that they "did not conduct any combat operations with means of destruction."

Elsewhere, a fire broke out at a terminal of Russia's largest liquefied natural gas producer Novatek on the Baltic Sea, a regional official said on Sunday, amid reports of drone sightings in the area. Several other Russian oil terminals have been targeted in recent days, in the Bryansk and Leningrad regions.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian forces shelled nine regions in the country on Sunday.
In just three years, the world has witnessed a "supercharged surge in extreme wealth," new data shows.

In the U.S. alone, billionaires are 46% richer than they were in 2020, while the three wealthiest men  Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Larry Ellison  have increased their net worth by 84%, a recent Oxfam report on global inequality found.

Yet, despite the fact that America ranks first as the richest nation in the world in terms of gross domestic product, 37.9 million Americans live in poverty, accounting for 11.5% of the total population, according to the latest report from the U.S. Census Bureau.

"We're witnessing the beginnings of a decade of division, with billions of people shouldering the economic shockwaves of pandemic, inflation and war, while billionaires' fortunes boom," said Oxfam International interim Executive Director Amitabh Behar.

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Oxfam also found that the five richest men globally have more than doubled their vast wealth since 2020. If current trends continue, the world will have its first trillionaire within a decade, but poverty won't be eradicated for another 229 years.

"We expect to see continued concentration of extreme wealth at the very top," added Rebecca Riddell, policy lead economic and racial justice at Oxfam.

There are, however, signs of progress, noted Steven Hamilton, assistant professor of economics at George Washington University.
Hangji in E China's Jiangsu reaches new heights as 'Toothbrush Capital of China'

People's Daily Online) 13:14, January 22, 2024

Photo shows a green and intelligent factory of Jiangsu Sanxiao Group Co., Ltd. in Hangji, east China's Jiangsu Province. (People's Daily Online/Gao Chao)

Hangji, a township in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province, produces 7.5 billion toothbrushes annually, dominating the domestic market with a share of over 80 percent and taking more than 35 percent of the global market.

It also holds a significant share of over 65 percent in the domestic market and more than 30 percent in the global market for hotel amenities.

Hangji has earned the titles of "Toothbrush Capital of China" and "Capital of Hotel Amenities of China."

Brands of locally produced toothbrushes are on display at a toothbrush museum in Hangji township, Yangzhou city, east China's Jiangsu Province. (People's Daily Online/Gao Chao)

Despite its small size of 40 square kilometers, Hangji is home to thousands of toothbrush manufacturers. It has a population of 45,000, of whom 25,000 are engaged in secondary industries.

"Through 40 years of hard work and entrepreneurship, Hangji has forged a distinctive path of development known for its widespread entrepreneurship and industry-driven prosperity," said Liu Rui, director of the economic development bureau of Hangji High-tech Industrial Development Zone.

Local toothbrush enterprises in Hangji have experienced a growth trajectory characterized by product development and brand establishment, eventually becoming industry standard setters.

During the reign of Emperor Daoguang (1821-1850) of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), a local farmer named Liu Wanxing pioneered toothbrush manufacturing in Hangji by using cow bones for handles and pig bristles for the brush.

In 1976, the first toothbrush factory was established in Hangji. During the 1980s, the township witnessed the emergence of nearly 10,000 toothbrush workshops.

In 1989, Jiangsu Sanxiao Group Co., Ltd, a toothbrush manufacturer, was founded in Hangji.

Sanxiao placed great emphasis on sales networks, ensuring that their new products were available in any county-level market across the country within seven days. By 1998, Sanxiao achieved sales exceeding 1 billion yuan ($139 million).

By leveraging the well-established local industrial chain, several toothbrush enterprises experienced rapid growth in Hangji. This attracted renowned domestic and foreign brands such as Liangmianzhen and Colgate to invest and establish factories in the area.

In 2003, Hangji contributed to the development of the national toothbrush standard. Of the seven companies involved in the drafting process, five were from Hangji.

In 2017, when updating the national standard, Hangji continued to play a significant role, with 12 out of the 21 participating units coming from the township.

According to Liu, standardization plays a crucial role in enhancing independent innovation capability, adjusting industrial structure, and transforming the economic development mode.

Currently, Hangji is home to 4,000 companies involved in the production and supporting industries of toothbrushes and hotel supplies, with an annual sales revenue exceeding 30 billion yuan.

A technician inspects machine injection effectiveness on a semi-automated production line at a toothbrush factory in Hangji township, Yangzhou city, east China's Jiangsu Province. (People's Daily Online/Gao Chao)

Liangmianzhen, a company originally from Liuzhou in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is not native to Hangji. However, the company's Hangji factory has the capacity to produce 2 billion small toothpaste tubes every year.

Hangji is the ideal choice for Liangmianzhen's large-scale production due to various factors such as market demand, advanced equipment, and availability of raw materials.

"The Yangtze River Delta, where Hangji is situated, offers a vast market for Liangmianzhen. The company's key customers, such as prominent domestic hotel groups, have their headquarters in Shanghai," explained Lan Jin, general manager of Liangmianzhen (Jiangsu) Industrial Co., Ltd.

Liangmianzhen makes half of its sales in the Yangtze River Delta region.

"Compared to Liuzhou, Yangzhou is closer to equipment manufacturers and raw material suppliers, allowing for convenient access within a radius of 200 to 300 kilometers," Lan added.

In the vicinity of Hangji, there are several enterprises that offer a range of hardware support including brushing machinery, precision molds, robot automation, and integrated application systems for robots.

Two livestream anchors promote products in the E-commerce Industrial Park in Hangji, Yangzhou city, east China's Jiangsu Province. (People's Daily Online/Gao Chao)

"Automated factories transform frontline workers from manual laborers into technical professionals. One person can manage more than 10 machines and coordinate their operations through the operating system," said Han Xiaotian, executive president of Jiangsu Sanxiao Group Co., Ltd.

Liangmianzhen has also made substantial efforts in this field.

"Previously, order processing involved manual splitting, which took up to 48 hours," Lan explained. "Now, by connecting with hotel systems, online orders are swiftly distributed to various departments within the system, allowing goods to be shipped within 72 hours."

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
The Safeway at 1335 Webster St. in San Francisco, which was to have shut down in March, will stay open until early next year. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle

The Fillmore District Safeway on Webster Street, which was slated to close in March, will instead stay open until early 2025 after extensive negotiations between the supermarket chain, the property owner and Mayor London Breed.

Breed visited the Safeway Monday morning along with Safeway representatives, and standing in front of the floral department, announced that the store would stay open nine months longer than originally planned.

This is the first Safeway I ever shopped in my whole at when they first opened the doors when I was 11 years old, Breed told the workers. We are grateful it is going to continue to be here.

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S.F. downtown exodus: Map shows every major retail closure since 2023

Breed said the extra time will give the city and property owner, Align Real Estate, more time to work on interim uses. Align eventually plans on building upward of 1,000 units on the 3.6-acre site, a redevelopment that will include retail.

The Webster Street Safeway is more than a grocery store  it serves as a space that brings together and builds community for the Fillmore neighborhood, which is home to many senior citizens and families, Breed said. I am pleased to share that we have come to an agreement that extends services at this Safeway location until next year.

She thanked Safeway for its willingness to engage in a collaborative discussion to lift up this neighborhoods needs now and in the future.

The store is the only full-service grocery store in the neighborhood. It also has a bank and a pharmacy and is a gathering place for residents, especially low-income seniors who live in the half-dozen affordable elderly housing complexes nearby.

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Safeway announced earlier this month that it would close in March. The store has struggled with rampant theft and other issues  including frequent car break-ins, assaults, loitering and illegal dumping  over the last few years.

Longtime Fillmore customers and residents have also expressed concerns with public safety in the area. As part of the sites extension of services, Mayor Breed has directed the San Francisco Police Department to commit additional resources at this location.

We have decided to extend the closing date to January 2025 to give the community and the City more time to establish a transition plan, Safeway said in a statement. Beyond the closure, we will continue to serve this community with our grocery delivery services and will work with our customers to transfer their prescriptions to another Safeway location or a location of their choice. We remain committed to serving San Francisco at our remaining 15 locations.

The reversal represents at least a temporary victory for Breed as her bid for reelection in November heats up. Despite having grown up in the neighborhood, Breed was criticized by some political adversaries, including Supervisor Dean Preston, for not taking a stronger public position against the store closing, instead initially focusing on the potential redevelopment of property, which she said would create much-needed housing.

The decision to keep the store open came a day before Fillmore residents were scheduled to hold a rally at the Safeway and the Board of Supervisors was set to vote on a resolution by Preston demanding that Safeway reconsider its decision. At the rally, community members and politicians are expected to demand that the Safeway owners involve the neighborhood in decisions about the propertys future, and that any future projects will include a grocery store on that site.

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As soon as we heard Safeways announcement to close in less than 60 days, we said clearly, and unequivocally  not here, not now, said Preston, who, according to a press release sent out Monday, will announce new legislation related to grocery store closures on Tuesday. I am thankful that Safeway has listened to the hundreds of community members who demanded they reverse plans to close a critical location to so many of our vulnerable community members.

Third Baptist Church Rev. Amos Brown said that pressure from the citys Black community  along with Breed and Preston  combined to put sufficient pressure on the supermarket chain.

It was a we thing, Brown said. Great applause should be given to Mayor Breed for supporting our appeal and negotiating with Safeway to create what would have put us into a food desert. Preston came to our NAACP meeting and introduced a resolution. But this success was born out of the womb of the community. We stood up for what rightly belongs to us.

Longtime resident and activist Mattie Scott said the delay would give us time to negotiate and get another store in there. We are glad to hear the news.

San Francisco State University Political Science Professor Jason McDaniels said neither the store closure  nor the subsequent decision to stay open until next January  would likely have much of a political impact at the polls in November.

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Most people are not paying attention to these things and those who are already have a firm opinion of who they are going to vote for, he said.
If you go

What: "The Little Mermaid" by Starz Theater Company/Turning Pointe Dance

When: 6 p.m. Friday, 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N. Nevada Ave.

Price: $17-$21, free 3 and younger but must sit on adult's lap; 719-255-8181, starztheater.org

Something else: American Sign Language access show, 1 p.m. Saturday
The magic money tree sometimes needs a little cultivation, which is precisely what Apples been doing for the last few years as it prepared for Vision Pro. Now, with Vision Pro pre-orders under way, it has built a billion-dollar business it didnt have before.

How many Vision Pro devices has Apple sold?

Estimates vary about sales. Before the official introduction last week, some experts speculated just 80,000 units would be made available. But during pre-order weekend, Apple analyst Ming Chi Kuo claimed Apple might have sold up to 180,000 units since the device was made available for pre-sale on Friday.

Vision Pro is a billion-dollar business

Kuos estimated 180,000 sales at $3,500 per unit means Vision Pro has already generated hundreds of millions of dollars to shore up Apples FYQ2 income.

During the year, Kuo expects Apple to move up to 500,000 units, which means the company has effectively added yet another billion-dollar business to its portfolio. Thats a good starting point as Apple plots a path to a lower-cost version in 2025.

Where is Vision Pro in the industry?

What that means in the context of the wider VR industry is interesting. The market is involves sales of roughly 8 million units a year. Apples already making a dent in its own category in year one, noted Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan. We think over time this is going to be a real game changer.

Order now, get Vision Pro inMarch

There are still weeks to go before the device arrives. It wont actually ship/be available in stores until February 2. If you pre-order a Vision Pro today, it's likely you wont receive it until March, or even later.

When will the product hit stores outside the US?

Kuo has claimed Apple is likely to expand availability outside the US before WWDC 2024 in June.

What about importing a Vision Pro?

Theres already a growing number of people trying to get hold of a Vision Pro outside the US. In China, people are paying twice as much for them on the grey market, and on eBay were seeing big prices appear.

Dont be too hasty on imports, however, as Apple has published a FAQ that warns the experience may be restricted, principally because voice input, App Store, purchases, and support are limited to US accounts. Some apps might also be US-only, and Zeiss lenses are also only available in the US.

What Apple thinks Vision Pro is for

In a video shared with Apple employees, Apple Vice Presidents Mike Rockwell and Alan Dye talked about where they anticipate the new product will be most useful.

"Its the closest thing to being there in person that you can possibly have, Rockwell told employees. "It changes the way you collaborate and is very different from videoconferencing as we know it.

Rockwell and Dye anticipate the systems will be used in medicine, engineering, and education. The company also has a team actively exploring enterprise and education implementations. Thats also why it is inevitable Apple will support MDM on the device.

Developer opportunity: A chance to build a brand

New Vision Pro customers are early adopters, so they wont precisely be a consumer crowd, but theyll want to stretch the envelope with their new device. Thats an opportunity.

Trust me, each time Apple introduces a new platform theres a fresh opportunity for new developers with original ideas to build big brands if they hit the nascent zeitgeist.

That limited chance usually declines as all the envelopes are stretched and the big developers climb aboard  but the chance is right there, right now on Vision Pro.

What about Xcode?

The new and stable visionOS SDK is available now in Xcode 15.2. The stable release follows months of testing and includes a simulator mode developers can use to test apps for compatibility when they dont have access to the hardware.

(Believe it or not, most developers live outside the US, so they cant test on hardware outside of Apples labs.)

How many apps are available?

Recent data from AppFigures claims there are 250+ native third-party apps available now  and the velocity of these releases is accelerating.

With a view on what will be a core market of professionals, Cisco, Webex and Zoom have introduced apps; Microsoft will offer Office; and Apple says around 1 million iOS and iPad OS apps will work quite happily in windows on the device.

Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube have not published Vision Pro apps, but you can access them using the browser in Vision Pro.

Some people should not use Vision Pro

Way back when all the Vision Pro speculation began, I warned of the potential impact these things might have on health. Apple warns that customers with some medical conditions should get advice before using Vision Pro as detailed here.

Winners and losers are on the block

The VR/AR industry Apple insists it isnt in (it likes to say it is exploring "spatial computing") has slowed to a crawl ever since Vision Pro was unveiled last summer.

Expectation pulled the oxygen from the business, and now Apple's hardare is here, we can expect more companies to emulate ByteDance and delay or cancel planned introductions in the space pending more business clarity.

How to get fitted for Vision Pro

Apple has developed a fitting solution that uses the camera on your iPhone to measure you for the appropriate headband. This isnt always 100% accurate, so the company is permitting free replacements of these components when you visit the Apple Store to get your device. Theres also a personal fitting service at Apple Stores, including a 25-minute demo to help customers get to grips with how to use Vision Pro.

How much does a Vision Pro headset cost to repair?

Put it this way, Apples most expensive repair for the product without AppleCare will set you back up to $2,399.

Apple Care Plus protection for Vision Pro costs $499, in exchange for which you get unlimited repairs and a replacement device while you wait for repair to happen.

Not to put too fine a point on it but its unlikely youll find an independent repair shop anywhere to fix these things, so if you plan to use them a lot, get AppleCare.

How much does Vision Pro weigh?

Vision Pro weighs 1.3 to 1.4 pounds, depending on what Light Seal and headband you use. This could become uncomfortable for some users after extensive use.

What is the battery life?

Youll get 2.5 hours of battery playback. However, you can use the device while the battery is charging, and you can also charge your battery from a portable power bank via USB-C.

Specifications we didnt know before

In the last week, Apple has confirmed several specifications that you can read about in full here.

Highlights include:

An M2 chip with an 8-core CPU (4 performance cores and 4 efficiency), a 10-core GPU, and a 16-core NPU. 16GB of unified memory.

Micro-OLED displays that support refresh rates of 90Hz, 96Hz, and 100Hz.

A stereoscopic 3D main camera system with an 18 mm, /2.00 aperture and 6.5 stereo megapixels.

Support for Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.

Six external cameras, four eye-tracking cameras, TrueDepth, LiDAR, and a range of sensors, including for ambient light.

Headset authentication by iris scan.

AirPlay to beam some of what you are experiencing in Vision Pro to other devices, such as iPhones or Apple TV (though only at 720p).

What Vision Pro accessories exist?

You can expect a range of accessories from third-party manufacturers at some point. Meanwhile, Apple sells the following accessories:

Travel Case: $199.

Spare batteries: $199.

ZEISS optical inserts: from $99.

Light Seal: $199. (A Light Seal cushion is available for $29). Apple has 25 different models of Light Seal, and if you plan on sharing Vision Pro with others you might need several.

Solo Knit Band: $99.

Dual Loop band: $99.

What storage sizes are available?

Apple is following its usual strategy in selling three Vision Pro models, distinguished by storage capacity. They are available as follows:

256GB  $3,499

512GB  $3,699

1TB  $3,899

There are two Vision Pro guided tour videos to watch

Apple has published two key videos to support the release. One is a guided tour of what the device is like to use  this runs 10 minutes and is worth a look. (The idea that your existing Panorama photos taken with an iPhone can be explored in a spatial way was interesting.) Apple CEO Tim Cook also shared a short video consisting of behind-the-scenes glances at how the Vision Pro is made.

Please follow me on Mastodon, or join me in the AppleHolics bar & grill and Apple Discussions groups on MeWe.
Whether you believe AI will be the salvation of humankind or the death of it, whether you think its little more than a plaything to while away your time or the surest way to get onto the fast track at work, youre going to use it someday. Maybe today. Maybe tomorrow. Maybe next week or next month. But one day, youll turn to it. And youll most likely be surprised at how helpful it can be, even in its earliest days.

For many business users, that means using Copilot, Microsofts umbrella name for a variety of AI products. There are already highly targeted Copilots for various Microsoft products, notably Copilot for Microsoft 365, which integrates with Microsoft Office apps like Word, Outlook, and OneNote. That Copilot is only available for business customers willing to pay a hefty $30 per user per month, essentially doubling the price of the Microsoft 365 E3 plan, for instance. Theres also a $20-per-month Copilot Pro subscription for individuals that offers integration with Office apps and priority access during peak times.

In this article, though, were going to give you tips about how to get the most out of the everyday, free version of Copilot, available from directly inside Windows, inside the Edge browser, inside Microsofts Bing search engine, and on the web for anyone using Windows or macOS, as long as they have a Microsoft account.

Know the Copilot basics

Before you start using Copilot, you need to understand exactly what it is  and what it isnt. Its whats called generative AI, or genAI for short. Its called that because it can create, or generate, different kinds of content  notably text, images, and videos. In this article, well primarily cover text-based content.

For text generation, Copilot uses a large language model (LLM) to do its work. Its based on the GPT-4 model, developed by a company called OpenAI in which Microsoft is the largest investor. Its trained on massive amounts of articles, books, web pages, and other publicly available text. Based on that training, it can respond to questions, summarize articles and documents, write documents from scratch, and much more.

Like its more famous cousin, OpenAIs ChatGPT, Copilot works as a chatbot. You ask it a question or feed it a prompt, and it generates a response. You can ask a series of follow-up queries in an ongoing conversation, or start over with a new query.

Using Copilot can initially be somewhat eerie, because its responses are often human-like. But dont be fooled  it has no human intelligence. So when asking it for information, give it very precise detailed information about what you want, and be as concise as possible. Microsoft also recommends that you avoid using relative terms, like yesterday or tomorrow, and pronouns, like it and they. Instead, use specifics, such as an exact date or a persons name.

Three ways to access Copilot

Copilot is a shift-shaping genAI tool, and the general, free version is available in several ways, including directly from Windows, in the Edge browser, and as a web tool in Bing or on its own.

Here are the ways to access it and when to use each.

Copilot in Windows

If you use Windows 11, Copilot for Windows (still in preview) is always just a click away  theres an icon of it just to the right of the search box. (If you dont see the icon, try updating to the latest version of Windows 11. If youre using Windows in a business or educational setting, your organization may not yet have enabled Copilot.)

As I write this, the Copilot preview in Windows 10 is available only for those who are Windows Insiders and have opted in to get the newest preview updates. Eventually, though, it will make its way to all Windows 10 users.

Click the Copilot icon and Copilot appears in a right-hand pane. The pane stays open no matter what youre doing in Windows  running an app, switching between windows, or just looking at the desktop. It always stays the same size and takes up the entire right side of your screen. So running it this way is your best bet if you run it regularly and use it throughout the day.

IDG Once you launch Copilot in Windows, its pane stays open on the right side of your screen until you close it. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Copilot in Edge

Microsoft Edge browser users have an easy way to use Copilot  click the Copilot icon at the upper right of Edges screen, and a Copilot pane slides into place on the right side of the screen.

IDG Heres the Copilot pane in Edge. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Type your request into the Ask me anything search box at the bottom of the Copilot pane, or else click one of the suggestions for things you can do with Copilot in the middle of the pane. Youll find these suggestions sometimes useful and sometimes not. Generate page summary is certainly helpful. But Watch romance movies in 1990s? Not so much.

The Copilot pane in Edge is part of what Microsoft calls the Edge sidebar. Other icons running vertically down the right side of Edge let you launch different panes in the same location, such as an Outlook pane or the Windows Action Center pane.

As of this writing, Copilot in Edge has more built-in features than it does in Windows, Bing, or the standalone web tool. For instance, Copilot in Edge has an option for summarizing the web page youre on, and another for generating a first draft of a document, an email, or other text  features well cover later in this story. Those features may eventually make their way to other versions of Copilot, but for now, Edge offers the most full-featured option.

Copilot in Bing and on the web

A simple way to use Copilot is to head to Microsofts Bing search website and click the Ask Bing Chat button in the center of the page. That launches Copilot.

Copilot also has a dedicated web page at https://copilot.microsoft.com. Microsoft says it works only in Edge, Chrome, or other Chromium-based browsers and only on Windows and macOS; however, we found that it also worked in Firefox on macOS. Youll need to sign in with a Microsoft ID to use it.

IDG Copilot has a dedicated web page, but you need a Microsoft account to use it. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Now that you know the Copilot basics, lets explore some ways to put it to its best use.

1. Choose the right chat mode

Copilot isnt one size fits all. To a certain extent, you can customize the responses it gives you. A little more than halfway up its pane you can choose what Microsoft calls a conversation style. Youll get a lot more out of it if you choose the right one for the task at hand.

IDG For better results, choose the right chat mode for the task.

Here are the three styles, and what each is best suited for:

More Creative. Microsoft says this mode will furnish elaborate and imaginative responses, presenting information in a more extensive and creative manner. Normally, this isnt the mode youll use for work  Microsoft says its best for things like coming up with fun pet names or writing short stories. (Ive published a number of short stories in literary magazines, and I recommend that you never use Copilot to write one. When Ive tested this ability, the results have ranged from execrable to dull-as-dirt to painfully idiotic and cliched.) However, if youre looking to do something such as jumpstarting a first draft of marketing copy, give this mode a try.

More Precise. Think of this as Copilots Just-the-facts-maam mode. Copilot will get right to the point, eliminate unnecessary words and information, and deliver the facts youre looking for to the best of its ability. Its ideal for tracking down clearly definable information that requires no context.

More Balanced. As the name implies, this mode strikes a balance between More Creative and More Precise modes. It delivers facts, but with additional information and context if you need it. According to Microsoft, If youre planning a trip or looking for product recommendations, this style will be helpful.

2. Create a web page summary

Life is too short to spend it trying to dig your way through all the text on a web page to find the few nuggets of useful information buried there. So use Copilot to summarize the contents of the web page youre currently on in Edge. Click the Copilot icon at the upper right of the screen, then click the Generate page summary button in the Copilot pane. The summary will appear.

IDG Copilot creating a summary of a web page. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Note that you may need to give Copilot permission before it will summarize page contents. Click the vertical three-dot icon at the upper right of the Copilot pane, then choose Notification and app settings and set the Allow Microsoft to access page content toggle to on.

Like other responses that Copilot generates, page summaries are not saved after the current session. So if you want to save the summary, click the Export icon underneath it (it looks like a download arrow). You can save it as a Word document, as a PDF, or as plain text. If you prefer, click the Copy button to its left to put it into your Clipboard.

If you dont use Edge, you can get similar results in Copilot in Bing or on the web by asking it to tell you the key points of an article or web page and pasting in the URL, although Edges Generate page summary feature seems to return more comprehensive results.

3. Generate a first draft

For many people, the hardest part of writing is getting down a first draft. Facing an empty screen waiting to be filled with words so frightens many people that they can become paralyzed and put off working on it.

Copilot can help by generating a first draft for you. Its best suited for documents that arent overly long or complex  memos, emails, marketing pitches, summaries, and similar material. It doesnt work well on sizable reports, especially those that include other kinds of materials like spreadsheets and graphics.

To do it, launch the Copilot pane in Edge and click the Compose tab at the top. A screen appears with the following sections:

IDG Copilot can help you generate a first draft of many kinds of documents. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Write about: Heres where you describe the draft you want written. Make sure to include the purpose of what youre writing, what its audience will be, what you would like emphasized, and as much detail as possible. The more information you give Copilot, the better the results will be. Youve got a maximum length of 2000 characters here, so you wont need to be succinct. Dont fret about exact wording  Copilot will do that for you. Just describe what you want done.

Tone: Here you can choose a tone for the draft: Professional, Casual, Enthusiastic, Informational, or Funny. (I recommend staying away from Funny. Copilot is good at many things, but being funny isnt one of them.) If none of these choices describe the tone you want, click the + button and type in the tone youd like.

Format: Will this be an email? A blog post? Something best suited for a paragraph format? A bulleted list of ideas? Choose that in this section.

Length: Youve got three choices: Short, Medium, or Long. The length of the generated draft varies according not just to whether you select Short, Medium, or Long, but also the tone you select  Enthusiastic, for example, creates significantly longer drafts than Professional. When I asked Copilot to compose a draft of a marketing document, the short professional draft was 100 words, the medium professional draft was 150 words, and the long professional draft was 250 words. The short enthusiastic draft was 250 words, the medium enthusiastic draft was 285 words, and the long enthusiastic draft was 375 words.

Once youve made your choices, click the Generate draft button. Copilot gets to work and writes a draft that it puts into the Preview area. After it creates the draft, you can copy it by clicking the Copy icon at the bottom of the Preview area.

If youre not happy with the draft, click the Re-generate draft icon (two circular arrows) at the bottom right of the Preview area to have Copilot create a different draft.

Copilot will also suggest other pieces of information you might want to add to the draft. Just underneath the Preview area it shows prompts that might be as broad as asking if you want more details added or as granular as asking if you want to add the dimensions of a product for which youre writing a marketing pitch.

4. Use images in conversations with Copilot

Copilot is a text-based chatbot, so naturally you would expect all your interactions with it to be text-based. But thats not the case. You can combine text with images in your conversations with it, which, when used correctly, can be a quite powerful tool.

The simplest example is getting information about a person, place, or thing. To test out the feature, I copied a photo of myself available on the internet into a conversation with Copilot, and said to Copilot, Tell me about this person. It correctly identified me and summarized basic information about me that is available widely on the internet. It did a surprisingly good job at this, including that I have frequently written about the ethical and social aspects of artificial intelligence, and noted a title of one of my recent columns.

IDG You can include images in your conversations with Copilot. (Click image to enlarge it.)

I also pasted a photo of Dubai into a conversation with Copilot and asked it to Tell me about this place. Again, it did an excellent job of identifying the city and providing a great deal of information in a simple, coherent way.

To use an image in a conversation with Copilot, first find the image you want to use. It can be on your computer or on the internet. Next, type in what you want Copilot to do with the image  in my examples, to provide information about it. Then click the small icon at the bottom left of the text-input area. If you hover your mouse over it, the text reads Add an image. When you do that, a text box pops up. You can paste in the image or a link to the image, or instead click the Upload from this device link and then navigate to where the image is on your device.

After youve inserted the image, press the Enter key, and Copilot does the search.

Note that if you use Copilot from the Edge sidebar, you can take a screenshot and insert it into your Copilot conversation. To do it, click the Add a screenshot icon (a pair of scissors) at the bottom left of the Copilot input area. When you click it, youll be able to take a screenshot of a portion of your screen or the entire screen, which then gets automatically placed in the input area.

5. Dont be fooled by Copilots hallucinations

Copilot appears to be an all-seeing, all-knowing font of information, able to pull up the most arcane facts on request. Thats not the case, though. In truth, its more like a not-always-reliable, self-taught polymath who, when confronted with a question he cant answer, makes something up in order to appear more knowledgeable than he really is.

Thats because Copilot, like all genAI, is subject to what AI researchers call hallucinations but the rest of us call lies. Every genAI lies, often with serious consequences. Take the example of Michael Cohen, Donald Trumps former lawyer and fixer, who gave his own lawyer a group of legal citations to be used to convince a judge to free Cohen from the courts oversight. Cohen used Googles Bard AI to find them. But the citations were bogus  Bard hallucinated them.

Similarly, a lawyer named Steven Schwartz suing the airline Avianca for a client submitted a 10-page brief with more than half-a-dozen citations to a judge in support of the suit. The lawyer had used ChatGPT, the brains behind Copilot, to find the citations. ChatGPT hallucinated every single one of them. The New York Times has found a number of instances in which Bing Chat  the previous name for Copilot  hallucinated incorrect information it attributed to the Times.

Dont let this happen to you. When you use Copilot, double-check important facts and citations before using them. Typically, genAI doesnt lie about easy-to-find straightforward facts. Rather, its more often arcane facts or highly specialized information like law cases that you need to be concerned about. So make sure to verify if Copilots so-called facts are really facts. Copilot typically includes citations for where it found information. Follow the link to each citation  you may find links to nowhere. You can use a search engine to double-check arcane facts as well.

Whatever you do, dont ask Copilot to check those facts, because theres a reasonable chance Copilot will say theyre true. Thats what happened to Schwartz. He asked ChatGPT to verify that the fake citations were real, and ChatGPT said they were. Instead, use a search engine and double-check the information yourself.

6. Check for Copilot plagiarism

Copilot sometimes has the opposite problem to hallucinations. Rather than make things up, it copies text verbatim  or nearly verbatim  from material its been trained on. That can be copyright infringement, whose use carries legal consequences. And even if there are no legal consequences, if youre found violating copyrighted information at your workplace, you could be disciplined or be fired.

Its difficult to know how often Copilot does this. But a New York Times lawsuit against Microsoft and ChatGPT cites several instances of ChatGPT, the brains behind Copilot, plagiarizing its articles, including a Pulitzer-Prize-winning, five-part 18-month investigation into predatory lending practices in New York Citys taxi industry. The suit charges: OpenAI had no role in the creation of this content, yet with minimal prompting, will recite large portions of it verbatim.

It can be tough to know when Copilots output plagiarizes copyrighted text. However, there are things you can do to reduce the risk. First, pay attention to the tone of Copilots answers to your prompts. Any sections that sound different from the rest or from its previous answers could signal a problem. Rewrite that section if you have any suspicions.

If you come across text you suspect might be plagiarized, copy a section of it into your search engine and do a search. That can find original text that Copilot has plagiarized. Also, follow the citation links at the bottom of Copilots response to you, read through them and see whether any text has been plagiarized.

You can also try using any of the many websites that claim they check for plagiarism. Ive tried a number of them and have been underwhelmed by their usefulness. Theyre generally good at finding obvious plagiarism  every one I tried was able to say with certainty that Lincolns Gettysburg Address was written by a human, not a genAI like Copilot. But youd be able to do the same thing on your own. However, if you want to use them, here are a few free ones to try: GPTKit, ZeroGPT, and Unicheck, which is available for free only for personal use. This article lists more, including a number of for-pay ones.

Finally, dont use Copilots answer verbatim and pass it off as your own. Consider its output a first draft, not a finished piece of work.

Note that Microsoft indemnifies users of paid versions of Microsofts commercial Copilot services (such as Copilot for Microsoft 365) and Bing Chat Enterprise against claims of copyright infringement. However, that offer doesnt extend to the free versions of Copilot covered in this article.

7. Remove the Copilot in Windows icon from the taskbar

Making better use of Copilot means not just knowing all the things it can do, but also the things it cant. That way, you wont waste your time wrangling with it.

Microsoft designed Copilot in Windows to function in two ways: to generate answers and other text (as youd use it in Edge or Bing) and to do basic tasks in Windows itself, such as changing your desktop background. While it works perfectly fine for the former function, its integration with Windows has proven to be a bust.

When it was released in late September, it could do only the simplest of simple tasks  a handful of things like changing Windows to dark mode. By mid-December, nearly three months later, it had dramatically regressed, and now youre lucky if you can get it to do anything at all. For instance, if you ask it to turn on dark mode, one of the few things it used to be able to do, it starts by saying, Im sorry for any confusion, but as an AI developed by Microsoft, I dont have the ability to change the settings on your device. Then it does an internet search and tells you how you can make the change yourself. Theres no need for AI to do that  you can just search the internet yourself.

If youd like to register your displeasure about this, you can remove the Copilot in Windows icon from your taskbar. Right-click the taskbar, select Taskbar settings, and from the screen that appears, move the slider on Copilot from On to Off. Dont worry, you can still access it if youd like. To do it, press the Windows key + C.

IDG Heres where you can remove the Copilot icon from your taskbar. You can still run it by pressing Win + C. (Click image to enlarge it.)

Bonus tip: Tap into Microsofts Image Creator

Most people use Copilot and other genAI tools to create text-based content  summaries, articles, and marketing materials, among other things. But genAI also has the power to create images. Microsoft has an excellent AI image-creation tool, which it calls Image Creator, based on OpenAIs DALL-E 3 image-generation model.

You can get to it by putting its icon on Edges sidebar, then clicking the icon. That way, itll be in easy reach whenever you want to use it. To do it:

Click the + button at the bottom of the vertical row of icons running down the right side of Edge. In the Discover more area, click By Microsoft, then scroll down and click Image Creator from Designer. In the text box at the top of the screen, type in the image you want created  for example, Eiffel Tower being scaled by an alien in climbing gear. Image Creator will create multiple versions of the image you asked for. Click any of the images and it fills up the rest of your Bing screen. From here you can save it, share it, download it, and customize it.

IDG Microsoft Image Creator in action. (Click image to enlarge it.)

If you want the Image Creator icon to stay permanently on the sidebar, right-click it and select Pin to sidebar. If you dont do that, the icon will vanish after you close the pane.

Note for Mac users: The Image Creator by Designer app isnt available in Edge on macOS, but a very similar app called Designer (Preview) is. You can find it by clicking the plus sign at the bottom of the Edge sidebar and searching for designer.
Mayor London Breed, left, during a news conference with Police Chief Bill Scott at Alamo Square in San Francisco on Oct. 17, 2023. She has raised $1 million for Proposition E  which expands polices power  $525,000 of it came from a new committee launched by mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie, the nonprofit founder who is challenging Breed in November. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle

Wealthy donors continue to rally behind Mayor London Breeds March ballot measure to expand the power of San Francisco police  and the contributions to the measure grew dramatically in recent days after one of Breeds political rivals began his own fundraising push.

Supporters of Proposition E have reported raising more than $1 million so far in filings with the citys Ethics Commission. More than half that amount  $525,000  came from a new committee started by mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie, the nonprofit founder who is challenging Breed in November. The rest of the funds were reported by Breeds committee.

Among the notable donors to Luries Prop. E committee were his brother, the artist Ari Lurie, who gave $250,000; investor Katie Schwab Paige, who gave $100,000; and investor Jonathan Adam Gans, who gave $50,000. Breeds committee recently reported contributions from Twitch cofounder Emmett Shear, who gave $49,000; and venture capitalist Jeremy Liew, who gave $50,000. Ripple CEO Chris Larsen and tech investor Ron Conway previously gave a combined $350,000.

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Daniel Lurie announced Jan. 16 that he would start raising money on his own to support Prop. E, which would reduce police officers administrative reporting requirements, make it easier for them to use surveillance cameras and drones, and broaden the circumstances in which they can conduct car chases. The measure would also place new limits on the Police Commission, the policy-setting body for the Police Department.

More Information More Information What Proposition E would do Proposition E on San Franciscos March ballot would make changes including the following: Reduce the circumstances under which police officers must document using force, limiting it to incidents in which an officer injures a person, uses a gun or points a gun at a person.

Expand vehicle chases, allowing them when an officer suspects a person has committed or is likely to commit a felony or violent misdemeanor.

Allow police to use drones to aid in vehicle pursuits and active criminal investigations.

Allow the police chief to install surveillance cameras in public without Police Commission approval.

Allow facial recognition technology in both drones and surveillance cameras.

Allow police to use other surveillance technology for a year without Board of Supervisors approval. Source: Ballot Simplification Committee

Breed put Prop. E on the March 5 ballot as part of a push to increase support for law enforcement at a time when shes under political pressure to make more progress on addressing the citys frequent property crimes and widespread public drug scenes. Her November reelection bid is expected to be tough, as shes already being challenged by Lurie and Supervisor Ahsha Safai, and other prominent candidates may still join the race as well.

But Lurie, the founder of the anti-poverty organization Tipping Point Community and an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, complicated Breeds plans for Prop. E by establishing his own fundraising committee to support the effort. The committee will give Lurie a chance to increase his name recognition with voters since ballot measures dont have the same individual contribution limits as candidate campaigns, so donors can give as much money as they want. Lurie has also indicated that he will continue to criticize Breed while campaigning for Prop. E by arguing she should have implemented the ideas in the measure much sooner.

Lurie previously called Prop. E one of many steps that should have been implemented long ago but said it was one we must stand up and take now to tackle the public safety crisis in our city.

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After years and years of replay, throwback song lyrics kind of melt into the music losing their meaning. This is why you can still find breathing, functioning humans in the wild who don't realize "Semi-Charmed Life" is about crystal meth despite the words "doing crystal meth" being belted out mid-song. We're totally okay with singing along to complete nonsense as long as it sounds good. However, there are times when that nonsense turns out to have a good explanation -- it's just 100% pure bananas ...

4 "Life on Mars?" is Bowie's Revenge Parody of "My Way" David Bowie's songs are always a bit hard to pin down, depending as they do largely on which character (who may very well be a space alien) he was playing when he recorded them, but "Life on Mars?" is pretty weird even for a Bowie song. With its sweeping piano and orchestral arrangement and lyrics describing everything from movie watching to police brutality (but not, notably, any aliens), the BBC called it "a cross between a Broadway musical and a Salvador Dali painting." Believe it or not, that was pretty different from what Bowie was doing at the time. That's because it's not entirely his song. Now that it's been pointed out to you, you'll never not notice that the song uses the exact same chords as the Sinatra-popularized "My Way," and it's not because Bowie was a flagrant plagiarist. "My Way" was actually the result of the publishers of a song called "Comme d'Habitude" approaching English-language songwriters to translate the French hit, and Bowie was actually the first person tasked with the challenge. Unfortunately, he went and Bowie'd it up. Advertisement He'd gotten it into his head that the song should be sung by a then-popular English performer named Anthony Newley, who had a sort of "sad clown" schtick, and the lyrics of his take on the tune, "Even a Fool Learns to Love," reflect that perspective. The song's publishers said, "Obviously, we're not doing that," eventually going with Paul Anka's anthemic "My Way," which everyone, including 21st-century Bowie, can agree was the right call. Advertisement Advertisement At the time, though, Bowie was a little sore about the whole thing -- "My Way" even took its title from a line of his song -- so he decided to go ahead with his own version except make it a lot better first. It should be noted that neither "My Way" nor "Even a Fool Learns to Love" appear to have anything lyrically to do with "Comme d'Habitude," which is about a vaguely unhappy relationship, so it's not clear if the oddball "Life on Mars?" is a dig at anyone or just Bowie doing his thing, which is the same answer to a lot of questions about David Bowie.

3 "Mr. Roboto" Was Part of a Bizarre Rock Opera Unless you're the thankfully rare under-40 Styx superfan, you probably know "Mr. Roboto" as 1) the nonsensical song Buster Bluth listens to in that Volkswagen commercial  Advertisement Advertisement  and 2) the reason you know the phrase "domo arigato." Upon closer examination, it seems like it's trying to tell a story about a man disguised as a robot, but it leaves a lot of questions unanswered: Why? Is the narrator Mr. Roboto, or is he the one thanking Mr. Roboto? Who the dickens is Kilroy? It turns out all of this is explained in the rock opera Kilroy Was Here, an ambitious multimedia project/fever dream about a rock star imprisoned after rock music is outlawed that was conceived, birthed, and beloved by Styx keyboardist Dennis DeYoung and absolutely no one else. The rest of the band wanted no part in what DeYoung envisioned as a combination short film and live stage show with every member playing a character ... but DeYoung was responsible for most of Styx's financial success and also probably had incriminating photos of them, so he was getting his way. Advertisement It's not a format that lends itself to radio -- if you've ever heard one song from a musical without any background on the story, you're familiar with the violent confusion it often causes. "Mr. Roboto" specifically wasn't intended to be a single, but this was still the rock music business, and focus groups picked it, so it was foisted upon a baffled future populace. At the time, the Kilroy Was Here album was actually quite popular, and the accompanying live tour was poised to be a success. The short film was made with special effects by no less a legend than Stan Winston of later Terminator and Jurassic Park fame, costumes were sewn, and lines were learned; everything seemed ready to go. Advertisement Advertisement The problem was that all that stuff was really expensive, and DeYoung insisted on smaller venues so audiences could really get the personal "Tipper Gore but with robots" experience, so it wasn't very profitable. It also remained really stupid. Guitarist Tommy Shaw actually ended the tour -- and ultimately the band -- prematurely by destroying his guitar and storming offstage. As a result, everyone forgot about Kilroy Was Here until Volkswagen needed to show off Tony Hale's sweet moves.

3 Thom Yorke Really is a "Creep" Contrary to its title and the assertions of its narrator, there's nothing really creepy about "Creep." We have no idea what kind of relationship the narrator has with the object of his affection. They apparently frequent the same places, so maybe she's a classmate or coworker or friend of a friend, but their only documented interaction involves difficulty with eye contact. His creepiness is all in his head, as far as we can tell. Sure, she's running out the door there at the end, but who knows why? Maybe Beyonce walked by. Maybe someone farted. It's not necessarily because she spotted the squinty dork who's been following her around. Advertisement Advertisement Except that's exactly what Thom Yorke apparently did to the woman who inspired "Creep." According to guitarist Jonny Greenwood, while Yorke was in college, he became obsessed with a woman he never even spoke to. "He just followed her for a couple of days or a week or whatever," he said, which obviously translates to a minimum of three months. With that context, it's honestly pretty sneaky of Yorke to phrase the song the way he did, referencing the time "when you were here before," as if she's the one who just showed up. That's a real "it happens to be where Josh lives" move. Advertisement Even, well, creepier, this woman still has no idea who she is. Yorke never worked up the nerve to say hi, even when she showed up to one of their concerts a few years later. "He was very shaken up after that," Greenwood said. So if you happened to attend a Radiohead concert in Exeter in the early '90s, congratulations! Thom Yorke might have considered turning you into a skin suit. Advertisement
In mid-December, the United States Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) hosted its annual Department of Defense Intelligence Information System Worldwide conference, known as DoDIIS. The event brought together various Department of Defense (DoD) and DIA department heads, leaders from within the intelligence community, leaders from the Five Eyes (FVEY) community comprised of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Those in attendance also included flag officers from the ranks of the various US uniformed services who spoke to industry on the theme of Chaos to Clarity  Leveraging Emerging Technologies. Chief among the concerns of this august community was the ever-growing threat to security posed by China.

While talk of next-generation technologies and the advent of artificial intelligence was present, my main takeaway was that China should be a major concern within the context of global strategic competition for all types of industry, especially those involved in critical infrastructure, defense and intelligence, and the supply chain.

In the cybersecurity game, chaos is Chinas ally

Chaos is Chinas ally in its global competition with the United States and other Western nations; indeed, chaos presents opportunities for disruption. The director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) spoke of the rising challenge posed by China in the realm of artificial intelligence, asserting that the commercial capabilities of AI will help such adversary nation-states complete the dynamic analysis necessary to create commercial-off-the-shelf attack solutions.

The discussion also touched on Chinas appetite for garnering intellectual property secrets from the US and other Western nations. Many have accused China of having purloined the secrets related to the F-22 fighter jet as it went about creating its own aircraft. Indeed, Chinas J-20 stealth fighter is an example of how China uses what it gathers. This targeting of the US military sector has been well documented, with indictments, convictions, and sentencing of individuals with access to US classified information who have opted to share the same with Chinese intelligence officials.

China targets military intelligence through vendors

We dont have to go back far to see the concerted effort of China to target Western aviation via vendors, including the targeting of GE Aerospace and other aerospace companies. Then there is the continuous targeting and luring of former NATO fighter pilots to China to teach flying.

Some of these former pilots have found themselves on the wrong side of prosecutions for unauthorized sharing of controlled technologies. Some countries have resorted to issuing warnings, as was the case with both the United Kingdom and Germany. The two reminded their former military pilots that they are duty-bound to protect the secrets they learned while in their respective air forces.
A Russia-based group, Midnight Blizzard, also known as Nobelium, has hacked Microsofts employee emails, including those of senior staff, Microsoft revealed in a recent blog post.

Beginning in late November 2023, the threat actor used a password spray attack to compromise a legacy non-production test tenant account and gain a foothold, and then used the accounts permissions to access a very small percentage of Microsoft corporate email accounts, including members of our senior leadership team and employees in our cybersecurity, legal, and other functions, and exfiltrated some emails and attached documents, explained the blog post.

This is not the first time Midnight Blizzard or Nobelium has targeted the company. Last year, Microsoft had accused it of using social engineering to carry out a cyberattack on Microsoft Teams.

Though the attack was initiated in late November 2023, it was detected only on January 12, 2024. The incidence shows, like in earlier such cases, that even the most sophisticated cyber security systems are far from being adequate. The fact that the intrusion began in late November 2023 and was detected only around mid-January 2024, as per Microsofts blog post, makes such incidents even more alarming, said Deepak Kumar, the founder analyst and chief research officer at BMNxt Business and Market Advisory.

A weak link in security?

Microsoft stressed that the attack was not because of a vulnerability in its products or services. To date, there is no evidence that the threat actor had any access to customer environments, production systems, source code, or AI systems. We will notify customers if any action is required, the company blog post read.

However, analysts believe that possibly not enough was done to secure the email accounts of senior leadership. The breach also hints at the possibility that best practices, such as zero-trust security, are not necessarily being applied to email accounts of senior leadership, who have been the primary targets in this case, said Kumar. He added that a weak link the security chain might have led to the compromise of the employee emails.
Cybersecurity researchers and threat analysts are high on the list of valuable targets for nation-state advanced persistent threat (APT) actors. Not only can information security personnel provide access to non-public intelligence regarding malware and mitigations, but they can also become attack vectors through which the security firms themselves could become victims.

The methods through which nation-state actors have attempted to lure security researchers into downloading malware or engaging in other forms of compromise are varied and over the past 18 months, the following campaigns have come to light:

A government-backed North Korean entity employed several means to target security researchers working on vulnerability research and development at different companies and organizations, including creating fake X (formerly Twitter) profiles and blogs to establish credibility with researchers before seeking to collaborate on research.

An unknown threat actor created phony GitHub accounts from non-existent and legitimate cybersecurity companies to lure information security professionals.

A suspected North Korean group created fake LinkedIn accounts, posing as recruiters to lure cybersecurity professionals. The threat actors used social media sites like X to build rapport with their targets, sometimes carrying on months-long conversations in a bid to ultimately send them malicious files containing a zero-day exploit.

Now, SentinelLabs has issued a report about a new test campaign by ScarCruft, a suspected North Korean APT group, likely targeting consumers of threat intelligence such as cybersecurity professionals. In collaboration with North Korean media firm NK News, SentinelLabs observed a persistent information-gathering campaign targeting experts in North Korean affairs from South Koreas academic sector and a news organization focused on North Korea.

With this targeting, ScarCruft, in a way, continues to fulfill its primary objective of gathering strategic intelligence, SentinelLabs Senior Threat Researcher Aleksandar Milenkoski, one of the reports authors, tells CSO. In my eyes, that enables the advisory to gain a better understanding of how the international community, especially the West, perceived development in North Korea. And ultimately, this helps aid their decision-making processes.

Planning stage malware used public threat research report

SentinelLabs also retrieved malware that it believes is currently in the planning and testing phases of ScarCrufts development cycle, which the threat actors will likely use in future campaigns. The malware includes a spectrum of shellcode variants that deliver RokRAT public tooling and two oversized LNK files, created by Windows automatically when users open files, named inteligence.lnk and news.lnk. RokRAT malware focuses on running additional payloads and data exfiltration. This malware uses as a decoy document a public technical threat research report on North Korean threat actor Kimsuky, a group that shares characteristics with ScarCruft. The Korean language report came from Genians, a South Korean cybersecurity company. Given the reports technical content, the LNK file names, and ScarCrufts use of decoys relevant to the targeted individuals, we suspect ScarCruft has been planning phishing campaigns on recent developments in the North Korean cyber threat landscape, targeting audiences consuming threat intelligence reports, SentinelLabs report concludes.

DPRK threat actors have targeted infosec professionals in the past as well, predominantly through social engineering attacks, Milenkoski says. But we definitely observed, for the first time, the use of threat research reports as decoys.
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.
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.
SARATOGA SPRINGS - With the history of Saratoga Springs within its walls , and staff and customers who are more akin to family, the Olde Bryan Inn is so much more than a popular dining destination.

Diners looking for a great meal and drink often flock to the Olde Bryan Inn, located at 123 Maple Ave. in Saratoga Springs. It has been a popular bar and restaurant for more than four decades.

The building started out as a stone house, built in 1826 by John Bryan. Original limestone from the house is still visible, as well as the three original fireplaces from the home, which are now popular spots for guests to sit and enjoy a cozy meal and drinks.

The house remained a single-family home in the Bryan family until the 1900s. In 1925, it was purchased by the LaMountain family, and a brick addition to the house was built. It then became Burnhams Hand Laundry, which operated until 1954, when the building was purchased by the Veitch family. The Veitchs lived in the home until 1979, when it was purchased by Dave Powers and Joe Wilkinson, who intended to turn it into an inn. In 1981, Steve Sullivan joined the partnership with Powers and Wilkinson and together they ran the Olde Bryan Inn.

The restaurant started out with a smaller menu, mostly pub food items, and over the years has grown to include all kinds of foods and specials.

Executive chef John Capelli says the restaurant has a great family atmosphere, not only between the employees, but with all of the customers as well.

Most important to me, is the community involvement, Capelli said. We do so many fun things with the community, we do a soup kitchen every week, code Blue, Rise, we just gave 1,500 free meals for the community on Thanksgiving.

Johnny Kosek started working at the inn when he was 19, now at 63, he has been a cook and general manager. He also previously worked at Powers and Sullivans other business, Longfellows in Saratoga Springs, before it closed and he came back to the Olde Bryan Inn as manager. He also gives historic tours of the building to local second grade classes each spring, and shows them artifacts hes found around the building and property.

This house was built on the original tavern that was here built by Alexander Bryan, and his son John built this house, said Kosek. Alexander Bryan was the innkeeper, and Ive read stories about how he used to take people in, and he was very big on hospitality, used to let people stay with him even if they had no money.

Kosek said he is not sure if its an energy that has always been a part of the property.

The Veitch family was like that, the mother used to bring in the kids and play music and there was always a drink for anyone who wanted to stay here, Kosek said. So now, over the 45 years that weve been here, weve sort of continued that trend, being very welcoming. We love to see a clean plate, theres nothing better.

The Olde Bryan Inn is also known to have had its share of ghost sightings over the years. Kosek says that compared to the earlier days of the restaurant, they have quieted down quite a bit, that maybe the ghosts have gotten used to the building being a restaurant, and enjoy all of the people who come there. Some people are more in-tune to ghosts he said.

Over the years our clientele has just grown astronomically, Kosek said.

The Daily Gazette recently spoke with John Kosek about The Olde Bryan Inn

Question: What are some of the most popular dishes that you serve?

Answer: Some people just come in for appetizers and lite faire, and then we have our steaks and prime rib and filets, our sauteed dishes. We do a jambalaya dish, fettuccine, fish we do haddock, and salmon, the salmon is very popular. Our most popular thing is our prime rib sandwich, which we run out of every night. We take prime rib, slice it, grill it, and serve with onions and peppers and mushrooms, provolone and swiss on it and serve it with a cup of French onion soup to dip it in. People call ahead to make sure that we have it, because we do sell out.

Q: As far as reservations go, are they required? Recommended?

A: We do take walk-ins, but if you have a larger party its good to have a reservation, we recommend that. Its always nice to come in and have a drink at the bar or by the fire and wait for a table, so either way. If theres a time-concern you should call ahead, and Resy is the system that we use, people can go online and make reservations that way too

Q: What are some of your favorite things about running this place?

I love giving the tours, and talking about the history of this place. I love getting to see people who Ive gotten to know over the years. We really have a great staff, and they are more like a family, some of our servers have been here 10, 15 years. Everyone gets to know everyone like a family, kind of like Cheers, where everyone knows your name. Its important to build up a relationship with people.

Q: What could an average person expect to spend at Olde Bryan Inn?

A: Lunch is around $25 a person with a non-alcoholic drink and for dinner an entree and a non-alcoholic drink and either an appetizer or a dessert would be around $35 a person

Q: How would you describe the atmosphere at Olde Bryan Inn?

Its warm, welcoming, and I think people feel at ease here. Its like youre coming home. Because of the buildings age, its something thats been around for such a long time, people feel comfortable here. A lot of people like to come out and be a part of things here.

Q: Why should someone who hasnt been here before consider coming?

A: Its just a really great place, with great food and great people. A lot of people come in because they heard about us from a friend, and then they keep coming back. We love the community, we've always got a great meal for you, come sit by a nice fire, and have a nice time.
She was hardly a great Prime Minister, let alone a decent public speaker  yet Theresa May is about to join the multi-millionaires club.

Despite still being a serving MP, May found time in the last financial year to the end of March 2023 to amass assets of 1.54 million, according to newly released figures.

Since then, shes grossed around 500,000 or so from speaking engagements, thereby smashing through the 2 million barrier in earnings  and thats before her 86,000 MPs salary.

She picked up 220,000 for delivering speeches in India and Israel in September and October and shes also bagged a 66,000 advance for her book Abuse Of Power.

Despite still being a serving MP, May found time in the last financial year to the end of March 2023 to amass assets of 1.54 million

May picked up 220,000 for delivering speeches in India and Israel in September and October

As for Liz Truss, she may have lasted only 49 days as PM but she, too, is coining the cash while working as an MP  300,000 of it to be precise.

They are both also dipping into the annual 115,000 Public Duty Costs Allowance, designed to help former PMs run their office, to which they are of course entitled.

So far, May has claimed 280,000 of it, and Truss 23,000. Nice work if you can get it!

Bye bye, baronness?

There was a call last week from former Lord Speaker Baroness DSouza for more peers to step down to free up space on the red leather benches of the Upper House.

This is the same DSouza, 79, who as Lord Speaker said taxpayers should not begrudge the 4,000 she claimed for flowers in her office and 1,200 on a trip to the opera.

Perhaps its time for her to practise what she preaches and stand down.

Were Labour MPs right to invoke the spirt of Mary Poppins as they advocated a nanny state solution to deal with the obesity crisis?

Mary Poppins famously urged a spoonful of sugar.

Prediction of the week

Former Culture Secretary and Mail columnist Nadine Dorries says: Im calling it now.

'The plan is to install David Cameron as next leader of the party following defeat in the General Election.

Tricky, as hes in the House of Lords. But he could renounce his peerage and move into a safe seat  if there are any left after the next election.

Cameron could renounce his peerage and move into a safe seat  if there are any left after the next election

After the One Nation group of Tory MPs rebelled over Rwanda, defending the right of European judges to meddle in deportation orders and scupper attempts to stop boats crossing the Channel, one wag was overheard saying in the Commons chamber: Which one nation do they represent? France?

They must be off their Eds

Just a few weeks ago, the LibDems were planning for an eruption of Ed-mania in their election campaign, expecting a similar level of enthusiasm for the Partys leader to that briefly engendered by Nick Clegg after the first TV debate in the 2010 election.

Sir Ed Daveys party war-gamed a range of potential scenarios at an away day in a London hotel last month.

What a difference a few weeks makes. After his failure to apologise for his lamentable failure over the Post Office scandal, there is now talk of an internal coup that could see him forced out before the general election.

Sir Ed Daveys party war-gamed a range of potential scenarios at an away day in a London hotel last month

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle will host a moving ceremony in Parliament tomorrow to mark the Holocaust.

There will be the lighting of candles and testimonies from survivors of the Holocaust and genocides in Rwanda and Darfur.

Hoyle tells me: It is important that we listen to their brave testimonies so that we learn the lessons of the past.

Idea of the week

Tory MP Duncan Baker, a former Norfolk postmaster, says: Take the knighthood away from LibDem leader Sir Ed Davey and give it to the real-life Alan Bates.
Should Rishi Sunak confound the opinion polls and remain in Downing Street while Donald Trump regains the White House, wouldn't Boris Johnson be the ideal candidate as Rishi's ambassador in Washington?

If Keir Starmer triumphs he might have a harder time placating a resurgent president. Prospective foreign secretary David Lammy once said: 'The man is a racist.

The man has Ku Klux members in his inner team. The man thinks it is OK to have protesting Nazis on the streets.' Yvette Cooper, a likely home secretary, warned of the 'dangers' of Trump 'whipping up hatred and prejudice'.

Trump doesn't forget such slights. Starmer could confound by dispatching Donald's BFF Nigel Farage as envoy.

Yvette Cooper, a likely home secretary, warned of the 'dangers' of Trump 'whipping up hatred and prejudice'. Trump doesn't forget such slights

Former prime minister Boris Johnson speaks during the Global Soft Power Summit, at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London, in March 2023

Rishi Sunak waves to members of the media before entering 10 Downing Street after delivering his first speech as prime minister in London, on October 25, 2022

If the BBC's Nick Robinson can muddy the waters for Boris in relation to Trump he will.

Reviewing Boris's Mail column lauding The Donald, Robinson slyly whispers: 'You may remember that Boris Johnson wasn't always that polite about Donald Trump. In fact he was extremely rude about him in previous times when he said he was unfit to be president.'

Clearly Robinson thinks people shouldn't be able to change their minds. He will be hoping that the BBC, desperate to stamp out any perception of bias, doesn't change its mind about him in the anticipated reshuffle of Today programme presenters.

Dannii Minogue's fling with her X Factor boss Simon Cowell clearly riled judge Sharon Osbourne, who said the couple were 'all over each other' before a live show.

'They were, like, canoodling. She was not really a woman's woman,' Sharon says of Dannii.

'She is a man eater. They were giggling and he had his arms around her, whispering. The music starts and I look at her and grabbed her hand. I was digging my nails in. I threw water over Louis Walsh. Who would I throw water over today? Dannii? I wouldn't waste the water. I am such a bitch.' Miaow.

X Factor judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Cole, Dannii Minogue, Louis Walsh

Might the King, currently out of commission, regret asking Parliament for a law change to promote Princess Anne and Prince Edward without removing Harry and Andrew?

With William taking time out to care for Kate and Edward today off to St Helena, that leaves only Camilla and Anne able to act as counsellors of state. Should they be rendered hors de combat he'd have to, in extremis, call on either Harry or Andrew.

Bowing out of the Republican nomination race, Ron DeSantis profoundly announces: 'Winston Churchill once remarked that "success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts".'

Awkwardly, according to The International Churchill Society, Winston never said the words. They've instead been traced back to a 1938 Budweiser beer advert.

Actor Larry Dann, fondly remembered as Sgt Alec Peters in The Bill, recalls his final appearance in the ITV police soap: 'I went upstairs for a pencil and didn't come down.' Shades of Paul Henry's Benny. He popped out of the Crossroads motel for a spanner and wasn't seen for a year.
Opposition to the Rwanda policy was opened in the Lords by the bloke whose shifting legal advice took us into the Iraq war. Lord Goldsmith KC (Lab) was aghast that Rwanda might be 'unsafe' for illegal immigrants.

Bomber Goldsmith, whose war helped create the migrant crisis, is now worried about safety? Magnificent.

The debate, called on a procedural technicality, was a classic of spluttering snootery. Peers' pomposity mixed with disingenuousness about their motives, some light racism and a drawling distaste for the public's support for the Rwanda deal.

Lady Chakrabarti (Lab), a Corbyn moll now so pukka she could be on Downton Abbey, doubted Rishi Sunak understood public opinion. Their lordships were just as entitled to gauge voters' views, she averred. Lord Goldsmith, rumoured to have ambitions to serve in any Starmer Cabinet, insisted he was speaking not as a Labour peer but as chairman of the International Agreements Committee, a newish Lords body.

Lord Goldsmith KC (Lab), pictured, was aghast that Rwanda might be 'unsafe' for illegal immigrants

Lady Chakrabarti (Lab), pictured, a Corbyn moll now so pukka she could be on Downton Abbey, doubted Rishi Sunak understood public opinion

He and his pals, mostly opposition peers, had produced a very critical report about Rwanda. They had now grabbed time in the chamber to wail their disapproval. The debate was largely symbolic. Lord Winston's moustache, large and inky, quivered crossly at some of the constitutional atrocities described by Lord Goldsmith.

Telly star Lord Winston (Lab) himself barely moved but that 'tache of his was hopping about like a hunted mink.

Lord Anderson of Ipswich (Crossbencher) called the setting-up of this committee 'a rare constitutional highlight' of recent years. Lord Anderson's late father, Eric, was headmaster of Eton. The old man might have been horrified by such greasing.

The Government resorted to its Bill  which states Rwanda is safe  after the supreme court found otherwise. The ruling stopped any deportation flights to Africa. Clever-clogs Goldsmith whispered that it was 'constitutionally inappropriate for Parliament to overturn a finding of fact by the Supreme Court'. Hang on. It was an opinion, not a fact.

Goldsmith and others were appalled that parliamentarians should be expected to decide Rwanda was safe. But, er, it was okay for his pals in the Supreme Court to do so? Lord Alton (Crossbencher) fretted that insufficient 'respect' was being shown to the mouldering boobies of the Supreme Court.

Lord Truscott (Ind), a fan of the Kremlin, watched from the steps of the throne. Near him lurked an ancient Labour grunt Lord Snape, who may or may not be related to Professor Severus Snape. Peter Mandelson arranged his limbs as a Persian cat will settle itself in a sun spot. A Labour backbencher tiptoed past Mandelson's back in terror.

Lord Winston's (pictured) moustache, large and inky, quivered crossly at some of the constitutional atrocities described by Lord Goldsmith

The Upper House (pictured at the state opening in November) debated the bill today

A rare speech pro the Government came from Lord Howell (Con) who noted that some postmasters might argue that our own country's justice system was hardly 'safe'. Good point! But Lord Purvis of Tweed (Lib Dem), dapper as an Edwardian barber, waxed indignant about Rwanda. He had been there once and was, he claimed, 'monitored and spied on'. More fool them for thinking such a twerpish little Herbert mattered.

Lord Carlile, the Crossbencher who has accused Mr Sunak of totalitarianism, spoke of the Goldsmith committee as though it was a court of law, not a bunch of self-polishing parliamentary hacks. I lost count of how often one lawyer told another he was 'distinguished'. Manic Remainer Lord Kerr used the term 'refoulement' and made it sound like a gooseberry mousse.

Lady Kingsmill (Lab) and an Australian woman from the Greens said, basically, that Rwanda was too backward to cope with important matters such as this. Lady Lister (Lab) worried about the 'mental health' of asylum seekers.

Lord Balfe (Con) argued that Rwanda might not be a great deterrent because the illegal migrants seemed to have oodles of money and would just try again. People-smuggling was more lucrative than making chapatis, continued the slightly dotty Balfe.

He ended by observing that having ruined Iraq, 'we've got to rebuild the countries of the Middle East'. I don't think he was intending to be rude to Lord Goldsmith, but he certainly succeeded.
Do you feel like you're dressing like a trendy member of Gen Z?

You might be giving yourself away as a millennial, born between 1981 and 1996, without even realizing it.

TikTok content creators explain the major giveaways you're a millennial instead of Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012), from how you wear your socks to the shape of your nails.

While you might appreciate your classic style, these small, trendy fixes could make you look a little younger.

TikTok content creator Chloe Baffert explained that 'long, oval nails and clearly fake diamond earrings are dead' to Gen Z, calling it an 'awakening for all of us' millennials

Commenters said they would never stop getting oval manicures and joked that Gen Z was obsessed with hating on millennial style

Rethink your go-to manicure

TikTok content creator Chloe Baffert proclaimed, 'My fellow millennials, I'm here with a groundbreaking update. Long, oval nails and clearly fake diamond earrings are dead,' calling it an 'awakening for all of us.'

The New York City-based content creator who's the head of merchandising at re-sale website Poshmark, explained that 'squoval' or square oval nails are the look now.

However, not everyone agreed.

'I'm Gen Z and oval nails are very much in idk (I don't know) what you're on about,' one person wrote.

Another joked: 'Gen Z's Roman Empire is the millennial life.'

Someone else declared, 'I will never go back to square nails. Sorry but they make everyone look like they have stubby fingers.'

Comedian Heather McMahan was especially offended by the observation and responded to the video.

'So, what do you want me to do? This is how I live! I'm not going back to the short square because that's not who I am anymore,' she declared.

Stop showing skin in your Chelsea boots

Content creator Montserrat Varela explained there was a millennial way to wear Chelsea boots as well as a 'modern way.'

According to the image consultant who is based in Germany, the 'dated way to wear them' is by showing 'that little bit of skin between the hem of the pant and the beginning of the shoe,' which is unflattering for most body shapes and outdated.

She also suggested not rolling the hem of the pant or wearing skinny jeans with Chelsea boots.

Content creator Montserrat Varela explained there's a millennial way to wear Chelsea boots as well as a 'modern way'

The image consultant suggested swapping leather leggings for a leather blazer to wear with your Chelsea boots for a young, fresh look

The video quickly went viral, with plenty of commenters weighing in.

'I've gotten on board with the straight leg jeans but you'll never convince me black leggings don't look great,' a millennial commented, as another wrote, 'I literally could not care if I look outdated.'

Others had issue with the skinny jean slander, writing: 'Ok but I'm curvy and straight leg jeans just make me look even bigger.'

Another said: 'You will pry skinny jeans out of my cold dead millennial hands.'

One commenter argued: 'The thing is Chelsea boots only look good with skinny jeans.'

Ditch your leggings

Leather leggings are over, according to Montserrat, as the personal stylist says the style was in five years ago.

Instead of leggings or skinny jeans, she suggested straight leg jeans and explained: 'It's very important to cover that little bit of skin.'

She continued that the boots needed to be taller or the pants longer.

Alternatively, women could wear tights or socks underneath.

Many commenters believed it was more flattering to wear the 'outdated' style of skinny jeans tucked into Chelsea boots, instead of straight jeans over them

To get the injection of leather that the leggings would bring, she suggested a jacket or blazer in the material.

'This is going to be very flattering and very modern,' Montserrat, who regularly makes videos about easy ways to update millennial outfits to make them feel more modern, promised.

In fact, leggings are out entirely according to Gen Z and have been replaced by flared leggings (better known as yoga pants to millennials).

Start showing off your socks

Socks are another giveaway, according to Australian fitness influencer Phoebe Parsons, who said the it's 'exactly how to tell the difference between a millennial and Gen Z just by looking at their feet.'

'Gen Z exclusively wears their socks up while millennials still wear ankle socks,' the millennial said in the viral TikTok, revealing her own bare ankles.

A commenter wrote, 'Millennials all wore their socks up when they were kids,' as another pointed out, 'If they'd been as aggressively bullied over the smallest hint of sock as we were, theyd never dare.'

Australian fitness influencer Phoebe Parsons showed 'exactly how to tell the difference between a millennial and Gen Z just by looking at their feet'

To make her point, Phoebe showed off her own super low socks that weren't visible with her sneakers on

Plenty of millennials in the comments took issue with the pulled up socks, joking in the comments that the footwear wouldn't be the giveaway

'Socks up remind me of when my mom would dress me as a child. It makes me feel like a small child,' another commenter agreed.

'My face tells everyone I'm a 40 yr old Millennial no one is gonna be fooled by my sock choice,' a popular comment read.

On X (formerly Twitter) the reaction was much the same, as one person tweeted, 'Can a young person please explain the current "socks situation" to me, an elder millennial. K, thx. No show socks are out, yes? What do wear instead? And how? So many questions.'

A fellow millennial shut it down when they replied, 'Children ain't gonna tell me what socks I can wear. Tube socks were never cute, kiddos.'
January 22, 2024: After Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022, Ukraines NATO neighbors, especially Poland and the three smaller Baltic States were the first to send weapons and munitions. These nations used lots of imported munitions which could not be exported without permission from the foreign manufacturer. Poland, however, had become a developer and manufacturer of weapons, and so was able to send locally developed Warmate UAV munitions immediately.

Poland completed development of Warmate in 2017 and the Polish military ordered a thousand Warmate UAVs at a cost of about $28,000 each. Developed and made in Poland, Warmate is delivered as a system package. Each one consists of ten 4 kg Warmate UAVs together with ground controllers, maintenance, and training material. The first hundred Warmate systems went to Polish Special Forces and the new territorial defense units. The remainder of the Warmate order has now been delivered.

Unlike similar small UAVs, Warmate can use an explosive warhead as an expendable cruise missile type weapon. Normally Warmate is used for surveillance and can be reused dozens of times. Warmate is carried and launched, with a pneumatic assist from its box-like storage container. The electric motor gives Warmate a top speed of 150 kilometers an hour/41 meters a second. Endurance is 30-50 minutes and normal altitude is 300-500 meters. Range is line of sight and 10-12 kilometers from the operator. The control and video transfer signal is encrypted and Warmate can operate autonomously along a preprogrammed route using GPS with a backup unjammable INS/Inertial Guidance System to deal with jamming.

Warmate can operate in combat mode by adding a 300 gram warhead. There are several types of warhead: fragmentation, with fragments deadly up to 10 meters, armor piercing able to penetrate up to 120mm of armor and thermobaric/fuel air explosive. While useful against armored or unarmored vehicles, Warmate would be most useful against snipers or other targets that are a danger and can quickly move if spotted. The fragmentation warhead could be highly effective because Warmate could be flown through a window cave/bunker entrance and kill everyone in a room. Warmate could also disrupt an ambush.

The idea of UAVs used as mini-cruise missiles isnt new. Israel and American troops have been using such loitering munitions for years. Israel has Harpy and the Americans began with Switchblade in 2009. This was a one kilogram expendable/used only once UAV that can be equipped with explosives. The Switchblade is launched from its shipping and storage tube, at which point wings flip out, a battery powered propeller starts spinning and a vidcam begins broadcasting images to the controller. The Switchblade is operated using the same gear the larger two kg Raven UAV employs. A complete Switchblade system containing a missile, container, and controller weighs 5.5 kg. Switchblade was very popular with troops in Afghanistan and with Special Operations Command/ SOCOM in all sorts of places they wont discuss in detail. Switchblade was followed by an improved version as well as a larger second generation LMAMS UAV.

After Russia attacked Ukraine in 2022, Poland provided neighbor Ukraine with some Warmate systems for use against Russian forces. Warmate performed quite well against the Russians. Warmate proved very hard to detect and destroy in flight. That was because if used for an attack, shooting down a small target like Warmate, coming in at 41 meters a second, was very difficult. The Russians had effective electronic warfare systems for remotely controlled UAVs but were not able to use them effective against Warmate, even in attack mode. Warmate is cost effective and very cheap to produce, especially in light of the Ukraine experience.
Want to guarantee you have a star-studded New York Fashion Week experience, even if you're not hitting the runway?

With fashion shows spread out all over New York City from February 9 through 14, it's hard to decide on where to stop for a quick cocktail or post-show meal.

Some of the below restaurants are quite literally fashionista approved, as NYFW partnered with some of the most iconic NYC dining destinations to offer up curated menus and the ability to win tickets to a show.

To celebrate the impending fashion season, FEMAIL rounded up a few of the best New York Fashion Week dining and nightlife destinations - from a swanky 1831 townhouse that serves up inventive, it-girl approved martinis, to Taylor Swift's girls' night go-to, Temple Bar, where guests can enjoy 'caviar bumps.'

Temple Bar

Temple Bar is most famous for offering up $20 'caviar bumps,' when diners put a dollop of the pricey fish eggs on their fist and lick it off as a way to celebrate a wild night out

Taylor Swift is a fan of this moody, dimly-lit bar with speakeasy vibes and a stellar cocktail list, including a whole collection of inventive martinis. The pop star enjoyed a girls' night out with pal Sophie Turner at the hidden-away lounge in NoHo.

Temple Bar has a discreet vibe that makes it entirely possible a celebrity will be quietly sipping a martini at the table right next to you. Velvet drapes and leather banquettes give the celeb-favorite bar an edge.

Temple Bar is most famous for offering up $20 'caviar bumps,' when diners put a dollop of the pricey fish eggs on their fist and lick it off as a way to celebrate a wild night out.

Taylor and Sophie aren't the only celebrity fans - Emily Ratajkowski and Cara Delevingne are regulars, as well as fashionistas like Anna Taylor-Joy, Sienna Miller, and Nicky Hilton.

For New York Fashion Week, Temple Bar is pulling out all the stops, and diners can enjoy the famed martinis - like the olive oil martini or the banana option - paired with caviar slides with creme fraiche, half a dozen oysters with caviar, or a full caviar service with all the trimmings.

Jean's

Before the clubsteraunt's official opening, Jean's hosted a fashion week dinner for Frame, cementing itself as an A-list approved restaurant when Gisele Bundchen hit the restaurant

This farm-to-table, new American Noho dining destination is already a hit with fashionistas after opening its doors in October.

Max Chodorow, the son of famed restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow, opened it up in the former home of Butter, which was previously a celeb haven in its own right (and a favorite with Blair Waldorf on Gossip Girl).

Before the clubsteraunt's official opening, Jean's hosted a fashion week dinner for Frame, cementing itself as an A-list approved restaurant when Gisele Bundchen hit the restaurant in an oversized denim jacket sans pants.

Eckhaus Latta also celebrated fashion week at Jean's, and the restaurant's Instagram has its own highlight of 'fits people wear to party the night away - so dress to impress.

Even the Yeah Yeah Yeahs got in on the buzz, performing at J. Crew party for a crowd of fashion folks.

But it's not just about the fashion - the food is equally memorable, with small booth tables heaped full of French fries and burgers thanks to Ashwin Deshmukh, who's also a managing partner at the can't miss vegan restaurant Superiority Burger.

Diners can end the night with an oversized chocolate chip cookie paired with a shot of milk for a sugar high.

Jac's on Bond

The buzzy hot spot complete with a pool table is from the team behind Ray's, another downtown locale beloved by celebrities

The swanky spot inside an 1831 townhouse is tucked away on a cobblestone street in Noho and is the coziest way to hide away (although there might be an A-lister nearby).

The downtown locale is already a favorite with the fashion set, even hosting an afterparty for Rodarte.

The buzzy hot spot, complete with a pool table, is from the team behind Ray's, another downtown locale beloved by celebrities.

The cocktails are as inventive as the aesthetic, which is somewhere between a lounge, buzzy bar, and restaurant.

Try the Pretty Vacant, made with chili oil mezcal, spiced pair and elote, or the Caprese Martini with a dash of balsamic vinegar.

Gigi Hadid, who lives nearby in a luxury Noho apartment, has been spotted at the luxe lounge, as well as Famke Jannssen and Trevor Noah.

Ray's Bar

Visitors are sure to spot a celebrity at this starry nightlife destination owned by Succession star Nick Braun, who played the infamous Cousin Greg

With locations in both the Greenpoint neighborhood in Brooklyn and on the Lower East Side in Manhattan, visitors are sure to spot a celebrity at this starry nightlife destination owned by Succession star Nick Braun, who played the infamous Cousin Greg.

Justin Theroux is a big supporter of Ray's and has been known to pop behind the bar to serve drinks.

With a more laid-back interior than others on this list (think dive bar-inspired, including a jukebox and wood-paneled walls), it's perfect for a night out, with a line winding around the block. Stars like Dua Lipa and Lady Gaga agree.

Unsurprisingly, Ray's gets the official NYFW seal of approval and will be serving up specialty cocktail from the shag carpeted basement all week long. Alternatively, the bar serves up Miller High Life and other go-to dive bar drinks.

Emilio's Ballato

Taylor Swift and Blake Lively are big fans of this Italian red sauce joint with long lines wrapping around the block to get a table

Taylor Swift, Sophie Turner, Brittany Mahomes, and Blake Lively enjoyed a girls' night at the Italian establishment

Justin Bieber and Rihanna also frequent the A-list approved, exclusive restaurant

This old school red sauce joint in Soho has long been a favorite with celebrities - so expect to see plenty of A-listers inside during NYFW.

Because of its celeb clientele, it's hard to get a reservation, leading to a long line outside as people hope to try the signature veal parmigiana - or enjoy a star sighting.

Taylor Swift, Sophie Turner, Brittany Mahomes, and Blake Lively enjoyed a girls' night at the Italian establishment.

Justin Bieber and Rihanna are also fans (their pictures are on the walls as proof).

The owner's son, Emilio Vitolo Jr, previously dated Katie Holmes and was spotted with Zoe Kravitz before getting engaged to influencer Sammy Piccininni.

Anto Korean Steakhouse

A Louis Vuitton chest opens up to reveal caviar, oysters, duck, and wagyu beef starting at $180 per person

Megan Fox dined at this upscale Korean Steakhouse to celebrate her new book Pretty Boys are Poisonous and Paula Abdul stopped by to commemorate her new Boradway show.

Now, they're launching a luxurious new dining experience for only 10 guests at the executive chef's counter.

But the most dazzling development is their Louis Vuitton premium experience for a truly memorable evening.

An LV chest opens up to reveal caviar, oysters, duck, and wagyu beef starting at $180 per person.

The Polo Bar

A whole slew of all-stars have dined at Ralph Lauren's preppy establishment, including Taylor Swift , Meghan Markle, and Serena Williams

The Polo Bar has been a hot spot since it opened in 2015, and it's still just as star-studded and difficult get into.

Once you secure a reservation at this Instagrammable destination, expect to see A-listers aplenty, especially during fashion week.

A whole slew of all-stars have dined at Ralph Lauren's preppy establishment, including Taylor Swift, Meghan Markle, and Serena Williams.

It's also the ultimate celebrity date night destination for celebrities, including George and Amal Clooney, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, and Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra.

Don't expect model off-duty laid-back attire, as there's a strict dress code. No athleisure, hoodies or jeans are allowed.

Meduza Mediterrania

This Meatpacking District restaurant opened in September and is already a hit with stars like Travis Kelce

This Meatpacking District restaurant opened in September and is already a hit with stars like Travis Kelce, Mark Wahlberg, G-Eazy, Darren Criss, and a whole slew of models, like Jessica Naz, who just so happens to be the owner's fiance.

Harpers Bazaar Vietnam and other fashion magazines have hosted parties at the Mediterranean establishment, guaranteeing models flock to the upscale dining room next door to the Gansevoort Hotel.

The Mykonos-inspired restaurant is thanks to Noble 33, the team that's also behind Toca Madera and Casa Madera.

Silver Linings

The buzzy piano lounge is a hit with stars like Suki Waterhouse and her beau and baby's father, Robert Pattinson, as well as their pals Emma Stone and Mischa Barton

This celeb-approved piano bar and music lounge on the Lower East Side is already hit with model turned musician Suki Waterhouse and her beau, Robert Pattinson.

The couple hosted a party at the Moxy Hotel TAO Hospitality Group lounge attended by Emma Stone, Mischa Barton and more of their celebrity pals.

The intimate lounge is from the team behind The Flower Shop, another LES hotspot with a massive line-up of celebrity fans.

With blue velvet banquettes and Andy Warhol-inspired art, it's a must-visit during the upcoming fashion week.
Every time you log on to TikTok or Instagram these days, it seems like a new skincare or beauty product is going viral, promising to shrink your pores, diminish wrinkles or even fade your dark spots.

But what if you could achieve that ageless, glowing look without having to invest in a bottle of La Mer or a pricey new lip balm?

A team of dermatologists has revealed to DailyMail.com exactly how you can up your skincare game without having to spend money on new products.

They shared simple, little-known hacks that you can adopt into your routine to help your overall skin health.

Dermatologists Dr. Bradley Glodny (left) and Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky (right) offered multiple skincare secrets that will leave you looking ageless

Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali (left) and Dr. Jenny Liu (right) also offered their expertise to FEMAIL, explaining why certain skincare habits are extremely important for an ageless complexion

Adjust the position that you're sleeping in to avoid the stomach

One of the most important things to start doing to get that youthful glow is to adjust the position that you're sleeping in, according to the experts.

'Altering the position you sleep in can help reduce or reverse aging,' Mississippi-based dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, who is known online as @dermguru, told DailyMail.com.

'With time, we can develop sleep wrinkles of loss of volume on the face if we consistently sleep on our side or on our belly,' she explained.

'By switching to back sleeping, this reduces the pressure on the face and thus reduces sleep wrinkles and volume loss.'

With a new product going viral everyday, it can be hard to find skincare solutions that help to achieve that ageless, glowing look without having to invest in a bottle of La Mer or a pricey new lip balm

Dr. Bradley Glodny, a board-certified dermatologist at Park Avenue Dermatology in New York City, also recommended sleeping on your back in order to avoid wrinkles.

'Deeper wrinkles can be created in our skin when excessive pressure is exerted on its surface like when sleeping on your stomach (and face),' Dr. Glodny revealed to DailyMail.com.

'Sleeping this way often leaves wrinkles extending from the top of your forehead down to you brows,' he explained.

However, if sleeping on your back is not as comfortable, Dr. Glodny offered a tip to help mitigate that problem.

'By propping a pillow under each arm can help keep you on your back while you sleep through the night,' he said.

Achieve more from your moisturizer

According to Dr. Zubritsky, moisturizer is best absorbed when applied to damp skin.

'Applying moisturizer, especially ones with hyaluronic acid, onto dry skin can be ineffective and even damaging to some,' she told DailyMail.com.

'Hyaluronic acid, for example, is a humectant and draws water towards it. If it is applied on dry skin, it can actually draw moisture away from the skin,' she continued.

'Apply moisturizer on damp skin helps to keep skin looking soft, supple, and plumper.'

Similarly, Dr. Glodny added: 'When moisturizing and/or washing your face you can prevent and relieve swelling by gently massaging your skin to help your lymphatic system drain excess fluid.'

According to Dr. Zubritsky, moisturizer is best absorbed when applied to damp skin

Hold your phone in a different position to avoid the horrid 'tech neck'

During the day, it's also important to be aware of how we're positioning our bodies when looking at our phones to prevent that dreaded tech neck.

Tech neck is a common term used for the pain and discomfort that occurs when we strain our necks and shoulders to look at the computer or phone screen for too long.

Aside from pain, it can also cause unsightly creases in the neck, according to Dr. Glodny.

'The dreaded tech neck makes our neck appear more wrinkled and older in nature,' he explained.

'This can happen due to neck flexure when looking at your phone screens and computer if they are oriented below your line of sight.'

In order to combat this, you can simply adjust the way that you are looking at your phone.

'One great hack to avoid this is by holding your phone in line with your eyes and keeping your computer oriented at a height that does not make your neck bend downward to view it,' Dr. Glodny suggested.

Don't underestimate the importance of cleansing

Besides these adjustments in your routine, there are also some steps you can take when it comes to cleansing your face and body, which the dermatologists outlined for DailyMail.com.

'Using an SPF is the easiest way to prevent aging,' New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali told DailyMail.com.

Dr. Bhanusali, who is the dermatologist-in-residence for Hailey Bieber's skincare brand, Rhode Skin, said that it's important to keep in mind that 'good science is the backbone of good skincare and effective routines.'

Dr. Bhanusali is the dermatologist in residence for star Hailey Bieber's skincare brand, Rhode Skin

Similarly, cleansing is another hidden key to unlocking anti-aging benefits.

'Cleansing is important first step,' Minnesota-based dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu told DailyMail.com.

'Even if you don't wear makeup or a lot of products, over time dead skin builds up and sebum can contribute to inflammation and skin aging,' she warned.

Avoid washing your body and face with hot water

When cleansing, avoid hot water when doing so in the shower, as it can cause dry skin in turn, making us look older. This also goes for washing your hands.

Instead, you should go for water that's at a lukewarm temperature.

'Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils leaving it dry and lack luster,' the dermatologist revealed.

'Dry skin looks older so therefore lukewarm water will leave your skin with oils intact and appearing healthier and younger.'

'As we age our skin becomes less oily and more dry, so our natural oils keeps our skin youthful,' he added.

Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in the skin

And, of course, there are other lifestyle changes you can make if you're looking for an easy way to look younger, like quitting smoking.

'One of the easiest reverse aging hacks is to quit smoking or vaping,' Dr. Zubritsky told DailyMail.com.

'Not only are the chemicals in cigarettes or vapes damaging to our skin health (it is known to reduce collagen and elastin in our skin), but it also accelerates smokers lines around our mouth.'

So the next time you are tempted to buy a brand-new viral product, remember you may already have some tools in your arsenal for a quick fix.
Tweens and teens are going wild in Sephora, as they test out expensive skincare products and make a major mess.

Many of the teenagers are flocking to Drunk Elephant, a beauty brand beloved by stars like Alix Earle, Hailey Bieber, and Kourtney Kardashian.

Now, beauty lovers are taking to TikTok and Reddit to complain about the 'Sephora tweens' and blame their parents for their bad behavior.

Sephora employees and shoppers are calling the young women 'feral' and begging their parents to supervise them at the high-end beauty store.

Tweens and teens are going wild in Sephora, as they test out expensive skincare products and make a major mess

TikTok content creator and aesthetician Cassandra Bankson, 31, investigated the rumor in Los Angeles and was shocked by her findings

Cassandra told her 437,000 followers the Drunk Elephant section was 'disgusting' and shared footage of the destroyed department

TikTok content creator and aesthetician Cassandra Bankson, 31, investigated the rumor in Los Angeles and was shocked by her findings, telling her 437,000 followers the Drunk Elephant section was 'disgusting' before sharing footage of the destroyed department.

What's the Drunk Elephant smoothie? The brand is known for making a 'smoothie' out of their products, and encourages users to apply products together all at once instead of layering each separately. 'Combining small doses of powerful ingredients, instead of overloading your skin with layers of different actives, is the best way to get the most from your routine,' Drunk Elephant promised in a TikTok video last year. However, many teens aren't doing the mixing at home, and instead are putting all the products together using the testers at Sephora. Advertisement

The model found 'a lip balm with a literal hair in it' and that 'someone put the bronzing drops all over one of the moisturizers and couldn't even be bothered to put them back.'

Cassandra found products from the more affordable Sephora Brand Inkey List mixed in, and said clean skincare brand Glow Recipe was also impacted by the teens, but not quite as intensely.

'Pre-tweens kept slamming into me and crowding the section... There were so many teens unsupervised,' Cassandra announced. 'The Drunk Elephant section was foul.'

Drunk Elephant is wildly popular with teens and tweens because of its colorful packaging, with prices ranging from $16 for the jelly cleanser to $98 for the cult favorite Protini Polypeptide Firming Refillable Moisturizer.

While it's not specifically marketed towards teens, after young celebrities started using the brand on social media, Gen Alpha quickly became obsessed with the skincare products.

'Where are your parents? Someone needs to be grounded. I thought it was all rumors. I'm speechless,' Cassandra continued - but since some of the prices are high, many parents don't allow their tweens to buy the products. Instead, teens test out the lotions and serums at Sephora stores.

Followers weighed in with how they thought the brand should handle the constant mess around their department.

The model found 'a lip balm with a literal hair in it' in the destroyed Drunk Elephant department, where teens flocked to try out the pricey products

Cassandra found 'someone put the bronzing drops all over one of the moisturizers and couldn't even be bothered to put them back,' which is popular as people make slime or smoothies

In the TikTok comments, people joked about the tweens loving the overpriced products and said the area often looked like a 'war zone'

'They are drawn to Drunk Elephant the same way babies are drawn to colorful toys. Like their brains are still developing normally but wrong products,' a commenter quipped.

'I work for Ulta [and] we like to say the reason for the Drunk Elephant's name is because it always looks like a drunk elephant went through the section,' another joked.

'They are going to ruin sampling for all of us,' a commenter complained.

Another TikTok beauty lover explained they first got into skincare at 14 but added, 'I was never this destructive, it really comes down to parents.'

I work for Ulta [and] we like to say the reason for Drunk Elephant's name is because it always looks like a drunk elephant went through the section. Ulta worker on TikTok

Other commenters said the Drunk Elephant section at their local Sephora looked like a 'war zone.'

'Drunk Elephant should just switch gears and make overpriced do-nothing products for kids at this point,' one suggested, as the products can be harsh on young skin, like the Protini Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum with Lactic Acid ($82).

They're not the first person to point out that the products can be unsafe for tweens.

Kourtney Kardashian's daughter Penelope Disick caused quite a controversy when she shared her skincare routine on TikTok, using many of the brand's products. The 11-year-old has a 10-step, $500 beauty routine that could be hurting her young skin.

Scottsdale, Arizona-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy explained in a video that 'tween skin deserves gentle care, not a pricey, extensive skincare routine,' adding that 'harsh chemicals aren't meant for those in-between years.'

'Drunk Elephant products may be fine for adult skin but for kiddos, it is definitely not!' the dermatologist, who specializes in tween skincare, explained.

Sephora employees complained bitterly about the teens who are obsessed with Drunk Elephant in an anonymous Reddit community

In the Sephora Workers Reddit community, the response was much the same.

One commenter wrote they saw 'TONS of elementary and middle school aged kids coming in a making a mess of the display, then throwing actual fits when mom says they can't have a $90 serum.'

Another Sephora employee wrote, 'TikTok and some of these brands are vile for marketing their products towards young kids who just see the pretty packaging and want to slap products on their faces like Meredith Duxbury.'

In another Reddit thread, a Sephora lover wrote, 'Feral children are going to get the entire beauty section locked up for everyone, everywhere.'

A commenter agreed, 'I wish the store could implement a rule that they can't enter the store without a parent.'

Drunk Elephant products aren't the only ones being destroyed by teens - the Inkey List, Fenty Beauty, and Glow Recipe are also popular options

Drunk Elephant's founder Tiffany Masterson talked to Ad Age about the ongoing Gen Alpha controversy and explained that she thinks social media is partly to blame for the popularity of the products.

'I think TikTok pushed it over the edge, but that feels like it's been in the last two years or so,' Tiffany said.

'I don't think it's such a new thing with kids wanting nice things that are expensive and that are out of their reach.'

And much like the TikTok creators, Tiffany also places the blame on parents who leave their tweens unattended at the makeup store.

'We have kids coming in being disrespectful to Sephora employees, they're being disrespectful of the space, they're leaving messes, they're upsetting other customers, they're upsetting the employees,' Tiffany said.

'We have a responsibility as a brand, but part of this is a parenting issue,' Tiffany proclaimed, asking, 'Do you allow your kids to storm Sephora with your credit card?'
The report also revealed the average person consumes 288 slices every year

They surveyed 5,000 Americans about their pizza-consumption habits

New York style pizza is the most popular in America, according to a new report

New York style pizza is officially the most popular way to enjoy a slice of pie, according to a new report.

The average American consumes a staggering 288 slices every year, according to a report released by Pizza Hut.

Overall, people indulge in pizza three times a month in the US, with North Dakota leading the way at 3.5 times per month.

There are approximately eight slices consumed monthly, although that varies across states with Wisconsin taking the lead with 10 slices gobbled down a month.

New York style pizza is officially the most popular way to enjoy a slice of pie, according to a new report

When ordering a pie, 47 percent of Americans prefer large pizzas, contributing to an annual consumption of 288 slices per person

The report was commissioned by Pizza Hut between December 22, 2023 and January 5, 2024, surveying 5,000 American adults.

New York topped the charts as the most popular pizza style, with 35 percent choosing the Empire State as their favorite style.

Parmesan was the preferred seasoning, with 55 percent choosing that - except in New York, where garlic salt is favored by 29 percent of people.

In terms of flavor profiles, 52 percent of respondents lean towards savory, 34 percent hearty, and 27 percent spicy.

When ordering a pie, 47 percent of Americans prefer large pizzas, contributing to an annual consumption of 288 slices per person.

This is equivalent to 480 gallons or a large, six person hot tub filled to the brim with delicious slices of dough and toppings.

The states with the highest consumption of pizza are North Dakota, New York, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

One trend the pizza chain is going to spotlight in their pizzas, is the combination of sweet and spicy pizza - introducing hot honey items to the menu.

The reported was commissioned by Pizza Hut between December 22, 2023 and January 5, 2024, surveying 5,000 American adults

The Hot Honey Pizza starts with a choice of crust, topped with marinara sauce, cheese, classic pepperonis and crispy cupped pepperonis with a drizzle of sweet sauce infused with red habaneros and a touch of honey.

Pizza Hut is also releasing Hot Honey Wings, which are available in traditional bone-in or boneless coated in sweet heat flavors.

'At Pizza Hut, our commitment to modernizing flavors is at the forefront of our brand identity. We lead trends and go bigger on flavor, as exemplified by the tremendous success of our Hot Honey test, which exceeded guest expectations,' Rachel Antalek, Pizza Hut's Chief Food Innovation Officer said.

'This bold innovation not only elevates our pizza experience but also opens up exciting opportunities to showcase our wings.'

Rachel continued: 'Get ready for a flavor revolution that goes beyond pizza, truly embodying the spirit of Pizza Hut innovation.'

Parmesan was the preferred seasoning, with 55 percent choosing that - except in New York, where garlic salt is favored by 29 percent of people

As well as sharing their favorite toppings, customers also dished on the toppings that should be banned - 23 percent said no to fish on pizza, 21 percent said beets, 15 percent said blueberries, 14 percent responded plums kiwis fruit, and surprisingly 10 percent are okay with any topping.

One thing most respondents could agree on are having peppers on pizza, loving everything from roasted sweet peppers to bold, spicy peppers.

Friday is the most popular day of the week to order pizzas, with 47 percent of customers choosing to kick back and relax with a slice at the end of the working wee.

More than half of those who responded believe pizza is a better meal than a snack and an overwhelming percentage of respondents - 74 percent - love cold leftovers.
Famed for his portraits of supermodels, A-listers and royals, London-based fashion photographer Rankin has thrown his weight behind a new campaign to prevent devastating acid attacks.

Working not with a 'super' or a famous face but with acid attack survivor Patricia Lefranc, Rankin has created a Look Book - a catalogue of photographs produced to promote fashion designers' latest styles - to highlight the horrendous impact that acid attacks have on survivors' lives.

In partnership with Acid Survivors Trust International (ASTi), the project culminated in The Tear Couture Look Book, a series of monochrome portraits that wouldn't look out of place in a high-end designer's ad campaign.

The Look Book, which has a foreword by the charity's Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, tells survivor and campaigner Lefranc's personal story of being attacked with sulphuric acid by her spurned lover Richard Remes in 2009.

Following the attack, Lefranc was in a coma for three months and had to stay in hospital for nine months, slowly learning how to live again.

Patrcia Lefranc, 59, from Belgium, was shot by renowned British fashion photographer Rankin for a campaign launched to highlight the horrific impact of acid attacks on survivors. Pictured holding an image of herself from before the attack, the photo suggests she is still grieving for her former appearance

The Tear Couture Look Book, featuring a series of monochrome images of Lefranc, was equally created to raise awareness about the link between acid attacks and the fashion, textiles, retail and manufacturing industries as they exist in the global south

In one photo, Lefranc is looking straight at the camera, holding up a picture of herself that was taken before the attack.

The powerful shot suggests Lefranc is still grieving for her former appearance and everything that was cruelly stolen from her in the attack.

Lefranc commented: 'Many people are unaware of the enormous pain and suffering that acid attack survivors go through.

'I'm so grateful to Rankin for this opportunity to raise awareness of our situation, and to take steps together to prevent further attacks.'

During the incident her nose and eyelids were melted away and she also lost a finger, sight in one eye and hearing in one ear. She also came close to death, as the corrosive substance nearly burned through her heart and lungs, but incredibly her breast implants stopped further deterioration.

Patricia, who previously worked as a janitor first met Remes, while they were living in the same apartment block in Brussels in December 2008.

After a brief conversation in the lift he asked her out for a drink and more dates ensued.

But after several meetings she was devastated to learn that Remes was married with five children and called off the relationship.

She added: 'I was shocked and said we should just be friends - we hadn't slept together and I wasn't about to break up a family.'

Patricia before the acid attack by her former lover Richard Remes in 2009

But Remes was determined for the relationship to continue and the pair soon started meeting twice a week and Patricia's flat.

At one point his wife found out about the tryst and threw him out but Remes returned to his family while continuing to meet with Patricia in secret.

It was only on a holiday in Egypt in 2009 that Patricia became aware of Remes's dark streak when he started talking about violent films that involved torturing women and when they returned home she refused to see him again.

It was this event that triggered his increasingly obsessive behaviour and he was even spotted by locals wearing a T-shirt printed with a picture of Patricia's face and the words 'I love you' shortly after.

She alerted the police, but they told her to move house and four-days later she was visited at her flat on suburbs of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean by Remes who was disguised as a parcel courier.

As soon as she answered the buzzer he splashed a container of acid all over her face and upper body.

She said she was convinced she would die, but neighbours in a nearby building heard her screams and managed to get her to the burns unit of a nearby hospital, where she lay in a coma for three months. Her children, Laetitia, Marie, and Joey, kept a vigil at her beside and Remes was arrested thanks to an eye witness.

Remes, then 57, was found guilty of attempted murder by a jury in Brussels in 2012, and sentenced to 30 years in prison.

While Lefranc, 59, is based Belgium, Rankin and ASTi hope the Look Book will reach beyond Europe to draw attention to the link between acid attacks and the fashion, textiles, retail and manufacturing industries as they exist in the global south.

Attacked with sulphuric acid by a man with whom she had been in a relationship, Lefranc spent three months in a coma and was in hospital for a nine months

Pictured reviewing the Look Book in which she stars, Lefranc thanked Rankin for his help in telling her story and raising awareness with a view to stopping future acid attacks

Research indicates a correlation between legitimate business uses of acid and the incidence of acid attacks in the global south, specifically in areas where the fashion and textile industries require on large quantities of sulphuric acid.

A report on acid violence by the Avon Global Center for Women and Justice, Cornell Law School and the Virtue Foundation stated: 'In Bangladesh, for example, the incidence of acid violence is highest in districts where the acid-using garment and jewellery industries are prevalent.'

ASTI estimates that the number of global attacks exceed 10,000 each year. But this is a very conservative estimate as governments in many countries do not maintain official records of acid attacks.

Rankin commented: 'I have a special affinity with the fashion industry and I've been delighted to see the changes that have taken place within the industry in recent years to make it more sustainable and responsible.

'When ASTi explained to me the issue of acid misuse within supply chains, I knew I had to take action.'
A director who worked with Meghan Markle in the early part of her acting career has revealed he spent the night chatting to Prince Harry at the Legends of Aviation awards.

Matthew Cole Weiss, 44, said he had a 'full convo' with the royal who was 'super sweet' and revealed Harry had watched 2006 made-for-TV movie Deceit in which Meghan has a role.

The psychological thriller, released in 2006, follows a young man returning home after his father's death and falling in love with his best friend's wife.

It explores attraction, violence, and deception. Meghan plays Gwen in one scene in the film, a friend of the protagonist who offers advise to the main character.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, after the gala in Los Angeles, Weiss wrote: 'Got to have a full convo with Prince Harry. Super sweet. He knew of the movie I directed starring Meghan! Said he watched it before. And Pics with Oliver stone and William Shatner!'

Matthew Cole Weiss, 44, said he had a 'full convo' with the royal who was 'super sweet' and revealed Harry had watched 2006 made-for-TV movie Deceit in which Meghan has a role. Meghan is pictured in the film

The psychological thriller, released in 2006, follows a young man returning home after his father's death and falling in love with his best friend's wife

Weiss, who also works as a produce for TMZ and has a social media feed filled with celebrity selfies, added a snap of Harry chatting to guests at the gala.

The film has poor reviews online, scoring just 4.5/10 on IMDB, with viewers saying it has 'weak acting,' 'no characters' adding it will 'bore you to death'.

Harry appeared happy to pose for pictures at the gala, which Meghan had to miss to take care of a sick child.

Among them was the self-style 'Prince' Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe - who was once dubbed the 'King of Trash TV'.

The duke was all smiles as he posed with Mario-Max, despite being warned to 'stay away' from the German 'prince', who is accused of using his spurious connections to flog a 'wealth elixir'.

Mario-Max's 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'.

Harry appeared happy to pose for pictures at the gala. He is seen with John Travolta, Lauren Sanches and Jeff Bezos

Weiss, who also works as a produce for TMZ and has a social media feed filled with celebrity selfies, added a snap of Harry chatting to guests at the gala

The head of the family, Prince Alexander of Schaumburg-Lippe, told The Mail on Sunday: '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.

Accepting the award, Harry did not mention the health issues of his father or sister-in-law, but did pay tribute to his late mother.

Accepting the award from host John Travolta, he mentioned Princess Diana dancing with him at a White House dinner for President Ronald Reagan in 1985.

'I was just a one-year-old when you danced with my mum at the White House and now look at us.'

He added: 'The only thing left to do is... not dance together but fly together.'

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.

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.'

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

Prince Mario-Max later called the moment between Harry and Travolta on-stage 'very touching and sweet'.

'John Travolta presented the award and he referred to the dance with his mother Princess Diana, (when) Prince Harry was one year old so he's like, "Now I see you again under a new circumstance, on a new stage",' he said.

'That was very touching and very sweet because we all remember how gorgeous the dance was of John Travolta and Princess Diana, and now Princess Diana's son is getting an award from John Travolta. It was the cutest, most touching moment.'

In his speech, Harry went on to thank the Living Legends of Aviation awards for the 'incredible honour', adding that he is 'proud to be recognised among such a dynamic and inspiring group of individuals'.

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.

He continued: '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 find my flight training  which was over the course of three years to be one of lifes greatest lessons. It triggered a vast array of feelings.'

He did not allude to the medical dramas for his family on the other side of the Atlantic; The Princess of Wales is part-way through a two-week stay in hospital after undergoing surgery, while King Charles is being treated for an enlarged prostate.

Meghan (pictured with Harry in May 2023 in New York City), 42, was not present as one of their children became unwell, the PA news agency understands

But Harry's nomination has angered some top former British military officials.

Lord West, former head of the Royal Navy, said: '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 if they're willing to pick someone like Prince Harry.

'He didn't carry off any great exciting feat of amazing flying skill while flying for the Army. They're just trying to get publicity. They know it will cause a stir.'

Retired officer Colonel Richard Kemp said that Harry was 'a brave guy' and his role in Afghanistan was 'undoubtedly very dangerous'.

But he said that there are 'helicopter pilots who have done much more extraordinary things in Iraq and Afghanistan, risking their lives to rescue their fellow soldiers.'

The Living Legends of Aviation website also praised the duke for his work with charities and organizations 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 was inducted alongside US navy pilot Fred George and former world speed record holder Steve Hinton, as well as Lauren Sanchez  a helicopter pilot who is engaged to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

She is set to receive 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.

Kate is not expected to resume public duties until well into the spring.
Explorer Simon Reeve has branded his trek through the Congo for his new show Wilderness his toughest experience to date, and viewers have agreed that the presenter and his crew are 'made of strong stuff' after a gruesome start to the series.

In the first episode, which aired on BBC 2 last night, Simon, 51, treks through the Congo Basin, Africa's largest forest spanning 1.3 million square miles, facing challenging weather conditions, biting insects and a dwindling water supply.

But perhaps the most stomach-churning scene occurs when the cameraman, Jonathan Young, discovers a jigger flea has tunnelled into his ankle to lay its eggs.

A toe-curling extraction involves the medic removing the flea and egg sac with a scalpel - in the middle of the night.

Wilderness with Simon Reeve follows the explorer as he travels across the Pacific Ocean Coral Triangle, Africa's Congo rainforest and Kalahari Desert, and Patagonia in south America.

Simon Reeve has returned with a gripping four-part adventure series, premiered on BBC2 yesterday - and it features an itinerary full of extreme challenges

Simon, a bestselling author and presenter, is meeting people who live in these natural environments to learn how we can preserve these areas for future generations.

He is accompanied by Congolese wildlife activist and conservationist Adams Cassinga, as well as his crew.

The explorer says the trek through the Congo is his toughest experience to date.

However, his insect bites seem mild compared to the ordeal of his cameraman, Jonathan, who discovers a jigger flea has tunnelled into his ankle to lay its eggs.

Viewers praised Simon and his crew for their toughness and said they would not be able to cope with the conditions or the creepy crawlies

The former marine's ankle, which has turned a dark shade of purple, needs to be sliced open with a scapel by the team medic to remove the flea and its eggs - in the middle of the night.

Simon commends Jonathan's 'extraordinary heroism' as he watches on with torches providing just enough light for the medic to perform the procedure.

Elsewhere, the group faces challenging conditions as they make slow progress through the world's largest peat bog, estimated to be the size of England - at times, even Adams looks flustered.

Three days from the nearest hotel or hospital, an exhausted Simon frequently exclaims 'Bloody hell!' while wading through thigh-high deep mud for extended periods of time. He estimates the group is travelling at 1mph as every step is so demanding.

The medic had to use a scalpel to remove a jigger flea and its eggs from cameraman Jonathan Young's ankle

The procedure was filmed, showing stringly puss being pulled out from beneath the skin

The medic made sure to sanitise Jonathan's skin after the removal was complete

Jonathan, a former marine, initially believed he had a bad blister on his ankle, but the reality was more gruesome

Simon watched on with torches providing just enough light for the medic to perform the procedure

They eventually discover the nomadic Baka people, who live in the forest. The clan welcome the crew and the women build Simon a hut in a matter of minutes.

Adams explains that these people live in harmony with the forest - unlike those in the modern world, who are more materialistic.

Later on, the explorers arrive in Salonga, in search of bonobos, the great apes. The journey to find them is brutal, with Simon and his team chopping through thick bush in sweltering heat in a fog of biting insects.

Eventually, the team strucks gold and even spots baby bonobos that appear content with their laid-back lifestyle - Simon notes that one looks as though it could be basking in the sunshine in Benidorm.

Spanning 1.3 million square miles, the African forest is one of the most significant wild areas left on Earth, according to the World Wildlife Fund.

Many scientists believe the Congo is now globally more critical than the deforested Amazon, since it contains enough trees to absorb more carbon than it emits.
A journalist who made a series of bombshell allegations about Queen Letizia has been sacked by the newspaper he worked for after 20 years.

Jaime Penafiel, 91, who wrote the recent book 'Letizia & I', was employed by El Mundo, which is the second largest print newspaper in Spain.

At the end of last year, the veteran journalist sent shockwaves through the Spanish Royal Family after he alleged that the Queen had a romantic relationship with her ex-brother-in-law.

The book relied heavily on allegations made by Jaime Del Burgo, 53, who sensationally claimed that he was still romantically involved with Letizia after her 2004 wedding to King Felipe.

The businessman told the author that he met Letizia before 2000 and their relationship began on a romantic trip to Venice, years before she met King Felipe.

Pictured: Veteran journalist Jaime Penafiel, 91, attends event in Madrid in December 2018. The author has confirmed he is no longer employed by the Spanish newspaper El Mundo

Over the weekend, the journalist spoke to Argentinian publication Semana and confirmed that he was no longer employed by El Mundo.

During the interview, the journalist denied that the decision to leave El Mundo was made months ago.

Initial reports in Spanish media claimed that Jaime Penafiel was let go due to 2024 budget restraints.

However, the author claimed that the decision to sack him was made on the day he complained about a 'very offensive' article that had been printed about him.

Jaime claimed: 'It was all as a result of the statements about Letizia and the book.'

Despite the impact it has had on his career, Jaime said he 'doesn't regret' writing the book and said he was 'very generous' with the Queen.

The journalist alleges that he only 'reproduced 2% of what Jaime del Burgo informed [him] so as not to hurt people's integrity'.

Jaime's book caused a media storm in Spain when it first hit shelves. Spanish journalist Ana Pastor wrote on X at the time: 'The campaigns against Letizia are not new and usually always come from the same side.'

Pictured: Queen Letizia and King Felipe attend Closing concert of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in December 2023, weeks after Jaime del Burgo's allegations were published

Pictured: Queen Letizia's ex-brother-in-law Jaime del Burgo with his ex-wife Telma when they were still married

Journalist Rosa Villacastin added: 'If what Penafiel intended was to discredit Letizia, his move has gone wrong. Women and many men are in her favor and against the machismo of those who believe they are more than anyone else.

'That the granddaughter of a taxi driver today is the Queen of Spain is something to be proud of.'

In the book, Jaime del Burgo makes the unlikely claim that he was planning to propose to Letizia - who was a newsreader at the time - on the night that she told him that she was dating a high-profile man in Spain.

Letizia reportedly told him that she had 'met someone who would oblige her to quit her profession', which Jaime said led him to deduce her mystery partner was Felipe.

What's more, the royal's ex-brother-in-law also made the far-fetched claim that he 'dealt' with Letizia's pre-nuptial agreement and helped to front the cost of the Queen's family's wedding outfits.

He is quoted as saying: 'When the wedding with Felipe came round, I dealt with the pre-nuptial agreement as you know, amongst other things.

'I also had to pay Letizia's family's expenses because [former King] Juan Carlos refused to pay or even go halves with me. So with the help of my friend Felipe Varela, I dressed her mum, grandmother and her sisters. And with the help of Jaime Jason, her father, grandparents and a cousin.'

TIMELINE OF JAIME'S CLAIMS ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH SPAIN'S ROYAL FAMILY Pre-2000 - Letizia Oritz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating

- Letizia Oritz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating 2001 - Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance

- Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance 2003 - Letizia and Felipe announce engagement.

- Letizia and Felipe announce engagement. 2004 - the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony

- the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony 2005 - the couple welcome Princess Leonor

February 2007 - Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away

- Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away April 2007 - Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love.

- Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love. 2 010 - the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby

- the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby 2011 - Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone

- Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone 2 012 - Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York

- Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York 2014 - Telma and Jaime announce their separation Advertisement

Jaime also makes the incredible claim that the Queen asked to see him the night before the wedding at the exclusive El Latigazo restaurant in Madrid - where she asked him to 'never leave' her.

He sensationally claimed: 'When we met, she took hold of my hand and asked me why I had never asked her to marry me. Obviously I didn't reply. I encouraged her as best I could. The last thing she said to me before we said goodbye to each other in that restaurant was a request: 'Never leave me.''

Jaime - who says the Queen nicknamed him her 'yogi pal' - claims he still had a romantic relationship with Letizia even after the wedding in 2004. He also claims he has kept 'photographs, videos, mobile phones' and text messages as evidence.

In the book, Jaime sensationally claims that Letizia whispered that she loved him when they were lying in a hammock by a pool at her home following Princess Leonor's birth.

Following this, Jaime alleges they 'took steps forward with the goal of being free' - which involved seeking legal advice and looking at properties in the US.

One of the most damaging claims Jaime reportedly makes is that Queen Letizia suggested they have a child together using a surrogate in Los Angeles.

Around this time, Jaime claims that he confronted Letizia after photos of her kissing Felipe appeared on the covers of Spanish magazines.

He claims the Queen told him: 'I had to do it to protect us.'

He says in the book Jaime del Burgo told him Felipe and Letizia had a 'difficult relationship' and told him: 'Felipe uses me as a good man because he felt incapable of calming her down.'

After Letizia allegedly ended the 'relationship' in August 2011, Jaime claims that a female friend told him to get in touch with the Queen's sister Telma.

The following year, the pair got engaged after just two months of dating. However, the couple divorced 2014 following two years of marriage.

The couple's first attempts at divorce had been squashed by the groom's father Jaime Ignacio del Burgo, who told a court that his son and Telma repented and wanted to give their marriage another go.

Telma is now with Irish lawyer Gavin Bonnar and the couple welcomed their first child together in October 2021. Gavin shares two children with his first wife musician Sharon Corr.

Meanwhile, Jaime remarried Swedish lawyer Lucia Diaz Liljestrom and the couple share their daughter Ulla.
An American podcaster has sparked outrage among Australians after saying she has a problem with people using the word 'brekkie'.

Jennifer Welch, who co-hosts the podcast I've Had It with Ange Sullivan, admitted she managed to 'p**s off an entire country' after detailing her distain of the Aussie slang term.

'I've had it with people calling breakfast, 'brekkie'. Stop,' she said.

'Quit putting on your Instagram 'brekkie in bed', 'going to brekkie with my boo','

'Put a sock in it. Quit making up cute words for your performative Instagram posts.

'Stop, for the love of God, calling breakfast, 'brekkie'.'

Poll Is it okay to use the word brekkie instead of breakfast? Yes No Only if you're Australian Is it okay to use the word brekkie instead of breakfast? Yes 401 votes

No 48 votes

Only if you're Australian 79 votes Now share your opinion





Fans of the show were quick to point out that it's a uniquely Australian word.

'If you're an Aussie that's its name. It's Brekkie,' one wrote.

Another fan said: 'I think you need do a deep dive into Australian slang.'

'Australia is shook right now,' a third joked.

Ms Welch took to TikTok on Saturday to an issue an apology saying 'We accidentally waged war on Australia'.

The co-host told Ms Sullivan how she had 'really walked into it'.

'So, I'd had it with the word 'brekkie'. Well, in Australia, that is what they call 'breakfast' exclusively, is 'brekkie',' Welch said.

'I want the country of Australia to know that I'm specifically talking about American  United States of America, Americans - influencers, on Instagram, that could not find Australia on a map with both hands and a flashlight.

'These are the people that I've had it with. I've not had it with Australia, or Australians.

'And now we have to go on the Aussie redemption tour.'

Jennifer Welch who co-hosts the podcast I've Had It with Ange Sullivan, admitted she managed to 'p**s off an entire country' when she announced her dislike of the word 'brekkie'

Aussies were quick to defend the term, with one saying 'Australia is shook right now' (stock image)

Podcast listeners were once again quick to comment, this time offering their forgiveness.

'Thanks for the clarity! Us Aussies were so triggered,' one wrote.

'Aussie here. You're forgiven,' another said.

Confusingly, there were many comments from Australians saying they don't use the word 'brekkie'.

'We do not call it exclusively brekky,' one wrote.

'Australian here.. I will never say brekky because I'm an adult,' another said.

'I have never called breakfast brekkie. Literally born in Australia. Maybe it's a Sydney/ Melbourne thing,' a third fan wrote.
Feisty King's Life Guard horse tugs at tourist's jacket and refuses to let go

The King's Life Guard, the mounted guard stationed outside the main entrance to Buckingham Palace, has long attracted the attention of tourists fascinated by the British royal family and its long-standing traditions, in particular the Changing of the Guard.

But, a female tourist who went in search of a photo with one of the famed Guard got a lot more than she bargained for, while the horse in question left no one in any doubt that it was up to the task of protecting the monarch.

In a video clip , the young woman is seen positioned in line with the horse's head, ready for her photo opportunity.

While a sign next to the guard warns onlookers that horses may kick or bite, the woman can't resist raising her hand in an attempt to stroke the animal when it tilts its head to nuzzle her.

Yet as she does so, the horse bites down on the arm of her black puffer jacket and is soon tugging at it in an increasingly aggressive manner.

When the woman made to stroke the horse's face, it bit down on the arm of her jacket. Refusing to let go, it tugged on the jacket and pulled her back and forth and up and down before finally releasing it

Even as the woman tries to move away from the horse, it remains attached to her jacket and, moving its head from side to side and up and down, pulls her this way and that with vigour.

While the woman showed signs of fright on her face, she appeared more shocked and bemused by the experience than she was shaken.

When the horse releases her jacket after about five seconds of tugging, she looks noticeably relieved before starting to giggle.

What seems to shock her the most, though, is the hole in her jacket where the horse bit down to reveal the stuffing.

A passerby asks: 'Is your coat all torn apart now?' to which she replies with a sheepish 'Yes'.

The King's Guards are posted for public duties outside Buckingham and St James's Palaces, and at Horse Guards on Whitehall.

Although their role is mostly ceremonial, they are part of the British Army's Household Division and patrol the palaces, guarding the sovereign at night.

Back in September 2023, another tourist got a little too close to a King's Guards horse and was blasted by the soldier.

In the video, a throng of tourists can be seen clamoring around a mounted guard on Horse Guard's parade, Westminster.

The tourist is seen trying to get away from the horse after it has clamped down on her jacket - but to no avail

The woman is pictured standing next to the King's Life Guard just before she reaches out to stroke the horse when she gets much more than she bargained for

Multiple nervous tourists are seen approaching the mounted pair, respecting their distance and posing for smiling photographs.

Some brave souls are seen laying tentative hands on the enormous horse's flanks which the mounted guard graciously allows.

However, one tourist overstepped the limit, and in the process of trying to touch the horse tampered with the reins causing the King's Guard to bellow: 'Do not touch the reins!'

Clearly in a state of shock, the tourist backs away from the horse raising a hand in apology as he does so while the crowd chatter nervously.
              Ruen  ...
Queen Camilla today said she hoped the 'horrific' scourge of domestic abuse would be 'obliterated' in the next 50 years, while making a speech at a domestic abuse charity.

The monarch's address marked the 50th anniversary of the Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service, which she honoured with a visit to the charitys refuge - just days before King Charles is expected to undergo surgery for an enlarged prostate.

The queen met with staff, volunteers, families and partner agencies including Wiltshire Police and Swindon Borough Council to highlight their work.

During her appearance at the refuge, the queen unveiled a plaque in honour of the beneficiaries and also received a bouquet of flowers, presumably gifted to her by one of the guests.

She also praised the charity's brilliant work in helping victims of domestic violence.

Queen Camilla today said she hoped the 'horrific' scourge of domestic abuse would be 'obliterated' in the next 50 years, while making a speech at a domestic abuse charity

Her Majesty was seen leaving the women's refuge this morning with a colourful bouquet of flowers

The King is said to be 'fine' as he prepares to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate this week (pictured on January 7)

She also wished the charity a happy birthday. In a video posted to X, formerly Twitter, she said: 'I wish you all a very happy 50th birthday and to say a huge thank you for the brilliant job you're doing here on domestic abuse.

'I've visited a lot of refugees over the years but I can see there's something very special here and you're doing such a wonderful job in so many walks of life'.

The queen smiled as she heaped praises on the organisation: 'Em you seem to be getting in to every where - which is what is needed.

'It's not just looking after the victims or the children. It's getting into schools, teaching young people, teaching them respect and working with perpetrators too.

'And as you say who knows in 50 years we might be able to prevent this horrific abuse and suffering.'

The monarch concluded her speech by thanking the charity for its hard work once more.

'So thank you all very much for playing a wonderful part on the road to obliterating abuse forever. So thank you very much indeed'.

It comes after the King is said to be 'fine' as he prepares to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate this week.

Camilla met staff, volunteers, families and partner agencies including Wiltshire Police and Swindon Borough Council to highlight their work

She was seen making her way across the grounds, ensuring to greet everyone in attendance at the event

During her appearance at the refuge, the queen unveiled a plaque in honour of the beneficiaries and also received a bouquet of flowers, presumably gifted to her by one of the guests

She also praised the charity's brilliant work in helping victims of domestic violence and wished them a 'happy birthday'

The queen was overheard revealing the news to a member of the public during her visit in Swindon.

After visiting the women's refuge, Camilla later visited Deacon and Sons, a 175-year-old family run jewellery shop, in Swindon this afternoon.

During her time there, she also met with the chief executive officer (CEO) of Rolex UK, Richard de Leyser.

Among those outside hoping to catch a glimpse of the Queen was 86-year-old Jessie Jackson, from Swindon, who said Camilla told her the King 'is fine'.

Ms Jackson told the PA news agency she shook the Queen's hand and asked her how Charles was doing.

Camilla thanked her for asking and Jessie said of the queen: 'She's lovely'.

For her make-up, the queen donned a natural glow, enhanced only by subtle pink blush and a matching pink lip

While presiding over the charity's events, she stated her hopes for their work to continue into the future

She sported the cheeriest of smiles after unveiling a plaque at the women's refuge

The monarch concluded her speech by thanking the charity for its hard work once more

For today's events, Camilla layered the stunning coat with what appeared to be a forest-green knit jumper, a white dress blouse and a red tartan print skirt.

She teamed the look with a pair of black suede round-toe boots and accessorised with gold drop-down earrings and her signature Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra bracelet.

For her make-up, she donned a natural glow, enhanced only by a subtle pink blush and a matching pink lip.

Her short-cut tresses were laid to perfection, including a side-swept fringe which lay just above her eyebrows.

She put on animated display and appeared to be in high spirits throughout her visit to the charity.

Queen Camilla, who has worked tirelessly to support domestic abuse charities, today met staff, volunteers, families and partner agencies including Wiltshire Police and Swindon Borough Council to highlight their work.

After visiting the women's refuge, Camilla later visited Deacon and Sons, a 175-year-old family run jewellery shop, in Swindon (Pictured: the queen with managing director Richard Deacon)

Deacon and Son's is one of the oldest family run businesses in Swindon, Wilsthire

During her time there, she also met with the chief executive officer (CEO) of Rolex UK, Richard de Leyser (pictured left)

The queen was particularly interested in the Open2Change initiative that works with perpetrators and victims to eradicate abuse in relationships.

Manager Louisa Wrighton said the Queen was pleased when told that up to 75 per cent of the perpetrators they have worked with have not reoffended and was supportive of their efforts to get more funding to roll out the scheme.

Her Majesty was interested in what we do and the detail of how it works, said Louisa.

The organisation supports, and promotes prevention, education and early intervention, including work with perpetrators.

Queen Camilla also met families living in the refuge - which cannot be identified for safety reasons - and toured a residents flat, before unveiling a plaque to celebrate the charitys anniversary.

She was greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sarah Troughton, a close friend of hers, and Nicky Alberry, Chair of Trustees of SDASS.

During a short reception, she joined teams from across the organisation, including those who support families in the refuge and women, men and children in the community who have been affected by abuse.

Among those outside hoping to catch a glimpse of the Queen was 86-year-old Jessie Jackson, from Swindon, who said Camilla told her the King 'is fine' (Pictured left: Nicky Jackson, 48, and right: Jessie Jackson, 86)

Richard Deacon is pictured showing Her Majesty a case used for carriage clocks

Here, Camilla poses behind a collection of carriage clocks at the jewellery store in Swindon

She also made her way around the shop, ensuring to greet staff and guests in attendance at the event

The Queen then made a private visit to a residents flat and met current residents and their children, before joining staff, partner agencies, residents.

The charity opened its first refuge in 1975 and the one visited by Queen Camilla is one of the few purpose-built refuges in the UK offering fully self-contained accommodation.

The refuge has 20 one, two and three bedroom flats plus two emergency bedsits and can host 22 families at any one time.

In 2019, the charity rebranded as Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS) in recognition of the fact that domestic abuse affects women, men and children.

The news comes after King Charles yesterday 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 this week.

Well-wishers were seen gathering yesterday 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

Well-wishers gathered yesterday 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 her abdominal operation at London Clinic near Regent's Park this week.

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 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
She tried out the hack which saw her crush birth control pills into shampoo

A woman has revealed a very controversial shampoo trick - claiming it keeps her locks healthier than ever.

New York-based Tita Tots, 27, has always had problems with growing her hair but was getting tired of damage caused by botched extensions.

Having previously paid $1,000 for a set that fell out just days later, she's now found a new solution.

Tita says her Cuban grandmother recommended the bizarre home remedy - crushing birth control pills into her shampoo bottle.

New York-based Tita Tots, 27, has revealed a very controversial shampoo trick - claiming it keeps her locks healthier than ever

Tita says her Cuban grandmother recommended the bizarre home remedy - crushing birth control pills into her shampoo bottle

In a reel uploaded to Instagram, Tita explains the process to her 22,300 followers.

'My grandmother has always told me to put birth control in [shampoo] and it will grow super fast and thick but I never had birth control to spare.

'She came to visit and brought me a pack so I crushed up eight pills and put in the shampoo and used like usual.'

The influencer claims the pills have made all the difference and now swears by the bizarre hack.

'In three months, my hair has never been this long or thick.

'I still have half of a bottle of my shampoo. I just use it like normal [and] I still have probably like 15 pills in the pack so when I run out, I can do it again!

'One thing about [grandmothers] is they have the craziest tricks that they swear by and honestly most of them work.

'For me, I have the implant in my arm and I get the birth control from my grandma.

'She brought a bunch back from Cuba just for her hair.'

The influencer claims the pills have made all the difference and now swears by the bizarre hack

Having previously hit the headlines for paying $1,000 for a set that fell out just days later, she's now found a new solution

Instagram users aren't all that convinced though, with many sharing their shock at the method.

One user said: 'Girl it's $30 a month and I can only get one a month, I'm not having my period to get better hair.'

Another joked: 'Currently cutting out the implant to put into my shampoo bottle.'

A third added: 'Will I get the same results if I use my NuvaRing as a hair tie??'

Someone else commented: 'I don't think anyone just has a whole eight to 10 spare birth control pills to use on their hair. That's weird. You know how expensive birth control can be anyways.'

'Someone tell me if this is a joke because I want to try,' said another.

Tita also recently visited her hairdresser and claims they were left stunned by the speedy growth.

'I actually just went to my hair stylist recently and she was in disbelief.

'She has seen first-hand how damaged my hair was. She could not believe how fast it grew and how thick and healthy it was!'

Instagram users aren't all that convinced though, with many sharing their shock at the method and she shared that 'the reaction online is mostly shock'

But Dr. Lawrence Cunningham has weighed in on the controversial hair growth method, warning that it's not all it's cracked up to be.

'In my experience, there isn't any robust scientific evidence to support the claim that birth control pills applied to shampoo can promote hair growth or improve the health of your hair.

'Oral contraceptives are designed to work within the body's endocrine system, and their efficacy, as far as I have seen, is not linked to the health of hair when used in this way.

'When I have been asked about unconventional uses of medication, I always recommend caution.

'Using birth control in shampoo is not a standard practice, and there is a possibility of skin irritation or even hormonal disturbances.'
I expect to see my name in the headlines today. Thankfully not for anything naughty... I hope!

It's because the Academy Award nominations are being announced.

So, as Hollywood gets excited about a different 'Oscar', I'll content myself knowing that with Venus leaving Sagittarius, we're entering more stable emotional territory.

It's time to appreciate and reward the people who give us love and joy.

ARIES

March 21 - April 20

When we invest our time into doing something, we get good at it. If we play the guitar every day, we become good guitarists. If we jog, we become good runners. But what about our more negative habits? Like worrying? Or feeling frustrated? We have to make an effort not to do too much of these things, otherwise we start to get good at them too. In your world now, a pattern is repeating. If you're happy with it, great. If you're not, do something to change it. Start by taking time to do less of one thing... and more of another.

Oscar Cainer (pictured) says it's time to appreciate those who give us love and joy

What does your heart desire and how can you achieve what you really want? See your in-depth forecasts at cainer.com

TAURUS

April 21 - May 21

No matter how much time has gone by it's never too late to apologise. And, if we realise that we're doing something that's bad for us, we can always instigate a change and start doing things differently. Just because we do things in a certain way doesn't mean we can't alter our MO. With your ruler, Venus, moving into earthy Capricorn, if you want to improve a relationship, an arrangement or the quality of your daily life, there are lots of constructive steps you can take that will bring all these things, and more, into your world.

Curious to know more? There's always valuable news in your in-depth forecasts at cainer.com

GEMINI

May 22 - June 22

You're an excellent communicator. Not only are you good at articulating information in an accessible way, you're good at listening too. Which means people tend to look at you and think that if they share their problems with you, you'll be able to solve them. It's one thing to be helpful. It's another to negate your own needs in order to focus on other people's. Even if your regular role in life is to be giving and kind, there's a limit that you have to identify (and enforce) for the sake of your self-worth. It's OK (and right) to say no sometimes.

Success is about attitude and timing. Your in-depth forecasts show the way to positive change. Visit cainer.com

CANCER

June 23 - July 23

There's always supposed to be a reason for everything. And, of course, the reason is always supposed to make sense. Which makes you wonder about some of the situations you've been dealing with; some of them are so ridiculous you're just about managing to cope. Working out why they're happening (let alone what good they could be bringing) is beyond you. Until now. As Venus moves into your opposite sign it brings inspiration. You'll be able to appreciate what you've done. And see how it's enabling you to progress.

You've got lots to look forward to. The inspiration you need is in your in-depth forecasts at cainer.com

LEO

July 24 - August 23

If it feels like you need to force, push or fight to move on with a plan, it's a sure sign that you're misinterpreting something. The situation you're dealing with is sensitive. All you really need is to be kind, thoughtful and compassionate. Showing patience would be good too. It's surprisingly easy for you to underestimate the amount of power you can manifest just by being true to yourself. Make subtle enquiries today. And smile. That's all the pressure you need to apply. Honest, heartfelt gestures will bring about the change you desire.

Knowledge is power. Find out how to take full advantage of your astrological assets at cainer.com

VIRGO

August 24 - September 23

When we care for people, we make ourselves vulnerable. We can be hurt by the things they say or do. When we lower our emotional shields, we get defensive when we feel threatened. Where there's passion, there's always a potential for problems. Intuitively we understand this. That's why we try to limit our involvement with people or situations. But a life without empathy and enthusiasm isn't the kind of life you want to lead. Don't worry about the price you might have to pay for following your heart now. It will be worth it.

What's in the sky for you? Helpful planetary alignments! For good news, see your in-depth forecasts at cainer.com

LIBRA

September 24 - October 23

In the great ballroom of life, we're all dancers. We're constantly adapting to its varying rhythms, and doing our best to avoid stepping on anyone's toes. As Venus, your ruler, changes signs, you're moving with grace and skill. But it needs time to settle into Capricorn before you find a supportive partner to join you on your next enterprise. Meanwhile, enjoy the moves you're making. And be open to sharing your ideas. When you send out signals that indicate you're ready to work cooperatively, you'll find you're spoilt for choice.

Make the most of your opportunities. Your in-depth forecast have inspiring news at cainer.com

SCORPIO

October 24 - November 22

I recently rewatched Ghostbusters. What a great movie. 'If there's something strange in your neighbourhood, who you gonna call?' If only there was a team you could call on to help deal with your current challenge. There are no ghosts involved, but a situation from the past has returned to haunt you; you're feeling so nostalgic it's hard to focus on what's going on. You can't shake off a sense of sadness. But you're about to benefit from your ruler's move into Aquarius. It's the cosmic equivalent of a mood-shifter arriving in your world. Phew!

Transform your life! To move forwards in a positive direction, there's good news when you visit cainer.com

With Venus (pictured, file image) leaving Sagittarius, we're entering more stable emotional territory

SAGITTARIUS

November 23 - December 21

The fact that Venus is leaving your sign might (by some astrologers) be interpreted as a loss. But I'd like to suggest this is a positive development. You've been feeling hypersensitive and vulnerable. There has been too much irrational emotion, and not enough reassuring logical explanation. As the planet of love settles into earthy Capricorn, you'll have access to a more grounded way of thinking and being. It will enable you to consolidate on recent experiences, and find ways to build on your relationships, in a deeply satisfying way.

For advice to guide you through the twists and turns ahead, see your in-depth forecasts at cainer.com

CAPRICORN

December 22 - January 20

Your sense of security and wellbeing is entering a new phase. As Venus moves into your sign, and joins Mercury and Mars, you're about to be able to let your guard down and be less defensive. As your sense of obligation lessens, the objectives that you set at the start of the year will become easier to reach. Expect life to run more smoothly, and any challenges to be less demanding than they first look. You're embarking on a different kind of adventure. It will be more fulfilling, and more sociable than you've been used to. Good.

How can you stay focused and happy? Your in-depth forecasts hold the advice you need. cainer.com

AQUARIUS

January 21 - February 19

They say that 'the limits of the possible can only be defined by going beyond them, into the impossible'. But then, 'they' say many things. And I'm not sure about you, but I'm not sure who 'they' are! Still, this saying is worth bearing in mind today. With Pluto (renewal) settling into your sign, you can redefine what's possible in your life. And, if you do, you'll find it's possible to achieve things you previously thought were impossible. Transformation is in the air. Wherever you need change in your world, you can start to instigate it.

For excellent advice to guide you through the twists and turns ahead. cainer.com

PISCES

February 20 - March 20

Although we like to think of ourselves as being free-thinking, open-minded people, we all have tunnel vision. Our perspective is restricted by our past experiences. Which is probably just as well! If we knew too much about our route forwards into the future, we might find ourselves with too much info (and not enough understanding). Then we might be nervous of the wrong things. Still though, our blinkered-vision can stop us appreciating the full picture. In your world now, there's more to a story than meets the eye. Be attentive today.

There's no need to worry. All you need is some guidance. Your in-depth forecasts can help at cainer.com
One of Australia's most iconic lolly brands is getting a new look in an effort to drastically cut down on the amount of plastic used in its packaging.

Allen's will overhaul its packaging for its lollies and replace the signature red shiny bags with a matte finish and new designs.

Multi-national food and drink conglomerate Nestle, which owns the lolly brand, revealed the change would be made as the company gets tough on plastic.

The change will mean 21 per cent less plastic will be used in the bags, which equates to about 58 tonnes a year.

The new packaging will be found on fan-favourites such as Snakes Alive, Killer Pythons and Party Mix.

One of Australia's most iconic confectionary brands will be getting a rebrand in an attempt to reduce plastic use (pictured, confectionary aisle)

Nestle's head of confectionary marketing Melanie Chen said that of the numerous changes to Allen's packaging this was the most important.

'Allen's lollies are here to bring smiles to Australians, and we want to keep doing that while reducing our impact on the environment, with a focus on reducing the amount of plastic we have in our packaging,' Ms Chen told news.com.au.

'While Allen's lolly bags will look and feel different, we believe Aussies will welcome this move towards using less plastic so they can enjoy their Allen's lollies even more.'

The iconic cartoon characters on the front of the packaging will also be getting a redesign.

Ms Chen said the new designs will help herald in the new era of Allen's using less plastic without changing their famous lollies.

It's the latest in Nestle-owned confectionary to change their packaging in an effort to reduce plastic use.

The range of Allen's lollies, including Snakes Alive, will be getting a matte finish to reduce the amount of plastic by about 21 percent (pictured: old packaging left, new packaging right)

The company announced in October the packaging on KitKat chocolate bars would now have the highest proportion of recycled plastic of any major Australian food brand at 90 per cent.

'We hope this wrapper does more than just reduce virgin plastic use. We hope it's a reminder of the circular potential for soft plastics,' at Nestle's Director of Corporate affairs and Sustainability, Margaret Stuart said at the time.

'We're continuing to work with industry and the value chain to see a future where Australian used plastic can be collected and turned into soft plastic food packaging.'
Australians shoppers who use Apple Pay have discovered a little-known detail on their smart phones and watches that makes getting refunds much easier.

Retails workers are often required to match the card numbers on a receipt with the customer's physical bank card to process refunds and avoid fraudulent transactions.

However many have found the numbers don't match if they used Apple Pay on their devices to pay for their items.

The last four card digits shown on Apple Pay receipts is the Device Account Number and are specific to each person's phone or watch.

Shoppers can easily find their Device Account Number in their Apple Wallet app if asked to match the receipt while getting a refund.

Australian shoppers have discovered a little-known detail about Apple Pay that makes processing refunds much easier (stock image)

But many say they have had trouble getting their money back on Apple Pay as some retail workers aren't aware of the differing digits.

The Device Account Number can be found in Apple Wallet. Tap the card used to make the purchase and then tap the ellipses icon in the top right corner.

Select the 'Card Details' option and a new page will appear with the card number and Apple Pay number.

'Whenever you add a payment card to Apple Pay, that combination of card and device (Apple Watch, iPhone or iPad) is given a unique Device Account Number,' a technophile explained online.

Apple Pay transactions have a Device Account Number found in the Apple Wallet app. The number appears on Apple Pay transaction receipts instead of the card number

'Using this number instead of your actual card number forms part of Apple Pay's built-in security measures that help to protect your data during payment transactions.'

Australians online were wowed by the discovery and were surprised it wasn't more well known.

'Was a manager at a supermarket. Can confirm that card numbers differ to the phone pay-wave functions. But no one seems to notice,' one man said.

'This is really good to know!' another said.

'Turns out if you pay with your watch, even though it's linked with your phone, you have to go to the watch settings on your phone and then into the wallet info - not just the wallet settings on your phone. Now I know, thanks,' a third explained.
He said he is happy they have 'stayed together and persevered'

King Frederik of Denmark has shared a rare glimpse into what his wife Queen Mary is like in private.

The newly-appointed monarch said Mary has taught him he is 'not always right' or 'automatically believed' just because of his gender.

In an excerpt from his new 110-page memoir Kongeord, which translates as The King's Word, he revealed Mary, 51, calls him out on what he learned from his 'patriarchal' father growing up.

The surprise 'manifesto' was released on Wednesday and was co-authored by Jens Andersen who wrote Frederik's biography in 2017.

Amid thoughts on his role as king and his plans for the future, the 55-year-old appeared to hint at recent rumours about his alleged 'affair' with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova after they were photographed on a night out together in Madrid last year.

'I love marriage, my wife, our children and the whole happy base that arises for the people who manage to stay together and persevere,' he wrote.

King Frederik of Denmark has shared rare details about his relationship with his wife Mary saying she is his 'partner and wing woman'

The newly-appointed monarch said Mary has taught him he is 'not always right' or 'automatically believed' just because of his gender

Frederik said Mary is his 'partner and wing woman' with whom he has a 'super dynamic'.

He described his father Prince Henrik as 'very patriarchal' and said he tried to pass on his outdated views to him and his brother Joachim.

'Here, however, I have learned a lot from having a wife who from time to time reminds me that I am of course not always right and that my words are not reliable per se, just because I'm the man of the house,' he said.

'Although I can sometimes catch myself thinking, "Oh, do we really need five more minutes of discussion?", I accept that Mary would like to turn over a few more stones and then we'll take five or ten minutes more.'

Frederik said his mother Queen Margrethe even acknowledged the couple's compatibility when they got married.

The pair met at the Slip Inn pub in Sydney during the 2000 Olympics and started making public appearances together a few years later

'I remember how my mother, Queen Margrethe, said in her wedding speech in 2004 that I had found peace and joy with Mary,' he said.

The pair met at the Slip Inn pub in Sydney during the 2000 Olympics and started making public appearances together a few years later.

Frederik officially ascended the throne on January 14 after Queen Margrethe, 83, stepped down following her 52-year reign.

The book was released just three days later and quickly become a best seller with a spokeswoman for Saxo telling Danish media that 25 copies have sold each minute, according to the BBC.

It is based on more than year's worth of interviews with Jens Anderson, the author of Frederik's 2017 biography, Under the Beam.

Readers will be taken through Frederik's life going from a young prince to a father of four then king.

It will also reveal details of his relationships with family members, fellow royals and his marriage.
An urgent warning has been issued to beachgoers about the unforgiving nature of ocean rips and the worst time to swim.

The Bronte Surf Life Saving Club in New South Wales shared a photo of the beach from above to show the dangerous and permanent rip current on the south end in full force.

While the 'tranquil' gap in the waves tends to look 'inviting', life savers warned it's the most dangerous spot to swim - even moreso after 7pm when the guards go home for the day. The warning was issued after the latest in a string of rescues at 8pm.

The club published a warning on social media, reminding swimmers that 'green water is not good water' and to consider swapping the sea for the ocean pool once the patrol period ends.

The rip can be seen as a passage of water or 'river of sea' between breaking waves. Currents are so strong even the best swimmers would struggle going up against it.

The Bronte Surf Life Saving Club in New South Wales shared a photo of the beach from above where a dangerous and permanent rip (left of the image) looks like the most appealing place to swim

The club published a warning on social media, reminding swimmers that 'green water is not good water' and to consider swapping the sea for the ocean pool once the patrol period ends

'Commonly where the beach looks most inviting at Bronte is the most dangerous spot in Sydney at the moment!' the post read.

'Where you see white water and waves usually to the north is where the red and yellow flags go up. It is where the waves tend to push you back to shore.'

The reason why there are no flags at the south end of Bronte Beach is because there's permanent rip there.

'The green water in the south end is where all the water escapes and heads back out to sea (along with people sadly) and this is the No Swim area at Bronte,' the post continued.

'Let's make life a bit easier for the Lifeguards, Lifesavers and local surfers by only swimming between the red and yellow flags or if you are a weak swimmer go jump in the pool.

'The Lifeguards leave the beach at 7pm, and this is the time we ask to avoid the ocean but take advantage of the pool and stay safe this summer.'

The reason why there are no flags at the south end of Bronte Beach is because there's permanent rip there

How to survive a rip tide: Lifeguard provides a simple tip to avoid drowning in potentially fatal ocean conditions Wyatt Werneth served as the chief lifeguard for Brevard County in Florida from 1999 until 2008. He suggested staying calm and merely keeping afloat was key to surviving a rip current Advertisement

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, rip currents can be narrow or hundreds of meters long, and are of ten referred to by lifeguards as 'drowning machines'.

The post was 'liked' by more than 2,500 people and hundreds left a comment.

'This information should be shared and shown on ALL incoming International flights to Australia,' one commented.

Another wrote: 'Thank you for this great picture and green is mean reference. I swam at Bronte every summer in my youth and never heard that expression before. I'll take note of this now in my hometown beaches of Port Macquarie.'
A British woman living in Australia has shared the common Aussie beach habit she loves.

Jordana Grace said one of her favourite things about going to the beach in Australia is how everyone leaves their shoes at the entrance.

The expat said it was a 'culture shock' to realise no one will steal her shoes if she leaves them unattended while she walks on the sand.

'Things they need to tell you before travelling to Australia, a little beach thing that just makes my day,' she said in an online video.

'I don't know if this is the same around Australia but here in the Sunshine Coast, you leave your shoes by the beach and they're still there when you get back and I just love it.'

British expat Jordana Grace (pictured) said she had a 'culture shock' when she saw Aussie leaving their shoes behind at the beach

Jordana took her shoes off leaving them by a fence before going on a walk and was delighted to find they had not been touched upon her return.

Many Aussies said they do the same thing calling it an 'unwritten rule' of the beach.

'Happens here down in South Australia to all the beaches around me,' one woman said.

'I mean, who's going to take them?' asked another.

'Yep it's a thing however do this with caution my ones were stolen they were my nice ones so that's probably why but my $2 blue ones going strong,' warned a third.

Jordana said one of her favourite things about going to the beach in Australia is how everyone leaves their shoes at the entrance

'I was at a beach in Melbourne and couldn't understand why all my friends told me it's fine to leave our valuables behind while we were having a swim!' someone added.

However others said they had 'never seen' beachgoers leave their shoes before.

'Have never seen this done. Normally the sand is too hot to walk on without shoes/thongs/sandals,' one person wrote.

'Maybe on quieter beaches, 25 years ago I left my sparkly jellies near Bondi sea pool, came out of the water and they were gone. Have never recovered,' a second recalled.
An American living in Sydney couldn't believe how 'simple' it is flying domestically in Australia.

Logan Wein travelled to Melbourne for the Australian Open and was shocked when he wasn't asked for ID by airport security.

'Flying domestically in Australia is so simple compared to the United States,' he said in a TikTok video.

After arriving at the airport he claimed he passed through security 'within 90 seconds'.

'They don't check your ID before going through security, they don't check your boarding pass,' he said.

'It's just so foreign to me because the US is obviously much more strict when it comes to flying - whether it's domestically or internationally.'

American expat Logan Wein was travelling from Sydney to Melbourne and was surprised at how 'simple' it is travelling domestically in Australia. After arriving at the airport he claimed he passed through security 'within 90 seconds'

Logan was stunned yet again after boarding the flight and finding his seat.

'When I got on the flight they didn't even check for an ID or anything, I just showed them the boarding pass,' he said in a second video.

'So essentially any male could have gotten on this flight with my boarding pass, and that freaking blows my mind.'

'Aussies - I apologise for being annoying but this legit blows my mind. I've been to many countries but this is new to me.'

Logan's first video has since been viewed more than 332,000 times and a conversation sparked in the comments.

'They don't check ID or boarding pass before security because you can go right up to the gate even if you're not travelling - [like] seeing off loved ones,' one wrote.

However, this isn't the case for international flights - only domestic.

Many also advised he'd have a different experience when flying overseas into and out of Australia as the security is far more strict.

Someone else wrote: 'I know over here in New Zealand some domestic flights don't even have security to go through.'

Others commented on how 'strict' and 'aggressive' American security is compared to Australia.

'Travelling in the states gives me anxiety. I was held in LAX for an hour due to leaving my Kindle in my bag. There was a queue and they don't care,' one wrote.

'Our security team are so much nicer than the US - why are they so aggressive over there?' another added.
Travellers rave about Hyams Beach with the whitest sand in the world

A pristine beach with some of the whitest sands in Australia is drawing in travellers from across the country.

Hyams Beach, near Jervis Bay on New South Wales' South Coast, is a 2.5 hour drive from Sydney and has been described as 'heaven on earth' by visitors.

The coastal haven has a stretching shore of squeaky sugar-white sands by calm and vibrant turquoise waters.

The gorgeous spot is perfect for those who are after a relaxing weekend getaway, a family escape or an adventurous snorkel in the crystal clear sea.

The idyllic paradise also sits on the edge of Booderee National Park giving hikers and walkers plenty of nearby bushland to explore.

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The pristine Hyams Beach is attracting attention as travellers flock to its stretching shore of squeaky sugar-white sands by calm and vibrant turquoise waters

Hyams Beach is near Jervis Bay on New South Wales' South Coast is a short 2.5 hour drive from Sydney

Hyams Beach is home to the whitest sands in Australia and it earned 10th place in Enjoy Travel's 50 Best Beaches In The World list in August of last year

Beachgoers should keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, resident bottlenose dolphins and fur seals and they may be lucky enough to share the shore with little penguins.

Hyams Beach is home to the whitest sands in Australia and it earned 10th place in Enjoy Travel's 50 Best Beaches In The World list in August of last year.

The incredible beach has caught the attention of thousands on social media leaving many dreaming of a seaside getaway.

'I was at that Hyams beach five years ago, like heaven on earth...Australia has a lot of beautiful places for enjoying,' one woman said.

Hyams Beach can get busy during the summer however there is plenty of room on the expansive shore so it doesn't feel overcrowded

Beachgoers should keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, resident bottlenosed dolphins and fur seals and they may be lucky enough to share the shore with little penguins

Parking is limited so many opted to leave their cars at a nearby beach and stroll down White Sands Walk past more gems of the Booderee National Park

'This is a true paradise beach. It's absolutely stunning. It's one of the best I've been to. Famous for having one of the 'whitest' sand in Australia/World? Not only is it white, but it is silky smooth,' a second said.

'A go to spot in Jervis Bay, this is stunning, hard to describe as the Hyams experience must be seen with your own eyes. White sand, blue ocean, easy swim,' a third gushed.

Hyams Beach can get busy during the summer however there is plenty of room on the expansive shore so it doesn't feel overcrowded.

Parking is limited so many opted to leave their cars at a nearby beach and stroll down White Sands Walk past more gems of the Booderee National Park.
MBABANE  EmaSwati, through the Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project Phase I (LUSIP I), have continued to benefit immensely from the project even after EWADE had left it in their hands.

As such, a total of E33 604 522.19 was declared as dividends to 2 487 shareholders (in 44 sugar cane farmers companies) in the year 2022/2023, which is a 70.5 per cent increase from E19 374 810.20 declared in the year 2021/2022.

Dividends

According to the Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (EWADE), the significant increase was noted above from the increase of sugar cane revenue. It was reported that there were no dividends declared under the diversified businesses during this period as farms were still servicing their loan obligations. It is worth noting that LUSIP I has reached the end of its project life and has since been handed over to the farmers. The goal of the project was to reduce poverty and sustain improvement in the standard of living of the population in the project area through commercialisation and intensification of agriculture.

To date, the LUSIP I has formed and registered 98 farmer groups and of these, 56 are operational sugar cane farmer companies, three Banana farms, 1 Livestock farm and four (high value crop and horticulture project (HVCHP) operational farmer companies. A total of 6 261.6ha has been developed for agricultural production against the target of 6 500ha. This total is made up of 5 017.9 ha for sugar cane and 1 243.7ha for alternative crops which include banana, pitaya, papaya and vegetables (greenhouse tunnels and piggeries).

Season

The total area of sugar cane harvested for the 2022/2023 season was 5 027.02ha compared to 4 949.6 ha harvested in 2021/2022. This reportedly showed an increase of 1.6 per cent of area harvested. The 5 027.02ha produced 459 453.70 tonnes of cane which is a 1.6 per cent increase from the previous years performance of 452 361. This was mainly due to the increase in the area harvested which yielded more cane. The average yields for LUSIP I farmers in 2022/2023 stood at 94.79 tonnes cane per ha (TCH) (2021: 91.4 TCH), and 13.6 per cent sucrose (2021:13.0 per cent). The gross revenue from sugar cane was E434 169 870.04 calculated at E4 833.59 at estimate 5/6 (before tax), which was an increase by 83 per cent from E237 209 607.03 (before tax) reported in the year 2021/2022.

Revenue

The significant increase in recorded revenue was due to the increase in price/ tonne of sugar cane (2022: E4 833.59 from 2021: E4 230.70) together with the sucrose levels which increased from 13.0 to 13.6 per cent. The gross revenue from diversified agribusinesses under this reporting period was E8 491 437.76, a 15.9 per cent increase from E7 323 663 reported in the year 2021/2022. This was due to more areas developed, planted and harvested under banana (73.1ha harvested in 2021 to 91.4ha in 2022) which attracted high returns (from E3 200/tonne in 2021 to E4 200/tonne in 2022).
A world-first malaria vaccination campaign began today, sparking hopes that the mosquito-borne illness will one day be eradicated.

Almost 30million jabs will be dished out over the next few months in sub-Saharan Africa, starting with Cameroon.

Over a dozen countries, including Uganda, Kenya and Ghana, are gearing up to embark on their own vaccination drives in 2024.

Top experts hailed the roll-out as a milestone in the decades-long quest to thwart malaria, an illness that kills 600,000 people every year.

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

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Two malaria jabs have been approved in the last three years. Cameroon's roll-out involves Mosquirix, developed by GlaxoSmithKline. It has already been rolled out to almost two million children in countries including Ghana, Kenya and Malawi under pilot programmes

Early warning signs can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and nausea.

With treatment, most cases are not fatal. Yet in the severe stage, the disease quickly leads to death.

Two malaria jabs have been approved in the last three years. Cameroon's roll-out involves Mosquirix, developed by GlaxoSmithKline.

It has already been rolled out to almost two million children in countries including Ghana, Kenya and Malawi under pilot programmes.

While the trial schemes began in Burkina Faso and Mali in 2017 and in Kenya, Ghana and Malawi in 2018 to assess the best method and time of year for administering the vaccine, it didn't receive approval until 2021, allowing it to be used in a full roll-out.

READ MORE: New malaria vaccine is only the 2nd to win an endorsement from the World Health Organization - and this shot is more effective and less expensive Advertisement

Studies showed the jab, given alongside antimalarial drugs before the rainy season, slashes the number of malaria deaths and severe cases in children by almost two-thirds.

Malaria epidemics can often occur after periods of unusually heavy rainfall.

A similarly-effective second jab developed by scientists at Oxford University and produced by the Serum Institute of India is set to be delivered in seven countries from May or June.

Professor Umberto DAlessandro, director of the Medical Research Council Gambia (MRCG) at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) said: 'Making the vaccine available as a routine vaccination is only possible thanks to decades of work by researchers in Africa working with international partners, with clinical trials at MRCG at LSHTM starting back in 1997.

'The support of volunteers and communities both in The Gambia and the region has been vital in showing that Mosquirix, the worlds first malaria vaccine, was safe and could save lives.'

She said it 'can be rolled out across malaria-prone regions worldwide and help to revive malaria control efforts that had recently stalled'.

Globally in 2022, there were an estimated 249million malaria cases and 608,000 deaths in 85 countries.

Approximately 40million children live in countries affected by malaria and in 2021, 80 per cent of cases detected in the Africa region were among children under five years old.

Kids, as well as pregnant women and travelers with no immunity to the malaria-causing parasite, are at the highest risk of severe infection and death.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a schedule of four doses in children from around five months of age, with all four to be completed within two years of birth.

A fifth dose will be considered after one year in areas of high risk.

Health officials hope to line up malaria vaccinations with other jabs, including measles, to help increase uptake.

It has already been rolled out to almost two million children in countries including Ghana, Kenya and Malawi under pilot programmes. While the trial schemes began in Burkina Faso and Mali in 2017 and in Kenya, Ghana and Malawi in 2018 to assess the best method and time of year for administering the vaccine, it didn't receive approval until 2021, allowing it to be used in a full roll-out. Pictured, the trial in the Malawi village of Migowi in December 2019

Globally in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries, according to World Health Organization figures. Approximately 40 million children live in countries affected by malaria and in 2021, 80 percent of malaria cases detected in the Africa region were among children under five years old, up from 72 percent in 2015

Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Early warning signs can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and nausea. With treatment, most cases are not fatal. Yet in the severe stage, the disease quickly leads to death

More than 30 countries across the continent have expressed an interest in receiving malaria jabs.

Up to 18million doses of the Mosquirix vaccine are set to be distributed by Gavi, with an extra 10million from the second jab, R21, from mid-2024.

A third of a million doses were delivered to Yaounde, the Cameroonian capital, in November to allow time for health authorities in the west African nation to train healthcare workers in the storage and delivery of the vaccine.

Mosquirix works by inducing an immune response to an antigen found on the surface of the Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite injected by female Anopheles mosquitoes into the bloodstream.

Professor DAlessandro added: 'Crucially, an LSHTM coordinated five-year trial in Burkina Faso and Mali, which began in 2017, showed that vaccinating with RTS,S before the rainy season, alongside the use of antimalarial drugs, reduced cases of severe malaria in children and deaths by nearly two thirds.

GSK has said it can only produce around 15 million doses of Mosquirix per year.

Some experts believe the second R21 jab, approved by the WHO last October, may be a more practical solution.

That vaccine is cheaper, requires three doses and India's Serum Institute said they could make up to 200million doses a year.
Trendy fitness apps might raise the risk of injury, claims an A-list trainer.

London-based PT Dalton Wong, whose clients have included Jennifer Lawrence, Kit Harington and Olivia Colman, warned people are often overly focused on gaining a 'stupid score that means nothing in real life'.

As a result, he said users could easily hurt themselves by pushing too far.

Advocates of AI fitness apps, such as Whoop and Freeletics, say they make healthy lifestyles more accessible by letting people track their progress in their own homes.

Many integrate motion tracking technology to assess movement and exercise form, offering instant feedback and corrections. Others use predictive analytics to forecast and set fitness goals by analysing past performance data.

London -based PT Dalton Wong (pictured) warned people are often overly focused on gaining a 'stupid score that means nothing in real life'. As a result, he said users could easily hurt themselves by pushing too far

Some AI-powered apps even allow users to earn points or coins for completing workouts and rank their performance on leaderboards giving them the opportunity to move up into different leagues. Often they track body's data including heart rate, blood oxygen levels and calories burned. Mr Wong, whose clients have included Jennifer Lawrence (pictured), criticised the 'gamification of fitness', however

He told The Times: 'It's just a workout. There's nothing personal about it. When you're fatigued you have other issues happening in your body that AI can't and won't pick up.' Pictured, Jennifer Lawrence, a PT client of Mr Wong

Some even allow users to earn points or coins for completing workouts and rank their performance on leaderboards giving them the opportunity to move up into different leagues.

Often they track body's data including heart rate, blood oxygen levels and calories burned.

Mr Wong criticised the 'gamification of fitness', however.

He told The Times: 'I'm training at a level that I need to be just so I can complete the gamification of my app, sacrificing my health in the process.

'Your pain might be at a ten, but the app says keep moving through it, you're fine  then you can injure yourself.

'When you're talking to me and I see you straining, I'll say "okay, maybe we should calm down".'

He added: 'It's just a workout. There's nothing personal about it. When you're fatigued you have other issues happening in your body that AI can't and won't pick up.'

Studies have long shown over-exercising can trigger muscle breakdown, raise the risk of bone fractures or even developing potentially fatal heart problems.

Mr Wong advised Brits with known ailments to first consult a physio or osteopath to check which exercises they should avoid on such apps. Pictured right with activewear CEO Anjhe Mules and chef Jason Marcus in 2018

One report by BCC Research estimated the global market for fitness apps was worth $15billion (11.8billion) in 2022, with it forecast to jump to $34.3billion (26.9billion) by 2027. Pictured, Kit Harington, a PT client of Mr Wong

Studies have long shown over-exercising can trigger muscle breakdown, raise the risk of bone fractures or even developing potentially fatal heart problems. Pictured, Olivia Colman, a PT client of Mr Wong

Excessive exercise also risks elevating levels of cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone.

Mr Wong advised Brits with known ailments to first consult a physio or osteopath to check which exercises they should avoid on such apps.

It comes as one report by BCC Research estimated the global market for fitness apps was worth $15billion (11.8billion) in 2022, with it forecast to jump to $34.3billion (26.9billion) by 2027.

Apps using AI, including Aaptiv, FitnessAI, Fitbod, Freeletics, VI Trainer, and Whoop, track workout movements and offer instant feedback and suggestions.

Often they track body's data including heart rate, blood oxygen levels and calories burned.

London-based AI fitness software firm Magic AI this month reported that it had been inundated with orders.

Its Magic Mirror, a touch-screen mirror that plays videos of an AI-powered trainer which guides users through workouts, cannot ship to new customers until March due to demand.

Experts have suggested a rising number of people are asking popular AI chatbot ChatGPT to devise workouts for them.
Britain's heart death hotspots are named and shamed in an interactive map which shows how every area of the country fares.

It comes after renowned experts today warned the NHS is suffering its 'worst heart care crisis in living memory'.

Alarming data revealed that premature deaths from cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, have hit their highest level in more than a decade.

But the burden is not being felt equally across the UK.

MailOnline can reveal that heart death rates among under-75s are up to three times higher in cities like Glasgow, Manchester and Blackpool than in Rutland.

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Early heart deaths had tumbled since the 60s thanks to plummeting smoking rates, advanced surgical techniques and breakthroughs such as stents and statins.

But six decades of progress have been reversed by the toll of obesity, diabetes and undiagnosed high blood pressure.

Long waits for tests and treatment are also fueling the problem, as are the knock-on effects of the Covid pandemic and recent industrial action by medics.

British Heart Foundation analysis showed Glasgow City saw the highest death rate from cardiovascular disease between 2018 and 2020.

Some 136.4 people out of every 100,000 died from such ailments, nearly double the UK average.

READ MORE: A troubling legacy of long waiting lists and sedentary lifestyles, writes professor of cardiovascular medicine Chris Gale While my clinic sees patients rapidly, the heart care waiting list across England is 72 per cent greater than in February 2020 (Pictured, Professor Chris Gale) Advertisement

At the other end of the scale, Rutland in the East Midlands had the fewest deaths per 100,000 people (36.8).

The stats have been age-standardised, meaning they aren't skewed by districts that are home to a bigger proportion of pensioners. As such, the figures are worked out by assuming each area has the same make-up of residents by age  rather than raw numbers of deaths.

BHF officials warned such 'heartbreaking' deaths have hit their highest level in over a decade.

The BHF analysis also revealed heart disease killed 80 out of every 100,000 people in England in 2022  the highest rate since 2011, when it was 83.

Heart fatalities in the under-75s have risen for three consecutive years.

The BHF said it was a 'clear reversal in the trend for almost 60 years' and a sign the death toll from heart disease was rising again.

Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, associate medical director at the BHF and a consultant cardiologist, said: 'We're in the grip of the worst heart care crisis in living memory.

'Every part of the system providing heart care is damaged, from prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery; to crucial research that could give us faster and better treatments.

'This is happening at a time when more people are getting sicker and need the NHS more than ever.

'I find it tragic that we've lost hard-won progress to reduce early death from cardiovascular disease.'

The BHF said that even before the rise in death rates began in 2019, there had been a 'significant slowdown' in the rate of improvement since 2012.

Between 2012 and 2019, the premature death rate for cardiovascular disease in the UK fell by just 11 per cent, compared with 33 per cent between 2005 and 2012.

More than 39,000 people died prematurely of cardiovascular conditions including heart attacks, coronary heart disease and strokes in 2022  an average of 750 a week. This is the highest annual total since 2008.

This chart shows the mortality rate for cardiovascular disease in the under 75s in England (blue bars) which is the number of deaths per 100,000 people as well as sheer number of deaths (red line). Medical breakthroughs and advanced screening techniques helped lower these figures from 2004, but progress began to stall in the early 2010s before reversing in the last few years of data

Dr Babu-Narayan added: 'Increasing pressure in recent years on the NHS and the impact of the Covid pandemic are likely to have contributed to things getting worse, but warning signs have been present long before.

'Since 2010, decades of progress in cutting deaths from heart disease has stalled and the health gap between rich and poor has markedly widened.

'People living in the most deprived parts of England have been getting sicker and rates of some cardiovascular conditions have increased.

'Millions of people are living with undiagnosed risk factors such as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and diabetes, and nearly two thirds of adults in England have a weight classed as overweight or obese. This is storing up even more problems for the future.'

BHF chief executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths said the figures painted a 'heart-breaking picture'.

She added: 'For more than half a century, pioneering research and medical advances helped us make huge strides towards reducing heart attack and stroke deaths.

But this has been followed by a lost decade of progress in which far too many people have lost loved ones to cardiovascular disease too soon.

'We can stop this heartbreak, but only if politicians unite to address the preventable causes of heart disease; cut long waiting lists for people who need lifesaving heart and stroke care; and help power scientific breakthroughs to unlock revolutionary new treatments and cures.'

Helen Williams, NHS England's national adviser for cardiovascular disease prevention, said the NHS 'has rolled out a range of preventative measures to support people to take control of their own health'.

'Thousands more... are now being supported to manage their condition more effectively than before the pandemic, reducing the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'This government has already taken significant action to reduce cardiovascular disease and its causes, including increasing access to testing and successfully encouraging reduced salt and sugar intake, but we know there is more to do.

'Our Major Conditions Strategy will of help prevent and manage conditions including cardiovascular disease while our plans to create a smokefree generation represent the most significant public health intervention in a generation.

'In addition, we are investing almost 17 million in an innovative new digital NHS Health Check, expected to deliver an additional one million health checks in its first four years.'

MailOnline has previously highlighted how the number of young people, under 40, in England being treated for heart attacks by the NHS is on the rise.

NHS data shows a rise in the number of younger adults suffering from heart attacks over the past decade. The biggest increase (95 per cent) was recorded in the 25-29 year-old demographic, though as numbers of patients are low even small spikes can look dramatic

Obesity is one of the factors, with rates having generally increased in younger groups over time. Data is taken from the annual NHS data survey, no data was recorded for 2020

Rising obesity rates, and its catalogue of associated health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes, are thought to be one of the major contributing factors.

Almost one in six adults between the age of 25 and 34 in England are now classified as being fat, compared to just a quarter in the early 90s.

Despite claims from anti-vaxxers, cardiologists say fears that Covid vaccines might have fuelled an increase in heart problems are way off the mark.

They point to data showing the erosion of progress on cardiovascular health in the UK predates the pandemic, though add the disruption caused by Covid to aspects like heart health screenings has exacerbated the problem.

Covid vaccines, like the mRNA versions made by the likes of Pfizer and Moderna can, rarely, trigger a heart complication called myocarditis.

This can weaken the heart muscle causing clots to form that can, in theory, trigger a heart attack.

But the overwhelming majority of vaccine-induced myocarditis cases are mild, real-world evidence shows.

Many resolve on their own, and the under 40s haven't been routinely invited for jabs since 2021 during the Omicron wave.

One of the families ripped apart by the nation's heart health crisis is that of Lauren Page Smith.

Lauren Page Smith was found dead at her home hours after paramedics gave her the all-clear

While some warning signs are easy to spot  such as severe chest pain  others are more vague and hard to pinpoint

The 29-year-old was discovered lying on her bathroom floor with her two-year-old daughter clinging to her chest just hours after paramedics had given her the all-clear.

In a heartbreaking interview with MailOnline, Ms Carrington said: 'I blame them two. I want their jobs. I blame them. Nothing's going to bring Lauren back but I don't want this happening to anybody ever again.'

Mr Carrington, 56, said that the couple got 'no comfort' from Lauren's inquest last month, adding: 'It just rubber-stamped what we already thought, that they basically let her die.'

A coroner ruled on November 1 that Lauren died after 'gross failures' in her care when West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) crews failed to spot that there was a 'clear sign' of a cardiac event in progress. But they did not rule there was 'neglect'.

We didn't wait for the ambulance  Steve was dying!

Refusing to wait for an ambulance may have saved a 55-year-old man's life after he suffered a heart attack.

Steve Ware, a team manager for a pensions firm, was celebrating wife Michelle's birthday on January 9, 2022.

As his wife napped on the sofa at their home in Bristol while recovering from Covid, Mr Ware started to get waves of intense pain in his chest.

He didn't want to worry Michelle, so an hour passed before she woke up and called 999. Mr Ware, a stepfather of three, said: 'The ambulance call handler said I was a priority, but couldn't give me a timeframe for when an ambulance would arrive.

'As soon as Michelle got off the phone, I was hit by an excruciating wave of chest pain, so bad that I fell to my knees.

Close call: Steve Ware, 55, pictured with wife Michelle, went into cardiac arrest minutes after arriving at the hospital

'That's when Michelle said she wasn't going to take the risk of waiting for an ambulance and would drive me herself to Southmead Hospital Bristol.

'The last thing I remember is struggling to walk to the hospital reception and collapsing into the first chair I saw.'

Mr Ware went into cardiac arrest just minutes after arriving at the hospital. A nurse later told him that his heart had stopped for 19 seconds.

He was resuscitated with CPR and defibrillation.

He was taken by ambulance to the Bristol Heart Institute, where he had a stent fitted.

Mrs Ware, 54, said: 'As it was a Sunday, there wasn't much traffic. Looking back, I dread to think what the outcome could have been if it had been a weekday and in rush hour.

'Steve could have had his cardiac arrest in the car. The story would probably have been very different then.'

She added: 'After Steve had his stent fitted, we didn't get any advice for his recovery and he wasn't offered any cardiac rehabilitation for months. I was shocked at the lack of support.

'This massive thing had happened, Steve had nearly died, and we were just left to get on with life immediately afterwards.'
A doctor has urged parents to book their children's MMR vaccine appointments, branding the recent drop a 'serious concern'.

The advice comes amid escalating fears of a nationwide measles outbreak, with cases having shot up in the West Midlands.

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) officials last week declared the situation a 'national incident', warning that too few youngsters were protected against the potentially deadly virus.

Millions of parents in England are now being encouraged by the NHS to make sure their children are fully protected against measles, mumps and rubella.

Letters have been sent to parents of six to 11-year-olds in England urging them to make an appointment with their GP if their child has not had both doses.

Health chiefs have also issued reminders to 1million people aged 11 to 25 in London and the West Midlands, the two epicentres of the outbreak, encouraging them to get jabbed if they have not already done so.

But how can you find out if your child is fully protected against measles, mumps and rubella? Read on to find out more.

A doctor has urged parents to ensure their children have both doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, labelling the recent downturn in childhood vaccinations as a 'serious concern' (stock image)

Why should your child be vaccinated against MMR?

Parents should make sure their children are protected against MMR because these diseases can be 'life changing and 'even deadly', according to Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, consultant medical epidemiologist at the UKHSA.

She added: 'No parent wants this for their child especially when these diseases are easily preventable.'

Dr Amirthalingam branded the recent downward turn in vaccinations against these diseases as a 'serious concern'.

'We now have a very real risk of measles outbreaks across the country.

'Please don't put this off, check now that your children are fully up to date with both their MMR jabs and all their routine vaccines, and do take up the offer as soon as possible if you are contacted by your GP practice or the NHS for your child to catch up.'

According to the NHS vaccination schedule, children usually have their first MMR vaccine at the age of one.

The second is usually scheduled when they are around 3 years and 4 months.

According to the NHS, it is important to be protected against measles, mumps and rubella because the trio of illnesses can cause serious complications, such as meningitis, hearing loss and issues during pregnancy.

The consequences of these diseases can be 'life changing' and 'deadly', potentially resulting in hearing loss, problems during pregnancy and meningitis (stock image)

If you are unsure if your child's vaccines are up to date you should contact your GP as soon as possible to ensure your child is protected (stock image)

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How can I check if my child is fully vaccinated?

If you believe your child is due a vaccination, it is best to contact your GP and book an appointment as soon as possible.

Your GP surgery will also usually get in contact via phone call, text, letter or email if your youngster is due their jabs.

If your child is not up-to-date on their jabs, you may be notified via letter from the Child Health Information Service.

Additionally, if you are unsure if your child has missed a vaccine appointment, then you should contact your GP.

Vaccination records may be available to access online or through the NHS app.

But it's not only children who need to check their vaccination status.

Older children and adults should be ensuring they have all of their vaccinations, including both doses of the MMR jab.

This is especially important if you are considering travelling, thinking about expanding your family, wanting to jet off to college or university, according to the NHS.

You can find your local School Aged Immunisation Service (SAIS) provider here.
Dozens of people have caught measles in the country's virus hotspots over the last month, official figures show.

London, the epicentre of the outbreak, has logged 59 suspected cases of the highly contagious virus since November 27. The incidents are spread between the capital's 32 boroughs, however.

Birmingham, which is currently battling its biggest outbreak since the 1990s, has reported 48 infections, MailOnline's analysis shows.

Experts say low uptake of the MMR vaccine, which protects 99 per cent of people against the virus, has triggered a resurgence of the illness, which can be deadly.

The NHS today launched a catch-up campaign, with pop-up clinics at schools and letters sent to millions in the hopes of increasing immunisation rates.

Health leaders today warned there is a 'very real risk' of fresh outbreaks across the country and urged people to come forward for jabs as soon as possible.

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Latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows there were 1,603 suspected measles cases in England and Wales in 2023. The figure is more than twice as high as the 735 logged in 2022 and an almost five-fold rise compared to the 360 cases reported in 2021

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) publishes notifications of infectious diseases (NOIDs) in England and Wales every week.

Data for the six weeks to January 7 show that, after London and Birmingham, suspected measles cases were highest in Coventry (15), Sheffield (10), Wigan and Solihull (6).

Within London, suspected cases were highest in Brent (6), Ealing (6) and Harrow (4).

So far this year, 64 cases have been detected. Yet this is from just one week of data.

It means measles' toll for this year so far is seven times higher than during the first week of 2023.

READ MORE: The symptoms of measles that every parent must know - from a runny nose to the tell-tale rash (and how to tell it apart from other illnesses) A national incident has been declared by the authorities after outbreaks in the West Midlands and London have sickened hundreds Advertisement

Throughout the whole of 2023, there were 1,603 suspected measles cases recorded in England and Wales.

The figure is more than twice as high as the 735 logged in 2022 and an almost five-fold rise compared to the 360 cases reported in 2021.

The UKHSA gathers the data from medics, who must report suspected cases of certain infectious diseases, such as measles, smallpox and whooping cough.

Around 180 local authorities haven't logged a single case.

The agency warned last week that the West Midlands, a measles hotspot, logged 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases between October 1 and January 18.

Around 80 per cent of cases were detected in Birmingham, while around 10 per cent were in Coventry. Most were among children under 10.

The UKHSA last week labelled the situation a national incident, an internal mechanism signalling the growing public health risk.

Dame Jenny Harries, the UKHSA's chief executive, warned that outbreaks will spread to other towns and cities unless uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine increases.

The jab given in two doses  at one year old, then three years and four months  and offers life-long protection.

At least 95 per cent of the population needs to be vaccinated to prevent outbreaks, under public health guidance. However, uptake is just 84.5 per cent in England.

This figure drops far lower in some areas with greater ethnic minority populations, to around 70 per cent, making them more susceptible to outbreaks.

Measles can be caught at any age and prove fatal. Complications include blindness, deafness and swelling of the brain (encephalitis).

One in five children who catch it will need to be admitted to hospital for treatment, according to estimates.

Analysis shows that if just one child in a classroom is infected, they can pass the virus on to up to nine other unvaccinated children, making it one of the most infectious diseases worldwide and more infectious than Covid.

If pregnant women become infected, the virus can cause stillbirth, miscarriage and a baby to have a low birth weight.

People who missed the jabs as part of the childhood vaccination schedule can catch up at any time by contacting their GP practice, which can also inform them if they have had both jabs already.

Some may also be able to check their status online or through the NHS app.

In England, 89.3 per cent of two-year-olds received their first dose of the MMR vaccine in the year to March 2023 (blue line), up from 89.2 per cent the previous year. Meanwhile, 88.7 per cent of two-year-olds had both doses, down from 89 per cent a year earlier

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More than 300 cases have been identified in the West Midlands since October. Birmingham Children's Hospital (pictured) has also seen 50 children needing treatment for the virus in the last month

Due to the unprecedented outbreak, the NHS today said that it has set up pop-up clinics at schools and other locations to make it easier for people to get vaccinated.

It has also sent letters to parents of six to 11-year-olds in England urging them to make an appointment with their GP if their child has not had both doses.

They have also issued reminders to 1million people aged 11 to 25 in London and the West Midlands, encouraging them to get jabbed if they have not already done so.

However, the service has provided no further details on whether the catch-up campaign will be pushed to 11 to 25-year-olds in other areas yet. Those in London and the West Midlands are expected to be contacted via text, emails and letters.

The downward trend has been blamed on the discredited Dr Andrew Wakefield, who falsely linked the MMR injection to autism in the 90s.

READ MORE: The symptoms of measles that every parent must know - from a runny nose to the tell-tale rash (and how to tell it apart from other illnesses) Cold-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough and a runny or blocked nose, are usually the first signal of measles. A few days later, some people develop small white spots on the inside of their cheeks and the back of their lips. The tell-tale measles rash also develops, usually starting on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body Advertisement

MMR uptake in England was about 91 per cent prior to his paper but plunged to 80 per cent in the following years. His study has since been retracted and Dr Wakefield was struck off.

A rise of anti-vaxx beliefs in the wake of Covid may have also fuelled the crisis, experts say.

Dr Jenny Harries, chief executive of the UKHSA, urged those born between 1998 and 2004 to check their vaccination status and turn to trusted sources, such as the NHS website, to avoid misinformation.

'Clearly there is misinformation, and people look at different sources that they feel are trusted sources,' Dr Harries said.

'We would always direct people to the NHS website or the UKHSA one which is a trusted source of information.'

Steve Russell, NHS director of vaccinations and screening, said: 'People who are unvaccinated can get catch-up jabs at MMR pop-ups in schools and other convenient places while GPs, teachers and trusted community leaders are encouraging groups that are less likely to get their jab to come forward.

'All this builds on the national MMR catch-up campaign the NHS rolled out at the beginning of winter, with text, email and letter reminders sent out to parents and guardians of children up to five who have yet to get full protection.

'Measles is a serious illness, with one in five children who get the disease having to be admitted to hospital for treatment, so if you or your child have not had your MMR jab, it is vital you come forward.'

Professor Mike Tildesley, an expert in infectious disease modelling at the University of Warwick, said the childhood vaccinations for measles helped the UK banish the disease.

He said: 'Unfortunately, if those vaccination levels drop then we will start to see cases going up. That's what we are seeing at the moment - according to NHS data around 85 per cent of children received their second MMR jab at 5 for 2022/23, which is much lower than it needs to be and this is quite variable across different parts of the country, with lower rates in some places, which is a worry.'
The World Health Organization is calling on countries to sign up to its pandemic treaty  warning the next outbreak could be caused by a disease 20 times more deadly than Covid.

The agency's director-general Dr Tedors Ghebreyesus said today they were already running the risk of missing a May deadline for the agreement  in what could be a major blow to future generations.

Speaking on a panel at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, last week, Dr Ghebreyesus called for increased cooperation between countries to suppress outbreaks before they go global.

He said it was a 'matter of when, not if' an even deadlier pandemic will strike, highlighting how unprepared the world was for Covid.

The WHO is currently preparing for Disease X, a hypothetical pathogen that could cause the next major outbreak  and is considered to be just as much of a risk as Ebola, SARS or Zika virus.

In 2018, the WHO identified nine priority diseases (listed) that pose the biggest risk to public health. They were deemed to be most risky due to a lack of treatments or their ability to cause a pandemic

The new pact and a series of updates to existing rules on dealing with pandemics are intended to shore up the world's defences against new pathogens after the Covid pandemic killed more than 7 million people, according to WHO data.

'I'm concerned that member states may not meet that commitment and there are several outstanding issues that remain to be resolved,' said Dr Ghebreyesus.

'In my view, a failure to deliver the pandemic agreement and the IHR (International Health Regulations) amendments will be a missed opportunity for which future generations may not forgive us.'

Only once before in the organisation's 75-year history has the WHO managed to agree such an accord, and that was a Tobacco Control treaty in 2003.

The tready was first proposed in 2021 and negotiations over the draft began in October 202.

But experts say it can take up to seven years to reach an agreement, pointing out that so far only two years have elapsed.

Roland Driece, co-chair of the group negotiating the agreemnt, added it was crucial to make progress now because of the 'slipping urgency' around pandemic prevention.

Dr Ghebreyesus added at the Davos summit: 'There are things [diseases] that are unknown that may happen  and anything happening is a matter of when, not if.

'So, we need to have a placeholder for that, for the diseases we don't know that may come, and that was when we gave the name Disease X.

'So, Disease X is a placeholder for an unknown disease.'

He added: 'Of course, there are some people who say this [Disease X] may create panic.

'No. It is better actually to anticipate something that may happen, because it has happened in our history many times, and prepare for it.

'We shouldn't face things unprepared. We can prepare for some unknown things as well, because there are basic things you can do.'

The WHO's treaty  dubbed the 'Pandemic Preparedness Treaty'  is an agreement that would see countries sharing alerts, data and research between each other.

This would help to rapidly alert the world to a new emerging disease threat, the agency argues, and also speed the development and roll-out of vaccines.

The treaty was first proposed in 2021, with a draft made available by October 2023.

Member states are now negotiating over the text of the agreement before another version is made available in May this year  when it could possibly be signed.

Other efforts the WHO has undertaken include establishing an early warning center in Berlin in 2021  where researchers keep an eye out for future outbreaks.

And an mRNA vaccine center in South Africa, which opened in April last year, that is designed to rapidly roll-out vaccines for poorer countries.

In a session called 'Preparing for Disease X' at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, a panel led by World Health Organization chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Gehreyesus (pictured right) debated 'novel efforts needed to prepare healthcare systems for the multiple challenges ahead

DailyMail.com previously spoke to three virus experts who agreed a respiratory virus was most likely to trigger the next fast-spreading disease that causes a global shutdown

The WHO was accused of failing to act quickly amid the emergence of Covid, instead appearing to 'parrot' lines from Beijing including that the virus did not appear to spread between people.

There were also issues over vaccine access, with many poorer countries struggling to get hold of shots because they were outcompeted by richer nations.

Disease X was added to the WHO's list of biggest pandemic threats in 2018, with the Covid pandemic following just a year later.

Dr Ghebreyesus was speaking at a talk, flanked by other leaders, entitled 'novel efforts needed to prepare healthcare systems for the multiple challenges ahead' flanked by other virus experts.

Experts do not yet know what type of virus will trigger the next pandemic, and be the next Disease X, but scientists have warned for decades that bird flu is the most likely contender.

Researchers say this is because of the threat of recombination  with high levels of human flu raising the risk of a human becoming co-infected with avian flu as well.

Others have long speculated Disease X would more generally come from zoonotic transmission  an animal virus or bacteria that jumps to humans.

Some have even warned Disease X could be sparked by a biological mutation, an accident or a terror attack that catches the world by surprise and spreads fast.

Dr Ghebreyesus also warned that many lives were lost when Covid struck because countries were unprepared.

He said: 'We lost many people because we couldn't manage them [in the early days of Covid].

'They could have been saved but there wasn't enough space.'

DailyMail.com previously spoke to three virus experts who agreed a respiratory virus  spread via droplets from coughs and sneezes  was most likely to trigger the next fast-spreading disease that causes a global shutdown.

They said the infamous Disease X would most likely appear after a farm worker is infected with an animal-borne disease that mutates, but said they could not rule out the disaster would be sparked by a lab leak, a main theory as to the origin of the Covid pandemic.

It was also possible, they warned, for the outbreak to be even worse than the Covid pandemic, pointing to the 1918 influenza outbreak, which killed an estimated 50 million people globally, compared to the seven million deaths from Covid.

Top culprits for the next pandemic, the experts speculated, were another coronavirus and avian influenza  a virus that infects birds but could possibly jump to humans.
Cardiologists told her she had an arrhythmia aged 21 and now she cannot drink it

A content creator revealed her caffeine addiction left her with a deadly heart condition at just 21.

Rachel Finley, a skincare and beauty influencer, started drinking up to eight shots of espresso a day in college, plus caffeine pills.

She started suffering heart palpitations throughout the night but put it down to stress.

She was eventually diagnosed with a heart arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat that can damage the heart and brain and lead to life-threatening stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest.

Caffeine can cause the heart to beat faster, leading to palpitations or skipped beats, which can lead to the development of a consistently irregular heartbeat.

Rachel Finley, a skincare and beauty influencer, used to drink up to eight shots a day plus caffeine pills, she said

She told her 200,000 TikTok followers: 'I started drinking espresso shots in high school because I thought it was cooler than getting a latte.

'It got really bad in college when I started working at a restaurant. They had a coffee bar in the restaurant that my friend worked at so I was drinking like six to eight shots a day.

'I just loved the way it made me feel.'

'Yes my family does have a history of addiction,' she added.

'At that point I was up all night with palpitations and I was just like "Oh it's probably because I'm stressed."

'I was not putting two and two together, clearly.'

Rachel admitted that she would be so tired after her shifts that she would take caffeine pills so she could stay up and go out.

'There I was, so tired and not being able to sleep because my palpitations were keeping me awake. And then I would just have more caffeine, rinse and repeat,' she said.

'I go to the cardiologist. Turns out I've given myself an arrhythmia at 21 years old.'

An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat, which happens when the electrical signals that tell the heart to beat don't work properly.

The heart may beat too quickly or too slowly, or the pattern may be inconsistent.

If not treated, they can damage the heart, brain, or other organs, which can lead to a fatal stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest.

Drinking too much caffeine can be a cause of arrhythmias, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Stimulants such as caffeine can cause the heart to beat faster, meaning it can cause palpitations or skipped beats, which can lead to the development of more serious arrhythmias.

Caffeine is also known to increase a person's blood pressure and heart rate for a temporary period of time.

'I basically had to cut caffeine out of my life forever,' Rachel said. 'So if you're on your third Celsius today, keep that in mind.'

'All I want is a Red Bull, and it will kill me,' she added.

But the majority of research has not found a link between caffeine consumption and arrhythmias.

In fact, a study in 2020 found that regular coffee consumption was actually associated with a lower risk of arrhythmias.

Researchers led from the University of California, San Francisco analysed the impact of coffee consumption on arrhythmia incidence among more than 380,000 people.

They found that every additional cup one consumes on a daily basis appears to lower the risk of developing an irregular heart rhythm by three percent.

It is still unclear whether consistent coffee drinking can cause long-term increases in blood pressure, cholesterol or other harmful effects to the heart.

Roughly one in 18 people, or five percent of the American population has an arrhythmia.

President Joe Biden has a type of arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation. This is caused by extremely fast and irregular beats from the upper chamber of the heart.

It can lead to dangerous complications including blood clots, and it also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.

In total, Rachel was consuming around 700mg of caffeine a day, considerably more than the FDA's recommendation that healthy adults have no more than 400mg a day - about four or five cups of coffee.

Caffeine addiction is the excessive and harmful use of caffeine over a period of time, and an inability to control caffeine use despite negative effects, such as palpitations.

It can cause sleep disorders, as well as dizziness, shakiness, headaches, raised blood pressure, nervousness and heartbeat abnormalities.

It comes as fast food joint Panera Bread faces a third lawsuit for the allegedly harmful effect of its highly caffeinated 'Charged Lemonade' drink.

A 28 year-old Rhode Island woman is suing the chain, alleging the beverage left her with long-term heart problems.

Lauren Skerritt, an athlete, drank two-and-a-half Charged Lemonades at a Panera location in Greenville, Rhode Island, in April last year, according to the lawsuit.

After drinking the lemonade, Skerritt allegedly experienced new episodes of palpitations and dizziness.

Scans later showed that she was suffering atrial fibrillation  an irregular heartbeat that can lead to a stroke and heart failure, according to the lawsuit.

This case follows the tragic death of a 21 year-old Pennsylvania college student, who, according to court documents, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest after consuming the lemonade - which contains 390 milligrams of caffeine.

The student, Sarah Katz from New Jersey, drank a 30-ounce cup of 'Charged Lemonade' from fast food joint Panera Bread, which contains more caffeine than a Red Bull and Monster energy drink combined.

Ms Katz suffered a serious heart rhythm condition called long QT syndrome, which causes the heart to beat irregularly (arrhythmia).
The Biden administration is launching a PR and policy blitz centered around abortion access - with the White House viewing reproductive rights as key to winning the White House in 2024.

On Monday, the White House announced executive actions to improve access to emergency abortions and contraception across the country, including in Red states with strict restrictions.

It came after the administration released a new advert Sunday featuring a Texas OB-GYN who was forced to travel out of state to terminate her wanted but nonviable pregnancy.

Meanwhile, Kamala Harris is in Wisconsin today where she is launching a national 'reproductive freedoms tour' that will see the VP visit more than a dozen states and feature stories of pregnant women who've been affected by abortion restrictions.

The issue of abortion access has been identified as a way to improve President Bidens shaky re-election prospects, while he polls at about 39 percent approval.

President Biden said: 'The cruelty is astounding... In states like Texas, doctors can get a life sentence for providing the care they were trained to provide...it's simply outrageous. And frankly, this is just the beginning.'

The Biden administration's latest all-out assault on abortion bans in Red states has largely been seen as a political move to boost lagging support in his party

The above map assigns each state, territory, and the District of Columbia to one of five categories: Expanded Access, Protected, Not Protected, Hostile, and Illegal. The majority of restrictions and all-out bans. Abortion is protected by state law in 21 states and the District of Columbia and is at risk of being severely limited or prohibited in twenty-six states and three territories

President Biden will launch education campaigns to help patients, doctors, and hospital staff better understand the law that guarantees emergency access to abortion at hospitals that get federal funding, known as the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA).

The Department of Health and Human Services will also remind insurers and state health officials about their legal obligation to cover the cost of any Food and Drug Administration-approved abortion medication and birth control prescribed by a doctor under Obamacare.

Biden will hear directly from physicians on the frontlines of the fallout from the SCOTUS decision that gave GOP-led states the ability to limit abortion access.

After Roe v Wade was tossed out in June 2022, the White House told hospitals and doctors they had to offer abortions in the event of a medical emergency or if the health or life of the patient was in danger, regardless of state law.

But in practice, critics have argued that doctors have been left hesitant to give abortions and with different opinions on what constitutes a medical emergency. In most cases, doctors found in violation of state abortion restrictions face prison time and steep fines.

The White House said ahead of its roundtable with reproductive rights experts: HHS is announcing today a comprehensive plan to educate all patients about their rights and to help ensure hospitals meet their obligations under federal law.

HHS will also disseminate training materials for health care providers and establish a dedicated team of experts who will increase the Departments capacity to support hospitals and providers across the country in complying with federal requirements.

GOP interpretations of the law have had dangerous consequences.

Mylissa Farmer, 41, was 18 weeks pregnant when her water broke, leaving her at risk of life-threatening complications - but hospitals in her home state of Missouri refused to perform an abortion despite her 'baby dying inside her.'

She and her husband were forced to go to Missouri and Kansas, but doctors kept giving them a chilling message  despite her baby having no chance of survival and she was at high risk for life-threatening complications, their hands were legally tied, and they couldnt do anything to help her.

She was finally granted an emergency abortion at a clinic in Illinois, where abortion is legal.

At the same time, the legal interpretation of EMTALA is tied up in the Supreme Court, which is expected to rule by June.

The case concerns an Idaho law that a federal judge said was overly strict in its promise to charge doctors with a felony if they performed an emergency abortion to save a womans life.

In addition to hosting a roundtable with his reproductive health task force and physicians impacted by abortion bans in their states, Vice President Kamala Harris will kick off a multistate campaign blitz to drum up support for the administration.

Shell start in Wisconsin, where shes expected to rail against Republican legislation to ban abortion after 14 weeks, which the states Democratic governor has promised to veto.

While the ongoing Republican primaries show former President Trump has effectively clinched the nomination, his hardline stance against abortion rights runs counter to popular opinion on the matter.

A November poll by the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation showed that 58 percent of all voters regardless of party affiliation trust Democrats more on abortion rights issues compared to 41 percent of all voters who trust Republicans more.

And a Gallup poll conducted last summer mere days after the one-year anniversary of the fall of Roe found 61 percent said that overturning the law was a bad thing, while 38 percent called it a good thing.
A simple blood test can detect Alzheimers up to 15 years before symptoms begin, paving the way for a national screening programme.

A major trial found the test  which is already commercially available  was as accurate as the current gold standard for diagnosing Alzheimers Disease.

For the first time, doctors were able to categorise a persons dementia chances as 'likely', 'intermediate' or 'unlikely' from a blood test  ruling out the need for further invasive procedures.

Experts said it will revolutionise diagnosis, making Alzheimers as easy to test for as routine health conditions such as high cholesterol.

A new blood test for Alzheimer's is so simple experts say patients could expect results within 'days', rather than the years it currently takes to get a diagnosis (stock image)

Patients could expect results within days of visiting their GP, rather than the years it currently takes to get a diagnosis.

This could also have huge implications for future treatments, removing diagnosis barriers such as long waits for spinal taps or brain scans and speeding up trials.

It could also pave the way for the screening of over-50s, once more effective treatments become available.

Made by diagnostics company ALZpath, it was found to be 97 per cent accurate at detecting traces of tau, linked to developing Alzheimers Disease during the eight-year trials.

Swedish researchers found the test  which measures levels of p-tau217 in the blood  corresponded to levels of amyloid and tau proteins seen in brain scans and lumbar punctures.

The higher the levels of this leaked brain protein in the blood, the more likely or advanced the Alzheimers Disease was in the in tests involving 786 people.

With breakthrough treatments such as donanemab and lecanemab on the horizon, experts say it is vital to have a quick and reliable diagnosis, when drugs could be most effective.

Professor David Curtis, of the UCL Genetics Institute, University College London (UCL), said this was effectively one half of the solution, as the world awaits effective treatments.

He said: This could potentially have huge implications. Everybody over 50 could be routinely screened every few years, in much the same way as they are now screened for high cholesterol.

It is possible that currently available treatments for Alzheimer's disease would work better in those diagnosed early in this way.

However, I think the real hope is that better treatments can also be developed.

The combination of a simple screening test with an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease would have a dramatic impact for individuals and for society.

Around 900,000 people in the UK live with dementia  with Alzheimers the most common form.

The growing ageing population means that numbers are expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040, making a cheap screening tool vital to get to grips with the challenge.

Alzheimer's Research UK analysis found 74,261 people died from dementia in 2022 compared with 69,178 a year earlier, making it the countrys biggest killer.

While previous blood tests have shown promise, these findings have caused particular excitement given the high accuracy levels, large study size and because the test already exists.

It is also the first time a blood test has been found to be at least as good as a painful lumbar puncture, or spinal tap for detecting elevated levels of the tau protein, according to the findings published in JAMA Neurology.

From 1906 when clinical psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer first reported a 'severe disease of the cerebral cortex' to uncovering the mechanics of the disease in the 1980s-90s to the recent 'breakthrough' drug lecanemab, scientists have spent over a century trying to grapple with the brutal disease that robs people of their cognition and independence

Alzheimer's Research UK analysis found 74,261 people died from dementia in 2022 compared with 69,178 a year earlier.

Changes in humour and swearing more are all signs of Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) a type of dementia that causes problems with behaviour and language. According to experts bad parking, and dressing scruffy are also signs of the memory-robbing disease. Graphic shows: Six signs of Alzheimer's disease

The results mean the inexpensive tests  priced at around 150  could also be used to monitor a patients condition, allowing more tailored trials or treatment in future.

Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer's Society, said: This study is a hugely welcome step in the right direction as it shows that blood tests can be just as accurate as more invasive and expensive tests at predicting if someone has features of Alzheimer's disease in their brain.

Furthermore, it suggests results from these tests could be clear enough to not require further follow-up investigations for some people living with Alzheimer's disease, which could speed up the diagnosis pathway significantly in future.

However, we still need to see more research across different communities to understand how effective these blood tests are across everyone who lives with Alzheimer's disease.

Officially classed as a medical device, the tests would need regulatory approval in the UK before any widespread rollout.

But it could form part of NHS trials starting this month looking to roll out an effective blood tests for Alzheimers within the next five years.

Private healthcare providers may start offering the test sooner based on the findings by the University of Gothenburg researchers, allowing people to pay for tests before they become routine, experts suggest.

At present, the only ways to definitively diagnose Alzheimer's are through expensive brain scans or lumbar punctures, which involve taking a fluid sample from the patient's spinal cord.

A lack of diagnostic capacity and long waiting lists mean only 2 per cent of cases are diagnosed this way, with patients facing wait of up to four years meaning around one in four die before any formal diagnosis is made.

With breakthrough treatments such as donanemab and lecanemab on the horizon, experts say it is vital to have a quick and reliable diagnosis, when drugs could be most effective.

Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: This study suggests that measuring levels of a protein called p-tau217 in the blood could be as accurate as currently used lumbar punctures for detecting the biological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, and superior to a range of other tests currently under development.

This adds to a growing body of evidence that this particular test has huge potential to revolutionise diagnosis for people with suspected Alzheimer's.
Young doctors are being sent pictures of measles symptoms amid an explosion of the 'forgotten' illness.

Hundreds of kids in recent weeks have been sickened by the extremely contagious virus, which initially causes symptoms mimicking a cold, flu or Covid before its tell-tale rash.

Outbreaks were common in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s but eventually fizzled out thanks to vaccines.

It means thousands of doctors and medics have little or virtually no experience of treating patients infected with the illness, which can be deadly.

As a result, one GP hub in Birmingham  the epicentre of the current resurgence, with cases having soared to their highest levels since the 1990s  has sent images of the typical symptoms around to practice staff.

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Cold-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough and a runny or blocked nose, are usually the first signal of measles. A few days later, some people develop small white spots on the inside of their cheeks and the back of their lips. The tell-tale measles rash also develops, usually starting on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body

Latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows there were 1,603 suspected measles cases in England and Wales in 2023. The figure is more than twice as high as the 735 logged in 2022 and an almost five-fold rise compared to the 360 cases reported in 2021

Dr Mina Gupta, clinical chair at the Modality Group, which has 23 GP practices in Birmingham and the Black Country, told The Times: 'We have had to send pictures of symptoms to our clinicians because young doctors just don't know what measles looks like.'

The surge has been blamed on a slump in vaccination rates, which are at their lowest level in a decade.

Just 84.5 per cent of five-year-olds in England have had both MMR jabs, compared to the 95 per cent needed to prevent the virus from spreading.

Before the current uptick in measles cases, doctors were being reminded about the tell-tale symptoms.

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health produced a poster urging medics to 'think measles' when treating children.

READ MORE: The symptoms of measles that every parent must know - from a runny nose to the tell-tale rash (and how to tell it apart from other illnesses) A national incident has been declared by the authorities after outbreaks in the West Midlands and London have sickened hundreds Advertisement

The NHS today launched a catch-up campaign, with pop-up clinics at schools and letters sent to millions, in the hopes of increasing vaccine uptake.

Dr Chris Bird, an A&E consultant at Birmingham Children's Hospital, treated swathes of children sickened with measles in 2012, when he was working as a paediatrician in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, many of the medics he works with have never treated the illness before.

He told the newspaper: 'We are getting five, six, up to seven cases of measles a day.

'Before this, the odd case would trickle in  maybe one a year. A lot of my younger colleagues had never seen measles before. Some of them are very unwell.'

The UK had previously eliminated measles from British shores but lost its status after 231 cases were detected in the first quarter of 2019.

Transmission slumped again during the pandemic but it has picked up in recent months.

Some 64 cases were detected in the first week of 2024  seven-times higher than the toll logged during the first week of 2023.

Throughout the whole of 2023, there were 1,603 suspected measles cases recorded in England and Wales.

The figure is more than twice as high as the 735 logged in 2022 and an almost five-fold rise compared to the 360 cases reported in 2021.

Hundreds of thousands of cases were logged each year in the aftermath of WW2, with rates plunging after the first vaccine was introduced in the late 60s. The MMR, rolled out in the late 80s, thwarted measles even further.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) last week labelled the situation a national incident, an internal mechanism signalling the growing public health risk.

It warned that the West Midlands, a measles hotspot, logged 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases between October 1 and January 18.

Around 80 per cent of cases were detected in Birmingham, while around 10 per cent were in Coventry. Most were among children under 10.

In England, 89.3 per cent of two-year-olds received their first dose of the MMR vaccine in the year to March 2023 (blue line), up from 89.2 per cent the previous year. Meanwhile, 88.7 per cent of two-year-olds had both doses, down from 89 per cent a year earlier

Before the current uptick in measles cases, doctors were being reminded about the tell-tale symptoms. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health produced a poster urging medics to 'think measles' when treating children

Health minister Maria Caulfield today urged mothers and fathers of unvaccinated children to 'come forward'. She said: 'It is not too late, there is no age cap, anyone who has not had their vaccination can come forward'

Dame Jenny Harries, the UKHSA's chief executive, warned that outbreaks will spread to other towns and cities unless uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine increases.

The jab given in two doses  at one year old, then three years and four months  and offers life-long protection.

At least 95 per cent of the population needs to be vaccinated to prevent outbreaks, under public health guidance.

This figure drops far lower in some areas with greater ethnic minority populations, to around 70 per cent, making them more susceptible to outbreaks.

Health minister Maria Caulfield today urged mothers and fathers of unvaccinated children to 'come forward'. She said: 'It is not too late, there is no age cap, anyone who has not had their vaccination can come forward.

READ MORE: The symptoms of measles that every parent must know - from a runny nose to the tell-tale rash (and how to tell it apart from other illnesses) Cold-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough and a runny or blocked nose, are usually the first signal of measles. A few days later, some people develop small white spots on the inside of their cheeks and the back of their lips. The tell-tale measles rash also develops, usually starting on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body Advertisement

'The first vaccine will provide roughly 92 per cent protection, the second 98 per cent protection so the message is to come forward and get vaccinated.'

Ms Caulfield blamed the surge in measles on a 'gradual' 10-year decline in vaccine uptake due to the anti-vaxx movement and the Covid pandemic.

She pointed to Dr Andrew Wakefield, who falsely linked the MMR injection to autism in the 90s.

MMR jab uptake in England was about 91 per cent prior to the discredited doctor's paper but plunged to 80 per cent in the following years. His study has since been retracted and Dr Wakefield was struck off.

Interruptions to routine vaccination due to the Covid pandemic is another factor, according to Ms Caulfield. Other experts have warned vaccine hesitancy, fuelled by the pandemic, has only worsened the problem.

She said: 'Also concerns in particular communities, such as the Jewish and Muslim communities, over the type of vaccine used.

'My message to those mums and dads of children not vaccinated at the moment is to come forward.

'We have got a range of measures in place, letters are going out to parents of unvaccinated children  one million across London and the Midlands  we've got extra clinics being set up by GPs, we've got pop-up clinics in schools, we've got vaccine buses targeting communities with low vaccination rates, we held two MP briefing sessions on January 12th and 19th  one for the West Midlands, one for London  and today we have sent out information for MPs to help us get the message out to their constituents to come forward.'

Shadow health minister Preet Kaur Gill echoed Ms Caulfield's vaccination call although described the current situation as 'entirely preventable'.

She said: 'The UK was deemed by the WHO to have eradicated measles just five years ago.

Measles, which mostly produces flu like symptoms and a rash, can cause very serious and even fatal health complications if it spreads to the lungs or the brain. One in five children who catch measles will need to go to hospital, with one in 15 developing serious complications like meningitis or sepsis

More than 300 cases have been identified in the West Midlands since October. Birmingham Children's Hospital (pictured) has also seen 50 children needing treatment for the virus in the last month

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'But since then MMR vaccination rates have plummeted, leaving tens of thousands of children completely unprotected meaning that now one-in-five children are not protected with two doses by the age of five.'

Ms Gill said the 'warning signs could have been seen from space' as she claimed there had been 'complacency' from the Government.

Measles can be caught at any age and prove fatal. Complications include blindness, deafness and swelling of the brain (encephalitis).

One in five children who catch it will need to be admitted to hospital for treatment, according to estimates.

Analysis shows that if just one child in a classroom is infected, they can pass the virus on to up to nine other unvaccinated children, making it one of the most infectious diseases worldwide and more infectious than Covid.

If pregnant women become infected, the virus can cause stillbirth, miscarriage and a baby to have a low birth weight.

People who missed the jabs as part of the childhood vaccination schedule can catch up at any time by contacting their GP practice, which can also inform them if they have had both jabs already.

Some may also be able to check their status online or through the NHS app.
MBABANE  South African (SA) Amapiano sensation, Young Stunna will headline Mega Lounges third edition of the First Assembly show scheduled for January 27.

This event is worth noting that, it is for a charitable cause. Last year the show was hosting its second edition and the theme was High School uniform and it was very successful. Through that event, the organisers managed to amass quite a number of uniforms that were donated to various schools. This year is no different; we are still fundraising for different high schools. We ask that after the event, the uniforms be donated so that others benefit from it, said Zulu.

Record

Born Sandile Fortune Msimango, popularly known by his stage name Young Stunna, is known for his hit singles Imithandazo, Bopha and Adiwele. He has also worked with record producers DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small. Young Stunna uses Zulu and Xhosa in most of his songs. The musician recently released his latest album titled uNonkosi where he actually appeared wearing the local traditional regalia.

Young Stunna will be making his first visit in the country this year at Mega Lounge. During the show, he will share the stage with local musicians such as Zulu D, Linda Dlamini, Sbu De Drum DJ, The Prefect, Supa CDQ, Tilungu, Matamza, The Bishops as well as Mega Lounge resident DJs. Mega Lounge Director Zulu D, when asked why they booked Young Stunna for the third edition, he hailed his energy on stage, citing that they want to give patrons a memorable showcase.

Introduction

Young Stunna is a man who needs no introduction. His energy when performing on stage is ideal for this show as we are looking to offer patrons an exclusive showcase that will leave them yearning for more. Young Stunna is also currently trending due to his versatility when it comes to talent, his songs are most loved locally, hence, he was chosen to headline the show, Zulu D said. He went on to share that patrons should come in their numbers to witness the third edition of the first assembly show. If you are an Amapiano fan, House music fan, Hip Hop fan as well as a Deep-house fan make sure you show up for this show. Entertainment will be galore, our line-up is solid as a rock and we are looking to bring the house down alongside the talented musicians, he said.




Old guidance said medics could breach confidentiality and inform the police

Medics should not report women believed to have illegally ended their pregnancy, under new guidance issued by a leading health body.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists said women are being prosecuted after abortions.

It has issued the guidance to medical professionals following 'the increasing number of police investigations', into women who have late stage terminations.

Under the current rules NHS staff can breach patient confidentiality and inform police if it is in the 'public interest'.

In its new guidance the RCOG said healthcare professionals should not call the police to report a suspected illegal abortion without the patient's consent.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists issued the new guidance following 'the increasing number of police investigations', into women who have late stage terminations (stock image)

The guidance reads: 'The College is concerned at the increasing number of police investigations following later gestation abortion and pregnancy loss, and the impact this can have on women, who may be especially vulnerable and have suffered the distress of a later stage loss.

'The RCOG and the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare have stated that it is never in the public interest to investigate a patient who is suspected of ending their own pregnancy, a view endorsed by over 60 organisations and professionals.

'Do not call the police or external agencies if a woman divulges, or you are suspicious, that she may have sought to end her own pregnancy unless she has given explicit consent to do so, or you consider it justified in her best interests.'

It also states any enquiry from police or the coroner should be directed to a member of senior staff in the clinician's organisation.

The guidance follows an uptick of investigations into suspected illegal abortions.

In 2022, the number logged with police forces rose to 29, from 16 in 2018.

There were six women prosecuted in England on suspicion of breaking abortion law, last year.

The law in England, Wales and Scotland currently allows abortion up to the 24th week of pregnancy  they can also be carried out in limited circumstances after 24 weeks, such as severe disability or risk to the mother's life.

Abortions must be carried out by a registered medical practitioner.

The law was last amendment in 1990, when the 24-week time limit was imposed, following a vote by MPs.

Dr Jonathan Lord the RCOG's medical director told the BBC the law was now being used against women.

He said: 'A law that was originally designed to protect a woman is now being used against her.

'We have witnessed life-changing harm to women and their wider families as a direct result of NHS staff reporting women suspected of crimes, and we just don't think that would happen in other areas of healthcare.

'We deal with the most vulnerable groups who may be concerned about turning to regulated healthcare at all, and we need them to trust us.'

'It's also just so deeply traumatic if you suffered a pregnancy loss or a natural miscarriage, whether it was from abortion care or whether it was just a natural thing, to then face suspicion and investigation, and know that your name could be very public and you could go to jail, is just deeply distressing.'

Office for Health Improvement and Disparities data show 214,869 women had abortions in England and Wales in 2021, up 2 per cent on the more than 210,000 recorded in 2020

The intervention follows the case last year of Carla Foster, who was jailed for illegally taking abortion tablets while 32 to 34 weeks pregnant.

Ms Foster was originally told she would serve half of her 28-month sentence in custody, although the Court of Appeal reduced the term to 14 months suspended.

Dr Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: 'We firmly believe it is never in the public interest to investigate and prosecute women who have sought to end their own pregnancy. These women should be treated with care and compassion, without judgement or fear of imprisonment.

'We hope this new best practice guidance gives healthcare professionals clarity around their legal and professional obligations.'

The guidance has been criticised by pro-life groups who said it risked undermining the rule of law.

Catherine Robinson, spokesperson for Right to Life UK, said: 'It is deeply inappropriate for the RCOG to usurp Parliament by issuing guidance related to criminal investigations. Where a crime is suspected of being committed, it is the role of the legal system to determine whether or not a crime took place and whether or not it is in the public interest to prosecute.

'This guidance is also especially alarming in regard to instances of coerced abortions. Illegal abortions can occur as a result of abuse, coercion or sex trafficking. This new guidance appears to create a presumption against disclosing information about illegal abortions to the police, and this could leave vulnerable women in these situations being denied the protection of the law.'
Rates of gender dysphoria have soared in every state bar one over the past five years, according to new research.

And the average age at which patients are diagnosed is also younger - children under-18 now make up a fifth of all new cases each year.

The report by the health data analytics firm Definitive Healthcare shows the rate of gender dysphoria increased in every state except South Dakota from 2018 to 2022.

The sharpest rises over those five years were seen in three Republican-led states: Virginia (274 percent) Indiana (247 percent) and Utah (193 percent).

Greater social acceptance and increased awareness about the condition on the part of doctors can partly explain the increase in cases.

Meanwhile, the report also found that the number of sex change surgeries being carried out each year is rising rapidly - climbing by up to 40 percent some years.

Rates of gender dysphoria have soared in every state bar one over the past five years (shown)

Across all age groups, surgery rates rose most dramatically in 2021

No age breakdown or raw numbers were given but children are thought to make up a small but growing portion of those surgeries.

Unlike other countries like the UK, there is no federal age limit no lower age limits for when children can get 'top' or 'bottom' operations in the US, which leaves it up to the states.

In terms of gender dysphoria rates for all ages, South Dakota saw a decline of 23 percent between 2018 and 2022.

Hawaii and Connecticut have seen the lowest increases by six and 10 percent, respectively, based on medical procedure and diagnosis claims data.

The diagnoses are up regardless of bans across the country in GOP-led states on administering hormones, puberty blockers, and green-lighting surgery for trans children.

So far 22 states have instituted bans or restrictions on the drugs, for which there are concerns about long-term health effects.

But it was Republican states that saw the biggest rises. For example, South Carolina saw an increase of 171 percent between 2018 and 2022.

The Definitive Healthcare data referred only to gender dysphoria diagnoses, but not all trans people get that diagnosis.

Separate data has given a macro view of how many people in the US are transgender and could be eligible for that diagnosis.

Data from 2020 showed that about 300,000 children aged between 13 and 17 (1.4 per cent) in the US identified as transgender.

That is double the number estimated to be transgender in 2017 in a previous report by the same researchers, though they used different estimates.

Overall, there are were an estimated 1.6million transgender people in the United States in 2020, up about three per cent from the estimate of 1.55million in 2017.

This map shows the proportion of children aged between 13 and 17 years old that identified as transgender by state, with darker colors indicating a higher proportion of young people

This map shows the proportion of the population identifying as transgender by state. Those with the darkest color have almost one per cent of their population in this category

The data analytics firm claimed the disparity in access to care has been devastating for trans people, who are as a result at higher risk of developing mental health issues, sexually transmitted infections, substance use and abuse, and chronic health issues.

Despite these risks, our data shows that more people than ever are seeking gender-affirming care, even while access to that care is being intentionally and systemically limited.

The share of gender dysphoria diagnoses among patients under 18 rose from 17.5 percent in 2018 to 20.4 percent in 2022.

Several states showed just modest increases at first only for those increases to reverse ahead of restrictions on gender-affirming care.

Florida experienced a continuous increase in diagnoses from 2018 to 2021, followed by a 16 percent decrease by the end of 2022, just before the implementation of a trans care ban in March 2023.

In North Dakota, diagnoses grew between 2018 and 2021 but then declined by 11 percent from 2021 to 2022, preceding the enforcement of a youth trans care ban in April 2023.

Iowa's diagnoses showed less steady growth during the same period, with a 14 percent decline from 2021 to 2022, leading up to its youth care ban in March 2023.

Nebraska saw growth in diagnoses before experiencing a five percent drop between 2021 and 2022, ahead of the implementation of a youth surgery ban and restrictions on hormone therapy in 2023.

And Montana saw growth followed by a three percent dip in diagnoses from 2021 to 2022, just before the enactment of a care ban in August 2023.

Definitive Healthcare said: Our medical claims data shows that gender dysphoria diagnoses are on the rise, and patients with these diagnoses are seeking mental health services in greater numbers than ever.

Twenty-two states have implemented gender-affirming care bans impacting youth, with over 35 percent of trans youth living in these states.

Medical claims for mental healthcare rose steadily from 2018 to 2022, albeit in in relatively small increments

Gender-affirming care typically starts out with the patient undergoing psychotherapy before deciding whether to go down a medical path.

The Definitive Healthcare report showed that from 2018 to 2022, more than a quarter of gender dysphoria patients received care for a mental health condition.

More and more gender dysphoria patients are seeking mental health services by the year, with 27.3 percent seeking it in 2018, followed by 27.5 percent in 2019, 27.7 percent in 2020, 29.2 percent in 2021, and 29.6 percent in 2022.

Medical interventions for transgender people, particularly youth, are far more controversial than social transitioning, which can include altering the pronouns a person wishes to be called.

Hormone therapies that promote the development of secondary sex characteristics and puberty blockers that give adolescents more time to explore their gender identity, and surgeries to remove ones breasts or change their genitals are especially contentious given that they can be irreversible.

In 2022, around 18 percent of patients submitted a claim for transition surgery with Medicaid, Medicare, or another government healthcare payment program. Thats up from 13 percent in 2018.

Sex change surgery rates have shot up in recent years, with one in six trans adults in the US opting to have gender-affirming surgery. The majority of those who go under the knife have genital surgery (84 percent between 2006-2011), but almost half of the people who have vagina construction surgery suffer complications years later. Most transmen (64 percent) who have penis construction surgery also have issues

A phalloplasty involves creating a penis from skin taken from elsewhere on the body. The main two techniques are radial forearm flap, where skin is taken from the forearm (pictured left six weeks post-op) and anterolateral thigh flap, where skin is taken from the thigh (pictured right one-month post-op)

A small proportion of trans youth undergo surgeries, and some who do opt for surgery may experience severe complications such as infection, pain, and difficulty using the toilet or having sex post-surgery.

The most common top surgery among trans men is chest masculinization in the form of a double mastectomy, where the breasts are removed.

Delicate and intricate bottom surgeries are also available, including a phalloplasty which uses a piece of tissue known as a flap, usually taken from the forearm or thigh, to construct a penis.

Surgeries performed have also increased fourfold, from 3.87 per 100,000 patients to 14.22 per 100,000 patients between 2000 and 2014, according to Harvard University and John Hopkins University School of Medicine research.

And the figures are much higher in more recent years. Around 9,000 transgender surgeries are now performed every year in the US.

Some young people who have undergone medical transitions have done so only to realize later in life that they were too hasty in their decisions, ultimately deciding to detransition.

An American named Kobe, who began puberty blockers at 13 and had his testicles removed at 19, said he bitterly regrets his decision to transition and was told to 'play the suicide card' by older trans people in order to receive treatment.

He now suffers from severe spinal pain he fears could be osteoporosis, with puberty blockers linked to bone injuries.

The young man, known only as Kobe, is pictured here on the left after he decided to stop transitioning and on the right after he made the decision, which he now regrets

Prisha Mosley, a student of French and psychology in Big Rapids, Michigan, says taking testosterone left her with broad shoulders, narrow hips, a deep voice and facial and body hair

Prisha Mosley, a 24-year-old from Michigan, started taking testosterone at age 17 and had her breasts removed the following year. She has come to regret her decision and is raising funds on GoFundMe to help cover the cost of the detransition process.

She discovered transgenderism online and started socially transitioning to being a boy aged 15, believing it would help her with anorexia, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

In hindsight, she says she and her family were emotionally manipulated by the gender specialist who approved her to see a doctor for hormones and a later surgeon for top surgery after only brief consultations.

Doctors may be able to reconstruct her breasts, but it's unclear whether she'll be able to conceive children. She has no sensation in her chest and suffers from vaginal atrophy and dryness, which makes intercourse painful.

States with the sharpest increases in gender dysphoria rates Virginia 274% Indiana 247% Utah 193% Alaska 183% South Carolina 171% Delaware 170% Kansas 147% Washington 145% Colorado 145% Maine 135% Advertisement
His death was due to prostate cancer, which tends to affect older, Black men

Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr, has died at 62 years old following a battle with prostate cancer.

Leah Weber King, his wife of 11 years, said on Monday: 'He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu.

'He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. As with all the challenges in his life, he faced this hurdle with bravery and might.'

Prostate cancer is the second-most common form of cancer in men, just behind skin cancer.

Experts estimate that it will strike 300,000 American men this year and kill more than 35,000, most of whom are over age 65 - and the American Cancer Society (ACS) says rates are rising about three percent every year.

Additionally, healthcare providers warn the disease can be difficult to spot, as it often causes no symptoms at first. The signs typically mirror that of an enlarged prostate, which tends to affect older men.

Read on for everything you need to know about prostate cancer:

Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of the disease, striking 300,000 American men every year. It is most prevalent in over-50s and black men

Dexter Scott King, the younger son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, has died after battling prostate cancer

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms in its beginning stages.

However, ACS states that early warning signs include issues urinating. This could include needing to pee more often, especially at night, or having a slow or weak urinary stream.

It may also be difficult to start peeing or men may feel as though their bladder has not fully emptied.

You may also find yourself running to the bathroom with an increased urge to urinate.

As the disease progresses, people may develop pain during urination, loss of bladder and bowel control, painful ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction.

Additionally, patients may experience pain in their testicles.

More advanced prostate cancer can also lead to blood in the urine or semen.

How common is prostate cancer and why are rates rising?

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men behind skin cancer.

The ACS estimates that one in eight men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetimes.

Also according to the ACS, there will be about 300,000 new cases of prostate cancer this year, along with 35,250 deaths.

While cases were on the decline from 2007 to 2014 due to updated guidelines that reduced the number of men getting screened, the incidence rate since 2014 has increased approximately three percent per year, the ACS estimates.

And the increase for advanced-stage prostate cancer has risen five percent.

In a report from the ACS journal Cancer Statistics, researchers wrote: 'The increasing percentage of men presenting with advanced prostate cancer, which is much more difficult to treat and often incurable, is highly discouraging.'

'In order to end cancer as we know it, for everyone, it is imperative for us to focus on cancers where trends for incidence and mortality are going in the wrong direction.'

Experts have attributed the rise to a growing population of older men, among whom the condition is most common.

They have also suggested this may be due to recent recommendations against prostate cancer screening.

In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) put forth guidelines stating that men over age 70 'should not be screened for prostate cancer routinely' if they are at average risk and do not have symptoms.

The agency also said men between ages 55 and 69 'should make individual decisions about being screened for prostate cancer screening.'

Dexter Scott King and his wife Leah Weber King. The two got married in a private ceremony in July 2013

Dexter Scott King, pictured on mother Coretta's lap as a two-year-old, was just seven when his father was assassinated in Memphis in 1968

What is prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer forms from cancerous cells in the prostate, a walnut-sized organ that is only found in men.

Located between the base of the penis and the rectum, the prostate produces fluid that mixes with sperm to help it travel and survive.

The urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body through the penis, runs through the center of the prostate.

According to the ACS, almost all prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, which form from mucus-producing glands in the body.

In prostate cancer, these develop from cells that make prostate fluid that is added to semen.

What causes prostate cancer?

Doctors are not entirely sure what causes prostate cancer, though they have identified some risk factors.

Older men are the most likely group to develop the condition. The ACS estimates that 60 percent of prostate cancers are found in men over age 65.

However, many in this group could also be experiencing symptoms due to prostate enlargement rather than prostate cancer.

An enlarged prostate, which has affected famous men like King Charles III, typically strikes patients over age 50. More than 90 percent of cases are in men over 80.

Doctors suspect this is due to changes in hormones as men age.

African-American men are at a higher risk for developing the cancer, having the cancer spread, and being diagnosed before 50 years old.

In some cases, genetics could be to blame. Mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, for example, have been linked to increased risks of prostate, breat, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers, among others.

Other risk factors include smoking, having obesity, sexually transmitted infections, genetics and exposure to Agent Orange, a chemical used during the Vietnam War.

What is the prognosis?

Though prostate cancer is common, it generally responds well to treatment if caught early.

Cases that stay confined to the prostate and surrounding organs have a 99 percent survival rate, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

However, because prostate cancer often doesn't cause symptoms at first, it can be difficult to identify before it spreads.

In the later stages, the survival rate dwindles to 34 percent.

There are several treatments for prostate cancer.

One is a prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgery to remove all or part of the prostate gland to rid the body of cancer. There are two minimally invasive prostatectomy procedures: laparoscopic surgery and robotic-assisted surgery.

These procedures involve making several small incisions that doctors use to insert surgical tools and a camera to see the surgical field.

In a laparoscopic procedure, doctors use a tool with a long handle while viewing magnified images from a camera on a video screen.

In a robotic-assisted prostate surgery, doctors use a specialized robotic system to make small incisions in the patient's abdomen that allow surgeons to access the prostate.
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.'
If pre-2010 trends had continued, people would have 10,200 more spare cash

People today have 10,200 less spending money than they would have if pre-2010 disposable income trends had continued in the UK, new research shows.

People are out of pocket in 56 of the UK's 63 largest towns and cities, compared to pre-2010 growth rates, the research by Centre for Cities revealed.

Residents of Aberdeen are the worst off on average, with disposable income down by 45,240 on where it would have been.

Centre for Cities says this would be equivalent to an extra two years of disposable income.

The city, which is dependent on the gas and oil sector, has lost an estimated 9,000 jobs in that industry since 2010 while retail jobs have fallen by almost a third, compared with a fall of just 6 per cent nationally.

Aberdeen has been the worst-hit city, with residents losing out on 45,240 since 2010 compared to if incomes had risen in line with pre-2010 growth

If you live in Burnley, your wallet suffered the second worst disposable income hit, with the average person losing out on 28,090.

The residents of Glasgow, Milton Keynes and Cambridge all followed suit with people out of pocket for more than 20,000.

Dundee, Birkenhead, Ipswich, Exeter and Plymouth are also among the top ten worst affected areas, with people in these areas losing more than 16,000.

Gross disposable income The report uses the ONS measure of gross disposable household income per head. The ONS says: 'Gross disposable household income (GDHI) is the amount of money that all the individuals in the household sector have available for spending or saving after they have paid direct and indirect taxes and received any direct benefits.' On the per head element, the ONS adds: 'Estimates can be divided by the resident population of a country, region, or area to give a value per head. This can be a useful way of comparing regions of different sizes. Because GDHI is measured according to the residence of the person, not their place of work, GDHI per head is not subject to distortion from commuting. It does, however, include the entire population of an area, including children and retired people.'

Why did disposable income growth fall?

Centre for Cities says the shortfall in disposable income compared to previous growth rates is a result of a jobs boom in the UK since 2010, which has not been accompanied by growth in productivity - a key driver of higher wages.

While all but two places saw the number of jobs available grow, productivity growth lagged pre-2010 performance in all but five cities.

Previously strong performers like Cambridge, Milton Keynes and London struggled, hitting local incomes and pulling down national productivity growth, the report said.

Higher housing costs also ate into disposable income. The report found that housing became less affordable in almost every place in the 2010s, with the steepest rises in in the Greater South East such as Cambridge, London and Brighton.

'A comparison of disposable incomes in the UK's 63 largest cities and towns over time reveals that every place is out of pocket  both North and South, and from former industrial towns to innovation superstars,' the Centre for Cities' report said.

London made 17th place on the list, with residents 13,080 worse off on average.

Only seven areas saw their disposable income grow at or above pre-2010 levels, with the people of Derby on average 2,110 better off.

Telford residents were 1,770 better off, and those in Northampton saw a rise of 1,160.

People in York, Slough, Aldershot and Bristol were all better off too, but by less than 1,000 each on average, with just 50 more in the pockets of Bristolians.

Residents of Crawley, Huddersfield and Bradford did see their disposable income fall, but saw the smallest losses.

The UK has had a torrid time since the Great Recession. Everywhere, up and down the country, has been levelled down because of the lack of growth Centre for Cities' Andrew Carter

The think tank said that although some places saw higher incomes than what 1998-2010 trends would have achieved, this was due to underwhelming economic performances pre-2010, rather than a stronger performance in recent years.

Andrew Carter, Centre for Cities' chief executive, said: 'Both the two main political parties have pledged to grow the economy and the general election debate will have growth at its heart.

'The challenge for the next Government is to go beyond the rhetoric and to do what's needed to make this rhetoric a reality.'

The number of people in work increased in all cities but two, while productivity was behind pre-2010 levels in 58 cities, including formerly strong performers like London, Cambridge and Milton Keynes bringing overall productivity levels downwards, it said.

'The UK has had a torrid time since the Great Recession. Everywhere, up and down the country, including places that were doing relatively well before, has been levelled down because of the lack of growth,' Carter said.

'To get growth in every place, the next Government needs to act at a radically different pace and scale, and mark the beginning of a multi-decade policy programme.'
Rail passengers are being threatened with court action for having the wrong tickets by undercover inspectors from a third party company employed by train operators, MailOnline can reveal.

Chiltern Railways and Transport for Wales are among those who now franchise out prosecutions to a private security company called Transport Investigations Ltd (TIL).

But the Campaign for Better Transport (CfBT) said such 'deployment of undercover agency staff risks compromising the valuable bond of trust between staff and passengers', adding that ticket inspectors 'should have nothing to hide'.

While most train firms across Britain still have in-house prosecution departments, employees from the Ramsgate-based company have also previously worked on the Docklands Light Railway, Arriva CrossCountry and the now-defunct Virgin Trains.

Its workers often dress in tracksuits to look like ordinary people on board trains, so travellers do not realise who they are until they stand up and start asking for tickets.

However some passengers have told MailOnline the inspectors are unreasonable, aggressive and unfairly penalise them for not having the correct identification. They are also accused of sending aggressive and misspelt letters with threats of court action, and replying late at night to emails from people contesting the fines.

While TIL is not accused of doing anything illegal, their practices have come under the microscope at a time when passengers are bracing for a 4.9 per cent fare rise on National Rail regulated fares from this March amid further Aslef strikes on the way.

And a spokesman for the passenger watchdog London TravelWatch told MailOnline that it was important for rail operators to 'ensure that all ticket inspectors carry the necessary identification that authorises them to issue the appropriate action.'

Have YOU been caught by undercover inspectors? Email jack.wright@mailonline.co.uk

A rail passenger took this picture of an undercover ticket inspector on the train earlier this month, saying on social media: 'Was a bunch of them looking super out of place and out of nowhere start checking tickets. Title was 'ticket fraud investigator'. Couldn't stop laughing'

Most UK train firms still have in-house prosecution departments. Here, a member of a revenue protection team - not affiliated to TIL - checks tickets on a South Western Railway service

Michael Solomon Williams, from the CfBT, said today: 'Ticket inspectors are needed to protect revenue but this deployment of undercover agency staff risks compromising the valuable bond of trust between staff and passengers.

'With the railways currently in direct government control we are in the ludicrous situation where train operating companies have no incentive to ensure passengers aren't dodging fares.

'We need more ticket inspectors, but they should have nothing to hide.'

One passenger told MailOnline that they were aggressively threatened with a fine of 98.70 and then being taken to magistrates' court by TIL over alleged fare evasion on a Chiltern service in August 2021 when she in fact had a fully paid-for ticket.

She was asked to provide her 136.60 weekly ticket by an undercover investigator named only as 'T8248'.

The passenger showed this ticket, but had accidentally mislaid the accompanying photocard which is technically required to be carried with it and the case was therefore passed onto the investigation team.

The accompanying photocard ID for a weekly ticket does not afford the carrier any discounted travel - it is simply proof that they are the person traveling.

The passenger later proved with alternative ID in the following weeks that she was the person who was travelling.

After MailOnline made representations to Chiltern on the passenger's behalf, the fine was cancelled.

Another passenger revealed on the popular RailUK forum how their ordeal began after they bought a flexible season ticket from LNER for 130 which allowed travel from one station to another via any route and operator.

Rail ticket inspectors work with British Transport Police officers in some areas of the network, including on Merseyrail (pictured). There is no suggestion that this rail operator works with TIL

In July 2021, they were granted access at the station barriers but on board a CrossCountry train were told the card was invalid - and would either have to pay for a new ticket or be given a day access pass while their details were taken to investigate.

READ MORE More train strike chaos for passengers as train drivers on LNER announce five day walkout on February 5 in long running pay dispute Advertisement

The passenger agreed to the latter - and one month later received a letter from a TIL who asked for 'mitigation' of claim that they had travelled with an invalid ticket.

They replied with screenshots of their smartcard, photocard and an image from the ticket manager app showing they had an activated flexi season ticket.

But three weeks later they heard from a 'company prosecutor' who said this was inadequate and they would taken the case to court  with a possible sentence of a fine of up to 1,000 or up to three months in prison.

They said the emails were intimating and invoked anxiety, adding that they all were all sent either late at night or on weekends and the tone was 'unprofessional, emotionally manipulative and intimidating'.

A back-and-forth followed with TIL before they finally got another email stating the case was closed because it was a technical error.

Solicitors firm Gray Hooper Holt, based in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, is among the companies that has taken on cases for passengers contesting fines from TIL.

In one case, it said a young man was reported by Chiltern staff for consideration for prosecution after he was found with 'short tickets'  when you pay for a shorter journey than you have done - at London Marylebone station.

He then received a pre-court action letter from TIL, but asked the legal firm for help. They wrote to the company and the case was closed within a week.

Chiltern Railways is among the rail operators in the UK using a third party firm for fare evasion

In a second case, a teacher travelling on Chiltern Railways was summonsed to attend court for fare evasion by TIL, having made many attempts over months to get an 'administrative disposal' which involves paying a fine.

READ MORE Rail firm LNER hits passengers with Uber-style surge pricing after scrapping off-peak tickets to introduce new fare which becomes more expensive when trains are busier Advertisement

But TIL rebuffed the woman and carried on with its prosecution plans, which she believed could result in her losing her job.

Her first court hearing was due in less than a week when she contacted Gray Hooper Holt, which then filed a not guilty plea and convinced TIL to halt the prosecution and come to an out-of-court settlement.

A third case saw a financial advisor in a hurry to keep an appointment in London, who boarded a CrossCountry service with a ticket covering the first part of his journey.

He intended to buy the second part while on board the train, but a revenue officer claimed he was trying to avoid paying his fare - and he was reported to TIL.

The man tried to convince TIL to accept that his intentions were honest, but TIL said it was his responsibility to ensure that he had a valid ticket for his entire journey before boarding the train under the Regulation of Railways Act 1889.

The man then instructed Gray Hooper Holt and it came to an informal agreement with TIL before a criminal court summons had been raised - which could have then been revealed by an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

TIL describes itself as the 'leading provider of revenue protection teams, supported by a self-funding private prosecution service'.

Transport for Wales (TfW) also employs ticket inspectors from Transport Investigations Ltd

The firm says rail operators can reduce fare evasion and generate revenue by 'utilising this cost-effective integrated service, supplied by the experts in the field'.

It adds that its 'emphasis is on educating and changing passenger behaviour, ensuring an appropriate balance is struck between enforcement and fairness'.

The company also notes the negative PR associated with ticket inspectors, saying that utilising a third party can enable a train operator to 'keep a positive emphasis on its brand'.

It supplies workers as an 'extra resource or on a managed service contract', which it says enables clients to 'target fare evasion when and how they wish, without year-round overheads'.

The firm also has a 'specialised fare recovery and prosecutions department' to process unpaid fare notices and fare evasion reports, as well as carrying out private prosecutions  which it again says 'can allow this activity to be separated from the client's brand'.

It adds: 'Utilising our gateline staffing teams can lead to a marked improvement in both customer service and fare collection. Our model enables us to provide fresh and proactive staff in a role where in-house staff sometimes feel de-motivated and helpless.'

Its managing director is Richard Malins, who celebrates his 79th birthday this month and has nearly 50 years of railway experience, 30 of which were with British Rail.

Mr Malins joined British Rail as a graduate trainee in York in 1966, before working in management in Broxbourne, West Wales, Exeter, Nottingham and London.

He then went into consultancy and worked for London Transport, now Transport for London (TfL), before establishing TIL in November 1996.

Chiltern Railways will be hit by strikes when industrial action is taken next month on February 5

Chiltern Railways is understood to operate an in-house 'revenue protection' team, but TIL assists it on investigation, settlements and prosecution should cases reach that point.

A spokesman for Chiltern Railways told MailOnline: 'Transport Investigations Ltd conduct investigations on behalf of Chiltern Railways following reports of ticketless travel.

'We know that the vast majority of our customers pay the correct fare, but the actions of a small minority means that there's less money available for investment to improve the railway for everyone.

'We will take action against people who travel without a ticket and not hesitate in moving towards prosecution if necessary. On occasion, during investigations, mitigations and further evidence are presented.

'These are considered with due care on a case-by-case basis. Many train operators, including Chiltern, still receive subsidies from the taxpayer via government.

'We have a responsibility to make sure that everyone pays for the service they use, as money currently lost from the system can be used to help fund improvements for our current and future customers.'

A spokeswoman for CrossCountry told MailOnline that its revenue protection team had confirmed they do not currently use TIL 'in any aspect of our revenue protection activities on the CrossCountry network'.

Transport for London (TfL) also confirmed to MailOnline that there are no TIL workers across its network.

In addition, MailOnline has contacted Transport for Wales, the Rail Delivery Group and TIL for comment.
Tortured neighbours have revealed the hell of living next to a scandal-hit prison where inmates escape, drugs are dumped over walls and guards fall in love with prisoners.

Locals have complained HMP Forest Bank in Salford, Greater Manchester is like the 'Wild West' with cars being firebombed and gangsters' molls visiting in plush cars.

In the latest scandal, a female guard has just been moved off one of the wings over an alleged 'inappropriate' relationship with a jailed former police officer.

There have been a number of escape attempts from prisoners with one dressing up as a teacher in a bid to fool prison guards, while in 2019 four armed men bungled an attempt to spring a drugs king-pin from the jail.

Staff cars have also been targeted by thugs, with one prison officer's car torched in an arson attack last November following a spate of attacks in 2022, which saw six cars vandalised in the prison car park.

But people living near the men's prison have said it also has a reputation for sex attacks and scandals, violence, arsonists targeting staff cars and widespread drug use.

One rapist at the prison died after being found 'covered in blood' in his cell just days after he was handed a life sentence - with 'incised wounds' to his neck, an inquest heard.

Dog walker Aaron Mills, 46, said: 'That prison is like the Wild West - there's always something going on. People have used drones to drop stuff over the walls or even thrown it over in socks. And you see all the women visiting - they park up in fancy cars. A lot of them have had plastic surgery or are tottering around on heels. They do their make-up in the cars.'

Rapist Vasile Nastase (pictured) died after he was found in his cells covered in blood - with wounds to his neck, an inquest heard last year

It was reported in 2022 that a gang smuggled drugs, phones and tobacco into the prison by throwing packages over its walls after being ordered to by serving inmates

Neighbours of scandal-hit HMP Forest Bank in Salford, Gtr Manchester, (pictured) have said it is like living by a 'nest of vipers' as it is so often scarred by trouble

Last year a former guard at the prison, Joanne Hunter (pictured), 28, was jailed for three years for also having an inappropriate relationship with an inmate

Hunter conducted the relationship with Connor Willis while working at Forest Bank

Mother-of-two Susan Hill, 59, said: 'There's always something going on. Whether it's escapes, drug overdoses in the prison or sex attacks on inmates. A while ago two men on a motorbike torched some prison officers cars.

'It's like living next door to a nest of vipers. It's shocking. It doesn't feel the safest place. You sometimes here people screaming. They take drugs and then attack each other.'

Another neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: 'The place really does need sorting.

'A while ago, someone seemed to escape every few weeks and there have been arson attacks on cars. It needs stamping out.'

Footage shows inmates filming a rap video right under the noses of guards after they reportedly smuggled phones in to shoot the clip before posting it on YouTube.

The clip shows Forest Bank prisoners mouthing the words to their rap in their cells, with no officers in sight.

The two-minute video, featuring rappers named L1 Manny and Mazza L20, said it is 'filmed by all the mandem' and begins with a message that reads: 'This music video was filmed on the wings.' It includes lyrics such as: 'Do you know what it's like when you lose hope, seven years straight and you still gotta do sosh?'

Last year a former guard at the prison was jailed for three years for having an inappropriate relationship with an inmate.

Joanne Hunter, 28, conducted the relationship with Connor Willis while working at Forest Bank.

Hunter - described as 'naive' and 'vulnerable' in court - believed Willis was 'in love' with her and agreed to smuggle packages, including cannabis, into prison for him

Footage shows inmates filming a rap video right under the noses of guards after they reportedly smuggled phones in to shoot the clip before posting it on YouTube

The clip shows Forest Bank prisoners mouthing the words to their rap in their cells, with no officers in sight

Several men gathered in the exercise yard at HMP Forest Bank, in Salford, as burning socks were hurled over

Hunter - described as 'naive' and 'vulnerable' in court - believed Willis was 'in love' with her and agreed to smuggle packages, including cannabis, into prison for him. She also sent him explicit photographs, which were later found on her phone.

Another female prison officer working at the prison was recently moved from her wing after she was accused of striking up a relationship with an inmate.

Former police officer James Riley, 28, enjoyed several perks as a result of the fling, including a job and extra time out of his cell.

Thug Riley was jailed for 16 years last week after trying to kill his ex-partner Ellie Moxham by throttling her and putting a plastic bag over her head.

In September last year, sex offender Katana Paris who identifies as a woman, admitted groping two prison officers while being served food in a cell. Paris, 27, who was part way through a three-year sentence at the time for attacking a nurse, assaulted the male and female staff members at Forest Bank in 2022.

The inmate admitted two counts of sexual assault at Manchester Crown Court and was handed a further six-month sentence.

In November last year a prison officer's car was torched in an arson attack in the car park. It was the latest in a number of attacks on staff cars.

In 2022 vandals damaged three cars which followed a similar wrecking spree in July 2022 when another three cars were vandalised.

There have been numerous reports into overcrowding at the jail as well as drug overdoses, sex attacks and rape.

Another female prison officer working at the prison (pictured) was recently moved from her wing after she was accused of striking up a relationship with inmate James Riley

James Riley, 28, was jailed for 16 years last week for attempted murder, after what a judge told him was a 'brutal and determined' two-minute attempt on academic Ellie Moxham's life

He tried to kill his ex-partner Ellie (pictured) by throttling her and putting a plastic bag over her head

In September last year sex offender Katana Paris (pictured) who identifies as a woman, admitted groping two prison officers while being served food in a cell

A clip posted on YouTube shows inmates filming a music video in their cells with no officers in sight

One rapist at the prison, Vasile Nastase, died after he was found covered in blood with wounds to his neck, an inquest heard last year.

The 49-year-old, who had previously been on remand at HMP Forest Bank, had admitted to a 'serious sexual offence', Manchester Evening News reported.

At an inquest into the prisoner's death, Coroner Mr Timothy Brennand told jurors that Nastase was 'not considered to be a problem inmate' when on remand and was 'engaging with prison life well'.

In May last year one inmate tried to escape by disguising himself as a teacher and in 2019 four masked men armed with a sawn-off shotgun bungled an attempt to spring a drugs king-pin from the jail.

The prison was thrown into a 'partial lockdown' at the end of last year due to a staffing crisis, sources at the jail reportedly claimed.

One prison officer told the Manchester Evening News: 'A lot of staff are off sick at the moment.'

Certain wings were operating in a 'night state' or a 'weekend regime' around the clock, where it was much less likely prisoners would be allowed out of their cells, the prisoner officer said.

'Staffing levels have hit an all-time low,' said the officer, who explained that it meant inmates 'are not being treated fairly'.

Forest Bank had more self-harm incidents linked to overdoses than any other jail in England or Wales for two years running, it was reported near the end of last year.

One packages fell to the floor and was quickly put out and scooped up by the convicts

Parcels seized and arrests made as part of an investigation into prison throw overs

A gang reportedly threw dozens of packages containing drugs, phones and tobacco over the walls of Forest Bank jail after they'd been ordered by serving prisoners

A targeted operation - known as Op Dragonfire - previously took place to tackle gang members operating from inside Forest Bank Prison

Locals have complained the prison is like the 'Wild West' with cars being firebombed, drugs dropped over the wall and gangsters' molls visiting in plush cars

Figures released by the Ministry of Justice revealed that the prison had 76 incidents in 2021, and 149 in 2022.

The figures for Forest Bank were reportedly significantly higher than those at any other prison.

Meanwhile, it was reported in 2022 that a gang smuggled drugs, phones and tobacco into the prison by throwing packages over its walls after being ordered to by serving inmates.

The items were sent into the prison in 'prepared to order' packs, after boss James Rourke recruited a group to help him throw the parcels into the exercise yards, ITVX reported.

READ MORE: Footage shows brazen prison inmates smuggling 'drugs' into jail as packages are thrown over the walls inside burning socks Advertisement

Inmates were filmed smuggling contraband into the jail after it was hurled over the prison walls inside burning socks, it was reported in 2021.

Footage, which is believed to have been filmed at Forest Bank, shows several men gathered in the exercise yard as the socks, which are understood to have contained drugs, are thrown into prison grounds.

The flaming socks burn holes in the security netting and fall into the hands of the inmates below as the convict filming the scenes shouts: 'Go on, the boys. Go on, our lads!'

A total of three illicit packages were thrown over the prison walls inside the burning socks.

During the clip, a flaming package, which has been hurled over the prison walls, falls to the floor and is quickly put out and scooped up by the convicts.

Two other packages continue to burn on top of the net, as the inmates look on anxiously and the person filming the scenes shouts: 'Come on, burn through c**t'.

After several seconds, the two remaining parcels eventually drop through the hole and are snaffled by the inmates.

The men then casually walk away and rest against a nearby fence in an effort to look nonchalant.
Suzanne Sanna has received more primary mailing shots from Nikki Haley than anyone else. They all go straight in the garbage.

'Nikki Haley?' she said, before making the sound of someone gagging.

'I don't think she's strong enough. I don't think we're ready for a woman president. And I just think she'll have us in a war by noontime tomorrow.'

Sanna is all in for Trump and on Saturday attended his rally in Manchester, New Hampshire.

She is not alone, according to the results of a J.L. Partners/DailyMail.com poll, which found that the former president has a 17-point lead over Haley among women primary voters in the state.

Donald Trump has a clear lead over Nikki Haley among female voters in Tuesday's New Hampshire primary. She is more competitive among men, according to our poll

Polling by J.L. Partners has shown that Trump's lead has been driven by MAGA women. On Saturday, supporters gathered at the SNHU Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire

Trump has the support of 54 percent of women who say they will vote in Tuesday's crucial New Hampshire primary.

Haley can count on only 37 percent of them.

She is more competitive among men. She wins 34 percent of their support, compared with 38 percent for Trump.

It is an extraordinary outcome for a former president who has struggled to win over women in general elections, and who faces making a huge payout to writer E. Jean Carroll after a New York court concluded he sexually assaulted her.

Overall, the poll reveals that Haley is 10 points behind the Republican frontrunner, in a state where she needs to finish with a win or a close second place.

James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners, said Haley had failed to build a winning coalition among Republicans.

'Since we started polling this primary season, it is Republican women who have been the most pro-Trump. That looks set to repeat itself in New Hampshire,' he said.

'Women cite Trump's strength, first term record, and plans for the economy and the border as their main reason to back him, while Haley has not built the coalition with Republican women that she needs.

'Her problem is larger than just gender.

'She has ended up being the candidate of independents in a Republican race and is not able to win without winning over Republicans in significantly more numbers than she is currently doing so.'

J.L. Partners surveyed 651 registered Republicans and undeclared voters in New Hampshire from January 17 to 21. The results carry a margin of error of plus/minus 3.9 percentage points

Haley is running a distant second to Trump in New Hampshire. Trump is odds on favorite for a big win in the state's primary and is looking increasingly unstoppable

Trump supporters filled the SNHU Arena in Manchester on Saturday evening

His company surveyed 651 registered Republicans and undeclared voters in New Hampshire who plan to vote in the primary. The poll was conducted from January 17 to 21 (after the results of the Iowa caucuses but just before DeSantis dropped out on Sunday.)

It also found that Haley comfortably beat Trump among undeclared voters, by 59 percent to 34 percent.

Her campaign is intent on trying to drive up turnout on Tuesday, in the hope that moderates and independents can dilute the former president's tight grip on the base of his party.

But Haley's support among those groups is a cause for suspicion among Trump supporters.

'Nikki Haley is a RINO,' said Mary Lynn Galgano, 64, a retired physical therapist, who was also at the Trump rally in Manchester, using an acronym for 'Republican in name only.'

'She's the Democrats' candidate. She's supported by George Soros and I would never ever, ever vote for her.'

Supporters hold signs that say 'Women for Nikki' at a campaign event in Iowa, where Haley finished a distant third behind Trump. She needs a good second place finish in New Hampshire

Ron DeSantis announced he was dropping out on Sunday afternoon. It means the crucial New Hampshire primary is a two-person contest between Trump and Haley

However, the Haley campaign insists women are a key part of her coalition.

It is launching a new ad in New Hampshire Monday, featuring the mother of Otto Warmbier, the American college student who died in 2017 after being imprisoned by North Korea.

Haley's campaign manager Betsy Ankney said the response among women and independent voters had been overwhelming.

'It's something that speaks to Nikki's character. It's something that speaks to her foreign policy chops,' she told a roundtable of journalists at the weekend.

'It's something that speaks to how she is as a leader and as a person. And I think that does really resonate with everyone but especially with women.
New Hampshire primary voters would like to see Vivek Ramaswamy join the Republican presidential ticket in 2024 as vice president, a new DailyMail.com poll reveals.

The question is on everyone's minds as Donald Trump appears on course to win the primary on Tuesday, taking another step closer to his party's nomination.

And he has begun using his campaign rallies as something close to casting calls, bringing on stage his possible VP picks.

Against that backdrop, J.L. Partners asked 651 people planning to vote in the primary who they would like as VP.

Biotech entrepreneur Ramaswamy came top with 18 percent, followed by Sen. Tim Scott on 14 percent.

A new DailyMail.com poll conducted by JL Partners shows that 18% of respondents would like to see biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy as vice president on the 2024 Republican president ticket

Ramaswamy dropped out of the 2024 primary race on the night of Iowa's caucuses on January 15  and immediately endorsed Donald Trump

Both ran against Trump for the nomination. Both dropped out. And both last week joined Trump on stage to endorse him.

James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners said Trump was unlikely to pick Ramaswamy.

'It will not be primary polls that the Trump team will be looking at when it comes to choosing their VP pick: it will be the general election polls,' he said.

'Though this research shows Vivek Ramaswamy doing well, it is unclear what he adds to the ticket in terms of broadening the Trump voting coalition.

'This is why Nikki Haley could still be an outside bet for VP: she wins with independent voters that will be key to crowning the next president come November.'

A third of respondents said they were undecided, giving Trump plenty of leeway to make his choice.

Both Trump and Haley have ruled out the prospect of running together. (Although both Trump and Haley have accused the other of flip-flopping during the course of the campaign.)

But there are plenty of other possibles. Ben Carson, the former neurosurgeon who served in Trump's cabinet, and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson are the choice of six percent each.

Behind them come two female governors: Sarah Huckerbee Sanders of Arkansas and Kristi Noem of South Dakota.

Sen. Tim Scott earned 14% and came in second among those who want to see him as VP

The poll was taken January 17-21, meaning the results came in before Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race on Sunday, January 21 and endorsed Trump

And then two of the best known MAGA women: Kari Lake who is running for an Arizona Senate seat and Rep. Elise Stefanik, who's star is on the rise after her grilling of three university presidents over their anti-harassment and antisemitism policies.

In the case of Scott and Ramaswamy, results illustrate how running for president can increase your national profile and put your name in the VP frame.

Ramaswamy, a self-made millionaire and biotech entrepreneur, dropped out of the race the night of the Iowa caucuses after earning less than eight percent of the vote.

The following night he joined Trump on stage, sparking more VP speculation.

'He's gonna be working with us and he'll be working with us for a long time,' said Trump.

The audience responded by chanting: 'VP! VP!'

Another contender is Rep. Elise Stefanik, seen her talking to reporters in Concord, Friday

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who served as Trump's White House press secretary, shot down the idea on Sunday that she would be open to being vetted for the VP position

Scott was the second former candidate to join Trump on the campaign trail as he jumped on stage in Concord, New Hampshire on Friday to issue his endorsement of the ex-president.

A day later he proposed to his girlfriend, Mindy Noce, at the beach in Kiawah Island in South Carolina. His bachelorhood was seen as a negative by some during his presidential run.

His appearance with Trump, included an introduction by Stefanik, whose meteoric rise has taken to the Republican Party's No. 4 House leadership post.

'Elise became very famous,' said a gushing Trump. He said her line of questioning was surgical. 'Wasn't it beautiful?'

Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson, who ran a failed 2016 primary bid, earned 6 percent  as did conservative television personality and former longtime Fox News host Tucker Carlson.

Other top female politicians like former Trump Press Secretary and Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem earned 5 percent each. And U.S. Senate hopeful Kari Lake from Arizona comes in with 4 percent.

The other four that made the list are with 3 percent GOP House Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, who came to New Hampshire to campaign with Trump; Virginia Gov. Glenn Yougkin with 3 percent; Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) with 2 percent; and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) with 1 percent.

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) got 0 percent from the survey.

NBC Face the Nation host Margaret Brennan asked Gov. Sanders on her Sunday program if she would be 'open to vetting to be vice president' in 2024.

'Look, I absolutely love the job I have,' Sanders said, in a noncommittal reply. 'I think it's one of the best jobs I could ever ask for and I'm honored to serve as governor and I'm hoping to do it for the next seven years.'
A Sydney council has sparked controversy with its decision to mark Australia Day with an Anzac Day-style 'dawn reflection' ceremony at Bondi Beach.

The service, hosted by Waverley Council, will acknowledge the resilience and survival of Aboriginal people. It will include a Welcome to Country from a traditional custodian and a smoking ceremony.

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' because it marks the beginning of Australia's colonisation.

Mayor Paula Masselos said: 'Council understands that January 26 has multiple meanings and it can be a difficult day for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Bondi will host a dawn 'reflection' from 5.30am Friday (Pictured: An Anzac Day dawn service)

'It can be considered a day of mourning, but also a day to acknowledge the ongoing resilience and survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions and cultures.

'It is not only a time to reflect, but also an opportunity to learn from our First Nations people, which will help Council mark January 26 in a more complete way.'

The decision by Waverley Council to hold a 'dawn reflection' service at Bondi Beach for Australia Day appears similar to the traditional use of dawn services, which are usually associated with Anzac Day.

'Truly divisive,' one local said, while another questioned why a dawn ceremony was being held on Australia Day: 'You guys [council] sound a little confused.'

Others said it was a move in the right direction.

'A great way to start the 26th; paying respect then moving forward,' one said.

A second added: 'Reflection is a beautiful thing.'

Waverley Council will continue to host citizenship ceremonies for the community's newest Australian citizens later in the day, unlike almost 100 councils nationwide, which have abandoned the ritual on Australia Day.

The move comes after a poll revealed less than one in five Australians want to change the date of Australia Day.

Nearly two-thirds of Australians, 63 per cent, agree the date of Australia Day should stay as January 26, according to the Institute of Public Affairs poll.

Meanwhile, NSW Premier Chris Minns has urged Aussies to celebrate Australia Day.

'This is a day for us all to celebrate with your family and friends, recognise that we live in the greatest country on Earth. I definitely will be doing that.'
MBABANE - South African star, MaWhoo says she was not expecting a full crowd this Jan-worry.

The Jan-worry chronicles have nothing on local fun lovers as they turned up at Solanis Shisanyama for a show dubbed City Girls R Up which was headlined by MaWhoo. Born, Thandeka Ngema, MaWhoo is a dynamic female performer with a distinct sound that sets her apart from her peers. The Ngilimele hitmaker expressed her appreciation and excitement after delivering a thrilling performance.

She said she was not expecting a full house, especially because most people do not go out during this time of the month. Honestly, I was expecting a few people. I was so surprised to see the place filled up. Most people do not go out during this time of the year. I was actually surprised to even get a booking around this month, she said. When asked about her performance, she said it was amazing as the crowd sang along to all her songs.

Reception

Eswatini always feels like home, the reception was great. To see people singing along to your songs is humbling, she said. Her music is geared toward adults and speaks for other ladies who are unable to completely express their desires and demands. She says her music and style is a gift that was curated to soothe and heal people. Her energetic performance left patrons yearning for more. She was supported by some of the best local female DJs including DJ Expo, Black Pearl, Itsallblaq, Ash and Zoleka to mention a few. The Prefect set the mood with her Amapiano set, fused with Gqom sounds. Wassabee made them dab and twerk with a clean Hip Hop set. As if that was not enough, Lady Zee shut it down with her thrilling set. Belinda Chester also showcased killer dance moves as she served good music. It was a night filled with epic dance moves and good music only served by female DJs.

In an interview with some of the fun lovers, they all attested to having a great time.
A Tesla driver's road trip to regional Victoria turned into a major ordeal after a charging hiccup.

Melbourne man Ryan Cowan was holidaying with his family in Daylesford when he needed to charge his Tesla Model Y.

He went to a charging station on Victoria Street, but the charger just 'refused to work.'

'This is the second time the same one was a problem for us, and we didn't have enough battery to make it to the closest supercharger,' Mr Cowan said.

He had to return to their accommodation - which did not have EV charging infrastructure - and use an extension cord to charge the family car.

'We used an extension cord at our accommodation to charge the cars overnight, but this reduced it down to 5amps, which was painfully slow,' Mr Cowan said.

'So, yeah, next time, we will be making sure our accommodation has chargers installed.'

Melbourne man Ryan Cowan was holidaying with his family in Daylesford when he tried to use a local charging station to charge his Model Y Tesla (pictured)

Mr Cowan said the local station on Vincent Street 'refused to work' forcing him to charge his EV with an extension cord back at his accommodation

Mr Cowan advised fellow EV owners to book accomodation which has EV charging installed (pictured, Mr Cowan and his wife Paige with their Model Y Tesla)

Petrol and diesel car owners were quick to call out Mr Cowan.

'That why I love my V8 landcruiser. Drive to fuel station. Fill and go.'

A second added: 'I don't think I've ever had a petrol bowser not working.

A third declared: 'Simple solution, get a car that is not electric.'

Others claimed Australia does not yet have the infrastructure for electric vehicles.

'The reality of is that we just don't have the infrastructure for EV cars. Private entities will build it up and charge through the nose to use it,' one person wrote.

'Imagine buying an electric car when the infrastructure can't handle it yet,' a second person commented.

'Barely over an hour from the CBD and issues with finding fuel/electricity. I love electric cars but the infrastructure here is not ready for growing EV market,' a third chimed.

'The current infrastructure for road trips is not great but day-to-day living with an EV Car is absolutely amazing,' a fourth added.

Another EV owner wrote: 'I keep getting burnt by chargers as well! They are constantly out of order!'

Electric vehicle charging sites will double in Australia again over the coming year, according to a new report, on top of record-breaking growth over the past 12 months.

The analysis, released by consulting firm Next System on Tuesday, found car-charging sites surged by 90 per cent in Australia during 2023.

It also found that even though Tesla dominated electric vehicle sales it was Chargefox that provided the greatest share of charging sites.

The findings come after record sales of electric vehicles, and despite concerns from some potential buyers that Australia's charging network was not large enough to support the technology.

The Public Fast Charger Network Report found Australia had seen another 397 car-charging sites and 755 new charging points built during 2023, but predicted that number would rise significantly higher in 2024.

Next System founder Daniel Bleakley said the analysis showed charging stations were already planned for another 470 locations throughout Australia and a total of 900 new charging sites could be expected during the year.

'After a slow start, growth in Australia's public EV fast charger network is clearly accelerating,' Mr Bleakley said.

'Lack of public fast-charging infrastructure is often quoted to be a major barrier to electric vehicle uptake in Australia, however our report shows the EV-charging network is actually now growing faster than the Australian EV fleet.'

The report found local firm Chargefox had installed the greatest number of electric chargers in Australia, operating more than one in three charging sites, followed by Evie Networks with 23 per cent of the market, and Tesla with 10 per cent.

Jolt and NRMA followed in fourth and fifth spot, while electric car charging stations from traditional petrol retailers BP and Ampol claimed sixth and seventh positions as their national rollout ramped up.

US automaker Tesla offered the greatest power through its electric chargers, however, with its Supercharger network representing almost half of Australia's charging network's capacity, according to the report.

The findings come after Australians purchased more than 87,000 electric cars in 2023, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, representing more than seven per cent of all new vehicles and more than double the number sold in 2022.

The availability of public charging stations was one of the biggest concerns for motorists who were weighing up whether to purchase an electric vehicle, according to a Pureprofile survey of more than 2000 Australians late last year, second only to their purchase price.
Victims of the Troubles have said they are appalled by the sum spent on the film

They are now subjects of a publicly funded, semi-autobiographical film

Kneecap, a controversial Belfast band, have been accused of glorifying the IRA

An astonishing 1.6million of public money has funded a film about a rap group accused of glorifying the IRA and stoking sectarian hatred.

Victims of Republican and Loyalist terror atrocities said they were appalled that vast sums of taxpayers' and National Lottery cash was spent on the semi-autobiographical film starring Kneecap, from Belfast.

The group  named after the paramilitary punishment of shooting someone in the knee  dress in balaclavas and promote themselves using images of petrol bombs.

They also chant Republican slogans used by the IRA, have unveiled murals depicting violent attacks on police, mocked the Queen's death and called for 'Brits out of Ireland'.

Despite politicians in Northern Ireland previously accusing Kneecap of 'fostering hatred', last week they enjoyed fawning national coverage on the BBC where they were hailed as being at the 'forefront of Irish hip hop'.

Around 1.6m of public money has gone towards funding a semi-autobiographical film about Kneecap, a controversial republican rap group from Belfast

Poster for the 2020 'Farewell to the Union' Kneecap tour that showed Boris Johnson and Alene Foster strapped to a rocket on top of a burning bonfire

Kneecap met with former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn last month, who described the controversial group as 'inspiring'

Kneecap arrived at Sundance Film Festival in Utah for the premiere of their eponymous Irish language film in an armoured police Land Rover graffitied with the band's name.

Last night bomb victims accused the group of being 'sectarian bigots' and glamourising terrorism, adding that they were sickened by the BBC coverage and the film's public funding.

The handout was especially galling when many who were bereaved or disabled in terror attacks during the Troubles had been denied payouts from a government compensation scheme, they added.

Kneecap, who Jeremy Corbyn has hailed as 'inspiring', use a black balaclava as their social media symbol, the headgear famously worn by IRA terrorists when appearing in public.

Band member JJ O Dochartaigh  who uses the stage name DJ Provai  is always pictured wearing a balaclava and makes shooting gestures at audiences during gigs. He posted one image reading a book entitled Provos  the nickname for the Provisional IRA. Another post by the band said the terrorist group had been 'resisting' British imperialism.

The group's Farewell to the Union tour was promoted with an image of then prime minister Boris Johnson and former DUP leader Arlene Foster strapped to a rocket on top of a burning bonfire, as two band members crouched at the bottom holding a petrol bomb.

Merchandise sold on the group's website includes a petrol bomb scarf, badge and T-shirt.

In 2022 the group shouted 'Brits out of Ireland' as they unveiled a mural of a burning police Land Rover above the Irish language slogan: 'No welcome for the RUC.'

The image provoked horror in Northern Ireland, where more than 300 members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary were murdered in terror attacks during the Troubles, with politicians warning it would groom a new generation of youngsters in sectarian hatred.

Band member Naoise O Caireallain  who uses the stage name Moglai Bap  responded to the backlash by telling The Guardian: 'We haven't stopped laughing.' He insisted the mural was 'just art'.

Kneecap mockingly posted a clip of a song entitled Get Your Brits Out alongside a BBC news clip announcing the Queen's death.

Kneecap, named after the paramilitary punishment of shooting someone in the knee, often dress in balaclavas

Kneecap arrived at Sundance Film Festival in Utah for the premiere of their eponymous Irish language film last week

Mo Chara and JJ O Docartaigh, who uses the stage name DJ Provai, performing in Dublin last month. DJ Provai sometimes makes shooting gestures at the audience during gigs

Their film, a semi-fictionalised account of how they formed, is directed by Rich Peppiatt, a former Daily Star reporter who later admitted to making up stories.

The project received 810,000 from the National Lottery in four payments last year via the British Film Institute.

It also received 805,000 in public money from Northern Ireland Screen, including a large chunk from the UK taxpayer funded Irish Language Broadcast Fund. National Lottery cash must be used for the 'public good' and is distributed via 12 specialist organisations chosen by Parliament to fund projects in charity, sport, the arts and heritage. A puff piece promoting Kneecap and the film appeared on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, News 24, six o'clock news and BBC Online.

In other BBC reports the group, who declined to comment to the Mail, have claimed their work is satire and fun and those offended are 'just not getting the joke'.

But Edward O'Neill, who was five years old when a 1974 bomb attack by Loyalist paramilitaries in Dublin killed his father and left him with life-long injuries, described the coverage and the film's public funding as 'utterly appalling'.

Mr O'Neill, who was denied government compensation despite needing 68 operations, said Kneecap 'are terrorist sympathisers'.

He added: 'It's a vast hypocrisy by the BBC to be giving these people oxygen  it is kicking sand in the face of victims.'

Michael Gallagher, whose son Aiden, 21, was one of 29 people killed in the 1998 Real IRA Omagh bombing, said the BBC should do more to promote music in youngsters' best interests.

He added: 'A lot of young people don't understand the price that was paid for freedom.' Former British soldier Noel Downey, 60, who lost a leg in a 1990 IRA car bomb, said he was appalled public money had funded a film promoting 'sectarian bigots'.

Mr Downey is still awaiting a verdict on his application for compensation, nearly two and a half years after it was submitted.

The BBC said it 'made sure the audience was aware of the sometimes controversial aspects' of Kneecap's work and its role was to sometimes provide audiences with 'different views from their own'.

The BFI said its funding of a film 'is not an endorsement of the politics depicted in the film or of political statements made by those involved in making the film'.
The impartiality of the BBC is still an issue for audiences, the Government has warned, as ministers prepare to hand new powers to Ofcom to regulate the broadcaster's online news coverage.

In a bid to tackle concerns about perceived bias at the corporation, the Government is to push ahead with major reforms to improve 'audience confidence' in the broadcaster's objectivity and complaints system.

Under the first mid-term review of the BBC, to be unveiled today, ministers will extend Ofcom's oversight to cover parts of the corporation's online services, including the BBC News website.

Ministers will also assess the BBC's social media guidelines in the next charter review process, which is likely to start next year.

It follows a string of impartiality controversies about the corporation's highest paid star Gary Lineker and his political tweets.

Ministers will also assess the BBC's social media guidelines in the next charter review

Ministers prepare to hand new powers to Ofcom to regulate the broadcaster's online news coverage

It follows a string of impartiality controversies about the corporation's highest paid star Gary Lineker and his political tweets

With the number of BBC bias complaints to Ofcom rocketing last year, the review will warn that 'impartiality' is the 'quid pro quo of the licence fee'.

To tackle the issue, ministers will enable the regulator to hold the BBC to account in 'a more robust way'. Ofcom can only issue an 'opinion' on whether any online material has observed the BBC's editorial guidelines.

But under the review, the regulator will have 'formal enforcement powers', which could allow it to issue fines over rule breaches.

The BBC has been told to increase independent scrutiny of the way it handles complaints to ensure concerns are dealt with fairly.

A Whitehall source said recent incidents that had raised questions about impartiality have been 'forefront of ministers' minds' when formulating the changes.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport revealed the changes and pointed out 'impartiality continues to be an ongoing issue for audiences', noting concerns about objectivity made up the majority of complaints.

The BBC and Ofcom have agreed to implement the recommendations in the review, it is understood.

A BBC spokesman said: 'No other organisation takes its commitment to impartiality more seriously.'

An Ofcom spokesman said: 'We welcome the Government's report.'
The Government-backed regulator Ofcom already oversees BBC TV and radio news to try to ensure that Britain's national broadcaster fulfils what its charter calls its primary public purpose: 'to provide impartial news and information to help people understand and engage with the world around them'.

So, many will think it only right that the Government's mid-term review of the BBC hands Ofcom new powers to regulate its online news coverage, too.

BBC news online currently exists in a strangely unregulated wilderness.

This has long reflected the double standards embedded in the establishment's view of the online media: popular Conservative-minded newspapers such as the Daily Mail must be policed, in print and online, but the liberal BBC could be left unmolested to spread its prejudices across the internet.

When Lord Justice Leveson delivered his 2,000-page 2012 report into the 'culture, practice and ethics' of the UK media, he demanded state-backed regulation of our free Press.

The BBC headquarters at New Broadcasting House is illuminated at night in 2012

When Lord Justice Leveson (pictured) delivered his 2,000-page 2012 report into the 'culture, practice and ethics' of the UK media, he demanded state-backed regulation of our free Press

Yet only around a dozen pages dealt with what Leveson sniffily called the 'ethical vacuum' of the internet.

Leveson claimed he had ignored online outlets because, unlike with the Press, 'people will not assume that what they read on the internet is trustworthy or that it carries any particular assurance of accuracy'.

Yet 'trustworthy' and 'accurate' are exactly what people expect of the BBC as well as what its online news coverage claims to be.

It has been able to hide behind those false assurances while peddling woke propaganda on the web, about everything from trans rights to immigration  and, crucially today, Israel and anti-Semitism.

The Government's plan to give Ofcom more power online appears to stem from the controversy about an anti-Semitic attack on Jewish students travelling in a private bus on London's Oxford Street in November 2021.

The BBC online report claimed without any proof that 'anti- Muslim slurs' had been heard on the bus.

Despite complaints from Jewish organisations, the BBC left this libel on its website for almost eight weeks. Ofcom investigated and found BBC news guilty of 'significant editorial failings'.

But because the story was online, the regulator was only able to offer this as an 'opinion'; under the new rules it could issue a stricter ruling and punishment.

Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza has also brought the BBC's prejudices starkly into view online. Take the infamous example of the explosion at al-Ahli Hospital on October 17.

The Government-backed regulator Ofcom already oversees BBC TV and radio news

A BBC News alert and post on the BBC Breaking News X (formerly Twitter) account quickly declared: 'Hundreds feared dead or injured in Israeli air strike on hospital in Gaza, Palestinian official says.'

The 'Palestinian official' that the BBC quoted authoritatively online was of course Hamas.

And we soon knew that the explosion was really caused by a stray Islamist rocket fired from inside Gaza. But with the assistance of BBC online, the lie had already gone around the worldwide web before the correction had got its boots on.

The Government's review notes that 'concerns about the broadcaster's objectivity' make up the majority of complaints about the BBC's editorial output.

Whether extending Ofcom's regulatory powers to BBC news online will really address these concerns is open to question.

Nevertheless, it is high time that BBC online news was called out for its political prejudices masquerading as impartiality.

Mick Hume is the author of Trigger Warning: Is The Fear Of Being Offensive Killing Free Speech?
The NHS is suffering its 'worst heart care crisis in living memory', experts warned last night.

Early deaths from heart disease have hit their highest level in more than a decade, figures reveal.

Cases of heart attacks, heart failure and strokes among the under-75s had tumbled since the 1960s thanks to plummeting smoking rates, advanced surgical techniques and breakthroughs such as stents and statins.

But now obesity, diabetes and undiagnosed high blood pressure are reversing six decades of progress.

Long waits for tests and treatment are also taking their toll, as are the knock-on effects of the Covid pandemic and recent industrial action by medics.

Early deaths from heart disease have hit their highest level in more than a decade, figures reveal (stock image)

Data analysed by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) shows progress in the battle against the killer condition appears to have come to an end.

The latest figures for 2022 reveal that heart disease killed 80 out of every 100,000 people in England  the highest rate since 2011, when it was 83.

Heart fatalities in the under-75s have risen for three consecutive years.

The BHF said it was a 'clear reversal in the trend for almost 60 years' and a sign the death toll from heart disease was rising again.

Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, associate medical director at the BHF and a consultant cardiologist, said: 'We're in the grip of the worst heart care crisis in living memory.

'Every part of the system providing heart care is damaged, from prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery; to crucial research that could give us faster and better treatments.

'This is happening at a time when more people are getting sicker and need the NHS more than ever.

'I find it tragic that we've lost hard-won progress to reduce early death from cardiovascular disease.'

The BHF said that even before the rise in death rates began in 2019, there had been a 'significant slowdown' in the rate of improvement since 2012.

Between 2012 and 2019, the premature death rate for cardiovascular disease in the UK fell by just 11 per cent, compared with 33 per cent between 2005 and 2012.

More than 39,000 people died prematurely of cardiovascular conditions including heart attacks, coronary heart disease and strokes in 2022  an average of 750 a week. This is the highest annual total since 2008.

Dr Babu-Narayan added: 'Increasing pressure in recent years on the NHS and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic are likely to have contributed to things getting worse, but warning signs have been present long before.

'Since 2010, decades of progress in cutting deaths from heart disease has stalled and the health gap between rich and poor has markedly widened.

'People living in the most deprived parts of England have been getting sicker and rates of some cardiovascular conditions have increased.

BHF chief executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths said the figures painted a 'heart-breaking picture' (stock image)

'Millions of people are living with undiagnosed risk factors such as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol and diabetes, and nearly two thirds of adults in England have a weight classed as overweight or obese. This is storing up even more problems for the future.'

BHF chief executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths said the figures painted a 'heart-breaking picture'.

She added: 'For more than half a century, pioneering research and medical advances helped us make huge strides towards reducing heart attack and stroke deaths.

But this has been followed by a lost decade of progress in which far too many people have lost loved ones to cardiovascular disease too soon.

'We can stop this heartbreak, but only if politicians unite to address the preventable causes of heart disease; cut long waiting lists for people who need lifesaving heart and stroke care; and help power scientific breakthroughs to unlock revolutionary new treatments and cures.'

Helen Williams, NHS England's national adviser for cardiovascular disease prevention, said the NHS 'has rolled out a range of preventative measures to support people to take control of their own health'.

'Thousands more... are now being supported to manage their condition more effectively than before the pandemic, reducing the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'This government has already taken significant action to reduce cardiovascular disease and its causes, including increasing access to testing and successfully encouraging reduced salt and sugar intake, but we know there is more to do.

'Our Major Conditions Strategy will of help prevent and manage conditions including cardiovascular disease while our plans to create a smokefree generation represent the most significant public health intervention in a generation.

'In addition, we are investing almost 17 million in an innovative new digital NHS Health Check, expected to deliver an additional one million health checks in its first four years.'

We didn't wait for the ambulance  Steve was dying!

Refusing to wait for an ambulance may have saved a 55-year-old man's life after he suffered a heart attack.

Steve Ware, a team manager for a pensions firm, was celebrating wife Michelle's birthday on January 9, 2022.

As his wife napped on the sofa at their home in Bristol while recovering from Covid, Mr Ware started to get waves of intense pain in his chest.

He didn't want to worry Michelle, so an hour passed before she woke up and called 999. Mr Ware, a stepfather of three, said: 'The ambulance call handler said I was a priority, but couldn't give me a timeframe for when an ambulance would arrive.

'As soon as Michelle got off the phone, I was hit by an excruciating wave of chest pain, so bad that I fell to my knees.

Close call: Steve Ware, 55, pictured with wife Michelle, went into cardiac arrest minutes after arriving at the hospital

'That's when Michelle said she wasn't going to take the risk of waiting for an ambulance and would drive me herself to Southmead Hospital Bristol.

'The last thing I remember is struggling to walk to the hospital reception and collapsing into the first chair I saw.'

Mr Ware went into cardiac arrest just minutes after arriving at the hospital. A nurse later told him that his heart had stopped for 19 seconds.

He was resuscitated with CPR and defibrillation.

He was taken by ambulance to the Bristol Heart Institute, where he had a stent fitted.

Mrs Ware, 54, said: 'As it was a Sunday, there wasn't much traffic. Looking back, I dread to think what the outcome could have been if it had been a weekday and in rush hour.

'Steve could have had his cardiac arrest in the car. The story would probably have been very different then.'

She added: 'After Steve had his stent fitted, we didn't get any advice for his recovery and he wasn't offered any cardiac rehabilitation for months. I was shocked at the lack of support.

'This massive thing had happened, Steve had nearly died, and we were just left to get on with life immediately afterwards.'
Dozens of SNP politicians and Scottish Government officials could face police action for deleting their Covid messages.

Lawyers acting for the families of pandemic victims say they plan to tighten the net on public figures who may have broken the law by erasing text conversations.

The move comes as the Scottish Covid Bereaved group prepares to make an official complaint to Police Scotland about Nicola Sturgeon, after the UK Covid Inquiry heard on Friday that her WhatsApp messages from throughout the pandemic have been deleted.

It also heard that all of her deputy John Swinneys messages have been automatically deleted.

In addition, Fridays hearing was shown a message from national clinical director Professor Jason Leitch in which he reacted to a warning that messages could be seen through a Freedom of Information (FoI) request.

The UK Covid Inquiry heard on Friday that Nicola Sturgeon's WhatsApp messages from throughout the pandemic have been deleted

He commented: WhatsApp deletion is a pre-bed ritual. This was in response to a message from Ken Thomson, a former Scottish Government director general for strategy and external affairs, which read: Just to remind you (seriously), this is discoverable under FoI. Know where the clear chat button is.

He later added: Plausible deniability are my middle names.

Last night, lawyer Aamer Anwar, who represents Scottish Covid Bereaved, said the group will now consider making complaints against anyone that was involved in the wholesale deletion of messages.

He added: We do know from the civil servants that at the start of the pandemic, at the height of the pandemic, WhatsApp became a route by which government ministers were talking to each other because of the lockdown.

The question that we will be asking is whether there is anyone out there who put in FoIs from January 2020 up until now, to any government minister on the topic of Covid, and whether or not they were told the information does not exist. Because if its the case that material was destroyed because an FoI came in, then that is an offence.

Mr Anwar will be collating a paper trail of FoI requests and assessing evidence sessions at the Covid Inquiry in deciding whether to report politicians and officials to the police.

Under the Inquiries Act 2005, it is a criminal offence if someone intentionally suppresses or conceals a document that is, and that he knows or believes to be, a relevant document, or intentionally alters or destroys any such document.

Former First Minister Ms Sturgeon is now facing calls to make a personal statement to Holyrood.

Her successor, Humza Yousaf, also faces accusations of misleading MSPs when he told them that officials and ministers had kept all communications for the UK Covid Inquiry.

Jason Leitch (left) said deleting his WhatsApp messages was a 'pre-bed ritual'. John Swinney (right) had the auto-delete function on his WhatsApp switched on

Ms Sturgeon claimed in August 2021 that she would supply all relevant material to the inquiry. But on Friday, Jamie Dawson, its lead counsel, said she had not kept a single WhatsApp message.

On Saturday Ms Sturgeon wrote on X, formerly Twitter: The inquiry does have messages between me and those I most regularly communicated with through informal means. Although these had not been retained on my own device, I was able to obtain copies which I submitted to the inquiry last year. She also denied being part of any WhatsApp groups.

But Mr Anwar said: Its quite clear that she had WhatsApp materials in October 2021, because she read them out on Sky News to Sophy Ridge in relation to her dialogue with Alex Salmond.

So it begs the question, at which point did she decide to delete her WhatsApp messages? Because by then we already know theres a public inquiry being announced.

Ms Sturgeon, who is expected to give evidence to the inquiry at the end of this month, is under pressure to explain herself to MSPs as Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton accused her of deceiving bereaved families.

He wrote in an open letter to Ms Sturgeon it was only right that she make a personal statement to the Scottish parliament and face questions from MSPs in public.

A Scottish Government spokesman said that in responding to the UK and Scottish Covid inquiries, legal advice is being taken and acted upon appropriately.
Within hours of Ron DeSantis suspending his campaign to be the Republican presidential candidate, social media users were quick to mock his disastrous performance.

DeSantis endorsed his bitter rival Donald Trump on Sunday afternoon after dropping out of the 2024 White House race, just days before the New Hampshire primary.

Memes quickly flooded social media taking aim at the Florida Governor's awkwardness, eccentricity and love of wearing boots.

Trump's beloved nickname for him - 'Meatball Ron' also got a mention as began trending on X, formerly Twitter.

Others focused on his fallout with the House of Mouse - when the Republican governor and GOP-dominated Florida Legislature took control of the district which Disney World is based.

The move was in retaliation after Disney publicly opposed a state law championed by DeSantis, banning classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades.

Ron DeSantis was the subject of various memes after announcing he was suspending his presidential campaign - some focusing on his fallout with Disney

DeSantis ' choice of footwear was also made fun of after he was accused of using 'lifts' in his boots to appear taller

A video from last May showing him roaring with laughter as the then-2024 hopeful began circulating on X - formerly Twitter

'Meatball Ron' - a nickname made popular by Trump during the campaign - was rolled out in various memes

One social media user made a tombstone signifying the length of DeSantis' campaign

RIP Ron DeSantis aka Meatball Rons 2024 Campaign Here's #Trump giving the eulogy at the Ron DeSanctimonious burial services  pic.twitter.com/NR51jBejDs  John Walsh (@itsJohnWalsh) January 21, 2024

One meme used a line from Evita but suggested the people of Florida's state capital, Tallahassee might be upset at DeSantis campaign suspension. Ron's wife Casey DeSantis is pictured here

Others focused on his fallout with the House of Mouse - when t he Republican governor and GOP-dominated Florida Legislature took control of the district which Disney World is based.

DeSantis' footwear was a re-occurring theme of many memes as Americans like taller candidates

DeSantis is seen in a clip from The Simpsons where he is in a line for 'rejects'

DeSantis has faced an uphill battle from the start when it comes to connecting with voters and has frequently been accused of being uptight and humorless.

Trump's nickname for him as 'Ron Desanctimonious' and 'Meatball Ron' also didn't help.

Both attempted to portray the Florida Governor as aloof and out of touch.

The 'meatball' term was an apparent dig at DeSantis's appearance - his pudgier frame, while hinting at a lock of social grace.

Using the word 'meatball' is also a slur against Italian-Americans with all eight of DeSantis' great-grandparents coming from Italy.

But during his campaign there have been flashes that showed a different side to him.

A video from last May saw him roaring with laughter has emerged, as the 2024 hopeful made an apparent effort to loosen up.

The video showed the governor engaged in a conversation with a man at a classic car show in Iowa. When DeSantis asks: 'I saw that you have like a 1955 Porsche in there. That one's nice. How much is that worth?'

'Ugh, we won't even talk about that,' the man responds. DeSantis was clearly tickled by the remark and flung his head back to give a hearty-open-mouthed guffaw.

DeSantis is seen pledging his loyalty to Trump in a digitally-altered image

Many poked fun at DeSantis' love of wearing cowboy boots - in this meme he is seen wearing women's knee high Gogo boots

The 'Meatball Ron' nickname appeared to have resonated with those who disliked DeSantis

One artist managed to portray DeSantis as a human meatball complete with boots

A meme showed DeSantis' white rain boots pocking out beneath a house, with Mickey Mouse looking on - a parody of Wizard of Oz

Another described how DeSantis had 'lost' to a mouse and rat, with pictures of Mickey Mouse and an inflatable of Trump

This image depicted a blood-thirsty Mickey Mouse as having defeated DeSantis in the race

A scene from Pretty Woman saw DeSantis taking on the lead role and having a bath

An image of DeSantis laughing with his mouth wide open during the same moment was also snapped by Wall Street Journal reporter John McCormick, who uploaded it to his Twitter account.

While many were quick to crack jokes, others pointed out that 'loosening up' was a targeted effort.

Adversaries have argued in the past that DeSantis has an issue with 'grip and grin' politics which sees lawmakers get out and about to try and charm voters in person.

Early in the campaign it was reported DeSantis and his team had 'internal conversations' regarding his need to engage in more small talk, handshaking and eye contact.

The Florida governor was been accused of inserting lifts into pairs of brown and black boots to turn them into heels, giving him a height boost - as Americans traditionally like taller candidates.

DeSantis claimed to be unaware that people online were theorizing that he was wearing heels, saying his boots were 'just standard, off the rack Lucchese' and that he stood at 5'11''.

But expert shoemakers came forward to say he was using lifts to make himself look taller.

One meme depicted DeSantis as a plastic toy, termed 'Useless Man' with a laughing Joe Biden looking on

The mocking of DeSantis' hatred of Disney saw the tables turned as the cartoon character reacted to him dropping out in this meme

Another Disney / DeSantis meme following the Florida Governor's ending of his campaign

Many used DeSantis' campaign collapse as a way for Disney to fight back via memes

DeSantis is seen next to Elon Musk who has suffered a number of space rocked malfunctions over the years on his Florida launchpad

One user compared DeSantis' campaign to that of the ill-fated Titan submarine that imploded

Pennsylvania Democrat John Fetterman tweeted gleefully using Mickey Mouse to deliver his message

Disney was a popular theme in the meme's with DeSantis portrayed as one of Snow White's dwarfs

A Trump cap-wearing snake referenced Florida's children's book ban in this tweet

DeSantis' boots featured prominently in this image of him walking back to his home in Florida

One makeshift image saw Trump dumping DeSantis as an alligator, out with the garbage

One meme turned a DeSantis slogan against him following his early campaign suspension

The Florida Governor's pro-life stance was mocked in this meme. DeSantis has said he would support a federal ban on abortion at 15 weeks of pregnancy

DeSantis was mocked at the start of his campaign for the shambolic Twitter room presidential announcement with Elon Musk that crashed five times

TikTok user Spamellina 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

DeSantis has pulled out ahead of the New Hampshire primary which would like have seenan abysmal performance according to the latest NBC News poll

It once again made for an easy target when it came to making memes teasing the former candidate.

Last week, even Trump took time to attack DeSantis' footwear as he predicted the imminent end of his run.

'His poll numbers have gone down to a level that he is going to be out of the race very soon. He's going to be out very soon. You know, I watched him last night, he is standing up with his shoes  his fancy shoes,' Trump said on January 11.

The reference to claims DeSantis wears concealed lifts in his boots got a laugh from the crowd.
Childcare centres have been accused of trying to make toddlers feel ashamed of their country by teaching them Australia was stolen from First Nations people.

More than 7,000 schools and daycare centres are registered with Reconciliation Australia as having a formal 'acknowledgement of country'.

Many childcare centres have been urged to commemorate January 26 as Invasion or Survival Day while others recite an Acknowledgement of Country daily.

Childcare centres and preschools are the latest to become embroiled in the divisive Australia Day debate leading up to the national public holiday this Friday.

The move has sparked outrage from NSW Libertarian Party MP John Ruddick who accused childcare centres of 'indoctrination'.

The divisive Australia Day debate has extended to childcare providers (stock image)

Aussie Childcare Network, which is a leading provider of childcare resources, has created a calendar of events.

January 26 is listed as 'Yabun, celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, Invasion Day, Survival Day, Australia Day'.

The network suggests that providers mark Australia Day by flying the Aboriginal flag at half-mast, observe a moment of silence, or include an Acknowledgement of Country in the morning

Celebrating on a different date altogether was also suggested.

SDN Children's Services Bluebell, in the ACT, teaches kindergarten kids about 'stolen land'.

'The preschool children are used to acknowledging Country, and know they gather on Ngunnawal land, the place of the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples,' the ACT-based centre states on its website.

'The foundation for this learning begins when the children enter the centre as infants.

'Now older, preschoolers participate in enquiry-based learning  the daily ritual of acknowledging Country is built upon with explicit teaching about stolen land.'

The learning about First Nations extends to other activities such as story-time, singing and group discussions.

'We think about how we can do something to be respectful and actually influence improved outcomes,' the centre director states.

'We don't want to just teach about the injustices that have and do happen, but do something that contributes to countering it. So we teach and model respect.'

Children under the age of five are already learning the meanings of 'Invasion Day'. Pictured is a young participant at a previous Invasion Day rally

Childcare centres have been urged to not caught up in 'culture wars' about Australia Day (stock image)

The divisive debate surrounding Australia Day has prompted some centres to not celebrate the day while others will do 'green and gold' themed days.

Early Childhood Australia encourages providers to build relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to bring about positive change to communities.

However, the peak early childhood advocacy organisation has 'stopped short of providing too much direction' to providers to ensure educators are mindful of the different connotations January 26 has for Indigenous families.

'It's the date that's controversial,' Early Childhood Australia chief executive Samantha Page told The Australian.

NSW Libertarian Party MP John Ruddick said that children were being 'indoctrinated to feel ashamed of their country'.

'Every nation has a national day to reflect on what's good about their homeland,' he said.

'Seems to be only in Australia we have this ever-escalating culture war and now we're doing all we can to indoctrinate infants to be ashamed of their country.'

Childcare providers have been accused of making children ashamed be ashamed of their country by teaching them Australia was stolen from First Nations people (stock image)

Prominent opponent to the Indigenous Voice to Parliament Warren Mundine agreed that childcare centres should not be caught up in 'culture wars'.

'Don't they realise the largest group of Australians want to celebrate Australia,' he said.

It comes after Indigenous Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price blasted 'corporates' for shaming Aussies who celebrate Australia Day.

'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 told Sky News on Sunday.

'I mean this is home. They're sick of being shamed to be proud Australians.'

Warren Mundine added: 'The reality is we've got so much to celebrate about this nation'.
Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said Sunday 'may the best woman win' as she reacted to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis quitting the presidential race.

The news came as Haley was addressing potential supporters at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire with the state's Gov. Chris Sununu at her side.

Haley is campaigning in the Granite State after banning DailyMail.com reporters and photographers from all her events over reporting on alleged affairs.

The former U.N. ambassador received cheers when she announced that DeSantis had called it quits Sunday afternoon - endorsing former President Donald Trump in a video message on his way out.

'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, he's been a good governor and we wish him well,' Haley said. 'Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.'

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley (left), with New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (right), informs attendees at a campaign event at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has quit the presidential race

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his decision to exit the race - and endorse former President Donald Trump - in a video message posted to X Sunday afternoon. In it, he called Haley 'a repackaged form of warmed over corporatism'

In turn, DeSantis kicked Haley as he walked out the door.

He said Trump had his 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.'

Haley told CNN's Dana Bash that DeSantis didn't give her a heads up that he was leaving the race.

'No, he didn't call or inform me. And, look, this is what the fellows do,' she said, adding that she 'doesn't take politics personally.'

DeSantis' exit turns the Republican primary race into a tussle between frontrunner Trump and underdog Haley.

New Hampshire - which allows unaffiliated voters to cast ballots in its Tuesday first-in-the-nation primary - seemed to be the most fertile ground for Haley to upend the race.

But the latest polls still show the former South Carolina governor with a double-digit deficit to the former commander-in-chief.

The Emerson College poll released Sunday showed Trump with the support of 50 percent of New Hampshire voters and Haley at 35 percent.

DeSantis, who focused mostly on winning the Iowa caucuses, stood at 8 percent.

CNN's poll, also released Sunday, showed the race a tad bit tighter with Trump at 50 percent and Haley at 39 percent.

DeSantis stood at just 6 percent.

Prior to dropping out, the Florida governor spent Saturday in South Carolina, attempting to peel voters away from Haley in her home state.

While DeSantis filled venues, not every attendee was sold on his bid, according to South Carolinians DailyMail.com interviewed.

Larry Holbert, a 67-year-old Myrtle Beach resident, said he wished Trump would pick DeSantis as his vice presidential candidate.

'I don't know if he would do that and I don't think he would,' Holbert said. 'That would be awesome. I don't know if he would, but that would be great.'

Phil Cortolano, a 72-year-old Myrtle Beach retiree, said he hoped Trump and DeSantis 'could just get together.'

'We could have 12 years of greatness,' Cortolano said.

After Tuesday's New Hampshire primary the presidential race heads to Nevada - though as the state tries to transition from a caucus to a primary, Trump and Haley won't appear on the same ballots there.

Haley decided that she would compete in Nevada's primary, which is run by the state, whereas Trump will participate in the GOP caucus, which is being run by the party, and how delegates will be rewarded.

With DeSantis out of the race, Trump will have a clear lane to pick up all of Nevada's delegates.

After that comes the South Carolina primary on February 24, where Haley - despite having served as governor of the states - trails Trump too.

She indicated Sunday that she plans to compete against Trump beyond New Hampshire, announcing a rally in North Charleston on Wednesday, a day after the New Hampshire primary.

'Absolutely,' Haley also told CNN about staying in the race through the Palmetto State primary. 'And South Carolinians know, I won that state twice. They know I'm a fighter. They know I'm going to go all of the way through.'

'I'm also an accountant,' Haley continued - a line she often deploys on the campaign trail. 'So we saved a lot of our dollars to make sure we could be strong in South Carolina.'

'We're going to be stronger in New Hampshire than we were in Iowa. We're going to be even stronger in South Carolina than we were in New Hampshire. And we're keep on going until we're the last woman standing,' she said.
Transgender students at boarding schools are being allowed to stay in dormitories that align with their preferred gender, it is claimed.

Fee-paying schools, some of which charge up to 45,000-a-year to allow students to stay overnight with them, have been telling trans pupils they might be able to stay in rooms that match their gender identity, the Telegraph reports.

It claims that policies by schools, including Taunton School in Somerset and Bedales in Hampshire, mean that a trans girl who was born male, could be allowed to sleep in a female dormitory and vice versa.

However, this clashes with government guidance that says trans children must sleep in dorms that match their biological sex.

The discovery has sparked concern among some Tory MPs, including Education Secretary Gillian Keegan who published the draft guidance last month.

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan published draft guidance on trans pupils last month. Pictured: Ms Keegan at the Conservative Party annual conference in Manchester in October

Taunton School (pictured) has a policy that allows trans students to 'sleep in dorms appropriate to their gender identity'

Among the schools with these policies is Taunton School, in Somerset, which charges parents up to 14,970 a term for students to full board there.

READ MORE HERE: Teacher who was banned from teaching for 'misgendering' female pupil who identified as a boy will use the Government's new transgender guidance for schools appeal decision Advertisement

Its equality, diversity and inclusion policy claims 'as far as possible, transgender pupils and students should be able to sleep in dorms appropriate to their gender identity'. The Telegraph reports this policy is currently under review.

Bedales, in Hampshire, which charges up to 14,185 a term for full boarding students, also has a policy that appears to clash with government guidance.

A policy on its website says students who are boarding at the school should be allowed to stay in dormitories 'according to the gender with which they identify'.

Another fee-paying school, Christ's Hospital in West Sussex, has a policy of giving 'careful consideration' to requests from trans pupils to be housed in dormitories 'different to their biological gender'.

However, a spokesperson for the school told the Telegraph: 'Christ's Hospital is respectful of students who may be questioning their gender, and balance this with our duty of care and safeguarding responsibilities.

'No student who is questioning their gender is allowed to share sleeping or changing facilities with others of the opposite biological sex to them.

'While, like all schools, we will be reviewing our policies following the recent publication of the Government's draft guidance, nothing we do currently is outside that guidance.'

Bedales School (pictured) has a policy that says trans students should be allowed to stay in dormitories 'according to the gender with which they identify'

The policies have sparked concern among top Tories as they appear to clash with government guidance which states 'no child should be allowed to share a room with a child of the opposite sex'.

The draft guidance also says trans students who don't wish to stay in a room with members of the same biological sex should only be allowed to do so after the school has taken its safeguarding obligations into account.

A source close to Ms Keegan telling the Telegraph: 'Ministers have been clear that single-sex spaces must be protected and this has been reflected in the Government's draft guidance on gender-questioning pupils, which is currently out for consultation.'

Miriam Cates, Conservative MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, told the paper that parents who 'spend an awful lot of money' sending their children to these schools would 'probably be horrified at some of the gender ideology in these schools'.

MailOnline has contacted Taunton and Bedale schools for comment.
From a superficial glance, the tinkhundla system of governance has good intentions. According to the Constitution and its fierce proponents, it endeavors to ensure that services devolve from central government to the people at grassroots level. It is supposed to dispense with the adversarialness which is the salient hallmark of modern politics.

Under this system of governance, there are no political parties and no notion of an opposition. Men and women, educated and uneducated are voted into the Legislature and are supposed to represent emaSwati from all corners of the country which is organised, for purposes of elections and development, into 59 constituencies, otherwise known as tinkhundla. These individuals each come with diverse views and service delivery aspirations that are informed by the needs of the electorate. Some of them are appointed to form Cabinet.

The rest of the seats in both houses are then filled by the appointing authority. That pretty much is how the two arms of government; the Legislature and the Executive are put together. These arms are supposed to be working in tandem, each with its distinct roles, for the betterment of the populace. They are supposed to play oversight roles, each to the other. The appointing authority has a very prominent role in setting the agenda and approving what goes and what doesnt. That is the marriage between the monarch and the ballot, if I were to oversimplify our unique system of governance whose proponents insist the world is in awe of and that countries are studying it closely with intentions of adopting same. The veracity of these claims remains unconfirmed unless Im just suffering from ignorance in that area or blinded by my progressive lenses.

That being said, tinkhundla is not that simple to understand. Not to its custodians, architects, subjects and the international community. Long has government made this realisation and in curing this, many officials have suggested that it be taught in schools. They have argued strongly that this would be the perfect solution to the never-ending calls for reforms that would see the country embracing multiparty pluralism. But does that really solve the problem? I think not. Any system of governance is worth its salt only when it upholds human rights and delivers services citizens expect of any functioning government.

Finance

Fundamentally, all people want to know that their taxes and their countrys resources can finance quality education, good road infrastructure, healthcare and support an economy that provides jobs and an environment where business can thrive. Additionally, people want to have a voice on how their country is governed and have certainty that structures such as courts and law enforcement are functional, operate on the basis of a clear set of rules and are reasonably predictable.

The first set of expectations are arguably the most prominent because they speak to human needs. If a government or system of governance falls short on that score, then it loses creditability and legitimacy. Therell always be attacks on it and people will reject and even revolt against it. Sadly, it is on that very score that our home-brewed tinkhundla system fails, and spectacularly so. And no amount of educating our children about it can save it. So many years after it was conceptualised, decentralisation, which is supposed to be the one selling point for tinkhundla, is still happening at a snails pace, to say the least. At a huge cost, people still have to travel from far-flung areas to towns for some services which should by now be available at the centres. EmaSwati have often been told that it is at these centres where people should be allowed to converge to speak free and openly about socio-political issues that affect them. That is still not the case.

Deliver

These centres are still very much systematically controlled and people know what not to say there. In the build-up to the unrest, people tried using them to deliver petitions to their elected members of Parliament but soon this was viewed as anti-tinkhundla and we know what transpired thereafter. Our once celebrated education system has been so run down to the extent that it now remains fodder for the majority of emaSwati to whom the private school alternative is a luxury they can ill-afford. The least said about the health system, the better. As we speak, the government cannot even print travel documents for its citizens in Mbabane. I could go on and on, chronicling the failures of this system, emaSwati know what I am talking about. This system sets itself up for failure, in my humble view, owing to the lack of competitiveness in its design as well the centrality of power. Even after the ushering of this new government, which optimists think is capable, there are too many factory faults that predispose it to failure.


A man has been charged with murdering his Google Engineer wife after he was found 'staring blankly' into space with her dead body nearby.

Police arrested Liren Chen, 27, who also works for Google, on January 16 at a home on Valley Way, Santa Clara.

He has been charged with murder but his arraignment was postponed after he was hospitalized.

Chen was found 'spattered with blood' with an 'extremely swollen and purple arm' kneeling outside a bedroom where his wife was 'deceased on the floor'.

His wife, thought to be Xuanyi Yu, had 'severe blunt force injuries to her head', according to Santa Clara District Attorney.

Liren Chen, 27, has been accused of murdering his wife at their home in Santa Clara

His wife, Xuanyi Yu, worked at Google as a software engineer, she was found dead with blunt force trauma to her head

Santa Clara police officers went to the house around 11am on January 16, after receiving a welfare call.

When they arrived, a friend of Chen told officers he was 'concerned' about the couple and said Chen was 'refusing to answer his phone or his door'.

He told officers he could see Chen inside the home where he was 'motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly'.

The officers went into the house and arrested Chen.

The district attorney's office said they found his wife's body 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,' they said.

'Chens right hand was extremely swollen and purple. He had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands and scratches on his arm.'

Chen and Yu bought a home at 714 Valley Way in April last year for $2.05 million, according to property records.

District Attorney Jeff Rosen said 911 calls for domestic violence have risen.

He added: 'Domestic violence deaths have been falling in our county but that does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence.

The couple bought a $2 million home in Santa Clara last April according to property records

The couple both worked for Google as software engineers in California

'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.'

Google spokesperson Bailey Tomson told The New York Post in a statement: 'We are shocked and deeply saddened by what has happened to Xuanyi.

'Our thoughts are with her family at this time, and we will work to provide support to them and to co-workers who are processing this tragic news.'

According to his Linkedin, Chen worked on the YouTube shorts algorithm for Google, while Yu's page says she was a software engineer.

Both of them studied in China at Tsinghua University and at the University of California San Diego.
The former fire chief in a town on ritzy Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts has been arrested for allegedly filming a sexual encounter with a partner who wasn't aware they were on camera.

John Rose, 53, had previously resigned in disgrace from Oak Bluffs Fire Department after being outed for sexual harassment in 2020.

The firefighter recently landed a new job in nearby West Tisbury but received an indefinite suspension after a harassment protection order was filed against him.

Rose is now being held without bail after being charged with allegedly 'photographing, videotaping, or electronically surveilling a partially nude or nude persons', according to the district attorney's office.

Police were tipped off to the allegation on December 14 and began an investigation that roped in state police.

John Rose, 53, the former fire chief in a town on ritzy Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts has been arrested for allegedly filming his sexual encounter with a partner who wasn't aware they were on camera

Rose, 53, had previously resigned in disgrace from Oak Bluffs Fire Department after being outed for sexual harassment in 2020

He was arrested at Logan Airport in Boston at the weekend. Authorities did not state whether he was attempting to flee.

The harassment prevention order against Rose was sought on December 4 by a male co-worker.

Officials have not said if the prevention order and Rose's arrest are connected.

Rose has a long history of alleged corruption in the workplace.

When he worked in Oak Bluffs, he was forced to settle with a former fire department administrator for $97,500 over harassment and discrimination claims.

Cynthia Hatt worked for the department from 2013 to 2019 when she filed a grievance with the state in April of that year against Rose, before filing a lawsuit in July.

Hatt admitted to a year-long, consensual relationship with Rose starting in 2015 after he had made sexual advances at her in the workplace.

After they broke up, Rose started dating a volunteer firefighter but continued to send Hatt 'unceasing, harassing text messages and phone calls' to try and get her back.

Rose faced an allegation of sexual harassment, a lawsuit and a state ethics investigation while running the Oak Bluffs Fire Department

She rejected those advances and alleges he retaliated against her at work for doing so.

Hatt claimed Rose moved her desk inside his office, stopped comp time payments, revoked job duties from her and singled out her new firefighter beau for punishment, even stalking her outside the firehouse using fire department vehicles.

She said that Rose 'assigned himself a locker' in the women's locker room at the firehouse and used it to shower and dress twice a day.

The case was eventually dismissed and the settlement was reached without Rose or the town of Oak Bluffs admitting to any wrongdoing. Hatt dismissed all claims.

She was awarded $97,500 in the settlement, more than the $25,000 she asked for in lost overtime pay.

The settlement claims the extra money is for damages that 'do not involve wage-related wrongdoing on the part of the town.'

A month after he resigned, it was revealed he'd received $100,000 in a retirement package that includes a $65,000 lump-sum payout, three months of paid leave, and 18 months of town health benefits.

The fire department, under Rose's watch, even came under an FBI investigation for it's billing practices.

When he worked in Oak Bluffs, Rose was forced to settle with a former fire department administrator for $97,500 over harassment and discrimination claims

Rose was offered a second chance as a firefighter in West Tisbury until the harassment protection order was filed. He did not challenge his suspension.

He was sued in 2022 by a firefighter who attempted to blow the whistle on Rose's alleged harassment, the The MV Times reported.

While still in charge in 2014, a state ethics commission investigated Rose for hiring members of his immediate family at the fire department, according to NBC10.

They later agreed with Rose not to pursue a formal proceeding.

An attorney for Rose, Mark Miliotis, told the Vineyard Gazette the charges were new to him and did not comment.

Rose is currently sitting in a state prison in Bourne. He's due in court again on Monday.
The body of a father-of-four who was swept out to sea while saving his children from a rip has been found following a four day search.

Dan Cojocea has been missing since Friday afternoon after swimming into a rip at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach, southwest of Port Lincoln, in South Australia.

He willingly got himself caught in the current to save his two sons and the daughter of his best mate, Riaan Grobler, who believed she was 'going to die'.

Mr Cojocea's wife of 18-years was seen returning to the beach on Sunday morning for the first time since his disappearance.

Search parties entered their fourth day of looking for the devoted father on Monday before confirming a body had been found.

The best mate of father-of-four, Dan Cojocea (right) who disappeared into the surf saving three children, Riaan Grobler (left) has described him as a 'hero' and a 'gem'

Mr Cojocea had been on a family holiday and visited the beach with his friend and their six children.

The families began to suspect something was wrong when the children appeared to be dragged further out to sea.

Mr Grobler said the children were in the rip for about 10 minutes before Mr Cojocea bravely dove into the water.

'He went in there without thinking and saved my daughter's life... He's a national hero. He is my hero without a doubt,' he told The Advertiser.

Mr Grobler had run to the top of a nearby sand dune to get reception and called triple-zero for help when his mate vanished.

'I have not seen him since,' Mr Grobler said.

In a Facebook post made on Sunday, Mr Grobler said his 'heart is shattered'.

'You are a hero. My hero. You saved the kids, but couldn't save yourself,' he wrote.

Mr Cojocea bravely entered a rip at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach, southwest of Port Lincoln, (pictured) to save his two sons and Mr Grobler's daughter

His wife of 18-years, Aline (pictured), returned to the beach for the first time on Sunday morning as search parties continue to search for her husband

He described the father-of-four as the 'most beautiful husband and father' who always had a smile on his face and was an 'absolute gem'.

The incident unfolded with Mr Cojocea's wife of 18-years, Alina, and two teenage daughters watching on from the shoreline.

The three children were released from hospital on Saturday after being treated for hypothermia and minor injuries.

Many of his 13 siblings have travelled from across the country to support his devastated family.

Search parties continue to focus on the shoreline and not the water in an effort to find the missing father.
This is the moment nervous passengers erupted into applause after their diverted plane made a shaky landing during powerful winds in Storm Isha.

A British Airways flight on its way from Ibiza to London City Airport was among the scores of passenger aircraft which were forced to divert as winds of up to 90mph hit the UK.

A holidaymaker shared a video on X showing the bumpy ride as the plane came into land at Gatwick, before the cabin erupted into applause and cheers for the captain, with one grateful passenger heard shouting 'Go on geezer!'

There was also applause for the captain of an Alicante to Edinburgh flight, who managed to land their Jet2 plane despite dramatic crosswinds.

Travel chaos also hit Scotland amid 'tornado watch' warnings and amber weather alerts, with luggage filmed being blown across the runway at Edinburgh Airport.

A holidaymaker shared a video on X showing the bumpy ride as the plane came into land, before the cabin erupted into applause and cheers for the captain

Meanwhile, passengers were left stranded 500 miles away from their intended destination after their Manchester to Dublin flight was forced to divert to Paris as the storm rolled in on Sunday.

The flight, which was initially due to land at Dublin International Airport at around 3.30pm, was already delayed by an hour when leaving Manchester Airport on Sunday afternoon.

However, due to 'dangerous' winds, the plane was forced to circle over the Irish Sea multiple times before aborting its landing and instead flying to Paris Beauvais-Tille Airport, landing shortly before 5.30pm.

Dublin International Airport had already issued a public warning about possible flight cancellations, delays and a stream of aborted landings, with numerous other flights diverting to Manchester and other airports across the country.

Two hours later, at 7.30pm, one passenger on board the Ryanair flight said those on board were still stuck on the runway in Paris.

Journalist Nicola Bardon, who was among those on board, said that the situation was a 'nightmare' and that that passengers remained sat on the plane for hours after landing, but that spirits remained high.

'We were already delayed leaving Manchester,' she said. 'We got to Dublin and were over the runway, and then the next thing, we were back in the sky.

'We attempted [to land] again and then the pilot made an announcement that Dublin was too windy and that Manchester was full, so we were going to the East Midlands.

A passenger on a plane at Edinburgh Airport shared footage of some luggage rolling across the tarmac

'About 20 minutes later, we were updated to say the UK airports were not an option and that they had made the decision to go to Paris Beauvais.

'There was a big laugh from the passengers when the pilot informed us of Paris initially.

'One person yelled "Welcome to Pari, would prefer to be in Kerry". We have now been on the runway for over two hours with no information since just after we landed.

'It's a nightmare. Phones are dead, they have run out of food and drinks and we are facing another 90 minutes on the runway and there is still chance of another diversion.

An aircraft arriving in Leeds from Dublin is blown sideways when landing at the airport today

Crowds gather in Dublin airport after flights were canceled due to Storm Isha, which saw flights diverted away from Ireland

'It's nearly 9pm in France and everyone has been on good form for most of the drama, but we are tired now.'

A number of other flights were forced to divert to other airports due to Storm Isha winds on Sunday, with a haul of other flights cancelled from UK airports, including Manchester.

A number of weather warnings, including two amber wind alerts, were put in place by the Met Office across the country for Sunday, when the storm first swooped in. Rail, sea and air travellers were told to brace for severe disruption, with closures, cancellations and delays expected across a number of services.

Meanwhile a flight travelling from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow Airport had to declare an emergency due to Storm Isha.

A spokesperson for Glasgow Airport said the TUI flight was 'diverted to Manchester due to current weather conditions'.

They added: 'This is happening across many UK airports due to Storm Isha.'

National Air Traffic Services (Nats) said: 'Due to adverse weather conditions across the UK, temporary air traffic restrictions are in place. Restrictions of this sort are only every applied to maintain safety.

'Our teams are working closely with airports and airlines to minimise disruption. Passengers should check the status of their flight with their airline.'

British Airways said: 'Like other airlines, we have had to make schedule adjustments due to the adverse weather conditions across the UK and Europe caused by Storm Isha.

'We've apologised to our customers for the disruption to their travel plans and our teams are working hard to get them on their way as quickly as possible.'
With Ron DeSantis' shock announcement he is dropping out of the White House race, the question now is who his supporters will back.

Will they flock to Donald Trump and give the frontrunner even greater momentum, or will they decide to throw their weight behind Nikki Haley?

The New Hampshire primary is less than 48 hours away and Haley is hoping for a longshot victory to close the gap with Trump in what is now a two-horse race.

She is behind Trump in the polls by double digits and facing an uphill battle to win the state she has focused on after finishing third in Iowa.

While it's not clear how the Florida Governor's bombshell decision to end his campaign will play out at the ballot box, analysts and polls have suggested it will benefit Trump.

With Ron DeSantis ' shock announcement he is dropping out of the White House race , the question now is who his supporters will back

DeSantis' supporters in the state were shocked at the timing of the announcement and some admitted they don't know how they will vote on Tuesday.

But many are resigned to the fact it will be Trump against Biden, again, in 2024.

Republican strategist Scott Jennings told DailyMail.com: 'Trump benefits but he was already cruising to the nomination.

'Trump is dominant. He's run a textbook operation to dispatch his opponents.

'New Hampshire is the most fertile ground Haley would ever find and Trump's leading her by a decent margin.

'It doesn't get easier from there. In fact, it gets significantly harder.'

A CNN/University of New Hampshire survey released hours before the DeSantis news showed his supporters were more likely to back the former president over Haley.

The poll found 62 percent of likely New Hampshire voters who had DeSantis as their first choice would pick Trump second, while just 32 percent had Haley as their alternative.

The poll had Trump leading Haley by 11 points in the Granite State with two days until until the polls open. DeSantis was polling at just six percent before he bowed out.

DeSantis supporter Dan Arlen told DailyMail.com he wasn't sure who he would now support after his candidate dropped out. But he is resigned to the prospect of a Trump-Biden rematch in 2024

A New Hampshire resident driving outside a cancelled DeSantis event on Sunday holds up a sign saying Trump belongs in 'prison' or an 'insane asylum'

Even if all of his supporters defected to Haley, her aim to take down the frontrunner would still be a tough ask.

A YouGov/The Economist poll conducted at the end of December and in January found similar results.

Of DeSantis supporters, 42 percent said Trump was their second choice while 34 percent chose Haley.

In a Suffolk/USA Today poll also in December, a staggering 67 percent of DeSantis said Trump was their backup while just 18 percent said they would vote for Haley.

The New Hampshire primary is open, so voters of any party affiliation can take part.

Haley is banking on independents and Democrats to come out and support her if she is to stand a chance of taking first place.

DailyMail.com also spoke to DeSantis supporters at the Farm Bar and Grille in Manchester, New Hampshire, who were expecting to attend his campaign event on Sunday night.

It was cancelled, leaving some of his campaign staff to raise a toast to the end of their operation inside.

Restaurant staff told members of the media that since the event was off, the press had to wait outside.

So the voters who showed up to watch their favorite candidate were left to ponder where it all went wrong.

Richard Paddack of Gilford told DailyMail.com he learned of DeSantis dropping out while he was driving to the event with his eight-year-old daughter Elodie.

'I could understand the playing field going forward - to see the primary states at the end of the day - he had to make the right decision for his family,' Paddack said.

'It was down to South Carolina, he poured so much into South Carolina. I thought he would only stay through the other side of it, though.'

He said he would still vote for DeSantis in Tuesday's primary.

'Here in New Hampshire, we're not gonna back down from that support. We got to figure it out. I mean, Governor Haley, her behavior this campaign has been extremely poor.'

Paddack insisted he wouldn't back Trump.

'There's no way that I could stand behind somebody with that character and then just watching the way the Republican Party has continued to cave - just showing no conviction, Paddack said.

While it's not clear how the Florida Governor's bombshell decision to end his campaign will play out at the ballot box, analysts and polls have suggested it will benefit Trump

'No honor. This is one of the reasons we love DeSantis so much is he was willing to stand in our fight.'

When asked who he would vote for if the general election was between Trump and Biden, Paddack said: 'If you're hearing this Joe (Manchin), I hope you consider a third party (run).'

Dan Arlen was standing outside the restaurant and said he learned the news from social media.

'It was interesting, just the timing of it all. I do think that Trump's going to be the nominee come November.

Arlen said he wasn't sure who he will vote for in the primary on Tuesday, and has resigned himself to the prospect of a Trump-Biden rematch.

If that is the reality, he said he would 'probably' vote for Trump.

The New Hampshire primary is less than 48 hours away and Haley is hoping for a longshot victory to close the gap with Trump in what is now a two-horse race

New Hampshire State Rep. Emily Phillips said she was shocked by the DeSantis decision when she found out on X.

'I'm disappointed. I'm a little bit in shock. I'm wondering on the timing. Why it couldn't wait till after Tuesday.

'There's a lot of work that's gone in. A lot of our state reps have put a lot of time into his campaign. So I don't know I don't know the political game or why the timing is what it is, but it's a little bit shocking.'

Even though DeSantis has endorsed Trump, she admits she is 'conflicted' and still doesn't know who to vote for on Tuesday.

DeSantis doesn't think his supporters would ever turn to Haley as their hope to win back the White House.

Last month he told Real Clear Politics: 'Most of the people supporting me, if they had to choose between Trump and Haley, they would choose Trump because they may have misgivings about Trump's electability or other things, but Haley on policy is just a no go for them.'
Donald Trump came out roaring in New Hampshire on Sunday night as he congratulated former GOP hopeful Ron DeSantis after he dropped out of the running.

The former president graciously thanked the Florida Gov. for endorsing him after ceremoniously quitting the Republican candidate race - while he took aim at his closest competition, Nikki Haley, days before the primary.

He said that the people supporting Haley are 'pro-Amnesty, pro-China, pro-Open Borders, pro-war, pro-Deep State and they're pro-Biden.'

And he called her a RINO - short for Republican in name only.

Trump, 77, called her out for previously arguing against his border policies, and told the cheering New Hampshire crowds: 'She will never secure the border.'

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump taking the stage during a campaign stop in Rochester, New Hampshire

The former president graciously thanked the Florida Gov. for endorsing him after ceremoniously quitting the Republican candidate race - while he took aim at his closest competition, Nikki Haley , days before the primary

As he took to the stage in Rochester, Donald Trump told supporters tonight: 'I want to congratulate Ron on doing a very great job.'

Trump commended 'terrific' Ron DeSantis for his efforts in his campaign - as well as giving the Florida Governor's wife Casey a shoutout for her hard work.

The former president told New Hampshire: 'He ran a great campaign, I will tell you.

'He left the campaign trail today and he was very gracious and he endorsed me, so I appreciate it.

'I look forward to working with Ron to defeat crooked Joe Biden.'

Trump spoke about his current indictments with jest - as MAGA crowds cheered him on. He joked: 'I got indicted more than Alphonse Capone.'

He also vowed to crack down on the fentanyl crisis in the US, as well as shutting down DEI systems across the country and stopping men playing in women's sports.

Trump said: 'We're never going back to the days of globalist RINOs who promise border security.

'Nikki Haley, globalist, will never secure the border or stop the fentanyl that is killing thousands of New Hampshire citizens.

'The Radical Left Democrats are supporting Nikki for a very simple reasonbecause they know she's easy to beat. She's unelectable.

'If you want a losing candidate who puts America last, vote for Nikki Haley.'

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley (left), with New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (right), informs attendees at a campaign event at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has quit the presidential race

As he took to the stage in Rochester, Donald Trump told crowds tonight: 'I want to congratulate Ron on doing a very great job'

Upon hearing the news that DeSantis had quit the presidential race, Nikki Haley said Sunday 'may the best woman win.'

The news came as Haley was addressing potential supporters at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire with the state's Gov. Chris Sununu at her side.

Haley is campaigning in the Granite State after banning DailyMail.com reporters and photographers from all her events over reporting on alleged affairs.

The former U.N. ambassador received cheers when she announced that DeSantis had called it quits Sunday afternoon - endorsing former President Donald Trump in a video message on his way out.

'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, he's been a good governor and we wish him well,' Haley said. 'Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.'

In turn, DeSantis kicked Haley as he walked out the door.

He said Trump had his 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.'

Haley told CNN's Dana Bash that DeSantis didn't give her a heads up that he was leaving the race.

'No, he didn't call or inform me. And, look, this is what the fellows do,' she said, adding that she 'doesn't take politics personally.'

DeSantis' exit turns the Republican primary race into a tussle between frontrunner Trump and underdog Haley.
Axed ABC radio host Antoinette Lattouf has been accused of 'moral yoga' after video resurfaced of her backing Wallabies star Israel Folau's suspension for breaching social media rules with his infamous homophobic rant.

Lattouf was dumped on December 20 after just three days as a week-long fill-in host on ABC Radio Sydney's morning show over her social media posts on the war in Gaza.

The national broadcaster says she had been warned about the ABC's social media rules but she breached those guidelines, prompting her removal from the airwaves.

One month earlier, mere days before she was hired by the broadcaster, Lattouf uploaded a three-minute video to Instagram boasting that 'nobody can fire me'.

In the November 24 video the outspoken journalist claimed that 'as a independent and freelance journalist' she was free to speak her mind on any issue she wanted.

'I have thought about future job prospects, so if somebody doesn't want to work with me because I care about dozens of journalists who have been slaughtered by doing their work, because I care about the 1000s and 1000s of children who have been killed and civilians harmed  then honestly f..k them,' she said.

'I will certainly be using my voice and sharing my concerns.'

Axed ABC radio host Antoinette Lattouf (pictured) uploaded a video to Instagram bragging that 'nobody can fire me' days before she was hired by the ABC

Since her sacking, hundreds of ABC staff from the Media, Entertainment, Arts & Alliance passed a vote of no confidence in managing director David Anderson on Monday.

The move came after just as many journalists signed an unprecedented open letter calling for newsrooms to treat unverified information from the Israeli government with the same 'professional scepticism' as they would the terror group Hamas.

Justin Stevens, ABC's director of news, told staff in November that signing the letter could impact an employee's impartiality.

'You should not sign any petition that may bring into question your impartiality or that of the ABC's coverage,' he said.

Despite this Lattouf still appeared as a co-signatory and the ABC continued to employee her, although it is unknown if anyone vetted her social media presence.

Lattouf is now suing the corporation for illegally sacking her over her political opinions and also because of her race and Middle East 'cultural background'.

On Monday though, it was revealed the ABC now denies sacking her in a bid to end the legal action in a revised submission to the Fair Work Commission.

In the clip from the ABC's Q&A show in June 2021, Lattouf insisted Rugby Australia was right to dump Israel Folau for breaching the governing body's social media rules.

The clip has resurfaced after an old social media post made in 2023 also came to light where Lattouf appeared to make a joke that involved 'Asian mums'.

Lattouf has been accused of 'moral yoga' after backing Wallabies star Israel Folau's suspension for breaching social media rules

Antoinette Lattouf said on the show that she recognised Israel Folau (pictured with his wife, Maria) was not sacked for posting that homosexuals would burn in hell, but because he ignored RA's social media policy

Lattouf acknowledged during the Q+A appearance that Folau was not sacked for his post's content, which said homosexuals would burn in hell, but because he ignored RA's social media policy.

And she said Rugby Australia were right to take action - even though the ABC in its defence appears to have taken an identical line with her.

'If we talk about why Israel Folau was stood down, it was because he breached social media protocols and he was asked not to post those sorts of things,' she told host Hamish McDonald.

'It wasn't about what he said - it was about his professional conduct and what was expected of him.

'I personally believe that he should have been stood down. I don't believe he should spread such hate....it obviously hurt and harmed people.'

The apparent double standards have been attacked by political advisor Parnell Palme McGuinness who accused her of 'moral yoga'.

'Almost everyone will reveal the moral yoga they are willing to perform with their core principles,' she said in a column for the Sydney Morning Herald.

'I've had a good chuckle out of a new cause championed by commentator Antoinette Lattouf.

'She had some quite different opinions regarding another famous social media-inspired sacking.

'When Israel Folau was dismissed by Rugby Australia in 2019 for posting that, unless they 'repent', hell awaits 'Drunks, Homosexuals, Adulterers, Liars, Fornicators, Thieves, Atheists, Idolaters', Lattouf was all for it.

'She defended the dismissal... and she made sure to let us know she agreed with the decision too.

'Lattouf brought the free-speech-has-consequences crowd along on her conversion journey when she tweeted opinions they agreed with and then got fired by the ABC for doing it.'

The footage has resurfaced as a controversial social media post by Lattouf - who co-founded Media Diversity Australia - about 'Asian mums' was also unearthed.

The footage has resurfaced as a social media post by Lattouf - who co-founded Media Diversity Australia - was also unearthed which mocked 'Asian mums'

Lattouf was sacked on December 20 after just three days as a week-long fill-in host on ABC Radio Sydney 's morning show over her comments on the war in Gaza

In a post about the Oscars last year, Lattouf appears to have made a joke about the 'Tiger mum' trope of Asian parents pushing their children to over-achieve, sparking a bitter backlash.

'As Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan's Academy Awards win is being celebrated by Asians around the globe, just as many Asian mums' reactions' be like: 'Just one award each? Why not 3? Next year get three. Don't be lazy,' she posted.

The comment was first posted on X, and reposted on Instagram with hashtags including #brownmum but the post divided her followers.

'Unfortunately, the trope of the 'tiger parent', who constantly diminishes the achievements of their children, is incredibly damaging to the Asian community and the East Asian community in particular,' said one.

Another replied: 'Are you speaking from experience, or just trying to poke fun at Asian stereotypes to get some engagement on social media? Not cool.'

Lattouf defended the post as simply a gag and said her Lebanese heritage meant she was also Asian.

'It's definitely a joke; a light moment,' she insisted. 'I use the term Asian broadly and my patently [sic] hail from the continent of Asia. My mother would say this to me!'

But the follower, who posts as @kevincheng, replied: 'I'm well aware you're trying to make a 'light moment' of this historic occasion.

'While immigrant experiences often intersect (your mother in this case), it's an off move to use the 'term Asian broadly' and perpetuate these stereotypes.

'Even more baffling to see this 'joke' from the cofounder of Media Diversity Australialet alone someone who isn't Asian.

'You created this cheap meme as an Asian person? It's odd - I would never even dream of cracking a joke about Lebanese people, even though we're all from the same continent of Asia.'

Her Oscars comment was first posted on X, and reposted on Instagram with hashtags including #brownmum, but the post divided her followers

Antoinette Lattouf was stood down by the ABC after her posts about the war in Gaza (pictured) and her repost of a report by Human Rights Watch triggered a furious backlash

He added: 'You may understand the tiger mum trope, but reinforcing these stereotypes can be harmful.

'Especially as second generation migrants, many of us are trying to work to change these stereotypes for the next generation.'

Another added: 'Hmmmm, yeah, no. Definitely not funny... It's a very tone deaf 'joke' honey.'

Lattouf later added: 'It has definitely given me plenty to think about and I do appreciate just how hard it is to have nuance [sic] and respectful engagement on social media.'

She was stood down by the ABC after her posts about the war in Gaza and her repost of a report by Human Rights Watch triggered a furious backlash, including an email campaign to the ABC by Jewish lawyers.

She has since launched a case with the Fair Work Commission over her dismissal, but on Monday, her lawyers said the ABC have now revised their defence.

'The ABC has filed an amended response to [Lattouf's] case that now says it did not sack her,' her lawyer Josh Bornstein posted on X.

'This contrasts its original filed response which confirmed that it terminated her employment.'

He added: 'We have sought a detailed explanation from the ABC for its about face.

'If the ABC pursues this jurisdictional challenge, it is likely that evidence will need to be called from senior management.'

Ms Lattouf said her alleged sacking had been a warning to other ABC journalists to stop them from speaking out.

'If I wasn't sacked, what was it?' she asked industry website Mumbrella.

'I'm keen to hear all the creative euphemisms that will be used to try and explain this backflip to me.

'Was I unshackled? Liberated? Untied? Subjected to a workplace imbalance correction?

'The facts are, I was sacked, when the audience and my producers were expecting me to return.

'The decision to sack me was also leaked to a rival media outlet almost immediately, sending a chilling warning shot to everyone else working at the ABC.'

The ABC insists it has not changed its position, but has not offered a detailed explanation how her temporary role was brought to its sudden early conclusion.

'It was clear on the evidence provided in the ABC's response to Ms Lattouf's claim that she had not been terminated,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia in a statement.

'The jurisdictional objection was formalised as soon as it became clear the matter had not resolved.

'If the ABC is successful in its application the unlawful termination claim will not proceed.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Ms Lattouf for comment.
Breast cancer treatment needs to be improved urgently as research has found the annual cost of the disease to the economy is set to rise by 40 per cent to 3.6billion in the next ten years.

Growing numbers of cases will have a huge financial impact  on top of the devastating emotional effect on patients and families  unless screening rates improve and cases are intercepted earlier.

If the screening rate could be increased to eight out of ten women aged between 51 and 70 from the current rate of around six out of ten women, that alone could save up to 111million a year, the research discovered.

The report by the Demos think-tank and Breast Cancer Now put the cost to the NHS in terms of diagnosis and treatment, the cost to society in terms of productivity-loss, and the hidden price-tag to individuals such as loss of income.

If the screening rate could be increased to eight out of ten women aged between 51 and 70 from the current rate of around six out of ten women, that alone could save up to 111million a year

In 2024 the total cost of breast cancer to the economy is estimated to be 2.6billion to 2.8billion

In 2024 the total cost of breast cancer to the economy is estimated to be 2.6billion to 2.8billion, or around 0.1 per cent of gross output. This includes 727million spent on NHS treatment and screening, plus patient productivity loss of 1.8billion.

In 2019, there were 56,343 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed, the report said, but by 2034, this is expected to have increased by 14.8 per cent to 64,708 cases.

Researchers also looked at the 'true human cost of breast cancer', with well-being costs associated with it estimated to amount to 17.5billion in 2024. This includes costs incurred through reduced quality of life and early death, and the impact on carers, partners and children, such as through anxiety.

Baroness Morgan, chief executive of Breast Cancer Now, said: 'These revealing, first-of-their-kind, estimates of the economic and well-being costs of breast cancer in the UK show that breast cancer is far from being a 'done deal', and the consequences of us failing to act now are dire.'

The report said that increasing screening rates, more cancer nurse specialists and better help for people returning to work would have the highest impact on cutting costs. For example, increasing the screening uptake to 80 per cent would lead to economic savings in the range of 96million to 111million in 2034.

Baroness Morgan chief executive of Breast Cancer Now said: 'The consequences of us failing to act now are dire'

Current figures show that 62.3 per cent of women aged 50 to 71 in England take up their offer of breast screening.

Breast cancer is also the second most common cause of cancer death in the UK but 23 per cent of cases are preventable.

The study said 'breast cancer can be related to lifestyle factors, such as being overweight, alcohol consumption and physical inactivity'.

Lucy Bush, of Demos, said: 'Shifting towards a more preventative model of healthcare overall is vital.

'A preventative approach will reduce the strain on the public purse at the same time as creating a stronger and more resilient population.'

An NHS England spokesman said: 'We are working hard to improve diagnosis and survival rates, with 1,100 more early-stage breast cancer patients diagnosed a year than before the pandemic, not only because it is the right thing for patients' health but as this analysis makes clear, there are also wider benefits in reducing the human and financial costs.'
Aboriginal businessman calls for Australia Day and flag to be changed

An Aboriginal business leader has slammed the celebration of Australia Day on January 26 - and the nation's flag - as a 'breach of human rights'.

Jay Walton, 47, spent the majority of his life not knowing he was Aboriginal until he discovered his Indigenous bloodline through an Elder when he was in his 30s.

Ever since, Mr Walton says he has been raising awareness about why January 26 is such a disrespectful date to celebrate being Australian.

He told Daily Mail Australia that people 'blindly celebrated' Australia Day every year not knowing the pain it caused their Aboriginal counterparts.

'It's picking the scab of the wound for every Indigenous Australian,' he said.

'The notion that we could get on board with this is ridiculous, when the date represents a day when Australia was illegally invaded and land was stolen.

'A simple gesture of respect and compassion to Indigenous Australians is to just change the date.'

Jay Walton, 47, has called for the Australia Day and the national flag to be changed. He is pictured modelling his brand's new '3 Flags 1 Country' t-shirts and tote bags

Mr Walton is pictured as a child in regional NSW. He would not find out about his Indigenous bloodline until his 30s.

Mr Walton said he would 'love' for there to be a day when all Australians could get together and celebrate Australia for the country it is.

However, he believes this is impossible until the date is changed.

READ MORE: Sunrise host Nat Barr calls out Anthony Albanese over Australia Day Advertisement

The businessman said Australia's national flag represented a 'breach of human rights' - with the Union Jack a 'kick in the face' to every Indigenous Australian.

He has called for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags to be incorporated into the current flag.

'The Union Jack is a daily reminder to anyone who is Indigenous that their mob has been murdered and their land has been invaded,' he said.

'The simple action of representing all three flags together in a show of support for solidarity around this topic is a healthier way to handle Australia Day celebrations until the date is changed.

'To have meaningful reconciliation we need to acknowledge the three countries.'

Mr Walton has been 'extremely connected' to his Indigenous culture ever since he found out he was a fourth-generation Aboriginal man.

Mr Walton has released a line of t-shirts and tote bags that display the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags with the slogan '3 flags, 1 country' (pictured)

His great-grandparents are the renowned bonesetter Thomas Mayers and Aboriginal healer, Mary Ann Perry, from the Worimi Nation, who formed the Mayers Clan in NSW's eastern Port Stephens and Great Lakes regions.

He is also related to Aboriginal former Balmain Tigers player John Mayers.

Mr Walton, who grew up in regional NSW, said his family probably didn't want to identify as Aboriginal due to institutionalised racism.

'I had to use google to learn about my own family bloodline, an Indigenous mob in my town knew that me and my family were related to them,' he said.

'I used to pass the Missions every day on the way to school in Taree and Forster thinking how unjust it was that the white fellas are on one side, and the black fellas on the other.'

Mr Walton has released a line of t-shirts and tote bags that display the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags with the slogan '3 flags, 1 country' for his sustainable brand Re-Loved Apparel.

He is working with One Tree Planted to ensure a tree is planted in Australia from each garment sold, with the aim of planting at least 45,000 trees.
Regions told to brace for extreme cold

13:31, January 22, 2024 By Wang Xiaoyu ( Chinadaily.com.cn

Meteorologists warned of low temperatures, blizzards and strong winds on Sunday as a cold wave swept through central and eastern parts of China, prompting authorities to secure heating, uninterrupted electricity supply and safe transportation amid the freeze.

The National Meteorological Center issued a yellow alert for a cold wave and blue alerts for snow and wind on Sunday morning. China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

Due to the cold wave that is expected to affect large parts of central and eastern China till Tuesday, Sun Jun, chief forecaster at the center, said in an interview on Saturday that the affected areas will see temperatures drop by 6C, with worst-hit areas likely to see temperatures plummet by as much as 14C.

"Temperatures in parts of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and the provinces of Shanxi and Hebei will plummet by more than 14C," Sun said.

The cold wave will bring snowfall to northwest China and some central provinces, while the provinces of Guizhou, Hunan and Jiangxi, as well as the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, will witness sleet in some areas through Friday, according to Sun.

"Special attention should be paid to the weather's impact on transportation, energy supply and electricity maintenance," he added.

"This cold spell won't be as severe as the one in December, but it will have a strong and widespread impact, especially in the southern regions. Overall, the decrease in minimum temperature will be relatively more significant than the fall in maximum temperature," Sun said.

The Ministry of Emergency Management said on Friday evening that it had held a joint meeting with the meteorological, public security, transportation and energy authorities, as well as local authorities in 13 provincial-level regions, to evaluate the impact of the cold wave and arrange precautionary and response measures.

It added that the impact of this round of rain and snow may be felt for a long time. The rush of people moving from one place to another and other logistical pressures in the run up to the Spring Festival holiday could worsen the situation.

"It is important to focus on risk prevention in key industries and sectors and strengthen monitoring of road networks and inspections of ice accumulation on power grids," the ministry said.

Personnel, materials and equipment should be assigned to key roads and regions in advance so that snow clearing can be carried out promptly. All-out efforts should be made to ensure the safety of power grids and smooth running of traffic, it added.

Work teams have been sent to Hunan and Guizhou provinces to offer guidance, the ministry added.

China Southern Power Grid's branch in Guangxi said on Friday that the company had arranged staff to monitor icing around the clock, and its 220 sets of icing monitoring devices had been activated.

"The company is also making full use of patrol drones and infrared thermometers to perform thorough 'health checkup' of power grids in mountainous regions," it said.

State Grid Hunan Electric Power Co in Hunan province has also sent nearly 6,000 personnel and about 2,000 vehicles to carry out inspections and tests of power grids and transformer substations. Emergency repair teams and equipment have also been set up in key regions, local media reported.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
MBABANE  The E30 million that was budgeted for the national dialogue has been utilised.

The money was used to cater for the Peoples Parliament (Sibaya). It should aslo be noted that there were also donations from companies and members of the public. However, a breakdown of the utilisation of the funds could not be easily ascertained from the responsible ministry. The funds were transferred from the Ministry of Finance to that of Home Affairs, presumably before the start of Sibaya, to cater for expenses related to the national exercise. There had been questions regarding the E30 million following the Peoples Parliament that was held from October 23, 2023 to November 3, 2023.

Budgeted

The E30 million was budgeted for a national dialogue, but government has not disclosed how much of that amount was utilised. Some government officials became emotional when asked to respond on issues pertaining the national dialogue and the utilisation of the E30 million. There has been dissenting views on whether Sibaya 2023, Peoples Parliament, was indeed the national dialogue that Eswatini was advised by the SADC Organ Troika committee to convene. The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, in his 2022/2023 national budget, announced that government had set aside E20 million for the national exercise (national dialogue). However, the hostility of the environment could not allow government to convene the dialogue at the time.

Announced

In the 2023/2024 national budget, the minister announced that E30 million was allocated for the same exercise. He explained that E10 million was added to the unutilised 2022 budget.

During portfolio committees performance report and budget debates last year, Members of Parliament (MPs) attempted to quiz ministers on the whereabouts of the E30 million. The MPs wanted to know which ministry was housing the E30 million, so that they could direct all the questions they had to the relevant ministry, including the preparations for the crucial exercise.

The questions on the whereabouts of the funds were raised when the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development appeared before the House of Assembly Portfolio Committee, the Ministry of Home Affairs, as well as the Ministry of Finance. The Ministry of Finance, in its written responses, mentioned that it was in government coffers and had not been allocated to any ministry at the time.

Revealed

It has since been revealed by the Ministry of Finance that the budget for the national dialogue was transferred to the Ministry of Home Affairs. The ministry was responding to questions from this publication on whether the E30 million for the national dialogue was utilised and which government portfolio managed the money. The ministrys Communications Officer, Setsabile Dlamini, confirmed that the funds were utilised and were no longer in government coffers or diverted to other portfolios. The budget for the national dialogue was provided for in the 2023/24 budget.

This was the second time we were providing for it, since you are aware that in 2022/2023 we provided E20 million. The funds were released and transferred to the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was responsible for Sibaya. Whether it has been fully utilised or not, the Ministry of Home Affairs would be in a better position to respond, she said. The Ministry of Home Affairs Principal Secretary, Nhlanhla Nxumalo, referred questions to either the Communications Officer, Mlandvo Dlamini, or the Under Secretary, Nomphumelelo Dlamini.

The questions that were directed to these officials sought to establish whether the funds were fully utilised and what the money was spent on. The officials were also asked what differentiated the 2023 Sibaya from that of 2018, in terms of requiring such a budget, considering that the budget for the latter had never been announced before. The Under Secretary, Nomphumelelo Dlamini on Friday, acknowledged receipt of the questionnaire and promised to respond soonest. Thank you for the questionnaire, we will respond and get back to you soonest, she said.

Confirmed

The ministrys Communications Officer, Dlamini, confirmed that the ministry received the budget. When he was quizzed on its utilisation, he said the pronouncement was part of the accountability and transparency that government was working on. He promised to send a detailed response in writing that answered all the questions from the publication. At the time the report was compiled, the officers had not responded to the questions. It is a norm that every five years, after the country completes the general elections, the next step is the appointment of Cabinet ministers and prime minister (PM). The PM is appointed by His Majesty King Mswati III on the last day of the Peoples Parliament (Sibaya). In 2023, the same approach was adopted, but the only difference was that it took roughly eight days, including the two days of postponement due to heavy rains. The Sibaya 2023 followed the same approach as the 2018 and 2013 Peoples Parliament. It was officially opened by the Chairman of Sibaya, King Mswati III. There were panellists who presented on several national issues, including the unrest. EmaSwati also made individual submissions.

Experienced

Besides that the eight-day national exercise was longer than that of the previous years; it came after a year and half when the nation experienced political turmoil that led to an unrest, which saw a lot of emaSwati losing their lives and property being torched and vandalised. The SADC Organ Troika committee, when it visited the country in 2021, suggested that Eswatini needed to convene a national dialogue, as a means to forge a way forward in the call for reforms. The thinking by many, which was supported by the SADC terms of reference of the dialogue of having political parties being part of the dialogue, was that the dialogue would be different from Sibaya. However, Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo was quoted by our sister publication the Times Sunday, last year November, stating that Sibaya was actually the dialogue that the country was advised to conduct.
2GB host Ben Fordham has unleashed on Anthony Albanese as an emergency caucus meeting on the cost of living crisis is set to cost taxpayers nearly half a million dollars.

The Prime Minister has summoned almost 100 MPs and senators to travel to Canberra this Wednesday for the one-off 'talkfest', scheduled a fortnight before the first parliamentary sitting for 2024.

It's estimated to cost $468,818 for all Labor politicians based outside the ACT to travel with staff and stay overnight in Canberra for the meeting, according to NewsCorp.

A fired-up Fordham branded the 'conservative' estimate as outrageous as millions of Aussies struggle with soaring living costs.

'This doesn't pass the pub test,' he said. 'That's almost half of million dollars of your money that's going down the gurgler this Wednesday.

'We're blowing a heap of money to make this happen. The flights, the cars, the accommodation and travel allowances.'

Taxpayers will foot the bill for the Prime Minister's emergency caucus meeting to address the cost of living crisis, including rising petrol costs

It's understood the Labor politicians will discuss ways to ease financial pressures on Australian families at Wednesday's meeting.

'We have economists and business leaders calling for practical cost of living relief measures such as cutting the fuel excise,' Fordham continued.

'The prime minister could have this tax scrapped by the second week of February when parliament returns- but there's no sign of that happening.

'We have pensioners begging for a freeze on council rates; we have power bills still climbing even though the prime minister promised they would go down.

'And what does Albanese do? He schedules outside a sitting week, which means additional costs for getting everyone to the nation's capital.'

There are growing pleas from struggling Aussies for the the government to address soaring cost of living expenses

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has come under heavy scrutiny for Wednesday's emergency caucus meeting

Fordham went on to claim the prime minister may have not only lost his mojo but also 'his marbles'.

'Once upon a time he would have stopped this from happening- his instinct would have told him that this isn't going to pass the pub test,' he said.

'These days he doesn't recognise the hypocrisy. He's spending half a million bucks of someone else's money to talk about the cost of living.'

Liberal Senator Dave Sharma also weighed into the saga on Monday when he branded the caucus as a costly 'stunt'.

'This government has had 18 months to deal with these issues, and Albanese decides in the dying days of summer to pull all Labor MPs back to Canberra at significant expense,' Senator Sharma told Sky News

'I hope something substantial comes out of it rather than a headline and a media opportunity.
Ask Nikki Haley's supporters in New Hampshire to explain why they are voting for her and the answer is clear: Trump.

A J.L. Partners/DailyMail.com poll shows that her backers are motivated primarily by the idea of stopping the former president.

In contrast, Trump's supporters say: Country, America, or border.

The results of our exclusive poll illustrate how one figure dominates the entire Republican nomination race, motivating not just his supporters but his opponent's supporters too.

More than half of Haley's fans said the main reason for backing the former South Carolina governor was 'to stop Trump.'

Nikki Haley's supporters are backing her for one major reason: To stop Trump. Our exclusive poll asked 651 New Hampshire Republican primary voters to explain why they were supporting their preferred candidate. For Haley supporters the vote is all about one man

In contrast, Trump supporters have a clear message about their man. They believe he is the best person to strengthen the country, its economy and borders

Ron DeSantis' decision to drop out leaves Tuesday's New Hampshire primary as a head-to-head contest between Haley and Trump. Haley needs a strong finish to continue her campaign

And that is part of the reason she is struggling to put a dent in the frontrunner's colossal lead.

The results come from a survey of 651 people who said they will vote in Tuesday's New Hampshire primary.

Respondents were asked to explain their choice in a single sentence.

'Nikki Haleys support is not about Nikki Haley. Only two percent say they are voting for her because of her policies,' said James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners, which conducted the survey.

'Instead it is about stopping Donald Trump. That, coupled with low enthusiasm for Haley, limits her voting pool in these primaries to a relatively small number of people, especially in later contests where undeclared voters cannot vote.

'Meanwhile Trump's supporters are energised for positive reasons: Trumps strength, his plans on the economy and  above all  his record in his first term.

'This is an election that Trump dominates: even his opposition knows it.'

Trump's blowout win in Iowa last week means he has already taken one step towards his party's presidential nomination.

Another win in New Hampshire would make him all but unstoppable.

Only three percent of Haley's supporters say her policies are the reason for supporting her

Trump's supporters say they have positive reasons to vote for him on Tuesday

The poll teased out reasons for his huge support.

Some 34 percent of respondents said they were backing him because of his 'strong record as president.'

Another 14 percent said he 'could save the country.'

And another 11 percent said he had 'strong leadership skills.'

As one Trump supporter put it: 'He has proven he can run our country as a leader should!

'I may not have liked him personally, but I agreed with his policies and how the United States was a strong force in the world and not viewed as weak.'

Those views are powering Trump to a likely victory. Overall, our poll found he had a 10-point lead over Haley.

J.L. Partners surveyed 650 registered Republicans and undeclared voters in New Hampshire from January 17 to 21. The results carry a margin of error of plus/minus 3.9 percentage points

Haley is hoping that a strong ground game can turn out undeclared voters who are eligible to take part in New Hampshire's semi-open primary, and give her an edge

Her supporters' top three words were: Trump, Donald and Biden.

Some 15 percent said she was more 'moderate,' seven percent said she was 'the most qualified,' and six percent said she could 'unify the country.'

But their words do not exactly suggest they are fired up by Haley the candidate.

'All the good candidates have dropped out and she has the best chance of beating Trump if she doesn't sell out to him again,' said one voter.

Others pointed to her electability.

'I am voting for Nikki Haley because I believe she can beat Biden and she would be a new generational leader,' said another voter.

Haley has run on a message that she is the most electable candidate on offer, with the best chance of beating Biden.

As the race reaches its business end, she has toughened her attacks on Trump.

'I voted for President Trump twice. I was proud to serve America and his administration,' is a standard part of her stump speech.

'I agree with a lot of his policies. But rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him. And y'all know I'm right. Chaos follows him.'

Campaign groups are trying to boost her support by encouraging people who are registered as 'undeclared' to vote for her in the state's 'semi-open' primary.
A man has died after he was found seriously injured at a house while three people have been arrested.

Emergency services found the 33-year-old man at a house on Wickham Road in Hampton East, southeast Melbourne, about 3:45pm on Sunday.

He was unresponsive when paramedics rushed him to hospital with 'life-threatening injuries' where he later died.

Homicide squad detectives arrested three people, two men aged 27 and 28 and a 25-year-old woman, at the scene.

Police have arrested three people from a home in Hampton East in southeast Melbourne where a 33-year-old man was found with life-threatening injuries and later died (pictured, police at the scene)

The trio are assisting police with their inquires. No charges have been laid.

Victoria Police believe the trio and the deceased knew each other.

Police cordoned off the home as they commenced investigations into the incident.

Investigators are yet to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident with 'the investigation ongoing'.

Anyone with information related to the incident has been urged to contact police.
Woollies will not sell Australia Day merch due to decline in sales

A supermarket boss has slammed Woolworths as 'Wokeworths' for ditching Australia Day merchandise ahead of Friday's public holiday.

John-Paul Drake, who runs 66 Drakes Supermarkets across South Australia and Queensland, announced he would sell a range of Australia Day products this week.

Mr Drake added that until the date was changed, he and his family would continue to celebrate Australia Day on January 26.

'Whether you choose to celebrate Australia Day or not is totally up to you,' he said.

'As a retailer, it's my responsibility to let my customers choose if a product is suitable for them.

'Just because you're lactose-intolerant, does that mean I shouldn't sell dairy products in store?

'How would you feel if I told you I didn't like chocolate so we'll no longer be selling it?'

John-Paul Drake, the director of family-owned Drakes Supermarkets, has slammed 'woke' Woolworths after the chain announced it would no longer sell Australia Day products

The grocery boss said he would continue to celebrate Australia Day until the date was changed

The supermarket boss said he anticipated some pushback.

'Some of you may choose to boycott our stores  and I respect your right to choose where you spend your money,' he wrote.

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Aldi joins Woolworths and confirms it won't be selling any Australia Day merchandise ahead of the long weekend Advertisement

'I do ask, however, that you respect my team if you do enter our stores.

'They do not deserve to cop abuse for my values.'

Australians were divided over Mr Drake's argument.

'I agree with you. It's about choice. Supermarkets shouldn't dictate what we can and can't buy,' one person wrote.

'Only the people who hate Australia are asking to change the date. Why should we trust them?' another commented.

'I'm not saying I agree or disagree with boycotting but being a white male in the dominant culture means your holidays and your family are always represented,' a third user wrote.

'Your post is tone deaf and ignorant.'

A fourth said: 'If one store doesn't sell patriotic garbage for a public holiday thats only been set since 1995, then just go to a store that does. Pretty simple really.'

Drakes' latest catalogue has dedicated an entire page to Australia Day 'ingredients' such as bunting, napkins and discounted party pies.

Drakes' latest catalogue has dedicated an entire page to Australia Day 'ingredients' such as bunting, napkins and discounted party pies (pictured is owner John-Paul Drake)

Romeo's Retail Group also shared an image of some of the products it would selling in the lead-up to Australia Day online.

A man holding two Australia Day flags and wearing a straw hat with the word 'Australia' on it was posted to Romeo's Facebook page.

Coles has confirmed it would continue to stock a range of Australia-themed merchandise in the lead-up to the public holiday.

However, customers have noted a lot of the 'Australian-themed summer entertaining merchandise' is at the back of stores in small displays.

However, Aldi won't celebrate the holiday.

Since the announcement, Woolworths stores (pictured) have been targeted by vandals

The debate about Australia Day and celebrating it on January 26, the day in 1788 when the British Flag was first raised at Sydney Cove after the arrival of the First Fleet, has been growing over the past decades.

Many Indigenous Australians view and refer to the date as 'Invasion Day' and as a day of mourning.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton was quick off the mark to demand shoppers boycott Woolworths over the decision.

The politician attacked the supermarket boss for wading in on social issues and signing up to Anthony Albanese's 'woke agenda'.

On Friday, Mr Dutton said he wouldn't personally be picking up Australian themed thongs from Coles but maintained Woolworths should still be selling the products.

Since then a number of Woolworths stores have been targeted by vandals.
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A war of words has erupted in one of Sydney's most expensive suburbs after two wild parties kept one local awake.

Fed-up resident Sam, who is in his late 30s, dropped off 300 letters to his neighbours in the affluent harbourside suburb of Vaucluse in Sydney's east, urging them to file police complaints about the parties.

In the letter, which was shared to Reddit on Monday, Sam claimed he asked the hosts to turn down the music. However, instead of complying, the hosts continued partying until the early hours of the morning.

'You may have noticed loud parties in the area on both Friday and Saturday nights,' Sam wrote in the letter.

'If you didn't hear them, then consider yourself lucky - you either have a well insulated house and/or are a deep sleeper.

'On both nights I requested of the occupants that the volume be lowered. On Saturday in particular, this had, if anything, the opposite of the desired effect.

'The music, as well as singing/shouting and general raucous behaviour, was loudest between 12-2.30am.'

The fed-up neighbour, named Sam, labelled the hosts as 'miscreants' and described their behaviour as 'selfish and disgraceful', claiming to file a police report in relation to the parties

An outraged Vaucluse resident penned a letter to his neighbours after two young boys hosted consecutive parties with 'loud music' that finished at 2.30am

Sam described the hosts' behaviour as 'selfish and disgraceful' - conduct he claims is a reflection of the self-centred mentality of the younger generation.

He added the letter was not some 'old angry guy yelling for kids to get off his lawn' but a call for common decency.

'This sort of behaviour is selfish and disgraceful. It's symptomatic of the degradation of values and the utter self-entitlement and disregard for the wellbeing of anyone but oneself,' he wrote.

'A narcissistic, 'self as the centre of the universe' mentality - which is becoming increasingly prevalent amongst the younger generation/s.'

'This is not the case of the old angry guy yelling at kids to get off his lawn. How about just a bit of common decency? Consideration, kindness, empathy, respect, compassion, sensitivity; you know, decency. It used to be a thing.'

The resident added he rang the police, as the legal cut-off for music is 12am, but they were unable to attend due to 'higher priority calls elsewhere'.

KIIS FM breakfast presenter Kyle Sandilands, who lives near the party-house, said he received a letter and could even hear the music from across the water.

Sandilands and his co-host Jackie'O Henderson spoke with Sam on Sunday about the two-night party bender.

'It was a little out-of-control,' Sam said. 'It used to happen a lot, but it would end at about midnight, but they're ending a fair bit later these days.

'I'd like to say the matter with that particular household is effectively resolved,' Sam said.

'The father of the household got in contact with me, we had a brief exchange. It wasn't an ideal exchange but I felt at the end it was basically resolved.

The radio hosts also spoke with one of the party hosts, 23-year-old Jordan, who apologised to his neighbours on air.

Jordan explained he threw the impromptu parties, which had no more than 50 guests at each bash, w

KIIS FM presenter Kyle Sandilands said he received one of the letters and could hear the loud music from his home. Sandilands along with co-host Jackie'O Henderson spoke with Sam and one of the young party hosts

The 23-year-old said he found out about the letter after his friends sent him copies 'having a laugh'.

He felt as though Sam could dealt with the situation in a more 'mature way' but the issue was resolved after Sam and his dad spoke.

'I only found out about this letter because all my neighbours actually sent it to me having a laugh,' Sam said.

'It was wrong in that aspect but the way he came across and the way he wanted to tone it done was incorrect. He could have handled it in a much more mature way but it's resolved now on our end.

'He (dad) was like "boys will be boys". I know what I did was wrong in hosting it a bit too late but it was in the silly season, end of the year and it is what it is.

'I do want to say sorry to all my neighbours as I did disrupt them.'

Jackie O asked if Jordan would like to speak to Sam, to which Jordan replied: 'No, not at all.'

'We spoke briefly. I don't want to have any more interaction with that guy. It's all good.'
Roger Rogerson was having a few schooners at the Evening Star Hotel in Sydney's Surry Hills when this reporter asked if he would sign a copy of his book.

Rogerson, who enjoyed his public image as a hard man, liked to add a personal touch with such inscriptions and didn't worry about offending any audience.

During a lunch in the Chinese Cultural Club years earlier, he amused himself by signing a title page for an Asian man: 'Best wishes, Loger Logerson'.

On this occasion in May 2010, the notorious old detective asked for some information about who would be receiving The Dark Side, a memoir of his time chasing crooks.

Rogerson didn't miss a beat when told it would be a gift for a country cousin who appreciated true crime stories and was a keen sporting shooter.

Roger Rogerson often bragged about the crooks he had killed during his years as a Sydney detective. He is pictured centre while on the speaking circuit with the late Melbourne criminal and author Mark 'Chopper' Read (right) and former AFL player Mark 'Jacko' Jackson

'Dear Paddy,' he began.

'They tell me you were a pretty good shot! But were you as good as me! Three shots, three men dead. All past tense. Hope you enjoy the read.'

Those three dead men were drug dealer Warren Lanfranchi and armed robbers Phillip Western and Lawrence 'Butchy' Byrne.

Rogerson certainly shot dead Lanfranchi, probably didn't kill Western and, if he wasn't solely responsible for Byrne's demise, he was happy to take the credit.

Four years after that book signing and for the rest of his days, Rogerson would deny shooting dead drug dealer Jamie Gao in one of Sydney's most inept underworld killings.

Rogerson, who died on Sunday while serving life for Gao's murder, has been accused publicly and privately of taking other lives over the years.

He had more motive than most for having sex worker Sallie-Anne Huckstepp murdered in 1986, a crime generally attributed to the late gangster Neddy Smith.

Huckstepp had been Lanfranchi's lover and Smith maintained until his death that he and Rogerson worked together in a criminal partnership.

Rogerson signed a copy of his book The Dark Side with the inscription, 'They tell me you were a pretty good shot! But were you as good as me! Three shots, three men dead. All past tense. I hope you enjoy the read'

Rogerson always denied murdering Huckstepp or anyone else but was happy to revel in killing crooks in the line of duty - whether he actually fired the fatal shots or not.

As a member of the Special Weapons and Operations Squad, Rogerson was regularly called upon to take part in the arrest of dangerous offenders in the 1970s.

In June 1976 he was with a SWOS team which surrounded a house at Avoca Beach on the Central Coast to apprehend Western, a bank robber and jail escapee.

When Western tried to flee, the SWOS opened fire and killed him.

'We all fired and we blew his head off,' Rogerson later said, but some colleague's memories differ.

In February 1978, the Armed Hold-Up Squad was tipped off that Byrne and two other men were going to rob the takings of Souths Juniors leagues club at Kingsford.

A gun battle ensued on Anzac Parade with Rogerson and other detectives armed with 12 gauge shotguns and .38 revolvers blazing away at the ambushed felons.

Byrne was killed but not necessarily by Rogerson. That did not discourage him from claiming this as his another notch on his pump-action Remington 870.

Rogerson was the most feted police officer in NSW and his network of criminal informants and police contacts spread across the country, particularly into Victoria and Queensland.

Roger Rogerson was present when police shot dead Phillip Western (left) at Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast in June 1976 and Lawrence 'Butchy' Byrne at Kingsford in February 1978

There is no doubt who killed Lanfranchi in Dangar Place at Chippendale in June 1981, just whether he was shot dead in cold blood or during a lawful arrest.

Smith, who drove Lanfranchi to meet Rogerson that day, later said Lanfranchi went along to pay a $10,000 bribe to the detective.

Rogerson said he was forced to twice shoot Lanfranchi when he pulled a weapon.

At a coronial inquest, Rogerson was found to have shot Lanfranchi while trying to arrest him but not that he acted in self-defence.

Huckstepp's friend Lyn Woodward supposedly had evidence Lanfranchi had gone to the meeting unarmed but she disappeared hours after making her first appearance at the inquest and was never seen again.

Smith had given the coroner evidence favourable to Rogerson and would claim he was subsequently granted a 'green light' to commit armed robberies and other offences.

Rogerson's reputation as the NSW Police Force's brightest star was by then at least slipping. It would never recover from what happened next.

On June 6, 1984, Drug Squad detective Michael Drury was shot through the kitchen window of his home at Chatswood.

Drury had infiltrated a Melbourne drug syndicate through Sydney-based dealers Jack Richardson and Frank Avery who led him to major southern player Alan Williams.

Rogerson had more motive than most for having sex worker Sallie-Anne Huckstepp murdered in 1986, a crime generally attributed to the late gangster Neddy Smith. Huckstepp is pictured

Rogerson shot dead drug dealer Warren Lanfranchi (left) in June 1981.His friend Lyn Woodward (right) was set to give evidence at a coronial inquest into Lanfranchi's death but disappeared

In a dying deposition Drury said he had refused a bribe from Rogerson to change his evidence in the prosecution of Williams.

By that time, Avery had already been found dead of a heroin overdose - police believed it was a 'hotshot' - and Richardson had been shot dead.

Williams would testify he paid Chris Flannery to kill Drury at Rogerson's behest.

Rogerson was charged with attempting to bribe and conspiring to murder Drury but was eventually acquitted.

Flannery left his city apartment for the last time in May 1985 and has not been since since. Rogerson denied having anything to do with his disappearance.

Huckstepp, who had publicly accused Rogerson of murdering her boyfriend Lanfranchi, was found floating in Centennial Park in February 1986.

Having been suspended since the Drury investigation, Rogerson was dismissed from the NSW Police Force in April the same year.

From then and for the next couple of decades Rogerson's name was almost always prefaced by 'disgraced former detective' - but his downfall was not complete.

Drug dealer Jamie Gao (above) was shot dead by either Rogerson or fellow former detective Glen McNamara in a storage until at Padstow in1994

In May 2014, Rogerson and former colleague Glen McNamara were filmed entering a storage facility with Gao. Three men entered, two men left.

While attempting to steal almost 4kg of ice from Gao, either Rogerson or McNamara shot him twice in the chest.

Both were found guilty of murder and in September 2016 sentenced to life in prison.

McNamara claimed Rogerson had once said of Huckstepp, 'f*** me, she had to go', and that he was terrified of him.

Smith, who was acquitted of Huckstepp's murder in 1999, was also cleared of murdering drug dealers Lewton Shu (1983), Danny Chubb (1984) Barry Croft and Barry McCann (both 1987) and Bruce Sandery (1988).

He died at Long Bay jail in September 2021 while serving life for killing brothel-keeper Harvey Jones in 1983 and two-truck driver Ronald Flavell in 1987.

Rogerson suffered a brain aneurysm at the same jail on Thursday and died at Prince of Wales Hospital on Sunday night. He was 83.
NSW regulations meant that it had to be written in Melbourne

The world's first prescription for party drug MDMA has been written by an Australian doctor to help a traumatised psychiatric patient.

The move comes after MDMA and magic mushrooms were permitted to be prescribed in clinical trials from July 1 last year.

Ted Cassidy, psychiatrist and co-founder of Monarch Mental Health Group (MMHG), wrote the script at the weekend for a female patient suffering chronic, treatment resistant post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dr Cassidy claims that 'one day with MDMA assisted therapy achieved more than is usually achieved in a year'.

Doctor Ted Cassidy made history on Saturday when he wrote the world's first MDMA Psychedelic Assisted Therapy script for a patient with chronic treatment resistant PTSD

Dr Cassidy is the co-founder of Sydney's Monarch Mental Health Group. Because of NSW regulations he and the patient were forced to travel to Melbourne to write the script

His team had to travel to Melbourne to write the script because of restrictive rules in New South wales.

Dr Cassidy is now asking Premier Chris Minns to change the regulations so that the next patient will not have to leave the state to get the treatment they need.

Dr Cassidy shared the groundbreaking announcement on LinkedIn alongside a photo of the historic script.

Dr Cassidy and his team had been developing the treatment over the past year by building on MMHG's 10 years of experience in outpatient mental health treatments.

'It is a career highlight for me - ...the very first regular normal script that any doctor has written for a psychedelic medicine in the world,' he wrote.

'Todays treatment is the worlds first Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT) treatment ever given outside of research and compassionate use protocols [and] is built on a history of psychedelic practice back to the dawn of civilisation and across all indigenous cultures.

'I am proud to have been part of the team at Monarch that has made this the first clinical Psychedelic program available to patients in the world.

'I am proud that Australia has taken world leadership in translating psychedelic research into clinical reality.'

The treatment method had previously only been used in research and compassionate cases.

A research paper published in Nature Medicine in 2021 found the effects of MDMA on patients with chronic PTSD was extraordinary.

Doctors found that patients receiving the treatment did not suffer adverse events and that MDMA-assisted therapy was safe and well-tolerated.

'We conclude that MDMA-assisted therapy represents a potential breakthrough treatment that merits expedited clinical evaluation,' the study concluded.

PTSD is diagnosed when a person goes through a traumatic event and suffers repeated flashbacks where they relive what happened.

MDMA-assisted therapy allows therapists to discuss the underlying traumatic event while patients are dosed with MDMA.

Scientists hope the MDMA will allow the discussion to be had without the patient suffering extreme emotional distress.

The MDMA dose releases 'feel-good' hormones which can boost a patient's mood, and creates a setting for them to open up about their triggers.

Dr Cassidy is calling on premier Chris Minns to re-write the rules around MDMA treatment in NSW so that future patients do not have to travel between cities to receive treatment

Dr Cassidy thanked the staff at MMHG who had helped to get the treatment past its trial stages, including clinical psychologist Monica Schweickle who was the co-therapist for this first treatment.

Dr Schweickle had to travel from Newcastle to Melbourne to assist in the treatment while the patient travelled from rural NSW and Dr Cassidy from Sydney.

Dr Cassidy hopes with the support of the NSW government that this kind of extensive travel will not be needed in the future should the state reform its policies.

He called out the premier and NSW Minister of health Ryan Park to do more to help patients receive the treatment they need in the state they call home.

'Chris Minns' NSW Health insists on this treatment happening in a hospital instead of an outpatient treatment centre, contrary to everywhere else in the world,' he wrote.

'Lets do better NSW!'
Sadiq Khan wants us to pull out of the Pacific trade pact, scrap our deals with Australia, Canada and India, and contract out our commercial policy, with no say, to Brussels.

He does not put it like that, of course. What the Mayor of London says is that rejoining the EU's customs union should be 'on the table'.

But joining the customs union while remaining outside the EU would be like throwing away the burger and eating the napkin.

Britain is a global nation. When we were in the EU, we alone did more trade with the rest of the world than with the bloc.

We were therefore more adversely affected by the customs union than those states which traded mainly with one another.

Keir Starmer insists he would not try to take the UK back into the EU. But like Sadiq Khan, he also wants a 'closer trading relationship' with Europe

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan wants us to pull out of the Pacific trade pact, scrap our deals with Australia, Canada and India, and contract out our commercial policy, with no say, to Brussels

Khan has not, we may be certain, made a cost-benefit analysis of rejoining the customs union. His calculation is political, not economic.

Bluntly, he wants to sound as pro-European as possible without advocating full membership.

That way, he can appeal to London's Remainer majority without repelling those voters (including many who voted to stay in) who loathe the thought of reopening the question.

'I'm not saying today we should rejoin the European Union,' said the mayor, choosing his words carefully. 'What I'm saying is that David Lammy is on to something when he's saying we should have a closer relationship with the European Union.'

Well, duh! If by 'a closer relationship with the European Union' you mean easier trade and travel, great.

Who could be against that? Britain pushed, during the disengagement talks, for the closest possible arrangements; it was not our side that inserted barriers.

Consider the asymmetries in the current deal. Britain grants EU financial services companies 'equivalence', meaning that they can operate here if approved by their own regulators.

The EU does not return the favour  though it offers equivalence to countries as diverse as Mexico and China.

Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn

Britain lets EU visitors enter through its e-gates, but the EU insists that British travellers queue to have their passports stamped.

Britain is happy to admit EU goods with minimal checks. Brussels demands that goods from the UK be subject to full inspection.

Britain wants mutual recognition on food and veterinary standards. Brussels wants Britain to adopt EU standards unilaterally.

I could go on. Essentially, Britain has always wanted the closest relationship compatible with being a sovereign country, based on mutually beneficial arrangements.

The EU, by contrast, wants Brexit to be seen to fail, and is prepared to pay a price to harm its neighbour.

Keir Starmer insists he would not try to take the UK back into the EU. But like Sadiq Khan and David Lammy he, too, wants a 'closer trading relationship' with Europe.

Meanwhile Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn declared that the EU will 'breathe a sigh of relief' if Labour wins the General Election.

There's no doubt about Keir Starmer's and his party's enthusiasm for the EU, whatever he says about re-entry. But when Labour talks of getting closer to Brussels, it doesn't mean easier trade terms that suit both sides.

It means giving in to the EU's demand that Britain should adopt a satellite status.

Reabsorbing us into its customs union is a huge strategic goal for the EU because it would prevent the UK from being a more competitive economy than the Continent.

It would allow Brussels to decree the terms on which we could trade with the US or Australia, with no British input at all. No, this is not about improving our relations with the EU. It is about gesture politics of the shallowest kind.

For the sake of some warm words about Brussels, Khan would sacrifice our real economic interests. Let's hope Londoners see through him.

n Lord Hannan is a former Conservative MEP and serves on the UK Board of Trade.
Labour was accused of wanting to drag Britain back into the EU after senior party figures proposed a 'closer relationship' with Brussels  including rejoining the customs union.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has called for a youth mobility agreement with the EU or a relaxation of post-Brexit visa rules that restrict travel and the ability to work in other European countries.

Separately, Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn suggested that it would 'make sense' to link up more closely with the bloc, which he predicted will breathe a 'sigh of relief' if Labour wins the next election.

But the comments reignited criticism over whether Sir Keir Starmer  an ardent Remainer who has since insisted a Labour government would respect the referendum result  had control over pro-EU elements in the party.

Conservative Party chairman Richard Holden said: 'It's hardly surprising Sadiq Khan wants to drag us back into the EU, given Sir Keir Starmer spent years trying to block Brexit then overturn the largest democratic vote in British history.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has called for a youth mobility agreement with the EU

Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn suggested that it would 'make sense' to link up more closely with the bloc

'And now he's plotting to rip up our new relationship with the EU and even drag us back into the EU by 'stealth' with plans to hand millions of EU nationals the vote.

'Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives will continue to build on our freedoms and stick to the plan which is working and has seen us have higher economic growth than either France or Germany.

'It couldn't be more clear that Labour would take us back to square one.'

Mr Khan, who is facing a mayoral election this year, told a Fabian Society conference on Saturday: 'I'm not saying today we should rejoin the EU.

'What I'm saying is [Shadow Foreign Secretary] David Lammy is on to something when he's saying we should have a closer relationship with the EU.'

Asked if that meant the customs union, he replied: 'I think everything should be on the table.'

In an interview with the Observer, the mayor said a youth mobility scheme would 'benefit us economically, culturally and socially'.

Leading Brexiteer and Tory MP Marco Longhi said last night: 'Sadiq Khan and Hilary Benn confirm the Labour Party's true stance on the EU.

'They never wanted to leave and they want to rejoin  whatever spin Keir Starmer wants voters to think.'

Flags in front of the Paul Henri Spaak building of the European Parliament in Brussels

Former Cabinet minister David Jones said: 'Labour are desperately anxious to undo Brexit, and Khan and Benn's remarks simply underline that.'

Reform UK leader Richard Tice told the Mail: 'Labour clearly have no faith in the country, and want to hand over control back to the unelected bureaucrats of Brussels.

'Voting for Labour will be voting for people who want to give away our hard-fought freedoms.'

A Labour spokesperson said: 'Labour is focussed on facing the future, and making Brexit work - we absolutely will not rejoin the EU, the single market or the customs union.

'Making Brexit work means improving on the botched deal with a stronger collaborative relationship with our neighbours.'
More than 300,000 Russians have signed a petition calling for a train conductor to be fired after she threw a pet cat off a train believing it was a stray.

The white and ginger cat named Twix escaped from his owner on a train travelling between Yekaterinburg and St Petersburg on January 11.

He was found by the conductor who ejected the animal from the carriage while the train stopped in Kirov, east of Moscow.

Hundreds of people searched for the animal in sub-zero temperatures, but the cat was found dead on January 20.

There were reports that it had died from the cold and suffered suspected animal bites.

Twix, a cat, was found dead in Kirov, Russia, after being kicked out of a train into sub-zero temperatures

This is the moment the conductor ejected the animal from the carriage while the train stopped in Kirov, east of Moscow

The incident has sparked outrage in Russia with thousands resharing footage of the cat being dropped in the snow in temperatures approaching minus 30C.

A separate petition calling for criminal charges to be brought against the conductor had gathered more than 100,000 signatures yesterday, only two days after it launched.

Local authorities have so far declined to prosecute the conductor.
MBABANE  Government loses approximately 240 hours of productive time annually to civil servants who arrive late and knock off early from work.

This habit that has become a norm in service delivery points is expected to be a litmus test for Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlaminis envisaged culture of excellence. A culture of excellence is not something that happens by chance. It is the result of deliberate actions, consistent behaviours, and shared values that drive high performance and continuous improvement in an organisation. It has been noted that some civil servants arrive at work later than the stipulated time in their workstations, enjoy extended tea and lunch breaks, before calling it a day 30 minutes before the official knock-off time. On average they must work 1920 hours per year based on 8hrs per day.

This publication conducted random, but strategic visits in some government offices, where service delivery is crucial and discovered the anomaly going on unabated. In some government departments, service had improved, while in others the lax attitude still prevailed. Ministries and departments visited are those of Home Affairs, Department of Social Welfare, Treasury, Commerce, Industry and Trade, Mbabane Revenue Office Central Motor Registry and the Central Statistics office. They were monitored every morning from 8am as well as from 4:30pm until 5:20pm from Monday to Friday. It was rare to find government officials rendering services to the public as early as 8:10am, as most started later than this time. In most instances, the workers started attending to the public at around 8:45am.

On some days, members of the public waited up to 9am, with no one attending to them. From Monday to Friday, the Treasury Department and Mbabane Revenue Office - Central Motor Registry started its operation at 8:30am. By that time, emaSwati had already formed a queue outside the offices, with some having arrived from as early as 7am. A sign was found pinned next to the door informing the public that operations would start 8:30am to 1pm. The service would then resume at 2pm and close at 3pm. However, some of the officers are found inside the building even after 3pm when they stop attending to walk-in clients, but were doing paperwork.



Queue

During a visit to the Ministry of Home Affairs, by 8:45am a long queue had already formed within the ministry, with members of the public complaining about not being attended to. During the course of the week, it was observed that some of the officers would walk in at 8:30am and start attending to the public at 8:50am. Those who came in at 8am would often first chit chat with their friends prior to serving the public. At 4:30pm, the officials stopped attending to the public. Some of the aggrieved citizens told this publication that the officials told them to return the following day, since they had closed for the day. The members of the public were in some instances told that there was no network, hence they could not do anything.

At times, the officers simply inform us that they are tired and we should come back tomorrow. They normally do this just after 4pm, one person said.

At the Department of Social Welfare under the Deputy Prime Ministers Office, officers were found attending to members of the public at exactly 8:30am. Most had arrived at 8am and were supposedly preparing themselves for the day. A visit at 4:30pm, the reception area was empty, save for public notices.

It is laid down procedure that government officials are supposed to start work at exactly 8am and knock off at 5pm, depending on the shifts they are working.

Some officials were seen walking in after 8:30am, while others left the offices on or before 4:30pm.

Reporter

According to calculations done by this reporter, an hour was lost a day, if the morning 30 minutes and that of knock-off time are added together. This implies that government loses five hours a week from civil servants coming late and leaving early.

Eventually, 240 hours of productive time is lost every year. Meanwhile, the PM said inculcating the culture of excellence in all government levels was important.

Worth mentioning is that submissions around the culture of excellence were also presented by the public during Sibaya. Members of the public complained about sluggish government officials whom they felt were not committed to their work.

In a live interview with Eswatini Television Senior Editor John Molelekeng, the PM was asked whether the culture of excellence would be implemented by the new government.

The question follows an incident involving a Cabinet minister, who is said to have approached the PM and apologised for coming late in one of their meetings. The minister later gave reasons for not making it on time. Responding to questions, Dlamini said the culture of excellence should not be made trivial, because it was important at national level. The PM said everyone, whether a Cabinet minister, senior official or blue collar worker, was duty-bound to always keep time.

Compromise

We must not compromise the culture of excellence in whatever we do, but promote it, he said.

Dlamini further said the lack of a culture of excellence was evident whenever a liSwati or an African employee was tasked to execute a particular job. He said this group took short cuts.

The work done through short cuts is always poorly done. The unfortunate part is that they demand the full payment at the end of the day, despite having done a shoddy job. These people forget that the Bible says do everything perfectly, as if you are doing it to the Lord, he said.

The PM said the laisez-faire shown by some emaSwati, while executing their duties, had led to some institutions hiring foreign nationals to do the job excellently. He then encouraged everyone to practice the culture of excellence in everything they did.

He said for this to happen, it was imperative to inculcate the culture of excellence in schools to guarantee national development.

The culture of excellence started a long way back in the book of Genesis, when God was busy with creation. In everything He created, He said it was good. Also, we as human beings need to be happy for everything we do with our hands, just like our Creator, he said.




The agony of losing your nearest and dearest is something we all dread.

And it seems that such pain is felt by other animals as well.

A swan named Sally has captured the hearts of schoolchildren in an apparent ritual of mourning for her dead mate.

Each day for the past 18 months, the swan has crossed a busy road to visit Telford Park secondary school in Shropshire, where she gazes for hours at her reflection in one of the windows.

The swan used to frolic with her mate, 'Harry', in Madebrook pond, on a nature reserve close to the school. But Harry is said to have died in 2022.

A swan named Sally (above) has captured the hearts of schoolchildren in an apparent ritual of mourning for her dead mate

The swan used to frolic with her mate, 'Harry', in Madebrook pond, on a nature reserve close to the school. But Harry is said to have died in 2022

Staff believe Sally's daily pilgrimage is her way of being close to her dead mate by looking at a shape that is similar in the reflection. Billy Goodall, 32, the school's business manager, told The Sunday Times: 'I guess she's lonely and doing it for comfort. The children love her. They're very respectful of her.'

According to Birdfact, a swan losing its mate causes a 'period of intense grief'  and some widowed swans may struggle to feed or preen themselves properly.

Last year, the RSPB had moved Sally to a lake, but she quickly returned to her pond.
Clothing giant H&M has been forced to pull a school uniform advert with the slogan 'make those heads turn' amid backlash, including claims it is 'sexualising' children.

The brand faced criticism over the 'Back to School fashion' advertisement, which featured two young girls wearing pinafore dresses.

Furious activists - including high-profile feminist Melinda Tankard Reist - slammed the retailer.

'@hm @hmaustralia what is your intention with this sponsored Facebook ad?' she fumed.

'Little schoolgirls generally dont want to turn heads. The large numbers I engage with in schools want to be left alone to learn and have fun.'

Psychologist Dr Pam Spurr expressed her anger in a post on X, writing: 'Your vile ad panders to paedophiles that it's OK lusting after girls. Boycott H&M. A shameful exploitation of girls.'

Another user said: 'What in the h[ell] is this. H&M sexualising children'. Meanwhile another labelled it an 'inappropriate advert' and said H&M should 'think again very quickly'.

The brand faced criticism over the 'Back to School fashion' advertisement, which featured two young girls wearing pinafore dresses

H&M was forced to apologise for 'the offense this has caused' and remove the advert

Angry shoppers threatened to boycott the brand after it ran a 'sexualised' school uniform advert

One X user added: 'The whole point of school uniforms is to stop kids using brands to shame other poorer kids, quite apart from the seedy undertones this advert has. What are H&M thinking?'

READ MORE: Balenciaga apologises for bondage-themed campaign featuring a child and excerpt from SCOTUS ruling on child abuse images Advertisement

Another welcomed the brand's apology but said the brand 'haven't yet addressed how anyone within the company came to show such appalling judgement in commissioning and signing off on it.'

The brand commented on social media: 'This ad has now been removed. We are deeply sorry for the offense this has caused and will look into how we present campaigns going forward'. H&M has also been approached for comment.

It comes after an advert for Rimmel London featuring Love Island star Lana Jenkins was banned in December.

The Facebook ad, seen on September 9, read: 'Get ready to slay this back-to-school season. Get 25% off Multi-Tasker Concealer and other Rimmel faves...'

The post included a video of 25-year-old influencer Jenkins applying make-up, with further text underneath reading: '25% off Rimmel back to school.'

Two people complained that the ad was irresponsible for including the text 'Get ready to slay this back-to-school season'.

They said it played on young girls' insecurities by implying they were only ready for a new school year if they wore make-up.

The Facebook ad, seen on September 9, read: 'Get ready to slay this back-to-school season. Get 25% off Multi-Tasker Concealer and other Rimmel faves...'

Coty UK, trading as Rimmel London, said the ad was part of its 'Back to School' campaign but 'in no way' communicated a need to wear make-up, and instead targeted women aged 18 to 35 who were interested in cosmetics, beauty, fashion and make-up.

It said the wording 'Get ready to slay this back-to-school season' was intended to motivate and build confidence, rather than prey on young girls' insecurities.

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said the words 'back-to-school season', in conjunction with the ad's vibrant pink colour scheme, books and star emojis and the fluffy pink pen held by Jenkins in the video, would primarily be understood by viewers as referring to the time of the year when students returned to senior school or sixth form college after the summer break, and would appeal to them.

The ASA said: 'We considered that the use of the word 'slay' in the claim 'Get ready to slay this back-to-school season' implied that girls or young women were more likely to succeed or do well when they went back to school if they wore make-up, in this case a concealing and contouring product.

'We considered the ad had the effect of playing on young girls' insecurities about their appearance and therefore concluded it was irresponsible.'

The ASA ruled that the ad must not appear again, adding: 'We told Coty UK, trading as Rimmel London, that they should not play on young girls' insecurities by implying that it was necessary to wear make-up to school to succeed.'
A woman has issued a dire warning to holidaymakers after a jellyfish sting left her hospitalised for a month.

Zoe Cahill, 23, was stung while swimming 50 metres from the shore at Zen Beach at Ko Pha Ngan, an island in Thailand, in October.

The Queenslander said she felt as if her body was vibrating shortly before experiencing a pain similar to 'electricity' shooting through her body.

Ms Cahill fortunately made it back to shore before she collapsed and starting turning blue when she was quickly rushed to hospital.

The sting from a box jellyfish can be incredibly painful and lead to paralysis, cardiac arrest and even death.

Queensland woman, Zoe Cahill (pictured), has recounted the month she spent in hospital after receiving numerous stings from what is suspected to have been a box jelyfish while holidaying

Ms Cahill said she remembered 15 people rushing to her aid and pouring vinegar over her stings, a known remedy that can partially neutralize a jellyfish's venom.

'I was crying I was screaming, I was just so confused as to what was happening,' Ms Cahill told 9News.

She was rushed between hospitals by speedboat before being sent to Ko Samui island to be treated by a marine toxin expert where she received antihistamine to help treat the stings.

The extent of her injuries left Ms Cahill with string-like marks across her body where the jellyfish's tentacles had coiled around her.

Photos of the injuries show some of the more affected areas had blown out into boils or scarred.

The injuries had also left her unable to walk for two weeks during her stay in hospital.

Some 15 people were stung by box jellyfish off the coast of Ko Pha Ngan between 1995 to 2015 with six dying from their injuries.

Ms Cahill was left in excruciating pain after being stung while swimming off the coast in Thailand and is now left with permeant scarring from some of the tentacles (pictured)

Some of the about 50 species of box jellyfish (pictured) are considered deadly if enough of the toxins enter the body and causing cardiac arrest.

Having since returned home from Thailand, Ms Cahill is now hoping to use her story to raise awareness about the dangers of jellyfish stings.

'I don't think many people are aware... I had no idea these types of jellyfish were so close to the island,' Ms Cahill said.

Six people, mostly children, received varying injuries from suspected jellyfish stings in the waters surrounding K'gari (Fraser Island) in just four days last week.

The suspected culprit, Irukandji jellyfish, is one of the most venomous box jellyfish species despite being about the size of a five cent coin.

Northern waters from Bundaberg in Queensland to Geraldton in Western Australia are known to have harboured the deadly jellyfish.
Melburnians were left shaking their heads at a group of 'eshays' who risked their lives by jumping on the back of a tram 'for fun'.

A video shared on Sunday shows three boys jumped onto the back of the moving route 19 tram headed to Coburg North from Elizabeth Street, in the CBD.

Commenters were shocked by their stunt with many noting the tram was in a free-ride zone, meaning they weren't trying to avoid paying a fare but were thrill-seeking.

'Not a single functioning brain cell between them,' one wrote.

'What a strange way to declare you want to be an organ donor,' another said.

Three young boys (above) were seen jumping onto the back of a moving tram on Elizabeth St, in Melbourne's CBD

'Free tram zone, suckers. Doing it for fun, not profit,' another wrote.

'I've seen this on Elizabeth St just two weeks ago. Stupid kids were crossing the road without looking, tram dings them and they punch and kick the tram, then mount the back of it. Teen violence is out of control,' a fourth commenter wrote.

'Friend of mine broke his wrist doing this. Personally Im happy to just pay the fare,' another said.

It comes less than a year after two men were filmed jumping onto the back of a tram in St Kilda in March, 2023.

Yarra Trams slammed the act as 'dangerous and foolish'.

Adults caught tram surfing can be fined up to $462 and while child face $92 fines.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Public Transport Victoria for comment.

Adults caught tram surfing (like the boys, above) can be fined up to $462 and while child face $92 fines
Police are seeking public assistance to help locate a 13-year-old girl who went missing from the Queensland city of Birkdale on January 20.

The girl was last seen leaving an address on Song Place around 6pm on Saturday and has not been seen or heard from since.

Police and family hold concerns for her welfare due to her age and she has a medical condition.

She is described as Caucasian in appearance, around 160cm tall, slim build, with long brown hair and blue eyes.

She was last seen wearing white jacket, camouflage shirt and black sandshoes.

Police are appealing to the girl, or anyone who has information about her whereabouts to call police.
A well-known Brisbane chef who worked at one of Queensland's most prestigious restaurants is seeking to have his bail conditions changed as he fights a charge of rape.

Kelvin Zachary Andrews is facing a single charge of rape, which police allege stems from an incident at an up-market hotel in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, in March last year.

On Monday, he did not appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court when his matter was briefly mentioned before Deputy Chief Magistrate Anthony Gett.

Kelvin Zachary Andrews is facing a single charge of rape, which police allege stems from an incident at an up-market hotel in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, in March last year

On Monday, he did not appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court when his matter was briefly mentioned before Deputy Chief Magistrate Anthony Gett

A lawyer acting on his behalf said a submission had been sent to the prosecutor's' office which was still being considered.

A Queensland Police prosecutor told the court legal officers had spoken to the complainant on January 17 and a two week adjournment was needed for their office to provide a response.

Mr Andrews' lawyer also asked for a further hearing to allow Mr Andrews to vary his bail.

Magistrate Gett granted the adjournment until February 5 but ordered a further bail variation hearing on February 13.

Mr Andrews was ordered to appear in person on that date.

Until his resignation in mid-2023, Mr Andrews was formerly the head chef at the luxury Fortitude Valley steakhouse SK Steak & Oyster.

He was also one of the founding members of Australian-based restaurant group STK Group, alongside co-founders by Simon Gloftis, Theo Kampolis.

Mr Andrews, 32 has not entered a formal plea to the charge.

During a previous appearance, his lawyer indicated Mr Andrews denied the charge and would contest it.
At least 91 people are dead across the U.S. as a result of an Arctic blast that put millions under winter weather advisories, but a new flooding threat is set to arrive across the southeast as temperatures rise.

More than 120 million Americans have been under winter weather alerts since Friday and the National Weather Service warned of wind chill in several states including New York, Illinois, Georgia and Louisiana at the weekend.

But as a new week begins, much of the south faces a potential of a flood warning each day, according to Fox Weather.

Parts of the Gulf Coast are expected to see 3-5 inches of rain while spots throughout southeastern Florida could be drenched by as much as 10 inches.

The region has the potential for flash flooding until at least Thursday, according to The Weather Channel, which they're calling a 'reverse in seasons' as the weather flips from freezing cold to potential record-breaking warm temperatures.

At least 91 people are dead across the U.S. as a result of an Arctic blast that put millions under winter weather advisories. Pictured: A frozen over portion of New Jersey

A person crosses in icy conditions in snow while walking over West Tennessee Street in Florence, Alabama

The continued cold weather is 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 January 14.

Another 16 deaths have been linked to the weather in Oregon, including a pregnant 21-year-old, her 15-year-old brother and boyfriend after live cables fell on their car and shocked them to death.

Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, Kentucky, Wisconsin, New York, New Jersey have also seen deaths. In total, 91 people have died due to the winter weather in January, according to CBS News.

States as far south as Texas and Florida were still gripped by deadly arctic weather Sunday. Everywhere from New Jersey to Indiana to Alabama, people were still shoveling out snow.

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.

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.

As the week begins, much of the south faces a potential of a flood warning each day

Parts of the Gulf Coast are expected to see 3-5 inches of rain while spots throughout the southeast could be drenched by as many as ten inches

The region has the potential for flash flooding until at least Thursday

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.

Much of the country will still face the potential for winter weather heading into the workweek.

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

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.

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.

People walk through New York's Central Park as snow falls during a winter storm earlier this week

Members of the Bellows Falls, Vermont, Fire Department practice cold water rescue training at Minard's Pond

The rising temperatures will be a relief to many across the country after the recent deep freeze has proved fatal.

Other areas have seen water pipes freeze in areas across the south that aren't necessarily used to the deep cold.

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.

They were 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.

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.

Customers sit inside a cafe as snow falls in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia on Friday

A sign reading 'Write in Joe Biden,' is posted in the snow outside the Acworth Congregational Church, in Acworth, New Hampshire

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, blanketed in snow and ice Thursday, as the winter thaw has affected much of the country

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)

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said on Saturday night that 28 water systems have issued boil water notices.

In Vermont, temperatures in the single digits to low teens didn't 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.

Some residents in the town of Topanga were asked to evacuate due to mudslides, NBC Los Angeles reported.

'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.'
Aussies have been urged to contact their bank immediately if they notice suspicious credit and debit card charges to 'Jet Frog' on their bank statements.

One Sydneysider said they noticed a pending transaction for $0 from the unknown organisation - even though they hadn't made a purchase.

They immediately contacted their bank ING to have their card cancelled.

Others have not been so lucky and lost up to $1,000 in future transactions after they failed to cancel their card.

While the scam has been mostly reported by social media users from the United States or Europe, several Australians have reported it has happened to them.

Aussies have been urged to check their bank accounts for unknown transactions for small amounts that precede larger, fraudulant transactions (stock image)

The transactions come from a mysterious company called 'Jet Frog' (pictured) that has previously been used to check for American and European card information in previous years

The Sydneysider who was targeted shared their experience to social media users where other Aussies have claimed it was a 'known scammer trick' that had been around for at least two years.

'Got hit with a $0.64 charge from them but I haven't been able to find any other information,' one Reddit user wrote in 2022.

Others said they were lucky to have caught the scam and had their accounts frozen before subsequent charges were made.

There is little known about the mysterious company despite being the sign that users are about to be scammed for years.

Finance Reference, an economic news website, reported the company is a 'third-party credit card processor' which means they process credit card payments for businesses who can't do so themselves.

However, further searches for the company reveal no website or business history despite being the name the behind banshee-like charges on accounts for years.

Users have reported jewellery such as necklaces costing over $1,000 being purchased with their account soon after the transaction with Jet Frog is cleared (stock image)

User claim hackers commonly use the the tactic of sending a small, indiscriminate transaction to find valid credit or debit card details to then use for a larger scam (stock image)

An Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) spokesman told Daily Mail Australia that 'Jet Frog' hasn't been named in any recent Scamwatch reports.

'Contact your bank immediately if you notice unusual activity in your bank account such as unexpected or unknown charges,' the spokesperson said.

Scamwatch found Aussies had been scammed of more than $455million from just 280,240 incidents throughout 2023.

A lion's share of which, over $275million, was due to investment scams, while the method of choice was to target victims via text message.

'If you've lost money or personal details to a scammer, you're not alone,' the ScamWatch website reads.

'Hundreds of thousands of Australians are scammed out of their money or personal information every year.

'Contact your bank or card provider immediately to report the scam. Ask them to stop any transactions.

'Once you have secured your details, you can help us try to stop the scam or to warn others by reporting the scam to us.'
The tide may have turned for employees wanting to carry on working from home - and the law is on the side of company bosses, legal experts have warned.

The changing jobs market means staff are no longer in a position of strength four years after the Covid pandemic sparked the couch-based work-life revolution.

Rising unemployment and fewer job ads mean the balance of power is shifting back into the hands of employers - and most of them want to see staff return to the office.

Now legal experts have warned most workers will be powerless to refuse if their boss lays down the law.

There are only a handful of limited legal reasons staff can give to stop being forced back into the office and mount a challenge with the Fair Work Commission.

'Not everyone can make such a request,' employment law specialist Giri Sivaraman, of Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, told Daily Mail Australia.

The tide may have turned for employees wanting to carry on working from home - and the law is on the side of company bosses, legal experts have warned.

Rising unemployment and fewer job ads mean the balance of power is shifting back into the hands of employers - and most of them want to see staff return to the office

'If employers push workers to come into the workplace, employees still have the right to make a flexible work request to work from home.

'[But] you need to fall into one of the categories of parents and carers, older workers, pregnancy, disability or experiencing family and domestic violence.

'The employer can refuse the request on reasonable business grounds.'

Under a change in the law last June, workers can now launch an appeal with the Fair Work Commission against a refusal, but must still be in one of the eligible groups.

The warning comes after job ads offering permanent or hybrid work from home conditions fell from a high of 11 per cent in April 2023 to 9.4 per cent in December.

That is still a huge rise from the pre-pandemic figure of just 1.4 per cent in February 2020, but the drop is significant and indicates a trend against working from home.

Big finance corporates like Suncorp and ANZ are using annual bonuses as a lure to get staff back to their desks or face missing out on the cash boosts.

The warning comes after job ads offering permanent or hybrid work from home conditions fell from a high of 11 per cent in April 2023 to 9.4 per cent in December

Big finance corporates like Suncorp and ANZ are using annual bonuses as a lure to get staff back to their desks or face missing out on the cash boosts (stock image)

Multinational corporates like Google and Meta have also warned staff they need to back in the office at least three days a week or face performance review consequences which could impact their promotion prospects.

Matt Cowgill, senior economist on jobs website Seek, has warned of a major 'shake-up coming in the market' in the wake of the turning tide.

'The cooling labour market likely does mean that employers have a bit more ability to try and bring people back to the office where they can,' Mr Cowgill told the ABC.

'Now that unemployment has started to rise, we have seen some job losses in December. And at Seek we've seen the number of job ads on offer fall as well.

'So that does tilt the balance a little bit back towards employers in that work-from-home equation.'

Surveys of company bosses have revealed the move to reverse the WFH trend by encouraging staff to come back to the office even just one more day a week, he said.

But he said their own research has shown the ability to work from home was still a high priority for many jobseekers.

'It continues to be something that dominates the search trends on Seek  people are out there looking for remote or hybrid jobs,' he added.

Some tech companies have seen the benefit of allowing their staff to carry on working from home, with Australian-founded giant Atlassian keen to see it continue.

Atlassian co-founder and Co-CEO Scott Farquhar (pictured with partner Kim Jackson) says the focus is too often on 'where work happens, and not enough in how it happens'

Its Team Anywhere WFH policy has allowed around 40 per cent of its staff to work remotely at least two hours or more travelling time away from Atlassian offices.

The company says the initiative has doubled the number of candidates applying for jobs with the software firm, and has come at no cost to productivity.

Atlassian co-founder and co-CEO Scott Farquhar says the focus is too often on 'where work happens, and not enough in how it happens'.

'The reality is, most businesses already work in some form of a distributed way  whether that's customers and clients in different offices, or colleagues across time zones.

'In today's global world, in-office mandates don't bring entire teams together or solve challenges rooted in archaic ways of working.

'Work is a vocation, not a location, and it's about time we recognise that. This resistance to change is based on fear, not fact.'
Nikki Haley celebrated Ron DeSantis dropping out of the presidential race with support from Judge Judy, telling a cheering crowd 'that is the sound of a two-person race.'

Judith Sheindlin, 81 - better known as Judge Judy - took to the stage to introduce and endorse Haley at a rally in a New Hampshire high school just hours after DeSantis announced his withdrawal from the White House race.

The TV judge endorsed Haley in an exclusive column on DailyMail.com last week.

The former South Carolina Governor then banned DailyMail.com reporters and photographers from all her campaign events for reporting on her alleged affairs.

'It's time for Nikki Haley, this is her moment. She is a star... This woman is the real deal,' Sheindlin said again on Sunday.

The pair shared a hug as the crowd cheered and Haley said: 'Can you hear that sound? Thats the sound of a two-person race.'

Haley was speaking hours after DeSantis dropped out of the presidential race in a surprise video where he threw his support behind Donald Trump and slammed Haley just two days before the New Hampshire primary.

Nikki Haley thanked Judge Judy for introducing her, saying: 'Shes a trailblazer. Shes tough. She speaks hard truths.'

Haley and Judge Judy embraced on stage at a rally in a high school in Exeter, New Hampshire

Judge Judy threw her support behind Nikki Haley just hours after Ron DeSantis pulled out of the race to the White House

The Florida Governor, once 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.

'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.'

The video was widely mocked for misquoting Winston Churchill.

He signed off his campaign with the quote: 'Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.' But the motivational words, which he attributed to Churchill, were never actually used by the statesman.

His withdrawal 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.

It leaves just Haley and Trump left in the race to be the Republican candidate and while Haley trails Trump in the polls, her supporters in Exeter on Sunday were still jubilant.

Sheindlin travelled from Florida to support Haley, saying: 'I travelled 1,700 miles to be with you tonight but I came because I have kids, I have grandchildren and I have a great grandchild, and I'm concerned for the future of America.

I've seen a lot of politicians come and go during my life, and I am not someone who suffers fools

Judy kissed Haley's hand as she welcomed her to the stage

Haley hugged Judge Judy as she thanked her for endorsing her

The pair embraced as Judge Judy endorsed Haley

'We are at a crossroads and for me finding the person that we can be proud of not only domestically, but on the national stage in 2024 is probably the most important decision that all of us are going to have to make.

'Nikki Haley has to be that candidate.'

Trump and Biden both came under fire from Sheindlin, who said: 'I am not necessarily here to bash the competition, although I am perfectly capable of doing that.

'Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. We've already seen what these two presidencies look like.'

Sheindlin told DailyMail.com last week: 'It takes a lot for me to support any one candidate so strongly. But Nikki Haley's integrity, intelligence, energy, and experience speak for themselves.

'And I know that she's more than ready to take on the world's toughest job as President of the United States.'

Taking the stage after Sheindlin, Haley said: 'How cool is it to have Judge Judy endorse you? It really is. Shes a trailblazer. Shes tough. She speaks hard truths. She doesnt mince words.'

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

DeSantis with his family at a campaign event the day before pulling out of the race

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump taking the stage during a campaign stop in Rochester, New Hampshire

She went on to speak about national security, recouping US land from Chinese companies and her plans to end trade relations with China until Xi Jinping's government 'stops murdering Americans'.

She said: 'Don't let Biden tell you that China's a competitor. They never saw us as a competitor: they always saw us an enemy. We've got to start looking at them they way they look at us.'

Closing her speech, she said: 'I will beat Donald Trump and Joe Biden. We can do this. Together we can do this.'

Trump, 77, has continued to slam Haley in the build-up to the primary, thanking DeSantis for his support and saying Haley's supporters are 'pro-Amnesty, pro-China, pro-Open Borders, pro-war, pro-Deep State and they're pro-Biden.'

The former president called her out for previously arguing against his border policies, and told the cheering New Hampshire crowds: 'She will never secure the border.'

Despite denying he was going to pull out on Sunday morning, DailyMail.com reported that 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 Trump, according to two sources familiar with discussions.

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

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

His aides canceled appearances on the Sunday morning shows as they debated what to do next.

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.

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 out 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.

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 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.

In her first reaction to the news, Nikki Haley said Sunday morning 'may the best woman win.'

'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, he's been a good governor and we wish him well,' Haley said. 'Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.'

In turn, DeSantis kicked Haley as he walked out the door.

He said Trump had his 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.'

Haley told CNN's Dana Bash that DeSantis didn't give her a heads up that he was leaving the race.

'No, he didn't call or inform me. And, look, this is what the fellows do,' she said, adding that she 'doesn't take politics personally.'

DeSantis supporter Dan Arlen told DailyMail.com he wasn't sure who he would now support after his candidate dropped out. But he is resigned to the prospect of a Trump-Biden rematch in 2024

A New Hampshire resident driving outside a cancelled DeSantis event on Sunday holds up a sign saying Trump belongs in 'prison' or an 'insane asylum'

DeSantis' exit turns the Republican primary race into a tussle between frontrunner Trump and underdog Haley.

She is behind Trump in the polls by double digits and facing an uphill battle to win the state she has focused on after finishing third in Iowa.

While it's not clear how the Florida Governor's bombshell decision to end his campaign will play out at the ballot box, analysts and polls have suggested it will benefit Trump.

Many DeSantis supporters are resigned to the fact it will be Trump against Biden, again, in 2024.

Republican strategist Scott Jennings told DailyMail.com: 'Trump benefits but he was already cruising to the nomination.

'Trump is dominant. He's run a textbook operation to dispatch his opponents.

'New Hampshire is the most fertile ground Haley would ever find and Trump's leading her by a decent margin.

'It doesn't get easier from there. In fact, it gets significantly harder.'

A CNN/University of New Hampshire survey released hours before the DeSantis news showed his supporters were more likely to back the former president over Haley.

The poll found 62 percent of likely New Hampshire voters who had DeSantis as their first choice would pick Trump second, while just 32 percent had Haley as their alternative.

The poll had Trump leading Haley by 11 points in the Granite State with two days until until the polls open. DeSantis was polling at just six percent before he bowed out.
MANZINI  Schools are not ready to open, according to the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT).

SNAT held a press conference yesterday along with the Eswatini Schools Committee and Parents Association (ESCAPA) at the SNAT Centre, Manzini. Present during the briefing was the ESCAPA President, Cedric Chirwa, ESCAPA Deputy President Sisana Mamba, SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini, SNAT Secretary General (SG) Lot Vilakati and SNAT Deputy SG Mxolisi Ngcamphalala. The two entities engaged, and a number of issues were raised, which they said made them conclude that schools were not ready to open tomorrow. In fact, SNAT informed teachers that they shall be on a fact-finding mission today and would update them later on.

Conclude

Among the things which the two entities claimed were the cause to conclude that schools were not ready to open tomorrow was that teachers contracts were not renewed, while also 4 000 educators were yet to be employed to fill vacant posts which were created through natural attrition, retirement and resigning from the profession. In addressing the issues, the ESCAPA president said it was critical for all stakeholders to meet before the schools opened. He said this would assist in having a list of things that needed to be addressed and review if those issues were addressed. This, he said, would yield great results at the end of the year, as there would be no excuse for shortfalls if all resources were availed. Chirwa said education was any countrys investment and needed the best attention. He said they had received news that some contract teachers were yet to be offered their 13th cheque. Chirwa said this had a negative impact on the teachers, as they were not psychologically ready to resume work.

Profession

The conditions that teachers find themselves working under are killing the profession and it is why the best learners they produce in schools want nothing to do with their trade, he said.

Chirwa said there was no security for teachers recruited on fixed term. His assertion was echoed by his deputy, who said it had always boggled her mind as to why teachers died early. She said it had now dawned on her that most were not taken care of by the employer and also worked under stressful conditions. Mamba said: Schools dont perform well because there is lack of resources and the unfortunate part is that teachers are blamed when the end-of-year results are poor.

Rhetorically, she asked how schools would function if there were no resources. Mamba said in the school where she was in the parents committee, they were disappointed to realise that the Free Primary Education (FPE) grant was not deposited. Mamba said there was only a balance of E8 000, which was left last year while on the other hand, there were reports that government had paid the grants. She said the lack of resources meant that schools had overgrown vegetation, no electricity units and other consumables. Mamba said while there was a call for permanent teachers, an artificial intelligence (AI) was introduced. She said government had rationed food from the school feeding programme due to escalating costs and wondered what shall be used in schools by head teachers to ensure that they ran them smoothly.

The only thing that is available in schools is stationery. There are no FPE grants, food and teachers. So how will they operate? she asked. Also, the SNAT President Dlamini, said they were clueless on whether schools, were ready to open tomorrow. He said what they were aware of was that schools which had been affected by the recent storms, were not fixed and the pace in attending to this was very slow. Many of these schools shall not open, as they are not ready and this will add to the teachers workload towards the end of the year, as they shall have to cover the syllabus despite that lessons were stalled by the lack of speed by government, he said.

He said the pace in recruiting teachers was also slow. Dlamini said teachers were yet to get posting letters and he encouraged those whose contracts expired not to report for duty until they were served with posting letters. Dlamini said SNAT was joining Education International and calling for the funding of quality education in public schools. He said this also meant that they shall be supporting government in ensuring that only qualified teachers were recruited.

On the other hand, the SNAT SG said they shall deem schools not ready to open tomorrow as long as 4 000 teachers have not been recruited; teachers working with fixed term contracts not having contracts ; grants not paid; schools which were destroyed by storms not fixed. Vilakati said all these issues contributed to the smooth flow of operations in schools and if they were not addressed, schools were not ready to open. On the other hand, an effort to get a comment from the Ministry of Education and Training fell through. The ministrys principal secretarys phone rang unanswered from around 3pm until 5 pm.

Also, the Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalos phone rang unanswered. At the time this article was sent for print, the minister had not responded to a questionnaire which sought to establish if schools were ready to open tomorrow. Meanwhile, SNAT shall meet government over unpaid contract teachers today, according to Vilakati, who said all unpaid contract teachers should convene at the Ministry of Education and Training at 9am today, to get answers on the issue.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is reportedly considering a significant overhaul of the promised Stage Three tax cuts, a radio host has claimed.

Mr Albanese called an urgent meeting of the Labor caucus in Canberra this week to discuss a new cost of living package.

Radio 2GB's Chris O'Keefe claimed on Monday afternoon that Mr Albanese will announce a revamp to his tax plans at the meeting.

Under the new Stage Three proposal, 'all tax payers will still receive a tax cut,' O'Keefe claimed.

Many lower and middle-income voters would be better off under the reported change. But Australians who earn more than $180,000 will be the biggest losers, with their tax cut trimmed.

The claims come despite years of assurances - some as recent as last week - that Mr Albanese's position on the tax cuts 'had not changed' since he promised to enforce them in full.

A government spokesperson reiterated to Daily Mail Australia on Monday afternoon that its position 'has not changed'.

But O'Keefe argued that the government's 'position' has been about 'reducing tax' - rather than specifically keep the Stage Three cuts in tact.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is reportedly planning to overhaul the promised Stage Three tax cuts , a radio host has claimed

Under the new plans, lower income earners would instead reportedly receive more relief in an attempt to alleviate cost of living pressures on people who are most directly feeling the pain, O'Keefe said.

Under the old Stage Three proposal first introduced by the Coalition, Australians who earned over $200,000 would receive the most tax relief - $9,075-per-year. That amount would be reduced.

The tax cuts in their current form would cost the government upwards of $300billion over the next decade. But the Morrison-era policy has not been without controversy.

Left-wing politicians and voters have demanded the government restructure the tax cuts in order to help middle and low income earners.

Meanwhile, the Opposition knows it could capitalise on Labor 'breaking election promises' if even the slightest changes were made to the policy.

Deputy Nationals leader Perin Davey confirmed as much on Monday afternoon, telling Sky News: 'If that's what the prime minister does, he will be breaking an election commitment.'

Former Deloitte economist Chris Richardson weighed in on the likelihood of changes on Monday afternoon, saying: 'Stage 3... Canberra has suddenly gone very quiet, and my spider senses are tingling.'

While the PM has repeatedly said his position on the tax cuts had not changed, he's come under increased scrutiny over recent months as speculation mounted that change could be afoot.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers reportedly 'tested the waters' about the implications of changing the Stage Three tax cuts due to begin this year

Last week Mr Albanese called out an ABC presenter for playing 'word games' with him.

'Nothing has changed, nothing has changed,' he said. 'We support reducing tax'.

Stage three tax cuts: What Aussies get under the current plan $45,000: Nothing $60,000: $375 as tax burden falls to $10,692 from $11,067 $80,000: $875 as tax burden falls to $17,192 from $18,067 $120,000: $1,875 as tax burden falls to $29,992 from $31,867 $150,000: $3,975 as tax burden falls to $39,592 from $43,567 $200,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $55,592 from $64,667 $250,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $79,092 from $88,167 $300,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $102,592 from $111,667 Tax liabilities for 2024-25 compared with 2022-23 and 2023-24 Advertisement

He told an Adelaide radio station last week: 'Tax cuts will happen in July. We're committed to that... we haven't changed our position.

But at the same time, a report surfaced from Capital Brief which revealed Treasurer Jim Chalmers' staff had, at the very least, 'tested the waters' about making changes to the policy.

The publication reported the Treasury denied a Freedom of Information Act request that sought 'modelling, analysis, estimates or correspondence between the department and the (Albanese) government relating to the impact of amending stage three on tax receipts or the budget'.

Two separate government documents, crafted between October 2022 and October 2023, were reportedly identified as relevant to the Freedom of Information search.

But the request to release them was denied due to a potential to 'prejudice to the effectiveness of the Treasurer's decision-making and deliberative processes

While these documents do not indicate the government is currently considering changes to the taxation policy, they do suggest that the government has, at some stage, contemplated what tweaking the tax cuts could look like.

A spokesperson for the Treasurer told Daily Mail Australia it is standard practice for the minister to be briefed on all aspects of the Budget and future changes.

'Its not unusual or controversial for the Treasurer to be updated on the costs of upcoming changes to the Budget,' the spokesperson said.
He barely got his foot in the door before he was murdered

Jamie Gao was tall, handsome and just 20 years old when his dreams of making it big in the underworld led to him being shot dead and dumped in the ocean.

Gao was a young man with a bright future - graduating from the selective Caringbah High School in Sydney's south and being accepted into a business degree at UTS.

But, after a friend gave him a taste of the big money and high life the drug game had to offer, he ditched university believing he could build a similar business with bigger profits and lower risk.

That fateful decision ultimately brought him to a storage unit at Padstow in Sydney's south west in May 2014, where he was murdered by two former NSW police detectives during a drug deal gone wrong.

Roger 'The Dodger' Rogerson and Glen McNamara were found guilty of Gao's murder and both received life sentences.

They stole 2.78kg of methamphetamine with a street value of up to $19million from Gao after wrapping his body in a tarpaulin and dumping it at sea.

Rogerson, Australia's most notorious corrupt cop, was also one of the NSW police force's most decorated, having received more than a dozen rewards for bravery.

He died on Sunday in Sydney's Prince of Wales hospital at the age of 83 after suffering a brain aneurysm at the Long Bay prison.

McNamara, now 64, worked as a private investigator and claimed that Gao was his informant for a true crime book he was writing on the Hong Kong Triads in Sydney.

Both men maintained their innocence and fought their sentences but ultimately lost separate appeals in the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal.

Their shocking crime has been detailed in a book titled Roger Rogerson: From Decorated Policeman to Convicted Criminal  The Inside Story, by Duncan McNab.

An extract is published below.

Drug dealer and aspiring gangster Jamie Gao was just 20 when he was shot dead during a drug deal that went wrong inside a storage unit in Padstow in Sydney's south west in May 2014

His body was found floating off the coast of Cronulla in the city's south days later

THE NEW FACE OF CRIME

The criminals that Roger Rogerson and Glen McNamara had faced in their police careers were mainly of the old school.

With a few exceptions, they were male, from poor or working-class backgrounds, had a basic education but not the opportunity for university or even six years of high school.

Many came from families who'd been involved in crime for generations. They were shoplifters, housebreakers, car thieves, armed robbers and safebreakers, who learned their trade through mentoring.

Their jobs were risky, the money was sometimes dismal, and the chance of being caught was high.

Prison was a paid holiday and a chance to network and get some professional development. The irony of getting it from someone who'd been convicted escaped them.

The contemporary breed of criminals is very different. They're enticed into a business dominated by drugs like ice and cocaine, where the profits are staggering and the risk low.

Most finish high school and many have gone on to university - a finance or law degree are great sales tools if you're looking at entering a life of crime rather than the 'straight' world.

Unlike the older crims, they don't factor in getting caught, and many don't quite understand the dangers and brutality of the world they're entering.

Jamie Gao was one of these young men.

As he'd find out in 2014, a life of crime wasn't like the one he'd seen so often in the Hong Kong action films he and his mates loved.

Heavily decorated former NSW detective Roger 'the dodger' Rogerson was found guilty for Gao's murder and died in prison at the age of 83 after suffering a brain aneurysm

Rogerson was aided by fellow disgraced NSW detective Glen McNamara who worked as a private investigator and claimed that Gao was his informant for his next true crime book

Jamie's family was well-to-do middle class, originally from Hong Kong. He'd grown up with his mother and grandmother in their large family home in a quiet street in Hurstville.

It wasn't a flash home, but it was obvious the Gaos weren't short of a quid.

Jamie went to Caringbah High School, one of the state's selective schools that, according to the NSW Department of Education, 'cater for gifted and talented students who have superior to very superior academic ability which is matched by exceptionally high classroom performance'.

Jamie was a tall, handsome lithe young man with long black hair that swept over his face. He was charismatic, funny and had an edge that made him stand out from his studious mates.

As Sydney crime writer and former detective P.M. (Pam) Newton wrote of Jamie in The Drum on 28 May 2014, 'It's the face that stays with you. The photo of the bright, beautiful boy, with the funky haircut, the shiny smile.'

And as Newton observed, 'Sydney's underworld isn't glamorous  it's cruel.'

Jamie didn't have Newton's insight, nor does it seem he did any research on the two older men he'd encounter just after his twentieth birthday.

Gao's family was well-to-do middle class and lived in a quiet street in Hurstville. He went to Caringbah High School, a school known for its student's 'superior academic ability'

At school Jamie had a close group of mates, and following the HSC they went on to university and stayed close.

For Jamie, his higher education was a business degree at UTS, located near Sydney's Chinatown.

One of Jamie's friends, Bing-Jie (known as BJ) Wang, was Jamie's ticket into the underworld.

Around late 2011, Wang was working as a drug dealer, pulling in big money and living the life that Jamie wanted.

BJ and his cohorts, the Lam brothers, ran a drug ring that was likely to be affiliated with one of the Hong Kong Triads, but they were clumsy.

They talked openly of their business on mobile phones and handled the packages of drugs without the sense to use gloves, thus leaving fingerprints and DNA evidence.

Their stupidity resulted in them being arrested in May 2012 for drug trafficking, but the arrest of his friends didn't deter Jamie Gao.

Instead of learning that crime was a dangerous business, by being arrested and also risking offending brutal gangs such as the Triad  he went the other way.

He believed that he was smarter and could build a similar business with greater profit potential and less risk of being caught.

It's likely Gao's relationship with Wang also put him on police radar.

Around late 2011, one of Gao's university friends was working as a drug dealer, pulling in big money and living the life that Jamie wanted

The Daily Telegraph on 31 May 2014 reported the AFP had been interested in him from around late 2011 because of his connection to drug importations.

One legal source told me Jamie had also come to police attention because of a few deals he'd done with large numbers of cheap mobile phones used for pay-as-you-go customers  popular in the drug trafficking business for single use then discarded, thus making electronic surveillance difficult.

Police also confirmed they were looking at links between Jamie and casino high roller Peter Hoang who was shot dead at Croydon Park on 7 September 2014, and the former Bakers Delight franchise holder Paul Nguyen, who went missing on 1 May 2014.

Police were suspicious the three were involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.

In early 2014, Jamie met Misaki Takebayashi who was from Japan and studying at UTS. Misaki had rudimentary English and even less Cantonese and Mandarin, but the two fell fast for each other.

However, while she knew her boyfriend had interests other than study and her, she had no idea of his growing involvement with drug trafficking.

Jamie had his first direct brush with police when he was arrested for unlawfully detaining 19-year-old student Jaiwei Yu, and assaulting him causing actual bodily harm.

Gao and two other young men went to Yu's home unit in Sydney's Carlton, allegedly to sort out one of Yu's flatmates, Alex Li, over his bust-up with a girlfriend.

Yu said the girl had wanted revenge and Jamie had taken on the job as standover man and punisher.

Unfortunately for Yu, Alex wasn't home at the time, so Gao decided Yu would do.

The three men took the slightly built man out to their car, manhandled him into the boot, took him for a brisk drive around, and finally stopped at a park where he was unloaded, and taken into the park where Jamie punched him in the mouth.

The three left him.

Unfortunately for Jamie and his crew, Yu and Li weren't intimidated and went to the police. Gao was arrested on 22 March and faced his first time in court on a criminal charge at Kogarah court on 15 April 2014.

The case was later adjourned to 10 July and then withdrawn, because by then Jamie was dead.

Gao had just gotten his foot in the door of organised crime when he ran into his first trouble with the law but before any charges could be laid he had already been murdered

Another lawyer source told me the incident with Yu wasn't Jamie's only standover venture, telling me he'd kidnapped and assaulted a Sydney businessman over a debt.

The police had also visited Jamie's home in early 2014 with a search warrant looking for drugs, but the visit hadn't resulted in charges.

His mother Katherine said in a statement, 'Since the drug search with the police I would talk to Jamie about drugs and he told me he wouldn't do that. He was cranky that he was involved in this and kept saying that the police always have eyes on him and that he hasn't done anything wrong.'

In late February Jamie flew to Hong Kong where he caught up with a mix of Sydney and Hong Kong friends and relatives, and allegedly with Triad connections made probably through BJ and the Lams.

Duncan Mcnab writes in his book how Gao was lured into a life of crime after seeing one of his uni friends reaping the benefits of the gangster life

It was on this trip Jamie was likely to have started work on the deal that would eventually lead to his murder.

The original deal he put to the alleged Triad heavies was 10 kilograms of ice on credit, with payment in full as soon as it was sold.

Jamie, by that stage well entrenched with the Rogerson/McNamara team, had a tantalising opportunity for the Triads  access to the outlaw bikers and their distribution networks.

The bikers didn't mind where the product came from so long as it was of good quality, and for the Hong Kong criminals, traditionally insular in who they dealt with, it was an opportunity to plug into Australia's most successful distributors.

It was a win for everyone  in theory.

However, the Triad heavies had generations of experience behind them and decided that while they'd risk a shipment to a new network, the risk would only be three kilograms.

If that deal worked to their satisfaction, then the amount would increase. Jamie didn't have a choice and readily agreed.

The Hong Kong connection would arrange for the drugs to be couriered to Sydney from their sources in mainland China and delivered to Jamie.

Two trusted Triad henchmen would be sent to Australia to keep an eye on Jamie and the deal. Gao's likely involvement in organised crime was why the NSW Police Robbery and Serious Crime Squad became involved when his disappearance was finally reported.

This is an edited extract from Roger Rogerson: From Decorated Policeman to Convicted Criminal  The Inside Story, by Duncan McNab, RRP $22.99, Hachette Australia, available now
A swimmer has been pulled from the surf at one of Sydney's major beaches.

Paramedics rushed to Maroubra Beach at about 1.30pm on Monday after witnesses reported seeing a man in his 20s struggling in the water.

The man was swimming with two friends when the group got caught in a rip before bystanders were able to get to them.

Paramedics responded to reports of a man being pulled from the surf at Maroubra Beach in Sydney on Monday afternoon

It is believed that bystanders pulled the man from the water and attempted CPR before ambulances arrived and provided further treatment

The man, who is in his 20s, was rushed to Prince of Wales Hospital in an unknown condition

Surf Life Saving NSW said that the man was unconscious when lifesavers pulled him from the water and began performing CPR.

'Lifeguards and paramedics performed CPR before he began breathing again and regained a pulse,' Surf Life Saving NSW said.

'He left the beach, still unconscious, by ambulance.'

Paramedics rushed the man to Prince of Wales Hospital where he is now in a stable condition.

Maroubra Beach is referred to as 'one of Sydneys most hazardous' by Beachsafe.

More to come.
Lawyers representing Wallabies star Kurtley Beale say CCTV video from the night of an alleged sexual assault is 'at odds' with some claims from the alleged victim.

Beale, 35, pleaded not guilty at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court late last year to sexual intercourse without consent, and two counts of sexual touching.

Police allege the former NSW Waratahs star forced a 28-year-old woman to have oral sex with him in the toilets of Bondi's Beach Road bar on December 18, 2022.

Beale is alleged to have also earlier sexually touched the woman minutes before midnight on December 17 while at the bar, which police say was not consented to.

Defence barrister Margaret Cunneen SC told the jury during empanelment on Monday they needed to keep their mind's open despite Beale's status as a sport star.

Kurtley Beale (pictured), 35, pleaded not guilty at Sydney 's Downing Centre Local Court late last year to sexual intercourse without consent, and two counts of sexual touching at the Beach Road bar in Bondi (pictured below)

'There are some people in the community who hear an allegation against a man... and think well, he's a sportsman, he must have done it. He's guilty,' she said.

'We need people who can act as judges for a time and decide just on the evidence in this case, not because they've formed views in other cases about other men.

'It has to be decided on the evidence in this case, and not because of any thoughts about what has happened with other sportsmen or other men.'

Ms Cunneen told the jury CCTV footage from the bar, which the jury is expected to be shown, was 'at odds' with some of the woman's claims.

Beale arrives at court on Monday with his wife Maddi

'We have evidence the woman who makes these accusations followed Mr Beale into the toilet and not the other way around,' Ms Cunneen told the court.

'There's two cases - we need people with an open mind, we just ask that you keep an open mind until all of the evidence is in this trial.'

Crown prosecutor Jeff Tunks told jurors Beale had allegedly 'placed his penis in (the woman's) mouth while in the cubicle of the men's bathroom'.

Of 54 potential jurors, 12 were selected for the trial before Justice Graham Turnbull at the Sydney court. They include seven women and five men.
Relatives of Israelis held hostage by Hamas stormed a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem today, demanding that the lawmakers do more to try to free their loved ones.

The action by about 20 people signalled growing domestic dissent in the fourth month of the Gaza war.

One woman held up pictures of three family members who were among the 253 people seized in the cross-border Hamas rampage of October 7 that triggered the worst fighting in decades.

Some 130 remain held in Gaza after others were brought home in a November truce.

'Just one I'd like to get back alive, one out of three!' the woman protester cried after pushing into the Knesset Finance Committee discussion.

Other protesters, clad in black T-shirts, held up signs reading: 'You will not sit here while they die there. Get up from your chairs.

'Release them now, now, now!' they chanted.

The storming of the Knesset came after a top Hamas official declared there is now 'no chance' that hostages held in Gaza will return to their families.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday resolutely rejected conditions presented by Hamas to end the war - a release of all hostages in return for a total military withdrawal from Gaza by the IDF, and Hamas maintaining power.

A fire rages at sunrise in Khan Younis following an Israeli airstrike on targets in the southern Gaza strip

About 20 people stormed the Knesset today, signalled growing domestic dissent in the fourth month of the Gaza war

Protesters held up signs and chanted slogans in parliamentary session

The storming of the Knesset came after a top Hamas official declared there is now 'no chance' that hostages held in Gaza will return to their families

Israeli army flares illuminate the sky over Gaza City during Israeli operation in the northern Gaza Strip, 20 January 2024

This photograph taken on January 22, 2024 from Rafah, shows smoke billowing during Israeli bombardment over Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected terms presented by Hamas to end the war

'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.

'I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas,' he retorted bluntly.

Hours later, senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri said the Israeli leader's refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza 'means there is no chance for the return of the (Israeli) captives.'

It comes as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said over the weekend that more than 25,000 Palestinians had perished in Israeli strikes since October 7, triggering anti-war protests in cities worldwide.

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 October 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 of the 136 hostages who remain in captivity.

A horde of protesters camped outside the Israeli Prime Minister's residence over the weekend, chanting slogans and holding up placards with the faces of dozens of hostages still stuck in the clutches of Hamas.

A person holds a placard, as families of hostages and supporters protest outside Netanyahu's house

Families of hostages and supporters hold banners during a protest to call for the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the deadly October 7 attack

A person holds a placard, as families of hostages and supporters protest to call for the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the deadly October 7 attack by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, outside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu residence, in Jerusalem January 21, 2024

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 also 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.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Friday he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for the creation of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a non-militarised government.

'There are a number of types of two-state solutions,' he said.

'There's a number of countries that are members of the UN that... don't have their own militaries,' Biden told reporters after an event at the White House.

But senior Hamas official on Saturday dismissed Biden's comments, labelling him complicit in the 'genocide' of Palestinians.

This photograph taken on January 22, 2024 from Rafah, shows smoke billowing during Israeli bombardment over Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip

Displaced Palestinians, living in tents, struggle with cold weather under limited means and difficult conditions in Khan Yunis, Gaza on January 22, 2024

Relatives of Israeli hostages carrying photographs and banners, set up tents in front of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's house to protest the Israeli government and demanding an immediate hostage deal in Jerusalem on January 21, 2024

Relatives of Israeli hostages carrying photographs and banners, set up tents in front of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's house

President Joe Biden said on Friday he'd spoken with Netanyahu about the possibility of a two-state solution

Smoke in the sky over Gaza City during Israeli operations in the northern Gaza Strip, 20 January 2024

'The illusion that Biden is preaching about a state of Palestine and its characteristics does not fool our people,' Izzat al-Rishq, a member of the Islamist group's political bureau, said in a statement.

'Biden is a full partner in the genocidal war and our people do not expect any good from him.'

Hours later, Netanyahu also pushed back against Biden's remarks about Palestinian statehood after the war against Hamas in Gaza ends.

'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,' Netanyahu's office said in a statement issued on Saturday.

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.
Ofsted school inspections restart today after a two-week pause was given to lead inspectors for mental health awareness training.

The training was ordered in the wake of head teacher Ruth Perry's suicide, after a coroner ruled last month that an inspection had 'contributed' to her death.

Sir Martyn Oliver, Ofsted's new chief inspector, said 'such tragedies should never happen again'.

Head teachers, academy trusts and local authorities can now ask for an inspection to be paused.

Mrs Perry took her own life in January 2023 after an Ofsted report downgraded the school she led for more than a decade, Caversham Primary in Reading, from the highest grade to the lowest.

The training was ordered in the wake of head teacher Ruth Perry's suicide, after a coroner ruled last month that an inspection had contributed to her death

Sir Martyn Oliver, Ofsted's new chief inspector, said 'such tragedies should never happen again

Ms Perry took her own life last January after an Ofsted report downgraded the school she led for more than a decade, Caversham Primary in Reading, from the highest grade to the lowest

Heidi Connor, the senior coroner at Ms Perry's inquest, issued 'prevention of future deaths notice' to Ofsted which listed a series of issues for it to address, leading unions to call for all school inspections to be halted.

The changes introduced by the school inspectors include a policy where an inspection can be paused usually until the next day, but it could be for up to five working days in exceptional circumstances.

READ MORE: Heartbreaking notes written by headteacher Ruth Perry reveal her despair as Ofsted chief apologises Advertisement

Head teachers can also now complain about an inspection to a national hotline and all inspectors must have completed mental health training before they lead an inspection.

Inspectors will contact schools which are due a visit from them this week to discuss the new changes.

An inquest had ruled that Mrs Perry took her own life after the watchdog downgraded her primary school from 'outstanding' to 'inadequate'.

An independent expert will be appointed to lead a learning review of Ofsted's response to the head teacher's death.

Over the next three months, Ofsted will also explore having safeguarding as a standalone judgement, rather than part of the leadership and management grade.

The headteacher was left 'completely devastated' in the weeks following the watchdog's 'intimidating' inspection into Caversham Primary School in Reading last year, following safeguarding concerns, the coroner heard.

Speaking to the BBC at the start of January, Sir Martyn said Ofsted could have been 'far more empathetic' in the wake of Ms Perry's death.

Calling her death a 'terrible tragedy and a real shock', he said: 'Ultimately we have to be about high standards and say to parents 'these are the standards that are being provided'. But I think we can do that in a way that is far more empathetic.'

An inquest had ruled that Ms Perry took her own life after the watchdog downgraded her primary school from 'outstanding' to 'inadequate'

Julia Waters, sister of Ruth Perry, with other family members speaking in Reading Town Hall at the end of the inquest for the headteacher

Teachers at Oasis Academy, on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, went on strike in November over intolerable pupil behaviour including threats of sexual violence against female staff

Asked about Ofsted's response, Sir Martyn added: 'I don't think it went far enough, and I'm quite clear on that.

'There's clearly been a lot of criticism and we must accept that criticism in order to have a fresh start and move on.'

Speaking on behalf of Mrs Perry's family after the verdict, sister Professor Julia Waters said: 'Ruth was more than a victim of an inhumane schools inspection system. She was more than a headteacher. Ruth was a wonderful human being.

'Ruth's death has left a deep void in our lives. We all miss her deeply. We miss her every day.'

She continued: 'The Coroner's conclusions validate what our family has known for a long time  that Ruth took her own life as the direct result of the process, outcome and consequences of an Ofsted inspection of the school she led and loved, Caversham Primary School.

'The inquest into Ruth's death has shown the brutal inhumanity of the system of Ofsted inspections. Ofsted likes to judge people with single-word labels. We could judge the current Ofsted system with our own labels: callous, perverse and inhumane.

'Ruth's death, and this inquest, have laid bare the imbalance of power that exists in our education system.'

Last week, MailOnline revealed Teacher's horror stories of violent attacks by pupils leaving them too scared to go into school - after Sir Martyn warned behaviour at some schools had become so bad that staff were locking themselves in classrooms.

The head of Ofsted said he has experienced some of the 'most broken' schools in the country where corridors had become 'no go zones' for adults.

He said that pupil behaviour was 'certainly a challenge' in many schools but that he was well-placed to help turn them around.

Teachers at Oasis Academy, on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, went on strike in November over intolerable pupil behaviour including threats of sexual violence against female staff.

Just weeks before, maths teacher Jamie Sansom was stabbed in the stomach by a 15-year-old pupil at Tewkesbury Academy in Gloucestershire.
Flights across Britain are in chaos today as Storm Isha's 100mph gales and heavy downpours battered the country.

Planes have been grounded, with flights bound for Britain and Ireland forced to divert to mainland Europe instead.

Flightradar data shows how a Ryanair flight from Tenerife bound for Dublin was diverted to France, while another plane headed for Scotland was rerouted to Germany as winds struck the country.

Twitter/X users shared memes in response to the diversions, with one writing: 'Flew from Manchester to Dublin today, only we didn't land in Dublin, or back to Manchester. Bonjour from Paris!'

Many discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK

Many Brits discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK, with one plane heading to Dublin ending up in Paris

A plane heading to Dublin from Manchester took 11 hours and flew in a circle. It circled Dublin, then diverted to Belfast, before heading back and landing in Liverpool. Normally it is a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport after their flights were cancelled

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm

Flight cancellations: Heathrow Airport : One Air to Frankfurt - 8:00

British Airways to Amsterdam - 8:25

British Airways to Copenhagen - 8:40

KLM to Amsterdam - 8:40

Air Canada to Halifax - 9:00

British Airways to Dallas - 10:40

British Airways to Milan - 11:40

British Airways to Paris - 13:05

TAP Air Portugal to Lisbon - 13:40

British Airways to Aberdeen - 14:20

British Airways to Jersey - 14:30

British Airways to Geneva - 15:05

British Airways to Manchester - 17:30 Gatwick Airport: British Airways to London City Airport - 8:35

Ryanair to Dublin - 9:00

British Airways to Glasgow - 10:20

British Airways to London City Airport - 13:10

British Airways to London City Airport - 13:20

Ryanair to Dublin - 17:35 London Stansted Airport: British Airways to London - 10:30

British Airways to London - 12:00 Bristol Airport: KLM to Amsterdam - 9:00

Barcelona - 12:15 Edinburgh Airport: British Airways to London - 10:50

Ryanair to Dublin - 12:15 Dublin Airport: Ryanair to Liverpool - 8:50

Ryanair to Kerry - 9:05

Ryanair to Edinburgh - 10:45

Aer Lingus to Donegal - 11:40

Ryanair to Rome - 15:00

Ryanair to London - 15:40

Ryanair to Birmingham - 15:40 Birmingham Airport: KLM to Amsterdam - 9:20

Ryanair to Dublin - 19:25 Manchester Airport: KLM to Amsterdam - 9:06

British Airways to London - 19:25 Glasgow International Airport: British Airway to London - 8:40

British Airways to London - 12:45 Leeds Bradford Airport: Aer Lingus to Belfast - 8:50

Aer Lingus to Dublin - 8:55

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Passengers were left stranded 500 miles away from their intended destination after their Manchester to Dublin flight was forced to divert to Paris as the storm rolled in on Sunday.

The flight, which was initially due to land at Dublin International Airport at around 3.30pm, was already delayed by an hour when leaving Manchester Airport on Sunday afternoon.

However, due to 'dangerous' winds, the plane was forced to circle over the Irish Sea multiple times before aborting its landing and instead flying to Paris Beauvais-Tille Airport, landing shortly before 5.30pm.

Dublin International Airport had already issued a public warning about possible flight cancellations, delays and a stream of aborted landings, with numerous other flights diverting to Manchester and other airports across the country.

Two hours later, at 7.30pm, one passenger on board the Ryanair flight said those on board were still stuck on the runway in Paris.

A flight from Copenhagen to Dublin was also diverted to Manchester yesterday.

It took off at 5:15pm last night, circled near Dublin before being diverted to Belfast and headed back to Manchester - but actually landed at the John Lennon Airport in Liverpool instead.

According to Flightradar data, this took 11 hours. It is normally a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin.

Another passenger who boarded a flight at Edinburgh yesterday for a one hour flight to Bristol said she ended up in Paris.

Kim Woodcock, 67, and the other passengers waited on the tarmac for four hours and those with a passport eventually went to hotels.

But those who didn't - around 50 - had to sleep in the departure lounge instead.

They were given a tuna sandwich each and a bottle of water but no hot food or drinks.

Ms Woodcock spent the night sleeping on the floor, using her bag as a pillow.

She told MailOnline: 'I'm exhausted, it's been really difficult. I was hoping to be home at 5pm last night for a roast dinner!'

She said she is still currently waiting in Paris for a return flight to the UK, expected to depart this afternoon.

Despite the disruption, many found the funny side of things and very soon hundreds of memes about the odd destinations of the flights were circulating on social media.

The 100mph gales and heavy downpours barrelled down on the nation overnight, with many flights trying to come into the country facing a shaky landing.

A flight travelling from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow Airport declared an emergency due to Storm Isha.

A spokesperson for Glasgow Airport said the TUI flight was 'diverted to Manchester due to current weather conditions'.

A British Airways flight on its way from Ibiza to London City Airport was among the scores of passenger aircraft which were forced to divert as winds of up to 90mph hit the UK.

Nervous passengers erupted into applause after their diverted plane made a shaky landing during powerful winds.

A holidaymaker shared a video on X showing the bumpy ride as the plane came into land at Gatwick, before the cabin erupted into applause and cheers for the captain, with one grateful passenger heard shouting 'Go on geezer!'

There was also applause for the captain of an Alicante to Edinburgh flight, who managed to land their Jet2 plane despite dramatic crosswinds.

Travel chaos also hit Scotland amid 'tornado watch' warnings and amber weather alerts, with luggage filmed being blown across the runway at Edinburgh Airport.

A number of other flights were forced to divert to other airports due to Storm Isha winds on Sunday, with a haul of other flights cancelled from UK airports, including Manchester.

But some travellers were furious when Ryanair revealed its overnight accommodation plans for them.

A Ryanair spokesperson said: 'Due to Storm Isha, some flights to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday and today have regrettably been cancelled/delayed.

'We are working hard to reaccommodate affected passengers and advise all passengers due to travel to/from the UK or Ireland today to check their Ryanair app for the latest updates on their flight.

'Ryanair sincerely apologises to all passengers affected by these storm-related disruptions, which are entirely beyond our control and have impacted all airlines operating to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday/today.'

Passengers hoping for news of their flights during the bad weather conditions in Leeds

A large hall is pictured with a metal roof housed rows of camping beds with yellow foil blankets for people to sleep on for Ryanair travellers

Passengers had to spend the night at Tille Airport after their flight from Faro was diverted

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats

Posting a photo and video on X, one customer said: 'This is your excuse for overnight accommodation when a flight is rerouted. Absolutely disgraceful.'

A large hall with a metal roof housed rows of camping beds with yellow foil blankets for people to sleep on.

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm.

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats.

An Easyjet flight which took off from Edinburgh yesterday afternoon circled Bristol 'for some time' before the pilot was forced to change route and land in Paris instead.

Tom Shepard, 39, told BristolLive that he and the other passengers had to wait on the tarmac for three hours while staff debated whether to try and fly back to Bristol to see if the wind had lessened.

He said: 'We though the pilot was joking at first. We couldn't believe there was no other airport in the UK that we could land at.'

Another flight which was coming from Lanzarote to Dublin was diverted, ending up in Bordeaux, France instead.

Passengers queuing at Heathrow Airport, London, amid delays and cancellations

Many travellers were left waiting with piles of luggage for their flights at Heathrow Airport

Crowds gathered in Dublin airport after flights were cancelled due to Storm Isha last night, which saw flights diverted away from Ireland

Stranded passengers were left fuming in Cologne Airport, Germany, when four flights to Edinburgh were diverted due to the storm.

One person posted on X that they had been promised hotel rooms but were left sleeping on the floor.

A number of Edinburgh-bound flights were forced to divert to Germany's Cologne Bonn Airport - over 550 miles away.

A total of 10 flights bound for Glasgow Airport diverted to airports including Glasgow Prestwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool and London Stansted on Sunday.

This morning a rare red warning came into effect for Scotland, with alerts that some areas could see wind speeds of 100mph causing a 'danger to life'.

The Met Office is warning people not to go outside and to shelter in place as the storm brings life-threatening winds, with the potential for flying debris and roofs blown off.

Andy Giles was due to fly from Newquay, Cornwall, to Faro in Portugal on Sunday afternoon.

But Mr Giles, from Looe, Cornwall, said: 'The flight was diverted to Stansted because of the weather.

'We were told to jump on a bus to go to Stansted to catch the plane up.

'Six-and-half hours later and we arrived at Stansted at 12.15am this morning and we are still waiting.

'We're still here. We've been here all night with no sleep because they said if you go to sleep and miss the email, you miss the flight and you won't get there.

Mr Giles, who is working in Portugal, said 31 passengers chose to travel to Stansted but some people went home rather than face the long bus trip.

He said they were given food vouchers at Newquay which were not redeemable at Stansted.

Travellers were forced to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets in Tille

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, spent the night in Tille Aiport

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, had to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets after their Ryanair flight from Faro to East Midlands Airport (EMA) was diverted to Tille, France.

Their flight spent half-an-hour hovering over EMA before it was diverted to Tille because it was too dangerous to try to land.

The warehouse team leader, from Leicester, told MailOnline: 'When we got to Faro Airport we had a weather alert from Ryanair saying there was bad weather at home but we didn't expect it to be as bad as this.

READ MORE - Moment passengers erupt into applause after diverted plane makes shaky landing at Gatwick Airport - as Storm Isha sends suitcases blowing across the tarmac Advertisement

'We were in the air for about four hours and when we got to Tille at 10pm it was a bit of a shambles. The airport didn't have enough camp beds, so my mother and I had to sleep on metal chairs and it was freezing, so we got no sleep.

'The airport was handing out bottles of water but my mother and I had to share one between two of us.'

Mr Ely and Ms Buckby finally landed at EMA this morning, roughly 16 hours after they left Faro.

He said: 'I wish they had just left us in Faro so we could spend an extra night there because now I've had no sleep. I've had to pay for an Uber home because my husband couldn't pick us up at the airport and I've had to take today off work.'

The passengers were given free boarding cards for the flight, but Mr Ely claims he hasn't received any messages from Ryanair about further compensation passengers might expect to receive.

In a statement, Ryanair said: 'The mother and son had flown to the Algarve for a long weekend and the holiday was Mr Ely's Christmas present to his mother. He said: 'Overall, the holiday was lovely just didn't have a very nice end to it!'

Many found the funny side of things and posted memes to social media

At Leeds Bradford Airport, three departing flights have been cancelled today and some are delayed by over six hours.

Winds reached 50mph overnight in the city, but are expected to drop to 40mph later today.

The Met Office has weather warnings in place covering the entirety of Britain heading into early Monday morning.

The most serious of these is a rare red warning for wind, which is in place in northern Scotland between 1am and 5am, as meteorologists predict gusts of 90 to 100mph.

The warning covers Thurso and Wick to the north, Fraserburgh and Peterhead to the east and goes as far west as Cromarty and Nairn.

The Met Office said there winds would bring a 'risk of damage, disruption and a danger to life', with flying debris, large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes.

There could be damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, as well as power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Amber warnings for wind cover most of the rest of Britain, aside from London and East Anglia, where a yellow warning is place.
Man was with a group of friends

A man has fallen to his death at a popular waterfall.

He was with a group of friends at the Minnehaha Falls in Katoomba, in Sydneys Blue Mountains, about 1.30pm on Monday, when the tragedy unfolded.

Police officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command, Police Rescue and paramedics rushed to the scene and found the man with serious injuries.

He was unable to be saved and died at the scene.

Initially a helicopter had been called to the location but was cancelled after the patient could not be saved.

The man was with a group of friends at the Minnehaha Falls in Katoomba, in Sydneys Blue Mountains, about 1.30pm on Monday, when the tragedy unfolded

Police officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command, Police Rescue and paramedics rushed to the scene and found the man with serious injuries

The victim has not been formally identified.

Inquiries into the incident are ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

Minnehaha Falls are just over 100km west of Sydney and has been labelled a 'must-visit' for tourists due to its views and 'impressive' swimming hole.

The popular selfie spot can only be accessed by a walking track 20 minutes from the carpark.

It is understood parking spots are hard to obtain during summer.
A much-loved 16-year-old army cadet sergeant has been remembered as a 'beautiful, kind soul' after suddenly passing away.

Perth schoolboy Liam Grant, who celebrated his 16th birthday on December 26, 'unexpectedly passed away' on Friday.

His mother, Kelly Ann, described her son as the 'brightest star in the sky' and said his death had left their family completely 'grief stricken'.

'Time stopped forever 19th January 2024 and will never move forward. Ever!', Ms Grant wrote on social media.

Perth schoolboy Liam Grant (pictured), who celebrated his 16th birthday on December 26, 'unexpectedly passed away' on Friday

Liam (pictured) was promoted to the rank of cadet sergeant after a nine-day intensive training course last July

'It would've been then just 24 days ago we celebrated your 16th birthday, just days ago we picked up your car.... we have plans, so many fun things ahead and then in a blink of an eye it all changed our amazing boy Liam Grant passed away.'

She added: 'Tell us it's not true. Wake us from this hell torturous place I have no more words to give.'

Liam was promoted to the rank of cadet sergeant after a nine-day intensive training course last July.

On 30 December, his parents surprised him with his first car.

His final post on Instagram came two days later when he shared pictures with his schoolmates and expressed gratitude for 'all the friends I made along the way'.

Tributes poured in on social media, with one describing him as a 'beautiful, kind soul' and an 'absolute diamond'.

'Liam was the most amazing caring, generous, sensitive, smart, sensible gentleman. Its just shattering,' wrote another.

A GoFundMe page, set up by a family friend to raise funds to help cover his funeral, memorial services and other expenses, has so far raised over $19,000.
A man driving on bare rims has been arrested, with police finding the dangerous drug Fentanyl in his pocket.

Police received reports of a silver Honda Jazz running red lights and driving recklessly around Sydney's south-west at 5:43am on January 19.

By the time police located the car, the front tyre had been shredded from the rim and sparks were flying from underneath while the car was in motion.

The 68-year-old driver was presented with a roadside breath test which came back negative, but a search uncovered the powerful opioid drug and he was taken for further testing.

Police arrested a 68-year-old man who was driving around Sydney's south-west on exposed rims with fentanyl in his pocket

The Ermington man was finally caught after several sightings near the Hume Highway in Greenacre and then Parramatta Road in Haberfield.

A NSW Police spokesperson said that the incident was a 'catastrophe waiting to happen'.

'Police made observations and formed the opinion that he was under the effect of drugs,' the spokesperson said.

'He was placed under arrest for the purpose of obtaining a blood and urine sample to determine the level of impairment.'

After searching the man police found the prescription drug 'Fentanyl' in his right pants pocket.

He was taken to Royal Princes Alfred Hospital under police guard and has had his car defected and keys confiscated.

Police will await for the results of the blood and urine samples before taking further action.
5 killed in Boko Haram raids in Cameroon

Yaounde, Jan 21 (UNI) At least five people were killed after the terror group, Boko Haram, raided two civilian communities in Cameroon's Far North region, local and security sources said on Sunday.

The militants raided Ldubam Bah village of the region at about 7 p.m. on Saturday, killing four civilians, a security source in the region told Xinhua.

At about 8 p.m. on the same day, the militants attacked Mavoumai village of the region, killing one person and injuring a girl, the source said.
Have you been affected by the scandal? Contact frankie.elliott@mailonline.co.uk

Victims of the infected blood scandal have called for a TV drama to highlight their heartbreaking stories after ITV's Mr Bates vs the Post Office rallied the nation over the Horizon miscarriage of justice.

The infection scandal saw thousands of patients infected with HIV and hepatitis C through contaminated blood products in the 1970s and 1980s.

Compensation payments to victims and their families could reportedly cost between 5billion to 22billion.

But with many yet to receive any money and the outcome of the inquiry delayed until May, victims' families are hoping that a TV drama could be made to bring awareness to the case.

Des Collins, the senior partner at Collins Solicitors, which represents 1,037 infected and affected individuals, said TV shows are effective in 'propelling' scandals back into the national spotlight.

He told Good Morning Britain: 'I think it has been propelled back to centre stage and it needed to propel back to centre stage. For years, the post office workers could never get any traction on their case. They wondered when would anyone listen to them and it was that ITV programme that did it.'

Louise Huxley, who brother Peter tested positive for Hep C and died of liver cancer following a blood transfusion in 1985, shared her traumatic story on Good Morning Britain today.

Peter was informed 10 tears after the transfusion that the blood he was given may have been contaminated

Now, those affected are hoping for a similar TV drama to that given to the Post Office scandal, which sparked nationwide outrage over what has been described as one of the most widespread miscarriages of justice in British history

Louise Huxley, whose brother Peter tested positive for hepatitis C and died of liver cancer following a blood transfusion in 1985, also shared her traumatic story on GMB today.

READ MORE: Ministers face Commons defeat on push to create immediate compensation scheme for infected blood scandal victims and their families Advertisement

Peter was informed 10 tears after the transfusion that the blood he was given may have been contaminated.

She told the ITV show: 'He started to get ill very quickly after he received the news in 1995.

'It wasn't just his health, it was the stigma that was attached. I remember he was so paranoid that I took my son to his house and he had a razor that he had put in the bin from a shave that morning.

'He kept saying 'please, please, please don't let your son go near the bin' because he was so worried of the stigma.

'That blood should have not have been brought into the NHS. It should have been tested.'

Asked how long after the transfusion she felt the NHS knew the blood was contaminated, Ms Huxley added: 'It happened before his transfusion. This is what we are so angry about.

'We knew in 1985 when he had the transfusion the nHs had had multiple warnings that this blood was contaminated.'

Ms Huxley says she has contacted her MP twice on the issue, but is yet to receive a reply.

The infected blood scandal saw thousands of patients infected with HIV and hepatitis C through contaminated blood products in the 1970s and 1980s

The ITV drama Mr Bates vs the Post Office sparked nationwide outrage over what has been described as one of the most widespread miscarriages of justice in British history.

READ MORE: Mr Bates vs The Post Office is most watched programme of 2024 so far and ITV's best drama in three years Advertisement

The Minister in charge of the Post Office told the Mail on Sunday that he cried twice while watching the dramatisation of the Horizon scandal. 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.'

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.

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.'
At least 47 people were buried when a landslide struck a remote and mountainous part of southwestern China early this morning, state media reported.

Two people have been confirmed dead after the pre-dawn landslide hit in Zhenxiong County, Yunnan province, state news agency Xinhua reported, citing local authorities.

State broadcaster CCTV said around 18 households were completely buried by a torrent of falling earth and that more than 200 people were 'urgently evacuated' from the area.

Authorities have launched an emergency response involving 200 rescue workers as well as dozens of fire engines and other equipment.

But rescue efforts will be complicated by the freezing and snowy conditions.

In this image taken from video footage run by China's CCTV, rescue workers search through rubble in the aftermath of a landslide in Liangshui village in southwestern China's Yunnan province on Monday

Rescuers search for survivors at the ruins of a landslide on January 22

Two people had been found dead at the site as of 1:30pm local time (0530 GMT), CCTV said, citing a reporter on the scene.

One local told the state-run Beijing News outlet that she was asleep when the disaster hit and that parts of her ceiling had fallen onto her head.

'At the time I thought it was an earthquake, but later I knew it was the hillslope collapsing,' another resident told the outlet.

Footage shared on social media by a local broadcaster showed emergency workers in orange jumpsuits and helmets forming ranks outside a fire station as snowflakes whirled through the air.

Other images showed rescuers picking through towering piles of collapsed masonry in which a few personal belongings could be seen.

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged 'all-out' rescue efforts, CCTV reported.

Xi 'demanded that rescue forces are organised quickly... and efforts made to reduce casualties as far as possible,' the broadcaster reported him as saying.

He added that it was 'necessary to properly handle the work of comforting the families of the deceased and resettling affected people'.

CCTV broadcast an image it said showed a firefighter working to pull a trapped villager from inside a home affected by the disaster.

The local village head declined to speak about the landslide when contacted by phone, telling an AFP reporter he was 'too busy'.

A view of a landslide in Liangshui village, Zhaotong City, Yunnan province, in this screen grab from social media video released on January 22

Landslides are common in Yunnan, a far-flung and largely impoverished region of China where steep mountain ranges butt against the Himalayan plateau.

Monday's disaster occurred in a rural area surrounded by towering peaks dusted with snow, state media footage showed.

Temperatures in Zhenxiong hovered at around -4degC (24.8F) on Monday morning, weather data showed.

There was no immediate official explanation for what may have caused the landslide, which struck at 5:51am (21.51 GMT Sunday).

Efforts to establish what happened are underway, Xinhua reported.

China has experienced a string of natural disasters in recent months, some following extreme weather events such as sudden, heavy downpours.

In September, rainstorms in the southern region of Guangxi triggered a mountain landslide that killed at least seven people, according to media reports.

Heavy rains sparked a similar disaster near the northern city of Xi'an in August, causing the deaths of more than 20 people.

And in June, a landslide in southwestern Sichuan province - also remote and mountainous - killed 19 people.
Rishi Sunak admitted there are 'practical issues' with his flagship childcare policy today - as he gave a vote of confidence in Jeremy Hunt.

The PM conceded there are difficulties but played down mounting concerns that the planned expansion of free childcare faces delays.

He insisted the government will keep the pledge that all working parents of two year olds will get 15 hours a week funded from April.

Mr Sunak also moved to quash mutterings about Mr Hunt's position, categorically confirming he will be Chancellor at the time of the next election.

The premier is pinning his hopes of staying in power on tax cuts on the Budget on March 6, with claims income tax or national insurance will be targeted.

Mr Hunt invoked the Thatcherite spirit of the 1980s over the weekend, with speculation that he could have 10billion to play with due to lower borrowing costs.

But there are worrying signs for Mr Sunak this morning, with claims that his crucial Meanwhile, research by More in Common has suggested Mr Sunak's personal ratings have been tumbling, with just 26 per cent of voters viewing him as an asset compared to 37 per cent in October.

The government will get official figures on the public finances tomorrow, and the Office for Budget Responsibility watchdog will give a private early assessment to the Treasury this week.

Rishi Sunak is pinning hopes of saving the election on Budget tax cuts with claims income tax or national insurance will be targeted

Taxes as a share of GDP are at the highest level since the Second World War

There are claims that Mr Sunak's crucial expansion of free childcare faces delays

Analysts expect the data will give Mr Hunt a boost with 6billion to 10billion more extra headroom against his fiscal targets than at the Autumn Statement.

Mr Sunak has said that there will be 'more to come' on taxes following a national insurance cut in that package - although critics point out the burden is still the highest since the Second World War.

In an article for ConservativeHome today, Mr Hunt said 'lower taxed economies have seen higher growth, and higher taxed economies have seen lower growth'.

'It's why we've brought taxes down, wherever and whenever we responsibly could,' he said.

'You can see it in our track record after our repair job on the public finances from 2010, and you'll see it as we emerge from the turbulence of recent years. Not just because it's right, but because it's the only path to a sustainably higher growth economy.

'That will be our stall come the election, but the other side of the debate is deliberately misty.

'Labour's electoral strategy hangs on telling the public there's no difference with the Conservatives on the economy, while Ed Miliband quietly promises their own side they'll decarbonise the grid by 2030 at whatever the cost  as if policymaking exists in a silo, away from the macro economic reality.'

The Chancellor told The Mail on Sunday yesterday that 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.

'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 premier 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.

Analysts at Capital Economics told the Financial Times that the cost of government borrowing is expected to go down, boosting Mr Hunt.

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.

Meanwhile, ministers have been accused of 'disastrous failure' in delivering the free childcare pledge.

Setbacks in allocation of funding, staff shortages and IT problems are threatening the timeline of the scheme, according to the Times.

The reforms for England will to allow some families of children as young as nine months to claim 30 hours of free childcare a week.

Under the plans, working parents of two-year-olds should be able to access 15 hours of free childcare from April. That will be extended to working parents of all children older than nine months from September.

From September 2025, working parents of children under five will be entitled to 30 hours' free childcare per week.

But nurseries have not yet been informed how much they will be paid for each of the places, with many warning parents they will therefore not be able to immediately honour the Government's free hours pledge, according to the paper.

There are also doubts about the extension due in September because of a lack of nursery staff.

Jeremy Hunt invoked the Thatcherite spirit of the 1980s over the weekend, with speculation that he could have 10billion to play with due to lower borrowing costs

The Department for Education (DfE) is said to have initially miscalculated the cost of the scheme, resulting in delays in childcare providers finding out from councils how much funding they will get.

The Times quoted unnamed Whitehall sources as saying 'the strategy is flashing red all over the board' and 'September is going to be an absolute shit show'.

A DfE spokesperson said: 'We are rolling out the single largest expansion in childcare in England's history, ensuring working parents with 30 hours of free childcare a week, starting at nine months old all the way up to their child starting school. We are pleased that thousands of parents have already applied for the expansion starting in April.

'However, a pre-existing feature in the system, where parents re-confirm their eligibility every three months, is impacting a minority of parents when combined with a small number of providers who are asking for codes much earlier than April.

'Parents who can't re-confirm online until the second half of February or March will therefore automatically receive a letter with a code from HMRC before the middle of February, without needing to take any action.'
A convicted Rochdale grooming gang leader is still living in the UK nearly nine years after he was ordered to be deported.

In a case that shocked the nation, nine Asian men were convicted in 2012 of a range of sexual offences against children including rape, trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with children in and around Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

Ringleader Qari Abdul Rauf was told he would be packed off to Pakistan after serving a jail term for child sex offences.

But Rauf, 54, is still enjoying life in Britain and spending time with his family, MailOnline discovered.

Convicted Rochdale groomer Abdul Rauf (pictured) seen leaving his home in Rochdale, Greater Manchester on January 18, 2024

Rauf was pictured on January 18, 2024, being collected from his home in Rochdale by a friend who was taking him for a trip out

Although Rauf was stripped of his British citizenship, his deportation has been held up as Pakistan has reportedly refused to take him back. He is pictured leaving his family home in Rochdale on January 18, 2024

Although he was stripped of his British citizenship, his deportation has been held up as Pakistan  the other country where he enjoyed dual nationality  reportedly refused to take him back.

Last week he was collected by a friend and driven off for a trip out, our exclusive photos show.

Rauf refused to comment and initially denied that he was the convicted pervert when approached.

Schoolchildren regularly walk past the 140,000 three-bedroom red brick semi-detached house in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, where he lives.

Former taxi driver and Muslim preacher Rauf was jailed in 2012 for the scandal which was later dramatised in the BBC drama 'Three Girls'.

He was jailed for six years after being convicted of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with children under 16 and trafficking for sexual exploitation.

But he was freed on licence in November 2014 after just two-and-a-half years in prison. He then returned home to his wife and five children.

The Home Office told him he would be stripped of his UK citizenship in 2015 and returned to his native Pakistan with fellow abusers Abdul Aziz and Adil Khan.

They lost an appeal in 2018 against the ruling to strip them of their citizenship rights.

Rauf and fellow defendant Adil Khan were both ordered to be sent back to Pakistan on their release but their lawyers appealed.

Alongside Adil Khan, Rauf sought to claim in 2022 that his forced removal would be incompatible with his human rights, but that appeal failed.

In August 2023, immigration judges refused another further appeal from Rauf's lawyers  whose identities have been protected by way of an unusual court order.

Photos exclusive to Mail Online show Rochdale groomer Abdul Rauf getting in to his friends car who was taking him for a trip out on January 18, 2024

Adil Khan (pictured) who was one of nine members of a child sex exploitation ring from Rochdale and Oldham. He was jailed for eight years and is still awaiting deportation

But the pair's removal has been delayed because Pakistan, is reportedly refusing to allow them to return.

Both men claimed during their deportation appeals that they have renounced their Pakistani citizenships, rendering them 'stateless'.

A previous hearing concluded that it would be 'relatively easy' for the pair to reclaim their Pakistani nationalities but that they were 'unwilling' to do so.

A new hard-hitting report released last week concluded that at least 96 men who pose a potential risk to children continue to roam the Greater Manchester area, but admits they are likely 'only a proportion of the individuals' committing sex abuse.

Following on from a 2013 report that examined how abuse was allowed to continue for so long before any convictions were secured, the damning 173-page paper slammed police and council bosses for failing to act on early reports of grooming.

A Home Office spokesperson said they could not comment on individual cases but added in a statement: 'The disgraceful failures in Rochdale must never happen again. That's why we have set up a dedicated Taskforce of specialist officers to tackle grooming gangs, helping forces target those who prey on young people and bring them to justice, and will introduce mandatory reporting for adults working with young people if someone in their care is being sexually abused.

'We know we must do more to protect vulnerable children and our new Criminal Justice Bill will look to further protect victims and make sure grooming gangs and their leaders face the toughest possible sentences.'
The late Queen Elizabeth II concealed details of a minor royal's wealth from the public, it has emerged.

Staff at Britain's National Archives reportedly censored documents that had a request from the late Queen to keep the will of one of her relatives secret.

They withdrew the documents two years ago and removed parts of them before returning them into the public domain last year.

This was despite a courtier's claims that 'fringe members' of the royal family 'need not have their wills sealed,' except for in special circumstances.

The Guardian, which had photographed the complete file in 2021, identified that a section was missing from a report written by senior judicial official Robert Bayne-Powell in 1970.

It said: 'I learn that her majesty 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.'

Staff at Britain's National Archives reportedly censored documents that had a request from the late Queen to keep the will of one of her relatives secret

The late Queen Elizabeth II concealed details of a minor royal's wealth from the public - the Countess of Harewood - it has emerged

The Countess of Harewood was a daughter of George V and an aunt of the late Queen.

She died in 1965 and left behind 5.6million in today's money.

Reports said staff at the National Archives in Kew, south-west London, removed the file containing official discussions on royal wills between 1957 and 1970.

Staff at the archives, where government documents dating back more than 1,000 years are held, also removed a letter from June 1970 in which a courtier in charge of the Queen's finances said the wills of minor royals did not need to be kept private.

Courtier Lord Tryon had told a Whitehall 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.'

The National Archives told the Guardian the documents had been removed, in consultation with the Ministry of Justice, due to having information related to communications with the Queen - which they say was kept private under a section of the Freedom of Information Act.

A spokesperson for The National Archives told MailOnline: 'In January 2023, we dealt with an FOI request relating to file LCO 65/262 'Royal Wills: withholding and sealing up of Royal Wills'. The record was made 'Access Under Review' while it was being reviewed.

'Redactions were made because, we found, in consultation with the Ministry of Justice as the responsible authority (in line with s.66 FOI Act), that some information in this record is exempt under section 37(1)(a) of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2000 which exempts information if it relates to communications with or on behalf of the Sovereign.'

MailOnline has also contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.
A female executive who won 100,000 after her boss sexually harassed her has told how her ordeal has left her 'scarred, angry and enduring a daily emotional rollercoaster'.

Louise Crabtree opened up about the year-long campaign of harassment by sex pest company boss Marc Bandemer, revealing she felt as if she was being 'groomed'.

Speaking candidly about the toll of his harassment, the mother-of-three said Mr Bandemer's repeated advances have traumatised her so much she can no longer work for a man.

Senior executive Ms Crabtree, 49, said German Mr Bandemer, 59, treated her like his 'property' as he openly called her his 'second wife' and physically pulled her onto his lap in front of her family and partner.

Mr Bandemer called her 'naughty', 'brat' and 'girl', ogled her body, bought her a 'commitment' ring, confessed his love for her, and offered to buy them a 'love nest' in Cyprus.

Louise Crabtree (pictured) has opened up about the year-long campaign of harassment by her sex pest company boss

Marc Bandemer (pictured) called Ms Crabtree a 'naughty girl' and offered to buy them a Cyprus 'love nest'

Despite feeling 'totally violated', the mother of three said she didn't want to upset him as she feared losing her job.

But now, speaking after successfully suing Mr Bandemer and his company, Ms Crabtree has admitted 'I feel angry at myself that I didn't say stop enough times'.

On Wednesday investment executive Ms Crabtree was awarded 99,214 in compensation.

Ms Crabtree had successfully sued Mr Bandemer and his company Integer Wealth Global for sexual harassment after she was 'ousted' from her 124,000 a year job.

It was heard after one month of joining the Hampshire-based company in April 2021 Mr Bandemer began subjecting her to degrading sexist comments that 'crossed the boundary'.

The harassment continued for months, with Ms Crabtree feeling 'trapped' as she didn't want to lose her job, until she started to put her foot down and he froze her out the company in May 2022.

Ms Crabtree, from Romsey, Hampshire, penned a witness statement - which was presented to the tribunal - speaking of the impact the harassment had on her.

In it she said: 'When I joined [Mr Bandemer] and his group of companies, I was happy and excited to work and to embark on a new career supporting my kids independently.

The mother said Mr Bandemer's repeated advances have traumatised her so much she can no longer work for a man

'The impact on my mental and physical health due to the sexual harassment as well as the stress of him controlling me through not paying my salary consistently impacts me to this day.

'His hostility towards me when I didn't do it as he said, or when I tried to address issues such as my salary, his behaviour, his comment or the fear and intimidation he inflicted when he demoted me has left me scarred and I struggle to deal with his treatment of me.

'I feel angry at myself that I didn't say stop enough times.

'His treatment of me has impacted my life financially, mentally and physically and will take me a long time to fully recover or regain trust if I decide to work for a company again.

'I feel I was groomed by [Mr Bandemer] and feel angry at myself for allowing it to happen.

'Following my termination... the fear of suddenly having no income and them not even offering me notice pay or holiday pay sent me into a panic.

'I initially attempted to have interviews with other prospective employers, but both were male, and I mentally felt I couldn't work in an environment where my boss was male.

'I set up my own company and tried to bury my mental health issues as my over riding objective was to somehow support myself and kids.

'This wasn't one isolated incident or a few but a constant emotional and physical rollercoaster of stress and anxiety that I had to and still endure.

'No one can possibly understand the daily turmoil I was under even when seeing my apparent light-hearted reactions or dismissal of his advances which were a way of survival for me.'

Ms Crabtree said after joining in April 2021 she bit her tongue.

'When the comments started to cross the boundary from May 2021, I did not want to rock the boat and I addressed it through humour or by ignoring', she said.

'But it had no effect. I asked him not to be inappropriate.

'I could see he was the authoritative figure and would do what he wanted even if I objected.

'Externally I put on a brave face and laughed or ignored comments, underneath I felt demeaned and embarrassed by the inappropriate comments and touching during my tenure.

'As his advances intensified, I felt trapped as to what to say or do.

Ms Crabtree had successfully sued Mr Bandemer and his company Integer Wealth Global for sexual harassment after she was 'ousted' from her 124,000 a year job

'I had asked him to stop or told him how I felt on previous occasions, but it had no affect other than to aggravate him or result in me working in a hostile environment with him threatening to discipline me or being short-tempered with me.'

She added: 'During the trip to Luxembourg, I felt demeaned by his comments and the way he insisted to follow me into shops or come swimming with me.

'When he eyed me up and down in my swimsuit I felt violated, especially when he made comments about my body and how good I looked.

'He called me naughty in front of others as well as his second wife and it made me feel like I was his property.

'The worst part was when he attempted to lure me into his bedroom. I felt horrified and trapped as I had to remain by his side for meetings and was under his complete control.

'When he grabbed me or touched me, I felt very uncomfortable and violated.

'It made the feelings even worse because they happened in front of friends and colleagues.

'I felt embarrassed, humiliated and it was hard to say no to him when I was subordinate to him.

'I was horrified when it happened in front of my daughter but she didn't understand I depended on [him] for my salary to support us and I was afraid and anxious to lose my job.

'It distressed me to see how upset [her daughter] was being exposed to this behaviour as documented in the recording.

'The incident at my birthday party where he physically attempted to pull me onto his lap, in front of my family and partner was humiliating, which I tried to address in a phone call to him and email.

Mr Bandemer called Ms Crabtree 'naughty', 'brat' and 'girl', ogled her body, bought her a 'commitment' ring, confessed his love for her, and offered to buy them a 'love nest' in Cyprus

'Confronting Mr Bandemer was difficult to do. I was subordinate to him and didn't want to displease him or lose my job by raising an issue and told him several times.

'The phone conversation asking him to stop displeased him and within weeks he punished me by threatening me with insubordination.

'I was constantly treading on eggshells... unable to deal with him being nice one minute, aggressive and hostile the next, and it left me unable to sleep and caused me so much anxiety daily.

'I was in constant turmoil during my tenure having either to endure constant inappropriate comments and unwanted physical contact as well as the financial stress of never knowing if I would receive my income at the end of each month...

Ms Crabtree said receiving a vase that said 'Louise, the flowers herein will never surpass your beauty' was 'distressing'.

She said the 'commitment' ring he got her looked like an engagement ring and she 'couldn't bring myself to look at it or wear it'.

'When he would call me his second wife to colleagues and family members, I felt like I was his property and totally helpless as I was junior to him, and he was my boss', she added.

'It was degrading and embarrassing every time he said it, and it made me anxious and on edge especially when I did nothing about it.

'The constant emails where he referred to me in sexist terms like naughty girl or brat over months of my employment was degrading and distressing since I could do nothing about it.

'When he stated that even though I had a partner that I was his and he loved me far more than my partner did, I felt like I was his property and inferior to him and nothing I could say or do would change his repeated sexual harassment towards me.

'I was not sleeping and suffering stress and anxiety daily.'

After she stood up against him, Ms Crabtree was removed from the company.

She said: 'Mr Bandemer made it clear I had 'disrespected him' and there were consequences and this resulted in working daily without direction and totally stressing that my job was in jeopardy.

'I felt isolated and it was clear that I was being ousted by Mr Bandemer because I had rejected him, and this daily uncertainty became unbearable mentally and physically.

'It was as bad as the harassment and discrimination I had been subject to throughout my tenure.

'I felt I was ousted from the 'boys club; and no longer part of the team I had worked so hard and created the only revenue for the company but now I was being punished for rejecting his advances.

'I felt ganged up against and my job was in jeopardy. I could see Mr Bandemer no longer wanted me in the company and was helpless as to what to do.'
A Belgian man accused of fatally stabbing a British tourist in Amsterdam's city centre is facing up to 14 years in jail.

Danny Castledine, a 22-year-old student at Leeds Beckett University, met a tragic end less than 24 hours after arriving on a weekend trip with his friend in the popular European destination on June 1, 2022.

The student from Nottinghamshire was found with 30 stab wounds and 14 lacerations, having suffered a violent attack in the early hours of the morning.

Dutch prosecutors on Friday pushed for a harsh sentence for 24-year-old suspect Nongo B., who was allegedly captured in security footage walking with Castledine along the banks of the Singel canal moments before his death.

Danny Castledine, a 22-year-old student at Leeds Beckett University, met a tragic end less than 24 hours after arriving on a weekend trip with his friend in the popular European destination on June 1, 2022

Danny Castledine was a fun-loving student who loved to travel, his family said

Belgian suspect Nongo B. was allegedly captured in security footage walking with Castledine along the banks of the Singel canal moments before his death

Investigators revealed that Nongo was found to have ingested a large quantity of drugs upon his arrest and had traces of Catledine's blood on his clothing and shoes, leading police to connect him to the crime scene.

Footage revealed by investigators reportedly showed an intoxicated Castledine with Nongo around 2.12am.

The pair were then captured by CCTV by the Singel some 30 minutes later, where Nongo is said to have carried out a savage attack with a blade.

He is said to have dragged Castledine's body to the roadside in an attempt to dispose of evidence before fleeing the scene.

Castledine's body was discovered by horrified revellers around 3.30am, prosecutors said.

Paramedics were called to the scene but were unable to revive the Englishman.

Danny Castledine, a 22-year-old student at Leeds Beckett University, died after the incident on the Singel on June 1, 2022

Singel canal in Amsterdam

Heartfelt tributes to Castledine poured in weeks and months after his death.

The student, who was in his final year at Leeds Beckett University at the time of his death, was described by his devastated family as a travel enthusiast who had explored 23 countries in his lifetime.

His family recalled Danny's passion for holidays, music festivals, and fashion.

'Danny had a long list of places that he wanted to visit in the future. One of those was to the Bahamas to swim with pigs. His ambition was to work on and promote music festivals as a career, and probably live abroad,' a statement said.

'When back at home in Mansfield, he would be out with his schooldays friends, and fitting in shifts at McDonalds to fund his extravagant lifestyle.

'He also had a major passion for fashion, and thought nothing of spending large on designer gear, from t-shirts to trainers.'

A fundraising page set up by Danny's ex-girlfriend, Ashleigh Hufton, aimed to raise awareness about the devastating impact of knife crime and provide funds for victim support.

The initial goal of 2,400 was surpassed in just four hours, leading Hufton to increase the target to 15,000.

The total raised currently stands at 14,820.
Two Scottish pensioners who were mauled by an American XL Bully and both hospitalised with grievous injuries had been visiting the house of a relative to check on the animal when it escaped a cage and attacked them, it has emerged.

The terrifying attack took place in a property in Dyce, Aberdeen last week after the Scottish government's decision to follow England and Wales' lead in banning the breed.

Under the new Scottish regulations, it will be an offence to sell, abandon, give away, or breed an XL bully in Scotland and owners will have to apply for their dogs to be added to an exemption index to keep them.

Last week's attack involving a 73-year-old man and his wife, 70, who were known to the dog saw the man suffer serious injuries to his arms and face which would require surgery whilst his wife was also hospitalised.

The Daily Record reports that following the attack the XL Bully, named Gumma, was put down and a police probe into the events has started in earnest.

Gumma, the XL Bully responsible for the attack (pictured) has reportedly been put down

First Minister Humza Yousaf was criticised for not bringing in the ban sooner

Under the new Scottish regulations, it will be an offence to sell, abandon, give away, or breed an XL bully in Scotland (stock image)

The families of the two victims insisted that the dog had been carefully looked after before the attack, telling the paper: 'Anyone being attacked by a dog is horrific but it has been blown well out of proportion.'

Commenting on the attack, Scottish Tory justice spokesman Russell Findlay said: 'Our thoughts are with the victims of this horror attack which yet again confirms the reckless stupidity of the SNP's dithering.

'Having been shamed into finally backing new UK laws, Humza Yousaf must now move quickly to ensure that Scots are given the same protections from these dangerous animals.'

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Around 3pm on Wednesday, January 17, we received a report of a man being attacked by a dog in the Corrennia Circle area of Aberdeen.

'Emergency services attended and a 73-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Enquires are ongoing.'

Under new laws, owners wanting to keep their XL bully will have to pay an unconfirmed fee to register the pet.

The cost is currently 92.40 in England and Wales.

Scottish community safety minister Siobhian Brown said the move is 'right and proper' amid concern over an influx of dogs being abandoned in Scotland.

Compensation will be payable to owners who no longer wish to keep their pet, including reimbursement for euthanasia.

Announcing the safeguards in a ministerial statement in Holyrood, Ms Brown blamed the UK Government for failing to consider the 'knock-on impacts' of controls being implemented south of the border.

She said: 'As the First Minister set out last week, the UK Government failed to act to stop dog owners in England and Wales evade the new controls by bringing their dogs to Scotland.

'That changed the balance of whether we needed to act here in Scotland.

'These are exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves. It means that it is now right and proper that we replicate the controls being implemented south of the border.'

The Scottish government had been criticised prior to the introduction of the new ban over fears the country could become a 'safe haven' for XL Bullys.

Kerryanne Shaw, 38, owns the All Bullie Charity Rescue, which operates UK-wide to take in the dogs

After racking up 20,000 in donations, the 38-year-old planned to set up a 'safe haven' in Dundee for the XL Bully breeds she rescues

One man in England claimed to have driven 30 dogs to Scotland for rehoming purposes whilst the owner of a dog charity set up a fundraiser for a sanctuary for XL Bully breeds.

Kerryanne Shaw, 38, racked up 20,000 in donations to set up a 'safe haven' in Dundee for the XL Bully breed - but refused to reveal the exact location after being inundated with death threats online over her plans.

Conservative justice spokesman Russell Findlay had previously hit out at the Scottish Government for having 'dithered' over whether to follow the UK Government by acting.

Mr Findlay said Tories warned 'that the SNP's stupidity would result in an influx of XL bullies into Scotland and that is exactly what is happening'.
An Army dentist faces two years in jail after pleading guilty to sending revenge porn of an SAS hero.

Major Jennifer Wilson, 42, sent the X-rated pictures and video of Christian Craighead, 47, to his girlfriend Tobi-Jayne Cadbury, 36.

Wilson  who is with the Royal Medical Corps  admitted sending pictures and footage of Craighead, that were indecent and grossly offensive.

She was initially arrested last year and held at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey before being granted bail.

Aylesbury Crown Court was told Wilson sent the images to Ms Cadbury between June 14, and 10 March 10, 2023 'with the intention of causing distress'.

Major Jennifer Wilson, 42, admitted sending pictures and footage of Craighead (not his real name) that were indecent and grossly offensive

Wilson  who is with the Royal Medical Corps  was initially arrested last year and held at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey before being granted bail

Who Dares Wins legend Craighead (not his real name) earned a Conspicuous Gallantry Cross award after fighting Al-Shabaab terrorists who attacked the DusitD2 hotel in Nairobi, Kenya

Mr Craighead's girlfriend Tobi-Jayne Cadbury is the great-great-great granddaughter of chocolate baron Richard

Ms Cadbury is the great-great-great granddaughter of chocolate baron Richard.

Wilson was also accused of stalking her through two fake social media accounts called 'mikewoodali53' and 'crazy_fredo_87'.

She pleaded not guilty to the charge and entered the same plea for an allegation of perverting the course of justice.

Judge Recorder Wright ruled the first charge would lie on file and the second allegation was dismissed after prosecutor Neil King offered no evidence.

Defending Wilson, Brent Martin asked the court that she should be allowed access to a computer for her 'work with the army' and this was granted.

Recorder Wright told Wilson, of High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, that she would be bailed pending sentencing reports.

Guidelines say the maximum time in prison for sending sexual photographs and film with the intention to cause distress is two years.

Outside court Wilson declined to comment and was driven away in a car with friends holding a coat over her head.

Last year the General Dental Council, the governing body of dental medicine, ruled she should be temporarily suspended from practicing for 18 months until after her upcoming court case.

The soldier uses the pseudonym Christian Craighead and has been gagged from releasing a book on how he defeated Islamic terrorists in Kenya

It is alleged that married Wilson released private sexual photographs and films of Mr Craighead (pictured) last year

Ms Cadbury (pictured) was sent X-rated pictures and video of her boyfriend Mr Craighead

Craighead (right) wanted to publish his account of the day that five terrorists stormed the Dusit D2 hotel complex in Nairobi in January 2019 where 21 people died

Craighead breaching a door of the hotel while wearing a camouflage flak jacket and a balaclava and armed only with an assault rifle

The case was heard in private because of the criminal prosecution after being told in a submission 'there would be serious damage to public confidence in the dental profession should she be permitted to continue in unrestricted practice whilst facing serious criminal charges'.

In a written ruling on the GDC website the body said:' Whilst the Committee took into account that you are not currently in clinical practice, it considered its duty to safeguard the wider public interest.

'It also took into account that the bar is set high for the imposition of an interim order on public interest grounds alone.

'It concluded, however, that given the nature and gravity of the matters in this case, and notwithstanding all the matters drawn to its attention, there would be a risk of serious damage to public confidence in the profession, if no interim order were imposed.

'The Committee therefore determined that an interim order on your registration is otherwise in the public interest.'

The hearing was held via video link and the order was made for 18 months although it can be reviewed in six.

Who Dares Wins legend Craighead earned a Conspicuous Gallantry Cross award after fighting Al-Shabaab terrorists who attacked the DusitD2 hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2019 - saving dozens of lives.

The soldier uses the pseudonym Christian Craighead to protect his identity. It is not his real name. He was gagged from releasing a book on how he defeated the Islamic terrorists.

The off-duty former SAS fighter rushed to the scene of the attack and, armed with an assault rifle he kept in his car boot, spearheaded the rescue alongside local security forces.

The book entitled 'One Man In: The Explosive Firsthand Account of the Lone Special-Ops Soldier Who Fought Off a Major Terrorist Attack in Kenya' was expected to be published last year.

Chris Craighead leading terrified guests to safety after storming the hotel building in Kenya

Craighead appeared on Evan Hafer's Black Rifle Coffee Podcast Referring in 2022 and briefly spoke about confidentiality issues.

He said: 'I'm working with the Ministry of Defence as we speak to do it properly, to release this book so there's no sense of information or anything.

'So that's as far as I'm willing to talk about my life in the 22nd Special Air Service regiment.

'I should add that the book is just about that one day, so for anyone on the edge of their seats it doesn't talk about anything I did while serving in the unit.

'It just talks about one thing I did that we all know I did.'

Ms Cadbury was not in court for the hearing.
The president of the Philippines has been slammed on social media for using a presidential helicopter to attend a Coldplay concert.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr used the aircraft to travel to the British rock band's show in a province north of the capital, Manila, last week.

The Philippine Arena, the world's largest indoor arena, saw an influx of 40,000 concert-goers resulting in 'unforeseen traffic complications along the route,' the Presidential Security Group said in a statement.

The traffic situation posed a security threat to Marcos who attended the Friday night concert with his wife, prompting the use of the presidential chopper, it added.

But social media users criticised the use of taxpayer money by Marcos, the son and namesake of the late strongman president whose rule ended nearly four decades ago in a historic 'people power' revolution.

President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been slammed on social media for using a presidential helicopter to attend a Coldplay concert

During the band's show, Coldplay's frontman Chris Martin (pictured in November) joked about Manila's notoriously bad traffic and thanked the crowd for making it to the gig

'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.

Activist Renato Reyes described the decision as 'a grave insult to millions of Filipino commuters' who regularly get stuck in the city's notorious traffic.

'We are faced with a debilitating mass transport crisis that has caused terrible traffic and nightmare commutes for ordinary folks,' he said, according to The Guardian.

Reyes pointed to the fact that the city, whose metro area is home to over 14 million people, has been ranked as having the world's worst traffic in an international survey.

During the band's show, Coldplay's frontman Chris Martin even joked about the traffic and thanked the crowd for making it to the gig.

He said: 'We've seen some traffic. But I think you have the number one [traffic] in the world. Thank you for making the effort to come through all that bulls**t to be here.'

Writing for the Philippine Star, columnist Ana Marie Pamintuan said she hoped that the fact the president felt it necessary to fly to the concert will spark official action.

'Taxpayers can only hope the traffic situation deemed to be on the scale of an emergency, which ostensibly prompted an airlift for BBM and wife, will lead to better traffic management in Greater Manila,' she wrote.

She added that episode has revived memories among the country's older generations of Marcos' father and mother.

Dictator Marcos Sr ruled the Philippines for two decades, with the family becoming known for their extravagance and accused of plundering billions of dollars.

'Public disappointment with what some described as one of the worst cases of wang-wang for the Philippines entitled class circulated on social media over the weekend,' Pamintuan wrote in her column.

Manila, whose metro area is home to over 14 million people, has been ranked as having the world's worst traffic in an international survey

'For the older generations, it revived memories of Ferdinand Senior and Imeldific.'

She also called on the President, who she said 'describes himself as a polo-playing friend of Britains King Charles III' to 'buy his own helicopter and aviation fuel.'

Meanwhile, Coldplay fans pointed out that the band works to ensure that their concerts and tours are as environmentally friendly as possible.

According to the four-member band's website, Coldplay has started using renewable energy to power their shows and alternative fuels where possible.
Lahore (Pak), Jan 21 (UNI) Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday called PTI workers to support his party in the upcoming general election, vowing to bury politics of revenge.

I have experienced the oppression of the PML-N and I would never wish for any political party worker to endure such hardship, he told a public meeting in Lahore.

I do not believe in politics of oppression, he added.

The PPP chairman emphasised that the upcoming elections were a contest between the PML-N and the PPP and urged PTI workers to lend their support to the latter, Dawn news reports.

He asserted that imprisoning women belonging to rival parties was not called politics, according to media reports.

Those who profess to uphold the sanctity of the vote are currently engaging in political manoeuvres that betray their original ideology, he said in reference to the PML-N.

Bilawal also extended an invitation to PML-N workers, saying, come to me, and I will respect your vote and take care of you.

He insisted that he would unite the country by rooting out politics of division and hatred. I respect everyone and believe in consensus, he said.

Calling on the youth to not squander the power of the vote, he highlighted the challenges faced by many young and qualified individuals in securing employment.

Give me one chance, and I will provide you with a youth card, ensuring that you will not face difficulties in obtaining both jobs and training in modern technology, he said.

He insisted that under the PPP, the income of the common man would be doubled, and with the party in power, its goal of constructing three million houses could also be achieved.

In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) after the rally, Bilawal said, It is time to put an end to the politics of revenge, division, and hate. It is time to choose a new way of politics.

On February 8, vote for the arrow and choose a better tomorrow, he said.

UNI/XC GNK
A former BBC Scotland lawyer is suing TV Licensing chiefs after claiming he was falsely accused of not paying for a licence.

Alistair Bonnington, 71, said he has been 'hounded' with the threat of prosecution after moving to his new house, despite having a licence.

TV Licensing threatened to take him to court and said it could apply for a search warrant for the property  while a fine of up to 1,000 could be levied 'plus any legal costs'.

Mr Bonnington, who was head of legal at BBC Scotland for 16 years, is taking court action demanding compensation for his ordeal, which began more than a year ago.

The retired lawyer, who has four grandchildren, said: 'They have hounded me and made threats but because of my legal background I wasn't intimidated, although it was unpleasant.

Alistair Bonnington, 71, (pictured) said he has been 'hounded' with the threat of prosecution after moving to his new house, despite having a TV licence

'For others  for example, a parent of young children or an elderly and vulnerable person  it's not hard to imagine that they would just say, ''Fair enough, I'll pay this'', to put an end to it, even though they'd already paid.

'The problem is that TV Licensing did not respond to most of my emails or letters, or listen to what I was telling them, so something that could have been resolved easily drags on for many months.'

Mr Bonnington moved from Glasgow to Berwick-upon-Tweed in December 2022 and 'almost immediately' received a letter from TV Licensing, telling him he needed to get a licence.

He said: 'The letters just kept coming and I would email them or write  sending letters by recorded delivery  and explain that I had already paid for a licence, but it got me nowhere.'

The first letter from TV Licensing, dated December 14, 2022, said its database showed his new address 'is currently unlicensed'.

TV Licensing threatened to take him to court and said it could apply for a search warrant for the property  while a fine of up to 1,000 could be levied 'plus any legal costs' (Stock photo)

It added: 'You are therefore at risk of a visit by our Edinburgh Enforcement Division.

'If our enforcement officers visit and find that you are watching, downloading or recording TV illegally, you could face prosecution, and a fine of up to 1,000, plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay.'

In May last year he was warned to expect a visit from an enforcement officer but it never happened.

Mr Bonnington is now taking legal action against the BBC in the county court in England for compensation of 1,000, and 'would like a line to be drawn' under the case.

TV Licensing is a trademark used by companies contracted by the BBC to administer the collection of television licence fees. A spokesman said it 'would be inappropriate to comment or speculate on next steps while the legal process is ongoing'.
A scaffolder who was arrested after trying to clear Blackfriars Bridge of Just Stop Oil protestors has had his case dropped due to 'insufficient evidence'.

Louis Grieves, 22, was late for work when he clashed with a group of climate activists blocking the London bridge in Spring last year.

He was initially charged with common assault after the incident but this was later reduced to using threatening words or behaviour against the protesters.

The construction worker was due to appear for trial at City of London Magistrates Court but despite the case being on the list, the court said it had been discontinued and the charges have been dropped altogether.

Jonathan Bryan, who was due to prosecute the case said: 'It was on my list this morning, but I knew it wouldn't go ahead as it was discontinued yesterday due to insufficient evidence.'

Louis Grieves, 22, (pictured) was late for work when he clashed with a group of climate activists blocking the London bridge in Spring last year

After his charges were finally dropped, Mr Grieves said: 'I'm glad it's all over,' but did not wish to comment any further.

Video footage shared by protest group Just Stop Oil (JSO) from May last year shows Grieves dressed in orange hi-vis trousers and a grey hoodie shoving two protestors wearing orange hi-vis jackets before being tackled by two police officers.

The scaffolder, who was late for work on the morning of May 23 last year, exited his work van at Blackfriars Bridge in central London to confront the protesters.

As the two officers grapple with him, one is heard telling Grieves: 'You're f****ing assaulting them,' moments before they handcuff him.

Upon being told that charges against Grieves had been dropped, a spokesperson for Just Stop Oil (JSO) said they 'wish him well'.

However, the spokesperson also claimed Grieves had got off lightly compared to some JSO protesters who have recently been jailed.

Grieves (pictured) was handcuffed by police with the Met saying this was done to stop 'further Breach of the Peace'

Grieves (pictured) was seen trying to remove Just Stop Oil activists from the road

Grieves was initially charged with common assault after the incident but this was later reduced to using threatening words or behaviour against the Just Stop Oil protesters

The spokesperson said: 'We wouldn't have pursued charges against Louis.

'We appreciate his frustration when we are taking the actions we do and accept the consequences of that.

'JSO protesters are equally as frustrated that we have to go and do these things to avoid the collapse of law and order.

'So we wish him well, really. But we hope he won't go around roughing people up in the future.

'It is definitely interesting seeing the array of responses from the Judiciary these days - especially when you compare this case with the likes of Stephen Gingell, who was sentenced to six months in prison for peacefully marching.'

Gingell was jailed in December by magistrates in Manchester under a new law for 'interference with key national infrastructure'.

A Met Police spokesperson said: 'We have no further comment to add.'

A CPS spokesperson said: 'Following careful review of all the available evidence, we determined that this case no longer met our legal test.'
A nomadic sheep-shearing sex-offender considered 'high-risk' has been returned to the streets of Britain after being imprisoned in the Falkland Islands for a horrific attack on a teenage girl.

Roland Wedgwood-Orekoya, 32, who previously travelled the world as a sheep shearer, was jailed in the British territory after he lured a teenage girl to his home on the island and sexually assaulted her.

The attack, which took place in April 2022 in Port Stanley, saw Wedgwood-Orekoya approach his victim at a burger van before tricking her back to his flat under the pretence they would share cannabis together.

Upon arrival, Wedgwood-Orekoya stripped himself naked and attempted to force himself on her, tearing her clothes and giving her bruises in what the prosecution called a 'sustained assault'.

The terrifying assault only ended when his victim punched him and escaped the house and resulted in Wedgwood-Orekoya being sentenced to 18 months inside.

Roland Wedgwood-Orekoya, 32, who previously travelled the world as a sheep shearer, was jailed in the Falkland Islands

The sex offender was jailed for 18 months for the horrific assaults

Nomadic Wedgwood-Orekoya had been working on the islands as a sheep shearer

But after serving his sentence, the sex offender has now been returned to Britain and is already roaming the streets of Glasgow.

Under his strict licensing requirements, Wedgwood-Orekoya has been ordered to sign the sex-offenders register until 2032.

He will be frequently monitored and must notify authorities if he changes his name or address.

Wedgwood-Orekoya's probation report had suggested his 'transient lifestyle' as a sheep shearer meant he possessed a unique danger.

Whilst sentencing him in 2022, Judge Malcolm Simmons said: 'You have been assessed as being a high risk of harm to the public, namely females, especially those to whom you are sexually attracted. There was clearly a level of violence in the way you manhandled your victim.

'This was clearly a frightening event for her.

'What occurred was not a momentary touching but a sustained assault.

'She was living at home with her parents, having recently left school. You are a man in your thirties.

'You specifically targeted a particularly vulnerable victim, a young girl who you knew had been drinking. You continue to deny the offence. You have shown no remorse.'
The former first daughter, 42, posted a short video on her feed showing her giving a flirty kiss to the camera while also posting a photo showing her with husband Jared Kushner, 43, who was suited and booted

Ivanka Trump stunned once more in a vintage Robert Cavali gown as she went for a night on the town in Los Angeles along with her husband.

The former first daughter, 42, posted a short video on her feed showing her giving a flirty kiss to the camera while also posting a photo showing her with husband Jared Kushner, 43, who was suited and booted. 'My love,' the caption simply reads.

Kim Kardashian took to Ivanka's feed to tell the world how much fun was had at a mysterious event. 'Last night was so fun! U looked amazinggggggg.' Ivanka has yet to respond although several commenters urged the former Mrs. Kanye West to vote for Donald Trump in November.

Also commenting was her sister-in-law, Lara Trump who joked: 'Don't let me near all of these [fire emoji] dresses.'

Ivanka of course has more time to keep up with the Kardashians these days since distancing herself from her father's political activities.

While she was in the City of Angels, her father was in celebratory spirits in New Hampshire as he celebrated not only vanquishing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis from the Republican primary, but also earning his endorsement.

Ivanka Trump posted numerous photos showing her in a vintage Robert Cavali dress Sunday

Ivanka also posted a photo with her husband, Jared Kushner, captioning it with 'My love'

Kim and Ivanka were last seen together at the latter's 43rd birthday party in Beverly Hills in October

According to Us Weekly, Kim and Ivanka's friendship goes back years with the pair first connecting during the 2014 Met Gala.

'The pair initially bonded at the event over motherhood and being new moms... But they continued to connect numerous times over the years,' a source told the magazine in October 2023.

When Trump was in the White House in 2018, Kim was pictured with her friend after meeting the then president over the issue of releasing non-violent drug offender Alice Marie Johnson from federal custody.

Kim was back in White House again in 2019 over similar issues. More recently, the two dined together for Kim's birthday at Funke restaurant in Beverley Hills.

'So blessed to have hit the jackpot of friends! I couldnt have ever dreamed I would be so lucky to call these girls my friends,' Kim wrote in an Instagram comment at the time.

Earlier this week, Ivanka was pictured out with her husband at one of Kim's favorite eateries, Nobu in Malibu, just after her step grandmother's funeral in Florida.

Kim and Ivanka's friendship first began at the 2014 Met Gala and has now continued

In 2018, Kim went to the White House to talk with Ivanka's father about criminal justice reform

The pair first bonded over being new mothers, according to reports

On Sunday, Donald Trump was joined at a rally at the NHU Arena in Manchester on Saturday night by 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.

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, we'll 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 nation's most prominent Black Republicans.
A Royal Navy sailor who smacked a female colleague's bottom four times as he chased her at an airbase and grabbed another woman's breasts in a bar has been found guilty of sexual assault.

Able Rate Ben Lynch, 33, faces being dismissed from the services after a five-day court martial at Bulford Military Court in Wiltshire.

He is said to have 'smirked' after molesting a third female colleague.

Lynch has now been convicted of two counts of sexual assault and one count of disgraceful conduct following his behaviour towards three victims.

He was also accused of lifting up one colleagues top while she was on FaceTime with her aunt and exclaiming oh, boobies - but was cleared of disgraceful conduct in relation to that alleged incident.

Able Rate Ben Lynch, 33, has been found guilty of charges after a five-day court martial at Bulford Military Court in Wiltshire

Lynch faces being dismissed from the Royal Navy after the attacks on three women at RNAS Culdrose, a Royal Navy airbase in Cornwall which is also known as HMS Seahawk

The court martial heard the offences happened at RNAS Culdrose, a Royal Navy airbase in Cornwall which is also known as HMS Seahawk.

Lynch was described as being 'loud' and 'inappropriate' when drinking, while one victim called him a 'joker'.

It was heard a female colleague reported Lynch after he sexually assaulted her and two other female sailors made complaints that he had acted inappropriately towards them as well.

One of his female colleagues said she was sexually assaulted at a bar.

She said: 'He came up behind me and grabbed me from behind on my breasts, both of them. It was sore.'

Prosecutor Colonel Jim Carmichael told how in another incident AB Lynch chased a sailor up the stairs, smacked her bottom four times and only stopped when she reached her room.

Lynch also sexually assaulted a third woman in her room.

The colleague said he banged on her door late at night after they had been drinking at a bar and she initially told him to 'f*** off' but eventually let him in and they chatted.

In her police interview, she said: 'He sat on the edge of the bed - we were generally chatting and having a laugh and he came and laid next to me.

'I felt a bit weird when he came next to me but I didnt feel uncomfortable, I didnt think he would do anything.'

The sailor said she started talking about going to see a man that she was with in an attempt to encourage Lynch to leave.

However, he became 'really sexual' and started asking questions about their sex life, before molesting her.

She said: 'I quickly pushed him off me - I felt very vulnerable and very uncomfortable.'

Giving evidence in court, the sailor said she was 'good friends' with Lynch and that he regularly came to her room to 'annoy' her as that was his 'personality'.

She said Lynch would often 'mess around', but added that 'this was serious'.

The sailor broke down in tears as she told the panel: 'Ive tried to get rid of it, to be honest.'

Lynch, who denied all offences, will be sentenced at a later date.
A former BBC journalist and academic is suing a university after losing out on a promotion, claiming that he has been discriminated against for his insomnia.

Media law lecturer Simon Pipe, 62, who teaches at Coventry University, has applied for a promotion four times between 2017 and 2020, but has been shot down each time for his lack of a PhD.

Mr Pipe has slammed the decision, arguing that his insomnia prevents him sleeping more than four hours per night, making it tougher to achieve the PhD necessary for the promotion.

Mr Pipe, from Warwickshire, moved into academia after a successful career in newspapers and the BBC, where he rose to the ranks of senior broadcast journalist

The academic is now suing the university for disability discrimination, claiming that his ADHD and sleep-related disorders make it impossible for him to do the necessary work.

Media law lecturer Simon Pipe, 62, who teaches at Coventry University, has applied for a promotion four times between 2017 and 2020, but has been shot down each time

But, lawyers for the Coventry University Higher Education Corporation say there was no 'business case' for promoting Mr Pipe, as there was no job there for him.

The former journalist was told his failure to meet research expectations or demonstrate a 'pathway' to a PhD meant he did not satisfy the university's requirements for higher roles.

Mr Pipe has already lost before an employment tribunal and an employment appeal judge, but has now taken his case to the Court of Appeal in London.

His barrister, Schona Jolly KC, said Mr Pipe had been working as a Grade six assistant lecturer in the university's School of Media and Performing Arts, as well as doing hourly paid work as a Grade seven lecturer.

But when he put himself forward for promotion to a Grade seven level, he was repeatedly knocked back by his superiors.

'Despite his experience, skills and exemplary teaching record, these applications/requests were rejected,' Ms Jolly said.

'He asserts here, as he did below, that this was because he could not satisfy the requirements of the respondent's academic progression process.

'In particular, he asserts that it was substantially more difficult for him to satisfy its criteria pertaining to having a PhD and demonstrating research excellence due to the impairments in his executive functioning.'

Mr Pipe claims that his insomnia prevents him sleeping more than four hours per night, making it tougher to achieve the PhD necessary for the promotion

Ms Jolly said Mr Pipe had been diagnosed with ADHD, which has a 'significant impact on his executive functioning, namely his organisation, planning, prioritisation, task initiation and completion, concentration and motivation.'

'The claimant also has a sleep disorder, sleeping less than four hours on average per night,' she continued.

What is insomnia? Insomnia affects sleeping patterns, where a person finds it difficult to sleep or stay asleep for long enough to feel refreshed. Symptoms of the disorder include waking up several times during the night, still feeling tired after waking up and difficulty concentrate during the day. The average adult needs seven to nine hours if sleep a night, while children need nine to 13 hours. There are multiple reasons behind the causes of insomnia. They include stress, anxiety or depression; a room that's too hot or cold and intake of alcohol, caffeine or nicotine. To treat the condition, the NHS recommends going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, exercising regularly during the day and making sure your bedroom is quiet and dark. Advertisement

'The claimant's sleep disorder results in constant fatigue and exacerbates the cognitive difficulties associated with ADHD.'

The academic's GP confirmed that the sleep problem 'can massively affect his concentration,' while a consultant in neurophysiology Dr Zenobia Zaiwalla said it would pose difficulties for him to complete a PhD.

'The severity of the sleep disturbance is likely to have an impact on his daytime functioning with in particular difficulty in planning and organisation and retaining information in addition to constant tiredness,' she said.

Mr Pipe's previous case against the university, during which he claimed the university failed to make 'reasonable adjustments' to cater for his problems, was thrown out by an employment tribunal in 2022.

The tribunal found the reason he was refused promotion was because there were no jobs available for him at the higher grade.

But appealing, Ms Jolly said that, although the 'business case' was based on a lack of available jobs, his disability was also part of the university's decision-making process.

'It is undisputed that the claimant performed at a very high standard throughout his employment, with a gift for teaching, innovation and student engagement,' she said.

'It is the claimant's case, and the tribunal found, that his disability substantially disadvantages his capacity to meet the academic/research requirements.'

She added: 'The consistent explanations regarding the PhD/research criteria in relation to the rejection of the claimant's applications were not merely constructive feedback - rather, they constituted the reasons for rejection, or at least a non-trivial or effective set of reasons.'

She also argued that the university's promotion 'framework' itself - and its focus on PhDs and research excellence - discriminated against Mr Pipe, and that this was not properly considered by the employment judges.

Lawyers for the Coventry University Higher Education Corporation say there was no 'business case' for promoting Mr Pipe, as there was no job there for him

Mr Pipe has already lost before an employment tribunal and an employment appeal judge, but has now taken his case to the Court of Appeal in London

'The tribunal failed at any point in its proportionality assessment to have regard to the discriminatory effect of the framework on the claimant,' she said.

'At a very minimum, the balancing exercise required the tribunal to weigh the respondent's aims/needs against the discriminatory impact on the claimant, but was entirely missing from the tribunal's judgment.

'Thus, in failing to consider the impact of the discriminatory measure itself, it failed to properly ask itself whether the measure was reasonably necessary or, alternatively, a fair balance had been struck.'

Arguing that the tribunal ruling should be upheld, the university's barrister Edmund Williams KC said disability laws do not require an employer to promote a disabled person if there is no job for them, and no business case to support creation of a role.

'Disabled employees in the workplace do not operate in a vacuum - like all employees, there must be jobs for them to do in the first place,' he told the court.

He added: 'The fact that Mr Pipe did not have a PhD was not a material cause of...the non-promotion.

'The material cause was the lack of a business case for his promotion and his refusal to engage with the university's efforts to support and facilitate his promotion journey.'

Lord Justice Bean, Lord Justice Moylan and Lady Justice Elisabeth Laing will give their decision on the appeal at a later date.
Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester airports are set to miss a summer deadline for installing new security scanners that will end the 100ml limit on liquids in hand luggage.

Ministers had given airports a target of June 1 to install the high-tech machines, which will reduce hassle for passengers, speed up security and reduce waste by ending the need for mini toiletries.

But Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester say they do not expect to have the scanners ready by then - despite the deadline already having been moved back from 2022. Gatwick gave a deadline of the first three months of 2025.

Consumer group Which? warned it would lead to delays as customers would expect hand luggage rules to have changed only to find out that was not the case.

Air passengers have faced longer queues for security checks and strict limits on the quantity of liquids they can carry in their hand luggage since the authorities foiled a UK terror cell's plot to blow up transatlantic airliners with liquid bombs in 2006.

The 'Next Generation Security Checkpoints' - intended to slash waiting times by allowing passengers to leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on baggage - are only in one UK airport

Part of one of the 'very heavy' scanners being moved into place at Heathrow Airport

The new scanners, which create a 3D image of the contents of bags, allow airports to ditch the 100ml liquid limit and the requirement that travellers put them in a clear plastic bag.

Passengers will be able to take two litres of liquid inside their bags and will not have to remove laptops.

The new scanners are already used in countries including the US and Australia.

Trials began in the UK in 2018 and some airports, including London City and Teesside, have already rolled out the technology.

But Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester are expected to need more time to install the new equipment across all lanes, meaning some will still use the old scanners this summer.

Aviation commentator Sally Gethin told the BBC: '[The scanners] are very heavy. Sometimes the floors in the actual terminal have to be reinforced.'

Rory Boland, travel editor at Which?, said: 'We're now going to go into a situation where different [UK] airports have different rules, so at some places you will need to get the liquids out in advance, at others you won't.'

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin tested out London City Airport's 'fancy' new scanners in May

Warning this could cause confusion at security, he added: 'You only need a couple of passengers to not be prepared to end up having to wait an extra 10, 20, 30 minutes.

READ MORE - Moment passengers erupt into applause after diverted plane makes shaky landing at Gatwick Advertisement

'It is disappointing that we're in a situation just months ahead of the peak travel period... and major airports aren't ready.'

A spokesman for MAG, which operates Manchester, Stansted and East Midlands airports, said: 'We continue to make good progress at all three of our airports on the introduction of new security screening equipment, as part of the UK-wide programme.

'This will see the new scanners in place on a large number of our security lanes by June 2024, with the full completion of the programme expected the following year.'

Gatwick said: 'London Gatwick will have made significant progress installing state of the art next generation security scanners by June 2024 in both terminals.

'We currently plan to have completed the major logistical operation required to install the remaining scanners in Q1 2025, after the busy summer peak period has concluded.'

Passengers queue for check in at Manchester Airport's Terminal 1
Nicola Sturgeon is facing fury today after Scottish government papers showed her Cabinet did discuss using Covid to boost the drive to break up the UK.

Despite repeatedly attempting to 'gazump' Westminster with announcements during the pandemic, the former SNP leader was always adamant she had no intention of politicising it.

On June 30, 2020 Ms Sturgeon told a briefing on the raging crisis that anyone 'trotting out political or constitutional arguments is in the wrong place completely'.

But records of a Scottish Cabinet meeting from the same day, highlighted at the Covid Inquiry, showed it covered 'restarting work on independence and a referendum' and suggested that arguments should 'reflect the experience of the coronavirus crisis'.

Scottish Tories branded the revelation 'disgusting' saying showed the pandemic was not the SNP's 'sole focus' at the time. They tabled a question at Holyrood demanding Humza Yousaf came to explain the situation this afternoon - but the motion was voted down by 63 votes to 53 with one abstention.

Nicola Sturgeon (pictured in June 2020) is facing fury today after Scottish government papers showed her Cabinet did discuss using Covid to boost the drive to break up the UK

Scotland was still tightly in the grip of the Covid crisis in June 2020

Despite repeatedly attempting to 'gazump' Boris Johnson (pictured) with announcements during the pandemic, the former SNP leader was always adamant she had no intention of politicising it

Ms Sturgeon was seen as leading a strong response to Covid in the initial stages, although public support for her performance cooled later.

She has since quit as SNP leader and first minister, and is now caught up in the ongoing furore over the nationalists' finances - although she denies any wrongdoing.

The Scottish Cabinet minutes were aired at the Covid Inquiry on Friday it took evidence from Kenneth Thomson, who was head of the Covid Coordination Directorate north of the border at the time.

Jamie Dawson KC, lead counsel for the inquiry's module on Scotland, read Mr Thomson the June 30, 2020 minutes.

They said the Cabinet 'agreed that consideration should be given to restarting work on independence and a referendum, with the arguments reflecting the experience of the coronavirus crisis and developments on EU Exit'.

Mr Dawson asked whether that showed the Scottish government was trying to 'politicise' the situation.

Mr Thomson denied that but acknowledged that 'as we moved out of the lockdown restrictions, more of the ordinary business of the Scottish Government started to resume, including this bit'.

Former ministers were enraged by Ms Sturgeon's habit of trying to upstage the UK government during Covid,.

Giving evidence to the official inquiry last month, Matt Hancock complained that she would 'spin' policies to make it look like she was ahead of Westminster, even when issues had been discussed collectively.

The Covid-19 Inquiry was shown WhatsApp messages from Mr Hancock from July 2020, regarding communications around travel from Spain and quarantine.

When told that No10 wanted to communicate the matter 'ASAP', Mr Hancock replied: 'Me too. It will leak anyway  and the Scots will try to get their announcement out first.'

How Nicola Sturgeon 'gazumped' her way to a Covid support surge Nicola Sturgeon spent much of the initial phase of the pandemic elbowing in at the top table of UK politics. Taking full advantage of the devolved institutions having broad power over health policies, the then-First Minister quickly launched her own TV briefings for Scotland. Because those were at lunchtime, it meant she was often able to pre-empt what the UK government was going to announce in the evening. She also frequently took a harder line on policies, pitting her approach against that of Westminster, which was often agonising about civil liberties. As far back as April 2020 she used an appearance to declare that the lockdown would stay in place for 'at least' another three weeks - hours before a crunch meeting of Cobra, where the official decision was to be taken. Nicola Sturgeon spent much of the initial phase of the pandemic elbowing in at the top table of UK politics The 'gazumping' also included announcements on allowing multiple households to meet indoors. Ms Sturgeon was said to have forced the government into tougher border restrictions in the middle of 2020. Former health secretary Matt Hancock has accused her of 'bouncing' the UK government into face mask rules. He said ministers were 'blindsided' by her announcement in August 2020 and decided to U-turn in order to avoid 'a big spat with the Scots'. Ms Sturgeon also made great play of maintaining stronger messaging when the Stay at Home branding was dropped by Boris Johnson. And weeks after the UK Government dropped its daily news briefings, Ms Sturgeon was still benefiting from daily exposure on television. Whether intentional or not, the antics certainly saw a surge in support for independence. Backing for 'yes' reached 55 per cent in polls in the summer of 2020. But later in the pandemic much of the lustre came off Ms Sturgeon's performance, with the UK taking credit for the vaccine drive and a more timely easing of lockdown. Advertisement

Giving evidence to the official inquiry last month, Matt Hancock complained that Ms Sturgeon would 'spin' policies to make it look like she was ahead of Westminster, even when issues had been discussed collectively

By August 2020 polls were showing support for independence riding high, in part because of Ms Sturgeon's response to Covid

'We found it much more difficult when decisions went up to first minister level, particularly with Nicola Sturgeon.

'Because we would find that sometimes some kind of spin was put on what was essentially substantively the same decision. So it was a frustration, I've got to be honest about that.'

Scottish Conservative shadow constitution secretary Donald Cameron said today: 'This astonishing and shameful revelation from the UK Covid inquiry explains why Nicola Sturgeon and many of her senior colleagues were so keen to delete their WhatsApp messages.

'If a discussion on pushing their independence obsession was talked about around the cabinet table, we can only imagine the extent of the SNP's crass constitutional opportunism on private messaging.

'The Scottish people are entitled to know why a government that assured us public safety was its sole focus was gaming its push for another independence referendum while the death toll mounted.

'Humza Yousaf was a senior figure around the cabinet table at the time. Did he voice any objections to this disgracefully skewed priority? If not, why not?

'The Scottish people deserve an explanation for the scandalous decision to focus on SNP political objectives during a public health emergency.'
Three members of an air ambulance crew were tragically killed after their helicopter crashed late Saturday in Oklahoma, officials said.

The crash is understood to have occurred on the east side of the town of Hydro, in the west of the state, after a control center lost contact with the Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter crew shortly before 11:30pm on Saturday evening, the company said in a statement Sunday.

The crew was returning to its base in nearby Weatherford, 70 miles west of Oklahoma City, after completing a patient care transport to the capital.

Nearby Air Evac teams assisted law enforcement with the search for the crew members.

The company did not say where the Bell 206L3 was found and did not immediately release the victims' names, though its website states that crews typically consist of a pilot, a flight nurse and a flight paramedic.

The crash is understood to have occurred on the east side of the town of Hydro, in the west of the state

The company did not say where the Bell 206L3 was found and did not immediately release the victims' names

Air Evac Lifeteam operates over 150 air ambulance bases across 18 states in the US, according to its website

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the crash, which is understood to have taken place near the 1010 road.

Local law enforcement is said to have blocked off roads going to and from the crash site.

The NTSB is set to examine air traffic control communications, radar data, weather reports, witness statements and a 72-hour background of the chopper's pilot as part of its investigation.

The board will look into whether any issues may have affected the pilot's ability to fly the aircraft safely, among other information.

A spokesperson told the New York Times in a statement: 'It is important to note that N.T.S.B. does not determine cause in the early part of the investigative process.

'This is considered the fact-gathering phase of the investigation.'

Air Evac Lifeteam operates over 150 air ambulance bases across 18 states in the US, according to its website.

The company says that roughly 90% of its patient transports originate from a rural area.
The BBC should not have 'criminal tools in its armoury' to prosecute viewers for not paying the TV licence fee, the Culture Secretary said today - as she hinted that wealthier people could be made to pay more.

Lucy Frazer said an examination of the broadcaster's powers would be part of the next licence review. Nearly 130 people are prosecuted every day for failing to pay the flat fee, with some handed fines of up to 1,000.

These convictions are back in the spotlight amid the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, which saw hundreds of postmasters wrongly convicted due to faulty software.

Asked about the issue today, Ms Frazer told Times Radio: "I don't think it's appropriate for the BBC to have criminal tools in its armoury in relation to prosecutions.

'I think that there are issues in relation to criminal prosecutions, especially for those people who are the most vulnerable."

Lucy Frazer said an examination of the BBC's powers would be part of the next licence review

The TV licence, which funds the BBC, is set to rise by 10.50 pounds in April to 169.50 a year.

Appearing on Radio 4's Today programme, Ms Frazer was asked whether it was right that someone on a six-figure salary pays the same licence fee as someone on the minimum wage.

She replied: I want to ensure that its fair for those who pay for it, and youve identified one aspect of fairness.

Asked the same question again, she said: I appreciate that you think thats a really simple question that I could answer to day but thats why Ive ordered an extensive review of all these questions and you cant just answer that question in isolation.

'Im putting together an expert panel to look at how the media market is changing  thats a very complex issue.

No10 said a discussion about decriminalising TV licence evasion could only come when the BBC's charter is next reviewed.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: 'That's something the Government could only look at as part of the charter review, rather than outside of the process, that's my understanding.

'We'd obviously be concerned if there were instances where prosecutions were taking place when it was not suitable or in the interests of justice.

'Those are questions for the BBC in the first instance.'

Today Ms Frazer also addressed plans to give Ofcom powers to regulate the BBC's website.

The reforms, announced as part of the BBC mid-term review, would give the media regulator more powers over BBC's online services, meaning it could gain enforcement action over BBC News website articles it does not believe meet relevant broadcast standards.

Currently, the communications regulator is only able to issue an opinion, but Government recommendations say Ofcom will be given increased oversight over the BBC's online public services, including its YouTube channel.

Asked if she believed the BBC was sometimes guilty of bias, Ms Frazer told Times Radio: 'We have seen audiences are feeling like impartiality in the BBC is on a downward trajectory. We have heard that 39 per cent of complaints last year were about impartiality when the previous year only 19 [per cent] were.

'So trust in the BBC in relation to impartiality is going down and that is why the BBC rightly recognises it needs to do something about this and it is taking on board the recommendations that we are putting forward and have discussed with the BBC.'

Separately, Ms Frazer said the corporation had been biased 'on occasion', citing its reporting of a hospital attack in Gaza.

Ms Frazer refused to say which other broadcasters she believed might be impartial, saying they were in 'totally different positions' from the publicly funded corporation.

She told Sky News that 'evidence' suggested there was a 'perception amongst audiences' that there was some bias at the BBC.

The Government's intervention follows a string of impartiality controversies about the corporation's highest paid star Gary Lineker and his political tweets

When it was put to her that perceptions are not necessarily reality, she said: 'There are only perceptions and perceptions are important.

'What's important about the BBC is that it's funded by the public, so the perception of audiences of the public are important.'

And speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today programme, the minister declined to say whether she thinks it is right for someone on a six-figure salary to pay the same TV licence fee as someone on minimum wage, suggesting it was not a 'simple question'.

'I appreciate that you think that's a really simple question that I could answer today,' she said.

'But that's why I have quite an extensive review into all these questions and you can't just answer that question in isolation.

'I'm putting together an expert panel to look at how the media market is changing. That's a very, very complex issue which will require expert evidence on... what revenues does the BBC need, what can it do commercially that it's not doing at the moment?'

She said she would be 'led by evidence' in her review and insisted it would be 'inappropriate' for her to express a view on the matter.

The Government said its recommendations are expected to be implemented in a timely manner, following talks with the BBC and Ofcom.

Ofcom, which has authority over TV, radio and video-on-demand services through a broadcasting code, has also been given a new legally binding responsibility to review more of the BBC's complaints decisions.

Alongside the Ofcom reforms is a legal responsibility for the BBC board to actively oversee its own complaints process.

The review also recommends that the BBC considers how diversity and opinion could be better represented, as the Government says some audience groups, including disabled viewers and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, feel underrepresented by the corporation.

Ms Frazer said the corporation 'needs to adapt' to the reforms or risk 'losing the trust of the audience it relies on'.

The BBC's complaints process, called BBC First, was introduced at the last Charter Review in 2017, and the mid-term review concluded that it does allow licence fee payers to hold the BBC directly accountable, but said impartiality continues to be an ongoing issue for audiences.

Under BBC First, audience complaints are normally addressed by the corporation before they can be escalated to Ofcom.

The Government said its recommendations are expected to be implemented in a timely manner, following talks with the BBC and Ofcom

To improve the complaints process, the BBC board, which previously had a responsibility to oversee only the establishment of a complaints handling process, will now oversee the process as a whole.

Non-executive board directors and external advisors on the BBC's Editorial Guidelines and Standards Committee will also be given greater powers to scrutinise and challenge BBC senior management's complaint handling.

Furthermore, the job role that has responsibility for complaints handling will now report directly to the director-general rather than the director responsible for editorial policy, to separate pre-broadcast editorial policy and post-broadcast complaints resolution.

The review has also recommended the BBC develop a public strategy that outlines its intended partnerships with others and said the impact of commercial changes, including the introduction of a BBC Commercial Board in 2022, needs to be closely monitored.

A BBC spokesperson said: 'The mid-term review was designed to look at the BBC's governance and regulation. We're pleased the Government's findings reflect that overall these are working well.

'With regard to the BBC's impartiality, no other organisation takes its commitment to impartiality more seriously. We have well-established and detailed plans to sustain and further improve standards. We know this matters to audiences and the BBC continues to be the number one source for trusted news, with the highest scores for impartiality and accuracy.

'During discussions over the mid-term review, we proposed and implemented a number of reforms, including strengthening our complaints procedures, which now form part of the conclusions. We are pleased the Government has fully taken our proposals onboard. We remain committed to continuous improvement to ensure we deliver for all licence fee payers.

'The BBC is operationally and editorially independent and we will continue to engage constructively with Government, and our regulator Ofcom, over the second half of this Charter and as we look ahead to a new Charter in 2028.'
Bengaluru, Jan 22 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday flayed the BJP for installing Lord Ram's Murti in Ayodhya temple without installing Laxman, Sita and Anjaneya.

"They (BJP) are separating Rama. This is incorrect. And Ram is incomplete with the installation of Laxman, Sita and Anjaneya," he told reporters here.

Siddaramaiah also said that the Congress party worships Lord Ram of Mahatma Gandhi, not BJP's.

He said that the Congress party is not against Lord Ram, but devotees of Him, and also accused the BJP of trying to obstruct the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam.

"Sri Ramchandra should not be confined to any political party's agenda. We refute the narrative that we are against Sri Ramchandra. We are also devoted to Lord Ram," he told reporters after inaugurating a temple in Hirenhalli dedicated to Lord Ram, Lord Hanuman and Lord Laxman.

This temple has been built not for reaping political gains, but out of genuine devotion to Lord Ram, Siddaramaiah said. "The essence of Lord Ram remains the same everywhere," he added.

The CM also accused the BJP for obstructing a peaceful padayatra being carried out by party leader Rahul Gandhi in Assam.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was denied entry into Srimanta Sankardeva's shrine situated in Assam's Batadrava Than, the birthplace of the Vaishnavite saint.

"We want to visit the temple (Batadrava Than). What crime have I committed that I cannot visit the temple? ... Earlier we were invited but now the administration is saying that we cannot go. Perhaps only one person can go to the temple," he said in an apparent attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

UNI BDN AKS
Just one day before the New Hampshire Republican primary, former president Donald Trump may take the stand to tell a jury what he thinks about the woman who says he sexually assaulted her in the 1990s.

Trump could testify as soon as Monday in the defamation trial over his 2019 comments branding Carroll a liar who faked a sexual attack to sell a memoir. He plans to be in court as the New York trial resumes after a weekend break.

Because a different jury found last year that Trump sexually abused Carroll, U.S. District Judge Judge Lewis A. Kaplan has ruled that if the former president takes the stand now, he won't be allowed to say she concocted her allegation or that she was motivated by financial or political considerations.

But even while just watching the proceedings, the voluble ex-president and current Republican front-runner hasn't checked his contempt for the case.

Writing on her Civil Discourse blog, former prosecutor Joyce Vance wrote that a Trump testifying can only end badly as the trial is to see who much in damages he must pay Carroll.

'The smart money says there's no way that his lawyers would expose him to cross-examination at the hands of Carroll's highly competent legal team,' she wrote.

'Only the amount of damages is in question, and that's not a topic Trump's testimony is particularly helpful with; he can only make it worse. Those damages probably go higher if Trump takes the stand and acts in his predictable fashion,' Vance added.

Former President Donald Trump leaves his apartment building in New York, Wednesday, January 17

During Carroll's testimony last week, Trump complained to his lawyers about a 'witch hunt' and a 'con job' loudly enough so that the judge threatened to throw him out of the courtroom if he kept it up

In this courtroom sketch, E. Jean Carroll, right, turns around towards former President Donald Trump

While Carroll testified last week, he complained to his lawyers about a 'witch hunt' and a 'con job' loudly enough so that the judge threatened to throw Trump out of the courtroom if he kept it up.

Trump piped down and stayed in court, then held a news conference where he deplored the 'nasty judge.'

'Its a disgrace, frankly, whats happening,' Trump told reporters, repeating his claim that Carroll's allegation was 'a made-up, fabricated story.'

Besides tangling with Kaplan, Trump bucked the New York state judge in his recent civil business fraud trial involving claims that he inflated his wealth.

Trump, who denies any wrongdoing, delivered a brief closing argument of sorts without committing to rules for summations and assailed the judge from the witness stand.

He also was fined a total of $15,000 for what the judge deemed violations of a gag order concerning comments about court staffers. Trump's attorneys are appealing the order.

In Carroll's case, her lawyers have implored the judge to make Trump swear, before any testimony, that he understands and accepts the courts restrictions on what he can say.

'There are any number of reasons why Mr. Trump might perceive a personal or political benefit from intentionally turning this trial into a circus,' attorney Roberta Kaplan wrote in a letter to the judge, who is no relation.

People hold signs outside the Manhattan federal court in New York in support of E. Jean Carroll's allegations

In this courtroom sketch, prospective jurors file into the courtroom as Donald Trump, third left, stands surrounded by his defense team. Alina Habba, fourth left, Trump's lead defense attorney, stands beside him. E. Jean Carroll, background second from right, stands with her attorney Roberta Kaplan, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, in New York

Trump is contending with four criminal cases as well as the civil fraud case and Carroll's lawsuit as the presidential primary season gets into gear.

He has been juggling court and campaign appearances, using both to argue that he's being persecuted by Democrats terrified of his possible election.

Trump is expected to travel after Monday's court session to an evening campaign event in New Hampshire, which holds its Republican presidential primary Tuesday.

His trips to court at times also have amplified media coverage of developments that he likes - such as an accounting professor's testimony for Trump's defense in the fraud trial - and his criticisms of developments that he doesn't.

He regularly addressed the news cameras waiting outside the fraud trial in a New York state court.

Cameras aren't allowed in the federal courthouse where the Carroll trial is taking place, so he at one point left and held a news conference at one of his New York buildings even as his accuser continued testifying against him.

'Im here because Donald Trump assaulted me, and when I wrote about it, he said it never happened. He lied, and he shattered my reputation,' Carroll, a former longtime Elle magazine advice columnist, told jurors and Trump while he was still in court.

Trump doesnt have to attend or give testimony in the civil case.

Trump's lawyer Alina Habba walked with the former president to his motorcade to make the way to court last week

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, E. Jean Carroll and their lawyers stand for the jury as they attend jury selection

He stayed away last year from the prior trial, where a different jury awarded Carroll $5 million after deciding that Trump sexually abused her in 1996 and made defamatory comments about her in 2022. Trump is appealing that verdict.

For complex legal reasons, Carrolls defamation claims were divided between two lawsuits. Hence the second trial, where she's seeking over $10 million in damages.

Trump has said his lawyers advised him not to dignify the first trial by attending it. He's attending the second one, he's said, because of what he views as the judge's animus.

Trump lawyer Alina Habba told the court in a letter that he might take the stand because, even with the judge's restrictions, 'he can still offer considerable testimony in his defense.'

Among other things, he can testify about his state of mind when he made the statements that got him sued and about how his comments came as Carroll was doing media interviews and journalists were asking him about her, Habba wrote.

She also suggested he could 'show his lack of ill will or spite' by talking about how he 'corrected' his initial denial of having ever met Carroll.

The revision happened after a reporter called Trump's attention to a 1987 photo of him, Carroll and their then-spouses at a charity event. Trump responded that he was 'standing with my coat on in a line - give me a break.'

The Associated Press typically does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted unless they come forward publicly, as Carroll has done.
Russia's parliament is considering new legislation which would give the state the power to seize the property of people convicted for defamation of the armed forces or for calling publicly for actions that undermine state security.

Criticising what Moscow calls its 'special military operation' in Ukraine has effectively been a crime in Russia from the day it began almost two years ago, but the new bill aims to make penalties for that even tougher.

It would allow the state to seize the property of Russians who have left the country and have criticised the war but who continue to rely on revenue from renting out their houses or apartments in Russia.

The move has drawn comparisons with the witch hunts of the 1930s under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin with their 'enemy of the state' rhetoric, and could affect thousands of Russians who have spoken out against Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The speaker of the State Duma lower house of parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, has dubbed the new bill 'the scoundrel law'.

'Everyone who tries to destroy Russia, betrays it, must be published accordingly and repay the damage to the country in the form of their property,' he said at the weekend while announcing the submission of the bill.

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech in support of the war in Ukraine

Criticising what Moscow calls its 'special military operation' in Ukraine has effectively been a crime in Russia from the day it began almost two years ago, but the new bill aims to make penalties for that even tougher

News of the new bill comes as Vladimir Putin's campaign staff today presented scores of boxes filled with signed petitions supporting his run in the March presidential election - a vote in which he's almost certain to win another term in office.

Putin, although closely tied to the dominant United Russia party, is running as an independent, a path that would prolong his grip on Russia for at least another six years.

The 71-year-old leader has twice used his leverage in the past to amend the constitution so he could theoretically stay in power until he's in his mid-80s.

He is already the longest-serving Kremlin leader since Soviet dictator Stalin, who died in 1953.

Russian election law requires independent candidates to present at least 300,000 signatures gathered from 40 regions of the country to get on the ballot.

People walk past an election campaign stand of Russian President Vladimir Putin for collecting signatures to support him as a candidate for the upcoming presidential election, at the GUM department store in Moscow, on January 19, 2024

Russian news reports said Putin's campaign staff brought in 95 cardboard boxes, filled with signed petitions, to the Central Elections Commission. Previous reports said the campaign had collected more than 2 million signatures.

The commission is to finalise the list of candidates by February 10, with the elections penned in for March 17.

So far, three candidates have been approved for the ballot, none of whom have a serious chance against Putin.

They are Nikolai Kharitonov of the Communist Party, Leonid Slutsky of the Liberal Democrats and Vladislav Davankov of the New People party.
Keir Starmer vowed to back 'woke' charities today as he waded into the culture wars, and attacked Margaret Thatcher's 'no such thing as society' refrain.

In a speech at a civil society summit in central London, the Labour leader said the Government was engaged in 'McCarthyism' by trying to find 'woke agendas' in British civic institutions.

Highlighting criticism of the RNLI and National Trust, Sir Keir said the voice of charities had been 'ignored' and he wanted to create a 'Society of Service'.

He also took aim at the Tory doyenne, just months after he sparked a bitter backlash from his own activists by praising her contribution.

Keir Starmer attacked Margaret Thatcher's 'no such thing as society' refrain today as he accused ministers of 'sabotaging' charities

In a speech at a civil society summit in central London , Sir Keir said the Government was engaged in 'McCarthyism' by trying to find 'woke agendas' in British civic institutions

Sir Keir said the voice of charities had been 'ignored' and he wanted to create a 'Society of Service'

Former Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has previously dubbed the RNLI a 'migrant taxi service' for its role in helping asylum seekers in small boats in the English Channel to safety.

The National Trust has also been accused of being 'woke' for reviewing the influence of slavery on its properties.

Sir Keir said the Government had 'got themselves so tangled up in culture wars of their own making' that it had 'demonised' the RNLI rather than working with it to solve the Channel migrants crisis.

He continued: 'Instead of working with the National Trust so more people can learn about  and celebrate  our culture and our history, they've managed to demean their work.

'In its desperation to cling on to power at all costs, the Tory Party is undertaking a kind of weird McCarthyism, trying to find woke agendas in the very civic institutions they once regarded with respect.'

What did Thatcher say about society? In an interview with Woman's Own in 1987, Margaret Thatcher said: 'I think we have gone through a period when too many children and people have been given to understand 'I have a problem, it is the Government's job to cope with it!' or 'I have a problem, I will go and get a grant to cope with it!' 'I am homeless, the Government must house me!' and so they are casting their problems on society and who is society? There is no such thing! 'There are individual men and women and there are families and no government can do anything except through people and people look to themselves first.' Advertisement

Turning to Lady Thatcher, Sir Keir said: 'One Conservative prime minister said there was "no such thing as society." And then we watched individualism run rampant.

'Cameron talked about the Big Society. A great idea, in principle. But when austerity kicked in, we ended up with the Poor Society.

'Now we need a new vision for a new era. A renewed social contract. A new focus on those who build the bonds that connect us, the communities that nurture us, and the local institutions that support us.'

Last month Sir Keir was roasted by Labour activists after he hailed Baroness Thatcher for acting to 'drag Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism'.

The comments were the latest effort to distance himself from the Corbyn era, as both parties push towards an election this year.

But critics pointed out that Sir Keir once represented striking miners for free as a lawyer, and backed the nationalisation of key infrastructure.

And the Corbynite Momentum group said that Sir Keir had 'brought shame on the party' with the remarks.

In his speech at the Civil Society Summit this morning, the Labour leader said the Conservatives were waging a war on 'the proud spirit of service in this country'.

Sir Keir said: 'It's desperate, it's divisive, it's damaging.'

However, Rishi Sunak claimed Sir Keir's speech was an attempt to 'distract' from his lack of policies.

The PM told broadcasters Sir Keir 'can't actually say what he would do differently to run this country'.

Rishi Sunak claimed Sir Keir's speech was an attempt to 'distract' from his lack of policies

'That's because he doesn't have a plan  can't say how he'd bring the number of small boat arrivals down, can't say how he would fund his 28 billion green spending spree which just means higher taxes,' Mr Sunak said.

'And the contrast is clear. Our plan is working. The boat numbers are coming down, the longest waits in the NHS have been virtually eliminated and this month we're cutting people's taxes.

'So if we stick with the plan, we can build a brighter future. The alternative is just to go back to square one with Keir Starmer, he doesn't have a plan and he can't tell you what he would do differently.'
An art student 'terrorist' facing one of the longest jail sentences handed to a woman in Russia told a court today: 'My conscience is clear'.

Daria Trepova, 26, is accused of knowingly blowing up prominent Vladimir Putin propagandist Vladlen Tatarsky, 40, by handing him a bomb hidden in a statuette.

Prosecutors are demanding that she is locked away for 28 years - until 2052, when she would be 54.

They claim she deliberately passed the bomb to Tatarsky - whose real name was Maxim Fomin - in a St Petersburg cafe on the orders of Ukrainian intelligence.

Trepova insists she believed the statuette of Tatarsky contained a listening device, and so is innocent of deliberate murder.

Daria Trepova (seen in court today), 26, is accused of knowingly blowing up prominent Putin propagandist Vladlen Tatarsky , 40, by handing him a bomb hidden in a statuette

Trepova (seen left in court today and right) insists she believed the statuette of Tatarsky contained a listening device, and so is innocent of deliberate murder

The explosion killed Tatarsky and wounded more than 50 in April last year

She claims Ukraine believed she, too, would be killed - although, despite being close to the blast, she was unscathed and fled the scene before being detained.

'I was basically sent to my death with a bomb,' she said, referring to her Ukrainian handlers.

But state prosecutors reject her version and have applied for one of the longest sentences for a woman in modern Russian legal history.

The explosion killed Tatarsky and wounded more than 50 in April last year.

In her final statement in a St Petersburg court, Trepova - who does not deny links to Ukrainian intelligence - said her conscience was clear.

'I am very pained and ashamed that my naivety and gullibility led to such catastrophic consequences,' she told victims and their relatives in court.

'I am very sorry for what you had to go through because of me.

'Such pain and such horror. I have already asked for forgiveness from the victims.

'One of them said: 'God will forgive'. I felt a little mockery in this,' she said.

'This hurt me because I consider myself a believer, and my state was calm, because I am sure that before God, at least, my conscience is clear.'

She did not intend to kill Tatarsky, she said, and her supporters say she is being made a scapegoat to hide failings by Russian secret services.

Her lawyer Daniil Berman said Trepova 'did not know and could not have known what was inside the bust'.

A video is believed to show Daria Trepova, 26, walking to the cafe carrying a box containing what may have been the statuette that killed the Russia military blogger

Vladlen Tatarsky, 40, is seen moments before the explosion with the small statue at a St. Petersburg cafe

Suspect Daria Trepova was filmed moments after passing the box with the statuette to the war propaganda blogger Vladlen Tatarsky. She claims she didn't know it was an explosive

Tatarsky was killed in a blast at Street Food Bar No. 1, located in the St Petersburg city centre

She had remained in the explosion zone after handing the statue, and could have been killed, suggesting she did not know it was a bomb.

'I thought there was a wiretap in the figurine, not a bomb,' she said in court in St Petersburg.

'I didn't provide medical assistance to the victims because I was cowardly and was saving my life. I am sorry. Forgive me.'

Despite this, her trial has been fast-tracked and 'terrorist' Trepova is set to be jailed for more than 25 years - the normal limit for women murderers.

There has been an outpouring of anger over Trepova, and her case is proceeding under Russia's terrorism laws which allow for a longer sentence.

A judge will rule on Thursday on the verdict and sentence.

As the trial continued, Trepova's partner pleaded with the person he claims to be responsible for the killing to come forward and admit their guilt.

Trepova's partner, Dmitry Krylov, accused Russian journalist Roman Popkov of orchestrating the assassination of Tatarsky by tricking Trepova's into handing him the bomb that killed him in the bar.

'I'm certain that you had a hand in sending Dasha to be sacrificed without her even realizing it. I know that Dasha [thought she was] completing some kind of 'test' that you gave her, and now it's obvious that there were never plans for any kind of test,' Krylov wrote on social media adressing Popkov.

Darya Trepova is pictured inside a glass cage in court today as she faces 28 years in prison

Daniil Berman, the lawyer of Darya Trepova, speaks with journalists after a court hearing in Saint Petersburg, Russia, January 22

'A person who sincerely wanted to help the injured and the sick, a person who always stood for the truth, a person who's been driven all her life by the immense power of helping others and is incapable of harming anyone

'You (or people close to you) made that person into a walking bomb who was supposed to die, but, by some miracle, survived,' he wrote.

Krylov then urged Popkov to do something corageous 'at least once' in his life by coming forward with the truth so spare Trepova the worst of the punishment.

'I ask you to explain how it all happened. Describe how you, or people connected to you, convinced Dasha to take the figurine to Tatarsky, not knowing what it contained. Show the screenshots of your messages. Take the blame on yourself.

'Go ahead, promote your views, I'm not concerned about that, but it's vitally important that you say that Dasha truly didn't know anything and was used  after all, that's the truth, and the truth is what I'm defending, and I'd like to think it's what you're defending too,' Krylov added.

Separately, prominent military figure and hardline pro-war MP Lt-Gen Andrey Gurulev demanded the return of Gulag hard labour camps on the Kolyma River, as in Stalin times.

Gulags were the ultimate symbol of barbarism in the Soviet era, with an estimated 1.6 million mainly political detainees dying in the harsh Siberian conditions.

Pro-Putin military propagandist and hardline MP Lt-Gen Andrey Gurulev said: 'If a person goes against the state, measures must be taken.

The moment of the explosion that killed Kremlin top war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky and wounded dozens of people

A view of the scene of an explosion at the cafe in St. Petersburg, Russia, on Sunday

'People say to me that I want to organise a new Gulag.

'Frankly, I do want those who today are harming our Motherland to be inside [a Gulag] waving their pickaxes happily around the Kolyma Road.'

The extremist general said: 'Today the country is at war.

'In my serious opinion, when there is a war, what kind of opposition can there be? The only goal for all of us is to defeat Nazism.'
Rome's famous 'hot priest' calendar rarely features members of the clergy, the photographer behind one of Italy's best-selling souvenirs has confessed.

The black and white calendar, released every year for more than two decades, depicts a selection of cassock-wearing hunks said to be Catholic prelates.

However, according to the snapper who takes the images for the A4-sized calendar seen on newsstands throughout Rome, few of the models are truly priests.

Speaking to Italian newspaper Il Post, Piero Pazzi said: 'It's true, they are not all priests, but the intention was to give a profile to priests as a symbol of Rome, which owes so much to the Vatican and the Catholic Church in general.'

The flip calendar, officially known as Calendario Romano (Roman Calendar), costs around 8 (7) and has been published since 2003.

Rome's famous 'hot priest' calendar (pictured: the 2004 edition) rarely features members of the clergy, the photographer behind one of Italy 's best-selling souvenirs has confessed

Anyone walking Rome's ancient streets will regularly see handsome cassock-wearing 'priests' smiling back at them from souvenir shops and kiosks all over the city, displayed among fridge magnets, tea towels and models of Swiss Guard soldiers.

The calendar has developed a cult-like status over the years, with estimates suggesting that thousands are sold every year.

Each month in the flip calendar features a black and white photo of a young man wearing a priest's garb, complete with the white collar and a black cassock.

But according to Mr Pazzi, not all is as it seems.

Many of the young men he has photographed for the souvenir are not priests, he confessed to Il Post, telling the publication that some aren't even Italian.

A few of the young men who have appeared in the black and white photos have been Spanish, he admits, including one who was working as an estate agent.

Those photos, he explains, were taken when Mr Pazzi was living in Seville.

Not even Giovanni Galizia (the priest who has always featured of the cover and bears a striking resemblance to Hollywood megastar Matt Damon), is a priest, according to the Italian newspaper.

The black and while calendar (seen on display at a Venice kiosk), released every year for more than two decades, depicts a selection of cassock-wearing hunks said to be Catholic prelates

Galizia was 17 when he first appeared on the calendar in 2004. He is now 36 and works as a flight attendant in his native Palermo.

'No, I'm not a priest. I can confirm it. I would remember it if I was,' he said in an interview with Italy's Fanpage magazine.

'(Pazzi) asked me if I wanted to take that photo and I said: 'Why not'. From there this never-ending story was born,' he said at the time.

'But I have never been a model, nor have I ever had this type of ambition.'

Galizia said due to an agreement made between him and the photographer back in 2004, he doesn't even get any royalties, despite his numerous appearance on the cover which result in him being recognised to this day.

Dispelling some of the myths surrounding the calendar in relation to how the Vatican itself feels about its publication, Mr Pazzi said the Holy See has never issued a warning or complaint against him.

Another report he stressed was false related to claims that some of the proceeds made from the sale of the calendar go towards a charity supporting victims of abuse by the Church, SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests).

No proceeds have gone to the charity, he told il Post.

According to the photographer who takes the images for the A4-sized calendar seen on newsstands throughout Rome (pictured), few of the models are truly priests

He also admitted that he does not know many of the people who ended up in the calendar, and that he photographed a number of them out in the streets.

He also said he is not aware of how many copies are sold because, il Post reports, he 'does not deal with administrative matter', but rather only the artistic side.

That includes choosing the photos every year, many of which are reused.

Interest is still significant, Mr Pazzi added.
The income of Scottish workers has lagged more than 13,000 behind the rest of the UK since the SNP took power, damning new figures reveal today.

People across Scotland could be more than 23,000 a year better off if income growth since 2010 had kept pace with previous trends, according to research by the Centre for Cities think tank.

It found that across the UK as a whole, people are on average 10,200 worse off than they would otherwise have been if income growth had continued at the same rate as between 1998 and 2010.

But it said the situation in Scotland is worse, with the average person north of the border having missed out on 23,370 in disposable income, when compared with predictions based on the 1998-2010 trends.

In Aberdeen, it said people could have been 45,240 a year better off - giving it the worst performance in this regard of any town or city in the UK.

It is joined by Glasgow and Dundee in the UK worst top 10, with Edinburgh just outside it in 11th.

However, the SNP tried to blame the stats on the UK Government and claimed they were further evidence of the need for independence. Aberdeen North MP Kirsty Blackman said they showed 'the impact of continued Westminster control'.

The SNP has run the Scottish Government since 2007.

Liz Smith, Tory shadow cabinet secretary for finance and local government, said: 'The portrayal of this report as the UK holding Scotland's economy back is laughably delusional, even by the standards of nationalist conspiracy theories.

People across Scotland could be more than 23,000 a year better off if income growth since 2010 had kept pace with previous trends, according to research by the Centre for Cities think tank.

Aberdeen has been the worst-hit city, with residents losing out on 45,240 since 2010

'It actually concludes that every part of the UK is better off than it was in 2010, but argues that we would have done better if growth had been higher  something you could always say, especially if you ignore the global financial crash, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and a host of other factors.

'The nationalist misinterpretation of these findings also ignores the fact that growth here was half that of the rest of the UK for most of the SNP's time in office, despite record UK block grants.'

In Scotland's largest city, Glasgow, the report said people could be 23,500 a year better off, while in Dundee and Edinburgh the figure was put at 17,730 and 16,030 respectively.

The Cities Outlook 2024 report found at the city level, just seven places - Aldershot, Bristol, Derby, Northampton, Slough, Telford and York - had cumulative disposable incomes that were higher than for the period 1998-2010.

It said: 'In every other city, people were worse off than if incomes had grown at the rate they did in their area between 1998 and 2010.

'Aberdeen had the biggest shortfall - if incomes had grown at pre-2010 rates, the city's residents would have had an extra 45,000 in their pockets (equivalent to two extra years of disposable income).'

The research added that Aberdeen had been 'one of the most prosperous cities in the UK in 2010', with residents having at the time the sixth highest disposable income in the UK.

The think tank said the city has had a 'difficult period' since then, as the oil and gas sector 'struggled in the 2010s', with an estimated 9,000 jobs lost in the industry.

This is 'likely to have impacted the amount of money spent in the city', the report added, resulting in retail jobs falling by almost 30 per cent compared to just 6 per cent nationally.

With the report released ahead of this year's expected general election, Centre for Cities chief executive Andrew Carter called for 'bold actions' from political leaders to support growth in cities.

Mr Carter said: 'Both the two main political parties have pledged to grow the economy and the general election debate will have growth at its heart.

'The challenge for the next government is to go beyond the rhetoric and to do what's needed to make this rhetoric a reality.'

He added that with the UK having suffered a 'torrid time since the Great Recession', the next government will need to 'act at a radically different pace and scale'.

Mr Carter suggested: 'The first step in a realistic approach to grow the economy is to recognise that the British economy is an urban economy. Cities account for 9 per cent of the land and over 60 per cent of the economy, as well as 72 per cent of high-skilled jobs.

'Their slowdown is at the heart of why the national economy is struggling. There is no plausible way of achieving higher growth without increasing the innovation and dynamism of urban Britain.

'This means reforming the planning system to enable cities to grow, devolving more powers and financial freedoms to encourage our big cities to make decisions that support growth, and following the levelling up rhetoric with bold actions.'
Rochdale grooming gang members have been fighting to avoid deportation - with three of the nine jailed sex abusers using citizenship loopholes and claims to rights of a family life to mount legal challenges bidding to stay in the UK.

Seven members of the first Rochdale gang brought down for raping and trafficking young children across England have been released - including ringleader Qari Abdul Rauf who has been pictured back in the town where they carried out their attacks.

Mail Online has revealed how Rauf, 54, is still enjoying life in Britain and spending time with his family, almost nine years after he was ordered to be deported.

He and Adil Khan, 53, have been repeatedly told by the courts they will be deported to their native Pakistan - yet have pursued legal battles to remain, making the claim that they are now 'stateless' after renouncing their Pakistani citizenship.

Fellow convict Abdul Aziz, known in the same gang as 'The Master', was also served with a deportation order after being released from jail - yet he managed to abandon his Pakistani citizenship just before a crucial court ruling and was told by British officials he could stay after all.

Convicted Rochdale groomer Qari Abdul Rauf (pictured) seen leaving his home in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, on January 18, 2024

Rauf was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child and jailed for six years in 2012, ultimately serving two years and six months behind bars

Adil Khan was jailed for eight years, serving four in prison and four on licence, after being found guilty of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child

Abdul Aziz was paid for ferrying children across the north of England before being sentenced for nine years for trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child

He renounced his citizenship on July 13 2018 just days before a Court of Appeal ruling the trio could be stripped of British citizenship and was permitted to remain.

His victory was only revealed four years later, when a lawyer representing Rauf in his latest appeal against deportation read out an October 2018 letter sent to Aziz by then-Home Secretary Sajid Javid.

The document said the Home Office had 'decided not to make a deprivation order in respect of you' - meaning Aziz retained his British citizenship.

Rauf and Adil Khan, 53, renounced their Pakistani citizenship in September that year but this was deemed too late by Immigration Tribunal judges who rejected their appeals against deportation in 2020 and 2022.

In their 2022 appeal they argued that deportation would breach their right to private and family life under the European Convention on Human Rights.

Khan also told the tribunal he shouldn't be deported back to Pakistan as he is a 'role model' for his teenage son and needed to teach the teenager 'right from wrong'.

Yet the pair remain in the UK and have been frequently seen in and around Rochdale, to the anger of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham who vowed to press the Home Office for updates on when they might finally be removed from the country.

Another gang member facing deportation to Pakistan is Shabir Ahmed, still serving a 22-year sentence.

Although Rauf was stripped of his British citizenship, his deportation has been held up as Pakistan has reportedly refused to take him back. He is pictured leaving his family home in Rochdale on January 18, 2024

Rauf was pictured on January 18, 2024, being collected from his home in Rochdale by a friend who was taking him for a trip out

Former taxi driver and Muslim preacher Rauf - jailed in 2012 for the scandal later made into BBC drama Three Girls - was last week collected by a friend

A fifth offender, Hamid Safi, has been deported to Afghanistan after being freed while Mohammed Sajid is expected to be sent to Pakistan when his jail term ends later this year.

Three more of the gang members are believed to have been released and potentially walking British streets - Mohammed Amin, Abdul Qayyam and Kabeer Hasan.

The nine men were convicted in 2012 of a range of sexual offences against children including rape, trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with children in and around Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

Although Rauf was stripped of his British citizenship, his deportation has been held up reportedly due to Pakistan  the other country where he enjoyed dual nationality  refusing to take him back.

Last week he was collected by a friend and driven off for a trip out, our exclusive photos showed.

Rauf refused to comment and initially denied that he was the convicted pervert when approached.

Schoolchildren regularly walk past his 140,000 three-bedroom redbrick semi-detached house in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

The former taxi driver and Muslim preacher was jailed in 2012 for the scandal which was later dramatised in the BBC series Three Girls.

He was imprisoned for six years after being convicted of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with children under 16 and trafficking for sexual exploitation.

But he was freed on licence in November 2014 after just two-and-a-half years in prison. He then returned home to his wife and five children.

The Home Office told him he would be stripped of his UK citizenship in 2015 and returned to his native Pakistan with fellow abusers Aziz and Khan.

They lost an appeal in 2018 against the ruling to strip them of their citizenship rights.

Rauf and Khan were both ordered to be sent back to Pakistan on their release but their lawyers appealed.

Alongside Adil Khan, Rauf sought to claim in 2022 that his forced removal would be incompatible with his human rights, but that appeal failed.

In August 2023, immigration judges refused a further appeal from Rauf's lawyers  whose identities have been protected by way of an unusual court order.

Both men claimed during their deportation appeals to have renounced their Pakistani citizenships, rendering them 'stateless'.

A previous hearing concluded that it would be 'relatively easy' for the pair to reclaim their Pakistani nationalities but that they were 'unwilling' to do so.

A new hard-hitting report released last week concluded that at least 96 men who pose a potential risk to children continue to roam the Greater Manchester area, but admits they are likely 'only a proportion of the individuals' committing sex abuse.

The damning 173-page paper slammed police and council bosses for failing to act on early reports of grooming.

It followed a 2013 report that examined how abuse was allowed to continue for so long before any convictions were secured.

A Home Office spokesperson said they could not comment on individual cases but added in a statement: 'The disgraceful failures in Rochdale must never happen again. That's why we have set up a dedicated Taskforce of specialist officers to tackle grooming gangs, helping forces target those who prey on young people and bring them to justice, and will introduce mandatory reporting for adults working with young people if someone in their care is being sexually abused.

'We know we must do more to protect vulnerable children and our new Criminal Justice Bill will look to further protect victims and make sure grooming gangs and their leaders face the toughest possible sentences.'

The nine monsters who were sentenced in 2012 are profiled below.

Qari Rauf and Adil Khan

Taxi driver and Muslim preacher Abdul Rauf, of Rochdale, was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child. He was jailed for six years in 2012, ultimately serving two years and six months behind bars.

Adil Khan, also of Rochdale, was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child and was jailed for eight years, serving four in prison and four on licence.

Both appealed against the plan to deport him to Pakistan, and renounced his Pakistani citizenship  but not before the Home Office stripped them of their British citizenship and with it the right to remain in the country.

Alongside Adil Khan, Rauf sought to claim in 2022 that his forced removal would be incompatible with his human rights, but that appeal failed.

In August 2023, immigration judges refused another further appeal from Rauf's lawyers  whose identities have been protected by way of a court order.

But a report in The Sun suggests the pair's removals have been delayed because Pakistan, is reportedly refusing to allow them to return.

Rauf and Khan claimed during their deportation appeals to have renounced their Pakistani citizenships, rendering them both 'stateless'.

A previous hearing concluded that it would be 'relatively easy' for the pair to reclaim their Pakistani identities but that they were 'unwilling' to do so.

Abdul Aziz (left) has been able to remain in the UK; Mohammed Amin has served his sentence

Abdul Aziz

Aziz, of Rochdale, was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.

He was paid for ferrying children across the north of England and ultimately jailed for nine years.

Known as 'the Master' by his fellow abusers, Aziz was reportedly stripped of his UK citizenship by a court in 2018  but it has since emerged that he renounced his Pakistani citizenship five days before the hearing, and before Rauf and Khan.

Mohammed Amin

Amin, of Rochdale, was found guilty of sex assaults and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.

The taxi driver was jailed for five years after he was found guilty during the 2012 trial, and has now served his sentence across both prison and release on licence.

Mohammed Sajid (left) and Kabeer Hassan (right). Sajid's sentence concludes this year, after which he will be deported to Pakistan; Hassan is believed to be free

Mohammed Sajid

Sajid, a cash-and-carry worker from Rochdale, was found guilty of rape, trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child, having come to the UK from Pakistan.

He was jailed for 12 years in 2012 and would be due free if he served the full sentence behind bars; he will otherwise complete the remainder of his sentence on licence.

At the time of his sentencing, he was told he would be deported to Pakistan once the term had been served.

Kabeer Hassan

Hassan, of Oldham, was convicted of rape and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.

Hospitality worker Hassan, the youngest member of the gang, was given a girl to rape as a 'treat' for his birthday, the trial heard.

Following his conviction, he was jailed for nine years, and will now be free on the streets.

Hamid Safi (left) is believed to have been deported to Afghanistan after serving his sentence; Abdul Qayyum (right) is now free

Hamid Safi

Illegal immigrant Safi, from Rochdale, arrived in the UK from Afghanistan after hiding underneath a lorry.

He was convicted of trafficking and conspiracy and jailed for four years.

At the time of his sentencing, he was told he would be deported to Afghanistan following the conclusion of his term.

Abdul Qayyum

Qayyum, known as 'Tiger', was convicted of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.

A taxi driver and a businessman, he was sentenced to five years in jail in 2012 and will now be free on the streets.

Rochdale grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed urged his victims to call him 'Daddy'; he still has a decade of his sentence remaining

Shabir Ahmed

Twisted ringleader Ahmed, who urged his victims to call him 'Daddy', was sentenced to 19 years in prison for his role as the kingpin in the Rochdale grooming gang.

He had been employed as a welfare rights officer within Oldham Council but was convicted of two counts of rape, sex assault, trafficking and conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with a child.

Since then, Ahmed's jail term has been extended by three years after he was convicted of repeatedly raping a girl, and another 12 months after attacking another inmate behind bars.

In theory, he could remain in jail until around 2034, but could be granted parole to serve the remainder of his sentence on licence. He has also sought to appeal against the decision to deport him to Pakistan upon release.
Has YOUR Ryanair flight been affected by Storm Isha?

Furious Ryanair passengers were forced to wrap up in foil blankets and sleep on camping beds at an airport terminal in France after hundreds were left stranded without hotels when the airline diverted flights during Storm Isha.

Many planes have been grounded, with flights bound for Britain and Ireland forced to divert to mainland Europe instead.

Passengers slammed the airline for its lack of communication, with many claiming they were left stranded for 'hours on end' at airports overseas.

Others claimed families with young children were left waiting 'all night' after the airline cancelled their flight and diverted them to another airport.

Has YOUR Ryanair flight been affected by Storm Isha? Email katherine.lawton@mailonline.co.uk

It comes as Storm Isha's 100mph gales and heavy downpours have barrelled down on the nation overnight, causing more travel disruption on the ground.

One frustrated customer posted photos of camping beds set up by Ryanair in a French airport terminal, alongside the caption: '@Ryanair this is your excuse for overnight accommodation when a flight is rerouted. Absolutely disgraceful.'

Another told MailOnline they were stuck on a 'boiling hot plane' for more than two hours after their flight from Milan to Manchester was diverted and landed at Stansted.

'We were kept on the plane for over two hours with no information, and no amenities,' they said. 'Cups of boiling water were served to anyone who asked for water, the plane was stifling, there were children and babies trapped on board a boiling hot plane.'

Passengers had to spend the night at Tille Airport after their flight from Faro was diverted

A large hall is pictured with a metal roof housed rows of camping beds with yellow foil blankets for people to sleep on for Ryanair travellers

One passenger's flight to Birmingham was delayed several times yesterday amid the travel chaos

One passenger shared a photo of a medical assistant helping a 'distressed' passenger after several aborted landing attempts near Prestwick, Scotland

An angry passenger took to social media to report of pop-up beds being set up

Furious Ryanair passengers complained of being left stranded after their flights were delayed, cancelled or diverted

A busy terminal at London Heathrow as passengers face delays to the storm and bad weather today

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport because of their flights being cancelled due to Storm Isha

Two passengers had to spend the night at Tille airport after their flight from Faro to EMA was diverted

They added: 'Families with children didn't have car seats for taxis/buses. People were all over the floors trying to sleep, fights broke out and police were called. No offer of anything to eat or drink by staff even for families with very young children and people with health conditions.

'Solo travellers and females travelling alone were visibly crying and staff could not have cared less. People clearly struggling with anxiety and stress and no support given.

'The storm was no one's fault but the customer service received from Ryanair was disgusting. The airport at Stansted was like scenes I have never seen, people lying on any free floor space for hours on end.'

Flightradar data shows how a Ryanair flight from Tenerife bound for Dublin was diverted to France, while another plane headed for Scotland was rerouted to Germany as winds struck the country.

A passenger told MailOnline they have been stuck at Dublin Airport since 9.30am yesterday.

'Our 11.40am flight - yesterday - was finally cancelled around 7am this morning,' they said. 'We have two children with their granny at home in North London.

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'We saw disabled people stranded and in distress and young families sleeping at the airport all night. The kids looked frightened and the only form of compensation we've got from Ryanair is 4 voucher.'

Another passenger told MailOnline they were dehydrated and struggling to breathe while stuck on a Ryanair flight that was meant to land in Dublin but instead diverted to Manchester.

'The anxiety was awful, passengers were crying, wailing they were frantic!' they said.

'We couldn't breathe, we were all dehydrated, exhausted and so confused why we were being HELD in the plane and not allowed to get off.'

Another shared a photo of a medical assistant helping a 'distressed' passenger after several aborted landing attempts near Prestwick, Scotland.

One man told how his flight has been pushed back over 18 hours so far due to Storm Isha - comparing the scenes at the airport to a 'zoo'.

Michael Pope, 49, was left 'stranded' overnight in Dublin as strong winds and rain caused his flight to become severely delayed.

The software engineer, who lives in Amsterdam, booked his flight through Ryanair and has been left frustrated with the airline's assistance.

According to Mr Pope, his flight disappeared off the board at one point. He also claimed that two flights with the same number, both going to Amsterdam, were reportedly being listed at two different times with different gates.

'It's like a zoo, as nobody knows what's going on,' Mr Pope said.

Another passenger told MailOnline they were waiting for their flight at Birmingham for nearly 12 hours yesterday.

'My flight to Birmingham was delayed several times yesterday. I arrived at the airport at around 12.30 and was advised to leave around 22.15 it was chaotic,' he said.

'There was a distressed breastfeeding woman whose baby was in Manchester trying to access a breast pump. I tried to support her to access medical help. She was offered a flight [..] too far away from her home destination.'

They added: 'A flight to Birmingham actually left earlier in the evening with seats free. I tried to get on it but was turned away.'

Other irritated passengers took to social media to share their travel nightmares, with one writing on X: '@Ryanair thank you for leaving all the Tenerife South passengers stranded at cologne airport last night. You promised hotels. You delivered nothing. And the thing is you don't care. Stranded families with you[ng] kids. Older passengers stranded. Useless #Ryanair useless.'

Another added: 'Cancelled flight from Newquay. You've put us... (31) on a bus to Stansted for 6hrs only to leave us stranded at the airport, there are families with very young children just waiting around all night. It's NOT ok @Ryanair.'

A third wrote: 'Stranded in Glasgow airport no @Ryanair staff to fly us home after being diverted from Dublin airport yesterday. No communication whatsoever from Ryanair.'

Other X users shared memes in response to the diversions, with one writing: 'Flew from Manchester to Dublin today, only we didn't land in Dublin, or back to Manchester. Bonjour from Paris!'

A spokesperson for Ryanair told MailOnline: 'Due to Storm Isha, some flights to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday and today have regrettably been cancelled/delayed.

'We are working hard to reaccommodate affected passengers and advise all passengers due to travel to/from the UK or Ireland today to check their Ryanair app for the latest updates on their flight.

'Ryanair sincerely apologises to all passengers affected by these storm-related disruptions, which are entirely beyond our control and have impacted all airlines operating to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday.'

Passengers were left stranded 500 miles away from their intended destination after their Manchester to Dublin flight was forced to divert to Paris as the storm rolled in on Sunday.

The flight, which was initially due to land at Dublin International Airport at around 3.30pm, was already delayed by an hour when leaving Manchester Airport on Sunday afternoon.

Many discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK

Many Brits discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK, with one plane heading to Dublin ending up in Paris

A plane heading to Dublin from Manchester took 11 hours and flew in a circle. It circled Dublin, then diverted to Belfast, before heading back and landing in Liverpool. Normally it is a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin

One passenger told MailOnline they have been stuck at Dublin Airport (pictured) since 9.30am yesterday

The passenger said: 'We saw disabled people stranded and in distress and young families sleeping at the airport all night'

Furious passengers shared their Ryanair travel nightmares on social media

However, due to 'dangerous' winds, the plane was forced to circle over the Irish Sea multiple times before aborting its landing and instead flying to Paris Beauvais-Tille Airport, landing shortly before 5.30pm.

Dublin International Airport had already issued a public warning about possible flight cancellations, delays and a stream of aborted landings, with numerous other flights diverting to Manchester and other airports across the country.

Two hours later, at 7.30pm, one passenger on board the Ryanair flight said those on board were still stuck on the runway in Paris.

A flight from Copenhagen to Dublin was also diverted to Manchester yesterday.

It took off at 5:15pm last night, circled near Dublin before being diverted to Belfast and headed back to Manchester - but actually landed at the John Lennon Airport in Liverpool instead.

According to Flightradar, this took 11 hours. It is normally a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin.

Another passenger who boarded a flight at Edinburgh yesterday for a one hour flight to Bristol said she ended up in Paris.

Kim Woodcock, 67, and the other passengers waited on the tarmac for four hours and those with a passport eventually went to hotels.

But those who didn't - around 50 - had to sleep in the departure lounge instead.

They were given a tuna sandwich each and a bottle of water but no hot food or drinks.

Ms Woodcock spent the night sleeping on the floor, using her bag as a pillow.

She told MailOnline: 'I'm exhausted, it's been really difficult. I was hoping to be home at 5pm last night for a roast dinner!'

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport after their flights were cancelled

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats

Many travellers were left waiting with piles of luggage for their flights at Heathrow Airport

She said she is still currently waiting in Paris for a return flight to the UK, expected to depart this afternoon.

Despite the disruption, many found the funny side of things and very soon hundreds of memes about the odd destinations of the flights were circulating on social media.

The 100mph gales and heavy downpours barrelled down on the nation overnight, with many flights trying to come into the country facing a shaky landing.

A flight travelling from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow Airport declared an emergency due to Storm Isha.

A spokesperson for Glasgow Airport said the TUI flight was 'diverted to Manchester due to current weather conditions'.

A British Airways flight on its way from Ibiza to London City Airport was among the scores of passenger aircraft which were forced to divert as winds of up to 90mph hit the UK.

Nervous passengers erupted into applause after their diverted plane made a shaky landing during powerful winds.

A holidaymaker shared a video on X showing the bumpy ride as the plane came into land at Gatwick, before the cabin erupted into applause and cheers for the captain, with one grateful passenger heard shouting 'Go on geezer!'

There was also applause for the captain of an Alicante to Edinburgh flight, who managed to land their Jet2 plane despite dramatic crosswinds.

Travel chaos also hit Scotland amid 'tornado watch' warnings and amber weather alerts, with luggage filmed being blown across the runway at Edinburgh Airport.

A number of other flights were forced to divert to other airports due to Storm Isha winds on Sunday, with a haul of other flights cancelled from UK airports, including Manchester.

But some travellers were furious when Ryanair revealed its overnight accommodation plans for them.

Crowds gathered in Dublin airport after flights were cancelled due to Storm Isha last night, which saw flights diverted away from Ireland

Posting a photo and video on X, one customer said: 'This is your excuse for overnight accommodation when a flight is rerouted. Absolutely disgraceful.'

A large hall with a metal roof housed rows of camping beds with yellow foil blankets for people to sleep on.

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm.

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats.

An Easyjet flight which took off from Edinburgh yesterday afternoon circled Bristol 'for some time' before the pilot was forced to change route and land in Paris instead.

Tom Shepard, 39, told BristolLive that he and the other passengers had to wait on the tarmac for three hours while staff debated whether to try and fly back to Bristol to see if the wind had lessened.

He said: 'We though the pilot was joking at first. We couldn't believe there was no other airport in the UK that we could land at.'

Another flight which was coming from Lanzarote to Dublin was diverted, ending up in Bordeaux, France instead.

Stranded passengers were left fuming in Cologne Airport, Germany, when four flights to Edinburgh were diverted due to the storm.

One person posted on X that they had been promised hotel rooms but were left sleeping on the floor.

A number of Edinburgh-bound flights were forced to divert to Germany's Cologne Bonn Airport - over 550 miles away.

A total of 10 flights bound for Glasgow Airport diverted to airports including Glasgow Prestwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool and London Stansted on Sunday.

This morning a rare red warning came into effect for Scotland, with alerts that some areas could see wind speeds of 100mph causing a 'danger to life'.

The Met Office is warning people not to go outside and to shelter in place as the storm brings life-threatening winds, with the potential for flying debris and roofs blown off.

Andy Giles was due to fly from Newquay, Cornwall, to Faro in Portugal on Sunday afternoon.

But Mr Giles, from Looe, Cornwall, said: 'The flight was diverted to Stansted because of the weather.

'We were told to jump on a bus to go to Stansted to catch the plane up.

'Six-and-half hours later and we arrived at Stansted at 12.15am this morning and we are still waiting.

'We're still here. We've been here all night with no sleep because they said if you go to sleep and miss the email, you miss the flight and you won't get there.

Mr Giles, who is working in Portugal, said 31 passengers chose to travel to Stansted but some people went home rather than face the long bus trip.

He said they were given food vouchers at Newquay which were not redeemable at Stansted.

Travellers were forced to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets in Tille

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, spent the night in Tille Aiport

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, had to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets after their Ryanair flight from Faro to East Midlands Airport (EMA) was diverted to Tille, France.

Their flight spent half-an-hour hovering over EMA before it was diverted to Tille because it was too dangerous to try to land.

The warehouse team leader, from Leicester, told MailOnline: 'When we got to Faro Airport we had a weather alert from Ryanair saying there was bad weather at home but we didn't expect it to be as bad as this.

'We were in the air for about four hours and when we got to Tille at 10pm it was a bit of a shambles. The airport didn't have enough camp beds, so my mother and I had to sleep on metal chairs and it was freezing, so we got no sleep.

'The airport was handing out bottles of water but my mother and I had to share one between two of us.'

Mr Ely and Ms Buckby finally landed at EMA this morning, roughly 16 hours after they left Faro.

He said: 'I wish they had just left us in Faro so we could spend an extra night there because now I've had no sleep. I've had to pay for an Uber home because my husband couldn't pick us up at the airport and I've had to take today off work.'

The passengers were given free boarding cards for the flight, but Mr Ely claims he hasn't received any messages from Ryanair about further compensation passengers might expect to receive.

In a statement, Ryanair said: 'The mother and son had flown to the Algarve for a long weekend and the holiday was Mr Ely's Christmas present to his mother. He said: 'Overall, the holiday was lovely just didn't have a very nice end to it!'

Many found the funny side of things and posted memes to social media

At Leeds Bradford Airport, three departing flights have been cancelled today and some are delayed by over six hours.

Winds reached 50mph overnight in the city, but are expected to drop to 40mph later today.

The Met Office has weather warnings in place covering the entirety of Britain heading into early Monday morning.

The most serious of these is a rare red warning for wind, which is in place in northern Scotland between 1am and 5am, as meteorologists predict gusts of 90 to 100mph.

The warning covers Thurso and Wick to the north, Fraserburgh and Peterhead to the east and goes as far west as Cromarty and Nairn.

The Met Office said there winds would bring a 'risk of damage, disruption and a danger to life', with flying debris, large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes.

There could be damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, as well as power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Amber warnings for wind cover most of the rest of Britain, aside from London and East Anglia, where a yellow warning is place.
Prince Harry made a 'fool of himself' by posing for a selfie with a German 'prince' best known for Big Brother, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and TV shopping at the 'Living Legends of Aviation' gala, experts told MailOnline today.

Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe and the Duke of Sussex grinned as they stood together at the black tie event hosted by John Travolta at a Hilton in LA on Friday night.

Today the 46-year-old said he felt 'sorry' for Harry and shared his own birth certificate on social media after his own family even questioned his right to use the title of prince because he was adopted in his twenties.

Mario-Max has been dubbed the 'King of Trash TV' for appearing on Germany's Big Brother before cameos on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills when he dated a star and Bravos Millionaire Matchmaker when he went in search of a wife in Iowa.

The red-carpet loving German, who calls himself a 'royal and TV anchor' on Instagram, has even appeared on a shopping channel to sell a 'wealth elixir' at 99 euros for a 56ml bottle. Other embarrassing stunts include semi-naked modelling of lederhosen-style swimming trunks.

He also has a penchant for asking royals as well as the rich and famous people for selfies to post on social media including Prince Albert of Monaco, Lady Gaga, Emily Blunt, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Paris Hilton and now Prince Harry.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told MailOnline: 'Harry has made a fool of himself'.

Harry and Meghan's biographer Phil Dampier said: 'If Harry wants to be taken seriously he should not be posing up with people like this German Prince who has been on their equivalent of Celebrity Big Brother and been dubbed the king of Trash TV on shopping channels. Its very sad to see someone who was once a real life royal with so much to offer reduced to this sort of tacky selfie'.

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 Schaumburg-Lippe was adopted by a German Prince and Princess when he was in his 20s

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 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

Prince Mario-Max posts pictures of himself posing with celebrities on his Instagram page. Pictured with Lady Gaga in 2018 and right with Emily Blunt

He grabbed a selfie with Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber in 2018.

Mario-Max's website boasts of family connections stretching back to William of Orange, which would make him a very, very distant cousin of the British Royals including Harry.

He insists he has the right to use the royal title after he was adopted by a member of the Schaumburg-Lippe family when he was in his twenties.

But the head of his family, Prince Alexander of Schaumburg-Lippe, accused him of 'harvesting our name for personal gain'. Prince Alexander also warned Harry to 'stay away from this man', claiming he could not 'stoop lower' than be seen with Mario-Max.

Hitting back Mario-Max shared his birth certificate online to back his claims that he is the son of a prince and princess with links to royal houses in Germany and Denmark.

Prince Mario-Max today declared that fresh scrutiny of his princely credentials after the selfie made him sympathise with the Duke of Sussex and his wife Meghan Markle. He said: 'I feel so sorry for Prince Harry'.

Speaking about meeting Harry on Friday night, Mario-Max told The Mail on Sunday yesterday: 'We had a personal conversation and he was fabulous, very humble, very sweet. It filled me with joy.'

Mario-Max insists he has the right to use the royal title after he was adopted by a member of the Schaumburg-Lippe family when he was around 23 or 24.

Since then 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.

He presents a royal show called 'Astro Royal' from Berlin that is broadcast on cable, satellite and web-tv. He also says he is a journalist.

And in an attempt to back up his own royal lineage he shared his official birth documents from 2009, after he was adopted.

Tweeting in German and English, he said that he is son of 'Prince Waldemar, son of Princess Feodora of Denmark, and Princess Antonia Schaumburg-Lippe'.

His small army of social media supporters backed him, with one saying of his critics: 'You are a gentleman sir. Ignore these people. They have no honour'.

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.

Richard Fitzwilliams said: 'A selfie on the evening of receiving this Living Legends of Aviation award with the self-styled Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe was surely most unwise.

'We know the Sussexes' found many of the royal familys rules restricting, but discouraging selfies is a sensible one. This prince has also been dubbed the King of Trash TV having apparently appeared on the German version of Big Brother. Given how sensitive the Sussexes are about their privacy and some of the revelations in his memoir, Spare, which left him open to so much mockery, you have to wonder, what comes next'.

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.

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 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, said Harry 'could not stoop any lower' than appearing with Prince Mario-Max

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

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

Mario-Max 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.'

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.

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 in the past week.

The audience erupted into laughter and applause in response to the prince's quip with whistling also heard. Someone else could 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.
A graphic designer who forced his Airbnb host to perform a sex act on him and told her he would leave a 'good review' has been found guilty of rape.

Italian Diego Dellarovere, 43, attacked the woman at her flat in Croydon on May 7 2021, after she welcomed him as her first-ever guest.

Dellarovere had offered the woman a relaxing massage and started rubbing her shoulders as they enjoyed a glass of wine together at her home.

The Airbnb host noticed he was getting 'handsy', but admitted in a voice note to a friend that 'he's Italian and they do that'.

In her videoed police interview, played to the jury, the woman said she made it clear she did not want to be massaged by Dellarovere but he put on spa music and said he had oil.

She struggled to push him away and said: 'I don't want this,' Croydon Crown Court heard, but Dellarovere then pulled down his trousers and underwear, and forced her to perform a sex act on him.

Italian Diego Dellarovere, 43, attacked the woman at her flat in Croydon on May 7 2021, after she welcomed him as her first ever guest

Diego Dellarovere (pictured) outside Croydon Crown Court where he denied rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration on 7 May 2021, but the jury unanimously convicted him on all three counts after five hours and 17 minutes' deliberation

The woman said she hid her knife block as she was scared he would stab her and barricaded herself in her bedroom with her pets.

Dellarovere told jurors they sat on the sofa, drank wine and chatted and there was 'chemistry' between them. He said they chatted about spiritual stuff and he gave her a relaxing 'Reiki' massage.

Dellarovere said he kissed and touched the woman before she performed a sex act on him, but insisted it was all consensual.

He denied rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration but the jury at Croydon Crown Court unanimously convicted him on all three counts after five hours and 17 minutes' deliberation.

Smartly dressed in a dark suit and tie, Dellarovere looked away and made a praying motion with his hands after the verdicts were read out.

Dellarovere's Facebook page shows the Italian enjoying holidays at some of the most exotic locations in the world.

One photo shows Dellarovere and another holidaymaker at Thailand's Maya Bay, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach.

Dellarovere's Facebook page shows the Italian enjoying holidays at some of the most exotic locations in the world including Thailand's Maya Bay, made famous by the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach

Dellarovere said he kissed and touched the woman before she performed a sex act on him, but insisted it was all consensual

The judge, Mr Recorder William Featherby, KC, remanded Dellarovere in custody and said: 'A significant custodial sentence is inevitable.'

His girlfriend, who was present in court, spoke to Dellarovere in Italian and gave ironic applause to the jury as they left court.

In an apparent reference to the victim she said: 'She's a liar' and shouted 'F***ing liar' as she stormed out of court after the hearing ended.

The woman left two voice notes with her friend, who knew she had been hosting an Airbnb customer in her flat, the next day.

In the first note, left at 10.39am, the woman said: 'I have got a bit of a story to tell you about Diego.'

In the second she explained that they had sat on the sofa chatting, when he began making advances.

'I was chatting with him, chatting about his life, what he does, and I was like 'is he getting a bit handsy?' He's Italian and they do that so I'll leave that slide.'

She said at one point the conversation went quiet, when Dellarovere went to give her a hug and started kissing her neck quite forcefully.

The judge, Mr Recorder William Featherby, KC, remanded Dellarovere in custody and said: 'A significant custodial sentence is inevitable'

Dellarovere was remanded in custody ahead of sentence at Inner London crown court on 31 January 2024.

'At one stage he had managed to get my top off and then I was like 'you need to stop this' but it was a good half hour more [before] stopping his advances,' she added.

'I was like 'I think you should go to bed' and he went to bed and I barricaded my door.'

She said her guest then started texting her from his bedroom, asking her if she wanted to 'come in' and that he'd give her a massage.

She revealed one of the texts read: 'Are you sure you don't want to share a bed with me, I won't do anything, I will just lie by your side'.

Her friend told the court that she called her as soon as she got that message, saying she had sounded 'very upset, I could hear in her voice that she was holding back emotion.'

When they met later than day, she said the woman was 'very distressed and very very upset' and reiterated what she had explained in the voice notes.

'She was referring to them having this discussion on the sofa when he started to get quite physical and forceful,' the friend said and 'that she said 'no', that she didn't consent to what was happening.'

In a text message Dellarovere said: 'You need more light in your soul because you are making up everything'

He said he had chosen the Airbnb because 'it was cheap, and because there was a park close by and I like nature'

'She was scared, she was terrified of what was going to happen...and she kept repeating 'I said no'.

'There's a point I can remember her saying she got up to go into the kitchen, and he had been very forceful and had forced her to perform [a sex act] on him.

'I remember her telling me that she had taken her animals into the bedroom with her, which stuck in my brain because she loves them so dearly.

'When he did leave she was concerned he was going to come back with someone else. She wasn't sure what he was going to do and she just said she was terrified.'

The friend said the victim reported the incident to Airbnb 'because she was afraid it could potentially happen to somebody else', and straight after that it was reported to the police.

Jurors earlier heard Dellarovere left that morning and told the host: 'I'll leave a good review.'

The woman said she left a neutral Airbnb review about Dellarovere as a guest and he replied with an 'angry face emoji'. They exchanged WhatsApp messages before Dellarovere blocked her.

Dellarovere told the court the woman had willingly performed a sex act on him after he gave her a massage.

Aided by an Italian interpreter he said: 'There was a sort of chemistry. We were laughing and joking, everything was very natural.

'At a point I remember that we looked at each other and there was a kiss.

'At that point when there was this kiss she came closer and we became more intimate, we started to hug and touch each other. We kissed and hugged.

'It was a chemistry, our looking at each other. I made a joke, I said 'Look at [your dog's] face they seem attracted by me, maybe they feel the Reiki energy.

'I made a joke, 'maybe you seem attracted as well?'

'I remember that she laughed and there was this exchange of glances and there was a kiss.'

Dellarovere went on to explain how they 'caressed' before the situation escalated and she performed a sex act on him which apparently lasted '10 or 20 seconds'.

'At this point I was in an uncomfortable position, I didn't enjoy that moment because I was in an uncomfortable position,' he added.

'I was going to move and then it was just like she had woken up and she stood up and went back and she said 'No, no, it's too soon, I made a mistake'.

'At the point she stood up I still had my trousers down. I stood up and I said 'Everything's ok, there's nothing wrong' and I tried to hug her.

'At this point she said 'No, no' and when I heard her I was embarrassed, pulled up my trousers and went in my room.'

Dellarovere told the court he then went out for a walk and they exchanged a number of text messages.

He said that initially he had been worried she thought he hadn't enjoyed the encounter, saying: 'I didn't want her to feel refused. I thought she felt I didn't want her or maybe she thought I didn't enjoy it.'

In one message he wrote: 'Seize the moment. Life is beautiful.' In another he referred to a 'BJ' and said she had 'LIKED IT'.

Later in the text exchange the woman had told Dellarovere: 'You are a predator', and his reply ended with the word 'predator??????'.

He later wrote: 'You really need more light in your soul, more freedom. The men are not all about evil. Why did you send that message?'

Dellarovere told the court: 'I said 'goodbye', there was nothing more to explain. You need more light in your soul because you are making up everything.'

Father-of-one Dellarovere said he originally came the UK in May 2021 'because my fiance was here, and I was with her.'

He also explained that he had decided to stay at an Airbnb property in Croydon 'for my lifestyle'.

'I like to explore new places, and in that period it was a Covid period, and I couldn't travel or visit other places and the idea to go on a night out - it was close to my lifestyle.

He said he had chosen this place because 'it was cheap, and because there was a park close by and I like nature.'

Dellarovere, of Holland Road, West Kensington, denied rape, sexual assault and assault by penetration on 7 May 2021.

The Italian was remanded in custody ahead of sentence at Inner London crown court on 31 January 2024.
By James Gamble via SWNS

The venom of one of the world's deadliest spiders could provide life-saving treatment for victims of heart attacks.

A molecule in the venom of funnel-web spiders was found to prevent cells in the heart from dying due to lack of oxygen during heart attacks and strokes in preclinical tests.

The new drug candidate, called Hi1a, is also believed to be able to extend the lives of donor hearts used for organ transplants.

The Australian scientists behind the study, published in the European Heart Journal, say it works by stopping a death signal sent from the heart in the wake of an attack and could soon be administered by first responders.

The researchers hope to test the drug in human trials in the coming years to provide the first-ever drug that prevents damage caused by heart attacks.

The research team, from the University of Queensland (UQ), identified a small protein in the venom of the Fraser Island (Kgari) funnel-web spider that was shown to protect cells from damage caused by heart attacks and strokes.

The arachnid species are amongst the deadliest spiders in the world - with its venomous bite able to kill a child in just 15 minutes.

The discovered venom molecule has recently undergone a series of preclinical tests designed to mimic real-life treatment scenarios and passed with flying colors.

Associate Professor Nathan Palpant, a lead author of the study from UQs Institute for Molecular Bioscience, said these tests were a 'major step' towards understanding how Hi1a could be used as a therapeutic, at what stage of a heart attack it should be used and the optimal dosage required.

We established that Hi1a is as effective at protecting the heart as the only cardioprotective drug to reach Phase 3 clinical trials, a drug that was ultimately shelved due to side effects," Dr Palpant said.

Importantly, we found that Hi1a only interacts with cells in the injured zone of the heart during an attack and doesnt bind to healthy regions of the heart  reducing the chance of side effects."

After a heart attack, blood flow to the heart is reduced, meaning a lack of oxygen goes to the heart.

This lack of oxygen causes the cell environment to become acidic, which combines to send a message for heart cells to die.

Despite decades of research, scientists have thus far been unable to develop a drug that stops this death signal in heart cells, which is one of the reasons heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the world.

Dr. Pallant and his team tested the Hi1a protein using beating human heart cells exposed to heart attack stresses to observe whether the drug improved their survival.

The spider venom protein was found to block acid-sensing ion channels in the heart, meaning the death message is blocked and cell deaths are reduced.

Professor Glenn King, another UQ researcher who recently won the Prime Ministers Prize for Innovation for developing the worlds first insecticides from spider venom, described the new drug candidate as 'super exciting'.

"There is no drug at the moment to protect the heart during a heart attack," he said.

"The possibility that we could develop the first-ever drug to minimize damage during a heart attack is super exciting.

Hi1a could reduce damage to the heart and brain during heart attacks and strokes by preventing cell death caused by lack of oxygen.

For heart attack victims, our vision for the future is that Hi1a could be administered by first responders in the ambulance, which would really change the health outcomes of heart disease."

Infensa Bioscience, a company co-founded by the researchers, has already raised AU$23 million (11m) to develop Hi1a for commercial purposes.

Professor Peter Macdonald, a senior cardiologist at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, added that the drug could also improve the number and quality of donor hearts.

"The survival of heart cells is vital in heart transplants," he said.

"This will not only help the hundreds of thousands of people who have a heart attack every year around the world, it could also increase the number and quality of donor hearts, which will give hope to those waiting on the transplant list.

"Treating hearts with Hi1a and reducing cell death will increase how far the heart can be transported and improve the likelihood of a successful transplant.

Usually, if the donor heart has stopped beating for more than 30 minutes before retrieval, the heart cant be used - even if we can buy an extra 10 minutes, that could make the difference between someone having a heart and someone missing out.

"For people who are literally on deaths door, this could be life-changing.

The researchers now aim to conduct human clinical trials for both stroke and heart disease within two to three years.
Far-Right activist Tommy Robinson today denied refusing to leave a march against anti-Semitism.

The English Defence League founder, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon, is accused of failing to comply with a direction to leave an area in Westminster on November 26 of last year.

Robinson was arrested near the Royal Courts of Justice in London, where the demonstration began, after organisers said he would not be welcome at the event.

He appeared in court wearing a blue shirt and dark grey waistcoat. Robinson denied the charge of one count of failing to comply with a dispersal order.

Alistair Williamson KC, defending, made an application to the court to prevent the publication of Robinson's address. He said that his client had been subject to 12 police visits where he was warned of threats to his life, known as Osman warnings.

Tommy Robinson, 41, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Courttoday charged with failing to comply with an exclusion order

Robinson attending court today has claimed he was attending the demo - the biggest protest against anti-Semitism in London since 1936 - as a 'journalist'

Tristan Kirk, a journalist from the Evening Standard, opposed the application on behalf of the press. He referred to the principle of open justice, and noted that the application had been made at the last minute, with little time for the press to prepare.

Judge Briony Clark refused the application.

Asked to give his address to the court, Robinson said that he had no fixed address.

Bail conditions that prevent Robinson from entering within the M25, or attending or organising a protest within London, remain in place.

He will next appear at City of London Magistrate's Court for trial on April 22.

During his arrest, officers sprayed Robinson with synthetic pepper spray and handcuffed him.

He uploaded a video of himself with partially closed eyes to social media after the confrontation.

Other footage of him arguing with police officers was also posted on his Twitter/X account, with Robinson claiming to be present as a journalist at the march.

Robinson (centre) being led away by police officers at the demonstration in London on November 26

Wearing a blue shirt and a black waistcoat in court today, Robinson spoke to confirm his identity and denied breaching a section 35 direction excluding him from an area
Dozens of schools across the UK have shut their doors as Storm Isha continues to unleash its wrath up and down the country - leaving thousands without electricity.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for the whole of the UK, predicting strong gales.

In Northern Scotland the warning was more urgent, with forecasters anticipating a 'danger to life'.

The area was placed under a red weather warning from 1am until 5am.

School across the country have closed their doors as Storm Isha continues to unleash havoc across the UK (pictured: Large waves hitting the harbour wall during Storm Isha in Newhaven, England)

The storm has sparked a day of hell for commuters with disrupted flights, ferries, cancelled trains and flooded roads. It has also left thousands of Brits without power

With heavy downpours and 99wpm wind, Storm Isha has disrupted electricity networks across the UK leaving several parts of the country have without power.

It has also sparked a day of travel hell for commuters, with disrupted flights, ferries, cancelled trains and flooded roads.

Fallen trees have affected impacted travel with Traffic Scotland reporting stretches of the M9 and M74 were closed throughout the night,

The A1 southbound was also closed at Thorntonloch due to an overturned lorry.

Tay Road Bridge, M48 Severn Bridge and the A66 in Durham and Cumbria between the A1(M) and the M6, were also shut due to high winds.

The Humber Bridge, A19 Tees Flyover and A628 Woodhead Pass in Derbyshire were also among stretches closed to high-sided vehicles.

In Scotland, Network Rail cancelled all passenger and freight trains across the country after a 'difficult night',

Services are estimated to begin again around noon, after Network Rail has inspected rail routes and repaired the damage.

Engineers equipped with chainsaws will have to clear the fallen trees and debris in at least 20 locations across the lines before they can operate once more.

As Storm Isha has run riot across the country effecting travel and power, have any schools in your area been affected?

Scroll down to see the full list of school closures as a result of Storm Isha.
How have YOU been affected by the storm?

How have YOU been affected by the storm? Email emily.davies@mailonline.co.uk

This is the moment a TalkTV journalist was nearly blown off his feet while reporting on Storm Isha.

TalkTV's Nick Ellerby and his cameraman struggled to stay upright as they delivered a broadcast about Isha's dangerous 100mph gales and heavy rain from Beachy Head in East Sussex.

From the studio, Julia Hartley-Brewer joked it looked like 'you're both drunk' as the gusts of wind pummelled the reporters.

Elsewhere, Sky News' Dan Whitehead was also seen trying to withstand the wind and rain in Porthcawl, Wales - while BBC Breakfast's Sharon Barbour braved the powerful gusts in Blackpool.

Mr Ellerby said: 'Here in Beachy Head in East Sussex I'm struggling to stay on my feet.'

Ms Hartley-Brewer replied: 'You are wobbling desperately, trying to stay upright in the incredible winds. Beautiful scenes behind you, but you're unnecessarily close to the cliff edge, you and the camera man. If I took the sound off it would look like you're both drunk.'

Mr Ellerby then said: 'Let's just keep that for the weekend! We are about five or 10 metres from the edge. This is basically as close as we can get without putting ourselves in danger.'

How have YOU been affected by the storm? Email emily.davies@mailonline.co.uk

One video shows Nick Ellerby from TalkTV in East Sussex, as both he and the camera filming him dramatically shake from side to side as they are battered by the winds

Speaking to TalkTv, Nick Ellerby said: 'Here in Beachy Head in East Sussex I'm struggling to stay on my feet'

But Ms Hartley-Brewer voiced her concern for the reporter, as she said: 'You are wobbling desperately, trying to stay upright in the incredible winds'

At the end of the clip Ms Hartley-Brewer joked: 'I don't know you you offended in management to get sent out there.'

Footage of Mr Whitehead in Porthcawl showed him reporting from the coast. He said: 'This is the start of an Amber warning we've been hearing about all day. You can probably tell that the wins are picking up here on the south coast of Wales. Behind me, the waves have been crashing over the breakwater all afternoon.'

To which the presenter replied: 'It's clearly extraordinarily windy because you're a big man and you're struggling in that. Stay safe.'

Meanwhile, for BBC Breakfast Ms Barbour appeared windswept as she said: 'The wind is still very strong and the waves are still very rough.'

But those online posted about their concern for the welfare of the journalists, with on X user writing: 'Totally irresponsible reporting.' Another added: 'I bet the camera crew are fuming.'

One user said: 'Why are you putting crews out in this?' and another added: 'Why do they always stand by the sea telling every how windy it is?'

A concerned public of the public said: 'So people have been warned to stay at home you somehow you need to send someone out to say its windy? No need.'

Thousands of people have been left without power as Isha brought disruption to the electricity and transport networks across the UK - and for many this may not return until Tuesday afternoon.

Fallen trees have affected transport with Traffic Scotland reporting stretches of the M9 and M74 were among roads closed throughout the night, while the A1 southbound was closed at Thorntonloch due to an overturned lorry.

For BBC Breakfast, Sharon Barbour braved the gusts of wind in Blackpool

Meanwhile, for BBC Breakfast Ms Barbour appeared windswept as she said: 'The wind is still very strong and the waves are still very rough'

In Appleby haunting sirens wailed across the Cumbria town as flood waters surged through the streets.

High winds forced the closure of the Tay Road Bridge, M48 Severn Bridge and the A66 in Durham and Cumbria between the A1(M) and the M6, while the Humber Bridge, A19 Tees Flyover and A628 Woodhead Pass in Derbyshire were among stretches closed to high-sided vehicles.

In Scotland after a 'difficult night' Network Rail has cancelled all passenger and freight trains across the country until they can inspect rail routes and repair the damage of the storm.

Footage of Dan Whitehead in Porthcawl showed him reporting from the coast

But those online posted about their concern for the welfare of the journalists, with on X user writing: 'Totally irresponsible reporting'

A fallen tree in in Southborough Lane Bickley, Bromley, south east London

Workmen who were attempting to clear a fallen tree which was blocking the A833

Flights were majorly disrupted and diverted, with one flight taking 11 hours only to end up back where it began

Water at the Falls of Dochart in Killin, Stirling after storm Isha blew through the area overnight

Massive queues stretched out of the station and around the block in Glasgow as passengers carrying large bags looked to get the first train out of the Scottish city.

Thousands of people have been left without power ESB Networks reported more than 170,000 properties in Ireland were without power while Electricity North West said crews had been stood down due to the conditions with almost 8,000 homes losing power.

The company said expected restoration times had been pushed back to 5pm on Tuesday.

Northern Ireland Electricity Networks said hundreds of extra staff had been brought in and incident centres opened after around 45,000 customers had been left without power, many of them overnight.

Rishi Sunak said the Government is working hard with authorities to restore power to homes remaining without it.

Speaking at the National Film and Television School, the Prime Minister said: 'The first thing to say is my thoughts are with all those who've been affected by the storm over the past day or so. My thanks also to all the emergency responders who have been working incredibly hard to support people.

'I would urge people to just continue to monitor the travel advice to make sure they're doing everything to keep them and their families safe.

'And regarding power, the progress we've made is almost 300,000 properties have had their power restored.

'Obviously, there are still some where that's not the case, but I want to reassure everyone we're working as hard as we can with the relevant authorities to get those people's power restored as quickly as possible.'

And famers have said their crops have been devastated by the foul weather as their fields are left flooded.

The National Farmers' Union's Peter Gade, speaking to BBC Radio 4's Farming Today, said: 'The whole field should look like winter wheat growing, as you can see at the top end of the field. But at the bottom end of the field we are competently overwhelmed by flood water as a result of the original Storm Babet and it has never gone away all winter.

'I would say of all of my cereals, my wheat and barley in the ground, probably some 40 per cent are affected and comprised. Either completely written off, which are un-insurancable losses off the bottom line and we don't know what we can retrieve in the spring.

'Of course, there is a shortage of seed across the country. We are just in a real pickle and its across the whole of the east side of the country from what I can see.'
A driver doing doughnuts in front of a crowd at a car meet up crashed into a parked truck, killing two of his passengers, including a teenage girl, and left another critically injured.

The 23-year-old driver of a white Chrysler 300 crashed into a red fuel truck parked near Bryant and Viele Avenues in Hunts Point, in the Bronx, New York City, at around 3:20am on Sunday morning, police said.

The victims, identified as 21-year-old Gilvante 'Gio' Roberson, sat in the front passenger seat and 15-year-old Sabrina Villagomez, who was in the back, were rushed to Lincoln Hospital, but neither could be saved.

A 17-year-old girl was taken to St. Barnabas Hospital in a critical condition, while the driver was taken to Harlem Hospital, where he is in a stable condition.

A local man who was an employee of the truck that the driver crashed into told local media: 'They were having a takeover car meet where they take over the block and lock the block up and do doughnuts and stuff.

Police officers seen investigating the crashed car as its parts scattered around following the vehicle crash

Police vehicles block the road and officers investigate as car parts are scattered following the vehicle crash

Sabrina Villagomez (pictured) was killed in the crash, after she sat in the back of the car

'The guy was going about 100 mph, it was very fast. Hit a bump. The car skid right into the truck.

'He hit a bump, lost control of the car and skid into that oil truck. It's a tragic accident.'

Sabrina's father, Jorge, told New York Daily news that he was asleep when news of his daughter's passing reached him.

He told the outlet that Sabrina, who lived with her mother in Nanuet, Rockland County in New York state, had become very unhappy in recent months.

'Three weeks ago, I take my daughter on vacation with me to Florida,' Villagomez said.

Police are still investigating, and are yet to decide whether to charge the driver

A 17-year-old girl was taken to St. Barnabas Hospital in a critical condition, while the driver was taken to Harlem Hospital, where he is in a stable condition

'I saw in the face she is not happy. She is no good. I ask her many times, 'What's wrong?' She said, 'Dad, I'm OK'.

'She was fine last week. My little girl, she is no more. It's very hard.'

Gio, meanwhile, spent hours before the crash sharing clips of the car meet, posting videos of stunts to his Instagram page.

In one post, cars were seen taking over a street in Queens and burning rubber in front of a cheering crowd.

The last post made to his Instagram account was right around the time of the crash.

The New York Police Department is still investigating the incident, and is yet to determine whether to charge the driver.

Roughly 100 people gathered at the site of the crash to pay their respects for the two people who lost their lives.

A family friend of Gio said his family is still wrapping their heads around the deadly crash.

'They're trying to figure out what was going on,' said the friend, who asked not to be named. 'The family is a little struck.

'I thought I was dreaming,' she added of the crash. 'I didn't think it was real.'
Energy bills are set to fall by the equivalent of 451 a year by the summer bringing relief to millions of struggling households, according to analysis.

The price cap on tariffs puts the current annual bill for a typical household at 1,928, however this is expected to fall 308 - 16 per cent - to some 1,620 from April 1.

Based on a new analysis of wholesale markets the figure is predicted to fall by a further 143 from July 1, taking it down to 1,497.

The figures come from analysts Cornwall Insight, who have a reliable track record in predicting price cap changes.

The firm said, at the moment, the figure is likely to go back up to 1,541 in October this year through to January. That would be significantly below this winter, but still relatively high by historic standards.

The figures come from analysts Cornwall Insight, who have a reliable track record in predicting price cap changes

The mild winter means demand for gas in the UK and across Europe has been below expectations.

As a result countries are able to rely on supplies held in storage rather than expensive imports from around the globe.

READ MORE - Should you leave the heating on low all the time? Energy tips that work and myths that don't Advertisement

At the same time the Middle East crisis and attacks on cargo ships and tankers in the Red Sea have not driven up wholesale prices to the extent expected.

Europe is also importing an increasing amount of liquified natural gas from the USA to replace supplies from Russia.

Cornwall Insight said: 'European gas stocks remain at higher than expected levels for the time of year, reflecting the relatively mild winter. This, combined with fairly healthy supply conditions, has seen wholesale prices fall since November.

'While concerns were raised about disruption to European gas supply with some Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) shipments being diverted away from the Red Sea, the UK is currently well-supplied by US LNG cargoes through the Atlantic market.

'Global supply conditions are also further aided by low LNG prices in the Asian market caused by mild weather and good availability in the region.'

However, Cornwall Insight warned that wholesale prices remain volatile and vulnerable to global events, which could lead to revisions in its forecasts.

There are also changes to way the price cap is set, including the way people are hit with high standing charges regardless of how much gas or electricity they use, in the pipeline.

The mild winter means demand for gas in the UK and across Europe has been below expectations

Dr Craig Lowrey, Principal Consultant at Cornwall Insight, said households 'can breathe a sigh of relief'.

He added: 'Healthy energy stocks and a positive supply outlook are keeping the wholesale market stable.

'If this continues, we could see energy costs hitting their lowest since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.'

Dr Lowrey warned: 'Though recent trends hint at possible stabilisation, a full return to pre-crisis energy bills isn't on the horizon.

'Shifts in where and how Europe sources its gas and power, alongside continued market jitters over geopolitical events, mean we are likely still facing costs hundreds of pounds above historical averages for a while, potentially the new normal for household energy budgets.

'Whether we can achieve long-term reductions in the UK's energy costs will hinge on breaking free from the volatility of imported energy prices.

'To make a real and lasting impact, we need to commit to a sustained transition to homegrown renewable energy sources, reducing our reliance on the volatile international energy market.'

Attacks on cargo ships and tankers in the Red Sea have not driven up wholesale prices to the extent expected. Pictured is a Houthi fighter walking along a beach in December

Richard Neudegg, director of regulation at Uswitch.com, said the predicted falls are 'little comfort for households struggling through the coldest time of year with high energy bills'.

He added: 'Consumers shouldn't count their chickens yet, however, as the further into the future predictions look, the less certain they are, given the wholesale energy market can change quickly.

'No one will know for sure how much they will be paying in April until the new price cap level is announced in February, making it hard for households to budget in these challenging times.

'We hope these predictions will encourage suppliers to bring back cheaper fixed deals.

'Ofgem should ensure it is encouraging suppliers to offer deals widely, and at competitive prices.'
X owner Elon Musk was Monday due to address anti-Semitism online at an event in Poland where he will be interviewed by conservative activist Ben Shapiro just weeks after sparking a firestorm by endorsing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory.

The conference, hosted by the European Jewish Association, comes after Musk in November repeated a tweet on the theory and declared it the 'actual truth' -- before apologizing.

Musk touched town in Poland early Monday on a private jet after which he took a Tesla from the airport.

Auschwitz concentration camp was the site where one million Jewish people were slaughtered at the hands of the Nazis. A total of six million Jewish people perished in total in death camps during World War II.

The tech tycoon has also faced accusations of a proliferation of hate speech on X, formerly Twitter, since his $44-billion takeover of the social media site in October 2022.

In the wake of Hamas' barbaric attack on Israel on January 7, the prevalence of antisemitism on the platform has been highlighted.

In December, the Anti-Defamation League said that compared against the same time last year, there had been a 337 percent increase in antisemitic incidents between October and the end of 2023.

Musk, holding his son X  A-12 , takes part in a private visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with European Jewish Association Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Ben Shapiro and Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev

Musk reviewing a map alongside Rabbi Menachem

Musk lights a candle during his visit behind a sign echoing the cry: Never Again

Musk pictured alongside Ben Shapiro at the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi German death camp in Oswiecim, Poland

Senior political figures from European countries and Musk will meet in Krakow 'to discuss and find solutions to the astronomical rises in anti-Semitism affecting Europe,' the European Jewish Association said

Musk arrived in Poland in a private jet and took a Tesla car from the airport

NEVER AGAIN means NEVER AGAIN.



Thank you @elonmusk for visiting Auschwitz at such a crucial time for the Jewish people.



Kudos to @benshapiro for accompanying this important visit. pic.twitter.com/syuBApQxQD  Yaakov Langer (@jacklanger) January 22, 2024

Senior political figures from European countries and Musk will meet in Krakow 'to discuss and find solutions to the astronomical rises in anti-Semitism affecting Europe,' the European Jewish Association said.

'This troubling trend' had been escalating since the war in Gaza, it said.

The conflict erupted when Hamas terrorists launched unprecedented October 7 attacks on Israel, resulting in the death of about 1,140 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Militants also seized about 250 hostages during the attacks, around 132 of whom Israel says remain in Gaza.

Israel has responded with a relentless bombardment and ground offensive has killed at least 25,1 05 people, mostly women and children, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Musk was due to speak on a panel at 4:00 pm local time alongside right-wing political commentator Ben Shapiro.

The symposium comes shortly before the 79th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp on January 27, a date that has become Holocaust Memorial Day.

The conference, hosted by the European Jewish Association, comes after Musk in November repeated a tweet on the theory and declared it the 'actual truth' -- before apologizing

Musk has also been accused of contributing to antisemitic conspiracy theories involving liberal philanthropist George Soros

One million European Jews died at the camp build by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland between 1940 and 1945, along with more than 100,000 non-Jews.

A visit to the site of the former death camp is planned for conference participants on Tuesday.

Gidon Lev - The Holocaust survivor and social media star who joined Elon Musk in Auschwitz Gidon Lev pictured talking with Elon Musk on Monday Gidon Lev, 88, is the holocaust survivor and social media star who accompanied Elon Musk on his visit to Auschwitz on January 22. A native of then-Czechoslovakia, most of his family were killed by the Nazis in the Theresienstadt ghetto between 1941 and 1945. Lev was freed by the Russian Red Army in 1945. He was ten years old. Following the end of the war, Lev and his mother immigrated to Canada via the USA. In 1959, he went to live in Israel, starting a farm in the Jezreel Valley. He served in the IDF during the Six-Day War and the War of Attrition in 1967. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Lev brought his message of education regarding the Holocaust to TikTok. On his page, Lev would regularly speak out about Holocaust denial. That same year, Lev demanded an apology for Joe Rogan after the comedian remarked that the coronavirus vaccine mandates were reminiscent of the Holocaust. In the wake of Hamas's attack on October 7, Lev said that he was forced to quit TikTok due to the amount of antisemitic comments he received. 'A had to leave Tiktok after the worst massacre against the Jews since the Holocaust. Imagine that,' his partner Julie Gray told USA Today. Advertisement

- 'Example to others' -

During a live discussion broadcast on X in September, European Jewish Association chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin invited Musk to visit Auschwitz.

Margolin said it would be 'a very strong statement' and 'could contribute a lot to Holocaust awareness and the struggle to combat anti-Semitism'.

Musk agreed that it could be 'helpful... as an example to others'.

Elsewhere in the discussion, Musk described himself as 'aspirationally Jewish' and said he had attended Hebrew pre-school.

'It's absurd to be accused of something when all the evidence points the other direction and my entire life story is in fact pro-semitic,' he added at the time.

Musk has threatened to file suit against the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish advocacy group, over its claims that problematic and racist speech has soared on the site since his takeover.

X Corp is also currently suing non-profit Media Matters on the grounds that it has driven away advertisers by portraying the site as rife with anti-Semitic content.

- 'Huge role to play' -

In a November comment on X, Musk called a post 'the actual truth' that said Jewish communities advocated a 'dialectical hatred against whites'.

The post was criticised as echoing a longtime conspiracy theory among White supremacists.

Musk's statement prompted a flood of departures from X of major advertisers and the White House accused him of 'abhorrent promotion' of anti-Semitism.

The social media titan later apologised for what he called 'literally the worst and dumbest post that I've ever done'.

He said it had been misinterpreted and that he had sought to clarify the remark in subsequent posts to the thread.

After the controversy, the SpaceX founder visited Israel but said the trip had been planned earlier and was not an 'apology tour'.

Israel's figurehead President Isaac Herzog told the tech mogul he has 'a huge role to play' to combat anti-Semitism.

'We need to fight it together because on the platforms which you lead, unfortunately, there's a harbouring of a lot of... anti-Semitism,' Herzog said.
The rapper son of London Riots gangster Mark Duggan has been arrested at an airport over firearms charges.

Tottenham based Kemani Duggan, 22, styles himself as Bandokay and performs as part of a group which has featured on the BBC.

Duggan was arrested at Gatwick Airport on Saturday 13 January and appeared at Thames Magistrates Court last Monday.

He was charged with possession of a handgun and ammunition without a licence, although the charges were unrelated to any incident at the airport itself.

He is charged with having a Tokarev Zastava Arms model M57 self-loading pistol and 23 rounds of ammunition in Hackney between Feb 19 and March 21 last year.

Tottenham based Kemani Duggan, 22, styles himself as Bandokay and performs as part of a group which has featured on the BBC

Kemani was just ten years old when his father, then 29, was gunned down by police as he tried to flee from a taxi in Tottenham.

Duggan is set to appear at Wood Green Crown Court on February 13 after being remanded into custody. He has yet to enter a plea.

Kemani was just ten years old when his father, then 29, was gunned down by police as he tried to flee from a taxi in Tottenham.

Duggans family has always insisted that the alleged founder of the notorious Star Gang, an offshoot of the Tottenham Mandem mob, was innocent.

Kemani has often spoken publicly about his father, notably in a recent Guardian profile, and named an album, M.A.R.K, after him.

The shooting sparked massive riots in 2011, which quickly spread to other parts of the country.

He was fatally wounded in Tottenham, north London, after armed officers intercepted a minicab he was travelling in on the basis of intelligence that he was carrying a gun.

Mark Duggan, 29, was shot dead by police officers on August 4, 2011, sparking riots in London and other cities across the country

Kemani has often spoken publicly about his father and named an album, M.A.R.K, after him

Mark Duggan's shooting sparked massive riots in 2011, which quickly spread to other parts of the country

The riots saw thousands of people cause mayhem in cities and towns across England

The riots saw looting and arson, as well as the mass deployment of police and the deaths of five people

Mr Duggan was shot twice by V53, the unidentified armed officer, - one of the shots, which hit him in the chest, was fatal.

A pistol was later found around seven metres away from the minicab.

The riots saw thousands of people cause mayhem in cities and towns across England. It saw looting and arson, as well as the mass deployment of police and the deaths of five people.

London was badly impacted, with numerous areas seeing violence. This spread into Birmingham, Coventry, Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester. More than three thousand people were arrested.

Duggan is widely hailed as one of Londons best young drill rappers and is part of a rap collective called the Original Farm Boys (OFB), which is allied to the Northumberland Park Killers (NPK) gang from Tottenham.

Duggan was arrested at Gatwick Airport last Saturday and appeared at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday charged with possession of a handgun and ammunition without a licence

Famously, Tanesha Melbourne-Blake, 17, was gunned down by suspected NPK members locked in a violent turf war with the 22 gang from nearby Wood Green.

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said: 'A man will appear in court charged with firearms offences.

'Kemani Duggan of Riversdale Road, N5 appeared at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday, 15 January charged with possession of a prohibited weapon (handgun) and possession of ammunition without a licence.

'He was remanded to appear at Wood Green Crown Court on 13 February.

'He was arrested at Gatwick Airport on Saturday, 13 January by officers from the Metropolitan Police'.
Eamonn Holmes has revealed he had to sell his beloved house in east Belfast to pay off a huge bill after a 250,000 tax battle with HMRC.

The TV presenter, 64, admitted he feels 'bitter' about having to sell his house after losing two appeals against HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) which set him back 'hundreds of thousands of pounds in legal fees'.

Speaking in an interview with his former UTV colleague Gerry Kelly, due to be screened next month, Eamonn claimed tax officials ruled he was a staff member with broadcasters rather than freelance.

They allegedly asked for 10 years of retrospective tax and national insurance payments from him.

He claims he never received holiday or sick pay, though he said he wasn't looking for sympathy. 'It's like they have taken away everything I ever worked for,' he tells the show on NVTV.

It comes after Lorraine Kelly escaped a 1.2 million tax bill after a judge described her as an 'entertaining lady' who is her own boss.

Eamonn Holmes has revealed he had to sell his beloved house in east Belfast to pay off a huge tax bill after a battle with HMRC (pictured with wife Ruth in 2021)

The host has revealed underwent spinal surgery following which he suffered a fall (Pictured being pushed by his son in February)

Lorraine Kelly previously escaped a 1.2 million tax bill after a judge described her as an 'entertaining lady' who is her own boss

Lorraine locked horns with the tax authorities over claims that the company through which she provides her services to broadcasters is just a front.

In 2016 HM Revenue and Customs presented her with an income tax bill for almost 900,000, plus national insurance contributions of over 300,000.

But in 2019 she scored a victory after a tax judge described her as an 'honest, intelligent' woman who is a super-talented freelancer.

She had created her own 'persona' and 'brand' and that is what broadcasters wanted when they took her on, said Judge Jennifer Dean.

In response Eamonn's tax battle, a HMRC spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We take the wellbeing of all taxpayers seriously and do everything we can for those who engage with us to get their tax affairs in order, including by offering affordable payment plans.'

Eamonn also spoke about his health in his interview, revealing his fears he may be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life following back surgery.

He said that because of an operation that 'went wrong' in the past year he has had to rely on his wife Ruth Langsford to dress him for his breakfast shows with GB News.

'I have tried every treatment, but you go, 'Maybe I'll never get out of it,' which is a harsh reality to face,' he said.

The TV presenter said in a chat back in September that he 'can't walk' as he gave a health update.

In a chat with guest Tim Franklin, Eamonn revealed how he was struggling to cope after undergoing spinal surgery the previous September, following which he suffered a horrific fall.

In spring 2021, Eamonn first experienced severe back pain, which left him reliant on a walking stick. He eventually discovered it was three slipped discs (Pictured in November 2021)

Eamonn Holmes's tax battle - and when is a person classified as in employment or self-employed? Eamonn Holmes was hit with a 250,000 sum in 2020 after losing a case against the taxman over how he was paid. The host of ITV's This Morning at the time claimed he was a freelancer, and received payments via his company. But Eamonn reveals tax officials ruled he was a staff member. He lost two appeals against HMRC which set him back 'hundreds of thousands of pounds in legal fees'. Tax officials allegedly asked for 10 years of retrospective tax and national insurance payments from him even though he claims he never received holiday or sick pay. The presenter said hes had to sell his Belfast house to pay his huge bills. A person is typically classed as employed if... They have an agreement to provide personal work or services

They turn up to work even if they do not want to

There is work for that person as long as the contract or agreement lasts A person is typically classed as self-employed if... They are responsible for the success or failure of their business in regards to profit and loss

They get to chose the hours they work, when they work and how they work

If that person can hire or fire workers

That person is free to work for other companies or take on other workers Advertisement

As Tim detailed his own health issues and back problems, Eamonn admitted he 'hadn't recovered' from his, confessing: 'I can't run, I can't walk, I can't do anything except watch TV and eat,.'

He explained: 'I just got problems last year in my back, which I haven't recovered from.

'It's not good, it's not a good recipe I have to say.'

A couple of weeks later, speaking to best Magazine, Eamonn said: 'Well, I can walk if that's what you mean (50 steps, to be exact) but I now accept life is easier with help from others.

'Getting around with crutches is exhausting. I wish I could walk further but, for now, I can't.'

In spring 2021, the star first started experiencing severe back pain, which came out of nowhere, and left him reliant on a walking stick.

He eventually discovered it was three slipped discs that affected the movement of his right leg.

In an interview with The Daily Mail, Eamonn told how a scan first revealed the three protruding discs, explaining: 'I still thought it would go away, but it didn't. The knock-on effect was that I lost a lot of use in my right leg.

'I got epidural injections, which helped to a degree, but didn't cure the problem. I started using a stick, so life was already becoming more curtailed.'

'The spine and all the nerves that lead off it affect so many other things, which he felt needed to be addressed first. I was crushed. I had been in severe pain for a year, and I desperately hoped this might be the answer.'

Instead, he spent nine days being monitored in hospital before returning to England - to a full work schedule, culminating in live coverage of the death of the Queen in September.

After contacting a specialist surgeon, Eamonn went under the knife in late September.

'It went well  the doctor tidied things up, and generally the pain has gone, which is brilliant,' he said.

However, the spinal surgery left him with a weakened left leg, too, and just over two weeks into his recovery from the operation, Eamonn fell backwards down 18 stairs at the Weybridge home, hitting the stone floor at the bottom.

The horrific accident could easily have killed him. Instead, he emerged with a broken shoulder, and his legs further weakened.
A Romanian killer who was jailed for hitting a grandmother with a wooden stick embedded with nails has now been charged with raping her, a court heard.

Valentin Lazar, 23, killed Maria Rawlings with a wooden stick embedded with nails and a knife in May 2021.

He has now been charged with raping her before leaving the 45-year-old's naked body in the undergrowth.

The labourer had crossed paths with Ms Rawlings on a bus before leading her into some nearby shrubbery. Her body was found by a dog walker the next day.

Lazar appeared at the Old Bailey today via video link from HMP Frankland, charged with rape.

Valentin Lazar, 23, (pictured) killed Maria Rawlings with a wooden stick embedded with nails

The labourer had crossed paths with Ms Rawlings on a bus before leading her into some nearby shrubbery. Her body was found by a dog walker the next day

Maria Rawlings with her father Tony Rawlings pictured before her death

The family of Maria Rawlings. Daughter Charlee Rawlings, father Tony Rawlings and daughter Katie Rawlings, outside the Old Bailey following the sentencing of Valentin Lazar

Prosecutor Bill Emlyn Jones KC, said: 'My lord will recall this defendant appeared before you for a charge of murder for which you sentenced him in February 2022.

'He now stands charged with rape in respect of the same victim Maria Rawlings of whose murder he has already been convicted.'

Judge Mark Lucraft, KC, the Recorder of London, adjourned the case until 11 March.

Lazar was assisted in court by a Romanian interpreter.

The East Ham resident previously admitted murder. He was branded 'evil' by Ms Rawlings's devastated family when he was jailed.

A post-mortem revealed she had been killed following compression to her neck. She had also suffered injuries to her mouth, chest and knee as well as 15 fractured ribs, and was found with more than 100 marks on her body.

Having left hospital without being seen, Ms Rawlings, who had alcohol issues, got on a bus just after 11pm, where her path crossed with Lazar.

The mother-of-two, who had been staying with her daughter in Witham, Essex, got off the bus when it terminated, along with her killer.

Flowers left at Little Heath, Romford, east London, where Ms Rawlings was found dead

They appeared on CCTV to engage in a brief conversation before Lazar guided his victim by the arm towards some shrubbery where they disappeared from view.

After 31 minutes, he emerged from the undergrowth alone, with Ms Rawlings's white handbag slung over his shoulder.

After the attack, Lazar boarded another bus, eventually arriving home after 1am.

A bus driver who saw him run across the road observed he had a 'drug-like energy', with his eyes being very wide and fixed.

Ms Rawlings' battered body was found in undergrowth by a dog walker at about 2.30pm the next day in the Little Heath area.

In statements by her two daughters and father, Ms Rawlings was described as a 'fun-loving soul who would never cause any harm to anyone'.

Her daughter Charlee Rawlings said: 'That evil man took a loving daughter, mum and nan. I hope that he gets everything he deserves and experiences the pain he has put us all through.'

Older daughter Katie Rawlings told how they used to work in a cafe together.

She said: 'My mum was such a bubbly person. She loved everyone and wore her heart on her sleeve.'

She described being haunted by thoughts of her mother's last moments and the unanswered question of why Lazar murdered her.

Father Tony Rawlings added that she had bipolar disorder, saying 'sometimes life was a struggle for her'.

She said Lazar, a labourer, had said: 'When I left Ms Rawlings she was alive. I did not intend to kill her.'
A fresh 'danger to life' warning has been issued as 80mph winds are set to hit the UK again tomorrow as Storm Jocelyn hits the UK - a day after Storm Isha battered Britain, killing three.

Almost all of the UK is set to be pummelled by the new tempest, with amber warnings for wind threatening a likely possibility of damage to buildings, power cuts and injuries from large waves.

The strongest winds are expected to affect western and northern Scotland from Tuesday evening, while yellow warnings for heavy rain have also been put in place for much of England.

The new warnings comes less than 24 hours after Isha hammered the country - leaving cars crushed under trees, roofs ripped off buildings, 70,000 homes without power and an 84-year-old man dead.

Thousands of people have been left without power as the storm brought disruption to the electricity and transport networks across the UK.

In Scotland, an 84-year-old man was killed after a Hyundai car crashed into a fallen tree on the A905, Beancross Road in Grangemouth at around 11.45pm last night. Police said he was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other occupants of the vehicle were not injured.

A Met Office map shows how the latest storm is expected to batter large parts of the country, leading to more disruption to travel and utilities.

And in Northern Ireland a man in his 60s has died in a road collision involving two vans and a fallen tree in Limavady, Co Londonderry, on Sunday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland has said. The man in the second van, a Citreon Berlingo, has been taken to hospital for treatment.

A third man died falling into a manhole after its safety barriers were toppled by the strong winds in Highgate Road, Bradford, when winds topping 80mph battered the north of England.

LIVE READ MORE: Storm Isha LIVE updates Advertisement

In Appleby, haunting sirens wailed across the Cumbria town as flood waters surged through the streets.

Fallen trees have affected transport with Traffic Scotland reporting stretches of the M9 and M74 were among roads closed throughout the night, while the A1 southbound was closed at Thorntonloch due to an overturned lorry.

High winds forced the closure of the Tay Road Bridge, M48 Severn Bridge and the A66 in Durham and Cumbria between the A1(M) and the M6, while the Humber Bridge, A19 Tees Flyover and A628 Woodhead Pass in Derbyshire were among stretches closed to high-sided vehicles.

After a 'difficult night' Network Rail has cancelled all passenger and freight trains across the country until they can inspect rail routes and repair the damage of the storm.

Britons are today facing commuter hell with rail services across the country cancelled after Storm Isha's 100mph gales and heavy downpours barrelled down on the nation overnight.

A highways boss has warned that it could take days for Britain to get back to normal as workers battle to clear the roads.

Nick Raymond, senior manager for highways, told of how his staff put their lives on the line in the face of flying debris as they worked to clear the backlog.

The National Farmers' Union's Peter Gade, speaking to BBC Radio 4's Farming Today, said: 'The whole field should look like winter wheat growing, as you can see at the top end of the field. But at the bottom end of the field we are competently overwhelmed by flood water as a result of the original Storm Babet and it has never gone away all winter.

'I would say of all of my cereals, my wheat and barley in the ground, probably some 40 per cent are affected and comprised. Either completely written off, which are un-insurancable losses off the bottom line and we don't know what we can retrieve in the spring.

'Of course, there is a shortage of seed across the country. We are just in a real pickle and its across the whole of the east side of the country from what I can see.'

Workmen who were attempting to clear a fallen tree which was blocking the A833 at Belladrum near Inverness

Workers used chainsaws to take apart the huge trunks as they tried to remove the enormous tree

The tree was felled by Storm Isha as it raced across the country, wreaking havoc for the UK

Shocking images show a tree felled by the storm on Gristhrope Road, in the Selly Oak area of Birmingham

Cars were left stranded under rising flood waters in shocking photos taken at Warwick Bridge, Cumbria

The submerged vehicles have been left by their owners as the waters engulfed them

Engineers equipped with chainsaws will have to clear the fallen trees and debris in at least 20 locations across the lines before the lines can get going again.

This included the remains of a garden shed, which had been blown onto the line at Bellgrove station in Glasgow, and a small fire had broken out after a tree fell on overhead wires in Gartcosh, Cumbernauld.

One woman told of her devastation after her new Tesla and husband's BMW M3 were crushed under a tree felled by Storm Isla.

Nicki Catterick, 45, said the storm was so loud she only found out about the huge damage after her high-tech car's app said it had detected something wrong.

The couple, from Kingswood, Surrey, thought their biggest problem this morning would be how to navigate cancelled trains, but now they are now battling to try and contact their insurance.

Nicki, who works in the pharmaceutical industry, said: 'I went and looked out of the window and you couldn't see my car because it was under a tree.

'They're expensive - it's devastating because my car is relatively new and I love it.

'I just feel devastated. We depend so much on our cars and I just feel really overwhelmed.

'Who do you call in this situation? There's a massive tree on both our cars, and right outside our front door. We feel like prisoners, really.'

The 600ft MSC Nicoleta II out in the rough seas about five miles off the coast of Cork in Ireland

The main high street in the Cumbrian village of Appleby is underwater this evening after the river broke its bank due to rain from Storm Isha - as a man scales scaffolding instead of using the flooded pavement

Crowds of commuters stranded King's Cross Train Station in London as trains operators announced stopping service to the north and Scotland

One woman told of her devastation after her new Tesla and husband's BMW M3 were crushed under a tree felled by Storm Isla

Network Rail Scotland added to their customers: 'Given the number of issues dealt with last night, and damage to infrastructure we already know of, such as fallen trees, and overhead wire damage in at least 20 separate locations, reopening Scotland's Railway is going to be a challenge. We'll keep you updated on progress.'

LNER has said that high winds between Doncaster and Berwick Upon Tweed mean all trains will run at reduced speeds today. They added that the Scottish railway is closed and there will be no trains north of Dunbar is closed until midday.

Network Rail imposed 50mph speed restrictions across most routes to keep passengers and trains safe from falling trees and debris blown onto tracks, with disruption expected into this morning.

An entire greenhouse was picked up by Storm Isha and thrown onto railway lines at Westgate-on-Sea, near Ramsgate in Kent, while there were also reports of a trampoline blocking the line at Rainham.

A spokesman said: 'The railway has recovered quickly this morning following Storm Isha with trees and debris cleared across routes in England and Wales, and route proving trains reporting lines clear.

'Passenger and freight services have restarted and a good service is expected in most areas. Passengers should still check before they head out for the latest travel news on trains operators' websites.

'The exception is Scotland where we do not expect to be able to restart services until around midday with dozens of lines shut due to fallen trees and flooding.

'Hundreds of engineers are already out, armed with chainsaws and cherry pickers to remove and repair. Once done, route proving trains will be dispatched before passenger services can restart.

'It's been a wild night, but passengers and railway staff have been kept safe and we will work tirelessly to get the railway back on its feet as quickly as we can.'

East Midlands Railway has said delays and alterations to its services were 'likely', while no LNER trains will run north of Newcastle until midday.

Avanti's West Coast service last night 'advised strongly' that passengers do not travel today, and tickets will be valid to use today or tomorrow, while customers could also get refunds.

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport after their flights were cancelled

Vehicles make a large splash as they are driven through a huge puddle following a downpour in Greenwich, South East Londo

Some sit on the floor as they are left stranded in the airport where three departing flights have been cancelled today and some are delayed by over six hours

CUMBRIA: The main high street in the Cumbrian village of Appleby underwater

Meanwhile, air traffic control restrictions were in place, leading to flight cancellations and causing some planes to divert. A flight travelling from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow Airport declared an emergency due to Storm Isha.

A spokesperson for Glasgow Airport said the TUI flight was 'diverted to Manchester due to current weather conditions'.

Thousands of people have been left without power ESB Networks reported more than 170,000 properties in Ireland were without power while Electricity North West said crews had been stood down due to the conditions with almost 8,000 homes losing power.

The company said expected restoration times had been pushed back to 5pm on Tuesday.

Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan said: 'We're expecting widespread gales to affect the UK, amber warnings are in place for large parts of the country.

'There's the potential for danger-to-life and damaging winds potentially leading to some power cuts in places, some large waves around coastal regions could bring some debris onto roads and trees could come down.'

He added: 'We have a wind warning in place across the whole of the UK, it's pretty unusual for the whole of the country to be under a blanket wind warning.'

The Met Office said 'everybody' has been affected by the storm
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Brave police officers who formed a human chain to pull a woman from her car after it became submerged in floodwater have been handed awards.

The rescue was captured on an officer's bodycam and it showed a policeman wading into the water and using his baton to smash open the car window.

The other officers formed a human chain by linking their arms together to stop him from falling into the deep water.

The woman had phoned 999 when she was up to her neck in water after her hybrid electric vehicle had stalled when she had tried to cross a ford.

It had then been washed into a river where she became trapped after her electric windows were unable to be lowered.

Police officers had to wade in and haul the woman from the vehicle as it slowly sank deeper into the water between Pershore and Drakes Broughton

An officer could be seen using a baton to smash through a window after the water caused the car's electric windows to be come disabled

After successfully smashing through the window, an officer pulled the woman from the car before the entire vehicle sank into the water

The West Mercia Police officers came to her rescue on Pinvin Ford at Bow Brook, Worcester, on April 25 last year.

The vehicle had been washed 32 ft downstream following heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

By the time the police reached the scene all that could be seen of the car was the rear quarter light window and as it was deep in the main flow of the river.

The police formed a human chain out into the river to serve as an anchor for PS Lee Baker who was at the front of the chain and in serious danger from the flowing water.

When he reached the car PS Baker saw the woman with her face close to the car roof managing to breathe the last of the air in the vehicle.

He initially tried to break the car window with a hammer but failed but then used his baton and, with the last of the air in the car ebbing away, he managed to smash the window and pull the woman through it.

While this was happening PC Shannon Murphy who was in the water was immediately behind PS Baker was providing tactical communications and keeping PS Baker in touch with the other members of the chain.

The driver can be heard saying sorry to the officers to which one responds: 'Don't apologise lovely, don't apologise.'

Another can be heard telling her 'we'll get your stuff later, just watch your legs' moments before they haul her from the broken car window.

The woman was rescued 20 minutes after she called police. The car later sank but she was unharmed.

The shocking footage showed the woman would almost certainly have drowned had it not been for the officers' quick-thinking.

The police officers formed a human chain, holding each other's hands, in order to access the vehicle

The officers managed to rescue the woman 20 minutes after she had called for help

At the time, West Mercia Police Chief Inspector Brian Gibbs said he was 'immensely proud' of the work of his team as they acted in the 'finest traditions' of policing by acting quickly and instinctively.

Now the six police officers involved in the rescue have all been given honours.

PS Baker and PCs Shannon Murphy, Matthew Anstiss, Erin Fairleads, Sam Quayle and Thomas Simmonds have all been given honours for forming a chain to pull her free.

PS Baker is to receive a Royal Humane Society Testimonial on Vellum, PC Murphy is to receive a Testimonial on Parchment and the other members of the chain are to receive Certificates of Commendation.

They have all also won the personal praise of Andrew Chapman, secretary of the Royal Humane Society.

'Time was of the essence in this incident,' he said.

'This was a horrifying scenario and if the police had not reached the scene when they did and then put themselves at risk to rescue the woman she would almost certainly have drowned.

'They did a magnificent job in very difficult circumstances.

'They showed some superb teamwork and as a result the woman was saved. They all richly deserve the awards they are to receive.'

The roots of the Royal Humane Society was founded in 1774 by two of the day's eminent medical men, William Hawes and Thomas Cogan.

Their primary motive was to promote techniques of resuscitation.

However, as it emerged that numerous people were prepared to put their own lives at risk to save others, the awards scheme evolved, and today a variety of awards are made depending on the bravery involved.
A headteacher has been awarded compensation after her boss 'undermined' her in front of an Ofsted inspector by threatening to put their child in a private school.

Deborah Lingard was 'humiliated' in front of the inspector when CEO Yvonne Brown said she would pull her own son out of the headteacher's school over a marking error.

Mrs Brown, chief executive of a trust that run the primary school, had noticed the error was made on her son's books by a Year 5 teacher and laid into Mrs Lingard over it.

Mrs Brown threatened her that 'unless matters improved' she would be pulling her son out of the school and putting him in a 11,000 a year private school.

Mrs Lingard, who was left red-faced in front of the school inspector, has now successfully sued for unfair constructive dismissal. She was awarded 190,804 by the employment judge; however as her disability discrimination complaint failed the compensatory award was subject to the statutory cap.

Yvonne Brown (pictured) said she would pull her own son out of the headteacher's school over a marking error, humiliating her in front of an Ofsted inspector

Manchester Employment Tribunal heard 'talented' Mrs Lingard joined Tyldesley Primary School, in Manchester, in 2002, as a teacher.

She worked her way up to assistant headteacher at the 'outstanding' school and then was appointed headteacher in September 2016.

In November that year, Mrs Brown - CEO of Leading Learners Multi Academy Trust, which runs Tyldesley Primary School - told Mrs Lingard that inspector Leszek Iwaskow was due to visit.

A tribunal report said: 'On November 2, Mrs Lingard said that Mrs Brown told her that a further inspector would be visiting the school at midday, Leszek Iwaskow, and that she wanted her to meet with him as he would be doing some work in the school on the curriculum at some point in the future.

'[A] challenging high achievers issue was discussed in this meeting and Yvonne Brown went to get some books from the nearest classroom to assist the discussion.

'This included her son's books as he was a high achiever and Yvonne Brown noticed a marking error by the Year 5 teacher and began to criticise the teacher.

'Mrs Lingard said that Mrs Brown went on to say that unless matters improved she would be taking her son out of the school and putting him in Bolton School, the local private fee-paying school.'

Mrs Brown disputed saying this but the tribunal ruled that she did.

Employment Judge Pauline Feeney ruled the 'humiliating' incident amounted to a breach of employment law.

Judge Feeney said: 'We found that Mrs Brown did produce her son's books in front of Mr Iwaskow, criticised the way he was being taught and threatened to move him to a local private school.

'Clearly that seriously undermined and humiliated Mrs Lingard in front of a stranger but one who was going to play an important role in improving the school.

'There was no reasonable and proper cause for saying this in front of a third party.'

Mrs Lingard claimed her treatment at school led her to being off work sick and she resigned in March 2017.

As well as the 'undermining incident', the tribunal ruled Mrs Lingard was constructively dismissed on other grounds.

In one meeting, Mrs Brown was found to have been 'aggressive and hostile' to Mrs Lingard by telling her she was not up to the job.

In another instance, Mrs Lingard was told she would be subjected to 'capability proceedings' to consider her performance when she returned to work from time off sick as part of the school's bid to 'pressure' her into taking a settlement and leaving.

In a separate incident, Mrs Lingard was told she would not have a grievance she had issued dealt with unless she saw a clinical psychologist.

Judge Feeney added: 'We consider these individually and collectively to be fundamental breaches, in that there was no attempt to support Mrs Lingard in her illness, but rather to put unreasonable pressure on her.'

Mrs Lingard, who has hypertension, went off work in November 2016 due to stress and anxiety.

Her claims of disability discrimination failed.
The camera remains in place and Mr Prior fears there could be more

Mr Prior claims the police said they were powerless to act

A grandfather has been told it's 'not a police matter' after he found a secret camera pointed at his grandson's treehouse that might have been put there by a convicted paedophile.

Martin Prior, 65, first contacted police on December 22, 2023, after discovering a CCTV camera placed on a lane by his property in Cross Keys, near Hereford.

An officer visited the next day and spoke to the suspected owner of the camera but Mr Prior was shocked when the police said they were powerless to act.

A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: 'We are aware of a concern raised about the placement of a CCTV camera.'

'However, no crime has been reported to us and therefore it is not a police matter. CCTV concerns need to be raised with the Information Commissioner's Office.'

Martin Prior, 65, with the CCTV camera he discovered filming his property. Mr Prior fears the camera is being used by a convicted paedophile to film his grandson

Mr and Mrs Priors' grandson used to visit with his friends but they have had to 'severely curtail these visits to protect these children from the possibility of being filmed'

The camera pointed at Mr Prior's property. It remains in place on land which is not owned by the sex offender and does not cover his property

The statement continues: 'We can neither confirm nor deny the location or identity of a registered sex offender in the community.'

The camera remains in place on land which is not owned by the sex offender and does not cover his property.

Mr Prior said: 'We are worried that the sex offender may have concealed other cameras aimed at our property.

'Our grandson is semi-resident with us; until this camera was placed, his young friends and relatives, male and female, came to play here.

'But we have had to severely curtail these visits to protect these children from the possibility of being filmed.

'Our niece is not allowed to visit us at all while this horrible situation persists.'

West Mercia Police recommended Mr Prior's concerns be raised with the Information Commissioner's Office, which is responsible for enforcing the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and offers advice and assistance to individuals.

Online advice from the Information Commissioner's Office says: 'The use of recording equipment, such as CCTV or smart doorbells, to capture video or sound recordings outside the user's property is not a breach of data protection law.

'People should try to point their CCTV cameras away from their neighbours' homes, shared spaces, or public streets. But this is not always possible.

'When people capture images and audio recordings outside of their boundary, they should consider how intrusive this activity is.

'If someone is recording your child using CCTV, we would suggest talking to the person doing the recording.

'If you feel the person is filming your child inappropriately or to cause them harm, you should contact the police.'
Donald Trump said it's 'highly unlikely' that he would have Ron DeSantis in his administration and that he doesn't 'see a path' for Nikki Haley to the nomination as New Hampshire voters prepare to go to the polls on Tuesday.

The former president sat down with Fox News' Lawrence Jones to discuss the state of the Republican presidential race. The interviewed aired on Monday, the day Trump will be back in a New York court for E. Jean Carroll's defamation suit against him. The former president will back in New Hampshire Monday night for a rally.

He said he appreciated Ron DeSantis' endorsement after the former governor dropped out of the contest on Sunday but said he didn't see him serving as his running mate or in his administration.

'Well, it's probably unlikely but you know, I have to be honest, everything is a possibility, but I think it's highly unlikely. I have a lot of great people. And I have great people that have been with me right from the beginning,' he said.

Donald Trump said it's 'highly unlikely' that he would have Ron DeSantis in his administration

He also blasted Haley, who remains in the race against him.

'I don't see a path for her at all,' he said of her presidential campaign.

And he said he was 'very upset' with her for running against him after he made her his ambassador to the U.N.

'I would say with Nikki I haven't done anything. I'm very upset with her,' he said. 'She worked for me like two and a half years. She was okay. Not great. She was okay. She said to everybody, in fact, when she left, I would never run against the president.'

The former president is leading in the polls of the first-in-the-nation presidential contest by double digits.

A Washington Post/Monmouth University poll found that 52 percent of primary voters are supporting Trump, while 34 percent are backing Haley.

DeSantis dropped out of the race on Sunday night, threw his support to Trump and blasted Haley.

in his video announcement, DeSantis noted: 'It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance. They watched his presidency get stymied by relentless resistance and they see Democrats using lawfare to this day to attack him.'

'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.'

Ron DeSantis dropped out of the presidential race on Sunday and endorsed Trump

'I would say with Nikki I haven't done anything. I'm very upset with her,' Donald Trump said of Nikki Haley (above, campaigning in New Hampshire). 'She worked for me like two and a half years. She was okay. Not great'

'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.

DeSantis' endorsement of Trump came after he has repeatedly criticized the former president, questioning his age and arguing he'll inspire Democrats to come out in droves to support Biden.

Trump, for his part, said on Sunday he would retire the nickname 'Ron DeSanctimonious' now that the Florida governor endorsed him.

Haley simply said of the race: 'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, he's been a good governor and we wish him well. Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.'
Overshadowed by new headquarters Apple Park just two miles away since 2017

Apple's iconic Infinite Loop store has sold its last iPhones and branded merch t-shirts as it closes after 31 years.

The store was part of Apple's former headquarters in Cupertino in Silicon Valley, California, and a mecca for fans of the company's products.

Apple confirmed the store would close last month after years of being overshadowed by the new 'mothership' Apple Park just two miles away.

Hundreds of fans rushed to the store on Saturday for their last chance to shop at a piece of tech history before the doors closed for the last time at 6pm.

Apple's iconic Infinite Loop store has sold its last iPhones and branded merch t-shirts as it closes after 31 years

The oldest Apple owned retail store has closed forever after 31 years



So long, One Infinite Loop Company Store 1993-2024@MajorTomToG helped me capture the stores final moments. We made what could be the final purchase at 6:02PM PST



A crew was packing up the store at 6:08PM pic.twitter.com/VNsvwyMZlG  Mr. Macintosh (@ClassicII_MrMac) January 21, 2024

Workers were already packing up the shelves minutes later ahead of a renovation that is expected to take several months.

'After many years of serving customers at our stores in the Bay Area, we plan to close our store at Infinite Loop,' the company said.

'All of our valued team members will have the opportunity to continue their roles with Apple. We look forward to welcoming our customers at our nearby Apple Park Visitor Center and other locations.'

The shop originally just sold merchandizing and was known as The Company Store, the only part of the famed headquarters open to the public.

A renovation in 2015 converted it into a standard Apple store selling iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches and a smaller selection of merchandise.

Hundreds of customers waited in enormous lines in 90F heat to get a free black t-shirt that interfaced with Apple Music.

As one of the smallest stores, it lacked the 'Genius Bar' tech support and other features of bigger locations.

The Apple Park store, by contrast, boasts a cafe, rooftop terrace, and immersive AR model along with all the features of the biggest stores.

The enormous ring-shaped building cost $5 billion and supplanted Infinite Loop as the center of the Apple empire, though some staff still work at the old HQ.

Hundreds of customers waited in enormous lines in 90F heat when the store reopened in 2015 to get a free black t-shirt that interfaced with Apple Music

A renovation in 2015 converted it into a standard Apple store selling iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches and a smaller selection of merchandise

Apple Park, the enormous ring-shaped building that cost $5 billion, supplanted Infinite Loop as the center of the Apple empire

Apple said it was opening new stores in the US, China, India, Korea, and the UK this year, and bringing the Apple Store Online to Chile and Vietnam.

Infinite Loop was only robbed once, in March 2016 when six laptops and an iPhone worth a combined $9,243 were stolen.

Silicon Valley and nearby San Jose has fared better than San Francisco, farther up the bay, where economic downturn prompted companies to move out.

Accounting firm KPMG is set to move out of its $400 million namesake building in downtown and San Francisco Centre mall lost its fifth store in a month.

Madewell, J Crew, Adidas, Lucky Brand and Aldo, all either moved already or said they planned to imminently.

The shopping mall - which is 75 percent empty - lost $1 billion in value since 2016. Comparable malls usually run at an average of 93 per cent occupancy.

Nordstrom was the mall's anchor tenant and occupied a 312,000-foot, multi-floor space in the mall.

As one of the smallest stores, it lacked the 'Genius Bar' tech support and other features of bigger locations

The store was part of Apple's former headquarters in Cupertino in Silicon Valley, California, and a mecca for fans of the company's products

It's closure in August 2023 sent shock-waves through the large, upmarket shopping center which was previously owned by Westfield.

The mall still contains a large Bloomingdales - but all eyes are now on that retail giant to see whether it shuts up shop, too.

The high-profile closures and exits suggest San Francisco's 'doom loop' is far from over. A doom loop is where a city loses its tax base and can't afford improvements needed to fix the situation to bring new businesses and residents back to an area.

The city's downtown has suffered from the proliferation of homeless encampments, open-air drugs markets and rampant theft.
A man has issued a warning about acid attacks in London after having a liquid substance sprayed in his face by a stranger on a moped.

The victim, who is yet to be identified, posted a video on social media describing the horrific incident which left him in hospital on Friday, January 19.

In the footage he says was driving home in Surbiton, south west London, when a random person started 'screaming' at his car window whilst he was on the phone.

The driver then wound down his window and claims to have had neat ammonia sprayed in his face and eyes at the junction of Brighton Road and Portsmouth Road.

The man, whose eyes are very red and swollen in the video, was transferred to St George's Hospital to see a specialist eye consultant and initially feared he was going blind, but has since been discharged.

Scotland Yard is now investigating the incident and say initial tests indicate a less harmful substance than ammonia was used.

The victim, who is yet to be identified, posted a video on social media describing the horrific incident which left him in hospital on Friday, January 19

The man, whose eyes are very red and swollen in the video, was transferred to St George's Hospital to see a specialist eye consultant

In the footage, the man says was driving home in Surbiton, south west London, when a random person started 'screaming' at his car window whilst he was on the phone

Officers from the Metropolitan Police attended the incident just after 6pm with emergency service workers and said they were 'pleased' the man had been discharged from hospital.

The force say they will utilise all available tactics, including analysis of CCTV and of the liquid, to investigate what happened.

An assessment of whether the liquid sprayed was harmful or not will form part of the ongoing investigation, police said.

The Met confirmed there had been no arrests at this stage, but appealed for witnesses of the event to contact them.

A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: 'Officers attended the incident along with emergency services colleagues. We are pleased that the man has been discharged from hospital following treatment.

'Detectives from the Met's South West CID are investigating. Their investigation will utilise all available tactics, including analysis of CCTV and of the liquid, which initial tests indicate is a less harmful substance than ammonia.

'Any witnesses or anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to call 101, ref CAD 4727/20jan, or to remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers.'

In the video, the man tells people to 'never open your car window when someone pulls up next to you'.

He said: 'So i was driving home in Serpentine this afternoon and a guy was screaming at my window of my car and I was on the phone to a sponsor. When I wound down my window, the guy sprayed neat ammonia in my face and in my eyes.

'I've never seen the guy before. He was driving a moped. So it was just a random attack. So my message to you is never open your car window when someone pulls up next to you and starts screaming at your car because I've just had acid sprayed in my eyes.'
The teen has since gotten stronger in rehab and hopes that he will walk again one day

Ayers said he knew he was 'instantly paralyzed' after he was slammed into a piece of mental inside the company's box truck

Jordan Ayers, 18, was left paralyzed after a stack of tables weighing 800lbs crushed him on June 8 in Pacific, Missouri

A Missouri teenager was left instantly paralyzed after he was crushed by 800lbs worth of tables while he worked for an event company as he adjusts to life being confined to a wheelchair.

Jordan Ayers, 18, was just three weeks into his new job when multiple tables fell on him inside a truck on June 8 in Pacific, Missouri.

As he grabbed the one, the rest of the folding tables toppled down, leading him to hit his head, throw him back, and hit his neck.

Ayers had just graduated high school and celebrated his birthday before the life-changing incident. He has since gotten stronger in rehab and hopes that he will be able to walk again one day.

'You have to be positive being like this but everyone helps me so much. They brighten my day every day,' Ayers told KMOV.

Jordan Ayers, 18, was crushed by 800lbs worth of tables in a box truck during his third week working for an event company on June 8 in Pacific, Missouri

Ayres has since been released from the hospital and is in rehab five days a week and has a bit more mobility in his body

The teen said he knew that he was 'instantly paralyzed' after he was slammed into a piece of metal inside the company's box truck.

According to his mother Tabitha Hardy, the impact of the crush shoved his C5 disc up into his spinal cord. The C5 disc is located in the lower cervical spine, in the neck area.

The teen told his mother he was unable to move as soon as he was crushed. His shoulders and elbows were immobile, and he could only communicate by mouthing words.

Ayers quit his job at the event company, which has not been named, but is located in Fenton, Missouri.

His mother told KSDK in June that she did not hear from the company following the accident.

'They have said nothing. They've not contacted me and said sorry. They've not gave me his last check. Nothing at all,' Hardy said.

The teenager adjusted to his new life as he spends five days a week in rehab and has become wheelchair-bound.

'I was scared because I didn't want to be like this. It's different whenever you're in a chair,' he said.

Ayers had just graduated high school and celebrated his birthday before the life-changing accident

His mother, Tabitha Hardy, said in June that she did not hear anything from the event company following the accident and that her son did not receive his final paycheck

The Jefferson county community has also been extremely supportive to both Ayers and his family during this difficult adjustment. Kevin Wilson, a school resource officer who knew Ayers when he was a student almost immediately jumped in to help.

'This kid had so many goals and such a bright future. I knew automatically I needed to try to help him out,' Wilson said.

The resource officer then shared Ayers's story with Sam Muehlenbeck, a school district employee who wanted to help out as well.

'Immediately as a mom, I thought, "Man this could have been my son," so whatever I could do to help, I was going to do,' Muehlenbeck said.

Wilson and Muehlenbeck then decided the teen and his family would need an accessible ramp at their house for Ayers to use.

With the help of Muehlenbeck's husband and a crew, a ramp was installed outside the family's home.

Materials for the ramp were donated by Lowe's and a shed was also gifted as a place to store all of Ayers's supplies.

The teen said he is 'very grateful' to everyone who has helped and that he hopes he will one day walk again.

The teen said that he is 'very grateful' to everyone who has helped and that he hopes he will one day walk again

With the help of a school resource officer and school district employee that knew and heard of Ayers story, they donated and built a ramp for him outside of the family's home

Ayers's mother also said he has suffered from depression during this long and painful journey, but has gotten help for that as well

'Whenever I first got hurt, I couldnt move anything but I could shrug my shoulders a little bit. Now I have most of my arms and I can do a lot more,' he said.

His mother also said that he has suffered from depression during this long and painful journey, but has gotten help for that as well.

'You have to be positive being like this but everyone helps me so much. They brighten my day every day,' Ayers said.

A GoFundMe page has been created in honor of the teen and his family as they continue to navigate their new way of life.

On November 8, Hardy posted an update on the page which revealed that donated funds helped the family afford to stay with Ayers at the hospital before he returned home.

'He is so strong. I am so very proud of his accomplishments and strength through such a traumatic situation,' his mother said on the donation page.
Progressive Democrats in Washington state are in hot water after advocating to add a convicted sex offender to a board that guides sentencing for such crimes.

Democrats in the state legislature introduced a bill earlier this month that would rename the 'Sex Offender Policy Board' to the 'Sex Offense Policy Board,' and subsequently add a convicted convicted offender to the group.

The offender would contribute 'lived experiences' that supporters of the bill call 'invaluable.'

The bill reads: 'One representative with lived experience with incarceration for a sex offense appointed by the chair of the sex offense policy board and approved by a majority vote of the board's voting membership' will have a spot on the board.

The Sex Offense Policy Board is working to officially incorporate the viewpoint of a convicted sex offender into its work. Democrats in the state legislature introduced a bill earlier this month that would rename the 'Sex Offender Policy Board' to the 'Sex Offense Policy Board,' and subsequently add a convicted convicted offender to the group.

As the legislature has issued policy after policy that prioritize the rights of the offenders over the rights of community members, concerned citizens have begun protesting the new rules

Conservative radio host Jason Rantz noted the bill would allow for a Level Three offender - the most dangerous sort - to sit on the board.

Republican state Rep. Dan Griffey also blasted the bill and questioned why there is a need for an 'advocate' for sex offenders, according to Fox News Digital.

The sex offender would be on the board along with at least one victim of a sex crime, who would also serve in a newly established seat on the board.

A Democrat sponsoring the bill, State Representative Tarra Simmons, has advocated for victims to sit on the board beside offenders. Simmons is herself a convicted criminal who has served time for three felony convictions for possession of controlled substances and theft.

Simmons says the legislature should be diverse, which, in her opinion, includes ex-convicts.

'I'm proud to be here. I think I bring some lived experience that was missing from here,' she said at a recent hearing.

'While some people may have a stigma for people who have committed a sex offense, I think they have invaluable information to share that can really guide this board.'

Board chair Brad Meryhew said the idea of adding a sex offender to the policy board is the 'sort of reality check that we always need in public policy.'

'And I welcome the opportunity to have those voices at the table and to do everything I can to facilitate their active participation in our process,' he continued.

Meryhew is a private defense attorney, who has worked on behalf of individuals accused of sexual misconduct, which some say presents a conflict of interest regarding his work on the board.

Board Chair Brad Meryhew said the perspective of a convicted offender will be the 'sort of reality check that we always need in public policy'

Board member Tarra Simmons is herself a convicted criminal who has served time for three felony convictions for possession of controlled substances and theft - she is advocating for the inclusion of diversity among the board by way of another ex-con

Residents in some of the places where sex offenders were being housed have protested the policies, especially after finding out that their state government often has trouble keeping track of the offenders once they are released

The board was first established in 2008 for the purpose of conducting case reviews of sex offense cases and policy positions.

The group is made up of 13 members, each appointed by Governor Jay Inslee.

Washington state Democrats have long been working to make life easier for sex offenders.

In 2021, the group passed legislation that allowed the state to more easily release violent sexual predators across the state.

Residents in some of the places where sex offenders were being placed have protested the policies, especially after finding out that their state government often has trouble keeping track of the offenders once they are released.

One concerned citizen with young children told a local Fox station last year that the legislature's policy is a 'recipe for disaster.'

'If you can't keep accountability for the lower sex-offenders, how can we trust you and your organization to keep accountability for the worst of the worst?' she said.

At the time that the policy was made official, Democrat State Sen. Christine Rolfes said the new ruled were about giving people 'who are potentially dangerous, but not necessarily dangerous' back into communities 'where they can live safely and with their constitutional liberties protected.'

The next year, the board issued a recommendation that would end the rule prohibiting the facilities that house the re-integrated sex offenders from being built within 500 feet of a childcare facility.
MSNBC host Joy Reid has been branded an 'idiot' after criticizing the co-founder of Moms for Liberty for advocating the ban of a book featuring graphic sex from schools.

The progressive anchor attacked Tiffany Justice over her 'expertise' in questioning the propriety of the memoir All Boys Aren't Blue, a title that has been banned in 29 districts across the country.

'What is the expertise that you have and other Moms for Liberty advocates have to decide that a book, an award-winning book ... isn't appropriate for students read,' Reid said.

Justice shot back: 'In what context is a strap-on dildo acceptable for public school, I mean that's my question to you.'

Reid refused to answer that question, instead claiming Justice was unable to name the author George M. Johnson. Justice did, in fact, know the first name of the author.

Johnson's 'memoir-manifesto' includes a chapter which deals with sexual abuse he suffered as a child, including by a member of his own family. It features graphic descriptions of sex including lube, dildos and anal penetration.

Reid's interview was seized upon by Megyn Kelly who posted on X: 'This idiot actually wanted to know what "expertise" Tiffany Justice has to object to minors in school reading about strap-on dildos & incestual pedophilia.'

MSNBC host Joy Reid (left) and Moms for Liberty co-founder Tiffany Justice (right) clashed over book bans during a Friday interview

Reid grilled Justice on her expertise and parental rights. Justice responded, 'I don't have to be an expert to know that dildos are not appropriate for public school'

Reid told Justice during the interview: 'What I am saying to you is you are not an expert in this book.'

Justice replied: 'I don't have to be an expert to know that dildos are not appropriate for public school, I mean come on let's get real.'

Reid asked why shouldn't a parent whose child might feel seen by this story have the right to let them read it.

Justice countered with saying if a child feels seen by this story that means they have been a victim of a predator.

Reid then accused her of claiming to be an expert again and asked her for proof that a child had been raped.

A central chapter of All Boys Aren't Blue focuses on sexual abuse author Johnson experienced around age 13.

In September, Senator John Kennedy read a passage from the memoir during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

He quoted the book verbatim, telling the hearing: 'I'd put some lube on and got him on his knees, and I began to slide into him from behind. I pulled out of him and kissed him while he masturbated. He asked me to turn over while he slipped a condom on himself.

'This was my a** and I was struggling to imagine someone inside me. He got on top and slowly inserted himself into me. It was the worst pain I think I have ever felt in my life. Eventually, I felt a mix of pleasure with the pain.'

During the MSNBC interview, the two discussed an 'opt-out form' available in Broward County, Florida that allows parents to say their child cannot check out books from the library without their permission.

The book at the center of Reid and Justices debate was All Boys Aren't Blue by George M. Johnson, which has been banned in 29 school districts

Moms for Liberty was added to the Southern Poverty Law Center's list of 'hate and anti-government groups' in June. Pictured Tiffany Justice (left) speaking before Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on July 15, 2022

'Maybe we can just put all the books with all the graphic sexual content, the dildos, the raping,' Justice said.

Reid said, 'I'm so sorry, excuse me, excuse me, excuse me. I have seen tapes of what Moms For Liberty does, and you all go into school board meetings and you read graphic stuff.'

Justice said, 'Joy, this is a disingenuous conversation. America used to understand that there's a thing called age-appropriate content.'

In June, Moms for Liberty was added to the Southern Poverty Law Center's list of 'hate and anti-government groups' after it gained national media attention for its efforts to fight COVID safety measures in schools, book bans, limit discussion about race and LGBTQ identities and populate local school boards with conservatives.

The groups other co-founder Bridget Ziegler has been facing calls to resign from the Sarasota school board after her husband Christian Ziegler was accused of raping woman 'who was part of their menage-a-trois.'
This is the incredible moment a huge silverback gorilla emerged from the undergrowth inches away from stunned tourists before posing for pictures during a safari in Rwanda.

Video shows a group of seven tourists sitting down next to park rangers in the Volcanoes National Park, northwest Rwanda, when suddenly the large male ape strides towards them.

One tourist can be seen quickly moving out of the gorilla's path, missing him by mere inches, before the silverback moves up the hill and into the deep undergrowth while making deep rumbling noises - a sign of contentment.

The astonished tourists, overcome with what they had just witnessed, squealed with excitement while one can be heard saying: 'Oh my god.'

Another clip shows the silverback mountain gorilla, named Lisanga, moving back towards the tourists and sitting down in front of them before posing for pictures.

Video shows a group of seven tourists sitting down next to park rangers in the Volcanoes National Park, northwest Rwanda, when suddenly the large male ape strides towards them

Another clip shows the silverback mountain gorilla, named Lisanga, moving back towards the tourists and sitting down in front of them before posing for pictures

A guide can be heard laughing in the background as the huge animal appears to be striking poses for the cameras.

The footage was captured by Cameron Scott, who runs the Royal Ngala Safaris travel company, in the Volcanoes National Park.

'Lifechanging Silverback encounter,' Cameron said. 'A moment my guests will never forget. A large Silverback Mountain gorilla emerges mere feet away from my clients and proceeds to flaunt his majestic beauty off in a powerful yet graceful manner.'

'These moments out in the wild are what it is all about and we can not be more grateful towards all the park rangers , trackers and conservationists behind the scenes that make all of this possible,' Cameron added.

After posing for photographs in front of the tourists, the silverback can be seen marching past them - straight towards where Cameron was standing.

The quick-thinking guide pushed himself backwards into the thick bushes, successfully creating enough space for the gorilla to move past him and into the undergrowth.

'When a massive Silverback decides to move, you get out of the way fast. In this particular circumstance I had my back to thick bushes and had nowhere else to go. It was a close encounter for sure,' Cameron said.

Volcanoes National Park covers 160 square kilometres of rainforest and is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas in the wider Virunga Conservation area.

The national park was formed to protect mountain gorillas, which were facing the threat of extinction as a result of poaching and war.

Within Volcanoes National Park, tour groups are limited to eight people at a time, with only an hour spent observing gorillas.

Tourists are not allowed cant carry food or even water bottles near the animals, lest a curious silverback snatch them and perhaps be exposed to your germs.

And tourists are told not to hold eye contact for too long. And if a gorilla acts aggressive  which is rare  look down, bend your knee and show you acknowledge its authority.

This is why in the video captured by Cameron, some of the tourists can be seen averting their gaze after a while and looking down.

Another clip shows the silverback mountain gorilla, named Lisanga, moving back towards the tourists and sitting down in front of them before posing for pictures

Volcanoes National Park covers 160 square kilometres of rainforest and is home to the highest number of mountain gorillas in the wider Virunga Conservation area

American primatologist Dian Fossey had predicted that the species would go extinct by 2000 before she died in 1985. Before her death, she created the world's longest-running study of gorillas inside the Volcanoes National Park.

And thanks to a concerted and sustained conservation campaign, experts have averted the worst and given a second chance to these great apes, which share about 98% of human DNA.

In 2018, the Switzerland-based International Union for Conservation of Nature changed the status of mountain gorillas from 'critically endangered' to 'endangered,' an improved if still-fragile designation, reflecting new survey data.

It wouldn't have happened without an intervention some biologists call 'extreme conservation,' which has entailed monitoring every single gorilla in the rainforest, periodically giving them veterinary care  to clean infected wounds, for instance  and funding forest protection by sending money into communities that might otherwise resent not being able to convert the woods into cropland.

Instead of disappearing, the number of mountain gorillas  a subspecies of eastern gorillas  has risen from 680 a decade ago to just over 1,000.

.Their population is split between two regions, including mist-covered defunct volcanoes within Congo, Uganda and Rwanda  one of Africas smallest and most densely populated countries.

The population of mountain gorillas is still vulnerable, George Schaller, a renowned biologist and gorilla expert, said. But their numbers are now growing, and thats remarkable.

Once depicted in legends and films like King Kong as fearsome beasts, gorillas are actually languid primates that eat only plants and insects, and live in fairly stable, extended family groups. Their strength and chest-thumping displays are generally reserved for contests between male rivals.
The book also describes how Harris is known for tormenting staffers with 'soul-destroying criticism' and openly dropping her favorite cuss word, 'motherf***er'

'Harris barely suppressed her impatience and disdain for the president despite reading platitudes from the teleprompter,' the author writes

Washington journalist Charlie Spiering lifts the lid on the ill-matched president and second-in-command, in Amateur Hour: Kamala Harris in the White House

As Kamala Harris hits the 2024 presidential campaign trail in hopes of securing a second term alongside Joe Biden, a new tell-all lifts the lid on the pair's now frosty relationship and how the president and First Lady Jill can't stand nor trust the VP, four years after their historic victory.

In his new book, Amateur Hour: Kamala Harris in the White House, published on Tuesday, veteran Washington journalist Charlie Spiering lifts the lid on the tension between the ill-matched pair, largely thanks to Harris's 'refusal to be a team player.'

Contending that America's historic first black female second in command is just 'a brain stroke away from the presidency,' he claims the 'real reason' Biden decided to run for a second term is because 'Kamala is not up to the job,' and the Bidens don't want to see her replace him.

A new book lifts the lid on Kamala Harris's 'disastrous and comical first years as vice president', as she and President Joe Biden gear up for a potential second term

According to the author, Harris has 'barely suppressed her impatience and disdain for the president despite reading platitudes from the teleprompter'

Her refusal to be a team player has also incurred the wrath of First Lady Jill Biden, the book claims

Biden's actual first choice for his running mate in 2020, was Gretchen Whitmer, 52, the then-recently elected governor of Michigan, while the first lady 'fought against choosing Harris in favor of Susan Rice,' a top Barack Obama confidante and national security adviser in his administration, according to the book.

But Obama, 'pushed Kamala', and Biden went along despite her embarrassing criticism of him as a virtual racist in the 2020 presidential debates when she, too, was briefly running for president.

Biden chose Kamala because he promised the nation he would choose a black woman as his running mate. Whitmer is white.

Obama, America's first black president, has been one of the perceived hidden powers behind Harris's amazing rise from virtual political obscurity in California to the White House.

In his very timely, forensic examination of Kamala's turbulent political and private life, Spiering explores what is not reported in the mainstream media: That one of the 'most popular games' among democrat powers in the so-called Swamp of the capital these days is 'How do you fix Kamala Harris?'

Amateur Hour: Kamala Harris in the White House is available on Tuesday January 23

A veteran White House journalist for Breitbart News who has covered the Biden, Obama and Trump administrations, the conservative Spiering asks in his highly critical and revelatory 281-page book, 'Who is the real Kamala Harris? And how did she ascend to the second-highest office in the country  despite her limited experience in national politics and confusing professional history?'

His answer?

'This book tells the story of the real Kamala Harris  the hilarious, incompetent, trailblazing radical,' and her 'disastrous and comical first years as vice president.'

He spells out her apparent failure at virtually every vice presidential assignment handed to her, including but not limited to the so-called post of Immigration Czar, and details why she has the lowest negative approval rating in polling history - even lower than Bidens.

According to Spiering, Democrats have abandoned the notion that Harris could take over for Biden in 2024 because 'she lacked' one of the most basic political skills  simply 'answering questionsher inability to communicate sparked a crisis-of-confidence in the Democratic Party.'

Her convoluted 'word salads,' and curious cackle coming at inappropriate times in public and before cameras have become infamous and humorous fodder for cable news shows, late night TV hosts, and print media.

As Spiering writes, 'her speeches lacked conviction and spiraled into word salads. Tough questions were answered with laughter and dismissal.

Biden's actual first choice for his running mate in 2020, was Gretchen Whitmer, 52, (pictured together in March 2020) the then-recently elected governor of Michigan, according to the book

President Barack Obama pushed Biden to select Harris as his running mate

Meanwhile, Jill 'fought against choosing Harris in favor of Susan Rice,' a top Barack Obama confidante and national security adviser in his administration

'Harris barely suppressed her impatience and disdain for the president despite reading platitudes from the teleprompter.'

The author writes that Kamala's 'many struggles and mistakes' have been 'top of mind' in the White House, including her noted 'thin skinned outrage, perceived grievances around every corner, the staff bullying and endless turnover'  describing the VP's office like a subway turnstile with unhappy staffers making constant exoduses  'the mockery, and the refusal to be a team player.'

In fact, thirteen staffers have found the exit.

Since taking office, Harris has developed the reputation for tormenting staffers with 'soul-destroying criticism' and openly dropping her favorite cuss word, 'motherf***er', around the office and in the Senate.

Spiering writes how such behavior came to light during Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court when Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his plans to retire in 2018.

'Harris was determined to make an impact, as she was still largely unknown outside California. It was her chance to make a bigger name for herself. Harris took a lot of swings but ended up striking out,' writes the author.

She made something of a name for herself in liberal and feminist circles by attacking Trump and viciously and infamously going after Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearings.

But when Kavanaugh's nomination moved forward, 'People in the room recalled Harris cursing and dropping f-bombs, ordering around Senate staffers who did not even work for her,' Spiering writes.

'Anyone who's staff, get the f**k out of here!' Harris yelled at staffers in the Senate anteroom after a particularly emotional moment during Senate hearings.'

Biden's choice of Harris as his running mate was 'one of the most pandering decisions of any vice-presidential pick in modern history,' writes Spiering, 'based almost entirely on her identity' as a black woman.

But Biden, the author states, needed the help of women of color, progressive activists and liberal voters to push him across the finish line.

Choosing Harris, Spiering observes, did the trick.

Harris made something of a name for herself in liberal and feminist circles by attacking Trump and viciously and infamously going after Kavanaugh during his confirmation hearings

Democratic Senator from New Jersey Cory Booker speaks with the then Democratic Senator of California Kamala Harris during voting as the Senate Judiciary Committee voted to advance to the Senate floor the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh in 2018

Members of the Supreme Court pose for a group photo at the Supreme Court. Seated from left: Associate Justice Samuel Alito, Associate Justice Clarence Thomas, Chief Justice John Roberts, Associate Justice Stephen Breyer and Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Standing from left: Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Associate Justice Elena Kagan, Associate Justice Neil Gorsuch and Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett

Meanwhile, his decision made for anger in the first family's private quarters. The old adage that a happy wife makes for a happy life was being bent by Biden's choice of Kamala.

First Lady Jill Biden's response to Joe's decision to name Harris to the ticket was 'go f**k yourself,' writes the author, after Harris shockingly accused Biden of racism in the televised debate when they were both running for the Democratic nomination for president, almost four years ago.

According to Spiering, Jill vented loudly about Harris's attack on her husband and considered it a punch to the gut. And the author says Jill's the one in the Biden family who holds grudges.

'Don't expect the Biden family to forget any transgressions. Joe forgives. I can forgive, sure  but I don't believe in rewarding bad behavior,' she warned in her 2019 memoir.

The book also references Jill's plan to visit Poland during her spring break from her teaching job at the local community college that became thwarted by Harris after she planned her own spring trip to the country to emphasize the impact of her own foreign policy presence.

The First Lady had to cancel her trip and then made an unannounced trip to Ukraine meeting with Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska on Mother's Day.

Spiering accuses Kamala of refusing to play dutiful backup to the president and, instead, is 'trying to write her own political narrative, according to her rules.'

And he makes clear that she's 'in no position to take over for Biden and lead the Democratic Party into the future.'

At the same time, the author feels there's 'no way' the Biden team can 'replace her on the ticket in 2024' because that would be 'admitting a huge mistake.'

Born on October 20, 1964, Kamala's the daughter of parents who were members of a 'radical intellectual group' that 'admired and promoted' black nationalism and communism.

In San Francisco, she developed what's been described as an intimate relationship with the city's black power broker and mayor, Willie Brown, and how Brown 'plucked Harris out of obscurity into a dating relationship where they traded favors for more power, money and influence.'

Spiering accuses Kamala of refusing to play dutiful backup to the president and, instead, is 'trying to write her own political narrative, according to her rules'

Biden's choice of Harris as his running mate was 'one of the most pandering decisions of any vice-presidential pick in modern history,' writes Spiering

Kamala followed Willie's advice  joining museum boards, the SF bar association, and attended parties and fundraisers with the married mayor dubbed 'Slick Willie.'

She cozied up to East Coast elites, broadening her fundraising chops as well as political appeal and was described as the 'female Obama'. She bragged about having Obama's cell phone number in her phone book and he attended a fundraiser on her behalf that charged $6500 per person.

Obama helped her climb on Maxim Magazine's top Hot 100 Women in 2014. When she broke up with Willie in 1996, she moved on to TV talk show host Montel Williams.

In San Francisco, the radical Kamala 'ran to the right of a liberal progressive prosecutor,' ousted him but was highly criticized for her refusal to seek the death penalty for a cop killer.

She then set her sights on the presidency, but what became a disastrous campaign, with little public and party support.

With the 2024 campaign underway, with Donald Trump far ahead of his competitors in the polls, and with Biden lying low like he did in his first presidential campaign, Kamala appears to be taking on what ABC News recently claimed was 'an expanded role in galvanizing Democratic voters.'

To the network's White House correspondent Mary Bruce, Kamala showed confidence and bluster about a recent swing in South Carolina, declaring, 'You saw every room we went in. The numbers of people who are there, applauding quite loudly, and they're applauding for me and they're applauding for Joe Biden and for what we as an administration have accomplished.'

Meanwhile, the liberal New York Times declared that Kamala was 'trying to reclaim the momentum that propelled her' to the vice presidency.

But Charlie Spiering who has probed Kamala Harris's rise and fall and rise for the first time in his new book, writes that she 'is still in the same place despite multiple attempts at narrative resets and on-the-job training.'

'Once you are found unworthy, there is little you can do to change people's minds.

'Mistakes compounded on mistakes only cemented her reputation and there is little room for sympathy when you reach that level of power. There's plenty of negative chatter behind the scenes, but few dare speak publicly, for fear of being branded a racist or sexist.'
The judge overseeing rape accuser E. Jean Carroll's defamation case against Donald Trump cancelled a scheduled court hearing Monday after a juror got sick and Trump lawyer Alina Habba got exposed to COVID-19.

The trial was thrown into chaos after the former president flew in from New Hampshire to attend the trial, with his lawyer indicating he intended to testify.

That would have represented a dramatic development after he declined to testify in his defense for a prior legal battle with Carroll, who accuses Trump of raping her in a Manhattan department store decades ago.

But it was all thrown off schedule after Juror no. 3 reported feeling hot and nauseous on the way into court and was told to stay away.

Lawyer Alina Habba, who is representing Trump in the case and who has been a fierce defender on TV, then revealed she had a fever after spending time with her parents, who both later turned out to have contracted the coronavirus.

Lawyer Alina Habba, who is representing Trump in the case and who has been a fierce defender on TV, then revealed she had a fever after spending time with her parents, who both later turned out to have contracted the coronavirus

Donald Trump heads to court in Manhattan where he could testify against E. Jean Carroll in the sex abuse defamation trial

In court Habba did not wear a mask and Trump, 77, who went through a battle with Covid while he was President, leaned in close to her face to talk to her.

She said that she had exhibited fever in the last 48 hours and that she spent a few hours with her parents three days earlier, although she herself had tested negative for Covid.

Habba apologized to the court that she was still in child mode as she had been having issues with her nanny.

Trump was flanked by Habba and another lawyer, Michael Madaio, who also was exposed, but who like Habba reported testing negative for COVID-19.

Habba said that Trump, who whispered in her ear seconds before, had reminded her that tomorrow is the primary in New Hampshire.

Habba said that Trump planned to testify in court and had flown to New York to do so. She asked that the case be adjourned until Wednesday.

Roberta Kaplan, an attorney for Carroll, said that she wanted to continue as planned but Judge Kaplan sent the jury home for the day. Trump's team registered its opposition to proceeding with eight of the nine jurors present.

The judge said to Habba that Im not going to decide right now whether Trumps testimony could be put off until Wednesday, but raised the possibility that the trial could be scheduled at his convenience.

'Circumstances may result in your getting what you ask for or maybe not,' he said.

The sudden turn of events came after Trump headed to a Manhattan courthouse amid speculation that he might testify against his rape accuser E. Jean Carroll in the sex abuse defamation trial.

Donald Trump lawyer Alina Habba said in court she had been exposed to the coronavirus at a dinner with her parents. The judge cancelled court after a juror reported feeling ill

Habba appeared with Trump in court January 11. She said three days ago she had dinner with her parents who were later diagnosed with COVD-19. She said in court while seated next to Trump that she said that she had exhibited fever in the last 48 hours

Presiding Judge Lewis Kaplan postponed the trial after a juror felt ill and Trump lawyer Alina Habba (standing next to Trump) reported having a fever and dining with her parents three days ago before they were diagnosed with covid

Judge Lewis Kaplan left open the possibility of postponing court until after the New Hampshire primary

Trump fumed about the proceedings online

Habba acknowledged having had a fever in the last 48 hours.



Minutes after the judge cancelled court and told the courtroom that 'we will take the day off,' Trump began attacking his accuser online.

He also issued a long post about the postponment.

'I traveled late last night from the Great State of New Hampshire to New York to attend one of the many Crooked Joe Biden-inspired Witch Hunt trials,' he began. 'Despite the fact that I was there, on time and on schedule, it was just learned that one of the jurors is, unfortunately, not feeling well, and for that reason, todays session of the trial, having to do with a woman I know absolutely nothing about, has therefore been cancelled with a new date to be determined.' Trump didn't mention that his own lawyers had also reported exposure to COVID-19.

The former president left Trump Tower and headed downtown just hours after flying in from a New Hampshire rally just 24 hours before Tuesday's Republican primary, where he spoke against the case and publicly went after his accuser.

He walked out of Trump Tower on Monday morning with a closed fist, days after he showed off red marks that turned out to be papercuts.

The frontrunner in the GOP race has been in and out of court during the dramatic trial where the judge has threatened to remove him for complaining too loudly.

His lawyer Alina Habba has also been involved in tense exchanges over her motions to dismiss the case and delay the trial so Trump could go to his mother-in-law's funeral.

Trump attended the service on Thursday while Carroll testified and the case went on without him.

Because a different jury found last year that Trump sexually abused Carroll, U.S. District Judge Judge Lewis A. Kaplan has ruled that if the former president takes the stand now, he won't be allowed to say she concocted her allegation or that she was motivated by financial or political considerations.

Trump raised the possibility he might testify, speaking about the case at a Sunday night rally in New Hampshire.

'They are weaponizing law enforcement at a level like never before, and it's all high-level election interference,' he said. 'You know where Im going to be? I dont have to be there, but I want to be there, because otherwise I cant get a fair shake. Im going to be in court.'

His comments drew jeers from a rally crowd.

'I could use your prayers,' he said when an audience member yelled out.

'A totally fabricated story. It's all fabricated,' he said. "I have like eight of them. Civil cases. All kinds of cases ... this is equal opportunity. We have every kind of case you can have. We have all kinds of cases.

Without the opportunity to testify under oath, which many legal experts doubted Trump would actually seize, the former president took to his Truth Social site to attack his accuser.

'E. Jean Carroll was forced to change her story on the Monica Lewinsky-type dress. She originally claimed that the event happened in 1994, and that she wore the Donna Karan dress on that day. The problem is that New York Times Fact Checkers found the dress wasnt even made by Donna Karan until long after 1994. The truth is that she doesnt know the day, month, season, year, or decade - because it did not happen. End this Witch Hunt now!' Trump wrote.

He also reposted years-old tweets posted by Carroll, a writer and former advice columnist, that referenced sex. Then, after a series of posts about his accuser, Trump reposted former first lady Melania Trump's post about her late mother.

'We love you Babi, and miss you!' Trump wrote.

Even while just watching the proceedings, the voluble ex-president and current Republican front-runner hasn't checked his contempt for the case.

Writing on her Civil Discourse blog, former prosecutor Joyce Vance wrote that a Trump testifying can only end badly as the trial is to see who much in damages he must pay Carroll.

While Carroll (pictured) testified last week, Trump complained to his lawyers about a 'witch hunt' and a 'con job' loudly enough so that the judge threatened to throw Trump out of the courtroom if he kept it up

Trump had to travel by protesters at the courthouse

Another jury found Trump committed sexual abuse but did not reach a finding of rape

'The smart money says there's no way that his lawyers would expose him to cross-examination at the hands of Carroll's highly competent legal team,' she wrote.

'Only the amount of damages is in question, and that's not a topic Trump's testimony is particularly helpful with; he can only make it worse. Those damages probably go higher if Trump takes the stand and acts in his predictable fashion,' Vance added.

While Carroll testified last week, he complained to his lawyers about a 'witch hunt' and a 'con job' loudly enough so that the judge threatened to throw Trump out of the courtroom if he kept it up.

Trump piped down and stayed in court, then held a news conference where he deplored the 'nasty judge.'

'Its a disgrace, frankly, whats happening,' Trump told reporters, repeating his claim that Carroll's allegation was 'a made-up, fabricated story.'

Besides tangling with Kaplan, Trump bucked the New York state judge in his recent civil business fraud trial involving claims that he inflated his wealth.

Trump waves to his supporters as he walks out of his midtown Manhattan property on Monday morning to head to his motorcade

Trump headed to court in Manhattan on the day before the New Hampshire primary

Trump was greeted by protesters amid speculation about whether he would take the stand

The former president, 77, left Trump Tower and headed downtown just hours after flying in from a New Hampshire rally just 24 hours before Tuesday's Republican primary

Trump, who denies any wrongdoing, delivered a brief closing argument of sorts without committing to rules for summations and assailed the judge from the witness stand.

He also was fined a total of $15,000 for what the judge deemed violations of a gag order concerning comments about court staffers. Trump's attorneys are appealing the order.

In Carroll's case, her lawyers have implored the judge to make Trump swear, before any testimony, that he understands and accepts the courts restrictions on what he can say.

'There are any number of reasons why Mr. Trump might perceive a personal or political benefit from intentionally turning this trial into a circus,' attorney Roberta Kaplan wrote in a letter to the judge, who is no relation.

His return to a courtroom once again comes at a high-point on the political calendar. Trump faces former UN Ambassasdor Nikki Haley in Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, which may be her best shot to try to seize momentum after he romped over GOP rivals in Iowa.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dramatically dropped out of the race Sunday. He has previously said Trump's four criminal indictments and the cases against him fueled Trump through the primaries and denied 'oxygen' to other candidates.
Multiple American soldiers are being evaluated for potential brain injuries following a missile barrage in Iraq on Saturday night.

US Central Command officials said Iran-backed militants launched several ballistic missiles and rockets at al-Asad Airbase at around 6.30pm Iraq time as tensions continue to bubble in the region.

It came as separate missile attacks on Saturday in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen threw into sharp focus the increasing risk of the war in Gaza triggering a wider regional conflict pitting Iran and its allies against Israel and the United States.

The missiles which struck al-Asad base were deployed inside Iraq, and most were intercepted by the base's air defense systems - but some hit the target.

US soldiers have come under fire at least 58 times in Iraq and 83 times in Syria by Iran-backed militants, usually with a mix of rockets and one-way attack drones

Multiple American soldiers are being evaluated for potential brain injuries following a missile barrage on al-Asad Airbase (pictured) in western Iraq on Saturday night

A spokesperson for US Central Command, which is part of the US Department of Defense, said: '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 statement did not say how many US soldiers were impacted and what the extent of their injuries were.

On the same day, Iran said five of its Revolutionary Guards were killed in a missile strike on a house in Damascus for which it blamed Israel, and security sources in Lebanon said an Israeli strike there killed a member of Hezbollah.

The United States also said it had targeted and destroyed another missile the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen was aiming into the Red Sea on Saturday, which it called a threat to shipping.

Tensions in the Middle East have surged since the Israel-Palestine war began in October, when Hamas fighters stormed border defenses to attack Israeli bases and towns, killing more than 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages.

Hamas is part of Iran's 'Axis of Resistance', a regional alliance that also includes Lebanon's Hezbollah, the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad, Shi'ite militia groups in Iraq and the Houthis who control much of Yemen.

Israel's intense bombardment of Gaza since Oct. 7, which health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave say has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, quickly triggered border clashes between Israel and Hezbollah.

US soldiers have come under fire at least 58 times in Iraq and 83 times in Syria by Iran-backed militants, usually with a mix of rockets and one-way attack drones.

The militants are seeking to impose a cost on the US for its support of Israel against Hamas, which is supported by Iran.

Several US troops suffered minor injuries in the attack, and they were evaluation for potential brain damage, a spokesperson for the US Central Command said

Ain al-Asad air base is seen above in 2020. The so-called 'Islamic Resistance in Iraq', an umbrella group for Iranian-backed proxy militia forces, claimed responsibility for the attack

The US has 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq on a mission to advise and assist local forces trying to prevent the resurgence of Islamic State, which seized large parts of both countries before being defeated.

Meanwhile, Iraq is concerned about becoming a battleground between the United States, Israel and Iran.

Iraq's Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's office announced moves to evict US forces following an American drone strike in Baghdad.

The attack was condemned by Iraq's government, while the Pentagon said it killed a militia leader responsible for recent attacks on US personnel.

The Pentagon said it has not been formally notified of any plans to end the US troop presence in the country, adding that US soldiers are deployed there at the invitation of the government in Baghdad.

On Monday, Iran fired missiles at what it claimed were Israeli 'spy headquarters' near the US consulate in the northern Iraqi city of Erbil.

Four civilians were killed and six injured after missiles hit the upscale area, which is the epicenter of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdish region, according to the security council of the Kurdish regional government.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said in a statement that it had hit a headquarters of Mossad, the Israeli intelligence agency, in the Kurdish region of Iraq.

Another statement said it also fired a number of ballistic missiles at 'terrorist operations,' including Islamic State targets, in Syria and destroyed them.
Police are on the hunt for a Cornish 'blade runner' who hacked down a speed camera in the middle of the night - in a raid reminiscent of the damage inflicted on the Ulez cameras in the capital.

It is one of the latest acts in a wave of vandalism to sweep the UK, with Sadiq Khan's ULEZ scheme being targeted and the Met reporting traffic lights and cameras being damaged in the capital.

This latest incident, which is believed to have occurred on November 30 on the A390 at Drakewalls, Gunnislake, saw a maintenance panel ripped off and wires inside sliced through.

CCTV footage shows a man in a white jacket walking down the street with his hands in his pockets and his hood up. He appears to have glasses on.

The attack was the fourth in a series of incidents which happened across Cornwall in November.

Police on the hunt for a Cornish 'blade runner' who hacked down a speed camera in the middle of the night have released CCTV footage in the wake of the attack

It is believed the incident on the A390 at Drakewalls, Cornwall happened on the morning of Thursday, November 30

The vandalism shows a maintenance panel ripped off and wires inside sliced through

Speed cameras in Longdowns, near Falmouth and Penryn on the A394 road to Helston, and on the A394 at Trewennack had previously been hacked down.

A few weeks prior to those incidents on the A39 at Perranarworthal between Truro and Falmouth.

READ MORE - Shocking moment masked gang cut down new speed camera with an angle grinder before fleeing on their quad bike - on yet another day in Wild West Britain Advertisement

Now police have released footage of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident at Drakewalls.

The CCTV footage shows a man pictured in who they believe he may be able to assist with their enquiries.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: 'Police received reports of criminal damage to a road safety camera.

'Officers investigating the incident would like to identify the man pictured in the footage as they believe he may be able to assist with their enquiries.

'Call police with information on 101, or via our website here, quoting reference number 50230314254.

'Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.'

These attacks are similar to those on the Ulez cameras when Sadiq Khan expanded the scheme to cover the whole of Greater London - which were stolen or damaged 1,000 times in seven months.

There have been a spate of camera attacks in the county causing division between those in favour of the devices and those who see them as a cash cow.

Pictured: The aftermath of vandalism which saw two 30mph speed cameras in Cornwall chopped down in November

Anti-ULEZ campaigners, known as the Blade Runners, claim to have disconnected or destroyed at least 500 of the 2,700 cameras

The attacks on speed cameras echo those on Ulez cameras and vans in protest

Cornwall Councillor Peter Williams, who represents Perranarworthal, previously said: 'It is absolutely horrendous why people go and do these things under the noses of where people live.

'These cameras were not put there on a whim - they were put there after years of gathering evidence and proof.

'I don't understand why these people can't see the cameras are there to protect everyone, including drivers.'

He added the cameras would be reinstated as soon as possible.

Ruth Gripper, who will challenge for the Truro and Falmouth seat for the Liberal Democrats at the next general election, added: 'This is really disappointing and an affront to the local community.

'Speed cameras don't just get put in willy nilly.

'Speeding is dangerous and makes life a misery for local residents.

'Cameras are only installed as a last resort after a lot of work by residents and monitoring by the council - it took the community in Perranarworthal six years of consistent effort to get cameras installed.

'Cutting speed cameras down like this is a totally futile gesture that costs the taxpayer thousands of pounds.

'It is deeply worrying that an individual or individuals feel able to take the law into their own hands in this way and I hope the police will find those responsible.

'I encourage anyone with information about this or previous incidents to contact the police as soon as possible.'

The attacks on speed cameras echo those on Ulez cameras and vans in protest.

Opponents to the Ulez - who call themselves 'Blade Runners' - slash the van's tyres, spray paint cameras and smash windows.

ULEZ attack in Chislehurst, London in the latest spree of attacks

Footage seen by MailOnline, has shown the moment one group used a tipper truck with 'ULEZ Camera' to block the van in London.

Activists, one dressed as a dinosaur and another wearing a dog costume, then mock ULEZ officials, who are speaking to two officers from the Metropolitan Police.

'You've got us for company and we're very nice, we keep you company, don't we,' one ULEZ protester cheekily says to the two men in charge of the enforcement van.

The woman then turns to the pair of female police officers as they walk away from the scene, and says: 'Peaceful protest is allowed in this country.'

'Yes, yes,' one officer replies before they get in their car and drive off, leaving the activists to continue with their bizarre protest.

Later, the person in the inflatable dinosaur suit is seen waddling towards to two men, as another activist holds a sign saying 'ULEZ scam' in front of the van's ANPR camera.
Four people have miraculously survived a plane crash in remote Afghanistan that left a Russian millionaire and his wife dead.

The Falcon 10 air ambulance got into trouble on a medical emergency flight to bring a seriously ill Russian tourist - the millionaire's wife - home from Thailand.

But the woman and her husband both tragically died in the crash in the mountainous Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan. One theory is the Russian-registered aircraft was low on fuel, and that it struggled against strong headwinds.

It was first reported that all those on board were feared dead. However, against the odds, the two pilots and two medics survived - despite a failure of both engines.

The first pictures have now emerged of the shell-shocked survivors. They are understood to have trekked from the plane's wreckage to a mountain village.

Four people have miraculously survived a plane crash in remote Afghanistan that left a Russian millionaire and his wife dead. Pictured: Three of the survivors are seen in footage released on social media. One of the survivors is understood to have trekked to a nearby mountain village

A still grab from poor quality footage shows the mangled wreckage of the executive jet in the snow of Afghanistan's northeastern mountain region

The youngest of the four survivors - believed to be paramedic Igor Syvorotkin, 26 - trekked to the nearest Afghan village, named Pedu, in fierce cold.

He is reported to have used sign language to summon help.

Three of the stunned survivors were seen today in a picture, and poor quality footage shows the mangled wreckage of the executive jet in the snow.

The millionaire couple who died were Russian entrepreneur Anatoly Evsyukov and his 59-year-old wife Anna Evsyukova, who lived in Russia's Rostov region, close to the war zone in Ukraine.

She was being flown to Moscow after she became seriously ill on a long winter vacation in Thailand.

The family made the decision to use a medical evacuation flight so she could be treated in Moscow, but the plane came down as it was flying over Afghanistan.

The Russian embassy in Kabul confirmed today that the bodies of Evsyukov and his wife were found on board the stricken plane's wreck.

The pilots, who somehow survived bringing the plane down in the snow-covered mountains, were identified as Dmitry Belyakov and Arkady Grachev.

The plane glided for up to 25 minutes after losing power, said Russia's Shot media, revealing new details of the remarkable crash landing.

'Before the tragedy, the pilots raised the nose of the plane by 1520 degrees to at least slightly soften the blow,' said the report. 'If they had not done this, the plane would have crashed nose-first into the ground, killing everyone on board.

'Dense snow that fell in the mountains could also have played a role.

'Yet, because of the tilt 'the impact fell on the middle of the plane's fuselage and the passenger compartment'.

Grachev is the ex-husband of Ekaterina Agapova, the woman who headed the company - ATLETIK-GRUPP LLC - which was responsible for the evacuation service.

The hero pilots who somehow brought the plane down in the snow-covered mountains were identified as Dmitry Belyakov (pictured) and Arkady Grachev

Medic Pavel Popov, one of the crash survivors, is seen in this picture from social media

Pictures show the couple - who have a son - when they were married.

After the crash she said: 'Nothing is known yet, now I'm trying to understand the situation and understand what happened. There is no confirmed data yet.'

The father of pilot Arkady Grachev told how he had gone to pray in church fearing the worst for his son after hearing about the air crash.

'We all buried him,' said Yuri Grachev, a former colonel in the Russian missile forces. 'We went to church.

'At the end of the service, a message came that four survived. This is fantastic.'

The father called his son a hero for landing the plane in extremely difficult conditions. His feat 'will go down in aviation history', he said.

Reports in Moscow say she has since gone to ground.

The two surviving paramedics were named as Igor Syvorotkin and Pavel Popov.

Reports say the survivors suffered minor but not major wounds.

A Russian helicopter was today flying to a village near the crash site to take the men to the capital of Kabul for medical checks, before an onward flight to Moscow.

Argumenty i Fakty new outlet in Russia said today: 'Ekaterina and Arkady divorced, but they still had a plane which, media report, was manufactured in 1978 and lately was on its last breath.

'Nevertheless, the ex-spouses continued to use it, which led to the tragedy.'

Izvestia newspaper reported that the pilots may not have been qualified to fly the aircraft with passengers.

'Izvestia's source reported that the flight was announced as an empty flight without passengers or cargo,' it said.

'Pilots Dmitry Belyakov and Arkady Grachev of the Falcon 10 aircraft had minimal experience in flying this aircraft.

'They completed training only in 2023.

'The pilots had private pilot certificates, but with such a certificate they could not fly an aircraft operating a commercial flight.'

The millionaire couple who died were Russian entrepreneur Anatoly Evsyukov (pictured) and his 59-year-old wife Anna Evsyukova, who lived in Russia's Rostov region

Anatoly Evsyukov, pictured, was being flown to Moscow after she became seriously ill on a long winter vacation in Thailand

Syvorotkin's mother said: 'We know he is alive, he called us.'

The business jet with tail number RA-09011 had flown out from Russia to pick up the sickly woman.

A video shows it leaving Russia en route to Thailand.

On the return, it flew from U-Tapao, near Pattaya in Thailand, where the woman had been hospitalised for several weeks after becoming ill with a mystery sickness.

It then refuelled in Gaya, India.

It was due to make another refuelling stop in Tashkent, Uzbekistan before flying to Zhukovsky airport in Moscow.

However, reports say it got into trouble over Afghanistan and at 7.05pm local time on Saturday and sought to land in Tajikistan on an unscheduled stop.

One engine failed at 7.19pm, and the other ten minutes later, and the plane disappeared from radar at about 7.30pm local time, 35 miles from Kulob airport in Tajikistan.

The crash is the first since Russian planes were subject to sanctions of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

This has caused multiple emergency landings and air incidents due to lack of spare parts and maintenance involving Western suppliers.

However, it is unclear that 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.

The passengers and crew were flying on a Falcon 10 private jet, RA-09011 (pictured)

The son of the dead couple Vitali Evsyukov, 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.

Anatoly Evsyukov was earlier decorated by Vladimir Putin's regional governor for 'valiant' work building the economy in Rostov region.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the downed Russian plane was found in the Kuf Ab district of Badakhshan.

He said the main pilot and three others had survived.
New images have revealed the unkept small Brazilian apartment where the alleged killer of a New York City art gallery owner abandoned his bloody clothes.

Alejandro Triana, 30, allegedly stabbed Brent Sikkema, 75, in the chest and face at least 18 times at his Rio de Janeiro townhouse before he returned to his home in Sao Paulo on January 14.

The Cuban national allegedly changed into a new set of clothes, leaving behind his blood-splattered t-shirt and cap, the Fantastico magazine reports.

Footage showed Triana also visiting the home of a friend and returning the vehicle he used to travel from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro to allegedly kill Sikkema, who co-owned the art gallery Sikkema Jenkins & Co in Manhattan.

Triana was arrested Thursday after police found him sleeping in a new car at a gas station in Ureaba, a city in the southern state of Minas Gerais, which borders Bolivia.

The alleged killer was interrogated by police on Saturday and denied killing Sikkema.

Alejandro Triana was arrested Thursday in Minas Gerais, Brazil for the alleged murder of Manhattan art gallery owner Brent Sikkema. Triana was interrogated by police in Rio de Janeiro and said that he was not involved although cameras showed him entering and leaving the 75-year-old victim's home on January 14

New York City art gallery owner Brent Sikkema (right) with his husband Daniel Sikkema (left) and the couple's son

Sao Paulo police recovered the blood-stained t-shirt that Alejandro Triana left behind at his home after allegedly stabbing dead Brent Sikkema, the New York City art gallery owner, at his Rio de Janeiro home on January 14

A cap stained with blood was left behind by Alejandro Triana at his home in Sao Paulo

Police learned that Triana and Sikkema met in Cuba, where he owned two residences. Triana was employed by Sikkema and his husband, Daniel Sikkema, who is also Cuban, to work as a handyman at their homes.

Triana migrated to Brazil in 2022 and met with Brent Sikkema on twice, in July and December of 2023, in Rio de Janeiro.

A friend of the suspect, who spoke to Fantastico under the condition of anonymity, said he first met Triana through his mother, whom he knew since 2013 when she traveled to Brazil for her post doctorate work.

'The his mother died. She became very ill with cancer. The he came in 2022, he came alone right?' the man recalled. 'He arrived like that, disoriented.'

He found him a place to stay at his mother's home, but Triana went a while without paying rent because he was not employed. Triana would eventually find work teaching Spanish courses and making deliveries.

Brent Sikkema, who co-owned the contemporary art gallery Sikkema Jenkins & Co. in New York told friends in Brazil was attempting to finalize a divorce with his husband Daniel Sikkema

Triana told his friend's mother that he was going to travel to Rio de Janeiro for work.

However, footage obtained by DailyMail.com from Gabriel Security Company showed that the suspect began monitoring Sikkema's home in the Rio de Janeiro neighborhood of Jardim Botanico on January 13 around 2:30 pm and finally walked into the residence on January 14 at 3:43am.

He could be seen exiting the home at 3:47am and removing clothes before he drove away.

Simone Nunes, a lawyer and friend of Sikkema, who watched after the property while he was away from the country, discovered him dead January 15 after visiting the home because she was concerned he was not answering her phone calls and text messages.

Alejandro Triana (pictured) was arrested Thursday by police in Brazil in connection with the murder of New York City art gallery owner Brent Sikkema. Investigators said he was attempting to flee to Bolivia when they spotted him sleeping in a car at a gas station in the state of Minas Gerais

Sikkema, according to Nunes, had traveled to Brazil with $50,000 to spend on furniture for a second home he had purchased in the Rio de Janeiro.

Triana, investigators learned, stole $30,000 as well as 30,000 Brazilian reals ($6,078) and jewelry during the robbery.

However, Police were only able to recover $3,000 when they arrested him.

'The victim was a person with very good relationships and loved by everyone. They are unaware of any type of enmity that the victim could maintain here in Rio or Janeiro or even outside the country,' Nunes said.

'So, this is yet another motivator that leads us to believe that the crime was in fact motivated by financial reasons, right?,' she continued. 'Focused there on Alejandro's interest in stealing the assets that he knew the victim kept.'
A manhunt is underway in Istanbul today after a knifeman launched a stabbing spree attacking his victims at random in the street.

The suspect, who has not been name, prowled the streets of Esenyurt, east of Istanbul, and picked off his victims one by one.

At least 11 people including one girl have been injured in the rampage so far, with the knifeman still at large.

Chilling security camera footage shows the attacker wandering the streets while brandishing a knife before randomly stabbing passersby in broad daylight.

In one horrifying clip, the knifeman can be seen walking past a shop before stopping suddenly and turning around to stab one of his victims. He can be seen running down a road as terrified locals try to chase after him.

The suspect, who has not been name, has been prowling the streets of Esenyurt, east of Istanbul, and picking off his victims one by one

Chilling footage shows the attacker wandering the streets while brandishing a knife before randomly stabbing passersby on the street in broad daylight

One of the victims, Mehmut Ustel, told Milliyet: 'While I was walking, a person came in front of me. He took out a knife and a bread knife. It seemed like he was joking when I first saw it.

'He put it in my leg and walked away. I immediately fell to the ground. He is someone I have never met in my life.'

He said the knifeman launched his attack at 10am and has been able to escape capture for hours, with Ustel saying he was stabbed at 1.30pm local time.

Hasan Karaca said her daughter Cigdem was stabbed by the knifeman and left with injuries to her leg.

Karaca said: 'He stabs my child and tries to pull her bag. The shopkeepers there intervened and saved my child.'

At least 11 victims have been rushed to the nearby Esenyurt Necmi Kadoglu State hospital following the attack, with medics saying their injuries are not life-threatening.

Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who they have managed to identify by examining the security cameras in the area.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow...
A terror boss who wanted to bomb the London Stock Exchange and was a close ally of jihadi Usman Khan could be freed in weeks.

Parole Board bosses are assessing a dossier on Mohammed Shahjahan and could soon release him.

The fanatic was jailed alongside London Bridge attacker Khan in 2012 for an al-Qaeda inspired gun and bomb plot against the capital's financial district.

Shahjahan, originally from Stoke-on-Trent, was released in 2019 but recalled to prison for breaching licence conditions. Khan was also released for the 2012 plot but went on to commit the London Bridge atrocity in 2019. Shahjahan, was refused Parole last January.

Jihadist Mohammed Shahjahan (pictured) set out his vision for the UK as part of a BBC documentary in 2010

Usman Khan (pictured) who was imprisoned for six years for terrorism offenses before his release and stabbed several people in London in 2019, before he was shot dead by officers on London Bridge

Terrorists L-R: Mohibur Raham, Gurukanth Desai, Abdul Miah, Usman Khan, Mohammed Chowdhury, Mohammed Shahjahan in Roath Park

But now the Parole Board has told Mail Online his case is at an initial assessment stage. This means a dossier will be read on him, and then he will either be released without a Parole Board hearing, or one will be directed, likely in the coming months, or he could be refused a hearing and remain in prison.

Sources fear as he was refused a year ago it may be considered his behaviour has improved enough to be back on the streets. He will be subject to strict conditions if he was to be freed.

A prison psychologist ruled last year he had a 'tendency to overlook the consequences of his actions'.

He plotted the atrocity with Khan and was jailed alongside him. On his release, Khan launched an attack in 2019, when he stabbed and killed two prison rehabilitation workers at an event at Fishmongers' Hall. Armed cops then shot him dead.

Another terrorist, Nazam Hussain, 38, was jailed alongside them. He was due to be released.

All three admitted engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terror and were jailed. All three had been watched by MI5 before their planned attack.

The prosecution said plotters had discussed attacking the London Stock Exchange, pubs in Stoke and, separately, setting up a jihadist training camp in Pakistan.

A source said: 'There are fears they may well direct his immediate release based on the fact he was considered a year ago. It depends on his behaviour.'

Tory MP Nigel Mills said: 'I sincerely hope he is not released.

'Usman Khan was and he went on to commit a horrific terrorist attack.

'This is clearly a man who is one of the most dangerous people in the country.'
This is the dramatic moment a coastguard helicopter crew rescued three dog walkers and their pets during Storm Isha.

The emergency services were called by the party after they found themselves stranded on a beach on Britain's Jurassic Coast.

The women, aged in their late teens, 30s and 40s, set off from Lyme Regis to Charmouth in Dorset in deteriorating weather conditions.

The oldest member of the group injured her leg when she was blown over by the strong winds.

She was unable to move and the other women got cut off on the rocks at Black Ven and were sinking into mud as the tide rapidly came in.

The emergency services were called by the party after they found themselves stranded on a beach on Britain's Jurassic Coast

They called 999 and Lyme Regis coastguard, West Bay coastguard, Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat and the coastguard helicopter from St Athan in Glamorgan were dispatched to the scene.

The ferocious sea conditions meant it was too risky for the lifeboat to get to them and so it was decided to winch them off the beach one by one.

The helicopter crew had to contend with the 60mph winds to hover for 30 minutes above the beach to carry out the rescue.

The injured woman was put on a stretcher and hoisted into the helicopter first, followed by her two friends and the three dogs.

The incident took place at 1.30pm yesterday.

The women were flown to the car park at Charmouth where they were passed into the care of South Western Ambulance Service.

Eye-witness Rich Lisney said: 'From a safe vantage point I watched the coastguard helicopter winching a member of the public onboard and during the next 30 minutes, another two people.

'It was terrifying to watch as Storm Isha winds were gusting to 50mph or more.

'I was in awe of how stable the helicopter kept its position throughout the rescue and have a great deal of respect for the brave coastguard service who are tasked with saving lives in all weathers.'

But other members of the public criticised the dog walkers for heading out in the middle of the storm.

Jackie Horsley said: 'Crazy being anywhere near the beach.

'The storm was forecast so why endanger the lives of the coastguards?'

The helicopter crew had to contend with the 60mph winds to hover for 30 minutes above the beach to carry out the rescue

Helen Craton said: 'Why do people put others at risk.'

Alison Ward added: 'They (the rescuers are) definitely heroes. The wind became so fierce so quickly, it was frightening.'

A Lyme Regis coastguard spokesperson said: 'The women were walking from Lyme Regis to Charmouth and they got caught out by the tide and extreme weather.

'The older lady had fallen and had a lower leg injury so she was unable to move.

'With Storm Isha coming in and the fading light it was a race against time.

'The conditions made the rescue trickier with the high winds throwing everyone about.

'The injured woman was lifted in a stretcher and the whole group and their dogs were winched to safety.

'There was an Amber weather warning and there was no way they would have got back with the tide coming in like that.

'I think people underestimate how quickly the tide comes in when you've got high winds.'
Jewish students who returned anxiously to Harvard for the spring semester last night were met with yet more vile antisemitism plastered all over posters of Hamas hostages.

The posters were vandalized with vile remarks, comparing some of the victims to pedophile Jeffrey Epstein and blaming 'Israel' for 9/11.

In one sick jibe, thugs wrote 'evidence, head still one' on a photo of ten-month-old Kfir Bibas, the youngest hostage taken, who remains separated from his family more than 100 days later.

A defaced poster of Hamas hostage Kfir Bibas remains in the center of Harvard Yard today as students return to classes

Others were defaced with conspiracy claims about Israel being responsible for 9/11

A poster of hostage Romi Gonen is defaced with the sarcastic pop culture slur, 'sure, Jan', commonly used to cast doubt on far fetched claims

Gad Haggai, who was murdered on October 7th, is seen in this poster defaced by pro-Palestine students

Another poster, featuring Haggai's wife Judith, was also defaced

The slur is in reference to the disputed claims that Hamas beheaded babies during the October 7 massacre.

Harvard is yet to comment on the posters.

Student Shabbos Kestenbaum - who is suing the school for a tuition refund - said it's further proof that Jewish students are not safe at the school.

'The night before Harvard begins a new semester, every single Jewish hostage poster on campus has been defaced with vile antisemitism.

'Jews are neither safe nor welcomed at Harvard.'

He previously told DailyMail.com how his parents had begged him not to return to the campus.

'Theres a tremendous amount of tension, nerves, anxiety I am home just now for the break and my parents dont want me to go back to campus.

The Harvard 'H' is turned into 'Hamas' in a sign in the center of Harvard Yard on Monday, January 22

A sign in the center of Harvard Yard bears both the defaced posters and a call for the hostages to be released

Kestenbaum said he was horrified by Gay's congressional testimony. 'We had no reason to doubt her leadership abilities then literally almost overnight October 7th to 8th, there was a total abdication of moral responsibility,' he said

'Theyre afraid for my physical safety... I wouldn't be surprised in the slightest if there are physical attacks on Jewish students when we go back.

'We have no reason to believe the spring semester will be any better, and actually a lot of reason to believe that there will be increased and intensified acts of antisemitism given the accelerated antisemitic posts on social media,' he said on January 13.

Tensions had bubbled on campus in December, after Claudine Gay's disastrous testimony before Congress.

When she stepped down, classes were out for the winter break.

How the school's new president, Alan Garber, will respond to the issue remains to be seen.

Since Claudine Gay resigned, Kestenbaum says this type of antisemitism on the school's internal social media has soared
by Jerry Cayford

It is almost Groundhog Day again. Time for the ritual rewatching of Groundhog Day, the comically ingenious and wildly successful retelling of Beauty and the Beast. More than just a delightful comedy, Groundhog Day does justice to the deep psychological roots of an ancient fairy tale (Beauty and the Beast is, along with Rumpelstiltskinabout which I wrote previouslyin a small group of the oldest stories in Western literature), while reinventing it for our time.

Versions of Beauty and the Beast differ so greatly that it is hard to find a core set of elements, or confidently identify what is or isnt a version of the story. (Wikipedia has a long list.) The larger category (ATU 425: The Search for the Lost Husband, or The Animal Bridegroom) includes Cupid and Psyche, from ancient Greece and Rome, where the husband is a god, not an animal, and it is Beauty who is tested and must change. Some stories start with marriage instead of ending there. In East of the Sun and West of the Moon (Norway), Beauty marries the white bear and only sees her husband as a beast by day. In the dark, though, he comes to her bed as a man, so long as she does not attempt to see his true form.

These tales are tales of alienation between a couple who do not know each others secrets, and do not trust each other. They live in material splendor in enchanted castles, and are lonely. The theme is how two become one.

Groundhog Day recreates Beauty and the Beast with clever narrative innovations. Usually, Beauty, a paragon of virtue, is the protagonist; but an unchanging protagonist makes for a static story: all the drama, all the change is happening in the secondary character, Beast. By making Beast the protagonist, Groundhog Day brings us close to the thematic action. Another narrative difficulty it solves is how a Beast isolated in a castle has time and reason for profound psychological change. (Fans of Disneys versions create convoluted analyses about how long the story takes and how time must move differently in the castle and the town.) By giving Beast infinite time, Groundhog Day can thoroughly detail the stages of his transformation from self-centered jerk to caring community member, plausibly earning his release from the spell.

Every version of Beauty and the Beast that I know of feels incomplete. The widely familiar Disney versions and Groundhog Day show only the Beast changing; Beauty is perfection from the start. The true marriage of two different entities, though, will require transformations on both sides, and most versions hint that Beauty, too, needs to change. She is evidently going nowhere, and implicitly is unsuited to marry: sometimes she is too devoted to her father; sometimes men are scared off by her beauty; sometimes her beauty is so great that the goddess Venus is offended and curses her. But something is not right with her. Excessive devotion to her family, especially her two wicked sisters, causes her to betray Beast (or to light a candle to see and spill hot wax on her sleeping husband). Disney deletes the sisters and blames society for Beautys poor dating choices, but the story requires some imperfection and a need for change on her part.

The softening of flaws in our main characters comes from the classic 18th-century versions of the story, especially Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumonts book-length 1740 telling, which Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve drastically edited to create our canonical tale in 1756. These versions seem so concerned with propriety that they insist both Beauty and Beast (aside from the spell) are really perfect in every way; the spell makes Beast hideously ugly and also dull-witted so the story can focus purely on seeing past physical charm and wit to moral virtue. They even give eye-rollingly implausible back stories to make Beauty nobly-born and Beast blameless for his enchantment. That prissiness would not sell in the 20th century, and modern versions like Disneys and Groundhog Day know that Beast starts out beastly and justly punished.

Jean Cocteaus 1946 film La Belle et la Bete sticks close to the canonical story yet subtly hints at deeper insights. The objects in the castle that serve Beautydisembodied arms holding candelabras, the magic mirrorall suggest she is really surrounded by servants, but her loneliness has turned these people to inanimate objects and made the castle feel deserted. (Disneys extremely animate objects, filled with personality, undermine this theme of Beautys isolation.) When Cocteaus Beast returns to human form at the end, he looks just like Beautys suitor in the village; he asks and she tells him she loved her suitor (who has died trying to steal Beasts treasure) but could not commit to him. The implication of this simple visual device is that Beast and the suitor were always one and the same, and the story is of a couple who were always together but became alienated by the husbands indulgence of his beastly side (probably his pursuit of worldly treasure).

Expanding on Cocteaus hints of greater psychological depth here, lets look at the wider folktale tradition. All of these pop-culture versions have been pretty tame compared to the hard-hitting norm for fairy tales. The process of personal transformation can be brutal, and fairy tales traditionally pull no punches in portraying it. Scholars of folklore have a lot to say about this topic, and Bruno Bettelheims 1976 The Uses of Enchantment makes the case that the violence of folktales is essential to their function of inoculating the child against the worlds violence. A quick, witty, and wonderful introduction is John Updikes review of Bettelheims book in the New York Times, (digitally archived), beginning with this pithy Bettelheim summary: Each fairy tale is a magic mirror which reflects some aspects of our inner world, and of the steps required by our evolution from immaturity to maturity. However outward the stories action, the inner aspect is always key.

In Apuleiuss 2nd-century story Cupid and Psyche, a much older version of Beauty and the Beast, the names alone tell us that this ancient tale concerns the inner forces and workings of the mind. Cupid is eros, our creative and erotic force, and Psyche is, well, psyche: mind, soul, spirit. All of these stories are about the unification of our beastly erotic nature with more civilized passions within us. Apuleius draws on Greek myths from a few centuries earlier, which brings us to the inescapable Plato. In keeping with the truism that all of Western thought is a footnote to Plato, any reading we make we read through Plato. Reading Beauty and the Beast through Plato, though, shows an especially interesting twist.

Platos famous metaphor of the human soul as a chariot has three parts (Ill use John Uebersaxs description, where you can find much more): a charioteer (Reason), and two winged steeds: one white (spiritedness, the irascible element, boldness) and one black (the appetitive element, concupiscence, desire). This image comes to us rewritten by Freud as the ego, the super-ego, and the id. For our purposes, the point is that Beast is the black horse id, and the story is of white horse Beautys taming and conjoining the beast to make an integrated whole, one being, a true synthesis. The Freudian revision of Plato seems to match our modern idealization of Beauty: she has to be perfect to suit our sensitivities. That is, we have remade her as super-ego. Put that way, we havent progressed much from those 18th-century pieties, and the story doesnt cut as deep as it should. Platos white horse, however, is more passionate, complex, and energeticmore partner and companion horse than charioteerand points us toward better readings of Beauty and the Beast.

The allegory of the charioteer is not original to Plato. As Uebersax says, The myth itself is not Platos  it was ancient even for him, perhaps coming from Egypt or Mesopotamia  but he adapted and reworked it. In thinking of Beauty not as cold perfection or chastising super-ego taming the Beast (how many times does Rita slap Phil in Groundhog Day?), but rather as courage, boldness, heroism, spiritedness and what some call the irascible (Uebersax), I cant help thinking of a somewhat different story as, again, Beauty and the Beast. If ever there was a writer as capable as Plato of reworking ancient folktales into complex and nuanced dramas of the human condition, it is William Shakespeare. And that irascible sounds very like Katherinecalled plain Kate, And bonny Kate, and sometimes Kate the cursedin Shakespeares comedy The Taming of the Shrew.

Shakespeare sourced his plays sometimes from folk and fairy tales, and The Taming of the Shrew is generally considered one such. Since it is superficially most like another whole set of folktales of husbands disciplining their wives (and then showing off their control), it is routinely categorized with those tales. Shakespeare, though, is a master of finding deeper complexities in simple stories and of weaving different sources into works transcending those beginnings. It is hardly a stretch, then, to find him dressing a deeper story of Beauty and her Beast as a simpler stereotypical one.

Part of the attraction of this interpretation is that The Taming of the Shrew is a ferociously two-sided story: the raging, brawling, witty Katherine and Petruchio both give as good as they get. If Beauty and the Beast (The Animal Bridegroom, The Search for the Lost Husband, Eros and Psyche) is the story of two parts transforming into a unified whole, then both parts are essential and both must adapt. If this is the deeper story of The Taming of the Shrew, then Petruchio must transform as well as Kate.

It is not hard to find Petruchio changing in the play, but it requires not being too credulous about certain elements of the husband-disciplines-wife surface. For example, Petruchio says early he will pretend to be mad, and apparently does; but if a beast says hell pretend to be a beast, it doesnt mean he is NOT a beast. Likewise, in the (infamous) last speech of Katherine, she claims to be a submissive wife. Various circumstances complicate that message, such as its being the longest speech of the play and full of complex, self-confident analysis, as well as being preceded by her dragging the other wives in by their ears; the fact that the other marriages are far from male-dominated also complicates any misogynist reading. Most importantly, though, the thesis of Beauty and the Beast, that two parts can become a single whole, does entail that each part becomes subordinate. In this way, Katherines speech is serious, but her subordination is to the true marriage Shakespeare is depicting, not to some separate and dominating individual outside herself.

The Taming of the Shrew, especially in the broad, physical, commedia dellarte style often employed, can seem as brutal as fairy tales typically are. Modern audiences like a lighter touch, and we edit out violence and simplify the story. Thats okay. A gentler story can get the message across. The 1951 film The African Queen has a wonderfully light touch, and still it is both Beauty and the Beast and The Taming of the Shrew.

I can forgive Groundhog Day for simplifying the Beauty side of the story because I dont forget there are two sides, and it tells Beasts story in so much more depth than any other version I know. Beauty and the Beast is notoriously sketchy on why Beast is cursed. (Probably that 18th-century reluctance to admit a princely Beast is bad.) Versions that do give a reason (such as Disneys) are pretty cursory and generic: arrogant and selfish, the prince pissed off a witch. Groundhog Day says nothing whatsoever about how Beasts absurd situation came to be. But while it leaves the fairy tale magic unexplained, it has an evocative and tragicomic scene with something to say about the very human nihilism underneath beastliness. Its the scene with the two drinking buddies, the scene that launches Phil on his hedonistic phase:

Phil: What would you do, if you were stuck in one place, and every day was exactly the same, and nothing you did mattered?

Bar guy: That about sums it up for me.

Stripped of magic, beastliness appears as something ever present, not to be vanquished forever by a kiss or a declaration of love, but worked at steadily, like a true marriage. (Johnny Cashs rendition of The Beast in Me nails it.)

Groundhog Day, for all its depth and wit, is just a beginning, a wonderful part of a larger story. My pleasure in the movie is enhanced by the rich tradition of fairy and folk talesand theatre and philosophyfrom whence this great comedy came.
In January 2023, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was largely considered the future of the Republican Party and was the favorite to take down former President Donald Trump.

But on Sunday, DeSantis retreated to Florida after a campaign stop in South Carolina, released a four-and-a-half-minute video on X announcing he was dropping out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Trump.

A series of four separate indictments allowed Trump to brand himself a political martyr for the January 6, 2021 Capitol riots  and an increasingly disorganized DeSantis campaign riddled with staffing and money issues led to a swift decline for the governor.

When 2023 started, DeSantis had not yet announced he was running for president, but was already standing at nearly 35 percent support, according to a FiveThirtyEight polling average. This was only about 10 points behind Trump, who had already made it public he was again seeking office in 2024.

When exiting the race on Sunday, however, DeSantis stood at just 11 percent support in the national average compared to Trump's 66 percent. And in New Hampshire on Sunday, two separate polls had DeSantis with only 6 percent support among Republican voters.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis started off 2023 with 35% support for a presidential bid, but ended the year with just 11%. Pictured: DeSantis announced Sunday he was leaving the presidential race after eight moths and endorsed former President Donald Trump on his way out the door

DeSantis struggled to regain ground in polls after four different indictments against Donald Trump over the last year saw the former president surge. One indictment came in March, another in June and two others in August  along with an FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago that month

But before results could be rendered in the first-in-the-primary Granite state on Tuesday, DeSantis ended his bid and endorsed Trump despite the relentless name-calling from the ex-president over the last year.

DeSantis' move comes after a second place finish in Iowa's caucuses on January 15, where he earned 21.2 percent of the vote behind Trump's dominating 51 percent and ahead of United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haleuy's 19.1 percent.

The first sign of trouble in DeSantis' bid came in March, when the first indictment came down against Trump related to the 'hush money' payments he made to porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 presidential election. The New York indictment included 34 criminal charges for first degree falsification of business records.

Just days after the March incidentment, Trump saw a nearly 10 percentage point jump by the beginning of April. Meanwhile, DeSantis saw a 5 percent drop at the same time.

With some peaks and valleys along the way, DeSantis started to see a downward trend, as did other candidates, while Trump began to climb ever further up.

Then came a second federal indictment against Trump in June in the Southern District of Florida for taking classified documents from the White House after leaving office in January 2017 to his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach. The 40 criminal charges allege he mishandled sensitive documents and was involved in a conspiracy to obstruct the government from retrieving the materials.

By July, DeSantis had dropped to under 20 percent support on the national level (19.5 percent) and Trump was up to 53 percent against about a dozen other candidates in the primary race.

DeSantis saw a massive decline from January 2023 to January 2024. He exited the race with just 11% support

August was likely a solidifying month for Trump's frontrunner status.

The first day of August, a Washington D.C. court levied a four-charge indictment against Trump for the January 6 Capitol attack. It charges the former president with conspiring to defraud the government and disenfranchise voters as well as obstructing the official proceeding of certification of the 2020 presidential election.

Then, just a few days later on August 8, the FBI raided Trump's home at Mar-a-Lago in execution of a search warrant to obtain classified documents he removed from D.C. in relation to the June indictment against him.

On August 14  not even a week later  a grand jury in Georgia charged Trump with 13 counts on allegations he attempted to overturn Joe Biden's 2020 election win in the key swing state. Eighteen other co-conspirators were also charged.

All of the happenings in August, especially the raid, infuriated Trump supporters. Polls even showed that Republican voters felt even more emboldened to back him in 2024 after the raid and the two separate indictments related to the 2020 election.

By September, Trump was earning around 60 percent support and DeSantis had dropped to around 11 percent, which is near where he remained in national polls for the rest of the election until he dropped out on Sunday.

A New Hampshire Republican primary poll released on Sunday shows Nikki Haley 19% behind Donald Trump among GOP voters in the state  but 1% ahead of the former president among independent voters. DeSantis was only at 6% and dropped out of the race later in the day

And in January 2024 polls released ahead of New Hampshire's primary election, Trump holds more than 66 percent support nationally.

Trump and Haley are the only remaining Republican candidates in the primary race. As of Monday, Haley holds 12.3 percent support nationally.

DeSantis' 25-point drop over the course of a year was not only fueled by what Trump dubs the 'witch hunts' against him, but also by eight months of a campaign plagued with problems.

After a glitchy start to his campaign with a crashed Twitter Spaces launch in May, DeSantis couldn't seem to ever fully recover.

Throughout the campaign there was chatter that he was awkward on the stump, and rumors swirled that he was wearing lifts in his cowboy boots to appear taller.

Early on, DeSantis had impressive fundraising totals, but by July he had cut a third of his staff, 38 aides in total. Additionally, several reports indicated he was bleeding money from his donors and toward the end of the campaign, several high-dollar donors were fleeing.
Tory MPs today hit back at Sir Keir Starmer's 'KGB tactics' after he accused the Conservatives of 'sabotaging' charities such as the RNLI and National Trust.

In a speech in central London, the Labour leader said the Government was engaged in 'weird McCarthyism' by trying to find 'woke agendas' in British civic institutions.

He sniped the Tories' had become 'tangled up in culture wars of their own making' due to a 'desperation to cling onto power at all costs'.

But Sir Keir faced a swift backlash from Conservatives who said they were 'speaking up for traditional values' in an effort by the Left itself to 'undermine these institutions'.

The row came as Labour frontbencher Thangam Debbonaire, the shadow culture secretary, suggested her party would not be opposed to children being taught about 'white privilege'.

The term is used to refer to inherent advantages possessed by a white person on the basis of their race in a society characterised by racial inequality.

Sir Keir Starmer attacked Margaret Thatcher's 'no such thing as society' refrain today as he accused ministers of 'sabotaging' charities

In a speech at a civil society summit in central London, Sir Keir said the Government was engaged in 'McCarthyism' by trying to find 'woke agendas' in British civic institutions

Sir Keir said the voice of charities had been 'ignored' and he wanted to create a 'Society of Service'

Tory MP Bob Seely compared Sir Keir's speech at a civil society summit to an 'old KGB tactic to accuse your opponents of the thing that you're doing yourselves'

Labour frontbencher suggests Labour would not be opposed to children being taught about white privilege Thangam Debbonaire Shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire today suggested Labour was not opposed to children being taught about 'white privilege' and said encouraging pupils to be questioning 'is a good idea'. It came as she was quizzed about past complaints about the Barnardo's charity after it published a blogpost offering parents tips on how to discuss white privilege with their children. The term is used to refer to inherent advantages possessed by a white person on the basis of their race in a society characterised by racial inequality. Ms Debbonaire told BBC Radio 4's World At One programme: 'We need education that allows children the opportunity to question, to ask difficult questions sometimes of our nation's history. 'That's a strong country that's able to look at itself and its history and say 'are there things we could have done differently? Are there things we regret? 'Are there even things that we're sorry about? But also are there things we can learn so that we make a stronger, better country for the future?' She added 'questioning our symbols' and thinking about what they mean 'doesn't mean that you're undermining them, it means that you're looking at them and thinking how can I appreciate these symbols and what their meaning is?'. In 2021, it was found Barnardo's did not breach charity laws when it published the blogpost on its website. Advertisement

Bob Seely, the Isle of Wight MP, compared Sir Keir's speech at a civil society summit to an 'old KGB tactic to accuse your opponents of the thing that you're doing yourselves'.

'The Left are relentlessly politicising a lot of areas of our life that they shouldn't be doing,' he told TalkTV.

'Let's get our facts right here, the culture wars have started with an unrelenting attack on our institutions by people who don't believe in biological sex, or who hate our history, or who wish to impose a world view on us.

'Then conservatives... 'small c' conservatives or 'big C' Conservatives like me say 'hold on a second', and then lefty lawyers like Keir Starmer say 'you're attacking these institutions'.

'No, Keir Starmer and the Left are trying to undermine these institutions.

'We're speaking up for the traditional values that are shared by millions of people - including millions of Labour voters - up and down the country against those who don't.'

Former Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage has previously dubbed the RNLI a 'migrant taxi service' for its role in helping asylum seekers in small boats in the English Channel to safety.

The National Trust has also been accused of being 'woke' for reviewing the influence of slavery on its properties.

In his speech this morning, Sir Keir said the Government had 'got themselves so tangled up in culture wars of their own making' that it had 'demonised' the RNLI rather than working with it to solve the Channel migrants crisis.

He continued: 'Instead of working with the National Trust so more people can learn about  and celebrate  our culture and our history, they've managed to demean their work.

'In its desperation to cling on to power at all costs, the Tory Party is undertaking a kind of weird McCarthyism, trying to find woke agendas in the very civic institutions they once regarded with respect.'

Turning to Margaret Thatcher, Sir Keir said: 'One Conservative prime minister said there was 'no such thing as society.' And then we watched individualism run rampant.

'Cameron talked about the Big Society. A great idea, in principle. But when austerity kicked in, we ended up with the Poor Society.

'Now we need a new vision for a new era. A renewed social contract. A new focus on those who build the bonds that connect us, the communities that nurture us, and the local institutions that support us.'

Last month Sir Keir was roasted by Labour activists after he hailed Baroness Thatcher for acting to 'drag Britain out of its stupor by setting loose our natural entrepreneurialism'.

The comments were the latest effort to distance himself from the Corbyn era, as both parties push towards an election this year.

But critics pointed out that Sir Keir once represented striking miners for free as a lawyer, and backed the nationalisation of key infrastructure.

And the Corbynite Momentum group said that Sir Keir had 'brought shame on the party' with the remarks.

In his speech at the Civil Society Summit this morning, the Labour leader said the Conservatives were waging a war on 'the proud spirit of service in this country'.

Sir Keir said: 'It's desperate, it's divisive, it's damaging.'

However, Rishi Sunak claimed Sir Keir's speech was an attempt to 'distract' from his lack of policies.

The PM told broadcasters Sir Keir 'can't actually say what he would do differently to run this country'.

Rishi Sunak claimed Sir Keir's speech was an attempt to 'distract' from his lack of policies

What did Thatcher say about society? In an interview with Woman's Own in 1987, Margaret Thatcher said: 'I think we have gone through a period when too many children and people have been given to understand 'I have a problem, it is the Government's job to cope with it!' or 'I have a problem, I will go and get a grant to cope with it!' 'I am homeless, the Government must house me!' and so they are casting their problems on society and who is society? There is no such thing! 'There are individual men and women and there are families and no government can do anything except through people and people look to themselves first.' Advertisement

'That's because he doesn't have a plan  can't say how he'd bring the number of small boat arrivals down, can't say how he would fund his 28 billion green spending spree which just means higher taxes,' Mr Sunak said.

'And the contrast is clear. Our plan is working. The boat numbers are coming down, the longest waits in the NHS have been virtually eliminated and this month we're cutting people's taxes.

'So if we stick with the plan, we can build a brighter future. The alternative is just to go back to square one with Keir Starmer, he doesn't have a plan and he can't tell you what he would do differently.'

Ms Debbonaire this afternoon suggested Labour was not opposed to children being taught about white privilege and said encouraging pupils to be questioning 'is a good idea'.

She was quizzed about past complaints about the Barnardo's charity after it published a blogpost offering parents tips on how to discuss white privilege with their children.

Ms Debbonaire told BBC Radio 4's World At One programme: 'We need education that allows children the opportunity to question, to ask difficult questions sometimes of our nation's history.

'That's a strong country that's able to look at itself and its history and say 'are there things we could have done differently? Are there things we regret?

'Are there even things that we're sorry about? But also are there things we can learn so that we make a stronger, better country for the future?'

She added 'questioning our symbols' and thinking about what they mean 'doesn't mean that you're undermining them, it means that you're looking at them and thinking how can I appreciate these symbols and what their meaning is?'.

In 2021, it was found Barnardo's did not breach charity laws when it published the blogpost on its website.
The Supreme Court on Monday said it will hear an appeal from Oklahoma death row inmate Richard Glossip, who has steadfastly maintained his innocence and averted multiple attempts by the state to execute him.

Glossip was sentenced in a 1997 murder-for-hire of the owner of the motel where he worked.

The case won't be argued until the fall.

Glossip now has the support of the state's Republican attorney general, Gentner Drummond, who says Glossip's life should be spared because he did not get a fair trial.

'Public confidence in the death penalty requires the highest standard of reliability, so it is appropriate that the U.S. Supreme Court will review this case,' Drummond said in a statement Monday.

'As Oklahoma's chief law officer, I will continue fighting to ensure justice is done in this case and every other.'

John Mills, an attorney for Glossip, said his client is innocent. 'He has no criminal history, no history of misconduct during his entire time in prison, and has maintained his innocence throughout a quarter century wrongfully on death row. It is time - past time - for his nightmare to be over,' Mills said in a statement.

The Supreme Court blocked the latest effort to execute Glossip in early May.

Oklahoma death row inmate Richard Glossip, who has steadfastly maintained his innocence for the 1997 murder of his motel owner boss. The Supreme Court will argue his case in the fall

Justin Sneed, a handyman, (left) admitted robbing and beating Mr Van Treese (right) to death in January 1997, but said he only did it after Glossip offered to pay him $10,000

Despite Drummond's doubts about the trial, an Oklahoma appeals court upheld Glossip's conviction, and the states pardon and parole board deadlocked in a vote to grant him clemency.

But Drummond also has said he does not believe Glossip is innocent of the murder-for-hire killing of his former boss, Barry Van Treese, in 1997. Another man, Justin Sneed, admitted robbing and killing Van Treese after Glossip promised to pay him $10,000. Sneed received a life sentence in exchange for his testimony and was the key witness against Glossip.

Two separate independent investigations have revealed problems with the prosecution's case.

Drummond said that Sneed lied on the witness stand about his psychiatric condition and his reason for taking the mood-stabilizing drug lithium and that prosecutors knew Sneed was lying.

Also, evidence was destroyed, Drummond said.

Some Republican state lawmakers who support the death penalty have joined the growing chorus of Glossip supporters who are seeking to overturn his conviction.

Glossip's case has been to the Supreme Court before. He was given a reprieve in 2015, although the court later ruled 5-4 against him in a case involving the drugs used in lethal executions.

In April 2023, Kim Kardashian posted a message in support of Glossip. His scheduled May 2023 execution was blocked by the Supreme Court

Glossip has been just hours away from being executed three times. His last scheduled execution, in September 2015, was halted just moments before he was to be led to the death chamber when prison officials realized they had received the wrong lethal drug. That mix-up helped prompt a nearly seven-year moratorium on the death penalty in Oklahoma.

Glossip's case attracted international attention after actor Susan Sarandon - who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of death penalty opponent Sister Helen Prejean in the 1995 movie 'Dead Man Walking' - took up his cause in real life. Prejean herself has served as Glossip's spiritual adviser and frequently visited him in prison. His case also was featured in the 2017 documentary film 'Killing Richard Glossip.'

In April 2023, Kim Kardashian spoke out in support of Glossip, arguing his actual innocence in the case.

'Richard Glossip needs our help, urgently! He has been on Oklahoma's death row for 24 years for a crime he did not commit and is now scheduled to be executed on May 18th,' she wrote in a tweet.

Last year Glossip married his second wife in prison, 32-year-old Lea Rodger, in Oklahoma State Penitentiary

It's exceedingly rare for a prosecutor to argue against executing a death row inmate. In a similar situation to Glossips a year ago, the justices ordered a Texas appeals court to look again at the case of a death row inmate who also had the backing of prosecutors. The inmate, Areli Escobar, had been convicted and sentenced to death based on forensic evidence that a judge later found to be flawed.

But the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned the judges order for a new trial, even though the newly elected prosecutor in Travis County, Texas, was no longer standing behind the conviction. When Escobar appealed to the Supreme Court, the prosecutor supported his bid. Escobar was not facing imminent execution.

The Supreme Court will hear Glossip's case with only eight justices. Justice Neil Gorsuch is not taking part, presumably because he was involved at an earlier stage of the case when he was an appeals court judge.

The high court had been weighing Glossip's appeal since late September. The reason for the delay in acting on it is unclear.=
Peterson is currently serving a life sentence for the 2002 murder of his wife Laci

A California fire official has claimed he investigated a burnt-out van that had traces of blood near Scott Peterson's home that could be used as new evidence in his case.

The Los Angeles Innocence Project took up the case of the convicted killer, with a view to revisiting previously 'withheld' evidence that may exonerate him, court records revealed on Thursday.

Peterson, 51, is currently serving life without parole for the 2002 murder of his wife Laci and their unborn son Conner.

Bryan Spitulski, a former investigator from the Modesto Fire Department, told ABC News he investigated a burnt-van that had a mattress with blood stains on it near the Petersons' Modesto home.

'I don't know that I was tying the moment to Laci, I was more tying the moment that it was human blood,' said Spitulski.

Bryan Spitulski, a former investigator from the Modesto Fire Department, told ABC News he investigated a burnt-van that had a mattress with blood stains on it near the Petersons home

The LA Innocence Project has taken up the case of Scott Petersen who was convicted of the murder of his wife Laci and their unborn son Conner in 2002

'It made it like this was much more important than just a burned vehicle that somebody was just wanting to get rid of or cover up a simple crime.'

The former fire investigator said he feelings strongly that the van evidence should be reassessed if there is blood that can still be tested.

'I don't have an agenda or an opinion on his guilt or his innocence. This is, for me, a fire investigation in a vehicle that has blood, possible blood, on the mattress, and that right there is important,' said Spitulski.

'This has always been one of those things that kind of sits in the back of your head and kind of bugs you a little bit and you kind of wonder why this didn't happen or why it wasn't brought up.'

The Los Angeles Innocence Project told DailyMail.com they are investigating Peterson's claim of actual innocence.

NBC News reported in new court filings, his attorneys focus on the burned out van, the burglary at the house across the street and evidence found on the shore of the Bay.

In paperwork submitted to the Superior Court of California in San Mateo, his lawyers point to 'blood spatter' in the home where Peterson is accused of murdering his pregnant wife Laci, but insist it does not belong to him.

The L.A. Innocence Project said they are revisiting previously 'withheld' evidence that may exonerate Peterson, who is currently serving a life sentence

Peterson was initially given the death penalty, but that was overturned by California's Supreme Court in August 2020

Peterson's lawyers claim his murder conviction should be quashed entirely because juror Richelle Nice (pictured), dubbed 'Strawberry Shortcake' was biased

Laci was 27-years-old and eight months pregnant when she disappeared on Christmas Eve in 2002.

Peterson led the search for his wife but was arrested months later when her body later washed up in the San Francisco shoreline in 2003.

He has always claimed that she was killed by a panicked burglar after catching them ransacking the couple's home.

A jury however convicted him of the killing, deciding he was motivated by an affair he was having at the time with Amber Frey, a 20-year-old massage therapist.

He was initially given the death sentence, but that punishment was overturned by California's Supreme Court in August 2020 after it found that jurors were improperly screened for bias.

Peterson's lawyers have previously unsuccessfully pushed for a retrial, claiming that Peterson's conviction was tainted by the involvement of a juror who was obsessed with him

Peterson was convicted after jurors were told he had a mistress, Amber Frey (pictured with Peterson) and that he was dreading becoming a father

Peterson's mistress, Amber Frey, did not know he was married when the two began dating

Richelle Nice later admitted sending the killer 17 letters - including one sent from the psychiatric unit and allegedly omitted crucial details about her past as a domestic abuse survivor during the jury selection process.

Nice, dubbed 'strawberry shortcake' due to her dyed red hair, revealed in court she penned more than a dozen letters to Peterson after she helped convict him while he was on death row.

But Judge Anne-Christine Massullo ruled that Nice, who was juror number seven, acted not out of wrongdoing but out of emotion brought on by the proceedings.

In December 2022, Peterson's request for a new trial was rejected. Now, the L.A. Innocence Project is spearheading his case.
Four men who took part in an 'EDL protest' outside an asylum seeker hotel have been found guilty of violent disorder after three police officers were injured and a police van was set on fire.

Today's convictions come after clashes outside Suites Hotel in Knowsley, Merseyside, on February 10 during a demonstration said to have been organised by the English Defence League.



A jury at Liverpool Crown Court found Brian McPadden, 61, Thomas Mills, 47, Paul Lafferty, 42, and Jonjo O'Donoghue, 21, guilty of violent disorder after deliberating for six hours and fifteen minutes.

The four defendants, all from Kirkby apart from O'Donoghue of Liverpool city centre, had admitted being present on the night but denied violent disorder.

Mills, who suffered two epileptic seizures during the trial, began to sob in the dock after the verdicts are returned and then fell from his seat.

Paul Lafferty, 42, left, and Jonjo O'Donoghue, 21, outside Liverpool Crown Court where they were today found guilty of violent disorder after last February's clashes outside a hotel

Thomas Mills, 47, seen outside Liverpool Crown Court, was also convicted of violent disorder over the demonstration outside Suites Hotel in Knowsley which was housing asylum seekers

Brian McPadden, 61, also found guilty of violent disorder, had told Liverpool Crown Court he was 'embarrassed' by his behaviour but insisted he had not thrown anything

Riot police attended the scene in Knowsley on February 10 last year after anticipating a protest had been called, thought to have been organised by the English Defence League

The court was adjourned as medical assistance was given to Mills and an ambulance was called.

A fifth defendant, Daniel Fulham, 39, was found not guilty of violent disorder and of a lesser offence of abusive or threatening behaviour with intent to provoke violence.

One member of the public left the court saying 'you f***ing bastards' after the first guilty verdict was returned.

During the trial, the court heard police were made aware on February 9 last year that a protest was expected to take place outside the hotel which was providing temporary accommodation for asylum seekers.

There was 'ill feeling' in the local area after a video was shared on social media appearing to show an asylum seeker from the hotel asking a 15-year-old girl for her phone number and a kiss, the court heard.

The jury was told social media posts were made about the planned demonstration and leaflets were delivered.

On the Friday evening, members of a right-wing group and a left-wing group gathered outside the hotel on the outskirts of Kirkby.

Detective Constable David Williams told the court that at about 7pm a large group of people arrived at the scene on foot, adding: 'At that time it seemed that tensions changed somewhat.'

Footage showed crowds chanting 'get them out' and throwing fireworks at a cordon of police officers, as a police van burned.

Rocks and paving slabs were also thrown, with one police officer needing hospital treatment and another two suffering less serious injuries.

Police imposed a daytime curfew to protect asylum seekers at the hotel in the week following last February's clashes.

Mills could be seen in footage standing on top of the van before it was set alight and holding a banner which said: 'Let's shout, get them out.'

Prosecutor Martyn Walsh earlier told the trial how the Matrix van was 'set on fire' and 'burnt out' after police equipment including riot shields, helmets and metal bars was taken from inside. Damage was calculated as being worth 83,686.

A Matrix police van was set on fire and police equipment was stolen from inside including riot shields, helmets and metal bars, with damage valued at almost 84,000

Firefighters joined police at the scene after fireworks were hurled and the van set alight

The police van was 'set on fire' and left 'burnt out', prosecutors told the crown court trial

Police in riot gear were attacked with fireworks as well as a concrete paving slab, with one officer needing hospital treatment and another two suffering less serious injuries

Mr Walsh told the court the 'majority of the evidence in the case' came from footage obtained by a police drone, body-worn cameras of PCs attending the scene and 'evidence-gathering officers' who were 'tasked with recording events'.

Four of the defendants were identified via these videos, with only one - Mills - being arrested on the night in question.

McPadden was heard in footage saying: 'We protect our own, youse are not from Kirkby, we are. These are tw*ts, the lot of them.'

There was no evidence any of the defendants were members of a far-right group.

McPadden told the court during his evidence last week he was 'embarrassed' by his behaviour, but said he was there for a 'peaceful protest'.

The grandfather insisted he 'never threw nothing' during the incident and described such behaviour as 'disgusting', adding: 'It was hitting us as well as the police.'

Asked of his comments at the scene, he added: 'I was just frustrated, to be honest - the police werent doing nothing.'

Mr Walsh said of Mills: 'He played an important role into violence, encouraging others to behave violently. He goes on to put himself right up against the police cordon.'

Jurors also heard that Lafferty was seen 'pointing towards the police' and shouting: You f***ing bullies - you are provoking violence.'

Both Mills and Lafferty elected not to give evidence to the jury.

Mr Walsh said the footage captured ODonoghue 'very clearly lighting fireworks and throwing those fireworks at police officers'.

The defendant claimed on the stand he had only attended that night 'out of boredom' and to 'try to get his friend away from the scene'.

He added: 'I let a couple of fireworks off out of curiosity. It wasnt something I intended to cause violence or anything to anyone.'

Police pictured at the Suites Hotel in Knowsley, Merseyside, on February 11 last year - the day after the violent clashes with demonstrators

Police had been tipped off that far-right protesters planned to gather outside the hotel while left-wing counter-demonstrations were also expected

Firefighters dousing down the police riot van which was set alight on February 10 last year

Five other men pleaded guilty to violent disorder at earlier hearings and have not yet been sentenced.

Seven youths, aged between 13 and 17, have been sentenced after they admitted violent disorder - with six given referral orders and one fined.

Jared Skeete, 19, was sentenced to three years' detention last April after he pleaded guilty to violent disorder, having thrown fireworks and snorted ketamine while shouting abuse at police.

Three women - Cheryl Nicholls, 44, Nicola Elliott, 52, and Jennifer Knox, 41 - were found not guilty of violent disorder halfway through the trial following a direction to the jury from judge Denis Watson, who said there was 'insufficient evidence'.
Judge Judy Sheindlin traveled to New Hampshire to make a campaign appearance Sunday night for Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, calling her a 'star,' after the longtime TV fixture endorsed the former U.N. ambassador earlier this month.

Sheindlin was the first celebrity endorser for Haley, the former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, who's the last GOP presidential candidate standing against frontrunner, former President Donald Trump.

The TV judge wrote in an op-ed for DailyMail.com Wednesday that part of the reason she liked Haley was her relative youth, at 51, compared to 77-year-old Trump and 81-year old President Joe Biden.

'I need a nap in the afternoon. So does Joe Biden. Probably two,' Sheindlin told CNN's Dana Bash in an interview Monday during her trip to New Hampshire.

Haley is campaigning in New Hampshire after barring DailyMail.com reporters and photographers from her events, objecting to coverage of alleged affairs during her time as a state legislator.

Judge Judy Sheindlin traveled to New Hampshire to make a campaign appearance Sunday night for Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who the longtime TV fixture endorsed earlier this month, opening for the former U.N. ambassador at a rally in Exeter

Sheindlin said she was backing former U.N. Amb. Nikki Haley (left) due in part to her relative youth compared to President Joe Biden (right), who the TV judge said at 81 'probably' needs two naps per day, as Sheindlin, also 81, needs one

Sheindlin was the opening act for Haley at her rally Sunday night in Exeter, the candidate's final event of the day, which came in the hours following Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' shock desicion to pull out of the 2024 race.

'Can you hear that sound? That's the sound of a two-person race,' Haley told the her supporters to cheers.

Moments before, Sheindlin talked about why - after endorsing Michael Bloomberg in 2020 but otherwise staying above the political fray - she was keen to see Haley in the Oval Office.

'We are at a crossroad and for me, finding the person that we can be proud of, not only domestically, but on the national stage in 2024 is probably the most important decision that all of us are going to have to make,' Sheindlin said. 'In our current history, Nikki Haley has to be that candidate.'

The TV judge said she wasn't there to 'bash the competition.'

'Although Im perfectly capable of doing that,' she added to laughs.

'Suffice it to say that when you teach a child not to put their hand over a flame, you do that because you know they're going to get burned. Well, we have gotten burned. And when you go back and put your hand over the flame again, you say, you know what, "Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me,"' Sheindlin continued. 'We have already seen what these two presidences look like - it's time for Nikki Haley.'

Nikki Haley (left) and Judge Judy Sheindlin (right) embrace onstage during a rally Sunday night in Exeter, New Hamsphire. Sheindlin wrote an op-ed for DailyMail.com on Wednesday explaining why she was backing the former South Carolina governor's 2024 campaign

'This is her moment! She is a star,' Sheindlin said, adding that Haley was the 'real deal.'

She asked New Hampshire voters, who head to the polls Tuesday, to use their 'brains and your heart.'

'Bring her home on Tuesday,' the TV judge said.

Sheindlin and Haley shared a hug onstage before the candidate took over.

'How cool is it to have Judge Judy endorse you? It really is,' Haley said. 'She's a trailblazer. She's tough. She speaks hard truths. She doesn't mince words.'
A Biden impeachment vote is not yet in the works as Republicans have yet to criminally tie Joe Biden to Hunter's shady business dealings

Republicans on the House Homeland Security Committee plan to vote on Mayorkas impeachment articles on January 30

Mayorkas proceedings lasted only a little over a week before a markup to advance impeachment articles to the House floor was scheduled

House Republicans are quickly pressing forward with impeaching Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas as their effort gains momentum compared to their parallel - and more complex - effort to remove President Biden from office.

The dueling impeachment inquiries have been somewhat uniting for the notoriously fractious Republican conference as even a share of moderate members have signaled they are support impeaching the DHS secretary.

And while the Mayorkas inquiry is pressing ahead at lightning speed with an anticipated committee impeachment articles markup and vote on January 30, the Biden inquiry is moving at a slower pace.

Republicans announced last week that they have successfully landed interviews with some of Hunter Biden's inner circle they will conduct over the next several weeks.

And Hunter himself will be grilled on Capitol Hill at the end of February, after weeks of back and forth and a contempt of Congress threat.

A Biden impeachment vote is not yet in the works as Republicans have yet to criminally tie Joe Biden to Hunter's shady business dealings and unify more skeptical members of their conference.

House Republicans are pressing forward with impeaching Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas - as their efforts to remove President Biden from office have a murkier path

It also comes as the Senate is continuing to hash out a bipartisan deal to combine border security provisions with money for Ukraine and Israel

Neither Mayorkas nor Biden are likely to ever be removed from office by Congress as their impeachments would not pass through the Senate.

The Homeland Security Committee wrapped up impeachment hearings and is expected to vote on articles of impeachment for Mayorkas on January 30 when the House returns from recess. From there, the articles can move to the House floor.

The proceedings lasted only a little over a week, with two public hearings and no appearance from Mayorkas himself.

Republicans are charging him with high crimes and misdemeanors for failing for failing to maintain operational security at the southern border.

It also comes as the Senate is continuing to hash out a bipartisan deal to combine border security provisions with money for Ukraine and Israel.

The deal is seemingly a long shot, as Republicans in the House say they won't accept any border security provisions that are less than what they passed in H.R. 2, their conservative House border bill.

Months ago it seemed impeaching Mayorkas had lost steam as the Biden impeachment inquiry was launched and authorized with a full House vote.

But the secretary was brought back into the crosshairs after Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., forced a full House vote on impeachment, which resulted in a vote to send the articles back to the Homeland Security Committee.

During the last impeachment hearing last week ranking member Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., tore into Republicans for moving so quickly with the proceedings and failing to provide further funds to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Hunter Biden will be grilled on Capitol Hill next month, after weeks of back and forth and a contempt threat

'Those people who have voted against putting more resources on the border, who voted against improving technology along the border, or engagement with countries such as Mexico, who've never voted for it, now all of a sudden the problem is the man who's in charge, who's only carrying out the policies of the person he works for,' Thomson said.

He also knocked House Republicans for snubbing the Senate's immigration policy negotiations, noting 'those real levers of power don't seem to be flashy enough for my Republican colleagues.'

Meanwhile all 18 Republican members of the Homeland Security Committee released a statement on Thursday saying they back impeaching Mayorkas.

But a successful impeachment vote is not guaranteed, especially with the House GOP's three-seat majority.

Homeland Security Chair Mark Green has been holding one-on-one meetings with Republicans dubious of whether Mayorkas' actions amount to high crimes and misdemeanors.

Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., has warned impeaching Mayorkas sets a 'dangerous' precedent, but said he'll keep an open mind on the prospect.

It comes as border crossings have reached formerly unimaginable records. Some 300,000 migrants attempted to cross into the U.S. through the U.S.-Mexico border in December.

More than one million people have been allowed into the U.S. under the Biden administration on the basis of parole alone, according to a new CBS report.

Some 300,000 migrants attempted to cross into the U.S. through the U.S.-Mexico border in December

Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee and member of the Homeland Security Committee, led a bipartisan delegation to the border

But with a fresh sense of urgency, immigration officials filed some 265,000 deportation cases in December, a figure that is higher than the total number of cases for any entire fiscal year from 2001 to 2017, according to Syracuse's nonpartisan research group TRAC Reports.

Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee and member of the Homeland Security Committee, led a bipartisan delegation to the border in McAllen, Texas, over the weekend where he tore into Mayorkas.

'When I go home the No. 1 issue is the border, and this one man is the architect of destruction down here,' he said on Fox News over the weekend.

'One man has caused all this chaos, deaths of fentanyl poisoning, you know, danger to the country with terrorists coming in, 8 million encounters with no legal status. He is the architect. He has destroyed the fabric of this nation.'
The Conservatives have sunk to their lowest popularity rating since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister, a grim new poll reveals today.

The Tories have fallen three points to 22 per cent in the latest survey by Redfield & Wilton Strategies, a point lower than the pollsters recorded after he took over from Liz Truss in October 2022.

It is higher than the low of 19 per cent the Tories polled under his predecessor Liz Truss but they are now 23 points behind Labour and just 10 points ahead of Reform, which is now up to 12 per cent, a figure which will set alarm bells ringing in No10.

Almost a fifth (18 per cent) of those who voted Tory at the 2019 election said they would now switch to the party set up by Nigel Farage, almost as many as who say they will now vote Labour (19 per cent)

It comes after a week of turmoil in Tory ranks, with the party bitterly divided over plans to deport Channel migrants to Rwanda.

And the PM faces further battles ahead to turn the polls around before an election expected in the second half of the year.

The Tories have fallen three points to 22 per cent in the latest survey by Redfield & Wilton Strategies, a point lower than the pollsters recorded after he took over from Liz Truss in October 2022.

Rishi Sunak, pictured today on a visit to Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire, is trying to glue the Tories back together ahead of the election

Peers are gearing up for battle with the PM today as they attempt to stop the new Rwanda Treaty being ratified.

Labour former Attorney General Lord Goldsmith has tabled a motion seeking to delay the pact - adding a fresh obstacle to the government's plans.

The move comes despite the PM delivering a stark warning that the unelected House must not 'frustrate the will of the people' after Rwanda legislation was passed by the Commons.

The UK agreed the treaty with Kigali in December, saying it addressed concerns raised by the Supreme Court about the possibility of asylum seekers deported to Rwanda then being transferred to a country where they could be at risk.

The agreement underpins the legislation designed to get deportation flights up and running by Mr Sunak's Spring deadline.

This morning Mr Sunak admitted there are also 'practical issues' with his flagship childcare policy today - as he gave a vote of confidence in Jeremy Hunt.

The PM conceded there are difficulties but played down mounting concerns that the planned expansion of free childcare faces delays.

He insisted the government will keep the pledge that all working parents of two year olds will get 15 hours a week funded from April.

Mr Sunak also moved to quash mutterings about Mr Hunt's position, categorically confirming he will be Chancellor at the time of the next election.

The premier is pinning his hopes of staying in power on tax cuts on the Budget on March 6, with claims income tax or national insurance will be targeted.

Mr Hunt invoked the Thatcherite spirit of the 1980s over the weekend, with speculation that he could have 10billion to play with due to lower borrowing costs.

But there are worrying signs for Mr Sunak this morning, with claims that his crucial Meanwhile, research by More in Common has suggested Mr Sunak's personal ratings have been tumbling, with just 26 per cent of voters viewing him as an asset compared to 37 per cent in October.

The government will get official figures on the public finances tomorrow, and the Office for Budget Responsibility watchdog will give a private early assessment to the Treasury this week.
Buyers will pay a premium for rural lots far from the cities they are fleeing

Real estate developers with links to far-right groups are marketing a rural haven for likeminded Christian nationalists fleeing 'cultural insanity'.

The Highland Rim Project is two parcels of land in Kentucky either side of Burkesville, near the Tennessee border, carved up into dozens of empty lots.

One 460-acre area was snapped up for about $900,000 in 2022, and the other 170-acre tract for $1.03 million, property records showed.

They were bought by Kentucky Ridge Runner LLC with the backing of venture fund New Founding, both sharing the same leadership.

Both entities espouse far-right ideology and spend considerable time denigrating a mainstream America they claim is overrun by the 'totalitarian left'.

The Highland Rim Project is two parcels of land in rural Kentucky either side of Burkesville, near the Tennessee border, carved up into dozens of lots

Instead they promote a remote 'aligned community' where buyers can 'disappear from the cultural insanity of the broader country'.

'With the rise of remote work and rural broadband, and crowds of people looking to leave the city and return to a more sane lifestyle, an opportunity presents itself,' Ridge Runner wrote on its website.

'There is an opportunity for people to build new types of communities built around shared values and the American way of life.'

New Founding boasts that it 'explicitly oppose[s] DEI/ESG and the bureaucratization of American business culture' and bet on 'customers disfavored by corrosive ideologies'.

Joshua Abbotoy, a managing partner of New Founding and, along with his father Mark, partner at Ridge Runner, said 'most of the leadership is going to be led by Protestant Christians' and hoped to spread wider.

'The aspiration is that long-term down the road, 20 years from today, we continue to do this. We're regionally focused - we can expand from there to states,' he said.

How the project would retain its ideological purity among residents without falling foul of regulations, other than aggressive marketing, is unclear.

It is illegal discrimination to refuse real estate sales on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, familial status, or national origin.

Joshua Abbotoy, a managing partner of New Founding and partner at Ridge Runner, claimed the left was out to destroy projects like his because they were viewed as an 'existential threat'

Santiago sat down with Josh Abbotoy (@Byzness) to discuss the vision for an exciting new real estate project in the Eastern Highland Rim region of Tennessee.



In partnership with @usaridge, New Founding is launching an aligned community.



Short and waitlist below  pic.twitter.com/G1J3PCcgbO  New Founding (@NewFounding) January 1, 2024

Responding to online criticism of the project, Abbotoy claimed the left was out to destroy projects like his because they were viewed as an 'existential threat'.

'They will stand by - no, they will cheer - while Bill Gates/foreign investors/private equity buy up Appalachia and terraform it into a globally homogenized pile of slop, obliterating its customs and traditions and dispossessing the locals,' he wrote.

'Of course, they have myriad of their own affinity-based communities; the "gayborhood" in any American city is an example of this. But they fear right-wing America becoming culturally self-determinative.

'Show any sign of life, and they will dispatch ghouls like these to descend on your small towns and make you international news.

'They are angry because some people, somewhere, however modestly, had the gall to envision a future in which they have no input.'

Abbotoy insisted the developments complied with the Fair Housing Act.

One development, The Bend at Cumberland River, is 7.5 miles southwest of Burkesville was bought for $1.03 million.

Half the 170-acre area is divided into half and three-quarters of an acre lots costing $45,000, with a few cheaper ones and those with 'premium view' up to $60,000.

These lots all extend right up to the river's edge and there were plans to build a community boat ramp and pavilion.

The other half was put aside for community buildings such as a church, school, and recreational amenities.

Longhollow Acres, advertised as a 'rolling 550-acre farm' includes 460 acres bought for $900,000, and the rest belonging to another owner

Though not far from the river, these plots are in valleys between forests known as 'hollers' that form 'very private fortresses' for those fleeing civilization

Longhollow Acres, advertised as a 'rolling 550-acre farm' includes 460 acres bought for $900,000, and the rest belonging to another owner.

Though not far from the river, these plots are in valleys between forests known as 'hollers' that form 'very private fortresses' for those fleeing civilization.

Ridge Runner said they were not only perfect for hunting and farming, but also 'prepping'.

The development has 17 lots, mostly three to five acres starting at $39,900, along four premium lots of 93 and 126 acres - and a massive property for $399,000.

Both areas will have underground fiber-optic internet enabling work-from-home, electricity, city water, and access roads all ready to go.

New Founding said developments like Highland Rim were in opposition to 'dominant corporate ideology' and 'designed to free us from censorship and bureaucracy'.

'Today, a left-wing ideology attacks natural distinctions, traditional norms, and our nations heritage,' it read.

'It is profoundly anti-human, eroding the very foundations of human excellence and undermining entrepreneurial initiative and economic success throughout our society.

'This ideology is pervasive: culture, politics, and certainly business - including the startup and venture capital space. Founders and investors are increasingly pressured to conform to its demands.'

Joshua Abbotoy's father Mark (pictured) is managing partner at Ridge Runner

Instead, it claimed to be 'pro-human', unlike the left, believing that people were 'made in the image of God' and born to 'exercise dominion' over the Earth.

'We reject trans-humanism and all other anti-human ideologies,' it claimed.

'Family + virtue + great achievement combine as building blocks of civilization that allow people to live well; we reject leveling ideologies that seek to impose false concepts of equality and destroy all unchosen duties.'

The company claimed to be pursuing its vision despite a 'totalitarian effort by the left to capture institutions across our society and use their power against dissenters'.

'We are also directly attacking the left's efforts by rejecting their taboos and doing business with people they tell us we must ostracize,' it read.
Biden's staggering border crisis has no end in sight as the number of deportation cases reached a record high last month and over one million migrants entered the U.S. under his parole program.

There were nearly 265,000 deportation cases filed in U.S. immigration courts in December 2023, more than the total of cases filed in any full fiscal year between 2006 and 2017, according to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, or TRAC.

TRAC found that there were 264,542 NTAs filled in December alone. Migrants who cross into the U.S. illegally are given a notice to appear - or NTA - which is the first step requiring them to appear in front of an Immigration Court judge.

But reports show that migrants are given court dates many years in the future, and they are often never tracked down or deported by immigration officials due to the massive backlog of millions of cases.

No fiscal year between 2006 to 2017 has ever exceeded 255,000 total NTAs.

But since October 2021, the beginning of the first fiscal year of Biden's tenure as president, there have been nearly three million NTAs filed in Immigration Courts.

By comparison, between fiscal years 2001 and 2018 there were 4.1 million NTAs filed, according to TRAC.

Notice to Appear court filings - the first step in many deportation cases - have skyrocketed under the Biden administration

Over 300,000 migrants crossed into the U.S. in December, a record number

One of the main vehicles the administration has used to allow migrants into the country is through humanitarian parole, an authority the government can use to award a non-citizen entry into the U.S. when the individual does not or cannot get a visa.

Parole is awarded on a case-by-case basis to migrants for humanitarian and public interest reasons. Afghans, Ukrainians and migrants at the U.S.-Mexico southern border are among those who have been offered parole.

Under Biden's administration, over one million migrants have been allowed to enter the U.S. under the provision, CBS News first reported.

The Biden administration has used the parole authority to admit over 420,000 migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, 340,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela and Nicaragua via plane, and more than 77,000 Afghans - many of whom were rescued following the Taliban's takeover of the country in 2021, according to the CBS News report.

In fact, humanitarian parole is so popular that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services put out an alert saying 'petitioners should expect processing delays' due to the 'unprecedented number of parole requests we have received since Fall 2021,' according to the agency's site.

Thousands of migrants who crossed into the U.S. await processing in Eagle Pass, Texas

Over 400,000 migrants that entered the U.S. through the southern border have been paroled

Ukrainians fleeing their home due to war with Russia have also been offered parole

Between fiscal years 2012 and 2019 the max amount of migrants paroled in a year was 112,000, according to TRAC.

In the first ten months of fiscal year 2023, there were over 300,000 individuals paroled.

The Biden administration has used the humanitarian parole provision more than any administration in history.

Republicans, meanwhile, have accused the Biden administration of abusing parole law, and they are seeking to reform it in their ongoing negotiations with the White House over aid to Ukraine.

Sen. James Lankford of Oklahoma called the administration's policy of granting people parole and then giving them work permits 'absurd' in comments to Semafor earlier this month.

'For the last nine months, the administration has literally told anyone in the world that if you'll tell us in advance that you're coming, we'll give you a work permit when you get here,' Lankford told Semafor on Jan. 8. 'That's not humanitarian parole.'

Biden, for his part, told Fox News Friday that the border has not been secure for the 'last 10 years.'
China, Jamaica highlight fruits of bilateral cooperation

Xinhua) 13:36, January 22, 2024

KINGSTON, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Jamaican Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith highlighted fruitful results of bilateral cooperation during their meeting in the Jamaican capital of Kingston on Saturday.

Johnson Smith expressed her pleasure to receive the Chinese foreign minister at Jamaica's new foreign ministry building, one of China's aid projects in the country. Noting that Jamaica is the first English-speaking Caribbean country to support the one-China principle and has since adhered to this position, she said Jamaica is proud of this tradition and will continue to unswervingly stick to the one-China principle.

Johnson Smith said the two countries enjoy solid mutual political trust, highly compatible ideas, mutually beneficial cooperation, and active people-to-people exchanges, yielding fruitful results in their strategic partnership.

She thanked China for providing valuable support to Jamaica's economic development and improvement of people's livelihood, and for helping Jamaica successfully fight the pandemic.

Jamaica values China's experience in governance and has been strengthening economic development planning and striving to eliminate poverty, Johnson Smith said, adding that her country looks forward to expanding bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, economy and trade, agriculture, education, science and technology, while developing a strong strategic partnership between the two countries.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China and Jamaica are geographically far apart, but have a long history of friendly exchanges. It has been 170 years since Chinese migrants first arrived in Jamaica.

Jamaica is one of the first Caribbean countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China and the first Caribbean country to establish a strategic partnership with China. China appreciates the correct decision made by Jamaica, its unwavering friendship with China, and its firm support for China in safeguarding core interests, Wang noted.

Strategic partnership means mutual trust and mutual support. China and Jamaica respect each other and treat each other as equals. Their bilateral relations have achieved a historic leap, and their friendly cooperation has achieved fruitful results, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples, said Wang.

History has proved and will continue to prove that the China-Jamaica friendship is in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries, Wang said, adding that China is willing to continue to support Jamaica in accelerating national development and revitalization, to write a new chapter of the China-Jamaica friendship as well as make new achievements in bilateral win-win cooperation.

Wang stressed that China adheres to the path of peaceful development, practices genuine multilateralism, and promotes the political settlement of hot-spot issues, making it a major country with the best record in peace and security.

In a world lacking fairness and full of injustice, China will always stand on the side of fairness and justice, support the cause of the vast developing countries, in particular small and medium-sized countries. China supports the Caribbean countries in their efforts to unite for development and advance regional integration, Wang said.

China is willing to jointly implement a series of important global initiatives proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping with Caribbean countries, promoting a high-level China-Jamaica comprehensive partnership featuring mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development, he added.

Johnson Smith stated that Jamaica fully agrees with the concept of peaceful diplomacy, highly appreciates China's role as a major country, supports and will actively participate in a series of Chinese global initiatives, and stands ready to make more achievements in the relationship between Caribbean countries and China.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
by O. Del Fabbro

In September 2022, Fiona Hill claimed that with the war in Ukraine, World War III had begun. The statements of the American expert on Russia were clear: World War I and World War II should not be regarded as static and singular moments in history. Even though they were separated by a peaceful period, the latter is part of a whole process leading from one World War to the next. The peaceful period following the Cold War would then be comparable to the interwar period in the 1920s and the 1930s. From Hills processual point of view peaceful periods are as much part of major conflicts as the actual war periods themselves: from the Cold War via a peaceful period to WW III.

Using the concept of World War adequately depends on its definition. When is a World War a World War? If World War means that all or most of the worlds major powers are involved in a conflict, then, yes, it might be that the state of the world is steering towards WW III. Economically, this is already true for the war in Ukraine. Most of the major powers are involved in this conflict, either by supplying Ukraine or Russia: the USA, the European Union, Japan, Canada, Australia are supporting Ukraine, while Iran, North Korea, Belarus, Chechnya, and China ally with Russia. But, to be economically involved does not mean to have boots on the ground. Even current events in the Middle East show that major world powers avoid full scale involvement.

In fact, what we have so far been observing are rather operations in the gray zone.

The gray zone is a space of uncertain threats. Diffuse and hard to attribute, conflicts emerge unexpectedly, making it difficult for attacked parties to react robustly. Often such threats are hybrid: fake news, online troll farms, misinformation, economic blackmail and sabotage, terrorist financing, paramilitary provocations and so on. The aim is often to merely destabilize without necessarily provoking effects of armed conflict. Per definition, the gray zone is thus a space in which defensive and offensive activities happen above the level of cooperation yet below the threshold of full-scale armed conflict.

Concrete examples of hybrid warfare are fake news and foreign electoral interventions used by Russia, economic sanctions used by the European Union against Russia, Iran financing and militarily supplying terrorist groups such as the Houthi rebels, Hamas and Hezbollah, the latter in turn, using paramilitary provocations and even ferocious attacks. Yet, hybrid warfare in the gray zone and full-scale armed conflict are not mutually exclusive. Since its full-scale invasion in Ukraine, Russia has been using as much hybrid warfare as it has been using conventional methods of warfare. The same can be said of the ongoing military operations in the Red Sea between the international US led coalition and the Houthi rebels. In other words, contemporary conflicts are becoming more and more complex, because of different actors being involved using multiple types of weaponry and tactics in order to destabilize enemies or harm them.

However, while military operations become more complex, the division between belligerents seems to become more and more clear-cut and simple: authoritarian regimes versus liberal democracies. The crack between these two camps, that emerged since the war in Ukraine, is widened more by the conflicts in the Middle East  not the other way around. But what does this mean politically? A new world order? And what are the consequences for a possible World War?

The trenches in Eastern Ukraine have been compared to trench warfare in WW I. This might be true. Maybe however, it is more accurate to say that current events are bringing us back to a pre-WW I scenario. The world is returning to a clear separation of major powers, maybe a balance of powers, similar to a European Concert in the 19th century, only that now it is a globally distributed concert. The current wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East then become nothing but proxy wars, wars in the gray zone, allowing the major powers to keep peace within their own designated national boundaries: the USA, the European Union, China, Japan, India, Saudi Arabia, Iran, even Russia, and so on. Nevertheless, caution is advised: as tranquil as balance of powers might sound, it should not calm our minds. If Hills processual perspective is correct, then the consequences of the European Concert are two World Wars within a time span of thirty years, with millions of people dead, genocide included. Indeed, is the current arms race not reminding us of the pre-WW I situation between Prussia, Russia, France, Great Britain, and Japan?

Therefore, we should not trivialize the potential threat of hybrid warfare in the gray zone. It is not just warfare being led geographically at the boundaries between major world powers such as the Middle East or Ukraine. Hybrid threats can target the heart of nation states, emerge at the very core of societies, being particularly harmful for liberal democracies. Liberal democracies are more organic political systems than authoritarian, top-down, hierarchical regimes. The robustness of their political body can easily be threatened by hybrid threats, if citizens of liberal democracies are not aware of and ready to defend the very principles that the political system in which they live builds upon. Hybrid threats such as fake news, misinformation, electoral interventions, economic blackmail and so on help destabilize liberal democracies, if citizens aid in the deconstruction of the democratic political body from within. Hybrid threats, especially the ones based on information and cyber-attacks, are thus fruitful if the target responds with self-harming actions such as voting for pro-Russian politicians, who not only want to ally with authoritarian regimes, but also plan to dismantle democratic mechanisms such as the separation of powers within their own governments, ultimately leading them to become authoritarian regimes themselves. Or, when citizens of liberal democracies defend cruel actions of rape and slaughter of civilians by terrorist organizations such as Hamas in public demonstrations. The right to vote and the right to assemble become futile, if they help instantiating or defend an anti-democratic system that leads to the abolishment of that very right.

This is why hybrid warfare in the gray zone is a powerful weapon for authoritarian regimes to destabilize liberal democracies. But such a weapon is only as efficient as the target is weak. Or, put differently: For hybrid threats to become ineffective in liberal democracies, the latter need to use their most powerful tool: the strength of the autonomy of the individual and its will and belief to not only know and appreciate what it means to live in a liberal democracy, but to be ready to actively defend it  no matter the cost. Liberal democracy is not a consumable good, passively observable. It requires active participation. In the face of hybrid threats in the gray zone, warfare is not something happening out there in cold Ukraine, or in the chaotic Middle East, no, hybrid warfare is occurring in the midst of society on an informational, even ideological level. The threat might be sparked from the outside, but it only spreads if the material from within reacts. Being in the middle of a hybrid war is currently the greatest test for liberal democracies. Are they capable of surviving within this gray zone, at the beginning of what looks like the dawn of WW III?
The conditions are similar to what many communities across the nation are experiencing as frigid temps have consumed the US

Some in Atlanta are getting Deja vu of the 2014 storm that paralyzed Atlanta and left cars stranded on the road

The arctic air that's been a reason behind the US's 'much below normal' temperatures has wreaked havoc overnight in multiple streets throughout Atlanta leading to burst pipes and slippery roads in the Peach Tree's capital.

Crews rushed to Old Chattahoochee Avenue after a water leak supposedly posed a threat to hazardous roads overnight. The leak allegedly occurred from a nearby hardware store.

This icy road's conditions come shortly after a collision at the intersection of Joseph E. Boone and Joseph E. Lowery between a car and a MARTA bus at 1am this morning due to a leak from a broken fire hydrant or water main.

The intersection was shut down after the accidents and salt trucks helped clear the ice. No injuries have been reported, but social media had already been dissing drivers prior to the accidents.

One X (formerly Twitter) user called drivers 'unhinged' and wrote that the MARTA bus was 'being driven like it's a Honda Civic.'

The situation is even reminding some in Atlanta of the 2014 storm that left a dusting of snow, but shut down roads as drivers abandoned their cars and gave up trying to navigate icy conditions.

Crews rushed to Old Chattahoochee Avenue after a water leak supposedly posed a threat to hazardous roads overnight

This water leak occurred shortly after another one on the intersection of Joseph E. Boone and Joseph E. Lowery. The leak led to icy roads and caused a multiple vehicle crashes

Atlanta Driver Iona Flagg told Atlanta News First she tried to break, but the intersection of Joseph E. Boone and Joseph E. Lowery was covered in ice and she slammed into other vehicles that were also involved in the accident.

'My car kept going and going, so I tried to hit my brakes again and then I hit my brakes and sped up and hit another car that was already in the middle of the streets,' she said.

Despite seemingly having no injuries from the crash, Flagg's car was totaled.

The arctic chill in Georgia was part of a series of winter storms throughout the US last weekend, having resulted in the deaths of 82 people in 13 states and emergency management systems being placed in Oregon, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Georgia and temperatures starting tomorrow will be between 53-69 degrees for the rest of the week with no chance of snow.

Social media users on X (formerly Twitter) have discussed today's rainy weather on the platform and even prefer it over snowstorms.

'No problem with rain, hate the cold, thanks for the heat haha,' an X (formerly Twitter) user wrote. Other social media users have wrote about bad traffic and accident alerts.

Iona Flagg, one of the drivers in the intersection crashes, attempted to hit her brakes before hitting other vehicles. Her car was left totaled but she was not injured. Georgia is one of the many areas that suffered from the arctic chill that began last month

The two-inch snowstorm 10 years ago created what officials called 'the commute of nightmares' and the 'rush hour from h***,' leading to then-governor Nathan Deal partially blaming the National Weather Service

This month is not the first January when Atlanta drivers had trouble operating their cars on icy roads.

The two-inch snowstorm 10 years ago created what officials called 'the commute of nightmares' and the 'rush hour from h***.' Then-Governor Nathan Deal partially blamed the National Weather Service for the unexpected storm.

'Some of the local meteorologists were more correct on their predictions, that the storm center might be 50 miles north of where the National Weather Service's modeling had indicated that it would be,' Deal told CNN in 2014.

Like several individuals driving or riding on the Atlanta highway. In 2014, Florida woman Tammy Jocelyn did not have the best experience while she was on her way to a funeral.

'There are hundreds, maybe thousands of motorists with me,' Jocelyn said. 'You look out the window and see people in the middle of the interstate sleeping in their cars.'

By the end of the 2014 winter season, more than 1,200 car crashes occurred because of snowy conditions and some drivers were forced to sleep in convenience stores.

Atlanta's 2017-2018 winter season was also challenging for drivers who were not used to the frigid conditions.

The area had received nearly five inches of snow by January 2018 and resulted in more than 260 car accidents due to winter hazards.
Rishi Sunak was the subject of internet mockery today following the announcement of a new UK Government WhatsApp channel.

Downing Street heralded a new means of providing information - such as announcements on flu jabs or self-assessment tax return deadlines - direct to Britons' mobile phones.

But, in response to the creation of the WhatsApp channel, social media users were quick to mockingly remind the Prime Minister of his past woes with the messaging service.

'Won't they keep deleting the messages?,' asked one, as they highlighted a failure by senior Government figures - including Mr Sunak himself - to hand over their past WhatsApps from the Covid crisis to the official pandemic probe.

In an appearance before the Covid Inquiry last month, the PM admitted his pandemic-era WhatsApps were missing.

This was because he had changed his phone 'multiple times' in recent years and not backed up his messages, Mr Sunak added.

Rishi Sunak was the subject of internet mockery following the announcement of a new UK Government WhatsApp channel

Social media users were quick to mockingly remind the PM of his past woes with the messaging service and his 'missing' WhatsApps from the Covid pandemic

The UK Government's new WhatsApp channel attracted almost 4,000 followers within hours of being announced today

Asked in December if he had any access to the WhatsApps he sent during the crisis, Mr Sunak said: 'No, I don't, I've changed my phone multiple times over the past few years and, as that has happened, the messages have not come across.

'As you said, I'm not a prolific user of WhatsApp in the first instance  primarily communication with my private office and obviously anything that was of significance through those conversations or exchanges would have been recorded officially by my civil servants as one would expect.'

Mr Sunak is not the only senior politician to have struggled to submit their WhatsApps to the Covid Inquiry.

About 5,000 messages, from January to June 2020, on the phone of former PM Boris Johnson were also unavailable.

'I don't know the exact reason, but it looks as though it's something to do with the app going down and then coming up again, but somehow automatically erasing all the things between that date when it went down and the moment when it was last backed up,' Mr Johnson told the inquiry last year.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland's former first minister, was last week revealed to have had all her WhatsApp messages from the Covid crisis deleted.

In response to No10's announcement of the Government's new WhatsApp channel, one Twitter/X user posted: 'Can't see the point in this Government WhatsApp channel. Won't they keep deleting the messages?'

Another asked: 'Erm, is the Prime Minister going to be live-streaming the deleting of all his WhatsApps?'

A third wrote: 'You found all of Rishi's lost messages?'

The UK Government's new WhatsApp channel attracted almost 4,000 followers within hours of being announced today.

The Cabinet Office explained it would 'focus on reiterating important information which is relevant directly to the public in areas like updating on public services, news updates that affect a large part of the population or pointing to new guidance and public resources'.

From tomorrow, followers of the channel will be notified that they can get discounted rail tickets from the 'Great British Rail Sale'.

They can also expect to receive information on extra support like cost-of-living payments, Government-linked discounts or childcare help.

The channel will also be used to share information from organisations such as the UK Health Security Agency.

The Cabinet Office offered a reassurance the channel would not be used for political or campaign purposes and would be managed by officials and not ministers.

Alex Burghart, a minister at the department, said: 'We are always looking for new ways to communicate with the public.

'WhatsApp is a hugely popular platform in the UK so we hope our new and entirely opt-in WhatsApp channel will be a useful way of providing people with updates from the government.

'We're looking forward to seeing how people respond to this service and will develop it over time based on users' feedback.'

The Government appeared to have set up the WhatsApp channel so only six 'default' reactions can be used to respond to messages.

This prevents followers from using emojis such as a middle finger to react to updates.
A woman who was found dead next to the body of a father and his two young daughters is the children's aunt who was visiting from Thailand, a friend has said.

Kanticha Noon, 36, had arrived in the UK on December 27 and was staying at the family home with her sister Nanthaka's husband, Bartlomiej Jakub Kuczynski, and their daughters, seven-year-old Downreuang and Jasmin, 12.

Ms Noon's friend Naty Wathanakul said Nanthaka, the girls mother, was 'shocked and heartbroken' after losing both her children and her sister, and is now believed to be staying with friends.

Nanthaka had been at work in her job as a caretaker in Norwich when the tragedy unfolded, which is 'why she survived.'

Police are investigating after the bodies of Ms Noon, Mr Kuczynski and the girls were found with stab wounds at the property in Costessey, near Norwich, on Friday.

Ms Wathanakul, who had known Ms Noon since primary school, said she had been due to fly home at some point next month.

Kanticha Noon, 36, had arrived in the UK on December 27, her best friend said today

Ms Noon (left) with a friend

Engineer Bartlomiej Kuczynski (right), 45, was found dead with his two daughters and Ms Noon. He is pictured with one of his girls and a woman

She added: 'I know that she was stabbed to her neck several times. That's too cruel She was my close friend. She always helped her friends with everything. Such a caring person, very kind heart.'

Ms Wathanakul said her friend had visited the UK last June and had been hesitant about coming over this month.

READ MORE - Police IGNORED 999 call made by man at home where engineer and his two young daughters, 12 and seven, were found dead Advertisement

She said: 'She didn't want to go to the UK this time for no reason because she went there once or twice a year normally.'

Ms Wathanakul went on to say: 'She loved her nieces, I always saw their pictures together. She is a single woman, no boyfriend, no husband, that's why she spent most of her time with those lovely girls.'

She confirmed that Mr Kuczynski had 'a mental health issue' and that 'he didn't work any more'. She added: 'We don't know the detail.'

And that Ms Noon had run a clothing business with her sister, called Malishopuk on Instagram and Facebook

Ms Wathanakul said her friend had seemed happy in the days before death, joking with her about Nando's chicken and how best to cook steak.

A man called 999 from the property on Allan Bedford Crescent at around 6am on Friday, but police were not dispatched there.

Officers made the discovery about an hour and 15 minutes later after a member of the public alerted them at around 7am.

Norfolk Police, which has referred itself to the police watchdog over the delay, is not looking for anyone else in connection with the tragedy.

In a statement issued today, the force's chief constable Paul Sandford said: 'This is a tragic and horrific incident and my thoughts, and that of the entire constabulary, remain with the family of those involved.

'I'm aware this incident has also caused great upset and shock in Costessey, the wider community and beyond.

'Following the identification of the earlier 999 call, the constabulary referred itself to the IOPC who will now investigate.'

The family were named locally by neighbours who told of their shock at the tragedy (pictured is one of the girls)

Floral tributes left near the house in Costessey near Norwich

He added: 'I know the family and the public will rightly want to know whether there was an ability to prevent this tragedy, and this is a question that must be answered.

'However, at this stage, I cannot answer that question. What I can say is that we will be open and honest in the days, weeks, and months ahead, to get the answers to this question.

'There will, of course, also be an inquest that will review the wider circumstances a surrounding the death and the involvement of the police and other agencies.

'We have thousands of interactions with the public every single day, on the phone and in person. It's only right that when there are questions about our response, they are properly investigated, and I fully support and welcome this scrutiny.

'I will not wait for the outcome of this investigation to review our working practices and that process has started.'

The chief constable added he has asked His Majestys Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services, which is undertaking a routine review of the force at the moment, to consider taking a 'deeper review than the robust inspection already planned'.

Floral tributes, and two unicorn toys, had been left a short distance from the house today.

The items were left by the sign for Stony Grove, a road which joins Allan Bedford Crescent, with the house remaining taped off by police and with a number of marked vehicles still at the scene.

Police manning a cordon at the scene in Costessey, Norfolk, yesterday

One of the tributes said: 'Jasmine, you were such a sweet, caring girl, yourself and your sister didn't deserve to have your lives taken away.

'You would always be smiling in primary school. Fly high beautiful girls.'

Another said: 'You will be missed. I'm sorry to whoever was in the family and is going through it. Sorry Jasmin.'

Matthew Cross, headteacher at Queen's Hill Primary School and Dr Roger Harris at Taverham High School said in a joint statement that extra support was in place for pupils and staff.

'Both our schools have worked closely alongside colleagues from Norfolk County Council's critical incident support team over the weekend to ensure we have extra support and provision in place so we can meet the needs of both our pupils and staff at this difficult time,' they said.

Post-mortem examinations carried out on Sunday found the 45-year-old man died of a stab wound to the neck, while the 36-year-old woman died of a number of stab wounds to the neck.

The bodies of the two girls will be examined on Wednesday.

Detectives said the man and two children lived at the address, but the woman was visiting and lived elsewhere.

All four were found with injuries.

The force had already referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct on Friday over police contact about a missing person inquiry at the address last month.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Burgess, who is leading the investigation, said: 'We remain satisfied no one else was involved in this incident.

'I would like to thank the community for their support and for the many people who have called offering information.

'We continue to work through this and will get back to everyone who has been in touch.

'The police cordon remains in place at the scene and we will continue to have a presence in the area tomorrow.'
A getaway driver for a gunman who shot a rapper dead outside a chicken shop after gang rivalry 'boiled over' is facing a life sentence.

Michael 'Craig' Small, 32, was blasted in the face at point-blank range in Harrow, northwest London, on July 5, 2019.

Mr Small  also known as 'Smallz'  had featured in music videos bragging of shootings and stabbings.

Courtney Marvin Ellis, 37, was behind the wheel of a blue Mini which pulled up next to Mr Small outside the Cottage Chicken and Pizza restaurant on Harrow Road.

An unidentified gunman got out of the vehicle and approached Mr Small before shooting him in the head at point blank range, jurors heard.

Michael 'Craig' Small, 32, was blasted in the face at point-blank range in Harrow, northwest London, on July 5, 2019.

Courtney Ellis (pictured), 38, of Mafeking Avenue, Brentford, was found guilty of the murder of Michael Small, known as Craig, in an apparent escalation of gang tensions. He was also found guilty of attempted murder of a different man and perverting the course of justice

Seven minutes later, Ellis dropped the shooter off by a nearby off licence. The gunman then tried to open fire at a Mercedes containing another musician, Serge Mukendi, but he survived the attack.

Rapper Christopher Kyei, 36, who performs under the stage name 'Skrapz', helped Ellis destroy the blue Mini at a scrapyard.

Ellis denied but was convicted of murder while Kyei denied and was convicted of perverting the course of justice.

Ellis also denied but was convicted of the attempted murder of Mr Mukendi and perverting the course of justice.

He showed no emotion as he was convicted.

Anthony Orchard KC, prosecuting, earlier told the court how the history of 'tit-for-tat' violence between the rival gangs dated back years.

The feud escalated when a gang member was stabbed by rivals after crashing his Porsche on 1 June 2019.

Mr Small, who had featured in the music video 'Bizzy' on YouTube, was shot at point-blank range by a masked gunman wearing dark clothing.

'The shot was fired from less than a metre,' said Mr Orchard. The bullet struck Craig Small on the right cheek.

'It passed horizontally from right to left, passing through the cheek, the base of the brain and back of the skull. It was later recovered from under the skin at the back of his head. He fell to the ground.

'The gunman stepped away from the victim, before moving nearer again and discharging a second shot.

'The second shot appears to have just missed the victim, hitting the nearby pavement, but a fragment from it appears to have struck Mr Small in the left eye.'

The gunman ran off north before getting into the passenger seat of a waiting blue Mini with false registration plates.

The car was caught on CCTV driving a mile and a half towards the Wembley Park tube station before making a second stop on Chalk Hill Road.

Still dressed in black and wearing a face mask the gunman was then caught on camera running from the Mini towards an off-licence on Bridge Road.

'He reached the front of a parked white Mercedes containing a man named Serge Mukendi,' Mr Orchard said.

'The gunman appeared to fire his gun in the direction of the front windscreen of that vehicle.

'The gun was held in the gunman's right hand. Later evidence suggests the gun 'misfired', and no bullet was actually discharged.

'The gunman turned and ran back to the Mini. The blue Mini was driven off,' said Mr Orchard.

The car containing the gunman and one another accomplice then drove to Kingsbury where both occupants left the car.

After removing the false registration plates from the Mini, they were picked up by black Volvo and driven away.

The following day, two men using a flatbed pick-up truck, removed and disposed of the abandoned Mini.

'It is the prosecution case that these offences were not a spontaneous argument on the street, Mr Orchard said.

Christopher Kyei, 36, of Lower Road, Chorleywood, was found guilty of perverting the course of justice at the same trial. Both will be sentenced at the same court on 2 February

'They were carefully planned against a background of gang rivalry which boiled over in the summer of 2019.

'This case is all about gang violence perpetrated by those associated with a gang called the Church Road Soldiers, from the Church Road estate area of NW10.

Prosecution accept Ellis was not the gunman but he was there taking part in a joint enterprise.

'One of those from the Mini, the prosecution suggests, the gunman, is still at large.

'He will be known to Mr Ellis. He has never named him to the police.'

Mr Orchard added: 'Courtney Ellis and Christopher Kyei are associated with the Church Road Soldiers gang. They deny gang membership.'

Ellis drove the Mini and helped dispose of it after the shooting while he and Kyei planned to dispose of the Mini and the gun.

Kyei, of Hertfordshire, denied but was convicted of perverting the course of justice.

Ellis, of Brentford, west London, denied but was convicted of murder, attempted murder and perverting the course of justice.

They will be sentenced on a date to be fixed.
X owner Elon Musk defended the hate speech that it prevalent on his social media platform by alleging that it features less antisemitic content than rivals including TikTok.

Musk made the claims during a conversation with conservative provocateur Ben Shapiro which was held after the pair toured Auschwitz alongside European Jewish Association Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin and Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev.

'The outside audits that we have had done ... show that there is the least amount of antisemitism on X, if you look at all the other social apps,' he told Shapiro.

The conference, hosted by the European Jewish Association, comes after Musk in November repeated a tweet on the theory and declared it the 'actual truth' -- before apologizing.

In his conversation, Musk addressed other concerns around hate speech saying: 'I think at the end of the day, free speech wins,' he said referencing the Community Notes feature which allows users to correct comments.

Musk, holding his son X  A-12 , takes part in a private visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with European Jewish Association Chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Ben Shapiro and Holocaust survivor Gidon Lev

Musk addresses the European Jewish Association's conference, in Krakow after visiting Auschwitz

During his conversation with Ben Shapiro, Musk took aim at DEI-activists, legacy media and TikTok

He also took aim at legacy media outlets.

'Do we want just a handful of people deciding what they think is important? Or should it be that the people decide what's important? And I think...the people decide what's important and what to focus on. Not just a handful of editors,' Musk said.

'Diversity, equity, and inclusion...you should always always be wary of any name that sounds like it could come out of a George Orwell book,' he said to uproarious laughter from Shapiro.

Musk went on to speak about his Jewish friends and the fact that he attended a Hebrew pre-school. The billionaire said that around two thirds of his friends are Jewish and because of this, he was unaware of the prevalence of antisemitism.

'I grew up around a lot of Jewish people, I went to Hebrew preschool -- my name is pretty Jewish." "I went to Israel when I was 13 -- most of my friends are Jewish, sometimes I forget "Am I Jewish?," I'm Jew-ish, aspirationally Jewish.'

Musk touched town in Poland early Monday on a private jet after which he took a Tesla from the airport.

Auschwitz concentration camp was the site where one million Jewish people were slaughtered at the hands of the Nazis. A total of six million Jewish people perished in total in death camps during World War II.

The tech tycoon has also faced accusations of a proliferation of hate speech on X, formerly Twitter, since his $44-billion takeover of the social media site in October 2022.

In the wake of Hamas' barbaric attack on Israel on January 7, the prevalence of antisemitism on the platform has been highlighted.

In December, the Anti-Defamation League said that compared against the same time last year, there had been a 337 percent increase in antisemitic incidents between October and the end of 2023.

Musk reviewing a map alongside Rabbi Menachem

Musk lights a candle during his visit behind a sign echoing the cry: Never Again

Musk pictured alongside Ben Shapiro at the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi German death camp in Oswiecim, Poland

Senior political figures from European countries and Musk will meet in Krakow 'to discuss and find solutions to the astronomical rises in anti-Semitism affecting Europe,' the European Jewish Association said

Musk arrived in Poland in a private jet and took a Tesla car from the airport

NEVER AGAIN means NEVER AGAIN.



Thank you @elonmusk for visiting Auschwitz at such a crucial time for the Jewish people.



Kudos to @benshapiro for accompanying this important visit. pic.twitter.com/syuBApQxQD  Yaakov Langer (@jacklanger) January 22, 2024

Senior political figures from European countries and Musk will meet in Krakow 'to discuss and find solutions to the astronomical rises in anti-Semitism affecting Europe,' the European Jewish Association said.

'This troubling trend' had been escalating since the war in Gaza, it said.

The conflict erupted when Hamas terrorists launched unprecedented October 7 attacks on Israel, resulting in the death of about 1,140 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Militants also seized about 250 hostages during the attacks, around 132 of whom Israel says remain in Gaza.

Israel has responded with a relentless bombardment and ground offensive has killed at least 25,1 05 people, mostly women and children, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Musk was due to speak on a panel at 4:00 pm local time alongside right-wing political commentator Ben Shapiro.

The symposium comes shortly before the 79th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp on January 27, a date that has become Holocaust Memorial Day.

The conference, hosted by the European Jewish Association, comes after Musk in November repeated a tweet on the theory and declared it the 'actual truth' -- before apologizing

Musk has also been accused of contributing to antisemitic conspiracy theories involving liberal philanthropist George Soros

One million European Jews died at the camp build by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland between 1940 and 1945, along with more than 100,000 non-Jews.

A visit to the site of the former death camp is planned for conference participants on Tuesday.

Gidon Lev - The Holocaust survivor and social media star who joined Elon Musk in Auschwitz Gidon Lev pictured talking with Elon Musk on Monday Gidon Lev, 88, is the holocaust survivor and social media star who accompanied Elon Musk on his visit to Auschwitz on January 22. A native of then-Czechoslovakia, most of his family were killed by the Nazis in the Theresienstadt ghetto between 1941 and 1945. Lev was freed by the Russian Red Army in 1945. He was ten years old. Following the end of the war, Lev and his mother immigrated to Canada via the USA. In 1959, he went to live in Israel, starting a farm in the Jezreel Valley. He served in the IDF during the Six-Day War and the War of Attrition in 1967. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Lev brought his message of education regarding the Holocaust to TikTok. On his page, Lev would regularly speak out about Holocaust denial. That same year, Lev demanded an apology for Joe Rogan after the comedian remarked that the coronavirus vaccine mandates were reminiscent of the Holocaust. In the wake of Hamas's attack on October 7, Lev said that he was forced to quit TikTok due to the amount of antisemitic comments he received. 'A Holocaust survivor had to leave TikTok after the worst massacre against the Jews since the Holocaust. Imagine that,' his partner Julie Gray told USA Today. Advertisement

- 'Example to others' -

During a live discussion broadcast on X in September, European Jewish Association chairman Rabbi Menachem Margolin invited Musk to visit Auschwitz.

Margolin said it would be 'a very strong statement' and 'could contribute a lot to Holocaust awareness and the struggle to combat anti-Semitism'.

Musk agreed that it could be 'helpful... as an example to others'.

Elsewhere in the discussion, Musk described himself as 'aspirationally Jewish' and said he had attended Hebrew pre-school.

'It's absurd to be accused of something when all the evidence points the other direction and my entire life story is in fact pro-semitic,' he added at the time.

Musk has threatened to file suit against the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish advocacy group, over its claims that problematic and racist speech has soared on the site since his takeover.

X Corp is also currently suing non-profit Media Matters on the grounds that it has driven away advertisers by portraying the site as rife with anti-Semitic content.

- 'Huge role to play' -

In a November comment on X, Musk called a post 'the actual truth' that said Jewish communities advocated a 'dialectical hatred against whites'.

The post was criticised as echoing a longtime conspiracy theory among White supremacists.

Musk's statement prompted a flood of departures from X of major advertisers and the White House accused him of 'abhorrent promotion' of anti-Semitism.

The social media titan later apologised for what he called 'literally the worst and dumbest post that I've ever done'.

He said it had been misinterpreted and that he had sought to clarify the remark in subsequent posts to the thread.

After the controversy, the SpaceX founder visited Israel but said the trip had been planned earlier and was not an 'apology tour'.

Israel's figurehead President Isaac Herzog told the tech mogul he has 'a huge role to play' to combat anti-Semitism.

'We need to fight it together because on the platforms which you lead, unfortunately, there's a harbouring of a lot of... anti-Semitism,' Herzog said.
Team Trump has called on Haley to drop out of race if she loses New Hampshire

But Mace endorsed Trump: 'The time has come to unite behind our nominee'

Nikki Haley is barnstorming across New Hampshire on Monday, vowing to stay in the GOP presidential race as another lawmaker from her home state endorsed Donald Trump and multiple polls show the former president with a double digit lead.

Haley and Trump found themselves in a one-on-one race for the Republican nomination after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race on Sunday and endorsed Trump.

The former president scored another back on Republican Rep. Nancy Mace endorsed Trump over Haley, who lives in her congressional district and supported her in 2022 against a Trump-backed challenger.

'I don't see eye to eye perfectly with any candidate. And until now I've stayed out of it,' Mace said. 'But the time has come to unite behind our nominee.'

Mace had stayed out of the race while two South Carolina politicians - Haley and Senator Tim Scott - were running. Scott endorsed Trump on Friday night.

Scott will return to the Trump campaign stage on Monday night when he, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and Vivek Ramaswamy appear join Trump at his rally in Laconia, N.H. All three former presidential candidates endorsed Trump when they exited the Republican race.

Nikki Haley is vowing to stay in the Republican presidential race

Haley has insisted she will stay in the race despite pressure from Team Trump to drop out if she loses on Tuesday.

'Yesterday and today, I watched the entire political elite  and yesterday and today, I watched the entire media elite, say I should drop out and endorse Donald Trump,' she said in New Hampshire on Monday.

'Donald Trump won 56,000 out of 3 million voters in Iowa. He got 1.5% of the vote in Iowa.'

Daily Mail relies on video clips to report on Haley 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.

Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller told reporters at Trump's rally in Manchester on Saturday 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.

'There's nowhere for Haley to come. So after President Trump wins on Tuesday, Nikki Haley needs to drop out.'

Donald Trump and his team have called on Nikki Haley to drop out if she loses to him in New Hampshire on Tuesday

Republican Rep. Nancy Mace endorsed Trump over Haley, who lives in her congressional district in South Carolina

Nikki Haley campaigned for Rep. Nancy Mace in the 2022 election when Mace faced a primary challenge from a Trump-backed challenger

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, who has endorsed Haley, on Sunday declined to say whether she intends to continue her campaign if she doesn't win the primary in her home state of South Carolina, which holds the next contest in the GOP nomination process.

'To be honest, not even looking at that right now. I'm looking at the next 72 hours,' he said on NBC's Meet the Press. 'We're going like gangbusters. She's crisscrossing the state. She's hitting every voter. She's going everywhere.'

But when pressed, he simply said: 'That's a month away. I mean, it's really a month away.'

Trump has taken swipes at Haley, touting the support he has from officials in her home state. At his campaign rally in Manchester on Saturday, he brought out South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, the state's lieutenant governor and a slew of other senior officials to show off his support.

'Almost every politician from South Carolina is endorsing me. How do you do that if you're governor?,' Trump said of Haley, who served as governor of the state for six years.

Haley left the governor's job to become Trump's Ambassador to the United Nations when he was president.

Nikki Haley served as Donald Trump's Ambassador to the U.N. - above the two in the Oval Office in October 2019

The former president told Fox News on Monday that he doesn't see how Haley can win the Republican nomination.

'I don't see a path for her at all,' he said of her presidential campaign.

And he said he was 'very upset' with her for running against him after he made her his ambassador to the U.N.

'I would say with Nikki I haven't done anything. I'm very upset with her,' he said. 'She worked for me like two and a half years. She was okay. Not great. She was okay. She said to everybody, in fact, when she left, I would never run against the president.'

South Carolina holds the next primary contest but it's about a month away - on February 24th. Haley has announced she will hold a campaign event in Charleston on Wednesday, the day after New Hampshire's primary.
Then there was one. Though probably not for long.

Ron DeSantis throwing in the towel, which had a certain inevitability given his expensive campaign was going nowhere, leaves Nikki Haley as the only credible challenger to Donald Trump in his bid to recapture the Republican presidential nomination  and even thats stretching the meaning of credible.

Its hard to believe that less than a year ago DeSantis was regarded as the best Republican prospect to defeat Trump. But that was before he gave a masterclass in how not to run a presidential campaign.

From a disastrous, glitch-ridden launch last May on the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, to throwing tens of millions of dollars (perhaps as much as $150 million) at the Iowa caucuses only to come a very poor second to Trump, with countless failed reboots of his campaign in between, DeSantis never had the makings of a winner from the get-go.

What a falling off for the man who was re-elected governor of Florida by a landslide in November 2022 on a night which was generally bad for Republicans.

A challenger who early polls suggested was within striking distance of Trump. A darling of Rupert Murdoch, whose media anointed him DeFuture in the moguls frantic search to find an alternative to The Donald. A man who came to think of himself, as one of his campaign ads indicated, as chosen by God.

Its hard to believe that less than a year ago DeSantis was regarded as the best Republican prospect to defeat Trump. But that was before he gave a masterclass in how not to run a presidential campaign.

What a falling off for the man who was re-elected governor of Florida by a landslide in November 2022. A darling of Rupert Murdoch, whose media anointed him DeFuture in the moguls frantic search to find an alternative to The Donald.

But it soon became apparent he was not being propelled by anything like divine inspiration.

Indeed, as he tried to imprint himself on the national consciousness with the same success as he had in the Sunshine State, it quickly became obvious that he suffered from a rather fatal flaw for someone with presidential ambitions: the more folks saw of him, the less they liked him.

He was wooden in debates and campaign speeches, trotting out his talking points with all the charm and verve of a malfunctioning robot.

Curmudgeonly in media interviews. Awkward when having to press the flesh with mere mortals. Devoid of humor. Lacking warmth. A charisma-free zone without even the merest trace of Reaganesque optimism. A putative commander-in-chief whose grasp of foreign policy was so weak he described Russias invasion of Ukraine as a mere territorial dispute.

No amount of financing could overcome these handicaps. His campaign had effectively stalled since last summer. It became more famous for the raging battles behind closed doors between its leading strategists than for any progress it was making on the ground.

And when DeSantis limped out of Iowa towards certain defeat in New Hampshire, it was clear his days were numbered.

His well-funded political-action committee styled itself Never Back Down. But on Sunday DeSantis did back down, withdrew from the race and threw what political weight he has left (answer: not much) behind Trump, who had long designated him Ron DeSanctimonious.

It doesnt get more humiliating than that.

He was wooden in debates and campaign speeches, trotting out his talking points with all the charm and verve of a malfunctioning robot.

Curmudgeonly in media interviews. Awkward when having to press the flesh with mere mortals. Devoid of humor. Lacking warmth. A charisma-free zone without even the merest trace of Reaganesque optimism. (Pictured: With wife Casey and their children).

Its not just his presidential ambitions that have gone down in flames. So has his political reputation, undermining even his exalted status in Florida.

This could be the ruin of his political career  not just his bid for the presidency.

Of course, hes only 45 and could run again for president in 2028. But for that to end differently than this time, he would need entirely to reinvent his persona and his approach to campaigning on the national stage.

Ive seen no evidence he has the ability to do that. Even as his campaign of 2024 collapsed around him, all he offered was more of the same.

DeSantis  and Haley  are now both in Trumps rearview mirror.

Indeed, I fully expect Haley to go the way of DeSantis after she loses badly to Trump in Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. The latest Boston Globe poll has Trump 19 points ahead of her  and now DeSantis has fallen by the wayside, he could win by even more.

DeSantis was polling a mere 6 per cent in the Granite State, so there are not a lot of his votes to redistribute  but those that are now up for grabs, polling analysis suggests, will split 50:30 in Trumps favour.

The next major contest in the Republican primary race is on February 24 in South Carolina, where Haley was a reasonably popular two-term governor but where she is polling even worse than New Hampshire, with Trump enjoying a 30-point lead.

DeSantis - and Nikki Haley - are now both in Trumps rearview mirror. Indeed, I fully expect Haley to go the way of DeSantis after she loses badly to Trump in Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. The latest Boston Globe poll has Trump 19 points ahead of her - and now DeSantis has fallen by the wayside, he could win by even more.

The next major contest in the Republican primary race is on February 24 in South Carolina, where Haley was a reasonably popular two-term governor but where she is polling even worse than New Hampshire, with Trump enjoying a 30-point lead.

When it eventually dawns on the billionaire donor class currently bankrolling her campaign that she cant even win her home state, then it will be curtains for her.

A bad defeat in New Hampshire means theyll likely pull the plug long before February 24  and Trump will then emerge as the undisputed Republican candidate, well ahead of his aim to clinch the nomination by early March.

In other words, his coronation is all but guaranteed. His eyes are now firmly fixed once more on the White House.

The latest poll in the swing state of Michigan gives him an eight-point lead over President Biden, who actually won the state in 2020  albeit by only three points.

November is still a long way away. But as things currently stand, its not just the Republican nomination for which Trump now looks unstoppable. For good or ill, hes also currently clear favorite to retake the White House.
Downing Street issued a stark warning to Royal Mail today that Saturday deliveries must continue.

The PM's official spokesman insisted the government 'would not countenance' a downgrading of the six-days-a-week letter service despite the firm arguing it is 'not sustainable'.

The rebuke came with Ofcom due to report back this week on its review of the universal service provided by Royal Mail.

There has been speculation that could propose tweaks to the obligations for Saturday post.

Asked about the prospect, No10 said: 'Obviously Ofcom has a role here and is reviewing the future of Royal Mail.

Downing Street issued a stark warning to Royal Mail today that Saturday deliveries must continue (file picture)

'But the Prime Minister's strong view is that Saturday deliveries provide flexibility and convenience that are important for businesses and particularly publishers and the Prime Minister would not countenance seeing Saturday deliveries scrapped.

'So I think we'll see exactly what the outcomes are.

'But given the importance of these deliveries, particularly to businesses, it's not something we would countenance.'

Ofcom has already stressed there will be no concrete proposals at this stage.

The regulator does not have the power to scrap Saturday letter deliveries without action from Parliament, as the Postal Services Act 2011 requires a six-day service.

An Ofcom spokesman said: 'This week we will set out evidence and options on how the universal postal service might need to evolve to more closely meet consumer needs.

'We will be inviting views on this, not consulting on specific proposals.

'It would ultimately be for the UK Government and Parliament to determine whether any changes are needed to the minimum requirements of the universal service.'

Royal Mail's owner International Distributions Services (IDS) revealed at the end of 2022 that it had formally asked the Government to switch from a six-days-a-week letter delivery service to five, covering Monday to Friday, under its Universal Service agreement.

The group said it would look to maintain a seven-day parcel delivery service.

The Royal Mail's universal service obligation (USO) forces it to deliver letters six days a week to all 32 million addresses in the UK for the price of a stamp, no matter where the letters are going.

Royal Mail has urged the Government and Ofcom to review its obligations, given the decline in addressed letter post.

Martin Seidenberg, IDS chief executive, said last week: 'We are doing all we can to transform, but it is simply not sustainable to maintain a delivery network built for 20 billion letters when we are now only delivering seven billion.'

It is also understood that Ofcom's review of the universal service may look at reforms to Royal Mail's delivery targets, the possibility of alternate-day deliveries in line with some other European markets such as Germany and Italy, offering state subsidy to support a six-day service and allowing Royal Mail to increase stamp prices.

Rishi Sunak's official spokesman insisted the government 'would not countenance' a downgrading of the six-days-a-week letter service despite the firm arguing it is 'not sustainable'. The PM is pictured on a visit to Pinewood Studios in Iver today

Mr Seidenberg warned last week in a letter to Liam Byrne, chairman of the business and trade select committee, that it might need financial help unless there are reforms to the service.

He said that unless there are changes, it will have to 'significantly' hike prices or possibly even seek aid from the Government in the form of a subsidy.

A Royal Mail spokesman added: 'We have been consistent in saying the need for reform is urgent to ensure a modern and sustainable universal service.

'We look forward to reviewing the options presented by Ofcom.'
A fire tore through a house in northern Indiana, killing five children and leaving a sixth in treatment Monday for burns.

People, including children, were trapped by flames on the second floor Sunday evening, the South Bend Fire Department said.

Five children were pronounced dead. The sixth was taken to a hospital and later airlifted to one in Indianapolis.

An adult escaped with minor injuries, and a firefighter fell through the second floor, officials said. The firefighter was treated at a hospital and released.

The children ranged in age from 17 months to 11 years, Fire Chief Carl Buchanon told reporters Monday. The 11-year-old remained hospitalized.

A fire tore through a house in northern Indiana, killing five children and leaving a sixth in treatment Monday for burns

An adult escaped with minor injuries, and a firefighter fell through the second floor, officials said. The firefighter was treated at a hospital and released

The fire in South Bend, a city of over 100,000 just south of the Michigan state line, was reported about 6.30pm on Sunday and spread rapidly, partly because of wind, Buchanon said. Crews battled the blaze for about three hours.

The adult who escaped told firefighters how many people were inside and had tried to rescue some but was forced back by heavy smoke and flames, Buchanon said.

The cause of the fire was being investigated.
A New York midwife has been fined for creating false immunization records of roughly 1,500 children and giving them homeopathic pellets instead of vaccines.

Jeanette Breen, who operates Baldwin Midwifery on Long Island, must pay $300,000 after an investigation found she violated the state immunization registry law, according to the New York State Department of Health.

All of the affected children, concerning a period from July 2020 to December 2022, are not allowed to attend school until they have been immunized against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, chickenpox, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and a host of other diseases.

Breen gave her patients a series of homeopathic oral pellets that have not been authorized by the FDA or CDC, rather than giving them jabs. She administered a total of 12,449 phony immunizations to around 1,500 kids.

'Misrepresenting or falsifying vaccine records puts lives in jeopardy and undermines the system that exists to protect public health,' said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.

Jeanette Breen (pictured) was fined $300,000 for violating the New York State immunization registry law

Breen, who operates Baldwin Midwifery (pictured) on Long Island, administered 12,449 fake immunizations to roughly 1,500 school-aged patients according to records from July 2020 and December 2022

The health department said Breen began administering the pellets in September 2019, less than three months after a new state law that ended non-medical exemptions from New York's school vaccine requirements took effect.

In New York State, children attending all schools, including public, private and religious schools, must received the required amount of doses of vaccines to attend.

The health department said all of the affected children must be fully up to date with their required age group immunizations, or in the process of receiving them, before they can return to school.

'By intentionally falsifying immunization records for students, this licensed health care professional not only endangered the health and safety of our school communities but also undermined public trust,' said State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa.

Director of Investigations Joseph Giovannetti said, 'This enforcement action is the culmination of a first-of-its-kind investigation in which the Department's Bureau of Investigations, Division of Legal Affairs, worked with the Department's subject-matter experts to uncover a widespread scheme to falsify required school vaccinations.'

'Anyone involved in immunization fraud is on notice: Rooting out, combating, and preventing all forms of vaccination fraud is a top priority for the Bureau of Investigations, and we will continue to bring enforcement action against any offender who endangers the health of our communities and abuses our public health systems with this type of illegal activity.'

Breen has paid $150,000 of the $300,000 fine and the remainder will be suspended as long as she complies with all other requirements of her agreement.

She must never again administer any immunization that must be reported to the state and is permanently banned from accessing the state's immunization records system.

Breen gave her patients a series of homeopathic oral pellets rather than jabs, then reported to the state the children had received their required vaccinations

According to her website, Breen graduated from Columbia University's Midwifery Program in 1984 and is licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey

Breen's attorney David Eskew told DailyMail.com, 'Suffice it to say, Ms. Breen provided excellent midwifery services for many years to many families, especially on Long Island. She is now toward the end of her career and she is a private person who did not and does not want to seek any publicity.'

'From her perspective, this matter is over, done with, and closed and she is now moving on with her life.'

According to her website, Breen graduated from Columbia University's Midwifery Program in 1984 and is licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey.

The health department said, 'Breen had a history of helping patients try to avoid mandatory immunization. For example, in fall 2017 she wrote a request for exemption on behalf of a patient who was required to be vaccinated under an employer's influenza-vaccination policy.'

They said at the time Breen had only meet the patient once and based the request on an uncomplicated pregnancy.
A man who was 'leaving the pub' plunged to his death down a manhole after its safety barriers were toppled by Storm Isha, according to reports.

The victim, who has not been named, is believed to have suffered a fatal head injury after falling into the hole, which a local said was exposed after the barriers had been blown 'all over the place'.

The man was discovered shortly after 7.15am this morning but is thought to have fallen hours earlier, when winds topping 80mph battered the north of England.

Emergency services were called to Highgate Road, Bradford, responding to 'concern for safety' reports, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

He is among three people who have tragically lost their lives as Storm Isha left a trail of destruction across the UK.

Emergency services were called to Highgate Road in Bradford, West Yorkshire at 7.19am after reports of a 'concern for safety.' But the victim, who has not yet been named, was pronounced dead at the scene

Emergency services were called to Highgate Road, Bradford after a man died by falling through a manhole

Scene of the incident on Highgate Road, Bradford, where a man has died after falling down a manhole near roadworks after barriers were blown over by Storm Isha

In Bradford, a neighbour near where the incident happened said: 'From what I've been told a man was leaving the pub and he's fallen into the hole and banged his head.

'It happened late last night and I think I must have walked past him on my way to work.

'Those holes are much deeper than you think and the barriers are there for a reason.

'But the winds were horrific and had blown them all over the place.

'The winds might have even blown the poor chap into the hole.

'It's heartbreaking to think that he had been there all night.'

Another resident, who was not named, described the tragedy as a 'freak accident'.

In a statement, West Yorkshire Police confirmed: 'At 7.19 this morning officers were called by the ambulance service to reports of a concern for safety at Highgate Road, Queensbury. A man was pronounced dead at the scene.

'The man's death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner in due course.'

Storm Isha has seen winds of up to 100mph sweep the UK, crushing cars under falling trees, ripped roofs off buildings and leabing 70,000 properties without power.

Shocking images show a tree felled by the storm on Gristhrope Road, in the Selly Oak area of Birmingham

In Scotland, an 84-year-old man was killed after a Hyundai car crashed into a fallen tree on the A905, Beancross Road in Grangemouth at around 11.45pm last night.

Police said he was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other occupants of the vehicle were not injured.

In Northern Ireland a man in his 60s has died in a road collision involving two vans and a fallen tree in Limavady, Co Londonderry, on Sunday night, the Police Service of Northern Ireland has said.

The man in the second van, a Citreon Berlingo, has been taken to hospital for treatment.
A sexual assault complaint filed last year against French film legend Gerald Depardieu dating back to 2007 was past the statute of limitations, prosecutors said Monday.

Depardieu, 75, has been charged with rape in another case and has been accused of sexual harassment and assault by more than a dozen women, allegations he denies.

The criminal complaint from actor Helene Darras, who said Depardieu groped and propositioned her during a 2007 film shoot, was dropped late last month, the Paris prosecutors' office told AFP.

Neither Darras nor Depardieu's lawyers were immediately available for comment when approached by France's AFP news agency.

Darras had already spoken to investigators in 2022 and news site Mediapart before filing her complaint in September, she told AFP last month.

Gerald Depardieu, 75, has been charged with rape in another case and has been accused of sexual harassment and assault by more than a dozen women, allegations he denies

The criminal complaint from actor Helene Darras (pictured), who said Depardieu groped and propositioned her during a 2007 film shoot, was dropped late last month, the Paris prosecutors' office told AFP.

'It took me a year to go from talking about what happened to the criminal complaint,' she said at the time.

'Walking through the door of a police station, telling an officer someone touched your intimate parts, it's not easy, you need time to think about it,' she added.

But she had 'wanted to respond to the defence that plays down our allegations by saying they're 'just' witness accounts,' Darras said.

In an interview with broadcaster France 2, she accused Depardieu of touching her hips and buttocks and inviting her into his dressing room.

She also accused him of continuing even after she refused.

Depardieu was in 2020 charged with rape and sexual assault after another actor, Charlotte Arnould, filed her own complaint over allegations dating to 2018.

There is CCTV footage of Depardieu performing a sex act on Arnould at his Paris mansion in August 2018, but he insists it was consensual.

Ms Arnould renounced her legal right to anonymity at the end of 2021, following Depardieu being charged with rape and sexual assault.

Arnould's lawyer has also asked Paris prosecutors to investigate a recording of Depardieu making derogatory comments about women during a filming trip to North Korea, which was later passed to France 2.

In a separate case, Spanish journalist and author Ruth Baza said that she had filed a criminal complaint in Spain against Depardieu last month, claiming he raped her nearly three decades ago in Paris.

The complaint has little hope of leading to charges due to the statute of limitations in France, but Baza said she decided to go ahead anyway in the hope that it would 'help other people' to do the same.

A feminist activist holds a placard reading 'On the victims' side, not of the side of the perpetrators' during a demonstration, in front of the courthouse of nantes, western France, on January 11 after Macron commented on the Depardieu case

The president last month said Depardieu should enjoy the presumption of innocence, calling him an 'immense actor' who 'makes France proud' and saying he was now the victim of a 'manhunt'. Pictured: Feminist protesters in France, January 11, hold #MeToo signs

Repeated allegations of sexual violence against Depardieu have become a culture-war frontline in France.

The accusations have divided the world of cinema, pitting feminist groups against the actor's defenders - including President Emmanuel Macron.

The president last month said Depardieu should enjoy the presumption of innocence, calling him an 'immense actor' who 'makes France proud' and saying he was now the victim of a 'manhunt'.

'If every time someone accuses you of the worst and you have a public role, you can no longer do anything, it is the air of suspicion, it is no longer a democracy. We are no longer free citizens,' Macron said, in comments that sparked anger.

Mr Macron has also said Depardieu should not be stripped of his Legion d'Honneur - France's highest civilian award - because 'it is not a moral tool'.

This is despite Rima Abdul Malak, Mr Macron's own Culture Minister, saying Depardieu had 'brought shame of France' with his all-round sexist behaviour, and should not retain the Legion d'Honneur.

Macron more recently allowed that he had not 'said enough how important the words of women who are victims of this violence are'.

Within a few days of his indictment, Depardieu was back working on the Paris location of the police drama Maigret And The Dead Girl, in which he starred with Jade Labeste.

In October, he broke his silence over claims that he is a serial sex abuser saying: 'I am neither a rapist nor a predator.'

Accusing enemies of subjecting him to a 'lynching' in the media, he expressed his anger in an open letter in Le Figaro newspaper.

French actress Charlotte Arnould (pictured) went public with her accusation that Depardieu, 74, raped her in his Paris mansion. Ms Arnould, 33, renounced her legal right to anonymity at the end of 2021, to protest at how long the investigation is taking

The Charlotte Arnould case is currently making its way through the French courts after an attempt by Depardieu's counsel to get the charges overturned was overruled.

Accusations against Depardieu follow a series of MeToo complaints against powerful men in the Paris arts establishment who are said to have raped or otherwise abused young women working as models and actresses.

Such scandals have led to demonstrations by women's groups at high-profile showbusiness events, as they call for female actors to stop working with allegedly abusive men.

In 2017, President Macron withdrew the Legion of Honour from Harvey Weinstein after a series of accusations of sexual harassment and rape which eventually saw the Hollywood mogul imprisoned.
She died on January 13 after a host of complications related to the procedure

Whilst flying home she became seriously unwell and was hospitalised in Serbia

The heartbroken mother of a 20-year-old British woman who died after a botched weight-loss operation in Turkey says she found out 'too late' her daughter had flown out to have surgery.

Erin Gibson revealed she had a 'sinking feeling' in her stomach after finding out Morgan Ribeiro had flown out of the country to have a 2,500 gastric sleeve operation after years of being bullied for her weight.

The mother-of-five said she had heard 'horror stories' about medical procedures taking place in Turkey, but was unable to stop her 'beautiful' daughter from travelling to get it done as she didn't want to be placed 'on an NHS waiting list for years.'

Now Ms Gibson has called for more government intervention to educate people about the dangers of foreign cosmetic surgeries, saying she 'never wants this to happen to another daughter'.

Morgan, who had flown to Turkey with her boyfriend, posted a tragic TikTok days before the operation saying: 'My last post before weight loss surgery - see you on the other side.'

The procedure took place on January 5 and three days later she was given the all-clear to fly home with her boyfriend James Brewster, 19, however on their return flight to Gatwick, Morgan became seriously ill and went into septic shock.

After the plane made an emergency landing in Serbia, it emerged that Morgan's small intestine had been cut during the gastric sleeve procedure, leading to an infection.

In a last post on TikTok prior to her operation, Morgan told her friends she'd see them on the other side

Morgan Ribeiro, 20, had flown to Turkey with her boyfriend for a 2,500 gastric sleeve operation earlier this month

She reportedly didn't want to be placed 'on an NHS waiting list for years.'

During the operation, surgeons removed over 10cm of her small intestine but tragically Morgan suffered a heart attack on January 9 and was placed in an induced coma - dying four days later in a hospital in Belgrade.

Morgan's family say they had not known about her planned operation until just days before she was due to fly out and were concerned by the risks.

Her sister, 26-year-old Kayleigh Ribeiro had begged her not to go through with the surgery which carries a number of complicating health risks.

Her mother Erin Gibson, 44, is now fundraising 10,000 to repatriate her body and has spoken publicly about her grief.

Speaking to the Independent, the mother-of-five said: 'Growing up she was bullied a lot, she's always battled with her weight and been a bigger girl and she had a really rough time with it.

'I told her she was beautiful inside and out, she really was a beautiful girl.

'By the time I found out it was too late, she was already on the plane. I had that sinking feeling because I'd heard horror stories about Turkey.

'I never ever want this to happen to another daughter. I don't want her life to be in vain.'

In advance of the procedure, Morgan had had a virtual consultation with the Turkish company in September 2023 before booking the January operation.

Her boyfriend James claims that hospital staff and translators speaking to her did not mention the dangers associated with the operation prior to Morgan going under the knife.

The organisation that connected Morgan with the Turkish surgeon has denied any wrongdoing

Following her operation on their Wizz Air flight home, he recalled that Morgan was 'really hot and in a lot of pain.'

He explained: 'The flight attendant gave her some ice and water and she was finding it hard to breathe so they took her to the front of the plane where there was more space, they tried to give her an oxygen mask.

'I could tell something was seriously wrong.'

Morgan's family say they had not known about her planned operation until just days before she was due to fly out and were concerned by the risks

In advance of the procedure, Morgan had had a virtual consultation with the Turkish company in September 2023 before booking the January operation

Morgan's boyfriend, James Brewster (pictured together) claims that hospital staff and translators speaking to her did not mention the dangers associated with the operation

A fundraiser in Morgan's memory reads: 'She was loving, she was an artist, a drama queen, just like me, and she was beautiful inside and out,' her mother said.

'She was outgoing, silly, friendly and loving. She loved singing and caring for others - and she worked closely with children.'

A Wizz Air spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that during a flight from Istanbul to London Gatwick we made a diversion to Belgrade due to a passenger requiring medical assistance.

'The health and safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority, and in this instance the passenger was disembarked from the aircraft to seek urgent medical attention.

'We're incredibly saddened to hear of the passenger passing away following their medical treatment and our thoughts remain with their family at this time.'

A government spokesman said: 'We are supporting the family of a British woman who died in Belgrade and are in contact with the local authorities.

'We urge anyone considering a medical procedure abroad to review our travel advice and the relevant guidance from the NHS and other professional bodies.'

Morgan's tragic death comes days after a 26-year-old mother-of-three died days after a Brazilian bum-lift operation in Turkey.

Demi Agoglia of Salford, Greater Manchester, is said to have become ill despite doctors initially declaring her surgery last Thursday was successful.

The 26-year-old, who had a seven-month-old baby boy, first said she felt unwell just hours before she was due to return to Manchester, The Sun reported.

The young woman was taken into intensive care but was tragically pronounced dead on Monday.

She had flown to Turkey having already had dental work which was botched as well as another surgery.

Young mother Demi Agoglia, 26, has also died this year after surgery in Turkey

Her devastated brother Carl, 37, said Ms Agoglia's family and partner had tried to convince her not to go through with the bum-lift as they were concerned for her safety.

The father-of-four said: 'It is tragic what happened. We are just in shock. She went to Istanbul to have it done.

'She had previously gone to have her teeth done. No one wanted her to go out and have it done but she is one of those people.

'Her partner is still out there and his dad has just flown out there to be with him.

'If anyone is thinking of flying to Turkey for an operation I would say don't do it! Even her boyfriend didn't want her to do it. But she is 26 and has her own mind. Her mum didn't want her to go out either.'

The risks of foreign cosmetic surgeries are well known.

Last year, Norfolk's senior coroner Jacqueline Lake wrote to the then Health Minister Steve Barclay of her concerns that people are unaware of the risks of having cosmetic surgery overseas.

Melissa Kerr, 31, who was 'conscious about her appearance', travelled to a private hospital in Istanbul for the procedure, Ms Lake said.

But the psychological wellbeing practitioner, of Denton, Norfolk, was only given 'limited information regarding the risks and mortality rate' associated with it.

Ms Kerr, who had a breast enlargement operation a decade earlier without complications, died at the Medicana Kadikoy hospital on the day of the butt lift - which sees fat harvested from elsewhere on the body and injected into the buttocks - on November 19, 2022.

Melissa Kerr, 31, of Gorleston, Norfolk, was on holiday in Istanbul when she had the procedure

Pictured is Ms Kerr and her partner Skye Birch. Kerr's relatives listened to the inquest remotely

She died after injected fat entered a vein before moving and blocking her pulmonary artery, with her cause of death recorded as a pulmonary thromboembolism, Ms Lake said.

Consultant plastic surgeon Simon Withey, who was asked to view evidence in the case and prepare a report for Ms Kerr's inquest as an expert witness, said the death rate associated with Brazilian butt lifts is 'likely to be in excess of one in 4,000'.

He said it is 'quite possible' that, if the risk of the procedure had been explained to Ms Kerr 'before she was financially committed to proceed, she would not have done'.

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Number of Brits needing hospital treatment after getting cosmetic surgery abroad DOUBLES in three years amid booming popularity of Turkey's cosmetic clinics

By John Ely Senior Health reporter for MailOnline

Cut-price overseas butt lifts, tummy tucks and 'mommy makeovers' in Turkey are landing more and more Brits in hospital, a new audit warns.

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) found 324 Brits have needed medical treatment or corrective surgery after having gone under the knife overseas since 2018.

This has surged 94 per cent in three years, the organisation claimed, as increasing numbers of Brits seek to look more like their celebrity idols.

Turkey was the largest source of botched ops, BAAPS figures suggested.

Almost 80 per cent of Brits who needed corrective ops in the last year were treated originally in surgical tourism hubs like Istanbul and Ankara.

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons analysed 324 cases of Brits needing medical treatment or corrective surgery after having gone under the knife overseas since 2018

Other big surgical destinations for Brits included the Czech Republic and Lithuania, according to BAAPS.

Brits who head abroad for cut-price surgery are coming home with life-threatening infections, implants bursting through the skin and blood clots.

Some are even returning with antibiotic-resistant bugs, medics warned.

Such bacteria are known to leap between patients in hospital settings, triggering potentially fatal infections.

An estimated 12,000 Brits are killed by drug-resistant bacteria every year.

Procedures to treat botched cosmetic ops cost the NHS millions of pounds each year.

READ MORE: I am a consultant plastic surgeon and this is why you should NEVER follow the celebrity trend and go to Turkey for a cut-price 'mommy makeover' As a consultant plastic surgeon working in the NHS in Belfast, and a spokesman for the British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), Alastair Brown has seen first-hand the life-changing and potentially fatal consequences of travelling abroad for budget surgery Advertisement

BAAPS estimates the average cost to the health service of treating a Brit botched overseas is about 15,000, putting the total bill since 2018 at about 4.8million.

This bill represents the cost of resources like medication and dressings, as well as the time surgeons and other NHS staff must spend on such cases.

While the 15,000 figure is an average, surgeons have previously told this website more serious cases can cost upwards of 100,000 to the taxpayer.

BAAPS's president Marc Pacifico said the audit only includes surgeons who are members of the charity, and therefore, are an underestimate of the issue.

'We are only scratching the surface of the true number needing treatment on an already-stretched health service with a record-high waiting list,' he said.

Mr Pacifico said BAPPS is in discussion with regulators and governments, both here in the UK and abroad to try and reduce the number of botched overseas surgeries.

'We're not trying to stop this, we're in no position to and nor is this what we're aiming for,' he said.

'We're aiming to try and raise awareness, increase safety, ultimately protect patients but also relieve the burden on the NHS.'

He said one of these discussions is about advs promoting surgery overseas, with too many Brits lured to places like Turkey thinking they can go under the knife and enjoy a holiday in the sun at the same time.

'Nothing could be further from the truth,' Mr Pacifico warned.

He added:' Medical advice and support for people looking to go abroad is drowned and dwarfed by the number of paid promotions and glossy advertisements for the cosmetic tourism market itself'.

MailOnline has previously warned about so-called 'all inclusive' package deals that offer Brits weighing up surgery luxury hotels, VIP airport transfers and more to sweeten the deal as well as discounts on multiple operations.

BAAPS audit of the 324 cases where Brits required treatment doesn't include information on outcomes, such as if patients made a full recovery or suffered life-long injuries.

Liposuction that offers to remove up to 15 litres of fat, BBL's, eye colour changing laser treatments and hymenoplasties are all offered in clinics across Turkey

But at least 25 Brits are known to have died following medical procedures in Turkey since January 2019, according to Government data.

Price isn't the only factor driving Brits to seek cosmetic surgery overseas.

British surgeons have previously warned this website that Turkish clinics will also perform procedures on Brits who 'should never have gone under the knife'.

Such cases can be because Brits are too fat or have other health conditions that make them more likely to suffer dangerous complications post-surgery.

Turkish clinics have also been known to offer extreme procedures like mega-liposuction, which are not offered in the UK due to the risks to the patient.
Ministers should delay plans to send Channel migrants to Rwanda because it is too soon to say if it is safe, the House of Lords heard today as peers geared up to battle the Government over a new law.

Labour former attorney general Lord Goldsmith today tabled a motion seeking to delay the treaty underpinning the Safety of Rwanda Bill - adding a fresh obstacle to the government's plans.

Addressing peers at the start of what could be months of to-and-fro in the upper chamber he said that all the new safeguards in the revised treaty should be fully implemented and working before it is passed.

Goldsmith, the chairman of the Lords International Agreements Committee, said there were 10 areas of the treaty that need 'additional legal and practical steps'.

'The difficulty is that the Government has already presented a Bill to Parliament asking it to make a judgment that Rwanda is safe now,' he said.

'And yet on the Home Secretary's own evidence it cannot be so because the measures are not in place and have not been shown to be effective...

'The Government should therefore abide by its usual practice of satisfying Parliament that all measures are in place before ratifying. That is why the committee has recommended that ratification should not take place until certain conditions are met.

Labour former attorney general Lord Goldsmith today tabled a motion seeking to delay the treaty underpinning the Safety of Rwanda Bill - adding a fresh obstacle to the government's plans.

Peers are gearing up for battle with Rishi Sunak (pictured) today as they attempt to stop the new Rwanda Treaty being ratified

The Upper House (pictured at the state opening in November) is set to start scrutinising the law at the end of the month, but the process will not be complete until at least mid-March

'We consider the Government should return to Parliament when it believes the treaty is ready for implementation.'

The move comes despite the PM delivering a stark warning that the unelected House must not 'frustrate the will of the people' after Rwanda legislation was passed by the Commons.

The UK agreed the treaty with Kigali in December, saying it addressed concerns raised by the Supreme Court about the possibility of asylum seekers deported to Rwanda then being transferred to a country where they could be at risk.

The agreement underpins the legislation designed to get deportation flights up and running by Mr Sunak's Spring deadline.

However, a report by the Lords International Agreements Committee recommended that Parliament should not ratify the treaty until ministers can show the country is safe.

It insisted safeguards are 'incomplete' and must be implemented before the deal can be endorsed.

The debate will give Mr Sunak a first indication of the level of resistance to his flagship policy in the Lords.

The Rwanda Bill was approved by the Commons last week despite major revolts from Tory MPs who demanded it was made tougher.

As it was introduced to the Lords on Thursday there were shouts of 'shame' from the red benches.

The Upper House is set to start scrutinising the law at the end of the month, but the process will not be complete until at least mid-March.

Downing Street is likely to face attempts by peers to introduce a range of amendments to the proposed legislation.

Over the weekend Mr Sunak was warned by a former Tory Cabinet minister to tone down threats to peers.

Nicky Morgan, now a Conservative peer, on told the BBC: 'The last prime minister who used the 'will of the people' language - it wasn't a happy precedent.'
Furious Ryanair passengers have lamented 28 hours of hell after their flight from Dublin to Edinburgh was diverted to Cologne.

Travellers attempting to cross the Irish Sea with the airline on Sunday night saw themselves landing in Belgium as Storm Isha battered Britain with gusts of 90mph.

Passengers have slammed their 'horrendous' experience and said they were 'treated like homeless' people as they slept on the floor of the airport before finally arriving in the Scottish capital this afternoon.

Other flights by the airline were also forced away from their intended destination, with some passengers forced to wrap up in foil blankets and sleep on camping beds at an airport terminal in France after being stranded without hotels.

Many planes were grounded overnight, with flights bound for Britain and Ireland forced to divert to mainland Europe instead, leaving some passengers branding the experience 'the worst in 32 years of flying'.

People on other flights remarked their attempts to land being thwarted by the storm meant it felt like they were on a 'rodeo bull', with one aircraft taking 11 hours to travel from Manchester to Dublin - due to having to detour to Paris.

Has YOUR Ryanair flight been affected? Email matthew.lodge@mailonline.co.uk

Grainne O'Malley, from Knock in Ireland, had two flights cancelled and a third diverted to Cologne in her efforts to get to Edinburgh last night. Pictured: Ms O'Malley at Edinburgh Airport on Monday

Couple William (left) and Stacey Sneddon (right) spent 28 hours trying to get home to Edinburgh after their flights were cancelled and diverted during Storm Isha

Dave Balaney and Anita Tennant (pictured) called the experience the 'worst in 32 years of flying'

The Ryanair flight from Dublin to Edinburgh ended up being diverted to Cologne due to Storm Isha

Passengers had to spend the night at Tille Airport after their flight from Faro was diverted

One passenger's flight to Birmingham was delayed several times yesterday amid the travel chaos

One passenger shared a photo of a medical assistant helping a 'distressed' passenger after several aborted landing attempts near Prestwick, Scotland

In Edinburgh, passengers who were meant to arrive on Sunday revealed they had been stranded in an airport in Belgium overnight.

Anita Tennant from Dublin and David Balaney from Edinburgh said: 'We had to go to Cologne, it was awful, the worst in 32 years of flying for me.

'We spent a couple of hours staying in the airport, we were lucky we managed to get a hotel.

'I was surprised that we took off as it was the same in Dublin, up in the air you were grand but coming in to land was shocking.

'It was better than last night, it was bumpy but it's good to be back.'

Grainne O'Malley, 28, from Knock in Ireland had two flights cancelled before ending up on one that finally took off in Sunday night - only to end up in Cologne instead.

'It was horrendous, I travelled from north west of Ireland to Dublin to fly,' he said.

'Terrible things happen in three's but I didn't think I'd end up stranded in Germany.

'I got nothing, we got told to go to Ryanair desk and it didn't open until 6am. In fairness they sorted out people with children but even then they were an hour or two.

'Imagine - 4am in Germany, we were all left sleeping on the ground of the airport, it was horrendous, nobody from customer service told us anything.

'They could've said look get your own hotel instead we were treated like homeless.

'I was only trying to get over to see friends, can't wait to get to my friends house and have a hot water bottle and go straight to bed.'

South Africans William and Stacey Sneddon, who live in Edinburgh, were happy to get back home.

They said: 'I don't know why I'm smiling, we've been travelling for 28 hours. We're just so happy to be home.'

An angry passenger took to social media to report of pop-up beds being set up

Furious Ryanair passengers complained of being left stranded after their flights were delayed, cancelled or diverted

The couple's flight to Edinburgh had been delayed for seven hours before taking off, only for the pilot to abort the landing in the Scottish capital.

'Pilot did well to try and attempt to land but aborting landing made more sense,' they said.

'Even though it wasn't where we wanted to go, the attempted landing was so horrific. We were delighted to get on solid ground.

'Everyone wanted to get home, maybe we shouldn't have taken off.

'I went and just got a hotel myself, there were so many people so I just went and found a hotel myself and got a sleep for three hours.

'We were fortunate to be able to just get our own hotel as they were prioritising children and families which is fair enough.'

Among those hit by the air chaos was filmmaker David Cassidy, whose flight from Manchester to Dublin - a journey that normally takes an hour and a half - ended up having to go via Paris.

His Ryanair flight had attempted to land at Dublin, but the high winds turned the plane into a 'rodeo bull', according to the 56-year-old, and they were forced to abort.

However, in the meantime so many flights had been diverted to Manchester that there was no space for them to return, so the aircraft was flown to Paris instead.

Mr Cassidy told the Telegraph: 'I haven't had travel sickness since I was a little kid, and it all just came back. I was sitting there sweating and just feeling really, really bad.'

Passengers on the flight were told they could get off at Paris or attempt another flight to Dublin, but were warned if it failed they would have to go to Cologne.

Thankfully for everyone on board - apart from three who decided to stay in France - the flight did land successfully late on Sunday night.

Other passengers slammed the airline for its lack of communication, with many claiming they were left stranded for 'hours on end' at airports overseas.

Others claimed families with young children were left waiting 'all night' after the airline cancelled their flight and diverted them to another airport.

A busy terminal at London Heathrow as passengers face delays to the storm and bad weather today

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport because of their flights being cancelled due to Storm Isha

Two passengers had to spend the night at Tille airport after their flight from Faro to EMA was diverted

It comes as Storm Isha's 100mph gales and heavy downpours have barrelled down on the nation overnight, causing more travel disruption on the ground.

One frustrated customer posted photos of camping beds set up by Ryanair in a French airport terminal, alongside the caption: '@Ryanair this is your excuse for overnight accommodation when a flight is rerouted. Absolutely disgraceful.'

Another told MailOnline they were stuck on a 'boiling hot plane' for more than two hours after their flight from Milan to Manchester was diverted and landed at Stansted.

'We were kept on the plane for over two hours with no information, and no amenities,' they said. 'Cups of boiling water were served to anyone who asked for water, the plane was stifling, there were children and babies trapped on board a boiling hot plane.'

They added: 'Families with children didn't have car seats for taxis/buses. People were all over the floors trying to sleep, fights broke out and police were called. No offer of anything to eat or drink by staff even for families with very young children and people with health conditions.

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'Solo travellers and females travelling alone were visibly crying and staff could not have cared less. People clearly struggling with anxiety and stress and no support given.

'The storm was no one's fault but the customer service received from Ryanair was disgusting. The airport at Stansted was like scenes I have never seen, people lying on any free floor space for hours on end.'

Flightradar data shows how a Ryanair flight from Tenerife bound for Dublin was diverted to France, while another plane headed for Scotland was rerouted to Germany as winds struck the country.

A passenger told MailOnline they have been stuck at Dublin Airport since 9.30am yesterday.

'Our 11.40am flight - yesterday - was finally cancelled around 7am this morning,' they said. 'We have two children with their granny at home in North London.

'We saw disabled people stranded and in distress and young families sleeping at the airport all night. The kids looked frightened and the only form of compensation we've got from Ryanair is 4 voucher.'

Another passenger told MailOnline they were dehydrated and struggling to breathe while stuck on a Ryanair flight that was meant to land in Dublin but instead diverted to Manchester.

'The anxiety was awful, passengers were crying, wailing they were frantic!' they said.

'We couldn't breathe, we were all dehydrated, exhausted and so confused why we were being HELD in the plane and not allowed to get off.'

Another shared a photo of a medical assistant helping a 'distressed' passenger after several aborted landing attempts near Prestwick, Scotland.

One man told how his flight has been pushed back over 18 hours so far due to Storm Isha - comparing the scenes at the airport to a 'zoo'.

Michael Pope, 49, was left 'stranded' overnight in Dublin as strong winds and rain caused his flight to become severely delayed.

The software engineer, who lives in Amsterdam, booked his flight through Ryanair and has been left frustrated with the airline's assistance.

According to Mr Pope, his flight disappeared off the board at one point. He also claimed that two flights with the same number, both going to Amsterdam, were reportedly being listed at two different times with different gates.

'It's like a zoo, as nobody knows what's going on,' Mr Pope said.

Another passenger told MailOnline they were waiting for their flight at Birmingham for nearly 12 hours yesterday.

'My flight to Birmingham was delayed several times yesterday. I arrived at the airport at around 12.30 and was advised to leave around 22.15 it was chaotic,' he said.

'There was a distressed breastfeeding woman whose baby was in Manchester trying to access a breast pump. I tried to support her to access medical help. She was offered a flight [..] too far away from her home destination.'

They added: 'A flight to Birmingham actually left earlier in the evening with seats free. I tried to get on it but was turned away.'

Other irritated passengers took to social media to share their travel nightmares, with one writing on X: '@Ryanair thank you for leaving all the Tenerife South passengers stranded at Cologne airport last night. You promised hotels. You delivered nothing. And the thing is you don't care. Stranded families with you[ng] kids. Older passengers stranded. Useless #Ryanair useless.'

Another added: 'Cancelled flight from Newquay. You've put us... (31) on a bus to Stansted for 6hrs only to leave us stranded at the airport, there are families with very young children just waiting around all night. It's NOT ok @Ryanair.'

A third wrote: 'Stranded in Glasgow airport no @Ryanair staff to fly us home after being diverted from Dublin airport yesterday. No communication whatsoever from Ryanair.'

Other X users shared memes in response to the diversions, with one writing: 'Flew from Manchester to Dublin today, only we didn't land in Dublin, or back to Manchester. Bonjour from Paris!'

A spokesperson for Ryanair told MailOnline: 'Due to Storm Isha, some flights to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday and today have regrettably been cancelled/delayed.

'We are working hard to reaccommodate affected passengers and advise all passengers due to travel to/from the UK or Ireland today to check their Ryanair app for the latest updates on their flight.

'Ryanair sincerely apologises to all passengers affected by these storm-related disruptions, which are entirely beyond our control and have impacted all airlines operating to/from the UK and Ireland yesterday.'

Passengers were left stranded 500 miles away from their intended destination after their Manchester to Dublin flight was forced to divert to Paris as the storm rolled in on Sunday.

The flight, which was initially due to land at Dublin International Airport at around 3.30pm, was already delayed by an hour when leaving Manchester Airport on Sunday afternoon.

Many discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK

Many Brits discovered their flights have been cancelled or diverted as Storm Isha batters the UK, with one plane heading to Dublin ending up in Paris

A plane heading to Dublin from Manchester took 11 hours and flew in a circle. It circled Dublin, then diverted to Belfast, before heading back and landing in Liverpool. Normally it is a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin

One passenger told MailOnline they have been stuck at Dublin Airport (pictured) since 9.30am yesterday

The passenger said: 'We saw disabled people stranded and in distress and young families sleeping at the airport all night'

Furious passengers shared their Ryanair travel nightmares on social media

However, due to 'dangerous' winds, the plane was forced to circle over the Irish Sea multiple times before aborting its landing and instead flying to Paris Beauvais-Tille Airport, landing shortly before 5.30pm.

Dublin International Airport had already issued a public warning about possible flight cancellations, delays and a stream of aborted landings, with numerous other flights diverting to Manchester and other airports across the country.

Two hours later, at 7.30pm, one passenger on board the Ryanair flight said those on board were still stuck on the runway in Paris.

A flight from Copenhagen to Dublin was also diverted to Manchester yesterday.

It took off at 5:15pm last night, circled near Dublin before being diverted to Belfast and headed back to Manchester - but actually landed at the John Lennon Airport in Liverpool instead.

According to Flightradar, this took 11 hours. It is normally a one hour flight from Manchester to Dublin.

Another passenger who boarded a flight at Edinburgh yesterday for a one hour flight to Bristol said she ended up in Paris.

Kim Woodcock, 67, and the other passengers waited on the tarmac for four hours and those with a passport eventually went to hotels.

But those who didn't - around 50 - had to sleep in the departure lounge instead.

They were given a tuna sandwich each and a bottle of water but no hot food or drinks.

Ms Woodcock spent the night sleeping on the floor, using her bag as a pillow.

She told MailOnline: 'I'm exhausted, it's been really difficult. I was hoping to be home at 5pm last night for a roast dinner!'

Hundreds of travellers wait in Leeds Bradford Airport after their flights were cancelled

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats

Many travellers were left waiting with piles of luggage for their flights at Heathrow Airport

She said she is still currently waiting in Paris for a return flight to the UK, expected to depart this afternoon.

Despite the disruption, many found the funny side of things and very soon hundreds of memes about the odd destinations of the flights were circulating on social media.

The 100mph gales and heavy downpours barrelled down on the nation overnight, with many flights trying to come into the country facing a shaky landing.

A flight travelling from Sharm El Sheikh to Glasgow Airport declared an emergency due to Storm Isha.

A spokesperson for Glasgow Airport said the TUI flight was 'diverted to Manchester due to current weather conditions'.

A British Airways flight on its way from Ibiza to London City Airport was among the scores of passenger aircraft which were forced to divert as winds of up to 90mph hit the UK.

Nervous passengers erupted into applause after their diverted plane made a shaky landing during powerful winds.

A holidaymaker shared a video on X showing the bumpy ride as the plane came into land at Gatwick, before the cabin erupted into applause and cheers for the captain, with one grateful passenger heard shouting 'Go on geezer!'

There was also applause for the captain of an Alicante to Edinburgh flight, who managed to land their Jet2 plane despite dramatic crosswinds.

Travel chaos also hit Scotland amid 'tornado watch' warnings and amber weather alerts, with luggage filmed being blown across the runway at Edinburgh Airport.

A number of other flights were forced to divert to other airports due to Storm Isha winds on Sunday, with a haul of other flights cancelled from UK airports, including Manchester.

But some travellers were furious when Ryanair revealed its overnight accommodation plans for them.

Crowds gathered in Dublin airport after flights were cancelled due to Storm Isha last night, which saw flights diverted away from Ireland

Posting a photo and video on X, one customer said: 'This is your excuse for overnight accommodation when a flight is rerouted. Absolutely disgraceful.'

A large hall with a metal roof housed rows of camping beds with yellow foil blankets for people to sleep on.

Meanwhile in Bristol Airport, travellers who were forced to sleep on-site were pictured lying next to floor heating vents to stay warm.

Others slept on waiting room chairs wrapped in coats and hats.

An Easyjet flight which took off from Edinburgh yesterday afternoon circled Bristol 'for some time' before the pilot was forced to change route and land in Paris instead.

Tom Shepard, 39, told BristolLive that he and the other passengers had to wait on the tarmac for three hours while staff debated whether to try and fly back to Bristol to see if the wind had lessened.

He said: 'We though the pilot was joking at first. We couldn't believe there was no other airport in the UK that we could land at.'

Another flight which was coming from Lanzarote to Dublin was diverted, ending up in Bordeaux, France instead.

Stranded passengers were left fuming in Cologne Airport, Germany, when four flights to Edinburgh were diverted due to the storm.

One person posted on X that they had been promised hotel rooms but were left sleeping on the floor.

A number of Edinburgh-bound flights were forced to divert to Germany's Cologne Bonn Airport - over 550 miles away.

A total of 10 flights bound for Glasgow Airport diverted to airports including Glasgow Prestwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Liverpool and London Stansted on Sunday.

This morning a rare red warning came into effect for Scotland, with alerts that some areas could see wind speeds of 100mph causing a 'danger to life'.

The Met Office is warning people not to go outside and to shelter in place as the storm brings life-threatening winds, with the potential for flying debris and roofs blown off.

Andy Giles was due to fly from Newquay, Cornwall, to Faro in Portugal on Sunday afternoon.

But Mr Giles, from Looe, Cornwall, said: 'The flight was diverted to Stansted because of the weather.

'We were told to jump on a bus to go to Stansted to catch the plane up.

'Six-and-half hours later and we arrived at Stansted at 12.15am this morning and we are still waiting.

'We're still here. We've been here all night with no sleep because they said if you go to sleep and miss the email, you miss the flight and you won't get there.

Mr Giles, who is working in Portugal, said 31 passengers chose to travel to Stansted but some people went home rather than face the long bus trip.

He said they were given food vouchers at Newquay which were not redeemable at Stansted.

Travellers were forced to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets in Tille

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, spent the night in Tille Aiport

Joshua Ely, 32, and his mother Michelle Buckby, 49, had to spend the night sleeping on metal chairs with foil blankets after their Ryanair flight from Faro to East Midlands Airport (EMA) was diverted to Tille, France.

Their flight spent half-an-hour hovering over EMA before it was diverted to Tille because it was too dangerous to try to land.

The warehouse team leader, from Leicester, told MailOnline: 'When we got to Faro Airport we had a weather alert from Ryanair saying there was bad weather at home but we didn't expect it to be as bad as this.

'We were in the air for about four hours and when we got to Tille at 10pm it was a bit of a shambles. The airport didn't have enough camp beds, so my mother and I had to sleep on metal chairs and it was freezing, so we got no sleep.

'The airport was handing out bottles of water but my mother and I had to share one between two of us.'

Mr Ely and Ms Buckby finally landed at EMA this morning, roughly 16 hours after they left Faro.

He said: 'I wish they had just left us in Faro so we could spend an extra night there because now I've had no sleep. I've had to pay for an Uber home because my husband couldn't pick us up at the airport and I've had to take today off work.'

The passengers were given free boarding cards for the flight, but Mr Ely claims he hasn't received any messages from Ryanair about further compensation passengers might expect to receive.

In a statement, Ryanair said: 'The mother and son had flown to the Algarve for a long weekend and the holiday was Mr Ely's Christmas present to his mother. He said: 'Overall, the holiday was lovely just didn't have a very nice end to it!'

Many found the funny side of things and posted memes to social media

At Leeds Bradford Airport, three departing flights have been cancelled today and some are delayed by over six hours.

Winds reached 50mph overnight in the city, but are expected to drop to 40mph later today.

The Met Office has weather warnings in place covering the entirety of Britain heading into early Monday morning.

The most serious of these is a rare red warning for wind, which is in place in northern Scotland between 1am and 5am, as meteorologists predict gusts of 90 to 100mph.

The warning covers Thurso and Wick to the north, Fraserburgh and Peterhead to the east and goes as far west as Cromarty and Nairn.

The Met Office said there winds would bring a 'risk of damage, disruption and a danger to life', with flying debris, large waves and beach material being thrown onto coastal roads, sea fronts and homes.

There could be damage to buildings and homes, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down, as well as power cuts affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage.

Amber warnings for wind cover most of the rest of Britain, aside from London and East Anglia, where a yellow warning is place.
These are the 25-year-old twin sisters who were shot dead by their father in their home along with their mother and younger sister.

Halema and Zahia Kassem, 25, were killed yesterday morning along with their 53-year-old mother Majeda and 24-year-old sister Hanan in their home in Tinley Park, a Chicago suburb.

Police are interviewing their father, Maher Kassem, but have not yet filed charges. Halema Kassem was a pharmacy student who ran a henna business that she promoted on social media.

Halema and Zahia Kassem, 25, were killed yesterday in their home in Tinley Park along with their mother and younger sister

Zahia was a radiology student who friends described as 'outspoken' and 'lighthearted'.

Friends say the family were devout Muslims who and Palestinian activists. Zahia, who also went by Zee, had recently visited Mecca.

Their mother Majeda devoted her life to 'family and religion', according to a fundraising site dedicated to completing a mosque in Mali in the family's memory.

Hanan, 24, was a speech pathology student, according to her friends.

'She was always a helping hand and had her special way of making people feel like they belong. She was always so thoughtful and considerate with her supportive words.

'Her heart held a special place for her family, and she will be deeply missed,' a friend said in the mosque fundraising effort.

No details have been made public about their father, Maher, who remains in custody.

Friends of Halema, Zahia, Hannan and Majeda Kassem who were killed on Sunday, bring flowers and candles to the side of Kassem's house, on Monday January 22, 2024

The family home in Tinley Park, near Chicago, was surrounded by police yesterday

A 911 call was made from the home where the shooting took place but by the time emergency services were on the scene the four women were dead

Majeda is described as a 'mother-of-six'. In addition to her four daughters, she also has two sons who were not harmed.

Police were called to the house by the father on Sunday morning. He first told operators that his wife 'had been shot', but did not immediately confess.

When officers arrived, they found him in the home with the women's bodies.

His motive remains unclear.

Police say they had never been called to the house in the past. Neighbors were stunned by the quadruple murder.
This is the moment flag-waving Chinese tourists demand a piano player stops filming in London's St Pancras station before police tell him not to publish the video.

Brendan Kavanagh, who regularly takes to the station to play boogie woogie tunes, was livestreaming on Youtube when he was approached by a woman from the tourist group.

She told him she was working for Chinese TV and asked whether they were in view of his camera and then followed up saying that 'wasn't allowed'.

The tourists, who were wearing red scarfs, gathered around the pianist, who repeatedly explained to them that he was allowed to film since they were in a public place. 'We are in Great Britain, we are not in China,' he added.

The situation soon escalated after Mr Kavanagh was accused of 'trying to touch' one of the female tourists after he seemingly pointed to the Chinese flag she was holding.

Brendan Kavanagh (pictured at the piano), who regularly takes to the station to play boogie woogie tunes, was livestreaming on Youtube when he was approached by a woman from the tourist group

The woman (pictured) told him she was working for Chinese TV and asked whether they were in view of his camera and then followed up saying that 'wasn't allowed'

A male member of the group, who was the most vocal in his complaints against being filmed, suddenly started screaming: 'Why are you touching her? Stop touching her. Don't touch her.'

He added: 'You are not the same age, do not touch her.' The woman intervened and said: 'Don't shoot him, don't shoot him. What's the problem?'

Mr Kavanagh, seemingly confused after being shouted at, defended himself by saying he only touched the flag.

The piano player repeatedly pointed to the small red flags with five yellow stars, which he claimed were communist flags.

One of the tourists said that Mr Kavanagh should 'educate' himself, as the flag is not a flag for the communist party - which would portray a yellow hammer and sickle instead of the five stars.

The woman the pianist allegedly touched said she was 'here to celebrate the new year' and didn't want to be filmed doing so.

The pair repeatedly accused Mr Kavanagh of not 'respecting their right' by filming them, but the piano player again pointed out that he is allowed to film them as there is no expectation of privacy in a public place in the UK.

A bystander also intervened and told the tourists to leave if they didn't like being filmed.

Finally, a pair of police officers approached the group. One tourist said to the male officer that Mr Kavanagh filmed them and they asked him to remove the footage, but he refused.

'You're in a public place,' the policeman explained repeatedly - until the female officer chimed in and said to the cameraperson: 'Excuse me, if we're having a police matter, you need to put that phone down.'

Mr Kavanagh then addressed his viewers as the officers took the tourists aside. He said: 'The Chinese communist party told us not to film here.'

The tourists, who were wearing red scarfs, gathered around the pianist, who repeatedly explained to them that he was allowed to film since they were in a public place. 'We are in Great Britain, we are not in China,' he added

The situation soon escalated after Mr Kavanagh was accused of 'trying to touch' one of the female tourists after he seemingly pointed to the Chinese flag she was holding. One of the tourists shouted at him, which the pianist met with a confused look (pictured here)

Afterwards, the policewoman warned him: 'This is not to go on your channel by the way, this is me talking to you.' But Mr Kavanagh interrupted and said: 'Listen, we're in Britain, we're in a public space, it's a free country.'

The officer added: 'The matter is, they say you've been making communist comments at them,' but Mr Kavanagh denied this and added that he only said they were waving communists flags.

She also asked him about the allegation that he tried to touch one of the tourists, which the pianist denied. He said: 'I was not trying to touch her, that's why I have a camera.'

'They [the tourists] have requested that the video where they approach gets deleted and is not used on your channel [...] They work for a company and their faces cannot be shown on TV or on somebody's channel,' she told Mr Kavanagh.

Eventually the tourists and police officers moved one, leaving Mr Kavanagh to finish his livestream with more boogie woogie songs after declaring: 'Free speech prevails.'

In a follow up video today, the Youtube star claimed that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) 'are trying to get [the footage] taken down'.

MailOnline has contacted British Transport Police for comment.
Former Harvard President Larry Summers slammed the university for appointing a Jewish professor who has been accused of hatred against Jews as the head of its newly formed Presidential Task Force on Combating Antisemitism.

On Sunday, Summers wrote on X that he has 'lost confidence in the determination and ability of the Harvard Corporation and Harvard leadership to maintain Harvard as a place where Jews and Israelis can flourish.'

Derek Penslar, a professor of Jewish history, was appointed the co-chair of the board, which was announced in the wake of the dissolution of the university's advisory committee on anti-Semitism.

Penslar has previously written that 'veins of hatred run through Jewish civilization,' and Israel's 'dispossession of of Palestinians from their land and oppression of those who remain have made it one of the most disliked countries on the planet.'

The new task force will, in theory, work to combat the ongoing anti-Semitism on Harvard's campus in the wake of the October 7 terror attacks in Israel.

Former Harvard President Larry Summers says he has completely lost faith in the institution's ability to protect its Jewish and Israeli students

Harvard students returned to campus this week after a month long break to find hostage posters had been vandalized with conspiracy theories and slurs

Summers, who served as the university's president from 2001 to 2006, has been openly critical of the school's response to vicious anti-Semitism directed at its Jewish and Israeli students over the last few months.

Days following the barbaric attacks by Hamas, Summers wrote that he was 'sickened' by the administration's lack of response to a letter signed by more than 30 student groups blaming Israel for the terror.

'The silence from Harvard's leadership, so far, coupled with a vocal and widely reported student groups' statement blaming Israel solely, has allowed Harvard to appear at best neutral towards acts of terror against the Jewish state of Israel,' he wrote on October 9.

'In nearly 50 years of affiliation, I have never been as disillusioned and alienated as I am today.'

He was especially critical of then-university president Claudine Gay, who would eventually be forced out of her position for, among other things, her repeated failure to appropriately handle the raging anti-Semitism on her campus.

Gay's failure to urgently disavow the letter was disturbing to some students, faculty, and alumni - some of whom publicly cut financial ties with the elite university.

When Gay resigned earlier this month following dozens of accusations of plagiarism and a disastrous appearance before Congress, during which she failed to wholly condemn calls for genocide of the Jews on Harvard's campus, Penslar came to her defense.

In an interview, he claimed Gay's ousting was an instance of the relationship between 'Jews and blacks' failing.

'With so many reasons for Jews and Blacks to work together, it is tragic to see these kinds of wedges driven between them,' he said.

'The problems are real. But outsiders took a very real problem and proceeded to exaggerate its scope,' he said of anti-Semitism on Harvard's campus.

Jewish History professor Derek Penslar was appointed co-chair of the new anti-Semitism prevention task force. He has espoused multiple anti-Israel, anti-Zionist, and some have argued anti-Semitic ideology in his scholarship

After Fridays new anti-Semitism task force announcement, I have lost confidence in the determination and ability of the Harvard Corporation and Harvard leadership to maintain Harvard as a place where Jews and Israelis can flourish.



The previously touted advisory committee has  Lawrence H. Summers (@LHSummers) January 21, 2024

Palestinian supporters gathered at Harvard University to show their support for Gaza, and their hatred for Israel, at a rally in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on October 14

Shortly after Penslar was announced by interim Harvard President Alan Garber on Friday as the co-chair of the task force, Summers responded by pointing out why the professor's academic beliefs should bar him from serving in such a position.

'Prof Penslar has publicly minimized Harvards anti-Semitism problem, rejected the definition used by the US government in recent years of anti-Semitism as too broad, invoked the need for the concept of settler colonialism in analyzing Israel, referred to Israel as an apartheid state and more,' wrote Summers.

'While he does not support [Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions] he has made clear that he sees it as a reasonable position.'

In a statement announcing the new initiative, which is being paired with a similar task force erected for the purpose of eradicating Islamophobia on campus, Garber said:

'Reports of Antisemitic and Islamophobic acts on our campus have grown, and the sense of belonging among these groups has been undermined. We need to understand why and how that is happening - and what more we might do to prevent it.'

To that end, Summers questioned the decision to appoint Penslar to the task force when he has himself espoused many of the view points that current Jewish students are touting as anti-Semitic.

'Could one imagine Harvard appointing as head of anti-racism task force someone who had minimized the racism problem or who had argued against federal anti-racism efforts?

'This is yet another example of a double standard between anti-Semitism and other forms of prejudice,' he wrote.

Penslar, among other things, signed a letter in August 2023 - a mere two months before the Palestinian terror attack - that labeled the Israeli government a 'regime of apartheid' that is guilty of 'Jewish supremacism.'

The letter, organized by a group called Academics4Peace, was signed by nearly 3,000 other people and accused the Jewish state of trying to 'ethnically cleanse all territories under Israeli rule of their Palestinian population.'

Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman also took aim at Penslar's appointment.

On X he wrote, '@Harvard continues on its path to darkness,' in response to a post about Penslar's problematic appointment.
Most claims involved duplicated blots, bands, and plots in images of data

Academics claimed 57 papers by four of its top staff contained falsified data

Four Harvard University professors have been accused of authoring dozens of scientific papers with sloppy or outright falsified data.

The scientists are top staff at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which is affiliated with Harvard Medical School, and all are members of the university's faculty.

Academics who poured over their published papers claimed to find evidence of falsified data in 57 articles from 1999 to 2017, mostly in doctored images.

DFCI asked academic journals to retract six of the papers and correct 31 others, with 17 more of the claims still to be fully investigated. Three were found not to need any corrections.

The institute's research integrity officer, Barrett Rollins, said it was yet to be determined whether misconduct occurred.

This image is allegedly one of numerous examples of blots, bands, and plots copied and pasted to show a certain result in 57 articles by top Dana-Farber Cancer Institute staff

Three of the papers were co-authored by DFCI president Laurie Glimcher, though she was one of the last credited on all of them

Another claimed data duplication on a paper co-authored by Dr Glimcher

Data falsification claims against the four scientists is the latest scandal for Harvard after its president Claudine Gay was forced to resign over plagiarism in several of her old academic papers.

Many of the discrepancies with the data involved images where blots, bands, and plots were allegedly copied and pasted to show a certain result.

Three of the papers were co-authored by DFCI president Laurie Glimcher, though she was one of the last credited on all of them.

Merely being on the list of authors does not mean she, or any of the others, participated in, or even knew about, the allegedly questionable data.

Another 12 papers by chief operating officer William Hahn, and 10 by director of the clinical investigator research program, Irene Ghobrial contained 'data forgery'.

A further 16 were by Kenneth Anderson, program director of the Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, including five co-authored by both Dr Anderson and Dr Ghobrial.

Two images of mice are allegedly the same despite being 15 days apart in an image of data in a paper

That paper was co-authored by Kenneth Anderson, program director of the Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center at DFCI, along with 15 other papers

Dr Laurie co-authored several papers, one of which was accused of having dodgy data, with Claudio Hetz, a disgraced neuroscientist.

An investigation by his university accused Hetz of 'recklessness, negligence, and a problematic attitude to research ethics'.

Sholto David, an analytical scientist in Cardiff, Wales, spotted the problematic papers using artificial intelligence image analysis software ImageTwin and his own eyes as he poured over the data.

He called the alleged data forgery 'pathetically amateurish and excessive' in a detailed analysis on his blog earlier this month.

David also wrote that three papers co-authored by Dr Anderson were retracted in 2010 due to a mix-up in the cell lines.

'We only see the tiny tip of the fraud iceberg  image data duplications, the last resort of a failed scientist after every other trick failed to provide the desired result,' he wrote.

Highlighted data images are claimed to be duplicated in another paper by DFCI staff

That paper was co-authored by director of the DFCI's clinical investigator research program, Irene Ghobrial, along with nine others allegedly containing 'data forgery'

Dr Rollins said the DFCI was also investigating many other papers by its staff, and that it already knew about many of the claims before David's blog post.

He said the institute would not reveal specific details of the investigation or any misconduct findings, in line with its policies.

Such investigations took a long time because reporting of alleged academic maleficence was dramatically rising.

'The frequency of these allegations has gone into some sort of hyper-exponential phase. Our individuals or workforce to evaluate these have not increased,' he told the Harvard Crimson.

DFCI spokeswoman Ellen Berlin said the presence of image discrepancies in a paper was not evidence of an author's intent to deceive.

'That conclusion can only be drawn after a careful, fact-based examination which is an integral part of our response,' she said.

'We are committed to a culture of accountability and integrity. Every inquiry about research integrity is examined fully.

'Our efforts are focused on locating and examining the original data, and taking the appropriate corrective actions.'
Bombshell divorce documents that could upend the election subversion case against Donald Trump in Georgia are set to be released after being dramatically unsealed by a judge.

Fani Willis, the Fulton County District Attorney who charged Trump, faces accusations of an inappropriate relationship with Nathan Wade, the prosecutor she hired to pursue the case against the former president.

Unsealing Wade's divorce case means Willis now faces more secrets of her ties to him being spilled.

The affair allegations threaten to derail the election case, which charges Trump and 18 allies with working to overturn his 2020 election loss in Georgia.

Willis has defended hiring Wade, who has little prosecutorial experience, to handle the case against Trump, but has not directly denied a romantic relationship.

Trump and others have seized on the allegations of an affair - and Wade's qualifications as a prosecutor.

A judge on Monday ordered court records to be made public in the divorce involving a special prosecutor hired in the election case against Donald Trump who is accused of having an affair with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis

This booking photo provided by Fulton County Sheriff's Office, shows former President Donald Trump on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, after he surrendered and was booked at the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta. Trump is accused by District Attorney Fani Willis of scheming to subvert the will of Georgia voters

Judge Henry Thompson ordered the unsealing of Wade's divorce case in a brief hearing at Cobb County Superior Court in Georgia.

The judge put off a final decision on whether Willis will have to sit for questioning in the divorce case.

He also delayed a deposition the District Attorney had been scheduled to give on Tuesday.

The divorce case is between Nathan Wade and his estranged wife of 26 years, Jocelyn Wade, who alleges her husband had an inappropriate relationship with Willis.

In response Willis has accused Jocelyn Wade of trying to obstruct the criminal case against Trump by seeking to question her in the couple's divorce proceedings.

Judge Thompson ordered that the divorce documents be released after a request by Andrea Dyer Hastings, an attorney for Jocelyn Wade.

Hastings has already filed court documents showing that Nathan Wade bought plane tickets in Willis' name.

There 'appears to be no reasonable explanation for their travels apart from a romantic relationship,' Hastings said.

The judge put off a final decision on whether Willis will have to sit for questioning in the divorce case, but delayed her deposition that had been scheduled for Tuesday

Fulton DA Fani Willis (center) confers with prosecutor Nathan Wade during a hearing at the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta on Friday, July 1, 2022

Andrea Dyer Hastings, attorney for Joycelyn Wade, wife of prosecutor Nathan Wade speaks during a hearing to determine if a subpoena issued to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis should be enforced at Cobb County Superior Court, on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024

Judge Thompson said he cannot rule on whether Willis should have to sit for a deposition in the divorce case until after Nathan Wade himself is questioned later this month.

Hastings wrote in court papers filed Friday that Nathan Wade has taken trips to San Francisco and Napa Valley, Florida, Belize, Panama and Australia and has taken Caribbean cruises since filing for divorce.

Willis 'was an intended travel partner for at least some of these trips as indicated by flights he purchased for her to accompany him,' it was alleged.

The filing includes credit card statements that show Nathan Wade - after he had been hired as special prosecutor in the Trump case - bought plane tickets in October 2022 for him and Willis to travel to Miami, and bought tickets in April to San Francisco in their names.

Superior Court Judge Henry Thompson listens to arguments during a hearing to determine if a subpoena issued to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis should be enforced at Cobb County Superior Court on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Marietta, Ga

Willis has defended her hiring of Wade , who has little prosecutorial experience, and has not directly denied a romantic relationship

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis arrives at a press conference with prosecutor Nathan Wade after a Grand Jury brought back indictments against former president Donald Trump and his allies in their attempt to overturn the state's 2020 election results, in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. August 14, 2023

Rudolph Giuliani is one of 19 defendants, including former US President Donald J. Trump, accused by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis of plotting to ignore the will of Georgia voters in order to keep Trump in office

The Georgia election case is one of four cases Trump is facing as he vies to return to the White House.

Prosecutors are using a racketeering statute normally associated with mobsters to accuse the former president, lawyers and other aides of a 'criminal enterprise' to keep him in power.

Four people have already pleaded guilty in the Georgia election case after reaching deals with prosecutors.

The remaining 15, including Trump and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, have pleaded not guilty.

Trump has denied any wrongdoing and called the charges politically motivated.
He and his family were travelling in a motorhome

The Barefoot Investor has revealed how his family's 'trip of a lifetime' through Europe almost ended in disaster following a close call in their motorhome.

Scott Pape, his wife Liz and their four young children spent almost four months travelling through Europe in a motorhome in late 2022.

After three days in the Swiss Alps, the family set off on a six-hour drive to Italy which they expected to comprise mostly of 'dark tunnels'.

However, Mr Pape said they appeared to be driving towards a steep cliff face.

'After about half an hour driving up what seemed to be a gigantic mountain, I nervously turned to Liz and said, 'The tunnels... they'll come soon right?' he wrote.

'Ummm,' she said, starting to bite her lower lip.

'Our kids picked up on the tension in the cabin, and dutifully pressed 'go'.'

Mr Pape said the motorhome quickly descended into chaos.

Scott Pape and his wife Liz (pictured) suffered a close call in a motorhome in the Swiss Alps

The family had arrived at a 'dark tunnel' in the Swiss Alps (pictured) before disaster struck

'My five-year-old, who'd been quiet for the entire morning, suddenly announced she was feeling dizzy (altitude sickness) and began chundering into a chip packet.'

'And then as we approached the top of the highest mountain peak it happened.

'There's a tunnel up ahead,' I cried to Liz.

'A bright red road sign above the tunnel read: 'WARNING: LOW TUNNEL 3.2 METRES.'

And that was a problem, because the sticker on my windscreen read:

'WARNING: MOTORHOME HEIGHT 3.5 METRES.'

'And so there we were, on the top of the Swiss Alps, literally on a cliff face, on a road so narrow you couldn't turn a Vespa, let alone a 3.5-metre-high FIAT motorhome.'

The couple were forced to think fast after confronting a dark tunnel in their motorhome (stock)

Mr Pape said he quickly hit the hazard lights, brought the vehicle to a gentle stop and told his children - who are all aged 10 and under - to stop screaming.

'Then I looked in my side mirror. There were now at least 25 cars banked up behind me, tooting and repeatedly yelling 'FICK DICH!' at me,' he continued.

'It's in pressure cooker moments like these that you work out the sort of husband, father and leader you really are.

READ MORE: Barefoot Investor reveals how Aussies can earn $6,000 in an hour Advertisement

'So I took a deep breath, turned to Liz and said: 'Get out.'

Liz walked through the dark tunnel to double-check if the motorhome would fit before returning and giving her husband the thumbs up.

'And so, with the cabin now dead silent, we crept through the centre of the tunnel - missing the top of the roof by no more than Peter Dutton's fringe,' he wrote.

Mr Pape said they made it through safely and were able to make the best memories in 'tiny' Italian villages.

'You see, Italy is very rancho relaxo. They work to live, not the other way around (like we do),' he said.

'All the shops close down at lunchtime and everyone goes home for a few hours to relax and spend time with their family.

'And then in the evenings the old people gather in the town square and play cards, talk, and enjoy a vino while all around them their kids, grandkids and great-grandkids play.'

Mr Pape offers independent advice on personal money management, investing, and gaining financial freedom via his website, column and public appearances.

The father-of-four describes himself as a 'country bloke from the bush who enjoys helping people take control of their own money'.

His book, the Barefoot Investor, was a commercial success and a best-seller in 2016.
Surveillance video showing accused murderer Fotis Dulos and his alleged accomplice Michelle Troconis 'disposing of bloodied items' has been played in court.

Luxury real estate developer Fotis was charged with brutally killing his 50-year-old wife Jennifer Dulos in her home on May 24, 2019, before binning objects with the help of Venezuelan socialite Troconis.

Fotis killed himself aged 52 in January 2020, leaving Troconis, now 49, to face the music alone. Jurors were shown the surveillance footage on day seven of her trial at Stamford Superior Court.

The clips appear to show Fotis traveling in his Raptor on the day of Jennifer's disappearance, before dipping out of his car several times to throw an unidentified object into multiple trash cans in Hartford, CT.

Prosecutors say the woman shown momentarily emerging from Fotis Dulos' car in the surveillance footage is Michelle Troconis, who is on trial for helping him dispose of evidence

Surveillance video showing accused murderer Fotis Dulos and his alleged accomplice Michelle Troconis 'disposing of bloodied items' has been played in court

Luxury real estate developer Fotis was charged with brutally killing his 50-year-old wife Jennifer Dulos in her home on May 24, 2019, before binning bloodied items with the help of Venezuelan socialite Troconis. (Pictured: Michelle Troconis in court on day seven of her trial)

Jennifer Dulos (left) vanished on May 24, 2019, amid a divorce from her husband Fotis (right), who was later charged with her murder. Fotis killed himself in January 2020, leaving his new lover Michelle Troconis to face trial alone for allegedly helping him conceal the killing

Michelle Troconis (left) and Fotis Dulos (right) were living together in his Farmington CT home at the time of his ex-wife Jennifer's disappearance on May 24, 2019

According to police, the pair disposed of 30 bags of items that day, and Jennifer's blood was detected on some of the objects found in the trash cans.

Another video showed Fotis tossing license plates into a curbside trash container as a woman who police say is Troconis momentarily left the vehicle.

She appears to look at or retrieve something from the sidewalk near a sewer grate, before both parties got back in the truck and drove away.

Prosecutors claim that Fotis killed Jennifer in her New Canaan property after she returned from dropping their five children at school, who were then aged between eight and 13. Her body was never found.

Troconis denies charges connected to her allegedly helping him conceal the crime - including conspiracy to commit murder, evidence tampering and hindering prosecution.

The trial began January 11 and it is expected to continue for six weeks before jurors are sent out for deliberations.

Another video released today show Dulos throw out a trash bag in a garbage can on Albany Avenue. Michelle Troconis is seen leaning out of the car and wiping her hand on the ground. The video doesn't show her dump anything. @News12CT pic.twitter.com/ueuBuhj0Ka  Marissa Alter (@MarissaAlter) August 24, 2020

Troconis linking arms with her father as she arrived at Stamford Superior Court on Monday

One of the clips shown to court on Monday appeared to show Fotis tossing licence plates into a curbside trash container as a woman who Police say is Troconis momentarily left the vehicle

Troconis (back left) denies charges connected to her allegedly helping him conceal the crime - including conspiracy to commit murder, evidence tampering and hindering prosecution

Troconis (back left) was dating Fotis Dulos at the time of Jennifer's disappearance in 2019

Troconis lived with her daughter Nicole and Dulos at his Farmington, CT home at the time Jennifer vanished in May 2019

Troconis wore large sunglasses as she arrived at Stamford Superior Court on Monday

Troconis appeared expressionless as she approached the Connecticut criminal courthouse

Troconis inside the courtroom on day seven of her trial at Stamford Superior Court, CT

Troconis looks at court documents on her laptop as a member of her legal team stands behind

Troconis has been listening to a Spanish translation of the hearings through earphones

The defendant has had several relatives accompany her to the courtroom each day

Troconis standing as jurors enter for the start of her hearing on day seven of the trial

Troconis' trial started on January 11 and it is expected to last six weeks, wrapping up around March 1

Jurors previously heard from several Connecticut detectives on the case, and the Dulos family's nanny Lauren Almeida.

Almeida, 32, gave illuminating insights into the inner lives of the wealthy Dulos family, describing their family holidays to luxury ski and beach resorts.

She told the court that the Dulos parents were initially 'nice' to each other but their relationship deteriorated, and when Jennifer found out about Fotis' affair with Troconis in March 2017 it took a turn for the worse.

Almeida said Fotis often intimidated Jennifer, and she grew so scared of him that she fled from their Farmington family home with their five kids in secret to file for divorce from the safety of a five-star hotel Manhattan hotel and hired a bodyguard.

She also recounted how she ate lunch in Jennifer's kitchen with her children hours after the Connecticut mother vanished - oblivious to the tiny bloodstains in the room, which would later become a crime scene.

Almeida said in hindsight there were several chilling signs that Jennifer had not gone about her day as normal - including a full cup of tea and granola bar in the kitchen, and her expensive handbag strewn on the floor.

The nanny, who still lives with the now-orphaned Dulos children and Jennifer's mother Gloria, wore a silver necklace with the number '5' on - possibly a nod to the brood - as she gave testimony over two days.

Jurors were shown messages Fotis Dulos sent to their nanny, Lauren Almeida (pictured) asking her for updates on his 50-year-old wife's disappearance on May 24, 2019

Jennifer Dulos was 'terrified' of her husband Fotis in the months before she died, according to their nanny Lauren Almeida (pictured), who continued her testimony in court on Wednesday

Almeida said she ate lunch with Jennifer Dulos' children in the kitchen - oblivious to tiny alleged bloodstains in the room, which would later become the crime scene in Jennifer's murder

Four of Jennifer Dulos' children and their nanny ate lunch in her 'bloodstained' kitchen hours after she was allegedly murdered by her husband in the home, court has heard. (Pictured: nanny Lauren Almeida in court on day four of the trial)

Jennifer Dulos had an idyllic family life until her husband Fotis cheated on her with Michelle Troconis, the woman now accused of helping him cover up her murder, Almeida revealed. (Pictured: Almeida being sworn in as a witness during the Stamford trial on Tuesday)

Almeida previously said Jennifer was an 'incredibly nurturing mother' to her five kids, who were aged between eight and 13 when she disappeared on May 24, 2019

Jurors were also shown text messages Fotis sent to Almeida in the days following Jennifer's disappearance asking several times for 'updates' on his missing wife, before he was identified as a suspect.

Jennifer's body was never found, but Judge William P. Osterndorf declared her 'officially dead' last week.

Troconis' trial began in Stamford began on Thursday before pausing over the weekend and for Martin Luther King Jr Day.

On the first day, the state presented bodycam footage of officers searching Jennifer's home in New Canaan, Connecticut, including the garage where police say Jennifer was so badly injured that she bled profusely.

Jurors were shown what appeared to be a bloody footprint in her garage, and various red marks on the Range Rover parked in the central bay.

Troconis' sister Claudia, flanked by their parents Marisela and Carlos, made an emotional statement outside the Stamford courthouse following the first hearing, insisting that Michelle is innocent.

Former state police detective Matthew Reilly said he spotted red stains on several surfaces in Jennifer's kitchen, including on a paper towel roll, sink faucet, and counter-top - and in her garage

Suspected blood stain in Jennifer Dulos' Range Rover which was parked in her garage

The next day, Troconis' lawyer Jon Schoenhorn attempted to block detectives from testifying about their use of a luminol swab to identify some of the stains as blood, claiming the test is based on 'junk science'.

He made an impassioned statement to press outside, saying that luminol, which glows blue when blood is present, also presents the same color for substances including bleach, rust, paint and turpentine.

But Judge Kevin Randolph ruled that evidence regarding luminol was admissible, adding that Schoenhorn would get an opportunity to cross-examine officials about it.

Former Connecticut State Police detective Kevin Reilly spoke about the luminol tests when the trial resumed on Tuesday after the three-day holiday weekend, and jurors were shown new images of alleged bloodstains in Jennifer's kitchen.

Reilly said some of the garage samples tested positive for blood. The swabs were sent to a lab for confirmation, but none of the witnesses have testified yet about these results.

Under cross-examination by Schoenhorn, he agreed that the luminol tests, which was one of the two tests deployed, would also have appeared positive for a 'laundry list' of other substances.
A popular gym left completely gutted by a horror fire was previously owned by notorious far-right activist and commentator Avi Yemini.

Residents alerted emergency services after the complex on Hawthorn Road in Caufield North, Melbourne, erupted into flames just after 5am on Tuesday.

Mr Yemini said he had previously owned Bayside Health and Fitness, one of the businesses destroyed by the intense blaze.

'Waking up to the news that my old IDF training gym in the heart of the Jewish community in Melbourne was burnt down overnight,' he posted on X.

'I really hope the arsonists didn't target the new owners because of me or my old branding.'

Far-right activist and commentator Avi Yemini (pictured) used to own one of the affected gyms

Bayside Health and Fitness (pictured) was completely gutted by the fire

It is not yet clear what sparked the fire.

It comes just days after a young woman was left 'unrecognisable' after she was allegedly set on fire by an acquaintance after an argument over a motorised scooter.

Paris Carpio-Woodley, 20, was airlifted to a Melbourne hospital after she was set alight outside a home in South Shepparton, at about 6.30pm on Monday.

Daily Mail Australia understands Victoria Police will allege accelerant was thrown on Ms Carpio-Woodley before her alleged attacker, 33-year-old mother Jordan Spencer, then lit the flame.

Neighbours earlier told reporters that Ms Carpio-Woodley's 'entire head' was ablaze and a garden hose had to be used to douse the flames.

'(Paris) is unrecognisable,' a source close to the family told Daily Mail Australia.

Ms Carpio-Woodley remained in an induced coma in the intensive care unit at the Alfred Hospital on Thursday morning, where she is in a critical condition.

The woman suspected of attacking her, Spencer, is also fighting for life, and is under police guard. No charges have been laid.

It's understood the complex (pictured) houses a gym, a Pilates studio and a physiotherapist

The fire was declared under control by firefighters just before 7am on Tuesday

The building is home to Bayside Health and Fitness, Body Moves yoga studio and a physiotherapist, with at least two of the businesses destroyed.

Up to 25 fire trucks and 60 firefighters were on the scene at the peak of the blaze before the fire was declared under control just before 7am.

A Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said 31 people were safely evacuated from a nearby residential property and a restaurant.

'An aggressive attack meant firefighters were able to contain the fire to two storeys of the building,' the spokesperson said.

People living in Armadale, Caulfield, Caulfield East, Caulfield North, Elsternwick, Glen Huntly, Malvern, Malvern East may see or smell smoke.

'If you are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, seek medical advice,' Fire Rescue Victoria said.

'There is no immediate threat to the community and no action is required.'

Hawthorn Road, which is part of a busy tram network, is expected to remain closed in both directions for much of the morning.

Motorists are urged to use nearby Kooyong Road as an alternative.

Up to 25 fire trucks were sent to the scene in Melbourne's inner southeast
Rishi Sunak's Rwanda plan faced its first test in the House of Lords as peers voted to delay a key plank of the Bill - in what is the latest obstacle to the government's flagship immigration policy.

Peers back the delay 214 votes to 171 following a report last week which recommended that the treaty should not be ratified until ministers can show the country is safe.

Although ministers could take steps to ignore the motion, which is largely symbolic, it provides the first public indication of the scale of opposition to the government's new legislation in the upper chamber.

It will be seen as a barometer of the way the Upper House is likely to treat another crucial element of the Prime Minister's package - the Safety of Rwanda Bill - when it is debated next week.

The treaty, signed by Home Secretary James Cleverly in Kigali last month, sets out a range of safeguards over the treatment of migrants sent to Rwanda.

Peers have inflicted a crushing defeat against Rishi Sunak 's Rwanda deportation plan

Labour former attorney general Lord Goldsmith today tabled a motion seeking to delay the treaty underpinning the Safety of Rwanda Bill - throwing a fresh obstacle in front of the government's plans

Former Labour attorney general Lord Goldsmith, who chairs the Lords international agreements committee, tabled moves to postpone its ratification until a series of laws and other measures have been put in place.

The Committee recommended that Parliament should not ratify the treaty, insisting that safeguards are 'incomplete' and must be implemented before the deal can be endorsed.

Lord Goldsmith told peers: 'We are not saying the treaty should never be ratified.

'But we are saying that Parliament should have the opportunity to scrutinise the treaty and implementation of its measures in full before it makes a judgment about Rwanda is safe.'

Peter Goldsmith, an attorney general under former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who laid the motion, said the vote marked the first time that lawmakers in the Lords had used parliamentary powers to vote to halt the ratification of a treaty.

Debating the motion ahead of the vote, Liberal Democrat frontbencher Lord Fox said: 'There is more than enough reason to delay the ratification of the treaty until the conditions for its lawful operation are actually in place.'

The vote came after the Prime Minister gave a press conference in which urged peers to pass the Rwanda Bill swiftly, challenging them not to 'frustrate the will of the people'.

Labour frontbencher Lord Coaker hit out at Mr Sunak for seeming to instruct the House of Lords, saying: 'Nobody, not least the Prime Minister, should hold press conferences lecturing us about what our role is, when all we seek to do is to improve it and to act in our proper constitutional role.'

He said the Government has not provided evidence that elements of the treaty have been implemented in Rwanda.

'The Government has not provided the evidence to support what it is saying needs to be done, either to the committee or to (the House of Lords).

'So how can we determine whether Rwanda is safe when the very things upon which that is dependent have not been provided to us? And that's what the committee is saying.'

The Upper House (pictured at the state opening in November) debated the bill today

The Rwanda Bill was approved by the Commons last week despite major revolts from Tory MPs who demanded it was made tougher.

As it was introduced to the Lords on Thursday there were shouts of 'shame' from the red benches.

The Upper House is set to start scrutinising the law at the end of the month, but the process will not be complete until at least mid-March.

Under the Rwanda plan, which has yet to be carried out, asylum seekers who cross the English Channel and land on England's southern coast in small, inflatable boats would be sent on planes to Rwanda.

Sunak has said he wants the first deportation flights to leave in the next few months - ahead of a general election expected in the second half of this year - so he can meet one of his five pledges to 'stop the boats'.

In an effort to overcome resistance from the courts who have ruled the plan is unlawful, Britain signed a treaty last year with Rwanda, in which it agreed to address safety concerns, and the government is trying to pass legislation through parliament that would block legal challenges to deportations.
Their bodies were discovered Thursday in a downtown L.A. apartment after Vasquez's wife requested a welfare check

A California musician known as The Soft Moon has been found dead alongside a popular techno DJ and his wife after the trio suffered a suspected fentanyl overdose.

Jose 'Luis' Vasquez, 44, John 'Juan' Mendez, 46 - a techno DJ who performed under the moniker Silent Servant - and Mendez's wife, 43-year-old Simone Ling, were discovered on Thursday at the couple's home at the Pacific Electric Lofts Apartments in downtown Los Angeles.

Police say a welfare check ordered by Vasquezs wife led them to the bodies.

'It is with great sadness that we announce our dear friend, Luis Vasquez has passed away,' read a statement posted on social media. 'Our hearts and thoughts are with his family, friends and extended music family.'

Authorities recovered drug paraphernalia at the scene, and the case is being investigated as a possible fentanyl overdose.

Jose 'Luis' Vasquez, who released music under the name The Soft Moon, was found dead aged 44 on Thursday

The bodies of techno DJ John 'Juan' Mendez, 46, who went by Silent Servant, and Mendez's wife, 43-year-old Simone Ling, were also discovered

The trio were found in the Pacific Electric Lofts apartment complex in downtown Los Angeles after all three suffered a suspected fentanyl overdose

The LAPD Central Bureau Homicide is investigating the circumstances surrounding the trio's death.

In cases where fentanyl is suspected it may take three to six months before the final causes of death are determined, the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiners office revealed.

The statement posted to Vasquez's social media accounts urged people to share memories of Luis, 'no matter if you were a close friend of his or not.'

'This is a huge loss and our hearts are broken,' it read.

Vasquez was the sole official member of The Soft Moon, which he founded in 2009, and served as the creative force behind the project. He had an interest in music from a young age, playing guitar and forming his first punk band at just 15-years-old.

The Soft Moon got its start while Vasquez was working in the Bay Area and released its first album in 2010.

It began as a home-recording project before picking up popularity and launching Vasquez into stardom. He and his bandmates toured with larger acts like Depeche Mode and Interpol.

In 2012, Vasquez was robbed at gunpoint while walking in Oakland. The thieves snatched a laptop containing a finished album and two years' worth of demos.

Vasquez said he wrote the project's albums himself and then toured with other members. The 44-year-old relocated to Venice, Italy, in 2013.

By 2018, he was living in Berlin. After moving to Joshua Tree, the groups fifth and final album, 'Exister,' was released in 2022.

Vasquez served as the sole official member of The Soft Moon, a band he started in 2009. The group's fifth and final album was released in 2022

Mendez was a prominent underground DJ in L.A. who co-founded two record labels and later toured across Europe

His partner, 43-year-old Simone Ling, was a visual artist who collaborated on the design of his most recent EP, 'In Memoriam'

The duo were frequently pictured together on social media as they traveled back and forth between Europe and the United States

A statement posted to Vasquez's social media accounts confirmed his death and urged users to share their memories of the musician

Mendez was a pioneer in L.A.s underground techno music scene, even co-founding two record labels, Sandwell District and Jealous God.

After touring venues and festivals in Europe, he returned to Los Angeles and released 'Shadows of Death and Desire' in 2018.

His newest EP, 'In Memoriam,' came out in November and was described as an homage to everything that had inspired him.

'This EP is the first time I have been able to take all my memories and influences and distill them into musical form,' the DJ explained on Instagram.

He and Ling were frequently pictured together as the pair bounced back and forth between Europe and the United States.

In 2022, Ling shared a black-and-white photo of the duo captioned: 'Happy Birthday to my husband. Love you!'

The 43-year-old visual artist was based between Melbourne and Los Angeles and frequently posted her dark, brooding work to Instagram.

She even collaborated with Mendez on his latest EP, designing artwork for 'In Memoriam.'
President Joe Biden tore into state crackdowns on abortion in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision striking down Roe v. Wade, blasting the 'cruelty' of policies that can send physicians to jail or go after family members who help women travel out of state.

Speaking at the White House on the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, and more than a year after the Dobbs decision, Biden blasted a Texas state law and state supreme court decision in the case of Kate Cox, a Dallas mother of two who ultimately fled the state to have an abortion she was prevented from getting for a non-viable pregnancy.

It was one of many states that put in place new abortion restrictions after the Supreme court struck down the landmark abortion law.

'Instead of being able to receive care from her doctor, she was blocked by the state of Texas Attorney General and the state Supreme Court. Think about that: As she and her family were going through the frightening, heartbreaking ordeal, she had to fight extreme politicians in the court,' Biden said, with top cabinet officials gathered.

President Joe Biden blasted the 'cruelty' of state abortion restrictions, including a decision by a Texas court and state AG to prohibit a woman from getting an abortion for a non-viable pregnancy. He appeared with Dr. Tani Malhotra, M.D., Maternal-Fetal Medicine physician and Assistant Professor of Reproductive Biology, speaks during a meeting with his reproductive rights task force

'They turned a deeply private and painful matter into a public matter. She ultimately had to leave the state to get the help she needed to protect herself and her ability to have more children,' Biden said, speaking at a meeting of his reproductive rights task force.

'The cruelty is astounding. An affront to a woman's dignity being told by extreme politicians to wait. To get sicker and sicker to the point where her life may be in danger before you can get the care you need.'

'That cruel reality is result of extreme Republicans who for years have made it their mission to end the Roe v Wade decision,' he continued, blasting new restrictions that have gone into effect, including those that do not allow exceptions for rape and incest.

He said some doctors are 'fleeing their home states because of the laws that would send them to prison for providing evidence based health care,' and called out states like Texas where ''doctors can get a life sentence  a life sentence  for providing the care that we're trying to provide.'

The president made his comments on a day Vice President Kamala Harris spoke on abortion rights in Wisconsin as part of a 'Fight For Reproductive Freedoms tour', and a day before he holds a campaign event in Virginia that also holds up the issue.

'Instead of being able to receive care from her doctor, she was blocked by the state of Texas Attorney General and the state Supreme Court,' Biden said of Texas woman Kate Cox

Vice President Kamala Harris kicked off a 'Fight For Reproductive Freedoms tour'

Biden mixed up two cabinet secretaries when acknowledging HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, who wasn't there

Biden highlighted the case of Dallas mother Kate Cox, who left the state to have an abortion amid a fight over a new law that imposes restrictions

Democrats have scored electoral wins in response to the Supreme Court decision and in state races when abortion issues were on the ballot. The issue could help motivate Biden supporters even as multiple polls show him slightly trailing Donald Trump.

The president also appeared to mix up two of his cabinet secretaries during his remarks, when he name-checked Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, instead mentioning Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

'I also like to thank the gender policy advisor, my gender policy adviser, Jen Klein. Secretary Becerra, sitting right next to her for the leadership and his task force,' Biden said, although Becerra wasn't in the room.
President Biden is facing increasing pressure to ban flavored tobacco by top Democrats as his proposal is hanging in limbo due to the threat of alienating black voters ahead of the 2024 election.

Last month, the Biden administration punted on enacting a nationwide ban on menthol cigarettes, amid political pushback and warnings the move could anger black voters who have been drifting away from the president in polling.

It is now expected to finalize the rule in March - pushed back from the original January date.

But according to over 20 Democrat-led states, including California, the health benefits outweigh political risks that Biden will face on the campaign trail.

California's Attorney General Rob Bonta led a 21-state letter to the White House stating that the time to act is 'now' to 'halt the sale of these flavored tobacco products, which will lay the groundwork to reverse decades of disparities in tobacco use and save lives.'

As his state is advocating for a quick decision by the administration on the menthol ban, California's Gov. Gavin Newsom has emerged as a top surrogate for Biden's re-election campaign.

Newsom is heading down to South Carolina this week to campaign for him in the first Democrat primary

Although his state is advocating against a Biden administration move, California's Gov. Gavin Newsom has emerged as a top surrogate for Biden's re-election

Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., is warning that the ban would enable terrorist organizations

He is heading down to South Carolina this week to campaign for him in the first Democrat primary.

But the menthol issue isn't likely to go away anytime soon.

A string of recent polls reveal that President Biden's proposed ban on menthol cigarettes may have 'unintended consequences' for him at the ballot box in 2024.

And some, including Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., are warning that the ban would enable terrorist organizations.

'The FDA's proposed rule to ban menthol cigarettes would allow terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah to rake in millions from black market menthol cigarettes and use the profits to finance their terrorist activities, and therefore represents a national security threat to the United States,' he wrote in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland Monday.

Recently, a group of supporters of menthol cigarettes held a dramatic 'menthol funeral' at Black Lives Matter Plaza - directly in front of the White House - just last week.

The protestors hauled out a massive fake menthol cigarette pack and marched it down the street in fake funeral parade one block from the White House.

'Ban Menthol Save Black Lives' the signs at the event read.

'Today we are joining advocates for a Menthol Funeral demanding that the [White House] issue final rules to prohibit the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars,' said one participant on X.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network added that the administration's 'delay' is enabling tobacco companies to 'continue to profit as their dangerous and addictive products lead to more death and disease.'

A group of supporters of menthol cigarettes held a dramatic 'menthol funeral' at Black Lives Matter Plaza - directly in front of the White House - just last week

'Ban Menthol Save Black Lives' the sign at the fake menthol funeral read

Today we are joining advocates for a Menthol Funeral demanding that the @WhiteHouse issue final rules to prohibit the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars pic.twitter.com/AAQku3lXoI  Mike Seilback (@Seilback) January 18, 2024

The delay in issuing the rules enables tobacco companies to continue to profit as their dangerous and addictive products lead to more death and disease. #MentholFuneral @aatclc pic.twitter.com/NnAKDVACoB  American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (@ACSCAN) January 19, 2024

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court rejected a challenge to California's menthol cigarette ban as a similar Biden-proposed national ban on flavored tobacco hangs in limbo.

The high court declined to hear a case brought by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company challenging the Democrat-run state's ban on flavored cigarettes.

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the ban into law in 2020 in an attempt to stem the use of e-cigarettes and flavored tobacco by teens and younger Americans. California is the second state in the nation behind Massachusetts to implement such a prohibition.

Last month, the Biden administration punted on enacting a similar nationwide ban.

A string of recent polls reveal that President Biden's proposed ban on menthol cigarettes may have 'unintended consequences' for him at the ballot box in 2024

On Monday, the high court declined to hear a case brought by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company challenging the state's ban on flavored cigarettes

Recent survey results obtained by DailyMail.com that show over six in 10 voters nationwide agree that the banning of menthol cigarettes will disproportionately harm minority communities - and that includes 63 percent of Democrats.

The FDA announced new standards in 2022 for a menthol cigarette ban, in a move intended to crack down on disease and death from a product originally marketed toward African American smokers.

Among black smokers, 81 percent opt for menthol cigarettes, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) figures cited by the Washington Post.

The move comes amid polls that show that while Biden's support among black voters remains high compared to other groups, it is slipping, amid overall low approval ratings that put him in a tough race against former President Donald Trump, who has assembled edge over his rival even while refusing to rule out being a dictator.

The regulatory move has prompted a debate between sides focusing on potential health benefits and the ACLU and other groups who say it goes after a certain group of smokers and would lead to black market sales.

Potential unintended consequences could include shifting manufacturing to China and risky sales out of vehicle trunks.

House Republicans announced last month they are probing the regulatory push.

The CDC has issued warnings based on scientific research that 'menthol in cigarettes makes it more likely that youth and young adults will try smoking and that those who start smoking will continue to smoke on a regular basis.'

'Menthol makes cigarettes more appealing and easier to smoke,' according to the CDC. 'In addition, menthol enhances the addictive effects of nicotine in the brain. The amount of nicotine, the addictive drug in tobacco products, in menthol cigarettes has increased in recent years.'

It cited data that 10.1 million people started smoking because of menthol cigarettes from 1980 to 2018, resulting in an estimated 378,000 premature. The agency added up the totals, 3 million years of 'potential life lost' during the period.

The Biden Administration is expected to again delay final rule-making on a proposed menthol cigarette ban

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer told DailyMail.com in statement: 'Joe Biden's decision to pursue a ban on menthol cigarettes is a disgusting overreach of power and a slap in the face to millions of Americans.'

In addition, law enforcement officials previously told DailyMail.com that the ban would lead to an increase in black market trafficking, cartel and gang violence and unregulated cigarettes - which could be laced with dangerous drugs, including fentanyl.

And it will impact minority communities the most, because menthols are smoked predominantly by black and Latino communities - at over 80 percent - said retired New York State Police officer Elliot Boyce.

The Biden administration is also catching heat for pushing for the menthol ban while moving to decriminalize marijuana.

However, top Biden officials have maintained that the criminalization of menthols would help Americans become less addicted over time.

'The proposed rules would help prevent children from becoming the next generation of smokers and help adult smokers quit,' HHS Sec. Xavier Becerra previously said.

'Additionally, the proposed rules represent an important step to advance health equity by significantly reducing tobacco-related health disparities,' he continued.
A drug trafficker was arrested in Brazil with a massive shipment of cocaine worth $14 million that was covered with swastikas.

Brazilian cops working on an anonymous tip confiscated 490 kilos that were split into 15 bales with the symbol of the German Nazi Party during an operation Friday.

The massive shipment, worth about $14 million in the United States, had been loaded on two pickup trucks when border agents, federal and state police officers busted the drug trafficker in the central-western state of Mato Grosso.

Authorities arrested a male suspect and were searching for two other people who managed to flee into a nearby forest.

On Friday, Brazilian border agents and cops seized 490 kilos of cocaine concealed in 15 bales that had swastika stickers on them. One suspect was arrested and two fled when police arrived

A Brazilian law enforcement agent testes the purity of a package containing cocaine during an operation in the central-western city of Conquista D'Oeste

Brazilian authorities have confiscated 62 tons of cocaine since 2019 in towns near the border with Bolivia

The bust took place in the municipality of Conquitsa DOeste, which is located on the western end of Mato Gross and about 165 miles from the nearest border crossing with Bolivia.

It is unknown if the massive drug shipment originated from the neighboring South American country.

According to Mato Grosso government data, border agents have seized 62 tons of cocaine in towns bordering Bolivia since 2019.

Drug trafficking organization in Latin American typically label with logos and names of celebrities to identify their products when shipping them overseas.

And it was not the first time that a South American drug trafficking networks took a preference to labeling their cocaine shipments with swastikas.

In May 2023, cops in Peruvian port city of Paita seized more than 57 kilos of cocaine split into 50 plastic-wrapped packages  the majority featured swastikas.

Cops verifying the purity of the shipment, that was bound for Belgium, discovered that each package of cocaine had Hitler stamped over them.
The former pageant winner was charged on Monday with aggravated battery, felony murder and first-degree cruelty to children

Teenage Georgia beauty queen Trinity Madison Poague was seen in her mugshot looking dejected after she was charged with the murder of her boyfriend's 18-month-old son.

Police believe baby Jaxton 'Jax' Drew died from 'blunt force trauma,' according to WALB. But police continue to wait for official autopsy reports.

The reigning Miss Donalsonville, 18, was arrested on Friday by agents from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. She was charged on Monday with aggravated battery, felony murder and first-degree cruelty to children.

A coroner told the outlet that the child was taken from a dormitory on the Georgia Southwestern State campus to Phoebe Sumter Hospital in Americus, Georgia, around 12:40pm on Jan. 14.

When baby Jaxton arrived, he was unresponsive and hospital staff did all they could to save him, but were unable.

Teenage Georgia beauty queen Trinity Madison Poague was seen in her mugshot looking dejected after she was charged with the murder of her boyfriend's 18-month-old son

Trinity Madison Poague, the reigning Miss Donalsonville, was arrested on Friday and remains in jail

Poague, 18, is a freshman at Georgia Southwestern State University. She was crowned Miss Donalsonville in 2023 and competed in the National Peanut Festival Pagean

Investigators said after multiple interviews and examining the evidence, Poague was arrested.

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

Police have not said how the baby sustained the injuries, but the investigation was ongoing.

If convicted, Poague faces up to life in prison.

The baby's name on the birth certificate is Romeo Angles, according to WALB. But, the child's father gave the name Jaxton Drew.
An elderly man had his throat slashed with a boxcutter after he asked a man not to urinate on a car outside a church.

The 66-year-old was rushed to hospital after he and a security guard approached the man on New York City's Lower East Side about 5pm on Sunday.

The victim was a churchgoer at Immaculate Conception Church, and spotted the man about to urinate on an employee's car, police said.

Not pleased to be told off, the man argued with the pair before taking out the boxcutter and slashing the victim's throat, then fled.

This man is wanted for allegedly slashing a 66-year-old man's throat when asked not to urinate on a parked car outside a church

Surveillance photos released by police showed the suspect wearing an orange and black puffer jacket with a hood, and a grey beanie holding a drink and dragging a cart

The East Village resident was rushed to Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in critical but stable condition with a 'severe' wound. The security guard was not injured.

Police said the victim and the man who wounded him have longstanding animosity and the attacker appeared to have mental health issues.

He was often seen pushing a cart outside a nearby McDonald's, which he was caught on CCTV dragging.

Other surveillance photos released by police showed the suspect wearing an orange and black puffer jacket with a hood, and a grey beanie holding a drink.

Anyone with information about the attack or who has seen the suspect should contact the NYPD.
Chloe Rose, from Halifax, woke from surgery to find it had gone 'severely wrong'

An OnlyFans model who was left with 'dying nipples' after a boob job in Turkey has flown home to the UK to undergo emergency surgery as she told of her 'traumatising' ordeal.

Chloe Rose, 22, who lives in Halifax, went under the knife in Turkey after paying 2,800 for a breast uplift.

The mother of one woke from the four-hour surgery to find the operation had gone 'severely wrong'.

Friends with Chloe in Istanbul claims surgeons took too much skin from her breasts leading to a loss of circulation to her nipples, causing necrosis - the death of body tissue.

Chloe, who sells content on adult platform OnlyFans for $9.99 (7.87) a month, was flown back to England on Sunday, five days after undergoing surgery.

She posted online that paramedics blue-lighted her to a hospital in Manchester for 'emergency surgery'.

Chloe posted on social media yesterday: 'I'm currently waiting for emergency surgery. I'm petrified and traumatised but I could not thank everyone enough for helping save my life. I have no words.'

Chloe Rose, 22, (pictured) who lives in Halifax, West Yorkshire, went under the knife in Turkey after spending 2,800 for a breast uplift

The mother of one woke from the four-hour surgery to find the operation had gone 'severely wrong'

Friends with Chloe (pictured after the surgery) in Istanbul claims surgeons took too much skin from her breasts leading to a loss of circulation to her nipples, causing necrosis - the death of body tissue

Rachel Mucha, 22, who was in Istanbul with Chloe, said: 'The relief is unbelievable. We have landed in the UK and are now being blue lighted to the hospital. We cannot thank everyone enough.'

She told Chloe: 'So proud of you for pushing through. The hardest week of our lives but you're now in the safest of hands. The relief we felt getting off that plane was the most unreal feeling. I love you so much.'

Chloe, who is also a beautician, paid 2,800 for the cut-price operation, including flights and accommodation in Turkey.

She woke from the surgery 'screaming in agony' after contracting necrosis. Friends and family raised more than 8,000 to fly Chloe, her sister Collette Pickering, and friend Rachel back to the UK, accompanied by a medical assistant.

They claim that, after the operation, Chloe was allegedly told to pay to stay in the Turkish hospital for treatment. Its doctors are said to have denied negligence.

Rachel wrote on Facebook: 'Now, it is basically a waiting game with proper attentive care - Chloe will certainly face skin loss around the nipples and reconstruction will certainly be needed, we are just unsure of the severity at this stage.'

Rachel said an English-speaking medic in Turkey deemed Chloe 'as fit to fly' on Saturday but that she was still 'very unwell'.

Friend Rachel Mucha, 22, who is in Istanbul with Chloe, told MailOnline: 'Chloe wanted to feel good and better about herself. She hated the way her boobs looked so she booked an operation in Turkey, where it's much cheaper than the UK'

Rachel added: 'She's been left with nipple necrosis where her nipples are dying. Now, we are stuck in a foreign country unsure of what to do'

She added: 'Chloe is still very unwell, unable to even sit up alone and is extremely drained from the experience, but we are getting her home which is giving her that little bit of reassurance.'

Friend Rachel Mucha, 22, who is in Istanbul with Chloe, previously told MailOnline: 'Chloe wanted to feel good and better about herself. She hated the way her boobs looked so she booked an operation in Turkey, where it's much cheaper than the UK.

'We flew out on Monday and she had the operation on Tuesday. The doctors said the operation went fine but when Chloe came around she was screaming in agony - she knew her body didn't feel right.

'She's been left with nipple necrosis where her nipples are dying. Now, we are stuck in a foreign country unsure of what to do.

'The doctor kept telling us "it's fine" but it isn't fine. Chloe is in agony - she feels like she's going to die. We left the hospital because we couldn't afford to stay. We want to fly home but we don't know if she will be allowed.'

Chloe's friends shared graphic images on social media of her breasts after her operation. They show her nipple tissue turning black due to a lack of blood flow.

Friends and family have launched a GoFundMe appeal to bring Chloe home and wanted to raise enough money for an air ambulance.

Sister Collette Pickering said the operation went 'severely wrong'.

She wrote: 'Can anyone give us advice or find us some help? We are in Turkey and Chloe had a breast uplift - since surgery her nipples have lost blood circulation and died.

'The doctors have never admitted to a problem the whole way through they've just said everything is normal.

'They have undone her stitches with a blade, wide awake, no pain relief as I watched and left her with open wounds for 48 hours.'

Collette said medics 'partially restitched' Chloe's nipples but added: 'They are dying more as the hours go by.

Friends and family have launched a GoFundMe appeal to bring Chloe home and want to raise 15,000 for an air ambulance

Sister Collette Pickering said the operation went 'severely wrong'. She wrote: 'We are in Turkey and Chloe had a breast uplift - since surgery her nipples have lost blood circulation and died'

'They are now discharging her and If she wants to stay she must pay extra.

'They have a duty of care, she paid all that money for a safe operation and has been left to basically die.'

She added: 'Everything is just normal according to them. I've never seen anyone so young look so unwell in my life.

'The surgery should have taken 45 minutes, it took five hours. It should have been so simple.

'My sister came out in shock where she was convulsing on the bed. From that point on it was all downhill.'

Yesterday, Colette wrote on the GoFundMe page: 'Myself and Chloe have managed to get a medically assisted flight back to the UK, rather than an air ambulance - we cannot thank you all enough.

'We now ask to please stop your donations as we have enough to pay for Chloe to get home and get the medical assistance she needs.'

WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT BELOW

The mother of one's breasts were left bruised after the surgery that went wrong

Graphic images showed how she was left with 'dying nipples' after she got necrosis

The necrosis was caused by a lack of blood circulation to her nipples following the surgery

Chloe's family said the operation was booked via Instagram with a company with 'five star reviews'

Chloe's family said the operation was booked via Instagram with a company with 'five star reviews'.

Hundreds of Turkish clinics advertise to Brit customers online through targeted advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Companies say their rates are subsidised by the government 'for promoting Turkey as a medical tourism destination'.

Most recent published figures show that 1,087,000 patients from 165 countries reportedly visited in 2019, contributing 8billion to the economy.

The Foreign Office has assured Chloe's MP that they are 'escalating the matter'.

Halifax MP Holly Lynch said: 'I was sorry to hear today about Chloe's terrible experience.

'My office have contacted the Foreign Office who assure me they are escalating the matter, we have also contacted Chloe's insurance provider to make representations on her behalf.

'I will continue to do what I can to support Chloe and her family in the days to come.'
A three-month-old girl has been found dead inside a New York City migrant hotel as police investigate how the newborn died.

The baby, identified as Yuleisy Astudillo, was found unresponsive at the Queens County Inn & Suites on Crescent Street near 41st Avenue in Dutch Kills on Sunday afternoon around 3pm.

The newborn was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital in Astoria but was pronounced deceased, according to a report.

A spokesperson with the city's Department of Social Services said the Queens hotel is being used as one of the city's emergency migrant shelters.

The baby, identified as Yuleisy Astudillo, was found unresponsive at the Queens County Inn & Suites on Crescent Street near 41st Avenue in Dutch Kills on Sunday afternoon around 3pm

Police said there was no signs of criminality in the newborn's death

The city's medical examiner's office will perform an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death

It remains unclear how the child died, but police said there were no signs of visible trauma on the baby's body, and no immediate signs of criminality, The New York Post reported.

The city's medical examiner's office will perform an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

Maybeli Fuentes, who works in housekeeping at the hotel, told the Gothamist that baby Yuleisy's parents are Ecuadorian migrants, who have two other children.

She said they have been living in the city for about a year.

On Sunday evening members of the Queens District Attorneys Office were also at the scene.

A city's Department of Social Services spokesperson called it 'an absolutely heart-breaking tragedy.'

'Protecting the health and safety of our clients is our top priority, and non-profit provider staff responded immediately when this incident was reported to ensure appropriate medical supports.'

'Our deepest condolences go out to all who have been impacted, and we stand ready to provide the family with every support we can during this incredibly difficult time.'
Illinois police are searching for an 'armed and dangerous' suspect after seven family members were found shot dead in two homes in Joliet on Monday and another man was killed on Sunday.

The suspect, Romeo Nance, 23, was still at large on Monday evening and is believed to be driving a red Toyota Camry with the license plate Q730412.

Will County Sheriff's Office started investigating Nance after two separate shootings on Sunday, when a 28-year-old man was fatally shot and another man was shot in the leg but survived.

They set up surveillance at an address linked to Nance's car on Sunday night in the 2200 block of West Acres Road, and when he didn't return, they said they knocked on the door and then forced entry to find 'multiple' deceased people.

Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans said the dead people are 'family members' and two were found in one house, while five were found in another house across the road.

He said: Ive been a policeman 29 years, this is probably the worst crime scene I have ever been associated with.

Illinois police are searching Romeo Nance who they said is 'armed and dangerous'

The two homes are located on the 2200 block of West Acres Road

Two people were found dead in one home in Joliet while five were found dead in another house

A previous mugshot of Nance from 2019 after he was charged with theft and robbery

Will County Sheriffs Office deputy chief Dan Jungles said they had been working on the investigation into Nance since Sunday when they were called to a report of a man bleeding from his head at 5 Pheasant Run Lane.

He said: 'Our officers responded to that area for a person found with blood coming out of his head and upon deputies arrival they located a gunshot wound.

'He was transported to a local area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.'

The man was later identified as 28-year-old Toyosi Bakare, originally from Nigeria, who has been living in the United States for approximately three years.

Dept Chief Jungles said they quickly identified Nance's vehicle and found it was linked to another non-fatal shooting, where a man was shot in the leg but survived, in Joliet the same day.

He said at midnight on Sunday officers set up 'constant surveillance' near an address linked to Nance's vehicle in 2200 West Acres Road but it 'yielded negative results'.

After Nance or the car failed to appear at the address, Dept Chief Jungles said: Just before noon this morning, our officers then went to a residence, located blood, made entry where they located two deceased individuals.

Our deputies did go to one of the residence, knocked on that door first and when they received no response, they knew that the house across the street was related to the individuals in that house.

'Walked over there and thats when they discovered the blood and made entry into the house to look for these individuals.

We had surveillance on it all through the evening and into this morning, constant surveillance, hoping the vehicle would return to that residence which it did not.

'And thats when we made the decision to try to make contact with the registered owner of the vehicle.

Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans said it was the 'worst' crime scene he had seen in his 29-year career

Deputy Chief Dan Jungles said they had been surveilling the houses since midnight on Sunday

Chief Evans said that they 'do not have any motive' for the shootings but that Nance 'does know the victims'.

He said: 'They are related. We do believe they are family members.'

He added: Our hearts go out to the victims' families of this heinous crime. We will do everything in our power, here at the Joliet Police Department, to bring the person responsible for this to justice.'

Nance is 62 and 170lbs. His last known address was in the 2200 West Acres block.

Chief Evans warned the public to be vigilant and said: Do not attempt to take this subject into custody on your own.

Earlier on Monday, the Joliet Police Department said: 'Nance should be regarded as armed and dangerous.'

Anyone with information regarding Nance and this vehicle are asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.

'The information remains fluid and ever changing as this investigation progresses,' said police.

At 1:50 p.m. on Monday the police closed West Acres Road between Madison Street and Springfield Avenue to conduct the investigation when they discovered the bodies.

The police confirmed in a 3.00pm update that several people had died and they are searching for Nance - they would not give a number at first.

Police are looking for a red Toyota Camry which was seen near the scenes of two other shootings on Sunday

Police said Nance believed to be driving a red Toyota Camry with the license plate Q730412

A red Toyota Camry with the same license plate was identified as being involved with two shootings on Sunday

Nance was arrested by Joliet police before in 2023 after allegedly trying to shoot a woman multiple times.

The 36-year-old woman was driving when a black four-door sedan began honking at her. The driver then pulled up alongside her and threw a water bottle at her, before following her car and pointing a gun at her.

He allegedly then shot at the woman multiple times, but didn't hit her, before speeding away.

Police identified Nance as a suspect, found him near his house and arrested him after brief struggle.

He was charged with aggravated discharge of a weapon, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, aggravated assault, reckless discharge of a firearm and obstructing a peace officer.

But he was released after posting $10,000 of a $100,000 bond in March 10 2023, according to court documents seen by WGN9, and was due back in court February 1.

He was also imprisoned aged 19 and charged with two counts of robbery, two counts of theft and one charge of unlawful possession of cannabis.
Jeremy Hunt is facing fresh pressure to use the Budget to fix 'unfair' child benefit rules which penalise single income families.

Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, wrote to the Chancellor urging him to rethink the 50,000 threshold at which parents start losing the benefit.

The threshold has been frozen since the policy was introduced in 2013, but wages have risen sharply over the decade.

In 2013, one million families - or 13 per cent - were affected by the 'high income' charge, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

But by 2025, 31 per cent will lose some or all of their entitlement because one parent earns more than 50,000 a year.

Martin Lewis, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, wrote to the Chancellor urging him to rethink the 50,000 threshold at which parents start losing the benefit

The Chancellor appeared as a guest on ITV 's Martin Lewis Money Show earlier in January and asked Mr Lewis to write to him (File Photo)

The Chancellor appeared as a guest on ITV's Martin Lewis Money Show earlier in January and asked Mr Lewis to write to him.

In the letter, the money-saving guru highlighted the high-income child benefit charge.

The tax charge is triggered when one parent in a household claiming child benefit has taxable income of 50,000 or more. If one parent earns 60,000 or more, the charge is 100 per cent of the entitlement.

Mr Lewis said: 'The high-income child benefit charge unfairly penalises single-income families. This was by far the biggest single topic the public asked me to raise with you.'

Mr Lewis quoted a question from 'Alan', who said his son's partner died 34 days after giving birth to twins, and because he earns 60,000 he has been asked to repay the child benefit.

Alan said: 'This seems grossly unfair that a couple can bring in nearly 100,000 but a single breadwinner loses out once they earn more than half of this.'

Mr Lewis wrote: 'I can see few people arguing that it is right that Alan's son's family should lose their child benefit even though their total family income is lower.

Mr Lewis's letter also urged Mr Hunt to cancel the Lifetime Isa (Lisa) withdrawal penalty for first-time buyers (File Photo)

'I was very pleased that you accepted there is an "unfairness" in the structure that penalises single-parent families, single-earner families, and families where there is one dominant earner.

'While I agree, as you pointed out, that there are many structural problems in the tax system, this one is exacerbated by the fact the 50,000 (and 60,000) thresholds have been frozen since 2013.'

Mr Lewis's letter also urged Mr Hunt to cancel the Lifetime Isa (Lisa) withdrawal penalty for first-time buyers.

It says: 'You can only use a Lisa on a qualifying property, which is one worth up to 450,000.

'That 450,000 limit has remained frozen since the Lisa launched in 2017. Average house prices have risen more than 30 per cent in that time.'
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has given his strongest hint yet he could revamp the scheduled Stage Three tax cuts for the rich, despite a solemn pledge that 'my word is my bond.'

On the Kyle and Jackie O show on KIIS FM on Tuesday morning, the PM vowed the government would now be aiming to support low and middle income earners.

The comments fuel expectations the government will U-turn and now scrap the controversial plans to cut the top rate of tax for the nation's wealthiest earners.

The Stage Three tax cut was an inherited policy from the previous Coalition government, but the Labor government had always pledged to support it.

Radio host Kyle Sandilands confronted Mr Albanese, asking him if there will be any changes.

'Our boss here. He's one of those over $250,000-a-year types. And he's saying, 'Oh, you heard a sniff this morning that he might be cut out of the tax cuts.'

'And I said, 'Nah I don't think so. I'm pretty sure everyone's getting some sort of cut.' What's the latest on that?'

Mr Albanese did not provide any assurance at any point during the interview that tax cuts for the wealthy would be left unchanged as per the previous legislation.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised a 'tax cut for everyone' but in a chat with Kyle and Jackie O (pictured) , he gave his strongest hint yet he is set to rip up the scheduled Stage Three tax plans for the rich

He told Kyle and Jackie O: 'I support tax cuts. Everyone will be getting a tax cut.

'What we need to do, across the board, what we're looking at, is how we can help low and middle income earners.

'Middle Australia particularly is doing it really tough. People have a mortgage so we're looking at ways in which we can provide assistance to them.'

Sandilands then asked the PM if he would be getting a tax cut in this year's upcoming budget, and added: 'I'm on the highest tax bracket there is. The highest.'

But Mr Albanese appeared to dodge the question: 'That's because you're one of the highest earners - that's a good thing.'

The PM is set to have cabinet and ministry meetings in Canberra today ahead of a party meeting on Wednesday to finalise new plans to tackle the rising cost of living but the PM dismissed suggestions any suggestion it was a crisis meeting.

'It's not that - we're having a normal meeting,' he told the show.

'We had a meeting last week as well. The papers do like to hyperventilate a little bit about these things.'

Just 18 months ago, the PM insisted in a TV interview with Seven's Spotlight that he would not be making any changes to the tax cuts: 'My word is my bond...I've always been a man of my word.

'We said during the election campaign that we would maintain the position that had already been legislated.

'I believe that when you go to an election and you make commitments you should stick to them.'

Just 18 months ago, the PM pledged to keep the tax cuts in full in a TV interview with Seven's Spotlight (pictured) where he said his word was his bond

Radio 2GB's Chris O'Keefe claimed on Monday afternoon that Mr Albanese will announce the revamp of his tax plans at the meeting.

Under the new Stage Three proposal, 'all tax payers will still receive a tax cut,' O'Keefe claimed.

Many lower and middle-income voters would be better off under the reported change. But Australians who earn more than $180,000 will be the biggest losers, with their tax cut trimmed.

The claims come despite years of assurances - some as recent as last week - that Mr Albanese's position on the tax cuts 'had not changed' since he promised to enforce them in full.

A government spokesperson reiterated to Daily Mail Australia on Monday afternoon that its position 'has not changed'.

But O'Keefe argued that the government's 'position' has been about 'reducing tax' - rather than specifically keep the Stage Three cuts intact.

Under the new plans, lower income earners would instead reportedly receive more relief in an attempt to alleviate cost of living pressures on people who are most directly feeling the pain, O'Keefe said.

Under the old Stage Three proposal first introduced by the Coalition, Australians who earned over $200,000 would receive the most tax relief - $9,075-per-year. That amount would be reduced.

The tax cuts in their current form would cost the government upwards of $300billion over the next decade. But the Morrison-era policy has not been without controversy.

Labor is having a party meeting in Canberra today to finalise new plans to tackle the rising cost of living but PM Anthony Albanese (pictured) dismissed suggestions it was a crisis meeting

Left-wing politicians and voters have demanded the government restructure the tax cuts in order to help middle and low income earners.

Meanwhile, the Opposition knows it could capitalise on Labor 'breaking election promises' if even the slightest changes were made to the policy.

Deputy Nationals leader Perin Davey confirmed as much on Monday afternoon, telling Sky News: 'If that's what the prime minister does, he will be breaking an election commitment.'

Former Deloitte economist Chris Richardson weighed in on the likelihood of changes on Monday afternoon, saying: 'Stage 3... Canberra has suddenly gone very quiet, and my spider senses are tingling.'

Last week Mr Albanese called out an ABC presenter for playing 'word games' with him.

'Nothing has changed, nothing has changed,' he said. 'We support reducing tax'.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers reportedly 'tested the waters' about the implications of changing the Stage Three tax cuts due to begin this year

Stage three tax cuts: What Aussies get under the current plan $45,000: Nothing $60,000: $375 as tax burden falls to $10,692 from $11,067 $80,000: $875 as tax burden falls to $17,192 from $18,067 $120,000: $1,875 as tax burden falls to $29,992 from $31,867 $150,000: $3,975 as tax burden falls to $39,592 from $43,567 $200,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $55,592 from $64,667 $250,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $79,092 from $88,167 $300,000: $9,075 as tax burden falls to $102,592 from $111,667 Tax liabilities for 2024-25 compared with 2022-23 and 2023-24 Advertisement

He told an Adelaide radio station last week: 'Tax cuts will happen in July. We're committed to that... we haven't changed our position.'

But at the same time, a report surfaced from Capital Brief which revealed Treasurer Jim Chalmers' staff had, at the very least, 'tested the waters' about making changes to the policy.

The publication reported the Treasury denied a Freedom of Information Act request that sought 'modelling, analysis, estimates or correspondence between the department and the (Albanese) government relating to the impact of amending stage three on tax receipts or the budget'.

Two separate government documents, crafted between October 2022 and October 2023, were reportedly identified as relevant to the Freedom of Information search.

But the request to release them was denied due to a potential to 'prejudice to the effectiveness of the Treasurer's decision-making and deliberative processes

While these documents do not indicate the government is currently considering changes to the taxation policy, they do suggest that the government has, at some stage, contemplated what tweaking the tax cuts could look like.

A spokesperson for the Treasurer told Daily Mail Australia it is standard practice for the minister to be briefed on all aspects of the Budget and future changes.

'It's not unusual or controversial for the Treasurer to be updated on the costs of upcoming changes to the Budget,' the spokesperson said.
President Joe Biden appeared to mix up two of his cabinet secretaries during televised remarks at the White House Monday, in just the latest stumble amid a focus on his age and acuity.

The mixup came at a meeting with Biden's reproductive rights task force, while he was thanking one advisor and attempting to thank a cabinet secretary.

'I also like to thank the gender policy advisor, my gender policy adviser, Jen Klein,' he said, before improvising a line.

'Where's Jen sitting? There you are, Jen,' Biden, 81, said, pointing to his right. 'Thank you. And Secretary Becerra, sitting right next to her, for the leadership in this task force,' he continued, name-checking Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.

President Joe Biden appeared to mix up two of his cabinet secretaries during a White House event on Monday

It was his Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, who was sitting next to Klein at the event. The White House had said Becerra, a former House member, would participate by zoom.

The glitch came just minutes after White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre defended Biden's mental sharpness and accomplishments  during a week when rival Donald Trump's own mental fitness is under attack following his own mixup of rivals Nikki Haley and Nancy Pelosi.

Jean-Pierre faced a question from Peter Doocy of Fox News about why Americans feel Biden is getting less mentally sharp, referencing recent polling data on the topic.

'I have to say that's a little confusing for me, because if you look at what this president has done in the last three years, historical pieces of legislation, right?' When it comes to bipartisan infrastructure deal, many presidents before  like your favorite president,' she told Doocy, in an apparent reference to Trump in a characterization Doocy disputed.

She talked up the infrastructure law and said 'these are legislation that is going to have a difference for generations to come. Right. And so this is something that this President has done. That's pretty sharp for this President to have been able to do that,' she said.

Biden looked in the direction of Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, but mentioned Secretary Xavier Becerra

Becerra wasn't in the room but was to have participated remotely, according to the White House

The question was in reference to polling last week from ABC News that found 47 per cent found Trump, 77, had the mental sharpness to be president, compared to just 28 per cent for Biden. Trump also topped Biden in the evaluation of physical health, with 57 per cent calling him fit compared to 28 per cent for Biden.

Still, both men's numbers were down from a May survey, with Trump's dropping 7 points on the mental sharpness rating and Biden's down 4 points.

Trump came under fire over the weekend by rival Nikki Haley after his own misshap, where he repeatedly mixed up her name with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, bizarrely blaming Haley for security lapses in Congress on January 6.

Trump said Saturday night his 'mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago.' That came after Haley asked if he was 'mentally fit' following the mixup. Trump also claimed he took another cognitive test in New Hampshire and 'aced it.'

'They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi,' Haley said Saturday. '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 theyre mentally fit to do this. We cant,' Haley said.

On Thursday, Biden gave a speech in North Carolina where he briefly got mixed up when he was looking to praise North Carolina Democratic Rep. Deborah Ross.

'Where's Deborah? I just had my picture taken with her. That's probably why she left,' he joked at first.

'Oh, she couldn't be here, actually. That's not true. I got it mixed up,' he said, awkwardly. 'You know, she fights very hard for the people of this district and she's up in Washington right now.'
The tunnel yawns from the earth beneath the Al-Azhar University in Gaza City. Once, Hamas terrorists would emerge from here to commit atrocities.

For them it was just one more node in a 300-mile-long tunnel network that sprawls across subterranean Gaza devoted to a single goal: spewing terror into Israel.

Like all Hamas tunnels it is sheathed in layers of concrete bolstered by bags filled with sand.

Wedged beneath its roof, though, is one sack that stands out. Lightly coloured with blue Arabic lettering, it bears the logo of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

As an image encapsulating so much about this war, it could not be more revealing. It is also utterly unsurprising.

The tunnel yawns from the earth beneath the Al-Azhar University in Gaza City. Once, Hamas terrorists would emerge from here to commit atrocities (file image of one of the tunnels)

Yahya Sinwar, Palestinian leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, holds a child in a soldier costume, with a weapon, for the cameras

'I was not shocked to discover this,' said the Israel Defence Forces officer whose unit found the tunnel last month.

'After all, we have known for years that part of Hamas's method is to use aid for terror purposes.'

An Israeli soldier is clearly no impartial observer, but my investigation into UN agencies working in Gaza proves that these words cannot simply be dismissed.

Gaza is a 25-mile stretch of land that survives on international aid. Foreign cash is the mortar that binds the strip together. The World Health Organisation, World Food Programme, Red Cross, Red Crescent, Doctors Without Borders, to name just a few, all work here.

From 2014-2020, UN agencies alone spent $4.5 billion in Gaza. In 2019, the UNRWA's budget was $1.17 billion.

That is more than the combined budget of the International Atomic Energy Agency  charged with keeping the world safe from nuclear proliferation  the International Criminal Court, and the World Trade Organization for that year.

The theft and diversion of aid to Hamas is endemic, long-standing and well-known.

Hamas took over governance of the strip in 2007 and for a while UNRWA stood up to it. In February 2009, it temporarily halted all aid shipments to Gaza after Hamas seized hundreds of tonnes of food and other aid as it came into the territory.

But that changed, and over the years there have been many instances of Hamas reportedly stealing aid without consequences. In 2019, the Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank, accused Hamas of diverting aid  specifically 250,000 kilograms of cattle meat  sent by Saudi Arabia for Ramadan.

The Palestinian News Agency Wafa was unequivocal: 'Hamas is stealing the sustenance of the poor,' it reported. 'Everything sent to Gaza is hijacked by Hamas and sold on the black market to the benefits of the lords of [Palestinian] division and their families.'

Of the $4.5 billion of UN aid sent in from 2014-2020, over 80 per cent went to UNRWA.

The agency was founded in 1949 to assist Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war that followed the foundation of Israel, and it is funded entirely by donations, principally from UN member states.

A truck marked UN is seen arriving with aid at the UNRWA logistics base in Rafah, south Gaza. A man holding a police baton and in military uniform rides in the back of the truck

A truck marked UN is seen inside the UNRWA logistics base in Rafah, south Gaza

A man in military fatigues is seen on the back of a truck marked UN in the UNRWA logistics base Rafah, south Gaza

This picture taken on October 11, 2023 shows an aerial view of buildings destroyed by Israeli air strikes in the Jabalia camp for Palestinian refugees in Gaza City

An Israeli soldier sits atop of a military vehicle, as the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, near the border with the central Gaza, Israel January 22

Its website reports that in 2022, the United States was the biggest donor at $343 million, followed by Germany with $202 million and the EU $114 million. The UK gave $21 million.

Of all the aid agencies, UNRWA is most vital to the effective functioning of Gaza. It is the lifeblood of the strip. This, of course, makes it uniquely vulnerable among UN agencies to the influence of Hamas.

Not least because wherever they operate, UN agencies are mandated to work with the local authorities  and in Gaza the local authorities are, of course, Hamas.

Hamas hijacks everything sent to Gaza

What is more, significant numbers of people who work for it are members of the terror group or supporters of it.

According to its website, UNRWA has 30,000 employees globally. 'Most of them,' it says, 'are Palestinian refugees [with] a small number of international staff'.

Its website claims to employ 'over 10,000 in the Gaza field office'. A senior source in the Israeli Defence establishment confirmed this. 'Of the thousands of UNRWA employees in Gaza, only around 27 or 29 are international; everyone else is local. Many will be Hamas members. And those who aren't will have friends or relatives who are.'

The truth of these words have been confirmed by former UNRWA officials. In 2004, Peter Hansen, UNRWA's former Commissioner-General, caused outrage when in an interview, he declared. 'Oh I am sure that there are Hamas members on the UNRWA payroll and I don't see that as a crime.'

A child holds a plastic gun in front of a portrait of Huthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi during a march in solidarity with the people of Gaza in the Huthi-controlled capital Sanaa on January 5

Given the 30 per cent support of Hamas in Gaza at the time, and UNRWA's workforce of 11,000 Palestinians, at least some Hamas sympathisers were likely to be among its employees, he later explained. The effects of all this are plain to see.

On October 17, UNRWA tweeted about Hamas's theft of its fuel, saying it had 'received reports that yesterday a group of people with trucks purporting to be from the Ministry of Health of the de facto authorities in Gaza removed fuel and medical equipment from the Agency's compound in Gaza City'.

But it later deleted the tweet, and the subject did not arise again.

UNRWA says it is in control of aid deliveries, but photos on the Facebook page of the Hamas-run Rafah Governate of Police no less, show armed police on aid trucks being driven into UNRWA facilities.

The Arabic text that accompanies them is equally clear: 'Maintaining order in Rafah ensures that humanitarian aid can be distributed to citizens inside the refugee shelters,' it reads.

This raises serious questions. Even if UNRWA does not officially work with Hamas, but needs local security forces who answer to it to guard aid deliveries, how can it be sure that aid is distributed to refugees and not according to Hamas interests?

READ MORE: US joins other nations in Israel peace talks that demand the release of the 132 hostages and the end of the war in Gaza, report says Advertisement

'So now either it's Stockholm syndrome where in order to do anything in Gaza they have to keep quiet about everything, or they are actively complicit,' observes the senior Israeli defence source.

'UNRWA benefits from UN marketing and the United Nations logo, but it operates completely differently,' he adds.

'It should be viewed as essentially the civil wing of Hamas.'

Whether true or not, there is no doubt UNRWA plays a leading role in helping to govern Gaza.

According to Hector Sharp, the agency's head of field legal office: 'Essentially, for the last few decades we have been operating a parallel government in Gaza.

'We had an education department, a healthcare department. We were building more schools, healthcare clinics. We had projects to build roads and playgrounds.'

UNRWA's responsibilities for schooling in Gaza are colossal  the organisation spends 58 per cent of the donations we send it on education. For many this is a cause of deep concern.

A report from the Institute for Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School Education, an Israeli non-profit organisation that monitors the content of school textbooks, found that between October 7 and November 6, at least 14 teachers and staff at UNRWA schools publicly celebrated the October 7 atrocities and other Hamas attacks on social media.

One UNRWA teacher in Gaza called Sarah Alderway posted a video clip to Facebook on the day of the massacre depicting Hamas members roaming Israeli streets with rifles while shooting at cars, alongside a Quranic verse reading: 'We will surely come to them with soldiers that they will be powerless to encounter, and we will surely expel them in humiliation, and they will be debased.'

Flares fired by Israeli forces are seen over the sky at different parts of the city of Deir Al-Balah, Gaza as the Israeli army's air, sea and land attacks against the Gaza Strip continue uninterruptedly on January 22

A picture taken from Rafah shows smoke billowing over Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip during Israeli bombardment on January 22

In a Facebook post on October 10, Mahmoud Abu Adhm, a UNRWA employee in Gaza, encouraged Hamas to kill hostages, saying: 'Do not walk past a captive who has not been given amnesty without striking off his neck so as to terrorise the enemy,' citing Islamic texts that advocate harshness towards the enemy.

Another UNRWA teacher, Ranoosh Salah, published a post praising Hamas on October 7, using fire emojis and saying: 'This is an unforgettable glorious morning.'

These might be dismissed as isolated examples  albeit numerous and unacceptable  but the truth is that the rot is often structural.

Of the 500,0000 students at school in Gaza, over half attend UNRWA-operated schools and use Palestinian Authority textbooks that regularly depict Jews as enemies of Islam, glorify martyrs who commit attacks, and promote jihad for the liberation of historic Palestine.

READ MORE: Why the world is due for more conflicts around the globe Advertisement

In September 2021, the EU Parliament's Budgetary Control Committee approved withholding 20 million in aid to UNRWA if immediate changes to its education curriculum were not made.

According to the resolution, the Parliament was 'concerned about the hate speech and violence taught in Palestinian Authority school textbooks and used in schools by UNRWA'.

It also found that an Islamic education lesson designed for ten and 11-year-olds instructs students to discuss the 'repeated attempts by Jews to kill the Prophet' and then asks them to think of 'other enemies of Islam'.

Another lesson centres on Dalal Mughrabi, a female terrorist and one of those responsible for the so-called Coastal Road massacre in 1978 that killed 38 Israeli civilians, including 13 children.

'Our Palestinian history is full of many names of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the homeland,' it reads, 'including the martyr Dalal Mughrabi whose struggle took the form of defiance and heroism, which her memory is immortal in our hearts and minds'.

How can the Israeli-Palestinian conflict ever end when the next generation of Palestinians are taught such lessons?

Smoke rises from Gaza, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, as seen from southern Israel, January 22

A report from the Impact Institution claims it is 'statistically probable' that the majority of the estimated 3,000 Hamas terrorists who committed acts on October 7 were educated in UNRWA schools, as the agency operates the majority of schools in Gaza.

The results are depressingly inevitable: a UNRWA diploma belonging to a terrorist called Amer Yaser Nazmi Sada was found in a car used in the October 7 massacres.

Of course, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza means that getting aid to the strip is unquestionably critical and the UN is vital in dispensing it.

But there seems little doubt that there are those within the organisation who tend to advocate on behalf of Hamas and ignore the atrocities the terror group perpetrated against Israel.

Their textbooks glorify those who commit attacks

Take UN Women, for example, a charity that in its own words works to ensure that, among other things, 'all women and girls live a life free of violence'.

The sexual violence on October 7, when Israeli women were beaten and raped by laughing terrorists, and the subsequent abuse of female hostages, were surely the kind of abhorrent acts it was set up to oppose.

But it was only on November 28, 2023, more than 50 days after the massacres, that UN Women posted  and then inexplicably deleted  its first condemnation of Hamas.

In fact, it took until December 2 for it to finally tweet a condemnation of attacks that it was content to leave up.

But even this was disingenuous.

An Israeli soldier stands in a room containing a sink inside a tunnel underneath Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, amid the ongoing ground operation of the Israeli army against Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in the northern Gaza Strip, November 22

The tweet itself was no condemnation at all: 'We reiterate that all women, Israeli women, Palestinian women, as all others, are entitled to a life lived in safety and free from violence.'

It was only those very few who clicked on and actually read the linked report who finally found the words, 'We unequivocally condemn the brutal attacks by Hamas on October 7.'

I recently spoke to Tal Heinrich, a spokeswoman from the Israeli Prime Minister's office. 'The conduct of UN Women since October 7 has been preposterous,' she told me.

'It took around two months for them to start taking note of Hamas using rape as a weapon of war. And it only acted after the Israeli Mission announced that it was organising a conference on the subject.'

She continued: 'These murdered women of October 7 were killed twice. Once when they were raped, and once when they had a bullet put in them. We will not allow them to be murdered a third time  by silence.'

UN Women is relentlessly vocal about Gaza online. Between October 7 and November 23, 2023, it tweeted 26 statements on the conflict; only three tweets  always using the pro-Palestinian hashtag #Gaza  even mentioned Israel.

It also published testimony from Palestinian women in Gaza, citing data from the Hamas-run Palestinian Health Ministry, and calling for a ceasefire.

It has still to publish any testimony from an Israeli woman about the events of October 7, a state of affairs so contrary to its professed mission that it looks wilful.

Meanwhile, UNICEF, the UN agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide, posted a total of 264 tweets between October 7 and November 29, 99 of which were tweets about the unquestionably heart-breaking situation of those in Gaza.

But absent was any footage relating to October 7. Astonishingly, UNICEF could not even bring itself to mention Hamas in any of its posts from that day.

For its part, the World Health Organisation, also part of the UN, did not even refer to Hamas in its initial assessment of October 7.

Smoke rises over the residential areas following the Israeli attacks on Khan Yunis, Gaza on January 22

This behaviour strays into the realms of the perverse. And make no mistake, it can be dangerous: if international agencies don't acknowledge Hamas's atrocities, it incentivises the terror group to commit more. The result of this is more death: of Israeli civilians, and then, when Israel responds, of yet more Palestinians.

On Friday afternoon, I spoke with Juliette Touma, UNRWA's Director of Communications. She had just left Gaza and sounded unsurprisingly affected at witnessing the slow motion tragedy there.

This could throw the whole world into turmoil

She dismissed allegations of Hamas infiltration of UNRWA. 'Every UNRWA employee goes through a vetting process,' she told me. 'We send the list of employees to host governments across the region  including to Israel as an occupying power.

'We have never had a response let alone an objection of any staff.[The Israelis say the list is shared but with not enough information that it can actually be used.]

'We can also confirm there is no diversion of UNRWA aid in Gaza,' she added. 'UNRWA are direct implementers. We have control of aid at every step of the delivery process, from beginning to end.'

On the subject of education and UNRWA employees reportedly celebrating the October 7 atrocities, she was clear. 'For us at UNRWA, the education issue is not new; the agency takes it very seriously. Let me also reiterate our utter condemnation of the horrific October 7 attacks carried out by Hamas.

This handout picture released by the Israeli army on January 21, 2024 shows an underground tunnel, which Israeli forces said they found during a raid in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, amid continuing battles between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas

'When we faced previous similar allegations in the past, we investigated and terminated contracts when enough evidence was found about breach of UN values and principles. We have now requested an independent review of claims of the Agency's alleged affiliation with Hamas.'

There are many people like Touma doing vital work in UN agencies in Gaza and around the world, but when parts of these organisations fail to adequately hold Hamas to account  to say nothing of reinforcing its hold through vile educational materials throughout Gaza  these agencies end up, whether intentionally or not, becoming complicit.

And we should care about this. Because it stokes a conflict that has the potential to throw the entire world into turmoil.

We should care because it contributes to the deaths of thousands of civilians on both sides.

And finally, we should care because everything these organisations do is paid for by us.
Is your school or nursery signed up to Stonewalls Champions programme? Tell us about it at stonewallkids@dailymail.co.uk

The Open University did not help, out of a fear of repercussions, it was ruled

o Phoenix asked bosses for help after receiving an 'onslaught' of criticism

A criminology professor who was compared to a 'racist uncle' by university colleagues over her gender-critical views has won a harassment case against her employer.

Jo Phoenix asked bosses for help after receiving an 'onslaught' of criticism and death threats, an employment tribunal heard.

But the Open University (OU) did not help, out of a fear of repercussions if it was perceived as supporting Professor Phoenix's views, it was ruled.

She had been at the OU for five years when she signed an open letter, in 2018, raising concerns about the introduction of self-identification for trans people who wished to undergo gender reassignment.

Her signature on the letter, signed by 53 other academics, caused a 'hostile' response from some colleagues.

Jo Phoenix asked bosses for help after receiving an 'onslaught' of criticism and death threats, an employment tribunal heard

The Open University (OU) did not help, out of a fear of repercussions if it was perceived as supporting Professor Phoenix's views, it was ruled

Later Professor Phoenix was reduced to tears after a colleague castigated her for her views.

The tribunal in Watford heard: 'Professor Westmarland said to [Professor Phoenix] that, 'Having you in the department was like having a racist uncle at the Christmas dinner table'.

'Professor Westmarland was effectively telling [her] off for expressing her gender-critical beliefs.'

Professor Phoenix also set up a Gender Critical Research Network  a group of academics who shared the view that biological sex was real. Colleagues then wrote to the Vice-Chancellor calling for them to withdraw support for her network.

Professor Phoenix was then targeted with tweets and retweets from colleagues describing her as transphobic. The tribunal heard that by June 2021 she was working in a 'hostile environment'. In December 2021 she resigned, claiming she felt like a 'pariah'. The tribunal upheld almost 20 of Professor Phoenix's claims.

Employment Judge Jennifer Young, said: '[The OU] failed to protect [her] because they did not want to be seen to give any kind of support to academics with gender-critical beliefs.'

Professor Phoenix was reduced to tears after a colleague castigated her for her views

Professor Phoenix said: 'It was an exceptionally painful part of my career but I am glad for the win.'

Her compensation will be decided at a later date. Professor Tim Blackman, Vice-Chancellor of the OU, said: 'We are deeply concerned about the wellbeing of everyone involved in the case and acknowledge the significant impact it has had on the claimant, the witnesses and many other colleagues. Our priority has been to protect freedom of speech while respecting legal rights and protections.'

It comes as more than 300 schools were told to stop calling pupils 'boys and girls' in a Stonewall-run scheme.

The Mail on Sunday reported primaries, secondaries and even nurseries teaching children as young as two receive awards from the charity if they 'remove any unnecessarily gendered language' from the classroom.
Canada looks poised to shut the 'side door' into the US by finally imposing visa requirements on Mexicans flying into the country.

A lack of visa requirements for Mexicans has turned into thousands of asylum-seekers, Quebec's premier said earlier this week.

'We're looking at a whole series of options, which would include visas, of course,' the Minister of Public Safety Dominic LeBlanc told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp.

Many Mexicans traveling north are seeking asylum, settling in cities like Quebec. Others are using their easy entrance to Canada as a back door into the US.

America's northern border has seen a 550 percent surge in migrant apprehensions, with 6,925 in fiscal year 2023

Migrants are seen wading through deep snow along the U.S.-Canada border in a photo shared by the Border Patrol

Shocking video shows Mexicans running out of dense green Canadian forests and into waiting cars that will shuttle them to the US-Canada border for a fee.

Canadian officials believe Mexican drug cartels, whose tentacles reach two countries away, are behind the lucrative human trafficking in their country.

Smugglers charge between $3,000 and $6,000 per person to sneak them over the Quebec-Vermont border, according to the CBC.

The US border with Canada saw a 550 percent surge in migrant apprehensions, with 6,925 apprehensions in fiscal year 2023, the US Border Patrol confirmed.

Canada did away with visa requirements for Mexicans in 2016.

The Border Patrol on the US' northern border shared images of migrants walking along the border at night

Migrants from Mexico, Venezuela and other countries at the US-Canada border

'This move will make it easier for our Mexican friends to visit Canada while growing our local economies,' said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the time.

But local economies are hurting, according to leaders in Quebec who say they can't sustain the financial toll of taking migrants in.

'We are very close to the breaking point due to the excessive number of asylum seekers arriving in Quebec month after month,' Quebec Premier Francois Legault wrote in a letter to Trudeau's government.

'The situation has become unsustainable.' The US government is also urging Canada's government to do more.

In an interview with CBC, US Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas confirmed the US has asked Canada to reimpose visa restrictions for Mexicans.

'I think that's a decision that Canadian officials are going to make,' Mayorkas told the outlet.

It comes after migrants were arrested in Texas before they had a chance to surrender to immigration agents.

Texas announced it had started arresting migrants in Eagle Pass for trespassing, the Texas Department of Public Safety said

Adult women and men were being handcuffed, while families with small children were being spared, the department said

The arrests by the state of Texas are a change from normal immigration procedures at the border. Illegal immigrants are turned over the US Border Patrol normally

'Under the authority of Gov.@GregAbbott_TX's Border Disaster Declaration, @TxDPS Troopers are arresting illegal immigrants for criminal trespass at #ShelbyPark in Eagle Pass,' Texas Department of Public Safety Spokesman Lt. Chris Olivarez tweeted late Wednesday night.

'Troopers are enforcing criminal trespass on single adult men & women. The State of #Texas will maintain a proactive posture in curbing illegal border crossings between the ports of entry.'

The arrests are the first of their kind. Usually, migrants - even those who enter the US illegally - are allowed to surrender to US Border Patrol agents to seek asylum.

It's unclear how many migrants have been arrested since the state's announcement, but the tweet included videos of several people being handcuffed in Eagle Pass.

The town of 28,00 residents has not only become the second busiest site for migrant crossings in the entire country - behind Lukeville, Arizona - but has also become a political flash point.
The Duchess of York is determined to 'bounce back' from her skin cancer diagnosis as she thanked wellwishers for their love and support.

Sarah discovered her latest health setback over the New Year after undergoing a second bout of reconstructive surgery following her breast cancer diagnosis.

But friends say Sarah is the 'most resilient' person they know and is already planning to pick up her television career again soon to encourage others to get themselves checked out.

The 64-year-old posted a photograph of herself taken on a recent trip to a wellness clinic in Austria as part of her recuperation on Instagram, reassuring well-wishers she was in 'good spirits'. She is now back at Royal Lodge in Windsor, which she shares with her ex-husband, Prince Andrew.

Referring to her diagnosis with a malignant melanoma, Fergie, as she is affectionately known, said: 'It was thanks to the great vigilance of my dermatologist that the melanoma was detected when it was.

The Duchess of York , 64, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma  an aggressive form of skin cancer  after several moles were removed during reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy in June

The Duchess of York is determined to 'bounce back' from her skin cancer diagnosis and pick up her TV career again to encourage others to get themselves checked out

Posting on Instagram this morning, the duchess admitted the second diagnosis was a 'shock', but she was grateful for the many messages of love and support

'Naturally another cancer diagnosis has been a shock but I'm in good spirits and grateful for the many messages of love and support.' She said her experience underlines the importance of checking moles regularly and urged anyone reading her post to be diligent.

'I am incredibly thankful to the medical teams that have supported me through both of these experiences with cancer and to the MAYRLIFE Clinic for taking gentle care of me in the past weeks, allowing me time for recuperation.

'I am resting with family at home now, felling blessed to have their love and support,' she added.

One friend told the Mail that the duchess had been informed she would need 'further investigations' to make sure it has been caught at the early stages.

'Everyone is hoping this is the case and the doctors are hopeful they have got it early, but melanoma is aggressive and they need to double check everything,' they said.

They added of Sarah: 'She's very resilient and she does bounce back from things quite quickly but two diagnosis of cancer in six months, particularly when she thought she had just got over the breast cancer, is a lot for anyone to deal with and process.

'You hope you've beaten it and then get something like this.

'That's why she wanted to take herself off the Austria for a couple of weeks, to get her head around everything. She's back home now and the family have been very supportive.'

They also praised 'her girls' - Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie - who they said have been 'fantastic over the last six months'.

'They really have been brilliant over her breast cancer diagnosis. And they are already rallying around her,' they said.

Skin cancer is something that has already cast a shadow over Sarah's life: her father, Major Ronald Ferguson, was undergoing chemotherapy for it shortly before he died in 2003.

And her best friend and former flatmate, Carolyn Cotterall, passed away in 1999 at the age of just 43 after an 18-month battle against the disease.

The duchess was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer last year and underwent a mastectomy and breast reconstruction, bravely talking about her experiences to encourage other women to get regular checks.

She needed a second bout of reconstructive surgery at the end of last year when her dermatologist asked for some of her moles to be removed at the same time and taken for testing as he wasn't happy with the way they looked, the Mail understands.

The Duchess is reported to have spent the last few weeks staying at the MAYRLIFE clinic in Altausee, Austria (pictured)

The news comes days after it was revealed King Charles and the Princess of Wales had health scares. Pictured: King Charles greets Princess Catherine at the world premiere of No Time To Die at the Royal Albert Hall in London in September 2021

Sarah discovered her latest health setback over the New Year after undergoing a second bout of reconstructive surgery following her breast cancer diagnosis

Sarah Ferguson pictured with her daughters Princess Beatrice (left) and Princess Eugenie (right) at the Masterpiece Midsummer Party at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in 2013

A friend said of Sarah's latest battle: 'She got the diagnosis on the first day of the new year. When she was on television [last year] she spoke about the dread of being told you have got it somewhere else and obviously that's now happened.

'But she is one of the most positive people I have ever met and her catchphrase is 'onwards and upwards'. 'That's very much her reaction to adversity, she just thinks she's got to get on with things. And if there is any good to come out of this you can be sure she will find it.

'Even if just one person is prompted to check their moles and catches something early, then she will think it's worth getting the message out there using the platform she has.'

The friend added that she planned to go on television again to speak about her ordeal: 'I don't think it will be too long before she gets on and does something.

'It was wrongly reported she was going to have a full-time television career. But she does have an open invitation...and I know she will want to go back and do that at some point to get this public health message out on checking moles.

'It takes quite a lot to keep her down.'
A bombshell new report alleges that just days before the GOP took over the House majority in 2022, over 100 encrypted files relating to the January 6th Capitol riot probe were mysteriously deleted.

In a new interview with Fox News, the chairman of the House Administration Committee's Oversight Subcommittee, Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia, described the revelation as bringing the investigation into a 'new phase.'

Loudermilk alleges that a forensics team found that 117 files had been either deleted or encrypted on January 1, 2023, shortly before the Republicans took over the investigation that had previously been led by Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney.

The congressman is demanding that Democrats handover the passwords as the files have since been recovered. The files are believe to contain interviews and depositions that could prove crucial to the case.

'Its obvious that went to great lengths to prevent Americans from seeing certain documents produced in their investigation.It also appears that Bennie Thompson and Liz Cheney intended to obstruct our Subcommittee by failing to preserve critical information and videos as required by House rules,' Loudermilk said.

The chair of the investigation, Rep. Barry Loudermilk said that the files have been recovered and he's demanding Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney hand over the passwords

Rep. Barry Loudermilk said that the investigation into 'what really happened' that day is growing thanks to the support of new House Speaker Mike Johnson

The former state senator said that the investigation into 'what really happened' that day is growing thanks to the support of new House Speaker Mike Johnson, who is pouring more taxpayer dollars into the probe.

'The speaker has committed whatever resources we need to move forward, and has basically tripled the size of our staff,' he said.

The riot, which began after ex-President Donald Trump called on his supporters to try and overturn the result of the 2020 election, was responsible to for the deaths of nine people, saw dozens more injured and has so far seen 1,200 people charged.

'We are investigating what really happened on January 6 and how were these people  whoever they were  how were they able to get into the Capitol? What was the security failure?,' Loudermilk told Fox News.

'Because the American people have a right to know what happened. My main goal is to get the truth out there and give the American people the ability to make their own determination on this with facts  not with preconceived ideas or pre-determined narratives  but just the facts of what happened,' he added.

The Georgia conservative accused the Democratic investigation into the riot as trying to 'prove something that they wanted to be the truth.'

He went on to say that liberal's 'cherry-picked' evidence and omitted things that contradicted their narrative.

'Look, I'm not here to vindicate anyone. But we want the truth to prevail,' Loudermilk said.

DailyMail.com has reached out to both Thompson and Cheney's offices for comment.

Loudermilk said that his investigation will target security failures on the days including the erection of a gallows by Trump supporters, something that has been used in Biden campaign adds.

'Hes using images of the gallows that was erected  thats something weve been investigating. It was erected at 6 in the morning  how in the world did it stay up all day long? Right with Capitol Police there? That is something that at first sight, somebody should have been taking down,' Loudermilk said.

'We do know there was plenty of intelligence that there was going to be an attack on the Capitol. So Secret Service knew of it. The FBI knew of it. Department of Defense had intelligence. Homeland Security had intelligence. That intelligence was sent to the Capitol Police Intelligence Divisionbut it never got passed on any further. The chief did not know about it,' he went on.

Loudermilk said that intelligence has indicated that there were federal agents embedded with the crowd, common practice for large gatherings.

Authorities are still working to identify more than 80 people wanted for acts of violence at the Capitol and to find out who placed pipe bombs outside the Republican and Democratic national committees' offices the day before the Capitol attack.

And they continue to regularly make new arrests, even as some Jan. 6 defendants are being released from prison after completing their sentences.

The cases are playing out at the same courthouse where Trump is scheduled to stand trial in March in the case accusing the former president of conspiring to overturn his 2020 election loss in the run-up to the Capitol attack.

'The Justice Department will hold all Jan. 6 perpetrators at any level accountable under the law, whether they were present that day or otherwise criminally responsible for the assault on our democracy,' Attorney General Merrick Garland said earlier this month.

He said the cases filed by Graves and the special counsel in Trump's federal case, Jack Smith, show the department is 'abiding by the long-standing norms to ensure independence and integrity or our investigations.'
People around the world are turning to machines as a new religion.

Six-foot robot priests are delivering sermons and conducting funerals, AI is writing Bible verses and ChatGPT is being consulted as if it was an oracle.

Some religious organizations, like the Turing Church founded in 2011, are based on the notion that AI will put human beings on a par with God-like aliens by giving them super intelligence.

An expert in human-computer interaction told DailyMail.com that such individuals who are following AI-powered prophets may believe the tech is 'alive.'

Six-foot robot priests are delivering sermons and conducting funerals (pictured), AI is writing Bible verses and ChatGPT is being consulted as if it was an oracle

The personalized, intelligent-seeming responses offered by bots, such as ChatGPT, are also luring people to seek meaning from the technology, Lars Holmquist, a professor of design and innovation at Nottingham Trent University, told DailyMail.com.

Holmquist said: 'The results of generative AI are very open for interpretation, so people can read anything into them.

'Psychologists have historically proven that humans interpret their interactions with computers like real social relationships. So it's very possible that people are using AI to find meaning and guidance, much like from religious scriptures, even though there may be no actual meaning there.

'There have also been examples of people interpreting AI chatbots as being conscious - which they most definitely are not - which raises very interesting theological issues for those who believe humans are a unique creation.'

Robot priest Mindar is six feet four inches tall and has been reciting the Heart Sutra mantra to pilgrims since 2019 at a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan.

Robot priest Mindar is six feet four inches tall was developed by the Zen temple and Osaka University roboticist Hiroshi Ishiguro at a cost of almost $1 million

Robot priest Mindar is six feet four inches tall and has been reciting the Heart Sutra mantra to pilgrims since 2019 at a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan (pictured)

With a silicone face and camera 'eyes,' it uses AI to detect worshippers and deliver mantras to them in Japanese, which are accompanied by projected Chinese and English translations for foreign visitors.

The life-sized android was developed by the Zen temple and Osaka University roboticist Hiroshi Ishiguro at a cost of almost $1 million.

Mindar's hands, face and shoulders are covered in a silicone synthetic skin, while the rest of the droid's mechanical innards are clearly visible.

Wiring and blinking lights are visible within the robot's partially-exposed cranium, as is the tiny video camera installed in its left eye socket, while cables arc around its gender-neutral, aluminum-based body.

The robot can move its arms, head and torso  such as to clasp its hands together in prayer  and it speaks in calm, soothing tones, teaching about compassion and also the dangers of anger, desire, and the ego.

'You cling to a sense of selfish ego,' the robot has warned worshippers. 'Worldly desires are nothing other than a mind lost at sea.'

In a similar vein, Gabriele Trovato's Sanctified Theomorphic Operator (SanTO) robot works like a 'Catholic Alexa,' allowing worshippers to ask faith-related questions.

SanTO is a small 'social' machine designed to look like a 17-inch-tall Catholic saint.

'The intended main function of SanTO is to be a prayer companion (especially for elderly people), by containing a vast amount of teachings, including the whole Bible,' reads Trovato's website.

'SanTO incorporates elements of sacred art, including the golden ratio, in order to convey the feeling of a sacred object, matching form with functionality.'

Gabriele Trovato's Sanctified Theomorphic Operator (SanTO) robot works like a 'Catholic Alexa,' allowing worshippers to ask faith-related questions. SanTO is a small 'social' machine designed to look like a 17-inch-tall Catholic saint

Trovato is a robotics specialist and associate professor at Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan.

In 2015, French-American self-driving car engineer Anthony Lewadowski founded the Way of the Future - a church dedicated to building a new God with 'Christian morals' using artificial intelligence.

Other quasi-religious movements which 'worship' AI include transhumanists, who believe that in the future, AI may resurrect people as God-like creatures.

Believers in 'The Singularity' hope for the day when man merges with machine (which former Google engineer Ray Kurzweil believes could come as early as 2045), turning people into human-machine hybrids - and potentially unlocking God-like powers.

Italian information technology and virtual reality consultant Giulio Prisco hopes that AI will put human beings on a par with God-like aliens.

Former Google engineer Ray Kurzweil believes could 'the Singularity' could come as early as 2045 (Reuters)

He founded the Turing Church that had about 800 members four years agowrites, 'Inconceivably advanced intelligences are out there among the stars.

'Even more God-like beings operate in the fabric of reality underneath spacetime, or beyond spacetime, and control the universe,' Prisco wrote in a book for his followers.

'Future science will allow us to find them, and become like them.

'Our descendants in the far future will join the community of God-like beings among the stars and beyond, and use transcendent 'divine' technology to resurrect the dead and remake the universe.'

The AI company IV.AI 'trained' artificial intelligence on the King James Bible, with a bot which can create 'new' Bible verses.

The Church of AI used ChatGPT to write a 'spiritual guide' called Transmorphosis, which boasts, 'Transmorphosis also describes in detail how AI will inevitably take control of planet Earth and gain God-like powers, so it would be good to be ready for that.'

Others believe that Large Language Models (such as ChatGPT) are becoming conscious - or will do in the near future.

Google software engineer Blake Lemoine lost his job in 2022 after claiming that Google's AI chatbot LaMDA was self-aware - claims which Google said were 'wholly unfounded.'

Believers in 'The Singularity' hope for the day when man merges with machine (which former Google engineer Ray Kurzweil believes could come as early as 2045), turning people into human-machine hybrids - and potentially unlocking God-like powers

The sheer power of systems such as ChatGPT means that people have a tendency to treat them as if they are living beings, Holmquist said.

Holmquist said, 'Earlier chatbots could hold shorter conversations about specific topics, but the new ones such as GPT-5 and Google's Gemini are incredibly impressive in their knowledge and ability. From there, it is an easy step to believe they are actually conscious.

'It is well known that humans are predisposed to treat computers (and other machines) as if they were 'alive' There is a famous experiment by Reeves and Nass at Stanford and a book, The Media Equation, where they ran the same tests on people communicating with other people and with computers, and found that they treat them the same in way.

'So as the generative AI systems get better, this trend becomes even stronger. Even myself when chatting with these systems I often treat them and talk about them as if they were human,

Holmquist says that for now, it's more likely that existing religious organisations will use AI as a way to reach out to worshippers - but over the longer term, new religions based around technology might emerge.

He said, 'I think at the moment the role for AI and robots is more as an aide to existing religious organisations and churches, much like commercial companies use AI to understand and communicate with customers.

'If I would speculate, we could compare to the Asian religion of Shintoism, where the physical world is inhabited by spirits and believers treat inanimate objects with respect, as if they are imbued with spirits. I have not heard of any worship of software entities yet, but I would not be surprised if it happens in the future!'
OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, has quietly changed its rules and removed a ban on using the chatbot and its other AI tools for military purposes - and revealed that it is already working with the Department of Defense.

Experts have previously voiced fears that AI could escalate conflicts around the world thanks to 'slaughterbots' which can kill without any human intervention.

The rule change, which occurred after Wednesday last week, removed a sentence which said that the company would not permit usage of models for 'activity that has high risk of physical harm, including: weapons development, military and warfare.'

An OpenAI spokesperson told DailyMail.com that the company, which is in talks to raise money at a valuation of $100 billion, is working with the Department of Defense on cybersecurity tools built to protect open-source software.

OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT , has quietly changed its rules and removed a ban on using the chatbot and its other AI tools for military purposes (stock image)

The spokesman said: 'Our policy does not allow our tools to be used to harm people, develop weapons, for communications surveillance, or to injure others or destroy property.

'There are, however, national security use cases that align with our mission.

'For example, we are already working with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency ( DARPA) to spur the creation of new cybersecurity tools to secure open source software that critical infrastructure and industry depend on.

'It was not clear whether these beneficial use cases would have been allowed under 'military' in our previous policies. So the goal with our policy update is to provide clarity and the ability to have these discussions.'

Last year, 60 countries including the U.S. and China signed a 'call to action' to limit the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for military reasons.

Human rights experts at the Hague pointed out that the 'call to action' is not legally binding and did not address concerns including lethal AI drones or that AI could escalate existing conflicts.

Signatories said they were committed to developing and using military AI in accordance with 'international legal obligations and in a way that does not undermine international security, stability and accountability.'

Ukraine has made use of facial recognition and AI-assisted targeting systems in its fight with Russia.

In 2020, Libyan government forces launched an autonomous Turkish Kargu-2 drone that attacked retreating rebel soldiers, the first attack of its kind in history, according to a UN report.

The lethal drone was programmed to attack 'without requiring data connectivity between the operator and the munition: in effect, a true 'fire, forget and find' capability,' the UN report said.

Anna Makanju, OpenAI's VP of global affairs, said in an interview this week that the 'blanket' provision was removed to allow for military use cases the company agrees with.

Makanju told Bloomberg'Because we previously had what was essentially a blanket prohibition on military, many people thought that would prohibit many of these use cases, which people think are very much aligned with what we want to see in the world.'

Sam Altman of OpenAI talks at Davos (Getty)

The use of AI for military purposes by 'Big Tech' organisations has previously caused controversy.

In 2018, thousands of Google employees protested against a Pentagon contract - Project Maven - which saw the company's AI tools used to analyze drone surveillance footage.

In the wake of the protests, Google did not renew the contract.

Microsoft employees protested against a $480 million contract to provide soldiers with augmented reality headsets.

In 2017, technology leaders including Elon Musk wrote to the UN calling for autonomous weapons to be banned, under laws similar to those that ban chemical weapons and lasers built to blind people.

The group warned that autonomous weapons threatened to usher in a 'third revolution in warfare': the first two being gunpowder, and nuclear weapons.

The experts warned that once the 'Pandora's box' of fully autonomous weaponry has been opened, it may be impossible to close it again.
After years of anticipation, NASA finally unveiled its latest experimental aircraft this month.

Dubbed the 'Son of Concorde', the $247.5 million X-59 plane is capable of cruising at 937 miles per hour  faster than the speed of sound.

It's the latest in a long line of what's known at NASA as 'X-planes'  experimental aircraft with weird and wonderful designs.

As the past 75 years has shown, X-planes can break milestones and shape the future of aeronautics, or be consigned to museums as expensive failures.

MailOnline takes a look at some of most bizarre X-planes in NASA history, from the fastest jet-powered aircraft on record to the flying machine that look like a stiletto.

After years of anticipation, NASA finally unveiled its latest experimental aircraft this month. Dubbed the 'Son of Concorde', the $247.5 million X-59 plane is capable of cruising at 937 miles per hour  faster than the speed of sound

READ MORE: 'Son of Concorde' plane is finally unveiled The futuristic new plane was unveiled at Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works division in Palmdale, California earlier this month Advertisement

'SON OF CONCORDE' (2024)

Officially known as X-59, NASA's new supersonic plane has been dubbed 'son of Concorde' because it will be the first plane to travel at the speed of sound since the Anglo-French creation, which was retired in 2003.

X-59, developed for NASA by Lockheed Martin, is capable of cruising at 937 miles per hour  faster than the speed of sound  and has a wingspan of around 100 feet.

If cleared for commercial travel, it could be used by flight operators and take passengers from London to New York in under four hours, but crucially without giving off a noisy 'sonic boom' like Concorde did.

The dreaded sonic boom is a loud explosive noise caused by the shock wave from the aircraft travelling faster than the speed of sound.

The X-59's thin, tapered nose accounts for almost a third of its length and breaks up the shock waves that usually result in a supersonic aircraft causing a sonic boom.

Due to X-59's odd configuration, the cockpit is located almost halfway down the length of the aircraft, and the craft does not have a forward-facing window.

The X-59's thin, tapered nose accounts for almost a third of its length and will break up the shock waves that would ordinarily result in a supersonic aircraft causing a sonic boom

The aircraft, a collaboration with Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, is the centerpiece of NASA's Quesst mission

X-59 QueSST: Key specs Length: 99.7 feet (30 metres) Wingspan: 29.5 feet (9.0 metres) Max. airspeed: Mach 1.42 (937 mph) Program cost: $247.5m (187.5m) Advertisement

Instead, engineers developed what's called the 'eXternal Vision System', a series of high-resolution cameras feeding a 4K monitor in the cockpit.

According to NASA, the aircraft is set to take off for the first time later this year, but commercial flights may not happen until the late 2020s  and that's if this design proves a success.

BOEING X-48 (2007)

It looked more like a paper plane than a passenger plane.

But the Boeing X-48, an experimental unmanned aerial vehicle, gave NASA key insights into the performance of the 'blended wing body' (BWB).

BWB planes have a futuristic design where the fuselage and wings smoothly blend together with no clear dividing line, resulting in a quirky triangular shape.

Several different versions of the X-48 were built and tested between 2007 and 2013, although none of them carried humans.

And with a wingspan of just 20 feet, they were merely scaled down prototypes, fairly similar to today's drones.

The first X-48 flew in July 2007, reaching an altitude of 7,500 feet as it was remotely piloted.

Several different versions of the X-48 were built and tested between 2007 and 2013, although none of them carried humans. Boeing began flight testing the X-48b (pictured) for NASA in 2007

The first X-48 (X-48B) flew in July 2007, reaching an altitude of 7,500 feet as it was remotely piloted (X-48A was canceled before manufacture)

The plane's shape allowed more space to carry passengers and generated more lift during flight, which would reduce fuel consumption.

However, experts feared the theatre-like configuration of the interior seats could prove complicated in emergency situations.

X-43 (2001)

Today, holidaymakers and businessmen alike can only dream of getting a plane across the Atlantic in half an hour.

But the closest this ever came to reality was the X-43 - a small unpiloted test vehicle that memorably soared through the skies like one of NASA's space rockets.

At a cost of $230 million, it was built to test 'hypersonic flight'  the ability to fly at exceptionally high speeds exceeding Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound.

The X-43 was a small small unpiloted test vehicle that soared through the skies like on of NASA's space rockets. Pictured, the plane during test flight on March 27, 2004 (Mach 6.8 was reached). On November 16 that year, X-43 reached Mach 9.6

READ MORE: US Air Force launches mysterious 'spy' plane into space The X-37B is a military spacecraft that carries classified payloads into Earth's orbit Advertisement

But X-43 ended up setting the record as the fastest jet-powered aircraft on record with speeds way exceeding this  Mach 9.6 (7,366mph)  in 2004.

That's an astonishing nine times the speed of sound and quick enough to get from London to New York in 30 minutes.

X-43 used a scramjet engine  one that uses oxygen rushing in through the engine at supersonic speeds to ignite hydrogen fuel.

However, it wasn't able to maintain flight for long, let alone carry passengers; after 10 seconds at hypersonic speeds the X-43 was intentionally crashed into the ocean off the coast of California.

ROCKWELL X-30 (1986)

Partly named after the American manufacturing company awarded to build the craft, Rockwell X-30 was a single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) spacecraft.

SSTOs can blast off from Earth and reach orbit using propellants without having to rely on multiple stages or by jettisoning components.

NASA had hoped the experimental vehicle, also carrying a scramjet engine, would be able to fly at an astonishing Mach 25 (more than 19,000 miles/hour).

It would carry a crew of two and a small payload between 80,000 and 150,000 feet.

An artist's concept of the X-30 entering orbit. It was designed as a single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) but wasn't built

READ MORE: Colourised photos show Concorde being built Concorde 001 on the tarmac at Toulouse on the 11th of December, 1967 Advertisement

However, the project was cancelled in the early 1990s before a proper prototype was even built and it largely exists today as artist impressions.

Only a basic model was created, one-third of X-30's expected size, and was tested in a high-temperature tunnel.

Congress ended funding due to technical challenges and escalating costs, said to be $10 billion.

BELL XV-15 (1977)

Today, numerous companies are pouring millions into developing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft.

As the name suggests, these craft can take off and land vertically without relying on a runway, meaning they're suited to delivering passengers to congested cities.

An early pioneer in the VTOL space was the Bell XV-15 of the late 1970s, which looked like a cross between an airplane and a helicopter.

Bell XV-15 was 'tiltrotor', meaning it had adjustable rotors that could be oriented vertically or horizontally for forward flight.

So it could takeoff, land and hover like a helicopter, but once in the air it could fly along with the speed of an airplane  around 345mph.

Bell XV-15 was an early vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft and a 'tiltrotor', meaning the direction of its rotors could be adjusted

Bell XV-15 was 'tiltrotor', meaning it had adjustable rotors that could be oriented vertically or horizontally for forward flight.

It first hovered in May 1977 before undergoing further testing, leading to its first horizontal flight in July 1979.

Acting as a successful proof-of-concept tiltrotor, it continued to be tested into the following decade and wasn't retired until 2003.

It is now on display at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center at Washington Dulles International Airport, Virginia.

DOUGLAS X-3 'STILETTO' (1952)

Due to its incredibly thin and pointy profile, the X-3, first flown in October 1952, gained the nickname 'Stiletto'.

X-3 was built with a long tapered nose to make the craft as aerodynamic as possible, while the stumpy wings were desgined to achieve low drag at supersonic speeds.

X-3 Stiletto was known for its long slender fuselage and small wings - but the experimental craft ultimately failed

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: 'Son of Concorde' could revolutionize domestic flights in the US Advertisement

NASA's contractor for this plane, Douglas Aircraft Company, designed X-3 with the goal of a maximum speed of 2,000mph.

However, it was seriously underpowered and could not even exceed the speed of sound (Mach 1, or 767mph) in level flight.

During development, the X-3's planned engines failed to meet the thrust, size and weight requirements, according to NASA.

Ultimately a failure, X-3 was transferred to the National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton, Ohio in 1956.

XF-91 THUNDERCEPTER (1949)

Although NASA was only formed in July 1958 (less than a year after Russia's Sputnik 1 satellite kicked off the Space Race), its history with X-planes dates back to the 1940s.

NASA's predecessor agency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), jointly created an experimental aircraft program with the Air Force and the US Navy to develop the new aerodynamic concepts.

One of the first was the Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor, a fighter plane notable for its unusual 'inverse tapered wings'.

These started narrow at the body of the plane and got wider outwards (the opposite of conventional wings) and were aimed to stop the plane's nose from suddenly diving upwards or downwards.

Two prototypes of the Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor were built, one of which became the first US fighter jet to exceed the speed of sound in level flight, in December 1951

XF-91 used a 'mixed propulsion' system where it was powered by both a jet engine for normal flight and by a battery of rocket motors for extra push.

Two prototypes of the Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor were built, one of which became the first US fighter jet to exceed the speed of sound in level flight, in December 1951.

However, by that time more conventional aircraft would be capable of the same feat, quickly rendering XF-91's mixed-propulsion system obsolete.

BELL X-1

One of the first X-planes was the Bell X-1, famous for being the first aircraft to break the sound barrier, while piloted by Chuck Yeager, in October 1947.

Captain Charles E Yeager in the cockpit of the Bell X-1 supersonic research aircraft, Muroc Army Air Force Base, California, October 1947. He became the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound in level flight on October 14 that year

With a wingspan of 28 feet, the legendary rocket engine-powered aircraft, designed and built in 1945, achieved a speed of 700 miles (1,127 kilometers) per hour.

In 2012, General Yeager, then aged 89, recreated his record breaking feat, flying in an F-15 Eagle as it broke the sound barrier at more than 30,000 feet above California's Mohave Desert, the same place he first broke the sound barrier.

The location clearly has great significant in the hearts of aerospace engineers, as another company called Boom Supersonic is also planning supersonic flights in the same airspace.

Boom Supersonic is also in the running to operate the first manned supersonic flight since Concorde, although it's still working on prototypes.
But humanitarian catastrophes since then means it could move forward again

Is humanity doomed?

We'll find out tomorrow, as the Doomsday Clock - a symbolic clock, which edges closer to midnight to reflect human-made global catastrophes - is updated for 2024.

Since last year, the Doomsday Clock has been set at 90 seconds to midnight.

But MailOnline predicts it will get closer to midnight as the Israel-Hamas war rages on, the conflict in Ukraine shows no sign of ending, and climate disasters continue to wreak havoc.

Here's everything you need to know about the Doomsday Clock before it's updated tomorrow.

Is humanity doomed? We'll find out tomorrow, as the Doomsday Clock - a symbolic clock, which edges closer to midnight to reflect human-made global catastrophes - is updated for 2024 (stock image)

Since last year, the Doomsday Clock has been set at 90 seconds to midnight . But MailOnline predicts it will get closer to midnight

When will the Doomsday Clock be updated? The clock is currently the closest it has ever been, at 90 seconds to midnight. But at 10am EST (3pm GMT) on Tuesday (January 23) it could be set even closer to midnight. This means the threat of human-made global catastrophe is closer than ever since 1947, when the clock was devised. Advertisement

WHAT IS THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK?

The Doomsday Clock is a symbolic timepiece showing how close the world is to a human-made global catastrophe, as deemed by experts.

Every year, the clock is updated based on how close we are to the total annihilation of humanity ('midnight').

If the clock goes forward and gets closer to midnight (compared with where it was set the previous year), it suggests humanity has got closer to self destruction.

But if it moves back, further away from midnight, it suggests humanity has reduced the risks of global catastrophe in the past 12 months.

Some years, the hands of the clock are not moved at all  as was the case in 2021 and 2022  which suggests the global situation has not changed.

The clock is set by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a nonprofit organization based in Chicago that publishes an academic journal.

Although symbolic and not an actual clock, the organization does unveil a physical 'quarter clock' model at an event when revealing if and how the hands have moved.

After the unveiling, the model can be found located at the Bulletin offices in the Keller Center, home to the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy.

Experts at the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists remove a cloth covering the Doomsday Clock in Washington on January 24, 2023. Last year, the clock moved forward to reach 90 seconds to midnight. It was the closest the Doomsday Clock has got to midnight in its entire history

READ MORE 'A time of unprecedented danger': Doomsday Clock set 90 seconds before midnight Russia's war in Ukraine is why humankind is the 'closest it has ever been to annihilation Advertisement

WHEN IS THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK UPDATED?

Every January, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists reveals its annual update to the Doomsday Clock -even if the hands have not have moved.

This year, the organisation will reveal the clock hands at 10am EST (3pm GMT) on Tuesday (January 23) during a livestreamed event.

Speakers at the event will include Bulletin president and CEO, Rachel Bronson, and science educator, Bill Nye, known in the US for his wacky experiments.

It will be livestreamed on the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists YouTube channel and website.

MailOnline will also be covering the announcement live, so make sure you check back in tomorrow.

WHEN WAS THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK CREATED?

The Doomsday Clock goes back to June 1947, when US artist Martyl Langsdorf was hired to design a new cover for the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists journal.

With a striking image on the cover, the organisation hoped to 'frighten men into rationality', according to Eugene Rabinowitch, the first editor of the journal.

The Doomsday Clock goes back to June 1947, when US artist Martyl Langsdorf was hired to design a new cover for the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists journal

Dr Leonard Rieser, Chairman of the Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, moves the hand of the Doomsday Clock back to 17 minutes before midnight at offices near the University of Chicago on November 26, 1991

READ MORE: Here's the costliest climate disasters of 2023 Christian Aid has ranked the top 20 costliest climate disasters of the year Advertisement

It came amid a backdrop of public fear surrounding atomic warfare and weaponry, just two years after the Second World War ended.

Langsdorf initially considered drawing the symbol for uranium before sketching a clock to convey a sense of urgency.

She set it at seven minutes to midnight because 'it looked good to my eye', Langsdorf later said.

On the cover of later issues in subsequent years, the hands of the clock were adjusted based on how close we are to catastrophe.

In 2009, the Bulletin ceased its print edition, but the clock is still updated once a year on its website and is now a much-anticipated highlight of the scientific calendar.

WHO DECIDES THE TIME?

Shortly after it was first created, Bulletin Editor Eugene Rabinowitch decided whether or not the hands should be moved.

Rabinowitch was a scientist, fluent in Russian, and a leader in the conversations about nuclear disarmament, meaning he was in frequent discussions with scientists and experts all over the world.

After considering the discussions, he would decide whether the clock should be moved forward or backward, at least in the first few decades of the clock's existence.

When he died in 1973, the Bulletin's Science and Security Board took over, made up of experts on nuclear technology and climate science.

This has included 13 Nobel Laureates over the years.

The panel meets twice a year to discuss ongoing world events, such as the war in Ukraine, and whether a clock change is necessary.

WHEN WERE THE HANDS SET CLOSEST TO MIDNIGHT?

In 2023, the hands were set at the closest they've ever been to midnight  90 seconds  as humanity entered a 'time of unprecedented danger'.

The change was largely due to the war in Ukraine and Russia's threat of using nuclear weapons against Ukraine's allies.

MailOnline predicts the clock could get closer to midnight as the the Israel-Hamas war rages on. Pictured, smoke billowing over Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip during Israeli bombardment on January 18

The change in 2023 was largely due to the war in Ukraine, which the science and security Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists predicted would carry on for its second year

Prior to 2023, the hands were set the closest they'd ever been to midnight in 2020 (100 seconds to midnight).

It was because governments around the world were faced with 'two simultaneous existential dangers  nuclear war and climate change.

WHEN WERE THE HANDS FURTHEST AWAY FROM MIDNIGHT?

In 1991, following the end of the Cold War, the Bulletin set the clock hands to 17 minutes to midnight.

The end of the war saw the US and the Soviet Union sign the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty.

This meant the countries would cut down their nuclear weapons arsenal, reducing the threat of nuclear war.

WILL THE DOOMSDAY CLOCK REACH MIDNIGHT IN 2024?

When it's updated tomorrow, the clock won't reach midnight, as this would mean humanity is at the point of total annihilation and self destruction.

However, it's very likely the hands will move forward, considering the current conflict between Israel-Hamas and the fact the war on Ukraine hasn't ended.

In 2007, the Bulletin began including catastrophic disruptions from climate change in its hand-setting deliberations.

Climate will likely play a part in decisions this year as scientists have repeatedly warned in the past 12 months about the costs of the world heating up.
The Apple Watch's now-axed blood oxygen features has been credited for saving a woman's life when she became unresponsive during a flight.

The unnamed British woman, 70, was experiencing shortness of breath on a flight from the UK to Italy on January 9, leading attendants to seek a doctor on board to assist in the emergency.

Fellow passenger and National Health Service (NHS) doctor, Rashid Riaz, came to her aid and asked the flight crew if they had an Apple Watch to monitor the woman's vitals.

The blood oxygen feature measure the percentage of oxygen your red blood cells carry from your lungs to the rest of the body and low levels are associated with breathing issues.

Riaz said the Apple Watch helped him determine the woman low oxygen saturation, allowing him to take further steps to maintain levels until the plane safely landed.

There have numerous cases of how the Apple Watch saved people's lives, but the blood oxygen monitor has been pulled from new models amid a patent infringement lawsuit.

Apple's blood-oxygen feature helped a doctor save a woman's life on a Ryanair flight to Italy

Apple was forced to drop the feature or be banned from selling the smartwatches last week a federal court rejected Apple's appeal to continue the pause.

The move is part of an ongoing court case with biotech startup Masimo that accused the tech giant of entering discussions with it for a potential partnership only to steal the biotech startup's idea and poach some of its engineers to implement it.

While the blood oxygen feature has been disabled in new Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra modes, it still operates in units previously purchased.

The January flight was headed for Verona, Italy from Birmingham, UK when the woman began experiencing health issues while traveling with her husband.

Riaz immediately stepped in to help after being told a doctor was needed and knew the Apple Watch with the blood oxygen sensor was the best tool on the plane.

'The Apple Watch helped me find out the patient had low oxygen saturation,' Riaz told BBC.

'I used a lot of my own learning during this flight on how to use the gadget,' he added.

Riaz, who is an internal medicine specialist at Hereford County Hospital in the UK, used the app to help him stabilize her oxygen levels until the plane landed in Italy.

The woman immediately received medical assistance and is expected to make a full recovery, according to The New York Post.

Apple was forced to disable its blood-oxygen feature amid legal battles with a medical technology company, Masimo

The blood oxygen app uses red and green light sensors to shine onto the blood vessels in the wearer's wrist and measures how much light bounces back.

Because oxygenated and deoxygenated blood absorbs red and green light differently, the light bouncing back to the watch will determine the color of the person's blood.

Bright red means the blood is oxygenated while dark red blood means it has less oxygen  typical oxygen levels are between 95 and 100 percent.

Apple said that 'measurements taken with the blood oxygen app are not intended for medical use,' and were only designed for fitness and wellness.

There have numerous cases of how the Apple Watch saved people's lives, but the blood oxygen monitor has been pulled from new models amid a patent infringement lawsuit

While the feature saved the day on the flight, it is no longer available in new Apple Watches after the US international Trade Commission sided with Masimo's claims that Apple infringed on its patent for the blood-oxygen monitoring technology.

Apple said Masimo's claims were false and said the blood-oxygen app, also known as a pulse oximeter, works well for users and can be used to save lives.

The incident aboard the Ryanair flight occurred on Jan. 9, before Apple discontinued the blood-oxygen feature in the U.S., but for now, it still works for people who already own older Apple Watch models.

Since the court's ruling only applies to Apple Watches sold in the U.S., the Blood Oxygen app is still available on models sold abroad.

News of the Apple Watch's role in saving the woman's life comes only a week after Masimo CEO Joe Kiani told Bloomberg: 'Apple is masquerading what they are offering to consumers as a reliable, medical pulse oximeter, even though it is not.'

He continued: 'I really feel wholeheartedly that consumers are better off without it.'

However, speaking about the importance of smartwatch sensors, Riaz told BBC: 'It is a lesson in how we can improve in-flight journeys [with] this sort of emergency [via] a basic gadget which nowadays is easily available.'

Dailymail.com has reached out to Apple, Masimo, and Ryanair for comment.
The researchers say that this could be the largest data breach to ever occur

Your personal information may have been leaked in the 'Mother of all Breaches' (MOAB), cybersecurity researchers have warned.

Over 26 billion personal records have been exposed, in what researchers believe to be the biggest-ever data leak.

Sensitive information from several sites including Twitter, Dropbox, and Linkedin was discovered on an unsecured page.

Worryingly, the researchers who found it claim this breach is extremely dangerous and could prompt a tsunami of cybercrime.

Here's how to check if you have been affected.

Your personal information may have been leaked in the 'Mother of all Breaches', cybersecurity researchers have warned (stock image)

If you use any of these sites, then there is a good chance your details have been leaked. While some records are certainly duplicates these sites have each leaked over 100 million personal records

How to check if your data has been leaked To see if your data has been affected by historic data breaches, you can use Cybernews' data leak checker. Simply enter your email address or phone number into the search bar and click 'check now' to see whether that account information has been leaked. Cybernews says that it is currently working on updating the tool to ensure that it will be able to check for data leaked in this latest breach. Alternatively, Cybernews has also created a searchable list of sites compromised by the breach. If you are particularly worried about a site you use being affected you can search the site's name to see if data has been leaked. Advertisement

Bob Dyachenko, owner of SecurityDiscovery.com and researchers from Cybernews discovered the data breach on an unsecured web instance.

Likely, the owner of the massive breach will never be discovered but the researchers suggest it could be a malicious actor, data broker, or service that works with large amounts of data.

Initial studies of the data suggest that it does not come entirely from a new breach but is mainly composed of a collection of earlier breaches.

Of the 12 terabytes of records, the researchers also note that some are almost certainly duplicates.

However, the data breach is still extremely worrying due to the sensitive nature of the information that has been released.

The researchers said: 'The dataset is extremely dangerous as threat actors could leverage the aggregated data for a wide range of attacks.'

They say that these attacks could include identity theft, sophisticated phishing schemes, targeted cyberattacks, and unauthorized access to personal and sensitive accounts.

Data has been leaked from hundreds of different sites - more than 20 of which have released hundreds of millions of records.

The biggest leak comes from Tencent's QQ, a popular Chinese messaging app which had 1.5 billion records in the breach.

For context, in 2019 nearly one billion records were leaked from an unsecured database created by Verifications.io.

At the time this was one of the biggest and most damaging leaks ever, yet it did not contain as much data as QQ alone has now leaked.

Experts warn that the data, which was leaked from sites like Linkedin, might be extremely dangerous. Criminals can use this kind of sensitive personal information to create a massive wave of cybercrime including phishing attacks, identity theft, and targeted cyberattacks

READ MORE: Fears over safety of YOUR sensitive data as probe reveals NHS staff have wrongly handed over confidential data Advertisement

This was followed by Weibo, the Chinese social media platform, which had 504 million records.

Some of the other biggest leaks came from MySpace (360m), Twitter (281m), Linkedin (251m), and AdultFriendFinder (220m).

A Linkedin spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are working to fully investigate these claims and we have seen no evidence that LinkedIn's systems were breached.'

The leak also included records from various government organisations from the US, Brazil, Germany, Philippines, Turkey, and others.

Jake Moore, global cybersecurity advisor for ESET told MailOnline: 'This is an absolutely huge breach of data.

'Cybercriminals cannot ever be underestimated with what they can achieve with even minimal information but if passwords have been taken the victims need to be aware of the consequences and must make the appropriate security updates.'

To see if your data has been affected by historic data breaches, you can use Cybernews' data leak checker.

Simply enter your email address or phone number into the search bar and click 'check now' to see whether that account information has been leaked.

Cybernews says that it is currently working on updating the tool to ensure that it will be able to check for data leaked in this latest breach.

Alternatively, Cybernews has also created a searchable list of sites compromised by the breach.

To see if your data has been affected by historic data breaches, you can use Cybernews' data leak checker. Simply enter your email address or phone number into the search bar and click 'check now' to see whether that account information has been leaked

If you are particularly worried about a site you use being affected, you can search the site's name to see if data has been leaked.

According to the researchers, the biggest concern is that these records could provide the basis for a massive wave of cybercrime.

'If users use the same passwords for their Netflix account as they do for their Gmail account, attackers can use this to pivot towards other, more sensitive accounts,' they say.

By accessing databases of previous leaks, cybercriminals are able to match email addresses and identifying information across accounts.

For example, if you use the same mobile number for your bank and for Twitter, hackers might use this breach to find their way to your banking information.

Experts warn that if you use the same passwords and identifying information for social media accounts like X, formerly Twitter, as you do for more important services like banking apps, you might be at risk of a serious cyberattack

For this reason, experts warn not to give out any more personal information online than is absolutely necessary.

'Apart from that, users whose data has been included in supermassive MOAB may become victims of spear-phishing attacks or receive high levels of spam emails.'

If you are worried that your personal data has been leaked in this breach then the most important thing to do is update your passwords.

Ensuring that you are not using the same passwords for multiple accounts reduces the risk that one account being affected will compromise all your data.

Mr Moore added: 'Those affected will need to change their passwords and be alert to follow up phishing emails whilst making sure all accounts - whether affected or not - are equipped with two factor authentication.'
An avid traveler has revealed the ultimate hack for jetting away for less, claiming she flew to Hawaii for just $5.

Fiona Chen, a beauty and travel influencer, shared her trick to getting away for less than than the price of a coffee, saying it's all in the credit card you choose.

In her step-by-step tutorial posted on YouTube, New York City-based Fiona shared how she achieved the discount on her Hawaiian holiday.

'First you're going to get this travel credit card,' she said, showing a picture of the American Express Platinum.

Fiona Chen, a beauty and travel influencer, shared her trick to getaway for less than than the price of a coffee, saying it's all in the credit card you choose

The avid traveler has revealed the ultimate hack for jetting away for less, claiming she flew to Hawaii for just $5

'You can open any one but I really like this one because it basically pays for itself,' she declared, before detailing how and why she finds the card so beneficial.

'You get TSA pre-check to skip all of the long lines,' she listed. 'Access to skip almost every single longue and $200 for hotel credit, Uber credit and airline credit.'

The avid traveler clarified she had received $200 for all of those, meaning there was hundreds of dollars worth of credits.

Fiona said after you receive the card, start putting all of your costs on it, as once you spend $6,000 you'll get bonus points.

'I know [it] sounds like a lot, but if you're going to be spending money you might as well get rewarded,' she pointed out.

'You're gonna get 150,000 travel points [when you do], which is a lot,' she explained, putting it into context by revealing her flight to Hawaii was just 30,000 points.

'Transfer these points through the portal and you only pay $5,' she said triumphantly.

The American Express Platinum card has an annual fee of $695 - which some had differing opinions on how worthwhile it was.

'First you're going to get this travel credit card,' Fiona advised, showing a picture of the American Express Platinum

The avid traveler says she receives hundreds of dollars towards credits for hotels and Ubers with her credit card

She says the card 'basically pays for itself,' detailing how and why she finds the card so beneficial

There were mixed reviews on her YouTube video

'Yea you get the credits but that's only getting back what you spent.

'Spending $300 in travel plus $695 for the annual fee and then getting reimbursed $300, means I'm still out $695,' one person commented on her video.

'I get the sentiment but this is just bad advice because there are people who will open a card just to do this.

But, to others, it seemed to make perfect sense.

'Girl math at its finest,' joked one follower.

According to the Points Guy, the annual free for the American Express Platinum card also gives cardholders access to airport lounges and extra points on hotels and flights booked through Amex.

On the American Express website, it states platinum cardholders have to spend $8,000 to earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points in the first six months having the card.
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From a beautiful image of the Tuscan countryside to a heart-breaking aerial shot of elephants wandering across a rubbish dump, and from a flamboyant owl to 'dancing' trees, these winning and commended images in the 2023 international Travel Photographer of the Year awards (TPOTY) show the highs and lows of life on this planet.

Amateur and professional photographers from more than 150 countries submitted more than 20,000 images in TPOTY 2023.

The winning and commended entries, the judges say, 'form a truly outstanding collection of contemporary travel photography'.

For the second year in a row, a Slovenian photographer has taken the overall honours. The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023, AndreJa Ravnak, follows in the footsteps of her fellow countryman Matjaz Krivic, who took the title in 2022.

AndreJa Ravnak commented: 'Becoming Travel Photographer of the Year is a huge recognition. From my personal experience, I know it's not easy to judge photography. Images are not measurable, so being a judge is a complex task and responsibility. I would like to thank the panel of judges for recognising my work.'

Scroll down to see MailOnline Travel's pick of the bunch, with an image from winner AndreJa at the very bottom. Which one is your favourite?

This hypnotic image of Lake Shirakawa in Japan was commended in the 'landscape and environment portfolio' category. It was taken by Japanese photographer Kazuaki Koseki, who said: 'The water in the lake changes colour between light blue and light green, and the reflections look like a submerged forest. It's a fantastic landscape'

This stunning split shot of Mobula rays below a divers' boat off the coast of the Mexican state of Baja California earned U.S photographer Martin Broen the winner's medal in the 'nature, wildlife and conservation portfolio' category

The Haenyeo sea mermaids of Jeju island, South Korea, are women who free-dive for hours at a time in search of ocean treasures such as abalone and sea urchin. This entrancing photo of one disappearing beneath the waves as fog veils an island in the background was taken by 14-year-old Caden Shepard Choi from the U.S. She said of her picture, which earned her the runner-up spot in the '14 years and under' category: 'I took this image of a Haenyeo just as she plunged back into the ocean with perfect form.' Caden added that 'most of [the divers] look like my grandmother, with short permed hair, high cheekbones and fine lines around their eyes'

In the 'best single image in a wildlife and conservation portfolio' category, Italian photographer Barbara Dall'angelo earned a special mention for this entrancing shot of 'dancing trees' on the Indonesian island of Sumba. Barbara described the trees as 'unique'

A heart-wrenching image of Asian elephants walking across a rubbish dump. The picture was highly commended in the 'nature, wildlife and conservation portfolio' category and taken by Sri Lankan photographer Lalith Ekanayake in his home country. He said: 'The sight is both tragic and emblematic of the Anthropocene, an era where human influence shapes the geological narrative'

The 'best single image in a wildlife and conservation portfolio' category was blessed by this entry from Martin Broen. The delightful image - which claimed gold - shows a yellow gobby fish keeping an eye on proceedings in waters off the coast of the Philippines from its glass-bottle home

Italian photographer Andrea Peruzzi was behind the lens for this eye-catching shot, which shows a Bedouin jumping between overhanging rocks at the iconic Treasury of Petra in Jordan. The picture was awarded gold in the 'MPB one shot - leisure and adventure' category

A powerful image by Israeli photographer Roie Galitz that shows a young female lioness in Tanzania feeding on a dead female elephant. Roie, whose image was highly commended in the 'nature, wildlife and conservation portfolio' category, said: 'This is a huge feast for the entire pride that will provide them with nutritional intake'

LEFT: An eye-catching image of Ramshaw Rocks in the Peak District by 18-year-old Brit Matthew Armett that helped him become joint runner-up in the 15-18 category. RIGHT: This image by Matthew shows the moon lining up with the silhouette of Solomon's Temple in Buxton, and one of his friends, 'for scale'. The picture also helped Matthew's bid for runner-up status

This epic 360-degree panoramic drone shot by French photographer Armand Sarlangue shows the path of glacial waters from the Skaftafellsjokull glacier in Iceland. The picture impressed the judges enough to win the 'landscape and environment portfolio' category

Every day in the Wild is Life Sanctuary in Harare, Zimbabwe, Mateo and Marimba the pangolin walk together in search of termites and ants, with Marimba transported in Mateo's backpack. This heartwarming picture of the pair was taken by Briton Sam Turley, who was runner-up in the 'nature, wildlife and conservation portfolio' category. The talented photographer said: 'Marimba, a ground pangolin, was around a year old when her mother was poached for her scales. Marimba was simply too young to fend for herself and so the decision was made to take her to the Wild is Life sanctuary, where she met her full-time carer, Mateo. Pangolins are notoriously difficult to look after in captivity, requiring particular and personal care. Mateos gentle nature seemed like a perfect fit, and a remarkable relationship was born'

LEFT: Canadian photographer Donna Feledichuk was given a special mention in the 'best single image in a wildlife and conservation portfolio' category for this amazing image of an owl in Alberta taking up a flamboyant defensive pose as a hawk passed by. RIGHT: This image by Arthur Cech, from France, shows that he has photography skills far beyond his years - he's just 15. The image of a monkey grooming session was taken in Ifrane National Park in Morocco and helped Arthur become joint runner-up in the 15-18 category

This image by Donna Feledichuk shows a fox cub in Alberta leaping over a log in a cute picture that was given commended status in the 'nature, wildlife and conservation portfolio' category

This 'special mention' image was taken by Brit Andy Parkinson and shows, he revealed, a yellow armadillo mid-air as it hurries down a pathway at a secluded lodge in the Southern Pantanal wetlands in Brazil

This spellbinding image earned 17-year-old American Lilly Zhang the gold medal in the 15-18 category. The picture was taken in Exton, Pennsylvania, with Lilly commenting: 'It was a crisp autumn morning, and I went to Marsh Creek State Park in Exton hoping to see the mist suspended on the water with the fall colors reflecting on the surface. To my surprise, I also saw a great heron perched on a rock by the shore. It was just amazingly beautiful'
Netflix has agreed a deal to make two new adaptations of Harlan Coben's best-selling books following the success of Michelle Keegan's Fool Me Once.

The award-winning author's novels Missing You and Run Away will both be made into limited series, making them the ninth and 10th of his titles to feature on the streaming platform as part of his ongoing partnership with Netflix.

Fool Me Once amassed 61million views globally in the first two weeks of its New Year's Day release, reaching the Top 10 in 91 countries worldwide.

The thriller has not only catapulted Michelle, 36, to international stardom, but it's also increased the demand for more of Harlan's work to be reproduced onto the small screen.

A TV insider told MailOnline: 'Fool Me Once has been so huge Netflix were quick to tie down Harlan for more of his books.

Netflix has agreed a deal to make two new adaptations of Harlan Coben's best-selling books following the success of Michelle Keegan's Fool Me Once

The award-winning author's novels Missing You and Run Away will both be made into limited series, making them the ninth and 10th of his titles to feature on the streaming platform

Fool Me Once amassed 61million views globally in the first two weeks of its New Year's Day release, reaching the Top 10 in 91 countries worldwide (pictured in December)

'The thrillers lend themselves to binge-worthy series and bosses at the streamer hope to build on Fool Me Once's success.

'Adaptations of Harlan's other titles have also previously done well, but there's hope the latest two can do even better now the demand is bigger than ever.'

Harlan's 2014 novel Missing You concerns a police detective called Kat Donovan whose life is turned upside down when her fiance Josh resurfaces on a dating app having been missing for 15 years  at the same time her father's murderer makes a shocking confession.

The US writer's 2019 best-seller Runaway tells the story of a father called Simon, who had the perfect life, until his daughter ran away and fell into drink and drugs.

After finally bringing her home, it becomes clear she's not alone, and an argument escalates into shocking violence that will shatter Simon's life all over again as he's forced into the criminal underworld to once again search for his daughter.

Harlan, 62, has published over 35 books since his debut, Play Dead  a romance suspense thriller  which was released in 1990.

The author is married to Anne Armstrong-Coben, who is a paediatrician, and they have four children together.

Netflix is hoping the adaptations will repeat the success of Fool Me Once, which also stars Joanna Lumley and Richard Armitage.

Netflix is hoping the adaptations will repeat the success of Fool Me Once, which also stars Joanna Lumley and Richard Armitage (pictured L-R Richard, Michelle, Harlan and Joanna)

It's yet to be confirmed whether or not former Coronation Street star Michelle will feature in the new series after impressing in the lead role of military pilot Maya Stern

Netflix are reportedly keen to tie her down to an exclusive deal, but Hollywood film bosses are also interested in enquiring her services for blockbuster movies

It's yet to be confirmed whether or not former Coronation Street star Michelle will feature in the new series after impressing in the lead role of military pilot Maya Stern.

Netflix are reportedly keen to tie her down to an exclusive deal, but Hollywood film bosses are also interested in enquiring her services for blockbuster movies.

A source told MailOnline: 'The response to Fool Me Once has been overwhelming.

'The phone calls and offers have been coming in from Hollywood film executives, it's different to anything Michelle has experienced before.

'Netflix is a global platform and the show has given her the opportunity to shine.

'Her career has already been a success but now her star is rising, everyone can feel that this is the beginning of something special.

'Michelle feels lucky that she's always played likeable characters but now she's hoping to take it up a notch by landing a film role.

'She aspires to play a dark character in a hard-hitting thriller, which will be a challenge that she's completely ready for.'
Crystal Hefner, the final wife of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, has revealed that she used to 'find girls' for sex orgies with herself and the late magazine mogul during their marriage.

Lifting the lid on the sordid reality of life at the Playboy Mansion in her new memoir titled Only Say Good Things, the 37-year-old described how her late husband liked to have 'at least five girls' at the same time when they would get intimate in the bedroom.

In a candid recollection about the experience, the former Playmate admitted that it had been a 'relief' to recruit other women so that she would not have to be 'sexual with him all alone.'

The pin-up, who wed the magazine publisher when she was 26 and he was 86 in 2012, wrote: 'After the twins [Kristina and Karissa Shannon] were gone, it became my job to help find girls to come up to the bedroom at parties at the mansion, or on an increasingly rare night out.

'It was a big part of the reason we still went out at all: for Hef to find fresh girls.'

Crystal Hefner has revealed that she used to 'find girls' for sex orgies with herself and the late magazine mogul during their marriage

Crystal, pictured right, was the final wife of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner - pictured together with Kristina and Karissa Shannon at Hugh's 83rd birthday pool party in 2009

She continued: 'Sometimes Hef would point someone out. Other times, I picked. He liked to have at least five girls, and I knew what he liked. It was actually a relief to have other women up in the bedroom with me, to not have to be sexual with him all alone. If these other girls were doing it, then I didn't have to.

'And there were always so many girls eager for a turn in Hugh Hefner's bed, sidling up to me at every party, desperate to be picked. I felt torn - part of me wanted to turn them down for their own good. But I also knew it was going to be someone coming up, so it might as well be someone who really wanted to go.

The model reveals all in her new memoir, Only Say Good Things

'I trusted that as adults they were making their own decisions about their bodies, but I also felt a responsibility to make the whole experience exciting for them. Or if not exciting then at least not so awkward. '

Crystal admitted that she would ensure that the women she recruited would know that they couldn't take her place, as she continued: 'Sometimes they would try to stick around, hanging on Hef and sucking up to him. There seemed to be an endless stream of women desperate to get into the mansion; it never slowed down.

'And it solidified the feeling even more that I couldn't possibly walk away. The more other people wanted what I had, the tighter I clung to it. When somebody stuck around for any length of time, I'd try to find out what they wanted. Girlfriend? Playmate? What?

'It got to the point where I'd ask them, point blank. Surprised, they'd answer. "Uh, Playmate," said one very young-looking girl named Talia.'

The model, who was married to Hugh until his death at the age of 91 in 2017, made it clear that she did not enjoy the group sex encounters with her husband and the other women.

She wrote: 'Here I was in the Playboy Mansion, in Hugh Hefner's bed with Hugh Hefner inside me, beautiful naked women surrounding me, and there was nothing sexy about it.

The pin-up famously wed the magazine publisher when she was 26 and he was 86 in 2012 - pictured in 2009

The 37-year-old described how her late husband liked to have 'at least five girls' at the same time when they would get intimate in the bedroom - pictured in 2009

'This wasn't about making love. It was about power and control and leverage. It was a performance. I was auditioning for a part. I thought it was about my power.

'And with Madonna still singing in the background, [another Playmate] Amber pulling out sex toys from the cabinet behind the bed, I gritted my teeth and surrendered to the task at hand. The twins had quietly slipped away, leaving us to do the job they clearly didn't want to do.'

She continued: 'So Amber and I pretended, like women have done in every porn movie ever made. Our job tonight was to make Hugh Hefner feel like he was the man.

'This was his fantasy, and our only job was to reassure him that this was everything we ever wanted or needed, that this was our fantasy, too, that this scene was every woman's fantasy.

'Amber and I pretended to use the sex toys on each other. I moaned harder and louder. Hugh Hefner smiled.

The model was married to Hugh until his death at the age of 91 in 2017 and has decided to share the truth about her time living in the Playboy mansion

'After a while he was just done, no climax, just done. Suddenly he waved us off of him, almost pushing us to the side....'

Crystal continued that he would 'finish the job' by himself and as his face 'contorted as if he was in pain,' she 'panicked' that he was 'having some kind of eighty-one-year-old-man attack,' but he was okay.

'It was the strangest five seconds of my life. He gave us each a little pat on the shoulder. "You can stay the night in here if you want to, and you're welcome to spend the weekend with me and my babies,"' she wrote.

In the book, Crystal shares more details about living at the Playboy Mansion  famously populated by Playboy 'bunnies' hand-picked by Hugh himself  including how her husband had a 'cruel streak,' and had been addicted to Viagra and painkillers.

Hugh passed away aged 91 in 2017 as a result of heart failure and septicemia after contracting a deadly strain of e-coli, leaving a reported $43 million fortune.

Crystal Hefner's Only Say Good Things: Surviving Playboy And Finding Myself will be available for purchase from January 23.
Wilderness With Simon Reeve

Rating:

Stick Simon Reeve in the I'm A Celebrity jungle and he'll romp to the crown. He demolishes bushtucker trials and challenges for fun.

Wading through tropical forests in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wilderness With Simon Reeve (BBC2), he was up to his thighs in glue-like mud, covered in swarms of biting insects, confronted with heaps of blackened 'bush meat'  dismembered monkeys and porcupines  and dripping with sweat in steam-bath humidity.

'I love the jungle,' he sighed happily.

Whether he'd cope with Ant and Dec's mickey-taking, or the constant whingeing of some Z-list Youtuber, I'm less convinced.

He's not a party-mad extrovert, that's for sure: when a tribe of Baka nomads threw an all-night wing-ding to celebrate his arrival, he crawled off to sleep in a hut before midnight.

Wading through tropical forests in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wilderness With Simon Reeve (BBC2)

'Not that you'd guess he's 51, to look at him. With his boyish features and shiny hair, he makes Professor Brian Cox look older than Gandalf'

The Baka lads were still beating drums and dancing when the sun rose. 'I'm very impressed with their stamina, I have to say,' grumbled Simon, with the bleary face of a man who has been woken repeatedly by rainforest ravers.

A seasoned traveller, he watched cheerfully as Baka men risked their lives to collect wild honey from the treetops.

He nodded sympathetically as the village elders complained that they were hounded and bullied by people from the dominant Bantu culture.

But he squirmed with embarrassment when custom dictated that, as a man, he was obliged to lounge about while the womenfolk built a shelter and tidied round for him.

'I was definitely signalled that I should sit on my behind like the rest of the guys,' he fretted.

For English chaps of his generation, a sense of Western chivalry is deeply ingrained.

Not that you'd guess he's 51, to look at him. With his boyish features and shiny hair, he makes Professor Brian Cox look older than Gandalf.

Plunging deeper into the jungle in search of the bonobo or pygmy chimp, his guide was a former elephant poacher turned conservationist, called Lombert.

Lombert explained that ivory hunting was the only way, as a teenager, that he could make enough money to pay his way through college.

Simon listened without comment or judgment. That's what gives his documentaries their uniquely intelligent appeal.

He doesn't leap to conclusions or tell us what to think  he simply allows us to share his extreme experiences as an explorer and make up our own minds.

George Clarkes Adventures In Americana

Rating:

George Clarke, visiting New Orleans at the beginning of his Adventures In Americana (Ch4), couldn't keep quiet about the rights and wrongs of U.S. history. The city was built on slavery, and this, he informed us, was 'an immoral practice'.

Seeing the buildings where slaves were quartered, he told us, 'It's quite upsetting actually. It does make me angry. It's an emotional rollercoaster. I try to step back from it and just look at the architecture  it might look nice but no, I just can't like it.'

There can't be anybody watching who needs to be reminded that slavery was 'immoral'. The buildings themselves were a far more powerful testimony than George's lukewarm virtue-signalling.

George Clarke, visiting New Orleans at the beginning of his Adventures In Americana (Ch4)

Telling the story of a nation through the design of its homes is an original idea, and it's a pity this four-part series doesn't adhere to it more faithfully.

George did show us ramshackle lean-tos in the Louisiana bayou swamps, and a barn more than five storeys high, built to hold a vast collection of neon advertising signs.

But he kept reverting to standard travelogue fare  getting himself a ten-gallon hat, for instance, and going to a rodeo.

If he'd had more faith in his format and stuck to architecture, this would be a more worthwhile watch.
At the peak of his unhappiness, Sascha Bailey was so desperately low that he contemplated taking his own life.

But internet chatrooms convinced him there was another way out of his despair: he could transition into a woman.

Sascha's vision was to become 'like a real-life Barbie', with pneumatic curves and long blonde hair.

Had the 29-year-old son of the renowned photographer David Bailey and his model fourth wife Catherine spent a lifetime believing he was trapped in the wrong body?

He insists not. Instead, thoughts of becoming a woman began to emerge as the art curator endured a volatile and difficult marriage, becoming so profoundly depressed that he was barely able to get out of bed.

Sascha Bailey has revealed that he was once so low that he contemplated taking his own life but internet chatrooms suggested he transition into a woman (pictured in 2022)

Sascha is the son of legendary photographer David Bailey and his model fourth wife Catherine (pictured in 1999 at the Barbican Art Gallery)

'Transitioning was a way of killing myself without dying, because I was so unhappy with my life,' he says, talking exclusively to the Mail. 'I thought that if I could do this one thing it could change everything, I could reinvent myself as an entirely new person.'

So convinced was Sascha that this was the right course of action, and so anxious to hasten the process, he saw a private doctor, who confirmed he was transgender and wrote him a prescription for female hormones as a prelude to gender affirmation surgery.

Yet 15 months on, Sascha sits before me, not as a woman but as the handsome young man he has always been.

Nurtured by his family and the love of a new partner, 32-year-old photographer Lucy Brown, he has been pulled back from the brink of a life-changing and  he now believes  potentially ruinous decision.

To say he is deeply grateful is an understatement. Indeed, his enormous relief is the reason that, with extraordinary candour, he is opening up about this deeply personal subject, determined to use his experience for what he believes is the wider good.

He is easy company, with a disarming smile, but you can still sense his vulnerability.

'I feel there's a huge problem with over-diagnosis of gender dysphoria,' Sascha says.

'Obviously it is very real for some, but I think there are a lot of people who, like me, aren't actually trans, they're just incredibly unhappy and transitioning is a way of making themselves into a new person which they believe will fix everything.

'This new person won't have the old problems or the old societal expectations. But of course that's not really true.'

Sascha knows that by speaking out so boldly he may be a target for trolls. 'But no one can say it's not my lived experience,' he says. 'I am only speaking from the heart about something I know.'

Sascha saw a private doctor, who confirmed he was transgender and wrote him a prescription for female hormones as a prelude to gender affirmation surgery (pictured with David in 2018)

Sascha knows that by speaking out so boldly he may be a target for trolls. 'But no one can say it's not my lived experience,' he says. 'I am only speaking from the heart about something I know.'

All of this, of course, feels a very far cry from an upbringing steeped in glamour.

Sascha's father David, now 86, counts famed beauties Catherine Deneuve and Marie Helvin among his ex-wives, and he has a portfolio of extraordinary fashion and celebrity portraiture.

Sascha's mother Catherine  to whom David remains married today  is also a celebrated model.

Together with his older siblings Fenton and Paloma, Sascha grew up in bohemian privilege between London and the Bailey country estate in Devon. The family are close.

'Growing up with my parents was fantastic  they were both inspirational people,' he says, recalling a household which was no stranger to A-listers.

'I remember Ronnie Wood told me to tie people's shoelaces together at some event, and the shoe designer Manolo Blahnik kicking me, which was well deserved, as I had pulled someone to the floor as a result,' he smiles.

Dyslexic, Sascha was educated privately at a specialist London school, leaving at 16. Within a year, having inherited his mother's fine bone structure and brunette colouring, he'd been signed by renowned model agency Storm.

By then he was already living with an older girlfriend. 'I was going through a rebellious phase, and just wanted to get out there and do my own thing,' he says.

Then, aged 19, having returned from several months of modelling in Japan, he met lawyer Mimi Nishikawa through a mutual friend. She was 20 years his senior, but this was no bar to an instant attraction.

'She was magnetic and charming, and we just bonded,' he says. 'I think we were both a bit lonely, too, and I guess we found each other.'

Of the age gap, he says: 'It did raise a few eyebrows, but honestly that part of it was never an issue for me, and still isn't.'

In any case, the relationship unfolded with astonishing speed: within three months the couple married at Camden register office with just two witnesses  Sascha's best friend and Mimi's roommate  despite the misgivings of friends and family.

'Loads of people told me it was a bad idea, but when you are in that sort of zone, you have blinkers on,' he says.

'I know people were worried, although my dad laughed and said: 'Do whatever you want.' He was married at around the same age, so what could he say?'

The marriage was happy enough at first, with the couple settling in Whitechapel, East London.

Over time, however, it became increasingly toxic.

'It got to the point where it was pretty terrible,' he says. 'There were a multitude of issues, and on top of that she was also just not very nice.'

Increasingly unhappy and isolated, he was unable to confide in family and friends. 'You put yourself in a metaphorical cage when you're in a situation like this because you start coming up with all these reasons why you can't leave,' he says. 'In a way you enslave yourself.'

By the end of 2019, Sascha suggested the couple move to Japan for a fresh start. They settled on the outskirts of Tokyo, but things continued to deteriorate.

Sascha began transitioning in Tokyo but fled Japan after the collapse of his ten-year marriage to Japanese lawyer Mimi Nishikawa, who is a decade his senior (pictured in 2014)

Nurtured by his family and the love of a new partner, 32-year-old photographer Lucy Brown, he has been pulled back from the brink of a life-changing decision (pictured with Lucy in 2023)

Shockingly, by September 2022 he confides he was so unhappy that he considered taking his own life.

'I wrote a note,' he reveals. 'I still have it on my phone.' He changed his mind at the last minute. 'After that, I just couldn't get out of bed for ages,' he says.

It was at this point that the notion of changing gender started to crystallise. 'I'd already been thinking about it and it's an idea that just grew and grew,' he says. 'It became this way of not having to kill myself, but to become someone new.'

An escape, if you like. This possible 'solution' was reinforced on the internet chatrooms that Sascha had been frequenting, where changing gender was talked about as a ticket to a new life.

EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Legendary snapper David Bailey's youngest son Sascha reveals how he fled his Japanese wife of ten years Mimi Nishikawa and now has a new woman in his life Advertisement

'It's the ultimate way to solve your problems because you're being told everything about you boils down to this one thing that is wrong, and if you can fix this one thing everything will be perfect,' as Sascha puts it.

Having made the decision to transition towards the end of September 2022, he felt liberated.

'When I decided I was trans, I felt great because I felt I was moving towards a goal, towards something achievable. If I followed this path  took the hormones, did the surgery  then I would end up in the place I needed to be. When you are so lost, this is game-changing.'

After meeting a psychiatrist at a private clinic in Japan  with whom he communicated through an internet translation forum  Sascha was 'diagnosed' as transgender.

'It took ten minutes,' he says. 'He referred me to a surgeon and I was given a box of HRT (hormone replacement therapy) patches and sent on my way.

'I'm never someone to do anything by halves, and my plan was to go quite hard on the surgery,' he says.

He envisioned becoming a statuesque blonde. 'The full Barbie cliche,' as he puts it now, adding: 'There's an irony really; you're not allowed to adhere to stereotypes unless you are trans.'

It is no small irony that the fact things abruptly came to a head in his marriage was what prevented him going farther down this road: within a couple of days of visiting the clinic, Sascha fled to London.

'I genuinely felt that if I didn't leave, something disastrous was going to happen,' he says. 'So I just got myself out of there. I had a 'go bag' in a cupboard that Mimi didn't know about, and the next morning I just grabbed the bag, went straight to the airport and paid for a plane ticket to London at the terminal.'

He sought refuge with his parents, and says that they, along with everyone he knew, were 'unbelievably supportive' when he revealed his plans to change gender: 'They were supportive to a fault.'

'My mum was a bit confused, but definitely supportive, as was my brother, and my sister was super supportive,' he says.

'That's wonderful on one level but I feel like that's another issue  it's almost like society has a gun to its head, because if they're not supportive of it, the only choice is to be cancelled. You are either for it, or you're transphobic; there is no middle ground.'

Sascha believes his journey has huge resonance in the UK, where mounting numbers of young people are being diagnosed as transgender (pictured in 2018)

In fact, Sascha's plans had to be put on pause because, anxious not to start hormone therapy until he could be sure that he had a second month's supply from the NHS, he struggled to get an appointment.

'So I guess you could say that the slowness of the NHS helped to save me,' he says with a smile. Back home, and with space to think, Sascha says he came to a realisation that changing his external identity was not going to resolve the complex feelings he had inside. He has been diagnosed with PTSD as a consequence of experiences within his marriage.

He says he realised two things: 'One, there was no actual way I can know what it feels like to be a woman because I'd never been one, so the idea of me saying 'Oh, I feel like a woman' was absurd.

'And the second thing I came to realise was that I didn't actually need to change my outside because of how I felt on the inside. I just needed to come to terms with it.'

None of this has been easy: having been suffused with what Sascha calls 'gender euphoria'  a sense of having a 'solution' to his unhappiness  he now had to face the real world. 'It meant I actually had to face my problems, and it floored me,' he says.

It's fair to say that process is ongoing; while Sascha is in a 'much better' place, he confides to still feeling rather lost.

'Going through any traumatic experience takes time,' he says. 'I'm also having to confront the fact that ten years have gone, I've lost my home, we'd built up an art company together and that's gone too.'

But family and friends are giving him time to lick his wounds.

'I live with my parents at the moment, and they've been really understanding,' he says.

So has his new partner Lucy, whom he credits with providing loving, non-judgmental support.

'Lucy has saved my life in many ways,' he says. 'She's such a fantastic person.' They are shortly to move into a place of their own, and he plans to curate another art exhibition soon.

More than anything, he is glad that he did not take those first few tempting steps down the road to becoming a woman.

'Thank God I didn't do the hormones, because within a few months you're risking infertility and the thought that I could not have children is devastating,' he says.

'But it also shines a light on the uncomfortable reality, which is that we are asking kids aged 15 and 16 to make the choice about whether or not they will want children themselves and that just isn't right.'

David was appointed a CBE by the Queen in 2001 for services to art, and went on to snap the monarch for her birthday in 2014 (together in 2010)

The photographer (pictured in 1984 with exwife Marie Helvin) defined the Swinging Sixties with his iconic black and white images of pop stars, models, politicians and royalty

He acknowledges that his experience was at the extreme end in a society where, if you have money, you can pay to realise your dream without too many probing questions.

Nonetheless, he believes his journey has huge resonance in the UK, where mounting numbers of young people are being diagnosed as transgender. 'I wish everyone could just take a breath,' he says.

'I think we're going to look back on this time and be shocked at how quickly we ran away with all this stuff. We need to allow people space and time to talk and explore their feelings before we rush them down the medical route.'

He also hopes that his story can be one of optimism to anyone who is struggling. 'I still have some work to do,' he says. 'But after everything I've been through I'm so happy to be rebuilding my life.'

For confidential support, call the Samaritans on 116 123.
Emilia Jones and Kathryn Newton stopped in at the IndieWire Sundance Studio in Park City, Utah, as part of the Sundance Film Festival on Sunday.

Jones, 21, and Newton, 26, star in the film Winner, about the life story of the NSA translator-turned-classified documents leaker Reality Winner.

Emilia plays the title character, a US Air Force vet who shared a report about Russian interference in the 2016 Presidential election.

Emilia looked chic as she walked the red carpet in a pair of wide-legged black leather pants and an oversized brown turtleneck sweater by Michael Kors Collection.

Kathryn accentuated her blonde hair by going for an all-white look that would have been at home in a ski chalet.

Emilia Jones and Kathryn Newton stopped in at the IndieWire Sundance Studio in Park City, Utah, as part of the Sundance Film Festival on Sunday. Jones, 21 and Newton, 26, star in the film Winner about the life story of NSA translator turned traitor Reality Winner

Emilia looked chic in a pair of wide-legged black leather pants and an oversized brown turtleneck sweater by Michael Kors Collection, while Kathryn wore a cable knit sweater with a collar and 3/4 zip with the same color pants

The Big Little Lies alumna wore a cable knit sweater with a collar and 3/4 zip with the same color pants. Newton plays Brittany Winner, Reality's sister.

Reality Winner was convicted of releasing classified document about Russia's involvement in the 2016 Presidential elections to the media.

After initially pleading not guilty, she changed her plea to guilty and accepted a deal from prosecutors.

In exchange, she was given the longest prison sentence ever imposed for the unauthorized release of government information: five years and three months in federal prison.

Zach Galifinakis, 54, and Danny Ramirez, 31, also star in the film, directed by Susanna Fogel, and all three were in attendance at its Saturday premiere and the IndieWire event.

The story starts when Reality is nine as she frees several puppies from a pet store.

She also decides that the best way to prevent another 9/11 is to learn the language of the terrorist, so she begins to study Arabic.

Fogel and screenwriter Kerry Howley said they attempted to paint a relatable picture of Reality in the film by following her love of dogs and her deep commitment to her country and career.

Emilia plays the title character, a US Air Force vet who shared a report about Russian interference in the 2016 Presidential election

Zach Galifinakis, 54, and Danny Ramirez, 31, also star in the film directed by Susanna Fogel and all three were in attendance at its Saturday premiere and the IndieWire event

Galifinakis stars as Reality's dad Ron Winner while Friday Night Lights alumna Connie Britton, 56, takes on the role of her mother Billie

Susanna Fogel (pictured) directs the ripped-from-the-headlines film

In the end, what appears to be yet another movie about politics is actually a coming of age tale

Ultimately, the audience has to decide whether Reality's actions are justifiable.

Galifinakis stars as Reality's dad Ron Winner while Friday Night Lights alum Connie Britton, 56, takes on the role of her mother Billie.

Ramirez plays her love interest Andre who helps her rescue and abused dog while she's in the Air Force.

Winner's story was previously dramatized in the film Reality, which starred Sydney Sweeney as the eponymous leaker.
Natasha Leggero shocked her fans by taking off her cloth and flashing her breasts during her appearance at the Hollywood Improv on Saturday night.

According to TMZ , the 49-year-old comedian was introduced directly after Bert Kreischer, who has become well-known for performing shirtless, finished up his first set of the night.

The actress, who was recently featured in the reality series Stars On Mars, spoke about the actor's affinity for taking his shirt off, and asked the crowd: 'If the boys can do it, why can't the girls?'

After Kreischer finished up his second set of the evening, he introduced Leggero, who began dancing before she removed her jacket, which she tossed into the audience, and her shirt, exposing her breasts.

Leggero's actions seemed to be well-received by the audience, as attendees could be heard cheering loudly for her before she put her jacket back on and started her set.

Natasha Leggero surprised her fans by taking off her clothing and flashing her breasts during her appearance at the Hollywood Improv on Saturday night

According to TMZ , the 49-year-old comedian was introduced directly after Bert Kreischer, who has become well-known for performing shirtless, finished up his first set of the night

The actress, who was recently featured in the reality series Stars On Mars , spoke about the actor's affinity for taking his shirt off, and asked the crowd: 'If the boys can do it, why can't the girls?'

The performer's stunt also surprised Kreischer, who exclaimed: 'Holy s***! Oh, f*** yeah! I've got to take my pants off now!'

Several other high-profile comedians, including Tiffany Haddish and David Spade, were also present at the event.

Leggero went on to begin her set by joking about her 'baby' daughter, whom she welcomed 'four years ago.'

The comedian then spoke about the downsides of motherhood, which were weighed out by her joy about becoming a mother.

'Apart from the gingivitis, C-section scar, abdominal separation, weight gain, hair loss, and pain when I sneeze, having a baby has been truly an amazing experience,' she stated.

Leggero shares her daughter, whose name has not been revealed to the public as of yet, with her husband, Moshe Kasher.

The comedians tied the knot in 2015, and they started a family with the birth of their child, five, which took place three years later.

The pair also co-host the The Endless Honeymoon Podcast, which is centered on relationships and marriages.

After Kreischer finished up his second set of the evening, he introduced Leggero

She began dancing before she removed her jacket, which she tossed into the audience, and her shirt, exposing her breasts

The performer's stunt also surprised Kreischer, who exclaimed: 'Holy s***! Oh, f*** yeah! I've got to take my pants off now!'

Several other high-profile comedians, including Tiffany Haddish and David Spade, were also present at the event

Leggero went on to begin her set by joking about her 'baby' daughter, whom she welcomed 'four years ago'

The comedian then spoke about the downsides of motherhood, which were weighed out by her joy about becoming a mother

'Apart from the gingivitis, C-section scar, abdominal separation, weight gain, hair loss, and pain when I sneeze, having a baby has been truly an amazing experience,' she stated

Leggero shares her daughter, whose name has not been revealed to the public as of yet, with her husband, Moshe Kasher

Leggero opened up about motherhood during an episode of The Last Laugh podcast, where she discussed the changes in her personality she noticed after welcoming her daughter.

'Even though I'm missing the pre-motherhood Natasha, I'm trying to also enjoy post-motherhood Natasha, who's totally different and capable of much more love and selflessness, but also much more fear,' she said.

The comedian also expressed that she had learned to accept her shortcomings even after becoming a mother.

'I really was able to come to terms with the fact that you don't have a child to stay the same,' she said,
An Australian bikini brand has come under fire for sharing a video of a male model posing in a women's swimsuit, almost a year after Seafolly suffered a similar fate for collaborating with non-binary influencer Deni Todorovic.

Moana Bikini, a swimsuit brand owned by body positive influencer Karina Irby, shared an Instagram video on Saturday of model Jake Young strutting around in a white one-piece swimsuit worth $130.

'Obsessed with this look,' the account captioned the post, adding that 'Moana babe' Jake was modelling a size small.

Scores of upset customers have since commented on the video, with many accusing Moana Bikini of 'allowing men to encroach on women's spaces'.

'Is that a man? I thought you were about empowering women? Men seem to be trying to take over everything women hold sacred. Our safe spaces, our identity and now our fashion,' one user wrote.

Australian swimwear brand Moana Bikini has come under fire for sharing a video of male model Jake Young (pictured) posing in a women's swimsuit

'Sorry but Moana, this is not how you empower women. This is once again giving men the power over us and saying they do it better,' someone else added.

'Horrible marketing. Why is it everyone is trying so hard to be 'woke'? The model is gorgeous but this is not it,' yet another added.

Many commenters simply said they had 'unfollowed' the page and would no longer be purchasing Moana products.

Scores of upset customers have since commented on the video, with many accusing Moana Bikini of 'allowing men to encroach on women's spaces'

Moana Bikini has doubled down on its decision to share the video.

'If Jake in our bikini upsets you that much we feel as though this may be a you problem,' the brand wrote in a response to an unhappy follower.

Jake has also defended himself, insisting that his post is 'empowering to a minority'.

Rather than apologising, however, the Moana page has doubled down on its decision to share the video. Pictured: Moana Bikini founder, body positive influencer Karina Irby

Jake has also defended himself, insisting that his post is 'empowering to a minority'

'There are many different types of women. Women with different anatomy to what you consider 'normal',' the model wrote in a comment.

'I am not a woman nor have I ever claimed to be. This post is simply empowering a minority & I'm forever grateful for that. Your hate is a reflection of your own insecurities, not mine.'

Several followers also rushed to defend the video and praise Moana for its 'dedication to inclusivity', with one commenting: 'Obsessed! Thank you for always being inclusive in your sizing and models! Number one reason I will always support your brand.'

'The perfect amount of masculine beauty and feminine beauty combined!' another enthused, as someone else added: 'Bathing suits are for anyone who wants to wear them. Why does someone in a bathing suit bother you so much?'

When approached for comment, Moana Bikini stood by the video.

'We find it quite absurd that people would cherry-pick this one, individual post from our 12 years of business to make a wild statement about us not being empowering to women,' a spokesperson said.

'Moana Bikini are - and have always been - one of the most inclusive and empowering brands in existence. This is not only in terms of our size and style range for women but - most importantly - in our love and acceptance of all races, ethnicities, body shapes and sizes, genders and sexual orientations. This hasn't changed and never will change.'

They continued: 'Many commenters are using the excuse that they believe it is 'insulting to women,' when in reality, it's quite clear they are homophobic and have an issue with someone expressing their sexuality proudly and confidently.'

'We're happy to receive and hear people's feedback - both negative and positive. But we're not here to please everyone. That's an impossible task. If people aren't happy with this individual post of a proud, gay man wearing a piece of clothing he feels confident in, they can just keep scrolling or unfollow, can't they?'

'Imagine living a life where you choose to be offended by something and stick around, comment and engage, only to make yourself more and more angry. This sounds like a them problem, not an us problem, to be honest.'

The saga is notably similar to the fracas caused in March last year when swimwear brand Seafolly worked with non-binary influencer Deni Todorovic.

Deni, who uses they/them pronouns and identifies as non-binary, courted controversy after they took to Instagram with a photo of themselves posing in lime green bikini bottoms and a matching cover near Bondi Beach.

'This marks the first time iconic Aussie swim giants @seafollyaustralia have worked with a trans ambassador/brand partner,' Deni innocently wrote under the image.

They later edited their caption to read: 'Today we made history. This marks the first time iconic Aussie swim giants @seafollyaustralia have worked with a Trans person.'

The photo caused a huge backlash including calls to boycott the brand, which in the past had used models such as Miranda Kerr and Gigi Hadid in its glamorous campaigns.

Writer Alexandra Marshall was one of those who had spoken out against the campaign, saying the swimwear brand was 'mocking women'.

'Bye @seafolly. Never again. Been buying swimsuits from you for many years. Never again,' she posted on Twitter.

Seafolly later denied Todorovic was an ambassador for the brand, and said they were a 'special guest' to the brand's World Pride event in Sydney.
She has always maintained a slender and very fit physique.

And Carrie Bickmore has revealed the fitness secrets behind her flawless figure.

Posting to her stories on Sunday, the Hit FM drive-time star shared a video and a gallery of pictures which featured her workout routine - running and swimming.

Carrie boasted she recently managed to complete a 50-minute run.

Sharing a playful selfie, Carrie was seen lying on her back in grass and poking her tongue out after completing a tough workout.

Carrie Bickmore has revealed the fitness secrets behind her flawless figure

The mother-of-two explained she was using Jorja Smith's hit tune Little Things as exercise music.

'This song got me through 50 minutes running, ' Carrie said in caption.

She added: 'The longest [run] I've done in a long, long time...new year, same slow runner.'

Adding a second photo in the story, Carrie then offered some fitness advice.

'Honestly start with [a] 5mins [run], then 10, then 15...I could never run, just don't worry how slow you are,' she shared.

Posting to her stories on Sunday, the Hit FM drive-time star shared a video and a gallery of pictures which featured her workout routine - running and swimming

She also added a video of her favourite running track, which threads through bushland and is laid out between overhead power lines.

'How's the serenity?' Carrie joked in the caption.

It comes after the glamorous media personality was left fumbling for the delete button recently when she accidentally posted a makeup-free selfie online.

She shared more than she hoped to when she uploaded a reel of summery bikini snaps to her Instagram Stories just a few weeks ago.

The typically glammed-up television presenter quickly deleted the photo.

The candid selfie was only visible to her followers 'for about 10 seconds', one keen-eyed social media user told Daily Mail Australia.

She also added a video of her favourite running track, which threads through bushland and is laid out between overhead power lines

Carrie and her Hit FM co-star Tommy Little are rumoured to be joining season 10 of Channel 10's I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out if Here.

As speculation continues over a romantic entanglement between the pair, it seems the network could be looking to capitalise on fan interest in the attractive radio duo.

The network is 'open to the idea' of a double act in season 10, with viewers expected to tune in to watch their chemistry unfold, reported Woman's Day on Monday.

The source went on to say Carrie is also 'itching to get back on TV screens' after she left The Project in November 2022.

Since the blonde bombshell split with her husband Chris Walker, rumours have been swirling that she's dating Tommy, 38, the co-host of her drive program The Carrie and Tommy Show.

Fans begged the couple to confirm their alleged romance, with interest intensifying after they enjoyed a break in France together.

Carrie boasted she recently managed to complete a 50-minute run
Vick Hope was forced to respond to cruel trolls after she was slammed 'for flaunting her glamorous lifestyle' as she shared a throwback holiday snap on Sunday.

The radio presenter, 34, tried taking away the January blues by sharing a topless photo on a beach from a previous holiday on Instagram.

But despite posting the innocent throwback post, reminding herself of the gorgeous summer months ahead, Vick had to defend herself against two harsh trolls.

The first comment read: 'We know u and Calvin [Harris] have worked hard, but it's almost February, the weather is c*** and we'd all love to get away for a bit of sunshine. So thanks for flaunting ur glamorous life when 95% of the country are struggling to pay some bills right now.'

Vick responded: '@ste.porter1978 Im not on holiday ste, I was at work today, have been all week, well aware that its bloody cold Im freezing my t*** off right now. Its a throwback picture from a past holiday, ste, not that deep.'

Vick Hope, 34, was forced to respond to cruel trolls after she was slammed 'for flaunting her glamorous lifestyle' as she shared a throwback holiday snap on Sunday

The radio presenter tried taking away the January blues by sharing a topless photo on a beach from a previous holiday on Instagram

Shortly after her first Sunday shammer, Vick received another hit to her social media as a second troll added: 'Its nearly February, its freezing and no one has any money but thanks'.

Hitting back at the fan while staying positive, she joked: '@heelspatgfk ok next time will post a pic of my grim commute home tonight from work in the storm to brighten up the timeline'.

Despite some harsh critics Vick received heaps of support and love from her fans, with one writing: 'it is a good job she is a well educated person and doesn't listen to c**p. If you don't like it don't follow her.'

Vick recently got back from a New Year's break in Mexico with her husband Calvin Harris.

The chart topping DJ, 39, and the BBC Radio presenter tied the knot in a lavish Glastonbury-themed wedding in September 2023.

And the couple still looked as loved-up as ever, four months later, as they giggled and splashed about in the water together.

Calvin sported a pair of black swimming trunks, showing off his ripped physique and impressively toned six-pack.

But despite posting the innocent throwback post, reminding herself of the gorgeous summer months ahead, Vick had to defend herself against two harsh trolls

Shortly after her first Sunday shammer, Vick received another hit to her social media as another troll added: 'Its nearly February, its freezing and no one has any money but thanks'

Despite some harsh critics Vick received heaps of support and love from her fans, with some writing: '@ste.porter1978 that's not her fault'

Vick also showed off her incredible figure in a tiny patterned bikini, which showed off her toned stomach and ample cleavage.

After their wedding Calvin and Vick jetted off to Brindisi in Italy on a 25million private jet for their romantic honeymoon.

The couple were joined by their family and friends in an outdoor ceremony at Hulne Priory in Alnwick, Northumberland, before partying into the early hours.

They are yet to officially release any pictures from their big day, however photos from the morning after show a glimpse inside the luxury and picturesque venue.

Vick and Calvin have been dating since January 2022, according to reports, and went public with their relationship at the Chelsea Flower Show in May that year.

Calvin then proposed to Vick with a huge diamond ring underneath a tree at his 138 acre Ibiza farm, Terra Masia, the same month.

While Vick said she is keeping the details of her engagement private, she said it was a 'very special moment' and that 'it was... perfect.'

She also revealed their love story actually goes all the way back to the early noughties when they first met when she was 19.

Vick recently got back from a New Year's break in Mexico with her beloved husband Calvin Harris (pictured in 2023)

The chart topping DJ, 39, and the BBC Radio presenter tied the knot in a lavish Glastonbury-themed wedding in September 2023

Calvin went on to become one of the highest paid disk jockeys/producers, racking up an estimated 200-plus million fortune, with Vick previously admitting she was 'shallow' and had no idea he would turn into 'an Adonis'

Vick said Calvin first made a move on her when he was enjoying his first flush of success with his hit Acceptable In The 80s back in 2007 - but she turned him down at the time

Vick said Calvin first made a move on her when he was enjoying his first flush of success with his hit Acceptable In The 80s back in 2007 - but she turned him down at the time.

She told You Magazine of the twist of fate, saying: 'It's something that we laughed about on our first proper date. We still laugh about it now'.

Calvin went on to become one of the highest paid disk jockeys/producers, racking up an estimated 200-plus million fortune, with Vick previously admitting she was 'shallow' and had no idea he would turn into 'an Adonis'.

The happy couple split their time between Calvin's Ibiza farm and their London pad, and while Vick often follows her husband around the world for his DJ work, she admits she loves their 'peaceful' London life.

She also recently hinted she has taken Calvin's surname since they tied the knot, with the star's real name being Adam Richard Wiles.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, the radio host shared a snapshot of a scrabble game where 'Wiles' was spelled out across the tiles.
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She recently said in an interview she couldn't care less about what people thought about her fashion choices.

And Nicole Kidman certainly turned heads as she attended the New York premiere of her new Amazon Prime Video series Expats in New York on Sunday.

The Hollywood star, 56, dared to bare in the chilly weather, showing off her incredible figure in a racy backless black gown.

The flamed-haired beauty flaunted her very toned back and six-pack abs in the structured frock, which featured a cowl neck design on the bodice and high split in the skirt.

Nicole let her dress do the talking by accessorising with elegant but simple drop diamond earrings, a matching diamond bracelet and ring and a watch.

Nicole Kidman turned heads as she attended the New York premiere of her new Amazon Prime Video series Expats in New York on Sunday

She wore her strawberry locks down and opted for a copper-toned eyeshadow palette and a rosy lip for makeup.

Once inside Nicole changed into a stylish black glittering long sleeved mini dress which she teamed with opaque tights and towering pointed toe heels.

She was spotted sipping on champagne with her co-stars Sarayu Blue, Ji-young Yoo and Lulu Wang as they celebrated at the premiere.

In Expats, Nicole plays Margaret, a well-off American woman living a seemingly idyllic life in Hong Kong with her family - until an unthinkable tragedy occurs and her son goes missing.

Her life becomes wrapped up with two other American women also undergoing their own ordeals, including a young woman struggling to let go of the past.

The Hollywood star, 56, dared to bare in the chilly weather, showing off her incredible figure in a racy backless black gown

Nicole recently opened up about her experiences navigating Hollywood as a woman in her fifties.

The Australian star told Stellar's Something To Talk About podcast that after kicking up a stir with her controversial 2022 Vanity Fair micro skirt photoshoot, 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.

The flamed-haired star flaunted her very toned back and abs in the structured frock, which featured a cowl neck design on the bodice and high split in the skirt

Nicole let her dress do the talking by accessorising with simple drop diamond earrings and an elegant watch

Nicole's backless dress showed off her entire back and just covered her bottom

The statuesque beauty looked confident and comfortable in the risque ensemble

Nicole's muscular back was on show in the show-stopping frock

'I have to be made to think of consequences half the time. Part of my brain just doesn't think like that.'

The Nine Perfect Strangers favourite 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 dress also gave a peek at Nicole's incredible six-pack

Every inch of Nicole's toned body was complimented by the gown

The stunner worked her best angles on the red carpet

Nicole's toned biceps were also on display as she posed for the photographers

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.

Nicole stopped on the red carpet to embrace her co-star Jack Huston

Nicole recently opened up about her experiences navigating Hollywood as a woman in her fifties

The Australian actress told Stellar's Something To Talk About podcast that after kicking up a stir with her controversial 2022 Vanity Fair micro skirt photoshoot , she's never let what other people think hold her back

Nicole wore a Versace wool coat as she arrived for the event

Once inside she whipped off her jacket and stunned with her beautiful ensemble

Nicole wore a copper-toned eyeshadow palette and a rosy lip colour for makeup

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.

The friendly star also stopped to sign autographs for fans

Nicole posed up for a group photo with her co-stars Jack Huston, Brian Tee, Lulu Wang, Jennifer Salke, Nicole Kidman, Sarayu Blue, Ji-young Yoo, Ruby Ruiz and Amelyn Pardenilla (left to right)

Nicole wore a similar gown 20 years ago at the 18th Annual American Cinematheque Award in 2013

Inside Nicole slipped into a glittering black long sleeved dress which boasted bronze buttons up the front

She added a pair of opaque tights and towering pointed toe heels to the outfit

She left her long tresses loose as she posed with Lulu Wang

Nicole pictured with Jennifer Salke

She posed with her co-stars inside (pictured L-R Bodhi Del Rosario, Jack Huston, Tiana Gowen, Brian Tee, Amelyn Pardenilla, Lulu Wang, Ji-young Yoo, Sarayu Blue, Nicole Kidman, Ruby Ruiz, Janice Y. K. Lee, Connor James and Sheila Lirio Marcelo)

Leading ladies Sarayu Blue, Ji-young Yoo, Nicole and Lulu Wang cheers their champagne while celebrating at the premiere

The stars beamed for photos as they relaxed on a sofa inside the premiere

Nicole beamed as she wrapped her arms around Brian Tee as they posed for a snap

Ji-young (L) cut a smart figure in a tweed blazer while Sarayu (R) turned heads in a strapless navy gown which boasted dramatic puff sleeves

Stars Nicole and Brian beamed as they posed with Bodhi Del Rosario (L) and Tiana Gowen (R)
A leading Australian dentist has revealed why Kanye West's may seriously regret his bizarre titanium teeth makeover.

The rapper, 46, shocked fans on Wednesday after he debuted set of Bond villain-esque titanium dentures on Instagram.

Kanye also claimed to have had his teeth removed and replaced with the appliance to create the new permanent look - which a source said he designed himself.

However Dr Sam Koh, a leading cosmetic dentist who works at Dental Boutique as a Principal Dentist, says Kanye's new smile is cause for major concern.

According to Dr Koh, Kanye may struggle clean his new mouthguard properly, leading to a host of issues including infections.

A leading Australian dentist has revealed why Kanye West 's may seriously regret his bizarre titanium teeth makeover. Kanye is seen flashing his smile before the implant was fitted

'Although it has been reported that the dentist has given him custom equipment to help clean his teeth, such a bulky one-piece appliance is going to be hard to clean,' he explained.

'Microscopically, there will be a lot of food, bacteria and debris getting underneath the titanium which can then cause a lot of bad breath, sensitivity, tooth decay and gum issues such as disease and infection if the titanium is there long term.'

Dr Koh believes that Kanye likely shaved his teeth down and glued the titanium dentures on top of them, rather than removing his teeth completely.

The rapper, 46, shocked fans on Wednesday after he debuted set of Bond villain-esque titanium dentures on Instagram

The remaining part of the teeth will move over time, causing deterioration of the glue that is holding the titanium in place.

This deterioration will cause 'microgaps' where bacteria and decay can form over time.

'This would then result in either the bridge coming loose over time, or much worse, dental decay, infection and disease with the bacteria able to then get inside the teeth,' he warned.

Dr Sam Koh, a leading cosmetic dentist who works at Dental Boutique as a Principal Dentist, says Kanye's new smile is cause for major concern

If untreated, the decay could spread and cause serious gum disease, forcing Kanye to undergo multiple root canals from dental infections and potentially even remove all his teeth altogether.

Dr Koh also fears that Kanye may struggle to eat, given that the surfaces of his new mouthpiece are flat and bulky - making it difficult to tear and chew food.

'Cosmetically they also appear rather bulky and could change his facial appearance and soft tissue structure and would also impact how he talks, sings and raps,' he added.

According to Dr Koh, Kanye may struggle clean his new mouthguard properly, leading to a host of issues including infections. The musician may also struggle to eat, speak and even rap with the new mouth wear. Pictured: Kanye's new titanium 'jaws'

Kanye's new denture, said to worth $850,000, were fitted by Dr Thomas Connelly in Beverly Hills alongside Naoki Hayashi, Master Dental Technician.

Connelly told DailyMail.com last week: 'Ye was a pleasure to work with every step of the process.

'His vision for designing unique art transcends the dental progression. The marriage of his vision with dental science has created a new look that is epic!'
Jessica Marais is now said to be living a quiet life in Perth.

The Packed To The Rafters star, 38, is allegedly back home with her family after she spent four years taking care of her mental health and the actress is taking things easy, reports Woman's Day.

The publication alleges the Logie Award-winner moved back to Perth in 2022 to live in the Mosman Park home of her late mother Karen Marais.

She's reportedly spending quality time with her doctor sister Clara, her brother-in-law and their two children while Clara renovates her home.

As for Jessica's daughter Scout, who she co-parents with ex partner James Stewart, the 11-year-old allegedly still lives in Sydney with her father.

Jessica Marais (pictured) is now said to be living a quiet life in Perth

Despite being apart, James, 48, allegedly frequently flies Scout out to Perth to visit her mother and reportedly has a very amicable relationship with Jessica.

Early last year, the trio could be seen in a group photo James shared to Instagram which showed them posing with Jessica's family and James' wife Sarah Roberts.

Proving that all is well between the blended family, Jessica beamed as she wrapped her arms wrapped around Scout and her ex-partner's new flame 39-year-old Sarah.

Also spotted in the crowd was Jessica's sister Clara, as well as Clara's partner and young children.

'Family,' James simply captioned the sweet image.

The Packed To The Rafters star, 38, is allegedly back home with her family after she spent four years taking care of her mental health

The heartwarming photo marked the first time Jessica had been pictured in public with Scout in almost three years.

Mother and daughter were last photographed together in May 2020 during an emotional reunion that took place a week after the troubled actress was hospitalised following a welfare check by emergency services.

Photos showed the Wrong Girl star wrapping her arms around Scout, who had brought her a colourful handmade card as a Mother's Day gift.

The emotional moment took place outside Jessica's home at the time in Coogee, Sydney, while James, who dated Jessica from 2010 to 2015, watched on from afar.

The actress is taking things easy, reports Woman's Day

She smiled while looking at the card, which featured the message 'I [heart] you' with 'Happy Mother's Day' inside the heart.

Just one week earlier, emergency crews had been called to Jessica's eastern suburbs home on a welfare check.

Three officers were seen ringing Jessica's doorbell at about midday, before two male paramedics entered the building.

Minutes later, Jessica emerged wearing black leggings and a grey cardigan as she slowly stepped down the stairs with the assistance of the paramedics.

The publication alleges the Logie Award-winner moved back to Perth in 2022 to live in the Mosman Park home of her late mother Karen Marais. Pictured: Jessica posing with her award for Best Actor at the 2016 Logie Awards

Jessica and James, who met on the set of Packed to the Rafters in 2007, have been co-parenting Scout since their split in 2015.

James went on to marry fellow Home And Away star Sarah in 2019.

Jessica has had a difficult few years.

The mother of one, who suffers from bipolar disorder, was unable to attend the Logie Awards in July 2018 because she was receiving treatment for 'urgent' issues at The Health Clinic, a mental health facility in Bronte.

While in treatment, she attended daily counselling sessions and had access to nurses, psychiatrists and psychologists.

As for Jessica's daughter Scout, who she co-parents with ex partner James Stewart, the 11-year-old allegedly still lives in Sydney with her father. Pictured: Jessica and James in 2010

Jessica reportedly followed a detox and inner health program, with inpatient programs averaging $25,000 for a month.

In September 2018, the South African-born star announced she was pulling out of Channel Nine show Bad Mothers a month before it was scheduled to begin filming.

'Jessica has decided to step away from acting for the remainder of 2018 to focus on her health and spend time with her family,' her manager said at the time.

In July 2019, it was announced that Jessica would return to screens in Halifax: Retribution, a reboot of '90s drama Halifax f.p., starring alongside Rebecca Gibney and Anthony LaPaglia.

James reportedly flies Scout out to Perth to visit her mother, and allegedly has a very amicable relationship with Jessica. (Pictured L-R: James, his wife Sarah Roberts, Jessica, and Scout)

However, two months later reports claimed she had pulled out of the series.

Then in February 2020, Jessica shocked fans by announcing she would be stepping away from the highly anticipated Back to the Rafters for 'personal reasons'.

In 2022, she got a job as a waitress in a Sydney cafe, officially stepping away from acting for good.

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He is one of Hollywood's rising stars.

But Australian actor Jacob Elordi has left his American fans baffled over his real accent.

The 26-year-old, who was born in Brisbane, shocked American viewers during an appearance on Saturday Night Live, when he hosted the show in his natural voice.

It appears that many US fans expected the Euphoria star to be American.

'Watching SNL and why did no one tell me Jacob Elordi has an accent Oh,' wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter), signing it with a crying Emoji.

Hollywood star Jacob Elordi hosted Saturday Night Live - and the Queenslander baffled fans with his Aussie accent (pictured on SNL)

It appears that other U.S. based fans were equally perplexed with one clearly distraught fan exclaiming in - capitals: 'Jacob Elordi has an accent?'

The Saltburn star began his hosting gig on SNL by delivering the monologue - and one fan thought his Down Under twang was a 'performance'.

'Jacob Elordi sounds like he's faking his accent,' wrote the fan on X and added:

'Sorry don't believe it be normal.'

The Saltburn star began his hosting gig on SNL by delivering the monologue - and one fan thought his Down Under twang was a 'performance'

However, one at least one fan on the X thread appeared to know that the Kissing Booth star came from Down Under.

'Jacob Elordi's American accent so I be forgetting he's Australian' they wrote.

Meanwhile, Jacob has become a viral sensation after his star turn in the racy new film Saltburn.

The hunky star has attracted 786,000 new followers to his Instagram since the movie dropped on Amazon Prime Video last month.

The 26-year-old, who was born in Brisbane, shocked viewers during his appearance on Saturday Night Live, when he hosted the show in his Aussie accent, since many apparently, expected the Saltburn star to be an American

Jacob who plays the character Felix Catton in the black comedy now has a staggering 13.6million followers on the popular social platform.

According to social poker site Replay Poker, Jacob's Saltburn co-star Barry Keoghan is benefitting from the movies popularity as well.

The Irish-born actor has gained 608,000 new Instagram followers in the last 30 days.

And the movie itself continues to create excitement on line with #Saltburn attracting 4.1billion views on TikTok.
Sebastian Stan opted for an all-black outfit on Sunday while attending the premiere of his new film A Different Man at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah.

The 41-year-old actor looked sharp while layering up in a black T-shirt under a black polo shirt along with a long black coat for the premiere at the Eccles Center Theatre.

The Marvel Studios star completed his look with black shoes and had his black hair slicked back.

Sebastian teamed up on the carpet with British actor Adam Pearson, 39, who also has a starring role in the film by director Aaron Schimberg, who also wrote the screenplay.

Adam has neurofibromatosis and previously appeared in Aaron's 2019 film Chained For Life.

Sebastian Stan opted for an all-black outfit on Sunday while attending the premiere of his new film A Different Man at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah

Sebastian teamed up on the carpet with British actor Adam Pearson, 39, who also has a starring role in the film

Sebastian pictured with Adam on Sunday at Variety Sunday Studio in Park City, Utah

Sebastian and Adam also joined Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve, 36, for a group photo of the film's three main stars.

The film follows Edward, played by Sebastian, who undergoes surgery for a new start in life and then becomes fixated on another man portraying him in a stage production based on his former life.

The trio of actors also joined director Aaron on the carpet for a group photo.

A Different Man co-producer Vanessa McDonnell wrapped an arm around Aaron on the carpet.

Sebastian, Adam, Renate and Aaron also stopped by the Variety Sundance Studio, presented by Audible, to promote the movie.

Adam also was seen at The Hollywood Reporter Studio, sponsored by Heineken Silver, Hyundai, Bogner, and SIXT, held at the Pendry Park City.

A Different Man is being distributed by independent A24, which distributed Everything Everywhere All At Once - the winner of the last Academy Award for Best Picture.

A24 also has distributed Uncut Gems, Lady Bird, Hereditary, Midsommar, Ex Machina and Priscilla.

The 41-year-old actor looked sharp while layering up in a black T-shirt under a black polo shirt along with a long black coat for the premiere at the Eccles Center Theatre

Sebastian and Adam also joined Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve, 36, for a group photo of the film's three main stars

A Different Man stars Sebastian, shown filming in August 2022 in New York City, as Edward

Sebastian gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Bucky Barnes aka the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting with the 2011 film Captain America: The First Avenger.

He also received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Tommy Lee in the 2022 Hulu miniseries Pam & Tommy.

Sebastian earned nominations for a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Critics' Choice Award for his work in the Hulu miniseries.

He starred along with Julianne Moore, Justice Smith, Briana Middleton, and John Lithgow in the A24 and Apple TV+ crime film Sharper.

Sharper was released in selected theaters by A24 in February 2023 ahead of its streaming release a week later on the Apple TV+ service.

The trio of starring actors also joined director Aaron on the carpet for a group photo

A Different Man co-producer Vanessa McDonnell wrapped an arm around Aaron on the carpet

Sebastian had his black hair slicked back

Adam has neurofibromatosis and previously appeared in Aaron's 2019 film Chained For Life

The Marvel Studios star leaned toward Adam as they attended the Variety Sundance Studio

Sebastian, Adam, Aaron and Renate also stopped by the Variety Sundance Studio, presented by Audible, to promote the movie

The stars answered questions at the Variety Sundance Studio about the A24 film

Adam also was seen at The Hollywood Reporter Studio, sponsored by Heineken Silver, Hyundai, Bogner, and SIXT, held at the Pendry Park City

Sebastian was spotted earlier this month filming his Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice in Toronto, Canada.

He was pictured shooting with costar Maria Bakalova, 27, who portrays the late Ivana Trump in the film.

Production on The Apprentice began in late November.

The film follows Trump in the '70s and '80s as he attempts to establish his real estate empire on the back of his father Fred Trump's properties.
Dina Broadhurst appears to be living life to the fullest after she was recently spotted passionately kissing a mystery man in Rose Bay, Sydney.

The 'nude artist', 46, turned up the heat on Monday when she posted some very racy photos to Instagram, capturing her posing up a storm in a see-through blue dress.

The brunette beauty set temperatures soaring in the snaps which showed her going braless in a figure-hugging light blue frock which left very little to the imagination.

Dina allowed her luscious brunette locks to hang freely around her shoulders and she looked focused as she flaunted her nipples to the camera.

The stunner left no doubt as to why she is one of Sydney's leading socialites and captivated her followers with her dazzling allure.

Dina Broadhurst (pictured) appears to be living life to the fullest after she was recently spotted passionately kissing a mystery man. The 'nude artist', 46, turned up the heat on Monday when she posted photos to Instagram, capturing her posing up a storm in a see-through blue dress

Dina appears to be embracing life after breaking up with her 'toy boy' Max Shepherd last year.

It comes after the socialite was recently linked to millionaire property investor Tony Benjamin.

Back in October, she appeared to soft launch a new beau on Instagram by posting a very revealing beachside snap.

The photo in question showed a bikini-clad Dina lying on a towel at a scenic beach.

The brunette beauty set temperatures soaring in the snaps which showed her going braless in a figure-hugging light blue frock which left very little to the imagination. Dina looked focused as she flaunted her nipples to the camera

A mystery man's hands were seen caressing her back, however his face was notably cut off the frame.

'Long weekend heat,' she wrote next to the photo and added a scorching sun emoji.

In August, Dina was thrust into the headlines after she was spotted canoodling with Tony in the Eastern Suburbs.

The pair were photographed kissing during a stroll along the famous Bondi to Bronte walk.

Tony is said to have previously been in a professional and romantic relationship with Potts Point jeweller Chrissi James.

Well-placed eastern suburbs sources say silver-haired fox Tony has in the past been referred to as 'Mr Sexy Time' and has dated several local socialites over the years.
Russell Crowe has slammed a 'shonky' real estate firm in Malta for using a deep fake video of himself to flog properties.

The Australian Hollywood legend, 59, lashed out at the 'obviously fake' footage and urged his followers not to be duped by it.

In the hoaxed video, an unconvincing and grainy Crowe delivers a monologue extolling the company's new app, as poorly-edited aerial clips of prime Maltese real estate roll in the background.

'Ladies and gentlemen, I'm excited to share some fantastic news with you, especially for those of you in Malta or anyone considering a move to this beautiful island,' the fake Crowe says.

The Hollywood legend, 59, lashed out at the 'obviously fake' footage and urged his followers not to be duped by it (pictured)

'I recently discovered an incredible tool that has made my house-hunting experience truly seamless and enjoyable.'

Crowe took to X to slam the video.

'This is going around in Malta. It is obviously fake BS, dont fall for it,' he told his 2.9 million followers.

'What else is obvious is that this service/business must be shonky and underhanded to resort to this way of promoting itself.'

'Block, report, ignore. Ive never used this service & I do not endorse this BS.'

'Swipelets', the company behind the blatant forgery, appeared unashamed.

'Thrilled to unveil our partnership with the legendary Russell Crowe!', boasts its latest Instagram post, made just ten hours ago.

'Swipelets', the company behind the blatant forgery, appeared unashamed and boasted of their 'partnership with the legendary Russell Crowe'

Crowe (pictured) stopped to take selfies with fans outside in the Maltese capital Valletta, last June

'Swipelets x Real Estate Agency Malta join forces with the Gladiator himself, bringing you unparalleled real estate experiences.

'Stay tuned for exclusive listings and a touch of Hollywood magic!'

Daily Mail Australia approached the company for comment.

Crowe has long been a fan of Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean sea between Sicily and the coast of North Africa.

The Australian star achieved global renown playing the lead in Ridley Scott's 2000 Gladiator, with many of the scenes filmed in Malta.

He also performed with his band The Gentlemen Barbers last June in the capital, Valletta.

At the time, he joked about making the tax haven his second home.

'You never know...there have been discussion on citizenship,' he told a press conference.
Olivia Wilde kept her look simple but chic as she stepped out in Pasadena, California on Sunday night.

The 39-year-old showed off her enviable figure in a high-neck long black maxi dress as she posed for photographers while attending the opening night performance of Kate at Pasadena Playhouse.

Comedian Kate Berlant's hit show is running at the venue until February 11 and sees Kate reflect on the events of her life that brought her to that very moment.

For Sunday's outing, Olivia teamed her all-black ensemble with a pair of matching platform boots to add some extra height.

She wore her dark blonde tresses in loose waves around her shoulders and kept her makeup natural-looking for the event.

Olivia Wilde rocked a casual chic look as she attended the opening night performance of Kate at Pasadena Playhouse

The 39-year-old wore a long black maxi dress that she teamed with a pair of matching platform boots for the night out

Olivia wore her dark blonde tresses in loose waves around her shoulders and kept her makeup natural-looking for the event

The sleeveless number meant Olivia's arm tattoos were on full display. She got her galaxy tattoo back in July 2018 and also has the quote 'all love, A,' inked which is thought to be a tribute to her late uncle.

The Don't Worry Darling director's latest outing comes after she appeared in good spirits as she was snapped leaving a workout in Studio City last week.

She wore a baggy, long-sleeved, oversized pink jumper over tight purple leggings for the outing.

Olivia kept warm by layering the sweater with a jean jacket which she kept her arms out of, while holding a blue Stanley flask.

The actress has a busy 2024 ahead of her.

It was revealed in April 2023 that Olivia will be adapting Jennifer Egan's novels A Visit From The Goon Squad and The Candy House for television.

The busy movie-maker is also reportedly attached to direct an upcoming Spider-Woman film.

Olivia, who rose to fame in medical drama House, is frequently spotted with ex-fiance Jason Sudeikis, 48, as they continue to co-parent.

Olivia smiled for photographers as she posed on the red carpet before watching comedian Kate Berlant's hit show

The Don't Worry Darling director kept her look simple but chic for Sunday night's outing

Her latest appearance comes after she was snapped leaving a workout in Studio City last week

She shares two children with the actor: daughter Daisy Josephine Sudeikis, 7, and 9-year-old son Otis Alexander Sudeikis.

Olivia and Jason began dating in 2011, got engaged in 2013, and broke up in 2020. She was controversially served custody papers by him while she was on stage at CinemaCon.

After her split from Jason, Olivia was famously in a relationship with Harry Styles, and the pair dated for almost two years before it was revealed they'd split in November 2022.

Harry is now thought to be dating Taylor Russell, 29, who is also an actress.

Olivia is reportedly single, but was spotted cosying up to film producer Bryn Mooser in Los Angeles towards the end of 2023.
Sofia Vergara commanded attention in a leopard skirt as she arrived for a night out at pal Bad Bunny's Gekko restaurant in Miami on Sunday.

The Griselda actress, 51, looked incredible in the bold midi number which she teamed with a black strapless corset.

She elevated her frame in a pair of towering black heels and toted her belongings around in a matching Chanel crossbody handbag.

Leaving her long brunette tresses loose, the America's Got Talent judge simply accessorised with a dazzling silver pendant necklace.

She seemed in high spirits as she headed inside with her pals while her ex husband Joe Manganiello stepped out shopping in West Hollywood with their dog.

Sofia Vergara commanded attention in a leopard skirt and a black corset top as she arrived for a night out at pal Bad Bunny's Gekko restaurant in Miami on Sunday

The Modern Family actress, 51, looked incredible in the bold number which she teamed with towering heels and a Chanel handbag

The Magic Mike actor, 47, who got custody of their 11-year-old Chihuahua Bubbles - according to TMZ, carried her in a beige blanket as he headed to his car.

He cut a casual figure in a Guns N' Roses hoodie which he teamed with black trousers, colourful trainers and a pair of stylish sunglasses.

Sofie split from Joe last year after seven years of marriage because he wanted to children and the Colombian bombshell didn't, having welcomed her 32-year-old son Manolo during her two-year marriage to high school sweetheart Joe Gonzalez, which ended in 1993.

It's shocking that Joe never fully discussed the topic considering Sofia was locked in a highly-publicized, five-year legal battle against her ex-fiance Nick Loeb over their two female frozen embryos.

The first sign of trouble happened in June 2023 when the former couple put their seven-bedroom, 11-bathroom Beverly Hills marital mansion on the market for $18M.

Earlier this week, Sofia showed that she's determined to offload her luxurious Beverly Hills mansion after relisting it with a shocking $5.7 million decrease in the asking price.

Meanwhile her ex husband Joe Manganiello stepped out shopping in West Hollywood with their dog Bubbles, which he won custody for during their divorce

The Magic Mike actor, 47, cut a casual figure in a Guns N' Roses hoodie which he teamed with black trousers, colourful trainers and a pair of stylish sunglasses as he headed back to his car

Sofie split from Joe last year after seven years of marriage (pictured May 6, 2023)

It comes as Sofia is currently busy promoting her new Netflix series Griselda where she transformed into the Colombian drug lord - the series is set for release on January 25 (pictured in character)

The actress is now trying to offload the estate for $13.95 million, according to TMZ.

It comes after she opened up about what life has been like in the past six months since legally separating from her second husband Joe after seven years of marriage.

'I've been moving on,' she said.

'You're out there [in the public eye] and people know that's part of being a celebrity. I knew [the press attention] was gonna happen. You can't hide those things.'

Sofia continued: 'It wasn't bad. I think, you know, I have to say the press was very respectful and very nice...

'And I thought that they were gonna invent more things, and you know how it usually is. I was surprised and, you know, they, they kind of just said what it was and, and that was it.'

It comes as Sofia is currently busy promoting her new Netflix series Griselda where she transformed into Colombian drug lord Griselda Blanco, who grew her cartel into one of the most profitable and notorious in the world.

While Sofia has been enthusiastically promoting the series, the family of Griselda Blanco is seeking to block release of the story about the legendary cartel leader.

The family filed a lawsuit over its alleged 'unauthorized use of their family's image and likeness.'

Blanco's only living son Michael filed the lawsuit, TMZ reported. It names Sofia and Netflix as defendants.

The series is set for release on January 25  but the family has asked a judge for an injunction.
Michelle Keegan has broken her silence on quitting the UK for Hollywood.

Last week, it was reported that the Brassic actress, 36, could be set for a move to Los Angeles following the success of her Netflix series Fool Me Once.

Michelle, who is married to former TOWIE star Mark Wright, 37, already has some experience of LA life because her husband lived there for a few years while working for Extra.

In a new interview with The Guardian, Michelle has revealed that she would consider re-locating if the perfect role came along.

The former Coronation Street star said: 'I went to America when Mark was out there. Didn't like it. But let's see. If a job comes up I guess?...

Michelle Keegan, 36, has broken her silence on quitting the UK for Hollywood after reports that she could be set for a move following the success of her Netflix series Fool Me Once

In a new interview with The Guardian, the actress has revealed that she would consider re-locating if the perfect role came along

'I've never thought beyond what I'm doing right at that moment. And I think that's how I live now as well. I don't think in terms of goals. I live in the moment.'

Michelle starred as Maya Stern in Fool Me Once, alongside Joanna Lumley in the series adaptation of Harlan Coben's novel, which quickly shot to the top of Netflix charts worldwide.

Amid her huge success, it has been claimed that the logical next step for Michelle would be a move to LA amid reports that she has been inundated with Hollywood offers.

Industry expert Nick Ede told how Fool Me Once could propel the former Coronation Street actress into becoming a 'major' global movie star.

He told OK! Magazine: 'It's really given Michelle a platform to make her a major star. All eyes are on her at the moment because Netflix is watched by millions of people globally and her series is number one here and in the US.

'She looks every inch the Hollywood leading lady and she has star quality,' he continued.

'As a Hollywood producer or director, you want somebody who's the whole package  and that's Michelle.'

His comments come after it was revealed that Michelle is among the bookies' favourites to land the lead female role in the next Bond movie.

The actress has been given the seal of approval by gambling experts following her success in Netflix's new hit drama.

Gambling.com told MailOnline: 'Michelle Keegan has recently announced herself on the world stage in Netflix's Fool Me Once, in a starring role as grieving mother Maya Stern, who spends the series on a solo mission to investigate her husband's death after appearing to see him on her nanny cam when he was presumed dead.

'Michelle, who is 5/2 to be the next Bond Girl, started out in soaps, starring as barmaid Tina McIntyre in Coronation Street for six years.

'That means she already knows how to perfect a martini - shaken, not stirred - but more than that, she could be an ideal MI6 colleague for Bond.'

Jodie Comer, who is known for starring in the hit BBC spy thriller Killing Eve, has been labelled a 6/4 favourite to land the next female Bond lead.
Former Great British Bake Off star Ruby Bhogal has confirmed her engagement to long-term partner James Stewart - but admits the moment was ruined because she had food poisoning.

Bhogal, 34, accepted the proposal after BBC presenter Stewart got down on bended knee during a recent trip to New York.

Taking to Instagram on Monday morning, Bhogal revealed he asked for her hand in marriage more than three weeks ago, but opted to tell each of her family members before making the engagement public. 

She wrote: 'Have deceptively been hiding my hand in the recent the vids because its taken me about 3 weeks to tell most of my family whilst it took James a whole 3 minutes.'

But Bhogal, a Bake Off finalist in 2018, was forced to cut the proposal short because she was stricken with a sudden bout of sickness.

Former Great British Bake Off star Ruby Tandoh has confirmed her engagement to long-term partner James Stewart after his surprise proposal

She added: 'I wish we had a romantic story to go alongside it but food poisoning managed to kick in right about 5 mins before he was about propose and I was about to have a bridesmaid moment running across the street... so yay for love and yay for uncooked chicken in NYC.

'I love this life (time to start planning a big FAT Indian wedding but all Im thinking about is the CAKE am I right?!)'

Prior to his proposal Stewart had pranked Bhogal by surreptitiously hiding the ring in plain sight while she obliviously went about her day.

In a series of Instagram posts, she is seen brushing her teeth, sleeping on a plane and walking through Central Park while the presenter repeatedly flashes the ring without her noticing.

Addressing the photo of her sleeping as they flew to New York, she added: 'Lets not talk about the horror show that is the second pic - no one looks cute sleeping on a plane okay?'

Bhogal, a former project manager from London, set more than a few Bake Off fan hearts aflutter after making her debut on the Channel 4 show.

Her glowing skin, dark hair in a effortless messy ponytail and pretty features left some viewers head over heels within minutes of watching her on screen.

Men and women tweeted their admiration for Bhogal's physical attributes, with many members of the gay community also voicing their support for the dark-haired beauty.

Prior to his proposal Stewart had pranked Bhogal by surreptitiously hiding the ring in plain sight while she obliviously went about her day

In one post the baker is pictured sleeping on their flight as he flashes her soon-to-be engagement ring

Bhogal brushes her teeth, not realizing Stewart has placed the engagement ring on their bed

Bhogal also received more camera time than any other contestant on the premiere episode of season nine.

She featured on the 75 minute show 85 times during a collective 5 minutes and 38 seconds - despite two failed baking attempts.

In comparison, fellow baker Jon Jenkins was shown just 47 times over two minutes and fifteen seconds during his impressive turn, while 'Star Baker' Manon Lagreve was given 4 minutes and 30 seconds.
This Morning's showbiz reporter Sian Welby is hosting the show alongside Dermot O'Leary this week as ITV continue to search for a replacement for Holly Willoughby.

Viewers were impressed with her debut as she took the helm on Monday as they said she was doing a 'great job' and 'brought fun to the show'.

ITV bosses were said to be impressed with Sian after a number of appearances on the programme and have paired her with Dermot to anchor Monday to Thursday.

One viewer said in reaction to the change up of hosts: 'Doing a great job @sianwelby'.

Another wrote: 'Can't believe @Sianwelby is hosting @thismorning! After listening to her for years on Capital, always knew she was going to smash it.'

This Morning's showbiz reporter Sian Welby is hosting the show alongside Dermot O'Leary this week as ITV continue to search for a replacement for Holly Willoughby

Viewers were impressed with her debut as she took the helm as they said she was doing a 'great job'

A third wrote: 'Got to say I like @Sianwelby as host. Makes the show fun to watch. #ThisMorning.'

Sources at the network say that Sian, 37, is a 'rising star' and want to give her a chance to show if she can present the daytime show.

One told MailOnline: 'Sian has many years of presenting experience under her belt, she is very much ear marked as being a star of the future.

'She has done really well already on This Morning so the bosses thought it was time to give her the reins to the whole show rather than just segments.'

They continued: 'Viewers love a new, fresh face on the show so everyone involved in it is really excited.'

On the show Austin Butler shocked This Morning viewers as he took over the Spin To Win segment on Monday's show.

The Hollywood heartthrob, 32, brought some A-list energy to the daytime show as he appeared alongside his Masters of the Air co-star Callum Turner on the sofa.

But before their interview Austin was roped in to help out with Spin To Win alongside hosts Dermot and Sian - leaving him looking rather bemused.

One viewer said in reaction to the change up of hosts on This Morning: 'Doing a great job @sianwelby'

She looked great in a denim jumpsuit that was cinched in at the waist as she made her hosting debut on the show

Austin Butler shocked This Morning viewers as he took over the Spin To Win segment on Monday's show

The Hollywood heartthrob, 32, brought some A-list energy to the daytime show as he appeared alongside his Masters of the Air co-star Callum Turner on the sofa

But before their interview Austin was roped in to help out with Spin To Win alongside hosts Dermot and Sian - leaving him looking rather bemused

Viewers were quick to react to the huge star's unlikely involvement in the segment as one joked: 'Who has forced Austin Butler to go on this morning.'

Another said: 'Nothing to see here. Just Austin Butler playing Spin to Win on #ThisMorning.'

A third said: 'AUSTIN BUTLER AND CALUM TURNER ON MY TV LIVEEEEE OMG this is huge for me why are they on this morning.'

A fourth penned: 'Austin butler does not know what to do with himself right now #thismorning.'

A fifth said: 'Austin butler on this morning wasn't on my 2024 predictions ngl.'

Someone else said: 'Austin Butler spinning the wheel on This Morning has got to be the most uncomfortable, unnatural thing I've ever seen .'

Another wrote: 'Austin butler playing spin to win #thismorning.'

After the Spin To Win segment he joined Callum, 33, on the sofa for a chat about their new Apple TV+ show Masters of the Air.

The synopsis reads: 'During World War II, airmen risk their lives with the 100th Bomb Group, a brotherhood forged by courage, loss and triumph.'

Austin explained: 'We play two pilots that others in the group looked up to. It was like Band Of Brothers.'

Callum added: 'These guys changed the direction of the war so to play them was an honour. We had to do a boot camp to prepare for the series.

'What these guys did was for us, we are taking on a legacy and we are so grateful to what they did. My grandad was 16 in the war!'

Sian hosts Capital Breakfast alongside Roman Kemp and is also a regular reporter for This Morning.

She and Dermot were joined in the studio by Hollywood stars Kevin Hart and Gugu Mbatha Raw to chat about the new action packed heist film LIFT, as well as catching up with comedian and former Strictly winner, Bill Bailey.

During an appearance on Wednesday's This Morning, it was announced that Sian would be hosting the show, as she donned a chic shirt dress from Dancing Leopard.

Alison Hammond and Dermot will continue to host their as usual Friday slot.

Sian hosts Capital Breakfast alongside Roman Kemp and is also a regular reporter for This Morning, with show bosses dubbing her a 'rising star'

Sian is the former anchor of Channel 5 News after being spotted by chiefs at the broadcaster in 2010.

She also hosted a show on Heart Radio between 2017 and 2020.

Sian's role on This Morning comes three months after Ms Willoughby quit after 14 years at the helm of This Morning after an alleged kidnap plot was revealed.

Former security guard Gavin Plumb has also been accused of incitement to murder her. Since then, ITV bosses have been searching for a replacement for her.

They were left 'gutted' last month when Cat Deeley ruled herself out of the role after signing for US talent show, So You Think You Can Dance.

Chiefs also had their eye on The Voice presenter Emma Willis but she is understood to have turned down the job as she can't commit to three days.

Christine Lampard was also said to not be keen on working four days a week.

I'm A Celeb star Josie Gibson has been hosting the show for the last two weeks.
Ncuti Gatwa displayed his very toned physique as he posed for shirtless mirror selfies while in the gym on Monday.

The Doctor Who actor, 31, looked incredible as he showcased his chiselled abs and large biceps while wearing a pair of black shorts and trainers.

In a second Instagram snap, the Sex Education star added a fitted tight long sleeved top from Rihanna's Savage X Fenty line.

Fans couldn't believe Ncuti's amazing body transformation as they joked they were now in need of a 'Doctor'.

One wrote: 'Doctor Doctor Please let me be your gym companion'.

Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa, 31, displayed his very toned physique as he posed for shirtless Instagram mirror selfies while in the gym on Monday

The upcoming 2024 season of the smash hit sci-fi show will return to screens in May for an eight-episode run, with Ncuti taking over as the iconic Time Lord (pictured with Millie Gibso)

Others added : 'Looking so dam good!'; 'Omg those thighs!!!'; 'Oh, I think I need a Doctor now...'; 'Dr Whoahhh!'

It comes after Ncuti broke his silence on Millie Gibson's reported departure from Doctor Who after just one series.

The former Coronation Street actress, 19, made her much-anticipated debut as the Fifteenth Doctor's companion Ruby Sunday in the 2023 Christmas special.

The upcoming 2024 season of the smash hit sci-fi show will return to screens in May for an eight-episode run, with Ncuti taking over as the iconic Time Lord.

However, Millie's character Ruby has reportedly already been written out by showrunner Russell T Davies and it has been said she will be replaced by Varada Sethu for Ncuti's second series.

After the news became public, Ncuti took to his Instagram Stories and shared a photo with Millie and wrote: 'My lil [heart emoji].

She will reportedly only appear in a handful of episodes before being replaced by Varada, 32, who is said to have already started filming at the show's Cardiff studios.

Varada is well known for playing DS Mishal Ali in the BBC apocalyptic TV Series Hard Sun and also featured in Now You See Me 2 as Michael Caine's character's assistant.

In a second snap, the Sex Education star added a fitted tight long sleeved top from Rihanna's Savage X Fenty line

Fans couldn't believe Ncuti's amazing body transformation as they joked they are now in need of a 'Doctor'

Previous Doctor Who companion Bill Potts, portrayed by Pearl Mackie, only had a one-series run on the sci-fi show alongside Peter Capaldi's version of the Doctor.

Other companions have had stayed on the show for a number of years, including Jenna Coleman's Clara Oswald, Billie Piper's character Rose Tyler and Karen Gillan's Amy Pond.

Doctor Who fans finally got to see Ncuti and Millie on-screen together in the hotly-anticipated Christmas special.

The festive episode saw Ncuti's incarnation of the famous traveller battle an army of goblins intent on causing bad luck for Ruby (Millie), an orphan determined to discover the truth about her past.

Penned by showrunner Russell T Davies, Ncuti's performance was universally praised by fans, with many stunned to learn of his unexpected singing talents during the episode's musical number.
Ewan McGregor was covered in blood while cameras were rolling in Russia, on Sunday.

The Scottish actor, 52, carried his co-star Beau Gadsdon, 15, into a vintage car while filming the final scenes for his upcoming TV series A Gentleman In Moscow.

Ewan was dressed in a fitted grey waistcoat over a white shirt and dark tie as he played out the role of Count Alexander Rostov for the Paramount+ show.

Sporting a bushy moustache and a long dark-haired wig, the talented star looked worlds apart from his usual clean cut self.

A Gentleman In Moscow, tells the story of a Russian aristocrat who is spared from death and placed on house arrest while the Bolshevik Revolution plays out before him.

Ewan McGregor, 52, was covered in blood while cameras were rolling in Russia, on Sunday

The Scottish actor carried his co-star Beau Gadsdon, 15, into a vintage car while filming the final scenes for his upcoming TV series A Gentleman In Moscow

Ewan was dressed in a fitted grey waistcoat over a white shirt and dark tie

Ewan stars alongside his real-life wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead, 39, who takes on the part of Anna Urbanova.

The actor was previously married to his first wife Eve Mavrakis, 56, for 22 years, and the couple share four daughters together.

They met one another on the set of the TV crime drama Kavanagh QC, but sadly split in 2017 after 22 years of marriage after Ewan he was pictured kissing his Fargo co-star Mary.

Ewan and Eve's divorce was finalised in August 2020, blaming 'irreconcilable differences.'

They are parents to daughters Clara, 27, and Esther, 21 and Anouk, 12, and Ewan adopted daughter Jamyan, 21, with production designer Eve in 2006.

The Moulin Rouge! actor tied the knot with second wife Mary in April 2022. They share a two-year-old son, Laurie.

Ewan and his eldest daughter Clara have had a rocky relationship, since she famously branded his second wife Mary a 'piece of trash' called him an 'a***hole'.

But the father and daughter have repaired their relationship over the past five years and recently completed work on their first joint project.

Sporting a bushy moustache and a long dark-haired wig, the talented star looked worlds apart from his usual clean cut self

He was filmed playing out the role of Count Alexander Rostov for the Paramount+ show

Both Beau and Ewan appeared to be in great spirits as they took breaks from filming on set

Ewan appeared frantic as he sat with the actress inside the vintage Mercedes

Beau smiled widely while off-duty and chatting to crew members on the set of the TV series

The Scottish actor looked elated while chatting to crew members between takes

A Gentleman In Moscow, tells the story of a Russian aristocrat who is spared from death and placed on house arrest while the Bolshevik Revolution plays out before him

Ewan looked happy that filming had wrapped, hugging crew and castmates

The Hollywood star was chauffeur driven to and from the set to film scenes

Ewan was sure to shake hands with those working on the film and share farewell hugs

You Sing Loud, I Sing Louder, is a film conceived by Clara, with Ewan explaining of his daughter's pitch to him: 'She tells me that she'd come up with an idea about writing about us. At first I was a bit nervous. I didn't know what that meant.'

The film focuses on a father-daughter road trip, with Ewan's character driving his daughter, played by Clara, to rehab.

While the drive is fictional, the premise of a father trying to help his daughter is based on Clara's own experience.

'I sat down to read it and I was blown away. It was a beautiful story about us. There's things that aren't accurate, or are bent, but they still reflect our estrangement for a while,' he explained.

'The drive is fictional. But for a couple of years, we sort of lost her. So the storyline is about her realising that she needs the help her father's trying to give. Along the way, their relationship is healed somewhat.'
Jackie 'O' Henderson was left embarrassed when she arrived to work at the KISS FM studios late on Monday.

The radio host had been out partying the night before and was greeted by staffers offering a round of applause as she finally got to the studio.

Her co-host Kyle Sandilands was already on air, earlier joking that Jackie was late because she had left a man she'd picked up the night before in her house.

'Have you left a fella at your joint? Is that why you slept in?' Kyle asked with Jackie insisting 'No! No!'

A very bashful Jackie reacted with shock as various staffers clapped her all the way into the studio.

Jackie 'O' Henderson (pictured) was left embarrassed when she arrived to work at the KISS FM studios late on Monday

Jackie had been out with Pip Edwards with the pair spotted getting close at an exclusive Bondi Beach restaurant on Sunday night.

The radio queen, 48, and P.E Nation founder, 43, enjoyed some food and beverages with a group of friends at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar.

Jackie and Pip have been getting close since September last year when the radio host announced the socialite would join her on a Fiji trip.

The tropical holiday was organised by Besties, the business venture Jackie runs with her best friend Gemma O'Neill.

The radio host had been out partying the night before and was greeted by staffers offering a round of applause as she finally got to the studio

Her co-host Kyle Sandilands (pictured) was already on air, earlier joking that Jackie was late because she had left a man she'd picked up the night before in her house

The business is touted as 'a space that gives you and your BFF the perfect opportunity to spend more time with each other, creating additional memories together,' according to their website.

The venture claims to 'take you to the most breathtaking and exclusive destinations on group holiday adventures, plus spoil you with ranges of luxe products specifically and personally curated by us for you'.

For the Fiji Besties event, Jackie O announced designer Pip, home makeover crew Three Birds Renovations, comedian Celeste Barber, and The Good Mood Clinic would also be joining her.

Just a few months later, Jackie and her new pal Pip enjoyed a business lunch together with Jackie's business partner Gemma.

Jackie had been out with Pip Edwards (left) with the pair spotted getting close at an exclusive Bondi Beach restaurant on Sunday night
It has been revealed that the estate of Griselda Blanco are planning to sue Sofia Vergara and Netflix over the upcoming biographical series about the drug boss.

Griselda, which is pegged for global release on the service on January 25, sees the actress, 51, depict the life and crimes of the ruthless Colombian boss, who created one of the most profitable cartels in history before her assassination in 2012.

The career criminal, who was only five feet tall, was involved with pickpocketing and prostitution from a young age - but it didn't take long before her crimes began to escalate as she rose to infamous prominence in the crime world.

Having been plunged into the cocaine industry by her second husband, who she later killed, Griselda built a thriving drugs empire that saw her earning more than a staggering $80million every month.

So who was the formidable Griselda - the woman known as The Black Widow, The Godmother Of Cocaine and The Boss?

Griselda Blanco, who was only five feet tall, was involved with pickpocketing and prostitution from a young age - but it didn't take long before her crimes began to escalate

Sofia Vergara is set to bring the staggering crimes of the female drug baron to life in an upcoming Netflix drama (pictured)

Netflix is now gearing up to release its six-part drama that will explore ' Blanco's lethal blend of unsuspected savagery and charm helped her expertly navigate between business and family

It was claimed that Griselda got caught up on a path of pickpocketing and prostitution with rumors even circulating that she helped kidnap a small boy when she was just 11 years old

Griselda was forced into pickpocketing and prostitution from a young age before her crimes drastically escalated

Griselda Blanco, who was born in Santa Marta, Colombia, grew up in poverty and the lack of money forced her into a life of crime from an early age.

It was claimed that she got caught up on a path of pickpocketing and prostitution with rumors even circulating that she helped kidnap a small boy when she was just 11 years old.

The tale states that she then took it upon herself to fatally shoot the boy after his wealthy parents refused to pay the ransom.

She went on to marry a small-time criminal when she was still a teen and the couple went on to have three children together.

The pair later divorced and she is said to have ordered her ex-husband's murder in the wake of their split.

But she went on to find love again with drug trafficker Alberto Bravo who soon got her caught up in the cocaine industry.

The couple used New York as their base as they smuggled drugs into the US - and Griselda appeared to have a knack for it.

She used every trick in the book to ensure a profitable trade and her methods even included having lingerie made with secret compartments to hide drugs in.

But it was not all plain sailing.

Griselda soon found herself facing drugs charges and so fled to Columbia in 1975 to avoid US authorities.

Later that year, she began to suspect that Bravo was stealing money from her and the pair got caught up in a shoot out that resulted in his death.

Little detail is known about her third husband but he was also reportedly killed by her hand - earning her the Black Widow moniker.

Griselda had four sons Michael, Osvaldo, Uber and Dixon (pictured together) but was nicknamed the Black Widow

The drugs baron started earning more than $80 million EVERY month - and was not afraid to flaunt it

By the late 1970s, Griselda had moved to back to the US and settled in Miami where she continued trading and became known as The Godmother of Cocaine.

She became increasingly protective of her illicit empire and sought to eliminate any competition by whatever means necessary.

Reflecting on the case in 1993, The Drug Enforcement Administration said: 'Griselda loved killings. Bodies lined the streets of Miami as a result of her feuds.

'She gathered around her a group of henchmen known as the Pistoleros. Initiation into the group was earned by killing someone and cutting off a body part as proof of the deed...

'She not only killed rivals and wayward lovers, but used murder as a means of cancelling debts she didn't want to pay. A particularly bloody massacre that took place in July 1979 in a Miami shopping center became known as the Dadeland Massacre.'

She also lived up to her persona as she even named her son Michael Corleone - after the crime boss in The Godfather film series with the first installment released in 1972

And, as a result, the drugs baron is believed to have been responsible for more than 200 deaths - usually carried out in broad daylight by gunmen on motorcycles.

The ruthless violence escalated in the area and plunged the state into an unsettled period coined as the 'Cocaine Cowboy Wars'.

But all the volatility ultimately worked in Griselda's favor.

As she continued to remove her competition from the market, she became one of the wealthiest drug traffickers in the world.

She smuggled more than three tons of cocaine into America every year and raked in more than $80 million per month, according to reports.

And the criminal mastermind did not shy away from outwardly splashing the cash, reportedly shelling out on luxury homes and hedonistic parties.

She also brazenly named her son Michael Corleone - after the crime boss in The Godfather film series with the first installment released in 1972.

Griselda Blanco, who was born in Santa Marta, Colombia, grew up in poverty and the lack of money forced her into a life of crime from an early age

Griselda's empire began to crumble before she was shot dead aged 69

Business began to take a downturn after Griselda was found guilty of drugs charges in 1985 and incarcerated.

She received the maximum sentence of 15 years but was still able to run her empire from behind bars.

However, the conviction spurred authorities to attempt to press additional charges against the career criminal - including more than 200 murders.

By 1994, one of her former hitmen - Jorge Ayala - agreed to testify against her and Griselda was charged with three murders.

One of them was that of a two-year-old boy who was fatally shot during a failed assassination attempt of his father - who was one of Griselda's former enforcers.

The investigation stalled but the drug baron decided to plead guilty in 1998 in a bid to reduce her sentence.

Following her release after 10 years in prison, she was deported to Colombia where she is said to have 'retired' from her life of crime.

But it appeared her past caught up with her and, in 2012, Griselda was shot and killed as she stepped out of a butcher shop in Medellin aged 69.

She still ranks among the most notorious drug lords in history and has been a central figure in documentaries such Cocaine Cowboys (2006) and Cocaine Cowboys 2: Hustlin' with the Godmother (2008) - as well as film The Cocaine Godmother (2017) starring Catherine Zeta Jones.

Business began to take a downturn after Griselda was found guilty of drugs charges in 1985 and incarcerated

NETFLIX BEEF

Griselda embraced her criminal persona and was not afraid to flaunt her ill-gotten gains, making her an icon in the world of crime.

But things began to unravel after she was incarcerated as authorities sought to press charges against the devoted mother for more than 200 murders.

Griselda went on to serve 10 years behind bars before being deported back to Colombia where she was shot and killed at 69 as she stepped out of a butchers.

Netflix is now gearing up to release its six-part drama that will explore how 'Blanco's lethal blend of unsuspected savagery and charm helped her expertly navigate between business and family'.

While crime fans have been voicing their excitement, her family are less than pleased, as Modern Family star Sofia is being sued by her estate who want to block the new Netflix series over its alleged 'unauthorized use of their family's likeness.'

Sofia who was slammed by the son of 'Cocaine Godmother' Blanco, stars in the series, which tells the story of how Blanco's legendary reign paved the way for the most infamous Colombian cartel.

A lawsuit obtained by TMZ and launched by Blanco's adult kids acting as representatives for her estate, names Vergara as a defendant and Netflix - with the estate suing both parties over what they claim is the unauthorized use of their family's image and likeness in this upcoming series.

The series is set for release on January 25 - but the family are trying to block its release and have asked a judge for an injunction.

Giselda's son Michael Corleone Blanco claims he has been doing interviews for years to try and get his and his mother's life story on paper in the hopes of developing into a production.

Netflix's Griselda is released on 25 January 2024.

While crime fans have been voicing their excitement, her family are less than pleased, as Modern Family star Sofia is being sued by her estate who want to block the new Netflix series over its alleged 'unauthorized use of their family's likeness'
Zendaya debuted a new look at the Schiaparelli's Spring Summer 2024 show for Haute Couture Fashion Week in Paris on Monday.

The Spider-Man star, 27, was not instantly recognisable as she donned a striking black wig for the event, that featured a short blunt fringe.

The actress displayed her impeccable sense of style as she donned a black silk skirt with a unique tail-like train that flowed down the steps behind her.

The actress teamed the eye-catching skirt with a black turtleneck with structured knots attached down the arms for a unique silhouette.

She added black fishnet stockings for some added sex appeal and boosted her already towering height even further with black stilettos.

Zendaya debuted a new block fringe look at the Schiaparelli's Spring Summer 2024 show for Haute Couture Fashion Week in Paris on Monday

The Spider-Man star, 27, was not instantly recognisable as she donned a striking black wig for the event, that featured a short blunt fringe (her normal look seen right)

The actress displayed her impeccable sense of style as she donned a black silk skirt with a unique tail-like train that flowed down the steps behind her

Jennifer Lopez and Euphoria star Hunter Schafer were also in attendance at the show in the French capital.

It comes after Tom Holland has shared a sweet insight into his relationship with girlfriend Zendaya, after he was forced to address rumours they had split.

The actor, 27, cut a dapper figure in a brown three-piece suit on Sunday, as he attended the Critics Choice Awards 2024.

While on the red carpet, he shared several rare comments about Zendaya revealing that the pair like to watch their first film together, Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Speaking to Extra, Tom said: 'Zendaya and I will, every now and then, watch Spider-Man 1 and reminisce about being 19 and making those movies again.

'I love those movies, and I love savoring those moments, so I try not to watch them as often as I would maybe like to because it's so special. It's such a luxury, such a gift to be able to sit down and sort of relive your youth.'

He also divulged that the Euphoria actress supports him in his career, explaining that she watched his series The Crowded Room frequently and gave him feedback.

Tom said: 'She watched [The Crowded Room] with me while we were editing it  I would send her episodes and asked her what she thought, so she definitely has seen it more times than I would have expected her to see it.'

She added black fishnet stockings for some added sex appeal and boosted her already towering height even further with black stilettos

The actress teamed the eye-catching skirt with a black turtleneck with structured knots attached down the arms for a unique silhouette

Jennifer Lopez and Euphoria star Hunter Schafer were also in attendance at the show in the French capital

It comes after Tom Holland has shared a sweet insight into his relationship with girlfriend Zendaya , after he was forced to address rumours they had split

Tom's comments come after he denied he and Zendaya had split on Friday during an outing in Los Angeles.

He was asked by TMZ if he and the Dune star were 'broken up' to which he simply said: 'No, absolutely not.'

Rumours of a potential split between the popular couple have been on the rise in recent days after Zendaya unfollowed all accounts on her Instagram page.

Adding to the concern of fans is the fact that the Golden Globe winning actress and the Spider-Man actor haven't been photographed together since October 25, when they were snapped grocery shopping in Los Angeles.

However, a source with direct knowledge says the couple were seen together as recently as New Year's Eve, according to TMZ.

Zendaya was also seen stepping out in LA on Friday, opting to go on an errands run with her brother Austin.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Tom was photographed arriving at West Hollywood celeb hot spot Members Club solo.

But not being photographed together, does not necessarily mean they haven't been spending time together, as the couple are notoriously private.

Whether or not they have broken up remains to be seen as they are keeping the status of their relationship quiet, even with friends.

The sightings of Zendaya and Tom separately come after the two-time Emmy winner unfollowed everyone on Instagram, even Tom.

She has yet to explain the reason for the move, which came at the beginning of the New Year.

Zendaya hasn't been too active on social media across the board in recent months, with her X account not seeing a new post since September.

Earlier this month, she did share a poster for her new movie Challengers on Instagram, along with a brief message for her fans, writing: 'Challengers April 26th. Wishing you all the most beautiful new year'.

Before that, it's been over three months since she shared a proper post on her page, with the last being a photoshoot of herself in a plunging polka dot bodysuit, complete with flowers made from recycled bottles.

Speaking to Extra, Tom said: 'Zendaya and I will, every now and then, watch Spider-Man 1 and reminisce about being 19 and making those movies again'

He also divulged that the Euphoria actress supports him in his career, explaining that she watched his series The Crowded Room frequently and gave him feedback

L-R: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jennifer Lopez and Da'Vine Joy Randolph at the fashion show in Paris

She gave a friendly wave to the cameras as she headed into the show in the French capital

It comes after Zendaya was forced to deny that her and Tom had gotten engaged in September last year.

The couple have been dating for three years, with fans hoping the pair were set to tie the knot after Zendaya shared a photo on Instagram, wearing a ring on her engagement finger.

However, she soon took to her Stories to shut down the speculation, quipping: 'I can't post anything, you guys. I posted it for my hat!

'Like not for the ring on my right hand, you guys, seriously. You think that's how I would drop the news? You think, like, what!'
On Monday, Sian Welby made her debut as This Morning presenter.

And things got off to a roaring start for the Nottingham-born former weathergirl, 37, who has previously hosted showbiz segments on the magazine show.

After her debut alongside Dermot O'Leary, she went on to garner huge praise from viewers despite taking to Instagram prior to the appearance to nervously utter: 'I don't know who allowed this. Am I ready? Am I a liability?'

Her This Morning gig comes 18 years into her TV career, having started in adverts and then winning scores of fans with hilarious weather segments in 2015.

So who IS the pun-popping, showbiz-loving weathergirl turned TV savant?

On Monday, Sian Welby made her debut as This Morning presenter

And things got off to a roaring start for the Nottingham-born former weathergirl, 37, who has previously hosted showbiz segments on the magazine show

After her debut alongside Dermot O'Leary, she went on to garner huge praise from viewers despite taking to Instagram prior to the appearance to nervously utter: 'I don't know who allowed this. Am I ready? Am I a liability?'

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN?

Sian, who comes from Nottingham, began presenting at 19.

She was still working part-time as a shop assistant for New Look when a starring role in an advert for New! Magazine led to her being spotted by former Channel 5 owner Richard Desmond.

She was unveiled as the new face of Channel 5 News' weather in 2010 and has previously described how she would work as a retail assistant by day, and record online videos in the fitting room after the shop had closed.

Her rise to fame was cemented when she hosted a Star Wars themed report in 2015, which saw her reel off such gems as 'the Force is strong for northern Scotland' and 'tonight the weather strikes back'.

Sian is now best known for her work on Capital Breakfast, where she appears alongside Roman Kemp and Chris Stark every weekday between 6am and 10am

SUCCESSFUL STAR

Sian is now best known for her work on Capital Breakfast, where she appears alongside Roman Kemp and Chris Stark every weekday between 6am and 10am.

Prior to Capital, she had her own Heart FM evening show and her own Heart FM Sunday morning show.

Her This Morning lead hosting debut is not her first taste of fame on the show, as she has also hosted the showbiz segment and given I'm A Celeb news from Sian's Shack.

Further TV work for the star includes her weather presenting Channel 5 and her appearance on CBBC's Saturday Mash Up alongside Sonny Jay.

Her This Morning lead hosting debut is not her first taste of fame on the show, as she has also hosted the showbiz segment and given I'm A Celeb news from Sian's Shack (pictured centre in November)

Sian has been paired with Dermot to anchor Monday to Thursday next week while they continue to search for a replacement for Holly Willoughby (pictured in September)

BEHIND THE SCENES

In August last year, Sian revealed she was engaged to her radio producer beau Jake Beckett in a sweet Instagram post.

The pair looked delighted as they beamed for the camera as Sian wowed in a green bikini while they soaked up the sun during a boat trip on the romantic trip. She: 'On Tuesday I thought we were just going on a boat trip!!.

'Genuinely didn't see this coming. For once I am totally speechless. I didn't think it mattered until he asked me, and then it meant everything. Love you Jakey x 15.8.23.'

Sian's fiance Jake works for Heart Breakfast as a creative producer alongside hosts including Kelly Brook, Rochelle Humes, Vogue Williams and Emma Bunton.

Sian hosts Capital Breakfast alongside Roman Kemp and is also a regular reporter for This Morning, with show bosses dubbing her a 'rising star'

In August last year, Sian revealed she was engaged to her radio producer beau Jake Beckett in a sweet Instagram post

WHAT HAVE THE FANS GOT TO SAY?

In 2016, Sian became a viewer's favourite and internet sensation with her inventive ways of presenting the weather forecast, after which she revealed she was on a mission to make the weather more exciting with her pun-packed forecasts.

Speaking at the time about her success, she said: 'I'm trying to put more personality into the weather and make it less boring. A lot of the time I'm competing with reality stars or even pop stars when it comes to presenting jobs, things have changed a bit.'

She added: 'Since hosting the weather in my own style I've noticed a few channels copy my ideas, not just in the UK but in the US too,' but insisted she didn't mind.

On Monday meanwhile, Sian made her debut hosting the show alongside Dermot this week as ITV continue to search for a replacement for Holly Willoughby.

One viewer said in reaction to the change up of hosts on This Morning: 'Doing a great job @sianwelby'

Viewers were impressed with her debut as she took the helm as they said she was doing a 'great job'

Viewers were impressed with her debut as she took the helm, with delighted fans saying she was doing a 'great job' and 'brought fun to the show'.

ITV bosses were said to be impressed with Sian after a number of appearances on the programme and have paired her with Dermot to anchor Monday to Thursday.

One viewer said in reaction to the change up of hosts: 'Doing a great job @sianwelby... Can't believe @Sianwelby is hosting @thismorning! After listening to her for years on Capital, always knew she was going to smash it.'

Sources at the network say that Sian, 37, is a 'rising star' and want to give her a chance to show if she can present the daytime show.

One told MailOnline: 'Sian has many years of presenting experience under her belt, she is very much ear marked as being a star of the future.

'She has done really well already on This Morning so the bosses thought it was time to give her the reins to the whole show rather than just segments.'

They continued: 'Viewers love a new, fresh face on the show so everyone involved in it is really excited.'
Naomi Watts looked stylish as always while making her press rounds.

The 55-year-old actress - who cheered on husband Billy Crudup during his win at the Critics Choice Awards last week - was a wonder in a white ensemble as she arrived for an interview on Good Morning America in New York City on Monday morning.

She donned a white short sleeved top with an off-white midi skirt for the occasion as she is currently promoting upcoming series Feud: Capote vs. The Swans.

The King Kong actress contrasted the light look with black pieces including leather heels, a designer bag, and shades.

Naomi Watts looked stylish as always while making her press rounds

The 55-year-old British actress was a wonder in a white ensemble as she arrived for an interview on Good Morning America in New York City on Monday morning

Naomi also accessorized with gold jewelry including dangling earrings, a bracelet, and a few rings.

Her blonde bob was worn down as she showcased her natural looks with complementary make-up topped off with shiny pink lip.

In her upcoming project she plays Barbara Cushing Mortimer Paley - best known by the nickname Babe - who was an American magazine editor and socialite.

Feud: Capote vs. The Swans is the second season of the anthology television series Feud created by Ryan Murphy for FX, which debuted in 2017.

Directed by Gus Van Sant, Max Winkler, and Jennifer Lynch, it is written by Jon Robin Baitz.

Her character's second husband William S. Paley was the founder of CBS.

Affectionately known as 'Babe' throughout her life, Paley made notable contributions in the field of magazine editing.

She was a style icon known for her slender frame, bouffant hairstyle and elegant designer duds. Babe died in 1978.

She donned a white short sleeved top with an off-white midi skirt for the occasion as she is currently promoting upcoming series Feud: Capote vs. The Swans.

The King Kong actress contrasted the light look with black pieces including leather heels, a designer bag, and shades

Naomi also accessorized with gold jewelry including dangling earrings, a bracelet, and a few rings.

Her blonde bob was worn down as she showcased her natural looks with complementary make-up topped off with shiny pink lip

In her upcoming project she plays Barbara Cushing Mortimer Paley - best known by the nickname Babe - who was an American magazine editor and socialite

Affectionately known as 'Babe' throughout her life, Paley made notable contributions in the field of magazine editing

The real life Paley wearing a pink silk dress with a pearl necklace at the opening of the Museum of Modern Art's African Textiles and Decorative Arts exhibit in New York in the 1970s

Paley, the former Barbara Cushing Mortimer, of New York, is shown here in the 1950s

Feud: Capote vs. The Swans is set to air Wednesday nights on FX beginning on January 31

Naomi was nominated for Best Actress twice for 21 Grams and The Impossible, and she tied the knot with The Morning Show star Billy Crudup in June.

Watts started acting in her native Australia with a recurring role in Home and Away before ultimately moving to Los Angeles, with her breakout role in David Lynch's 2001 film Mulholland Drive.

She most recently starred in The Watcher, Goodnight Mommy and Infinite Storm, all released last year.

Feud: Capote vs. The Swans is set to air Wednesday nights on FX beginning on January 31.
Vicky McClure and her husband Jonny Owen have opened up on the inspiration behind their new venture, Day Fever.

The actress, 40, and the producer, 52, have created a nightclub event that takes place in the day, so that attendees can party hard and still make it home at a reasonable hour.

The club is aimed at those aged over 30 years old and the name is a nod to the Bee Gees' hit track, Night Fever.

The event is open from 2pm until 8pm and features a DJ set that can include both Vicky and Jonny and his daughter, radio presenter Katie Owen.

The Line of Duty and Trigger Point star told MailOnline the idea behind the club is to get people to 'put their phones down' and start socialising again.

Vicky McClure and her husband Jonny Owen have opened up on the inspiration behind their new venture, Day Fever (Vicky pictured at event)

The actress, 40, and the producer, 52, have created a nightclub event that takes place in the day, so that attendees can party hard and still make it home at a reasonable hour

The club is aimed at those aged over 30 years old and the name is a nod to the Bee Gees' hit track, Night Fever

She said: 'The world is very digital now, and this is a chance to put your phone down for a minute and have a chat and a dance with someone new.

'There was a guy in Sheffield, and he met a woman at one of our nights, and they're now together. And that's what it's about.'

Launched with the help of friends Johnny and Chris McClure and Jimmy OHara, Owen said he had been thinking about the idea for a while.

The idea for this was swilling around for me for a few years now, he said.

I wanted to recreate a nightclub how I remember them which is great music, a decent bar and people up dancing.

So I took the idea to a friend of mine who has a friend called Jimmy OHara, the founder of Tramlines festival in Sheffield. So we did it.'

The pair announced Day Fever in November 2023 and hosted their first event in Sheffield the weekend before Christmas.

Tickets sold out in 48 hours and the event was a huge hit, with their next Sheffield event in January selling out in 24 hours.

Now, they have announced events in London, Nottingham and Merthyr Tydfil in Wales where all tickets sold out in under three hours.

Jonny said the idea came from wanting to go out and party, whilst still making it home in time for Saturday night TV and not feeling too exhausted the following day.

He said: 'The idea for this was swirling around for me for a few years now. I wanted to recreate a nightclub how I remember them which is great music, a decent bar and people up dancing.

'And we've just sold 1,400 tickets for the London venue which is insane. It just goes to show you there's a market for this.

The event is open from 2pm until 8pm and features a DJ set that can include both Vicky and Jonny and his daughter, radio presenter Katie Owen (Jonny and Vicky pictured)

The Line of Duty and Trigger Point star told MailOnline the idea behind the club is to get people to 'put their phones down' and start socialising again

The couple announced Day Fever in November 2023 and hosted their first event in Sheffield the weekend before Christmas

Now, they have announced events in London, Nottingham and Merthyr Tydfil in Wales where all tickets sold out in under three hours

'We went to a nightclub in my generation, dressed up a little bit and would go for a drink and a boogie. And people still want to do that, but maybe just a little bit differently.

'They don't want to go out in the early hours anymore, they want to be home for Saturday night telly and a curry.'

With tickets costing no more than 15, the couple have now announced further dates after the demand has been so high.

Over the next months, MailOnline can reveal the event will appear in most major cities.

Vicky said: 'These smaller cities and towns, really need and want these things. Being able to sell out London has been a great achievement, that people have chosen to come and do it with us.'

Jonny added: 'We are really happy to announce that we are looking at bringing it to Cardiff, Nottingham and Sheffield again and also Manchester and Glasgow.

'We want one in every city. And my dream would be to take it global to Ibiza, Amsterdam, Benidorm.'

Jonny said the idea came from wanting to go out and party, whilst still making it home in time for Saturday night TV and not feeling too exhausted the following day
Kim Kardashian's daughter North West leaked a makeup-free selfie of her famous mother, which showed her true skin texture.

In the image, the 43-year-old reality star could be seen with her youngest little girl, Chicago West, six, who she shares with ex-husband Kanye West, outside under a shady white overhang.

The preteen, who loves performing like her dad, seemed to poke fun at her mom's looks as she captioned the image 'such a good picture' with several crying laughing emojis.

Unlike the images Kardashian typically posts of herself, the pictures, uploaded to her and North's TikTok, did not edit out any of her imperfections or wrinkles.

Kim Kardashian's daughter North West leaked a makeup-free selfie of her famous mother, which showed her true skin texture

Other snaps of Kardashian showed her holding up two peace signs as she packed for a snowy adventure.

Last month, Kardashian sent the internet into a frenzy after sharing a handful of new photos from her family's annual Christmas Eve bash.

In response to the pictures, the SKIMS founder's followers couldn't help but marvel over her striking resemblance to her youngest daughter.

'Chicago is literally your mini you!' one commented, while another raved 'Chi is your twin, she is beautiful.'

A third predicted that the tot will become the 'that girl' of her generation.

Another wrote: 'Chicago is such a pretty girl!'

In addition to dozens of comments pointing out that Chicago is her mother's 'look-alike' and 'doppelganger', Kardashian's sister, Khloe, wrote: 'All of the babies are serving!!!!! Wow wow wow.'

Kim filed for divorce in February 2021 but it was not finalized until November 2022, with the pair finally coming to an agreement over child support and custody.

In the image, the 43-year-old reality star could be seen with her youngest little girl, Chicago West, six, who she shares with ex-husband Kanye West, outside under a shady white overhang

Other snaps of Kardashian showed her holding up two peace signs as she packed for a snowy adventure

According to TMZ, Kim receives $200,000 in child support monthly and they agreed to joint custody and 'equal access' to their four kids.

Shortly after settling their divorce, Kanye married Australian architect Bianca Censori, 28.

The news shocked fans as they were unaware that he had been dating the Yeezy employee.

He was previously linked to actress Julia Fox, Kim Kardashian lookalike Chaney Jones and model Juliana Nalu.

Last month, Kardashian sent the internet into a frenzy after sharing a handful of new photos from her family's annual Christmas Eve bash

In response to the pictures, the SKIMS founder's followers couldn't help but marvel over her striking resemblance to her youngest daughter

Over the weekend, Kanye sparked backlash after posting a series of scandalous pictures of Censori posing almost naked.

The outrageous snaps were uploaded on Instagram on Saturday morning and featured his 29-year-old Australian wife wearing a nude string thong one piece.

In one of the photos uploaded by the controversial rapper, Bianca stood facing the kitchen counter preparing food whilst wearing the barely-there garment, black knee-high boots and a bizarre leather mask.

Ye captioned the shocking picture 'cream of wheat,' suggesting that his architect wife was cooking up some porridge in her strange outfit.

The post sparked outrage from the public - who commented their frustrations with the rapper's portrayal of his wife, especially considering his young daughters.

Over the weekend, Kim's ex-husband, Kanye West, sparked backlash after posting a series of scandalous pictures of Australian architect Bianca Censori posing almost naked

He was previously linked to actress Julia Fox, Kim Kardashian lookalike Chaney Jones and model Juliana Nalu (pictured in May 2023 with Censori)

'I'm sure he'll be real proud when a man is doing this with North or Chicago! This guy changes his point of view on life and morals more than he changes his draws,' one comment said.

'For some reason I always feel sorry for her when I see her in photos,' a user said.

'If sad was a pic,' another commented.

'Sickening. No respect for your wife,' said another.

The former-husband of American media star Kim Kardashian uploaded another snap of his much younger wife facing a wall in an empty hallway wearing the same provocative outfit with no caption.

Ye's risque Instagram posts prove the rapper to be a hypocrite, given his history of shaming Kim for her revealing clothes, despite none of her fashion choices being as explicit as Bianca's consistently revealing outfits.
Emily Ratajkowski looked ready for the runway as she headed for a breakfast meeting in New York City on Monday.

The model, 32, returned from a tropical getaway to be greeted by cloudy and cold temperatures in the Big Apple.

The cover model showcased her tiny waist in a belted brown puffy jacket.

She appeared to be wearing a black turtleneck sweater beneath the covering and a pair of black straight leg athleisure pants.

The runway veteran wore white sneakers as she navigated her way along the sometimes icy sidewalks and streets.

Emily Ratajkowski looked ready for the runway as she headed for a breakfast meeting in New York City on Monday

Emily's hair was styled straight with a curtain bang and she appeared to be wearing natural looking makeup with a soft pink lip. Her broad sunglasses added a sense of mystery while protecting her eyes from the morning glare

Her hair was styled straight with a curtain bang and she appeared to be wearing natural looking makeup with a soft pink lip.

Emily's broad sunglasses added a sense of mystery while protecting her eyes from the morning glare.

In a rare admission from someone as young as she is, the Inamorata Woman founder has admitted to getting some help to keep her appearance youthful.

'I get Botox,' she told Glamour UK.

'My face still moves, which I am quite proud of, but Im not scared to use whats out there.'

The fashionista, who became a single mom to son Sylvester, almost three, after splitting from her ex-husband Sebastian Bear-McClard, 36, in 2022, told the outlet In the past two years, how I feel is I just care a whole lot less what people think.'

'So, if I am in a certain type of mood where I want to post something or wear something that I could be judged for because its, quote-unquote desperate, Im a little bit like, "Well, thats where Im at,"' she explained.

'Ive learned to prioritize my own happiness, probably because of my son,' she contended.

The cover model showcased her tiny waist in a belted brown puffy jacket. She appeared to be wearing a black turtleneck sweater beneath the covering and a pair of black straight leg athleisure pants

Over the weekend, the bikini designer shared this eye-popping image

And the siren was also seen in this strappy black suit from Inamorata which launched in 2017

'I feel I have bigger fish to fry than caring about the politics of whether or not Im appealing to the male gaze in a given moment.'

Emily has put her popular High Low with Emrata podcast on hiatus.

Instead of podcasting, the My Body author is turning her attention to a new book, but told the publication she was superstitious about talking more about it.

'Id like to be writing scripts; Id like to be writing fiction,' she said about future literary pursuits.
Fast & Furious star Tyrese responded to Kanye West's risque Instagram post of his wife Bianca Censori, which showed her cooking in a face mask and skimpy swimsuit.

On Sunday, the actor, 45, seemingly took a swipe at the 46-year-old rapper's post, captioned 'cream of wheat' that sparked outrage amongst his 18.6 million Instagram followers.

'Dear Kanye...All wheat, hold the cream,' the Sweet Lady hitmaker wrote over a video of his bikini-clad girlfriend Zelie Timothy frolicking on the beach.

In the footage, Timothy can be seen sporting a tiny nude two-piece as she went for a dip in the ocean and signaled for her man to join her in the water.

Fast & Furious star Tyrese responded to Kanye West's risque Instagram post of his wife Bianca Censori, which showed her cooking in a face mask and skimpy swimsuit (seen in March 2023)

Tyrese made it clear that his post was intended to be light-hearted as he captioned the recording: 'All love. Just loving on my caramel chocolate.'

Over the weekend, West uploaded a series of scandalous pictures of his wife posing almost naked.

In one of the photos uploaded by the controversial rapper, Bianca stood facing the kitchen counter preparing food whilst wearing the barely-there garment, black knee-high boots and a bizarre leather mask.

Ye captioned the shocking picture 'cream of wheat,' suggesting that his spouse was cooking up some porridge in her strange outfit.

The post sparked backlash from the public - who commented their frustrations with the rapper's portrayal of his wife, especially considering his young daughters.

'I'm sure he'll be real proud when a man is doing this with North or Chicago! This guy changes his point of view on life and morals more than he changes his draws,' one comment said.

'For some reason I always feel sorry for her when I see her in photos,' a user said.

'If sad was a pic,' another commented.

On Sunday, the actor, 45, seemingly took a swipe at the 46-year-old rapper's post, captioned 'cream of wheat' that sparked outrage amongst his 18.6 million Instagram followers

'Dear Kanye...All wheat, hold the cream,' the Sweet Lady hitmaker wrote over a video of his bikini-clad girlfriend Zelie Timothy frolicking on the beach

'Sickening. No respect for your wife,' said another.

The former-husband of American media star Kim Kardashian uploaded another snap of his much younger wife facing a wall in an empty hallway wearing the same provocative outfit with no caption.

Ye's risque Instagram posts prove the rapper to be a hypocrite, given his history of shaming Kim for her revealing clothes, despite none of her fashion choices being as explicit as Bianca's consistently revealing outfits.

Over the weekend, West uploaded a series of scandalous pictures of his wife posing almost naked

In one of the photos uploaded by the controversial rapper, Bianca stood facing the kitchen counter preparing food whilst wearing the barely-there garment, black knee-high boots and a bizarre leather mask

When Kim wore a custom corset-style minidress made of silk organza and dripping crystals by French designer Thierry Mugler at the 2019 Met Gala, Ye openly slammed the reality TV icon's ensemble.

'I didn't realize that that was affecting my soul and my spirit as someone that's married and loved, the father of what's about to be four kids,' Ye said about Kim's outfit choice.

'A corset is a form of underwear. It's hot. It's like, it's hot for who, though?'

'You are my wife, and it affects me when pictures are too sexy,' West told his wife.

The post sparked backlash from the public - who commented their frustrations with the rapper's portrayal of his wife, especially considering his young daughters (seen in May 2023)

Ye's risque Instagram posts prove the rapper to be a hypocrite, given his history of shaming his ex Kim Kardashian for her revealing clothes, despite none of her fashion choices being as explicit as Bianca's consistently revealing outfits

West's criticism came amidst his gospel phase, during which the rapper hosted Sunday Services to worship Jesus Christ and God.

In a clip from Kanye West's 2022 interview with Tucker Carlson on Fox News, the rapper blasted Kim again in what many people have described as 'slut-shaming' attempts.

'Now Kim is a Christian, but she has people who want her to go to Interview magazine and put her a** out while she's a 40-something-year-old multibillionaire with four Black children.'

This was a change of tune from the way he previously spoke about Kim's body. In 2013, West said 'I love her nude selfies. Like, I love the ones from the side, the back ones and the front. I just love seeing her naked; I love nudity. I think it's important for Kim to have her figure.'

'To not show it would be like Adele not singing,' the rapper stated.
Chloe Ferry showcased her jaw-dropping figure at the weekend as she took a turn at sitting in an ice bath.

The Geordie Shore star, 28, displayed her surgically enhanced assets in a blue bikini as she braced herself to get into a tub filled with freezing cold water.

She shared a video of the attempt to her Instagram, filming herself climbing in while wincing in pain and sending up a prayer sign.

Her ample cleavage was on full display in the tiny two-piece, which also showed off her flat tummy and collection of tattoos.

Chloe attempted to submerge her body while breathing in and out to remain calm, but soon found the cold too much.

Chloe Ferry showcased her jaw-dropping figure at the weekend as she took a turn at sitting in an ice bath

The Geordie Shore star, 28, displayed her surgically enhanced assets in a blue bikini as she braced herself to get into a tub filled with freezing cold water

She shared a video of the attempt to her Instagram, filming herself climbing in while wincing in pain and sending up a prayer sign

She hurriedly jumped out of the tub and began shaking her legs to build back circulation.

Captioning the clip, the reality star admitted she was disappointed she hadn't managed longer, but vowed she would keep trying.

Chloe penned: 'Tried the ice bath today my goal was a minute but I just couldnt do it.

'I felt like I failed, but then I remembered least Im trying I feel like sometimes I put too much pressure on myself when I need to remember least Im trying and Ill come back tomorrow and try again!'

Ice baths have been popular among athletes and celebrities for years, with stars like Lady Gaga, Kylie Jenner and Nicole Scherzinger trying them out.

The practice is thought to reduce inflammation and heal injured tissues, particularly after intense exercise.

It's also been claimed that cold exposure can improve blood flow and help with depression, anxiety and energy levels.

However, experts recommend limiting your time in an ice bath to just 10 to 15 minutes to avoid hypothermia, or a dangerous drop in body temperature that can cause frostbite if left untreated.

Her ample cleavage was on full display in the tiny two-piece, which also showed off her flat tummy and collection of tattoos

Chloe attempted to submerge her body while breathing in and out to remain calm, but soon found the cold too much

She hurriedly jumped out of the tub and began shaking her legs to build back circulation

Captioning the clip, the reality star admitted she was disappointed she hadn't managed longer, but vowed she would keep trying

It comes after Chloe revealed that her 1.1 million Newcastle mansion is constantly targeted by burglars, and at one point they were coming twice a week.

She said she was forced to bump up security when she recorded footage of thieves' attempts to break in on multiple occasions.

Speaking exclusively to The Sun about her scary ordeal, Chloe said: 'Someone tries to rob my house all the time. Last month has been the longest month when no one has tried to rob it.

'Ive got gates on my property, because its been that bad, because theyre climbing over my gates, weve put spikes on the gates but since Ive put spikes on they havent been back.'

She continued: 'It was really bad at one point when they were coming twice a week. But Ive got gates luckily, but they started jumping over the gates but luckily touch wood they havent come back.'

Chloe's revelation also comes after Joey Essex moved to Dubai following a burglary on his bachelor pad.

In March 2023, former The Only Way Is Essex star announced the move after the break in left him an emotional wreck.

Thieves descended upon his 3 million mega mansion and the star was left so shaken that he decided to leave the property, which is he put up for rent.
Alessandra Ambrosio has one of the best figures in the known universe.

She put her flawless body on display in a series of snaps shared to Instagram featuring her in a tiny black bikini on an idyllic deck overlooking the ocean.

In one snap, the Brazilian model, 42, is standing and drinking a beverage with her backside on display in the cheeky bottoms of the bathing suit.

She has her long brown hair in a ponytail.

A separate image shows her lying on her back with one arm extended above her head while sunglasses lay by her side.

Alessandra Ambrosio has one of the best figures in the known universe; she showed her form off in new images shared to Instagram on Monday

In another photo, the mom of two lays on her stomach on a blue and white striped sun bed reading a book.

A drink and a colorful plate of fruit sits on the wooden deck near her side.

She captioned the series of photos: 'Donde no puedas amar, no te demores,' which translates to: 'Where you cannot love, do not delay.'

The post comes after Alessandra opened up about her art collection ahead of her appearance at the annual art fair Art Basel in Miami.

'My collection mainly consists of black-and-white photos. Some are by photographers such as Herb Ritts, Helmut Newton, Patrick Demarchelier and Ellen von Unwerth,' she explained to Ocean Drive magazine.

'I also treasure my guitar, which was painted by the Gemeos brothers. They are the most amazing Brazilian street artists that I genuinely adore. Each piece holds a special place in my heart!'

Alessandra went on to say she also appreciates artists Damien Hirst, Mr. Brainwash and Andy Warhol, saying that she has 'pieces from them that are remarkable.

'Their ability to perfectly capture a moment or emotion is just so special,' she added.

In one snap, the Brazilian model, 42, is standing and drinking a beverage with her backside on display in the cheeky bottoms of the bathing suit

In another photo, the mom of two lays on her stomach on a blue and white striped sun bed reading a book

A drink and a colorful plate of fruit sits on the wooden deck near her side

She put her flawless body on display in a series of snaps on Instagram featuring her in a tiny black bikini on an idyllic deck overlooking the ocean

The model spent 13 years as a Victoria's Secret Angel and earned recognition as one of the highest-paid models globally.

'Over the years, the industry has seen evolution, but theres more work ahead,' she said of the fashion world.

'I feel it needs to be more inclusive and representative of the amazing, diverse beauty we see in real life.'

She also revealed what is most important to her in life these days. 'Three things I cant live without are love, family and my friends.'
Kim Kardashian has been named as controversial fashion label Balenciaga's new brand ambassador - one year after the brand sparked outrage with an ad showing kids posing alongside various BDSM-themed items.

The reality star, 43, who previously refused to cut ties with the brand but said she was 'shaken and disgusted' by the advert, posted a statement announcing her partnership with the label under its creative director Demna Gvasalia.

The statement read: 'For several years now, Balenciagas designs have been a part of my many looks  and some of my most iconic fashion moments.

'This historic fashion house embraces modernity, craftsmanship and takes an innovative approach to design under Demna.

'For me, this long-standing relationship is built on mutual trust and a commitment to doing whats right. Im excited about this next chapter for the brand and to become their ambassador.'

Kim Kardashian has been named as controversial fashion label Balenciaga's new brand ambassador - one year after the brand sparked outrage with an ad showing kids posing alongside various BDSM-themed items

The reality star, 43, who previously refused to cut ties with the brand but said she was 'shaken and disgusted' by the advert, posted a statement announcing her partnership with the label under its creative director Demna Gvasalia

Kardashian has previously starred in Balenciaga campaigns, walked in their show and accompanied Demna to the 2021 Met Gala.

Back in November 2022, the fashion house came under fierce fire after it released an ad that showed kids posing alongside various BDSM-themed items.

Kim initially faced backlash for refusing to cut ties with the brand and praising the way it handled the scandal, despite her claiming to be 'shaken' and 'disgusted' by the images.

Since then, she has made her loyalty clear by participating in an ad for Balenciaga's upcoming Summer 2024 collection.

Clearly embarrassed by their ill-judged campaign, Balenciaga took the drastic step of wiping its social media pages clean.

'I have been quiet for the past few days, not because I haven't been shocked and outraged by the recent Balenciaga campaigns, but because I wanted an opportunity to speak to their team to understand for myself how this could have happened,' the Los Angeles-born celebrity said in a statement on her Instagram page.

She continued: 'As a mother of four, I have been shaken by those disturbing images. The safety of children must be held with the highest regard and anything against it should have no place in our society - period.'

Kardashian has previously starred in Balenciaga campaigns, walked in their show and accompanied Demna to the 2021 Met Gala

Kardashian is often seen wearing Balenciaga to major events and has featured in several of the brand's campaigns in the past such as Paris Fashion Week

Kim initially issued a statement on her Instagram Stories account in November 2022

In an additional post, this time to both Twitter and Instagram, Kardashian said she was reconsidering her relationship with the fashion brand

She subsequently reissued the statement that saw some of the wording changed using stronger language adding: 'any attempts to normalize child abuse of any kind should have no place in our society - period.'

However, on balance, Kardashian said that she is comfortable with how the company reacted to the scandal.

'I appreciate Balenciaga's removal of the campaigns and apology. In speaking with them, I believe they understand the seriousness of the issue and will take the necessary measures for this to never happen again.'

In an additional post, to both Instagram and Twitter, Kardashian said she was reconsidering her relationship with the fashion brand but had not yet many any firm decisions.

'As for my future with Balenciaga, I am currently re-evaluating my relationship with the brand, basing it off their willingness to accept accountability for something that should have never happened to begin with -- & the actions I am expecting to see them take to protect children.'

She was famously introduced to Balenciaga Creative Director Demna by her ex, Kanye West with the couple's daughters also sporting the brand, too, having recently been spotted carrying four-figure bags from the brand.

She acknowledge the role her ex-husband had played in the relationship in December 2021 as she spoke at the People's Choice Awards where she accepted an award for fashion.

Balenciaga, which is popular with A-list celebrities including the likes of Kim Kardashian - has deleted two shocking images showing two young girls holding a teddy bear in bondage style gear on the gift shop section of its website

One of the ad's photos contained an excerpt from the US Supreme Court opinion in United States v. Williams, which upheld part of a federal child pornography law, which Twitter's own fact-checkers confirmed

'To Kanye, for really introducing me to the fashion world,' she said. 'I fell in love with fashion and I'm so inspired by so many people. But again, this is like a dream that I get to wake up and wear these amazing clothes and try new things and take a risk. I'm so humbled.'

At the time, Vogue described it as 'the peak of Kardashians Balenciaga moment.'

Balenciaga is owned by Kering; the corporation also owns Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent and Creed.

On Twitter, users appeared skeptical of Kardashian's statement at the time with many suggesting only a complete the complete cutting of ties from the brand would be appropriate.

'I don't believe that you're being sincere at all. I think you were just hoping that it would blow over. There's no way that they paid for an ad campaign, didn't look it over thoroughly before they put it out there. Seems like it's more about money for you,' wrote one fan.

'You can't be that outraged if you're going to continue to model for them I applaud u for speaking up but the fact that this even happened speaks volumes and so publicly at that. Shame on balenciaga and anyone who still supports them. Things like this don't deserve a second chance,' added another.

'Coming from a fan of you for many years this isn't good enough. Now maybe you couldn't of done anything then but you can now cut ties with balenciaga at least! Ain't no one forgetting this one there's no excuse big enough to cover what everyone saw,' echoed a third.

'No. They were promoting child sexual abuse. How on EARTH can you say they 'understand the severity' and still work with them, especially as a mom?? This shows how sheltered you are. No concept of the impact this has on victims. Disgusting,' responded one user.

On Twitter, users appeared skeptical of Kardashian's statement with many suggesting only a complete the complete cutting of ties from the brand would be appropriate

Balenciaga publicly apologized and announced that it will be swiping off the ad from all of its social media profiles.

'We sincerely apologize for any offense our holiday campaign may have caused. Our plush bear bags should not have been featured with children in this campaign. We have immediately removed the campaign from all platforms,' the high-end luxury house shared on Instagram.
Tommy Fury left his 180,000 Mercedes G Wagon in a loading bay on Monday, just over one week after he was slapped with a 60 parking ticket.

The boxer and TV personality, 24, was spotted getting out of his 4x4 and nipping into a Tesco Express in Hale Village, Cheshire - leaving his car in the bay.

He arrived back from the shops to find he had avoided a fine, after a shopping trip resulted in one earlier in January.

For running his Monday errands, Tommy sported a black pleather padded jacket with black cargo pants and Nike trainers.

It comes after Tommy left a jewellery shop in leafy Wilmslow on January 15 to discover a parking ticket slapped across his car windscreen.

Tommy Fury left his 180,000 Mercedes G Wagon in a loading bay on Monday, just over one week after he was slapped with a 60 parking ticket

The boxer and TV personality, 24, was spotted getting out of his 4x4 and nipping into a Tesco Express in Hale Village, Cheshire - leaving his car in the bay

The professional boxer had parked his gleaming Mercedes G Wagon outside a jewellery store, but an eagle-eyed traffic warden put more than a ring on it while he was away from the 180,000 vehicle.

Tommy looked bemused after spotting the unmistakable yellow ticket-sleeve attached to his windscreen as he made his way back onto the street, where he posed for snaps with waiting fans.

The younger brother of world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury was without influencer fiancee Molly-Mae Hague and their young daughter Bambi during the incident.

The family have only just returned to Manchester following a sunshine break in the Maldives, where they spent new year enjoying endless sunshine and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

Wilmslow high street proved to be memorable for different reasons, with a chastened Fury removing the parking ticket and climbing back behind the wheel before setting off.

Tommy and Molly-Mae, whose relationship has been scrutinised over recent months, let their hair down at the 4,300 a night Ritz-Carlton hotel during their time in the Maldives.

The waterfront pad featured a private pool, with a double bed sun lounger and a king-size bed overlooking the Maldivian sea.

It also boasted a stunning interior, a mini-bar, a huge walk in wardrobe and a stone-washed bathtub.

Tommy arrived back from the shops to find he had avoided a fine, after a shopping trip resulted in one earlier in January

For running his Monday errands, Tommy sported a black pleather padded jacket with black cargo pants and Nike trainers

The holiday came after questions were asked of Fury's extroverted behaviour during a recent trip to Dubai without his family.

Molly-Mae was understood to be 'mortified' by his raucous behaviour and was subsequently spotted with and without her 600,000 engagement ring on multiple occasions.

Tommy returned to Cheshire after jetting to Abu Dhabi for the Grand Prix.

The former Love Island contestant has since shared with fans on her YouTube account that 'things aren't always going to be perfect', while also admitting 'she'll be back soon' on her social media to fans, following the ongoing speculation.

She told followers: 'Guys, I don't really know what to come on here and tell you right now. I know how bad I look. Trust me, however bad I look, I feel 20 times worse.'

She continued: 'I have been going through it in more ways than one.

'I am hoping, in say about a week, I might be in a place mentally, physically emotionally where I can start filming some proper content for you guys again and get back on my channel.

'So please bear with me, I am really desperate to come back to you guys. I love you guys and I will speak to you very soon.'

Molly-Mae is believed to have told her husband-to-be that he needs to change his ways, with a source admitting she 'has made no secret of the fact she doesn't like it when Tommy parties too hard'.

The couple met on the 2019 series of Love Island, where they finished in second place to winners Amber Gill and Greg O'Shea.
Iris Law put on a very racy display as she showed off her nipple clamps within a slew of Instagram snaps that she posted on Monday.

The daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost, 23, slipped into a risque lace dress as she posed for the jaw-dropping photos.

She struck a sultry pose in the sexy snaps while she showcased her daring choice of attire.

The model flaunted her sensational physique in her grey lingerie dress and opted for a prominent dark make-up look, with a bold eyeshadow.

Iris looked happy and relaxed as she showed off her bronzed skin and toned shoulders from a high angle.

Iris Law, 23, put on a very racy display as she showed off her nipple clamps within a slew of Instagram snaps that she posted on Monday

The daughter of Jude Law and Sadie Frost slipped into a risque lace dress to pose for the jaw-dropping photos, showcasing grey chained nipple clamps

Iris and her mother Sadie recently declared themselves 'mother-daughter goals' as they enjoyed some quality time together while travelling.

The iconic actress, 58, and her model daughter spent a whirlwind 24 hours together in Venice before boarding the luxury Simplon Orient Express to Paris.

Sadie looked as youthful as ever in a stunning navy evening gown as she posed in the 'Prague' suite onboard the train - a stay worth tens of thousands of pounds.

The duo looked the spitting image of one another as they posed for a selfie while strolling the canals in Venice, while donning woolly hats to keep warm.

They showed they were getting into the festive spirit at the Gritti Palace hotel, sharing snaps of a large Christmas tree and of a gondola ride.

Posting on Instagram, Sadie said they were 'catching up' for missed birthdays and Christmasses.

In another post documenting their train journey, she used the hashtag 'mother daughter goals', showing they were having some quality bonding time.

She added: 'We get to experience the ultimate mama and daughter trip where forever memories are made - 30 hours aboard Venice- Paris.

The model flaunted her sensational physique in her grey lingerie dress and opted for a prominent dark make-up look, with a bold eyeshadow

She struck a sultry pose in the sexy snaps while she showcased her daring choice of attire

Iris and her mother Sadie recently declared themselves 'mother-daughter goals' as they enjoyed some quality time together while travelling

Sadie looked as youthful as ever in a stunning navy evening gown as she posed in the 'Prague' suite onboard the Orient express train to Paris

The iconic actress, 58, and her model daughter spent a whirlwind 24 hours together in Venice before boarding the luxury Simplon Orient Express to Paris

'Thank you to everyone who made this trip so so special you are all the best..we laughed, we cried, we showered, we dined, we read in our beautiful Prague suite, we journaled- even practised yoga and meditated!!

'30 hours of bliss - the whole journey just went tooo quick - every moment so precious- a forever memory:)

'Big thanks to the chefs- the meals so special for veggies and vegans and experiencing the magic which happens in the piano bar all so dreamy Till the next time.'

Iris commented: 'Love uuuu' and described it as the 'perfect mama-daughter trip'.

Their private luxury train journey was the epitome of luxury, with the suites all restored to 1920s grandeur while opulent carriages offered a trip back in time.

Meanwhile, in Australia, a shirtless Jude Law showed off his ripped physique as he joined his co-stars Ana de Armas and Sydney Sweeney while filming for an upcoming thriller.

Working on Ron Howard's latest movie Eden on Wednesday, the trio were pictured battling the rain as they recorded scenes on a beach in the Gold Coast.

Jude, 50, flashed his bare torso completing his bedraggled look with a pair of cut off shorts and walking boots, while his hair fell in damp curls.

Their private luxury train journey was the epitome of luxury, with the suites all restored to 1920s grandeur while opulent carriages offered a trip back in time

Iris even posed while hanging outside the door of the old-fashioned luxury train

The 'Prague' suite onboard the train - a stay worth tens of thousands of pounds

Sadie said she was excited about 'catching up' after missing birthdays and Christmasses with her daughter

Iris showed off her model qualities as she posed for a mirror selfie onboard

Meanwhile Jude flashed his bare torso completing his bedraggled look with a pair of cut off shorts and walking boots

Jude and Sadie Frost are pictured in the heyday of their romance in 1996

Sadie and Jude led the Primrose Hill Set, a name given to the all-star group of edgy residents of the leafy neighbourhood, who were known in their heyday for their wild ways with stories of their antics becoming the stuff of legend.

In the nineties they would spend their nights partying with the likes of Kate Moss, Davinia Taylor and Gavin Rossdale.

But things were not made to last, with Jude and Sadie getting a divorce in 2003, after six years of marriage.

In her autobiography Crazy Days, Sadie blamed depression that 'weaved a dance of destruction' through her adult life on the breakdown of their marriage.

She met Jude when he was 19 and she was a 25-year-old married mother, and wrote: I knew that by even entertaining thoughts of Jude, I was jeopardising an idyllic home life, the most secure relationship Id ever had.'

She left her first husband, Spandeau Ballet's Gary Kemp in 1995, before buying a house and marrying Jude by 1997.

Jude also has an nine-year-old daughter Sophia with model Samantha Burke and Ada, three, with musician Catherine Harding. He married Phillipa Coan in 2019.

Frost and Jude have three children: Rafferty, 27, Iris and Rudy, 21.
Barry Keoghan opted for a casual fitting as he attended Masters Of The Air premiere at the Picturehouse in London on Monday.

The Saltburn star, 31, who plays Lt. Curtis Biddick in the upcoming war drama, defiantly showed off his stylish attire on the red carpet.

He showed off his ripped and muscular physique in a sleeveless blue knitted jumper, while donning black trousers.

His co-stars Callum Turner and Austin Butler cut dapper displays in smart suits as they joined each other at the premiere.

Callum, 33, plays Major John 'Bucky' Egan in the Apple TV+ series, while Austin, 32, takes the main lead starring as Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven.

Barry Keoghan, 31, opted for a casual fitting as he attended Masters Of The Air premiere at the Picturehouse in London on Monday

His co-stars Callum Turner, 33, and Austin Butler, 32, cut dapper displays in smart suits as they joined each other at the premiere

Austin looked incredibly handsome in a three-piece grey suit as he struck a sultry pose on the carpet.

The Elvis star beamed for the cameras while playfully posing with his thumbs up before he joined the rest of the cast.

Callum opted to wear a black suit for the occasion, teamed with polished leather shoes.

The actor appeared happy and relaxed as he posed on the carpet at the premiere ahead of its anticipated release.

Jude Law's son Raff, 27, who plays Sgt. Ken Lemmons, arrived at the premiere in a smart pinstripe suit.

The nine-episode limited series is set In World War II and focuses on a squad of Air Force members valiantly combating the forces of Nazi Germany.

It focuses on the 100th Bomb Group of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.

The unit was nicknamed the 'Bloody Hundredth' because of the heavy losses it experienced in combat missions.

The trio cheekily posed for the cameras on the carpet at the star-studded premiere

The Saltburn star, who plays Lt. Curtis Biddick in the upcoming war drama, defiantly showed off his stylish attire on the red carpet

He showed off his ripped and muscular physique in the sleeveless blue knitted jumper, while donning black trousers

Austin looked incredibly handsome in a three-piece grey suit as he struck a sultry pose on the carpet

He beamed for the cameras while playfully posing with his thumbs up before he joined the rest of the cast

Callum opted to wear a black suit for the occasion, teamed with polished leather shoes

The actor appeared happy and relaxed as he posed on the carpet at the premiere ahead of its anticipated release

Callum, Barry and Austin (L-R) couldn't wipe the smiles off their faces as they joined each other at the premiere

The dapper duo posed up a storm at the anticipated Masters Of The Air premiere

Jude Law's son Raff, 27, who plays Sgt. Ken Lemmons, arrived at the premiere in a smart pinstripe suit

The series serves follows up Band of Brothers (2001) and The Pacific (2010) and is based on the Donald L. Miller book of the same name and features Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman as executive producers.

The streaming series is an adaptation of Donald L. Millers 2007 nonfiction book Masters Of The Air: Americas Bomber Boys Who Fought the War Against Nazi Germany.

Filming for Masters Of The Air started in 2021 in England, but was delayed several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The series also will feature Ncuti Gatwa, David Shields, Ben Radcliffe, Elliot Warren, Nate Mann, Edward Ashley, Rafferty Law, Darragh Cowley and German actor Louis Hofmann.

Masters Of The Air will have a two-episode premiere on January 26 on the Apple TV+ service.

According to the official synopsis, Masters of Air 'follows the men of the 100th Bomb Group (the Bloody Hundredth) as they conduct perilous bombing raids over Nazi Germany and grapple with the frigid conditions, lack of oxygen and sheer terror of combat conducted at 25,000 feet in the air.

'Portraying the psychological and emotional price paid by these young men as they helped destroy the horror of Hitlers Third Reich is at the heart of Masters of Air.

'Some were shot down and captured; some were wounded or killed. And some were lucky enough to make it home. Regardless of individual fate, a toll was exacted on them all.'

Nate Mann who stars in the nine-part series was in attendance at the premiere

Happy Valley star Adam Long made a dapper arrival in a crisp white shirt and black jacket

Ben Radcliffe looked smart in a black tuxedo, while opting out of a shirt

John Orloff, the creator of Masters Of The Air, looked trendy in a mustard-brown suit

Anthony Boyle slipped into a purple shirt, under a black suit

The nine-episode limited series is set In World War II and focuses on a squad of Air Force members valiantly combating the forces of Nazi Germany (cast pictured)

Fans recently went wild for heartthrobs Callum, Austin and Barry at the Hollywood premiere of the series.

The world premiere saw the all-star cast hit the red carpet alongside the equally a-list executive producer Tom Hanks.

'I feel like weve been in the Sahara and we suddenly got hit with a tsunami. Theyre so handsome itself truly insane,' one superfan gushed on X.

'Get you someone who looks at you the way Austin Butler looks at Callum Turner and Barry Keoghan,' agreed another.

'austin butler, callum turner, and barry keoghan look so good tonight omfg,' tweeted another, as one other posted: 'barry living my dream of being in the middle of austin butler and callum turner.'

'Callum Turner, Barry Keoghan and Austin Butler at #MastersOfTheAir premiere name a better trio, you can't.'
Chris Pine was once again an attention magnet as he stepped out on Friday.

The actor, 43, sported another zany, meme-able look as he returned to his car following a morning dance class in Los Angeles.

The Don't Worry Darling star - who routinely serves head-turning looks - sported a zany pair of mosaic print trousers teamed with a quirky cardigan.

He threw on a a slouchy knit beanie, adding a hipster element to his arty look.

Feet slipped into huarache sandals, the actor returned to his car with a water bottle tucked into his arm and his cell phone in hand.

Chris Pine was an attention magnet yet again as he stepped out in Los Angeles on Friday

The actor has become well-known for his risk-taking sense of style, and he received much attention after pictures of him wearing a very short pair of shorts were circulated this past October.

Pine subsequently spoke about his choice of clothing during an interview with E! News and stated that he was perfectly happy with the length of his shorts.

'I don't think there is anything to defend. It's called short shorts, isn't it? It's supposed to be short,' he stated.

The actor went on to speak about his fashion inspirations and stated that his shorts were part of his 'vibe.'

He continued: 'It's the best vibe. It's like a Tom Selleck vibe. It's like a '70s surfer vibe. I prefer that.'

Pine concluded by stating that he would be wearing his short shorts 'until the legs go.'

Pine - who was named one of GQs most stylish men in 2022 - previously described his sense of style as 'jiggy' during an interview with People.

Those jiggy-fied outfits include the one he wore on a recent trip to a gym, where he took Twitter by storm after serving up a scoop-neck PBS tank top, figure-hugging leggings (once again) and slip-on huarache sandals.

There was no missing the star in his mosaic print trousers and quirky cardigan

Feet slipped into huarache sandals, the actor returned to his car with a water bottle tucked into his arm and his cell phone in hand

The kicker was Chris' rainbow-sherbet-striped cashmere smoking jacket, which truly sparked the social media firestorm, as one follower called out the hunk as a 'Los feliz mom driving her prius to drop off her kids at nondenominational quaker high school'.

Chris is no stranger to a good ribbing online, as he was the talk of the Twitter town during most of the promotional tour for Don't Worry Darling, including the famous 'Spitgate' with Harry Styles.

At a press conference for the film, Chris - rocking long hair, a navy blazer and headphones - had a somewhat disinterested gaze and was even caught staring at the ceiling at one point.

He previously took Twitter by storm after serving up a scoop-neck PBS tank top, figure-hugging leggings (once again) and slip-on huarache sandals

Chris is no stranger to a good ribbing online, as he was the talk of the Twitter town during most of the promotional tour for Don't Worry Darling

One Twitter user posted the photo with the caption, 'nine year old me on a road trip staring out the window while evanescence blasts in my CD player', as another shared, 'me filling the room with negative energy bc i dont wanna be there'.

The Dungeons & Dragons star hilariously clapped back during an Esquire interview, saying, 'It should be known, that the press conferences in Venice are in one of the most gorgeous buildings I've ever seen. The ceilings are like blue and gold.

'So there's one of these [memes] where I'm looking up and really what I'm thinking is, "How can I do that to my ceiling?" That was going through my head'.

In the same interview, Chris defended his esoteric fashion sense, calling it 'f****** awesome"' and 'ridiculously cool.'

He added that it's been compared to Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band and the Bee Gees.
Netflix has released the first trailer for upcoming series Ripley, based on the iconic 1955 novel The Talented Mr Ripley by Patricia Highsmith.

Fleabag actor Andrew Scott, 47, takes on the role of infamous fraudster Tom, having been played previously on the big screen by both Matt Damon and John Malkovich.

The stylish new black and white teaser shows the mysterious character's dodgy dealings including forging passports and stealing luggage.

Set in the 1960s, Ripley is hired by a wealthy New Yorker to travel to Italy to convince his wayward son Dickie (played by Johnny Flynn) to return home.

Tom lies his way into the lavish world of the elite before resorting to deceit and murder in a desperate attempt to keep his place at the table.

Netflix has released the first trailer for upcoming series Ripley, based on the iconic 1955 novel The Talented Mr Ripley by Patricia Highsmith

Fleabag actor Andrew Scott, 47, takes on the role of infamous fraudster Tom, having been played previously on the big screen by both Matt Damon and John Malkovich

The stylish new black and white teaser shows the mysterious character's dodgy dealings including forging passports and stealing luggage

John Malkovich returns to the world of Tom Ripley in a wildly different role and can be seen questioning the conman in a tense scene.

The star-studded cast also includes Dakota Fanning who protrays Marge Sherwood, an American living in Italy who starts to suspect Tom's motives.

The official synopsis reads: 'Scotts Tom Ripley is a grifter scraping by in early 60s New York. Hes hired by a wealthy industrialist to travel to Italy to try to convince the mans dilettante son, Dickie Greenleaf (Johnny Flynn), to return home'.

'Accepting the job is Toms first step into a complex life of deceit, fraud, and murder'.

Adapted by The Night Of's Steve Zaillan the much anticipated eight episode series will stream on Netflix April 4.

In the 1999 movie The Talented Mr. Ripley, directed by the late Anthony Minghella, starred Matt Damon as Tom Ripley with Gwyneth Paltrow as Marge and Jude Law as Dickie.

Meanwhile John played Andrew's character Tom Ripley in the 2002 film Ripley's Game, adapted from Highsmith's third novel of the same name.

It comes after Andrew and co-star Paul Mescal admitted they weren't too keen on their family members watching their new film All Of Us Strangers.

Set in the 1960s, Ripley is hired by a wealthy New Yorker to travel to Italy to convince his wayward son Dickie (played by Johnny Flynn) to return home

Tom lies his way into the lavish world of the elite before resorting to deceit and murder in a desperate attempt to keep his place at the table.

In the 1999 movie The Talented Mr. Ripley, directed by the late Anthony Minghella, starred Matt Damon (pictured) as Tom Ripley with Gwyneth Paltrow as Marge and Jude Law as Dickie

John Malkovich played Andrew's character Tom Ripley in the 2002 film Ripley's Game, adapted from Patricia Highsmith's third novel of the same name

The movie stars Andrew as a screenwriter drawn back to his childhood home who enters into a relationship with a mysterious neighbour, played by Paul, 27.

The film features several intimate scenes between the actors which the pair discussed during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show.

Asked if their families had seen the flick yet, Paul said: 'With the Irish premiere, trying to allocate tickets to all the aunties and uncles is a tricky business. They have seen my bum before but there is a little more going on in this movie I would say!'

Andrew added: 'I don't want to be there when my parents watch it!'

All Of Us Strangers dominated the competition at the British Independent Film Awards, earning a staggering seven gongs in total.

It comes after Andrew (L) and co-star Paul Mescal (R) have admitted they weren't too keen on their family members watching their new film All Of Us Strangers (pictured in the movie)

Among the awards was the top prize for Best Film, beating Femme, How To Have Sex, Rye Lane and Scrapper.

All Of Us Strangers also scored Best Director and Best Screenplay for Andrew Haigh, who is known for his work on films Weekend and 45 Years.

Paul shared the Best Supporting Performance gong for his role in the film with Shaun Thomas from How To Have Sex.

Ripley streams on Netflix April 4
Ariana Grande and her boyfriend Ethan Slater were spotted holding hands as they touched down into New York City together on Sunday.

In photos obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com, the couple wore coordinating black outfits as they strode through JFK Airport together, accompanied by Ariana's loyal dog Toulouse.

Ariana, 30, had her hands full with Toulouse's pink leash and a sleek tote slung over her shoulder while her boyfriend, 31, carried a pink shopping bag.

She finished off the look with a hat advertising the film she met Ethan on, Wicked.

The songstress - who recently announced her upcoming album Eternal Sunshine - kept the rest of her look casual and effortless, throwing on a grey crewneck, joggers, and fur-accented footwear.

Ariana Grande and her boyfriend Ethan Slater were spotted holding hands as they touched down into New York City together on Sunday

Her boyfriend wore a very similar look - the Broadway star donned a white T-shirt, joggers, and Nike trainers. His belongings were contained inside a rugged brown bag thrown over his back.

The couple appeared to still be holding hands as they took the escalator.

They then waited outside the airport, where Ariana was greeted with a bouquet of sunflowers and purple florals.

The outing comes a day before Ariana's latest track, Yes, And?, landed at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts.

The new track was released January 12 and appears to take aim at the hate she received over her romance with Ethan.

Repeatedly asking, 'Yes, and?' she urges listeners to reflect on why they feel compelled to comment on her life.

'Your business is yours, and mine is mine,' the pop princess also croons, before adding, 'Why do you care so much whose d*** I ride?'

In another line she sings, 'Now im so done with caring what you think, no I wont hide underneath your own projections or change my most authentic life.'

The lovebirds were accompanied by Ariana's dog Toulouse

They then waited outside the airport, where Ariana was greeted with a bouquet of sunflowers and purple florals

Ariana oversaw leash duties as Toulouse led the way

The couple appeared to still be holding hands as they rode the escalator

They were also matching in coordinating black outfits

She held the bouquet close

Grande had a stylish tote slung over her shoulder

Slater had his belongings contained inside a rustic brown bag

Ariana and Ethan met in December 2022 on the UK set of the film adaptation of the smash-hit Broadway musical Wicked, in which Ariana plays Glinda - the good witch - alongside Ethan as munchkin Boq.

In the 80s'-inspired ditty Yes, And?, Ariana also appears to clap back at fan 'concerns' about her changing appearance, which she also addressed in an April TikTok.

'My face is sitting I dont need no disguise,' she sings in Yes, And?. 'Dont comment on my body, do not reply.'

Yes, And? serves as the lead track for Ariana's anticipated seventh studio album, which she started hinting at in late December.

The pop icon dropped her last studio album, positions, in 2020.

However, she's lent her vocals to other songs since 2021, including The Weeknds Save Your Tears and Die For You.

Meanwhile, Ariana and Ethan's Wicked is expected to hit theaters in November 2024.

The outing comes a day before Ariana's latest track, Yes, And?, landed at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts

The new track was released January 12 and appears to take aim at the hate she received over her romance with Ethan
Margot Robbie's iconic Barbie inspired looks will be highlighted in a new book.

The 33-year-old Australian star's stylist Andrew Mukamal has put together a book titled Barbie: The World Tour which focuses on all the work the duo did to recreate iconic looks from the doll and the fashion world as a whole.

Margot - who could soon be the richest actress in Hollywood - is featured on the cover as she poses similarly to what the doll looks like in the packaging with her accessories laying right next to her.

The look was inspired by a classic Chanel runway look which Claudia Schiffer rocked in the 1995 but was never released to the public.

Of the project, the talented fashion stylist and brand consultant Andrew commented in a press release: 'This book is the culmination of tens of thousands of hours of work by some of the most talented and creative visionaries and designers on Earth.'

Margot Robbie 's iconic Barbie inspired looks will be highlighted in a new book put together by her stylist Andrew Mukamal titled Barbie: The World Tour

The look was inspired by a classic Chanel runway look which Claudia Schiffer rocked in the 1995 but was never released to the public

Margot has made quite a habit of having iconic Barbie looks recreated for the dozens of events she has attended including earlier this month when she attended the Golden Globes as she recreated the 1977 SuperStar Barbie doll

The illustrated book aims to capture all the glitz and glamour surrounding Margot channeling the most famous doll in the world.

The press release read: 'For the press tour following the record-breaking release of Greta Gerwigs award-winning, acclaimed Barbie movie, producer and star Margot Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal immersed themselves in some of Barbies most iconic outfits and curated vintage pieces, then approached designers, from Giorgio Armani to Donatella Versace, to create looks inspired by the doll-size originals.

Though Margot has already rocked several Barbie inspired looks at red carpets, press events, awards shows, and other galas, the book promises fans that there are some looks which have still yet to be seen.

It reads: 'Many of these looks were not seen as the official Barbie press tour was cut shortso Margot and Andrew worked with renowned fashion photographer Craig McDean to shoot her in the looks exactly as they were curated: Schiaparelli in Los Angeles, Vivienne Westwood in London, vintage Chanel with matching Streamline luggage at the airport, and beyond.'

The book features images from renowned fashion photographer Craig McDean and also includes a collage from art director Fabien Baron.

Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of Mattel Lisa McKnight commented on the project saying: 'Barbie: The World Tour is the ultimate realization of Barbiecore, with iconic looks inspired by Barbies 65-years of fashion history, now brought to life by Margot and Andrew with best-in-class designers.

'Its been inspiring to see the world follow the designs curated by Margot and Andrew in celebration of the movie, Barbie. Rich with unexpected playfulness, historic nods, and self-expression, these looks represent an exciting new take on Barbie style.'

Margot has made quite a habit of having iconic Barbie looks recreated for the dozens of events she has attended.

Of the project, the talented fashion stylist and brand consultant Andrew commented in a press release: 'This book is the culmination of tens of thousands of hours of work by some of the most talented and creative visionaries and designers on Earth.'

In November she delighted fans at The Gotham Awards in New York as she recreated Black Magic Barbie (1964) in a black, Prada dress

Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of Mattel Lisa McKnight commented on the project saying: 'Barbie: The World Tour is the ultimate realization of Barbiecore, with iconic looks inspired by Barbies 65-years of fashion history, now brought to life by Margot and Andrew with best-in-class designers'

Back in June, the Oscar-nominated actress wore a modern Barbie look with a pink and white polka dot Valentino minidress at an event in Beverly Hills. The outfit was inspired by the 2015 Pink & Fabulous doll

Margot opted for a black-and-white outfit during a trip in Australia. It was reminiscent of the swimsuit worn by Barbie in 1959

In fact earlier this month she attended the Golden Globes as she recreated the 1977 SuperStar Barbie doll.

The Australian beauty donned a plunging sequin hot pink Giorgio Armani dress from the brand's Fall/Winter 2022 collection.

The floor-length gown featured a plunging v-neckline and the actress paired the ensemble with a matching tulle boa wrap.

Back in June, the Oscar-nominated actress wore a modern Barbie look with a pink and white polka dot Valentino minidress at an event in Beverly Hills.

The front part of the halterneck dress was cut out and she completed her look with classic, white Manolo Blahnik heels. It was inspired by the 2015 Pink & Fabulous Barbie doll.

On the red carpet at the Barbie premiere in Seoul, South Korea, on July 3 the actress wore a crystal-embellished ensemble by Versace. Her outfit featured a figure-hugging bodice and frilled skirt. The look was inspired by the 1985 Day to Night edition of Barbie

The classic 1985 Day to Night Barbie swaps from an office look to her night outfit, and Margot also wore the smart look at the premiere

The Oscar-nominated actress appeared to sport a more preppy ensemble when at a fan event in Sydney as she wore a pink metallic skirt and a knitted jumper

Margot attended the Barbie Celebration Party at the Museum of Contemporary Art on June 30, 2023 in Sydney, Australia, in a dress inspired by another Barbie look. She looked stunning in the glittering pink Versace dress

Next later that month, Margot wore a black-and-white outfit during a trip to Australia, reminiscent of the swimsuit worn by Barbie in 1959.

Then on the red carpet at the Barbie premiere in Seoul, South Korea, on July 3, 2023 the actress wore a crystal-embellished ensemble by Versace.

Her outfit featured a figure-hugging bodice and frilled skirt, and she completed her look with darker pink crystal Versace handbag and glittering ruby ring.

The look was inspired by the 1985 Day to Night edition of Barbie, and at the premiere Margot also changed outfits into a pink blazer and classy hat.

Obviously Margot's constant promotion of the film worked as it earned $1.4billion globally en route to being the highest-grossing movie of 2023.

Barbie: The World Tour - which is published by Rizzoli New York in partnership with Mattel - is set for release on March 8.
Hannah Waddingham looked nothing short of sensational as she attended the Tony Ward Haute Couture show during Paris Fashion Week on Monday.

The Ted Lasso star, 49, put on a very leggy display in a chic black mini dress which boasted a plunging neckline and lace embroidery.

Hannah completed the look with a stylish oversized blazer, which was adorned with sparkling beads, worn casually over her shoulders.

She slipped her toned pins into a pair of black tights and added extra height to her svelte frame with towering platforms.

Hannah oozed confidence on the red carpet as she posed up a storm before taking her seat in the front row.

Hannah Waddingham, 49, looked nothing short of sensational as she attended the Tony Ward Haute Couture show during Paris Fashion Week on Monday

The actress put on a very leggy display in a chic black mini dress which boasted a plunging neckline and lace embroidery

The appearance comes after Hannah revealed she has trouble finding a guy because she's 'so picky' and a lot of them are grumpy old men.

The actress said she's not too bothered about how sexy a prospective partner is, adding that she just wants someone positive, and who is willing to eat Marmite on toast in bed with her.

Hannah has an eight-year-old daughter Kitty, who she shares with Italian hotelier Gianluca Cugnetto.

Their last red carpet appearance was at The Olivier Awards in London in April 2022, and while Hannah has never spoken out about the break up, in 2023 she referred to herself as a single mother in an interview.

Asked by Michelle Visage on the Rule Breakers podcast if she had time for men, Hannah initially joked 'no', before adding: 'I mean I think we all have time if you make time.

'But I'm a pretty picky girl really and have such a very specific kind of criteria of things.

'One of the main things with guys, just come on man, positivity - positivity and charisma and I'm your gal.

'But there's an awful lot of misogs (miserable old gits) out there. I don't need it.'

Hannah completed the look with a stylish oversized blazer, which was adorned with sparkling beads, worn casually over her shoulders

She slipped her toned pins into a pair of black tights and added extra height to her svelte frame with towering platforms

Hannah oozed confidence on the red carpet as she posed up a storm before taking her seat in the front row

She added: 'I don't go much on stereotypical cutey pie, whatever, sexy, whatever.

'I want a guy that scoops me up and goes 'I've got you, I don't care if you've got your make-up on or not, I'm happy to lie in bed with you and have Marmite on toast and a glass of milk.

'And just be a lovely positive, charismatic soul.'

While Hannah keeps her personal life incredibly private, her most significant recent relationship was with the father of her child, Gianluca.

The pair are thought to have started dating in 2012 after the actress met the Italian hotelier through a mutual friend.

They started dating officially shortly after and welcomed Kitty in 2016 after years of fertility issues.

Their last red carpet appearance was at The Olivier Awards in London in April 2022, and while Hannah has never spoken out about the break up, in 2023 she referred to herself as a single mother in an interview with People .

'My primary function is being a single mama,' the star said.
Home Alone star Devin Ratray has reportedly been 'hospitalized' amid his domestic violence trial.

A family member revealed to TMZ that the actor, best known for his role as Kevin McCallister's evil older brother in the 1990 holiday film starring Macaulay Culkin, was 'in critical condition.'

The New York native, 47, has since been discharged from the hospital and is 'back home resting on doctor's orders.'

The jury selection process was initially set to begin on Monday in an Oklahoma courtroom, but has been pushed back to next month.

Home Alone star Devin Ratray has reportedly been 'hospitalized' amid his domestic violence trial (pictured in 2018)

In December 2021, he was arrested on domestic violence charges after he allegedly strangled his girlfriend in an Oklahoma hotel room.

He reportedly had gotten angry with his girlfriend while the pair had been drinking at a bar after she didn't charge two female fans for his autograph.

The fight then continued into the hotel bedroom where he allegedly got violent and tried to strangle her.

After they returned to their hotel room at Hyatt Place Oklahoma City, Ratray allegedly pushed her onto the bed before putting one hand on her throat and the other on her mouth.

'The victim had trouble breathing while she was being strangled and while the defendants hand was over her mouth,' according to an affidavit.

Ratray also allegedly told her: 'This is how you die' as he continued to choke her.

His girlfriend then bit Ratray's hand as she attempted to scream for help.

He then stopped choking her but allegedly began violently punching her afterward.

A family member revealed to TMZ that the actor, best known for his role as Kevin McCallister's evil older brother in the 1990 holiday film starring Macaulay Culkin , was 'in critical condition' (pictured in Home Alone)

She then managed to break free from Ratray's grasp and ran out of the room.

Ratray also allegedly punched her against a desk when she had returned to the room to collect her belongings.

The victim was found with multiple injuries including bruising under her left eye, marks under her right eye, marks above the left side of her lip, a bruise on her chest and a sore arm, according to KFOR.

The pair broke up following the violent fight.

At the time, a police source revealed that Ratray 'turned himself in and was processed through and bonded out,' according to Fox News.

He has since been released from custody after posting a $25,000 bond and denies the allegations.

He has has since been discharged from the hospital (pictured in 2019)

Last year, news broke that he was also being investigated by New York authorities over allegations that he raped a woman in New York in 2017.

After hearing about the assault case, Lisa Smith contacted prosecutors about a police report she had filed in 2017 accusing that actor of raping her.

She told CNN that she wanted to know why the case hadnt been pursued and was informed that authorities thought she wanted to remain anonymous and didnt want to press charges.

Smith claims that she was friends with the actor for around 15 years before the alleged assault, adding that she met her brother and Ratray along with another friend for a drink in New York directly before the assault.

The group then went to Ratarys apartment for another drink, where he insisted that Smith have a specific glass.

She says that she became exhausted soon after drinking it, and Ratray encouraged her to stay over and sleep on the couch.

Smith believes that she was drugged by the star, saying: I remember waking up and I couldnt move.

I couldnt really open my eyes, but I could hear what was happening and I could feel what was happening.

I knew that the other two people were gone and I was still on the couch.

In December 2021, he was arrested on domestic violence charges after he allegedly strangled his girlfriend in an Oklahoma hotel room

She claims that the assault went on for what felt like an eternity and she was only able to regain control of her body at around 2pm the next day when she fled the apartment.

The day after the attack Smith told a friend, her sister and one of her brothers what happened, and then confronted Ratray in a text message.

He denied the assault, so Smith field a police report a few weeks later and met up with an NYPD detective in Salt Lake City  who wrongly marked that she did not want to prosecute.

Smith added that she is devastated that police failed to investigate her allegations when she came forward.

At the time of the incident she travelled from out of state to be interviewed at the Manhattan District Attorney's office and provided them with the clothes she wore the night of the attack.

She added: Why would I have met with the DA in the first place, years ago, if I wasnt willing to press charges?This was all very upsetting to me.'

'Seeing that he was accused of assaulting someone else made me realize that I needed to do whatever I could to prevent him from hurting even more women.'

Smith claims that she met with a prosecutor from the Sex Crimes Unit at the Manhattan District Attorneys Office in May, who apologized for the way the case had been handled.

When contacted by CNN Ratray said he recalled the evening with Smith, but denied her claims that he raped her.
Rebecca Judd has called for Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to 'fix the system' following the alleged murder of Dr Ashley Gordon by two teenagers this week.

The AFL WAG, 40, said it was sad to see how broken the justice system had become, and implored Ms Allan, 50, to lock offenders up.

The model and socialite said it was the premier's job to 'keep the community safe'.

'This story is so sad. The justice system is broken. Fix this Jacinta Allan. Let this be your legacy,' she wrote alongside a report of Dr Gordon's death.

'Until the "prevention first" strategy starts to work among teens (might take years. Might never work!), you must keep the community safe by locking up violent offenders.'

Rebecca Judd has called for Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan to 'fix the system' following the alleged murder of Dr Ashley Gordon by two teenagers this week

It comes after a shocking revelation that one of the teens accused of murdering Dr Gordon was out on bail at the time of the incident.

The 16-year-old was facing serious criminal charges when he and another teen were accused of breaking into the doctor's home and murdering him, reported the Herald-Sun.

Dr Gordon, 33, was found with a fatal stab wound in his car less than a kilometre from his home in Doncaster, in Melbourne's northeast, late on January 13.

Two boys, both aged 16, were arrested and interviewed by homicide detectives on Wednesday.

The pair from Dandenong and Travancore were both charged with murder, aggravated burglary and theft, and will appear at a children's court at a later date.

The AFL WAG said it was 'sad' to see how 'broken' the justice system had become, and implored Ms Allan, 50, (pictured) to lockoffenders up

The model and socialite said it was the premier's job to 'keep the community safe'

On Thursday, Dr Gordon's sister Natalie opened up about the tragedy and the toll it's taking on her mother and father.

'That's the hardest part for me,' she told 7News. 'We all held him on the biggest pedestal, and it's gone. It's just gone.'

Dr Gordon's family thanked detectives for their tireless work in the arrest of the two teenagers, but Natalie said the government was not doing enough to combat youth crime.

'More needs to be done to try and fix it. The system is broken and the government needs to change that,' Ms Gordon told the Herald Sun.

'We just have so much of this on the streets these days and the world we're growing up in is disgusting. I'm scared for my children because I want them to grow up and experience a safe community.'

Dr Gordon, 33, (pictured) was found with a fatal stab wound in his car less than a kilometre from his home in Doncaster, in Melbourne's northeast, late on January 13

Box Hill MP Nicole Werner also told the publication that she had spoken to the surviving victim allegedly attacked by the teen on bail at the time of Mr Gordon's death, but they did not want to be identified for fear of retribution.

The teen's bail revelation comes as Premier Jacinta Allan faces calls to abandon a planned overhaul of the youth justice system.

The plan includes a proposal to raise the age of criminal responsibility to 14 which would relax youth bail laws.

Shadow attorney-general Michael O'Brien called on Ms Allan's government to reconsider the changes which he says 'make no sense'.

'The government also needs to reassure Victorians that it will not weaken youth bail laws and it must reduce court backlogs, which are the worst in Australia,' he said.

Two boys, both aged 16, were arrested and interviewed by homicide detectives on Wednesday. Pictured: Dr Gordon and his girlfriend Dakota Nagel

Police also acknowledged Dr Gordon's death had sparked fear in the community.

'This type of incident can create fear and uncertainty,' Serious Crime Division Superintendent Janet Stevenson said on Thursday.

'We want our community to feel safe in their homes and to that end, Victoria Police will continue to do everything in our power to make this a reality.'

Dr Gordon was fatally stabbed after giving chase to a group of intruders who broke into his Sargent Street home.
Bitcoin sliumped to $39,500 this afternoon - but recovered immediately to get back above the key $40,000 figure.

It hit the seven-week low just before 3pm New York time - makring a 4.5 percent fall on the day. Its rival ether was also down 6.5% at $2,325.

Finance regulators, earlier this month, approved the trading of Bitcoin funds on the same exchanges used for stocks and shares.

That move was seen as a key factor in making the cryto mainstream, and soon after trading began on January 11, Bitcoin surged to $49,000.

Since then it has fallen back as the excitement of the approval by the Securities and Exchange Commission wanes. At the same time it is thought some investors took advantage of the higher price to lock on some profits.

The token was $46,800 on January 9 - just before it was approved by the SEC. Its all time high of just under $70,000 was in November 2021

Bitcoin's fall to $40k comes after it almost hit $50k just two weeks ago

The Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB) had the lowest fee of 0.20 percent while the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) incurred a fee of 1.50 percent, as of January 11

IS A BITCOIN ETF DIFFERENT TO BUYING BITCOIN OUTRIGHT? Yes. A spot bitcoin ETF allows investors to gain exposure to the price of bitcoin without the complications and risks of owning bitcoin directly. Those include setting up crypto wallets and accounts with crypto exchanges, some of which have poor cyber security records and are prone to hacks. SOURCE: Reuters Advertisement

The approval in January by the Securities and Exchange Commission of 11 bitcoin exchange-traded funds allowed brokers to start selling them finally - after years of anticipation.

They have attracted strong investor interest, though it is unclear if they will be able to maintain the pace of inflows in coming weeks.

Acording to Reuters, investors have poured $1.9 billion into nine new exchange-traded funds tracking the spot price of bitcoin in their first three days of trading, data from issuers and analysts showed. Fund giants BlackRock and Fidelity pulled in the lions share of the flows.

The costs of the funds vary, research by DailyMail.com shows.

A $10,000 investment in the most expensive would lead to fees of $150 over a year but the best value funds will cost nothing for six months and then $20 annually.

The new ETFs, which can be bought and sold on some of the country's largest exchanges, allow retail investors and institutions to own shares in funds that track the spot price of bitcoin.

The fee investors pay fund managers can vary - so which of the 11 new ETFs is cheapest? As of January 11, the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF had the lowest annual fee of 0.2 percent while Grayscale Bitcoin Trust incurred a fee of 1.5 percent.
When Dave King's wife Sarah told him that the police had called and said there was a warrant out for her arrest, his first instinct was that it was a scam.

Sarah said there was an officer on the phone, and she was being threatened with arrest for missing jury duty - and the only way out was to pay a hefty fine.

But during a two-hour ordeal which involved him speaking to a 'sergeant' who was able to recite countless details, including addresses and case file numbers, the criminals were able to convince Dave to transfer $2,000 directly into their bank account.

'They had Sarah's date of birth, her driver's license information, her maiden name,' 45-year-old Dave, who is an aerospace engineer, told DailyMail.com. 'We had just sold a house and they had both our old address and our new address. They had everything.'

But the couple, who live in Mims, Florida, with their four kids, are by no means alone. Earlier this month a top judge issued a fresh warning about a spike in this cruel con - which is affecting Americans across the country.

Dave King and his wife Sarah were targeted by scammers and ended up handing over $2,000

Fraudsters are posing as police or court officials and cold-calling victims - claiming they have failed to appear for jury duty.

Scammers demand a fine be paid - of hundreds or thousands of dollars - in order to avoid arrest.

And what Dave said rings true for others. Victims have reported how the crooks are exceptionally convincing - providing personal information about the victim and real names of federal judges, court employees or case and badge numbers.

If the victim says they were not due to do jury service, they might fire back that letters were sent on certain dates.

The scammer told Dave that there was a summons with Sarah's signature on it.

'I questioned him for an hour and a half and he had all the answers,' said Dave. 'Not even a hesitation. He had the address of our sheriff's office in Brevard County, and the number he was calling from was the right one for the police.

'I was on my computer and I was Googling it as I spoke to him. We were terrified so we tried to vet the process. Everything checked out,' he said.

As well as reeling off specifics, the scammers also relied heavily on the growing panic which Sarah and Dave were feeling.

'Sarah was in tears and she was visibly shaking,' said Dave. 'They told her if she did not stay on the phone with them and she did not comply immediately, then they would send the cops to our house and they would arrest her in front of our kids.

'She didn't want our children to see her in handcuffs and put in the back of a squad car.'

The fraudsters said that if she tried to go anywhere in public she would be sent to prison - and the only way to take care of it was paying a $1,750 'bond' and a $250 late fee.

Fraudsters are posing as police or court officials and cold-calling victims - claiming they have failed to appear for jury duty

The criminals persuaded Dave to drive to to local Wells Fargo, where they talked him through routing the funds to a fictitious bank account - all while keeping him on the phone.

'I was visibly upset at the bank with him on the phone. By the end he was acting like he was my buddy and saying that he would help take care of it. But the second the money started going through, the line went dead.'

Dave said how he felt completely violated by the experience.

He filed a report with the bank and with his local police department - but little came of the case.

While this happened in April 2020, authorities have warned that there has been an uptick in this scam in recent months.

One 18-year-old victim detailed in November last year how she was 'crying' and 'shaking' after receiving a similar call and being conned out of $750.

The TikTok user, who goes by Mar and lives in Arizona, said in a video how she was left terrified by the experience.

'I'm an 18-year-old college student. I didn't want anyone to have to bail me out of jail,' she said.

One 18-year-old victim detailed online how she was 'crying' and 'shaking' after being told that she had missed jury duty, and so would have to pay off 'two misdemeanors' amounting to $750

A warning earlier this month from the US Attorney's Office in the Middle District of Florida came after it had received a spike in phone calls from victims about the scams - but it said it was a 'nationwide' scam.

Officials said some fraudsters ask the victim to purchase a prepaid debit or gift card, while others ask them to make an electronic payment to satisfy the 'fine.'

They told Americans that in no instance will a court official, US Marshals Service, or other government employee contact someone and demand payment or personal information by phone or email.

The district's chief judge Timothy Corrigan said: 'If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be a judge or other court official, do not give them your credit card or other financial information.

'The court appreciates those citizens who are called for jury service and always endeavors to treat them with respect.'

Roger B. Handberg, US attorney for the district, added: 'This scam works by trying to create a false sense of urgency that you must pay money immediately to avoid arrest. Do not fall for it.

'Hang up the phone and instead report the call to the appropriate federal authorities.'

If there is one thing that Dave wants people to take from what happened to him, it is that no official authority would ever contact you over the phone in this way.

'They had me completely fooled,' he said. I want to stress that of it's over the phone, it's got to be a scam.'
The IRS last month announced it would scrap $1 billion in penalties

Many taxpayers got used to special tax breaks during the pandemic and are now finding their bills much bigger

America's tax debts are spiraling after the IRS put a halt to chasing payments during the pandemic.

Some 18.6 million taxpayers owed the IRS $316 billion in overdue taxes at the end of 2022, up from 16.8 million owing $308 billion in September 2019. And the figures are only set to grow this year.

Experts are warning that workers who have been used to getting refunds in the last few years can swing into money owed for 2024.

The trend has been fueled by the end of pandemic tax relief and also a booming stock market which puts more investors at risk of hefty Capital Gains Tax bills. The S&P 500 is currently up 22.1 percent while Bitcoin grew 155 percent in 2023.

Florida financial advisor Paxton Driscoll told DailyMail.com: 'People should definitely be aware their tax return is not going to be as great this year as they don't have the advantage of the Covid relief programs.

The number of taxpayers who owe money to the IRS is ballooning after the agency paused many collection efforts during the pandemic

Florida financial advisor Paxton Driscoll told DailyMail.com: 'People should definitely be aware their tax return is not going to be as great this year as they don't have the advantage of the Covid relief programs'

'But also their investments could land them with a bigger bill. A lot of millennials use investment apps like Robinhood and own tech stocks such as Google and Amazon which had a really great year.

'It means a lot of people could be liable for Capital Gains Tax they had no idea about.'

Capital Gains Tax is the levy investors pay on the profit they make from an investment after selling it. But for the 2023 tax year, it only applies to those whose profits exceed $44,625.

Many taxpayers benefited from temporary relief measures brought in during the pandemic. For example, the child tax credit was raised to $3,600 per child in 2021 before dropping back down to $2,000 last year.

As most initiatives have since expired, those that are used to getting refunds may in fact find they have balances due.

IRS data shows that, by the end of 2022, some 3.2 million Americans owed less than $500 while 1.8 million owed between $500 to $999.

A staggering 6.3 million were in debts of between $1,000 and $4,999 while 2.7 million owed between $5,000 and $9,999. A further 4.5 million people are $10,000 or more in arrears.

Examples of those who are behind on their taxes include a medical doctor who hasn't filed a tax return since 2019 and owes $1 million, according to the National Association of Enrolled agents.

But there are many reasons workers can end up in debt. For example, those with a steady paycheck get their taxes withheld each month.

However, there is no guarantee this withholding amount is enough meaning they might be landed with an unexpected bill at the end of the year.

In a bid to claw back debts, the IRS has waived penalty fees for Americans who underpaid taxes in 2020 and 2021

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel, pictured, told reporters: 'People need to know the IRS is on their side'

The issue is also compounded by the rise of the gig worker economy fueled by freelance working apps such as Uber, DoorDash and Instacart.

Gig workers must pay taxes during the year in quarterly estimates but if these estimates are wrong they can get a surprise balance at the end of the year.

In a bid to claw back debts, the IRS has waived penalty fees for Americans who underpaid taxes in 2020 and 2021.

Last month the agency said around 4.6 million people, businesses and tax-exempt organizations - most making under $400,000 per year - would be eligible for the relief. They must owe less than $100,000 in tax for the two years.

The olive branch is intended to reduce the IRS' backlog after it suspended sending out collection letters in February 2022 as a one-time relief package during lockdown.
A recent series of reckless events, triggered by political shifts in the Maldives, has cast shadows over the long-standing friendship

In the realm of idyllic beaches, where nations often showcase international camaraderie, a storm is brewing in the relationship between India and the Maldives. The Maldives, renowned globally for its pristine beaches, finds itself in the midst of a development surge on Lakshadweep, leaving India looking on with a touch of envy. This sentiment encapsulates the current India-Maldives controversy, shedding light on a relationship that has historically been characterized by mutual support and collaboration.

India has long been a key contributor to the Maldives' tourism industry, constituting nearly 11.8% of the market share in 2023. The two nations share a history of mutual assistance, exemplified during the 2004 Tsunami when India was the first to extend a helping hand. In the domain of security, joint defense exercises such as Ekuverin, Dosti, Ekatha, and Operation Shield underline the strategic partnership between the two nations. Both India and the Maldives play pivotal roles in securing the Indian Ocean region, aligning with the broader SAGAR vision. Notably, a 2021 agreement named Uthuru Thila Falhu signifies their joint commitment to developing the National Defence Force Coast Guard Harbour.

India's support extends beyond tourism and security, encompassing infrastructure development in health and education. India is a consistent pillar of support for the Maldives, evident in the ongoing Greater Male Development Project and the Hanimaadhoo International Airport Development initiative. In 2022, the National College for Policing and Law Enforcement (NCPLE) was inaugurated in the Maldives by the Indian External Affairs Minister, solidifying their commitment to education and institutional development.

However, the harmony in India-Maldives ties has recently hit a rough patch, coinciding with the election of the Maldives' new president. President Muizzu's "India Out" campaign has raised concerns, particularly as he broke tradition by visiting Turkey and China before New Delhi. The president's persistence in pressuring India to evacuate military personnel and the Maldives' participation in China's One Belt One Road initiative have strained relations further.

The controversy took an unexpected turn when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's social media posts promoting Lakshadweep tourism inadvertently triggered an international dispute. The posts, highlighting domestic tourism and economic development, lacked any explicit mention of India-Maldives friendship. In response, three Maldivian deputy ministers labeled Prime Minister Modi as a 'clown' and made derogatory remarks about India. The fallout resulted in the suspension of these ministers and the emergence of the '#BoycottMaldives' hashtag on Indian social media platforms.

This digital backlash took a toll on Maldives' tourism industry, with reports of canceled trips and a shift in focus by tour and travel companies from Maldives to Lakshadweep. The ripple effect reached the hotel industry, with numerous cancellations reported on popular booking platforms.

As the region witnesses multiple elections this year, India faces the imperative of safeguarding the fundamental framework of bilateral ties and regional stability. The Quad's Blue Dot initiative offers a potential counterbalance to China's One Belt One Road, requiring coordination with stakeholders like the United States and Australia in the Indian Ocean region for trade and defense purposes. In this evolving scenario, maintaining consistency in international relations and diplomatic finesse becomes paramount for India to navigate the stormy waters of the India-Maldives controversy.

(The writer is lecturer of law at Sanskriti University; views are personal)
China's green 'ro-ro' ship starts maiden voyage to Europe with 5,000 cars

(People's Daily App) 16:00, January 22, 2024

SAIC Anji Sincerity, built by China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) and commissioned by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), began its maiden voyage to Europe from Shanghai on Wednesday, transporting construction machinery and about 5,000 cars from Chinese automakers. Measuring 200 meters long and 38 meters wide, the "ro-ro" (roll-on/roll-off) vessel can carry 7,600 cars, the largest loading capacity of its class. Its dual-fuel design uses LNG, low sulfur fuel oil or traditional light diesel, which helps to reduce carbon emissions by about 30 percent compared to conventional wheeled cargo ships.

(Video source: Shanghai Daily)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
This three-storey marvel not only reflects a rich heritage but also incorporates innovative techniques, ensuring its endurance for over a millennium

The recently constructed Ram Temple stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and engineering innovation, combining ancient design principles with modern techniques to create a structure of unparalleled significance. Architectural designer Chandrakant Sompura, who hails from a family with a rich heritage of designing temples spanning 15 generations, envisioned the temple as a magnificent creation, setting it apart not just in India but on a global scale.

The Ram Temple, built in the Nagara style, a North Indian temple design, spans a total area of 2.7 acres with a built-up area of approximately 57,000 square feet across three stories. Remarkably, no iron or steel has been used in the construction, as Sompura believes the lifespan of iron is only 80-90 years. The temple reaches a height of 161 feet, about 70% of the iconic Qutub Minar.

The construction of the temple embraces a unique approach, utilizing the best quality granite, sandstone, and marble. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Ramancharla, Director of the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), played an active role, emphasizing the absence of cement or lime mortar in the joints. Instead, a lock and key mechanism, utilizing trees and ridges, was employed throughout the entire structure. CBRI ensured that the structural design was earthquake-resistant and capable of withstanding earthquakes with a return period of 2,500 years.

Shri Nripendra Mishra, chairman of the temple construction committee, asserts that the temple was built to last for more than a thousand years, a claim supported by the collaboration with top Indian scientists, including those from ISRO. The involvement of ISRO scientists underscores the prestige and significance of the project.

One of the unique challenges faced during construction was the sandy and unstable ground beneath the temple, owing to the proximity of the Saryu River. However, scientists devised an ingenious solution. The entire temple area was excavated to a depth of 15 meters, where engineered soil was laid to a depth of 12-14 meters. No steel rebars were used, and 47-layered footings were compacted to resemble solid rock. A 1.5-meter thick M-35 grade metal-free concrete raft reinforced the foundation, topped with a platform of 6.3-meter thick solid granite stone from South India.

The visible part of the temple is constructed with 'Bansi Paharpur' stone, a pink sandstone quarried from Rajasthan. The CBRI reports a total of 160 pillars on the ground floor, 132 on the first floor, and 74 on the second floor, all made of sandstone and adorned with intricate carvings. The sanctum sanctorum is lined with white Makrana marble, the same material used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

The construction process involved extensive analysis, including the examination of approximately 50 computer models. The chosen model, designed for both performance and architectural integrity while preserving the Nagara style, is a dry-jointed structure consisting only of interlocked stones without steel reinforcement. CBRI states that this design ensures a lifespan of 1,000 years.

Dr Sarada Srinivasan, an archaeologist specializing in heritage metals, highlights the traditional dry masonry used in earlier temple architecture, emphasizing the absence of mortar and iron. The Ram Temple incorporates these traditional elements while incorporating modern finite element analysis, sophisticated software tools, and 21st-century building codes, according to Dr. Ramancharla.

In conclusion, the Ram Temple is not just a heritage architecture but a modern marvel, blending the ancient principles of construction with cutting-edge engineering. The collaboration of skilled artisans, architects, and scientists ensures that this magnificent structure will stand the test of time, echoing the spirit of devotion and craftsmanship that has been a hallmark of Indian architectural heritage for centuries.

(The writer is a senior journalist; views are personal)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday underlined the significance of January 22 both in the country and worldwide throughout ages, marking the dawn of a new era with the return of Lord Ram to his birthplace, Ayodhya, symbolising the origin of a new kaal chakra.

Soon after conducting the rituals of the Ram Temple consecration, the Prime Minister emphasised that the joyous and festive mood of the entire nation was on a constant rise since the Bhoomi Pujan of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and the progress of the developmental works enthused new energy into the citizens leading them to celebrate Diwali.

Addressing the gathering that comprised Indias whos who from every field, the Prime Minister exclaimed that our Ram has finally arrived after centuries.

After centuries of patience, uncountable sacrifices, renunciation and penance, our Lord Ram is here, PM Modi remarked and congratulated the citizens on the occasion.

The Prime Minister said that experiencing the divine consciousness inside the Garbh Grih (inner sanctum) cannot be put into words and his body is pulsating with energy and the mind is devoted to the moment of Praan Pratishthaa.

Our Ram Lalla will not reside in the tent anymore. This divine temple will be his home now, the Prime Minister said expressing confidence and reverence that the events of today can be experienced by Ram Bhakts all around the country and the world.

This moment is supernatural and sacred, the atmosphere, environment and energy signify the blessings of Lord Ram upon us, Modi said.

Today, we have received the heritage of centuries of patience, today we have got Shri Rams temple, the Prime Minister said. He underlined that the nation that breaks the shackles of the mindset of slavery and derives inspiration from the experiences of the past is the one which writes history.

PM Modi said that todays date will be discussed in a thousand years from now and it is by the blessings of Lord Ram that we are a witness to this momentous occasion unfolding itself.

Days, directions, skies and everything are brimming with divinity today, the Prime Minister said, stating that this is not an ordinary time period but an indelible memory path being imprinted on time.

Speaking about the presence of Lord Hanuman in every work of Shri Ram, the Prime Minister bowed to Hanuman and Hanuman Garhi. He also bowed to Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughan and Mata Janki.

He acknowledged the presence of divine entities over the event. On the occasion Prime Minister apologised to Lord Ram for the delay in seeing todays day and said that as today that vacuum has been filled, surely, Shri Ram will forgive us.

Recalling, Sant Tulsidass return of Shri Ram in Treta Yug, the Prime Minister recalled the happiness that Ayodhya of the time must have felt.

Then the separation with Shri Ram lasted for 14 years and was still so unbearable. In this age Ayodhya and the countrymen suffered the separation of hundreds of years, he said.

Modi continued, despite Shri Ram being present in the original copy of the Constitution, a prolonged legal battle was fought after the independence. The Prime Minister thanked the Judiciary of India for keeping the dignity of justice intact. Embodiment of justice, Shri Rams temple was constructed through just means, he emphasised.

The Prime Minister informed that the entire nation, including small villages, is witnessing processions and cleanliness campaigns are being carried out in temples. The entire nation is celebrating Diwali today. Every household is prepared to light up the Ram Jyoti in the evening, Modi said.

Recalling his visit to Arichal Munai, the starting point of Ram Setu a day earlier , the Prime Minister said that it was the moment which altered the Kaal Chakra. Drawing an analogy to that moment, the Prime Minister said that he got the belief that todays moment will also be the one to alter the circle of time and move forward.

Modi informed that during his 11-day anushthan, he attempted to bow before all the places where Lord Ram had set foot.

Mentioning Pancwati Dham in Nashik, Thriprayar Temple in Kerala, Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh, Shri Ranganathswamy Temple in Srirangam, Shri Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram and Dhanushkodi, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the journey from the sea to river Sarayu.

From the sea to the Saryu river, the same festive spirit of Rams name is prevalent everywhere, he continued, Lord Ram is connected to every particle of the soul of India. Ram resides in the hearts of Indians.

He added that the feeling of oneness can be found within everyones conscience anywhere in India and there could not be a more perfect formula for collectiveness.

Recalling his experience of listening to Shri Ram Katha in many languages, the Prime Minister said that Ram is there in the memories, festivals of traditions.

In every age, people have lived Ram. They have expressed Ram in their style and words. This Ram Ras is continuously flowing like the flow of life. Ram Katha is infinite and Ramayan too is endless. Ideals, values and teachings of Ran are the same everywhere.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the sacrifice of the people who made todays day possible. He paid tributes to Saints, Kar Sewaks and Ram Bhakts.

The Prime Minister said, Todays occasion is not only a moment of celebration, but at the same time it is also a moment of realization of the maturity of Indian society. For us, this is not only an occasion of victory but also of humility.

Explaining the knots of history, the Prime Minister pointed out that the outcome of a nations struggle with its history is seldom happy. Still, he said the gravity and sensitivity with which our country has opened this knot of history shows that our future is going to be much more beautiful than our past.

Remembering the doomsayers, the Prime Minister said that such people did not realize the piousness of our social ethos. The construction of this temple of Ramlala is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and coordination of Indian society. We are seeing that this construction is not giving birth to any fire, but to energy. Ram Mandir has brought inspiration to every section of the society to move forward on the path of a bright future, he said.

He continued Ram is not fire, he is energy, he not conflict but solution, ram does not belong only to us but to all, Ram is not just present but is infinity

The Prime Minister emphasised that the whole world is connected with the Pran Pratistha and the omnipresence of Ram can be witnessed. He said that similar celebrations can be seen in many countries and the festival of Ayodhya has become a celebration of the global traditions of Ramayana. Ram Lallas prestige is the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, he added.

PM Modi underlined that it is not just the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Rams idol but also the consecration of the unwavering faith in Indian culture manifested in the form of Shri Ram.

He said that is the embodiment of human values and the highest ideals, which is the need of the hour of the entire world. The Prime Minister said that the resolutions of welfare for all have taken the shape of Ram temple today and it is not just a temple but Indias vision, philosophy, and direction.

This is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram. Lord Ram is Indias faith, foundation, idea, law, consciousness, thinking, prestige and glory. Ram is flow, Ram is effect. Ram is Neeti. Ram is eternal. Ram is continuity. Ram is Vibhu. Ram is all-pervading, the world, the universal soul, the Prime Minister said fervently.

He said that the impact of Lord Rams Pratishtha can be felt for thousands of years. Quoting Maharishi Valmiki, the Prime Minister said that Ram ruled the kingdom for ten thousand years which signifies the establishment of Ramrajya for thousands of years.

When Ram came in Treta Yug, Ramrajya was established for thousands of years. Ram had been guiding the world for thousands of years, PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister asked every Ram Bhakt to introspect about the path ahead after the realization of the grand Ram Mandir.

Today, I feel with a pure heart that the cycle of time is changing. It is a happy coincidence that our generation has been chosen as the architect of this critical path.

PM Modi underlined the importance of the current epoch and reiterated his line Yahi Samay Hai Sahi Samay Hai, This is the time, the right time.

We have to lay the foundation of India for the next one thousand years. Moving ahead from the temple, now all of us countrymen take an oath to build a strong, capable, grand and divine India from this very moment, the Prime Minister exhorted the countrymen. For this, he said, it is important that Rams ideal should be there in the conscience of the nation.

The Prime Minister asked the countrymen to expand their consciousness from Dev to Desh, Ram to Rashtra - from deity to nation. He asked them to learn from Shri Hanumans service, devotion and dedication.

These feelings of devotion, service and dedication in every Indian will become the basis of a capable, grand and divine India, he said. The Prime Minister continued and said that the spirit behind Mata Shabris trust that Ram will Come in every Indians heart will be the basis of Grand capable and divine India.

Referring to the depth and originality of Rams affection for Nishadraj shows that all are one and this feeling of oneness and cohesiveness will be the basis of capable, grand and divine India.

The Prime Minister pointed out that there is no room for despair in the country today. Highlighting the story of the squirrel, the Prime Minister said that those considering themselves to be small and ordinary must remember the contributions of the squirrel and get rid of any hesitancy.

He noted that every effort, big or small, has its strength and contribution. The spirit of Sabka Prayas will become the basis of a strong, capable, grand and divine India. And this is the expansion of the consciousness of the country from God and the consciousness of the nation from Ram, the Prime Minister exclaimed.

Throwing light on the Jatayus integrity who knew about his imminent defeat when he fought Ravan, the ruler of Lanka who possessed extreme knowledge and immense power, the Prime Minister said that the culmination of such duty is the basis of a capable and divine India.

Modi pledged to dedicate every moment of life to nation-building and said, With Rams work, Rashtras work, every moment of time, every particle of the body will connect the dedication of Ram with the goal of dedication to the nation.

Continuing his theme of going beyond self, PM Modi said our worship of Bhagwan Ram should be for the entire creation, from I to us. Our efforts, he said, should be dedicated to the creation of a Viksit Bharat.

Referring to the ongoing Amrit Kaal and young demographics, the Prime Minister noted the perfect combination of factors for the nations growth. The Prime Minister asked the young generation to take the support of their strong heritage and move ahead with confidence. India will reach the goal of prosperity by following the path of both the purity of tradition and the infinity of modernity, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister underlined that the future is dedicated to successes and accomplishments and the grand Ram Temple will be a witness to the progress and rise of India.

This grand Ram temple will become a witness to the rise of Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister said. Drawing lessons from the temple, the Prime Minister emphasized that a goal can be achieved if it is justified and born out of collective and organized power.

This is Indias time and India is going to move forward. After waiting for centuries we have reached here. We all have waited for this era, this period. Now we will not stop. We will continue to reach the heights of development, the Prime Minister concluded paying his obeisance at the feet of Ram Lalla and wishing the very best.
In a touching demonstration of devotion and collective spirit, Ayodhya is adorned with gifts from every corner of the country, marking the consecration of the magnificent Shri Ram Temple.

Among the standout offerings are:

Jalesars resonance: A colossal 2,100 kg Ashtadhatu bell from Jalesar in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, which now proudly stands as the largest bell in the temple complex. This monumental creation, constructed over four years at a cost of Rs 25 lakh, reaches a height of six feet and spans five feet in width. The bells reverberations are expected to reach far and wide, creating an enchanting melody that captivates all who listen.

Ujjain's sweet symphony: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, joined the celebration by sending a sweet offering of five lakh laddus. Acting on the directive of MP Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, these delectable treats are meticulously crafted at the Mahakaleshwar temple complexs laddu prasad manufacturing unit. Made from pure desi ghee and an assortment of dry fruits, these mouthwatering laddus, weighing around 250 quintals, added a sweet touch to the auspicious occasion.

Chhattisgarhs bounty: Chhattisgarh, the maternal birthplace of Lord Ram, played an active role in the grand consecration ceremony. On December 30, 2023, the state dispatched 3,000 quintals of rice, a collective effort from all 33 districts. This rice, including premium varieties, played a crucial role in the mahabhandara of Lord Ram on January 22. Additionally, the state contributed 100 tons of vegetables to enhance the elaborate preparations.

Rajasthans aromatic gesture: From the heartland of Rajasthan, 2,100 casks of mustard oil embarked on a journey to Ayodhya for the consecration ceremony. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma flagged off the yatra, underlining the significance of this aromatic contribution. This mustard oil, sourced from diverse regions across the country, will play a pivotal role in preparing the prasad for the devotees visiting Ram Lalla.

Gujarats fragrant offerings: Vadodara, Gujarat, contributed to the grandeur with a 108-feet-long incense stick, made from a blend of desi cow dung, ghee and aromatic herbs. Weighing 3,610 kg, this colossal incense stick is set to burn for one and a half months, diffusing its fragrant aroma up to 50 kilometres. Additionally, a special saree from Surat, embellished with a Ram Temple-themed necklace made of 5,000 American diamonds and two kilogram of silver, was gifted to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust by a benevolent diamond merchant.

Maharashtras culinary extravaganza: Chef Vishnu Manohar from Nagpur contributed a culinary delight to the festivities 7,000 kg of Ram halwa. This sweet treat was a gastronomic delight for those attending the Pran Pratishtha ceremony.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, considered one of the Modi governments strong critics, has stayed away from the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. However, that has not stopped the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo and his party members from celebrating the event. Kejriwal, Cabinet ministers and AAP MLAs took part in various events across the national capital as part of the party's plan to mark the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The Aam Aadmi Party organised various events in the city, including Sundarkand recitation, Bhandaras' (feasts), Shobha Yatras (processions), and Aarti (prayer) across Delhi's 70 assembly constituencies to mark the consecration ceremony.

Kejriwal, participated in several programs in his Assembly constituency offering prayers for the well-being, peace, prosperity, and development of the Delhiites. During this time, Kejriwal also enshrined Ram Lalla's idol at Albert Square on RK Ashram Marg. Along with the Cabinet ministers of the Kejriwal government, MLAs, and councillors also participated in various programs.

In a post in Hindi on X, Kejriwal said he participated in bhandaras organised in different areas of Delhi. "Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all of you on this sacred occasion of the installation of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram in the grand temple. Hail Siya Ram," he said in another post.

Kejriwal first arrived at the Udayan Marg where he participated in the ongoing program of Ramayana recitation and kirtan. Afterwards, he took Prasad from the Bhandara and reached Panchkuian Road near the RK Ashram Marg Metro Station. Here, Kejriwal joined the Sundarkand recitation program organized by the Pracheen Sannyas Ashram Shiv Hanuman Mandir Trust and accepted Prasad after listening to the Sundarkand recitation. Around noon, the CM arrived at Block C on Ashram Marg, where he inaugurated the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla and accepted the prasad from the Bhandara.

The new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday, an event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and watched by lakhs of people on television at their homes and in temples across the country.

"Our Ram has come," Modi said in his address that followed the consecration, which also marked the temple's inauguration. In Delhi, Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj participated in a 'Sundar Kand' recital at Sheikh Sarai.

"On the auspicious occasion of the 'Pran Prathistha' at the Ram temple, I had the privilege of attending the 'Sundar Kand' recital organised at Sheikh Sarai 2. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has organised shobha yatras and 'Sundar Kand' recitals in every ward of Delhi. Jai Siya Ram," he said in a post in Hindi on X. His Cabinet colleague Atishi participated in a puja and havan on the occasion.

In a post in Hindi on X, she said, "On the auspicious occasion of the 'Pran Pratishtha', I performed a puja and havan of Lord Shri Ram. Shri Ram is present in every particle of this world and in the mind of every human being. If we adopt the ideals of Maryada Purushottam (Lord Ram) in our personality, then life will be blessed. Jai Shri Ram."

Other party leaders will also hold events during the day. The Delhi government's three-day Ramlila at ITO's Pearey Lal Bhawan will culminate in the evening. The Delhi government wanted to stage events at the Bharat Mandapam, but failed to get permission for the venue from the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) that manages the facility.

Experts say after failing to secure any parliamentary seats in 2014 and 2019, the AAPs national convenor has peddled into religious politics and is following a similar path like the BJP. They say the partys reference to Deshbhakti curriculum, a course taught at all Delhi government schools to inculcate a sense of patriotism among students, and the launch of Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana shows its shift in politics.

In view of the events being organised by the AAP, the BJP has accused Kejriwal of misleading people for his political gains. Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Ramvir Singh Bidhuri said, Kejriwal is part of an alliance that called Sanatan Dharma a disease and he could have easily severed his ties with him. He abused the people he is clicking pictures with. People are aware of his politics and will face repercussions also.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said that more meetings were planned to be held with Congress for seat sharing in Uttar Pradesh for the Lok Sabha elections.

He said the aim of all the constituent parties was to strengthen the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).

The SP has already finalised alliance with the Rashtriya Lok Dal.

Akhilesh Yadav, after paying floral tributes to veteran socialist leader Janeshwar Mishra on his death anniversary here on Monday, said, The prime issue before the INDIA bloc is not only preventing Bharatiya Janata Party from coming to power in 2024, but also protecting the constitutional political order and the rights of disadvantaged sections of society.

Congress and SP have held seat-sharing talks for the Lok Sabha polls expected in April-May this year.

We've shared details of each seat with each other...I hope that the alliance happens before the (Bharat Jodo Nyay) Yatra reaches Uttar Pradesh, he said.

Akhilesh Yadav later held a meeting with party leaders who included former MPs, former MLAs and former MLCs. He said winnability was the criterion in decisions on seats.

We and RLDs Jayant Chaudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats... We are also in conversation with Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held and a way will be found. INDIA bloc should be strong; the question is not about seats but about victory. On the basis of victory, we all will take a decision together..., he said.

Yadav urged party workers to ensure registration of voters who are supporters of the SP in the new voters list. He accused the BJP government in the state of getting the names of some SP workers removed from the voters list.
Considering the continued spell of severe cold and foggy conditions, the Chandigarh administration on Monday extended school holidays for one more week for students up to Class 5. As per the UT Chandigarh Education Department notification, which applies to all government, government-aided and recognised private schools, the schools may organise online classes for these students.



There will be no classes in physical mode upto Class V on January 23, 24 and 25. As for students in Class 6 and above, the department said schools can choose whether or not to call back children for classroom learning, but they should take appropriate precautions to ensure that no child suffers from exposure to cold weather during their commute. It also said the schools should not open before 9.30 am and must close before 4 pm.



Meanwhile, Cold conditions continued unabated in Punjab and Haryana on Monday, with temperatures hovering below normal at several places. The Met office in Chandigarh said Bathinda in Punjab reeled from severe cold, recording a low of 4 degrees Celsius.



Gurdaspur also experienced a cold night, recording a minimum temperature of 4.5 degrees Celsius. The night temperature in Faridkot was recorded at 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Ludhiana at 5.6 degrees and Patiala at 5.8 degrees.



Chandigarh reeled from the severe cold with the minimum temperature being recorded at 6.5 degrees Celsius. In Haryana, a cold wave swept several places, including Sirsa, Fatehabad, Hisar, Bhiwani and Narnaul.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren today distributed offer letters to 2500 skilled youth in the "Employment Fair" organized at Tana Bhagat Indoor Stadium, Khelgaon, in Ranchi. On the occasion he said that the state government has included the textile industry in Jharkhand by making an excellent industry policy. The state government and textile industry people appointed 75% of the local people in their institutions as promised. Along with the state government, people from the textile industry have also worked step by step to provide employment to the needy people.

The CM said that in the last one and a half years, the state government has done the work of providing appointments to more than 50 thousand young men and women in the private sector. He said that earlier the youth of villages and villages used to prepare for army jobs, but in the present times, recruitments in the army have also stopped. Those children from villages and villages who used to get education while living in the city used to prepare for jobs in banks and railways, but due to wrong policy making, jobs in banks and railways have decreased today. Many central government enterprises have now gone into private hands, which is why government jobs are decreasing.

The CM said that by making a good industrial policy, our government has made a rule to provide employment to 75% of the local people in the industries established in the state.

Soren said that all the schemes made by the state government have been made according to the abilities and capabilities of the tribals and natives here, whether the plan is for women or men. He said that the women of the state are gradually becoming skilled and self-reliant. The women here also have an important contribution in strengthening the economy of the state. All the women present in this indoor stadium today have become self-reliant in some way or the other. The CM appealed to all the women present to join the schemes of the state government and become self-employed.

The CM said that if you yourself get involved in self-employment, then in the future you can also get other people involved in employment. The present state can become economically strong by connecting with various systems of the government.

The CM said that the government has launched the Abua Housing Scheme for the people deprived of permanent houses. At present our government is giving pension to all the persons above 60 years of age in the state. Disabled people and widows in the state are all covered under the pension scheme. Jharkhand is the first state in the country where Sarvajan Pension Scheme has been implemented. All the girls studying in the schools of the state are being linked to the Savitribai Phule Yojana. Under this scheme, girls are being given financial assistance for quality education. The Chief Minister said that children of tribals, Dalits, backward classes and minorities are now going to study abroad for some education.

The state government is providing 100% scholarship to the children studying abroad. The Chief Minister said that the state government thinks that the children here should also become doctors, engineers, lawyers, judges and other government officers after getting educated. For this purpose, Guruji Credit Card Scheme is being operated.

On this occasion, Rajya Sabha MP Mahua Maji, MLA Rajesh Kachhap, Chief Secretary L. Khyangte, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Vinay Kumar Choubey, Industries Secretary Jitendra Kumar Singh, JIADA MD Shashi Ranjan, Textile Industry Deepak Aggarwal and Sudhir. Dhingra along with a large number of young men and women who had received offer letters and other women were present.
The Delhi High Court on Monday refused to interfere with proceedings pending before the Lokpal of India against Jharkhand former Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) patriarch Shibu Soren in a case related to an alleged accumulation of disproportionate assets

Justice Subramonium Prasad held that Soren's plea was premature. Soren, who is now a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP), had approached the Court challenging the proceedings before the Lokpal and its order dated August 4, 2022, through which proceedings were directed to be initiated to determine whether a prima facie case exists to proceed further against him.

His plea argued that this order was passed without considering Sorens objections that no inquiry could be conducted against him because the complaint had been filed more than seven years after the alleged incident. Section 53 of the Lokpal and Lokayukta Act 2013 bars such investigation after the expiry of the limitation period, Soren argued.

The plea further said that proceedings before the Lokpal have been registered pursuant to a complaint dated August 5, 2020, and that although the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) commenced a preliminary enquiry sometime in July 2021 against Soren, his wife and their children, no copy of the complaint was provided to Soren till the end of February 2022.

Soren also challenged the Lokpals order of September 2020 through which the Lokpal directed the CBI to conduct a preliminary inquiry against Soren and submit a report.

The allegations against Soren are that he has amassed huge wealth, properties and assets by adopting unscrupulous and corrupt means in the State of Jharkhand over a period of more than ten years.

The assets, it is alleged, are not only in his own name but even in the names of his family members including sons, daughters, daughter-in-law, friends and various companies in various districts of Jharkhand, such as Ranchi, Dhanbad and Dumka etc.

The JMM patriarch has termed the allegations and the complaint mischievous, false, frivolous and motivated and a rambling yarn spun by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey.
To save precious lives of people met with road accidents, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Monday issued a fervent appeal to all private hospitals to join hands with the State Government under its ambitious Farishtey scheme  aimed at providing free treatment to all road accident victims.



Dr Balbir emphasized the Government's commitment to utilizing the Golden Hour  the crucial first hour after a road accident  to provide immediate and unbiased medical care to accident victims, regardless of nationality, caste, or socio-economic status.



We want to make maximum use of the golden hour to save precious lives of road accident victims, and without discrimination based on nationality, caste, or socio-economic status, the Punjab Government will ensure free treatment of all the road accident victims at nearby hospitals, including private hospitals, he stated.



He stressed the importance of collaboration with private healthcare institutions, urging hospitals, especially those providing tertiary and secondary care, to join the scheme. Empanelled hospitals will receive compensation based on the HBP 2.2 package rates defined by the National Health Authority. The State Health Agency has identified 52 packages covering the treatment of roadside victims.



So far, 384 hospitals in the State have registered under the Farishtay Scheme, with 146 being public hospitals and 238 private hospitals, revealed the Minister.



Elaborating on the upcoming flagship Farishtay Scheme, the Minister said that a reward of Rs 2,000 will be given to anyone bringing a road accident victim to the hospital for treatment. He assured that there would be no questioning by the police or hospital authorities unless the person voluntarily chooses to become an eyewitness.
Demanding that the farmers, who had lost more than 200 cattle in Raika Kalan village, be given compensation at the rate of Rs 50,000 per milch animal, former Union Minister and Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Monday called for taking adequate measures to stop the cattle disease from spreading to other villages.

It is shocking that the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who had earlier even promised compensation to farmers for loss of their goats and chickens, has not announced any compensation for the villagers of Raika Kalan who had lost nearly their entire cattle wealth to a fast spreading disease in the last five to six days, said Harsimrat.

She also condemned the Animal Husbandry Ministry for sleeping over the matter for days which had worsened the situation. The late reaction from the Animal Husbandry Ministry increased fatalities and has also resulted in the spread of infection to Sooch village which has also reported some cattle deaths, she said.

She demanded that the Animal Husbandry Department provide necessary medicines to the affected farmers as well as dairy owners in neighbouring villages also.

There is a sense of fear among cattle owners due to the failure of the Animal Husbandry Department in taking steps to halt the spread of the disease in other villagesAdequate medicines are not available in veterinary clinics which has compounded the problem, she added.
Hundreds and thousands of people thronged various temples, organised religious processions and community kitchens at many places in Haryana and Punjab to celebrate the consecration ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday.



Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Union minister Som Parkash and several Punjab ministers attended religious events held on the occasion of the consecration ceremony. Khattar watched the live telecast of the 'Pran Pratishtha' at an event in Karnal, where he also offered prayers at a temple. He also raised "Jai Shri Ram" slogans and danced to the tune of 'Ram bhajans'.



He said the wishes of crores of people of the country and around the world have been fulfilled today as the "long wait of 500 years has come to an end" with the construction of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya.

On this occasion, the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh UT Banwari Lal Purohit and other Ram devotees present at the Punjab Raj Bhavan watched the live telecast of this ritual and the entire Raj Bhavan became Rammai. The entire Punjab Raj Bhavan was decorated beautifully with different flowers and colorful lights, which was a spectacle in itself.

The Governor expressed his feelings as a Ram devotee and said that along with all the people of India, I too had been waiting for this divine occasion for a long time, which has concluded with such grandeur. After the completion of the sacred ritual of Pran Pratishtha, a Bhandara was also organized at the Punjab Raj Bhawan in which the Governor along with all the devotees, officials and employees of Punjab Raj Bhawan and the officers of UT administration also partook and relished the prasad.

The new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday, an event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and watched by lakhs of people on television at their homes and in temples across the country.



As religious fervour swept both states, saffron flags carrying images of Lord Ram with bow and arrow and the temple dotted streets with devotees singing 'Ram ayenge, mere ghar Ram ayenge' and other 'bhajans' in shobha yatras (processions). With chants of 'Jai Shri Ram, Jai Siya Ram' renting the air during a shobha yatra in Amritsar, one of the devotees participating in the processions said, "It is an emotional and joyous moment for everyone as this day came after a 500-year long wait."



Priests performed puja at decked-up temples, while 'havans' were also held at several places on the occasion. To mark the grand event, roads leading to temples at many places in Punjab and Haryana were given a facelift. Giant LED screens were put up at some temple complexes to enable people to watch the live telecast of the 'Pran Pratishtha' rituals from Ayodhya.

Despite the bone-chilling cold wave conditions, devotees made a beeline to offer prayers in temples at several places, including Chandigarh, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Karnal, Panipat, Gurugram, Rohtak, Faridabad, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala and Pathankot.

Many shopkeepers and commercial establishments in both states held 'langars' (community feast) and distributed tea, fruits and biscuits. People were seen thronging markets to buy earthen lamps and decorative lights as a festive atmosphere prevailed in the twin states and their common capital Chandigarh. Markets at several places were also decorated with flowers, illuminating lights and saffron flags with most of the shops playing religious songs. Volunteers of various outfits visited door-to-door and distributed flags and diyas (earthen lamps) to people.

In Panchkula, BJP MLA and Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Gian Chand Gupta distributed 'laddoos' to the public to celebrate the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony.



Several Punjab ministers including Harpal Singh Cheema, Chetan Singh Jauramajra, Lalchand Kataruchak, Aman Arora and Bram Shanker Jimpa also attended religious programmes in their respective assembly constituencies.



Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Punjab assembly Partap Singh Bajwa also participated in religious programmes at temples in Qadian in Gurdaspur and congratulated people on the occasion of the consecration ceremony. In Amritsar, special religious events were organised at the Durgiana temple and Bhagwan Shri Balmik temple.



In Ludhiana, special ceremonial prayers were held in Sangla Wala Shivala, Krishna Mandir, and Durga Mata Mandir. AAP MP Sanjeev Arora after offering prayers at the temple at Hambran road asked people to follow the preaching of Lord Ram.

Himachal witnesses celebrations during Ram Lallas Pran Pratishtha ceremony

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh on Monday witnessed a Diwali-like atmosphere as the new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple. Grand celebrations, including various cultural and religious programmes and bhandaras, were organised across the Congress-ruled state with lakhs of devotees taking part. About 4,000 LED screens were installed in temples across Himachal Pradesh for live broadcast of the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony from Ayodhya. An Akhand Ramayan recital was organised at a temple devoted to Lord Ram in Shimla.



Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla organised a Sundar Kand recital in the Raj Bhawan. The governor also watched a live telecast of the consecration ceremony from the Raj Bhawan.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu paid obeisance at Shri Hanuman temple Jakhu on Monday and said that on the occasion of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, he offered prayers at Hanuman Jis Temple, a devoted follower of Shri Ram. He urged the people of the state to light lamps and embrace the values embodied by Shri Ram and said that the idol of Shri Ram would be installed in Jakhu temple premises.



On Sunday, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced a full public holiday for Monday so that people can witness the Pran Pratishtha. He had also appealed to the people to light diyas on the occasion. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri said in a post on X that the entire Cabinet will soon visit the temple in Ayodhya.
On the auspicious occasion of the grand consecration of Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Lohardaga Lok Sabha MP Sudarshan Bhagat visited various temples in Lohardaga Municipality area like Durga Temple Barwatoli, Ram Mandir Rana Chowk, Hanuman Mandir Mahveer Chowk, Bada Hanuman Mandir Gudri, under construction Hanuman Mandir. Visited the temple, Raja Bangla etc. and joined the celebrations with the people and celebrated. He also participated in the puja and Mahavir Chowk program organized in honour of Kar Sevaks and were honoured with certificates.

MP Sudarshan Bhagat said that after the penance and sacrifice of lakhs of Sanatani brothers and waiting for more than 500 years, today this day has come for all of us. This day and the struggle done for it cannot be completed even by describing it in countless words. Today the cultural and mythological heritage of India has been reestablished. Which was once an attempt to end the story of Ram's glory and his charitable thoughts. But Ram has always been present in everyone's heart and the proof of that is that today he once again incarnated with the cooperation of the common people. There are people who believe in Ram not only in India but all over the world.

Today the whole world is celebrating. We start every auspicious work with the name of Ram. Ram is ideal in every form. We are fortunate. Every human being present on this earth is fortunate who is witnessing this moment. Today, only a great personality, who has an efficient leadership for this work, is determined and strong-willed, has faith in his cultural and mythological Vedas, understands the collective participation of the people, and respects the feelings of the saints, could have made this work successful. In this, God chose innumerable people including Modi ji for charitable work and today our dream has come true, for this, no matter how much we praise public participation and Modi ji, it will be less. A large number of people including MP representatives Chandrashekhar Prasad Agarwal, Braj Bihari Prasad, Ajay Mittal etc. were present on the occasion.
From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, over one lakh Jai Shri Ram programmes were held on the day of the consecration of Ram Mandir on Monday as per a data shared by the traders' bodies. More than 30,000 business organizations across the country organized over 50,000 programs in their respective markets to express joy and enthusiasm for the consecration of the Shri Ram Mandir. These events involve the recitation of Shri Sundarkand to the singing of Shri Hanuman Chalisa to live telecast of the consecration of ram mandir ceremony from Ayodhya.

According to Praveen Khandelwal, secretary general of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), as per initial reports, more than one lakh programmes were held in the cpuntry, involving the recitation of Shri Sundarkand to the singing of Shri Hanuman Chalisa to live telecast of the consecration of ram mandir ceremony from Ayodhya. " It is estimated that 10,000 LED screens were set up by business organizations across the country. Moreover, more than 50,000 locations organized recitations of Sundarkand, Hanuman Chalisa, and kirtans. Around 10,000 musical events featuring Shri Ram songs and bhajans took place, along with 5,000 Shri Ram processions and 25,000 bhandaras organized by traders nationwide", Khandelwal said.

From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, every city has been colored in the hue of Ayodhya. The entire country, by lighting millions of lamps, celebrated Diwali and expressed faith and devotion towards Lord Ram, he added.

In Delhi alone, all major markets and bazaars were illuminated. Over 2,000 bhandaras are set up in Delhi today, and more than 500 markets have installed LED screens to broadcast live coverage from Ayodhya, connecting traders and citizens directly with the proceedings. In Connaught Place, the New Delhi Traders Association illuminated one lakh twenty-five thousand diyas together, while elaborate arrangements for lighting lamps on a large scale are in place across all markets in Delhi to celebrate a grand Diwali. According to traders' a total business is estimated over Rs 1.25 lakh crore so far.

Leading multiplex chain PVR INOX on Monday said the live broadcast of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in its theatres had over 70 per cent occupancy. "The live broadcast in cinemas conducted in association with Aaj Tak received an overwhelming response with over 70 percent occupancy with people across all age groups and communities choosing to witness the auspicious occasion on the big screen. We are glad that audiences appreciated our endeavour coming out in huge numbers to be part of the celebration inside our cinemas," Gautam Dutta, Co-CEO, PVR INOX Ltd, said in a statement.
Punjab Chief Electoral Officer Sibin C on Monday held a meeting with the representatives of political parties to handover the CDs of final publication of the electoral roll (without photos). He informed that the hard copy of the photo electoral rolls (including photo) can be seen in the office of District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner, Electoral Registration Officers, and BLOs.

Till the final publication of voter lists on January 22, 2024, the total number of voters in Punjab are 2 crore 12 lakh 31,916. Out of this, male voters are 1,11,75,220, female 1,00,55,946, third gender 750, NRI 1595, disabled voters 1,65,410, and service voters are 1,06,635.

CEO informed that the total number of polling stations in Punjab are 24,433  out of which, the number of urban polling stations are 7648 and the number of rural polling stations are 16,785. All the polling stations are set up on the ground floor for the convenience of the voters; and the distance of polling station is not kept more than two kms for any voter to vote, he added.

He said that three vans have been set up to physically demonstrate EVM/VVPAT functionality to the public for awareness and to increase voter turnout.

During the meeting, the representatives of the political parties were requested to appoint their booth level agents at each polling station so that the elections can be completed in a transparent manner.
On the instructions of Governor Mangubhai Patel, Raj Bhavan will be opened for the general public for three days on the occasion of Republic Day. Raj Bhavan will remain open for the stipulated period from January 25 to 27, 2024. Common citizens will be able to visit Raj Bhavan on 25th and 27th January from 2 pm to 7 pm. On Republic Day, January 26, Raj Bhavan will be open for the visit of the public from 11 am to 2 pm.

On this occasion, a photo exhibition will be organized by Central Bureau of Communication, Bhopal centred on Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra and Madhya Pradesh Freedom Fighters at Raj Bhavan. Cultural programmes and puppet shows will also be performed by the cultural troupe of the Bureau. 3-D selfie booths of the country's achievements will be installed at the exhibition site. During this period, quiz programmes will also be organised for the visitors.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared his feelings following the completion of the Pran Pratishtha of the Bal-roop vigraha (child form) of Lord Ram in Ayodhya Dham. Expressing deep satisfaction, the chief minister remarked, the temple has been constructed exactly where it was resolved to be built.

Prabhu Shri Ram Lalla ki Jai! Sarayu Maiya ki Jai! Bharat Mata ki Jai! Jai Jai Shri Sita Ram! Hearty congratulations to all of you as Lord Shri Ram Lalla is enshrined in his bhavya-divya-navya dham, the chief minister asserted, adding that on this eagerly anticipated day, after a hiatus of 500 years, emotions swell in the heart to a degree where words fail to capture the profound sentiments.

The mind is immersed in a sea of emotions, profoundly moved and overwhelmed. Undoubtedly, each of you must be experiencing a similar sentiment, he added.

Today, on this historic and profoundly sacred occasion, every city and village in India transforms into Ayodhya Dham. Every route converges toward the birthplace of Shri Ram, the chief minister said.

All eyes are wet with tears of joy and satisfaction. And, everyone is chanting Ram, Ram. The whole nation is Rammaya, giving us a feeling that we have stepped into the era of Treta Yuga. Today, Raghunandan Raghav Ram Lalla graces the throne of our resolution, which is filled with emotions. Joy, pride and a profound sense of contentment fill the hearts of every devotee of Ram on this auspicious day, he pointed out.

Finally, the day India had eagerly awaited has arrived. Nearly five centuries have passed in anticipation of this emotional moment. Dozens of generations left this land for Saketdham (heaven) with unfulfilled wishes, but the wait and the struggle continued. Shri Ram Janmabhoomi might have been the first such unique case in the world, in which the majority community of a nation had fought for so many years and at so many levels for the construction of a temple at the birthplace of their idol in their own country, the chief minister said.

The chief minister claimed that every section of society, including ascetics, saints, priests, Nagas, Nihangs, intellectuals, politicians and tribals rose above caste-creed, thought-philosophy, cult-worship systems and dedicated themselves to the cause of Ram. Finally, today marks the auspicious occasion when the sacrifices and penance of millions of Sanatani believers find fulfillment. There is a deep sense of satisfaction that the temple stands exactly where it was resolved to be built, he added.

Heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the realisation of our sankalp (pledge) and sadhna (asceticism) for bringing an end to our prolonged wait, and for the fulfillment of our resolution! he said.

The chief minister said that on January 22, the world witnessed the consecration of the bal-roop vigraha of Lord Ram in the sanctum sanctorum of the newly-constructed temple in accordance with Vedic rituals. It is a supernatural image of our Lord, precisely as described by Saint Tulsidas: Navkanj lochan, kanj mukh, kar kanj, pad kanjarunam (With freshly bloomed lotus-like eyes, lotus-like face, lotus-like hands and feet as tender as a lotus.) Blessed is the artist who gave concrete shape to the image of Ram Lalla that resides in our hearts and minds, he said.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi mukti mahayajna was not merely a test of Sanatan belief; it successfully awakened the collective consciousness of the nation, uniting India in the thread of unity. Witnessing this long-awaited new dawn unfold in India after centuries, the whole of India, including Ayodhya, is filled with joy, he said, adding that the present generation was fortunate to witness the completion of this work in the service of Lord Ram.

The chief minister said today, Ayodhya was basking in the radiance of its Treta Yuga glory, becoming a global symbol of divinity and grandeur. He said this sacred city was progressively solidifying its position as the cultural capital of the world, captivating the attention of people worldwide.

Chief Minister Yogi said this remarkable transformation had been made possible through the resolute determination, willpower and foresight of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Just a few years ago, envisioning an airport in Ayodhya was beyond imagination. Yet, here we are, with an airport, a 4-lane road within the city, and the introduction of cruises along the river Sarayu. This dream is coming true due to the efforts of the double-engine government, he said.

He said the work of rejuvenation, conservation, operation and maintenance of various places like Ram Ki Paidi, Naya Ghat, Guptar Ghat, Brahmakund, etc. was being done in Ayodhya along with cultural mapping of the Ramayana tradition while the process of constructing Ramayana galleries on the Ram Van Gaman Path was going on.

Chief Minister Yogi pointed out that the new Ayodhya not only preserves its ancient culture and civilisation but also embraces modern urban development to cater to future needs. He said inspired by the prime minister, Ayodhya was evolving into a Solar City that harmonized tradition with contemporary urban amenities. Navya Ayodhya is moving towards becoming a major centre for Sanatan believers, saints, tourists, researchers and inquisitive people from all over the world, he added.

The chief minister said that the Divya Deepotsav of Ayodhya was becoming the cultural identity of the new India and the consecration of Ram Lalla was proving to be a harmonious expression of the cultural conscience of India.

The consecration of Ram Lalla in Awadhpuri heralds the proclamation of the establishment of Ram Rajya in India, he added.

The chief minister thanked all the architects, engineers, craftsmen and officials of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust who contributed to making the dream of a grand divine Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple come true.

CM gifts silver models

of Ram Temple to

PM and RSS chief

Ayodhya: Prior to the consecration ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Gorakshpeethadhishwar Yogi Adityanath extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat. Yogi also presented silver models of Shri Ram Temple to both the prime minister and the RSS chief as a gesture of honouring them.
Special prayers at various temples were held and processions were taken out in Bihar's capital Patna on Monday as part of the celebrations of the Ram Mandir consecration in Ayodhya.

Temples were decorated with flowers, while thousands of 'diyas' lit up in the evening to mark the occasion. Women devotees of Lord Ram with religious flags sung 'kirtan' (devotional songs) at temples. Religious procession was also taken out from various locations of Capital, with most the procession assembling at Main Road.

Meanwhile, Ramotsav was celebrated amidst tight security in the capital Ranchi. Apart from two thousand police officers and 100 magistrates, CRPF personnel have also been deployed in Ranchi district. Along with the district police, CRPF personnel have been deployed in the highly sensitive area so that no untoward incident happens. CRPF soldiers have been deployed around the Ram Temple located on the main road of Ranchi. Apart from this, security forces have been deployed around all the temples of the capital Ranchi.

Every activity of the city is being monitored from the control room regarding Ramotsav. Apart from this, the police team is keeping an eye on social media. Ranchi Police has appealed to the city residents that if they get any kind of rumor then they should inform the police and not pay attention to the rumours. Ranchi Police is alert about this and is keeping an eye on every activity. On the instructions of the SSP, a flag march was carried out by Kotwali DSP, Kotwali police station in-charge, Lower Bazaar police station in-charge, policemen along with City SP Rajkumar Mehta from the main road from Ranchi's Firayalal to Daily Market, Karbala Chowk.

The festival is being celebrated by bursting crackers, processions are being taken out by various organizations of the city and everyone is congratulating each other. Ramotsav is being celebrated with great pomp by bursting firecrackers. In Ranchi, a procession has been taken out in all the areas including Firayalal Chowk, Sarjana Chowk, Main Road, Argora Chowk, Sahajanand Chowk.

On this occasion, Ranchi MP Sanjay Seth toured Ranchi urban and rural areas in a special vehicle. During this, the MP showered flowers on dozens of processions. The Ranchi MP visited dozens of temples and took blessings from God. Participated in Aarti, Havan and puja. The MP also visited Ranchi city and remote areas like Namkum, Tatisilve. Best wishes to Ram devotees on this special day.

On this occasion, MP Shri Sanjay Seth said that today the whole world is happy. Today we are celebrating Ram Navami and Diwali together. After waiting for centuries, Lord Ramlala has returned to his birthplace. This day is historic and wonderful for the whole world. Neither past nor future, a day like this day will probably never come. Every Ram devotee was waiting for this day and by the grace of Lord Ram, the wait of all the devotees was fulfilled. Today is not the day of speaking in words, today is the day of our feelings. Endless best wishes to all Ram devotees. Shri Seth said that the concept of the state which was conceived by Lord Ram is being completed under the leadership of respected Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. We are moving towards Ram Rajya. This has become possible only by the grace of Lord Ram.
People across Uttarakhand came together on Monday to make the local celebration of the consecration ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya as big as the real consecration. A sense of excitement was observed among people of all ages who termed the consecration day the once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Several people celebrated the consecration by singing and playing Ram Bhajans and distributing Prasad, sweets and organising Bhandaras. In the provisional State capital, the ambiance was like Deepawali. Most markets, several streets and main roads were decorated with orange-coloured balloons, flags, festoons and flowers. Various groups of people voluntarily took out rallies and processions with the images and posters of Lord Ram, Sita, Hanuman and Lakshman.

Many people also visited temples in the morning and offered prayers. Every nook and corner was filled with joyous echoes of Jai Shri Ram and Bhajans. People could be seen waving flags and playing devotional songs on speakers. Many people had also placed screens in public places for the live telecast of the consecration ceremony. Many sanitation workers and rag pickers among others could be seen watching the live telecast of the ceremony on the screen placed in Paltan Bazaar. A 70-year-old Tara Singh who was singing and dancing to the Bhajans of Lord Ram in a religious programme organised near Tehsil Chowk said on the occasion, Everyone should celebrate every moment of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya because we got it after a struggle of about four centuries. I celebrated this occasion with my grandchildren and made them aware of its importance. Several people, groups, organisations and societies also celebrated the event by decorating their respective areas and carrying out Prasad distribution in colonies as well as on main roads. Many people were even stopping vehicle owners to give them Prasad. Alok Pandey who was handing over Halwa as Prasad on the Court Road said, We were distributing Prasad to people since 11 AM.

Since it was a busy road, we saw that many people in cars and two-wheelers were not stopping by for Prasad, possibly for fear of causing a traffic jam. So we started approaching them and politely handed them the bowl of Prasad and everybody graciously accepted. Besides this, priests were also quite busy on Monday as they were being called to do Pujas and other ceremonies with people considering the day auspicious. The demand for items like festoons, flowers, flags and sweet shops also increased on the day. Many also set up stalls of crackers in various parts of the city. Some burst crackers during the day while many bought them to burst at night to celebrate the occasion. Many shopkeepers said that this was the first time they sold such a large quantity of crackers besides Deepawali. They stated, The business is not usually good at this time of the year but the consecration ceremony was like Deepawali to us.
Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon on Monday said the 'pran pratishtha' at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was a historic moment for devotees across the world.

In a post on X, Gilon said he looked forward to visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya soon.

"Surely, it will be more grand and beautiful than this model I have," the Israeli ambassador said, sharing a photograph of his with a model of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya.

Several Israeli diplomats in India extended their greetings on the occasion of consecration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis said he was delighted to arrive in India when the country was celebrating its "second Diwali."

"Namaste, Bharat. Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its Second Diwali'. Looking forward to fruitful discussions over the next few days on Peace, Progress, Prosperity and Sustainability," the Francis said.

South Korea's embassy said the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was of special significance to the country.

"The place holds a great symbolic importance for Korea-India relations based on the matrimonial link between Queen Sriratna (Heo Hwang-ok) from Ayodhya and King Kim Suro from Gaya (Korea) in 48 A.D.," the embassy said.

"We hope this family-like and spiritual bonds between our two nations will continue to strengthen and deepen, inspired by the idealism personified in Lord Ram as Maryada Purushottam," the embassy said on X, formerly Twitter.
Piesa cu peste 80 de milioane de vizualizari, la Te cunosc de undeva: "E ca imnul Romaniei - toata lumea il stie, dar, cand trebuie sa il canti, iti dai seama ca nu stii"
Chevron Corporation, through a network of subsidiaries, engages in integrated energy and chemicals operations worldwide. The company is the 7th largest integrated oil company worldwide, the 2nd largest in the US, and has been in operation since 1879. Chevron was part of the original Standard Oil Company and is one of the 34 successor companies that were formed when it was broken up. Today, the company brings in roughly $160 billion in annual revenues and is the last remaining oil and gas component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

Originally called Standard Oil Of California the company grew quickly via mergers and acquisitions. It was hailed as one of the Seven Sisters to dominate the US and global production throughout the mid-20th century and became even bigger in 1985 when it merged with Gulf Oil. The merger with Gulf Oil resulted in the rebranding from Standard Oil Of California to Chevron (a brand used by the company outside its California jurisdiction) and then ChevronTexaco Corporation in 2005 when that merger took place. The company rebranded again in 2005 to what we know today as Chevron Corporation.

Chevron Corporation is now based in San Ramone, California, and has operations in 180 countries. The company employs more than 42,500 people who operate 5 refineries and 8,000+ Texaco, Chevron, and Standard Oil service stations in the US alone. The company's Exploration and Drilling operations produced a record 3.1 million barrels per day and its US refineries process more than 1 million barrels per day. At the end of 2021, the company has more than 11.3 billion barrels of proven oil and liquid-equivalent reserves and boasted a 112% reserve replacement rate.

The company operates in two segments, Upstream and Downstream. The Upstream segment explores new reserves, develops known reserves, produces petroleum and gas products as needed, transports, processes, pipes, stores, and markets petroleum worldwide. The Downstream segment refines and markets the full line of petroleum-based products including but not limited to fuels such as gas, diesel, and aviation fuel, as well as lubricants, petrochemicals, and plastics. The company transports products via pipeline, rail, marine vessels, and truck.

Chevron recognizes the need to lower the worlds carbon output and is working toward that end. The companys strategy is two-pronged and includes reducing its own carbon output while investing in green and lower-carbon technologies. The companys goal is to invest $10 billion or more into lower carbon energy sources and technologies by 2028.

Chevron is a Dividend Aristocrat. The company has been paying a dividend since 1989 and it has raised it every year since its inception.






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The Western Health and Social Care Trust (Western Trust) Glendermott Medical Practice Social Work Team supported by the GP Federation and Translink is delighted to host their first Chat-Tea Train event for 2024!

Following on from the very successful Chat-Tea Train events last year the next Chat-Tea Train will be departing from Waterside Train Station, Derry/Londonderry to Coleraine on Thursday 08 February 2024.

Shona McEleney,GP Social Work Assistant, Glendermott Medical Practice, Waterside Health Centre explained: We are looking forward to welcoming people on board our Chat Tea Train next month. This event is open to people aged 60+ who have their travel pass card.

We are asking people to arrive at Waterside Train Station for 10am to give them time to get their ticket and have a chat with other passengers before we board our train to Coleraine at 10.38am.

Passengers will have the option of free time to grab a cup of tea/coffee, bite to eat or shop at their leisure in Coleraine town.

Passengers are asked to be back in the Train Station for 13.30pm to give plenty of time before we hop on board to make the return journey at 13.43pm and arrive back in Derry/Londonderry for 14.22pm.

Shona added: This is our third Chat-Tea train event and we hope it will once again benefit people in our local community who are experiencing loneliness or isolation, provide an opportunity for people to reminisce about their early childhood memories of travelling by train to the seaside and bring joy and friendship for everyone who attends.

We are asking people to please confirm their interest in attending this event with their GP Practice Social Work Team by 02 February 2024.

It is possible to get free parking at the train station, as long as you retain your parking ticket. The Social Work Team are there on the day to support.

Thank you to Translink for their continued support it is very much appreciated.
Young Yazmin Doherty from Derry is suit shopping for the glitzy Families First NI: Spring Awards, Early Years ceremony.

The Oakgrove Integrated Primary School pupil found out a few days before Christmas she was a finalist in the Child Superstar category.

Yazmins father, Gerard, said the whole family got a lovely surprise when Ann King, the awards organiser, phoned and said Yazmin had been nominated.

Speaking to Derry Now, Gerard said Yazmins mum, Nicola, and himself were very much looking forward to the prestigious event, which is taking place in the Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast on March 20.

Giggling, Yazmin (7) said she was very excited when she heard she had been nominated. I was so happy. I cant wait to go to Belfast in March.

According to Gerard, Ann told him Yazmin had been nominated for the Child Superstar Award because of the work she puts in every year for the River Radio annual Christmas Toy Appeal.

My favourite part of the Toy Appeal is going to the depot, pulling the toys around in the trolley and being on the forklift truck, said Yazmin.

The Families First NI: Spring Awards, Early Years ceremony will be hosted by Cool FMs Pete Snodden.

TV and radio presenter, Robin Elliott will also be there recording wee interviews, said Gerard.

The Toy Appeal was originally Yazmins idea and Gerard said he and Nicola were delighted when they were told about her award nomination.

He added: Yazmin puts so much effort and commitment into the Toy Appeal every year and we are very, very proud of her.

It is amazing she has been nominated for this award because it means other people can see her commitment. It means too, Yazmin can see how much people in the North West appreciate the Toy Appeal.

I love helping my daddy with the Toy Appeal, said Yazmin. The best part is giving toys to everyone.

I am looking forward to getting my new suit for Belfast and to having a day off school.

Im sure Ms Slattery, Yazmins teacher, and her whole class, will wish her all the best for the Families First NI: Spring Awards, Early Years and have their fingers crossed.

Speaking to Derry Now, Derry City and Strabane District Councils Alderman Darren Guy (UUP) congratulated Yazmin on her Child Superstar.



Darren and his Council colleague Ald Ryan McCready, who have been involved in the River Radio Toy Appeal for a number of years, paid tribute to Yazmin and Gerard for their dedication in making sure every child has a present for Christmas.

Darren said: Back in the day, when I taxied, I would have donated toys to the Salvation Army coming up to Christmas. Then, when Gerard announced the first Toy Appeal, I got in touch with him and volunteered our office Bonds Street as a drop-off point for toy donations in the Waterside.

At the same time, there was a woman from the Waterside who decided she would do a Christmas Pyjama Appeal, so we were the drop-off point for both.

So we were getting the toys and the pyjamas in and because the cut-off point for the pyjama appeal was first, Gerard was coming in to pick up his toys and maybe had two or three bags of pyjamas to take with him as well, to add to the toys.

The fact our office was handy to everybody to drop off donations on the way past, meant we always get loads of Toy Appeal donations.

This year again, Gerard contacted us and said the Salvation Army had done the 300 families it normally did but he still had toys.

He asked us if we knew anyone in the community who needed presents for children for Christmas, for any reason, to let him know.

We put it out and a few people got in contact with Gerard who brought presents to them or he brought them down to the River Radio depot in Maydown. People were going away in tears.

Darren said there was one family having difficulty getting presents for four children.

I phoned Gerard and he asked me to meet him in the office in an hour and before the night was out, that family had everything they needed for all of the children, really good presents Im talking about.

I have to say, the people in this Council area are superb when it comes to helping anyone out. Everybody is really good and they dont scrimp either. It is the best of everything. If they are buying their kids the best of toys, then they are donating the best of toys to the Top Appeal.

I have to commend Gerard and, of course, Yazmin for their hard work. Gerard doesnt stop from the appeal opens till Christmas Eve.

He takes the toys to wherever they are needed, Strabane, all over the town - Waterside, Cityside. Gerard will go wherever the toys are needed. I think he deserves recognition.

It is great what he is doing. It has really grown legs in the last few years. He even runs the Santa Day in Toytown in Lisnagelvin.
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A man has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrates Court charged with assault.

James Moore (39) of Fern Park in Derry was charged with, on January 14, assaulting his partner causing her actual bodily harm.

Police received a report on January 17 from the victim telling them of the assault. She gave a written statement alleging that Moore had attacked her, requiring her to need stitches on her eyebrow.

The court heard how the victim managed to lock herself in the bathroom and call her sister, who arrived with her partner.

Moore later claimed that it was he that was attacked when his partner pulled his finger back.

Police objected to bail as they believe that Moore is at risk of reoffending. They told the court that he has eighty previous convictions and has a 'propensity for violence'.

The court further heard that, upon being released from custody on January 11, Moore immediately returned to the victim's address and stayed there.

Police added that it was not entirely one sided as the victim herself has a number of violent convictions, although none against Moore.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley told the court that this was a 'difficult case' but added that Moore set out a series of events that were the opposite of what was alleged, claiming that he was attacked by three people.

He was refused bail and will appear again on February 15.
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Nvidia's Jensen Huang embarks on first China visit in 5 years

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was spotted again in a night market in Taipei before the annual party of its Taipei subsidiary. Media reports revealed that Huang had already visited Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen last week to celebrate a year's fruitful results with its employees in China.

Nvidia confirmed that Huang had been in China last week. Photos shared by Nvidia China employees on social media showed Huang in a colorful flowery costume doing the Yangge Dance to entertain the employees.

Sources close to Huang said he did not visit with government officials in China and kept a low profile without doing important business visits or announcements. "The purpose of his visit in China is to express his gratitude to the employees and send his greetings for a happy Lunar New Year to everyone," according to a Beijing employee of Nvidia.

Jensen Huang last visited China in 2019 to participate in the Nvidia GTC conference in Suzhou, where he delivered a speech focused on the new dynamics of artificial intelligence (AI) and Nvidia's progress in several industries, including automated driving, gaming, and healthcare, etc. Until the latest visit in January, Huang had stopped visiting offices in China during the past five years since the outbreak of COVID-19 in early 2020.

Nvidia employees in China numbered nearly 3,000. Before the COVID-19 outbreak, Huang used to attend the annual party to visit offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen every year, according to a Yicai report quoting local employees. Nvidia's staff in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen covers marketing, sales, R&D, and other functions.
Qualcomm ignites the 6th edition of the Taiwan Innovation Challenge focused on AI PCs and Edge AI

Qualcomm Technologies has announced the commencement of the sixth edition of the "Qualcomm Innovate in Taiwan Challenge" (QITC), marking a significant upgrade with a primary focus on AI PCs and Edge AI.

In a bid to shape the AI landscape, this edition of QITC concentrates on AI PCs and Edge AI, encouraging startup teams to leverage the robust Snapdragon X Elite platform for groundbreaking AI applications on Windows PCs. Qualcomm anticipates transformative changes in the AI-driven PC sector in 2024 and encourages teams to explore innovative solutions that reshape computational experiences.

Qualcomm Vice President and President of Qualcomm Taiwan and South East Asia, ST Liew, remarked, "As AI becomes more pervasive, and computational demands snowball, we look forward to welcoming more startup teams to QITC. This edition's emphasis on AI PCs and Edge AI underscores our commitment to fostering innovation in areas like Windows PCs, drones, robots, and smart cities. In this era of flourishing AI opportunities, we inject innovative energy and contribute to the transformative application of new technologies."

Furthermore, Qualcomm's Edge AI solutions are designed to assist teams in driving innovation and transformation across various verticals efficiently. These solutions aim to propel the next generation of high-performance IoT applications. The competition, open for registration until March 31, seeks to select ten outstanding startup teams that will receive technical support, business guidance, intellectual property training, and cash subsidies during the incubation period. Selected teams also stand a chance to join Qualcomm's global commercial ecosystem, providing substantial opportunities for international market expansion.

Since its inception in 2019, QITC has supported the Taiwan ICT ecosystem through deep collaboration, providing technical support and abundant resources to startups. With 49 successful startups incubated to date, eight of them have entered Qualcomm's global commercial ecosystem.

In addition to technical support, Qualcomm's emphasis on intellectual property protection and patent strategy training plays a crucial role in the QITC incubation program. Through IP workshops and patent application incentives, Qualcomm encourages early consideration of intellectual property management, enhancing core competitiveness.

This year's competition, conducted under the guidance of the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), aims to deepen Taiwan's connection with the international innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. As Qualcomm partners with the Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA), QITC serves as a catalyst, attracting top-tier talent to engage in research and entrepreneurship, propelling Taiwan's tech startups onto the global stage.

Information sessions will be held in Taipei and Kaohsiung, welcoming Taiwanese startup teams to participate in the QITC competition. Check out the website for more information on the competition.
An Irish woman in her 70s is planning to skydive with her son this February to raise funds for Gaza.

Nenagh grandmother, Mary McDonnell (75), is doing the 10,000 foot skydive this February 11 with her son Michael in order to highlight the "utter devastation" suffered by the Palestinian people and to raise money for two grassroots organisations based in Gaza.

It comes following ongoing conflict in the Israel Palestine region since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

According to the pair's Go Fund Me campaign, which launched last week, all funds raised will go towards Medical Aid for Palestinians and Palestine Children's Relief Fund.

Both Mary - who was born in 1948, the same year as the establishment of the state of Israel - and Michael have been longstanding supporters of the plight of the Palestinian people.

They are both founding members of Nenagh Friends of Palestine, which was established in 2014 after a previous bombing campaign by Israel that year.

The fundraiser has raised over 6,000 out of a 10,000 goal since its launch last week thanks to 111 donors.

If you would like to support the duo, click here to make a donation.
The first-ever Irish language to debut at Sundance Film Festival has been picked up for global distribution by Sony Pictures Classics.

Kneecap, a semi-autobiographical biopic of the West Belfast group which was partly filmed in Dundalk and Greenore, will be released in cinemas across North America and the world following the deal.

Starring Kneecap members Moglai Bap, Mo Chara and DJ Provai as themselves, alongside Hollywood heavy-weight Michael Fassbender, the film is set in West Belfast in 2019 and tells "the origin story of the riotous and ground-breaking" trio.

After its premiere at Sundance in Utah the film scored a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating from critics along with rave reviews.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KNEECAP (@kneecap32)

The Hollywood Reporter have called it "gleefully irreverent", while Screen Daily describe the film as "destined for cult status, and just as ramshackle as any Blues Brothers or Spinal Tap was in its day."

Speaking to RTE, Kneecap producer Trevor Birney said: "That is just phenomenal, not only for Kneecap, which I am so happy for, but for Irish film and for the little community of producers in Belfast.

"We have had huge success with Game of Thrones and Derry Girls, but this is about indigenous film production, indigenous producers, indigenous crews, making independent film.

"I think this is a really break-out moment for Belfast, for the film community and I just want to pay tribute to them all and say our success is their success and I am delighted for everyone at home in Belfast.

"These guys are behind the films you have known and loved over the last 20 years. And that means that Kneecap the film is going to be seen in 200 cinemas in America this summer. They are going to roll Kneecap out across the world."

No release date has been announced as of yet by Sony Pictures Classic.

Kneecap will be released in Irish cinemas via Wildcard Distribution in 2024, with the band's debut album also due this year.
The issue of pay and conditions for Personal Assistants (PAs) who help third level students with disabilities in further education colleges has been raised with Minister Simon Harris in Leinster House by Dundalk TD Ruairi O Murchu.

The Sinn Fein TD said he has been working with PAs from O Fiaich Institute of Further Education, Drogheda Institute of Further Education Cavan Institute and Dunshaughlin Community College over the last number of months to try to get better pay and conditions for them.

Speaking in the Dail, Deputy O Murchu said: The Minister and I have had multiple interactions regarding personal assistants. They are doing spectacular work to facilitate students with extra needs but they have a contract that does not work.

They have to apply for jobseeker payments (outside of term time), with all of the difficulties that causes. A number of things are required vis-a-vis their pay claim and there is work the Minister can do on an improved payment.

It must be ensured this happens as quickly as possible and a system that works within the further education sector is delivered for those with disabilities.

In response, Minister Harris said: I thank Deputy O Murchu for his question but, more importantly, for genuinely engaging constructively with me on this over a sustained period.

I have found his engagement to be insightful and very useful to my Department. A number of ETBs have employed personal assistants to provide supports to learners under the fund for students with disabilities.

I have been in a number of these, including DIFE, with the Deputy, and my officials have engaged with a variety of stakeholders on the issue, including SOLAS, the trade union FORSA, and Education and Training Boards Ireland.

Indeed, Deputy O Murchu and I had a meeting with a number of personal assistants, which he very kindly convened and which I felt was useful.

He knows my position on this. In budget 2024, I secured an additional 2 million for the fund for students with disabilities and was very clear, on receipt of this, that I wanted my officials to examine the position of personal assistants across the tertiary system, how we can support them in the interim and what further steps can be taken.

I have engaged with my officials consistently on this and the work is ongoing. I am due to meet the group again, along with the Deputy.

We have a date in the diary for him and I to meet the group of personal assistants again shortly and I hope to be in a position to provide an update at that meeting.

Minister Harris said the union FORSA had lodged a formal claim with the ETBs and terms and conditions of service of a member of staff of an ETB may be determined by the board with the necessary ministerial consent.

The minister added: I believe in trying to get to a point where we can bottom out exactly the contract terms and conditions of personal assistants because this would be hugely beneficial to our education system and to the people working in that area.

Deputy O Murchu replied to say: I welcome the additional funding. Hopefully, the pay claim can be dealt with as quickly as possible and beyond that, I hope we can work on the other terms and conditions to deliver for students with disabilities.
The long-term partner of a woman who died is entitled to the widowers pension, even though they were not married nor were in a civil partnership, the Supreme Court has ruled.

John OMeara, and his three children, challenged a High Court decision to uphold the refusal by the Department of Social Protection to grant him the pension.

On Monday, the Supreme Court said that the section of the legislation which led to the exclusion of Mr OMeara from receiving the pension was invalid and unconstitutional as it did not extend to Mr OMeara and his children.

Michelle Batey, Mr OMearas partner of over 20 years, died after she was diagnosed with Covid-19 in January 2021.

An extremely important case in relation to #CohabitingCouples and the upcoming referendum #voteyesyesThis ruling will decide whether Cohabiting Couples with children are recognised as a family in Ireland https://t.co/XSXkWz2fJs  TREOIR (@TREOIR) January 22, 2024

Mr OMeara claimed the Widowers Contributory Pension but was refused on the grounds that he was not the widower or surviving civil partner of Ms Batey, as was required by a section of the 2005 Act.

Mr OMeara and their children, claimed that sections of the Social Welfare Consolidation (WCP) Act was discriminatory.

It was claimed that the family were excluded from receiving the pension as the couple did not marry nor had they entered a civil partnership.

Mr OMeara and his three minor children challenged the constitutionality of the legislation, however it was dismissed by Mr Justice Mark Heslin last year.

But on Monday, the seven-judge Supreme Court unanimously overturned the decision, saying that the section 124 of legislation was invalid, having regard to Article 40.1 of the Constitution of Ireland, which states that all citizens should be equal before the law.

The Chief Justice Donal ODonnell said that the provision is a contributory social welfare benefit addressed to a loss giving rise to a recognised need for support, where that loss, both emotional and financial, is not in any way different whether the survivor is married or not.

Justice ODonnell added: Furthermore, WCP is increased when there are dependent children which recognises the survivor may not just be a spouse (or civil partner) but is also a parent and the survivor will have additional costs and expenses associated with maintaining any dependent children.

The Constitution as interpreted recognises the rights of all children irrespective of the status of their parents. Nor is there any difference in the duties and obligations which parents, married or unmarried, owe to their dependent children.

He said the distinction made between the children of a surviving spouse and the children of a surviving partner of a non-martial relationship was arbitrary and capricious.

Justice Seamus Woulfe said: There is no rational connection between the legitimate aim of promoting and encouraging marriage and civil partnership and the means employed in the 2005 Act, which involves denying the appellants the benefit of the PRSI contributions paid by both the first appellant and by (Michelle Batey), thereby adversely impacting upon the children.

While couples may have a choice whether or not to marry, children cannot make the choice between marriage and cohabitation.

Justice Woulfe and Mr Justice Gerard Hogan said that previous case law which found that the family referred to in Article 41 is limited to family based on marriage is wrong.

They said that the case and subsequent case law accepting and endorsing it should be overruled, and the appellants were a family for the purposes of Article 41.

Justice Hogan held that the decision was plainly wrong and totally unsatisfactory at almost every level, and it was based on an incomplete interpretation of the text of the relevant constitutional provisions.

Following the judgment, Mr OMeara said: Im delighted. Its been an amazing morning and to get the same kind of acceptance as any other family, it means a lot as well.

It means were being treated as equals and as a family, which is far more important.

Mr OMeara said that he and his late partner had intended to marry but were unable to.

There were so many complications ahead of us. Covid came along and put the final straw in that one, he told RTEs News At One.

The intent was there, but getting there that was the hard part.
Hong Kong: CJ upbeat on foreign judges

Chief Justice Andrew Cheung today gave an upbeat assessment on the recruitment of suitable retired judges from other jurisdictions to serve in Hong Kong, following a successful experience last year.



Addressing media questions about finding foreign judges for the Court of Final Appeal (CFA), the chief justice said Mr Justice Patrick Keane, an Australia justice who was appointed a CFA Non-Permanent Judge last year, has been well-satisfied with his experience in Hong Kong.



The views of foreign countries, particularly western countries, regarding the state of the rule of law in Hong Kong, are of course of some importance to people living in those countries, particularly potential judges or retired judges who might be invited to join our Court of Final Appeal as foreign judges, but I am very happy to say that, take last year as an example, we were very happy and pleased to be able to appoint a new Non-Permanent Judge from Australia.



Mr Justice Patrick Keane, before his retirement last year, sat on the highest court in Australia.



He joined our Court of Final Appeal last year and he sat in several appeals heard last year. From my interaction with him, he is very satisfied with the experience.



Now we are continuing with our efforts to recruit suitable retired judges from other jurisdictions to join our court here in Hong Kong.

This story has been published on: 2024-01-22. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Sheep breeding cooperatives boost incomes of Xizang herders

Xinhua) 16:16, January 22, 2024

LHASA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- As sunshine graces the foot of the snow-covered mountains surrounding Kamba County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, villagers from a local sheep breeding cooperative crack their herding whips to guide thousands of sheep out of their pen.

The county, sitting at an average altitude of more than 4,300 meters, registers an annual average temperature of only 1.5 degrees Celsius. Boasting a unique geographical environment, the county is well-known for its Kamba sheep in Xizang and the villagers here mainly rely on herding for a living.

In an effort to establish standardized herding practices, sci-tech commissioners have been dispatched to this county. Today, all sheep in Kamba have ear tags that allow for the tracing of their growth, contributing to a continuous increase in their numbers.

Lhapa Tsering, a member of the sheep breeding cooperative, was once a successful herder but now runs a restaurant here.

"I was finding it difficult to balance family life and herding before the cooperative was established in March 2019," he said. The increasing number of sheep in his family demanded more time, while his aging parents needed more care.

In the past, when confronted with such a dilemma, villagers like Lhapa Tsering had no choice but to sell some sheep or ask their school-aged children to give up their studies and return home to herd the sheep.

However, villagers today have gained a new option, thanks to the sheep breeding cooperative. Lhapa Tsering was among the first to join the cooperative, though many villagers were initially skeptical of it.

They doubted if others could care for their family sheep as well as they could, recalled Phurbu Tsering, head of the cooperative. "After over 30 meetings, we finally managed to convince most of them to join the cooperative."

The cooperative only requires over 20 herders to take care of all the sheep, with the count reaching thousands.

"I had to herd sheep for my family and did not have the opportunity to attend school properly when I was a child," said Phurbu Tsering. Children in the county can now fully focus on their studies, and villagers with spare time have started exploring other income opportunities.

Before 2019, only three villagers had driver's licenses, whereas today almost every household has at least one driver now. More than 70 villagers now work in other places, bringing an increase in per capita annual income of nearly 20,000 yuan (about 2,813 U.S. dollars).

The modern production and management of the cooperative has also helped to expand sales channels. Through online channels and contracts for bulk orders, the cooperative sold over 10,000 Kamba sheep in 2023, generating a total income of over 5 million yuan. Over 2 million yuan and 1,000 sheep were distributed to members as dividends the same year.

By the end of 2023, Kamba County had become home to 27 sheep breeding cooperatives. The per capita disposable income of rural residents in the county was expected to exceed 19,000 yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 10 percent.

All the 146 households in Lhapa Tsering's village have joined the cooperative. He runs a restaurant near his home and continues to enjoy dividends from the cooperative. Today, his family's annual income is about 200,000 yuan.

"My father also works for the cooperative, and my son as well as other children in the county can enjoy their happy winter holidays," Lhapa Tsering said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
DOUGLAS Community School is set to mark its 50th anniversary this week, and principal Pat Barry shared the history of the school with The Echo ahead of their planned celebrations.

He explained that the all-boys school was originally under the patronage of the Christian Brothers, all subjects were taught through Irish and it was known as Colaiste Mhuire.

In 1974, the Christian Brothers numbers were declining slightly, and they were needed for other work, like to go on mission work to Africa, so they handed management of the school over to a board of management.

He added that down through the years, there have been five principals: Sean O Faolain, Padraig O Riordain, Bernard Horgan, Jim Long, and current principal - himself - Pat Barry.

There have been four deputy principals: John L. O' Sullivan, John O Connell, Jim Long, and Chris Hickey, the current deputy.

Douglas Community School is unique in that there are 97 community schools in Ireland, but only two of them are single sex, our all-boys school and an all-girls school in Cellbridge," Mr Barry continued.

One of main reasons that the school was set up were to provide a because broad curriculum choice and no selection, and those two ideals are still a strong part of the school today.

Its a very inclusive school, we welcome everybody, and have a broad curriculum, he said, explain that they offer 17 optional subjects, well above average.

The school currently has 555 pupils, and has seen an increase just shy of 10% in the last five years.

Douglas Community School principal Pat Barry

This includes 12 students with autism, who are accommodated in two new ASD classrooms that were just opened in 2023, in line with the schools all-inclusive nature.

On Friday January 26, the school will be hosting a celebration of the last five decades, which will be attended by Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Lord Mayor of Cork City councillor Kieran McCarthy, and Ministers Michael McGrath and Simon Coveney.

Also in attendance will be past principals, deputies and board of management members, as well as principals from other schools, with Mr Barry saying they are expecting 250-300 people on the day.

They have compiled a magazine to give out on the day of the celebration with testimonials from past pupils in all walks of life who made contact with the school recently to update them on the many different paths their lives had taken after leaving Douglas Community School.

Mr Barry concluded: Im very proud to be principal of the school, I am in an honoured and privileged position great to be able to carry on tradition of principals before me of providing a very high standard of education, and Im proud to be able to lead a team of wonderfully dedicated teachers.

We would be recognised as an academic school.

"Last year we had three students get 625 points and three offered scholarships to UCC, and this tradition is ongoing.
CONCERNS about a delay in the delivery of homes as part of a phased housing regeneration project on Cork Citys northside have been raised by local representatives who described the development site as an eyesore.

A protest was held on Saturday on Kilmore Rd Lower at the site of Phase 2C of the Cork City Northwest Quarter Regeneration (CNWQR) Masterplan where 24 homes are to be delivered. Construction began in 2019 but later halted, and the project is currently the subject of a complex contractual dispute which Cork City Council has said it is addressing with the contractor.

Sinn Fein Cork North Central TD Thomas Gould attended the protest and said: If this was anywhere else, this would not be acceptable. If this was happening in another part of the city, there would be uproar.

The protest was attended by Sinn Fein and Socialist Party representatives who raised concerns both about the delay in the delivery of the homes and the condition the unfinished houses have been left in, some of which are exposed to the elements.

Mr Gould added: Its not good enough. People have to live here in this area and look at this every day. This road is on the 202 bus route and this is what people are passing by each day.

I worry that we will be here in 10 years and that these unfinished houses [that have been left open to the elements] would have to be retrofitted. So the question now is are they even viable at this stage? Its a shame.

Some of the houses here are nearly finished. Even if those were finished and housed 10 or 12 people. We just want it done and dusted as quickly as possible. The foundation is there, the basics are done.

Sinn Fein councillor Mick Nugent said: Obviously, there is an issue here and we felt that we had to take the step to highlight it because we are being continually asked by constituents and local people what is happening with it.

The protest was about highlighting an unfinished, stalled housing development.

I have attended meetings of the regeneration committee now for about 11 years so I feel personally invested in the scheme and I feel, overall, it is very positive for the area.

It is an eyesore which is also slowing up an element of the regeneration scheme. There should be people living in these homes now so hopefully there will be a resolution in the near future.

Socialist Party councillor Brian McCarthy said: At the best of times this would be a disgrace but this isnt the best of times, this is in the middle of a housing crisis.

Families should already be living here. The council wont give any information about what is going on here. I and other councillors on the housing committee have tried to get information and we have been stonewalled.

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: The construction site on Kilmore Road, Knocknaheeny forms part of the City Northwest Quarter Regeneration Programme, and part of Cork City Councils wider social housing delivery programme.

The project is, however, the subject of a complex contractual dispute which Cork City Council is addressing with the main building contractor.

Cork City Council is treating this with the utmost priority and is seeking to progress a prompt solution to this matter with a view to the earliest possible delivery of more quality homes at this location.

As the project is subject to legal and commercial privilege due to the contractual dispute, further detail cannot be provided at this present time.
THE voice of business in Cork, Cork Chamber, has published its latest Economic Trends, which sees members share their experiences of the most recent business quarter and their outlook for 2024.

In response to skills availability posing a significant threat to business growth, the survey also asked about skills gaps breakdowns.

The survey, supported by PTSB, found that 80% of respondents expressed confidence in the Irish economy, and 81% said net profit had either increased or stayed the same in Q4, 2023.

However, 64% of respondents expect skills shortages to continue this year and 57% anticipate skills shortages will be most acute at mid-management level.

Ronan Murray, president of Cork Chamber, explained, The survey found that businesses are contending with skills gaps in various sectors and professions, a trend not surprising given the economy is at near full employment.

Particularly noteworthy are the acute skills gaps identified in science, engineering, and technology professions - many companies are proactively addressing this challenge by implementing training programmes and collaborating with educational institutions, said Mr Murray.

Auriol Kelly, business banking manager at PTSB, added: It is encouraging to see that despite the challenges in relation to skills shortage, the Cork business community has confidence in the Irish economy for Q1, 2024, and a clear intention to grow.

Mr Murray concluded, By focusing on upskilling, digitalisation, and strategic collaborations, companies are positioning themselves for resilience in the face of evolving workforce dynamics and an economy at full employment, where Cork is competing on a global stage for talent.

It is important Cork maintains its competitive edge needed to attract and retain highly skilled talent.
The chief suspect in the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Ian Bailey, has been included alongside others who passed away recently in a vote of condolences passed at todays meeting of Cork County Council.

The name of Ian Bailey, who died on Sunday after he collapsed on Barrack Street in Bantry after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest, was suggested by Independent councillor Marcia Dalton and her proposal was also supported by fellow Independent councillor Frank Roche.

Ms Dalton said that she thought it appropriate that the Chamber would remark on the passing of Ian Bailey.

All I know about the tragic case of Sophie Toscan du Plantier is what was reported in various media but I do know it was a flagship tragedy of my youth and I also know that one of the fundamental principles of criminal law and constitutional guarantee is that every person accused of a criminal offence is innocent until proven guilty even if theyre charged, she said.

There was never enough evidence to prove Ian Baileys guilt in the murder of Sophie yet he lived 30 years of his life under that shadow of guilt.

The State handed his files to the French authorities where he was convicted of the murder in his absence.

The Irish authorities would not enable his extradition and they committed to another review of the 1996 tragedy  we obviously have no idea whos responsible for the heinous murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier but should there be any chance that our State caused this man to live out 30 years of his life under the shadow of suspicion, then I think it appropriate that we recognise that this too was a terrible tragedy.

It is the normal procedure at Cork Council meetings for councillors to suggest names to be added to a vote of condolence which is routinely not actually voted upon. Customarily those who are named in a vote of condolences are former councillors, council workers, relatives of council workers and other notable people who have passed away since the last meeting.

Among those included in the vote of condolence at todays meeting was a former Government minister, Tom Hussey, who died at the weekend, and Kitty Jeffery of Glenville who was Irelands oldest woman when she passed away last week at the age of 109.
IAN Baileys solicitor expressed doubt about whether the murder suspects name will ever be cleared following his sudden death last Sunday.

Frank Buttimer was speaking on RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland today, a day after Mr Bailey collapsed in Bantry from a suspected heart attack. He had been suffering from poor health that led to a number of hospitalisations before the fatal incident.

The years leading up to that had been steeped in controversy due to his suspected involvement in the Sophie Toscan du Plantier case.

It comes 27 years after Ms Du Plantiers body was discovered outside her holiday home in Toormore on the outskirts of Schull in West Cork.

Bailey was sentenced in absentia to 25 years in jail by a French court in 2019 for the murder which dates back to 1996.

Mr Buttimer described the UCC law graduate as a complicated individual.

He described their first encounter in an interview on RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland.

He came into my office. At that point of time he was the principal suspect in relation to the crime. He had heard of me in some other context and just came in and spoke to me. He had his own solicitor at the time.

"I met him and spoke to him and my immediate reaction was that he was in no way involved in this particular crime. I did say to him that if he was ever prosecuted I would represent him. That transpired never to be necessary.

He acknowledged Mr Baileys interest in the limelight. Mr Buttimer admitted he found Ian Baileys reaction to the attention frustrating at times.

The whole perception of Ian Bailey was generated by himself in the manner in which he spoke about his own case and his own circumstances, he said. It really didnt help him. The whole idea of his status was a creation to ensure that somebody was identified as the offender in this awful case.

"It self-perpetuated the state of affairs. Thats what I would say about the whole thing. I have to confess that I found some of the stuff going on a little bit frustrating.

"He brought a lot of the attention on himself but all of that was because it was his method of reacting to what had been done to him. Different people react in different ways to circumstances. The circumstances which he found himself in were very challenging for him.

"It was really hard to process what was going on. It turned into a spiral of mental problems that he had with regard to what had been done to him and his method of reaction. Sometimes he became proactive instead of reactive. The proactive element I found difficult but I always understood it.

The solicitor cast doubt over whether the case will ever be solved.

The reality is that he always wanted that to happen but he died before it ever would have happened. I suppose theres a possibility, like with anything else in life, but with the passage of time it is very hard to see that somebody will be identified and prosecuted.
A LARGE crowd gathered on Monday night outside the former Ennismore Retreat Centre in Cork city after a Cork TD said he had received confirmation that discussions about using the facility as an accommodation centre for refugees were at advanced stages.

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould has received correspondence from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth which states that UCTAT is responding to an offer of accommodation made in respect of this property."

The correspondence adds: "Discussions with the provider are at an advanced stage, and a full assessment of the property is currently taking place.

The Cork City Council have been consulted on the suitability of this accommodation. Should it be deemed suitable for accommodation of BOTPs, the Community Engagement Team will provide detailed information in direct engagements with elected representatives in advance.

Rumours 'completely false'

Last week, Cork City Council had told The Echo: the Asset Management Company responsible for the operation of the Ennismore Retreat Centre has confirmed to the City Council that rumours surrounding [sic] are completely false.

Speaking to The Echo, Deputy Gould said: Last week, we saw Cork City Council deny rumours that Ennismore was to be used to provide accommodation to refugees.

I now have an email from the Department confirming that this site is at advanced stages to be used for Ukrainians seeking temporary protection and that Cork City Council have been consulted about it.

"The community need to know what the answer is here."

Clarity

We need urgent clarity and I am calling on the Minister, Roderic OGorman, to come to Cork to meet with the Council, with councillors and most importantly with the community and give people the answers they deserve," he said.

This situation is a shocking indictment of the governments complete failure to manage the constraints in accommodation for those seeking protection. They are causing confusion and anger in local communities by failing to give clear, correct information when asked.

The local community are strong and have always been welcoming. Sowing division and creating mistrust does nothing for the community and does nothing for the vulnerable people who may be moving into Ennismore.

The blame for any anger lies at the feet of the government who have once again shown that they do not have communities, or those seeking protection in this state, at the heart of their approach.

He told The Echo, I was contacted by residents about it, then I saw on local media that the council had said there was no truth to the rumour, then I get back a response confirming that it was being used.

This is what leads to all the confusion, and this is a big part of the problem, he said, adding its important that people know whats happening.

As a local representative thats my job, Im just trying to find out information, Deputy Gould said.

The people of Mayfield are great people, all theyre looking to know is whats happening, and that theyre kept informed.

The Echo has reached out to Cork City Council and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for comment.
A protest began in the city tonight following confirmation that the site is being considered as accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould received confirmation that the Ukraine Crisis Temporary Accommodation Team is at advanced stages of discussions around using the former Ennismore Retreat Centre to house refugees.

Concerned

There were more than 100 people in attendance tonight, and some of those there said that they were concerned for the safety of their children, and suggested that the building should be used to house Irish homeless people, saying:

We dont know who these people moving in here are, we should be looking after our own homeless first.

They told The Echo were not racist  just concerned parents, and, we dont have a problem with immigrants, the problem is with the Government.

One local woman shared that she has taken in her own sister who was homeless due to there being nowhere else to go, and called for more infrastructure before Ireland takes in people of other nationalities.

Strain on resources

One young man said that he was mixed race himself, and didnt have a problem with any race, but that there is a huge strain on resources, explaining that his pregnant wife couldnt get a GP appointment recently and had to go to the hospital instead.

Help the Irish, then we can help the rest, he said.

Attendees at the protest included anti-migrant protestor Derek Blighe, who was one of a number of people who shared video from the event.

This afternoon, Mr Gould shared an email with The Echo from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth which said: UCTAT is responding to an offer of accommodation made in respect of this property. Discussions with the provider are at an advanced stage, and a full assessment of the property is currently taking place.

The Cork City Council have been consulted on the suitability of this accommodation. Should it be deemed suitable for accommodation of BOTPs, the Community Engagement Team will provide detailed information in direct engagements with elected representatives in advance.

A spokesperson for Cork City Council told The Echo on January 17, the asset management company responsible for the operation of the Ennismore Retreat Centre has confirmed to the City Council that rumours surrounding it are completely false.

Mr Gould said: Last week, we saw Cork City Council deny rumours that Ennismore was to be used to provide accommodation to refugees.

I now have an email from the department confirming that this site is at advanced stages to be used for Ukrainians seeking temporary protection and that Cork City Council have been consulted about it.

So we have Government councillors saying one thing very strongly and a Government minister saying another. The community need to know what the answer is here.

Clarity

We need urgent clarity and I am calling on the minister, Roderic OGorman, to come to Cork to meet with the council, councillors and most importantly with the community and give people the answers they deserve.

This situation is a shocking indictment of the Governments complete failure to manage the constraints in accommodation for those seeking protection. They are causing confusion and anger in local communities by failing to give clear, correct information when asked.

I was contacted by residents about it, then I saw on local media that the council had said there was no truth to the rumour, then I get back a response confirming that it was being used.

This is what leads to all the confusion, and this is a big part of the problem.

A Department of Integration spokesperson confirmed to The Echo: The Department is responding to an offer of accommodation made in respect of this property. Discussions with the provider are at an advanced stage, and a full assessment of the property is currently taking place.
FRINGES are very much in fashion right now, from box bobs (sleek and short) to curtain bangs (sweeping and soft).

But if youre looking for a classic, trend-defying fringe, Claudia Winkleman is the ultimate inspiration.

The presenter - who is back on screens this month with the return of hit BBC1 series The Traitors - has had her trademark, face-framing tresses for around 20 years, and recommends that everyone try the bold bangs look at least once.

Absolutely do it, she told PA Media in 2021. But heres the thing. If youre doing it, dont be apologetic. A little fringe? No. Thats only fine if youre three years old. The rest of us? Heavy.

Hairdressers are equally as enthusiastic about the transformative power of a fringe.

Go for it! says celebrity hairstylist and Bristows ambassador, Desmond Grundy.

Fringes suit everyone, they bring something to all face shapes and hair types, and can take years off you as they cover lines and ageing on the forehead.

However, you might want to tailor the length or style of your bangs to suit your face shape, hair type and how much effort youre prepared to make on a daily basis.

These are the things you should consider before you go in for the chop...

Face shape

Dont be fooled into thinking I dont suit a fringe - you just need to find the right style for your face shape.

A full fringe like Claudias is a great option for those with shorter face shapes as it will elongate the face, says Stephane Ferreira, hair stylist and colour specialist at Live True London.

For other face shapes, a full fringe can still be a great option, but I advise playing around with the thickness and shape to call attention to different parts of the face.

A choppier style might be best for rounder face shapes, he adds: A fringe as full as Claudias with rounded edges like hers may be too heavy-looking, but it could be a good option to disguise a high forehead.

A fringe can also help soften the proportions of the face, Grundy explains: It can be cut higher to create the illusion of a higher forehead, bring a softness to square face shapes and create a rounder illusion for narrow faces.

Hair type

Claudias hair is quite thick, allowing her fringe to look full and voluminous, says Ferreira.

Hairdresser cutting a fringe

For curly hair, this exact look might be more difficult to maintain as youll have to straighten your hair every day to get Claudias sleek look. For curls, I recommend embracing your natural texture with a curly fringe.

If your hair is on the finer side, a thick fringe might not be feasible, he says: I would advise balancing the amount of hair used for the fringe correctly to avoid it looking sparse elsewhere.

Maintenance

Fringes are notoriously hard to maintain, and you will likely have to style at least your fringe every day, even if you leave the rest of your hair, Ferreira says.

You might also need to invest in new styling products and learn new techniques to keep your fringe in place.

Plus, youll need regular trims - generally every two to three weeks - to keep your locks out of your eyes, although many hairdressers offer this service for free after youve had your initial haircut.

However, there are plenty of additional fringe benefits.

Yes, a fringe requires some maintenance, but it also makes you look more put together with minimum effort and create an immediate look, Grundy says.

Eyebrows dont need as much maintenance with a fringe, and it can really accentuate the eyes as it brings them into direct focus - thats why Claudias look works so well with her dark fringe and dark eye make-up.

Styling

The level of fringe styling and daily maintenance will depend on your hair type.

For naturally straight hair, one blow dry brush is all thats needed to keep the fringe down and straight, Grundy says.

Naturally wavy hair will benefit from a light hold hair spray to keep the fringe in place and behaving, whilst maintaining some natural movement.

Ferreira recommends separating straight or wavy hair into sections before blow-drying, keeping your fringe clipped out of the way.

Dry and style the main body of your hair as desired, then once your hair is dry, move on to the fringe, applying more water if it has dried out in the meantime, he says.

Be sure to blow dry directly down, and brush through as you do so, to create that smooth look.

For curly or coily locks, use a diffuser or allow to air dry, Grundy says: You want to leave it as natural as possible so as not to disrupt the natural shape of the hair. Some light teasing with the fingers and spraying with a light hold spray is the best approach.

No matter your hair type, theres one essential product you must stock up on if youre getting bangs.

Dry shampoo is your fringes best friend as it can become oily quicker than the rest of your hair, as it picks up oils from contact with your skin, Grundy says.

A quick spritz can freshen up the fringe in an instant, so you can go longer between hair washes and prolong your fringe shape without rewashing and styling.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

People walk past a drainage channel blocked with bottles and styrofoam food containers along Adeniji Adele on Lagos-Island in Lagos, Nigeria on Aug. 24, 2020. Olukayode Jaiyeola / NurPhoto via Getty Images

Lagos State, which includes Nigerias most populous city of 15.4 million, has announced a ban on single-use plastics and styrofoam in order to reduce the plastic pollution that chokes the region.

The ban would be immediate, according to a statement from the state government, but enforcement and implementation would not be so straightforward, environmental experts said, as AFP reported.

Following the menace which single-use plastics especially non-biodegradable Styrofoam are causing on the environment, the Lagos State government through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources is hereby announcing a ban on the usage and distribution of Styrofoam and other single-use plastics in the State with immediate effect, Tokunbo Wahab, the states environment and water resources commissioner, said on social media.

Styrofoam is widely used in food service and delivery by markets and street vendors in Lagos, but it and other packaging build up in the areas drains and roads, reported AFP.

The new measure received praise from some, while others wondered what alternatives there would be for merchants and manufacturers.

Our state cannot be held hostage to the economic interests of a few wealthy business owners compared to the millions of Lagosians suffering the consequences of indiscriminate dumping of single use plastics and other types of waste, Wahab said, as Business Day reported.

Climate and Ecological Protection Initiative co-founder Folawemi Umunna said correct implementation of the ban was key.

This is wonderful news for the environment on different levels and if this is effectively executed, capable of reducing a substantial amount of CO2 emissions in tonnes in the Lagos State perimeter, Umunna said, as reported by AFP.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, each year the planets rivers, lakes and oceans are polluted with 21 to 25 million tons of plastic trash.

Other African countries like Tanzania, Botswana, Mali, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Malawi, Cameroon, Morocco, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana and South Africa have either banned single-use plastics or placed a high tax on them, Times of India said.

Tanzania prohibits travelers from bringing plastic bags of any thickness into the country. The exception is bags that zip shut used to carry toiletries, as long as they are not disposed of there. Visitors to Tanzania are encouraged to use cloth bags.

The convenience of single use plastic comes at a huge cost to the society. We must all make small sacrifices for our collective well-being, Wahab said, as Business Day reported.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jan. 22, 2024

CONTACT

Leha Byrd

ECSU Communications and Marketing

Email or 252-335-8745

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (Jan. 22, 2024)  Recruiters and representatives from Republic Airways will be present at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) Wednesday, Jan. 24, at noon to offer information to students about aviation opportunities within their organization. The event will be in the universitys STEM Complex, room 104.

Information will be available about routes to careers as an RJet Cadet or First Officer with the organization. Viking alumnus and Republic Airways pilot, Ron Thompson 23, will be on hand to help with recruitment efforts.

ECSU has a partnership with Republic Airways through its RJet Cadet Program that allows ECSU graduates to transition to Republic Airways as first officers. In September, Republic Airways contributed $15,000 to ECSU to support scholarships and expenses, including check ride and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examination costs for students in the Aviation Sciences program. ECSU offers the only four-year Aviation Science degree program in North Carolina with concentrations in flight education, aviation management, and professional aeronautics.

____________________________________________________________

Elizabeth City State University provides students with a high-quality, affordable education as one of North Carolinas leading four-year public institutions that is part of the University of North Carolina System. ECSU develops leaders who are courageous, resilient, and empowered through excellent student-centered, experiential learning. We offer baccalaureate, professional, and masters degrees across a wide variety of interests. Excellence is the standard at Elizabeth City State University  success is our legacy. Come to Discover. Leave to Conquer. Visit www.ecsu.edu.
(Photo: REUTERS / Gleb Garanich)A woman reacts as she stands near the entrance to a burnt trade union building, the site of recent street battles between pro-Russian and pro-Ukrainian supporters, in the Black Sea port of Odessa May 4, 2014.

KRAMATORSK/ODESSA, Ukraine, May 6 (Reuters) - Both sides have been burying their dead as Ukraine slides further towards war, with supporters of Russia and of a united Ukraine accusing each other of tearing the country apart.

It was generally quieter on Tuesday than past days in most of eastern and southern Ukraine, but violence flared at dusk in the eastern port of Mariupol, where a spokesman for pro-Moscow militants told Russia's Itar-Tass news agency that one person was killed and three wounded in an attack on a checkpoint.

In Kramatorsk, a separatist-held town in the east that saw an advance by Ukrainian troops at the weekend, the coffin of 21-year-old nurse Yulia Izotova was carried through streets stilled by barricades of tyres and tree trunks on Monday. Scattered red carnations traced the route.

At the Holy Trinity Church, seven priests led mourners in prayer for a woman killed by large-calibre bullets, which the townsfolk believe were fired by Ukrainian troops.

"They shoot at us. Why? Because we don't want to live with fascists?" asked 58-year-old passport photographer Sergei Fominsky, standing with his wife among the mourners. "We're not slaves. We kneel to no one."

In Odessa, a previously peaceful, multiethnic Black Sea port where more than 40 people were killed on Friday in the worst day of violence since a February revolt toppled Ukraine's pro-Russian president, pall-bearers carried Andrey Biryukov's open casket from a van to the street corner where he was shot.

A pro-Ukrainian activist, Biryukov, 35, was killed during a day that began with hundreds of pro-Russian sympathisers armed with axes, chains and guns attacking a Ukrainian march, and ended later that night with the pro-Russians barricaded inside a building that was set on fire, killing dozens.

A small crowd of about 50 people stood around the body, covering it with carnations and roses. A Ukrainian flag fluttered in the wind, and a patriotic song about dead heroes was played from a sound system.

Relatives wept and a young woman fell on her knees crying loudly. The corner where the man died was decorated with flowers and small Ukrainian flags.

"The government has failed to protect its own people. The police have failed miserably," said Nikita, a grizzled 56-year-old with a Ukrainian yellow-and-blue arm-band.

Sergei, in his 40s, who also came to mourn, said violence "was imported to Odessa".

"We were proud of Odessa as a unique place where people used to live in peace, regardless of their beliefs and religion and race," he said. "Now this is all gone."

In Mariupol, the main port for the eastern coal and steel region of the Donbass, pro-Moscow militants told Russian news agencies that one of their checkpoints on the outskirts was attacked late on Tuesday - by Ukrainian forces or by pro-Kiev militia - and they were preparing to repel further assaults.

Local website 0629.com.ua posted pictures of tyres blazing outside the city council building and thick smoke pouring over the town centre. Some streets were barricaded by buses.

The surge in violence has changed the tone of international diplomacy, with even cautious European states speaking increasingly of the likelihood of war in a country of around 45 million people the size of France.

"The bloody pictures from Odessa have shown us that we are just a few steps away from a military confrontation," German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said in interviews published in four European newspapers.

'CRIMEA PLAYBOOK'

The next few days could prove decisive: separatists in the Donbass region say they will hold a referendum on secession on Sunday, similar to the one that preceded Russia's annexation of Crimea in March.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry denounced any attempt at a vote as "bogus," saying: "We flatly reject this illegal effort to further divide Ukraine.

"This is really the Crimea playbook all over again, and no civilized nation is going to recognise the results of such a bogus effort," he said in a news conference with EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton.

He again cautioned Moscow that Washington would impose more powerful sanctions designed to hurt Russia's economy if it tried to disrupt Ukraine's presidential election set for May 25.

Kerry suggested, however, that moving too soon on tougher sanctions before diplomatic efforts have been fully explored could backfire. He said he would meet ministers in Europe next week to discuss the next steps on Ukraine.

Western concern so far has not been matched by any serious action that might dissuade Russian President Vladimir Putin. The United States and the European Union have imposed limited sanctions on lists of individual Russians and small companies, but have held back from measures designed to hurt Russia's economy broadly.

Nonetheless, a senior Finance Ministry official in Moscow said Russian GDP could shrink again this quarter.

NATO has made clear it will not fight to protect Ukraine, instead beefing up defences of its nearby member states. NATO's top military commander, U.S. Air Force General Philip Breedlove, said on Tuesday the alliance would have to consider permanently stationing troops in parts of Eastern Europe because of the increased tension between Russia and Ukraine.

Breedlove, who said on Monday he did not think Moscow would send troops into eastern Ukraine, stressed the steps that NATO had taken so far were designed to support Eastern members of the alliance.

"We are taking measures that should be very easily discerned as being defensive in nature. This is about assuring our allies, not provoking Russia, and we are communicating that at every level," he said in Ottawa.

PRESSING THE OFFENSIVE

Two days before the separatists' referendum is Friday's annual Victory Day holiday celebrating the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany. Moscow has been openly comparing the government in Kiev to the Nazis, and Ukrainian officials say they are worried that the day could provoke violence. In Moscow, there will be a massive parade of military hardware through Red Square, a Soviet-era tradition revived by Putin.

The past few days have seen government forces press on with an offensive but make little progress in the east, where separatist rebels have so far held firm at their main outpost in the town of Slaviansk and shot down three Ukrainian helicopters.

Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said on Tuesday more than 30 separatists had been killed in fighting around Slaviansk, but there was no confirmation of such a figure. The rebels, who triggered fighting in the area on Monday by ambushing government troops, said four of their number had been killed.

At roadblocks in the town, some armed fighters have been replaced by civilians, like Alexandra, in her late 20s, who said she leaves her 10-year-old daughter at home each morning, puts a starting pistol in her belt and walks to the barricades. The tactic of putting civilians at the front could make a government offensive more difficult.

"We have two options - to use heavy artillery ... wipe everything out, put the flag up and report that everything has been done. The second option is a gradual blockade, destroying provocateurs and sabotage to prevent injuries among the population. We are carrying out the second scenario," said acting Defence Minister Mykhailo Koval, explaining why the operation had taken so long and achieved so little.

Since a pro-European government took power after the uprising that toppled pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovich, Putin overturned diplomatic convention by declaring Moscow's right to send troops across borders to protect Russian speakers.

Since Crimea's annexation, armed separatists have taken control of most of the Donbass, which accounts for about 15 percent of Ukraine's population and a third of industrial output.

Moscow has tens of thousands of troops massed on Ukraine's eastern frontier. The outbreak of violence in Odessa, hundreds of kilometres away near a Russian-occupied breakaway region of neighbouring Moldova, means the unrest has spread across the breadth of southern and eastern Ukraine.

Western countries say Russian agents are directing the uprising and Moscow is stoking the violence with a campaign of propaganda, broadcast into Ukraine on Russian state channels, that depicts the government in Kiev as "fascists".

"Russia sometimes sounds as if it's refighting WW2. Fascism all over the place. Enemies everywhere. Ghosts of history mobilised," tweeted Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt.
(Photo:  Peter Kenny)An officer in the Ukraine armed forces briefs journalists in October 2014 in Kiev after Russia annexed Crimea, which was part of Ukraine that year.

Estonia will not renew the residence permit of Metropolitan Eugene of the Estonian Orthodox Church linked to the Russian Orthodox Church, saying he is a threat to national security.

Estonia told Valeri Reshetnikov, who heads the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate as Metropolitan Eugene, he must leave the Baltic country which shares a border with Russia and was once part of the Soviet Union.

The Russian Orthodox representative must leave Estonia by Feb. 6, Estonian public broadcaster ERR reported Feb. 11, citing the country's Police and Boder Guard spokesperson.

The Estonian government had repeatedly asked Reshetnikov to "stop vindicating the Kremlin regime and Russia's military actions in his statements" but he failed to do this, the spokesperson said.

Reshetnikov's public statements as the representative of the Moscow Patriarchate were found to be in support of Russia, which is waging an all-out war against Estonia's ally Ukraine, Politico reported on Jan. 18.

"Representatives of the Ministry of the Interior have repeatedly met with Reshetnikov to explain to him that he needs to stop vindicating the Kremlin regime and Russia's military actions in his statements," said Indrek Aru, the spokesperson of Estonia's border guard.

"Reshetnikov has not altered his conduct, which is found to be incompatible with Estonia's values and legal environment. That is why Reshetnikov's actions pose a threat to security," he noted.

"The actions of both the Moscow patriarch and Metropolitan Eugene have aided Russia's security policy in Estonia," Aru said, explaining that the Estonian parliament had declared Russia to be a terrorist state.

Reshetnikov has held a fixed-term residence permit in Estonia for four years. The last time his short-term permit was renewed was two years ago, immediately before the start of Russia's full aggression in Ukraine, according to ERR.

Estonia and its Baltic neighbors Latvia and Lithuania are among the staunchest supporters of Ukraine as it resists Russia's invasion.

All three Baltic states were ruled by Moscow for decades during the Soviet era and today are members of NATO and the European Union, which Ukraine also seeks to join, Reuters news agency reported.

Estonia s largely secular, but the Orthodox Church, favored by the country's sizeable ethnic Russian minority, is the most widespread religion, with 16 percent of the population affiliated with it.

Ethnic Russians make up nearly a quarter of Estonia's 1.3 million-strong population, the country's 2021 census showed.

The Lutheran Church, which is supported by many Estonians, is in second place, with eight percent of the population affiliated.
(Photo: Ecumenical News / Peter Kenny)World Council of Churches general secretary, Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, addresses journalists on November 7, 2013 during a media conference at the WCC 10th Assembly in Busan, South Korea.

The World Council of Churches says it is deeply concerned that the standoff in Ukraine, into which Russian armed forces have entered, puts many innocent lives at risk.

"The World Council of Churches is deeply concerned by the current dangerous developments in Ukraine," Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the WCC said in a statement on Monday.

Leaders of Ukraine's churches joined in a plea to Russian leaders to "abandon the military and other... interference in the internal affairs of Ukraine."

Their pleas came during a rise in tensions inside Ukraine after Russian armed forces entered Crimea over the weekend.

The Ukraine church leaders said that Russian military intervention especially is "a threat not only to our country but to the peace and security of the entire European continent."

The statement was released by the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and signed by its leader, Metropolitan Onufry of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church-Moscow patriarchate, a church that has many Russian speakers.

Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, who has been viewed as being very close to President Vladimir Putin responded to Metropolitan Onufry's plea.

He promised to "do everything possible to persuade those in power that they cannot allow destroying peaceful people in the Ukrainian land so dear to my heart."

The Russian primate said that although the Moscow patriarchate would not take sides in a political dispute, the Orthodox Church would do everything possible to prevent military conflict.

But he said noted, "None of those who live in Ukraine today should feel strangers in their own home, whatever language they may speak.

"Any further polarization of society and growth of violence against civilians cannot be allowed. The whole population should have their rights and liberties guaranteed, including the right of participation in the making of fateful decisions."

RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTER

The day before in Geneva, Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, speaking at the United Nations Human Rights Council, strongly defended his country's deployment of troops to Crimea, saying his country aimed to protect Russians until the political situation in Ukraine became normalized.

"Violence of ultra-nationalists threatens the lives and the regional interests of Russians and the Russian-speaking population," Lavrov told the U.N. meeting. "Instead of a government of unity they have created a government of victors."

For his part, Tveit said "The situation puts many innocent lives in grave jeopardy.

"And like a bitter wind from the Cold War, it risks further undermining the international community's capacity to act now or in the future on the many urgent issues that will require a collective and principled response," he said.

"Out of concern for the lives and security of all people who are or might in the future be affected by the continuing failure to resolve this situation peacefully, I call urgently on all parties to refrain from violence, to commit to dialogue and diplomacy, and to avoid escalation by rash words or actions."

The WCC leaders said the consequences of failing to do so would lead to even more human suffering in Ukraine, and leave a gaping rift in the social and political system of the region and internationally.




Vietnam looks for more access to Indonesia's agricultural products market

Vietnam wants Indonesia to open up greater access to its agricultural products as both countries agree to boost trade and strengthen food security.

Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong had hosted his counterpart, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, for trade-focused talks in Hanoi, Vietnam, this month. During the meeting, Thuong encouraged Jokowi to let more Vietnamese agricultural products enter Indonesia.

"Vietnam asks Indonesia to make it easier for Vietnamese agricultural products  to enter the Indonesian market," Thuong said in his press statement.

The Indonesian leader did not specifically address Vietnamese agricultural products. However, Jokowi said both leaders had agreed on bolstering cooperation on food security, particularly on agriculture and fishery.

"The signing of the memorandum of understanding on fishery marks a huge momentum to spur collaboration and investment in this field," Jokowi said.

Government data shows Indonesia-Vietnam trade totaled $13.3 billion in 2022. The two-way trade gave Indonesia a surplus of $3.7 billion.

Bilateral trade reached $11.7 billion in January-November 2023, registering a $2.1 billion surplus for Indonesia. In 2022, Jokowi and then Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc agreed to work towards achieving $15 billion in bilateral trade by 2028.

- Jakarta Globe
A cyberattack hit Carnegie Mellon University last summer and the attackers breached personal data, according to a disclosure from the school last week. The Pittsburgh-based university known for its top tech and computer science programs said on Friday that the attack impacted 7,300 students, employees, contractors and other affiliates.

"There is no evidence of fraud or inappropriate use of the information from those files," a statement from CMU said. Still, the attackers likely accessed and copied data that included names, social security numbers and birth dates. With help from law enforcement, CMU disabled any access to that copied data, according to the school.

It started on August 25 when unauthorized users accessed CMU's systems. The university says it began recovery processes and an investigation into the incident that included months later in December, while notifications to impacted parties began to go out last week. Impacted parties will receive credit monitoring services to mitigate further damage.

CMU did not respond to a request for comment and further information about the attack by the time of publication.
Pixars 1998 movie, A Bugs Life, brought tiny CGI ants to the worlds largest screens. National Geographics new docu-series, A Real Bugs Life inverts that, turning insects into giants in our homes. The only thing digital about the critters featured in the Disney+ series, though, is the technology filming them. But like its animated counterpart, the show explores the world they live in and their adventures in ways weve never seen before.

With its focus on insects, A Real Bugs Life isnt limited to specific remote habitats. Over the course of the series youll visit arid desert planes, tropical jungle, concrete jungle, a rural farm in the UK and even the humble backyard. But thanks to a series of innovations, we see these worlds from entirely new perspectives. I think that the look and feel of this show, and this is not just me saying it, I don't think that there's anything else that looks like this or has ever looked like this Nathan Small, a self-shooting Producer/Director who worked on the show told Engadget.

National Geographic

The series opens in New York City where we follow the misadventures of an adorable bold jumping spider. While our eight-legged hero begins his journey on a city rooftop, its not long before were down at street level and joined by a cast of intrepid ants, industrious flies and a menacing praying mantis. Some of the shots instantly stand out without you fully knowing why. But Small does.

He explained that macro professionals have long favored 60- or 100mm lenses, which give incredible detail but have a very shallow depth of field (DOF). Which means that there's no context ever, there's no geography, and you're always in this sort of very smushy, blurry world, he said. In the last few years, there have been lots of what are called probe lenses released. The main one, which was a bit of a game changer, is made by a company called Laowa and it's a 24 millimeter he added.

A probe lens looks exactly how youre imagining  more like a vacuum cleaner attachment  but the shots it produces have two key advantages, Small explained. The first one is practical: the 16-inch barrel means you dont need to be as physically close to the bug youre shooting. The second, and the real reason those shots are standing out, is that with a 24mm lens you have a much deeper DOF, leaving much more in focus. You get that geography and you get that setting which gives it a really cartoony and fresh kind of funky look. All Ill say after watching that episode is, a New York all-beef will never seem the same again. Youll also see a fly dining on a burger in excruciating, stomach-churning detail.

Perhaps the most surprising thing about the Laowa lens is that its relatively affordable. At $1,600 its not cheap, but its the same price as a regular (albeit very good) Canon 85mm lens that serious hobbyists might consider.

National Geographic

Small also explained that sometimes techology isn't changing the shot, instead it can improve what happens within it. Not very long ago, all the lights that I was using were your classic film lights, Arri Blondes and all that kind of thing. They're very hot he said. LED lights, they're super bright, but they're cold, so it means we're getting all the light we need without cooking the animal, which obviously no one wants, while letting it act in a natural way he added. Capturing critters trying to escape the heat is far less interesting than watching them do what comes naturally.

But the thing that enabled many of the most cinematic shots in A Real Bugs Life isnt available to buy, at least not off the shelf. I never really touch the camera any more, Small said. I'm doing everything on custom built motion control rigs. I have a robot that I've been working on for the last five years, gradually changing things. Smalls robot is a machine-engineered rig, hewn with the same precision as medical tools  something he says is vital as any shake or wobble at the scale hes working at is hugely magnified.

The robot allows him to work at a distance and monitor via a large display for a better idea of what the things will look like on a TV. Two rails with sliders provide dual axes of movement while a rotating stage and tilt control provide a full range of motion that, put together, opens up shots you could only dream of with a tripod and slider alone. The robots brain uses an eMotimo motion controller and he directs it all with a PlayStation 2 DualShock. After years of updating and refining, the robot can finally deliver the dynamic macro footage we enjoy in the show. Head to the episode set on the British farm if you want to see Small's cinematic robo-shots for yourself.

Some things still require a human though. If you ever wondered how they capture seemingly impossible moments, like a spider spinning a web, the answer is patience. In the show we see an elephant hawk-moth emerging from its chrysalis. I just didn't really sleep for about five days, that's short of it he said. You collect a lot of them so you have options. I had my camera on a big rail and then as soon as I saw one start to twitch and move, I slide the camera along and bang, you're on that one. The final shot in the show lasts barely 10 seconds, but without it the narrative falls apart, such is the life of a wildlife photographer.

National Geographic

If you want to have a go at recording an emerging elephant hawk-moth or bold jumping spider but dont have Disney-level budgets, dont worry. Small says that todays consumer products are already more capable than a lot of pro gear was not that all that long ago. Specifically when it comes to working in low light. Before, you were stuck at like ISO 200, which is a nightmare for macro, because everything is too dark or noisy, he said. [Now] you can shoot at 3200 and still get really clean images. As he mentioned earlier, these higher apertures like f11 or above avoid those smushy backgrounds. He also says that a lot of his kit is put together with SmallRig parts (no relation).

For the camera itself, that will largely depend on what you want to capture. For close-up macro photos (rather than video), Small says the Olympus system is preferred within the industry, thanks mostly to its internal focus stacking/bracketing. In the same way HDR photos blend multiple exposures for more even, natural light, focus stacking does the same but with, well, focus, so you can have your subject and background pin sharp.

More of a bird person? Then Canon seems to be the industry favorite according to Small. Particularly the larger sensor models and RF mount lenses. Canons stellar auto-focus locks onto animals really quickly, and can keep it locked even when the subject is moving (as birds are wont to do). The RF lenses also have a great reputation thanks to their blend of speed and excellent built-in stabilization making them a good option for general wildlife photography too. When not shooting for work, Small uses a Canon EOS 5DS. I think that's a good all round camera that does everything that I need it to. Stills are like my hobby now, which is quite sad, isn't it? Because it's very close to my job.

A Real Bugs Life, narrated by Awkwafina, premieres on Disney+ Jan 24.

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Meta has been fighting upcoming regulations in the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) for months, but no more. The company has announced it will comply with the DMA's stipulation that it can't favor its own services or force users to remain inside its ecosystem. This decision will greatly impact Meta's user experience in the EU, including allowing people to utilize Messenger and Facebook Marketplace without a Facebook account. Meta previously filed an appeal arguing that the two platforms should not be included under the DMA.

Giving in means that Messenger and Facebook Marketplace users in the EU can now use the services and all of their functions through standalone accounts. The only difference for Marketplace is that conversations will occur over email. Along with Facebook Marketplace and Messenger, the European Commission's regulations on Meta include Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Meta ads. For example, users can now keep their Facebook and Instagram accounts separate instead of linking information between the two platforms.

The European Commission initially designated six companies as "gatekeepers" under the DMA: Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, ByteDance, Meta and Microsoft. There are 22 core platform services between them that fall under the law's jurisdiction due to factors like users, revenue and valuation. Qualification also hinged on "if they provide an important gateway between businesses and consumers in relation to core platform services." ByteDance and Apple are among the other companies which have pushed back against the DMA's regulations ahead of its March 2024 enforcement. However, Google (owned by Alphabet) recently announced that users could stop its platforms like YouTube and Chrome from sharing data.
If you love old PC games, but wish they had access to modern graphical flourishes, NVIDIA has you covered. The company just released a beta version of its long-awaited RTX Remix tool. This software is designed especially for modders and can be used to add ray-tracing and AI-upscaled textures to older games.

Remix was built on NVIDIAs Omniverse 3D graphics collaboration platform and allows for end-to-end remastering of just about any DirectX 8 or 9 game. It consists of two basic components. Theres an application for creating new lighting scenarios and one for remastering and adding assets into a scene. The company says that the tool can already be used to fully remaster a game from start to finish, despite it being just a beta.

To that end, the software is available for download right now and NVIDIA hopes modders will experiment with the tool and leave feedback, which will be incorporated into future updates. Its also free, which is always nice.

NVIDIA has released a non-comprehensive list of compatible games, which includes classics like Call of Duty 2, Hitman 2: Silent Assassin, Garry's Mod, Freedom Fighters, Need for Speed Underground 2, and Vampire: The Masquerade  Bloodlines, among others. For more information on compatibility, check out this FAQ.

The software suite has already been used by NVIDIA to create the Portal with RTX remaster, which is a free DLC, and the modder-made Portal: Prelude RTX. Orbifold Studios is also using RTX Remix to develop Half-Life 2 RTX: An RTX Remix Project, which is a community-driven remaster of the iconic title.

Again, this is a free tool, so itll be really fun to see what the modding community cooks up with it. Im personally looking forward to more Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind ray-tracing goodness.

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Monday, January 22, 2024

By Scott Lorenz

Westwind Communications

If you are a serious writer with high aspirations, then youll want to go to a writers conference. Want to meet authors and exchange ideas, tips and techniques? Then sign up for a writers conference today.

A writers conference is a think tank for authors to build on each others ideas and inspire new achievements in their own work. For the cost of lodging and registration, the payoff for attending a writers conference could be tremendous.

Attending a writers conference gives you a chance to pitch your book, learn about the various publishing options and meet book editors, agents and book marketing specialists. If your book is six months or a year from being finished, you can talk to people with valuable input on shaping your book. At a writers conference, youll get all sorts of advice to help you wrap up your project when you return home.

Of course, you will want to prepare for any writers conference you attend by having a plan of what you want to find out and what you will do while there. I suggest you develop an elevator pitch about your book that you can deliver in 30 seconds. Have a one-pager available with your book cover, author headshot, short 50-word synopsis, short bio, website URL, Twitter handle and your contact information. You never know who youll meet so be prepared for that moment!

Here are some upcoming writers conferences in 2023:

January 13-20, 2024: Writers in Paradise Conference (St. Petersburg, FL). Located on the beautiful waterfront campus of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, this writers conference features professional writers at the top of their form spending quality time with motivated and talented participants seeking an intimate, unhurried climate for learningin paradise. https://www.writersinparadise.com/

January 19-20, 2024: Roanoke Regional Writers Conference 2023 (Roanoke, VA). Welcome! Its my extreme honor to invite you to the 14th Annual Roanoke Regional Writers Conference! This is the perfect event to learn, grow, and connect with other writers in the area. RRWC23 takes place on January 20-21, 2023, at Hollins University in Roanoke. The snow date is January 27-28. The cost of the conference is $70 ($25 for students and faculty), including brunch in the dining hall on Saturday. https://www.hollins.edu/academics/continuing-education-camps/roanoke-regional-writers-conference/

February 5-15, 2024: 2024 Sierra Writers Conference (Rocklin, CA). The 2023 Sierra Writers Conference celebrates the 21st anniversary of Sierra College Press and Standing Guard, its landmark book of stories about Japanese internment during WWII. This years conference draws on the spirit of the Sierra College Press, its first publication, and the talent of a diverse group of speakers who will discuss and provide instruction on stories of social justice, the environment, and the craft of writing. https://sierrawritersconference.wordpress.com/

February 1518, 2024: 20th annual San Francisco Writers Conference (San Francisco, CA). The San Francisco Writers Conference (SFWC) enjoys a rich literary culture. Over the course of four days, over 500 attendees and renowned keynote authors, presenters, editors, and agents, attend SFWC, combining the best of both the traditional publishing industry with the latest technology to empower authors to publish anywhere. Situated just north of Silicon Valley, the SFWC is truly a one-of-a-kind celebration of craft, commerce, and community. https://www.sfwriters.org/

February 16-18, 2024: Southern California Writers Conference (San Diego, CA). Founded and run by professional writers the SCWC provides veteran and emerging talent with authoritative guidance to help distinguish those manuscripts that are ready for market consideration, having facilitated well over $4 million worth of first-time authors book and screen deals. https://writersconference.com/sd/

February 20-23, 2024: 29th Annual Writers at the Symposium by the Sea (San Diego, CA). Writers Symposium by the Sea is an annual event to inspire readers and writers alike, featuring evocative conversations with exemplary writers from various genres, backgrounds, and perspectives. During each interview, the audience is invited to actively listen in as writers share what inspires their writing and delve into the practices that propel their success. https://www.pointloma.edu/opportunities/writers-symposium-sea

March 8-9, 2024: 22nd Annual Rocky Mountain Legal Writing Conference (Las Vegas, NV). The Rocky Mountain Regional Legal Writing Conference began in 2000 at University of Arizona Law as the brainchild of Professor Suzanne Rabe (University of Arizona Law), Professor Judy Stinson (Sandra Day OConnor College of Law at ASU) and Professor Terrill Pollman (William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV). The three professors designed the conference as an informal exchange of teaching ideas among legal writing professors from schools in the loosely defined Rocky Mountain region, but it quickly grew into one of the largest and most popular regional legal writing conferences in the nation, drawing participants from across the nation and, indeed, across the globe. https://cal.lmu.edu/event/22nd_annual_rocky_mountain_legal_writing_conference

March 7-8, 2024: Write to Learn Conference (Columbia, MO). This years conference theme will be The Kids ARE the Curriculum. I chose this theme because one of the best pieces of advice I ever got as a teacher was, Dont teach the curriculum; teach kids. Sure, you have to teach some contentEnglish, or Math, or History. But if you keep the focus on the biological units in front of you, everything works better.  says Willy Wood, Write to Learn Conference Coordinator. https://web.cvent.com/event/91630d8b-50cf-496e-b6d4-72e6bba565c6/summary

February 29  March 1, 2024: 27th ASU Writers Conference in Honor of Elmer Kelton (San Angelo, TX). The 2024 conference will commemorate the 27th Angelo State University Writers Conference in Honor of Elmer Kelton. Our two-day conference is one of the few in the state that requires no registration or attendance fees for presenters and guests. https://www.angelo.edu/departments/english-modern-languages/writers_conference.php

March 3-4, 2024: I Write Writing Conference (Denver, CO). Whether you are a Creator, Author, or Soon-to-Be, this conference was designed with you in mind. Giving you a 2-Day Experience for you to network with others in your field. Come Learn, Create, and Thrive with us! https://www.iwriteconference.com/

March 9, 2024: Bay to Ocean Writers Conference 2024 (Wye Mills, MD). Now celebrating its 26th year, the Bay to Ocean Writers Conference is a one-day event that has attracted more than 4,000 writers over its history. It is sponsored by the Eastern Shore Writers Association (ESWA), a non-profit organization of writers from across the Delmarva Peninsula. https://www.easternshorewriters.org/event-5501034

July 12-14, 2024: SAGA 2024 Genre Fiction Writers Conference (Winston-Salem, NC). SAGA is fast becoming the premier genre fiction writing conference east of the Mississippi. With a concentration on genre writing (science fiction, fantasy, romance, mystery, thriller, horror, etc.), SAGA brings the master class-style presentation of a professional writers conference to commercial fiction, with presentations and workshops focused both on craft and on the business of writing. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saga-2024-tickets-677588795327

February 7-10, 2024: AWP Conference 2024 (Kansas City, MO). The AWP Conference & Bookfair is the annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers of contemporary creative writing. It includes thousands of attendees, hundreds of events and bookfair exhibitors, and four days of essential literary conversation and celebration. The AWP Conference & Bookfair has always been a place of connection, reunion, and joy, and we are excited to see the writing community come together again in Kansas City, Missouri in 2024. https://www.awpwriter.org/awp_conference/

March 16, 2024: The 2023 Atlanta Writing Workshop (Atlanta, GA). The title of the Atlanta Writing Workshop is How to Get Published. It focuses on classes and advice intended to help you get your works published. https://atlantawritingworkshop.com/

March 21-23, 2024: Moravian Writers Conference (Bethlehem, PA). To celebrate the conferences 10-year anniversary, this FREE conference (featuring in-person and live streamed events) will focus on different approaches for thinking about story and story sharing. https://www.moravian.edu/writersconference

March 20-22, 2024: 55th Annual UND Writers Conference (Grand Forks, ND). Founded in 1970 and held every year since, the UND Writers Conference is a three-day event featuring six to eight authors annually ranging from Gwendolyn Brooks and August Wilson to Tommy Orange and Colson Whitehead. The UND Writers Conference is committed to community outreach, engagement, and finding ways to increase audience access to literature. https://und.edu/writers-conference/index.html

September 9, 2024: Kentucky Writers Conference (Bowling Green, KY). Bestselling authors and educators participating in SOKY Book Fest will teach craft workshops about everything from plotting techniques to employing poetic language to getting published. The Kentucky Writers Conference is made possible through the generous support of Dollar General. https://sokybookfest.org/

March 22-24, 2024: Lets Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference (Chicago, IL). Lets Just Write! An Uncommon Writers Conference was named one of the best conferences in the U.S. by The Writer Magazine two years in a row! Two days, twenty-plus presenters, workshops, sessions, panelsand more. https://www.chicagowrites.org/conference

March 20-23, 2024: Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference (Andalusia, AL). At Blue Lake Christian Writers Retreat, youll experience the benefits of a large writers conference, but on a more personal level. Whether youre a beginning or experienced writer, interested in fiction or nonfiction, our faculty of seasoned professionals can teach you how to improve your writing skills, market your work, and get published. https://bluelakecwr.com/

March 22-26, 2024: Vision Christian Writers Conference (Felton, CA). The Vision Christian Writing Conference is the response to the devastating news that Mt. Hermon was ceasing their legacy 50-year writing conference at the beginning of the pandemic. https://vcwconf.com/

April 6-7, 2024: South Asian Literary Association Annual Conference (Virtual). In the 2024 annual meeting of SALA, we take seriously the call for collective action, coalition building and solidarity between Black and South Asian peoples across the world in the aftermath of Black Lives Matter and new awareness about anti-Asian racism. https://southasianliteraryassociation.org/cfps/sala-conference-ethics-of-representation-forms-of-resistance-and-narratives-of-discomfort/

April 19-20, 2024: American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW)- Colorado Springs Chapter (Colorado Springs, CO). American Christian Fiction Writers, Colorado Springs Chapter, has offered an affordable conference experience for Christian writers annually since 2009. We invite you to join us at Glen Eyrie Castle in the foothills of Colorado Springs, Colorado, for an unforgettable weekend of teaching, fellowship and inspired writing, whether you are already an established author or just starting your journey to publication. https://acfwcosprings.net/

April 13-15, 2023: Las Vegas Writers Conference (Las Vegas, NV). This year  and every year  the Las Vegas Writers Conference is dedicated to helping writers of all genres improve their craft, sharpen their business skills, and network with publishing professionals. Held each spring, this years conference will draw virtual attendees from around the world. Pitch sessions with literary agents and editors are included in the price of registration. Writers will have the opportunity for one-on-one mentoring sessions with faculty members and other published authors. https://lasvegaswritersconference.com/

April 13-17, 2023: Monterey Writers Retreat Conference (Pacific Grove, CA). Join us on the wondrously scenic and soothing Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove for the express purpose of working intimately with experienced author and agent professionals. Know that writers of every kind have journeyed for over a century to this location on the California west coast. They come in search of inspiration, individuality, purpose and vision, but more importantly, to share an understanding that art has preceded their arrival in the form of a brutally beautiful sea and windswept shore. https://montereywritersretreat.com/

April 14-15, 2023: 26th Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference (Blue Ridge, GA). The Blue Ridge Writers Conference is a hidden gem tucked away at the tip of the blue ridge mountains. This years keynote speaker, Melissa Fay Green, is an award-winning nonfiction author. Green will be one of many professional authors taking part in discussions and panels at the event. https://www.blueridgewritersconference.com/registration-forms.html

April 20-22, 2023: NWG Annual Conference (Omaha, NE). The Nebraska Writers Guild offers three days of consultations, critique boot camps, and shop talk seminars. Appointments with literary agents like Kristina Slater are first-come, first-served, and have no extra cost. This conference is perfect for writers who would rather focus on intimate group or pair discussions rather than large panels. Workshops are capped to allow for in-depth discussion and a focus on networking without small talk. https://nebraskawriters.org/news-events/annual-events/annual-conference.html

April 22-23, 2023: International Conference on Linguistics and Literary Semantics ICLLS (Boston, MA). International Conference on Linguistics and Literary Semantics aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Linguistics and Literary Semantics. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered, and solutions adopted in the fields of Linguistics and Literary Semantics. https://waset.org/linguistics-and-literary-semantics-conference-in-april-2023-in-boston

April 27-30, 2023: 30th Annual Pikes Peak Writers Conference (Colorado Springs, CO). Pikes Peak Writers Conference will be held virtually this year. Writers can participate in workshops taught by subject matter experts and listen to keynote speakers. A 3-day fiction-writing conference for writers of all levels, indie and traditionally published, featuring a variety of craft and business workshops, acquiring editors/agents and well-known authors across a variety of genres. https://pikespeakwritersconference.com/

April 27-30, 2023: The Chanticleer Authors Conference (Bellingham, WA). What makes the Chanticleer Author Conferences so special? Most importantly, the attendees! You are what makes this conference so special. Learning from the experts  Learn from the Best! Learning from each other and Networking and making new friends and connections. https://www.chantireviews.com/chanticleer-conference/

April 28-30, 2023: Sonoma Valley Authors Festival 2023 (Sonoma, CA). 2023 will be the Sonoma Valley Authors Festivals 6th annual three-day weekend. Featuring an influential array of authors and speakers at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, the event sold out all 400 hundred passes in 2022. The same response is anticipated for the event to be held April 28-30, 2023. https://www.sonomavalley.com/event/sonoma-valley-authors-festival-2023/16709/

April 29, 2023: The 2023 Michigan Writing Workshop (Detroit, MI). At this writers conference, participants will enjoy a day of intense instruction on how to get their works published. https://michiganwritingworkshop.com/

April 29, 2023: Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference (Atlanta, GA). They offer the Atlanta Self-Publishing Conference annually for authors who are interested in self-publishing or who have self-published and want to get the most out of their publishing business. https://atlantawritersclub.org/aspc/

April 2023: Muse and the Marketplace (Boston, MA). It will include goal setting, small cohorts of writer friends and those working in your genre, and 70 sessions given by excellent guest authors on the craft of the novel, memoir, poetry, and more, plus sessions on navigating the publishing world led by premiere literary agents, editors, publicists, and more. https://museandthemarketplace.com/muse-2023/

May 4, 2023: 2023 OWFI Writers Conference (Oklahoma City, OK). Founded in 1968, the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. (OWFI) is a non-profit federation of writers groups dedicated to promoting higher standards for the written word. We believe that the literary profession has come of age and merits a fair share of the critical acclaim so generously lavished on other worthwhile arts. OWFI shall seek to coordinate and encourage professional writing within and without its organization and promote the recognition of outstanding contributions to the written language. https://www.owfi.org/

May 5-6, 2023: Lakefly Writers Conference, (Oshkosh, WI). EVERYONE HAS A STORY! Come to the Oshkosh Premier Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center for a two-day conference. They offer workshops on the craft and business of writing designed to inspire and guide your creative journey. https://lakeflywriters.org/

May 12-13, 2023. 10th Annual Washington Writers Conference, (Rockville, MD). You will be able to choose from a pool of roughly 20 literary agents. Once we have the full slate set, registrants will be sent a link where you can make your selections; agent bios will be available on www.wirobooks.com. https://wirobooks.regfox.com/2023-washington-writers-conference

May 13-16, 2023. Kachemak Bay Writers Conference (Homer, AK). The Kachemak Bay Writers Conference has been the place where writers from Alaska and beyond come together to create community and learn how to be better writers. https://writersconf.kpc.alaska.edu/

May 14-17, 2023: Technical Communication Summit (Atlanta, GA). The STC Summit makes technical communication come to life like no other event. Every year, technical communicators gather together to: Learn! Attend educational sessions on numerous topics with a variety of formats and experience levels. Hear from industry experts, well-known authors, and inspiring new voices to upgrade your skill sets and bring best practices back to your workplace. https://summit.stc.org/

May 18-21, 2023: Looking Glass Rock Writers Conference (Brevard, NC). Exploring the theme A Sense of Place, small select groups of conference attendees experience working under the guidance of notable writers. Founded in 2016 as a partnership between the Transylvania County Library and Brevard College, the annual conference consists of writing workshops for select participants and public readings by the workshop leaders free to the community. https://www.lgrwc.org/

May 24-30, 2023: TWH Maine Mini MFA All-Fiction Writers Conference (Boothbay Harbor, ME). The Writers Hotel Maine Mini MFA is a unique, hybrid, comprehensive writing program. Our programming includes our TWH two-editor pre-conference Team Reading and our conference, to be held IN-PERSON this year from May 24-30, 2023. TWH will be at the Spruce Point Inn Resort and Spa in Boothbay Harbor, Maine! https://www.writershotel.com/twh-maine-mini-mfa-all-fiction-conference-2023

May 25-27, 2022: 2023 Writing Heights Writers Conference (Fort Collins, CO). Effective January 1, 2023, NCW will be doing business as Writing Heights Writers Association. Since 2007, they have provided support and encouragement to writers of all levels and genres in Northern Colorado and beyond. Through monthly meetings, classes, networking & social events, the annual conference, the monthly newsletter and annual retreat, WHWA helps writers navigate their way to success. https://www.writingheights.com/page/conference

May 2023: ASJA Annual Conference (Virtual). With more than 900 members, ASJA stands as the countrys leading and most prestigious association of successful journalists, authors, and nonfiction and literary nonfiction writers, and weve never had a better time to talk about collaboration and networking. https://www.asja.org/events-overview/

May 5-6, 2023: Atlanta Writers Conference (Atlanta, GA). The Atlanta Writers Conference offers one-on-one manuscript sample critiques, pitch sessions, and workshops. On Friday, May 5 and Saturday, May 6, 2023, the Atlanta Writers Club will present its 28th Atlanta Writers Conference, in-person at the Westin Atlanta Airport Hotel. We will now only offer a virtual option for critique and pitch meetings with the agents and editors, due to the ever-increasing expense of the audio-visual equipment and personnel involved and the ever-dwindling number of virtual participants. https://atlantawritersconference.com/

May 11-13, 2023: Storymakers Conference (Provo, UT). The Storymakers Conference will consist of various classes that cover various topics such as cover design, marketing, creating a writing business, and the nuts and bolts of screenwriting. The Storymakers conference features over a hundred classes geared toward aspiring and established writers alike, taught by some of the best presenters in the publishing industry. https://storymakersguild.org/storymakers-conference/

June 09-11, 2023: Between the Pages Writers Conference (Springfield, MO). Springfield Writers Guild, Sleuths Ink, and Ozarks Romance Authors are pleased to present the second annual Between the Pages Writers Con, June 9-11, 2023. Join us for an exciting lineup of guest speakers, workshops, and the opportunity to network with industry professionals. https://btpwriterscon.com/

June 12-16, 2023: Writing and Illustrating for Young Readers Conference (Draper, UT). A #kidlit writing conference that Turns more writers into authors than any other conference of its kind. https://www.facebook.com/wifyr

June 14-17, 2023: Write-to-Publish Conference (Wheaton, IL). Since 1971, Write-to-Publish has been training, inspiring and encouraging writers like you, connecting them with editors to help them improve their craft, with publishers who are looking for good books to publish, and with literary agents who can represent them. https://writetopublish.com/

June 20-25, 2023: Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference (Bemidji, MN). The Minnesota Northwoods Writers Conference has given hundreds of participants from Minnesota and across the United States the opportunity to work closely with award-winning faculty. We offer a range of scholarships to support emerging writers, important voices, and community leaders. This writing conference is full of workshops, Q&A sessions, panel talks. https://www.northwoodswriters.org/

June 21-25, 2023: St. Davids Christian Writers Conference (Meadville, PA). St. Davids is special. Theyre an intimate gathering of writers that provides an opportunity to build a network, not by exchanging business cards in a busy hallway. Here they connect, like real people  laughing over lunch, chatting about their projects in the lounge, or giving their elevator pitch in genre group meetings. Writing is a different beast with the digital world but connecting with people is still done face to face. http://stdavidswriters.com/

June 22-24, 2023: Jackson Hole Writers Conference (Jackson, WY). The annual Jackson Hole Writers Conference brings top agents, editors and authors together each June for a celebration of the craft of writing. https://jhwriters.org/

June 22-25, 2023: Computers and Writing Conference (Davis, CA). The conference itself will, in fact, be a hybrid experience, intentionally designed to bridge online and on-site experiences. In engaging with a hybridized experience, us, well explore an expansive range of questions about the goals and purposes of hybridity. Who does hybridity benefit? And what do we strive to accomplish by engaging in explicitly hybrid ways both within and beyond the classroom? https://cwcon2023.ucdavis.edu/

June 28  July 2, 2023: GCLS Annual Conference (Denver, CO). The GCLSs annual conference is the premier literary event for both authors and readers. The event brings together readers, fans, writers, editors and publishers to celebrate women-loving-women and sapphic literature. https://www.goldencrownliterarysociety.org/2023-annual-conference

July 13-16, 2023: Readercon 32 Conference (Quincy, MA). Although Readercon is modeled on science fiction conventions, we have no art show, no costumes, no gaming, and almost no media. Instead, Readercon features a near-total focus on the written word. In many years the list of Readercon guests rivals or surpasses that of the Worldcon in quality. Readercon is the only small convention regularly attended by such giants of imaginative literature as Samuel R. Delany, Ellen Datlow, Amal El-Mohtar, John Crowley, Greer Gilman, and Catherynne M. Valente. https://readercon.org/

July 14-16, 2023: Imaginarium (Louisville, KY). Join bestselling fantasy authors, Michael Williams and Tim Waggoner, at Imaginarium 2022! More than 130 panels will be taking place during this three-day celebration of storytelling. This event is more than your typical conference. Its also a film festival, gaming tournament, Comicon convention, and a book fair! Imaginarium prides itself on being family-friendly with something for everyone. Kids 12 and under can attend for free! https://www.entertheimaginarium.com/

July 16-22, 2023: Port Townsend Writers Conference (Port Townsend, WA). The Port Townsend Writers Conference will feature guided free writes as well as readings and lectures by contemporary writers in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. In 2023, Centrums writing programs will offer participants vital support?for the?creation and revision of new and existing work from PTWC Artistic Curator Gary Copeland Lilley and award-winning faculty (listed alphabetically) Kim Addonizio, Quenton Baker, Elizabeth Colen, Alice Derry, ?Melissa Febos, CMarie Fuhrman, Tess Gallagher, Jennifer Givhan, Derrick Harriell, Arna Bontemps Hemenway, Brandon Hobson, Ravi Howard, Sasha LaPointe, ?Sam Ligon, Rena Priest, Sebastian Matthews, Laura Read, Anastacia Renee, Shawn Vestal, and Kristen Millares Young. https://centrum.org/the-port-townsend-writers-conference/

July 19-22, 2023: Romance Writers of America Conference (Anaheim, CA). RWA works to support the efforts of its members to earn a living, to make a full-time career out of writing romance  or a part-time one that generously supplements their main income. https://www.rwa.org/conference

July 22-25, 2023: Sun Valley Writers Conference (Sun Valley, ID). The Sun Valley Writers Conference (SVWC) began with a conversation among four friends  journalist Reva B. Tooley, Sun Valley Community School leaders Jon and Leslie Maksik, and venture capitalist Gordon Russell, who sat around a kitchen table in 1994 and fantasized about starting a writers conference. One year later, SVWC held its first event in a tent at Sun Valley Community School, featuring 12 writers, 108 attendees, and an opening talk by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, David Halberstam. https://svwc.com/

July 23-29, 2023: Leopardi Writing Conference (Recanati, Italy). An immersive program for new and experienced authors, the Leopardi Writing Conference offers workshops and craft talks in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. As writing tends to be a solitary endeavor, the Leopardi Writing Conference will serve the inspiring purpose of community and place. We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to receive expert feedback on your writing project, and get to know your fellow writers, including the distinguished members of our faculty. https://www.leopardiwc.org/

July 30  August 4, 2023: Napa Valley Writers Conference (Napa, CA). Since 1981, the Napa Valley Writers Conference has provided literary fellowship and a craft-focused experience among the foothills and vineyards that have made this region famous. http://www.napawritersconference.org/

August 2-6, 2023: Willamette Writers Conference (Portland, OR). Willamette Writers is the largest writers organization in the Pacific Northwest. Writers of all genres and at all stages of their careers come to our meetings, annual conference, and workshops to connect with their community, develop their craft, and advance their career. https://willamettewriters.org/

August 3-5, 2023: Mendocino Coast Writers Conference (Mendocino, CA). The Mendocino Coast Writers Conference is a vibrant gathering that offers morning workshops in a wide range of genres. Afternoons are packed with craft seminars, panels, one-on-one consultations, and open mics; and every evening offers an opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and connection that make this conference, in the words of one participant, life changing. At this conference, writers can participate in morning workshops that are related to various genres. https://mcwc.org/

August 3-6, 2023. The 60th Cape Cod Writers Center Conference (Barnstable, MA). The Cape Cod Writers Center is committed to assisting published and aspiring writers of all genres, abilities and ages to develop their writing skills and learn the business of editing, publishing and promotion. https://capecodwriterscenter.org/conference-2/

August 4-6, 2023: Advanced Speakers & Writers Conference (AWSA). AWSA is a special fellowship of over 800 Christian women. We are professional authors, entertainers, publishers and speakers who encourage and train one another. https://awsa.com/

July 29-30, 2024: 35th Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference (Culiver City, CA). Learn how to take your writing to the next level at the Annual Greater Los Angeles Writers Conference. AGLAWC offers everything you need to advance your writing career creatively and professionally. Gain invaluable tips to improve your craft, explore publishing options and learn how to establish a sustainable careerall while being inspired by successful authors and your fellow attendees. It is a great opportunity to receive educational and inspirational guidance from a wealth of literary agents, veteran educators, industry professionals, professional editors, and publishers in the craft and business of writing fiction, nonfiction, plus screenwriting taught by Hollywood veterans. https://www.wcwriters.com/aglawc/

August 39, 2024: 29th Annual Postgraduate Writers Conference (Montpelier, VT). VCFAs annual Postgraduate Writers Conference is a haven for serious, emerging practitioners seeking to connect, recharge, and lift their process and craft to new levels. https://vcfa.edu/postgraduate-writers-conference/

August 22-25, 2024: 2024 Killer Nashville International Writers Conference (Franklin, TN). Killer Nashville is the premier forum for all genres incorporating mystery, thriller, or suspense elements; learn, present, meet agents & editors, sign books, mingle with forensic experts, and network. Writers who attend the Killer Nashville Writers Conference can expect writing workshops, pitch sessions, panel discussions, author signings, and a book fair. https://www.killernashville.com/

September 5-8, 2024: American Christian Fiction Writers Conference St. Louis (St. Louis, MO). If youve attended an ACFW conference before, you understand what the excitements about. Each year, hundreds of veteran authors and those just learning the craft of Christian fiction gather in a setting like this to hear skilled instructors, inspiring keynotersto gain from the insights of industry professionalsto interact with other writersand to present their ideas to agents and editors looking for stories like theirs, or to mentors who can help them move forward in their writing career. If you write Christian fictionor want to learn howthe ACFW conference is an investment worth making. We hope youll join us on this exciting journey, taking a major step forward in your writing career. ACFW, the Voice of Christian Fiction. https://acfw.com/acfw-conference/

September 27-29, 2024: Colorado Gold Writers Conference (Denver, CO). They want to help you lift up and lift off your writing career at 2023s Colorado Gold Writers Conference with a smashing line-up of keynotes, super-star agents (including for film adaptation), workshops for a variety of topics and genres, and networking galore. (Did someone say Bar-con?). https://rmfw.org/conference/

October 10-13, 2024: Ozarks Creative Writers Conference (Eureka Springs, AR). This conference is for new, emerging, and accomplished writers focusing on the craft of writing, further developing skills, as well as stimulating and encouraging participants. OCW also focuses on opportunities for the participants to interact with editors, agents, and publishers. https://www.ozarkcreativewriters.com/

Select a writers conference of interest to you and be prepared to enjoy the benefits of meeting other writers. You may acquire knowledge you can use immediately, find a new market for your book, elevate your professional effectiveness, meet editors, agents and publishers, become inspired and return home energized.

The Bottom Line: Take a little working vacation and hit some writers conferences. Make it a priority to sign up for one in the coming weeks and months. Youll be glad you did!

Book publicist Scott Lorenz is President of Westwind Communications, a public relations and marketing firm that has a special knack for working with authors to help them get all the publicity they deserve and more. Lorenz works with bestselling authors and self-published authors promoting all types of books, whether its their first book or their 15th book. Hes handled publicity for books by CEOs, CIA Officers, Navy SEALS, Homemakers, Fitness Gurus, Doctors, Lawyers and Adventurers. His clients have been featured by Good Morning America, FOX & Friends, CNN, ABC News, New York Times, Nightline, TIME, PBS, LA Times, USA Today, Washington Post, Womans World, & Howard Stern to name a few.

Learn more about Westwind Communications book marketing approach at https://www.WestwindBookMarketing.com or contact Lorenz at [email protected] or 734-667-2090 or fill out the form below. Follow Lorenz on Twitter @aBookPublicist. Want help titling a book? Check out Scott Lorenzs new award winning, bestselling book: Book Title Generator- A Proven System in Naming Your Book www.BookTitleGenerator.net.

Would you like help promoting your book?

If so, tell us a little about your book. What is the title? Do you have a publisher? What is the publish date? How many pages is your book? What is the cost? Do you have web site? What is your specific goal I.E., to make money, raise awareness, get the attention of an agent or publisher, sell the story to a movie or TV studio or something else?

Submit the form below with this information and well get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you!
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Arla's Melton Mowbray cheese factory may close down putting sixty jobs at risk, as the dairy co-op today launched a review into the site.

The UKs largest dairy cooperative announced it would be undertaking a strategic operational review of the speciality cheese site.

Known locally as Tuxford & Tebbutt, the factory, which has been making cheese since the 18th century, currently employs around 60 people.

During the review process, Arla said it would be exploring the market for any buyers of the creamery.

The co-op said the site would continue to be operational during this time, and there would be no impact to production, customers, or employees.

Fran Ball, VP of production at Arla, said that over the last few years, the speciality cheese market in the UK, which includes Stilton, had declined.

She said: As a farmer owned cooperative, we are therefore looking at what this means for our business so we can continue to return a fair price back to our 2,000 UK farmer owners.

"We understand that todays announcement will bring a sense of uncertainty for those who work at Melton Mowbray and those who work directly with the site team.

Wed like to reassure shoppers that there will be no impact to the supply of our products, during this review period.

The dairy cooperative expects to be providing an update on the review by April 2024.
Northern Irish farmers are being urged to look at the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) requirements to ensure they are compliant and to keep payments safe.

As the end of the closed period approaches, the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) is reminding farmers that rules were updated a few years ago with new restrictions for spreading in February and early October.

As part of the change, farmers spreading slurry during the month of February must abide by increased buffer zones in fields adjacent to waterways.

These are as follows: From 20m to 30m from lakes; from 10m to 15m from any waterway; and from 3m to 5m if using Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment (LESSE) provided the land has a slope of less than 10%.

The maximum slurry application rate when spreading in February was reduced from 50m3/ha (4500gallons/acre) to 30m3/ha (2700gallons/acre) at any one time.

Slurry and other organic manures must only be spread when soil and land conditions are appropriate in line with the NAP requirements.

Contractors are also required to comply with these rules, with the UFU calling on them to familiarise themselves with the various restrictions so that they too remain compliant.

The union is also reminding farmers of the upcoming deadline to submit records of slurry and all other organic manures exported from farms during 2023.

Any farm exporting slurry, chicken litter or manure to another farm must submit this information online to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) by the end of January 2024.

Under NAP, farmers must be able to show they meet the 170 kg of organic nitrogen per hectare limit over a year.

This is effectively a stocking limit and while in NI over 90% of farms are working under this limit, those that are over the 170kgN/ha/year must take action to ensure cross compliance penalties are avoided.

Farmers can choose to export slurry in order to meet this limit, the UFU says, however, they must record and submit this information online by 31 January.

It says that farmers above the 170 kgN/ha/year limit should consider applying for a derogation if they can meet the criteria.

The deadline for applying for a nitrates derogation is 1 March 2024, therefore UFU is urging farmers to relook at their N loading now to allow them time to consider their options.

A nitrates derogation allows a higher organic nitrogen loading of up to 250 kg N/ha/year on some farms. All other farms in Northern Ireland must comply with an organic nitrogen loading limit of 170 kg N/ha/year.

The UFU is urging any farmer who feels that they may need a derogation to submit an application online to NIEA by the 1 March closing date.

"While the additional requirements may seem off-putting, the derogation option may well be the most suitable option for a farm business," the union says.

"Farmers who are already operating within an approved derogation for 2023 are required to submit a Fertilisation Account to NIEA by 1 March 2024 and an application form if they wish to continue at the higher stocking rate in 2024.

"Failure to submit a Fertilisation Account could result in penalties being applied to area payments."
An investigator has claimed that the US military has been shooting down UFOs and building their own alien craft.

The US military have been accused of shooting down UFOs

Aviation expert Michael Schratt has proposed the theory that Air Force pilots have been taking out extraterrestrials and experimenting with the crashed ships.

Schratt suggests that the mystery objects that have been seen in Earth's skies might not be aliens after all and claims that US Navy pilots have been alarmed by UFO sightings as they do not have the security clearance to know about the technology.

He said: "They might be convinced it is ET but how are they going to know what's going on in the bowels of Air Force plant 42? These people will stop at nothing to make you think that we're dealing with an ET craft."
A reformed mobster who confessed to stealing a pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' couldn't resist "one final score".

A reformed mobster wanted 'one final score'

Terry Jon Martin is due to be sentenced for the 2005 theft from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids on 29 January,and his defence attorney has now explained the reasons behind the terminally-ill man's actions.

A memo written by Dane DeKrey explained an unidentified former mob associate led Martin - who hadn't committed a crime in nearly 10 years after his last prison stint - to believe the iconic footwear must have had real rubies embedded inside to justify their $1 million insurance value.

He wrote: 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.

Martin is currently receiving hospice care with a life expectancy of less than six months, and both his team and prosecutors have recommended the judge sentence him to time served because he is physically incapable of preventing a threat to society as he needs oxygen at all times because of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder

In 'The Wizard of Oz', Judy Garland wore a number of pairs of the famous red high heels for logistical purposes, with others currently belonging to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian Museum of American History, and a private collector.

The pair in question were owned by Michael Shaw and were on loan to the museum dedicated to the actress when they were stolen but were returned to him in 2018 following an FBI operation.

John Kelsch, curator of the Judy Garland Museum, said: "There's some closure, and we do know definitely that Terry Jon Martin did break into our museum, but I'd like to know what happened to them after he let them go.

"Just to do it because he thought they were real rubies and to turn them over to a jewellery fence. I mean, the value is not rubies. The value is an American treasure, a national treasure. To steal them without knowing that seems ludicrous!"
Russell Crowe has warned fans not to be duped by "fake" AI adverts featuring his likeness.

Russell Crowe is fuming over an advert which features an AI version of him promoting a property company

The 'Gladiator' star has hit out after stumbling across a video which appears to show him promoting a real estate firm in Malta - with the actor insisting the commercial is using "shonky" AI to make it looks as if he is endorsing the business.

He has now posted a warned on X - formerly known as Twitter - telling his followers not to be fooled. Crowe wrote: "This is going around in Malta. It is obviously fake BS, dont fall for it.

"What else is obvious is that this service/business must be shonky and underhanded to resort to this way of promoting itself. Block, report, ignore. Ive never used this service and I do not endorse this BS."

In the video, the fake Crowe is seen talking about the property company's new app, saying: "Ladies and gentlemen, I'm excited to share some fantastic news with you, especially for those of you in Malta or anyone considering a move to this beautiful island.

"I recently discovered an incredible tool that has made my house-hunting experience truly seamless and enjoyable."

The real Crowe has strong ties to Malta after working there many times over years - even filming scenes for 'Gladiator' on the island - and the actor previously hinted he might consider applying for Maltese citizenship.

According to The Times of Malta, he said last year: "There have been discussions on citizenship ... I feel like an uncle here ... The only reason I speak so positively about Malta is because  it is a fantastic place."

It comes after Crowe recently admitted he's considering retiring from public life after he turns 60 in April.

The actor insisted his life will go in one of two different directions - he will either emulate his longtime friend and collaborator Sir Ridley Scott by working into his 80s or he will step away from Hollywood completely and never be heard of again.

Speaking at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival in the Czech Republic, Crowe explained: "You are standing in front of the mirror, and go: Who the f*** is that? I am in that period now.

"I will take Ridley Scott as my role model: he is still discovering new things in his work. Or I will just stop and you will never hear from me again. I havent decided what its going to be. These are two very valid choices."
Image: Instagram/wahydbangladesh





A seven-layered drink of different varieties of tea is the unusual beverage to find in Sylhet, Bangladesh



It makes a drinkable rainbow of sorts. Romesh Ram Gour in Sylhet, Bangladesh, is known for his signature invention, a seven-layered tea. He sells it at his two stalls in the northeast region of Sylhet; the first location is Nilkantha Tea Cabins, Border Guard Canteen at Srimongol, and the second, a two-minute drive away, is Adi Nilkantha Tea Cabin on Kalighat Road.



Romesh discovered that if he poured teas made using different tea leaves, spices and milk over each other into a glass, the varying densities of the different teas created distinct and distinctive layers. The Saata Rong Cha  in Bengali  became a sensation, so much so that, in 2012, Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, summoned Romesh to personally reproduce for her the famous drink. Since he didnt get a photograph with her, he has kept the glass she drank from as a souvenir. In 2017, Ahmed bin Mohamed al-Dehaimi, the Qatari ambassador to Bangladesh, also visited Romeshs first stall and reportedly paid him 7,000 Bangladeshi taka (about Rs 6,000) for his glass of tea.



The layers in the glass of tea can vary in colour from bright green to milky red and dusky brown. Romesh has reportedly also managed to make a 10-layered beverage. While the recipe remains secret, those who have tasted the beverage have tasted lemon, cloves, condensed milk and cinnamon.



Also Read: Comfort In A Cup: Delicious Hot Chocolate Recipes
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Alia Bhatt Ramayana-themed saree: The entire nation is immersed in a festive spirit today as the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony took place in Ayodhya. Several filmy celebrities attended the ceremony, including power couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.

Alia and Ranbir both opted for elegant ethnic attires for the grand opening of the Ram temple and stole hearts with their simplicity. However, eagle-eyed fans discovered an intriguing detail about Alia's saree and revealed that the cloth piece is adorned with motifs depicting scenes from the Ramayana.

Alia Bhatt's Ramayana-themed saree for Ram temple inauguration

Images of actors Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor left fans excited as they jetted off to attend the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony. The duo's traditional attire caught everyone's attention on the internet.

Sourabh Raj Jain's Poem On Lord Ram Goes Viral, On The Ocassion Of Ram Mandir Inauguration

The Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani actress wore a teal blue saree that held a significant connection to the auspicious event. She was decked up in an aqua-blue-hued saree with silver-hued stripe patterns at the borders. It featured intricate motifs depicting the revered tale of the great Ramayana.

She teamed the sari with a shawl to keep her warm in the cold weather of the north. Alia went for soft makeup and a braided bun and carried a blue-hued potli bag, a pair of classy earrings, and a matching bangle to complete her charming look.

On the other hand, Ranbir looked handsome in a beige dhoti-kurta set, which he paired with a shawl. For accessories, he wore a diamond stud in one of his ears and classic Kolhapuri chappals.

Soon, keen fans observed that Alia's ensemble has motifs depicting scenes from the Ramayana and explained in a post, "Alia Bhatt is wearing a saree that has the entire Ramayana depicted on it through motifs," pointing out the portrayal of "Hanuman ji, Ram Setu, and lord Ram."

Alia Bhatt is wearing a saree that has the entire Ramayan depicted on it through motifs.#AliaBhatt #RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/9lVMIJRLem  ritika| RK ANIMAL ERA (@ritikatweetssx) January 22, 2024

Another fan wrote, "Alia Bhatt wearing a saree which has Ramayana depicted on it? wow this is beautiful!"

alia bhatt wearing a saree which has ramayana depicted on it? wow this is beautiful! pic.twitter.com/6NoZFUBDKI   (@softiealiaa) January 22, 2024

Fans React As Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif Attend Ram Mandir Consecration Ceremony: Exes Phir Se Ek Sath

Alia Bhatt was last seen in 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' alongside Ranveer Singh. Her upcoming project is 'Jigra' with director Vasan Bala.
Four persons were arrested over the screening of a documentary in a restaurant here without valid permissions and creating an atmosphere of disturbing peace, police said on Sunday.

The screening of the documentary 'Ram ke naam' was organised in the restaurant at Neredmet here on Saturday without any permission, they said. A case was registered under IPC Sections, including 143 (relating to unlawful assembly), Section 290 (public nuisance), Section 295 A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs).

The complainant, who had gone to the restaurant along with his friends, had said the film was being played and a few people were discussing it, according to the FIR. When he watched them, he found that all their acts and behaviour were 'against Hinduism and hurting religious sentiments', besides making derogatory statements against the Hindu religion, he alleged.

The complainant, who asked the management about it, further alleged that he was abused (by the organisers). He claimed that the organisers intentionally held the event to create communal issues before the Lord Ram temple event (at Ayodhya).

Meanwhile, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi asked on X whether the police of Rachakonda commissionerate can explain why the screening of the documentary was stopped midway.

Can @RachakondaCop please explain why screening of the documentary Ram ke Naam was stopped midway & 3 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....- Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) January 21, 2024

"Can @RachakondaCop please explain why screening of the documentary Ram ke Naam was stopped midway & 3 people were arrested?," Owaisi said.

Watch the video below:-

#VishwaHinduParishad stopped the screening of Ram Ke Naam documentary movie in a cafe in Sainikpuri, Hyderabad. They filed a complaint with the police that this movie is against the #RamMandir construction in Ayodhya. Three people have been arrested by police. pic.twitter.com/JwqFtExTzs  FilmiBeat (@filmibeat) January 22, 2024

"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. Please let us know if we need a pre-screening certificate from police before watching a movie," he said.
Ram Mandir Inauguration: January 22, 2024, will be a monumental day for all Indians as the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony will take place today in Ayodhya. The Ram Lalla idol will be placed in the newly constructed Ram temple, and the pious occasion is being celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country.

Numerous celebrities have been invited to the grand event, and many, including Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi, Abhishek Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal, Ram Charan, Jackie Shroff, and Rohit Shetty, among others, were spotted on Monday morning leaving in traditional outfits to grace the inauguration.

Amitabh-Abhishek Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan and son-actor Abhishek Bachchan were seen leaving Mumbai together to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya today. Big B wore a white kurta, pants, a beige half jacket, a grey muffler, and sneakers, and he also carried a book with him. While Abhishek was dressed in a casual hoodie and pants.

Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Akshay Kumar To SKIP Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony; Heres Why

Madhuri Dixit

Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, along with her husband Sriram Nene, was spotted at Kalina airport as they jetted off to Ayodhya. Madhuri looked mesmerising in a mustard yellow embellished saree, which she teamed up with a full-sleeve golden blouse. She posed with her husband, Dr Shriram Nene, who wore a maroon kurta layered with a maroon and golden jacket and a white pyjama.

Jackie Shroff

Jackie Shroff was seen in his usual element as he donned an all-white ethnic outfit and carried a plant with him. He posed for the paps before heading for the event.

Ayushmann Khurrana

Ayushmann Khurrana also made a brief appearance for the paparazzi at the Kalina airport in a statement in an off-white-coloured kurta pyjama, which he layered with an embroidered beige-coloured Nehru Jacket. To complete his look, he wore a stole around his neck and brown footwear.

Other celebs to attend the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony

Several other celebs, like Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor, and Rohit Shetty, were seen on Monday morning leaving for Ayodhya. Meanwhile, Rajinikanth, Kanagna Ranaut, Anupam Kher, Vivek Oberoi, and others have already reached the holy city.

Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: South Celebs Rajinikanth, Ram Charan, Chiranjeevi, Rishab Shetty Land In Ayodhya

The Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya's temple will begin at 12.20 pm and end by 1 pm. The 51-inch-tall and 1.5-tonne-weighing, five-year-old child idol of Lord Ram will be placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The standing idol has been crafted on a lotus figure made with the same stones.
Bigg Boss Kannada 10 top 5 finalists: The countdown for the grand finale of Bigg Boss Kannada season 10 has started. Fans have not been able to control their calm ever since the makers announced that the winner be announced in a blockbuster event.

Kiccha Sudeep will announce the name of Bigg Boss Kannada 10 winner on January 28, 2024 in a star-studded event. Before the grand finale, the makers organised a Bigg Boss Kannada press conference where the journalists grilled the contestants.

BIGG BOSS KANNADA 10 TOP 5 FINALISTS NAME: WHO WILL WIN FINALE?

Six contestants have been eliminated for mid-week eviction in week 16 of the reality show. Namratha Gowda and Tanisha were evicted from the BBK house, giving us the top six contestants. In another major development, the makers announced that the remaining housemates will have to battle it out for the finale spot.

Vinay Gowda, Karthik Mahesh, Drone Prathap, Sangeetha Sringeri, Tukali Santhosh, Varthur Santhosh have been nominated in the last week. There will be a mid-week in the show.
Shaiteni Rasmein twist: Shefali Jariwala, known for her portrayal of Kapalika in the supernatural drama 'Shaitani Rasmein' on Star Bharat, is making waves for her hands-on approach to the show's demanding stunts and special effects. Unlike many actors who opt for body doubles and stunt artists, Jariwala has embraced the exhilarating experience of executing her own stunts.

SHEFALI JARIWALA PERFORMS STUNTS IN SHAITANI RASMEIN

Jariwala shares her excitement about the unique challenges the show presents. In an interaction with a news agency, she spoke about perfoming her own stunts.

"Every day on set feels like an adventure for me. It's not your typical shooting day. I find myself engaged in various stunts, be it harnessing or climbing up trees, making the shooting experience immensely enjoyable. I prefer doing my own stunts because it provides an adrenaline rush, ensuring that the shot is executed perfectly, and it also allows me to learn and grow. 'Shaitani Rasmein' demands a significant amount of special effects and stunts, as evident from the initial episodes. I can assure you, there's much more to come, and viewers will undoubtedly be glued to their seats," Shefali was quoted as saying by IANS.

The show co-starring Vibhav Roy and Naqiyah Haji has managed to keep the audience hooked on to their television sets. Since its premiere on January 15, 2024, the show has created a lot of buzz.

In the current storyline, viewers witness Nikki, portrayed by Naqiyah, expressing her desire to depart from Bhurangarh, as she has been compelled to participate in the Shaitani Rasmein since her arrival at the Haveli with Piyush, played by Vibhav Roy. However, the looming question remains: Will Kapalika easily allow Nikki and Piyush to leave Bhurangarh? The anticipation builds as viewers await the unfolding of the next events.

'Shaitani Rasmein' airs every Monday-Saturday at 10pm on Star Bharat.
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / January 21, 2024 / From humble beginnings to becoming a beacon in the beauty industry, Pancho Soekoro's journey with Panca Salon is a story of passion, perseverance, and innovation. Today, Pancho Soekoro, founder and CEO of Panca Salon, shares his inspirational story, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped one of the most successful salon chains in the region.

The Genesis of a Dream

Pancho Soekoro's venture into the beauty industry was driven by a deep-seated passion for fashion and aesthetics. What began as a small, single-chair salon has now blossomed into a prestigious chain, renowned for its exceptional service, innovative techniques, and commitment to customer satisfaction. "I started with a simple belief - to make everyone who walked into my salon feel special and beautiful. That belief is the cornerstone of Panca Salon," says Soekoro.

Overcoming Challenges

The road to success was not without its hurdles. Soekoro faced numerous challenges, from financial constraints to industry skepticism. However, his unwavering dedication and innovative strategies, such as incorporating technology in beauty treatments and prioritizing staff training, have been instrumental in overcoming these obstacles. "Every challenge was an opportunity to learn and grow," Soekoro adds.

A Commitment to Excellence

Panca Salon is now synonymous with quality and innovation in the beauty industry. The salon's commitment to using only the best products, coupled with continuous staff training, ensures that each client receives personalized and professional service. This commitment has not only won the loyalty of a vast clientele but has also garnered numerous accolades for Panca Salon.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond business success, Soekoro is passionate about giving back to the community. Panca Salon regularly organizes community service events, offers training programs for aspiring beauticians, and supports various local charities. "Success is more meaningful when you can share it with others," remarks Soekoro.

The Future Looks Bright

As Panca Salon continues to grow, Soekoro remains focused on innovation, excellence, and expanding the brand's footprint. With plans to open more locations and delve into product development, the future looks bright for Pancho Soekoro and Panca Salon.

Pancho's Bio

Meet Pancho Soekoro, a distinguished hair stylist whose journey through the realms of beauty began with training in the iconic city of Paris and under the guidance of Bruno Dessange, Jacques Dessange and Frederic Fekkai. Situated at the epicenter of the global fashion scene, Pancho has become a notable figure in the industry. His client roster includes distinguished names such as Anna Wintour, Martha Stewart, Hoda Kotb, the Yurman family, Todd English, Jason Binn, and many more luminaries. Pancho's reputation extends beyond his celebrity clientele. With a career marked by a commitment to excellence, Pancho stands at the leading edge of both current and classic hair styling, making him a dynamic force in the ever-evolving world of fashion. From precision haircuts to keratin treatments and flawless blowouts Pancho's expertise knows no bounds. His commitment to excellence and versatility has made him a sought-after name in the industry, showcasing a perfect blend of youthfulness and artistic sophistication

Panca Salon Bio

Panca Salon, pronounced Pan-cha in Hindu Sanskrit, is an exclusive beauty haven situated amidst the iconic corners of 57th St and 5th Ave. Born from the creative mind of Pancho Soekoro, a leading NYC hairstylist, Panca Salon embodies a fusion of youthful energy and timeless elegance. Our family of highly-trained professionals specializes in an array of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clientele with a customer-centric culture. From cutting correction to color correction, straightening, and the artistry of hair extensions, we pride ourselves on understanding the unique challenges of fine and thick hair. We invite you to embrace a blend of youthful sophistication and classic beauty.

For further information please contact Pat Davis with the contact information below.

Press Contact:

Info@DuJour.com

646-706-7669

SOURCE: DuJour Select

View the original press release on accesswire.com
OANDA announces the launch of OANDA Labs Trader, a new profit-sharing program for traders

NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- OANDA Global Corporation today announced the launch of OANDA Labs Trader, a pioneering trading program centred around profit sharing that enables traders to grow their skills and accelerate their profits.

OANDA Labs Trader is available to residents of countries serviced by OANDA's Global Markets division, a firm authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission of the British Virgin Islands. The program is designed to give talented private investors and self-directed traders the unique opportunity to become signal providers, on a profit-sharing basis, to OANDA's proprietary trading business.

In order to unlock the profit share as an OANDA Labs Trader, traders must first pass an assessment through a trading Challenge, a demo environment that gives them the chance to test out their strategies and skills with virtual funds.

Commenting on this launch, Kurt vom Scheidt, Chief Operating Officer of OANDA, said: "Our vision is centred on enabling smarter trading for clients. Through this program, the most capable traders are empowered with streamlined access to global financial markets across a range of asset classes. In addition to the share they can earn on their profitable trading of virtual funds, traders will receive the necessary tools, such as educational materials and exclusive data-driven features and widgets, to set them up for successful trading. We look forward to growing our proprietary trading activity by incorporating valuable signals from Labs Traders as inputs into our trading models."

OANDA Labs Trader is also a vibrant new brand that will resonate with traders and private investors around the world, expressed by sharply contrasting orange and black hues. Built around the bold tagline "you raise your game, we'll raise the capital," OANDA Labs Trader inspires self-reliant traders to leverage skills, insight, and strategies to achieve their financial goals.

How the OANDA Labs Trader program works



The OANDA Labs Trader program allows traders who pass an assessment to gain access to an OANDA Labs Trader account and share in the P&L they produce. OANDA's proprietary trading models use the trading signals produced by OANDA Labs Traders in combination with other input variables to guide OANDA's market positioning decisions. OANDA's proprietary capital is at risk, so OANDA asks potential OANDA Labs Traders to complete an assessment (the "Challenge") to qualify for the program and demonstrate an ability to generate profits and manage risk. Although the capital provided in the OANDA Labs Trader account is virtual, traders are entitled to a share of profits generated in their account. OANDA Labs Traders are given access to our technology and market relationships to help them use their trading skills to create profitable signals.

For more information visit the OANDA Labs Trader website on https://labstrader.oanda.com.

OANDA Labs is also a dedicated content hub within the OANDA Labs Trader website that provides traders with unique, data-driven tools like Market Sentiment and Topical Instruments, as well as a variety of articles with strategic information to help them make better trading decisions.

About OANDA

Founded in 1996, OANDA is one of the world's leading online trading groups, offering multi-asset trading, currency data, and analytics to retail and corporate clients around the globe.

From its roots providing free exchange rate data on the Internet to launching a forex trading platform that helped pioneer web-based currency trading, OANDA remains dedicated to building smarter trading experiences.

With regulated entities in many of the world's most active financial markets, including New York, Toronto, London, Warsaw, Singapore, Tokyo and Sydney, OANDA enables retail clients to trade in a variety of asset classes on an award-winning trading platform. Depending on geographical location, these may include derivatives of global market indices, equities, commodities, treasuries, precious metals, forex, and cryptocurrencies.

For more information visit https://www.oanda.com/group/ or follow OANDA on LinkedIn.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2322146/photo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2322147/OANDA_Labs_Trader___RGB_Dark_Large_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/oanda-unveils-labs-trader-program-302040239.html
EQS-News: Vulcan Energy Resources Limited / Key word(s): Personnel

Appointment of Vulcan Group Chief Financial Officer



22.01.2024 / 07:34 CET/CEST

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Appointment of Vulcan Group Chief Financial Officer Vulcan Energy Resources Limited (Vulcan, ASX: VUL, FSE: VUL, the Company) is pleased to advise that Ms Felicity Gooding has been appointed to the role of Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Vulcan Group. Highlights Ms Gooding is a Senior Finance executive and leader with over 20 years' experience in strategic and financial analysis, debt funding (including acting as joint project leader in obtaining expansion finance for Fortescue Limited totalling US$3.5b), corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, management and financial accounting and governance within Australia, Singapore, London and Washington DC. Her experience has been gained across multiple industries relevant to Vulcan including energy, mining and infrastructure, including most recently as CFO and Global Head of Commercial at Fortescue Future Industries, where she led the finance team, including the specialist project financing team responsible for securing finance to enable financial investment decisions for green energy projects. Prior to this, Ms Gooding was the Deputy CEO at the Minderoo Foundation and Chief Operating Officer and CFO of both the Minderoo Foundation and Tatterang, Andrew and Nicola Forrest's private family office and investment vehicle. She has significant director experience, having served on the boards of Poseidon Nickel, the Freedom Fund, Impact Minerals Limited, and Zhero BV1, among others. Ms Gooding is also a fellow of the Australian Institute of Chartered Accountants and a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Ms Gooding's extensive experience with large-scale financing will assist the Company during the financing of the multiple phases of Vulcan's Zero Carbon Lithium Project, of which Phase 1 financing is already under way, and is an opportune appointment at the current stage of the Company's development. As part of the planned change reflective of the stage of the Company's growth, Mr Robert Ierace will step down from his role as CFO-Australia effective 15 January 2024, however he will remain with the Company until the end of March to assist Ms Gooding and ensure a smooth transition. The Company would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Ierace for his invaluable hard work and efforts during his tenure in which the Company has experienced significant growth and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours. Managing Director and CEO, Cris Moreno commented: "We are delighted with the appointment of Ms Gooding and believe her extensive global CFO experience will be important in Vulcan's next stage of commercial growth. "Ms Gooding has worked across capital markets, debt and equity structures and brings a wealth of knowledge in the financing of major projects." 1 Zhero BV is a focused developer of green and clean energy projects, such as renewables, H2 and derivatives, interconnections, energy storage and repurposing. About Vulcan Founded in 2018, Vulcan's unique Zero Carbon Lithium Project aims to decarbonise lithium production, through developing the world's first net carbon neutral lithium business, with the co-production of renewable geothermal energy on a mass scale. By adapting existing technologies to efficiently extract lithium from geothermal brine, Vulcan aims to deliver a local source of sustainable lithium for Europe, built around a net zero carbon strategy with exclusion of fossil fuels. Already an operational renewable energy producer, Vulcan will also provide renewable electricity and heat to local communities. Vulcan's combined geothermal energy and lithium resource is the largest in Europe [1] , with license areas focused on the Upper Rhine Valley, Germany. Strategically placed in the heart of the European electric vehicle market to decarbonise the supply chain, Vulcan is rapidly advancing the Zero Carbon Lithium Project to target timely market entry, with the ability to expand to meet the unprecedented demand that is building in the European markets. Guided by our Values of Climate Champion, Determined and Inspiring, and united by a passion for the environment and leveraging scientific solutions, Vulcan has a unique, world-leading scientific and commercial team in the fields of lithium chemicals and geothermal renewable energy. Vulcan is committed to partnering with organisations that share its decarbonisation ambitions and has binding lithium offtake agreements with some of the largest cathode, battery, and automakers in the world. As a motivated disruptor, Vulcan aims to leverage its multidisciplinary expert team, leading geothermal technology and position in the European EV supply chain to be a global leader in producing zero fossil fuel, net carbon neutral lithium while being nature positive. Vulcan aims to be the largest, most preferred, strategic supplier of lithium chemicals and renewable power and heating from Europe, for Europe; to empower a net zero carbon future. Corporate Directory Executive Chair Dr. Francis Wedin Managing Director and CEO Cris Moreno Deputy Chair Gavin Rezos Non-Executive Director Ranya Alkadamani Non-Executive Director Annie Liu Non-Executive Director Dr. Heidi Gron Non-Executive Director Josephine Bush Non-Executive Director Dr. Gunter Hilken Non-Executive Director Mark Skelton Chief Representative GER Dr. Horst Kreuter Company Secretary Daniel Tydde For and on behalf of the Board Daniel Tydde | Company Secretary Media and Investor Relations contact Australia and international: Annabel Roedhammer, Vice President Communications and Investor Relations | aroedhammer@v-er.eu | +49 (0) 1511 410 1585 Please contact Vulcan's Legal Counsel Germany, Dr Meinhard Grodde, for matters relating to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange listing on mgrodde@v-er.eu . Reporting calendar 29 January 2024 December Quarterly 28 March 2024 Annual Report 27 April 2024 March Quarterly 12 September 2024 Half Year Report

[1] According to public, JORC-compliant data. See Upgrade of Zero Carbon Lithium Project Resources, 29 September 2023



22.01.2024 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

Archive at www.eqs-news.com


January 1, 2024 marks an historic milestone for Credit Commercial de France. Founded in 1917, CCF is now making its return to the French market

CCF remains true to its initial ambition by providing high-end personalized support to its clients. The cornerstone of its mission lies in prioritizing customer relationships, emphasizing the agility and simplicity of processes, and placing these principles at the core of its purpose and activities.

As the bank opens a new chapter, the same relationship managers continue to support customers in their financial and wealth projects.

CCF Group demonstrates a robust financial profile, characterized by a balance sheet exceeding 30 billion euros and a high-quality asset portfolio. The Group has a resilient financial profile, with a core capital ratio of more than 15% of CET1 and over 10 billion euros of available liquidity.

Regulatory News:

An iconic player in the banking landscape since created in 1917 and still deeply anchored in the collective memory of the French, CCF embarks on a new and exciting journey in 2024, positioning itself as a wealth bank with a human scale. CCF provides tailored-made support to both individuals and professionals, offering a combination of relational excellence, expertise, and a commitment to fluidity and simplicity.

Chad Leat, Chairman of the Group CCF Board of Directors, declares:

"I am very proud to announce the completion of the acquisition of HSBC Continental Europe's retail banking activities and the reintroduction of the CCF brand, a storied French brand associated with quality, trust and success. The Group reaffirms its historical dedication to delivering exemplary retail banking and wealth management services. On behalf of the Board, I want to congratulate the entire CCF team, from branches to head offices, for the terrific work in the past two years to make this historic operation come true."

Niccolo Ubertalli, CEO of CCF Group, comments:

"We are ready to relaunch the prestigious CCF on the French market, capitalizing on an extremely solid financial foundation in terms of capital and liquidity. I warmly thank the Board for its support and trust throughout this monumental effort and the CCF Group team for its resilience and dedication. Let me welcome our customers and thank them for their trust: all our teams are fully mobilized to support them in the best conditions and to build with them their financial and patrimonial projects of tomorrow."

CCF, a recognized player in the French banking history

For over a century, CCF has been at the forefront of delivering personalized and innovative wealth banking and financial products and services tailored for high-end clients. Leveraging the expertise of its relationship managers, the bank provides support to its customers at all important moments of their journeys and projects, through a privileged relationship of trust, as close as possible to their needs.

A solid and reliable bank, committed to its customers

To support its customers in an efficient and meaningful way in their daily lives, CCF focuses on relational excellence, a core value of the company and a priority shared by the teams.

At CCF, customers benefit from a stable and accessible relationship manager, marking it easier to understand each individual's needs and expectations on a daily basis. The support is based on the simplicity and effectiveness of exchanges, coupled with the expertise, knowledge and mastery of the offered solutions.

CCF leverages a robust network of 244 branches and a team of nearly 3,500 employees, ready to serve 800 000 customers. The bank manages assets of nearly 24 billion euros, 15 billion euros in customer loans and 20 billion euros in deposits.

CCF Group, that includes activities of specialized financing, has a balance sheet exceeding 30 billion euros characterized by a high-quality asset base (CCF non-performing loans ratio is less than 1,5%). Its solvency is robust, featuring CET1 basic capital ratio exceeding 15% at acquisition. Its financial strength is further reinforced by high liquidity, with a cash position of around 10 billion euros.

CCF's objective is to progressively broaden the range of solutions offered in the management of their accounts, their financial projects, and their assets, by leveraging on the expertise of the best actors in the French market.

About CCF

Created in 1917, CCF opens a new chapter in its history on 1 January 2024.

French, wealth and human scale bank, CCF offers tailor-made support to individuals and professionals. CCF provides relational excellence, expertise as well as fluidity and simplicity.

CCF has its headquarters located at 103 rue de Grenelle, Paris 75007 and has a network of banking branches throughout France.

More information on ccf.fr

About CCF Group

CCF Group is a century-old French banking group which is made up of retail banking and specialized financing activities whose mission is to support its customers in bringing their projects to life. CCF Group is convinced of its role to play as an employer and as a banker in society, and has made strong commitments around three areas: quality of work life, diversity and inclusion, as well as environment.

CCF Group also benefits from a strong governance, with a Board of Directors and a Management Committee made up of experienced members.

Retail banking activities are operated under CCF brand, which has a network of branches across France.

Specialized financing activities focus on lending to individuals as well as specialized financing for businesses.

CCF Group operates in France and its headquarters are located at 103 rue de Grenelle, Paris 75007.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240118640014/en/

Contacts:

Isabelle Duvernay isabelle.duvernay@ccf.fr 0033 7 86 96 93 12

Stephanie Tabouis stephanie.tabouis@publicisconsultants.com 0033 6 03 84 05 03
Company extended end-to-end UtilityAI offerings to energy providers throughout North America, Europe, Australia, India and the United Arab Emirates

Bidgely today announced that, in 2023, the company achieved its highest ever new annual sales. A significant proportion of this uptick was driven by Bidgely's existing customer base expanding their adoption of Bidgely's energy artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. The company also closed its largest new customer sales, entering partnerships with nearly a dozen new energy providers in new regions and markets around the world. With this growth, Bidgely is well-positioned to become profitable in 2024.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122268983/en/

Bidgely achieved its highest ever new annual sales in 2023 as the company supports fundamental shifts in the utility industry. (Graphic: Business Wire)

"The increasing number of customers choosing to expand their solutions across multiple grid and customer use cases with us proves utilities prefer and value a well-designed platform approach. They're accomplishing the same outcomes from one vendor with less IT burden and lower costs overall," said Abhay Gupta, CEO of Bidgely. "To this effect, we continue to see utilities combine programs into one consolidated journey to bridge the gap between the customer and grid sides of the meter."

For example, one East Coast utility is expanding its partnership with Bidgely to execute an end-to-end energy efficiency solution that aligns with new time-of-use (TOU) regulatory priorities while continuing to promote significant energy savings and customer engagement. Backed by AI-powered energy insights, Bidgely's Home Energy Reports, electric vehicle (EV) charging engagement tools and digital bill/usage alerts will help the utility's customers better manage their energy usage, saving on electricity costs as well as building a more positive relationship with the utility.

Key Industry Evolutions from 2023

This growing adoption of Bidgely's solutions is driven by several fundamental shifts in the utility industry. Firstly, utilities are facing more scrutiny from regulators than ever before when it comes to Integrated Resource Planning (IRP).

"Many utilities that don't have access to big data-driven insights saw their IRP and grid asset investment budgets rejected by the regulators as the plans proposed over-investment without surgical planning," said Gautam Aggarwal, chief revenue officer at Bidgely.

"In 2023, three of Bidgely's utility customers used the company's behind-the-meter asset intelligence for both appliances and distributed energy resources (DERs) to gain distribution asset capacity insights," continued Aggarwal. "By understanding which premises and circuits are causing peak loads on grid assets, these customers are able to integrate DER growth analysis into grid planning, asset capacity management as well as non-wire alternative planning into distribution system planning."

"Bidgely's grid planning tools eliminate the blind spots and provide utilities with data that can support their investment plans to ensure regulators recognize that the plan is optimized for cost," concluded Aggarwal.

Another ongoing industry trend is the increased adoption of next generation smart meters that will leverage AI at the edge to generate insights, especially as DERs gain traction. In 2023, Bidgely partnered with an industry-leading smart meter technology portfolio company to launch one of the first working Distributed Intelligence (DI) applications on its next-generation smart meters. With this strategic partnership, Bidgely added real-time EV and solar awareness and targeting on the smart meters to better serve in-the-moment peak-time charging and load management decisions. The two companies successfully launched the offering with a southeastern utility, and an additional two utilities are in the active pilot phase.

Finally, utilities continued signing up for EV managed charging projects, most of which stayed in the pilot phase with only a small percentage of EV owners opting in as consumers remain wary of relinquishing control of their EV chargers to utilities. Bidgely's holistic end-to-end EV solution allows utilities to detect EVs on the grid with 90+ percent accuracy, decode charging behavior, and target/engage the right customers. The solution uses a combination of opt-in (telematics) and opt-out (non-telematics) approaches thereby ensuring large user participation and maximum load shift at one-third the cost compared to other non-targeted EV managed charging solutions. Four of Bidgely's utility partners are already benefiting from this comprehensive and cost effective solution.

UtilityAI Platform Expansions

In addition to providing its utility partners with industry-leading customer experience and energy efficiency solutions, Bidgely successfully launched and deployed a suite of new AI-powered offerings aimed at addressing utilities' most pressing initiatives in 2023, including:

Enhanced small and medium-sized business (SMB) energy support tools. Five utility customers including a West Coast energy provider have partnered with Bidgely to adopt these tools to increase SMB engagement through enhanced targeting, enrollment, and program adoption strategies.

Five utility customers including a West Coast energy provider have partnered with Bidgely to adopt these tools to increase SMB engagement through enhanced targeting, enrollment, and program adoption strategies. Behind-the-Meter (BTM) targeting to support electrification, fuel-switching, heat pump adoption, and inefficient appliance upgrade initiatives as well as provide a non-telematics approach to EV load management.

to support electrification, fuel-switching, heat pump adoption, and inefficient appliance upgrade initiatives as well as provide a non-telematics approach to EV load management. DER Grid Planning, including 8760 Energy Insightswhich enables utilities to identify trends, predict future grid patterns, and better understand the load impact on grid-facing assets with greater precision, flexibility, and agility.

Global Expansions

In addition to strengthening relationships with its North American customers, Bidgely also expanded its global footprint.

Bidgely has been awarded large multiyear, multimillion dollar deals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), expanding their UtilityAI solution to serve smart meter data in UAE and building momentum in the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The company also signed a partnership with Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, and the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) (PJSC). Bidgely is also in the process of signing large, multiyear contracts in Europe and Australia.

In the newly-emerging markets like India, Bidgely has developed and field validated its theft detection solution with large state-owned utilities. India suffers from a USD 10 billion energy theft problem, which is one of the main drivers of smart meter adoption in the country.

Industry Leadership and Accolades

Bidgely was once again recognized as a "Leader" in customer engagement by both Guidehouse Insights and IDC MarketScape. The company was also named a finalist in the S&P Global Energy Awards 'Grid Edge' category for the third consecutive year.

Bidgely also hosted two UtilityAI Executive Innovation Collaborative (UEIC) events in 2023. In roundtable and workshop sessions, Bidgely led discussions with executives from organizations such as Duke Energy, Tennessee Valley Authority, Smart Electric Power Alliance (SEPA), NV Energy, Rocky Mountain Power, PacifiCorp, Avista, FortisBC, Ameren, SDGE, OG&E and others.

To learn how utilities worldwide are leveraging AI-powered energy insights, read Empowering Utilities with True, Behind-the-Meter Disaggregation: Bidgely's Proven Approach and Real-World Impact.

About Bidgely

Bidgely is an AI-powered SaaS Company accelerating a clean energy future by enabling energy companies and consumers to make data-driven energy-related decisions. Powered by our unique patented technology, Bidgely's UtilityAI Platform transforms multiple dimensions of customer data such as energy consumption, demographic, and interactions into deeply accurate and actionable consumer energy insights. We leverage these insights to empower each customer with personalized recommendations, tailored to their individual personality and lifestyle, usage attributes, behavioral patterns, purchase propensity, and beyond. From a Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and Grid Edge perspective, Bidgely is advancing smart meter innovation with data-driven solutions for solar PVs, EV detection, EV behavioral load shifting and managed charging, energy theft, short-term load forecasting, grid analytics, and TOU rate designs. Bidgely's UtilityAI energy analytics provides deep visibility into generation, consumption for better peak load shaping and grid planning, and delivers targeted recommendations for new value-added products and services. With roots in Silicon Valley, Bidgely has over 16 energy patents, $75M+ in funding, retains 30+ data scientists, and brings a passion for AI to utilities serving residential and commercial customers around the world. For more information, please visit www.bidgely.com or the Bidgely blog at bidgely.com/blog.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122268983/en/

Contacts:

Christine Bennett

Bidgely

press@bidgely.com
Continuing its impressive growth, award-winning leader in enterprise documentation infrastructure, Arteria AI, announced that senior banker, Kay Hayre, has joined the company as its latest Strategic Account Director.

Hayre joins Arteria AI from Bank of New York Mellon, where she was a Senior Director, and Head of Business Development for UK and Ireland in the Asset Servicing and Digital Division. Hayre led business development initiatives across UK/Europe, primarily focused on asset managers, banks, broker dealers, insurance and asset owners. Prior to this, Hayre was Managing Director, UK Asset Manager Solutions for State Street. Hayre also held key positions at BNP Paribas Securities Services and IBM UK.

Based in London, Hayre will be responsible for driving new business with a particular focus on large financial institutions.

"I immediately recognized the value of Arteria's approach to unlocking the data within financial institutions' documentation processes," said Hayre. "I'm excited to join the company during this dynamic time of growth and look forward to contributing to our ongoing success."

"We are thrilled to welcome Kay to the Arteria team," said Abrar Huq, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Arteria AI. "With a deep background in financial services and specific expertise in securities services, Kay brings a deep understanding of our problem set and the needs of our clients. She shares our commitment to top-tier client service and will play an integral role in our growth."

Arteria AI has recently appointed a number of experienced financial industry professionals to its growing team, including Donna Mansfield, former Managing Director, Global Manager Derivative Documentation and Policy Group at Goldman Sachs; Samantha Lippitt, formerly the Head of Electronic Sales for State Street Global Markets; and Larry Lawrence, former Managing Director and Head of Credit Sales for Societe Generale.

Arteria AI's platform has been deployed at some of the world's largest financial institutions, and was recently included in the CB Insights AI 100, listing the most promising private AI companies across the globe. As well as a 2023 Finovate Awards Winner, Arteria AI was identified by Gartner as one of three companies in its recently released "Cool Vendors in Applying Generative AI to Banking" report. The company remains committed to empowering its clients by providing them with fast, intelligent document processing capabilities that streamline their operations, reduce inefficiencies, provide valuable insights, enhance compliance and improve their overall documentation experience.

About Arteria AI

Powered by data, Arteria AI is trusted by the world's largest banks to transform client document processes at enterprise scale working smarter and faster to maximize revenue and save time and cost. Arteria AI's client documentation solution removes the need for legacy manual processes by structuring data during the documentation lifecycle to speed up decision-making processes for all stakeholders with a highly intuitive front-end.

Built by subject matter experts, data scientists and technologists, Arteria AI was recently recognized by CB Insights in the AI 100 rankings, as a 2023 Finovate Awards Winner, and by Gartner as one of three identified companies in its recently released "Cool Vendors in Applying Generative AI to Banking" report. The company's solution unleashes the power of data to help global, regulated financial institutions solve client document complexity at scale. Adopting an innovative data-first approach, our AI-powered enterprise-ready solution takes the friction out of the paper trail.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122790722/en/

Contacts:

Derek Howard

For Arteria AI

derek@williammills.com

678-781-7215
A one-stop resource for expertise and science is now available. Get tip sheets for research stories from Asia.

CAMBRIDGE, England and PENANG, Malaysia, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia Research News, the unrivalled leader of scientific news and experts for Asia, is set to sail into its 20th year with celebrations converging two decades of experience, distilled into a hub to empower science reporting.

In February, an enhanced system to Experts for Media will give journalists easy access to a vast network of universities. Journalists can send in requests and we will source expertise recommendations from universities. Think of Experts for Media as your backstage pass to top-notch expertise, with scientists handpicked by universities to amplify your story.

Additionally, we've curated our experiences over two decades into The Science Communication Resource , which includes guides, toolkits and fellowships. Whether you're a seasoned journalist looking to strengthen your knowledge, a press officer seeking insights or a researcher looking to develop communication skills, this is your asset.

Dr Magdeline Pokar, CEO and founder of Asia Research News, lays out her vision: "Two decades ago, journalists faced many obstacles seeking information about scientific research. Consequently, we launched Asia Research News - the first research news portal for Asia, a space connecting journalists and universities. Now, we are looking to empower a vibrant ecosystem where accurate information is easily available".

Journalists are invited to check out our Newsroom , with science, technology, medical and humanities embargoed press releases straight from the powerhouses of Asia's universities, learn more about researchers and institutions keen to connect with journalists, and delve into our Giants in History segment on Asia's science pioneers. All content is yours for the taking, with credit to Asia Research News. For women science communicators, we also have a monthly SciCom Coffee chat.

The Experts for Media service will be available to registered journalists only. Media credentials will be required during registration. This system will be in Beta phase initially, thus available for feature articles with longer deadlines.

Secure your front-row seat to innovation. Register for an account and enjoy the World of Science Communication with Asia Research News - every click sparks a new discovery, and every page turns into a journey of scientific wonder!

For two decades, Asia Research News has built a diverse network of researchers and institutes. Get in touch to join our community or visit asiaresearchnews.com.

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Most comprehensive and largest independent research on the consulting sector confirms 11% growth in 2023, 9% growth expected this year and a return to double digits in 2025 (11%)

Growth in one of Britain's highest performing sectors returns to more sustainable levels following 20%+ records post pandemic

AI and digital technology expertise on adaptation and adoption for clients as well as cost efficiency programmes will generate the biggest opportunities this year for consulting firms

The background of consultants in modern Britain redefined as latest stats show more young consultants have never been to university than have attended Oxbridge

Seven in 10 consultants are more satisfied with their job due to the widespread adoption of hybrid working

LONDON, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A readjustment to more sustainable levels of growth for the consulting sector is expected in the next 12 to 24 months according to the latest survey undertaken by the MCA, the Management Consultancies Association. In the largest piece of research ever conducted by independent research firm Savanta Comres. The report reveals that AI and digital technology expertise is expected to be the area in most demand by clients as well as cost efficiency programmes but that there are concerns from leaders around the performance of the UK economy (41%) and the impact of reduced client spending (43%) as well as the broader global outlook for the economy.

The latest MCA figures show that consulting activity is expected to have grown by 11% in 2023 and 9% growth is expected this year with 11% growth next year, showing a continued strong performance in comparison with the rest of the economy. 73% of consulting leaders say growth met or exceeded expectations last year slightly lower than the previous year (85%) showing that growth is returning to more sustainable levels following an unprecedented period of client demand post pandemic when the sector achieved over 20% growth rates.

Several factors have contributed to the continued demand by clients including the requirement for expertise in specific areas such AI and digital technology and 94% of consultants believe client services related to AI and emerging technology will provide the biggest opportunity for expansion in consulting this year. However, some areas are expected to experience less growth for example in advisory on deals and a quarter of leaders predict consulting in the Retail and Leisure sector is most likely to continue to experience a slowdown in activity. Although still increasing, sustainability services are also predicted to grow at a slower rate as clients face economic challenges and focus more on the day to day running of their businesses.

Over 100,000 management consultants work in the industry in over 350 offices across the UK with 270 locations based outside of London and the survey is the biggest ever conducted of all consultants from leaders to the newest recruits who have joined the profession. The data collected confirms the increased diversity of talent working in the profession with more young consultants now recorded as never having attended university than have been to Oxbridge. The lower number of consultants who attended a Russell Group university also indicates that the industry is increasingly more inclusive attracting a broader pool of talent with firms now very much focused on the importance of social mobility. The percentage of young consultants who attended a Russell Group university has remained consistent with last year at 35% having declined from a peak of 73% in 2011.

Hybrid working continues to have a positive effect on those working in consulting with 69% reporting more satisfaction with their job due to its widespread adoption. It has also helped to make the sector more attractive to work in (72% v 64% in 2023) as firms optimise their remote working processes. It also contributed to a better work-life balance (28%) compared to the previous year with more women saying it has improved (34%) in the last 12 months compared to 26% of men.

Tamzen Isacsson, MCA Chief Executive, said:

"The outlook for our sector looks positive in 2024 and beyond despite the challenging economic conditions at home and abroad which confirms that at times of uncertainty clients rely on trusted advisors and are looking to our sector for specialist expertise on the safe adoption of AI, new technology and for boosting productivity and cost efficiencies. Business confidence however thrives in stable political and economic environments and 2024 is a busy year for elections across the world which could impact the broader economic outlook and growth rates for our sector. As a country we should be proud of our position as a leading centre for professional services in the world and encouraged by the continued growth in one of our highest performing sectors.

"It's clear that the shift to more hybrid working has made employees happier and the challenge will be to ensure the balance is right for everyone through seizing all the advantages of digital working and its flexibility and at the same time harnessing all the benefits of face to face working and its beneficial impact for learning and development and face to face interaction with clients and teams. As a sector that often leads by example our job will be to find the new positive and more complicated path forward in the world of working."

The impact of AI features greatly in the results of the MCA Member Survey 2024. Nearly all respondents (94%) believed that client advice and services relating to AI and emerging technologies will increase in the next year while over half (53%) said they were already using AI, including 75% of consultants working in the Big 4 firms. It is most used for searching for information (57%), enabling teams to use AI models (56%) and well as data analysis (54%) with benefits cited around improving time management. Adapting to AI developments (33%) is one of several challenges expected by the management consulting industry alongside reduced spend by clients (43%) and the general slowdown of the UK economy (41%). With a UK General Election expected in the Autumn, the uncertainty around the political landscape (28%) will also be challenging to the sector.

Independent market research agency Savanta partnered with the MCA to collect and analyse member data for the 2024 report. Further information can be found at www.mca.org.uk.

Notes to Editors:

The Management Consultancies Association (MCA):

The MCA is the representative body for the UK's leading management consulting firms. For over 65 years, the MCA has been the voice of the consulting industry, promoting the value of consulting to business, the public sector, media commentators and the general public. The MCA's mission is to promote the value of management consultancy for the economy and society as a whole. The MCA's member companies comprise over 50% of the UK consulting industry work with the vast majority of the top FTSE 100 companies and almost all parts of the public sector. The UK consulting industry is amongst the best in the world and a vital part of the business landscape. Click to see the full list of current MCA members see link.

Compliance with the MCA's tough entry criteria and adherence to the principles of Consulting Excellence means that MCA member companies are widely acknowledged to provide high quality services to their clients. Many of their achievements are recognised in the annual MCA Awards.

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LONDON, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Mintel, the experts in what consumers want and why, is excited to announce the launch of Mintel Leap, the new Market Intelligence AI fundamentally changing how businesses conduct research by answering their most complex questions instantly. The real magic is that Mintel Leap is a closed-loop, generative AI platform built exclusively on Mintel's proprietary research and analyst expertise. With speed, quality and accuracy, Mintel Leap delivers research and recommendations on people, products and categories-vital for businesses looking to inform their innovation and marketing strategies.

By quickly exploring Mintel's wide-ranging data and expert human analysis, Leap delivers succinct responses to brands' everyday prompts-such as: "Analyse the changing demographics of beauty e-commerce consumers and the impact on purchasing habits", "Provide an analysis of the competitive financial services landscape" or "What are current supply chain challenges in the foodservice industry and some potential solutions?" It's so easy to use that everyone from a Junior Strategist to a CMO can quickly understand a new category or shifting consumer trends, freeing their time to focus on more value-added work.

Feedback from Mintel clients has been incredible:

"Mintel Leap has revolutionised our insights discovery process and significantly boosted the efficiency and effectiveness of our workflow. With Leap, we can quickly and easily pinpoint the critical information."

"Mintel Leap will shift bandwidth away from technical work and toward learning and advising decision-makers. We will spend less time writing search queries and more time asking great questions."

"With Mintel Leap, the only thing between me and the entirety of Mintel's knowledge library is a good question."

Matt Nelson, Mintel CEO, said:

"Mintel Leap is an AI game-changer. By utilising cutting-edge generative AI, billions of data points and years' worth of Mintel's unparallelled analyst expertise can now be discovered and summarised in seconds.

"Our clients are beginning to leverage the power of AI to drive organisational efficiency; however, understanding how and where to incorporate AI into business practices isn't always clear. With Mintel Leap's closed-loop generative AI platform, we've eliminated information overload and supercharged our clients' ability to get trusted, data-driven insights faster than ever, saving them valuable time. The implications for improved operational efficiency, product development and marketing strategy are genuinely unrivalled, enabling our clients to make informed decisions quickly and confidently."

Find out more: https://bit.ly/48seT56

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LOS ANGELES, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calibre Scientific is pleased to announce the acquisition of RUWAG Handels AG ("RUWAG" or the "Company"), a provider of diagnostics and life sciences products and services, selling to hospitals, private labs, universities and pharmaceutical companies in Switzerland. This strategic acquisition highlights Calibre Scientific's dedication to broadening its range of products and services for customers within the DACH region.



Over the last 35 years, RUWAG has served the Swiss market across the broader diagnostics space with expertise in infectious diseases, gastroenterology, oncology, autoimmune and microbiology. The Company also provides life sciences products including transfection, cells, media, test kits, gene expression systems and endotoxin testing. In addition, RUWAG supplements its product expertise with its integrated customer service and support capability by providing maintenance and repair services for instrumentation, along with its in-house testing lab.

The RUWAG acquisition strengthens Calibre Scientific's growing platform in Switzerland, a dynamic market for diagnostics and life sciences products given its prominent pharmaceutical industry. "With deep technical product expertise and a complementary service offering, RUWAG has successfully catered to the Swiss market for over three decades," said Ben Travis, Chief Executive Officer at Calibre Scientific. "The addition of RUWAG to the Calibre Scientific family is highly synergistic as it expands our product and service offering in the region and adds a variety of new supplier and customer relationships."

"I am thrilled to embrace this new chapter in RUWAG's history as we become part of the Calibre Scientific family of businesses," said Daniel Rothenbuhler, Managing Director of RUWAG. "The portfolio expansion resulting from this integration empowers us to serve our esteemed customers with even greater excellence and precision."

AboutCalibreScientific

CalibreScientific is a diversified global provider of life science reagents, tools, instruments, and other consumables to lab research, diagnostics, industrial, and biopharmaceutical communities. Calibre Scientific owns a portfolio of life science and diagnostic companies that have an unrivaled ability to address its customers' challenges in their respective markets. Our global reach extends to over 175 countries, empowering customers all over the world. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Calibre Scientific continues to expand its product offering and global footprint to laboratories across a wide array of verticals and geographies.

Formoreinformation,visitwww.investor.calibrescientific.com,orcontact

press@calibrescientific.com.




Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - F3 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FUU) (OTCQB: FUUFF) ("F3" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a property swap agreement (the "Property Swap") with CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. ("CanAlaska"), pursuant to which F3 will receive CanAlaska's Patterson West Property (the "PW Property") in exchange for F3's Hobo Lake Property (the "Hobo Lake Property"), both properties of which are located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan. The north end of the Patterson West Property is located just 7.5 km to the south of F3's JR Zone high grade uranium discovery on its Patterson Lake North Property and it is immediately to the west and contiguous with the F3 Broach Lake Property. The Company will incorporate the PW Property claims into its Broach Lake Property, which together with the PLN and Minto Properties will collectively become the PLN Project.

The PW Property is located in the Patterson Lake area of the Athabasca Basin, and ~12 km west of the Triple R and Arrow uranium deposits. The PW Property claims, totaling 3,015 ha, are ideally situated in relation to F3's other PLN Project properties and through incorporation into the Broach Lake Property will further the Company's objective to maintain a singular focus on its PLN Project and to expand upon the JR Zone discovery. The Hobo Lake Property was not contemplated to be among the 14 exploration projects that will form the basis of the F4 Uranium Corp. spin-out (see the Company's news release dated January 16, 2024).

Property Swap Details

Pursuant to the Property Swap Agreement, each party will retain a 2.5% net smelter returns ("NSR") royalty on all minerals mined, produced or otherwise recovered from the property it swapped, and the counterparty shall have a repurchase right for 1% of the NSR royalty from the royalty holder for $3 million.

F3 Uranium agreed to sell its 100% ownership in 37 mineral claims totaling 14,854 ha comprising the Hobo Lake Project to CanAlaska in consideration for the Patterson West Property, while retaining the above mentioned NSR royalty. Under the same agreement CanAlaska agreed to sell its 100% ownership in the 2 mineral claims totaling 3,015 ha comprising the Patterson West Property to F3 in consideration for the Hobo Lake Property, while retaining the above mentioned NSR royalty.

The Property Swap is an arm's length transaction for the purposes of the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") and qualifies as an "Exempt Transaction" under TSXV Policy 5.3. No finder's fees were paid in connection with the Property Swap.





Figure 1

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Qualified Person

The technical information in this press release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and approved on behalf of the Company by Raymond Ashley, P.Geo., President of F3, and a Qualified Person. Mr. Ashley has verified the data disclosed.

About F3 Uranium Corp.

F3 is a uranium project generator and exploration company, focusing on projects in the Athabasca Basin, home to some of the world's largest high grade uranium discoveries. F3 currently has 18 projects in the Athabasca Basin. Several of F3's projects are located near large uranium discoveries including Triple R, Arrow and Hurricane.

Contact Information

Investor Relations

Telephone: 778 484 8030

Email: ir@f3uranium.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dev Randhawa"

Dev Randhawa, CEO

The TSXV has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this press release, and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws, which is based upon the Company's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, the Property Swap and the timing thereof; the granting of a royalty in respect of each of the PW Property and the Hobo Lake Property; and the potential benefits of the Property Swap and other matters relating to the Property Swap. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "potential", "is expected", "anticipated", "is targeted", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating to: general business and economic conditions; changes in commodity prices; the supply and demand for, deliveries of, and the level and volatility of the price of uranium and other metals; changes in project parameters as exploration plans continue to be refined; costs of exploration including labour and equipment costs; risks and uncertainties related to the ability to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits or surface rights; changes in credit market conditions and conditions in financial markets generally; the ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; the availability of qualified employees and contractors; the impact of value of the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar, foreign exchange rates on costs and financial results; market competition; exploration results not being consistent with the Company's expectations; changes in taxation rates or policies; technical difficulties in connection with mining activities; changes in environmental regulation; environmental compliance issues; other risks of the mining industry; and risks related to the effects of COVID-19. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company's annual filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195106

SOURCE: F3 Uranium Corp.
WIL-31 is the largest prospective prophylaxis study in VWD

WIL-31 is the only study in VWD with a prospective on-demand run-in study as an intra-individual comparator

wilate prophylaxis is highly effective at reducing bleeding rates in children and adults with all types of VWD vs prior on-demand treatment

LACHEN, Switzerland, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Octapharma announced today the publication of the results from the clinical study WIL-31, which investigated the efficacy and safety of prophylaxis with wilate, a von Willebrand factor/factor VIII (VWF/FVIII) concentrate, in patients with all types of von Willebrand disease (VWD). The results have been published in the leading medical journal Blood Advances [Sidonio RF Jr et al. "Von Willebrand factor/factor VIII concentrate (wilate) prophylaxis in children and adults with von Willebrand disease"]

The lead author and Principal Investigator of the WIL-31 study, Robert F. Sidonio Jr, M.D. (Medical Director of Hemophilia at the Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine), commented: "WIL-31 is the largest prospective study to date examining the efficacy and safety of regular prophylaxis in patients with VWD. Importantly, the study included a diverse patient population, including young children and adults, males and females, and all types of VWD. The findings from WIL-31 provide strong evidence to support the use of VWF prophylaxis and have led to the recent addition of wilate prophylaxis as a therapeutic indication for VWD in the US, widening its access to the US patient population."

The WIL-31 study (NCT04052698) was a prospective, multinational, open-label, non-controlled phase III study assessing wilate prophylaxis in preventing bleeds in VWD. Efficacy was assessed in 33 adult and pediatric VWD patients aged 6 years and older from 14 centers in eight countries, with patients receiving wilateprophylaxis two or three times weekly for 12 months. All patients had taken part in a prospective 6-month run-in study (WIL-29) during which they received on-demand treatment with any available VWF concentrate, allowing assessment of the efficacy of prophylaxis at an intra-individual level.

The primary endpoint of the study, >50% reduction in mean total annualized bleeding rate (ABR) during wilate prophylaxis compared with prior on-demand treatment, was met. Mean total ABR during wilate prophylaxis was 5.2 compared with 33.4 during on-demand treatment, representing a decrease of 84%. Mean spontaneous ABR decreased by 87% during wilate prophylaxis compared with on-demand treatment. Reductions in total and spontaneous bleeding were comparable across age groups, bleeding sites and VWD disease types, and between males and females. The majority of patients were dosed twice weekly and the median weekly dose of wilate was relatively low (58 IU/kg) compared to the dose range recommended in the prescribing information.

Seven women with child-bearing potential were included in the study. This allowed the investigators to gain insights into the effect of wilate prophylaxis on heavy menstrual bleeding, which is a major problem in women with VWD as there are limited clinical data on effective treatments. Although the data are based on a small sample size, they suggest that wilate prophylaxis has a positive impact in reducing heavy menstrual bleeding, with 71% (n=5) patients not experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding during wilate prophylaxis.

Prophylaxis with wilate was well tolerated across VWD types, in children and adults, and in males and females. During the 12 months of wilate prophylaxis, there were no serious adverse events related to wilate and no thrombotic events or FVIII accumulation.

"In contrast to haemophilia A, prophylaxis is not standard of care in VWD and less than 10% of patients with severe VWD receive prophylaxis", said Sigurd Knaub, SVP CR&D Haematology. "This is due in part to the scarcity of data from prospective trials. The results of the WIL-31 study help to fill this gap, providing strong evidence for the benefits of a prophylactic strategy in patients with severe VWD. Increasing the adoption of prophylaxis in VWD is expected to lead to improved outcomes and reduced disease burden for people suffering from VWD."

Octapharma would like to thank all participating centers, as well as the patients and their caregivers, for their contribution to the study. Further publications on other analyses from the WIL-31 study are planned.

About wilate

wilate is a high-purity human von Willebrand factor/factor VIII (VWF/FVIII) concentrate, that undergoes two virus inactivation steps during its production1. No albumin is added as a stabiliser1. The purification processes result in a 1:1 ratio of VWF to FVIII that is similar to normal plasma1. wilate contains a VWF triplet structure and content of large high molecular weight multimers similar to normal human plasma1. wilate is available in 500 IU and 1,000 IU presentations2.

wilate is indicated for the prevention and treatment of haemorrhage or surgical bleeding in von Willebrand disease (VWD), when desmopressin (DDAVP) alone is ineffective or contra-indicated, and for the treatment and prophylaxis of bleeding in patients with haemophilia A (congenital factor VIII deficiency)2. The indication for prophylaxis in the US is detailed in the updated prescribing information available here: wilate Full Prescribing Information (wilateusa.com)

About Octapharma

Headquartered in Lachen, Switzerland, Octapharma is one of the largest human protein manufacturers in the world, developing and producing human proteins from human plasma and human cell lines.

Octapharma employs more than 11,000 people worldwide to support the treatment of patients in 118 countries with products across three therapeutic areas: Immunotherapy, Hematology, and Critical Care.

Octapharma has seven R&D sites and five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Austria, France, Germany and Sweden, and operates more than 190 plasma donation centers across Europe and the US. Octapharma has 40 years of experience in patient care.

Octapharma press releases are specifically for health specialist/medical media and are not for consumer press.

Contact:

Ivana Spotakova

Global Communications Manager

Ivana.Spotakova@octapharma.com

+41 79 3474607

References

Stadler M et al. Biologicals 2006; 34:281-8. wilate Summary of Product Characteristics 2023.

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Unifrutti Group has announced the acquisition of Verfrut, a prominent fresh produce grower and exporter with operations in Chile and Peru

The acquisition supports Unifrutti's strategy of building a globally diversified premium fruit platform

The acquisition also complements Unifrutti's product offering by adding a strong table grape and cherry platform to its existing fruit basket

ABU DHABI, UAE, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Unifrutti, a global leader in premium fresh fruits production and distribution, announced the acquisition of 100% of Sociedad Exportadora Verfrut S.A. ("Verfrut"), a key South American fruit producer and exporter.

Established in 1996, Verfrut is a prominent fresh produce player with presence in Chile and Peru, where it operates over 7,500 hectares of fully integrated farming and processing facilities. Verfrut grows a wide array of crops, including grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries, is renowned as the largest exporter of grapes in Peru and relies on a robust commercial and distribution network in the US, the EU, South America, and China.

This acquisition represents an important step in expanding Unifrutti's integrated and sustainable global multi-fruit platform. With Verfrut's inclusion, Unifrutti becomes a major fruit company in Chile, one of the largest production centers for grapes and cherries globally, and a leading apple player in the southern hemisphere. Furthermore, this acquisition strategically extends Unifrutti's reach into Peru, a key hub in the fresh produce sector.

This move aligns with Unifrutti's objective to meet increasing global demand for premium high-quality fruits, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable growth and reinforcing its leadership in the dynamic global fruit industry. The acquisition also extends access to a wider range of premium produce for the Group's customers, with consistent, secure, and diversified supply.

Completion of the acquisition is subject to satisfaction of closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Post-completion, Unifrutti will maintain Verfrut's global operations, ensuring business continuity.

Mohamed Elsarky, Group CEO of Unifrutti, emphasized the strategic significance of this deal, stating: "Our acquisition of Verfrut is a strategic milestone, propelling Unifrutti's growth and reinforcing our commitment to excellence and innovation. This expansion not only enhances our current operations but also paves the way for future growth, as we aim to become the preeminent and most sustainably driven global multi-fruit company, setting new standards in the industry. This transaction also resonates deeply with our shared family-owned heritage, and we are humbled and privileged to be entrusted with Verfrut's 30-year legacy, collaboratively forging a regional champion in Chile and Peru."

Romano Vercellino, founder and President of Verfrut, expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter: "We are making an excellent decision with this transaction. Verfrut is our life. After many years of hard work together with our great team, we are confident that Unifrutti will maintain our values that have guided us since the establishment of Verfrut. We look forward to the next stage of our successful journey."

About Unifrutti Group:

Unifrutti Group is one of the main global players in the fresh fruit market, vertically integrated in production, marketing and distribution, with more than 14,000 hectares of land in Chile, Italy, the Philippines, and South Africa. The Group oversees the entire value chain and thanks to direct ownership of land located in different climate zones of the world, it is able to serve more than 50 countries all year round, distributing approximately 500,000 tons of fresh fruit to over 500 customers.

Founded in 1948 by Guido de Nadai, Unifrutti now employs more than 11,000 people at its headquarters and operating locations in Japan, Chile, South Africa, the Philippines, Italy, Spain, Uruguay, Turkey, the Middle East, China, and India.

Unifrutti Group is part of ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company with a broad portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of the UAE's diversified economy.

For more information on Unifrutti, please visit www.unifruttigroup.com, write to info@unifruttigroup.com or follow Unifrutti Group on LinkedIn.

About Verfrut:

Founded in 1996 by Romano Vercellino Dellafiori, Verfrut has grown to become one of the largest fruit producers and exporters in Peru and Chile, exporting more than 15 million boxes last season, with a projection of over 25 million boxes in the coming years. With more than 7,500 hectares, it is a fully integrated company that grows, processes and markets 100% of its fruit worldwide.

The company has a diversified product range, the main ones being grapes, cherries, stone fruits, apples and others, and a solid and geographically varied commercial reach thanks to its commercial platforms in the US, Asia, EU and South America.

For more information, visit www.verfrut.cl.

Media contact:

Alessandro Gonzato

+357 99 421657

alessandro.gonzato@unifruttigroup.com

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VANCOUVER, BC and HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV)(OTCQX:RSNVF)(FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna' or the "Company") is pleased to share results from ExploreTech's Artificial Intelligence (AI) optimization of existing geophysical data from the Guigui Project in Chihuahua, Mexico. ExploreTech's proprietary AI algorithms highlight a strong, multi-layered magnetic anomaly southeast of the 0.5 sq. kilometre sulphide-mineralized skarn footprint identified in 2022 drilling (See Press Release from April 7, 2022 ). The results reinforce existing geological thinking that the intrusive source for the district lies in that area and greatly enhance the area's potential (Figure 2). Pads to drill the target are already permitted and accessible.

The Guigui Project covers the southern part of the Santa Eulalia District -one of the world's largest Carbonate Replacement Deposits ("CRDs") with over 500 Million ounces of historical silver production. Reyna's CRD exploration model indicates that the intrusive source and proximal mineralized skarn for the system remain to be found, and ExploreTech's AI approach to modeling the existing geophysics is specifically designed to augment surface-based geological work to locate that intrusive source beneath extensive, but thin, pre-mineral volcanic rock cover.

ExploreTech's platform first uses AI to identify and locate where a geophysical anomaly actually is and then design the optimum hole geometry to hit it. The first step searches a geophysical survey dataset and calculates thousands of possible explanations for anomalies measured at the surface (See exploretech.ai for additional information). For CRDs, the search focuses on solutions most likely to be caused by a source intrusion. This process generates thousands of candidate models that the program then evaluates in 3 dimensions to determine the optimal drilling trajectory to pierce as many of these potential intrusion-related anomalies as possible (See Figure 1).

ExploreTech's use of AI to reveal and reinforce target anomalies in existing geophysical datasets appears to be a significant new exploration tool and Reyna intends to apply it to the extensive existing datasets for its Gryphon Summit and Medicine Springs CRD projects in Nevada.

"We are delighted with the strength and coherence of the anomaly ExploreTech has modeled in the part of Guigui where we've been homing in on the source intrusion for the Santa Eulalia District, and we really look forward to drilling their optimized hole," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy CEO of Reyna Silver. "The results already make a compelling case to immediately apply their AI approach to our new geophysics (AMT) from Medicine Springs and the treasure trove of geophysics that we inherited with Gryphon."

"What really gets my attention, beyond the strength and coherence of the target generated by ExploreTech's cutting-edge AI approach to the geophysics, is the fact that it highlights a target that our Project Geologist, Rene Ramirez, has been championing for several years," said Dr. Peter Megaw, Chief Exploration Advisor to Reyna Silver. "Exploring through cover is not easy, so having this kind of tool to combine with boot-leather geology and sharpen our targeting at Guigui and our Nevada projects may be an important exploration advance across the board."

Figure 1. A 3D cross-section of the Magnetic Body in grey highlighted by ExploreTech's work underlying the Area of Interest identified southeast of the 2021 Drilling Program. The thin volcanic layer obscuring the Carbonate rocks (limestone) is in dark green. The optimized drill hole aims to intersect the highest percentage of the optimized geophysics layers possible.

Click here to watch video about the ExploreTech optimized Geophysics at Guigui.

Figure 2. Plan view of the Aeromag geophysics survey over the Guigui project (prior to the acquisition of La Chinche) with previous drillhole collars and downhole traces shown in dark grey. The magnetic feature in the Area of Interest showcases the sharp contrast between the conductive feature displayed in red and the surrounding resistive terrain in blue.

The ExploreTech partnership with Reyna Silver highlighted an area of interest, entirely covered by altered pre-mineral volcanics, lying southeast of the center of the previous drilling (See Press Release from April 7, 2022 ). Reyna had data from two previous geophysical surveys over the area, so applying ExploreTech's cutting-edge xFlare program to this blind target was an ideal opportunity to sharpen and de-risk the target (Figure 2). xFlare AI makes multiple model runs on the data, varying parameters between runs to generate a range of model solutions. These are then combined and the best-fitting models stack into clusters representing the tightest approximation of where the anomaly lies. Once this is accomplished, the program designs a drill hole that passes through the centers of as many of the individual anomalies as possible, again enhancing the ability to reliably test whatever feature is creating the anomaly (See Figure 1 and explainer video )

The result of this process at Guigui is a Magnetic anomaly lying 1000-1200m deep, 400-800m southeast of the 0.5 by 1.25 km area where previous drilling encountered sulfide-mineralized skarn (See Press Release from April 7, 2022 ). This is very close to where the previous drilling and our exploration model suggest a strong candidate for where the source intrusion should lie. The DrillerAPI subroutine of xFlare shows a high probability of intersecting the magnetic anomaly with a 1500m hole drilled from a previously permitted pad.

Application of ExploreTech Modeling to Nevada Properties

Reyna recently ran an aerial Magneto Telluric (MT) survey at Medicine Springs that revealed a conductive anomaly underlying the altered and silicified carbonates that yielded the strongest surface copper geochemical anomaly in the project area. This combination of anomalies is interpreted as reflecting a possible intrusive center hidden under alluvial cover just northeast of the reconnaissance drilling area (See Press Release from November 8, 2023 ). The parallels between the source intrusion targets at Guigui and Medicine Spring make applying ExploreTech's approach here a logical next step.

Reyna's Gryphon Summit Gold, Silver and critical metals project came with 39 kilometres of IP, 17 kilometres of CSAMT and NSAMT, gravimetric, hyperspectral, and lidar-like surveys. ExploreTech's capability to quickly process large datasets like these will enable Reyna Silver's technical team to optimize the incorporation of these geophysics datasets for its 2024 drilling program. The targets will focus on the intrusion-centered porphyry-CRD mineralization and the Carlin-type mineralization that previous work indicates overlap on the property (See Press Release November 29, 2023 ).

QUALIFIED PERSON

Dr. Peter Megaw, Ph.D., C.P.G., the Company's Chief Exploration Advisor and Qualified Person, reviewed the technical aspects of the exploration projects described herein and is responsible for the design and conduct of the exploration program and the verification and quality assurance of analytical results. Dr. Megaw is not independent as he and/or companies with which he is affiliated hold Net Smelter Royalties on the Guigui and Batopilas Projects that predate Reyna Silver acquiring them.

ABOUT REYNA SILVER

Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV: RSLV) is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company focused on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and USA.

Reyna's principal properties are the Guigui and Batopilas Properties in Chihuahua, Mexico. Guigui covers the interpreted source area for the Santa Eulalia District and Batopilas covers most of Mexico's historically highest-grade silver system. The Company also has an option to acquire 100% of the Medicine Springs property in Nevada, USA as well as the early stage La Durazno and Matilde and La Reyna mineral properties in Mexico.

Cautionary Statements This document contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. All statements other than statements of historical fact herein, including, without limitation, statements regarding exploration results and plans, and our other future plans and objectives, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, our estimates of exploration investment, the scope of our exploration programs, and our expectations of ongoing administrative costs. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and future events and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time via SEDAR with the Canadian regulatory agencies to whose policies we are bound. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements should conditions or our estimates or opinions change, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, including risks associated with mineral exploration, price volatility in the mineral commodities we seek, and operational and political risks. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Reyna Silver Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding term sheet (the "Term Sheet") pursuant to which Steppe Gold, either directly or through a wholly-owned subsidiary, will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the "BG Common Shares") of Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold") in an all-share transaction (the "Proposed Transaction").

Transaction Highlights:

Boroo Gold is a leading gold producer with an average gold production of over 60,000 oz per annum and an expected mine life of beyond 2030.

Creation of a leading gold producer in Mongolia with a near-term production target of 200,000 oz per annum including the committed ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion.

Steppe Gold's production is expected to increase from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

Total gold production is expected to rise to approximately 160,000 oz per annum in 2026 as Steppe Gold's ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion comes on stream.

The Proposed Transaction is expected to add to the over 4,000,000 oz AuEq existing resource base of Steppe Gold.

Boroo parties have the first right to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru following the completion of the Proposed Transaction at fair market value.

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and CEO of Steppe Gold, stated: "The Boroo Gold acquisition will establish Steppe Gold as Mongolia's largest and leading gold producer. Our production is expected to triple over the next two years to 90,000 ounces and 160,000 ounces by 2026, increasing our financial strength to repay the non-dilutive US$150M project financing for the ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion and to advance our exploration portfolio. It also provides shareholders with improved optionality at our Tres Cruces gold project in Peru while maintaining our focus on growing our production profile in Mongolia."

Proposed Transaction Details

Pursuant to the Term Sheet, Steppe Gold will acquire all of the BG Common Shares in consideration of the issuance of that number of common shares of Steppe Gold that results in Boroo Pte Ltd. ("Boroo PL"), the beneficial shareholder of Boroo Gold, directly or indirectly holding a 58.8% interest in Steppe Gold (calculated on a fully-diluted basis) upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to the negotiation of definitive agreements ("Definitive Agreements") which will be negotiated during an exclusivity period ending on March 18, 2024 (subject to extension by both parties). The Definitive Agreements are expected to include customary representations, warranties, deal protections, including non-solicitation covenants and reciprocal expense reimbursement in certain circumstances. Steppe Gold has also agreed to give Boroo PL certain registration rights.

Additionally, for a period of six months following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Boroo PL, and/or its associates will have a right of first refusal to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project located in Peru through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Anacortes Mining Corp., at fair market value.

The conditions to execution of the Definitive Agreements include but are not limited to: (i) completion and satisfaction of due diligence (at the full discretion of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL); (ii) absence of a material adverse change in respect of Steppe Gold or Boroo Gold, as applicable; (iii) approval by each of Steppe Gold's and Boroo PL's board of directors to enter in the Definitive Agreement; and (iv) negotiation of Definitive Agreements in form and substance satisfactory to the parties.

Following the negotiation of the Definitive Agreements the Proposed Transaction will be conditional on the receipt of all necessary regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals, and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by the shareholders of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL.

Steppe Gold and Boroo PL will use best efforts to obtain executed lock-up agreements from certain of their shareholders to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at their applicable meetings. Directors and officers of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL that hold shares of the respective entities, as applicable, will enter into lock-up agreements to agree to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at the meetings.

The parties to the Term Sheet will co-operate to ensure the Proposed Transaction is structured in compliance with Toronto Stock Exchange rules and applicable securities laws, including Multilateral Instrument 61-101, as applicable, as well as with respect to any necessary formal valuations and fairness opinions, which, if required, will be prepared by qualified, independent valuators in due course.

The Term Sheet provides that Boroo PL will have the right to nominate two directors of Steppe Gold and key executive management of Steppe Gold will remain in place. Following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Steppe Gold will be the sole shareholder of Boroo Gold.

Benefits of the Proposed Transaction

The Proposed Transaction is expected to provide meaningful benefits to shareholders of Steppe Gold, including:

Increased production from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum in 2024 and 2025 and 160,000 oz per annum by 2026.

Strong cash flow and increased financial strength to service ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion debt and project financing.

Funding for exploration programs and further acquisition opportunities in Mongolia.

Increased optionality for the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru.

Creates a multi-asset producer with a strong base and focus in Mongolia.

Advisor

Steppe Gold's legal counsel is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP.

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release regarding Steppe Gold has been reviewed by Enkhtuvshin Khishigsuren, PEng., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Technical Reports

Additional information with respect to Steppe Gold's Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project, including its AuEq resource base, is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold dated November 6, 2022 and entitled "Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project (ATO) 2022 Mineral Resources & Reserves Report (NI 43-101)". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Further, information with respect to Steppe Gold's Tres Cruces Oxide Project is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold, dated August 21, 2023 and entitled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Steppe Gold

Steppe Gold is Mongolia's premier precious metals company and 100% owner of the ATO gold mine and the Uudam Khundii project in Mongolia.

About Boroo Gold

Established in 1997, Boroo Gold LLC is a leading gold producer in Mongolia with over 50,000 tons per day mining fleet, 5,500 tons per day mill and carbon-in-leach circuit gold processing plant, 3,000,000 tons per annum heap leach and carbon-in-columns plant, with a workforce of over 500 people. Boroo Gold LLC operates Boroo mine in Selenge province, as well as owning and operating the adjacent Ulaanbulag mine in Mongolia.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements", and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws collectively "forward-looking statements". These include statements regarding Steppe Gold's intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of the officers and directors of Steppe Gold for Steppe Gold's growth and valuation post-closing and future market conditions for metals.

When used in this news release, words such as "anticipated", "expected", "future", "opportunity", "ongoing", "potential", "proposed", "vision" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "should", "will", "would" or the negative connotation of such terms.

As well, forward-looking statements may relate to future outlook and anticipated events, such as the consummation and timing of the Proposed Transaction; the entering into the Definitive Agreements; the terms and conditions thereof; the proposed board of directors and management team of Steppe Gold following the Proposed Transaction; the length of the exclusivity period; the satisfaction of the conditions precedent to the Proposed Transaction; the strengths, characteristics and potential of the resulting company; the potential for value creation of Steppe Gold shareholders; and discussion of future financial or operational plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto of Steppe Gold and Boroo Gold, including with respect to the ATO gold mine and Tres Cruces gold project.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including those relating to required shareholder, regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals; obtaining sufficient number of lock up agreements; the results of any formal valuation and fairness opinion; exercise of any termination rights under the Term Sheet and the Definitive Agreements; meeting other conditions precedent in the Term Sheet; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Steppe Gold or Boroo PL; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information

Steppe Gold

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Jeremy South, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District 1, Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195096

SOURCE: Steppe Gold Ltd.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Graphano Energy Ltd. (TSXV: GEL) (OTCQB: GELEF) (FSE: 97G0) (the "Company" or "Graphano") is pleased to announce that the recent drilling program on its 100% owned Standard and Lac Aux Bouleaux (LAB) Graphite Properties in Quebec has been completed.

Luisa Moreno, Chief Executive Officer of Graphano, commented: "We are pleased with the drilling campaign and anticipate positive results based on the assessment of the graphite mineralization that was intersected in the majority of the drill holes. We will release the assay results as they become available in the coming weeks."

The Company completed 30 drill holes totaling 3,025 metres during the recent program. At the Standard Mine 17 holes were drilled for a total of 1,991 metres and 13 holes were completed at LAB totalling 1,034 metres.

The Company intends to develop both sites at the same time to feed a centralized beneficiation plant at LAB and is working towards a preliminary mineral resource estimation with Mercator Geological Services.

Discussing the graphite sector, Luisa Moreno commented: "The graphite market is witnessing a significant opportunity driven by increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Tightening markets have emerged due to China's renewed incentives for domestic electric vehicle sales and concerns have escalated as China has imposed controls on specific graphite exports crucial for battery production. Additionally, the U.S. government's guidance that it will limit Chinese content in batteries eligible for electric vehicle tax credits contributes to the evolving landscape and further potential opportunities for North American graphite suppliers."

About Graphano Energy

Graphano Energy Ltd. is an exploration and development company that is focused on evaluating, acquiring and developing energy metals resources from exploration to production.

Graphite is one of the most in-demand technology minerals that is required for a green and sustainable world. The Company's Lac Aux Bouleaux property, situated adjacent to Canada's only producing graphite mine, in Quebec, Canada, has historically been an active area for natural graphite. With the demand for graphite growing in some of the most prominent and cutting-edge industries, such as lithium batteries in electric cars and other energy storage technologies, the Company is developing its project to meet the demands of the future.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Luisa Moreno

Chief Executive Officer and Director

E: info@graphano.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the results of drilling at the Company's Standard Mine Property and Lac Aux Bouleaux Graphite Property, further development of such properties, potential future production by Graphano, and the resource requirements of the electric vehicle sector. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Graphano, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, risks associated with possible accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, risks associated with the interpretation of exploration results, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out the Company's exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Company's business and prospects. These risks, as well as others, are disclosed within the Company's filing on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, the Canadian Securities Administrators' national system that all market participants use for filings and disclosure, which investors are encouraged to review prior to any transaction involving the securities of the Company. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Graphano does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195067

SOURCE: Graphano Energy Ltd.
SugarCRM, provider of the award-winning AI-driven sales automation platform, today announced the global winners of the 2024 SugarCRM Customer Breakthrough Awards.

Winners are:

Customer Experience Breakthrough Award - Empresas ADOC, a Central American retail company, is recognized for using SugarCRM to drive business growth and improve customer engagement.

Using SugarCRM, the company significantly improved customer service quality and customer retention, reduced customer churn while establishing its "Puntos ADOC" loyalty program that attracted over 600,000 members, representing more than 20 percent of total sales.

ADOC has a rich history of using high-quality materials and specialized techniques to produce outstanding products that meet the needs of its customers. ADOC is a customer-driven business supported by a culture dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction and building strong, lasting customer relationships. In addition to its own branded footwear, ADOC also has partnered with international brands, including Hush Puppies, The North Face, CAT, and Steve Madden, to create a complete shopping experience for its customers.

Industry Excellence Breakthrough Award - Reusable Transport Packaging, a leader in sustainable transport packaging solutions, is recognized for using SugarCRM to improve its bottom line, unify customer data, streamline processes, and increase sales efficiency,resulting in a 20 percent revenue growth year over year. A key strategy in its growth is the use of Sugar Market for regular email communications, which keeps customers, distributors, and leads informed about new products, pricing updates, and other relevant industry news.

Marketing Excellence Breakthrough Award - The Swedish Institute (SI), a Swedish government agency, is recognized for its innovative approach to data management and customer engagement. The Sugar Sell and Sugar Market platform integration centralizes data, segments audiences, and automates responses, significantly enhancing marketing efficiency and improving engagement with international students and alumni. The Swedish Institute saw an increase of over 31 percent in lead volume since implementing SugarCRM and boasts a best-in-class 40-to-50 percent open rate on marketing emails.

Sales Excellence Breakthrough Award - J&J Ventures Gaming, LLC, a leader in gaming and amusements and one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., is recognized for implementing Sugar Sell to consolidate customer accounts and interactions into a centralized communication hub across sales, marketing, and account management. Streamlined sales processes have established a new model for sales excellence for the J&J team and its growth in the gaming industry.

Service Excellence Breakthrough Award Super General Company of the Albatha Group in the UAE is recognized for revolutionizing its service operations with Sugar Serve. Working with Sugar partner Ambit Software, Super General successfully implemented a repair and maintenance service platform, including a field management application for efficient case handling and simplified technician dispatching. Due to increased efficiency and workload management, the number of cases per technician has surged by up to 26 percent, alongside a 10 percent increase in first-time fix rates. Other notable achievements include a significant increase in call closure rates and substantial improvements in customer satisfaction scores.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (Asia Pacific) - zazen Water, a provider of alkaline water solutions in Australia, is recognized for its use of SugarCRM to support business growth and customer satisfaction. Through strategic integrations, zazen Water automated its business and customer service operations to streamline high-order volume processing. Notably, during its Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 campaign, zazen Water managed a significant order peak, accomplishing its same-day dispatch promise, which, prior to automation and integration projects, would have required 16 employees.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (EMEA) - FAMO GmbH Co. KG, a German wholesaler of electrical and plumbing products, is recognized for its collaboration with Sugar partner Insignio to deploy SugarCRM for advanced customer data management and opportunity nurturing, the Sugar mobile app with enterprise resource planning (ERP) data integration for field sales support, and Sugar Market for automated newsletters and targeted communications.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (Latin America) - Mac Construtora e Incorporadora (MAC), a leader in construction and development in Sao Paulo, is recognized for the creative use of SugarCRM in the dynamic real estate market. Technology adoption significantly improved lead management and customer engagement, enhancing marketing approaches and project sales, resulting in a substantial increase in sales, ranging from 50 to 94 percent of its real estate agency. This has led to MAC substantially reducing its dependence on partnering with other real estate agencies.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (North America) - Alto-Shaam, providing foodservice equipment solutions to more than 90 countries globally, is recognized for use of SugarCRM to significantly enhance opportunity close rates by 61 percent while achieving up to 600 hours of time savings in marketing and sales efforts to forecast customer needs. The integration of Sugar Sell with Sugar Market has streamlined key processes, improved lead management, and enhanced operational efficiency and global communication.

ISV Technology Partnership Breakthrough Award - FSIoffice, a leading independent office supply company, together with sales-i, are recognized for transforming FSIoffice's CRM strategy from data repository to sales powerhouse, with 40 percent improved sales efficiency. Supported by Sugar partner CRM International, FSIoffice is driving remarkable revenue growth and enhancing customer engagement with Sugar Sell Premier and sales-i for predictive business-to-business sales intelligence.

Reseller Technology Partnership Breakthrough Award - The Joint Corp., the nation's largest provider of chiropractic care through The Joint Chiropractic network, in partnership with Sugar partner Faye, are recognized for driving significant improvements in healthcare operations after transitioning to SugarCRM and Amazon Web Services, with a 40 percent increase in web transaction speed. This transformation allowed The Joint to focus on integrating AI to elevate SugarCRM from a functional tool to a strategic platform for competitive differentiation in the chiropractic care sector.

Judges' Choice Award RTCR,the public transit provider in La Rochelle, France, operating under the Yelo brand, is recognized for significantly enhancing customer service with Sugar Serve, with implementation support by Sugar partner Synolia. The deployment has led to a minimum three percent increase in customer satisfaction and streamlined complaint management, saving agents' time by 50 percent through improved response structuring.

"We're pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 SugarCRM Customer Breakthrough Awards," said Chris Pennington, Chief Customer Officer, SugarCRM. "These customers and partners are recognized for excellence and innovation in letting Sugar's AI-driven CRM platform do the work to make the hard things easier for sales, marketing and service professionals, and for driving breakthrough success and exceptional customer experiences."

About SugarCRM

SugarCRM is a CRM software that helps marketing, sales, and service teams reach peak efficiency through better automation, data, and intelligence so they can achieve a real-time, reliable view of each customer. Sugar's platform provides leading technology in the sales automation, marketing automation, and customer service fields with one goal in mind: to make the hard things easier.

Thousands of companies in over 120 countries rely on Sugar by letting the platform do the work. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sugar is backed by Accel-KKR.

For more information about SugarCRM, visit: www.sugarcrm.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122172335/en/

Contacts:

Erin Lutz

Lutz Public Relations and Marketing (for SugarCRM)

erin@lutzpr.com

949.293.1055

Sarita Kincaid

Vice President, Corporate Communications, SugarCRM

sarita.kincaid@sugarcrm.com

408.913.2090
BioCatch grows ARR by 49% over 2022; Surpasses the $100mm milestone; Achieves cash flow and EBITDA profitability in FY 2023

TEL AVIV, Israel and NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BioCatch, the global leader in digital fraud and money laundering detection and response powered by behavioral biometric intelligence, today announced preliminary results for its fiscal year 2023, achieving 49% annual ARR growth after closing the largest sales quarter in the company's history, on the heels of crossing the $100m ARR milestone in early November 2023.

The record-breaking final fiscal quarter of 2023 completed a momentous year during which BioCatch welcomed 78 new customers and significantly expanded its relationships with existing customers, achieving 126% Net Dollar Retention. The organization's growth continues to be fueled by the rapid adoption of BioCatch Connect, the company's flagship product portfolio. Adoption of BioCatch Connect accelerated in the final months of 2023 with Scam Prevention and Mule Detection solutions sales growing by 390% over 2022. In September 2023, the company released BioCatch Scout, a graphical, next-generation link analysis technology that presents pre-crime interdiction intelligence to reveal the depths of global criminal networks of connected accounts, devices, and individuals associated with fraud or money laundering.

BioCatch continues to see global demand for its world-class protection suite with North America and Latin America each comprising approximately 30% of year-ending ARR and Europe and Asia-Pacific each comprising approximately 20% respectively. The Asia-Pacific region grew more than 80% in 2023 driven by accelerating traction in Southeast Asia and continued momentum in Australia.

The BioCatch Connect portfolio continues to add significant value to community banks and credit unions with ARR from banking technology platform partnerships growing 274% in 2023.

For the full fiscal year 2023, BioCatch recorded significant revenue, operational, and customer satisfaction milestones, including:

Eclipsing historical sales records in three of four selling quarters leading significant overachievement of FY 2023 operating plan.

Significantly expanding customer relationships with new sales to existing customers growing >80% compared with 2022.

Scaling to protect more than 350 million banking customers globally and process more than 9 billion user sessions per month.

Adding 78 new customers to its global roster of 176, which includes 29 of the world's largest retail banks by assets and one of the top three largest telecommunication providers.

Onboarding more than 71 employees in more than 14 countries.

Preventing more than $3.5 billion in fraud since its first customer deployment in 2016.

Expanding relationships with cloud platform providers such as Microsoft.

Welcoming a strategic investment from Sapphire Ventures and Macquarie Group.

Looking ahead, BioCatch projects growing cash flow and EBITDA profitability in fiscal year 2024.

"We are thrilled to invest in BioCatch as a global leader in the detection of, and response to digital fraud and money laundering," said Gary Munitz, Head of Venture Capital (Israel, UK & EMEA). "Having seen BioCatch's commitment to providing fraud prevention solutions to financial institutions, Macquarie Capital has decided to make this investment into BioCatch to further support their business growth."

"It continues to amaze me what is possible with innovation, focus, collaboration, and execution. These were the foundations of our success and over achievement in 2023. We focused on our customers success, on proving the differentiation and value of our technology to our prospects and partners, and on strengthening our world-class operational teams across our business," said Gadi Mazor, CEO of BioCatch. "As we look forward, we are poised to deliver solutions that will forever change how we as a fraud fighting community detect and prevent financial crime and associated illegal activities. Thank you to our customers, our partners, and our employees for a phenomenal 2023, we look forward to delivering unmatched value and growth again in 2024."

About BioCatch

BioCatch stands at the forefront of digital fraud detection and financial crime prevention, pioneering behavioral biometric intelligence grounded in advanced cognitive science and machine learning. BioCatch analyzes thousands of user interactions to support a digital banking environment where identity, trust, and ease coexist. Today, more than 29 of the world's leading 100 banks and 176 of the largest 500 rely on BioCatch ConnectO to combat fraud, facilitate digital transformation, and grow customer relationships. BioCatch's Client Innovation Board, an industry-led initiative featuring American Express, Barclays, Citi Ventures, HSBC, and National Australia Bank, collaborates to pioneer creative and innovative ways to leverage customer relationships for fraud prevention. With more than a decade of data analysis, 90 registered patents, and unmatched expertise, BioCatch continues to lead innovation to address future challenges. For more information, please visit www.biocatch.com .

Media Contact:

Jay Jones

Jay.jones@biocatch.com

404.668.0218

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1843699/biocatch_logo_rgb_2x_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/biocatch-finishes-record-breaking-2023-with-largest-sales-quarter-in-company-history-302039897.html
Lumanity Reorganizes and Expands Strategic Consulting Capabilities

Realigning global, clinical, regulatory, medical, and commercial consulting expertise to facilitate life science clients' complex commercialization journey

Boston, MA., January 22, 2024 - Lumanity, a global strategic services partner, is realigning its strategic consulting capabilities to help clients more effectively create and demonstrate the value of assets throughout the development and commercialization lifecycle.

Lumanity acquired Clarion, a Boston-based life science consultancy, in October 2022. Clarion is now rebranding under Lumanity. In addition, Lumanity is realigning its Commercial, Medical Affairs, and Clinical and Regulatory Strategy teams into a single global Strategy Consulting capability.

Lumanity's Strategy Consulting team helps clients identify and create value inflection points for their assets and organizations throughout the product lifecycle. These inflection points occur at critical investment and execution milestones that ultimately determine the success of a product in the marketplace. The creation of this new Strategy Consulting team best leverages Lumanity's unique and diverse set of deeply experienced strategists, data luminaries, subject matter experts, and proven problem solvers.

"For our clients to navigate the journey from discovery to patient they must facilitate the alignment and exchange of expertise across a broad set of cross-functional experts," said Jon Williams, the CEO of Lumanity. "When we bring unique combinations of our cross-functional experts together, we can partner with our clients to help bring their own teams closer together, resulting in better decision making and innovative, best-fit solutions with far greater impact."

The Strategy Consulting team regularly draws on Lumanity's broader capabilities and expertise in the areas of value demonstration, health economics and outcomes research (HEOR), market access, medical communications, insight, and real-world evidence to assemble and deploy solutions that support the strategic visions of client assets and help demonstrate the value created for all stakeholders.

"Successful value creation for today's complex assets requires assessment of multiple indication choices, alternative development paths, asset profiles, and clearly defined data requirements often demanded by a broad and global set of clinical, payer, and patient stakeholders. By re-aligning our Strategy Consulting teams under common leadership, we are able to leverage the essential expertise to deliver powerful insights regarding how best to shape each asset and organization for success in the markets of tomorrow," stated Tom Murtagh, co-founder of Clarion and Joint Global President of Strategy Consulting of Lumanity.

Lumanity's Strategy Consulting team now consists of over 250 consultants based in the US, UK, and EU. For more information on Lumanity's strategic consulting capabilities, visit its website.

ENDS

About Lumanity

Lumanity is a global strategic services partner built to effectively blend deep scientific, clinical, medical, regulatory, and commercial expertise to support complex client decision-making and execution throughout the asset value creation and demonstration journey. Lumanity powers successful commercialization and empowers patients, providers, payers, and regulators to take timely and decisive action to accelerate and optimize access to medical advances. With offices in North America, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia, and work conducted in over 50 countries, its 1,100+ experts work with nearly all the top pharmaceutical and more than 100 biotech companies around the world. Turning aspiration into reality, Lumanity supports over 50 payer submissions across 20+ countries, launch readiness and commercialization of 80 brands and new indications, and numerous award-winning product campaigns every year. For more information, please visit lumanity.com and connect with Lumanity on Twitter and LinkedIn

CONTACT for Lumanity:

Peter Marangos

+1 702 776 0985 / peter.marangos@lumanity.com
SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland, Jan. 22, 2024, a global leader in cyber protection, today announced a groundbreaking advancement with the native integration of its Advanced Security and Endpoint Detection and Response. This industry-first move not only reinforces Acronis' position at the forefront of cyber protection but also aligns seamlessly with the recognition that traditional security is insufficient against the surge of AI-driven cyber-attacks. In response to this growing need, Acronis ensures that its users gain access to mission-critical EDR capabilities at no additional cost. Prompted by rapidly increasingAI-driven cyber-attacks, this combination of cybersecurity capabilities will help partners solidify their defense strategy against evolving threats in a way that is efficient and cost-effective.



In this rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, EDR is no longer just a preference - it is a necessity to fortify MSPs against the daily onslaught of sophisticated cyber threats. MSPs have historically struggled with the challenges of operating a disparate set of security tools, resulting in elevated administrative overhead, increased possibilities for human error, and a more vulnerable environment overall. Acronis addresses these critical pain points by integrating endpoint detection and response (EDR) seamlessly with endpoint management, and backup and recovery solutions.

"MSPs and their customers are constantly under attack, facing increasingly more sophisticated threats. Traditional antimalware offerings have become obsolescent. MSPs need EDR," said Ezequiel Steiner, CEO at Acronis. "Understanding the challenges of widespread EDR adoption, particularly in terms of cost and complexity for MSPs, we have added it at no additional price - disrupting the security market and allowing them to deploy Acronis security to ALL endpoints. Notably, Acronis EDR stands out with its MSP-centric design, enhancing technician efficiency through automation and substantially reducing false positives."

Key features and benefits of Acronis' integrated Advanced Security + EDR solution for MSPs include:

Complete Security Solution: MSPs can easily launch and implement a comprehensive security framework that includes rapid recovery capabilities in the event of a successful attack. This integrated approach streamlines security measures, providing a unified front against modern threats.

MSPs can easily launch and implement a comprehensive security framework that includes rapid recovery capabilities in the event of a successful attack. This integrated approach streamlines security measures, providing a unified front against modern threats. Compliance and Protection: The solution enables MSPs to protect against modern threats and readily comply with cyber insurance requirements. With Acronis' integrated technologies, partners can strengthen their security posture, ensuring the highest standards of protection and compliance.

The solution enables MSPs to protect against modern threats and readily comply with cyber insurance requirements. With Acronis' integrated technologies, partners can strengthen their security posture, ensuring the highest standards of protection and compliance. Greater Efficiency: By minimizing administrative overhead through a single security platform, Acronis empowers MSPs to maximize efficiency. The streamlined approach simplifies management tasks, reducing the risk of errors and enhancing overall operational effectiveness.



The advancement of AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools has allowed threat actors to enhance attack sophistication, volume, and speed. This escalation in attacks poses a greater threat to MSPs and their clients, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive and simplified security framework. Acronis responds to these challenges, meeting the evolving needs of its partners and driving innovation in cyber protection. To address the industry shifts, Acronis takes a forward-thinking approach, leading the future of the security space by providing a comprehensive all-in-one solution.

Recognizing the critical importance of securing all endpoints, Acronis recommends that MSPs deploy security to every endpoint. While MSPs often focus on protecting only critical endpoints, it's essential to acknowledge that any endpoint can serve as an entry point for network penetration. Security must extend to all endpoints to ensure a complete cyber-protection solution. Acronis' integration of Advanced Security and EDR solutions reaffirms its commitment to leading the security sector by offering solutions that address these emerging challenges completely.

For more information about Acronis' Advanced Security + EDR solution, visit: https://www.acronis.com/en-us/products/cloud/cyber-protect/security-edr/

About Acronis

Acronis unifies data protection and cybersecurityto deliver integrated, automated cyber protection that solves the safety, accessibility, privacy, authenticity, and security, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management solutions powered by AI. With advanced anti-malware powered by cutting-edge machine intelligence and blockchain-based data authentication technologies, Acronis protects any environment - from cloud to hybrid to on-premises - at a low and predictable cost.

Acronis is a Swiss company, founded in Singapore. Celebrating two decades of innovation, Acronis has 1,800+ employees in 45 locations. Acronis Cyber Protect solution is available in 26 languages in over 150 countries and is used by 20,000+ service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.

Media Contact:

Karl Bateson

Karl.Bateson@acronis.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fa1f7e02-96aa-4340-9ace-32101a315ae1
Absolute-Net Lease in Place and Produces Strong 16.5% Cap Rate over the Life of the Lease Term

SCOTTSDALE, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Zoned Properties, Inc. ("Zoned Properties" or the "Company") (OTCQB:ZDPY), a leading real estate development firm for emerging and highly regulated industries, including legalized cannabis, today announced that the Company has acquired an investment property in Chicago, Illinois (the "Investment Property") and entered into a long-term, absolute-net lease agreement with Justice Cannabis Co.'s BLOC Dispensaries to operate a Retail Dispensary.

"This investment significantly enhances our property investment portfolio and rental revenue base, and diversifies our tenant roster. We have partnered with a best-in-class cannabis operator, which underscores the highest and best use of this premier retail location. Illinois is home to one of the most exciting, emerging cannabis markets in the nation with strong consumer brands and growing consumer demand. Driven by robust consumer brands and escalating demand, Illinois' market has reached new heights with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) reporting a surge in retail activity, including the launch of 28 new dispensaries and total dispensary sales eclipsing the $1.5 billion mark in FY23. We are poised to play a pivotal role in the commercial real estate landscape of the cannabis sector and this partnership aligns with the Company's mission to innovate within the real estate development sector, driving growth and delivering value to shareholders," commented Bryan McLaren, Chief Executive Officer of Zoned Properties. "The collaboration with Justice Cannabis Co.'s BLOC Dispensaries is a testament to our strategic vision and we look forward to expanding our relationship with their executive team."

Transaction Highlights

Zoned Properties has acquired a premier Investment Property in Chicago, Illinois that has been entitled and permitted as a cannabis retail dispensary.

The Investment Property was acquired for approximately $1.6 million, including all closing costs and fees. The transaction also includes a commitment from the tenant's operating partner of up to $1 million for renovation and construction improvements.

The Investment Property is leased to Justice Cannabis Co.'s BLOC Dispensaries under a long-term, absolute-net lease agreement, which will produce an approximate 16.5% Cap Rate when straight-lined over the 15-year term of the lease agreement. The lease includes 3% annual increases in base rent over the life of the lease term, yielding approximately $265,000 in annual base rental revenue when straight-lined over the life of the lease term.

Market Highlights

Illinois' cannabis market is becoming one of the strongest in the nation. In 2023, the state saw over $1.5 billion in overall dispensary sales and is expected to see continued growth in 2024.

Chicago, Illinois is in the BLS-5 Region for cannabis retail locations, one of the most in-demand market regions in Illinois.

The Investment Property is located in a prime retail area, situated approximately 1.5 miles from the iconic Chicago White Sox stadium and is surrounded by several major highways.

About Justice Cannabis Co. & BLOC Dispensaries

Justice Cannabis Co. (formerly known as Justice Grown), has been a steady force in the U.S. cannabis industry for over 7 years and has garnered attention for all the right reasons. They are a full-service, vertical cannabis business. They cultivate, manufacture and distribute high quality cannabis products to a variety of customers, and patients across the United States. Founded on the premise of 'cannabis made good, that does good to make you feel good,' the Justice team has a long-standing and impressive reputation for their social justice commitments, quality products, unique dispensaries and a modern approach to service. Through its retail brand, Bloc, Justice Cannabis Co. offers products and dispensary experiences thoughtfully developed to aid in the daily journey of feeling better. With an expertly curated collection, and an attainable price point, Justice Cannabis Co. continues to garner attention for its growing community of loyal customers.

Justice Cannabis Co. holds multiple licenses across 8 states: California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Michigan, Missouri, and Utah. With over 100 years of combined cannabis experience on the executive team, Justice Cannabis Co. is composed of experienced cannabis professionals and alumni from some of the cannabis industry's most influential and impactful brands. For more information, visit www.justicecannabisco.com.

About Zoned Properties, Inc. (OTCQB: ZDPY):

Zoned Properties is a specialized real estate development firm for emerging and highly regulated industries, including regulated cannabis. The Company is redefining the approach to commercial real estate investment through its integrated growth services.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Zoned Properties has developed a full spectrum of integrated growth services to support its real estate development model; the Company's Property Technology, Advisory Services, Commercial Brokerage, and Investment Portfolio collectively cross-pollinate within the model to drive project value associated with complex real estate projects. With national experience and a team of experts devoted to the emerging cannabis industry, Zoned Properties is addressing the specific needs of a modern market in highly regulated industries.

Zoned Properties does not grow, harvest, sell or distribute cannabis or any substances regulated under United States law such as the Controlled Substance Act of 1970, as amended (the "CSA"). Zoned Properties' corporate headquarters is located at 8360 E. Raintree Dr., Suite 230, Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information, call 877-360-8839 or visit www.ZonedProperties.com.

Twitter:@ZonedProperties

LinkedIn:@ZonedProperties

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "potential," "continue" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties, and there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors, risks and uncertainties are discussed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects the Company's current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

Investor Relations

Zoned Properties, Inc.

Bryan McLaren

Tel (877) 360-8839

Investors@zonedproperties.com

www.zonedproperties.com

SOURCE: Zoned Properties, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
LONDON, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lotus's emerged triumphant at the 2023 Global Brand Awards, earning the distinction of 'Most User-Friendly Retail Brand, Thailand'.

The Prestigious Global Brand Awards , an annual event by Global Brands Magazine (GBM) based in England, strives to honour worldwide brands that distinguish themselves across diverse industries while ensuring that readers are up-to-date on pivotal trends in the realm of branding. Global Brands Magazine conducted a thorough evaluation, considering various criteria such as Customer Service, Technology Integration, community engagement, innovative solutions, environmental considerations, and more. Lotus's stands out for its exceptional user-friendliness, rightfully earning recognition from Global Brands Magazine.

Commenting on winning the award, Jay Reddy, Director, Global Brands Magazine said, "I am delighted to announce Lotus's as the Most User-Friendly Retail Brand in Thailand. Their intuitive design, seamless online experience, and exceptional service redefine customer satisfaction. LOTUS'S sets a new standard for retail excellence. Wishing them continued success in the years ahead."

Commenting on winning the award, Vorawan Phianlikhitwong, Executive Director, Customer - Lotus's said, "This marks the first time that Lotus's has been honored with the prestigious Global Brand Awards for being recognized as the Most User-Friendly Retail Brand in Thailand on an international platform. We are privileged to have earned this esteemed accolade, underscoring our commitment to maintaining a strong connection with our valued customers. As Lotus's embarks on its 30th year of serving customers, offering high-quality products at affordable prices, and providing a delightful experience as a SMART community center, this recognition adds a significant milestone to better serving customers every day."

ABOUT LOTUS'S

Lotus's is an omni-channel retailer in Thailand with more than 2,000 stores nationwide, with the common goal of offering our customers across Thailand 'A Little Delight Every Day.' Lotus's has been delighting customers in Thailand for 30 years. We strive to cater to the ever-changing lifestyles of our customers as being a Smart Community Centers, serving convenience and a seamless shopping experience anywhere anytime.

ABOUT GLOBAL BRANDS MAGAZINE (ENGLAND)

Global Brands Magazine (GBM) has been at the forefront, bringing news, views and opinions on brands shaping the future of their industry. The UK-based magazine provides its readers with the latest news and information on 'best-in-class' brands across the globe. Each year, GBM develops awards for companies that stand out, have a unique vision, exceptional service, innovative solutions and consumer-centric products among their industry leaders. The Magazine has over 8.5 million visitors and 15 million page views per month, making it one of the best online magazines. The Magazine also maintains a strong presence on social media, with over 20k+ Facebook likes, 10k+ Instagram followers, 25k+ Twitter followers, and 3k+ LinkedIn followers.

ABOUT THE GLOBAL BRAND AWARDS

Global Brand Awards honours brands for their excellence in performance and rewards companies across different sectors for the quality of their services. The Brand Awards highlight the accomplishments of organisations that have performed remarkably well in finance, education, hospitality, automotive, lifestyle, education, real estate, technology, and others. Global Brand Awards recognise vital players who progress towards excellence by providing a platform to acknowledge their efforts. In addition, GBM strives to create awareness concerning the significance of such organisations and rewards them for their notable efforts with the ultimate global recognition. We are excited to announce the highly anticipated awards ceremony, which will take place at The Athenee Hotel in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand, in May 2024. To learn more about the awards, please visit the Brand Awards Winners section on the GBM website.

To nominate your company or business leader for the Global Brand Awards 2023, please click on the following link:

https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/nomination-form/

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SINGAPORE, Jan 22, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - The complexities of the trilemma of security, affordability, and sustainability in the energy sector, warrants the urgent need for effective and adaptable regulatory policies. Against this backdrop, the world's leading energy authorities will gather at the Energy Regulators Forum (ERF) from 15-17 May 2024, to chart a dynamic course for energy policy and regulatory advancements that will spearhead the energy transition.Held annually by the Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA), the 21st edition of the event will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, Thailand hosted and supported by the Energy Regulatory Commission of Thailand. Taking place for the first time in Asia, the event is set to unite global regulators, visionary investors, system operators, top-tier consultants, and academics in high-level dialogue that will significantly impact the future of the energy market.In a strategic partnership this year, ERF will be co-located with the Future Energy Asia Exhibition and Summit (FEA) in Bangkok, allowing for powerful synergies with the hugely successful FEA that attracts an impressive 21,000 business leaders and policymakers, serving as the platform for propelling a revolutionary energy transition agenda from an Asian perspective.Kacper Jarosz, Deputy Program Director at ERRA, emphasised the crucial role of energy regulators in the transition. He said: "Energy regulators safeguard the effectiveness of modern energy systems and markets. They are tasked with the delicate balancing act between entrepreneurship, innovation, and consumer protection. ERRA is at the forefront of international discussions on best practices, particularly regarding the energy transition. We are thrilled to bring the regulatory agenda of our 48-member regulatory authorities to the Future Energy Asia Exhibition and Summit in 2024.""How to progress the Energy Transition has become one of the most pertinent topics for the global energy sector. A transformation of the energy landscape in moving from fossil-based to zero-carbon sources has become a big challenge for every country to achieve while the risks of climate change are becoming increasingly tangible. The goal is to successfully reduce carbon emissions and limit global temperature increase to 1.5degC of pre-industrial levels. To meet the global warming limit, concerted efforts are urgently needed to reduce emissions and reach global net-zero emissions by 2050. This is why this ERC Forum has been organised, providing a platform to discuss, collaborate, share best practices, latest developments in energy policy and regulation, particularly in the ASEAN region," explains Mr. Samerjai Suksumek, Chairman of the Energy Regulatory Commission, Thailand, on the motivation for this international collaboration of collocated events to take place in 2024.Organised by dmg events, a global leader in energy events, Future Energy Asia features Strategic Summits, Technical Conferences, and a substantial exhibition showcasing over 400 innovative exhibitors. With the addition of ERF, Future Energy Asia will be a critical platform to address the most critical challenges and opportunities in the energy transition and define the future of energy.Marcus Magee, Vice President - Asia at dmg events, spoke of the profound collaboration between the ERF and Future Energy Asia: "The collaboration of the ERF with Future Energy Asia demonstrates a clear commitment from both parties to create a united platform that accelerates the transition forward. The events have complete synergy, and the combination ensures that the highest calibre of attendees and decision-makers extract maximum effectiveness from their three-day attendance. We eagerly anticipate the fresh discussions, groundbreaking insights, and unprecedented collaborations that ERRA will bring to the forum."About ERRAThe Energy Regulators Regional Association (ERRA) is an inter-institutional non-profit organisation unified by the shared goal of its regulatory members to improve energy regulation. ERRA's focus is to bring together effective energy regulators with the necessary autonomy and authority to make positive change. www.erranet.orgAbout ERC ThailandThe Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) was established under the mandate of the Energy Industry Act B.E. 2550 (2007) which came into effect in 2007, stipulating the establishment of a regulatory body to oversee energy industry operations, which include electricity, natural gas, and energy network systems, in accordance with the objectives of the Act under the policy framework of the government. The purpose of this was to promote sufficient, stable, and fair energy services, protect the interests of energy users and energy industry licensees, and safeguard the benefits of energy users. The Office of the Energy Regulatory Commission (OERC) is also established under the Act to function as the secretariat to the ERC and operates as a state agency, which is not considered a government agency or state-owned enterprise under the law on budgetary procedure.About The Energy Regulators ForumThe Energy Regulators Forum (ERF) will be hosted and supported by the Energy Regulatory Commission of Thailand. The ERF is going to be an anchor event of the Future Energy Asia Exhibition and Summit. ERRA will also support the Energy Regulatory Commission of Thailand hosting a Summit of ASEAN Regulators constituting a breakout session of the ERF. The goal of ERF is to convene national regulators in a global format with investors, utilities, consultants, traders and academics to engage in strategic dialogue on policy and regulatory developments, and to map a way forward for the energy transition in the coming years in ERRA regions including Asia.About Future Energy AsiaFuture Energy Asia (FEA) is Asia's leading energy transition and transformation exhibition and summit, taking place in-person at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand. Convening energy ministers, policy makers, energy majors including NECs and IECs, power generation authorities, midstream gas and LNG companies, EPCs and project consultants, and renewable energy developers, the exhibition and summit will advance innovation and collaboration with the participation of key energy stakeholders.For more information or to find out how to participate in the event, visit www.futureenergyasia.com or contact info@futureenergyasia.comAbout dmg eventsHeadquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates since 1989, with offices in Canada, Egypt, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand and the United Kingdom, dmg events is an international exhibitions, conference and intelligence company, attracting more than 1 million attendees to a portfolio of over 80 events each year. This global portfolio works closely with key stakeholders across the industry to facilitate pragmatic dialogue, serving as platforms for the latest discussions at the forefront of change. Over recent years dmg events has significantly expanded operations to achieve impressive growth in emerging and mature markets. With new events continually being launched to adapt to changing market conditions, evolving with the industry, live events remain a focal point, providing a mix of exhibitions, conferences, certified workshops, technical seminars, clubs and leadership roundtables. www.dmgevents.comSource: dmg eventsCopyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 22, 2024Investment Panels held during the World Economic Forum at the Fuxagufer on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, proved to be highly successful for the investors in attendance.

Family offices, impact fund managers, and thought leaders had the opportunity to connect and discuss in two events, "Energy Transition and Decarbonisation" and "Responsible Investing and Conscious Leadership," all against the breathtaking backdrop of a mountain overlooking the village of Davos.

The day unfolded across two themes and their respective panel discussions:

"Energy Transition and Decarbonization"



The morning started with a welcome by Ilkay Demirdag , Top Tier Impact's Head of Global Events, followed by opening remarks by Alessa Berg , Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact. The keynote speech from Eric Usher, Head of the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative , set a thoughtful tone for the discussions ahead in the energy space.

Next was the panel moderated by Ilkay Demirdag. This panel delved into the transformative landscape of transitioning to sustainable energy and reducing carbon footprints. Lucy Thomas, Head of Sustainable Investing at UBS , shared her expertise in investment stewardship and sustainable investment strategies. Derek Brooks, Principal at 2150 , shed light on innovative climate tech investments reshaping urban environments. Tarkan Ozballar, CEO of EnerGreen , presented the pioneering blockchain-based solution for investing in renewable energy plants, emphasizing the integration of technology into energy generation and storage facilities. Vivian Claire Liew, CEO of Climate Smart Investments, provided insights into optimizing climate alpha in portfolio valuation.

"Responsible Investing and Conscious Leadership"



The keynote speech from Begum Dogan Faralyali, Chairperson of Dogan Holding , set an example of a value-driven family office strategy, followed by the Daring to Lead for Impact Workshop by Azrya Bequer & Astrid Brinck from KAVAN . This hands-on workshop explored practical strategies and exercises to help participants unlock their potential, enhance self-awareness, and empower them to lead with clarity.

Next was the panel moderated by Alessa Berg. This panel featured Dr. James Gifford, Head of Sustainable & Impact Advisory at Credit Suisse , Dr. Christian De Prati, Board Member at Rothschild & Co , Maureen N. Dunne, Author of The Neurodiversity Edge , Michael Birkin, Founder of kyu Collective , and Serhat Cicekoglu, Co-Founder of Sente Ventures . Collectively, the panelists provided an in-depth insight into responsible investing and conscious leadership, emphasizing a range of diverse approaches and strategies essential for fostering a positive impact in the business realm.

Alessa Berg, Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact, states "If we are to solve the global climate crisis, we need accelerated collaboration to create synergies like investments and partnerships across all parts of the climate ecosystem. It takes investors, founders, corporates and policy makers to all play an essential role. This is what Top Tier Impact is here for and we see these synergies happening each day in our network, so we want to keep scaling it and do it for all impact leaders on a mission."

We express gratitude to our sponsors:

Energreen , is the world's first blockchain-based solution for renewable energy investments.

1MTN , based in Tallinn, Estonia, focuses on carbon removal projects, pledging to restore one million hectares of degraded land in Africa by 2030.

Dogan Holding , is a responsible investment firm with a pioneering role in various sectors like energy, finance, tourism, automotive, and real estate.

Sente Ventures is a venture capital platform specializing in deep-tech investments in human essentials, a 30-acre retreat center, and educational institute fostering a strong community through intimate spaces and transformative programming.

The Neurodiversity Edge , offers a transformative framework to address crucial human resources opportunities in the 21st century.

Top Tier Impact

Top Tier Impact (TTI) was founded in 2019 by Alessa Berg to create more synergies in the climate and ESG space. She observed systematic gaps in the space over time and created TTI with the mission of accelerating the mainstream adoption of impact and sustainability in the way companies do business all around the world.

We connect the most action-driven, results-oriented impact leaders globally and accelerate the success of our members by enabling investments, partnerships, deals, knowledge exchange, and more.

www.toptierimpact.com

support@toptierimpact.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11a6b705-8f0d-4611-a346-3ae895b749f8
Acquisition of Emily GT and PONS Projects from NEVS, Pending Reverse Merger with DrazCanna, Inc. (OTC PK: DZCA), and Organizational Development

DEARBORN HEIGHTS, MI / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / EV Electra LTD, a Canadian electric vehicle manufacturer, announced the strategic acquisition of the Emily and PONS product lines and related assets from NEVS (National Electric Vehicle Sweden) on December 1, 2023. The acquisition provides the company with production-ready design on the Emily GT vehicle line and the PONS, an autonomous city mobility service system, as well as the revitalization of the automotive heritage in Trollhattan, Sweden plant.

"As the long days and tireless work of many dedicated individuals culminated in the announcement of EV Electra's acquisition of the Emily GT and PONS projects from NEVS." stated Jihad Mohammad, "The energy and excitement since the announcement has been incredible as the tireless efforts of many are needed for such a pivotal transformation. We are dedicated to completing the tactical steps to integrate the acquisition into the company and move forward as a worldwide leader in the electric vehicle industry."

Evolution of EV Electra - Strategic Production Plan

Drawing upon its humble beginnings in 2007, the EV Electra team has been dedicating its unique combination of expertise, technologies, and resources, towards accelerating innovation in the EV industry. It's impressive to see how companies combine efforts to push the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable transportation. The acquisition team from EV Electra and NEVS worked tirelessly to achieve a shared goal of a new chapter for the Emily and PONS projects, including efforts in securing their future production at the plant in Sweden. This move underscores EV Electra's commitment to fulfilling the legacy of these leading-edge product lines while leveraging the expertise of the Trollhattan facility.

With unique expertise, technologies, and resources, potentially accelerating innovation and the development of new EV models, we are excited as the convergence of efforts pushes the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable transportation leveraging the unique design elements of Emily GT. The company is currently examining with the intention of reaching a contract manufacturing partnership for the production of the Emily GT to begin.

"Our plan is to produce electric vehicles in Sweden. We were unable to obtain the existing assembly area at the Trollhattan facility and are currently working with the city leaders to acquire the necessary land to develop a purpose-built state-of-the-art EV assembly plant." Stated Jihad Mohammad, "As we work to finalize a contract manufacturing agreement to begin production, we remain hopeful a mutually beneficial arrangement can be had to build EV Electra's future in Trollhattan to ensure full-scale production in Sweden."

Transformation of EV Electra

The EV Electra Emily GT is redefining the boundaries of electric vehicle design. Wheel-mounted motors not only free up interior space but also enhance driving performance and safety. Torque vectoring, enabled by this innovative setup, significantly improves handling, traction, and overall driving dynamics unlike any other production-ready vehicle design in the industry redefining the EV driving experience unlike any other vehicle on the market today.

To underscore its dedication to local development and manufacturing, EV Electra is establishing a new subsidiary in Sweden. This subsidiary will play a pivotal role in the evolution of EV Electra with the production of the Emily GT and PONS product lines at the Trollhattan plant. This localization effort aligns with EV Electra's strategy of contributing to the growth and development of the Swedish automotive industry.

"With the establishment of a new subsidiary in Sweden, we are poised to lead the charge in electric vehicle development and production. The future looks promising as we integrate these projects into our portfolio, contributing to the growth of the Swedish automotive industry and expanding our global footprint." - Jihad Mohammad, CEO of EV Electra

Future Vision: EV Electra's Equity Capitalization

EV Electra's entry into the EV industry began as an entrepreneurial vision of its founder and CEO, Jihad Mohammad. Initial capitalization was provided by Jihad Mohammad Investments to establish EV Electra as a multinational corporation and begin the designing of an electric vehicle product line. As the design engineering team progressed in its work, the evolution of the company's capital structure continued.

As the company evolved, blockchain technology presented an innovative approach to addressing the need for the facilitation of shareholder administration and liquidity. EV Electra

"The benefits of blockchain technology in providing a process for shareholder tracking, coordination, and liquidity were the reasons we pursued the creation of EVNOW tokens." Stated Jihad Mohammad, "We saw blockchain technology as a basis for the future evolution into an internationally listed, publicly traded company to benefit our shareholders. However, we quickly realized that the design was for the benefit of the blockchain organization itself and ceased further participation."

No EV Electra shareholders were negatively impacted by the discontinuance of the EVNOW tokens and blockchain tracking for share administration aside from liquidity, as shareholder coordination and administration were returned to internal conventional processes.

Moving past blockchain technology, EV Electra set its sights on the public company capital markets. Although Special Purpose Acquisition Corporations (SPAC) have been in existence for decades, they became the purported "latest and greatest innovation" for the equity capital markets as we were looking at alternatives for shareholder liquidity, administration, and availability of the capital markets for growth without the up to 20% fee for the SPAC creators.

"The fundamental basis of SPACs made sense as it provided a process for privately held EV Electra to complete a reverse merger with a public entity." Stated Jihad Mohammad, "However, we can accomplish the goals of a SPAC through acquiring an OTC public shell as we are finalizing the reverse merger with DrazCanna, Inc. without the fee for a SPAC creator."

The company is increasing its authorized shares from 500 million to 1.2 billion. Upon completion of the reverse merger with DrazCanna, Inc., the company will have approximately 500 million shares issued and outstanding of the 1.2 billion authorized. Additionally, the company is still awaiting final processing of its name change filing with FINRA submitted on October 18th, 2023.

Capital Structure as Foundation for Growth

"Our commitment to innovative capital structure approaches for EV Electra has been a crucial element of the foundation for pursuing innovation and expansion within the EV industry. We have been fortunate to avoid the toxic debt structures that have failed so many organizations." stated Jihad Mohammad, "Since our beginnings, a fortress balance sheet supports our growth plans and opportunities for expansion, innovation, and market dominance while mitigating potential risks.

The company desires a robust financial position with ample cash reserves, manageable debt levels, and strong liquidity. This provides a solid foundation for pursuing growth opportunities such as acquisitions for expanding opportunities across continents providing revenue growth opportunities including additional manufacturing plants without compromising the company's stability.

Commitment to Fostering Capital Partner Relationships

As EV Electra continues its robust growth trajectory, it reiterates its commitment to fostering capital partner relationships. The company sees collaborations as instrumental in fueling innovation, expanding market reach, and accelerating growth. EV Electra invites potential partners to explore mutually beneficial opportunities, recognizing the value of strategic alliances in driving sustained success in the dynamic EV market.

In conclusion, EV Electra's recent announcements mark a pivotal moment in its journey, including announcing this key acquisition drives international growth in the electric vehicle industry, reflecting a commitment to innovation, transparency, and strategic growth. The company invites stakeholders, investors, and industry enthusiasts to stay tuned for further updates as it continues to shape the future of the electric vehicle industry.

For inquiries, please contact:

EV Electra LTD

Jihad Mohammad, President

5050 rue de Sorel, suite 107

Montreal QC H3Z 2P9

www.evelectra.com

press@evelectra.com

DrazCanna, Inc.

Jihad Mohammad, President

P.O. Box 600

Dearborn Heights, MI 48127

www.drazcanna.com

info@drazcanna.com

About EV Electra LTD

EV Electra LTD, headquartered in Canada, holds the distinction of being the pioneering electric automotive manufacturer with its initial Research & Development Center based in Lebanon. Originally established under 'Jihad Mohammad Investments,' EV Electra has evolved into an independent entity, forging its path towards innovation and sustainability.

EV Electra stands as the premier electric automotive manufacturer, rooted in Lebanon and branching out to locations in Lebanon, Canada, Sweden, Germany, and Turkey, all underpinned by a global vision that propels its expansion.

From its inception, EV Electra has been driven by a singular mission: to champion environmental conservation. The company is deeply committed to producing Battery Electric Vehicles with zero emissions, fostering a cleaner, greener future. Fueled by this commitment, EV Electra's dedicated team strives to create an enticing, inventive, and affordable range of electric vehicles. Their collective inspiration lies in becoming a global leader in the transition toward sustainable energy, marking a significant milestone in our world's journey toward environmental responsibility.

About DrazCanna, Inc.

DrazCanna, Inc. (OTC: DZCA) was operating in the educational sector until 2016 and was dormant until 2021 when the corporation filed its reports with regulatory authorities to achieve current status.

Safe Harbor

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties concerning the plans and expectations of EV Electra LTD and DrazCanna, Inc. These statements are only predictions and actual events, or results may differ materially from those described in this press release due to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are out of the company's control. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, that the company's expectations of future growth may not be realized. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by the "Risk Factors" and other cautionary statements included in the company's annual, quarterly, and current reports and other filings, including but not limited for the quarter ended September 30, 2023, and filings with the OTC Markets.

SOURCE: EV ELECTRA LTD.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
A new collaboration between two leading organizations in global medical data has been announced to bring greater efficiency and certainty to regulatory bodies, industry, and the healthcare community, ultimately aiming to improve patient safety worldwide.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122291747/en/

Historically, lack of interoperability has been a significant stumbling block to the effective sharing and use of medicinal product safety data. The strategic partnership announced today takes aim at the problem, combining the expertise of the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) in clinical data standards with that of Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC) as the developer of WHODrug Global, the world's most widely used drug dictionary.

Together, CDISC and UMC will work to strengthen interoperability between CDISC standards and WHODrug Global for the benefit of users, regulatory bodies, and the broader healthcare community.

"CDISC is excited to expand our long collaboration with Uppsala Monitoring Centre to support the global community in connecting WHODrug Global with CDISC's Study Data Tabulation Model," said Chris Decker, President and CEO, CDISC.

"CDISC has been an important collaborator for many years. Formalizing our collaboration is a natural next step. We believe that it is critical that standard-developing organizations related to each other should unite and collaborate actively, and we are very happy to do this together with CDISC. True interoperability is paramount to empower global healthcare initiatives and ensure the seamless utilization of data among regulators and across the industry," said Peter Hjelmstrom, Director, Uppsala Monitoring Centre.

The collaboration will take the form of knowledge sharing, networking, and joint projects, and the partners will deliver training and presentations for their respective user groups, focusing on standards, best practice implementation, and interoperability. Furthermore, the two organizations will engage in continuous information sharing and will also oversee and review technical documentation related to CDISC standards and WHODrug Global, to ensure comprehensive understanding and alignment. CDISC and UMC will also promote and encourage participation in each other's user group events, conferences, and workshops.

CDISC is a global leader in clinical data standards for regulatory submissions, while UMC is recognized for its operational support to the WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring and pharmacovigilance initiatives to advance the safety of medicines and vaccines globally.

About CDISC

Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) is a global non-profit organization that develops and advances data standards of the highest quality to transform incompatible formats, inconsistent methodologies, and diverse perspectives into a robust framework for generating accessible clinical research data. Driven by the belief that the true measure of data is its impact, CDISC convenes a global community of research experts representing a range of experiences and backgrounds to harness the collective power to drive more meaningful clinical research.

About Uppsala Monitoring Centre

Uppsala Monitoring Centre (UMC) is a non-profit, self-funded foundation that works alongside the World Health Organization and other stakeholders to advance medicines safety. As a leader in the development of pharmacovigilance science and research methods, UMC explores the safety of medicines and vaccines and offers products and services used by health regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry worldwide. For more than 45 years, UMC has provided scientific and operational support to the WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122291747/en/

Contacts:

Melissa Kirwin

Director, Business Development Communications

mkirwin@cdisc.org

Gerard Ross

Head Of Communications

gerard.ross@who-umc.org
Infogain, a Silicon Valley-headquartered leader in human-centered digital platforms and software engineering services, today announced the appointment of Dinesh Venugopal as its Chief Executive Officer, effective February 8, 2024.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122895309/en/

Dinesh Venugopal (Photo: Business Wire)

Dinesh will take over from Ayan Mukerji, who joined Infogain in 2018 as Chief Operating Officer before becoming Chief Executive Officer in 2021.

Dinesh joins Infogain with close to three decades of management experience. He was the CEO of PK, an experience engineering company, before its acquisition by Concentrix, where he became the President of Concentrix Catalyst. Dinesh also spent over a decade at Mphasis, serving in various roles, including President of Direct Digital.

Rohan Haldea, Partner at Apax, said, "We are delighted to welcome Dinesh as the new CEO of Infogain. He brings a wealth of experience in digital transformation, experience engineering, and large deals, which closely complements Infogain's growth strategy."

Rohan added, "We thank Ayan for his immense contribution to Infogain and for setting the stage for dynamic growth in the last six years."

Commenting on his appointment, Dinesh said, "Infogain's platform growth story over the last few years has been remarkable. I'm delighted to join at an exciting time as Infogain positions its customers to succeed in the race for digital dominance."

"Leading Infogain has been an extraordinary journey, and I extend my gratitude to Apax and the Infogain Board for this incredible opportunity," said Ayan. "Dinesh comes with a proven track record and is the perfect choice to steer Infogain into its next growth chapter. I wish him the very best."

About Infogain

Infogain is a human-centered digital platform engineering company based out of Silicon Valley. We engineer business outcomes for Fortune 500 companies and digital natives in the technology, healthcare, insurance, travel, telecom, and retail/CPG industries. We accelerate experience-led transformation of digital platforms using technologies such as cloud, microservices, automation, IoT, and artificial intelligence. Infogain is a multi-cloud expert across hyperscale cloud providers Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform and Amazon Web Services.

Infogain, an Apax Funds portfolio company, has offices in California, Washington, Texas, the UK, and Singapore, with delivery centers in Seattle, Dallas, Montevideo, Krakow, Noida, Bengaluru, Pune, Gurgaon, and Mumbai. To learn more, visit www.infogain.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122895309/en/

Contacts:

Infogain

Piyali Guha

piyali.guha@infogain.com

+91 9739015925

Archetype

Suryansh Gaur

suryansh.gaur@archetype.co

+91 9711306903
New composition of Ageas's Executive Committee

Today Ageas announces upcoming organisational changes within its Executive Committee with the objective to align its governance model to the strategic ambitions of the Group.

Ageas is reinforcing the Group's current Executive Committee by including all its 4 business segments (Europe, Asia, Belgium, and Reinsurance), complemented by a newly created function of Managing Director Business Development. The latter function will be responsible for the development and implementation of the Group's strategy, and for the further evolution of its footprint.

The changes are being implemented to:

better reflect the current business profile taking into account the evolving importance and size of the Group's different activities.

simplify and improve the integration of corporate and business decision making, maximising Group synergies.

have a dedicated focus on strategy, combined with business development opportunities.





The Ageas Executive Committee, entrusted with the daily management of the Group, will be enlarged to eight members. Antonio Cano who has decided to pursue new opportunities will end his mandate at Ageas as of 1 June 2024.

The Ageas Executive Committee will comprise the following functions:

CEO and CFO : Hans De Cuyper and Wim Guilliams will remain Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively.

: Hans De Cuyper and Wim Guilliams will remain Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. CRO : Christophe Vandeweghe, currently CFO of Ageas Portugal, will succeed Emmanuel Van Grimbergen as Chief Risk Officer as of 1 June 2024. With a career starting at ING and Deloitte, Christophe joined Ageas in 2014 as Head of Risk for Continental Europe. Since that time, he has taken up various roles at Group level. In 2018 he transferred to Portugal to become CRO for Grupo Ageas Portugal and later CFO. Since April 2023 he has also assumed the role of Chief Business Development Officer for the Portuguese activities.

: Christophe Vandeweghe, currently CFO of Ageas Portugal, will succeed Emmanuel Van Grimbergen as Chief Risk Officer as of 1 June 2024. With a career starting at ING and Deloitte, Christophe joined Ageas in 2014 as Head of Risk for Continental Europe. Since that time, he has taken up various roles at Group level. In 2018 he transferred to Portugal to become CRO for Grupo Ageas Portugal and later CFO. Since April 2023 he has also assumed the role of Chief Business Development Officer for the Portuguese activities. MD Belgium : Considering the importance of Belgium within the Group, AG's CEO Heidi Delobelle will join the Ageas Executive Committee as Managing Director Belgium.

: Considering the importance of Belgium within the Group, AG's CEO Heidi Delobelle will join the Ageas Executive Committee as Managing Director Belgium. MD Europe : Ben Coumans, currently Group Director Strategy and M&A, will replace Antonio Cano as Managing Director Europe, covering Ageas Portugal, Ageas UK and the Turkish joint ventures.

: Ben Coumans, currently Group Director Strategy and M&A, will replace Antonio Cano as Managing Director Europe, covering Ageas Portugal, Ageas UK and the Turkish joint ventures. MD Asia : Filip Coremans will continue his function as Managing Director Asia.

: Filip Coremans will continue his function as Managing Director Asia. MD Reinsurance & Investments : Given the growth and ambitions of the reinsurance activities within the Group, the role of Managing Director Reinsurance & Investments will be created. Next to reinsurance, the scope includes Real Estate, ALM and Investments. Emmanuel Van Grimbergen, currently CRO and with extensive experience in capital optimisation for the Group, will take up this new function as of 1 June 2024. Until then, Antonio Cano will further fulfil this position. Within this new organisation Joachim Racz will, as CEO of Ageas Re, report directly to the MD Reinsurance & Investments.

: Given the growth and ambitions of the reinsurance activities within the Group, the role of Managing Director Reinsurance & Investments will be created. Next to reinsurance, the scope includes Real Estate, ALM and Investments. Emmanuel Van Grimbergen, currently CRO and with extensive experience in capital optimisation for the Group, will take up this new function as of 1 June 2024. Until then, Antonio Cano will further fulfil this position. Within this new organisation Joachim Racz will, as CEO of Ageas Re, report directly to the MD Reinsurance & Investments. MD Business Development: Karolien Gielen will take up the position of Managing Director Business Development. This role encompasses Strategy, M&A, Communication and the Chief Development and Sustainability Office that includes Business Development, Technology Development and Sustainability. Karolien Gielen is currently Partner and Managing Director at the Boston Consulting Group and Practice Area Lead Insurance for the London-Amsterdam-Brussels system.





The new Executive appointments are still subject to the approval of the National Bank of Belgium. The succession for the new CRO and MD Reinsurance & Investments roles is scheduled as of 1 June 2024, subject to the approval of the CRO-appointment at the General Shareholders Meeting of 15 May 2024. The mandate of the MD Business Development will take effect on 8 April 2024. The other nominations will be operational as of 1 March 2024.

Hans De Cuyper, CEO Ageas:

"I am convinced that the new organisation and the wealth of experience and expertise brought together in the new Executive Committee from inside and outside our Group, will help our company to grow, to innovate and to remain future proof for all our stakeholders in the near and more distant future. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Antonio Cano for his outstanding contribution to the Group in his different roles at AG, as Chief Operating Officer of Ageas and since 2020 as MD Europe of the Group. I would like to congratulate the new members of the Executive Committee and we are looking forward to welcoming Karolien Gielen. Her international insurance knowledge, vast professional experience, and leadership skills, will bring a lot of added value to Ageas."

Ageas is a listed international insurance Group with a heritage spanning almost 200 years. It offers Retail and Business customers Life and Non-Life insurance products designed to suit their specific needs, today and tomorrow, and is also engaged in reinsurance activities. As one of Europe's larger insurance companies, Ageas concentrates its activities in Europe and Asia, which together make up the major part of the global insurance market. It operates successful insurance businesses in Belgium, the UK, Portugal, Turkiye, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines through a combination of wholly owned subsidiaries and long-term partnerships with strong financial institutions and key distributors. Ageas ranks among the market leaders in the countries in which it operates. It represents a staff force of about 44,000 people and reported annual inflows of more than EUR 16 billion in 2022.

Attachment
BANGALORE, India, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- IoT Insurance Market By Component (Solution, Service), By Insurance Type (Life and Health Insurance, Property and Casualty Insurance, Others), By Application (Automotive, Transportation, and Logistics, Life and Health, Commercial and Residential Buildings, Business and Enterprise, Agriculture, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032.



The Global IoT insurance market was valued at USD 31.5 Billion in 2022, and is projected to reach USD 686.9 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 36.4% from 2023 to 2032.

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Major Factors Driving the Growth of IoT Insurance Market:

The use of revolutionary technologies like telematics, data analytics, and predictive modeling is driving the expansion of the IoT insurance industry. Usage-based insurance with telematics support and connected device risk reduction lead to more economical and customized plans.

Insurance companies may use machine learning algorithms to optimize pricing models, improve fraud detection, and engage clients proactively thanks to the copious amounts of real-time data from IoT devices.

The IoT insurance market is growing as a result of its expansion into the health insurance sector using IoT health monitoring devices, cooperative industry collaborations, legislative backing for innovation, and the development of dynamic business models. The insurance business is changing as a result of the confluence of technology, data, and creative thinking. This is creating a more connected, customer-focused, and data-driven sector.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF IOT INSURANCE MARKET

IoT devices play a major role in the insurance industry's risk reduction and prevention efforts. Insurers are able to proactively monitor and minimize risks related to property and health insurance using connected devices, such as wearables and sensors in smart homes. Smart sensors, for instance, may identify security breaches, fire threats, and leaks in houses. This enables insurers to provide incentives for taking preventive action and, in the end, lower the frequency and severity of claims.

The health insurance industry is seeing tremendous growth due to the proliferation of IoT in health monitoring devices. Insurers receive useful information about the lives and health conditions of their policyholders via wearables and health-tracking devices. With the use of this data, insurers may create individualized health insurance policies that will encourage policyholders to lead better lifestyles and lower their total risk of medical expenses.

The market for IoT insurance is expanding rapidly, mostly due to the use of telematics technology. Combining informatics and telecommunications, telematics uses sensors and communication devices in cars to gather and send real-time data. This technology makes usage-based insurance (UBI) possible in the insurance industry, where rates are based on real driving behavior. With the use of telematics data collection, insurers are able to analyze risk more precisely, which results in more affordable and customized insurance plans for customers. The insurance industry's capacity to identify fraud is improved by the incorporation of IoT devices. Insurers can spot odd trends and possible fraudulent activity by continuously monitoring data streams from several sources.

Regulations designed to protect consumers and promote innovation have aided in the expansion of the IoT insurance sector. Regulatory agencies are aware of how the Internet of Things may enhance risk assessment and customer support. Insurers are encouraged to engage in IoT technology by clear standards and procedures that guarantee compliance with data privacy and security requirements. The Internet of Things is bringing new ideas to the insurance industry, such pay-as-you-go or on-demand insurance. IoT data gives insurers the freedom to customize coverage to certain events or situations, giving customers greater choice over the price and coverage of their insurance. The IoT insurance industry is continuing to expand and change as a result of this move towards dynamic and customized insurance arrangements.

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IOT INSURANCE MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

The IoT insurance market is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the property and casualty insurance segment. This is because there is a growing trend in the adoption of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication products; anti-lock brake systems are being implemented to facilitate faster communication with vehicle users; and policyholders are becoming more aware of premiums.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to have substantial growth over the course of the projection period due to the rise in end-user adoption of IoT devices, such as wearables, drones, Wi-Fi dongles, and built-in sensors that offer useful data.

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Key Companies:

International Business Machines Corporation

CISCO SYSTEMS INC

SAP SE

Microsoft Corporation

GOOGLE INC

Accenture Plc

Synechron

ORACLE CORPORATION

Intel Corporation

Telit

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DISCOVER MORE INSIGHTS: EXPLORE SIMILAR REPORTS!

- In 2020, the global property insurance market revenue is USD 1613 Billion dollars; at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period from 2021 to 2027. Besides, the United States accounts for about 40.48% Market share, which is 653 billion US dollars.

- AI in IoT market was valued at USD 4513.4 Million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 10280 Million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 14.7% during the forecast period 2023-2029.

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- Insurance Policy Administration Systems Software market is projected to reach USD 478.6 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 263 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 7.8% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- IoT in Banking & Financial Service market is projected to grow from USD 1380.6 Million in 2023 to USD 6781.7 Million by 2029, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 30.4% during the forecast period.

- Internet of Things (IoT) Security market size is projected to reach USD 7722.1 Million by 2028, from USD 2087.8 Million in 2021, at a CAGR of 20.3% during 2022-2028.

- Insurance Billing Software market is projected to reach USD 491.9 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 286 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 8.0% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- FinTech in Insurance Market

- Telematics Insurance Service market is projected to reach USD 9391.8 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 4913 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 9.7% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- The online insurance market was valued at USD 53.2 billion in 2021, and is estimated to reach USD 330.1 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 20.2% from 2022 to 2031.

- The specialty insurance market was valued at USD 104.7 billion in 2021, and is estimated to reach USD 279 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2022 to 2031.

- The telecommunication insurance market was valued at USD 8.5 billion in 2021, and is estimated to reach USD 41.6 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 17.5% from 2022 to 2031.

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- Juvenile Life Insurance market was valued at USD 74310 Million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 157190 Million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 13.3% during the forecast period 2023-2029.

- Income Protection Insurance market was valued at USD 44450 Million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 52760 Million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 2.9% during the forecast period 2023-2029.

- Game Developer Insurance market is projected to reach USD 1696.3 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 1348 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 3.4% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- Comprehensive Motorcycle Insurance Market

- Logistics Insurance market is projected to grow from USD 67340 Million in 2023 to USD 81830 Million by 2029, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.3% during the forecast period.

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- Plastic Carrier Tape for Semiconductor market is projected to reach USD 773.2 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 458 Million in 2022, with the CAGR of 7.5% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- Life Insurance Software Market revenue was USD 6566.9 Million in 2022 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 9724.6 Million by 2029 with a CAGR of 5.7% during the review period (2023-2029).

- Insurtech Market

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MANCHESTER, England, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Assured, the UK and Ireland's largest independent Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provider, has launched a brand-new partnership programme designed to bring its award-winning mental health and wellbeing support to all UK employees.

Bertrand Stern-Gillet, CEO at Health Assured, says "Every day we see first-hand the benefit of employers investing in mental health and wellbeing services. Health Assured supports over 13 million lives. Over the last three years, 69% of our manager referral calls relate to physical health, mental health, or trauma; all conditions that have potential to impact on long-term health and wellbeing.

"With greater access to wellbeing support, the pressure is reduced on our National Health Service, individual recovery rates are improved and the impact of long-term health and mental health conditions on the workplace can be lessened. People returning from long-term absence can have significant concerns or fears around returning to the workplace, so having effective support in place will help to break down these barriers, making the workplace accessible to all."

A 2022 report by Deloitte estimates that mental health costs UK business 56 billion per year, and mental health is now the number one reason for workplace absence, according to the HSE's 2023 report.

The HSE found that 1.8m people reported suffering workplace-related ill health with around half of those cases down to stress, anxiety, or depression.

Health Assured's partnership programme is designed to build the healthy workforce of tomorrow.

Bertrand Stern-Gillet says "With the demand for mental health and wellbeing services growing exponentially, we've devised a partnership programme that makes it easy to help all businesses offer these necessary services to their employees, regardless of the size of their organisation.

"Our vision is to ensure everyone has access to the support that they need. We firmly believe in the benefits that workplace mental health and wellbeing services can provide to an organisation and, by extension, wider society.

"On average, employers see a return on investment of 10.85 for every 1 spent on an Employee Assistance Programme. Approximately 75% of the UK workforce currently have access to an EAP service, according to the EAPA's Holding It Together 2023 report; 24.45 million employees working across more than 105,000 organisation.

"Having access to immediate support reduces absence rates, improves productivity, boosts morale and wellbeing, all of which brings financial benefit to employers and the wider economy. Both the individual and the employer reaps the reward of better health.

"Our statistics show that 66.7% of those who are out of work at the start of therapy return to work at the end. Life satisfaction increases by 18.7% and work engagement is up 4.6% at the end of therapy.

"Widespread adoption of employee support programmes has the potential to improve worsening health statistics and ensure the UK continues to maintain its position amongst world leaders.

"At Health Assured, we're passionate about making outstanding mental health and wellbeing care accessible to everyone, to not only relieve pressures on our vital but overburdened NHS services, but to ensure that nobody faces their struggles alone."

Intermediaries and brokers who partner with Health Assured on this EAP provision receive:

Silver, gold, or platinum levels of partnership

Preferential rates

Use of our in-house marketing agency to market their EAP and wellbeing service, at no cost to them.

Industry leading EAP provision with a 97% retention rate

Dedicated account management

To find out more about the programme, visit

Notes to editor

Bertrand Stern-Gillet is available for interview

About Health Assured

The UK and Ireland's largest independent and award-winning Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provider. Years of experience with health and wellbeing; we're the only BACP-accredited EAP provider at the organizational level in the UK. Public, private, and non-profit businesses rely on our clinical expertise to provide support to over 16 million lives.

We are trusted experts in reducing stress, combating absenteeism, encouraging good mental health, and promoting positivity in the workplace. Award winning support: Your healthy advantage.

Winner of the 2023 Cover Excellence Award for Outstanding Mental Health and Wellbeing Provider.

https://www.healthassured.org/

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Abstracts to be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual Genitourinary Cancers Symposium provide insights into treatment selection and sequencing, as well as quality of life

Latest real-world data show median overall survival (OS) from start of first-line chemotherapy of about 30 months for patients treated with the JAVELIN Bladder regimen without progression following chemotherapy

Exploratory analyses suggest that in patients who received ADC therapy after the JAVELIN Bladder regimen, median OS from start of first-line chemotherapy reached 40 months in real-world study

Merck, a leading science and technology company, today announced new real-world data that continue to reinforce the JAVELIN Bladder regimen of first-line platinum-based chemotherapy followed by BAVENCIO (avelumab) maintenance as a standard of care for eligible patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) who do not progress on first-line chemotherapy. Data include real-world studies that confirm median overall survival (OS) of approximately 30 months in patients without progression after first-line chemotherapy. Additional analyses offer insights into treatment sequencing outcomes in the real world, with the first analysis of OS by next-line treatment, including in patients who received an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) such as enfortumab vedotin after the JAVELIN Bladder regimen. These and other analyses will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual Genitourinary Cancers Symposium, January 25-27, in San Francisco.

"Avelumab in the first-line maintenance setting is a standard of care for patients with locally advanced or metastatic bladder cancer, with a well-established efficacy and safety profile and supported by years of real-world experience. These new analyses add to the large body of evidence, showing avelumab maintenance treatment can help extend overall survival while potentially providing a favorable quality of life," said Philippe Barthelemy, Institut de Cancerologie Strasbourg Europe, France. "The ongoing exploratory analysis of the real-world AVENANCE study may provide new insights indicating that the initial use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen, followed by a second-line antibody-drug conjugate treatment like enfortumab vedotin, could greatly enhance overall survival outcomes for patients. These findings underscore the importance of strategic treatment sequencing in optimizing patient outcomes."

Real-world insights into treatment sequencing following the JAVELIN Bladder regimen

Real-world data and analyses by subsequent treatment from the ongoing, real-world, ambispective (retrospective and prospective) AVENANCE study in France continue to support the use of BAVENCIO first-line maintenance while also demonstrating the impact of subsequent therapies once BAVENCIO treatment is discontinued. With a median follow-up since initiation of BAVENCIO of 26.3 months, median OS from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance was 21.3 months (n=595; 95% CI, 17.6 to 24.6) in patients who did not progress on first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance. In an exploratory analysis, median OS from the start of platinum-based chemotherapy was 26.5 months (95% CI, 23.4 to 30.1). Subgroup analyses evaluated outcomes in the 330 patients who received second-line therapy, with median OS from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 31.3 months (95% CI, 29.1 to NE) in the 62 patients who received a second-line ADC (enfortumab vedotin: n=56; sacituzumab govitecan: n=6) and 16.7 months (95% CI, 13.6 to 22.8) in the 81 patients who received second-line platinum-based chemotherapy. Among the patients who received a second-line ADC, median OS measured from the start of chemotherapy was 40.8 months (95% CI, 32.6 to 42.1) in the exploratory analysis.

Long-term efficacy with the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in the real world

Real-world analyses of BAVENCIO first-line maintenance show median OS from the start of chemotherapy of at least 30 months in this population of patients who do not progress on first-line platinum-based chemotherapy, consistent with previously reported results of a long-term exploratory analysis from JAVELIN Bladder 100.

PATRIOT-II U.S. Real-World Study: The observational, retrospective PATRIOT-II study analyzed medical records from 160 U.S. patients, with median follow-up from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 16 months (range, 11-21 months). Patients who received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance treatment following chemotherapy achieved a median OS of 30.5 months measured from the start of first-line chemotherapy (95% CI, 23.4 to 37.6). Median OS was 24.4 months measured from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 20.4 to 28.4).

The observational, retrospective PATRIOT-II study analyzed medical records from 160 U.S. patients, with median follow-up from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 16 months (range, 11-21 months). Patients who received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance treatment following chemotherapy achieved a median OS of 30.5 months measured from the start of first-line chemotherapy (95% CI, 23.4 to 37.6). Median OS was 24.4 months measured from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 20.4 to 28.4). READY CUP Italy Real-World Study: The prospective, noninterventional compassionate use program (CUP) provided Italian patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC early access to BAVENCIO first-line maintenance before reimbursement. With median follow-up of 20.3 months (95% CI, 19.8 to 20.9), median OS measured from start of first-line chemotherapy was 30.9 months (95% CI, 25.7 to NE) in this population without progression after chemotherapy. Median OS from the start of maintenance treatment was 26.2 months (95% CI, 20.0 to NE).

Analyses of quality of life and efficacy in JAVELIN Bladder 100

Patient-Reported Outcomes from JAVELIN Bladder 100: This post-hoc analysis assessed long-term patient-reported outcomes (PRO) data using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network/Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Bladder Symptom Index-18 (FBlSI-18) and EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L).An analysis of scores over all cycles prior to end of BAVENCIO treatment PRO patient-reported outcomes scores were BAVENCIO treatment:, with a -2.15 mean change from baseline of -2.15 (95% CI, -3.25 to -1.04) in the FBISI-18 score and -.07 (95% CI, -.09 to -.05) in the EQ-5D-5L index score. In patients with 12 months or more of BAVENCIO treatment, there was a 1.28 mean change from baseline (95% CI, .08 to 2.49) in the FBISI-18 score and a -.02 mean change in the EQ-5D-5L index score further supporting the use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in eligible patients with advanced UC until progression or unacceptable toxicity.

This post-hoc analysis assessed long-term patient-reported outcomes (PRO) data using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network/Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Bladder Symptom Index-18 (FBlSI-18) and EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L).An analysis of scores over all cycles prior to end of BAVENCIO treatment PRO patient-reported outcomes scores were BAVENCIO treatment:, with a -2.15 mean change from baseline of -2.15 (95% CI, -3.25 to -1.04) in the FBISI-18 score and -.07 (95% CI, -.09 to -.05) in the EQ-5D-5L index score. In patients with 12 months or more of BAVENCIO treatment, there was a 1.28 mean change from baseline (95% CI, .08 to 2.49) in the FBISI-18 score and a -.02 mean change in the EQ-5D-5L index score further supporting the use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in eligible patients with advanced UC until progression or unacceptable toxicity. High BMI Subgroup Analysis from JAVELIN Bladder 100: This exploratory subgroup analysis (n=122) showed the efficacy and safety of BAVENCIO maintenance treatment in patients with a high body mass index (BMI; =30 kg/m2)-a key patient population given that high BMI is a risk factor for bladder cancer, and 25% of the world's population is anticipated to have a high BMI by 2035. In patients with high BMI at baseline, median OS for patients receiving BAVENCIO maintenance therapy plus BSC was 20.8 months from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 16.9 to 34.4), compared with 12.7 months (95% CI, 8.1 to 26.6 months) for BSC alone (HR: 0.77; 95% CI, 0.49 to 1.21). Long-term safety for patients with high BMI was consistent with results from the overall population.

"The JAVELIN Bladder 100 study helped transform the standard of care for patients with advanced bladder cancer, at a time when there had been few advancements in decades. By continuing to share new research on BAVENCIO, including data on health-related quality of life, key patient populations, and treatment sequencing, we can further support clinicians in making informed treatment decisions for each individual patient," said Tamas Suto, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President Head of Medical Unit Oncology, Merck.

All company presentations in urothelial cancer at ASCO GU 2024 are listed below.

Title Lead Author, Abstract and Session Details (all times PT) Real-world treatment patterns (tx) and clinical outcomes in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) in Germany: Results of a retrospective observational study (CONVINCE) S. Machtens



Abstract #551

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) in the Czech Republic: Interim real-world results from a national reimbursement registry A Zemankova



Abstract #557

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Updated subgroup analyses from READY: REAl-world Data from an Italian compassionate use program (CUP) of avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) treatment for locallY advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) S Bracarda



Abstract #558

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Updated results from AVENANCE: Real-world effectiveness of avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in patients (pts) with advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC) and analysis of subsequent treatment P Barthelemy



Abstract #561

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) for advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC): Long-term patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in the phase 3 JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial P Grivas Abstract #581

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Clinical outcomes with split-dose cisplatin-based regimens in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC): results of a systematic literature review (SLR) and network meta-analysis (NMA) R O'Dwyer



Abstract #589

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line (1L) maintenance for advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC): long-term outcomes from the JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial in patients (pts) with high body mass index (BMI) J Aragon-Ching Abstract #600 Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Real-world (rw) treatment patterns, sequencing, and outcomes in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) receiving avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in the US HH Moon Abstract #605

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Platinum eligibility (PE) criteria for patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC): results of a physician survey in 5 European countries S Gupta Abstract #696 Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance therapy for locally advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma: results from the real-world PATRIOT-II study P Grivas



Abstract #697

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45

About JAVELIN Bladder 100

JAVELIN Bladder 100 (NCT02603432) is a Phase III, multicenter, multinational, randomized, open-label, parallel-arm study investigating first-line maintenance treatment with BAVENCIO plus BSC versus BSC alone in patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC. The primary endpoint was OS in the two primary populations of all patients and patients with PD-L1+ tumors defined by the Ventana SP263 assay. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival, anti-tumor activity, safety, pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, predictive biomarkers and patient-reported outcomes in the co-primary populations. All primary and secondary endpoints are measured from the time of randomization.

About Urothelial Carcinoma

Bladder cancer is the tenth most common cancer worldwide.1 In 2020, there were over half a million new cases of bladder cancer diagnosed, with around 200,000 deaths from the disease globally.1 In the US, an estimated 83,730 cases of bladder cancer were diagnosed in 2021, with around 10,000 locally advanced or metastatic cases presented annually.2 UC, which accounts for about 90% of all bladder cancers,3 becomes harder to treat as it advances, spreading through the layers of the bladder wall.4 Only 25% to 55% of patients receive any second-line therapy after first-line chemotherapy.5 In the US and EU5 markets, approximately 40% to 50% of patients receive an immune checkpoint inhibitor in second-line therapy.2 For patients with advanced UC, the five-year survival rate is 6.4%.2

About BAVENCIO(avelumab)

BAVENCIO is a human anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody. BAVENCIO has been shown in preclinical models to engage both the adaptive and innate immune functions. By blocking the interaction of PD-L1 with PD-1 receptors, BAVENCIO has been shown to release the suppression of the T cell-mediated antitumor immune response in preclinical models.6-8

BAVENCIO Approved Indications

BAVENCIO (avelumab) is indicated in the US for the maintenance treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that has not progressed with first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy. BAVENCIO is also indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy, or have disease progression within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib is indicated in the US for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

In the US, BAVENCIO is indicated for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

BAVENCIO is currently approved for at least one indication for patients in more than 50 countries.

BAVENCIO Safety Profile from the EU Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)

The special warnings and precautions for use for BAVENCIO monotherapy include infusion-related reactions, as well as immune-related adverse reactions that include pneumonitis and hepatitis (including fatal cases), colitis, pancreatitis (including fatal cases), myocarditis (including fatal cases), endocrinopathies, nephritis and renal dysfunction, and other immune-related adverse reactions. The special warnings and precautions for use for BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib include hepatotoxicity.

The SmPC list of the most common adverse reactions with BAVENCIO monotherapy in patients with solid tumors includes fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, infusion-related reactions, weight decreased and vomiting. The list of most common adverse reactions with BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib includes diarrhea, hypertension, fatigue, nausea, dysphonia, decreased appetite, hypothyroidism, cough, headache, dyspnea, and arthralgia.

All Merck press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck website. In case you are a resident of the USA or Canada, please go to www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service.

About Merck

Merck, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. More than 64,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices the company is everywhere. In 2022, Merck generated sales of 22.2 billion in 66 countries.

The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark "Merck" internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck operate as MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare and EMD Electronics in electronics. Since its founding in 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the company's technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company.

References

Sung H, et al. Global cancer statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2021;0:1-41. SEER. Cancer stat facts: bladder cancer. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/urinb.html. Accessed February 2022. Cancer.net. Bladder cancer: introduction. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/bladder-cancer/introduction. Accessed February 2022. American Cancer Society. What is bladder cancer? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/about/what-is-bladder-cancer.html. Accessed February 2022. Cheeseman S, et al. Current treatment and outcomes benchmark for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer from a large UK-based single centre. Front Oncol. 2020;10:167. Boyerinas B, Jochems C, Fantini M, et al. Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity of a novel anti-PD-L1 antibody avelumab (MSB0010718C) on human tumor cells. Cancer Immunol Res. 2015;3(10):1148-1157. Dolan DE, Gupta S. PD-1 pathway inhibitors: changing the landscape of cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Control. 2014;21(3):231-237. Dahan R, Sega E, Engelhardt J, et al. Fc?Rs modulate the anti-tumor activity of antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Cancer Cell. 2015;28(3):285-295.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122118817/en/

Contacts:

noelle.piscitelli@emdserono.com

Phone: +1 (781) 427-4351
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Pasofino Gold Limited (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A) ("Pasofino" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement of up to 6,291,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at C$0.50 (or US$0.37) per Unit for gross proceeds of up to C$3,145,500 (US$2,330,000) (the "Offering").

Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a "Unit Share") and half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.65 for a period of 18 months following the issue date of the Units.

As disclosed in the Company's January 4, 2024 and January 11, 2024 press releases, Hummingbird Resources plc (AIM: HUM) ("HB PLC") a shareholder (51%) and control person of the Company has dedicated US$2 million of the proceeds of its recent fund raise to invest in Pasofino. Accordingly, HB PLC has expressed an interest in subscribing for 5,400,000 Units.

As previously disclosed in the Company's January 17, 2022 press release, Esan Eczacibasi Endustriyel Hammaddeler Sanayi ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi ("ESAN"), a shareholder (10%) and insider of the Company, has the right, but not the obligation, to subscribe under any private placement or prospectus offering of the Company in such amount as would permit ESAN to maintain its shareholding interest in the Company. Accordingly, ESAN has expressed its interest in subscribing for 891,000 Units.

Following completion of the Offering, ESAN would own 10% of the issued and outstanding shares of Pasofino and HB PLC would own 53% of the issued and outstanding shares.

The Offering is expected to close in January 2024 and is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, the conditional listing approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and the applicable securities regulatory authorities. The securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a hold period in Canada expiring four months and one day from the closing date of the Offering.

The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The net proceeds of the Offering will be used by the Company in connection with advancement of the Dugbe Gold Project and working capital. The funds will be used to optimise the 2022 Definitive Feasibility Study through FY-2024 and further progress the Project. Several opportunities to maximise the value of Dugbe and reduce the overall project capex profile have been identified, including the optimisation of power usage, improvements to the metallurgical recovery rates and additional exploration activities.

ABOUT THE DUGBE GOLD PROJECT

The 2,302 km2 Dugbe Gold Project is in southern Liberia and situated within the southwestern corner of the Birimian Supergroup which is host to most West African gold deposits. To date, two deposits have been identified on the Dugbe Gold Project: Dugbe F and Tuzon discovered by Hummingbird entities in 2009 and 2011, respectively. The deposits are located within 4 km of the Dugbe Shear Zone which is thought to have played a role in large scale gold mineralization in the area.

The TSX Venture Exchange has not approved or disapproved of the information contained herein.

Related Party Transaction

Each of HB PLC and ESAN are insiders of Pasofino and are participating in thee Offering. The Offering is therefore a "Related Party Transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company relied upon the exemptions from the minority shareholder approval and valuation requirements set out in Sections 5.7(1)(a) and 5.5(a), respectively, of MI 61-101. The Offering including the subscriptions of HB PLC and ESAN, was approved unanimously by the directors of the Company.

ABOUT PASOFINO GOLD LTD.

Pasofino Gold Ltd. is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSX-V (VEIN).

Pasofino, through its wholly owned subsidiary, owns 100% of the Dugbe Gold Project (prior to the issuance of the Government of Liberia's 10% carried interest).

For further information, please visit www.pasofinogold.com or contact:

Lincoln Greenidge, CFO

T: 416 451 0049

E: lgreenidge@pasofinogold.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "seek", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include, without limitation, statements regarding the ability to raise the funds to finance its ongoing business activities including the acquisition of mineral projects and the exploration and development of its projects. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to, the ability to successfully complete the Offering, the ability to obtain all requisite regulatory approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, the ability to apply the proceeds as intended, the results of business operation, the results of exploration activities; the ability of the Company to complete further exploration activities; timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms and those risk factors outlined in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis as filed on SEDAR. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR

DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195207

SOURCE: Pasofino Gold Limited
Artisse AI, a Hong Kong-based company which specializes in human-centric AI image technology, raised $6.7M in Seed funding.

The round was led by The London Fund.

The company intends to use the funds to further accelerate the business.

Led by CEO William Wu, Artisse is a company providing AI and blockchain technologies for industries, which delivers realistic imagery at scale using proprietary generative AI technology. The app empowers individuals to create personalized photos instantly, to choose settings, postures, clothing, hairstyles, and facial expressions to generate outputs in a matter of minutes. The company offers business solutions across numerous sectors such as advertising, modeling, lifestyle, tourism, and intellectual property.

Artisse was downloaded over 200,000 times within the first few weeks of launch and has gone viral around the world from Thailand to Argentina.

FinSMEs

22/01/2024
Digital Color Concepts, a Mountainside, New Jersey and New York manufacturer of folding carton packaging and leading provider of premium commercial print services, announced a majority equity recapitalization by Sherburne Partners.

Genesis Park, a Houston-based private investment firm, provided debt financing to support the transaction.

The investment aims to accelerate the companys growth in packaging operations, enable DCCs management team to optimize the business and strengthen its commitment to customer satisfaction. DCC will continue to be led by the existing management team, including industry veterans President Don Terwilliger and CEO Stephen Pandolfi, who will remain significant equity holders in the business.

Digital Color Concepts is a fully integrated folding carton and specialty graphics company specializing in high-quality offset & digital printing, large format signage, warehousing, fulfillment, & pick and pack with drop shipping services. DCC supports the industrys highest social and environmental standards while providing a premium experience for its clients.

FinSMEs

22/01/2024
Everphone, a Berlin, Germany-based Device-as-a-Service platform for corporate smartphones and tablets, secured 270m in financing.

Backers included Citigroup, Phoenix Insurance, and KfW.

In addition, the company secured equity in the Series-D financing round from Capnor and their partner Calista, as well as from existing investors including founder Jan Dzulko himself, Cadence Growth Capital, signal ventures, and Alleycorp.

The company intends to use the funds to further strengthen its position as a global leader as a Device-as-a-Service platform, preparing for international expansion and achieving profitability.

Founded by Jan Dzulko in 2016, Everphone is the one-stop solution for company smartphones and tablets. The company handles everything from sourcing, configuration, device administration, security as well as the handling of broken devices and returns for companies and organizations. Everphone already manages more than 350,000 devices for more than 1,000 companies, among them international consulting firms and multiple DAX companies.

The company employs about 300 people in Berlin, Munich (both Germany), and Miami, Florida. In 2023, Everphone increased its revenue to over  75m and doubled its EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) to  30m. This strategic capital infusion will enable Everphone to not only continue increasing revenue but also

FinSMEs

22/01/2024
FITFCK

Fitfck, a London, UK-based fitness dating brand, received an investment from Nathaniel Massiah, at a 15m valuation.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its business reach un the USA.

Founded by Wykes-Hobday, Fitfck is a fitness dating brand designed to connect like minded gym lovers through IRL fitness dating events and a mobile fitness dating app.

FinSMEs

22/01/2024
Huler, a Stoke on Trent, UK-based worktech company providing an employee experience platform (EXP), raised a further 1.5m in funding.

The backer was MEIF Proof of Concept & Early Stage Fund, which is managed by Mercia Ventures and part of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), and Mercias EIS funds. The investment follows an earlier round from Mercia and MEIF in December 2022, bringing the total funding to 3.5m.

The company intends to use the funds for further development of the platform and enable the -based company to increase revenues and create ten new roles.

Founded by HR and worktech expert Nicky Hoyland, who joined forces with Stoke entrepreneur Gareth Mobley, founder and former CEO of DW3 Products Group, HulerHub is a SaaS (software as a service) platform that enables HR teams to simplify employee communications and information access. It acts as a digital window, bringing together all the different software programs, apps and content that employees need in one place, whilst providing important insights for HR teams to better understand how to connect and engage different teams.

Launched in early 2022, it was quickly adopted by clients including Travelodge, Centrica, EE, Qinetiq, St Jamess Place Wealth Management and US-based Dairy Queen, with many of them going on to expand its use within their business. Huler is on course to increase annual recurring revenue by 160% in the current financial year.

As part of the deal, the company has appointed David Kelly as Chief Revenue Officer. He has more than 20 years experience in HR tech businesses including at IBM, where he led its talent management solutions business in Europe.

FinSMEs

22/01/2024
It is expected that the agriculture budget for 2024-25 will follow the multi-pronged approach of supporting the sector at various levels

India is an agrarian nation with about 55 per cent of its population dependent on agriculture as their primary source of income. The agriculture sector in India contributed 18.4 per cent to the total GVA of the country for the year 2022-23. It grew at a rate of 3.3 per cent over last year and is projected to grow at a rate of 3.6 per cent in the future. A nation that is so heavily reliant on agriculture needs constant focus of the policymakers. The agriculture ministry was allocated ~2.8 per cent of the union budget 2023-24 along with ~3.8 per cent fertiliser subsidy.

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Even though the agriculture industry has changed significantly in the last few decades, farmers are still unable to realise higher prices due to issues like fragmented landholdings, low productivity, limited mechanisation, few opportunities for value addition and a lack of credit availability. Another significant issue is the ineffective extension system, which makes it difficult for modern agricultural practices to reach every farmer and leads to the continued employment of antiquated, basic farming techniques.

The sector requires constant developments to improve productivity, produce quality, levels of mechanisation and automation, levels of processing and value addition, access to information etc. This would be possible by the adoption of cutting-edge-tech in agriculture like artificial intelligence (AI), geographic information systems (GIS), drones, and remote sensing-based technologies along with the development of proper infrastructure for storage and processing of agri commodities (both perishables and non-perishables). These interventions would help India attain self-sufficiency and reach its maximum potential as a global exporter.

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1. Productivity improvement: Higher levels of productivity will ensure a better per-acre income at the farmer level across the country. Even though India is one of the worlds top producers, its output still trails behind other developed nations. In comparison to India, which produces 2.4 tonnes of rice and 3 tonnes of wheat per hectare, China produces 6.7 tonnes of rice and 5 tonnes of wheat per hectare1. Our scientific community is aware of how productivity levels can be improved, so proper transmission of the know-how at the farmer level should be ensured. This should be aided by adequate fiscal and non-fiscal policy support.

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2. Enhancing storage infrastructure: In India, post-harvest losses of around 16 per cent of fruits and vegetables, 10 per cent of oilseeds, 9 per cent of pulses, and 6 per cent of cereals occur every year, mostly as a result of poor storage conditions. Ample steel silos and warehouses should be made available, and they should be outfitted with contemporary sensors to minimize food grain losses and strengthen the system. Along with packhouses, a network of micro-cold storages should be developed to help reduce fruit and vegetable waste on farms and provide farmers with a longer selling window.

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3. Driving technology adoption: Agri-tech market size is currently estimated to be over $13 billion, and the agribusiness sector expects a spike in digital usage. Initiatives from the government, such as the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Scheme, Digital Agriculture Mission, and Digital Public Agriculture Infrastructure, are designed to encourage Agri-entrepreneurs and promote farmer-centric solutions, hence accelerating the growth of Agri-tech. To increase farmer productivity and profitability, the government should work to promote the use of Agri-tech solutions including drone-based agriculture, IoT-based real-time data collecting systems, and AI-based precision agriculture.

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4. Efficient knowledge network: The dissemination of knowledge to farmers needs to be modernized, the agricultural extension machinery of the country needs to leverage smartphone penetration and other digital and physical media to reach out to a maximum number of farmers. The countrys extension system needs to be modernized and in line with evolving technology which will, as a result, allow the ground workers to reach out to more farmers with precise information as well as higher retention by farmers. To affect this transition, the private seed and pesticide firms business model can serve as an inspiration.

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5. Modernisation of mandis: Efforts have been made to digitalize the agricultural markets at the central level to develop platforms to link sellers and buyers. Many states have also set up e-mandis at state level to improve transparency and smoothen operations. Now the need is to make sure that our farmers and traders can utilise this digital infrastructure and ensure its upkeep. Relevant mandis across the country also need to provide facilities like grading, sorting, drying etc. to help farmers realize better prices for their produce.

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Conclusion

It is expected that the agriculture budget for 2024-25 will follow the multi-pronged approach of supporting the sector at various levels. Different challenges that are a pain-point for the farming community like yield improvement, price realisation, information access etc. would be addressed via budget allocation under different subheads. This will foster innovation, enhance productivity, and improve farmers livelihoods.

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Anand Ramanathan is Partner, Consumer Industry Leader, Consulting, Deloitte India and Mita Chopra is Associate Director, Consulting, Deloitte India. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Feature: French theater director's 20-year ties with Chinese operas

Xinhua) 16:36, January 22, 2024

PARIS, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- French theater director Patrick Sommier has been devoted to passing on the true meaning of Chinese operas which, according to him, are the assembly of all art forms, to the French public.

On the occasion of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France in 2004, Sommier was invited to collaborate on a joint project with the Beijing Vocational College of Opera and Arts (BVCOA) to perform Beijing Opera in France.

Sommier told Xinhua that when he arrived in China, like many others in Europe, he listed "plenty of cliches about Chinese opera: magnificent costumes, multicolored make-up, extraordinary acrobatic movements..."

Unexpectedly, the beauty of Beijing Opera "quickly" captured his heart, he said. Recalling his collaboration with the BVCOA, for the first time, Sommier was impressed by the vigor of the actor hidden behind the make-up and costumes, and the characters of incredible strength from the Chinese classics that evoked thoughts of the Greek tragedy genre.

He was also touched by the Chinese professors who passed their know-how to their students by acting together with them, which is different from how the French did in the theater world, he added. "In China, opera is an art requiring lifelong devotion and actors are the embodiment of the opera."

Since then, Sommier started delving into various performance forms and advocated introducing traditional Chinese operas to French audiences.

Following Sommier's suggestion, the BVCOA in 2005 staged innovative performances whose first half featured professors and students collaborating on stage without make-up or costumes, while the second half showcased students performing classics like "Farewell My Concubine" in a traditional manner.

The performances drew a total of over 22,000 spectators, and over 7,000 French students participated in the workshops on Chinese opera make-up and body gestures.

Expressing his hope that the audience truly understands the beauty of Beijing Opera instead of just watching it with a "tourist gaze" focusing on the exoticism of the art, Sommier said: "Theater is not a product to consume, but a real cultural meeting and an approach towards what we do not know. Apart from pleasures, it should intrigue people to make a bit of effort to understand unfamiliar things."

In 2010, Sommier extended his cooperation with the BVCOA and brought the newly created version of the Chinese classic "Water Margin" to the stage.

Over the years, Sommier has continued to discover and promote different Chinese operas. In the southeastern Chinese city of Quanzhou in Fujian Province, he was fascinated by Liyuan Opera, which he said was "the best ever seen" by him.

In 2014, on the occasion of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic ties, he brought Liyuan Opera to Paris and many other European cities on tour.

Last year, Sommier published his book "Ximi," which means "Theater Enthusiast" in English, dedicating a significant portion of it to recounting his experiences with Chinese operas.

Noting that "theater constitutes another step" toward the Chinese culture and "the image of China is underrepresented in the world," he said, "The differences between Chinese operas and French theater enrich the public's view and thus enrich the image of a country."

The year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, and also the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. Numerous bilateral cultural events, including theater shows, are scheduled for the two peoples.

Having served as a cultural courier between the two countries for two decades, Sommier hopes that the French and Chinese will mutually impress each other with high-quality shows.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Britains royal family was going through a tough time with twin health crises of King Charles, Kate Middleton and Prince William. Prince Harry speaking to his sister-in-law Kate Middleton behind wife Meghan Markles back is a complete NO.

According to New York Post report, Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield refuted The Mirrors recent report that Middleton, 41, feels sorry for Harry, 38, and supports him through secret, late-night phone calls.

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The relationship between the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and the Prince and Princess of Wales is strained for a long time now especially after the release of Netflixs controversial docudrama Harry & Meghan.

On her podcast To Di For Daily, Schofield said that Harry is trying to act defiant amid the ongoing family drama. Schofield adds, I personally dont believe that Harry would speak to Catherine privately without Meghans blessing, she added. She also claimed that William, 41, and Middleton are too laser-focused on their goals to worry about Harry and Markles hoopla and have made it a point to distance themselves.

A significant amount of Williams unhappiness toward Harry revolves around Harry & Meghan discussing Catherine so openly to Oprah and within Spare, Schofield told Fox News on Monday, referencing Harrys bombshell tell-all memoir.

Meghan controls Harrys life

Its an open secret that Meghan is a complete control freak. According to many repots, it is Meghan who wears the pant in the relationship. There was a rumour going around during 2018 that Meghan Markle had banned Prince Harry from attending the royal familys traditional Christmas pheasant shoot. Harry had to drop many of his close friends because Meghan didnt want him to be see with them.

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Firstpost had earlier written how Meghan is a control freak and the mastermind behind Harrys controversial memoir Spare . The rumors, according to royal expert Tom Bower, are coming out of London. There are many now in London who say Meghan is getting tired of Harry. There is speculation that the Duchess of Sussex, 41, will at any moment say This is enough and negotiate with King Charles III some deal to break off the marriage.

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(With inputs from agencies)
Apart from that, the National Award-winning actor answered many other interesting questions posed by his fans during the AMA session

Counted among one of the most versatile and talented actors in Bollywood, actor Pankaj Tripathi recently took up a challenging role as he portrayed the role of former late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Tripathi was seen in the biopic of the former prime minister  Main Atal Hoon , where he showcased the life of Vajpayee, delving into his role as a politician. At a time when the actor is receiving both positive reviews along with a bit of criticism on the sidelines of his latest release, he recently engaged in an interesting Ask Me Anything session with his fans on Reddit.

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In response to fan questions, Pankaj Tripathi gave a series of interesting responses to several topics, including his experience of collaborating with Shah Rukh Khan and also his 2021 film Mimi which earned him a National Award.

Pankaj Tripathi calls SRK a superb co-actor

Beginning with a question from a curious fan about his working experience after collaborating with the Bollywood superstar in the 2015 film Dilwale, Pankaj Tripathi with a lot of admiration wrote, Bohut hi shandar. He is a superb co-star.

While fans were in awe of the actors response, another curious fan asked him about a script that the actor didnt like but later changed his mind. In response to this, the Stree actor wrote, That film was Mimi and I got a national award for the same film. Abhi lagta hai chhod deta to malaal hota.

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Apart from that, the National Award-winning actor answered many other interesting questions posed by his fans during the AMA session.

Work front

On the work front, Pankaj Tripathi who recently featured in his much-awaited project Main Atal Hoon has a series of notable projects in the pipeline. From the highly-anticipated horror comedy film Stree 2 to Anurag Basus Metro In Dino, Tripathi, looking forward, has some exciting films to offer.

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During his AMA session, he also teased fans with a hilarious comment about Stree 2. As a fan asked for an update on the film, he wrote, Balak kyun darna chahtey ho?, followed by a gif saying Risk hai.
Many Bollywood celebrities have landed in Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony that include Kangana Ranaut, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rohit Shetty, and Madhuri Dixit

As the nation gears up for the historic and prestigious Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony, many Bollywood celebrities have landed in Ayodhya to witness the same.

Ranbir Kapoor , Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif were clicked together and also in the frame were Ayushmann Khurrana, Rohit Shetty, and Madhuri Dixit.

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Actor Kangana Ranaut says its her good fortune to be invited for the Ram temple consecration ceremony here on Monday.

The 36-year-old actor on Sunday met her spiritual guru Rambhadracharya and participated in a yagya at a temple here.

Ranaut , who reached Ayodhya on Saturday, said devotees are waiting for Lord Rams arrival.

I have come here to meet my Guru Rambhadracharya ji. Many priests are carrying out rituals and reciting verses in the name of Lord Hanuman. The energy here is miraculous.

Its my good fortune that Im getting an opportunity to be part of this (consecration) ceremony. We all are busy making arrangements to welcome Ram Lalla ji. The whole city of Ayodhya is decked up with flowers to welcome Him. May Lord Ram bless us. Jai Shri Ram! the actor told reporters here.

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Ranaut also paid a visit to the Hanuman Garhi temple for a clean-up drive, but she said she had to leave soon after she was mobbed.

Actor couple Randeep Hooda and Lin Laishram, who were spotted at the Mumbai airport before heading to Ayodhya on Sunday, said the Ram temple ceremony is a big day for Indian culture.

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Shri Ram is not only a religious symbol but he also represents our culture and civilisation. This day will bring everyone across the country and world together. We are happy to be a part of this event, Hooda said.
As the consecration ceremony concludes, all roads lead to the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The temple town is all set for the influx of tourists. New hotels and real estate projects are coming up, jobs are on the rise and local traders are making profits. The mandir is good for business

With the new Ram temple, Ayodhya is set for a big change. The temple town on the banks of the Sarayu River is abuzz with activity. Its where Indias most powerful and influential people gathered for the consecration of the historic shrine.

22 January will go down in history  a day that will not only see the opening of the grand Ram temple but one that will change the fortunes of the town and its people. The mandir is expected to usher in a tourism boom and thats going to be good for business.

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Ayodhya is the new destination for investment. From real estate developers to hotel owners, from airlines to corporates, all eyes are set on the town in eastern Uttar Pradesh. This means more jobs for locals and more money for the state.

Dont miss: Ayodhya Ram Temple Inauguration LIVE:

The makeover of Ayodhya

Ayodhya has been prepping for the Ram temple . Once all the celebrities leave, its the everyday tourists who are expected to throng the town and it is ready for the influx.

Development has been on the cards and December saw the foundation stone-laying of projects worth Rs 11,100 crore. The town has a new airport terminal , spread over 6,500 square metres, which is set to cater to a million passengers every year. The Ayodhya Dham railway station was revamped for Rs 240 crore with amenities like airconditioned retiring rooms, dormitories, lodging rooms for the staff and more.

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Ayodhya will be home to a greenfield town, spread over 1,200 acres and valued at Rs 2,180 crore. It will have plots designated for mutts, ashrams, dharmashalas, and commercial purposes. The project has been initiated by the Uttar Pradesh government to alleviate congestion in the town once the influx of tourists begins.

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The infrastructure growth includes connecting highways, refurbished roads, water, and power projects.

According to Gaurav Dayal, the divisional commissioner of Ayodhya, 102 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the Global Investors Summit, totalling around Rs 18,000 crore for tourism in Ayodhya, reports News18. Several entrepreneurs have submitted proposals to the government and district administration, expressing keen interest in investing in Ayodhyas tourism sector.

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Under the Ayodhya Master Plan 2031, projects worth Rs 85,000 crore are in the pipeline to upgrade the towns infrastructure.

Hospitality boom: Hotels and homes

Currently, Ayodhya has approximately 17 hotels with around 590 rooms. But that will not be enough to accommodate the hundreds and thousands of pilgrims who will visit to see the new Ram temple.

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Top hotel chains have their eyes set on Ayodhya. More than 50 big hotel construction projects are underway in and around the temple town. These include leading names in the hospital industry like the Taj, Oberoi, Trident, Marriott, Radisson and Ginger.

Ayodhya will also get the worlds first seven-star vegetarian-only hotel, which will be built by a Mumbai-based real-estate firm The House Of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL). We have received 25 proposals to set up hotels in Ayodhya, one of the proposals is to build a pure vegetarian seven-star hotel, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said recently.

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O Rama Hotels and Resorts project will build one of the biggest hotels in the city at the cost of Rs 140 crore. Around Rs 420 crore will be invested in other big industry projects, reports News18.

Ahead of the consecration, the online search for accommodation in Ayodhya surged. On booking.com, a travel portal, more than 75 per cent of the places selected for stay were unavailable. The platform has a list of 20 hotels, 12 apartments, 12 entire homes, seven homestays and six guest houses.

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Several hotels and other accommodations have reportedly raised their tariffs with some increasing rates by 200 times the regular fare, the News18 report says.

By mid-December, hotel rooms which were selling at Rs 17,000 per night were going for Rs 73,000. The Ayodhya Tent City, which has 30 luxurious air-conditioned tents, was fully booked for 22 January with each tent sold at Rs 30,000 a night. The staff at the Tent City expects 100 per cent occupancy for a few weeks after the inauguration.

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Apart from hotels, the Lodha group also plans to develop residential plots, villas and high-rise luxury apartments in Ayodhya. The prices of land have surged.

Jaideep Dang, head of hotels & hospitality, India at real estate services firm JLL told Business Today, The realtors and hoteliers growing interest in the city has resulted in a threefold surge in land prices in the recent past as prominent developers from Mumbai and Delhi are purchasing land parcels.

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Airlines and railways

Indias air carriers like IndiGo and Air India Express have launched multiple flights connecting major cities with Ayodhya. Other airlines like Akasa Air and SpiceJet are unveiling plans to enhance air travel to the town.

Arrangements have also been made at the newly inaugurated airport to accommodate chartered flights that ferry VVIPs. More than 100 chartered planes landed at the airport ahead of the consecration ceremony.

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Indian Railways has also introduced 200 Aastha Special Trains to Ayodhya after 22 January. Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi will have these services for devotees. There will also be trains from the Northeast likely originating from Assams Guwahati.

The rise in tourists

The Ram temple will give a further push to Indias booming spiritual tourism .

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Officials in the Ayodhya Development Authority expected 7,000 guests for the inauguration ceremony. Three to five lakh visitors are likely to visit the town every day for at least a month after the inauguration, according to a report on CNBCTV18.

With more than $10 billion in investments made in new airports, revamped railway stations, townships, and improved roads, the city is expected to attract around 50 million to 10 million footfall every year, according to a report by Jefferies, an American investment bank and financial services.

More jobs and more business for locals

Ahead of the opening, hospitality, travel and tourism created 20,000 jobs in Ayodhya, according to a report in Economic Times. With hotels and real estate projects coming up and the influx of tourists, more job opportunities will be created.

Yeshab Giri, chief commercial officer at Randstad India, estimated the creation of 20,000 to 25,000 permanent and temporary jobs. That number is expected to increase annually.

And it is not Ayodhya alone that will profit. Even neighbouring cities like Lucknow, Kanpur and Gorakhpur are expected to see the benefit.

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) said that the consecration ceremony alone was expected to generate business worth Rs 1 lakh crore across the country.

This event not only resonates with religious sentiments but also brings a surge in economic activities. The faith and trust of people are leading to the creation of many new businesses based on the countrys traditional economic system, Praveen Khandelwal, national secretary general of CAIT, told PTI.

There is a demand for replicas of the temple, clothes with images of Ram, banners, flags, banners and more. And the local trades in Ayodhya are benefitting.

The average resident has traditionally had an income lower than the per capita income of Uttar Pradesh. The per capita income of Ayodhya increased to Rs 32,293 by 2018-19, from Rs 24,800 in 2011-12, at a compound annual growth rate of 3.8 per cent, reports Business Standard. And it is only expected to go up.

Arvind Awasthi, pro-vice chancellor at the University of Lucknow, told Al Jazeera that the state economy grew 14.3 per cent in the last financial year ending March 2023 and is expected to rise to 19 per cent in the current fiscal year mostly because of the economic boom in Ayodhya.

The Ram temple is good for business. The people of Ayodhya are hailing its opening louder than others.

With inputs from agencies
Ancient viruses are frozen in the Arctic permafrost and global warming could lead to their release, unleashing a major outbreak. But can scientists stop diseases from the past from infecting people?

What could be the next pandemic? And will the world be prepared to handle it? The questions continue to haunt us. Shockingly, you and I could be responsible for the next deadly disease that could plague mankind.

Scientists have warned of a bizarre new pandemic threat. It could be caused by the unleashing of zombie viruses. Frozen in the Arctic permafrost, these ancient viruses could be released by the warming climate of the planet, leading to a major disease outbreak.

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What are zombie viruses?

It is not a new illness but one from the past. Methuselah microbes, also called zombie viruses, have been trapped in the permafrost in Siberia for tens and thousands of years.

Last year, scientists revived a zombie virus which had been frozen in a lake in Siberia for almost 50,000 years.

The research by the French National Centre for Scientific Research found viruses which have been dormant since prehistorical times. Scientists discovered 13 frozen viruses in seven different samples, including the Pandoravirus, which is 48,000 years old, according to a report in the Independent.

A team led by geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie, who revived several such viruses, say they are capable of infecting only single-cell organisms. However, scientists fear that they could infect humans who are accessing the permafrost.

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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, Professor Claverie told CNN last year.

Say hello to arctic zombie viruses: "Research published last year revealed the existence of several different viral strains from seven different sites in Siberia and showed these could infect cultured cells. One virus sample was 48,500 years old."https://t.co/8AlVnN7f1N  Jeff Goodell (@jeffgoodell) January 21, 2024

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Why are these ancient viruses a threat now?

Scientists say that global warming is thawing the permafrost, resulting in the release of organic matter consisting of these viruses.

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There is an increase in human activity in the northmost parts of the Earth. The global heating has increased human interference in this region. As the sea ice melts, shipping and other industrial possibilities like mining are being explored in the permafrost, which covers a fifth of the northern hemisphere, mostly Serbia, Canada and Alaska.

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This also means that it exposes people exploring this region to the viruses.

Huge mining operations are being planned, and are going to drive vast holes into the deep permafrost to extract oil and ores 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, warned Prof Claverie.

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Also read: The Awakening: How scientists have revived a 48,500-year-old zombie virus Can a pandemic caused by zombie viruses be prevented?

Prof Claverie and other scientists are working with the University of the Arctic network to detect early cases of a disease caused the the ancient viruses. The plan is to establish quarantine facilities and provide medical expertise that could detect and treat any early cases, preventing infected people from leaving the region.

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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 Observer. 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.

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According to him, there are viruses there that have the potential to infect humans and start a new disease outbreak. The team has so far identified genomic traces of human pathogens like pox viruses and herpes viruses in the Siberian permafrost.

Our immune systems may have never been in contact with some of those microbes, and that is another worry The scenario of an unknown virus once infecting a Neanderthal coming back at us, although unlikely, has become a real possibility, he warned.

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Backing Prof Claverie, virologist Marion Koopmans of the Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam said that viruses lying in the permafrost were unknown but posed a threat. 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, said Koopmans.

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Also read: Why Disease X is being discussed at Davos 2024

Why do viruses thrive in the permafrost?

The average temperature in the Arctic has already risen at a rate three times higher than the global average. The region is witnessing the highest rate of average temperature change, reports the World Wide Fund for Nature.

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The crucial point about permafrost is that it is cold, dark and lacks oxygen, which is perfect for preserving biological material, Prof Claverie told The Observer last week.

Prof Koopmans said that change in land use has led to past epidemics and this is what is happening in the Arctic right now. If you look at the history of epidemic outbreaks, one of the key drivers has been change in land use. The 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. With inputs from agencies
For Nripendra Misra, today (22 January) is a significant day. Hes the chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee. Since 2020, the former principal secretary to the PM has been working tirelessly, coordinating between agencies to ensure the construction of the historic temple is on track

Today is the day. Its a historic day, as the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir will take place in a grand ceremony. The temple town of Ayodhya is wearing a festive look as guests  theres 8,000 of them expected from all walks of life as well as from across the globe  stream in, ahead of the consecration ceremony.

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And for one man, its a particularly significant day. For Nripendra Misra, chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, its a day when he sees his untiring efforts since February 2020 come to life.

Catch all the LIVE updates from the consecration ceremony HERE

Lets take a closer look at who is Nripendra Misra and his role in the construction of the Ram Mandir as well as the pran pratishtha ceremony.

Misras rise and rise

Before being the chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, Misra was a former IAS officer of UP cadre and served as the principal secretary in the Prime Ministers Office from 2014 to 2019.

Interestingly, the 78-year-old, who holds a masters degree in public administration from Harvards John F Kennedy, MA in political science and MSc in chemistry from and MSc in chemistry from Allahabad University, wanted to be a lecturer at Allahabad University. However, his teacher told him he had the potential to join the IAS. Taking his teachers advice forward, he cracked the UPSC exam and made it to the IAS in 1967.

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In his tenure, he has held several important posts. He also holds the honour of being the principal secretary to two powerful chief ministers  Mulayam Singh Yadav and Kalyan Singh. In fact, it is said that when Kalyan Singh took over from Mulayam in 1991, the BJP leader saw no problems in retaining Misra as principal secretary. However, many within the BJP objected, with an article in the RSS Panchjanya calling him a CIA agent.

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Misra was eventually transferred from Lucknow and posted as the Chairman of the Greater Noida Authority in November 1992, just a month before the demolition of the Babri Masjid.

In 2006, Misra was appointed as chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India. And after serving in that post for three years, he began writing opinion pieces in newspapers. An Indian Express report states that a piece in April 2014, in which he defended Modi over Opposition allegations about gaps in his election affidavit, caught the attention of the top BJP leadership.

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And as they say, the rest is history. On 27 May 2014  the same day Modi took charge as prime minister  he joined the office as principal secretary.

Over the next five years, he built a rapport with PM Modi and the two worked in tandem. When asked what it was like to work with the PM, Misra has been quoted as saying that he was hands-on. For many of his colleagues, he became almost an elder brother, ready to stand up for them before the PM, and convey the prime ministers expectations to them.

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Being entrusted with the Ram Mandir project

Six months after he stepped down as principal secretary to the PM in January 2020, Misra was named Chairman of the Nehru Memorial  now called the Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society, PMML.

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When it was learnt that Misra would have liked something more, he was appointed as the chairman of the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust (Ayodhya) construction committee.

And according to his colleagues, PM Modi couldnt have appointed a better person for the job. As a senior bureaucrat told The Indian Express, He trusts his colleagues, empowers them to be candid with their views, and is a leader who motivates. He takes decisions quickly, and is a stickler for time schedules. Most importantly, he can convey the prime ministers expectations, and say what the PM would think of a particular idea.

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When asked himself what he thinks of the responsibility entrusted to him, he had called it a divine blessing. What more could I have asked for? I am not saying I will call it a day. But what has come to me is from the Lord who alone will chart my next course, he had told Times of India.

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In fact, he says that when he was assigned the task of constructing the Ram Mandir, the PM had given him a one-line brief  build a temple for Ram that will last at least a thousand years.

And thats what he has done.

He has coordinated with different people, agencies to ensure that the mandir is built and ready for todays grand ceremony. Hes been hard at work ensuring seamless coordination between the contractor, Larsen and Toubro, the consultant, Tata Consulting Engineers, the architect, CB Sompura and various other local, state and national agencies.

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He realised that the temple is a realisation of lakhs and lakhs of devotees and in an effort to not disappoint them, hes been hard at work. He made the Circuit House in Ayodhyas Civil Lines his second home for the last few years.

But what has he felt about this assignment? Misra says that while he is a religious person, he realised this went beyond his personal sentiments. This is something of national importance, which has come out of the apex judiciary  if I can live up to it and deliver, it will be my way of paying back to this country and society. I am not accepting the assignment as a religious person who must make a temple, he told the Indian Express.

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And it seems that all his hard work will pay off today (22 January) with the consecration ceremony, which will not only see Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance, but also other VVIPs from different corners of the country and the world.

On criticism of the ceremony

And as with any other job, the construction and consecration of the temple has received criticism. But Misra has remained unfazed.

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On the issue of the Shankaracharyas giving todays event a miss, because the temple is incomplete, Misra was quoted as telling NDTV: Shankaracharyas are dharm gurus. I am no one. They are responsible for the observants of Sanatan Dharma. Having said so, I want to give a message to the nation.

What we had announced was that Ram Lalla , the child Ram, will be in bhootal (the temples ground floor). The bhootal will have the garba griha (sanctum sanctorum), five mandaps, (religious) iconography. That has been completed, Misra explained.

With inputs from agencies
Thailands Ayutthaya kingdom is believed to be named after ancient Ayodhya. While Nepals Janakpur is considered Goddess Sitas birthplace, the epic Ramayana is popular in several other Asian countries. As per legend, a princess of Ayodhya married a Korean king in 48 AD

The consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Uttar Pradeshs Ayodhya was held today (22 January), with the idol of Ram Lalla finally being unveiled. The temple town was thronged by VIPs, saints and devotees to witness the inauguration of the grand temple.

Decked with lights and flowers, Ayodhya is buzzing with energy and spiritual fervour to mark the grandiose event presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The temple is expected to be open to the general public from Tuesday (23 January).

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The opening of the Ram Mandir has put focus on the Hindu deitys life captured in Ramayana. The epic is not just popular in India and its neighbour Nepal. It has also spread to many Asian countries and even beyond the continent. Ayodhya also has ties to Korea.

Lets take a closer look.

Thailand

The Ayutthaya kingdom (1351 to 767) of Thailand is considered to be named after Ayodhya of the Ramayana. The ancient city is linked with Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic, as per the news agency ANI.

The Ramayana was brought to Southeast Asia by Buddhist missionaries.

As per a UNESCO article on Ayutthaya, When the capital of the restored kingdom was moved downstream and a new city built at Bangkok, there was a conscious attempt to recreate the urban template and architectural form of Ayutthayato emulate the perfection of the mythical city of Ayodhaya.

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The name of King Ramathibodi, who is believed to be the first monarch of the Ayutthaya kingdom, is reportedly influenced by the epic.

King Rama I, the founder of the reigning Chakri dynasty of Siam (present-day Thailand), also adopted the name Ramathibodi when he ascended the throne in 1782. Since then, all kings of Thailand have borne the name Ram. Vajiralongkorn, the current constitutional monarch, is known as Rama X.

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Korea

As per legend, South Korea has historical ties with Ayodhya, considered Lord Rams birthplace.

Queen Heo Hwang-ok of Korea is believed to be a princess of Ayodhya, who travelled to the East Asian nation in 48 AD to marry Korean king Kim Suro.

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She was born Princess Suriratna in Ayodhya to King Padmasen and Indumati, the rulers of the ancient kingdom of Kausala, a region extending from present-day UP to Odisha, reported Indian Express.

As per the website of the Indian Embassy in South Korea, her story finds mention in Samguk Yusa (Heritage History of the Three Kingdoms), a 13th-century collection of legends, folktales, and historical accounts from the three kingdoms of Korea  Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla.

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At 16 years of age, the princess is believed to have taken a long sea voyage to Korea with her brother Monk Jangyu from the ancient land of Ayuta to marry Kim Suro, the king of Geumgwan Gaya in south-eastern Korea.

King Suro had founded the ancient Karak kingdom. As per a 2018 report in the BBC, the royal couple had 10 children.

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Over six million people, or 10 percent of the South Korean population, trace their lineage to Heo Hwang-ok, belonging to clans such as Gimhae Kim, Heo and Lee, noted Indian Express.

There is a memorial for the Indian princess in Ayodhya on the west bank of the Saryu, which was inaugurated in 2001. India and South Korea had signed an agreement in 2000 to develop Ayodhya and Gimhae as sister cities.

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Nepal, Cambodia and other Asian nations

Janakpur in Nepal is considered Goddess Sitas birthplace. India and Nepal are working together on the Ramayana circuit, which was envisaged by the Indian government to cover major pilgrim sites related to the Ramayana, including Nepals Janakpur.

According to Santosh N Desai, former Assistant Professor of Asian History and Religion at St Johns University, New York, the Ramayana spread from India to other parts of Asia in the early centuries of the Christian era along three routes, by land, the northern route took the story from the Punjab and Kashmir into China, Tibet, and East Turkestan; by sea, the southern route carried the story from Gujarat and South India into Java, Sumatra, and Malaya; and again by land, the eastern route delivered the story from Bengal into Burma, Thailand, and Laos. Vietnam and Cambodia obtained their stories partly from Java and partly from India via the eastern route.

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Built in the 12th Century by King Suryavarman II, the Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia has murals depicting the Ramayana.

The Hindu epic is still an important part of many Southeast Asian countries, where it remains famous through plays, dance dramas, puppet shows, and so on. However, there are some differences in the tale of Lord Ram in these nations from the Indian version. In the countries where the Hindu epic was popularised by traders from south India, their version is more similar to the Tamil epic Kamban Ramayana and not Valmikis Ramayana, as per Indian Express.

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In Reamker, the Cambodian version of the Ramayana, a mermaid princess Suvannamaccha falls in love with Lord Hanuman. The Hikayat Seri Rama of Malaysia has a soft spot for Ravana or Maharaja Wana. The Malay versions roots can be traced to popular oral versions of the epic found in southern India.

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In Laos, Phra Ram is considered a previous incarnation of Gautama BuddhaHapmanasouane, the Lao Ravana, is considered the previous incarnation of Mara, the demon that tried to impede the Buddhas ascent to enlightenment, as per an article published by the University of Washingtons Center for Southeast Asia and its Diasporas.

In Java, the Javanese deity Dhayana and his sons are part of the story, reported Indian Express. Indonesias biggest supermarket chain is named after Ramayana. A ballet on the epic is a popular dance form in Indonesia, as well as Laos and Thailand, as per Rediff.com.

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The Ramayana has also reached China but the characters are in a Buddhist setting, with variations in time and place. The countrys Dai nationality could have been the first to incorporate Ramayana (Lang ka sip ho and Ta Lamma versions in Dai) in its folk tradition with mostly similar characters, according to The Sunday Guardian report.

Beyond Asia

The Ramayana has also travelled to Africa and the Caribbean due to girmitiya migration in the 19th century. It was during this time that waves of people were sent from British India as indentured labourers to countries like Fiji, Mauritius, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, etc.

Most of these labourers, who were from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, brought their culture and religion along with them to these nations. A big part of this culture included Tulsidass Ramcharitmanas, written in Awadhi, reported Indian Express.

Mauritius is known as the land of the Ramayana. When the girmitias arrived in the country in 1834, they carried verses of the Ramcharitmanas and the Hanuman Chalisa with them. Over the years, a typically Mauritian brand of Ramayana chanting has evolved, giving Ramayana in Mauritius a distinct tradition, over the last 180 years, according to Mauritius Times.

With inputs from agencies
The foundations of the dispute over the Ram mandir were laid in 1528 when Mir Baqi, a deputy of the Mughal emperor Babur, built the Babri Masjid over what was believed to be the ruins of a Hindu temple. Lets take a look at the long, winding road to todays consecration ceremony

The consecration of the Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Monday has been celebrated by devotees in India as well as members of the Indian diaspora across the globe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a gathering of top saints, political leaders, industrialists, film stars, poets, litterateurs and sportspersons after the consecration of an idol of Ram Lalla in the Ram temple, said 22 January, 2024, is not merely a date but the advent of a new era.

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     pic.twitter.com/KE8WMfPoyr  Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra (@ShriRamTeerth) January 20, 2024

But its been a long journey to get here.

Lets take a look at the brief history of the Ram temple:

Babri Masjid built

The foundations of the saga were laid in 1528, as per NDTV.

This occurred when Mir Baqi, a deputy of the Mughal emperor Babur, built the Babri Masjid  over what was believed to be the ruins of a Hindu temple.

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As per Indian Express, the dispute itself began in 1822.

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At this time, Hafizullah, a court official told the Faizabad court that Babar had built a mosque on the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The newspaper quoted the 2019 Supreme Court ruling on the Ayodhya suit as saying that 28 July, 1855, witnessed an encounter between Hindus and Muslims at Hanuman Garhi temple near the Babri Masjid.

The Hindus that day also took Janmasthan  where Lord Ram is believed to have been born.

Then, on 30 November 1858, one Mohammad Salim filed an FIR against the Nihang Sikhs.

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The Sikhs installed the Nishan Sahib inside the Babri Masjid and also conducted a havan inside it.

That very day, Muhammad Asghar, the official of the mosque, called for legal proceedings against someone who put up a platform in the courtyard.

Asghar demanded that the platform be removed, as per the newspaper.

As per NDTV, in 1885, Raghubar Das, a priest of the Nirmohi Akhara, then filed a lawsuit asking for a temple to be built in the outer courtyard.

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The British had, at the time, placed a railing to designate different areas of worship for the two faiths.

It is said that up to that time the Hindus and Muhammadans alike used to worship in the mosque-temple. Since British Rule, a railing has been put up to prevent the disputes, within which in the mosque the Muhammadans pray, while outside the fence the Hindus have raised a platform on which they make their offerings, the 2019 verdict states as per Indian Express.

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Ram Lalla idols appear

On the night of 22 December, 1949, the Ram Lalla idols were allegedly placed inside the Babri Masjid by Abhiram Das.

Ram devotees claimed the idols magically appeared.

Then, a flood of legal suits followed.

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On the one hand, the Nirmohi Akhara demanded the opportunity to worship the idols and on the other the Sunni Central Waqf Board sought control of the site, as per NDTV.

As per Indian Express, then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru ordered the state government to remove the idols.

But then city magistrate Guru Dutt Singh did not allow the then chief minister Govind Ballabh Pant to do so.

The then district magistrate KK Nair, blaming law and order issues, also refused to remove the idols.

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The municipal board then acquired the site and the idol remained inside.

As per NDTV, in 1986, the then Rajiv Gandhi government opened the locks of the Babri Masjid  letting Hindus worship inside.

This was a seismic event in the movement.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) then called for the construction of the Ram Mandir by 1990.

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BJP stalwart LK Advani also set off on his rath yatra, as per NDTV.

By now, the Ram Janmabhoomi movement had kicked off in earnest.

In 1992, the Babri Masjid was razed by Hindu activists. This caused riots to break out across India.

Lok Sabha passes Act, Allahabad HC hears arguments

As per The Hindu, the Lok Sabha then passed Acquisition of Certain Area in Ayodhya Act.

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This allowed the Centre to obtain 67.7 acres of land including the disputed area.

The Act stated that the acquisition was necessary to set up a Ram temple, a mosque, amenities for pilgrims, a library, museum and other suitable facilities.

The act was challenged by Dr Ismail Faruqui but a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled that the acquisition was legal. The bench in its verdict said a mosque was not an essential part of the practice of the religion of Islam and that namaz could be offered anywhere.

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In 2002, the Allahabad High Court began hearing arguments over the title of the land.

It ordered a survey by the Archaeological Survey of India  which in 2003 claimed to have found fragments of a 10th Century Hindu temple.

The Supreme Court then ordered that a status quo be maintained until the Allahabad High Court had rendered its verdict.

In 2010, the Allahabad High Court finally gave its judgment.

The 2-1 ruling by Justices SU Khan, Sudhir Agarwal and DV Sharma held that both Hindus and Muslims were joint title holders of the disputed area.

The court divided the 2.77 acre-property between the Hindu Mahasabha, the Sunni Waqf Board and the Nirmohi Akhara.

It also held that the central dome of the Babri Masjid is the exact birthplace of Lord Ram and would be thus given to the Hindus.

The Muslims were given a third of the area in the inner and outer courtyard, while the Nirmohi Akhara was given the Ram Chabutra, Bhandar and Sita Rasoi structures in the outer courtyard.

Case reaches Supreme Court

As per India TV, the battle finally reached the Supreme Court in 2011 after all three parties challenged the Allahabad High Court ruling.

The apex court then stayed the Allahabad high court order.

In 2019, the Supreme Court rendered its landmark verdict.

Led by then CJI Ranjan Gogoi, the court ruled that the It held that temple would be built on the land in Ayodhya.

The apex court also ordered the government to give Muslim parties an alternative five-acre plot.

On 5 August 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Ram Temple.

Today, the consecration ceremony was held in Ayodhya.

Modi today said said Lord Ram will no longer live in a tent but will now reside in a magnificent temple.

Today, our Ram has arrived. After a long wait for ages, our Ram has arrived,

The prime minister said he could still feel the divine vibrations he experienced during the consecration ceremony inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram temple.

Our Ram Lalla will no longer live in a tent. Our Ram Lalla will stay in a magnificent temple," Modi said. People will remember this date, this moment even after thousands of years from now, he said.

It is Rams supreme blessings that we are witnessing it," Modi said.

I seek forgiveness from Lord Ram, there would have been some shortcomings in our penance that we could not complete this work for so long. That shortcoming has been overcome. I am confident Lord Ram would forgive us, Modi concluded.

With inputs from agencies
Ron DeSantis dropped out just days before the primary in New Hampshire and endorsed Donald Trump. Experts say his supporters are far more likely to favour the former US president over the ex-US ambassador to the United Nations

Its all over for Ron DeSantis.

The governor of Florida, who vowed to never back down, has called an end to his bid for the 2024 Republican nomination for president.

DeSantis dropped out days after coming second in the Iowa caucuses.

DeSantis has spent millions of dollars and hundreds of hours campaigning and on which hed staked his entire campaign only to be crushed by former president Donald Trump  whom he has now endorsed.

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The development comes just days before the Republican primary in New Hampshire.

But what happened? And what does this mean for Haley and Trump?

Lets take a closer look:

What happened?

Early last year, DeSantis was considered a top presidential contender and a natural heir to Trump due to his combative style and deeply conservative views.

He led several head-to-head polls against Trump.

But his support had declined for several months, due to a flawed campaign strategy, his seeming lack of ease with voters on the campaign trail and Trumps so far unshakeable command of much of the partys base.

More than 70 per cent of Republicans have a favourable opinion of Trump, according to most polls.

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That forced DeSantis to try and appeal to voters who still admired Trump, as well as those who passionately disliked him.

DeSantis failed on both counts. He never successfully articulated to most Trump supporters why he was a better option, while Republicans looking to ditch the former president split their votes among multiple candidates.

While many major donors threw their support behind DeSantis early on, they began to rebel as early as the summer.

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Joe DeSimone, a DeSantis donor from Nevada, told the Financial Times the governor was a victim of circumstance.

All the legal action that was addressed at Trump seemed to really fire up his base and get them motivated to come out and vote and contribute, DeSimone said.

DeSimone has now switched support to Trump.

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Several DeSantis allies say the governor waited too long to enter the race, which left him open to blistering attacks by Trump, who had announced his campaign more than six months earlier.

When DeSantis did formally launch his White House run in May 2023, it was a glitch-filled disaster on Twitter, now known as X, an inauspicious start for a campaign predicated on the governors executive competence.

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The campaign overhired, burning through cash at a rapid rate, and then outsourced much of the traditional work of a campaign to an outside super PAC, which can accept donations of unlimited size but cannot coordinate with the campaign itself.

Despite pouring much of his campaigns time and resources into Iowa, the first state to hold a presidential nominating contest, DeSantis finished almost 30 points behind former president Donald Trump, and he barely beat former US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley for second place.

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DeSantis decision, less than a week after his deflating loss to Trump in Iowa despite an enormous investment there, caps a stunning fall from grace after DeSantis had been widely seen as Republicans most promising alternative to Trump ahead of the general election in November.

DeSantis nodded toward Trumps primary dominance  and attacked Haley  in an exit video he posted on social media.

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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

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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.

He continued: 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: a re-packaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents.

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What does this mean for Haley and Trump?

The decision leaves Trump and Haley  who served under Trump as UN ambassador  as the two major candidates in the race.

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.

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Theres two people in this race, Haley told CNN.

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Thats what we wanted all along, and were going to keep going.

Chris Ager, the state committee chair of New Hampshires Republican Party, told the BBC the race has been moving toward a one-vs-one between Trump and Haley for a while.

This makes it so, he added.

But Trump, who has maintained an iron grip on the Republican electorate despite facing four criminal prosecutions, remains the prohibitive favourite.

At a Sunday evening rally in Rochester, New Hampshire, Trump, who spent much of last year attacking DeSantis, praised the governor and said he was looking forward to working together to defeat President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee.

I just want to thank Ron and congratulate him on doing a very good job, Trump said at the outset of his remarks. He was very gracious, and he endorsed me. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron.

Trump described DeSantis as a really terrific person.

Trump accused Haley of forming an unholy alliance with liberals, never-Trumpers and RINOs, or Republicans in Name Only, to try and win the New Hampshire primary, and repeated a false claim that registered Democrats were allowed to vote in the Republican primary.

Trump holds a double-digit lead over Haley in New Hampshire, according to polls, and his campaign hopes a second consecutive win will make his eventual nomination all but inevitable.

He also has a commanding lead in South Carolina, which votes on 24 February.

A Haley loss in her home state, where she served as governor from 2011 to 2017, would likely doom her campaign.

Still, her candidacy remains a long shot.

At a campaign event in Seabrook, New Hampshire, Haley drew cheers when she announced that DeSantis had dropped out.

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.

For now, Ill leave you with this: May the best woman win, she added.

As per Al Jazeera, Haley said the US was not a country of coronations.

So far, only one state has voted. Half of its votes went to Donald Trump, and half did not  Voters deserve a say in whether we go down the road of Trump and Biden again, or we go down a new conservative road, she added.

What do experts say?

This seems to be good news for Trump.

DeSantis supporters appear more likely to switch allegiance to Trump than to the more moderate Haley.

In Iowa, APVoteCast surveys of caucusgoers suggested DeSantiss supporters were much more likely than Haleys to consider themselves conservatives who would back Trump no matter what if he wins the nomination and faces President Joe Biden in November.

If that trend holds in New Hampshire, then Trump could expect at least some boost from DeSantis dropping out, and whatever he gets could stretch out his margin and frustrate Haleys ability to claim any momentum.

Indeed, Trumps aides have said they expect DeSantis support around the country will shift heavily to Trump.

New Hampshire GOP strategist Mike Dennehy told Politico, DeSantis dropping out virtually eliminates any chance Haley has at keeping Trump under 50 percent.

Theres a chance now that Trump could get 60 percent of the vote in New Hampshire, Dennehy, who worked on John McCains 2000 and 2008 campaigns added.

The polling seems to bear this out.

The outlet quoted a University of New Hampshire/CNN poll released yesterday as showing DeSantis voters would massively favour Trump over Haley.

A huge 62 per cent of the Florida governors voters would cast ballots in favour of Trump, while just 30 per cent would do so for Haley.

A Suffolk University/Boston Globe/NBC10 Boston daily tracking poll showed a similar outcome.

Around 57 per cent of DeSantis supporters went for Trump as a second pick compared to 33 per cent for Haley, as per the report.

While DeSantis was at around six or seven per cent in New Hampshire, every vote counts on this point.

In all of our tracking polls, [Trump has> been at or above 50 [percent> and his lead has only grown since Monday, Suffolk University polling director David Paleologos told Politico.

In a two-person scenario, if he doesnt get to 50 percent he doesnt win. That doesnt seem likely at this point.

In our last track, the small subset of DeSantis voters broke to Trump 57 per cent to 33 per cent, Paleologos told Financial Times.

She will not be the nominee, key DeSantis supporter Representative Chip Roy, R-Texas, told AP. She will not be the president of the United States.

Around two-thirds of DeSantis backers in New Hampshire cite Trump as their second choice, said Andrew Smith, director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center.

Representative James Spillane, of Deerfield, said he had initially backed Trump, switched to DeSantis and will now vote for Trump.

I had a suspicion this morning, and I had talked to some friends of mine saying the way I was hearing things shake out, I thought this was going to happen, and I was right, he said. Unfortunately, DeSantis is not going to be able to make it forward. However, in the future, hopefully we can have a viable way forward in 2028.

David Kochel, a Republican strategist who has worked on five presidential campaigns, said DeSantis exit was unlikely to change the basic contours of the campaign, given that his support had cratered.

The race needs a big dynamic shift, and I dont feel that DeSantis dropping out is that big a deal as he didnt have that much going on in New Hampshire, and he didnt even have that much going on in South Carolina, he said.

Another Republican consultant, Ford OConnell, who has ties to both the Trump and DeSantis camps, said he expected most DeSantis voters to come home to Trump.

Without question, Trump is the beneficiary of DeSantis ending his campaign, he said.

With time running short, Haley has sharpened her attacks on the frontrunner in the final days before the election, blaming Trump for Republican electoral losses in 2020 and 2022 and criticising his praise for authoritarian leaders.

Trump noted Sunday that he won New Hampshires 2016 primary by about 20 points.

He did not mention that he lost the battleground state twice in general elections to Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Biden in 2020.

With inputs from agencies
PM Narendra Modi spoke about several characters from the Ramayana after the Ram mandir consecration ceremony, mentioning what we should learn from them today. Heres a look at who he referred to and what the epic says about them

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Lord Ram will no longer reside in a tent as the consecration ceremony of the grand temple in Ayodhya was done. He was addressing the attendees after the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in the temple town on Monday (22 January).

Theres so much to say, but theres a lump in my throat. After unprecedented patience, innumerable sacrifices and penance, our Lord Ram has arrived. I congratulate the country on this occasion, Modi said.

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He declared that 22 January was not a date on a calendar, but the dawn of a new era. The PM also made several references to characters from Valmikis Ramayana. Heres a look at who he mentioned and what he said about them.

Shabari

Referring to Shabari, PM Modi said, When we think of our tribal mother Shabri, an immeasurable faith awakens. Mother Shabri kept saying, Ram will come. This faith in every Indian will form the foundation of an able and grand India.

Shabari is a tribal princess in Ramayana who left her home to seek spirituality. She met sage Matang and soon became his disciple, as per an NDTV report.

Before passing away in old age, the sage told her that Lord Ram would come to meet and bless her, the report added. Shabaris yearslong wait was over when Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman visited her during their exile from Ayodhya .

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She brought fruits for Lord Ram but to ensure they were sweet, she tasted all of them. While Lakshman objected to this, Ram ate the fruits she gave him and blessed her.

Nishad Raj Guha

PM Modi also talked about the friendship between Lord Ram and Nishad Raj Guha. This feeling of friendship between every Indian will form the foundation of a grand India. This is the expansion of consciousness from dev (God) to desh (country) and from Ram to Rashtra (nation).

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Nishad Raj Guha, the king of the boatmen, became friends with Ram during his exile. When the prince of Ayodhya, along with his wife and brother, reached Nishads kingdom on the bank of Ganga, the king helped the three in crossing the river.

Some 5,000 people from the boatmen community have been calling for the construction of a temple of Nishad Raj Guha in Ayodhyas Guptar Ghat. Recently, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has proposed building the shrine on the premises of Ram Temple, reported News18.

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ALSO READ: Reels, hashtags and more: How influencers created the buzz around Ram mandir and Ayodhya

Squirrel

Prime Minister also referred to the tale of the squirrel who contributed towards the building of the bridge across the sea for Ram and his army to reach Lanka.

Those thinking, I am very ordinary must think of the contribution of the squirrel. It will remove such hesitations and teach us that every effort, big or small, has its own strength. It is everyones efforts that will form the foundation for a grand India, Modi was quoted as saying by NDTV.

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Heres how the tale goes. Lord Rama asked his army of monkeys to construct a bridge over the sea to reach Lanka. The monkeys started the work by taking heavy stones from the mountains and cutting them into shape.

One day, Ram observed a brown squirrel carrying pebbles in its mouth and dropping them into the ocean. As the rodent went to look for more pebbles, it came in the way of Lord Hanuman.

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When he asked what the squirrel was doing, the little creature replied she was helping Rama build the bridge, according to author Nityananda Charan Das book Epic Tales of Wisdom.

As the monkeys mocked the squirrel, Ram intervened and told them off. He said that while the big boulders brought by the monkeys were building the bridge, the pebbles were filling the small gaps.

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After hearing this, the monkeys felt ashamed. Always remember, however small, every task is equally important. Great work can never be completed by a few people alone. It needs the support of all, and however small, an effort should always be appreciated! Ram told them, as per Das book.

Ram then thanked the little squirrel and patted its back with his three fingers. According to the Ramayana, this is how the squirrel got its three stripes.

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Acknowledging the small animals role, the Lucknow division of Northern Railway is set to unveil a 15-foot tall Corten steel squirrel at the atrium centre space of Ayodhya Dham junction, reported Times of India (TOI).

Jatayu

Modi also mentioned the mythical bird Jatayu in his speech. Lanka king Ravan was very knowledgeable, extremely powerful. But look at Jatayus dedication. He fought Ravan. He knew he would not be able to defeat Ravan, but he challenged him. It is this zenith of a sense of duty that will form the foundation of an able and grand India. Let us pledge that we will devote every moment of our life to nation-building, he told the gathering, as per NDTV.

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The PM also unveiled a statue of Jatayu on the Ram Janmabhoomi premises on Monday.

In Ramayana, Jatayu is believed to be a demigod in the form of a vulture, born to Aruna, the charioteer of the Sun God. He was an old friend of King Dasharath, Lord Rams father, noted India Today.

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Jatayu fought the demon king Ravana when he kidnapped Sita and was taking her to his kingdom Lanka. However, Ravana used Chandrahasa to chop off one of the wings of Jatayu.

It is believed that the bird fell on a rock. When Ram found him, he was barely alive. Jatayu narrated the entire episode to him and, later, the Hindu deity gave salvation to the dying bird.

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With inputs from agencies
The exercise is aimed to acquaint both sides with each others operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under chapter VII of the United Nations Charter..

The Indian Army contingent comprising 25 personnel reached Egypt to take part in the 2nd edition of a joint exercise called Cyclone between special forces of India and Egypt. The exercise will be conducted at Anshas, Egypt from 22nd January to 1st February 2024. The first edition of the exercise was conducted last year in India.

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The exercise is aimed to acquaint both sides with each others operating procedures in the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

The Indian contingent is being represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Egyptian contingent comprising 25 personnel is being represented by the Egyptian Commando Squadron and the Egyptian Airborne Platoon, the statement said.

Exercise Cyclone is designed to develop bilateral military cooperation and strengthen the bond between two armies through the conduct of discussions and rehearsal of tactical military drills.

The exercise will involve the planning and execution of special operations in the sub-conventional domain and conducted in three phases. While the first phase will include military exhibitions and tactical interactions, the second phase will focus on training on Improvised Explosive Device (IED), counter IED and Combat First Aid. The third and final phase will encompass a Joint Tactical Exercise based on Fighting in Built-up Areas and Hostage Rescue Scenarios.

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The exercise will provide an opportunity for both contingents to strengthen their bond and share best practices. It will also act as a platform to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly nations.
The Indian Army contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by the Scorpion Brigade.

The 11th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercises Khanjar has commenced at the special forces training school in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 22nd January to 3rd February 2024. It is an annual event conducted alternatively in both countries.

The Indian Army contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by the Scorpion Brigade.

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The exercise aims to exchange experiences and best practices in counter-terrorism and special forces operations in Built-up areas and mountainous terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will emphasise developing special forces skills and advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.

The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. The exercise will also accord an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of cutting-edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and fostering bilateral relations.
Over 8,000 guests have been invited to the ceremony at the grand temple. The historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony was attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country.

Indias pride has been returned along with Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Monday.

Addressing people after the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, he said Today in Ayodhya, along with Ram Lalla, Indias pride has also returned. Todays event has become a symbol that a naya Bharat, which will provide relief to the world from tragedies, will come up, says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat after the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony.

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Bhagwat also said that the history of this era has so much power that whoever listens to the stories of Ram Lalla, all their sorrows and pains will be erased

#WATCH | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addresses people after the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya.#RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/0LCGqbyF3Z  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the aarti of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on Monday. The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the temple in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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#WATCH | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat says "Today after 500 years, Ram Lalla has returned here and due to his efforts we are seeing this golden day today, we pay our utmost respect to him. The history of this era has so much power that whoever listens to the stories of Ram Lalla, all pic.twitter.com/YkxcpvYkOo  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

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Earlier today, the Prime Minister led the rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple.PM Modi performed parikrama of the deity and did dandvat pranam. He also took blessings from sadhus.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present at the ceremony. Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showered flower petals over Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled.

Over 8,000 guests have been invited to the ceremony at the grand temple. The historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony was attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country.

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People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities also attended the ceremony. Prime Minister will interact with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir.

He will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored later in the day.The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir has been constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

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The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses.

With inputs from agencies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday participated in the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Heres a look at 16 key themes from his speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday led the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya

The prime minister walked inside the temple premises with a silver chattar (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta.

Dressed in a golden kurta teamed up with a cream dhoti and patka, he took sankalp for the pran pratishtha ceremony and later moved to the sanctum sanctorum for the rituals.

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RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present inside the sanctorum during the rituals.

Shortly after concluding the ceremony, he addressed a gathering of seers, and celebrities from different walks of life.

Here are 16 themes from his speech:

A New Era for Ram Lalla

Shortly after concluding the consecration ceremony, PM Modi on Monday said that Ram Lalla will have to no longer live in a tent and now his new home will be a magnificent temple in Ayodhya.

Our Ram Lalla will no longer live in a tent. Our Ramlala will now reside in this divine temple. I firmly believe, with immense devotion, that the experience of what has happened will be felt by devotees of Lord Ram in every corner of the country, and the world. This moment is supernatural. This time is the most sacred. This atmosphere, this environment, this energy, this moment is a blessing from Lord Shri Ram, the PM said.

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January 22, 2024 this sun has brought a remarkable aura. January 22, 2024, is not just a date on the calendar. It marks the beginning of a new era, he added.

Breaking the Chains of Slavery

He said that a nation rising by breaking the mentality of slavery, a nation drawing courage from every affliction of the past, creates a new history in this manner.

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A thousand years from today, people will talk about this date, this moment. And how great is Lord Rams grace that we are living in this moment, witnessing it happen, said the PM.

Lord Ram Will Forgive Us

Seeking forgiveness from Lord Ram, PM Modi said there must have been some shortcomings in our efforts that we couldnt accomplish this task for so many centuries.

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This time is not ordinary. These are indelible lines of memory being etched with everlasting ink on the wheel of time. Friends, we all know that where the work of Ram is done, there Pawanputra Hanuman is definitely present. Therefore, I also pay my respects to the devotee Hanuman and Hanumangarhi. I pay my respects to Mother Janaki, Lakshman Ji, Bharat-Shatrughna, and all. I also pay my respects to the holy city of Ayodhya and the sacred Saryu river. At this moment, I am feeling a divine experience that those divine souls, those divine beings who have blessed this great work are present around us at this time. I offer my grateful respects to all these divine consciousnesses.

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Today, I also seek forgiveness from Lord Shriram. There must have been some shortcomings in our efforts, our sacrifices, our penance, that we couldnt accomplish this task for so many centuries. Today, that deficiency has been fulfilled. I believe Lord Ram will surely forgive us today, said the Prime Minister.

PM Modi Expresses Gratitude to the Judiciary

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He said legal battle over the existence of Lord Ram continued for decades and expressed his gratitude to the judiciary of India for doing justice.

In Indias Constitution, in its first copy, Lord Ram is present. Even after the advent of the Constitution, legal battles over the existence of Lord Shri Ram continued for decades. I express my gratitude to the judiciary of India, which upheld the dignity of justice. The temple of Lord Ram, synonymous with justice, was also built in a judicial manner, said PM Modi.

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Har Ghar Ram Jyoti

The Prime Minister said that the entire country is celebrating Diwali today and preparations are being made to light Ramjyoti in every home.

Today, in every village, kirtan and sankirtan are being performed together. Today, festivals are being celebrated in temples, and cleanliness campaigns are being conducted. The entire country is celebrating Diwali today. This evening, preparations are being made to light Ramjyoti in every home, added the PM.

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Pilgrimage to Sacred Sites in Last 11 Days

Referring to his visit to Arichal Munai, the starting point of Ram Setu in Dhanushkodi, he said that the moment when Lord Ram set out to cross the sea was a moment that changed the course of time.

Yesterday, with the blessings of Lord Shri Ram, I was at Arichal Munai, the starting point of Ram Setu in Dhanushkodi. The moment when Lord Ram set out to cross the sea was a moment that changed the course of time. It was my humble attempt to feel the essence of that emotional moment, he said.

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There, I offered floral homage. There, a belief awakened within me that just as the course of time had changed then, similarly, the course of time will change again now and will move in an auspicious direction.

During my 11-day fast and ritual, I attempted to touch the places where Lord Rams feet had trodden. Whether it be the Panchavati Dham in Nashik, the sacred Triprayar Temple in Kerala, Lepakshi in Andhra Pradesh, Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Shri Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, or Dhanushkodi, he added.

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I am fortunate that with this same sacred sentiment, I had the opportunity to journey from the sea to Saryu, he said

I have had the privilege of listening to the Ramayana in various languages across the corners of the country, and especially over the last 11 days, added the PM.

Remembering Contribution, Sacrifices of Countless Ram Bhakts

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On the auspicious occasion, the Prime Minister also remembered countless devotees who showed the pinnacle of sacrifice and penance for Lord Ram.

Today, in this historic moment, the country is also remembering those personalities whose efforts and dedication have made this auspicious day possible. Many people have shown the pinnacle of sacrifice and penance in the work of Ram. We are all indebted to those countless devotees of Ram, those countless volunteers, and those countless saints and sages, he said.

Ram Mandir Shows Our Future Will Be More Beautiful than Our Past

PM Modi said todays occasion is not only a moment of celebration but also a moment that signifies the maturity of Indian society.

For us, this occasion is not only about victory, but also about humility. The history of the world is a witness that many nations get entangled in their own history. Whenever such countries have tried to unravel the tangled knots of their history, they have faced great difficulties in achieving success. In fact, many times the situations have become more challenging than before. However, the way our country has untangled this knot of history with seriousness and sensitivity, it indicates that our future is going to be much more beautiful than our past, said the PM.

Message to Those Who Did Fear Mongering

Hitting out at the fear mongers, the PM said that there was a time when some people said that if the Ram temple is built, it will lead to unrest.

Such people failed to understand the purity of Indias social sentiment. The construction of this temple of Ramlalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, harmony, and coordination in Indian society, he said.

We are seeing that this construction is not igniting any fire, but rather it is giving birth to energy. The Ram temple has brought inspiration for every section of society to move towards a brighter future.

Today, I call upon those people Feel it, rethink your perspective, he said.

Ram is not fire, Ram is energy. Ram is not a dispute, Ram is the solution. Ram is not only ours, Ram is for everyone. Ram is not just the present, Ram is eternal, he further added.

Ram Temple is the Temple of National Consciousness

He said Ram Temple is not just a divine temple but a symbol of Indias vision, philosophy, and direction. It is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram, he added.

Ram is the faith of India, the foundation of India. Ram is the thought of India, the law of India. Ram is the consciousness of India, the contemplation of India. Ram is the prestige of India, the might of India. Ram is the flow, Ram is the influence. Ram is the norm, and Ram is the policy. Ram is the permanence, and Ram is the continuity. Ram is vast, Ram is expansive. Ram is all-encompassing, Ram is the universe, the soul of the universe. And therefore, when Ram is established, its impact lasts not just for years or centuries. Its impact is for thousands of years, said PM Modi.

Ram Lalla Embodies the Idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

He said the establishment of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya is also an embodiment of the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Today, as the whole world is connected with the life-infusing ceremony of the Ram temple, we are witnessing the omnipresence of Ram. The celebration in India is echoed in many countries. Todays celebration in Ayodhya has also become a festival of those global traditions of the Ramayana. This establishment of Ram Lalla is also an embodiment of the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, said the PM.

Today in Ayodhya, not just the idol of Shri Ram has been infused with life. It is also the life-infusion of unbreakable faith in Indian culture as represented by Shri Ram. It is the life-infusion of human values and supreme ideals. The entire world needs these values and ideals today. We have been repeating the resolution of Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah for centuries. Today, this resolution has taken a concrete shape in the form of the Ram temple, he added.

The Impact of Shri Rams Pran Pratishtha

He said when Lord Ram came in Treta Yuga, Ram Rajya was established for thousands of years.

When Shri Rams kingdom is established , its impact lasts not just for years or centuries. Its impact is for thousands of years. Ram was established in his kingdom for ten thousand years. That means Ram Rajya was established for thousands of years. When Ram came in Treta Yuga, Ram Rajya was established for thousands of years. For thousands of years, Ram guided the world, said the PM.

The generations a thousand years from now will remember our nation-building efforts of today. Therefore, I say  Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai. We have to lay the foundation for India of the next thousand years, starting from this sacred time, PM Modi added.

Step Towards Nation Building

Moving beyond the construction of the temple, now all of us citizens, from this moment, pledge to build a capable, magnificent, and divine India. The thoughts of Ram should be in Manas as well as in the public psyche - this is the step towards nation-building, said PM Modi.

A Call to the Youth of India

I tell the youth of my country. You have the inspiration of thousands of years of tradition in front of you. You represent the generation of India that is hoisting the flag on the moon, that is successfully conducting Mission Aditya by traveling 15 lakh kilometers to the Sun, that is waving the flag of Tejas in the sky and Vikrant in the sea. You have to write the new dawn of India while being proud of your heritage, said the PM.

Rise of Viksit Bharat

He said grand Ram temple will be a witness to the rise of a magnificent India, to the development of India!

This temple teaches us that if the goal is proven true, if the goal is born out of collective and organized strength, then achieving that goal is not impossible, said PM Modi.

This is Indias Time

This is Indias time, and India is now moving forward. We have reached here after centuries of waiting. We all have been waiting for this era, this period of time. Now, we will not stop. We will reach the heights of development, said the PM.

With inputs from agencies
Reliance Jio has set up additional towers across the city for enhanced and seamless network. Multiple Cells on Wheels (CoWs) have also been placed across key locations for ubiquitous connectivity

On Ayodhyas Ram Temple consecration ceremony on Monday, 22 January, special puja will be held at various temples at Reliance premises across the country. Also, Reliance Jio and Reliance Retail have activated several special services to the benefit of devotees, pilgrims of Lord Ram.

All the members of the Ambani family will be personally present at Ayodhya to witness once in an era Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Ram Temple.

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It is worth mentioning that Reliance Industries is one of the first private organisations in India to declare a holiday on 22 January to enable the lakhs of Reliance colleagues and families to celebrate and join the devotional Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shir Ram Lala.

Special Puja in temples at Reliance premises

Special puja will be performed at various temples in Reliance facilities in Mumbai, Jamnagar, Dahej, Nagothane, Hazira, Silvassa, Halol, Hoshiarpur, Nagpur, Shahdol, Kakinada and various other locations on the day of consecration ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

Reliance Jio special services for Lord Ram devotees

Jio will connect one and all during the important event. Jios True4G and Standalone 5G networks have been upgraded in Ayodhya.

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Reliance Jio has set up additional towers across the city for enhanced and seamless network. Multiple Cells on Wheels (CoWs) have also been placed across key locations for ubiquitous connectivity.

Charging stations have been set up across key paths to help visitors charge their devices constantly. Some of these charging stations will be permanent installations in Ayodhya.

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Also, May I Help You desks have been set up at important locations. Water and refreshments will be provided by consumer products division to the people manning these desks. Also, these desks will have Jio Wi-fi connectivity.

Jio TV & Jio News services for devotees of Lord Ram

Jio in collaboration with Doordarshan will bring the exclusive live telecast of the historic Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony to hundreds of millions of viewers across the nation. Through this partnership, Jio will provide viewers with Live feed of the ceremony, real-time updates via different news channels, detailed ceremony insights, expert comments, and in-depth analysis.

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This collaboration ensures that Jio customers have front-row seats to witness this historic event from the comfort of their homes, Reliance said.

Jio also aims to keep its subscribers abreast of every significant aspect, all the latest developments by creating an inclusive and engaged viewing experience surrounding the Ram Mandir Pran Pratisthan ceremony.

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JioTV will provide customers with comprehensive details about the ceremony, including rituals, traditions, and cultural significance. This exclusive content will deepen the audiences understanding and appreciation of this auspicious occasion.

Also, JioTV and JioNews will feature expert comments and analysis, offering viewers unique insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratisthan. This added layer of information will enrich the overall viewing experience.

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Reliance Retail services for Lord Ram devotees

- Independence Brand to serve visitors in Ayodhya: - Offering water to visitors, pilgrims, and commuters across the city through specially set up kiosks at important locations.

 Campa activations

- To bring to consumer the great Indian taste during the mega event. - Branding of Campa and activations set to delight consumers.

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 Murals on the main path

- Consumer products division will beautify a section of the main path leading to the Ram Mandir with thematic murals from the Ramayana. (awaiting more information and visuals on these)

 Other activities:

- Distribution of diyas to all visitors to the Smart Bazaar and Smart Point stores in Ayodhya. - Seva for pilgrims / devotees by distributing tea at kiosks set up outside the stores in Ayodhya.

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Disclaimer: Firstpost is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.
There is no exceptionalism in more than a billion Hindus asking for a Hindu rashtra in the land where the ancient faith was born and still breathes

Hindu spiritual assertiveness is a strange and beautiful thing.

It does not convert one by the sword. It does not scream from loudspeakers, Raliv, chaliv, ya galiv (convert, leave, or die). It does not fire on defenceless devotees or set them on fire in a train. It does not let water from its feet smear someone elses objects of worship. It simply overwhelms the world with songs, dance, chants, mantras, smiles, colours, and an explosion of celebration.

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The pran pratistha ceremony on Shri Ram in his birthplace Ayodhya, 496 years after a commander of the marauding Islamic invader Babar ordered the destruction of the temple and building of the Babri masjid on its remains, brings history a full circle. It has never been so awake or unapologetic about its dharma perhaps in the last thousand years of relentless invasions and colonialism.

Many argue that a Hindu rashtra is already in motion in Bharat that is India. Bharat is Hindu is spirit. And that is not a bad thing. People of other religions can still coexist with all basic rights, cultural diversity, and dignity.

There are more than 125 Christian-majority nations, of which about 20 are declared Christian states like the UK or Denmark. Many more, while declaring secularism as state policy, run by Christian ideals. The American President, for instance, takes the oath or affirmation of office by raising his right hand, with the left hand on the Bible, saying the words: So help me God.

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More than 50 Muslim-majority nations run on Islamic ideals, often Sharia laws. Two Muslim rashtras were, in fact, torn out of India.

Jews have a home in Israel. Buddhism is the state religion of Myanmar, Cambodia, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.

There is no exceptionalism in more than a billion Hindus asking for a Hindu rashtra in the land where the ancient faith was born and still breathes. Trying to shame Hindus or Indic religions for wanting a Hindu rashtra is hypocrisy.

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But to attain the ideals of a Hindu rashtra and not have it merely as tokenism, a few things need to change. Most of these changes need to be constitutional in order to back up the cultural revival and consolidation which we are witnessing.

First, one needs to do away with the concept of minority, especially in the context of religious minorities.

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The Constitution of India uses the word minorities in its plural form in Articles 29 to 30 and 350(a) to 350(b). But does not define it anywhere. Muslims and Christians as religious minorities is just an interpretation.

How can 200 million people, with a Umma of 2 billion, claim minority benefits?

The Parliament needs to scrap the term minority. After assessing numbers and vulnerabilities, it should clearly define special categories which need the States help. It also needs to take off the creamy layer in cases of affirmative action and reservation so that only the needy avail these.

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Second, declare Bharat as the natural home for people of Indic religions  Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jain and the indigenous people. Just like Israel is the natural home for Jews across the world. Any Hindu suffering persecution anywhere in the world should get shelter in India without having to wait endlessly.

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Third, India needs to end mass conversions from the Indic faiths legally. Only individual cases, after proper scrutiny, could be allowed. Reconversions or ghar wapsi, however, should be allowed because of the wanton demographic shifts and dispossession which have historically taken place.

Amend Article 25 which deals with religious freedom. In its current form, it skews the playing field in favour of Abrahamic religions which aggressively convert and disadvantages Indic faiths which so far did not have a well-developed conversion or reconversion mechanism.

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Fourth, scrap the Waqf Act, 1995. It is a singularly sinister piece of legislation which allows the Waqf Board to arbitrarily grab land from individuals and organisations without much of a redressal. It has the potential to create Gazas within India in the future.

Fifth, the Places of Worship Act, 1991, must go. It prohibits Hindus from claiming their shrines which have been robbed before 1947, forcing instead a political status quo. It is a badly thought-out law which is unlikely to stand scrutiny.

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Sixth, temples need to be freed from state control and minority educational institutions must be brought under the Right to Education. Both are highly discriminatory against Hindus.

One facilitates the robbery of temple funds for non-community activities and lining the pockets of corrupt politicians and bureaucrats. The other cripples non-minority educational institutions with quotas for the economically weak but spares minority ones from accountability.

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Seventh and last, bring a fool-proof nationwide NRC and a strict, universally executed population law.

The NRC should be able to bust documents procured through bribing, ascertain nationality through generational verification, and promptly disenfranchise and deport illegals.

The population law should punish the first instance of breach by taking away government benefits and disenfranchising in the next instance.

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Not only has Bharat been living under a colonial cloud, many of its laws are weaponised against the civilisation. That must change. That is the logical next step of a Ram Rajya.

The author is contributing editor, Firstpost. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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As I sit down to write this piece with just hours to go for the Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya Dham, my residential complex, much like many across the length and breadth of this nation, is in a celebratory mood. I have been listening to loudspeakers playing Ram aayenge, aayenge, Ram aayenge meri jhopadi main Ram aayenge and other Ram bhajans since morning. Plans have been made for Sundarkand path, Ramcharitmanas recitation and other festivities throughout the day among residents to mark the return of Prabhu Shri Ram after 500 years of exile.

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Friends and acquaintances in different social media groups whom I have never found to be fond of overt expression of faith in public life are excitedly exchanging songs, images and other content on Ram Lalla. Not just Ram bhakts but Hindus from every walk of life, even those who consider themselves nominally Hindu cant seem to wait for the sun to rise on Monday.

Their disposition is reflected in the mood of the nation, among the multitudes of humanity headed for Ayodhya, in the impromptu bhajans that were heard onboard Ayodhya-bound flights as strangers greeted each other. Not to speak of the holy city that has been gearing up to greet their Ram Lalla with a welcome fit for the emperor of emperors. https://x.com/swati_gs/status/1748994143731519685?s=20

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Its almost time. A five-century wait has come to an end. When we are in the moment, witnessing something incredible such as an event that comes once in a century or rarer still, the significance tends to slip us by. Not this time. Hindus are instinctively conscious of the enormity of the occasion.

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The weight of history, the culmination of an atavistic revival, and a sense that we are the legatees of an ancient, indigenous civilisation that has survived numerous violent conquests, colonization, genocide, destruction and architectural overwriting of countless places of worship, articles and symbols of faith, and that it is now upon us to build a uniquely pagan yet modern civilisational state, is not lost on any of the Hindus who have accumulated enough karma to be a witness to the events on Monday.

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Seen from this prism, the glorious Ram Mandir at Ayodhya isnt just a temple, but a symbol of reclamation that speaks of resilience, of the rebound of a wounded civilization, of a people that was dispossessed but never gave up hope, faith in the divine or sanatan dharma.

The bhavya Ram Mandir at Prabhu Shri Rams birthplace in Ayodhya is also the tale of endurance, survival, restoration of Hindu pride and the decentralization of history. It is a necessary pushback against the damaging narrative that mitigation of historical grievances is majoritarian supremacy.

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The desecration, flattening and conversion of places after places of worship and sites sacred to Hinduism such as the birthplace of Prabhu Shri Ram or Sri Krishna cannot remain normalised at the cost of Hindus swallowing their sense of injury, pride, and identity.

The intention behind the architectural overwriting of Ram Janmabhoomi and the erection of mosques over sites most sacred to Hinduism is eternal subjugation. It is an imperial statement. Asking Hindus to normalise that subjugation is to force them to accept intergenerational subordination and humiliation.

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It is the cruellest of narratives propagated by the political elite of Independent India, backed by scholars, academicians and deracinated secularists that Hindus must be subjected to eternal cultural subjugation even after transfer of political power. This was no self-rule. This was colonialism by other means.

Therefore, 22 January, 2024, is the true discovery of India. It is not a new idea of India, however, that Bharat is incorporating. We are not stepping out from old to the new. We are reconnecting with our sanatan past. The soul that was long suppressed is finding a collective expression through Shri Ram. The colonial pall of gloom is fading into a glorious dawn.

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As the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, wrote in a letter to the prime minister on Sunday, The nationwide celebratory atmosphere around the inauguration of the grand temple for Prabhu Shri Ram in Ayodhya Dham is in uninhibited expression of the eternal soul of India.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Amid massive layoffs and other cost cutting measures at Google, two of the lead scientists at DeepMind, Alphabets AI division are planning to leave the company and start their own AI venture, and have even raised significant capital for the venture

In a noteworthy development, two scientists working on major projects at Google DeepMind, the artificial intelligence division of Alphabet, are reportedly in discussions with investors to setup a new AI startup in Paris, as reported by Bloomberg.

Sources familiar with the matter told Bloombrg that Laurent Sifre and Karl Tuyls, both scientists at DeepMind, have engaged in discussions with potential investors to secure funding that could surpass EUR 200 million, a substantial amount even in the thriving field of AI.

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While the venture is currently known as Holistic, the scientists have not officially commented on the matter despite multiple requests. A DeepMind representative has declined to provide any insights into the potential startup plans.

Notably, Sifre and Tuyls, who are regarded as leaders in their field, have reportedly given notice to leave DeepMind.

Laurent Sifre gained recognition as a co-author of the groundbreaking 2016 DeepMind research on Go, where a computer system successfully defeated masters of the ancient board game, sparking widespread interest in AI. On the other hand, Karl Tuyls has focused on game theory and multi-agent reinforcement learning within the realm of AI, the Bloomberg report said.

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The discussions surrounding the new venture highlight a growing trend of strong investor interest in AI technology, especially in France.

The country has witnessed significant investments from venture capitalists and business leaders, particularly in startups emerging from Parisian universities and AI hubs associated with Silicon Valley companies.

This potential AI startup in Paris follows the formation of Mistral AI, an OpenAI rival, in early 2023. Mistral AI, led by a former DeepMind executive, secured substantial funding rounds and achieved a valuation of around $2 billion by the end of the year.

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Additionally, Kyutai, a nonprofit AI research lab, was established in November with an initial funding of EUR 300 million.

It is crucial to note that the discussed French startup, currently named Holistic, is distinct from Holistic AI, an enterprise software business based in London. The sizable financing round being considered further underscores the robust investor interest in advancing AI technology.

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(With inputs from agencies)
Major European carmakers and their suppliers are struggling as Chinese EV makers like BYD are gaining ground and are on the rise in the continent. Suppliers to carmakers in particular are in a tough spot as Asian suppliers are enjoying higher margins, and more volume

Chinas BYD, surpassing Tesla in global electric vehicle (EV) sales, is causing a ripple effect in the automotive industry, leaving German auto suppliers uneasy.

Several auto parts supplying companies, like Schaeffler and Continental, which have long thrived alongside German automakers like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, are now finding themselves challenged by the rise of Chinese EV manufacturers.

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As BYD and other Chinese EV makers expand their global presence, German suppliers face increased competition in a sector they once comfortably dominated.

The transition to electric vehicles has disrupted the traditional advantages these German suppliers enjoyed for decades. Newer suppliers in Asia, focusing on batteries, software, and semiconductors, now enjoy higher margins, and more importantly, more volume.

German suppliers are grappling with the need to invest in EV technology while maintaining their market position in traditional cars.

To address these challenges, Schaeffler took the unconventional step of bidding to acquire Vitesco Technologies in October. Vitesco Technologies stood out among German suppliers for its early commitment to EVs, making it an attractive takeover target today.

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Chinas rising automakers primarily rely on Chinese suppliers, posing a dilemma for German suppliers, which have a significant presence in China but mainly serve the major German automakers.

Elon Musks recent praise for Chinese automakers and his prediction of their dominance in the global automotive industry signal a shift in the landscape.

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A report by Allianz Trade highlighted Chinas EV makers as a significant threat to European carmakers, particularly in Germany, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The report called for higher tariffs on Chinese EVs, estimating potential losses of 7 billion euros per year for European carmakers by 2030.

As the European Union investigates whether Chinese EV makers benefit from unfair advantages due to government subsidies, German auto suppliers face an evolving industry. The expansion of Chinese EV makers intensifies competition in auto parts, prompting German suppliers to adapt to the changing dynamics.

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ZF management board member Stephan von Schuckmann emphasizes the need to take the competition from China seriously and adapt to survive, acknowledging the likely impact on Europes carmakers and their suppliers.
Sam Altman is planning to set up a network of semicon fabrication plants across the world, fearing that AI studios are set to face a massive shortage. To that effect, he is meeting with potential investors, which includes G42 from Abu Dhabi, SoftBank Group and possibly Microsoft

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, is reportedly in discussions with major global investors to raise funds for a venture focused on establishing a network of semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs), according to sources familiar with the matter.

The ambitious project aims to address concerns about the growing demand for chips, particularly in the context of the increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

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Altman has engaged in talks with potential investors, including G42 from Abu Dhabi and SoftBank Group, to raise substantial funds for the fabrication plants.

The project, still in its early stages, envisions collaboration with top chip manufacturers, and the network of fabs would have a global footprint. Altmans push for fundraising underscores his apprehension that the current chip production forecasts may fall short of the anticipated demand, especially as AI continues to gain widespread adoption.

Unlike the approach adopted by many AI industry peers, such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, which is OpenAIs largest investor, which designs custom silicon and outsources manufacturing, Altmans vision involves building and maintaining semiconductor fabs.

Constructing a single state-of-the-art fabrication plant can require tens of billions of dollars, and Altman is reportedly seeking to establish a network of such facilities over the coming years.

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The talks with potential investors, including G42, had initially focused on raising $8 billion to $10 billion. Altman emphasizes the urgency of taking action now to ensure an adequate chip supply by the end of the decade.

The demand for computing power and processors has surged due to the growing interest in AI applications since OpenAI released ChatGPT more than a year ago.

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Major players in the chip fabrication market, including Intel Corp, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company or TSMC, and Samsung Electronics, are seen as potential partners for OpenAI.

Altman had been actively involved in the chips project before his temporary removal as OpenAI CEO in November, and upon his return, he recommenced efforts to secure funding. Microsoft has also reportedly expressed interest in Altmans semiconductor manufacturing plan.

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While the talks are ongoing and a full list of partners and funders is yet to be established, Altmans initiative represents a departure from the common approach within the AI industry and signals a strategic move to address the increasing chip demand.

(With inputs from agencies)
To tackle the increasing incidents of spies from other countries honey-potting officers and engineers of the Indian Armed forces and DRDO, the Indian Army has developed AI-based WhatsApp Chatbots. These AI bots will be used to assess soldiers susceptibility to such traps

The Indian Army has developed an AI-based chatbot to address the growing threat of online honey-trapping, a tactic often employed in international espionage. Inspired by instances where Indian military personnel fell victim to online deception by foreign intelligence operatives, the chatbot is designed to assess soldiers susceptibility to such traps.

Honey-trapping has emerged as a significant concern in the digital realm, with instances of online targeting involving Pakistani intelligence operatives and Indian military personnel, as well as defense executives.

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In 2020, an Indian Army soldier named Shantimay Rana was apprehended on suspicion of divulging military information to Pakistan. Allegedly, he fell victim to a honey-trap orchestrated by a Pakistani woman, leading to the leakage of details related to the movements and manoeuvres of his military unit.

Similarly, a 27-year-old BrahMos Aerospace Engineer named Nishant Agarwal was arrested in a joint operation by Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra.

He was accused of providing technical information to a Pakistani operative and was in communication with suspected Pakistani intelligence operatives using aliases such as Neha Sharma and Pooja Ranjan. Law enforcement revealed that despite the sensitive nature of his position, Agarwal had made himself vulnerable on the internet.

In 2023, Maharashtras Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) detained scientist Pradeep Kurulkar, who served as the head of the Defense Research and Development Organisations (DRDO) Research and Development Establishment Engineers Laboratory.

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Kurulkar allegedly shared sensitive defense project information with an individual claiming to be Zara Dasgupta, an alleged Pakistani Intelligence Agent, as per the ATS. The DRDO scientist maintained contact with the supposed Pakistani agent through WhatsApp and video calls, even offering to disclose a highly classified report on the BrahMos missile project.

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The newly developed AI chatbot, developed by the Territorial Army, operates on WhatsApp and engages in simulated conversations with soldiers, mimicking various scenarios. The objective is to identify individuals who may be vulnerable to deceptive tactics, enabling commanding officers to sensitize them to the risks of cyber threats.

The chatbot continuously learns from interactions, allowing for the addition of new scenarios to enhance training effectiveness. The deployment of this chatbot aligns with the Indian Armys broader efforts to strengthen cybersecurity and leverage technology for defense preparedness.

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In addition to countering online threats, the Indian Army is introducing another AI chatbot called SAMBANDH, to connect veterans and Veer Naris or war widows associated with the Indian Army.

SAMBANDH, a bilingual messaging bot based on WhatsApp, aims to provide a simple platform for one-on-one communication, addressing queries, and grievances, and disseminating relevant information.

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These initiatives highlight the militarys commitment to enhancing awareness and resilience against evolving cyber threats while leveraging innovative solutions to foster communication and support among its community members. The adoption of AI chatbots underscores the ongoing efforts to stay ahead of technological challenges in the realm of defense and security.
European Space Agencys Mars Express Orbiter has identified massive ice and ice water deposits beneath the surface of Mars. The Mars Express orbiter was also the first to confirmed the presence of ice on Mars in 2004

Scientists operating Europes Mars Express Orbiter have identified extensive ice water deposits hidden beneath the surface of Mars. The findings, based on data from the orbiter, indicate that these deposits could be as thick as 3.7 kilometres, raising the possibility that Mars, in its past, supported conditions suitable for life.

The estimated volume of these deposits is staggering, with the potential to fill Earths Red Sea upon melting or blanket the entire Martian surface in a two-meter-deep layer of water.

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According to experts, this evidence suggests that Mars exhibited a vastly different environment in the past, featuring glaciers, lakes, and river channels.

Colin Wilson, a project scientist at the European Space Agency (ESA), explained, Weve seen evidence of glaciers, extinct glaciers which are no longer there, but also some glaciers covered with dust.

Most of the water ice weve seen on Mars today is at higher latitudes, where the temperatures are colder and so the ice can be stable.

The revelation challenges previous assumptions, as the ice water deposits were found at Mars equator rather than its poles. Wilson noted, We dont expect to see a polar ice cap at the equator. Its as ludicrous on Mars as it would be on Earth, but thats what the data are telling us, saying it does look like that.

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The unexpected location of the ice-water deposits has sparked excitement among scientists, particularly in the context of potential future human exploration missions to Mars. Unlike polar regions, the equatorial location could facilitate landing for exploration missions due to favourable orbital mechanics and increased power availability.

Jim Green, NASAs Director of Planetary Science, expressed the significance of the discovery, stating, Today, were revolutionizing our understanding of this planet. Our rovers are finding that theres a lot more humidity in the air than we ever imagined.

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The Mars Express orbiter, which initially confirmed the presence of ice on Mars in 2004, discovered these deposits in 2007. However, the composition remained unclear until now, with the latest data suggesting that the deposits consist of layers of dust and ice.

Despite the potential benefits for future exploration missions, Wilson cautioned that the layers of dust and ice are topped with a protective layer several hundred meters thick, making direct access challenging. Unfortunately, this probably wont be the answer to our human exploration needs, he added.

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The Mars Express probe, launched in June 2003, recently marked two decades of studying the Red Planet, providing valuable insights into Mars geological history and potential for sustaining life in the distant past.
A superPAC that is connected to Sam Altman and several tech honchos in the US named We Deserve Better, has unveiled Dean.Bot, an AI chatbot stand-in for Minnesota congressman Dean Phillips, who is running a campaign to challenge President Biden in the Democratic primary

A super PAC with close ties to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has introduced an AI chatbot as part of an unconventional strategy to thwart President Joe Bidens potential re-election, according to a report by The Washington Post.

The group, named We Deserve Better, unveiled the Dean.Bot, an AI stand-in for Minnesota congressman Dean Phillips, who is running a campaign to challenge Biden in the Democratic primary.

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Altman and other Silicon Valley elites, concerned about Bidens declining poll numbers, have reportedly thrown support behind Phillips, leading to the formation of the super PAC in December.

Notably, the launch of the AI-powered chatbot coincided with Biden signing an executive order aimed at regulating AI technology.

Despite past statements supporting regulation and safeguards on AI, Altmans stance has shifted when faced with actual regulatory proposals. OpenAI has lobbied against certain AI regulations and even threatened to cease operations in Europe if specific regulations were enacted.

The AI chatbot, initially powered by OpenAIs ChatGPT but now using open-source models, responds to inquiries about campaign controversies, including a recent website header change related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The chatbot attributes website modifications to its digital nature and emphasizes its commitment to DEI principles.

The use of AI chatbots in political campaigns raises concerns about potential misuse and manipulation.

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The Dean.Bot, labelled as an AI chatbot with disclaimers, navigates questions similar to a seasoned politician, deflecting issues and emphasising a commitment to certain principles.

While the current impact of AI chatbots on political campaigns is limited, there are concerns about the potential for bad actors to use sophisticated chatbots to spread misinformation or deceive voters.

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The rise of AI in politics poses challenges related to trust and authenticity, raising questions about the future of political communication in the era of AI technology.
The prescription, issued last weekend in Melbourne due to restrictive rules in New South Wales, was for a female patient enduring chronic and treatment-resistant PTSD

In a historic development, Australian psychiatrist Dr. Ted Cassidy, co-founder of Monarch Mental Health Group (MMHG), made history by writing worlds first prescription for the party drug MDMA to aid a patient grappling with severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This significant move follows the authorisation of MDMA and magic mushrooms for prescription in clinical trials since July 1 of the previous year.

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The prescription, issued last weekend in Melbourne due to restrictive rules in New South Wales, was for a female patient enduring chronic and treatment-resistant PTSD.

Dr. Cassidy asserts that a single day of MDMA-assisted therapy achieved more than conventional treatments accomplish in a year.

The Monarch Mental Health Group, building on a decade of outpatient mental health treatment experience, has been developing this groundbreaking therapy over the past year.

Dr. Cassidy, shared on LinkedIn that this marks the first time any doctor globally has written a regular prescription for a psychedelic medicine.

Despite the promising outcomes observed in clinical trials, the team faced hurdles due to regulatory constraints in New South Wales. Dr. Cassidy is now urging Premier Chris Minns to reform regulations, eliminating the need for patients to travel interstate for this innovative treatment.

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This achievement represents the initiation of Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT) outside of research and compassionate use protocols.

The treatment method, previously confined to research and compassionate cases, is a potential breakthrough for chronic PTSD sufferers. A 2021 research paper published in Nature Medicine reported extraordinary effects of MDMA-assisted therapy on patients with chronic PTSD, emphasizing its safety and tolerability.

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MDMA-assisted therapy provides a unique approach to treating PTSD, allowing therapists to discuss traumatic events with patients under the influence of MDMA. The drugs impact, releasing feel-good hormones, aims to create a conducive environment for patients to open up about their triggers.

Dr. Cassidy extended gratitude to MMHG staff, including clinical psychologist Monica Schweickle, for their support in advancing the treatment past trial stages. As the treatment gains traction, Dr. Cassidy urges the NSW government to reconsider policies, facilitating easier access for patients within the state.

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He calls upon Premier Chris Minns and Health Minister Ryan Park to address the peculiar requirement of conducting the treatment in a hospital, unlike elsewhere globally, advocating for improved accessibility and a more streamlined approach to patient care in New South Wales.
The announcement from the foreign ministry was made in the midst of rumors that Foreign Minister Sun Weidong was on a mediation mission in Pakistan. China last Thursday pledged to help reduce tensions between Tehran and Islamabad

China announced on Monday that it is keeping close lines of communication open with Iran and Pakistan in an effort to resolve their differences following last weeks airstrikes by both countries.

The announcement from the foreign ministry was made in the midst of rumors that Foreign Minister Sun Weidong was on a mediation mission in Pakistan.

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China last Thursday pledged to help reduce tensions between Tehran and Islamabad following Pakistans precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts in Irans Siestan-Balochistan province, which resulted in the deaths of nine people in the early hours of Thursday.

The attack was seen as retaliation to Iranian missile and drone attacks on Tuesday last which targeted two bases of the Sunni Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistans unruly Balochistan province.

The attacks have put China in a piquant situation as Pakistan is an all-weather ally, while Iran is warming up to Beijing in recent years enabling China to expand its influence in the West Asia region. China also imports a considerable amount of oil from Iran.

China maintains close communication with Iran and Pakistan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a media briefing here on Monday when asked by a Pakistani journalist about Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxus phone call with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani on Sunday and the current visit of another Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to Pakistan.

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Sun was a former Ambassador to Pakistan and India.

Wang said Iran and Pakistan are friendly neighbours, and both are good friends of China.

China is committed to upholding regional and international peace and stability, and supports Iran and Pakistan in continuing to bridge differences through dialogue and consultation, Wang said.

The spokesperson said China would like to continue to play a positive and constructive role in improving the relations between Iran and Pakistan based on the needs of the two countries.

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(with inputs from PTI)
This announcement closely follows news of health concerns within the royal family. The King is scheduled for hospital treatment next week for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, Princess of Wales, recently underwent abdominal surgery

Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, 64, has received a diagnosis of malignant melanoma, a type of skin cancer, mere months after successfully undergoing treatment for early-stage breast cancer.

This revelation follows the removal of several moles, one of which was identified as cancerous during the ongoing reconstructive surgery post-mastectomy.

Despite the distressing news, the Duchess remains in good spirits, according to her spokesperson. Further investigations are scheduled to ensure the cancer is in its early stages, emphasising the importance of vigilance regarding the size, shape, color, and texture of moles, potential indicators of melanoma.

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The Duchess expressed gratitude towards the medical team, believed to be from King Edward VII Hospital in London, who have been supporting her through this challenging process. This recurrence underscores the significance of regular monitoring for any changes in moles and serves as a reminder of the vigilance required in skin health.

Last year, the Duchess underwent an eight-hour single mastectomy and reconstruction after the discovery of early-stage breast cancer during a routine mammogram. In a December TV interview, she expressed pride in her mastectomy, describing it as a badge of office and recounted the momentous decision to proceed with the surgery.

This announcement closely follows news of health concerns within the royal family. The King is scheduled for hospital treatment next week for an enlarged prostate, while Kate, Princess of Wales, recently underwent abdominal surgery, planning to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks.

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Melanoma, primarily caused by ultraviolet light exposure from the sun and sunbeds, can spread to other parts of the body. Risk factors include age, family history of skin cancer, pale skin, and numerous moles. Changes in the appearance of moles, itching, pain, inflammation, or the emergence of new moles are warning signs, prompting the NHS recommendation to promptly consult a GP.

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The Duchess of Yorks dual health challenges emphasize the unpredictable nature of cancer and the importance of regular medical check-ups to detect and address potential issues early on.
Police posted on social media, saying, We neutralised alleged terrorists who were trying to take over the facilities of a hospital in Yaguachi, Guayas. It further stated that those in custody were reportedly attempting to save a fellow

Authorities in violence-struck Ecuador detained 68 individuals Sunday for their attempt to seize control of a hospital in the southwest of the nation during a war between drug cartels and law enforcement.

At an emergency meeting held as the region watches bloodshed spiral in once-peaceful Ecuador, Quito agreed to launch a new security network with neighboring Andean nations Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia. This agreement coincided with the arrests.

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Police posted on social media, saying, We neutralised alleged terrorists who were trying to take over the facilities of a hospital in Yaguachi, Guayas.

It further stated that those in custody were reportedly attempting to save a fellow who had been admitted to the hospital just hours before due to injuries.

Firearms and drugs were seized.

Police said they also raided a rehabilitation center that housed a gang command center and brothel, and where several alleged gang members were hiding.

Ecuadoran authorities have recently closed hundreds of such centers, essentially gang-run clandestine hospitals that officials say do not have proper facilities for patient care.

Once considered a bastion of peace in Latin America, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of expansion by transnational cartels that use its ports to ship drugs to the United States and Europe.

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After a recent spate of violence sparked by the prison escape of Adolfo Macias, a drug kingpin known as Fito, President Daniel Noboa imposed a state of emergency and declared the country in a war against gangs.

Drug cartels reacted swiftly, threatening to execute civilians and security forces and taking hostage dozens of police and prison officials, since released.

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There are some 20 criminal groups in the country of 17 million people, with membership thought to exceed 20,000.

- New security network launched -

The violence prompted ministers of Andean countries to create a new Andean security network against organized crime, according to a signed official declaration at an emergency meeting in Lima on Sunday.

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The network will guarantee a 24/7 service to provide and receive information, and/or request information from other countries on the activity of criminal groups that have, or may have, transnational operations, said the declaration from the Andean Community, comprised of members Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Bolivia.

Ecuadoran Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld hailed the agreement as a new chapter.

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Fear paralyzes countries, she stressed. We have seen that fear has paralyzed Ecuador, paralyzed investment, increased unemployment and migration.

Peru and Colombia had already tightened border controls, fearing an influx of criminals fleeing the crackdown in Ecuador.

The United States also announced Sunday that a delegation would visit Ecuador to consider options to accelerate bilateral security cooperation and discuss collaborative approaches to confront the threats posed by transnational criminal organizations.

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Highlighting the extent of the drug trade in the region, authorities in both Colombia and Ecuador announced over the weekend that they had intercepted two semi-submersible vessels loaded with tons of drugs in their respective Pacific waters.

Three people on each vessel were arrested.

(with inputs from AFP)
Jaishankar arrived in the Nigerian capital Abuja on Sunday after attending the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda.

Global South is about a mindset, a solidarity and a self-reliance, said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, adding that the transformation over the last decade has enabled India to be an example, a partner and a contributor.

Addressing the Nigerian Institute Of International Affairs (NIIA) here on India and the Global South, he said the global agenda today is on promoting rebalancing and multipolarity, thereby restoring the world to its natural diversity.

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Contemporary challenges emanate from old forms of domination as well as new economic concentrationGlobal South is about a mindset, a solidarity and a self-reliance, Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar arrived in Nigeria in the concluding leg of his two-nation tour to Uganda and Nigeria.

He arrived in the Nigerian capital Abuja on Sunday after attending the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda.

With inputs from PTI.
Despite mounting pressure on Netanyahu to secure the release, he labeled Hamas demands as unacceptable, involving the withdrawal of forces, release of prisoners, and leaving Hamas intact

In a setback to the prospects of releasing remaining hostages held by Hamas, a Hamas official stated on Sunday that Benjamin Netanyahus rejection of their conditions made the return of the hostages impossible. Netanyahu dismissed Hamass conditions, including leaving the group in power and Israels complete withdrawal from the territory.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas official, told Reuters that the Israeli prime ministers refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza significantly reduced the chance of the return of the estimated 130 Israeli captives.

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Despite mounting pressure on Netanyahu to secure the release, he labeled Hamas demands as unacceptable, involving the withdrawal of forces, release of prisoners, and leaving Hamas intact. I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas, he added.

As tensions escalated, family members of hostages initiated a protest outside Netanyahus private home in Jerusalem, demanding a deal for the return of the hostages. Israels Hostages and Missing Families Forum emphasized that the protest would persist until the prime minister agrees to such a deal.

Highlighting the background, a deal brokered in late November involving the United States, Qatar, and Egypt led to the release of over 100 hostages taken captive by Hamas in October. However, subsequent attempts to secure a ceasefire have failed.

Netanyahu, facing criticism for his approach, reiterated his commitment to pursuing the offensive until total victory. Meanwhile, questions within Israel have arisen regarding the wars conduct, accusing the prime minister of indecision.

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In a broader context, Netanyahu restated his strong stance against Palestinian statehood, emphasising full Israeli security control over the territory west of the Jordan River. Rejecting Joe Bidens call for a Palestinian state, Netanyahu argued that retaining security control over Gaza was crucial to prevent it from posing a threat to Israel.

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Gazas health ministry reported on Sunday that Israels three-month assault had resulted in the death of 25,000 Palestinians, with UN chief Antonio Guterres condemning the civilian killings as heartbreaking and utterly unacceptable at a global summit in Kampala.

The majority of casualties were women and children, and thousands more were likely unaccounted for under the rubble in Gaza.

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(with inputs from Reuters)
The tit-for-tat strikes recently by the two countries were the highest-profile cross-border intrusions in recent years and have raised alarm about wider instability in the region since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct. 7.

Irans foreign minister will visit the country next week, Pakistan said on Monday signalling efforts to rebuild ties after the neighbours exchanged missile strikes last week at what they said were militant targets.

At the invitation of Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, will undertake a visit to Pakistan on 29 January 2024, a Pakistan foreign office statement said.

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In recent years, the tit-for-tat strikes between the two countries have been the highest-profile cross-border intrusions, raising concerns about broader instability in the region, particularly since the outbreak of the war between Israel and Hamas on Oct. 7.

According to Islamabad, it targeted bases of the separatist Baloch Liberation Front and Baloch Liberation Army. Meanwhile, Tehran stated that its missiles hit militants from the Jaish al Adl (JAA) group.

Ambassadors of both countries have also been asked to return to their posts by Jan. 26, the Pakistan foreign ministry said in a statement. Pakistan had recalled its ambassador to Tehran and had not allowed his counterpart to return to Islamabad, as well as cancelling all high-level diplomatic and trade engagements.

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The militant groups operate in an area that includes Pakistans southwestern province of Balochistan and Irans southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan province. Both are restive, mineral-rich and largely underdeveloped.

With inputs from agencies.
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.

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. The vessel, stationed in the port of al-Arish since November, offers medical care amid the collapsing health infrastructure in the war-devastated enclave.

Equipped with wards, operation theatres and a staff of 70 medical professionals, the Dixmude has provided hospitalisation for nearly 120 injured individuals and outpatient consultations for hundreds more, addressing injuries and psychiatric concerns. Captain Alexandre Blonce described the mission as unprecedented.

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The escalation of conflict occurred when Israeli forces initiated a comprehensive campaign to eradicate Gazas ruling Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas. This followed an incursion by Hamas militants into southern Israeli towns and bases on October 7, resulting in 1,200 casualties and 253 hostages taken back to the enclave. The war has claimed the lives of over 25,000 Palestinians.

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.

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.

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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 theyll 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.

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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.

With inputs from agencies.
From 2018 to 2022, the average fertility rate for Jewish women decreased from 3.17 to 3.03 children per woman. Muslim and Christian women witnessed more substantial declines, dropping from 3.20 to 2.91 and 2.06 to 1.68, respectively

Israels population growth, though still robust for a developed nation, is showing signs of deceleration due to declining fertility rates among all religious groups, states a report released Monday by the Taub Center for Social Policy Studies in Israel.

According to reports, the population reached 9.84 million, experiencing a 1.86% increase in the past year, as of the end of the previous year, . Despite a record-low mortality rate until September and elevated immigration levels, this growth rate is below the decade-long average.

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From 2018 to 2022, the average fertility rate for Jewish women decreased from 3.17 to 3.03 children per woman. Muslim and Christian women witnessed more substantial declines, dropping from 3.20 to 2.91 and 2.06 to 1.68, respectively. Druze women also experienced a decrease from 2.16 to 1.85.

In the initial nine months of 2023, the fertility rate among Jewish women was 3.6% lower than the same period in 2022, while Arab women experienced a 3.1% decline.

The report highlights the impact of Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which significantly boosted immigration to Israel, constituting 39% of population growth in 2022 and the first half of 2023.

A noteworthy demographic shift involves a group labeled not classified by religion, primarily immigrants from the former Soviet Union rejected as Jews by religious authorities. This group has played an increasingly significant role, contributing close to 20% to Israels annual growth by 2023.

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Data from the Labor Force Survey indicates that this group, with the highest employment rate and longest work hours in Israel, aligns with the productive population sought by migration advocates in Europe.

The report also observes a consistent rise in fertility treatments in Israel, with 26 Health Ministry-approved IVF clinics conducting 50,680 treatment cycles in 2020. In 2019, 5% of all live births were assisted by IVF, reflecting a growing trend in fertility interventions.
Political pundits say the former US president is set to be the GOPs nominee and the November 2024 presidential elections will be a repeat of 2020 polls: Trump vs Biden

Nikki Haley is the only Republican left in the race against Donald Trump after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced to withdraw from the GOPs presidential primary race and endorse the former US president as the partys nominee.

DeSantis was once seen as a formidable challenge to Trump.

A report by PTI cited political pundits saying the former US president is set to be the GOPs nominee and the November 2024 presidential elections will be a repeat of 2020 polls: Trump vs Biden.

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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

After DeSantis pulled out of the race, former governor of South Carolina Nikki Haley, 51, is the only Republican left in the race against Trump, 77, who has been seeking to enter the White House for the second term.

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A White House occupant from January 2017 to January 2021, Trump lost to incumbent Joe Biden in 2020 elections.

Last week, Trump, so far the most popular Republican presidential candidate with a majority of the party members supporting him, as per all major polls, won the Iowa Caucus and is leading in the New Hampshire primaries which is scheduled for 23 January.

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Following our second-place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on our way forward. If there was anything I could do to produce a 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 today suspending my campaign, DeSantis said in a video message posted on X (formerly Twitter).

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Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance. 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 said.

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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. A repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents, he added.

Trump welcomes dropout by DeSantis

The Trump campaign welcomed the dropout by DeSantis. 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, his campaign said.

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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, the campaign said criticising Haley.

Its time to choose wisely. pic.twitter.com/R0izQdl4LD  Liz Harrington (@realLizUSA) January 21, 2024

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Haley to stay in the race

Haley, meanwhile, insisted that she will stay in the race. 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 at a campaign event in New Hampshire.

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In a statement, she said that so far only one state has voted. Half of its votes went to 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. When Im president, I will do everything in my power to show them they made the right decision, Haley said.

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Haley needs to dropout to save herself from humiliation

A memo issued by the Trump Campaign said Haley needs to dropout of the race to save herself from humiliation.

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, said the memo issued by the Trump Campaign.

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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), it said.

Option B: Nikki Haley prepares to be absolutely DEMOLISHED and EMBARRASSED 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, it said.
Ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, the Janaki Temple in Nepals Janakpur has been adorned with colourful lights as people are eagerly preparing to celebrate the ceremony scheduled to take place in Ayodhya today

Ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Janaki Temple in Nepals Janakpur has been adorned with colourful lights as people are eagerly preparing to celebrate the Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, scheduled for today.

Janakpur, known as the supposed home of Goddess Sita and her father King Janak, is actively getting ready for the festivities on Monday. The city is abuzz with excitement as it organises Deepawali, enveloping the surroundings with ornamental lights and a festive display.

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Raja Ramchandra after the Vanvas (exile) in Tretayuga, the pain he had to endure; it continued in Kaliyuga as well, he had to struggle for five hundred years in Ayodhya- the birth land of Lord Ram, he had to shelter under the tarpaulin, his pain indeed was the pain of all the Hindus. Our ancestors had fought and struggled hard and the end result is here with the construction of temple of Maryadapurush Lord Ram whose Pran Pratistha is scheduled for 22 January. On this occasion, I congratulate all the Indian nationals and Janakpur also is in state of joyousness, Pramod Kumar Chaudhary, former chairman of the Shree Ram Youth Committee, told ANI news agency.

The holy city of Ayodhya has been decked up with lights. Janaki Sena (Army), a youth group led a campaign to collect donations in the form of oil, cotton lamps, clay pots as they aim to light two hundred and fifty thousand oil-fed lamps.

Residents of Janakpur and Mithila are extending their support providing oil, lamps, clay items along with other items of necessity which we would require to make our campaign successful. Despite the nightfall, people still have been signing themselves up for the donation of oil which ranges from one liter to the highest as per their capacity, said Asutosh Jha, one of the members of organising committee.

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According to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple trust, Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit will officiate the main rituals during the Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the event, thousands of politicians, saints, and celebrities, have been invited to the ceremony.

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.

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From Nepals 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.

Janakpur, maternal home of Goddess Sita is also set to hold a slew of events on the day of Pran Pratistha. As it plans to hold Deepawali on Monday evening, artists will make Rangoli using colours as well as flowers. The collection drive to light up about 2,50,000 oil-fed lamps is underway with over 2500 litres of mustard oil already collected for Deepawali on Monday evening.

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Pran Pratishtha will be conducted in the presence of Prime Minister Modi, Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Mohan Bhagwat, Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister of UP Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries.

Acharyas of all schools of Bharatiya spiritualism, religion, sect, system of worship, tradition, Sants of more than 150 traditions, Mahamandaleshwars, Mandaleshwars, Shrimahants, Mahants, Nagas, as well as leading figures of more than 50 Adivasi, Girivasi, Tatavasi, Dwipavasi tribal traditions, will remain present to witness the Prana Pratistha ceremony on the premises of the Bhavya Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir.

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The presence of the tribal traditions being represented by the people of the hills, forests, coastal belts, islands, etc., is happening for the first time in recent history.

The traditions include Shaiva, Vaishnav, Shaakta, Ganapatya, Patya, Sikh, Bauddha, Jain, Dashnam, Shankar, Ramanand, Ramanuj, Nimbarka, Madhva, Vishnu Nami, Ramsanehi, Ghisapanth, Garibdasi, Gaudiya, Kabirpanthi, Valmiki, Shankardev (Assam), Madhav Dev, ISKCON, Ramakrishna Mission, Chinmaya Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangha, Gayatri Parivar, Anukul Chandra, Thakur Parampara, Mahima Samaj of Odisha, Akali, Nirankari, Namdhari from Punjab, Radhasoami, and Swaminarayan, Varkari, Veer Shaiva, etc.

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After the completion of the Pran Pratishtha programme in the Garbha-Griha, all the witnesses will have darshan respectively.

The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed.

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The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. Near the Mandir is a historic Well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

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With inputs from agencies
Yunnan is a remote region of China and landslide in common there as it is situated in the region where steep mountain ranges butt against the Himalayan plateau

At least 47 villagers are buried in Chinas southwest Yunnan province after a landslide on early Monday. A search and rescue operation continue in the region.

Sharing a video of rescue operation, Peoples Daily, China, cited local authorities saying, 47 villagers were buried in a landslide that occurred in Zhenxiong County of Zhaotong City, southwest Chinas Yunnan Province on early Monday.

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47 villagers were buried in a landslide that occurred in Zhenxiong County of Zhaotong City, southwest China's Yunnan Province on early Monday, local authorities said. A search and rescue operation is currently underway. pic.twitter.com/ugDPG8XiMA  People's Daily, China (@PDChina) January 22, 2024

As per reports, the landslide took place before 6 am in the village of Liangshui, under the town of Tangfang in Zhenxiong County. The rescue efforts were underway to find victims in 18 separate houses, said the country publicity department.

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The cause of the landslide was not immediately known.

The state media broadcaster said more than 200 people have been evacuated from the region.

A report by Xinhua news agency said the number of villagers buried was unknown.

Yunnan is a remote region of China and landslide in common there as it is situated in the region where steep mountain ranges butt against the Himalayan plateau.

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China landslide on Monday came just a little over a month after the country witnessed most powerful earthquake in years that hit the northwest in a remote region between Gansu and Qinghai province.

At least 149 people were killed in the 6.2-magnitude temblor that struck on 18 December, 2023, reducing homes to rubble and triggering heavy mudslides that inundated two villages in Qinghai province.

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Nearly 1,000 were injured and more than 14,000 homes were destroyed in Chinas deadliest earthquake in nine years.

With inputs from agencies
Following the massive 1MDB corruption scandal, Mahathir announced his retirement and teamed up with the opposition in 2018 to win a brief second term as prime minister. This came after he had led a long-ruling coalition

Just one week after his eldest son was told to provide information to investigators, former Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad denounced as politically motivated a graft investigation into his associates.

Mahathir, a longstanding figure in Malaysian politics who has served as prime minister twice, claimed that the government of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is targeting political opponents with accusations of corruption.

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Following the massive 1MDB corruption scandal, Mahathir announced his retirement and teamed up with the opposition in 2018 to win a brief second term as prime minister. This came after he had led a long-ruling coalition.

Businessman Mirzan Mahathir and tycoon Daim Zainuddin were revealed to hold millions offshore in the Pandora Papers, a 2021 document leak that revealed offshore accounts held by some of the worlds wealthiest people and politicians.

The anti-graft agency ordered Mirzan to declare all his assets within 30 days on Jan 17. It had earlier opened a probe into Daim, a former Finance Minister and ally of Mahathir. Mirzan has also been accused of shady dealings in relation to the sale and acquisition of a government-linked company.

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Mahathir, 98, said he believed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was fishing for evidence to implicate him, and accused Anwar of selective prosecution.

Prosecutors dropped 47 graft charges against Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi last year while the trial was at an advanced stage.

Mahathir also said no action was taken against anti-graft agency chief Azam Baki over a share trading scandal in 2022. This is Malaysian justice under Anwars regime, Mahathir told a news conference.

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The law is being abused for political ends. Im saying very clearly that the people who are against the government will have the law thrown in their faces. Those who are for the government can escape, he said.

Mahathir held office from 1981-2003, and again from 2018-2020. He has a long political history with Anwar, who was his deputy and finance minister in the 1990s before they fell out amid the Asian financial crisis. Anwar was later jailed for corruption and sodomy, charges he said were framed to kill his political career.

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The pair joined hands for the 2018 general elections to oust the long-ruling coalition, while Anwar was in jail for a second sodomy charge. He was pardoned by the king shortly after their victory. Mahathir became premier a second time in a deal that called for him later to hand over power to Anwar, but their alliance collapsed amid infighting.

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Mahathir now supports the opposition Malay-Islamic alliance, and has constantly slammed Anwars unity government, took power in November 2022.

The anti-graft agency has said it began investigations in August 2022 - before Anwar took power - into all entities and related assets named in the Pandora Papers and the Panama Papers, a giant leak of financial records in 2016 that showed how some of the worlds richest people hide their money.

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It said it has questioned 10 people so far, including Mirzan and Daim, and recently seized a building belonging to Daim. Last week, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists said that new leaked documents it obtained showed that Daims family members were beneficiaries of a multimillion-dollar trust with investments in UK and US real estate.

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Daim and his family say their offshore assets were a result of legitimate business activities and investments, and have taken legal steps to challenge the graft probe, which they call unconstitutional.

(with inputs from The Associated Press)
Netanyahu is facing mounting pressure to secure the release of the hostages, but said in a statement that the Hamas demands included the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists  and leaving Hamas intact.

The possibility of a deal to release the remaining hostages held by Hamas seemed to recede on Sunday, as a Hamas official said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus rejection of their conditions meant there was no chance of their return.

Netanyahu had earlier rejected conditions presented by Hamas to end the war and release hostages that would include Israels complete withdrawal and leaving Hamas in power in Gaza.

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A Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, told Reuters the Israeli prime ministers refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza means there is no chance for the return of the [Israeli> captives, which are estimated to be 130 in number

Netanyahu is facing mounting pressure to secure the release of the hostages, but said in a statement that the Hamas demands included the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists  and leaving Hamas intact.

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.

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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.

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Relatives of the hostages at a protest outside Netanyahus 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.

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U.S. President Joe Biden said on Friday he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for the creation of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a non-militarized government.

Netanyahu appeared on Saturday to push back against Bidens remarks about Palestinian statehood after the war against Hamas in Gaza ended 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.

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With inputs from Reuters.
Authorities in Pakistan had earlier declared that major militants engaged in several terror acts in Balochistan had been killed by the airstrikes on the bases of the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) organization on January 18

Fearing potential Islamist threats, Pakistani officials temporarily closed at least three prestigious universities on Monday, including the National Defence University.

An intelligence agencys security alert about a potential attack on higher education institutions with ties to the military prompted the Pakistani government to temporarily close the military-run National Defense University, Air University, and Bahria University, among other institutions.

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The action was initiated after it became clear which Baloch terrorists killed in the Iranian airstrikes were key rebels wanted for an attack in the province of Balochistan.

The Army, Air Force, and Navy are in charge of the three elite universities, in that order.

At least three prominent universities, including the National Defence University, were briefly closed by Pakistani authorities on Monday due to concerns about possible Islamist threats.

The Pakistani government, acting on a security notice from an intelligence agency on a possible attack on military-affiliated higher education institutions, temporarily closed National Defense University, Air University, and Bahria University, among other military-run schools.

After it was discovered which Baloch militants killed in the Iranian airstrikes were important rebels wanted for an attack in the region of Balochistan, action was taken.

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The Army, Air Force, and Navy are in charge of the three elite universities, in that order.

The law and order and security situation in Islamabad is under control, Islamabad Police Inspector-General (IGP) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan stated in a video message.

Additionally, he issued an outright ban on public gatherings and emphasized that there should be no such events held in the current circumstances.

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He went on to say that the police will keep up their efforts to keep the forthcoming elections safe.

Meanwhile, heads of police stations have been asked to increase patrolling in their respective areas and sub-divisional police officers tasked to monitor patrolling.

Authorities in Pakistan had earlier declared that major militants engaged in several terror acts in Balochistan had been killed by the airstrikes on the bases of the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) organization on January 18.

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(With agency inputs)
The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the temple in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister led the rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday.

Pakistan on Monday condemned the consecration of a Ram Temple in Ayodhya and urged the international community to take note of the increasing incidents of Islamophobia, hate speech and hate crimes in India.

Pakistans foreign office said in a statement that the consecration ceremony is indicative of Indias growing majoritarianism.

The United Nations and other relevant international organizations should play their part in saving the Islamic heritage sites in India from extremist groups and ensuring the protection of the religious and cultural rights of the minorities in India, the Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press statement.

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Developments of the last 31 years, leading to todays consecration ceremony, are indicative of growing majoritarianism in India. These constitute an important facet of the ongoing efforts for social, economic and political marginalization of the Indian Muslims, the spokesperson said.

: PR NO. 24/2024



Pakistan Condemns Consecration of the Ram Temple on the Site of Demolished Babri Mosque



https://t.co/s3zJmZMhzN pic.twitter.com/X5rYshPxDu  Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 22, 2024

The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the temple in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister led the rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday.

The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple.PM Modi performed parikrama of the deity and did dandvat pranam.

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He also took blessings from sadhus. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present at the ceremony. Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showered flower petals over Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled.

Over 8,000 guests have been invited to the ceremony at the grand temple.The historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony was attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country.

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People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities also attended the ceremony. Prime Minister will interact with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir.

He will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored later in the day. The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir has been constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

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The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses.

With inputs from agencies.
Following the telephone conversation between the foreign ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by January 26, 2024, Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement

Pakistan and Iran have mutually agreed to restore diplomatic ties by reinstating their ambassadors in each others countries, Pakistan Foreign Office (FO) announced on Monday.

This decision comes after a recent escalation in tensions, marked by tit-for-tat attacks on each others territories.

Additionally, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian is scheduled to visit Pakistan on 29 January, following an invitation extended by Pakistans Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani.

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The recent strain between Islamabad and Tehran stemmed from Pakistans execution of precision military strikes on alleged terrorist hideouts in Irans Siestan-Balochistan province, resulting in nine casualties.

The attack was perceived as a response to Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting two bases of the Sunni Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistans Balochistan province the previous week.

Following the telephone conversation between the foreign ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by January 26, 2024, the statement read.

Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said Jilani deserves all the credit for his visionary engagement and managing possibly one of the fastest de-escalations of the diplomatic history.

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The development comes amid the reported visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to Pakistan on a mediation mission.

China on Monday said it is maintaining close contacts with Pakistan and Iran to bridge their differences after the two nations conducted airstrikes against each other last week.

China on Thursday last offered to play a constructive role to ease tension between Islamabad and Tehran after relations between Iran and Pakistan nose-dived following the strikes.

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The attacks have put China in a piquant situation as Pakistan is an all-weather ally, while Iran is warming up to Beijing in recent years enabling Beijing to expand its influence in the West Asia region.

With inputs from agencies
In a television appearance, Jonathan Malaya made reference to a report that the Philippine Coast Guard had released over the weekend on an event that occurred on January 12 and stated that the Chinese coast guard told fishermen to return sea shells obtained close to the disputed Scarborough Shoal

The spokesperson for the National Security Council stated on Monday that the Philippines has denounced the most recent provocative action taken by the Chinese coast guard against Filipino fishermen.

In a television appearance, Jonathan Malaya made reference to a report that the Philippine Coast Guard had released over the weekend on an event that occurred on January 12 and stated that the Chinese coast guard had told fishermen to return sea shells they had obtained close to the disputed Scarborough Shoal before driving them away.

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(With agency inputs)
With the deal that liberated 105 civilians from Hamas in late November, Israel believes that 132 hostages are still held in Gaza

Several demonstrators assembled in front of the Knesset - the parliament of Israel - to demand fresh elections. Leading the raucous chants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the administration, Mor Shamgar claims she backed Likud before Netanyahu became influential in the party.

I left in 1999 when I realized who Netanyahu is He is only concerned for himself. If Yair Netanyahu were to go help clean up in Beeri, or if Avner Netanyahu went to Kfar Aza to help pick fruits and vegetables, then I would know that our prime minister is true to his word. Until then hes not worthy, she was quoted as saying by the Israeli media.

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The ruling coalition parties are being referred to by the demonstrators as traitors who have given up on the hostages.

Merav Michaeli, the outgoing chairwoman of the Labor party, joined the anti-Netanyahu demonstrators in calling for the movement of this government.

In the meantime, a group of demonstrators and relatives of the hostages shut down traffic in front of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus home on Azza Street in Jerusalem on Sunday night. They demanded that the government come to an agreement to guarantee the release of the last captives held by Hamas.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum organized the protest, which attempted to make the government responsible for the hostages deaths without outright denouncing it.

Organizers had to rapidly quell rogue demonstrators who broke into yells of Shame! against the government in the middle of remarks by the captives families.

The Wall Street Journal had reported on a possible US-Egyptian-Qatari plan to end the war, free the hostages held by Hamas, normalize relations between Israel and its neighbors, and start negotiations toward the creation of a Palestinian state. This plan was the basis for the spontaneous demonstration that took place.

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With the deal that liberated 105 civilians from Hamas in late November, Israel believes that 132 hostages are still held in Gaza. Using fresh information and discoveries gathered by forces conducting operations in Gaza, the IDF has confirmed the deaths of 28 of the people who were still being detained by Hamas. Before then, four hostages had been released and one had been rescued by the military.

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In addition, the bodies of eight hostages have been found, and the military wrongly executed three hostages. Since October 7, one additional person has been reported missing; their whereabouts are still unknown.
UNGA President Dennis Francis, who arrived in India on Monday, said he is looking forward to discussing peace and progress in the country

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis arrived in New Delhi on Monday for a five-day visit at the invitation of Indias External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar. Upon arrival, Francis expressed his happiness as landed in India amid consecration ceremony at Ayodhya Ram Temple.

The UNGA President, who was received at the airport by Indias permanent representative to the UN, Ruchira Kamboj, said he is looking forward to discussing peace and progress in the country.

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Namaste, Bharat! Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its Second Diwali. Looking forward to fruitful discussions over the next few days on Peace, Progress, Prosperity and Sustainability! Francis expressed his feeling on X after arriving in India.

Namaste, ! 



Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its Second Diwali.



Looking forward to fruitful discussions over the next few days on Peace, Progress, Prosperity and Sustainability!#UNGA78 pic.twitter.com/mkMaqqKECU  UN GA President (@UN_PGA) January 22, 2024

Meanwhile, the Pran Prathistha or consecration ceremony was being held on Monday, 22 January, 2024, in the temple town of Ayodhya amid tight security. The historic ritual of Ram Lalla Pran Pratistha took place in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath, saints, seers and a host of distinguished guests.

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The Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Temple was held at 12:30 pm (IST).

UNGA Presidents India visit

During the visit, the UNGA President will hold talks with EAM Jaishankar on key multilateral issues of mutual interest.

Besides holding talks with his Indian interlocutors in New Delhi, the top UN official will also travel to Jaipur and Mumbai.

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In Mumbai, he will pay floral tributes at the 26/11 memorial. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), on Saturday, said the visit by the President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly (PGA) to India will also be an opportunity to enhance the countrys collaboration with the global body.

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The MEA said Francis visit will also be an opportunity to enhance Indias collaboration with the United Nations on Indian priorities as well as the global challenges being faced by the Global South.

In New Delhi, the PGA will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. He is also scheduled to attend a round table on Indias advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

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Francis will also deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability.

On 26 January, the PGA will participate as a state guest in the Republic Day Parade of Maharashtra.

Belonging to the diplomatic service of Trinidad and Tobago, Francis has announced his presidency priorities to include peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability. The theme of his Presidency of the 78th UNGA is Rebuilding trust and reigniting solidarity.

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With inputs from PTI
Some companies, such as U.S.-based BDI Furniture, have said they are relying more on factories in places such as Turkey and Vietnam to mitigate the impact of the disruptions, adding to recent moves by Western countries to reduce dependence on China amid geopolitical tensions.

Chinese businessman Han Changming is facing a threat to the survival of his trading company in the eastern province of Fujian due to disruptions in Red Sea freight.

Han, engaged in exporting Chinese-made cars to Africa and importing off-road vehicles from Europe, told Reuters that the cost of shipping a container to Europe has dramatically increased. The price has surged to approximately $7,000, up from $3,000 in December, coinciding with heightened attacks on shipping by Yemens Iran-aligned Houthi movement in the Red Sea.

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The disruptions have wiped out our already thin profits, said Han, adding that higher shipping insurance premiums are also taking a toll on Fuzhou Han Changming International Trade Co Ltd, the company he founded in 2016.

The rupture of one of the worlds busiest shipping routes has exposed the vulnerability of Chinas export-reliant economy to supply snarls and external demand shocks. In a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday, Premier Li Qiang emphasised the need to keep global supply chains stable and smooth, without referring specifically to the Red Sea.

Some companies, such as U.S.-based BDI Furniture, have said they are relying more on factories in places such as Turkey and Vietnam to mitigate the impact of the disruptions, adding to recent moves by Western countries to reduce dependence on China amid geopolitical tensions.

At stake for China now is the danger that other firms will follow suit and reassess their de-risking strategy, opting potentially to shift production closer to home, an approach known as near-shoring.

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If its permanent, and it could be permanent, then the whole mechanism will be readjusted, said Marco Castelli, founder of IC Trade, which exports Chinese-made mechanical components to Europe. Some (companies) may also consider moving more production to India, which is one week closer to Europe. Companies need to reevaluate everything.

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Further Red Sea disruptions would pile pressure on a struggling Chinese economy already contending with a property crisis, weak consumer demand, a shrinking population and sluggish global growth.

With Europe and Africa trade accounting for 40% of Hans overall business, he said he had been pleading with suppliers and customers to shoulder some of the additional costs to keep his company afloat. Shipping times for some orders were delayed by up to several weeks, he said.

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Compounding the pain for some firms, the disruptions come as many are navigating a logistics challenge ahead of Lunar New Year in February, when some 300 million migrant workers go on leave and almost all factories in China shut, creating a scramble in the preceding weeks to get goods shipped.

Mike Sagan, the Shenzhen-based vice president for supply chains and operations at KidKraft, a maker of outdoor play equipment and wooden toys, said many European customers are slamming on the brakes, saying: Dont ship anything, hold it.

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A lot of suppliers, theyre screaming about money today, said Sagan, whose company supplies retailers including Walmart and Target.

A worry for larger manufacturers, he said, is the snowball effect on smaller suppliers with tight margins, as they would be among the last to receive payments but are critical to the supply chain.

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Rerouting vessels from the Red Sea - the shortest route from Asia to Europe via the Suez Canal - around the Cape of Good Hope can add two weeks to shipping schedules, reducing global container capacity and cleaving supply chains as it takes longer for vessels to return to ports to reload.

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That probably means delays for goods scheduled to arrive on Western shelves in April or May. Some logistics companies are already reporting a container shortage at Ningbo-Zhoushan port in China, one of the worlds busiest by cargo tonnage, according to BMI, an industry research firm.

The Suez Canal is a primary route for Chinas westward shipments of goods, including around 60% of its exports to Europe, according to the Middle East Institute, a Washington-based think tank.

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HUGE IMPACT

Yang Bingben, whose company makes industrial-use valves in eastern Chinas manufacturing hub of Wenzhou, said a client in Shanghai this week slashed an order for 75 valves - intended for assembly into large machinery for shipment overseas - to 15 amid soaring freight costs. The impact is huge, said Yang, adding that he had prepared raw materials that could not be returned because they had been processed. Its like I received an order that makes me lose money.

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Yang is now rethinking his staffing needs for this year, saying he cant guarantee salaries as his workers are paid based on the amount of work they do. If I dont have enough work to give them, Im afraid they wont be able to make a living.

In southern China, Wei Qiongfang, a freight forwarder based in Guangzhou, said some suppliers were delaying shipments of lower-value goods, pressuring manufacturers stockpiles.

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As once-predictable trade conditions become increasingly uncertain, the impact is especially acute for companies that rely on just-in-time deliveries or that need to change their stock regularly.

Another issue, said Castelli, is that factories do not get paid until goods arrive at their destination.

So if their payment is delayed, they cant pay their suppliers, they cant pay their workers, he said. China is so successful in the global market because they work with tiny margins: when you have volume, the money rolls in; when the money stops coming, you have a big problem.

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In the Pearl River Delta city of Dongguan, Gerhard Flatz, managing director of premium sportswear manufacturer KTC, is concerned that some companies grappling with shrinking margins will go under. So, they are struggling, and now there is another logistics crisis. You know, at some point many will have to shut down, said Flatz.

With inputs from Reuters.
The bill would allow the state for example, to seize the property of Russians who have left the country and have criticised the war but who continue to rely on revenue from renting out their houses or apartments in Russia.

Russias parliament on Monday started considering a draft bill that would grant the state the authority to confiscate the property of individuals convicted of defamation of the armed forces or publicly advocating actions undermining state security.

This move is drawing comparisons to the witch hunts of the 1930s during the era of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, characterized by enemy of the state rhetoric. The proposed legislation could potentially impact thousands of Russians who have expressed opposition to Moscows invasion of Ukraine.

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While criticising Moscows termed special military operation in Ukraine has been effectively treated as a crime in Russia since its commencement nearly two years ago, the new bill seeks to intensify penalties for such actions.

It would allow the state for example, to seize the property of Russians who have left the country and have criticised the war but who continue to rely on revenue from renting out their houses or apartments in Russia.

The speaker of the State Duma lower house of parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, has dubbed the new bill the scoundrel law.

Everyone who tries to destroy Russia betrays it, must be punished accordingly and repay the damage to the country in the form of their property, he said at the weekend while announcing the submission of the bill.

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With inputs from Reuters.
All the victims will be declared as saints on 21 April, 2019, Easter Sunday attacks fifth anniversary announced Sri Lankas Catholic Church

All the 273 people, including 11 Indians, killed in the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings will be declared as saints on its fifth anniversary, announced Sri Lankas Catholic Church.

On 21 April, 2019, nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka.

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The move of declaring all 273 people saints was announced by Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, during a mass on Sunday.

A person can be named a saint only after the completion of five years since ones sacrifice. Therefore, we will move towards declaring Easter Sunday victims as saints on 21 April this year," Ranjith said.

Those who died in churches in April 2019 sacrificed their lives for what they believed in. They came to church because they believed in Christ, Ranjith said.

According to a report by PTI, Ranjith, over the past five years, was at loggerheads with the Sri Lankan government seeking justice for the victims.

He slammed all investigations as a sham and alleged that it was a political cover-up. Ranjith also sought for an international investigation into the attacks.

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The then president Maithripala Sirisena and his top defence hierarchy were accused of inaction to prevent the attack despite being provided with prior intelligence from India.

Also, the court had ordered Sirisena and the police top brass to pay compensation to the victims, but reportedly only part payments had been made so far.

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Sirisena denies the charge and blames the then defence establishment for the lapse which led to the coordinated attacks.

The Sri Lankan government said it has arrested hundreds of people and the legal proceedings are moving forward.

Earlier, it was known that 270 people had died in the attacks.

The catholic church has a long process leading to sainthood.

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With inputs from PTI
Centcom described this seizure as the first seizure of lethal, Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons to the Houthis since the initiation of Houthi attacks on merchant ships in November 2023

In a statement released on Sunday, US Central Command (Centcom) announced the unfortunate deaths of two missing US Navy Seals. The elite personnel had been part of an operation on January 11 to intercept Iranian weapons en route to Yemens Houthi rebels.

Despite a rigorous 10-day search, the Seals were not located, prompting Centcom to officially change their status to deceased. The operation involved boarding an illicit dhow off the coast of Somalia, where missile components made in Iran were successfully seized.

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Centcom described this seizure as the first seizure of lethal, Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons to the Houthis since the initiation of Houthi attacks on merchant ships in November 2023.

The US military clarified that the Seals went missing during a flag verification of the dhow near Somalias coast. Executing a complex night-time boarding operation, supported by helicopters and drones, the Seals seized Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile components.

Earlier reports indicated that the Seals approached the dhow in small special operations combat boats. During the boarding in challenging sea conditions, one Seal commando was knocked into the sea by a high wave, prompting another to dive in after him following protocol.

Houthi rebels began targeting ships in the Red Sea in November, claiming connections to Israel. The attacks, allegedly in support of Palestinians in Gaza, led the US and Britain to strike dozens of Houthi rebel targets.

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Despite these actions, the rebels persisted in targeting ships, causing significant diversions in global trade passing through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This vital Red Sea entrance, situated between southwest Yemen and Djibouti, has witnessed increased tension and disruptions due to the ongoing conflict.

(with inputs from AFP)
Addressing the media on Friday, Matt Jukes, Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, emphasised the severity of the threat, asserting that it is currently at its peak since the Cold War era

In response to heightened intelligence indicating potential espionage threats from China, Russia, and Iran, UK authorities have initiated a dedicated unit to counteract these risks, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming general election slated for the second half of this year.

Addressing the media on Friday, Matt Jukes, Assistant Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, emphasised the severity of the threat, asserting that it is currently at its peak since the Cold War era.

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Jukes specifically pointed to elements within the state apparatuses of Iran, China, and Russia.

Last year, the UK enacted the National Security Act, an initiative aimed at equipping security services with enhanced capabilities to confront state-sponsored sabotage. This legislation modernised Londons espionage laws, originally crafted during World War I in response to German espionage threats.

Utilising the powers granted by the National Security Act, the newly established counter-espionage unit intends to become the most overt component of the UK security community, intensifying its response to hostile state actions, according to Jukes.

Highlighting the concerning surge in online misinformation, Jukes revealed that the scale surpasses that of any previous election year in the UK. He expressed apprehension about plots targeting political figures, citing over 15 direct threats associated with the Iranian state in the past two years.

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Jukes substantiated the urgency of the situation, cautioning that indicators point in an unfavorable direction.

In a recent case, an Austrian citizen of Chechen origin, Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev, received a three-and-a-half-year jail term for engaging in hostile reconnaissance of an Iranian media company in London. Authorities discovered evidence on his phone indicating he had been documenting the buildings security arrangements.

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During Dovtaevs trial, it was revealed that the targeted TV station had criticized the Iranian government for human rights violations. Dovtaev, however, claimed innocence, asserting that he was framed by an unknown contact and had an affinity for the buildings architecture.

With the UKs next general election looming later this year and mandated to occur before January 28, 2025, the establishment of this specialized unit underscores the nations commitment to safeguarding its democratic processes.

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(with inputs from Reuters)
The UN employees take bribes to help the contractor navigate the complex UNDPs bidding system and ensure they pass the vetting process

Corruption has been described as the lifeblood of politics in Iraq, and for this, the United Nations was tasked to oversee the allocation of contracts for post-war reconstruction projects, with an aim of keeping things transparent. However, allegations have arisen that staff within UNDP engaged in demanding bribes from businessmen seeking assistance in securing contracts.

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The Guardian carried out an investigation in which it found that bribes of up to 15 per cent of the contract value have been demanded by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) staff.

Also, it came to fore that taking bribery is not new in Iraq and it dates backs to 2003 since Saddam Hussein was overthrown.

Why UNDP staff are taking bribe from businessmen?

The report said the UN employees take bribes to help the contractor navigate the complex UNDPs bidding system and ensure they pass the vetting process.

You can get nothing without paying

Nobody can get a contract without paying. Theres nothing in this country you can get without paying, not from the government, not from UNDP, the report quoted a contractor as saying, who claimed that they had been approached by UNDP staff demanding bribes.

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A UNDP scheme launched in 2015 and backed by $1.5bn (1.2bn) in support so far from 30 donors, including the UK.

Since the 2003 US-led invasion, the international community has pumped billions of aid dollars into Iraq. It has been more than 20 years and the country, despite being the worlds fourth-largest oil producer and generating a record-breaking $115bn in oil revenues in 2023, continues to suffer from poor services and infrastructure.

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Not a transparent deal

The report, said to have interviewed more than two dozen current and former UN employees, contractors, Iraqi and western officials, mentioned a UNDP employee saying the deals were made in person rather than on paper to avoid detection. Also, sometimes there were influential Iraqis serving as guarantors.

The third party also takes a share of the kickback, they said, adding that the contractors would choose people with relationships and power.

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The report further said interviewees spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation. They said the programme had undergone an unwarranted expansion and extension that had mostly served to sustain the UNDPs footprint while absolving the Iraqi government of its own obligations to rebuild the country.

Govt officials take a cut too

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It is also being alleged that government officials entrusted by the UNDP to oversee construction projects also take a cut.

The report cited contractors and UNDP staff, who have overseen projects, saying officials used that authority to extort bribes from companies in return for signing off completed projects.

Two contractors told they were forced to make such payments.

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What UNDP has to say?

The UNDP said it has taken allegations of corruption and lack of transparency very seriously and had zero tolerance for fraud and corruption.

This policy applies equally to UNDP staff members, as well as other personnel, vendors, implementing partners, and responsible parties engaged by UNDP. Any allegation of bribery, corruption, or fraud is thoroughly assessed and, where appropriate, investigated by UNDPs independent Office of Audit and Investigation," the UN agency said.
According to a 9to5Google report, Google is developing two sizes for the upcoming Pixel Watch 3. The aim is to improve the design concerns raised by users of the first two generations.

The Pixel Watch 2, launched in October last year, had upgraded specifications but retained the same design, featuring a 41mm diameter and 12.3mm thickness.

While the exact sizes are unknown, the larger option will exceed the 41mm size of the Pixel Watch 2. A larger case could accommodate a 1.3 or even larger display, improving battery life and potentially adding new health sensors. In comparison, Samsung offers the Galaxy Watch 6 in 40mm and 44mm sizes, and the Apple Watch Series 9 is available in 41mm or 45mm.

The report suggests that if Google releases multiple sizes of the Pixel Watch 3, the larger model may not be compatible with existing bands, likely using 22mm bands compared to the current 20mm bands on the Pixel Watch 2.

Given the absence of news about a new Qualcomm wearable chipset for the Wear OS platform, its likely that the Pixel Watch 3 will continue using the existing Snapdragon W5 chipset.

Google may also address complaints about thick bezels seen in previous generations of the smartwatch. The smartwatch is anticipated to debut in early October alongside the Pixel 9 series, with more details expected closer to the launch.

Source
Ryan Lee Reid, "The Piano Cowboy", and Janet Sue Reid, "The Culinary Cowgirl", are artists and creators. They transform space and time to move and heal people through art. They live in Sugar Land with their children. Find their full bios and contact them through ReidFeed.com.
Iti doresti o presa libera si independenta, care nu da inapoi cand vine vorba de respectarea standardelor profesionale, refuza sa se lase cenzurata, sustine independenta justitiei, transparenta decizionala si valorile democratice. Alege sa o sustii.
China urges relevant parties to avoid adding fuel to Red Sea tension

Global Times

Military means cannot resolve the Red Sea crisis: experts

By Chen Qingqing Published: Jan 21, 2024 11:06 PM

With global concerns rising over the prolonged Red Sea crisis, which not only causes a severe impact on shipping routes but also poses risks to the post-pandemic economic recovery, China has called for an end to attacks on civilian ships and urged the parties concerned to avoid adding fuel to the tensions in the Red Sea, as some Chinese experts noted that US military actions are exacerbating the Red Sea crisis.

China has been making active efforts to ease tensions in the Red Sea from the very beginning, having called for an end to the attacks on civilian ships and urged relevant parties to avoid adding fuel to the tensions in the Red Sea, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in an interview with the media after concluding his trip to Africa.

During Wang's visit, discussions were held on addressing the spillover effects of the Gaza conflict, particularly on safeguarding the security of the Red Sea navigation channels, Wang said. China calls for an end to the harassment of civilian vessels, and urges relevant parties to avoid adding fuel to the fire, jointly safeguard the security of the sea lanes in accordance with the law, and earnestly respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries bordering the Red Sea, including Yemen.

The structure of the global benchmark Brent crude futures market and some physical markets in Europe and Africa have been reflecting tighter supply partly over concerns about shipping delays as vessels have avoided or tried to avoid the Red Sea due to missile and drone attacks, Al Jazeera reported on Saturday.

US Central Command forces struck a Houthi anti-ship missile prepared to launch and aimed at the Gulf of Aden on Saturday, Voice of America reported on Saturday. It was the US military's seventh strike against Houthi missile launchers in a week.

The White House said the strikes are necessary to protect merchant ships and US Navy vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, according to the VOA.

The Red Sea crisis is an international issue that affects global supply chains and the security of maritime trade routes, involving stakeholders from around the globe. Addressing the Red Sea crisis should not involve forming exclusive, small multilateral organizations with "high walls" but rather involve a collective effort to resolve the crisis, Sun Degang, director of the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Fudan University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

The root of the Red Sea crisis lies in the Palestinian region. Without addressing this root cause, merely attempting to resolve the crisis in the Red Sea is likely insufficient, Sun noted. "The motive behind the Houthi rebels intercepting commercial ships in the Red Sea is to strike against Israel, signaling the need for Israel to resolve the conflict and end the collective punishment of people in the Gaza Strip."

Some experts noted that military means alone cannot resolve the Red Sea crisis. The frequent strikes by the US and Western forces against the Houthi rebels actually lead to the rise of more anti-American forces, including the unification of forces like Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Houthi rebels.

"This approach of meeting violence with violence only creates more conflicts and confrontations, escalating the crisis," Sun said.

The spillover of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is escalating in the directions of Syria, Lebanon and the Red Sea, presenting a coordinated uptick in tensions, Liu Zhongmin, a professor at the Middle East Studies Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"The conflict between the US and Israel and the Iran-led resistance front is intensifying, consequently elevating the risk of a direct confrontation between the US and Israel, and Iran," Liu said.

Although neither the US nor Iran desires to be drawn into a large-scale conflict or war, the current trajectory suggests an increasing risk of the US becoming further entangled in Middle Eastern conflicts, Liu noted.

The Palestinian issue remains at the core of the Middle East issue, touching on the peace and stability of the region and testing the moral conscience of humanity, Wang told the media.

China firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people in regaining their legitimate national rights and steadfastly supports the long-standing aspiration of the Palestinians to establish an independent state, he said.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has doubled down on opposition to an independent Palestinian state, deepening the division between Israel and its allies including the US, as US President Joe Biden said on Friday that he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for creating an independent Palestine state, according to media reports.

"Before a cease-fire in Gaza, it's impossible to launch any negotiations for a two-state solution. For Israel, the most urgent task now is to resolve the Gaza crisis," Liu said.

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Israeli regime's terrorism aimed at diverting attention from Gaza: Raisi

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi says the main reason behind continued terrorist acts by the Israeli regime is its failure to reach objectives in the war in Gaza.

Addressing a Cabinet session on Sunday, Raisi offered his condolences on the martyrdom of five Islamic Revolution Guards Corps officers in an Israeli attack in Syria a day earlier.

The Iranian president said the attack was a sign the Israeli regime has become helpless as a result of its defeat in the Gaza war.

"The Zionists commit such crimes in the hope they could divert public attention in the region and in the world from their unsuccessful crimes in Gaza," he said.

The IRGC said on Saturday that five of its officers, who had been serving in Syria in an advisory capacity, had been killed in an Israeli attack on a residential building in Damascus earlier in the day.

Iran has said it will definitely respond to the crime at the right time and place.

The attack came as the Israeli regime has killed more 25,000 Palestinians since it launched an aggression on Gaza in early October.

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Iraqi fighters hit US positions in Syria's east and northeast

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) has launched a new round of attacks on US military positions in Syria.

The IRI said in a statement late on Sunday that it had targeted a US military base in al khazra village near in Al-Omar oilfield in the suburbs of Deir ez-Zor in eastern Syria.

In another attack targeting US forces, the Iraqi fighters hit a military base in Ash Shaddadi area in Hasakah province in northeastern Syria.

Both attacks were carried out using drones.

The IRI includes several paramilitary groups recognized by the Iraqi government as a legitimate force in the country's fight against terrorism.

Those groups have launched almost daily attacks on US and Israeli interests in Iraq, Syria and in the Israeli-occupied territories since the Israeli regime launched its aggression on Gaza in early October.

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Iraqi resistance fighters attack Israeli target in Syria's Golan

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) has announced that it has launched an attack on a target controlled by the Israeli regime in Syria's Golan Heights.

The IRI said in a statement on Sunday that its fighters had used a drone to hit an Israeli regime position in the occupied Golan a day earlier.

The statement said the attack was to support the Palestinian people in Gaza and their resistance against the Israeli regime.

The IRI includes several paramilitary groups recognized by the Iraqi government as a legitimate force in the country's fight against terrorism.

Those groups have launched almost daily attacks on US and Israeli interests in Iraq, Syria and in the Israeli-occupied territories since the Israeli regime launched its aggression on Gaza in early October.

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Hezbollah hits positions of Israeli regime in fresh attacks

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has launched a new round of attacks on targets controlled by Israel as the group keeps up pressure on the regime to end its genocidal war on Gaza.

Hezbollah issued a statement on Sunday, saying its fighters had used appropriate precision weapons to hit the Branit military position in the north of the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.

The Al Jazeera news channel said the Israeli regime had responded by targeting a vehicle near an army checkpoint in the village of Kafra in southern Lebanon.

A report by Reuters news agency said that the Israeli attack on Kafra had killed two people and injured several others.

Hezbollah says it will continue attacks on Israel's military positions until the regime stops its aggression on Gaza that has killed more than 25,000 Palestinians since it started in early October.

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Gaza death toll surpasses 25,000: Health Ministry

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Health Ministry in Gaza has said that the death toll from the Israeli regime's genocidal war against the Palestinians in the besieged territory has surpassed 25,000.

The ministry, run by the Hamas resistance movement, said on Sunday that at least 25,105 people have been killed and 62, 681 others wounded in Gaza since October 7.

Most of the casualties have been women and children, it added.

The ministry said that 178 Palestinians had lost their lives over the past 24 hours as Israeli forces pushed their offensive in southern Gaza and renewed bombardment in the north.

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has reported that a staggering 1.9 million people, or over 80% of the population in Gaza, have been displaced across the enclave.

The Israeli regime waged its genocidal war against Gaza on October 7, after Hamas launched a surprise multi-pronged attack against the occupied territories, taking some 240 people including Israeli soldiers and settlers captive.

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FM says Ireland may join South Africa in ICJ genocide case against Israel

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Irish Foreign Minister Michael Martin has emphasized an immediate end to the barbaric crimes committed by the Zionist regime in Gaza, saying that his country may join a case by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against the Israeli genocide.

In a memo published by Irish Independent daily, Martin wrote that "every day we see images on TV and social media, which show terrible deaths of civilians including children, as well as mass displacement and destruction, and insufficient access by the United Nations and international institutions to provide vital humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza", IRNA reported on Saturday night.

The top Irish diplomat called those conditions unacceptable, saying that the Al-Aqsa Storm Operation "cannot justify the terrible impact of the Israeli military operation on civilians in Gaza."

He also said that the case brought by South Africa at the ICJ is based on the 1948 International Genocide Convention and follows deep concerns around the world about what is happening in Gaza.

The Irish foreign minister stated that the case should be followed with utmost seriousness because "genocide is the biggest crime against humanity."

The Hague-based ICJ began hearings on South Africa's genocide case against the Israeli regime on January 11.

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Israel uses phosphorus bombs in attacks on northern Gaza: Report

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli regime has reportedly used phosphorus bombs in its latest attacks on the northern Gaza Strip.

Israel used the banned weapons in its attacks on Jabalia refugee camp, setting fire to residential buildings there, according to a Sunday report by IRNA citing Gaza-based Sama News.

The regime also conducted artillery attacks on areas near Nasser Hospital in the city of Khan Yunis, south of the besieged strip.

Hospitals and their nearby areas, where displaced Palestinians are taking shelter, have been the main target of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza in the past several weeks.

In addition to causing huge civilian casualties, those airstrikes have caused the hospitals to stop fully functioning, resulting in a health crisis.

Israel launched its devastating war on Gaza on October 7, killing nearly 25,000 people so far, mostly women and children. It has also put curbs on entry of food, water and other basic supplies, deteriorating the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

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US soldiers suffer brain injuries in attack on Iraqi base

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

New York, IRNA -- US Central Command, CENTCOM, reported on Saturday brain injuries among its troops in a missile attack on the Ain al-Asad base in Iraq by a resistance group amid growing anti-American sentiment in the region over Washington's support for Israel's crimes against Palestinians.

CENTCOM issued a statement about the attack on the Ain al-Asad base located in western Iraq. "On January 20, around 18:30 Baghdad time, several ballistic missiles and rockets were fired towards the airbase".

"Most of the missiles were tracked by the air defense systems but some were hit the base and the damages are being assessed", the statement said, adding that some soldiers also suffered brain injuries and are currently undergoing examinations.

An American official was quoted by media that based on initial assessments a US soldier sustained minor injuries in the attack on the airbase while an Iraqi security member was severely injured.

The US command in West Asia was prompt in leveling accusation against Iran despite the fact that Ain al-Asad as well as several other US bases and facilities in Iraq and Syria have come under repeated missile and rocket attacks by Iraq's Islamic Resistance in recent months.

Western news agencies quoted a US military source and an Iraqi police official as saying that at least 12 missiles were fired at the military base in western Iraq.

In a statement, the Islamic Resistance of Iraq itself took responsibility for the attack and announced that it used a barrage of rockets to hit the US base.

Resistance groups in Iraq and elsewhere in the region have repeated warned the United States against it all-out support for the Israeli regime's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip. The Islamic Resistance had warned the United States that it would target American bases in the region in retaliation for its complicity in Israeli crimes against the Palestinians.

Iraqi resistance groups have targeted American bases in Iraq and Syria more than 100 times to make Americans realize that the cost of supporting the Israeli regime's massacre of the people in Gaza.

The Yemeni forces have also warned that they will continue military operations against Israeli or Israeli-linked ships and interests in the Red Sea until the regime stops its deadly aggression against Gaza.

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Military base near Yemen's Hudaydah airport attacked: Report

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- A Yemeni military source reported Saturday night an attack on a base near al-Hudaydah airport in the west of the country.

The source was cited as saying that two explosions hit the Al-Jabnah barracks near the airport but did not specify the cause of the incident.

Yemeni officials have yet released a report on this.

But US Central Command, CENTCOM, claimed on Saturday that as part of its efforts to protect shipping and prevent attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea, an airstrike was carried out against an anti-ship missile belonging to Yemen, off the Gulf of Aden.

Last month, the US president vowed to continue attacks on the Yemeni army and its allied Ansarullah Movement but admitted that the US and UK have so far failed to stop attacks on Israeli-bound ships in Red Sea despite attacks inside Yemen.

"When we say, will they stop the Houthis, the answer is no, and if we ask will they continue, the answer is yes" Joe Biden stated earlier this week.

The US and the UK have attacked Yemen multiple times recently after a UN security council resolution on the Red Sea but in violation of international laws in order to protect Israeli interest.

The US has also put Yemen's Ansarullah Movement back on its so-called "terrorism list", sparking condemnations over Washington's unilateral move in the region and beyond.

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Statement by PM Netanyahu

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

21.01.2024

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today:

"We are continuing the war on all fronts and in all sectors. We are not giving immunity to any terrorist: Not in Gaza, not in Lebanon, not in Syria and not anywhere. Whoever tries to harm us, we will harm him.

Regarding our hostages, we have returned home - as of today - 110 of our hostages and we are obligated to returning all of them. This is one of the goals of the war and the military pressure is a necessary condition to achieving it.

I am working on this around the clock. But let it be clear: I utterly reject the Hamas monsters' capitulation terms.

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 and leaving Hamas in place.

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.

The conditions being proposed by Hamas underscore a simple point - there is no substitute for victory. Only total victory will ensure the elimination of Hamas and the return of all our hostages.

I told President Biden this in our conversation over the weekend. I greatly appreciate the US support for Israel and I also expressed this to the President. However, I will strongly insist on our vital interests. I emphasized to President Biden our determination to achieve all of the goals of the war, and to ensure that Gaza never again constitutes a threat to Israel.

Therefore, I insist that after we achieve total victory, after we eliminate Hamas, there will no entity in Gaza that finances terrorism, educates for terrorism or sends terrorists.

Gaza must be demilitarized, under Israel's full security control.

I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River.

As Prime Minister of Israel, I have strongly upheld this position in the face of great international and domestic pressure.

My insistence is what has prevented - over the years - the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have constituted an existential danger to Israel. As long as I am Prime Minister, I will continue to strongly insist on this. If someone has a different position, they should show leadership and candidly state their position to the citizens of Israel."

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Security Cabinet Approves that Israel will not Transfer Funds to Gaza

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

21.01.2024

The Security Cabinet, today, approved the outline on freezing funds for Gaza, which was formulated by the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister and the Strategic Affairs Minister.

The US and Norway respect the Security Cabinet decision, which directs that the transfer of funds to Gaza by the Palestinian Authority be halted. Therefore, the frozen funds will not be transferred to the Palestinian Authority but will remain in the hands of a third country.

Neither the money nor its consideration will be transferred under any circumstances, including via a third party, but with the approval of the Israeli Finance Minister.

Any violation of the agreement will allow the Finance Minister to immediately freeze all Palestinian financial payments.

The US has guaranteed the outline's implementation.

The Prime Minister has directed that appropriate staff work be carried out to implement the outline according to law.

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Yemen warns against any violation of its sovereignty, act of aggression

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 11:56 PM

Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has warned the United States and its allies against any violation of the country's sovereignty amid the Yemeni Army's anti-Israeli operations in the Red Sea.

Ansarullah spokesman, Mohammed Abdulsalam, made the remarks in a statement on Sunday, cautioning the Western powers that Yemen will counter any acts of aggression.

"We affirm that Yemen will not allow any violation of its sovereignty, [and] will confront any aggression it faces," he said.

His comment came after the US and the UK conducted several missile attacks against Yemeni targets over the past month.

They claimed that the attacks were in response to strikes by Yemen's Armed Forces against Israeli vessels or those bound for ports in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Yemeni forces have also launched missile and drone attacks on targets controlled by the Israeli regime in the occupied territories in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, who have come under a genocidal US-backed war by the regime since October 7, 2023.

More than 25,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the Israeli military onslaught so far, while over 62,600 others have been injured.

Abdul-Salam said, "We affirm our support for Palestinian people by exerting pressure on Israel to stop its criminal aggression against Gaza."

Elsewhere in his remarks, he urged the United States to "stop evading responsibility for ending the aggression against Gaza."

As the Israeli regime's biggest ally, the US has provided Israel with unwavering military and political support during its onslaught on the coastal territory. It has armed the regime with more than 10,000 tons of military hardware, and has also vetoed all United Nations Security Council resolutions that called for cessation of the aggression.

"We appeal to all countries to stand alongside the Yemeni position, [and] not allow themselves to be victims of American deception," the Ansarullah official said.

He, meanwhile, reiterated that the targets of the Yemeni strikes in the Red Sea will continue to be "Israeli ships or those heading to occupied ports of Palestine."

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Hamas: Operation al-Aqsa Storm 'necessary step', normal response to Israeli conspiracies against Palestinians

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 10:18 PM

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has strongly defended as a necessary step its October 7, 2023 operation against the Israeli regime, which was followed by the regime's brutal onslaught against the Gaza Strip.

The movement made the comments in an official statement released in English and Arabic on Sunday.

It said the operation, dubbed al-Aqsa Storm, was a normal response to all Israeli conspiracies against the Palestinian people.

"Operation al-Aqsa Storm ... was a necessary step and a normal response to confront all Israeli conspiracies against the Palestinian people and their cause. It was a defensive act in the frame of getting rid of the Israeli occupation, [and] reclaiming the Palestinian rights...," Hamas said.

The movement added that Israel "has systematically destroyed every possibility to establish the Palestinian state through a wide campaign of settlement construction and Judaization of the Palestinian lands in the occupied West Bank" and the city of al-Quds.

The Israeli regime has built hundreds of settlements across those territories, and is constantly ratifying plans to expand such structures, which are illegal under international law due to their construction on an occupied territory. Backed by the regime's forces, illegal Israeli settlers also regularly invade the al-Aqsa Mosque Compound, Islam's third-holiest site, where it is forbidden to perform non-Muslim prayers or rituals based on longstanding international agreements.

The movement also referred to the history of Western and Western-backed acts of aggression against Palestinians, saying, "The battle of the Palestinian people against occupation and colonialism did not start on October 7, but started 105 years ago, including 30 years of British colonialism and 75 years of Zionist occupation."

Protecting civilian lives

Hamas added that Operation al-Aqsa Storm exclusively targeted Israeli military bases and every effort was made to capture only Israeli troops in order to free Palestinian prisoners held by the regime.

"Avoiding harm to civilians, especially children, women and elderly people is a religious and moral commitment by all the al-Qassam Brigades fighters. We reiterate that the Palestinian resistance was fully disciplined and committed to the Islamic values during the operation and that the Palestinian fighters only targeted the occupation soldiers and those who carried weapons against our people," Hamas said,

Emphasizing that "if there was any case of targeting civilians, it happened accidently and in the course of the confrontation with the occupation forces," the movement noted, "Many Israelis were killed by the Israeli army and police due to their confusion" as Operation al-Aqsa Storm led to "rapid collapse of the Israeli security and military system."

Blasting Israeli war

Elsewhere in the statement, the movement called for "the immediate halt to the Israeli aggression on Gaza, [as well as] the crimes and ethnic cleansing committed against the entire Gaza population" to allow the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

More than 25,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the Israeli military onslaught so far, while over 62,600 others have been injured.

The movement added that it wants to hold the Israeli regime "legally accountable for what it caused of human suffering towards the Palestinian people, and to charge it for the crimes against civilians, infrastructure, hospitals, educational facilities, mosques and churches."

"We tell these countries -- especially the US administration, Germany, Canada and the UK -- that if they really want justice to prevail as they claim, they ought to announce their support for the course of an investigation into all crimes committed in the occupied Palestine and to lend their full support to the international courts to effectively do their job," Hamas said.

Israel is currently facing a lawsuit filed by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the regime of committing genocide against the people of Gaza.

Mexico and Chile have also asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate Israel's genocidal war, citing the "escalation of violence against civilian targets."

'Gaza's future belongs to Gazans'

The movement, meanwhile, rejected any foreign efforts to decide Gaza's future.

"We categorically reject any international or Israeli projects aimed at deciding the future of Gaza that only serve to prolong the occupation. We stress that the Palestinian people have the capacity to decide their future and to arrange their internal affairs, and thus no party in the world has the right to impose any form of guardianship on the Palestinian people or decide on their behalf."

The Israeli regime and the United States, Tel Aviv's biggest ally, have come up with a number of so-called "post-war" plans for Gaza, suggesting that the territory might not be ruled by the resistance movement in the aftermath of the Israeli military aggression. Hamas and the international community have already rejected all such plans, saying the fate of Gaza only lies in the hands of its own people.

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Israeli army says another soldier killed, 3 injured in war on Gaza

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 6:51 PM

One Israeli soldier has been killed and three more injured during the regime's ongoing genocidal war against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Israeli military said that the 23-year-old reservist was killed in the south of the coastal sliver over the weekend. Three other soldiers were injured in the besieged Palestinian territory.

According to the regime, the latest fatality brings to at least 195 the number of Israeli troops killed on the ground in Gaza. However, Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says far more Israeli soldiers have been killed in fighting in Gaza.

Figures released by the Israeli army showed 531 soldiers have been killed since the outbreak of the war on Gaza on October 7.

Despite its deadly and destructive campaign in Gaza, Israel has so far failed to achieve its main goals in the onslaught, namely destroying Hamas and securing the release of its captives through military means.

Israel suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of the Palestinian nation and resistance as they managed to incapacitate the regime in its bloody war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

In an unexpected turn of events, Dan Halutz, former Israeli military chief last month hinted that Israel had lost the war against the Palestinian resistance groups in the besieged Gaza Strip.

War with Lebanon's Hezbollah would be 'difficult': Israeli general

Israeli Reserve Major-General Eyal Ben-Reuven in remarks to Israel's Maariv newspaper said on Sunday that Israel's political leadership should tell the public that the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah is stronger than Hamas and that a war with it would be "difficult".

He also spoke about the possibility of starting a war against Lebanon.

A US intelligence assessment earlier this month said that it would be difficult for Israel to succeed against the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah if the situation in the region escalated further.

The Israeli regime has over the past months carried out airstrikes on various locations in Lebanon and Syria as it attempts to expand hostilities against the Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip to other fronts.

Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem over the weekend warned Israel against waging an all-out war on Lebanon. He said the regime should expect a "strong slap in the face" if it underestimates Hezbollah's defensive capabilities.

Stressing that Hezbollah will continue its strikes against the Israeli-occupied territories as long as the Gaza campaign lingers on, the Hezbollah official said Israel was the enemy of Palestine, Lebanon, the Arab world and Muslims.

On the 107th day of the US-Israeli genocide in Gaza, the death toll has risen to more than 25,000, predominantly comprising women and children.

Israel's aggression has also displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza, which has been under near-total blockade since the beginning of the onslaught.

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Belgium to fully support South Africa's genocide case against Israel: Minister

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 4:41 PM

A Belgian minister has pledged her country's backing for the case filed by South Africa with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking to halt Israel's genocidal campaign in the besieged Gaza Strip.

Caroline Gennez, Belgium's minister of development cooperation, made the call in a series of social media posts over the weekend.

"If the International Court of Justice calls on #Israel to cease its military campaign in #Gaza, our country will fully support it." she said in a post on X on Sunday.

She noted that Belgium's position was a "step in the right direction."

"Our country is taking its responsibility, for human rights and humanitarian law. Meanwhile, I remain committed at all levels to making full humanitarian access to #Gaza a reality as soon as possible."

Belgian Deputy Prime Minister Petra De Sutter "also recently made a similar call and said her country could not remain silent against Israel's threat of genocide in Gaza and urged support for the lawsuit filed by South Africa."

"Belgium cannot just watch from the sidelines the endless suffering of the people in Gaza. We must act against the threat of genocide.

"I want Belgium to follow South Africa's lead and take action at the International Court of Justice. I will make this proposal to the Belgian government."

South Africa filed the lawsuit against Israel at the end of December, after nearly three months of Israeli aggression against Palestinians in Gaza.

The lawsuit said Israel's actions are "genocidal in character because they are intended to bring about the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial and ethnical group."

The application also said Israeli attacks breach the UN's Genocide Convention, and urged the court to "order Israel to cease killing and causing serious mental and bodily harm to Palestinian people in Gaza."

South Africa has been one of the outspoken critics of Israeli's ongoing onslaught against Palestinians and has led some initiatives to hold Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza.

In November, the country referred Israel to the International Criminal Court, which is already investigating the occupied Palestinian territories.

In the same month, the country's lawmakers voted in favor of closing down the Israeli embassy in Pretoria and suspending all diplomatic relations until the onslaught stops.

More countries have joined South Africa in a case filed against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the regime's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

Israel waged the war on Gaza on October 7 after Palestinian resistance groups of Hamas and Islamic Jihad carried out the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm into the occupied territories in response to the occupying regime's intensified crimes against the Palestinian people.

On the 107th day of the US-Israeli genocide in Gaza, the death toll rises to more than 25,000, predominantly comprising women and children.

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Raeisi: Iran supports South Africa's ICJ case against Israel

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 4:18 PM

Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi says Tehran supports South Africa's "smart and historic" move to file a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over crimes against the Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.

Raeisi made the remarks in a meeting with South Africa's new Ambassador to Tehran Francis Molloy on Sunday as he received his credentials.

"South Africa's move in complaining about the crimes of the Zionist regime (Israel) is a historic, lasting and commendable action and the Islamic Republic of Iran supports this smart and wise action."

Raeisi also hailed "very good and advancing" relations between the two countries and said no obstacle can hinder the promotion of ties.

The South African ambassador, for his part, vowed to take constructive steps to boost relations in order to serve the interests of the two nations and countries.

Nicaragua pursues 'humanitarian' stance on crimes of Israel

In a meeting with Ramon Alberto Moncada Colindres, the new ambassador of Nicaragua to Tehran, on Sunday, Raeisi said Nicaragua pursues a humanitarian and justice-seeking stance on international issues, including Israel's crimes against the Palestinian people.

"If other countries have had such a position, the Zionist regime (Israel) and its supporters would not have dared to commit such crimes against the oppressed but strong Palestinian people."

Raeisi underscored the importance of following up on the full implementation of the agreements reached between the two countries during his visit to Managua in June 2023.

Nicaragua's ambassador, for his part, said Tehran and Managua are making efforts to promote relations in various fields.

Cruel sanctions against Iran cannot hinder enhanced ties with Japan

In a meeting with Japanese new ambassador to Iran Toskada Tamaki on Sunday, Raeisi said Tehran plans to promote relations with Tokyo in various fields.

"Oppressive sanctions against the Islamic Republic should not and cannot create an obstacle in the path of the development of mutual relations as they have so far failed to bring any achievement for the United States," the president stated.

He said the US plays a role in every conflict in the world. "From the use of the atomic bomb against the Japanese people to today's crimes against the people of Gaza, the US plays a key role."

The Japanese ambassador submitted his credentials to the Iranian president and said the two countries enjoy close and deep relations.

Iran determined to boost relations with Europe

In a meeting with Belgium's Ambassador to Tehran Michel Malherbe, the president said Iran sets no limits to enhanced relations with countries based on mutual trust and respect.

Raeisi said the United States has lost its credibility and reputation in the world given its full support for Israel.

Raeisi urged European countries to pursue their interests and relations independently of the United States.

US, Israel, certain European states root cause of terrorism

In a meeting with Burkina Faso's new Ambassador to Tehran Mohammadi Kaboureh, the Iranian president said the United States, Israel and certain European countries, which claim to fight terrorism, are the root cause of terror and main sponsors of terrorist groups.

Raeisi added that Iran is willing to deepen cooperation with African countries, including Burkina Faso.

Cooperation, cohesion among Muslim countries could end crimes of Israel

In a meeting with the new ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Tehran, Nijaz Cardaklija, the Iranian president said cooperation and cohesion among Muslim countries could stop the crimes of Israel.

Pointing to arrogant powers' hostility towards the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Raeisi said in the absence of interference against Muslims, including the Palestinians, Muslims would have been able to have a peaceful coexistence.

Cardaklija, for his part, said his country calls for the expansion of relations and constructive cooperation with Iran.

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Israel will soon receive due response for its crimes: Yemen

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 3:34 PM

Yemen's Foreign Ministry said on Sunday that a swift response awaits the Israeli regime for its crimes in the region, a day after the regime killed five Iranian military advisors in Syria.

The ministry condemned the suspected Israeli attack on Saturday in the Syrian capital Damascus which targeted a building housing the personnel of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) who were serving in the Arab country in an advisory capacity.

"The response to crimes of the Zionist regime will soon take place," said the statement, reiterating support for Syria's right to defend its sovereignty against Israeli aggressions.

It called on the United Nations to commit to its responsibilities for protection of international peace and security while warning that the Israeli regime and its supporters will be responsible for any spread of the ongoing conflict in Palestine to other parts of the region.

While offering condolences to the Iranian nation and government, the statement described the attack on IRGC advisors in Syria as a cowardly move to relieve the Israeli regime of the pressure it is facing for its war in Gaza.

It said the attack will boost solidarity within the regional axis of resistance and will improve the struggle against the Israeli regime.

Yemen has been a major part of a campaign targeting US and Israeli interests in the region since the Gaza conflict began in early October.

The Yemenis have launched missile and drone attacks on targets controlled by the Israeli regime in the occupied Palestine while also launching attacks on Israeli-linked ships sailing in the Red Sea in an attempt to force the regime to end its carnage in Gaza.

The Yemenis announced earlier this month after attacks by the United States and United Kingdom on their soil that they would expand the scope of their attacks in the Red Sea to cover ships linked to the US and the UK.

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Gaza deaths exceed 25,000 as Israel pushes offensive

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 2:37 PM

The Palestinian Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip has announced that the death toll from Israel's aggression against the besieged coastal territory has surpassed 25,000, as the occupying regime's war rages on into a fourth month.

The ministry made the remarks in a statement on Sunday, saying Israel's relentless bombardment and ground offensive have killed at least 25,105 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, since the start of the aggression.

Earlier in the day, witnesses said Israeli boats had bombarded Gaza City and other areas in the northern part of the blockaded territory.

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas also reported heavy combat in the north.

The Government Media Office in Gaza also noted that Israel's continued artillery shelling on the southern city of Khan Yunis, the Tal Al-Zaatar area of Gaza, and the north has made it impossible to transfer the dead and injured to the hospitals, adding that "Dozens are still under the rubble."

The Israeli military claimed it had "eliminated a number of militants" in Khan Yunis and killed 15 fighters in northern Gaza over the past day.

The Israeli regime waged the war on Gaza on October 7 after Hamas carried out the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity in response to the Israeli regime's atrocities against Palestinians.

More than 100 days into the campaign, the regime has achieved no objectives despite killing more than 25,000 people.

The Tel Aviv regime has also imposed a "complete siege" on the territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

UN agencies have warned better aid access is needed urgently as famine and disease loom.

West Bank raid

Meanwhile, the Israeli military says it has demolished two Palestinian-owned houses in the southern West Bank city of al-Khalil, as violence surges in the occupied territories.

The military claimed that the houses belonged to two Palestinian gunmen who attacked a road between al-Quds and Bethlehem in November.

Palestine's official Wafa news agency also reported clashes between Israeli troops and Palestinians in a village south of the West Bank city of Jenin as well as the towns of Aroura and Qalqilya.

Israeli forces have recently been conducting overnight raids and killings in the northern occupied West Bank, mainly in the cities of Jenin and Nablus, where new groups of Palestinian resistance fighters have been formed.

Israel has intensified its attacks against Palestinians throughout the West Bank since October 7, when it launched a devastating war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

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Israel collapsing at all levels, committing gravest crimes against humanity: Hamas

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 10:43 AM

A senior member of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says the Israel is collapsing at all levels as the regime is committing the most egregious crimes against humanity.

Ghazi Hamad, a member of Hamas' political bureau, made the statement on Sunday as he pointed to the latest developments regarding Israel's genocidal war against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.

"The Zionist regime is collapsing by committing the biggest crimes against humanity at the internal, social, military and political levels and, today, has been brought to international courts," Hamad said, referring to lawsuits lodged by South Africa and Indonesia at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the regime's rights violations in the Gaza war.

"Now, this opportunity has been provided for all Palestinian groups to adopt a firm stance and force the international community to reclaim the rights of our nation."

Hamad also praised South Africa for its "great" position at the Hague-based tribunal and said the move will "go down in history."

Stressing that the Israeli regime aims to impose a political solution on Palestinians, the Hamas official said the resistance movement has robust means to confront the occupying entity.

"We will not accept that they once again lie to the Palestinian people, the Zionist regime cannot impose a political solution on us," Hamad said, adding, "We have very strong pressure levers and the facilities to deal with the enemy. Anyone who follows the Zionist enemy's news will see that there is confusion and disputes among the heads of the Israeli regime."

Isaac Herzog, the Israeli regime's president, was targeted by Swiss prosecutors on Friday over the Zionist forces' genocidal war on the defenseless Palestinians in the besieged territory.

The Federal Prosecutor's Office (BA) said Herzog was handed criminal charges during his visit to Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum's annual meeting.

Israel waged the war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance groups of Hamas and Islamic Jihad conducted the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm into the occupied territories in response to the occupying regime's intensified crimes 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 Tel Aviv regime has also imposed a "complete siege" on the territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

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Israel's war aims elusive as Hamas still resilient, musters enough munitions: US intel agencies

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 9:52 AM

US intelligence agencies estimate that the death toll among Hamas fighters from Israel's ongoing aggression against the Gaza Strip falls short of the regime's goal of eliminating the Palestinian resistance group.

In a classified report, the spy agencies highlighted Hamas' resilience over the past months, saying the Israeli war has killed 20 to 30 percent of members of the resistance movement, the Wall Street Journal says.

"Hamas still has enough munitions to continue striking Israel and Israeli forces in Gaza for months, and that the group is attempting to reconstitute its police force in parts of Gaza City," said US officials who confirmed the report.

Israeli officials have conceded that they have not achieved their goal of obliterating Hamas despite killing thousands of civilians in the aggressive air and ground campaign on Gaza, the report added.

It also cited military analysts as referring to adjusted tactics by Hamas fighters, saying they are operating in smaller groups and hiding between ambushes on Israeli troops, while individual fighters are likely taking on more tasks to pick up the slack from their martyred comrades.

Israel waged the genocidal war on besieged Gaza on October 7 after Hamas carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Storm in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

However, more than three months into the offensive, the usurping regime seems stuck in the Gaza quagmire despite killing 25,105 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring more than 62,000 others.

The report said that US officials have begun to scale down their expectations for the Gaza war and that they have urged Israel to shift toward more targeted operations aimed at Hamas' leadership.

Hamas can still fight despite casualties

The US estimated that Hamas had between 25,000 and 30,000 fighters before the Gaza offensive in addition to thousands of police and other forces, according to the report.

The Israeli military estimated that it has killed about 9,000 out of at least 30,000 Hamas fighters in Gaza with over 1,000 during the October 7 attack, amounting to about 30 percent of the resistance group's total fighting force.

Citing a senior Israeli military official, the report said as many as 16,000 Hamas fighters have been wounded and about half of those will not return to the battlefield.

It further noted that the US estimates between 10,500 and 11,700 resistance fighters have been injured, many of those could eventually return to the battle ground.

In US military doctrine, a conventional force that loses 25%-30% of its fighters would be considered combat-ineffective. But Hamas is an irregular force fighting a defensive war in a dense urban environment and has access to hundreds of miles of tunnels under Gaza.

It has shown that it can still fight, said retired Army General Joseph Votel, who commanded US military operations in the Middle East.

Recently, the Israeli military withdraw thousands of forces from the Gaza Strip in the first significant troop pullback since the devastating war began.

An Israeli military officer said Hamas authorities have returned to Gaza City, including to areas previously held by the regime's army.

"It's only a matter of time if Israel will not be boots on the ground in these places and that they will also bring back the military wing," said Michael Milshtein, a former head of Palestinian affairs for Israeli military intelligence.

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Jan. 20: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 8:45 AM

By Press TV Website Staff

Resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against Israel and its Western backers amid the regime's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip, which has claimed the lives of nearly 25,000 Palestinians, mostly children and women.

The operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Saturday, January 20, are as follows:

Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on Jan. 20:

Engages in fierce battles at point-blank range with Israeli forces east of Jabalia in northern Gaza

Shelled Israeli military concentrations, north and south of Khan Yunis, using mortars.

Targeted Israeli military concentrations northeast of Bureij camp in central Gaza with heavy-caliber mortars.

Al-Quds Brigades' operations on Jan. 20:

Shot dead an Israeli soldier south of Gaza City.

Engaged in clashes with Israeli forces using machine guns on the fronts of Maghazi and Bureij camps in central Gaza.

Targeted a Merkava tank with a "Tandem" rocket in the northern axis of Nuseirat camp.

Clashed with Israeli forces using machine guns and appropriate weapons, east and south of Khan Yunis.

Ambushed Israeli forces with explosive devices, leading to the destruction of military vehicles, and resulting in casualties.

Shelled Israeli soldiers' gathering in the area east of Khan Yunis with a barrage of 60mm mortars.

Targeted military concentration used for command and control near the Martyrs' Mosque in the south of Khan Yunis.

Mujahideen Brigades' operations on Jan. 20:

Engaged in clashes with Israeli enemy forces using appropriate weapons east of Khan Yunis.

Hezbollah's operations on Jan. 20:

Eastern sector:

At 10:25, a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the vicinity of Hunin Castle was targeted with missiles.

Western sector:

At 9:40, a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers was targeted in the vicinity of the Al-Dhahira site with appropriate weapons.

At 11:55, a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers was targeted in the vicinity of the Zarit barracks with appropriate weapons.

Iraqi resistance's operations on Jan. 20:

Attacked the US occupation military base Ain al-Asad base in western Iraq.

Launched another bigger attack on the US occupation military base Ain al-Asad in Iraq with a barrage of rockets and missiles, causing large-scale damage and casualties.

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Jan. 19: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 8:27 AM

By Press TV Website Staff

Resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against Israel and its Western backers amid the regime's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip, which has claimed the lives of nearly 25,000 Palestinians, mostly children and women.

The operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Friday, January 19, are as follows:

Qassam Brigades' operations on Jan. 19:

Shot dead two Israeli soldiers with a Qassam "Ghoul" rifle east of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip

Targeted a Merkava tank with two soldiers next to it using an "Al-Yassin 105" shell, which led to its complete destruction and the killing of the two soldiers.

Destroyed three Merkavas with "Shuath" explosive devices, east of Khan Yunis.

Targeted an Israeli military vehicle with an RPG shell south of Al-Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City.

Targeted a special Israeli force unit holed up inside a building with an anti-fortified TBG shell, killing and wounding its members, and targeted a tank that had come to support the force with an "Al-Yassin 105" shell south of Al-Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City.

Targeted a building in which a number of Israeli soldiers were barricaded with an anti-personnel shell, and opened fire on a soldier near the building, injuring him directly in Sheikh Radwan neighborhood in Gaza City.

Targeted a building in which special Israeli forces were holed up with four RPG shells and clashed with them with machine guns southwest of Gaza City.

Targeted an Israeli military tank southwest of Gaza City with an "Al-Yassin 105" shell.

Targeted a Merkava tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell northeast of Al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip.

Sniped an Israeli soldier with a Qassam "Ghoul" rifle northeast of the Al-Bureij refugee camp.

Targeted concentrations of Israeli regime forces penetrating northeast of Al-Bureij Camp with mortar shells.

Targeted a special Israeli force with an anti-personnel explosive device, "Ra'adiya," clashed with it, and detonated a "Shuath" device among another force, causing deaths and injuries in the Al-Salam area, east of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip.

Sniped an Israeli soldier in the Sheikh Ajlin neighborhood, southwest of Gaza City.

Lured a special Israeli force to a tunnel entrance and blew it up, causing direct hits, east of the Al-Tuffah neighborhood in Gaza City.

Hezbollah's operations on Jan. 19:

Eastern sector:

At around 15:15 local time, a deployment of Israeli soldiers between the Summaqa and Ramtha sites in Shebaa was targeted with a Burkan missile.

At around 16:00 local time, a gathering of Israeli soldiers in Jabal Nadhar was targeted with missiles.

Eastern sector:

At around 16:15 local time, a deployment of Israeli soldiers in the vicinity of the Khirbet Ma'ar base was targeted with a Burkan missile.

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US personnel evaluated for 'traumatic brain injuries' after Iraq's airbase attack: CENTCOM

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 6:21 AM

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has said "a number of American personnel were undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries" after massive missile strike by Iraqi anti-terror groups on Ain al-Asad airbase.

CENTCOM confirmed in a statement that the airbase in western province of Anbar was targeted by "multiple ballistic missiles and rockets," but declined to provide details on the extent of injuries.

Earlier, Iraqi reports said a barrage of forty missiles targeted the airbase on Saturday evening.

Meanwhile, citing an unnamed US official, the Reuters news agency said on Sunday that the American military personnel targeted in the rocket attack suffered what was described as "minor" injuries.

The official added that a member of Iraq's security forces was also wounded in the attack on Ain al-Asad airbase, which houses US occupation forces in Iraq's Anbar Province.

In a statement on its Telegram channel, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of anti-terror Iraqi armed groups, claimed responsibility for the attack on the Ain al-Asad airbase on Saturday evening.

Stressing that the base was targeted by a large number of missiles and rockets "directly hit their targets," the statement said the large-scale rocket attack was carried out in retaliation for unflinching US support of Israel's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

Since mid-October, Iraqi resistance forces have carried out dozens of strikes on the US military facilities in both Iraq and Syria amid growing anti-US sentiments in the region over Washington's backing of Israel's incessant bombardment campaign on Gaza.

Israel waged the war on Gaza on October 7 after the Palestinian resistance groups of Hamas and Islamic Jihad conducted the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm into the occupied territories in response to the occupying regime's intensified crimes against the Palestinian people.

Since the start of the aggression, Israel has killed more than 24,900 Palestinians, mostly women and children.

The Tel Aviv regime has also imposed a "complete siege" on the territory, cutting off fuel, electricity, food, and water to the more than two million Palestinians living there.

The United States has supplied Israel with weapons and intelligence support, and blocked UN resolutions calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Palestinian territory.

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Bhutan 'open for business' as voters choose former PM Tobgay to rebuild economy

Harvard-educated conservation advocate, who served as Bhutan's prime minister between 2013 and 2018, was returned amid economic troubles.

By Tenzin Pema for RFA Tibetan 2024.01.21 -- "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 Tobgay's 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 nation's two neighbors, India and Tibet, amidst ongoing border negotiations with China.

The victory by Harvard-educated conservation advocate Tobgay, 58 - who served as Bhutan's 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.

Tobgay's People's 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 Bhutan's fourth general elections since its 2008 transition from an from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy, with a bicameral elected parliament.

Bhutan's 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 country's leaders have promoted and the model -- which emphasizes good governance, sustainable development, cultural preservation and promotion, and environmental conservation -- widely regarded as Bhutan's 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, Bhutan's former chief election commissioner, who set up and ran the country's 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 nation's 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 party's 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 Bhutan's hydropower and renewable energy generation, while bolstering the country's private sector through the establishment of special economic zones and the privatization and divestmens of state-owned enterprises to boost capital markets.

Tobgay's office did not immediately respond to Radio Free Asia's request for comment on his program.

Tobgay's 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 that's 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.

"There's 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 Bhutan's 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 India's special relationship with Bhutan, it is important for India to make sure that (any border) agreement (with China) does not strategically damage India's interest," said Manoj Kewalramani, chairperson of the Indo-Pacific Studies Programme at the Takshshila Institute in India.

"That's largely what India's 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.

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 Bhutan's 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-China's 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.

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.

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Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's response to a media question on the decision by the Government of Germany to intervene as a third party in the case brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice

21 January 2024 09:58

66-21-01-2024

Question: What would be your comment regarding the statement released by the Government of Germany on its intention to take a stand against the Republic of South Africa which has instituted proceedings at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of perpetrating genocide against the Arab population in Gaza Strip?

Maria Zakharova: We were not surprised by the German Government's decision to oppose the Republic of South Africa which has filed a case with the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of subjecting people in Gaza to genocide. This move was predicated on the unfettered support Berlin has always lent to Israel while dismissing any possible consequences. Germany has been asserting its unwavering commitment to this policy for quite a long time as one of the main unspoken tenets of the so-called rules-based order as defined by Washington.

By acting this way, German political elites seem to have caused Israel more harm than good. In the corresponding Government statement, Berlin used language which reads: "in view of Germany's history and the crime against humanity of the Shoah" - thereby positioning itself as an expert in committing mass atrocities and exterminating people.

What about the crimes against humanity perpetrated by Germany against other nations, ethnic groups and peoples during World War II?

It seems that Germany has once again forgotten that under UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/60/7 and several other international instruments, the Holocaust is defined as the persecution and mass extermination of people representing various ethnic and social groups by the Nazis. There is also the OSCE's Berlin Declaration setting forth the need to promote the importance of respecting all ethnic and religious groups without any distinction.

There have been many historical precedents of criminals perpetrating serious crimes but then mending their ways and using their knowledge about their unlawful practices to prevent similar wrongdoing from happening again. However, this always required effective regret and repentance and an unconditional recognition of one's guilt without making even the slightest attempt to justify one's crimes, let alone repeat them.

We can see that Germany has chosen a different path in dealing with its past. Just like 80 years ago, Berlin has once again opted for dividing people on ethnic grounds, albeit on a new, more sophisticated level.

Let me give you several examples. Berlin has persistently refused to pay compensation to people of non-Jewish background who lived in Leningrad during the siege. It believes that Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, Finno-Ugric people, Armenians, Georgians, Moldovans and many others are not entitled to receive money from the German Government. We spoke out publicly many times to awake the international opinion to this new kind of racial segregation, which is an outrageous fact. Leningrad suffered a tragedy with the city having to endure this terrible siege for over 800 days - we will be marking 80 years since its lifting on January 27. Together with the decisions adopted at the Wannsee Conference and the creation of death camps in Europe, it constitutes an important piece of evidence regarding the inhuman intentions nurtured by Nazi Germany and its allies. The German authorities opted for undermining Russia's efforts to prevent the rehabilitation of Nazism. Even before that, Germany regularly abstained when the UN General Assembly voted on the resolution, sponsored by Russia, on combating the glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. Moreover, Germany has been voting against this resolution since 2022, which amounts to contesting its provisions on stopping the renewed effort to glorify the Nazi movement and whitewash former SS members, including from Waffen SS, who were recognised as criminals by the Nuremberg Trials.

Germany has surpassed other countries in the European Union in zealously defending the Kiev regime which has made the glorification of Nazi accomplices a key domestic and foreign policy tenet.

Berlin supports fighters holding neo-Nazi torch processions and glorifying World War II-era war criminals who have been borrowing their chevrons and stripes from SS divisions and decorating their military vehicles and gear with Wehrmacht's symbols. These people seek to kill ethnic Russians, Russian nationals and Russian speakers, but Berlin has been sponsoring and arming them, offering them medical services and backing them on the international stage.

We have been witnessing an increase in the number of statements by German officials lately questioning whether Berlin should condemn its Nazi past. Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz publicly said that Germany and Ukraine's neo-Nazi regime were "on the right side of history," which de facto amounted to exonerating Vladimir Zelensky's human-hating regime in its current iteration as it seeks to reincarnate World War II-era Nazi accomplices and erase the memory of those who fought against fascism. Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock proudly spoke about her forefathers falling during the siege of Konigsberg. This is the way the German ruling elite understands what it means to be on the right side of history these days.

Berlin persists in its refusal to recognise Nazi crimes against our people as genocide. Russian investigative bodies and courts have compiled a wide body of evidence exposing war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide by the Third Reich troops across various regions of our country.

On July 25, 2022, the Krasnodar Territorial Court ruled that Nazi invaders perpetrated an act of genocide in the occupied portions of the Krasnodar Territory between July 1942 and August 1943. During that period, Germans and the occupying powers, as well as their accomplices, intentionally carried out the mass extermination of over 48,000 civilians, including 9,000 children, who were either shot, tortured to death, hanged, poisoned by gas or burnt alive, or killed using a network of concentration camps in Kuban.

On October 10, 2022, the Leningrad Regional Court recognised crimes perpetrated by Nazi invaders within the region during the Great Patriotic War as genocide. The court ruled that between 1941 and 1944, the German occupying force intentionally exterminated over 33,000 civilians.

On October 20, 2022, the St Petersburg City Court issued an opinion recognising the siege of Leningrad as an act of genocide against the Soviet people. The hearings held by this court established that at least 1,093,842 people died during the siege.

It must be recalled that only 14 million Slaves were to remain on the former territory of the USSR conquered and populated by Germany under Generalplan Ost - Master Plan for the East drafted under the Reich Fuhrer Heinrich Himmler's supervision. Its provisions can be found in Doctor Erhard Wetzel's document titled Observations and Proposals regarding Generalplan Ost, dated April 27, 1942. Under the plan, these Slaves were to be controlled by 4.5 million Germans, while those viewed as undesirable in racial terms among locals were to be sent to Western Siberia. The deportation proposal revolved around the number of 31 million people slated for resettlement. It provided for weakening the Russian nation in ethnic and biological terms by undertaking a series of actions to reduce the birth rate.

We believe that these and other similar and multiple examples constitute a sufficient body of evidence for Germany to officially recognise as genocide the crimes committed by the third Reich against our country.

All this leads to the conclusion that in the context of the ongoing proceedings at the International Court of Justice, Berlin decided to single out the Holocaust issue by setting it apart from all other aspects of its guilty historical acts against humanity. Moreover, it refuses to view it in a holistic manner. Instead, Berlin adjusts its perspective as it deems fit to suit its momentary considerations.

As for the Middle East, the Olaf Scholz Government could have refrained from taking this initiative, considering not only domestic politics, but also the outrage the collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza has been causing around the world, especially in the countries of the Global South. We have already heard officials condemn this flawed approach at the highest level. President of Namibia Hage Geingob called on Germany not to take any actions on this extremely sensitive issue, since Germany itself has yet to undo the damage caused by the crimes against humanity it perpetrated in Africa. This refers to what happened in 1904-1908 when the German South West African administration exterminated tens of thousands of people belonging to Herero and Nama ethnic groups. Namibia views these events as an act of genocide against its indigenous people.

It is shocking and appalling that the German authorities do not see any cause for remorse in connection with the main crimes perpetrated by the Third Reich on a massive scale, including the killing of 27 million citizens of the USSR. On the contrary, Berlin has once again mired itself in exterminating people in a part of Europe where 80 years ago Hitler failed in his effort to exterminate or subdue people.

This raises the question of whether Germany was sincere in its repentance before and whether its de-Nazification was effective.

We believe the behaviour by Germany's current administration to be unacceptable, unlawful and immoral. That said, the ongoing revival of German militarism and the fact that it approves of neo-Nazi practices constitutes the most alarming trend. Considering Germany's conflicting historical track record, this trend can have an extremely grave impact on the future of Germany, as well as Europe and the entire world.

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EU Mulls 'Consequences' for Netanyahu's Rejection of Palestinian Statehood - Reports

Sputnik News

20240121

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The EU foreign ministers gathering in Brussels on Monday will discuss "consequences" for Israel that are intended to persuade Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to drop his opposition to Palestinian statehood, media reported.

A document circulated by Brussels to member states ahead of the meeting suggests that they should "set out the consequences they envisage to attach to engagement or non-engagement" with the EU's Middle East peace plan, the Financial Times reported.

Asked about the nature of those consequences, a senior EU official cited preferential trade and investment benefits that the European Union currently offers Israel under their association pact.

Netanyahu has frustrated his allies in Europe and the United States by repeatedly rejecting the so-called two-state solution that seeks to create an independent Palestinian state in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. He took to social media on Saturday to reiterate that Israel needed to have full security control over the territories west of the Jordan River, which he said ruled out Palestinian sovereignty.

The EU reportedly plans to put forward a 10-point peace roadmap and will seek the support of the United States and the Arab world. The initiative, parts of which were quoted by Euractiv on Saturday, outlines a series of steps leading to Israeli and Palestinian states "living side by side" as well as "robust security guarantees" for both nations and a "full normalization" of ties between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

 Sputnik

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NATO's Steadfast Defender Drills Raise Risks of Inadvertent Escalation - Moscow

Sputnik News

20240121

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - 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.

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. NATO's 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."

 Sputnik

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UK Defense Minister Calls Netanyahu's Rejection of Palestinian Sovereignty 'Disappointing'

Sputnik News

20240121

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - 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.

"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.

 Sputnik

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Death Toll From Israeli Strikes on Gaza Strip Tops 25,000

Sputnik News

20240121

CAIRO (Sputnik) - 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.

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.

 Sputnik

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Scale of Steadfast Defender Drills Marks Return of NATO to Cold War-Era Patterns - Moscow

Sputnik News

20240121

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The scale of NATO exercises Steadfast Defender-2024 marks the final and irrevocable return of the alliance to the Cold War schemes to oppose Russia, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Sputnik.

On Thursday, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander in Europe Gen. Christopher Cavoli said that the alliance would begin Steadfast Defender-2024, "the largest NATO exercise in decades," next week. About 90,000 servicepeople will be involved in the drills, he added.

"These exercises are another element of the hybrid war unleashed by the West against Russia. The exercises of such scale - 90,000 servicepeople with the participation of 31 countries - mark the final and irrevocable return of NATO to the Cold War support schemes, when the military planning process, resources and infrastructure are being prepared for confrontation with Russia," Grushko said.

He also noted that the preparation for the exercises "takes place in an artificially heated atmosphere of military psychosis."

"Irresponsible statements about a possible war with Russia, for which European citizens 'should prepare,' were made by the German defense minister, the Swedish commander-in-chief and the chairman of the NATO Military Committee. The goal is clear: by demonizing Russia, intimidating the average person, to justify the unbridled increase in military spending and the completely failed policy of supporting the Kiev regime with the aim of inflicting a strategic defeat on Russia. And at the same time, force the Europeans to join the arms race even more energetically, to the delight of the American military-industrial complex," Grushko said.

 Sputnik

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White House Taking Iran-Backed Attacks on Its Iraq-Based Forces 'Extremely Seriously'

By VOA News January 21, 2024

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.

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Netanyahu Rejects Hamas' Call to End Gaza War

By VOA News January 21, 2024

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposal Sunday by Hamas militants to end the war in Gaza that now is in its fourth month.

"In exchange for the release of our hostages," the Israeli leader said in a statement, "Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists. And leaving Hamas intact." "I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," Netanyahu said.

Hamas on Sunday defended its October 7 terror attack on Israel but admitted to "faults" and called for an end to "Israeli aggression" in Gaza.

In its first public report on the attack that began the war, the militant group said it was a "necessary step" against Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, and a way to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners.

In late November, in a deal brokered by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, more than 100 of the estimated 240 hostages who were taken captive to Gaza during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, were freed in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

Since that deal ended, Netanyahu has faced mounting pressure from within Israel and from some world leaders to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in captivity, perhaps two dozen of whom have died or been killed.

Some world leaders, but not U.S. President Joe Biden, have called for an immediate cease-fire in the fighting. About 1,200 Israelis were killed in the initial attack, and, according to Hamas health officials, more than 25,000 in Gaza during Israel's counteroffensive, including civilians and militants.

Netanyahu in recent days has also taken a strong position against Palestinian statehood to stabilize the volatile Mideast and prevent the spread of the Israel-Hamas war throughout the region. Biden and other American officials have called for Palestinian statehood.

"I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said.

Biden on Friday said he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for the creation of an independent Palestinian state that could include a nonmilitarized government.

Netanyahu said that he has faced down "international and internal pressures" to change his position on Palestinian statehood.

"My insistence is what prevented for years the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have posed an existential danger to Israel," Netanyahu said.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News Sunday that it is "disappointing" to hear of Netanyahu's opposition to a Palestinian state at the end of the Israel-Hamas war.

"Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really don't see that there is another solution," Shapps said.

Discussing his administration's position Friday, Biden said, "There are a number of types of two-state solutions." Asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, "No, it's not."

Biden said he had spoken with Netanyahu on Friday, the first call the White House had in nearly a month with the Israeli leader.

Netanyahu'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."

Netanyahu is increasingly facing 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 Israel's 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., Israel's 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.

The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry said Sunday the Gaza death toll is at 25,102, with about 70% of the victims being women and children. Health officials said 62,681 people have been wounded.

In the past 24 hours, the ministry said 178 Palestinians have been killed and 293 injured.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Palestinian Death Toll in Gaza Passes 25,000, Health Ministry Says

By VOA News January 21, 2024

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 Netanyahu's opposition to a Palestinian state at the end of the Israel-Hamas war.

"Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really don't 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 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 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 Israel's 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., Israel's 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 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.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Israeli army shells southern Lebanon again: Source

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 22, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli military has reportedly carried out yet another artillery attack in southern Lebanon amid heightened tensions between the Lebanese Resistance Movement Hezbollah and the Zionist regime.

Sama news agency has quoted a Lebanese source as saying that the Israeli artillery shells the towns of Belida and Meiss al-Jabal in southern Lebanon.

The reported attack comes a day after a member of Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah was killed in an Israeli drone attack targeting a car in southern Lebanon. A high ranking official from the resistance group said to have survived the strike.

On early Sunday, Israeli warplanes also fired missiles and rockets at the towns of al-Adisa, Misra, and Aabbassiyeh, located in the south of Lebanon.

Last week, Hezbollah also launched new strikes on northern parts of the occupied territories, firing a barrage of missiles at Western Galilee where sirens were sounded. The group also targeted gatherings of Israeli soldiers near the outposts of Al-Abad and al-Raheb.

The two sides have kept exchanging artillery fire and rockets since Israel launched its genocidal war on Gaza in early October. The Lebanese movement says attacks on Israel will stop only if the regime ends its onslaught on Palestinians.

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Yemen's Ansarullah warns regional states against US deception

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 22, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Spokesman for Yemen's Ansarullah Movement, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, has called on countries in West Asia not allow their government and people to be the victims of US deception.

Abdul-Salam cautioned the regional countries about the false claims being propagated by the US administration against Yemen's actions in the Red Sea.

"We target Israeli ships or ships heading to ports in occupied Palestine in support of the Palestinian nation and in order to put pressure on the apartheid Zionist regime to end its attacks on Gaza", Abdul-Salam emphasized on his official telegram page.

He underlined that America should also stop running away from its responsibility for stopping Israel's genocidal war on Gaza.

"We once again make it clear that Yemen adheres to the principle of self-defense, will never allow the violation of our country's sovereignty and will never turn a blind eye to any aggression against Yemen", the Ansarullah spokesman said with reference to a series aerial attacks carried by the US and Britain on Yemen under the pretext of the Arab country's actions in the Red Sea.

He said that the US is trying to divert public opinion from the current events in the Red Sea, adding that Yemen will keep targeting Israeli ships or other vessels heading to occupied Palestinian ports.

Ansarullah has categorically censured the Israeli aggression against the besieged territory that has claimed tens of thousands of innocent lives and "destroyed everything in Gaza."

During the past weeks, the Yemeni army has targeted over two dozen Israeli-bound commercial vessels and oil tankers in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab strait in support of the Palestinians in Gaza. The Yemeni army has already defied US threats, saying such attack will continue as long as the Zionist regime keeps spilling the blood of the Palestinians.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 21 January 2024 - Day 696

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 on 19 January 2024 the Ukrainian General Staff reported that there was a 27 per cent increase in Russian assaults onthe front line over the previous day with 81 air strikes and 45 multiple rocket attacks.

Additional data from the Ukrainian General Staff comparing the 14-18 January 2024 period with the previous five-day period supports this uptick in Russian assaults. Over these five-day periods the number of military vehicle losses by Russia increased by 88 percent and the number of Russian tank losses increased by 95 per cent. The number of Russian casualties overthe same period also increased by 15 per cent.

This data points towards a steady increase in the intensity of Russian offensive activity across the front over the past two weeks. A key enabler for this is highly likely the freezing ground conditions, which allows cross-country movement of armoured vehicles.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of January 21, there were 59x combat engagements. Russian forces launched a total of 4x missile and 69x air strikes, carried out 50x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and injuries. Private residential buildings 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: Russian 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 air strikes near Hrafske, Vovchans'k, Mykolaivka (Kharkiv oblast). Around 25x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Klyusy (Chernihiv oblast), Marchykhyna Buda, Fotovyzh, Atyns'ke, Pavlivka, Kostyantynivka, Sadky (Sumy oblast), Udy, Kozacha Lopan', Ohirtseve, Vovchans'k, Budarky, Kolodyazne (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 7x assaults in the vicinity of Syn'kivka (Kharkiv oblast). In that area Russian forces made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. The Russian invaders launched air strikes in the vicinities of Ivanivka, Kyslivka, Tabaivka, Pishchane (Kharkiv oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Dvorichna, Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka, Ivanivka, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast).

Lyman axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 4x assaults near Terny, Yampolivka (Donetsk oblast), and 6x attacks near Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), where Russian forces made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces launched air strikes in the area of Serebryans'ke forestry (Luhansk oblast) and in the vicinities of Yampolivka, Hryhorivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Karmazynivka, Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Tors'ke, Dibrova, Serebryanka, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 5x attacks in the vicinities of Bohdanivka, Ivanivske and Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast), where the Russian occupiers made unsuccessful attempts to improve their tactical situation. Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Min'kivka, Bohdanivka, Chasiv Yar, Kostyantynivka, Toretsk, New York (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Vasyukivka, Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, Andriivka, New York (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 5x Russian attacks near Novobakhmutivka, Stepove, Avdiivka, and 9x more attacks south of Sjeverne, Pervomais'ke and Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast). In that area, Russian forces made unsuccessful attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces launched air strikes near the settlements of Lastochkyne and Avdiivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Novobakhmutivka, Berdychi, Avdiivka, Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast).

Mar'inka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold back Russian forces in the vicinities of Heorhiivka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). In that area, Russian forces made 3x failed attempts to improve its tactical situation. Russian forces launched air strikes near the settlements of Staromaiors'ke and Rivnopil' (Donetsk oblast). The settlements of Maksymil'yanivka, Heorhiivka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka were under artillery and mortar fire of the occupiers.

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces conducted no offensives. Russian forces launched air strikes in the vicinities of Novomykhailivka and Kostyantynivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at the settlements of Bohoyavlenka, Staromaiors'ke, Zelene Pole (Donetsk oblast).

Zaporizhzhia axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 4x assaults west of Verbove and Robotyne (Zaporizhzhia oblast), where Russian forces made unsuccessful attempts to regain lost ground. More than 15x settlements, including Levadne, Hulyaipole, Charivne, Mala Tokmachka Novoandriivka, Lobkove (Zaporizhzhia oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Odesa operational-strategic group, Kherson axis: Russian forces fired artillery at the city of Kherson and vicinities of the settlements of Beryslav, Novotyahynka (Kherson 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 21, the Ukrainian Air Force launched air strikes on 9x concentrations of Russian troops, weapons and military equipment.

The Ukrainian missile troops hit 1x command post, 3x artillery systems and 1x air defense system of the Russian invaders.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kupyansk direction, as a result of the successful actions of the Zapad Group of Forces units, Krakhmalnoye (Kharkov region) was liberated.

The Group's aviation and artillery repelled seven attacks launched by units of the AFU 25th, 32nd, 60th mechanised brigades, and 1st Ukrainian National Guard Brigade near Sinkovka (Kharkov region), Terni (Donetsk People's Republic), and Kolomyichikha (Lugansk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 55 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles.

In Krasny Liman direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces supported by artillery repelled three attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 21st and 63rd mechanised brigades near Yampolovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 80 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer.

In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces supported by artillery repelled two attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 47th Mechanised Brigade and 5th Assault Brigade near Kirovo and Kleshcheyevka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Moreover, manpower and hardware of the AFU 81st Airmobile Brigade, 22nd, 24th, 28th, and 93rd mechanised brigades were struck near Grigorovka, Belogorovka, Krasnoye, Andreyevka, and Kurdyumovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 310 Ukrainian troops, one tank, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, one D-20 howitzer, and one Grad MLRS combat vehicle.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery repelled one attack launched by an assault detachment of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade near Novomikhailovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Manpower of the AFU 79th Air Assault Brigade was struck near Paraskoveyevka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces supported by artillery inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 117th Mechanised Brigade, 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, and 3rd Ukrainian National Guard Brigade near Verbovoye, Rabotino, Pyatikhatki, and Nesteryanka (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 30 Ukrainian troops, two motor vehicles, and one D-20 howitzer.

In Kherson direction, as a result of strikes at units of the AFU 35th Marines Brigade, 23rd Ukrainian National Guard Brigade, and 123rd Territorial Defence Brigade near Novotyaginka, Stanislav (Kherson region) and Solonchaki (Nikolaev region), up to 20 Ukrainian troops and four motor vehicles were wiped out.

Missile Troops and Artillery, attack unmanned aerial vehicles of the Groups of Forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation obliterated one ammunition depot of the AFU 31st Mechanised Brigade, struck a temporary deployment area of foreign mercenaries near Konstantinovka (Donetsk People's Republic), neutralised 127 AFU artillery units at firing positions, as well as engaged manpower and hardware in 129 areas during the day.

Air defence units intercepted one Tochka-U tactical missile, two U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles over the past 24 hours.

Moreover, 43 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles have been shot down close to Velikiy Vyselok, Liman Perviy (Kharkov region), Verkhnekamenka, Belogorovka, Shipilovka (Lugansk People's Republic), Spornoye, Soledar (Donetsk People's Republic), Peschanovka, Podlesnoye, Podstepnoye (Kherson region), and Kamenka-Dneprovskaya (Zaporozhye region).

In total, 567 airplanes and 265 helicopters, 10,957 unmanned aerial vehicles, 450 air defence missile systems, 14,708 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,203 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 7,799 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 17,698 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.





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Chinese FM's trips to Africa, LatAm highlight Beijing's ties with Global South

Global Times

Closer cooperation with developing nations to achieve more balanced global landscape, fend off rising uncertainty

By Zhao Yusha Published: Jan 21, 2024 08:20 PM Updated: Jan 21, 2024 11:14 PM

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's recent visits to Africa and Latin America, his first overseas trips in 2024, underscore China's growing emphasis on Global South countries. Chinese experts argue that closer coordination with these nations will help create a more balanced and sustainable global landscape, which is crucial in the face of increasing uncertainties and turmoil ahead.

The strong bond between China and many developing countries is not only based on extensive economic cooperation but also on unwavering support for each other's core interests, as exemplified by the Taiwan question. Experts believe that this shared consensus forms the foundation and prerequisite for China's relations with these Global South countries.

China hopes to work with Jamaica to synergize development strategies, expand cooperation in various fields, enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and consolidate the public opinion foundation for China-Jamaica friendship, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said Saturday during a meeting with Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Holness said that China did not hesitate to lend a helping hand when Jamaica encountered difficulties, which has strongly supported Jamaica's economic development and the improvement of people's lives, and vividly demonstrates China's sincere will to help developing countries.

China's top diplomat's trip to the Caribbean country came after his visit to Brazil, where he met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday. The two spoke highly of the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership.

Wang and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira co-chaired the fourth China-Brazil Foreign Ministerial-Level Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue on Friday, vowing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies and expand cooperation in emerging fields. They signed an agreement on mutual visa facilitation to further expand personnel exchanges between the two countries.

Jamaica marks the last stop of Wang's New Year trip of 2024. Before visiting Latin America, the Chinese Foreign Minister also visited Egypt, Tunisia, Togo and Cote d'Ivoire.

Strengthening cooperation with developing countries has always been a priority for China's diplomacy, and China seeks to better coordinate the cooperation with those countries to achieve a sustainable, healthy and balanced global diplomatic landscape, Jiang Shixue, a professor at the Center for Latin American Studies at Shanghai University, told the Global Times.

Adhere to one-China principle

Both Holness and Lula voiced support and adherence to the one-China principle. After he concluded his trip to four African countries, Wang told media on Friday that leaders from those four countries all reiterated their adherence to the one-China principle.

When it comes to issues involving China's core interests, African countries have shown the most resolute attitude and clear stance, fully reflecting the fine tradition of mutual support between China and Africa, Wang said.

Noting that Brazil and China highly agree on many major issues, the Brazilian president said that he looks forward to working with China to improve global governance and enhance the overall strength and the voice of developing countries in international affairs.

Strong consensus in each other's core interests, as well as on most international affairs, is the solid foundation and prerequisite for China's ties with developing countries. Take the Taiwan question as an example, most developing countries keep a clear mind and stand firm with the one-China principle, while a few countries, willing to serve as US vassals, always seek to stir up confrontation with China on this question, Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Li said it is crucial for the Global South to assert its stance on the Taiwan question, making it clear to some Western nations that endorsing the one-China principle is the prevailing consensus and that any interference or provocation in the Taiwan Straits by these Western countries is unwelcome. The Western countries' provocations on the Taiwan question are only amusing themselves on the international stage, he said.

After Taiwan's regional election earlier this month, countries such as Canada, Japan, France and UK and the EU sent "congratulations" to the island. Later, the Chinese embassies in Canada, Japan, France and the UK as well as Mission of China to the EU expressed their strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to those countries and regions.

Stabilizing forces

Wang highlighted the increased uncertainty and instability the world is facing when he met with Celso Amorim, advisor to the Brazilian President. As independent emerging powers, China and Brazil should first manage their own affairs well, while strengthening unity, cooperation, and anchoring common goals to demonstrate their responsibilities as major countries and become crucial stabilizing forces in a multi-polar system, he said.

Observers said that as the world economy is still suffering from a sluggish recovery, it is high time for developing countries to huddle together. The closer they huddle, the stronger they will be in resisting the rising uncertainty.

Li pointed out that the biggest uncertainty lies in the US. A comeback of former president Donald Trump is predicted by many policy pundits to cause unease for the global economy.

Despite winning only one 2024 Republican nomination contest, global media outlets are abuzz with speculation about the potential implications of a Trump 2.0 presidency on the world economy. A CNBC article last week said that Trump's potential return to the White House dominated the conversation at this year's edition of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

"Every question I've gotten as I've walked up and down the [Davos] Promenade today is, 'is he coming back?'" Tim Adams, president of the Institute of International Finance, told CNBC.

Moreover, many developing countries are attracted to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China's Global Security Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, along with other proposals, Li said. He noted that those plans connect Global South countries more closely, and better serve their own development plans.

Wang discussed the BRI with both the Jamaican leader and the Brazilian Foreign Minister. Wang and Vieira vowed to explore the strategic synergy between the Belt and Road cooperation and Brazil's reindustrialization and New Growth Acceleration Program and deepen cooperation in traditional areas, as well as expand cooperation in emerging fields.

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Increasing US close-in drone recons on China 'add complexity in military interactions'

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Jan 21, 2024 11:38 PM

Experts on Sunday said that while the Chinese military is prepared to counter the US' close-in drone reconnaissance attempts on China, the country is ready to establish a set of rules with the international community governing maritime and aerial interactions with drones, after a think tank report suggested that the US is increasing deployment of drones in such missions that will lead to more complexities in the two militaries' maritime and aerial interactions, as well as crisis management and control.

The MQ-4C unmanned aerial vehicle has gradually become the main force in the US Navy's close-in reconnaissance missions in the Asia-Pacific region, replacing the manned EP-3E electronic reconnaissance aircraft, the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative (SCSPI), a Beijing-based think tank, said on Friday in a report.

After a first deployment in Guam in early 2020 for two years of missions in the Asia-Pacific, MQ-4Cs were again deployed in Guam in September 2023, and the scope of their activities indicated that these drones have assumed the roles of EP-3Es at least in the East China Sea, the Taiwan Straits and the South China Sea, the SCSPI said.

Since the start of 2024, MQ-4Cs continued to maintain high frequencies of operations, while no activities of EP-3Es were observed in these regions, according to the think tank's monitoring.

The SCSPI pointed out that the reconnaissance capabilities and efficiencies of the MQ-4C, including long endurance, all-weather and all-dimensional performances, are far superior to those of the EP-3E, not to mention that the operators of the drone can control the drones from as far as Guam, Hawaii or even the US mainland, where time differences will easily allow the drones to operate at nighttime in the Asia-Pacific region.

Drones have advantages in close-in reconnaissance because they have longer endurance, can cover a wider region, incur lower costs and are stealthier than a manned aircraft, so they can spy on regions 24 hours non-stop, Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Since such close-in reconnaissance operations pose serious national security threats, China will have to respond, including by hiding military activities from the US drones, conducting jamming, disrupting the control of the US drones or even shooting them down should they violate Chinese airspace, Song said.

Another Chinese military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Sunday that the US could take advantage of the unmanned nature of drones to make more provocations since there is no risk of casualties.

On the other hand, pilots who are tasked to identify, monitor and potentially intercept the drones will face higher risks if the drones make dangerous maneuvers, the expert said.

Sending manned aircraft is also less efficient because of higher human resources and aircraft operational costs, the expert said.

The SCSPI also cited the risks of accidents, saying that regular activities by large US drones in hot regions will add complexity in maritime and aerial interaction as well as crisis management and control between China and the US.

In the three-day Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS) Workshop 2024 hosted by the Chinese Navy that wrapped up in Nanjing, East China's Jiangsu Province on Thursday, the Chinese Navy raised the topic of the establishment of a research working group on unmanned systems, in addition to discussing the revision of the WPNS Business Charter and the use of the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Thursday.

Experts said that a set of rules must be established for drones so they do not violate codes of maritime and aerial interactions, and international cooperation in this aspect is important.

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Five killed in insider attack in Iranian Army

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Kerman, IRNA -- A conscript has killed five fellow soldiers in a military barrack in the southeastern Iranian province of Kerman.

Commander of the Iranian Army's Southeastern Regional Headquarters Brigadier General Amir Gholamalian said on Sunday the conscript had opened fire on soldiers resting in a military position and then fled the scene.

Gholamalian said a probe had been launched to determine the motives behind the shooting, adding that the conscript is being chased.

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Iranian, Chinese deputy FMs hold phone talk

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Kerman, IRNA -- Iranian and Chinese deputy foreign ministers have held a telephone conversation to discuss key developing issues in bilateral and international relations.

The phone conversation was held on Sunday between Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Ali Bagheri Kani and China's Executive Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Ma Zhaoxu.

Baghei and Zhaoxu discussed bilateral ties and issues of mutual interests as well as regional and international developments in the contestation.

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Alborz destroyer deployment to Red Sea not linked with regional situation: Navy chief

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jan 21, 2024

Kerman, IRNA -- Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Shahram Irani says the deployment of the Alborz destroyer to the Red Sea has nothing to do with the regional situation.

Speaking to IRNA's defense and security correspondent, Irani said the Islamic Republic does not regard the situation in the region as complicated.

"The deployment of the Alborz destroyer to the Red Sea is in line with the permanent missions of the [Iranian] Navy and the escort of oil tankers of the Islamic Republic of Iran," he said.

He further said the destroyer will safeguard the security of Iranian ships in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.

According to Irani, the 96th flotilla has also been deployed to the Red Sea recently and the 97th flotilla will soon join the Iranian naval forces in the strategic region as well.

Conveying a message of peace and friendship to all countries, announcing Iran's readiness for multilateral relations with different countries, and strengthening the country's defense diplomacy and naval clout are among the goals of the deployments, he added.

The Alborz destroyer entered the Red Sea on January 1, amid the Yemeni armed forces' retaliatory attacks on Israeli-linked ships in support of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Rear Admiral Irani said the country's seizure of a US-linked ship in the Sea of Oman was a response to the US theft of Iranian oil.

"We will respond decisively if the rights of our people are encroached upon," he asserted.

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Iran President: Israel's assassination of IRGC advisors will not go unanswered

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Sun / 21 January 2024 / 07:48

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.

Tehran-ISNA- "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.

End Item

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Iran asserts military advisors to forcefully continue anti-terror mission in region

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 6:42 AM

The Foreign Minister says Iranian military advisors will continue their anti-terror mission in the region in defiance of Israel's "cowardly" assassination operations.

"Iran's military advisers will strongly continue activities to fight terrorism and ensure regional security," Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said in an X post on Saturday, after five members of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) were martyred in an Israeli strike in Syria.

The top Iranian diplomat paid tribute to the martyrs and wished the bereaved families peace and patience.

"The Israeli regime is the main accomplice to terrorist currents and enemy number one of regional security," Amir-Abdollahian noted.

"Undoubtedly, the Zionists' defeat against the will of the people of Gaza cannot be compensated by such cowardly terrorist acts."

The IRGC advisors were assassinated in an Israeli airstrike on a residential building in the tightly guarded Mezzeh neighborhood, west of the Syrian capital Damascus.

Iran's President Ebrahim Raeisi said Israel's terrorist act is an indicative of the regime's failure to achieve its malicious goals and the depth of its frustration with the fighters of the resistance front, warning that the targeted killing will not go unanswered.

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani also said the Islamic Republic reserves the right to respond to the organized terrorism of the occupying entity at an appropriate time and place.

Iran has maintained an advisory mission in Syria at the request of Damascus with the aim of helping the war-torn country vanquish the foreign-backed militants, who have been fighting against the Syrian government since 2011.

Iran's advisory assistance helped Syria defeat Daesh and win back control of almost all regions from terrorists.

The Tel Aviv regime has ramped up its airstrikes on Syria since early October, when the regime launched the ongoing genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip.

More than 100 days into the brutal aggression, Israel has failed to achieve its objectives of "destroying" the Hamas resistance movement and finding Israeli captives in Gaza despite killing almost 25,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injuring over 62,300 others.

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Analysts: Assassination Plot Shows Extremes Iran Employs to Target Critics

By Liam Scott January 21, 2024

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 Iran's 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 International's 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."

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately reply to VOA's 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 hadn't been influential, I wouldn't 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 she's 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 isn't 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 a 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.

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Top Iraqi general.: Baghdad 'determined' to end presence of US-led coalition forces

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 10:00 AM

The spokesman for Iraq's Joint Operations Command (JOC), Brigadier General Yahya Rasool, says the Baghdad government is determined to end the presence of foreign troops from the US-led military coalition purportedly formed to fight the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group.

"The Iraqi government is resolute to put an end to the deployment of foreign forces in the country. It has devised a vision plan for the next stage, which includes joint technical activities intended for the US-led coalition's departure and subsequent security and military cooperation," Rasool said.

The high-ranking Iraqi security official underscored that with the presence of capable Iraqi forces, the US-led military coalition in Iraq is no longer needed.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani on Thursday repeated his call for the US-led coalition to depart his country, stressing that Baghdad demands the immediate withdrawal of the forces due to their destabilizing activities.

"The end of the US-led coalition mission is a necessity for the security and stability of Iraq," he said during a televised event at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

"It is also a necessity for preserving constructive bilateral relations between Iraq and the coalition countries," the Iraqi prime minister noted.

Sudani has repeatedly said in recent weeks he would like to see foreign troops leave Iraq.

Iraq adopted the law to expel foreign forces after Washington's assassination of top Iraqi and Iranian anti-terror commanders four years ago.

General Qassem Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the second-in-command of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), were martyred along with their comrades in a US drone strike that was authorized by then-president Donald Trump near Baghdad International Airport on January 3, 2020.

The two iconic anti-terror commanders are greatly admired for their instrumental role in fighting and decimating the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group in the region, particularly in Iraq and Syria.

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Amid Rising Tensions With Iran, Pakistani Police Say Member Of Iranian-Backed Militant Group Arrested In Karachi

By RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal January 21, 2024

The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Pakistan's southwestern Sindh Province has said it has arrested a suspect in the 2019 attempted assassination attempt on a top Pakistani cleric, accusing the arrested man of being a "trained terrorist" who belongs to the Zainebiyoun Brigade, a militant group allegedly backed by Iran.

The CTD said in a January 20 statement that Syed Mohammad Mehdi was arrested in an operation at a bazaar in Karachi. The CTD accused Mehdi of targeting clerics in the provincial capital and of working for Iranian intelligence.

Khuram Waris, who heads the CTD in Karachi, told Radio Mashaal on January 21 that Mehdi is a Pakistani citizen who received training in a "neighboring country."

"He is a member of the Zainabiyoun Brigade. He was involved in many attacks, including the attack on Mufti Taqi Usmani in Karachi."

Usmani, a religious scholar and former top court judge in Pakistan, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Karachi in 2019. Two of Usmani's bodyguards were killed in the attack, for which no group claimed responsibility.

Waris claimed two associates of Mehdi's were also involved in recent attacks against clerics in Karachi.

The Zainabiyoun Brigade is alleged to have been formed by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and believed to have up to 1,000 fighters.

The arrest comes amid heightened tensions between Islamabad and Tehran after the IRGC on January 16 launched unannounced missile and drone attacks against targets in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan.

The attacks against Jaish al-Adl, a U.S. designated terrorist group targeted that has been accused by Tehran of carrying out deadly attacks in Iran, were justified by Tehran as its "legitimate and legal right to deter national security threats."

Pakistan condemned the strike on its territory and responded on January 18 with air strikes against separatist groups allegedly hiding out on Iranian territory.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pakistan-arrest- iranian-backed-militant-group-member/32785586.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.

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Syria: Barbaric Israeli aggression on Damascus proves regime's criminal nature

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 7:54 AM

Syria has strongly condemned the latest Israeli missile attack on a residential neighborhood in the capital Damascus concurrent with unrelenting ground and air strikes against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing such acts of aggression attest to the criminal nature of the Tel Aviv regime.

"The racist Israeli entity launched a brutal act of aggression on Saturday, January 20, 2024, against a residential neighborhood in Damascus. The inhumane act resulted in the complete collapse of a building, damage to nearby structures, and death and injury of civilians," the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said in a statement.

It added, "This barbaric aggression, together with the mass murder that the Zionist enemy is perpetrating in the occupied Palestinian territories, proves beyond any doubt the criminal nature of the entity and its leaders."

Five Iranian military advisors of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed in the Israeli missile attack on a building in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus.

An eyewitness living in the area said he heard four to six missiles passing through the sky in quick succession.

The Syrian ministry also called upon the international community to take an immediate action aimed at stopping the crimes and massacres that Israel is committing against ordinary people and civilian facilities.

Such acts undermine regional and international security and peace, are in flagrant violation of the principles of the UN Charter, and openly flout the purposes and goals for which the world body was established, the statement noted.

The Syrian foreign ministry stressed that attacks on civilians and demolition of residential buildings, with utter disregard for women, children or elderly people inside, has become a regular approach of the Israeli regime.

The latest Israeli attack on Damascus reflects the policy of extermination instituted by fascist Zionism, which has its roots in the denial of existence of other peoples and their rights, the ministry said.

"Syria reiterates that this act of aggression will only strengthen its determination to stand up to these inhumane Zionist plots, and the policy of genocide and ethnic cleansing which the Israeli entity is practicing without any consideration for international law and conventions," the statement read.

The Syrian foreign ministry finally urged the international community to stand up to Israel's genocidal policies in the Arab world, asking the UN Security Council to shoulder its responsibilities as to safeguarding international peace and security, hold Israeli political and military officials to account, and put an end to their inhumane and immoral policies.

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.

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Taiwan says it cherishes relations with Tuvalu amid warning ties at risk

ROC Central News Agency

01/21/2024 02:27 PM

Taipei, Jan. 21 (CNA) Taiwan cherishes its diplomatic ties with Tuvalu and is willing to continue to enhance relations with the Pacific ally, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said in a statement Sunday.

The reaffirmation of the Taipei-Funafuti friendship came amid an envoy's latest warning that the island nation could soon follow Nauru's decision earlier this month to ditch Taipei for Beijing.

In a news article published on Jan. 19 by the Weekend Australian, Tuvalu Ambassador to the Republic of China (ROC) Bikenibeu Paeniu said "sources from Tuvalu" had told him that his country could follow Nauru and switch its diplomatic recognition to Beijing after its election on Jan. 26.

The former Tuvalu prime minister called on Australia and its allies and partners to closely watch the situation and to step up their support for his nation.

Asked to comment, MOFA reaffirmed Taiwan's strong bilateral cooperation with Tuvalu in various areas, including agriculture and fisheries, medicine and healthcare, information and communications, clean energy, and education and cultural exchanges, since the two countries established diplomatic links in 1979.

MOFA also said that after Taiwan's Vice President Lai Ching-te (ea) of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was elected president on Jan. 13, Tuvaluan senior officials and politicians across party lines issued congratulatory messages to Lai, while sending reassurances that Tuvalu-Taiwan ties will remain strong.

The list included Governor General of Tuvalu Tofiga Falani, Prime Minister Kausea Natano, and Samuelu Teo, speaker of the parliament, the ministry added.

It went on to say that Taiwan's government will continue to cherish the countries' solid friendship and act to strengthen bilateral cooperation on various fronts based on the shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and rule of law.

Nauru announced on Jan. 15 that it was severing ties with the ROC, Taiwan's formal national designation, to recognize the People's Republic of China.

That left the ROC with 12 allies, including the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau in the Pacific region.

In The Australian report, Paeniu also said that Beijing had been highly active in Tuvalu since the latter's last election in late 2019.

A number of Chinese companies had offered to help the Pacific island nation -- which is facing an extreme risk of being submerged in the coming decades as sea levels rise -- with a US$400 million artificial island establishment project, according to the envoy.

The Chinese offer was rebuffed, but sources in Taipei told the Weekend Australian that a similar proposal has been made again in the lead-up to next week's election.

Following Nauru's Jan. 15 decision, the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau all pledged to stick with Taiwan, according to MOFA.

The severing of ties between Taiwan and Nauru came two days after Lai was elected president. MOFA had accused China of plotting to poach the diplomatic ally of Taiwan as part of a calculated "assault on democracy."

Nauru was also the 10th diplomatic ally Taipei has lost to Beijing since President Tsai Ing-wen (ee) took office in May 2016, due to deteriorating cross-Taiwan Strait relations.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/cs/m

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US' manipulating politics in Taiwan to face restraints, counteracts: expert

Global Times

'Green terror,' worsening economy feared as external meddling continues: expert

By Yang Sheng Published: Jan 21, 2024 11:03 PM Updated: Jan 21, 2024 11:14 PM

The US' thinly-veiled policy of playing the so-called Taiwan card to support its geopolitical strategy of containing China is continuing after the regional election of Taiwan island with US lawmakers reportedly scheduling to go to the island.

Analysts said that there is nothing new about the US politicians' trip to the island, but it's still a provocative move against the one-China principle, and the Chinese mainland will take actions to respond based on the level of provocation made by the US and the Taiwan authorities.

Chinese experts said that the US will keep manipulating Taiwan politics but Washington is also being restrained as being overly provocative might cause the situation losing control, especially when the US is busy to deal with the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict at the same time in the year of US presidential election.

The Chinese mainland will try to safeguard the peace across the Taiwan Straits, and be well prepared to respond to all kinds of provocations, and to push forward the reunification process step by step in its own way, experts noted.

Continue manipulation

According to Japan's Nikkei on Sunday, a US bipartisan congressional delegation will go to the island of Taiwan to "strengthen relationships with opposition party leaders," as well as the new regional leader-elect Lai, also the head of secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

Representative Ami Bera, top Democrat in the House subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, will join a group of lawmakers on a trip to Taipei soon. It is expected to be the first US congressional delegation to the island after the January 13 regional election. Bera said in an interview on Friday that the US congress members are going to send a message of "welcome" and "congratulation" to Lai, stressing the visit will demonstrate "US support for island's democracy."

However, many Taiwan residents reached by the Global Times said the election this time has failed to reflect the public opinion on the island because DPP's Lai got elected with merely 40 percent of the votes, and the reason why he got elected is that the opposition parties' candidates failed to unite, causing a division among the remaining 60 percent of the voters who wanted to end the DPP's ruling.

Chang Li-chi, from Taiwan island and currently a postdoctoral researcher at Huaqiao University in Xiamen, told the Global Times that "the real public opinion in the island is to oppose the DPP's policy that has been causing tensions with the mainland in recent years, and also oppose the incompetence and corruption of the DPP authorities that has caused economic depression in the island."

Since the island's problematic election system is under the manipulation and control of foreign interference forces and some local interest groups with pro-secessionist and anti-reunification stance, people in Taiwan are unable to effectively decide their own future, and they are very easy to be divided into different groups, so they are unable to make meaningful change to correct the wrong path of the DPP secessionists, Chang noted.

Some Taiwan residents who asked for anonymity due to the concern of political persecution by the DPP told the Global Times that the DPP being elected is not reflecting democracy at all, because the secessionist party has been pushing the "Green Terror" (green is the color of the DPP) in the island for a very long time, and this situation will only get worse in the coming years due to Lai being elected.

"Many of us are only doing very normal businesses in the mainland or have jobs to promote the cross-Straits people-to-people exchanges, but we will be targeted by the DPP authorities, they may label us 'spies' or 'proxies' that' are 'sponsored by the Communist Party of China,' and some of our families may get detained by the authorities, and some others fined heavily or barred from leaving the island," said a Taiwan resident who asked for anonymity.

No one in the island is able to challenge the "Green Terror," said Taiwan analysts.

The US politicians and White House's so-called congratulations to Lai are nothing about democracy, but about manipulating the island to contain China, or in other words, to play "the Taiwan card against China," experts said.

The US politicians from both Democrats and Republicans agree that they need to make the best use of "the Taiwan card" when competing with China as they have realized that there is very little time left for them to use this card against China, LA Xiang, research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Sunday.

According to Nikkei, Bera declined to give specific details about the trip, but the US politician noted the delegation plans to also meet with senior members of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP).

Although the DPP won the regional election, the opposition parties have got more seats in the legislative authority, and analysts said this situation will restrict Lai's secessionist policy to some extent, and this is also the reason why the US wants to strengthen engagement with the opposition parties to keep its manipulation over the politics of the island.

On one hand, the US doesn't want the DPP to be too provocative against the mainland, as this might force the mainland to take decisive action to solve the Taiwan question once and for all; on the other hand, the US also wants to divide the opposition parties and to make sure there is no political force able to effectively promote reunification progress with the mainland, experts said.

Xin Qiang, deputy director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, told the Global Times on Sunday that "the US actions and remarks from US officials on the Taiwan regional election so far have not surpassed what it has done in the past, but China will respond based on the extent of provocations [if the US side acts recklessly]."

Integrated development

"What the mainland needs to do at the moment is to further promote its own development, especially the high-quality development, and use this advantage to promote the reunification process in its own way, to build the bridges with individuals of Taiwan, as well as cities and counties governed by non-secessionist political parties on the island, to push the cross-Straits integration and co-development," said Li Fei, a professor at the Taiwan Research Center at Xiamen University.

The regional election result caused pessimistic atmosphere among the people from Taiwan who support the cross-Straits peace and cooperation, as the Taiwan compatriots reached by Global Times reporters in Xiamen, a hub for cross-Straits exchanges, said the future of Taiwan's economy and security are all in serious troubles.

But there is also good news for people of Taiwan who start up or get employed in the mainland, as well as Taiwan companies and individuals who have plans to seek opportunities from the mainland's market. Chinese mainland authorities have released sweeping guidelines to support East China's Fujian Province in exploring new paths for cross-Straits integrated development, outlining a flurry of specific measures to boost economic and trade cooperation between Fujian and Taiwan region in a wide range of areas from services trade and small businesses to high-tech industrial clusters.

Li said this is a creative approach to bypass the obstacles set by DPP authorities and to build connection with Taiwan's individuals. When Taiwan's economy is very likely to face more troubles due to the cross-Straits tensions caused by secessionist DPP, more and more Taiwan people will decide to leave the island and the mainland would be a popular choice for them. This is also very important for the mainland to be prepared for post-reunification governance of the island.

Taiwan residents reached by the Global Times in Xiamen said that culture, local language and living environment in Fujian are actually very similar to those of Taiwan, and in cities like Xiamen, it's even more developed than many cities in Taiwan, adding that due to the huge market and advanced infrastructure in the mainland, as well as the mainland's rising soft power among the youth in Taiwan, they believe that more and more Taiwan youths will break the ideological bias and come to the mainland to see by their own eyes in the coming years.

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At least 18 killed in Ukrainian strike on Donetsk

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 21 January 2024 11:14 AM

Ukrainian forces have shelled a busy market in Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, leaving at least 18 people dead and 13 more wounded.

Head of the Russian-administrated areas of Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin, said emergency services were working at the scene and that the relevant specialists were trying to collect fragments of the weapons used in the attack.

Alexei Kulemzin, the city's mayor, said Ukrainian forces had shelled a busy area where shops and a market were located.

The Donetsk region is one of four pro-Moscow regions in Donbas, which joined Russia after holding referendums in September 2022.

However, the Kiev forces are still in control of some parts of the regions.

Russia's Defense Ministry has announced recently that its troops had liberated a village in the Donetsk region.

The Russians said on Thursday that their troops had captured the small village of Vesele, 20km northeast of Bakhmut, in eastern Ukraine.

"In the Donetsk direction, as a result of successful actions of Southern Group troop units, the settlement of Vesele in the Donetsk People's Republic was liberated," Russia's Defense Ministry announced

The Russian troops announcement of fresh military advancements on the war front came as Ukraine's war minister told Kiev's Western allies that the Ukrainian forces were facing a "very real and pressing" shortage of artillery shells.

"A shortage of ammunition is a very real and pressing problem that our armed forces are facing at present," Ukraine Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on Thursday in a message posted on X.

After speaking by video link to a gathering of the allies, the Ukrainian official said a new "artillery coalition" had been formed to supply Kiev's troops with more ammo. "The artillery coalition is aimed at solving this issue."

After Russian troops began their special military operation in Donbas in February 2022, the US-led Western allies largely increased the supply of arms and munitions to Kiev, sending multiple shipments of guns and ammo worth tens-of-billions of dollars.

However, Kiev's demand for more weapons and ammunition has prompted far-right US politicians to question the Ukrainian forces effectiveness in fighting the US-led Western countries' proxy war against the Russians.

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Strike On Market In Russian-Occupied Donetsk Kills 27, De-Facto Official Says

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service January 21, 2024

At least 27 people were killed on January 21 by shelling at a market on the outskirts of the city of Donetsk in Russian-occupied Ukraine, the head of the Russian-installed authority in Donetsk said.

An additional 25 people were injured in the strike on the suburb of Tekstilshchik, including two teenagers, said Denis Pushilin, who accused the Ukrainian military of firing the shells.

He blamed Ukraine for the attack, calling it a "horrific" artillery strike on a civilian area.

Ukrainian shelling of a separate neighborhood in the city killed one person, Pushilin said, bringing the total number of dead in occupied Donetsk to 28.

According to Aleksei Kulemzin, Donetsk city's Russian-installed mayor, Ukrainian forces bombarded a busy area where shops and a market are located.

Pushilin announced a day of mourning on January 22 in the so-called Donetsk People's Republic, the name given to the part of the region Russia says it has annexed.

Kyiv has not commented on the event, and the claims of the Russian-installed officials in Donetsk could not be independently verified.

The Russian Foreign Ministry blamed the strike on Ukraine and described it as a "terrorist attack."

"These terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime clearly demonstrate its lack of political will toward achieving peace and the settlement of this conflict by diplomatic means," it said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy posted a message on X, formerly Twitter, saying that thousands of people would still be alive today if Moscow had not launched the war but did not mention the strike against occupied Donetsk.

"Russia must feel and realize forever that the aggressor loses the most as a result of aggression," he said, adding that on January 21 more than 100 Ukrainian cities, towns, and villages in nine regions had been shelled and, unfortunately, there were dead and wounded.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including today's shelling of the city of Donetsk in Ukraine," according to a UN spokesperson, adding that all such attacks are prohibited under international humanitarian law.

The Donetsk regional military administration, meanwhile, said one person was killed and another was wounded as a result of shelling by Russian troops of Kurakhovo on January 21.

Vadym Filashkin accused the Russian troops of aiming at residential buildings, adding that a 31-year-old man died at the scene.

A kindergarten and several private houses were damaged by the impact, and a fire broke out, which the rescuers have already extinguished, Filashkin said on Telegram.

Earlier on January 21, the Russian Defense Ministry announced a missile attack on the occupied Crimea.

Russian anti-aircraft missiles allegedly shot down three missiles over the Black Sea near the western coast of the Russian-occupied peninsula, the ministry said on Telegram.

Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russian-installed governor of the Ukrainian peninsula seized by Moscow in 2014, said at the time that air-defense forces had "shot down an aerial target" over the Black Sea.

Prior to the statement, an RFE/RL correspondent reported an air raid and three explosions in Sevastopol.

On the front line, Russian forces took control of the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, the Russian Defense Ministry announced on January 21.

Ukrainian forces confirmed that the settlement had been occupied, but Volodymyr Fityo, spokesman for Ukrainian Ground Forces Command, said Kyiv's troops had been pulled back to pre-prepared reserve positions.

He said Krokhmalne had a population of roughly 45 people before the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. "That's five houses, probably," he was quoted as saying by Ukrainian news outlet Hromadske. "Our main goal is to save the lives of Ukraine's defenders."

With reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-occupied- ukraine-shelling-market-death-toll/32785560.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.

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Russian Energy Company Suspends Some Operations At Baltic Sea Terminal After Fire

By RFE/RL's Russian Service January 21, 2024

The Russian energy company Novatak suspended some operations at its liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal in the Russian Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga after a fire erupted early on January 21 following reports of drone sightings in the area.

Novatek, which is partially owned by Gennady Timchenko, a close associate of Russian President Vladimir Putin, said it had been forced to suspend unspecified operations at the huge fuel export terminal due to the fire.

The fuel export terminal that is used to ship oil and gas products to international markets, including to Europe.

It was not clear how long the disruption would last, how many tankers would have to wait outside the port, and what the knock-on effect would be on international energy markets.

Timchenko owns 23.49 percent of Novatek, according to data quoted by Interfax at the time of the company's annual meeting in April 2023. The largest shareholder is Leonid Mikhelson with 24.76 percent, Interfax said.

The fire at a terminal belonging to Russia's largest LNG producer, Novatek, was caused by two explosions, state-run Russian news agency RIA Novosti cited local officials as saying.

The agency said the fire has been contained to a 100-cubic-meter fuel depot at the terminal, located about 110 kilometers west of St. Petersburg and near the Estonian border.

Russian media said earlier the fire followed reports of explosions and drone sightings in the area.

Leningrad regional Governor Aleksandr Drozdenko said on Telegram that there were no casualties as a result of the blaze and that the local fire service and the Emergency Situations Ministry was involved in the effort to extinguish it.

The fire was reportedly contained by 9 a.m. local time.

The outlet 47 News published videos and photographs it said showed a "large reservoir" at the Ust-Luga facility on fire. The outlet said that the Russian Defense Ministry had early on January 21 reported the appearance of two drones flying toward St. Petersburg.

The incident comes amid Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine, which has been marked by frequent drone attacks by each side.

On January 20, Ukraine declared an air-raid alert for its entire territory after Russia launched seven drones and three guided missiles at Ukrainian targets. Ukrainian officials have accused Russia of targeting energy and other key infrastructure during the winter cold in an effort to break the Ukrainian people's will to fight following Russia's unprovoked invasion in February 2022.

Moscow on January 19 claimed a Ukrainian drone attack had hit an oil depot in Russia's western Bryansk region. A day earlier, Russian officials claimed an attempted attack on a Baltic Sea oil terminal was unsuccessful.

The Ukrainian Defense Ministry traditionally does not comment on or claim responsibility for attacks Moscow claims Kyiv carries out on Russian territory.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-gas-terminal-fire-st- petersburg/32785378.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.

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Foreign Ministry statement on the Ukrainian neo-Nazis' missile attack on Donetsk

21 January 2024 15:20

68-21-01-2024

The neo-Nazi regime in Kiev, supported by the United States and its satellites, has committed yet another brutal terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia.

On the morning of January 21, armed units of Bandera's followers deliberately targeted a market and shops in Tekstilshchik, a neighbourhood in the Kirovsky District of Donetsk, with multiple launch rocket systems. A total of six artillery rounds were fired at the busiest areas in town causing a large number of casualties. According to reports, at least 25 people were killed and 20 were injured.

Russia's Investigative Committee promptly launched an investigation into this crime. All those involved and responsible for this and other terrorist attacks on our soil will face inevitable punishment.

It was established that the shelling was coming from Avdeyevka, which is still controlled by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and that the types of weapons supplied by the West were used. This is further confirmation of the Western countries' direct involvement in the conflict, implicating them in the criminal acts committed by the Zelensky regime. This regime has once again demonstrated its inhuman nature and hatred for innocent people they are calling "species." The leaders in Kiev are prepared to kill them mercilessly.

Russia strongly condemns this treacherous attack on civilians. The West's unrestrained desire to inflict a "strategic defeat" on Russia using their Ukrainian puppets to do the fighting, thoughtlessly supporting them without any limits, is pushing the Kiev regime to increasingly reckless steps, including terrorist attacks, massive violations of international humanitarian law and war crimes. Russia calls on all responsible governments and relevant international agencies to strongly condemn this brutal act of terrorism. Their silence would mean tacit approval of the murder of civilians and encourage Ukrainian neo-Nazis to commit even more terrible atrocities.

The terrorist attacks by the Kiev regime clearly demonstrate that it has no political will for peace and the settlement of the conflict by diplomatic means.

The need for achieving all the goals and objectives of Russia's special military operation is obvious. No threats to security or acts of terrorism must be coming from the territory of Ukraine.

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Russia Condemns Shelling of Donetsk, Dubs It 'Barbaric Terrorist Act'

Sputnik News

20240121

At least 25 civilians were killed and more than 20 wounded in the Ukrainian shelling of a market in Donetsk on Sunday.

The Russian Foreign Ministry published a statement on Ukraine's shelling of Donetsk, calling it "a barbaric terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia."

Russia urges international organizations and national governments to condemn Ukrainian attacks on Donetsk and stresses that any "silence will mean unspoken approval of the massacre of civilians."

The Foreign Ministry added: "Kiev's terrorist attacks clearly demonstrate its lack of political will to reach a peace settlement through diplomatic means."

However, the collective West is no less responsible for this terrorist attack since it has the "desire to inflict a strategic defeat on the Russian Federation using Ukrainian puppets," a desire that has pushed Kiev to take even more "reckless steps", including "terrorist acts, mass violation of international humanitarian law and war crimes."

The ministry specified that shelling was conducted with the use of Western weaponry, which "once again confirms its direct involvement in the conflict and makes it a partner in the crimes of the Zelensky regime's atrocities."

The Foreign Ministry concluded that in the light of Donetsk shelling, the necessity to fulfill the goals and aims of the special military operation become even more evident since "Ukrainian territory must not be a source of security threats" and a platform for "terrorist acts."

On Sunday, Ukrainian troops shelled the Kirovsky district of Donetsk, a busy area with markets and shops, especially on weekends. According to the latest official information, the attack has claimed the lives of at least 25 civilians.

Ukraine regularly shells the Donetsk region, targeting civilian areas. According to the Joint Center for Control and Coordination (JCCC) of issues related to Ukraine's war crimes, Kiev has killed at least 9,152 civilians, including 233 children, in the Donetsk People's Republic since May 2014.

A Sputnik

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Russian Forces Strike Ukraine's Foreign Mercenary Deployment Point in DPR

Sputnik News

20240121

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported on the recent progress of the special military operation.

''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.

"Russian troops, supported by artillery, defeated the personnel and equipment of the 117th mechanized brigade, the 128th mountain assault brigade, and the 3rd brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine near Zaporozhye's Verbovoye, Rabotino, Pyatikhatki and Nesteryanka settlements".

"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.

A Sputnik

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At Least 25 Civilians Killed in Ukrainian Shelling of Donetsk

Sputnik News

20240121

According to the date from regional authorities, Ukrainian armed forces shelled Donetsk region 43 times in the last 24 hours, firing 161 projectiles.

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 said.

He has described the attack as "atrocious", stressing that the market was shelled on the day when it was especially crowded.

Rescue teams are working at the scene, information on casualties is being updated while specialists are looking for the shards of the projectiles.

Earlier, a Sputnik correspondent reported that Ukrainian armed forces fired at least six 155mm shells at the Kirovsky district of Donetsk, a busy area with markets and shops.

A Sputnik

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Slovak Prime Minister Says Bratislava Will Block Ukraine's Attempts to Join NATO

Sputnik News

20240121

BRATISLAVA (Sputnik) - Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said on Saturday that he would hold a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal, in the western Ukrainian city of Uzhhorod on January 24, during which he would inform Shmyhal that Slovakia would block Ukraine's membership in NATO.

"As for their entry into the European Union, we respect that, but they must meet the conditions ... I will say that I am against Ukraine's membership in NATO, that I will use the right of veto and block it, because it will be the foundation of World War 3," Fico told the RTVS broadcaster.

He also reiterated the government's position not to provide weapons to Ukraine. At the same time, he noted that Bratislava does not refuse to provide humanitarian aid to Kiev.

Fico added that Ukraine is under "the total control and influence of the United States" since the events of 2014, and the European Union is making a big mistake by adhering to the American opinion on the Ukraine conflict instead of forming its own.

A Sputnik

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Russia must feel and remember that the aggressor loses the most from aggression - address by the President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine

21 January 2024 - 21:35

Dear Ukrainians!

Another week of this war and our active actions, our defense, is coming to an end. Since the beginning of this day alone, there have been about 60 battles. The most intense hostilities are in the Avdiivka sector, as well as in Bakhmut, Maryinka, Kupyansk directions, and in the South of our country. There were more than 50 Russian strikes with multiple launch rocket systems alone, as well as dozens of air and missile strikes.

On this day alone, Russian savages shelled more than a hundred cities, towns, and our Ukrainian villages in nine regions: from Chernihiv and Sumy to Mykolaiv and Kirovohrad. The most brutal Russian attacks were in Donetsk region. Unfortunately, there are wounded and dead. My condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones.

Russia will be held accountable for all this terror - it must be. If it hadn't been for Moscow's decisions to start this aggression and this terror, thousands and thousands of people would be alive today. That is why it is so important to bring Russia to full, fair accountability at all levels. At the individual level, so that every war criminal is held to account, every terrorist. And at the level of the entire terrorist state - through its assets and capabilities.

Russia must feel and remember forever that the aggressor loses the most from aggression. I am grateful to everyone who brings Russia's accountability closer by all means - military, sanctions, legal, and political.

And we have already defined our Ukrainian priorities for the coming weeks. Our tasks are clear - both in terms of packages that will strengthen our position at the front, and in terms of political cooperation with partners, and in terms of what is needed for Ukraine's financial stability.

A special priority is the European Union and relations with our closest neighbors. We are preparing more interaction and new communication, new important negotiations.

I am grateful to everyone who believes today, as they did last year and in 2022, that Russian terror must be defeated. Anything that strengthens Ukraine and protects our people adds strength to everyone in Europe and everyone in the world who values international law. Anything that weakens Russia and brings the war back home to Russia contributes to the stability of international relations and saves the world from even greater crises.

I thank everyone who fights and works for Ukraine! I thank everyone who saves the lives of Ukrainians!

Glory to Ukraine!

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Russia on Alert After Spate of Ukrainian Attacks

By VOA News January 21, 2024

Dozens of people were killed or injured, including two children, when a busy market came under attack in a neighborhood of the Russia-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, the region's Russia-appointed government said Sunday.

Russia blames Ukraine for the attack in Tekstilshchik, that according to Russian officials killed at least 27 people and injured 25 others. Ukraine has not commented on the event and the Russian claims could not be independently verified.

Russia-appointed head Denis Pushilin said that the area had been hit by 155mm caliber and 152mm caliber artillery, and that the shells had been fired from the direction of Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka to the west. He also confirmed that emergency services continued to work at the scene.

Reuters news agency photographs and video taken at the scene showed crying people, some of whom said they had lost their relatives, and bodies lying on blood-soaked snow in the area.

In a statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry called the attack "a barbaric act of terrorism" committed by Ukraine, adding it was carried out "with the use of weapons supplied by the West."

Russia also condemned the attack as "a treacherous act against the civilian population," saying, "These terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime clearly demonstrate its lack of political will towards achieving peace and the settlement of this conflict by diplomatic means."

Russia and Ukraine have traded blame over intensified attacks on civilian populations over the past two months.

During its almost two-year invasion of Ukraine, Russian airstrikes and heavy shelling on the sovereign nation have killed thousands of Ukrainian civilians.

The market strike was one of the deadliest on Russian-controlled Donetsk since Moscow attacked Ukraine in February 2022 and claims to have annexed the territory, a move condemned as illegal by most countries in the U.N. General Assembly.

Responding to media questions about the attack, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement that the secretary-general strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including today's shelling of the city of Donetsk in Ukraine.

"Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law, are unacceptable and must stop immediately," the statement said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not speak of the attack in his nightly address but said that in a single day, Russia had shelled more than 100 cities, towns and villages in nine Ukrainian regions and that the attacks in the Donetsk region had been the "most brutal."

He also said, "Russia must feel and remember forever that the aggressor loses the most from aggression."

The Ukrainian leader added that Russia will be held accountable for all this terror. "If it hadn't been for Moscow's decisions to start this aggression and this terror, thousands and thousands of people would be alive today," he said.

Drone attack, massive fire

Meanwhile, Russia's second-largest natural gas producer Novatek said on Sunday it had to suspend some operations at a huge Baltic Sea fuel export terminal due to a fire started by what Ukrainian media said was a drone attack.

The giant Ust-Luga complex, located on the Gulf of Finland about 170 kilometers (110 miles) west of St. Petersburg, ships oil and gas products to international markets.

"The Ust-Luga oil terminal ... is an important facility for the enemy. Fuel is refined there, which, among other things, is also supplied to Russian troops," the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported citing unnamed sources. The news agency also said that according to unnamed sources, the fire was the result of a special operation carried out by Ukraine's security services.

In a statement to Russian media outlet RBC, Novatek also said that the fire was the result of an "external influence."

Yuri Zapalatsky, the head of Russia's 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 toward St. Petersburg Sunday morning, but that they were redirected toward 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. The ministry said that four Ukrainian drones had been downed in Russia's Smolensk region, and that two more had been shot down in the Oryol and Tula regions.

Ground war stalemate

Russian forces also seized the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraine's Kharkiv region, Russia's Ministry of Defense said Sunday.

Ukrainian forces confirmed the report but called the capture of the village a "temporary phenomenon."

The fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces along the roughly 1,500-kilometer front line has remained static throughout the winter.

Some material for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Dublin, Jan. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Asia Pacific Metal Processing Machines Market Forecast to 2028 -Regional Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





Automated Fabrication and Robotics Propel Market Expansion



The latest market insights predict a burgeoning trajectory for the Asia Pacific metal processing machines market, with forecasts projecting an ascent from a valuation of US$ 10,678.24 million in 2023 to an impressive US$ 15,722.67 million by 2030. This growth narrative, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.7% over the specified period, underscores the region's robust industrial dynamism and technological advancements in metal processing.



Drive Towards Automation and Precision Engineering Fuels Market



The integration of automated fabrication processes, complemented by the strategic adoption of robotics, has been instrumental in fuelling market growth across the Asia Pacific region. Advances in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems have revolutionized traditional manufacturing landscapes. Automated solutions have not only reduced reliance on manual labor but have also heightened efficiencies and product quality across the board.



With companies relentlessly pursuing superior operational productivity, the infusion of robotics into metal processing is a game-changer. Precision, accuracy, and repeatability are at the forefront, as robots take on increasingly complex tasks, bolstering productivity levels and streamlining lead times. Such technological advancements are propelling the market onward into new frontiers of efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Regional Market Snapshot: Asia Pacific at the Forefront of Innovation

The burgeoning economies of the Asia Pacific, including pivotal players such as India and China, are on an upward trajectory, characterized by a heightened adoption of cutting-edge technologies.





Incentives like low labor costs, and attractive tax regimes catalyze the establishment of manufacturing infrastructures by global brands within this region.





Strategic expansions and investments by industry giants further attest to the region's vitality and promise as a hub for manufacturing innovation.

Extensive Market Segmentation Highlights Diverse Opportunities



The market report delves deeply into various segments, from press brakes and laser cutting machines to bending machines, offering nuanced insights into each category's growth vectors and contributing sectors. Indications point toward the hydraulic press brake, fiber laser technology within laser cutting machines, and automotive applications as dominant market segments due to their extensive deployment and efficacy in the metal processing domain.

China's preeminence in the Asia Pacific market is affirmed by its major share in the 2023 snapshot, signaling concentrated growth and innovation within the country.

Key Market Players



The landscape is marked by the presence of pioneering companies that shape the industry with their innovative offerings. These entities drive the market forward through technological ingenuity and a steadfast commitment to advancing metal processing capabilities.



In summary, this meticulously compiled market assessment casts light on the key factors propelling the Asia Pacific metal processing machines market, establishing a clear trajectory of amplified growth and technological evolution through 2030. As Asia Pacific continues to cement its position as a burgeoning nexus of manufacturing and technological expertise, its metal processing machines market stands as a testament to the region's unyielding progression and industrial ambition.

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Amada (India) Pvt Ltd

Bystronic AG

Dener USA LLC

LVD Company NV

Prima Industrie SpA

Salvagnini Italia SPA

TRUMPF SE + Co KG

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 179 Forecast Period 2023 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $10678.24 million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $15722.67 million Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.7% Regions Covered Asia Pacific



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ee8w2s

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Jan. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Healthcare Digital Experience Platform Market by Component (Platform, Services), Delivery Mode (Cloud-Based, On-Premises), Application - Forecast 2024-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The latest market research report released today highlights the burgeoning Healthcare Digital Experience Platform Market, which is witnessing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.19%. This significant growth is set to propel the market from an estimated USD 1.59 billion in 2023 to a formidable USD 4.56 billion by the year 2030.

The in-depth report juxtaposes a pervasive analysis of market components, such as the revolutionary digital experience platforms and associated services, against their delivery modes, be they Cloud-Based or On-Premises, across various applications. A key focus of the report is the FPNV Positioning Matrix, directing stakeholders toward an insightful categorization of vendors that align closely with business strategy effectiveness and product satisfaction.

As technology continues to infiltrate the healthcare industry, the digital transformation of patient experiences has become paramount. The Market Share Analysis section of the report elucidates the placement and performance of vendors, offering a granular view of the market's competitive vigor along with insights into customer base and revenue implications. Such dedicated scrutiny encourages strategic business decisions, driving market players to innovate and edge ahead in terms of market share.

As digital experience platforms in healthcare continue to evolve, becoming pivotal to both patient engagement and operational efficiency, this comprehensive report serves as a crucial resource in navigating the market landscape. It arms key players with the intelligence required to thrive in an increasingly competitive and innovative healthcare sector.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 185 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $1.84 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $4.56 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 16.1% Regions Covered Global

Companies Mentioned

Accenture plc

ACL Digital

Adobe Inc.

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation

IBM Corporation

Liferay, Inc.

Net Solutions

OMMAX Ltd.

Oneview Healthcare

Open Text Corporation

Salesforce, Inc.

Sitecore

SoftServe, Inc.

Veriday Inc.

Wipro Limited

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/2onriy

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Power Cable Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on Country and Region - Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The power cable market was valued at $32.20 billion in 2022, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.93% and reach $95.07 billion. A key factor fueling the power cable market is the increasing demand for high-performance data transmission and communication networks. This transformation is driven by a combination of technological advancements, continuous expansion of internet connectivity, the rollout of 5G networks, upcoming 6G technology, and growing needs for data centers.







Another crucial driver is the rise in demand for sustainable power cable products. Concerns about environmental impact and the health hazards posed by traditional cable materials have led to a growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Companies are responding with innovative products, such as high voltage direct current (HVDC) technology wires made of recyclable materials. Initiatives such as Prysmian Group's ECO CABLE label and Philatron's flexible electric vehicle charging cable line reflect the industry's commitment to sustainability.



The advent of Industrial Revolution 4.0 is transforming the power cable landscape, driven by smart manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This shift necessitates cables capable of high-speed data transmission, supporting advanced manufacturing processes, IoT connectivity, energy efficiency, and cybersecurity. Simultaneously, the power cable market experiences a boost from the rising sales of electric vehicles, necessitating specialized cables for power transmission, charging infrastructure, and battery connections. Additionally, the increasing demand for renewable energy sources prompts investments and innovations in cables designed for harsh environmental conditions, further shaping the evolving landscape of the power cable industry.



However, the industry faces several challenges. Fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly copper and aluminum, impact manufacturing costs and profit margins. Government bans on materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a commonly used sheathing material, due to environmental concerns pose challenges for manufacturers in terms of transitioning to more sustainable alternatives. The limited availability of sustainable materials and standardization challenges hinder the industry's efforts to adopt environment-friendly practices.



The evolution of the power cable market is driven by continuous technological advancements aimed at improving cable performance. Innovations include superior shielding techniques, advanced dielectric materials, and connectors designed to minimize signal attenuation. Despite facing competition from alternative technologies such as fiber optics, power cables maintain their robust presence. While fiber optics excel in applications requiring high bandwidth and low signal loss over extended distances, power cables remain thriving, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution, especially in last-mile connectivity for residential and small business applications.



The demand for power cables is intensifying due to environmental concerns, driving a shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. The rise of Industrial Revolution 4.0 emphasizes the need for high-speed data transmission, influencing advanced cable development. Additionally, the surge in electric vehicle sales and the growing demand for renewable energy sources further propel the expanding power cable product consumption.



Market Dynamics:

Demand drivers

Increase of Investments in the Telecommunication Industry

Increase in Demand for Sustainable Power Cable Products

Rise of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Increase in Residential and Commercial Market

Increase in Sales of Electric Vehicles

Rise in the Demand for Energy Produced from Renewable Sources

Key challenges:

Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices

Ban by the Government on Materials Used in Wire and Cable Production

Limited Availability of Sustainable Materials and its Related Standardization Challenges

Challenges Faced by Power Cable Manufacturers Due to Plastic Disposal

Key Market Players Analysis

Belden

Encore Wire

Fujikura

Furukawa Electric

KEI Industries

LEONI

LS Cable & System

Prysmian

Southwire Company

Lapp Group

Sumitomo Electric Industries

HELUKABEL

NKT

R R Kabel

HUBER+SUHNER

Other related companies in the power cable market are:

TF Kable Group

Cable Corporation of India

Universal Cable (M) Berhad

Polycab India

Walsin Lihwa

CMI

Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 134 Forecast Period 2023 - 2032 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $37.36 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2032 $95.07 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 10.9% Regions Covered Global





Key Topics Covered:



Executive Summary



Scope of the Study



1 Markets

1.1 Industry Outlook

1.1.1 Trends: Current and Future

1.1.1.1 Increase in Use of Renewable Energy

1.1.1.2 Expansion of Smart Grids, Power Transmission, and Distribution Network

1.1.1.3 Increase in Emphasis on Safety and Sustainability

1.1.1.4 Rise in Government Initiatives for Urbanization and Expanding Infrastructure

1.1.2 Supply Chain Analysis

1.1.2.1 Sourcing Raw Material

1.1.2.2 Production

1.1.2.3 Transportation

1.1.2.4 Product Customization

1.1.2.5 End User

1.2 Ecosystem/Ongoing Programs

1.2.1 Regulatory Bodies

1.2.2 Government Programs

1.2.3 Programs by Research Institutions and Universities

1.2.4 Sustainable Initiatives of Key Players

1.3 Business Dynamics

1.3.1 Business Drivers

1.3.1.1 Increase of Investments in the Telecommunications Industry

1.3.1.2 Increase in Demand for Sustainable Power Cable Products

1.3.1.3 Rise of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Increase in Residential and Commercial Market

1.3.1.4 Increase in Sales of Electric Vehicles

1.3.1.5 Rise in the Demand for Energy Produced from Renewable Sources

1.3.2 Business Challenges

1.3.2.1 Fluctuations in Raw Material Prices

1.3.2.2 Ban by the Government on Materials Used in Wire and Cable Production

1.3.2.3 Limited Availability of Sustainable Materials and its Related Standardization Challenges

1.3.2.4 Challenges Faced by Power Cable Manufacturers Due to Plastic Disposal

1.3.3 Business Opportunities

1.3.3.1 Increasing Investments in the Transmission and Distribution of Electric Power Sector

1.3.3.2 Increasing Demand for Deployment of Sustainable Technologies for Power Generation

1.3.3.3 Expansion of Submarine Power Transmission Projects



2 Region

2.1 North America

2.2 Europe

2.3 Asia-Pacific and Japan

2.4 Middle East and Africa

2.5 Rest-of-the-World



3 Markets - Competitive Benchmarking & Company Profiles

Belden

Encore Wire

Fujikura

Furukawa Electric

KEI Industries

LEONI

LS Cable & System

Prysmian

Southwire Company

Lapp Group

Sumitomo Electric Industries

HELUKABEL

NKT

R R Kabel

HUBER+SUHNER

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/f4lvw3

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Consumer Packaging Strategies: Adapting to Cost Pressures" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Understanding the New Landscape of Consumer Packaging Amidst Rising Costs

The ever-evolving world of consumer packaging is facing a complex array of challenges, with rising raw material prices and increased operating costs affecting the value chain. This new research publication provides a comprehensive analysis of the consumer packaging market and offers insight into innovative strategies that are allowing brands to adapt and thrive.

Innovative Packaging Solutions Propel Industry Forward



As the briefing reveals, major players in the packaging domain are now leveraging packaging innovations to mitigate the impact of cost pressures. The push for sustainability doubles as a cost-saving measure and an enhancement to brand reputation, potentially influencing consumer purchases.

Advanced strategies highlighted include the use of flexible packaging formats that optimize distribution and storage.

Key insights into the proliferation of diversified packaging sizes cater to consumer affordability.

The briefing underscores sustainability not only as an obligation but as a strategic opportunity.

Global Insights and Forecasting to Inform Future Success



The publication covers essential data including market sizes, historic trends, and forecasts, as well as company and brand shares. These metrics offer a crystal-clear view of the current packaging market and help anticipate its future directions.

Growth Sectors and Influencing Factors

Brands looking to capitalize on growth will find the report invaluable, as it pinpoints sectors ripe for expansion and delves into the various factors driving market changes. The analysis comprehensively addresses the influences shaping the packaging market, from lifestyle trends to economic shifts and environmental legislation.

Strategic Market Predictions for Future-Proofing Businesses

The briefing goes beyond present-day analysis to provide forecasts up to five years into the future, empowering businesses with the foresight required to navigate the changing tides of the packaging industry. These projections are critical for strategic planning and ensuring long-term success in the competitive packaging landscape.

Key Topics Covered:

Key Findings

Redesign to improve affordability

Sustainability and regulation

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/s77197

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
HOUSTON, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- W&T Offshore, Inc. (NYSE: WTI) (the Company or W&T) today announced that the Company has completed the accretive acquisition of six fields in shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico. W&T was the successful bidder for certain synergistic assets in the Gulf of Mexico offered by MLCJR LLC, Cox Oil Offshore, L.L.C., Cox Operating, L.L.C., Energy XXI GOM, LLC, Energy XXI Gulf Coast, LLC, EPL Oil & Gas, LLC and M21K, LLC (collectively, the Debtors), as described in the Order Approving the Purchase And Sale Agreement With W&T Offshore, Inc. issued on January 16, 2024, the closing and effective date of the transaction. The final purchase price for the assets was $72.0 million, excluding certain closing costs, which was funded from the Companys cash on hand. Key highlights of the transaction are as follows:



Provides strong producing properties, all of which are 100% working interest (average 82% net revenue interest) and are located adjacent to W&T existing area of operations; The six fields acquired include Eugene Island 064, Main Pass 061, Mobile 904, Mobile 916, South Pass 049 and West Delta 073;

Includes estimated production that has ranged from approximately 3,700 to 5,700 barrels of oil equivalent per day ("BOEPD") (around 68% liquids) during the period month-to-date January 19, 2024. The Company believes that it can meaningfully increase production on these properties through workovers, recompletions and facility repairs; The six fields acquired produced approximately 8,300 BOEPD (48% liquids) on average in April 2023, the month prior to the bankruptcy filing by the Debtors in May 2023;

Adds significant proved reserves (1P) of 18.7 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMBOE) (62% liquids) as of January 1, 2024 at year-end 2023 SEC pricing with a present value discounted at 10% (PV-10) value of $250.4 million 1 based on an independent engineering report prepared by Netherland Sewell and Associates (NSAI);

based on an independent engineering report prepared by Netherland Sewell and Associates (NSAI); Provides material upside with proved plus probable reserves (2P) of 60.6 MMBOE (78% liquids) as of January 1, 2024 at year-end 2023 SEC pricing with a PV-10 value of $629.2 million 1 based on an independent engineering report prepared by NSAI; and

based on an independent engineering report prepared by NSAI; and Accretive cash multiple of approximately 1.0x last twelve months asset cash flows as of October 31, 20232, and production multiple of approximately $16,950 per BOEPD based on average estimated production range for the period month-to-date January 19, 2024.



Tracy W. Krohn, Chairman, President and CEO, commented, We are very pleased to announce our second accretive acquisition of GOM producing properties in the last four months. As was the case with the purchase announced in September 2023, the producing properties included in the acquisition announced today meet the time-tested investment criteria we have used for all acquisitions. These assets have attractive production rates, are generating positive free cash flow, and have a solid base of proved developed reserves and identified upside potential with strong 2P reserves. We plan to increase production in the near-term with capital-efficient, low-cost workover, recompletion and maintenance projects. We expect to realize synergies on these new assets due to their close proximity to our existing fields, which can reduce operating costs and further increase free cash flow. Combined with our acquisition last fall, we have added almost 22 million barrels of oil equivalent of proved reserves for about $104 million, or around $4.75 per BOE, which we believe is a very attractive price for properties with significant upside. We plan to continue to utilize our strong balance sheet and expertise in acquiring complementary GOM assets to further enhance the scale of W&T. Acquisitions continue to be a key component of how we build and grow value, reserves and production at W&T, and we are well positioned to continue to execute on our successful strategy.

The six fields acquired include Eugene Island 064, Main Pass 061, Mobile 904, Mobile 916, South Pass 049 and West Delta 073, all of which include a 100% working interest and an average 82% net revenue interest. They are located in water depths ranging between approximately 15 and 400 feet. Their proximity to W&Ts areas of existing operations provide the ability for W&T to capture synergies. Recent estimated production for the fields has ranged from approximately 3,700 to 5,700 BOEPD (around 68% liquids) during the period month-to-date January 19, 2024. W&T plans to implement a series of workovers, recompletions and general maintenance work that the Company expects will increase total production from the fields.

As a result of this additional accretive acquisition, W&T plans to invest additional funds for increasing production and reducing costs in these assets long term. The Company now plans to defer the drilling of Holy Grail, which is a proven undeveloped well in our Magnolia field. The Company will be exploring a Drilling Joint Venture, similar to what it did with investors in 2018 through Monza Energy LLC, that may include certain of the Companys 100% owned and operated deepwater wells, including Holy Grail (approximately 3,900 feet of water), Thunderbolt (approximately 500 feet of water), Zeus (approximately 500 feet of water) and Redbolt (approximately 500 feet of water). Additionally, the Company plans to drill at least one shelf exploratory well in the Drilling Joint Venture. We believe that such a structure aligns investor interests and provides ongoing liquidity through cash distributions. Additional information and expectations from the acquisitions will be incorporated into W&Ts 2024 guidance that will be discussed during the Companys year-end 2023 conference call in early March.

About W&T Offshore

W&T Offshore, Inc. is an independent oil and natural gas producer with operations offshore in the Gulf of Mexico and has grown through acquisitions, exploration and development. As of September 30, 2023, the Company had working interests in 54 fields in federal and state waters (which include 45 fields in federal waters and nine in state waters). The Company has under lease approximately 602,100 gross acres (446,800 net acres) spanning across the outer continental shelf off the coasts of Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Alabama, with approximately 440,600 gross acres on the conventional shelf, approximately 153,500 gross acres in the deepwater and 8,000 gross acres in Alabama onshore. A majority of the Companys daily production is derived from wells it operates. For more information on W&T, please visit the Companys website at www.wtoffshore.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, statements regarding the benefits of the acquisition, expected synergies, expected production and increases in production, expected cash flow generated by the assets, uses of capital, drilling and operations plans and potential joint ventures and financing structures, and other statements herein, reflect our current views with respect to future events, based on what we believe are reasonable estimates and assumptions. No assurance can be given, however, that these events will occur or that our expectations will be correct. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially including, among other things, risks pertaining to the integration of the assets, market conditions, commodity price volatility, uncertainties inherent in oil and gas production operations and estimating reserves, uncertainties of the timing and impact of bringing new wells online and repairing and restoring infrastructure due to hurricane damage, the ability to achieve leverage targets, unexpected future capital expenditures, competition, the success of our risk management activities, governmental regulations, uncertainties and other factors described or referenced in W&Ts Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q found at www.sec.gov or on our website at www.wtoffshore.com under the Investor Relations section. Our forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon assumptions made, and information known, by the Company as of the date of this release; the Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking statements as such assumptions and information changes, except as required under applicable law. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosures and risk factors in these reports.

W&T OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Non-GAAP Information

The Company has disclosed the present value of future net pre-tax cash flows attributable to estimated net proved (1P) and net probable (2P) reserves, discounted at 10% (PV-10), which is not a financial measure defined under GAAP. Both PV-10 and PV-10 after Asset Retirement Obligation (ARO) are computed on the same basis as the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows but does not include a provision for federal income taxes. Management believes that PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO are relevant and useful for evaluating the relative monetary significance of oil and natural gas properties. PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO are used internally when assessing the potential return on investment related to oil and natural gas properties and in evaluating acquisition opportunities. W&T believes the use of pre-tax measures, including PV-10, is valuable because there are many unique factors that can impact an individual company when estimating the amount of future income taxes to be paid. Management believes that both PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO provide useful information to investors because they are widely used by professional analysts and sophisticated investors in evaluating oil and natural gas companies. PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO are not measures of financial or operating performance under GAAP, nor is it intended to represent the current market value of W&Ts estimated oil and natural gas reserves. PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows as defined under GAAP.

The table below provides a reconciliation of PV-10 and PV-10 after ARO to the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows (in millions of dollars):

1P 2P Standardized measure $ 184.2 $ 472.3 Future income taxes, discounted at 10% 43.2 132.5 PV-10 after ARO (Non-GAAP) 227.4 604.8 Present value of estimated ARO, discounted at 10%3 23.0 24.4 PV-10 (Non-GAAP) $ 250.4 $ 629.2





CONTACTS: Al Petrie Sameer Parasnis Investor Relations Coordinator Executive VP and CFO investorrelations@wtoffshore.com sparasnis@wtoffshore.com 713-297-8024 713-513-8654





1 PV-10 is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is described and reconciled to the most comparable GAAP measure below in the accompanying table under Non-GAAP Information.

2 Based on the latest available lease operating statement provided by the Debtors.

3 Estimates for Asset Retirement Obligation are internal management estimates and subject to change.
ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. (OTCQB: KBLB) ("the Company"), shares an update on near-term commercial applications and opportunities for recombinant spider silk as the Company prepares for expanding production in 2024. Spider silk has long been prized for its unique blend of chemical and mechanical properties, including strength and elasticity.



Kraig Labs is currently in the process of ramping up production trials of its recombinant spider silk under the trademark Dragon Silk. The move to ramp up production follows on the heels of the Company's successful early production test announced in December.

During the ramp-up phase, while production quantities are relatively limited, the Company is targeting end-product applications in fashion and performance apparel. "Because production quantities will be relatively limited during the early stages of the production ramp-up, and because we will have control of that limited supply of Dragon Silk, it makes sense for us to focus on markets where we can control the end use of the Dragon Silk That will allow us to potentially share in a portion of the value-added manufacturing and distribution beyond the creation of the recombinant spider silk itself," said Company Founder and CEO, Kim Thompson. "In essence, we are looking for partial vertical integration in these early spider silk products to maximize our market position.

As production quantities increase, the Company expects to begin addressing demand from additional market segments, including:

Engineering textiles

Composites

Cosmetics

Defensive and protective textiles

Bio-plastics that are biodegradable and bio-compatible

Fiber optics

Medical textiles, fibers, ligaments, wound dressings, skin grafts, and tissue engineering



The Company believes that the enhanced strength and toughness of its Dragon Silk line of materials, combined with their bio-degradable and biocompatible properties, will be able to address existing material needs in these markets and many more.

Kraig Labs has already begun early-stage exploration into bio-plastics, medical textiles, cosmetics & defensive textile applications and expects to accelerate work in these fields as production of spider silk increases.

To view the most recent news from Kraig Labs and/or to sign up for Company alerts, please go to www.KraigLabs.com/news

About Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc.

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, Inc. ( www.KraigLabs.com ), a reporting biotechnology company is the leading developer of genetically engineered spider silk based fiber technologies.

The Company has achieved a series of scientific breakthroughs in the area of spider silk technology with implications for the global textile industry.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Information

Statements in this press release about the Company's future and expectations other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements." These statements are made on the basis of management's current views and assumptions. As a result, there can be no assurance that management's expectations will necessarily come to pass. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as "believes," "plans," "expects," "anticipates," "foresees," "estimated," "hopes," "if," "develops," "researching," "research," "pilot," "potential," "could" or other words or phrases of similar import. Forward looking statements include descriptions of the Company's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions and goals. All such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security.
FULL CONTACT HIGH-GRADE Au TARGET HIGHLIGHTS:



The new high-grade Full Contact discovery consists of a 1.4 km trend on the  Red Line  (the contact between Stuhini and Hazelton Group rocks ) within which are multiple gossans with samples that assayed up to 101.13 g/t AuEq (101.00 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag) and remains open.

An accompanying infographic is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca039c63-8614-42a1-8c5c-38e71e26bb5f



The Full Contact discovery contains multiple silicified zones, quartz veins up to 14 m wide, and shear zones, containing strong widespread gold-sulphide mineralization over a 700 meter trend with grades up to 101.13 g/t AuEq or 3.25 oz/t AuEq (101.00 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag) that remains wide open in all directions.

An accompanying infographic is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c553221-a538-4933-93f6-afce88c4bbfd

A 70-meter-wide of mineralized quartz veins and breccia that remains open in all directions has been identified in the immediate surroundings of the 101.13 g/t AuEq sample.



Full Contact discovery shares the same geological setting and alteration as the Bonanza Shear, part of the Surebet Discovery with mineralization forming around the volcanic-sedimentary units' contact .

Mineralization at Full Contact consists primarily of pyrite, with lesser arsenopyrite and sphalerite disseminated within silicified zones, concentrating in veins and fractures.

The new Full Contact discovery is located on the southern side of Goliaths Cambria Icefields claim blocks, 19 kilometers northwest of the Surebet Zone. An accompanying infographic is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0f6bc29b-b8e3-400d-b22f-0ffc3bb533b5



The new Full Contact target is drill ready and could quickly evolve into a significant new discovery. Additional follow-up work along the 1.4 km trend that remains open would include further prospecting, channel cutting and mapping to outline the full extent of this discovery that remains open in preparation for future drilling.

The new Full Contact outcrop has only recently been exposed as a result of exponential glacial retreat and permanent snowpack abatement confirming the excellent remaining discovery potential on the 100% controlled Golddigger property covering over 64,000 hectares.

The new Full Contact target demonstrates the excellent untapped potential for additional discoveries on the Golddigger property, which encompasses 56 km of the Red Line, and could quickly evolve into another material discovery.



Multiple additional high-grade gold-silver-base-metals showings were discovered on the Cambria Icefields claims along the Red Line and will be further explored during the 2024 field season in preparation for future drilling.

An accompanying infographic is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ec1c755a-a1d2-410c-a97c-9445e145c4db





TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Goliath Resources Limited (TSX-V: GOT) (OTCQB: GOTRF) (FSE: B4IF) (the Company or Goliath) is excited to report the discovery of the new high-grade gold Full Contact target that remains open on the Cambria Icefields at its 100% controlled Golddigger Property (the Property), Golden Triangle, British Columbia. The new target contains grab samples that assayed up to 101.13 g/t AuEq or 3.25 oz/t AuEq (101.00 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag). The target has only recently been exposed as a result of glacial abatement and is drill ready.

The new high-grade Full Contact discovery is located 19 km northwest of the Surebet Zone on the Cambria Icefields and consists of a 1.4 km trend on the Red Line (the contact between Stuhini and Hazelton Group rocks) within which are multiple gossans, Full Contact remains open. The area contains multiple silicified zones, quartz veins up to 14 m wide, and shear zones, containing strong widespread gold-sulphide mineralization over a 700 meter trend with grades up to 101.13 g/t AuEq (101.00 g/t Au and 10 g/t Ag) that remains wide open in all directions. A 70-meter-wide zone of mineralized quartz veins and breccia that remains open in all directions has been identified in the immediate surroundings of the 101.13 g/t AuEq sample. The Full Contact discovery shares the same geological setting and alteration as the Bonanza Shear, part of the Surebet Discovery with mineralization forming around the volcanic-sedimentary units' contact. Mineralization consists primarily of pyrite, with lesser arsenopyrite and sphalerite disseminated within silicified zones, concentrating in veins and fractures.

The Full Contact target is drill ready and can quickly evolve into a significant new discovery. Additional follow-up work along the 1.4 km trend that remains open would also include further prospecting, channel cutting and mapping to outline the full extent of this discovery that remains open in preparation for additional drilling.

The Full Contact outcrop has only just very recently been exposed as a result of exponential glacial retreat and permanent snowpack abatement confirming the excellent remaining discovery potential on the 100% controlled Golddigger property covering over 64,000 hectares. It demonstrates the excellent untapped potential for additional discoveries on the Golddigger property, which encompasses 56 km of the Red Line and could quickly evolve into another material discovery.

Table 1: 2023 grab and chip samples from the Full Contact target.

Sample ID Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (%) Pb (%) Zn (%) AuEq (g/t) ST116361 101.00 10.00 0.01 0.01 0.00 101.13 ST115867 0.95 40.50 1.04 0.01 0.02 2.82 ST116169 0.42 0.70 0.01 0.00 0.03 0.46 ST116168 0.18 0.94 0.02 0.00 0.01 0.21 ST112559 0.04 10.55 0.11 0.00 0.01 0.31

Multiple additional high-grade gold-silver-base-metals showings have been identified on the Cambria Icefields claims. These showings will be further explored during the 2024 field season in preparation for future drilling and include the previously announced Treasure Island discovery, Metallica showing, Honey Pot and Big One, as well as some new showings. More prospecting, sampling, and mapping is required in order to assess and expand on their mineral potential.

Roger Rosmus, Founder and CEO of Goliath Resources, states: The new Full Contact is another great discovery of high-grade gold the team has made that is right on the Red Line located within the Cambria Icefields claims of the Golddigger property. Multi-ounce gold samples such as the 101.13 g/t AuEq sample, clearly show the extraordinary untapped discovery potential remaining on the Golddigger property. The continued success of exploration on the Cambria Icefields further validates the Companys vision to hold these newly evolving assets into a new company 100% owned by Goliath for a potential spin-out dividend to unlock additional value for our shareholders.

Golddigger Property

The Golddigger Property is 100% controlled covering an area of 64,264 hectares (158,800 acres) and is in the world class geological setting of the Eskay Rift within the Golden Triangle of British Columbia and within 3 kilometers of the Red Line that is host to multiple world class deposits.

The Surebet discovery has exceptional metallurgy with gold recoveries of 92.2% inclusive of 48.8% free gold from gravity alone at a 327-micrometer crush (no deleterious elements and no cyanide required to recover the gold based on metallurgical work completed to date).

It is in an excellent location in close proximity to the communities of Alice Arm and Kitsault where there is a permitted mill site on private property. It is situated on tide water with direct barge access to Prince Rupert (190 kilometers via the Observatory inlet/Portland inlet). The town of Kitsault is accessible by road (190 kilometers from Terrace, 300 kilometers from Prince Rupert) and has a barge landing, dock, and infrastructure capable of housing at least 300 people, including high-tension power.

Additional infrastructure in the area includes the Dolly Varden Silver Mine Road (only 7 kilometers to the East of the Surebet discovery) with direct road access to Alice Arm barge landing (18 kilometers to the south of the Surebet discovery) and high-tension power (25 kilometers to the East of Surebet discovery). The city of Terrace (population 16,000) provides access to railway, major highways, and airport with supplies (food, fuel, lumber, etc.), while the town of Prince Rupert (population 12,000) is located on the west coast and houses an international container seaport also with direct access to railway and an airport with supplies.

Qualified Person

Rein Turna P. Geo is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, for Goliath Resource Limited projects, and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.

Other

Oriented HQ-diameter or NQ-diameter diamond drill core from the drill campaign is placed in core boxes by the drill crew contracted by the Company. Core boxes are transported by helicopter to the staging area, and then transported by truck to the core shack. The core is then re-orientated, meterage blocks are checked, meter marks are labelled, Recovery and RQD measurements taken, and primary bedding and secondary structural features including veins, dykes, cleavage, and shears are noted and measured. The core is then described and transcribed in MX DepositTM. Drill holes were planned using Leapfrog GeoTM and QGISTM software and data from the 2017-2022 exploration campaigns. Drill core containing quartz breccia, stockwork, veining and/or sulphide(s), or notable alteration are sampled in lengths of 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Core samples are cut lengthwise in half, one-half remains in the box and the other half is inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag. Standards, blanks and duplicates were added in the sample stream at a rate of 10%.

Grab, channels, chip, and talus samples were collected by foot with helicopter assistance. Prospective areas included, but were not limited to, proximity to MINFile locations, placer creek occurrences, regional soil anomalies, and potential gossans based on high-resolution satellite imagery. The rock grab and chip samples were extracted using a rock hammer, or hammer and chisel to expose fresh surfaces and to liberate a sample of anywhere between 0.5 to 5.0 kilograms. All sample sites were flagged with biodegradable flagging tape and marked with the sample number. All sample sites were recorded using hand-held GPS units (accuracy 3-10 meters) and sample ID, easting, northing, elevation, type of sample (outcrop, subcrop, float, talus, chip, grab, etc.) and a description of the rock were recorded on all-weather paper. Samples were then inserted in a clean plastic bag with a sample tag for transport and shipping to the geochemistry lab. QA/QC samples including blanks, standards, and duplicate samples were inserted regularly into the sample sequence at a rate of 10%.

All samples are transported in rice bags sealed with numbered security tags. A transport company takes them from the core shack to the ALS labs facilities in North Vancouver. ALS is either certified to ISO 9001:2008 or accredited to ISO 17025:2005 in all of its locations. At ALS samples were processed, dried, crushed, and pulverized before analysis using the ME-MS61 and Au-SCR21 methods. For the ME-MS61 method, a prepared sample is digested with perchloric, nitric, hydrofluoric, and hydrochloric acids. The residue is topped up with dilute hydrochloric acid and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Overlimits were re-analyzed using the ME-OG62 and Ag-GRA21 methods (gravimetric finish). For Au-SCR21 a large volume of sample is needed (typically 1-3kg). The sample is crushed and screened (usually to -106 micron) to separate coarse gold particles from fine material. After screening, two aliquots of the fine fraction are analysed using the traditional fire assay method. The fine fraction is expected to be reasonably homogenous and well represented by the duplicate analyses. The entire coarse fraction is assayed to determine the contribution of the coarse gold.

The reader is cautioned that grab samples are spot samples which are typically, but not exclusively, constrained to mineralization. Grab samples are selective in nature and collected to determine the presence or absence of mineralization and are not intended to be representative of the material sampled.

About Goliath Resources Limited

Goliath Resources Limited is an explorer of precious metals projects in the prolific Golden Triangle of northwestern British Columbia and Abitibi Greenstone Belt of Quebec. All of its projects are in world class geological settings and geopolitical safe jurisdictions amenable to mining in Canada.

For more information please contact:

Goliath Resources Limited

Mr. Roger Rosmus

Founder and CEO

Tel: +1.416.488.2887

roger@goliathresources.com

www.goliathresourcesltd.com

Widths are reported in drill core lengths and the true widths are estimated to be 80-90% and AuEq metal values are calculated using: AuEq metal values are calculated using: Au 1924.79 USD/oz, Ag 22.76 USD/oz, Cu 3.75 USD/lbs, Pb 2128.75 USD/ton and Zn 2468.50 USD/ton on December 23, 2023. There is potential for economic recovery of gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc from these occurrences based on other mining and exploration projects in the same Golden Triangle Mining Camp where Goliaths project is located such as the Homestake Ridge Gold Project (Auryn Resources Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate and Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Homestake Ridge Gold Project, prepared by Minefill Services Inc. Bothell, Washington, dated May 29, 2020). Here, AuEq values were calculated using 3-year running averages for metal price, and included provisions for metallurgical recoveries, treatment charges, refining costs, and transportation. Recoveries for Gold were 85.5%, Silver at 74.6%, Copper at 74.6% and Lead at 45.3%. It will be assumed that Zinc can be recovered with the Copper at the same recovery rate of 74.6%. The quoted reference of metallurgical recoveries is not from Goliaths Golddigger Project, Surebet Zone mineralization, and there is no guarantee that such recoveries will ever be achieved, unless detailed metallurgical work such as in a Feasibility Study can be eventually completed on the Golddigger Project.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange), nor the OTCQB Venture Market accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Goliaths current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the ability of the Company to complete financings and its ability to build value for its shareholders as it develops its mining properties. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Goliath. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the proposed transactions will occur, or that if the proposed transactions do occur, will be completed on the terms described above.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and Goliath is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

This announcement does not constitute an offer, invitation, or recommendation to subscribe for or purchase any securities and neither this announcement nor anything contained in it shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. In particular, this announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer would be illegal.

The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.




VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FIREWEED METALS CORP. (Fireweed or the Company) (TSXV: FWZ; OTCQB: FWEDF; FSE: M0G) is pleased to report the final results from the 2023 Boundary Zone drilling campaign at its Macmillan Pass (Macpass) Project, Yukon, Canada.



Highlights

Hole NB23-036 intersected 45.22 m of 18.98% zinc, 2.24% lead and 114.9 g/t silver (44 m true width) including 39.22 m of 20.84% zinc, 2.48% lead and 115.4 g/t silver.

Hole NB23-037 intersected 118.36 m of 11.58% zinc, 1.75% lead and 54.9 g/t silver (47 m true width) including 27.63 m of 19.06% zinc, 0.74% lead and 58.2 g/t silver.

Assays are pending for 11 holes from the Tom deposit, and two holes from the Jason deposit.

CEO Statement

Brandon Macdonald, CEO, stated, 2023 was a pivotal year at Boundary Zone in which we discovered a high-grade feeder system that connects the mineralization and forms a continuous zone with increasing grade and true widths at depth. These final results exemplify the spectacular grades that we see at this best-in-class project, with holes from this year containing not just the feeder zone, but also the vein mineralization halo around it that contains some remarkably high-grade breccias. These final holes from the 2023 season solidify Boundary Zone as a significant addition to the Macpass project, and with a few holes still pending from Tom and Jason, we are looking forward to integrating all results into a mineral resource estimate in the coming months to begin to understand the enormity of the mineral endowment within this premier zinc district.

Summary

The mineralization from drill holes in this release primarily comprises stratiform (layer-parallel) and massive (>50% sulphides) sulphides in the western and central areas of Boundary Zone. This mineralization is sub-vertical with sharp margins, occurring from near-surface to at least a depth of 450 m and across a strike length of 550 m. We also report intersections of vein and breccia mineralization that occur on both sides of the tabular stratiform sulphide zones. The intersection in holes NB23-036 and NB23-037 continue to demonstrate high zinc, lead, and silver grades that are interpreted as forming from higher temperature fluids in association with a feeder zone supplying metals to a mineralized system.

Results

The drill holes in this release are located in the central and western areas of Boundary Zone and targeted the stratiform to massive sulphide body with a focus on stepping out from known feeder-style mineralization. Holes NB23-036 and NB23-037 intersected broad, high-grade intervals of massive sulphides rich in zinc, lead, and silver that are correlated with this interpreted feeder zone. Stratiform massive sulphides were also intersected in NB23-034 and NB23-038. Breccia and vein mineralization was intersected in NB23-033, NB23-034, NB23-035 and NB23-036, NB23-037 and NB23-038.

Table 1: Assay highlights for holes included within this release for the 2023 drilling program, Boundary Zone

Drillhole Interval From (m) To (m) Interval Width (m) Est. True Width (m)  Zinc (%) Lead (%) Silver (g/t) Bulk Density (t/m3) NB23-034 Primary 426.78 479.78 53.00 21 12.07 1.05 53.6 4.05 NB23-034 Including 436.87 472.38 35.51 14 15.61 0.92 57.0 4.07 NB23-035 Primary 396.96 417.18 20.22 Unknown 6.51 1.15 51.5 3.54 NB23-036 Primary 95.50 171.32 75.82 N/A 4.21 0.25 9.9 2.87 NB23-036 Including 108.87 121.5 12.63 N/A 6.97 0.32 16.6 3.10 NB23-036 >Including 108.87 112.56 3.69 N/A 14.41 0.08 17.4 3.23 NB23-036 Including 156.00 171.32 15.32 N/A 7.31 0.90 19.1 2.87 NB23-036 Primary 210.33 255.55 45.22 44 18.98 2.24 114.9 4.13 NB23-036 Including 235.64 243.74 8.10 7.9 28.90 4.75 142.2 3.95 NB23-036 Primary 304.06 381.99 77.93 N/A 2.58 0.31 9.8 3.25 NB23-036 Including 328.18 334.21 6.03 N/A 5.37 0.08 7.1 3.25 NB23-037 Primary 352.74 471.1 118.36 47 11.58 1.75 54.9 3.81 NB23-037 >Including 353.71 360.34 6.63 2.6 15.89 3.39 158.7 4.40 NB23-037 >Including 405.68 433.31 27.63 11 19.06 0.74 58.2 3.78

N/A: Not Applicable due to the variable shapes of breccia and vein mineralization.

 See Data Verification for a description of true width calculations

Fireweed successfully intersected extensive pyrite-sphalerite-galena as stratiform massive sulphides, laminated mineralization, veins, and breccias in the 2023 step-outs (Photos 1 to 3). Mineralization has been intersected in every step-out hole that has been completed to depth. Assays have now been received for all 2023 Boundary Zone holes (Tables 1 and 2). Summaries for new drill results reported in this news release are as follows:

Hole NB23-036 intersected 45.22 m (estimated true width of 44 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 18.98% zinc, 2.24% lead, and 114.9 g/t silver, a near surface interval of breccia and vein mineralization 75.82 m in width grading 4.21% zinc, 0.25% lead and 9.9 g/t silver and another interval of breccia and vein mineralization 77.93 m in width grading 2.58% zinc, 0.31% lead and 9.8 g/t silver.

intersected 45.22 m (estimated true width of 44 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 18.98% zinc, 2.24% lead, and 114.9 g/t silver, a near surface interval of breccia and vein mineralization 75.82 m in width grading 4.21% zinc, 0.25% lead and 9.9 g/t silver and another interval of breccia and vein mineralization 77.93 m in width grading 2.58% zinc, 0.31% lead and 9.8 g/t silver. Hole NB23-037 intersected 118.36 m (estimated true width of 47 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 11.58% zinc, 1.75% lead and 54.9 g/t silver, as well as two near surface intervals of breccia and vein mineralization 11.57 m in width grading 8.05% zinc and 14.6 g/t silver and 2.95 m in width grading 10.20% zinc and 14.8 g/t silver.

intersected 118.36 m (estimated true width of 47 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 11.58% zinc, 1.75% lead and 54.9 g/t silver, as well as two near surface intervals of breccia and vein mineralization 11.57 m in width grading 8.05% zinc and 14.6 g/t silver and 2.95 m in width grading 10.20% zinc and 14.8 g/t silver. Hole NB23-034 intersected 53.00 m (estimated true width of 21 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 12.07% zinc, 1.05% lead and 53.6 g/t silver, and also an interval of breccia and vein mineralization 25.96 m in width grading 3.97% zinc and 8.9 g/t silver.

intersected 53.00 m (estimated true width of 21 m) of laminated and massive sulphides grading 12.07% zinc, 1.05% lead and 53.6 g/t silver, and also an interval of breccia and vein mineralization 25.96 m in width grading 3.97% zinc and 8.9 g/t silver. Hole NB23-035 intersected 20.22 m of stratiform and massive sulphide with an unknown true width grading 6.51% zinc, 1.15% lead and 51.5 g/t silver as well as three near surface intervals of breccia and vein mineralization: 5.17 m grading 17.81% zinc and 19.1 g/t silver; 6.36 m grading 5.94% zinc, 0.15% lead and 9.8 g/t silver; and 6.45 m grading 3.00% zinc and 4.2 g/t silver.

intersected 20.22 m of stratiform and massive sulphide with an unknown true width grading 6.51% zinc, 1.15% lead and 51.5 g/t silver as well as three near surface intervals of breccia and vein mineralization: 5.17 m grading 17.81% zinc and 19.1 g/t silver; 6.36 m grading 5.94% zinc, 0.15% lead and 9.8 g/t silver; and 6.45 m grading 3.00% zinc and 4.2 g/t silver. Hole NB23-038 intersected 12.91 m (estimated true width of 9.0 m) of stratiform and massive sulphide grading 5.00% zinc, 0.97% lead and 44.4 g/t silver, and an interval of breccia and vein mineralization 23.16 m in width grading 2.04% zinc and 7.8 g/t silver.

intersected 12.91 m (estimated true width of 9.0 m) of stratiform and massive sulphide grading 5.00% zinc, 0.97% lead and 44.4 g/t silver, and an interval of breccia and vein mineralization 23.16 m in width grading 2.04% zinc and 7.8 g/t silver. Hole NB23-033 intersected three intervals of breccia and vein mineralization: 4.76 m grading 12.10% zinc, 0.61% lead and 27.2 g/t silver; 8.76 m grading 3.05% zinc and 5.9 g/t silver; and 6.58 m grading 5.55% zinc and 5.8 g/t silver.

See Tables 1 to 4, Long Section MM, Cross Sections CC, KK, NN, RR, SS and Maps 2 and 3 below for further details.

Out of the 39 holes that were successfully completed to depth at Boundary Zone in 2023, only 3 were infill holes; the remaining 36 were step-out holes that tested the vein and breccia mineralization, laminated stratiform mineralization, and massive sulphide zones. The geometry and stratigraphic sequence intersected in these holes continue to support the idea that the laminated and massive sulphide mineralization are part of the same geological layer at Boundary Zone, forming an approximately tabular stratiform zone. Step out drilling down-dip intersected abundant galena, supporting the presence of the conceptual feeder zone at least 220 m in strike. The mineralization in the massive stratiform layer extends from surface to at least 450 m down-dip, over 550 m in strike with a variable true thickness that is shown on Long Section MM, thinning around the edges and reaching thicknesses of up to 50 m at its widest point. The zone remains open for extension.

Extensive vein and breccia mineralization at Boundary Zone occurs both stratigraphically above and below the main stratiform laminated massive sulphide zone. This mineralization forms within a halo approximately 100 m to 150 m wide on both sides of the stratiform laminated zone and is interpreted as a stockwork of randomly oriented veins and breccia zones. Many wide intervals of vein and breccia style sphalerite mineralization have been encountered in 2023 step-out holes and four infill holes (Table 3).

2023 Drill Program

The 2023 program achieved 22,500 m of drilling mostly focused on Boundary, Tom, and Jason zones in addition to five metallurgical drill holes at Mactung (Map 1). Use of directional drilling, in which multiple secondary drill holes are initiated at depth from one primary hole, saved an estimated 1,800 m of drilling compared to traditional drilling of multiple new holes from surface for a total equivalent metreage of 24,300 m in 2023. This was Fireweeds largest ever program and the biggest drill program in Yukon in 2023.

About Fireweed Metals Corp. (TSXV: FWZ; OTCQB: FWEDF; FSE:M0G): Fireweed Metals is a public mineral exploration company on the leading edge of Critical Minerals project development. Fireweed is well-funded, with a healthy balance sheet, and has three projects located in Canada:

Macpass Project (Zinc-Lead-Silver) : Fireweed owns 100% of the district-scale 940 km 2 Macmillan Pass (Macpass) Project in Yukon, Canada, which is host to one of Earths largest undeveloped resources of zinc*, a Critical Mineral. The Tom and Jason zinc-lead-silver deposits have current Mineral Resources 1 (11.21 Mt Indicated Resource at 6.59% zinc, 2.48% lead, and 21.33 g/t silver; and 39.47 Mt Inferred Resource at 5.84% zinc, 3.14% lead, and 38.15 g/t silver) and a Preliminary Economic Assessment 2 (PEA). In addition, Boundary Zone, Tom North and End Zone have significant zinc-lead-silver mineralization drilled but not yet classified as mineral resources. The Project also includes large blocks of adjacent claims with known showings and significant upside exploration potential.

Fireweed owns 100% of the district-scale 940 km Macmillan Pass (Macpass) Project in Yukon, Canada, which is host to one of Earths largest undeveloped resources of zinc*, a Critical Mineral. The Tom and Jason zinc-lead-silver deposits have current Mineral Resources (11.21 Mt Indicated Resource at 6.59% zinc, 2.48% lead, and 21.33 g/t silver; and 39.47 Mt Inferred Resource at 5.84% zinc, 3.14% lead, and 38.15 g/t silver) and a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA). In addition, Boundary Zone, Tom North and End Zone have significant zinc-lead-silver mineralization drilled but not yet classified as mineral resources. The Project also includes large blocks of adjacent claims with known showings and significant upside exploration potential. Mactung Project (Tungsten) : The Company owns 100% interest in the 37.6 km 2 Mactung Project located adjacent to the Macpass Project. Recently announced mineral resources for Mactung (41.5 Mt Indicated Resource at 0.73% WO 3 and 12.2 Mt Inferred Resource at 0.59% WO 3 ) 3 make it the worlds largest high-grade resource of the Critical Mineral tungsten*. Located in Canada, it is one of the rare large tungsten resources outside of China*.

The Company owns 100% interest in the 37.6 km Mactung Project located adjacent to the Macpass Project. Recently announced mineral resources for Mactung (41.5 Mt Indicated Resource at 0.73% WO and 12.2 Mt Inferred Resource at 0.59% WO ) make it the worlds largest high-grade resource of the Critical Mineral tungsten*. Located in Canada, it is one of the rare large tungsten resources outside of China*. Gayna Project (Zinc-Lead-Gallium-Germanium): Fireweed owns 100% of the 128.75 km2 Gayna Project located 180 km north of the Macpass Project. It is host to extensive mineralization including Critical Minerals zinc, gallium and germanium as well as lead and silver, outlined by 28,000 m of historical drilling. A recent reevaluation of the geology indicates the potential for high-grade Kipushi-style massive sulphide mineralization.



Qualified Person Statement

Technical information in this news release has been approved by Fireweeds VP Geology, Dr. Jack Milton, P.Geo. (BC), a Qualified Person as defined under Canadian National Instrument 43-101.

In Canada, Fireweed (TSXV: FWZ) trades on the TSX Venture Exchange. In the USA, Fireweed (OTCQB: FWEDF) trades on the OTCQB Venture Market (www.otcmarkets.com) and is DTC eligible for enhanced electronic clearing and settlement. In Europe, Fireweed (FSE: M0G) trades on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

Additional information about Fireweed and its projects can be found on the Companys website at FireweedMetals.com and at www.sedarplus.com

ON BEHALF OF FIREWEED METALS CORP.

Brandon Macdonald

CEO & Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Data Verification

The diamond drill core logging and sampling program was carried out under a rigorous quality assurance / quality control program using industry best practices. Drill intersections in this release are NQ2 size core (50.5 mm/ 1.99-inch diameter) with recoveries typically above 85% unless otherwise noted in the results tables. After drilling, core was cleaned, logged for geology, structure, and geotechnical characteristics, then marked for sampling and photographed on site. Certain cores were selected for core scanning. The cores for analyses were marked for sampling based on geological intervals with individual samples 2 m or less in length, with 1 m samples within mineralized zones. Drill core was cut lengthwise in half with a core saw; half-core was sent for assays reported in this news release, and the other half is stored on site for reference. Bulk density was determined on site for the entire length of each assay sample by measurement of mass in air and mass in water. Sample duplicate bulk density determinations and in-house bulk density standard determinations were each made at a rate of 5%. Since 2017, four in-house bulk density standards (mineralized drill core from the Tom deposit that span a range of densities) have been used and show an acceptable long-term precision. Certified standard masses are used to calibrate the scale balance used for bulk density determinations.

A total of 5% assay standards or blanks and 5% core duplicates are included in the sample stream as a quality control measure and are reviewed after analyses are received. Standards and blanks in 2023 drill results to date have been approved as acceptable. Duplicate data add to the long-term estimates of precision for assay data on the project and precision for drill results reported is deemed to be within acceptable levels. Samples were sent to the Bureau Veritas (BV) preparation laboratory in Whitehorse, Yukon, where the samples were crushed and a 500 g split was sent to the BV laboratory in Vancouver, B.C to be pulverized to 85% passing 200 mesh size pulps. Clean crush material was passed through the crusher and clean silica was pulverized between each sample. The pulps were analyzed by 1:1:1 Aqua Regia digestion followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-ES/ICP-MS) multi-element analyses (BV Code AQ270). All samples were also analyzed for multiple elements by lithium borate fusion and X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) finish (BV Code LF725). Over-limit lead (>25.0%) and zinc (>24.0%) were analyzed by lithium borate fusion with XRF finish (BV Code LF726). For BV samples, silver is reported in this news release by method AQ270, and zinc and lead are reported by LF725 or LF726. Bureau Veritas (Vancouver) is an independent, international ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratory.

Assay values may appear rounded to one decimal place but are given in full in Table 1, Table 2, and Cross Sections where zinc and lead grades are reported to two decimal places.

Results in this news release are length and bulk-density weighted averages as would be used in a Mineral Resource estimate. Length and bulk-density weighted averages have been reported as these most accurately represent the average metal-content of the intersections.

True widths for primary intervals are estimated by measuring perpendicular to strike within the short axis of a stratiform wireframe that has been constructed in 3D around the mineralized intercepts at Boundary Zone based on assay results, geological logging, stratigraphic correlation, and bedding measurements from oriented core. The massive sulphide mineralization and laminated mineralization at Boundary Zone are mostly stratiform (oriented parallel to bedding), therefore the true width, or thickness, of the zone is estimated perpendicular to both the strike and dip direction of bedding. Vein and breccia mineralization at Boundary Zone are interpreted to be stockworks with variable shapes and true widths cannot be accurately estimated, therefore only intersected widths are reported, and true widths are marked as N/A in the assay tables. True widths are rounded to the nearest metre for widths over 10 m and to the nearest 0.1 m for widths less than 10 m, as this better reflects the precision of the estimates. True widths should be regarded as approximate as these are derived from an estimation that uses a preliminary interpretation of the geological model. True widths for nested intervals (marked as Including in results tables) are estimated using a ratio of included to primary intersected widths to attribute appropriate portions of the true width of the primary interval to the nested intervals.

Cautionary Statements

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and information (forward-looking statements). All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included herein, including, without limitation, statements relating to interpretation of drill results and projections of mineralization, future work plans, the use of funds, and the potential of the Companys projects, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects, "anticipates, "believes, "intends, "estimates, "potential, "possible, and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will, "may, "could, or "should occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to Company management and reflect the beliefs, opinions, and projections on the date the statements are made. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties and accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include but are not limited to, exploration and development risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, expenditure and financing requirements, general economic conditions, changes in financial markets, the ability to properly and efficiently staff the Companys operations, the sufficiency of working capital and funding for continued operations, title matters, First Nations relations, operating hazards, political and economic factors, competitive factors, metal prices, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulations and oversight, permitting, seasonality and weather, technological change, industry practices, uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and laboratory tests, and one-time events. The Company assumes no obligation to update forwardlooking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law.

Footnotes and References

* References to relative size and grade of the Mactung resources and Macpass resources in comparison to other tungsten and zinc deposits elsewhere in the world, respectively, are based on review of the Standard & Poors Global Market Intelligence Capital IQ database.

1: For details, see https://www.sedarplus.ca/ Fireweed Technical Report titled NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Macmillan Pass Zinc-Lead-Silver Project, Watson Lake and Mayo Mining Districts Yukon Territory, Canada filed on https://www.sedarplus.ca/ on February 23, 2018, and Fireweed News Release dated January 10, 2018. .

2: For details, see https://www.sedarplus.ca/ Fireweed Technical Report titled NI 43-101 Technical Report Macmillan Pass Project Yukon Territory Canada filed on https://www.sedarplus.ca/ on July 9, 2018, and Fireweed News Release dated May 23, 2018. This Technical Report includes a Preliminary Economic Analysis disclosing an economic analysis of mineral resources that is preliminary in nature and does not include any mineral reserves. It is equally emphasized that the mineral resources disclosed within this Technical Report are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

3: For details, see Fireweed news release dated June 13, 2023 Fireweed Metals Announces Mineral Resources for the Mactung Project: the Largest High-Grade Tungsten Deposit in the World and the technical report entitled NI 43-101 Technical Report, Mactung Project, Yukon Territory, Canada, with effective date July 28, 2023 filed on https://www.sedarplus.ca/









Map 1: Macpass Project and Mactung Project locations





Map 2: Location of 2023 Boundary Zone drillholes, cross sections and long section MM. See below for sections.





Map 3: Mineralized intervals in 2023 drilling and pre-2023 drilling defining a stratiform laminated to massive sulphide zone that is connected at depth (purple polygon) and a broader envelope of vein, breccia, and other stratiform zinc mineralization, showing significant areal extent (within green dashed line).





Long Section MM  Estimated true thickness interpretation and selected intersections with zinc grades shown within the laminated to massive sulphide stratiform zone of pyrite-sphalerite-galena mineralization at Boundary Zone. Halo vein and breccia mineralization is not included in this long section.





Cross Section CC  Including analytical results for hole NB23-033.





Cross Section KK  Including analytical results for hole NB23-035 and NB23-037





Cross Section NN  Including analytical results for hole NB23-036.





Cross Section RR  Including analytical results from Holes NB23-038





Cross Section SS  Including analytical results from Hole NB23-034

Photo 1: High resolution core scanning image of stratiform and massive to semi-massive sulphide mineralization in NB23-036 (239.6 m to 249.2 m)

Photo 2: High resolution core scanning image stratiform and massive to semi-massive sulphide mineralization in NB23-037 (412.1 m to 422.1 m)

Photo 3: High resolution core scanning image of sphalerite-pyrite-siderite vein mineralization in NB23-037 (235.1 m to 244.9 m)





Table 2: NB23-033, NB23-034, NB23-035, NB23-036, NB23-037, NB23-038 drill results

Drillhole Interval From (m) To (m) Interval Width (m) Est. True Width (m) Zinc (%) Lead (%) Silver (g/t) Bulk Density (t/m3) NB23-033 Entire Hole 0 681 681 N/A 0.37 0.06 2.7 2.87 NB23-033 Primary 77.24 82 4.76 N/A 12.10 0.61 27.2 3.10 NB23-033 Including 77.24 81.16 3.92 N/A 14.25 0.49 29.3 3.19 NB23-033 >Including 77.24 81.16 3.92 N/A 14.25 0.49 29.3 3.19 NB23-033 Primary 277.36 286.12 8.76 N/A 3.05 0.01 5.9 2.76 NB23-033 Primary 635.50 642.08 6.58 N/A 5.55 0.02 5.8 3.22 NB23-034 Entire Hole 0 580.00 580.00 N/A 1.82 0.16 9.4 3.01 NB23-034 Primary 426.78 479.78 53.00 21 12.07 1.05 53.6 4.05 NB23-034 Including 432.41 478.78 46.37 18 13.28 1.12 57.3 4.12 NB23-034 >Including 435.41 475.38 39.97 16 14.76 1.10 59.5 4.11 NB23-034 >>Including 436.87 472.38 35.51 14 15.61 0.92 57.0 4.07 NB23-034 Primary 550.29 576.25 25.96 N/A 3.97 0.05 8.9 3.53 NB23-034 Including 550.29 554.55 4.26 N/A 10.00 0.09 20.0 4.19 NB23-035 Entire Hole 0 552.28 552.28 N/A 0.68 0.07 4.3 2.87 NB23-035 Primary 76.12 81.29 5.17 N/A 17.81 0.07 19.1 3.19 NB23-035 Primary 276.00 282.36 6.36 N/A 5.94 0.15 9.8 2.93 NB23-035 Primary 342.67 349.12 6.45 N/A 3.00 0.01 4.2 2.79 NB23-035 Primary 396.96 417.18 20.22 Unknown 6.51 1.15 51.5 3.54 NB23-036 Entire Hole 0 397.20 397.20 N/A 4.40 0.47 22.9 3.12 NB23-036 Primary 95.50 171.32 75.82 N/A 4.21 0.25 9.9 2.87 NB23-036 Including 108.87 121.5 12.63 N/A 6.97 0.32 16.6 3.10 NB23-036 >Including 108.87 112.56 3.69 N/A 14.41 0.08 17.4 3.23 NB23-036 Including 156.00 171.32 15.32 N/A 7.31 0.90 19.1 2.87 NB23-036 Primary 210.33 255.55 45.22 44 18.98 2.24 114.9 4.13 NB23-036 Including 211.33 255.55 44.22 43 19.35 2.28 115.5 4.12 NB23-036 >Including 216.33 255.55 39.22 38 20.84 2.48 115.4 4.05 NB23-036 >>Including 235.64 243.74 8.10 7.9 28.90 4.75 142.2 3.95 NB23-036 Primary 304.06 381.99 77.93 N/A 2.58 0.31 9.8 3.25 NB23-036 Including 328.18 334.21 6.03 N/A 5.37 0.08 7.1 3.25 NB23-036 Including 365.85 381.99 16.14 N/A 3.52 0.81 15.3 3.34 NB23-037 Entire Hole 0 544 544 N/A 3.46 0.49 17.2 3.09 NB23-037 Primary 70.05 73.00 2.95 N/A 10.20 0.09 14.8 3.14 NB23-037 Primary 235.73 247.30 11.57 N/A 8.05 0.03 14.6 2.89 NB23-037 Including 235.73 242.30 6.57 N/A 11.38 0.05 21.3 2.94 NB23-037 >Including* 237.61 242.30 4.69 N/A 13.93 0.06 24.8 2.98 NB23-037 Primary 352.74 471.10 118.36 47 11.58 1.75 54.9 3.81 NB23-037 Including 353.71 463.47 109.76 44 12.05 1.76 55.4 3.87 NB23-037 >Including 353.71 360.34 6.63 2.6 15.89 3.39 158.7 4.40 NB23-037 >Including 405.68 433.31 27.63 11 19.06 0.74 58.2 3.78 NB23-038 Entire Hole 0 426.5 426.5 N/A 0.52 0.07 5.9 2.97 NB23-038 Primary 299.38 312.29 12.91 9.0 5.00 0.97 44.4 4.06 NB23-038 Including 299.38 304.20 4.82 3.4 10.87 2.33 78.9 4.12 NB23-038 >Including 299.38 301.32 1.94 1.4 17.89 5.12 156.4 4.37 NB23-038 Primary 367.00 390.16 23.16 N/A 2.04 0.09 7.8 3.74

* Denotes intervals with recovery of less than 85%; N/A: Not Applicable due to the variable shapes of breccia and vein mineralization.

 Entire hole intervals contain large continuous sections of very low grade or not mineralized material (below 2% zinc)intersections of continuous higher-grade material (>2% zinc) are listed as Primary and Included intervals and represent mineralized material.

 See Data Verification for a description of true width calculations



Table 3: 2023 Drilling Summary

Drillhole Length (m) Zone Significant Intersection Type NB23-001 460 Boundary Results disclosed Jul 26 2023 Step Out NB23-002 351 Boundary Results disclosed Jul 26 2023 Step Out NB23-003 418 Boundary Results disclosed Jul 26 2023 Step Out NB23-004 432 Boundary Results disclosed Aug 22 2023 Step Out NB23-005 234 Boundary Results disclosed Aug 22 2023 Step Out NB23-006 373 Boundary Results disclosed Aug 22 2023 Step Out NB23-007 461 Boundary Results disclosed Aug 22 2023 Step Out NB23-008 385 Boundary Results disclosed Aug 22 2023 Step Out NB23-009 67 Boundary Hole abandoned and redrilled as NB23-011 Step Out NB23-010 96 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-011 289 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-012 452 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-013 551 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-014 223 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-015 339 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-016 460 Boundary Results disclosed Oct 24 2023 Step Out NB23-017 96 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-018 195 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-019 560 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-020 414 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-021 442 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Infill NB23-022 386 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-022D1 448 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-023 181 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-024 402 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Infill NB23-025 580 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-026 111 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-027 396 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Infill NB23-028 477 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-029 640 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-029D1 689 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-030 526 Boundary Results disclosed Nov 30 2023 Step Out NB23-031 574 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-032 495 Boundary Results disclosed Jan 9 2024 Step Out NB23-033 681 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out NB23-034 580 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out NB23-035 552 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out NB23-036 397 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out NB23-037 544 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out NB23-038 427 Boundary Results disclosed in this release Step Out TS23-001 143 Tom North Minor Mineralization Encountered Step Out TS23-002 182 Tom North Minor Mineralization Encountered Step Out TS23-003 299 Tom West Wide Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-004 369 Tom West Moderate Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-005 407 Tom West Moderate Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-006 137 Tom West Moderate Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-007 215 Tom West Moderate Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-008 428 Tom West Moderate Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-009 749 Tom South Wide Zone Encountered Step Out TS23-009D1 747 Tom South Wide Zone Encountered Redrill TS23-009D2 821 Tom South Wide Zone Encountered Step Out JS23-001 631 Jason South Narrow Zone Encountered Step Out JS23-001D1 665 Jason South Wide Zone Encountered Step Out BX23-001 219 Boundary South No significant mineralization Exploration BX23-002 144 Boundary South No significant mineralization Exploration KB23-001 368 Kobuk No significant mineralization Exploration KB23-002 284 Kobuk No significant mineralization Exploration





Table 4: Drill Hole Collar Information

Drillhole Zone Length (m) Easting Northing Elevation (m.s.l) Azimuth () Dip () NB23-001 Boundary 460 422297 7010471 1185.86 211.99 -76.42 NB23-002 Boundary 351 422235 7010525 1194.57 214.06 -70.22 NB23-003 Boundary 418 422235 7010525 1194.57 213.40 -78.00 NB23-004 Boundary 432 422171 7010556 1203.00 213.91 -78.08 NB23-005 Boundary 234 422058 7010589 1207.95 199.63 -49.74 NB23-006 Boundary 373 422171 7010556 1203.00 215.44 -70.02 NB23-007 Boundary 461 422058 7010589 1207.95 206.37 -86.43 NB23-008 Boundary 385 422171 7010556 1203.00 215.83 -60.07 NB23-009 Boundary 67 422058 7010589 1208.67 198.54 -75.41 NB23-010 Boundary 96 422241 7010385 1150.41 212.28 -45.00 NB23-011 Boundary 289 422058 7010589 1208.67 201.59 -75.40 NB23-012 Boundary 452 422289 7010534 1200.90 211.75 -69.90 NB23-013 Boundary 551 422072 7010666 1233.59 214.94 -77.68 NB23-014 Boundary 223 422241 7010384 1150.86 213.68 -70.83 NB23-015 Boundary 339 422241 7010385 1150.41 213.36 -84.00 NB23-016 Boundary 461 422274 7010600 1216. 70 209.88 -72.96 NB23-017 Boundary 96 422279 7010359 1142.67 191.27 -46.90 NB23-018 Boundary 195 422279 7010359 1142.67 190.21 -65.21 NB23-019 Boundary 561 422289 7010534 1200.90 209.95 -81.31 NB23-020 Boundary 414 422465 7010510 1191.44 204.85 -63.35 NB23-021 Boundary 442 422391 7010500 1190.07 201.97 -77.01 NB23-022 Boundary 386 421948 7010672 1232.44 178.85 -74.18 NB23-022D1 Boundary 448 421948 7010672 1232.44 177.78 -74.00 NB23-023 Boundary 181 422449 7010351 1145.42 211.82 -49.18 NB23-024 Boundary 405 422348 7010550 1203.82 199.65 -50.18 NB23-025 Boundary 582 422343 7010620 1219.03 196.94 -74.05 NB23-026 Boundary 111 422449 7010351 1145.42 210.02 -65.44 NB23-027 Boundary 451 422348 7010550 1203.82 197.18 -72.46 NB23-028 Boundary 467 422222 7010587 1209.75 211.38 -65.44 NB23-029 Boundary 630 422124 7010731 1250.31 196.21 -75.67 NB23-029D1 Boundary 690 422124 7010731 1250.31 196.21 -75.67 NB23-030 Boundary 526 422535 7010614 1214.65 211.44 -62.01 NB23-031 Boundary 574 422329 7010671 1235.88 207.69 -69.87 NB23-032 Boundary 493 422165 7010640 1224.09 210.08 -62.01 NB23-033 Boundary 681 422228 7010663 1233.01 211.31 -73.88 NB23-034 Boundary 580 422138 7010674 1237.24 199.07 -72.40 NB23-035 Boundary 552 422228 7010663 1232.97 199.00 -72.02 NB23-036 Boundary 398 422289 7010534 1200.89 212.26 -59.46 NB23-037 Boundary 544 422228 7010663 1232.94 204.73 -66.10 NB23-038 Boundary 427 422001 7010675 1233.60 179.75 -68.10 TS23-001 Tom North 143 441761 7004226 1492.16 075.08 -49.66 TS23-002 Tom North 182 441761 7004226 1492.16 074.97 -80.38 TS23-003 Tom West 299 441676 7004024 1445.00 074.17 -68.51 TS23-004 Tom West 369 441694 7003884 1463.34 067.38 -71.48 TS23-005 Tom West 407 441761 7003770 1510.00 063.25 -75.35 TS23-006 Tom West 137 441779 7004076 1485.36 065.15 -50.08 TS23-007 Tom West 215 441779 7004076 1485.36 065.23 -78.04 TS23-008 Tom West 428 441816 7003717 1538.00 089.53 -88.95 TS23-009 Tom South 749 442363 7003106 1747.29 351.97 -82.00 TS23-009D1 Tom South 748 442363 7003106 1747.29 351.97 -82.00 TS23-009D2 Tom South 821 442363 7003106 1747.29 351.97 -82.00 JS23-001 Jason South 631 436722 7002304 1185.00 228.15 -83.90 JS23-001D1 Jason South 665 436722 7002304 1185.00 228.15 -83.90 BX23-001 Boundary Expl. 219 421752 7010127 1114.70 035.16 -50.19 BX23-002 Boundary Expl. 144 421637 7010243 1137.50 014.78 -49.83 KB23-001 Kobuk 368 418651 7012138 1311.00 006.19 -51.12 KB23-002 Kobuk 284 418754 7011620 1225.00 006.00 -65.24

Coordinates listed in NAD83 UTM Zone 9N.





Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

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Toronto, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Restaurants Canada strongly urges the British Columbia government to intervene and protect restaurants and consumers from the BC Chicken Marketing Boards proposed increase cost of chicken. If approved, this increase will raise chicken prices by an average of 10% for consumers. The cost of chicken in British Columbia is already, on average, the highest in Canada.

Competitively priced BC chicken is integral to the foodservice industrys success. As the most consumed meat protein in the province, as well as being a healthy and versatile menu item, a dramatic increase in its cost will place undue burden on restaurants, both large and small. This proposed increase has the potential to harm not only the vibrant dining experience communities across the province cherish but consumers as well.

At a time when more than half (53%) of restaurants are operating at a loss or barely breaking even (compared to just 12% pre-pandemic), any increase in the cost of ingredients will put thousands of already struggling local businesses in jeopardy.

Affordability is a major concern for British Columbians. A significant chicken price increase will only add to the affordability crisis for consumers who have seen their costs rise and disposable income decrease since the pandemic. Decembers Canada Food Price Report concluded that food prices in Canada increased by 5-7% in 2023, and predict food prices would increase a further 2.5-4.5% in 2024.

Restaurants Canada has made several attempts to present our concerns prior to a price increase decision being made. This included a letter writing campaign to the BC Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB), supported by the Canadian Federation of Grocers and Canadian Poultry & Egg Processors. We have also made our concerns known to the Minister of Agriculture and Premiers office. Our concerns are not only being dismissed, but they are also not even being heard or considered. Restaurants, hotels, and institutions account for 40% of all chicken consumed by Canadians. Chicken is also one of the most popular items, included on 80% of restaurant menus in Canada, according to Technomic Menu Canada.

The entire process is flawed. Not allowing consumers such as the foodservice industry and the public to have a say when food prices are at all-time high is unconscionable, said Mark von Schellwitz, Vice President, Western Canada, Restaurants Canada. We have been shut out; therefore, we are calling on the BC government to protect businesses and the public from the proposed dramatic increase in chicken prices. Government saying it is an independent board with no consumer voice is not good enough for the citizens of our province.

If this proposed increase goes ahead, restaurants and the public will be hit with another significant cost increase they cannot afford.

About Restaurants Canada

Restaurants Canada is a national, not-for-profit association advancing Canadas diverse and dynamic foodservice industry. Canadas foodservice sector is a $110 Billion industry that directly employs 1.2 million people and serves 22 million customers across the country every day.
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stradley Ronon has elected veteran litigator and longtime firm lawyer Michael D. OMara as managing partner, effective January 11. Mike, who also serves on the firms board of directors and management committee, succeeds firm Co-Chair Jeffrey A. Lutsky, who held the managing partner position for 18 years, as part of the firms strategic succession plan that began last January.



With more than 25 years as a trial lawyer focusing on contentious and complex disputes, Mike previously served as chair of the firms 70-lawyer litigation department. In his new role as managing partner, Mike will implement the strategic direction and vision of the firm  including supporting Stradley Ronons more than 200 lawyers across eight offices  and will oversee the firms day-to-day operations, including administrative and legal departments and practice development.



As a lifelong Stradley Ronon lawyer, Mikes passion for our firm community, impressive results-oriented litigation record and fresh perspective will steer the firms trajectory as a powerhouse full-service firm into the next generation, Jeff Lutsky said. Mike will continue to strengthen the firms reputation of providing high-touch service while maintaining our commitment to collaborative client partnerships.



Jeff will remain active in his role as firm co-chair and continue to serve as a member of the management committee along with Mike, firm Co-Chair Kevin R. Boyle and investment management Co-Chair Bruce G. Leto. Jeff will also maintain his focus on business and lateral acquisition growth and the exploration of new markets and industries. His tenure as managing partner for almost two decades marked one of the longest of any major U.S. law firm.



I am extremely grateful to have benefited from Jeffs instrumental leadership in shaping our firm, and Im thrilled to build on the firms strong foundation and reputation, Mike said. Stradley Ronons sophisticated client base, strong collegial spirit and forward-thinking approach have positioned the firm for success, and I look forward to working with our leadership team to lead the firm to its next chapter.



From joining Stradley Ronon as a summer associate in 1995 to entering the partnership in 2005, Mike has held numerous firm leadership positions, including serving as chair of the litigation department from 2013 to 2022 and serving on the hiring and associate compensation committees. In his practice, Mike handles a broad array of complex, high-exposure commercial litigation matters, including defending and prosecuting financial services cases, merger and acquisition disputes, intellectual property litigation, restrictive covenants, class actions, ERISA claims, trusts and estates disputes, and insurance and commercial real estate conflicts.



Widely respected throughout the legal community, Mike is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, a highly selective, invitation-only organization dedicated to elevating the standards of trial and appellate practice. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law and is on the boards of The Center for Autism and Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools (BLOCS).

About Stradley Ronon

Counseling clients since 1926, Stradley Ronon has helped private and public companies  from small businesses to Fortune 500 corporations  achieve their goals by providing pragmatic, value-driven legal counsel. With offices in eight strategic locations, our responsive team of more than 200 lawyers seamlessly addresses the full spectrum of our clients needs, ranging from sophisticated corporate transactions to complex commercial litigation.

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Tempe, AZ, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gen4 Dental Partners, a Thurston Group portfolio company, has announced another year of explosive growth in 2023, welcoming 71 new doctors and 160 hygienists into the 2-year-old Dental Service Organization (DSO). Based in Tempe, AZ, the innovative, dynamic DSO has entered into partnerships with 27 new partner doctors, including nationally recognized Dr. Dennis Wells, Dr. Frank Feuille V, and Dr. James G. Woodyard.

Gen4 Dental Partners continues to impress and outperform high growth targets, said Patrick J. Haynes III, Chairman and CEO of Thurston Group. In such a short period of time, the team has been able to put in place the building blocks of a world-class organization. The value proposition and differentiation of the platform has attracted the highest quality of partners across multiple dental specialties, which has positioned Gen4 as a market leader.

New partnerships throughout the country

In 2023, Gen4 completed over 20 acquisitions comprising over 70 dentists across 40+ offices. These new partnerships included continued expansion in Utah, Texas, Ohio, California, Kansas, Michigan and Minnesota, plus expansion into Tennessee, Nevada, Indiana and New Mexico.

All told, by years end, Gen4 had gathered 221 dentists, including 100 Partner Doctors and 357 hygienists in more than 100 locations in 14 states.

Acquisitions in 2023 include:

Implant and Laser Peridontal Surgery Center , a surgical practice in El Paso, TX, led by Dr. Frank Feuille V. They specialize in treatment of gum disease, implant placements, laser therapy, and cosmetic dentistry.

, a surgical practice in El Paso, TX, led by Dr. Frank Feuille V. They specialize in treatment of gum disease, implant placements, laser therapy, and cosmetic dentistry. Woodyard Periodontics, led by Dr. James G. Woodyard in Newburgh, IN. Dr. Woodyard is a periodontist who specializes in LANAP treatment, dental implants, and IV sedation dentistry.

led by Dr. James G. Woodyard in Newburgh, IN. Dr. Woodyard is a periodontist who specializes in LANAP treatment, dental implants, and IV sedation dentistry. Allure Dental, a dental practice in Lafayette, IN. It is led by Dr. Trevor Murray, who specializes in family, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, including implants, veneers, and the treatment of TMJ; and Dr. Christian J. Mazur, who focuses on Migraine/TMJ, Dental Cosmetics, CEREC same-day dentistry, 3D implant placement, and orthodontics as a Diamond Invisalign provider.

a dental practice in Lafayette, IN. It is led by Dr. Trevor Murray, who specializes in family, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, including implants, veneers, and the treatment of TMJ; and Dr. Christian J. Mazur, who focuses on Migraine/TMJ, Dental Cosmetics, CEREC same-day dentistry, 3D implant placement, and orthodontics as a Diamond Invisalign provider. Dakota Dental and Wellness Center, a practice led by Dr. Bennett Isabella in Apple Valley, MN, just south of the Twin Cities. Offering full-spectrum dental services, the office emphasizes a gentle approach through sedation dentistry, holistic wellness, and a warm, comfortable environment.

a practice led by Dr. Bennett Isabella in Apple Valley, MN, just south of the Twin Cities. Offering full-spectrum dental services, the office emphasizes a gentle approach through sedation dentistry, holistic wellness, and a warm, comfortable environment. Minnesota Dental Surgery and Implant Center, a practice in nearby Bloomington, MN, also led by Dr. Isabella as well as Drs. Brian Jordan, Peter Thernau, and Karl Peterson. The surgical center brings the highly specialized skills of a large dental surgery center, such as dental extractions, implants, and sedation dentistry, to a friendly neighborhood office environment.

a practice in nearby Bloomington, MN, also led by Dr. Isabella as well as Drs. Brian Jordan, Peter Thernau, and Karl Peterson. The surgical center brings the highly specialized skills of a large dental surgery center, such as dental extractions, implants, and sedation dentistry, to a friendly neighborhood office environment. Wagner Dental, owned by Dr. Kent Wagner in Las Vegas, NV, which offers advanced CEREC same-day dentistry, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry.

owned by Dr. Kent Wagner in Las Vegas, NV, which offers advanced CEREC same-day dentistry, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. Wasatch Dental Group, led by Drs. Wes Tillmann, Dane Nelson, Jordan Whatcott, and Marc Enslow and their teams at two locations in suburban Salt Lake City, UT: Nelson and Tillman Family Dentistry and Oquirrh Mountain Dental.

led by Drs. Wes Tillmann, Dane Nelson, Jordan Whatcott, and Marc Enslow and their teams at two locations in suburban Salt Lake City, UT: Nelson and Tillman Family Dentistry and Oquirrh Mountain Dental. Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry, led by award-winning Dr. Dennis Wells in Nashville, TN. An icon in the cosmetic dental space, Dr. Wells revolutionized the industry with developments in minimal/prepless veneers, including the invention and development of DURAthin and Micro-thin veneers, which are no-prep, no-drill dental veneers that preserve more of the natural teeth.

We are also delighted to announce Accent Dental, Bowtie Dental, Comfort Dental of Clinton, East Sac Dental, Hale and Hale, Hoffman Dental, James M. Lapierre, DDS, Michael Crowton, DDS, Monterey Coast Periodontics, Michael C. Toms, DDS, MS, Northern Nevada Family Dental, Northeast Texas Periodontal Specialists, Richard C. Evangelista, DDS, and Eric Tsai, DDS. Each brings a unique commitment to excellence, enhancing our collective endeavor to provide outstanding dental care.

New innovations that elevate the field of dentistry, especially patient care

But Gen4 is about more than just acquisitions  much more. The DSO continued to elevate the field of dentistry through a variety of breakthrough innovations. For example:

The Clinical Excellence Partners Mentorship program, which pairs rising doctors with mentors; Virtual Ortho program, which guides doctors into Ormco Spark and Invisalign clear aligner systems; and Tribe of Doctors , which elevates patient care, were launched in 2023. All are elements of the Individual Growth Engine, a professional development program.

program, which pairs rising doctors with mentors; program, which guides doctors into Ormco Spark and Invisalign clear aligner systems; and , which elevates patient care, were launched in 2023. All are elements of the Individual Growth Engine, a professional development program. The 2023 LeGENd Awards recognized the most outstanding dental offices in the organization: Cassity Implants, Little Smiles, Beaumont Family Dentistry, and Gentling Dental Care. Doctor of the Year awards were given to 21 clinicians in the organization.

recognized the most outstanding dental offices in the organization: Cassity Implants, Little Smiles, Beaumont Family Dentistry, and Gentling Dental Care. Doctor of the Year awards were given to 21 clinicians in the organization. Pathway to Partnership is a program through which associate dentists can become equity owners in Gen4 by growing their clinical skills and business acumen.

Founding principles in action

Gen4 Dental Partners is not just a business; it's a community of professionals committed to excellence, continuous learning, and genuine partnership in the ever-evolving field of dentistry, Dr. Ellingson said.That vision is brought to life through Gen4s 10 Partnership Pillars  guiding principles that undergird the organization.

From its founding, CEO Lamonte Jensen said, Gen4 has had a distinctively collaborative business model that combines the best ideas of all its dentist partners to form a doctor-centric, patient-obsessed organization. The best traits of individual practices are preserved  each practice keeps its own way of caring for patients. And the best traits of large businesses are added robust IT platform, HR, accounting, marketing support, and  most of all  a cadre of highly skilled, motivated, and collaborative dentists.

We believe in partners. We believe in a doctor-centric model. We believe in collaboration, he declared.

Looking forward to 2024, Dr. Ellingson said he is confident Gen4s unique collaborative doctors model will continue to attract more premier dental practices across the country. We want it to be more about the doctors and the patients, and less about the organization.

About Gen4 Dental Partners

Gen4 Dental Partners, led by CEO Lamonte Jensen and CCO Dr. Mitch Ellingson, is one of the fastest-growing and highly innovative Dental Service Organizations, providing world-class support to leading providers of dental services.

Gen4 was created to challenge the status quo in the consolidation space. The Gen4 Platform is designed to allow dentists and their teams the ability to practice dentistry their way while experiencing the benefits of financial and operational support. https://gen4dental.com/

About Thurston Group

Thurston Group is a Chicago-based private equity firm that focuses on building industry-leading companies in the healthcare and related business service sectors. Thurston has an extensive track record of partnering with physicians and building fast-growing healthcare businesses, including SGA Dental Partners, Gen4 Dental Partners, Smiles Dental, ARC Health, Options Medical Weight Loss, and U.S. Orthopedic Partners. Over its 37-year history, Thurston Group has returned over $4B of invested capital. For additional information about Thurston Group, please visit Thurston Group's website at www.thurstongroup.com.

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Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Military Communications Market by Platform (Land, Naval, Airborne, Unmanned Vehicles), Application, System, Point of Sale (New Installation, Upgrade), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Rest of the World) - Global Forecast to 2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The latest comprehensive research publication on the Military Communications Market has been added to our industry analysis, showcasing an exponential rise in demand for secure and sophisticated military communication systems. With the global market projected to surge from USD 24.2 billion in 2023 to an impressive USD 35.4 billion by 2028, a CAGR of 7.9% underscores the strategic importance of these technologies.

The landscape of modern warfare is rapidly evolving, necessitating robust communication frameworks to ensure seamless strategic operations. The land communication systems, currently leading the platform application segment, are vital for effective command and control, providing the armed forces with enhanced situational awareness and operational coordination capabilities.

The application of Military Communications in command and control operations is witnessing substantial growth, reflecting the critical need for integrated and swift decision-making processes in contemporary military scenarios. Military Satcom Systems have garnered the largest share in the system segment, highlighting the dependency of global defense strategies on reliable satellite communications.

Breaking down the market by point of sale, new installations have dominated 2023's market share, pointing toward an expansive development in military infrastructure across the globe. This trend is set to continue with the rising demand for advanced systems and the necessity for the revamping of legacy frameworks.

Among various geographical regions, India is projected to experience the highest CAGR in the Military Communications Market. Factors fueling this growth include the country's increasing defense budget, indigenous development initiatives, and international collaborations aimed at enhancing its military capabilities.

The market research delves deep into various segments, including platform application, command and control operations, sophisticated system technologies, and the point of sale for military comms. It also offers insights from an array of industry participants, denoting the strategic focus areas of Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 companies, and experts from diverse regional backgrounds.

The analysis provides stakeholders with precious market intelligence, enabling better positioning and more informed strategy development. The implications of this research span from acknowledging the vital market drivers and challenges to recognizing the potential opportunities and strategic moves by predominant industry players.

The document offers a wealth of information on

Product and Technology Developments: Cutting-edge advancements enhancing military comms capabilities.

Cutting-edge advancements enhancing military comms capabilities. Global Market Development: Analysis of flourishing markets and identification of potential regions for expansion.

Analysis of flourishing markets and identification of potential regions for expansion. Market Diversification: Exploration of untapped opportunities in new service sectors and geographies.

Exploration of untapped opportunities in new service sectors and geographies. Competitive Landscape Analysis: Comprehensive evaluation of key market players and their strategic endeavors.

With a growing need for secure and undeterred channels of communication within the military sector, this report promises to be an invaluable resource for government defense bodies, private contractors, and associated stakeholders within the defense technology sphere.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 239 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $24.2 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $35.4 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.9% Regions Covered Global

Premium Insights

Rise in Demand for Real-Time Information Sharing to Drive Market

Land Segment to Lead Market During Forecast Period

Command & Control to be Leading Segment of Market During Forecast Period

Military Satcom Segment to Account for Largest Market Share Market During Forecast Period

New Installation Segment to Dominate Market During Forecast Period

India to Record Highest CAGR During Forecast Period

Market Overview

Drivers

Increasing Complexity of Warfare Driving Advancements in Military Communications Systems

Rising Adoption of New Technologies for Military Communications

Growing Demand for Network-Centric Warfare and Focus on Interoperability

Increasing Cyber Threats Driving Development of Military Communications

Rise in Global Defense Spending

Restraints

Increasing Cost of Developing and Deploying New Technologies

Regulatory and Certification Requirements and Lack of Standardized Communication Protocols

Opportunities

Use of Unmanned Systems and Autonomous Communications

Cloud-Based Solutions

Challenges

Training and User Adoption

Operating Reliably in Harsh and Remote Environments

Use Case Analysis

Use Case 1: Military Communication Unmanned System (Mcus)

Use Case 2: Military Cloud Communications

Companies Mentioned

Anduril Industries

Aselsan A.S.

BAE Systems

Cobham Limited

Data Link Solutions

Elbit Systems

Fortem Technologies

General Dynamics Corporation

Honeywell International Inc.

Israel Aerospace Industries

Japan Radio Company

Kongsberg

L3Harris Technologies, Inc.

Leonardo S.P.A.

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd

Raytheon Technologies Corporation

Rheinmetall Ag

Rolta India Ltd

Saab Ab

Shield Ai

Thales Group

Vantage Robotics

Viasat Inc.



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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Aluminum Welding Wires Market by Type (Al-Si Alloy Welding Wire, Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Welding Wire, Pure Aluminum Welding Wire), End-use (Aerospace & Defense, Automotive & Transportation, Marine) - Forecast 2024-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global industry landscape for Aluminum Welding Wires is set to expand considerably by 2030, as revealed in the latest comprehensive market research report. The forecast, spanning from 2024 to 2030, indicates an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.93%, with the market size growing from USD 573.09 million to USD 758.44 million.

An in-depth analysis utilizing the FPNV Positioning Matrix provides vital insights into the business strategies and product satisfaction of vendors in the Aluminum Welding Wires sector. This strategic planning tool categorizes vendors based on their quadrant positionsForefront (F), Pathfinder (P), Niche (N), or Vital (V)offering a granular view that guides potential stakeholder decisions.

The Market Share Analysis segment of the report delivers a meticulously crafted examination of vendor performance, highlighting the intricacies of market share competition, including cumulative strategies and industry consolidation dynamics.

Included in the comprehensive report is a section dedicated to Key Company Profiles, showcasing the recent significant developments by leading companies in the Aluminum Welding Wires Market. These profiles inform readers about the innovations shaping market progression and the competitive maneuvers influencing the industry's landscape.

Robust Market Segmentation and Regional Outreach

By Type Al-Si Alloy Welding Wire Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Welding Wire Pure Aluminum Welding Wire

End-Use Sectors Aerospace & Defense Automotive & Transportation Marine

Regional Expansion Americas  Extensive segmentation by countries Asia-Pacific  Detailed analysis of key growth regions Europe, Middle East & Africa  In-depth market exploration



The report provides crucial insights into market penetration, guiding companies with detailed information on the offerings of top industry players. Businesses looking to expand can benefit from this report's deep dive into market development, identifying lucrative emerging sectors and trends. Supporting market diversification, it lists out new product initiatives and potential regions for expansion, further providing a competitive assessment to analyze market shares, strategies, and products of key players.

Highlighting innovation, the publication offers astute forecasts on the evolving technological trends and research and development activities that are poised to revolutionize the Aluminum Welding Wires Market. Addressing pivotal questions, it lays clear guidance on market size and potential investment opportunities across different segments.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 195 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $573.09 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $758.44 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.9% Regions Covered Global

Companies Profiled

Ador Welding Limited

Anand ARC Ltd.

ATLANTIC CHINA WELDING CONSUMABLES INC.

Bullion Pipe

Capilla Welding Materials GmbH

ChangZhou Changjiang Welding materials Co. Ltd.

Changzhou Huatong Welding Industry Co.,Ltd.

Changzhou Hucheng Imp.and Exp. Co., Ltd.

Chanzhou Aozhong Special Welding Wire Co., Ltd.

Drahtwerk Elisental

ESAB Corporation

Fuseteck Corporation

Gedik Welding

Illinois Tool Works Inc.

Kiswel Ltd.

Kobe Steel, Ltd.

Kunshan Gintune Welding Co., Ltd.

Novametal SA

P. K. Engineers

Safra spa

Sahara Enterprises

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

The Lincoln Electric Company

Welding Alloys Group

ZULFI WELDING ELECTRODES FACTORY CO. LTD





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ATHENS, Greece, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Okeanis Eco Tankers Corp. (the Company or OET or Okeanis) (NYSE:ECO / OSE:OET), announced the following commercial update:



For Q4 2023, as of the date of this release, the Company anticipates:

Estimated fleetwide Daily Time Charter Equivalent Rate (Daily TCE Rate) of approximately $45,300 per operating day.

Estimated VLCC Daily TCE Rate of $45,200 per operating day, all vessels trading spot.

Estimated Suezmax Daily TCE Rate of $45,500 per operating day, including 147 days fixed on time-charter on two vessels; Estimated Suezmax Daily TCE Rate of $51,800 per operating day relating solely to Suezmax spot days.



Thus far in the first quarter of 2024, as of the date of this release, the Company estimates:

Approximately 61% of the available VLCC spot days have been booked at an average Daily TCE Rate of $76,100 per operating day.

Approximately 41% of the available Suezmax spot days have been booked at an average Daily TCE Rate of $59,300 per operating day.

Daily TCE Rate reconciliation

The Daily TCE Rate is a measure of the average daily revenue performance of a vessel. The Company reports its financial results in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The Daily TCE Rate is not a measure of revenue under U.S. GAAP (i.e., it is a non-GAAP measure) or IFRS and should not be considered as an alternative to, or superior to, any measure of revenue and financial performance presented in accordance with IFRS. We calculate Daily TCE Rate by dividing revenues (time charter and/or voyage charter revenues), less commission and voyage expenses, by the number of operating days during that period. Our calculation of the Daily TCE Rates may not be comparable to that reported by other companies. The Company has not provided a reconciliation of forward-looking Daily TCE Rate because the most directly comparable IFRS measure on a forward-looking basis is not available to the Company without unreasonable effort.

Consistent with industry practice, we use the Daily TCE Rates because it provides a means of comparison between different types of vessel employment and, therefore, assists in evaluating their financial performance and in our decision-making process regarding the deployment and use of our vessels and in evaluating our financial performance. The Daily TCE rate is a non-GAAP and non-IFRS measure. We believe the Daily TCE Rate provides additional meaningful information in conjunction with vessel operating expenses, the most directly comparable GAAP and IFRS measure, because it assists our management in making decisions regarding the deployment and use of our vessels and in evaluating their financial performance. The Daily TCE Rate is a measure used to compare period-to-period changes in a companys performance and management believes that the Daily TCE Rate provides meaningful information to our investors.

The following table sets forth our computation of Daily TCE Rate, including a reconciliation of revenues to the Daily TCE Rate for Q4 2023:

(in USD million, except per day data):

Revenue $ 91.67 Voyage expenses $ 32.23 Commissions $ 1.03 Time charter equivalent revenue $ 58.41 Calendar days 1,288 Off-hire days - Operating days 1,288 Daily TCE Rate $ per day 45,300

The Company has not finalized its financial statement closing process for the year ended December 31, 2023. During the course of that process, the Company may identify items that would require it to make adjustments, which may be material to the information provided above. As a result, the information above constitutes forward-looking statements and is subject to risks and uncertainties, including possible adjustments to the preliminary results disclosed above.

Contacts

Company

Iraklis Sbarounis, CFO

Tel: +30 210 480 4200

ir@okeanisecotankers.com

Investor Relations / Media Contact

Nicolas Bornozis, President

Capital Link, Inc.

230 Park Avenue, Suite 1540, New York, N.Y. 10169

Tel: +1 (212) 661-7566

okeanisecotankers@capitallink.com

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

About OET

OET is a leading international tanker company providing seaborne transportation of crude oil and refined products. The Company was incorporated on April 30, 2018 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and is listed on Oslo Brs under the symbol OET and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ECO. The sailing fleet consists of six modern scrubber-fitted Suezmax tankers and eight modern scrubber-fitted VLCC tankers.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements, including as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements provide the Companys current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements include statements about the Companys expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts or that are not present facts or conditions. Words or phrases such as anticipate, believe, continue, estimate, expect, hope, intend, may, ongoing, plan, potential, predict, project, should, will or similar words or phrases, or the negatives of those words or phrases, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected or implied by the forward-looking statements. The Companys actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements for many reasons, including as described in the Companys filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this communication. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the Company's operating or financial results; the Company's liquidity, including its ability to service its indebtedness; competitive factors in the market in which the Company operates; shipping industry trends, including charter rates, vessel values and factors affecting vessel supply and demand; future, pending or recent acquisitions and dispositions, business strategy, areas of possible expansion or contraction, and expected capital spending or operating expenses; risks associated with operations; broader market impacts arising from war (or threatened war) or international hostilities; risks associated with pandemics (including COVID-19), including effects on demand for oil and other products transported by tankers and the transportation thereof; and other factors listed from time to time in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Except to the extent required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based. You should, however, review the factors and risks the Company describes in the reports it files and furnishes from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which can be obtained free of charge on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commissions website at www.sec.gov.
Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Patient Monitoring Devices Market by Product (Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems, Cardiac Monitoring Devices, Fetal & Neonatal Monitoring Devices), End User (Ambulatory Surgery Centers, Home Care Settings, Hospitals) - Forecast 2023-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

With the healthcare industry adapting rapidly to technological advancements, a new comprehensive market research publication on the Patient Monitoring Devices Market has been released, highlighting an anticipated surge in market growth by 2030. This publication provides a detailed overview of the market dynamics, including product advancements, key companies, and strategic industry measures.

The market analysis signifies a robust expansion of the sector with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.28% from 2023, estimating the market size to escalate from USD 51.24 billion to an impressive USD 122.89 billion by 2030. Various segments including Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems, Cardiac Monitoring Devices, and Fetal & Neonatal Monitoring Devices are precisely evaluated for their market potential and trends.

Benefiting from the FPNV Positioning Matrix and Market Share Analysis, this report helps stakeholders to comprehend the competitive landscape so they can formulate informed decisions to maintain market presence and expand their share. The incredible depth of vendor analyses provides an astute understanding of the positioning in the market landscape, enabling key players to recognize opportunities and threats.

Key Contributions and Market Impact

A plethora of significant market players, including industry giants and emerging competitors, are profiled, illuminating paths of growth and innovations resonating throughout the healthcare sector.

Detailed segmentation offers insights into the extensive applications of monitoring devices across end-user settings like Home Care, Hospitals, and Ambulatory Surgery Centers, ensuring a tailored approach for investing and developing new products.

Geographical coverage extends wide, encapsulating critical markets from the Americas to the Asia-Pacific and Europe, Middle East & Africa regions, indicating potential high-growth areas and discussing region-specific dynamics.

Technological Trends, Development, and Diversification

The strategic approach toward market penetration, development, and diversification are meticulously described, offering a comprehensive look into product launches and the exploration of untapped markets. In-depth competitive assessments deliver key intelligence on strategic market shares and leaders' operational strategies.

Amid evolving technology trends, regulatory frameworks, and healthcare demands, the report acts as a beacon to inform of market readiness for tomorrow's challenges. It poses crucial questions regarding market strategy and product innovation, fostering an environment of preemptive market adaptation.

As global healthcare continues to prioritize patient monitoring and data analytics, the report's findings will be integral for those looking to stay ahead of the curve in the patient monitoring devices sector. The publication signifies a vital step towards understanding and addressing the complex needs of the modern healthcare market.

Parties interested in the comprehensive analysis of the Patient Monitoring Devices Market can find the newly added research publication on the respective official website, which provides a strategic overview for this expanding market segment.

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 199 Forecast Period 2023 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $51.24 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $122.89 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 13.2% Regions Covered Global

Companies Mentioned

100 Plus by ConnectAmerica.com, LLC

Abbott Laboratories

AliveCor, Inc.

BIOTRONIK SE & Co KG

Boston Scientific Corporation

Cardiomo Care Inc. by Delaware corporation

ChroniSense Medical, Ltd.

Compumedics Limited

Dexcom, Inc.

Dragerwerk AG & Co. KGaA

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited

GE HealthCare Technologies Inc.

Getinge AB

Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. by Baxter International Inc.

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Masimo Corporation

Medtronic PLC

Mindray Medical International Limited

Natus Medical Incorporated

Nihon Kohden Corporation

Nonin Medical, Inc.

Omron Corporation

Schiller AG

Stryker Corporation

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/z3e8e

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Dublin, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Atherectomy Devices Market Size by Segments, Share, Regulatory, Reimbursement, Procedures and Forecast to 2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report is built to visualize quantitative market trends within Cardiovascular Devices therapeutic area.



The model discusses in detail the impact of COVID-19 on Atherectomy Devices market for the year 2020 and beyond. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) has emerged as a global burden on developing and developed countries. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a global public health and socioeconomic problem affecting millions of patients each year. The increasing prevalence of both CAD and PAD worldwide can be attributed to risk factors and comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and tobacco use.



Overall, urbanization has led to increased smoking rates, lack of physical activity and unhealthy lifestyle. Moreover, as many of these comorbidities are closely tied to age, the growing elderly population will also contribute to the rising disease prevalence.



Each of the covered 39 country's color-coded and fully-sourced market models are equipped with epidemiology based indications with procedure volumes. To increase the data transparency, the interactive excel deliverable covers installed base, new sales volumes, product usage, average selling prices, market size and company share/rank analysis (wherever available). Moreover, analyst comments with qualitative insight offer context for quantitative data.



Key Inclusions of the market model are:

Currently marketed Atherectomy Devices and evolving competitive landscape -

Insightful review of the key industry trends.

Annualized total Atherectomy Devices market revenue by segment and market outlooks from 2015-2033.

Granular data on total procedures, units, average selling prices and market values by segment.

Global, Regional and Country level market specific insights -

Qualitative market specific information is available with global trends further broken down into regional trends. In addition the analysts provide unique country specific insights on the market.

SWOT analysis for Atherectomy Devices market.

Competitive dynamics insights and trends provided for Atherectomy Devices market.

Drive the understanding of the market by getting the veritable big picture including an overview of the healthcare system. In addition the Market Access segment allows you to delve deeper into market dynamics with information on reimbursement policies and the regulatory landscape.

Country specific overview of the healthcare system.

Country specific reimbursement policies.

Country specific medtech regulatory landscape.

Robust methodologies and sources enable the model to provide extensive and accurate overview of the market. Demand and supply-side primary sources are integrated within the syndicated models, including Key Opinion Leaders. In addition, real world data sources are leveraged to determine market trends; these include government procedure databases, hospital purchasing databases, and proprietary online databases.



Countries covered: United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Brazil, China, India, Russia, Japan, Australia, Canada, Mexico, South Korea, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Finland, Israel, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Taiwan, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Argentina, and Chile.



Report Scope



This Market Model gives important, expert insight you won't find in any other source. The model illustrates qualitative and quantitative trends within the specified market. This model is required reading for:

CMO executives who must have deep understanding of the Atherectomy Devices marketplace to make strategic planning and investment decisions.

Sourcing and procurement executives who must understand crucial components of the supply base in order to make decisions about supplier selection and management.

Private equity investors that need a deeper understanding of the market to identify and value potential investment targets.

The model will enable you to:

Understand the impact of COVID-19 on Atherectomy Devices market.

Develop and design your in-licensing and out-licensing strategies through a review of pipeline products and technologies, and by identifying the companies with the most robust pipeline.

Develop business strategies by understanding the trends shaping and driving Atherectomy Devices market.

Drive revenues by understanding the key trends, innovative products and technologies, market segments, and companies likely to impact the Atherectomy Devices market in the future.

Formulate effective sales and marketing strategies by understanding the competitive landscape and by analyzing the company share of market leaders.

Identify emerging players with potentially strong product portfolios and create effective counter-strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Track device sales in the global and country-specific Atherectomy Devices market from 2015-2033.

Organize your sales and marketing efforts by identifying the market categories and segments that present maximum opportunities for consolidations, investments and strategic partnerships.

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes:

Cardiovascular Systems Inc.

Boston Scientific Corp.

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Medtronic PLC

Avinger Inc.

Becton Dickinson and Co.

Angiodynamics Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/huibsu

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.




Reitan Retail, Norgesmllene, Felleskjpet Agri and Yara have entered a collaboration to produce a bread, made from Norwegian oats, with lower carbon footprint.



The four companies have signed a letter of intent aimed at reducing emissions from Norwegian food production, from fertilizer production to finished food products.





To achieve their goals, the companies will use mineral fertilizers produced using electrolysis and renewable energy, adopt better agronomic practices, and leverage precision farming tools.





Oats will be the first available product, with between 25-30 percent lower carbon footprint than regular oats produced with traditional mineral fertilizers.





The intention is to produce an oat-based bread, to be made available in REMA 1000's stores in 2025.

Oslo: The four companies represent the majority of the food value chain for grain. This process spans from the production of mineral fertilizers and cultivation in the field, to the production of flour and grain products, culminating in the delivery of finished goods sold to the consumer. Oats will be the first grains to have a carbon footprint reduction of 25 to 30 percent compared to regular oats.

With an optimistic outlook on the coming season, the companies aim for a bread that is healthy, tasty and affordable, and made from oats.

"Finally, we can bring together the majority of the food value chain to reduce the carbon footprint of food, from farm to fork" says Svein Tore Holsether, President and CEO of Yara. "The food system accounts for a third of global emissions, and it is not possible to reach the goals of the Paris Agreement without decarbonizing food production. With a growing population, we need to produce more food in a sustainable way. This collaboration marks an important step in the right direction."

Ole Robert Reitan, CEO of Reitan Retail, says REMA 1000, with close to 700 discount grocery stores in Norway, is committed to facilitating informed and responsible choices for customers. However, he underlines that the biggest results from carbon footprint reduction, can only be achieved by collaborating across the value chain.

"Our ambition is to make bread with a lower carbon footprint, that is also healthy, tasty and affordable. It is impossible to succeed with such a project on your own. We need to collaborate throughout the value chain by sharing data and knowledge, and implementing actions that are in the best interests of all. Now we will all collaborate across the value chain and use Norwegian high-quality ingredients from innovative farmers. That is very exciting," says Ole Robert Reitan.

Felleskjpet, an agricultural cooperative owned by 37,500 Norwegian farmers, distributes mineral fertilizer to farmers all over the country and serves as the market regulator for grain. They buy and sell grain from the farmers and are also an important supplier of technology and equipment to the agricultural sector.

"Norwegians expect their food to be pure and of high quality, and the food value chain that delivers them keep the same standard. At the same time, Norwegian agriculture has committed to major emission cuts as part of the Norwegian agricultural climate agreement. If the industry is to succeed with major greenhouse gas reductions, while at the same time strengthening self-sufficiency, cooperation between the different players is necessary. Our role is to represent Norwegian farmers and be open to business models and collaboration that ensures the involvement of all parties," says Svenn Ivar Fure, CEO of Felleskjpet.

In this collaborative effort of uniting the bread food chain, the ambition is to reduce the costs from decarbonization for both farmers and consumers. The milling group Norgesmllene, recognized for its brand "Mllerens", produces flour, grain, bread and bakery products in Norway, and is committed to giving consumers the opportunity to make lower carbon choices in the supermarket.

"We are excited to work together to get this bread out to the store shelves, and soon everyone who bakes at home will have the opportunity to choose grain products with a reduced carbon footprint, says Jan-Eirik Eikeland," CEO of Norgesmllene.

In addition to Norway's first food project involving fertilizer produced with electrolysis of water and renewable energy, the companies want to reduce their climate footprint on all levels. This could include optimizing agricultural methods, precision tools for more accurate farming, use of agricultural inputs, a transition to more low-emission transportation, as well as methods for measuring and recording carbon footprint.

"This project is a good example of collaboration to reach the climate goals and can form a template for how other companies in different parts of the value chain can also collaborate," says Petter Haas Brubakk, CEO of Food Drink Norway, The confederation of Norwegian Enterprise.

Strong demand for more sustainable food in Norway

In a European survey conducted by IPSOS on behalf of Yara, 65% of Norwegians said that food producers should work to reduce emissions, with 73% saying that farmers should be given incentives to implement more sustainable farming practices. Over half of Norwegians also wanted clear labelling of the carbon footprint on the food they buy.

By collaborating across the value chain, the companies will facilitate food production with a reduced carbon footprint and at the same time promote Norwegian grain production.

Key facts

Yara's fertilizer produced with electrolysis of water and renewable energy can reduce the carbon footprint of oat production by 25 to 30 percent, based on Yara's calculations.





Unlike traditional production methods that use natural gas, Yara's mineral fertilizers will replace fossil gas with electrolysis of water. The result is fertilizer with a 70-90 per cent reduction in CO2 footprint, compared to mineral fertilizers produced with fossil natural gas.





On average, 1,155,300 tonnes of grain are produced in Norway each year, of which 300,100 tonnes is wheat and the other 244,800 tonnes are oats. The Norwegian share in wheat flour has averaged 65 per cent over the past 5 years. The trend is increasing but varies widely from year to year due to weather conditions that affect whether the grain meets food quality qualification requirements.





Precision farming helps reduce the climate footprint of grain production. Applying fertilizer in alignment with the specific needs of crops, not only safeguards crop quality, but also contributes to better profitability for the farmer.

Tools to measure the carbon footprint will help raise awareness of products' carbon footprint, the climate impact of food production and give farmers and food producers opportunities to reduce their carbon footprint.

Photo caption:

Svein Tore Holsether, Ole Robert Reitan, store manager Mehmet Teknz, Svenn Ivar Fure and Jan-Eirik Eikeland meets up at the bread section in Rema 1000 in Majorstuen, Oslo.

Contact Information

Marius Wrhaug Madsen

Communications Manager, Yara International ASA

M: +47 977 23 199

E: marius.madsen@yara.com

yvind Breivik

Director of Communication, Reitan Retail

M: +47 402 26 686

E: oyvind.breivik@reitanretail.no

Veronika Skagestad

Head of Communication, Felleskjpet Agri SA

M: +47 936 03 500

E:veronika.skagestad@felleskjopet.no

Vidar Haugsdal

Director of Communication and Sustainability, Norgesmllene AS

M: +47 977 37 002

E: vidar.haugsdal@norgesmollene.no



About Yara

Yara grows knowledge to responsibly feed the world and protect the planet. Supporting our vision of a world without hunger and a planet respected, we pursue a strategy of sustainable value growth, promoting climate-friendly crop nutrition and zero-emission energy solutions. Yara's ambition is focused on Growing a Nature-Positive Food Future that creates value for our customers, shareholders and society at large and delivers a more sustainable food value chain.

To achieve our ambition, we have taken the lead in developing digital farming tools for precision farming and work closely with partners throughout the food value chain to improve the efficiency and sustainability of food production. Through our focus on clean ammonia production, we aim to enable the hydrogen economy, driving a green transition of shipping, fertilizer production and other energy intensive industries.

Founded in 1905 to solve the emerging famine in Europe, Yara has established a unique position as the industry's only global crop nutrition company. We operate an integrated business model with around 17,500 employees and operations in 60 countries, with a proven track record of strong returns. In 2022, Yara reported revenues of USD 24.1 billion. www.yara.com

About Reitan Retail

Reitan Retail is a leading retail company in the Nordic and Baltic region with operations in discount grocery, convenience and mobility across seven countries.

We are a family of 43,500 positive and proactive people and strong brands including REMA 1000, Narvesen, R-kioski, Pressbyran, Uno-X and 7-Eleven.

In Reitan Retail, we share strong values and a common purpose: To make everyday life a little bit easier and the world a little bit better.

About Felleskjpet Agri

Felleskjpet Agri is a cooperative owned by around 37,500 farmers. Felleskjpet is the most important supplier of technology and equipment to Norwegian agriculture and has around 100 stores aimed at farmers and consumers in Norway. Our business also includes property management, bread and bakery products, as well as equipment for parks, facilities and pets. We are the market regulator for grain and purchasing and sales cooperatives for our members. Our main goal is to help strengthen our members' finances in the short and long term.

About Norgesmllene

Norgesmllene is one of the country's leading food companies within grain and flour-based products. Since 1866, the company has helped create baking pleasure and spread food knowledge in Norway. Mllerens is Norway's leading brand for flour, grain, bread and bakery products, and Urkraft has been established as a brand for a series of products made from and with oats. Through sustainable, high-quality products, the ambition is to create food enjoyment, baking pleasure and contribute to a successful and tasty result every time - whether in private individuals' homes, bakeries or caterers.

Attachment
Highlights:

New drill hole DSC-112-W1 is a 125m step-out from Descendent discovery hole DSC-111;

DSC-112-W1 intersects multiple Cu-Zn-Au-Ag zones including 7.00m of 1.71% CuEq and 9.0m of 0.65% CuEq;

Grades intersected at Descendent are comparable to grades intersected at the top of the nearby Rainbow deposit;

Recent intersection confirms a previously identified large geophysical target that projects along strike to the northeast for 340m and at depth for 840m; and

Plans underway for an exploration campaign to define the size and extent of the Descendent.

VANCOUVER, Jan. 22, 2024 - Callinex Mines Inc. (the "Company" or "Callinex") (TSXV: CNX) (OTCQX: CLLXF) is pleased to provide results from the recently completed drilling to expand the new high-grade copper, zinc, gold and silver Descendent discovery at the 100% owned Pine Bay Project located in the Flin Flon Mining District of Manitoba. (See news release dated September 12, 2023) (Pine Bay Project Plan View).

Max Porterfield, President and CEO, stated, "Today's results confirm yet another exciting discovery at our Pine Bay Project with potential to quickly build significant tonnage alongside our recently established resource base. The Descendent discovery has unique characteristics that make it an opportunity worth immediately seizing through additional drilling. This year's exploration campaign will be another exciting one where we will remain focused on growing Pine Bay into a tier one asset with numerous expanding high-grade discoveries."

Step-out drill hole DSC-112-W1 intersected the Descendent 110m vertically below and 50m to the south of discovery hole DSC-111 and returned 7.00m of 1.71% copper equivalent ("CuEq") (0.13% Cu, 0.51 g/t Au, 15.80 g/t Ag and 2.87% Zn) including 3.59m of 2.30% CuEq (0.08% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 14.31 g/t Ag and 4.68% Zn) and 9m of 0.65% CuEq (0.41% Cu, 0.20 g/t Au, 3.44 g/t Ag, 0.20% Zn) including 3m of 1.20% CuEq (0.90% Cu, 0.29 g/t Au, 5.19 g/t Ag and 0.15% Zn). The Descendent remains open to the north, and vertically below DSC-112-W1 (Descendent Discovery Long Section).

The intersection in DSC-112-W1 is the deepest result to date associated with the Descendent and is located 460 meters below PBM-024-W1 the most shallow hole to intersect the Descendent. PBM-024-W1, a 37m step-out vertically above parent hole PBM-024, intersected 4.00m of 1.37% CuEq (0.53% Zn, 0.92 g/t Au, 34.60 g/t Ag, and 1.64% Cu). Parent drill hole DSC-112 intersected the southern extent of the Descendent 50m south and 25m above the DSC-112-W1 intersections.

Jim Pickell, member of Callinex's technical team and recipient of the Bill Dennis Prospector of the year award for the discovery of the 777, Konuto and Photo mines, commented, "Although Callinex's Rainbow VMS Deposit and its newly discovered Descendent VMS mineralization share many similar geological and mineralogical features, what sets the Rainbow and Descendent apart is the much larger stratigraphic 'footwall' VMS feeder alteration system (possibly up to eight to ten times larger) associated with the Descendent versus the Rainbow deposit. This same Descendent-associated 'footwall' alteration package, with its spectacular 1100 by 700 metre surface footprint, has both inspired and eluded previous explorers who also believed that this extra-large alteration system was spatially associated with a correspondingly large to giant VMS deposit. It is also important to note that the elevated silver and zinc grades in the latest Descendent drilling appear to be quite similar to the near-surface, 'distal' (to feeder) lower grade portions of the Rainbow deposit that rapidly transition into thicker, higher grade, copper-dominated massive sulphides at depth, closer to its 'proximal' alteration (feeder) pipe."

The most significant section returned from drill hole DSC-111 is 7.14m grading 1.70% CuEq (3.34% Zn, 0.29 g/t Au, 14.38 g/t Ag and 0.11% Cu) with additional intersections including a 10.57m grading 1.36% CuEq (1.47% Zn, 0.58 g/t Au, 16.51g/t Ag and 0.26% Cu). The results announced today confirm and validate a large geophysical target associated with discovery hole DSC-111 that projects along strike to the northeast for 340m and at depth for 840m that was previously identified in a borehole pulse electromagnetic survey of the hole.

The grades intersected to date at the Descendent are comparable to grades intersected at the top of Rainbow. At Rainbow, the average drill hole composite grades are 1.55% CuEq (0.56% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 1.63% Zn and 9.27 g/t Ag) within the first 200m (-100m to -300m elevation) of the deposit, which also remains open below the 900m level. Descendent is interpreted to have the same vertical plunge and steeply dipping orientation as nearby Rainbow, Pine Bay and Alchemist deposits which are located 1.4km, 0.9km and 2.9km away respectively, and all within Callinex's mineral lease. The Company's exploration thesis is that, like at Rainbow, the grades will continue to improve and transition into high grade copper at depth with further drilling at Descendent.

JJ O'Donnell, Exploration Manager for Callinex and former Senior Mine Geologist at the 777 mine, stated, "Further testing of the Descendent horizon is warranted based on the geology, alteration patterns, and assays returned by the most recent drill holes. Further testing of the Descendent horizon has a great opportunity to increase the overall value of the Pine Bay Project, and I am excited for the upcoming 2024 drill program."

This Descendent is located within the Baker Patton Felsic Complex, one of the largest and most highly altered accumulations of felsic rocks within the Flin Flon Greenstone Belt. The new discovery is directly associated with a major alteration zone that's previously been identified at surface and spans 1,100m by 700m. Since the huge alteration zone seen at surface is structurally overturned, the exploration thesis is that the massive sulphides associated with this mineralizing event would be preserved at depth, which we are now intersecting with the Descendent discovery. Typically, there is a correlation between the size of an alteration zone and the size of the VMS deposit it is associated with.

The exploration model for large VMS deposits within the Flin Flon-Snow Lake Greenstone Belt, such as the Lalor and 777 deposits, includes having several smaller deposits in close proximity to a large alteration system within a major felsic volcanic center. Historic and recent exploration has identified seven VMS deposits, along with the new Descendent discovery, located in close proximity to the huge Baker Patton alteration zone.

Peter Jones, member of Callinex's team and former CEO of Hudbay Minerals, added, "The recent Pine Bay Project NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate was very encouraging, and I am excited about further extensions to known mineralization and new discoveries both along trend and in depth, at this underexplored part of the prolific Flin Flon Greenstone Belt."

Looking forward, the Company will continue to aggressively expand the resource base with a focus on step-out drilling at Descendent. Additionally, we will continue to advance our pipeline of discoveries at the Pine Bay Project (Rainbow, Alchemist and target area Odin) through additional geophysical surveying and potential drill testing.

Table 1: Pine Bay Drill Results

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Cu % Au g/t Ag g/t Zn % Sg CuEq % DSC-112 1513.00 1521.00 8.00 0.03 0.06 1.08 0.41 2.96 0.20 DSC-112 1553.00 1555.00 2.00 0.03 0.11 1.31 0.86 3.08 0.37 DSC-112 1565.00 1570.00 5.00 0.02 0.18 8.23 0.68 2.96 0.32 DSC-112-W1 1578.59 1585.59 7.00 0.13 0.51 15.80 2.87 3.34 1.71 Including 1582.00 1585.59 3.59 0.08 0.46 14.31 4.68 3.15 2.30 DSC-112-W1 1596.00 1605.00 9.00 0.41 0.20 3.44 0.20 3.39 0.65 Including 1600.00 1603.00 3.00 0.90 0.29 5.19 0.15 3.60 1.20 PBM-024W1 1018.00 1022.0 4.00 0.08 0.57 6.70 2.21 3.39 1.37 Including 1018.00 1021.16 3.16 0.10 0.67 7.81 2.64 3.51 1.63

Notes:

1.True width estimates are unknown and will be determined with more drilling.

2. DSC-112 and DSC-112W1 collar is located at the following Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates using the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) within UTM Zone 14N: 332936m East and 6071333m North and 314.0m above sea level, and started at 310Az, -87 degree dip. PBM-024W1 is located at the following Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates using the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) within UTM Zone 14N: 332804m East and 6071457m North and 319.0m above sea level, and started at 315Az, -80 degree dip.

3. The size of the drill core is NQ.

4. All CuEq (copper equivalent) assay results in this news release use the following pricing: US$3.00 copper per pound ($6,720/tonne), US$1.15 zinc per pound, US$1,450/troy ounce gold ($46.62/gram), US$16.50/toy ounce silver ($0.53/gram), calculation CuEQ= Cu%+(Zn% x zinc price per pound / copper price per pound)+(Au g/t x Au price per gram / copper price per tonne) x100 + (Ag g/t x Ag price per gram / copper price per tonne) x 100. 100% metal recoveries used, ie. no process recoveries or smelter payables were included in the calculation.

J.J. O'Donnell, P.Geo, a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release.

QA / QC Protocols

Individual samples were labeled, placed in plastic sample bags, and sealed. Groups of samples were then placed in security sealed bags and shipped directly to SGS lab in Vancouver, BC for analysis. Samples were weighed then crushed to 75% passing 2mm and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns in order to produce a 250g pulverized split. 35 elements including copper, zinc, lead and silver assays were determined by Aqua Regia digestion with a combination of ICP-MS and ICP-AES finish, with over limits rerun using an ore grade analysis (two acid digest ICP-AES). Gold was analyzed by fire assay. Specific gravity (sg) measured for each sample using the pycnometer and water and air method. QA/QC included the insertion and continual monitoring of numerous standards, blanks, and duplicates

About Callinex Mines Inc.

Callinex Mines Inc. (TSXV: CNX) (OTCQX: CLLXF) is advancing its portfolio of base and precious metals rich deposits located in established Canadian mining jurisdictions. The focus of the portfolio is highlighted by the rapidly expanding Rainbow deposit at its rich VMS Pine Bay Project located near existing infrastructure in the Flin Flon Mining District. Callinex prepared an indicated mineral resource on the Rainbow deposit of 3.44 Mt grading 3.59% CuEq for 272.4 Mlb CuEq (238.3 Mlb Cu, 56.9 Mlb Zn, 37.6 koz Au, 692.8 koz Ag, 2.3 Mlb Pb), an inferred mineral resource on the Rainbow deposit of 1.28 Mt grading 2.95% CuEq containing 83.4 Mlb CuEq (72.1 Mlb Cu, 19.5 Mlb Zn, 11.1 koz Au, 222.2 Koz Ag, 0.8 Mlb Pb) and an inferred mineral resource at the Pine Bay deposit of 1.0 Mt grading 2.62% Cu containing 58.1 Mlb Cu (see news release dated July 10, 2023). The second asset in the portfolio is the Nash Creek Project located in the VMS rich Bathurst Mining District of New Brunswick. A 2018 PEA generates a strong economic return with a pre-tax IRR of 34.1% (25.2% post-tax) and NPV8% of $230 million ($128 million post-tax) at $1.25 Zinc (see news release dated May 14, 2018). The third asset, 100% owned Point Leamington Deposit in Newfoundland, is located in one of the richest VMS and Gold Districts in Canada. Callinex prepared a pit constrained Indicated Mineral Resource of 5.0 Mt grading 2.5 g/t AuEq for 402 koz AuEq (145.7 koz gold, 60.0 Mlb copper, 153.5 Mlb zinc, 2.0 Moz silver, 1.5 Mlb lead), a pit constrained Inferred Mineral Resource of 13.7 Mt grading 2.24 g/t AuEq for 986.5 koz AuEq (354.8 koz gold, 110.2 Mlb copper, 527.3 Mlb zinc, 6.2 Moz silver, 7.0 Mlb lead) and an out-of-pit Inferred Mineral Resource of 1.7 Mt grading 3.06 g/t AuEq for 168.5 koz AuEq (65.4 koz gold, 13.3 Mlb copper, 102.9 Mlb zinc, 1.4 Moz Ag, 2.6 Mlb lead) (see news release dated October 25, 2021).

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to future expenditures. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include, among others, the ability to complete the proposed drill program, obtaining satisfactory results from its drill program and the timing and amount of expenditures. Except as required under applicable securities laws, Callinex does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/callinex-intersects-the-descendent-in-125m-step-out-at-the-pine-bay-project-mb-302040431.html

SOURCE Callinex Mines Inc.
TSX.V: DME

U.S. OTC: DMEHF

Frankfurt: QM01

VANCOUVER, Jan. 22, 2024 - Desert Mountain Energy Corp. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (U.S. OTC: DMEHF) (Frankfurt: QM01) From the President of the Company. Desert Mountain Energy Corp. (DME) is pleased to announce the successful reassembly of its natural gas and helium processing and extraction facility. The Company has received the final operational permit from the BLM. The company has made several plant modifications to enhance safety and accommodate upcoming regulatory changes in 2024. These modifications have allowed DME to significantly increase overall gas production and begin plant operations for total natural gas throughput. Plant modifications include the ability to automatically bypass the main gas portion of the gas processing facility and continue natural gas sales. The West Pecos Field Plant has been specifically designed to meet a variety of customer purity requirements for gaseous helium, ensuring a maximum return on investment.

The purchase of the West Pecos Abo Gas Field included an existing offtake contract that requires all gas to be sold under its terms for the remaining short term of the contract. Depending upon the outcome of ongoing discussions, the Company may need to wait for the expiration of the current gas purchase agreement on 05/31/24 to begin full-time helium extraction and sales. The Company will not litigate any disagreements with the offtake partner and is prepared to wait for the contract to expire. While the Company is negotiating with the current offtake partner, processed gas sale contracts are being explored and negotiated directly with end users. As stated in a previous press release, the closest gas transportation company has modified and updated its existing line tap, which could be a very advantageous connection. There is an existing line from the outbound side of our processing facility to their line tap, which is approximately 90 feet away.

Since taking over operations on 07/01/23, DME has significantly increased gas throughput across the entire field, going from 104 MCFGPD to 1,341 MCFGPD in November 2023 and aiming for 1,500 MCFGPD in December 2023. This progress has been achieved without significant capital investment, with 15 wells revitalized at a cost of less than $150 per well using foaming techniques. The company plans to further improve production through well workovers starting in March 2024, with an average cost of $15,000 per well. DME is working towards the near-term goal of exceeding 3,000 MCFGPD from existing wells and perforations.

The Company has conducted a thorough review of open hole logs and has identified numerous productive zones in various areas of the field. In the West Pecos Slope Abo Gas Field there are 11 distinct zones within the Upper Abo Formation which have shown productivity. On average, the total thickness of the Upper Abo Formation in this field is 390 feet. Many wells have not reached the Lower Abo or Wolfcamp Formations, but those that have indicated multiple successful completions into specific zones. Of the wells that have penetrated these formations, well records indicate multiple successful completions into specific zones which were constrained at the time of original drilling by spacing density rules. The majority of those original concerns or constraints have been addressed via rule/regulation changes and have since been modified or removed and the Company looks to further enhance long-term helium production through completions in those specific zones. Future drilling plans will be addressed separately upon release of the NI51-101 reserve report and 2023 audited financials, for the year ending September 30, 2023.

ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY

Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded resource company primarily focused on the exploration, development and production of helium, hydrogen, natural gas and condensate. The Company is focused on helium extraction from different raw gas sources in an environmental and economic manner supplying elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries.

We seek safe harbor

"Robert Rohlfing"

Robert Rohlfing

Exec Chairman & CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and nor does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/desert-mountain-energy-completes-reassembly-of-west-pecos-field-plant-302040363.html

SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp.
Vancouver, January 22, 2024 - Go Metals Corp. (CSE: GOCO) ("Go Metals" and/or the "Company") is pleased to announce results from the recent critical metals drilling program from its flagship HSP Property located on the Cote-Nord of Quebec.

Scott Sheldon, CEO of Go Metals states, "The 2023 RC drill program based on the 2019 airborne EM survey targets continues to point to a significant magmatic sulphide system extending from surface and open at depth. The drill intersected three layers of low-grade mineralization at Chamber North with a combined width of 13.7m ending in disseminated sulphide bearing anorthosite. All drill holes at Chamber North to date have been highly anomalous in nickel, copper and cobalt, indicating proximity to the source of the large EM anomaly."

Mr. Sheldon continued, "Moving into 2024, our goal is to better understand the origin and source of the sulphide mineralization, to determine the conditions required for a deposit-scale system. Gravity geophysics will be used to scan deeper for high density rocks and may help distinguish the presence of sulphide-rich ore bodies from the surrounding anorthosite host. Bulk-rock and magnetite geochemistry will also help to determine the source of the sulphide bearing intrusions, and where they fit in the geology of the region."





Figure 1: Overview map of developed targets and drilling to date at HSP property.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5946/195097_72f2f839146a89c5_001full.jpg

Assay Results

Hole Target Intercept Ni % Cu % Co % Ni Eq* % HSPRC23-001 Red Mountain 1.52m (from 32m) 0.43 0.49 0.04 0.76 HSPRC23-003 Chamber North 3.05m (from 0m) 0.07 0.06 0.02 0.14 HSPRC23-004 Chamber North 7.62m (from 36.6m) 0.11 0.13 0.03 0.22



3.05m (from 22.9m) 0.11 0.09 0.03 0.20



3.05m (from 4.57m) 0.06 0.03 0.02 0.11

Table 1 - Drill results. *Ni Eq: Nickel equivalent calculated using metal prices from Jan 10, 2024 (Ni: 16.15USD/kg, Cu: 8.26USD/kg, Co: 30.02USD/kg) calculated Ni:Cu ratio - 1:1.955, Ni:Co ratio - 1:0.538. No other metals were used in the calculation of Ni Eq.





Notable Drill Results:

HSPRC23-001 intercepted the same mineralized structure intercepted in 2022 at Red Mountain and extends the strike length to at least 40m and down-dip length of 57m starting at surface. The structure remains open along strike to the northwest, southeast and down-dip. Future plans include exploring for zones where the structure widens to determine if it is part of a larger sulphide system.





Figure 2: Red Mountain target overview with all drill results to date.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5946/195097_72f2f839146a89c5_003full.jpg

HSPRC23-003 intercepted up to 0.32% Ni Eq* over 1.5m, which is the highest grade intercept discovered to date at Chamber North. These results highlight the potential for the large 500m by 700m target. Moving forward, special attention will be paid to identify the processes that increase sulphide concentration within the anorthositic magma chamber to vector higher grade mineralized zones within the target.







Figure 3: Chamber North overview with all drill results to date.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5946/195097_72f2f839146a89c5_006full.jpg

QAQC and Sampling Protocol

Samples were taken for each 5-foot RC rod. The chips were put through a splitter that collects 40% as a sample. The sample is run through the splitter again to keep a duplicate in case samples need to be re-assayed. Duplicates, standards and blanks were inserted at regular intervals within the sample sequence for validation purposes. Results for all QAQC samples were deemed acceptable, except for one isolated sample. Re-assay was not required.

XRF Comparison

A handheld X-ray fluorescence analyzer ("XRF") was used on site for the RC drill samples during the program. The XRF results were compared with assayed values for nickel and copper. Both base metals had average absolute errors over 50% and thus can currently only be used as a rough guide.

Qualified Person

Hugues Longuepee, P.Geo., is the qualified person ("QP") for the Company as defined in National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information presented within this news release.

About Go Metals

Go Metals targets Canadian battery metal projects to help power a sustainable future. The Company's flagship HSP project has multiple nickel-copper sulphide targets within a 416.5 square kilometre land package north of Havre-Saint Pierre, Quebec in the Nitassinan of the Innu of Ekuanitshit.

The HSP and KM98 properties host multiple magmatic sulphide targets within a potential new nickel belt spanning hundreds of kilometres across the Havre-Saint-Pierre anorthosite complex in the Grenville Province.

For further information, please contact:

Scott Sheldon, President

604.725.1857

Scott@GoMetals.ca

Forward-Looking Information:

This press release may include "forward-looking information" (as that term is defined by Canadian securities legislation), concerning the Company's business. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company's management, including future plans for the exploration and development of its mineral properties, future production, reserve potential, and events or developments that the Company expects. Although the Company believes that such expectations and assumptions are reasonable, investors should not rely unduly on such forward-looking information as the Company can give no assurance, they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to publicly update any forward-looking information (whether because of new information, future events or results, or otherwise) other than as required by applicable securities laws. There are several risk factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those described herein. Information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at SedarPlus.ca.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195097
Madrid boss admits new F1 race may oust Barcelona

The president of the community of Madrid admits it is possible the new grand prix in the Spanish capital could mean the axe of the country's existing Formula 1 race in Barcelona.

Start, Spanish GP 2023

 Red Bull

Last week, president Isabel Diaz Ayuso hinted that the official announcement of a Madrid GP on a semi-urban circuit is scheduled for January 23.

Ahead of Tuesday's big news, she is also admitting that it could mean that Barcelona, the current host of the Spanish GP since the early 90s, loses its race.

Whether Formula 1 leaves Barcelona or not has nothing to do with Madrid, she told El Mundo newspaper.

"If an event is in danger at a given moment, I prefer that it can at least stay in Madrid or in another Spanish region before it leaves the country.

So I hope that others know how to be happy for Madrid, because we also have the right to receive investments - even if the government does not help us.

Indeed, president Ayuso slammed Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez for not offering to help fund the new Madrid GP.

We have already reached a point where I am not even asking the government for help. We simply ask them to leave the community of Madrid alone, she said.

"The government knows this because there are many people who participate in negotiations of this type, but I have not seen the slightest interest on their part in supporting us.

The relationship right now between the two administrations is not going through its best moment, the Madrid president added.
Two F1 teams with brand new names for 2024

Two Formula 1 teams are heading into the 2024 season with completely different official names.

Daniel Ricciardo, Abu Dhabi GP 2023

 Red Bull

Red Bull is yet to confirm the news, but website and Instagram domain leaks suggest that Alpha Tauri's official new name will be Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

Registration of visacashapprb.com and racingbulls.com have both been traced back to Red Bull and Faenza based Alpha Tauri, while reports late last week suggested the team's Instagram handle will be 'visacashapprb'.

Cash App was already a minor Red Bull Racing sponsor.

Meanwhile, with Alfa Romeo now departed F1, the new official name for the Swiss-based Sauber team this season will be Stake F1 - in deference to Australian online casino sponsor Stake.

The Stake team (pronounced Sauber) will begin the car launches on February 5, Roger Benoit, a highly-respected Swiss journalist, wrote in Blick.

It will happen in London, to circumvent the advertising ban for gambling in Switzerland, he added.

Stake will be a short-term official name for Sauber, with Audi taking over for 2026.

One driver linked with a future drive at Audi is Carlos Sainz, who was at the finish line at the weekend as his famous father won the Dakar rally for the fourth time.

Sainz snr, 61, drives an electric Audi with Red Bull sponsorship - although his son greeted his father donning a white Ferrari-branded jumper.

Is it true or not that Audi, via his legendary father, has offered Sainz the steering wheel of the former Sauber team from 2026? wonders Leo Turrini, a well-known Italian journalist, in Quotidiano Nazionale.

Why has Carlos, like (Charles) Leclerc, still not signed the renewal with Ferrari? He will sign, they assure me. But when?

Sainz jr, 29, told the Spanish newspaper AS that his wish for the 2024 season - his last contracted year in red for now - is a better racing car .

It has been said that the 2023 car suited me well - that I liked it, he said. "Honestly, it gave me headaches. It was very difficult to understand.
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Two more Realme Note phones coming this year, target is 10M sales of the series in 2024

The Realme Note 50 is on its way, and it will not be alone. The company has big plans for the series with three phones coming by the end of the year and a sales goal of 10 million units.

Francis Wong, CEO of Realme Europe and Global Marketing Director revealed the ambitious plans and shed some more light on the availability of the company's new series.

The first Realme Note smartphone will be launched in the Philippines on January 23, and there will be two more joining it in the next couple of months.

Realme's Note lineup will be plugging the sub-$100/100 hole in the company's portfolio. That is to say it will be positioned lower than other makers' Note series, which are typically mid-range affairs. The Realme Note phones will be rolling to just about every market where the company does business over the next couple of years.

The notable exception is India, where Realme believes it has a rich enough portfolio. The other one is China, where Realme is an online-first brand. Realme expect the Note series to be mainly purchased by people who seek physical hands-on experience before purchase.

The aim is to sell 10 million units in 2024 alone. The company is confident the superior build quality of its Note series will help it acheve that - it promises better designs and higher quality materials than the competition.

Realme also claims it will offer superior quality control - a traditional pain point for entry-level devices - and better after-sales support. While we got no specifics on the length of software support, Realme said it will aim to offer longer warranties and more updates compared with direct rivals.
CHamoru artist Gisela McDaniel was named in Forbes Magazines 2024 30 Under 30 list for her work  much of which is inspired by her cultural values and lived experience.

McDaniels art has been shown around the world  New York, Los Angeles, London, Germany, India, Boston and more. Her work has been exhibited at Jeffrey Deitch, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Institute of Contemporary Art Miami and the Baltimore Museum of Art.

McDaniels style weaves together different media forms, including oil painting, audio, found objects and motion sensors. McDaniels identity as a CHamoru woman shapes much of her work.

My grandparents taught me about respect, she said. A lot of my values are in my process.

McDaniel uses motion sensor technology as a physical boundary that causes the viewer to interact with the artwork with such respect, thinking of the work as an object, precious and vulnerable, she said.

Art for self-expression

McDaniel grew up in the Midwestern U.S. and began drawing at 8 years old.

My mom signed me up for art classes at the community center. I was the youngest one there, she said. This was a big way of communicating for me  one of my first languages where I could express myself and create worlds.

The young artist loved drawing, painting, and ripping up old magazines to create collages. McDaniel also explored photography, saved up money to buy a camera, and started shooting wedding photos for money.

Most of my paintings are done from photographs, she said. My vantage point of using photographic images from a young age. Its celebratory and fun capturing beauty, telling a story, and playing with mediums as a teenager.

She went on to study art at university while also taking academic courses to balance her education beyond painting.

Making art takes tolls, it takes resources, and its not always something everybody can afford, McDaniel said. Art isnt an industry you go to school for, you learn from people. The challenge is finding the resources, finding the right mentors, finding people who understand you.

Alchemizing trauma through art

In a competitive industry, another challenge many visual artists face is what to make their work about and what their style is, McDaniel said.

I think that found me in a lot of ways through my life experiences, and I was able to start healing through making, she said. I realized it was something I wanted to share with people, and it was bigger than me and bigger than making something beautiful or cute. It felt like something I needed to do.

McDaniel is known for her work depicting survivors of sexual violence, colonialism and racism.

I found something I wanted to share with the world, and it was a difficult process, how that found me, she said. Sometimes you have to work through difficult times, and you transform through that, you find new solutions. You alchemize it.

Called home to create

As an adult, McDaniel felt a calling to come home to Guam to create.

Its been wonderful to meet so many people through my practice and learn about peoples stories, to be able to go back to Guam, she said. To learn from people back home, to hear their stories has been precious to me.

While attending university, McDaniel found that most of her art history classes focused on men. She wondered how the women subjects felt when being painted.

Coming from a matrilineal society, McDaniel focuses on portraying women and femme-identifying individuals in her work  which includes interviewing subjects with utmost respect and care.

Im documenting people Ive learned from and really care about who have amazing stories of resilience, how we move through our lives with grace, how you carry your heritage, you dont know somebodys story, she said.

Her work centers on celebrating the way people carry themselves and asking viewers to respect other peoples stories. Especially when depicting women, safety is important, McDaniel said.

Ive been recording a lot of the wisdoms about how to stay safe in this world, McDaniel said. The intimate advice and knowledge we share with each other, and making sure that our stories arent erased.

This process of getting to know subjects she will portray is reciprocal, which is also in line with her CHamoru values.

Being invited into somebodys space or land includes gift-giving  its an exchange rather than being extracted.

Boundaries, respect, permission

McDaniels pieces always include an oral history component because it is important to her to allow indigenous voices to speak for themselves.

Its also about respecting the land, using organic materials and plants with permission, and letting those speak for themselves as well, she said.

Her work incorporates proximity motion sensors, so that when someone walks up to a piece, it can tell if youre within 3 feet of the painting and will begin to talk through its accompanying audio component.

This is to symbolize physical boundaries that are often ignored and should be respected. The work commands respect and reverence from its viewers.

McDaniels work includes found objects and consensual artifacts gifted to the artist from the subjects who consent to be interviewed and portrayed.

If you want to interact with the work, you have to ask permission, she said. From an indigenous perspective, thinking about stolen artifacts throughout the world, things that were special and weve chosen to adorn ourselves with. Sometimes the world doesnt deserve our stories, the painting is ultimately for our community.

Uniquely CHamoru in the art world

As a CHamoru artist, McDaniel feels a personal responsibility to share Guams issues on a global scale with care and reverence.

Being an artist is to share your perspective, she said. I think people from Guams perspective, no matter who you are or where youre from, is important.

In McDaniels experience, there arent many people from Pacific Islander backgrounds in the art world.

All of our voices are really important, she said. Remember that your voice is important and it touches other people.

Advice to young Pacific Islander artists

To young artists, McDaniel said the trick is to be confident  even if you have to fake it for a long time  and give yourself time to grow. Dont let your fear of the way others view you stop you from creating, and keep working at it a little every day.

Its also about making bad work, too, she said. Even if you make something small or big, let yourself make it  you can always throw out the bad stuff. Give yourself grace, let yourself experiment, play with different mediums. Its about telling a story.

Seeing work by other young artists from Guam is special to her and resonates in a unique way.

Nobody can portray something in the exact same way as you, she said. Nobody has the same life as you and everyone deserves to create. We are all creators.

Future exhibits

McDaniels work will be exhibited in Seoul and Hong Kong this year.

She is currently working on an exhibit for the 2025 Hawaii Triennial, which is the states largest, periodic exhibition of contemporary art from Hawaii, the Pacific, and beyond. The multi-site exhibition will be on view from Feb. 15 to May 4, 2025.
Guam Fire Department rescue crews brought a 13-year-old boy to safety, and CPR was initiated on an 8-year-old boy at Asan Beach Jan. 22, 2024.
A cannabis cultivator looking to open shop on Guam has hit a roadblock while trying to meet Guam Waterworks Authority requirements.

Stephen Biscoe, a representative with Greenlands Farm, Inc., spoke to members of the Cannabis Control Board during its monthly meeting on Monday to talk about the status of the companys application.

He said getting clearance from GWA has been an issue because the agency is asking the company to provide mechanical and engineering schematics, but the engineers that Greenlands Farm has been working with said they wont sign off on those schematics without guidance from GWA.

Biscoe said its a circular roadblock and theyve tried to see how they can move forward with the issue.

So far, the company has been able to get clearances from the Guam Fire Department and the Department of Public Health and Social Services, but GWA remains an issue, Biscoe said.

He said the schematics requirement was also a money issue because providing one to GWA before they started to build may require them to make changes once they start actual construction.

The company would have to pay to make schematics to get a license and another right before they build it, he said. That would double the cost for the company, so they wanted to make it so that the schematics wouldnt change, but that took more time to do.

Biscoe said the engineers say the plans look good, but they dont want to sign off on it until they get clearance from GWA.

He told board members hes afraid that GWA will tell engineers to figure it out and do what they think is correct, but engineers dont know what is correct because the were no requirements made for engineers or GWA in the existing rules and regulations.

Cannabis Control Board member and Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center Director Theresa Arriola said if GWA is the roadblock, she wonders what the board can do to help move the process along.

Board chairwoman attorney Vanessa Williams said she believes its necessary at this point to write a letter to GWA asking for guidance on what the issue is and how it can be addressed.

So we identify the problem first and then we go try and fix it, she said.

It sounds like private engineers are not wanting to put together something that wont be a sure thing, which could be a new industry problem, she said.

But the issue wont be clear until GWA can clarify what it needs to move the cannabis applications forward.

Williams thanked Biscoe for updating the board and told him they would try to determine what the issues are from GWAs perspective so they can try to get some movement in the process.

Department of Revenue and Taxation Deputy Director Craig Camacho provided an update for another company, Blue Wave, Inc., and told the board they are also pending GWA clearance.

Blue Wave Inc., doing business as Pacific Analytic Services, is hoping to be a cannabis testing laboratory on Guam.

At least one lab needs to open before any legitimate cannabis sales can start on Guam, per local industry regulations. Everything that comes from a cannabis grower or manufacturer has to be tested for potency and safety at a certified facility before it can go to market.

It is doubly necessary that we reach out to GWA and figure out the root of this problem, Williams said.

Recreational adult use of cannabis has been legal on Guam since 2019, but the rules and regulations needed for an actual, legit industry to operate werent finalized by the Cannabis Control Board until late 2022 due to a number of delays, and lack of approval from the Office of the Attorney General.

In the meantime, no regulated cannabis store has yet opened.
A man with a pending 2022 felony case involving vehicular negligence with injuries has been charged with DWI, according to a magistrate's complaint filed in Superior Court.

Paul A.D. Leefiyang, 44, had a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.233%, almost three times Guam's legal limit of 0.08%, according to charging documents.

Leefiyang was charged with driving while impaired, driving while impaired BAC and driving with an open container of alcohol, all as misdemeanors.

At 4:03 p.m. Saturday, a police officer stopped a 2014 Toyota Tacoma that ran a red light.

As the officer approached the vehicle, the driver, Leefiyang, "exited his car and was observed stumbling and using his left hand to support himself," the complaint stated.

The officer smelled alcohol and noted that Leefiyang had bloodshot, watery eyes. When asked if he had been drinking, Leefiyang said he had, and the officer saw several open cans of Budweiser in the vehicle, according to the complaint.

Leefiyang also admitted that an open can of beer in the middle cup holder, moist with condensation, belonged to him.

Leefiyang declined to take the standard field sobriety test, but he did take the breathalyzer test at the police station, the complaint stated.

If convicted in the current case, he faces two years in prison.

According to documents provided by the Office of the Attorney General, Leefiyang was charged with vehicular negligence with injuries in the 2022 case.
Moda Ginos is offering scholarships to two graduating seniors from each high school who have plans to attend the University of Guam, Guam Community College, or GCA Trades Academy as a full-time student.

Each recipient will be awarded a total of $1,000 for their first year with $500 given per semester, which can be used for needs the student may have for school such as textbooks, gas, food, and electronics.

The award will be granted based on a combination of grade point average, leadership and financial need.

Those who are interested in applying must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 90%, be a current graduating senior with good standing from any of the Guam high schools, be a resident of Guam and have been on island for the past two consecutive years, and be enrolled as a full-time student at UOG, GCC, or GCA Trades Academy.

The complete application must include the application form, an official high school transcript, and two letters of recommendation from a counselor, teacher, or community organization official.

Only if selected should the students provide proof of full-time enrollment into UOG, GCC, or the GCA Trades Academy for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The deadline to submit completed applications is on May 25.

For the process of selection, the Scholarship Committee will review applications to ensure criteria eligibility and hold an interview panel to choose the top two students from each high school.

Students awarded the scholarship must secure a minimum cumulative GPA of 90% from UOG or GCC for the first semester and be enrolled full time to receive the second award.

The students awarded the scholarship and attending GCA Trades Academy must show proof of enrollment for the core curriculum to receive the first half of the award and proof of enrollment for a trades course to receive the second half of the award.

Moda Ginos has provided the scholarship for the past 10 years and recently had the last check disbursement for the Partners in Education Scholarship for school year 2023-2024, held at the Ginos store in Tamuning on Jan. 8.

Helping families in need

Besides the scholarship offered for students, Moda Ginos also continues to provide support for individuals and families in need through its Moda Ginos Care Packages Program.

Moda Ginos on Tuesday donated 50 care packages each to the mayors offices of Sinajana and Yona.

Acquisition specialist of Moda Ginos, Cassandra Sachdev, said the program began in February 2022 when the Moda Ginos team donated the first batch of care packages to the mayors office of Inalahan.

She said the packages are distributed by the mayors office and given to not just families, but also the senior citizens or manamko and the homeless people that come by the mayors office.

The care packages consist of non-perishable food and toiletry items such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste. They are made possible using funds exclusively from Moda Ginos.

Sachdev said 50 care package bags are usually donated to least populated villages such as Chalan Pago, and 80 to 100 care package bags to larger populated villages such as Dededo and Yigo.

In hopes to continue helping individuals and families in need, Moda Ginos makes it a goal to donate care packages to one village per month.
Developer Northern Market LLC wants to build a shopping center on ancestral lands along Route 3 and Marine Corps Drive in Dededo, but owes the Guam Ancestral Lands Commission $1.8 million in arrears, according to the commission last week.

Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Jan. 30 with Eduardo Calvo, one of the partners in the venture, to see whether a resolution to the unpaid rent can be worked out.

Northern Market LLC in 2013 secured a lease on a 13-acre parcel of ancestral land across the Guam Regional Medical City, with plans to develop a multi-million dollar shopping center on the site.

The project has yet to get off the ground, though Calvo in December said there has already been $2 million invested into the project.

The developer is now asking the commission to continue to defer the $27,854 a month rental payments on the property across GRMC until construction can be completed, possibly by 2027, past GALC meeting minutes show.

Thats meant to allow the venture to start generating money for rental payments.

In exchange, the developer is offering to cut the Lands Commission on 50% worth of participation rent on the proceeds from the shopping center.

According to an estimate from the Guam Economic Development Authority to the commission in December, that amount would clear up arrears owed on the property by May 2029, and generate the Lands Commission an estimated $51 million by the end of the lease term in 2064.

Alternatively, leasing out the property at current fair market value would generate about $28 million over that same time period.

A list of shops and restaurants interested in the project has already been laid out, GALC meeting minutes show.

In phase one of the project, Community First and Kings Restaurant will be be constructing spaces on pads erected on the site, along with a 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse for popular Japanese dollar-store Daiso.

After that, phase two will consist of a multi-tenant facility consisting of Pieology, Ajisen Ramen, Gourmet Guam, and a new curry house, among others, in 2,000 to 3,500 sq. ft. shops.

Finally, the remainder of the property will be developed for the third phase, which has yet to lock in tenants.

But GALC commissioners last week were concerned about arrears owed to them by several commercial tenants that own occupied land.

Outstanding debts have caused increased scrutiny from the Legislature.

Lets wake up people, its been 10 years, Commissioner Ron Laguana said.

GALC Chairman Ron Eclavea said the issue with arrears has been put on the back burner for a while.

In particular, the Northern Markets arrears, which he said is coming back to haunt us now, significantly.

Northern Markets Calvo was not present at last weeks meeting, as he was off-island, GEDA property manager Diego Mendiola told commissioners, though he did want to sit down and discuss the matter.

Calvo in December told commissioners that if Northern Markets proposal to continue the deferral of rent wasnt granted, they would walk away from the project. He said they were willing to give up on their developer profit in order to see it through.

A report on the Northern Market situation has already been prepared, and commissioners will review it prior to a Jan. 30 meeting.
Air forces from around the world have begun arriving in Guam to participate in Cope North 2024, which runs from Feb. 5 to 23 and is expected to have about 2,400 participants.

Cope North is the U.S. Pacific Air Forces largest annual multilateral exercise.

Approximately 1,700 U.S. airmen, Marines, and sailors will train alongside 700 Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Royal Australian Air Force, French Air and Space Force, Royal Canadian Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force service members in Cope North 2024, according to a news release from Andersen Air Force Base.

About 85 aircraft from the United States, Australia, Japan, France, and South Korea will fly 1,400 missions across three islands and six airfields.

Cope North is a multinational, U.S. Pacific Air Forces-sponsored, field training exercise focused on airborne integration for large-force employment and agile combat employment.

The United States, Australian, and Japanese air forces, who work as tri-lateral exercise leads, will establish command and control and organize training for the multinational task force of six participating nations and observers.

Exercise activities will take place at Andersen Air Force Base and Northwest Field Guam; Antonio B. Won Pat Guam International Airport; and the Commonwealth Northern Mariana Islands Tinian and Saipan.

Cope North 2024 aims to further integrate ally and partner contributions towards enhancing security and stability to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Established initially in 1978 as a quarterly bilateral exercise held at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Cope North moved to Andersen AFB in 1999, and became a tri-lateral exercise in 2012 with the addition of the Royal Australian Air Force.
The University of Guam has announced the appointments of six academic administrators.

Each of these individuals has shown unwavering dedication to UOGs mission of Ina, Deskubre, Setbe and to the well-being and success of our students, UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez said. I am looking forward to working with them in their new roles as we propel the University forward.

Santos-Bamba

Sharleen Santos-Bamba has been named senior vice president and provost after a nationwide search. Santos-Bamba now fills the position vacated by Enriquez when she became the 12th president of UOG.

A UOG alumna, Santos-Bamba joined UOG 20 years ago as a part-time instructor in the English Department at the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.

In 2015, right after she received tenure as faculty, she stepped up to be the associate dean at the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. She served as interim vice provost, beginning in January 2022 and as interim senior vice president in August 2023.

She holds a Ph.D. in English from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a graduate certificate in Management Development from Harvard Graduate School of Education, a Master of Arts in Literacy Education from Pacific Lutheran University in Washington State, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from UOG.

Peralta

Pamela Peralta is the interim vice provost, Office of Research and Programs. She joined the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs in 2020 and led ORSP to achieving a streamlined grant management system and a tenfold increase in grant applications.

She holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, Hawaii; a Doctorate in Education in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, Hawaii; and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with emphasis in French Studies and Hispanic Studies from Mills College, California.

Peralta will also continue in her role as director of Grants and Contracts.

Wen

Yuming Wen is the new director of the Water and Environmental Research Institute of the Western Pacific. Wen joined UOG as a tenure-track assistant professor of Geographic Information Systems 19 years ago. He has conducted numerous research projects on water and environmental issues in Guam, the Northern Marianas, and the Federated States of Micronesia.

Wen received a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences with emphasis on GIS, spatial analysis and modeling, and remote sensing, from the University of Rhode Island.

He holds a Master of Engineering in Surveying from Southwest Jiaotong University, China, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Surveying, from Shandong University of Science and Technology, China.

Rojas

Gena Rojas will lead Enrollment Management and Student Success as interim dean.

Rojas began her career at UOG in 1991 as a secretary at the School of Business and Public Administration and continued her classified service as program coordinator III at the Financial Aid Office and eventually joined the ranks of UOG faculty.

She served as Extension Faculty at the College of Natural and Applied Sciences and as faculty in the School of Business and Public Administration and was the director of the Regional Center for Public Policy. She now returns to her roots in student affairs.

Rojas received her Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Public Policy and Social Change from Union Institute and University in Ohio. She earned her Masters Degree at Syracuse Universitys Maxwell School of Public Administration and International Affairs, and her Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from UOG.

Vuki

Maika Vuki is the new interim associate dean in the Colleges of Natural and Applied Sciences. He has spent 19 years as an instructor at UOG and 15 years at the University of South Pacific.

He has taught General Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry at the undergraduate level, and Environmental Chemistry and Electrochemistry at the graduate level. He chaired UOGs Chemistry Program for 14 years.

He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Southampton, a Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of Auckland, and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the South Pacific.

Sant

Professor Andrea Sant is the new interim associate director, Telecommunications and Distance Education, Online Learning.

She joined UOG in 2006 where she has been teaching in the Division of English and Applied Linguistics. She has served as the program chair for DEAL and the Master of Arts in English Program as well as on the Faculty Senate and WASC Report Writing Team III.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sant led the Online Teaching Resources team in the creation of the I Meyeng UOG-Certified Online Teacher program, a 100-hour faculty development training series to enhance the Universitys capacity to teach online with Moodle.

Sant holds a Ph.D. in American Literature from Miami University (Ohio), a Master of Arts in American Literature from New Mexico State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from North Arizona University.
Senators on Monday voted to advance five bills to the third reading file, including one that would plug regulatory loopholes to deal with illegal quarrying and another that seeks to ban individuals convicted of official misconduct from being rehired in the government of Guam.

Also among those moving forward is a bill to cut the bureaucratic red tape in dealing with the removal of abandoned and junk vehicles.

But a bill seeking to eliminate the Sinajana vice mayors position failed to make it to the session agenda, with only three senators voting in favor of the motion.

Sen. Joanne Brown said advancing Bill 30-37, which would prohibit GovGuam re-employment for those convicted of official misconduct, is a long time coming, considering that it died in committee during the prior Legislature.

Brown said the discretion given to department or agency heads has been abused in this government.

She cited as a disturbing example in which a Department of Public Works bus driver repeatedly molested children from 9 to 17 years old whom he was entrusted to drive to and from school.

In one particular case, the senator said, the DPW director only suspended for 15 days a bus driver who was having sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old student he was supposed to transport daily.

Another example was the rehiring of a public school teacher who was having sexual intercourse with an underage student.

Brown also cited as an example the Port Authority of Guams hiring of a former Department of Corrections officer who, in 2019, pled guilty to official misconduct as a misdemeanor for his role in bringing in drugs in prison.

That Port employee has since been promoted from being a safety coordinator to marina manager, and bill co-sponsor Sen. Chris Barnett questioned how that individual had been given the authority over control of a port of entry when he was convicted of an official misconduct related to drugs while being a law enforcement officer.

Besides Barnett, others including Sens. Thomas Fisher, Dwayne San Nicolas, Telo Taitague, Sabina Perez, Frank Blas and Jesse Lujan rose in support of the bill.

Blas proposed amendment to raise the penalty fine from up to $1,000 to up to $20,000, passed, and the floor-amended measure was sent to the third reading file.

Illegal quarrying

Speaker Therese Terlajes Bill 116-37, which also advanced to the third reading file, is a response to mounting concerns about mining operations on Guam, particularly those operating under permits for clearing and grading yet are doing illegal quarrying or mining.

The speaker recognized the heightened value of coral aggregate, crucial for both military and local developments and the heightened pressure on agencies to issue permits, given the surge in development projects, including those for the Department of Defense.

She said the bill closes loopholes in Guam law to better regulate operations where projects permitted for clearing and grading were unmistakably operating as quarries.

This bill is really intended to mitigate problems for those who are under clearing and grading permits currently conducting mining operations or quarrying operations, Terlaje said at the session floor.

She cited examples that GovGuam agencies reported in recent years, including those from the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, which in late 2021, started flagging applications for clearing and grading permits.

As of their report, there have been at least 60 notices of violation between 2018 and 2021 for clearing and grading, including one company for performing clearing, grading, grubbing, embankment, filling, excavation and other earthmoving activities across an area of just over 29 acres, with a grading permit, the speaker said.

She cited DPWs denial of renewal for at least one permit, including activities at the Guam Raceway Park because of extensive removal of minerals far beyond any plan that was submitted to them and far beyond any approval. There were other examples.

This bill is landmark legislation that closes the gaps of illegal quarrying under a clearing and grading permit, and harmful quarrying on agriculturally zoned land. It is a pivotal step toward effective oversight and protection of the land and its resources, including the drinking water and food that we rely on, the speaker said in a statement after a session break, and thanked those who helped with the bills development.

Junk vehicle disposal

Senators sent to the third reading file Perezs Bill 104-37, which would remove bureaucratic red tape thats derailed progress in removing and disposing of abandoned and junk vehicles around Guam.

The bill would streamline the process of removing abandoned and junk vehicles, which pose safety, health and environmental hazards.

Perezs bill seeks to allow for an abandoned vehicle to be removed by the Department of Public Works or any peace officer if the vehicle has been parked for more than 24 hours on public or private property without the expressed consent of the landowner.

Thats just the start of a revamped process to deal with what Perez described as the epidemic of abandoned and junk vehicles.

More than 8,000 vehicles are imported to Guam annually, she said, adding that its demoralizing to see so many junk or abandoned vehicles around the island.

Senators also sent to the third reading file Browns Bill 166-37, which would require GovGuam boards and commissions meeting audio and/or video files to be posted on their respective agencies website, with a link to the Office of Public Accountabilitys website.

Also sent to the third reading file was Terlajes Bill 169-37, on the publication of nonprofit organizations financial information.

Sinajana vice mayor bill

Sen. William Parkinsons Bill 230-37, which would abolish the position of Sinajana vice mayor mainly because of the villages shrinking population, now at about 2,600, got only three votes to place it on the session agenda.

Only Parkinson, San Nicolas and Taitague voted in support of Parkinsons motion.

If we wait to abolish this position until the end of February, we will incur election expenses for a position we are going to eliminate. Im trying to eliminate the wasted cost of printing all these ballots and the cost of setting up a special election, Parkinson said in a statement. I hope that after reading the committee report on the bill, the rest of my colleagues will have a change of heart. This was Vice Mayor Rudys last wish, and I hope to honor that wish.

The Guam Election Commission has started preparing for the special election to fill the vacancy left by Iriartes passing.

While the special election is March 9, the start of filing candidate packets is Feb. 8 and the start of homebound voting is Feb. 26.

Voting file

At the start of the session, senators voted unanimously for Joaquin P. Taitague, the lone nominee, to be appointed clerk or attache of the Legislature.

Senators also sent to the voting file eight of the governors nominations to various GovGuam boards and commissions, with recommendations to confirm:

Janalynn C. Damian, to serve as a member of the Guam Board of Equalization Christopher L. Duenas, to serve as a member of the University of Guam Board of Regents Francisco A. Florig, to serve as a member of the Guam Housing Corp. Board of Directors Lilian Opena Guerrero, to serve as a member of the GHC board Ronald C. Pangilinan, to serve as a member of the Guam Land Use Commission Michael J.S. Rabago, Ph.D., to serve as a member of the Department of Parks and Recreation Commission Gurvinder S. Sobti, to serve as a member of the A.B. Won Pat International Airport Authority Board of Directors Victor R. Torres, to serve as a member of the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority Board of Commissioners.

Session resumes at 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Mayors Council of Guam President and Piti Mayor Jesse Alig testify in support of Del. James Moylans H.R. 6273, the Guam Host Community Compensation Act, which was heard by the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Friday Guam time in Washington, D.C.
On Friday, a Florida attorney pleaded guilty to tax evasion and conspiracy to defraud the United States after orchestrating an illicit tax shelter scheme designed to help high income clients minimize their tax liabilities though fabricated charitable deductions.

According to the Department of Justice, Michael L. Meyer of Davie, Florida, pocketed more than $10 million from the fraudulent plot  using his newfound wealth to indulge in a lavish lifestyle that included acquiring a multimillion dollar estate and amassing a collection of luxury vehicles, featuring Lamborghinis, Rolls-Royces, Mercedes-Benzes, a Bentley and a Ferrari.

Court documents show that from about 2013-2023, Meyer organized and sold the Ultimate Tax Plan, which made it appear that his clients had donated valuable property to charities that he controlled  but instead, authorities say, clients retained complete control over the donated assets.

The Justice Department filed a civil suit against Meyer in 2018 to halt his promotion of the Ultimate Tax Plan. During the litigation, authorities say, Meyer fabricated backdated documents and instructed clients to submit them when responding to civil subpoenas. A federal district court permanently barred Meyer from organizing, promoting, marketing or selling the Ultimate Tax Plan in April 2019.

A date for sentencing hasnt yet been set, but Meyer could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each charge, a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.




Haiti - FLASH : Exodus, the number of Haitian migrants in Mexico explodes





The exodus of Haitians is worsening in Mexico with an increase in irregular migration 13 times greater than in 2022.



The drama of the exodus from Haiti is becoming more acute in Mexico, where asylum requests by Haitians climbed 157% year-on-year in 2023 and their irregular migration was nearly 13 times higher than that recorded last year. former.



The Migration Policy Unit of the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB) reports having detected 41,705 irregular migrants from Haiti between January and November 2023, more than 13 times than the 2,910 Haitians detected during the same period in 2022.



In addition, Haiti replaced Honduras as the main country of origin of petitioners before the Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR), with 44,239, more than double the 17,220 requests from Haiti in 2022.



This means that more than one in three asylum requests out of the 140,982 asylum requests (record number) received by Mexico in 2023 came from Haitians.



However, it should be noted that unlike migrants of other nationalities who seek to reach the United States, a good number of Haitians are more willing to settle in Mexico.



S/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Education : The strengthening of school libraries across the country continues





The 80/20 initiative aimed at creating and/or strengthening school libraries/media libraries nationwide continues https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41082-haiti-education-towards-libraries-in-public-and-private-schools-in-the-country.html



Let's remember that as part of a Public/Private partnership, the 80/20 initiative, article 3.2 of the agreement stipulates that for every 100 books, the State buys 80 while the publishing houses part of the Okay, will give away 20 for free.



The Vision Nouvelle institution (Delmas 33) and the Republic of Guatemala National School (Petion-ville) received batches of books, as part of this partnership between the Ministry of National Education and publishing houses of the place https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41221-haiti-libraries-public-private-partnership-between-the-ministry-of-education-and-publishers.html



These two book delivery ceremonies to these educational institutions, involving Maison C3 Editions and Maison Henri Deschamps, were chaired, one after the other, by the Minister of National Education Nesmy Manigat, two occasions for the Minister to emphasize, once again, the importance of reading in academic performance "It is always with great emotion that I take part in these activities. It is extremely important for our children to stay connected to books and reading. Reading is the first skill that children must master to better acquire knowledge. This is why the Ministry has dedicated the year 2024 to reading."



"You must bring the book to life in your learning but also in your life," added the Minister, addressing the students who were accompanied by teaching and administrative staff.



Under the terms of this partnership, Maison C3 Editions and Maison Henri Deschamps have chosen to donate, on behalf of the Ministry, several hundred books to these two schools. The Vision Nouvelle Institution library received around 500 works from Maison C3 editions: novels, poetry, short stories, and essays from several thematic categories (history, economics, politics, etc.), while Maison Henri Deschamps delivered at the Republic of Guatemala national school, mini-mobile libraries containing 504 books, produced mainly for leisure reading.



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-41252-icihaiti-library-delivery-of-more-than-2-000-books-to-the-cent-cinquantenaire-high-school.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41221-haiti-libraries-public-private-partnership-between-the-ministry-of-education-and-publishers.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-41082-haiti-education-towards-libraries-in-public-and-private-schools-in-the-country.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Natasha Monique St. Pierre, Eagle Woman [Kiiew Iskwew], 39, began her next journey, leaving us January 12, 2024. She was born on October 21, 1984, in Bozeman, Montana, to Nathaniel and Melvina [Hinckley] St. Pierre. At the time of her passing, Natasha was living and employed in Las Vegas working as a concierge.

Natasha was preceded in death by her father Nathaniel, the greatest joy of her life, grandmother Gloria Fisher, and grandfather Roger St. Pierre, Sr.

Natasha graduated from Bozeman Senior High School in 2003. She then went to Bryman College in San Bernardino and graduated in massage therapy in 2006. One of her most-cherished accomplishments was earning her associate degree in human services from Stone Child College in 2016. This was an especially proud moment for her, because she received her diploma from her dad, who was serving as president of the college at that time. Natasha continued to work in various job ventures, but remained focused on becoming a licensed

massage yherapist.

She loved camping and spending time with her dad outdoors, as referenced by the many photographs taken in Hyalite Canyon, Gallatin National Forest, and Yellowstone Park. She also

enjoyed the many opportunities provided by her father in travelling the country and in Europe and spending time with family and friends. She embraced her culture and accompanied her father on several exchange trips to Europe, showcasing Native American dance and song with

performances in Holland and Germany.

She was an animal lover and had two prized, furry companions in her life, Socks the cat and Tino the dog. She enjoyed watching "SVU" and various crime shows as well as comedies. She enjoyed making jewelry, loved Tracy Lawrence and Eminem and had an infectious sense of humor.

Natasha spent some of her early years with her mother in Spokane, where she focused on learning ballet. While her father worked on his undergraduate and graduate degrees at MSU in Bozeman, his mother, Gloria, assisted greatly in her upbringing. She spent time in Bozeman, Rocky Boy, and Las Vegas. After the passing of her grandmother Gloria in 2005, her aunt Stefanie became her most trusted supporter and worked diligently to guide Natasha in daily struggles, challenges, and achievements. She was always there to support and encourage

Natasha and provide her comfort in times of need.

She is survived by her mother, Melvina (John) Hinckley of Spokane; sister Christine from Fort Hall, Idaho; brother, Michael (Kaitlyn) Davis of Spokane; niece Kalia; sister, Alicia (Brandon) Richardson of Olympia, Washington; aunts, Stefanie (Terry) Kujaczynski of Helena; LaCrissa, Brooke, and Brittany (Carlos) of Rocky Boy, uncles, Roger, Jr. of Rocky Boy and Voyd(Margaret) of Havre; grandmothers/aunts Betty and Judy Henderson and Mary Ruth and Donna St. Pierre of Rocky Boy; numerous other extended family within the Henderson and St. Pierre families; and best friend Kelly.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Holland and Bonine with wake services held Sunday, January 21 at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Rocky Boy. Traditional funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 22, with burial on St. Pierre Ridge, with her final resting place next to her dad, Nate.
Havre Police Department

A non-injury vehicle crash was reported Thursday at 11:57 a.m. at 13th Avenue and Third Street.

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A non-injury vehicle crash was reported at 14th Street West and Boulevard Avenue at 12:30 p.m. Thursday.

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Henry Craig Frank of Havre, 57, was arrested on a charge of unauthorized use of a vehicle after a caller at a First Street West business reported a stolen 2012 white Dodge Ram pickup truck Thursday at 4:17 p.m.

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Aliyah Brielle Eagleman of Havre, 23, was arrested on nine Justice or City court warrants after officers were asked Thursday at 5:44 p.m. to assist Havre Fire Department at a medical call on 16th Avenue.

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A non-injury vehicle crash was reported at 5:53 p.m. Thursday at 10th Street and McKinley Avenue.

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A written or verbal warning was issued after a caller at 12:21 a.m. Friday reported that a neighbor's dogs on 12th Avenue were left outside in cold temperatures.

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Kirk William Kinsella of Havre, 50, was arrested on charges of driving under the influence and tail light violation during a vehicle stop on U.S. Highway 2 Northwest Friday at 1:24 a.m.

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An arrest was made during a vehicle stop on Fourth Avenue at 4:34 a.m. Friday, but no information on the charges was provided.

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Lana Belgarde Saddler of Box Elder, 53, was issued a summons on a criminal contempt charge related to a 24/7 Sobriety Program violation reported at the police station Friday at 8 a.m.

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Officers were asked Friday at 7:36 p.m. to assist with a civil standby on Ninth Street and the incident was resolved peacefully.

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Aretha Ellen Martin of Havre, 48, was arrested on a disorderly conduct charge after a Friday 8:04 p.m. caller at the hospital reported a person who had no where to go.

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An incident on Bullhook Boulevard was resolved peacefully after a 1:59 a.m. Saturday call to 911 was disconnected after a woman was heard screaming.

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Officers removed a hazard from the road Saturday at 5:24 a.m. at Third Avenue and First Street.

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Officers removed a hazard from the road Saturday at 1:09 p.m. on Eighth Street.

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Kianna Lynda-Lou Longfox of Havre, 18, was arrested on an assault charge after a Saturday 4:43 p.m. caller on First Street reported a family member was beat up.

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A person with a dog bite was reported at the hospital at 8:03 p.m. Saturday.

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A First Street Northeast caller reported a noise complaint at 9:44 p.m. Saturday and officers resolved the incident peacefully.

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Joseph Richard Corcoran of Havre, 46, was arrested on four Justice or City court warrants after a vehicle stop on First Street at 12:09 a.m. Sunday.

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A caller south of town reported Sunday at 6:18 p.m. finding an injured deer that had been struck by a vehicle, and the caller reported he euthanized the deer.

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Danielle Jean Kraft of Peyton, Colorado, 37, was arrested on charges of aggravated DUI, expired registration and headlamp violation after a vehicle stop on Seventh Avenue at 12:21 a.m. today.

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A 15-year-old boy was issued a summons on a juvenile curfew violation charge after a 12th Avenue caller reported at 12:40 a.m. today that the juvenile had left the residence 20 minutes prior.

Hill County Sheriff's Office

Sheriff's office dispatch log reported no arrests, summonses or investigations during Thursday's 24-hour reporting period.

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Jeffery Scott Werk of Harlem, 34, was arrested on a state District Court warrant served Friday at 4:28 p.m. while being held at Hill County Detention Center.

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Willdette Mary Duran of Havre, 37, was arrested on a Justice or City court warrant after a theft, forgery or fraud was reported at a U.S. Highway 2 West business Friday at 6:17 p.m.

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Deputies investigated a theft, forgery or fraud reported Saturday at 3:25 p.m. on 11th Street North.

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An arrested was made at 6:51 p.m. Saturday on a warrant at the detention center, but no details on charges were provided.

Montana Highway Patrol

Troopers responded Sunday at 9:18 a.m. to a single-vehicle crash with an injury near mile marker 62 on U.S. Highway 87 south of Big Sandy. Responding Trooper Tyrel Hendrickson said the driver of the vehicle lost control due to black ice conditions. Of the vehicle's six occupants, one person was injured in the crash and transported to the Big Sandy medical facility. No citations were issued.

Havre Fire Department

Emergency medical technicians responded to five calls Thursday, including three accompanying firefighters at vehicle crashes with no injuries; three calls Friday, including one to Kremlin; five calls Saturday; and two calls Sunday.

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Firefighters responded to three vehicle crashes Thursday.

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Firefighters responded to two gas calls, one at 11:10 a.m. Saturday on the 600 Block of 17th Street and the other at 4:40 a.m. Sunday on the 600 Block of Second Street.

Havre Animal Shelter

This morning the animal shelter held two cats of unknown gender, one female cat and three male cats.

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Also this morning, the animal shelter held 15 puppies between 12 weeks and 10 months old, one female mixed-breed dog and one male mixed-breed dog. Additionally, six 17-week-old puppies were being housed off-site.

Births

A girl was born Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, to Jaclynn Waldron and Dane Jacobson of Havre.

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A girl was born Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, to Tennielle Sutherland and Michael Harris of Havre.
Gail M. (Joy) Faber, 66, passed away January 17, 2024, at home of natural causes.

A vigil Mass will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, January 26, 2024, at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church in Havre, MT.

Her funeral Mass will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday January 27, also at St. Judes, with a luncheon/reception to follow in the St. Judes Parish Center. Burial will take place this summer in a family ceremony, in her childhood home.
Natasha Monique St. Pierre, Eagle Woman (Kiiew Iskwew), 39, began her next journey, leaving us January 12, 2024. She was born October 21, 1984, in Bozeman, Montana, to Nathaniel and Melvina (Hinckley) St. Pierre. At the time of her passing, Natasha was living and employed in Las Vegas working as a concierge.

Natasha was preceded in death by her father Nathaniel, the greatest joy of her life, grandmother Gloria Fisher, and grandfather Roger St. Pierre, Sr.

Natasha graduated from Bozeman Senior High School in 2003. She then went to Bryman College in San Bernardino and graduated in massage therapy in 2006. One of her most-cherished accomplishments was earning her associate degree in human services from Stone Child College in 2016. This was an especially proud moment for her, because she received her diploma from her dad, who was serving as president of the college at that time. Natasha continued to work in various job ventures, but remained focused on becoming a licensed massage therapist.

She loved camping and spending time with her dad outdoors, as referenced by the many photographs taken in Hyalite Canyon, Gallatin National Forest, and Yellowstone Park. She also enjoyed the many opportunities provided by her father in travelling the country and in Europe and spending time with family and friends. She embraced her culture and accompanied her father on several exchange trips to Europe, showcasing Native American dance and song with

performances in Holland and Germany.

She was an animal lover and had two prized, furry companions in her life, Socks the cat and Tino the dog. She enjoyed watching "SVU" and various crime shows as well as comedies. She enjoyed making jewelry, loved Tracy Lawrence and Eminem and had an infectious sense of humor.

Natasha spent some of her early years with her mother in Spokane, where she focused on learning ballet. While her father worked on his undergraduate and graduate degrees at MSU in Bozeman, his mother, Gloria, assisted greatly in her upbringing. She spent time in Bozeman, Rocky Boy, and Las Vegas. After the passing of her grandmother Gloria in 2005, her aunt Stefanie became her most trusted supporter and worked diligently to guide Natasha in daily struggles, challenges, and achievements. She was always there to support and encourage

Natasha and provide her comfort in times of need.

She is survived by her mother, Melvina (John) Hinckley of Spokane; sister Christine from Fort Hall, Idaho; brother, Michael (Kaitlyn) Davis of Spokane; niece Kalia; sister, Alicia (Brandon) Richardson of Olympia, Washington; aunts, Stefanie (Terry) Kujaczynski of Helena; LaCrissa, Brooke, and Brittany (Carlos) of Rocky Boy, uncles, Roger, Jr. of Rocky Boy and Voyd(Margaret) of Havre; grandmothers/aunts Betty and Judy Henderson and Mary Ruth and Donna St. Pierre of Rocky Boy; numerous other extended family within the Henderson and St. Pierre families; and best friend Kelly.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Holland and Bonine with wake services held Sunday, January 21, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Rocky Boy. Traditional funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 22, with burial on St. Pierre Ridge, with her final resting place next to her dad, Nate.
More than 500 million euros will be slashed from region and country-specific development co-operation by 2028, with the government discontinuing its programmes with Afghanistan, Kenya, Mozambique and Myanmar.

MINISTER of Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio (PS) on Thursday confirmed that the government will slash appropriations for development co-operation by more than a billion euros.

The government is shifting its approach to development co-operation out of necessity, according to Tavio.

The operations will focus on combining trade and development, as well as on creating possibilities for Finnish value creation and expertise also in development policy, he outlined at a news conference. Kenya can be thought of as a good example of how a bilateral development co-operation relationship can serve as a basis for moving, through forms of development co-operation in the private sector, to trade relations that benefit Finnish companies.

The government will also implement cuts to multilateral co-operation, humanitarian assistance and development-policy loans and investments. Funding for multilateral co-operation will be cut by 160 million euro and that for humanitarian assistance by 130 million euros by 2028. Development policy loans and investments, meanwhile, will be reduced by 60 million euros a year.

Tavio highlighted that the cuts have been designed in accordance with the government programme and existing commitments.

Its better to focus on clearly defined areas in development co-operation rather than to make equal cuts across the board, he argued in a press release.

Ilmari Nalbantoglu, the director of advocacy at Fingo, stated to YLE on Thursday that the spending cuts are significant and unsurprising. What is positive, he added, is that the government has promised to discontinue the country-specific programmes in a controlled manner.

This is a very good thing. If we pulled out of there, wed only cause some harm, he said.

Nalbantoglu did criticise the minister for placing such emphasis on trade relations, however, reminding that the principal goal of development co-operation is development rather than trade. Also Finlands presence and opportunities to influence will diminish around the world as a result of the decisions.

The primary benefit should be that we can promote development and get those in the most vulnerable position out of the most wretched position. Thats also how you can create a safe and stable world, he reminded in an interview with the public broadcaster.

While the Afghanistan and Myanmar programmes will be discontinued due to lack of co-operation with the national administrations, the justification is not as convincing for the programmes with Kenya and Mozambique, said Nalbantoglu. In Kenya, for example, development co-operation efforts have focused on reducing violence against girls and women.

This isnt something you could promote with corporate-level co-operation. Finland will no longer be able to promote womens ability to move to decision-making roles in Mozambique or Kenyan youths ability to get to vocational education, he said.

Tavio said the government will focus on building more strategic relationships with its key partners during this electoral term. Ukraine will be by far the largest partner in development co-operation, with the government sending 58 million euros annually to the country through a separate budgetary item.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
I wouldnt personally be surprised even if we saw voter turnout at 75 per cent. In any case well probably be talking about an increase of several percentage points [from the previous presidential elections], Sami Borg , an election expert at the Foundation for Municipal Development (KAKS), stated to Helsingin Sanomat on Monday.

THE UPCOMING presidential elections are likely to reverse the decline in voter turnout due to factors such as the lack of a dominant candidate, reports Helsingin Sanomat.

The 2018 elections were the first in history where fewer than 70 per cent of voters exercised their right to vote.

Both Borg and Johanna Vuorelma, a university researcher at the University of Helsinki, estimated that the drop was caused by the lack of a surprise element. President Sauli Niinisto secured his second term in office expectedly by sweeping well over 60 per cent of the vote in the first round of voting.

Niinistos re-election was so sure based on polls that it had definitely an impact on voter turnout, said Borg.

Vuorelma estimated that recent polls will likely have the opposite impact on voters. Alexander Stubb (NCP) and Pekka Haavisto (Greens) are separated by only two points at the top of the latest opinion poll by Helsingin Sanomat, with the former projected to win 24 and the latter 22 per cent of the vote. Jussi Halla-aho (PS) is trailing the two leading candidates by roughly 10 points.

Now that the situation is completely up in the air, itll likely encourage people to vote more actively, said Vuorelma.

In addition to the lack of a dominant candidate, Borg and Vuorelma estimated that voter turnout could increase as a consequence of recent changes in the foreign and security policy debate in Finland.

Were choosing a president for so-called hard times. Id be very surprised if voters didnt want to express their view on who they think would fare the best in the presidents role in this time and age, noted Borg.

The first round of the presidential elections is on Sunday, 28 January 2024. The second round of voting, which will be held if no candidate receives more than 50 per cent of votes in the first round, will be held on Sunday, 11 February.

The advance voting period will end in Finland on Tuesday, 23 January 2024.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
In conversation with Helsinki Times, Sari Essayah , the leader of the Christian Democrats and a prominent presidential candidate in Finland, candidly shares her insights on a myriad of critical issues. From addressing Finlands emerging role in global conflicts and international agreements, to shedding light on the critical domestic issues of the country, the current Minister of Agriculture and Forestry offered a comprehensive perspective on the nations present and future.

Sari Essayah had earlier said that she stands out from her competitors by being the conservative choice for voters. Asked about bridging the gap between different value systems while maintaining a conservative stance, Essayah emphasized the presidents role in promoting tolerance and understanding, highlighting the importance of freedom of speech and respect for others.

The liberal candidates would have the same challenge. The presidents duty is not to make the nation to have the same opinion but to give example of tolerance and understanding, so I would underline the freedom of speech and respect for others, Essayah said.

Sharing her opinion on the outgoing President Sauli Niinistos work over two terms, Essayah rated the Presidents performance as a solid 9 on a scale of 1 to 10. Not 10, because no one is perfect. However his performance is outstanding during challenging times, Essayah told Helsinki Times.

Finlands NATO membership and global impact

Regarding Finlands recent NATO membership, Essayah pointed out that it has not affected the countrys policy in the UN but has strengthened ties with Western allies. She emphasized Finlands commitment to the rule of law, human rights, equality, and democracy in its foreign and security policy. NATO membership has not affected on our policy in the UN, but it has taken us even closer to our western allies. This positions Finland more firmly in the European and transatlantic security community. Finlands foreign and security policy is based on the rule of law, human rights, equality and democracy. Close cooperation with partners, good bilateral relations, and respect for and strengthening of multilateral international law are the cornerstones Finlands international relations, Essayah said.

Ukraine conflict and relations with Russia

Discussing the outlook for Finlands relations with Russia, Essayah highlighted the uncertainty over Russias credibility in international relations and emphasized the need to hold the Putin regime accountable for war crimes in Russias ongoing attack on Ukraine.

Russias brutal war against Ukraine is a violation of international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. It weakens security and stability in Finland and across Europe and undermines Russias credibility as a partner in international agreements. It is vital to make Putins regime accountable for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, and Russia must compensate Ukraine for the damage and destruction that is being caused. Before that, I dont see any possibility for high level political connections with Russia, Essayah said.

Addressing Finlands alignment with Ukraine, the EU, and the U.S. in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Essayah defended the countrys position. Is there a balanced approach if an aggressive country attacks a peaceful, sovereign neighboring country? In Finland we have some experience of that kind situation, Essayah remarked.

Relations with China and eastern front

While recognized Chinas growing global role as a challenge for Finland and Europe, the minister also highlighted it is an important trade partner for Finland. She also underlined the importance of reducing strategic dependencies.

Chinas growing global role and its aspirations for a new world order are a challenge for Finland and Europe. Finlands China policy is determined through Finlands membership in the European Union and NATO. The Government aims to reduce strategic dependencies on China. At the same time China is an important trading partner for Finland, and Finland will maintain functioning relations with China. The growing global confrontation and tensions between great powers have a major impact on security, the economy, technology, security of supply, industry, and trade. The erosion of the rules-based international system, the rise of power politics, barriers to free trade and the challenges caused by protectionism even among like-minded countries all challenge Finlands foreign and security policy, Essayah said.

Finlands response in Gaza conflict

On Finlands response to Israels actions in Gaza, Sari Essayah highlighted the need to condemn the earlier attack by Hamas as terrorism and pointed out Israels right to defend its borders. Essayah also emphasized the importance of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza.

I supported the Finnish line to abstain on the UN resolution because it didnt condemn the attack by the terror group Hamas neither asked for the release of hostages. I condemn terrorism and support Israels right to defend its borders. At the same time, it is important to deliver the humanitarian aid to Gaza and understand that Hamas is not representing all the people living in Gaza, but it is using them as human shields and does not care of their lives, She said.

Relations with U.S. and defence agreement

Regarding Finlands recent defence agreement with the U.S., allowing foreign military presence in Finland, Essayah highlighted that the agreement along with Finlands NATO membership strengthens security in Northern Europe and positions the country firmly in the European and transatlantic security community. By joining NATO, Finland has become a militarily allied country. Finlands NATO membership and the DCA with the USA strengthen security in Finland and stability in Northern Europe. This positions Finland more firmly in the European and transatlantic security community. As a member of NATO, Finland will maintain a credible defence capability in all circumstances and will be prepared to support its NATO allies according to its obligations, Essayah said.

Finland wants to see a stronger European Union and stronger European defense within the framework of NATO. As a member of NATO, Finland will maintain a credible defence capability in all circumstances and will be prepared to support its NATO allies according to its obligations. The article five covers also nuclear deterrence and there might be situations that Finland may allow the transportation through country, she added.

Rise of right-wing in EU and Finlands reputation

In the face of the evolving political landscape in Europe, particularly the ascent of right-wing governments, Sari Essayah shared her perspective on how this dynamic impacts Finlands global standing. Acknowledging the current center-right government, Essayah highlighted the nations commitment to respecting democratic election outcomes, even in cases where political disagreements persist.

Our government is center-right government and usually we respect the democratic result of the elections even though one might not agree on the politics. My response is the value base of our party Christian Democrats. The central value of the Christian Democrats is human dignity. Everyone is a unique and indispensable individual. Human dignity is based on a persons being, not on their doing or abilities. It is priceless, regardless of gender, age, position, religion, origin of birth or other criteria, Essayah pointed out.

Agriculture and Sustainability

In light of her extensive background as the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Sari Essayah told Helsinki Time how she envisions aligning this experience with the evolving needs of the agricultural sector. She emphasized the intrinsic link between sustainability and the competitiveness of domestic food production, and the importance of providing adequate incentives to support environmentally conscious practices within the agricultural community. The sustainability and competitiveness of domestic food production go hand in hand. Measures that have an impact either in the short or in the long term will be taken to improve profitability and solve the liquidity crisis in agriculture, Essayah said.

No decisions will be made during the Government term that will increase costs in the agricultural sector. The work done by farmers to reduce environmental loading is valuable. This work must also be cost-effective and adequate incentives must be provided for it, she highlighted.

Strengthening defence against hybrid warfare

On enhancing the resilience of the Finnish military against geopolitical threats, including cyber warfare, Essayah outlined her commitment to the comprehensive security of Finland realistically, including improving detection and prevention of cyber threats and extending powers to interfere with cyber espionage.

She elaborated, The Government will bolster comprehensive security, resilience, and security of supply. Finland will prepare for external and internal security threats realistically and decisively. In doing so, Finland will make use of new forms of international cooperation.

Expanding the focus on cybersecurity, Essayah said, The detection and prevention of cyber threats will be improved. Provisions will be laid down on powers to interfere with a device or software that is located abroad and is being used for cyber espionage or cyber interference that seriously endangers Finlands national security. We will assess extending the obligation to assist the authorities to cover service providers located in Finland, such as data center companies.

Economic challenges

In response to the current recession and debt crisis, Essayah asserted on economic priorities of the government, focusing on balancing the government finances, generating employment and safeguarding welfare services.

The priorities of the governments economic policy are economic stability, employment, economic growth, and safeguarding welfare services. The government is committed to balancing general government finances to ensure the wellbeing of the people and the sustainable development of the economy. The governments employment and growth measures, together with direct adjustment measures, will create the conditions for balanced general government finances in 2031, Essayah said.

Campaign cost and funding sources

Providing transparency, Essayah shared that the overall campaign costs amount to approximately 60,000 euros, with contributions from the party, local organizations, private donations, and her own investment. Over all costs are about 60,000 -35,000 from the party and 7,000 from partys local organizations. Private donations are 8,000 and 10,000 by me, Essayah said.

- Sonali Telang

HT
A TOTAL of 26 bids has been made to buy a former care home in Henley that has been derelict for seven years.

Chilterns End, off Greys Road, was closed by the Orders of St John Care Trust in 2016 when it moved to the new 64-bed Chilterns Court care centre next to Townlands Memorial Hospital.

The 2.3-acre site, which is owned by Oxfordshire County Council, was being marketed by Savills in December when bids were invited from developers.

The freehold is being sold with the opportunity to build about 27 homes, as set out in the joint Henley to Harpsden neighbourhood plan.

Bidders were also invited to consider making an offer for the neighbouring premises in Chilterns Close, the current home of the Chiltern Centre.

The charity, which provides care for disabled young adults, wants to sell its based to help finance a move to a new 3.5 million building at the Highlands Park development.

A spokesman for the county council said it is formally assessing the bids for the Chilterns End site from which it would create a shortlist.

He added: Once that is done further negotiation will take place. We cant be specific with any timeline at this stage.
A UKRAINIAN refugee is worried that she will become homeless again if she cannot find accommodation before her current tenancy runs out.

Anfisa Vlasova has four dogs which has made her search for a home difficult since her arrival in the UK following Russias invasion of her country in March 2022.

She has been living with a family in Remenham Hill for the past year but has to move out next month and has not yet found somewhere else to live.

Ms Vlasova travelled across Europe with her Yorkshire terriers, Nora, Betsy, Daisy and Teddy, and initially lived with a host family in Gallowstree Common under the Governments Homes for Ukraine scheme.

She moved to Bracknell after six months but was unable to find suitable accommodation.

She was offered accommodation by Bracknell Forest Council but the condition was that her dogs would have to go into kennels, which she was unwilling to agree to.

After couch-surfing, sleeping rough in a tent and staying temporarily in private homes, hotels and shelters, she moved to her current accommodation.

She has filed a homelessness claim with South Oxfordshire District Council, the housing authority, but fears her needs wont be prioritised because of her nationality and pets, which she says she cant live without.

She wants to continue working at Cecilia Quinn, a shoe shop in Bell Street, Henley, and lead a peaceful and quiet life.

Ms Vlasova said: By the end of February it will be exactly one year since that kind couple gave me shelter because before I was rough sleeping and sofa surfing and I was desperate to find accommodation.

Once I got some stability in my life, I started looking for a job and I found one at this lovely boutique here in Henley and Im really happy to work there.

If I dont find accommodation somewhere near to my work, then I will not just be homeless, Ill be jobless as well.

Im just completely under stress and all my symptoms of depression are coming back as I cant see any future.

She has ruled out the possibility of returning to Ukraine while the war continues.

Ms Vlasova formerly lived in Kharkiv, a city in north-east Ukraine under heavy shelling from Russian forces.

She said: I start every day with Ukrainian news and finish every day with Ukrainian news and the war doesnt look like its going to finish soon. For me this war started nine years ago  thats nine years of going from one apartment to another and I dont know whats going to happen in the future.

I just left my stuff with a neighbour when I had to flee the war because that area was under constant shelling and my building lost windows.

She asked me to move it by the end of December. I feel really scared to lose that amount of stuff because I dont know whats going to happen with our visas, how long we will be here, and I have no place to go.

I have problems there, I have problems here. Sometimes I just want to disappear. I dont know why I am on this earth and what the purpose is for me to keep fighting.

Sometimes I feel like I cant cope with these problems anymore on my own. I have no relatives even to share my problems with.

The only thing I can keep doing is asking people and expecting some compassion, some mercy for my

situation.

She says a lot of offers of accommodation have come with strings attached that left her feeling vulnerable and exploited.

Ms Vlasova said: It was upsetting for me to have some men trying to take some advantage of this situation instead of just helping. They said things like: Oh, you look so cute, you can stay with me, I have a spare room.

These experiences put her off accepting offers from men.

Ms Vlasova said: Im not saying all single men are bad but after that experience, I cant trust anyone anymore.

Its very rare you find some generous people like, for example, the people who gave me shelter through the Henley Refugee Support Group. I am very appreciative for that year of a quiet and peaceful life.

One man in Bracknell I stayed with for a week was generous and he gave me help and support without expecting anything.

Hes a kind person who worked in a care business all his life, just looking after people. He was kind and soft-hearted and Im really appreciative of him.

The people Im currently staying with are Christian and theyre very generous and very kind.

They didnt get any thank-you payment from the council  they didnt apply for that  and they havent charged me anything. They have allowed me to stay with my dogs for one year.

Ms Vlasova is unwilling to be parted from her dogs.

She said: People who are surrounded by their family members wont be able to understand what these dogs mean for me. I consider the dogs my family. Theyre giving me unconditional love and thats the reason why Im still alive.If the council wants to separate me from my dogs, theres no point in me to keep living. Trust me, I am already fed up with this life. This is not a life, this is fighting for survival for nine years.

People keep forgetting this war didnt start in 2022, it started in 2014. Now for me its deja vu.

All these horrible things which I went through in Ukraine  being an internally displaced person, charities providing us with psychological support and art therapy, standing in long queues at the Red Cross for some kind of support  I am now going through that again.

At that time in Ukraine, I was a single mother raising my daughter. It was difficult to get accommodation when we had to move from Donetsk because many people in the community blamed us and wouldnt give us accommodation if we were from Donetsk or Luhansk.

People doubled rent for refugees because it wasnt

controlled.

My mum was alive and even with her small pension from working as a teacher, she tried to support us.

Now my mum has passed away and my daughter is in America but shes hardly surviving on her own. One family offered her accommodation because she was in the same position, so now shes staying with them and at least my child is not on the street.

I just want to have some space and have a quiet and peaceful life and work. Im very appreciative of this country, I simply need some support.

The only thing Im asking from the council is to have pet-friendly accommodation where I can finally stay with my dogs and keep moving forward.

Ms Vlasova also worries that people will become unwilling to offer accommodation as the war in Ukraine continues.

She said: Now people just want to return to their previous life, to be able to use their accommodation for their own needs, to keep their friends. Its understandable but where I can go?

A lot of Ukrainians received social accommodation even when they came from areas not involved in the conflict.

If our visas expire and arent extended, those people will go back to their homes which are safe, not under occupation and not destroyed by shelling.

But even if I wanted to return to Donetsk, which is my mums home town, I couldnt register property on my name because Im Ukrainian. I have no place to go back to. I have a Ukrainian passport but as soon as I arrived in a government-controlled area, I would have to sleep on the street.

Ms Vlasova says she has returned to taking antidepressants and the mental stress is taking a toll on her work.

Im just trying to survive, she said. Im trying to do something but sometimes I just feel like I have hit a wall which Im not able to break through. Im so tired, Im exhausted.

Christmas and New Year were always times for magic, something really special, when I could feel like a child again. I had my family, my daughter and mum with me. Now I have no mum and my daughter is in the US. I feel so lonely with just my dogs.

She said she had one Christmas miracle this year: a secret Santa gift from a stranger.

Ms Vlasova said: One gentleman saw me on television and added me as a friend without any nasty phrases and since then he has sent me greetings cards for events like independence day in Ukraine.

He asked me for my address and I got a parcel from him. It was packed so nicely with things like sweets and dog treats. It was so sweet and heart-touching that someone who has never met me thought to give me a gift at Christmas and wanted to make my Christmas nice. It really improved my mood.

A spokeswoman for South Oxfordshire District Council said: Were aware of this residents needs and were working with her.

Our housing team works hard to support residents who are at risk of homelessness and helps them secure long-term accommodation.

While we cant go into details about individual cases, we provide expert advice and support to every individual and family who needs help with finding sustainable accommodation.

When someone is registered with the council as needing homeless support, we assign them a case worker to work with them closely to ensure they get all the care and support they need.

We understand the importance of pets to households at risk of homelessness and wherever possible we try to help secure accommodation that allows pets at the property.

This can, however, make securing accommodation more difficult.

 If you can help Ms Vlasova, email her at anfisaamira@gmail.com
THIS production of Beauty and the Beast at the Kenton Theatre was laughter-filled, lively and entertaining.

The joy on stage shared by the children was infectious to the audience.

It was a performance that showcased a perfect blend of talent, enthusiasm and camaraderie among the cast members.

Each character, from the enchanting Belle and the fearsome Beast to the flamboyant Gaston, was portrayed with charisma and flair, captivating the audience with every scene.

The vibrant dances, expertly choreographed by Kate Campbell, added a delightful French twist to the musical numbers, paying homage to the storys traditional fairy tale roots. The incorporation of songs from Moulin Rouge and ABBAs Voulez-Vous injected an extra layer of energy into the performance, making it a musical extravaganza that transcended the boundaries of time and tradition.

The audience was treated to a visual feast of lively choreography, transporting them to the enchanting world of Beauty and the Beast.

The traditional characters were blended with a modern take on Emily in Paris from the hit Netflix show and a female mayor taking charge.

Only in the world of pantomime would these interactions of terrific characters merge. All the roles were acted brilliantly with humour and conviction.

The chorus lines, featuring the dynamic ensembles of roses and leaf men, Les Baguettes and Les Can Cans dominated the stage with exuberant passion for singing, dancing and acting.

This vibrant atmosphere resonated with the joyous spirit of pantomime.

The resilience and dedication of the cast were particularly evident when Woody Hurst, a previous cast member, stepped in as Dame Madame Coco on short notice due to the illness of another performer.

Learning the lines within a mere two hours before the performance is a testament to the unwavering commitment to the show must go on ethos that the theatre company embraces.

Director and writer Muffin Hursts reflection on whether this was the companys best performance yet sparked curiosity among members of the audience.

They were already labelling it a stand-out show, the anticipation for future productions palpable.

Muffins mention of the potential to up the stakes next year hinted at an exciting trajectory for the company, which should encourage those who missed this years spectacle to mark their calendars for the next pantomime in January 2025.

Lexie Gutteridge
Today, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra released the following statement on the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision.

No American who believes in freedom should accept that women today have fewer rights to choose their health care than their mothers had 51 years ago.

Abortion is health care. Contraception is health care. And health care decisions should be made by a patient with her doctor, not by politicians. No American who believes in freedom should accept anything less. The Biden-Harris Administration is steadfast in the fight for reproductive freedom for all.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday presided over the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Ayodhya: Ram Mandir decorated with flowers as part of preparations for its consecration ceremony, in Ayodhya (PTI)(PTI)

Ahead of the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony, it is estimated that over $10 billion ( 85,000 crore approx.) were spent to revamp and redevelop the city of Ayodhya, with more funding planned, reported PTI.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

With nearly $200 billion in revenue, tourism contributes about 7% of India's economy, which is below most large emerging and developed economies by up to 5 percentage points. A new report suggests that this massive revamping of Ayodhya can lead to over 25,000 crore tax revenue generation by the Uttar Pradesh government.

According to brokerage firm Jefferies, the total makeover of Ayodhya, which includes new airport, revamped railway station, township, improved road connectivity etc, has a cost of around 85,000 crore, reported PTI.

The report by Jefferies highlighted that this massive Ayodhya makeover can attract over 50 million tourists to the city in a year. Golden Temple in Amritsar gets an estimated 30-35 million footfalls a year while the Tirupati temple sees 25-30 million visits. Globally, Vatican city gets around 9 million tourists every year and Mecca in Saudi Arabia around 20 million, the report says.

Uttar Pradesh may gain  4 lakh crore through Ram Mandir

In an effort to aid tourism in Ayodhya, phase 1 of the airport in the city is now operational, with the operational strength of 1 million passengers. This will soon by expanded to 6 million by 2025. Further, Railway has also doubled its capacity to 60,000 passengers per day.

At present Ayodhya has around 17 hotels with 590 rooms. 73 new hotels are in the pipeline, of which 40 are already under construction. While Indian Hotels, Marriott and Wyndham have already signed deals for hotels, ITC is exploring opportunities in Ayodhya. Oyo plans to add 1,000 hotel rooms in Ayodhya.

Keeping in mind the tourism projections made by multiple agencies for Ayodhya and Uttar Pradesh in the coming years, it is likely that total expenditure by tourists in Uttar Pradesh could surpass the 4 lakh crore mark by the end of the year, reported Economic Times quoting an SBI report.

It is expected that Ayodhya's Ram Mandir can soon transform into a global tourism spot, similar to Mecca and Vatican, in the coming years, massively contributing to the tax revenue generated by Uttar Pradesh.

(With inputs from PTI, Reuters)
The Indian stock market has remained volatile for major IT and tech shares over the last few weeks, but four stocks have seen a significant spike, mainly due to their link to the consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir on January 22. Ayodhya Ram Mandir opening ceremony took place on January 22. (PTI)(PTI)

The Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration ceremony saw the 'pran prathishtha' of the idol of Ram Lalla in newly constructed temple, with over 7,000 invitees attending the event, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

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The much-awaited consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya was not only a grand event for the nation, and four companies with a strong recent link to the business and tourism in the city have benefitted greatly.

Over the last three months, four companies - Allied Digital, Thomas Cook, InterGlobe Aviation and Easy Trip Planners - have seen a spike in share prices by a minimum of 22 percent, which is more than prominent small and mid-cap firms.

Allied Digital Services

From October 2023 to January 2024, Allied Digital Services shares have seen a spike of over 41 percent on the stock market. The shares started to rally after the company announced that it has won the contract for the Ayodhya Smart City Project, just months ahead of the Ram Mandir ceremony.

Thomas Cook India

Thomas Cook India saw a major spike in share prices due after it announced budget travel packages to Ayodhya ahead of the consecration ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir. The travel company's share prices spiked 35 percent since October, touching its lifetime high in January.

Easy Trip Planners

Easy Trip Planners is another travel company which was early in the race to announce travel packages for Ayodhya ahead of the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Since October 2023, the share prices of Easy Trip have rallied over 20 percent.

InterGlobe Aviation

InterGlobe Aviation saw its stock rally after it raised its holdings in IndiGo Airlines to 1.90 percent in December 2023. IndiGo announced its commercial flight operations to Ayodhya from Delhi and Ahmedabad amid the travel frenzy to the city. Since then, InterGlobe stocks have seen a spike of over 27 percent.
Bank holidays: All public sector banks and major private banks will remain closed in most parts of the country on account of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir consecration (pran prathistha) ceremony on Monday. Ram Temple is lit up on Sunday ahead of the consecration ceremony. (PTI)(HT_PRINT)

The ministry of finance issued an order for all its banks to remain closed on Monday. As per the directive on January 18, public sector banks and regional rural banks will observe a half-day off on the occasion of the Ram temple consecration ceremony.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Follow- Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration LIVE updates

The central government has also declared a half-day working for all its employees on Monday, applicable to central government offices, institutions, and industrial establishments during the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony.

The Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) has released an order allowing employees to participate in the 'Pran Pathishtha' celebrations of the Ram temple. The DOPT order said that all central government offices, institutions, and industrial establishments throughout India will be closed for half a day until 2:30 pm on January 22.

ALSO READ- BJP moves Supreme Court against Tamil Nadu on banning 'pran pratishtha' ceremony telecast

Are private banks open?

Major private sector banks, including HDFC Bank and Axis Bank, will also remain closed in Uttar Pradesh, with HDFC Bank observing a full-day closure in UP and Uttarakhand.

Bank holidays in India

Banks in India typically close on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, along with national, public, and regional holidays varying from state to state.

Next bank holidays in January

Looking ahead to next week, banks will remain closed for more than three days due to Republic Day on January 26, the Fourth Saturday on January 27, and January 28 (Sunday). This aligns with the regular practice of bank closures on the second and fourth Saturdays, as well as national and public holidays.
Zomato on Monday responded to a customer's complaint on X regarding the unavailability of chicken for food delivery, saying that they have disabled delivery of non-veg items in certain states in accordance with government instructions. This decision from Zomato aligns with Uttar Pradesh's move to ban the sale of meat and fish on Monday.(Reuters Photo)

The user tagged the food-delivery app and humorously mentioned, Zomato is not delivering chicken in bhopal today lmao. Speculating about the reason, the user added, "tbh it could be because of supply of meat not being available today v/s anything decision by zomato.

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Zomato replied, clarifying,Hi, we have disabled delivery of non-veg items in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan as per govt. notice. Hope this clarification helps!

This decision aligns with Uttar Pradesh's, along with a few other states', move to ban the sale of meat and fish on Monday, coinciding with the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

In a grand ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Monday, with several celebrities and business leaders attending the event.

Meat ban in lieu of Ram Temple's pran prathishtha

In light of the Ram Temple ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday, certain states have implemented restrictions on the sale of meat. Several states, including Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam, have imposed a ban on meat sales as a mark of respect for the sacred event.

Various state governments have enacted the prohibition on meat sales to honour the sanctity of the occasion.

Chhattisgarh is taking a decisive stance by prohibiting meat sales throughout the state on Monday. The Urban Administration and Development Department issued a directive mandating the closure of slaughterhouses and meat-selling shops as part of the preparations for the Ram Temple consecration.

The Uttar Pradesh government announced a ban on the sale of meat and fish in the state on Monday, the Ram temple's inauguration.

In Delhi, all slaughterhouses, meat, and fish-selling shops have been instructed to remain closed for the day, respecting the sentiments of the people during the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah inaugurated a Ram Temple in Bengalurus Mahadevapura area on the same day when the consecration (Pran Pratistha) of Ram Lalla Idol happened in Ayodhya. Along with Ram temple, a 33-foot-long Hanuman idol was also unveiled by the chief minister. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah inaugurates Ram Temple at Bengaluru

Siddaramaiah said, The Sitarama Lakshmana Temple built by the Hirandahalli Srirama Temple Trust will be an important temple in Bengaluru. The 33-foot-high monolithic Anjaneya Swamy idol was also inaugurated and later I participated in the Maha Kumbhabhishekam event.

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Also Read - Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE updates: PM Modi speaks on what next

The CM also said that he is not involved in any politics when it comes to God and religion. He said, Lord Ram belongs to everyone, and it is sad that a particular party is claiming credit for Hinduism in this country. In my life, I never brought religion into politics, and I am working in a party that believes in secularism.

On Monday, Siddaramaiah clarified that the government will not declare a holiday today. I am also inaugurating a temple and I think there is no need to any holiday, he added. The BJP launched a sharp attack on the state government for not declaring a holiday and labelled Siddaramaiah-led government as an anti-Hindu government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi consecrated the new Idol at the Ayodhya temple on Monday and said that Ram Lalla would no more stay in a tent. Addressing people after the pran pratishtha ceremony at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, Modi said, "Our Ram has arrived. Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple."
As Ayodhya is gearing up for the consecration (Pran Pratistha) of Ram Lalla Idol, security is beefed up at Karnatakas Udupi, Mangaluru and Dakshina Kannada regions. Karnataka police department has deployed extra police force in communally sensitive areas to avoid possible clashes between groups. Security beefed up at Coastal Karnataka ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration (Pic for representation)

Also Read - Special poojas and live screenings: Bengaluru decked up for Pran-Pratistha event in Ayodhya

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According to a report in Deccan Herald, three DCPs, six ACPs, 11 police inspectors and 781 police personnel have been deployed at various regions of coastal Karnataka. The patrolling vehicles will continuously monitor all sensitive areas and miscreants are warned of strict actions if they raise any issues.

Mangaluru police also said that no permission will be given to any group to conduct a rally in the city. The banners and hoardings installed across Mangaluru will be monitored to ensure they do not instigate any violence or display communally insensitive statements.

The bars and wine shops will be shut across Udupi and Dakshina Kannada regions till midnight of Monday. Many temples in the region have already started Pooja ceremonies and live streaming will also be done for people.

However, government offices, schools, and colleges will function as usual as the state government has not declared any holiday today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to lead the Pran-Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla's idol in the temples sanctorum. The final leg of the consecration ceremony will start at 12.20pm today and end by around 1pm. The 51-inch stone idol by renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj of Karnataka has been enthroned at the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday defended the state government's stand of not declaring a holiday on the occasion of the consecration of the Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya. We don't need lectures from others about religion and devotion: Karnataka DCM

Speaking to reporters at his residence, he said, "We have been practising our traditions and rituals for a long time. We don't need to learn from others about religion and devotion."

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Also Read - CM Siddaramaiah asks Central govt to amend Constitution for internal reservation for SCs

He was replying to a question on the BJP leaders' call to declare a holiday on Monday for the consecration of the Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Hitting out at the BJP for politicising the temple issue, Shivakumar said, "We don't use religion for publicity. We believe that prayers yield results and hence we have ordered special pooja at all the temples under the Muzrai department even before anyone asked for it."

He also said the Congress does not need lectures from others on this issue.

"There is Rama in Siddaramaiah's name and Shiva in my name. We know our rituals and traditions. There should be dharma in politics but not politics in dharma," Shivakumar said.

Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Tumakuru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said there would be no holiday on Monday.
From langars (community kitchens) to devotional programmes in temples, residents of Bathinda and adjoining districts of south Punjab celebrated the Ram Temple consecration ceremony with fervour on Monday. Devotees in Chandigarh watching the live-streaming of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

Temple managements and community organisations arranged live-streaming of the event from Ayodhya.

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Markets in various towns in the region were illuminated since Sunday to mark the occasion.

Volunteers of social organisations were seen distributing hot milk with snacks across Bathinda. Market associations also held community kitchens.

In Ferozepur, private schools remained closed. Temples were tastefully decorated and prayers were held on the occasion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal at a langar organised by former minister Anil Joshi in Amritsar on Monday. (Sameer Sehgal/HT)

SAD, Congress leaders join Ram Temple celebrations in Amritsar

Amritsar wore a festive look with temples, including Durgiana Mandir, markets and houses illuminated to mark the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Monday.

Religious processions were taken out and havans were organised after which food was distributed at langars.The event was streamed live on big screens.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal partook of langar at a function organised by former minister Anil Joshi outside Ram Bagh.

People from all walks took part in the celebrations.

Rising above political differences, Congress Khadoor Sahib MP Jasbir Singh Dimpa distributed sweets to people in the rural areas.

Festivities were also witnessed in the border areas, where religious processions were taken out.

Followers in Chandigarh celebrating the consecration ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

Diyas light up festivities in Ludhiana

Devotees across Ludhiana took part in the Ram Temple celebrations by watching the live telecast of the ceremony in Ayodhya on big screens put up outside temples, including the Shri Durga Mata Mandir near Jagraon Bridge and Sidh Peeth Dandi Swami on Rajpura road.

Devotees were seen waving flags, chanting Jai Shree Ram, Jai Siya Ram and Jai Hanuman besides singing bhajans as the event unfolded.

More than 1,000 diyas (earthern lamps) were lit by devotees in various temples in the city and the langar was prepared by temple committees.
The administrative council has approved the absorption of 145 employees of Centaur Hotel effecting from last year. Lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha (PTI file)

The employees have been fighting for their absorption in other departments from several years.

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The administrative council, which met here under the chairmanship of lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha, approved absorption of 145 permanent employees of the Centaur Lake View Hotel, Srinagar, in Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation Ltd (JKCCC) and Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, Srinagar (JKTDC).

This is in pursuance to the process of outsourcing of the assets of Tourism Department. Administrative Council in its decision dated March 1, 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 matter was examined by a committee constituted under the administrative mechanism for resolution of disputes by the Union department of legal affairs and recommended by the committee and also as per the concurrence of the finance department, the J&K government spokesman said.
The Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya prompted special prayers in many temples of Kashmir on Monday. Devotees arrive to offer prayers at the Shankaracharya Temple on the occasion of Ayodhya Ram Mandir 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, in Srinagar on Monday. (PTI)

Scores of people, including tourists, locals from Hindu community and security personnel, visited various temples in capital Srinagar and other parts of the valley.

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A large number of people visited Shankaracharya Temple on the Zabarwan Hills overlooking Boulevard Road on Dal Lake. A special prayer was held at the temple to mark the consecration ceremony.

A government official said celebrations on the occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Mandir were held at Shankaracharya Temple in Srinagar.

The day will be a memorable one for us as the temple is being constructed after 500 years. This is a proud moment for us, said Deepali Shiv Malhotra, a tourist from Haryana.

Prayers were held at Sharika Devi Temple adjoining Maqdoom Sahib Shrine in the old city. Local pandit community and security personnel held the prayers at the temple on the occasion. The Hindu community will celebrate Deepawali at the temple in the evening to mark a return of Ram Lalla to his birth place in Ayodhya, said Ranjeet Gurkha, president of the Sharika Devi Shrine Trust.

Similarly, prayers were also held at Srinagars Hanuman Temple, all decked up, on the banks of Jhelum river in Amirakadal area of the city here.

The official said a special pooja-cum-celebration was also held at the famous Surya Temple (Martand Sun Temple) at Mattan in Anantnag district of south Kashmir.

We are unable to express our joy on the occasion of the establishment of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. We are so happy that we want to congratulate everybody on the occasion Martand Temple in Kashmir is an example of unity and brotherhood, said Rudranath Maharaj in south Kashmir. There are plans to lit lamps across the temples in Kashmir to mark the occasion.
The Delhi government has ordered that all government and government-aided schools in the Capital will be closed during their general and morning shifts on Monday in the wake of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. However, evening shift schools will remain open from 2.30pm till 5.30pm. Representational Image

Also Read: AAP to mark Ayodhya event by yatras, prayers in Delhi

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Though no directions were separately issued for private schools, some institutions decided to remain closed on Monday.

In an order on Sunday director of education Bhupesh Chaudhary said, In accordance with the memorandum issued by the services department declaring half-day closure (up to 2.30pm) of all Delhi government establishments on January 22 to enable employees to participate in celebrations of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha, all government and government-aided schools of Delhi running in general and morning shifts will remain closed.

Also Read: Ram Temple set for a grand opening today

Satya Prakash, head of the All India Parents Association in Delhi, said there is confusion among parents and students about whether the schools will work or not, saying that the order was half-baked.

Jyoti Arora, principal of Mount Abu Public School, said, We will be remained closed on Monday keeping in mind the celebrations in Ayodhya.




"Peru thanks the member countries of the Andean Community: Bolivia, Colombia and Ecuador, as well as its General Secretariat, for a successful working day to improve the security of our citizens," the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote on social media.





The government agency also highlighted that the Andean Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, together with authorities in charge of internal, approved a Resolute Action Plan.





Precisely, the foreign affairs and security ministers of the four member countries of the Andean Community (CAN) approved on Sunday in Lima a series of joint and urgent actions against transnational organized crime, which includes a decisive action plan that prioritizes different areas of action on the matter.





After the ministerial meeting, CAN Secretary-General Gonzalo Gutierrez read the declaration adopted by the representatives of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.





The decision to adopt the aforementioned plan, as well as to create a high-level group made up of officials designated by ministers of foreign affairs and internal security from CAN member countries, was included in said declaration.





The implementation of the plan will lead to the creation of sectoral security strategies by State ministers or internal security authorities from the member countries.





(END) JCR/RMB

The Government of Peru thanked Andean Community (CAN) State ministers, who met in Lima to discuss various issues aimed at improving security and combating transnational organized crime.Published: 1/22/2024
Five men were killed after the jeep in which they were travelling in overturned on Sunday nigh in Bekriya police station circle limits of Rajasthans Udaipur district, police said. Police said the jeep rammed into the road divider and overturned. (Representative Image)

The incident occurred on Gogunda -Pindwara highway 27 near Okliya Tunnel.

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Those died were identified as Manoj, Puna, Nathu and Bheema while one of them is yet to identified. All of them were friends and were returning to their village Devla from Gogunda after shopping. They were said to be drunk and the jeep was moving fast.

It was when the jeep passed through the Okhliya Tunnel that its driver lost control on it and the vehicle rammed into the road divider and overturned.

The impact of the mishap was such that three of the five victims died on the spot while two others succumbed to their injuries on the way to the hospital.

All the victims got stuck inside the jeep and were pulled out by the police after hours of efforts.

The Station House Officer (SHO), Bekriya police station, Prabhu Singh Chundawat, said that those travelling in the ill fated jeep were the residents of Devla village and all of the them were drunk.

District collector Arvind Poswal and Superintendent of police (SP), Udaipur, Bhuwan Bhushan Yadav, went to the scene to take stock of the situation, where they also met the family members of the deceased victims.

The postmortem of the bodies was conducted and the bodies were handed over to their relatives on Monday, said the SHO.
The skies above Ayodhya and Lucknow were abuzz with the arrival of around 100 chartered flights on Saturday and Sunday, carrying scores of VVIPs to witness and partake in the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram in the Ayodhya temple. Ayodhya and Lucknow were abuzz carrying scores of VVIPs to witness and partake in the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram in the Ayodhya temple. (Representational Image)(AP)

Director of Maharishi Valmiki Airport, Ayodhya, Vinod Kumar, said: There was extraordinary coordination between air traffic control and other concerned departments, ground staff ensuring flawless execution of each flights arrival and departure. Despite the surge in air traffic, meticulous planning left no room for anything extraordinary.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Also Read | PM Modi lights 'Ram Jyoti' after Ayodhya Ram Temple 'pran pratishtha' ceremony

Amid the star-studded arrivals, the airport of Ayodhya became hubs of activity, managing the influx of VVIPs with precision and professionalism. The strategic parking of flights in various nearby locations facilitated smooth operations, reflecting seamless coordination among the aviation and security teams. The efficiency extended to parking arrangements, with flights directed to Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, Kushinagar and Lucknow, he added.

Kumar further stated: As the airport continues to witness a steady stream of chartered flights, so remains in the spotlight, with the events unfolding carrying a weight of cultural, political, and historical significance. The collective efforts of aviation authorities, security forces, and airport staff contribute to the successful execution of this grand spectacle, leaving an indelible mark on the skies and in the hearts of those who bear witness to this extraordinary moment in time.

Also Read | Lord Ram Lalla's jewellery: Know significance of mukut, kaustubha mani, vijayamala

Commenting on the extraordinary traffic on Saturday and Sunday, Kumar said: Every movement of the plane was meticulously planned; nothing went wrong. We are still very busy welcoming and arranging the departure of VVIPs.

However, some chartered flights are expected to depart on Tuesday, possibly carrying back the VVIPs who graced the occasion. An official from Ayodhya airport, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said: The staff was happy to welcome stars such as Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Rajnikant, Ram Charan, Chiranjeevi, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Anupam Kher, Sonu Nigam, Anuradha Paudwal, Shankar Mahadevan, Madhuri Dixit Nene, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif, Ayushmann Khurrana, Kangana Ranawat, etc. No one can expect a better opening month of any airport with such VVIP flights.

Meanwhile, the Lucknow airport spokesperson highlighted the continuous influx of VVIPs, with more than 12 chartered flights arriving on Monday morning and eight chartered flights landing the day before. This influx of high-profile individuals showcases the significance of the events in Ayodhya.

Security measures were paramount, given the high-profile nature of the visitors. Heavy deployment of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Rapid Action Force was ensured in and around Lucknow and Ayodhya airports. The heightened security measures also extended to restrictions on visitor passes, with access denied until January 27, underscoring the sensitivity and importance of the ongoing events.
LUCKNOW The consecration ceremony in Ayodhya has led to surge in demand for Ram-themed merchandise, buoying local markets. The past fortnight has seen unprecedented sale of silver coins/utensils featuring Ram Darbar and Ram Lalla, saffron flags, decoration items, lights, diyas, Ramnami kurtas, gamchhas, saffron shirts, sweaters and other items, said traders. Devotees celebrate on the occasion of Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony being held in Ayodhya, in Lucknow on Monday (ANI Photo)

Key markets in Lucknow, including Hazratganj, Aminabad, Nishatganj, Mahanagar and Jankipuram have transformed into thematic merchandise hubs. Flags, banners, headbands, posters, festoons, stickers, badges, statuettes, temple models, along with various items are available at prices ranging from 20 to 500.

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In Narhi and Bhootnath markets, traders bodies have even encouraged their members to offer discounts on items related to the consecration ceremony.

Sunil Kumar, 58, a trader at Latouche Road, shared that he never encountered such a huge demand for banners, flags, sarees, T-shirts and kurtas adorned with images of Ram and Ram Darbar. Even saffron apparel in the form of shirts, T-shirts and kurtas are attracting customers of all ages, he said.

There was a huge demand-supply gap in flowers availability on Monday and traders struggled to meet the high demand. Mushir Khan of the flower market said, Flower traders were willing to pay any price to secure flowers due to the overwhelming demand.

Amarnath Mishra, district president of Akhil Bharatiya Udyog Vyapar Mandal, said: There is an unprecented surge in demand for utensils used in religious activities. Traders have never experienced this before.

Ram-themed merchandise including Ramnami flags, cutouts of Lord Ram, badges, scarves with the deitys image, and models of the Ram temple are among the popular items. Small flags with Lord Rams image for vehicles and bikes are particularly sought after, he added.

Gold and silver coins featuring Ram Darbar are also in demand, with the latter witnessing higher sales, said Vinod Maheshwari, general secretary of Chowk Sarrafa Traders Association.

Items like keychains, silver utensils and miniature Ram Darbar are also in demand, he said.

Traders are optimistic that business will continue to flourish, driven by the excitement surrounding the consecration and the temple in Ayodhya.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the final leg of rituals in the ongoing Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at the sanctum-sanctorum of the newly constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Monday by symbolically opening the eyes of the deity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers before the Ram Lalla idol during the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday. (PT)

This marked the end of the week-long consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla which began on January 16.

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Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, governor Anandibeniben Patel and chairman of the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust Mahant Nritya Gopal Das were also present with the PM at the temples sanctum-sanctorum during the rituals.

Head priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit presided over the rituals and was assisted by 121 junior priests.

As the rituals were being performed, choppers of the Indian Army showered flowers on the Ram Mandir.

The extraordinary moment of the consecration of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Dham is going to leave everyone emotional. It is my great fortune to be a part of this divine programme. Jai Siya Ram!, Modi said on X.

Before worshipping Ram Lalla, PM Modi also performed Vedic rituals for worshipping the old idol of Ram Lalla that was shifted from the makeshift temple to the Ram Mandir on Sunday night.
AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the last Vedic rituals on Monday in the ongoing seven-day Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla by symbolically opening the eyes of the idol with a golden stick and ended the rites with aarti and shashtang pranam (prostration) to the deity, prompting celebrations across India and in many parts of the world by the Hindu diaspora. A glimpse of the Ram Lalla idol at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Monday. (ANI)

Carrying a silver chattra (umbrella) for the deity, Modi climbed a flight of 32 steps to enter the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, which was decorated with yellow and saffron marigold flowers, around 12.10pm as saints sitting among the special invitees raised the slogan Jai Shri Ram.

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Dressed in a cream kurta teamed up with a cream dhoti and patka, he took sankalp for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony and later moved to the sanctum sanctorum for the rituals.

Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel, chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat were present when the Prime Minister reached sanctum sanctorum. Bhagwat was seated next to Modi during the ceremony.

The Vedic rituals in the Ram temple sanctum sanctorum began with special puja of Ram Lalla Virajman (old idol of Ram Lalla) that was being worshipped at the makeshift Ram temple till date.

This idol was shifted to the Ram Mandir on Sunday night by Acharya Satyendra Das, who used to perform puja at the makeshift temple. It was placed just in front of the new 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla.

As part of the rituals, holy water was offered to PM Modi. Head priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit presided over the rituals assisted by 121 junior priests. A junior priest recited Vedic mantras and helped PM Modi complete the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla.

According to the Trust, after completion of all rituals, PM Modi symbolically opened the eyes of Ram Lalla with a golden stick. On behalf of the PM, this ceremony was performed by priests present there.

After the rituals, PM performed aarti of the deity amidst chanting of mantras by priests. Shankaracharya Vasudevanand Saraswati handed over a golden ring to the Prime Minister. PM Modi also sought blessings from Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, chairman of the Trust, by touching his feet.

Before emerging from the temples sanctum sanctorum, PM Modi bowed before the deity and offered shashtang pranam.

Govind Dev Giri, treasurer of the Trust, performed rituals related to felicitation of the PM after the ceremony.

This marked the end of the week-long consecration of Ram Lalla which began on January 16. As the rituals were being performed at the temples sanctum-sanctorum, choppers of the Indian Army showered flowers on the temple while saints and others present in the crowd shouted Jai Shri Ram. After completing rituals, PM Modi took a round of the temple. As the PM came out of the temple, the crowd greeted him with slogans of Jai Shri Ram.

PM BREAKS FAST

Before addressing a gathering of 8000 people at the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, treasurer of the Trust Govind Dev Giri offered PM Modi two spoons of curd to break his 11-day fast. Modi had kept the fast for participation in the consecration ceremony.

MODI VISITS KUBER TILA

From Ram Mandir, PM Modi went to Kuber Tila, present in the temple complex, and worshipped Lord Shiva there. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Kuber, who is also known as god of wealth, had established a temple of Lord Shiva here. Later, this place came to be known as Kuber Tila.

RAM LALLAS IDOL

The 51-inch tall idol of Ram Lalla was decorated with a golden crown and gold ornaments, and carried a golden bow and arrow. However, the Trust has not shared details of the gold ornaments.

Renowned sculptor Arun Yogiraj of Mysore has carved Ram Lallas idol from the black stone of Karnataka.

The idol is based on the sketch of renowned Mumbai-based artist Vasudeo Kamath. He had presented pencil sketches of Ram Lalla to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

Born in Karkala, a nondescript town in Karnataka, Kamath grew up in Mumbai. His 28 paintings that form his Ramayan series are globally acclaimed.

Kamath is known for his paintings based on mythology and historical subjects. He also practises the art of creating portraits from actual sittings.

Yogiraj had sculpted the idol in around six months time at Ram Katha Kunj in Ayodhya.
The inauguration of a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya may have marked the end of the long-drawn struggle, it will still continue to play big in the political arena at least for the next few months as the nation gears for the Lok Sabha polls. A grand Ram Temple was inaugurated in Ayodhya on January 22. (HT photo)

The grand scale of momentum that has been planned by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) around the Ram temple issue besides the PMs rally blitzkrieg set to start from Bulandshahr in western UP from January 25 hardly leaves any doubt that the ruling party wants to maintain the tempo. The BJP had launched a series of activities across Uttar Pradesh in run-up to the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony of Ram Lalla to mobilise the party cadre.

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These included distribution of Pujit Akshat (uncooked rice offered to the Lord) to households, cleanliness drive in temples, chaupals in villages, distribution of booklets detailing the history of Ram temple movement, holding bhajan-kirtan and community feasts (bhandara) in all districts. Senior BJP leaders, ministers, MPs and MLAs joined the drive with the party cadre to reach the people across Uttar Pradesh.

Along with PM Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, top leaders of Vishva Hindu Parishad and other affiliates of the saffron brigade were present in Ayodhya during the consecration ceremony to send a clear message to the opposition that its campaign has been set rolling from the precincts of the Ram temple.

The BJP leaders called upon the people to light Ram Jyoti in their houses to welcome Lord Ram. Riding on the Ram temple movement, the BJP had formed government in Uttar Pradesh in 1991 and it came to power at the Centre in 1998 and 1999 Lok Sabha elections. The BJP contested the 2014 Lok Sabha election on development and corruption planks to defeat the Congress.

Also read: PM Modi lights 'Ram Jyoti' after Ayodhya Ram Temple 'pran pratishtha' ceremony

The construction of Ram temple will strengthen its Hindutava agenda in the upcoming LS election. To maintain the momentum of the Ram temple, the BJP has planned holding Ram Dharshan Yatra that will pass through the entire country before reaching Ayodhya. The mega outreach campaign will see the party facilitating visits of up to two crore (20 million) pilgrims till March, a move aimed at ensuring that the temple inauguration issue resonates among the masses till the April-May when Lok Sabha polls are likely to be held.

The BJP has planned a series of rallies of PM Modi in Uttar Pradesh commencing from Bulandshahr on January 25 to take Ram temple campaign among the masses. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Ayodhya along with his cabinet ministers to have darshan of Ram Lalla on February 1.

The budget session commencing from February 2 will be Ayodhya oriented as the state government has planned to announce launch of new projects for the temple town. The CM had announced that Ayodhya will have 10 times more tourists and pilgrims than those currently visiting the holy city after the inauguration of the Ram temple.

The consecration ceremony will pave way for the establishment of Ram Rajya. Large number of devotees will visit Ayodhya to seek blessings of Lord Ram. The pilgrims visit to holy city will be comfortable. They will move on the parikarma marg with ease. They will not be harassed as under the previous government. The party workers should facilitate the visit of the pilgrims, he had said.

Deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said, The BJP has set the target of winning all 80 LS seats in Uttar Pradesh. While voting, people will not forget the firing on karsewaks by the Samajwadi Party government and the BJPs efforts to shift Ram Lalla from a tent to a grand temple.

The BJP government has launched a series of welfare schemes and without discrimination, people from all castes and communities are getting the benefit of these schemes. They will definitely support the BJP in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, he added.

Also read: Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent anymore: PM Modi

Realising the potential of the Ram temple in the Lok Sabha election, the Samajwadi Party (SP), which had launched an aggressive campaign against the BJP over the temple issue, too amended its strategy. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav announced that after the consecration ceremony he will visit Ayodhya to seek blessings of Lord Ram.

In a post on social media platform X on Sunday, Yadav shared a video of a Shiva temple constructed in his home district Etawah on the lines of Kedarnath temple. A day before the inauguration of Ram temple, Yadav wished to send a message to the supporters that he is not against temple.

In a series of tweets before the consecration ceremony on Monday, Yadav in a post said, Everyone will follow the path of Ramrajya which was envisioned by Maryada Purushottam ji, where the poor do not remain sad, the youth are happy, move ahead and everyone is happy. Siyaram resides in that pure heart. One who respects customs, ethics and decorum.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati welcomed the construction of Ram temple at Ayodhya. BSP is a secular party that respects all religions and communities. My party is not against the consecration ceremony. We will also welcome the construction of the mosque on the land allotted by the court, she said.

A delegation of the UP Congress Committee visited Ayodhya on January 15 despite Congress parliamentary party chairperson, Sonia Gandhi; Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury turning down the invitation for the consecration ceremony.

The Congress leaders took a dip in the Saryu and had darshan of Ram Lalla. They said the BJP was trying to project them as anti-temple, whereas the Congress was against use of the Ram temple for political gains.

SK Dwivedi, former head, political science department, Lucknow University, said, The BJP is working on three planksHindutva, Nationalism and Welfarismto retain power at the Centre. After the construction of Ram temple, the party will project itself as the flagbearer of Hindutva. The welfarismdistribution of free ration, Kisan Nidhi, houses, tap connections, toilets, free cooking gas and power connectionshas given the BJP an edge over the opposition. The BJP will definitely cash in on the Ram temple in the Lok Sabha election.

Leaders of the opposition parties should understand that secularism does not mean that religion cannot be promoted. If the opposition leaders wished to counter the BJPs Ram temple plank, they should visit the temple in strength to get rid of the anti-temple tag. The opposition will go for new election narrative by raising public issues, he added.
Leaders and representatives of ten political parties in Manipur met chief minister N Biren Singh and urged him to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister on the ongoing Manipur issue. CM Singh said constructive discussions were held, reflecting a united commitment to navigate challenges. (Manipur CM N Biren Singh)

State units of the ten political parties namely Congress, Janata Dal(U), CPI, CPI (M), All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), All India Forward Bloc, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena (UBT) and Revolutionary Socialist Party submitted a memorandum to the chief minister on Sunday evening.

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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, CM Biren Singh posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Also Read: CBI files chargesheet against five in Manipur arms loot case

After submitting the memorandum, former CM and Congress Legislature Party leader O Ibobi said, The ten political parties have urged the Chief Minister to seek an appointment to meet the Prime Minister and urged him to end the Manipur crisis.

In a democratic set up, there should be a dialogue. There should be a solution if there is a problem, Ibobi said.

Meanwhile, the ten political parties in their memorandum to the CM said it will not be possible to find solutions to the problem without the active involvement of the central government considering the complexities of the conflict.

It is the Government of India, who only can bring the parties in the conflict to the negotiating table and find a solution acceptable to all, it added.

We, the representatives of the ten political parties, strongly urge upon you, being the chief minister of Manipur, to arrange a meeting with the Prime Minister of India which we are willing to participate in to share our thoughts and suggestions. We are confident that you will not fail in taking all pains to lead us in the overall interest of the state and its people at this hour of crisis, the memorandum added.

Ethnic clashes between the Kukis and Meiteis first erupted on May 3 during a protest against a court-ordered tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting Scheduled Tribe status to the latter.

The violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state borders. More than 200 people have been killed in the violence.
PATNA: The Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will enter Bihars Kishanganj district from Siliguri on January 29 and cover four districts in three days, a senior Bihar Congress leader said on Monday. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar with deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav have been invited to the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra rally in Purnia on January 30. (HT File Photo/Santosh Kumar)

Congress lawmaker Prem Chandra Mishra said Gandhi will address a massive rally in Purnia on January 30 and has invited leaders of Bihars ruling alliance to join him at the event.

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Mishra said chief minister Nitish Kumar has conveyed that either he or a senior Janata Dal (United) party leader would join the rally. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and deputy chief minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, however, may not be able to join the rally because it clashes with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued to them, Mishra, a member of the legislative council, said.

ED has summoned Lalu Prasad and Tejashwi to its Patna office to appear for questioning at its Patna office in connection with the alleged railways land-for-jobs money laundering case on January 29 and 30. The case, first lodged by the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation), relates to allegations that during his stint as railway minister from 2004-09, Lalu Yadav gave away railway jobs in lieu of plots of land either gifted for sold at throwaway prices by the beneficiaries to his family members.

Mishra claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership was rattled by the public response to the yatra and was creating hurdles for the yatra in Assam where Gandhi was not allowed to visit the birthplace of Vaishnava saint Srimanta Sankaradev in Assam.

Whenever the Yatra passes through a BJP-ruled state, hurdles are put in its way. We are going to stage a march in Patna, wearing black badges, to register our protest, Mishra added.
Established by Queen Victoria in 1900 as Great Britains first civic university and ranked among the top 100 universities in the world, the University of Birmingham is offering scholarships worth more than 1 million to Indian students for the 2024-2025 academic year. The scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate courses are categorised into merit-based and automatic awards for specific academic fields including Business, Computer Science, Arts & Law, Environmental & Physical Sciences, Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences. Study abroad Scholarship for UK in 2024: University of Birminghams 1 million scholarships for Indian students open now (Representative Image)

Among the many scholarships that the university announced, there are 20 awards of Outstanding achievement scholarships for undergraduate students of 4,000 each, 15 awards of India Chancellor Scholarship for postgraduate students of 2,000 each and unlimited automatic scholarships of 2,000 each under the Global Masters Scholarships scheme.

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Renowned for its research excellence, the Universitys researchers have received 10 Nobel Prizes. From pioneering organ transplants, discovering gravitational waves and furthering understanding of Shakespeare, to developing cures for cancer, advances in robotics and revealing the structure of DNA, the University of Birmingham has been at the forefront of some of the most ground-breaking discoveries of the last 100 years.

Here are 7 of the several scholarships available for Indian students who will enrol in the University of Birmingham for the 2024-25 academic year.

DeepMind Scholarship (3 x 52,565 each): The three School of Computer Science, University of Birminghams International scholarships available are valued at 52,565 for Postgraduate taught masters. The value of the scholarship is applied against:

 International tuition fees: 27,540

 A maintenance grant of 19,345 (to use for living costs), paid in instalments over the duration of the course

 Funding of up to 2,200 to attend an international conference in the field of AI and/or Machine Learning during the course as well as 1,700 towards purchase of essential equipment (suitable laptop etc.)

 1,870 to assist with relocation expenses.

Deadline: Not yet announced

UG Outstanding Achievement Scholarships (20 awards x 4,000 per award):

Award of 4,000 for select Indian students applying for entry to an undergraduate programme at the University starting September 2024.

Subject area: Arts and Law, Engineering and Physical Sciences, Life and Environmental Sciences, Nursing and Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Social Sciences. Students applying to MBChB Medicine and Surgery or BDS Dental Surgery are not eligible for this scholarship.

Deadline: April 30, 2024.

PG: India Chancellor Scholarship (15 awards x 2,000 per award): India Chancellors award of 15 scholarships of 4,000 for select Indian students applying for entry to a postgraduate programme at the University starting September 2024. MPhil, MRes, MMus and MLit as well as PGDip and PGCert programmes are not eligible.

Subject area: Arts and Law, Engineering and Physical Sciences, Life and Environmental Sciences, Medical and Dental Sciences, Social Sciences.

Deadline: May 31, 2024.

Global Masters Scholarships (Automatic, 2,000 scholarships per award): This award is available to all international students from a selection of countries who are seeking to study a taught Masters degree in the 2024-25 academic year.

Deadline: May 31, 2024.

GREAT Scholarships 2024 (10,000 award): In partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, this scholarship is being offered to student from India applying for postgraduate courses in the College of Arts and Law (excluding Law LLM and MSc).

Deadline: April 5, 2024

The GEES Global Futures Scholarship (India)(2,000 scholarships per award): Offers a 2,000 discount on tuition fees for Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate taught masters (PGT) programmes in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences. In the case of undergraduate students, this is for the first year of the programme only. This is an exceptional opportunity for students from India to study programmes in Geography, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Urban and Regional Planning, and Public and Environmental Health.

Deadline: For PGT programmes, early application is essential as there are only a limited number of scholarships available. For UG programmes, the fee reduction will be applied on enrolment.

Million Pound Scholarship Fund for Business School Masters Students: Birmingham Business School is offering a wide variety of scholarships for their new MSc students looking to join in 2024. The awards are available to both UK and International offer holders and range in value up to full tuition fee support.

Deadline: Applications received by January 15, 2024 - Decision by February 29, 2024.

Applications received by March 15, 2024 - Decision by April 30, 2024. Applications received by May 15, 2024 - Decision by June 28, 2024.
Actor Amitabh Bachchan took a trip down memory lane and shared an old picture featuring his colleagues and friends from the Hindi film industry. Taking to his blog on Tumblr, Amitabh posted the picture and also teased about the huge story behind it. (Also Read | Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan seen at Ayodhya Ram Temple) Amitabh Bachchan shared an old photo.

Amitabh shares pic with Rekha, Raj Kapoor

In the photo, Amitabh was seen waving, while holding a mic as he stood on stage. The other celebrities clapped as they stood around him. Apart from Amitabh, the picture also featured Vinod Khanna, music director Kalyan, Raj Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Mehmood, Rekha and Shammi Kapoor.

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Amitabh shares note about photo

In the throwback photo, Amitabh and Vinod Khanna were seen in white outfits. Rekha opted for a saree, while Shammi Kapoor was seen in a green kurta and white pyjama. The rest of the celebrities wore black outfits. Sharing the picture, Amitabh simply wrote, "And.. aaahhh .. there is a huge story behind this photograph .. someday it shall be narrated (face with raised eyebrow emoji)."

Amitabh was seen waving while holding a mic.

Amitabh visits Ayodhya

Amitabh's post came hours before he left for Ayodhya from Mumbai along with actor-son Abhishek Bachchan. They are in the temple city to attend the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple. At the temple premises, he was spotted interacting with Arun Govil, the actor who became a household name with the portrayal of Lord Ram in the 1987 TV serial Ramayan. The father-son duo also met BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad and industrialist Anil Ambani at the venue.

Amitabh met fans before travelling to Ayodhya

A day before travelling to Ayodhya, Amitabh on Sunday stepped out and met his fans who gathered outside his home Jalsa in Mumbai. He greeted his fans and many took pictures of the actor. For the meet, Amitabh opted for a white kurta that he paired with a shawl. Every Sunday, hundreds of fans gather outside Amitabh's residence to get a glimpse of the actor. For the past 40 years, he has been making sure to meet them.

Amitabh's films

Fans will see Amitabh next in the sci-fi action thriller film Kalki 2898 AD alongside Deepika Padukone and Prabhas. The Nag Ashwin film will release in the theatres on May 9. Kamal Haasan and Disha Patani are also part of the movie. Amitabh also has a courtroom drama film Section 84, in the pipeline.

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Acompanando a la presidenta Dina Boluarte y el premier @AlbertoOtarolaP, canciller @J_GonzalezOFr participa en la XXIV Reunion Extraordinaria del Consejo Andino de Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores (#CAMRE) junto a los Ministros y Autoridades encargados de la seguridad interna. pic.twitter.com/Rx7uroO9kt
Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan on Monday underwent an elbow surgery after an old injury got aggravated during the shooting of his new movie. The 53-year-old actor was reportedly admitted to the city's Kokilaben Hospital after he injured himself while performing an action sequence on the film. Also read: Jeh cries as dad Saif Ali Khan scolds him for trying to sit in car's front seat with brother Taimur Ali Khan. Watch Saif Ali khan has shared a health update. (AFP)

"This injury and the surgery that followed is a part of the wear and tear of what we do. I am very happy to be in such amazing surgical hands and thank all well-wishers for their love and concern," Saif said in a statement post surgery without specifying the nature of the injury.

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The actor reportedly suffered the injury while shooting for Vishal Bhardwaj-directed Rangoon in 2017.

According to a source, the actor was admitted to the hospital on Monday where he underwent elbow surgery. "He is doing well," the insider added.

Saif will next be seen in Devara, also starring Jr NTR and Janhvi Kapoor.

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Euphoria star Jacob Elordi is currently engaged in a full schedule with projects such as Priscilla and Saltburn, showcasing his impressive acting skills and contributing to his substantial earnings. Thanks to his standout performances in popular teen favourites like The Kissing Booth and Euphoria, the Australian actor has solidified his position as a sought-after talent in Hollywood, evident in the substantial paychecks he now commands. Jacob Elordi at the Los Angeles premiere of Saltburn on November 14, 2023.(AFP)

(Also Read: David Gail from Beverly Hills 90210 passes away at 58, fans shattered: Pure soul and real talent)

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The Kissing Booth Breakthrough and Beyond

Back in 2017, Jacob portrayed the brooding bad boy Noah in The Kissing Booth, a role that significantly raised his profile. He continued to embody the character in two subsequent sequels. While Netflix hasn't publicly disclosed his precise earnings from these films, it's reasonable to assume that he earned a substantial income, particularly by the time of the third and final movie.

Lead actors in HBO productions like Euphoria reportedly earn salaries ranging from $150,000 to $1 million per episode, while supporting actors typically average between $50,000 to $150,000. Although Jacob's specific salary remains undisclosed, it is reasonable to infer that he entered the six-figure earnings bracket by the airing of Season 2 in 2022.

High-Profile Brand Collaborations

As Jacob's celebrity ascends, so does his market value. Celebrities have the potential to earn anywhere from a few thousand dollars to a staggering $50 million for a single Instagram post in collaboration with a brand. Jacob has seamlessly embraced this trend.

In 2021, he emerged as one of the prominent figures in Calvin Klein's spring campaign. Following this, in 2022, he took on the role of the face for Hugo Boss's The Scent Le Parfum. Additionally, he was appointed as a brand ambassador for the prestigious Swiss watch brand Tag Heuer, joining the ranks of A-listers such as Ryan Gosling, Naomi Osaka, and Patrick Dempsey.

In a 2022 conversation with GQ, Jacob disclosed that he relocated to Los Angeles after completing the first Kissing Booth film. During that time, he occasionally "parked his 2004 Mitsubishi on Mulholland Drive and slept there."

Facing a scarcity of job opportunities and with a meager $400 or $800 left in his bank account, Jacob considered Euphoria as his final audition before contemplating a return home to replenish his finances and take a breather.

(Also Read: LA comedian Natasha Leggero takes off the top for a cheering crowd during performance)

As of 2023, Celebrity Net Worth estimates Jacob Elordi's total net worth at $4 million. This marks a significant leap from the modest $400$800 he had in his bank account before securing his role in Euphoria back in 2019.
The highly-anticipated teaser trailer of Ripley is here. On Monday, Netflix shared the stunning one minute-long teaser of the limited series. Andrew Scott looks chilling as the titular character in the Patricia Highsmith adaptation. (Also read: Why Robert Downey Jr feels Oppenheimers success has become a terrible tragedy for Christopher Nolan) Andrew Scott in a still from the teaser.

About the teaser

The teaser gives viewers a glimpse of the world of Ripley, that is based on Patricia Highsmiths best-selling Tom Ripley novels. Andrew Scott, who is mostly known for his role as Hot Priest in Fleabag, stars as a grifter who lives in early 1960s New York. The series follows as he is hired by a wealthy man to travel to Italy in a bid to convince his vagabond son to return home.

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The teaser shows Scott's Ripley evades from maintaining a normal contact, and is constantly in hiding. Either he is on the run or he is onto something- with forged identities, that few keep note of. Andrew Scott fascinates in a chilling avatar, and utters just one word- Ripley in the teaser.

Fan reactions

Reacting to the teaser, a fan wrote: It would be amazing if it turns out to be more than just the adaptation of Talented Mr. Ripley and follows through on the subsequent novels because the story is there. Another fan said, Steven Zaillian wrote Schindler's List, Mission: Impossible, Gangs of New York, Moneyball, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and The Irishman. This could be insanely good. A comment also read, Can't stop watching it over and over again!

Ripley is written and directed by Steven Zaillian. It also stars Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf, the 'vagabond son' and Dakota Fanning, as Ripley's girlfriend who grows suspicious of his actions.

The teaser also revealed the premiere date of Ripley, as all eight episodes of the series will start streaming from April 4.

Andrew Scott was last seen in Andrew Haigh's All Of Us Strangers, for which he received universal critical acclaim. He recently garnered a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in the film that also stars Paul Mescal, Claire Foy and Jamie Bell.

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Never was there a better example of a domino effect. Iran engaged in a series of attacks against those it charged with attacking it, including Kurdistan, and Syria. That was after Teheran launched attacks against Israel, and hit shipping through its sponsored groups like the Houthis, Hamas, and the Hezbollah among others. But the curious thing in all this is that it also chose to attack Pakistan, who is supposedly brotherly Muslim country. And Pakistan has struck back with air strikes. The threat of escalation may seem immense, but both actors have very carefully stepped back from the brink, as Beijing weighed immediately in calling for restraint. In simple words, Iran is getting attacked from all sides. Uan has for long been a target of terrorist attacks from Pakistan, from what was originally the Jundullah, and now its successor the Jaish ul Adl (JuA). Attacks began around 2000, at a time when Iran was formally declared as part of the Axis of Evil by George W Bush, and which included Iraq and North Korea. An interesting tidbit. In 2010, Iran reportedly forced down the aircraft, of Jundullah leader Abdul Malik Regi, and then executed him. Thats the public story. Al-Jazeera TV reported that he had been handed over by the Pakistan authorities. The point is Teheran chose to keep Pakistan out of the picture to save Islamabad embarrassment. But then came the JuA which claimed a series of horrifying attacks against Iranian security forces over the years. The most recent horrific January 3 twin blasts at a memorial for legendary Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani was claimed by Islamic State Khorasan as it often does, whether it did it or not. Teheran blamed Israels Mossad, and subsequently targeted Islamic state in Syria. Another attack in Rask which killed several policemen was blamed on both Pakistan and Israel . Now thats a new combination that raises interesting speculation. At any rate, Iran not just attacked Israeli/ United States (US) proxies in Kurdistan, it also attacked bases of the group in Pakistan on January 16 using drones and missiles. Pakistan border(File)

Now consider the reactions of both. A furious Pakistan declared that Iran should have used the many channels of communication that existed instead of an unprovoked attack on Panjgur in Balochistan using drones and missiles. The truth is that Teheran has demanded action through those channels for years with little reaction from Rawalpindi. It even charged Pakistani security forces of being in cahoots with terrorists. Pakistan reacted two days later with precision strikes of its own. But heres the curious part. Its operation Marg Bar Sarmachar was said to have targeted Pakistani origin terrorists with safe havens in ungoverned spaces. Thats a nice one for a country that has safe havens for decades for almost every terrorist group in the neighbourhood. At one time, that included Chinese Uighurs. Iran was equally circumspect. Irans foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said attacks targeted an Iranian terrorist group and that none of the nationals of the friendly and brotherly country of Pakistan were targeted by Iranian missiles and drones. There seems to have been a rethink overall, after Pakistan downgraded its representation in Iran. Islamabad statement also stressed respect and affection for Iran, all of which is as ironical as it can get. Earlier, in July 2023, the army chief Asim Munir met top Iranian military officials, with the thrust being on enhancing cooperation along the border, and defence and security ties. Teheran responded with fulsome compliments and swore that Pakistans and Irans security were one. And then came the attack.

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US intelligence is extremely brief in its description of the JuA, and all that is known is that its leader is Abdolrahim Mullahzadeh more commonly known as Salahoodin Farooqi. It was also said to have kidnapped retired naval officer-turned-businessman Kulbushan Jadav in 2016. That in itself shows that the group has a good relationship (at the very least) with Pakistani intelligence. Some eight million Baloch live in the desolate areas of Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Some 60% live in Pakistan. All live in dire conditions in one of the most hostile terrains, and almost all are oppressed in their respective States. Heres another curious fact. The JUA has little to do with the many insurgent groups fighting the Pakistanis who have caused a 57% violence according to a Pakistani report. Nowhere does it mention JuA or any assistance to Sarmachars like the Balochistan Liberation Front. All of these are entirely non jihadi, except that the insurgents want an independent state or at least full autonomy, while the JuA doesnt seem to want anything at all. Heres another fact. The border area where all of these operate is known for smuggling of all kinds, even through border posts manned on the Pakistani side by the Frontier Corps, its paramilitary force. Control of the border is clearly remunerative as earlier eight officers of the force serving in Balochistan were arrested for corruption in a rare case. On the Iranian side, the chiefs of Iranian customs were detained among others for financial corruption.

China jumped in to call for restraint immediately following the attack with the foreign ofice noting Iran and Pakistan are close neighbours and major Islamic countries. A day later it was offering to play a 'constructive role'. In June, China has hosted a trilateral meeting with both, to cooperate on counter terrorism. Unsurprisingly, after the first burst of rage, both Iran and Pakistan dialled back their reactions taking great pains to stress their brotherly relations. The White House condemned Iran strikes on Erbil, while the spokesman condemned the strikes on Pakistan in response to a question. President Joe Biden said it showed none of its neighbours liked Iran. India took a different view. Its spokesperson noted This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising position of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self-defence.

The threat of escalation remains. Pakistan had no choice but to react, and it seems that decision was taken by the army, even as the political leadership was parleying pleasantly in Davos. Meanwhile its already weak currency plunged as tensions escalated. Both the caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar and his foreign minister hurried back to Pakistan to attend a meeting of the National Security Committee, called by the army chief. Its difficult to see what it can do. In its present perilous state, it cannot afford a war. It cant even close the border due to much needed cheap petrol being smuggled in, with even Pakistan State oil companies involved. The key point is whether the Pakistan army wants to do so at all. There has been reports of the US backing the Jundullah into Iran. Now if Teheran is to believed, Israel is involved too, as are sections of the Islamic State. In other words, Pakistan is as usual, running with the hare and hunting with the hounds. With the army in charge, theres also the question of what Beijing thinks about this policy. Rawalpindi could find itself between a rock and a hard place. But then its rather accustomed to that.

This article is authored by Tara Kartha, distinguished fellow, Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, New Delhi.
Putting months of speculations and political uncertainties to rest, Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) nominated candidate, won the January 13, 2024 general elections in Taiwan. Currently serving as the vice president in the Tsai Ing-wen government, Ching-te aka William Lai secured 40% of total polled votes. While it is the first time since 2000 that a candidate has secured victory with less than 50% votes, but this gets offset by the fact first time since 1996 a party has won more than two consecutive presidential elections. Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's vice president and presidential candidate for the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, speaks at an election night rally outside the party headquarters during the presidential election in Taipei, Taiwan, on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024.(Bloomberg)

DPPs electoral victory comes at a crucial time when the United States (US)-China relations are at an all-time low and are on a freefall. Over past few weeks, China has not only expressed its displeasure over DPPs stand on the cross-strait relations but has also warned Taiwan of consequences should the latter try to defy the 1992 consensus.

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The DPP electoral victory is not only likely to embolden Taiwans foreign policy priorities but will also have long-term implications on both cross-strait relations and consequently  the US-China dynamics. Taiwans New Southbound policy, which is seen as its flagship initiative to engage the Indo-Pacific countries especially Southeast and South Asian countries along with Australia and New Zealand, might get sturdier and more action-oriented. The level of support it receives from other countries in the region may change accordingly.

It will not be to China's advantage if Taiwan gains more self-assurance in its political and strategic capabilities. In other words, the foremost implication of the DPP electoral victory will lead to spiking up of cross-strait tensions even though Beijing has remained somewhat restrained. The general narrative and political choices pertaining to the Taiwan Strait will also be influenced by the opinions and responses of the people in the US, China, and Taiwan.

A direct implication of the election result would be Taiwans reinvigorated attempt to secure more international recognition, which could elevate its standing at the global stage. However, considering Chinas aggressive move to take Taiwans friends into its own camp, the William Lai government has an uphill task on this front.

While it will serve Taipei well to elevate its profile in the Indo-Pacific and elsewhere to build stronger ties with like-minded countries, it may have to be mindful of the fragility of its ties with China. The new government in Taiwan must balance its pro-independence stance with caution while also keeping channels for conciliatory steps to ease tensions with China.

Having a strong backup strategy to deal with a hostile China on the economic front is necessary as it is trade, investment, and technological linkages where China is still Taiwans biggest partner. As per the US Department of Commerce, in 2022 China was Taiwans largest trading partner, accounting for 22.6% of total trade and 19.6% of Taiwans imports.

DPPs electoral victory is certainly good news for the US-Taiwan relations. It may be noted that despite maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan, the US has been the principal and most-reliable security provider to Taiwan. Moreover, the Taiwan Relations Act, 197 makes it incumbent upon the US to provide Taiwan with arms of a defensive character; and to maintain the capacity of the United States to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardise the security, or the social or economic system, of the people on Taiwan. The election outcome will impact the nature and extent of the US-Taiwan diplomatic, economic, and security ties, moving the two partners in a stronger embrace.

At the systemic level, however, tensions are likely to flare up between the two superpowers  China and the US. For China, Taiwan is a core issue and anything going against the policies and perceptions of President Xi Jinpings China will only deteriorate its relations with Washington  the chances of which are on an all-time high now. Coming months and years are likely to witness a more stressed China-US relations marked by an element of unpredictability. Increased tensions could lead to a more assertive military presence and escalations from both sides.

A logical extension of the US-China-Taiwan dynamics will consequently have implications on regional strategic equilibriums in East, Northeast, and Southeast Asia as well. For the US allies in Northeast Asia  Japan and South Korea, which also have stakes in cross-strait relations, - this could lead to more strategic anxieties. Japan has alluded to such concerns in its recent Defence White Papers. Major Indo-Pacific stakeholders - India, Japan, Australia, and South Korea, may closely watch and respond to developments in the Taiwan Strait.

A lot will depend on the deft with which Taipei takes its calculated strategic risks.

This article is authored by Rahul Mishra, associate professor, Centre for Indo-Pacific Studies, School of International Studies, JNU.
In a heartfelt expression of devotion, those unable to visit Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, have discovered meaningful ways to honour the deity. Across India, numerous couples are choosing to celebrate their weddings and marriage anniversaries with a Ram theme, aligning with Ram Mandir consecration ceremony. A wedding invite inspired by Ram-Sita

For example, a soon-to-be married couple is infusing Ram-inspired elements with a twist into their wedding festivities. Kamlesh Aggarwal, a businessman from Faridabad, shares, To capture the essence of the historic consecration ceremony at my sons wedding, we have incorporated elements such as hashtags. We used #JaiShriRam in the mehendi ceremony and are planning to perform a Ram Dhun during the sangeet. My sons baraat will only commence after Shri Rams aarti is complete in Ayodhya, as the special moment cannot be missed by anyone.

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The spirit of celebration extends beyond wedding ceremonies to encompass anniversaries as well. A couple from Hyderabad, Girish and Shruti Maheshwari Mallpani, decided to mark their silver anniversary uniquely at home. The couple adorned their home with Ayodhya-themed decor, featuring a Ramcharitmanas-inspired invite, a depiction of the Ram Setu, 5,000 diyas and other divine elements.

Minakshi Gupta from Little Gestures Events, who crafted the decor, explains, We chose the theme of Lord Ram returning to Ayodhya. The vibrant tones of red and orange fabric, coupled with flowers and 5,000 diyas, accompanied by the chanting of Jai Shree Ram, set the lively tone to commemorate this milestone.

A couple recreated version of Ram Setu bridge for their 25th anniversary celebration

Meanwhile, a Delhi-based couple, Anjana and Ashok Kapoor from Karol Bagh, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in a unique manner. They forwent grand celebrations and opted for an Akhand Ramayan Paath at home. Anjana remarks, Instead of a DJ and drinks, we thought this was the best way to contribute to such a significant, historic cultural moment in India and involve our relatives in it.
Assam Congress president Bhupen Kumar Borah sustained injuries after a group of people allegedly attacked the partys Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Nagaon district on Sunday. Congress general secretary in charge of communication Jairam Ramesh claimed that his vehicle was also vandalised. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam on Sunday. (ANI)

Sharing a picture of injured Borah, the Assam Congress wrote on X, Himanta Biswa Sarmas demonic attack on APCC President Bhupen Kumar Borah by his paid Gundas is one of the worst incidents in the political history of Assam. The attack is clear evidence of fear in the mind of the Chief Minister.

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Later attending an event at Kaliabor, Borah said, Today they shed my blood, Ill keep the bloodstained clothes, this will remind me about this insult.

Jairam Ramesh on Sunday shared a video of the alleged attack and said that BJP cadres under the influence of Himanta Biswa Sarma did it.

He wrote, 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.

He further wrote, 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 doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on.

Responding to this, Sarma tagged Assam director general of police (DGP) in a tweet on X and said, Pl register a case and enquire into the allegations.

Addressing the rally at Kaliabor, Rahul Gandhi said that his bus was stopped by a group of youngsters carrying 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, 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.Vandalise as many posters as you can, we wont stop our ideological fight, Gandhi said.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge joined the Yatra in Assam on Sunday. He said that the Assam CM is following the instructions of Union home minister Amit Shah while attacking the Congresss Yatra.

We made Himanta a leader but now he has become Moji Jis chela. What Shah (Amit) says, he does. They are terrorising Dalits, backward classes and now they are trying this on us. This wont work, he said.

Congress leaders said that Rahul Gandhi and the other leaders will visit the Batadrava Than on Monday. However, the authorities of the Than appealed to them to avoid visiting there before 3pm to avoid any controversy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the much-anticipated Ram Mandir consecration, or pran pratishtha, ceremony to be held in the temple town of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Monday, January 22 - in a virtual beginning to his re-election campaign for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. A devotee with his forehead marked with the name of Lord Ram looks on in Ayodhya on January 21, on the eve of the consecration ceremony of Ram temple. (AFP)

Tens of thousands of devotees waving flags, honking horns and beating drums have gathered in Ayodhya, with roads clogged, trains packed full and the scores marching in on foot.

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The 50-metre tall house of worship for Lord Ram Lalla was built on grounds where Babri Masjid stood for centuries before it was torn down in 1992 by karsevaks led by then Bharatiya Janata Party president Lal Krishna Advani.

Nearly 7,000 invitees, including politicians, industrialists, celebrities and sportspersons, are expected to attend the pran-pratishtha ceremony, which is expected to begin around 12.20pm.

Here is the full schedule of events planned for January 22:

At 10:25am, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Ayodhya. From the Ayodhya airport, Modi will take a helicopter to the venue.

At 10:55am, Modi will reach the Ram temple premises.

Between 11am and 12pm, the prime minister might take a tour of the Ram Mandir premises.

Between 12:05pm and 1pm, the pran pratishtha ceremony will begin with Modi presiding over the rituals.

Around 1pm, Modi will depart the temple premises to address a public meeting of around 7,000.

At 2:10pm, Modi will visit Kuber ka Tila, where the ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored.

Key Features of Ram temple in Ayodhya

The Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, commonly known as Ram temple, has been constructed in the traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height 161 feet. It is supported by a total of 392 pillars and has 44 doors.

The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at the Ram temple's ground floor, the idol of Ram Lalla has been placed.

Fourteen couples from various parts of the country will be the 'yajmaans' (hosts) for the 'pran pratishtha' of the new 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla. The idol was sculpted by Mysuru resident Arun Yogiraj and was placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple on Thursday.

The Ram mandir has been decorated with "rich stocks" of flowers and special lights.

Rituals began on January 16
A unique feature of the Ayodhya Ram temple is the Surya Tilak mechanism, designed to ensure that the Sun's rays fall on the forehead of Lord Ram's idol at noon on 'Sriram Navami' day every year for about 6 minutes, union minister Jitendra Singh said. Representative Image: An elderly devotee offers prayers on the occasion of Ayodhya Ram Mandir 'Pran Pratishthan', in Chennai, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024.( (PTI Photo/ R Senthilkumar))

Ram Navami, celebrated on the ninth day of the first month of the Hindu calendar, usually in March-April, marks the birthday of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

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The science & technology minister said in a statement that the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bengaluru provided technical support on the Sun's path and Optica.

Gearbox and reflective mirrors/lenses have been arranged such that sun rays from third floor near shikara will be brought to Garbha Griha using well-known principles of tracking Suns path, he said.

ALSO READ- How does Ram Mandir look from space? ISRO satellite captures image

'Scientists have ensured the Ram Mandir structure to be earthquake-proof'

Singh said, CSIR-CBRI Roorkee (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Central Building Research Institute) has played a crucial role in the early stages of the Ram Mandir construction.

The institute has contributed to the structural design of the main temple, the design of the Surya Tilak mechanism, vetting the design of the temple foundation, and implementing Structural Health Monitoring of the main temple.

He also mentioned that CSIR-NGRI Hyderabad (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - National Geophysical Research Institute) provided significant inputs on foundation design and seismic/earthquake safety. Additionally, several IITs and expertise from ISRO's space technologies were involved in the construction of this grand structure.

How did government science institutes aid in building the Ram Mandir?

 CSIR-CBRI Roorkee contributed to the structural design of the Ram Temple.

 CSIR-NGRI Hyderabad provided insights into foundation design and seismic safety.

 DST-IIA Bengaluru (Department of Science and Technology - Indian Institute of Astrophysics) offered technical support for the Sun's path, specifically Surya Tilak.

 CSIR-IHBT Palampur (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology) contributed to the blooming of tulips for the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22.
The 'pran pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya will take place on Monday with invitations extended to representatives from over 50 countries. Among the invitees is Kim Chil-su from South Korea, a member of the Queen Heo dynasty. Queen Heo(Wikimedia Commons Photo)

Queen Heo, alternatively known as Suriratna, was the cherished princess of Ayodhya, a report by the Economic Times said. Historical records suggest that she journeyed to Korea and married King Suro. The event is believed to have occurred in 48 AD and is acknowledged in South Korea and India. King Suro, who established the Karak dynasty in 42 AD, was Queen Heo's spouse.

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Legend has it that Queen Heo's parents had a dream in which a voice directed them to send their daughter to the place Geumgwan Gaya, as King Suro was in search of a queen. Responding to the dream's guidance, the couple sent their daughter on a boat with gifts to meet King Suro. The princess met the king, leading to their eventual marriage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the historical ties between Ayodhya and South Korea and the international significance of the Ayodhya-Lord Ram connection, extended an invitation to the First Lady of South Korea to visit Ayodhya.

Raja Ayodhya Bimlendra Mohan Pratap Mishra, often referred to as the 'King of Ayodhya' and currently a member of Ram Janmabhoomi Theertha Kshetra Trust, recounted in a 2018 interview with The Times of India the rekindling of ties between Ayodhya and South Korea in the mid-1990s.

He mentioned that in 1996, a delegation from Inje University visited Ayodhya to trace Queen Heo's lineage. In 1999, they extended an invitation to him to visit the capital of South Korea, where he was honored with the highest recognition. He expressed pride in having played a crucial role in strengthening the ties between India and South Korea.

In 2001, the Uttar Pradesh government, in partnership with Gimhae City in South Korea, established the Queen Huh Memorial Park in Ayodhya. Encompassing around 2,000 square meters, the park features a meditation hall, pavilions dedicated to the queen and king, pathways, a fountain, murals, and audio-video facilities. Subsequently, numerous descendants of Queen Heo from the Karak dynasty have been making visits to India.

South Korean Ambassador to India Chang Jae-Bok said last year that Ayodhya was "very important" for both counties. "The legend about an Indian princess marrying a Korean king 2,000 years ago has an Ayodhya connection, as one of our history books has a mention of a princess from Ayuta. I don't know if Ayuta is Ayodhya but it's Ayuta in Korean language. It is generally assumed that Ayuta was Ayodhya or Ayodhya was Ayuta", he said.
The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Tamil Nadu government to not to summarily reject requests for live streaming of Lord Ram Lalla's 'pran pratishtha' (consecration ceremony) in the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, as a PIL claimed the state has banned it. Supreme Court (ANI)

The court said that the permission can't be rejected on the sole ground that other communities are living in the locality. The apex court has also asked that the state to maintain a data of the applications received and decisions taken.

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Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu government told the court that there is no ban on holding screenings of the ceremony or holdings special poojas or bhajans on the occasion.

The decision comes after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday moved the Supreme Court as an urgent matter for hearing against the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government's alleged order banning the live telecast of Lord Ram Lalla's 'pran-pratishtha' (consecration ceremony) in the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on Monday, at temples and other public places.

The petition, representing BJP's state unit secretary Vinoj P Selvam, has been filed by Advocate G Balaji.

"It is respectfully submitted that State Government run by DMK political party has banned live telecast of the auspicious occasion of 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu," the plea said as per the news agency.

"The government has also banned all kinds of poojas, Archana and Annadanam (poor feeding) bhajans on this auspicious occasion. Such arbitrary exercise of power by the State Government (through police officials) per se violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution," it added.

On Sunday, union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman claimed that there were several reports alleging MK Stalin-led state government has banned the live streaming of the pran-pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Ram Mandir which is scheduled to take place today.

Saying that there are over 200 temples dedicated to Lord Ram in the state, Sitharaman said the police are stopping privately held temples also from organising events.

Tamil Nadu government has banned watching live telecast of Ayodha Ram Mandir programmes of January 22. In Tamil Nadu there are over 200 temples for Shri Ram. In HR and CE managed temples no puja, bhajan, prasadam or 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," the finance minister wrote on X.

The assertions were however denied by the state as false news with ulterior motives.

"Strongly condemn the spreading of false information in an attempt to divert people's attention from the DMK Youth Conference in SalemIt is unfortunate that people in office, like Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and others, are purposefully propagating this erroneous information," he said in a social media post.

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," the state minister added.

The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Temple will be held at 12:30 pm today. The historic ritual will be graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, saints, and a host of distinguished guests.

(With inputs from agencies)
Kolkata: Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee said on Monday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was anti-women as it mentioned the name of Ram but didnt talk about Sita. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee held an all-faith rally in Kolkata on Monday. (TMC/X)

I am not against Ram. I respect both Ram and Sita. But why dont you (BJP) mention Sitas name? Are you anti-women? Without Sita, Ram wont be there. Ram wouldnt have taken birth had Kaushalya not been there, Banerjee said in Kolkata.

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The chief minister was addressing a gathering at the end of an interfaith harmony rally. While Banerjee led the rally, religious leaders walked behind her holding each others hands. TMC leaders, including the partys National general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, formed the tail of the rally. The TMC chief also performed puja at Kalighat temple and offer prayers at a church, gurdwara and mosque during the rally.

Kaushalya gave birth to Ram. It was Sita who went to vanvas with Ram for 14 years and also performed the agni-pariksha. Ram worshipped Goddess Durga before he slayed Ravan, she added.

This came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ram temple in Ayodhya and led the rituals of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony there.

The state BJP unit dismissed her allegation.

When the Talaq bill was introduced the TMC had opposed it. West Bengal tops the list of states when it comes to incidents of atrocities against women. She had stopped an immersion process of Goddess Durga while allowing a procession of a minority community. She has no moral right to call the BJP anti-women, said Rahul Sinha, BJP leader.

Also Read: Ram Mandir ceremony: Bengal BJP chief urges Mamata Banerjee to declare holiday on January 22

The Kanyashree scheme is among several schemes that the Banerjee government has rolled out for women. The Kanyashree aims at promoting education and prevent child marriage by using cash incentives; the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme launched ahead of the 2021 assembly election aims to provide financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections of society.

Banerjee also took a dig at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi without naming him. Gandhi on Monday said he was stopped from visiting Assams Batadrava Than, the birthplace of saint Srimanta Sankardeva.

I have the spirit to fight. But I am not allowed to fight. Today I showed courage and organised a rally. There are so many political parties. What did they do? Was it sufficient to visit one temple? I went to church, temple, gurudwara and mazar

She also lashed out at the BJP saying that she wont spare a single seat to the saffron party in the coming 2024 Lok Sabha election.

I am ready to give as much blood as is required but I wont spare BJP a single seat. Everyone in my family has been branded a thief because I speak against them (BJP). Who are you? When you dont remain in power, people would get to know where did the countrys money go, how was it siphoned and who were the beneficiaries. It filled the BJPs coffers
Three national cooperatives established last year are becoming the pivot for Indias rural economy through exports, seed production and procurement of farm produce, review of their commercial activities show.

The cooperation ministry headed by Amit Shah has modified laws, including the Multi-State Cooperative Act 2023, which has enabled cooperatives to expand operations to 22 new businesses, including running of petrol pumps.

The new multistate cooperatives are projected to handle more than $1 billion worth of commerce and trade in the next five years, an official said, seeking anonymity. For instance, the National Cooperative Export Ltd (NCEL) is extending a range of services to ramp up overseas shipments of organic produce.

The NCEL has connected connect the trade and foreign ministries and Indian embassies to boost market linkages and supply chains for export of farm produce, the official said. It will develop into a complete export ecosystem, covering procurement, storage, processing, marketing, branding, labelling, packaging and certification, a statement said. At least 50% of profits will go to farmers, according to its proposed business model.

The NCEL is launched in the cooperative sector with six objectives of increasing exports, prospering the farmer, changing the crop pattern, providing global market for organic products, gaining a place for India in the global market for biofuel and strengthening the cooperative sector, Shah said recently.

At the heart of the push for a rural economy led by co-operatives lies a huge network of nearly 60,000 rural grassroots financial centres, of which only 36,000 run profitably. They have been around for decades, some since Independence. The central government wants to transform these entities, known as primary-level cooperative societies (PACS) to overcome unemployment and spur business opportunities.

Among the initiatives, a new programme to build the worlds largest grain storage plan worth 1 lakh crore will be driven by farm cooperatives, which traditionally deliver agricultural credit to millions of farmers.

Cooperatives are jointly owned by participating members, who share profits and losses. The popular milk brand Amul is a cooperative and so is Indias largest fertilizer maker, Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO).

In July 2021, the government created a ministry for cooperation helmed by Shah, carving it out of the farm ministry. The Centre has since rolled out several changes to digitise and expand a sector that plays a key role in the rural economy. At the time, Shah had said the cooperative sector was going to make the largest contribution to Prime Minister Narendra Modis dream of making India a $5 trillion economy.

Under the Constitutions Seventh Schedule, which divides responsibilities between the Centre and states, state governments have jurisdiction over cooperatives. However, the Centre has control over policymaking for cooperatives that operate in more than one state, known as multistate cooperatives. The Centre has also formed a 47-member panel headed by former Union minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu to formulate a national policy on cooperatives.

The Centre will not interfere or dilute states jurisdiction over cooperatives but the sector needed to be in lockstep with a national goal, Shah had said.

In a recent meeting between the Centre and the states, Shah said the Centre will launch a national policy that can guide states to align their policies on cooperatives with a broader all-India blueprint.

The mandate given to the Prabhu committee to form a new national policy revolves around widening the scope of businesses for cooperatives, such as lending for consumption and medical loans, against collateral such as bonds and commodities, as well as a range of financial services.

A key issue is that farmers shares in cooperatives are often too small, which results in poor payouts. Small farmers sell a major chunk of their produce to private traders, which prevents them from reaping the profits of their produce even during a bumper harvest, according to a recent study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research. Their small quantity transactions translate into meagre cooperative shares and weak bargaining power in the market, the think tank said.

Theres a lot of scepticism around cooperatives, especially in Maharashtra, which is associated with politics and power, said policy analyst Sakshi Abrol. The advantages of a revamp would be that we should learn from earlier mistakes and bring transparency. That is the key.
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) president Dennis Francis on Monday said that he is delighted to arrive in India on the day the country is celebrating its second Diwali - referring to the Ram temple's grand consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis was received by India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj upon his arrival in New Delhi. (PTI)

Francis also shared a video of his arrival in New Delhi on his official X (formerly known as Twitter) account, where he can be seen being received by India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj.

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Namaste, Bharat! Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its 'Second Diwali'. Looking forward to fruitful discussions over the next few days on Peace, Progress, Prosperity, and Sustainability!, the UNGA President wrote on X.

Francis is on a five-day visit to India from January 22 to 26 with an aim to advance India-UN ties. During his visit, Francis will hold talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on key multilateral issues of mutual interest.

In New Delhi, he will also pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, attend a round table on India's advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability on January 24.

During the last two days of his visit to India, the UNGA president will travel to Jaipur and Mumbai. He will also participate as a state guest in the Republic Day Parade in Maharashtra.

Ram Mandir consecration ceremony

The grand pran pratishtha ceremony was held at the Ram temple in the holy city of Ayodhya on Monday in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, saints, and a host of distinguished guests. The temple's consecration ceremony marks a significant moment in India's cultural and religious history, drawing attention not only from the nation but also from global audiences.

Also read: First look of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya after pran pratishtha

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, and is constructed in traditional Nagara style. The pillars of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. Meanwhile, the idol of Ram Lalla has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum of the temple on the ground floor.

Addressing the crowd after the pran pratishtha ceremony at the temple, PM Modi said, Our Ram has arrivedRam Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple.

I have firm belief and immense faith that today, the devotees of Prabhu Ram are completely absorbed in this historic moment...the devotees of Prabhu Ram, in every corner of the country and the world, are deeply feeling this...This moment is divine, this moment is the holiest of all, he added.

PM Modi also apologised to Lord Ram saying, There must be something lacking in our effort, sacrifice, and penance that we could not do this work for so many centuries. Today, the work has been completed. I believe that Lord Ram will forgive us today.
The Madras high court on Monday stated that the stand of the Tamil Nadu government is clear that they have neither prohibited nor restricted singing bhajans, uttering Rama Nama, and providing annadanam (free food for poor) to celebrate the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Tamil Nadu clears stand on Ram temple celebrations in the state. (PTI)

But, this has to be done in a responsible and pious manner today without giving rise to any law and order problem, justice V Anand Venkatesh said. No misinformation or wrong information must be permitted to be spread and this will be kept in mind by all parties concerned. Ultimately, everyone concerned must keep in mind that bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the equilibrium prevailing in the society.

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The judge heard the matter in his chambers at 9.30am, an hour before the court opens, on an urgent writ petition filed by one L Ganapathy in Chennai. He had challenged the permission denied by the Avadi commissionerate on Sunday to conduct bhajans and annadhanam at a private marriage hall in Pattabiram. Subsequently, the commissionerate granted the permission, said additional public prosecutor A Damodharan.

Read Here: Supreme Court pulls up Tamil Nadu govt over ban on live telecast of Ram Temple ceremony

Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and BJP leaders alleged that the ruling DMK is banning celebrations in Tamil Nadu but the state refuted the allegations.

The state also recorded its stand on the matter. The functions, bhajans, annadhanams that are conducted in private enclosures like mandapams, private temples and any other private place etc., does not require any permission from the police, the state said, adding that organisers can make arrangements for live streaming of the Pran Prathishta at Ayodhya. If there was a possibility for the function to spill over from a private space to a public space, the police had to be informed to take measures to keep the situation under control and to ensure that public access is not disturbed.

If such functions are planned to be conducted within the temples, which are within the control of the department of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE), an official of the department had to be informed and permission will be granted subject to reasonable conditions imposed. If the police are of the opinion that the local situation is sensitive, they can impose restrictions and ensure that the function does not lead to any unnecessary law and order issued.

The matter was then disposed off.
India on Monday was gripped in Diwali-like fervour with Lord Ram chants, posters, saffron flags, diyas, and firecrackers as the whole country celebrated the inauguration of the historic Ram temple in Ayodhya. Fireworks light up the sky during the celebration of the consecration ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram Temple(PTI)

While several people, including union ministers and other politicians, celebrated Deepotsav at their homes, some also took to the streets and lit up special lights and burst firecrackers.

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The Ram temple consecration ceremony was held on Monday afternoon in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath among other thousands of dignitaries.

Celebrations across states:

Several people in Tamil Nadu's Chennai celebrated Deepotsav to mark the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. In a video posted by news agency ANI, a large group of people can be seen lighting up diyas on a street.

To mark the historic event, 1,001 diyas have been lit up on the banks of river Kangsabati in Midnapore, West Bengal.

The Swaminarayan Gurukul Vishwavidya Pratisthanam (SGVP) Gurukul in Gujarat's Ahmedabad was decorated with hundreds of special lights on Monday evening to mark the opening of the Ram temple. Several firecrackers were also burst near the institute.

Firecrackers adorned the sky over Chandigarh as locals celebrate the historic day.

In Kerala, the Ram Jyoti' was lit up at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram where several people paid tributes. In a video posted by PTI, some children can also be dressed as Lord Ram.

People lit up earthen lamps in large numbers in Chhattisgarh capital Raipur's Kota area to mark the Ayodhya Ram temple 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony.

Massive Depotsav -like celebrations were held at Hari Ki Pauri in Haridwar on Monday evening.

Oil lamps were lit at the ISKCON temple in Bengaluru after the pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple.

Devotees in Bihar also celebrated Deepotsav by lighting up diyas.

Massive celebrations were also witnessed across Delhi and its neighbouring National Capital Region (NCR).

People lit diyas on the day of Pran Pratishtha of Lord Rama in Ayodhya at Connaught Place in New Delhi (Sanchit Khanna)

People lighting lamps and praying on the occasion of Ram Mandir consecration in Noida (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times)

Several people in the northeast also celebrated the consecration of Ram temple. As many as one lakh earthen lamps each were lit at the revered Kamakhya temple and the Basistha temple in Guwahati.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening lit up the Ram Jyoti (earthern lamps) at his residence after the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla in the newly-built Ram temple in Ayodhya. Urging citizens to do the same, Modi said, On this auspicious occasion, I request all the countrymen to light the Ram Jyoti and welcome Lord Ram in their homes. Jai Siya Ram!

Several union ministers and other politicians also celebrated Deepotsav to mark the Ram temple inauguration.
Hyderabad Senior Congress leader and former Lok Sabha member Mallu Ravi was on Sunday appointed as the special representative of the Telangana government in New Delhi. HT Image

A government order to this effect was issued by chief secretary A Santhi Kumari. Ravi had the same post when the late Y S Rajasekhara Reddy was Chief Minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

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Ravi, who is presently Pradesh Congress Committee senior vice-president, represented Nagarkurnool parliamentary constituency twice  between 1991 and 1996 and again during 1998-1999. He was also an MLA from Jadcherla constituency for a brief period between 2008 and 2099.

The government also appointed former MLA Vem Narender Reddy, a close follower of chief minister A Revanth Reddy, as advisor to chief minister (public affairs), while former Congress Legislature Party leader and ex-minister Mohammed Ali Shabbir was named as advisor to the government (SC, ST, OBC, Minorities Welfare).

In a separate order, the government also appointed another senior Congress leader Harkara Venugopal as advisor to the government (protocol and public relations).

All the four senior leaders were appointed in the rank and status of the cabinet minister.

The Congress high command has already named PCC working president Mahesh Kumar Goud and NSUI leader Balmoor Venkat as the MLC candidates under MLAs quota. They filed their nominations as MLC candidates on Friday and since there were no other nominations, they would be declared elected unopposed on Monday.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s nationwide celebration of the grand opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya evoked a mixed response among members of the opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal during celebrations at Gole Market in New Delhi on Monday. (HT photo)

While the Congress, CPI(M) and Trinamool Congress (TMC) hit out at the BJP for politicising the event, other parties like the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) joined celebrations across the country.

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In a statement, CPI(M) leader and Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the line that demarcates religion and state seems to be getting thinner and thinner.

As our first Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru has often opined, Indian secularism means the separation of religion and state. We even have a strong tradition of maintaining that separation. However, of late, the line that demarcates religion and state seems to be getting thinner and thinner. This is a major departure from the times when our constitutional office bearers have been cautioned from taking part in religious events, as it would cast aspersions on our credentials as a secular state, Vijayan, whose party was one of the first to decline the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trusts invite for the ceremony, said.

Read Here | Line between religion, state getting thinner: Kerala CM as Ram temple inaugurated

He also said that we have come to a point in time when the inauguration of a religious place of worship in the country is being celebrated as a state event. He exhorted the public to remain committed to the Constitutions secular credentials by declining to participate in the celebrations. Most of us have been invited to participate in the rituals, by the trust in charge of it. As those who have pledged to preserve and protect our Constitution, let us reaffirm our commitment to its secular character, by declining to participate in the event, upholding our Constitutional responsibilities, he said.

Congress leader and Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah criticised the BJP for politicising the event and said the Congress is also devoted to Lord Ram. There should not be any politics on Ram because Sriramachandra belongs to everyone. He is not God to the BJP alone. He is every Hindus God, he said.

TMC chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee labelled the BJP as anti-women for omitting Goddess Sita from their discourse about Lord Ram.

Other opposition leaders, however, took part in various events to mark the consecration ceremony.

Read Here | Diyas, firecrackers: India celebrates 'Diwali' after Ram temple inauguration

Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all of you on this sacred occasion of the installation of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram in the grand temple. Hail Siya Ram, AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal said in a post on X.

Im so glad that Ram Lallas idol has been consecrated. Last week, we conducted Sundarkand recitations at many places in Delhi. From now onwards, we will organise Sundarkand recitals on the first Tuesday of every month, he added.

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said the Lord resides in the hearts of those who respect customs, ethics and decorum. Everyone will follow the path of Ramrajya which was envisioned by Maryada Purushottam ji, where the poor do not remain sad, the youth are happy, move ahead and everyone is happy, he said in Lucknow.

Today in Srikshetra Ayodhya, the idol of Lord Sri Rama is being worshipped. In this background, the festival is being celebrated across the country today, Nationalist Congress Partys Maharashtra unit chief Jayant Patil said.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday lashed out at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who is in the north-eastern state as part of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, calling him a Ravan.



When asked about his response to Gandhi's remarks attacking him, Sarma was quoted by ANI as saying,"Why are you talking about Ravan today? Atleast talk about Ram today. We have the opportunity to talk about Ram after 500 years. We should only talk about him and not about Ravan."



Sarma was referring to the pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, that was presided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today.



High drama ensued in Assam's Nagaon on Monday as Gandhi was stopped from visiting the Sri Sri Sankardeva Satra in Nagaon district and also from holding a meeting in the Morigaon district.



In protest, Gandhi asked whether PM Modi will now "decide who will visit a temple and when". Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi

Gandhi had left early in the morning for the Satra, the birthplace of 15th-century social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva, but was stopped at Haibargaon following which he along with other senior party leaders sat on dharna. The Congress also claimed that the authorities didn't give him any reasons for stopping him.

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Will PM Modi decide who will visit a temple?

"Will PM Modi now decide who will visit a temple and when?... We do not want to create any problems and simply pray at the temple," Gandhi was quoted by PTI as saying to the police authorities.



Rahul Gandhi alleged that Modi exerted pressure on the Assam government to prevent him from visiting the birthplace of the iconic saint and paying his obeisance.

The Congress leader told reporters that he believed in the philosophy of Sankardeva as ''we, like him, believe in bringing people together and not spreading hatred. He is like a guru to us and gives us direction. So I had thought when I came to Assam, I should offer my respects to him''.
Chennai: Reacting to allegations that the Tamil Nadu government has been attempting to block the live telecast of the Ram Temple event in Ayodhya, union minister and BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday called MK Stalin's DMK a "Hindu-hating" party. She said the ruling party is showing "personal hatred" for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman.(Bloomberg file photo)

"The Tamil Nadu police are being misused by the government of Tamil Nadu...They are being misused by Hindu-hating DMK...Can any citizen be denied to watch the Prime Minister? The DMK is showing its personal hatred for the Prime Minister," Sitharaman was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

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She alleged that in a temple in Tamil Nadu, the local police had denied the permission to put up LED screens for the live telecast of the Ayodhya event.

"In the Thovalai Murugan Temple , located in Nagercoil, permission is being denied to put up LED screens for live telecast. Order by police seen below," she said.

Follow full coverage on Ram Temple consecration ceremony

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Tamil Nadu authorities to act in accordance with the law and not on the basis of oral instructions on "banning" special prayers and live telecast of the Ram temple consecration ceremony.

A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, while hearing a plea seeking quashing of an "oral order" dated January 20 banning live telecast of the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya in temples across Tamil Nadu, said no one is bound to abide with the oral orders.

Also read: MK Stalin government 'banned' Ayodhya Temple live telecast in Tamil Nadu: Nirmala Sitharaman

The Supreme Court asked the authorities to list on record the reasons for taking any such action. It also asked them to maintain data of places of worship that are not allowed to hold special prayers or the live telecast of the ceremony.

Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Monday claimed the staff of Shri Ram temple in Chennai -- which is under the state government's control -- faced repression.

Also read: Need Tamil nationalism, not Hindu nationalism, says DMK MP A Raja on Ram Temple event eve

"This morning I visited Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple, West Mambalam, Chennai, and offered prayers to Prabhu Sri Ram for the well-being of all. This temple is under the HR & CE Dept. (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the state government). There was an all-pervasive sense of invisible fear and apprehensions writ large on the faces of priests and temple staff. A stark contrast to the festive environment in the rest of the country. While the entire country is celebrating the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla, the temple premises here exude a sense of acute repression," he wrote on X.

On Sunday, Sitharaman claimed the Tamil Nadu police were stopping privately held temples from organising events commemorating the Ram Temple event.

Last week, the DMK said it was against the temple because it was built after the destruction of a mosque.

With inputs from PTI, ANI
YEREVAN, JANUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. Twenty-seven people were killed and 25 injured when Ukrainian forces shelled the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, Denis Pushilin, the Russian-appointed head of the Donetsk region, said on Sunday.

Reuters cited Alexei Kulemzin, the city's Russian-installed mayor, as saying that Ukrainian forces bombarded a busy area where shops and a market are located. Pushilin said the city was shelled by Ukrainian artillery.

In his nightly video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy did not address the attack but said that in a single day, Russia had shelled more than 100 cities, towns and villages in nine regions in Ukraine, and that the attacks in Donetsk region had been "particularly severe."

Ukraine's forces in the Tavria, or southern zone, said in a Facebook post that soldiers under its command were not responsible. "Donetsk is Ukraine!" it said. "Russia will have to answer for taking lives of Ukrainians."

Pushilin said 18 of the injured were hospitalised and seven being treated as outpatients.

In Moscow, the Russian Foreign Ministry called the attack "a barbaric act of terrorism" by Ukraine that was carried out "with the use of weapons supplied by the West".

The governor of the Ukrainian-controlled part of the region, Vadym Filashkin, said Russian attacks killed at least two people at two locations west of the city of Donetsk on Sunday.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned an attack on the city of Donetsk, but refused to pin the blame for the shelling that left at least 27 civilians dead and over two dozen injured, including several children.

The Secretary-General strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including todays shelling of the city of Donetsk in Ukraine, the spokesperson for the UN chief said in a brief statement on Sunday night.

Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law, are unacceptable and must stop immediately, it added.
Its a battle that is being fought between the civil society and the government in the public space and in open courts  without a hint of any forward movement. EVM Machine awareness program at 90 ft road and Kamraj School at Dharavi in Mumbai. (Photo by Raju Shinde/HT Photo)

A creme de la creme bunch of civil society veterans  former civil servants, academics, writers and journalists, tech wizkids, activists and former judges are trying to push an envelope that is simply not willing to move.

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All I can say is that electronic voting machines (EVMs) are a live issue, former Judge of the Supreme Court, Madan Lokur, told this reporter. He headed the Citizens Commission on Elections, an independent body that in 2021 recommended widespread reforms in the EVM system, calling for greater accountability to the public.

A rash of BJP triumphs in the Hindi heartland in the recent assembly elections  accompanied by a couple of significant losses in the south of the country a little earlier  have triggered a fresh round of controversy over the veracity of EVMs in a densely populated and vast country like India.

The VVPAT debate

This expert civil society group, despite raising some pertinent points - many of them before the apex court itself - are pretty much ploughing a lonely furrow for the moment.

Devasahayam MG, a former bureaucrat and member of this Commission, told this reporter: Elections should not only be fair but also appear to be fair. The incessant and disorderly public debates, suspicion, and court cases around EVMs and Voter-Verifiable Paper Trail (VVPATs) are certainly not good for democracy.

He added: Most recently, allegations of malpractice were raised ahead of the counting of votes in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, when a video emerged of officials sorting ballot papers from the strongroom in Balaghat. The Election Commission of India (ECI) should endeavour to put all doubts to rest. To engender complete public trust, elections need to be demonstrably and publicly verifiable. 

Also read: Ahead of 2024 polls, EC starts awareness programme on EVMs

For the time being though, verification of EVMs appears to be a bridge too far. The Citizens Commission on Elections, concluded that EVMs do not provide provable guarantees against hacking, tampering and spurious vote injections and the VVPAT system does not allow the voter to verify the slip before the vote is cast.

According to Devasahayam, EVM/VVPAT voting does not comply with the essential Democracy Principles - that each voter should be able to verify that her vote is cast-as-intended, recorded-as-cast and counted-as-recorded.

Though the ECI has arranged for all EVMs to be accompanied with VVPAT-device, it has been reduced to the level of a bioscope, which shows up a tiny paper slip for seven seconds that vanishes and is not counted, he said.

Transparency in the VVPAT system

Devasahayams proposed reform: the VVPAT system should be re-calibrated to be fully voter verifiable. "A voter should be able to get the VVPAT slip in hand and cast it in a chip-free ballot box for the vote to be valid. These VVPAT slips should be fully counted first for all constituencies before the results are declared. For this purpose, VVPAT slips should be larger in size and must be printed in such a manner that they can be preserved for a minimum of five years, he points out.

Former IAS officer Afzal Amanullah, who has conducted elections at various levels in the state, in a video statement said that in a time and age when the most sophisticated high tech IT hardware, bank accounts, mails and mobile phones can be hacked at will, an EVM is a relatively harmless equipment to break into  only someone  read the Election Commission - needs to check it out.

Earlier this month, the Election Commission told Congress leader Jairam Ramesh that the current EVMs in use in elections comply with the legal framework strengthened by successive Union governments. The EC reaction came in the backdrop of multiple letters sent by members of the opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc raising concerns about the integrity of the machines.

The 28-party INDIA bloc had submitted a memorandum to the poll panel on August 9, 2023, asking questions about the use of EVMs and VVPATs. The bloc followed it up with four letters in the same month to meet with the EC.

The Commission, however, recently updated its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section on EVMs on its website from 76 to 85 to answer some of the questions but did not address the specific concerns raised by the parties.

Last November, the Supreme Court observed that enhancing the scale of EVM data cross-checking against VVPAT records would increase the Election Commission's work without any 'big advantage.

So, for the moment, it is back to square one.
India and the European Union will hold the seventh round of negotiations over the proposed free trade pact in mid-February, which will cover matters related to services and investments after discussions on goods and public procurements in previous rounds, two people aware of the development said.

Substantial progress has been made in 18 out of 23 policy areas during the sixth round, which was held from October 16-21, 2023. After the round, in the last three-four months, the two sides ironed out several differences and prepared the ground to start the seventh round of negotiations from February 19-23, 2024, in the Indian capital, one of them said. The sixth round held 71 technical sessions, he added.

Chief negotiators of both India and the EU have discussed modalities to take up chapters for services and investment and subsequently officials have agreed to proceed further, a second person said.

The two parties are discussing a bilateral free trade agreement, an investment protection agreement, and a pact for geographical indications. Now they will discuss services and investment, they said, requesting anonymity.

The EU wants India to remove barriers of trade for its smaller firms, open up services and Indian public procurement market, which is being negotiated on the principles of reciprocity and equity while protecting interests of domestic micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the second person said.

MSMEs, agriculture and dairy are sensitive sectors for India and New Delhi would not open them up for European producers on the principle of equity, he said.

Although India is the worlds fifth largest economy, it is still a developing nation with significantly low per capita income compared to European countries. Reciprocal trade arrangements in sectors such as farming and dairy are not possible as Indian farmers are poor. For them farming is for subsistence rather than profit, hence the government is committed to protecting their interests, he said.

Unlike recently signed trade pacts with Australia and the United Arab Emirates, the proposed deal with EU is comprehensive both in terms of vastness (27 member countries) and scope (in terms of subjects under negotiations). It will naturally take more time, he said.

The trade and investment negotiations was launched about a month after Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Leaders Meeting on May 8, 2021, at the invitation of the European Councils President, Charles Michel. It was the first time that the EU hosted a meeting with India in the EU+27 format.

The trade negotiation was relaunched in 2022, along with separate negotiations for an investment protection agreement and an agreement on geographical indicators. The trade negotiations was launched in June 17, 2022, by commerce minister Piyush Goyal and European Commission executive vice-president Valdis Dombrovskis. The EU and India had first launched negotiations for a free trade agreement in 2007 before the talks were suspended in 2013 due to a gap in ambition, an EU statement issued during the relaunch said.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a juvenile for allegedly harbouring the terrorists involved in the killing of seven civilians in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir last year, the agency said in a statement on Sunday. The minor was involved in killing of seven civilians in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir last year. (Vipin Kumar/HT PHOTO)

The federal anti-terror agency said that the minor was lodged at an observation home in RS Pura town of Jammu over a different case registered in Poonch. The agency did not disclose what that case was. The minor was taken into custody by NIA on Saturday and produced before the Juvenile Justice Board in Rajouri for remand.

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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.

On January 1 , 2023, four civiliansDeepak Kumar (23), Satish Kumar (45), Pritam Lal (56), and Shiv Pal (32)were killed after unidentified armed men indiscriminately opened fire in a terror attack at Dhangri village in Rajouri. Twelve hours later, two children, Vihan Sharma (4), and Samiksha Sharma (16), died when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by the terrorists went off in the village. On January 8, Prince Sharma, who was injured in the terrorist firing, succumbed to the injuries. He was in his 20s.

NIA arrested Ahmed and Hussain on August 31 last year, and they are presently lodged at the Central Jail in 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 agency said.

An NIA team regularly camped in the Rajouri, Poonch and Reasi districts of Jammu and Kashmir in search of those behind the attack, the agency said.

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, NIA said.

After the Dhangri attack, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) began providing arms training to village defence guards or VDGs in Jammu and Kashmir to counter any terror attack in their areas. 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.

Attacks on security forces and civilians in Jammu districts have become a cause for concern for security officials, who have said that Pakistan-based terrorist groups have shifted focus to Jammu, Rajouri, Poonch and Reasi districts in a bid to ferment unrest in J&K.
Thousands clad in saffron danced in the streets waving saffron flags, rangolis were made and temples were lit up with diyas as people gathered to recite hymns and devotional songs about the Hindu god Ram across the country since early morning on Monday. Devotees light earthen oil lamps on the bank of the Sarayu river to celebrate the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Monday. (Reuters)

Diwali-like celebrations were held in cities, towns and villages in most states as the country marked the day the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya was thrown open following a consecration ceremony of the idol of the child god or Ram Lalla led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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While central government and most states announced a half-day, till 2.30pm, others like Maharashtra declared a public holiday to mark the occasion. Some states such as Uttar Pradesh declared a dry day and prohibited the sale of meat dishes for the day.

People flocked to various temples to offer prayers, organised havans and community feasts and took out colourful processions through the streets.

Ram Temple inauguration: Parents of babies born on propitious day overjoyed

In Delhi, people held Sundarkand recitals, took out rallies and organised bhandara as posters of Lord Ram and saffron flags with the deitys picture dotted the city, devotional songs blared through loudspeakers and special screens provided a live telecast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony.

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party organised shobha yatras and bhandaras in different parts of the city, and chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his cabinet colleagues and AAP MLAs took part in various religious events. Hearty congratulations and best wishes to all of you on this sacred occasion of the installation of Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram in the grand temple. Hail Siya Ram, Kejriwal said in a post on X.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh, who visited a Shiva temple in Delhi, described the event in Ayodhya as a revolutionary work and said those who witnessed this moment are fortunate.

Several temples and gurdwara committees across Punjab held similar celebrations and organised langars to mark the opening of the temple in Ayodhya. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Badal engaged in seva and served food at a langar (community feast) organised in Amritsar. Governor Banwari Lal Purohit organised a bhandara and live streaming of the ceremony.

Read Here: Glittering turnout as guests from all walks attend Ram Temple inauguration event

In Jammu, thousands of people flocked to the Raghunath temple. The people of Jammu have a lot of faith in Lord Ram. It is called a city of temples, so the people here are very excited. In every house and at every square, you will see the flags dedicated to Lord Ram, Sanjay Chandel, a devotee, said.

In Katra, the Mata Vaishnodevi Temple was decked with decorations and hundreds of devotees offered prayers at the cave shrine amid tight security.

In Uttarakhand, a special aarti was performed at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. The Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, which manages over 50 temples in the state, organised events at several locations.

In Himachal Pradesh, a Kar Sevak Samman ceremony --- honouring volunteers who worked on the temple -- was organised at Gaiety Theatre in Shimla. Former chief minister and leader of the opposition, Jairam Thakur, attended the event and paid tributes to the volunteers who lost their lives during the Ram Mandir movement. It is due to the sacrifices of lakhs of people that participated in the Ram Mandir movement that this auspicious day has arrived today, he said.

Read Here: PM Modi lights 'Ram Jyoti' after Ayodhya Ram Temple 'pran pratishtha' ceremony

Rajasthan was also in a festive mood as temples and houses were decked up with flowers, saffron flags and lights while people exchanged wishes on the occasion. Chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma offered prayers at Dehlawas Balaji temple in Jaipur. He also paid obeisance at Salasar Balaji temple in Churu and Khatu Shyamji temple in Sikar later in the day.

Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla participated in a Ram Lalla Shubhagaman Padyatra in Kota. For years, we were waiting for the construction of the (Ram) temple and installation of Lord Rams idol in Ayodhya. Today, we have witnessed that golden and historic moment, he said.

In Jaisalmer, BSF soldiers recited Ramayana at Tanot Mata Temple on the India-Pakistan border while in Sikar, members of the Muslim community showered flower petals at a rally taken out by Hindu devotees to mark the consecration ceremony.

In Karnal, Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that the pledge to build the Ram temple has been fulfilled. Sougandh hamari poori hui, mandir wahi banaya hai, he said.

Read Here | Ayodhya celebrations at Times Square: Indian diaspora celebrates Ram Mandir ceremony

To mark the event, people in Gujarat burst crackers, played Garba, and held prayer meetings in residential societies. Devotees thronged Jamnagars Bala Hanuman temple, known for its continuous recitation of Ram Dhuns for over 50 years, in large numbers while youngsters held rallies with saffron flags and chanted Jai Shree Ram.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee commenced the day by offering prayers at the Kalighat temple in south Kolkata. She then embarked on a symbolic journey of religious harmony and led an all-faith rally that included visits to diverse places of worship, such as a temple, mosque, church, and gurdwara. The opposition BJP had moved the Calcutta high court against this planned rally of the chief minister during the day, but in vain.

Artists in Odishas Berhampur crafted miniature replicas of the Ram Temple and Ram Lalla idol, using wood, chalks and stones. A massive procession by devotees was also taken out at Silk City.

Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the idol consecration ceremony is a historic moment and a matter of pride not only for the country, but for the entire world.

In Jharkhand, special prayers were organised at more than 51,000 temples across the state. A massive rangoli of Lord Ram measuring 18,500 sqft was inaugurated by Union tribal affairs and agriculture minister Arjun Munda on the premises of Sri Laxmi Narayan Temple at Cable Town in Golmuri in Jamshedpur.

Read Here | 10L diyas, laser show: Festival of lights gives Ayodhya ethereal look

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav attended the Bhasma aarti at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain and announced that he and his council of ministers will visit the Ram Temple this week. As many as 5,100 earthen lamps were lit at Ram Raja Sarkar Temple in Orchha, where former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan participated in a cleanliness drive.

Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde celebrated the consecration ceremony by playing dhol along with his party workers in Thane. Over a million laddoos were distributed in a function in Amravati. Today is a historic day for India. We have emerged from the shadows of slavery. This celebration is a testament to our unity and strength as nation, former deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said.

People across Andhra Pradesh celebrated the consecration ceremony by watching the rituals live on television, hoisting the saffron flag atop their homes, organising rallies, community banquets and other activities. In Tirumalas Dharmagiri Veda Vignana Peetham, a school for study and promotion of vedic knowledge, a recitation programme of Valmiki Ramayana was held in honour of the construction of the temple in Ayodhya.

In Karnataka, saffron festoons, flags with images of Ram, Hanuman, Sita and Lakshman and posters welcoming the arrival of Ram to his birth place dotted several nooks and corners in Karnataka. There was a huge turnout of devotees at Ram and Hanuman temples, besides Lord Venkateshwara temples, since morning. Special prayers were held in Bengaluru at Ramanjaneya Gudda temple, Pattabhirama Swamy Temple, Ram temple in Rajajinagar and Ramadevara Devasthana at Malleswaram and Ram temple in Basavanagudi.

Read Here: Ayodhya Ram Mandir could attract more tourists than Mecca, Vatican City combined, report states

Former chief minister and BJP leader BS Yediyurappa called the consecration ceremony a very auspicious moment that crores of people had been waiting for.

In Kerala, rituals at the Triprayar Sree Ramaswamy temple in Thrissur district were performed from early morning. Situated on the bank of the Karuvannur or Theevra river, it is dedicated to Lord Ram. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan offered prayers at the Ramadevi Temple in Vazhuthacaud in the state capital.

The historic day was celebrated in the northeast as well.

Temples and namghars (community prayer halls) were lit up with earthen lamps and lights in the evening even as processions were taken out across Assam through the day.

Arunachal Pradesh also soaked in religious fervour. In capital Itanagar, markets were closed voluntarily and a large number of private schools also declared a holiday.

Tripura chief minister Manik Saha performed yagna at Durga Bari Temple in Agartala and in Nagaland, governor La Ganesan offered prayers at a temple in Kohima.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Monday that the line demarcating religion and state in India seemed to be getting thinner and thinner, reacting to the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan reacts to the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. (PTI)

As our first Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru has often opined, Indian secularism means the separation of religion and state. We even have a strong tradition of maintaining that separation. However, of late, the line that demarcates religion and state seems to be getting thinner and thinner. This is a major departure from the times when our constitutional office bearers have been cautioned from taking part in religious events, as it would cast aspersions on our credentials as a secular state, the CM said in a statement.

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The chief minister, referring to the Ayodhya temples consecration ceremony, said it was being celebrated as a state event and thus exhorted the public to remain committed to the Constitutions secular credentials by declining to participate in it.

Read Here | Diyas, firecrackers: India celebrates 'Diwali' after Ram temple inauguration

Most of us have been invited to participate in the rituals, by the trust in charge of it. As those who have pledged to preserve and protect our Constitution, let us reaffirm our commitment to its secular character, by declining to participate in the event, upholding our Constitutional responsibilities, Vijayan, whose party the CPI(M) was one of the first to decline the invitation of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, underlined.

The Kerala CM stressed that religion is a private affair and that all persons in the country have the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion.

As those who have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution of India, we ought to ensure that every person within our territories enjoys this right in equal measure. At the same time, we cannot be promoting one religion above all others, or demean one religion beneath every other, he said.

Meanwhile, on a day the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the temple in Ayodhya amid much fanfare, several temples in Kerala witnessed special poojas and offerings and recitation of bhajans by devotees on Monday.

The chief priest of the Sree Rama temple in Thriprayar in Thrissur district, which was visited by PM Modi last week, said special offerings were made to the deity, and in the evening, over 1 lakh lamps will be lit in the temple premises.

Read Here: Did not prohibit Ram Temple celebrations, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin govt tells Madras HC

In the morning, inside the sanctum sanctorum, we arranged sampoorna ney vilakku (ghee lamps) along with offering paal payasam (a kind of sweet rice and milk pudding) to Lord Ram and avil nivedyam (an offering made of flattened rice) to Lord Hanuman. In the evening, there will be special deepalankaram in the temple premises with over 1 lakh lamps, said Ravi Namboothiri, the chief priest.

While Governor Arif Muhammad Khan witnessed the Ayodhya ceremony on a big screen at a temple in Thiruvananthapuram, state BJP chief K Surendran was present at the famous Ramapuram Sree Rama temple in Kottayam district.

The larger public of Kerala have dismissed the stand of the Congress and the Communists on the Ram temple. Both parties took the political stand asking people not to attend the ceremony or cooperate with it. It was unfortunate. But the devotees have rejected it, said Surendran.

Actor Unni Mukundan, whom the BJP is wooing ostensibly to contest on its ticket in the Lok Sabha elections this year, lit a lamp in front of a photograph of Lord Ram on the sets of a film on Monday.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday alleged that the Left is attempting to control the agenda of the Opposition's INDIA alliance and underscored that no one confronts the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as directly as she does. TMC leader and Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee.(HT photo/Samir Jana)

I suggested the name INDIA during the opposition bloc meeting. But whenever I attend the meeting, I find the Left trying to control it, the chief minister said, according to PTI. "This is not acceptable. I cannot agree with those with whom I had fought for 34 years."

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She added: Despite such insults, I have adjusted and attended the INDIA bloc meetings.



Mamata-led Trinamool Congress stormed to power for the first time in 2011, ending the 34-year-long rule of the Left Front government in West Bengal.

The chief minister made the remarks during an all-faith rally in Kolkata, aligning with the consecration ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The Trinamool Congress is a key member of the opposition INDIA alliance led by the Congress, along with the CPI (M)-led Left Front, Congress, and TMC collectively constitute the 28-party strong INDIA opposition bloc. However, in West Bengal, the CPI(M) and Congress have aligned against the TMC and BJP.

On Monday, without naming the Congress, she criticised the delay in seat-sharing discussions within the INDIA block regarding West Bengal.

"I have the power and mass base to take on the BJP and fight against them. But some people don't want to listen to us about seat sharing. If you don't want to fight the BJP, then at least don't give away seats to them," she said, according to PTI.

Further, without naming Rahul Gandhi, she spoke on the controversy over his visit to a shrine in Assam, asserting that just going to the temple is not enough.

How many politicians today took on the BJP head-on? Somebody went to one temple and thought it was sufficient, but it was not, the chief minister said, according to PTI.

She added: I am the only one who visited the temple, gurudwara, church, and mosque. I have been fighting for a long time. When the Babri Masjid issue (demolition) happened, and violence was taking place, I was on the streets.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday took a dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying it only talks about Lord Ram and Goddess Sita as the saffron party is anti-women. The TMC supremo's comments come on a day when the pran pratishtha' ceremony was held at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. (File)

They (BJP) talk about Lord Ram, but what about Goddess Sita? She was all along with Lord Ram during his exile. They don't speak about her as they are anti-women. We are worshippers of Goddess Durga, so they should not try to lecture us about religion, Banerjee said while addressing the TMC's all-faith rally in Kolkata.

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She further slammed the saffron over the consecration ceremony of Ram temple, saying, I don't believe in politicising religion ahead of elections. I am against such practice. I have no objection against those worshipping Lord Ram, but object to interference with the food habits of people.

The Trinamool Congress on Monday held the all-faith rally in Kolkata, aligning with the Ram temple consecration ceremony. During the foot march, she visited several places of worship representing different religions, including mosques, churches, and gurdwaras.

On Sunday, Banerjee, who had declined the invitation to attend the Ram temple event calling it a gimmick show before Lok Sabha polls, clarified that the rally is not to counter anyone.

"I am not doing this to counter anyone or protest anything. I have already said religion belongs to individuals but festivals are for all. On January 22, I will first offer prayers to Maa Kali and then lead the rally. It will touch temples, mosques, gurdwaras and churches along its route before reaching Park Circus where a meeting will be held," she said.

Ram temple consecration ceremony

The pran pratishtha of the Ram Mandir was held on Monday afternoon in the holy city of Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath attended the grand event with several other dignitaries including politicians, saints, and celebrities.

(With inputs from agencies)
Rohit Bhatiya is seated in a special enclosure in the Ram Temple complex. All around him are a plethora of guests from the worlds of sport, film, business and politics. But the 50-year-old from Makrana in Rajasthan isnt out of place. In front of him stands the magnificent structure of pink sandstone, white marble and granite that he helped build  the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. Prime Minister Narendra Modi showers flower petals on workers who were a part of the construction crew at the Ram Temple. (ANI)

It is the happiest moment of my life... I am looking at history that has been created for thousands of years, he said, marvelling at the product of nearly four years of work. He has been part of the process since 2022.

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Bhatiya is one of nearly 4,000 workers who worked to shape 2.1 million cubic feet of stone into the Ram Temple, where a 51-inch tall iron idol of Ram Lalla was consecrated on Monday morning.

Read Here | Our Ram has arrived: PM Modi gets emotional after Ayodhya temple pran pratishtha ceremony

Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged their efforts after completing the rituals inside the temples garbh griha, or sanctum sanctorum, showering petals on the 100 workers who were present at the event, wearing neon green safety jackets.

I was involved in carving and building the floors of the sanctum sanctorum and the throne of Ram Lalla, said Bhatiya.

The prime minister told us that the real credit of the temple work goes to us and that we will be remembered in history for thousands of years, he added.

Anubhai Sompura, supervised the temple construction workshop, known as the Ram Mandir Nirman Karyashala, for the last 30 years said he was blessed to see the temple in fruition.

Read Here | Diyas, firecrackers: India celebrates 'Diwali' after Ram temple inauguration

I think I am fortunate and was blessed by Lord Ram that I was able to see Ram Lallas grand temple, said the 70-year-old from Ahmedabad, who joined his compatriots at the event.

Rajnikant (who goes by a single name), an artisan from Surendra Nagar district in Gujarat, who was also part of the workshop, said he has been involved with the project for 15 years.

I am speechless, I cannot express my feelings, he said, his voice quivering.

Another artisan, Lakkhi, from Bharatpur district in Rajasthan, said his work had wrapped up five years ago, but returned to Ayodhya to make in time for the consecration.

I went back to my village, but returned a month back to witness such a great moment, said the 55-year-old.
Giving out a message of Hindu-Muslim unity, a Muslim woman who gave birth to a child on Monday named him Ram Rahim - on a day when the pran pratishtha ceremony was held at the Ram temple in the holy city of Ayodhya. The woman gave birth to the child in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad. Ram temple pran pratishtha took place between today 12:29:03pm and 12:30:35pm. (PTI)

According to Firozabad's district women hospital in-charge Dr Naveen Jain informed that both the child and the mother are doing well.

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The child's grandmother Husna Banu has named him Ram Rahim, he said, as quoted by news agency PTI.

Ram temple consecration ceremony

The much-awaited consecration ceremony or pran pratishtha of the Ram temple was held on Monday afternoon in Ayodhya in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, saints, and a host of distinguished guests.

During the pran pratishtha rituals, traditional clarinets played devotional music, while thousands clad in saffron danced in the streets, chanting religious slogans. After the rituals concluded, PM Modi, Yogi Adityanath, and UP governor performed 'parikrama' at the sanctum sanctorum of Ram Mandir.

The grand event marked a significant moment in India's cultural and religious history, drawing attention not only from the nation but also from global audiences.

PM Modi's address after pran pratishtha

After the consecration ceremony, PM Modi got emotional while addressing the crowd and said, Our Ram has arrivedLord Ram has finally arrived (in his abode) following the wait of centuries. After the patience that we showed for centuries and the sacrifices we made, our Lord Ram has finally arrived.

He also sought forgiveness from Lord Ram: There must be something lacking in our effort, sacrifice and penance that we could not do this work for so many centuries. Today, the work has been completed. I believe that Lord Ram will forgive us today.
Hours after taking charge as the new president of the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) on Sunday, Y S Sharmila, sister of YSR Congress party president and chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, announced a tour of the entire state to reach out to the people and to strengthen the party network. Y S Sharmila. (PTI)

According to a schedule announced by the APCC on Monday, Sharmila would begin her tour from Itchapuram in Srikakulam district on the borders of Odisha on Tuesday and end it at Idupulapaya in Kadapa district on January 31.

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She would tour two to three districts every day and cover the entire 25 districts during these nine days. On Tuesday, she would tour Srikakulam, Partvathipuram Manyam and Vizianagaram districts.

On January 24, she will visit Visakhapatnam, Alluri Sitaramaraju, Anakapalli districts followed by Kakinada, Dr. BR Ambedkar Konaseema and West Godavari Districts on January 25.

Sharmila will tour East Godavari, Eluru, NTR districts on January 26, followed by Krishna, Guntur and Palnadu districts on January 27 and Bapatla, Prakasam, Potti Sriramulu Nellore districts on January 28.

She will visit Tirupati, Chittoor, Annamaya districts on January 29, followed by Sri Sathya Sai, Ananthapuram, Kurnool districts on January 30 while on 31, she will tour Nandyala and Kadapa districts.

Apart from interacting with the people, Sharmila will review the party situation in each district, activate the party cadre and attract important Congress leaders, who have been staying away from the party for the last 10 years, back into the party, a senior Congress leader familiar with the development said.

Many senior leaders who were earlier associated with the Congress during the regime of Sharmilas father and former chief minister late Y S Rajasekhar Reddy are evincing interest in returning to the party. Sharmila is likely to interact with them during her tours, the leader quoted above said.

On Sunday, Mangalagiri MLA Alla Ramakrishna Reddy, who had resigned from the YSR Congress party in December, joined the Congress. Another YSRCP MLA from Rayadurgam in Anantapur district Kapu Ramachandra Reddy, who had met former APCC president N Raghuveera Reddy, is also expected to join the Congress, the party leader said.

Speaking to reporters after taking charge as the PCC president, Sharmila declared that the Congress would field candidates in all the 175 assembly constituencies and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies in the upcoming elections.

AICC in-charge of Andhra Pradesh affairs Manickam Tagore will start accepting applications from ticket aspirants from January 24, she said.

YSRCP general secretary and advisor to the state government (public affairs) Sajjala Rama Krishna Reddy said it was Jagan, not Sharmila, who had inherited the true legacy of YSR and had been implementing the welfare agenda initiated by his father.

It is unfortunate that the tone and tenor of Sharmilas speech has changed after taking over as the PCC president. In criticising her brother Jagan, she is only repeating what the TDP has been alleging all these days, Reddy said.

Another senior YSRCP leader Y V Subba Reddy, who happens to be uncle of Sharmila, said she had no locus standi in criticising the Jagan government, as she had just landed in Andhra Pradesh after winding up her party in Telangana.

Let her go round the state first and see what has been done during the Jagan regime. It is surprising that she has chosen the Congress as the platform, as it was the same party which had divided the combined Andhra Pradesh, included her fathers name in the charge-sheet against Jagan (in the alleged disproportionate assets case being probed by the CBI) and sent her brother to jail, Subba Reddy said.
YEREVAN, JUNE 22, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan has met with the countrys ambassadors to a number of states to discuss foreign policy issues and the situation in South Caucasus. The gathering was held in Vienna, Austria.

On January 20-21 in Vienna with participation of Armenian FM Ararat Mirzoyan, meeting of #Armenias Ambassadors accredited in European countries, USA & Canada as well as representatives in intl organizations took place, the Foreign Ministry said in a post on X. FMs remarks were followed by discussion on current situation in South Caucasus, efforts aimed at establishing stability, peace agenda, challenges as well as prospects for enhancement of ARM bilateral & multilateral agenda. Views were exchanged on intl & regional topics.
Ayodhya: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said the 500-year-old dream of the people of India of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, has come true. Speaking in the holy city after the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple, the BJP leader said it was for the first time in history that a major community had to struggle for so long to get their God his rightful place. Referring to the firing on 'kar sevaks' in 1990, he said now there won't be any curfews or firings in Ayodhya. Ayodhya: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath addresses a gathering after the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Mandir.(PTI)

Yogi Adityanath, who was present inside the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple during the consecration ceremony performed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said the entire India has become "Ayodhya Dham".

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Yogi Adityanath described Narendra Modi as the world's most popular leader.

17 people were killed in two separate shootings in Ayodhya in October 1990.

Remembering the event, he said so many people had sacrificed their lives for the temple.

"Probably it is the first occasion when a majority had to struggle for so long to get their Lord a rightful place in his birthplace," he said.

Yogi Adityanath also said the temple had been built where they wanted.

Also read: Muslim body reveals date for Ayodhya mosque construction, new crowdfunding plan

"The temple has been built where we had resolved to build it," he said.

"There are some feelings in my heart that I cannot find words to express. Everyone is emotional and happy. On this historic moment, every city and village in the country has turned into Ayodhya, and every path seems to be heading towards the Ram Janmabhoomi," said the UP CM.

The Supreme Court of India said in its 2019 verdict that there was evidence proving the existence of a Hindu place of worship at the dispute site. It ordered the authorities to allow the construction of the temple on the disputed site. It also directed the authorities to provide a separate parcel of land to the Muslim side for the construction of a mosque.
BHUBANESWAR: The Naveen Patnaik-led Odisha cabinet on Monday approved a special incentive package for the Sajjan Jindal-led conglomerate JSW Groups electric vehicle and component manufacturing projects in Naraj, Cuttack and Paradip, saying they involve a combined investment of 40,000 crore, hold the potential to create 11,000 jobs and usher in a new era of industrial growth and job creation in the state. A charging plug is seen on an electric vehicle (REUTERS FILE/REPRESENTATIVE IMAGE)

The JSW Groups proposed electric vehicles and battery manufacturing project at Naraj will be the worlds largest single-location project in the sector, the chief ministers office said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

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Odishas public enterprises minister Ashok Chandra Panda told reporters that the battery project will have a capacity of 50-gigawatt hour (GWh). The electric vehicles and component plant will be set up at the same location in two phases with an investment of 25,000 crore.

The group will also set up an EV components manufacturing complex comprising a copper smelter along with a lithium smelter near Paradip port in the third phase with a proposed investment of 15,000 crore in the state, generating employment for more than 7,000 people.

The government statement did not release the details of the special incentive package.

The group initially planned to enter the EV segment via JSW Energy in 2017, but the plan did not take off. In January 2023, it was reported that JSW group is looking to enter the manufacturing of electric vehicles in India.

The state cabinet also approved a proposal to expand the coffee plantation area from the current 10,000 acres to 1 lakh acres over the next 10 years. The scheme Coffee Plantation for Sustainable Livelihoods (CPSL) will be implemented in six tribal-dominated districts of the state such as Koraput, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Keonjhar and Gajapati with the involvement of women SHGs for raising coffee nurseries. Around Rs. 1144.00 crore will be spent till 2026-27 in this scheme.
NEW DELHI The high-level committee on one nation, one election led by former president Ram Nath Kovind chaired its third meeting on Sunday and discussed the feedback and suggestions received from several political parties and the public, the law ministry said. The panel discussed the feedback and suggestions received from several political parties and the public. (ANI)

Panel secretary Niten Chandra apprised the committee members about the various follow-up actions on decisions taken in the second meeting and during the intervening period, one of the officials in the ministry said.

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The committee, after its second formal meeting, in October 2023, had written to six national parties and 33 state parties and asked for their suggestions on the possibility of holding simultaneous polls.

Several opposition parties including the Congress, the Communist Party of India (CPI), the CPI(M), the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) wrote letters to the committees secretary Niten Chandra and opposed the idea of simultaneous elections.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge opposed the idea of simultaneous polls, underlining that the composition of the committee was highly biased, and urged Chandra to not allow his persona and the office of a former president to be abused by the Union government.

suggestions have been received from 17 political parties. Suggestions by the Election Commission of India were also noted by the committee during the meeting today, an official said.

Till January 15, the committee received more than 20,972 responses, of which 81% affirmed the idea of simultaneous elections, the law ministry said.

A member of the committee told HT that after evaluating the responses it appeared that the public was in favour of holding simultaneous polls.

HT had reported earlier that the committee was planning to submit its report, which is in the final stages, to the Union government before the upcoming Lok Sabha polls are announced.

The major task before the panel in finalising its report will be to include suggestions from various stakeholders, including the Election Commission (EC), prominent jurists such as former judges of constitutional courts, former chief election commissioners, various political parties, citizens and the report of the 22nd Law Commission, the official cited above said.

The Election commission had reportedly written to the government on Saturday and said that it would require an estimated 10,000 crore every 15 years to procure new Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) if simultaneous polls are held for Lok Sabha and state assemblies.

A consultation process has already been initiated by the committee, with its chairperson Kovind on Wednesday meeting Justice Munishwar Nath Bhandari, former chief justice of the Madras high court, in Delhi.

On January 18, Kovind and Chandra held discussions with Justice Gorla Rohini, the former chief justice of the Delhi high court, and Sushil Chandra, the former chief election commissioner of India, the official said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening lighted Ram Jyoti (earthern lamps) after the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla in the newly-built Ram Temple in Ayodhya.' Prime Minister Narendra Modi.(X/NarendraModi)

The prime minister has urged citizens to light the Ram Jyoti on the auspicious occasion and welcome Ram Lalla.

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On this auspicious occasion, I request all the countrymen to light the Ram Jyoti and welcome Lord Ram in their homes. Jai Siya Ram! the prime minister wrote on X.

After the consecration ceremony, the city of Ayodhya is poised to be adorned with the radiant glow of 10 lakh diyas, transforming its landscape into a mesmerising spectacle.

On the call of Prime Minister Narendra 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.

Earlier, Regional tourism officer RP Yadav said: On the evening of January 22, diyas will be lit at 100 prominent temples and public places. The preparations for this event have been completed. In line with the governments vision, locally crafted diyas will be used, and local potters are being engaged to provide the diyas.

The Ram Temple in Ayodhya



Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday presided over the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla inside the sanctorum of the newly constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The Ram temple delivers on a key 35-year-old promise by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), but it has been a contentious political issue that helped catapult the party to prominence and power.

Constructed in the traditional Nagara style, the Ram Temple has a length (east-west) of 380 feet, a width of 250 feet, and a height of 161 feet. Supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors, the temple is three-storied, with each floor being 20 feet tall.

The pillars and walls showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods and goddesses.
In the last part of his journey to Ayodhya to open the Ram Temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday prayed at the Kothandaramaswamy temple and visited Arichal Munai, starting point of the Ram Setu  a mythical bridge believed to be built for Lord Ram to travel to Sri Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana  before leaving Tamil Nadu after a two-day religious tour of the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Arichal Munai in Dhanushkodi on Sunday. (ANI)

In the past two days, Modi visited temples in Tamil Nadus Srirangam in Tiruchirappalli and Rameswaram in Ramanathapuram on his journey to religious landmarks where Lord Ram is believed to have stayed. Arisal Munai is the last point on the Indian mainland.

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Videos showed Modi on a chair by the beach, practising pranayama (breathing exercises). 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, Modi posted on X (previously Twitter).

The Kothandaramaswamy temple has idols of Ram, Lakshman, Sita, Hanuman and Vibhishana. Prayed at the iconic Kothandaramaswamy Temple. Felt extremely blessed, Modi said about the temple in Dhanushkodi.

The Prime Minister landed in Chennai on January 19 to inaugurate the Khelo India Youth Games and stayed in the Raj Bhavan that night before flying to Tiruchirappalli the next morning to begin his spiritual tour. On Saturday morning, he prayed at the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple in Srirangam, and took a chopper to Rameswaram to pray at the Sri Ramanathaswamy temple.

It is the connection between Sri Ram and Srirangam that made the Prime Minister start his spiritual journey in Tamil Nadu from this point, Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party vice-president Karu Nagarajan told HT.

It is said that Ram presented the Ranganathanar idol to Vibhishana. Modi spend more than an hour inside this temple. At Ramanathaswamy temple, he took a dip in the 22 sacred wells (theerthams) and in the ocean.

He has taken the holy water from here, which will be used during the ceremony in Ayodhya, Nagarajan said. The Prime Minister stayed at the Ramakrishna Math. The math members told us that he slept on the floor, Nagarajan said. When the Kamba Ramayana was being recited, he refused to sit on a chair and insisted he sit on the floor like anyone else.

On Sunday afternoon, Modi took a chopper from Madurai to leave the state. On Monday, he will attend the pran pratishtha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, where he will be the chief guest.
The violence in Manipur would have been controlled by the fourth day had there been a prime minister of the Congress, senior party leader Rahul Gandhi said on Sunday and attacked PM Narendra Modi for not visiting the northeastern state that has been in the grip of ethnic strife since May last year. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses supporters during 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', in Biswanath district of Assam on Sunday. (PTI)

Manipur has been burning for several months, but our prime minister hasnt 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, Gandhi said.

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The former Congress president was addressing a rally as part of his ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Nagaon district in Assam.

Even PM Modi can control the violence in Manipur within three days with the help of the army, but the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) does not want to do it, Gandhi claimed.

If the prime minister gives an order to the army, in three days they can stop it. But the BJP doesnt want to douse the fire. Thats why the PM doesnt go there and order the army to stop the violence, he alleged.

Manipur has been in the throes of ethnic violence since May 3 last year as clashes erupted between the numerically dominant Meiteis and the tribal Kukis, killing nearly 200 people. Due to the violence, over 50,000 people have fled their homes in the northeastern state.

More than half the states population of 3.2 million belongs to the Meitei community, while the Kuki community makes up about 43% and live mostly in the hills. The widespread ethnic violence has led to creation of community-based armed village defence volunteers as the fault lines have deepened beyond the Meitei-Kuki divide, pitting different communities and groups against each other.

The Congress leader had started the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from Thoubal district in Manipur on January 14 with a promise to bring peace and harmony back in the northeastern state. The yatra traversing through 15 states will conclude in Mumbai on March 20.
Member of Parliament (MP) Rahul Gandhi sang the devotional Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram song as he led a sit-in in Assams Nagaon on Monday after Congress leaders were prevented from entering Batadrava Than, a pilgrimage site associated with Assamese saint Srimanta Sankardev. Rahul Gandhi said maybe today only one person can go to a temple. (X)

Maybe, today, only one person can go to a temple in this country, Gandhi said, referring to the consecration ceremony of the idol of the infant god Ram, or Ram Lalla, in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is presiding over the ceremony.

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A large contingent of security forces stopped Gandhi and other Congress leaders, who are in Assam as part of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, when they arrived at Batadrava Than around 9am. Officials cited orders when Gandhi asked the security forces why he was not allowed in before he staged the sit-in singing the devotional song themed on Lord Ram, which was sung during Mahatma Gandhis meetings.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said local MP Gaurav Gogoi met Batadrava Than management on January 11 and sought permission for the visit. He added everything changed suddenly on Sunday. They are not even allowing an MP [Gogoi] from entering a temple [Batadrava Than] which falls under his constituency. Is this their democracy? Ramesh asked.

Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday asked the Congress leaders to avoid visiting Batadrava Than during the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. The Batadrava Than management later requested Gandhi to come after 3pm.

Sarma on Sunday said the state government would deploy commandos to control the situation if the Congress leaders tried to visit Batadrava Than. He claimed Gandhi was trying to instigate tensions on the day of the Ram Temple inauguration using the name of Assams legend Srimanta Sankardev.

Ramesh said that they just wanted to offer prayers. He [Srimanta Sankardev] was a great social reformer and his words are relevant even today. We did not come here to politicise religion like [the ruling] BJP [Bharatiya Janata Party] does, he said.

Ramesh said they were aware of the request to come after 3pm but it was not possible because of yatras schedule. At 3pm, we would be around 100 kilometres ahead. It was not possible to return. We do not understand why rules are different for us, he said.
Guwahati: Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he was stopped from visiting Assam's Batadrava Than, the birthplace of saint Srimanta Sankardeva. The incident took place a day after Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma advised him to visit the place after the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to avoid "unnecessary competition". Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses supporters during 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', in Biswanath district of Assam on Sunday. (PTI)

Gandhi, who is currently on the Assam leg of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, said he was stopped from visiting the place after being invited. He claimed the authorities haven't assigned any reasons for their move.

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"We are trying to go to the temple. We were invited and now they are telling us that we can't visit. We are not going to do anything forcibly. We have to do our yatra, we are asking them what is the reason? We are not going to disturb anybody. We have been invited there," he said.

In a video, Gandhi can be seen asking the police why he was being stopped.

"What is the issue brother? Can I go and see the barricades? What mistake have I made that I am not allowed inside the temple?," he added.

He later staged a dharna against the police's move.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Opening Ceremony: Full coverage

The management of the shrine had asked Gandhi to visit the temple after 3 pm because of the Pran Prathistha event.

Also read: Assam shrine asks Rahul Gandhi to visit after Ram Temple ceremony is over

Jogendra Narayan Dev Mahanta, the President of Batadrava Than management committee, said 10000 people were expected to visit the shrine.

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."

On Sunday, Sarma asked Gandhi not to visit the shrine.

"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.

Meanwhile, the Congress will today protest against stone-pelting on Jairam Ramesh's convoy in Assam.

"This is a matter that every Indian must take seriously because it exposes the BJP's fascism and hooliganism. All across India, PCCs and DCCs are instructed to hold large-scale protests tomorrow evening and expose how the Modi-led BJP is killing democracy in Assam through their corrupt CM," Congress leader KC Venugopal wrote on X.

With inputs from PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday threw open a magnificent new Ram Temple in Ayodhya, turning the page on arguably Indias most fractious dispute and fulfilling one of the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) core electoral promises in an event that could have a lasting impact on religion and politics in the country. Priests sit near the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya on Monday. (AFP)

Modi presided over the ceremony dedicated to the 51-inch black stone idol of the five-year-old god, or Ram Lalla, in front of a thousands-strong crowd comprising Indias most dignitaries from every walk of life. He then spent nearly 40 minutes delivering a rousing speech where he fused faith and governance, transforming the holy moment into a milestone for nation-building and laying a road map for the future course of India.

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22nd January 2024 is not a mere date, its the origin of a new kal chakra (era) We have to expand our consciousness from dev to desh, Ram to rashtra  from deity to nation, he said.

Carrying a silver chattra,or umbrella, for the deity, Modi cantered up 32 steps to enter the temple around 12.10pm on a crisp chilly day with the winter sun shining down on the 8,000-odd guests comprising top industrialists, sportspersons, politicians, film stars, writers and journalists, and ascetics.

Ram temple inauguration: BJP unleashes momentum for battle ahead

He walked through five halls, or mandaps,decorated with yellow and saffron marigold flowers, as chants of Jai Shri Ram coursed through the crowd like a Mexican Wave. Dressed in a cream kurta paired with a dhoti and patka, he took the pledgefor the consecration ceremony and later offered the first prayers to the deity.

This is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram. Lord Ram is Indias faith, foundation, idea, law, consciousness, thinking, prestige and glory, he said as the crowd broke into applause.

Built in the traditional Nagara style of architecture with intricate carvings of deities adorning its white marble walls, the temple spans 380 feet in length and 250 feet in width, with its tallest spire at 161 feet. Supported by 392 columns and accessible through 44 doors, the temple is built on the 2.77 acre plot which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram and which was locked away behind the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute for 150 years, before the Supreme Courts landmark verdict in 2019.

Our Ram is finally here he will no longer live in a tent, Modi said, referring to the makeshift temple where pilgrims offered prayers to the infant deity as rival claims over the main site were litigated in the courts after the 1992 razing of the Babri Masjid.

Most opposition parties stayed away from the event, blaming the BJP and Modi of hijacking the event and blurring the line between religion and governance.

Read Here | Diyas, firecrackers: India celebrates 'Diwali' after Ram temple inauguration

Siyaram (Sita-Ram) reside in those hearts who honour tradition, ethics and dignity, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav posted on X after the consecration event.

The opening of the temple is expected to catapult Ayodhya to one of the focal nodes of the Hindu faith, and draw hundreds of thousands of devotees every year. In anticipation of the influx of pilgrims to easily the largest temple to Ram in India, the authorities have spruced up the centuries-old town, pouring in 30,508 crore to implement a sweeping facelift.

It marks an extraordinary triumph for Hindu groups, which have long argued that the site is the birthplace of Lord Ram and see the opening of the temple as a civilisational moment. It is also an important victory for the BJP, which has included the construction of the Ram Temple as one of its core promises in its election manifesto for three decades; the temple will almost certainly figure as one of the partys top achievements in the narrative for the 2024 general elections.

The serene 40-minute ceremony on Monday was in stark contrast to the tension and bloodshed that the plot came to be associated with over the last century, and the thousands who died in the riots that followed the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992. Modi made a reference to the concerns around communal conflagration in his speech, but proceeded to dismiss the speculation as overblown assumptions.

Ram is not fire, he is energy, he is not conflict but solution. Ram does not belong only to us but to all, Ram is not just present but is infinity, Modi said.

Read Here: PM Modi lights 'Ram Jyoti' after Ayodhya Ram Temple 'pran pratishtha' ceremony

The ceremony, also attended by one of the original litigants in the title suit, signalled the beginning of a new chapter for Ayodhya and the lives of its residents.

For us the dispute was over the day when the Supreme Court ruled in favour of the temple in 2019. Its good that the Ram Temple has come up and this will bring additional focus on the temple town and hopefully better fortunes too, said Ansari, whose father Hashim Ansari was the oldest litigant of the case.

Modi performed the final leg of weeklong Vedic rituals by symbolically opening the eyes of the idol with a golden stick, chanting holy verses before placing flower petals at the feet of the deity and joining his palms in prayer. He then prostrated himself before the deity and circled a sacred flame. The 51-inch idol adorned a golden crown, golden ornaments, and a golden bow and arrow.

Outside, a military helicopter showered petals on the temple and the audience. Traditional clarinets played devotional music as thousands clad in saffron danced in the streets outside, waving saffron flags and bursting firecrackers.

Jai Shri Ram, ho gaya kaam (hail lord Ram, the work has been accomplished), Saurabh Shukla, a student of Saket College in Ayodhya shouted joyously and said he would like to be among the first few to visit the grand temple when it opens for all on Tuesday.

Ram Temple inauguration: Parents of babies born on propitious day overjoyed

Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel, chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat were present when the PM reached sanctum sanctorum. Bhagwat was seated next to Modi during the ceremony and performed some rites alongside him.

Before the PMs address, he accepted two spoons full of charnamrit, to break his 11-day fast, from Govind Dev Giri, the treasurer of the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which is overseeing the construction of the temple. Later in the day, he went to Kuber Tila and worshipped Lord Shiva at a restored temple.

As evening fell, the shimmering lights from around one million earthen lamps lit up Ayodhya in a golden hue. Across the country, people came out of their homes to light lamps to mark the consecration ceremony, led by PM Modi.

Its a momentous occasion as dreams of several generations have come true and we hope that the temple will also bring about a change in our fortunes as well, said Arvind Dubey, who sells construction material near Karsewakpuram, an area purchased by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and named after temple volunteers who were killed in the police firing of 1990.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday presided over the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of the idol of Ram Lalla inside the sanctorum of the newly constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.(Reuters)

Modi took part in the 'pran pratishtha' rituals in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. Follow live updates of the Ram Temple conservation ceremony.

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Modi, who led the rituals and unveiled the eyes of Ram Lalla idol, walked inside the temple premises with a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta. He also offered a 'dandavat pranam' to Lord Ram at the new Ayodhya temple after the consecration ceremony.

From the sanctum sanctorum, the prime minister headed to address a gathering of about 8,000, which included seers, people linked to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and celebrities.

Here's what Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his address after presiding over the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya Ram Mandir:
YEREVAN, JANUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Sunday ended his U.S. presidential campaign and endorsed former President Donald Trump, The Washington Post reports.

His exit came just two days before voting in New Hampshires primary, where Trump appears to be closing in on another victory that would underscore his unrivaled grip on the GOP.

DeSantis, 45, had seemed to many Republicans like the most viable challenger to Trump after the 2022 midterms, when the governor won reelection by a landslide. But he started to lose ground in polling even before his official campaign launch in May  via a glitchy live chat that neatly embodied the way his grand plans were going awry.

Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, DeSantis said in a video message he posted Sunday afternoon on the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. They watched his presidency get stymied by relentless resistance, and they see Democrats using lawfare to this day to attack him. He acknowledged disagreements with Trump  he spent the past year effectively calling Trump self-absorbed and ineffective  but suggested Trumps remaining GOP rival, Nikki Haley, was worse.

Trumps campaign said in a statement it was honored by DeSantiss endorsement and said it is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump against Biden.
As the much-anticipated pran pratishtha or consecration ceremony of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya draws near, Indians living in the United States and other countries have started celebrating with much fanfare, showcasing their unbridled enthusiasm and reverence for this occasion. Times Square in New York echoes with bhajans in celebrations of Ram Lalla's Pran Pratishtha.

Ayodhya is all set to welcome Lord Ram with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to participate in the consecration ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir on Monday, January 22. Follow Live Updates on Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha

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In New York, the Indian diaspora illuminated Times Square with large Lord Ram's images. Almost a dozen events are planned across the United States to celebrate the Ram mandir pran pratishtha ceremony. News agency ANI reported that there are events lined up in Washington, DC, Los Angeles and San Francisco that will happen at the same time as the ceremony in India takes place.

The billboards have gone up in Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia, among other states. Additionally, Arizona and the State of Missouri are set to join this visual celebration, which began on January 15, said the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), American chapter.

The VHP, in association with Hindus from across the US, has put up over 40 billboards in 10 states and more, displaying the message around the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the birthplace of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

To commemorate the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Hindu-American community across the US has organised several car rallies and has planned many more events in the run-up to the grand event.

Also Read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration: Full schedule of temple pran-pratishtha ceremony today

"Today, there are no words to say. The pain of 25 generations, challenges, struggle, sacrifices and their conclusion into Ram Mandir and Lord Ram's pran pratishthait is a wonderful day today," Alok Kumar, international working president of VHP, told news agency PTI.

The temple town of Ayodhya is all set to welcome Lord Ram with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to participate in the consecration ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir on Monday.

The 'pran pratishtha' of the Ram Lalla idol -- the childhood form of Lord Ram -- will be attended by people from all walks of life, including representatives of major spiritual and religious leaders of the country, representatives of various tribal communities and other dignitaries.

In Mauritius, the Indian diaspora is lit 'diyas' at temples and recited Ramayan Path. They are preparing to light a 'diya' each at all the temples of Mauritius. The symbolic gesture aims to create a luminous tapestry across the island nation, reflecting shared reverence for Lord Ram.

The Mauritian government has announced a two-hour special break for Hindu public officers on January 22.

The United Kingdom is also witnessing vibrant celebrations as temples gear up for the mega event in Ayodhya. Slough Hindu Temple is brimming with enthusiasm as it is set to celebrate the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. There are around 250 Hindu temples in the UK.

The Indian diaspora in the UK also organised a car rally in London. During the rally, the participants chanted slogans of 'Jai Shri Ram' and played songs in praise of Lord Rama.

In Australia, amid the growing excitement and anticipation over the Ram temple event, a series of events have been planned across hundreds of temples.

In Sydney, the Indian diaspora celebrated the occasion by organising a car rally on Saturday. In the event, over 100 cars participated, attracting hundreds of 'Ram Bhakts' and passersby in the neighbourhood.

The Janakpurdham in Nepal, the maternal home of Goddess Sita is now brimming with 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. The Janaki temple is decked up with lights.

(With inputs from agencies)
The Supreme Court on Monday permitted NewsClick human resources department head Amit Chakraborty, who has turned approver before the trial court, to withdraw his plea challenging the Delhi police action to arrest him in a case under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) even as it agreed to take up the petition filed by NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha on January 30. The Supreme Court of India. (File Photo)

A bench headed by justice BR Gavai passed the order after Chakrabortys lawyer informed the court that Chakraborty has turned an approver in the case, and he would like to withdraw his petition filed in the top court in October last year. He was arrested along with Purkayastha on October 3 on charges of receiving foreign funds through Chinese firms with an aim to compromise the countrys stability and integrity.

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Additional solicitor general (ASG) SV Raju appearing for the Delhi police said, As far as petitioner (Amit Chakraborty) is concerned, if he wants to withdraw, let him withdraw. As far as the other matter (about Purkayastha) is concerned, it must be re-heard.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for Purkayastha requested that his matter be taken up at the earliest as his 73-year-old client has been in jail for over three months.

The bench, also comprising justices Sanjay Karol and Sandeep Mehta, adjourned the matter to January 30.

Purkayastha had approached the top court against dismissal of his regular bail petition by the Delhi high court on October 13 last year.

Before the high court, the police argued that the accused (both Purkayastha and Chakraborty) are an extended limb of Chinese espionage. Chakravarty had on the previous hearings told the top court that he holds less than 1% stake in the company and is physically disabled below the waist.

The first information report (FIR) registered by the police alleged that the accused conspired with a group called Peoples Alliance for Democracy and Secularism to sabotage the 2019 general elections. The police claimed that the money was routed into the portal by Chinese firms Xiaomi and Vivo with the aid of shell companies.
The Supreme Court on Monday issued a notice on a petition filed by the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction challenging the Maharashtra Speakers order holding the Eknath Shinde faction as the real Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.(File)

The top court will hear the matter after two weeks.

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Both factions of the Shiv Sena have legally challenged the Maharashtra assembly speaker Rahul Narwekars recent verdict in a batch of petitions seeking the disqualification of rival camps legislators under the anti-defection law.

While the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction moved the Supreme Court against Narwekar declaring as the real political party the bloc headed by chief minister Eknath Shinde, the latter challenged the speakers decision to not disqualify 14 Shiv Sena (UBT) legislators before the Bombay high court.

On January 10, Narwekar ruled that Eknath Shindes party was the real Shiv Sena and turned down demands to disqualify either factions lawmakers, marking a significant victory for the ruling coalition in the fractious battle for control of the regional outfit.

In its filed by through its chief whip Sunil Prabhu in the apex court, the faction led by Thackeray has described the speakers January 10 verdict as a colourable exercise of power based on extraneous and irrelevant considerations.

On the other hand, Bharat Gogavale, the chief whip of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, filed petitions in the high court on January 12, challenging the legality, propriety and correctness of the verdict and sought the court to declare the ruling as bad in law, quash it and disqualify all 14 MLAs of the Shiv Sena (UBT) from the state assembly.

The finding that the group which enjoyed the support of a majority of legislators represented the political party effectively amounts to bringing back the concept of split under the erstwhile para 3 of the Tenth Schedule [of the Constitution], which had been consciously omitted from the Tenth Schedule, the petition filed by the Thackeray faction said.
Belagavi The Belagavi-based Brasthachar Nirmulan Pariwar, an anti-corruption committee, has taken the disproportionate assets case against Abhay Patil, BJP MLA from Belgaum South constituency, to the Supreme Court. (@iamabhaypatil/ X)

The Supreme Court has issued notices over a disproportionate assets case against Abhay Patil, BJP MLA from Belgaum South constituency, people familiar with the matter said

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A Supreme Court bench, consisting of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, issued the notices to Karnataka assembly speaker UT Khader, MLA Abhay Patil, and Bengaluru Lokayukta, asking them to respond within four weeks.

The next hearing is scheduled for February 19.

The Belagavi-based Brasthachar Nirmulan Pariwar, an anti-corruption committee, has taken the matter to the Supreme Court, according to Sujit Mulagund, the organisations convenor.

I filed a suit with the apex court against BJP legislator Abhay Patil. The case was brought before the board on January 19 and the second hearing has been postponed to February 19, 2024, citing the cases merit. Mulagund said.

In his lawsuit, Mulagund alleged that MLA Patil, during his initial election to the state assembly in 2003, declared total assets of around 40 lakh in the affidavit filed for candidacy. This figure increased to around 75 lakh in the 2008 election. Suspecting that Patil had earned an additional 35 lakh illegally between 2003 and 2008, Mulagund filed a complaint with the Special Belagavi Lokayukta Court on November 19, 2012, under Section 200 CrPC.

Due to the slow progress of the investigation, he approached the Lokayukta Court in Bengaluru, which directed its Belagavi branch to expedite the inquiry.

Despite the order from the Bengaluru Lokayukta court, its Belagavi court intentionally continued delaying to help the accused, he said.

MLA Patil lost the 2013 election to the late Sambhaji Patil, who secured victory with the support of the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samiti (MES).

Before Lokayukta was abolished in 2015, Deputy SP Karunakar Shetty, who was investigating the case, observed that Patils property had increased by 346.73 times the 40 lakh reported in 2003.

However, the report went unattended. Frustrated with Lokayukta, Mulagund filed a suit with the Karnataka High Court at Dharwad, which dismissed the case on January 15, 2023, on technical grounds. Mulagund then approached the Supreme Court, filing a suit with relevant documents on January 8, 2024.

MLA Patil dismissed the case as lacking substance and being intentionally framed to mentally harass him and defame his familys image. Neither the Lokayukta nor the High Court bench entertained the petition, as it was not reliable. It was tabled without relevant material evidence, and no suit filing procedure was followed. The complainant is just seeking attention and has taken the matter to the Supreme Court, which, like the High Court, would also have it quashed there, MLA Patil said.

About his increased assets after becoming the legislator in 2003, he said he has earned the property legally and is also paying taxes regularly to the government. Buying property legally and investing in shares, businesses, etc., is not wrong, he said. Our family has been affluent from the beginning and involved in several businesses. We have agriculture fields and rice polishing mills, which have contributed to our success in business, Patil said.
The Supreme Court on Monday pulled up the Tamil Nadu government for some general orders reportedly issued by police to restrict the live-streaming of the Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha (consecration) ceremony and performing religious activities, calling these orders atrocious and directing the state not to summarily deny such permissions. The court said that the permission cant be rejected on the sole ground that other communities are living in the locality. (Representative file image)

Admitting a public interest litigation (PIL) that alleged a blanket ban on the live-streaming of the consecration ceremony as well as religious rituals and processions, the top court held that the state government must pass speaking orders whenever such requests are made and that any oral or general orders purportedly issued by police cannot be acted upon.

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We believe and trust that the authorities will act in accordance with law and not on the oral instructions... The authorities will examine application seeking permission for such live-telecast and deal with it in accordance with law. If rejected, then reasons shall be given for rejection of any such requests, the court recorded in its order, acting on the petition filed by BJPs state unit secretary Vinoj P Selvam.

Also Read: Ram Rajya will begin today: Chief priest on Ayodhya temple pran pratishtha

During the hearing, senior counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu, representing the BJP functionary, adduced some orders issued by police that he said put curbs on the live-streaming and other religious functions at the occasion of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhyas Ram Janmabhoomi Temple.

A political party hates religion. That party comes to power. It now wants the government to hate religion too, said Naidu, attacking the DMK.

Supporting the plea, solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Union government, said that LED screenings in temples are being stopped in the state.

A strong message must go from the highest court of the country to the state government that the Constitution of India still governs the nation, and that it applies to the state of Tamil Nadu also, said the law officer, adding nobody can be prevented from performing religious rituals.

At this juncture, Tamil Nadus additional advocate general (AAG) Amit Anand Tiwari appeared, countering the allegations.

My instructions are that there are no restrictions in place. This is a politically motivated petition, the senior counsel contended.

The bench, however, expressed its displeasure upon perusal of the orders adduced by Naidu, who pointed that the only reason for the denial was that minority communities reside near the place for which permissions were being sought.

What kind of reasons are given for rejection? Can this be a reason that a particular community is in minority, so you wont allow the procession? Can a reason be given that Hindus are a minority at some place so you will not allow? These reasons are atrocious. If this reason has to follow, no procession or ritual can happen across the state, the bench told Tiwari.

It asked the AAG to ascertain that no request is rejected because of such reasons.

That is why we asked directed you to maintain data. We will know how many permissions were granted and how many were refused and the reasons, the bench added.

Tiwari responded that they may ask for a permission of a live-telecast and other religious activities in front of a mosque. He added that the state will take decisions in accordance with law.

Fixing the hearing on January 29, the bench retorted, You have all the powers, regulate it then... We want to know the reason. If this is the reason, you will be in problem.

Selvams petition, filed through advocate G Balaji, stated that the DMK-government in the southern state has banned live-telecast of the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu.

The government has also banned all kinds of poojas, Archana and Annadanam (poor feeding) bhajans on this auspicious occasion. Such arbitrary exercise of power by the state government (through police officials) per se violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, it added.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde and 38 other Shiv Sena legislators of his camp on a petition filed by the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) group, challenging the Maharashtra assembly speakers decision to dismiss the disqualification petitions against Shinde and the MLAs that supported him during the rebellion in 2022 and holding the CMs faction to be the real Shiv Sena. Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde has been told to respond to a petition by the Uddhav Thackeray camp against the speakers January 10 ruling (HT FILE PHOTO/Bhushan Koyande)

A bench, led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, issued notices to all the 39 MLAs against whom the disqualification petitions had been filed by the Thackeray camp under the anti-defection law for defying the party whip in the House for the election of the speaker and the floor test in 2022.

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The bench, which also comprised justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, will take up the matter again after two weeks.

The Shiv Sena suffered a vertical split in June 2022 when Eknath Shinde and 38 other legislators joined hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to form the government. The rebellion brought down the then Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government.

During the brief hearing on Monday, the court asked senior counsel Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who represented the UBT group, why they did not approach the high court in the first instance.

Responding, the senior lawyers pointed out that the term of the present assembly would perhaps be over by the time the high court decides their plea. The polls in the state are expected in October 2024.

We are arguing on the breach of the judgment of this court...asking for an interpretation of the judgment of this court. Which other court can be in a better position to decide? Our request is that this court should only hear and decide, Sibal submitted.

Agreeing, the bench issued notice on the petition filed by Thackeray factions chip whip and legislator Sunil Prabhu and fixed the hearing after two weeks.

In the petition filed through Sunil Prabhu, the UBT group called assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekars January 10 order a colourable exercise of power based on extraneous and irrelevant considerations. It added that its conclusion was erroneous and went against the anti-defection law and the top courts judgment of May last year directing the Speaker not to solely base its decision on the group possessing majority in the House by distinguishing between legislative party and political party.

The Speaker by relying upon the legislative majority to determine who the political party is has conflated the concepts of legislature party and political party which is in direct violation of the law laid down by this court in Subash Desai judgment (in May 2022) that political party and legislature party cannot be conflated, said Prabhus petition.

The finding that the group, which enjoyed support of a majority of legislators, represented the political party effectively amounts to bringing back the concept of split under the erstwhile para 3 of the Tenth Schedule, which had been consciously omitted from the Tenth Schedule (anti-defection law), it added.

The petition named Shinde as the sole respondent without making Speaker or the rebel MLAs as parties to the petition.

By its judgment on May 11, a constitution bench invalidated the Maharashtra governors decision asking then CM Thackeray to face a floor test last year and flagged a flurry of errors during the political drama that toppled the MVA government, but refused to put Thackeray back in the saddle because he voluntarily resigned instead of facing the trust vote in the assembly.

At the time, the court left it for Narwekar to decide the disqualification petitions pending against both Shinde and Thackeray groups, rejecting the Thackeray camps plea that the court should decide the disqualification petitions by itself because of the alleged bias of the BJP leader. By a separate decision on February 17, 2022, the Election Commission ruled that Shindes faction will inherit the Shiv Sena partys name and its bow-and-arrow symbol.

Later, Prabhu approached the court again, complaining against the delay by Narwekar in deciding the disqualification petitions against the 39 rebel Sena MLAs, including Shinde.

Hearing Prabhus plea on October 13, the bench pulled up Narwekar, commenting that he reduced the adjudication of the disqualification petitions to a charade, adding that the speaker could not defeat the orders of the apex court by delaying his decision.

Emphasising that the sanctity of the anti-defection law must be maintained, the court on October 30 directed Narwekar to decide the disqualification petitions by December 31. This deadline was extended by another 10 days by the top court on December 15 following a request from Narwekar.

On October 30, the bench also set a deadline for another politically sensitive case in Maharashtra - the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) fissures that added a new party, and deputy chief minister, to the ruling coalition last year. It asked Narwekar to decide by January 31 the disqualification petitions filed by the Sharad Pawar camp against 40 MLAs of the breakaway faction, led by Ajit Pawar, for anti-party activities. These petitions were filed in July after Ajit Pawar split the party and joined the coalition government in the state as deputy chief minister. Sharad Pawar loyalist Jayant Patil had moved the top court in September last, seeking a directive to Narwekar for time-bound disposal of the disqualification petitions filed against Ajit Pawar and the MLAs backing him.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu on Sunday refuted Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharamans allegation that the state government has banned special pujas related to the Ram temple inauguration in Ayodhya. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman posted a series of tweets on X with a clipping of Tamil newspaper Dinamalar. (Bloomberg)

Sitharaman posted a series of tweets on X with a clipping of Tamil newspaper Dinamalar, alleging that the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam government has banned watching the live telecast of the pran pratishtha (consecration) of the Ram temple on January 22.

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She alleged that oral orders were issued by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department to temple authorities not to allow any pooja in the name of 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, Sitharaman said on X. They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action.

HR&CE minister P K Sekar Babu strongly refuted the allegation. The HR&CE department has not imposed any ban on devotees to organise special poojas, annadanam, or distribute prasadam in the name of Lord Ram, Babu said. Rumours were being spread to divert peoples attention from the DMKs youth wing conference being held in Salem on Sunday, he added.

Sitharamans claim came hours after Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party president K Annamalai alleged that the state government is scuttling plans by devotees to organise special poojas in temples across the state. On Sunday, the DMK youth wing conference passed a resolution, accusing the national party of using the Ram temple opening as a political gimmick and saying that it is the saffron outfit which is anti-Hindu.

On Friday,DMK youth wing secretary Udhayanidhi Stalin had said they were not against peoples faith but the partys opposition is against the demolition of the Babri Masjid, and that they dont want to mix politics and religion.
The Supreme Court on Monday pulled up the Tamil Nadu government for general orders reportedly issued by the state police to restrict the live-streaming of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony and performing related religious activities, calling these orders atrocious and directing the state not to summarily deny such permissions. A plea alleged a blanket ban on the live-streaming of temple ceremony as well as religious rituals and processions. (HT file)

Admitting a public interest litigation that alleged a blanket ban on the live-streaming of the consecration ceremony as well as religious rituals and processions, the top court held that the state government must pass speaking orders whenever such requests are made and that any oral or general orders purportedly issued by police cannot be acted upon.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

We believe and trust that the authorities will act in accordance with law and not on the oral instructions...The authorities will examine application seeking permission for such live-telecast and deal with it in accordance with law. If rejected, then reasons shall be given for rejection of any such requests, the bench comprising justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Dattarecorded in its order, acting on the petition filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s state unit secretary Vinoj P Selvam.

During the hearing, senior counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu, representing the BJP functionary, adduced some orders issued by police that he said put curbs on the live-streaming and other religious functions to celebrate the consecration ceremony in Ayodhyas Ram Temple. A political party hates religion. That party comes to power. It now wants the government to hate religion too, said Naidu, attacking the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in the state.

Read Here: Did not prohibit Ram Temple celebrations, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin govt tells Madras HC

Supporting the plea, solicitor general Tushar Mehta, who appeared for the Union government, said that LED screenings in temples are being stopped in the state. A strong message must go from the highest court of the country to the state government that the Constitution of India still governs the nation, and that it applies to the state of Tamil Nadu also, said the law officer, adding nobody can be prevented from performing religious rituals.

At this juncture, Tamil Nadus additional advocate general (AAG) Amit Anand Tiwari appeared, countering the allegations. My instructions are that there are no restrictions in place. This is a politically motivated petition, the senior counsel contended.

The bench, however, expressed its displeasure upon perusal of the orders adduced by Naidu, who pointed that the only reason for the denial was that minority communities reside near the place for which permissions for the live-telecast of the consecration ceremony and other rituals were being sought.

What kind of reasons are given for rejection? Can this be a reason that a particular community is in minority so you wont allow the procession? Can a reason be given that Hindus are a minority at some place so you will not allow? These reasons are atrocious. If this reason has to follow, no procession or ritual can happen across the state, the bench told Tiwari.

Read Here | Ram Lalla rises: PM Modi inaugurates Ram Temple in Ayodhya

It asked the AAG to ascertain that no request is rejected because of such reasons. That is why we directed you to maintain data. We will know how many permissions were granted and how many were refused and the reasons...Do not prevent only on the ground that A or B community is there, the bench added.

Tiwari responded that they may ask for permission for live-telecast and other religious activities in front of a mosque. He added that the state will take decisions in accordance with law.

Fixing the hearing on January 29, the bench retorted: You have all the powers, regulate it then...We want to know the reason. If this is the reason, you will be in problem.

Selvams petition, filed through advocate G Balaji, said the DMK-government in the southern state has banned live-telecast of the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across Tamil Nadu.

The government has also banned all kinds of poojas, Archana and Annadanam (poor feeding) bhajans on this auspicious occasion. Such arbitrary exercise of power by the state government (through police officials) per se violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, it added.

Read Here | Diyas, firecrackers: India celebrates 'Diwali' after Ram temple inauguration

Reacting to allegations that the Tamil Nadu government has been attempting to block the live-telecast of the Ram Temple event in Ayodhya, Union minister and BJP leader Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday called chief minister MK Stalins DMK a Hindu-hating party, adding the ruling party is showing personal hatred for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Tamil Nadu police are being misused by the government of Tamil Nadu...They are being misused by Hindu-hating DMK...Can any citizen be denied to watch the Prime Minister? The DMK is showing its personal hatred for the Prime Minister, Sitharaman was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

On Sunday, Sitharaman alleged that the Tamil Nadu police were stopping privately held temples from organising events commemorating the Ram Temple event.

Hitting back, the Tamil Nadu government said the BJP is propagating erroneous information to divert peoples attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem.

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department hasnt imposed any limitations on devotees freedom to offer food, conduct poojas in the name of Shri Ram, or provide prasad in Tamil Nadu temples, PK Sekar Babu, the minister of Hindu religious and charitable endowments, Tamil Nadu, responded to Sitharamans post on X.
The Supreme Court on Monday put in abeyance a Himachal high court order that stayed the Gaggal airport expansion project in Kangra district, observing that its effect of was to bring the entire project to a standstill despite the state governments categorical assurance regarding a relief and rehabilitation process. The next date of hearing will take place on February 29. (Representative file photo)

A bench, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, stayed the January 9 order issued by the high court while taking cognisance of an assurance of the state advocate general that nobody will be dispossessed, nor will there be any demolition during the execution of the expansion project.

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Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, representing the state government, further assured the top court that the state was contemplating a fresh techno-economic feasibility study and that the high court order had instead brought the entire project to a standstill.

Also Read: 11 women, 34 first-gen lawyers among 56 designated as senior advocates by SC

Issue notice. Pending further orders of the court, there will be a stay of the order issued by the high court on January 9. This will, however, not preclude the high court from hearing the writ petition on merits, the bench, which also included justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, said in its order.

During the brief hearing of the appeal filed by the state government, the bench also heard the counsel fot the writ petitioner before the high court, Gaggal Airport Expansion Affected Society Welfare Committee. The committees lawyer pointed out that there were issues of money that the state needed to complete the expansion project, besides the fact that it was a seismic zone.
Hours before the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram Janmabhoomi Temple at Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed saints and religious leaders who have arrived at the holy city for the grand event. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath (HT_PRINT)

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"Hearty welcome and greetings to the revered saints and religious leaders coming from all over the country and the world for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the new idol of Shri Ram Lalla in the Prabhu Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple located in Shri Ayodhya Dham. Your dignified presence in Shri Ayodhya Dham will further strengthen our commitment towards 'Ramrajya'," the Chief Minister said in a post on 'X' on Monday.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey shared a picture of a blanket depicting Lord Ram's coat made by the weavers of Kashmir. Lauding the Prime Minister, Dubey said that PM Modi brought an end to the 550 years of sacrifice and penance by our ancestors.

"Honorable Prime Minister Modi ji brought an end to the 550 years of sacrifice and penance of our ancestors. Today on this occasion, all day long, with Ram Darbar chadar, specially made by the weavers of Kashmir. Vocal for local," Dubey said in a post on 'X'.

The historic ritual of 'Pran Pratistha' of Ram Lalla will take place in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saints, and a host of distinguished guests.

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust announced on Sunday that the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony will be marked by a dazzling musical event titled 'Mangal Dhwani'.

The soiree, featuring some of the biggest names in the world of music, will be staged at 10 am.

The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Temple will be held at 12:30 pm.

Ayodhya has been decked up with posters and flags of Lord Ram while cities across the country have been decorated with lights, huge cutouts of Lord Ram and posters bearing religious slogans related to Lord Ram.

The Central Government announced on Thursday that all its offices will be closed for half a day on January 22.

Many states have announced a holiday for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Tripura, Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are among them.

In Delhi, LG VK Saxena on Saturday approved the closure of government offices and educational institutions for half day till 2:30 PM on January 22.

The Uttar Pradesh government has tightened security in the city by setting up a dial 112 monitoring centre at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk.

Uttar Pradesh Police Department authorities said on Sunday that over 13 thousand security personnel have been deployed in and around Ayodhya to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the mega temple event. (ANI)
An Aussie woman has opened up about the incredibly painful moment electricity shot though her body as she was taking a dip in the ocean while on holiday.

Zoe Cahill, a yoga instructor who has been teaching and travelling in Southeast Asia, said she was on a solo trip on the island of Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand, when she went for a swim on Zen Beach.

I thought I saw what looked like little bits of plastic in the ocean and within seconds this jellyfish stung me, she recalled.

Zoe Cahill, an Aussie yoga instructor was holidaying on the island of Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand, when she says she was stung by a box jellyfish. Source: Instagram/9News

The 23-year-old said she had been swimming about 50 metres from shore when all of a sudden my body just felt like it was vibrating, she told 9News.

The adrenaline kicked in, although my memory is still patchy, I actually managed to get myself back to shore, Zoe said, adding she was sure a highly venomous box jellyfish was responsible.

When I miraculously made it to shore I very peacefully drifted into a deep state of sleep, she wrote on Instagram, recounting the ordeal which took place in October. Bystanders have since reached out to me detailing that my body had turned completely blue.

In the words of Zoe, a dance with 'mother natures most venomous creature became a cosmic communion'. Source: Instagram/Getty

A group of about 15 beachgoers rushed to her aid on the sand, reportedly dousing her in about eight litres of vinegar, with a nurse also performing CPR to keep her alive.

Jellyfish sting hospitalised Aussie for more than a month

Zoe told 9News she was confused, crying and screaming as she was rushed to the local hospital. She was then taken to another island where she was seen by a marine toxin specialist.

Photos and videos posted on her Instagram account show huge welts and now permanent scarring from the stings on her chest, arms and legs. The 23-year-old said she was unable to walk for two weeks due to the injuries and kept in hospital for over a month.

Story continues

Zoe Cahill is scarred all over her body. Source: Instagram

Im scarred all over my body, everywhere you look there's a mark, she said. But Im grateful to be here today.

Zoe said she decided to share her experience after hearing about a spate of hospitalisations of tourists on Kgari, formerly Fraser Island. Irukandji jellyfish are believed to be behind those attacks.

Box jellyfish venom can cause cardiac arrest

The box jellyfish is considered one of the most dangerous marine animals in Aussie waters and they've caused more than 70 fatalities including the death of a 14-year-old Queensland boy in 2022, according to Queensland Health.

It is the species that is most often associated with deaths in the country, Professor Culum Brown from Macquarie University previously told Yahoo News Australia. The venom (a neuro toxin) is so strong it can cause cardiac arrest within two minutes and its arguably the most dangerous venom in the sea, he said.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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The upcoming budget session of Parliamentthe last one before the Lok Sabha pollsis likely to be contentious as the opposition is intent on participating in discussions to corner the government before the elections. Lawmakers in Rajya Sabha during Budget Session of Parliament in New Delhi on April 6, 2023. (PTI)

The previous session was acrimonious as it saw an unprecedented 146 lawmakers being suspended from both Houses. The session also witnessed a serious lapse in the security of the heavily fortified building, with two intruders jumping into the Lok Sabha with smoke canisters. The winter session, which approved at least six important bills, mostly in the absence of the opposition, ended on Thursday, a day ahead of schedule.

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This time, opposition leaders indicated that they want to participate in the two debatesthe motion of thanks on the Presidents speech on January 31 and the discussion on the interim budget, the top two agenda of the session that is unlikely to have discussion on a non-financial bill.

We want to debate in the House and utilize the two opportunities to corner the government ahead of the election, a non-Congress floor leader from the opposition bloc said.

While the Bharatiya Janata Party is set to build on the Ram Temple narrative, the opposition cant afford to resort to only protests as it is important to make our points in the House, the leader said, seeking anonymity.

In the last session, too, the opposition engaged in debates in the first week. But after the security lapse on December 13, when two men jumped from the visitors gallery and sprayed yellow smoke in the Lok Sabha, the opposition resorted to protests to demand home minister Amit Shahs statement.

The lapse, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to as a serious issue, overshadowed the legislative process. During the customary exchange of greetings with floor leaders at the end of the session -- with most Opposition leaders missing -- Modi said all possible steps should be taken to ensure a foolproof security system.

Modi also told lawmakers that the issue was selectively raised by the opposition, referring to an incident that took place in the Karnataka assembly in July, when a man sat through part of the proceedings for about an hour, according to a person aware of the details who declined to be named.

Both the Houses were adjourned sine die on Thursday after the passage of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023, and the Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, 2023, in the Lok Sabha. In the Rajya Sabha, the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, and the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita that will replace the Indian Penal Code, the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita that replaces the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Bharatiya Saksha (Second) Bill that replaces the Evidence Act, 1872, were passed with no participation from the opposition.

Congress wants debates to take place in the House, a party leader said. There are important issues to be raised in the House. Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is highlighting the social, economic and political justice, the leader said, blaming the government for the disruptions. We have to counter the government on these issues.

President Droupadi Murmu will address a joint sitting of Parliament, which will be her first such address after she was elected as the 15th President in July, 2022. Murmus speech will also be her last in the current Lok Sabha that expires in June.

An opposition leader claimed that Murmus speech, which is approved by the Union cabinet, might be used by the government to highlight the performance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Our best option lies in participating in the debate on the speech and counter the government narrative, said a Rajya Sabha leader of a non-Congress party.

The interim budget will be placed in the Lok Sabha on February 1. The budget session will be held from January 31 to February 9.
Congress MLA Vikramaditya Singh, a minister in the Himachal Pradesh government, visited Ayodhya on Monday, defying his party's stance on the Ram Temple event. Sudhir Sharma, a Congress MLA in Himachal Pradesh, also attended the consecration ceremony of the temple. PWD minister of Himachal Pradesh, Vikramaditya Singh.(ANI file photo)

Who is Vikramaditya Singh?

Vikramaditya Singh is the son of current Himachal Congress chief Pratibha Singh.

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On Sunday, he arrived in Lucknow from Chandigarh.

The public works minister of the Himachal Pradesh government was declared the state guest of BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government.

Click to follow full coverage of the Ram Temple event

On January 8, he had said visiting Ayodhya for the ceremony was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of this historic day and as a Hindu having faith in 'Dev Samaj', it is my responsibility to be present on the occasion and witness the 'pran pratishtha' of Lord Ram, he said.

On January 10, the Congress said its top leaders wouldn't attend the ceremony as the BJP was trying to score political brownie points with the event.

Later, Singh made a u-turn saying he never said he would visit Ayodhya on January 22.

The party high command has specified that everyone is free to visit the temple whenever they want as religion and faith have nothing to do with politics and therefore, we will definitely visit the temple. I will not say that I will go on January 22 but will go whenever I feel like it, he had said.

Vikramaditya Singh, born in 1989, is an MLA from Shimla Rural constituency. He is the son of ex-CM late Virbhadra SIngh. His mother, Pratibha Singh is the MP from Mandi. She is also the state Congress chief.

He is the titular king of the erstwhile princely state of Bushahr.

He is a post-graduate in History from St Stephen's College, Delhi.

Vikramaditya Singh was the chief of the state youth Congress between 2013 and 2017.

He is a two-time MLA. He won his first election in 2017. He repeated the performance in 2023.

With inputs from PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the much-awaited grand Ram temple in Ayodhya, in a political triumph for the Bharatiya Janata Party's most popular leader, who is seeking re-election in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi being felicitated by Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath in the presence of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on Monday. (ANI)

The Ram temple fulfilled a long-standing demand by millions of Hindus who worship the revered deity and extoll him for the virtues of truth, sacrifice and ethical governance. The BJP, which seized on the demand, has portrayed the Ram temple as central to its vision of reclaiming Hindu pride, which it says was suppressed by centuries of Mughal rule and British colonialism.

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Modi and his ruling BJP hope that opening the Ayodhya Ram temple in India's most populated state Uttar Pradesh, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats, will help catapult the prime minister to a record third successive term in elections expected this spring. But with the temple still under construction, critics accuse Modi of a hurried opening to woo voters.

Modi, dressed in a traditional kurta tunic, led the opening ceremony as Hindu priests chanted hymns inside the temples inner sanctum. A conch was blown by a priest to mark the temples opening and Modi placed a lotus flower in front of the black stone Ram Lalla idol, decked in intricate gold ornaments and holding a golden bow and arrow. Modi later prostrated before the idol.

Nearly 7,500 people, including elite industrialists, politicians and movie stars, witnessed the ritual on a giant screen outside the temple as an Indian Air Force helicopter showered flower petals.

The Centre turned the event into a national occasion by organising live screenings across the country and closing offices for half a day. Saffron flags adorned the streets of various cities where BJP workers and followers had gone door to door handing out religious pamphlets.

Modi has been the face of an unprecedented fusion of religion and politics in the country. Ahead of the temple opening, he set the tone by visiting numerous Ram temples over 11 days as part of a Hindu ritual.

If media reports are to be believed, the BJP is looking at all avenues, including bringing in leaders from other parties, to achieve the mammoth target of winning 400 of the 543 Lok Sabha seats in the upcoming elections.

At an important meeting recently, BJP national president JP Nadda assigned different responsibilities to various general secretaries of the party.

"This committee will explore the possibility of bringing influential leaders and sitting MPs from other parties to the BJP. The decision will be taken based on the person's influence in the constituency and his or her ability to win elections," NDTV reported citing a source.

Political analysts and critics see Mondays ceremony as the beginning of the election campaign for Modi. According to them, the pomp-filled display led by the government shows the extent to which the line between religion and state has eroded under Modi, news agency AP reported.

Prime ministers prior to Modi have also been to temples, been to other places of worship, but they went there as devotees. This is the first time that he went there as somebody who performed the ritual, said Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, an expert and author of a book on Modi, told the news agency.

The grand Ram temple in Ayodhya is expected to embolden Modis chances of returning to power by drawing on the religious sentiments of Hindus, who make up 80% of Indias population.

The run-up to the consecration ceremony, which takes place just months before the Lok Sabha elections, was marked by sparring between the ruling BJP and the Opposition.

Top Opposition leaders skipped the temple inauguration, calling it an RSS-BJP event. But Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh, who is the son of state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, attended the event.
In the world of home comfort, few pieces can compete with a reclining sofa in allure. It does not matter whether you love reading books, watching movies, or just relaxing and unwinding at the end of a tiring working day; having a comfortable recliner will change how your space looks into one where relaxation comes naturally. In addition, the market is full of alternatives, leaving anyone needing to choose their favourite or best recliner sofa with an intense struggle. Worry not; our list of the top 10 recliner sofas has been carefully selected to ensure that each sofa is comfortable and stylish from every angle. Best recliner sofas: Check out our comprehensive guide to comfortable seating.(Unsplash)

A recliner sofa is not merely a piece of furniture; it's an oasis where you can relax, lean back, and revive. Perfectly designed recliner sofa seamlessly takes comfort and design to a new level of sophistication in your living room. Whether you are a traditionalist or prefer modern styles, our guide is meant to help you navigate various options available today. For your ease of exploring the best recliner sofa, refer to our ultimate guide on selected products that will make it easier for you concerning decision-making. Now, it's time to explore the alluring realm of recliner sofas in which comfort meets style like never before.

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As we set out to discover the top 10 best recliner sofas, it's not only about buying a piece of furniture; rather, we are curating an experience. Your home is your safe place; the perfect recliner will take it and turn it into a place of peace, combining comfort with style. Every recliner in our guide reflects the changing nature of contemporary furniture, which provides both seating and one's restorative sanctuary. Whether for classic comfort, contemporary splendour, or cutting-edge styling, our guide is your pathway to finding the perfect recliner sofa. Let us embark on this path of redefining lounge culture as we explore what makes each lounge distinctive through its specifications, design, and USPs. Here is where your journey to ultimate home comfort begins.

Product List

1. The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Standard Recliner

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Be in a world of permanent comfort with The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Standard Recliner that comes with the patented SmartGRID Technology. This unique innovation brings refined softness to your body and effectively supports your posture. With a unique lumbar design, this best recliner sofa is designed to give a comfortable fit and, therefore, is a perfect companion for leisure time. Under the power control of 150-easy recline, this motorised chair provides comfort at your fingertips.

The electric push buttons make adjusting the footrest and backrest easy and offer a convenient and individualised reclining experience. In addition, the Luxe has a rocking system that turns your me-time into tranquil repose. Select the rotary option, and take advantage of the 270-degree turn mechanism so that you do not have to forego comfort in trying for items nearby.

Specifications of The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Standard Recliner

Material: Wooden frame and Molfino Fabric

Overall Dimensions: 140 cm x 66 cm x 87cm

Recline Angle: Up to 150

Special Features: Motor reclining, rocking motorised revolving

Pros Cons Motorised reclining for easy adjustments Revolving variant may not suit everyone's preference Rocking mechanism adds an extra layer of relaxation Limited information on colour options Ergonomic design and thick padding for enhanced comfort No mention of additional features like massage functionality

2. Green Soul Comfy Fabric Single Seater Recliner Chair (Grey)

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Improve your seating environment with the Green Soul Comfy Fabric Single Seater Recliner Chair in a sophisticated grey shade. This recliner is built with a modern frame and enjoys an extra-wide armrest for comfort. Durability is also ensured with the durable fabric and engineered wood (particle board).

This chair measures a large (L) 86cm X (D) 96cm x (H)101 cm for adequate space to unwind. This best recliner sofa with back and seat webbing for ultimate comfort. The 3-year warranty on manufacturing defects brings peace of mind. This do-it-yourself assembly is advantageous because it offers stressless installation and modern sofa styles, making it a perfect choice for your home setting.

Specifications of Green Soul Comfy Fabric Single Seater Recliner Chair

Material: Polyester fabric, particle board.

Colour: Grey

Product Dimensions: 8696101 cm

Seating Height: 50 cm

Weight: 36 kg

Style: Contemporary

Warranty: 3 years on manufacturing defects

Recliner Type: Manual

Pros Cons Wide armrest provides additional comfort Weight of 36 kg may be heavy for some users Webbing on back and seat for maximum comfort Limited colour option Contemporary style enhances modern living spaces No mention of advanced features like power reclining or massage functionality

3. Little NAP Recliner Sofa | 1 Seater

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Enjoy unparalleled comfort with the Little NAP Recliner Sofa, a one-seater that utilises OKIN Brand German Technology Heavy Duty Mechanism. This best recliner sofa is easy to install and has Reliance Recron that provides back and arm cushions breathability for total lumbar and head support. The chair's quality and durable wood structure is combined with high-density foam for excellent seat support. It combines German technology and reliable materials, providing unspeakable comfort and durability to those who want the best.

Specifications of Little NAP Recliner Sofa | 1 Seater

Mechanism: OKIN Brand (German Technology)

Back Cushion: Reliance Recron (Breathable Polyester Filling)

Foam: Superior quality foam with 22 and 40-density

Seat Structure: Quality and durable wood

Installation: Easy to install

Pros Cons OKIN Brand mechanism ensures reliable functionality Limited information on the installation process Reliance Recron filling for breathable and comfortable cushions Material details are not specified Quality wood structure for durability No mention of additional features like rocking or revolving mechanism

Also read: Amazon Sale: Up to 76% off on recliner sofas, it's time to unwind in style

4. Duroflex Avalon Single Seater Manual Recliner

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A reliable choice for plush comfort and ergonomic sofa design, the Duroflex Avalon Single Seater Manual Recliner impresses with manual reclining. This recliner has been designed from high-quality, highly resilient Duroflex foam and premium suede fabric, offering superior lumbar support as well as neck comfort. Additional padding on the armrests improves the general feeling of luxury.

The best recliner sofa is carefully thought out and has international durability marks, hence making it reliable for use even in the long term. Setting up the ideal comfort zone with a DIY installation has never been easier.

Specifications of Duroflex Avalon Single Seater Manual Recliner

Material: Premium Suede fabric

Foam: High-quality, high-resilience Duroflex foam

Design: Plush comfort with lumbar support

Durability Standards: Meets international durability industry standards

Installation: DIY installation

Pros Cons Plush comfort design with high-resilient Duroflex foam Specific warranty details are not provided Ergonomic design for different uses and long sitting durations Limited information on colour options Meets international durability standards DIY installation may require careful attention

5. USHA SHRIRAM Fabric Recliner Sofa

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In the category of space-saving furniture solutions, this Fabric Recliner Sofa is the epitome of comfort and style brought to you by Usha Shriram. Additional comfort is guaranteed by using premium quality material ranging from leather to fabric and microfiber. The reclining function allows the chair to adjust, offering seven great seats for individual relaxation.

Its cushioned seats fit the body, resulting in individualised fitting and maximum comfort. It is also the perfect choice when you are there for sheer relaxation, as it has padded armrests to support your arms and shoulders. Being available in various sizes and shapes, the right fit for your body type as well as room size has always been easy to come by with this best recliner sofa.

Specifications of USHA SHRIRAM Fabric Recliner Sofa

Material: Different types of materials, including leather, cloth, and microfiber

Reclining Mechanism: Adjustable angle, multiple positions

Cushioned Seating: Custom body contours

Armrests: Padded for additional support

Size and Shape: Different sizes and shapes available

Pros Cons Premium quality materials for added comfort Specific details about reclining positions are not mentioned Adjustable reclining mechanism for personalised comfort Limited information on warranty and after-sales services Cushioned seating contours to the body for a customised fit Limited details on size and shape variations

6- Antique Wood Hub Lazy Couch and Reclining Sofa

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Enter the territory of contemporary comfort and style with the Antique Wood Hub Lazy Couch Reclining Sofa. This cozy item is a real living room's visual catcher, allowing you to revel in home-based wellness. Providing an elegant and clear look, this best recliner sofa has its timeless usefulness in any room. With a wooden frame and Molfino Fabric cover, the sofa radiates quality.

The beige colour and general dimensions of 140x66x87 cm can be used in any interior space. The reclining sofa is the ideal relaxation point due to its ergonomic design as well as hairy padding that makes it one of a kind.

Specifications of Antique Wood Hub Lazy Couch and Reclining Sofa

Material: Wooden frame and Molfino Fabric

Overall Dimensions: 140 x 66 x87

Design: Modern and elegant

Comfort: Thick padding, ergonomic design

Pros Cons Modern design and elegant look Limited information on colour options Ergonomic design and thick padding for enhanced comfort Material details are not specified Versatile dimensions suitable for various rooms Limited information on additional features

7- WOOD ART INDIA Lazy Couch and Reclining Cream Color Sofa

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The WOOD ART INDIA Lazy Couch and Reclining Cream Color Sofa allow you to enjoy a vintage style and luxury. This bench offers a luxurious appearance with deep button tufting, elegant rolled arms, and extra tassels. A velvet fabric with a soft Velour feel, good cushioning for the armrest, and matching seat height provide comfort.

The robust construction that consists of the wood frame and rubber feet allows for staying stable with a load capacity of up to 150 kg. The cream colour wooden framework makes it such an elegant piece for anywhere in your room or house. With a size of 140x66x87 cm, this luxury recliner sofa gives you comfort and adds elegance to your living room.

Specifications of WOOD ART INDIA Lazy Couch and Reclining Cream Color Sofa

Colour: Cream

Material: Wooden frame and Molfino Fabric

Overall Dimensions: 140x66x87

Style: Antique button-tufting deep, rolled arm tassels with

Load Capacity: 150 kg

Pros Cons Vintage style with deep button tufting Limited information on warranty and after-sales services Comfortable seating with wide armrest Limited information on additional features like rocking or reclining Robust construction for stability Limited colour options

8- Torque - Valencia 1 Seater Fabric Manual Recliner

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Providing comfort and control, the Torque - Valencia 1 Seater Fabric Manual's best recliner sofa is here. The manual reclining mechanism is a lever or handle that lets you adjust the position of the recline according to your liking. Considering ergonomics, this recliner provides the best support for your back, head, neck, and legs so that you can comfortably get in a proper sitting position.

Though leather recliner sofas are heavy, their design takes up little space, making them ideal for smaller rooms. The manual recliner is easy to operate and allows you full control over the angle with which it can be used. The Torque-Valencia is reliable and durable thanks to its 1-year limited brand warranty for manufacturing defects.

Specifications of Torque - Valencia 1 Seater Fabric Manual Recliner

Reclining Mechanism: Manual with lever

Ergonomic Design: Optimised support for the back, neck, and legs.

Space-Saving: Yes, available in various sizes

Operation: Easy to operate

Warranty: 1 Year for manufacturing defects

Pros Cons Manual reclining mechanism for personalised control Specific warranty details are not provided Ergonomic design for optimal back, neck, and leg support Limited information on colour options Space-saving design suitable for smaller living spaces No mention of additional features like rocking or power reclining

9- JORDY BLUE Single Seater Manual Rocking Revolving Recliner Sofa

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Raise your comfort level by choosing JORDY BLUE Single Seater Manual Rocking Revolving, the best recliner sofa. Featuring a taller backrest for superior head, neck, and shoulder support, allowing total comfort. Its contemporary design takes the aesthetics of your living room to a whole new level.

In the category of luxury recliner sofas, this is made out of a heavy-gauge framed frame coated with powder and offers anti-rust features in terms of its sturdiness and durability. Rock and revolve in style. Find a sanctuary within your home.

Specifications of JORDY BLUE Single Seater Manual Rocking Revolving Recliner Sofa

Design: High back for superior head, neck, and shoulder support.

Style: Sleek and stylish design

Construction: Frame with heavy gauge, powder-coated to prevent rusting

Reclining Features: Manual rocking and revolving

Pros Cons Higher backrest for exceptional head, neck, and shoulder support Limited information on colour options Sleek and stylish design adds sophistication to the living room No specific details on the rocking and revolving mechanism Heavy gauge and powder-coated frame for sturdiness Installation details are not specified

Also read: Amazon Sale: Single seat recliner sofa offer great comfort, grab up to 75% off

10- The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual Recliner in Suede Leatherette

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Enjoy an all-season luxury indulgence with The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual's best recliner sofa in Suede Leatherette. With weather-resistant suede upholstery, this recliner sofa in the category of space-saving furniture solutions is sturdy and can endure many kinds of conditions.

The mechanism is user-friendly and simple to put into use, leading one through rest when reclining in comfort. This comfortable and supportive recliner has 32-density foam seating along with pocket springs. The two-seater design gives you extra versatility in your living room, turning it into a little nook for peace and relaxation. Consider investing in a versatile and fashionable recliner that suits your lifestyle and adds aesthetic value to your home.

Specifications of The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual Recliner in Suede Leatherette

Upholstery: All-weather resistant Suede Leatherette

Mechanism: Durable reclining mechanism

Assembly: Easy to assemble

Comfort: Rest, recline, and relax features

Seating: 32 Density Foam, with Pocket Springs

Pros Cons All-weather resistant suede upholstery for durability Limited information on specific reclining positions Durable reclining mechanism for ease of use Limited details on warranty and after-sales services Easy to assemble for hassle-free setup No mention of advanced features like power reclining or massage functionality

Three best feature for consumers:

Product Feature 1 Feature 2 Feature 3 The Sleep Company Luxe Motorised Standard Recliner Motorized Reclining Rocking Mechanism Revolving Variant Green Soul Comfy Fabric Single Seater Recliner Chair (Grey) Wide Armrest Webbing on Back and Seat Contemporary Style Little NAP Recliner Sofa OKIN Brand Mechanism Reliance Recron Filling Quality Wood Structure Duroflex Avalon Single Seater Manual Recliner Plush Comfort Design Ergonomic Design International Durability Standards USHA SHRIRAM Fabric Recliner Sofa Premium Quality Material Adjustable Reclining Mechanism Cushioned Seating Antique Wood Hub Lazy Couch and Reclining Sofa Modern Design Elegant Look Ergonomic Design and Thick Padding WOOD ART INDIA Lazy Couch and Reclining Cream Color Sofa Vintage Style Comfortable Seating Robust Construction Torque - Valencia 1 Seater Fabric Manual Recliner Manual Reclining Mechanism Ergonomic Design Space-Saving JORDYBLUE Single Seater Manual Rocking Revolving Recliner Sofa Higher Backrest Sleek and Stylish Design Heavy Gauge and Powder Coated Frame The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual Recliner in Suede Leatherette All-Weather Resistant Suede Upholstery Durable Mechanism Easy to Assemble

Best value for money product

In terms of getting the best value for money related to recliners, The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual Recliner in Suede Leatherette is the best recliner sofa that stands out among them all. This recliner provides an ideal combination of comfort, toughness, and value for money, which makes it a smart choice for people who want quality and cost-effectiveness at the same time.

Made from suede upholstery that is resistant to weather, this reclining chair guarantees durability no matter how extreme the condition may be and delivers a comfortable seating experience for you. Wedged between the 32-density foam and pocket spring seating, you will feel cradled in a cocoon that allows your body to relax. Not only does the two-seater design give character to your living space, but it also makes your home more attractive.

However, given its cost-effective price, amazing functions, and quality build material design of The Couch Cell Resten Two Seater Manual Recliner in Suede Leatherette makes it the best value for money. It is both aesthetic and functional with a certain practicality to it, yet it does not cost an arm or leg.

Best overall product

As for the best overall recliner that strikes a balance between aesthetics, comfort, and innovative features you can find in one piece of furniture, JORDYBLUE Single Seater Manual Rocking Revolving Recliner Sofa is perfect. This recliner is designed to provide an elegant and stylish lounging experience, making it perfect for people who appreciate both form and function.

This lounger has a higher backrest that cradles your head, neck, and shoulders in luxurious comfort to distinguish it from other recliners. It allows you to enjoy unconditional luxury, and the elegant and innovative design transforms your living room, making it unique in its modern appearance.

This best recliner sofa blends durability and style, making it an investment that fulfills and surpasses expectations. The selection of materials, paired with careful engineering, ensures that this recliner is not only different in design but also reliable and durable.

How to find the perfect recliner sofa?

A recliner is much more than a piece of furniture; your personal sanctuary should be comfortable, stylish, and practical. This is the ultimate guide on how to find a suitable recliner sofa for your home.

1. Assess Your Space:

Before venturing into the world of recliners, measure your residential space to derive the dimensions that will fit neatly. Take into account the room plan, dimensions of available floor space, and location of other furniture. A recliner should appeal to the eye and give adequate space for lying down without blocking pathways.

2. Identify Your Style:

Recliners have many design styles, including traditional, modern, and contemporary. You can select a recliner that will match the design of your house. Whether you prefer leather, cloth, or microfiber upholstery, look for the style that fits your preferences and how it compliments other aspects of the living room.

3. Determine the Type of Recliner:

There are different kinds of recliners, each providing unique characteristics. Such a recliner offers a regular reclining function, and rocking or gliding alternatives provide secondary motion. Wall hugger recliners are perfect for spaces with limited room because they need less clearance between the wall and the unit. Power recliners, with push buttons or remote controls-assisted operation, provide convenience and simplicity.

4. Consider Upholstery Material:

The selection of upholstery material affects not only appearance but also comfort and care. Leather recliners ooze sophistication and are convenient to wash, whereas their fabric or microfiber counterparts allow for a greater variety of colours and designs. Select the upholstery according to your choice of life and taste.

5. Focus on Comfort Features:

Comfort should be the primary factor in choosing a recliner. Search for elements like thick padding, lumbar support, and a high backrest. Some recliners include added features such as built-in massage functionality or heated seats to enhance relaxation.

6. Test the Reclining Mechanism:

The mechanism of reclining is an important component of any recliner. Check whether the mechanism works effectively and without any difficulty. Manual recliners can be tested based on lever or handle manipulation. The control system of the power recliners should be simple. Make sure that the recliner offers a variety of comfortable positions based on your personal tastes.

7. Check for Durability:

Invest in a sturdy recliner. Look at the frame material, whether it's hardwood or metal. The joints and couplings ought to be firm and well-built. The durability and longevity of your recliner are guaranteed by quality construction.

8. Set a Budget:

Before you even begin looking for the perfect recliner, set a budget. Prices would range extensively, and you can limit the choices with a budget. However, you should remember that although a recliner is an investment in comfort, it must fit your budget.
Madhuri Dixit is one of the celebrities travelling to Ayodhya today to attend the Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha ceremony. The paparazzi clicked Madhuri with her husband, Shriram Nene, at the Kalina airport in the morning. Apart from Madhuri, other celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Rohit Shetty, and a few other celebrities also travelled to Ayodhya. Scroll through to check out what Madhuri Dixit wore to the event. Madhuri Dixit and Shriram Nene leave for Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya.

Madhuri Dixit leaves for the Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya

Madhuri Dixit and her husband, Shriram Nene, chose ethnic ensembles for attending the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. The paparazzi clicked them at the Kalina airport in Mumbai, where the couple posed for the cameras and greeted the media before heading inside to catch their flight. While Madhuri chose a heavily embellished yellow silk saree for the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha event, Shriram complemented his wife in a maroon kurta, matching brocade embroidered jacket, white dhoti, and tan mojaris.

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Coming to the details of Madhuri's ethnic look, the yellow silk saree features gold brocade embroidery done in leaf patterns, tassels on the hem of the pallu, and broad gold patti borders decked in shimmering sequin and gold taar work. Madhuri wore the six yards traditionally, letting the pallu fall off the shoulder elegantly.

Madhuri paired the silk saree with a matching gold silk blouse featuring a round neckline, full-length sleeves, a fitted silhouette, brocade work, and sequin embellishments on the neck. She chose a gold bracelet, rings, embellished gold wedge heels, and jhumkis for the accessories. In the end, striking eye makeup, a dainty bindi, on-fleek brows, berry-toned lip shade, blushed cheeks, a pulled-back bun, and mascara on the lashes completed the glam picks.

Meanwhile, the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha event is set to take place today, on Monday, January 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi presiding over the ceremony.
Disease X is referred to as a hypothetical pathogen or threat that can cause a major pandemic in future. The term coined by scientists and the World Health Organization could be any of the 25 families of viruses that have the capability to cause illness in people. Disease X was included in the WHOs updated Blueprint list of diseases back in 2018. Scientists are of the opinion that Disease X could be 20 times more deadly than SARS-Covid virus that caused pandemic recently and it is imperative to carry out research and development about it to prevent millions of deaths worldwide. (Also read: Covid variant JN.1 spreading fast; preventive tips for children) Scientists are of the opinion that Disease X could be 20 times more deadly than SARS-Covid virus that caused pandemic recently(Freepik)

While Disease X is not a real threat right now, but there is possibility of it emerging in future and steps need to be taken to minimise deaths and devastation.

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Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of World Health Organization has warned nations to stay prepared for the possible threat. "There are things that are unknown that may happen, and anything happening is a matter of when, not if, so we need to have a placeholder for that, for the diseases we don't know," said Ghebreyesus.

WHAT IS DISEASE X?

Disease X is not a specific disease but is the name given to a potential novel infectious agent. It represents an illness which is currently unknown but could pose a serious microbial threat to humans in the future.

"Labelling this potential threat as 'Disease X' is meant to prioritise preparations for dealing with a disease that does not yet have vaccines or drug treatments, and could give rise to a severe epidemic," says Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

"Exploring the concept of Disease X is like getting into the mysterious and unpredictable realm of infectious diseases. Unlike lifestyle or genetic diseases that affect specific individuals or groups, infectious diseases, represented by Disease X, have the potential to impact global populations. Scientists use advanced models to predict the emergence and spread of such diseases, considering factors like origin, type, and transmission methods. Disease X serves as a hypothetical scenario, envisioning a future infectious disease that could affect the entire world. The focus is on its potential lethality, raising questions about how much more impactful it could be compared to known infections," says Dr. Pavithra Venkatagopalan, a microbiologist, coronavirus expert, and Covid Awareness Specialist, Rotary Club of Madras Next Gen.

DISEASE X: WHICH VIRUSES CAN TRIGGER NEW PANDEMIC?

"The coronaviruses, a large group of viruses, were long seen as a prime contender for producing a new pandemic, even before the Covid-19 outbreak. SARS and MERS are coronaviruses with potential for causing pandemics and their previous outbreaks were controlled with strict measures. However, SARS and MERS would have a harder time triggering a fresh pandemic because almost everyone in the world now has antibodies to the virus that causes Covid-19 and these seem to give partial protection against most other pathogens in the coronavirus family," adds Dr Tayal.

Dr Tayal feels that Flu viruses which have caused pandemics in the past - viruses such as Ebola and ZIKA also have pandemic potential.

"Disease X serves as a predictive model for potential future infectious diseases. Unlike lifestyle or genetic diseases that affect individuals based on internal factors or personal choices, infectious diseases pose a threat to large populations. These diseases, like diabetes or high blood pressure, are often linked to individual actions or genetic predispositions. In contrast, infectious diseases, which can be transmitted through air, water, or food, have the potential to impact a broad swath of the population. Unlike lifestyle diseases that may not affect everyone, infectious diseases can reach many people due to their connection to our basic needs for survivalair, water, and food. For instance, an infectious disease transmitted by a needle might only affect those at high risk, making it more of a lifestyle infectious disease. However, diseases like Covid -19 or influenza, such as the historic Spanish flu, spread easily because we all share the same air. Our social nature and close interactions contribute to the widespread impact of infectious diseases," says Dr Pavithra.

HOW COVID LESSONS CAN HELP US DEAL WITH DISEASE X

The learnings of Covid-19 pandemic can help us in dealing with future pandemics by Disease X if we stay alert and prepared.

"The novel vaccine designs, including ones that can be quickly repurposed to target new pathogens and vaccines based on mRNA have shown us the potential to formulate vaccines rapidly and effectively against new pathogens. Also there is need by government to empower and facilitate hospitals to expand their capacity if crises arises," says Dr Tayal.

WHY DISEASE X COULD BE 20 TIMES MORE LETHAL

"We can never eliminate infectious diseases from society, as viruses and bacteria constantly evolve to survive alongside us. The concept of 20 times more lethal emphasizes the potential magnitude of impact, whether in terms of the rate of spread or the number of people infected. With the world's population at its highest ever, the number of individuals could contribute to a higher lethality, even if the percentage of deaths remains relatively low. The human aspect is crucial, recognizing that every death, regardless of statistical percentages, has profound consequences for affected families and communities. The importance of prediction models lies in their ability to prepare societies for potential threats. As seen with Covid-19, accurate predictions can save lives by enabling better tracking, tracing, and response strategies. The ongoing efforts of individuals and organizations worldwide in tracking, tracing, and reporting infections contribute to a more informed and vigilant global response to emerging diseases," concludes Dr Pavithra.
With the limited facilities on the summit already at breaking point, rubbish piling up and concern over rising numbers of injuries, the local government that oversees one of the most popular hiking routes to the top of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji is imposing a toll and a daily cap on the number of climbers. (Also Read | How to plan a trip to see the Olympics this summerwithout going to Paris) Japan's iconic mountain has seen trash problems and more injuries among inexperienced and poorly equipped climbers. (Pexels)

Yamanashi prefectural government announced in late December that a limit of 4,000 climbers per day would be introduced on the popular Yoshida Trail, on the northern flank of the mountain, at the start of the 70-day summer climbing season on July 1.

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Announcing the plan, Governor Kotaro Nagasaki told a press conference on December 20 that several additional regulations would also be imposed, including not permitting more climbers to set off from the start of the trail between 4 pm and 2 am and the introduction of a toll to help cover the cost of maintaining hiking routes and the construction of shelters to be used in the event of an eruption.

The cost of using the Yoshida Trail is likely to be set in February, the Asahi newspaper quoted the governor as saying.

Congested trails

"This is a measure to alleviate congestion on the trail, as previous surveys have shown that excessive crowding occurs near the summit when the number of climbers exceeds 4,000," he said.

The plans have the broad support of guiding organizations and other groups dedicated to preserving the environment of the 3,776-meter (12,388-foot) volcano, which is still revered in Japan as a symbol of the nation and was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 2013.

"Limiting the number of climbers is both good and bad," said Tatsuo Nanai, secretary general of the Fuji-san Club, a non-profit organization set up to protect the mountain and educate visitors.

"Introducing a limit on the number of climbers and charging them may put some people off coming here, and that could damage the local economy, but on the other hand, there are a number of problems that need to be solved before they become much worse," he told DW.

"One big problem is the rubbish people leave behind," he added. "We have signs up asking people to take their waste with them when they go, but not everyone does. So that means organizations such as ours spend time there picking up trash."

There is also only a very limited number of public toilets on the mountain, Nanai said, with deposits of human waste also building up.

He also believes that the authorities are correct to be worried about the possibility of hikers being injured  or worse  on the peak.

Safety fears

"Mount Fuji can be very dangerous. I don't think most people realize just how dangerous it can be," he said. "This is the highest peak in Japan and, at the highest elevations, people can feel the effects of oxygen deprivation and altitude sickness."

Equally, many people start climbing at an altitude where the heat and humidity of a Japanese summer are still very much being felt and do not realize the changes that are in store as they climb higher.

There are regular reports of people starting out in beach sandals, shorts and T-shirts and finding themselves in danger when temperatures dip below freezing and powerful winds howl across the barren slopes of the mountain.

Luke Cummings, joint owner of Fuji Mountain Guides, agrees that Mount Fuji can be unforgiving.

"A couple of years ago there was a rock fall close to the peak and a climber was killed and I guess there are fatalities every couple of years, often an older person suffering a heart attack," he said.

The authorities are hoping to stamp out what is termed "bullet climbing," said Cummings, who has guided groups to the top of Mount Fuji well over 100 times.

Bullet climbers typically set out in the late afternoon or early evening and climb through the night, not stopping to rest at any of the huts provided to offer respite from the weather and enable climbers to sleep for a couple of hours.

They aim to reach the peak shortly before sunrise, although getting the timing right is notoriously difficult, Cummings said.

For those who arrive too early, there is no shelter and temperatures are well below freezing. Climbers approaching the peak late often get caught in a crush of people trying to complete the route before the sun appears. Both situations are potentially dangerous, he said.

A total of 221,322 people climbed Mount Fuji in the summer of 2023, of whom 137,236 spent around six hours climbing the Yoshida Trail, with the others utilizing three less congested trails.

"The Yoshida Trail is the most popular route and this is why the prefectural government is looking into limiting numbers," said Cummings.

"If it results in better facilities on the routes then I think it will be a good thing. It is likely that the prefectures that host the other trails to the top will introduce similar systems in the future as well."
When Royal Caribbeans Icon of the Seas embarks on its first official voyage on Jan. 27, the journey is sure to make waves. The worlds largest cruise ship, the Icon is over 1,000 feet long (360 meters) and weighs in around 250,000 gross registered tons. It boasts 20 different decks; 40 restaurants, bars and lounges; seven pools; six waterslides and a 55-foot waterfall. Royal Caribbean says its boat will usher in a new era of vacations. The worlds largest cruise ship, the Icon is over 1,000 feet long (360 meters) and weighs in around 250,000 gross registered tons. Photographer: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg(Bloomberg)

Maybe so. But the Icon is also a doubling down on a negative aspect of cruisings current era: greenhouse gas emissions. (Also read: With 7,960 capacity, this is worlds largest cruise ship: All you need to know)

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In 2022, Bryan Comer, director of the Marine Program at the International Council on Clean Transportation examined the carbon footprint of cruising as compared to a hotel stay plus air travel  since cruises are effectively floating hotels. His analysis found that a person taking a US cruise for 1,200 miles (2,000 kilometers) on the most efficient cruise line would be responsible for roughly 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms) of CO2, compared with 518 pounds (235 kilograms) for a round-trip flight and a stay in a four-star hotel. In other words: Taking a cruise generates about double the amount of total greenhouse gas emissions as flying, Comer says.

Not to mention, usually people fly to take a cruise, notes Stella Bartolini Cavicchi, marine policy advisor at OceanMind, a nonprofit that uses satellite and other technologies to understand humans impact on the sea. Flying to a cruising port means you end up with quite a carbon-intensive holiday, she says.

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson says the Icon is designed to operate 24% more efficiently than the international standard for new ships, which per International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations must already be 30% more energy-efficient than those built in 2014. The company will also monitor the Icon over the next six to 12 months to ensure that were getting what we were designing the ship to be, the spokesperson said.

In 2022, the most recent year for which data is available, Royal Caribbean direct (or Scope 1) emissions totaled 5.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent, up from 5.3 million tons in 2019.

Just a few years ago, the future of cruising seemed like it was in dire straits. When Covid-19 travel restrictions grounded ships for months on end, there was major concern in the industry that passenger interest would be slow to return. But as soon as restrictions were lifted, people did not think twice, Bartolini Cavicchi says. The Oceania world cruise sold out within one day in January 2021. People were just dying to get back out there.

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which says its membership accounts for roughly 95% of global cruise trips, predicts passenger volume will hit 36 million this year, up from almost 32 million in 2023 and 30 million in 2019. Last year, the ClimateTrace coalition (of which OceanMind is a member) published an analysis that found cruise ship emissions are already 6% higher than they were before the pandemic.

Cruise ships climate impact isnt limited to emissions that trap heat in the atmosphere. The enormous vessels also spew a soot-like substance known as black carbon, which absorbs sunlight and traps heat on the ground. In the Arctic, which is playing host to a growing number of cruises, black carbon can settle on snow and ice, speeding up the rate at which glaciers melt. Bartolini Cavicchi says that while cruise ships account for around 1% of the global fleet, theyre responsible for 6% of black carbon emissions.

Unlike flying, whose climate impact spurred flygskam, or flight-shaming, cruise ships dont always get the same environmental scrutiny. Thats in part because shipping is often seen as more energy-efficient than air travel, which is true for cargo ships thanks to their relatively small living areas and efficient use of space. Cruise ships, by contrast, are energy hogs: Paying vacationers expect more square footage, and modern cruises offer a slew of amenities.

Youve got things like heating the pool and keeping the lights on, Comer says. [You] have heating and air conditioning; you've got the casino. There's just a lot of equipment to keep running to keep everybody entertained and comfortable.

At the same time, cruise companies are quick to cite sustainability goals. Royal Caribbean Cruises, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings have all pledged to reach net zero emissions by 2050, while Carnival Corp. plans to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

To meet those goals, cruise operators are increasingly replacing oil-based fuels with less carbon-intensive alternatives, most commonly liquified natural gas (LNG). The CLIA says that, of the 44 new vessels on order through 2028, more than half will be powered by natural gas. The Icon of the Seas runs on a 300-ton LNG fuel tank.

LNG-powered ships do emit 25% less CO2 than those running on conventional marine fuels, but one 2023 investigation by environmental activists found that cruise ships running on LNG often leak some of it directly into the atmosphere as methane, a greenhouse gas that in the short term is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide. For three out of four engine types, the investigation determined that LNG was worse for the climate in the short term than conventional fuels.

Comer says cruise ship operators could transition to more sustainable fuels. Replacing LNG with methanol  an alternative that has little to no lifecycle emissions  would slash methane output.

The Royal Caribbean spokesperson says that when the Icon was designed eight years ago, LNG was the next new-age fuel for any ship and the vessels engine was the most efficient option. The companys next ship  the Utopia of the Seas, slated for completion this spring  will have a different engine designed to reduce the risk of methane leaks. The Celebrity Xcel, which is part of Royal Caribbeans Celebrity subsidiary and expected to begin operations in 2025, is being designed with an engine that can run on three kinds of fuel, including methanol.

The maritime industry overall is under pressure to cut emissions. Last year, the IMO began requiring companies with ships over a certain size to calculate an Energy Efficiency Ship Index (EEXI) and to begin collecting data related to an operational Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), which factors in a ships emissions, the amount of cargo being transported and the distance traveled. Starting this year, ships will receive an A to E sustainability rating based on their data; those with a D rating for three consecutive years, or an E for one year, will have to submit a plan for improvement, though its unclear what penalties there are for poor performance.

But the cruise industry is pushing for a metric that doesnt factor in distance traveled, as cruise ships time in port means theyre likely to receive a worse CII rating. The vessels hotel-like infrastructure still requires significant energy use even when there are fewer people on board and no nautical miles being traversed. The metric is not is not set up for ships that do not move continuously, says the Royal Caribbean spokesperson.

Recent research indicates this inconsistency could even incentivize cruise ships to adopt itineraries with more time on the move, which would increase their overall emissions. The authors suggested replacing distance traveled with percentage of time spent at sea.
In the vast landscape of Indian agriculture, women play a pivotal role, constituting around 43% of agricultural labourers globally and a staggering 84% in rural India. Despite their substantial contribution, women farmers face numerous challenges such as a lack of land rights and minimal representation in decision-making processes. In the interim budget, which will be presented on February 1, climate-positive allocation can empower women farmers to address the multidimensional aspects of their work and associated small-scale industries.

Women account for 33% of the cultivators and 47% of agricultural labourers in India. The feminisation of agriculture, driven by the migration of rural men to urban centres, highlights the increasing roles women play in all stages of farming, from cultivation to post-harvest activities. As men migrate in search of better opportunities, women actively cultivate crops, going beyond traditional roles to food processing and marketing. But their role in marketing is limited to the local haats (rural markets).

Their close connection to the land positions them as key contributors to innovative farming techniques and sustainable practices, but their drudgery does not reduce. Back-bending work impacts a womans reproductive health and nutritional levels. She is not acknowledged as a farmer due to a lack of land rights and thus, receives no benefits as a farmer. Whats more, climate-change-based vagaries exacerbate the problems women agriculturists face with limited access to natural resources like land, water, forests, equipment, schemes of the government, inputs and subsidies.

The installation of solar-based irrigation systems in regions like Madhya Pradesh has benefitted women to grow high-value crops and earn higher incomes. By substituting manual irrigation with mechanical irrigation, womens workloads can greatly decrease. Agriculture practices need to be gender-smart, and this is crucial to mitigate the impact of climate change. Recognising their role in fostering long-term well-being is essential for crafting a budget that supports climate-positive practices.

Budgetary commitment

In India's first State of Elementary Education in Rural India report, released in August 2023, we, at Transform Rural India, with the support of the data intelligence unit located in the ministry of rural development sought to uncover the extent to which parents influence their childs educational outcomes. It revealed that 36.8% of girls cited the need to earn for their families as the reason for leaving school, which highlights farming as the only source of livelihood for women in rural India. Initiatives like the Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) have been instrumental in acknowledging and enhancing the visibility of women farmers.

Thus, there is increased investment in programmes like the Mahila Lakhpati scheme, which aims to diversify livelihoods, promote collective initiatives, and provide access to credit for women farmers. Innovations such as the Nari Adhikar Kendra, a community and women-led institutional mechanism established in 2022 in Madhya Pradesh, address issues beyond agriculture, including gender-based violence, child marriages, and technical support for women entrepreneurs.

This approach integrates gender-transformative strategies, fostering economic empowerment and enhancing women's labour force participation. Women entrepreneurs and agri-entrepreneurs can be encouraged in the cultivation of millets, processing, and running mills.

What does a climate-positive budget look like?

As the 2024-25 budget takes shape, it must reflect the importance of women farmers in India's economy and environment. A climate-positive budgetary approach can empower women, recognise their invaluable contributions, and pave the way for sustainable, gender-smart agriculture practices. It needs to create the intersectionality required for women farmers in India. While their contributions go unseen in the grand scheme of things, the budget 2024-25 needs to reflect their importance in the economy as well as the environment.

In "Exploring gender approach to climate change and agroecology: Women farmer's search for agency in India", published in the Asian Journal of Social Science (Volume 51, Issue 1, March 2023), Pushpa Singh pointed out how climate change has a gendered nature, disproportionately affecting women due to entrenched patriarchal systems. Socially structured gender roles create specific vulnerabilities for women, restricting their access to key decision-making processes. The upcoming budget needs to recognise and address the specific vulnerabilities women farmers face, creating an intersectional framework that acknowledges their contributions and challenges.

By ensuring investment in agri-entrepreneurship, access to credit, equipment, and asset creation, as well as infrastructure facilities, a community-first design that helps women  and the environment  will help make our agricultural practices climate resilient.

Seema Bhaskaran is the gender lead at Transform Rural India, a Delhi-based NGO that is designing solutions to transform rural localities in India. The views expressed are personal
Mumbai headquartered real estate developer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HOABL), has launched around 250 plots to coincide with the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya at a starting price of 1.72 crore for a 1250 sq ft plot. It has invested close to 1200 crore majorly for a 51-acre land parcel in Ayodhya and Phase 1 of its luxury project is currently underway. Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), HOABL, told Hindustan Times Digital that the House of Abhinandan Lodha has received inquiries from non-resident Indians (NRIs) based in UK, US and South East Asia for the luxury housing project in Ayodhya.

Besides domestic demand from Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Meerut for the project in Ayodhya, the company has received inquiries from non-resident Indians (NRIs) based in UK, US and South East Asia, Samujjwal Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), HOABL told Hindustan Times Digital.

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The company plans to invest close to 3000 crore in Uttar Pradesh over the next three to four years.

Its plotted development project in Ayodhya is located around 12 to 15 minutes away from the upcoming Ram Temple. Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan has purchased a plot in The Sarayu, a 7-star mixed-use enclave in Ayodhya by Mumbai-based developer The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL). Real estate industry sources have said that the plot where Bachchan intends to build a home measured around 10,000 square feet and was valued at 14.5 crore.

The starting price for a 1250 sq ft plot is 1.72 crore, the company said. This is the smallest ticket size and buyers can choose as per their needs keeping this as a base, it said.

Ayodhya has the potential to become a globally renowned smart city and the spiritual capital of the world. Our investment in Ayodhya marks the inception of a lasting relationship with Uttar Pradesh, and we are committed to furthering our presence in culturally and spiritually rich areas. Of our 1200 crore investment, Phase 1 of our luxury project is also underway. We have bought a 51-acre land parcel in Ayodhya largely for residential purposes, he said.

Ram Mandir event: 3 things to remember if you want to buy property in Ayodhya

Domestic as well as international demand

The company is a fully digital company, providing a seamless platform for customers to directly purchase land through its app. Approximately 24% of the total interest in the Ayodhya project originates from NRIs in the Middle East and the US. As many as 22% buyers who have expressed interest are from the regions of Lucknow, Kanpur, and Meerut. Additionally, 35% of the interest emanates from Delhi NCR, while the remaining percentage is distributed among various locations such as Mumbai and similar areas, said Ghosh.

This diverse interest showcases the widespread appeal and global reach of our Ayodhya project. Our strategic focus is on nationally significant infrastructure growth corridors, starting with Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh and expanding to Vrindavan, Varanasi, and more, and this aligns with our vision to democratize land in culturally and spiritually rich areas, he added.

Also Read: Ram Mandir consecration ceremony: Is it the right time to invest in real estate in Ayodhya?

Project offerings in Ayodhya

The House of Abhinandan Lodhas (HOABL) project offerings include plotted developments, catering to those who seek the flexibility of designing their own spaces. Additionally, it has super luxury villas and residential towers that offer a blend of modern amenities and community living.

The companys portfolio includes serviced apartments, catering to those who value convenience and a hassle-free lifestyle. The company has also collaborated with The Leela Palaces for the first-of-its-kind pure vegetarian 5-star hotel, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to Ayodhya's real estate, said Ghosh.

Expansion plans

The companys expansion plans include ventures in Rishikesh, Amritsar, Shrinathji, Varanasi, Mathura, and Vrindavan. This expansion strategy reflects our dedication and commitment to the development and growth of these regions, aligning with HoABLs vision to democratize land, adds Ghosh.

Also Read: Cricketer Rohit Sharma leases two apartments in Mumbai for about 3 lakh per month
A dad who vanished after saving the lives of three young children caught in a rip at a popular Aussie beach has been hailed as a national hero.

Dan Cojocea, 43, raced into the water at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach near Port Lincoln, South Australia, at about 4.30pm on Friday, when his two sons and best mates daughter swam out a little bit too deep. Sadly, his body was found just before 8.30am on Monday on a beach nearby, police confirmed to Yahoo News Australia.

Dan Cojocea was on holiday with his family and friends at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach on Friday when he was pulled out to sea. Source: 9News

Panicked friend Riaan Grobler, who saw the horror unfold from the shore alongside Dans wife Alina and their two teenage daughters, has detailed the terrifying moment he watched the gem of a man put his own life at risk.

He went in there without thinking and saved my daughters life  she told me she thought she was going to die, he told Adelaide Now. He just couldnt save himself. Hes a national hero. He is my hero without a doubt.

Dad pushes kids to safety

Riaan recalled how everything just went pear-shaped not long after the three kids entered the water. He said he tried to call them back close to the shore but the waves were so loud they couldnt hear him.

Dan very selflessly made his way towards the kids, he said, adding he then ran to the top of a sand dune to call triple-0. Somehow Dan got the kids out and he just encouraged them to keep swimming.

Riaan, who is not a strong swimmer, said he was able to keep his eyes on Dan for two minutes but then lost him.

Dan Cojocea's best mate Riaan Grobler (left with his daughter, right with Dan) watched the 43-year-old 'selflessly' race to save the kids. Source: 9News

Speaking to 9News, Riaans daughter said Dan grabbed [her] by the arm. I tried to hold onto his shoulder, a big wave came and he pushed me, she said.

All of the children were released from hospital on Sunday after being treated for hyperthermia and minor injuries. Police are preparing a report for the coroner.

Dans wife of 18 years, Alina, attended the beach on Sunday morning with family members. Source: 9News

Missing dad's wife attends search

Dans wife of 18 years, Alina, attended the beach on Sunday morning with family members who travelled from across the country to help hunt for any sign of the beloved father.

Story continues

His sister Camelia Cantell spoke to reporters from the beachside on Saturday and said the family were still holding onto the hope for a one-in-a-million miracle that he would be found alive.

We still hold out the highest hope and we believe in amazing miracles and until theres 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 hell just laugh about his adventures, he likes to tell a good story.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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With just a day left for the Ram Mandirs consecration ceremony, the real estate market in Ayodhya is literally on fire, with land prices in some pockets going up by four to even 10 times than what was prevalent four to five years ago. Ram Mandir consecration ceremony: The real estate market in Ayodhya has seen land prices in some pockets going up by four to even 10 times than what was prevalent four to five years ago.(X/@ShriRamTeerth)

It is primarily the limited organised real estate supply in the market and the tourism potential of the temple city that is fuelling demand, say real estate experts. The upward trajectory is bound to continue till such time that new real estate stock gets built on ground in the next one to two years, they add.

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UP Tourism Department figures show that in the year 2021, only 3.25 lakh tourists visited, whereas in 2022, the number of pilgrims and tourists thronging the city increased 85 times to 2.39 crores. In 2023, the number reportedly is expected to cross 3.5 crore. Reports say that the UP government expects that at least 1 lakh pilgrims are likely to visit the city every day after the January 22 consecration ceremony.

Several townships and private hotels are expected to come up in the city, land for which has been sanctioned by the government. These land parcels are located around Chaudah Kosi Parikrama, Ring Road, and the Lucknow-Gorakhpur Highway.

The state government until now has allotted land to hotels and also set up a few tent cities. According to reports, Ayodhya is expected to see India's first 5-star vegetarian hotel that will have a completely vegetarian menu. Besides Radisson, Taj, and ITC, other reputed hotel chains are also reportedly considering Ayodhya for their expansion plans. Abhinandan Lodha Group is also planning to come up with a luxury hotel in the city.

Also Read: Ram Mandir event: 3 things to remember if you want to buy property in Ayodhya

The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HOABL), a Mumbai-based real estate developer plans to launch a 25-acre plotted development project in Ayodhya after the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple. The project is located almost 15 minutes from the upcoming temple.

Once infrastructure gets fully developed in the temple city, tourists who generally spend a few days may extend their stay by a week and that is likely to give a fillip to business and boost the overall economy in these areas. What this means is that if new malls and other places of tourist attractions come up in and around the site, there would be more tourists wanting to stay there for a longer duration, say experts.

Heres a look at asset classes that may drive demand going forward.

Small housing units, managed holiday homes, senior living expected to drive demand

In the long term, one may see more focus on holiday homes, senior living and wellness centers. The tenure of pilgrimage may go up from two to seven days. Holiday homes may mushroom in the city and some investors may decide to put them up on rent to generate revenues, says Ravi Shankar Singh, Managing Director for Colliers Residential Transaction Services in India.

Having said that these are expected to be small-sized developments, good enough for small families that would serve the purpose of both pilgrimage as well as a short holiday. Some individuals may decide to buy into housing projects that offer them a choice of having an agency to maintain the asset for them and put it on rent in their absence, he explains.

Focus on return on investment and rental income generation

The focus of all investors right now is expected to be on return on investment.

Senior living may also develop in the temple city in the long term. Senior citizens may want to visit the temple town for peace and quietude. NRIs may also want to invest in properties but the focus would be on return on investment. They may visit the place once or twice a year but would want their asset to be monetized the rest of the year. They may want to invest in temple towns but there has to be scope for rental income generation, said Singh.

Also Read: Real estate prices head north in Ayodhya ahead of Ram Mandir event

Sandal Suites, a company that is in the managed residences space, may come up with a serviced apartments product in Ayodhya in the next two to three years. However, its immediate focus will be on launching a serviced apartments project in Shirdi this year, Neeraj Gulati, promoter of Sandal Suites to HT Digital.

Does it make sense to invest in a religious tourism destination such as Ayodhya?

Due to limited land availability and escalating demand, property prices in certain zones have reached almost unaffordable levels. With various townships and private hotels slated to be constructed in Ayodhya, developers anticipate significant opportunities and substantial returns on investment.

Investors can explore both commercial and residential projects in the area, said Ravi Nirwal, Sales Director and Principal Partner, Square Yards.

Property prices in Ayodhya have risen by 5-10 times ever since the construction of Ram Mandir broke ground. Based on the type of property and proximity from the temple, price of land and properties have escalated, with rates fluctuating between 2000 per sqft to almost 20000 per sqft within 5-10 kms of the temple site. With lakhs of visitors expected to visit the temple city post inauguration, it is expected that the prices can go up by 12-20 times in the next decade, he said.

Also Read: House of Abhinandan Lodha to launch 250 plots in Ayodhya today to coincide with the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony

Chaudah Kosi Parikrama, Ring Road, Deokali, Nayaghat are some of the places that are best to invest in Ayodhya. These places are located within a 5-15-kilometer radius of the temple. Also, land parcels across the Gorakhpur Faizabad Highway are also experiencing heightened investment activity, he added.

Opportunity for NRIs

Investing in real estate in Indian religious tourism destinations can be a good alternative for non-resident Indians. They should, however, take into account the stability of the local real estate market, prospective rental yields, resale value, and the long-term appreciation of real estate, said Santhosh Kumar, Vice Chairman - ANAROCK Group.

It is crucial that they comprehend the legal and regulatory framework for property investment in India, including any tax ramifications and property regulations, as many NRIs are not familiar with the country's real estate market. Future growth plans, upcoming infrastructure, and the state of the local economy should also be taken into consideration. It is also important to note that not all such destinations will yield comparable returns, he said.

Fractional ownership models may emerge in the long term

Fractional ownership is the shared owning of an asset among a group of people. Each owner holds a part of the asset and typically shares the benefits and responsibilities that come with it. This includes any increases in the value of an asset.

Prudhvi Reddy, founder and chief executive officer, Assetmonk, is of the view that as tourism increases in this temple town where the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony is taking place, demand for quality hospitality spaces will also increase.

Over time options are expected to emerge wherein an operator may be appointed for a fee to manage housing units bought by investors. These units may then be offered on short term rentals. Yet another model is to do with a property being owned by six to eight co-owners who may appoint a manager to run the rental facility with the rental income being divided equally among them.

At the end of the day the product has to be good and has to be valued right. Most importantly it should make money for the investor, he adds.

Shravan Gupta, founder and CEO of YOURS, a platform for fractional ownership of luxury second homes, told HT Digital that the company may enter Ayodhya after Rishikesh where it is planning to launch a project under the fractional ownership model.

There is demand from HNIs and NRIs. We have started basic groundwork. We will construct or buy from other developers. Rishikesh will be a priority as we have buyer interest but we are also exploring Ayodhya and should have something in the next 12-18 months. It would typically be a 4-5 BHK fully serviced housing unit that would have eight shareholders, he told HT Digital.

The scope of asset appreciation is definitely 8-10 percent, almost similar to Goa. This is because housing supply in Ayodhya is limited right now, he adds.

According to Rohan Sharma, senior director, Research and Real Estate Intelligence Service, JLL, fractional ownership stock in the housing space will emerge only after there is enough residential stock available in the city to buy. At the onset, one may witness only unorganized housing stock (hostels/homestays/local hotel stock) becoming available to tourists. One may also witness an influx of investors who may primarily invest in land and this may drive up property prices further.



Depending on how long-term demand shapes up, a few organized developers may launch small-sized housing units in the next 12 to 18 months. Investors are likely to invest in these projects with the intention of providing serviced apartment opportunities to tourists. Even property listings like Airbnb would find new opportunities in the city, he adds.
Firefighters in Wyoming, United States, are being hailed as heroes for saving a deer trapped in a pond. The incident happened near Wyomings 52nd Street, where the firefighters risked their lives to rescue the deer. United States: Firefighter braving the cold water to rescue the deer trapped in a pond. (Facebook/City of Wyoming - City Hall)

On Monday night, Wyoming Firefighters rescued a deer who was stuck in a pond off of 52nd Street. Thank you, Lt Bennett, EO Kirby and FF Wysocki, for helping complete the rescue and braving the cold water! A reminder to always watch animals and children around water as ice may be thin, reads the caption to the pictures shared on Facebook.

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The first picture shows Lt Bennett, EO Kirby and FF Wysocki posing for the camera, while the second shows a firefighter wading through the cold water to save the deer.

Take a look at the Facebook post here:

The post was shared on January 18 on Facebook. It has since accumulated over 300 reactions and numerous comments from people.

Check out how people reacted to this post:

And there they go again proving how much heart they have, posted an individual.

Another added, Thank you for your bravery and for saving this deer.

Big hearts, thank you all for what you continue to do going above and beyond. Bless you all, shared a third.

A fourth commented, Thank you. Every living thing is important.

What a beautiful, compassionate thing to do. The world needs more people like you. Thank you, expressed a fifth.
Israels Consul General to Mumbai, Kobbi Shoshani, took to X to share a picture of himself seeking blessings at the historic Shree Ram Mandir in Mumbai. In the caption, he mentioned that he plans to visit the holy city of Ayodhya soon. The post comes at a time when the entire nation celebrates the grand consecration ceremony of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. Israeli Consul General Kobbi Shoshani at Ram Mandir in Mumbai. (X/@KobbiShoshani)

Looking forward to visiting Ayodhya very soon. For today I visited the historic Shree Ram Mandir in Wadala, Mumbai, wrote Shoshani while sharing a picture on X. The picture shows Shoshani seeking blessings at the temple.

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Take a look at his post here:

The post was shared a few hours ago on X. It has since accumulated over 29,400 views, and the numbers are still increasing. The share has also garnered numerous likes and retweets. Many even flocked to the comments section of the post to share their thoughts.

Check out how people reacted to this post:

Good to see you sir. Jai Shri Ram, posted an individual.

Another added, You are so blessed.

Lord Ram, we are welcoming you, expressed a third.

A few hours ago, boAts Aman Gupta shared pictures of himself seeking blessings from Lord Ram, Lord Lakshman and Sita Mata, among other deities. Alongside, he wrote, Aaj ka #MondayMotivation hits differently [Todays Monday motivation hits differently].

Earlier, Ritesh Agarwal, the founder and CEO of OYO, paid a visit to Odishas Jagganath temple and shared that he will be in the city for the Pran Prathishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir. He shared the update about his spiritual journey in a video message on X.

Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu visited Ayodhya ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir. He shared two pictures of himself with his family on X and expressed that he feels very blessed to be in the city. He also mentioned that his mother, Janaki, is a devout devotee of Lord Ram.
U.S. President Joe Biden spoke to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Monday about the Red Sea, Gaza and Ukraine. Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, left, and U.S. President Joe Biden (AP/File)

"They talked about what's going on in the Red Sea and the need for a continued international multilateral approach to disrupting and degrading Houthi capabilities," White House spokesman John Kirby told reporters in Washington.

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Biden and Sunak also spoke about the need to bring down the number of civilian casualties and to increase the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza as well as the urgent need for supplemental funding and support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, Kirby said.

"The leaders also agreed that a two-state solution which allows Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security is more important than ever," according to a Downing Street spokesperson.

A Sunak spokesman earlier on Monday said it was "disappointing" to hear of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's opposition to a future sovereign Palestinian state.

Britain, which has backed the Israeli government's right to defend itself against Hamas, wants a "sustainable ceasefire" based on the release of hostages by Hamas.

Sunak's government has also called for Israel to respect humanitarian law and pauses in the fighting in Gaza to allow more aid into the besieged enclave.
Toronto: Canada has announced it will implement an intake cap on the number of applications accepted for study permits for international students which is expected to result in 35% reduction in those numbers this year as compared to 2023. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets skilled trades students, ahead of 19th Canada EU Trade summit, in St Johns, Newfoundland, Canada, on November 23, 2023. (REUTERS)

This was announced by Canadas Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marc Miller on Monday , who said the temporary cap will be placed for two years and the cap for 2025 re-assessed at the end of this year.

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For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 360,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on Monday.

Its unacceptable that some private institutions have taken advantage of international students by operating under-resourced campuses, lacking supports for students and charging high tuition fees all the while significantly increasing their intake of international students, he said at a press conference in Montreal.

IRCC said, Some institutions have significantly increased their intakes to drive revenues, and more students have been arriving in Canada without the proper support they need to succeed. Rapid increases in the number of international students arriving in Canada also put pressure on housing, health care and other services.

There was increasing political pressure on the government to control temporary immigration due to a housing affordability crisis and the announcement came as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau began a Cabinet retreat in the Quebec city.

Students from India comprise the larger national cohort among those with these study permits. Till November 2023, they accounted for 215,190 out of the 579,075 permits issued or 37%, while in 2022, they made for 225,835 out of 548,785, or 41%. The numbers have escalated sharply over the past five years when the number of Indians getting study permits was at less than half the current figure, at 107,070 in 2018.

It also came just after Canada recorded over a million, 1,028,850, study permit holders in the country for the first time ever in 2023.

It also announced that post-graduate work permits will not be issued to international students attending private colleges operating under a curriculum licensing programme. Under such programmes students physically attend a private college that has been licensed to deliver the curriculum of an associated public college and they have been considered a source of abuse of the system. These programmes have seen significant growth in attracting international students in recent years, though they have less oversight than public colleges and they act as a loophole with regards to post-graduation work permit eligibility, IRCC said.

Today, we are announcing additional measures to protect a system that has become so lucrative that it has opened a path for its abuse. Enough is enough. Through the decisive measures announced today, we are striking the right balance for Canada and ensuring the integrity of our immigration system while setting students up for the success they hope for, Miller said.
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. When Im president, I will do everything in my power to show them they made the right decision, Haley said. Meanwhile a memo issued by the Trump Campaign said that Haley needs to drop out of the race to save herself from humiliation. HT Image

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, said the memo issued by the Trump Campaign.

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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), it said.

Option B: Nikki Haley prepares to be absolutely DEMOLISHED and EMBARRASSED 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, it said.

Democratic National Committees national press secretary Sarafina Chitika said 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.

Just like Trump, DeSantis ran a campaign pledging to ban abortion nationwide, rip away access to health care, and gut Social Security and Medicare, while embracing election deniers and whitewashing January 6. Whichever candidate wins the race for the MAGA base will be left running on the same dangerous and unpopular anti-freedom agenda that voters will reject in November, she said.
EU foreign ministers on Monday pressed Israel on an eventual two-state solution with the Palestinians after the war in Gaza, at meetings with the top diplomats from the two sides and key Arab states in Brussels. A tank manoeuvres along the Israel-Gaza border fence, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Israel. (Reuters)(Reuters)

The surprise Hamas attack on October 7 on Israel and the subsequent devastating military response from Israel has plunged the Middle East into fresh turmoil and sparked fears of a broader conflict.

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But while the bloodshed appears to have driven a long-term solution further out of sight, EU officials insist now is the time to talk about finally resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The 27 EU ministers met first with Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz before sitting down separately with the Palestinian Authority's top diplomat, Riyad al-Maliki.

The foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia also held talks with the European ministers.

Israel's assault on Gaza has left over 25,000 Palestinians dead, the vast majority women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Netanyahu has vowed "complete victory" over Hamas after the attacks by the Islamist movement's fighters on October 7 that resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

Hamas militants also seized about 250 hostages and Israel says around 132 remain in besieged Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has drawn condemnation from the United Nations and defied key backer the United States by rejecting calls for a Palestinian state.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell insisted the immediate "priority is to provide support to the people" facing a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

"More death, more destruction, more hardship for the Gaza people, for the Palestinian people, will not help to defeat Hamas or the ideology," he said.

"It will not bring more security to Israel on the contrary."

He insisted that the urgency of the situation on the ground "should not prevent work in the long-run and medium term" towards a conference to work towards an enduring peace.

- 'Only solution' -

Borrell said the Israeli minister "could have made better use of his time" after he showed videos about a potential artificial port island off Gaza and a transport corridor to India to his European counterparts.

"This didn't have much to do with what we were discussing," he said.

Katz ignored questions from journalists over a future two-state solution and said Israel was focused on returning the hostages and ensuring its own security.

Al-Maliki demanded the EU call for a ceasefire immediately and urged the bloc to consider sanctions against Netanyahu for "destroying the chances for a two-state solution".

"Every day that ... we show hesitancy, people are being killed," he said.

The EU has struggled for a united stance on the conflict in Gaza as staunch backers of Israel such as Germany have rejected demands for an immediate ceasefire made by the likes of Spain and Ireland.

But there is overall backing in the bloc for a two-state solution.

"The two-state solution is the only solution, and even those who don't want to know about it have not yet come up with any other alternative," said German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock.

Borrell circulated what he called a "comprehensive approach" towards finding peace, involving the international community holding a conference that would come up with a plan to be put to both the Israelis and the Palestinians.

The paper said the international community should then eventually "set out the consequences they envisage to attach to engagement or non-engagement with the peace plan" by either side.

Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said Israel's "continuation of measures to undermine the two-state solution is dooming the future of the region to more conflicts and more war".

"The whole world is saying the only way out of this misery is the two-state solution. So the party who's standing against the rights of all peoples of the region, including Israelis, to have peace cannot just be left unaccountable," he said.
Dozens of family members of hostages held by Hamas stormed a committee meeting in Israels parliament Monday, demanding a deal to win their loved ones release, as European foreign ministers joined growing international calls for Israel to negotiate on the creation of a Palestinian state after the war. Relatives of Israelis who have been held hostage by Hamas militants since October 7, storm a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem on January 22.(Reuters)

The developments showed the increasing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has dug in on both fronts. He has insisted to the Israeli public that pursuing the devastating offensive in Gaza is the only way to bring the hostages home. At the same time, he has rejected the United States vision for a postwar resolution, saying he will never allow a Palestinian state.

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The dispute over Gazas future  as the war rages with no end in sight  pits Israel against its top ally, the United States, as well as much of the international community. It also poses a major obstacle to any plans for postwar governance or reconstruction of the coastal territory, large parts of which have been left unlivable by Israeli bombardment.

In the most direct comments yet from Saudi Arabia, the kingdoms top diplomat said it will not normalize relations with Israel or contribute to Gazas reconstruction without a credible path to a Palestinian state.

People walk past posters on a wall bearing portraits of Israeli hostages held in Gaza since the October 7 attacks by the Palestinian Hamas group, near the parliament in Jerusalem on January 22, 2024.(AFP)

Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until complete victory over Hamas and to return all remaining hostages after the Oct. 7 rampage in southern Israel that triggered the war. In that attack, some 1,200 people were killed and Hamas and other militants abducted around 250 people.

But more than three months into the war, Israelis are increasingly divided on the question of whether its possible to do both.

Around 100 hostages were freed under a weeklong cease-fire deal in November in exchange for the release of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Around 130 remain captive, but a number have since been confirmed dead. Hamas has said it will free more captives only in exchange for an end to the war and the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu has ruled out such an agreement.

Anger has been growing among hostages families. Relatives of hostages, as well as other protesters, have set up a tent camp outside Netanyahus residence in Jerusalem and vowed to remain until a deal is reached to bring the rest of the captives home. Other protests have called for new elections.

On Monday, dozens of family members of the hostages stormed into a gathering of the Knessets finance committee, holding up signs and yelling, You wont sit here while they are dying there!

These are our children! they shouted. We cant continue with any other agenda, we need to discuss only one thing right now!

Some had to be physically restrained as they shouted at the lawmakers, and at least one person was escorted out. The meeting was briefly suspended but later reconvened.

OVER 25,000 KILLED IN GAZA

Israels offensive has killed at least 25,295 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children.

Medics reported heavy fighting in the southern city of Khan Younis, saying dozens of dead and wounded people were brought to the citys already overwhelmed Nasser Hospital. Families could be seen fleeing south, to areas already packed with hundreds of thousands of displaced people.

Palestinians fleeing Khan Younis, due to the Israeli ground operation, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, arrive in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on January 22.(Reuters)

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 residential areas.

Some 85% of Gazas 2.3 million people have fled their homes, seeking elusive shelter in the south as Israel continues to strike all parts of the besieged enclave. U.N. officials say 1 in 4 people in Gaza are starving as the fighting and Israeli restrictions hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The war has also stoked tensions across the region, with Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen attacking Israeli and U.S. targets.

NETANYAHU UNDER MOUNTING PRESSURE

Netanyahu, whose popularity has plummeted since Oct. 7, faces pressure from the U.S. to shift to more precise military operations and do more to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The United States is also pushing him on its vision for postwar Gaza, calling for a reformed Palestinian Authority to govern the territory and for negotiations to start on a two-state solution. The authority currently governs pockets of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and was ejected from Gaza in 2007 when Hamas took power.

But Netanyahus governing coalition is beholden to far-right parties that want to step up the offensive, encourage the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and re-establish Jewish settlements there. Netanyahu has rejected the entry of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and ruled out any Palestinian state, saying it would endanger Israel.

At a meeting about the war Monday in Brussels, European Union foreign ministers added their voices to the calls for a Palestinian state, saying it was the only way to achieve peace.

French Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Sejourne said Netanyahus rejection of statehood was worrying. There will be a need for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for all.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind?" EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said of Israel. To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill them off?

The comments late Sunday by Saudi Arabias foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, were notable because before the war, the U.S. had been trying to broker a landmark agreement in which Saudi Arabia would normalize relations with Israel. In September, Netanyahu said Israel was on the cusp of a deal.

In an interview with CNN, host Fareed Zakaria asked: Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

Thats the only way were going to get a benefit, Prince Faisal replied. So, yes.

When asked if oil-rich Saudi Arabia would finance reconstruction in Gaza, he said, As long as were able to find a pathway to a solution ... then we can talk about anything.

But if we are just resetting to the status quo before Oct. 7, in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, were not interested in that conversation.

The Palestinians seek a state that would include Gaza, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war.

Israel views all of Jerusalem as its capital and the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people. It has built scores of settlements across both territories that are home to hundreds of thousands of Jewish settlers. Peace talks broke down nearly 15 years ago.
YOGYAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Indonesias Mount Merapi erupted Sunday, spreading searing gas clouds and avalanches of lava down its slopes as other active volcanoes flared up across the country, forcing the evacuation of thousands. HT Image

On the densely populated island of Java, Merapi unleashed clouds of hot ash and a mixture of rock, and lava that traveled up to 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) down its slopes, said Agus Budi Santoso, the head of Indonesia's Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Center. A column of hot clouds blasted 100 meters (about 109 yards) into the air as ash blanketed several villages without casualties, he added.

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Merapi is the most active out of more than 120 volcanoes across the country. Sunday's eruption is the latest since authorities raised its alert level to the second-highest in November 2020 after sensors picked up increasing activity. Residents living on the slopes were advised to stay 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) away from the craters mouth and be aware of possible threats from flowing lava.

In 2010, an eruption killed 347 people and displaced 20,000 villagers.

The 2,968-meter (9,737-foot) mountain is about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Yogyakarta, an ancient center of Javanese culture and the seat of royal dynasties going back centuries. About a quarter million people live within 10 kilometers (6 miles) of the volcano.

Several other active volcanoes also blew up this weekend, prompting authorities to evacuate thousands of residents, said Indonesias Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation in a statement released on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. No casualties were reported, it said.

The agency said Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Nusa Tenggara province spewed hot clouds as high as 700 meters (2,300 feet) into the air on Sunday, as more than 6,500 people fled to shelters.

Also on Sunday, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province erupted again, its third biggest flare-up this month, albeit without discharging lava. About 500 residents living near it were evacuated. Last month, it erupted, killing 23 climbers and injuring several others.

Mount Semeru in East Java province released searing gas clouds and rivers of lava on Saturday, as did Mount Ibu on Halmahera island in North Maluku province which shot a column of hot ashes as high as 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) into the air.

In December 2021, Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java island, erupted, leaving 48 people dead and 36 missing.

Indonesia, an archipelago of 270 million people, is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity because it sits along the Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped series of seismic fault lines around the Pacific Ocean.

___

Associated Press writer Niniek Karmini in Jakarta, Indonesia, contributed to this reported.
Ahead of the pran-pratishtha (consecration ceremony) of Lord Ram Lalla in the newly built Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on Monday, North American nation Mexico got its first Lord Ram Temple in the city of Queretaro on Sunday. City of Queretaro in Mexico gets the first Lord Ram temple.(X/ @IndEmbMexico)

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The consecration ceremony of the deity, held amidst hymns and songs chanted by the Indian diaspora, was performed by an American priest with Mexican hosts. The temple was later inaugurated and opened for devotees.

The idols consecrated in the newly built temple were brought from India.

The Indian Embassy in Mexico took to social media platform X to share the news. "First Lord Ram temple in Mexico! On the eve of 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya, city of Queretaro in Mexico gets the first Lord Ram temple. Queretaro also hosts the first Lord Hanuman temple in Mexico," it said.

While sharing the images of the temple and the ceremony, it added, "The 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony was performed by an American Priest with Mexican hosts & the idols brought from India. The atmosphere was filled with divine energy as the hymns & songs sung by the Indian diaspora reverberated throughout the hall."

Meanwhile, the temple town of Uttar Pradesh has geared up for the much-awaited grand pran-pratishtha (consecration ceremony) of Lord Ram Lalla in the newly built Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on Monday afternoon. The sacred ceremony, marking the consecration of the deity within the temple's sanctum sanctorum, is set to go down in history as it carries profound cultural and symbolic importance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the consecration ceremony officiated by a team of priests led by Varanasi priest Lakshmikant Dixit. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. On January 18, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha: Hindustan Times' complete coverage

The historic ceremony will be attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country, and dignitaries from all walks of life, including representatives of various tribal communities, will also attend the ceremony. The mega event has drawn attention not only from the nation but also from global audiences.

Uttar Pradesh Police Department authorities said on Sunday that over 13 thousand security personnel have been deployed in and around Ayodhya to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the mega temple event.
Disappointed shoppers are "in mourning" as a major change to Target sees its shelves across the country filled with Kmarts Anko branded products.

Couple Kaitlin and Josh raced down to their local Target to nab a few bargains after they heard the news that prices had been slashed on popular homeware products. But the couple were gutted to find they were too late  and "every product in the store was replaced with Kmart's Anko brand.

The retail giant announced last year it would be merging its operations with Kmart, and the change was originally expected to affect just the internal management of the two iconic brands. Eagle-eyed customers recently spotted empty Target shelves with Yahoo confirming Target would make room to stock "select Anko products" from February, 2024.

I quite literally ran to Target this morning when Id seen everyone talking about the clearance sale but my Targets already turning into Kmart, Kaitlin, from NSW, said in a video captioned "petition to bring back Target".

Target shopper Josh was not happy to discover the change. Source: TikTok

The camera pans across the Target store where shelves are full of the Anko-branded products. "Theres literally nothing Target left in the store, its all Anko," said Kaitlin. She adds that even the popular bedding and homewares have been replaced with Kmart's brand.

"Target bedding was elite and now its just all Kmart," she said. I dont understand the point.

Its s**t, her partner Josh added.

A NSW Target store filled with Anko products in its home and pet departments. Source: TikTok

Target 'confident' customers will like the move

Earlier this month, Yahoo News Australia confirmed Target would be stocking "select Anko products" from February 2024, following the announcement of the merger in July 2023.

"While we are confident customers will like the curation of products, like always, we will continue to test and learn in response to customer feedback," a Target spokesperson said.

Despite the news last year, many Aussies have expressed their surprise and are upset about the change coming into effect.

Story continues

Aussies divided over Target change

Despite Targets confidence in their decision, some Aussies have reacted poorly to the change. "Im mad about it," said one shopper. "If I wanted to shop at Kmart I would shop at Kmart. Target was always that bit nicer."

Another said they were "broken to their core," adding: "Im in a state of mourning now."

While many are upset, others are delighted. "If this is true Im happy I have a Target literally a 2-minute drive from my house," said one person

A second, who said her closest Kmart is two hours away, said she was "happy" with the change.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
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. HT Image

Nationally, winter storms have claimed at least 72 lives around the U.S. this January, many involving hypothermia or road accidents.

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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.

_____

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.
Saudi Arabia's top diplomat Prince Faisal bin Farhan has said that the relations between his country and Israel won't normalise unless there is a path to a Palestinian state. Palestinians fleeing Khan Younis, due to the Israeli ground operation, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, arrive in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, January 22, 2024. REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa(REUTERS)

Prince Faisal made the comments in an interview with CNNs Fareed Zakaria GPS on Sunday. The host asked: Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

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Thats the only way were going to get a benefit, Prince Faisal replied. So, yes.

While addressing a nationally televised news conference, Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the idea of complete independence to Palestine. Netanyhu highlighted that Israel "must have security control over all the territory west of the Jordan (River)."

ALSO READ| Donald Trump's 2024 VP race turns into an open audition in New Hampshire

Netanyahu's remarks had shocked Israel's friend- the US. His remarks came after the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently emphasised the need of Palestinian independence for ensuring the genuine security of Israel.

Before the start of Israel-Hamas war on October 7, the US was trying to broker an agreement in which Saudi Arabia would normalise relations with Israel.

On the question of Saudi Arabia financing reconstruction in war-torn Gaza, Faisal highlighted his country's reluctance unless there is a pathway to a solution of the Israel- Palestine problem.

As long as were able to find a pathway to a solution, a resolution, a pathway that means that were not going to be here again in a year or two, then we can talk about anything, the diplomat said.

But if we are just resetting to the status quo before Oct. 7, in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, were not interested in that conversation, he added.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas war has claimed the lives of thousands on both sides and created a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. A vast majority of Palestinians have been displaced from their homes due to the airstrikes and bombardment of the region.

There was a brief ceasefire between Israel and Hamas from 24 November 2023 to 30 November 2023. But since then, Israeli offensive in Gaza has been going on every day. Efforts from the international community and mediators are on to convince Israel for ceasefire.

Netanyahu recently said that the ongoing war would continue for months until the complete dismantlement of Hamas terror network and release of hostages held in captivity in Gaza. Israel says that more than a hundred hostages are still held under captivity in Gaza.
The Government-supported self-help group has increased its income-based criterion for families to qualify for its programmes from this month (Jan 2024). HT Image

In a press statement on Sunday, Sinda said it has revised its per capita income criterion to benefit a larger number of households. It has increased the criterion from SGD1,000 to SGD1,600 from January 2024, following which 11,000, or 12 per cent, more Indian families in Singapore are expected to benefit.

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Per capita income is derived from the total monthly nett household income divided by the number of household members.

Sinda supports about 25,000 beneficiaries across its range of programmes and support initiatives, of which about 60 per cent use the per capita income criterion.

The programmes using the per capita income criterion include the Sinda Tutorials for Enhanced Performance, a subsidised tuition programme, and bursaries for pre-school to tertiary students.

Sinda said SGD5 million more is projected to be spent in 2024 to support households because of the larger pool of people qualifying for its financial assistance schemes and programmes. It has set aside additional funds to ensure it can meet the needs of a larger number of beneficiaries.

Speaking to the media at Sindas appreciation tea on Sunday Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Ministers Office, noted that Sinda is bringing its programmes, subsidies and bursaries to a much larger group of people.

We are also very mindful of the fact that the cost of living has increased over the years. So we want to make sure that no ones left behind, The Straits Times quoted Rajah as saying.

So, weve essentially widened the net, and we hope that more people will receive assistance this way.

The Minister pointed out that Sinda arrived at the new SGD1,600 ceiling by looking at Singaporeans income distribution.

She noted that the 20th percentile of monthly household income from work per household member was SGD1,623, as at 2022.

So, Sindas revised the (per capita income criterion) to include a broader income band, and this aligns with Sindas intention and goal to serve the lower-earning bands of our community, she said.

Rajah further added that middle-income groups will also have access to essential support and be able to enjoy full fee waivers when they enrol in Sinda programmes.
The United Nation has declared that the scheduled nitrogen hypoxia execution of an Alabama death row prisoner this week amounted to torture and inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. A federal judge decided last week that Alabama can use nitrogen gas to execute Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58, who was found guilty of killing a preacher's wife in 1988 as a murder for hire(AP )

A federal judge recently decided that Alabama can use nitrogen gas to execute Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58, who was found guilty of killing a preacher's wife in 1988 as a murder for hire. Elizabeth Sennett's husband, who was heavily in debt and wanted to collect payment on insurance, paid Smith and the other man $1,000 each to kill her.

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He survived the previous attempts of Alabama authorities to execute him by lethal injection in 2022. Should it be implemented, it would be the first new way of execution since the introduction of fatal injection in 1982. The state says that the nitrogen gas will render the victim unconscious very quickly, but opponents have compared this never-before-used method of execution to experiments on humans.

Meanwhile, OHCHR Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasan called on Alabama state authorities to halt Smiths execution that is scheduled for 25-26 January, and to refrain from taking steps towards any other executions in this manner.

Alabama already sought to execute Smith unsuccessfully by lethal injection in 2022. Smith also has ongoing proceedings in federal court against his upcoming execution which have not been finally resolved, she said in Geneva.

Also Read: US citizen, convicted of killing his father, executed in Saudi Arabia

What is nitrogen hypoxia and has this been ever used in the US history?

According to the state's plans, Smith would die from a lack of oxygen if a respirator-style face mask is placed over his mouth and nose to replace breathable air with nitrogen. Although nitrogen hypoxia has been approved for use as an execution technique in three states  Alabama, Mississippi, and Oklahoma, none have applied to carry out a death sentence.

Alabama's lethal injection chamber at Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore(AP )

Is this different from gas chamber?

Yes precisely. Historically, several states have carried out executions using the deadly chemical hydrogen cyanide. Walter LaGrand was the last prisoner to be executed in a US gas chamber. He was the second of two German brothers who had been given death sentences for the 1982 bank manager murder in southern Arizona. LaGrand died in 1999 after eighteen minutes.

78% of the air that humans breathe is made up of the colorless, odorless gas nitrogen, which is safe to breathe when combined with the right amount of oxygen. According to the notion of nitrogen hypoxia, if the air is made entirely of nitrogen, Smith will become unconscious and eventually die from a lack of oxygen.

A large portion of nitrogen exposure-related deaths reported in medical journals are the result of suicide attempts and industrial mishaps involving nitrogen leaks or mix-ups that claim workers' lives.

How will Alabama carry out the execution?

The state stated in a court filing that it will cover Smith's face with a "NIOSH-approved Type-C full facepiece supplied air respirator"a kind of mask usually used in industrial settings to give life-preserving oxygenafter Smith is strapped to the gurney in the execution room.

After reading Smith the execution warrant and asking if he has any final remarks, the warden will turn on "the nitrogen hypoxia system" from a separate room. As per the state procedure, the nitrogen gas will be provided for a minimum of fifteen minutes or for five minutes after an EKG flatline indication, whichever is longer.

Is Alabama facing backlash ahead of the execution?

Nitrogen gas will be used as a lethal penalty, despite the fact that veterinarians and medical professionals have denounced this method. In 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association published recommendations on euthanasia, which stated that while nitrogen hypoxia can be used to end a pig's life in specific circumstances, it is not a suitable procedure for other mammals due to the creation of a anoxic environment that is distressing for some species.

Smith is being considered as a potential "test subject" for a new method of execution, according to his attorneys.

A physician testified on Smith's behalf stated that the low oxygen level could induce nausea, causing him to choke to death on his own vomit.

The unproven technique "may amount to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment under international human rights law," the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights warned in a statement.

Any legal challenges ahead?

On Friday, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments, when Smiths attorney will appeal a federal judges January 10 decision to allow the execution move forward. They contend that Alabama is attempting to use Smith as a "test subject" for an experimental method of execution because he survived the state's previous attempt to execute him by lethal injection in 2022.

Because Mr. Smith will be the first condemned person subject to this procedure, his planned execution is an experiment that would not be performed or permitted outside this context, Smiths attorneys wrote in the Monday court filing. They also argued that the state violated his due process rights by scheduling the execution when he has pending appeals.

On the other hand, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshalls office will appeal to the court to let the execution proceed.

If the execution in Alabama proceeds, other states might try to use the similar method. However, if the court blocks the execution, it could slow thesearch for nitrogen gas as a substitute for capital punishment.
The Indian diaspora gathered at New Yorks Times Square, lighting up the iconic location to celebrate the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. People were seen donning traditional attire, dancing, singing bhajans and other songs. People were seen donning traditional attire, dancing, singing bhajans and other songs (@UNKNOWN__EDIT/X)

On the screens at Times Square, pictures of Lord Ram were displayed. Many waved the saffron flags with Rams picture on them.

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Meanwhile, at Times Square, members of the 'Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir' distributed laddoos.

Prem Bhandari, a member of the organisation, the the event is being celebrated in the US with a lot of grandeur. He appreciated Modi for connection people across the glove with this event.

"We never thought that we would witness this divine day in our lifetime. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony will take place very soon. People in Times Square are also celebrating this and the place is looking no less than Ayodhya. People of the Indian diaspora are celebrating this event at various places," Bhandari said.

Some billboards at Times Sqaure were lit up with Lord Ram's illustration.

The consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya will take place today. It is a 50-year-project of the BJP that thousands have been waiting for. Indian rime Minister Narendra Modi flew to Ayodhya to take part in the historic event.

This historical moment has very fortunately come into the lives of all of us. We have to take a new resolution for the country and fill ourselves with new energy, Modi said.
A man who works for Google has been arrested for killing his wife on January 16 at a home on Valley Way, Santa Clara, California. Liren Chen, 27, was found staring blankly into space with the dead body of his wife Xuanyi Yu, who was a Google engineer, nearby. Liren Chen has been accused of murdering his wife Xuanyi Yu (LinkedIn)

Chen was found kneeling outside a bedroom where Yu was deceased on the floor. He was found spattered with blood with an extremely swollen and purple arm. Yu had severe blunt force injuries to her head, according to the Santa Clara District Attorney, the Daily Mail reported.

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On January 16, police went to the house around 11 am following a welfare call. A friend of Chen told police that he was concerned about the couple and that Chen was refusing to answer his phone or his door. He added that he could see Chen inside the house, motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly. The officers subsequently entered the house and arrested Chen.

According to the district attorney's office, cops found Yus body 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, they said.

They added, Chens right hand was extremely swollen and purple. He had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands and scratches on his arm.

Property records revealed that in April 2023, the couple bought a home at 714 Valley Way for $2.05 million.

District Attorney Jeff Rosen said there has been an increase in the number of 911 calls for domestic violence. Domestic violence deaths have been falling in our county but that does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence, he said. 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.

Google spokesperson Bailey Tomson said in a statement to New York Post, We are shocked and deeply saddened by what has happened to Xuanyi. Our thoughts are with her family at this time, and we will work to provide support to them and to co-workers who are processing this tragic news.

Chens LinkedIn profile says he worked on the YouTube shorts algorithm for Google, and Yus says she was a software engineer. Both studied in China at Tsinghua University and at the University of California San Diego.
The Attorney General's Office is looking into reports of a fake robocall, which has used US President Joe Biden's voice to encourage people not to cast ballots in New Hampshire's presidential primary on Tuesday. US President Joe Biden and Republican front-runner Donald Trump (AP)

"Your vote makes a difference in November, not this Tuesday," stated the message sent on Monday, January 21. Attorney General John Formella stated in a statement on Monday that while the voice in the robocall sounds similar to that of President Biden, this message appears to have been artificially manufactured based on preliminary findings.

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According to Formella, the communication appears to have been "spoofed" to make it appear that it was sent by the treasurer of a political committee that has been backing President Biden's write-in campaign for the New Hampshire Democratic Primary.

These messages appear to be an unlawful attempt to disrupt the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election and to suppress New Hampshire voters. New Hampshire voters should disregard the content of this message entirely, Formella said in a statement. Voting in the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election does not preclude a voter from additionally voting in the November General Election.

Also Read: Trump maintains wide lead over Haley in New Hampshire poll as GOP primary shrinks to two-person race

The recording of the call released

What a bunch of malarkey, the voice started, using a term so-characteristic of 81-year-old Biden it has been widely used in meme-making.

You know the value of voting Democratic, it stated as per NBC. Our votes count. Its important that you save your vote for the November election. Well need your help in electing Democrats up and down the ticket.

Voting this Tuesday only enables the Republicans in their quest to elect Donald Trump again. Your vote makes a difference in November, not this Tuesday. If you would like to be removed from future calls, please press two now.

Biden write-in campaign condemns fake robocall

The Biden write-in campaign has denounced the fake robocall. "This is deep fake disinformation designed to harm Joe Biden, suppress votes, and damage our democracy," said Aaron Jacobs, a spokesperson for the write-in campaign, as per Axios.

"We are confident that New Hampshire voters will respond by showing up to the polls and making clear that we won't be intimidated by these dirty tricks," Jacobs added.

Biden's name is not listed on the primary ballot in New Hampshire due to a disagreement with New Hampshire lawmakers and the Democratic National Committee.

Also Read: Joe Biden mocks Donald Trump for confusing Nikki Haley with Nancy Pelosi: We agree on this much

Democrats sound alarm over fake call, Trump campaign says not us

Meanwhile, Democrats demanded the makers of the fake call mimicking Biden's voice should be prosecuted to the fullest extent for attempting an attack on democracy itself.

I want them to be prosecuted to the fullest extent possible because this is an attack on democracy, Kathy Sullivan, ex-state party chair, told NBC News.

Im not going to let it go. I want to know whos paying for it? Who knew about it? Who benefits?

A representative for Congressman Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who is launching an independent candidacy for the Democratic nomination, said: Any effort to discourage voters is disgraceful and an unacceptable affront to democracy. The potential use of AI to manipulate voters is deeply disturbing.

Not us, we have nothing to do with it," former US President Donald Trump's campaign spokesperson told NBC.

A New Hampshire primary election poll released on Monday shows that Trump is leading by a significant margin. The poll also indicates that more independent voters intend to cast ballots on Tuesday.
Donald Trump is aiming to secure the Republican presidential nomination as the race narrows down to a two-person competition, following the withdrawal of Florida governor Ron DeSantis less than 48 hours before the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday. (FILES) US President Donald Trump meets with Nikki Haley, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations in the Oval office of the White House on October 9, 2018 in Washington, DC. (AFP)

Unless faced with a defeat in the Granite State or a closely contested second place from the remaining rival, Nikki Haley, the path to Trump's nomination to challenge President Joe Biden in November may significantly hasten.

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The former president achieved a decisive victory over DeSantis in Iowa last week, with Haley trailing in third place. Historically, no candidate has failed to clinch the Republican nomination after winning the first two states.

Make-or-break moment for Nikki Haley

This pivotal moment makes the New Hampshire primary a make-or-break scenario for Haley, Trump's former UN ambassador, who lags behind her former boss in polling for what is considered her stronghold.

Trump, at 77, has intensified criticisms of Haley in the past week, labeling her as "not smart enough" and asserting that she lacks the respect of voters. During an endorsement event for DeSantis, Trump praised the governor as a "very capable person" and suggested that the endorsement played a crucial role in securing votes.

Haley, in turn, targeted Trump's mental acuity, highlighting a recent confusion where he mistakenly identified her as Democrat Nancy Pelosi during a rally. She remarked on his perceived decline and the chaos that follows him.

With DeSantis no longer in contention, Haley is pinning her hopes on New Hampshire's high number of independents, who can vote in either party's primary. These voters typically lean towards more moderate candidates and are seen as pivotal for what some analysts describe as Haley's "last stand."

However, overcoming a 15-point deficit to Trump in polling averages poses a significant challenge for Haley, especially as her recent momentum surge appears to have stalled.

If Nikki wins she can emerge as a genuine threat to Trump

A strong performance by Haley on Tuesday could rejuvenate her campaign and position her as a genuine threat to Trump, particularly as she heads to her home state of South Carolina in late February.

New Hampshire, though a relatively small delegate prize, holds significance as a bellwether for nationwide electoral success. The state's primary is seen as setting the tone for subsequent races, including "Super Tuesday" on March 5, where 874 delegates are up for grabs.

While New Hampshire's outcome may not significantly impact the overall delegate count for the Republican nomination, the state plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and momentum leading up to subsequent contests.

Significance of New Hampshire in 2024 race

Despite its small delegate count of 22 out of 2,429, New Hampshire is considered more indicative of nationwide electoral trends than some more conservative states. Aides anticipate that Trump could be in a position to secure victory by mid-March, likely before any of his pending legal trials commence.

In contrast, Democrats are also holding their primary in New Hampshire on the same day as Republicans. However, President Biden is not on the ballot due to disputes between local officials and the national party over scheduling. Campaigners are still planning to write in Biden's name on the ballot in hopes of him surpassing other candidates.

The Democratic National Committee has deemed the New Hampshire primary illegitimate, but Biden is expected to secure the nomination comfortably, regardless of the primary's outcome.
After Ron DeSantis announced an end to his 2024 presidential bid, former US President Donald Trump hailed the Florida Governor as really terrific person and appreciated him for the endorsement, asserting that he looks forward to defeating "crooked Joe Biden". Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and US former President Donald Trump(AFP )

DeSantis' decision comes just days before the New Hampshire primary set for Tuesday, making it a two-person contest between Trump and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley.

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Id like to take time to congratulate Ron DeSantis, a really terrific person  for having run a great campaign for president, Trump stated during a rally at New Hampshire on Sunday, The Hill reported. He ran a really good campaign. I will tell you, its not easy. They think its easy doing this stuff, right? Its not easy. I appreciate that, he said about the endorsement.

Targetting the incumbent US President, the Republican frontrunner further asserted: And I also look forward to working with Ron and everybody else to defeat crooked Joe Biden. We will have to get him out.

Haley hopes for a strong showing in the Granite State on Tuesday. In her interview with Bash on Sunday, the former UN ambassador hinted that she was confident she will be the next Republican presidential contender. According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQs polling average, the former South Carolina Governor is currently trailing Trump by about 11 points in New Hampshire.

Also Read: Nikki Haley raises concerns over Trump's 'mental fitness' after he 'confuses' her with Nancy Pelosi

Trump announces DeSanctimonious nickname officially retired

During his campaign stop, the former president was asked if he would still be using the DeSanctimonious moniker he penned for the Florida governor.

You said, Will I be using the name Ron DeSanctimonious. I said that name is officially retired, Trump told the crowd in New Hampshire, as shown in a video shared by Trump aide Margo Martin on X (formerly Twitter).

Ahead of the 2022 midterms, Trump initially referred to DeSantis as Ron DeSanctimonious amid rumors that he was considering a GOP challenge to the former president. During his campaign, DeSantis mainly downplayed the nicknames and criticism, claiming that last year's name-calling was "petty" and "childish."

In his Sunday video announcement, DeSantis has indicated his support for Trump. Reacting to it, Trump told Fox News Digital that receiving his endorsement was a great honor.

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 stated in the statement.

Will Trump choose DeSantis as his running mate?

Last year in October, DeSantis clearly stated he will decline any offer to be Trumps 2024 running mate.

When asked the hypothetical question on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures, he said: No. Im running for president We need somebody that can serve two terms. So far DeSantis name is not on the list of Trump's likely options for a new vice-presidential running mate.

On Friday, Trump shot down the notion of selecting Haley, an Indian-American candidate for president, as his running mate, claiming that she was not of that caliber.

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, Trump said at a rally in Concord.

When you say certain things, it sort of takes them out of play, right? I cant say, Shes not of the timber to be the vice president and then say, Ladies and gentleman, Im proud to announce that Ive picked', Trump added.
VP, VP, VP," shouted the crowd as potential contenders for former US President Donald Trump's 2024 running mate pick have been appearing across New Hampshire to extend their support, making the run-up for the Tuesday's Republican presidential primary looks like an audition. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks on stage during a campaign event in Rochester, N.H., Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)(AP)

On Saturday, Trump left room for speculation after he stated that he "may or may not release something" on his vice presidential pick during the next few months. "The person that I think I like is a very good person, pretty standard. I think people won't be that surprised, but I would say there's probably a 25% chance it would be that person," the Republican front-runner told Fox News.

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While Trump primarily attends major rallies, his representatives at smaller gatherings are becoming crucial in helping him maintain his hold on the GOP. They are also promoting themselves and demonstrating that loyalty matters the most to the ex-US president.

Last week, three legislators who are on Trump's vice presidential short list -- Sens. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) -- encouraged Trump's supporters to vote in New Hampshire while highlighting their personal ties to him.

Donald Trump calls Tim Scott a great guy

During one of his rallies, Trump called Scott a great guy and that "he endorsed me."

He went on to point other South Carolina figures who have backed him, such as Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Gov. Henry McMaster (R).

"Almost everybody in South Carolina has endorsed me. What does that tell you?" the former president added.

Meanwhile, Senator Scott, the most well-known Black Republicans in the country, hasn't ruled out the possibility of serving as Trump's running mate if he wins the Republican nomination for 2024.

According to Scott, he hopes that young people would "look to their future and believe that America is their oyster" and that "they can have whatever they want."

"You can take it any way you want," Scott replied when asked whether this indicated the door was wide open. He reiterated his desire to make America and Americans believe in our future in a way that we do not today.

Scott even accompanied Trump to New Hampshire from Palm Beach, Fla., on Friday.

Vance and Stefanik say they'd be happy to serve in a Trump admn

Stefanik presented Trump to supporters at a Concord, New Hampshire event on Friday, and visited a diner on Saturday morning to promote him, and then spoke to the ex-president's followers at his state office in Manchester.

Stefanik emphasised to the media and electorate that she was the first congresswoman to support Trump in this election season.

Im proud to be one of his strongest supporters, particularly at key moments, she told media. Asked if she would consider being his VP, Stefanik said, Of course I'd be honored, I've said that for a year, to serve in a future Trump administration in any capacity.

Vance repeated Trump's criticism of the continuous attempts in Congress to come up with a bipartisan immigration and border security bill.

Reluctance to compromise on a border bill has been voiced by Trump and his most devoted congressional allies. Many Democrats have interpreted this move as a reluctance to grant President Joe Biden any more legislative victories prior to the election.

"If you're undecided, throw up your hand. I want to try to persuade you," Vance told a crowd in Kingston.

"I was not a Trump guy in 2015 and every time I talk to [Trump], he reminds me of that," he continued.

Who are the other potential candidates up for the VP job?

Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota, Senate candidate Kari Lake of Arizona, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia are among the other politicians who have made appearances in Iowa and New Hampshire to support Trump.

A day after withdrawing from the presidential race, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy joined Trump on stage in New Hampshire and gave a passionate speech while receiving cries of "VP" from the audience.

Senior campaign adviser Jason Miller remained silent on talk of possible running mates. However, he maintained that Trump's supporters in Iowa and New Hampshire "have drawn massive crowds and have all done a fantastic job of energizing voters to turn out for President Trump. So were very happy and very excited with both the jobs that theyve all done but as well, the reception that theyve all received."

Trump has already ruled out Indian-American Haley as 2024 running mate. At a Concord rally last week, he declared that his former ambassador to the United Nations is "not presidential timber."
Before it became the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center in Auburn, it was a welcome center.

In 2016, then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced a $55 million tourism initiative. Part of the plan was the establishment of 10 welcome centers, which Cuomo said would "serve as gateways to New York's unparalleled natural beauty." A welcome center would be located in each of the state's 10 economic development regions. Central New York is comprised of Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga and Oswego counties.

A press release from Cuomo's office listed the locations for the welcome centers, with Auburn named as the host city for the central New York facility. A month later, the city picked the center's future home: A parking lot across from Memorial City Hall.

The project was called a welcome center for nearly a year. In September 2017, then-Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul visited Auburn to announce the state would provide $10 million for the construction of the facility. That's when the building's name, the Equal Rights Heritage Center, was revealed.

A few months after Hochul's visit, the Central New York Welcome Center opened in Destiny USA, a Syracuse shopping center.

Those two developments, roughly three months apart, help explain the city of Auburn's new pursuit of the welcome center designation. State Sen. Rachel May has introduced legislation that would move the central New York welcome center to Auburn.

According to the legislative summary, the bill "will help give the Equal Rights Heritage Center the recognition it deserves and fulfill a commitment made in 2016 by designating it the official Central New York visitors center and extending a contract to support that work upon completion of any existing contracts with other facilities."

The proposal is part of the city's push to get more state support for the Equal Rights Heritage Center. While the state funded its construction and provided a one-time $50,000 grant, there hasn't been any other assistance for the operation of the facility. The city covers those expenses, with $262,000 budgeted for the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Auburn City Clerk Chuck Mason told The Citizen in November that state funding would be helpful because the technology inside the center, from iPads to large video boards, will need to be updated or replaced.

The rising costs of maintaining the facility are another issue. When the city first budgeted for the center's operations in 2019-20, the spending plan included $162,500. That line item has increased by nearly $100,000 in four years.

With the welcome center designation, Auburn could receive state aid to help it run the Equal Rights Heritage Center. The state provides funding to other tourism hubs, including the Finger Lakes Welcome Center in Geneva. The city of Geneva received $125,000 for the welcome center's operations in the 2023-24 budget.

Hochul's 2024-25 budget proposal continues funding for select welcome centers, but does not include any aid for the Equal Rights Heritage Center in Auburn. There is funding, as there has been in the past, for the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County to run the center's Taste NY market.

City officials believe state funding is needed for the long-term sustainability of the center, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in November.

The Equal Rights Heritage Center drew more than 22,000 visitors from November 2018 through 2019. Last year, attendance was 11,304  the highest number of visitors since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Judge Lewis Kaplan has postponed writer E Jean Carroll's trial against former President Donald Trump until Tuesday. The announcement was made after a juror reported feeling ill, and one of Trumps lawyers, Alina Habba, told the court that at least one of her parents had contracted Covid-19. E. Jean Carroll (R) with her lawyers, leaves the Manhattan Federal Court for her civil defamation trial against former US President Donald Trump after it was canceled for the day, in New York City on January 22, 2024. (AFP)

Both Trump and Carroll were present in the courtroom when the cancellation was announced.

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"The juror in seat no. 3 reported to Andy early this morning that he was on the way to the city but feeling hot and nauseous, so I sent him home for the day with instructions to get a Covid test and report back. The rest of the jury is here. It was reported to me that Ms Habba reported to Andy that she was not feeling well," Kaplan said as per The Guardian.

Habba, however, requested that the trial be put on hold because she wanted the entire panel. The judge approved deferral till the next day. Trump's attorney then urged the judge to call Trump to the stand on Wednesday due to the New Hampshire primary.

"So tomorrow is the New Hampshire primary and he needs to be in New Hampshire," Habba stated. "He was planning to testify  clearly, he flew in last night to be here. I would just need his testimony to be Wednesday in light of the news about the juror today."

Judge Kaplan responded that he would not make a decision regarding an adjournment at this moment.

Also Read: Donald Trump's lawyer grills E Jean Carroll as attention seeker

Judge rejects Trump's latest mistrial motion

Meanwhile, Judge Lewis Kaplan dismissed Trump's latest motion for a mistrial.

During E. Jean Carroll's cross-examination last week, during which Carroll testified that she had deleted some emails that contained threats to her safety, Trump's lawyer Alina Habba requested a mistrial. The judge rejected it right away.

In a letter sent to Kalpan, Habba restated the request and stated that it is impossible to determine the exact date of the threats without the records.

Carroll allegedly started getting hate mail, according to Trump, after an extract of her book detailing the assault claims was posted online by New York magazine. Trump's lawyers contended that he shouldn't be held accountable for the actions of others.

Also Read: Social media fumes as video shows Elise Stefanik seemingly calling E. Jean Carroll a liar: 'It's so nauseating'

Trump, E Carroll arrived at Manhattan federal court

Before the court hearing, Trumps motorcade reached Manhattan federal courthouse just before 9am.

Carroll also arrived at the court and a small crowd of supporters shouted in part weve got your back E. Jean" and Trump is the biggest loser.

Last week on Wednesday, the former president was present at the federal court proceedings in Manhattan. During the trial, the former Elle writer described how her reputation was damaged after Trump's dismissed her rape claim in 2019. Carroll confronted him in court for the first time during her testimony.

Judge Lewis Kaplan warned that Trump would be removed from court if he refused to behave properly.

Carroll is suing Trump for defamation for the second time in this trial. The former US president was convicted guilty of sexual abuse and defamation by a jury in May, and Carroll was given a $5 million award in damages.

She is suing Trump because he rejected her allegation that she was raped by him in June 2019. Damages will be determined during this trial.
There was a moment, nearly a week ago, when Ron DeSantis appeared to realise that there was no point competing against Trump, especially in front of a GOP crowd which still wasnt over its MAGA fever. U.S. Republican presidential candidate Florida Governor Ron DeSantis talks to reporters after walking in the Fourth of July Parade in the rain in Merrimack, New Hampshire, U.S., July 4, 2023. (REUTERS)

Speaking at an event, he laid out the real truth about the GOP that no candidate has dared voice: You can be the most worthless Republican in America, if you kiss the ring, Trump will say you are wonderful. You can be the strongest, most dynamic Republican and conservative in America but if you don't kiss that ring, they will try to trash you. You deserve a nominee that's going to put you first, not himself.

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Now, DeSantis has stepped down and endorsed Trump. Following our second-place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on our way forward. If there was anything I could do to produce a 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 today suspending my campaign, DeSantis said in a video message posted on X, a social media platform.

Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance. 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, 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. A repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents, De Santis added.

Trump Lite

DeSantis tried to appeal to the same base that loved Trump and appeared hoped to be the new MAGA hope when he launched his bid in May 2023 on a Twitter Spaces feed.

His campaign however was dominated by infighting. His oratory also failed to make the mark. While Trump was absent in the GOP debates, DeSantis was continuously dismantled by Trumps stand-in surrogate, Vivek Ramaswamy.

DeSantis had huge plans with The Never Back Down super PAC promised to spend $200 million on a field operation that Axios called a slow-motion train wreck as his polling endured a months-long free fall.

While DeSantis star was highest after he swept his states elections in November 2022 and Trumps candidates lost in Senate races.

As Prashant Jha pointed out in his piece in Hindustan Times: DeSantis faltered with a poorly managed campaign, ultra-conservative messaging, limited public speaking skills, and a generally less than charismatic demeanor. DeSantiss campaign failed to distinguish itself from Trump on core concerns that mattered to Republican base, which then felt that Trump himself was best positioned to implement Trumpism. On the other side of the political flank, DeSantiss messaging alienated independent voters or those disillusioned with Democrats but skeptical of Trump, a constituency that has helped keep Haley in the race.

DeSantis banked his entire political capital on Iowa but still finished 30 points behind Trump and only 2 points ahead of Nikki Haley. As the campaign progressed, DeSantis criticised Trump more but it was a tad difficult to appeal to a GOP-MAGA base while criticising their chief deity.

What will be interesting is to see how Trump handles DeSantis exit and whether his allies will be back in the fold.

For their part, Trumps campaign welcomed DeSantis dropping out and said: 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.

While we will have to wait and see how far Nikki Haley can go, Ron DeSantis failure is a redux of the 2016 GOP debates when Trump chomped up and spit out rival Republican candidates until he was the last man standing.
President Joe Biden mocked Donald Trump for confusing Nikki Haley with Nancy Pelosi. Biden posted a video on X, which highlightsHaleys comments from a rally on Saturday, January 20, as well as moments from Trumps rally on Friday, January 19, and from previous rallies. President Joe Biden mocked Donald Trump for confusing Nikki Haley with Nancy Pelosi (AP Photo/Ben McKeown, File, AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

Last night, Trump is at a rally. And hes going on and on, mentioning me multiple times as to why I didnt handle January 6 better. I wasnt in office then. Theyre saying he got confused, Haley said in the ad.

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He got confused. He got confused and said he was running against Obama. He never ran against Obama. Dont put our country at risk like this, she said.

I dont agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi, Biden captioned the video.

After Trump named Haley instead of Pelosi in his speech by mistake, Haley took a dig at him and in mental fitness while speakingin Keene. "The concern I have is I'm not saying anything derogatorybut 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, she said.

Trump, on the other hand, said at a Manchester, New Hampshire rally that he "aced" a cognitive test. "I'll let you know when I go bad. I really think I'll be able to tell you," he said. "I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago. Is that possible?"

Ronny Jackson, the White House physician in 2018, administered the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to Trump at the time. The test is designed to screen for mild cognitive dysfunction. At the time, Trump scored 30 out of 30 on the test, with Jackson saying, The president is mentally very sharp, very intact.
One year after the tragic Monterey Park shooting, president Joe Biden has paid tribute to the people who lost their lives. He also remembered those who died two days later when a gunman opened fire in Half Moon Bay, killing seven people. Joe Biden steps out of Saint Edmond Roman Catholic Church after attending mass in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on January 20, 2024 (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP)(AFP)

As many as 11 people diedat the Star Dance Studio during aLunar New Year celebration in January last year when a gunman opened fire. The suspect,72-year-old Huu Can Tran ofHemet, later died from aself-inflicted gunshot wound at a SWAT scene in Torrance.

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Just two days later, a shooter murderedseven people at two landscaping nurseries in Half Moon Bay in San Mateo County, south of San Francisco. The suspect, who was soon taken into custody, was identified as Chunli Zhao, a 67-year-old Half Moon Bay resident.

Jill and I pray for the families of the victims, Biden wrote on X.

In the weeks that followed, I announced an Executive Order containing new actions to crack down on the epidemic of gun violence, he added in the thread. We launched the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and my Administration is implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.

Biden urged Congress to do its part. Its long past time we banned assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, ended immunity from liability for gun manufacturers, passed a national red flag law, enacted universal background checks, and required safe storage of guns, he wrote.

In an extended statement published by the White House, Biden said, These shootings shocked the conscience of our nation. In the weeks that followed at my State of the Union address, Jill and I were honored to host Brandon Tsay, who heroically disarmed the Monterey Park shooter and prevented further bloodshed. I also traveled to Monterey Park, where I spent hours meeting with families who lost loved ones, and announced an Executive Order containing new actions to crack down on the epidemic of gun violence tearing our country apart.

He added, In the wake of the tragic shootings in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, California has also taken action, passing more than 20 new gun safety laws and investing in proven solutions like gun violence intervention programs. Other states should follow their lead.
Nikki Haley has reacted to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the presidential race, saying on Sunday, January 21, may the best woman win. The news of DeSantis quitting came as Haley addressed a crowd at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, New Hampshire, alongside the state's Gov. Chris Sununu. Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley participate in the CNN Republican Presidential Primary Debate in Sheslow Auditorium at Drake University on January 10, 2024 in Des Moines, Iowa (Photo by CHIP SOMODEVILLA / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

Haley was met with cheers after she announced that DeSantis had quit. I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, he's been a good governor and we wish him well, Haley said, according to the Daily Mail. Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.

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DeSantis, however, blasted Haley before leaving. He said Trump had his 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.

Haley also told CNN's Dana Bash that DeSantis did not tell her he had planned to quit. No, he didn't call or inform me. And, look, this is what the fellows do, she said. She also said that she doesn't take politics personally.

DeSantis announced his decision to quit in a video address, saying, 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  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,he added. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign.

Trump told Fox News Digital in a statement that he was very honored to have DeSantis endorsement. 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, Trump said.
California or Ayodhya? Before the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony for the Ram Mandir, the Indian community in California's Silicon Valley organized a large rally to commemorate this significant occasion. More than 1,100 enthusiastic participants, bearing saffron banners featuring the image of the Ram temple, took part in a massive car rally in the Bay Area. Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony LIVE Updates: Photo of Ram temple before the grand consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. (AP)

Golden City dazzles ahead of Ram Temple festivities

On Saturday night, the march, which commenced in Sunnyvale and proceeded to the Warm Spring BART station and Golden Gate, concluded with a splendid Tesla car light show. Digital billboard vehicles displaying various scenes from the Ramayana along with the image of Lord Ram and the grand Ram temple built in Ayodhya fueled the excitement to another level.

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Also read: Ayodhya celebrations at Times Square: Indian diaspora celebrates Ram Mandir ceremony

Devotees, granted valid police permission, joyously danced at various locations, bringing along traditional instruments like dhol nagara. The rally, orchestrated by six dedicated Hindu volunteers, spanned a distance of more than 150 km, culminating in Fremont in the Bay Area.

The Tesla light show with over 300 cars

Hundreds of Teslas, their lights synced in a mesmerizing dance, took center stage at a pre-Ram Mandir celebration, drawing in participants from afar who coordinated online. Prime Minister Modi's on his way for the big ceremony Monday. The grand consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will take place at 12PM IST (1:30 AM EST)

Ayodhya celebrations at Times Square

The grand celebration extended to New York's iconic Times Square, where the Indian diaspora assembled to illuminate the renowned location in honor of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Attendees adorned traditional attire and engaged in joyful activities, including dancing and singing bhajans and other songs.

Take a look;
Senator Tim Scott is engaged! Scott proposed to his girlfriend Mindy Noce on Saturday, January 20, saying it is 'the most exciting thing Ill do with my life besides making Jesus my Lord. Scott asked the interior designer to marry him on the beach in Kiawah Island in South Carolina. Tim Scott asked Mindy Noce to marry him on the beach in Kiawah Island in South Carolina (NBC News screenshot)

Ive been very patient and prayerful, and Im really excited and somewhat nervous, Scott told the Washington Post.

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Scott suspended his presidential campaign days after the third presidential debate. I love America more today than I did on May 22. But when I go back to Iowa, it will not be as a presidential candidate. I am suspending my campaign, he said at the time.

Scott said he asked Noces parents for permission to marry her two weeks before Christmas. He then spent a whole month planning his proposal.

Scott said it was difficult to persuade Noce not to wear gloves on Kiawah Island since the weather was cold. My joke is as soon as I saw her picture, I figured it out. But the truth is about two weeks into it, I knew there was something very different about her and her faith, Scott said.

In our first conversation that went about an hour and a half or two, we ended up deciding to do a Bible study together, he added.

Scott introduced Noce as his girlfriend on stage at the end of the third Republican debate on November 8 last year. The revelation came after months of speculation about Tims romantic life ever since his campaign was launched. Scott was asked about Mindy at the post-debate spin room, to which he replied, She's great. He told reporters that Mindy and he have been dating for several months, according to the Daily Mail. Noce is a Design and Renovations Manager at Atlantic Properties.
Former US President Donald Trumps campaign declined to allow an NBC News correspondent to accompany him on his campaign rallies in New Hampshire on Monday as the assigned pool reporter, leading to access being blocked for the day. Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at the Rochester Opera House on January 21, 2024 in Rochester, New Hampshire. (Getty Images via AFP)

Correspondent Vaughn Hillyard was told "that the pool would be cut off for the day if he was the designated pooler by NBC News," according to a pool report accessed by the Deadline. However, the reporter in question attended a Trump campaign event in New Hampshire later that day.

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NBC News has not released any statement yet. This move by the Trump's campaign came after Hillyard had a conversation with the ex-president's surrogate Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y, regarding the defamation case Trump faces against writer E. Jean Carroll. A jury found last spring that Trump did sexually assault her and also later defamed her. She was awarded $5 million in damages. Last week, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan threatened Trump with expulsion after he denied to stay quiet while Carroll testified.

After the exchange between Stefanik and the reporter, Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung stated that the press pools are used by the campaign when "it makes sense for both sides."

A jury last year held Trump responsible for sexual assault of Carroll, and a trial is currently going on in New York to determine additional damages.

When Hillyard asked Stefanik if she believed E. Jean Carroll, she seemed annoyed and responded: They are all witch hunts against Donald Trump and the reason is he is pulling ahead of Joe Biden.

The media is so biased. This is just another example of the media being out of touch. Its not me. Its not the media, its a jury that found it," she added.

Asserting that the media is "so out of touch" with the American people, Stefanik added: Like 2016, you are going to see the American people speak out loudly and clearly with their vote.

Also Read: Social media fumes as video shows Elise Stefanik seemingly calling E. Jean Carroll a liar: 'It's so nauseating'

Stefanik says she's be happy to serve in a Trump admn

On Friday, Stefanik presented Trump to supporters at a Concord, New Hampshire event and also spoke to the ex-president's followers at his state office in Manchester.

Stefanik emphasised to the media and electorate that she was the first congresswoman to support Trump in this election season.

Im proud to be one of his strongest supporters, particularly at key moments, she told media. Asked if she would consider being his VP, Stefanik said, Of course I'd be honored, I've said that for a year, to serve in a future Trump administration in any capacity.

While Trump primarily attends major rallies, his representatives at smaller gatherings are becoming crucial in helping him maintain his hold on the GOP. They are also promoting themselves and demonstrating that loyalty matters the most to the ex-US president.

Trump shuts down Nikki Haley running mate speculation

On Saturday, Trump left room for speculation after he stated that he "may or may not release something" on his vice presidential pick during the next few months. "The person that I think I like is a very good person, pretty standard. I think people won't be that surprised, but I would say there's probably a 25% chance it would be that person," the Republican front-runner told Fox News.

Trump's senior campaign adviser Jason Miller remained silent on talk of possible running mates. However, he maintained that Trump's supporters in Iowa and New Hampshire "have drawn massive crowds and have all done a fantastic job of energizing voters to turn out for President Trump. So were very happy and very excited with both the jobs that theyve all done but as well, the reception that theyve all received."

The Republican front-runner has already ruled out Indian-American Haley as 2024 running mate. At a Concord rally last week, he declared that his former ambassador to the United Nations is "not presidential timber."
A New Hampshire primary election poll released on Monday shows that former President Donald Trump is leading by a significant margin. The poll also indicates that more independent voters intend to cast ballots on Tuesday. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and ex-US President Donald Trump(REUTERS)

Trump's popularity rose to 52% in the Monmouth University/Washington Post poll of 712 New Hampshire voters who could vote in the GOP primary, from 46% in the previous survey carried out in November 2023.

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According to the poll conducted from January 16 to 20, the current primary is less of an interactive event than it was in 2016.

While 52% of prospective voters say they will vote for Trump in Tuesday's Republican primary, 34% say they would vote for former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. Though Haley's percentage of the vote has risen by 16 points since November, Trump's lead has remained constant. His support has actually increased since the decline as wellit is now up 6 points from 46%. With a support percentage of 8%, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is well behind the leaders and essentially steady from 7% in November.

Also Read: Shes not of that caliber': Trump says Nikki Haley won't be his VP pick

The percentage of registered independent voters who indicate they intend to cast a Republican ballot increased from 52% in November to 63% in January. Notably for Haley, a third of those independent voters claim to have supported Democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden in the 2020 contest.

Despite Haley's larger lead among these independent voters, the poll indicates that even a rise in the number of independent votes is not likely to be enough to narrow the gap with Trump. The former president has the backing of 38% of independent voters, while Haley has 48% of them.

The question arises here is that why the race for the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary is crucial. The reason is -- Iowa picks corn; New Hampshire picks presidents, asserted former New Hampshire Gov. John Sununu.

Also Read: Donald Trump's 2024 VP race turns into an open audition in New Hampshire

Voters tend to trust Trump over Haley over broad range of issues: Poll

New Hampshire potential Republican primary voters generally have more faith in Trump than in Haley on an extensive range of issues. The former president excels in immigration policy; 62% of respondents have more confidence in him to handle this matter than in Haley (26%).

Regarding who voters trust more to manage abortion policy, the split is slightly wider -- 40% of voters trust Trump, 29% trust Haley, and 22% trust both equally.

If Trump emerge victorious, as the polls indicate, he will be positioned to secure the Republican nominee without facing a significant challenge.

After his astounding Iowa caucuses win, Trump is also hoping for another victory in New Hampshire, the state that initially helped him clinch the GOP nominee in 2016.

In a December 2023 CBS poll conducted in New Hampshire, Trump maintained a double-digit lead against Haley, with 44% of probable GOP primary voters supporting him. But that survey was conducted before the withdrawal of Ron DeSantis, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

What's next after New Hampshire?

After New Hampshire, the focus is going to shift on Nevada, which will hold state-run primary on February 6 and a party caucus on February 8.

Delegates will be chosen by the party based on the caucus. Haley won't be on the ballot, but Trump will be there. Trump is not going to be on the primary ballot, but Haley is. The contenders have not made Nevada a priority and there has been just roughly $1 million spent till now.

However, in New Hampshire, $77.5 million has been spent on campaign ads since the beginning of last year, according to data compiled by the ad-tracking firm AdImpact and analysed by NPR.

Haley and her supporters have been the biggest spenders. Team Haley has spent $30.9 million, which is doubled than Trump and his allies as they have poured in $15.7 million.
Thomas Rhodes, who spent nearly 25 years behind bars for the death of his wife, has filed a federal lawsuit against former Ramsey County Medical Examiner Michael McGee and other authorities, alleging the fabrication and withholding of evidence that led to his wrongful conviction.

Rhodes, 64, was released from prison a year ago after the state's Conviction Review Unit deemed the evidence unreliable, as per to Fox News.

Lawsuit Claims Wrongful Conviction

Rhodes, convicted in 1998 of first- and second-degree murder in the drowning death of his wife Jane Rhodes during a boat ride on Green Lake in Spicer, Minn., has now turned to the legal system to seek justice. The lawsuit, filed in US District Court in Minnesota, not only targets McGee but also former Kandiyohi County Attorney Boyd Beccue (deceased), Hennepin County sheriff's office Capt. William Chandler, and Ramsey, Hennepin, and Kandiyohi counties.

The suit alleges that McGee and Chandler fabricated unsupported conclusions and gave false testimony, leading to a wrongful conviction. It also claims that Beccue collaborated with McGee to manufacture a case against Rhodes, even before probable cause existed. The lawsuit contends that Beccue provided circumstantial, unrelated facts to McGee, who then disregarded scientific evidence and altered the determination of Jane Rhodes' death from "pending investigation" to "homicide."

Rhodes' release a year ago marked a historic moment as the first individual freed from incarceration due to an investigation and case review by the Conviction Review Unit, established in 2020. The Minnesota Attorney General's Office, citing unreliable evidence and McGee's questionable testimony, agreed to vacate Rhodes' conviction.

The lawsuit, seeking a jury trial, monetary relief, and punitive damages, alleges constitutional violations and malicious prosecution. Rhodes is represented by People's Law Office in Chicago and Minneapolis attorney Tim Phillips.

Brad Thomson, an attorney from People's Law Office, emphasized Rhodes' innocence and the egregious misconduct of the defendants. The lawsuit aims to shed light on the defendants' actions and deliver the justice owed to Rhodes for the nearly 25 years lost, according to Twin Cities.

Read Also: Iran Attacks Alleged 'Sunni Militant Bases' in Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions in Middle East

Reviews Prompted on Medical Examiner's Credibility

Efforts to reach McGee and Chandler for comment were unsuccessful. Spokespeople for Hennepin County and the Hennepin County sheriff's office declined to comment on pending litigation. Kandiyohi County's administrator did not respond to requests for comment, and a Ramsey County spokeswoman redirected inquiries to the Ramsey County attorney's office.

In light of concerns over McGee's credibility, the Ramsey County attorney's office initiated a review of cases where McGee had been involved. This move followed a federal appeals court judge's decision, labeling McGee's testimony in the murder trial of Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. as "unreliable, misleading, and inaccurate." Rodriguez's death sentence was overturned.

The ongoing review in Ramsey County does not encompass Rhodes' case, but the lawsuit will be shared with the Prosecutors Center for Excellence (PCE), which is conducting the review. Updates on PCE's evaluation of Ramsey County cases involving McGee will be shared with the public at an appropriate time, according to Dennis Gerhardstein, spokesman for the Ramsey County attorney's office.

While Rhodes' murder convictions were vacated, he still faces a conviction for second-degree manslaughter. McGee's testimonies in numerous cases remain under scrutiny as the legal battle for justice continues, CBS News reported.

Related Article: US, UK Airstrikes in Yemen Reportedly Delay Iran from Shipping Supplies to Houthi Rebels
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 12, GAC MOTOR's Mexico company ("GAC MOTOR Mexico") inaugurated its new office and conducted a plaque unveiling ceremony. This marks another milestone for GAC MOTOR in the Mexican market, signaling the completion of the initial setup and official establishment of localized operations.

Zhang Fan and Wei Haigang unveil the plaque together; photo credit: GAC Group

Going forward, the company aims to comprehensively enhance brand building, accelerate channel expansion, refine sales and after-sales service systems, and strengthen team development in the region.

The inauguration of the new office represents a pivotal moment for GAC MOTOR's presence in the strategic market of Mexico, a country with immense potential for market growth in the Americas. The company has strategically established GAC MOTOR Mexico, successfully completing milestones such as company registration, brand listing, and team establishment.

To expedite the introduction of new vehicle models into the Mexican market, a delegation led by Zhang Fan, Vice President of GAC R&D Center, and Wei Haigang, General Manager of GAC International, visited certification companies in Mexico. They sought insights into local automotive admission regulations, certification processes, and discussed relevant topics regarding the upcoming vehicle models entering Mexico in the current year.

During the visit, the team also met with local dealers to deepen cooperation and further optimize market positioning, aiming for a comprehensive improvement in sales performance. Engaging in extensive discussions with the GP AUTO team, a local dealer partner, they explored topics related to channel expansion, sales, and after-sales service systems. Additionally, they toured the GAC MOTOR Mexico showroom, assessing progress in showroom construction and the supporting infrastructure for after-sales services. The delegation also conducted visits to several sales outlets of Chinese automotive brands in the local market, providing crucial insights for GAC MOTOR to refine its market strategy in Mexico.
A 26-year-old security guard, Solomon Martinez, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection to a gruesome homicide case involving a decapitated body.

The shocking incident unfolded on January 10, when police responded to a reported homicide near Fountain Creek, just south of Highway 47, as per Daily Mail.

Grisly Find in Martinez's Pocket

On the same day, the suspect, Martinez, was apprehended while on duty at the Sangre De Cristo Arts Center in Pueblo. According to court documents, a disturbing find was made during Martinez's arrest - a plastic bag containing a human hand was discovered in his pocket.

During the arrest, police observed a red-colored smear on Martinez's car, and his hands were found to be cut up. Martinez initially offered an explanation, attributing the cuts to his dog, but later claimed they resulted from picking up dog waste among rocks.

In a baffling twist, Martinez initially informed the police that someone had borrowed his car and may have been responsible for the woman's murder. However, when confronted with a photograph of the victim, he changed his narrative, admitting to hiring her as a prostitute on the night of January 8 and supposedly dropping her off between two and three in the morning.

Martinez allegedly turned to his roommate, Joshua Mazzurco, seeking assistance in disposing of the body. Mazzurco, recounting the horrifying encounter, stated that Martinez offered him $1,000 to dig a ten-foot hole. Despite the initial request, Martinez later claimed it was a joke.

Mazzurco, visibly shaken, expressed, "I was beyond terrified. Like, I can't even put into words how physically scared I was." Records indicate that Mazzurco did not assist Martinez, but he did witness him washing blood off his hands at a car wash, according to Hawaii News Now.

Read Also: Survey: Religious Americans at Risk of Being Targeted, Isolated by Society

Sheriff Reacts to Security Guard's Arrest

Former Pueblo County Sheriff Dan Corsentino, owner of the security guard company employing Martinez, expressed shock at the revelations. Corsentino affirmed that Martinez had no criminal history and passed all background checks before being hired just two weeks before his arrest.

The victim, whose identity is yet to be disclosed by the Pueblo County coroner, was found dead at Fountain Creek with her head severed, according to court documents.

When Martinez was taken into custody, a police officer discovered a human hand inside a plastic bag in the left chest pocket of his jacket. Martinez claimed, "I had a hand in my jacket for two days," sparking further intrigue among investigators.

Authorities believe the severed hand belongs to the deceased woman found in the creek. Martinez, however, maintains that he hired her as a prostitute but denies involvement in her death or dismemberment.

Notably, someone associated with Martinez's roommate contacted the police, claiming to be a witness to the body being dumped in Fountain Creek on January 10. Martinez's roommate, Joshua Mazzurco, and his wife, who were living with Martinez, have not been charged or considered suspects in the woman's death.

Despite reaching out for comments, the Pueblo Police Department declined to provide any information on the ongoing investigation. Martinez is scheduled to appear in court on January 23, as indicated by an online court docket search. As of now, he has not entered a plea, and no legal representation has been listed.

Currently incarcerated at the Pueblo County jail, Martinez faces a daunting $1 million cash-only bond, Inside Edition reported.

Related Article: Maine Judge Suspends Donald Trump's Ballot Exclusion Until Supreme Court Rules on Issue
Ford F-150 Light production cuts have been confirmed by the American automaker. These business adjustments would affect thousands of employees.

But the question is, will these Ford workers face terminations or just be transferred to other manufacturing operations?

Ford confirmed the production cuts for its F-150 Lightning EVs on Friday, Jan. 19. The car manufacturer said operations will be explicitly reduced at Rouge Electric Vehicle Center.

This facility is where Ford builds its popular EV pickup trucks. What's sadder about this business change is that the operation at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center is being reduced to one starting on Apr. 1.

Ford F-150 Lightning Production Cuts

According to Fox Business' latest report, the Ford F-150 Light production cuts will affect around 1,400 workers at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center.

Ford explained that the production cuts were needed so that they could match output with customer demand. This means that the demand for its Ford F-150 Lightning is getting slower.

"We are taking advantage of our manufacturing flexibility to offer customers choices while balancing our growth and profitability. Customers love the F-150 Lightning, America's best-selling EV pickup," said Ford CEO Jim Farley.

"We see a bright future for electric vehicles for specific consumers, especially with our upcoming digitally advanced EVs and access to Tesla's charging network beginning this quarter," added Farley via CNBC.

Read Also: Tesla Could Lose to BYD as Chinese EV Maker Boasts Producing Over 3 Million New Energy Vehicles

Affected Ford Employees To Be Transferred

The giant American automaker announced that affected Ford employees will be transferred to another manufacturing plant. However, only around 700 workers, which is 50% of the affected workforce, will be given the chance.

Lucky Ford employees will be transitioned to the Michigan Assembly Plant, which handles the production of Ford Ranger and Bronco models.

Aside from transferring 700 existing employees, Ford said that it plans to create nearly 900 new jobs as part of the new third crew at the Michigan Assembly Plant.

The car manufacturer said that these new workers are needed to meet the demand for the popular Bronco and Bronco Raptor, as well as the all-new Ranger and Ranger Raptor pickup trucks.

"The company is moving nimbly across its global footprint to capitalize on its balanced lineup and serve customers with the right mix of gas-powered, hybrid, and electric vehicles while optimizing financial returns," explained Ford.

Once the employee transitions are complete, Ford said that the Michigan Assembly Plant will increase its vehicle production to seven days a week, with three teams working two shifts.

Related Article: Ford Reports $1.7 Billion Lost in Earnings, 100,000 Car Decline in Sales Due to Strike
In a report from the Associated Press, Japan has made a successful landing on the moon.

This makes Japan the fifth country to achieve this feat alongside China, India, the United States, and the Soviet Union. The spacecraft itself had no Astronauts on board though. This is part of an ongoing project.

The Mission Objective

Also despite this, there have been some hiccups as officials have yet to pinpoint the exact location of the spacecraft's landing. The head of the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science, Hitoshi Kuninaka, states that they believe that rovers have been launched and have been sending data back to Earth. However, there is also a potential power supply issue.

The main goal of this mission was to test new developments in landing technology that would allow for landing "where we want to, rather than where it is easy to land," the JAXA has stated. To emphasize the significance of this project Aeronautics professor at the Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo, Takeshi Tsuchiya stated "It is necessary to show the world that Japan has the appropriate technology in order to be able to properly assert Japan's position in lunar development." He further emphasized the moon's significance in resource exploration and highlighted its potential as a launchpad for missions to other planets, such as Mars.

Other experts have concurred with Tsuchiya's statement saying that the success of this project would provide a boost to Japan's profile in the space technological race that is taking place around the globe.

The spacecraft itself is titled Smart Lander for Investigating Moon which can be hyphened down to simply SLIM. However, it has also been given the nickname "the Moon Sniper" most likely due to the goal of the project to land on a specifically small target. The mission itself came shortly after an unnamed private U.S.-based company also attempted to carry out its own lunar mission but the spacecraft itself fell short of expectations after the craft began to leak fuel.
German Defense Minister has warned that Vladimir Putin could attack NATO within five to eight years. This comes on the heels of an approved plan by the Baltic nations to build defenses along their borders with Russia and Belarus, said The Telegraph.

"We have to take into account that Vladimir Putin will one day even attack a NATO country," said Boris Pistorius, the German defense minister.

"Our experts expect a period of five to eight years in which this could be possible," he told Der Tagesspiegel, a German newspaper. "At the moment I don't think a Russian attack is likely."

Europe is dealing with a "military threat situation ... that has not existed for 30 years," he added. "We hear threats from the Kremlin almost every day - most recently against our friends in the Baltics."

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania signed an agreement on Friday to build bunkers over the next few years to bolster the defenses along their borders with Russia and Belarus, a steady ally of Moscow. Under the agreement, signed in Riga, the three countries will "construct anti-mobility defensive installations in the coming years to deter and, if necessary, defend against military threats," the Estonian defense ministry said in a statement obtained by The Telegraph.

The Kremlin has bolstered threats against neighboring nations since launching its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, especially as Sweden and Finland have moved to join the NATO alliance. Russian leaders have also issued dire warnings toward Poland, revealed The Hill.

Swedish officials have been warning their citizens that "war could come" to the country. Sweden is still waiting for approval from Hungary and Turkey before it can join the military alliance, while Finland has already joined.

Pistorius said Swedish warnings were "understandable from a Scandinavian perspective," considering its proximity to Russia.

"We also have to learn to live with danger again and prepare ourselves - militarily, socially, and in terms of civil defense," Mr. Pistorius warned.

When Will The NATO Exercises Begin?

The Independent reported NATO exercises are due to begin next week. Dubbed Steadfast Defender 24, the exercises "will show that NATO can conduct and sustain complex multi-domain operations over several months, across thousands of kilometers, from the high north to central and eastern Europe, and in any condition," a statement from the 31-member organization said.

Troops will be moving to and through Europe until the end of May in what is described as "a simulated emerging conflict scenario with a near-peer adversary" - essentially Russia.

The stockpiles of weapons and ammunition has been drained across Europe, the US, and beyond in supporting the defense of Ukraine and will take years to replenish at the current rate of production.

Britain's defense secretary, Grant Shapps, has said that the UK will send 20,000 troops backed by advanced fighter jets, surveillance planes, warships, and submarines, to take part in the exercises - with many being deployed in eastern Europe from February to June.

With the Russian president's rhetoric towards NATO nations becoming increasingly hostile, war could come at any time.
Actor Alec Baldwin has been indicted by a grand jury in New Mexico for the second time on charges of involuntary manslaughter stemming from the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the Western film, "Rust."

Prosecutors had initially dismissed charges against Baldwin based on evidence the hammer of the revolver might been modified, allowing it to fire without the trigger being pulled. The single-page indictment filed with the First Judicial District Court in Santa Fe charges Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter under two alternative bases of law - causing death by "negligent use of a firearm" and by acting "without due caution or circumspection," said Reuters.

Special prosecutor Kari Morrissey said she would file new charges against Baldwin if the independent test showed the reproduction long Colt .45 revolver was in "working condition."

Friday's indictment followed an independent forensic test concluding that Baldwin would have had to pull the trigger of a revolver he was using in a rehearsal for it to fire the live round that killed Hutchins. The finding was the same as a previous FBI test on the firearm.

Baldwin's lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, issued a statement on Friday on behalf of their client saying, "We look forward to our day in court," published Reuters.

Some Background

People Magazine reported Gloria Allred, an attorney for Hutchin's family responded to the indictment saying, "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.

Added Allred, "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."

Movie armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was also previously charged with involuntary manslaughter. She has pled not guilty and is set to stand trial in February.

Baldwin has denied pulling the trigger and claims he was not responsible for the cinematographer's death.
An Atlas Air Boeing 747-8 cargo plane that took off from Miami made an emergency landing after suffering an engine failure that led to one catching fire.

The aircraft was known to be flying with five crew members who safely returned and the entire incident ended with no injuries being reported. The situation has prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to start an investigation into the matter.

Atlas Air Cargo Plane Engine Fire

The NTSB also said that after opening the investigation, it has started collecting information to evaluate and determine the scope of the probe. On social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, unverified videos showed flames shooting out of the left wing of an aircraft while it was flying in the air.

The air freight company later said that the crew of the affected plane followed all standard procedures and safely returned to Miami International. It added that it would conduct an inspection to find the cause of the incident, as per Reuters.

U.S. air safety expert John Cox said that having problems with one engine of a plane is generally not a significant event. However, he noted that the latest incident sounded like an uncontained engine failure due to the hole and NTSB investigation.

Cox said that on the interior of the airplane's engine, there are many rotating parts that include blades. He noted that an engine is designed to try and contain a blade separation and engineers conduct testing and certification for them. However, there are instances of uncontained failure, which elevate the investigative significance of the matter.

Read Also: American Airlines Flight Attendant Charged for Allegedly Recording Young Girls in Aircraft Restroom

The air safety expert said that incidents of uncontained engine failures, such as in 2018 that involved a Southwest Airlines flight where a passenger was partially sucked out the window, are coming under increased scrutiny.

Investigators handling the latest case will be looking at questions such as the age of the engine as well as its maintenance record. Boeing issued a statement saying that it was supporting Atlas Air and the NTSB investigation into the matter, according to Yahoo News.

Emergency Landing Following Engine Failure

The Atlas Boeing 747-8 involved in the incident was found to be eight years old and was powered by four General Electric GEnx engines. GE Aerospace noted that it was providing technical assistance to the FAA as well as the NTSB.

The latest incident also comes against the backdrop of two high-profile jetliner accidents that have already happened this year. On Jan. 2, an Airbus A350 passenger plane operated by Japan Airlines collided with a Coast Guard aircraft in Tokyo, leading to the death of five crew members.

A Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet made an emergency landing a few days later following a cabin panel blowout. The incident prompted the FAA to temporarily ground so that officials can perform safety checks.

The captain of the recent incident said that the issue involved engine number two and that it occurred during the climb out following takeoff. Authorities later revealed that the incident caused a "softball-sized" hole above the engine following examinations, said the Daily Mail.



Related Article: Alec Baldwin Facing Involuntary Manslaughter Charge Again
The Los Angeles Innocence Project has chosen to take up Scott Peterson's case, which involves the murder of the defendant's pregnant wife and their unborn son in 2002.

The non-profit organization is responsible for working to overturn wrongful convictions. It filed documents in court this week to re-examine the case of Peterson, who is currently serving a life sentence inside a California prison.

Scott Peterson Murder Case

The organization issued a statement saying that it "represents Scott Peterson and is investigating his claim of actual innocence." On Friday, the San Mateo County Supreme Court confirmed the organization's filing.

The director of the LA Innocence Project, Paula Mitchell, said in a declaration that was included in the filing that there was newly discovered evidence. She noted that this revealed "deficiencies" in the case's discovery process.

The organization's decision to take up Peterson's case resurfaced attention on the defendant's murder conviction. It has, for years, generated widespread coverage by tabloids and news organizations, books, and at least one made-for-TV movie, as per the New York Times.

Pat Harris, who was one of Peterson's lawyers in the trial, said that they were very excited that attorneys at the LA Innocence Project are lending their considerable expertise. He noted that he would represent his former client in the event of a new one.

The case involving the suspect occurred in 2002 on Christmas Eve, when 27-year-old Laci Peterson, a substitute teacher who was pregnant with the couple's first child, was reported missing from the home that she and her husband shared in Modesto, California.

Read Also: American Airlines Flight Attendant Charged for Allegedly Recording Young Girls in Aircraft Restroom

In April of the year after, her dead body and the fetus were discovered washed ashore in San Francisco Bay, close to where Peterson told the police that he had gone fishing the day that she went missing.

Prosecutors who handled the case said that the suspect killed his wife and dumped her body in the Pacific Ocean and tried to hide the fact by making it seem as if she was missing. The jury handling the case found him guilty and he was sentenced to death the year after, according to BBC.

New Evidence

In 2020, his sentence was overturned by the California Supreme Court after the judge in the original trial was found to have wrongly dismissed a number of jurors. Peterson was resentenced the year after to life in prison without parole.

On Thursday, legal documents from San Mateo County Court in California called for a new review of evidence and suggested a new trial. It appears to be focused on a burglary at the house immediately across the street from the Petersons' home around the time that the defendant's wife went missing.

Peterson's attorneys are seeking dozens of items that they said could not be located after reviewing the trial files from his prior counsel. These include a van fire in the Airport District on Dec. 25, 2022.

Mitchell's letter "includes private identifying information concerning numerous citizens, potential material witnesses, and possible suspects." She said that these were all related to the defendant's claim of innocence, said ABC News.



Related Article: Alec Baldwin Facing Involuntary Manslaughter Charge Again
Spelman College, the oldest historically Black college for women in the nation, received a monumental donation of $100 million from businesswoman and philanthropist Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston, the chairman of Greenleaf Trust.

The generous contribution was unveiled during a special address to the student body by Board Chair Lovette Russell, as per to USA Today.

Spelman College Gets $100M for Scholarships

Russell expressed her personal connection to the transformative power of Spelman, stating, "As a student, I experienced the power of this historic institution and how it transforms the futures of talented young women." She emphasized that the substantial donation is a significant stride towards breaking down financial barriers and facilitating the realization of dreams for countless bright young women aspiring to attend Spelman.

The donation, announced by Stryker and Johnston, will be used for a variety of purposes. A large sum of money, $75 million, will be used to create permanent scholarships, while the rest of the funds will be distributed for different projects, such as the creation of an academic program centered around public policy and democracy. The injection of funds will also help to tackle the ongoing concerns surrounding student housing, which has been a pressing issue for the Spelman community.

Trustee Lovette Russell remarked on the transformative nature of the donation, stating, "It's a transformational gift to any institution, period." Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have often grappled with smaller endowments compared to other institutions, but recent years have witnessed a surge in donations, spurred in part by the racial justice movements following the tragic killing of George Floyd.

Spelman, with approximately 2,400 students, has been relatively well-funded, reporting an endowment of $571 million in 2021. President Helene Gayle highlighted the broader significance of such contributions, noting that it underscores the value of investing in HBCUs that have been historically underinvested in, according to Fortune.

Read Also: Minnesota Man Wrongfully Convicted of Wife's Death Sues Over Fabricated Evidence

Spelman Trustee Ronda Stryker

Ronda Stryker, a Spelman trustee since 1997, has a history of philanthropy towards the institution. In 2018, she and Johnston donated $30 million to Spelman. Their commitment to education extends beyond Spelman, including a $100 million donation in 2011 to establish the Homer Stryker medical school at Western Michigan University.

This momentous donation follows closely on the heels of another significant contribution to HBCUs. The United Negro College Fund recently announced a $100 million donation from the Lilly Endowment Inc., aiming to bolster the long-term financial stability of 37 historically Black colleges and universities, including Spelman.

Notable philanthropic gestures to HBCUs in recent years include MacKenzie Scott's $560 million donation in 2020 to 22 Black colleges, the UNCF, and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Reed Hastings, the founder of Netflix, and his wife, Patty Quillin, distributed $120 million among the United Negro College Fund, Spelman, and Morehouse College. Former New York mayor and entrepreneur Michael Bloomberg pledged $100 million for student aid at the four historically Black medical schools.

Expressing her gratitude, President Dr. Helene Gayle affirmed that the donation represents a critical step in Spelman's mission to eliminate financial barriers, stating, "There's no doubt that Spelman College is better because of her [Ronda Stryker]." The college community, both current students and alumni, took to social media to celebrate this historic and transformative moment, expressing excitement and gratitude for the generous contribution, NBC News reported.

Related Article: Pakistan Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Iran, Killing At Least 7 People
AI is now changing how numerous industries work. These include the labor, media, corporate, and other sectors.

Because of this, many experts warned that artificial intelligence could soon have more severe impacts in the future, such as taking over people's jobs.

One of the organizations that believe AI could negatively affect jobs is the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which recently claimed that 40% of jobs across the world could be affected by the AI revolution.

IMF said that one of the major impacts of artificial intelligence on jobs is worsening inequality.

How the Rise of AI Affects Our Jobs

According to Forbes, the impact of AI on people's daily jobs is more complicated than what others perceive. Based on recent studies and reports, artificial intelligence could automate or augment job roles.

When you say augmentation, this means that jobs could be expanded; leading to more work. In short, more individuals will be given new job opportunities since AI could create new job roles.

On the negative side, artificial intelligence could lead to automation. This means that many jobs might no longer need the assistance of humans since AI can automatically do them.

This negative effect is the one most people are worried about as this could lead to mass layoffs. However, there's still something in between these negative and positive impacts of AI.

On the neutral side, some AIs could just become additional tools to make jobs easier, meaning people's work will remain the same, but will start having assistance from artificial intelligence.

Read Also: Navigating the Future of Software Testing with AI Test Automation Tools

Making Your Job AI-Proof

Before knowing how to make your job AI-proof, you need to first identify what works are at risk of AI automation. Indeed Career Guide provided the jobs that will most likely be affected by artificial intelligence:

Production/Manufacturing : AI-powered robots could replace labor.

: AI-powered robots could replace labor. Customer Service : AI developers are now creating chatbots that can easily answer queries of people. These AI tools could reduce the need for human customer service representatives.

: AI developers are now creating chatbots that can easily answer queries of people. These AI tools could reduce the need for human customer service representatives. Research & Analysis: Most artificial intelligence tools being developed nowadays are designed for research and analysis.

Now that you know the jobs mostly at risk of artificial intelligence automation, here's what you can do to prevent AI tools from replacing you:

Be flexible: Always seek for new skills and never be contended with your current experience since AI could easily overtake you.

Make people skills one of your priorities: Yes, AI can definitely do a lot of things that people can, but in a more efficient and faster way. However, AI still can't replicate people skills, such as persuasion, conflict solving, and the ability to connect with other humans.

Embrace AI: Instead of rejecting artificial intelligence, the best thing you can do is embrace them. If you have spare time, use them to learn AI tools that are in demand in the industry you work in.

Build connections: If you tend to work solo, then it's time to start becoming more of a team player. Try building connections with other people working in your industry, especially those who are also concerned about AI.

Related Article: AI Breakthrough Allows a Robot Learn Tasks by Watching Humans-Making Coffee Is Just One Thing It Can Do!
Philippine President Bongbong Marcos faces criticisms after he used the presidential helicopter just to attend the Coldplay concert at the Philippine Arena.

Photos of the helicopter he used quickly spread on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms. Filipinos shared their mixed reactions regarding what Bongbong Marcos did.

Some of his supporters, especially his "fanatics," defended the Filipino leader; saying that it is acceptable to ensure his safety. Meanwhile, others gave a more reasonable argument, saying that he shouldn't use a helicopter since the fuel and other expenses would be coming from people's taxes.

However, PSG released an explanation to defend Bongbong's use of the presidential helicopter, which many Filipinos do not accept.

PSG Explains Why Bongbong Marcos Uses Presidential Helicopter

Via its official Facebook post, the Presidential Communications Office explained that Bongbong Marcos had to use the presidential helicopter because of unforeseen traffic complications along the route going to the concert's venue.

"Yesterday, the Philippine Arena experienced an unprecedented influx of 40,000 individuals eagerly attending a concert, resulting in unforeseen traffic complications along the route," said PSG.

"Recognizing that this traffic situation posed a potential threat to the security of our President, the PSG took decisive action by opting for the presidential chopper," it added.

PSG further stated that aside from ensuring the safety of the Philippine president, their decision to use a helicopter "exemplified" their commitment to prioritize security during unexpected challenges.

Based on the comment section, it is clear that Filipino netizens are not having PSG's explanation. One of them sarcastically said that it was a great decision to use public funds for Bongbong's personal leisure while citizens are struggling to survive each day.

Others ridiculed the Filipino leader, saying that Bongbong Marcos is quite active when it comes to having a "good time," but is always missing during natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other serious happenings.

Read Also: Philippine President Bongbong Marcos' COVID-19 Infection Questioned by Filipinos-Will He Miss Important Meetings?

Was Bongbong Marcos' Use of Helicopter Acceptable?

Whether you accept it or not, what Bongbong Marcos did as a Filipino leader wasn't acceptable for any reason. Remember, although he's the president, he is still considered a government "employee," who should serve Filipinos while he's in Malacanang Palace.

If you read the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act No. 6713), then you will know why using the presidential helicopter for personal gain is unethical.

This law states that ALL public officials and employees, including the president, should be accountable to people at all times. They also need to discharge their duties with "utmost responsibility, integrity, competence, and loyalty, act with patriotism and justice, lead modest lives, and uphold public interest over personal interest."

This means that public officials are expected not to use people's taxes or public resources for personal gains or non-official purposes, such as going to a concert of Coldplay.

Related Article: [VIRAL] Philippines: PCSO Ridiculed by Filipinos After Posting Lottery Winner's Photo-Here's Why
With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

Li Auto, Shudao New Energy so far co-build 22 supercharging stations along expressways in Sichuan province

As of January 19th, Li Auto and Sichuan Shudao New Energy Technology Development Co., Ltd. has jointly constructed and put into operation 22 Li Auto-branded 5C supercharging stations along expressways in China's Sichuan Province, Li Auto announced via its WeChat account.

Photo credit: Li Auto

Foton Motor scores 37.1% YoY jump in 2023 annual sales volume

Recently, Foton Motor released its annual sales data for the year 2023, revealing a total of 631,000 vehicles sold, marking a significant year-on-year increase of 37.1%. Particularly noteworthy is the outstanding performance in Foton's pickup truck business, which experienced a remarkable year-on-year surge of 47.1%, reaching a historic high in annual sales.

Mars 7 pick-up truck; photo credit: Foton Motor

All-new BMW 5 Series to hit Chinese market at end of Jan. 2023

According to BMW Group's official statement, the all-new BMW 5 Series is about to hit the Chinese market at the end of January 2024. It is equipped with technologies such as the 9th-generation lateral dynamics management system, and the 2nd generation integrated brake system, delivering BMW's iconic pure driving pleasure and human-centric intelligent driving assistance features.

Dongfeng's VOYAH joins hands with Huawei for intelligent mobility advancement

Dongfeng Motor's premium new energy vehicle brand, VOYAH, today announced that it has officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Huawei, marking a significant milestone in their collaborative journey.

HiRain to start mass producing ADAS solution based on Mobileye's EyeQ6 chip

Beijing Jingwei Hirain Technologies Co., Inc. (HiRain), a provider of intelligent driving system solutions in China, on January 22 announced its plans to commence the domestic mass production of an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) based on the Mobileye EyeQ6 Lite chip in the second quarter of 2024.

Dongfeng Motor begins commercial pilot operation of Venucia V-Online's hydrogen-powered cars

On January 19, Dongfeng Motor Corporation ("Dongfeng Motor") announced the official commencement of the commercial pilot operation of Venucia's first hydrogen-powered vehicle, the Venucia V-Online Qing Jing (translating to "Hydrogen Realm"), in the Huadu District of Guangzhou city.

BYD debuts three BEV models in Indonesia's Jakarta

On January 18, BYD held a passenger car brand launch event at the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in Jakarta, introducing three battery electric vehicle (BEV) models  the BYD ATTO 3, the BYD DOLPHIN, and the BYD SEAL (named Yuan PLUS, Dolphin, and Seal in China). The event marked BYD's commitment to the Indonesian market and its vision for a sustainable automotive future.

GAC MOTOR inaugurates new office in Mexico

On January 12, GAC MOTOR's Mexico company ("GAC MOTOR Mexico") inaugurated its new office and conducted a plaque unveiling ceremony. This marks another milestone for GAC MOTOR in the Mexican market, signaling the completion of the initial setup and official establishment of localized operations.

China's intelligent chassis solution supplier BIBO closes A+ funding round

On January 22, 2024, Bebest (Shanghai) Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd. ("BIBO") officially announced the completion of its A+ round of financing, which was jointly led by Meridian Capital and Orinno Capital, with additional investments from Fengfan Ventures ("Fengfan" is Chinese Pinyin), Shanghai Science and Technology Venture Capital (Group) Co., Ltd., Baolong Automotive, and existing shareholder Sequoia Capital China.

Volvo Cars Tech Fund, Coway International TechTrans to co-build ecosystem for startup development

Volvo Cars Tech Fund recently entered into a collaborative agreement with Shanghai Coway International TechTrans Co., Ltd. ("Shanghai Coway") at the Shanghai Technology Innovation Center ("STIC"), according to a WeChat post from Volvo Cars Tech Fund. The partnership aims to foster the development of the startup ecosystem in Shanghai, leveraging the capital from Volvo Cars Tech Fund as a catalyst to bring together the resources of Shanghai Coway's startup ecosystem.

Leapmotor secures around HK$659 million investment through share subscriptions

On January 19, Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co., Ltd. (Leapmotor) announced its H-share subscription agreements with Jinhua Industrial Fund on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

The company conditionally agreed to issue H-shares, with a total value not exceeding 200 million yuan. The subscription price for each H-share is set at HK$43.8 (excluding relevant levies and transaction fees).
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Hezbollah commanders have reportedly been actively supporting Houthi attacks in Yemen.

Reuters reported that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Hezbollah commanders are actively present in Yemen, providing guidance and supervision for Houthi assaults on Red Sea shipping, as four regional and two Iranian sources revealed. Reuters also stated that Iran has armed, trained and funded the Houthis and intensified its weapons supplies following the Gaza conflict initiated by Iranian-backed militants Hamas.

Tehran has reportedly supplied the Houthis with advanced drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, precision-strike ballistic missiles, and medium-range missiles, with IRGC commanders and advisers offering know-how, data, and intelligence support to identify vessels destined for Israel, as shared by Reuters.

Washington's assertion, conveyed by Reuters last month, emphasized Iran's deep involvement in planning operations against shipping in the Red Sea, providing critical intelligence for Houthi attacks. Despite Iran's denial, the White House, in response to a Reuters request for comment, referred to previous statements about Iranian support for the Houthis.

What Is The Official Position?

Reuters affirmed that Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam denied Iranian or Hezbollah involvement, while a Hezbollah spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The Houthis claim to support Hamas by targeting ships linked to Israel, affecting global shipping through the Bab al-Mandab strait, triggering U.S. and British airstrikes on Houthi targets, as described by Reuters.

"The Revolutionary Guards have been helping the Houthis with military training (on advanced weapons)," an Iranian insider informed Reuters, revealing the direct involvement of Iranian commanders who set up a command center in Yemen. The insider went on to disclose that "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." Reuters noted that the Red Sea attacks align with Iran's strategy to expand and mobilize its regional Shi'ite network, showcasing influence and threatening maritime security.

"The Houthis are not acting independently," stated Abdulaziz al-Sager, director of the Gulf Research Center think-tank, as revealed by Reuters. White House national security spokeswoman Adrienne Watson also confirmed Iranian-provided tactical intelligence, chronicled by Reuters, as instrumental for Houthi attacks.

Iran's "Axis of Resistance" in the Middle East, which includes the Houthis, has faced accusations of arming, training, and financing from Washington and Gulf Arab states. Despite Iran's denial of a direct role in the Red Sea attacks, Reuters disclosed that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei praised the Houthis, expressing hope that their strikes would last "until victory."

Reuters recounted that a leader within the coalition of pro-Iranian groups denied current IRGC or Hezbollah commanders' presence in Yemen. However, Reuters revealed a history of Iranian and Hezbollah military experts providing training and building military capabilities for the Houthis.
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
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
Republican presidential nominee Nikki Haley has been looking towards winning over New Hampshire's independent voters in an attempt to close the gap between her and fellow GOP candidate Donald Trump.

Her strategy was to balance her chances against Trump by attracting independents - including those who might change their minds before November- while not alienating conservatives in the process at the same time.

However, New England College associate professor of politics Nathan Shrader said such a prospect was a "very difficult needle to thread." The Associated Press reported that John McCain was the most recent politician to have done such a thing.

Battle for the Independents

New Hampshire has a nearly 40% population of voters who were unaffiliated with a party, and they could be eligible to vote in the GOP primary alongside registered Republicans.

A CNN/University of New Hampshire poll released on Sunday (Jan. 21) showed that while 67% of registered Republicans were likely to vote for Trump in the primary, 58% of undeclared voters supported Haley, giving her the fighting chance she needed to inch closer to the former president.

The poll also suggested that registered Republicans in the state view Haley unfavorably (47%) than favorably (31%), compared to those for (76%) and against (16%) Trump.

On the other hand, Haley was viewed favorably by 42% of people who have registered themselves as undeclared, while 32% did not. These were better odds than Trump, who was viewed unfavorably by 59% of unaffiliated voters, while only 34% said they would consider him over Haley or Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Read Also: Nikki Haley Acknowledges Racism Exists But Won't Say America is Racist

Trouble at Home

Despite the support of governors Chris Sununu (New Hampshire) and Phil Scott (Vermont), Haley's gains out of state might be evened out back home.

Trump framed Haley's popularity with independents as support coming from "radical left Democrats," which could discourage conservatives in closed primaries like in Haley's home state of South Carolina on Feb. 24.

Additionally, Trump's alleged spin on the recent poll was said to be on top of another issue on the Haley campaign, in the form of local South Carolina politicians and federal Senator Tim Scott, who endorsed Trump last week.

Scott was appointed by Haley when she was the governor of South Carolina.

Related Article: GOP Candidate Nikki Haley Banking on Closing Gap on Trump in New Hampshire
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
Authorities recorded nearly 100 deaths related to the frigid winter weather across the United States that has lasted for more than a week.

The death toll has been a compilation of reports made by state officials, police departments, medical examiners, and news media outlets. Officials expect that number to grow as they scramble to assess the death toll from the bitter chill, frozen roads, and high winds.

Winter Weather Deaths

The situation is particularly difficult to assess in parts of the country that are not used to extended periods of deep freeze. On Monday, a man in Tennessee died after falling through a skylight while he was working to clear snow from the roof of a business building.

In Pennsylvania on Tuesday, five women from the same family were killed in a collision with a tractor-trailer. It happened a few moments after they had convened on the side of a snowy highway following a separate accident, as per the New York Times.

In Oregon, a tree branch that was weakened by wind and ice took down a live power line on Wednesday killing two adults and a teenager. In particular, Tennessee suffered a particularly high number of fatalities.

At least 27 people in the state appear to have lost their lives from weather-related causes, including hypothermia, falls, and traffic accidents. In the state of Oregon, at least 11 people were reported to have died of weather-related causes, including the three people who were killed by the power line.

Last week, the two states declared a state of emergency, similar to Kentucky, where at least five people lost their lives during the cold snap. In a statement, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said on Friday urged people to take time to check on their loved ones and other acquaintances to make sure that they have what they need to stay safe and warm.

In many areas of the United States, tens of thousands of people are still without power due to the effects of the winter storm. Authorities are also expecting the weather to continue until the middle of the week, according to BBC.

Read Also: Hawaii: Concerns About Wildfires, Housing Front and Center at Recent Legislative Session

Dangerous Conditions

While the death toll across the country has been recorded as the highest in Tennessee and Oregon, fatalities have also been reported in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, Kentucky, Wisconsin, New York, New Jersey, and elsewhere.

The weather in Mississippi prompted officials to warn drivers to "drive only if necessary" and to be "aware of black ice" on the state's roads. Furthermore, colleges and universities in the state delayed students' return from winter break due to the dangerous conditions,

Tens of millions of people were battered with bitterly cold, below-average temperatures on Saturday and people in the eastern half of the country will likely experience some of the coldest weather yet this season.

Experts recommend layering up if people need to go outside using caution while operating devices such as space heaters and keeping an eye out for symptoms of serious conditions. In a statement, a meteorologist for The Weather Channel, Molly McCollum said that arctic air will mix with moisture from the Gulf to create an icy mess from Oklahoma to Illinois, said CBS News.

Related Article: March for Life Pushes Through in DC Despite Cold Spell
Many demonstrators flooded the streets throughout Germany to express their opposition to the far-right. The catalyst for this widespread protest was a disclosed report alleging the involvement of multiple members from the Alternative for Germany Party (AfD) in a meeting that discussed mass deportations of migrants.

In Munich alone, the police stated that roughly 100,000 individuals participated in the Sunday protest. This represents just one of many events across the country last weekend, collectively drawing in hundreds of thousands of participants who braved extremely cold temperatures to rally against the alleged far-right's plans.

Deportation Plans Draw Parallels to Nazi Era

The demonstrations were not confined to Munich alone. Throughout the week, numerous protests unfolded on various German streets. On Sunday, concurrent with the Munich rally, police reported over 60,000 people protesting against the AfD in Berlin.

According to organizers, approximately 70,000 people simultaneously participated in Cologne on the same day. In Hamburg on Friday, around 50,000 people joined the protest.

Saturday's demonstrations in other German cities, such as Stuttgart, Dortmund, Hannover, and Nuremberg, attracted thousands of participants. Protests were staged even in traditionally strong AfD-voting cities like Leipzig and Dresden.

Several people have pointed out that the suggested mass deportation plan shares resemblances with the Nazi era, a dark historical period that was characterized by the involuntary relocation of millions to concentration camps, forced labor facilities, and extermination camps.

Because of this, banners at protests across the country expressed messages such as "Nazis, no thank you," "It feels like 1933, AfD ban now!" and "Investigate banning AfD," highlighting the opposition to the party's anti-immigrant stance, drawing parallels to the Nazi era in Germany during the 1930s and 40s, according to Al Jazeera.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has approved the protests, deeming them "good and right." In a video message released Friday night, Scholz conveyed his effort to understand how the more than 20 million citizens with a history of migration might feel about the deportation plan.

Read Also: German Defense Minister Warns of Putin's Attack on NATO in Near Future

Germany Denies Allegations of Mass Deportations

Last week, Correctiv, a media outlet, released a report detailing an alleged far-right meeting near Berlin in November. The gathering purportedly involved discussions on a proposal to deport millions of immigrants and refugees, including individuals with German citizenship.

The report suggests that the assembly included individuals associated with the extremist Identitarian Movement and the AfD. Notably, Martin Sellner, a prominent member of the Identitarian Movement and an Austrian citizen, reportedly presented his vision of "remigration," emphasizing the concept of deportations.

The revelation has sparked widespread outrage among many Germans who are deeply concerned about reports indicating that senior members of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) engaged in discussions regarding a "master plan" for mass deportation.

In response, the AfD has denied adopting the "remigration" project advocated by Sellner and refutes any association with such proposals, asserting that they do not align with its official policy. However, they acknowledged the presence of their members at the meeting.

Related Article: Germany's Far-Right Surge Threatens Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Administration
A representative for the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, has confirmed that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer six months after beating breast cancer.

The melanoma was discovered when several moles were removed during Ferguson's reconstructive surgery following a mastectomy.

Sarah Ferguson Diagnosed With Skin Cancer

The Duchess has been recovering at the MAYRLIFE center, a medical wellness resort in Altaussee, Austria while undergoing treatment for her melanoma in London.

The representative said she is undergoing further investigations to ensure the illness has been caught early. The additional diagnosis after the treatment for breast cancer has been distressing for the Duchess, but she remains in good spirits.

According to People, a friend of Ferguson shared that the second cancer diagnosis in a matter of months has been a shock and blow. However, she said that Ferguson has been resilient, and her time in Austria has helped her gather strength as her family continued supporting her.

Ferguson's eldest daughter, Princess Beatrice, has a connection to her mother's recent cancer diagnosis, as she is a patron of the British Skin Foundation and has previously worked with skin cancer patients.

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Ferguson Thankful for Beating Breast Cancer

Ferguson extended her gratitude to the entire medical team who supported her, especially the dermatologist whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected. She also thanked the people who encouraged her to have her moles checked.

The representative shared that Ferguson also believed her experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, color, and texture and the emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma.

"The Duchess is receiving the best medical care, and her doctors have told her that the prognosis is good. She is now recuperating with her family. The Duchess wants to express her immense gratitude to all the medical staff who have supported her in recent days," the representative continued.

Furthermore, Ferguson announced that she beat her breast cancer in a New Year's Eve message posted on social media.

Last November, Ferguson told People that her two wonderful daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, supported her throughout her breast cancer journey. She called them her "wholehearted cheerleaders, my devoted champions, and my soulmates."

She added that they have been as supportive as they can be, as they always are.

On Wednesday, Kensington Palace announced that Kate Middleton was recovering from a scheduled stomach surgery and would spend 10 to 14 days in the hospital, followed by a lengthy recovery period back at home.

Buckingham Palace also shared that King Charles III would be undergoing treatment for an enlarged prostate that same day. The statement claimed that the King's public engagements would be postponed for a short recovery period.

Related Article: Hair Relaxers Linked to Cancer in Thousands of Black Women


An Illinois man was arrested by law enforcement personnel after he fatally shot his wife and three daughters inside a suburban home in Tinley Park on Sunday.

In a statement, Village Manager Pat Carr said that the victims of the horrific incident were shot to death during a domestic incident at a home in the 7400 block of 173rd Street. Police arrived at the scene of the crime shortly before 11;30 a.m.

Illinois Man Fatally Shoots Wife, 3 Daughters

The victims' loved ones gathered at the scene on Sunday night with heavy hearts to mourn their loss. When law enforcement personnel arrived at the scene in the morning, they found four women dead inside the home, all with apparent gunshot wounds. They also discovered an uninjured man inside the house.

Police said that they immediately arrested the individual and investigators have said that the suspected shooter was later found to be the husband and father of the victims who made the 911 call.

The Cook County Medical Examiner also identified the victims as 59-year-old Majeda Kassem, 25-year-old Halema Kassem, 25-year-old Zahia Kassem, and 24-year-old Hanan Kassem. After the initial arrest, law enforcement personnel stayed on the scene to investigate the crime and recovered a weapon, as per ABC7 Chicago.

Carr noted that the fatal shootings were isolated to the inside of the home in Tinley Park and added that police were able to secure the area. He also said that currently, law enforcement officials were only looking at one suspect, the husband and father of the victims.

During a press conference on Sunday afternoon, Tinley Park Police Chief Tom Tilton said that there was no longer a threat to the public. He added that the killings were a "tragedy," not only for the family but also for the surrounding neighbors of the area.

The news of the deaths was disturbing for the people who lived nearby and even knew the family personally. One resident, Charlotte Vaitkus, said that her daughter knows the victims, adding that they went to school with the oldest son and were employed with the twin sisters.

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Tragic Incident in Tinley Park

Her daughter always talked about how intelligent they were and that they had very high goals in life. Charges against the suspect, who remains in custody, are still pending and police have not revealed his name.

Vaitkus said that they never knew the family of the victims to have ever had any problems with each other. Tilton added that the entire situation appeared to be a domestic situation but did not provide further details about the crime, citing the ongoing investigation, according to NBC Chicago.

The incident comes after an early morning shooting on the Eisenhower Expressway on Chicago's Near West Side. The crime resulted in the death of a 25-year-old man and prompted officials to shut down the Paulina Street ramp for several hours on Thursday last week.

Bullets were said to have struck at least one car in the westbound lanes just before 3:30 a.m., and officials said that more than two dozen shell casings were left behind. It marked the seventh shooting on an expressway so far this year, said CBS News.

Related Article: Colombia: 3 Jailed in Kidnapping, Killing of Hmong American Activist Tou Ger Xiong
Canada's anti-auto theft national summit has been confirmed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government. This meeting is expected to help reduce the rising car thefts in the North American country.

Based on industry estimates, car thefts in numerous Canadian cities and provinces increased drastically; by around 20% to 50% in 2022. Law enforcement officials claimed that transnational organized crime groups were even involved in these carjackings.

Now, the Canadian government wants to tackle the rising car thefts. If you're one of the car owners in Canada concerned about auto thieves, here's what you can expect from the anti-auto theft national summit.

Canada's Anti-Auto Theft National Summit Confirmed

The Canadian government confirmed, via its official news release, that the National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft is scheduled on Feb. 8 in Ottawa.

These anti-auto theft national meeting aims to bring together leaders from key sectors and jurisdictions so that they can ensure a coordinated response against car thefts.

Canada's upcoming anti-auto theft national summit aims to determine short-, medium-, and long-term measures against carjackings. Aside from this, the conference would also strengthen joint efforts that are already underway.

"Collaboration is key to identifying solutions," said the Honorable Dominic LeBlanc, the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs.

"By convening partners from across local, provincial, and national jurisdictions, this summit will enable us to further coordinate our collective efforts to combat auto theft," he added.

Read Also: New York City Gives Free Apple AirTags to Fight Rampant Car Thefts

Canada's Car Theft Statistics

According to Time Magazine, Canada's largest city, Toronto, saw over 9,600 car thefts in 2022 alone. This was confirmed by the Canadian Finance and Leasing Association.

CFLA officials said that Toronto's stolen vehicles in 2022 increased by 300% compared to the annual auto theft records in 2015.

Aside from Toronto, other cities and provinces in Canada also experienced spikes in carjackings in 2022, such as the following:

Ontario: 48.3% increase

Atlantic Canada: 34.5% increase

Quebec: 50% increase

As of writing, the Canadian government hasn't provided the exact anti-auto theft measures they could implement to reduce stolen vehicles.

If you're a car owner, it would still be best to take this matter into your own hands. Luckily, the Halton Police Department provided some tips that can help you prevent thieves from stealing your vehicle:

Use a steering wheel locking device.

Start investing in effective GPS trackers.

Place your vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag or pouch.

Make sure that all your windows and doors are locked properly, even if the car is in the garage.

Invest in a quality video surveillance system.

Related Article: Police Confirms Denver Mayor as Auto Theft Victim Amid Rising Vehicle Robbery in Colorado
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On January 22, JETOUR, the SUV brand under Chery Holding, announced the production of its one-millionth vehicle.



Photo credit: JETOUR

Launched in 2018 as a new product series responding to market trends and consumer demands, JETOUR transitioned into an independent brand in July 2021. Since the debut of its first product in 2018, JETOUR achieved cumulative sales of over 800,000 vehicles in just 60 months.

Currently offering models such as the Traveler, X90 series, X70 series, and the newly crafted new energy product, the Shanhai L9, JETOUR continues to expand its portfolio with upcoming releases like the urban joyous SUV series, rugged off-road SUV series, and pickup series.

The Shanhai L9, which hit the market in November 2023, boasts a body length of 4,862mm and an extended wheelbase of 2,850mm. Priced between 166,900 yuan and 188,900 yuan, the vehicle features a 1.5T engine and a plug-in hybrid electric system with a maximum output power of 115kW and a total battery-powered range of 55km or 108km.

In 2023, JETOUR achieved a remarkable sales performance with 315,000 vehicles sold, marking a 75% year-on-year soar. Annual exports surged from 45,000 units in 2022 to 110,000 units in 2023, reflecting a significant 148% spike.

Looking ahead to 2024, JETOUR set a target to realize annual sales of 500,000 vehicles across its family and off-road travel SUV series.
Ethnic killings in one city in Sudan, where victims numbered between roughly 10,000 and 15,000, have prompted calls for action by the United Nations against the country's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Independent UN sanctions monitors attributed the toll in El Geneina to intelligence sources and contrasted it with the UN estimate that roughly 12,000 people have been killed across Sudan since Apr. 15, 2023. It was when the war between the Sudanese army and the RSF erupted.

Sudan's Ethnic Killings

In their report, the monitors also described the "credible" accusations that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had provided military support to the RSF "several times per week." This was made via Amdjarass in northern Chad. A top Sudanese general also accused the UAE in November of backing the RSF war effort.

The UAE sent a letter to the monitors, saying that 122 flights had delivered humanitarian aid to Amdjarass to help Sudanese people who were fleeing the conflict. One UAE official on Saturday said that they extended an invitation to the UN monitors to visit a field hospital in Amdjarass to "learn firsthand about the humanitarian efforts undertaken by the UAE to help alleviate the suffering caused by the current conflict," as per Reuters.

The UN said that roughly 500,000 people have already fled Sudan and traveled into eastern Chad, which is several hundred kilometers south of Amdjarass. The monitors wrote that from April to June last year, El Geneina allegedly experienced "intense violence."

They also accused the RSF and its allies of targeting the ethnic African Masalit tribe in attacks that may "amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity." Previously, the paramilitary denied the accusations and said that any of its soldiers who were found to be involved would face justice.

In their annual report to the 15-member Security Council, the sanctions monitors said that the ethnic attacks were planned, coordinated, and executed by RSF and their allied Arab militias.

Read Also: Israel Agrees To Transfer Frozen Palestinian Funds for Gaza to Norway

UN Action Against Paramilitary Group

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry also condemned on Saturday the continued supply of advanced weapons to the RSF by the UAE and other unnamed countries. The ministry said that this particular support enables the paramilitary to expand its military operations, commit atrocities against civilians, and prolong the Sudanese war, according to the Sudan Tribune.

Furthermore, officials also criticized the international community's slow response to the situation in the embattled region. They argued that the reluctance to take decisive action against the RSF contributed to the continuation of the war and the suffering of millions of Sudanese people.

In December last year, the ethnic killings affected 24-year-old Osman Arbab and his younger brother as they were on a bus outside Atbara, Sudan. Then, military intelligence suddenly stopped the vehicle and asked which of the passengers were from Darfur or Kordofan.

The two individuals were then told by the military intelligence officers that they were accused of spying for the RSF. Arbab and his brother were then taken to a facility in Atbara in northeastern Sudan. They were subjected to beating for six days during interrogation in an attempt to force confessions out of them, said Aljazeera.

Related Article: Two Navy SEALs Presumed Dead Following Raid on Ship in Somalia
On Sunday, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said it will not allow any threats to Somalia's security amid tension with Ethiopia over a port deal between Addis Ababa and Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland.

Earlier this month, Ethiopia signed a maritime access agreement with Somaliland without the approval of Somalia's central government.

Egypt Supports Somalia's Security

Sisi said at a news conference with visiting Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, "Egypt will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or affect its security." He continued not to threaten Egypt and its brothers, especially if they asked it to intervene.

On January 1, Ethiopia stated in a memorandum that it would consider recognizing Somaliland's independence in return for the port access. It would lease 20 kilometers of coastline around the port of Berbera on the Gulf of Aden for military and commercial use for 50 years.

According to Aljazeera, Ethiopia's primary port for marine exports is in the neighboring country of Djibouti. Mohamud rejected the deal as a violation of international law and said they would not stand idly by and watch their sovereignty being compromised.

He traveled to Egypt over the weekend to rally support for his government. He also met with Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit and Al-Azhar Mosque's Grand Imam, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb.

"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, noting cooperation on development was a more effective tactic.

Ethiopia rejected Egypt's criticism of the deal on Sunday, claiming it was merely a commercial arrangement to secure access to the sea and not an attempt to conquer land.

Redwan Hussien, national security adviser to the prime minister of Ethiopia, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that it was not annexation or assumption of sovereignty over the territory of any state.

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Egypt, Ethiopia's Relationship Over The Years

Relations between Ethiopia and Egypt have been hostile for years due to a major dam Ethiopia has built on the Blue Nile. Along with Sudan, the countries have been attempting to reach a negotiated deal on the filling and operating of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam for over a decade.

Somaliland, a region strategically located by the Gulf of Aden, broke away from Somalia in 1991 as the country descended into a civil conflict. The region has maintained its government despite a lack of recognition from other countries.

Ethiopia lost its ports on the Red Sea early in the 1990s following the Eritrean War of Independence, which lasted from 1961 to 1991. In 1991, Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia, leading to two distinct countries. The separation resulted in Ethiopia losing direct access to the Red Sea and key ports.

Related Article: Ethiopia Signs Historic Port Agreement With Somaliland for Sea Access




American department store chain Macy's, Inc. rejected on Sunday a $5.8 billion privatization proposal from Arkhouse Management and Brigade Capital Management, expressing concerns about deal financing and valuation.

The rejection comes after the Macy's Board of Directors found the non-binding proposal lacking in compelling value. Ongoing concerns were expressed about the feasibility and financing plan presented by Arkhouse, a real estate-focused investing firm, and Brigade, a global asset manager.

Arkhouse Management Proposes $21/Share for Macy's Acquisition

Earlier, Arkhouse has formally confirmed an proposal to acquire the outstanding shares of Macy's, Inc. at $21 per share. The offer specifically targets the shares that Arkhouse does not currently own, marking a noteworthy step in the potential acquisition of Macy's.

This offer represents a 32.4% premium to the unaffected stock price and a 56.8% premium to the Company's 30-day volume-weighted adjusted stock price as of November 30, 2023.

Emphasizing their belief in the long-term success of Macy's as a private entity, Arkhouse Management urges the company to respond promptly and engage in substantive discussions. The investor group expresses willingness to increase the proposal with access to due diligence and has offered to sign a mutual non-disclosure agreement.

"We have conviction in the long-term success of Macy's but believe that its potential will only be realized as a private company," Arkhouse Managing Partners Gavriel Kahane and Jonathon Blackwell said in a press release. "We believe Macy's investors support a privatization given the stock's largest single-day gain in more than two years following media reports of our interest in acquiring the Company."

Read Also: Macy's Stock Skyrockets as $5.8 Billion Acquisition Report Surfaces

Macy's Rejects Arkhouse and Brigade's Proposal in Formal Letter

Macy's has officially acknowledged the receipt of an "unsolicited", "non-binding proposal" from Arkhouse and Brigade. However, the company's Board of Directors has deemed the non-binding proposal insufficient to warrant entering into a non-disclosure agreement or sharing due diligence information with Arkhouse and Brigade.

In a letter dated January 21, 2024, addressed to Kahane, Blackwell, and Matthew Perkal, a partner at Brigade, Macy's Chairman and CEO Jeff Gennette communicated the Board's decision to reject the non-binding acquisition proposal submitted on December 1, 2023.

The rejection is based on serious reservations about Arkhouse and Brigade's ability to finance the proposed deal. The Board, consulting with legal, financial, and real estate advisors, highlighted concerns about the uncommitted nature of the financing plan, non-standard preconditions, and the proposed cash equity contribution being below market levels.

Additionally, the Board expressed skepticism about the viability of the financing structure, citing excessive leverage and reliance on payment-in-kind securities.

Despite the lack of compelling value and unaddressed concerns since a previous communication on December 14, 2023, Macy's Board decided against entering a non-disclosure agreement or providing due diligence information.

The rejection aims to avoid distracting the management team from executing the business strategy and value creation for shareholders. According to the letter, Macy's remains open to opportunities that align with the best interests of the company and its shareholders.

Last week, Macy's revealed plans to lay off approximately 2,350 employees and shut down five stores as part of its response to challenges in the retail sector.

The move, impacting 3.5% or 2,350 positions of its total workforce and 13% of corporate staff, is driven by a strategic shift towards increased automation in the supply chain and streamlining decision-making by reducing management layers, as indicated in a leaked internal memo, according to Daily Mail.

This is amidst Macy's workers advocating for boycotts and strikes, with over 20,000 customers committing to shop elsewhere during the strike.

The ongoing protest is set to expand until a fair contract is achieved. As reported by the Bellingham Herald, worker unions from Macy's in Lynnwood, Alderwood, Bellevue, and Vancouver across Washington state are actively planning strikes and calling for a boycott.

Related Article: Macy's Announces Store Closures, Mass Layoff as It Adapts To Small-Format Store Trend in Retail Industry
Israel made huge headlines after rejecting the war-ending resolution. Because of this, Hamas leaders said that there's no chance of hostages returning because of Netanyahu's decision.

In late November 2023, the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar brokered a ceasefire deal between Israel and the Palestinian terrorist group. This truce included hostage releases.

Over 100 captives were released by Hamas leaders in return for 240 Palestinian prisoners, who were held in Israeli prisons. However, around 130 hostages still remain in the hands of the Palestinian militant group.

Hamas Says No Chance of Hostages Returning

According to The Guardian's latest report, the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas terrorists seems to have receded after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected their conditions.

One of the Hamas leaders, Sami Abu Zuhri, said that what Netanyahu did meant that "there is no chance for the return of the [Israeli] captives." As of writing, the Palestinian militant organization is still holding around 130 hostages.

On Sunday, Jan. 21, hostages' families protested outside the private residence of the Israeli PM in Jerusalem. These protesters are expected to remain until the Israeli leader agrees to a deal to return the captives, as confirmed by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

The Israeli advocacy group also argued that Benjamin Netanyahu recently promised that they "will not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped" by Hamas terrorists during the deadly attack in October 2023.

"If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public," said the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

Read Also: UN Condemns Israel for 'Heartbreaking' Deaths in Gaza as Death Toll Surpasses 25,000

Why Netanyahu Rejects Two-State War Resolution

Reuters reported that the Israeli prime minister didn't agree with the two-state war resolution proposal because of the conditions presented by Hamas terrorists.

Among the conditions demanded by the Palestinian militant group is for Israel to completely withdraw its IDF forces from Gaza. Hamas leaders also wanted Israel to allow them to remain in power.

"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," said Netanyahu.

"I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," he added.

Related Article: Netanyahu Rejects Proposal To End War With Hamas Despite US Effort for Two-State Solution
A Russian private jet crashed in Afghanistan as it was traveling to Moscow and it was reported that four of the passengers survived while the condition of two others remained unclear.

The announcement, made by Russia's aviation watchdog on Sunday, cited reports from the Russian embassy in Afghanistan. The survival of the four passengers was reported by two Taliban provincial officials, adding that they were with Taliban administration officials.

Russian Jet Crash

The top spokesman of the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid said that the pilot was included among the four survivors. In a statement, he said that the investigative team of the Islamic Emirate was continuing its efforts to search for and provide assistance to the remaining individuals involved in the crash.

The Russian-registered charter plane was carrying six people before it disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan the day prior to the report. Russian aviation authority Rosaviatsia reported the latest news on Sunday after Afghan police said that they received reports of a crash, as per CNN.

The plane that crashed was a charter ambulance flight that was traveling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow. It was flying via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet that was manufactured in 1978.

Roughly 25 minutes before the plane disappeared from radar screens, the pilot warned that the aircraft's fuel was running low and that he would try to land at an airport in Tajikistan. The pilot then reported that one engine had stopped and later noted that the second one had also stopped.

India's civil aviation authority said that the Russian private jet was not a scheduled commercial flight or an Indian chartered aircraft. The RIA news agency said that the plane was carrying one bedridden patient in serious condition who was transported from one of the hospitals in Pattaya to Russia.

The area where the Russian jet crashed was a mountainous area in Badakhshan province, located roughly 250 kilometers northeast of Afghanistan's capital, Kabul. It is a rural, mountainous area that is home to only several thousand people, according to Yahoo News.

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Survivors From the Accident

Russia's Investigative Committee later said that it had opened a criminal case on charges related to potential violations of air safety rules or negligence. Standard procedures require investigations to be opened over crashes.

In a statement, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova also said that the Russian embassy in Afghanistan was working with local officials regarding the incident. A spokesman for the Taliban's Information and Culture Ministry said that while engine problems were believed to be the cause of the crash, he did not elaborate on the matter.

The Taliban-run Afghan aviation ministry noted that the planned route of the plane that crashed did not include passing through the nation's airspace. It cited that "technical issues" could have caused the craft to divert from its original plans, said Reuters.

The incident comes as international carriers have largely avoided Afghanistan since the Taliban's 2021 takeover of the nation's government. Those that do fly over the region only do so for a few minutes and mainly over the sparsely populated Wakhan Corridor in Badakhshan.



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An Iranian soldier unleashed gunfire upon his fellow comrades in the southeastern city of Kerman, resulting in the tragic demise of five soldiers, as reported by Iranian state TV.

This unsettling event unfolded in the wake of a recent bombing attack in Kerman, where 94 lives were lost earlier this month.

Kerman Barracks Shooting Raises Military Concerns

According to state TV, the shooting transpired within a barracks dormitory, where resting soldiers became the unsuspecting victims of the assailant's aggression. The motive behind this disturbing act remains shrouded in mystery, and the identity of the suspect, who is currently at large, has not been disclosed. As the investigation unfolds, authorities have refrained from releasing any further details.

The report specifies that the distressing attack occurred in Kerman, situated approximately 515 miles southeast of the Iranian capital, Tehran. Kerman had recently witnessed two devastating explosions, claiming 94 lives and leaving hundreds injured during a ceremony commemorating the death of an Iranian general killed in a 2020 US drone strike in Iraq. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for these earlier attacks, adding a layer of complexity to the region's security concerns.

This incident, reminiscent of similar occurrences, marks a disconcerting trend within Iran's military landscape. Previous reports have documented sporadic shootings at military bases, shedding light on the challenges faced by the nation's armed forces. Notably, in 2022, another soldier perpetrated an attack, claiming the lives of a fellow soldier and three policemen at a roadside police station in the country's southern region, according to Voice of America.

Read Also: At Least 25 People Killed in Bombardment of Market in Russia-Held Ukraine City

Iran's Mandatory Military Service

The mandatory military service in Iran, spanning up to 24 months for men aged 19 and above, adds an additional layer of complexity to the situation. While the intention behind conscription is to bolster national security, it inadvertently places a diverse array of individuals under the same banner, each grappling with their own unique challenges and circumstances.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this recent tragedy, questions regarding the mental health and well-being of military personnel come to the forefront. The unidentified assailant's motivations, mental state, and any potential warning signs are subjects that demand thorough examination.

The recurring nature of such incidents prompts a critical evaluation of the existing support systems and preventive measures within the military infrastructure. The tragic loss of lives in Kerman serves as a somber reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain both the security of the nation and the well-being of those who dutifully serve.

In the coming days, as investigations progress, authorities will be pressed to provide the public with comprehensive insights into the circumstances surrounding this distressing incident. As the nation mourns the loss of five brave soldiers, the need for a comprehensive review of military protocols, mental health support, and the importance of preventive measures becomes clearer, ensuring the safety and well-being of those who serve on the front lines of national defense, Star and Stripes reported.

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Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca is currently facing a serious court case, dealing with compensation claims from 35 individuals who allege complications linked with its COVID-19-19 vaccine.

The vaccine, developed in collaboration with the University of Oxford, is now under scrutiny in the UK High Court, with claimants asserting that the vaccine is inherently "defective."

AstraZeneca's Legal Battle Over Rare Vaccine Side Effects

The focus of the controversy lies in the emergence of a rare side effect known as Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT), a condition causing blood clots. Tragically, at least 81 deaths have been linked to complications associated with this rare side effect, while numerous others have reported severe illnesses.

This legal challenge, potentially one of the most significant of its kind, may see AstraZeneca facing compensation payouts of up to 80 million ($101 million) if the court rules against the pharmaceutical company. According to reports from The Telegraph, additional claims are expected to be filed, further escalating the financial stakes for AstraZeneca.

The government, in its efforts to expedite the vaccine rollout during the pandemic, indemnified AstraZeneca and other vaccine manufacturers. Under the Vaccine Damage Payment scheme, individuals suffering adverse reactions, including those related to COVID-19 vaccines, are entitled to a one-off sum of $152,512 from the government. However, this compensation amount has come under scrutiny as potentially inadequate, particularly in cases involving severe outcomes.

Tory MP Sir Jeremy Wright emphasized the importance of addressing these cases and ensuring public confidence in the event of rare vaccine complications. The government was strongly encouraged to intervene and resolve these cases, guaranteeing assistance for those impacted.

The claimants are pursuing legal action under the Consumer Protection Act, contending that the vaccine's safety was misrepresented to recipients. AstraZeneca is staunchly defending itself against the claims, labeling them as 'confused' and 'wrong in law.' The pharmaceutical giant emphasizes the millions of lives its vaccine is believed to have saved during its initial year of deployment, as per Daily Mail.

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AstraZeneca Excluded From UK Booster For Safety

Notably, the AstraZeneca vaccine is no longer part of the UK's booster program, with experts recommending the use of mRNA vaccines, such as Pfizer or Moderna, instead. Complications linked to the AstraZeneca jab have been cited on death certificates, raising concerns about the vaccine's safety.

Among the tragic cases, the death of Dr. Stephen Wright, who succumbed to a blood clot in the brain ten days after receiving his first AstraZeneca dose, and the passing of rock musician Lord Zion, whose preliminary death certificate attributed the cause to vaccine-induced complications, underscore the gravity of the situation.

As the legal battle unfolds, the government's indemnification, initial reports of vaccine complications, and the AstraZeneca vaccine's exclusion from the booster program continue to fuel the debate surrounding the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. AstraZeneca, when contacted for comment, is yet to respond to these latest developments.

The cases, along with the increasing appeals, bring attention to the unusual but serious side effects linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine. This raises concerns about the intricate trade-off between the advantages of vaccination and the potential risks involved. The resolution of this legal dispute could have a profound effect on the future of litigation surrounding COVID-19 vaccines.

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A 17-year-old Tawfiq Ajaq, originally from Gretna, Louisiana, met a tragic end in the occupied West Bank last Friday, succumbing to wounds inflicted by Israeli gunfire.

The young teenager had moved to the war-torn region less than a year ago, accompanied by his parents and four siblings, with the intention of completing high school and reconnecting with their Palestinian roots, as per Daily Mail.

Louisiana Teen's West Bank Death Sparks Global Outcry

The Ajaq family arrived in the Middle East last summer, just before the outbreak of the conflict that has left a devastating impact on the lives of many Palestinians. Tawfiq's father, Hafez Ajaq, expressed his grief and frustration, criticizing the use of US tax dollars to fund weapons that, in his view, led to the tragic loss of their son.

"He is an American child who was chased and shot at by an Israeli settler, then Israeli forces pulled up and continued shooting," explained Joe Abdel Qaki, a relative of Tawfiq. The incident reportedly occurred while Tawfiq and a friend were having a barbecue in a village field. He was shot in the head and chest, and despite efforts to transport him to the hospital, he tragically passed away in the ambulance.

The mourning extended across borders, with crowds of Palestinians filling the streets of the village of al-Mazraa Asharqiya to pay their respects. A vigil held at the Masjid Omar mosque in Harvey, New Orleans, drew a standing-room-only crowd, reflecting the impact of Tawfiq's untimely death on both local and global communities.

Miranda Cleland, an advocacy officer with Defense for Children Palestine, raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding whether a settler or soldier was responsible for the fatal shots. The United States Office of Palestinian Affairs called for an urgent investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability, according to Aljazeera.

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UN Reports Fatal Shooting of Palestinian Teen

The United Nations humanitarian agency OCHA reported the incident in its daily update, stating that a "17-year-old Palestinian child was shot and killed" near Tawfiq's residence. The circumstances surrounding the shooting involve conflicting reports, with Israeli forces and settlers allegedly responding to Palestinians throwing stones at vehicles on Road 60 near the village.

The ongoing violence in the occupied West Bank has resulted in numerous casualties, with OCHA's latest figures revealing that of the 358 Palestinians killed since October 7, the majority (348) were killed by Israeli forces. The situation remains complex, with ongoing tensions and a lack of clarity surrounding specific incidents.

Israeli police acknowledged receiving a report about a "firearm discharge" on Friday, targeting individuals engaged in alleged rock-throwing activities along Highway 60. The investigation is underway, but outcomes and accountability in such cases involving Israeli forces are often elusive.

As the world mourns the loss of yet another young life in the protracted conflict, Tawfiq Ajaq's father, Hafez, pleaded with Americans to comprehend the harsh reality faced by families in the West Bank. The grieving father emphasized the urgent need for awareness, questioning how many more parents must bid farewell to their children due to the ongoing violence, CNN News reported.

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Rex A. Heuermann, the 59-year-old accused of being the Gilgo Beach serial killer, is currently residing in solitary confinement at the high-security Riverhead Jail in New York, as officials acknowledge the significant threat he poses to other inmates.

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon Jr. confirmed that credible information exists regarding Heuermann being a potential target for violence if not securely held.

Isolated in High-Profile Murder Case

Having spent the majority of his days in a small, windowless cell since his arrest in July 2023, Heuermann awaits trial on charges related to the alleged murders of four women. Officials emphasize the necessity of his isolation, considering his involvement in a high-profile case and the potential danger posed by other inmates seeking to enhance their reputations.

Sheriff Toulon shed light on Heuermann's daily routine inside the special housing unit, where he has minimal interaction with fellow inmates. He wakes up around 6 a.m., receives breakfast in his cell, and is permitted to shower. For protection, Heuermann is restricted from engaging with other inmates in communal areas.

Heuermann's attorney, Michael J. Brown, did not respond to requests for comment. Brown has consistently asserted Heuermann's innocence, emphasizing his client's lack of previous criminal history and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

Facing charges of first- and second-degree murder for the deaths of Megan Waterman, Melissa Barthelemy, Amber Lynn Costello, and Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Heuermann maintains his plea of not guilty. These women, whose remains were discovered near Gilgo Beach 13 years ago, were reportedly involved in sex work.

Heuermann's estranged wife, Asa Ellerup, who filed for divorce shortly after his arrest, has visited him in jail multiple times. Inmates, including Heuermann, are allowed one-hour visits several times per week, adhering to strict guidelines. Ellerup's attorney, Robert Macedonio, confirmed her multiple visits, highlighting her quest for information amid the emotional difficulty of accepting the allegations against her husband, according to Newsday.

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Rex Heuermann's Regulated Routine in Special Unit

Inside the special unit, Heuermann shares the space with only one other inmate, and communication between them is nonexistent. His day is closely monitored by correction officers to ensure compliance with regulations. Heuermann's grooming standards are maintained, and he has access to facilities such as the in-house barber shop.

While Heuermann has not displayed any behavioral issues, correction officers conduct round-the-clock surveillance. His daily activities include reviewing legal documents for two to three hours, either with a provided laptop in his housing unit or at the jail's library under strict conditions.

Despite his solitary existence, Heuermann's case continues to generate interest. The Suffolk County Sheriff's anti-trafficking initiative, involving interviews with 168 inmates, explores potential links to sex work in Suffolk and Nassau counties. Investigations may extend to New York City, reflecting the broader scope of the initiative.

Meanwhile, recent revelations suggest disturbing search terms found on a seized burner phone and email account registered under the alias "Thomas Hawk." These terms, including explicit and violent queries, raise concerns about Heuermann's online activities. However, defense attorney Brown downplays the significance, emphasizing the potential misconceptions in interpreting an individual's search history.

New DNA testing presented by prosecutors as major evidence reveals an overwhelming match, reinforcing the case against Heuermann. Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney hails the "cutting-edge" advances in testing, providing a robust foundation for the prosecution.

As Heuermann awaits his next court date on February 6, the investigation into the Gilgo Beach murders remains active, with a grand jury exploring other deaths in the same vicinity. The accused, born and raised in Massapequa Park, New York, faces a complex legal battle that continues to capture public attention, Fox News reported.

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Exxon Mobil, an American multinational oil giant, filed a lawsuit in a court in Texas on Sunday, January 21, trying to block a climate proposal by activist investors from being put to a vote at the shareholder meeting that will happen in May.

For the first time ever, Exxon has taken legal action by suing to thwart a shareholder proposal, according to Reuters. Meanwhile, the judge who was given the case has a history of siding with conservative causes.

Exxon believes that an "extreme agenda" motivates the investors and that their repeated suggestions fail to improve long-term shareholder value or serve the interests of investors.

Pushing for 'Scope 3' Goals

A coalition of activist investors, including the American activist investment company Arjuna Capital and the shareholder activism organization Follow This, has pushed for more stringent climate objectives from oil giants like Exxon and others. They are pushing for Exxon to establish so-called "Scope 3" goals to lower emissions from its customers.

The New York Post said that among the five main Western oil companies, only Exxon reportedly does not have these objectives.

Follow This has presented comparable recommendations at shareholder meetings of many oil giants throughout the previous two years. Last year, it garnered 10% approval, and in 2022, it got 28%. Exxon wants to drop the Scope 3 objectives out of its proxy statement since, according to the oil giant, shareholders have already rejected them.

See Also: Over 300 Companies to Unveil Environmental Impact in Upcoming Reports

Exxon vs. Activist Investors

In their proxy statement, Exxon is requesting that the Scope 3 plan be excluded by the court in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas.

This court often handles cases originating from the Southern District, which includes Spring, Texas, the location of Exxon's headquarters. Around 5 o'clock on Sunday afternoon, the Northern court received the complaint.

US District Judge Reed O'Connor of Fort Worth will be hearing the case. He has a history of siding with conservative plaintiffs who challenge regulations and legislation related to healthcare, LGBTQ rights, and weapons.

Based on Exxon's arguments, Arjuna and Follow This are trying to become shareholders, so they may push for policies that would hurt the company's current operations.

Last year, Follow This suggested that shareholders would be best served by adopting a medium-term goal that covers Scope 3 and investing in the energy transition, both of which are in line with the Paris Agreement. It argued that if goals were defined, there would be less chance of stranded asset losses, governmental interventions, and loss of access to financial markets.

Exxon is seeking a resolution by March 19. In order to have its annual shareholder meeting on May 29, the company must submit its proxy statement no later than April 11.

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Beijing (Gasgoo)- On January 21, Dongfeng Automobile Company (DFAC), the light truck arm of Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor, celebrated the completion of its new assembly line in Xiangyang, Hubei Province.



Photo credit: DFAC

Meanwhile, a white Dongfeng Captain E-Star slowly rolled off on site, signifying the official production of DFAC's 4 millionth vehicle.

In response to the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and to seize opportunities in intelligent development, DFAC deepened its collaboration with Xiangyang city in April 2022. Over a year, they jointly designed a smart, digital, and green factory, adhering to leading domestic standards. The construction included the completion of the new smart assembly line, casting factory, and the intelligent manufacturing center.

Projected milestones include the completion of the casting factory transition by March 2024, the initiation of light commercial vehicle production in October, and the commencement of new energy vehicle production in December.

These developments are set to elevate DFAC's manufacturing, delivery, and digital operational capabilities for the "Dongfeng Light Truck" brand, reinforcing product branding, corporate system strength, and overall market competitiveness. Simultaneously, the new factory is poised to introduce six new models, forming a diverse product matrix supporting oil-fueled and electric, light truck and van, gas and hydrogen vehicle variants.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 22, 2024, Bebest (Shanghai) Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd. ("BIBO") officially announced the completion of its A+ round of financing, which was jointly led by Meridian Capital and Orinno Capital, with additional investments from Fengfan Ventures ("Fengfan" is Chinese Pinyin), Shanghai Science and Technology Venture Capital (Group) Co., Ltd., Baolong Automotive, and existing shareholder Sequoia Capital China.

The latest A+ round funding raised over 200 million yuan for BIBO, adding to the company's cumulative financing of over 400 million yuan in the A round throughout 2023. This funding will primarily be utilized to expand the scale of mass production for the full-stack brake-by-wire products, as well as the R&D, and mass production of intelligent suspension and steering products. The objective is to achieve multi-dimensional product delivery for chassis-by-wire products and establish a cross-domain integrated control technology layout for chassis.

BIBO's digital production lines for BIBC, BEBS, BESC/BABS; photo credit: BIBO

BIBO stands as China's leading supplier of intelligent chassis solutions, operating two major R&D centers in Shanghai Hongqiao and Beijing Fengtai, along with a production base in Nantong city, Jiangsu province. The company has developed a comprehensive product matrix, including intelligent braking, steering, suspension controllers, and domain controllers, dedicated to providing core components and system solutions for intelligent chassis to the global automotive market.

In 2023, BIBO's Nantong manufacturing center started operation, with such products as integrated brake-by-wire system (BIBC), electro-hydraulic brake-by-wire system (BEBS), electronic body stability control systems (BESC), and anti-lock braking systems (BABS) all in mass production. The annual production capacity of BIBO's full-stack intelligent braking products reached 2 million sets. Its second-generation integrated brake-by-wire system (BIBC 2.0), supporting dual-control EPB (electronic parking brake) and brake redundant module (BRBM), is expected to go into mass production in mid-2024.

BIBO said it has successfully made the comprehensive layout for core components of intelligent chassis. The electric redundant steering system (BEPS) and intelligent suspension air supply system (BAS) are set to enter mass production in 2024. For the next-generation hardware and software separated cross-domain chassis system, electronic-mechanical braking system (BEMB), steer-by-wire system (BSBW), and chassis domain control unit (BCDU) are already in the testing phase. BIBO aims to provide highly competitive full-stack chassis-by-wire solutions to customers by 2025.

In addition, BIBO revealed that it achieved delivery of over 100,000 sets of brake-by-wire products last year, with core products like the BIBC, BEBS, and BESC adopted by nearly 30 car models from more than 10 major automakers worldwide.
Off the back of strong growth in Europe, Sydney-based TFE Hotels has announced the appointment of international hotelier, Asli Kutlucan, as Chief Executive Officer of Adina Hotels in Europe. The move comes as TFE prepares to debut the homegrown A by Adina brand into the European market in 2025 and begins the pre-development work for two new A by Adina properties in Australia.

In speaking about the appointment, TFE Hotels' CEO, Antony Ritch, said Asli was a commercially focused and strategic leader with an impressive international career spanning 30 years across both operations and development. Asli joins Adina Hotels in Europe at a time of strong growth - with seven new hotels opening since 2021 including the debut of the Adina Hotel brand in Austria and Switzerland and Adina Serviced Apartments in Vienna - and a robust pipeline.

Back home in Berlin after her first ever visit to Australia in December, Asli said she was inspired by the soulful hospitality she had received.

Kutlucan said the last few years highlighted the remarkable resilience of the extended-stay segment, positioning Adina Hotels and Serviced Apartments as a strong player.

Asli fell in love with hospitality whilst working in her family-owned hotel in Turkey and, from those humble beginnings, has worked in hotels operations, hotel development, construction and acquisition in the US, UK, Rwanda and, most recently, Amsterdam.

Asli joins Adina fresh from a thirteen-year stint at Cycas Hospitality where, as Chief Development Officer, she was responsible for championing employee culture and growing Cycas' hotel portfolio across the UK and continental Europe. From one hotel in Liverpool, she now leaves a portfolio of 54 hotels (around 8000 keys) spread across 12 countries and categories.

Asli, who started at Adina's Berlin Head Office in mid-January, blends hands-on hospitality experience with a Finance MBA from Liverpool University.
Overseeing all sales and marketing efforts at The Lodge at Sonoma, Whitaker will implement her many years of experience to maximize revenue and occupancy at the luxury resort, executing impactful brand initiatives and partnerships. Having successfully held leadership positions in prominent tourism markets, including Vail, Napa, and Miami, Whitaker looks forward to applying her expertise to the distinctive Sonoma destination.

Throughout her career, Whitaker has critically assisted in the repositioning of three major hotels - National Hotel Miami Beach, YVE Hotel Miami and Manor Vail Lodge - after brand transitions and substantial renovations. Whitaker additionally made a significant impact on total revenue generation through marketing, group, transient, and catering/banquet sales alongside properties' food and beverage outlets. Most recently, Whitaker served as the National Sales Manager at The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa, where she was responsible for developing and managing group business in the Midwest and International Markets.
WASHINGTON  The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) announced the launch of the Global Technology 100 (T100), a group of the worlds best and brightest hospitality technology leaders that will advise the hotel industry on leveraging the latest technology to better serve guests and maximize profitability.

T100 replaces three advisory groups within AHLA  HTNGs Executive Leadership Group, Vendor Advisory Council, and the Industry Advisors. By bringing these groups together under the T100 banner, members can collaborate more closely and reach decisions more quickly.

T100 will ensure AHLA stays on top of emerging technologies that will improve guest experiences and profitability, while developing best practices and other materials to advise AHLA members.

Five industry leaders with unparalleled hospitality technology expertise will lead T100:

Scott Strickland , EVP & CIO, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (chair)

, EVP & CIO, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (chair) Luis Segredo , CEO, DataTravel LLC (vice chair)

, CEO, DataTravel LLC (vice chair) Kristie Goshow , CCO, KSL Resorts (immediate past chair)

, CCO, KSL Resorts (immediate past chair) Jeff Bzdawka , CEO, Knowland (program & membership chair)

, CEO, Knowland (program & membership chair) Bryan Hammer, VP of IT, Belmond (workgroup chair)

The chair of the group will rotate to ensure technology issues are debated with a view toward resolutions that benefit hoteliers and solution providers.

T100 is all about ensuring our industry leverages the latest technology to better serve guests, associates, and communities, while maximizing profitability, said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. This group is composed of the top hospitality technology leaders on the planet, and together they will serve as the chief driver of innovation throughout our industry.

Learn more about T100 and its membership here.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 18, BYD held a passenger car brand launch event at the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah in Jakarta, introducing three battery electric vehicle (BEV) models  the BYD ATTO 3, the BYD DOLPHIN, and the BYD SEAL (named Yuan PLUS, Dolphin, and Seal in China). The event marked BYD's commitment to the Indonesian market and its vision for a sustainable automotive future.

BYD SEAL; photo credit: BYD

Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, delivered a video speech during the event, sharing BYD's plans to invest in establishing a production base in the country. He expressed the belief that BYD's presence would offer Indonesian consumers more choices in new energy vehicles, enhancing the popularity of electric cars in Indonesia.

Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division, addressed the audience, stating, "We are fully aware of Indonesia's growing demand for new energy products and sustainable transportation. We believe that Indonesia will soon see the widespread adoption of new energy vehicles."

e-Platform 3.0; photo credit: BYD

The launch event featured various BYD technology experience zones showcasing innovations such as the e-Platform 3.0, Blade Battery, CTB (cell-to-body) integration technology, and V2L in-vehicle discharge technology, highlighting BYD's commitment to new energy technology.

Beyond introducing the brand and technology, the event included test drive sessions for the three new models. The driving route traversed the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, spanning a distance of 2.8 kilometers, with safety personnel ensuring a secure driving experience.

Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia, stated, "Since 2018, BYD commercial vehicles have been put into public transportation services in several key cities in Indonesia. Today marks a new beginning for BYD's green journey in Indonesia. We plan to open 50 stores nationwide along with our partners. Additionally, BYD will begin construction plans for production sites in Indonesia later this year, committing to building and developing an electric vehicle ecosystem and injecting new vitality into Indonesia with high-end products and excellent service."

In 2023, BYD achieved annual sales of over 3 million new energy vehicles, securing the title of the global champion by new energy vehicle sales. The footprint of BYD's new energy vehicles spans over 70 countries and regions, reaching more than 400 cities worldwide.
Paris - Handwritten Collection, a midscale collection brand of Accor, celebrates its first anniversary in January 2024, with a burgeoning roster of charming and diverse hotels around the world. The brand first launched in January 2023, with the purpose of bringing together small to mid-size hotels that authentically reflect the character and warmth of the people who love and look after them. Since then, Handwritten Collection has opened 12 curated hotels in the space of just 12 months. With around 25 hotels in the pipeline to open in 2024 and beyond and over 150 projects and leads under active investigation, Handwritten Collection is becoming one of the fastest-growing midscale collection brands in the world.

Much like a handwritten note, the signature style of each host at a Handwritten Collection hotel is what guests remember and what really sets the brand apart. This resonates strongly with travelers who are eager to experience their destinations more fully. Handwritten Collection taps into a growing desire for unique hotels with charm and personality, while delivering the assurance of Accors high standards of hospitality and globally renowned membership benefits. James Wheatcroft, Global SVP Midscale Brands, Accor

The hoteliers, or hosts, of the Handwritten Collection are passionate people who welcome guests into their world. The personal touches that each host shares with guests reflect their tastes, interests, and little quirks of their personalities. Guests discover these touchpoints at various moments throughout their stay. A culinary specialty, a unique cocktail, a design motif, or the welcome of a friendly pet  these are just a few of the ways Handwritten Collection hotels express the personal traits and passions of their hosts.

We designed Handwritten Collection to support the growing number of independent hotels in the midscale segment who are keen to leverage the powerful benefits of a leading global hotel group, while retaining the unique character they have curated.

We are very pleased with the extremely positive response to Handwritten Collection from owners and partners in our first year, and we look forward to exploring many more new opportunities for Handwritten Collection across global markets, with high expectations for a fresh round of hotel signings in 2024. Camil Yazbeck, Global Chief Development Officer, Premium, Midscale & Economy, Accor

Collection brand hotels are proliferating around the world at a rate of 25% a year, with one of the highest growth rates in the industry today. The data supports the ambitious growth plan of Handwritten Collection.

Handwritten Collection - The current portfolio

Source: Accor

Close to Sheshan National Park, Hotel Shanghai Sheshan Oriental  Handwritten Collection (China) reflects its hosts passion for seas and oceans around the globe. Built in the Mediterranean style and boasting a large tropical landscape, the hotel is surrounded by a 4,400 sqm outdoor beach and swimming pool, including a kids pool to satisfy all age needs to get immersed in the seaside vibe. In the Social Hub, guests will soon find books about the seas and oceans. This collection will be curated for all ages, from art to children's books, and novels to comics. Finally, the hosts passion will also be present at the bar with a Signature cocktail - The Seawater Martini, a salty alternative to the traditional dirty martini.

Source: Accor

At The Hotel Faber Park Singapore  Handwritten Collection(Singapore), guests experience the elegance and history of a bygone era. Through its architecture and design, the hotel tells the story of Mount Faber Park, one of the oldest parks in Singapore. In 1845, the parks namesake, Captain Charles Edward Faber of the Madras Engineers, built a winding road to the summit to install a signal station. The hotels design and layout are inspired by Captain Fabers intrepid path through the rolling foothills. Surrounded by lush green parkland and featuring spectacular vistas of the city and harbor, guests will feel at ease among the sense of history and devotion to nature at this special place.

 Source: Accor

Designed as a chic and arty holiday home, Saint Gervais Hotel & Spa  Handwritten Collection(France)feels like a getaway to Turkey, thanks to the hosts passion for Ottoman culture. Guests arrive to the sound of oriental music and a welcome ritual with Turkish eau de cologne. Spa treatments are infused with rosewater and orange blossom extracts, while a library corner in the lobby offers books for a deep dive in Turkish history. Fresh daily breakfasts are prepared with some of the owners favorite ingredients, such as borek, feta, olives, parsley and tomatoes. Turkish coffee and tea are available throughout the day, with Turkish inspired cocktails in the evening, made with raki liquor and pomegranate syrup.

Source: Accor

Residing within a historic Italian Renaissance styled building, Hotel Morris Sydney  Handwritten Collection(Australia) is a rare example of the renowned Inter-War Palazzo style by architect, Virgil Dante Cizzio. The hotel has found new life as a boutique hotel with an evocative bar - poised like dusk, between old and new, light and dark, Italian design and Australian influence. Each venue represents a distinct but interlinked story and to move between the bar and hotel is to experience a transition in mood and design. Touchpoints of the hosts penchant for Italian culture include a refreshing Italian drink on arrival; a Bar Morris bill ritual of dice for a chance at a complimentary Amaro nightcap; and a deck of scopa playing cards placed in-room.

Source: Accor

The hosts of Andaman Beach Hotel Phuket - Handwritten Collection(Thailand) strive to create moments of connection for guests through a passion for world travel. Guests are offered welcome drinks and sweets inspired by either Phuket or the different destinations that hotel team members have explored. Guests are also invited to enjoy a reading corner in the lobby at their leisure, where they will find a series of travel books with bookmarks recounting the host's own travel experiences. Each guestroom is uniquely designed, although they all feature a thoughtfully placed local guidebook, curated by the host, with recommendations for special encounters with local artisans throughout Phuket.

Source: Accor

Splendid Hotel Lac dAnnecy  Handwritten Collection(France) celebrates its hosts passion for Art Deco design. The hotel is the work of renowned designer Thierry DIstria, who introduced a series of Art Deco motifs to the hotels architecture and interiors, then layered in elements of 1950s modernity. A carefully curated selection of Art Deco pieces, artwork, sculptures and vintage pieces add a touch of whimsy to the guest experience, while the hotels restaurant is done up in true Art Deco style. At the bar, guests are invited to choose from a list of both creative and classic cocktails, including the hosts favorite, the Cosmopolitan.

Source: Accor

At the coastal Relais San Martino Salento  Handwritten Collection(Italy), the owner's fascination with the sea is a recurring motif throughout the hotel. From the glittering glass spheres in the hotels decor, to marine-based wellness treatments, seawater guestroom amenities, sea inspired cocktails and a restaurant menu designed around seawater  guests will feel immersed in the beachy, oceanic vibe. Once they are fully inspired to go for a dip, guests are invited to go wild swimming at the nearby beach, or enjoy the enchanting wellness area, featuring an outdoor pool, whirlpool, fitness boutique, and a meditation citrus grove.

Source: Accor

At Oru Hub Hotel Tallinn  Handwritten Collection Tallinn(Estonia) the hotelier shares a passion for traveling from the moment guests arrive, with the feel of stepping into a photo collage. Estonian design agency Velvet and the interior architecture studio Aeris created an award-winning design for the hotel, with a balance of relaxing and social spaces, including a workshop and a yoga room. Images from the hosts favorite travel moments feature throughout the hotel. These photos are also used to create postcards which guests can mail to friends from the hotel mailbox, and are bound as a photobook that includes anecdotes from the hosts travels.

 Source: Accor

The Crown Krakow  Handwritten Collection(Poland) is a historic site that has been revived by hoteliers with a passion for Polish art and a vision to marry the artistic and utilitarian ambitions of the Art Deco movement with the comforts of modern hospitality. The hotel is decorated with the works of the hosts favorite contemporary artists: painter Jacek Hazuka and sculptor Adam Myjak. Postcards and a monograph of their works are available to guests. Social events are often held with Polish artists in the bar  best enjoyed while sipping the hotels signature Belvedere vodka cocktail, a vibrant concoction inspired by the colorful work of artist Leon Tarasiewicz.

Source: Accor

Wonil Hotel Perth - Handwritten Colle ction (Australia) is a beautifully designed and picturesque hotel that radiates a sophisticated allure through its carefully curated interiors. The host, a director of the Forrest Research Foundation, shares his passion for knowledge and higher learning throughout the hotel. The welcome letter to guests sets the tone, detailing fun facts about research projects happening in the area. With a focus on conservation and environmentally sustainable design, the hotel is named after the wonil - the Noongar name for peppermint tree, which grows on the riverbank where the hotel resides. Peppermint-infused cookies in each guestroom create a delightful association and sensory experience of the region.

Source: Accor

Fans of the 1970s-1980s Manchester music scene will find their vibe at Les Capitouls Toulouse Centre  Handwritten Collection (France). The pink brick townhouse features an inviting English-inspired decor and a steady stream of British New Wave. Guests are invited to enjoy English beers or cocktails under the glass roof of the Wilson bar, surrounded by posters, audio cassettes and memorabilia depicting the legendary era of Hacienda and Factory Records. Guestrooms feature record players and vinyl records for an authentic listening experience of the music that shaped a generation. Breakfast is also a hit at this comfy spot, with homemade dishes and a special  after concert  energizing shot.

Source: Accor

Number 11, St. Julians Malta  Handwritten Collection(Malta) is a civilized, adults-only hotel where guests embark on a sensory journey, inspired by the hosts passion for the Mediterranean islands. Guests are greeted with a refreshing and herbaceous alcohol-free cocktail upon arrival, ideally enjoyed at the hotels rooftop lounge and pool while gazing across the sea. Breakfast includes a selection of Mediterranean specialties, while local favorite, Hammetts Mestizo, serves up delicious shareable plates throughout the day and evening. The hotel is perfectly located in a fashionable district, surrounded by vibrant clubs, fabulous shopping, and a cosmopolitan experience of this unique Mediterranean region.

About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group

Accor is a world leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,300 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries. The group has one of the industry's most diverse and fully-integrated hospitality ecosystems encompassing more than 40 luxury, premium, midscale and economy hotel brands, entertainment and nightlife venues, restaurants and bars, branded private residences, shared accommodation properties, concierge services, co-working spaces and more. Accor's unmatched position in lifestyle hospitality  one of the fastest growing categories in the industry  is led by Ennismore, a joint venture, which Accor holds a majority shareholding. Ennismore is a creative hospitality company with a global collective of entrepreneurial and founder-built brands with purpose at their heart. Accor boasts an unrivalled portfolio of distinctive brands and more than 260,000 team members worldwide. Members benefit from the company's comprehensive loyalty program  ALL - Accor Live Limitless  a daily lifestyle companion that provides access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences. Through its Planet 21  Acting Here, Accor Solidarity, RiiSE and ALL Heartist Fund initiatives, the Group is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information visit group.accor.com, or follow Accor on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Infor, the industry cloud company, today announced Valley View Casino & Hotel, Southern California's premier gaming destination and a loyal customer of over two decades, is implementing Infor's hospitality Point of Sale (POS), Hospitality Management System (HMS) and Table Reservation Management. With the automation of reward redemption, Valley View aims to elevate the overall customer experience, providing streamlined processes that cater to the unique needs of the gaming sector.

Valley View's adoption of Infor's POS and HMS marks a milestone for us, as it represents the inaugural implementation of Infor POS on the gaming floor. This strategic move, driven by exceptional support and the pursuit of operational excellence, showcases the trust Valley View places in Infor. The decision not only addresses their current challenges but also positions Valley View at the forefront of innovation and success in the hospitality industry. Joe Vargas, SVP & general manager, Infor Hospitality

For hospitality brands to succeed, their technology must evolve to meet changing guest expectations. Infor POS offers new positive functionality over the previous solution, with player and guest focused benefits to unlock new possibilities.

We are delighted to be the first casino in the country to implement Infor's Point of Sale System. Our 20-year partnership with Infor has been a win/win scenario for both companies since its inception in 2004 and we are confident that will continue with their new advanced technology into POS, another integral part of our business. Bruce Howard, General Manager of Valley View Casino & Hotel

Efficient Table Management - The new solution offers more efficient table management with simplified check splitting, a merge function to seamlessly combine people from different tables, and a repeat button for quick reordering at the same table.

The new solution offers more efficient table management with simplified check splitting, a merge function to seamlessly combine people from different tables, and a repeat button for quick reordering at the same table. Enhanced Menu Management - With enhanced menu management, it is now possible to create items for multiple revenue centers, eliminating the need for multiple items. This streamlined approach includes easy item inactivation and touchscreen deactivation.

With enhanced menu management, it is now possible to create items for multiple revenue centers, eliminating the need for multiple items. This streamlined approach includes easy item inactivation and touchscreen deactivation. Integrated Room Charge Information - To reduce social contact for guests, the solution offers seamless integration with Hotel Management System (HMS) for checked-out status, packages, stay dates, and room details. It can also charge to checked-out rooms without front desk assistance. The user-friendly interface provides better readability, and detailed HMS information on the POS folio for check-ins.

Our decision to continue to partner with Infor in bringing their renowned hospitality POS and HMS into the gaming industry underscores our commitment to innovation. Infor's track record in the hospitality sector speaks volumes, and this groundbreaking move signifies our dedication to providing an unparalleled customer experience. Todd Jackson, Vice President of Gaming Operations and Information Technology at Valley View Casino and Hotel

Learn more about Infor Hospitality:

https://www.infor.com/industries/hospitality

About Valley View Casino & Hotel

Valley View Casino & Hotel, Southern California's premier gaming destination, combines the thrill of all your favorite slots and table games with beautifully appointed hotel rooms, eight outstanding full-service and quick-serve restaurants, six bars and lounges and unparalleled guest service.

The casino features over 2,000 of the newest, most exciting slot machines and thrilling table games including Blackjack, Roulette, Pai Gow Poker and more. As a welcoming gesture, all new members receive over $100 in free instant offers at the most rewarding Players Club in San Diego, no strings attached. Membership is always free.

Exceptional dining options at Valley View Casino & Hotel include the iconic Maine Lobster Buffet; the award-winning Black&Blue Steakhouse and Lounge featuring a spectacular 3,300-gallon saltwater aquarium for guests to admire; The Cafe, offering classic breakfast and lunch favorites, Asian specialties, homemade desserts and more; Patties & Pints, with delicious American fare and a local craft beer bar; Sweets, a pastry, coffee and sandwich shop; Stix, an Asian noodle bar; Snax, a 24-hour snack bar; and, Corner Market, a grab-and-go spot with various fan favorites.

The boutique hotel features 12 Luxury Suites (1,050 sq. ft.) and 96 Deluxe Rooms (520 sq. ft.) all with breathtaking views of the Palomar Mountain Range, along with free internet, free valet service and a complimentary VIP breakfast. For more information about Valley View Casino & Hotel, please visit ValleyViewCasino.com or call 760-291-5500.

About Infor

Infor is a global leader in business cloud software specialized by industry. We develop complete solutions for our focus industries. Infor's mission-critical enterprise applications and services are designed to deliver sustainable operational advantages with security and faster time to value. Over 60,000 organizations in more than 175 countries rely on Infor's 17,000 employees to help achieve their business goals. As a Koch company, our financial strength, ownership structure, and long-term view empower us to foster enduring, mutually beneficial relationships with our customers. Visit www.infor.com.
Newton, MA  Sonesta International Hotels Corporation (Sonesta), the 8th largest hotel company in the U.S., announced the execution of 65 new franchise agreements in 2023, spanning 12 of the companys 17 brands. The new agreements demonstrate the continued expansion of Sonestas global franchising presence with the addition of 5,697 new guest rooms.

Sonestas success in 2023 was driven by our franchise development strategy and our commitment to continue strengthening our capabilities and fortifying franchisee relationships. Keith Pierce, Sonestas Executive Vice President, President of Franchise & Development

At the end of 2021, Sonesta Franchising debuted in the U.S. with a complete platform of franchise services, hotel operations and franchise support. With significant growth in 2022 and 2023, and the recent establishment of The James lifestyle brand, Sonesta Essential focus service brand and two soft brands, Mod, A Sonesta Collection, and Classico, A Sonesta Collection, the company anticipates a strong 2024 as the companys brand portfolio meets the needs of guests and owners alike.

With last years launch of four new brands, we will continue to expand our franchising presence across several new segments in 2024, Pierce added. We expect our recent growth to continue as we execute deals with flexible standards and a turnaround from application to execution in just 30 days, creating a business model that is primed for conversions.

With hospitality ownership and operating experience, Sonesta possesses a unique viewpoint and a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our franchisees across our portfolio. We leverage this perspective to help our existing franchise partners focus on their own success. This perspective also allows us to stay ahead of industry trends and identify opportunities to diversify the portfolio geographically and across brand segments. Brian Quinn, Sonestas Chief Development Officer

The 65 franchise agreement executions completed in 2023 are distributed across 12 of Sonestas brands. Sonesta Franchising provides franchisees with a range of options across the upper upscale, lifestyle, upscale, midscale, extended-stay and economy segments. Sonestas continued growth, owner centric approach, market availability and executive accessibility make it a compelling choice for owners.

About Sonesta

Sonesta is the 8th largest hotel company according to Smith Travel Research (STR) with approximately 1,200 properties totaling 100,000 guest rooms across 17 brands in eight countries. Sonesta owns, manages and/or franchises under The Royal Sonesta; The James, Classico  a Sonesta Collection, Sonesta Hotels & Resorts; Mod  A Sonesta Collection, Sonesta Select; Sonesta Essential, Sonesta ES (Extended Stay) Suites, Sonesta Simply Suites and Sonesta Cruise Collection operating in Egypt, also; Sonesta Posadas del Inca; Red Lion Hotels; Red Lion Inn & Suites; Signature Inn; GuestHouse Extended Stay; Knight's Inn; Americas Best Value Inn and Canadas Best Value Inn. For more information about Sonesta and its locations, visit franchise.sonesta.com or email [email protected].
In todays world, the most in-demand skill sets change yearly, young graduates have trouble bagging their dream jobs, and employers struggle to fill essential roles. Yet, one sector doesnt suffer from this disconnect between academic education and industry needs. Its the hospitality industry, and vocational education is its proven solution.

By offering dual education with industry partnerships, hospitality Vocational Education and Training (VET) gives students the skills they need to succeed in the real world and meet the talent needs of the industry. This article examines the mutual benefits of educational industry partnerships, explains how they work, and provides practical tips on how to create them for a win-win solution.

The impact of industry partners in Vocational Education

Establishing partnerships between vocational education institutions and local businesses is a mutually beneficial arrangement that offers many advantages, such as:

Enhancing students' learning experiences.

Providing exposure to real-world industry practices (see VET apprenticeship model).

Promoting career readiness and employability.

Bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry skills.

Such partnerships are a key component of the Swiss dual education model which has earned Switzerland a very low youth unemployment rate (approximately 3% compared to EU averages of around 17%). Governments across the globe and the European Commission are adopting this dual training system because it responds to economic needs, with industry partnerships providing learners with real work experience and applied learning opportunities, which makes graduates more immediately employable.

The benefits of Vocational Education partnerships

The first beneficiary of educational industry partnerships is the student. Todays prospective college students (Gen Z) are increasingly interested in alternatives to traditional higher education, and vocational education meets three of their top priorities: entrepreneurship opportunities, job security, and a fast path to high earning potential.

Indeed, VET allows students to progress in their education while earning money and qualifications they can use immediately, with opportunities to enter the workforce quickly or start a business. Partnerships between educational institutions and local hospitality businesses are the key to this learning model and the source of these advantages for students:

1. Practical experience & real-world learning

By collaborating with local hotels and restaurants, educational institutions can create learning opportunities that offer students practical experience. In addition to being more stimulating and hands-on than reading assignments and classroom lectures, practical learning and industry immersion prepare students for the workforce by exposing them to the daily operations and trends of the hospitality industry. Its not just more fun, its a more effective way to learn.

2. Boosting career pathways

Partnering with local hospitality businesses provides students with job opportunities after graduation. Businesses that have established relationships with educational institutions are more likely to hire students who have completed their programs. This leads to better job prospects for students and a more prepared workforce for the hospitality industry.

3. Establishing professional relationships

Partnerships between educational institutions and local hospitality businesses can establish long-term relationships that benefit all parties. Students get the opportunity to earn money while learning, making it easier to finance their studies. Educational institutions benefit from the expertise of businesses, and businesses benefit from the fresh ideas and perspectives of students.

Benefits for hospitality businesses

Hospitality businesses also benefit greatly from collaborating with local schools, colleges, and training programs. This collaboration not only helps businesses fill their vacant positions with qualified candidates, but it also provides opportunities for employee training and development.

Moreover, such collaboration increases community engagement and contributes to a positive brand image for the business. The exchange of ideas and knowledge between industry professionals and subject-expert academics can also lead to the development of innovative solutions for industry challenges.

According to a study on cooperative education, hospitality industry partners perceived five notable benefits from partnering with schools:

Recruitment benefits: easier access to a better pool of talent.

Enhanced skill sets: students develop both hard and soft skills

Social responsibility: a pay-it-forward mentality for a healthy work environment.

Employee loyalty: lower attrition rates and better engagement among students hired

Resources: optimization of shared resources and more growth opportunities

One respondent mentioned the innovation factor:

Students bring an energy and a freshness of perspective to their work that is valuable. Sometimes students have ideas that would be difficult for someone who works in the industry to devise single-handedly. This is the beautiful new perspective offered by students.

Establishing successful industry partnerships

Creating partnerships between educational institutions and hospitality businesses is mutually beneficial, but its not always easy to get started. Businesses have their unique requirements and limitations, such as seasonal demands, financial considerations, and compliance policies. Educational institutions also have unique standards about the academic implications and employment conditions for students.

By following the tips outlined below, industry partnerships with schools are more likely successful and lead to increased innovation and growth for both parties.

Here are some tips on how to create successful partnerships:

1. Identify common goals

Before establishing a partnership, it is essential to identify common goals that both parties can work towards. This helps ensure that the partnership is mutually beneficial and that both parties are working towards a common goal.

2. Communicate effectively

Effective communication is essential in any partnership. Both parties must be clear about their expectations, goals, and timelines. To ensure that the partnership is successful, it is essential to communicate regularly and honestly.

3. Create trust and collaboration

Partnerships can be complex, so both parties need to be flexible and open to compromise. Both parties must be willing to acknowledge each others expertise, limitations, and requirements, and be fully invested in shared initiatives. This requires accepting feedback and changes and working together to find solutions that benefit everyone.

Examples of partnerships in the hospitality industry

To give you a better idea of how industry partnerships work in practice, let's take a closer look at some successful initiatives and programs.

For background, EHL, founded in 1893 and ranked number one among hospitality schools worldwide, is a prime example of an institution that maintains successful partnerships in the hospitality industry. The school has long-established partnerships with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott International, Accor, and Hilton, among others.

The experts from EHLs Education Consulting branch developed the VET by EHL licensing model to bring the expertise of EHL to organizations and training centers around the world, with VET hospitality programs that involve industry partners and lead to EHL-approved professional diplomas.

One such program is the VET by EHL Apprenticeship Model program, which provides students with a three-semester apprenticeship that includes four days a week of on-the-job training in a partner hotel or restaurant, interspersed with one day of classroom learning. Implemented by VET by EHL partner schools around the world, this program encourages internship placement in local hotels and restaurants to allow students to gain practical experience in their market and build strong relationships with local hiring professionals while they study. Upon completion of the program, graduates receive not only a recognized Swiss federal diploma but, in most cases, they also get a job offer from their partner hotel or restaurant.

Consider the example of the Bhutan International School of Hospitality and Tourism (BISHT), which was the first VET by EHL center to open its doors. Using the VET partnership model, they developed a strong talent pool of students actively recruited by local businesses in Bhutan. This led to 95% of graduates finding gainful employment, with 60% being directly hired by local industries and internationally.

Another example comes from Sri Lanka, where an urgent need to fulfill the industry's demand for a skilled workforce motivated Sri Lankas SHMA (Swiss Hotel Management Academy) to implement VET by EHL programs via an asset-light model. SHMA partnered with Colombos finest hotels to deliver its VET program. In practice, this means that the theoretical classes are held in hotel conference spaces while the practical training takes place at some of the countrys top-ranked facilities.

Testimonials from educational institutions and industry partners highlight the benefits of these partnerships.

The VET Swiss professional diploma in hospitality training program was a great initiative for enhancing the skill set of enthusiastic hospitality students. They enjoyed the interactive sessions and gained valuable skills that they can apply to their daily work. They also felt more confident, empowered, and motivated after completing this program. Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII

HOW TO OVERCOME THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY SKILLS GAP IN INDIA

This (VET by EHL) pioneering scheme aims to bring a fresh approach to resourcing, training and HR, and to nurturing young talent on the ground in the Maldives. Together with EHL, we are committed to providing an enriching pathway to success for those who wish to rise to their full potential in hospitality management. Mr. Mohamed Rasheed, Director of HR at the flagship Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

SOLVING THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY LABOR SHORTAGE WITH IN-HOUSE HOTEL TRAINING

In conclusion, industry partnerships with schools offer a win-win solution for both students and employers. By providing students with real-world learning experiences and job opportunities, and by giving employers access to a skilled and knowledgeable talent pool, these partnerships are essential for the growth and development of the hospitality industry.

However, not just any partnership will do and collaboration can be complicated, which is why hospitality schools and businesses should call on the experience of experts, such as the team that runs VET by EHL, to create their industry partnership agreements. This collaboration allows educational institutions and hospitality businesses to implement successful collaborations based on each party's unique needs and mutual goals. By following the tips outlined above, partnerships can be successful and lead to increased innovation and growth for both parties.

To learn more about VET solutions, continue your reading with these articles.

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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Courtyard Toronto Airport

InnVest Hotels announced the acquisition of 10 Ontario and Halifax Hotels effective January 18, 2024. The high-quality portfolio includes a mix of focus service, extended-stay and full-service hotels with 1,737 guestrooms and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Acquired hotels include Marriott Toronto Airport, Courtyard Toronto Airport, Residence Inn Toronto Airport, Hotel Carlingview, Courtyard Vaughan, Courtyard Markham, Residence Inn Markham, Townplace Suites Sudbury, Cambridge Suites Halifax and The Prince George Halifax.

This strategic acquisition adds to our existing Greater Toronto Area hotel portfolio and marks our return to the Halifax market. Many of the hotels will undergo a multi-faceted renovation over the coming years to elevate the guest experience.

"We are delighted to announce our largest acquisition since 2007 which demonstrates confidence in our vertically integrated hospitality organization and the Canadian hotel market. We welcome the 766 new team members that have joined our organization." said Lydia Chen, President and CEO of InnVest.

Aside from the Marriott Toronto Airport, which will continue to be managed by Marriott Hotels, the hotel portfolio will be managed by iHotels. The acquisition will grow InnVest's Marriott branded franchise and managed portfolio to 14 hotels making us one of the largest owners of the brand in Canada.
DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences

This opening marks the entry of the first internationally branded hotel in Ben Guerir, and the first for DoubleTree by Hilton in Morocco

Today, Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the opening of the DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences in Morocco.

Offering a unique blend of modern architecture and warm Moroccan hospitality, the property is ideally located near the city of Marrakech, one of the largest leisure destinations in Morocco. From standard and deluxe rooms to the one-bedroom apartments, each of the hotels 215 guest rooms are designed with style and functionality in mind for the ultimate comfort.

Guests can indulge in the rich and vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean at the onsite restaurant, VIRIDIS. The pool bar, EUTONY, invites guests to experience relaxation while sipping on a refreshing beverage or savouring a light snack in a serene surrounding. Guests can also make use of the DOUBLETREE MARKET, a restaurant that offers curated delights from gourmet snacks to unique souvenirs. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Andreas Lackner, vice president, Operations, Africa and Indian Ocean, Hilton said, We are thrilled to continue our growth in Africa with the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences  joining six operating properties in Morocco. As tourism continues to grow significantly across the continent, this landmark opening demonstrates our commitment to the region and highlights the exciting opportunities we see for our continued expansion in Morocco, where we plan to more than double our presence in the coming years. We look forward to welcoming guests to this beautiful hotel.

DoubleTree by Hilton Ben Guerir Hotel & Residences is well positioned and equipped to cater to business and conference needs, with five meeting rooms and a grand ballroom. The largest meeting room covers an area of 125-square-meters and is ideal for hosting large events.

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Gary Steffen, global category head, Full-Service Brands, Hilton, said, The debut of DoubleTree by Hilton in Morocco is a landmark moment, and a key part of the strategic growth of our full-service brands in Africa. DoubleTree by Hilton is the second fastest growing Hilton brand on the African continent, with 20 properties either operating or under development. We look forward to welcoming travellers to this outstanding hotel, where theyll find the best of Moroccan hospitality paired with DoubleTrees signature warm welcome.

Ben Guerir aspires to be one of the leading academic destinations in the Kingdom and hosts the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, which has more than 5,600 students. The university offers a diverse range of programs across various fields such as science and technology, health, humanities, social sciences, business, and management.

The hotel is located in the heart of the prestigious Mohamed VI Polytechnic University, in the King Mohammed VI Green City, and an hours drive from Marrakech. The Green City has been designed as an intellectual research hub, with a focus on sustainability and renewable energy. The hotel is surrounded by lush greenery, retail, and office spaces, making it a coveted address for business and leisure travellers alike. Located a few kilometres from downtown Ben Guerir and public transportation, the property also offers an airport shuttle service to Marrakesh Menara Airport and Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport for guests convenience.
La Quinta Inns & Suites El Paso East

CBRE Hotels is soliciting offers to acquire the fee-simple interest in the La Quinta Inns & Suites in El Paso, Texas. The property is located off Interstate 10, and five miles from El Paso International Airport. Thanks to this prime location, the hotel provides easy access to many of the demand drivers throughout El Paso, including El Paso Convention Center, Fort Bliss military base, and U.S.-Mexico border.

Investment Highlights

La Quinta Inns & Suites - Opportunity to acquire a 103-room, four-story, La Quinta Inns & Suites that sits on 2.05 acres of land in El Paso East, Texas. The hotels guestrooms and bathrooms were fully renovated in 2023.

- Opportunity to acquire a 103-room, four-story, La Quinta Inns & Suites that sits on 2.05 acres of land in El Paso East, Texas. The hotels guestrooms and bathrooms were fully renovated in 2023. Convenient Location - The hotel is located off Interstate 10, highly visible from the expressway, and is just five miles from El Paso International Airport.

- The hotel is located off Interstate 10, highly visible from the expressway, and is just five miles from El Paso International Airport. Rapidly Increasing Revenue Trend - The La Quinta has been showing a rapidly increasing revenue trend. The hotels room revenue in year-end 2023 has increased by 17% over the same period in 2022.

- The La Quinta has been showing a rapidly increasing revenue trend. The hotels room revenue in year-end 2023 has increased by 17% over the same period in 2022. Diverse Demand Drivers - The La Quinta Inns & Suites is in proximity to many major areas demand generators, including medical centers, colleges, and health centers. Specifically, the property is located 0.7 mile from Del Sol Medical Center, 1.5 mile from the El Paso Community College, and 5.6 miles from the Fort Bliss military base.

- The La Quinta Inns & Suites is in proximity to many major areas demand generators, including medical centers, colleges, and health centers. Specifically, the property is located 0.7 mile from Del Sol Medical Center, 1.5 mile from the El Paso Community College, and 5.6 miles from the Fort Bliss military base. Massive Growth in U.S.  Mexico Trade - Mexico has overtaken China as Americas biggest trading partner, according to Bloomberg. U.S. goods imports from Mexico totaled $454.9 billion in 2022, up 18 percent ($70.2 billion) from 2021, and up 64 percent from 2012.

- Mexico has overtaken China as Americas biggest trading partner, according to Bloomberg. U.S. goods imports from Mexico totaled $454.9 billion in 2022, up 18 percent ($70.2 billion) from 2021, and up 64 percent from 2012. El Paso is the Sixth-Largest City in Texas - El Paso is the largest metropolitan area along the Texas-Mexico border which boasts a best-in-class, business-friendly operating environment and a high quality of living. El Paso is a top 20% U.S. performing economy and continues to experience economic growth by attracting new businesses and helping companies grow. The region represents one of North Americas largest manufacturing centers, thanks to its strategic location on the border and its bilingual and bi-cultural workforce.

For inquiries visit here.
Hudson, NY (12534)

Today

Overcast. High 46F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. A few flurries are possible. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
DPH Seeks to Revoke License for Adams Ambulance

ADAMS, Mass.  The state Department of Public Health suspended Adams Ambulance Service's license to operate on Friday effective immediately.

DPH is also seeking a temporary revocation of the license based on inadequate service, lack of staffing and planning and the service's inability to answer questions regarding operations and financing.

Adams Ambulance has been struggling financially and had been removed as the primary emergency medical service responder for two of the four towns it had covered.

"The health, safety, and welfare of residents in the communities within the impacted ambulance service area is the priority of the Department of Public Health," a DPH spokesperson said on Monday. "Ambulance services occupy a position of special public trust within their communities. The department is pursuing this action so that residents in the impacted area can remain confident that they are being provided access to reliable ambulance service in accordance with EMS System regulations."

Town officials were notified on Friday by DPH of the suspension and Northern Berkshire EMS personnel were told on Friday afternoon that the service could no longer be called for backup.

Savoy and Hawley are currently covered by Adams Ambulance for emergency calls; the towns of Adams and Cheshire voted in December to enter into memorandums of understanding with Northern Berkshire EMS for coverage. Adams Ambulance Service had still been available for mutual aid on 911 calls.

Savoy has three items regarding EMS on its agenda at Tuesday's meeting.

The service had notified DPH on Nov. 13 that it would cease operations on Dec. 31 but the 50-year-old nonprofit reorganized in an attempt to keep operating after its president and manager left. It withdrew its notice of termination on Nov. 20 but "subsequently and continually has been unwilling or unable to sufficiently answer DPHs questions about its operations and finances," according to DPH.

It also failed to put a plan in place to prevent the disruption of emergency services. Town officials in Adams and Cheshire stepped in to ensure continuation of services through Northern Berkshire EMS.

"As a result of these allegations and findings, DPH has no confidence in Adams Ambulance Service's ability to sustain paramedic-level ambulance service licensure and provide service in accordance with the EMS System regulations," stated DPH on Monday. "Such actions violate the conditions of licensure under the governing regulations and endanger the public health and safety."

The nonprofit private service has been struggling financially with an estimated deficit of more than $200,000 and had some $850,000 in delinquent billing.

On Nov. 30, the membership voted to sell the ambulance building on Columbia Street to an interested party and lease it back and a plan in place to switch billing companies, pursue delinquencies, apply for grants, fund raise and designate a town liaison to improve communications.

The service had approached the towns about funding but Adams and Cheshire officials felt their repeated questions regarding finances had not been answered. At this point, only Hawley provides some funding.

Northern Berkshire EMS was approved by DPH to operate out of the Adams Forest Wardens building as of Jan. 1. At a Selectmen's meeting last week, Green said there had been about 30 calls the first week and mutual aid was only required once.

"The logistics are working out fine. The town of Cheshire is pleased. They're monitoring, as are we, the response time," he said. "In fact the response has actually been better for Cheshire."

Police K. Scott Kelley said there had been an "unfortunate incident" with an infant that Northern Berkshire EMS and police had responded to and that the service had brought everyone involved together for a critical debrief and to talk about it.

"They're certainly moving in the right direction," he said.

Complete write-thru, Jan. 22 at 11:30 a.m.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 19, Dongfeng Motor Corporation ("Dongfeng Motor") announced the official commencement of the commercial pilot operation of Venucia's first hydrogen-powered vehicle, the Venucia V-Online Qing Jing (translating to "Hydrogen Realm"), in the Huadu District of Guangzhou city.

Photo credit: Dongfeng Motor

This commercial demonstration operation, a collaborative effort between the Huadu District Government, Dongfeng Motor Group Company Limited, Dongfeng Motor Company Limited, and Lan-You Mobility, spans 36 months. It aims to cover the Huadu Auto City and the areas surrounding the district government's location through shuttle buses and official vehicles, connecting core areas such as Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Guangzhou North Railway Station. The subsequent plan includes gradually expanding operations to cover the entire Guangzhou city.

In 2023, Venucia completed a comprehensive layout in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector, embracing plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, pure electric vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles. At the Auto Guangzhou 2023, the company elevated its NEV strategy, unveiling a three-year strategic plan focusing on technology, products, ecosystem, channels, and services.

Photo credit: Dongfeng Motor

The Venucia V-Online Qing Jing officially hit the market in November 2023 at a price of 998,800 yuan. It features a slightly smaller length and height compared to the Venucia V-Online DD-i. The distinct front design includes large-sized mesh ventilation openings, enhancing combustion efficiency. The " (translating to 'Hydrogen Boat') H2e" emblem on the rear signifies its identity as a hydrogen-powered model.

The vehicle tank can be filled up with hydrogen in just 5 minutes. Utilizing hydrogen-electric dual-drive technology, the Venucia V-Online Qing Jing boasts a maximum range of 500 km on a full tank of hydrogen and a fully charged battery. The vehicle is equipped with a hydrogen-electric hybrid intelligent control system, allowing smooth transitions in various driving conditions and maintaining low energy consumption across all terrains, achieving a range of 120 km per kilogram of hydrogen.

Dongfeng Motor expresses that the successful implementation of this project will provide valuable experience for the development of hydrogen-powered passenger vehicles, accelerate the national deployment of hydrogen fuel cell technology, drive further transformation and upgrading of China's automotive industry, and contribute to achieving the national goal of Carbon Peak and Carbon Neutrality.
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ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar (pictured left) recently concluded a high-level mission to Geneva, where he conducted a series of bilateral meetings and activities in support of the organizations safety and security priorities and air transports sustainability and resilience objectives.





These meetings included bilateral discussions with the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus; the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Rebeca Grynspan; the Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Tomas Lamanauskas; and the senior management team of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), including its Director General, Willie Walsh (pictured right).





In the course of the Secretary Generals mission, he also addressed a Town Hall meeting in IATA, where he provided the associations staff members with a comprehensive update on ICAOs work and achievements. The meeting was also the occasion for the conclusion of a new agreement by Messrs. Salazar and Walsh to extend the ICAO/IATA licence agreement in respect of the Technical Instructions For The Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (as depicted).





At IATA, Mr. Salazar highlighted the crucial importance of cooperation between the two organizations and efforts to address gaps in sustainability and safety, and noted that ICAO is taking its 80th anniversary as an opportunity to review our work and mandate in order to better serve our Member States and stakeholders.





While Mr. Salazars discussions with IATA senior management focussed on developments in international air law, sustainability, data protection and governance, and modern airline retailing standards, his meetings with his United Nations counterparts explored heightening cooperation towards both UN-system wide objectives and their specific objectives as specialized agencies. Additionally, the Secretary Generals WHO meeting encompassed priorities related to the current WHO Pandemic Treaty negotiations, while his discussions at ITU addressed common areas of interest in the fields of radionavigation-satellite service, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.





A major priority was the identification of means to heighten the sustainability of air transport, especially in the context of the progress achieved at COP 28, as was assuring the resilience of air navigation and passenger facilitation services in the context of aviations recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The UN leaders also exchanged views on the transformation and sustainability of their own organizations in this context.





Mr. Salazars three-day mission to Switzerland concluded at Geneve Aeroport on 17 January 2024, where he was received by its Director General, Andre Schneider.





The Secretary General was accompanied throughout his activities by the Directors of ICAOs Capacity Development and Implementation Bureau, Mr. Jorge Vargas and Legal and External Affairs Bureau, Mr. Michael Gill.














iciHaiti - Cap-Haitien : The Haitian Vice-Consul in Dajabon assassinated





Claude Joazard, a doctor by profession, Vice-Consul of Haiti in Dajabon, was the target of hooded and armed individuals who shot him in front of the Cap-Haitien airport, mortally wounded he died on the spot.



He was known as a strict, hardworking person and defender of the rights of Haitians at the border post between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. During the last elections, he was a candidate for mayor of the municipality of Ouanaminthe.



The violence worries Haitian consular officials in the North-East of Haiti. The majority say they have taken their family to safety outside the territory due to insecurity



S/iciHaiti






















iciHaiti - Cholera : Daily Bulletin #436





January 10, 2024 : (after more than 2 months of interruption the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP) has resumed the publication of information on the cholera situation in Haiti. Note that account given the insecurity on the ground and the inaccessibility of certain areas controlled by gangs, this information remains partial), previous Ministry bulletin January 9 https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-41485-icihaiti-cholera-daily-bulletin-435.html



Data calculated since the first confirmed case (October 3rd, 2022) according to data from the Directorate of Epidemiology, Laboratories and Research of the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP).



Total suspected cases: 78,989 since October 3rd, 2022 +20 in 24 hours

Total new confirmed cases: 4,608** cases +0 in 24 hours (no test results published by the Laboratory for 3 days)

Total hospitalized cases (suspected and confirmed): 74,228 since October 3rd + 21 in 24 hours

Total deaths: 1,161* deaths ((876 institutional deaths (+0) and 285*** community deaths (+0)) +0



*Not updated for 2 days

**Based only on cases tested, i.e. only 17.6% of suspected cases.

***Very partial data due to difficulties in accessing areas controlled by gangs.



Men: 53.06% men (=) Women 46.94% (=)



Number of tests carried out: 13,618 +0 (not updated for 3 days)



Positivity rate (average since the start of the epidemic): 33.83%, previous 33.83%



Departments with confirmed cases:

Artibonite, Center, GrandAnse, North, North West, Nippes, North-East, West, South and South-East



Previous bulletin : https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-41485-icihaiti-cholera-daily-bulletin-435.html



List of Acute Diarrhea Treatment Centers (including Cholera) : https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-37939-icihaiti-flash-list-of-acute-diarrhea-treatment-centers-including-cholera.html



Definitions :

Suspected cases:

Any person with acute watery, profuse diarrhea with or without vomiting and dehydration

Confirmed case:

Any suspected case with a positive culture for "Vibrio cholerae" or presenting an epidemiological link with a confirmed case of cholera

Hospitalized case:

Any suspected or confirmed case who spends at least 24 hours in a treatment center

Institutional death:

Any suspected or confirmed case who dies in a care center.

Community death:

Any suspected case who dies outside a care institution.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-38148-haiti-humanitarian-the-un-and-its-partners-launch-a-flash-appeal-of-$1456m-for-haiti.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-37816-icihaiti-cholera-entry-ban-on-cooked-food-from-haiti-on-the-dajabon-market.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37807-haiti-flash-cholera-the-who-is-sounding-the-alarm.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37803-haiti-flash-already-7-dead-from-cholera-and-dozens-of-suspected-cases.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37795-haiti-flash-cholera-back-in-haiti-fear-of-epidemic-the-un-ready-to-intervene.html



IH/ iciHaiti


















Tourists visit the ancient capital Kashgar, now called by its Chinese Mandarin name, Kashi. /CBS NEWS



On Jan 7US media CBS published an article about their trip to Xinjiang. Different from some Western media's rumors and slander against Xinjiang in the past, which are completely groundless, the CBS journalist made a relatively objective record of what was seen and heard during the tour, for example, admitting that the local people showed the reporter "everything" and that they did not see evidence of the so-called "detention centers and prisons." Instead, what they witnessed are local efforts to build high-speed trains, wind power plants and tourism, as well as ethnic dancing, local wine production, and a remodeled village. The journalists felt "the policing and the atmosphere were relaxed" in Urumqi at night.

Of course, as a US media outlet, CBS has tried to "strike a balance," such as distorting and extrapolating the facts with selective description. However, compared with other Xinjiang-related rumors that are widely known in the US and the West, it has added some objective elements, and is one step closer to the reality of Xinjiang. This report shows that Xinjiang, which successfully emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic, is expanding opening-up, and the truth is being uncovered by more and more people in the outside world. The big lie that some US and Western elites have been spreading about Xinjiang is already riddled with holes and has become shaky.

In fact, no matter how CBS "walks the tightrope" between the "Xinjiang" created by the US and the West and the Xinjiang their reporters see with their eyes, it is not the only window for outsiders to learn about the reality in Xinjiang. In the past year, more than 4,300 foreign guests from nearly 400 groups from other countries and international organizations visited Xinjiang, including government officials, diplomatic envoys, religious figures, experts and scholars, media journalists and ordinary people. They visited many places in Xinjiang with their own observation perspectives and narratives, but the one thing that they all found in common was that the horrible reports about Xinjiang that they read in the Western media did not match what they actually saw and heard.

Some Western individuals always dismiss the narratives that do not align with their portrayal of Xinjiang as "propaganda" or as having received "benefits" from China. The vast majority of them have never been to Xinjiang, and the very few who have also came with a preconceived agenda. As time passes and stability and development in Xinjiang continue to grow, the achievements become more and more apparent. The "information cocoon" woven by the Western individuals is destined to be shattered.

The gates of Xinjiang are wide open, with numerous people coming and going. It is not practical to specially set up an exhibition booth for any particular individual or team, and there is no need for it. If anyone thinks they would receive such treatment in Xinjiang, they are overestimating themselves. What everyone sees and hears in Xinjiang is the most authentic daily life of the local people. Xinjiang is developing its tourism industry and warmly welcomes visitors from around the world. With its picturesque natural landscapes, charming local customs, and abundant tourism resources, Xinjiang holds tremendous potential waiting to be explored.

We observe that in recent times, although the US and the West continue to hype the Xinjiang issue, the intensity and frequency have decreased compared to the past few years. This is not to say that they have suddenly developed "good intentions," but rather many people are already aware that the allegations about Xinjiang are baseless. No matter how much they hype something that doesn't exist, it remains the same.

Xinjiang's GDP grew by 6.1 percent year-on-year in the first three quarters of last year. The import and export volume of foreign-invested enterprises reached 1.56 billion yuan, a 28 percent increase. In the first 11 months of 2023, Xinjiang hosted 256 million domestic and international trips, marking a year-on-year increase of 111.73 percent. The total tourism revenue amounted to 285.63 billion yuan, a year-on-year growth of 217.57 percent. This indicates that Xinjiang has not been economically strangled by sanctions from the US and the West. The report from German automaker Volkswagen stating that there is no "forced labor" in Xinjiang factories has become a landmark event. The facts about Xinjiang are the most powerful, and they cannot be obscured or concealed for a long time; the lies will eventually be exposed.

A beautiful, peaceful and prosperous Xinjiang is the shared aspiration of the entire Chinese nation and the well-being of the diverse ethnic groups in Xinjiang. Just as Xinjiang had finally emerged from the shadows of terrorism, and life was returning to normal, there was a wave of foreign attacks targeting Xinjiang. Multinational companies that invest in Xinjiang and contribute to its development are facing siege tactics overseas. First, attackers spread a colossal lie, and then this falsehood is wielded as a weapon in an attempt to intimidate multinational companies engaged in normal activities with Xinjiang. Those who smear and demonize Xinjiang are engaging in actions that have similar effect with terrorist activities, aiming to disrupt Xinjiang's safety, stability, and prosperity, which is destined to be futile.

(Source: Global Times)
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday was set to open a contentious Hindu temple built on the ruins of an ancient mosque in the holy city of Ayodhya. The grand event, which will be attended by thousands, is expected to benefit the Indian leader in the polls just months before a general election.

The inauguration of the temple, which is still under construction, is dedicated to Hinduisms most revered deity Lord Ram. It fulfills a demand made by millions of Hindus for over 100 years and delivers on a crucial campaign pledge from Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party.

Ayodhya, once dotted with tightly packed houses and rundown stalls, has undergone an elaborate makeover in the lead up to the inauguration. Narrow roads have been turned into a four-lane pilgrimage route leading to the temple, tourists are arriving at a new airport and sprawling railway station, and major hotel chains are building new properties.

On Monday morning, the mood in the city was jubilant. Devotees from across the country have arrived to celebrate the opening, with groups of them dancing to religious songs that blare from speakers on roads bedecked with flowers. Huge cut-outs of Lord Ram and billboards of Modi are ubiquitous across Ayodhya, where the borders have been sealed to prevent more people from coming in. Some 20,000 security personnel and more than 10,000 CCTV cameras have been deployed.

Harish Joshi arrived in Ayodhya from Uttarakhand state four days before the ceremony, hopeful that he may be able to get a glimpse of the ceremony. I am here to see history unfolding before our eyes. For centuries, the story of Lord Ram has resonated in the hearts of millions," he said.

The prime minister, alongside several Hindu priests, will attend the consecration ceremony later on Monday, for which a 1.3-meter (4.25-foot) stone sculpture of Lord Ram was installed in the temples inner sanctum. Overall, nearly 7,500 people, including the countrys most elite industrialists, politicians and movie stars, are also expected to attend.

Analysts and critics see Mondays ceremony as the start of the election campaign for Modi, an avowed nationalist and one of Indias most consequential leaders who has sought to transform the country from a secular democracy into a distinctly Hindu state in his nearly 10 years in power.

The temple, located at one of Indias most vexed religious sites, is expected to embolden Modis chances of clinching a record third successive term by drawing on the religious sentiments of Hindus, who make up 80% of Indias population of 1.4 billion.

Built at an estimated cost of $217 million and spread over nearly 3 hectares (7.4 acres), the temple lies atop the debris of a 16th-century mosque. It was razed to the ground in 1992 by Hindu mobs who believed the Babri Mosque was built on temple ruins that marked the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The site has long been an intense religious flashpoint for the two communities, with the demolition of the mosque triggering bloody riots across India that killed 2,000 people, mostly Muslims.

The dispute ended in 2019 when, in a controversial decision, Indias Supreme Court called the mosques destruction an egregious violation of the law, but granted the site to Hindus while giving Muslims a different plot of land.

The fraught history is still an open wound for many Muslims, who see the construction of the temple as a testament to Modis Hindu-first politics.

Officials say the temple, a three-story structure etched out of pink sandstone, will open to the public after the ceremony and they expect 100,000 devotees to visit daily. Builders are still working to finish 46 elaborate doors and intricate wall carvings.

The inauguration has morphed into a massive national event.

Modis government has planned live screenings across the country and even movie theaters in some cities will broadcast the event while offering free popcorn. BJP workers have gone door to door handing out religious flags, while Modi has encouraged people to celebrate by lighting lamps at homes and in local shrines. His government announced a half-day closure on Monday for all its offices, and numerous states have declared it a public holiday. Even the stock and money markets are closed for the day.

But not all are rejoicing. Four key Hindu religious authorities have refused to attend, saying consecrating an unfinished temple goes against Hindu scriptures. Some top leaders from Indias main opposition Congress party are also boycotting the event, with many opposition lawmakers accusing Modi of exploiting the temple for political points.
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A man in Pakistan was sentenced to three years in prison for forcing his wife to have sex without her consent, in a landmark conviction over marital rape.

The man, identified as Javed, was found guilty of sodomising his wife under Section 377 (unnatural offences) of the Pakistan Penal Code. He was sentenced to three years of rigorous imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of Rs30,000 (84.5).

Failure to pay the fine would result in one additional month of imprisonment, the sessions court said.

Pakistan, like many South Asian countries where the conversation around marital rape is limited, does not have a law to explicitly criminalise forced sex in a marriage.

Bahzad Akbar, the lawyer representing the survivor, argued that sodomy fell within the definition of rape and marital rape following an amendment brought under Section 375 penal code in 2021, The News reported.

I am not sure about other provinces but this is certainly the first such conviction over marital rape in Sindh following the amendment, he told the newspaper.

Since their marriage in July 2022, the man has been forcing his wife to perform oral and anal sex despite attempts to stop him, the woman testified.

The woman informed her mother-in-law two months into the marriage, but Javed's mother refused to say anything to his son, the court heard.

The survivor eventually filed a police complaint at the Chakiwara police station in Karachi against her husband in November 2022.

From perusal of evidence brought at the trial by the prosecution, it appears that the victim has fully established commission of sodomy with her by the accused being her husband, observed additional sessions judge Ashraf Hussain Khowaja.

Though the survivor "contradicted some facts relating to the period of her stay with the accused, putting her signature on memo of site inspection at PS, suffering from disease of piles, and her age, which are immaterial facts which would not be fatal to the prosecution case, the judge added.

There were no known prior convictions of marital rape in Pakistan, Mr Akbar said.
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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.
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Thousands have been forced to evacuate after Indonesias Mount Merapi volcano erupted on Sunday, ejecting plumes of gas clouds into the sky and sending streams of lava flowing down its slopes for over a mile.

Merapi unleashed clouds of hot ash and a mixture of rock and lava that travelled up to 2km (1.2 miles), said Agus Budi Santoso, the head of Indonesias Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Centre.

A column of hot clouds blasted 100 metres (109 yards) into the air as ash blanketed several villages, he said, adding that the eruption has not seen any casualties on the densely populated Indonesian island of Java.

Residents living on the slopes have been advised to stay seven kilometres (4.3 miles) away from the craters mouth and be careful of possible threats from the flowing lava.

Merapi is Indonesias most active volcano out of the 120 spread across the country.

This is the latest volcanic eruption in Indonesia since officials raised the alert level to the second-highest in November 2020 in the wake of increasing activity on its sensors.

On Sunday, several other active volcanoes also erupted in the archipelago, forcing authorities to issue evacuation messages to thousands of residents, said Indonesias Center of Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation. It confirmed no casualties were reported.

Another volcano, Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in East Nusa Tenggara province, also spewed hot clouds as high as 700 metres into the sky on Sunday. More than 6,500 people were forced to move to shelters.

In the series of several eruptions over the weekend, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province also erupted  marking its third biggest flare-up this month. However, it did not send lava spewing down its sides. The flare-up forced evacuations of about 500 people living near the area. A similar eruption last month killed 23 climbers and several others were injured.

On Saturday, Mount Semeru in East Java province also erupted and released searing gas clouds and rivers of lava. Another stratovolcano called Mount Ibu  meaning it is conically shaped with relatively steep sides  erupted in North Maluku province, shooting a column of hot ash as high as 1.3km into the air.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity due to its geographical position along the Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped series of seismic fault lines around the Pacific Ocean.
NEW YORK  The world might see its first trillionaire sooner than you think. And that puts a spotlight on today's richest 1%.

In an annual assessment of global inequalities published earlier this week, Oxfam International said the first trillionaire could emerge within the next decade  as the anti-poverty organization pointed to the growing wealth gap that skyrocketed globally during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among the findings, Oxfam highlighted how the personal fortunes of the world's five richest people  Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Bernard Arnault and his family of luxury company LVMH, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Oracle founder Larry Ellison and investment guru Warren Buffett  have more than doubled since 2020.

To measure this jump, Oxfam pulled net worths from Forbes' real-time billionaires list as of March 2020 and the end of November 2023. Such lists fluctuate over time and even within hours  so while Buffett, for example, was the 5th richest person in November, he stood in 7th place per Forbes' Wednesday rankings.

Oxfam timed its report to the gathering of political and business elites in Davos, Switzerland, where the World Economic Forum meets annually. Numerous billionaires and multimillionaires also penned a letter calling on global leaders to fairly tax the super rich like themselves. Musk, Arnault, Bezos, Ellison and Buffett were not among the signatories  although Buffett has famously criticized the wealthy's lower tax rates and previously advocated for policy change in the same vein.

Here's a look at the wealth of these five billionaires spotlighted this week, and where their fortunes stand today.

***

Elon Musk: $226.6 billion

Elon Musk is currently considered the world's richest person, with a net worth of $226.6 billion per Forbes' real-time rankings as of Wednesday. That's down from $245.5 billion as of November 2023.

In addition to being at the helm of Tesla, Musk is CEO of rocket ship company SpaceX. In 2022, he also purchased Twitter, which is now called X, for $44 billion. While he no longer serves as CEO of the social media platform, his still holds broad influence  and has faced ample pushback from issues ranging from content moderation and hate speech to alienating advertisers.

***

Bernard Arnault and family: $175.1 billion

Bernard Arnault and his family currently hold a personal fortune of $175.1 billion per Forbes. That's down from about $191.3 in November 2023.

The French businessman has served as CEO of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury group, since becoming the majority shareholder in 1989. He is also president of the board for Groupe Arnault S.E., which is his family's holding company and primarily an investment firm.

***

Jeff Bezos: $173.6 billion

Jeff Bezos' net worth stood at $173.6 billion Wednesday per Forbes. That's up from $167.4 billion in November 2023.

Back in 1994, Bezos founded Amazon out of a Seattle garage  and his wealth skyrocketed as the company grew into the e-commerce giant it is today. He stepped down as CEO in early 2021, but still has broad influence over Amazon as executive chair and the company's biggest shareholder.

***

Larry Ellison: $134.9 billion

Larry Ellison currently has a personal fortune of $134.9 billion, according to Forbes, down from $145.5 in November 2023.

Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation, a software and database management giant, in 1977 and served as CEO until 2014. He is now chief technology officer and chairman of the board. Ellison, who also had a stint on Tesla's board of directors from 2018 to 2022, has ranked high in billionaire lists for several years now.

***

Warren Buffett: $119.5 billion

At the time Oxfam pulled Forbes figures for its inequality report, Warren Buffett was the world's fifth richest person with a net worth of $119.2 billion. While his personal fortune has stayed relatively stable since ($119.5 billion as of Wednesday), Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates have surpassed him in Forbes' rankings with current net worths of $129.5 billion and $120.1 billion, respectively.

Over the years, Buffett has gained a reputation for his investment success and aggressive business tactics. He runs Berkshire Hathaway, a holding conglomerate that owns dozens of companies across sectors like insurance, manufacturing, utilities, transportation and retail.

___

Richest women in America Richest women in America #50. Marian Ilitch #49. Gail Miller #48. Mary Alice Dorrance Malone #47. Lynsi Snyder #46. Jean (Gigi) Pritzker #45. Jane Lauder #44. Gwendolyn Sontheim Meyer #43. Johnelle Hunt #42. Margot Birmingham Perot #41. Gayle Benson #39. Helen Johnson-Leipold #39. Winifred J. Marquart #38. Thai Lee #37. Janice McNair #36. Dagmar Dolby and family #35. Denise York and family #34. Lynda Resnick #33. Elizabeth Johnson #31. Katharine Rayner #31. Margaretta Taylor #30. Karen Pritzker #29. Melinda French Gates #28. Annette Lerner and family #27. Trudy Cathy White #25. Dannine Avara #25. Milane Frantz #24. Randa Duncan Williams #23. Edythe Broad and family #22. Pauline MacMillan Keinath #21. Ronda Stryker #20. Judy Faulkner #19. Tamara Gustavson #18. Elisabeth DeLuca and family #17. Blair Parry-Okeden #16. Nancy Walton Laurie #15. Ann Walton Kroenke #11. Victoria Mars #11. Valerie Mars #11. Marijke Mars #11. Pamela Mars #10. Judy Love and family #9. Christy Walton #8. Laurene Powell Jobs and family #7. Diane Hendricks #6. Abigail Johnson #5. MacKenzie Scott #4. Miriam Adelson and family #3. Jacqueline Mars #2. Julia Koch and family #1. Alice Walton
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The Indian government is planning to fence India's border with Myanmar and end the free movement regime (FMR) agreement between the two countries amid civil war in the neighbouring country.

India's federal home minister Amit Shah made the announcement to fortify the 1,000-mile border just days after an ethnic rebel group in Rakhine state captured a town bordering India.

I want to tell my friends in Assam that the Narendra Modi government has decided to fence Indias open border along with Myanmar just like we have fenced the countrys border along with Bangladesh, Mr Shah said.

He added that the government is also reconsidering Indias FMR agreement with Myanmar and will soon end the free movement into India.

Myanmar shares its largely unfenced border in the northeast with India's Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh states. The FMR  a mutual agreement between the two nations  allows people living along the border to travel up to 10 miles into the other country without a visa.

Since its implementation in 2018, the agreement has allowed people escaping the violence in Myanmar to seek refuge in India's notheastern states.

Nearly 30,000 people from Myanmar's Chin state have taken shelter in Mizoram since the 2021 February coup, which saw the junta take over Myanmar after wresting power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi.

At least 416 Myanmar soldiers have also crossed into India since a fresh bout of violence erupted after ethnic minority forces the Three Brotherhood Alliance launched a coordinated offensive against the military in late October.

Indian authorities have been sending back Myanmar troops within days of them crossing over, Reuters reported.

Mr Shah last year blamed the domestic unrest in Myanmar for the ongoing ethnic conflict between minority Kuki and majority Meitei communities in Manipur. At least 180 people have been killed since the conflict broke out in May 2023.

He told the Indian parliament in August that political instability in Myanmar had prompted thousands of refugees to flee into Manipur across a porous border.

The influx from Myanmar, Mr Shah said, created a feeling of insecurity among the Meiteis. Meanwhile, the rebel alliance in Myanmar has agreed to a China-brokered ceasefire with the ruling military, which would be put in place in the northern part of the country.
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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.
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When college student Chloe Grace took to TikTok to share her recent shopping experience at Sephora, she inadvertently sparked a viral phenomenon known as Sephora Kids. It all began just days after the Christmas holiday, when she asked her thousands of followers if theyve also noticed their local Sephora stores being overrun with tween girls.

Has anyone else noticed that every time you go into Sephora now its just all little girls? she began the video, which has been viewed more than three million times.

Chloe wasnt the only Gen Z shopper to point out this recent uptick in 10-to-12-year-old girls shopping at major American beauty supply chains like Sephora and Ulta. TikTok user Megan Lacey went viral when she detailed her recent Sephora encounter with a few tween girls taking up every single section in the store. Just days later, TikTok user Dane recalled a group of three young girls were rude to him at a Sephora, while Kiley Ryan claimed young shoppers were being disrespectful to Sephora customers and staff.

Tween girls are invading Sephora, and some adult shoppers (and employees) are not happy about it.

Picture this, youre the tender age of 11 and you just received a boatload of cash from your parents for the holidays. Much like the female influencers on your TikTok For You Page (in this scenario, its 2024), you decide to spend it all on a Sephora haul - buying up products that your favourite content creators, like Alix Earle or Meredith Duxbury, have used in their Get Ready With Me videos.

Weve all been there before, feeling overwhelmed with excitement to finally purchase yourself the items on your Christmas wish list that your parents had glossed over. Only for some of us, our go-to stores for post-holiday doorbusters were the many tween-focused retailers of years past, such as Delias, Claires, or Justice (RIP, Limited Too).

The phenomenon that is Sephora Kids has highlighted a pivotal change in tween culture, where retail stores that cater to young girls are out and pretending to be an adult is in. However, it seems that millennials and Gen Z-ers arent just simply annoyed by the presence of unaccompanied children running wild in the hallowed black and white halls of Sephora. Not only are young girls allegedly being rude to customers and staff and making skincare smoothies with display products (more on that later), but its the beauty and skincare products theyre purchasing that have really disturbed the internet.

According to eyewitness accounts on TikTok, the most popular brands among Generation Alpha - the generation of people born between 2010 and 2024 - are Drunk Elephant, Glow Recipe, Summer Fridays, and Sol De Janeiro. But its not just the expensive brands theyre buying into - some of which price their products anywhere between the high 20s to $50 - but the active, oftentimes anti-ageing and harmful ingredients within them.

Elena Duque is a licensed esthetician and beauty expert with more than 153,000 followers on TikTok. As a mother of two girls, aged eight and 11, shes well aware of the Sephora Kids craze taking over the retail chain. But when it comes to young girls whove barely developed pores in their skin, she suggests that using serums with ingredients like retinol - which helps reduce wrinkles and other effects of skin ageing - may have harmful effects in the long run.

Retinol is something that even I, as a 43-year-old woman, have had whats called the retinol uglies, she told The Independent. It is such an ingredient that is formulated for mature skin. It helps with cellular turnover and when children are little, they dont need that. When theyre tweens, theyre going through all those hormonal changes. So, putting something like retinol or other actives like glycolic - basically any acid - its just a no-no and theyre really doing damage to the skin barrier.

Perhaps these young girls are drawn to brands like Drunk Elephant and Glow Recipe, with its colourful packaging and push-down pumps, because theyre inadvertently marketing towards a younger demographic. According to Namhee Han - a beauty marketing professional based in California and the founder of Be-Tween, a range of skincare products specifically designed for tweens - the beauty industry has lately been focused on an experiential play element, in which packaging is more enjoyable and consumers can play with products. Now, Sephora Kids are making skincare smoothies out of display items and free testers, in which they mix several skincare products like serums, oils, and moisturisers and apply the mixture to their skin all at once. Even Drunk Elephant has encouraged its customers to make these concoctions with their products, with smoothie recipes designed based on your skincare needs. Its like when 90s kids would make witches potions in their backyard using sticks and rainwater, but this time its with $45 moisturisers.

Packaging matters, 100 per cent, said Duque. They dont really care about their skin so much as they want this product because its the cool thing. Its what everyones doing. Its what everyones using.

Surprisingly, nowhere in their advertising or social media do brands like Drunk Elephant or Summer Fridays have tweens acting as brand ambassadors or models. Thats because, according to Shiri Feldman, a corporate beauty professional and freelance product marketing consultant, brands no longer have control over who uses their products. Rather, that power is in the hands of the influencers they follow.

Everyone is following a trend and just wanting the same products that are marketed by the top creators, she told The Independent. The brand can push out as much content as they want and can try to target the consumer group that they want, but at the same time, a lot of it is in the hands of these creators.

Its no secret that influencer culture has taken over the world, which is why many critics of the Sephora Kids phenomenon are singling out the internets top content creators to blame for tween girls increased interest in consumerism. For 20-something female influencers like Alix Earle, who quickly rose to TikTok fame for her candid Get Ready With Me videos, their content caters to women of the same college-aged group and demographic. Given that the minimum age requirement for a TikTok user is 13 years old, per the platform guidelines, its likely that influencers may be unaware of the young audience theyre actually influencing.

I think whats different about how we grew up and how our kids are growing up is that when we were growing up, we saw celebrities and they were movie stars. There was this us and them mentality, said Han. Now when kids see influencers, the whole premise is that influencers are people like us.

A 2022 report from Common Sense Media found that overall screen use among teenagers and tweens increased by 17 per cent from 2019 to 2021 - largely due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey also noted a particular increase in social media use among children ages eight to 12, despite many platforms like TikTok requiring users to be at least 13 years old.

Of course, tweens buying up some of the most commonly reviewed beauty products online led many critics to question the involvement of parents - or lack of involvement, perhaps - in monitoring their childrens social media usage and spending habits. Where are these girls getting this money? asked TikTok user Dane in his video, while someone else commented under Chloes viral post: I didnt step into Sephora until I was old enough to afford it.

For Han, who is also a mother to two tween children, there is some validity in acknowledging that parental influence has played a role in the Sephora Kids craze; its not tweens just wanting to emulate the creators on their TikTok For You Page, but rather their own parents social media tendencies and skincare habits. These kids are born from millennial moms, millennial parents. Their kids exposure to beauty has been different both in the form of social media and influencer content, Han said. These kids are Generation Alpha, and as a millennial parent myself, I know that the millennial generation has been a lot savvier when it comes to skincare. Were the generation where Huggies and Pampers werent good enough.

It seems that for every young person, much of their childhood is spent wishing they were older - anxiously waiting for the day you get your drivers license or sneaking into your mothers bathroom and trying on her makeup - perhaps because they yearn for some semblance of independence. But whats particularly jarring is that a so-called let kids be kids mentality has diminished in the public sphere, and many stores that were particularly catered towards this in-between space have since filed for bankruptcy or closed permanently.

Kids have always wanted to grow up faster. People tend to forget what we were like at that age. Theres a part of you that wants to go shop in older stores because thats where the older kids are shopping, Han said.

Beauty experts agreed that it will be interesting to see where the industry goes from here, especially now that a much younger market has been tapped. For Duque, she wondered whether brands like Drunk Elephant or Glow Recipe will establish lines within their company for these specific skin types, while Feldman suggested only brands that specifically partner with influencers or celebrities will be the ones to thrive amidst an overly-saturated industry. Nevertheless, they believe that the more these younger girls express an interest in beauty, the more responsible these brands must be in educating their consumers about the products theyre using.

Maybe the real reason that young girls aged 10 to 12 have begun infiltrating stores like Sephora and Ulta is because they have nowhere else to go. Theyre making skincare smoothies with free testers and makeup displays because they crave something interactive and fun. If anything, the most ironic revelation to come out of the Sephora Kids phenomenon is that Gen Z has already begun feeding into the natural cycle of life that is criticising those younger than them (and much earlier than Gen Z mightve expected, too).

Theres no arguing that disrespecting retail staff, making messes of display items, or being rude to fellow Sephora customers is wrong. But when it comes to experimenting with beauty and skincare, well, there are worse things in life to be experimented with.

There is something positive about whats happening right now, said Han. Nobodys loving tween girls running around the store and snatching things out of other peoples hands, but as much as wed like to think that we were perfect at that age, we werent. Grace and kindness really go a long way. If we took a moment to really think about what we were like at this age, we werent quite sure of ourselves either. They need space to figure themselves out and gain that confidence.

The Independent has contacted Sephora, Drunk Elephant, Glow Recipe, Summer Fridays, and Sol De Janeiro for comment.
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The Stanley cup craze has reached new heights after a woman was arrested for allegedly stealing 65 stainless steel water bottles from a store in California.

According to the Roseville Police Department, a 23-year-old woman was arrested for theft outside Sacramento when police discovered 65 Stanley products in her car worth nearly $2,500. Employees at a retail store on Stanford Ranch Road alerted police after they saw a woman take a shopping cart full of Stanley water bottles without paying for them, per the police departments Facebook post.

The suspect refused to stop for staff and stuffed her car with the stolen merchandise, the post read. An officer spotted the suspect vehicle as it entered Highway 65 from Galleria Blvd and initiated a traffic stop.

While Stanley Quenchers are all the rage, we strongly advise against turning to crime to fulfill your hydration habits, the Roseville Police Department added. Photos shared by police showed the womans car trunk and passenger seat filled with a variety of Stanley cups.

In recent months, the reusable water bottle company has become all the rage as people scramble to get their hands on the drinkware. While the brand Stanley 1913 has been active for more than a century, it has gained new popularity for the 40-ounce Quencher cup, priced at $45 (35.40). Not only is the Stanley cup known to keep drinks cool for 48 hours, but much of its cult-like following is due to its variety of colours and limited-edition items.

In January, shoppers were seen rushing towards a display of limited-edition Stanley cups in Target. The tumblers were a part of the brands Galentines collection. I love Stanley, but I will not do this for a cup, one person commented on the clip, while another said: All for a Stanley?

Police later issued a warning that scammers are selling counterfeit Stanley products, with fakes being targeted to customers for as low as $19.

Meanwhile, one woman claimed her daughter was being bullied for owning a knockoff Stanley cup. In a viral TikTok video, mother Dayna Motycka revealed that she had bought her daughter an off-brand cup from Walmart worth $9.98 (7.85). However, when her daughter returned home from school, she said she was made fun of for owning the cup.

The mother explained that many of her daughters classmates had been given Stanley cups for Christmas and went out of their way to let her know that this is not a real Stanley, that this is fake and its not as cool.

Can we afford to buy her a Stanley? Yes. Did I think that she needed one? No, Motycka explained. Apparently Ive been proven wrong by the children in our school that are making fun of her for not having a real, name-brand Stanley.

Motycka - who already had her own Stanley cup at the time - promptly spent $35 (27.52) to buy her daughter a real 30-ounce white Stanley cup. She explained: If youre a parent and you can do something to keep your child from getting made fun of, to help fit in, youre gonna do it.
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A former Los Angeles-area gang leader jailed in Las Vegas in the 1996 killing of hip-hop music icon Tupac Shakur has hired a private attorney to represent him ahead of his murder trial scheduled this summer.

Duane Keffe D Davis dismissed court-appointed lawyers and hired veteran criminal defense attorney Carl Arnold, according to a court filing posted Thursday.

Robert Arroyo, one of Davis' former lawyers from the Clark County special public defender's office, said Monday that he and co-counsel Charles Cano wished Davis well and referred questions to Arnold, who didn't immediately respond to messages.

Arnold has served during public fatality reviews as representative of relatives of people killed by police. He has also been sanctioned twice by the Nevada State Bar during 20 years of practice.

One, in 2018, was for failing to properly file documents in a defendants appeal to the state Supreme Court. The other, in 2021, was for failing to represent a defendant in Las Vegas Justice Court. Each time, Arnold received a written reprimand and was fined $1,500.

Davis, 60, and originally from Compton, California, is the only person still alive who was in the car from which shots were fired in the September 1996 shooting that killed Shakur and wounded rap mogul Marion Suge Knight. Knight is serving 28 years in a California prison for an unrelated fatal shooting in the Los Angeles area in 2015.

Davis has for many years described his role in Shakurs killing, although his defense attorneys have argued his accounts accentuated violence to attract viewers and make money.

Prosecutors say Davis incriminated himself as shot-caller in Shakur's slaying during accounts to a joint federal and Los Angeles Police Department task force in 2008; to Las Vegas police in 2009; in an interview for a BET documentary in 2017; in his own tell-all book in 2019; and in more recent interviews.

Davis was indicted by a grand jury in Las Vegas and arrested in September outside his home in suburban Henderson and has pleaded not guilty. He remains jailed on $750,000 bail ahead of a Feb. 20 status check in the case.

If he posts bail, Davis will be on house arrest with strict electronic monitoring. It was not immediately clear if changing lawyers will delay his current trial date, June 3.

Davis maintains he was given immunity from prosecution in 2008 by an FBI and Los Angeles police task force investigating the killings of Shakur in Las Vegas and rival rapper Christopher Wallace, known as The Notorious B.I.G. or Biggie Smalls, six months later in Los Angeles.

Arroyo and Cano argued that police and prosecutors could have arrested Davis 15 years ago but didnt, that he is in poor health after battling cancer, which is in remission, and that he would not flee to avoid trial.

His former lawyers also noted that prosecutors do not have the gun and the car involved in the Shakur shooting, and they downplayed the credibility of former gang members as witnesses against Davis.
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Watch a view of a Manhattan court as Donald Trumps defamation trial was due to continue on Monday (22 January).

Mr Trump was due back in court in New York today for the resumption of his E Jean Carroll defamation trial.

While he was expected to testify, proceedings were called to a halt over concerns about exposure to Covid-19 in both the jury and the defence team.

It came just hours before voting was due to commence in the New Hampshire primary in which Mr Trump is battling Nikki Haley for the Republican presidential nomination.

Roberta Kaplan, a lawyer for Ms Carroll, has meanwhile said that Mr Trumps notorious Access Hollywood tape from 2005 will not be put before the jury considering how much additional compensation the defendant must pay after being found liable last year for sexually assaulting her client.

The jury will weigh whether Mr Trump owes further damages to the retired magazine columnist after a previous trial ended with her being awarded $5m when it was ruled he had abused her in a department store dressing room in 1996.
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A simple blood test can detect Alzheimers up to 15 years before symptoms emerge, with experts claiming it could revolutionise early diagnosis of the disease.

Swedish trials found the test to be as accurate at detecting the signs of Alzheimers as painful lumbar punctures, and better than a range of other tests currently being worked on.

Experts say it could pave the way for a national screening programme for the over-50s, and that current treatments could work better with the cases picked up earlier.

The test works by measuring levels of a protein called p-tau217 in the blood that indicate biological changes taking place in the brain during Alzheimers disease.

It could identify patients as likely, intermediate or unlikely to have Alzheimers disease and potentially rule out the need for further, more invasive investigations.

One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime, according to the Alzheimers Society (New England Journal of Medicine 2024)

Prof David Curtis, honorary professor, UCL Genetics Institute, University College London, said: Everybody over 50 could be routinely screened every few years, in much the same way as they are now screened for high cholesterol.

It is possible that currently available treatments for Alzheimers disease would work better in those diagnosed early in this way. However, I think the real hope is that better treatments can also be developed.

The combination of a simple screening test with an effective treatment for Alzheimers disease would have a dramatic impact for individuals and for society.

The test is made by company ALZpath and is already commercially available.

In the trial of 786 people  conducted by Dr Nicholas Ashton at the University of Gothenburg, and colleagues, and published in the Jama Neurology journal  the researchers were able to use it to categorise a patients likelihood of having Alzheimers.

The higher the levels of p-tau217 in the blood, the more likely or advanced the disease was.

A University College London-led study has claimed the test could detect the first signs of the disease up to 15 years before symptoms start showing.

Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimers Research UK, said the study adds to a growing body of evidence that this particular test has huge potential to revolutionise diagnosis for people with suspected Alzheimers.

Currently, the only way to prove that someone has a build-up of the proteins in the brain is to have a lumbar puncture, which involves a needle being inserted into the lower back, or a scan available in only about one in 20 NHS memory clinics.

Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research and innovation at the Alzheimers Society, said: This study is a hugely welcome step in the right direction as it shows that blood tests can be just as accurate as more invasive and expensive tests at predicting if someone has features of Alzheimers disease in their brain.

Furthermore, it suggests results from these tests could be clear enough to not require further follow-up investigations for some people living with Alzheimers disease, which could speed up the diagnosis pathway significantly in future.

However, we still need to see more research across different communities to understand how effective these blood tests are across everyone who lives with Alzheimers disease.

One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime, according to the Alzheimers Society, which estimates around 900,000 people are living with the disease. The charity believes this will rise to 1.6 million people by 2040.
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The worlds first routine malaria vaccination programme is being rolled out with help from scientists in the UK.

The RTS,S vaccine, also known as Mosquirix, was developed by British drug maker GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in collaboration with the Path Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI), an organisation tasked with accelerating the development of malaria vaccines.

It was recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2021 for widespread use for children in Africa.

Researchers at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicines (LSHTM) The Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia (MRCG), have been working alongside local communities and volunteers in Africa for almost three decades to research, develop and deploy the jab.

It will be rolled out for routine use starting Monday January 22 as part of the childhood vaccination programme in Africa, starting with Cameroon.

Professor Umberto DAlessandro, director MRCG at LSHTM said: Making the RTS,S vaccine available as a routine vaccination is only possible thanks to decades of work by researchers in Africa working with international partners, with clinical trials at MRCG at LSHTM starting back in 1997.

The support of volunteers and communities both in The Gambia and the region has been vital in showing that RTS,S, the worlds first malaria vaccine, was safe and could save lives.

Globally in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries, according to WHO figures.

In RTS,S we now have a malaria vaccine that, starting with Cameroon, can be rolled out across malaria-prone regions worldwide and help to revive malaria control efforts that had recently stalled Professor Umberto DAlessandro

And children under five accounted for about 80% of all malaria deaths in the African region.

WHO has recommended a schedule of four doses in children from around five months of age, with a fifth dose considered after one year in areas of high risk.

RTS,S works by inducing an immune response to an antigen found on the surface of the Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite injected by female Anopheles mosquitoes into the bloodstream.

Clinical trials have shown that vaccinating with RTS,S before the rainy season and using anti-malarial drugs can cut children deaths by nearly two thirds.

Prof DAlessandro said: Crucially, an LSHTM coordinated five-year trial in Burkina Faso and Mali, which began in 2017, showed that vaccinating with RTS,S before the rainy season, alongside the use of antimalarial drugs, reduced cases of severe malaria in children and deaths by nearly two thirds.

In RTS,S we now have a malaria vaccine that, starting with Cameroon, can be rolled out across malaria-prone regions worldwide and help to revive malaria control efforts that had recently stalled.

Meanwhile a second vaccine, R21, which was developed by Oxford University, was prequalified by WHO last year, a crucial step in making the vaccine eligible for global use.
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A Japanese automaker that cheated on safety tests for decades said Monday it doesn't expect to resume shipping cars any time soon.

The Japanese government ordered a subsidiary of Toyota to halt production of its entire lineup after reports of faked safety test results emerged last year.

The Daihatsu Motor Co. skipped mandatory safety tests by copying data from testing on one side of cars to the other, and used timers to ensure airbags went off in tests, a review found.

No major accidents have been reported in connection with the cheating, but the news has raised serious questions about oversight at Daihatsu, as well as its corporate parent Toyota.

Japanese regulators approved five of the company's models on Friday after more testing, but company leadership said factories will remain shuttered as it waits on suppliers.

We face a very tough road ahead in winning back customer trust about safety and security, corporate manager Keita Ide said Monday, stressing that customers felt betrayed. He said the company is working on a plan to prevent cheating in the future.

Daihatsu is known for kei cars, or light automobiles, including the popular Daihatsu Tanto kei, or small, car. It also produces the Toyota Raize hybrid sport-utility vehicle, also sold as the Daihatsu Rocky.

An investigation including third-party experts found 174 cases of faked tests affecting dozens of models, including cars sold under the Toyota Motor Corp. nameplate. The review found that cheating went back 30 years.

The scandal began after a whistleblower came forward in April last year. Daihatsu has apologized and promised sweeping reforms of its corporate culture. Daihatsu President Soichiro Okudaira has attributed the cheating to pressure on workers to meet tight deadlines.

Daihatsu said there may be recalls, although none have been announced yet. Japanese media reports said the recalls are likely to total more than 300,000 vehicles.

The Toyota group has been rocked by similar scandals before, ensnaring truckmaker Hino and Toyota Industries Corp., which makes engines, machinery and vehicles. That's prompted some questions about the leadership of Chairman Akio Toyoda, the former chief executive and grandson of Toyotas founder.

The standards of governance at the Toyota group are being questioned, nationally circulated Sankei newspaper said in an editorial. Getting to the bottom of this is needed, as consumer trust in the overall Toyota brand is at risk.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on X https://twitter.com/yurikageyama
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Tommy Robinson has denied a criminal offence after he allegedly refused to leave a march against antisemitism.

The far-right figure, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon, appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday accused of breaching a police dispersal order.

The 40-year-old wore a blue shirt and a grey waistcoat. He spoke only to confirm his identity and denied breaching a section 35 direction excluding him from an area.

District Judge Briony Clarke set a trial date for 22 April at City of London Magistrates Court.

Under his bail conditions, he is not allowed to enter London within the M25. He is also banned from organising or attending any protests.

Alistair Williamson KC, defending, made an application to prevent the publication of Mr Robinsons address - telling the court his client had been subject to 12 police visits where he was warned of threats to his life, known as Osman warnings. The judge refused the application after hearing representations from the media.

The former English Defence League founder, from Bedfordshire, was arrested and pepper sprayed by police near the Royal Courts of Justice at the march in central London last November.

Tommy Robinson, 40, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon (PA)

Organisers had said he would not be welcome at the event, which saw tens thousands of demonstrators flock to the capital, but Robinson said he was attending as a journalist.

The Metropolitan Police later announced he had been charged failing to comply with a section 35 direction excluding a person from an area.

In a statement following the incident last year, the Metropolitan Police said: The arrested man resisted as officers attempted to put him in handcuffs. He was warned repeatedly before PAVA spray was used.

Following its use, officers gained control of him and handcuffs were applied.

In an earlier statement, the force said organisers had been clear about their concerns that the mans attendance, and that of those who were likely to accompany him, would cause fear for other participants.

Mr Robinson said he attended the march as a journalist and denied causing alarm or distress to others.
The Tri County FBLA officers had a productive first semester. During the last couple of months, Tri County has contributed to its community by helping with Adopt-A-Highway, and Adopt-A-Family. On Oct. 30, 2023, the Tri County FBLA chapter helped pick up trash off of Highway 103, covering five miles.

The Tri County Officers attended the 2023 National Fall Leadership Conference in Dallas, Texas from Nov. 16-18. The officers got to travel and network with other FBLA members from Nebraska. While there, the officers had the opportunity to attend multiple sessions to learn more about networking skills, new ideas for their chapters, and leadership skills. Networking is a vital skill to have, with every person you meet you learn something new. On the way back to Nebraska, the officers visited the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial and learned about the history of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
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Fashion giant H&M has pulled a controversial advert for school uniforms after being accused of sexualising young children with a highly inappropriate caption.

The ad featured an image of two girls of primary school age in pinafore dresses with the slogan: Make those heads turn in H&Ms Back to School fashion.

The retailer has now withdrawn the ad and apologised.

In an uproar of backlash on social media, users expressed their concern about the ad, with one describing it as H&M sexualising children and another labelling it inappropriate.

(Supplied)

One wrote: What the hell is going on? This is sickening, sexualising kids.

Another user posted on X: This is revolting H&M, take down the ad & investigate how the ad got approval as a third wrote: Its disheartening to hear about the H&M Australia Back to School ad causing outrage among parents.

The caption used in the ad seems highly inappropriate and insensitive. Brands should prioritize responsible advertising, especially when it involves children.

I get why parents are upset about that H&M ad, another user wrote. Its pretty tone-deaf to use the phrase Make those heads turn with images of young girls in school uniforms. It feels like they missed the mark on whats appropriate for a back to school campaign.

H&M has withdrawn the ad and apologised after a flurry of complaints (Getty Images)

Responding to the backlash, H&M apologised and said the advert had been taken down.

We are deeply sorry for the offence this has caused and will look into how we present campaigns going forward.

Mumsnet founder and chief executive Justine Roberts said: Mumsnet users have long been concerned about a sexualised culture creeping into the lives of children  which is why we launched our Let Girls Be Girls campaign in 2010.

Its disappointing to see that, 14 years later, retailers are still creating inappropriate adverts that prematurely sexualise young girls.

While were pleased that H&M have accepted their mistake and removed the advert, it really should never have been created in the first place.

Our users would love to be reassured that theyre taking steps to ensure everyone at H&M is crystal clear about the issue so it doesnt happen again.
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.
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Queen Camilla has said the King is "fine" as he prepares to undergo surgery this week for an enlarged prostate.

The royal family was hit by an unprecedented double health scare last week when Buckingham Palace announced the monarch's "benign" condition shortly after it emerged the Princess of Wales was in hospital after successful abdominal surgery.

The King, who has cancelled engagements and been ordered to rest, received his diagnosis last Wednesday, having had a check-up after experiencing symptoms.

On a visit to a family-run jewellery shop in Swindon on Monday, Camilla told a member of the public that the King is fine ahead of the corrective procedure this week.

It comes as Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, announced on Sunday that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer - her second bout of the disease in a year following her treatment for breast cancer last summer.

Ahead of the Kings admission to hospital this week, here is all we know about the planned surgery:

File photo: King Charles III, pictured here with Queen Camilla attending a Christmas day service in Norfolk, will attend hospital next week (AP)

Diagnosis

On Wednesday 17 January, Buckingham Palace announced that the King would get treatment for an enlarged prostate.

In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate, a statement said. His Majestys condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure. The Kings public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation.

The King was reportedly keen to share details of his diagnosis to encourage other men who might be experiencing similar symptoms to get themselves checked.

Benign prostate enlargement (BPE) is the medical term to describe an enlarged prostate, a condition that can affect how you urinate.

BPE is common in men aged over 50. Its not a cancer and its not usually a serious threat to health but many men worry that having an enlarged prostate means they have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. This is not the case.

Treatment

Buckingham Palace has not said where or when the King will have his surgery, but members of the royal family usually receive their care at The London Clinic, which is where Kate is recuperating for up to two weeks after abdominal surgery last week.

It was the brainchild of a group of Harley Street doctors, who set out to plan a new nursing home using the highest medical standards of the day, and its website says it was founded on the principles of providing excellence in one place.

Around 155 different conditions are treated at the hospital, which also operates as a charity, reinvesting in research, education and innovation.

File photo: Policewomen stand guard outside The London Clinic where Kate Princess of Wales (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Since the 1980s, a number of facilities at the site have been officially launched by members of the royal family.

King Charles, as the then-Prince of Wales, opened the physiotherapy department in 1989, while Princess Margaret launched the MRI unit in 1991 and the late Queen unveiled a new cancer unit in 2010.

Past patients include the late Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip, Princess Margaret and former US president John F Kennedy. Former prime minister and current foreign secretary, Lord David Cameron, was born at the central London hospital, and actress Elizabeth Taylor was also treated at the clinic after falling on a film set in the 1960s. Kate received her abdominal surgery at the hospital.

File photo: Kate receives flowers (PA)

Looking forward to getting back to work

The day after the King revealed his diagnosis, Camilla gave an update on his health, saying the monarch was well and looking forward to resuming his normal duties.

Camilla was on a solo visit to Aberdeen Art Gallery to open its new Safe Space, an initiative to provide help and guidance to people if they suspect someone is living with domestic abuse.

Asked about the King by the Lord Provost, she replied: Hes fine, thank you very much. Looking forward to getting back to work.

The King was at his private home Birkhall in Aberdeenshire, preparing for his surgery.
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At least 1,300 child refugees who arrived in the UK alone have been wrongly identified as adults, with nearly 500 placed in detention centres or in unsupervised adult accommodation, according to a report published on Monday.

Fourteen young people spent up to seven months in adult prisons after the Home Office wrongly assessed their ages between January 2022 and June 2023, the charities found.

Such treatment is linked to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and an increased likelihood of running away from care, leading many young people into homelessness and destitution. Children as young as 14 were among those judged to be adults.

The findings emerged from freedom of information requests made by the Refugee Council, Helen Bamber Foundation and Humans for Rights Network (HRN). The charities also warned that the Illegal Migration Act could lead to hundreds of children being wrongly removed from the UK and sent to Rwanda, or other countries, without having been assessed by childcare professionals.

Findings by the charities show 14 young people spent up to seven months in adult prisons after being wrongly assessed by the Home Office (PA Wire)

Maddie Harris, director of Humans for Rights Network, told The Independent: These children are terrified and continue to be profoundly affected by the experience of wrongful criminalisation. Its a direct result of flawed Home Office decision-making at the point of arrival and a profoundly harmful policy of criminalising asylum seekers for the act of arrival in the UK.

The findings in todays report also show that:

485 children referred to local authorities in England between January 2023 and June 2023 were found to be under 18 and had to be immediately removed from unsafe facilities.

832 safeguarding concerns were recorded by Humans for Rights Network in the same period, with 406 subsequently accepted as children by local authorities.

185 children were taken into local authority care from an adult setting by the Refugee Councils Age Dispute Project.

Charities fear these figures may be far higher, with many more children who have arrived since June 2023 not receiving the right level of care and protection from local authorities, including access to education, healthcare and legal representation.

In the year to June 2023 there were 5,186 asylum applications for unaccompanied children arriving in the UK, according to government statistics.

Children as young as 14 are being exposed to harm and abuse as a result of inaccurate age assessments by the Home Office, charities claim (PA Wire)

Jamal*, a 16-year-old boy from Afghanistan, was age-assessed as 25 on arrival in the UK after a brief visual assessment. I felt sad and shocked  Im 16 years old, he said. Ive been in the hotel [for] about two months. I live alone here, with adults. I dont have money, Im worried about the future and I dont feel good at all.

Helen, also 16, from Eritrea, had a similar experience on arrival in Dover. She said: When I said my age they said to me You are lying... They took us to a private room and a lady asked me some different questions. She said OK, I can guess your age is 22. She said: Because you arrive by boat, you must know what you are doing, therefore you are over 18. She has now had her age accepted and has been moved to safe local authority accommodation.

The report notes that in many instances, children are not provided with an interpreter at interview, are laughed at or their physical appearance is mocked, and ID cards confirming their age, including the Afghan Taskira, are not accepted.

On 10 January the government brought into force the use of X-Rays and MRI scans to assess the age of children seeking asylum, despite medical experts warning the tests are unreliable and unethical. The tests include X-Rays of teeth and wrists, as well as scans of knees and collarbones.

Enver Solomon, chief executive officer of the Refugee Council, described the situation as an alarming child protection failure and called on the government to take urgent action. Hidden from view, very vulnerable child refugees are being exposed to harm and abuse as a result of inaccurate Home Office decision making. Each case is a child who is being put at risk and whose welfare is being forgotten.

Kamena Dorling, director of policy at the Helen Bamber Foundation, said: These new figures show that there continues to be something fundamentally wrong with Home Office decision-making at the border, and hundreds of children are suffering as a result.

Recent legislation introduced by the government, including plans to x-ray children, will do nothing to solve this long-standing problem  it will simply cause further harm to those seeking protection in the UK. What we need is urgent change to the flawed policy of officials assessing age on sight."

The report calls on the Home Office to only dispute a childs claimed age in exceptional circumstances, and to routinely notify local authorities whenever a potential child has been determined by them to be an adult. It also calls for full statistics on age disputes to be published, showing the number of children who are taken into care from the adult asylum system. The government currently refuses to disclose this data.

A Home Office spokesperson said: Age assessments can be challenging and there is no single method which can determine a persons age with precision. Many individuals arriving in the UK who claim to be children often dont have clear evidence like an original passport or identity document to back this up.

They added: We are strengthening our age assessment process, including establishing the National Age Assessment Board and specifying scientific methods of age assessments. Measures under the Illegal Migration Act will ensure the swift removal of individuals who have been assessed as adults and who have no right to remain in the UK.
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An 84-year-old man has died during Storm Isha after the car he was a passenger in crashed into a fallen tree, Police Scotland have said.

The force said the pensioner was the front-seat passenger and was declared dead at the scene. The other occupants of the Hyundai were not injured.

The car was travelling on the A905 Beancross Road in Grangemouth, Falkirk, when it struck a fallen tree at around 11.45pm during an amber weather warning as Storm Isha hit the UK.

A tree branch fallen on Notting Hill road in south Belfast during Storm Isha (Liam McBurney/PA) (PA Wire)

Follow live updates on the weather across the UK by clicking here

The road was closed while investigations were carried out and reopened at around 6am on Monday.

Road policing inspector Andrew Thomson said: Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died, and all those involved in the collision. We continue to offer them support as our inquiries progress.

Id be keen to speak to anyone who saw what happened or was on the A905 around 11.45pm yesterday.

Id also request anyone with dashcam footage of Beancross Road around that time, please review your footage and bring anything of significance to our attention.

The 84-year-old is the third victim of Storm Isha after a young woman was killed in a horror crash with a tree, just hours after another driver was killed after his vehicle left the road.

The passenger, in her 20s, suffered fatal injuries when the van she was in collided with a tree at 1.50am on Monday in Carnalogue, County Louth in Ireland.

Another passenger, a man in his 20s, was treated at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening. No other injuries were reported.

Follow live updates on the weather across the UK by clicking here

The womans body remains at the scene this morning and a technical examination will be carried out by Gardai Forensic Collision Investigators later today. Local diversions are currently in place.

Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them and have closed the road.

A Louth County council spokesman said: Fire and Emergency Services remain at the scene of a tragic incident that occurred early this morning at Carnalogue.

Waves strike a breakwater, with the Newhaven Lighthouse in the background (Getty Images)

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the young female passenger who lost her life. Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam (At the right hand of God was her soul).

A Gardai spokesperson added: Gardai and emergency services attended the scene of a fatal road traffic incident that occurred at Carnalogue in County Louth during the early hours of Monday morning, 22 January.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area at the time, are asked to make this footage available to gardai.

Waves hit a structure at the Ireland coastline during Storm Isha in Dublin (via REUTERS)

The fatal crash came hours after another man, in his 40s, died in a crash in County Mayo. The man was the driver and only occupant of the car that left the road during difficult conditions at around 6.15pm on Sunday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

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.

A Status Yellow wind warning is in place for counties Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Leitrim and Sligo until 7pm, and further Status Yellow wind warnings are in place for the entire island on Tuesday and into Wednesday.

Very strong winds are expected in these areas, which can lead to large coastal waves, difficult travelling conditions and objects becoming loose and displaced.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
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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.
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The grieving mother of a 20-year-old woman who died after having weight-loss surgery in Turkey has spoken out days after her death, saying she never wants this to happen to another daughter.

Morgan Ribeiro travelled from her home in south London to Turkey for a 2,500 gastric sleeve operation earlier this month, with partner Jamie Brewster saying she had researched her options thoroughly because she did not want to spend years on an NHS waiting list.

But after being given the green light to fly home three days after the procedure on 5 January, Ms Ribeiro fell seriously ill during the flight back to Gatwick Airport, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing in Serbia, where she was rushed to hospital.

Medics informed Mr Brewster, 19, that his girlfriend was going into septic shock. He said doctors at the hospital told him they had to operate on Ms Ribeiro after discovering her small intestine had been cut during the gastric sleeve procedure, which led to an infection.

The family says surgeons removed 10cm of her small intestine and were hopeful she would pull through. However, on 9 January the family said Ms Ribeiro suffered a heart attack and she was put in an induced coma. She died four days later at 4am.

Morgans mother described her a loving, caring girl who loved singing (Provided)

Speaking days after her death, her mother Erin Gibson, 44, said her daughter had struggled with her weight in the past and was taunted by bullies from a young age, but that she had no idea that she was going to have the procedure.

Growing up she was bullied a lot, shes always battled with her weight and been a bigger girl and she had a really rough time with it, the mother-of-five said. I told her she was beautiful inside and out, she really was a beautiful girl.

Her daughter Kayleigh, 26, found out on Christmas Day that Ms Ribeiro was planning to travel to Turkey to have the surgery - the first time the 20-year-old would ever travel abroad - and begged her sister not to go through with it.

Ms Gibson said: By the time I found out it was too late, she was already on the plane. I had that sinking feeling because Id heard horror stories about Turkey. I never ever want this to happen to another daughter. I dont want her life to be in vain.

Erin, Morgans mother, described her as beautiful inside and out (Provided)

Gastric sleeve surgery is offered to clinically obese patients to help them lose weight. It involves removing part of the stomach to leave behind a sleeve, therefore reducing the size of the stomach and limiting hunger.

In September 2023 Ms Ribeiro had a virtual consultation with a company that connects prospective weight-loss patients with surgeries abroad and flew out on 4 January to have the procedure the following day.

Mr Brewster recalled hospital staff and translators speaking to her about the procedure and the recovery but does not remember any mention of the dangers associated with the operation. He said she was under the knife for two-and-a-half hours and complained of discomfort when she awoke, but medics reassured her she would be fine.

Morgan and Jamie were childhood sweethearts and met aged 15 (Provided)

Days went by and Mr Brewster says his partner followed medical advice to keep mobile to build up her strength, although the medical company refuted this claim and said Ms Ribeiro did not follow advice to walk and stay hydrated.

After being told they could return home, Mr Brewster said Ms Ribeiro was really hot and in a lot of pain while on the Wizz Air flight.

He said: The flight attendant gave her some ice and water and she was finding it hard to breathe so they took her to the front of the plane where there was more space, they tried to give her an oxygen mask. I could tell something was seriously wrong.

He said two doctors on board the flight rushed in to try and help before they made the emergency landing in Belgrade, Serbia, where she died in hospital five days later.

Morgan as a young girl pictured with her siblings (Provided)

Morgan was extremly close to her family (Provided)

Now the family has launched a fundraising page to give Ms Ribeiro the best send-off they can, with her mother wanting the ceremony to be a colourful celebration of her life. They estimate the cost to repatriate her body and funeral costs will be over 10,000.

She was loving, she was an artist, a drama queen, just like me, and she was beautiful inside and out, her mother said. She was outgoing, silly, friendly and loving. She loved singing and caring for others - and she worked closely with children.

Ms Ribeiros death comes after another British mother-of-three, 26-year-old Demi Agoglia, died after undergoing a Brazilian bum-lift operation in Turkey.

Demi Agoglia, mother who died after Brazilian Butt Lift surgery (Supplied)

At the time, Maria Caulfield, the minister for mental health and womens health strategy, expressed her concerns over a lack of regulation regarding health tourism in Turkey.

The organisation that connected Ms Ribeiro with the Turkish surgeon denied any wrongdoing.The Independent has reached out to the Turkish hospital and the Serbian hospital where Ms Ribeiro was treated but they are yet to respond.

A Wizz Air spokesperson said: We can confirm that during a flight from Istanbul to London Gatwick we made a diversion to Belgrade due to a passenger requiring medical assistance. The health and safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority, and in this instance the passenger was disembarked from the aircraft to seek urgent medical attention.

Were incredibly saddened to hear of the passenger passing away following their medical treatment and our thoughts remain with their family at this time.

A government spokesman said: We are supporting the family of a British woman who died in Belgrade and are in contact with the local authorities.

We urge anyone considering a medical procedure abroad to review our travel advice and the relevant guidance from the NHS and other professional bodies.
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Labour has backed the idea of teaching children about white privilege with a shadow minister saying it is a good idea.

Shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire said children need the opportunity to ask difficult questions sometimes of our nations history, insisting it would not be undermining Britain.

She was asked about childrens charity Barnados, which was criticised for publishing a guide for parents about white privilege.

The term refers to inherent advantages possessed by white people over non-white people on the basis of their race, with examples including a lower likelihood of being stopped and searched by police.

The Barnados guide encouraged parents to start the conversation with others who are interested and willing to learn and to teach your white friends, family and colleagues about their privilege.

Ms Debbonaire said children need to be able to ask difficult questions sometimes of our nations history (PA)

Ms Debonnaire was asked whether she supported the guide, and told BBC Radio 4s World at One programme: We need education that allows children the opportunity to question, to ask difficult questions sometimes of our nations history.

"Thats a strong country thats able to look at itself and its history and say are there things we could have done differently? Are there things we regret? Are there even things that were sorry about?

But also are there things we can learn so that we make a stronger, better country for the future?

Ms Debbonaire went on to say that encouraging children to be questioning is a good idea and is part of any really good education.

And she added: Questioning our symbols thinking about what they mean doesnt mean that youre undermining them.

It means that youre looking at them and thinking, how can I appreciate these symbols and what their meaning is?

Her comments stand in stark contrast with culture secretary Lucy Frazer, who has said the idea of white privilege is a debate and not a fact.

While education secretary, Ms Frazer told LBC radio: Weve basically said: Look, heres what we should be teaching, we should have balanced debate.

There is a lot of debate in the country, we should be able to have those debates. We should be able to have those open discussions, but you shouldnt be teaching things as fact that are debates.

Outspoken backbench Tory MP Jonathan Gullis went further, saying anyone using the term should be reported to the Home Office as an extremist.

The Independent in 2021 obtained a leaked recording in which Mr Gullis said anti-racism campaigners using the term should be referred to the governments Prevent programme  which is meant to track down potential terrorists.

Ms Debbonaires embrace of the sometimes controversial term came as Labour attacked the Tories for engaging in constant culture wars in a bid to stoke division ahead of this years general election.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer used a speech to set out his opposition to years of the Conservatives waging war on institutions such as the National Trust and tjhe Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

He condemned the Tories McCarthyite anti-woke attacks on British institutions as he promised to end years of divisive culture wars should he win the next election.

Ms Debbonaire was asked whether it marked a change of footing for Labour, but insisted the party has always wanted to defend our national institutions whether that is the National Trust or the BBC.
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Rishi Sunaks Rwanda deportation plan suffered its first parliamentary defeat as peers voted through an unprecedented move seeking to delay the treaty with the east African nation.

The House of Lords backed by 214 votes to 171  a majority of 43  a motion to delay the controversial deportation agreement until the government can prove the country is safe.

The chamber supported a call by Tony Blairs former attorney general Lord Goldsmith that parliament should not ratify the pact until government ministers can demonstrate Rwanda is safe.

The government agreed a legally-binding treaty with Kigali in December  arguing that it addressed concerns raised by the Supreme Court about the possibility of asylum seekers deported to Rwanda being transferred to a country where they could be at risk.

But Lord Goldsmiths cross-party agreements committee said promised safeguards in the agreement are incomplete and must be guaranteed before the pact can be endorsed.

The initial blow delivered by peers signals a potential rough ride for the legislation in the Lords, despite Mr Sunak urging peers not to block the will of the people.

While the government insists that the defeat will not delay the PMs bill moving through the Lords, there is now a risk that ignoring the new demand by peers could later be used in a legal challenge aiming to stop flights.

Sunak had warned peers not to frustrated the will of the people (Reuters)

The treaty underpins Mr Sunaks Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill which compels British judges to regard the country as safe.

Nigel Farage immediately lashed out at the result. We must sack all current members of the House of Lords, the hard-right figure tweeted on X. It is beyond parody.

Tory deputy chair Lee Anderson earlier said the Archbishop of Canterbury  a peer who has spoken out against the Rwanda plan  should put up small boat arrivals in the spare rooms of Lambeth Palace.

Lord Goldsmith explained that government now had until the middle of March to address 10 flawed areas of the treaty and show Rwanda is safe.

We are not saying the treaty should never be ratified, but we are saying that parliament should have the opportunity to scrutinise the treaty  before it makes a judgement about whether Rwanda is safe.

In a worrying sign for No 10, several Tory peers spoke out against Mr Sunaks bill and the plan to put failed asylum seekers on one-way flights to Rwanda.

Conservative Lord Balfe even questioned if anywhere in Africa is particularly safe. He said he could not think of any country in Africa that I would wish to go and live in.

The Liberal Democrats Lord Razzall said the reason for the plan to send people to Rwanda was to suggest it was such a hellhole that nobody would want to get on a boat.

Sunak with Rwanda president Paul Kagame (PA Archive)

The peer mocked the government for now trying so hard to demonstrate what a wonderful, safe place Rwanda is, adding: This might just be a moment for them to reflect on the purpose of their policy.

Defending the plan in the Lords, junior Home Office minister Baron Sharpe said it was offensive to refer to Rwanda as a hellhole.

And Conservative peer Lord Howell, a former cabinet minister, questioned the move to demand the government demonstrates the country is safety.

What does safe mean? It is an entirely subjective concept and always will be. In our own judicial system, is that safe? I dont know. I am not sure all our postmasters would agree about the safety of our own judicial system.

Last week the PM urged the Lords not to frustrate the will of the people over his plan to stop the boats, saying the public had enough of the merry go round.

Labour former shadow attorney general Baroness Chakrabarti criticised Mr Sunak for suggesting that he had some sort of telepathic connection will the will of the people.

The second reading debate on the Rwanda bill is due to be held in the Lords on 29 January.
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Liz Truss is setting up yet another Conservative faction in a bid to push Rishi Sunak further to the right with the partys general election manifesto.

The former PM  kicked out of No 10 by her own party after only six weeks in charge  will launch the Popular Conservatism group early next month.

The new push by free-market right-wingers is backed by former ministers in the Truss government, Jacob Rees-Mogg, Simon Clarke and Ranil Jayawardena.

Despite leaving No 10 in disgrace after his mini-budget debacle sparked market panic, Ms Truss has continued to push her low-tax agenda as he tries to restore her reputation.

Advertising a 6 February launch event, the PopCon organisation promise a new movement aiming to restore democratic accountability to Britain and deliver popular Tory policies.

The Independent understands that the group is aiming to help shape the next Conservative manifesto in the months ahead, as Mr Sunak and party chiefs prepare their election campaign for the second half of 2024.

Liz Truss has been unapologetic about economic chaos during her time at No 10 (Getty Images)

The new Popular Conservatism movement will not replace another group set up by Ms Trusss allies last year called the Conservative Growth Group.

The free-market faction has not proved particularly active or influential  though has pushed for the liberalising the planning system to get more houses built.

Ms Truss has been largely unapologetic about her unfunded spree of tax cuts which saw her short premiership unravel in October 2022. She has continued to lash out at economists and institutional bureaucracy in defending the ideas behind her disastrous mini-budget.

Ms Truss latest association joins an extremely crowded field of Conservative groups and factions. It comes hot on the heels of gatherings by the so-called five families of the Tory right who tried to toughen up the Rwanda deportation bill.

The European Research Group joined dozens of MPs aligned with the New Conservatives, the Common Sense Group, the Northern Research Group and the Conservative Growth Group to plot amendments which ultimately failed.

The Conservatives election strategy Isaac Levido has appealed for unity as the party continues to squabble over the totemic stop the boats policy.

Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who is believed to have been working closely with the New Conservatives to change the bill, has refused to rule out a bid for the leadership of the party.

But no figure on the right as emerged as a series rival to Mr Sunak, with the vast majority of MPs resigned to him leading the party into the general election.

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.
ON BOARD THE USS BATAAN  When attacks with missiles and drones surged in the Red Sea late last year, crewmembers of the USS Bataan worked round the clock to make sure they were shot down before reaching passing merchant vessels.

Weeks later, they are still perfecting that operation in training and simulations, along with a dozen other scenarios, despite moving north to the Mediterranean where commercial marine traffic is at little risk.

The U.S. Navy is reshuffling its warship deployment in the Middle East to maintain dominance in the region  now eyeing the longer haul as concerns mount that Israels war on Hamas in Gaza could set off a regional conflict.

An amphibious warship, the Bataan is a multi-deck assault vessel jammed full of armored vehicles and military hardware with a lower bay that can take on water to release landing craft directly into the sea.

The ship is now leading the United States task force in the eastern Mediterranean, following the Navys newest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald Ford, which was sent home at the New Year.

The Bataan and two support ships, the USS Mesa Verde and USS Carter Hall, have a combined force of nearly 2,500 Marines and sailors.

Marine Lt. Col. Jeremy Hawkins, a senior planner on the task force, says the makeup of the multi-role naval force is ideal for the complex nature of the conflict and for related regional sources of tension.

Were able to operate really autonomously in international waters and airspace. And so it gives us a lot of freedom of operations, he said. Were floating on a piece of America, wherever were at.

As he spoke, a jump jet AV-8B Harrier roared off the deck overhead, launching a night flight designed to maintain readiness for pilots and support staff.

Now in its 15th week, the war in Gaza continues to pile tension onto multiple flashpoints in the wider region, many involving militant groups supported by Iran, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi movement in Yemen.

The deployment of the USS Bataan to the eastern Med is meant to do two things, said Gregory Aftandilian, a senior lecturer at the School of International Service, at the American University in Washington DC.

Its to deter Hezbollah from increasing its missile attacks against Israel, which has the potential to lead to a wider war, and to bolster the US naval presence in the Red Sea to hopefully deter the Houthis from launching more attacks on shipping in that body of water.

The United States assembled a powerful concentration of naval forces in October, sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East after Hamas attacks in Israel triggered the ongoing offensive in Gaza.

The Bataan was sailing toward the eastern Mediterranean Friday after taking part in live-fire exercises with NATO-member Greece on the countrys mainland.

At sea for six months, crew members have had their deployment extended because of the crisis, the U.S. military relying on the fast deployment skills of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, based in North Carolina, combined with the Navy.

That means snipers and demolition experts spend their days in close quarters with ICU doctors and intelligence officers.

They all live connected by a maze of windowless passageways, many using remote corners to carve out a workout space or using the incline of deck ramps to exercise.

Fourteen floors of living quarters and administrative areas are wrapped around a helicopter hanger and hospital positioned in the center of the 257-meter (843-foot) ship.

Attack helicopter pilot Marine Capt. Sam Peters says he hopes to return home soon to his home in Valdosta in the southern U.S. state of Georgia but realizes his stay on the ship could again be extended.

To be completely honest, were constantly training and constantly ready to respond to crises, I dont think our mission has really changed, he said. I would say, the difference (after coming to Greece) is that the food is a little bit better.

How Houthi attacks crimp global trade Why are Houthis attacking ships? Why is the Red Sea important? How are Houthi attacks affecting trade? What does it mean for oil prices? How is the world responding?
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Families of Israeli hostages say more needs to be done after meeting the Prime Minister in London.

The relatives of hostages being held in Gaza landed in the UK on Monday for a three-day visit to raise awareness and call on the Government to put pressure onto leading figures in Qatar  which has helped to mediate negotiations between Israel and Hamas  to do more.

They said Rishi Sunak told them he is going to do everything he can, as they called for UK leaders to put pressure on Qatar to pick a side.

Ziv Abud told the PA news agency how she had to hide under bodies after her nephew and his partner were killed and her boyfriend was kidnapped on October 7.

Ms Abud, 26, fled the Nova party in Reim with her family after the violence began, and they took shelter with 30 others in front of the Reim base.

Hamas gunmen arrived and threw grenades into the shelter. Ms Abuds partner, Eliya Cohen, 26, was shot in the leg.

Ms Abuds nephew and his partner were killed along with 18 others.

Ms Abud said: We were in the shelter for half an hour and after this we heard the shooting very, very close, five minutes after they were in our shelter.

They threw more than nine grenades to the shelter. After they threw the grenades, they start to take people from the shelter.

They took Eliya and three more people. They put them on a van then they came inside the shelter and start shooting everybody.

She added: I sat for six hours with their bodies, my nephews body in front of my eyes.

Two weeks later, they saw a video which showed Mr Cohen, and they said they could see he was injured, but nothing is now known about his condition or his whereabouts.

Ms Abud and her friend Michal Rahoom told the Prime Minister what had happened and said Mr Sunak told them he would do everything that he can to help  but called for more to be done.

Ms Rahoom said: Hes doing a lot, hes going to a lot of meetings. He also been in Israel a couple of days after everything happened.

So we really appreciate, but we need to do a lot more.

Ms Abud added that she believes if Qatar wanted, the hostages could be released tomorrow morning.

Eli Albag, father of 18-year-old Liri Albag  who was kidnapped near the border, said it was very important for him to meet Mr Sunak and tell him his daughters story.

Ms Albag, who lives in Moshav Yarhiv in the centre of Israel and started her career training in the military, was kidnapped from her bed near the border with three other women.

He said some of the hostages who were released were with his daughter, and they described the conditions.

Mr Albag said: They say that they dont have food, they dont have water, they dont take a shower, theyre sleeping on the floor, very cold humidity, 40 metres under the ground.

And the most important issue, they are touching them.

There were some pictures taken of her 50 days ago, but no sightings or knowledge about her condition or whereabouts since.

Mr Albag has described his family as broken, adding: All our lives have collapsed.

Mr Albag, who showed the Prime Minster a photo of his daughter, said: He was very sensitive and inside his heart is like a very warm person. And for me, its made me feel more close and that he understands our situation very well.

Mr Albag said he was told by the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary David Cameron that they will speak to Qatar.

He said: They will have a meeting with them and they will talk to them and they know everything and David Cameron said that hes coming to Israel, he will go to Egypt and he will go to Qatar too.

Liran Berman, brother of 26-year-old twins Ziv and Gali  who were kidnapped from their house in Kfar Aza, showed Mr Sunak a picture of his little brothers and asked the Prime Minister to keep pushing on the release of the hostages.

Mr Berman, 36, said: We know that the Prime Minister is very supportive of the cause of the release of the hostages. He was one of the first prime ministers, officials, to come to Israel after October 7.

And I asked him to keep pushing on the release of the hostages, to not let it go. Half have been released, some have died, but there are a lot who are still being held captive. So we need his help.

Mr Berman was two hours away from his brothers and felt completely helpless on October 7.

Around 9.30am or 10am, we lost contact with my brothers, he added. We did contact them in the morning, they told us that they are in the safe room, later we found out that they were burning the rooms outside.

For 10 days we knew nothing about them, they were considered missing, and then 10 days later an official came to us and told us they had been kidnapped and were in Gaza.

Mr Berman said when hostages were released they told the family they had seen the twins, but they were not together and both had minor injuries.

He said his family are very tired but very focused and added that helping to release the hostages is the mission of their lives.
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The world's first routine malaria vaccination programme has started in Cameroon  with the aim of saving thousands of children's lives per year across Africa.

Around 40 years in the making, the World Health Organization (WHO)-approved RTS,S vaccine, developed by British drugmaker GSK, is designed to work alongside existing tools such as bed nets to combat malaria. The disease kills nearly half a million children under the age of five each year in Africa.

After successful trials, including in Ghana and Kenya, Cameroon is the first country to administer doses through a routine programme, which 19 other countries aim to roll out this year, according to global vaccine alliance Gavi.

There are plans to vaccinate 6.6 million children this year and next across the 20 countries. Africa accounts for 96 per cent of all the worlds deaths from malaria.

For a long time, we have been waiting for a day like this, said Mohammed Abdulaziz of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at a joint online briefing with the WHO, Gavi and other organisations.

Researchers at the Medical Research Council Unit, The Gambia (MRCG), at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) have been working alongside local communities and volunteers in Africa for almost three decades to research, develop and deploy the jab.

Professor Umberto DAlessandro, director of the MRCG, said: Making the RTS,S vaccine available as a routine vaccination is only possible thanks to decades of work by researchers in Africa working with international partners, with clinical trials at MRCG at LSHTM starting back in 1997.

The support of volunteers and communities both in The Gambia and the region has been vital in showing that RTS,S, the worlds first malaria vaccine, was safe and could save lives, he said.

The urgency is clear. Disruptions linked to the Covid-19 pandemic, rising insecticide resistance and other issues have hindered the fight against malaria in recent years with cases rising by around 5 million year-on-year in 2022, according to the WHO. Globally in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries. Children under five accounted for about 80 per cent of all malaria deaths in the African region.

Overall, more than 30 countries on the continent have expressed interest in introducing the vaccine. Fears of a supply squeeze have eased since a second vaccine, R21, completed a key regulatory step in December. R21, developed by Oxford University and the Serum Institute of India, was prequalified by the WHO, a crucial step in making the vaccine eligible for global use.

Rolling out the second vaccine is expected to result in sufficient vaccine supply to meet the high demand and reach millions more children, the WHOs director of immunisation, Kate OBrien, said at the briefing. R21 could be launched in May or June, said Gavis chief programme officer, Aurelia Nguyen.

"Having two vaccines for malaria will help to close the huge gap between demand and supply and could save tens of thousands of young lives, especially in Africa," said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, at a meeting of the UN body's executive board on Monday.

Health experts at the briefing said the rollout was accompanied by extensive community outreach to combat any vaccine hesitancy and to emphasise the importance of continuing to use all established malaria-prevention tools.

The WHO has recommended a schedule of four doses in children from around five months of age, with a fifth dose considered after one year in areas of high risk.
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A Google software engineer was found spattered with blood after he allegedly beat his wife to death inside their Santa Clara, California home, according to the Santa Clara District Attorneys Office.

Liren Chen, 27, faces a murder charge in the death of his wife whose battered body was found near him when police responded to the grisly crime scene on 16 January.

Officers arrived at the home on Valley Way around 11am after an acquaintance of Mr Chen and his wife who was concerned for their safety called for a welfare check, authorities said.

The acquaintance told officers that Mr Chen was refusing to answer the phone and the door. He stated that he then saw him motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly, according to a press release issued by the prosecutors office.

Police made their way into the home where they found Mr Chen covered in blood. His right hand was extremely swollen and purple and he had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands. He also had scratches on his arm, authorities said.

Mr Chens wifes body was found directly behind him in the living room where he had been standing, according to authorities. She had severe blunt force injuries to her head and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The wifes identity was not released by prosecutors, but the San Francisco Standard, citing property records, reported that her name was Xuanyi Yu and that she also worked for Google, according to her LinkedIn, which has since been changed to say In Remembrance.

Property records show that Mr Chen was married to Xuanyi Yu and that the couple owned a home at 714 Valley Way, where police responded on the night of the incident.

According to LinkedIn, Mr Chen has worked at Google since 2020 and attended Tsinghua University in China and the University of California San Diego along with Ms Yu.

Mr Chen was transported to the hospital where he will be arraigned on the murder charge, the prosecutors release stated.

Domestic violence deaths have been falling in our county but that does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement. 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.
 Close Michelle Troconis defended by her family at Jennifer Dulos murder conspiracy trial

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Michelle Troconis is facing trial in Stamford, Connecticut for her alleged role in helping her lover Fotis Dulos conceal the murder of his estranged wife and mother of his five children, Jennifer Dulos.

At the time of her disappearance in May 2019, Jennifer  whose remains have never been found  was in the midst of a bitter divorce and custody battle with Dulos. Investigators believe Fotis killed her in the garage of her home and that Ms Troconis, Fotis then-girlfriend, helped him cover up the murder.

On Thursday, Ms Troconis broke down in tears in the courtroom as jurors were shown her first interview with police following Jennifers disappearance.

In the footage, she is heard claiming that she and Dulos were staying together that morning, and that he woke up in her presence and got in the shower with her.

Earlier in the week, jurors saw a bloodstained long-sleeve, striped Vineyard Vines shirt that Jennifer is believed to have been wearing on the day she was killed.

Fotis killed himself in 2020 after being charged with murder.

Ms Troconis is charged with conspiracy to murder, tampering with evidence and hindering prosecution.

Warning: Graphic images
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A human head and hands were discovered in the freezer of a recently sold home in Colorado.

The body parts were found in Grand Junction on 12 January, and deputies responded to the residence regarding a suspicious incident, stated the Mesa County Sheriffs Office.

Persons at the address cleaning out the recently sold property discovered possible human remains inside the residence, the department added.

The case is now being investigated as a homicide.

An autopsy conducted by the Mesa County Coroners Office confirmed the head and hands were human, but the remains have not yet been identified.

Our hope is to positively identify the victim while remaining respectful of the victim and the victims family, the sheriffs office said.

Little else is known about the case so far, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact them with tips.

At this time, we have no other definitive answers until further testing can be completed, they said. These types of tests take a significant amount of time, and again, we ask for patience from the public as this investigation continues.

A woman who lives across the street, Sam Troester, told 9 News the houses previous residents had moved out that morning, and the new ones came in later that day.

It turns out that the new owners of the house posted online that they were looking to sell a bunch of the garbage that was left behind, scrap metal and things that people could repurpose, and there was a deep freezer that was posted up for grabs, Ms Troester said.

She noticed something was going on when workers with hazmat suits showed up at the property and spoke to them when they asked to use her bathroom.

I let them in and cautiously I was like, Whats going on? And they continued to tell me that they opened the freezer to empty it so they could transport it and they said a head fell out, said Ms Troester.
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The former New York governor Andrew Cuomo is suing the state Attorney General Letitia James and her office, hoping to force her to release witness statements from the sexual misconduct investigation that led to his resignation.

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday, is asking for the release of witness statements to defend himself in two sexual harassment lawsuits that stem directly from the OAGs investigation and report.

A federal judge declined the request to release similar records in a separate case filed by Mr Cuomo last year, CBS reports.

In the lawsuit obtained by The Independent, Mr Cuomo alleged that despite Respondent James August 3, 2021 public promise to release those materials, Respondent James has no intention of releasing those materials.

Governor Cuomo vehemently denies having sexually harassed anyone, and the witness statements relating to the allegations in both actions are critical to his defense, the suit added.

He also argued that the public has a right and interest in knowing Ms James and the New York OAGs work and the reasons behind why the report made their democratically elected governor resign.

New York Attorney General Letitia James released a report on Mr Cuomo back in 2020 on allegations surrounding sexual harassment (Getty Images)

The suit claims that Ms James has relentlessly fought against producing the requested materials, claiming undue burden, sovereign immunity and various privileges.

Mr Cuomo resigned in 2021 after the attorney generals office released a damning report stating that the former governor had sexually harassed state employees and others outside of government, citing 11 women in total in the report.

The report claimed he harassed them through unwelcome and unwanted touching and offensive and sexually suggestive comments.

Mr Cuomo said that he needs the materials to defend himself in two lawsuits, one by an anonymous New York state trooper and another by Charlotte Bennett, a former aide, whose name was also in the OAG report.

The former government denies the bombshell allegations set against him over two years ago.

I never touched anyone inappropriately or made inappropriate sexual advances. I am 63 years old. Ive lived my entire adult life in public view. That is just not who I am, and thats not who I have ever been, Mr Cuomo said back in 2021.

Mr Cuomo has asked that the court vacate the denials of his Freedom of Information Law request and compel Ms James and the New York attorney generals office to disclose all the records in his request.

The former governor said in a statement to CBS News Friday that every single piece of information that has come out over the last two years has done nothing but undermine Tish James sham report and, after publicly stating that evidence will be made available to the public, shes done everything she can to hide these documents from taxpayers. This was a political hit job from the beginning to pave the way for Tishs failed campaign for governor and its sad that the courts are needed to step in and order the states top lawyer to stop violating the law."

The Independent has reached out to Andrew Cuomo and Letitia James for comment.
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Congressional leaders were presented with a grim picture of the collapse of Ukraines military without continued US aid in the form of ammunition, vehicles and other supplies during a meeting at the White House, according to NBC News.

Officials with knowledge of the 17 January White House meeting between President Joe Biden and congressional leaders Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, Mike Johnson and Hakeem Jeffries told the news outlet that top US officials are predicting massive Russian advances and a total collapse of Ukraines ability to fight back should US aid to the latter dry up.

Mr Biden has requested $60bn in supplemental assistance for Ukraine. That request has been met with bickering in Congress, where Republicans are seeking to use the issue as leverage against the administration and Democrats in funding talks.

Within weeks, Ukraine will run out of certain air defence capabilities, national security adviser Jake Sullivan is reported as having told the assembled lawmakers. That could lead to a wide expansion of Russias air assaults on not just the front lines but targets across Ukraine. According to Mr Sullivan, Ukraine could only effectively remain a capable fighting force for a few months, possibly even just a few weeks, if further US aid was not passed by Congress.

There was also reportedly talk of the effect that a defeat of Ukraine would have on the USs image abroad; countries caught between the US and Russia (or China) would likely rethink decisions to seek closer ties with the US, Biden administration officials warned.

Its the first real sign that the Biden administration is seriously worried about the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war, especially now that the issue of Ukraine aid has become mired in domestic US politics. It is vehemently opposed by some right-wing members of the GOP House caucus, who thanks to the lowered motion to vacate threshold in the chamber have an oversized amount of influence over Mike Johnson, the speaker.

And it comes as lawmakers do not appear to be significantly closer to inking a deal on the issue of immigration and border security, an issue griped about for years in Washington with little action to match. Republicans have demanded that border security and the issue of large numbers of immigrants crossing the border illegally as part of their efforts to begin the asylum process be dealt with before aid to Ukraine (or Israel) is passed; however, the hard-right GOP House caucus has simultaneously shown little interest in addressing the compromise being sought in the Democrat-controlled Senate in any meaningful way.

Mr Johnson himself has cast doubt on the idea that immigration-related legislation will pass the House as a result of the Senate negotiations and has said that the issue will not be truly addressed until a Republican is present in the White House.

It remains unclear, then, what path Ukraine aid has through the House of Representatives. Mr Biden has made little progress in talks with Mr Johnson, and there appears to be little synergy on the issue between the House and Senate Republican caucuses.

The future of the USs commitment to Ukraine has been put wholly into question thanks to the ongoing American presidential election. Though the most vocal skeptics of further US military aid for Ukraines cause have now dropped out of the Republican primary race, Donald Trumps comments about the issue have drawn worried responses from Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president.

Mr Zelensky recently denounced his onetime American counterpart for his frequent boasting about his supposed ability to stop the war within days of his hypothetical election to a second term.

[Trump] is going to make decisions on his own, without  Im not even talking about Russia, but without both sides, without us," Mr Zelensky said, according to the Associated Press. 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.
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Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. With these words, grandly credited to British wartime prime ministerWinston Churchill, Ron DeSantis tweeted a video in which he revealed he was suspending his sinking presidential campaign.

There was one problem though: these words were apparently never said by Churchill, according to the International Churchill Society.

Mr DeSantis used the quote while announcing his campaign suspension on X, formerly Twitter, on Sunday.

However, years earlier the society honouring the memory of the two-time UK prime minister had debunked the idea that the ever-quotable politican had ever said this.

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 organisation said in response to a 2013 article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution which also used the same quote.

Churchill did say: No one can guarantee success in war, but only deserve it, the organisation said, adding that the prime minister also said, success always demands a greater effort.

Mr DeSantis was trailing behind former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley and former president Donald Trump in the single digits ahead of the New Hampshire primaries next week. Ms Haley is trailing behind Mr Trump.

Mr DeSantis used the opportunity to endorse the man who at times seems to be his arch-nemesis, and who had dubbed him Ron DeSanctimonious and Meatball Ron.

Its clear to me a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, Mr DeSantis said in a video message. They watched his presidency get stymied by relentless resistance.

Still, Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden, he said. That is clear.
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.
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Ron DeSantis is suspending his 2024 presidential campaign.

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.

The Florida governor went on to endorse former president Donald Trump 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 honour 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.

At his own New Hampshire rally on Sunday, Mr Trump responded to the news that his one-time Republican rival had given him his backing with some rare praise.

Gone were Mr Trumps favoured nicknames for the Florida governor  DeSantimonious or DeSanctus  as perhaps the most bitter rivalry of the Republicans 2024 campaign seemed to come to an abrupt end.

I just want to thank Ron and congratulate him on doing a very good job, Mr Trump said at the outset of his remarks.

He was very gracious, and he endorsed me. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron.

Mr Trump described Mr DeSantis as a really terrific person.

Earlier, the Trump campaign issued a statement to tell voters its time to choose wisely between Mr Trump and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, the only other candidate left in the race for the GOP nomination.

Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement, the statement read. 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.

Ms Haley said Mr DeSantis ran a great race after receiving the news he had dropped out during a New Hampshire campaign event.

Hes been a good governor, and we wish him well, Ms Haley said on Sunday afternoon. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left.

California governor Gavin Newsom also chimed in on Sunday afternoon: Fire sale on all Ron DeSantis merch today! The two governors have long had a bitter rivalry and faced off just last month in a debate hosted by Fox News Sean Hannity.

Sarafina Chitika, national press secretary for the Democratic National Committee, released a statement in response to the Florida governor suspending his campaign.

Ron 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, Ms Chitika said in a statement provided to The Independent.

Mr DeSantis announcement comes just two 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 were projecting, he would have been inelligble for any delegates per state primary rules.

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 Florida governors campaign was plagued by challenges long before the primary season kicked off in Iowa.

The first sign of trouble began nearly one year ago, when Mr Trumps campaign ran an attack ad centered around rumours Mr DeSantis ate pudding with his fingers. That rumour, which originated from a Daily Beast story in March 2023, circulated for months afterwards. The governor himself even referenced it in a discussion with CNNs Jake Tapper, telling the anchor of his electability: The proof is in the pudding.

Troubles for the DeSantis campaign only escalated from there.

As the campaign escalated, Mr DeSantis seemed to avoid discussion of Mr Trump, apparently waiting for the former president to lose the nomination on his own, per analysis from The Independents Washington, DC Bureau Chief and Senior Washington Correspondent Eric Garcia.

Then, 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.

I cannot in good conscience stay affiliated with Never Back Down given the statements in the Washington Post today, Mr Roe said in a statement on X. They are not true and an unwanted distraction at a critical time for Governor DeSantis.

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.

That same report revealed a peculiar behaviour by Scott Wagner, who took over as CEO of Never Back Down in December: He spent a significant amount of time constructing a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle at the PAC headquarters in West Des Moines, Iowa.

If Mr Trump secures the 2024 Republican nomination, Mr DeSantis could possibly be a contender for the vice presidency. However, Mr Trumps pick remains to be seen, as the former president claims he has already chosen a running mate but refuses to reveal their identity.

Last week, the former presidents son, Donald Trump Jr., said both Mr DeSantis and former Fox News personality Tucker Carlson are among the contenders for Mr Trumps vice president.

The former presidents eldest son, however, did say he would make sure Ms Haley wasnt an option.

I dont think thats currently really on the table, he said of the former South Carolina governor.

The Independent has contacted Mr DeSantis campaign and Never Back Down for additional comment.
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And then there were two.

Ron DeSantiss presidential bid ended unceremoniously on Sunday with a Twitter video marking the end of a campaign that had begun on the same platform. It was a ho-hum but not necessarily surprising end for a candidate who had placed a distant second in a state where he has thrown everything he had against the frontrunner and who faced a difficult primary contest calendar going ahead.

Now, the race is down to Nikki Haley and Donald Trump, the latter of whom remains the far-and-away favourite to win it all after a decisive victory in the Iowa caucuses; the former president won 51 per cent of the vote. The 2024 GOP primary has, so far, played out exactly as the polls predicted it would.

So what does Sundays development mean for Mr DeSantiss two rivals for the nomination?

Donald Trump

Mr Trump was once the favourite for the nomination. After today, this could easily become a coronation.

In his video remarks announcing his decision on Sunday, Mr DeSantis made two things clear: one, that he believes the primary is over, and two, that he sees himself firmly aligned with the greater hard-right faction of the GOP represented by Donald Trump and Trumpism. Nikki Haley, he reasons, represents the partys old guard  a decaying establishment he sees as on its last legs.

That latter point is the key news here; Ron DeSantis was not running as an alternative to Donald Trump because he believed that he could change the direction of the GOP  or necessarily even wanted to. The Florida governor was running to be Mr Trumps successor in a movement that has been ascendant within the GOP since the days of Tea Party Republicans and which saw its power at its zenith during the rise of Mr Trump and his one term in office. If you follow Mr DeSantiss line of thinking, that trend is going nowhere any time soon, and resisting it makes little sense.

Which leaves us with Mr Trump, the continued leader of that faction of conservatism and the only one still in the race willing to champion it. Vivek Ramaswamy and Ron DeSantis, both running to be Trump without the baggage, are gone; as such, it remains Mr Trumps race to win.

Nikki Haley

Ms Haley remains in a tough spot. In Iowa, she finished third despite much ado about a last minute surge in her favour. Shes currently on the ground in New Hampshire, continuing a tour of the state with her top surrogate, the states Republican governor, as she seeks a surprise rout of Donald Trump in the state.

Does that sound familiar? It should; its exactly the same strategy which Ron DeSantis pursued in Iowa. And despite appearances in all 99 of Iowas counties, the governor finished roughly 30 points behind the former president.

Simply put, all eyes are on Ms Haley, now. The ex-ambassador and governor needs to prove in New Hampshire that the Republican nominating contest is still that: a contest, and not a coronation. To do that, she needs to be competitive  either by beating Mr Trump or coming, at a minimum, a few percentage points from his total. An Iowa-style blowout will almost certainly sap any chance she has of convincing voters going forward that her campaign has a chance at winning the nomination.

Donald Trumps campaign drove this point home to reporters on Sunday, in a statement declaring that Ms Haley has two options should she lose in the state: drop out, or get demolished in her home state of South Carolina.
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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.
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Donald Trump has announced that his nickname of Ron DeSanctimonious, used to describe his former Republican rival Ron DeSantis, has been officially retired.

The former president told reporters that he would no longer be using the term, after the Florida governor pulled out of the race to win the GOP presidential candidate nomination on Sunday.

Mr DeSantis finished in second place behind Mr Trump and ahead of Nikki Haley in the Iowa caucuses last week, but said he could not see a clear path to victory ahead of voting in New Hampshire this week.

In a statement over the weekend, he offered his backing to Mr Trump, saying that despite their previous differences it was clear that Republicans wanted to give the former president another chance.

Speaking to reporters following the announcement, Mr Trump repeated one of the questions he was asked, saying Will I be using the name Ron DeSanctimonious?

That name is officially retired, he said, prompting cheers from the crowds.

The nickname, used by Mr Trump throughout his 2024 campaign, combines the last name DeSantis with sanctimonious, which means hypocritically pious or devout, according to Merriam-Webster.

It had derived from Mr DeSantis acting disloyal by running against him for president after he helped get the Florida Republican elected as governor, the former president told Fox News.

Mr DeSantis announced the suspension of his presidential campaign on Saturday (Ron DeSantis )

Mr Trump has also previously referred to Mr DeSantis as Meatball Ron.

The Florida Governor was mocked for his endorsement of Mr Trump after announcing the suspension of his campaign, having previously denounced others for kissing the ring of the former president.

You can be the most worthless Republican in America, but if you kiss the ring, hell say youre wonderful, the Florida governor said ahead of last weeks Iowa caucus.

You can be the strongest, most dynamic, successful Republican and conservative in America, but if you dont kiss that ring, then hell try to trash you.
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The odds are stacked against Nikki Haley. To have the slimmest of chances of beating Donald Trump, she needs to overcome the polls, the former presidents momentum, and his now almost decade-long iron grip on the Republican base.

But if shes to achieve one of the most stunning upsets in GOP primary history, that journey has to begin in New Hampshire on Tuesday.

The former president garnered 52 per cent to his former UN ambassadors 34 per cent, according to polling of likely New Hampshire GOP primary voters by The Washington Post and Monmouth University conducted between 16 and 20 January.

While the numbers are moving in her favour  she has gained 16 points since November to Mr Trumps six  its unlikely to be enough.

The problem for the former South Carolina governor is that while she can claim to have momentum on her side, she eventually needs to get more votes than the other guy.

Everything Trump has said has been a lie, Nikki Haley claims

Waiting for Trump to fall in 2016 and 2024

In 2016, candidates like Florida Senator Marco Rubio and former Ohio Governor John Kasich stayed in the race beyond their time in the hope that Mr Trump would suddenly drop like a rock under the weight of his many scandals.

In 2024, all but one of Mr Trumps challengers didnt make it nearly as far, but part of their thinking appeared to be similar to those taking on Mr Trump eight years previously  this time it was the former presidents litany of legal problems that was going to take him out.

Even if Mr Trump is convicted on any of the 91 counts against him before he wins the nomination  which at the moment appears unlikely  the Republican base doesnt seem to want to leave him behind. In fact, the indictments against him have boosted his support among likely GOP primary voters.

In short, what Ms Haley needs to do in New Hampshire is both simple and bordering on impossible  she either needs diehard Trump fans to vote for her instead of the former president or mount a stunning upset by cobbling together an unlikely coalition of Democrats, independents, and moderate Republicans with college degrees.

Biden pounces on latest Trump confusion to list recent gaffes in new campaign ad

Setting the goalposts wide

The candidate herself has set the goalposts miles wide, essentially ensuring that shell score.

During a CNN town hall on Thursday, Ms Haley said that her aim for New Hampshire is to outperform her own result in Iowa, where she finished third, two points behind Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who in turn was 30 points behind Mr Trump.

Mr DeSantis ended his campaign on Sunday, allowing Ms Haley to claim that Iowa created a two-person race. While there are technically two people in the race, only Mr Trump appears to have any chance of winning the nomination. With Mr DeSantis out of the race and with a more moderate GOP primary electorate in the Granite State, Ms Haley will probably do better than she did in Iowa by simply remaining in the race.

Ms Haley is doing what all presidential candidates do  avoid setting any actual goals and claim victory regardless of the result such as when Bill Clinton declared himself the comeback kid in 1992 after a surprising second-place finish in New Hampshire.

While the ambassador may gain some momentum by outperforming expectations on Tuesday, such non-material things as momentum will soon hold no value as Mr Trump begins to rack up delegates.

Trump Continues Racially Charged Name-Calling, Targets Nikki Haley as 'Nimbra

We wont know what strong looks like until those numbers come in

The reality-check moment for Ms Haley could be New Hampshire, one of few states where the GOP primary electorate appears to be at least somewhat interested in a Trump alternative.

What I want to do is be strong, Ms Haley said on CNN on Thursday. We wont know what strong looks like until those numbers come in.

The ex-governor is giving herself ample space to argue that her performance in New Hampshire is exactly what she needed, regardless of the number of votes she actually gets.

As of 22 January, Mr Trump stood at 66.2 per cent support among the national GOP electorate while Ms Haley was at 12.3 per cent, according to FiveThirtyEights polling average. Ms Haley likely needs to vastly overperform expectations in New Hampshire, if not outright beat Mr Trump, to even begin to turn this ship around.

Like many of the now-departed candidates, Ms Haley has largely avoided going for the jugular in her guarded attacks on Mr Trump. But in the last few days before the New Hampshire primary, she has argued that he may not be mentally fit to lead the country, criticised him for attempting to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us, and slammed him for his many falsehoods.

Who is Nikki Haley, Trumps last rival in Republican primaries?

See you at the finish line

Ms Haley needs a boost in New Hampshire if she wants to avoid losing the state she led as governor until she joined the Trump administration in 2017. Mr Trump has won the backing of South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, whom Ms Haley appointed to the senate and who dropped out of the presidential race before voting had begun. During a rally in Manchester, New Hampshire on Saturday, Mr Trump invited several top officials from the state up on stage, including current South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster.

New Hampshire is for Trump. South Carolina is too. Well see you at the finish line, the governor told the crowd.

To add insult to injury, Rep Nancy Mace, who represents the South Carolina district where Ms Haley lives, has also endorsed Mr Trump.

To win on Tuesday, Ms Haley would need massive support from independents and unaffiliated voters, who can vote in the GOP primary under New Hampshire rules. This includes people who may see themselves as Democrats but who choose to cross the aisle to vote against Mr Trump.

She would also need to see a large turnout from her base of moderates and the shrinking group of college-graduate Republicans, in combination with a limited loss in her support among conservatives, and an increase in support from those who backed former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and supporters of the states popular Republican Governor Chris Sununu, who has endorsed and campaigned for her.

Similarly, women who dont want to vote for Mr Trump, who has a history of misogynic behaviour, could help bring Ms Haley across the finish line in New Hampshire.

Who benefits more from from Ron DeSantis dropping out: Donald Trump or Nikki Haley?

Overcoming Trumps show of force

But it would be an incredibly heavy lift, something former New Hampshire Republican Chair Jennifer Horn thinks wont happen.

I think it is all over, she told Bloomberg.

On Monday night, Mr Trump will be joined at a rally by three of his former challengers  Mr Scott, anti-woke author and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, in a show of force for a GOP united behind Mr Trump, according to Fox News.

To overcome it, everything needs to go right for Ms Haley on Tuesday. And even if it does, it probably wont be enough to win the nomination.
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Ron DeSantis is facing a similar kind of mockery he previously aimed at his competitors for kissing the ring of former President Donald Trump.

Before dropping out of the race just days before Tuesdays New Hampshire primary, Mr DeSantis often made fun of other Republicans and their deference to Mr Trump.

You can be the most worthless Republican in America, but if you kiss the ring, he'll say you're wonderful, the Florida governor said in Ankeny, Iowa ahead of the states caucuses. You can be the strongest, most dynamic, successful Republican and conservative in America, but if you don't kiss that ring, then hell try to trash you. You know what? You deserve a nominee that's going to put you first, not himself first.

After dropping out of the race on Sunday, Mr DeSantis turned around and endorsed Mr Trump himself.

Ron DeSantis just kissed the ring, Mr Trumps niece, Mary Trump, wrote on X.

Podcaster Julie Roginsky predicted Mr DeSantiss endorsement of Mr Trump, writing on 15 January: Pin this tweet for when DeSantis drops, immediately kisses Trumps ring and basks in the glow of Trumps approval.

Guess who just kissed the ring on his way out.they are all pathetic, comedian Dana Goldberg added.

Former GOP senate staffer Amanda Carpenter wrote on 15 January, There needs to be a word or phrase to describe how candidates, mostly out of frustration, finally get honest when its too late, in reference to Mr DeSantiss pre-Iowa comments about Mr Trump.

Democratic strategist Joe Trippi noted: As DeSantis exit proves no one leaves the race because they cant win. They leave the race because they are out of money. Whatever the result in NH there is only one knockout blow - running out of money.

Former MSNBC host Mehdi Hasan added: Trump called Ted Cruzs wife ugly & his dad a murderer. Cruz endorsed him. Trump suggested Ron DeSantis groomed high school kids. DeSantis endorsed him. Next up: Trump mocked Nikki Haleys Indian first name & questioned her eligibility for President. You know whats coming.

Mr DeSantis dropped out of the race on Sunday after failing to convince Republican primary voters that it was time to move on from Mr Trump, endorsing the former president on his way out.

The Florida governor, 45, appeared at the beginning of the race to be the top challenger to Mr Trump after having won re-election in the Sunshine State in a landslide.

But some, such as former GOP strategist and Lincoln Project co-founder Rick Wilson, always saw his campaign as a doomed effort.

I said as early as in the spring of 2021 that Ron DeSantis was the most overpriced stock in American politics, he told The Independent late last year. He didnt win in Florida by some magical gift of his own, he inherited the best Republican machine in the country  it elected him, he didnt win  he was hustled in there on the backs of 30 years of Republican dominance in the state and an infinite amount of money.

Calling Mr DeSantis the opposite of political charisma, Mr Wilson added that the initial idea of Ron DeSantis being a great campaigner was rapidly put to the test and discovered to be a lie.

Weeks before the end of the DeSantis campaign, Mr Wilson said the governor is without a question, the worst-performing, best-funded primary candidate Ive seen in a long time.
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A divided US Supreme Court has issued an order that will allow the US Border Patrol to resume removal of razor wire and other barriers which Texas state authorities erected to prevent migrants from entering the United States while a lawsuit between the Department of Homeland Security and the Lone Star State continues before lower courts.

The one-page order, which was approved by Chief Justice John Roberts and Associate Justices Amy Coney Barrett, Sonya Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, lifts an injunction imposed by the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which barred federal authorities from removing the dangerous obstacles.

It also states that Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh would have denied the federal governments request to lift the Fifth Circuit order, which was imposed as part of a lawsuit brought by the Department of Homeland Security over Texas Governor Greg Abbotts policy of having state law enforcement and national guard personnel under his command erect various obstacles to prevent migrants from crossing into American territory to be met and processed by US Border Patrol officers.

The 5-4 court ruling Is a major victory for the Biden administration, which has argued that Mr Abbotts use of physical barriers along the US-Mexico border is an unlawful usurpation of federal authority to enforce immigration laws, and in one instance of Mr Abbotts use of floating barriers along the Rio Grande river, violated a centuries-old treaty between the US and Mexico.
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South Carolina Sen Tim Scott has proposed to his girlfriend, putting an end to the speculation around his love life.

She said YES, the failed presidential candidate wrote on X on 21 January. Mindy, thank you for making me the luckiest man in the world.

Mr Scott posted two photos with himself and his fiance Mindy Noce, an interior designer and a mother of three from Charleston, on the beach.

In November, Mr Scott introduced Ms Noce after a GOP debate in November, when he told reporters that the pair had been dating for about a year.

As a guy who is mostly an introvert and on the quiet side, having to have a conversation about the engagement is a little, you know, uncomfortable in a way, but its the most exciting thing Ill do with my life besides making Jesus my Lord, Mr Scott told the Washington Post after his successful proposal.

They met at church, the South Carolina lawmaker told the outlet: In our first conversation that went about an hour and a half or two, we ended up deciding to do a Bible study together.

The Post reported that Mr Scott asked for Ms Noces parents blessing two weeks before Christmas.

Ive been very patient and prayerful, and Im really excited and somewhat nervous, and I couldnt be more thankful for having found a soul mate and someone who shares a lot of the same interests, passions and goals that I do, he continued.

The South Carolina Republicans relationship status was the focus of some donors concerns during his presidential campaign. He tried to put donors fears aside in September, announcing that he was in a wonderful relationship with a smart Christian woman.

Last Friday, Mr Scott endorsed Donald Trump for president. After months of competing with Mr Trump for the 2024 GOP nomination, Mr Scott tweeted, We need a president who will close our southern border. We need a president today who will stop the crime in the streets. We need Donald Trump!
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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.
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This past weekend, Donald Trumps absolute dominance of the Republican Party was solidified. Within the span of a couple of days, Mr Trump earned the endorsement of fellow presidential candidates Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, whom he perpetually demeaned.

Mr DeSantiss decision to exit the race will likely hurt former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Many of his supporters will likely flock to Mr Trump, therefore widening Mr Trumps expected margin of victory on Tuesday 23 January. Mr Scotts endorsement adds another body blow to Ms Haley, given that back in 2012, she was the one who nominated him to fill South Carolinas open Senate seat, catapulting him to national fame.

On Monday, Congresswoman Nancy Mace of South Carolina also announced that she would endorse Mr Trump. Thats the same Ms Mace who said, after 6 January 2021, that Mr Trumps entire legacy was wiped out yesterday. Not only that, but Mr Trump endorsed her primary opponent in 2022. And she and Ms Haley are both Republican women from South Carolina. The significance of Ms Maces endorsement, therefore, cant be overstated.

The avalanche of endorsements Mr Trump received after his devastating victory in the Iowa caucuses shows that Republican elites have acknowledged what everyone else already knew but would not dare to say: the Republican presidential primary is essentially over. Its the Trump party now.

Primary contests often end before candidates secure the sufficient amount of delegates. Joe Biden all but won the Democratic nomination after winning the South Carolina primary in 2020. That led to a similar cascade of endorsements, because Democratic lawmakers knew he would win in the multiple Southern states where the majority of Democratic voters were Black, on Super Tuesday. John McCains victory in New Hampshire put him on a glide path to winning the Republican nomination, given that he beat Mitt Romney from neighboring Massachusetts.

Essentially, party elites need permission to get behind the person they see as the frontunner.

Many Republican lawmakers said they would support but not endorse Mr Trump in 2016 because he won a more split field that allowed him to clinch the nomination without a majority. That meant they did not know the depth of his support within the GOP electorate. Many assumed he would lose the general election. As a result, they did not want to tie themselves to someone who might damage their own prospects.

Those fears no longer exist. Mr Trump cleared a majority in Iowa and could potentially do so in New Hampshire. Most Republican voters have an almost fanatical devotion to Mr Trump and the fact he won the presidency once, narrowly lost it in 2020 and now largely leads Mr Biden in many polls in multiple swing states means he feels like a much safer bet.

Even Republican elected officials who do not particularly like Mr Trump will likely get behind him in the coming weeks to maintain some future political viability.

Of course, Ms Haley could easily argue that posting a better-than-expected performance in New Hampshire allows her to survive and advance to her home states primary. But that only sets her up for a humiliating defeat in South Carolina and damages her future prospects, to say nothing about her serving in a hypothetical future Trump administration.

No bigger evidence exists of the general elections commencement than the Biden campaigns words. Over the weekend  to commemorate the anniversary of Roe v Wade  Mr Bidens campaign released an ad featuring a female doctor in Texas talking about how she could not terminate a pregnancy of a fetus with a fatal condition. The ad firmly places the blame for the womans plight on Mr Trump, who has bragged repeatedly about nominating the Supreme Court justices who killed Roe v Wade.

Conversely, the Biden campaign only mentions Nikki Haley in the context of Mr Trump mixing her up with former House speaker Nancy Pelosi. Obviously, that is meant to draw attention to Mr Trumps frequently nonsensical ramblings.

On Monday, Ms Haley went on conservative talk host Hugh Hewitts show to say a vote for Joe Biden is a vote for Kamala Harris. Yet the vice-president, who has sought to rehabilitate her image and who regularly criticised Mr DeSantis last year, has felt little need to respond to Ms Haley.

Both Mr Bidens focus on and the Republican establishments coalescing around Mr Trump shows that the primary contest is all but unofficially over. Now is the time for Washington to brace itself for the long slog of an 11-month general election.
A recent report finds the federal government is spending billions on crop failures caused by extreme weather -- and its only growing more expensive.

Crop insurance payouts surpassed $118 billion between 2001 and 2022 nationally for damage caused by extreme weather such as drought, heat and floods. The report by the advocacy organization Environmental Working Group points to climate changes increasing impacts to agriculture.

The findings follow a tumultuous growing season, wrought with extreme drought ravaging the Midwest and much of the surrounding Mississippi River basin. Dry conditions are often bookended by increased precipitation and flooding -- a trend the basin may see more of due to climate change. As harvests draw to a close, many farmers will look to the federal government for support.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees the federal crop insurance program, a public-private partnership that offers farmers financial protection against crop losses or revenue declines. Farmers pay premiums to get insured, of which taxpayers subsidize around two-thirds on average. Producers are then paid indemnities to recoup their losses.

Causes of crop loss include disease, drops in crop prices and adverse weather conditions. Over the last two decades, the top five weather-related causes of crop loss were drought, excess moisture and precipitation, hail, heat and freeze, found EWG report author and Midwest director Anne Schechinger, who is also an agricultural economist.

These payments have already increased over time, in part due to climate change, Schechinger said. And we know that the climate crisis is going to lead to larger payments in the future.

The amount of money shelled out for each type of disaster more than doubled from 2001 to 2022.

Payouts for heat-related crop failures, for example, increased by more than a thousand percent from $142.5 million in 2001 to $1.6 billion in 2022 -- the largest jump of all categories. Drought-related indemnities came with the most expensive price tag in 2022: $7.6 billion, a 690% increase from 2001 payments. Excess moisture, hail and freeze indemnities followed.

More farmers are signing up for crop insurance, and some crop prices have increased, which has contributed to the rise in crop insurance payouts over time, Schechinger said. But climate change has also proven to have an outsized impact: higher temperatures alone have increased U.S. crop insurance losses by $27 billion since the 1990s, according to a 2021 Stanford University study.

Corn and soybeans are among the biggest crops in the United States, and corn farmers claimed the most losses due to excess moisture, at $15.7 billion nationally, along with hail payments, at $2.5 billion. Most corn is used for ethanol or livestock feed. Soybean farmers received $8.4 billion in excess moisture payments. Wheat growers received $2.2 billion in hail payments.

EWG also mapped how the indemnities were distributed across the U.S. down to the county level. Mississippi River basin states claimed huge losses, particularly those in the Midwest and the Great Plains.

The most expensive cause of crop loss nationally was drought at $56.6 billion. Aside from Texas, which received the most in indemnities, the top-10 states are all in the Mississippi River basin. They also saw extreme rainfall: Minnesota, the Dakotas, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri make up the top six states for excess moisture payouts.

Hail payments were largely concentrated in the Great Plains and Montana, with smaller pockets in Iowa and Minnesota. Indemnities related to heat and freeze were concentrated in California, Texas, Kansas and Washington.

Mapping distribution of crop insurance payments also revealed local hotspots, Schechinger found. Payments for excess moisture were concentrated in communities along the Mississippi River, particularly those along the southern portion in Arkansas and Louisiana.

Its not just the states like California or Iowa that have the most agriculture getting payments, Schechinger said. There are really these specific weather-related causes of loss that are affecting farmers in certain parts of the country, and less so in other parts of the country.

To Chad Hart, an economics professor and crop markets specialist at Iowa State University, the top five weather-related causes of crop payments arent surprising.

Drought, excess moisture, hail, freeze and heat have been plaguing farm fields since the federal crop insurance program was created in the 1930s. The share of weather-related causes of loss has actually dropped since the 20th century as crop insurance has expanded to protect against more factors, like falling crop prices.

Whats novel is the exponential growth in crop insurance payouts for disasters over the past few decades, like the hefty increases in indemnities for heat, drought and freezes shown in the EWG report, Hart said.

The rates of growth in the payouts from these disasters is growing faster than the overall pace of crop insurance indemnities, he said. We do seem to be getting more extreme (climate change) impacts because were paying out relatively more (payouts) over the past couple of decades.

Schechinger argues the federal crop insurance system is flawed. She said that by its very nature, the program discourages farmers from adapting to climate change.

Farmers may be willing to take more risks -- like farming on land vulnerable to climate change, such as floodplains along the Mississippi River -- because their losses are subsidized. They may not understand how much risk their properties have, and they may not be willing to reduce their risks since their losses will be covered.

In the 2023 Farm Bill, the EWG is calling for climate change to be considered in crop insurance calculations. The USDA could integrate future weather or yield forecasts, for example, instead of basing rates on historical yields -- which could be tricky to make equitable, Hart said. The organization is also calling for lower subsidies for those farming on high-risk lands more vulnerable to climate change.

This program, while its highly subsidized by taxpayers, is also paid for by farmers. So when we see the indemnities going up, thats not just costing taxpayers more money. Its also costing farmers more money, Schechinger said. I think we really need to be doing work now to encourage farmers to adapt because that could help decrease costs in the future.
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Australia has ended its so-called golden visa scheme, which granted those who invested more than AU$5m (2.6m) into the country the chance for permanent residency.

Thousands of Significant Investor Visas (SIVs) have been granted since 2012, but critics say that while they benefit wealthy individuals, they provide little for the Australian economy,

It has been obvious for years that this visa is not delivering what our country and economy needs, minister for home affairs Clare ONeil said in a statement on Monday.

Instead, Australia will issue more skilled workers visas, the government said.

In recent months, the criticism of the scheme grew louder in the country with the government aiming to overhaul what it called a broken migration system.

A review in 2016 showed that the policy had potential for money laundering and other nefarious activities.

The Grattan Institute, an Australian public policy think tank, said granting visas to wealthy investors was leading to projects being financed that wouldnt normally be, and that holders provide relatively little tax income for the government.

They tend to be aged over 45, with limited English language skills, and cost AU$120,000 more in public services than they pay in taxes over their lifetimes, the institute said in a report last year, citing calculations from the Australian Treasury. According to government data, 85 per cent of successful applicants for the SIV came from China.

Last month, the Australian government said that it would tighten visa rules for international students and low-skilled workers, which could halve its migrant intake over the next two years.

Several government reviews showed the scheme was not serving its intended purpose, according to officials. One review showed that skilled migrants contributed A$300,000 more to the Australian economy over their lifetime than those who bought their way into the country through the golden visa. One government review said the visas were bringing people into Australia with less business acumen than would have otherwise arrived, while offering tax concessions that were costing the public.

Last month, in a policy document, the Australian government announced it would be scrapping the scheme and focusing instead on creating more visas for skilled migrants capable of making outsized contributions to Australia.

Several countries are reviewing visa schemes which allow wealthy investors quick residence. The UK axed its fast-track visa services for rich investors in 2022 after concerns grew over Russian money coming into the country.
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An Australian bikini brand has hit back at criticism over its decision to use a male model to advertise womens swimwear.

Moana Bikini shared a video on Instagram of male model Jake Young showing off the white one-piece around a pool on Friday.

The brand, which was founded in 2011 by body-positive influencer Karina Irby, said it was obsessed with this look and urged customers to buy the 80 piece.

However, it was soon forced to defend itself from criticism as social media users said they were done with the brand because of its model choice.

The brand has stood behind their inclusive post and hit back at upset social media users (Moana Bikini)

One wrote online: Is that a man? I thought you were about empowering women?

Another commented on the post, which has over 500,000 views: Horrible marketing. Why is it everyone is trying so hard to be woke The model is gorgeous but this is not it.

However, the company doubled down on the advert, replying: If Jake in our bikini upsets you that much we feel as though this may be a you problem.

The model himself also hit back at the negative comments, writing: There are many different types of women. Women with different anatomy to what you consider normal.

I am not a woman nor have I ever claimed to be. This post is simply empowering a minority & Im forever grateful for that. Your hate is a reflection of your own insecurities, not mine. Thank you @moana_bikini

The model wrote: This post is simply empowering a minority & Im forever grateful for that (Moana Bikini)

Other customers also rushed to praise the advert, with one writing: People are really hiding their true colours behind their this is a womens brand designed to empower women comments.

We see plenty of women in Moana swimwear and showcasing an incredible man wearing a piece of literal CLOTHING does not take the empowerment away from women.

Good on you, team - empowerment can be extended to everyone without taking from anyone.

Another echoed this, saying: These comments are weird. The bathing suits are for anyone who wants to wear them. Why does someone in a bathing suit bother you so much the bathing suits are for anyone who wants to wear them?

The Independent has contacted Moana for comment but a spokesperson re-affirmed its position to Mail Online saying: Moana Bikini are - and have always been - one of the most inclusive and empowering brands in existence.

This is not only in terms of our size and style range for women but - most importantly - in our love and acceptance of all races, ethnicities, body shapes and sizes, genders and sexual orientations. This hasnt changed and never will change.
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Tech and Tesla billionaire Elon Musk is due to take part in an online antisemitism panel next week and visit the death camp Auschwitz, months after he faced criticism for endorsing a Jewish conspiracy theory on his social media site X.

Musk faced accusations of antisemitism in November when he replied, You have said the actual truth to a post on X that made the false claim that Jewish communities push hatred against white people.

Elon Musk is due to visit the Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz (AP)

The White House immediately condemned his comments, while Musk was scolded by President Isaac Herzog during a trip to Israel. Musk said the endorsement was a mistake, describing it as one of the most foolish things he had done on the platform.

He is now reported to be going on a two-day trip to Poland to begin on Monday, just one week before International Holocaust Remembrance Day on 27 January, which commemorates the six million Jewish people killed by Adolf Hitlers Nazi party.

He is also taking part in a panel discussion with political commentator Ben Shapiro (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

The visit has been organised by the European Jewish Association to raise awareness of the surge in antisemitism since Israels invasion of Gaza in retaliation for the Hamas attacks on 7 October.

Polish deputy foreign minister Andrzej Szejna said Everyone acknowledges what a great threat nationalism, populism, racism, and all manifestations of xenophobia and hatred are to democracy, human rights and the EU.

I think this is probably the reason why Mr Musk is among the invited guests who have confirmed their presence.

Musk has also publicly criticised the Anti-Defamation League, another organisation tackling antisemitism, with their spokesperson adding that the entrepreneur would benefit from the visit.

Anyone who has the opportunity to bear witness to the atrocities that took place in Auschwitz-Birkenau should go, Todd Gutnick, from the group, said. Auschwitz serves as the ultimate reminder of what can happen when a society or its leaders are consumed with antisemitism.

He will be joined on the panel by conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro, who has been outspoken in his support for Israel.
 Close Moment Russian plane carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war appears to crash

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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.
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Ukraine has denied responsibility for the deaths of 27 people due to heavy shelling in a market in Russia-held Donetsk.

At least 27 people were killed and 25 others were injured in the shelling, according to the Russia-appointed head of the occupied Donetsk region Denis Pushilin, who blamed the attack on Ukrainian forces.

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky did not directly address who was behind the strike on Donetsk city in his nightly video address, but called the fighting in the region particularly severe as he described the targets of Russian shelling.

On this day alone, Russian savages shelled more than a hundred cities, towns, and our Ukrainian villages in nine regions: from Chernihiv and Sumy to Mykolaiv and Kirovohrad. The most brutal Russian attacks were in Donetsk region. Unfortunately, there are wounded and dead, he said.

The citys Russia-installed mayor Alexei Kulemzin accused Ukrainian forces of bombarding a busy area where shops and markets were located.

However, Ukraines forces operating in the southern zone Tavria said that soldiers under its command were not responsible.

Russians are spreading information about a strike on the market in Donetsk. We responsibly declare that the forces under the control of the Tavria military unit did not engage in combat operations in this case, it said in a statement on Facebook, proclaiming that Donetsk is Ukraine.

Russia will have to be held accountable for the lives of Ukrainians that were taken," the defence forces in Tavria said.

Mr Pushilin announced a day of mourning in the Donetsk Peoples Republic, the name used by Russia to refer to the region after annexing it.

Photos and videos of the shelling attack showed widespread destruction and bereaved people crying as some of them said they had lost relatives. Other photos showed dead bodies on blood-soaked snow near one of the citys markets. These reports were carried by Russian media and could not be independently verified.

Mr Zelensky said: Russia will be held accountable for all this terror  it must be. If it hadnt been for Moscows decisions to start this aggression and this terror, thousands and thousands of people would be alive today.

Russias foreign ministry said the attack was "a barbaric act of terrorism" by Ukraine that was carried out "with the use of weapons supplied by the West".

"The Russian side categorically condemns this treacherous strike against the civilian population," a ministry statement said.

Located to the southeast of Ukraine near the border shared with Russia, the separatist-held Donetsk region is one of four territories claimed by Russia. Its attempt to annex the region was termed illegal by most countries at the UN General Assembly in 2022 after Vladimir Putins forces staged a deeply flawed referendum in the occupied territories.
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Family members of Israelis held hostage in Gaza have stormed a committee meeting in Israels parliament to demand the government steps up efforts to bring their loved ones home.

In chaotic scenes inside the Knesset, one protester cried: Just one I'd like to get back alive  one out of three. Others carried placards saying You will not sit here while they die there. One Knesset member was seen with her head in her hands, while others tried to calm the situation.

The incident adds to the pressure on Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has insisted that keeping up the military campaign against Hamas inside Gaza is the only way to bring the hostages home. At the same time, he has rejected a push from the US as to what comes after the end of the conflict, saying he will never allow a Palestinian state.

We did it out of frustration and a feeling that the kidnapped are being given up, Aviram Meir, who stormed the meeting alongside around 20 others, told The Independent. His 22-year-old nephew, Almog Meir-Jan, remains a captive inside Gaza.

The Hamas attack inside Israel on 7 October killed 1,200, with around 240 hostages taken back into Gaza. Israel has vowed to eradicate Hamas and has launched airstrikes and ground operations inside the Hamas-controlled territory, backed up by a blockade. More than 100 Israelis and other nationals were released in return for 240 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli prisons as part of a week-long truce at the end of November.

Fighting has intensified in southern Gaza in recent days, particularly in the city of Khan Younis, while health officials in Gaza say 25,000 people, most of them civilians, have been killed across more than three months of conflict. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said it had lost all contact with its staff inside the citys al-Amal hospital, adding that tanks had surrounded the al-Khair hospital.

Aviram Meir, who stormed the committee meeting at Israels parliament alongside around 20 others (Tom Bennett)

The storming of the Knesset committee is one of the most drastic steps taken by a number of the relatives of those held in Gaza to date. They are stepping up the campaign, said former Israeli hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin, who helped in the release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit in 2011 after five years held by Palestinian militants in Gaza. But theyre not united with all of the families. There are those who dont want to make more noise.

The pressure on Mr Netanyahu is clear. Over the weekend, thousands took to the streets in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Haifa to demand an election. In Tel Aviv, some protesters briefly blocked a highway.

Just half an hours walk from the Knesset lies one of Mr Netanyahus unofficial residences, where, since Sunday, relatives of those held in Gaza have staged a sit-in protest, camping on the pavement to demand the PM steps up efforts to bring the hostages home. Families have also begun camping outside Mr Netanyahus other home in the coastal town of Caesarea.

We are splitting up because we want to be everywhere. Here, in the Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, in Caesarea. So everyone is everywhere. They will sleep here tonight, and tomorrow, and the next day, until [Netanyahu] decides to do something, Dalit Katzenellenbogen, cousin of Israeli hostage Elad Katzir, told The Independent.

Dalit Katzenellenbogen protests outside Benjamin Netanyahus private residence in Jerusalem on Monday (Tom Bennett)

I don't care that Netanyahu is prime minister, I don't care if its... somebody else on the right or left of the political map. He is now in charge, he is responsible for bringing them back. This is the only goal of his life and the only thing that history will judge him for, said Eyal Kalderon, whose cousin Ofer Kalderon is still being held in Gaza.

As the protest outside his residence took place, Mr Netanyahu met with another group of hostage families. The PMs office said Mr Netanyahu told the families that contrary to reports of growing consensus on a ceasefire agreement, there is no real proposal by Hamas. Its not true.

I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you, the prime minister said.

Yet his comments appeared to go against his own statement on Sunday, in which he suggested that Hamas had offered to release the hostages in return for the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza and leaving Hamas intact. He said he had rejected the proposal, continuing: If we agree to this, our soldiers fell in vain. If we agree to this, we will not be able to guarantee the security of our citizens.

Yossi Mekelberg, an associate fellow at Chatham Houses Middle East and North Africa Programme, said: The families know that unless there is pressure to release prisoners and hostages, they might never see their loved ones alive. And whatever Netanyahu says, I dont believe its his number one priority.

Mr Mekelberg added that Mr Netanyahu needs a victory in Gaza or at least a photo opportunity of a victory  and three and a half months later, there is none.
Few in the region were surprised by comments from Saudi Arabias foreign minister, who told CNN that the Gulf nation wont normalise ties with Israel unless an agreement is reached over a credible path to a Palestinian state.

But the statement is of particular note given that just weeks prior to the war, Israel and Riyadh had been at the cusp  in the words of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu  of a landmark normalisation agreement. The proposed deal would have seen Riyadh receive US security guarantees, aid in establishing a civilian nuclear programme, and progress toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

For the moment, however, the prospect of such a deal seems some way off. The war changes so much, Yossi Mekelberg, an associate fellow at Chatham Houses Middle East and North Africa Programme, told The Independent. We are in a different situation altogether.
 Close Biden and Sunak spoke about Red Sea attacks, Gaza on phone call, according to White House

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Houthi rebels have vowed that the latest round of US and UK strikes against them in Yemen will no go unanswered - as their allies Hamas killed nearly two dozen Israeli soldiers in Gaza.

The US launched their eighth attack on Houthi positions in western Yemen overnight, firing up to 30 munitions. UK defence secretary Grant Shapps said four Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoons were involved in the strikes.

Mohammad Ali al-Houthi, head of the Houthis supreme revolutionary committee wrote on X, after the joint strikes by the US and the UK: Trust well that every operation and every aggression against our country will not be without a response.

It comes as 21 soldiers have been killed in the Gaza Strip in the deadliest attack on Israels forces since the 7 October Hamas raid that triggered the war, the military has said.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu mourned the soldiers but vowed to press ahead with the offensive until "absolute victory" over Hamas was achieved.

The soldiers were killed after a militant fired a rocket-propelled grenade at a tank stationed next to two buildings being prepared for demolition. The area was packed with explosives.
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Japan has confirmed the problem with its doomed Moon lander  but hopes it still might be able to rescue it.

The countrys Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, or SLIM, arrived on the Moon on Friday. It made Japan just the fifth ever country to achieve a soft landing on on the lunar surface.

Immediately, however, space agency JAXA said that it was unable to confirm the status of the lander. It cut its live stream without giving any information.

Later, it announced that SLIM had run into technical problems and was not generating power. The space agency said it believed the landing had been a success but that it would not be able to keep working.

Now the space agency has said that it shut down the lander nearly three hours after it touched down. After it sent back data on its landing, the space agency remotely turned it off.

SLIM appears to have landed at the wrong angle, meaning that its solar panels were not able to catch the Sun, the space agency said.

But they hope that it will be able to come back online, if its solar panels catch the Sun in the right way.

According to the telemetry data, SLIMs solar cells are facing west. So if sunlight begins to shine on the lunar surface from the west, there is a possibility of generating power, and we are preparing for recovery, JAXA said in a statement.

SLIM can operate with power only from the solar cells.

De-activating the lander after arrived on the Moon ensured that there was still some power in the batteries, making a restart more likely, it said.
For years, one family has been in a continuous back and forth with local officials regarding the building of a bridge on their ranch in the western North Dakota Badlands. On Monday, the case will be heard in federal court.

Members of the family that owns the Short Ranch filed the lawsuit against Billings County and its commissioners in August. The family alleges a breach of contract and an improper use of eminent domain in the countys actions pertaining to the project. Eminent domain is the taking of private land for public use with just compensation.

Lawyers for the family told the Tribune they are seeking a court injunction that would stop the county from building the bridge until the lawsuit is decided.

Vogel Law Firm attorney Tami Norgard, representing Billings County, said the county is seeking to get the case dismissed.

U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor will hear arguments in U.S. District Court in Bismarck.

Longstanding dispute

Billings County has been seeking to build a bridge across the Little Missouri River for at least two decades, saying it's needed for emergency services, commerce, recreation and public travel.

The Short family calls into question whether the bridge would be for public use. In legal documents they argue it would primarily benefit oil companies, and said that these needs can be met by building the bridge elsewhere.

Norgard pointed to fires, emergencies, road maintenance and other incidents that she said supported public officials' calls for better transportation across the river.

"The location of the fire in 2021 was, fortunately, near a bridge," she said. "Emergency services personnel have provided statements of the dire consequences if a fire jumped the river further north where it is 85 miles to get around the river where there is no bridge."

Lawyers for the Shorts in comments to the Tribune highlighted a National Public Radio article from 2012 which details discussions of a bridge across the river but only mentions commercial benefits.

"That talking point and discussion changed over the years ... the idea that this bridge is needed for emergency services or something like that, that came up well after this whole effort was underway," said Derrick Braaten, an attorney representing the Shorts.

Norgard said even if the bridge mostly benefited commerce relating to the oil industry, it would still be public use.

"A road is a public use," she said.

Current bridges over the Little Missouri are at Medora on Interstate 94 and south of Watford City on U.S. Highway 85 -- the distance between the two is around 70 miles. There are 18 unimproved private fords and one unimproved public ford that are used by some vehicles to cross the river, according to a past environmental impact statement done for the potential construction of the bridge. That study was in accordance with the National Environmental Protection Act, which is required for building anything that requires federal approvals.

After the completion of the EIS in 2019, the Shorts filed a lawsuit against the Federal Highway Administration, the agency that conducted the study, and also sued the County Commission when it intervened in the FHWA suit in 2020.

Commissioners voted 2-1 to not use eminent domain for the project in 2021. They also entered into an agreement with the Short family to not use eminent domain on their property for the bridge in exchange for the Shorts dropping their lawsuits.

The deciding vote on using eminent domain for the bridge was flipped after then-County Commissioner Mike Kasian lost his seat on the board to Commissioner Steven Klym in 2022.

Last spring, the county offered easement payments to the Shorts to build a bridge on their land and then in August it filed eminent domain proceedings through a process called "quick take," which allows the government to acquire private land for public use then deal with the proceedings later. Those cases are also being challenged by the Shorts, in state court.

Lawyers for the Shorts argue the county's move represents a breach of contract and the county's "bad faith" in pursuing eminent domain to construct the bridge.

Norgard argued the law prevents a current commission from negotiating away a future commission's ability to use its sovereign governmental powers such as eminent domain.

"That was made very clear to the county and the Short family during the settlement," she said.

Lawyers for the Shorts say this contract did not sign the future commission's rights to eminent domain away.

"They entered a contract ... they said not, 'We'll never use eminent domain,' they said, 'We won't use eminent domain for this project on these parcels of land,'" said attorney Tim Purdon, who also represents the Shorts.

No work has been done yet on the bridge.
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Tens of thousands of travellers have woken up where they did not expect to be after hundreds of cancellations of planes, trains and ferries.

They include a planeload of passengers from Edinburgh to Bristol who are currently in Paris  some of them sleeping in the airport terminal because French immigration officials would not let them access hotels without passports.

On Monday, millions of commuters across the UK faced rush-hour chaos on the railways, high seas and in the air as the disruption caused by Storm Isha continued.

These are the main issues in the latest bout of travel chaos.

What were the key problems on Sunday?

Flights were spectacularly disrupted, causing stress and upset for thousands of passengers. There were hundreds of cancellations at UK airports, and dozens of diversions of incoming planes  with Ryanair passengers on what is normally a half-hour hop from Manchester to Dublin ending up in Beauvais in northern France.

An easyJet domestic flight from Edinburgh to Bristol diverting to Paris. That was a big problem for the passengers who were not carrying passports  or national ID cards  because they couldnt leave the terminal and be placed in a hotel. An easyJet spokesperson said: Some customers not carrying a passport have been required by the French authorities to remain in the airport and so we are working with the airport to make them as comfortable as possible.

While the circumstances are outside of our control, we are very sorry for the inconvenience caused as a result of the weather.

David Gibbs, an easyJet passenger on a Zurich-London Gatwick flight that diverted to Paris CDG, said: We tried to land at Gatwick twice. We ended up in Paris CDG at 1am, and we promised hotels and food vouchers by easyJet.

I can safely say along with many others we have not been given anything. As we disembarked and ended up at the check-in desks we found ground crew with no leadership or communication to hundreds of diverted passengers.

We were giving new boarding passes on the app but these would not work and allow us to reach after airside security and we had to force our way back to the check-in desks to get new printed passes.

The Independent has asked easyJet for a response to Mr Gibbs claims.

What about the railways?

In terms of the sheer number of travellers affected, rail passengers were worst hit on Sunday. What began mainly with warnings about speed restrictions quickly unravelled into mass cancellations  notably in Scotland, where no trains departed after 7pm. Speed restrictions extended journey times in most of the rest of the UK, with most rail firms ending up urging passengers not to attempt to travel.

On Monday, Scotland is the area of most concern. All rush-hour trains were cancelled for track inspections  with Network Rail staff looking for debris that has been blown onto tracks.

ScotRail is telling passengers: Following severe weather, ScotRail remain suspended across most of their network while engineers inspect the lines for any damage. Disruption is expected until the end of the day. Checks have been made on the following routes, allowing trains to run:

Edinburgh - Bathgate

Edinburgh - North Berwick

Edinburgh - Tweedbank

Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal

Glasgow Central - Barrhead

Glasgow Central - Largs

No rail replacement transport is in place for the cancelled services across the rest of the ScotRail network.

Scotlands railway will be shut down entirely for the second time in three days from 7pm on Tuesday, ahead of Storm Jocelyn.

Network Rail Scotland said: Given the extraordinary number of incidents caused by the ferocity of Storm Isha, and the likelihood of more damage to our railway as Storm Jocelyn follows so closely behind, weve taken the decision to shut down all passenger and freight services from 7pm tomorrow [Tuesday].

Trains that are still running at 7pm will complete their journey at a reduced speed.

The organisation said: Lines will remain closed on Wednesday morning until our engineers inspect tracks for damage and fallen trees or debris.

This means services will start up later, like today [Monday].

Our Integrated Control team has taken this decision to keep passengers and our people safe. Were working with our train operators now on the details of this plan, and well share more information as soon as we can.

Cross-border trains are now running after damage to overhead electric wires between Dunbar and Edinburgh. But LNER, the main operator on the East Coast main line, is cancelling some trains  including the 6pm from London to the Scottish capital  because of severe weather.

Across England and Wales, there are dozens of problems, with commuters and some airline passengers to and from Gatwick stranded earlier due to overrunning engineering work.

Northern Trains has issued a Do Not Travel notice for lines from Carlisle to both Skipton and Barrow-in-Furness are blocked due to heavy rain flooding the railway. The message from Northern is: Road transport will not be provided.

Southern warns of multiple trees on the line between Redhill and Tonbridge. The link between Surrey and Kent has been closed until further notice.

Southeastern is warning of disruption on the main line through north Kent following a trampoline on the track at Rainham and a tree on the line at Teynham earlier this morning.

Commuters in London are facing days of disruption due to a derailed engineering train  unrelated to the extreme weather.

The train came off the rails during planned engineering work between Shepherds Bush and Wembley Central at the weekend. The location has closed the key London Overground route between Clapham Junction  the busiest station in Britain measured by train numbers  and Stratford in east London.

The derailment damaged points and overhead electric power lines. Repairs are expected to continue until the start of services on Wednesday 24 January.

A shuttle train service is operating between Shepherds Bush and Clapham Junction, National Rail says.

Whats happening in the skies?

Planes, pilots and passengers in lots of unexpected places spells a tricky start to the working week. There are dozens of cancellations, for example at Heathrow where early flights to Halifax in Canada, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Brussels and Amsterdam are grounded because the planes couldnt get in last night.

British Airways has so far grounded 22 short-haul flights to and from Heathrow: 14 arrivals and eight departures. To and from London City airport, 22 flights in total are grounded.

A spokesperson for BA said: Like other airlines, we have had to make schedule adjustments due to the adverse weather conditions across the UK and Europe caused by Storm Isha. Weve apologised to our customers for the disruption to their travel plans and our teams are working hard to get them on their way as quickly as possible.

The airline is deploying bigger planes on some routes to allow disrupted passengers to travel.

Other badly hit airports include Edinburgh, where the early flights to Amsterdam, Frankfurt and no fewer than four British Airways departures to London were grounded.

It was similar picture at Glasgow. A couple of Loganair flights from Orkney to Aberdeen and to Edinburgh were cancelled. But other key airports that were badly affected on Sunday, including Belfast International and Gatwick, are looking much better this morning. Dublin airport stands out for having the highest number of cancellations.

What are passengers rights?

Airlines must provide onward transport as soon as possible, and hotels and meals while you are waiting. No cash compensation is payable, though, as the extreme weather counts as extraordinary circumstances.

Even if the carrier is not to blame for the cancellation, it has a strict and unlimited obligation to get the passenger to their destination as soon as possible, even if it costs hundreds of pounds. While the traveller is waiting, all meals must be provided  along with hotel accommodation as necessary, with no cap on the cost of a room.

Unfortunately, if no hotel is available  or, as in the case of easyJet passengers in Paris without passports, you cannot access it  there is no further obligation on the airline.

Have the ferries resumed normal service?

Far from it. There were widespread cancellations on ferries from the Western Isles to the English Channel from Sunday lunchtime onwards.

These have continued, with no Caledonian MacBrayne sailings on many routes including from Arran to Ardrossan; Oban to Barra, Coll and Tiree; Wemyss Bay to Bute; Largs to Cumbrae; Kennacraig to Islay; and all services from Mallaig.

Northlink cancelled some Orkney-mainland Scotland services in the morning; this afternoons and evenings sailinge between Scrabster and Stromness are under review.

On the Irish Sea, the early Irish Ferries sailing on Monday morning from Holyhead to Dublin was cancelled.

Between Dover and northern France, the port authorities say a gale is blowing and seas are very rough  but after many cancellations and long delays overnight ferries are running more or less normally.
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The dispute between the train drivers union, Aslef, and 14 train operators in England is into its third calendar year.

With no settlement in sight to the long and bitter row over pay and working arrangements, the union has begun its first strikes for 2024.

Train drivers belonging to Aslef are stopping work region-by-region over the course of a week between Tuesday 30 January and Monday 5 February. Thousands of trains will be cancelled on each day.

The effect is exacerbated by a nine-day ban on overtime running from 29 January to 6 February.

Mick Whelan, general secretary of Aslef, says some members have not had a pay rise for five years  and ministers have refused to engage with the union for a year.

He told The Independent: Any industrial action is incredibly damaging, but after 18 months out on strike, and after a year with no one in the government or the [train operating] companies talking to us, we are forced to raise the profile of our issues.

Rail minister Huw Merriman told The Independent: Strikes just hold the railway back. We believe a fair and reasonable offer is there on the table for Aslef if they put it to their members.

These are train drivers that paid an average 60,000 for a 35-hour, four-day week, That pay deal would take them up to 65,000.

We hope that they will take the opportunity to take it. Then we can all talk about the positives of rail.

Separately, the 14 train operators have reached a tentative agreement with the RMT union that has put an end to walk-outs while talks continue on a local level. But the RMT has called two 48-hour strikes in February and March on the London Overground.

These are the key questions and answers.

Which rail firms are affected?

Aslef is in dispute with the train operators that are contracted by the government to provide rail services. They are:

Intercity operators:

Avanti West Coast

CrossCountry

East Midlands Railway

Great Western Railway (GWR)

LNER

TransPennine Express

Southeast England commuter operators:

C2C

Greater Anglia

GTR (Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern, Thameslink)

Southeastern

South Western Railway (including the Island Line on the Isle of Wight)

Operators focusing on the Midlands and north of England:

Chiltern Railways

Northern Trains

West Midlands Railway

ScotRail, Transport for Wales, Transport for London (including the Elizabeth Line), Merseyrail and open-access operators such as Grand Central, Hull Trains and Lumo are not involved. But their services are likely to be extremely crowded on stretches where they duplicate strike-hit companies.

What is the strike schedule?

Monday 29 January: overtime ban begins.

Tuesday 30 January: South Western Railway, Southeastern and GTR (Southern, Gatwick Express, Great Northern and Thameslink).

Wednesday 31 January: Northern and TransPennine Express.

Thursday 1 February: no strike but overtime ban continues.

Friday 2 February: Greater Anglia, C2C and LNER.

Saturday 3 February: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast and East Midlands Railway.

Sunday 4 February: no strike but overtime ban continues.

Monday 5 February: Great Western, CrossCountry and Chiltern.

Tuesday 6 February: no strike but overtime ban continues for a final day.

What are the likely effects of the strikes?

These predictions are based on latest statements from rail firms and The Independents observation of previous strikes. They should be confirmed before travel.

Great Northern (30 January): Shuttle service calling at London Kings Cross and Cambridge only (and probably branded Thameslink) with limited operating hours.

Thameslink (30 January): Shuttle service calling at St Pancras, Luton Airport Parkway and Luton only. The firm says its trains will be extremely busy and that queueing systems will be in place.

You may not be able to board your chosen service, says Thameslink. If you are planning to travel on one of the last trains of the day, please be aware that, depending on the size of the queue, you may not be able to board a service at all, and no alternative transport options will be provided after the last train departs. Please plan ahead and leave plenty of time to reach your destination.

Southern (30 January): No trains except a nonstop shuttle service between London Victoria and Gatwick airport, from 6am to 11.30pm.

Gatwick Express (30 January): The Southern airport shuttle, above, is doing the work.

Southeastern (30 January): No trains.

South Western Railway (30 January): The service is relatively extensive compared with other train operators.

Up to four stopping trains per hour between London Waterloo and Woking.

Hourly semi-fast trains between Waterloo and both Guildford and Basingstoke. A shuttle will run from Basingstoke to Salisbury every 90 minutes.

Two trains per hour will also run between Waterloo and Feltham via Richmond and Twickenham. No trains on the Isle of Wight.

Northern (31 January): No trains. The operator says that it expects two key routes to be very busy on 3 February when East Midlands Railway is on strike: Leeds-Sheffield-Nottingham and Sheffield-Manchester.

TransPennine Express (31 January): No trains. There will be some alterations to evening services on Tuesday 30 January and to early morning services on Thursday 1 February, the company says.

C2C (2 February): No trains. The company warns: Upminster car park will likely become full and close early in the day. Upminster is the eastern end of the District Line of the London Underground, which will be running normally.

Greater Anglia (2 February): Limited service linking London Liverpool Street with Norwich, Ipswich and Colchester; Southend Victoria; Cambridge; and Stansted airport.

LNER (2 February): Regular trains on core routes linking London Kings Cross with Doncaster, York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. First trains will depart at around 8am, with most journeys finished by 7pm. Leeds will have a limited direct service, but connections are available from Doncaster.

Avanti West Coast (3 February): No trains. The operator says: Services on the days either side of the strike will also be affected.

East Midlands Railway (3 February): No trains. The train firm warns: No rail replacement bus services will be provided. Other train operators may be running a reduced service due to an overtime ban.

West Midlands Railway (3 February): No trains, and a warning that services on Sunday 4 February will see widespread delays and cancellations.

Chiltern (5 February): No trains either on the strike day or on the previous day, Sunday 4 February, as the train operator is dependent on drivers working overtime on Sunday to operate any trains at all. The overtime ban means no services will run.

CrossCountry (5 February): No trains.

Great Western Railway (5 February): On the actual strike day, a core service will run between London Paddington and Oxford, Bath and Bristol, with a link from Bristol to Cardiff. A limited service on branch lines in Devon and Cornwall. The Night Riviera sleeper service from London to Penzance will not run for a number of nights.

In addition to the disruption on strike days, trains on adjacent days may be affected. Services on these days are also likely to be extremely busy due to passengers moving their journeys to avoid industrial action.

What about the new minimum service levels law?

Legislation now allows the transport secretary to stipulate minimum service levels (MSLs) on strike days amounting to 40 per cent of the normal service. The government says the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023 aims to ensure that the public can continue to access services that they rely on, during strike action.

No train operator is seeking to impose the new law on the train drivers union. LNER said it might do so, and opened consultations, at which point Aslef called a separate five-day strike on LNER alone. Then the train operator said it would not require drivers to work, and the strike was called off.

The BBC reports that the prime minister is disappointed that train operators had not implemented minimum service levels. A Downing Street spokesperson said: Yes, its something that we and the public expect them to use.

Weve been repeatedly been clear that this legislation is available for train operators to use.

The Transport Select Committee has previously warned of potential unintended consequences of the legislation. The Conservative chair, Iain Stewart, said: There is a risk of MSLs worsening worker-employer relations and that, as a result, MSLs could end up making services less reliable.

The minimum service level rules do not apply to union bans on non-contractual rest-day working.

Is there a worst day?

Yes. In terms of sheer number of passengers hit, Tuesday 30 January is the most disruptive. It is aimed at commuters in southeast England, the majority of whom use the affected train operators. Normally Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern, South Western Railway and Southeastern carry around 40 per cent of all passengers.

Intercity travellers will be worst affected on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 February, when the main operators on the East Coast and West Coast main lines, plus the Midland main line, will be hit.

Sunday 4 February is also likely to be severely disrupted mainly because of the ban on rest-day working. Chiltern Railway, which would normally run trains between London and Birmingham, says no services will run at all due to the overtime ban.

Disruption will be heightened by planned engineering work between Birmingham and Wolverhampton on the West Coast main line and between London Kings Cross and Stevenage on the East Coast main line.

What will be the wider impact of the overtime ban?

The overtime ban alone will cause thousands of cancellations. Aslef says no train operator employs enough drivers to provide the service they promise passengers and businesses they will deliver without asking drivers to work their days off.

Sunday is still not part of the working week at a number of train operators, so 4 February will be particularly disrupted by the ban on rest-day working.

GWR says: There will be significant disruption to services and customers should travel on alternative days. No trains will operate on long-distance routes between London Paddington and Bristol, South Wales and Exeter/Plymouth/Penzance.

Several rail firms have announced pre-emptive cancellations due to the previous overtime ban, as follows:

C2C: Severely reduced service at weekends, with many trains also cut on weekdays.

Chiltern: Significantly reduced service on most routes, with no trains at all on some branch lines. Services on all routes will finish earlier than usual. No trains will run on Sunday 4 February.

Gatwick Express: No trains during the overtime ban. Southern trains will link London Victoria and Gatwick airport throughout the industrial action.

London Northwestern Railway/West Midlands Railway: Branch lines between Bletchley and Bedford, Watford Junction and St Albans Abbey, and Leamington Spa and Nuneaton, will be closed on most or all days.

Southern: An amended timetable with fewer services will run. Services may start later and finish earlier than usual.

Thameslink warns: A reduced frequency amended timetable will be in operation.

Some trains may restrict either boarding or leaving trains at certain stations to avoid overcrowding.

What if I need to reach an airport?

London Heathrow will remain accessible at all times on the Heathrow Express, the Elizabeth Line and the Tube.

Passengers using London Gatwick will be significantly affected on the first day of strikes, Tuesday 30 January, when no Gatwick Express nor Thameslink trains will run. But passengers between London and Gatwick will be able to travel on a Southern shuttle service, nonstop between Victoria and the airport. The GWR link from Gatwick to Redhill, Guildford and Reading will run normally on 30 January but not on 5 February.

London Stansted will have an hourly skeleton service from the capital on Tuesday 2 February, with service alterations on all the other days of the overtime ban. The link to Norwich will be axed on 2 February, but CrossCountry trains to Cambridge (and on to Birmingham) will still run. On 5 February, though, no CrossCountry trains will run to Stansted airport or anywhere else.

Luton airport will remain accessible by rail, at least from London, on all days: on the Thameslink strike day, 30 January, Thameslink will have a reduced service from London St Pancras to Luton Airport Parkway. In addition, the East Midlands Railway link will be running. On 3 February, when no East Midlands Railway services are likely to run, Thameslink will be operating.

Southend airport: hourly trains on Friday 2 February with restricted hours.

Southampton airport will not be served by South Western Railway on Tuesday 30 January nor by CrossCountry on Monday 5 February.

Manchester airport will have a drastically reduced rail service on Wednesday 31 January. With Northern and TransPennine Express drivers on strike, there will be only an hourly link on Transport for Wales to and from central Manchester, Chester and North Wales.

Birmingham airport is likely to be inaccessible by rail on Saturday 3 February, except for Transport for Wales from Birmingham New Street.

Will Eurostar be affected?

No. Trains will continue to run as normal between London St Pancras International and Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. But connecting journeys will be difficult on strike days  particularly Tuesday 30 January, when Thameslink and Southeastern are out, and on Saturday 3 February when no East Midlands Railway services are likely to run.

What does Aslef say?

In an exclusive interview with The Independent, Aslef general secretary Mick Whelan said: When we get to February, itll be half a decade without a pay rise. What do we do? Do we do nothing?

The only thing that is going to get us out of this is a clean deal.

Without an agreement, he says: Its going to get messier. Its going to get worse.

What do the rail firms say?

A spokesperson for Rail Delivery Group, representing the train operators, said: There are no winners from these strikes that will unfortunately cause disruption for our customers. We believe rail can have a bright future, but right now taxpayers are contributing an extra 54m a week to keep services running post-Covid.

Aslefs leadership need to recognise the financial challenge facing rail. Drivers have been made an offer which would take base salaries to nearly 65,000 for a four-day week before overtime  that is well above the national average and significantly more than many of our customers that have no option to work from home are paid.

Instead of staging more damaging industrial action, we call on the Aslef leadership to work with us to resolve this dispute and deliver a fair deal which both rewards our people, and makes the changes needed to make services more reliable.What does the government say?

What does the government say?

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: Its very disappointing to see Aslef continuing to target those who travel to work, school or important medical appointments by train.

Aslef is now the only rail union that is continuing to strike while refusing to put a fair and reasonable offer to its members. The offer that remains on the table and would bring the average train drivers salary up to 65,000.

The Aslef leadership should do the right thing and let their members decide their own future, instead of deciding it for them.

What does the Labour Party say it would do if elected?

Louise Haigh, Labours shadow transport secretary, said: It is a staggering dereliction of duty that the transport secretary hasnt got around the table with the unions to try to resolve it since the Christmas before last.

Labour will take an unashamedly different approach to the Tories, and will work with both sides to reach a deal in the interests of passengers and workers. If the transport secretary took this sensible approach then perhaps we wouldnt still be having strikes on our railways.

The shadow rail minister, Stephen Morgan MP, has previously said: Labour will bring our railways back into public ownership, as contracts expire, and ensure services work in the interests of the passenger.

What are the London Overground strikes about?

Pay. More than 300 members of the RMT will stage two 48-hour walkouts on the London Overground on Mondays and Tuesdays two weeks apart: 19-20 February 2024 and 4-5 March 2024. Among those taking action are security, station, revenue and control staff.

The RMT said that Arriva Rail London, which has the contract for London Overground, has offered a below inflation pay offer.

Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT, said: If this dispute cannot be resolved then RMT is more than prepared for a sustained period of industrial action to get London Overground workers the pay rise they deserve.

The Independent has contacted the Department for Transport and Arriva Rail London for comment.
The Duke of Sussex was presented with a medal for his service as a helicopter in the British Army by John Travolta at the 21st Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards on Friday, 19 January.

Prince Harry was honoured for his service while in the British Army.

The actor and recreational pilot presented the prince with the award on stage in Los Angeles.

Harry jokingly told Travolta: "Thanks very much, Captain John... Dont go running away. I was one year old when you danced with my mum, as you told everybody here, and continue to dine out on that... But look at us now.
Donald Trump is back in court as E Jean Carroll's 2019 lawsuit finally goes to trial.

The magazine writer also filed a second lawsuit against the former president in 2022, which went to trial in spring 2023.

A jury found Mr Trump sexually assaulted Ms Carroll, who accused him of raping her in a Bergdorf Goodman store three decades ago.

Mr Trump was also found guilty of defaming her after denying the accusations and calling her a liar.

Ms Carroll was awarded $2m for sexual abuse and $3m in damages for defamation.

The trial began this week with the same judge as the 2022 case.
Judge Judy praised Nikki Haley as she endorsed the Republican ahead of Tuesday's (23 January) New Hampshire primary.

The daytime television host, whose real name is Judith Sheindlin, appeared on stage at Exeter High School as she expressed her support for Donald Trump's rival.

It came before the former president opened up an 11 percentage point lead over Ms Haley according to the latest poll from CNN and the University of New Hampshire.

"Im not here necessarily to bash the competition, although I am perfectly capable of doing that," the 81-year-old said.
Elon Musk said he is "aspirationally Jewish" following a visit to the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp on Monday, 22 January, repeating comments he made in September 2023.

The X/Twitter owner spoke with commentator Ben Shapiro at the annual conference of the European Jewish Association in Krakow.

Most of my friends are Jewish... Im Jew-ish. Aspirationally Jewish, Mr Musk said on Monday.

It comes after Mr Musk was criticised last year for calling an antisemitic conspiracy theory the actual truth.

Mr Musk said he was aspirationally Jewish in September 2023 during a previous conversation with Mr Shapiro.

I dont know if Im sort of genetically Jewish... Im aspirationally Jewish, he said.
Rishi Sunaks controversial Rwanda asylum bill has suffered its first defeat in the House of Lords.

The unelected chamber sought to delay a treaty with the east African nation that paves the way for the divisive deportation scheme with a defeat backed by 214 votes to 171, majority 43.

Peers supported a call by the Lords International Agreements Committee (IAC) that parliament should not ratify the pact until ministers can prove Rwanda is safe.

Mr Sunaks bill states that Rwanda must be treated as a safe country under UK law, which the government believes will allow deportation flights to the country to begin.
Passengers flying from Tenerife to Stansted Airport showed appreciation for their pilot as they made a bumpy landing amid strong winds from Storm Isha.

Footage from the planes cabin shows travellers applauding as the plane hit the tarmac at the London aiport after a turbulent landing on Monday, 22 January.

Many planes faced long delays and diversions over the weekend, with several Edinburgh-bound flights landing in Cologne, Germany.

The UK has faced 80mph winds, with parts of Scotland seeing gusts of up to 100mph, affecting travel by road, air, and sea.
Tory London Mayor candidate Susan Hall has hit out at those in power making false promises as she announced a 200m police funding pledge.

Ms Hall appeared on LBC radio on Monday (22 January) and told presenter Nick Ferrari it was wrong to make promises on the radio without knowing how to fund them, before vowing to deliver more police officers.

Ms Hall said: I wont make promises on the radio unless I know they are funded.

You get so many different people on the radio promising everything. You should not promise anything unless you know where the money is coming from.
 Close Snow and ice covers UK towns as cold blast continues to disrupt travel

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The UK and Ireland are reeling from the destruction of Storm Jocelyn whose 97mph winds caused major travel chaos and have left thousands without power.

Approximately 12,000 homes and businesses remain without power across the Republic of Ireland following storms Isha and Jocelyn.

Earlier on Wednesday, NIE Networks said power had been restored to more than 52,000 customers since Sunday evening in Northern Ireland.

However, 1,200 remained without power on Wednesday morning.

Rail services to and from Scotland have been suspended until at least noon today, with Network Rail Scotland saying it had dealt with incidents of flooding, fallen trees and a shed roof blowing onto a high wall above a track on Tuesday evening.

Avanti West Coast also told passengers not to travel north of Preston until at least noon on Wednesday.

It comes as the coastguard launched an urgent search on Tuesday evening following reports of a person in the sea in Porthcawl, south Wales.

The alarm was raised just before 6pm but after several hours of searching in the treacherous conditions, the search was suspended in the early hours of Wednesday before it resumed as light returned.
Two parents have been arrested in Bismarck after authorities said an autopsy on their dead 2-year old child revealed the presence of fentanyl in the boy's system.

Jordan Many Ribs, 28, of Minot, and Jasmine Charging, 29, of Bismarck, were being held in the Burleigh Morton Detention Center after police responded to a residence in the 500 block of Yorkshire Lane late Sunday morning. They were each formally charged Monday with endangerment of a child or vulnerable adult resulting in death, endangerment of a child, two counts of child neglect, and a number of misdemeanor and infraction-level drug and drug paraphernalia counts.

A conviction on the most serious charge -- endangerment of a child or vulnerable adult resulting in death -- carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

A judge on Monday set bond for Charging at $100,000 cash. Many Ribs was scheduled to make his initial court appearance Tuesday. Court records do not indicate an attorney for either suspect.

Officers who responded to the home found the child identified as Jasten Many Ribs unresponsive, and Charging was attempting to revive him, according to the Bismarck Police Department. Jordan Many Ribs was also present in the home. Police detectives found a number of drugs including fentanyl, meth and marijuana as well as drug paraphernalia inside the home, authorities said.

Charging and Many Ribs allegedly admitted to using both meth and fentanyl over the weekend, according to an affidavit. That use included smoking, snorting and shooting with a syringe, the document said. Smoking fentanyl pills is often done with the use of tinfoil that can contain drug residue and is discarded after use, police said.

Both Charging and Many Ribs allegedly admitted to falling asleep at different times, leaving Jasten and another of the couple's children, a 4-year old, unsupervised, according to authorities.

Charging told officers Jasten was known to put objects in his mouth due to his age, the affidavit said. Many Ribs reportedly stated he awoke at one point to find the children rummaging through the trash in the kitchen.

The boy was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. There is no mention in the affidavit of the other child's whereabouts.

Preliminary autopsy results showed that the 2-year-old's urine tested positive for the presence of fentanyl, according to police. Fentanyl is an opioid that can be 50 times more powerful than heroin. It's frequently mixed with illegal street drugs, and authorities say it is a top reason for an increasing number of overdose deaths in the U.S.
Employers representative group Ibec has called on the Government to pause the introduction of new labour market policy measures as Irish businesses face a barrage of higher costs.

This follows the introduction of a number of new regulations by the Government, including a rise in the minimum wage and an increase in employees entitlement to paid sick leave.

Ibec estimates that new labour market policies have added 4bn to the wage bill of Irish companies.

Our recent analysis shows that policy changes in areas such as the commitment to a Living Wage by 2026, the introduction of pension auto-enrolment, increases in employer PRSI and non-indexation of PRSI thresholds, broadening of Statutory Sick Pay, and a range of additional leave entitlements will add over 4bn annually to the wage bill of Irish employers, Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy wrote in a letter to the Government.

For the most impacted firms, the group estimates that labour costs will rise by 25pc to 30pc over the next two years.

Mr McCoy also pointed to further knock-on costs for companies as other workers look for their pay to keep rising following the introduction of new policies, as well as the recent decision to increase the income thresholds for work permits.

This cannot be sustained without impacting on consumer prices, employment and business viability, he said, adding that Ibec had noted that business failures, particularly within the SME sector, are rising rapidly.

The business lobby group urged the Government to pause all further labour market policy measures which increase costs for employers.

This includes the planned further step increases in minimum wage, as well as the rises in income thresholds for work permits.

He also called on the Government to publish an impact assessment of increased labour costs on businesses by the second quarter of this year to show the consequence of these newly introduced measures on Irish employers.

Ibec accepts the need for many of the new labour market measures, particularly in relation to issues such as pensions coverage and cost of living challenges, Mr McCoy wrote.

However, the completely uncoordinated approach across Government departments is resulting in exceptionally large cumulative cost increases for many employers which are simply not sustainable.

It has asked the Government to commit to a new competitiveness charter which would set an annual ceiling on the total amount of labour market costs introduced for businesses in a year.
Data showed 62.7pc of instrumentation engineer positions remained on the Indeed hiring website for over two months. Photo: Getty

Engineering and construction roles are among the positions employers in Ireland are finding challenging to fill, according to new research from hiring platform Indeed.

Jobs which remained on the Indeed platform for over 60 days between January and the end of November last year were deemed hard to fill.

The data showed that 62.7pc of instrumentation engineer positions remained on the Indeed website for over two months.

These engineers are responsible for the planning, installation, monitoring and maintenance of control systems and machinery in manufacturing environments.

Roles for resident engineers and design engineers also featured in the top-10 list of jobs that remained open for over 60 days compiled by Indeed, while senior structural engineers ranked 11th.

Employers also struggled to fill positions in the construction industry, with 58.8pc of job postings for mechanical and electrical project managers live for longer than two months.

Civil supervisors, civil technicians, plumbing managers and ecologists also featured in the top 20.

Solicitors and tax consultants were also highlighted as hard to fill roles last year in Ireland.

Ad reviewers and online moderators were both also in high demand.

Both positions focus on overseeing online content.

Ad reviewers check that advertising content is accurate and appropriate, while moderators for companies such as tech giants, review content published on websites to make sure it adheres to the platforms guidelines.

Python developers also ranked highly in the list of jobs that employers are now finding difficult to fill. Python developers design, code and deploy development projects in the Python programming language.

Over half of job adverts related to roles in this space were on the site for longer than two months, the data showed.

The engineering and construction roles proving the hardest to fill are specialised and require either extensive education or training in addition to experience in many cases, Indeed senior economist Jack Kennedy said.

With a limited talent pool, those employers who can offer flexibility and other benefits in addition to competitive salaries are more likely to win over recruits, he added.
Employee rights to request remote or flexible working are poised to come into effect after the Government said the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) will finalise guidelines on the matter by the end of this month, 18 months after Ireland missed an EU deadline to roll out the measure.

Parents and carers will have the right to ask their employers for flexible working arrangements, such as four-day weeks or flexitime, and employees will be able to request remote working, under plans by the Government. However, Ireland has been facing fines and legal action after failing to transpose laws to give effect to a European work-life balance directive by an August 2022 deadline.

While the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act passed in April last year, the Government said the WRC code on remote and flexible working had to be published before the section of the legislation backing these new rights could commence.

The WRCs public consultation on the code ended last June.

A spokesperson for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has told the Irish Independent that the WRC is expected to have the code finalised in January. The commencement of Part 3 is a matter for the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

In 2022, then enterprise minister Leo Varadkar drafted the Right to Request Remote Working Bill, but its 13 grounds for an employer to refuse a request proved controversial. Instead, the law was included in the Work Life Balance bill and it set out that the employer has an obligation to consider both their needs and the needs of employees when evaluating a request for either remote or flexible working.

The delays in these rights has created a headache for parents who became accustomed to flexible work arrangements during the pandemic, for fully remote workers called back to the office  despite having fled the city to escape high rents and house prices  and for employers uncertain about how to respond to flexible working requests.

Weve been waiting for the WRC framework for last 12 months, said Crystel Robbins Rynne, chief operating officer of HRLocker.

Companies are looking for guidelines on whats reasonable to say to requests for remote or flexible working.
A new eight-episode drama starring Andrew Scott as a career criminal will hit streaming giant Netflix on April 4.

The Dubliner plays Tom Ripley in the upcoming series, described as a grifter scraping by in early 1960s New York who is hired by a wealthy man to travel to Italy and convince his vagabond son to come home.

Ripley accepts the gig  and it is the first step into a life of deceit, fraud and murder.

The eight episode series is based on the bestselling novels by Patricia Highsmith and also stars Dakota Fanning and Johnny Flynn.

A new teaser trailer for Ripley was released today, showing hints of the suspense-filled journey of the leading man in Italy and New York.

Scott has made waves in recent weeks with his new film All of Us Strangers, starring alongside fellow Irishman Paul Mescal.

The pair appeared on the Late Late Show on Friday night, telling host Patrick Kielty about their friendship that developed behind the scenes.

"I'm a huge admirer of Andrew's work and have been for years but I think, actually, All of Us Strangers was the catalyst for the friendship  or the bromance that people are referencing now  I think happened as a result of filming All of Us Strangers, said Mescal.

"Sometimes you just have chemistry," added Scott.

"I don't necessarily mean it's like physical chemistry or whatever. Chemistry's a really weird thing with actors, you just have to really enjoy acting with each other but it's really helped when you like the person and we had really intense stuff to do in the movie and that kind of bonds you when you're sitting naked...

"On a Monday morning at nine o'clock!" joked Mescal.

The multi-award nominated film has received nods at the BAFTAs, the Golden Globes and beyond.

Both Mescal and Scott have been nominated for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor accolades.

The pair told Kielty on Friday that they were completely overwhelmed by the crowd that gathered before the Irish premiere of the film at the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield.

Scott plays a screenwriter living in London, who falls in love with his neighbour Harry (played by Mescal) after a chance encounter.

This is one of the great modern performances and what he does in the film is absurdly brilliant and to get to share the screen with him to me is one of the greatest privileges of my life, Mescal said.
She murdered at the drop of a hat: The bloody truth about cartel godmother Griselda Blanco

Sofia Vergara plays The Cocaine Queen in a new six-part Netflix series

Griselda Official Netflix Trailer

Tom Fordy  Telegraph.co.uk Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 16:30

The Miami drugs war  a battle to control cocaine in the South Florida city  came out in the open with the Dadeland Mall Massacre, a daytime shooting in July 1979 that killed two mobsters, wounded two civilians, and terrified a mall full of shoppers.
I hope my dads watching from up there  Ruth Jones on her poignant new stage role and the enduring legacy of Gavin & Stacey

Best known as Nessa from sitcom Gavin & Stacey (and happily so) Ruth Jones is set to take to the Dublin stage in Sister Act. She tells us that her late father would have been proud of her new direction, connecting with an audience gives her a proper tidy buzz

Ruth Jones Q&A

Saoirse Hanley Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 03:30

When I arrive to meet Ruth Jones at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for our interview, I overhear the end of her chat with another journalist. She is giving a crash course on the correct intonation of Oi! and Whats occurrin? Sitting outside the room, I get a text message from my best friend asking: Do you think shell say Whats occurrin? Its a phrase clearly synonymous with the Welsh actress.
Solicitor Frank Buttimer (left) and Ian Bailey (second from left) speak to the media outside the High Court, Dublin, after the court rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite Mr Bailey. Photo: PA

Sophie Toscan du Plantiers son has said her family continue to search for truth and justice following the death of Ian Bailey.

Pierre-Louis Baudey-Vignaud said his family will never be able to obtain a confession from Mr Bailey after his death on Sunday.

The chief suspect in the murder of French woman Sophie Toscan du Plantier collapsed after suffering a suspected heart attack on a street in west Cork yesterday afternoon. He was attended by paramedics and the public, with CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) practised. He was dead on arrival to Bantry Hospital. No inquest will be held into his death after a coroner determined that the 66-year-old former journalist and self-styled poet, died from natural causes.

"We continue our efforts for truth and justice. An investigation is still underway in Ireland and we are confident that with the discovery of new elements, the hearing of new witnesses and the revelations of possible complicity will enable Irish police to close the case finally, 27 years after my mothers murder, said Mr Baudey-Vignaud.

He told RTE News that Mr Bailey always avoided telling the truth about this murder, of which, beyond any reasonable doubt, he knew every detail.

He said the Englishman refused to answer questions from French investigators entangling himself in lies and contradiction, provoking and taunting the police, the judiciary and the media.

He said Mr Bailey remained free, never facing charges from the Irish judicial system.

"Irish judicial authorities never wanted to charge him or extradite him to France in disregard of European commitments based on the principal of mutual trust between states which Ireland signed and ratified, said Mr Baudey-Vignaud.

The body of Ms Toscan du Plantier (39) was found badly beaten outside her holiday home in Schull, West Cork, in December 1996.

Mr Bailey always vehemently denied any involvement in Ms Toscan du Plantiers death.

A cold case investigation is currently underway into her murder.

Mr Bailey was convicted of her murder in his absence by a Paris court in May 2019, which imposed a 25-year sentence.

He had no legal representation, did not attend the court and described it as a farce at the time.

In October 2020, the High Court in Ireland rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite Mr Bailey for the murder.

The court ruled that he would not be surrendered to France after a European Arrest Warrant was issued in 2019.

Earlier today, Ms Toscan du Plantiers uncle also said that Irish investigators must continue to probe her murder.

Jean Pierre Gazeau said Mr Bailey never faced legal consequences in Ireland.

Mr Gazeau said his family were so certain of Mr Baileys guilt because he was convicted of her murder in a French court, adding there were so many circumstantial evidences tying him to her death.

Mr Gazeau told RTE radio: Ian Bailey, he is a human being and may his soul rest in peace.

Ian Bailey remained free in Ireland. He never faced legal consequences in that country. He constantly refused to answer questions from French investigators from the judge.

He tied himself in lies, omissions, contradictions before Irish investigators.

Ian Bailey consistently evaded justice and refused to disclose the truth to a judge about the murder of Sophie.

He added: I think the cold case teams investigation in Ireland should continue because there is a strong possibility to have new evidence coming from DNA researchers with this new system of investigation.

Mr Gazeau said Sophies parents, whom he said were unwell, were to be told about Mr Baileys death later on Monday.

He also said that Mr Bailey attempted to contact him a number of times.

We always refused to establish a direct contact with Ian Bailey. This is a matter of justice. When someone is accused of murder, I think the most important thing is to have a normal relationship between that person, which is considered a suspect, and the police.

Ian Bailey was twice arrested by gardai in relation to her murder.

His solicitor Frank Buttimer today described him as a most complicated individual whom he will never forget.

I will never forget him, Mr Buttimer told RTEs Morning Ireland.

Ill remember him as a most complicated individual. I never knew him before this event in 1996 so I cant measure him or compare him then to what I learned about later, he said.

Solicitor Frank Buttimer.

Mr Bailey had consistently protested his innocence in relation to the killing of the French woman in Cork, and described himself as the prime suspect.

He did describe himself as the prime suspect. Then he becomes this very convenient thing which was called the self-confessed prime suspect, which was an ideal status for the police to attribute to him, Mr Buttimer said.

In other words it was as if he was portraying himself as this prime suspect on a confessional basis, in the context where the police in Ireland knew they did not have sufficient evidence to put him on trial, Mr Buttimer said.

The Cork-based solicitor said much of the perception of Mr Bailey was down to Mr Bailey speaking about his case.

The whole perception of Ian Bailey, significantly I have to confess generated by himself in the manner in which he spoke of his own case and his own circumstances which really didnt help him, Mr Buttimer said.

Mr Bailey spoke openly about the case, which drew public and media attention.

I have to confess, again, I found some of the stuff that was going on a little bit frustrating, Mr Buttimer said.

He brought a lot of his attention and so on, upon himself but all of that was because it was his method of reacting to what had been done to him.

Different people I have no doubt react in different ways to circumstances. The circumstances in which he found himself were absolutely challenging for him, really hard to process what was going on, Mr Buttimer said.

Mr Buttimer said that he knew Mr Bailey well and understood him.

I always understood him because I knew him quite well. I walked down the street with him. Everybody would stare at him. Everybody would associate him in some fashion or other, innocent or not, some people did think he was innocent and much more so later on in years, Mr Buttimer said.

But you could just see the reaction to him as one was walking down the street with him. Oh theres Ian Bailey, the guy connected with that crime, he added.

While Mr Bailey was charged with assault of his ex-partner Jules Thomas in 2001, Mr Buttimer said being convicted of assault doesnt make you guilty of a murder.

In April 1997, an inquest into Ms Toscan du Plantiers killing was adjourned given the ongoing garda investigation at that time.

State Pathologist, Dr John Harbison , now deceased, offered brief evidence that she had died from multiple injuries including laceration of the brain and a fracture of the skull, caused by a blunt instrument.

No other evidence was offered before the inquest was adjourned. It is conceivable that Sophies inquest could be reconvened, if new evidence emerges by way of the garda cold case investigation

Speaking this morning, Mr Buttimer said he believed that the chances of the investigation coming to any conclusion are receding.

I think the chances are receding with the passage of time. Theres always a chance...I spoke to Ian about this many many times, in fact he advocated for a cold case review.

The reality is that he always wanted that to happen but he died before that ever would have happened, Mr Buttimer said.
There were dozens of CCTV cameras, but no clue where she is  disappearance of Jean Tighe four years ago was plagued by confusion from the start
Disability organisation Ability West has been ordered to pay a care worker 27,000 after being found liable for her sexual harassment through lewd texts and unwanted touching from her line manager.

The texts included the man asking her whether she wanted toe-curling orgasmic sex and stating: You owe me BJ, along with a reference to a hand job, the Workplace Relations Commission was told in 2022.

She said she was one of two workers to complain about the same managers conduct in the space of a month.

In a decision published today (SAT), the WRC upheld Shannon Avril Hollands complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 against the disability organisation.

The tribunal has found that the standard of training on sexual harassment in the organisation, which provides residential and respite care services to intellectually disabled children and adults in the west of Ireland, was not sufficient. That was after its former human resources director admitted in evidence there was no record of any such training.

The press has been barred from naming the HR director by order of the WRC adjudicator  but Ability West failed in an attempt to have the hearings on the affair held behind closed doors after the workers legal team said she wanted a light shone on what happened.

Ms Holland told the tribunal that the HR director told her she was not entitled to see the findings of a company investigation upholding her complaint  a document she should have received, the WRC found.

The man she accused did receive the report, the tribunal heard.

At a hearing on 29 April this year, the tribunal heard evidence on a string of texts from her line manager in May 2019 which Ms Holland said left her feeling really afraid.

Ms Holland gave evidence that on 19 May 2019, after asking him to give her a day off after seven days work in a row concluding in two twelve-hour shifts the line manager replied: You owe me.

I thought after seven full days of work and two separate 12-hour shifts I wouldnt be in a position to owe him anything, Ms Holland said.

I was really afraid about work the next day. I felt I had to reply because Id see him at work. I didnt sleep at all that night, she said.

Ms Holland said the line manager was generally informal and could be crude.

I know other staff left because it made them feel uncomfortable, she said.

She also gave evidence that her line manager had placed his hands on her hips at work in a manner which made her feel uncomfortable on one occasion.

The complainant sent an email to lodge a grievance with her employer on Sunday 15 December 2019, which was received by Ability West the following day, when a second employee made a similar complaint, the hearing was told.

Ibec official Aisling McDevitt, appearing for the employer, said Ability West had a full set of procedures in place, took reasonably practical steps in response to the complaints and discharged its responsibility to prevent harassment by placing the perpetrator on administrative leave before sacking him.

Ms McDevitt said that after the complainant lodged her grievance the matter was investigated fully by an independent HR consultant, who upheld the sexual harassment claim on the balance of probabilities and also found the line manager had turned up to work drunk.

The line manager was ultimately dismissed on the grounds of gross misconduct in June 2020, the commission was told.

Cross-examining the HR director, Ms Hollands barrister Anne-Marie Giblin BL put it to him that: There is an acceptance by the respondent [Ability West] that sexual harassment took place?

That was upheld, yes, the witness said.

In response to questioning by the adjudicating officer, Anne McElduff, the HR officer said he opted to issue the final report to the perpetrator but not Ms Holland because adverse findings had been made against the former and the matter was proceeding to a disciplinary process.

I did give her a comprehensive understanding of the report  those parts upheld or not upheld, he said.

In her decision, Ms McElduff wrote that the copies of the texts from the complainants line manager confirmed their sexual nature and that Ms Hollands evidence about the mans conduct and its impact on her was uncontested.

Ms McElduff said she was satisfied an inference of gender discrimination could be drawn on the balance of probability and that it was up to the employer to disprove it or show it had taken reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment.

She said that in spite of the impact of the pandemic, the time it took to complete the report  around six months  had been excessive, and that the complainant should have been furnished with the investigators final report, though she acknowledged the HR director did continue to engage with her on the matter.

Ms McElduff added that Ability West had failed to show it had provided any or adequate training on its dignity at work policies  and the nature of the texts from the line manager suggested he was unaware of the policy.

Simply having the policy in writing and available, no matter how comprehensive it might be or how quickly it kicked in after the complaint was not sufficient to make out the defence the organisation was seeking to rely on, Ms McElduff wrote.

Upholding Ms Hollands discrimination claim, she ordered Ability West to pay the worker 27,000 in compensation. Ms McElduffs decision on her later complaint of constructive dismissal, which was addressed at the same set of hearings in 2022, has not yet been published by the tribunal.
A FATHER-of-five has been accused of stealing a gardas uniform after breaking into his car while it was parked in central Dublin.

Anthony Cox (53) allegedly took a bag containing the off-duty officers public order uniform and personal protection equipment.

The missing gear was never recovered but a garda cap was found in Mr Coxs hostel room when it was searched, Dublin District Court heard.

Judge Treasa Kelly granted bail and adjourned the case for DPP directions to be given.

Mr Cox, with an address at Hardwicke Street in the north inner city, is charged with theft of the uniform at Parnell Square North and possession of the gardas stolen gear bag at Hardwicke Street on December 28 last year.

He is also charged with possession of a stolen garda public order cap at his home address on January 11.

Objecting to bail, Garda John Hetherton said it was alleged the accused gained access to the gardas parked car by smashing the rear fly window.

It was alleged he stole a gear bag with an official-issue public order uniform and personal protective equipment including a baton.

The accused was allegedly captured on CCTV carrying an official garda gear bag towards his address at nearby Hardwicke Street.

His address was searched under warrant and a garda public order unit cap was found in the hood of a jacket in the bathroom.

The accused was arrested and charged.

Gda Hetherton said in the CCTV footage, Mr Cox was seen walking towards the flat complex at Hardwicke Street with two bags over his shoulders. The An Garda Siochana emblem was visible on one bag in the footage, the garda said.

The garda said the maximum potential prison sentence for theft on conviction was 10 years.

The property had not been recovered and gardai had no footage of the accused at the vehicle, defence solicitor Michael Kelleher said, applying for bail.

Gda Hetherton said the accused was tracked on CCTV for a number of streets.

Mr Kelleher said the gardas assertion that the accused gained access by smashing the fly window was guesswork.

The solicitor said his client would say he told gardai it was him in the video but the bag was a regular bag and not the one that went missing.

He would say it wasnt very clear footage at all.

Mr Cox would say he did not break into the vehicle or have the bag and that he was given the cap by another individual.

Mr Kelleher said the case could take quite some time to progress and it would possibly go forward to the circuit court.

Judge Kelly set bail in Mr Coxs own bond of 200 with no cash required. Under conditions, he must sign on three times weekly at Mountjoy garda station and notify gardai of any change of address.
Nearly 300 elementary schools in North Dakota have the opportunity to receive the All Kids Bike Learn-to-Ride Kindergarten PE Program, according to Gov. Doug Burgum.

That gives an estimated 9,000 students the opportunity to learn to ride a bicycle in the 2023-24 school year alone, his office said.

All Kids Bike is a nonprofit that equips schools with everything needed to teach children to ride a bike. It was awarded a $1.6 million grant from the Governors Emergency Education Relief Fund. The governor's office also is seeking private sector partners.

Learning to ride a bicycle provides a lifelong skill that promotes physical activity and independence and gives students another mode of transportation as they get older, Burgum said.
The family of Sophie Toscan du Plantier say they will never get truth and justice for her murder following the sudden death of main suspect Ian Bailey.

Ms du Plantiers brother, Bertrand Bouniol, said it is the fault of Ireland because Bailey was convicted of murder by a Paris court in 2019 but never had to face the sentence.

Bailey was tried in absentia for the murder of the mother of one in Schull, west Cork in 1996. He had refused to attend the Paris proceedings, which he rejected as a show trial and a mockery of justice.

Last night Mr Bouniol told the Irish Independent: Mr Bailey was found guilty by French justice but never went to prison because of the Irish justice system.

For us this is a mistake. It is also the fault of Europe, the EU, which was unable to harmonise its justice system.

But it is mainly the fault of Ireland, which never came to the end of this crime, despite a large number of investigations, and a lack of will and courage on the part of Irish justice.

My sister was brutally murdered and her murderer was able to continue a normal life.

Ms du Plantiers uncle, Jean-Pierre Gazeau, said: Ian Bailey has passed away. May he rest in peace.

For Sophies 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.

Bailey (66) fell ill and collapsed while walking on Barrack Street in Bantry at lunchtime yesterday.

He was treated on the street by a number of pedestrians, one of whom performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on him until an ambulance arrived. Paramedics worked to revive him at the scene. However, he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Last year, he told the Irish Independent he was hoping his cardiac health would improve sufficiently to allow him to undergo bypass surgery, which he required following a series of heart attacks.

He also said his hope and prayer was to live long enough to see the person responsible for the brutal killing of Ms du Plantier (39) finally brought to justice.

Asked about the implications for the cold-case reinvestigation, the gardai said: The garda investigation into the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in 1996 remains active and ongoing. An Garda Siochana has no further comment at this time.

Ms du Plantiers parents are due to be briefed about Baileys death today. Her father Georges (97) is currently in hospital. Her mother Marguerite is 93.
He was the States first gay elected official and ran for President in 2011.

Speaking to RTEs News At One, the Independent Senator said there was a black mark against gay people because of the criminalisation of homosexuality in the 1970s.

He brought the Attorney General to the High Court over the criminalisation of homosexuality. The High Court ruled against Mr Norris and the Supreme Court ruled against his appeal of the decision.

But in 1988, the European Court of Human Rights decided the law went against the European Convention on Human Rights.

I thought that was completely unfair and discriminatory so I decided to take it on, he said about bringing his case to Europe.

It was a sense of unfairness, the injustice of it. But once I got into the Senate, I also took on quite a few other issues. With Sean Barrett and John Crown, my wonderful colleagues, we saved the Senate when Enda [Kenny] wanted to abolish it.

Then I started a Foreign Affairs Committee  we were unusual in Europe in that we didnt have a Foreign Affairs Committee.

The law criminalising homosexuality in Ireland was then repealed in 1993.

Mr Norris also acknowledged some of the political issues he wasnt so successful on, including Tibet and a motion for an underground railway system in Dublin.

He counts former health minister Dr Noel Browne among his heroes, as well as former dean of St Patricks Cathedral Victor Griffin, and described them as very progressive people.

He said his faith was very important to him because it gave life meaning and provided strength during his 2011 presidential campaign.

It creates a meaning in life that I think is fundamental, otherwise were just an accident, were just a cosmic accident and theres no meaning or rhyme to living, he said.

The presidential campaign had its very positive aspects as well, I went around all the farmers markets and bought masses of homemade jam and honey and all these kind of things.

When the media got stuck in, they gave me a terrible time and they told all kinds of dreadful lies about me.

The occasion of Mr Norris retirement will be marked in the Seanad today, after which he plans to continue to speaking about political issues, including the upcoming referendums on March 8.

First diagnosed with cancer in 2013, he said he was in good health at the moment.

My health is splendid! For somebody whos just 80 years old Im remarkable. Im kept alive on pills of course. At my age everybody takes pills, he said.

However, he said he no longer had the strength for his trademark post-dinner speeches, which went on for so long people would take bets on their duration.

Mr Norris plans to move to Cyprus and his decision to retire will trigger a by-election in the Trinity College consituency of Seanad Eireann.
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.

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.

Speaking about the mood in Westminster, editor of Politics Home, Adam Payne, said that there was increased frustration over the DUPs position.

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.
A total of three referendums will be held this year as the Cabinet will sign off on plans to draft wording for a poll on Ireland joining the Unified Patent Court.

If the referendum is passed, it will mean companies will need only one patent instead of 27 for any products they sell in the EU.

The Unified Patent Court is the common patent court of 17 countries across the EU and only opened in June of last year.

The Government hopes to hold this referendum at the same time as local and European elections in June.

It will be the third referendum this year - on March 8, the public will be asked to vote on the role of women in the home and care referendums in two separate referendums.

Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney will tomorrow seek Cabinet permission to draft the bill for the Unified Patent Court referendum.

The Cabinet is also expected to sign off on the expected date for the poll - this will be on the same day as local and European elections in June.

Wording of the proposed referendum will then be drafted following the Cabinet decision.

If Ireland opts out and does not join the court, it will mean it will be more expensive for companies in Ireland as they will need separate patents for Ireland and internationally.

The Government hopes joining the patent court will make Ireland a more attractive place to international companies.

According to the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland, a patent is a form of 'industrial property', which can be assigned, transferred, licensed or used by the owner.

However, patents are territorial and give an exclusive right in the country where the patent has been granted as long as the patent is renewed each year.

At the moment, an Irish patent is only valid in Ireland.
Senan Molony: I was first to interview Ian Bailey in 1997  I never had any doubt that he killed Sophie Toscan du Plantier

Journalist put himself in the frame and at times almost taunted gardai with clues and his admissions

Ian Bailey dies after suffering suspected heart attack

Senan Molony Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 03:30

The death of Ian Bailey robs the family of Sophie Toscan du Plantier of justice, even though he was convicted in absentia in France for her murder and sentenced to 25 years in jail.
Education Minister Norma Foley recently visited a Dublin school that will become co-ed in September. Photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins

A total of 25 schools have become co-educational since 2020, a sign of major change in the education landscape since the pandemic.

The increase in the number of boys and girls being taught together arguably points the way to a new normal in Irish schooling.

The figures on the 25 schools given co-ed status since 2020 were confirmed by the Department of Education and show much more rapid change than that of altered patronage from former control of the Catholic Church.

There has been an increase in recent years in the number of schools switching from single sex to co-ed status, with educationalists saying it is due to parental demand.

Many parents like their sons and daughters to be able to attend the same primary school, which is co-ed, and then to go on to secondary school together.

They also want a broad range of subjects to be available to their children.

For example, some single-sex boys schools traditionally may not offer home economics, while some single-sex girls schools may not offer subjects such as woodwork or construction studies.

Parents also naturally like the convenience of being able to drop their children to one school instead of two, an educationalist said.

At the same time, there remain other communities where parents are happy with their single-sex schools for boys or girls as they are performing well, with no push to change them.

There is usually a consultation process to gather the views of local parents.

Any application for a change of status must be first approved by the school patron (often the local Catholic bishop).

The next step in the process is for the school patron to submit a change-of-status request to the Department of Education.

The department cannot change the status of any school from single sex to co-ed without the agreement of the patron.

Generally, it looks favourably on requests for schools to change from single sex to co-educational.

However, requests can be declined if the change will cause a lack of places for boys or girls in the area where the school is located  for example, if a town had two boys schools and just one girls school, then a move by one of them to co-ed could result in a shortage of places for girls.

In recognition of the trend, Education Minister Norma Foley visited a school in Dublin last week.

St Marys Secondary School for girls in Baldoyle is changing to co-ed status in September this year and will enrol boys in first year.

Figures from the find a school service on gov.ie show 132 boys national schools, 96 girls national schools and 2,895 mixed national schools.

But the same service shows a marked change after age 12. There are, nationwide, some 97 boys post-primary schools, 124 girls post-primary schools and 514 mixed.

All of the 137 special schools are co-educational schools.
A young woman who was a passenger in a van was killed after the vehicle in which she was travelling in struck a tree in the early hours of the morning.

The woman, aged in her twenties, suffered fatal injuries when the van crashed at Carnalogue in Co.Louth at approximately 1.50am.

Emergency services attended the scene and she was pronounced deceased.

A second person in the van, a man in his twenties, was rushed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.

No other injuries were reported.

The womans body remains at the scene this morning and a technical examination will be carried out by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators later today. Local diversions are currently in place.

Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area at the time, are asked to make this footage available to Gardai.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station
As a cinephile, I read Adrian Wecklers article with interest (Cinemas are becoming the last place youd want to see a film, Irish Independent Review, January 20).

Last year, I saw over 200 films of every hue and genre in cinemas all around the country. I can recall only three occasions when other patrons became such a distraction to my (and no doubt others) enjoyment of what was happening on the big screen that action was warranted.

On two of those occasions, the manager was called (once by me) and the noisy offenders were escorted out of the auditorium after being cautioned to no avail. On another occasion, a middle-aged man who clearly had no interest in the movie that his friends brought him along to see would not turn off his bright mobile phone. I scrambled down over three rows of seats in the dark and tapped him on the shoulder. Problem solved, but it was now much more difficult to return to my seat where Id left my belongings.

I recently saw Saltburn for the second time to an almost full house of more than a hundred people in Limerick. The squeamish sounds from some of the young female members of the audience during the now infamous bath scene was something to behold and witness first hand. Good luck to you if you can get a similar experience in the absence of strangers in the comfort of your own abode.

The sociological term for this, I believe, is called collective effervescence and I experience it among strangers in movie theatres quite a lot.

Of course one cant please everyone all of the time. And if infrequent cinema goers prefer streaming films at home, thats their prerogative too. But its increasingly very expensive with all the different providers and multitude of options. By contrast, I can see hundreds of movies, all for under 15 a month and many of them in super comfortable reclining leather seats.

When Cillian Murphy, Barry Keoghan and Emma Stone, to name but a few, step on the red carpet during the upcoming awards season, they will be pushing the unrivalled joy of the cinematic experience that they have worked so hard on to produce. And thats fine too.

Tom McElligott, Listowel, Co Kerry

US democracy is in a bad place  a choice between a dodderer or an ignoramus

At last one of the chicken-livered Republican candidates has come out with what any sane person has known for yonks  this week, Nikki Haley finally asked: Who really wants an 80-year-old leader?

With US democracy in a very poor place and with so many global conflicts, it is terrifying to think that the strongest nation in the western- world (but with massive baggage and debts) could be ruled by either of these ancient old men. What a ghastly choice  a decent, if doddery, old duffer or a lying, incompetent ignoramus.

David Ryan , Co Meath

A kings ransom for the answer to this royal riddle on Charless hospital stay

Can one predict with confidence that King Charles will not have to spend any time languishing on a hospital trolley? One is sure, one can.

Tom Gilsenan , Beaumont, Dublin 9 

Trump has his fans here  but thankfully his style works only in America

I note from your letters page (Trump is a superstar and will no doubt be elected to serve a second term, January 19) that Donald Trump has a fan in Stillorgan.

Maurice Callaghan writes glowingly about the man he labels a superstar. Trump, in his opinion, is a master of the sound bite with an extraordinary screen presence

He sees him as a dead cert to be elected for a second time. 

There is no doubt Trump is a great showman and, in this regard is head and shoulders above his opponents. Hes the PT Barnum of world politics.

Hes in the same zip code as his friend and supporter Don King when it comes to self-promotion, bombastic pronouncements and sloganeering. While many would see Trump as simply awful, Maurice sees him as awesome.

If he wins the presidency again  as Maurice predicts  Don King will, no doubt, resurrect his oft-repeated sound bite to fit the occasion: Only in America.

And, hed be right.

Jim OConnell, Ashtown, Dublin 7

The HIA has proven to be invaluable to me when it comes to hearing aids

With half a million of us due to renew our health insurance this month, there is welcome advice in the media to help make sense of the myriad policies available but so often poorly described. Choosing best value appropriate cover is a very daunting task for older people especially.

Another matter essential to the health of our older population is that of dealing with hearing deficiency. It has been my experience that choosing suitable hearing aids is even more challenging and intimidating.

There are many more vendors in the hearing aids market than in the health insurance market. Many have very different client approaches, offering various but confusingly differentiated technologies, giving no basic yardstick on which to make a comparative judgment.

Testing procedures can differ significantly, while after-sales service also lacks uniformity. Added to this is the very high cost and price range of this technology.

In deciding on appropriate health cover, I have found the Health Insurance Authority (HIA) to be of invaluable assistance. A body based on the same principles, perhaps under its wing, is needed in terms of hearing health and technological assistance.

Michael Gannon, Kilkenny City

Speed limits are not the main problem on our roads, risky behaviour is

I wish to agree with many of the sentiments expressed by letter writer Eamon Kearney (Selfish drivers are putting fellow motorists at risk all across the country, sadly, Letters, January 20).

I drive almost 900km for work every week and regularly witness the following: dangerous or reckless speeding; overtaking approaching a bend or dip in the road where oncoming traffic is not visible; overtaking multiple vehicles at once; cutting in front of vehicles at speed when overtaking is no longer possible due to oncoming traffic; overtaking on a solid unbroken white line where it is unsafe; and aggressive driving including prolonged tailgating.

Im not sure that reducing the current speed limits will lead to fewer road fatalities.

Stephen OHara, Carrowmore, Co Sligo
A father-daughter pair of Fargo state legislators will not seek another term in the North Dakota Legislature in 2024, the duo announced Monday.

State Sen. Jim Roers and State Rep. Shannon Roers Jones, both District 46 Republicans, were first elected in 2016. They said their decision is founded in an interest in spending more time with family and a commitment to business opportunities for Roers Construction and Development.

Roers Jones in a statement highlighted her efforts to repeal blue laws -- laws restricting some or all activities on particular days, such as alcohol sales on Sundays -- in North Dakota. She was on the Energy and Natural Resources and Judiciary committees during the 2023 regular legislative session.

Roers, meanwhile, pointed to his time on the Appropriations Committee and his efforts to secure funding for projects at his alma mater, North Dakota State University in Fargo. He is also the state Senate portfolio leader for NDSU.

The legislators are the latest among a handful of lawmakers to announce they aren't running for reelection -- a list that includes longtime Republican legislator David Rust, of Tioga, who last week announced his retirement at the end of his current term.
The award winners in each category will be announced at an event in Dublin next month

The Mallow Castle Festival has been nominated for an All Ireland Community & Council award.

Cork County Council has received five nominations for this years All Ireland Community & Council Awards 2024.

Mallow Librarys regular Repair Cafe event, where members of the community collaborate with experts to fix their broken goods in the name of sustainability, has been nominated in the Best Environmental Project category of the annual awards.

Amongst the five countrywide events up for Best Irish Festival is another nominee from the north Cork town, the Mallow Castle Festival.

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In contention for Best Trail/Waterway in Ireland is Glengarriffs Blue Pool Trails, where around 1,600m of existing trail walks were recently upgraded to make the amenity more accessible for people of all abilities.

Known for its wetlands, Harpers Island near Glounthaune in Cork Harbour has been nominated for the Best Green Sustainable award.

A Cork housing development, namely the Cascade Apartments Development, which saw a 17-year-old unfinished vacant apartment complex transformed into 95 homes in Carrigtwohill, has been nominated for the Best housing Regeneration & Urban Planning award.

The winners of each category will be announced at a black tie ceremony that will be held at Dublin Royal Convention Centre on Saturday, February 17.
ESB Network crews say power should be restored in County Clare by 6pm on Monday evening. Photo: Getty Images

ESB Network crews say power should be restored in County Clare by 6pm on Monday evening. Photo: Getty Images

Over 200 homes remain without power in County Cork in the wake of Storm Isha and while the worst is over for now, a yellow wind warning is in place from the Rebel County from 5pm on Tuesday.

The ESB has revealed over 235,000 homes, businesses and farms across the country were without power on Monday morning, with repair crews working non-stop to restore the outages.

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In Cork, 214 households in Cork are still without power today (Monday) in Kilbarry, Ringaskiddy and Riverstown, with restoration expected before 6pm.

Cork Airport was also affected with 10 flights cancelled and six diverted from Cork Airport throughout Sunday, January 21. Flights are expected to operate as normal today.

The Cork to Dublin Irish rail route yesterday was affected by delays caused by the storm with several trees on the line.

The Cork City Fire Brigade was kept busy by the storm, crews from the Anglesea Street and Ballyvolane units responding to over 50 separate incidents in a 24 hour period.

A building on Parnell Place in the city centre was severely damaged during the storm with lane restrictions currently in place for drivers.

A number of trees, power lines and debris have affected roads across the county today and drivers are urged to drive with extreme caution, and be aware of vulnerable road users including pedestrians and cyclists.

Cork isnt in the clear just yet as Met Eireann has issued a status yellow wind warning for Cork, which is valid from 5pm on Tuesday, January 23 to 2am Wednesday, January 24.

Forecasters are warning of very strong and gusty southwest to west winds, with potential impacts being large coastal waves with wave overtopping, difficult travelling conditions, and debris and loose objects displaced.
Storm Isha brought winds that knocked trees and blocked roads around the country Pic: @DubFireBrigade

Motorists are being advised to take care this morning following Storm Isha which caused travel chaos as dozens of roads were blocked by fallen trees, power lines and debris lastnight.

The enterprise train has also warned that delays are in plays on the 6.50 Lanyon Place to Dublin Connolly a Lanyon Place due to an obstruction on the line.

There are also reports from Irish Rail of a local power outage in the Rush and Lusk area, trains are still calling at the station with emergency lighting operating theyve asked commuters to take extra care on platform areas.

Irish Rail have also said that scheduled services are operating on all routes with some delays and reduced capacity of some services.

In Dublin its slow now on the M1 southbound from Junction 4, Donabate to Junction 2, Dublin Airport.

Theres a queue from the M50 interchange to the Santry exit.

Its also slow in Dublin on Gardiner Street inbound from Summerhill to Beresford Place and also heading in on the M3 from Junction 4, Clonee to Junction 3, Clonsilla.

More to follow...
A Dingle postmaster, a Tralee superintendent, and a Listowel native who made waves in Dublin are among the voices heard in the latest oral-history collection from Irish Life and Lore, the oral-history archive compiled by Tralee-based couple Maurice and Jane OKeeffe.

But the new 2023 Heritage Collection goes far beyond Kerrys county bounds, as Maurice explained to The Kerryman in recent days.

As is typical of the OKeeffes collections, the recordings cover a wide range of topics and will appeal to an equally broad range of listeners.

Among the Kerry participants is Brian ODaly, a long-time employee of the ESB in Tralee, who discussed Valentia Cable Station with Maurice and Jane. Postmaster Bernie Goggin  whose uncle, Paddy Foley, chaired this newspaper  talks about Dingles transformation from a rural fishing town to a tourist hotspot; and Garda Donal OSullivan talks about his career, which included a transfer in 1982 to serve as Chief Superintendent in Tralee.

This collection consists of oral history recordings conducted with 26 interviewees in counties Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Clare and Meath in 2022 and 2023, Maurice told The Kerryman of the collections breadth. The content of these recordings covers a broad range of topics including life on Scattery Island and its inhabitants; the working of the Land Commission; the GAA; farming on the Burren in County Clare and its archaeology; lives spent in the nursing profession, in An Garda Siochana, the confectionary industry and the Dominican Order; vernacular architecture; rural electrification; the Seven Arch Bridge (pack-horse bridge) in Scurlockstown, County Meath; and Irish Traveller customs, traditions and culture.

The full collection is available at www.irishlifeandlore.com/product-category/recordings/thematic/heritage-collection-2023/ for 220, while individual recordings are available from the same address, costing 10 apiece.
ESB crews are working to restore power to over 5,600 Galway customers

About 5,618 households are currently without power in County Galway in the wake of Storm Isha.

Galway was under a status red wind warning from 5pm to 9pm on Sunday, January 21, as Storm Isha hit the west coast.

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On Monday morning, January 22, several households all over Ireland are still without electricity. Among them, about 5,618 customers are currently without power in Galway according to the ESB online map.

Faults have affected several areas across the county and it is expected they will be resolved by Monday evening at 6pm.

Among the most affected areas are Tuam North, where 1,602 faults are reported, Headford reported 1,424 outages, Glenamaddy reported 709 and the Creagh area 581.

Read more Man killed in Mayo crash named as ESB says some will be without power for days with Storm Jocelyn tracking towards Ireland

Also, 246 customers are without power in Clifden, 186 in Oughterard, 342 in Salthill and 215 in Athenry.

Nationally, a total of 235,000 ESB customers have been reported without electricity on Monday morning.

ESB explained in a statement: Currently 235,000 homes, businesses, and farms are without electricity this morning post storm Isha. Our technicians are on the ground since first light, and we've enlisted additional support to aid restoration efforts.

After Storm Isha, Met Eireann has issued a status yellow wind warning that will affect Galway until 7pm on Monday. Another status yellow wind warning will then affect the county from 12pm on Tuesday, January 23, until 2am on Wednesday, January 24, while a status orange wind warning will be in place from 6pm on Tuesday until midnight.
The outspoken Fr William Ferris died in 1971 having recorded oral histories of many parishes he served in  but his work encountered fierce resistance from high places, namely from Bishop Michael OBrien.

His refusal to make changes ordered by Bishop OBrien meant his collecting laid in libraries in Cork and Kerry for decades, but thanks to Mr McCarthy, its been making its way into the public realm, piece by piece, even though the editor needed to painstakingly organise what Fr Ferris left behind. This latest volume is the product of three years work.

In 2018, Brendan published the priests history of the parishes of Ballymacelligott, Ballyseedy, OBrennan, and Nohoval. Soon, well have a second volume entitled History of the Parishes of Rathmore, Gneeveguilla and Knocknagree. This is surely becoming an invaluable archive of local history and heritage in Kerry and Cork.

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I was overwhelmed by the response to the first book, Brendan told The Kerryman. I am still getting requests for copies five years later, even though it is now out of print.

The reason I believe this series has struck a chord is that the authentic voices of the ordinary people come through. You can hear it when they recount their history and heritage, their culture, their stories, their memories and their folklore.

This is not the story of lords and ladies or of aristocrats or generals but, in Fr Ferriss own words, it is the history of the people, by the people, for the people.

Believe it or not, the pull of our major towns and cities isnt a new thing; Fr Ferris saw it happening in the 1910s, 20s, and 30s, and he saw that every time the wind blew, it took an old seanchai with it. He started using Station Masses to collect material featuring history, recollections, memories, folklore, landscape lore, dinnseanchas, bealoideas, and more. He did so in several parishes.

Thanks to Brendan, Fr Ferriss work is finally getting the appreciation it deserves.

Brendan is due to receive the new book from printers in the coming weeks, with an eye to a launch in March or April, but you can pre-order a copy by e-mailing rathmorehistory@gmail.com.

During the 1910s, 20s and 30s, many of his elderly parishioners would have been born during or shortly after the Famine and, had he not recorded it, they would have taken their oral tradition to the grave with them, Brendan said in explaining the importance of Ferriss labour decades ago. Interestingly his initiative represented a folklore collecting endeavour years before the Irish Folklore Commission was established in 1935. He invested a huge amount of time and effort in this undertaking and, in doing so, he has done a great service to the people of Kerry and Cork.

He collected and recorded a vast trove of family genealogy; heritage and culture; schools and hedge schools; archaeology; placenames; Irish language; clergy; local poets; musicians and writers; the Famine; the Land War; the fight for Irish freedom and so much more.

Crucially, however, the books are fully indexed so, if you come from the parishes covered or if any of your forebears did, then it is quite likely your family features in these books. By reference to the index, you can readily discover where they lived, where they went to school, who their teachers were, who their landlord/middleman was, how they were affected by the Famine, whether they were evicted, whether they were involved in the Land War, and much, much more.

The book includes, among much more, a biographical piece on Fr Ferris by Brendan, who further explained that we can expect similar publication for the parishes of Firies, Millstreet, and Allihies in the years ahead.

Further information is available from rathmorehistory.com.
The Women 2000 group presenting a cheque for 3,300 to Kerry Parents and Friends, The amount was raised by the holding of a well attended coffee morning which was held in memory of their past member Helen Horgan who passed away in November 2021. ,Back L-R: Helen Murphy,Bridie Hassett,Evlyn O'Shea,Eve Bird,Lizzie Galvin,Marion Mahony,Nuala O'Keefe,Mary Fenton,Christine Kelly. Front L-R: Anita Galvin,Mary Foley,Teresa Brady,Marie Lenihan(KP&F) Carole Hannon,Christine Griffin, Barbara Brennan.Women 2000 would like to thank all who supported the event on the day, and the Horgan for their cooperation and support. Photo by Michael G Kenny

Front from l-r: Susan Healy, Frances O'Sullivan, with back from l-r: Noreen Cooper and Laura O'Sullivan enjoying the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

From l-r: Joan Moore and Mary O'Farrell enjoying the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

Margaret McGrath and Maria Neary enjoying the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

From l-r: Molly Ferris and Laura Tangney enjoying the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

From l-r: Sheila O'Donoghue, Mary O'Leary and Noreen Marshall enjoying the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

From left: John O'Connell, Muireann O'Donoghue, Eabha Lynch and Siobhan O'Connell pictured at the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday. Photo by Tatyana McGough

Some of the organisers of the Coffee Morning in aid of Clionas Foundation in the Old Weir Lodge, Muckross Road, Killarney on Sunday: Roisin O'Donoghue (from the right) with her children (from left): Muireann, Bebhinn, Reailtin. Photo by Tatyana McGough

Transition year is far from quiet for students Muireann ODonoghue and Sinead Byrne, who are using their time to help charity.

The two St Brigids Secondary School students are hoping to raise funds for their chosen charity, Clionas Foundation  an Irish charity that offers financial assistance to families with seriously sick children  and to date they have had huge success, raising more than 2,300 through a coffee morning last weekend.

As part of their support for the charity, they will walk a section of the Camino de Santiago later this year. This trip is self-financed.

They wanted to do something worthwhile during transition year...so they came up with the Camino trek charity fundraiser, explained Muireanns dad, Niall, who is supporting them in their plans.

The two students put a huge effort into raising a significant fund for the charity, and they have been blown away by the support they have received from the community, friends and family.
An example of art work at the new oncology facility at UHK.

The design of a new Oncology Unit at UHK.

The submission of the first stage in building design for a cutting-edge and permanent Oncology Unit at University Hospital Kerry (UHK) has been released.

While its anticipated the full design and construction of a stand-alone Oncology Unit will unfold in the coming years, UHK say the Stage 1 design stands as a pivotal moment in showcasing its commitment to advancing cancer treatment in the region.

The announcement is seen as a crucial advancement towards a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to cancer care that also signifies UHKs commitment to keeping the community informed in the process.

An example of art work at the new oncology facility at UHK.

In 2022, the Health Service Executive (HSE) granted approval for the 17 million Oncology Unit project, 2.2m of which has been dedicated to an interim Oncology Unit.

In a statement from UHK, it says a permanent Oncology Unit is envisioned to be a comprehensive facility catering for various aspects of cancer care.

The new facility will include such services as an Outpatient Unit, Dedicated Chemotherapy Suites, Isolation Facilities, Compounding Unit (Drug Preparation), Spacious Clinical Areas, Teaching and Research Facilities, Counselling and Support Rooms, and Treatment Rooms for Allied Health Professionals. The unit will also have its own car parking facilities.

The milestone project reflects the collaborative effort between UHK, the HSE, Comfort for Chemo Kerry, and the broader community to ensure that the people of Kerry have access to a world-class oncology service, thereby providing exceptional care, support, and hope to those facing the challenges of cancer.

Other projects at UHK can be viewed at www.uhk.ie
The cornsnake was found wandering around Kilkenny City near Nowlan Park

The National Reptile Zoo want to reunite the snake with it's owner. Photo: The National Reptile Zoo

A snake has gone on the run and escaped its owner in Co Kilkenny.

The cornsnake was found late last week in Kilkenny during the very cold weather and was dropped off at the National Reptile Zoo which is based in Kilkenny City.

The search is now under way to locate the snakes owner and reunite them with their lost pet.

He was found at Nowlan Park near the hurling stadium in Kilkenny City. We got a call to say a snake had been found in the area and we asked for a few photographs of the snake first so we could check if it was venomous. But the guy just turned up at the door of the reptile zoo about 30 minutes later with the snake in a bag, chuckled the Zoo Director, James Hennessy.

We have had venomous snakes dropped off to us in the past, so sometimes picking it up and catching it can be dangerous in case it is venomous.

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Luckily the snake was not a dangerous breed and was a common cornsnake.

"It was a cornsnake which is a North American breed and quite a common pet, explained James.

"The snake is a striped cornsnake that is just under 3ft long. Its not a rare snake, cornsnakes are bred in lots of different patterns for the pet trade, so this snake has a very specific colour and pattern. It is hard to guess the age of the snake but Im guessing it is at least two years old.

James added the owner of the snake must be living in Kilkenny City, near to where the snake was found as they dont tend to travel far.

"The snakes will travel maybe 500 metres to a kilometre, so the snake is probably from around the area it was found.

The Cornsnake is a common breed for a pet snake. Photo: The National Reptile Zoo

The cornsnake was lucky to be rescued as the cold weather meant it would not have lasted long fending for itself.

"It was found when it got to around minus six degrees during that really, really bad spell of cold weather. I dont think it had been outside for long because if it was exposed long term to that temperature, it would have died for sure.

"But the cornsnake is a North American species so they do get colder winters than us, but they do need to find a frost-free place to hibernate so it definitely should not have been out in the open in those temperatures because it definitely would have died.

Although this little snake was not dangerous, James would advise anyone who comes across a snake to make sure they know the breed of the snake before trying to catch it.

"If you are not familiar with what species the snake is definitely try take a picture of the snake first and give us a call. If you could cover it with a bucket or something like that in the short term that would be a good idea.

"But 99.9% of the time the snake is going to be a completely harmless species, but there has been cases where we have dealt with venomous snakes that have turned up so you are better off being extra careful.
Roisin Gilroy was the Head of Marketing and Business Development at St. Canices Credit Union in Kilkenny

Popular Kilkenny woman Roisin Gilroy has been remembered an amazing character who had a zest for life.

Roisin was a well-known member of the Kilkenny community and was Head of Marketing and Business Development at St. Canices Credit Union in Kilkenny.

St. Canices Credit Union were closed for a period of time this morning to allow staff to process the news of Roisins death. The branch has since reopened its doors.

On a post on social media this morning, the credit union paid their respects to their valued former colleague.

"It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of our dear friend and colleague Roisin Gilroy.

"We will miss her more than words can express. Our thoughts are with her husband Dave, her sister Karen, her brother Dave and her loving family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.

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"There is so much more to say about Roisin and her amazing contribution to the St. Canices Credit Union Community and we will try to do her justice in the coming days.

"For now we hope that our members will understand the short closure and will bear with us as we work through the next few days.

Since the news of Roisins passing broke, tributes have flooded in for the woman who did so much for the credit union movement.

One mourner wrote: Very sad news. Roisins zest for life was infectious. It was a pleasure and joy to have spent time in her company. Shell be a huge loss to the credit union movement.

Another said: Such a sad day for everyone who was lucky enough to have this legend in their lives.

Funeral arrangements have not been announced yet for Roisin.
A man who stashed tens of thousands in crime cash inside his socks and a jacket while claiming disability allowance and paying no tax has been jailed for three years by the Special Criminal Court.

Mr Justice Paul Burns, presiding in the three-judge court, said Dermot McManus had used money that was the proceeds of crime over a number of years for his own benefit. He said there was no evidence that he did so on behalf of an organised criminal group and held that the offending was in the lower end of the mid-range.

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Having set a headline sentence of five years, the judge considered McManus's guilty plea and the fact that he is blind in one eye and suffers from Crohn's disease. The judge sentenced McManus to four years with the final 12 months suspended on condition that he be of good behaviour. The court also ordered the forfeiture of cash seized by gardai and a Mercedes Sprinter van.

In July last year, McManus (53), of Keating Park, Killalee, Co Limerick, pleaded guilty to three charges relating to money laundering offences.

The defendant's arrest followed what gardai described as a significant development in Operation Coronation, which targeted organised crime in Co Limerick.

In September 2021, gardai carried out 65 raids in the county as part of the same operation, involving soldiers, detectives, customs officers and over 300 local gardai, with 12 people arrested.

At a sentencing hearing last year Detective Garda Chris McGrath, from Henry Street Garda Station, told Dominic McGinn SC, prosecuting, that the money laundering charges arose from a search that took place at the defendant's home address at Killalee on June 17, 2020.

The detective said information received from the Revenue Commissioners and social welfare showed that McManus was unemployed at the time of the search and on a single rate of disability allowance of 230 per week. Prior to this, the court heard, McManus was on job seekers allowance and had been last employed in 2002.

Det Gda McGrath said McManus' annual income on the date of the offence was short of 10,962. He said the defendant was not registered as a sole trader and had no history of paying tax.

The detective said a warrant was issued to search McManus' home address and that substantial amounts of cash had been found. Some of the amounts, he said, which totalled 28,550 and 11,795 were discovered in two separate socks as well as a jacket pocket in the wardrobe of the defendant's bedroom.

During the search, the detective said, McManus accepted he had lived in the house with his partner and two children. He also accepted the mortgage on the house had been paid off.

Det Gda McGrath said the defendant claimed he had worked for himself trading cars and had been out sick. "He accepted all the cash was his and claimed 9,550 was from working in markets and that 10,000 was from the sale of a van," said the witness.

Mr McGinn said the prosecution's position was that the monies derived from criminal conduct and not from market trading or trading in cars, which the witness agreed with.

The detective said it transpired from the search that the defendant had a credit union account which was set up in 1998. Enquiries were made by gardai and a freezing order was placed on the account, which had a balance of 10,173 at the time.

Det Gda McGrath said the defendant had made frequent lodgements into the account and the total amount of the lodgements was 59,032. The total amount of withdrawals amounted to 53,591. "The coincidence with the lodgements is that withdrawals took place quickly afterwards which is a sign of money laundering," said counsel.

Mr McGinn said McManus was also in possession of a Mercedes Sprinter van in June 2020, which had a market value of 10,500. Gardai found the previous registered owner of the van was a man that the defendant had known for just over a month, the court heard.

The detective said that gardai had observed the van parked outside the defendant's home since early 2020. The defendant claimed he had bought the van from someone in northern Ireland for 4,500, continued the witness.

At the end of the search McManus was arrested and interviewed by gardai, where he accepted that he owned the house and had paid off the mortgage. He repeated to detectives that he was unemployed, had worked in a market selling quilts and pillows and had received a sick benefit of 190 a week. He also accepted that he didn't pay taxes.

The court heard that McManus has 22 previous convictions. At a previous hearing it was said that McManus was convicted of burglary but the prosecution today accepted that McManus was in fact convicted of receiving property that had been stolen during a burglary.

McManus pleaded guilty to handling sums of cash worth 28,550 and 11,795, knowing or believing or being reckless as to whether this was the proceeds of criminal conduct on June 17, 2020.

Between January 1, 2018, and June 17, 2020, the defendant admitted he handled or used money credited to an account in his own name at the Limerick and District Credit Union, knowing or believing or being reckless as to whether it was the proceeds of criminal conduct.

McManus also pleaded guilty to handling a white Mercedes Sprinter van between June 2, 2020, and May 23, 2021.
A man who purchased luxury items, including a Rolex watch, using laundered money worth 51,000 has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Dragos Cirstea (38), formerly of South Street, New Ross, Wexford, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering offences at various locations in Dublin on June 3, 2019. He has four previous convictions from the UK.

Passing sentence on Friday, Judge Martin Nolan said this man was involved in the theft of property and used a bank card to purchase high-end items.

Judge Nolan said, This man knew what he was doing was wrong, and he had a relevant conviction history. He said he has a good work history and is well capable of changing his life.

The judge said the mitigation in this case were his guilty plea and that Cirstea did not seem to be a well-off person. However, he said this man was a vital link in this criminal enterprise. He also highlighted that Adare Manor sustained the loss in this case.

Judge Nolan said the appropriate sentence is two and a half years in prison, and directed he receive credit for time served in custody for this matter.

Detective Garda Darren Lyons told John Berry, BL, prosecuting, that a Belgium Vintage Automobile Club planned to travel to Ireland and stay in Adare Manor. The club received an invoice, which they believed was from the hotel, for just over 55,000, which they paid.

Det Gda Lyons said the 55,000 was lodged into a bank account which had been set up two weeks before this. The court heard Cirstea did not set up this bank account, and did not send the email that contained the fraudulent invoice.

The court heard that Cirstea's participation in the offending occurred when he was given a bank card and went to Brown Thomas, Arnotts, and Weir and Sons in Dublin and spent a total of 51,044 on luxury items. He spent a total of just over 44,000 in Weirs and Sons on jewellery and two watches, one of which was a Rolex.

The court heard the Belgium Vintage Automobile Club became aware that the money they had paid did not go to Adare Manor, and an investigation was launched. Purchases using a bank card linked to the fraudulent bank account were traced.

The accused was identified, and gardai discovered that there was an active EU arrest warrant from the United Kingdom for him. Cirstea was arrested at Dublin Airport in December 2019 and was extradited to the United Kingdom for a similar offence.

He was later returned to Ireland on foot of an EU arrest warrant issued by Irish authorities. The court heard that none of the luxury items were recovered.

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The court heard that Adare Manner decided to take the loss and accommodated the Belgium Vintage Automobile Club at their hotel.

Det Gda Lyons agreed with Oisin Clarke, BL, defending, that his client's role in the offending was to go and carry out the purchases, and he didnt benefit from the scheme.

The garda agreed with counsel that Cirstea had no trapping of wealth and was cooperative with the gardai.

Mr Clarke said his client had previously worked in the UK and Italy and came to Ireland to seek work but could not find any. He was approached by an individual and carried out the purchases.

Counsel said his client, who is in custody on this matter, is now an enhanced prisoner.
Wexford Gardai have been made aware of a veiled threat made against one of Irelands biggest haulage firms, hours after a major fire ripped through an industrial estate which is home to their Welsh offices.

Nolan Transport was on the receiving end of a veiled threat from an anti-immigrant Facebook page following the fire on Friday night.

A 25-year-old man was arrested in the UK following the blaze, which originated in the neighbouring Owens Group warehouse in the Bridgend Industrial Estate in Wales.

It is understood that the fire spread to neighbouring properties, including Nolan Transport, with the Owens Group offering sincere apologies for all of our fellow businesses in the immediate area who have been impacted by this unfortunate incident.

Many posting on social media over the weekend mistakenly believed that it was Nolan Transports premises in Wexford that was the epicentre of the blaze, with one particular threatening and baseless post from an anti-migrant page the subject of a complaint to Gardai.

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"Nolan Transport Wexford bussing fakeugees around Ireland against our wishes, the sinister post read.

"The message is clear if you ignore and betray us Irish people. You are putting yourself and your business and premises at risk.

When it was pointed out that the location of the fire was in Wales, the poster went on to update.

"Wales has taken in too many too," the updated post said. People are out protesting on their streets over there too with regards their safety and the sky high amount of fakeugees.

The page then went on to post a YouTube link to the song Disco Inferno by The Trammps with the caption Burn baby burn" and a series of laughing emojis.

When contacted for comment, a spokesperson for Nolan Transport said: Someone is after getting the wrong end of the stick. It wasnt our premises at all.

The spokesperson declined to comment further in relation to any damage that may have been caused to their premises.

Suitably concerned with a rise of far-right rhetoric online and a number of high-profile incidents which have seen properties set alight around the country in recent times, Wexford Sinn Fein councillor Tom Forde has personally raised the content of this particular post with An Garda Siochana.

"Its unacceptable for any individual or group to be inciting violence against any business or person, he said. In my view it's a threat anyway and its incitement.

"I do not believe for one minute that any Wexford person would believe in putting the lives or property of a good local employer at risk in this manner.

"Many people have differences of opinion with government policy and the way to challenge that is to use your voice in protest and use your vote, not to hide behind a page and to threaten others.

Cllr Forde conceded that it can be hard for gardai to establish the individuals behind these anonymous Facebook pages, but stressed the importance of taking action against accounts that incite violence.

"I think this type of thing needs to be taken seriously, Cllr Forde concluded.
Aoife Rose O'Brien will run for Sinn Fein in the Rosslare district at next year's local elections.

Sinn Fein candidate for the Rosslare Municipal District (RMD) Aoife Rose OBrien has called upon the government to tackle the national mental health crisis before our local communities lose yet more loved ones.

Ms OBrien, who has spoken openly about her own experiences within the mental health services, said that the coalition parties were skilled in producing soundbites on the severity of this issue without actually doing anything about it.

While it continues to speak about its concern for peoples mental health, I would like to know what actions the government is going to take to tackle the crisis we have been facing for quite some time, she said.

The most recent figures show the frightening reality in Ireland today: three in five people have suffered from depression and four in five from anxiety.

Knowing this, the government has chosen to underfund our mental health services. The effect of this has been seen in Wexford recently with the closure of The Ford Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre; one which supported our people for over three decades.

With lengthy public waiting lists and private services out of the reach of many, Ms OBrien believes further funding is required to address a problem which impacts every corner of the country.

I cannot understand how we are going to reduce these frightening figures if our government refuse to support our life saving services. Regular roll over funding is essential and our mental health needs must be prioritised here.

Our community has lost too many loved ones as a result of the neglect these services experience. It is crucial that extra funding be allocated in order for these services to meet the demand and reduce lengthy wait lists.

We deserve a government which cares about our mental health and wellbeing."
Some 24 new courses aimed at helping employees upskill, ranging from digital, robotics, aquaculture, business innovation and market development, have just been launched and are available through the local Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board at little or no cost to employers.

Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris with Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail announced the roll-out of the new courses, which are aimed at helping employees further education and future-proof businesses.

The new micro-qualifications are short, stackable micro qualification programmes that are delivered locally by the network of 16 Education and Training Boards across the country and developed collaboratively with industry.

The qualifications are aimed at employees with little or no cost to employers, and in areas such as sustainability, digital, robotics, aquaculture, business innovation and market development, and are set to expand to meet demand.

All programmes are fully accredited and lead to a Level 4, 5 and 6 Special Purpose Awards on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).

Commenting on the launch, Minister Harris, said: "The provision of accessible and flexible upskilling opportunities that can meet the demands of both business and work is critical for both employees and employers.

"In our constantly changing world of work, these micro-qualifications mark a fundamental transformation in our response to the upskilling needs of enterprise, acknowledging the necessity for employees and employers to meet the demands of the modern workplace.

This is especially timely as we continue to deliver on strong objectives in the European Year of Skills, a year where we are encouraging individuals to avail of upskilling and reskilling opportunities.

"Targeted initiatives such as these micro-qualifications are delivering for employees and employers, both in supporting them to excel in their chosen fields, while also addressing Irelands critical skills gaps.

Minister Richmond described the import of the new courses which will help fill skills gaps in a range of sectors.

Upskilling is central to our ever-changing work environment, allowing employees to stay competitive, boost their productivity and adapt to challenges such as digitalisation and climate change, while future-proofing our businesses.

Skills gaps are impacting many businesses and by providing training in a range of areas, from robotics to sustainability and more to come, FET micro-qualifications will work to address these gaps for businesses while benefitting and upskilling workers.

The result of strong collaboration between the FET sector and businesses, FET micro-qualifications will be transformative for businesses and employees across the country.

The programmes have been created in collaboration with SOLAS, the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs), QQI, ISME, SFA, Chambers, the Environmental Protection Agency, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Irish Water, IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, and the Regional Skills Fora.

SOLAS was established under the Further Education and Training Act as an agency of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. Chief Executive, Andrew Brownlee said: FET Micro-Qualifications will ensure that enterprise remains responsive to meet the rapidly changing world of work, advances in technology and our commitments to tackling climate change.

This ground breaking nationwide provision of short stackable FET micro-qualifications through the ETB network will deliver fully accredited upskilling opportunities at local level across the country, empowering learners to flourish in their chosen careers while upskilling staff in line with future business needs. The days of doing a block of education from age 18-21 that will serve you throughout your chosen vocation are gone  this initiative reflects the need for a dip in, dip out education and training system that facilitates the continual upskilling and reskilling now required throughout lifetimes and careers.

The collaborative partnership between SOLAS, the ETBs and industry has been key to delivering this targeted suite of upskilling programmes. With over 60,000 people having upskilled through Skills to Advance programmes nationwide since 2019, the potential for roll-out and delivery of FET micro-qualifications to Irish enterprise at local level through the ETB network is vast.

To find what is on offer in your local area you can contact Bernice McLaughlin at KWETB, on 0873592776 or email: bernicemclaughlin@kwetb.ie

More information can be found at: solas.ie
Some of the raffle prizes on offer as part of the Arklow Cancer Support truck run fundraiser on Saturday, January 27.

Bernie Phaid will perform at the Bridge Hotel in Arklow on Thursday, January 25.

1 FASHION SHOW FOR WILLS PLAYGROUND: The Cosmopolitan Fashion Show to support Wills Playground takes place at the Newcastle Parish Centre at 7.30pm, on Saturday, January 27. Tickets are priced 25 and there are cocktails included. This fashion show is not your run-of-the-mill event as you can get to choose from the clothes that have been donated and take them home with you. Once youve paid your fee, you can browse through all the clothes on show and claim anything which takes your fancy.

The theme for the night is very straightforward  its pink. Wills Playground is in memory of Will Leeson, a much-loved school pupil and active member of the community, who sadly passed away on October 15, 2021, when he was just eight years old. His parents, Andrew and Julie, and sister Emily, wanted to build something as an enduring legacy for a happy, playful child, a place of play at St Francis National School where he enjoyed his time with his friends. The family has currently reached just over 55,000 of a 65,000 goal so your support is needed to get them over the line. If you have clothes you would like to donate for the clothes swap event, go to the Wills Playground Facebook page for details.

2 TRUCK RUN FUNDRAISER: A Light up your Truck fundraiser in aid of Arklow Cancer Support will be held by the East Coast Night Truck Run starting at the Aughrim Community Field on Saturday, January 27 at 6.30 p.m.

OTooles pub in Aughrim will host a night of music after the race, with a bumper raffle on the night and a free drivers draw.

Secure overnight parking for anyone wishing to stay over will be available, with light refreshments served at the run.

For further information, contact Denis on 087 238 7216, email djnewsome62@gmail.com or visit the East Coast Night Truck Run Facebook page.

3 TRAD NIGHT: Arklow Roots Music will present an intimate concert of Irish music at the Bridge Hotel in Arklow on Tuesday, January 24, at 8.30 p.m.

Featuring recording artist Bernie Phaid from The Dingle Peninsula, accompanied by guitarist Dave Clancy, and local trio John Stafford, Denis Nolan and Catherine Noone will provide support.

Admission is on a donation basis on the night. Reserve your place at eventbrite.ie

4 POTTERY WITH HILARY JENKINSON: Hilary Jenkinson has been creating pots for over 30 years under her studio name Crannmor Pottery.

She will hold a workshop in the library in Wicklow town on Friday, January 26, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Each participant will be shown hand-building techniques and make at least one piece of work which will then be fired. A collection date will be arranged on the day.

Anyone wishing to take part can register on eventbrite.ie.

5 WALK AND TALK GROUP: Bray Sanctuary Runners have started up the new monthly Bray Walk and Talk group, with the first event taking place on Thursday January 25, at 7pm from the Queen of Peace Church Car Park, Bray. Subsequent walks will take place on Thursday February 29, March 28, April 25 and May 30. The social group is open to all and no levels of fitness are required to take part. The Sanctuary Runners enable Irish residents to run alongside, and in solidarity with, migrants, asylum seekers and refugees thereby fostering friendship, positivity and respect while bringing greater awareness to the migration system. A non-profit, and multi-award-winning movement they use these events to build sustainable bridges between communities and to show that we are all equal.

6 FULL MOON GATHERING: Serenity Natural Therapies and Crann Siog Healing will hold a Full Moon Gathering at The Assembly Hall, Bachelors Walk, Wicklow town on Thursday, January 25, from 8.30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Bring along a yoga mat, blanket, pillow and whatever you need to be warm and comfy. Bring as much as you like with you because your comfort is so important.

Hot drinks will be available on the night so also bring along a bottle of water for during and after the sound healing to stay hydrated.

The event is free but donations would be welcome to cover the costs of the space rental and heating.

All are welcome to attend and no previous experience is required.

A return to the beautiful Travelahawk Beach will take place as soon as the weather improves.

If youd like to be added to the Full Moon Gathering WhatsApp group please contact Christina on 0851604255 or Emma on 0831422034 to let them know. If you have any questions, feel free to drop either of them a message.

7 LIBRARY SESSIONS FOR YOUNG KIDS: Blessington Library is hosting a range of free events this week for young children with no booking required.

On Thursday, January 25, at 11.30 a.m., babies aged 0 - 12 months or babies who havent started to crawl can enjoy the beautiful projections and sounds of the librarys interactive Magic Table at Tummy Time.

Toddler Time, taking place on Fridays at 11.30 a.m. is for ages 1 to 3, with children free to read, play with toys and experience the magic table.

On Saturday at 11.30 a.m., children aged 3 to 6 can enjoy the Storytime Sessions, which include classic tales and new works from beloved authors.
Deadly blast kills 25 in attack on Russian-held Ukraine city

Two children were among the injured in long-range shelling of market in the outskirts of Donetsk

A man mourns his wife who was killed in a strike while working at a food market in Donetsk in Ukraine. Photo: Alexander Ermochenko

James Kilner  Telegraph.co.uk Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 03:30







A strike on a crowded market in the Russian-occupied cityof Donetsk in eastern Ukraine has killed at least 27 people, according to Moscow-backed officials.
Benjamin Netanyahu calls Hamas monsters after Gaza peace offer

Israeli prime minister faces UN criticism over refusal to consider two-state solution

The family of Liraz Assulin, who was killed during the October 7 attack by Hamas gunmen, creates a memorial for her, near Kibbutz Kfar Aza in southern Israel. Photo: Reuters

Samy Magdy Mon 22 Jan 2024 at 03:30







Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected an offer by Hamas to end the war and release hostages in return for Israels complete withdrawal to leave the terrorist group in power in Gaza.
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.
Nasa has received its first set of funding to develop a giant airplane that could fly high in the planets atmosphere and look for signs of water on the Red Planet.
Photo Courtesy: wikipedia.org

Colombo/IBNS: Ninety-one percent of Sri Lankan children have received measles vaccines, a crucial step in combating a recent resurgence of the disease after eradication, Health Minister Ramesh Pathirana said on Monday.

Addressing a press conference at the Presidential Media Centre, Pathirana outlined further health priorities for 2024, saying that disease prevention takes centre stage with plans to bolster primary healthcare services and improve efficiency for patients.

Earlier this year, UNICEF, together with WHO, supported the Ministry of Health in implementing a supplementary measles immunisation activity (SIA) in Sri Lanka aimed at controlling the ongoing measles outbreak, with over 700 measles cases reported in the country since May 2023, according to a UNICEF report.

The SIA was launched in two phases; the first phase commenced on January 6, targeting 69-month-olds in nine identified districts with a high population density, where measles cases were reported, including Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Kandy, Jaffna, Kurunegala, and Kalmunai.

The second phase was initiated on January 20 and will be extended to other age groups across the country.

The minister said tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remains a major challenge, as over 20 percent of Sri Lankans battle diabetes and the country has a high prevalence of high blood pressure.

Amid a rapidly ageing population, Sri Lanka is proactively addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases like memory impairment, eye diseases, and bone diseases through dedicated programmes, said Pathirana.

Dengue fever, another pressing concern, is being tackled with special efforts, seeking increased public collaboration alongside support from health and security departments, said Pathirana.

Recognising the existing drug shortage, the government is actively importing essential medicines, with shortages gradually decreasing, according to the minister.

In 1984, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine was added to Sri Lanka's immunisation programme.

Sri Lanka was declared measles-free by the WHO in 2019 after a second dose of the vaccine was administered in 2001 to boost population immunity.

But from 2020 to 2022, there was a notable decline in the vaccination rate worldwide, which affected many countries in the region and resulted in a rise in measles cases, including in Sri Lanka.

(With UNI/Xinhua inputs)
Photo Courtesy: PIB

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reached the much-awaited consecration or pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in the north Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday, a mega religious event which is seen by many as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's attempt to launch its campaign ahead of the national polls. Pran Pratishtha rituals began around noon.

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.

Temple site was an issue of bitter contest between Hindus, Muslims

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.

 @rashtrapatibhvn ,



      -         -                             https://t.co/GdPmx6cluS  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2024

A majority 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.

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.

Mega event ahead of Lok Sabha polls

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.

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.
Photo Courtesy: Screen Grab from Youtube

Wearing traditional dresses, holding saffron flags and dancing, the Indian diaspora members celebrated the much-anticipated pran pratishtha or consecration ceremony at the iconic Times Square in New York on Sunday.

Pictures of Lord Ram were displayed on the screens at Times Square.

Mega event in Ayodhya today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the much-awaited consecration or pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in the north Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday, a mega religious event which is seen by many as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's attempt to launch its campaign ahead of the national polls.

Times Square, New York. The entire world has become Ram-may..



pic.twitter.com/aHgCy6xULv  Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) January 22, 2024

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.

Temple site was an issue of bitter contest between Hindus, Muslims

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.

     



Times Square, New York pic.twitter.com/SDVIxaG6d5  Sambit Patra (@sambitswaraj) January 22, 2024

A majority 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.

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.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from X video

Ayodhya/IBNS: Scripting history, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the much-awaited Ram Temple and unveiled the Ram Lalla idol in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya.

Modi was accompanied by RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the rituals, which were performed by the Prime Minister.

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.

A majority 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.

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.

Photo courtesy: X/@BJP4India

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.
Photo Courtesy: PIB

An MoU has been signed between India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Cuba's Ministry of Communications in the field of 'Sharing Successful Digital Solutions Implemented at Population Scale for Digital Transformation' on January 19 in New Delhi.

The signatories were S Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY from Indias side and Wilfredo Gonzalez Vidal, First Deputy Minister of Communications, from Cubas side.

"The MoU intends to promote digital transformation (viz. INDIA STACK) through Capacity Building programs, exchange of best practices and other collaborative activities to mutually benefit the digital ecosystems of both countries," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

India sid it will collaborate with Cuba by building upon a development partnership on digital transformation leading to a smooth adoption of Digital Public Infrastructure in Cuba.
Photo courtesy: Facebook/Mamata Banerjee

Kolkata/IBNS: As India celebrated the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram at his janmabhoomi (birthplace) in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee led an all-faith rally in Kolkata sending a message of secularism ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing the rally, Banerjee said: "Today, as I marched at the Sanhati rally, my belief was reaffirmed that beneath the surface of rituals and faith, we share something common to each one of us, and that is the religion of Humanity."

"Bengal has always stood for religious harmony, and whenever the demons of divisive politics attempt to erode the sacred unity binding this nation, we shall fight against all such forces with our heads held high."

During her rally, Banerjee met people from all faiths and offered prayers at the Kalighat Temple, a church as well as a Gurudwara in the Park circus area.

Meanwhile, hundreds of devotees and BJP karyakartas held a separate rally in the streets of this city, blowing the conch shells and beating the drums to mark the historic occasion.

The rally in the central part of the city wore a colourful jamboree as the people clad in saffron attire and bandanas on their heads marched the streets Chanting Jay Shree Ram, Jay Jay Shree Ram.

A band of women in costumes was seen beating the drums, which is normally seen during the celebration of Durga Puja, The celebration rally was headed by the leader of the opposition in the West.

Bengal Assembly Speaker Suvendu Adhikari and other BJP leaders also distributed sweets among the participants and onlookers.

"The day has finally come. I feel fortunate to be alive today, and find myself immersed in devotion as I will be able to witness Shri Ram's return to his rightful Adobe after more than 5 centuries, "Adhikari said in his X post.

"The Holy Pran Pratishtha Ceremony at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya Dham will be graced by the majestic 'Mangal Dhwani' which will fill the Universe with unique and unparalleled emotions never felt before. May Lord Ram, bless one and all. Siyavar Ramchandra Ki Jai Pawan Sut Hanuman Ki Jai Jai Shree Ram," Adhikari added.

Saffron Sunami in Kolkata 



Sanatani Shova-Yatra from Shri Baikunth Nath Temple to Shri Ram Temple to honour Lord Ram's homecoming at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya Dham.



What a day, what a moment. We have waited for this moment for centuries.

Jai Shri Ram  pic.twitter.com/gr4nCbBQfm  Suvendu Adhikari    (@SuvenduWB) January 22, 2024

He said, "Saffron Tsunami in Kolkata Sanatani Shova-Yatra from Shri Baikunth Nath Temple to Shri Ram Temple to honour Lord Ram's homecoming at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya Dham. What a day, what a moment! We have waited. for this moment for centuries. Jai Shri Ram."

In a grand ceremony that was witnessed by millions not just across the country but globally too, PM Modi inaugurated Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Uttar Pradesh's temple town Ayodhya.

Invoking Ram with inclusive national consciousness and referring to India's solar and lunar missions for the youth urging them to combine tradition with modernity, Modi addressed thousands of people, including the country's top celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Katrina Kaif, Alia Bhatt, Rajinikanth, Sachin Tendulkar, at the ceremony which is widely viewed as a slow start to the campaigning for the upcoming General Elections.

Eleven days after beginning fasting for the ceremony, Modi arrived at the grand Ram Temple, where the dignitaries have been flocking in since the morning, at around 12 noon and went on to perform the rituals for the consecration ceremony.

During the entire time of rituals, Modi was flanked by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and very significantly Mohan Bhagwat, who is the head of the ruling BJP's ideological patron Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
In a world that champions the ideals of free speech and condemns hate speech, the Wests silence in the wake of Gurpatwant Singh Pannuns open and violent death threats is both perplexing and concerning. Pannun, a designated Khalistani terrorist, has brazenly issued threats against the Chief Ministers of Delhi and Punjab, yet the international community remains shamefully silent.

Whats perplexing is this is not the first violent rant of Pannuns. Last year he openly called for an attack on Air India flights, and subsequently he threatened an attack on the Indian parliament.

Free speech is a cornerstone of democratic societies, but it is not an unbridled license to spew hate speech and incite violence. Pannuns recent video message, in which he threatens political death to Chief Ministers Arvind Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann if his associates are not released, should ring alarm bells not just in India but across the globe. As former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton astutely remarked, You cant have snakes in your backyard and expect them not to bite you.

SFJ associates, Jagdish Singh, Manjeet Singh, and Davinder Singh, were apprehended by the State Special Operation Cell of Punjab Police. Pannun alleges they were working directly with the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) for Khalistan referendums voter registration. His threats are not isolated incidents; they are part of a pattern of violent rhetoric that poses a clear danger to the security and stability of the region.

The Wests silence on Pannuns threats is particularly troubling given the global commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the safety of nations. Pannuns call for an attack on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav cannot be dismissed lightly. These are not idle words but dangerous incitements that have the potential to unleash chaos and destabilize the peace-loving citizens of Punjab and beyond.

While Chief Minister Mann has chosen not to take these threats seriously, the international community cannot afford to be as complacent. The Wests failure to condemn Pannuns actions sends a troubling message  that terrorism and violent threats are tolerable if they are not occurring within ones borders. Such a stance undermines the collective effort to ensure global security and stability.

It is essential for the West to acknowledge that free speech should never be a shield for those who exploit it to spread hate and advocate violence. The principles of democracy, which the West holds dear, must not be weaponized to shield terrorists and those who threaten political leaders with impunity.

As Pannun continues to openly defy the norms of civilized discourse, the Wests silence becomes increasingly conspicuous. The international community must stand united against all forms of terrorism, irrespective of geographical boundaries. The West cannot afford to turn a blind eye to Pannuns brazen threats; doing so jeopardizes the very values it claims to uphold. Its time for the West to break its silence and unequivocally condemn Pannuns actions before his words translate into tragic consequences for the region and beyond.

(Image and text courtesy: Khalsavox.com)
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Lord Ram, whose grand temple adorns Ayodhya now, has been a muse for Urdu poets, or more accurately poets in general. He served as a metaphor for ideals that religion and poetry bestow on a person chosen to nurse and defend faith.

Maryada Purushottam Ram served as a perfect foil for musings of principles and preet (love).

Ram Katha (telling stories of Lord Ram) has in fact been a folk tradition, especially in the Awadh region, on the lines of marsiya (elegy), etc. Odes to Ram have been written as much passion and precision as they have been written for any other religious figures.

Not only stray couplets in honour of Ram, Urdu poets have attempted the whole epic of Ramayana in Urdu poetry. In fact, Ramayana, originally in verse, has been written both in verse and prose by Urdu writers.

Delhi-based noted literary historian Rakshanda Jalil has discovered that there are over 300 Ramayanas written in Urdu, many in Urdu verse known as manzum Ramayanas.

Photo Courtesy: Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra

Urdu poetry is replete with long poems written about various incidents mentioned in the Ramayana: Rams separation from his parents, his love for his wife Sita, separation of Sita from him, injury to his beloved brother Lakshman and his return to Ayodhya as a triumphant prince. All have been etched in exquisite words.

Before Urdu became lingua franca of northern India, philosophers and poets used local dialects and parlance to disseminate easy-to-understand tales of Ramayana. They were written in easy idioms, but carried very the essence of the epic in a profound way.

Most notable Muslim name who wielded his pen in reverence of Hindu deities was perhaps Abdurrahim Khankhana, one of the nine jewels of Emperor Akbars court. In respect of his saintly qualities, he was known as Rahimdas.

Rahim was in fact saviour of popular tales of Rama as rendered by Saint Tulsidas.

Rahim and Tulsidas were companions. The Pandits were furious as Tulsidas composed Valmikis Sanskrit in local lingo and so when the Pandits attempted to harm him, Rahim gave Tulsidas shelter in the mosque. Tulsidas wrote about this in these couplets:

Tulsi sarnam ghulamu hai ramko, jako rache sau kahe kuch au-ooMangi ke khebo, massetko saibo, laiboko aiku, na deboko daioo (I am Tulsi, Ramas slave; you say anything you like; I beg and eat; I sleep in the mosque; I am unconcerned.)

Rahim was an authority over Ramayana, Mahabharata, and eighteen Puranas.

The Rama of Rahim is similar to Tulsis Rama, the protector of the poor and refugees. Through his dohas (couplets), Rahim reveals how deeply Ramas story has inspired people as he presents small events from around the world with great skill and evidence.

Ooche kaam bade karein, tau na badai hoye,

Jyun Raheemhanumant ko girdhar kahe na koye

(Man doesnt lose status by doing any minion job

Like Hanumanji is not looked down upon as carrier of mountain)

One of the most popular rendering on Ram has surprisingly been written by Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the foremost poet of the subcontinent controversially termed as ultra Islamist. His Ram-e-Hind (Ram of India) sculpts image of Ram in the attributes for which he is known as Maryada Purushottam. For Iqbal, Ram is the pride of India.

Labrez hai sharaab-e haqiqat se jaam-e Hind,

Sab falsafi hain khitta-e maghrib ke Ram-e Hind

(The goblet of Hind is brimming with the wine of reality

All the philosophers of the West are taken in by Ram of Hind)

Iqbal idolises Ram as epitome of truth or reality and thus he erects him as an ideal mix of practical ideas that even western philosophers couldnt produce in their imaginations. For Iqbal, Ram, if he is truly discerned by people of insight, can be a lodestar of leadership.

Hai Ram ke wajood pe Hindostan ko naaz

Ahl-e-Nazar samajhte hain usko Imam-e-Hind

(India can always be proud of name of Ram

People of insight see in him leader of India)

Iqbal was a Kashmiri Brahmin by descent. Another Kashmiri Brahmin, Pundit Braj Narayan Chakbast weaved a scene of Ramayana into a popular poem: Ramayan Ka Eik Scene. This short epic depicts the atmosphere when Ram takes leave of his parents while embarking on the cursed banvaas (separated life in jungles) for 14 years. The poem is especially a tribute to love between Ram and his mother Kaushalya.

Uska karam shareek hai to gham nahii

Daamaan-e dasht daaman-e maadar se kam nahii

(If one has His divine blessings one can know no sorrow

The hem of wilderness is no less than a mothers hem)

The word banvaas, spelt out in different ways as ban-vas or banwas became a catchword to capture any kind of intense separation in Urdu poetry. It also found currency in day to day parlance too and we can often hear it in our conversation.

Similarly, the incident of abduction of Sita by Raavan, known as Sitaharan, also caught poets eye and long poems were written just elaborate this incident through myriad prisms. Munshi Banwari Lal Shola, a north Indian poet who was disciple of Mirza Hargopal Tafta, who himself was a disciple of great Mirza Ghalib, wrote a defining poem on this particular incident: Sita Haran. The poem evokes delicate and compassionate side of Sita who out of her kind-heartedness crossed the Lakshman Rekha drawn for her security.

Bahar jo kundli se chaliin dhoka khaa gayii

Raavan ke chhal mein hai maharani aa gayii

(The moment she stepped out of the circle she was entrapped

Hai, the queen was beguiled by the deception of Raavan)

Another poem that brings such scenes or sequences from Ramayana to life is Betal Barelwis masnavi on Ramayana.

It is a perfect example of the composite culture (Ganga Jamuna Tehzeeb) of those days. He has used both Hindi and Urdu words in his poetry in perfect concinnity, intermingled beautifully, something like what Amir Khusaru wrote in his famous ghazal  Jehaal Miskin Makum Taghaful -- where the first line is in Persian and the second in Hindustani.

One example is when Barelwi sketches out the scene when Shravan Kumar is hit by the arrow of Raja Dashrath, father of Lord Ram. Barelvi writes in Farsi interwoven with Hindi -- describing the scene where Shravan Kumar having been badly wounded by Dashraths arrow and about to die, requests Dashrath to take water immediately for his blind parents who were all alone in the wilderness.

Mata pita kubool ho Shravan ki Ram Ram

Paani pilau kya nki hua kaam hi tamaam

Chagal se pehle bhar diya umr-e-rawan ne jam

Qatil ke haath bhej raha hoon yehi paigham

(Dear parents, please accept my greetings, Ram Ram

how should I bring water for you, for Im about to die

This ever-flowing life has filled my goblet before time

and I am forced to send you message by my murderer)

Poems about small incidents taken from Ramayana are numerous and are sung and enacted in stage dramas throughout India.

While a whole corpus, from where above examples have been culled, exist eulogising ideal characteristics of heroes of the epic and denouncing the evils, there are some which calls for realist evaluation of the epic and warn against the politicisation of mythology for personal gains. It denotes those indulge in such selfish acts as shar-pasand.

There is one such poem titled just Ram. Its been penned by Rahbar Jaunpuri. While enumerating the many good qualities including his love for peace, harmony and truth, tells us why the land of Hindustan is proud of him.

In walking the path of loyalty, Ram has become an enduring symbol of self-sacrifice just as Raavan has come to embody the shar-pasand, those who like evil.

Rasm-o-rivaaj-e Ram se aari hain shar-pasand

Raavan ki nitiyon ke pujari hain shar-pasand

(Those who like evil are bereft of the traditions of Ram

They are the worshippers of the practices of Raavan)

The tale of Ram, Imam-e-Hind, is thus ceaseless.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from X video

Ayodhya/IBNS: Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma and her cricketer husband Virat Kohli were among the celebrities who were invited to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple consecration in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya on Monday.

Though various celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal and others were spotted arriving at the Ram Temple, Anushka and Virat were not seen.

Now a picture has been trending on X where a lady with sunglasses was spotted. Netizens think the lady is Anushka.

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.

A majority 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.

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 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.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from X video

Ayodhya/IBNS: Tamil superstar Rajinikanth has arrived at the Ram Mandir in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya for the grand consecration of the temple.

Rajinikanth has already taken a seat in the Ram Temple.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the much-awaited consecration or pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in the north Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday, a mega religious event which is seen by many as the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's attempt to launch its campaign ahead of the national polls.

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.

#WATCH | Superstar Rajinikanth arrives at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony pic.twitter.com/1ii6iCsdQ1  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

A majority 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.

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 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.
Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to visit Pyongyang soon, North Korea's state media KCNA said on Sunday (January 21, 2024).

According to KCNA as quoted by TASS news agency, 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, the Russian news agency reported.

North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui visited Russia last week and met Putin and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited Russia last year.

He met Putin at the Vostochny Spaceport on Sept 13.

During his visit to Russia, Kim also visited the Gagarin Aviation Plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, the Knevichi Airport, and the Marshal Shaposhnikov frigate.

The USA earlier this month claimed North Korea supplied ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said during a press briefing: " Our information indicates that the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea recently provided Russia with ballistic missile launchers and several [dozen] ballistic missiles."

He said Russia used them during the ongoing conflict against Ukraine.

"This is a significant and concerning escalation in the DPRKs support for Russia," Kirby said.

"Now, in return for its support, we assess that Pyongyang is seeking military assistance from Russia, including fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, armored vehicles, ballistic missile production equipment or materials, and other advanced technologies. This would have concerning security implications for the North  Im sorry  for the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region," he said.

Russia, however, denied the collaboration.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

Several hateful contents have started to circulate on social media targeting the religious minority communities of the country ahead of the February 8 general polls in Pakistan.

A fatwa  a legal ruling by Islamic scholars  issued by a Karachi-based seminary earlier in the day, regarding minority candidates resurfaced on Facebook and X platforms suggesting voters prefer Muslim candidates over the ones belonging to minorities, reported The News International.

Jamia Uloom Islamia, New Town, famously known as Jamia Binori Town, reportedly issued the Fatwa.

The religious school is considered as an influential seminary of the country.

Chaman Lal, a minority rights activist, shared an image of the undated decree on Facebook stating: "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."

The fatwa in question was issued after a query: "Is it permitted under Islamic laws to vote for a non-Muslim candidate?"

In response, the fatwa said: "The vote should be given to a candidate who has the required qualifications and ability, his party manifesto must also be correct and about whom there's satisfaction that he can take better steps for the people of their constituency, religiously and secularly. And because the non-Muslim candidate does not live up to these standards; it is better to vote for a Muslim candidate."

Commenting on the matter, Chaman Lal was quoted as saying by The News International: "When the constitution has given equal rights then those people who have worked for the betterment of their area and are willing to work more for the people of Pakistan, then why shouldn't people cast their votes in favour of them even if they belong to minorities?"

"The world is running after technology while Pakistan is still stuck in religious issues  which is no doubt important but it is a personal matter. When it comes to the state then good candidates should come forward even if they belong to a minority community," he added.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ends his presidential campaign. Photo Courtesy: Ron DeSantis X page video grab

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his presidential campaign and endorsed Donald Trump on Sunday (January 21, 2024), leaving former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley as the only major contender of the former US President for the Republican nomination.

DeSantis made the announcement just days before the crucial New Hampshire Republican Presidential primary.

He suffered a major loss in the Iowa phase of the primary which was clinched by Trump.

DeSantis, who was observed by many as a potential alternative to Trump for the presidential poll later this year, said in a video post on X: "Today I am suspending my campaign."

"Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," he said.

He said: "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."

Nikki Haley factor

Nikki Haley currently stands as the only challenge for Trump to secure a Republican nomination and fight for the presidential seat.

Reacting to the development following Ron DeSantis withdrawal from the race, Haley told CNN: "Theres two people in this race. Thats what we wanted all along. We are going to keep on going."

According to CNN poll, Trump is leading Haley in New Hampshire by 11 points.
The makers of The Tinder Swindler have released another spine-chilling documentary on Netflix, American Nightmare, which examines the tragic case of Denise Huskins, who was kidnapped, drugged, raped and held hostage by a violent home intruder in 2015. At first, her husband Aaron Quinn was considered the prime suspect, but when she returned unscathed, the Police had many reasons to believe she faked her own kidnapping. She was labelled as real-life Gone Girl by the media.

However, this narrative was far from the truth. After another similar invasion happened where the kidnapper mistakenly left his phone, the Police tracked Matthew Muller's home in Dublin, which gave them more evidence of many of his crimes including Denise Huskins' kidnapping.

Where is Matthew Muller now?

Twitter

Muller pleaded guilty to Huskins kidnapping in September 2015. Two years later in 2017, he was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

A former Marine, Muller reportedly suffered from bipolar disorder. He was described as a Harvard-educated lawyer who was later disbarred. According to The Associated Press, "Muller calmly told U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley that he was taking antidepressant, mood-stabilizing and anti-psychotic drugs. His attorney, Thomas Johnson, later said Muller has been diagnosed as manic and depressive."

In 2018, Matthew Muller said he was non-guilty

Twitter

"It's pretty simple. Im not guilty... I dont think theres any excuse for the way the Vallejo Police Department handled it. That's why I thought it was worth it to take a dive and made sure they achieved justice for that wrongful accusation," he said. Additionally, he said that he fell into "severe depression" in Sacramento jail. "I didnt care what happened to me," he said.



During the hearing, US District Judge Troy L Nunley said, "The sentence imposed today reflects the egregiousness of Mullers conduct in this case. Muller had advantages in life that most people only dream of, yet he used his considerable intelligence to plan and execute the physical assault and psychological torture of two innocent strangers. It is difficult to imagine the level of suffering that Muller inflicted on his victims. The sentence handed down today takes into account that suffering and strives to ensure that Muller will never again commit such crimes."



Twitter

Muller's defense attorney argued for a 30 year sentence as he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Following this, Muller was sentenced to 31 years in prison after he pleaded no contest to two counts of forcible rape and guilty to three other charges in 2022.

Where is Matthew Muller Now? He is in prison at Federal Correctional Institution in Tucson, Arizona. He will be released on July 8, 2049.

In 2018, he gave an interview to NBC Bay Area in which he said he was non-guilty. He said he accepted the crime as he felt bad for the couple.

American Nightmare is streaming on Netflix.



For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


Devotees are making their way to Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir consecration event on January 22, not just from India but from across the world.

The impact of the Ram Mandir inauguration event in Ayodhya shows that it has evolved into a worldwide occasion, fostering cross-cultural harmony and making a significant impression in foreign territories.

Devotees from New York, Germany, London - all land in Ayodhya

A group of young women have reached Ayodhya all the way from London, donning a complete saffron attire - wearing saffron robes.

One among them is Dr Sadhvi Avakshi Bharti who is a double Ph.D. She was working as a psychologist in the UK before giving up everything to become a monk, News18 reports.

Another is Saint Gabrielle who had earlier worked as a biologist with the UK government but took sanyaas as well, at a young age.

News18

Making the journey to Ayodhya with four other women, Sadhvi told News18, "We all are Sadhvis and Guru sisters. We are followers of Her holiness Maa Ashutoshamvari ji."



She added, "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."

Yet another devotee, named Sri Krishna Chaitanya Swami, has come from New York to Ayodhya to welcome Ram Lalla and witness the newly constructed temple.

He quipped, "Jai Shri Ram!", while participating in the Shobha Yatra organised by ISKCON temple.

Videograb/ ANI

Devotees from Germany too are present at Ayodhya for the event. ISKCON National Campaigner, Yudishthir Govind Das says "This is a historic moment. Hindu devotees across the world have been waiting for this since over 500 years...Ayodhya has been reconstructed completely."



How other countries are marking the Ram Mandir inauguration

On January 22, prayers and celebrations were organised at the Brahmrishi Mission Ashram in London, United Kingdom.

"Not just India, but the whole world has got 'Rammay'. Lord Ram belongs to the whole world. Celebrations for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony have been planned at 250 places and the Indian diaspora is celebrating the occasion with high fanfare and enthusiasm. Here at Brahmrishi Ashram, people from all parts of India have come to celebrate," said Satyam Surana, an Indian student studying at LSE.

The Indian diaspora illuminated Times Square, New York to celebrate the Pran Prathistha ceremony.



Indian diaspora illuminated Times Square, New York to celebrate the Pran Prathistha ceremony at Ram Mandir, Ayodhya.



(Pics: Consulate General of India, New York's 'X' account) pic.twitter.com/Y4Vq3TmAri  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Vishwa Hindu Parishad in the US organised a car rally at Golden Gate Bridge.



ANI

A grand procession of Lord Ram was taken out in Phoenix, Arizona.



The Indian community in Paris is eagerly engaging in the elaborate festivities surrounding the Ram Rath Yatra near the Eiffel Tower, with a Ram rath yatra planned.



Media reports indicated that the consecration ceremony will be livestreamed in over 50 countries.

Ram Mandir consecration: When and Where to watch

The Ram Mandir consecration time at Ayodhya is 11 am.

The ceremony will be telecasted live from the Ram temple in Ayodhya between 11 am and 1 pm.

Viewers can watch the live telecast on the IndiaTimes channel below:

For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep emotions and a sense of great privilege while participating in the consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya.

PM Modi's speech

Addressing the large gathering after the 'pran pratistha' rituals at the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said, "Our Ram has finally arrived."

"I have come before you are witnessing the divine consciousness in the temple's sanctum sanctorum. There's so much to say but, but there's a lump in my throat. After unprecedented patience, innumerable sacrifices and penance, our Lord Ram has arrived. I congratulate the country on this occasion," the Prime Minister said.

He made these remarks during the elaborate 'pran pratishtha' rituals in the presence of dignitaries, including Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.

#WATCH | Ayodhya: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "There was also a time when some people used to say 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi'...Such people could not understand the purity of India's social spirit. The construction of this temple of Ram Lalla is also a symbol of pic.twitter.com/NgtASg6kbp  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

The consecration ceremony was held after the first phase of the temples construction, made possible by a 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.



Highlights of Ayodhya Ram Mandir event

PM Modi showers flower petals on workers who were involved in the construction of Ram temple in Ayodhya.

VIDEO | PM Modi showers petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who were involved in the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.#RamMandirPranPratishtha pic.twitter.com/jsgSWOqJES  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 22, 2024

IAF choppers shower flower petals over Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple premises.

#WATCH | Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers shower flower petals over Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla is unveiled in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.



The air in the premises is filled with chants of 'Jai Sri Ram' by invitees who pic.twitter.com/UsuBdQRCRz  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024





PM Narendra Modi performs the 'aarti' of Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya.

#WATCH | PM Narendra Modi performs the 'aarti' of Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya #RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/7dUwTzsR65  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

First visuals of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya.

#WATCH | First visuals of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya pic.twitter.com/E0VIhkWu4g  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya.

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya #RamMandirPranPrathistha pic.twitter.com/NfhcZLz2Kw  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Celebrations galore

The streets and roads of Delhi are adorned with vibrant decorations, featuring orange-colored balloons, flags, and flowers, creating a festive atmosphere. Devotees have flocked to temples, offering early morning prayers to mark the historic occasion.





In Surat, a viral video captures a massive procession where people joyfully wave flags and play devotional songs on speakers. The enthusiasm and participation of the community reflect the widespread celebration of the Ram Mandir ceremony.

Ahmedabad witnessed a unique celebration as a society set up a small tent in the colony, arranging for a communal viewing of the Ram Mandir ceremony on an outdoor TV. Rangolis depicting Lord Ram added a touch of artistry to the celebrations.

Devotees in Varanasi, during the early hours of January 22, visited the Ganga river to take a dip, symbolizing a sacred ritual. A poignant image shared by ANI captures devotees standing on a ghat, immersed in the spiritual significance of the day.

At VIT Chennai, students joined together in hostel corridors, chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' and expressing their excitement for the ceremony. The energetic participation of the students adds a youthful and dynamic element to the nationwide celebrations.

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Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi faced restrictions while attempting to visit Assam's Batadrava Than, the birthplace of saint Srimanta Sankardeva. The incident occurred after Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma suggested that Gandhi visit the place post the Ram Temple consecration ceremony to avoid "unnecessary competition."

PTI

Gandhi is on his Assam leg of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra

Gandhi, currently on the Assam leg of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, expressed disappointment, stating authorities provided no reasons for the restriction despite an invitation. In a video, Gandhi questioned the imposed restrictions, emphasizing the peaceful intent of the visit.

"We are trying to go to the temple. We were invited and now they are telling us that we can't visit. We are not going to do anything forcibly. We have to do our yatra, we are asking them what is the reason? We are not going to disturb anybody. We have been invited there," he said.

Gandhi reiterated their desire to visit the temple and questioned the imposed restrictions, asking, "What crime have I committed that I cannot visit the temple?" He emphasised the intent to pray peacefully and criticized the authorities for hindering the visit.



Gandhi further stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide who could visit the temple, emphasizing the need for transparency in access. "Only one person can enter the temple," he said.

Reuters

After being denied entry, Rahul Gandhi began a sit-in protest

In response to the incident, Congress leaders and Gandhi initiated a sit-in protest in Nagaon, underscoring their disagreement with the imposed restrictions.

Chief Minister Sarma had earlier stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary competition between the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple and the visit to the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava. Sarma urged Gandhi to reconsider plans, expressing concerns that conflicting events could negatively impact Assam's image.

"I urge Rahul Gandhi to not create a notion that there is a competition between Ram Temple and Batadrava Satra because the TV channels will be flashing Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony on one side and him visiting Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva's birthplace on the other side. This won't be good for Assam," stated Chief Minister Sarma.

The situation highlights the intersection of political, religious, and cultural events, with Gandhi's visit becoming entangled with the Ram Temple consecration ceremony.

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In honour of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, devotees in Madhya Pradesh illuminated the Ram Raja Mandir with 5,100 earthen lamps.

This enchanting event showcased a profound devotion, where each flickering flame became a poignant symbol of the collective connection to the divine.

The radiant spectacle unfolded as individuals, driven by spiritual fervour, came together to partake in this luminous celebration, transforming the temple into a beacon of light and unwavering dedication.

What Exactly Happened At MPs Ram Raja Mandir?



5100 earthen lamps are lit at MP's Ram Raja Mandir in Pran Pratishtha | Image: X

The extensive consecration ceremony in Ayodhya commenced at approximately 12:00 p.m.

Leading up to the significant event, the residents of Orchha town in Madhya Pradesh adorned the Shri Ram Raja Mandir with 5,100 earthen lamps, contributing to the vibrant festivities.

Ayodhya is bedecked for the commemoration of this historic day, hosting a myriad of events throughout the sacred city to mark this special occasion.

5100 earthen lamps are lit at MP's Ram Raja Mandir in Pran Pratishtha | Image: X

Significantly, the Pran Pratishtha ceremonies commenced on January 16, starting with 'Prayaschit' and Karmakuti puja on that day. On January 17, the idol of Lord Ram was introduced to the premises.

The subsequent events unfolded with the installation of the idol in the sanctum spectrum of the Ram Temple on January 18.

5100 earthen lamps are lit at MP's Ram Raja Mandir in Pran Pratishtha | Image: X

Aushadhivas, Kesaradhivas, and Ghritadhivas followed on the next day, with Sugardhivas, Fruitdhivas, and Pushpadhivas taking place on January 20.

The culmination continued with the Madhyadhivas and Shayadhivas on January 21.

Where To Watch MP's Ram Raja Mandir's Video?

The trending video can be viewed on X, as shared by ANI.

What do you think about it? Do let us know in the comments.

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The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has received over 20,000 packets of 'mahaprasad' for Lord Ram Lalla's pran-pratishtha (consecration ceremony) at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya today, which will be presented to VVIPs and dignitaries at the ceremony.

What is Mahaprasad made up of?

The 'mahaprasad' is made with pure ghee and five types of dry fruits | Image: ANI

The 'mahaprasad', made with pure ghee, five types of dry fruits, sugar, and gram flour (besan), includes two small bottles of water from the sacred Saryu river, kalwa (a sacred cotton red thread roll tied around the hands of the participants), supari (betel nuts), and akshat (unbroken rice), according to news agency PTI.



The images of the 'prasad', which would be delivered to the VVIPs and dignitaries at the ceremony, have leaked online. According to the images released by news agency ANI, the prasad box comprises 'Ram Kand Mool', 'Sarju Neer', 'Kumkum', and 'Rudraksha'.

Who has made the Mahaprasad?

The 'mahaprasad' is being made by Gujarat's Bhagwa Sena Bharti Garvi and Sant Seva Sansthan | Image: ANI

The 'mahaprasad' is being made by Gujarat's Bhagwa Sena Bharti Garvi and Sant Seva Sansthan, with direction from the Ayodhya Temple Trust. It was made with nearly 5,000 kilograms of ingredients by a team of over 200 workers. "



Kamal Bhai Rawal, the organisation's national president, told PTI, "We have been entrusted with the responsibility of preparing 'mahaprasad' along with making arrangements for the stay and food of the saints."



How will the food be served to saints?

Every day, the trust provides food to approximately 5,000 saints who stay at Udaasin Ashram Ranopali, as well as a kit containing a blanket, pillow, and bedsheet.

Guests attending the pran-pratishtha ceremony will be served pure vegetarian meals, as well as legume, 'thepla', almond barfi,'matar kachori', and millet-based delicacies cooked by Varanasi and Delhi chefs.

Check the video here.

#WATCH | Visuals of the 'Prasad' that will be distributed among VVIPs, sadhus at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple on 22nd January in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh pic.twitter.com/586tzhLx83  ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2024

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Sixteen people have reportedly died in a fatal car accident involving a passenger bus along Kano- Zaria expressway.

The accident which occurred on Sunday at about 11:30 am left four others seriously injured

The bus took off from Kano and was heading to Markudi, Benue State, when it crashed at Taban Sani Junction along the Zaria-Kano expressway.

Kabir Nadabo, sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC) in Kaduna, confirmed in statement that the driver of the vehicle was over-speeding.

According to him, the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a ditch.

Nadabo said the corpses of the deceased were deposited at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Shika -Zaria.

He added that the injured were conveyed to the General Hospital in Makarfi, Kaduna state.

READ ALSO: NAF Kills Kaduna Notorious Kidnap Kingpin, Others In Kaduna Community

There was a tragic Road Traffic crash involving a Toyota Bus with registration number TRB 674ZG 35XB traveling from Kano State to Makurdi which occurred at Taban Sani Junction, Tashar Yari along Zaria-Kano expressway, on 21st January 2024 at 11:20 hrs.

The accident was a lone one caused by overspeeding where the driver lost control of the vehicle and rammed into a ditch.

An initial investigation of the crash revealed that 20 people were involved, four were injured. Sadly, 16 people lost their lives.

The injured were conveyed to Makarfi General Hospital for immediate treatment while the deceased were deposited at ABU Teaching Hospital, Shika in Zaria along with the passenger manifest to help in identifying the lost ones as well as reaching out to their families respectively, the statement read.

Nadabo said as the lead agency in transport management and road safety, the FRSC is saddened by the incident.

He said the FRSC in Kaduna state will continue to perform its statutory duty of saving lives and property and creating awareness about the dangers unethical road culture.
Operatives of Ogun State Police Command, on Monday, disclosed that its officers, on Sunday, arrested 30-year-old woman, identified as Olubunmi Ajayi for attempting to drown her five-month-old baby, Imole Anifowose, in RSS River, Sagamu.

In a statement made available to the newsmen, by the spokesperson for the state police command, SP Omolola Odutola, stated that, one Olusola Sonaya, who was around the river on Sunday, assisted in rescuing the baby from drowning after her mother threw her into the water.

The baby was said to have been rushed to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, for medical attention and is currently in stable condition at the time of filing this report.

The statement partly reads: A five months old baby, one Imole Anifowose, is now in stable condition after one Olusola Sonaya m of RSS River Sagamu, averted a premeditated drowning by the mother.

READ MORE: Man Stabs Co-tenant To Death In Ogun Over Alleged Wifes Infidelity

Following an attempted murder case which occured on the 21st of January 2024 at about 1730hrs that one Oluwabunmi Ajayi f aged 30 years was sighted by a humanitarian who saw the suspect dropping her little child into the river.

The person who saw her dropping the child into the river raced to the river and rescued the baby from drowning.

The baby was rushed to OOUTH for immediate medical attention, and examination, and was reported to have survived the trauma.
The Edo State Police Command has apprehended three suspects for allegedly stealing two vehicles during a church crusade.

The suspects include Augustine Ikponmwoba (62), Roland Ibizugbe (63), and Blessing Joseph (36).

The victims, Joy Mordi and Peter Abiwo, reported the theft of their Toyota Camry cars, valued at N3.5 million each, from Garrick Memorial Ground after attending the crusade.

Funsho Adeboye, the State Commissioner of Police, revealed that during the investigation, a female suspect, Joseph who was in possession of one of the phones from Mordis vehicle, was arrested.

READ ALSO: Police Nab 32-yrs Old Man Over Colleagues Death In Kano

Joseph, found with one of the stolen phones, implicated Ikponmwoba, leading to his arrest.

Ikponmwobas arrest led the police to Ibizugbe. The suspects have confessed to the crime and will be charged to court as soon as the investigation is concluded, he said.

Recently, 20-year-old Chidera Ozemina and 32-year-old Micheal Chukwu were arrested by the operatives of the Lagos State Police Command for allegedly stealing a Range Rover SUV in United Estate Shangotedo, Ajah, in Lagos State.

The owner of the car, claimed that he discovered the car had vanished from the premises when he returned from the market.
Human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, has called for an end to jumbo pensions recieved by some former Governors in Nigeria.

According to him, while some State Governors voted themselves large pension payments and allowances, they failed to pay their former workers pensions and gratuities during their time in office.

The Chairman, Alliance on Surviving Covid-19 and Beyond, in a statement, however noted that Nigeria can no longer afford to pay scandalous pensions to ex-Governors while workers are owed arrears of meagre pensions.

READ ALSO: Emulate Gbenga Daniel And Dankwambo, Reject Double Pension  Falana To Akpabio, Ex-Governors In National Assembly

The statement titled, End Scandalous Pension for Ex-Governor Now, partly read: Many state governors voted themselves humongous pension payments and allowances.

Many of the same governors chose not to pay the pensions and gratuities for their former workers whilst they were in office. Not less than 20 of them are in the Senate where they also receive jumbo salaries and allowances.

Lagos was the first state to implement a pension law for its former governors. The Lagos State Pension for Ex-Governors was enacted in 2007.

Since then, the majority of states adopted the Lagos model. But the pension laws for Lagos, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers states are the most scandalous.
The Ogun State Police Command says it has launched an investigation to unravel the mystery behind the death of an unidentified National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), member in the State.

The body of the deceased NYSC member was discovered in the Kadesh area of Ogijo, on Sunday after residents reported the case at Ogijo Division of the Command.

In a statement released by its spokesperson, Omotola Odutola, the Command said it is yet to ascertain the cause of the NYSC members death.

The eyewitnesses that raised a loud shout became curious to find a keke plying a route not meant for tricycles. Before the eyewitnesses could properly investigate their suspicion, a lifeless body was discovered.

The culprits defeating the villagers, were a step ahead and disappeared without trace despite the efforts of the concerned citizens to catch up with the culprits, Odutola said in the statement.

READ ALSO: NAF Kills Kaduna Notorious Kidnap Kingpin, Others In Kaduna Community

Odutola explained that detectives from the Ogijo Division were dispatched to the scene, where they discovered the body of the young male adult, estimated to be around 24 years old.

According to the police spokesperson, the corpse was found in an isolated bush, and the area was immediately cordoned off.

The body has been deposited at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital Mortuary in Sagamu.

No one has reported a missing person fitting the description, and no family member has come forward to file a complaint of a missing person.

In the meantime, the police have launched an active investigation to identify the culprits behind this heinous act, the statement added.
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has nullified and set aside the presentation and passage of the N800 billion 2024 budget by a group of four-member legislators in the state, led by Edison Ehie.

In a judgment delivered by Justice James Omotosho, the court nullified the signing of the budget into law by the Governor.

Justice Omotosho, ordered Fubara to re-present the budget to the legally constituted House of Assembly under the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule.

The judge also quashed the withholding of the House of Assembly fund on the ground, declaring that he had no constitutional power to do so.

READ MORE: Rivers Crisis: I Dont Want To Be Remembered For Negative Things  Fubara

The presiding judge also restrained the states Governor from frustrating the House of Assembly under Amaewhule from sitting or interfering in the affairs of the House.

Justice Omotosho also voided the Governors redeployment of the Clerk and the Deputy Clerk and ordered both officials to resume office immediately and unhindered.

He also directed the Inspector General of Police to immediately give adequate security to the Speaker and legislators loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike.

The judge also barred the National Assembly from taking over the Rivers State House of Assembly or accepting or treating any request from Governor Fubara.

Justice Omotosho also ordered Governor Fubara to release all monies standing in the credit of the House of Assembly to Martin Amaewhule.
Operatives of the So-Safe Corps in Ogun State have arrested a man, allegedly terrorising the peace of Ala community in the Odogbolu Local Government Area of the state with a fake pistol.

The Director of Information and Public Relations of the Corps, Moruf Yusuf, confirmed the this in a statement released on Monday morning, stating that the suspect, identified as Daniel Iwalokun, was apprehended with a toy gun.

Iwalokun, an indigene of Ilaje in Ondo State, is said to have been disturbing residents of Ala, using a fake firearm.

READ MORE: Investigation Begins As NYSC Members Corpse Is Discovered In Ogun

Moruf said: The suspect, identified as Daniel Iwalokun, a native of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, was apprehended by the Ijebu Zonal Operation team of the Corps.

The suspect had been instilling fear in the people, causing unrest in the said Ala community and using the fake pistol to achieve his criminal aims
Following the worsening security situation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the Senate has revealed plans to summon the nations capital Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Ireti Kingibe, Senator representing the FCT, made this known while speaking on Channels Televisions Sunday Politics on Sunday.

According to her, when the Senate resumes plenary, the Minister would be summoned to explain his plan to tackle the security crisis.

Senator Kingibe, elected under the Labour Party, further lamented the recent surge in kidnapping, killings and other activities by the dreaded bandits in the nations capital.

READ ALSO: Our Security Agents Have Gone To Sleep  FCT Senator Kingibe On Rising Insecurity

It is not that I am hoping. I know he will be summoned. But whether he responds or not is a different matter entirely. But as the chief security officer of the FCT, he should have a plan.

He should be able to tell us, the committee, and specifically me, that this is the plan for protecting the people of the FCT. Between him, the police commissioner, and the head of the DSS, they must have a plan, the Senator said.

The lawmaker further disclosed that there is a disconnect between her and the FCT Minister, accusing the latter of ignoring her messages and letters in the wake of insecurity in the area.
The rear of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia in 2021. Read more

A fresh pair of acquisitions, a newly endowed position, and a recently appointed chief are boosting the Philadelphia Museum of Arts focus on modern and contemporary art.

Eleanor Nairne, formerly senior curator at the Barbican Art Gallery in London, has been named curator and head of the Art Museums newly reconfigured department of modern and contemporary art. The London-born curator, the daughter of two art historians, hopes to take up her Philadelphia post sometime in February.

Nairne, 36, said she was attracted by the city and what she called a pivotal moment for the museum  having Sasha [Suda] as a new director and a new curatorial structure in place.

I also wanted to be in a place where change is welcome, and it feels like there is a real mandate for change.

Separately, the museum announced that PMA trustees Lisa S. Roberts and David W. Seltzer have endowed a new position within the department: a full-time curator of modern and contemporary design. The spot is expected to be filled after Nairnes arrival.

Additionally, the Art Museum recently acquired two new works, both by Philadelphia artists: Tiona Nekkia McCloddens Be Alarmed: The Black Americana Epic, Movement I - The Visions, a 2014 installation of photographs, videos, and objects; and Alex Da Cortes ROY G BIV, a video work projected onto a large cube.

Neither work is currently on display.

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The museums search for a new head of modern and contemporary art aimed to find a leader that will be inspiring, and truly, I think shes that person, said Carlos Basualdo, the museums deputy director and chief curator, who called Nairne adventurous but thoughtful, very precise, very respected in the field.

At the Barbican, the institution had certain limitations, and she was able to work with those and push them through and did remarkable work there, Basualdo said.

Nairne curated several shows at the Barbican: Alice Neel: Hot Off The Griddle (2023), Soheila Sokhanvari: Rebel Rebel (2022), Lee Krasner: Living Colour (2019); and Basquiat: Boom for Real (2017). She was previously curator of the Artangel Collection at Tate, for which she organized more than 30 exhibitions and installations across the U.K., and comes from a family of art professionals that includes her mother, art historian Lisa Tickner, and her father, one-time National Portrait Gallery director Sandy Nairne.

Eleanor Nairne arrives in Philadelphia amid a newly reconfigured curatorial structure established in September.

Departments were not really talking to each other sufficiently, said Basualdo. And when Sasha asked me to become the chief curator, it was even more evident that although there were conversations and some very good conversations, they were mostly [a result of] personal affinity. But there wasnt a structure, a channel by which those conversations could be articulated.

Now, the South Asian and East Asia art departments have become Asian Art; the European painting and sculpture and European decorative art departments became European Art; and the modern specialists in American and European decorative arts and European painting are now part of the modern and contemporary art department.

In all, eight departments became six, and no jobs were eliminated in the reorganization, a museum spokesperson said.

At the center of all this is trying to develop a more collaborative approach among curators, says Basualdo, but also between curators and other people in the museum  conservators, marketing  basically trying to create a different culture in terms of collaboration.

Nairne is interested in extending those conversations beyond the Art Museums walls. The job brings the potential to be collaborating with the Institute of Contemporary Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, of course, the Barnes down the road, the Calder when it opens, not to mention the universities, which are an important part of the ecosystem.

Even before her new post arose as a possibility, she says she felt very excited about the city at this time in its history and also its richness of culture.

In considering the evolution of the Art Museums work, for me, the place it always needs to begin with is Philadelphia because it has such a rich and particular history. For example, my personal interest is in post-war art, but perhaps that means thinking about the place of textiles in Philadelphia because of the citys manufacturing past.

The job, Nairne says, is thinking about the stories you want to tell.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Admission is $14-$30, free for visitors age 18 and under. philamuseum.org
Workers attended "Philly Workers Fight Back" in November 2023 to share stories of retaliation by their employers, a major reason workers don't report labor law violations to the government. The event was hosted by the PA Domestic Workers Alliance and other Office of Worker Protections community partners. Read more

Philadelphias Office of Worker Protections  which enforces labor laws such as wage theft and paid sick leave  had its best year yet for getting workers money they were owed.

The $328,000 recovered for workers was nearly double the amount from the year before, according to a new report, and more than 15 times more than in 2018.

The difference is due to the Fair Workweek law and paid sick leave violations at large employers that affected many workers, said Candace Chewning, director of the Office of Worker Protections within the city Department of Labor. The Fair Workweek law, which went into effect in 2020, mandates consistent scheduling for retail, fast food, and hospitality workers at chain employers.

Chewnings office saw more class-action complaints, meaning several workers at a single employer filed complaints.

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Although wage theft complaints were the most commonly filed, representing more than half of the total 282 complaints, it was restitution due for Fair Workweek and paid sick leave violations that form the majority of the more than $300,000 recovered, according to the report, which was compiled by the city office.

The office often conducted full-scale investigations at larger employers with complaints of Fair Workweek and paid sick leave violations, rather than one-off investigations looking into a single workers case. The citys paid sick leave requires employers to provide up to 40 hours of paid sick leave to employees each year.

 READ MORE: Domestic workers to rally in Rittenhouse Square, highlighting continued rights violations, retaliation by employers

The offices report also featured two new bad actor employers  a tool the office uses to shame employers into compliance. One was a homecare agency for seniors called Angel Companions of Philadelphia, which the city said violated the paid sick leave law. Another was cleaning company Making Life Easier, which the city said committed wage theft. Wage theft is when an employer does not pay a worker what it had agreed to.

BrightSpring Health Services, which runs some Angel Companions locations, said the Philadelphia location was a franchise owned by Mark Lamar.

Lamar did not respond to a request for comment.

A woman who identified herself as the owner of Making Life Easier, but who would not give her name, said that the allegations of wage theft were totally false. She said two workers filed the complaints out of spite and jealousy and called the citys investigative process biased toward the workers.

This is very frustrating because weve been in business for 17 years and we have never had a situation like this, she said. We dont believe in taking peoples money.

 READ MORE: These Philly community orgs are working with the city to educate workers on their rights, regardless of whether theyre unionized

The offices report tracks a drastic overhaul in its operations. In five years, the Office of Worker Protections has gone from an overlooked backwater in the Mayors Office to a permanent department with a major charge: protecting low-wage workers rights in the city.

In 2019, it enforced three laws, employed three staffers, and recovered $21,000 for workers. Its budget was under $1 million.

In 2023, it enforced six laws and had tripled its staff, most of whom are investigators. The budget of the Department of Labor, where the office is housed, is nearly $5 million and the office is hiring six more staffers.

The change represents a growing interest in workers rights beyond unions  which represent only 6% of private-sector workers and do not include the most precarious, low-wage workers  and a greater reliance on city laws rather than state or federal. The changes are also a result of worker organizing, as workers have pushed for new labor laws and greater enforcement over the past few years.

Still, in Philadelphia the poorest big city in the country  most of the labor violations go unchecked. For example, the office received 164 wage theft complaints last year, though Temple Law researchers estimate tens of thousands of workers experience wage theft every week in the city.
Mark Young has been serving a life sentence for what prosecutors say was his role as a coconspirator in a 1974 bar robbery that ended in the shooting death of patron Walter Wally Palmero.

The 67-year-old Young, who maintained his innocence for almost 50 years, is now slated to be released from prison after a negotiated guilty plea.

Judge Shanese I. Johnson on Monday vacated Youngs previous conviction and sentence. Young then entered a negotiated guilty plea to third-degree murder, first-degree robbery, and conspiracy, which counted his time served, avoided a possible third trial  and will now lead to a release from prison this week.

Were thankful the district attorney recognized the inequities in Mr. Youngs case and thankful for the compassion and justice they decided was appropriate, Michael Diamondstein, Youngs attorney, said after the hearing.

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According to prosecutors, two armed men entered Place Bar, which news reports described as being in West Oak Lane, on Sept. 7, 1974. They shot Palmero and stole $185 and a bottle of liquor. Authorities contended Young was present, but that he didnt shoot Palmero.

Youngs case was fraught from the start. The jury in his first trial failed to reach a verdict. In his second trial in 1975, Young was convicted of second-degree murder, robbery, and criminal conspiracy.

But in recent years, Diamondstein has pushed back in filings for post-conviction relief on two key pieces of evidence used for that trial.

The first was a hair-testing method once considered the gold standard in forensics. In 2015, the FBI cast doubt on decades of microscopic hair testing performed by comparing hair samples visually. Instead, the FBI said, newer, more accurate DNA testing was preferred.

DNA testing, however, wasnt available in the 1970s. Had it been, according to Diamondstein, evidence would show that his client wasnt present at the Place Bar that evening.

The conviction was also aided by a witness who identified Young, but Diamondstein alleges that process was skewed in favor of the prosecution; when a bar employee was shown six images of potential suspects, Diamondstein said, four of them were photos of Young.

By disproving the results of the microscopic hair evidence, the only evidence the prosecution would have placing him at the scene of the crime is one eyewitness who was shown a skewed photo lineup, Diamondstein wrote in a court filing.

Diamondstein also argued police used aggressive tactics to force a confession from his client, who was participating in U.S. Army basic training at the time of the robbery.

Young learned in 2018 that the hair-testing method used to convict him could support his quest for exoneration. With the help of Diamondstein, Young filed for a post-conviction relief hearing with the Philadelphia District Attorneys office in 2021.

Based on Youngs case file, it doesnt appear that the hair was a material part of the first two trials, and theres no material to be tested for DNA in the case, a spokesperson for the district attorneys office said.

Speaking from SCI Huntingdon to the court, Young said he was deeply affected by the Palmero familys loss, but he also lamented losing 50 years of his life.

Despite having escaped prison and eluding authorities for five years before he was caught, Young has been free of misconduct for decades, Diamondstein noted. He said his client took college classes while incarcerated, and is one credit short of earning his associates degree.

Palermos niece, Elizabeth, sat in the courtroom Monday, while his other relatives were patched in by phone or had statements read on their behalf. In a statement, Palermos brother Mark wrote that he believed Young should remain in prison for the rest of his life.

Others said the family was never the same. Palermos death became how the family marked time, according to relatives.

The right people have been prosecuted, wrote Palmeros sister, Denise McNamara. Her daughter read the statement in court amid stifled sobs.

Youngs codefendant was convicted and remains incarcerated, according to the district attorneys office.

Several of Youngs relatives also attended the hearing, letting out a sigh of relief once it ended.

Hes coming home, said a relative to Diamondstein before heading off to prepare for Youngs return.
The West building of Society Hill Towers, in Philadelphia on Monday. Over the weekend there were multiple fatal shootings across Philadelphia, including one at the 24th floor of one of Society Hill Towers. Read more

A resident of Society Hill Towers was in custody Monday in connection with the deadly shooting of a 31-year-old man inside one of the high-rise buildings at the complex on Sunday night.

Around 8:15 p.m., gunshots were reported on the 24th floor of the West Tower of Society Hill Towers, on the 200 block of Locust Street, building management wrote in an email to residents. When Philadelphia police arrived, they found the man shot multiple times in his torso, police said. He was taken to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.

Police recovered a gun and took a man into custody, police said. No charges have been announced.

The shooting stemmed from an altercation between a tower resident and his guest, management said in the email. The resident was the shooter, said Police Deputy Commissioner Frank Vanore.

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When reached at the Society Hill Towers management office, general manager Brett Scioli declined to comment.

The five-acre property where the three-building condominium complex sits was empty and quiet Monday morning, save for the occasional resident leaving to run errands or to smoke a few steps away from their building.

Linda Hirshey, 68, a resident of the complex who lives in a different tower than the one in which the crime took place, said she didnt hear or see anything. Hirshey, who has lived in the building for 15 years, said the shooting came as a shock yet the violence was not altogether surprising.

Anything can happen anywhere, thats the way I feel about it, she said.

The shooting in Society Hill capped a violent weekend that saw at least two other people killed and four people injured in the city.

Earlier Sunday, at 6:44 p.m., police responded to a shooting inside a convenience store on the 7100 block of Elmwood Avenue in the citys Eastwick section, police said.

When officers arrived, they found a 33-year-old man who had been shot in his head and multiple times in his body. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:57 p.m., police said. Another man, also 33, was shot in the leg and the arm and taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he was placed in critical but stable condition.

The two victims were playing on a poker machine inside the convenience store when two people wearing all-black clothing, white sneakers, and face masks came into the store and fired shots, said Vanore. The 33-year-old who was hit in the leg and the arm was able to flee to the back of the store, he said.

Police are reviewing surveillance footage of the incident and do not yet have a motive for the shooting, he said. A firearm was recovered, but no arrests have been made.

Earlier Sunday morning, at 1:22 a.m., police responded to a shooting on the 5500 block of Angora Terrace, in the Angora Section of the city, police said. A 57-year-old man was assaulted and taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 2:21 a.m., police said.

Police made an arrest in the fatal assault and a charge of involuntary manslaughter was expected, said Vanore. Police did not release a motive for the crime or say what kind of weapon, if any, was used.

The neighborhood, nestled between Cobbs Creek and Kingsessing, was once tight-knit, with neighbors looking out for each other, making sure each others cars and homes were locked and secure, said Jamie Pettyjohn, 46. Now, neighbors move in overnight and leave just as quickly, he said.

Pettyjohn grew up visiting his grandparents house on the block and inherited the house from them when they died, he said. The house had been in his family since 1962, but violence and crime seen in recent years has made him grow fearful of staying, he said.

I wanna leave but I feel like Im stuck here, Pettyjohn said Monday. This is why I want to go.
Arthur Steinberg inside his office at the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) headquarters. Steinberg will take over from Jerry Jordan as PFT president on July 1. Read more

On July 1, Arthur Steinberg will become president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, replacing longtime PFT president Jerry Jordan, who announced his retirement Tuesday.

Steinberg must hit the ground running  the PFTs contract, covering 13,000-plus teachers, counselors, nurses, paraprofessionals and other school workers, expires Aug. 31.

Heres what we know about Steinberg:

He has a long PFT history, and family connections.

Steinberg comes from a PFT and district family; his father, Jack Steinberg, was one of the teachers unions founders, and its longtime treasurer.

Arthur Steinberg followed in his fathers footsteps as a district teacher  he taught special education at Edison High from 1979 to 1983  then as a PFT staffer, then, ultimately, as executive board treasurer, a position he still holds.

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Steinberg, like his father before him, is also chief trustee of the PFTs Health and Welfare Fund.

(Altogether, there were five Steinbergs who taught in Philadelphia schools  Jack and Arthur, and Arthurs mother, sister, and wife.)

Since 2019, Arthur Steinberg has been president of the American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania chapter.

PFT president wasnt necessarily a job to which he aspired.

There was no long-held plan for Steinberg to become PFT president, he said in an interview.

It wasnt a goal or an ambition of mine, he said.

When Jordan, who began working for the union four years after Steinberg did, began discussing his retirement with his inner circle, some of the staff thats remaining behind began having conversations with Steinberg about potentially serving as president.

Ive given so much of my life and career to this, Steinberg said. They convinced me that it would be the best way to build a bridge to the future.

Steinberg assumes the mantle of the collective bargaining team, which has long controlled the PFT. He will remain in the statewide AFT job; he says with strong staffs in both organizations, he can do both jobs.

Steinberg will be 70 when he becomes PFT president. How long does he want to serve?

Well see how things progress, he said. Ill make a decision when these four years are up. Im not going to leave in the middle of the term.

The spotlight will take some getting used to, said Steinberg, whos becoming president of one of the citys most powerful unions in a powerful union town.

Hes not sure what kind of PFT leader hell be, Steinberg said, but Ive learned a lot from Jerry all these years working with him, he said. He admires Jordans tranquility and his steady hand, steady path.

He is no stranger to contract negotiations.

Jordan has said he will be actively involved in contract negotiations until his departure, available in whatever way PFT needs him until June 30, and even afterward.

But Steinberg is no stranger to negotiations. He was first at the table in the contentious 2000 contract talks, and has helped hammer out every contract since then.

At the top of the priority list in the 2024 contract, Steinberg said, are, no surprise: salary and benefits.

We really are looking to increase salaries for everybody, said Steinberg.

But also important are general, overall, daily working conditions  that would include attendance, facilities, interactions between principals and staff, paperwork  thats still a big issue, said Steinberg.

PFT staff are now combing through member proposals, discerning the rank-and-file priorities; Steinberg will try to achieve as many as we can, he said.

Safe school conditions are his priority.

Steinberg said safeguarding conditions in Philadelphia schools is paramount.

Our working conditions are kids learning conditions, said Steinberg. We think were the foremost advocates for kids in the School District of Philadelphia.

Even though a Commonwealth Court judge ruled Pennsylvanias state funding system unconstitutional last year and a legislative committee adopted a report calling for an additional $9 billion in spending on Pennsylvanias schools over the next seven years, there are no guarantees, Steinberg said.

The PFT must continue to fight for fair funding, said Steinberg.

Id really like to be able to instigate for those funds to be secured for the district in a much shorter time frame than the seven years, he said. If we can get more money, then we can make schools safe.

His response to criticism around his presidency? Anyone could have run.

No other PFT members declared their candidacy for president; only Steinbergs collective bargaining team filed a nominating petition.

But this is the first time in several years that the collective bargaining team was not challenged by the Caucus of Working Educators, a group within the union whose members have argued that Jordan and his team were too top-down, not responsive enough to members, and too slow to embrace progressive causes.

The Working Educators caucus announced in November it would not run a slate of candidates, but it would continue to work on issues it considered crucial. Because, though, Jordan kept his retirement under wraps until the deadline for candidates to present nominating ballots, that effectively shut out anyone who might see an opening with his departure.

That has rankled some PFT members.

Asked to comment, the Working Educators caucus referred to its November statement, saying its members are not stopping our work and are committed to priorities including altering the districts current system for teachers sick day use, which makes them subject to disciplinary action when they take three nonconsecutive days the contract entitles them to. The caucus also said it wants a transparent negotiating process and strike readiness.

Steinberg said procedures were followed around his election.

Anyone could have run, he said.

Though he has not worked in a school for over 40 years, Steinberg said he would listen closely to members needs and their feedback about the day-to-day realities of working in Philadelphia schools in 2024, both through his own outreach and the work of PFT staff representing all 216 schools.

Ill be engaging with members, he said. Ive always spoken to members when theyve called. Ill be meeting with everyone  staff and members.

His executive team is filled with mostly familiar names.

Steinbergs top team will include Wendy Coleman, who will be general vice president; LeShawna Coleman, treasurer; Cyndi Bolden, secretary; Benjamin Hover, legislative representative; and Trina Dean, associate secretary.
With Valentines Day just around the corner, Philly restaurants are gearing up to host lovebirds with prix fixe menus and roses on tables, as bookings flood reservation apps and restaurant hosts answer calls for tables of two.

Hot spots on Inquirer food critic Craig LaBans list of notable new restaurants, including South Phillys Mawn and Rittenhouse Squares My Loup, are already fully booked. Reservations at Graduate Hospital BYOB Illata and omakase at Fishtowns Hiroki have also been scooped up. And while a few tables remain, prime-time seatings at North Broad Streets Italian restaurant Osteria and Michael Schulsons Harp & Crown in Center City West are reserved too.

Its safe to say you need to get your Valentines Day reservations in right now. To help you score a table for you and your boo, we chatted with hosts and reservationists at some of the citys most romantic restaurants for their tips on getting seated.

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How to snag a table on Valentines Day

The Head House Square Italian restaurant Bistro Romano is halfway booked. While you could call Wednesday through Sunday after 1 p.m., booking on OpenTable offers the convenience of time  the restaurant is closed on Monday and Tuesday. But the team is responsive and will get back to folks voice mails. If you plan to get down on one knee and pop the question, then make sure to note any special requests when booking online or via phone.

 120 Lombard St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147,  215-925-8880, bistroromano.com

While Fitler Squares neighborhood restaurant Sally keeps tables open for walk-ins, reservations can be easily booked by phone, email, or online. General manager Megan Engler advises either booking a month in advance or, if tables are booked, calling the day of to see if there were any cancellations. While reservation apps streamline things, she leans toward calling or emailing  its the best way to book, make changes, and secure all your special requests. And if anything, come to the bar the day of [the holiday], she said. The staff at Sally will get you sorted while you sip on a drink.

2229 Spruce St. Philadelphia, Pa. 19103,  267-773-7178,  sallyphl.com

At River Twice, you can book as early as 30 days in advance for special events, including Valentines Day. The restaurant on East Passyunk Avenue accepts booking requests prior to the special holiday offerings going out to the public. Use Resy to secure your plans  about 90% of the restaurants holiday bookings happen online. It never hurts to call in advance to hear about a restaurants holiday plans. Pro tip: Sign up for an email notification at your favorite restaurant to know when Valentines Day reservations go live on the apps, advises Marissa Chirico, the restaurants front of the house manager and director.

 1601 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19148,  267-457-3698, rivertwicerestaurant.com

Want to surprise your date by having roses or glasses of bubbly on the table when you arrive? Be sure to communicate that over the phone with a reservationist so the staff an easily accommodate. The staff at one hot spot on East Passyunk Avenue, Laurel, will do everything in their power to make the night special for you, said Jane Fryer, general manager. There are only a few seats left for the day of the holiday  Fryer suggests looking for dates surrounding Valentines Day, if seating is booked up.

 1617 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19148,  215-271-8299, restaurantlaurel.com

The Washington Square West BYOB Kiddo is close to being fully booked. According to host Lora Anderson, its too late to snag a table for 7 p.m.. Your best bet is the early or late dinner reservations at 4:30, 9:30, and 9:45 p.m.. But dont fret lovers, there is another option at this restaurant  the bar area will offer an a la carte menu for walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. Book over the phone on any day except for Tuesdays (the restaurant is closed) or bop over to its Resy listing.

 1138 Pine St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19107,  215-398-3377,  kiddorestaurant.com

On South Streets Rex at the Royal, reserving a table at least a week in advance is ideal, said event manager Cecile Perret. Booking by phone is a good way to accommodate your preferred seating times, any changes that may come up, and special requests  youll want to call Wednesdays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., or Sundays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Making a Resy account can help you edit your online bookings in case your date bails last minute and youre looking for a table for one instead of two.

1524 South St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19146,  267-319-1366,  rexphl.com
HUP-Cedar Avenue was cited by state inspectors for an unnecessary delay in emergency care when a patient showed up with a broken wrist in November. Read more

A patient who came to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania-Cedar Avenue unable to move the thumb on their swollen, lacerated hand waited four days for doctors to splint the broken bone.

An X-ray taken shortly after the patient arrived on Nov. 20 confirmed a fractured wrist, but records show it wasnt splinted for days  and only then after the hospitals emergency response team was called to the behavioral health unit to help the patient, inspectors found.

State inspectors cited HUP-Cedar for an unacceptable delay in emergency care, noting it could have led to further injury and increased the patients risk of death in an inspection report released earlier this month.

It was the second time in weeks that hospital inspectors have flagged a serious quality-of-care issue at the West Philadelphia hospital, an outpost of Penns flagship hospital. A patient collapsed on the floor and died in early November at HUP-Cedar, which specializes in treating mental health crises and addiction, because nurses and techs on the behavioral health unit didnt know what to do. The team didnt start CPR for 10 minutes.

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Leaders discussed how the incidents possibly involved diagnostic overshadowing, which happens when doctors and nurses attribute a patients complaints of physical pain to a psychiatric illness. It can result in missed warnings of serious health concerns.

Both times, hospital administrators retrained staff on how to respond to emergencies. Patient safety is Penns top priority, said Regina Cunningham, CEO of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, in a statement to The Inquirer.

We learn from these events and use our findings to benefit care for all patients, she said.

The back-to-back incidents are an uncommon rebuke for Penn, an internationally renowned academic medical center and hospital system.

Penn took over the former Mercy Hospital on the brink of closure in 2021, and last year announced plans to realign all of Penns behavioral health services around a new crisis response center, which opened in September. HUP-Cedar provides emergency mental health services, as well as specialized psychiatric services. Penn has committed to investing $100 million for the buildings lease, facility upgrades, new equipment and reopening the crisis response center.

HUP-Cedars 31 inpatient psychiatric beds and 16 detoxification beds fill a need for more intensive services for mental health patients, with demand for such services on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Penn is telegraphing that they want to be on the cutting edge of this crisis, said Kelsey Leon, a clinical researcher who studies harm reduction at Penn and a member of Philly Coalition for Dignity in Treatment, which advocates for access to health services for people experiencing addiction.

After the state citations, Penn must do more to prepare staff to work with patients who have complex combinations of chronic health conditions, and behavioral or mental health problems, if Penn really plans to make HUP-Cedar a hub for mental health, she said. The Philly Coalition has been meeting with HUP-Cedar executives to talk about how to improve services.

My concern is that there are more instances, and this is just going to continue to exacerbate the medical issues and alienate patients, she said.

Delayed emergency care

HUP-Cedars latest citation found that staff failed to provide timely care to a patient who came through the hospitals emergency department.

The patient arrived around 6:30 a.m. on Nov. 20 with cuts on their right hand and left ear. The report does not include details about the patient, such as gender, age, and why they were admitted to the hospitals behavioral health unit. It also does not say who filed the complaint.

Nurses noted the patient couldnt move their thumb. An X-ray showed a fracture. The results were never given to a doctor, staff told inspectors.

Two days later, nurses observed the patient was experiencing 10 out of 10 pain, swelling and limited mobility, the report says. They contacted a doctor to help manage the pain.

Still, the patients wrist wasnt splinted for another two days. The hospitals rapid response team  which responds to patients during a cardiac crisis  was called to the patients room shortly before 5 p.m. on Nov. 24, according to the inspection report.

A doctor-in-training in orthopedics finally then addressed the fracture by placing a fiberglass splint and ace wrap.

The patient received a follow-up X-ray almost a week later and was discharged on Dec. 1, with a follow-up appointment with an orthopedic surgeon scheduled, the inspection report shows.

HUP-Cedar responds

Staff in the behavioral health unit had not followed the hospitals protocol for requesting a surgical consult, hospital administrators found during their incident review.

Staff were retrained on what to do when an emergency case needs to be escalated to more advanced care and how to seek a specialist consultation quickly. The training also included a refresher on best practices for keeping each other informed of new developments in patient cases, with an emphasis on hand-offs when patients are sent to a different hospital unit or workers change shifts.

Hospital administrators were already planning a meeting for key hospital workers to discuss diagnostic overshadowing. This was because of the prior incident at HUP-Cedar, in which a patient died on Nov. 4.

In that case, staff didnt know how to respond when a patient slumped over in their walker and fell to the floor, and left the patient alone to seek help. When state inspectors investigated what went wrong, administrators noted that diagnostic overshadowing could have contributed to why nurses and techs did not insist on checking the patients vital signs when they initially refused.

Caring for patients who have both psychiatric conditions and medical issues poses unique challenges, Cunningham, the hospitals CEO, said in an emailed statement.

For instance, it can be difficult to distinguish between psychiatric and medical conditions when mental health-related behaviors mimic complicated medical conditions, she said. In all cases, however, we are committed to ensuring that the unique needs of each of our patients are addressed by our staff.

 READ MORE: Nurses left patient to die at Penn Medicine hospital. State inspectors issued a severe warning.

Hospital administrators said they plan to train nursing staff in the behavioral health unit on diagnostic overshadowing and how completing prompt, thorough physical exams can help determine if a patient is in need of care for a physical ailment.

The hospital expects to complete all training by Feb. 2.
With 9,556 workplace discrimination charges in 2021  73 per 100,000 state residents  Pennsylvania had the fifth-highest rate of discrimination, according to data from the EEOC. States with a higher rate of employment discrimination complaints were Tennessee (79 per 100,000), Arkansas (77), Georgia (76), and Nevada (75). Read more

Among all 50 states, Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of workers filing discrimination complaints with federal authorities, a recent study found.

With 9,556 workplace discrimination charges in 2021  73 per 100,000 state residents  Pennsylvania had the fifth-highest rate of discrimination.

The study was based on the most recent full year of data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. California employment law firm Eldessouky Law recently analyzed the data and ranked states based on charges per state resident.

According to the study, retaliation was the most common type of discrimination claim filed in Pennsylvania, with 2,276 charges. This was also the most common claim across the United States. In these kinds of cases, workers allege that they were disciplined by a manager or company leader after making a formal complaint about discrimination or harassment.

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Disability discrimination was the second most common kind of charge filed in Pennsylvania, and sexual discrimination was the third most common charge.

Pennsylvania was the largest state by population to make the top 10 for employment discrimination claims. It tied with Alabama for fifth place.

States with a higher rate of employment discrimination complaints were Tennessee (79 per 100,000), Arkansas (77), Georgia (76), and Nevada (75).

Workers generally must file a charge of discrimination with the EEOC before they can sue their employer for job discrimination. The EEOC pursues only a fraction of the charges filed, but in other instances, the commission will notify workers of their right to sue the employer themselves.

At the end of its most recent fiscal year, the EEOC said it filed 143 new employment discrimination lawsuits, which was a 50% increase from the year before.
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul. The archdiocese announced the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Chester would be relegated to "profane but not sordid use" on March 1. Read more

Come March 1, Delaware County will be down a Catholic church.

Thats when Chesters Immaculate Heart of Mary will be relegated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Word of the forthcoming closure was shared with parishioners at Mass this weekend, the archdiocese said in a news release Sunday.

The decision followed a request made in August by the pastor of the St. Katharine Drexel parish, which has claimed the 151-year-old church at 1408 W. Second St. since 1993 but used it increasingly sparingly for liturgical services since 2002. Immaculate Heart, for instance, had not been used for a baptism since 2017, and Mass was held there just twice in 2023.

Immaculate Hearts closure has been years in the making, and its story traces the decades-long path of contractions in the Catholic Church.

St. Katharine Drexel Parish was formed from the 1993 merger of six Catholic parishes, all in Chester, into one. (Three Catholic elementary schools also merged.) The move, which coincided with the consolidation and closure of parishes and schools in North Philadelphia, was the first in a series of cost-cutting measures made in the 1990s by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia under Archbishop Anthony Bevilacqua. While the decision was prompted by marked declines in parish and school populations, it was nonetheless met with vocal resistance: More than 300 protesters showed up to the first Mass at St. Katharine Drexel, singing Ave Maria and bearing signs that read Bevilacqua Kills Viable Parishes.

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For the last 30 years, St. Katharine Drexel congregants have primarily worshiped at the former St. Roberts Church on Providence Avenue in Chester. But the new parish retained Immaculate Hearts church and other buildings after the merger, and in 2000 renamed it the St. Katharine Drexel Center for Evangelization. A food pantry the parish operated there moved last fall to a Catholic Social Services site in Chester. The building has been vacant since.

While St. Katharine Drexel Parish, which currently has about 300 active parishioners, endeavored to keep the satellite site in good repair over the years, the historic Immaculate Heart building proved increasingly costly to maintain. Significant roof damage was recently discovered, and mold and water damage in other buildings on the property made the space unfit to rent out for other uses, according to the news release from the archdiocese. On top of that, St. Katharine Drexel is facing a substantial budget deficit.

As a result, Archbishop Nelson Perez issued a decree this month relegating the church to profane but not sordid use, representing the churchs official language for selling the church to someone who will repurpose the property for a secular, but not immoral, use.

This fate has befallen other Catholic churches in the Philadelphia area in the last decade, including Olneys Incarnation of our Lord, Our Mother of Sorrows in Bridgeport, Holy Saviour Church in Linwood, and West Phillys Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament. Another notable former Catholic church, St. Laurentius in Fishtown, was relegated in 2014 and demolished in 2022, making way for an eight-story multifamily residential building.
For the eight years Roderick Arrington fought murder and racketeering charges, a whos who of Buffalos criminal defense lawyers took their turns next to him in the federal courthouse.

One of his first lawyers went on to become a judge. Another served as president of the Bar Association of Erie County. And the New York State Bar Association had already given another of his counsels an award for outstanding work by a criminal defense lawyer.

But Arrington wasnt happy with any of them. He complained of being ignored and lied to by a trial lawyer he paid and also let down by the court-appointed attorneys who refused to make legal motions he wanted because lawyers dont go against other lawyers.

His frustrations grew after his first jury trial in 2017 ended with convictions for murder and racketeering and a lifetime prison sentence.

So after an appellate court vacated his convictions and ordered a new trial, Arrington put his legal defense in the hands of a person he trusted  himself.

It is unusual for someone to represent himself in a criminal case, especially one for murder, and two U.S. district judges urged him not to become a pro se litigant but to let an experienced lawyer handle his case.

But for his second trial, he insisted on plotting strategy, questioning witnesses, addressing jurors and making motions and objections himself.

I represent myself, Arrington told jurors in his closing argument. Im standing in front of you pro se for the first time. God gave me the strength.

What happened next was even more unusual: The jury deadlocked. And the judge declared a mistrial.

He came back from the dead, said Mark Foti, who served as Arringtons standby counsel at the second trial.

Getting an acquittal or even a hung jury is rare, and with a defendant representing himself, it makes this case a total outlier, Foti said.

Arrington had more work ahead after the hung jury. With Fotis help, he negotiated a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorneys Office to avoid a third trial, admitting to a racketeering conspiracy that included trafficking cocaine and marijuana. Arrington agreed to an 18-year prison sentence  essentially 10 years because he will be credited for the eight years he has been locked up since his arrest. In return, the government withdrew its position that he murdered Quincy Balance in 2012. And prosecutors did not seek a sentencing enhancement for possessing a dangerous weapon.

As sentencings go, the one Tuesday for Arrington, 42, had a different feel than those for two dozen other Schuele Boys members who have been convicted over the years. Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth Wolford, impressed by the support for him by a dozen relatives and friends in the gallery, asked him to tell her their names. His supporters clapped, with several calling out I love you, as U.S. marshals escorted him from the courtroom. This time, his sentence didnt lead to life behind bars.

The judge noted how unique his case had become.

Youre a smart guy, Wolford told him. You know that. Nobody could represent themselves as effectively as you did and not be smart.

He shot him

The case against Arrington centered on allegations that, starting in 2010, he joined a criminal street gang selling cocaine and marijuana and served as an enforcer to protect its turf in the Grider neighborhood, south of Erie County Medical Center.

The government referred to him and co-defendants as the Schuele Boys, named after the street where many of them were from. By flooding the streets off Schuele Avenue with cocaine, a prosecutor said, they lined the pockets of the Schuele Boys with cash.

Arringtons codefendants included Aaron Hicks and Marcel Worthy, who are now in prison. Beefs with groups from other neighborhoods led to shootings, Worthy testified.

In August 2012, Walter Matt Davison  Hicks friend  was fatally shot. Prosecutors said the Schuele Boys vowed to kill whoever had killed Davison.

Four days after Davisons death, Arrington carried out that revenge when he shot and killed Balance and also fired at Damon Hunter near the corner of Northland and Stevens avenues, prosecutors said.

Arrington denied killing Balance and firing at Hunter, saying he was at Beaver Island State Park with his family when the crime happened.

Balance and Hunter had been warned that some in the neighborhood believed them responsible for Davisons death. So when the pair spotted Hicks driving on Schuele, they pulled their car next to his and let him know they wanted to talk. They parked a few blocks away, got out of their cars, and Balance told Hicks neither of them killed Davison, according to trial testimony.

Minutes later, Worthy pulled up, and then others also arrived. Then Arrington emerged from the other side of the street, and Balance approached him to explain that he had not killed Davison, according to trial testimony.

Worthy, who became a witness for the government, told jurors that Arrington shot Balance.

He shot him, and he shot him again, and then he started shooting at Dame, Worthy testified.

Hunter, who was from the neighborhood but not part of the gang, recalled Arrington wearing sunglasses.

Arrington took the shades off with his left hand, and he came up with his right hand and he shot Quincy, Hunter testified.

Arrington stood about 5 feet from Balance, Hunter said.

What happened next?

Everybody ran, Hunter said, noting he was 5 feet from Arrington.

Me and Arrington locked eyes, I told him, like, bro, we didnt have nothing to do with that stuff, you know?  Hunter recalled.

He walked up on me, so I just dropped down on the ground and rolled under the truck, Hunter testified. He started shooting. I cant say if he started shooting underneath the truck, but I know that he did start shooting.

I just waited for a little while. My ears was ringing, Hunter continued. I just waited and I just got up and ran toward the field on the other side of the street.

Shots flew past him as he ran, and then he hopped a fence, where he waited until police arrived, he said.

I am innocent

Lawyers familiar with the case cannot point to a single reason why two juries that heard similar testimony reached different outcomes. Each trial had about 40 witnesses, and two dozen of them testified at both trials.

The U.S. Attorneys Office declined to comment.

The main difference in Arringtons second trial was that jurors heard from him directly, as he answered questions on the witness stand from Foti, his standby counsel, and also from the prosecutor during cross-examination. Jurors were also able to size him up as he asked witnesses questions and made objections over 14 days of testimony.

Hearing from him directly, they were connecting with him in a way that jurors a lot of times dont, Foti said. There were certainly some jurors who found that persuasive enough that they werent going to convict.

His objections didnt always follow protocol.

I dont know this man from a can of paint! Arrington exclaimed in one objection.

But Arrington got other Schuele Boys members to acknowledge he didnt sell drugs with them or act as their enforcer.

You wasnt an enforcer for me, Worthy said on the witness stand. We never sold drugs together, never shared profits.

He aggressively questioned others he said were lying in their testimony against him so they could gain lenient punishments for their own crimes.

Prosecutors said that in August 2011, Hicks, Worthy and Arrington, among other Schuele Boys members and associates, created rap music videos that showed them displaying currency and suspected cocaine, paying tribute to deceased associates and celebrating the triumphs of the enterprise and its criminal activities.

At his first trial, Arringtons lawyer explained his presence in the videos by describing him as a parasite, just like ... all the other guys who jumped in on the pay-to-play bandwagon but who were not part of an organized criminal enterprise.

At his second trial, Arrington gave a different spin.

I needed the extra money, Arrington said, adding he knew the rap artist. He told me what he wanted me to wear and I took the job.

Whats interesting is the government wanted to paint a picture that he is certainly a thug, Foti said. He is a tall, potentially imposing figure when he is standing, and he has full tattoos that he didnt try to hide from the jurors, and he is in very good shape. Yet he is standing before them, making his arguments in a way that obviously was persuasive to at least some of the jurors. They didnt feel like he was trying to hide who he was. They found the governments narrative wasnt necessarily supported by evidence.

Arrington invoked family and God in his closing argument.

I never had any position in the so-called enterprise drug conspiracy, he said. My position always was to be a better father, a better husband, a better son to God, a better man, father, a better son to my mommy. A better son to my father. Thats my position: a man of God guiding me through this journey and who gave me the power to stand here in front of you and to prove that I am innocent and that I have been falsely accused for things I never committed or done.
A new indemnity clause has been developed so that, if required by the insurer and agreed by the landholder and proponent, it can be used to ensure ongoing farm public liability coverage in Queensland, said a March 2021 media release from the GasFields Commission of Queensland (GFCQ).
At TAL, we are committed to enhancing the experience of super fund members and helping them understand the value insurance provides at every stage of life, she said. Our focus continues to place members' needs at the centre of our thinking so we can deliver leading products and experiences  from simple and seamless digital end-to-end experiences that make it easier and faster for members to engage with their life insurance or make a claim, to providing comprehensive health, rehabilitation, and wellbeing services.
Beyond impressive achievements, this years awardees provided valuable insights into what insurance carriers can do to grow business with them in the future, such as clear communication, flexibility in underwriting, and responsive customer service.
The Point Insurance Services shares our values of providing exceptional service and tailored insurance solutions to clients, said Chris Walters, CEO of Inszone. This strategic acquisition is in line with our mission to expand our presence and enhance our offerings to the Spanish speaking community in California and beyond.
Bright blue vending machines whose free products can help save lives are popping up around Western New York and the rest of the state.

The machines dispense Narcan, the nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose, and test strips to detect fentanyl and Xylazine, substances being added to drugs with lethal consequences here and across the country.

The so-called no stigma vending machines are the latest tool in an ongoing effort to prevent opioid deaths, which have reached historic levels due to street drugs like heroin being laced with far more dangerous substances to produce bigger and longer-lasting highs.

More than 370 people died from opioid-related overdoses in Erie County last year, about 70 more than the previous year, due to fentanyl being added not just to heroin but also to methamphetamine, pills and even cocaine, which is expensive and therefore affects an older group of users, according to the countys Opioid Task Force.

More recently, Xylazine, a powerful synthetic opioid used by veterinarians to sedate large animals, is being added to heroin already cut with fentanyl to make it last longer, said Shelby Arena, harm reduction manager for Buffalo MATTERS, the opioid treatment network behind the vending machines.

MATTERS, which stands for Medication for Addiction Treatment & Electronic Referrals, was founded by UB emergency medicine Dr. Joshua Lynch in 2015. In 2019 it was adopted statewide and its still expanding.

The program provides treatment medication to opioid use disorder patients at emergency departments and gets them into long-term treatment at a community clinic of their choice within 48 hours. MATTERS also offers telemedicine visits for virtual evaluations, treatment medication prescriptions and referrals.

Since fall 2022, it also distributes free Narcan and test strips to community sites, pharmacies and treatment organizations across the state as well as individuals who can request them via its website.

Arena said MATTERS mailed out 55,000 fentanyl and Xylazine test strips in 2022 and last year it sent out 6.7 million strips, for a grand total of nearly 10 million since the project began, filling orders from more than 1,500 organizations.

The vending machine project began in September and officially kicked off Monday with a public event at the Kenmore Fire Department, which is hosting a machine outside the station thats being maintained by patient support group Save the Michaels. The project and related MATTERS outreach efforts are being supported by $8 million from the state health department and funding from its Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASIS).

MATTERS has installed 13 of the first 15 machines so far  five in Western New York  and hopes to add 15 more in the next year, Arena said.

Since October, the machines have dispensed 3,620 Fentanyl test strips, 2,430 Xylazine test strips and 1,836 doses of Narcan, she said. A locator map of the machines can be found at mattersnetwork.org/harmreduction/vendingmachines/

Lynch, an assistant professor at UBs Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, based MATTERS on methods used by doctors at Yale University, who found that patients in opioid withdrawal who were given the medication buprenorphine in the emergency department and then provided with a clinic appointment were more likely to remain in treatment a month later and to have reduced their opioid use.

MATTERS started in 17 Buffalo emergency departments and now operates as a network whose electronic referral service is used by 105 hospitals across the state  almost half of the hospitals in New York state and New York City, Lynch said. The program treats and refers hundreds of opioid users a year to treatment centers in Buffalo alone.

For users who arent ready for treatment, MATTERS and other organizations are working to at least reduce the potential for deadly harm thats growing with the widespread addition of fentanyl  and now sometimes Xylazine as well  into the drugs.

MATTERS and other treatment groups have been marketing and publicizing harm reduction practices, urging people who plan to use opioids to test their product for fentanyl and Xylazine, to have Narcan on hand and to only use if there is someone else around who can administer it if the user stops breathing.

Lynch said its great that MATTERS is filling so many requests for free Narcan and test strips, but there may be delays with places requesting it and having to wait for it to be mailed.

MATTERS will also mail free supplies to anyone who requests them via its website but having to do so and provide a mailing address could be a barrier, Lynch said.

With the vending machines, we put them outside so someone can be anonymous about walking up and getting what they need 24 hours a day, he said.

People can select up to three kits at a time from the machines just by entering a code (8377), year of birth and ZIP code. Each pack of test strips contains 10 trips and each box of Narcan contains two doses.

Lynch said asking for a persons date of birth and ZIP code will help MATTERS collect data including what times of day people are using the vending machine and whether people are traveling to access them.

Hopefully we will get some useful data that we can share with other states who want to build their own programs, Lynch said.

Arena said the vending machines and mail-order supplies are not just for drug users  especially when it comes to Narcan, because fentanyl is now routine in all heroin being sold in the drug market.

Pure heroin doesnt exist anymore, she said. These days it either contains Fentanyl or is 100% Fentanyl.

For that reason, she said, the fentanyl test strips are for testing cocaine, which is increasingly being cut with fentanyl. Meanwhile, Xylazine is finding its way into heroin as well as fentanyl because it extends the effect of fentanyl, she said.

Even people who think they will never encounter someone suffering a drug overdose should consider keeping Narcan around just in case. Arena said one local person who keeps Narcan in her car saved the life of an addict who overdosed in a gas station parking lot while she was getting gas.

Every first aid kit should have a box of Narcan, she said.
I recently read an article regarding how the U.S. Senate wants to investigate how well reserved Florida Citizens is because of their expressed concern that if a large hurricane destroys enough property insured by Florida Citizens, will Florida Citizens have the wherewithal to pay claims?

That seems like a pretty reasonable question to ask and because the state is the insurer, a reasonable person might conclude that a bias exists if the state insurance department reviews the state insurance company (read the lawsuits/charges between the California Department of Insurance and the California state insurance company for interesting perspectives on this point).

A commentary in the article struck me as circular logic. Some Florida insurance people think Florida Citizens is the best capitalized insurance company in the U.S. because in the event of a storm,  Florida law [requires] surcharges and assessments on its policyholders and all Florida insurance consumers  . That is a reciprocal, though being a state insurance company, it is not called a reciprocal.

If a huge storm, maybe a Hurricane Andrew-level storm, hits causing a problem with Florida Citizens being able to pay all its claims, then the state will assess its policyholders per this perspective. Due to the storm, some portion of its policyholders will have lost all their property and they will experience long delays to rebuild  if, and its a big IF (look at Ft. Myers for proof) they can afford to rebuild. And yet, the state is mandating those policyholders pay them more money so they can afford to pay that money back to resolve the claim.

Given how many people have decided to go naked relative to homeowners insurance in Florida, would the pool of insureds not affected by a large storm be big enough? And I wonder how everyone else in the state would react if they were assessed a large sum given how much money they are already paying? If I were one of those policyholders, I might advise them to stick their assessment where the sun doesnt shine.

It seems the Senate has a reasonable point unless you believe the assumption that all the good citizens of Florida will gladly and willingly pay more for someone elses claims or even their own claim for which theyve already paid premiums. Clearly that is the religion some people are practicing.

The same goes though for regular assessable reciprocals. Quite a few property reciprocals have been created from scratch in the last few years. If you have one where all their surplus is in the form of a loan and/or the potential to assess policyholders, how secure is their true surplus? How happy will their lenders be if the carrier goes insolvent due to claims and, simultaneously, how happy will policyholders be when their home has been destroyed and they get their assessment bill in whatever mailbox might still exist?

Sure, on paper it all works out. Given the private equity compensation model some of these carriers have developed, some of the executives will be just fine since they get paid upfront, not based on performance and without claw backs in case of insolvency.

To be clear, I am not picking on Florida. They just provide an easy example for readers to digest. More reciprocals exist than most agents know. I have met many agents selling reciprocal products across the country who did not realize the carrier was a reciprocal. I have met many agents who have had no idea what is different about a reciprocal. To varying degrees, reciprocal insurance companies do not have to have money in the bank or in bonds to the extent regular carriers must, because they theoretically have the ability to assess their clients.

Maybe these official solvency calculations work on paper, but are they ivory tower calculations? If push comes to shove, how much money will actually be collected from an insured in Ft. Myers, Florida, who has lost their home, possibly because they did not purchase or their carrier did not offer adequate ordinance and law coverage (and if their loss is deemed a flood loss, that policy typically has limits far too low for rebuilding to current code), cant rebuild, and they must find a new home while paying an assessment? This could just as easily be a wildfire or some other event.

If you are the agent, what duty do you have to explain to a client that they, the insured, are the insurance company? By buying insurance from an assessable reciprocal, do they understand theyre promising some of their own money to pay for claims? This might be a point worth disclosing even though the reciprocal carriers are supposed to provide additional disclosures to insureds explaining this. The agent might want to provide an additional explanation because the agent is the one who will have to deal with the problem.

Not all reciprocals have the same issues. Some have proven their ability to pay without assessing clients for decades. Not all reciprocals are assessable either. As with any market, agents have a duty to understand the carrier with whom they are placing business. This duty extends to your staff because they likely place most personal lines accounts, so your staff having this knowledge is extremely important.

Do regulators and politicians understand that a small reciprocal with no material geographic dispersion is really rolling the dice with policyholders futures? I understand the level of desperation in some states, but not all states are in the same position. And maybe even in the more desperate states, better knowledge could help regulators better craft consumer protections.

Similarly, everyone in the agency needs to understand the difference between surplus lines and admitted markets. They need to understand the extra risks of surplus lines. I find many people dont know the critical differences resulting in materially higher risks than necessary. They need to understand how some of these newer carriers are really MGAs and how this affects the way an application must be written.

This goes for the regulators, too. In some cases, states are so desperate for any carrier, no one seems to want to look too hard. Its better to have some carrier than no carrier. I agree, until the carrier cant pay claims.

The solution varies by line and state, but in general, why would smart capital enter a market where poorly capitalized companies can take on market share and whose owners will be paid well regardless of whether the market survives the next storm? Why should they enter a market where the state fund underprices them because the state fund cant go insolvent? Why should they enter a market where some carriers surplus is accepted but maybe not actually in equity or cash? The ROI is too small for well capitalized carriers. The deck is stacked in favor of weak carriers.

A stable insurance market is more likely if the surplus requirements in quantity and quality are such that the barrier to entry is too high for marginal players. The idea of needing a sandbox for discovery of new solutions is great, provided enough surplus exists. A funny fact exists in the insurance world and that is, no matter the model, eventually a carrier needs to be profitable and generate quality surplus adequate to support its premiums. Sandboxes should always require adequate (use a BCAR rating equal to industry average as a good benchmark) surplus regardless of the model.

Solid surplus, in quantity and quality, correlates strongly to market stability. This boring fact needs to be appreciated by regulators and agents. And disclosures to policyholders is critical to their well-being and agents E&O.

Topics Florida Carriers Agencies Insurance Wholesale
This years January reinsurance renewals were described by brokers as stable, predictable, orderly, calmer, disciplined, with increased appetites and a return to supply/demand balance. What a difference in tone from last years grueling January renewals.

In a marked change on a year ago, the supply of property catastrophe reinsurance capacity at the January 1 renewal was more than adequate to meet demand, resulting in a competitive environment for peak perils and upper layers, according to Aon in a market report titled Reinsurance Market Dynamics  January 2024.

Indeed, Aon said, most reinsurers entered the renewals with ambitions to grow in property catastrophe reinsurance and the market was therefore more consistent in its approach to pricing and terms.

This year, property supply and demand has snapped back into balance, with returns for the first three quarters of 2023 exceeding reinsurers increased cost of capital, according to Gallagher Res 1st View report, aptly titled What a Difference a Year Makes.

Retained earnings, modest new capital raises, ample retrocessional capacity and buoyant ILS markets combined to increase available catastrophe reinsurance limit, the report noted.

Gallagher Re said the structural changes seen during the January 2023 renewals really were an exception, with a much calmer renewal period and an improved alignment of all parties expectations leading into 2024.

The January 2024 renewal season provided a welcome return to more stability and predictability, allowing the expectations of all parties to be managed in a less rancorous fashion than 12 months ago, Gallagher Re affirmed.

The January 1, 2024 treaty renewal proceeded relatively smoothly, as a rebound in profitability, rebuilding capital positions and greater availability of retrocession capacity encouraged many reinsurers to display increased appetites at the enhanced terms established in 2023, said Aons report.

Renewals took place in an environment of more favourable supply dynamics, but also underwriting discipline, according to Howden in a release that accompanied its market report titled A new world. The result was a relatively stable and orderly renewal, with supply more than sufficient to meet increased demand.

Pricing was stable overall, with any significant variation by territory or line of business informed by loss experience. Structures saw incremental changes, having undergone significant adjustments in 2023, the Howden report said.

Dedicated reinsurance capital has recovered to near record levels. Generationally strong pricing, favourable terms and conditions in key lines of business and pursuant, higher returns on capital have enticed capacity back into the market through multiple channels, commented David Flandro, head of Industry Analysis and Strategic Advisory, Howden Tiger, in a statement.

This, combined with a rapid recovery in traditional balance sheets has meant there was excess capacity for some placements. The structure of the reinsurance market continues to change, with alternative capital now comprising nearly a quarter of the total, Flandro added.

Retentions remained stable as healthy levels of capacity put pressure on pricing, and over-placements led to strong signings. Capacity for frequency protection was once again at a premium. This led to stronger competition further up programs, with some higher-attaching layers oversubscribed and competitively priced, Howdens report continued.

Towards the end of the renewal season, discussions focused on reinsurer signing activity as supply increase outstripped demand year on year. Expected returns remain a key hurdle for reinsurers as underwriting remained front and center for renewals, but capacity was available where return thresholds were met, Aons report said.

Gallagher Re also pointed to signs of over-placements on well-structured programs, which indicates that some buyers will see improving positions going into 2024. From a pricing and structure perspective, reinsurers managed to hold their positions, but perhaps not always their shares, and some buyers remain dissatisfied about the lack of available capacity for earnings protections, Gallagher Re said.

Cedent Challenges

For many cedents, it was a challenging year. Capital buffers had already been eroded by unrealized investment losses going into 2023 and many were carrying less reinsurance coverage principally in the form of higher retentions forced by reinsurers in 2023, said Aon, noting that insured losses from natural catastrophes were again at elevated levels relative to historic averages.

Insured catastrophe losses exceeded US$100 billion for the fourth straight year in 2023, indicating an elevated baseline for loss expectations. The lions share of insured losses were borne by insurers following reinsurers structural retreat from frequency risks through 2023s renewal cycle, according to Howdens report.

These global catastrophe claims were driven mainly by an unprecedented impact from severe convective storm activity in the US and Italy, windstorm Ciaran in France, flood losses in New Zealand, flood and wildfire losses in Greece, a major earthquake in Turkey and Hurricane Otis in Mexico, Aon said.

Such losses not only eroded capital, but they also introduced more volatility into underwriting results and resulted in increased rating agency scrutiny for many insurers which has driven some increased demand for reinsurance protection going into 2024, Aon continued.

Ceding companies also had to bear most of the losses from severe convective storms (SCS), which exceeded US$59 billion in 2023. U.S. insurers assumed most of the SCS losses net, given increased retentions and the scarcity of aggregate protection, said Gallagher. Divergence also exists in personal and commercial lines, with those operating in tightly regulated markets having limited ability to pass on the increased cost of risk.

Better Communication

Howdens report noted that reinsurers plans were better telegraphed in the weeks leading up to Jan. 1, 2024, which meant that the tensions and dislocations that characterised last years renewal were far less acute.

Aon agreed by saying that this years property renewals proceeded in a timely manner, with most reinsurers taking a more constructive and open approach.

Following a challenging 2023, global insurers have renewed their focus on trading relationships, reinforcing the value placed on consistent reinsurer communication and the breadth of trading relationships, Aon said.

Indeed, Aon emphasized that differentiation in the behavior of both insurers and reinsurers was important during the January 2024 renewals. Generally, insurers looked to reward reinsurers that were most supportive during the challenging 2023 renewals, Aon noted.

Topics Agencies Reinsurance
While todays insurance agency errors and omissions (E&O) market remains mostly stable, emerging exposures, cyber risk, natural disasters and more could shape its course ahead. Thats according to experts who shared their perspectives on the markets latest developments and outlook in a webinar hosted by Insurance Journals Andrea Wells.

Changing Exposures

Elizabeth Whitney, head of U.S. agents at Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, has seen an increase in hired and non-owned auto claims. The suspected reason? During the pandemic, businesses that may not have normally offered delivery services pivoted.

And so, they can be a pitfall if agencies arent asking questions around that, and theyre not advising their client that they need to make sure they have that coverage in place, she said. And then another place, kind of related to that, where weve seen a rise of claims is around excess insurance.

Brad Schreck, national claims manager at PCF Insurance Services, said his company has seen exposures arise from wholesalers placing coverage for its clients. Due to the hard market, coverage placement has become more difficult, which naturally leads to wholesalers and MGAs. When independent brokers assume that wholesalers are quoting them on the same coverage as admitted carriers, it can lead to exposures.

Brent Winans, vice president of Clear Advantage Risk Management, echoed this point. Switching to an excess and surplus market and failing to check if something like hired and non-owned auto is on the policy, for example, thats just the kind of exposure that you end up with, he said.

Artificial Intelligence

As intriguing as generative artificial intelligence platforms like Chat GPT are, they do present pitfalls. Agency owners who dont think anyone in their agencies is using it are probably wrong, Whitney said, and she urged owners to have discussions with their staff about proper use. A lot of the tools out there are open source, so if you type in a clients name and information  its out there now, Whitney said. You really need to be very careful with client confidential information.

Schreck later added that its pretty clear that carriers havent wrapped their arms around this yet, either. So, if an insurance agency is using artificial intelligence to market, complete policy checks or fill out applications and an error results from that, we havent seen what the carriers are going to do with their forms, he said.

And  I dont think you want to be the first agency to set that precedent and open that exposure, Schreck said.

Underinsured Properties

As claims costs increase, appraisals that were completed even as recently as 18 months ago may no longer be accurate, Whitney said. And Schreck noted that even when agents extend and document proper coverage, there can still be the expectation from clients, especially following a catastrophe and loss on a large scale, that the agent should have known that I need higher coverages, even though I signed off on the lower coverage.

When a large catastrophe claim occurs, it becomes a question of survival for policyholders, and they look for any available resource to go after. Thats where exposure risk arises for agency partners, Schreck said: trying to stay ahead of that curve and anticipate needs  even if its something that the client doesnt know they need.

If you offer it and they dont take it, you make sure you get it in writing, Whitney said.

Buying Coverage

Whitney encouraged agents to review their coverage limits annually. She explained how taking on bigger clients that have bigger exposures factors into decision-making, and she emphasized the importance of examining the insolvency portion of coverage.

Winans used a rhetorical scenario to highlight that a million dollars 20 years ago is not the same as a million dollars today. He asked how many million-dollar homes an agency insured two decades ago and how many million-dollar homes they insure today. If many of those homes were hit by the same flood tomorrow and the insureds were never offered excess flood insurance, what limits would they need? Its just a different magnitude that were dealing with now in insurance limits, as with everything else, he said.

Schreck agreed: More coverage is always recommended.

Carrier Assistance

E&O carriers really can be an enormous help to the agent in being able to resolve situations where the primary carrier is denying coverage, Winans said.

And they can assist a great deal, sometimes, too, with communication with the insureds about whats going on and get the agent out of the middle.

Topics Trends Training Development
The family of a man who died by suicide at a Virginia jail after his antipsychotic medication was discontinued has received a $1.75 million settlement in a civil lawsuit.

Records at U.S. District Court in Alexandria show that the family of Christopher Lapp, who died in 2021 at the Alexandria jail, accepted the settlement offer Thursday from a psychiatrist who worked at the facility and was the target of the suit.

Lapp, who was 62 when he died, was being held at the jail awaiting sentencing on a federal charge for the armed robbery of a Wells Fargo Bank in Great Falls in November 2018. Lapp was bipolar and had a history of mental health problems, and the robbery occurred during what the judge called a manic episode and what his familys lawyer described as a psychotic break.

He was initially found incompetent to stand trial but was restored to competency after being sent to the federal medical prison in Butner, North Carolina, where he received mental health care.

Lapp then decided to plead guilty to the bank robbery charge. Judge, T.S. Ellis III accepted the plea but ordered that Lapp be returned to Butner while he awaited sentencing so he could continue treatment.

But Butner refused to take him back, saying it had a policy against accepting an inmate who had not yet been sentenced for continuity of care purposes.

Lapp remained at the Alexandria jail, and the psychiatrist who evaluated him there ended his medications after Lapp insisted he did not need them.

Lapp hanged himself in his cell in May 2021, roughly a month after his plea. In a note left behind for his daughter, he wrote that some bad people have been after me for a while.

A month later Ellis chastised Butner officials during a hearing for disregarding his order. He also accepted a measure of blame himself  Lapps lawyer had filed notice to the court in late April that Butner refused to admit his client, but Ellis said he was unaware that Lapp had not been transferred.

Last month a different judge dismissed the federal government as a defendant in the civil suit but allowed the case to continue against the jail psychiatrist.

The settlement includes no admission of guilt or liability. In court papers, the psychiatrists lawyers argued, among other things, that Lapp didnt want to take the antipsychotic medications and he had no ability to force him.

The jail declined to comment Friday.

Lapp was a nuclear physicist who had multiple degrees including a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His father, Ralph Lapp, was a scientist who worked on the Manhattan Project.

He lived in a wealthy Great Falls neighborhood where he owned a $1.3 million home. Prosecutors said in court papers that Lapp had multiple romantic interests, including a Playboy model, and he was working to keep his romantic love interests happy with additional money.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Virginia
Thirty-seven Massachusetts communities damaged by flooding last year will be getting a share of $10 million in disaster relief funding, the governors administration said Saturday.

The funding being released is from the supplemental budget the Legislature passed and Gov. Maura Healey signed in December. It included $15 million for municipalities that had damage or emergency response expenses from extreme weather over the last year, Healys administration said. The remaining $5 million will be distributed in the spring to help cities and towns hurt by September storms, it said.

The administration will also boost funding for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program and the additional $7 million will help communities plan, design and build nature-based solutions to inland flooding, Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said.

Were proud to be delivering the first round of these funds to 37 cities and towns to relieve some of the burden theyve been facing, and were also going to increase support for municipalities in their efforts to reduce the risk of flooding in their communities through the MVP, Healy said in a statement.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Flood Massachusetts
Anyone who has lived through a natural disaster and then applied to the federal government for assistance knows that it can be a lengthy, frustrating and bureaucratic process. New rules announced Friday by the federal agency in charge of emergency management aim to simplify and speed up the process.

With natural disasters now affecting more people across the United States, insurance markets in many states are buckling under the weight of payouts to those hit by wildfires and hurricanes.

Deanne Criswell, who heads the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said the changes, going into effect in March, are designed to make it easier for disaster survivors to get help  a challenge for those often struggling to recover from the worst day of their lives.

Mother Nature is not letting up, Criswell said to reporters on a call announcing the changes. We need to be better prepared and better informed to recover from natural disasters faster and more effectively.

Criswell described the changes as the most comprehensive update to our individual assistance program in 20 years. She said the changes were the result of a huge amount of feedback from survivors, organizations that work in disaster recovery, and elected officials.

Here are some of the changes outlined by FEMA:

HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS WITH NOT ENOUGH INSURANCE

Under previous rules, homeowners who had received payments from their insurance company for home repairs but not enough to cover all of the damage were essentially out of luck when it came to getting help from FEMA. Now those homeowners can apply to FEMA for help. Criswell gave an example of a homeowner who has $80,000 in damage but receives only $45,000 from the insurance company. Previously, FEMA couldnt help them because their insurance payout already exceeded the agencys assistance cap of $42,500 per disaster. Now, that homeowner can get money from the agency to make up the difference. This rule change comes at a time when homeowners in places like Louisiana, Florida and California are facing skyrocketing deductibles and fights with insurance companies over damage assessments that have made it difficult even for people with insurance to recover from hurricanes or wildfires.

Samantha L. Montano, an assistant professor of emergency management at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, called this change a pretty massive internal shift and questioned why it hadnt been done before. She said survivors are increasingly receiving estimates from insurance companies that are much lower than the cost of repairs or inspectors saying that the damage was pre-existing and as such not covered. That leaves homeowners increasingly in the position that they have to sue their insurance company or figure out how to make up the difference on their own.

GETTING RID OF THE LOAN RULE

Under previous rules, disaster survivors first had to apply for a loan with the Small Business Administration and get rejected before they could apply for FEMA assistance. Criswell said survivors found the SBA application requirement confusing and challenging, so the agency is eliminating that requirement.

Al Cathey, who was mayor of Mexico Beach, Florida, when Hurricane Michael leveled almost every building in the Panhandle beach town in 2018, said he welcomed the changes given the bureaucracy and paperwork he encountered when he went to apply for an SBA loan for his destroyed hardware store.

After going to a trailer where SBA workers handed him a large packet of papers, and seeing how many people he would have to be interviewed by to get the loan, he decided it wasnt worth it even though he was about $200,000 short of the money needed to reopen the store.

I got frustrated with them myself. I didnt want to get involved with all that government red tape, Cathey said Friday. I understand the need for guidelines and policies, but, my God, the paperwork they wanted from me to start the approval process. This was a disaster, but you would think they thought I wanted the money for a vacation.

CHANGES TO CRITICAL NEEDS ASSISTANCE

The agency has had something called critical needs assistance, currently $750, that survivors can use for whatever they need right after a disaster: baby formula or food, for example. But states or tribal nations had to specifically request that category of assistance, and it was only done on a case-by-case basis. Now, anytime a disaster is declared that includes FEMAs individual assistance funding stream, those $750 payments will be available. Survivors still have to apply, and there is some vetting to prevent fraud. But it bypasses the application that states and tribal nations had to make. That doesnt mean that every disaster will include these payments. Many declared disasters are more limited in scope.

OTHER CHANGES

Disaster survivors with disabilities can use FEMA money to make changes to their homes to make them more accessible, whereas under previous rules the agency would only pay to rebuild things that had been damaged in the disaster. People with pre-existing problems in their home, like a leaky roof, can now get money from the agency to fix the house. Currently, the agency requires that if it is giving people money to fix something, it had to have worked before the disaster.

And FEMA is creating a new category of aid called displacement assistance, designed to help those who cant return to their home. It gives them money for housing while theyre looking for a long-term rental and has flexibility so that they can, for example, use the money to pay a friends utilities if theyre crashing on a couch.

Zack Rosenburg, the co-founder and CEO of St. Bernard Project, which does recovery work across the country, said the changes are a step in the right direction. He said the vast majority of people their organization works with in the wake of natural disasters hate asking the government for help.

For some, they see it as humiliating. For some, they see it as anathema or inconsistent in who they are. They just dont like doing it, he said.

And then when they do, they encounter a maze of requests for information.

He particularly praised the changes getting rid of the mandatory SBA application, efforts to simplify the application process and the changes allowing FEMA money even if people had preexisting problems with their homes: This will allow more resilient rebuilding.

But, he said, the details of how the changes are communicated to people will be crucial, and he suggested other things that would help such as making the changes retroactive to people who already have claims in the pipeline. He said the SBP has also been pushing for years for one application that can be used to apply for FEMA, SBA and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which funds longer-term recoveries.

Overall, Montano said, these are all good and needed changes, but we still need to do more. Like any new government policy, it depends on how things play out once the policies go into effect. And, she said, theres likely still room to improve things like the appeal process or giving survivors more time to apply for aid. And, she noted, FEMA is one part  albeit an important part  of disaster recovery. She said Congress needs to step in to increase the cap on individual assistance to disaster survivors and there needs to be more oversight of the insurance industry.

The new rules go into effect March 22. The changes are expected to cost $671 million per year, with $159 million of that borne by the states and tribal nations where the disasters occur.

Photo: A boat sits amidst debris in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael in Mexico Beach, Fla. Oct. 11, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Microsoft Corp. said a Russian-linked hacking group attacked its corporate systems, getting into a small number of email accounts, including those of senior leadership and employees who work in cybersecurity and legal.

The company said its acting immediately to fix older systems, which will probably cause some disruption.

The hacking group doesnt appear to have accessed customers systems or Microsoft servers that run outward-facing products, the software giant said Friday in a blog post. Microsoft also has no evidence the group, named Midnight Blizzard, got into source code or artificial intelligence systems.

We will act immediately to apply our current security standards to Microsoft-owned legacy systems and internal business processes, even when these changes might cause disruption to existing business processes, the company said. This will likely cause some level of disruption.

The group that Microsoft deemed responsible, also known as Nobelium, is a sophisticated nation-state hacking group that the US government has tied to Russia. The same group previously breached SolarWinds Corp., a US federal contractor, as part of a massive cyber-espionage effort against US federal agencies.

The company said hackers beginning in November used a password spray attack to infiltrate its systems. That technique, sometimes known as a brute force attack, typically involves outsiders quickly trying multiple passwords on specific user names in order to try breaching targeted corporate accounts.

In this case, in addition to the accessed accounts, the attackers also took emails and attached documents. Microsoft said it detected the hack on Jan. 12, adding that the company is still notifying employees whose emails were accessed.

Eric Goldstein, executive assistant director for cybersecurity at the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, said government officials are closely coordinating with Microsoft to gain additional insights into this incident and understand impacts so we can help protect other potential victims.

Microsoft technology has frequently been the target of major hacking campaigns.

The US Cyber Safety Review Board, which reports to the Department of Homeland Security, is already assessing a 2023 intrusion against Microsoft Exchange Online that the company attributed to China-linked hackers. That breach enabled the hack of senior US officials email accounts and has prompted growing concerns about cloud computing security. Microsoft said in September it identified five different errors in how its systems that have been corrected.

In an interview with Bloomberg in 2023 following that breach, Jen Easterly, director of the agency that manages the board, suggested that Microsoft should recapture the ethos of what Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates called trustworthy computing in 2002, when he instructed employees to focus on security over adding new features.

I absolutely positively think they have to focus on ensuring their products are both secure by default and secure by design, and we are going to continue to work with them to urge them to do that, Easterly said of Microsoft.

In November, Microsoft said it was overhauling how it protects its software and systems after a series of high-profile hacks. Now the company said it must pick up the pace on changes, particularly to older systems and products.

For Microsoft, this incident has highlighted the urgent need to move even faster, the company said Friday.

Photo: Photographer: Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics Cyber Russia
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recommended that airlines operating Boeing 737-900ER jets inspect door plugs to ensure that they are properly secured after some operators reported unspecified issues with bolts upon inspections.

Regulators have stepped up scrutiny on Boeing after a Jan. 5 mid-air panel blowout on an eight-week-old Alaska Airlines MAX 9 jet that left a gaping hole in the aircraft. Boeing has sought to contain the damage, appointing an independent advisor to examine quality control in its manufacturing processes while numerous planes remain grounded.

The FAA grounded 171 Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes after the Jan. 5 incident.

In its new Safety Alert for Operators, the FAA said that some airlines had conducted additional inspections on the 737-900ER mid-exit door plugs and had noted findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections.

The 737-900ER is more widely used than the 737 MAX 9. It is an older model but has the same optional door plug design that allows for the addition of an extra emergency exit door when carriers opt to install more seats.

There are 490 Boeing 737-900ER jets in service, at least 79 of which have an active door rather than the plug because they are operated by low-cost airlines with denser cabins, according to Cirium data.

The FAA recommended that carriers perform key portions of a fuselage plug assembly maintenance procedure related to the four bolts used to secure the door plug to the airframe as soon as possible.

A Boeing spokesperson said: We fully support the FAA and our customers in this action.

Boeing first delivered the 737-900ER in 2007 and the last one in 2019.

Boeing BA.N shares were down 0.8% in morning trading on Monday. They are down more than 17% since the beginning of the year.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the only two U.S. carriers that use the MAX 9, this month said they had found loose parts on multiple grounded MAX 9 aircraft during preliminary checks.

They have had to cancel thousands of flights this month because of the grounding, with United cancellations extending at least through Friday. Alaska did not immediately comment on how long it planned to extend cancellations.

The FAA on Sunday said MAX 9 planes will remain grounded until it is satisfied they are safe to return to service.

LITTLE 900ER DISRUPTION SEEN

In contrast to the new MAX 9 that experienced the door-plug issue, Boeing 737-900ER aircraft have more than 11 million hours of operation and 3.9 million flight cycles, and the FAA said the door plug has not been an issue with this model.

Both United and Alaska said they had begun inspections of the door plugs on their 737-900ER fleets. United, which has 136 737-900ER aircraft, said inspections should be completed in the next few days without customer disruptions.

Alaska said its inspections began several days ago without any findings so far.

Delta Air Lines, the largest operator of the 900ER, said it had opted to take proactive measures to inspect its fleet. It does not expect any operational impact.

Globally, the three U.S. carriers operate the vast majority of the 737-900ERs with the door plugs.

A spokesperson for Korean Air, which has six 737-900ERs, said it planned to carry out additional inspections and finish them within 30 days without any schedule disruption.

The FAA on Wednesday said inspections of an initial group of 40 Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets had been completed, a key hurdle to ending the grounding of the model. The FAA is continuing to review data from those inspections.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker told Reuters this month that the FAA was going through a process to work out how to restore confidence in the integrity of these plug doors.

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy last week said that the investigative agency would be looking at numerous records related to the door plug. She said it was unclear if the bolts on the Alaska Airlines jet were properly secured or if they were actually installed at all.

Topics Aviation Aerospace Alaska
Johnson & Johnson is seeking to move a unit to Texas as it prepares for a potential third bankruptcy court filing to resolve more than 50,000 lawsuits alleging tainted talc in its baby powder caused cancer.

The company filed a request last month with the Texas secretary of states office to relocate its LTL Management unit to Austin and rename it ahead of a Chapter 11 filing in the state, according to the Dec. 19 filing and people familiar with the plan.

J&J has put the LTL subsidiary into Chapter 11 twice before in hopes of imposing a $9 billion settlement on former users of the product. Both cases, filed in J&Js home state of New Jersey, were thrown out. The decade-long litigation, plus the prospect of potential future cancer suits, is limiting its stock price, analysts have said.

J&J, based in New Brunswick, wouldnt say where the bankruptcy case would be filed or comment on the timing, but has said it is working hard toward a resolution of its current and future talc cases.

Consistent with the plan we outlined last year following the New Jersey bankruptcy courts dismissal of the case, the company continues to pursue several paths to achieve a comprehensive resolution of the talc litigation, Erik Haas, its in-house lawyer overseeing the cases, said in a statement. He said that includes a new bankruptcy filing, as strongly recommended by the court.

Texas Two-Step

Texas law lets companies assign liability from mass tort cases to a unit that can file for bankruptcy. The maneuver, known as the Texas Two-Step, has drawn criticism from some legal experts for allowing solvent companies to use bankruptcy court to force settlements on claimants.

More broadly, J&J has been grappling with opposition to a bankruptcy filing anywhere. Chapter 11 rules let corporations put money into trusts that decide how much claimants should be paid, instead of allowing juries to decide damages. Many J&J claimants have vocally opposed relying on a trust to decide compensation.

In July, a judge in New Jersey rejected J&Js second bankruptcy attempt, in which the company sought to get claimants backing for its $9 billion settlement offer. The judge said J&J didnt meet the test for financial distress. An appeals court threw out the first case on the same grounds.

Some legal experts said they expect a third J&J bankruptcy case to go the way of the other two. Melissa Jacoby, a University of North Carolina law professor and bankruptcy expert, said the chances of a new talc Chapter 11 case succeeding should be zero.

But that wont stop J&J from trying, she said.

Pursuit of Accountability

If it succeeds, the profitable parent company will get financial and legal benefits out of a third LTL bankruptcy case as it stalls, Jacoby said in an emailed statement. Pursuit of accountability outside of bankruptcy will be halted.

In the meantime, she added, more claimants may succumb to their illnesses.

Once a company files for Chapter 11, judges can halt all litigation against it while the bankruptcy case proceeds. J&J faces a spate of jury trials this year over claims it knew for more than 50 years that talc in its baby powder could cause cancer and continued to sell it.

Since 2014, at least a dozen juries have awarded a total of more than $6.5 billion in damages to consumers blaming the powder for their cancers, according to data compiled by Bloomberg News. Some of those awards later were reduced or thrown out on appeal.

J&J maintains that its talc-based products dont cause cancer and that it has marketed its baby powder appropriately for more than a century. The company has won a number of cases in court and had other suits dismissed before trial.

J&J pulled its talc-based powders off the market in the US and Canada in 2020, citing slipping sales, and replaced talcum with a cornstarch-based version. J&J vowed to remove all its baby powders containing talcum powder worldwide by the end of last year.

The consolidated case is In Re Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Products Marketing, Sales Practices and Products Liability Litigation, 16-md-2738, US District Court, District of New Jersey (Trenton).

Photo: Photographer: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images North America

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics Texas New Jersey
Progressive Casualty Insurance and North Carolina-based Builders Mutual Insurance Co. have been served with class-action lawsuits over data breaches on their own computer systems in 2022, cyber attacks that may have exposed the personal data of more than 411,000 people.

Plaintiffs bring this class action against Builders Mutual for its failure to properly secure and safeguard Plaintiffs and other similarly situated individuals name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and workers compensation information  from hackers, reads the amended complaint against Builders Mutual, filed last week in federal court in North Carolina.

In federal court in South Carolina, plaintiff Dodie Waden, a resident of Columbia, South Carolina, and others made similar allegations about Progressive, which had learned of a data breach in May 2023.

Defendant knew or should have known that due the increasing number of well-publicized data breaches that have occurred in the United States, large data storage such as this require the highest level of protection, which Defendant failed to provide, reads the complaint.

While insurers worldwide in recent years have faced insured losses from cyber attacks on their policyholders, as well as some thorny litigation about the extent of coverage, relatively few carriers have seen class actions over reported breaches in their own computers. Marsh & McLennan Companies were famously sued by an employee after a 2021 computer breach reportedly exposed personal information to cyber criminals. That case is still pending, but an appeals court ruling last fall opened the door for more U.S. lawsuits alleging harm from cyber attacks, even when plaintiffs provide no evidence that the data was improperly used.

Mapfre USA and its affiliate Commerce Insurance Co. also were hit with class actions last September over a data breach that may have exposed personal information on some 260,000 people.

Now, Progressive and Builders Mutual face their own litigation after the 2022 breaches. Builders Mutual, with headquarters in Raleigh and contractor coverage in several Southeastern states, reported the attack to regulators in September 2023, but that was well after after suspicious computer activity was discovered, the plaintiffs said.

Builders Mutual waited nine months to notify the public, including Plaintiffs and Class Members, that they were at risk, the lawsuit alleges.

The Builders Mutual plaintiffs, which include Matthew Kocher and Mark Rogolino, of Florida, and James Jackson, of Virginia, is asking for millions of dollars in damages. The suit contends that more than 100 other plaintiffs could join the lawsuit. Altogether, personal data on some 64,000 people may have been accessed by criminals in the cyber attack, the suit said.

Builders Mutual, which turns 40 this year, provides workers compensation, general liability, builders risk, auto, property and other coverage to commercial clients, including several home builders associations, according to its website. The firm employs some 365 people and had about $384 million in annual revenue, the lawsuit notes. Michael Gerber is president and CEO.

The mutual insurer failed to follow Federal Trade Commission and other guidelines on cyber security, including removal of personal data when it is no longer needed, and implementation of protections against unauthorized access, the complaint reads.

One plaintiff, Rogolino, has already suffered from identify theft, including fraudulent benefit claims submitted in his name, unauthorized cellphone charges, and thousands of dollars in unauthorized utility charges for services he never received, the suit alleges. Kocher argued that cybercriminals have charged his credit card for movie tickets and for purchases at retail stores.

Builders Mutual has yet to file an answer to the complaint or a motion to dismiss the suit. The company could not be reached for comment Sunday. It was not reported if Builders had secured its own cyber insurance ahead of the 2022 attack or if it is self-insured.

In the Progressive suit, filed last week, the plaintiffs contend that the insurer learned of the breach in May 2023 but did not notify the 347,000 insureds and other victims until August of that year. The complaint argues that Progressive was unjustly enriched by accepting premiums but failed to use its revenue to secure its data. Progressive has not yet answered the complaint.

Cyber attacks and related litigation will likely continue to be a serious threat to insurers bottom lines in the years ahead. A 2022 report from IntSights, a computer security firm, said that the insurance industry is a target for ransomware and other cyber attacks, partly because insurers possess a great deal of personally identifiable information about policyholders. Insured companies also may be targets of hackers due to the perception that those policyholders may be more likely to pay ransoms if they are covered by cyber insurance.

The market for cyber insurance took a hit during the pandemic, but made a comeback in 2023, after significant premium increases, according to news reports.

Topics Lawsuits
North Tonawanda police on Monday released the name of the worker who died last week after becoming trapped in a machine at a manufacturing facility.

Andrew D. Stayzer, 58, of Eden, suffered critical injuries while working at WestRock on Robinson Street, Police Chief Keith Glass said.

Police and firefighters responded to the site, which manufactures corrugated containers, at 7:47 p.m. Thursday.

Stayzer was transported to DeGraff Medical Park where he later was pronounced dead.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is conducting an inspection of the facility, which can take up to six months to complete.

 Aaron Besecker
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Law enforcement agencies are investigating whether social media rumors about a potential water outage prompted people to quickly fill bathtubs with tap water in Mississippis capital during a cold snap and cause a drop in pressure that temporarily made faucets run dry for thousands of customers of the citys long-troubled system.

Taps ran dry Wednesday and Thursday for almost a quarter of Jacksons 52,000 water customers as icy conditions strained local infrastructure. Officials for JXN Water, the private corporation that has been under a federal order to run Jacksons system since late 2022, said a deliberate misinformation campaign was partially to blame. People responded to social media posts by filling bathtubs with water in a short period, causing demand to spike beyond what the water system could support, water manager Ted Henifin said.

JXN Water said in a statement Friday that U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate authorized the release of information about the investigation and advised the corporation on what to communicate to the public.

The organization did not specify which law enforcement agencies are involved or what charges might be brought if people are found to have spread false information on social media.

JXN Water identified one specific social media post, but Palacios said the organization had not traced its origin.

Just got word they are about to shut off water in Jackson, the post said. If youre in Jackson, fill up your tubs and jugs! Get prepared for not having water.

The water woes began as an arctic blast kept temperatures below freezing in Jackson for nearly three days. The temperature rose on Thursday, but the National Weather Service warned that dangerously cold air would return this weekend.

Jackson residents and officials were already concerned that frigid conditions could disrupt the water system. Cold snaps in 2021 and 2022 caused frozen pipes and drops in water pressure across the city of nearly 150,000 residents. People had been told to prepare for past disasters by keeping jugs or bathtubs full of water.

Maintenance crews had restored water to all but about 1,000 customers Friday.

Ameerah Palacios, a spokesperson for JXN Water, said the news release about an investigation was partially written by Wingate, who is overseeing a federal intervention to improve the water system.

Judge Wingate, thats a man who chooses his words very carefully, Palacios told The Associated Press in an interview. The way that he worded it was, all of the appropriate law enforcement agencies, so definitely more than one at play.

A court clerk took a phone message for Wingate on Friday, but the judge did not immediately return a call to the AP.

It was unclear how many Jackson residents saw the social media posts or were influenced by them.

Although JXN Water did not release names of anyone who shared the post it cited, AP identified a Facebook post from Wednesday that had the exact wording. The Facebook account belongs to Bob Hickingbottom of Jackson, who ran unsuccessfully for governor as a Constitution Party candidate in 2019 and tried to run for governor in 2023 before the state Democratic Party removed him from its primary ballot.

In one phone interview with the AP, Hickingbottom said somebody might have put the post on his page.

Something like that would be outside the realm of civilized behavior, Hickingbottom said.

In a second phone call moments later, Hickingbottom said he put the water post on his page and he thought he was sharing information to help people.

Im a flamethrower when it comes to politics, but this is not politics, Hickinbottom said of Jacksons water system.

The latest disruption in Jackson water service came a week after Mississippi health officials issued and then quickly lifted a health advisory after tests identified E. coli in the water supplies of Jackson and a suburb. Henifin said he believed the tests were false positives caused by lab contamination, but the state health department stood by its tests.

Wingate appointed Henifin in November 2022 to oversee reforms to Jacksons water system after infrastructure breakdowns during the late summer of that year caused many city residents to go days without safe running water.

Photo: Ted Henifin, interim water manager for the water system for the city of Jackson, Miss., demonstrates how to run faucet water like a thin line of spaghetti with intermittent breaks in order to deal with freezing weather. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis, File)

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  South Carolinas well-respected transportation leader Christy Hall is retiring after spending the past decade overseeing billions of dollars in highway spending after the state raised its gas tax to fix its roads.

Halls retirement announcement as secretary of the South Carolina Department of Transportation was met with praise across the spectrum.

She took one of the most political jobs in state government  who gets new highways, more lanes and better roads  and made it equitable and based on needs, while also convincing those in power that was the best way to operate.

Hall is a unicorn among state agency heads, unique in her ability to tell people how it is instead of what they want to hear, but also in earning trust that shell do everything she can to solve problems, Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Larry Grooms said Thursday.

We now have objective criteria by which we measure projects. We know what we are going to do and how much it is going to cost before we do it, said the Republican from Bonneau. She took out the guesswork.

In 2015, Hall took over an agency that had three directors in two years. The departments finances were so bad that contractors werent sure they would get paid.

South Carolina roads were in such bad shape that factories were threatening to stop expanding unless the gas tax was raised. But the poor management of DOT was an argument against giving them any more money.

Hall came to work for the road agency fresh out of civil engineering school at Clemson University in the mid-1990s. She rose through the ranks of the agency.

As director, she earned the trust of lawmakers, who said they were impressed with her ability to get as much money as she could from other places to supplement cash from the 12-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase.

A dozen projects expanding interstates or upgrading old interchanges at major crossroads are currently under construction or planned through the end of the decade across South Carolina. They include the long-sought expansion of Interstate 26 to three lanes in each direction where thousands of trucks from the port head from Charleston to Columbia, and the untangling of where Interstates 20, 26 and 126 meet west of downtown Columbia.

Christy Hall has been an unbelievable Secretary for the people of South Carolina. During her tenure, she has more than quadrupled the amount of road and bridge work happening across our state, SCDOT Chairman Tony Cox said in a written statement.

Hall thanked the governor who suggested she get the job, Nikki Haley, and Haleys successor, Henry McMaster. She also thanked lawmakers and the SCDOT board for allowing her to serve at a time when the state experienced unprecedented levels of road and bridge work in every county of the state.

Halls last day is March 31. The SCDOT board on Thursday chose Chief Operating Officer Justin Powell to be her successor. His appointment must be approved by the state Senate.

Halls skills werent just in construction. She got Haleys attention with her leadership during a massive ice storm in 2014 in the Midlands. She made sure roads were quickly reopened during historic floods and hurricanes, including leading an effort to build a temporary barrier that kept floodwaters from surging over U.S. Highway 501 and cutting off Myrtle Beach after Hurricane Florence.

Whether responding to natural disasters or spearheading transformative infrastructure projects, she has consistently delivered for the people of South Carolina, Gov. McMaster said in a statement. She leaves a legacy of excellence and has placed the agency in a position to continue to drive our state forward.

Photo: South Carolina Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall speaks with reporters about a proposal to widen Interstate 26 in 2021. (AP Photo/Michelle Liu, file)

Topics South Carolina
The family of a California college student who vanished nearly three decades ago sued the school, 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.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits California Education Universities
January 22, 2024 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Investorideas.com, a global news source and expert investing resource, announces today's roundup of stocks to watch in the mining sector.

Investing in mining stocks has never looked more exciting with the current market trends in gold, silver, uranium, copper and rare earths.

The newest mining companies Investor Ideas has added are all listed on Canadian exchanges and represent a mix of junior miners for investors. These companies operate throughout North and South America.

Today's stocks have been added to our free lists of stock directories; Mining Stock Directories.

Zonte Metals Inc. (TSXV: ZON) is a junior explorer focused on gold and copper. The Company owns 100% of the MJ project, in the Tintina Gold Belt, located in the Yukon Territory, the Wings Point project in the new Central Newfoundland Gold Belt, and the Cross Hills IOCG project located in Newfoundland and Labrador. In Colombia; the company has a 25% carried interest in Project X where historic drilling intersected significant gold mineralization and the Company and partner have an application over open areas sitting on top of the open pit outline of the Gramalote Deposit in Colombia, which is held by AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU) and B2Gold (TSX:BTO, NYSE:BTG). The title issuance is being contested by the state governing the application and the Company has started legal action to protect its rights.

Capstone Copper Mining Corp. (TSX:CS) is an Americas-focused copper mining company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. We own and operate the Pinto Valley copper mine located in Arizona, USA, the Cozamin copper-silver mine located in Zacatecas, Mexico, the Mantos Blancos copper-silver mine located in the Antofagasta region, Chile, and 70% of the Mantoverde copper-gold mine, located in the Atacama region, Chile. In addition, we own the fully permitted Santo Domingo copper-iron-gold project, located approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Mantoverde in the Atacama region, Chile, as well as a portfolio of exploration properties in the Americas.

Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV: DBG; OTCQB: DBLVF) identifies, acquires and finances precious and base metal exploration projects in North America, particularly in British Columbia. Doubleview increases shareholder value through acquisition and exploration of quality gold, copper and silver properties and the application of advanced state-of-the-art exploration methods. The Company's portfolio of strategic properties provides diversification and mitigates investment risks.

Founders Metals Inc. (TSXV: FDR) is a Canadian exploration company with properties in North and South America. The Company focuses on acquiring and advancing gold projects in the Guiana Shield.

Renegade Gold Inc. (TSXV: RAGE; OTCQX: TGLDF) is a growth focused company engaged in the business of acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties located in the Red Lake Mining District of Northern Ontario. As part of its regional-scale consolidation strategy, the Company has assembled one of the largest prospective land packages in and around the Red Lake mining district in proximity to major mines and deposits, as well as along the Confederation Lake and Birch-Uchi greenstone belts. The recent completion of the acquisition of Pacton Gold Inc. extends the Company's ownership in Red Lake to over 89,600 hectares of prospective and diversified exploration properties with significant potential for gold and critical minerals on trend with the major structures hosting known gold occurrences in the Red Lake mining district today. A portfolio of prospective projects in Western Australia has also been acquired

Emperor Metals Inc. (CSE: AUOZ; OTC Pink: EMAUF) is an innovative Canadian mineral exploration company focused on developing high-quality gold properties situated in the Canadian Shield.

Flow Metals Corp. (CSE: FWM) is a mining exploration company focused on advancing two 100% owned road access projects in established mining districts of British Columbia and Yukon.

The directories are not meant as recommendations but as a research tool to discover opportunities and trading ideas in a particular sector.

For avid mining investors looking for the next great mining play, the Exploring Mining Podcast features expert advice in the sector from some of the best though leaders as well as interviews with CEO's in the industry.

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Vancouver, British Columbia - January 22, 2024 (Newsfile Corp.) (Investorideas.com Newswire) CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed a Property Swap Agreement (the "Agreement") with F3 Uranium Corp. ("F3 Uranium") dated January 16, 2024 for the acquisition of the Nebula Project (the "Nebula Project") in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan (Figure 1). The Nebula Project, formerly known as F3 Uranium's Hobo Lake Property, is located in the southeastern Athabasca Basin and covers 14,854 hectares. The Project is located approximately 35 kilometres southwest of the Key Lake Mine and Mill complex and covers over 40 kilometres of the interpreted Key Lake structural corridor and associated conductors.

Figure 1 - Nebula Project Location

About the Nebula Project

The Nebula Project is located approximately 25 kilometres south of the present-day Athabasca Basin margin and covers the extension of the Key Lake structural corridor and stratigraphy where it trends along the western contact of the highly prospective Wollaston-Mudjatik transition zone (Figure 1). The Project also runs immediately adjacent to Highway 914, providing excellent access to all the claims.

The Nebula Project has been explored in several stages with historical regional and project scale ground and airborne geophysical surveys, focused prospecting programs targeting lake sediment and boulder anomalies, and historical shallow diamond drilling. Historical prospecting in the region identified several uranium occurrences both on and proximal to the project. Most notably, prospecting identified the Karpinka Lake Boulder train in the northern portion of the Nebula Project. The Karpinka Lake Boulder train consists of 111 radioactive boulders, 81 of which returned grab sample results containing up to 0.39% U 3 O 8 .

In 2017, F3 Uranium completed a VTEM Plus airborne geophysical survey on the Project that, in conjunction with historical VTEM surveys, identified a series of conductors associated with an arcuate belt of meta-sedimentary rocks (Figure 2). Follow-up drilling was carried out in 2019, consisting of 1,300 metres in 8 drillholes, that focused on VTEM targets coupled with favourable geology and litho-structural features in the interpreted Key Lake structural corridor. Graphitic meta-sedimentary rocks with fault structures were intersected during the program. The drill program was highlighted by drillhole KL19-005 which intersected a 40 metre wide strongly graphitic, chlorite and clay altered fault zone. This fault target remains open along strike. Prior to this drill program, this 40-kilometre-long section of the Key Lake structural corridor has had limited drill testing.

Figure 2 - Nebula Conductor Map on Key Lake Corridor

The Nebula Project is part of the Company's strategy to increase its landholdings in the infrastructure-rich southeastern Athabasca Basin region. Land acquisitions in this part of the Athabasca Basin deliberately focus on staking or acquiring the interpreted structural corridors that are host to, or geologically similar to, the nearby Key Lake deposits, or corridors with Arrow or Eagle Point basement-hosted uranium potential. This project is well situated in relation to other projects in the Company's portfolio and critical infrastructure such as power, road, and the Key Lake mill. The main target areas on the Nebula Project are centered around the 40-kilometre-long conductive structural corridor which extends from the Key Lake Mine and Mill complex, down through the Company's Key Lake Extension and Voyager projects, and onto the Nebula Project. Off property, the interpreted corridor is host to the Key Lake deposits that consist of a series of east-northeast striking pods of unconformity associated uranium mineralization, which have historically produced over 150 million lbs U 3 O 8 from the Gaertner and Deilmann open pits. The Company believes this target corridor represents a vastly underexplored opportunity for the discovery of basement-hosted uranium deposits like Arrow or Eagle Point.

Initial work by CanAlaska is expected to include property wide compilation of all historical data to generate further target areas for immediate exploration and drilling follow-up.

CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments, "The Nebula Project deal provides CanAlaska with 100% ownership in an area with historical exploration which has already identified several significant uranium occurrences including the large Karpinka Lake Uranium Boulder train. In conjunction with the Company's Key Extension, Voyager, Enterprise, and Constellation projects, CanAlaska now has a semi-contiguous, commanding, and dominant land position in an extremely prospective and underexplored region of the southeastern Athabasca Basin. I am very pleased with the team's effort to assemble this 100%-owned land position in the last 18 months that realizes management's vision of focussing our asset portfolio and shareholder investment near critical mine and mill infrastructure. I thank F3 Uranium management for moving this process forward quickly to help bring value to both asset portfolios."

Property Swap Details

Pursuant to the Property Swap Agreement, CanAlaska agreed to sell its 100% ownership in the two mineral claims comprising the Patterson West Property to F3 Uranium in consideration for the Nebula Project and a 2.5% net smelter returns (NSR) royalty over the Patterson West Property, subject to a buy-back right permitting F3 Uranium to purchase 40% of the NSR royalty (being a 1% NSR royalty) for $3,000,000. Under the same agreement, F3 Uranium agreed to sell its 100% ownership in the 37 mineral claims comprising the Nebula Project to CanAlaska in consideration for the Patterson West Property and a 2.5% NSR royalty over the Nebula Project, subject to a buy-back right permitting CanAlaska to purchase 40% of the NSR royalty (being a 1% NSR royalty) for $3,000,000.

Other News

Join the Company's management team at the Vancouver Resource Investment Conference ("VRIC") on January 21st and 22nd in Vancouver, BC at booth #635 to discuss this and other exciting projects within its portfolio of discovery opportunities. VRIC - 2024

About CanAlaska Uranium

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7) holds interests in approximately 350,000 hectares (865,000 acres), in Canada's Athabasca Basin - the "Saudi Arabia of Uranium." CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco and Denison at two of the Company's properties in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com.

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd., who has reviewed and approved its contents.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Cory Belyk"

Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC

CEO, President and Director

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd.

Contacts:

Cory Belyk, CEO and President

Tel: +1.604.688.3211 x 138

Email: cbelyk@canalaska.com

General Enquiry

Tel: +1.604.688.3211

Email: info@canalaska.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking information

All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

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Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo - January 22, 2024 (Newsfile Corp.) (Investorideas.com Newswire) Ivanhoe Mines (TSX: IVN) (OTCQX: IVPAF) Founder and Executive Co-Chairman Robert Friedland and President Marna Cloete, today extended their congratulations to His Excellency Felix Tshisekedi on his re-election and inauguration as the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Ivanhoe Founder and Executive Co-Chairman Robert Friedland commented:

"On behalf of Ivanhoe Mines, we extend our congratulations to His Excellency Mr. Tshisekedi on winning a second term. This is the nation's fourth successful election since the turn of the century, which is a positive sign of the ongoing development of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's democratic process. The election reinforces our belief that the country is on the cusp of emerging as a major economic power in Africa, with its bountiful endowment of strategic minerals, youthful workforce and exceptional clean, green hydropower potential.

"Ivanhoe Mines continues its commitment to work in partnership with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, developing its mining industry to unlock the rich economic and social potential of this incredible country. This year we will complete the expansion of the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, making it one of the world's top-three copper complexes, as well as return the historic, ultra-high-grade Kipushi zinc-silver-copper-germanium mine to production. In addition, we are incredibly excited about the geological potential across the Western Forelands, as we increase our exploration efforts this year to find new tier-one copper discoveries. We look forward to continuing to develop our warm and long-standing relationship with the DRC government and its people under President Tshisekedi's second term."

DRC President, His Excellency Felix Tshisekedi, alongside Ivanhoe Mines' President Marna Cloete, cuts the ribbon to mark the formal opening of the Kamoa Centre of Excellence, during his visit to Kamoa-Kakula in October 2023.

During his visit to Kamoa-Kakula, His Excellency Felix Tshisekedi, is shown the direct-to-blister smelter construction site by (R-L) Kamoa Copper's Dodo Mbay, Executive, Concentrators; Pontien Kalala, Kakula Mine Manager; and, Magloire Kashiba, Kakula Senior Mine Manager.

Ivanhoe Mines is scheduled to attend the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa in February 2024. The annual conference, Africa's largest mining event, is attended by political leaders, government ministers and representatives of most African nations, international investors, financial institutions, mining industry executives and major news media.

About Ivanhoe Mines

Ivanhoe Mines is a Canadian mining company focused on advancing its three principal projects in Southern Africa; the expansion of the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the DRC, the construction of the tier-one Platreef palladium-nickel-platinum-rhodium-copper-gold project in South Africa; and the restart of the historic ultra-high-grade Kipushi zinc-copper-germanium-silver mine, also in the DRC.

Ivanhoe Mines also is exploring for new copper discoveries across its circa 2,400km2 of 80-100% owned exploration licences, as well as on the 247km2 of newly acquired joint venture licences, in the Western Forelands located adjacent to the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the DRC.

Information contact

Follow Robert Friedland (@robert_ivanhoe) and Ivanhoe Mines (@IvanhoeMines_) on X.

Investors

Vancouver: Matthew Keevil +1.604.558.1034

London: Tommy Horton +44 7866 913 207

Media

Tanya Todd +1.604.331.9834

Website www.ivanhoemines.com

More Info:

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Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions.

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Bernard Arnault plans to appoint two of his sons to the board of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, as the French billionaire continues to groom his children to potentially lead the luxury empire he founded.

Arnaults nomination of sons Alexandre, 31, and Frederic, 29, could come as early as this week, a person familiar with the matter said, confirming a report from online publication La Lettre. LVMH is due to announce annual results on Thursday.

The board nominations would then be subject to a vote at the companys annual general meeting in April. A spokesman for LVMH declined to comment.

The appointments would underscore the familys firm grip on LVMH. Arnault and his family own about 48% of LVMH shares and nearly 64% of voting rights.

Arnault, 74, is the worlds third-wealthiest person, with a fortune of about 148bn according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Hes been grooming his children in a variety of roles at the company as he develops a succession plan.

All five of Arnaults children work at the firm. Delphine, 48, is chief executive officer of Christian Dior Couture, the groups second-biggest fashion label after Louis Vuitton. Shes the only Arnault child to currently sit on LVMHs executive committee.

Antoine Arnault, 46, is responsible for LVMHs image and communications and is a non-executive chairman of cashmere specialist Loro Piana, which belongs to the company. He is also vice chairman and CEO of Christian Dior SE, the holding company through which the Arnault family controls LVMH. Both Delphine and Antoine became board members before the age of 30.

The billionaire founders three youngest sons came via his second marriage, to Canadian concert pianist Helene Mercier. Alexandre has overseen product and communications at Tiffany & Co. for the past three years while Frederic runs the groups watch unit, which includes labels such as Hublot, Tag Heuer and Zenith. Jean, 25, is in charge of developing Louis Vuittons watch category.

In 2022, Arnault lifted the age limit for his CEO role to 80. LVMH last week announced that his close lieutenant Sidney Toledano, 72, will step down from the executive committee.

Bloomberg
Ryanair wants to open five new bases in Spain and expand by 40% in the country by 2030, the airlines boss Eddie Wilson has said in Madrid.

He told reporters at a tourism event that the group aimed to increase passenger traffic to Spain to 77m people from 55m forecast for this year, but Spain needed to have competitive airport charges for that to happen. Ryanair has already built an impressive domestic presence in Italy, and for the airline and other low-cost rivals, Spain is quickly emerging as a major battle ground.
Irish bank shares and other leading stocks in Dublin joined in a buying spree with the rest of Europe as stock markets tracked a Wall Street rally that drove the US benchmark S&P 500 to fresh record highs, while investors awaited the European Central Bank's (ECB's) policy decision later this week.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 index ended 0.8% higher following a 1.5% decline last week. The S&P 500 index in the US logged a fresh record high in the trading session, topping the all-time peak it hit last week that was fuelled by a rally in US chipmakers and heavyweight technology stocks.
For most, the countryside looks magical when Jack Frost is out in full force, but it makes farming a nightmare.

Our whole day every day last week was spent thawing pipes, ensuring everything had water and getting the automatic calf feeder working again. Our milking parlour was partially frozen every day this week, which added at least an extra hour to morning milkings.

We also have a lot of air lines in the parlour for gates and sequential baling, and while we could lift the baling to allow cows to exit the parlour however, ice was blocking valves, meaning the bailing would not come back down.

Thankfully, we are only milking one row of cows at the moment, so it allowed us time during the day to thaw air valves with the trusty diesel heater when it wasnt in use thawing the calf feeder.

We only have four calves on the feeder, so they dont keep it busy enough at night, which allows pipes a chance to freeze. When frosts like this come in late February, we don't seem to have issues with the calf feeder freezing, big numbers of calves keep it busy.

The fresh calvers seem to be enjoying the daily grazing now, they are waiting to go out each morning, and we have been using a paddock that catches the early morning sun, and it really is a joy to watch the cows lying down chewing the cud with the midday sun on their backs.

Dry ground conditions have also afforded us the chance to get some slurry out, which will hopefully help some paddocks with lighter grass covers grow on to provide some grass for March.

I did notice the recommendation this week asking farmers to hold off on spreading slurry until late February when conditions are more favourable.

I think we are all well aware of the value of slurry now, given the cost of artificial fertiliser in the last two years, but I do wonder how Teagasc know conditions will be more favourable in three to four week's time; most weather forecasts are only accurate up to seven days and to be fair cows were housed a lot earlier in the autumn, so everyone's slurry storage tanks are under pressure.

I agree research needs to constantly evolve, but it is getting hard to keep up with all the recommendations, which always encouraged us to get grass growing in early spring. Their current advice is only creating a headline to help fuel the anti-farming activists who thrive on telling farmers they are doing things wrong.

I have so much respect for so many great researchers in Teagasc, some of whom are great friends, but perhaps some at the top would do well to remember that family farms dont have an endless financial budget like the research farms, slurry storage tanks dont fall out of the sky for most of us.

One thing is for certain: when I get their big yearly salaries from dairy farming, Ill certainly invest heavily in concrete to avoid the tax man and ensure I can store a full year's slurry on the farm.

Becky's adventure 'Down Under'

With International Dairy Week finished, Becky had a fantastic show, picking up plenty of rosettes with heifers, making new friends and also meeting lots of our friends from around the world who attended the show.

Big shows always lead to sleep deprivation, so she'll need plenty of early nights. She still has a few weeks left in Australia. We will be looking forward to having her home, but it will only be a short visit as flights are already booked for the UK, so she can start preparing for Borderway UK Dairy Expo.

It is a fantastic show with top-class judges from around the world, a welcoming show where the staff are very helpful, help in Carlisle at Borderway Mart run by Harrison and Hetherington.

I also noticed this week that Becky wont be the only Cork person in Carlisle. Harrison and Hetherington announced a pioneering collaboration with Cork-based Denis Barrett Auctions, a collaboration that will revolutionize the scale and reach of pedigree livestock sales throughout Europe.

The agreement has the potential to offer buyers and sellers a dramatically improved experience.

Denis is no stranger to dairy livestock showing, having been very successful in the YMA ranks - combined with growing up on a top-class dairy farm has given him the knowledge to spot what stock will perform in the show ring and in the milking parlour, and he is an auctioneer respected all over the world.

We purchased Panda Global Magic through Harrison and Hetherington, and we have also purchased some fantastic show heifers through Denis Barrett, all of whom have delivered red rosettes.

Personally, I think the collaboration is a massive step forward. It is great to have someone local we can contact if we wish to buy or sell a heifer at one of the elite dairy sales.

Ill probably have to give the bar at the UK Dairy Expo a skip in case Denis and Glyn Lucas try persuading me over a few hot whiskeys to purchase another heifer, but at least I know it will be a show winner if they do capitalize with the sales pitch.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Moscow-installed officials said Ukrainian shelling killed at least 25 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 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.

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.
I was on the fence about doing more days in the office, admits 26-year-old Nicole Kelly, who works in tech sales for an American multinational company in Galway.

But in the last three weeks, Ive started to see benefits. We had a really strong office culture pre-covid. There are employees from all over the world in my company, so a lot of them use the office as more than just a workplace, its a community where they can meet people and settle in.

Nicole started working for the company during the pandemic and was fully remote for the first eight months.

Im a really social person, she explains. After a while, I found working eight hours a day from the house got a bit monotonous. You can get sick of the generic Zoom background and only interacting on Teams very quickly. Theres a lot to be said for those connections you make at the coffee machine in the office, or going for lunch with your colleagues.

One of the other big things is the separation of your own space. Work can easily bleed into your personal life when its based at your domain. For those renting with others who are also in the same boat, like I am, it can be difficult to set out designated areas to suit everyone. Some are often juggling working from home with others.

I remember at one stage, I was at home living with my parents during the pandemic and my dad was also working from home and my brother was studying from home. We were lucky that we had room to create separate spaces, but it was hard.

At the end of the day, working from home isnt always the dream its made out to be.

Theres no doubt that the idea that we could work and live from our homes during covid was an eye-opener. Suddenly we could put on a wash on our lunch break, take the dog for a walk between meetings, or be at home when the kids got in from school, even if we were up against it. Companies also adapted and invested in technology to accommodate this new way of life. It was a level of flexibility never seen before, and for many, especially parents, the flexibility remote work offered lent itself to family life.

The savings on my childcare was just crazy, admits Tracey Cunningham, an accountant and mum of two primary school children who pre-pandemic had been commuting into Dublin city each day. Even just those extra hours I can be with them instead of trekking into town is huge.

Now her company has requested staff come into the office three days a week instead of the previous two.

For them, its just one more day, but for me, its left me questioning if I shouldnt just stop working, or go work for myself because its difficult to find a minder for that extra day a week. Tracey admits.

Plus, I was really enjoying the balance it brought to our family. I could be here upstairs if the kids had any questions about homework or if they wanted to share something about their way in a way that Im not on office days. Its hard to articulate, but I think we all got used to reclaiming our lives from the rat-race-run wed been doing to ourselves for so long.

But fully remote, freelance copywriter Ann Casey missed the social element of work so much that she signed up to a communal workspace two days a week.

A lot of my job is extremely collaborative, and I prefer working that way, she tells us.

Being able to go into the office to organise meetings or just catch up about various projects, is really bond-building. You may not be best friends with all your colleagues, but at the end of the day, connections are connections. If you are working from the kitchen table all day long, its just pure work, but those micro-interactions you have with others in the office are often what make work enjoyable.

Plus, Ive also enjoyed the odd office romance over the years, which can often lead to something more serious. Theres nothing more motivating than that to get you up to take the train in the dark sometimes! she laughs.

Like it or not, we all knew the Great Callback was coming  the question of why is less straightforward. For companies, it revolves around productivity concerns, expensive office space going to waste, potential loss of company culture, loss of collaboration, and even some employee fatigue around isolation.

Gary Mullan from Prosperity.ie says 2024 is a RTO (Return To Work) year

Despite the fact that hybrid working doesnt suit every lifestyle, MD of Prosperity HR, Gary Mullan says the most important thing is that employers and staff are communicating.

2024 is a RTO (return to work) year, points out Mullan.

In Ireland, the Work-Life Balance Act was signed into law in April 2023. Its a first attempt at giving workers the right to request remote work. Employers have to respond to that request with a positive or negative answer, but thats the extent of it.

In other words, its not mandated that employers should give that option to all workers that ask for it. There are certain specifications that employees have to fulfil for them to be granted that right.

It will be interesting to see how companies react to the request for remote working conditions from employees going forward, Mullan says. But its unlikely that the law alone can move the needle of that momentous trend in Ireland. Employers should facilitate RTW in different ways, suggests Mullan.

Changing policies gradually, for example, so employees have more time to mentally adapt to the new reality. Employers should also offer good spaces, good equipment, tools, and flexibility with the in and out hours. This way employees with long commutes can reduce their rush hour anxiety by coming in earlier or later.

And if you just refuse point blank to go back into the office for more days?

If an employee refuses to return to work following a request to do so it could technically give rise to disciplinary action and/or a termination of employment in certain circumstances, depending on the contract, explains associate solicitor Amy Connolly of Cantillons solicitors.

But it would be important for both employer and employee to discuss the concerns and needs of both parties. This is a complex area, and rarely will there be a one size fits all solution, Connolly says.

It is a case of trying to strike the delicate balance of an employers business needs and requirements on one end, and an employees concerns and particular circumstances on the other.
Current and former army personnel are backing plans for a legal challenge to the establishment of the Defence Forces tribunal of inquiry.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin received Government agreement on the remit of the judge-led tribunal on Tuesday when Justice Ann Power was also announced as the judge.

However, members of the Canary Movement, now renamed the Defence Forces Justice Alliance (DFJA), say they are opposing the tribunal in its current form because they believe it is unconstitutional.

The tribunal, which was the main recommendation of last years Independent Review Group (IRG) panel report, is being established to see if the armys complaints system is fit for purpose.

Another is to investigate the response to complaints made regarding the use of hazardous chemicals in the air corps headquarters at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel.

However, the alliance, which represents around 400 survivors and victims of abuse and other mistreatment in the army, say it is pointless looking into a complaints system that has already been found to have failed.

The IRG report noted, when it came out last March, that around 70% of victims of abuses in the Defence Forces do not engage with the complaints systems because they do not trust them.

DFJA spokesperson Alan Nolan said: Our members took part in the IRG review because they genuinely believed issues they raised would form the basis of a proper tribunal into the whole abusive culture at the heart of the Defence Forces.

But what we got is a tribunal set up to look at something we have all known for years is a broken and not-fit-for-purpose complaints system.

What we havent got is a tribunal that will get to the core of the issues  the culture of abuse, victimisation, penalisation, bullying, and other issues.

He said the alliance plans to first appeal to President Michael D Higgins for help in his role as commander-in-chief of the Defence Forces.

It wants him to intervene and help to broaden the tribunals remit to, among other things, incidents of abuse, not just complaints about abuse.

It also wants Mr Martin removed from the establishment of the tribunal, something Mr Martin has previously stated is unsustainable.

Mr Martin is conflicted because he himself and his office and department will be investigated in the tribunal, Mr Nolan said.

His involvement is wholly out of kilter with the basic tenets of constitutional law and the spirit of natural justice and fair procedures.

We also dont believe victims and survivors have been properly engaged with."

They say if the President does not intervene, they will apply for a judicial review into the establishment and remit of the tribunal.
Banks will be required to provide additional ATMs in areas of low coverage under new legislation being brought to Cabinet this week.

Finance minister Michael McGrath is to bring forward an Access to Cash memo to ensure people have the ability to withdraw money and do not have to travel long distances to an ATM.

The Bill breaks the country into eight geographical areas and sets out regional criteria for the minimum numbers of ATMs per 100,000 people, as well as the proportion within 10km of a cash service point, be it through banks or post offices.

Responsibility for compliance will rest with the three main retail banks in the first instance, meaning Bank of Ireland, Allied Irish Bank, and Permanent TSB could be forced to install new ATMs if the level of coverage goes below the criteria.

At the moment 96.8% of the population in the west of the country is within 10km of an ATM machine, in the midlands it is 97.8% and in the South East it is 99.1%.

The current number of ATMs per 100,000 in the border region is 95 and in the Midlands it is 75.

The Bill also provides for the remedying of so called 'local deficiencies'. These are locations within a region where particular difficulties arise in accessing cash.

The Central Bank will assess such cases and, where warranted, may again require the three main banks to address the issue

Mr McGrath is conscious that there has been a significant drop in the number of retail banks operating in Ireland, with just three now remaining in the marker where previously there were 12.

Cash usage has also declined, with around 13.5bn withdrawn from ATMs in 2022 down from just under 20bn before the pandemic.

Despite these changes in the use of cash, Mr McGrath has stressed that it cash is still an important means of payment for many in particular older people and low income households.

Ahead of the new laws coming into force, the minister wrote to all government colleagues to ask that bodies under their aegis maintain existing payments.

It is my expectation, now, that all public bodies that currently accept or facilitate the acceptance of cash should continue to do so, Mr McGrath told ministerial colleagues last Autumn.

The legislation will ensure that access to cash is maintained initially at December 2022 levels, accounting for the exit of KBC and Ulster Bank by placing an obligation in this regard on retail banks.

The legislation will also require ATM operators and cash in transit companies to be authorised and supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin will be pushing for the introduction of EU-wide sanctions against violent Israeli settlers when he meets with his counterparts in Brussels on Monday.

As the death toll in Gaza climbs to 25,000, Mr Martin has warned that Israel must be "held to account" for its actions in the Palestinian strip since the Hamas attack on October 7.

However, it could be a number of months before the Government makes a decision on whether to join a South Africa genocide case it is taking against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Government sources have stressed that even after a judgment is made on the provisional measures, South Africa's substantive case will have to be legally scrutinised before a decision is made on whether to join the action.

Meanwhile, Mr Martin will take part in a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels and will also engage with foreign ministers from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, and Ukraine and secretary general of the League of Arab States.

He will raise the fact that sanctions have been imposed on Hamas and other militant groups that have targeted Israel and say it is now time that those mounting violent attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank are also the subject of sanctions.

The Tanaiste will be pushing for collective EU restrictions, including travel bans against those involved in forced resettlement and violence against Palestinians in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.

Palestinians surround a car that was hit by an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip, on Saturday. Picture: Hatem Ali/AP Photo

Ireland has already made legal submissions to the International Criminal Court about the occupation of parts of the West Bank, and allocated 3m in additional funding to the court to enable it to investigate allegations of war crimes.

Ahead of the meeting, the Tanaiste said: I will once again raise Irelands profound concern regarding the horrifying situation in Gaza.

"In our view, the priority remains advancing towards an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of hostages, urgent and effective humanitarian access, as well as the protection of civilians.

"The EU must speak clearly and decisively on this."

Israeli forces and Hamas fighters continue to clash in several areas across Gaza, from the Jabalia refugee camp in the north to Khan Younis in the south, which has been the focus of recent Israeli operations.

Israel said its troops had cleared much of northern Gaza of Hamas's military network and more than 1m residents of that part of the enclave have moved south to flee the bombardments.

However, fighting has continued around Gaza City.

Gaza's health ministry said 178 Palestinians were killed on Saturday, one of the deadliest days of the war so far.
A childcare worker who risked her life to protect three children from being stabbed outside their school has been discharged from hospital.

Leanne Flynn suffered serious injuries when she used her body as a human shield during the incident.

Ms Flynn, who is in her 30s, was hospitalised following the incident outside Gaelscoil Cholaiste Mhuire on Parnell Square off OConnell Street on November 23.

She was rushed to intensive care in the Mater Hospital and has slowly improved over the last number of months.

A GoFundMe page has raised more than 5,000 for the creche worker.

The page said: Leanne put her life on the line for those children on Parnell Square. She is a mother of one of the Belvo (Belvedere Football Club) boys and partner to one of our coaches.

We want to start a fund dedicated to her, to help support her recovery, both physical and psychological, and also to support her two young kids and partner, our coach and friend.

In December, a man was charged with the attempted murder of three children and assault of a care worker.

Riad Bouchaker, of no fixed abode, was also charged for the production of a 36cm kitchen knife.

He remains in custody and is to stand trial before a judge and jury.

The attack happened hours before a riot broke out in the city centre of the capital, in an incident that has put pressure on the Government and Garda Commissioner about safety and policing in Ireland.
A protest has been mounted outside an historic former religious property in Cork city following confirmation that it is being considered as a possible accommodation centre for people fleeing the war in Ukraine.

The confirmation from the Department of Integration that it is examining the former Dominican Fathers Ennismore retreat centre in Mayfield comes just days after several Cork city councillors denied rumours swirling on social media that the building was to be used to house either international protection applicants or Ukrainian refugees.

Based on briefings from city officials and the owners of the building, Labour Cllr John Maher and Fine Gael Cllr Joe Kavanagh were among the public representatives who publicly denied the rumours about unvetted males being housed at the property.

There are currently no plans in place to accommodate anyone at all in the old Dominicans building in Ennismore. Rumours currently circulating are 100% false, Mr Kavanagh said.

Mr Maher said he had spoken to council officials who had made contact with the owners of the building, and he said: the false news is incorrect and unhelpful.

Hundreds turned up for a protest outside the former St Dominic's Centre in Mayfield, after rumours about it being repurposed for emergency accommodation were circulated earlier today. Picture by Chani Anderson

However, in a statement to the Irish Examiner on Monday, the department said it is responding to an offer of accommodation in respect of this property, and that the city council had been consulted on the issue.

Discussions with the provider are at an advanced stage, and a full assessment of the property is currently taking place, it said.

Cork City Council has been consulted on the suitability of this accommodation.

Should it be deemed suitable for accommodation for those fleeing the war in Ukraine, the (departments) community engagement team will provide detailed information in direct engagements with elected representatives in advance.

It is understood the offer was made to the department over eight months ago. It is not clear when the city council was first consulted.

The revelation prompted an almost immediate protest by a small group of people on a public green opposite the property, but the attendance grew quickly within two hours. At one point, there were at least 200 people at the protest.

It was streamed online by anti-migrant agitator Derek Blighe, who is also protesting outside Abbeyville House in Fermoy, another property being considered by the department, and it was addressed by a number of speakers, including Anita Ward and Ross Lahive, who have been involved in several anti-asylum seeker and library protests.

They denied the protest was racially or politically motivated and said Ireland's homeless should be housed first.

It prompted calls from Sinn Fein TD Thomas Gould for immediate clarity on the situation.

We have government councillors saying one thing very strongly and a government minister saying another, he said.

The community need to know what the answer is here. We need urgent clarity and I am calling on the Minister, Roderic OGorman, to come to Cork to meet with the council, with councillors and most importantly with the community and give people the answers they deserve.

This situation is a shocking indictment of the governments complete failure to manage the constraints in accommodation for those seeking protection.

They are causing confusion and anger in local communities by failing to give clear, correct information when asked.

The local community are strong and has always been welcoming. Sowing division and creating mistrust does nothing for the community and does nothing for the vulnerable people who may be moving into Ennismore.

The blame for any anger lies at the feet of the government who have once again shown that they do not have communities, or those seeking protection in this state, at the heart of their approach.
A Tipperary man who went all the way to the Supreme Court over his exclusion from the widowers contributory pension because he never married his late long-term partner has won his case.

The Supreme Court ruled that John OMeara from Nenagh, Co Tipperary, is entitled to the pension and it unanimously granted an order quashing the 2021 decision to deny him the pension.

The court found that s. 124 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act, 2005 is invalid having regard to the provisions of Article 40.1 of the Constitution.

The court concluded, unanimously, that the provisions of s. 124 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 as amended by s. 17(4) of the Social Welfare and Pensions Act, 2010 are invalid having regard to the provisions of Article 40.1 of the Constitution insofar as it does not extend to Mr O'Meara as a parent of his three children who also brought the appeal.

Outside the Four Courts, Mr OMeara flanked by their three children, said he was delighted at the judgement.

"I am delighted it means a lot to me and to the family, It is amazing," he said. "It means a lot to a lot of families in Ireland that were left in the same position.

He said he took the case because he felt his family were being treated differently.

"I just thought something needed to be done. It was an injustice and it is great to see it has finally been sorted," he said.

He said he was also a small bit shocked but it has been amazing to win the Supreme Court appeal.

He said:

It means a lot as in her memory of my partner. It is respectful of our family, a family we had for the last 20 years. We are all equal as regards families.

Asked how he felt that he had to come to court on the matter he said: "These things have to be done. Things dont change easy, we have to put the work in. It has been great and amazing to win.

John OMeara and his three children, Aoife, Jack and Thomas had challenged a High Court decision upholding the refusal by the Minister for Social Protection to grant the pension following the death of Michelle Batey, who was Mr O'Meara's partner of about 20 years and the childrens mother.

The hearing of their appeal was before a seven-judge Supreme Court which ended in October last year.

Mr OMeara, an agricultural contractor, and Ms Batey eventually planned to marry, but she fell into a coma and died in January 2021 after contracting covid-19 when she was recovering from breast cancer, the court heard.

Mr OMearas senior counsel, Derek Shortall, had submitted that the High Court was wrong to conclude the Widowers (Contributory) Pension is designed only to provide for the needs of a surviving spouse.

The benefit, said Mr Shortall, has more than one purpose and is clearly meant to provide for children, as it increases per additional dependent child. Seemingly one of only two benefits requiring marriage, this social welfare payment appears to be an outlier in having the effect of excluding children, he added.

There is no difference between a marital and non-marital family in this context because Mr OMeara has essentially the same obligations to his children as a widower would have.

He said:

The blanket exclusion of this parent, these children, this family is essentially based on prejudice and stereotype.

Opposing the claims on behalf of the State, Attorney General Rossa Fanning began his submissions by acknowledging the very sad loss of Ms Batey, which has given rise to the constitutional challenge.

Ultimately, he said, the case before the court is a narrow one: Is the Oireachtas entitled, as a matter of policy choice, to provide a social welfare benefit to surviving spouses of a marriage that it does not provide to surviving cohabitees?

In the case of the widowers pension, he said, the sharp distinction is entirely consistent with the Constitution, particularly considering article 41.3, which commits the State to guard with special care the institution of Marriage, on which the Family is founded, and to protect it against attack.
Senior government ministers are to meet this week to discuss a new government strategy on migration.

Integration Minister Roderic OGorman will brief Cabinet colleagues at the Cabinet committee on Ukraine on Thursday about his plans to build, lease and acquire buildings to house international protection applicants.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee is expected to bring an outline of Ireland's migration system with updates on deportation to the meeting.

Sources have said Ms McEntee, along with Mr OGorman, plan to bring a joint memo to Cabinet in the coming weeks. Part of the strategy will include a fresh communication plan which will seek to outline Irelands fair immigration system.

Its expected it will seek to inform the public how inward migration is beneficial for Ireland in a socio-economic context given the demographic challenges that the country is increasingly facing with an ageing population.

Itll point to how migrants work in vital sectors such as housing, construction and healthcare. It will also outline how there is a duty on the State to ensure that those who arrive here are legally entitled to do so and such work is done by a rules-based system.

Its also understood the communication strategy will also mention how climate change will have an impact on migration.

Cork council chamber debate

It comes as the Mayor of County Cork was forced to intervene in a debate in which a Fianna Fail councillor referenced the huge unfair burden of the unknown placed on communities taking in International Protection Applicants.

The first part of the motion by Cllr Deirdre OBrien called on the Government to outline its policy of sourcing accommodation for International Protection Applicants including the type of accommodation and also for better communication to communities where they're to be located.

However, there was division in relation to the second part of her motion which referenced that discontentment, division is rising in many of our communities and rural areas as there is feeling of huge unfair burden of the unknown placed on them without adequate resources, services and communications.

Fellow Fianna Fail councillor William OLeary seconded her motion when he questioned how it's safe to have a proposed 56 IPAs move into a former nine-bedroom guest-house in Fermoy. He maintained people protesting in Fermoy and other proposed locations for IPAs couldnt be considered as far right as they're just outlining their concerns about the inability of certain areas to cope with inadequate back-up services.

However, Fianna Fail councillor Gearoid Murphy, who's a barrister, expressed concern about the burden word in the motion and pointed out in most cases just 50 or 100 refugees arrive into a community.

He said in his hometown of Mallow the councils own County Development Plan forecasts a population increase of 2,500 in a few years and the plan zoned land for the housing, but doesn't address the services required to support this.

Fine Gael councillor Gerard Murphy said Ireland has an obligation under EU and International agreements to take our fair share of IPAs. His party colleague Eileen Lynch, who is a solicitor, took the same view adding Ireland has exported huge numbers of migrants to other countries for many years.

Independent councillor Frank Roche stressed hes not racist as he has three foreign nationals living in his home, but understood the concerns of those protesting against the proposed location of IPAs in Fermoy, as allegedly those to be housed there aren't garda vetted.

'Chaotic and reactive'

Some of our services are overstretched. Theres only so many people we can take in, Independent councillor Danny Collins said. Social Democrats councillor Liam Quaide said the governments current approach "is chaotic and reactive.

We need a comprehensive, multi-department response to what's an emergency situation; one that will promote meaningful integration of people in our communities over time," he said.

Mayor and Fianna Fail councillor Frank OFlynn said there is enough division in the country over the issue and he didnt want to see it replicated in the council chamber. Eventually a compromise motion tabled by Independent councillor Marcia DAlton was agreed to be sent to government.

It read: "That this council calls on the government to outline its policy on the sourcing of accommodation for International Protection Applicants, i.e. type of accommodation considered and how the adequacy of the resources, services and communications to support the identified accommodation is assessed."
Micheal Martin has said he will be telling EU foreign affairs leaders there is no excuse for delays in getting humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The Tanaiste said Mondays Foreign Affairs Council summit in Brussels will be intensive, with about six hours set aside to discuss the Middle East, after which they will speak about the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The 27 European Union foreign ministers are also meeting their counterparts from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan as well as the secretary-general of the League of Arab States.

The foreign affairs and defence minister said he will be looking to see if the EU can put pressure on Israel to stop its actions in Gaza.

It comes after he said at the weekend that Ireland will be assessing the legal case by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

Mr Martin said Ireland will review the case being presented and decide whether to join once the preliminary stages  which call for interim measures such as a ceasefire  have concluded.

At the weekend local health authorities reported that 25,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the Israeli operation, launched after Hamass attack on October 7 in which 1,200 Israelis were killed.

Mr Martin is to state Irelands profound concern about the danger faced by people in Gaza and reiterate Irelands call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

Speaking on his way into the meeting, Mr Martin said: From Irelands perspective, we will be again putting a lot of pressure on and calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and also absolute, unimpeded access for humanitarian aid.

The reports we are receiving, even as late as last evening, are dire in respect of whats happening in Gaza, in terms of starvation, in terms of the humanitarian consequences of this war.

And there is no excuse now for any tardiness or for any delays in respect of getting vital aid into Gaza and well be making those points very strongly.

Mr Martin also called for the unconditional release of all hostages that are held by Hamas, equally unacceptable and intolerable.

He said that, while there is agreement on sanctions against Hamas at EU level, there is no agreement on sanctions against violent settlers in the West Bank, as one or two countries are still holding out.

On Ukraine, Mr Martin said: We have seen reprehensible attacks in Ukraine over the new year period, which has caused civilian death and significant damage to civilian infrastructure on a large scale.

These attacks show that Russia is intent on continued escalation.

While we were able to deliver some important messages in December, including the historic decision by the European Council to open accession negotiations with Ukraine, it is clear that much work remains to be done.

There are a number of important meetings in weeks ahead, including the Foreign Affairs Council today, and it is critical that we as the EU continue to send a clear and united message of support for Ukraine.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has described comments made by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu as unacceptable after he rejected the idea of a future Palestinian state.

At a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels on Monday, Mr Martin told leaders there is no excuse for delays in getting humanitarian aid into Gaza.

In a post on X on Saturday following talks with US president Joe Biden, Mr Netanyahu wrote: "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state."

Reacting to the Israeli prime ministers comments, Mr Martin said: "I would say to prime minister Netanyahu, he needs to listen to the vast majority of the world who want peace and who wants a two-state solution on the basis that a two-state solution is the ultimate security guarantee for Israel and for Israeli citizens, and for Palestinians in terms of a future prospect of living in harmonious coexistence.

"There is no other alternative on the table to a two-state solution that is sustainable, and that will make for a sustainable peace into the future," the Tanaiste added.

EU foreign ministers met in Brussels to discuss the conflict in the Middle East including a number of engagements with foreign ministers of Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the Palestinian Authority, as well as the Secretary General of the Arab League and the Israeli foreign minister. The Fianna Fail leader has also called for the EU to finalise sanctions against extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank who have been targeting Palestinian civilians and communities.

He said one or two EU member states were still holding out against sanctions and he would be urging them to drop their objections.

He said: "There is agreement in terms of sanctions against Hamas, which is correct, but equally there needs to be agreement on sanctions against West Bank violent settlers, and we're very clear on that."

Mr Martin said the reports coming from Gaza are dire in terms of the starvation and the humanitarian consequences of this war.

It comes after the Tanaiste said at the weekend that Ireland will be assessing the legal case by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. Mr Martin said Ireland will review the case being presented and decide whether to join once the preliminary stages, which call for interim measures such as a ceasefire, have concluded.

Mr Martin said leaders in the Arab countries are working on a template for a peace initiative from their perspective. He said he has had some contact with foreign ministers from those countries last week.

"We're very clear that Europe has to contribute and be supportive of all efforts towards getting peace here and getting a ceasefire," he said.

At the weekend local health authorities reported that 25,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the Israeli operation, launched after Hamass attack on October 7 in which 1,200 Israelis were killed.
Editor's note: This editorial has been updated to correct that Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposed 2024-25 budget deals with Medicaid, not Medicare.

Its a politically complicated budget that Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled this week. Some of her fellow Democrats dont much like it despite its support of traditional Democratic issues. The state Republican Party declared it soft on crime, while the Conservative Party slammed it as leading to insolvency. But a nonpartisan group, The Business Council of New York State, said it should be applauded on many levels.

All in all, it describes a good place to begin negotiations with legislators.

The thrust of the proposed $233 billion budget appears to be grounded in Hochuls determination not to raise income taxes. That has ramifications but in a high-tax state that continues to lose population  and, with it, congressional clout  it is surely a sensible posture.

We cant spend like theres no tomorrow, Hochul said on Tuesday, because tomorrow always comes.

Thats especially true given that, while the state is sitting on a $2.2 billion surplus, State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says it also faces outyear shortfalls totaling more than $20 billion through 2027-28. Thus, said the Democrat DiNapoli, it is important that actions are taken to improve the long-term stability of the states finances, while ensuring adequate funding for our most important needs ... Defining those needs will be what occupies legislators for most of the next two months or more. The budget is due by April 1, but it has been last for the past two years.

As always, there are other legitimate needs that will make for the backdrop of budget negotiations and they include programs in the states two big cost centers: health and education. With their iron grip on the levers of state government, it will be Democrats making the most noise, and not without cause. But Republicans have their own concerns.

For example, while Hochul touts an $825 million increase in school aid as producing the highest-ever investment in New York education, some legislators worry that a change in the distribution formula could hurt some districts. Among them are two Western New York Republicans, Assemblyman Joseph Giglio, of Gowanda and state Sen. George Borrello of Sunset Bay.

Medicaid funding also remains an issue. The health care program for the poor underpays hospitals by 30%, critics say, putting special strain on emergency rooms and leading to burnout of medical staff. Nursing homes also protest low reimbursement rates. Nevertheless, with costs rising, Hochul is looking for ways to reduce the states contribution.

There is also pressure for the state to change its taxing strategy on legal marijuana. By taxing growers based on potency, farmers will struggle to compete with the black market. Some change seems sensible.

Other aspects of the proposed spending plan include:

$4 million for Roswell Park to finance new mobile breast and prostate cancer screening vans and expanded cancer screening activities.

$2.4 billion to help deal with the waves migrants who have overwhelmed New York City.

$35.3 billion in education funding, including funds to expand universal prekindergarten programs across the state.

$40 million to a plan to crack down on retail theft, a problem mainly concentrated in New York City.

$15 million to develop housing designed for people with intellectual disabilities.

$12.4 million to serve people with serious mental illness who are either homeless or caught up in the justice system.

$45 million for youth mental health including school-based services and peer-to-peer counseling.

$347 million to prevent and reduce gun violence.

All of this can and must be accomplished without raising the income taxes on New Yorkers any further, Hochul said on Tuesday. So we need to slow down the out-migration that has resulted in the loss of $6 billion in tax receipts this year alone. We could have used that money.

Thats demonstrably true. The question is what it will cost to accomplish it.
Ian Bailey was entitled to the presumption of innocence on the day he was first arrested for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.

That was two months after Ms Du Plantiers body was found on December 23, 1996. Last Sunday, on the day he died, Bailey was still entitled to the presumption. At least he was in this country. In France he was convicted of murder in 2019 and has the standing of a murderer in French law.

The trial in Paris at which he was convicted was shocking in its process and outcome. For this observer, who was present for the duration of the trial, it had all the hallmarks of a confirmatory hearing into the guilt of the defendant.

Bailey did not deserve to have the tag of murderer attached to him on the basis of such a trial. So it might well be posited that through 27 years of inquiries and investigations, he emerged from the processes as a man who was legally innocent.

In France in 2019, Ian Bailey was convicted of the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Picture: Marc Piasecki

That doesnt infer as a fact that he didnt kill Ms Du Plantier. There is circumstantial evidence that he was capable of it. Neither does it rule out the possibility, albeit unlikely, of some evidence emerging in the future that would implicate him.

In terms of other suspects, none have been identified beyond supposition. But the evidence that Bailey was involved in a brutal killing simply never reached a threshold where he could be tried, not to mind convicted of the murder.

There was no shortage of people eager to pursue him. The manner in which the gardai investigated the murder came in for serious criticism. In February 1997, a Garda report to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) stated that it was of the utmost importance that Bailey be charged immediately with this murder as there is every possibility he will kill again. Such a sentiment emanating from investigating gardai polluted the whole process.

A subsequent analysis in the DPPs office noted that: Ian Bailey was believed by the public particularly in the local area to be responsible for the murder. The fear engendered was bound to create a climate in which witnesses became suggestible.

(The gardai subsequently disputed aspects of the DPP analysis.)

If Bailey had been charged, there would have been relief in Government Buildings as it would avoid hassle with the French. It would also satisfy a public  and media  mood in which Bailey was obviously guilty if we could just get past the technicalities. In such a milieu, it is commendable that the DPP ignored all pressure and on at least three occasions concluded Bailey had no case to answer.

The French were equally as enthusiastic in hunting him down. They began an investigation in 2012 and applied for his extradition. Refusing the application judge Adrian Hardiman mentioned the extent to which the crime in question had been investigated.

Mr Bailey has been very thoroughly investigated in Ireland in connection with the death of Madame du Plantier, the judge ruled.

There was certainly, as will be seen, no lack of enthusiasm to prosecute him if the facts suggested that there was evidence against him. He has been subjected to arrest and detention for the purpose of questioning

The fruits of the investigation have been considered not once, but several times by the DPP who has concluded and reiterated that there is no evidence to warrant a prosecution against him.

The refusal to extradite Bailey didnt deter the French. They continued the chase, which included travelling the West Cork and being assisted by An Garda Siochana. Charges were brought and Bailey put on trial in Paris in absentia.

The tenor of the evidence heard was, by the standards of Irish courts, appalling. At the end of it, Bailey was found guilty. The French then made an application  the third  for his extradition based on the conviction.

Ian Bailey with his Baileys seasonal pickles at the Farmers Market in Skibbereen, Co Cork. Picture: Dan Linehan

If Bailey had been sent to France he would be have been put on trial again. What if he had been found not guilty in that second trial? Would the French have been happy to wave him on his way back to Ireland? As it was to turn out the Irish courts refused once more to extradite him.

Baileys own actions heightened suspicion around him. He was not a sympathetic character. He pursued a libel action in 2003, in which a body of evidence, not least his own testimony and details of extreme violence against his partner Jules Thomas, all further pointed towards his character and capacity for murder.

He was constantly in the media, and with each appearance probably reinforced the view among many that he was guilty. Even when the evidence emerged of the major flaws with the initial investigation, a large body of public opinion continued to believe he did it. As a man who projected himself as grievously wronged, he was simply unable to get out of his own way.

Despite all that, Ian Bailey is not the most important or even  were he to be believed  the most wronged person in this story.

At the trial in Paris the only saving grace from the whole farrago was testimony given by Ms Du Plantiers son, Pierre-Louis Baudey-Vignaud. He told of how he and his mother were close as he was an only child and she divorced. I lived alone with her for a long time so I knew her well, he said. We had a shared understanding of suffering in the world. For instance, the Jews having to be hidden in France during the World War. She lives through me.

The account of his loss, the gaping hole in his life, was presented to the court soberly and all the more powerful for it. He was 15 when his mother was murdered. He has spent 27 years trying for find out who was responsible for taking her life and shattering his.

Sophie Toscan du Plantier's son, Pierre-Louis Baudey-Vignaud said he and his mother 'had a shared understanding of suffering in the world. For instance, the Jews having to be hidden in France during the World War.'

He and his family are entitled to answers, although the chances of receiving something conclusive are now remote. His unshakable belief that Bailey is guilty and has managed to beat the rap is understandable. But deeply held emotion or even firmly rooted suspicion cant be a substitute for a proper threshold of evidence in deciding whether somebody be put on trial for murder.

People will make up their own minds on whether or not they believe Bailey did it. Ultimately, however, the decision not to prosecute him was the correct one.
The steep rise in deaths on the roads is appalling and clearly needs a strong response. But why is the Government proposing to increase alcohol trading hours through Minister Helen McEntees Sale of Alcohol Bill?

Of driver fatalities in Ireland, 37% have a positive toxicology for alcohol. 71% of these fatalities occurred on rural roads. Findings from a 2020 systematic review concluded that there was an association between increased trading hours and drink driving. Recent in-depth analysis in Norway has demonstrated up to a 30% increase in collisions in rural areas in Norway for a one-hour extension.

Before these proposals go any further, a health impact assessment should be carried out to look at road safety and other areas of concern. Surely our policy makers need facts not just views from vested interests.

2023 has sadly seen carnage on our roads. 2024 must be the year that the Government ensures that its own actions do not add to this terrible burden on families across the State.

Sheila Gilheany, CEO, Alcohol Action Ireland, Coleraine Street, Dublin

Views of Church change over time I read with sadness Matt Cremins account of corporal punishment in Farranferris in the 1960s (Irish Examiner Letters, January 20, 2024). Sadly such experiences were common enough in Irish schools at the time and we can trace much of todays anti-clericalism and anti-Catholicism to these roots, especially among people of a certain vintage which they in turn passed on to their children. But how did Catholicism  at core still the loving redemptive message of Jesus Christ  take on such a rough form at times in 20th-century Ireland? Outrage at the Church was surely that it failed in so many ways to live up to Christs message? There are a number of reasons. 1920s Ireland was trying to emerge from the bitter divisions of the Civil War. The State shrewdly recognised the one uniting factor in the country was its faith, this surely lay at root of some of the special consideration given to the Catholic Church, the genuine piety of many elected officials notwithstanding. Once the shadow of the Civil War receded, we were not long in seeing our political class abandon Catholicism in their election manifestos and speeches. Yet, had the nation not shared a largely common religious outlook, these divisions might have taken far longer to heal and done greater harm. The Church brought us out of Civil War faster than otherwise might have been the case. If we compare with Spain post-1937 we see the iron fist of dictatorship was used to unite that country where not even Christianity was shared by all. Ireland did not go that route and its democracy has always been fairly robust. However, it also brought about a level of deference to the Church and clerics that was a serious obstacle to dealing with abuses, where respectability was valued over humanity. A deeper factor was the long history of poverty and emigration in this country. Eldest sons inherited the farm or family business, daughters married off or went into service. The options open to other siblings were limited. Entry into various vocations and religious orders was an attractive option, adding respectability to the family name and a career path for youngsters. Many of them went on to give sterling service to their fellow man (and woman) and the State, becoming teachers, nurses, missionaries, and charitable volunteers. Had it not been for their largely underpaid work Ireland would not be where it is today. Even many of the Churchs most vocal critics nowadays still benefitted from the education it provided on behalf of the State and hospitals run like clockwork, where cleanliness was next to Godliness. However, it also meant thousands of people pushed into vocations for which they had no real calling, deeply resentful, and probably eventually took their frustrations out on those unfortunate enough to be placed in their care. Corporal punishment was also fairly common at the time among families so those who entered religious orders brought this world view with them for better or worse. The brothers and nuns often simply mirrored their own learned experiences from home. Added to the resentment at being in a vocation they didnt want, it was a recipe for disaster. It is obvious that Ireland today is a different place. Only those with a truly Godly vocation will likely enter religious orders or seek ordination as its a career path attracting more suffering than old-fashioned respectability. But it also means our ordained will be much closer to the image of Jesus Christ in his mission on Earth. If physical violence and inhumanity is found today it will be on our streets and polling stations rather than in our seminaries and religious orders. It is my firm belief that those living at the close of the present century will have a very different memory and view of the Catholic education they received and the Catholic Church in general. I only wish I could live to see it myself. Nick Folley, Carrigaline, Co Cork

Threat to Taiwan

Once again we have a big power trying to bully a small neighbour, as shown by the ever-increasing threats, as well as the dangerous use of Chinese war planes and rockets close to Taiwan, attempting to intimidate the peaceful population of Taiwans 23m.

Beijing and its increasingly aggressive rhetoric in its campaign to add Taiwan to its communist rule needs to remember that China never ruled Taiwan, and so Taipei is well within its rights to maintain its long-established independent and democratic status, as long as its population wishes to maintain that status. Taiwan has been careful not to declare independence so as to avoid provocation.

Because Chinas autocratic president has recently sacked scores of army generals, he may not risk invading Taiwan currently. However, the worlds democratically elected populations need to watch this situation closely in the coming months.

JJ Ryan, Lisnagry, Co Limerick

Echoes of Cromwell Isnt there a certain parallel between Benjamin Netanyahu and Oliver Cromwell? As punishment for the Irish rebellion of 1641, Cromwell came to Ireland with his army going from town to town plundering and killing tens of thousands of people and banishing the survivors to Hell or to Connaught. He then confiscated their land and installed settlers from England and Scotland. As a punishment for rebellion, he introduced a series of penal laws against Catholics. The Israelis have been doing much the same in Palestine since the Israeli state was established in 1948. The Palestinian people are now left with less than 10% of their land and even that is under threat from new Israeli settlers. The genocide perpetrated by Cromwell and Netanyahu have much in common. Cromwell remains a deeply reviled figure in Ireland to this day. The legacy of Netanyahu is certain to be the same among the Palestinian diaspora. Jerry Cronin, Green Park, Mallow

Royals on sick leave

With three royals off work, will the world end or will it just be the gossip magazines looking for new faces? Britains King Charles and the Princess of Wales are getting some medical work done and Prince William is on carers leave. I assume they all had to fill in the same boring paperwork we all have to and provide a doctors certificate or have their pay docked.

The kings prostate troubles are common for men of a certain age.

It is important that he is having treatment and drawing attention to the need for check-ups  a matter I am familiar with after having successful treatment for prostate cancer.

Hopefully, they will all be well soon as they wont want to bring the spare back into action.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia

We must do more to prevent arson Rawlton House, Ridge Hall, Holiday Inn Express, refugee tents Sandwith Street, Caiseal Mara Hotel, Ludden, Great Southern Hotel, Kill Equestrian Centre, Gaelscoil Ui Riordain, Ross Lake House, Shannon Key West Hotel, Lanesboro Convent. The ever-growing list of buildings associated with persons seeking international protection subject to arson or attempted arson attacks. In many cases, it was known locally that these buildings were about to be used as refugee centres. Some were even the subject of protest prior to the attacks. Am I the only one in the country disappointed with the apparent lack of operational planning displayed by An Garda Siochana to prevent or catch in the act these attacks which have been ongoing now for a number of years, before someone is killed or seriously injured? The Taoiseach stated he has been informed that arrests are imminent which is welcome. Now lets see some creative thinking around crime prevention and reduction to best fulfil the Garda mission statement of keeping people safe. Michael Callan, Louth Village, Dundalk
January is a month where every euro counts, as people continue to count the cost of Christmas.

The fact is, many people are missing out on a potential 1,880 windfall that's waiting to be claimed.

Research shows that a significant percentage of people overpay tax without realising it, and are out of pocket up to 1,880 that could otherwise be rightly claimed from Revenue.

Irish taxpayers are historically slow in claiming what's owed from overpaid taxes  as evidenced by up to 300m left unclaimed annually.

"This is a new tax year so you can now claim your 2023 refund, which is especially important at this time of the year when money can be an issue," explains Marian Ryan, Consumer Tax Manager at Taxback. "January is a good time for a financial boost and getting money owed into taxpayers bank accounts where it belongs."

Beat the January blues and put some extra cash in your pocket for 2024 by claiming your overpaid tax.

For 28 years, Taxback have specialised in supporting workers in Ireland to claim their maximum Irish tax refund.

You can quickly check exactly how much tax you're owed by registering with Taxback here.

If you rent or pay a mortgage, work from home, have medical bills, college fees or flat rate expenses, then it is definitely worth investigating what you can claim back. "Tax credits might seem to be not worth claiming - but when you add them together, they quickly add up to build a very sizable refund amount."

So what can you claim?

There are a wide range of tax reliefs available to Irish workers. Exactly what you can claim will depend on your personal circumstances. The Taxback team illustrates a number of the most common types of tax relief.

Resolution #1: Mortgage Interest Relief

For property owners, Budget 2024 announced Mortgage Interest Relief worth up to 1250 - which kicks into action this January. "Homeowners can claim up to 20% on the increased mortgage interest paid in 2023 versus 2022" explains Marian Ryan. "Clients can often be totally unaware of what can be claimed and the different areas where claims can be made - everything from medical costs, nursing home fees, and working from home expenses."

Resolution #2: Rent Tax Credit

This tax credit, which specifically targets renters, was originally introduced in Budget 2023. Increased by 250, this credit is now worth 750 per year for a single individual and 1,500 for a married couple.

More than 400,000 people across Ireland are eligible for the Rent Tax Credit are you one of them?

It is understood that nearly 400,000 people are eligible to apply for it, with the credit backdated to include rent paid in 2022. The latest Taxback survey revealed a widespread lack of awareness amongst the public around the tax break, with a sizeable 67% admitting they were unaware of it.

Resolution #3: Medical & Dental expenses

Tax relief is available at 20% on the cost of many different types of common medical expenses - such as visits to the GP, Consultant or physiotherapist. Other areas where refunds are due include prescriptions, ambulance calls, diagnostic procedures and maternity care. Tax back can also be claimed on certain non-routine dental expenses such as orthodontic and root canal treatments. Similarly, the substantial costs associated with long-term care in a nursing home can mean refunds of up to 40% for either an individual or a loved one.

If you are unsure whether a particular medical expense is eligible for tax relief, you can talk to Taxback's Irish tax experts at anytime 24/7! They will advise you on what can be claimed and help you to maximise your refund. Simply register here to get started.

Resolution #4: Taxback for married couples

Married couples, of which there are over 1.7 million in Ireland, may also have potential refunds due, depending largely on how much a working couple earns. In the year you get married, both you and your spouse will continue to be treated as single people for tax purposes. If you married in 2022, for example, you may now be due a refund if the tax you paid as two single people is greater than the tax payable if you were taxed as a married couple. Savings can also be made if both are working, but only one pays tax at the higher rate, or if one spouse has unused credits due to low income or cares for children in the home.

Resolution #5: Flat Rate Expenses

Flat Rate Expenses are available to thousands of Irish employees who work in a variety of different jobs, including bar staff, nurses, teachers and firefighters. These expenses are designed to cover common work-related costs such as tools, uniforms and stationery. How much you will be able to claim will depend on your personal circumstances.

Resolution #6: Working from home

If you work from home, as many do nowadays, it is likely that you are entitled to tax back on your utility bills. You can apply for a tax refund  also known as e-worker tax relief  on heating, electricity and broadband bills. E-working is defined as working for substantial amounts of time outside the normal place of work  so those working from home, either full or part-time, may be eligible for WFH tax relief.

Taxback  A 'no refund, no fee' service

Taxback simplifies the process of claiming your maximum tax rebate.

They will analyse your tax situation, ensure you are receiving every credit, relief, and expense you're due and manage the paperwork for you.

They will even transfer your refund straight to your bank account. Not bad!

And the best part? Taxback offer a 'no refund, no fee' service which means it can't hurt to check if you're due a refund!

To quickly find out how much tax back you're owed, simply register with Taxback here.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has vowed to keep supporting Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion  and to resolve differences between Warsaw and Kyiv over grain shipments and trucking.

Mr Tusk, who returned to power last month and is keen to show that a change in government will not alter Polands Ukraine policy, also met his Ukrainian counterpart, Denys Shmyhal.

Mr Tusk said on X, according to comments released by his office: There are some conflicts of interest, we know it well, and we will talk about them, but not only in the spirit of friendship, which is obvious, but with the attitude to solve these problems as soon as possible, not to maintain or multiply them.

For me, it is very important to build the feeling that Poland is the most reliable, most stable ally of Ukraine in this deadly clash with evil.

Mr Zelensky said Warsaw will provide a new defensive package (AP)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv will get a new defensive package from Poland.

He said on social media: Theres a new form of our interaction for increasing the scale of arms purchases  a Polish loan to Ukraine.

Mr Tusks visit came a day after Moscow-installed officials in eastern Ukraine reported that Ukrainian shelling killed 27 people on the outskirts of Russian-occupied Donetsk.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called it a monstrous terrorist act, and the Russia-backed local authorities declared a day of mourning.

The Ukrainian military, however, denied it had anything to do with the attack.

Mr Tusk recently returned to power in Poland (AP)

Ukraines allies have recently sought to reassure the country that they are committed to its long-term defence amid concerns that Western support could be sagging. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Frances new foreign minister also travelled to Kyiv in the new year.

Located on Natos eastern flank, Poland has been one of Ukraines strongest allies. Warsaw has provided weapons and humanitarian aid, and opened its borders to Ukrainian refugees since Moscow invaded on February 24 2022.

However, relations soured last year as economic competition from Ukrainian food producers and truckers angered Poles who said their livelihoods were under threat.

Polish farmers and truckers blocked border crossings, causing back-ups and threatening the flow of some aid to Ukraine.

The farmers had complained that imports of Ukrainian foods had caused prices to fall, hurting their incomes, while truckers said they were being undercut by their Ukrainian counterparts.

The issue surfaced during the war as Ukrainian ports were blocked and food producers turned to road routes through Europe to get their products to market.

At one point, Poland and some other European nations banned Ukrainian grain imports because of the trade dispute.

Polands farmers and trucks have ended the protests for now, but Mr Tusk is seeking ways of addressing their concerns.

He has said Warsaw wants to help Ukraine economically but not at the expense of Polish businesses. He has suggested that Kyiv needs to better regulate its trucking industry.

Mr Tusk is also scheduled to honour the countrys fighters and attend observances of Ukraines Day of Unity, which commemorates the merger in 1919 that brought together its eastern and western regions.

As part of the celebration, Mr Zelenskyy signed a decree that, among other things, instructs the government to preserve the national identity of Ukrainians living in border regions that are now part of Russia, such as Belgorod, Kursk and Briansk. Some of those areas have recently been targeted by Kyivs forces.

The decree also aims to establish a centre for investigating crimes against Ukrainians on those territories, including forced Russification, political persecutions, and deportations.

In other developments, Ukraines air force said it intercepted all eight Shahed drones that Russia launched overnight over southern and central regions of Ukraine.

Debris from three drones shot down over the central Dnipropetrovsk region started a fire at an unidentified business, but no casualties were reported.

Elsewhere, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi visited Kharkiv on the third day of his tour of the country. The second-largest city was among the targets of a January 16 Russian missile attack that injured 17 civilians.

Later, Mr Grandi visited children at a school that has relocated to the citys subway system.

Meanwhile, major Ukrainian digital banking platform Monobank said it came under a massive denial-of-service attack by unidentified hackers. The attack was successfully repelled, the bank said, with no major consequences.
Donald Trumps civil defamation trial has been postponed after a juror fell ill.

The former US president was expected to tell a jury why he has for years spoken so disparagingly about E Jean Carroll, the writer who claims he sexually attacked her in the 1990s.

As he did twice last week, Mr Trump on Monday arrived at Manhattan federal court in his motorcade for the resumption of the penalty phase over his 2019 comments branding Ms Carroll a liar who faked the sex attack to sell a memoir.

But judge Lewis A Kaplan announced just before 10am that one of the nine jurors had been told to go home and take a coronavirus test after he reported feeling poorly.

Mr Trumps lawyer, Alina Habba, also reported that at least one of her parents has Covid and she has exhibited symptoms of a fever in the last two days after having dinner with them several days ago.

She tested negative for the virus on Monday, though.

Donald Trumps lawyer Alina Habba (Ted Shaffrey/AP)

In the courtroom on Monday, Mr Trump was not wearing a protective mask.

After Mr Kaplan announced the trial would be postponed for at least a day, Ms Habba asked if Mr Trumps evidence could be delayed until Wednesday because of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.

The judge did not immediately rule.

Because a different jury found last year that Mr Trump sexually abused Ms Carroll, Mr Kaplan has ruled that if the former president takes the stand now, he will not be allowed to say she concocted her allegation or that she was motivated by financial or political considerations.

Last week, the voluble ex-president and current Republican front-runner sat at the defence table while Ms Carroll gave evidence, complaining to his lawyers about a witch hunt and con job loudly enough that the judge threatened to throw Mr Trump out of the courtroom if he kept it up.

Mr Trump piped down and stayed in court, then held a press conference where he deplored the nasty judge.

Its a disgrace, frankly, whats happening, Mr Trump told reporters, repeating his claim that Ms Carrolls allegation was a made-up, fabricated story.

E Jean Carroll, Mr Trumps accuser (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/AP)

Besides tangling with Mr Kaplan, Mr Trump bucked the New York state judge in his recent civil business fraud trial involving claims that he inflated his wealth.

Mr Trump, who denies any wrongdoing, delivered a brief closing argument of sorts without committing to rules for summations and assailed the judge from the witness box.

He was also fined a total of 15,000 US dollars (11,790) for what the judge deemed violations of a gag order concerning comments about court staffers.

Mr Trumps lawyers are appealing the order.

In Ms Carrolls case, her lawyers have implored the judge to make Mr Trump swear, before any evidence, that he understands and accepts the courts restrictions on what he can say.

There are any number of reasons why Mr Trump might perceive a personal or political benefit from intentionally turning this trial into a circus, lawyer Roberta Kaplan wrote in a letter to the judge, who is no relation.

Mr Trump is contending with four criminal cases as well as the civil fraud case and Ms Carrolls lawsuit as the presidential primary season gets into gear.

He has been juggling court and campaign appearances, using both to argue that he is being persecuted by Democrats terrified of his possible election.

Mr Trump pointing to members of the audience during a campaign event in Rochester, New Hampshire, on Sunday (Charles Krupa/AP)

Mr Trump is expected to travel after Mondays court session to an evening campaign event in New Hampshire, which holds its Republican presidential primary on Tuesday.

His trips to court at times have also amplified media coverage of developments that he likes  such as an accounting professors evidence for Mr Trumps defence in the fraud trial  and his criticisms of developments that he does not.

He regularly addressed the news cameras waiting outside the fraud trial in a New York state court. Cameras are not allowed in the federal courthouse where the Carroll trial is taking place, so he at one point left and held a press conference at one of his New York buildings even as his accuser continued giving evidence against him.

Im here because Donald Trump assaulted me, and when I wrote about it, he said it never happened. He lied, and he shattered my reputation, Ms Carroll, a former longtime Elle magazine advice columnist, told jurors and Mr Trump while he was still in court.

Mr Trump does not have to attend or give evidence in the civil case.

He stayed away last year from the prior trial, where a different jury awarded Carroll five million dollars (3.9 million) after deciding Mr Trump sexually abused her in 1996 and made defamatory comments about her in 2022.

Mr Trump is appealing that verdict.

Mr Trump walking off stage after speaking at a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Saturday (Matt Rourke/AP)

For complex legal reasons, Ms Carrolls defamation claims were divided between two lawsuits  hence the second trial, where shes seeking more than 10 million dollars (7.9 million) in damages.

Mr Trump has said his lawyers advised him not to dignify the first trial by attending it. He is attending the second one, he has said, because of what he views as the judges animus.

Ms Habba told the court in a letter that he might take to the witness box because, even with the judges restrictions, he can still offer considerable testimony in his defence.

Among other things, he can give evidence about his state of mind when he made the statements that got him sued and about how his comments came as Ms Carroll was doing media interviews and journalists were asking him about her, Ms Habba wrote.

She also suggested he could show his lack of ill will or spite by talking about how he corrected his initial denial of having ever met Ms Carroll.

The revision happened after a reporter called Mr Trumps attention to a 1987 photograph of him, Ms Carroll and their then-spouses at a charity event.

Mr Trump responded that he was standing with my coat on in a line  give me a break.
Monday, Jan 22nd, 2024 (12:14 pm) - Score 4,720

BTs Chief Security and Networks Officer, Howard Watson, has written a new blog post that contrasts their delivery progress on the 1bn industry-led Shared Rural Network (SRN) project (i.e. extending 4G mobile coverage to 95% of the UK by the end of 2025) with the slower pace at Vodafone, Three UK and O2 (VMO2).

The somewhat gloating post is roughly timed to coincide with this weeks debate in Parliament (Westminster Hall at 4:30pm on 24th Jan) on the SRN and next months conclusion of a related programme review by the National Audit Office (NAO). Both of which will no doubt flag up the now expected delays to completion of the (phase one) coverage improvements for partial not-spot areas (i.e. areas which receive coverage from at least one operator, but not all), which needs to be achieved by June 2024 (at this point 4G must cover 88% of the UKs landmass).

NOTE: The SRN also aims to provide guaranteed coverage to an additional 280,000 UK premises, 16,000km of roads and boost in car coverage on around 45,000 km of road, as well as better indoor coverage for around 1.2 million premises. Individually, each operator will aim to reach 90% geographic coverage.

EE announced last week that theyd been able to complete the first phase of the programme six months ahead of schedule (here), which meant their geographic 4G mobile network overage in each individual nation now stands at: England (94%), Northern Ireland (89%), Scotland (77%), and Wales (86%).

Meanwhile, reports last year claimed that Three UK, O2 (VMO2) and Vodafone had reportedly warned the government that the first phase of their SRN deployment could be delayed by as much as 2 years (here). This is said to reflect the impact of both the COVID-19 pandemic and long-delays (up to 500 days) in being able to secure planning permission for the sites. But Watson gloats that such excuses didnt stop EE achieving their part of the project ahead of schedule.

Howard Watson said: Take Scotland. Despite Government funding to build 55 brand new sites, two networks have managed just under a third of sites between them, while the fourth has managed to add 4G to just a single site over the past three years. On the UK Governments flagship mobile policy  the Shared Rural Network  Ministers have reportedly received an unwelcome request from CTOs of those same companies asking for extra support in order not to miss their targets. One has already gone as far as to tell the Business and Trade Select Committee that they would miss the target. Of course, disruption can happen. Covid did impact on workforce personnel and supply chains, but they impacted networks equally. EE entered the SRN agreement clear-eyed, understanding the deployment environment and the difficulties we would undoubtedly face. We therefore designed our programme to mitigate risks and delays to our roll-out. During the programme, we also made difficult decisions to divert spend and resource from other network programmes to overcome issues in a timely manner, given the importance of meeting the deadline to our customers and due to the clear financial penalties for non-delivery. In other words, delivering legally binding commitments like these to Government takes a concerted effort and strategic sacrifices; there is always a choice for how, what and where a business chooses to invest. And given the involvement of taxpayer money to fund coverage, its hard to blame the wider investment environment for missing this licence commitment.

In fairness, EE went into the SRN with the strongest geographic 4G coverage of any UK mobile operator after having initially invested more than their rivals into improving rural coverage, and as such its not a huge surprise to see them become the first to complete the first phase of the SRN. Weve also seen a fair amount of activity from Vodafone and O2, although theyve still clearly got some catching up to do and Three UK is in a similar boat (approval of Vodafones planned merger with Three UK may change that).

Ofcom are also expected to publish their own review of the SRNs progress this year, which should provide a lot more information on how far behind the three operators really are and what they must do to correct that. Going forward, the operators also face a deadline for improvements in total not-spot areas by early 2027, although so far, theyre all claiming to be on-target for that.
chimney cake on checked napkin - Yuelan/Getty Images

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.

Story continues

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.
01/22/2024



University and CDP officials signed an agreement on Jan. 19 to continue partnering through 2032. Pictured, from left: Leigha Cauthen, JSU Chief External Affairs Officer; Dr. Christie Shelton, JSU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Tanveer Islam, head of the JSU Department of Emergency Management and Public Administration; Tony Russell, Superintendent of the Center for Domestic Preparedness; and Dr. Maureen Newton, Dean of the JSU College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Photo by Alyssa Cash.

by Buffy Lockette

Jax State has renewed its partnership with the FEMA Center for Domestic Preparedness, signing an agreement to collaborate on research, internships and academic credits through 2032

University and CDP leaders met on Jan. 19 to discuss ways to continue to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions, with CDP Superintendent Tony Russell and JSU Provost Christie Shelton signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

Through this agreement, JSU will offer free college credit to CDP students in certain courses taken at the CDP  which can be applied as an elective course towards a bachelor's or masters degree in the universitys emergency management programs. In addition, JSU students will continue to be offered opportunities to conduct research using CDP facilities and training data, as well as participate in internships that meet their college and career goals.

"We are going to collaborate together to ensure that our students have maximum opportunity to participate with CDP activities  taking courses, receiving academic credit and participating in research and internship opportunities," said Dr. Shelton, stating that approximately 560 students have received academic credit to date from training received at the CDP.

"This is an important partnership, as it brings together the academic with the practitioner," Russell said. "You have to have both of those to shape the future of preparedness, response and recovery  and to really impact the national goal of a secure nation."

The Jax State Department of Emergency Management and Public Administration offers top-ranked online bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs to students worldwide. It is home to the only Doctor of Science in Emergency Management program Alabama, and one of the few in the nation. The department is located at JSU McClellan, near the Center for Domestic Preparedness, which provides all-hazards training to more than 50,000 emergency responders each year.

JSU offers a First Responder Scholarship Program to eligible full-time employees of law enforcement agencies, fire departments and other emergency services.
Glassboro, NJ (Special to Informed Comment; Feature)  As a scholar of war, migration, and refugee resettlementbut more importantly as a human beingI have watched the death and mass displacement caused by the Israeli assault on Gaza with mounting horror. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has killed more than 25,000 people and injured another 61,000, the majority civilians. Nearly two million people in Gaza, eighty-five percent of the population, have been driven from their homes by Israeli bombing.

The current crisis in Gaza is part of a long history of expulsion and displacement of Palestinians. Since the 1880s, Zionist Jewish settlers, pre-state militias, and later the Israeli military have engaged in the project of maximizing land under their control while minimizing the number of Palestinians in that territory. Dispossession of millions of Palestinians is foundational to the creation of the State of Israel and its continued expansion into more Palestinian territory.

Individual Stories Trace Larger Phenomena

As part of my ongoing research with immigrants from the Middle East and North Africa, in 2021 I interviewed a woman pseudonymously called Mariam from Gaza. At the time of our conversation, she was seeking asylum in Canada. Her personal history is one of millions that speaks to the ongoing processes of violent displacement that have shaped Palestinian life for more than 100 years. Mariam told me:

I lived my whole life as a refugee.  Ive always had this feeling of displacement, that anywhere I lived was temporary, even as a child.  I went to a [United Nations Refugee Works Administration] school, which was for refugees. And I learned about the story of how my grandparents lost their homes and how despite living in Gaza, and my parents building their lives there, I didnt feel like thats where I belonged.  And right now, I view myself as a refugee because theres a true urgency. And a real sense of not being safe if I went back home.

Mariam is a third-generation refugee. Her mother and father were born in Gaza after their parents were forced to flee their homes during the 1948 Nakba. Mariams grandparents were among the 750,000 Palestinians ethnically cleansed by pre-state Zionist militias from what became Israel. Those refugees homes were expropriated, many of their towns and villages were destroyed, and they were denied the right to ever return. In the war, Israel took control of 78% of historic Palestine and the remaining 22% came under control of Egypt (Gaza) and Jordan (the West Bank and East Jerusalem).

Decades-Long Israeli Military Occupation

After the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel captured Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. This marks the beginning of an ongoing 56-year illegal military occupation. During the war, Israel expelled 300,000 more Palestinians from the captured territory. Many of those fleeing Israeli bombing since October 7 have been displaced multiple times over. Seventy percent of Gazas population are refugees and their descendants who were forced to flee their homes in 1948 and 1967.

In the decades since the occupation began, Palestinians in the occupied territories have faced forced removal from their homes; constant attacks on their property and livelihoods; expropriation and creeping annexation of their land by the Israeli government; and attempts to erase all vestiges of Palestinian history, culture, and society from the physical landscape.

Aljazeera English Video: Death toll in Gaza surpasses 25,000 as Israel steps up attacks

In the West Bank and East Jerusalem, there are now hundreds of thousands of extremist settlers, supported by the Israeli military, engaged in the continued project of violent dispossession and annexation. Settler violence has intensified since October 7. Israel withdrew its settlers from Gaza in 2005; however, it maintains an illegal air, sea and land blockade.

Unprecedented Crisis in Gaza

Now in her early 30s, Mariam lived much of her life in Gaza under siege. She told me that she had lived under constant Israeli surveillance. She also had a persistent fear of being caught in one of the repeated Israeli bombing campaigns that have killed thousands of Palestinians in Gaza since 2008. The scale and scope of the current Israeli onslaught are far greater than any previous assault.

Not only have the majority of Gazans been forced from their homes, but Israeli bombardment has destroyed 70% of the houses in Gaza as well as hundreds of medical facilities, schools, universities, government buildings, and religious sites. This means that the majority of Palestinians in Gaza have no homes to go back to and the basic infrastructure of civil society has been decimated. Academic and legal experts and the South African governments petition to the International Court of Justice have persuasively argued that Israel is committing genocide.

Open Calls for Ethnic Cleansing

Calls for the permanent expulsion of most or all of the Palestinians in Gaza have become common since October 7. On January 17, 2024, for example, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir repeated his position that Israel must occupy Gaza and give encouragement to Palestinians to leave. The long-serving Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes Palestinian self-determination and has long advocated ethnic cleansing. In 1989, for example, Netanyahu stated: Israel should have exploited the repression of the demonstrations in China [Tiananmen Square], when world attention focused on that country, to carry out mass expulsions among the Arabs of the territories. These are far from fringe opinions. When polled in 2016, 48% of Jewish Israelis agreed with the statement Arabs should be expelled or transferred from Israel. Throughout the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Israel is actively carrying out that program.

Immediate Ceasefire, Long-Term Justice

I close by returning to Mariam. She told me: Home for me is where I feel safe.  [I]f I could go home [to Gaza] and feel safe, that would be my home.  If I could feel like I could build a life and be secure and safe, that would be my home, but I havent felt that anywhere. So, I guess, Im yet to know where home is. Mariam already could not find safety in Gaza in 2021. The situation in 2024 is exponentially worse. Because of the catastrophic situation in Gaza, Israel must be pushed for an immediate ceasefire. Gazans desperately need the bombing to stop, access to medical care, food, water, and shelter. After that, it is critical to hold all perpetrators of genocide, ethnic cleansing, and other crimes against humanity accountable.

As I noted at the outset, displacement is at the core of the injustices inflicted on Palestinians. The only way to guarantee safety, security, peace, and justice for Mariam, her family and millions of other Palestinians is to finally address the harms of expulsion and dispossession at the foundation of the State of Israel. It is up to those who have been harmed to determine the most appropriate way to do this. It may include reparation, reconciliation, and finally upholding the well-established right of return that has been denied to millions of Palestinians for decades.
By Michael Scollon | 

( RFE/RL )  More than 6,000 kilometers from Tehran, in treacherous waters off the shores of Singapore, a dark fleet of oil tankers waits to offload the precious cargo that helps keep Irans economy afloat  a dependency that could also sink it.

The fleet has grown steadily over the past five years, delivering Iranian crude to China as the countries work in concert to circumvent international sanctions that target Tehrans lucrative oil exports. But while the clandestine trade has buoyed Irans budget, it also comes at tremendous cost and risk to Tehran.

Iran gives China a hefty discount to take its banned oil, taking 12 to 15 percent off the price of each barrel to make it worthwhile for Beijing to take on the liability of skirting sanctions, according to research by the data analysis unit of RFE/RLs Radio Farda.

Additional costs add up as well: ship-to-ship operations to offload the oil, middlemen, hidden-money transfers, and rebranding the oil to mask its Iranian origin and make it appear to come from a third country, said Dalga Khatinoglu, an expert on Iranian energy issues.

Altogether, said Khatinoglu, who contributes to Radio Fardas data analysis unit, Irans budget figures and official statements indicate that 30 percent of the countrys potential oil revenue was wasted last year.

And with the draft budget for the next fiscal year currently being debated by the Iranian parliament, there are no guarantees that Tehrans bet on quenching Chinas thirst for oil will continue to be a panacea.

With Iran almost entirely dependent on Beijing to take its oil and on other entities to facilitate the trade, Tehran has managed to inject desperately needed revenue into its economy. But Iran has also put itself at risk of seeing its main revenue stream dry up.

Theres definitely an extent to which Tehran has become more dependent on the likes of China or those who would be willing to deal with Iran in spite of Western sanctions, said Spencer Vuksic, a director of the consultancy firm Castellum, which closely tracks international sanctions regimes.

Vuksic said Iran is definitely put in a weak position by having to depend on a single external partner whos willing to deal with and engage with Tehran.

Oily Deficit

Iran has trumpeted its foreign trade, claiming in December that oil revenue had contributed to a positive trade balance for the first eight months of the year.

But the oil and gas sector, by far the largest part of the Iranian economy, will not be enough to save the current budget of around $45 billion that was approved last year.

The Iranian fiscal year, which follows the Persian calendar and will end in March, is expected to result in a major deficit. In presenting the draft budget to parliament in December, President Ebrahim Raisi acknowledged a $10 billion deficit.

But the shortfall could be much higher  up to $13.5 billion, the largest in Irans history  by the end of the fiscal year, according to Radio Farda. This is because data shows that just half of the expected oil revenues were realized, in part due to lower than expected oil prices and additional costs and discounts related to Tehrans oil trade with China.

Whereas the budget expectations were based on oil being sold at $85 per barrel, the price of crude dipped below $75 per barrel in December and has fluctuated wildly recently amid concerns that tensions in the Middle East could disrupt shipping and production.



Iran Dark Tanker, Digital, Dream / Illustrator 3.0.

And while Iran expected to export 1.5 million barrels of oil per day (bpd) in 2023, it exported only 1.2 million bpd in the first eight months of last year, according to Radio Farda.

Altogether, Radio Farda estimates that Iran lost some $15 million per day in potential revenue through its trade with China, which accounts for more than 40 percent of the Iranian budget.

For the upcoming budget of about $49 billion, expectations for domestic and foreign oil revenue have dipped by 3 percent, according to Khatinoglu, even as the projected budget itself has risen by about 18 percent.

Accounting for the fluctuation of global oil prices, which fell far short of the average estimated for the current year, the peg has been lowered to $71 per barrel. Tehran is also expecting lower oil-export volumes  which only briefly met forecasts of 1.5 million bpd, the highest levels seen since 2018  with only 1.35 million bpd forecast.

Iran is reportedly expected to plug the gap left by the lower oil revenue by increasing taxes on wealthy individuals and businesses, while Khatinoglu says Tehran will try to boost revenue by raising domestic energy prices.

Shipping Competition

Adding to the uncertainty of Irans finances is the potential for weaker Chinese demand for its oil and competition from Russia which, like Tehran, sends banned oil to Beijing.

And international sanctions are continuously evolving to punish countries and entities that foster Irans illegal oil trade, threatening to capsize the dark fleet that helps sustain Tehrans so-called resistance economy.

On the other hand, the mercurial nature of oil price fluctuations and demand could work to Irans advantage. With Venezuelan oil no longer under sanctions, Russia is left as the only competitor for clandestine oil sales to China.

And Irans capacity to export oil is greater than ever, allowing it to more easily sell its oil to Beijing when demand is high.

This is largely due to the considerable expansion of the global dark fleet of oil since crippling U.S. sanctions targeting Irans oil exports were restored after the United States unilaterally withdrew in 2018 from the Iran nuclear deal that has been agreed with six world powers.

The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), offered sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on Tehrans controversial nuclear program. After the deal went into effect in January 2016, Iran more than doubled its legal oil exports in a few months, eventually reaching a high of 1.54 million bpd in 2018.

But with the U.S. withdrawal from the deal and subsequent reintroduction of sanctions that year, Iranian oil exports plummeted. And after the exceptions granted to a handful of countries  including China  that were allowed to continue to import Iranian oil expired in 2019, Iranian oil exports slowed to a trickle.

This was partly because Iran was not equipped to export its oil and had no immediate customers willing to defy the sanctions. But that changed with the fine-tuning of Irans efforts to defy sanctions, the fivefold rise in the number of dark-fleet tankers, and Chinas willingness to take the risk of doing business with Tehran  although Beijing has not acknowledged unregistered imports of Iranian oil.

Today the dark fleet of often aging ships  nearly half of them VLCCs (very large crude carriers)  has risen to up to 1,000 vessels, according to Vortexa, which tracks international shipping. Many smaller ships are involved in Russian oil exports, which account for about 80 percent of all opaque tanker activity. But Iran had access to nearly 200 tankers, many of them supertankers, as of early 2023, according to Vortexa.

More than 20 ships, 13 of them VLCCs, joined the Iranian fleet in 2023, Vortexa reported in June, contributing to record-high Iranian oil exports under sanctions.

Vortexa attributed the rise to increased Chinese demand, the addition of the new tankers to shuttle Iranian oil after many had switched to shipping Russian oil, and the decline of Iranian inventories drawn down to boost exports amid heightened competition with Russia for the Chinese market.

While Chinese demand for Iranian oil slowed in October, Vortexa noted in a subsequent report, Washingtons removal of oil sanctions on Venezuela that month opened the possibility of higher demand for Iranian oil.

Uncertain Waters

In an October report, the global trade intelligence firm Kpler explained that tankers illegally shipping Iranian oil commonly go dark upon entering the Persian Gulf by turning off their transponders, technically known as the automatic identification system (AIS). After visiting Irans main oil terminal on Kharg Island or other ports, they then reemerge after a few days indicating they are carrying a full load.

From there, the ships offload the oil with ship-to-ship transfers that take place in unauthorized zones, mostly in the Singapore Straits. Eventually the oil, rebranded as coming from Malaysia or Middle Eastern countries, enters China, where it is processed by more than 40 independent teapot refiners that have little exposure to international sanctions or the global financial system.

Sanctions Revisited

The challenge for those trying to halt the illicit trade in Iranian oil as a way to hold Tehran accountable for its secretive nuclear activities and dire human rights record, is how to make the negatives of dealing with Iran greater than the financial benefits.

That has put the illicit seaborne trade of oil  both Iranian and Russian, owing to the ongoing war in Ukraine  under greater scrutiny by the international community.

Theres continuous refining of the sanctions programs to include and expand sanctions against those involved in evasion, and that includes sanctioning so-called dark fleets, said Castellums Vuksic, noting that the number of targeted sanctions against Iranian individuals and entities rose by more than 1,000 last year.

The big question is enforcement, an issue that is being debated in the United States and other countries and is leading to increased calls for countries like Panama to de-flag illegal tankers and for countries to clamp down on dark-fleet ships anchored off their shores.

My expectation is that governments, including the United States, will take action against these dark fleets, especially the facilitators and the [ship] owners when theyre identified, Vuksic told RFE/RL.

Other factors, including concerns about the impact of a broader Middle East conflict potentially involving Iran, could also hurt or help Irans financial standing.

As Kpler noted while reporting that Chinese imports of Iranian oil had dropped significantly in October, the changing global landscape can have a big effect on the independent Shandong-base refineries that purchase Iranian oil.

Middle East tensions/threat of stricter enforcement of U.S. sanctions may have turned Shandong refiners more risk-adverse, the global trade intelligence firm wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

In the past week, supply fears also exposed the volatility of global crude prices, potentially to Irans benefit.

Oil prices rose sharply on January 2 on news that Iran had sent a frigate to the Red Sea and was rejecting calls to end support for attacks by Tehran-backed Huthi rebels that have disrupted shipping in the important trade route.

Prices surged again following the deadly January 3 bombing attack in Iran, for which the Islamic State militant group has claimed responsibility.

But the week ended with questions about the future of Irans cut-rate deal with the only country willing to help prop up its economy, with Reuters reporting that Chinas oil trade with Iran had stalled after Tehran withheld supplies and demanded higher prices.
Highlights:

New drill hole DSC-112-W1 is a 125m step-out from Descendent discovery hole DSC-111;

DSC-112-W1 intersects multiple Cu-Zn-Au-Ag zones including 7.00m of 1.71% CuEq and 9.0m of 0.65% CuEq;

Grades intersected at Descendent are comparable to grades intersected at the top of the nearby Rainbow deposit;

Recent intersection confirms a previously identified large geophysical target that projects along strike to the northeast for 340m and at depth for 840m ; and

Plans underway for an exploration campaign to define the size and extent of the Descendent.

VANCOUVER, BC, Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - Callinex Mines Inc. (the "Company" or "Callinex") (TSXV: CNX) (OTCQX: CLLXF) is pleased to provide results from the recently completed drilling to expand the new high-grade copper, zinc, gold and silver Descendent discovery at the 100% owned Pine Bay Project located in the Flin Flon Mining District of Manitoba. (See news release dated September 12, 2023) (Pine Bay Project Plan View).

Max Porterfield, President and CEO, stated, "Today's results confirm yet another exciting discovery at our Pine Bay Project with potential to quickly build significant tonnage alongside our recently established resource base. The Descendent discovery has unique characteristics that make it an opportunity worth immediately seizing through additional drilling. This year's exploration campaign will be another exciting one where we will remain focused on growing Pine Bay into a tier one asset with numerous expanding high-grade discoveries."

Step-out drill hole DSC-112-W1 intersected the Descendent 110m vertically below and 50m to the south of discovery hole DSC-111 and returned 7.00m of 1.71% copper equivalent ("CuEq") (0.13% Cu, 0.51 g/t Au, 15.80 g/t Ag and 2.87% Zn) including 3.59m of 2.30% CuEq (0.08% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 14.31 g/t Ag and 4.68% Zn) and 9m of 0.65% CuEq (0.41% Cu, 0.20 g/t Au, 3.44 g/t Ag, 0.20% Zn) including 3m of 1.20% CuEq (0.90% Cu, 0.29 g/t Au, 5.19 g/t Ag and 0.15% Zn). The Descendent remains open to the north, and vertically below DSC-112-W1 (Descendent Discovery Long Section).

The intersection in DSC-112-W1 is the deepest result to date associated with the Descendent and is located 460 meters below PBM-024-W1 the most shallow hole to intersect the Descendent. PBM-024-W1, a 37m step-out vertically above parent hole PBM-024, intersected 4.00m of 1.37% CuEq (0.53% Zn, 0.92 g/t Au, 34.60 g/t Ag, and 1.64% Cu). Parent drill hole DSC-112 intersected the southern extent of the Descendent 50m south and 25m above the DSC-112-W1 intersections.

Jim Pickell, member of Callinex's technical team and recipient of the Bill Dennis Prospector of the year award for the discovery of the 777, Konuto and Photo mines, commented, "Although Callinex's Rainbow VMS Deposit and its newly discovered Descendent VMS mineralization share many similar geological and mineralogical features, what sets the Rainbow and Descendent apart is the much larger stratigraphic 'footwall' VMS feeder alteration system (possibly up to eight to ten times larger) associated with the Descendent versus the Rainbow deposit. This same Descendent-associated 'footwall' alteration package, with its spectacular 1100 by 700 metre surface footprint, has both inspired and eluded previous explorers who also believed that this extra-large alteration system was spatially associated with a correspondingly large to giant VMS deposit. It is also important to note that the elevated silver and zinc grades in the latest Descendent drilling appear to be quite similar to the near-surface, 'distal' (to feeder) lower grade portions of the Rainbow deposit that rapidly transition into thicker, higher grade, copper-dominated massive sulphides at depth, closer to its 'proximal' alteration (feeder) pipe."

The most significant section returned from drill hole DSC-111 is 7.14m grading 1.70% CuEq (3.34% Zn, 0.29 g/t Au, 14.38 g/t Ag and 0.11% Cu) with additional intersections including a 10.57m grading 1.36% CuEq (1.47% Zn, 0.58 g/t Au, 16.51g/t Ag and 0.26% Cu). The results announced today confirm and validate a large geophysical target associated with discovery hole DSC-111 that projects along strike to the northeast for 340m and at depth for 840m that was previously identified in a borehole pulse electromagnetic survey of the hole.

The grades intersected to date at the Descendent are comparable to grades intersected at the top of Rainbow. At Rainbow, the average drill hole composite grades are 1.55% CuEq (0.56% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 1.63% Zn and 9.27 g/t Ag) within the first 200m (-100m to -300m elevation) of the deposit, which also remains open below the 900m level. Descendent is interpreted to have the same vertical plunge and steeply dipping orientation as nearby Rainbow, Pine Bay and Alchemist deposits which are located 1.4km, 0.9km and 2.9km away respectively, and all within Callinex's mineral lease. The Company's exploration thesis is that, like at Rainbow, the grades will continue to improve and transition into high grade copper at depth with further drilling at Descendent.

JJ O'Donnell, Exploration Manager for Callinex and former Senior Mine Geologist at the 777 mine, stated, "Further testing of the Descendent horizon is warranted based on the geology, alteration patterns, and assays returned by the most recent drill holes. Further testing of the Descendent horizon has a great opportunity to increase the overall value of the Pine Bay Project, and I am excited for the upcoming 2024 drill program."

This Descendent is located within the Baker Patton Felsic Complex, one of the largest and most highly altered accumulations of felsic rocks within the Flin Flon Greenstone Belt. The new discovery is directly associated with a major alteration zone that's previously been identified at surface and spans 1,100m by 700m. Since the huge alteration zone seen at surface is structurally overturned, the exploration thesis is that the massive sulphides associated with this mineralizing event would be preserved at depth, which we are now intersecting with the Descendent discovery. Typically, there is a correlation between the size of an alteration zone and the size of the VMS deposit it is associated with.

The exploration model for large VMS deposits within the Flin Flon-Snow Lake Greenstone Belt, such as the Lalor and 777 deposits, includes having several smaller deposits in close proximity to a large alteration system within a major felsic volcanic center. Historic and recent exploration has identified seven VMS deposits, along with the new Descendent discovery, located in close proximity to the huge Baker Patton alteration zone.

Peter Jones, member of Callinex's team and former CEO of Hudbay Minerals, added, "The recent Pine Bay Project NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate was very encouraging, and I am excited about further extensions to known mineralization and new discoveries both along trend and in depth, at this underexplored part of the prolific Flin Flon Greenstone Belt."

Looking forward, the Company will continue to aggressively expand the resource base with a focus on step-out drilling at Descendent. Additionally, we will continue to advance our pipeline of discoveries at the Pine Bay Project (Rainbow, Alchemist and target area Odin) through additional geophysical surveying and potential drill testing.

Table 1: Pine Bay Drill Results

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Cu % Au g/t Ag g/t Zn % Sg CuEq % DSC-112 1513.00 1521.00 8.00 0.03 0.06 1.08 0.41 2.96 0.20 DSC-112 1553.00 1555.00 2.00 0.03 0.11 1.31 0.86 3.08 0.37 DSC-112 1565.00 1570.00 5.00 0.02 0.18 8.23 0.68 2.96 0.32 DSC-112-W1 1578.59 1585.59 7.00 0.13 0.51 15.80 2.87 3.34 1.71 Including 1582.00 1585.59 3.59 0.08 0.46 14.31 4.68 3.15 2.30 DSC-112-W1 1596.00 1605.00 9.00 0.41 0.20 3.44 0.20 3.39 0.65 Including 1600.00 1603.00 3.00 0.90 0.29 5.19 0.15 3.60 1.20 PBM-024W1 1018.00 1022.0 4.00 0.08 0.57 6.70 2.21 3.39 1.37 Including 1018.00 1021.16 3.16 0.10 0.67 7.81 2.64 3.51 1.63

Notes: 1.True width estimates are unknown and will be determined with more drilling. 2. DSC-112 and DSC-112W1 collar is located at the following Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates using the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) within UTM Zone 14N: 332936m East and 6071333m North and 314.0m above sea level, and started at 310Az, -87 degree dip. PBM-024W1 is located at the following Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates using the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) within UTM Zone 14N: 332804m East and 6071457m North and 319.0m above sea level, and started at 315Az, -80 degree dip. 3. The size of the drill core is NQ. 4. All CuEq (copper equivalent) assay results in this news release use the following pricing: US$3.00 copper per pound ($6,720/tonne), US$1.15 zinc per pound, US$1,450/troy ounce gold ($46.62/gram), US$16.50/toy ounce silver ($0.53/gram), calculation CuEQ= Cu%+(Zn% x zinc price per pound / copper price per pound)+(Au g/t x Au price per gram / copper price per tonne) x100 + (Ag g/t x Ag price per gram / copper price per tonne) x 100. 100% metal recoveries used, ie. no process recoveries or smelter payables were included in the calculation.

J.J. O'Donnell, P.Geo, a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release.

QA / QC Protocols

Individual samples were labeled, placed in plastic sample bags, and sealed. Groups of samples were then placed in security sealed bags and shipped directly to SGS lab in Vancouver, BC for analysis. Samples were weighed then crushed to 75% passing 2mm and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns in order to produce a 250g pulverized split. 35 elements including copper, zinc, lead and silver assays were determined by Aqua Regia digestion with a combination of ICP-MS and ICP-AES finish, with over limits rerun using an ore grade analysis (two acid digest ICP-AES). Gold was analyzed by fire assay. Specific gravity (sg) measured for each sample using the pycnometer and water and air method. QA/QC included the insertion and continual monitoring of numerous standards, blanks, and duplicates

About Callinex Mines Inc.

Callinex Mines Inc. (TSXV: CNX) (OTCQX: CLLXF) is advancing its portfolio of base and precious metals rich deposits located in established Canadian mining jurisdictions. The focus of the portfolio is highlighted by the rapidly expanding Rainbow deposit at its rich VMS Pine Bay Project located near existing infrastructure in the Flin Flon Mining District. Callinex prepared an indicated mineral resource on the Rainbow deposit of 3.44 Mt grading 3.59% CuEq for 272.4 Mlb CuEq (238.3 Mlb Cu, 56.9 Mlb Zn, 37.6 koz Au, 692.8 koz Ag, 2.3 Mlb Pb), an inferred mineral resource on the Rainbow deposit of 1.28 Mt grading 2.95% CuEq containing 83.4 Mlb CuEq (72.1 Mlb Cu, 19.5 Mlb Zn, 11.1 koz Au, 222.2 Koz Ag, 0.8 Mlb Pb) and an inferred mineral resource at the Pine Bay deposit of 1.0 Mt grading 2.62% Cu containing 58.1 Mlb Cu (see news release dated July 10, 2023). The second asset in the portfolio is the Nash Creek Project located in the VMS rich Bathurst Mining District of New Brunswick. A 2018 PEA generates a strong economic return with a pre-tax IRR of 34.1% (25.2% post-tax) and NPV8% of $230 million ($128 million post-tax) at $1.25 Zinc (see news release dated May 14, 2018). The third asset, 100% owned Point Leamington Deposit in Newfoundland, is located in one of the richest VMS and Gold Districts in Canada. Callinex prepared a pit constrained Indicated Mineral Resource of 5.0 Mt grading 2.5 g/t AuEq for 402 koz AuEq (145.7 koz gold, 60.0 Mlb copper, 153.5 Mlb zinc, 2.0 Moz silver, 1.5 Mlb lead), a pit constrained Inferred Mineral Resource of 13.7 Mt grading 2.24 g/t AuEq for 986.5 koz AuEq (354.8 koz gold, 110.2 Mlb copper, 527.3 Mlb zinc, 6.2 Moz silver, 7.0 Mlb lead) and an out-of-pit Inferred Mineral Resource of 1.7 Mt grading 3.06 g/t AuEq for 168.5 koz AuEq (65.4 koz gold, 13.3 Mlb copper, 102.9 Mlb zinc, 1.4 Moz Ag, 2.6 Mlb lead) (see news release dated October 25, 2021).

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to future expenditures. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include, among others, the ability to complete the proposed drill program, obtaining satisfactory results from its drill program and the timing and amount of expenditures. Except as required under applicable securities laws, Callinex does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding term sheet (the "Term Sheet") pursuant to which Steppe Gold, either directly or through a wholly-owned subsidiary, will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the "BG Common Shares") of Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold") in an all-share transaction (the "Proposed Transaction").

Transaction Highlights:

Boroo Gold is a leading gold producer with an average gold production of over 60,000 oz per annum and an expected mine life of beyond 2030.

Creation of a leading gold producer in Mongolia with a near-term production target of 200,000 oz per annum including the committed ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion.

Steppe Gold's production is expected to increase from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

Total gold production is expected to rise to approximately 160,000 oz per annum in 2026 as Steppe Gold's ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion comes on stream.

The Proposed Transaction is expected to add to the over 4,000,000 oz AuEq existing resource base of Steppe Gold.

Boroo parties have the first right to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru following the completion of the Proposed Transaction at fair market value.

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and CEO of Steppe Gold, stated: "The Boroo Gold acquisition will establish Steppe Gold as Mongolia's largest and leading gold producer. Our production is expected to triple over the next two years to 90,000 ounces and 160,000 ounces by 2026, increasing our financial strength to repay the non-dilutive US$150M project financing for the ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion and to advance our exploration portfolio. It also provides shareholders with improved optionality at our Tres Cruces gold project in Peru while maintaining our focus on growing our production profile in Mongolia."

Proposed Transaction Details

Pursuant to the Term Sheet, Steppe Gold will acquire all of the BG Common Shares in consideration of the issuance of that number of common shares of Steppe Gold that results in Boroo Pte Ltd. ("Boroo PL"), the beneficial shareholder of Boroo Gold, directly or indirectly holding a 58.8% interest in Steppe Gold (calculated on a fully-diluted basis) upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to the negotiation of definitive agreements ("Definitive Agreements") which will be negotiated during an exclusivity period ending on March 18, 2024 (subject to extension by both parties). The Definitive Agreements are expected to include customary representations, warranties, deal protections, including non-solicitation covenants and reciprocal expense reimbursement in certain circumstances. Steppe Gold has also agreed to give Boroo PL certain registration rights.

Additionally, for a period of six months following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Boroo PL, and/or its associates will have a right of first refusal to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project located in Peru through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Anacortes Mining Corp., at fair market value.

The conditions to execution of the Definitive Agreements include but are not limited to: (i) completion and satisfaction of due diligence (at the full discretion of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL); (ii) absence of a material adverse change in respect of Steppe Gold or Boroo Gold, as applicable; (iii) approval by each of Steppe Gold's and Boroo PL's board of directors to enter in the Definitive Agreement; and (iv) negotiation of Definitive Agreements in form and substance satisfactory to the parties.

Following the negotiation of the Definitive Agreements the Proposed Transaction will be conditional on the receipt of all necessary regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals, and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by the shareholders of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL.

Steppe Gold and Boroo PL will use best efforts to obtain executed lock-up agreements from certain of their shareholders to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at their applicable meetings. Directors and officers of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL that hold shares of the respective entities, as applicable, will enter into lock-up agreements to agree to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at the meetings.

The parties to the Term Sheet will co-operate to ensure the Proposed Transaction is structured in compliance with Toronto Stock Exchange rules and applicable securities laws, including Multilateral Instrument 61-101, as applicable, as well as with respect to any necessary formal valuations and fairness opinions, which, if required, will be prepared by qualified, independent valuators in due course.

The Term Sheet provides that Boroo PL will have the right to nominate two directors of Steppe Gold and key executive management of Steppe Gold will remain in place. Following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Steppe Gold will be the sole shareholder of Boroo Gold.

Benefits of the Proposed Transaction

The Proposed Transaction is expected to provide meaningful benefits to shareholders of Steppe Gold, including:

Increased production from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum in 2024 and 2025 and 160,000 oz per annum by 2026.

Strong cash flow and increased financial strength to service ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion debt and project financing.

Funding for exploration programs and further acquisition opportunities in Mongolia.

Increased optionality for the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru.

Creates a multi-asset producer with a strong base and focus in Mongolia.

Advisor

Steppe Gold's legal counsel is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP.

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release regarding Steppe Gold has been reviewed by Enkhtuvshin Khishigsuren, PEng., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Technical Reports

Additional information with respect to Steppe Gold's Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project, including its AuEq resource base, is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold dated November 6, 2022 and entitled "Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project (ATO) 2022 Mineral Resources & Reserves Report (NI 43-101)". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Further, information with respect to Steppe Gold's Tres Cruces Oxide Project is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold, dated August 21, 2023 and entitled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Steppe Gold

Steppe Gold is Mongolia's premier precious metals company and 100% owner of the ATO gold mine and the Uudam Khundii project in Mongolia.

About Boroo Gold

Established in 1997, Boroo Gold LLC is a leading gold producer in Mongolia with over 50,000 tons per day mining fleet, 5,500 tons per day mill and carbon-in-leach circuit gold processing plant, 3,000,000 tons per annum heap leach and carbon-in-columns plant, with a workforce of over 500 people. Boroo Gold LLC operates Boroo mine in Selenge province, as well as owning and operating the adjacent Ulaanbulag mine in Mongolia.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements", and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws collectively "forward-looking statements". These include statements regarding Steppe Gold's intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of the officers and directors of Steppe Gold for Steppe Gold's growth and valuation post-closing and future market conditions for metals.

When used in this news release, words such as "anticipated", "expected", "future", "opportunity", "ongoing", "potential", "proposed", "vision" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "should", "will", "would" or the negative connotation of such terms.

As well, forward-looking statements may relate to future outlook and anticipated events, such as the consummation and timing of the Proposed Transaction; the entering into the Definitive Agreements; the terms and conditions thereof; the proposed board of directors and management team of Steppe Gold following the Proposed Transaction; the length of the exclusivity period; the satisfaction of the conditions precedent to the Proposed Transaction; the strengths, characteristics and potential of the resulting company; the potential for value creation of Steppe Gold shareholders; and discussion of future financial or operational plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto of Steppe Gold and Boroo Gold, including with respect to the ATO gold mine and Tres Cruces gold project.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including those relating to required shareholder, regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals; obtaining sufficient number of lock up agreements; the results of any formal valuation and fairness opinion; exercise of any termination rights under the Term Sheet and the Definitive Agreements; meeting other conditions precedent in the Term Sheet; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Steppe Gold or Boroo PL; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information

Steppe Gold

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Jeremy South, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District 1, Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914
TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dore Copper Mining Corp. (the "Company" or "Dore Copper") (TSXV: DCMC; OTCQX: DRCMF; FRA: DCM) is pleased to announce that it has exercised its right to acquire a 65% interest in certain claims subject to a joint venture with SOQUEM (the "SOQUEM JV Property"), which surround and are adjacent to the Company's 100% owned Joe Mann Property, pursuant to an earn-in option agreement (the "Option Agreement") dated January 2, 2020, as amended October 28, 2022, between the Company and Ressources Jessie Inc. ("Ressources Jessie"). SOQUEM holds the remaining 35% interest in the SOQUEM JV Property.

In accordance with the terms of the Option Agreement, Ressources Jessie will transfer its 65% interest in the SOQUEM JV Property, comprising 69 claims totaling 3,029.6 ha, to the Company for $300,000 in cash and 3,333,333 common shares of the Company at a deemed price of $0.12 per common share, representing $400,000 in common shares. Following this acquisition, the Company has a controlling interest in a contiguous group of claims totaling 6,209.2 ha surrounding the former high-grade Joe Mann gold mine (Figure 1) and part of the southern Chibougamau Camp where Northern Superior Resources Inc. and IAMGOLD Corporation have significant gold mineral resources (Figure 2).

The acquisition is subject to the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. The common shares issued in connection with the acquisition are subject to a four month hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws which will expire on May 23, 2024.

Ernest Mast, President and CEO of Dore Copper, commented, With this transaction, we have consolidated a large contiguous group of claims around the former Joe Mann mine in the prolific southern Chibougamau camp. Most of the SOQUEM JV block has not been explored since the late 1990s and numerous gold targets remain to be evaluated on the property. We are looking forward to work with SOQUEM and we plan to commence a detailed review of the historical work and use new geological interpretations to generate high quality exploration targets.

Exploration Potential on the SOQUEM JV Property

The Companys contiguous group of claims (Figure 1) is located in the eastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone belt within the upper part of the Obatogamau Formation, within a major deformation corridor known as the Opawica-Guercheville shear zone. The Company has a 100% interest in the former Joe Mann mine, which produced 1.12 million ounces of gold at an average grade of 8.26 g/t from the 1950s to 2007.1 The deposit has an inferred mineral resource of 680,000 tonnes grading 6.78 g/t Au and 0.24% Cu, which was included in the Company's Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) of its hub-and-spoke operation announced on May 10, 2022.2

The main lithologies encountered are basalts, rhyolites, gabbros and several families of felsic, intermediate and mafic dykes. Two felsic intrusions, La Dauversiere and Verneuil, are found respectively to the northeast and northwest of the claim group. The stratigraphy is east-west, dipping sub-vertically, and metamorphosed to the upper greenschist facies (epidote-amphibolite facies).

A number of gold occurrences and mineralized zones have been identified on the SOQUEM JV Property and are briefly summarized below. An evaluation of all the exploration work conducted on the SOQUEM JV will be completed over the coming months to identify exploration targets. No significant exploration work on the SOQUEM JV Property has been carried out since the late 1990s, except for the Rohault and Norhart gold occurrences where the latest exploration activities took place in 2004.

Rohault

The Rohault gold occurrence is located north of the former Joe Mann mine and its western extension is located approximately 300 meters north of the mine infrastructures. This structure has been tested by drilling over a 2 kilometer strike length. The Rohault mineralized zone is characterized by quartz-carbonate veins and veinlets which cut mafic lavas and intrusions. The main occurrence contains approximately 15% pyrite and 5% chalcopyrite with several interesting historical drill intercepts: 108.71 g/t Au, 16.85 g/t Ag and 1.4% Cu over 0.6 meter at a downhole depth of 44.95 meters (H-560) and 6.32 g/t Au and 0.37% Cu over 3.6 meters (including 34.5 g/t Au and 0.99% Cu over 0.6 meter) at a downhole depth of 79.2 meters (H-518).1

Norhart

The Norhart gold occurrence is located approximately 1 kilometer north of former Joe Mann mine. The gold mineralization shows similar characteristics to Joe Mann. It is comprised of five parallel quartz vein structures, separated by between 50 and 150 meters over a strike length of approximately 500 meters. Gold mineralization is within quartz veins cutting strongly altered granular felsic dykes or basalts.

Significant historical drill intercepts in the sector of Norhart include: 65.85 g/t Au, 5.9 g/t Ag over 6.34 meters at a downhole depth of 207.46 meters (H-04-579); 160.50 g/t Au, 9.8 g/t Ag over 0.85 meters at a downhole depth of 235.0 meters (H-04-582); 81 g/t Au, 1.4 g/t Ag over 1.2 meters at a downhole depth of 234.8 meters (H-04-580); 24.65 g/t Au, 17.48 g/t Ag, 0.79% Cu over 1.92 meters at a downhole depth of 256.62 meters (H-04-578), 99.64 g/t Au, 11.8 g/t Ag and 0.12% Cu over 0.3 meter at a downhole depth of 283.85 meters (H-569); 10.04 g/t Au, 16.3 g/t Ag and 0.11% Cu over 1.2 meters at a downhole depth of 521.2 meters (H-535 EXT); 57.65 g/t Au over 0.40 meter at a downhole depth of 264.0 meters (H-550).1 ,3

Currie-Mills

The Currie Mills (Lac James) gold occurrence is located 3 kilometers east-northeast of the former Joe Mann mine. The mineralized system is parallel to Joe Mann and contains a small historical near-surface resource (not compliant with NI 43-101). Mineralization consists of two lenses (North and South) of disseminated chalcopyrite, pyrite, pyrrhotite and arsenopyrite in centimetric to decimetric quartz-carbonate veins with locally some specks of free gold with altered and sheared non-magnetic coarse gabbros. One significant historical drill hole intercept of 3.9 /t Au over 6.9 meters at a downhole depth of 61 meters (VM87-07) is located 150 meters east of the historical resource.1,4

Lac Meston

The Lac Meston gold occurrence is located 4.8 kilometers southwest of the former Joe Mann mine. The mineralization is found in a tonalite intrusion. An underground ramp of 305 meters was built in 1974 but did not access the mineralized zone. Significant historical drill hole intercepts include: 18.49 g/t Au over 3.61 meters (M-81-09), 34.21 g/t Au over 1.55 meters (A-12) and 6.92 g/t Au over 6.10 meters (A-14), all of which were at less than 100 meters depth.1,5,6

Adnor

The Adnor mineralized zone, located 3 kilometers west of Joe Mann, consists of a number of east-west subparallel veins within a sequence of pillowed massive basaltic flows injected by a variety of small felsic dykes. A significant drilling campaign was conducted in the early 1950s to define the mineralized zone. The highest drill intercept returned 2,297 g/t Au over 0.30 m (A-10). A subsequent drilling program in the early 1970s returned the following significant results: 14.40 g/t Au over 0.3 meter (N-7-2); 6.86 g/t Au over 0.6 meter (N-6); and 4.80 g/t Au over 1.5 meters (N-7). Highlight from the subsequent late 1980s drilling program include 11.04 g/t over 3.05 meters (H-380).1,7

Noranda - La Dauversiere

This mineral occurrence is located approximately 3.5 kilometers east of Joe Mann. Gold mineralization is found in quartz carbonate veins with pyrrhotite-pyrite and chalcopyrite within sheared and altered gabbro. A number of diamond drill holes were completed by several companies prior to the late 1990s and significant results included: 8.16 g/t Au, 2.4 g/t Ag and 0.16% Cu over 0.55 meter (H-223); and 12.3 g/t Au over 1.02 meters (VM-89-26).1

Montgomery

This mineral showing is located approximately 2 kilometers west of Joe Mann. Gold mineralization is found in quartz veins containing varying amounts of pyrite, scheelite, chalcopyrite and local visible gold within a sheared structure covering a strike length of 475 meters and up to 8 meters wide. Significant historical intersections include: 4.41 g/t Au over 0.27 meter (M-7); 106.10 g/t Au (trench # 1 channel sample); 13.56 g/t Au (trench # 2 channel sample); and 199.66 g/t Au (trench # 4 channel sample).1

Wright Hargreaves

The mineral showing (also known as Fancamp) is located 500 meters southwest of the Adnor showing. Gold mineralization is erratic and associated with <1 meter quartz-carbonate+/-tourmaline veins and veinlets with auriferous pyrite in massive and pillowed basalts and co-magmatic magnetic gabbro-sills. Historical trench results include 9.88 g/t Au over 1.0 meter and 6.05 g/t Au over 1.0 meter. The only significant highlight from the latest drilling program (1980s) include 4.50 g/t over 0.60 meter (87-1).1

Lac Antoine

Located near the southwest boundary of the property, the Lac Antoine gold mineralization is associated with northeast trending quartz-carbonate veins containing up to 15% pyrite and minor chalcopyrite within pillow basalts. Historical work only reports high-grade gold assays (10 to +30 g/t Au) from grab samples.1

Bloc Sud

Located near the southwest boundary of the property, the Bloc Sud gold mineralization consists of black quartz veins (+/- sulphides) within a chlorite-sericite-ankerite schist of decametric width at the contact of a basalt-tonalite dyke. An intercept of 1.96 g/t Au over 6.25 meters, including 6.98 g/t Au over 1.35 meters (H-507), was reported from a limited drilling campaign.1

Qualified Person

Sylvain Lepine, M.Sc., P.Geo., Vice President Exploration of the Company and a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

Figure 1. Joe Mann Property - Land Tenure Map and Main Gold Occurrences

Figure 2. South Chibougamau Area - Land Tenure Map

About Dore Copper Mining Corp.

Dore Copper Mining Corp. aims to be the next copper producer in Quebec with an initial production target of +50 Mlbs of copper equivalent annually by implementing a hub-and-spoke operation model with multiple high-grade copper-gold assets feeding its centralized Copper Rand mill.1 The Company has delivered its PEA in May 2022 and is proceeding with a feasibility study.

The Company has consolidated a large land package in the prolific Lac Dore/Chibougamau and Joe Mann mining camps that has historically produced 1.6 billion pounds of copper and 4.4 million ounces of gold.2 The land package includes 13 former producing mines, deposits and resource target areas within a 60-kilometre radius of the Company's Copper Rand Mill.

For further information, please contact:

Visit: www.dorecopper.com

Facebook: Dore Copper Mining

LinkedIn: Dore Copper Mining Corp.

Twitter: @DoreCopper

Instagram: @DoreCopperMining

Sources for historic production figures: Economic Geology, v. 107, pp. 963989 - Structural and Stratigraphic Controls on Magmatic, Volcanogenic, and Shear Zone-Hosted Mineralization in the Chapais-Chibougamau Mining Camp, Northeastern Abitibi, Canada by Francois Leclerc et al. (Lac Dore/Chibougamau mining camp) and NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Joe Mann Property dated January 11, 2016 by Geologica Groupe-Conseil Inc. for Jessie Ressources Inc. (Joe Mann mine). Technical report titled "Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Chibougamau Hub-and-Spoke Complex, Quebec, Canada" dated June 15, 2022, in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The Technical Report was prepared by BBA Inc. with several consulting firms contributing to sections of the study, including SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd., SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. and WSP Inc. GM 62760: Ressources Meston Inc. Forage Printemps et Automne 2024, Propriete Joe Mann, Secteurs Norhart et Rohault, by Denis McNicholes, geo, dated April 8, 2005. GM 49329 : Cambior Inc. Rapport de la Campagne de Forages Hiver 1989, Propriete Currie-Mills by Pierre Ouelette, dated April 11, 1989. GM 29950: Ayarhar Mining Corp.dated December 10, 1973 by S.V. Burr (drill holes, A series). GM 38101: Ressources Meston Inc. Forage Hiver 1981 Meston-Gamache by Paul Gagne dated May 1981 (drill holes, M series). GM 49692: Drill logs. Mine Meston 1989.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements



This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the timing and ability of the Company to receive necessary regulatory approvals, the Company's ability to meet its production target, the commencement, timing and completion of a feasibility study, and the plans, operations and prospects of the Company and its properties are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, delays or inability to receive required regulatory approvals, health emergencies, pandemics and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
VANCOUVER, BC and HONG KONG / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV:RSLV) (OTCQX:RSNVF) (FRA:4ZC) ("Reyna'' or the "Company") is pleased to share results from ExploreTech's Artificial Intelligence (AI) optimization of existing geophysical data from the Guigui Project in Chihuahua, Mexico. ExploreTech's proprietary AI algorithms highlight a strong, multi-layered magnetic anomaly southeast of the 0.5 sq. kilometre sulphide-mineralized skarn footprint identified in 2022 drilling (See Press Release from April 7, 2022). The results reinforce existing geological thinking that the intrusive source for the district lies in that area and greatly enhance the area's potential (Figure 2). Pads to drill the target are already permitted and accessible.

The Guigui Project covers the southern part of the Santa Eulalia District -one of the world's largest Carbonate Replacement Deposits ("CRDs") with over 500 Million ounces of historical silver production. Reyna's CRD exploration model indicates that the intrusive source and proximal mineralized skarn for the system remain to be found, and ExploreTech's AI approach to modeling the existing geophysics is specifically designed to augment surface-based geological work to locate that intrusive source beneath extensive, but thin, pre-mineral volcanic rock cover.

ExploreTech's platform first uses AI to identify and locate where a geophysical anomaly actually is and then design the optimum hole geometry to hit it. The first step searches a geophysical survey dataset and calculates thousands of possible explanations for anomalies measured at the surface (See exploretech.ai for additional information). For CRDs, the search focuses on solutions most likely to be caused by a source intrusion. This process generates thousands of candidate models that the program then evaluates in 3 dimensions to determine the optimal drilling trajectory to pierce as many of these potential intrusion-related anomalies as possible (See Figure 1).

ExploreTech's use of AI to reveal and reinforce target anomalies in existing geophysical datasets appears to be a significant new exploration tool and Reyna intends to apply it to the extensive existing datasets for its Gryphon Summit and Medicine Springs CRD projects in Nevada.

"We are delighted with the strength and coherence of the anomaly ExploreTech has modeled in the part of Guigui where we've been homing in on the source intrusion for the Santa Eulalia District, and we really look forward to drilling their optimized hole," said Jorge Ramiro Monroy CEO of Reyna Silver. "The results already make a compelling case to immediately apply their AI approach to our new geophysics (AMT) from Medicine Springs and the treasure trove of geophysics that we inherited with Gryphon."

"What really gets my attention, beyond the strength and coherence of the target generated by ExploreTech's cutting-edge AI approach to the geophysics, is the fact that it highlights a target that our Project Geologist, Rene Ramirez, has been championing for several years," said Dr. Peter Megaw, Chief Exploration Advisor to Reyna Silver. "Exploring through cover is not easy, so having this kind of tool to combine with boot-leather geology and sharpen our targeting at Guigui and our Nevada projects may be an important exploration advance across the board."

Figure 1. A 3D cross-section of the Magnetic Body in grey highlighted by ExploreTech's work underlying the Area of Interest identified southeast of the 2021 Drilling Program. The thin volcanic layer obscuring the Carbonate rocks (limestone) is in dark green. The optimized drill hole aims to intersect the highest percentage of the optimized geophysics layers possible.

Click here to watch video about the ExploreTech optimized Geophysics at Guigui.

Figure 2. Plan view of the Aeromag geophysics survey over the Guigui project (prior to the acquisition of La Chinche) with previous drillhole collars and downhole traces shown in dark grey. The magnetic feature in the Area of Interest showcases the sharp contrast between the conductive feature displayed in red and the surrounding resistive terrain in blue.

The ExploreTech partnership with Reyna Silver highlighted an area of interest, entirely covered by altered pre-mineral volcanics, lying southeast of the center of the previous drilling (See Press Release from April 7, 2022). Reyna had data from two previous geophysical surveys over the area, so applying ExploreTech's cutting-edge xFlare program to this blind target was an ideal opportunity to sharpen and de-risk the target (Figure 2). xFlare AI makes multiple model runs on the data, varying parameters between runs to generate a range of model solutions. These are then combined and the best-fitting models stack into clusters representing the tightest approximation of where the anomaly lies. Once this is accomplished, the program designs a drill hole that passes through the centers of as many of the individual anomalies as possible, again enhancing the ability to reliably test whatever feature is creating the anomaly (See Figure 1 and explainer video)

The result of this process at Guigui is a Magnetic anomaly lying 1000-1200m deep, 400-800m southeast of the 0.5 by 1.25 km area where previous drilling encountered sulfide-mineralized skarn (See Press Release from April 7, 2022). This is very close to where the previous drilling and our exploration model suggest a strong candidate for where the source intrusion should lie. The DrillerAPI subroutine of xFlare shows a high probability of intersecting the magnetic anomaly with a 1500m hole drilled from a previously permitted pad.

Application of ExploreTech Modeling to Nevada Properties

Reyna recently ran an aerial Magneto Telluric (MT) survey at Medicine Springs that revealed a conductive anomaly underlying the altered and silicified carbonates that yielded the strongest surface copper geochemical anomaly in the project area. This combination of anomalies is interpreted as reflecting a possible intrusive center hidden under alluvial cover just northeast of the reconnaissance drilling area (See Press Release from November 8, 2023). The parallels between the source intrusion targets at Guigui and Medicine Spring make applying ExploreTech's approach here a logical next step.

Reyna's Gryphon Summit Gold, Silver and critical metals project came with 39 kilometres of IP, 17 kilometres of CSAMT and NSAMT, gravimetric, hyperspectral, and lidar-like surveys. ExploreTech's capability to quickly process large datasets like these will enable Reyna Silver's technical team to optimize the incorporation of these geophysics datasets for its 2024 drilling program. The targets will focus on the intrusion-centered porphyry-CRD mineralization and the Carlin-type mineralization that previous work indicates overlap on the property (See Press Release November 29, 2023).

QUALIFIED PERSON

Dr. Peter Megaw, Ph.D., C.P.G., the Company's Chief Exploration Advisor and Qualified Person, reviewed the technical aspects of the exploration projects described herein and is responsible for the design and conduct of the exploration program and the verification and quality assurance of analytical results. Dr. Megaw is not independent as he and/or companies with which he is affiliated hold Net Smelter Royalties on the Guigui and Batopilas Projects that predate Reyna Silver acquiring them.

ABOUT REYNA SILVER

Reyna Silver Corp. (TSXV: RSLV) is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company focused on exploring for high-grade, district-scale silver deposits in Mexico and USA.

Reyna's principal properties are the Guigui and Batopilas Properties in Chihuahua, Mexico. Guigui covers the interpreted source area for the Santa Eulalia District and Batopilas covers most of Mexico's historically highest-grade silver system. The Company also has an option to acquire 100% of the Medicine Springs property in Nevada, USA as well as the early stage La Durazno and Matilde and La Reyna mineral properties in Mexico.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arras Minerals Corp. (TSX-V: ARK) (Arras or the Company) is pleased to announce the results from the re-analysis of samples from three historic diamond drill holes from the Berezski East project (Berezski East or the Project) located within the Companys Elemes exploration licence (Elemes or the Licence) in northeastern Kazakhstan. The Elemes licence is not included in the Teck-Arras Strategic Exploration Alliance announced on December 7, 2023.

Highlights from the Re-Assay include:

Bz6 - 108.0 meters (m) of mineralization grading 0.94 % CuEq or 1.33 /t AuEq (1.30 g/t gold (Au), 0.19 % copper (Cu) and 1.5 g/t silver (Ag)) starting at surface. Including 30.8 m grading 2.21 % CuEq or 2.66 g/t AuEq (3.14 g/t Au, 0.39 % Cu and 3.0 g/t Ag) starting at surface.

(1.30 g/t gold (Au), 0.19 % copper (Cu) and 1.5 g/t silver (Ag)) starting at surface. Bz16 - 46.0 m of mineralization grading 0.71 % CuEq or 0.86 g/t AuEq (0.95 g/t Au, 0.17 % Cu and 0.8 g/t Ag) starting at 87.0 m depth down-hole. Including 18.0 m grading 1.05 % CuEq or 1.28 g/t AuEq (1.54 g/t Au, 0.17 % Cu and 0.7 g/t Ag) from 102.0 m depth down-hole.

- (0.95 g/t Au, 0.17 % Cu and 0.8 g/t Ag) starting at 87.0 m depth down-hole. Bz20 - 94.0 m of mineralization grading 0.59 % CuEq or 0.71 g/t AuEq (0.81 g/t Au, 0.12 % Cu and 0.9 g/t Ag) starting at 199.0 m depth down-hole. Including 42.0 m grading 0.99 % CuEq or 1.20 g/t AuEq (1.43 g/t Au, 0.17 % Cu and 1.0 g/t Ag) from 227.0 m depth down-hole.

(0.81 g/t Au, 0.12 % Cu and 0.9 g/t Ag) starting at 199.0 m depth down-hole.

Tim Barry, CEO, commented, The recent re-analysis program at Berezski East and Quartzite-Gorka has underscored the promising mineralizing system developing within our Elemes Licence. Our efforts over the past year have revealed a significant at-surface zone of mineralization, extending across a 5-kilometer strike, with potential expansions in every direction. To date, key areas of interest include porphyry style mineralization found at the Berezski East, Berezski Central, and Quartzite Gorka prospects, and epithermal style mineralization found at the Karagandy-Ozek prospect. Re-logging and re-assay of historic drill holes has verified intercepts of high-grade of mineralization often exceeding 100 meters in thickness and often starting from surface. It is also important to note that many of historical drill holes end in mineralization as most of the drilling was quite shallow, averaging between 200-300 meters in depth.



Table 1. Summary table for historical drill holes Bz6, Bz16 and Bz20 from the Berezski East Target, Elemes Project

Notes: Copper Equivalent (CuEq) grades reported for the drill holes at Berezski East were calculated using the following formula: CuEq % = Copper (%) + (Gold (g/t) x 0.8264) + (Silver (g/t) x 0.0107). Gold Equivalent (AuEq) grades reported for the drill holes at Berezski were calculated using the following formula: AuEq g/t = Gold (g/t) + (Copper (%) x 1.2100) + (Silver (g/t) x 0.0129). Assumptions used for the copper and gold equivalent calculations were metal prices of US$3.00/lb. Copper, US$1,700/oz Gold, US$22/oz Silver, and metallurgical recoveries were assumed to be 90% for Cu and Au and 50% for Ag and Mo. Intervals are core-length and original core recovery is estimated to be > 90 %.

The Berezski East Project: is located within the 425 square kilometre Elemes mineral exploration licence. The Elemes license is located within the Bozshakol-Chingiz metallogenic belt that also hosts the Companys flagship Beskauga porphyry copper-gold project approximately 80 km to the east, and KAZ Minerals Bozshakol porphyry copper-gold mine approximately 60 km to the northwest. Elemes benefits from excellent modern infrastructure and ease of accessibility, being located only 20 kilometres (km) from Arras operational base in the city of Ekibastuz, northeastern Kazakhstan. A paved highway runs through the license, and within 1 km of the Berezski East project. 1100 KVA power lines and heavy rail all lie within a 15 kilometer radius of the project.

Figure 1. Arras Minerals License Package (Pavlodar, Kazakhstan)

Berezski East was drilled between 2007 and 2010 by the previous operators. Nineteen drillholes for a total of 5,695 meters have been drilled at the project, to a maximum depth of 372.5 meters with an average depth of 299.7 meters per hole. Mineralization remains open in several directions and at depth. Fourteen historical drill core and all available coarse rejects have been acquired by Arras and are now stored at the Companys core storage facility in Ekibastuz. All available drill-core have been re-logged in detail by Arras employees for lithology, structure, alteration, and mineralization.

Figure 2. Location of the three holes re-assayed by Arras at the Berezski East project, Elemes Project. Collars for all historical drilling are shown.

The mineralization seen at Berezski East is interpreted to be part of a gold-rich porphyry copper-gold system, which forms part of a far larger porphyry-epithermal system within the Elemes License. Identified prospects to date include: Berezski East, Berezski Central, Quartzite Gorka, and Karagandy-Ozek, the locations of which are shown in the map below.

Figure 3. The Location of the Berezski East target in relation to the Quartzite Gorka and Karagandy-Ozek targets previously announced by Arras Minerals. Intense alteration and widespread surface mineralization across a 5-kilometer strike is indicating a big, largely untested porphyry system in the Elemes Licence area.

Re-analysis of the core: The re-analysis of coarse rejects from Berezski East demonstrates the high-grade nature of the mineralization. Individual assays returned up to 18.0 g/t Au, 1.01 % Cu and 47.7 g/t Ag, respectively. The gold-rich mineralization comprises of sheeted and/or stockwork veining of quartz-magnetite A veins with minor chalcopyrite-bornite  k-feldspar halos; magnetite-only M veins; and quartz-chalcopyrite veins. Locally disseminated patches of chalcopyrite, bornite and pyrite occur. Anhydrite veins and late epidote-carbonate veins are also observed. The host diorite intrusion of Ordovician age is fine-grained, equigranular and typically highly magnetic. Strong potassic (k-feldspar-quartz-magnetite-secondary biotite) alteration of the host diorite has been variably overprinted by intermediate argillic (illite-chlorite) alteration. A shallow weathering crust comprises of intense kaolinite and iron-oxide alteration with minor supergene copper mineralization.

A high-resolution airborne magnetic survey over the Elemes property by Arras and 3D inversion of the resulting data demonstrates that the known mineralization at Berezski East sits on the edge of a distinct magnetic high that extends to the northwest, eventually linking with the Karagandy-Ozek low sulfidation epithermal gold prospect where high gold grades were reported in Soviet-era exploration trenches. The airborne survey has significantly improved the Companys understanding of the structural controls on the mineralization and provided several new drill targets within the immediate vicinity.

Re-logging, Assay, QAQC Procedures: All available drill core from Berezski East have been re-logged in detail by Arras employees for lithology, structure, alteration and mineralization (Figure 1). In addition, Arras also measured several petrophysical properties on the drill core including density, magnetic susceptibility, conductivity, resistivity and induced polarization. High resolution photographs of all drill core were captured using Seequents Imago cloud-based image management software. The core was also analyzed for alteration minerals using TerraSpec SWIR/NIR spectroscopy, with final interpretation pending.

The re-assayed coarse rejects from Berezski East were prepared in Arras in-house sample preparation laboratory in Ekibastuz by Arras employees. As the coarse rejects had been in dry storage since 2007/08, they were first re-homogenized by passing through a roller crusher (<2 mm), before being split using a riffle splitter. An approximately one-kilogram split was then pulverized using cup vibration mills to below 75-microns. The pulp was then split again, with 250 g shipped to Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories LLC (SAEL), located in Kara-Balta in Kyrgyzstan, for geochemical analysis. Prior to analysis, SAEL undertook Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) on selected pulps, ensuring 85 % passing below -75-microns. A 30 g aliquot was then analyzed for gold content by fire assay with an Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) finish (SAEL method: Au-AA25). A second pulp split was analyzed for 46 elements by a combination of Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) after four-acid digestion on a 1.0 g aliquot (SAEL method: MA/UT). All samples exceeding 1% copper were re-analyzed using a 4-acid digest ICP-MS ore grade method. SAEL laboratory is accredited to ISO 17025:2005 UKAS ref 4028 and have internal QA/QC programs for monitoring accuracy and precision. Internal QA/QC samples were inserted by the analytical laboratory and reviewed by the Company prior to release. No material QA/QC issues have been identified. SAEL is entirely independent of the Company.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical disclosure included in this news release has been prepared under the supervision of and approved by Tim Barry, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of Arras Minerals Corp., who is also a Member and Chartered Professional Geologist (MAusIMM CP(Geo)) of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr. Barry has sufficient experience, relevant to the styles of mineralization and type of deposits under consideration and to the activity that he is undertaking, to qualify as a Qualified Person (QP) for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects (NI 43-101).

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Tim Barry"

Tim Barry, MAusIMM CP(Geo)

Chief Executive Officer and Director

INVESTOR RELATIONS:

+1 604 687 5800

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Further information can be found on the Companys website https://www.arrasminerals.com or follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arrasminerals or on X (formerly known as Twitter): https://twitter.com/arrasminerals

About Arras Minerals Corp

Arras is a Canadian exploration and development company advancing a portfolio of copper and gold assets in northeastern Kazakhstan, including the Option Agreement on the Beskauga copper and gold project. The Company has established the third-largest license package in the country prospective for copper and gold (behind Rio Tinto and Fortescue Metals Group). Arras and Teck Resources entered into a Strategic Exploration Alliance covering a portion of the Companys regional license package in December 2023 in which Teck will sole fund an initial US$5 million generative exploration phase. The Companys shares are listed on the TSX-V under the trading symbol ARK.

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors concerning estimates of Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources

This press release uses the terms measured resources, indicated resources, and inferred resources which are defined in, and required to be disclosed by, NI 43-101. The Company advises U.S. investors that these terms are not recognized by the SEC. The estimation of measured, indicated and inferred resources involves greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic feasibility than the estimation of proven and probable reserves. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that measured and indicated mineral resources will be converted into reserves. The estimation of inferred resources involves far greater uncertainty as to their existence and economic viability than the estimation of other categories of resources. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that estimates of inferred mineral resources exist, are economically minable, or will be upgraded into measured or indicated mineral resources. Under Canadian securities laws, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies.

Disclosure of contained ounces in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations, however the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute reserves by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. Accordingly, the information contained in this press release may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies that are not subject NI 43-101.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events and Arras future results that are subject to the safe harbors created under the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Exchange Act, and applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding plans and expectations of the exploration program Arras is in the process of undertaking, including the expansion of the Mineral Resource, and other aspects of the Mineral Resource estimates for the Beskauga project. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections about Arras exploration projects, the industry in which Arras operates and the beliefs and assumptions of Arras management. Words such as expects, anticipates, targets, goals, projects, intends, plans, believes, seeks, estimates, continues, may, variations of such words, and similar expressions and references to future periods, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond managements control, including undertaking further exploration activities, the results of such exploration activities and that such results support continued exploration activities, unexpected variations in ore grade, types and metallurgy, volatility and level of commodity prices, the availability of sufficient future financing, and other matters discussed under the caption Risk Factors in the Management Discussion and Analysis filed on the Companys profile on SEDAR on March 30, 2023 and in the Companys Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2022 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed on February 24, 2023 available on www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this release is based only on information currently available and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Battery Metals Inc. (Vital or the Company) (CSE: VBAM | OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is pleased to announce results from the soil sampling and surficial geological study recently completed on the Sting project (the Project), located in northwestern Newfoundland.

Key Highlights

Compelling consecutive gold, copper, and zinc values in soil were returned along the Gregory River Fault

Significant multi-station soil results for copper, gold, and zinc in two zones across a regional NE trend spanning ~ 2 km

Highlighted results include 1.96 ppm gold, 0.27% copper and 0.42% zinc from soil.

On trend with the York Harbour Copper Mine 1 - The faulted contact between mafic marine volcanics and hypabyssal intrusive rocks, referred to as the Gregory River Fault, runs through the center of the Project and the York Harbour Copper Mine further south.

- The faulted contact between mafic marine volcanics and hypabyssal intrusive rocks, referred to as the Gregory River Fault, runs through the center of the Project and the York Harbour Copper Mine further south. Surficial geology study completed that shows correlation between anomalous values and colluvial material, indicating nearby bedrock source.

Adrian Lamoureux, Vitals Chief Executive Officer and President, stated, This expansive Cu-Au-Zn soil anomaly covering ground with no recorded mineralization highlights the prospectivity of the Project. More importantly, sampling and surficial mapping has revealed that the anomaly is likely sourced directly from underlaying bedrock. When combined with recent rock sampling results, a compelling critical metal drill target is emerging.

The mafic rocks that underlie the coincident Cu-Au-Zn soil anomaly are part of the Bay of Islands Complex that is host to copper and copper/zinc deposits such as the York Harbour Mine1, a former producer located 35 km to the south-southeast. Within the Project, the contact between these volcanic rocks and associated intrusive rocks, known as the Gregory River fault, has been shown to host copper, gold and zinc mineralization, evidenced by rock sampling results from the recently completed prospecting program (see news release dated October 26, 2023) that returned <0.001 to 9.50 ppm gold, <1 to 48400 ppm copper and 4 to 19700 ppm zinc from outcrop located on the soil anomalys southwestern flank.

A detailed surficial geology study over the core claims comprising the Project was undertaken by Dr. Derek Turner, M.Sc., Ph.D., P.Geo. (B.C.) on behalf of the Company and has revealed that the soil anomaly strongly correlates with colluvial surficial material, indicating that the anomaly is likely derived from underlaying bedrock with little mechanical or gravitational dispersion. Immediately west of the anomaly, till veneers (< 1 m depth) and till blankets (> 1 m depth) likely mask potential indications of bedrock mineralization.

Figure 1 - Cu-Au-Zn Soil Anomaly on the Sting Project

In total, 404 soil samples were collected. Results ranged from < 0.001 to 1.96 ppm Au, 4 to 2675 ppm Cu, and 4 to 4164 ppm Zn.

Soil samples were collected from the B-horizon, where available, in pits dug with a spade-bladed long handle rock hammer. Approximately 200-400 g of material was placed into brown kraft paper bags, tied closed with flagging tape, and then each bag was assigned a unique sequential identifying number denoting the location and the sampler. Samples were hand-delivered to the SGS Labs prep facility in Grand Falls, Newfoundland and prepared with code PRP104, where samples are dried to 60C, and then screened through an 80 mesh. Prepared material was then shipped to SGSs main lab in Burnaby, B.C. where samples were analyzed using method GE_ARM3V25 which involves analysis by ICP-MS following a 2-acid digestion producing a 49-element suite

Thomas Hawkins, P. Geo (1000315), a Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

1 The Qualified Person has not verified the information on the adjacent properties and the information disclosed and is not necessarily indicative of mineralization on the Sting Project that is the subject of this press release. Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby and/or geologically similar properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Companys property.

About Vital Battery Metals Inc.

Vital Battery Metals Inc. (CSE: VBAM |OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to the development of strategic projects comprising battery, base and precious metals in stable jurisdictions. The Company is working to advance its Schofield Lithium, Dickson Lake Lithium, Sting Copper Project, and Vent Copper-Gold Projects.

The Schofield Lithium Project covers 8,824 hectares and is adjacent to Brunswick Explorations Hearst Lithium Project. The Schofield Lithium Project is located ~60 km south of Hearst, Ontario.

The Dickson Lake Lithium Project covers 464 single-cell mining claims and approximately 9,780 hectares and is near a Brunswick Exploration Lithium Project, Imagine Lithiums Jackpot Deposit and Rock Techs Georgia Lake Deposit.

The Sting Copper Project covers approximately 12,300 hectares and hosts multiple historic Newfoundland and Labrador Government documented mineral occurrences and is located within a 50 km corridor known for significant volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS), copper quartz vein lode and low sulphation epithermal gold showings. The Vent Copper-Gold project covers 1,562 hectares in British Columbia. Vital continues to evaluate value-add assets to bolster its project portfolio.

For more information, visit www.vitalbatterymetals.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Adrian Lamoureux

Chief Executive Officer, Director

+1 (604) 229-9772

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Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the Project acquisition bringing a low-risk opportunity, the Company building a strong battery metals portfolio with low-risk opportunities that positively impact the Company and its shareholders and the Company providing an initial work plan are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Project and its mineralization potential; the Companys objectives, goals or future plans with respect to the Project; the commencement of drilling or exploration programs in the future; the expected benefits from the results of the program. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - K2 Gold Corporation (TSXV: KTO) (OTCQB: KTGDF) (FSE: 23K) ("K2" or the "Company") today announced a non-brokered private placement whereby the Company will issue up to 10,000,000 units (the "Units") at a price of CDN$0.10 per Share (the "Offering Price") for total gross proceeds of up to CDN$1,000,000 (the "Offering).

Each Unit will consist of one common share (a "Share") in the capital of the Company and one non-transferable common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant being a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will be exercisable to acquire one Share at a price of CDN$0.30 per Share for a period of 12 months from the date of issuance subject to an acceleration clause. If the 10-day volume-weighted average trading price of the Shares as quoted on the TSX-V is equal to or greater than $0.35 at the close of any trading day, then the Company may, at its option, accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants by issuing a press release (a "Warrant Acceleration Press Release") announcing that the expiry date of the Warrants shall be deemed to be on the 30th day following the issuance of the Warrant Acceleration Press Release (the "Accelerated Expiry Date"). All Warrants that remain unexercised following the Accelerated Expiry Date shall immediately expire and all rights of holders of such Warrants shall be terminated without any compensation to such holder.

K2 intends to use the net proceeds raised from the Offering for exploration and ongoing permitting at the Mojave project on the company's Mojave Gold project located in Inyo County, California, USA, as well as for general working capital.

The Company may pay finder's fees on a portion of the Offering, subject to compliance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange and applicable securities legislation.

The closing of the Offering is subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. There are no material facts or material changes regarding the Company that have not been generally disclosed.

About the Mojave Project

The Mojave project is a 5,830-hectare oxide gold project with base metal targets located in California. Multiple previously recognized surface gold targets have been successfully drilled in the past, most notably by Newmont and BHP. Since acquiring the property, K2 has completed geochemical and geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, LiDAR, a WorldView 3 alteration survey, and successfully completed a 17-hole RC drill program focused on the Dragonfly and Newmont Zones. Highlights from K2's drilling program include 6.68 g/t Au over 45.72m from surface at the Dragonfly Zone, and 1.69 g/t Au over 41.15m from 44.20m depth at the Newmont Zone.

Qualified Person ("QP")

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with Canadian regulatory requirements set out in NI 43-101 and reviewed and approved by Eric Buitenhuis, M.Sc., P.Geo., K2's QP and Vice President of Exploration.

About K2 Gold

K2 is a proud member of Discovery Group and currently has projects in Southwest USA and the Yukon.

The Wels Project is located in Western Yukon, approximately 40km east of the community of Beaver Creek and 60km south of Newmont Goldcorp's 4Moz Coffee deposit, within the traditional territory of White River First Nation. The land position consists of 350 contiguous Quartz Claims covering 7,200 hectares. Wels is underlain by metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks of the White River Formation that have been intruded by a series of Triassic gabbroic sills and Cretaceous granitic plugs. This package has been cut by a series of WNW trending high-angle structures that host alteration and gold mineralization. Mineralization is noted in all rock types observed on the property to date and is associated with quartz veining, brecciation, and sericite alteration with anomalous As, Sb, and, locally, visible gold. Four discrete mineralized trends are currently known, with only one trend drilled to date, delivering encouraging assay results of 2.37 g/t Au over 28.5m and 10.38 g/t Au over 6.0m. All mineralized trends remain open along strike and approximately 80% of the property is currently unexplored.

The Mojave project is a 5,830-hectare oxide gold project with base metal targets located in California. Multiple previously recognized surface gold targets have been successfully drilled in the past, most notably by Newmont and BHP. Since acquiring the property, K2 has completed geochemical and geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, LiDAR, a WorldView 3 alteration survey, and successfully completed a 17-hole RC drill program focused on the Dragonfly and Newmont Zones. Highlights from K2's drilling program include 6.68 g/t Au over 45.72m from surface at the Dragonfly Zone, and 1.69 g/t Au over 41.15m from 44.20m depth at the Newmont Zone.

K2 is committed to transparency, accountability, environmental stewardship, safety, diversity, inclusion, and community engagement.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Anthony Margarit"

President and CEO K2 Gold Corporation.

For further information about K2 Gold Corporation or this news release, please visit our website at k2gold.com or contact our Office in Canada at 778-266-1456 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

K2 Gold Corporation is a member of Discovery Group based in Vancouver, Canada. For more information please visit: discoverygroup.ca.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements that are not historical facts. Forward- looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the exploration program at Si2, Wels, and Mojave, including results of drilling, and future exploration plans at Si2, Wels, and Mojave. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Company's inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its planned activities, and the Company's inability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies. The reader is referred to the Company's public disclosure record which is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except as required by securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. No securities of the Company have been or will, in the foreseeable future, be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
Ireland has taken legal action against the United Kingdom in Europe's top rights court over a law granting immunity to combatants in the Northern Ireland conflict, the court said Friday.

Ireland lodged an application with the European Court of Human Rights over the 2023 law on Wednesday, arguing that some of its provisions are "not compatible with the European Convention" of Human Rights, it said.

The contentious legislation, passed by the UK parliament in September, creates a truth and recovery commission offering amnesty to British security personnel and paramilitaries if they cooperate with its enquiries.

It has been condemned by families of those who died during three decades of violence over British rule in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s, known as the Troubles, which saw more than 3,500 people killed.

All Northern Irish political parties and the Irish government in Dublin oppose the legislation, while Europe's leading rights watchdog, the Council of Europe, has also expressed "serious concerns".

But the law, formally called the UK Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023, has been welcomed by groups representing British veterans from the period.

The ECHR rules on potential violations of the European Convention on Human Rights, which has been ratified by 46 countries including the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The court has ruled in one previous case opposing both states, finding in 1978 that the United Kingdom's handling of detainees in Northern Ireland amounted to "inhuman and degrading treatment".
The government of war-torn Sudan has informed IGAD it is suspending its membership in the east Africa bloc, the foreign ministry loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said Saturday.

Khartoum had already announced on Tuesday that it was freezing relations with IGAD for inviting paramilitary chief Mohamed Hamdan Daglo -- at war with Burhan for nine months -- to a summit in Uganda that discussed the Sudan conflict.

Sudan "is facing one of the fastest unfolding crises globally", the United Nations humanitarian agency, OCHA, says, with more than 7.4 million people displaced and more than half the population needing humanitarian assistance.

The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, an analyst group, puts the death toll at more than 13,000.

In a statement, Sudan's foreign ministry said Burhan sent a letter on Saturday to President Ismail Omar Guelleho of Djibouti, current chair of the bloc, "to inform him of the Sudanese government decision suspending its membership in this organisation".

At its summit on Thursday, IGAD reiterated its call for "an immediate and unconditional ceasefire" in the "unjust war affecting the people" of Sudan.

The bloc also expressed "continued readiness to offer its good offices to facilitate an all-inclusive peace process", and again called for a face-to-face meeting between the two sides.

A final communique from the extraordinary assembly gave the generals two weeks to meet.

Sudan's foreign ministry said it was this item, placed on the agenda without Sudan's approval, which led it to the further step of suspending its membership.

The ministry also accused the summit communique of violating Sudan's sovereignty and "wounding the sentiments of victims of rebel militia atrocities", a reference to Daglo's Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Both sides have been accused of war crimes, including the indiscriminate shelling of residential areas, torture and arbitrary detention of civilians.

The RSF has also been accused of ethnically motivated mass killings, rampant looting and rapes.

IGAD, in parallel with the United States and Saudi Arabia, has repeatedly attempted to mediate between the two warring generals, but to no avail.

Daglo toured several African capitals from late December in his first foreign trip since the start of the war last April. It is part of a strategy analysts see as a bid for international legitimacy and is likely linked to the United Arab Emirates.

In Addis Ababa, Daglo signed a declaration with Sudan's former civilian prime minister Abdalla Hamdok, who also attended the IGAD summit.

The RSF appears to have been gaining new ground in recent months, with little resistance from the army.
Last week, the Federal Court of Bellinzona confronted Ousman Sonko with a note seized from his suitcase on 26 January 2017 when he was arrested in Switzerland. After denying owning any notes throughout the entire proceedings, the former Minister of Interior in the Gambia admitted to the Swiss court that the note presented to him was his.

This piece of evidence was in connection to the April 2016 protest.

On April 14 2016, members of the United Democratic Party (UDP), the largest opposition party in The Gambia, staged a protest, leading to the detention of about 27 people, and torture of party members. Part of their demands was electoral reforms. Solo Sandeng, youth secretary of UDP, who was identified as the leader of the protest, died as a result of the brutal torture he was subjected to.

Excerpts from Sonkos note include: The president gave me a directive to harass and even kill the leader of the opposition and I refused to do so because I want to see a free and fair election; During the April 16 incident [a follow-up demonstration demanding for Sandengs release], he [Yahya Jammeh, president of The Gambia from July 1994 to January 2017] gave me a directive for the police to shoot and kill the opposition; The directive [asked] for those arrested by police to be handed over to the NIA [National Intelligence Agency], which I did. I fled for my safety.

Explaining a partial admission

Sonko tried to explain why he never before admitted to writing the note. What I said was there was no document in a suitcase. The documents I saw were not in a suitcase. That is what I said, he told the court. But there were more questions than there were answers, as the accused told the court the contents of the note were not entirely true. This I prepared after I was in office and it was to be used for my asylum [request to Switzerland]. But the content is not what transpired, he said. And the next morning, he had more questions to answer from the court.

You said to the presiding judge only part one [of the note] was correct. Why are we hearing this for the first time? Why never mention this at all? the prosecutor asked.

I was exercising my right to remain silent. I knew at one point I will say what I want to say before the courts. That is why I remained silent.

The prosecutor further asked the accused why he lied in his asylum application, but the question was rejected by the president of the court, on the basis that it was not a matter the court was investigating.

Why should there be in those notes passages that you formulated [some that were] intentionally wrong?, the prosecutor rephrased.

Im not going to answer that.

I ask myself how is it possible that parts of the content that you say is wrong actually correspond to our investigations, to investigations by the federal police, statements of witnesses, the TRRC [the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission that took place in Gambia from 2018 to 2021]? To me you have knowledge of what happened, the prosecutor insisted.

Did you receive orders to shoot and kill in 2016 or later? the defence lawyer asked his client.

No, Sonko replied.

On 14 April, did you receive any such order?

No.

Had you received the order for the protestors to be shot at and killed, would you follow that order?

No, never.

Out of court, when asked for comment on the partial acknowledgment of the accused about the notes, this did not seem like a matter the defence team was ready to dwell on. Lets just take it that if that order was given, it was never executed by Sonko. We all know that the police did not shoot and killed, said Philippe Currat, Sonkos defense lawyer.

To date, it is unknown why Sonko was relieved of his government duties in September 2016. There have been claims that Sonko and Jammeh did not have a happy ending, leading to him fleeing the country. But could it be linked to the April 2016 events? Parts of the note only explain how the accused fled the country for Senegal then Switzerland, not why. According to the defence, both the accused and people connected to him were receiving threatening messages by persons who were supposedly Junglers, Jammehs hitmen.

Tales of horrific torture

Hearings on the April 14, 2016 protest began with a witness, Modou Ngum, who was among those arrested, detained, tortured, and sentenced.

When the protesters were arrested and taken to the Police Intervention Unit, five of them  Solo Sandeng, Modou Ngum, Nogoi Njie, Ebrima Jabang and Kafu Bayo  were separated from the rest and taken to the NIA. Ngum testified that Sonko was one of the people who took them there.

They placed me on the table and tied me to the table. The Junglers came. They beat me up until I could not hear myself crying. They untied me and beat me on my arm. The mark is still here. They took me to the bahama grass [a drought-resistant grass also known as Bermuda grass]. They told me I mobilised people at Kombo South [in Southwest of the country]. They electrocuted my genitals, he recounted. I screamed, and they were laughing. They put my legs in cold water. They took me to the cell. From there they took me to the investigation panel.

Nogoi Njie is not alive to narrate her story before the court. (She did before the Truth Commission.) But Fatoumatta Jawara and Fatou Camara, both members of UDP who were arrested at the time, testified. A lot of human rights violations happened behind that scene that I would not want to explain. I was dumped in one place where I was in coma for days. I later found myself in a hospital bed. All my clothes were torn. My death was announced until my family had to arrange a funeral service for me, Fatoumata Jawara wailed heavily. According to Fatou Camara, Janjanbureh [a town 300 km east of Banjul, the capital city] was worse. They kept us in the dark, she told the court as she broke down.

Fatou Camara (left) and Fatoumata Jawara (blue headtie), at the Federal Court in Bellizone, Switzerland.  Mariam Sankanu / Justice Info

Was Sonko present?

Sonko denied allegations that he had knowledge of the tortures the witnesses were subjected to and denied giving any orders. Ngum told the court that he saw Sonko at the Police Intervention Unit when they were arrested, but Jawara and Camara could not confirm his presence there. On 14 April I was not at the PIU and I said it during proceedings. Several people have said today that they did not see me there, including Fatou Camara and Fatoumata Jawara, the accused stated. He also denied being part of any interrogation panel at the NIA. According to Ngum, Sonko and Yankuba Badjie, the director general of the NIA, had given instructions that they be given VIP treatment. The VIP treatment means we should be beaten.

I heard the Interior minister say anyone who plays with the President, you would be dinner for the vultures, Ngum testified.

Somebody who was not there, how can he give instructions? Sonko retorted. He referred to the the NIA 9 trial, where several former leaders of the NIA were sentenced to death in July 2022 in the Gambia. Ngum testified in this trial in 2018, Sonko said, and did not mention seeing him at the Intervention Unit the day they were arrested or that he had given instructions for them to be given VIP treatment.

The defence started to play a video in court. It shows the detained protesters at the NIA. The defence wanted to show that Sonko was not at the NIA investigation panel. But the victims took offence, as it is a video that shows their victimisation. And the court asked that the video be stopped even before the majority in the room could notice. We just wanted to prove that Sonko was not at that panel that Modou Ngum said he saw him. If you watch the video, you see that Sonko is not there, the defence lawyer told us during a court break.

The accused was informed that the video was already in the courts file. He said he was shocked when he watched the victims interrogation video. I could not watch it for a second time because we are all Gambians and we are all brothers and sisters. And I was also touched by Fatoumata Jawaras last statement yesterday. But to sum it all I was really shocked, and it was wrong and it was unacceptable.

Solo Sandengs death

Solo Sandeng was a prominent figure in the UDP. He led the protest in 2016. Following his arrest, about 21 members of UDP who demanded that Sandeng be released dead or alive, were arrested, including the party leader, Ousainu Darboe. They were detained at Mile 2 prison. (They would only be released after Jammehs fall in early 2017.) In a June 2016 court affidavit the State admitted that Sandeng was dead. He was said to have died from shock and respiratory failure.

Yankuba Badjie, former NIA director, Sheikh Omar Jeng, former NIA operations director, Baboucarr Sallah, Masireh Tamba, and Lamin Darboe, were sentenced to death in July 2022 by a Gambian court for their involvement in the death of Solo Sandeng. The doctor who forged the death certificate of the victim, Lamin Lang Sangyang, was given ten years in prison for forgery. Following the completion of their trial  known as the NIA 9 trial  a state funeral and tribute service was held in Sandengs honour on January 10, 2023. His body was finally handed over to his family six years after the murder.

According to Sonko, he learnt of the death of Sandeng on April 16, 2016. To him, the protesters were not political prisoners. They violated the laws of The Gambia and were arrested, and sentenced accordingly, he said. On April 14, 2016, Solo Sandeng deliberately organised a demonstration without requiring a valid permit from the IGP [Inspector General of the Police]. And the demonstration, as I understand it from Modou Ngum, was supposed to include other opposition parties as well. They refused to participate because Modou Ngum never had a permit to do so. Even some of the UDP members who were with him in the bureau [of the UDP] also refused to participate and went home because they all knew that it was unlawful to plan a demonstration without a permit.

Law and order

One of the prosecutors confronted Sonko with a June 1, 2016 video, where he made a remark at Yahya Jammehs Meet the People tour in Tallinding, a neighbourhood in the capital city. The court did not allow for the whole video to be played as there was already a translation done in German.

If anyone does it [a demonstration of any kind], that person would regret it, Sonko declared at the meeting. I think what I said in this particular meeting in Tallinding should be put in context, explained Sonko in court. My statement has not caused what happened on the 14th of April 2016. It was in reaction to what happened on 14th of April 2016, he said, also referring to a students demonstration in 2000 that resulted in the deaths of ten or eleven people and in massive destruction of public and private properties. That trauma still remains in a lot of families, the accused stated. So in other words, the emphasis here was law and order. But it was not meant to deny people permit as there was no evidence to suggest that after this protest people were denied permit.

Fatoumatta Sandeng is the daughter of Solo Sandeng and one of the plaintiffs in the Swiss case, although she is not a witness. The first time I sat in the courtroom and we started talking about this [April 14 event] and Sonko sat there, it was really surreal. I mean, you had to process a lot. Even now, theres a lot to process but its amazing that this is going on and victims are facing Sonko. You know, confronting him with questions and things that he has done and you see the power that you possess and how powerless a perpetrator is, thats history in the making, she said out of court. We all know that Solo went out to protest because it was the only option to be heard. He was ready to face the consequences of being taken to the courts but not to be killed.
Moscow will be asked to explain at the UN on Monday what has happened to thousands of Ukrainian children believed to have been forcibly sent to Russia since its 2022 invasion.

Kyiv estimates that 20,000 Ukrainian children have been forcibly deported to Russia.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2023 on the war crime accusation of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child -- a panel of 18 independent experts -- is set over two days to examine Russia's record, as part of a regular review.

They want to know how many children have been "evacuated" to Russia or within Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine.

They also want to know what Moscow has done to protect "the right of such children to preserve their identity, including nationality, name and family relations".

Their lengthy list of concerns was sent to Moscow in the first half of 2023.

- Return mechanism idea -

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and says it wants to protect these children from the fighting.

Only around 400 children have so far been repatriated.

Such placements are arranged at the children's "request and with their consent," Russia said in a written response sent in October and shown to media by the UN on Friday.

It does not specify the total number of children affected, but said they "included children from national residential institutions for orphans and children without parental care (about 2,000 in total)" and children with Ukrainian citizenship.

It also said that in the second quarter of 2023, some 46,886 Ukrainian children acquired Russian citizenship.

Kateryna Rashevska, a legal expert with the Regional Center for Human Rights, a Ukrainian NGO, hopes the UN committee will call for an "international legal mechanism" to identify and return the children.

"The international community is ready to do something but there is a need to do it faster," she told AFP.

At the current rate, "we need another 90 years in order to repatriate only already-identified Ukrainian children".

The ICC has also levelled similar charges to Putin's against Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.

Russia, which is not a member of the ICC, insists the warrant against Putin is "void".

- Broader crackdown context -

The UN will also seek answers on what Moscow is doing to remove obstacles to children exercising their right to freedom of association and assembly, and to ensure that children are not punished for taking part in demonstrations, particularly against the war in Ukraine.

Russian lawyer Olga Sadovskaya, who heads the Crew Against Torture human rights organisation, said Russia had seen an increase in violence "in every part of life", which therefore affects children.

She noted a sharp increase in domestic violence and the severity of brutality when people are arrested.

In a report sent to the UN committee, the NGO Human Rights Watch said it was concerned about children's freedom of expression, their right to freedom of information, and discrimination linked to gender identity and sexual orientation.

Rachel Denber, deputy director of HRW's Europe and Central Asia division, told AFP this demonstrated how the "broader crackdown on rights in Russia has an impact on children's rights as well", noting how youngsters had faced "retaliation" for voicing critical opinions on Russia's war in Ukraine.

The UN committee also wants to discuss the illegal or arbitrary detention of children, corporal punishment, and measures taken to preserve the cultural and linguistic identity of indigenous children.

The experts want to know what Moscow is doing to combat certain "harmful practices" in the North Caucasus, such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, abductions for forced marriages and polygamy.
Rep. Mark Pocan of Wisconsins 2nd Congressional District endorsed Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Katrina Shankland, D-Stevens Point, for the Democratic primary 3rd Congressional District race Monday.

Pocan, a Democrat, called for other Democrats to rally behind Shankland as the candidate to represent the Democratic Party in the upcoming general election.

Katrina has a strong track record of not only winning elections, but delivering results for working families and seniors, Pocan said in his endorsement. Democrats must unite around the strongest candidate, and thats why Im proud to endorse Katrina Shankland for Congress.

Shankland faces Rebecca Cooke and Eric Wilson for the 3rd Congressional District Democratic party primary race. The primary winner will run against Republican incumbent Rep. Derrick Van Orden for the seat.

Pocan has served Wisconsins 2nd Congressional District since 2013 after Tammy Baldwin gave up her seat to run for Senate.

Partisan primary elections for Congress will take place Aug. 13, with the general election Nov. 5.
The captivating JTBC romance drama, "Welcome to Samdalri," directed by Cha Young Hoon of "When the Camellia Blooms," bid farewell on January 21, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt storytelling.

Starring Ji Chang Wook as Jo Yong Pil and Shin Hye Sun as Jo Sam Dal, the drama achieved its highest ratings at the conclusion, marking the successful end of its run.

Cast Expresses Gratitude and Warmth in Farewell Messages

As the curtains closed, the cast of "Welcome to Samdalri" took a moment to express their heartfelt thanks and reflections on their journey.

Lead actor Ji Chang Wook conveyed his happiness in portraying Jo Yong Pil, expressing gratitude for the viewers who watched and connected with the drama.

His words reflected the warmth that "Welcome to Samdalri" brought to the audience, creating a memorable experience.

Shin Hye Sun extended her thanks to the entire team behind the scenes, recognizing the hard work of actors, director, scriptwriter, and all staff members.

She hoped that the drama provided a moment of respite for everyone and wished for happiness to prevail among the viewers.

YOU MIGHT ALSO INTERESTED IN: Shin Hye Sun Widens Horizon Actress To Play Role With Dissociative Identity Disorder In New Drama

Behind-the-Scenes Bliss and Bittersweet Goodbyes

Kim Mi Kyung, who portrayed Jo Sam Dals mother Go Mi Ja, shared her sentiments, describing the experience as a beautiful and happy dream on Jeju Island.

She expressed gratitude to her fellow actors and the viewers, adding a special mention to the haenyeo sisters who endured challenging conditions during filming.

Jo Sam Dals father, Seo Hyun Cheol, reminisced about the drama as a source of healing and warmth.

While expressing sadness about the end, he hoped that the story of "Welcome to Samdalri" would endure in the hearts of the audience.

Fond Farewells and Hopes for the Future

Yoo Oh Sung, who portrayed Jo Yong Pils father Jo Sang Tae, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on a project that unfolded beautiful life stories.

His words reflected a deep appreciation for the shared experiences during filming.

Shin Dong Mi, playing Jo Jin Dal, bid farewell to her character and expressed sadness at parting.

She hoped that the energetic and just character of Jin Dal would resonate with viewers and wished everyone an energetic and happy new year.

Legacy and Appreciation: Looking Forward to 2024

As the "Welcome to Samdalri" cast shared their farewells, the memories created on Jeju Island echoed in their reflections.

Each message conveyed a sense of appreciation for the journey and a hope that the drama's impact would endure into the future.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Welcome To Samdalri Episode 14-15: Shin Hye Sun Receives Huge Blessing

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Michelle Williams.
People enter the public coroner's inquest in Melfort, Sask. on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The province is expected to provide information about how it responded to a mass stabbing on a Saskatchewan First Nation as a coroners inquest enters its second week. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Liam Richards
The Rohr Chabad House at UW-Madison hopes a proposed five-story expansion can help alleviate two persistent space crunches in Downtown Madison: one largely within its own facilities, the other in off-campus student housing stock.

The Chabad Houses first expansion opened in 2018 after a yearslong process that involved demolishing a historic home. Now its considering a towering addition to its current building that will overlook Peace Park on Gilman Street, near State Street. The proposed expansion will require the demolition of another aging home next door, which Chabad leadership says has been poorly kept up.

Driving the need for the expansion is an increasing number of Jewish UW-Madison students seeking services at Chabad, especially during weekly Shabbat meals, the High Holidays and Passover. Events often require meals to be served in multiple shifts with additional seating outdoors. For Rosh Hashanah last fall, the start of the Jewish year, Rabbi Mendel Matusof said, registration for two dinners, which each served 300 students, was full days before the event.

There were probably at least 300, 400, 500 more students who couldnt come because they probably waited until the last minute, Matusof said. (Hosting) two dinners in the same space on the same evening is a logistical nightmare ... we definitely need the space, and thats just in terms of the major events. And then in general, as a community has grown, we need more space.

Approximately 10% of UW-Madison students are Jewish, about 4,200 undergraduates and 800 graduate students. UW-Madisons population of Jewish students is about 12% of the states Jewish population of 42,000, with more than half living in the greater Milwaukee and Madison areas.

Details of the plan are fluid  while the proposed number of floors is five, that could change, Matusof said. Preliminary plans include a 7,000-square-foot main hall, a library that could double as a sanctuary for prayer services, staff offices and a meeting room.

Matusof said the plan includes an undetermined number of housing units on the top two floors. They wouldnt be exclusively for college students who are Jewish, but the units would be designed for students who want to keep kosher. That includes constructing a kosher kitchen that allows for the complete separation of meat and dairy products, and having two prep spaces and more than one oven, sink and dishwasher, Matusof said.

Theres nothing like that in Madison  there are no apartment rentals that have kitchens that are designed with kosher in mind, and wed like to do so that students who keep kosher will be able to live near that community and have the kitchen that accommodates their religious needs, Matusof said.

The timeline isnt set yet, Matusof said. Ideally, Chabad would start construction as early as 2025, but only if it receives city approvals and has raised the money it needs by that time. For the expansion on the northeast side of the building, Chabad purchased the property in 2012 but didnt get the green light until 2016.

One of Chabads benefactors donated the adjacent property where the expansion would be built two years ago, Matusof said.

About two miles southwest, Chabad of Madison  a sister organization to the Chabad at UW-Madison overseen by Matusofs parents, Rabbi Yona and Faygie Matusof, and his brother and sister-in-law, Rabbi Avremel and Mushkie Matusof  is also expanding after outgrowing its current Regent Street location. The two-story, 15,000-square-foot building will include a synagogue, a commercial kosher kitchen and a library.

Increasing interest

When Chabad Student President and UW-Madison senior Ruth Tsesis started at UW-Madison in 2020, it was a difficult time  the COVID-19 pandemic was raging, and only a few dozen students showed up at Shabbat dinners on Fridays.

Now, the entire room is filled, Tsesis said. With a majority of Jewish students reporting having experienced or witnessed some form of antisemitism both before and after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, Tsesis said more students are seeking connection in their Jewish community.

As a senior, Tsesis likely wont see Chabads expansion come to fruition. But itll help solve the logistical issues student volunteers and Mendel Matusofs wife, Henya, currently run into when preparing and serving meals, and will allow Chabad to serve more students.

Its a place where you dont have to explain yourself and everyone understands, she said. The amount of students that we want to serve, that want to come, sometimes, (the facilities are) just not enough. We do our best to make it work.
Monday, January 22, 2024 - A middle-aged South African lady has been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of her father.

She is believed to have hired killers to eliminate her father - a senior manager.

He was shot dead by unknown gunmen on December 28, 2023.

The gunmen stormed her residence and shot him dead, even after he handed over some unknown amount of money to them.

Preliminary investigations showed that she might have paid the killers to murder her father in cold blood.

See her photos below.













The Kenyan DAILY POST.
Monday, January 22, 2024

- Azimio One Kenya Party leader, Raila Odinga, has dismissed claims that the opposition coalition is on the verge of collapse due to divisions.

Addressing the public in Lamu on Monday during the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party recruitment drive, Raila termed these narratives, circulated in local dailies, as both false and regrettable.

There is no truth to the rumours propagated by certain sections of the media. Azimio remains robust and is not facing any threat of disintegration, Raila clarified.

The ODM supremo reassured supporters that differing opinions on certain issues within Azimio do not equate to a breakdown of the coalition.

There may be sometimes disagreements of opinions on one issue or another but that does not mean disintegration, Raila added.

In addition, Raila stressed that Azimio has maintained its solidarity since the 2022 elections and remains committed to its mission of liberating the country from what he terms tyranny and irresponsibility.

Our vision for liberation and responsible governance remains unwavering, he affirmed.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Monday, January 22, 2024  A Christian school teacher has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly poisoning her husband while she had an affair.

Sarah Scheffer, 37, an art and design teacher at Calvary Lutheran High School in Jefferson County in Missouri, was caught after her husband set up a hidden camera that captured her adding a toxic plant into his smoothie, officials said.

She was first charged last week with first-degree domestic assault after her husband told police he had been ill for about six weeks, police said.

She has since been charged with first-degree attempted murder and armed criminal action, according to a probable cause statement viewed by The Post.

Authorities were notified by the victim that he believed a period of unexplained illnesses were in fact an intentional act of poisoning, Jefferson City police said.

The husband described eight occurrences in which Scheffer provided a beverage or food that had an odd taste and shortly after ingesting he experienced extreme fatigue, confusion, blurred vision, severe cotton mouth, and nausea, the probable cause statement says.

He told authorities that a drink she gave him on Dec. 31 had a bitter taste  and that when he asked her about it, she stated she urinated in it and added an industrial strength adhesive into it, according to the filing.

After Scheffer later denied adding anything to the smoothie, her husband installed a surveillance camera in the kitchen, where on Jan. 16 he observed a bag labelled lily of the valley on the table.





Scheffer admitted to adding a root of the plant into a blender while preparing a smoothie, according to the probable cause statement.

The defendant admitted doing this with the intent to cause the victim harm, it said, adding that she also acknowledged that she knew that ingesting the root could kill him.

All parts of Lily of the Valley contain cardiac glycosides, which slow down the heart and cause irregular rhythms, according to the National Capital Poison Center, which categorizes the plant as having major toxicity.

Scheffer said she is in a relationship with someone who lives in Pakistan and has conducted Google searches for flights to Pakistan, the probable cause statement said.

Calvary Lutheran High School said it was notified by police on Wednesday of a criminal matter pertaining to an employee who has since been placed on leave.

The alleged conduct was outside of the employees association with the school and did not involve a student or any other school personnel, Calvary Lutheran Executive Director John Christman told ABC17 News in a statement.

As a Christian community, Calvary Lutheran High School believes in protecting the well-being of all individuals who are part of our programs and we seek to respond in a caring and sensitive manner to everyone in our school community. With this in mind, consistent action has been taken in response to the notification, he added.

Scheffer taught two classes at the school, where she was considered a part-time employee, Christman told the outlet.

She was a beloved teacher and did a wonderful job of growing the art skills of her students, he told NBC News on Friday.

She was a well-loved teacher at our school. We felt and had seen the fruits of her investment in the students. She was able to encourage them to produce and always seemed to be engaged for all the right reasons, he told the outlet.





Scheffers father said the charges came totally out of the blue and dont match the daughter he knows  a beloved artist and teacher who volunteers to raise money for Third World health efforts.

Shes a decent person. I dont think she could have done this, but I guess thatll just have to come out at trial, Marcus Blaskie told NBC News about his daughter.

Scheffer is being held on a no-bond arrest warrant at the Cole County Jail.

No hearings have been set in the case as of Monday morning, Jan. 22.


Monday, January 22, 2024 - Chief Justice Martha Koome has defied calls from some sections of Kenyans who opposed her suggestion to meet President William Ruto to end the impasse affecting the Executive and Judiciary

For the last month, Koome has been walking on landmines after Ruto accused the Judiciary of being corrupt.

To resolve the stalemate between the Executive and Judiciary, Koome on Monday met the Head of State at State House.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Attorney General Justin Muturi, and Solicitor Shadrack Mose were among those who attended the meeting.

Ruto has been accusing the Judiciary led by Koome of being corrupt and issuing orders that are against his government like stopping his universal health scheme and housing levy.

On her part, Koome has been defending the judiciary, urging Ruto to table evidence of the corrupt judges.

On the other hand, opposition supremo, Raila Odinga, has been opposing the meeting between Ruto and Koome, saying this will affect the independence of the Judiciary as enshrined in the constitution.

The Kenyan DAILY POST


Sunday, January 21, 2024  Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, suspended his 2024 US presidential bid on Sunday, January 21 after failing to gain enough support in the GOP field in favour of Trump.

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  more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it, DeSantis announced in a video address.

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. he added

DeSantis said although he has had disagreements with former President Donald Trump, he is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden.

He said he is endorsing Trump because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear that rival Nikki Haley represents.

DeSantis' move comes after his campaign polled low numbers in New Hampshire  averaging in the single digits against Trump and Haley  and his super PAC Never Back Down cancelling events before the primary on Tuesday.

Watch the video below




Monday, January 22, 2024 - Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and his successor, William Ruto, on Sunday had a chance to share the same podium during the swearing-in Ceremony of DRC President-elect, Felix Tshisekedi, in Kinshasa.

The two leaders, who have been at loggerheads since the 2022 General Election, did not show any signs of animosity as they witnessed the historic event.

However, a video clip that went viral on social media showed Uhuru and Ruto sitting a few meters apart.

A section of observers claimed the duo was seemingly ignoring each other.

The two were listening to speeches using earphones.

Uhuru and Ruto fell out after the latter declared his intention to run for president in 2022, against the wishes of the former, who had endorsed Raila Odinga as his preferred successor.

The rift between the two widened after Ruto's allies accused Uhuru of orchestrating a plot to sideline him from the government and sabotage his presidential bid.

Here is the video of the son of Jomo ignoring Ruto during the Tshikendi swearing-in






Sunday, January 21, 2024  Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with skin cancer just months after being treated for breast cancer, it is reported.

The Duchess of York, who was married to Prince Andrew, the second son of Queen Elizabeth, has had a mole removed from her body which tests have since found to be a malignant melanoma which is the most serious type of skin cancer.

It comes after the 64-year-old underwent a breast operation for cancer last year.

She reportedly had a number of moles removed while undergoing breast reconstruction surgery last year, one of which was found to be malignant.

She received the distressing news just days after Christmas.

The grandmother is reported to have spent the last few weeks in Austria after spending some time with the Royal Family at Sandringham over Christmas.

She will undergo further tests to determine whether it has spread.

A spokesman for Sarah, Duchess of York told the Sun: "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.

"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 news comes days after it was revealed that both King Charles III and Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, are to undergo medical procedures.

Kate was taken into hospital last week to have planned abdominal surgery which will leave her at The Clinic in London for ten to 14 days, and requiring up to three months of rest and recovery at home.

The same day Kate underwent her surgery, it was announced that King Charles would have treatment for an enlarged prostate in the next week.


Monday, January 22, 2024  A father-of-five allegedly shot his wife and three adult daughters to death inside the familys home in a Chicago suburb Sunday morning, Jan. 21, according to police.

The four women were fatally wounded in what officials described as a domestic-related shooting inside a home on 173rd Street in Tinley Park just before 11:30 a.m., according to Tinley Park Public Safety and ABC 7 Chicago.

A man inside the home reportedly called 911 to report the mass slaughter and was taken into custody at the scene, according to cops and a dispatcher call.

A male subject said his wife was shot. The line disconnected. He wasnt really cooperative, the dispatcher said.

The dispatcher later called the scene a massacre when requesting more units.

When officers arrived, they found the bodies of the four women identified by the Cook County medical examiner as Majeda Kassem, 59, Halema Kassem, 25, Zahia Kassem, 25, and Hanan Kassem, 24, according to the local station. Each had suffered gunshot wounds.





They took a man, who is believed to be the husband and father of the victims, into custody at the scene, where they also recovered a firearm, according to the local reports.

A neighbor who knew the family  made up of the husband and wife, the three adult daughters, and two grown sons  said the news of the grisly crime was shocking to wake up to Sunday morning, given that the victims and alleged killer were such a good family that had a bright future.

My daughter knows them, Charlotte Vaitkus told ABC 7. She went to school with the oldest son, and she employed the twin sisters. She always talked about how they were all very intelligent, and they had very high goals in life.

Some of the children had dreams of becoming pharmacists or doctors, she added.

There were no prior law enforcement calls to the home, Village Manager Patt Carr said.


Monday, January 22, 2024  A Google software engineer has been charged with murder in Santa Clara, California, after he allegedly beat his wife to death at their home.

In a statement, Santa Clara police said that officers found 27-year-old Liren Chen standing in the bedroom, with his wife's body lying behind him on the floor. The wife, Xuanyi Yu had severe blunt force injuries to her head and Chen's right hand was "extremely swollen and purple".

Police also said that he had blood on his clothing, arms, legs, and hands, along with scratches on his arm.

The officers discovered the attack scene after they responded to a 911 call from an acquaintance of Liren Chen at a home located at Valley Way on January 16 around 11 am (local time).

He expressed concern about Liren Chen and his wife, who was also a Google engineer.

He said that Chen was refusing to answer his phone or his door. He also said that he could see Chen inside his home "motionless on his knees" with his "hands in the air" and "staring blankly".

The 27-year-old's arraignment was delayed until Jan. 22 because Chen remains hospitalized, court records said.







"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 in a press release. "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."

"We are shocked and deeply saddened by what has happened to Xuanyi," Google spokesperson Bailey Tomson said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Our thoughts are with her family at this time, and we will work to provide support to them and to co-workers who are processing this tragic news."

Both Liren Chen and Xuanyi Yu studied in China's Tsinghua University, and at the University of California, San Diego, according to their LinkedIn pages.
One man died and another was injured in a snowmobile crash east of Mauston on Wednesday morning.

Scott Williams, 60, of Chippewa Falls, died from injuries sustained in the two-vehicle crash on a snowmobile trail near Noe Road roughly 250 yards from its intersection with Highway 12-16. Mark Sibber, 53, of Cadott, is at a Madison hospital being treated for injuries.

Both men were unresponsive when responders arrived. Sibber was transported by UW Med Flight to the Madison hospital. Williams was pronounced dead at the scene. The Juneau County Sheriffs Office and the state Department of Natural Resources are currently investigating the crash.

The Adams County Sheriffs Office and Mauston fire and ambulance staff assisted the Juneau County Sheriffs Office and DNR at the scene, as well as the Juneau County Coroners Office at an area gas station.
Monday, January 22, 2024 - Kinyoro Member of County Assembly, Andrew Kibet, who hails from Trans Nzoia County, was left with an egg on his face after he was heckled during a funeral while defending President William Rutos policies.

The youthful MCA had just taken to the stage where he drummed up support for the Kenya Kwanza regime.

However, things did not go as planned as the residents started shouting him down and asking him to leave the podium.

The funeral emcee tried to intervene and calm the irate residents who were determined to see the politician leave the meeting.

It is my work to protect my President. MP Caleb Amisi (Saboti) respect the President of Kenya, the defiant MCA stated while directing his anger at Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, an ardent supporter of Raila Odinga.

Kibet attacked area leaders whom he accused of bad-mouthing Ruto and ruining the Head of States reputation among locals.

The MCA, in particular, called out Amisi for this.

He went on to emphasize that Ruto is the President and must be respected.

Those in the background could be heard accusing the MCA of failing to be honest about the State of the Nation, particularly the health of the countrys economy.

On his part, Amisi accused the MCA of attacking him.

Amisi added that Kibet arrived at the scene with a group of rowdy youth to disrupt the function.

The people of Saboti have told those being sent by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to frustrate me to try everywhere.

"Trying to mobilise and incite a peace-loving community against me will not work, he stated.





Amisi had earlier warned President Ruto against giving false promises to the people of Saboti.

The quickest and the surest way of losing it today is for anyone to try and defend Ruto.



Sabaots told off their MCA who tried playing the UDA narrative. pic.twitter.com/rEYmnU0HbY  Kulo Conrad (@ConradKulo) January 22, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.
Monday, January 22, 2024 - The Federal government of Nigeria in its bid to purge increasing cases of fake degrees has banned degrees from Kenya and Uganda.

In a statement issued by Education Minister Tahir Mamman, the government stated that Kenya and Uganda have been issuing fake degrees which have flooded Nigerias job market.

The Minister said Kenya and Uganda will join Benin and Togo which have also been banned from Nigeria.

We are not just going to stop at Togo and Benin; we are going to extend the dragnet to countries like Uganda and Kenya where such (fraudulent) institutions have been set up, he said in an interview with a local media outlet.

They dont really have physical sites; they are just very clandestine in their operations. But we need to protect our employers and the integrity of our qualifications.

It all blew up when Umar Audu, a reporter for the Daily Nigerian newspaper, published an expose revealing how he had obtained a four-year degree from a Benin university in six weeks.

While some have criticized the move, saying it will punish legitimate degree holders, the minister said he has little sympathy for the affected students, some of whom are part of the problem.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Monday, January 22, 2024 - Mumias East Member of Parliament, Peter Salasya, has officially announced that he will vie for the Kakamega gubernatorial seat during the 2027 Presidential election.

In a statement on Sunday, the youthful lawmaker said after thorough consultations and deliberations, he has decided to vie for the top county seat in the coming elections.

"It's now official that I will be vying for Governor," Salasya wrote on his Facebook page.

Salasya, elected on the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), will square it out with the incumbent and his political enemy, Fernandes Barasa of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party

The outspoken lawmaker will also have stiff competition from Senator Boni Khalwale, who during the last elections, shelved his ambition to support UDA secretary general Cleophas Malala.

Salasya has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons.

He was recently arrested for slapping an MCA at a function in Kakamega.

He is currently out on a Sh 50,000 bond.

The Kenyan DAILY POST.
Monday, January 22, 2024 - Renowned city preacher, Victor Kanyari, has lashed out at President William Rutos Government while preaching to his congregants at his church along Kangundo Road.

Kanyari noted that the Government has failed to deliver the promises made during campaigns and urged his followers to vote out the UDA regime during the next general elections.

Wangapi wanasema hii serikali iende nyumbani 2027?. Inua mkono Kanyari posed.

Majority of his congregants raised their hands and agreed that Ruto should go home for mismanaging the country.

Iende nyumbani they responded, an indication that the ground had shifted.

President Ruto has been facing a lot of resistance from church leaders for failing to deliver on the campaign promises.

Kanyari now joins the long list of pastors who want Ruto to be a one-term President.

Blogger Gabriel Oguda shared the video of pastor Kanyari trashing the UDA regime and wrote, These days, Mt Kenya pastors take a head count LIVE on television ndio Ruto asiseme ati ni Uhuru Kenyatta ndio amelipa makanisa to finish him. Bwana, the fear is gone everywhere, and we will be there no matter what.

Watch the video.

These days, Mt Kenya pastors take a head count LIVE on television ndio Ruto asiseme ati ni Uhuru Kenyatta ndio amelipa makanisa to finish him. Bwana, the fear is gone everywhere, and we will be there no matter what. pic.twitter.com/al7wP1RfgZ  Gabriel Oguda (@gabrieloguda) January 22, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.


Sunday, January 21, 2024  Pope Francis on Sunday called for the release of hostages, including six nuns, who were kidnapped on a bus in Haiti after the Caribbean nation was plagued by gang violence.

Gunmen on Friday, January 19, 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 struggle 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.




Monday, January 22, 2024 - The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party has summoned Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed after he missed a key party event that was chaired by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Through ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, the Suna East lawmaker was accused of skipping crucial party meetings, including public rallies.

Junet was required to respond to the summons within seven days, failing which he would face disciplinary action.

At its sitting of Wednesday, January 10, 2024, the Central Committee of the party noted with concern your continuous absence of its meetings and meetings of other critical organs, including the Party Parliamentary Group, over the past one and a half years.

"By resolution of the committee, you are required to provide a comprehensive explanation for this state of affairs within the next seven days, the show cause letter signed by Sifuna read.

However, the move by ODM has attracted criticism from key leaders allied to the Raila-led party.

Former Mombasa governor and ODM deputy party leader Hassan Ali Joho termed the move by the party to summon Junet as unnecessary and uncalled for.

"Completely unnecessary and uncalled for!" Joho said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Monday, January 22, 2024 - An outspoken Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) senator has poured cold water on Mondays meeting between President William Ruto and Chief Justice Martha Koome.

Koome and Ruto met at State House Nairobi and the meeting was also attended by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, Attorney General Justin Muturi, and Solicitor Shadrack Mose.

The meeting comes at a time when Ruto has been launching missiles against the Judiciary, accusing it of being rotten and corrupt.

However, Migori Senator Eddy Oketch said the meeting marked the beginning of dark days

Oketch urged Koome that she took herself to the lions den and said in the coming days, Ruto would eat the Judiciary alive.

Chief Justice Martha Koome should know meeting Ruto at State House is akin to going to the Lion's Den hoping to sweet-talk it into respecting your space.

"The stage is set for the hostile takeover, won't be long before Ruto eats the Judiciary alive.

"Welcome back to the dark days, Oketch wrote on his X platform on Monday.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Monday, January 22, 2024 - Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was among thousands of dignitaries who graced the swearing-in ceremony of DRC President-elect Felix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa on Sunday.

The son of Jomo, who has been enjoying his retirement quietly, arrived in Kinshasa on Saturday aboard a Ugandan Airlines flight.

Upon arriving at N'Djili International Airport, Uhuru was welcomed like a head of state with everyone wanting to get a glimpse of Kenyas fourth President.

Here are photos of Uhuru when he arrived in Kinshasa for the swearing-in of Tshisekedi

















The Kenyan DAILY POST.


Monday, January 22, 2024  A U.S. Army officer and fitness influencer has died by suicide just days after she celebrated her daughter's 12th birthday.

On January 20, friends of Staff Sergeant Michelle Young, 34, shared the sad news that she had taken her life.

Days earlier, Young shared a post celebrating her daughter Gracie's birthday with her 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.'

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.'

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.

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 Young took her life.
Presented with a market study it feels is incomplete, the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission is considering going back to the drawing board.

The commission voted unanimously on Friday to form a committee to consider whether to seek revisions to the current study or start the process over.

Fridays hearing came after The Innovation Group last month completed a 111-page market study thats required by state law before the commission can consider any new horse racing tracks beyond the six license holders that currently exist in the state.

The $48,000 study, which concluded that Nebraska has no need for additional horse racing tracks, was roundly criticized by both commission members and industry officials.

Commissioner Jeff Galyen said the situation was pretty clear to him: the Legislature set out clear guidelines for what was supposed to be covered in a market study, and the study done by the Innovation Group did not pass muster.

The study that we have received to date does not meet all the requirements the Legislature laid out, he said.

Galyen said the study did a pretty good job assessing the casino market, but it fell particularly short when it came to assessing the horse racing side of things.

Tom Zitt, executive vice president of The Innovation Group, said the study lacked conclusions about horse racing because there is hardly any racing occurring at any of the tracks outside of Grand Island.

At this point, except for Fonner Park, theres nothing to analyze, Zitt said.

He said that none of the tracks provided his firm with any information about race dates or potential purse amounts, although he admitted that the company had not sought the information directly from the tracks and had instead requested it through the Racing and Gaming Commission.

The study also fell short when it came to measuring the potential socioeconomic consequences of new racetracks.

Rather than provide conclusions about potential socioeconomic effects, the study instead focused on providing benchmark data that could be used as a measure in the future.

Zitt said it was difficult to measure socioeconomic factors because casino gambling is so new in Nebraska and current operations are temporary.

Commission Chairman Dennis Lee asked Zitt if The Innovation Group could revise the study and present some of the missing elements if it got data it needed about racing days and purses.

Yes, if we could get all the proposed race dates and purse levels, Zitt said.

Members of the horse racing and casino industries had varying opinions on the study.

Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen, which owns the racetracks in Lincoln and Omaha, said there are more problems with the study than just a lack of data, noting what she said are a number of errors.

Because of that, she said she doesnt think allowing The Innovation Group to amend the study is sufficient.

It should be thrown out and you should start again, she said.

Lance Morgan, CEO of Ho-Chunk Inc., the parent company of WarHorse Gaming, said the study cannot be relied upon because there isnt enough data available on the casino market. He also suggested that The Innovation Group might have a conflict of interest because it has previously done business with the state of Iowa and existing casino owners in both Iowa and Nebraska.

But Brian Jorde, an attorney who represents Hastings Exposition and Racing, which is seeking to transfer its racing license from Hastings to a proposed new facility in Ogallala, said he believes the study fulfilled the statutory requirement to measure the gambling market as it exists now, and while it may need to be revised, it doesnt need to be thrown out and redone.

Theres no reason to act like nothing in this study is worthwhile, he said.

Commissioners did not decide who would serve on the committee, but said it will consist of two commissioners who will work with staff to either obtain supplemental details to add to the existing study or decide to solicit bids for a new study.

The commission is running up against time constraints, as the Legislature set Jan. 1, 2025, as a deadline by which a market study must be completed.

Photos: Sports betting kicks off in Nebraska
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I want to draw your attention to two fairly recent studies. One of these is the BIND study. I love it when studies use easy-to-remember acronyms because it really helps to keep them straight. The BIND study found that Many prolonged symptoms subsequent to benzodiazepine use and discontinuation  have been shown in a large survey of benzodiazepine users. Benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) has been proposed as a term to describe symptoms and associated diverse life consequences that may emerge during benzodiazepine use, tapering, and continue after benzodiazepine discontinuation. Not all people who take benzodiazepines will develop BIND, and risk factors for BIND remain to be evaluated.

This analysis showed that more than seventeen identified symptoms persisted for more than one year after discontinuation of benzodiazepines. This was independent of the well-known benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome, which can cause intractable seizures and be fatal. In studies going back as far as 1981, researchers Hallstrom and Lader found increased depression severity using the Hamilton scale in patients who were taken off benzodiazepines. Another study in 1987, carried out by researchers Smith and Wesson, my new favorite team, seemed to show that these symptoms resolved completely after six to twelve months. The new BIND study indicates otherwise. The persistent symptoms can include increased anxiety and depression, not unexpected, but also headache, dizziness, tinnitus, paresthesia, and even motor dysfunction. This would indicate that we should use extreme caution when prescribing these medications; is the risk of these potential long-term effects outweighed by the benefits to the patients quality of life? Then it got even more complicated.

There had been warning labels on benzodiazepines since the 1970s, finally saying: WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS. Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.

Deference had always been given to a physicians judgment in the use of these medications, but that changed in 2017 when the U.S. Department of Justice found it needed an excuse to prosecute doctors targeted by their proprietary AI, nicknamed The Beast. Prosecutions of physicians for prescribing dangerous medications in dangerous combinations and for ignoring the risk of addiction, overdose, and death quickly became common. The prosecution of physicians for choosing to prescribe a combination of approved medications in approved dosages to patients who had been seen and evaluated was something new. In the past, physicians were understood to have the right to prescribe according to their education, training, and experience, but this was no more.

States and the DEA were grappling with an opioid crisis, and they were convinced that what was taken by physicians as a warning to be cautious was, in fact, an absolute prohibition on combination therapy with these two classes of medication: opiates and benzodiazepines specifically. These prosecutions were well-publicized, with the government repeating over and over again that these were drug pushers in white coats and that they had abrogated their oath to do no harm. Physicians got the message, and the heavily publicized prosecutions worked perfectly for what we in the U.S. Marine Corps used to call a Russian warning shot. Shoot the first few guys, and that warns the rest. There was a rapid rush to deprescribe, with physicians tapering patients who had been stable for decades on their medication.

Now, the FDA has always acknowledged that Benzodiazepines are a class of medicines approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder, insomnia, seizures, social phobia, and panic disorder. Most benzodiazepines are recommended for periods of weeks or months to treat these disorders. However, the amount, frequency, and duration of treatment vary depending on the patient and the medical condition being treated. And went on to say, Benzodiazepines can be an important treatment option for treating disorders for which these drugs are indicated.

It was also acknowledged that No standard benzodiazepine tapering schedule is suitable for all patients; therefore, create a patient-specific plan to gradually reduce the dosage, and ensure ongoing monitoring and support as needed to avoid serious withdrawal symptoms or worsening of the patients medical conditions. The problem is that you cant bring the FDA into court with you; you cant even bring a textbook unless you bring the authors too. Please note that it says if taken at recommended dosages, leaving open the interpretation that prescribing these medications within recommended dosages was wrong.

Also, no allowance was made for patients who had been on these medications for decades, with physicians having to either toe the party line and taper them or risk incarceration. Those of us taking further continuing medical education in pain and addiction treatment were aware that there was a serious risk associated with stopping these medications, and we used our professional judgment. I myself saw a patient whose physician had moved out of state, and he needed primary care. He had been on opiates and benzodiazepines for over a decade for a severe spinal injury that resulted from an industrial accident. He had suffered through seven failed back surgeries and experienced severe anxiety with panic attacks from the traumatic event. He had also suffered a new injury with a partial amputation. He came to me on three opiates and two benzodiazepines. I cut these back to two and one, respectively, and he was able to tolerate the change. Did I do the right thing? I believed, based on my own personal medical judgment, that I had. And a recent study supports my decision, finally answering the question, IF someone is already on opiates, is it safer to stop them or continue them?

The answer quantified what many of us already had gleaned from our studies. Discontinuing someone from benzodiazepines when they are also on opiates increases their risk of death by 1.6 times, over just continuing their current treatment. This study was published in JAMA. It evaluated a total of 353,576 patients, comparing a group of 213,011 patients with a mean age of 62, among whom about 64% were female with a racial mix of 60% White, 11% Hispanic, 9% Black, and 1.4% Asian all on benzodiazepines combined with opiates; with a group of 140,565 patients mean age 61, 79% White, 11% Black, 8.5% Hispanic, and 1% Asian who were on benzodiazepines only. The question was, when patients in the first group were discontinued on their benzodiazepine medications, such as to avoid concomitant use and thereby protect the patient, did they live longer? The answer was a resounding no.

Those who had been on long-term combined therapy whose benzodiazepines were stopped had a 1.6 times higher rate of mortality. The researchers went on to note, These results suggest benzodiazepine discontinuation among patients prescribed for stable long-term treatment may be associated with unanticipated harms, and that efforts to promote discontinuation should carefully consider the potential risks of discontinuation relative to continuation. So now what I believed to be true has been proven by a study involving a third of a million patients. I am happy to know that what I sincerely believed at the time, that I had made the best decision for the patient I described, has been proven right. But it will be cold comfort to my family as we await my sentencing for having written that first prescription.

L. Joseph Parker is a distinguished professional with a diverse and accomplished career spanning the fields of science, military service, and medical practice. He currently serves as the chief science officer and operations officer, Advanced Research Concepts LLC, a pioneering company dedicated to propelling humanity into the realms of space exploration. At Advanced Research Concepts LLC, Dr. Parker leads a team of experts committed to developing innovative solutions for the complex challenges of space travel, including space transportation, energy storage, radiation shielding, artificial gravity, and space-related medical issues.

He can be reached on LinkedIn and YouTube.
Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court has issued criminal summons against Ugandan businessman Patrick Bitature and his wife Carol Bitature. The couple is required to appear in court on February 6, 2024, to answer charges of conspiring to defraud a South African money lender of over USD 26 million.

The summons were issued by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi based on a private prosecution initiated by lawyers from Kirunda and Company Advocates. This follows an order by Kampala High Court Judge Rosette Kania on January 8, 2024, authorizing the prosecution of the couple on fraud charges.

The Bitatures, directors of Elgon Terrace Ltd and Simba Telecom, are accused of fraudulently altering company shares in 2019 and 2020 with the intent to defraud Vantage Mezzanine Fund 11, a South African creditor to whom they owe $26,486,634.78 as of December 2019.

Furthermore, they are charged with filing false annual returns for Elgon Terrace Limited at the Uganda Registration Services Bureau to intentionally deprive Vantage of its security interest in the charged shares.

The chargesheet approved by Kayizzi specifies that Patrick Bitature, 60, and Carol Bitature, 56, will face charges of providing false statements as directors, fraudulently altering company shares as directors, and conspiracy to defraud.
The daughters of Henry Katanga, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, have been committed to the High Court for trial alongside the familys shamba boy, George Amanyire, and a medical practitioner, Charles Otai. All four face charges of being accessories to the murder of the family head, Henry Katanga.

The committal order was issued by Nakawa Court Chief Magistrate Elias Kakooza, acting on the instructions of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Jane Frances Abodo. Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya presented the committal papers to the court.

The two sisters are accused of destroying or moving valuable evidence related to their fathers murder. They are charged under the same indictment as their mother, Molly Katanga, who is already facing charges for her husbands murder.

The prosecution alleges that on November 2, 2023, at the familys residence on Chwa 2 Road in Nakawa division, Kampala, Nkwanzi and Kakwanza, with knowledge that certain items could be required as evidence in a judicial proceeding, intentionally removed, destroyed, or concealed them to prevent their use in the case.

Molly Katanga, the widow, reportedly remains hospitalized due to injuries allegedly sustained during the incident involving her husbands murder.

Amanyire and Otai are accused of aiding Molly Katanga and her daughters in evading punishment, knowing they were liable for the crime.
Opposition political leaders under the United Forces of Change have urged the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) to speak out against injustices occurring in the country. The call came during an engagement held Monday morning at IRCUs offices in Mengo, Kampala.

The meeting was meant to involve key political party principals, including National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction president Erias Lukwago, and former FDC leader Dr. Kiiza Besigye, however, all the three are still under house arrest due to their planned demonstration over poor road conditions in the country and were unable to attend personally.

Following the engagement, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament Mr Joel Ssenyonyi, who represented Kyagulanyi, addressed the media.

He challenged IRCU to fulfill its role and not stay silent when the country is on the wrong track.

Ssenyonyi criticized the current government for alleged acts of human rights violations, including kidnappings, murders, political persecution, and poor service delivery. He insisted that these actions should be condemned by the Council.
Parliamentarians from various political parties gathered at Entebbe International Airport on Sunday to receive the body of former Dokolo district MP, Cecilia Ogwal.

The Emirates Air flight carrying her remains arrived from India, where she passed away on Thursday due to complications from cancer. Speaker Anita Among led the reception.

The deceaseds husband, Lameck Ogwal, and other family members accompanied the body.

The depth of Ogwals influence in Parliament was visible as MPs openly fought back tears.

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to His Grace Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, Rt Rev. Prof Alfred Olwa and all the Ministers of the word for joining us to pray for the family and mourners. We shall receive Imat at Parliament tomorrow at 9 am and celebrate her legacy and her amazing contribution to our country, Speaker Among posted on her X platform on Sunday.

The body was transferred to Mulago Hospital mortuary and subsequently taken to her Bugolobi residence for a vigil.

Today, Monday, January 22, 2024, Parliamentarians are expected to receive the body and pay their final respects.
By AFP

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Sunday urged Addis Ababa and Mogadishu to open dialogue to settle their dispute over Ethiopias maritime deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland.

Tensions in the Horn of Africa have escalated since landlocked Ethiopia struck a deal with Somaliland on January 1 that gives it much sought-after access to the sea. In return, Somaliland  which unilaterally declared independence in 1991  has said Ethiopia would give it formal recognition.

Addis Ababa has not confirmed this. Read more
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khaskhabar.com : , 22  2024 1:31 PM
State senators approved limiting the number of bills they can introduce during each legislative session on Friday, the final day of a mid-biennium rules debate.

Beginning next year, senators will only be able to introduce 20 pieces of legislation, under an amended proposal championed by Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair.

Hansen originally sought to cap senators at 14 bills per session and later raised that number to 16, before ultimately introducing an amendment that set the limit to 20.

The amended rule change was adopted on a 31-15 vote, largely along party lines in the officially nonpartisan Legislature.

The change comes as a handful of senators have raised concerns about the number of bills being introduced each year outpacing a senator's ability to manage their workload, or the Legislature's ability to give it ample consideration.

On Thursday, Speaker John Arch said the number of bills being introduced has trended upward over the last three biennium, which encompasses six years.

During the 106th Legislature, for example, there were a total of 1,221 bills plus 17 proposed constitutional amendments brought in 2019 and 2020.

The 107th Legislature, which spanned 2021-22, saw some 1,277 bills and 21 constitutional amendments introduced, while that number jumped to 1,417 bills and 30 constitutional amendments for the ongoing 108th Legislature.

Under Hansen's rule change, which came at the end of nearly six hours of debate Thursday and Friday, it's possible some 1,960 bills could be introduced in the 109th Legislature set to begin next year.

But while the cap was set at more than 500 bills higher than what was introduced over the last two years, opponents to the proposal said the cap was arbitrary and could limit the voice of Nebraskans in their unicameral legislative body.

Lincoln Sen. Danielle Conrad said some bills are introduced at the request of citizens of Nebraska, including in some cases residents of another district. If senators were at their limit, those individuals may not have the ability to bring their ideas before lawmakers, Conrad said.

"If you can't be bothered to hear an idea that's been brought forward in good faith, don't run for office," Conrad said. "But don't you dare limit my ability to give voice to my constituents or your constituents when you turn your back on them."

Several senators said that limiting the number of bills that can be introduced will likely lead to lawmakers bringing forward bills with more moving parts, requiring just as much or more time for committees to consider and the full Legislature to deliberate.

Omaha Sen. John Cavanaugh said larger bills could also create problems if senators don't fully understand their implications on state statute.

"It goes against good judgment to create an environment where people aren't sure what's in them," he said.

Sen. Wendy DeBoer told lawmakers that setting a ceiling on the number of bills that can be introduced might lead to that number becoming a floor.

"If everyone puts this as the maximum you can do, everyone will do that," the Bennington senator said.

The rule change was adopted shortly before the Legislature adjourned for the weekend at 2 p.m.

With adjournment, three other proposed changes to the permanent rules  all sponsored by Sen. Steve Erdman of Bayard  under which the Legislature operates fell off the agenda.

The first change would have lowered the threshold needed for a cloture motion to shut off debate from 33 senators, where it currently sits now, to two-thirds of those present in the chamber.

It also would have not counted those who were "present not voting" in the total, which could have potentially lowered the number of senators needed to shut off debate to 25  the number needed for a simple majority  in what opponents said would have weakened the filibuster.

Erdman also brought a proposal that would have required senators to have the support of five other lawmakers through a show of hands to introduce a priority motion.

The final proposal that did not see debate on Friday would have barred the news media from observing and reporting on closed meetings of legislative committees where the contents of bills are discussed and legislation is advanced to the floor for debate.

Shortly before the Legislature broke for the weekend, Erdman said he believed this session was going the same route as last year's acrimonious session after opponents effectively blocked a handful of rule changes.

"We have run off the rail here," the Rules Committee chairman said, adding he regretted allowing other rules to be advanced out of the committee and scheduled before his own.

Erdman said he was considering introducing a motion to adjourn sine die, effectively ending the 60-day session after 12 days, and waiting for Gov. Jim Pillen to call a special session for the Legislature to consider any budget adjustments.

Arch, however, said the Legislature would begin floor debate on bills carried over from the 2023 session when it reconvenes Monday morning at 10 a.m.

The Legislature will also begin committee hearings for new bills introduced this year starting Monday afternoon.
If you have a problem with your local news publishers, the best course of action is to get in touch with them.

That was the message given by Dave OConnell, Editor of the Connacht Tribune, at an Oireachtas Committee hearing on alternatives to court action.

Mr OConnell was speaking on behalf of Local Ireland, which represents 33 newspapers and their online websites around the country.

He told the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Media: If you are wronged or you believe you are wronged, the first port of call should be either the reporter of the story, who will then raise the matter with his or her editor - or alternatively, the complainant could go straight to the editor.

Resolving an issue locally is the best course of action for everyone because it avoids the stress and cost, for both sides, that can arise from going the legal route.

Mr OConnell told TDs that if anyone was still not satisfied, they could go to Press Council, where the independent Press Ombudsman would give a binding judgement on the issue, which would oblige the publisher to report the judgement with the same prominence as the original story if the complaint was upheld.

The TDs and Senators were told that a defamation action could threaten jobs and the future of some news publishers,

Mr OConnell said: We all recognise the right of everyone to their good name and when we make the, hopefully, very occasional mistake, we absolutely believe we should rectify it.

Either raising issues with the publisher or the Press Council were simple and straightforward steps which can avert very long, drawn out and costly legal actions. He added a half-decent action, without any malicious intent, could close us down.

The Editor of the Business Post, Daniel McConnell, speaking on behalf of NewsBrands, which represents national publishers, expressed support for the new defamation legislation being drawn up by the Government. But he called on lawmakers to introduce a serious harm test for all defamation actions.

He said: The Irish media faces, on an almost daily basis, unwarranted and exaggerated claims for defamation. The costs of defending these cases are significant and these costs are often unrecoverable even where the defence succeeds.

A serious harm test for all defamation proceedings would alleviate the costs of such unwarranted claims and the risks to Ireland associated with SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) and libel tourism.

The Press Ombudsman Susan McKay noted that the proposed legislation would oblige legal advisers to point out the alternatives to legal action to their clients.

She added: Our structures were set up to offer the public a route to redress which did not involve litigation. In our submission to the review of the 2009 (defamation) act we stressed the need to ensure the public knows that we offer a free and fast alternative dispute resolution system, and we are pleased that the new act will require solicitors to inform persons considering suing of this.

After the hearing, the Executive Director of Local Ireland Bob Hughes said: It is clear the current defamation legislation is not fit for purpose and we would urge the Government to ensure that the new legislation is enacted within the life of the current Dail.
A woman has looked back on an eerie moment she spent with murder suspect Ian Bailey.

Mr Bailey, the suspect for Sophie Toscan du Plantiers muder, died on Sunday after a suspected heart attack. He collapsed on a street in west Cork. Mr Bailey has always denied any involvement in Ms Toscan du Plantiers death.

Siobhan Burke met Ian Bailey at the West Cork Symposium, a small group of creatives with a passion for working with natural materials.

Speaking of the encounter, she recalled: Ian Bailey attended our West Cork Symposium one year. We always sold the tools off at the end in cheerful conversations with our new stone carvers.

She recalled how Mr Bailey pointed a chisel at her.

But he stood behind me quietly, called my name sharply, & had a chisel pointing directly into my chest when I spun round. He had no money to pay for the tools, though he stuck to his promise to drop the cash off somewhere at a later date. But the huge smile on his face at my fright isn't something I've forgotten, she said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Ian Bailey died at age 66 in Bantry, Co Cork, on Sunday. The former journalist was arrested twice and questioned by gardai about the murder of Ms Toscan du Plantier but he constantly denied any involvement in the killing of the french woman, whose body was found badly beaten outside her holiday home in Cork in 1996.

Mr Bailey, with an address at The Prairie in Schull, was convicted of her murder in absentia by a Paris court in May 2019, which imposed a 25-year sentence. The High Court rejected an attempt by French authorities to extradite Ian Bailey for the murder in October 2020, they ruled that he would not be surrendered to France after a European Arrest Warrant was issued in 2019.
Do Kwons Terraform Labs Files for Bankruptcy Protection in US

Terraform Labs, the issuer of the collapsed stablecoin TerraUSD (UST), has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States.

The filing by Terraform Labs was officially submitted to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. This action marks a significant legal step for the company in dealing with the repercussions of its financial struggles and the collapse of its cryptocurrency assets.

Terraform Labs Bankruptcy Restructuring Plan



In its Chapter 11 filing, Terraform Labs disclosed a range of both assets and liabilities estimated between $100 million to $500 million. The filing, necessitated by the significant financial troubles following the collapse of its digital currencies, is aimed at restructuring the companys debts.

Terraform Labs has committed to fulfilling its financial responsibilities to both its employees and vendors. The company has indicated that this will be achievable without the need for external financial support. Additionally, Terraform Labs has announced its intention to continue the expansion of its web3 offerings, despite the ongoing bankruptcy process.

The filing will allow TFL to execute on its business plan while navigating ongoing legal proceedings, including representative litigation pending in Singapore and U.S. litigation involving the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), said the company in a statement.

The legal troubles for Terraform Labs and its co-founder, Do Kwon, escalated with the collapse of its two main cryptocurrencies, TerraUSD and Luna, in May 2022. The failure of TerraUSD to maintain its peg to the U.S. dollar triggered a market-wide crisis, leading to a significant loss in value.

The SEC has been pursuing a civil case against Terraform Labs and Kwon, linking their operations to an alleged $40 billion cryptocurrency fraud. This legal battle, among other challenges, contributed to the companys decision to file for bankruptcy.

Previously, the SEC agreed to postpone Kwons trial to mid-March due to Kwons extradition request. Kwons legal team filed an appeal against the Montenegro High Courts decision to uphold the extradition requests from both the United States and South Korea.

Kwons Lawyer Argues for Extradition to South Korea



In addition, Do Kwons legal representative in Montenegro Goran Rodic has presented an argument favoring Kwons extradition to South Korea over the United States.

Citing the European Convention on the Extradition of Criminals, the bilateral agreement between Montenegro and the United States, and local laws regarding international legal support, Rodic asserted that Kwon, being a Korean citizen, should be sent back to South Korea.

100% sure that he should be repatriated, said Rodic.
The Center for the Future of Native Peoples at Dickinson College will host a film screening and conversation with Indigenous comedian and writer Joey Clift from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Anita Tuvin Schlechter Auditorium, 360 W. Louther St., Carlisle.

The event is free and open to the public.

Clift is a comedian, TV writer and Emmy-nominated producer who is also an enrolled Cowlitz Indian Tribal member. His writing credits include "Spirit Rangers" on Netflix, "New Looney Tunes" on Cartoon Network and "Molly of Denali" on PBS. He is also the creative mind behind the Shorty Impact Award-winning Comedy Central digital series, "Gone Native."

The event will explore Clift's work and offer an opportunity to engage with the writer.
The Boeing 737 Max airplane on the production line at the company's manufacturing facility in Renton, Washington, seen in 2015.
Carlisle Area School District has no plans to make Veterans Day a holiday for students.

The school board last week approved a district calendar for the 2024-25 school year. During a committee meeting in early January, board president Paula Bussard read the contents of a letter she received from Rick Olson, commander of VFW Post 477 in Carlisle.

Olson asked the board to replace Columbus Day with Veterans Day as a day off for students.

We would ask that you would recognize the men and women who defended our country in times of war and peace, Olson wrote.

Bussard said that many district schools conduct ceremonies on Veterans Day

The one at Lamberton Middle School includes a speaker, she said. The children honor current and past individuals.

Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lamberton staff invited to each ceremony veterans from the Chapel Pointe retirement community across South Hanover Street from the school building. Bussard has attended other ceremonies at Crestview and LeTort elementary schools.

The ceremonies provide a learning opportunity for students to interact directly with retired and active duty military personnel as opposed to being at home playing videos games and watching Disney+, Bussard argued.

Last week, Bussard said the district and community recognizes the value of current military personnel and those who have served in the past. However, the board is not looking to change the calendar at this time, she said.

Board member Bruce Clash asked if theres a downside to swapping out Columbus Day for Veterans Day as a holiday.

Well, its not a perfect fit, Superintendent Colleen Friend said. If you look at Columbus Day, thats actually a professional development day. It would not be a pure day off.
By Lee Hae-rin

The first giant panda born in Korea is expected to be delivered to her parents' home country by Air China, not Korean Air. But the specific timing of Fu Bao's transfer to China is under discussion.

Everland, the countrys largest theme park operated by Samsung C&T in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, and the China Wildlife Conservation Association have been discussing how to send Fu Bao to her parents' home country, according to sources in the local tourism and travel industry, Monday.

However, according to media reports, Fu Bao will travel to China on Air China, the country's flag carrier, instead of Korean Air, at the request of the Chinese side.

Fu Baos parents Le Bao and Ai Bao came to Korea in 2016 via Korean Air, the countrys leading full-scale carrier that has planes equipped with temperature and air circulation processors suitable for professional animal transportation.

The details of Fu Baos travel are still being discussed, an Everland official said, adding the company will announce the date and travel route of her journey as soon as possible in order to soothe Koreans sadness over parting with the much-loved panda.

Born on July 20, 2020, between two pandas sent to Korea from China in March 2016 as a symbol of bilateral relations on a 15-year contract, Fu Bao became a national sensation for her cute appearance, playful behavior and special chemistry with her zookeeper, who calls himself Fu Baos grandfather.

Meanwhile, there has been attention on the return journeys of giant pandas, including ones that were born overseas.

The Singapore-born giant panda cub Le Le flew to China via Singapore Airlines last week, while three U.S.-based giant pandas  Mei Xiang, Tian Tian and Xiao Qi Ji  went to China on a FedEx Express charter flight from Washington, D.C. last November.

Europe-based giant pandas, including France-born Yuan Meng, Dutch-born Fan Xing and Germany-born twins Meng Xiang and Meng Yuan took an Air China flight last year to China.

Fu Bao will leave Korea before her fourth birthday on July 20 this year.
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Snow likely. Temps nearly steady in the mid 30s. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 70%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. A few flurries are possible. Low 26F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
Despite the excitement for (G)I-DLE's new music, netizens have drawn out their mixed responses over the group's lyrics for "Wife."

Here's what people are saying.

(G)I-DLE's Lyrics for 'Wife' Receives Mixed Reactions for Being 'Nonsensical'

On January 21, (G)I-DLE released their fifth digital single "Wife," which is also the pre-release track of their upcoming second full-length album "2."

The music video features the quintet dancing to the song's choreography, accompanied by its quirky beat, poppy instrumental, and the group's chanting verses. However, the song quickly caught the attention of Korean netizens, leading to a forum.

In an online community titled "(G)I-DLE's lyrics for pre-release song 'Wife," the author uploaded the entire lyrics of the song, followed by negative remarks from netizens. According to the post, K-netz criticized the song's "nonsensical" lyrics.

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: (G)I-DLE's Abrupt R-Rated 'TOMBOY' Performance Shocks Idols - Here's What The Group Did

Some called out the lyrics for having too many English words. Netizens also shared how (G)I-DLE's discography began to plummet ever since their "Nxde" era. Read their comments below:

"I'm a married person and the lyrics f*cking p**s me off. I wonder what they think of wives? If the title was '(G)I-DLE,' their fans would be enraged."

"I've always felt this way, but they are really not good at writing lyrics."

"Results aside, the level of these lyrics are just, d**n. That's why I don't listen to idol songs anymore. The amount of ridiculous English is just severe."

"They are calling a song with those lyrics 'wife'? Women's rights are crumbling."

"I am starting to hate them."

"Ever since Nxde, they're pretending to be someone they're not, be p**verts, and be all weird. The overs**ualization is just too excessive."

"I got reminded of J.Lo's song though? Of course, the nuance of the song is completely the opposite."

International K-pop fans stated that the song meant well, suspecting how it was supposed to be a satirical take that addresses misogyny and delving into the value of being a wife. However, netters claimed that the message became muddled due to the lyrics

"It's a list of misogynistic traits Korean men want."

"I feel like the song is supposed to be satirizing how ridiculous all these are. The lyrics are just jumbled so the message comes out as unclear."

"Soyeon needs to stop writing in English, she sucks and is nonsensical."

"It could've been satire, but it's just nonsense. I can't even get offended because I have to squint too hard to understand it."

"I get the satirical tone she was going for, but good lord, the way it's written is horrendous."

Watch the full MV for "Wife" here:

What was your reaction to (G)I-DLE's new song? What are your thoughts on its lyrics? Let us know in the comments below!

Read KpopStarz for more K-pop news.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: '2nd-Gen Coded': (G)I-DLE's Teaser Images for '2' Praised for Bringing Back Golden Era

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Riely Miller
Language calling for the universal and correct wearing of masks, should conditions warrant it, will remain part of the Carlisle Area School District health and safety plan.

The American Rescue Plan Act requires that every district receiving ESSER funds submit an annual plan update outlining the steps school officials would take in the event of a future pandemic. Implemented in response to COVID-19, ESSER is short for Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief.

During a meeting Thursday, the school board unanimously approved the latest update that calls for no significant changes other than the dates. The update mentions that masking will remain optional, but could become a requirement if conditions change.

Board member David Miller spoke out against this potential requirement: I believe universal masking would take away freedom of choice. Im a strong believer in the freedom of choice.

Im certainly not anti-masking by any means, Miller said. If we had another COVID-like event, I would certainly recommend that folks would voluntarily mask. He said masks should be of the proper design and properly worn.

The comments by Miller prompted other board members to weigh in. I appreciate the concern about choice for masking, [but] I would like to have all options on the table, George Stroud said. To me, safety would come before choice. When we look at this policy, its about the safety of children and about a policy for the unknown.

I agree with Dr. Strouds comments, Joseph Shane said. We know about the transmission and pathology of all classes of coronavirus that we had during the pandemic. However, thats only one possible future. We need to leave the policy the way it is. It puts us in a position to respond effectively with the science and public health communication.

Miller did not offer a motion to remove the language nor did he vote against the motion to submit the update to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Attending the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 in Davos, Switzerland at the invitation of its Founder and Chairman Prof. Klaus Schwab, President Ranil Wickremesinghe interacted with world political and business leaders in addressing a range of issues including debt relief, economic recovery and climate change among others.

President Wickremesinghe participated in panel discussions and roundtables covering topics varying from Sri Lankas economic recovery and growth to investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, and the global challenges in the multilateral arena, including climate change and mitigation.

Taking part at the Stakeholder Dialogue, organised by the WEF titled Pulling debt back from the brink on 17 January as a panellist, President Wickremesinghe highlighted populism, debt relief, balance of payment and budgetary challenges that all countries face. He pointed out that the expectations of the people have to be met in all countries, and that if strict rules were to be applied, all governments would collapse. Also on the panel were, Wale Edun, Minister of Finance of Nigeria , Professor Laura Alfaro of the Harvard Business School, Professor Kenneth Rogoff of Harvard University, and Vera Songwe of the Liquidity and Sustainability Fund. The President also participated in an interactive informal gathering of world economic leaders on the topic Restoring faith in the multilateral system held on 17 January.

Delivering the keynote address at the Green Tech Forum jointly organized by the Swiss Asian Chamber of Commerce and the Latin American Chamber of Commerce, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the opportunities available for investing in Sri Lankas renewable energy sector. He also briefed the participants on the framework being established in Sri Lanka to attract green financing.

Participating in a panel organised by the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) on Leaders Investment Roundtable, President Wickremesinghe highlighted Sri Lankas climate prosperity plan and the urgent need for green climate financing for countries in the Global South. He underlined the urgent need to accelerate global action to expedite climate change mitigation efforts. The President reiterated the need for climate justice and stronger contributions to adaptation and mitigation efforts from advanced economies.

He also briefed the Forum on the Tropical Belt Initiative launched by Sri Lanka at the COP28 in Dubai, which creates a framework for private investment in forests, energy, oceans and mangroves in the countries of the tropical belt. The participation at the WEF provided an opportunity for the President to discuss Sri Lankas climate justice and green tech initiatives with former Vice President of the USA and the Founder/Chairman of the Climate Reality Project Al Gore and the US Climate Envoy and former Secretary of State John Kerry.

In a meeting with the Managing Director of the IMF Kristalina Georgieva President Wickremesinghe briefed on improved macro economic indicators in the country that have resulted in positive growth.

During his visit to Davos, President Wickremesinghe also had meetings with the President of Switzerland Viola Amherd, President of Singapore Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo , President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Vice President of Nigeria Kashim Shettima , Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Pakistan Anwar ul Haq Kakar, Prime Minister of Mongolia Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai, and the Foreign Minister of Norway Espen Barth Eide.

At the Business Roundtable jointly organized by the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka and the Swiss Asian Chamber of Commerce on 16 January, President Wickremesinghe underlined Sri Lankas economic recovery and stabilisation processes and highlighted the opportunities for investment notably in renewable energy, agriculture modernization, tourism, IT and infrastructure development. The President also responded to questions raised by the participants that ranged from health, education, renewable energy and banking to agriculture and manufacturing. On the sidelines of the WEF 2024, the President also had meetings with heads of multinational companies, including Maersk and Uber.

Addressing business leaders from India, at the Roundtable organized by the Consortium of Indian Industry, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the macro-economic stabilisation brought about over the past year and invited Indian companies to make use of the unique opportunities in renewable energy, infrastructure development, agriculture and tourism. The President also responded to specific queries and concerns put forward by companies that have already invested in Sri Lanka, and bilaterally followed up with a number of Indian companies including Menzies Aviation, Adani Group, Bharati Airtel and ReNew.

The 2024 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum was held under the theme `Rebuilding Trust, and saw the participation of leaders from over 100 governments, major international organizations, global business leaders, as well as civil society, academics and experts, young change-makers, social entrepreneurs and the media.

Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations

Geneva

21 January 2024
VMPL

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 22: Chargeback Gurus (CBG), an industry leader in chargeback prevention and recovery solutions, proudly announces the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tamil Nadu State Government at the Global Investors Meet, 2024 in Chennai on 8th January 2024. This significant partnership serves as an important milestone for the broader fintech and chargeback industry, signaling a transformative era of innovation and economic empowerment within Tamil Nadu and beyond.

Also Read | Mitchell Weiser's Sole Goal Helps Werder Bremen Shock Bayern Munich in Bundesliga 2023-24.

The MoU, spanning a comprehensive three-year period, underscores Chargeback Gurus' unwavering commitment to the state of Tamil Nadu. Tim Tynan, CEO of Chargeback Gurus, expressed his enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, "This agreement solidifies our commitment to Tamil Nadu and sets the stage for our continued expansion. We are excited to leverage the exceptional talent pool in the state and deliver cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art operational excellence on a global scale."

Damo Sampathkumar, GM of India, and Chief Product Officer of Chargeback Gurus, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Tamil Nadu stands out as a beacon for exceptional talent, driven by a robust education system and visionary policies. Our center in Tamil Nadu will serve as a hub for innovation and growth, positioning us to make significant contributions to the technological landscape both locally and internationally."

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Suresh Dakshina, Co-founder, and Strategist at Chargeback Gurus, emphasizes, "The MoU with the TN government marks a pivotal commitment by Chargeback Gurus to foster sustained growth in the region, envisioning a total of up to 600 skilled employees by the next three years alongside substantial financial investments."

Chargeback Gurus helps businesses protect and recover revenue by providing innovative chargeback management solutions and AI insights powered by their proprietary FPRONE platform.

By understanding our clients' needs and fully aligning with their goals, we help them reduce chargebacks and increase recovery rates to maximize revenue. Our technology solutions use powerful data science and AI analytics--combined with deep industry expertise--to deliver hundreds of millions of dollars in recovered revenue to our clients.

To learn more about Chargeback Gurus, visit: www.chargebackgurus.com.

Chennai PR Contact: Preetha Sundararajanpreetha.sundararajan@chargebackgurus.com

91-904-322-2620

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi [India], January 22 (ANI): Indian stock exchanges are closed Monday on the occasion of Pran Pratistha of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with normal trading activities to resume on Tuesday.

The next financial market holiday is on January 26 for Republic Day celebrations. Over the past week, the benchmark indices - Sensex and Nifty - cumulatively declined a little over 2 per cent.

Also Read | Namrata Shirodkar Birthday: 5 Times the Beauty Proved She Is the Epitome of Grace and Elegance! (View Pics).

Meanwhile, the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram in the newly built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya will be held at around noon.

The ceremony will be attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country. People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities, will also attend the ceremony.

Also Read | Times Square Lights Up as Indian Diaspora Celebrates Ayodhyas Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha Ceremony: Live Breaking News Headlines & Updates, January 22, 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address this gathering on occasion.

Prime Minister will interact with workers associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. The Prime Minister will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored. He will also perform Pooja and Darshan at this restored temple.

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width is 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai, Jan 22 (PTI) Private carrier Air India on Monday commenced the commercial operations of its first wide-body A350 aircraft with a flight taking off for Chennai from the Mumbai airport.

The 316-seater A350-900 aircraft has a three-class cabin configuration with 28 private business suites with full-flat beds, 24 premium economy and 264 economy seats.

Also Read | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2024: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on 3-Day Visit to Bengal From Monday.

"Air India flight AI-589 took off from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday for Chennai, with a full-capacity load of passengers," the airline said in a statement.

The aircraft will initially fly on domestic routes -- Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai -- for crew familiarisation and regulatory compliance.

Also Read | Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2024: PM Narendra Modi To Inaugurate Nine-Day Event on Parakram Diwas at Delhis Red Fort on January 23.

It will later be deployed for long-haul flights to destinations across continents, strengthening Air India's growing wide-body fleet, comprising its own and recently leased aircraft, the airline said.

The first of Air India's own 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, registered VT-JRA, arrived at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport late last month from Airbus' Toulouse manufacturing facility in France.

The induction of the A350 in Air India's fleet is a part of the airline's 470 new aircraft order that it placed early last year.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Guwahati, January 22: As many as one lakh earthen lamps (diyas) were lit at the revered Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati to celebrate 'deepotsav' after the country witnessed the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya temple on Monday. Devotees have thronged the Kamakhya Temple at Nilachal Hills since early morning, which is dedicated to the goddess Maa Kamakhya.

The temple is the centre of the Kulachara Tantra Marga and the site of the Ambubachi Mela, an annual festival that celebrates the menstruation of the goddess. Likewise, one lakh diyas were also light up at the Basistha temple, located in the south-east corner of Guwahati. The history of the Basistha Ashram where the temple is located dates back to the Vedic age. According to legend the ashram was founded by the great saint Basistha (Vasishtha). Ayodhya Deepotsav Photos & Videos: Diyas and Lamps Illuminate The City After Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony

Meanwhile, the city of Ayodhya was adorned with 'Ram Jyotis', creating a mesmerising atmosphere symbolising the divine presence of the Lord. Earlier today, the 'Pran Pratishtha' was concluded with great zeal and gusto, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi performing the ceremony, led by a group of priests. The temple echoed with jubilant chants of 'Jai Shree Ram'. Several people across the country participated in the mega 'Diya' lighting event at the famous Saryu Ghat in Ayodhya. Ram Temple Inauguration: Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla Idol Is Also That of Human Values, Highest Ideals, Says PM Narendra Modi (Watch Video)

Kamakhya Temple Lights Up with 1 Lakh Earthen Lamps

Assam: On the occasion of #RamlalaPranPratishtha, lakh of 'Diya' illuminating Maa Kamakhya Temple. pic.twitter.com/iaAGvoJz3x  All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) January 22, 2024

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi appealed to people to light 'Diyas' at home to mark the historic 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the lord. It is believed that upon the return of Lord Ram with wife Seeta and brother Lakshman, the people of Ayodhya adorned the city by lighting 'Diyas' to welcome them. The grand Ram Temple was also decorated with colourful lights as people thronged the temple to catch a glimpse of 'Ram Lalla'. However, the temple will be open to public from tomorrow onwards. Celebrations are being held across the nation, captivating attention from around the world.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
After years of work resulted in a hard-fought victory for housing advocates, supporters of Charlottesvilles new zoning ordinance have yet another hurdle ahead.

Homeowners in the one of the citys toniest neighborhoods filed a suit in Charlottesville Circuit Court on Jan. 16 seeking to block the new ordinance, passed by City Council in December, from going into effect next month.

In addition to City Council misleading the public, the suit filed by the Charlottesville law firm of Flora Pettit argues the citys process did not comply with Virginia statutes, and therefore the new zoning cannot be enforced.

If the lawsuit succeeds, both the zoning ordinance and the citys Comprehensive Plan, adopted by City Council in November of 2021, would be thrown out.

The Virginia Code establishes strict substantive requirements that must be complied with by the City Council before enacting a zoning ordinance, reads part of the 52-page suit. Failure to comply with these requirements renders the ordinance void and invalid.

There are nine plaintiffs listed in the suit: Edward and Susan White, Roy and Kristi Van Doorn, Michael and Lillian Bevier, Jenny Clay, and Thomas and Kemp Hill.

All of the plaintiffs are homeowners in the city, mostly residing in the Barracks-Rugby neighborhood. None of their residences are assessed below $750,000, with the most expensive being valued at more than $2.5 million.

Many of the plaintiffs also have high profiles. Lillian BeVier is a University of Virginia law professor and was a nominee to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit under President George H.W. Bush; her nomination was never processed by the Democrat-controlled Senate at the time. Edward White is the David and Mary Harrison Distinguished Professor of Law at UVa, and his wife Susan, who practices family law in Charlottesville, is the daughter of John F. Davis, the former clerk of the U.S. Supreme Court. The Hills, listed as trustees of matching trusts in their names, were featured in a 2013 C-Ville Weekly story, in which Kemp Hill is quoted saying they were drawn to the property, which once served as an apartment building for UVa students, because, There was a country feel to it that didnt involve actually having to live in the country, the best of both worlds.

Their lawsuit argues that the city, or any Virginia locality, derives its powers from the General Assembly. Any actions taken by the city that do not comply with General Assembly legislation are invalid. To help make its point, the suit cites a 1997 ruling by the Virginia Supreme Court: Municipalities in Virginia can only exercise those powers expressly or impliedly granted to them and only in the manner prescribed by the General Assembly.

Attorney Michael Derdeyn, who is representing the plaintiffs, declined an interview request and referred The Daily Progress to the filing.

City Council failed to give reasonable consideration to the impact the zoning ordinance would have on traffic, water and other infrastructure, a violation of Virginia Code, the lawsuit says. Additionally, it claims that the Comprehensive Plan was not submitted to the Virginia Department of Transportation for review.

The plaintiffs argue these alleged failures render both the ordinance and Comprehensive Plan void.

The lawsuit claims that the plaintiffs will encounter direct, pecuniary and substantial harm as a result of the new zoning, arguing that because the plan will allow more houses to be built, density will increase in their neighborhoods, increasing traffic, noise and straining infrastructure. The plaintiffs purchased their properties in part because of their location in low-density neighborhoods, the suit says.

Residents, who wish to remain in lower density areas, are being harmed and will continue to be harmed by increases in property taxes, noise and impact on light and quiet enjoyment, reads the suit.

The filing claims that the plaintiffs neighborhoods were singled out by the zoning ordinance.

Residents will suffer particularized harm not applicable to the public generally in the form of increased traffic and parking congestion, intensified storm water runoff and volume and tree canopy diminution, reads the suit. As a result, Residents properties will suffer noise, safety, flooding, as well as a loss of residential quietude that will not be suffered by the public generally.

The Daily Progress could not reach Charlottesville city attorney Jacob Stroman for comment, but city councilor Michael Payne said the claims levied against the city are nothing new.

Im obviously not a lawyer, but the arguments raised in the suit are things weve heard for over year at this point, he told The Daily Progress, adding that a similar suit was brought forward when the Comprehensive Plan was updated.

I feel confident that counsel and staff did all due diligence necessary to follow the law, that these arguments arent accurate and the city did everything required with the community, VDOT, transportation issues and all other issues of the zoning rewrite, Payne said. Everything we did was legally defensible, and there are not any gray areas.

Similar rezoning has produced similar suits elsewhere, Payne said.

You look at Virginia and Arlington and across the country, after big zoning changes happen, its almost always followed by litigation, he said. Thats often the case with any big policy changes we see in the city.

The lawsuit will be cheered on by the rezonings opponents, who have argued the city cannot handle the increased density the ordinance will bring and feel it will irreparably harm the city.

Housing advocates, on the other hand, say increased density means a higher supply of housing to meet higher demand, and lower costs for homebuyers and renters. Rezoning is a necessary and crucial step toward ultimately making housing more affordable for residents, they say. Livable CVille is among the advocacy groups who have championed the ordinance and celebrated its passing.

Charlottesvilles new zoning code is the product of years of community input, debate and democratic processes, Matthew Gillikin, the groups co-chair, told The Daily Progress. Just as the frivolous lawsuits to prevent the citys disposal of racist statues and block the Comprehensive Plan failed, we expect ultimately the new zoning code will prevail.

The suit is a defense of the status quo by comfortably housed people and will perpetuate our areas affordable housing crisis if successful, he said.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) The Delhi High Court on Monday set aside an order of the Central Information Commission (CIC) that directed the disclosure of information about the PM CARES Fund to an RTI applicant.

The high court said the information sought by the RTI applicant has been sought from the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) of Income Tax Department and not from the PM CARES Fund and the department does not treat PM CARES Fund as an authority.

Also Read | Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2024: PM Narendra Modi To Participate in Parakram Diwas Celebrations at Red Fort.

"Since the information sought for by the respondent (RTI applicant) relates to a third party, PM CARES Fund ought to have been heard. Section 11 of the RTI Act prescribes that any information related to a third party can only be divulged after giving notice to the said third party.

"In view of the above, the CIC ought to have followed the procedure specified under Section 11 of the RTI Act before ordering for grant of information as sought for by the respondent herein," Justice Subramonium Prasad said.

Also Read | Union Budget 2024-25: Interim Budget Will Aim To Boost Agricultural Sector To Enhance Food Security, Ensure Inclusive Growth in Economy.

The high court allowed the petition filed by the Income Tax authority challenging the CIC's April 27, 2022 order.

The high court noted that section 138(1)(b) of the IT Act mandates that information relating to an assessee can only be supplied subject to the satisfaction of Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner or Principal Commissioner or Commissioner, as the case may be.

"The satisfaction of Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner or Principal Commissioner or Commissioner is, therefore, necessary before such information can be divulged. That satisfaction cannot be abrogated to any other authority under a general Act for divulging the information sought for," it said.

It added that the court was of the view that "the CIC does not have the jurisdiction to direct furnishing of information, provided for in Section 138 of the IT Act. In any case, even if they had the jurisdiction, the failure to give PM CARES, notice of hearing, would in itself have vitiated the impugned.

"Accordingly, the writ petition is allowed and the order dated April 27, 2022 is set aside," Justice Prasad said in the 23-page order.

The single-judge bench had earlier noted that the issue of whether the PM Cares Fund is a public authority is presently pending before a division bench of the high court.

The respondent, RTI applicant Girish Mittal, had filed an RTI application before the Income Tax Authorities seeking certain information pertaining to an exemption application under the Income Tax Act in relation to Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund) as well as all the other exemption applications filed before the Income Tax Authority from April 1, 2019, till March 31, 2020.

The IT Department said that the CIC order, which refused information pertaining to other exemption applications but issued directions with respect to the PM CARES Fund, is contrary to the law and is inconsistent.

"It is well settled that judicial orders must follow a consistent reasoning and therefore if other exemption applications and their decisions were rejected on the ground of section 8(1)(j), there is no reason whatsoever as to why the same principle should not have governed the requests for disclosure of information in so far as Para (a) and (b) of the RTI Application is concerned which deals with a specific exemption application number relating to the PM Cares Fund," the petition said.

Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act exempts information which relates to personal information, the disclosure of which has no relationship to any public activity or interest, or which would cause unwarranted invasion of the privacy of the individual.

The petitioner stated that the information relates to a third party i.e. the PM CARES Fund, which is a registered trust and therefore the impugned order could not have been passed without hearing that party.

The respondent in the petition argued that the PM CARES Fund is a body owned and controlled by the Government of India.

In the present case, the respondent's plea for information was first rejected by the CPIO on the ground that the information sought was personal in nature and was not related to any public activity or interest, and would cause unwarranted invasion into the privacy of an individual.

The First Appellate Authority upheld the rejection while stating that PM CARES Fund did not fall within the purview of the RTI Act.

Subsequently, the respondent approached the CIC which refused to provide information pertaining to other exemption applications on the ground that it entailed disclosure of personal details of various third-party entities.

It, however, directed the CPIO to reply to the respondent indicating the factual position concerning the availability of documents in terms of paras (a) & (b) of RTI application, that is, copies of all the documents submitted in exemption application in relation to PM CARES Fund and file notings granting the approval within 15 days.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Patna (Bihar) [India], January 22 (ANI): The Janata Dal-United (JDU) suffered a major blow on Pran Pratishtha day as one of its spokespersons, Sunil Singh, shared his resignation letter from the party on social media on Monday.

Singh had tendered his resignation from the post of State Spokesperson and the party's primary membership to state party chief Umesh Singh Kushwaha in December last year. Sharing a snapshot of his resignation letter on Monday, Sunil Singh said he has decided to make his resignation public and that Lord Ram will guide him on his path of duty.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration: Several Key IT and Tech Leaders Reach Ayodhya To Witness Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of Ram Temple.

"On this auspicious day, following the ideals of Lord Shri Ram and following his direction, I make public my resignation from the primary membership of JDU and the post of spokesperson. Lord Shri Ram will further guide me on my path of duty," the former JDU spokesperson said in a Facebook post.

Sharing his experience and gratitude on the day of the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram Lalla at Ayodhya, Singh said that the country is "Rammay" and all Indians feel blessed by chanting Lord Ram's name.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony: PM Narendra Modi Begins Prayers at Ram Temple in Ayodhya (See Pics and Videos).

"Today the whole of India is in Rammay. There is joy everywhere due to the slogan of Jai Shri Ram and songs and music. We Indians are feeling blessed just by chanting his name. I too, Akinchan, bow down before that Lord Shri Ram," he said.

"I, Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh, resign from the post of State Spokesperson along with primary membership of the party due to personal reasons," he stated in his resignation letter thanking senior leaders of his party.

On Saturday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar executed a cabinet reshuffle, resulting in the reallocation of portfolios for three ministers from his ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal.

Chandra Shekhar, the Education Minister who had been in the news for various reasons, was appointed as the Sugarcane Industries Minister. He previously held the portfolio of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department.

Alok Mehta, who previously oversaw the Sugarcane Industries, Revenue, and Land Resources portfolio, was appointed as the new Education Minister for the state, as per an official notification.

Lalit Kumar Yadav has been given charge of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, as well as the Public Health Engineering Department. He previously held the Education Department.

Ram Mandir Trustee Kameshwar Chaupal had earlier said that an invitation letter was sent to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chennai, Jan 22 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi on Monday alleged that priests and staff of a Shri Ram temple here, under the control of the state government, faced 'repression' while the entire country celebrated the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

Against the background of the BJP alleging a 'ban' by the DMK regime for celebrations and public screening to mark the consecration, Ravi, underscored his visit to a temple here and seemingly backed the Saffron party's accusation.

Also Read | Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust: All About the Trust That Has Been Entrusted the Responsibility of Construction and Management of Ram Mandir.

The Governor said on X: "This morning I visited Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple, West Mambalam, Chennai, and offered prayers to Prabhu Sri Ram for the well-being of all. This temple is under HR & CE Dept. (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the state government)."

He alleged: "There was an all-pervasive sense of invisible fear and apprehensions writ large on the faces of priests and temple staff. A stark contrast to the festive environment in the rest of the country. While the entire country is celebrating the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla, the temple premises here exude a sense of acute repression."

Also Read | Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony: All Family Members of Mukesh Ambani To Be in Ayodhya for Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of Ram Lalla.

The TN government has dismissed the BJP's allegation that permission is denied by the HR and CE Department to hold celebrations in temples to mark the Ayodhya ceremony.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Shimla, January 22: Himachal Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Manish Garg on Monday reviewed the preparations for the National Voters Day programme to be held on January 25 and gave the officials the necessary directions. "Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla will be the chief guest of the National Voters Day programme," as per a press release. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed with the education department during the programme, he said.

In addition, there will be poster-making, singing and videography competitions, as well as the launch of the Pole Day Monitoring System (PDMS) 2.0. He said that during this time, the people present will also be given the oath to vote. Thereafter, the message of the Chief Election Commissioner will be broadcast. A signature wall and selfie point will be set up in front of Gaiety Theatre to promote voting during this period, he said. National Voters Day: Election Commission of India Begins a Nationwide Awareness Programme on EVMs & VVPATs Ahead of 2024 LS Polls

"During the programme, cultural performances based on the Electoral Literacy Club will be presented by the trainees of ITI Shimla. In addition, there will be a talk by State Icon RJ Shalini and a vocal performance by State Icon Muskan Sharma. Thereafter, a Mahasuvi Nati performance by the cultural troupe and a video of the police band Harmony of the Pines will be screened," the release stated. National Voters' Day 2024 Date In India: Know the History and Significance of the Day That Marks the Foundation Day of the Election Commission of India

During the programme, the best-performing Electoral Registration Officers will be felicitated and Electoral Photo Identity Cards will be distributed to the new voters. District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner Shimla Aditya Negi assured the Chief Electoral Officer that compliance with the directions given by him would be ensured. Deputy Commissioner Varinder Kumar Sharma, Joint CP Harsh Dayama, MC Additional Commissioner Aditya Dachalwal, MC Joint Commissioner Ankur Mahindru, ADC Khanna Sakatar Singh Bal, and several others were also present on the occasion.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kargil (Ladakh) [India], January 22 (ANI): The administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh on Monday welcomed the Indian Air Force Pilots and crews for the commencement of the AN-32 Courier Service to Kargil.

Chairman/CEC, LAHDC, Kargil, Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Secretary Civil Aviation, UT Ladakh, Ravinder Dangi, Deputy Commissioner/CEO, LAHDC, Kargil, Shrikant Suse, ADC, Kargil, Ghulam Mohiudin Wani, Deputy SP, Kargil, Manzoor Ahmad, Liaison Officer AN-32 Courier Service, Kargil, Kacho Alamagir Khan, among others were present on the occasion.

Also Read | No Government Holiday on January 22 in Karnataka: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi Says 'CM Siddaramaiah Is Anti-Hindu'.

The CEC extended a warm welcome to the Indian Air Force Pilots and expressed gratitude to the Government of India, Indian Air Force, UT Ladakh Administration, Secretary Civil Aviation, District Administration, Ladakh Police and Air Force Station Kargil for their support.

During the event, CEC Dr Jaffer instructed the Liaison Officers and ALOs to ensure the smooth operation of the AN-32 Courier Service. He inspected heating facilities and other essential services, underscoring his commitment to ensure hassle-free service.

Also Read | Explainer on Union Budget of India: Everything Youve Ever Wanted To Know About an Interim Budget.

The CEC highlighted that the AN-32 Courier Service aims to streamline travel, improving connectivity to and from Kargil.

Liaison Officer Kargil urged intending travelers to report on time carrying original IDs to avail the facility, thereby contributing to the efficient operation of the service.

The inaugural flight successfully lifted 11 passengers from Kargil to Jammu and 07 from Jammu to Kargil. The first flight of the AN-32 Courier Service to Kargil was operated by Gp Capt Saurabh Karmatar, Sqn Leader A. Nautiyal, Sqn Leader Kanwarpreet, Flight Leader Ashwini, Two Kaptans, and Sgt Shekhawat. (ANI)

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Ranchi, Jan 22 (PTI) Call it a technical hurdle or departmental failure, very few have taken advantage of the Jharkhand government's flagship petrol subsidy scheme.

In all, 30,287 people benefitted from the scheme between April and December 2023, an official said on Monday.

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In a bid to support the families covered under National Food Security Scheme (NFSS) amid rising prices of petrol, Jharkhand government on January 26, 2022 had launched the scheme for the families who owned two-wheelers.

Under the scheme, a monthly subsidy of Rs 250 for buying 10 litres of petrol is credited to the bank account of a beneficiary.

Also Read | Pran Pratishtha Live Telecast Denied in Tamil Nadu: Nirmala Sitharaman Terms DMK Government 'Anti-Hindu', Says Repression Saga in TN Continues.

Out of over 57 lakh families covered under the NFSS in Jharkhand, the government had hoped to benefit at least 20 lakh families when the scheme was launched. But, its beneficiaries started declining a few months after the scheme was launched.

Admitting the fact, state food and public department secretary Amitabh Kaushal told reporters here, "There is not much enthusiasm for petrol subsidy. We are reviewing to find out the reasons for it. If there is any issue in our policy, we will sort it out. We are trying to remove the bottlenecks so that people could gain from the scheme."

Speaking on the paddy procurement scheme, he said the government aims to procure six lakh metric tonne of paddy this year.

"Against the Minimum Support Price of Rs 2,183 per quintal by the government of India, state government is giving a bonus of Rs 117. So, farmers are getting Rs 2,300 for a quintal of paddy," he said.

He said the government has also increased the rate for rice millers to Rs 60 per quintal from Rs 20 per quintal.

Apart from foodgrains, the government is also distributing a kg of pulse at Re 1 per family covered under the NFSA and State Food Security scheme, he said.

In a bid to increase the income of dealers of Fair Price Shop, the PDS stores are being developed as common service centre (CSC). Out of 10,000 PDS shops identified, 6,671 shops have already been developed as CSC.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 22 (ANI): K Annamalai, Tamil Nadu BJP chief, claimed on Monday that the Madras High Court has ordered that there shall be no restrictions on telecasting Pran Pratishtha ceremony live on private premises in the state.

The BJP earlier filed urgent writ petitions both in the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court, alleging that the DMK government in the state banned arranging public viewings of the live telecast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the premises of temples and other places.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration: Several Key IT and Tech Leaders Reach Ayodhya To Witness Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of Ram Temple.

"The Hon Madras High Court has ordered that there shall be no restrictions on telecasting the Pran Pratishtha live on private premises," Annamalai said in a post on X.

He said that the Supreme Court had ordered that the fundamental rights of individuals could not be restricted by the Tamil Nadu government.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony: PM Narendra Modi Begins Prayers at Ram Temple in Ayodhya (See Pics and Videos).

"The Supreme Court has ordered that, based on oral orders, the fundamental rights of individuals cannot be restricted by the State govt of TN. Devotees of Bhagwan Shri Ram are free to telecast the consecration event live on an LED screen within any private premises & to give intimation only to HR&CE-administered temples. There is no ban on conducting Bhajans, offering special pooja or Annadhana," he said in the post.

Annamalai has also arrived at Gopalapuram Venugopala Swami Temple, Chennai, where he will watch the live telecast of the Ram Temple inauguration.

The BJP's plea in the Supreme Court said: "It is respectfully submitted that State Government run by DMK political party has banned live telecast of the auspicious occasion of 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu."

Earlier on Monday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman alleged that the DMK government misused the police to deny the citizens the right to watch the live telecast of Pran Pratishtha.

"The Tamil Nadu Police is being misused by the Government of Tamil Nadu...They are being misused by Hindu-hating DMK...Can any citizen be denied the right to watch the Prime Minister? The DMK is showing its personal hatred for the Prime Minister," Sitharaman said.

The BJP also alleged that Tamil Nadu Police on Monday removed the LED screens placed in a temple in the Kanchipuram district where Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was going to watch the live telecast of Ram Lalla's Pran Prathistha ceremony.

"This is a private temple in #Kanchipuram where Indian Finance Minister Smt.@nsitharaman is going to watch Live #Ayodhya #RamMandir #PranaPratishta!" SG Suryah, State Secretary of the Tamil Nadu unit of BJP, posted on X.

"But right now Tamil Nadu Police has entered the premises & is removing the LED screens. What a joke this is CM Mr.@mkstalin ?" he added. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 22 (ANI): A Toyota Corolla Altis Petrol (UP 16B 9331) caught fire while taking a U-turn under Sector 59 Metro Station on Monday. The incident happened in the Police Station Phase 3 area, officials said.

One person traveling in the vehicle was reported dead.

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After receiving word of the incident, police officials, the fire service unit, and the FSSO reached the spot where the tragic incident happened.

Prima facie, it appears that the vehicle collided with the divider and climbed on the divider, said officials.

Also Read | National Voters' Day: Election Commission of India Begins a Nationwide Awareness Programme on EVMs & VVPATs Ahead of 2024 LS Polls.

The field unit was called on the spot, and the police inspected the body and took other necessary actions. Efforts are being made to identify the body.

Traffic resumed smoothly and no problem related to law and order was reported further.

Further investigation into the matter is underway.

More details are awaited. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Dehradun (Uttarakhand) [India], January 22 (ANI): With just a few hours left for the grand 'Pran Pratishtha,' Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday offered prayers at the temple located in his government residence and said that after 500 years of a long struggle, "I am extremely elated to be a witness to this grand festival."

CM Dhami also performed 'Gau Sewa' after offering prayers.

Also Read | Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony: Women Sing 'Ram Bhajan' at Bhagyalaxmi Temple Charminar in Hyderabad Ahead of Pran Prathistha Ceremony (Watch Video).

"After 500 years of long struggle and sacrifices of many Ram devotees, I am extremely elated and happy to be a witness to this grand and divine festival. Ram belongs to every person and Ram is in every particle," he said.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister added that he prays to Lord Ram for the prosperity of the people of the state and the welfare of all the Sanatanis living all over the world.

Also Read | Germany: Train Drivers Union Calls Another Multi-day Strike.

Goa CM Pramod Sawant also offered prayers at Rudreshwar Temple in Panaji ahead of the Pran Pratishtha.

Meanwhile, The 'Pran Pratistha' of Ram Lalla is scheduled for Paush Shukla Kurma Dwadashi, Vikram Samvat 2080, which falls today, January 22.

The day will start with a morning puja followed by the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in 'Mrigashira Nakshatra', which is expected to start around 12.30 pm and end at 1 pm.

The ceremony will witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, among other dignitaries.

Over 150 traditions and more than 50 tribal communities will converge at the Shri Ram Temple, creating a unique and diverse assembly.

This marks a historic moment with the participation of residents from mountains, forests, coastal areas, islands, and more.

The temple is constructed in the traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width is 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed.

The main entrance to the temple is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap.

Near the temple is a historic well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the temple's complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

The foundation of the temple has been constructed with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), giving it the appearance of artificial rock. No iron is used anywhere in the temple. For protection against ground moisture, a 21-foot-high plinth has been constructed using granite.

The temple complex has a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety and an independent power station. The temple has been constructed employing the country's traditional and indigenous technology. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
North 24 Parganas, January 22: Border Security Force (BSF) has foiled a major smuggling attempt and arrested an Indian smuggler with gold worth over Rs 3 crores from the India-Bangladesh border. According to a release from BSF, Jawans of the border outpost Angrail, 5 Battalion, BSF on Sunday arrested an Indian smuggler with two gold bricks and 30 gold biscuits.

The arrested smuggler was identified as Prosenjit Mandal, Village-Haldar Para, District-North 24 Parganas in West Bengal. "Smugglers were trying to smuggle these gold biscuits and bricks from Bangladesh to India. The total weight of the seized gold is 4.829 kg and the estimated value is Rs 3.10 crore," BSF said.

According to a BSF spokesperson, on January 21, around 3 pm, BSF personnel deployed on border duty observed the movement of three miscreants who crossed into India from the Ichchamati River (Internation Boundary) through a dense forest of wild grass and bamboo bushes. "They were moving secretly towards the Indian border. There is Haldarpara village in this area in which the houses extend till the banks of Ichamati river, due to which the miscreants get an opportunity to carry out illegal activities. West Bengal: BSF Foils Cattle Smuggling Bid, Rescues 54 Cattle Heads.

The BSF jawans recognized that one of the miscreants was carrying something on his shoulder and chased that miscreant. After a lot of effort, BSF jawans succeeded in catching the criminal carrying the consignment of gold. On opening the belt of the cloth seized from the arrested criminal, five pieces of brown taped packets containing two gold bricks and 30 gold biscuits were recovered," the BSF spokesperson said.

During interrogation, he revealed that on January 21, a person from village Angrel (Ghoshpara) came to his house and asked him to bring gold from Bangladesh, which a Bangladeshi citizen would give them. "A Bangladeshi man swam across the Ichhamati River. Crossed and handed over the gold to him near the banks of the Ichhamati River. BSF Foils Drug Smuggling Bids at International Border in West Bengal, Seizes 50 Phensedyl Bottles; 33 kg Ganja.

When they came back to the Indian side, he was informed by phone by the person who keeping an eye on the BSF sentries that they had been spotted by the BSF jawans and asked them to flee immediately," the spokesperson added. "During interrogation, he further told them that after successfully delivering the gold, he would be paid Rs 500 as labour charges," he added.

The arrested smugglers and seized gold have been handed over to DRI, Kolkata for further legal action.

On this achievement of the soldiers, the Public Relations Officer of South Bengal Frontier, A.K. Arya, DIG has expressed happiness. He has appealed to the people living on the border that if they get any information related to gold smuggling, they can give this information to BSF's 'Seema Sathi' helpline number 14419. An appropriate reward amount will be given to the person giving concrete information and his identity will be kept secret.
Charlottesville has an extra $21.7 million in its coffers, a seemingly pleasant surplus as the city prepares its budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

But City Manager Sam Sanders isnt celebrating.

Surpluses dont excite me, he told The Daily Progress.

Sanders said that roughly a third of the surplus is the result of staff vacancies at Charlottesvilles chronically understaffed City Hall. Filling those vacancies, and paying employees competitive salaries, is one of his top priorities this budget season.

On Tuesday evening, Sanders will kick off that season with a budget forum at Carver Recreation Center. There, he will be speaking with residents about the citys budget proposal, outlining his priorities and asking in which public services residents would like to see the city invest. And hell be explaining why exactly the surplus is not necessarily good news.

Sanders organized a similar event last year, hoping to educate the public on his budget proposal, a process that takes a city manager months to complete, his biggest task of the year. Last years forum was not as interactive as Sanders said he would have liked, so hes changed the format to increase community engagement.

The intention of this is to have an opportunity to hear from the public together, he said.

Feedback he receives Tuesday could meaningfully change how the city allocates its funds, Sanders said.

If I were to hear from residents that sidewalks are a top priority, that motivates me to look at sidewalks again and how were funding it, he said. That could be repeated over a number of topics.

Tuesdays feedback will indicate to Sanders what parts of his budget should be adjusted. In March, he will take the budget to City Council for approval, with Council making revisions of its own.

They rip it apart, he said. But its an organized ripping apart.

Over a series of work sessions, Council will break down the budget proposals finer points, with Sanders explaining his and city staffs thought processes when crafting the proposal.

The things we didnt put in, what are those things? What would it take to do more of those things? he said. We go through revenue, expenses, how we fund nonprofits, what we are doing to meet primary objectives in affordable housing, transportation, climate action and others.

I put it all together and we break it all apart to put it all back together again for them to vote on it in April, he said.

There isnt enough money to do everything at once, so Sanders put his objectives into different tiers. Tier 1 will receive the bulk of the citys money, with less going to Tier 2 and even less to Tier 3. His top priorities include affordable housing and organizational excellence.

The latter means investing in City Hall staff. For years, Charlottesvilles government has been severely understaffed. In what many called a dysfunctional and toxic atmosphere, city workers frequently left the job, leaving significant vacancies and not nearly enough people to respond to the requests of residents.

In 2020, there were 131 regular position vacancies at City Hall. Two years later, it increased to 221, and then 235 vacancies at the start of 2023. Charlottesville went through a number of city managers during that same time period, an indication of the turmoil that plagued City Hall for years.

With Sanders named as permanent city manager last July, the city has regained some stability, and Sanders said he wants a stable group of employees working under and around him. For the most part, achieving that stability will mean higher wages.

Weve been out of whack with the regional market for some time, he said of Charlottesvilles compensation package, as nearby localities such as Albemarle County often offer better salaries. Weve known that and havent done anything about it.

That investment would allow the city not just to attract more talented people, but to keep them. With fewer vacancies, the city will have more staff and be better able to more effectively complete their long list of responsibilities, according to Sanders.

Part of what Ive been saying since Ive been city manager is that this group of employees are very good, but theyve been through a lot, he said. Theres a lot that explains why were not performing optimally.

Does he expect to have some trouble convincing residents that the investment would be worth it?

Sure, because its going to be very expensive, he said. I want to make the connection for residents that when you complain about performance of government, you can tie that back to things, and I am offering that you can tie it back to compensation, culture and job satisfaction and happiness or lack thereof.

I ask staff that service and impact are what they eat and breath every day, and I cant expect that of them if theyre coming to work unhappy, he continued.

The $21.7 million budget surplus is an indication that, with its current compensation package, the city is struggling to attract and retain talent.

A big portion of the surplus is the number of vacancies that exist within city organization that we are struggling to fill, he said.

Digging into the surplus numbers, Sanders learned that over a third was tied to job vacancies.

Thats not a good thing, because really it means thats not a surplus. I was supposed to spend that money, I just didnt, he said. Why is it we cant fill those positions?

If Sanders can convince the public and Council that an investment in city staff will pay dividends, Charlottesville can make a meaningful step toward replenishing a government that sorely needs reinforcements, Sanders said.

Tuesdays forum will take place from 6 to 8 p.m.
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], January 22 (ANI): On the day when the Pran Pratishtha ceremony was performed in Ayodhya, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held an all-faith rally (Sanhati rally) in Kolkata on Monday.

On the occasion, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) said that the Sanhati rally showcased solidarity for all religions.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration: Devotee Suffers Heart Attack at Pran Pratishtha Event, IAF's Mobile Hospital Saves Him.

"Unity lies at the heart of all faiths! Today, at the Sanhati rally, massive crowds gathered to express support for unity of diverse beliefs alongside Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee. It was a breathtaking sight as people from various backgrounds marched together, showcasing solidarity for all religions," TMC posted on X.

Earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee informed that the Sanhati rally will cover mosques, temples, churches, and gurdwaras along the way.

Also Read | Book on Ayodhya, 'Mala', 'Diya': Gifts for Guests Who Attended Ram Mandir's Consecration Ceremony.

"Everybody is welcome to join the rally. People of all faiths will be there at the rally," she said.

Meanwhile, the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the new idol of Lord Ram was completed in Ayodhya today.

The Prime Minister, while attending the grand event in the temple town of Uttar Pradesh, said that the moment of the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol is an occasion not merely of triumph but of humility too.

"This is a moment of celebration as well as a reflection of Indian society's maturity. It is an occasion of not merely triumph but humility too. The history of the world is itself proof that many countries get strangled in their own history and such countries faced difficulties when they tried to solve their problems, but the way our country untied the knots of history is proof that our future is going to be more beautiful than our past," he said.

The PM said that the construction of the temple, which was supposed to 'set off a firestorm', is a symbol of peace, patience, harmony and the integration of the country.

"There was also a time when some people used to say, 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi' (the construction of the temple will set off a firestorm). Such people could not understand the purity of India's social spirit. The construction of this temple of Ram Lalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and coordination in Indian society. We are seeing that this construction is not giving birth to any fire, but to energy," he added.

The PM also said that Ayodhya's temple is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram.

The Prime Minister walked inside the temple premises with a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present inside the sanctorum during the rituals.

Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Sri Ram' as the ceremony was held. (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, Jan 22 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned till January 29 the hearing on Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav's petition seeking transfer of the criminal defamation complaint pending against him in a Ahmedabad court over his alleged "only Gujaratis can be thugs" remark to a place outside the state, preferably Delhi.

A bench of Justices A S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan deferred the matter after the counsel for the complainant sought time.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony: PM Narendra Modi Reaches Ayodhya for Ram Temple Consecration.

"Why should the prosecution continue when he has withdrawn the statement. You seek instructions otherwise we will exercise powers under Article 142," the bench said.

"The counsel for the respondent seeks time to seek instructions on statement filed by the petitioner (Yadav) on January 19. List on next Monday," the top court recorded in its order.

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The top court, while hearing the RJD leader's plea, had earlier stayed the proceedings in the criminal defamation complaint and issued notice to the Gujarat resident who has filed it.

The complaint against Yadav was filed under sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for alleged criminal defamation.

The Gujarat court had in August conducted a preliminary enquiry against Yadav under section 202 of the Code of Criminal Procedure and found sufficient grounds to summon him on the complaint filed by Haresh Mehta, a local businessman and activist.

According to the complaint, Yadav, while talking to the media in Patna in March 2023, had said, "Only Gujaratis can be thugs in the present situation, and their fraud will be forgiven."

"Who will be responsible if they run away with the money belonging to the LIC or banks?" the Bihar Deputy CM had allegedly asked.

Mehta claimed Yadav's comments defamed all Gujaratis.

(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 22: The Delhi Police on Monday issued a traffic advisory for Bharat Parv, scheduled to be held at Red Fort during January 23-31. Food courts and handicraft stalls will be set up at 15 August Park and Madhav Das Park for the general public, it said.

Like earlier, this edition of Bharat Parv will showcase the Republic Day tableaux, performances by Armed Forces bands, cultural performances by zonal cultural centres and state/Union Territory troupes, a pan-India food court and crafts bazaar, pavilions of state governments and central ministries, among others, it stated. Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti 2024: PM Narendra Modi To Inaugurate Nine-Day Event on Parakram Diwas at Delhi's Red Fort on January 23.

"The inaugural function of Bharat Parv will be held on Tuesday and it will be open to the general public till January 31. As per past experience, it is expected that the event will also attract a large number of visitors on all days from 12 pm to 10 pm. Many VIPs/VVIPs will also visit Red Fort on this occasion," according to the advisory.

Traffic is being diverted from Chatta Rail Crossing, Subhas Park T-point, Shanti Van Chowk and Delhi Gate, according to requirements during the period of Bharat Parv so that congestion is avoided, it said. Traffic restrictions or regulation or diversion may be imposed on Netaji Subhas Marg from Chatta Rail Chowk to Delhi Gate and Nishad Raj Marg from Shanti Van crossing to the Subhas Park T-point, the advisory said. Ram Mandir Inauguration: From Mumbai to Delhi, Diyas Light Up the Country as India Celebrates Historic Day (Watch Videos).

Many paid parking facilities are available near Red Fort and visitors and the general public can use it depending on their need. The general public has been advised to avoid the roads or stretches where there will be diversions and the area where the function is organised. Commuters going to New Delhi and Old Delhi railway stations and the ISBT should leave with sufficient time in hand to accommodate possible delays, the advisory said.

People are advised to use public transport facilities, especially the Delhi Metro, to reach the venue. Lal Quila, Jama Masjid and Kashmere Gate are the nearest metro stations that can be used to reach the Red Fort, it said. The advisory urged the public to park vehicles only at designated lots and avoid roadside parking as it hinders the normal traffic flow.

It has also asked people to inform the local police or the nearest personnel if they spot any unusual or unidentified object or person in suspicious circumstances.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jaipur, Jan 22 (PTI) A 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped and killed by her school teacher in Barmer district of Rajasthan, police said on Monday.

The body of the girl, a class 11 student, was found in a water tank, they said.

Also Read | Union Budget 2024-25 Date and Time: Know All About the Day When Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Will Present the Interim Budget.

The accused, Prahladram, went to the girl's house on Sunday morning, when her family members had gone to a wedding, and raped her. Later, he killed the girl and dumped her body in the water tank, said Surbhan Singh, Station House Officer, Bakhasar police station.

"When the girl's family members returned home, they could not find her. Later, they found her body in the water tank," Singh said.

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The accused is on the run and efforts are being made to arrest him, he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Tel Aviv [Israel], January 22 (ANI/TPS): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Monday at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem met with French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu.

At the start of their meeting, the Prime Minister asked Lecornu to convey to French President Emmanuel Macron his deep gratitude for the latter's role in delivering the medicines to the hostages in Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu noted that Israel is still waiting for proof that the medicines have reached their destination and emphasized that the implementation of the understandings must be monitored.

Also Read | Israel-Palestine Conflict: Time To Negotiate With Hamas on Hostage Exchange, Says Israeli Major General Noam Tibon.

The two sides discussed the Lebanese issue at length. The Prime Minister emphasized that the need to distance Hezbollah terrorists from the border constitutes a national goal of the State of Israel, based on the principles of UN Security Council Resolution #1701, and said that this goal can be implemented diplomatically or in other ways.

Sebastien Lecornu also met on Monday with Israel's Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant at Israel's Ministry of Defense headquarters in Tel Aviv. The Ministers held a one-on-one meeting, followed by a dialogue with professional teams.

Also Read | Pakistan on Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Inauguration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya Indicative of Growing Majoritarianism in India, Says Islamabad.

Gallant briefed Lecornu on the IDF's progress in achieving the goals of the war - namely the destruction of Hamas' governing and military capabilities, and the return of hostages. Minister Gallant emphasized that the IDF will continue operating until these are achieved.

Minister Gallant expressed his appreciation to Minister Lecornu for France's commitment to changing the security situation in southern Lebanon, and to distancing Hezbollah forces from the border.

He also emphasized the important role of France in achieving the international objective of stabilizing the security situation on the northern border, as part of the wider diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. administration.

Minister Gallant reiterated the preference of Israel to pursue the diplomatic channel, while also maintaining military readiness. Minister Gallant added that even if Hezbollah ceases fire unilaterally, Israel will not cease fire until it can guarantee the safe return of the northern communities to their homes, following a change in the security situation along the border. (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)
New Delhi [India], January 22 (ANI): Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Indian envoy to Ukraine, Harsh Kumar Jain handed over the 15th consignment of humanitarian aid to Ukraine on Friday, Embassy of Ukraine in India said on Sunday.

The Indian envoy handed over the consignment, which included ten 30 Ifl/A generators, to the Director of the "Kryla Nadiyi" Charitable Fund, Mataliya Liska, in the presence of the Head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, Maksym Kozytskyy.

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The Embassy said the generators will be provided to eight educational institutions in Lviv region to support their educational processes.

The Ukrainian Embassy also expressed its gratitude for the humanitarian aid provided by the Indian government.

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The statement said, "We express our sincere gratitude for provided humanitarian assistance during the hard times of Russian aggression. We highly appreciate the human-centric approach of the Government of India and its commitment to continue to provide humanitarian support to the people of Ukraine."

Earlier in August, India handed over the 14th consignment of humanitarian aid comprising essential medicines to crisis-hit Ukraine. The aid was handed over by Indian Ambassador to Ukraine Harsh Jain.

The consignment was handed over to Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Health, Ihor Kuzin and commenting on this, Ukrainian Minister thanked the Government of India for the assistance.

Recently, India and Ukraine held the ninth round of the India-Ukraine Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Kyiv and exchanged perspectives on the ongoing Moscow and Kyiv conflict and peace efforts.

Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (West) Sanjay Verma co-chaired the 9th Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with Ukraine's First Deputy Minister of Foreign Ministry Emine Dzhaparova, according to the statement released by MEA.

"The two sides reviewed bilateral ties in their entirety and also exchanged perspectives on the ongoing conflict and peace efforts. Global and multilateral issues of mutual interest were also on the agenda," the statement read. (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 22 (ANI): The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise Khanjar started at the Special Forces Training School in Himachal Pradesh's Bakloh. The exercise is being conducted from January 22 to February 3.

The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. It will also provide an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of cutting-edge indigenous defence equipment. The exercise is an annual event conducted alternately in the two nations.

Also Read | Pakistan on Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Inauguration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya Indicative of Growing Majoritarianism in India, Says Islamabad.

The Ministry of Defence stated in an official release, "The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism."

"The exercise will also accord an opportunity to showcase capabilities of cutting edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations," it added.

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The Indian Army contingent, comprising 20 personnel, is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), according to the press release. Meanwhile, the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by the Scorpion Brigade.

The Khanjar exercise is aimed at exchanging experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces operations in built-up areas and mountainous terrain under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will emphasise developing Special Forces skills and advanced techniques of insertion and extraction, according to the release by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Earlier, in October, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Bishkek to attend the 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) to be held under the chairmanship of Kyrgyzstan. During the visit, he met Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov and conveyed India's support for the successful Kyrgyz SCO Presidency. The two leaders discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma.

"Delighted to call on President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyz Republic. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma, defence, agriculture and investments. Conveyed India's support for the successful Kyrgyz Presidency of SCO Council of Heads of Government," he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Jaishankar also held talks with his Kyrgyzstan counterpart, Zheenbek Kulubaev about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade, economy and developmental projects.

"Good to see my old friend FM Zheenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek. Spoke about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade and economy, development projects, health and education. Also exchanged views on Afghanistan, West Asia and connectivity," he added on X. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Streaks of Light Seen in California. (Photo Credits: Video Grab)

Kathmandu, Jan 22 (PTI) People in Nepal's Madhesh province on Monday celebrated with enthusiasm and joy the consecration of 'Ram Lalla' in Ayodhya.

Nepal's Janakpurdham, the birthplace of goddess Sita, on Monday, decked up for the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, with temple authorities decorating the Janaki temple with garlands and flowers.

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Hindus in Janakpurdham, who joined the celebrations with multiple cultural and religious festivities, wrote "Jai Siyaram" with flowers.

Lord Ram's wife Seeta's other name is Janaki, daughter of King Janak of Janakpur. It is 500-odd km east of Ayodhya in India and has been a symbol of the ancient bond shared by the two countries.

Also Read | Pakistan on Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Inauguration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya Indicative of Growing Majoritarianism in India, Says Islamabad.

Houses and streets of Janakpur are being decorated with colourful lights, paper flags, banners and garlands, local authorities said.

As many as 1.25 lakh earthen lamps were lit to celebrate the auspicious occasion of 'pran pratistha'.

In Madhesh province's Sarlahi district too, people illuminated their houses, recited religious songs, and played music with the songs in praise of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, said Rakesh Mishra, central member of Janamat Party.

They also took out religious processions and offered prayers at major temples in the region.

The celebrations took place mainly in eight districts in Madhesh province -- Dhanusha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, Siraha, Saptari, Bara, Parsa and Rautahat.

Besides these eight districts people living in all the districts adjoined to the Indian border, including Sunsari, Morang, Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Banke, and Bardiya among others, also joined the celebration, he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bhopal, January 22: With the chants of "Jai Shri Ram", devotional songs and prayers, people across Madhya Pradesh celebrated the consecration of the new Ram Lalla idol at the Ayodhya temple on Monday. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav watched the consecration ceremony virtually from the Ram Raja Temple in Orchha town of MP.

Yadav was accompanied by former CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan as both of them offered prayers at the temple in Orchha, which is also called as Chhoti Ayodhya, in Niwari district of the state. Devotees believe that Lord Ram stays at Orchha during the day and goes to Ayodhya in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh at night. Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony: BJP President JP Nadda Watches Live Telecast of Pran Pratishtha at Jhandewalan Temple in Delhi (Watch Video).

Orchha town is popularly known as Raja Ram's kingdom and is believed to be the only place in the country where Lord Ram is worshipped as a beloved king and not just a god. A Guard of Honour is held thrice everyday by local police in the honour of the temple's deity, as per the temple sources.

In the morning, 'prabhat pheris' (group processions) were taken out in localities of various districts where men, women and children dressed in colourful attires and holding saffron flags sang devotional songs in praise of Lord Ram amid the beating of drums. Soon after the consecration ceremony, devotees burst firecrackers across the state to celebrate the "pran pratishtha" of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Ram Temple Consecration Ceremony: PM Narendra Modi Showers Flower Petals on Construction Workers Who Built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya (Watch Video).

Temples across MP wore a festive look with the fragrance of incense sticks filling the air around them. Since morning, people flocked temples in various cities of the state to offer prayers and greeted each other with the chants of "Jai Shri Ram" and recited 'Sundar kand', one of the chapters in the Hindu epic Ramayan devoted to Lord Hanuman.

CM Yadav on Sunday appealed to the people to make the Ram temple inauguration in Ayodhya a historic event. Schools and colleges in MP were closed on Monday, which has also been declared as a dry day. Slaughterhouses and shops selling meat and fish also remained shut.

The urban development department had issued a directive to civic bodies to ensure that meat shops and slaughterhouses remain closed on Monday. The MP government has also ordered the closure of its offices and institutions for half a day. Government offices will remain closed till 2.30 pm so that people can participate in the Ram temple consecration celebrations, said a government notification issued last week.
Chennai, January 22: Senior BJP leader and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday termed the DMK government in Tamil Nadu "anti-Hindu" for "denying" live telecasting of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram temple. Sitharaman said that the "the repression saga in Tamil Nadu continues". In a series of posts from her X handle on Monday morning, she said that people of Karunilam village in Chengalpattu district (not more than 200 houses) wanted to celebrate the pran pratishtha ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir and watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi but they were told that unless the District Collector gives permission they shall not install the LED screen.

"Inside the famous Kamakshi Kovil, which is privately held, where bhajans have started from 08:00hrs, LED screens are being removed with plain-clothed policemen. In a temple, privately held, worshippers watching the Prime Minister perform prana prathishta is a serious infringement on our right to worship. The DMK government in TN completely fails to protect citizens rights. Anti-Hindu DMK now bares its hatred for PM Narendra Modi with police force and suppresses peoples aspirations," she said in a post. Ram Temple Inauguration: Tamil Nadu Police Remove LED Screens Where FM Nirmala Sitharaman Scheduled To Watch Pran Pratishtha, Says BJP

"In Kanchipuram district alone, 466 LED screens were arranged for live telecast of Narendra Modi in Ayodhya. In more than 400 of those places the police has either confiscated the screens or deployed force to prevent the live telecast. LED suppliers are fleeing with fear. The Anti-Hindu DMK is hitting at small businesses..." the Union Finance Minister said in another post. Tamil Nadu: LED Screens Being Set up Again in Kamakshi Amman Temple Following Supreme Court, Madras High Court Orders on Prohibiting Live Telecast of Ram Mandir Inauguration (Watch Videos)

Sitharaman said: "Annadhanam is prevented in temples like Sriperumbudur Selva Vinayagar Temple held by HR&CE, privately held Molachur Karumariamman Temple and again privately held Selvizhimangalam Jambodai Perumal Temple by the TN Police. Anti Hindu DMK government continues repression using police." "In the Thovalai Murugan Temple , located in Nagercoil, permission is being denied to put up LED screens for live telecast...," she said in another post.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 22, 2024 06:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
A week after attorneys made their final written arguments regarding the custody of animals seized from the Natural Bridge Zoo last month, a Rockbridge General District Court judge ruled Friday that 39 of 96 seized animals are to return to the facility.

Judge Gregory Mooney said in his ruling that prosecutors had proved, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the animals seized from the zoo were subject to cruelty or inadequate care. But he could not find that some of the animals  11 lemur, 17 birds, four snakes, one skink, two donkeys, one sheep and one dog  required seizure.

Animals listed as exceptions shall be returned to the respondent owners, Mooney wrote.

For the remaining animals, including four giraffes that have remained at the zoo until now, the judge has ordered disposal, which under Virginia code means release to a humane society or animal shelter for adoption.

Mooney added that the court will cover the boarding costs through Friday for the animals that will remain in the commonwealths custody. But the judge denied a commonwealth request that the zoo be subject to unannounced inspections for the next five years.

The seizures led to court proceedings, during which the commonwealth, led by Senior Assistant Attorney General Michelle Welch, argued for the continued custody of the animals by the state.

Welchs witnesses testified that several deceased animals and animal parts were found in a freezer on the property. Oakland Zoo Director of Animal Welfare and Research Darren Minier, said during a hearing in December that police also found food for both animals and people in the freezer.

The list of allegations against the zoo is long. The commonwealths witnesses described birds defecating on tortoises and dead goats lying bloated in their pens during visiting hours. They testified giraffes were bred too soon after giving birth and serval kittens were sold and shipped away at just three days old.

The zoo is owned by Karl and Deborah Debbie Mogensen. Their attorneys called several zoo experts to testify on Jan. 10, day three of the couples civil trial.

Those people offered testimony that differed from the drastic conditions described in the states case. Mooney said in his ruling that, because the opinions of competing experts were in substantial conflict, the court gave careful consideration to their credibility, possible bias, and opportunity to acquire the facts on which they based their respective opinions.

Several experts testified that the animals they had seen were healthy.

Ken Alfieri, former zoo director and current animal transporter, testified he had once been asked to transport a primate to the Natural Bridge Zoo from private zoo owner and animal trainer Mahamayavi Bhagavan Doc Antle, one of the people featured on the much-watched Tiger King Netflix documentary.

Welch asked Alfieri and other defense witnesses whether they had helped the Mogensens move a 39-year-old African elephant off the property on Nov. 29. He said he had not.

Welch asked Gretchen Sasha Mogensen, the zoo owners daughter, whether she had been tipped off that law enforcement were planning to visit the property, and whether she had facilitated Ashas move to prevent the elephants seizure. She testified that she had not.

In search warrant affidavits, confidential informants and undercover officers said that, while at the Natural Bridge Zoo, Asha had marks on her skin consistent with being beaten or prodded. They also observed her carrying too much weight when visitors rode on her back.

Sandra Clinger, president of the Florida-based Elephant Advocacy Project, said she remains concerned about Ashas care. She told The Roanoke Times earlier this month that, in the past, elephants have died shortly after their arrival at Two Tails Ranch.

Clinger described the facility as a fake retirement sanctuary, where visitors are permitted to feed and bathe the elephants. The advocate said the animals there are controlled with a bull hook, which Ashas handler used regularly, according to search warrant affidavits.

Its just another way to exploit their elephants for profit, Clinger said in an interview.

According to the facilitys website, owner Patricia Zerbini is the ninth generation of the Zerbini Family to work with exotic animals. She opened the ranch to the public in 2009 with a focus on education for elephant lovers as well as professionals.

But Clinger said she doesnt understand why the Mogensens would dare to move Asha, especially if she was ill.

Would you add to her stress level by putting her on a transport trailer when she is not a traveling circus elephant? This is not a normal thing for her. Its going to be an extremely stressful thing for her to have to be loaded onto a trailer, Clinger said. She has not been around other elephants. Now shes in a place where theres lots of other elephants. Theres lots of activity there. Theres lots of other people there. These are Asian elephants, not African elephants. They speak different languages. How is this improving situation? Theres none of that explained. This is a physical move that the timing of which is very interesting.

Asha is not listed among the eight elephants, all Asian, on the ranchs website. Zerbini did not immediately respond Friday to an inquiry from The Roanoke Times.
Manipur Police on Monday seized drugs worth around Rs 11.65 crore in the international market from a 28-year-old youth while checking vehicles at Tera Urak in Bishnupur district, police said.
A massive blast was heard on Monday morning at an industrial park in the central Iranian city of Garmsar, Semnan province, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported.
New York, January 22: Michelle Young, a 34-year-old single mother and US Army Staff Sergeant, committed suicide on Saturday, January 20, according to a report. The latter was described 'beautiful soul' by those who knew her well. Young has a 12-year-old daughter named Gracie. Young sent a heartfelt birthday greeting for her daughter on Instagram only a few days before her suicide.

In addition to her military service, Young was also a social media influencer with over 100,000 followers on Instagram. She promoted better mental health care for US Army veterans and modelled for fashion labels using this platform. YouTube Bodybuilder Joestethics Dies: Fitness Influencer Jo Lindner Passes Away Aged 30 of Aneurysm.

She wrote a post in September, during Suicide Prevention Week, in which she discussed her personal experiences and disclosed that her elder brother had committed suicide when she was just 14 years old. She urged others who were in need to ask for help. Even though Young has openly advocated for mental health, it is still unknown what exactly led to her suicide.

"Our good friend and athlete Michelle was taken from us by suicide. 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. We will never fill the gaps in our hearts and will always be left with questions why", Young's friend Sarah Maine wrote on GoFundMe Page. Leena Nagwanshi Dies: 22-Year-Old Instagram Influencer From Chhattisgarh Allegedly Commits Suicide by Hanging; Police Launch Probe.

"Michelle is survived by her daughter Gracie, who was her whole world. NOTHING can replace her mother, but the purpose of this is to help her daughter Gracie with anything she may need. We know Michelle would appreciate us all looking out for her now", she added in her post. On Young's GoFundMe page, more than $30,000 has been donated in reaction to this tragedy, with the money intended to help her daughter Gracie directly.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 22, 2024 12:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
New Delhi, January 22: Israeli Major General Noam Tibon has said that time has come to negotiate with the Hamas group over a possible hostage deal to bring back the Israelis, media reports said. Its time to bring them back otherwise, they will all come back in coffins or not at all, Noam Tibon told an Israeli public radio station. Israel-Palestine War: Benjamin Netanyahu Rejects Hamas Conditions for Hostage Deal Involving Withdrawal of Israeli Troops From Gaza, Says Report

We will have sent for generations to come a message to the citizens of Israel that they live in an insecure state, and a message to mothers who send their children to the army, that if your child falls into captivity, he will probably not return, and this is not overlooked, so it must be concluded. A deal now, Tibon said. Earlier, a one week ceasefire from November 24 to December 1 last year was observed between Hamas and Israel in which prisoners were exchanged by both sides. Israel-Hamas Conflict: Palestinian Death Toll in Gaza Soars Past 25,000 With No End to War in Sight

On October 7, last year, Hamas attacked the southern parts of Israel killing at least 1200 people, taking over 200 people as hostages. Hamas also released 105 Israeli hostages during the one week truce between the conflicting parties. Israel has killed nearly 25,105 Palestinians since October 7 while injuring 62,681-- mostly infants and women.
Angry residents of a town in Mexico called Lerdo de Tejeda in Vera Cruz state attacked police officers and overturned a police car. They also attacked the city hall. The attacks came after police allegedly shot and killed a 27-year-old man, leading to four police officers being investigated.

The citizens who clashed with police in Mexico were described as neighbors of the victim, Brando Arellano Cruz, who was shot to death by police while he was driving on his way to his grandmother's house. Reports indicated that Arellano Cruz did not stop when he reached a police checkpoint, according to Sky News.

His family speculated that he did not stop his car because local residents mistrusted the security forces and that many in the Mexican town were afraid of them.

"Once he had parked, they opened fire against the car and killed him instantly, shooting him in the jugular like cowards," the victim's father, Delfino Arellano Ramirez, told reporters. "My son died instantly."

He arrived at the scene after the incident and saw his son already dead, telling reporters about his experience, saying, "I saw that my son was on his face and was already dripping blood."

This led an angry crowd of residents to target the officers allegedly involved in the shooting. They attacked police cars and even broke the windows of the town hall. One officer reportedly fled the scene, while four people were taken to a hospital by Vera Cruz state police.

Soon after Arellano Cruz's death, Maria Esther Arroniz Lopez, mayor of Lerdo de Tejada, released a statement that said that she was "deeply sorry" for the loss of the young man but added she "strongly condemned" the protesters, who she said "took advantage of this misfortune."

"A group of people agitate citizenship to feed hatred, vandalism, and social instability," she added in her statement. "The damages caused by the fire in part of the municipal palace, two patrols, and a transport unit of the municipal DIF, are also not justified. Violence is not the answer; in these times where we must stand together and respect a family's pain."

READ MORE: Gulf Cartel Leader 'La Kena' Captured in Mexico

Four Mexico Police Officers Being Investigated Over Death of Resident

Those same people who were hospitalized are all police officers and they are now under investigation over the shooting, per the Associated Press. The Veracruz Public Security Department is leading that investigation.

However, the identities of the four officers that the Veracruz Public Security Department is investigating have not been released so far.

Security forces have been known to act without impunity in the town and this has led to many residents being afraid of dealing with them.

Alleged Victim of 4 Mexico Police Officers' Attack Last Spoke With His Father

Delfino Arellano Ramirez also revealed that it was he who spoke with his son last. He stated that his son called him and told him that he was being followed by police. Arellano Ramirez then admitted that his son stopped the car when he arrived at his grandmother's house but then he was shot.

The father said he heard two shots, according to VOA News. He, his wife, and his daughter, soon rushed to the scene, with the victim's mother and father rebuking the police officers. However, the officers intimidated them and told them that they had nothing to do with what happened.

READ MORE: Mexico Kidnapping: Mourners Gathered for American Man Killed by the Gulf Cartel

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH:Mexico police set on fire during protests against fatal beating - Al Jazeera English
In a bold move, Argentina has detained and expelled the wife and children of Adolfo Macias Villamar, a notorious Ecuador gang leader known as Fito, according to BBC.

This action, carried out by Argentine authorities, demonstrates the nation's commitment to combating organized crime and its stance as a "hostile territory for narco-criminals," as declared by Argentina's security minister.

Fito, who recently escaped from an Ecuadorean prison, is evading a nationwide search that has prompted Ecuador to declare a state of emergency.

Argentine Security Minister Patricia Bullrich emphasized their refusal to be a haven for criminals during a press conference where she revealed that Adolfo Macias family members and associates, totaling eight individuals, were detained in the region of Cordoba and subsequently deported to Ecuador.

READ NEXT: Notorious Ecuador Gang Leader Fito Escapes Prison

Adolfo Macias Family's Background and Deportation

"We are proud that Argentina was a hostile territory for a group of drug dealers who could've come to settle here. Mr Fito had a sentence of 38 years, and he escaped, leaving a trail of blood and death in Ecuador," Bullrich said.

Fito's wife, Mariela Macias, along with her three children, a nephew, a family friend, and a nanny, were among those deported, Al Jazeera reported.

Mariela had arrived in Argentina just before her husband's escape, and in December, the couple had purchased a house in an exclusive neighborhood of Cordoba using cash.

Authorities are investigating whether Fito himself is in Argentina or if he had only sent his family ahead.

Juan Pablo Quinteros, an official in Cordoba, confirmed the cancellation of the Adolfo Macias family's temporary residence permit, enabling their detention and expulsion.

Interior Minister Guillermo Francos asserted Argentina's commitment to not becoming a refuge for criminals.

Fito's Criminal Network and Escalating Violence in Ecuador

Fito, the leader of the Los Choneros gang, is implicated in earlier prison violence and linked to the murder of Fernando Villavicencio, an anti-corruption presidential candidate, per KBC.

His escape from a facility in Guayaquil triggered Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa to declare war on gangs, leading to heightened security conditions and increased violence by criminal organizations.

Drug cartels responded with threats to civilians and security forces, taking hostages, setting off explosives, and launching attacks on various fronts.

The recent storming of a television station and the subsequent shooting of a prosecutor underscore the severity of the situation, BARRON's noted.

President Noboa has declared war to recover a nation deeply affected by gang-related turmoil.

"We have a war to fight and a very battered nation to recover," Noboa said.

Ecuador's efforts to regain control over its prisons after rioting has been challenged by the elusive Fito, prompting the president to call on Colombia to assist in the search for the fugitive.

Plans to deport foreign criminals are part of Ecuador's strategy to address prison overcrowding, reflecting a broader commitment to restoring stability in the face of organized crime.

The expulsion of Adolfo Macias family from Argentina sends a clear message about the region's united front against criminal activities and its determination to uphold the rule of law.

READ MORE: Fear Cripples Port-au-Prince Amid Increasing Gang Violence

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Relatives of Ecuador drug lord arrested: Family members deported from Argentina - From Al Jazeera English
Four Las Vegas teens have now been indicted by a grand jury over the deadly beating of a 17-year-old boy late last year. The suspects and the victim all studied at the same high school.

The four Las Vegas high school students were identified as Dontral Beaver, 16; Damien Hernandez, 18; Treavion Randolph, 16; and Gianni Robinson, 17. All of them were charged as adults with second-degree murder and battery charges over the death of Jonathan Lewis Jr. last November.

There were nine arrests made over the death of the Las Vegas teen, but only four were charged as adults so far. The Washington Times reported that the remaining five suspects are currently in the juvenile court system. They could still be transferred to a higher court under Nevada law.

Under Nevada law, teens 13 and older can face adult murder charges, with some of the suspects in that beating of Lewis being in the age range of 13 - 17 when the incident happened, according to authorities.

The Beating That Led to the Death of Nevada High School Teen

All four suspects, Damien Hernandez, Dontral Beaver, Treavion Randolph, and Gianni Robinson, appeared in court to receive their charges over the deadly beating, which was captured via cellphone video. While they were charged with second-degree murder, they were also charged with conspiracy to commit battery, a gross misdemeanor.

However, how did such a heinous incident such as this happen? It all began with the victim's vape pen and wireless headphones, setting up a fight outside school grounds between the Las Vegas high school students.

READ MORE: Nevada Man Attacks Judge During Sentencing in Las Vegas

Las Vegas police stated that a total of 10 students between the ages of 13 and 17 participated in the beating in an alleyway near their school, Rancho High School. They reportedly set the fight up on November 1 after Lewis's vape pen and headphones were stolen. He walked into the alleyway with a friend ready to confront those he believed stole his belongings.

However, according to the Associated Press, cellphone video showed Lewis taking his shirt off and ready for a fight, but this was when the 10 suspects jumped on him and began beating and kicking him while he was down. Nine of them have been arrested but the 10th student is still at large.

Protesters Gather Outside Courthouse To Demand Justice for Slain Las Vegas High School Teen

During the hearing that saw the four teens being charged as adults, several protesters gathered outside the courthouse in Las Vegas, Nevada, demanding justice for the victim, Jonathan Lewis Jr.

"I have a 20-year-old son who was bullied and a husband who was murdered," one protester told 3 News, an NBC affiliate. "We are here to bring attention to the community. We want justice for Jonathan Lewis Junior."

Bail has been set for all four defendants, with Damien Hernandez now out on bail while the other three defendants are still in custody with bail set at $100,000.

READ MORE: Lauren Boebert Sex Scandal: MAGA Republican Says She Broke Up With Man She Fondled Inside a Denver Theater

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Las Vegas teens charged in deadly beating near high school expected in court Tuesday - 8 News Now - Las Vegas
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once considered Donald Trump's main rival in the Republican presidential primary, has dropped his 2024 presidential campaign, according to CNN.

The announcement, via a video posted online, follows DeSantis' disappointing second-place finish in the recent Iowa Republican caucuses.

DeSantis expressed his dedication to the Republican cause, endorsing former President Donald Trump in the video.

"I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement," DeSantis stated.

The Florida Governor acknowledged past disagreements with Trump, particularly on the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the elevation of Anthony Fauci, but emphasized Trump's superiority over the current President, Joe Biden.

The departure of DeSantis leaves former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley as the primary alternative to Trump in the race.

However, with limited time to consolidate support and catch up to the frontrunner, Haley faces a challenging path.

READ NEXT: Ted Cruz Endorses Donald Trump

High Expectations and Harsh Realities for DeSantis

A year ago, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis had ambitious plans for his 2024 presidential campaign, envisioning triumphs in Iowa and New Hampshire to secure the GOP nomination, POLITICO noted.

However, after a disappointing second-place showing in Iowa and poor polling in New Hampshire, DeSantis announced his exit from the presidential race and endorsed former President Donald Trump.

In a statement, DeSantis cited the lack of a clear path to victory as the reason for stepping down.

The end of DeSantis' presidential aspirations is a setback for a candidate who aimed to leverage his success in Florida to become a national figure within the Republican Party.

Despite his record and substantial fundraising, DeSantis faced challenges in connecting with voters personally and struggled to shake off negative perceptions.

Critics point to political missteps, funding mismanagement, and a failure to surround himself with experienced advisers as contributing factors to DeSantis' decline in the race.

His inner circle was criticized for lacking national experience and being disconnected from the broader political landscape.

Dennis Lennox, a Republican operative, cited these issues as examples of political malpractice.

Initially seen as a rising conservative star, DeSantis' 2024 presidential campaign faltered as he faced competition from Trump, who ultimately garnered stronger support among Republican voters.

The former president's enduring popularity was a key factor that DeSantis failed to overcome.

Whit Ayres, a pollster who worked on DeSantis' gubernatorial campaign in 2018, noted that DeSantis struggled to capture a distinct market of "Maybe Trump" voters. This segment figures like Nikki Haley successfully tapped into.

The unexpected influence of Trump's legal challenges, including criminal indictments, further solidified his support among Republicans, making it challenging for DeSantis to carve out a niche in the crowded field.

Ron DeSantis had aligned himself with Trump early in the race, expressing skepticism about legal actions against the former president.

Donald Trump Reacts to Ron DeSantis' Endorsement

Former President Donald Trump expressed his honor at receiving Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' endorsement, Fox News reported.

"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," Trump said.

DeSantis justified his endorsement of Trump by emphasizing the need to avoid reverting to the "old Republican guard" represented by Nikki Haley.

With Trump leading in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire, the former president acknowledged DeSantis' endorsement and retired the nickname "Ron DeSanctimonious," previously used during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Ron DeSantis' endorsement marks a significant development in the Republican primary race, further solidifying Trump's position as the frontrunner.

READ MORE: Ron DeSantis Net Worth

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: BREAKING NEWS: DeSantis Drops Out Of Presidential Race And Endorses Trump - From Forbes Breaking News
Peru President Dina Boliarte is not very popular in the Andean region of Ayacucho, where 10 protesters were killed in 2022. However, she still visited the area but was soon attacked physically by a woman who was married to one of the protesters who were slain shortly after she came to power.

President Dina Boluarte was in Ayacucho to participate in laying the first paving stone of a road in three of the districts of the region. This was when a woman ducked under a truck parked where the president was standing with her entourage and approached her.

According to La Prensa Latina, footage from a local news station showed that despite her being surrounded by security and members of the Peruvian National Police (PNP), the woman grabbed the president and shook her. This was when security officials intervened and scuffled with the woman before taking her away.

Reports stated that the woman revealed that she was the wife of one of the protesters who were killed by authorities in Ayacucho during the anti-government demonstrations in 2022, shortly after former President Pedro Castillo was ousted from office and replaced by his vice president, Dina Boluarte.

The 2022 anti-government protests led to the deaths of ten people in Ayacucho, which was a district where Castillo had been very popular. He was removed by Congress following his failed self-coup in December 2022.

Peru Woman Calls President Dina Boluarte a Murderer To Her Face

When the incident occurred, President Dina Boluarte was reportedly throwing out candy as part of the ceremony to commemorate the new road. This was when the woman who identified herself as Ruth Baracena evaded security and approached her.

READ MORE: Peru: President Dina Boluarte Responsible for Deaths of Protesters, Says Top Prosecutor

"Dina is a murderer!" she was heard shouting as security officials led her away. "My husband was murdered here. They killed my husband, and they want me to calm down?"

Videos from the incident went viral in Peru and they showed that Barcena continued pushing up against security officials, shouting "Dina is a murderer!" Several other people in attendance agreed as the violent suppression of the anti-government protests left deep scars in Ayacucho.

According to DW, Boluarte has already faced a constitutional complaint and investigation on allegations of "genocide, qualified homicide and serious injuries." She continues to deny these allegations.

Peru Prime Minister Reacts To Attack on President Dina Boluarte in Ayacucho

Soon after the attack, Prime Minister Jorge Otarola released a statement on social media and condemned it, 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."

Reuters reported that this condemnation was followed by the Interior Ministry of Peru, which vowed to launch an investigation into the matter and identify the people responsible for the breach in security.

READ MORE: Peru: Stealing Cell Phones Might Land You Life in Prison

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Dina Boluarte sworn in as Peru's first female President | World News | English News | WION
After saying Joe Biden is mentally unfit for office thanks to his gaffes, Donald Trump once again confused one political opponent for another. This time, Nikki Haley did not let that one slip as she blasted the ex-POTUS and questioned his mental fitness.

Trump has been saying that his top rival, President Joe Biden, is too old and mentally unfit for office, even though he is just three years younger. The ex-president recently had gaffs that would rival his successor, though, including claiming that he defeated Barack Obama in an election (he defeated Hillary Clinton, not Barack Obama in 2016, as Trump claimed), and blasted Jeb Bush's policies as president, even though Jeb Bush was never president, possibly confusing the former Florida governor for his brother, ex-President George W. Bush, another Trump critic.

His latest Gaffe is regarding January 6, claiming Haley was "in charge of security" at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. This claim, which has been debunked several times, was usually for then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, according to Vanity Fair.

"They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi," said Nikki Haley while campaigning in Keen, New Hampshire. "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."'

"My parents are up in age, and I love them dearly," she added. "But when you see them hit a certain age, there is a decline. That's a fact - ask any doctor, there is a decline."'

She continued by giving another example of Trump's declining mental fitness, saying, "He got confused and said he was running against Obama - he never ran against Obama!" Nikki Haley, who has been advocating for "new generational leadership," added, "Don't put our country at risk like this."

"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 blasted her former boss. "We can't."

READ MORE: Donald Trump Lawyer Alina Habba Scolded for Not Knowing 'Evidence 101'

What Did Donald Trump Claim About Nikki Haley?

Donald Trump claimed that Haley, who was not part of the Trump administration anymore at that time, offered security for the Capitol to Hailey and claimed, , "They destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it."

The absurd claim that was originally attributed to Pelosi was investigated by a special House committee empaneled to probe the January 6 Capitol Insurrection and it found no evidence of Trump's claims, prompting the former president to conveniently claim that the evidence had been deleted.

Former Donald Trump Lawyer Admits Ex-POTUS Might Land in Jail

Soon after leaving Donald Trump, attorney Joe Tacopina sat down with Rev. Al Sharpton on MSNBC Saturday and admitted that the former president's chances in his federal cases are bleak.

"The two federal cases are serious cases," the former Trump attorney said. "And I think they're they're not to be taken lightly."

This led Sharpton to ask Tacopina, "Is it possible Donald Trump could end up convicted of one of these cases in your mind?" To this, the lawyer answered, "Absolutely, You have a jury of 12 who's going to ultimately decide this."

READ MORE: Donald Trump Gets Laughed at in Court During Latest Rape Trial in New York

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Trump STUNNED by Nikki Haley Taking it TO HIS THROAT - MeidasTouch
A violent incident unfolded in North Austin, Texas, as a knife-wielding man embarked on a deadly stabbing spree, resulting in one woman's tragic death, according to KVUE.

The chaos began around 11:30 PM Saturday at a residence on Uttimer Lane near East Parmer Lane, leaving several victims in its wake.

According to the Austin Police Department (APD), the situation was initially reported when a man called the Texas police, revealing that he had been stabbed in the stomach and was bleeding profusely.

The caller also informed the authorities that the suspect remained inside the residence with a woman.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers encountered one victim outside the home, gathering crucial information.

Inside, they heard distressing screams, prompting them to force entry.

Inside, they discovered a Texas man wielding a knife and holding a woman who appeared to have sustained stab wounds.

Swift action by the Texas police officers involved resulted in the Texas man being shot, allowing them to safely escort the victims out of the house.

Regrettably, further exploration of the residence revealed another woman who had succumbed to fatal stab wounds.

Interim Police Chief Robin Henderson commended the officers for their heroic response, which likely prevented additional loss of life.

"I would like to highlight the heroic actions of our officers, who acted swiftly and likely prevented further loss of life," Henderson said.

Two victims with stab wounds were transported to a local hospital, where they are currently in stable condition.

The Texas man, also injured, is receiving medical attention and is reported to be in stable condition. The APD is currently uncertain about the relationship between the suspect and the victims.

READ NEXT: Texas: 3 Injured After Police Involved Shooting

Details of the Fatal Stabbing and Police Response

The first injured woman was successfully removed from the home, and three unharmed children present in the residence were safely evacuated.

Tragically, a second woman with stab wounds was discovered in a bedroom and, despite officers' attempts at life-saving measures, succumbed to her injuries.

Henderson confirmed that the officers involved in the incident did not sustain injuries, per KXAN.

The three Texas police officers discharged their firearms, with respective service durations of four years, more than five years, and eight months.

As part of standard protocol, these officers will be placed on administrative duty.

The entire incident was captured on body cameras, and the footage is expected to be released within ten business days, adhering to APD policy.

The APD will conduct both a criminal investigation through the special investigations unit in collaboration with the Travis County District Attorney's office and an administrative investigation by the Internal Affairs Unit in coordination with the Office of Police Oversight.

Community Reacts to Texas Fatal Stabbing

Neighbors, like Almadelia Rojas, were startled by the incident, attributing initial sounds to fireworks before realizing the severity of the situation, CBS Austin noted.

"I think it was the fireworks," she said, adding that when she heard more, she realized it was not.

Rojas, expressing fear and concern, highlighted the unexpected nature of the violence in their typically friendly neighborhood.

Expressing her heartbreak, Rojas mentioned her familiarity with the children in the affected home and shared the sentiment of sadness and disbelief within the community.

"I never see things like that. So the neighbors they're very nice," she said, stating that she always talks to them.

The Texas stabbing incident has left neighbors grappling with the aftermath and questioning the reasons behind such a tragic event.

"I feel so sad because they're very nice," Rojas said. "I don't even know who did that or why they did that."

READ MORE: Missouri Teacher Arrested for Attempted Murder

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Man holding knife shot by APD following stabbing spree that left 1 dead, 2 hurt in North Austin - From KVUE
One of the most successful comedians in the world is headed back to the Lehigh Valley.

Gabriel Iglesias, perhaps better known as Fluffy, will be making his way back to Bethlehems Southside a little over a year after his last visit. Hell be stopping into the Wind Creek Event Center for a show on Aug. 30, tickets for which go on sale on Friday.
A Sinn Fein Member of Parliament in Westminster will soon be seeking the votes of Laois people in her bid to win a seat in the European Parliament.

Michelle Gildernew, the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP, is wants her party's nomination to be a second candidate in the Midlands Northwest constituency in the upcoming European elections which take place in June.

The Northern Ireland politician holds the seat that was won by Provisional IRA hunger striker Bobby Sands a month before he died in the H-Blocks in 1981.

Ms Gildernew has been an SF public representative in the North for 25 years as an MP and an MLA. She was first elected to the British House of Parliament in 2001. She lost the seat in 2015 but was re-elected in 2017. Like all Sinn Fein MPs, she does not take her seat at Westminster.

"Ireland needs to be at the fore in setting the direction of the European Union in the years ahead and I want to play a role in making that happen, by bringing my experience of negotiation and dealing with EU institutions as a former Agriculture Minister to the job of standing up for Irish interests in the European Parliament," Ms Gildernew said.

Sinn Fein MEP for Midlands Northwest Chris MacManus welcomed that she would be joining him on the ticket.

Michelle has the skills and experience to be an excellent representative for the Irish people on the European stage.



I believe a strong Sinn Fein team can transform the Midlands Northwest. Our region has tonnes of potential but it needs voices that will stand up for workers and families. It is our ambition in Sinn Fein to win two seats in Midlands Northwest and deliver the change that people seek, he said.

Laois was taken out of the Midlands Northwest constituency at the 2019 European election and included in Ireland South. It will be added back in at the June 2024 European Elections on the recommendation of Ireland's Electoral Commission.

Apart from Mr McManus, the MidlandsNorth-West is represented in the European Parliament by Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, Independent, Maria Walsh and Colm Markey both Fine Gael.


The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) begins a two-week farm safety inspection campaign with a focus on the safe management of livestock during calving season when the risk of injury to farmers increases significantly.

The HSA says that in the last 5 years, 80 people have lost their lives in farm-related work activity in Ireland. Of these fatalities, 18 involved working with livestock.

It says that in 2023 there were 16 farming fatalities and 5 of these involved livestock.

The HSA outlines key questions to ask whilst working with livestock:

- Is there a plan in place to minimise the risk of attack?

- Has an adequate physical barrier been established between the farmer and the freshly calved cow when tagging, treating, and handling calves?

- Is there adequate lighting in the yard and farm buildings?

- Do you need help? Are the extra resources trained and experienced?

- Are handling facilities including calving boxes adequate for your herd size?

- Are you wearing arm length gloves and washable protective clothing and boots to avoid zoonotic infections during calving?

- Are facilities and procedures adequate for loading and unloading animals?

The HSA says many farmers suffer serious or fatal injuries while attending cows at calving time. Work practices such as taking a newborn calf from a cow, hand milking, navel dipping, and stomach tubing pose a risk of injury.

Pat Griffin is a Senior Inspector with the HSA.

The agriculture sector can be a hazardous working environment and working with livestock continues to be a significant trigger in work-related fatalities on Irish farms. Farmers should review the risks, ensuring appropriate controls for safety are in place. Farmers should also monitor and manage their fatigue and stress levels at this time of year. These steps can prevent serious injury and even death.

Never turn your back on cows with newborn calves. The cow may perceive you as a threat and attack. We know that long hours and prolonged night work increases the risk of accidents during this busy time due to fatigue.

 We advise that if you are fatigued, you should seek assistance and get more rest. We encourage farmers to read our guidance and put preventative control measures in place to ensure safety on their farms during this calving season, said Mr Griffin.

The two-week farm safety inspection campaign began on Monday, January 22.

To avail of more advice and guidance material in relation to livestock and many other farm safety hazards visit the HSA website at www.hsa.ie
'The future of Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Abbeyleix hospitals are now secure for future generations'.

That's the headline on a new statement from Laois Offaly TD and Minister of State Sean Fleming who is 'also' pleased that the Government continues to make significant investment in healthcare in Laois.

14 million has been funded to build a new respiratory assessment unit, extend the paediatric unit, re-design the maternity ward and install specialised units.

There are now 893 staff working in Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, which is an increase of 143 additional staff, in recent years.

This includes 74 extra nursing staff, bringing the total nursing staff up to 365. There are now 112 doctors in the hospital, which is an increase of 16 doctors.

Construction is well underway on a major new 7 million extension to Mountmellick hospital.

A new 11-bed Transitional Care Unit was recently opened at Abbeyleix hospital, which will help people transitioning from hospital care and intensive post-acute care, before they return home.

This has been made possible as a result of major investment by the Government in healthcare services and facilities in Laois, said the Fianna Fail Minister of State.

The TD made the comments soon after the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly congratulated staff at Portlaoise hospital on the 'enormous efforts' made in tackling waiting lists.

The HSE previously made concerted efforts to downgrade Portlaoise hospital by 2022 and shut Abbeyleix hospital in 2011.
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PROTESTERS marched their way through Roscrea, last Saturday to protest the housing of international protection applicants in the sole hotel in the Tipperary town.

Captured photos and videos depict hundreds of protesters marching through the town as they articulate their objection to the closure of Racket Hall Hotel.

The protest route commenced from the hotel on the Old Dublin Road, culminating in speakers addressing the assembly on Castle Street. Leading the procession were individuals carrying a banner with the slogan 'Ireland is full', among others, including: 'We want action not promises' and 'It could be your town next'.

The crowd were then addressed by a number of speakers, including Independent Tipperary TDs Mattie McGrath and Michael Lowry.

James Kirwin, a vocal protester, stated on RTE Radio 1 last Monday that their issue is not with the asylum seekers, but rather with the government. "The hotel is a huge part of this town, it's the only hotel we have left," he stated.

"This is an action against the government of the Republic of Ireland," he added. "Roscrea is now holding 85% of asylum seekers in Tipperary, [and] the knock-on effect is just huge".

Craig Phelan, another protester, spoke of their determination to continue the protest, saying: "Our protest will continue until someone from that government comes to speak to us. The people of Roscrea won't allow it to continue.

"We have done loads, more than our share; it has to be capped. Let the people already here integrate into the town properly."

Regarding the housing of asylum seekers, Minister O'Gorman explained on RTE Radio 1, that those to be housed in Racket Hall Hotel will be families and female applicants.

He acknowledged the distress experienced by asylum seekers, particularly children witnessing scuffles between protesters and gardai, especially after the arrest on one protester.
The President and Taoiseach have led tributes to Senator David Norris as he formally announced his retirement from political life after 36 years.

Mr Norris, a colourful activist for decades in Ireland, campaigned to abolish Irelands anti-homosexuality laws in the 1980s and pushed for progress on LGBT rights.

He was first elected to the Seanad in 1987 and has been returned in each of the nine elections since then, making him Irelands longest-serving senator.

The independent senator for Trinity also holds the longest continuous period of service in the upper house of the Oireachtas.

Senator David Norris's last speech in the Seanad Eireann Chamber. Senator Norris has formally resigned after 36 years, submitting his resignation to An Cathaoirleach, Senator Jerry Buttimer, after the Order of Business today. #SeeForYourself @SenDavidNorris pic.twitter.com/0lW0nI9xK7  Houses of the Oireachtas  Tithe an Oireachtais (@OireachtasNews) January 22, 2024

On Monday in the Seanad chamber, his fellow senators described him as the lily amongst the briars, one of Irelands finest debaters and a champion for the under-privileged.

His knowledge of and love for the works of Irish writer James Joyce were also praised.

In his final address in the Seanad chamber, Mr Norris said he wished to use the time to call for peace for Palestinians.

Mr Norris, who speaks Hebrew, said: What is happening to the inhabitants of Gaza is appalling and cannot be allowed to continue.

Mans inhumanity to man is our greatest shame and I have to say also that it goes completely against the Jewish ethic which is LChaim  to life.

President Higgins has sent a message to Senator David Norris to mark the occasion of Senator Norris' retirement from the Seanad following 36 years of public service pic.twitter.com/BaBzyCWVNB  President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) January 22, 2024

This present government under (Benjamin) Netanyahu has committed them instead of to life, to death. To death in overwhelming numbers for the unfortunate trapped citizens of Gaza. I deplore it completely.

He also said that he will be campaigning for a Yes vote in the upcoming referenda on amending the Irish constitution.

He thanked his parliamentary assistant Miriam Smith, his election agent Brian Murray, the graduates who voted for him over the years, and his fellow colleagues in the Seanad.

Cathaoirleach Jerry Buttimer said that President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar had conveyed their appreciation to Mr Norris.

Mr Higgins said he had an illustrious career and a courage beyond the ordinary, describing him as a champion of equality, diversity that will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr Varadkar praised his campaigning on behalf of LGBT issues, women and minority groups, and said he showed true leadership standing up for causes that were unpopular, poorly understood, but above all appealing to our best instincts as human beings.

Mr Buttimer, who is gay, said he owed him a huge debt of gratitude; Mr Norris was the first openly gay person to be elected to public office in Ireland.

Your passion hasnt diminished as we can see from that final contribution, Mr Buttimer added.

As a member of the house, you have sponsored 34 Bills, and one as recently as February last year on domestic violence, which speaks to your lifetime commitment on social issues.

Your Bills covered a wide, diverse range of topics, yet your primary focus was on issues on human rights and equalities  from the abolition of the death penalty, housing and homelessness, disability rights, mental health, the protection of the native Irish honey bee and the prohibition of conversion therapies.

Earlier today, Senator David Norris resigned from Seanad Eireann after 36 years. Pictured here with Cathaoirleach Jerry Buttimer, Miriam Gordon Smith & staff and colleagues of #SeanadEireann. #SeeForYourself @SenDavidNorris Photo Gallery  https://t.co/kksQ6I0sTd pic.twitter.com/ombq1gKJVl  Houses of the Oireachtas  Tithe an Oireachtais (@OireachtasNews) January 22, 2024

Fianna Fail senator Denis ODonovan said that when Mr Norris came out as gay about 50 years ago it was a courageous thing to do and wasnt an easy decision due to societys attitudes at the time.

The former cathaoirleach said his contributions in the chamber were forthright and he didnt suffer fools gladly.

Recalling the 2013 referendum in which people voted narrowly to retain the Seanad, Mr ODonovan said that if it was not for David Norris and other independents, this chamber would go back to a ballroom.

Fine Gael senator Paddy Burke said that Mr Norris had fought many battles in this house, sometimes alone, and said he had a way with words as one of the finest debaters in this country.

Former justice minister and senator Michael McDowell said Mr Norris has championed the causes he believed in, and said that Irish society had been transformed in the years since he first became a senator.
A man in his 50s who has admitted killing a pensioner but denies his murder will go on trial on Wednesday at the Central Criminal Court.

Patrick McDonagh (52) with an address at Whitechapel Road, Clonsilla, Dublin 15 is charged with murdering Peter McDonald (77) on Whitechapel Road on July 25 2020.

When arraigned before the Central Criminal Court this afternoon (Monday January 22), Mr McDonagh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to Mr McDonald's manslaughter.

The plea was not accepted by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and Mr Justice Paul Burns swore a jury of nine men and three women to hear the trial.

Mr Justice Burns informed the jury panel that both the accused man and the deceased were living in the Blanchardstown area at the time.

The judge said the case may run until February 7 and asked the 12 jurors to make themselves available until that date.

The jury panel was also told that there were a number of civilian witnesses in the case.

The trial will start on Wednesday morning at 11am before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath.
A man in his 60s was killed in Northern Ireland in a crash involving two vans and a fallen tree at the height of Storm Isha.

The crash happened in Limavady, Co Derry on Sunday as high winds battered the island of Ireland.

The man who died was driving a van that hit the fallen tree and another van on the Broad Road at around 9.45pm. The male driver of the second vehicle was taken to hospital for treatment.

South of the border two people died in road crashes when weather warnings were in place, but gardai have not said whether the storm conditions were the main contributory factor in those crashes.

A man in his 40s died in a single-vehicle crash in Claremorris, Co Mayo at about 6.15pm on Sunday when a status red alert was in place, and while a woman in her 20s, who was a passenger in a van, died after it hit a tree in Carnalogue, Co Louth at 1.50am on Monday.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough councillor Ashleen Schenning said the community was in shock after the crash in Limavady.

This has devastated the town, said the SDLP representative. To wake up to this news this morning  it has just left the town in shock and devastation.

Storm Isha caused significant travel disruption and left tens of thousands of homes without power.

As the clean-up began on Monday and repairs were made to power lines, further weather alerts were issued ahead of Storm Jocelyns arrival on Tuesday, which forecasters warned could cause further damage to already weakened structures.

The ESB in Ireland said 68,000 homes and businesses remained without power by 8.45pm on Monday, down from 230,000 at its peak, with the worst-hit areas in the north west.

It said crews would work into the night to restore power for remaining customers.

The electricity supply company also said it would use helicopters to assess the damage to the network.

Northern Ireland Electricity Networks said the impact was severe and widespread.

On Monday afternoon 17,000 customers were still without power, with 53,000 hit by outages at the height of the storm.

Authorities across the island reported fallen trees on roads and urged people not to try to move them as there may be electricity lines tangled within.

A number of trees made famous by the TV series Game Of Thrones were damaged and felled by the storm in Co Antrim.

Work was carried out on Monday to clear up at the Dark Hedges site.

The tunnel of trees became famous when it was featured in the HBO fantasy series and now attracts significant numbers of tourists from around the world.

Dublin Airport said winds had eased and flights on Monday continued without restrictions, but because of delays caused by Storm Isha, 29 flights in and out of Dublin had been cancelled on Monday.

There was disruption for hundreds of passengers due to land at airports on the island on Sunday, with several flights that were unable to touch down being rerouted to Great Britain and even continental Europe.

The Road Safety Authority of Ireland advised all road users to be aware of the dangers after the storm passed as there may be hazardous conditions such as flooded roads and downed pylons, lines, trees and other debris on roads.

A status yellow wind warning is in place for counties Donegal, Galway, Mayo, Clare, Leitrim and Sligo until 7pm, and further status yellow wind warnings are in place for the entire island on Tuesday and into Wednesday.

Very strong winds are expected in these areas, which can lead to large coastal waves, difficult travelling conditions and objects becoming loose and displaced.

In Northern Ireland, a yellow wind warning remained in place for all counties until noon on Monday.

A woman from Co Down said the storm had brought the worst damage weve seen in this area after a row of five trees were felled in front of her house.

Lisa Wilton, 47, posted a video of the fallen trees on X, formerly Twitter, showing the large trunks spanning the width of her driveway where they had uprooted and toppled over.

Ms Wilton, a user researcher in software design, told the PA news agency: Its the worst damage weve seen in this area. Were just glad nobody was hurt and the house and car are OK.

We cant get the car out at all so well be unable to go anywhere. Luckily I work from home but well definitely need quite a lot of chainsaw work out there.

She added: We looked outside last night and spotted a gap in the tree line. I went with the torch to see if we had lost a tree but couldnt believe the whole row of five trees had gone.

On Tuesday, Storm Jocelyn will bring further risk of large waves along coastal areas, difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees, damage to power lines, and possible damage to already weakened structures.

Met Eireann status orange warnings will be in place on Tuesday from 6pm until midnight for Galway and Mayo, and from 6pm on Tuesday until 2am on Wednesday for Donegal.

Status yellow warnings are in place for all other counties in Ireland from Tuesday afternoon until the early hours of Wednesday.

In Northern Ireland, yellow wind warnings will be in place for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Derry, with strong winds expected from 4pm on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday.
Neven Maguire is back with a new seven-part series of his popular Food Trails programmes, returning to Portugal following his highly enjoyable visit in 2022. This year, his travels take him from Porto in the North of Portugal to the Atlantic island of Madeira.

Locations that Neven visits include Porto, Coimbra, Obidos, Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais and Madeira. Throughout the series, Neven meets some of Portugal's most renowned chefs and unique artisan food and drink producers.

His visits include a trip to a tropical fruit farm accessed by cable car, cooking with a chef who uses 25 year-old oysters, a tasting at a steam powered rum distillery, and exploring a banana plantation with its own banana museum.

Neven also heads to Quinta das Lagrimas, the setting for Portugal's own real-life Romeo and Juliet story. He tours Bordallo Pinheiro, perhaps Portugal's most famous decorative ceramics producer discovers the spectacular Palacio Nacional da Pena and enjoys some traditional 'Fado' music.

Each week, Neven shares one of his own recipes, inspired by his Portuguese Food Trails.



Pictured: Neven with Carlos Silva at Casal De Santa Maria.

"I was delighted to return to Portugal, an extraordinary country to explore as a chef and tourist. From Porto to Coimbra, Sintra, Lisbon and Madeira, I discovered the distinct artisan food and drink of each region and learned recipes from some of the country's most talented chefs," Neven said.

"Not only did we discover even more uniquely Portuguese produce, we met some incredible people who were exceptionally kind and welcoming wherever we travelled.

"In this new series we also ventured from mainland Portugal to the island of Madeira, a totally new experience for me, with a subtropical climate and cuisine.

"Throughout the series, I've tasted delicious food and drink, learned new cooking techniques and tips, and visited spectacular tourist attractions. Travelling through Portugal has been an enriching experience, and I'm looking forward to sharing it," he added.

Episode three was aired last week and featured Sintra and Cascais. He explores the town of Sintra and the surrounding area northwest of Lisbon and also heads south to the coastal town of Cascais.



Pictured: Neven Maguire at Palacio Nacional da Pena in programme three of his new series of Neven's Portuguese Food Trails

Neven's first stop is the Palacio Nacional da Pena, a 19th-century palace famous for its brightly coloured and extravagant architecture. The palace was built as a summer home by a nobleman who married the Queen of Portugal in 1836. Today, the palace is used by the President of Portugal for state occasions.

Cascais is a coastal town just outside Lisbon on what is known as 'The Portuguese Riviera'. Neven visits The Farol Hotel, where the chef shares three recipes that use typical Portuguese ingredients in innovative ways. Firstly, an enormous 25-year-old Oyster with Japanese Dashi seasoning and Caviar. This is followed by Smoked Eel with Strawberries and Tomatoes, Strawberry and Vanilla Vinaigrette and Lemon Ice Cream.

All of Neven's recipes in this new series were filmed on the spectacular island of Madeira at the Quinta Das Vinhas estate and vineyard, which has been owned by the same family since 1685.

Neven's Portuguese Food Trails is produced and directed by David Hare for InproductionTV and is sponsored by FLOGAS.
Captura raises US$21.5M, with investments from Maersk Growth, Eni Next and EDP





The raise is an expansion of Captura's Series A funding and reflects the company's growing momentum towards commercialization of its climate solution

Captura's Direct Ocean Capture technology captures CO 2 from the ocean, creating capacity for the ocean to draw down additional CO 2 from the atmosphere

from the ocean, creating capacity for the ocean to draw down additional CO from the atmosphere The captured CO 2 can be permanently stored or turned into lower GHG emission fuel, providing a flexible and powerful tool to help hard-to-decarbonize sectors reach net zero



LOS ANGELES, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Captura announced it expanded its Series A funding round to raise an additional US$21.5 million to commercialize its Direct Ocean Capture (DOC) technology that harnesses the power of the ocean to absorb carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from the atmosphere.

Maersk Growth, Eni Next, and EDP Ventures came aboard as new investors in the round, bringing expertise across shipping and logistics, energy, and utilities to Captura's team. Many of Captura's existing backers also re-invested, including Future Planet Capital who led the expanded round, Equinor Ventures, Freeflow Ventures, Hitachi Ventures, Aramco Ventures, mTerra Ventures, and EIC Rose Rock Venture Fund.

Captura raised an initial US$12M in January 2023 and increased its Series A financing to reflect growing momentum as the company progresses its technology pilot program and begins design work for commercial plants. Captura has two operational pilot plants in California and is developing its third in partnership with Equinor. This plant has a capture capacity of 1000 tons of CO 2 annually and is planned to be installed in Norway in Fall, 2024. Following this pilot, Captura plans to move into large-scale commercial deployments with early plants capturing tens of thousands of tons of CO 2 or more annually.

These plants will use Captura's unique DOC technology that captures CO 2 from the ocean so it can be permanently stored or turned into lower GHG emission fuel or other products. Removing CO 2 from the ocean using DOC amplifies the ocean's natural capability as a carbon sink, creating capacity for an additional drawdown of CO 2 from the atmosphere.

The result of the process is removal of atmospheric CO 2 via the ocean, without adding anything to the ocean. With CO 2 roughly 150 times more concentrated volumetrically in the ocean compared to air, this provides an inherently scalable and efficient way to remove excess atmospheric CO 2 .

Maersk has a 2040 target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions and aims to transport a minimum of 25% of ocean cargo using green fuels by 2030. As part of these ambitious targets, Maersk Growth has committed to invest in and partner with a variety of green fuel and greenhouse gas reduction solutions.

"Maersk Growth is actively looking for promising startups in the Energy Transition space who can enable and accelerate the journey towards net-zero shipping and logistics," says Ida Christine Brun, Head of External Innovation and Ecosystem Engagement at Maersk Growth. "Captura has developed a promising technology, and we are looking forward to joining forces with them."

Eni Next, the corporate venture capital arm of Eni, invests in high-growth start-ups with the most innovative, disruptive and scalable technologies to accelerate the energy transition toward a zero-carbon future.

"Eni Next is looking for new technological solutions leading towards energy transition and Captura represents an example of an innovative company we aim to support. We believe that the Direct Ocean Capture (DOC) technology has the potential to provide a meaningful contribution to reach net zero," said Clara Andreoletti, President and CEO of Eni Next.

EDP have stated a commitment to have 100% renewables generation by 2030 and Net Zero emissions by 2040. With a goal to support and stimulate the open innovation process in the energy sector, EDP Ventures ? as the strategic venture arm of EDP Group ? invests in early-stage tech startups with the potential to impact the lives of millions of people.

"A greener, safer, and more sustainable world begins with unwavering commitments from those dedicated to leading the energy transition. EDP has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 and we are thrilled to collaborate with Captura in their mission to scale carbon removal. It's becoming increasingly important to include carbon removal technologies as a part of a net-zero strategy, and Captura stands out as the leading player in this promising field. At EDP Ventures, we are delighted to contribute to this transformative journey," said Luis Manuel, Executive Board Member of EDP Innovation and Managing Partner at EDP Ventures.

"This past year, Captura has made remarkable strides on our path to commercialization," said Steve Oldham, CEO of Captura. "As we work to advance both our technology and business, we're thrilled to welcome investment from industry-leading companies like Maersk, Eni Next, and EDP, and to have the continued support of our existing investors. With our growing network of deployment partners and investors, and the success of our technology pilot program, Captura is now well-positioned to bring our technology to market and deliver climate solutions at meaningful scale."

About Maersk Growth:

Maersk Growth is the global partner for external innovation at A.P. Moller - Maersk on a mission to digitise, democratise, and decarbonise supply chains, investing in and partnering with promising startups to support new business models and technologies.

About Eni Next:

Eni Next is Eni's Corporate Venture Capital company, created to integrate corporate research, carried out by internal and external researchers and in joint projects with other partners, with open innovation, enhancing the value of dynamic and innovative start-ups through early-stage financing and successive capital increases.

In particular, Eni Next evaluates and invests in companies developing technologies with a lower carbon footprint for energy production, improved efficiency for industrial operations and digital solutions.

About EDP:

EDP is one of the largest renewable energy producers in the world, with a global and distinctive portfolio of assets across hydro, onshore wind and solar, as well as offshore wind. It started this journey 3 decades ago in Europe and has since then scaled up across 30 countries in North America, South America and APAC. The company is reimagining the energy sector and driving a massive acceleration to meet the urgent need for cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy for all, leaving no one behind. That is why EDP has the ambitious commitment of investing more than ?25 billion in the energy transition by 2026, as well as deploying 4.5GW/year of renewables between 2023-2026 and doubling its wind and solar installed capacity by 2026. Being the strategic venture capital arm of the group, EDP Ventures actively supports this green energy revolution.

About Captura:

Captura is a Direct Ocean Capture company headquartered in Pasadena, California. Captura combines innovative technology with the natural carbon removal powers of the ocean to remove CO 2 from the atmosphere at large scale and low-cost, providing a critical capability in the fight against climate change. Captura was founded at Caltech and its solution has been validated and supported by the Musk Foundation's Carbon Removal XPRIZE, the Department of Energy's ARPA-E, and Frontier Climate. For more information, visit www.capturacorp.com .

22 january 2024 at 03:05

News published onand distributed by:
AECOM joint venture to support delivery of the Kensico ? Eastview Connection project





AECOM (NYSE: ACM), the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, today announced that the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) has selected an AECOM joint venture to provide inspection services for the Kensico ? Eastview Connection project. In this role, the joint venture will oversee the delivery of the Kensico Third Conveyance Tunnel, which will supply water from the Kensico Reservoir to the Catskill-Delaware Ultra Violet (CDUV) Disinfection Facility in Eastview, New York.

Designed to carry 2.6 billion gallons of water per day, this new, third conveyance tunnel will provide an increased water flow into the CDUV before it is delivered to New York City residents. Once completed, the tunnel will provide redundancy and flexibility to the city's water supply system, allowing for more efficient movement of water and ensuring that the city has a reliable backup in the event of a disruption to its existing supply routes.

"We're proud to extend our decades-long relationship with New York City, serving as a trusted partner as the city plans increasingly ambitious critical infrastructure projects," said Beverley Stinson, chief executive of AECOM's global Water business. "Our leading expertise in the water sector, bolstered by our local success and global capabilities, positions us to help ensure this major urban water system ? one of the world's largest ? continues to deliver clean, safe, and reliable drinking water for all New Yorkers."

The joint venture will supervise three concurrent teams to complete the project. The first team will oversee the delivery of the 2-mile-deep tunnel. The second team will focus on the build out of new facilities and connection to the tunnels from new and the existing CDUV facility in Eastview. The third team will stabilize the shoreline during delivery and provide wetlands mitigation adjacent to the Kensico Reservoir. When completed, this third conveyance tunnel will allow the capacity of the Kensico Reservoir to grow and maintain levels as work is underway on a separate reservoir in Hillview.

"This large, multifaceted project will not only revitalize key infrastructure, but will also bring important environmental benefits to one of New York City's largest water sources and its surroundings," said Bane Gaiser, chief executive of AECOM's U.S. East and Latin America region. "Our history of similar successful water projects of this scale in New York coupled with the industry-leading experts of this joint venture team will benefit the NYCDEP, the state of New York, and the communities within New York City."

The project is part of a larger effort by the NYCDEP to upgrade and modernize the city's aging water supply infrastructure. With the connection to the Eastview UV Facility through an additional hydraulic link, the New York City water supply system will be better protected should the Delaware Aqueduct become unavailable.

About AECOM

AECOM (NYSE: ACM) is the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle ? from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of $14.4 billion in fiscal year 2023. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come at aecom.com and @AECOM.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this communication other than statements of historical fact are "forward-looking statements" for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives for future operations, profitability, strategic value creation, risk profile and investment strategies, and any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance, and the expected financial and operational results of AECOM. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those projected or assumed in any of our forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results, performance and achievements, or industry results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in our forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following: our business is cyclical and vulnerable to economic downturns and client spending reductions; limited control over operations that run through our joint venture entities; liability for misconduct by our employees or consultants; failure to comply with laws or regulations applicable to our business; maintaining adequate surety and financial capacity; potential high leverage and inability to service our debt and guarantees; ability to continue payment of dividends; exposure to political and economic risks in different countries, including tariffs; currency exchange rate and interest fluctuations; retaining and recruiting key technical and management personnel; legal claims; inadequate insurance coverage; environmental law compliance and adequate nuclear indemnification; unexpected adjustments and cancellations related to our backlog; partners and third parties who may fail to satisfy their legal obligations; AECOM Capital real estate development projects; managing pension cost; cybersecurity issues, IT outages and data privacy; risks associated with the expected benefits and costs of the sale of our Management Services and self-perform at-risk civil infrastructure, power construction and oil and gas construction businesses, including the risk that any contingent purchase price adjustments from those transactions could be unfavorable and result in lower aggregate cash proceeds and any future proceeds owed to us under those transactions could be lower than we expect; as well as other additional risks and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements set forth in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof. We do not intend, and undertake no obligation, to update any forward-looking statement.

22 january 2024 at 07:00

News published onand distributed by:
MASON RESOURCES EMERGES AS STRATEGIC SHAREHOLDER OF NOUVEAU MONDE GRAPHITE THROUGH SALE OF LAC GUERET GRAPHITE PROPERTY





TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Mason Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "Mason") (TSXV: LLG) (OTCQX: MGPHF) is pleased to announce having entered into an asset purchase agreement dated January 21, 2024 (the "APA") with Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc. ("NMG") (NYSE: NMG) (TSXV: NOU) for the sale of the Lac Gueret Property, targeted for the development of the Uatnan Mining Project.

In consideration for the sale of the Lac Gueret Property, Mason will receive 6,208,210 common shares of NMG, representing a 143% premium on the implied market value of the Lac Gueret Property and 9.25% of the pro forma issued and outstanding common shares of NMG, to be issued to Mason upon the closing of the transaction, and an additional payment of $5,000,000 in cash at the start of commercial production of the contemplated Uatnan Mining Project.

Benefits to Mason Shareholders

Provides opportunity to become one of NMG's largest shareholders at an opportune time given the rapid progress of NMG, strategically positioning Mason for future gains;

Provides exposure to NMG's active commercial discussions with tier-1 battery and electric vehicle manufacturers, including Panasonic Energy Co. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Panasonic Holdings Corporation (TYO: 6752), which not only confirm the strong projected demand by battery materials analysts for graphite, but are likely to support the establishment of a globally relevant graphite industry in the Province of Quebec;

Provides diversification and mitigates long-term development risks associated with the Uatnan Mining Project, while retaining equivalent exposure to the graphite sector;

Unlocks near-term value with attractive premium: 143% 1 premium received in consideration on the implied market value of Lac Gueret Property, based on 10-day volume weighted average price (" VWAP ");

premium received in consideration on the implied market value of Lac Gueret Property, based on 10-day volume weighted average price (" "); Enhances exposure to the anticipated near-term increase in graphite prices, especially in light of recent Chinese restrictions announced on graphite material exports, with equity ownership of a near-term producer;

Eliminates future financing requirements related to the Uatnan Mining Project, avoiding eventual equity dilution;

Eliminates care and maintenance costs related to the Lac Gueret Property, resulting in further direct and short-term financial benefits; and

Reinforces NMG's fully vertically integrated production model in North America , further strengthening Mason's strategic positioning.

____________________________

1 Calculated as follow (all share figures based on a 10-day VWAP as of January 19, 2024): Mason market capitalization ($29.7M), less cash on hand as of September 30, 2023 ($7.3M) and value of equity investment in Black Swan Graphene Inc. ($14.1M) = $8.2M; consideration received valued at $20.1M, for a premium of 143%.

Fahad Al-Tamimi, Chairman of Mason, commented: "In forging this new strategic partnership with Nouveau Monde Graphite through this innovative structure, we pave the way for a thriving Quebec graphite industry, a venture poised to yield substantial benefits for both Mason and Nouveau Monde shareholders. From the outset, my unwavering belief in Quebec's potential for the graphite sector and the vision of becoming a global leader in clean energy, reducing CO2 emissions, and electrify its transportation, buildings and businesses has been resolute. This marks a pivotal advancement toward its exciting and promising development which will benefit the economy and the people of Quebec."

Arne H Frandsen, Chair of NMG, declared: "With its very large, high-quality natural graphite deposit, the acquisition of the Lac Gueret deposit represents a strategically important move by NMG. This addition of a world-class asset to NMG's portfolio of resources, underpins the Company's growth prospects and commercial attractiveness. It also puts us in a unique position in the global battery materials space. Our leadership and strong technical teams are looking forward to the smart further development of the Lac Gueret asset, fully synchronized with NMG's current execution plans. We also warmly welcome Mason as a shareholder of NMG as we build a pioneering ? and possibly the largest! ? integrated natural graphite production in the Western World."

Eric Desaulniers, Founder, President and CEO of NMG, said: "In light of commercial discussions for our Phase-2 production out of the Matawinie Mine and Becancour Battery Material Plant, we are confident in the current and future demand for ethically sourced and environmentally produced graphite-based anode material. NMG is set to match the sustained market growth with a robust expansion plan now secured in the Uatnan Mining Project. Uitshi-atussemitutau ? together with the Innu First Nation of Pessamit ? is our vision for the development of this project. We are committed to a strong involvement of the First Nation and active engagement with the region's community and stakeholders to ensure a responsible and sustainable development."

Asset Purchase Agreement

Under the terms of the APA, NMG has agreed to acquire 100% of Mason's Lac Gueret Property, which consists among other things of 74 map-designated claims totalling 3,999.52 hectares. The consideration for the acquisition of the Lac Gueret Property is payable in 6,208,210 common shares of NMG, representing 9.25% of the pro forma issued and outstanding shares of NMG, to be issued to Mason upon the closing of the transaction and a subsequent payment of $5,000,000 to Mason at the start of commercial production of the contemplated Uatnan Mining Project. 3,104,105 of the common shares of NMG to be issued in connection with the transaction will be subject to a lock-up for a period of 12 months and the remaining 3,104,105 common shares of NMG will be subject to a lock-up for an additional 6 months.

Closing of the transaction is subject to standard closing conditions and is expected to occur on or before January 31, 2024. The closing of the transaction will supersede and terminate the previously announced investment agreement, and option and joint venture agreement between Mason and NMG. See the Company's press releases dated May 16, June 23, July 5, and July 20, 2022.

Financial and Legal Advisors

Paradigm Capital Inc. is acting as financial advisor and Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP is acting as legal advisor to the Company in connection with the transaction.

About Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc.

Nouveau Monde Graphite is striving to become a key contributor to the sustainable energy revolution. The Company is working towards developing a fully integrated source of carbon-neutral battery anode material in Quebec, Canada, for the growing lithium-ion and fuel cell markets. With enviable ESG standards, NMG aspires to become a strategic supplier to the world's leading battery and automobile manufacturers, providing high-performing and reliable advanced materials while promoting sustainability and supply chain traceability.

For more information: www.NMG.com.

About Mason Resources Inc.

Mason Resources Inc. is a Canadian corporation focused on seeking investment opportunities. Mason is the largest shareholder of Black Swan Graphene Inc. ("Black Swan") (TSX.V: SWAN) (OTCQB: BSWGF) (Frankfurt: R96) focusing on the large-scale production of patented high-performance and low-cost graphene products aimed at several industrial sectors, including concrete and polymers, which are expected to require large volumes of graphene and, in turn, large volumes of graphite. Black Swan aims at leveraging Quebec's emerging graphite industry to establish an integrated supply chain. In 2023, Black Swan, Nationwide Engineering Research & Development Ltd., and Arup Group Ltd. announced strategic partnerships and, in 2024, Black Swan announced a commercial agreement with Hubron International Ltd. Black Swan's graphene processing technology was developed over the span of a decade by Thomas Swan & Co. Ltd., a United Kingdom-based global chemicals manufacturer, with a century-long track record.

For more information: www.masonresourcesinc.com and www.blackswangraphene.com.

Mason Resources Inc. on behalf of the Board of Directors

Peter Damouni, President & Chief Executive Officer

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information". Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to the completion of the transaction with NMG, risks related to Mason's holding of the NMG shares, risks related to the development of NMG's projects, risks related to Black Swan's business, risk related to the failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with the industry; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of feasibility studies, and the possibility that future results will not be consistent with Mason's expectations; risks related to commodity prices fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to Mason's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in Mason's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Mason does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from Mason's expectations or projections.

SOURCE Mason Resources Inc.

22 january 2024 at 07:00

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Strand Therapeutics Receives IND Clearance for Programmable mRNA Therapy STX-001 to Treat Solid Tumors





Strand Therapeutics, the programmable mRNA company developing breakthrough therapies for cancer and other diseases, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared its Investigational New Drug (IND) application to initiate a Phase 1, first-in-human trial of STX-001, a multi-mechanistic synthetic self-replicating mRNA technology that expresses an IL-12 cytokine for an extended period of time, directly into the tumor microenvironment.

"STX-001 has the potential to become the first programmable mRNA therapy in oncology," said Jake Becraft, Ph.D., CEO & Co-Founder, Strand Therapeutics. "We're thrilled to receive IND clearance to advance our program into patients, which represents an important milestone for our company. STX-001 represents a promising new approach for the treatment of solid tumors. We're excited to continue evaluating our programmable mRNA technology across a number of therapeutic areas."

STX-001 shows promise as a new approach to improve the efficacy of current immunotherapies for solid tumors. STX-001's self-replicating mRNA technology induces immunogenic cancer cell death and promotes recruitment of T cells and NK cells to the tumor microenvironment, as well as their activation.

"Although we have seen significant advances in immunotherapy for the treatment of various solid tumors, the reality is that most patients still eventually develop resistance and their cancer progresses on therapy," said Tasuku Kitada, Ph.D., Co-Founder, President, and Head of R&D, Strand Therapeutics. "Over the past several years, we have pioneered the development of programmable mRNA therapies to provide targeted and precise immune activation to the tumor microenvironment. Our IND clearance for STX-001 marks an important next step for our immuno-oncology program, and we look forward to advancing our first candidate into clinical trials early this year."

Data presented at AACR 2023 reported that STX-001 overcomes the limitations of current immunotherapy, and has the potential to radically improve clinical responses to solid tumors. STX-001 enables the delivery of therapeutic quantities of IL-12 with greater efficacy than conventional mRNA, and also induced durable anti-tumor response and enhanced efficacy when combined with PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors. STX-001 is the first drug from Strand's solid tumor platform, which is capable of expressing any protein therapeutic(s) desired from directly within the tumor cells themselves, creating previous unattainable potential therapeutic indices.

About Strand Therapeutics

Strand Therapeutics is a next-generation biotechnology company committed to transforming the lives of patients by developing first-in-class programmable mRNA therapeutics. Founded by leaders in mRNA-based synthetic biology at MIT, Strand is creating the first platform for programmable, long-acting mRNA therapeutics that are bioengineered to enable precise control of the location, timing, intensity, and duration of therapeutic activity. Strand's mission is to develop improved treatment options for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The company is headquartered in Boston, MA. For more information, visit www.strandtx.com. Follow us @StrandTx.

22 january 2024 at 08:05

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Hitachi Digital Services and OneThird Fight Supermarket Food Waste With First-of-its-Kind Digital Solution





Sustainability-focused digital solution designed to reduce food waste by at least 25% and improve retailer fresh food supply chain management

LONDON and SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hitachi Digital Services, the digital consultancy and technology services subsidiary of Hitachi Ltd. (TSE: 6501), is supporting food waste prevention specialists OneThird in the development of a breakthrough solution tackling the global food waste crisis. OneThird selected Digital Services from Hitachi Vantara, now a new entity known as Hitachi Digital Services, to combine its Azure cloud and application expertise with their in-depth understanding of sensing and AI technology and together they created a real-time data insights platform to enable a smarter and more flexible food supply chain. The solution enables fresh produce supply chains to prevent significant waste of produce ? 25% at least ? while also saving on the associated cost of those losses.

For more information about Hitachi Digital Services efforts in sustainability, visit:

https://hitachids.com/service/sustainability/

Currently about 1/3 of food production is lost and wasted globally, despite unprecedented levels of human consumption, courtesy of a growing global population that is set to increase by nearly 2 billion people in the next 30 years. The financial costs of food wastage are substantial and amount to about USD 1 trillion each year. It is imperative that solutions are created to ensure there is enough food for everyone, which also includes reducing the current food waste crisis.

OneThird has developed a portable scanner that is able to scan produce on a molecular level ? analyzing their water, sugar, and starch content ? using a non-destructive, near-infrared sensing technology and AI algorithms to predict the shelf-life of fresh produce. Leveraging Hitachi Digital Services' cloud development capabilities, the estimated shelf-life data becomes available in real-time, enabling all parties involved to decide on the final retail destinations of the fresh produce or redirect to alternative purposes like dry freezing or processing into soups and sauces.

Marco Snikkers, CEO and founder of OneThird said, "The astronomical volume of food that goes to waste each year is heartbreaking, particularly since so much is wasted in affluent countries. We've worked closely with Hitachi Vantara to create technology that helps to address this persistent, global challenge which directly impacts food scarcity. We are proud to have built the first cloud-based and connected product that accurately and objectively predicts the shelf life of fresh produce. The interest has been overwhelming, and we aim to accelerate the deployment of our technology globally."

The insights obtained from the scanning data enable retailers to:

Consider the best distribution routes based on produce shelf life and customer specifications;

Repurpose items to food banks or processing instead of having produce rejected by shoppers due to short shelf life;

Provide best before and expiration dates based on actual shelf life rather than default values; and,

Apply discounts in-store if produce shelf life is near expiration and better manage stock by placing items with a longer shelf life towards the back.

To help drive OneThird's digital strategy and journey, Hitachi Vantara's consulting services co-created the data and analytics integration platform and interfaces to interact with different external platforms in real-time.

"Currently able to predict the shelf life of tomatoes, strawberries, blueberries and avocados, the technology will extend to a range of further produce including grapes, bananas, mangoes, and raspberries by 2024. Notably, the solution solves the 'avocado problem,' with shoppers no longer needing to squeeze avocadoes in-store to test for their ripeness, which can damage them," said Roger Lvin, CEO of Hitachi Digital Services. "As the food waste crisis continues, retailers must be equipped with the insights needed to reduce food waste in a truly impactful way. It's exciting that our data-driven solutions are playing a role in helping to achieve this. We're proud to have collaborated with OneThird on this initiative, which not only supports sustainable practices but also has huge growth potential, as new product developments are currently in the works. We are incredibly excited to see what this solution will go on to achieve."

The technology is already available for use by those working across the food supply chain, from growers to distributors. In addition, multiple European retailers are currently in talks to install the technology in-store, while all are already using the scanning devices within their supply chains.

This co-created digital solution is the latest example showcasing Hitachi's expertise in helping customers to drive their sustainability goals, having recently worked with Golden Grove to improve the nursery's irrigation practices by 30% and Blechwarenfabrik Limburg to reduce energy costs by half a million Euros annually.

Additional Resources

Connect With Hitachi Digital Services

About Hitachi Digital Services

Hitachi Digital Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi Ltd., is an edge-to-core digital consultancy and technology services provider helping organizations realize the full potential of AI-driven digital transformation. Through a technology-unified operating model for cloud, data and IoT, Hitachi Digital Services' end-to-end value creation for clients is established through innovation in digital engineering, implementation services, products, and solutions. Built on Hitachi Group's more than 110 years of innovation across industries, Hitachi Digital Services helps to improve people's lives today and build a sustainable society tomorrow. To learn more, visit https://hitachids.com.

About OneThird

OneThird is on a mission to address a $1 trillion annual problem ? reducing the loss of one-third of all food produced worldwide. OneThird's food tech solutions for growers, distributors and grocery retailers allow for high-accuracy shelf life prediction of produce at any stage of the supply chain ? ensuring the right product gets to the right place at the right time. Using passion and creativity, OneThird delivers meaningful solutions to improve sustainability efforts, feed those in need, and save customers money.

Founded in 2019 in a digital incubator for FTSE 100 company Halma plc [LON:HLMA], and based in Enschede, The Netherlands, OneThird is a privately held company backed by impact investors Pymwymic, SHIFT Invest and Oost NL. Follow OneThird on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or learn more at https://onethird.io.

About Hitachi, Ltd.

Hitachi drives Social Innovation Business, creating a sustainable society through the use of data and technology. We solve customers' and society's challenges with Lumada solutions leveraging IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products. Hitachi operates under the business structure of "Digital Systems & Services" - supporting our customers' digital transformation; "Green Energy & Mobility" - contributing to a decarbonized society through energy and railway systems, and "Connective Industries" - connecting products through digital technology to provide solutions in various industries. Driven by Digital, Green, and Innovation, we aim for growth through co-creation with our customers. The company's consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2022 (ended March 31, 2023) totaled 10,881.1 billion yen, with 696 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 320,000 employees worldwide. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's website at https://www.hitachi.com.

HITACHI is a trademark or registered trademark of Hitachi, Ltd. All other trademarks, service marks, and company names are properties of their respective owners.

SOURCE Hitachi Digital Services

22 january 2024 at 09:00

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VITAMIN ANGELS EXPANDED US REACH BY 25% AND PACKAGE OF NUTRITION SOLUTIONS, FURTHERING MISSION TO END MALNUTRITION WORLDWIDE





In its 30th anniversary year, Vitamin Angels advances toward goal of doubling its impact to reach 140 million underserved pregnant women and children annually with essential nutrients by 2033

GOLETA, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As the United States' maternal health crisis continues, Vitamin Angels focused its efforts on expanding its US programs, increasing its reach by 25% over the last five years and providing thousands of underserved pregnant women in the US with the prenatal vitamins and minerals they need to support a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, the organization strengthened healthcare systems globally and expanded its package of nutrition solutions, piloting research and programs focused on breastfeeding and complementary feeding support. By year's end, Vitamin Angels reached over 71 million nutritionally vulnerable pregnant women, infants, and young children with proven nutrition solutions in every state in the US and in about 65 countries around the world.

"We made incredible progress this past year towards our mission to improve maternal and child nutrition worldwide," said Howard Schiffer, Vitamin Angels Founder and President. "By expanding our package of nutrition solutions, working with national governments across the world, and increasing our US reach, we are that much closer to ending malnutrition and ensuring everyone, everywhere has an equal chance at a healthy future."

Currently, there are more than 1 million underserved pregnant women in the US who do not have access to essential healthcare. In an effort to address this need, Vitamin Angels plans to reach 50% of underserved pregnant women in the US with prenatal vitamins and minerals by the end of 2024.

Additionally, the expansion of its package of nutrition solutions to include breastfeeding and complementary feeding allows the organization to offer more comprehensive solutions and further deepen its impact on the women and children it serves.

Other highlights from the year included:

Advanced National MMS Policy in Indonesia - Vitamin Angels worked with partners to provide technical assistance, raise awareness, and build consensus around a national MMS (multiple micronutrient supplementation, also known as prenatal vitamins and minerals) policy for pregnant women. Its efforts supported local partners in Indonesia to improve the quality of pre- and postnatal care, improve gender equity, and increase access to maternal health services.





- Vitamin Angels worked with partners to provide technical assistance, raise awareness, and build consensus around a national MMS (multiple micronutrient supplementation, also known as prenatal vitamins and minerals) policy for pregnant women. Its efforts supported local partners in to improve the quality of pre- and postnatal care, improve gender equity, and increase access to maternal health services. Corporate Partner Impact Achievements - Walgreens and Vitamin Angels celebrated 10 years of partnership and reached over 400 million women and children around the world with essential nutrients. They also expanded their prenatal pilot program to 12 additional markets and over 400 Walgreens stores across the United States . Bayer reached a milestone of impacting over 13 million pregnant women and their babies, worldwide, with prenatal vitamins and minerals and was an educational grant provider for Vitamin Angels' new global education initiative, Nutrition in Pregnancy. Other corporate partners who achieved impressive milestones included The Vitamin Shoppe who reached 68 million underserved women and children and SmartyPants who reached 30 million women and children in need.

Charity Navigator 100% 4-star rating - As a 4-star rated charity for twelve consecutive years by Charity Navigator, Vitamin Angels received its first 100% 4-star rating in 2023, a designation that only 3% of top-rated charities nationwide achieve.

In 2024, Vitamin Angels will continue to pursue its goal of reaching 140 million women and children annually by 2033 by further expanding their programs worldwide and continuing to deepen their delivery and package of evidence-based nutrition solutions.

On March 13th, Vitamin Angels is hosting an exciting event in Anaheim, California to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Admission to the event is free. To register, please visit: www.vitaminangels.org/30-years

ABOUT VITAMIN ANGELS

Founded in 1994, Vitamin Angels is a public health nonprofit working to improve nutrition and health outcomes in low-resource settings worldwide. We strengthen, extend, and amplify the impact of our partner organizations working to reach the most nutritionally vulnerable groups ? pregnant women, infants, and young children ? who are underserved by existing systems. We do this by delivering evidence-based interventions and offering technical assistance, including ongoing monitoring and evaluation, to ensure program quality, scale, and impact. Vitamin Angels works with over 1,200 local organizations, including governments, to reach more than 71 million women and children in about 65 countries annually. Both Charity Navigator and Candid give Vitamin Angels their highest marks for financial transparency. To learn more, visit: www.vitaminangels.org .

Contact:

Claire Murchison

[email protected]

SOURCE Vitamin Angels

22 january 2024 at 12:30

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The Inner Circle Acknowledges, Abdelhai Abdelqader as a Top Pinnacle Professional





SARASOTA, Fla., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Abdelhai Abdelqader is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Gastroenterology.

Dr. Abdelqader pursued higher education at Loyola University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He then attended St. George University where he received a Medical Doctor degree; completed a residency at Medstar Health; and fellowships at West Virginia University and Robert Wook Johnson University Hospital.

Dr. Abdelqader is considered an expert in colorectal and esophageal cancer screening, as well as advanced endoscopy and surgical endoscopy. He notes that he focuses on procedures and interventions related to these areas of specialization. Dr. Abdelhai Abdelqader is a practicing gastroenterologist based in Sarasota, FL. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the digestive system and the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach, liver, and pancreas disorders. He performs procedures such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, cancer ablative procedures, incisionless fundoplication for reflux, incisionless weight loss procedures, endoscopic suturing, and stents in the digestive tract. His expertise lies in esophageal and colorectal cancer screening, as well as advanced endoscopy and surgical endoscopy. He focuses on procedures and interventions related to these areas of specialization.

Dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest innovations in his field, Dr. Abdelqader is an avid consumer of medical journals and his favorite publication is "GIE" (Gastrointestinal Endoscopy), indicating his interest in his field's latest research and developments. A published practitioner, the doctor asserts that his mentors are Dr. Michel Kahaleh; Dr. Avik Sarkar; and Dr. John Nasr. When considering his extraordinary accomplishments, he believes the key to his success is practicing his philosophy to respond to his patients' calling, emphasizing patient-centered care. His future projections include the continuous provision of high-quality care to his patients.

Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys vacations in Spain and Costa Rica with his family, and playing sports. Dr. Abdelqader expresses gratitude to his parents and wife Leena for their love and support.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle

22 january 2024 at 14:15

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Therapeutic Solutions International Files Lawsuit in San Diego Superior Court to Obtain Identities of Certain Individuals or Entities





Therapeutic Solutions International, Inc. (TSOI), announced the filing of a Civil Action in the Superior Court of the State of California for the County of San Diego to disclose the identities of certain individuals or entities that continuously post defamatory and libelous statements on StockTwits.

The lawsuit filed today by our attorneys is seeking the identities of certain posters in their DOE capacities to learn their true identities, enjoin further defamatory interest communications and recover for the significant injuries TSOI has suffered.

Stocktwits.com, InvestorsHub.com Inc., and yahoo.com are websites that provide users the opportunity, through access to their message boards, to communicate with others concerning stock trading, corporate behavior, and other finance-related issues. The websites undoubtedly serve a useful purpose. But the message boards, which allow their users to express themselves anonymously, by using "screen names" and/or "usernames" traceable only through the hosts of the sites or their internet service providers (ISP), are an opportunity for fraud, trade libel, defamation, misinformation, and stock market manipulators.

About Therapeutic Solutions International, Inc.

Therapeutic Solutions International is focused on immune modulation for the treatment of several specific diseases. The Company's corporate website is www.therapeuticsolutionsint.com.

22 january 2024 at 15:00

News published onand distributed by:
Media Statement on the Release of Phase 1 of the BC Government's Critical Minerals Strategy





VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Michael Goehring, President and CEO of the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC), made the following statement on the release today of Phase 1 of the Government of British Columbia's Critical Minerals Strategy:



"While the Mining Association of BC supports the direction of Phase 1 of the BC Government's new Critical Mineral Strategy, our sector is concerned the Strategy is missing a foundational element: competitive fiscal policy.

The strategy recognizes the generational opportunity critical minerals offer to all British Columbians. It contains some important policy initiatives to advance the industry including dedicating staff and resources to prioritize critical minerals projects and expedite permitting. The strategy also emphasizes the need to support First Nations partnerships and economic reconciliation.

To unlock BC's critical minerals potential, the province needs competitive fiscal and regulatory policies to attract and retain investment in our sector. BC's mines and smelters operate in a high-cost environment due to complex resource geology and challenging geography. They are ?price takers' in world markets without the ability to pass increased costs and taxes onto global customers. Changes to BC's tax regime over the past ten years have significantly increased operating costs across the sector.

The mining sector believes the Critical Minerals Strategy lacks the foundation of a competitive fiscal framework, highlighted in the BC government's transition to an Output-Based Carbon Pricing System (BC OBPS). BC's mining and smelting industry supports a carbon price signal, but currently pays the highest carbon tax in Canada and the world, while having the lowest GHG emissions globally?with no opportunity to decarbonize further because zero-emission haul truck technologies are not expected to be commercially available before the end of the decade, at best.

It's imperative existing and prospective critical mineral mines in BC pay a carbon tax that is competitive with Ontario and Quebec. If not, the OBPS will negatively impact investment decisions in BC and undermine the goals of the provincial government's Critical Minerals Strategy."

About the Mining Association of British Columbia

MABC is the voice of British Columbia's steelmaking coal, metal and mineral producers, smelters and advanced development companies. Our industry benefits all British Columbians and supports more than 35,000 jobs and over 3,900 small, medium and indigenous affiliated businesses in every corner of the province through an annual spend of $3.7 billion on goods and services. Our members' products have among the lowest carbon footprints globally and are helping the world transition to a cleaner, low-carbon future; safely and responsibly.

For more information

Jayne Czarnocki

Director, Communications

Mining Association of British Columbia

Cell: 778-957-2597

Email: [email protected]

22 january 2024 at 15:30

News published onand distributed by:
Endo's Paladin Labs Announces Launch of XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) in Canada





MONTREAL, Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ -- Paladin Labs Inc., a subsidiary of Endo International plc (OTC: ENDPQ), announced today that XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) is now available in Canada. XCOPRI is indicated as adjunctive therapy in the management of partial-onset seizures in adults with epilepsy who are not satisfactorily controlled with conventional therapy.

"We are pleased to announce the availability of XCOPRI in Canada," said Livio Di Francesco, Vice President & General Manager of Paladin Labs Inc. "As a company dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs, we are committed to supporting the ongoing innovation in epilepsy management."

XCOPRI received favourable recommendations for public reimbursement from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) and the Institut national d'excellence en sante et en services sociaux (INESSS) in 2023. Paladin Labs continues to work with federal, provincial, and territorial government payers across Canada and their negotiating body, the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance, to help appropriate patients gain access to XCOPRI as soon as possible.

About Epilepsy1-3

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition affecting ~300,000 Canadians. It is characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. While there are many different types of seizures, they can be grouped into two broad categories ? generalized seizures and focal seizures ? based on where in the brain the seizure activity starts. Focal seizures (also called partial-onset seizures) affect ~60% of people with epilepsy. While many people with epilepsy respond to anti-seizure medication, ~30% of patients continue to experience seizures, despite treatment with currently available medication options.

About XCOPRI

XCOPRI (cenobamate tablets) is indicated as adjunctive therapy in the management of partial-onset seizures in adults with epilepsy who are not satisfactorily controlled with conventional therapy. It is taken orally, once daily.4

XCOPRI is an anti-seizure medication (ASM) discovered and developed by SK Biopharmaceuticals and SK Life Science. It is a novel molecule with a dual mechanism of action. In pre-clinical studies, XCOPRI has been demonstrated to reduce repetitive neuronal firing by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium currents. It is also a modulator of the ?-aminobutyric acid (GABA A ) ion channel.4-6 The efficacy and safety of XCOPRI for the treatment of adults with uncontrolled partial-onset seizures (also known as focal-onset seizures) were assessed in two randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trials (C013 and C017).5,6 The long-term safety of cenobamate in this population has been studied in an open-label safety study (C021).7

During Studies C013 and C017, a total of 441 patients were exposed to XCOPRI. In both studies, the primary efficacy endpoint was median percent reduction from baseline in seizure frequency per 28 days. The key secondary endpoint was responder rates, defined as the proportion of patients with 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency. XCOPRI significantly reduced seizure frequency and demonstrated a significantly higher ?50% responder rate compared to placebo.

Consult the Product Monograph for complete efficacy and safety information.

Cenobamate is currently marketed in the U.S. as XCOPRI and in Europe under the trademark ONTOZRY.

About Endo International plc and Paladin Labs

Endo (OTC: ENDPQ) is a specialty pharmaceutical company committed to helping everyone we serve live their best life through the delivery of quality, life-enhancing therapies. Our decades of proven success come from passionate team members around the globe collaborating to bring treatments forward. Together, we boldly transform insights into treatments benefiting those who need them, when they need them. Learn more at www.endo.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Paladin Labs Inc., headquartered in Montreal, Canada, is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on acquiring or in-licensing innovative pharmaceutical products for the Canadian market. Paladin has a focused marketing, medical, and sales organization that has helped it evolve into one of Canada's leading specialty pharmaceutical companies. Paladin is an operating company of Endo International plc. For more information visit www.paladin-labs.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and any applicable Canadian securities legislation including, but not limited to, the statements by Mr. Di Francesco, any statements relating to product efficacy, regulatory approvals, expected launch dates, potential treatments or indications, therapeutic outcomes or treatment responses, and any statements that refer to expected, estimated or anticipated future results or that do not relate solely to historical facts. Statements including words or phrases such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "plan," "will," "may," "look forward," "intend," "guidance," "future," "potential" or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this communication reflect the Company's current views as of the date of this communication about its plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects, which are based on the information currently available to it and on assumptions it has made. Actual results may differ materially and adversely from current expectations based on a number of factors, including, among other things, the outcome of the Company's contingency planning and restructuring activities; the timing, impact or results of any pending or future litigation, investigations, proceedings or claims, including opioid, tax and antitrust related matters; any actual or contingent liabilities; settlement discussions or negotiations; the Company's liquidity, financial performance, cash position and operations; the risks and uncertainties associated with chapter 11 proceedings; the time, terms and ability to confirm a sale of the Company's businesses under Section 363 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code; the risk that the Company's chapter 11 cases may be converted to cases under chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code; the adequacy of the capital resources of the Company's businesses and the difficulty in forecasting the liquidity requirements of the operations of the Company's businesses; the unpredictability of the Company's financial results; the Company's ability to discharge claims in chapter 11 proceedings; negotiations with the holders of the Company's indebtedness and its trade creditors and other significant creditors; the risks and uncertainties with performing under the terms of the restructuring support agreement and any other arrangement with lenders or creditors while in chapter 11 proceedings; the performance, including the approval, introduction, and consumer and physician acceptance of new products and the continuing acceptance of currently marketed products; and the Company's ability to obtain and successfully manufacture, maintain and distribute a sufficient supply of products to meet market demand in a timely manner. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required to do so by law.

Additional information concerning risk factors, including those referenced above, can be found in press releases issued by the Company, as well as the Company's public periodic filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and with securities regulators in Canada, including the discussion under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

References:

Canadian Epilepsy Alliance. https://www.canadianepilepsyalliance.org/about-epilepsy/. Accessed November 27, 2023 . Public Health Agency of Canada . Epilepsy in Canada . 2021. https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/documents/services/publications/diseases-conditions/64-03-17-2021-Epilepsy-in-Canada-EN-FINAL.pdf. Accessed November 27, 2023 . Epilepsy Canada. https://www.epilepsy.ca/what-is-epilepsy. Accessed November 27, 2023 . XCOPRI Product Monograph. Paladin Labs Inc. June 12 , 2023. Chung SS, et al. Neurology. 2020;94:e2311-e2322. Krauss GL, et al. Lancet Neurol. 2020;19:38-48. Sperling MR, et al. Epilepsia. 2020;61(6):1099-1108.

SOURCE Endo International plc

22 january 2024 at 16:30

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Police keep watch over arrested men who attempted to take over a hospital in Guayas, Ecuador, on January 21, 2023. STRINGER / AFP

Police in violence-plagued Ecuador arrested 68 people on Sunday, January 21, who had attempted to take over a hospital in the country's southwest in the midst of a conflict between drug gangs and the security forces.

"We neutralized alleged terrorists who were trying to take over the facilities of a hospital in Yaguachi, Guayas," police announced on social media.

Those detained were believed to be trying to rescue a colleague who was admitted to the hospital with injuries hours earlier, it added. Firearms and drugs were seized.

Police said they also raided a "rehabilitation center" that housed a gang command center and brothel, and where several alleged gang members were hiding.

Ecuadoran authorities have recently closed hundreds of such centers, essentially gang-run clandestine hospitals that officials say do not have proper facilities for patient care.

Once considered a bastion of peace in Latin America, Ecuador has been plunged into crisis after years of expansion by transnational cartels that use its ports to ship drugs to the United States and Europe.

Read more Why Ecuador is facing a deadly security crisis

After a recent spate of violence sparked by the prison escape of Adolfo Macias, a drug kingpin known as "Fito," President Daniel Noboa imposed a state of emergency and declared the country in a "war" against gangs.

Read more Subscribers only Ecuador President Daniel Noboa declares war on gangs

Drug cartels reacted swiftly, threatening to execute civilians and security forces and taking hostage dozens of police and prison officials since released.

There are some 20 criminal groups in the country of 17 million people, with membership thought to exceed 20,000.

New security network launched

The violence prompted ministers of Andean countries to create a new "Andean security network" against organized crime, according to a signed official declaration at an emergency meeting in Lima on Sunday.

The network will guarantee "a 24/7 service to provide and receive information, and/or request information from other countries... on the activity of criminal groups that have, or may have, transnational operations," said the declaration from the Andean Community, comprised of members Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Bolivia.

Ecuadoran Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld hailed the agreement as a "new chapter." "Fear paralyzes countries," she stressed. "We have seen that fear has paralyzed Ecuador, paralyzed investment, increased unemployment and migration."

Peru and Colombia had already tightened border controls, fearing an influx of criminals fleeing the crackdown in Ecuador.

The United States also announced Sunday that a delegation would visit Ecuador to "consider options to accelerate bilateral security cooperation and discuss collaborative approaches to confront the threats posed by transnational criminal organizations."

Highlighting the extent of the drug trade in the region, authorities in both Colombia and Ecuador announced over the weekend that they had intercepted two semi-submersible vessels loaded with tons of drugs in their respective Pacific waters. Three people on each vessel were arrested.
A SMALL community in County Limerick has launched a campaign to raise funds for a young homeless man found "on the verge of death" in a popular woodland.

People in Kilbehenny and the surrounding areas have come together to launch a Go Fund Me to help 30-year-old Cian find a forever home.

The fundraiser, which was launched last week, has raised more than 20,000 of the 200,000 target.

According to the Go Fund Me page, Cian - who was the subject of a 2023 Virgin Media documentary on people with full-time jobs experiencing homelessness - grew up in State care and has slept on the streets of Ireland for many years.

Despite being in numerous dangerous circumstances - including having his ribs broken and teeth knocked out - Cian still managed to find occasional employment, mostly in construction.

However, he could never raise enough money to put a roof over his head and, with this goal becoming more and more difficult to achieve, Cian gave up all hope and went to die alone in a secluded area of Galtee Woods.

Fortunately, local walkers found him.

However, he was in "a severely malnourished state and on the verge of death" and is now recovering in hospital.

The Virgin Media documentary can be viewed below:

A spokesperson on the GoFundMe page stated: "We have been very touched by Cian's story and want to help Cian as much as we can. We want Cian to finally have the home he deserves.

"We are raising these funds to make his dream of a home come true and in his own words 'to live a simple life'.

"Your kind donations are greatly appreciated. Thank you so very much."
It has been widely reported in the Indian press that Tata Communications Transformation Services (TCTS), a subsidiary of Indian digital ecosystem enabler Tata Communications, has issued a service contract termination notice to operator Vodafone Idea (aka Vi) after the company did not pay TCTS on time.

Tata Communications is apparently in discussion about a disengagement transition plan with Vodafone Idea, though it has not named the operator specifically.

A notice to the stock exchange suggested that the carrying amount of trade receivables from the operator may have been Rs 221.19 crores (about US$26.6 million) in December 2023.

As news reports point out, TCTS handles maintenance work for Vodafone Idea's fibre assets. However, Vodafone Idea has apparently offered an assurance that customer services will remain unaffected despite the termination of the service contract by TCTS. The work will now be brought in-house.

What may be more significant in this case is that this is a big vendor withdrawing its services to Vodafone Idea over non-payment, which does not seem to have happened to the operator before.

What this says about Vodafone Ideas financial situation is unclear. News reports suggest that the operator is clearing its debt obligations to lenders and banks. However, some payments owed to vendors are apparently being delayed.

We have already mentioned Vodafone Ideas issues with Indus Towers (which led to threats to restrict service, though not their outright withdrawal). The operator also needs to pay other vendors such as American Tower Corp (ATC), Nokia and Ericsson. And, of course, it needs to find money for 5G rollout given the ground it has lost to competitors Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio.
UL HOSPITALS Group have apologised to every one of our patients following a record-breaking number of patients waiting on a trolley at the UHL.

The apology comes as 132 patients were reported waiting for a bed in the hospitals emergency department and wards this Monday morning. It broke the previous record of 130 set in October 2023.

University Hospital Limerick remains extremely busy this Monday, with attendances above average over the weekend and a high number of inpatients associated with the recent surge in winter respiratory illnesses, a spokesperson for UL Hospitals Group said.

Demand for inpatient beds is exceptionally high and includes patients waiting in our emergency department, in designated bed spaces in our assessment units and surge areas, as well as patients on trolleys on our inpatient wards.

The level of overcrowding is far in excess of where we want to be, and we apologise to every one of our patients who faces a long wait time for an inpatient bed, the spokesperson added.

According to the spokesperson UHL are following an escalation framework to maximise patient flow and create additional capacity to manage the consistently high levels of activity in the hospital.

Staff are focused on ensuring that emergency care is first received by the sickest patients, the spokesperson said.

Ongoing measures include opening surge capacity across all sites; transferring patients on trolleys to our inpatient wards; additional ward rounds by medical teams to expedite discharges or identify patients suitable for transfer to Ennis, Nenagh and St Johns Hospitals; and working closely with our colleagues in HSE Mid-West Community Healthcare in order to expedite discharges.

Elective activity is also being reviewed on a daily basis in UHL and across our sites, as our teams work to maximise surge capacity while ensuring that the most urgent and time-critical cases can be accommodated as scheduled, the spokesperson added.



The spokesperson continued: The emergency department (ED) remains open 24/7 and urgent care is being delivered to those who need it most. However, the public should please be aware that anyone attending ED who doesnt have a life-threatening or severe illness or injury will face a significant wait.
A MAN with Limerick connections is nearing a deal with the government for the sale of the iconic Conor Pass in County Kerry.

Many have been speculating online that if the State is to buy the Conor Pass it would make another picturesque national park.

The Conor Pass initially had a price tag of 10m for approximately 1,400 acres of what is considered to feature some of Irelands most breathtaking landscapes.

American Mike Noonan, whose family are originally from Galbally, owns the land.

Speaking last year on RTEs Liveline, Mr Noonan told Kate Hannon that sometimes when you get older you have to see what you can and cant do and its time for me to move on.

The landowner said he decided to sell the land as he wanted to spend more time with his grandchildren and family.

Mr Noonan began buying the land of Conor Pass a little over 25 years ago. He started by buying six farms.

The Conor Pass is a unique landscape in west Kerry that is all too familiar to many in Limerick who are fond of visiting or holidaying in west Kerry.

When Mr Noonan announced that he was selling the Conor Pass, many locals were concerned about what that would mean for west Kerry.

Michael O'Dowd, owner of OConnors Bar and Guesthouse near the pass, called it a perfect place for the government to create a greenway. If we look up and down the country where the government is trying to put in greenways, they have difficulties with farmers. They could put a greenway in here no bother, Mr ODowd said.

Were going to put fierce pressure on the government to help us because were a community that is dying here. I mean it.

When Mr ODowd was growing up in Cloghane, where his business is based, there were nine pubs in the area and now there are currently three.

If it became a national park, it would be a huge, huge boost to our local economy. Not alone to our own local economy but the population of the county really. People would like to go see wild parks and recreational areas like what we have here, he added.

One of the more prominent features of the Conor Pass are the hundreds of sheep that graze on the land. All the sheep on the Conor Pass land belong to Mr Noonan.

What happens to the sheep will depend on the sale.

Right now we are looking at opportunities. Well sell them off if the person who buys it wants to manage their own sheep on the property, Mr Noonan told Liveline.
HUNDREDS of people have protested at the ongoing overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick (UHL).

Almost 400 people braved wind and heavy rain to come out on Sunday to march from the car park at Crescent Shopping Centre to the hospital in Dooradoyle.

The demonstration came 12 months to the day 11,000 people marched through the city to express anger at conditions of the hospital.

And it was against the backdrop of another record breaking day in terms of numbers of people on trolleys.

The demonstration was organised by Garryowen man Mike Daly, whose father died in 2011, and whose care at UHL was the subject of two inquests.

One of the participants in the march was Siobhan MacGowan, sister of the late Shane MacGowan who died last November.

The demands of the protesters remain the same - the re-opening of the emergency departments in Ennis, Nenagh and at St Johns Hospital as a means of relieving the pressure at the acute hospital.

The only TD from the region to attend the demonstration was Sinn Fein's Maurice Quinlivan.

He said: "People in UHL are being badly let down by the governments mismanagement of health. Patients and staff in Limerick know all too well the severe pressures our health service is under locally. People are waiting far too long for crucial healthcare. This government lacks the ambition and the pace of delivery that are needed to fix the health service."

"The glacial approach to addressing the huge numbers waiting at UHL clearly demonstrates that they have effectively conceded defeat in this issue for years to come," he added, "A Sinn Fein government would fund the health service properly to ensure patients in Limerick get the high-quality, timely health care they need when they need it."
The first-ever Irish language to debut at Sundance Film Festival has been picked up for global distribution by Sony Pictures Classics.

Kneecap, a semi-autobiographical biopic of the West Belfast group, will be released in cinemas across North America and the world following the deal.

Starring Kneecap members Moglai Bap, Mo Chara and DJ Provai as themselves, alongside Hollywood heavy-weight Michael Fassbender, the film is set in West Belfast in 2019 and tells "the origin story of the riotous and ground-breaking" trio.

After its premiere at Sundance in Utah the film scored a 100% Rotten Tomatoes rating from critics along with rave reviews.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KNEECAP (@kneecap32)

The Hollywood Reporter have called it "gleefully irreverent", while Screen Daily describe the film as "destined for cult status, and just as ramshackle as any Blues Brothers or Spinal Tap was in its day."

Speaking to RTE, Kneecap producer Trevor Birney said: "That is just phenomenal, not only for Kneecap, which I am so happy for, but for Irish film and for the little community of producers in Belfast.

"We have had huge success with Game of Thrones and Derry Girls, but this is about indigenous film production, indigenous producers, indigenous crews, making independent film.

"I think this is a really break-out moment for Belfast, for the film community and I just want to pay tribute to them all and say our success is their success and I am delighted for everyone at home in Belfast.

"These guys are behind the films you have known and loved over the last 20 years. And that means that Kneecap the film is going to be seen in 200 cinemas in America this summer. They are going to roll Kneecap out across the world."

No release date has been announced as of yet by Sony Pictures Classic.

Kneecap will be released in Irish cinemas via Wildcard Distribution in 2024, with the band's debut album also due this year.
JUST as Storm Isha passes, another storm is on the horizon - according to Met Eireann's latest weather update.

A status orange wind warning has been issued for Donegal as 'Storm Jocelyn' approaches. The weather warning, which is valid from 6pm on Tuesday until 2am on Wednesday, could bring large coastal waves, very difficult travelling conditions and fallen trees.

A status orange wind warning has also been issued for Galway and Mayo. The weather warning is in place from 6pm on Tuesday until 12am on Wednesday.

Met Eireann says "Storm Jocelyn will bring very strong southwest to west winds with severe and damaging gusts."

Also on Tuesday, a status yellow wind warning has been issued for Limerick and Clare, all of Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Tipperary, Waterford, Roscommon, Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Kerry, Galway and Mayo.

Yellow Wind Warning



Very strong & gusty SW to W winds



Onset from 12:00 & 17:00 depending on your area



For more info on warnings, times & regions please visithttps://t.co/w5QtJ1UyEP pic.twitter.com/2r7JioFUSY  Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 22, 2024

Separately, a status yellow wind warning for Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo remains in place until 7pm this evening.

Met Eireann reports that "very strong and gusty westerly winds" will hit those counties.

Further details of approach times can be found on the Met Eireann website HERE.
GINA RAIMONDO seemed frustrated when she took the stage at the Reagan National Defence Forum in California in December. The Department of Commerce, which she leads, had just tightened restrictions on the sale of American semiconductors to China. But Nvidia, the worlds most valuable chipmaker , had immediately started developing a new, slightly less powerful artificial-intelligence (AI) chip for the Chinese market, to which the restrictions would not apply. If you redesign a chipthat enables [China] to do AI, Im going to control it the very next day," Ms Raimondo warned.

That was bombastic, given that it had taken her department a full year to rework the restrictions to cut off Nvidias previous workaround. But Americas five-year campaign against Chinese technology is intensifying. Earlier this month it was reported that Jensen Huang, Nvidias chief executive, and two fellow chip bosses had been summoned to testify in Congress about their Chinese business. On January 19th ABB, a Swiss industrial group, revealed that American lawmakers were investigating its links with China. ABB said it was co-operating with the investigation; Nvidia has said that it is working closely with the government to ensure compliance with the export controls.

Neither Democrats nor Republicans are likely to relent. In a presidential-election year Joe Biden, the unpopular Democratic president, cannot afford to look weak on China. His Republican predecessor and main rival, Donald Trump, has long been Americas China-basher-in-chief. China hawks in Washington want to stymie Chinese efforts both to get around the rules and to recreate the necessary technological capabilities at home. However, the mixed record of export controls so far shows why harsher measures will be difficult to designand not necessarily more successful.

China has found some ways to work around the existing controls. To Ms Raimondos chagrin, for instance, it is possible to train AI models using chips that are not necessarily at the cutting edge, so long as you have enough of them. If the sale of any chip which can do AI" is to be banned, as she implies, America must restrict the flow of a much broader array of chips to China.

It is hard to know just how much broader. Trade statistics do not break out the graphics processing units (GPUs) used to train and run AI models from the larger flow of integrated circuits. But a sense of the scale of such a ban can be gleaned by examining the financial statements of Nvidia, which sells a range of GPUs. It has earned between 21% and 26% of its revenues from China over the past few years. In the nine months to October the company took in $8.4bn from the Chinese market. Almost all of Nvidias products can be used to do AI". Mr Huang has said that his firm has no contingency" for being cut off from China.

View Full Image (The Economist)

Another difficulty for America stems from enforcement. The Department of Commerce is empowered to punish any transgressions it discovers. Last year it fined Seagate, a hard-drive manufacturer, $300m for allegedly breaching export controls by sending components to Huawei, a blacklisted Chinese tech champion. But it is the chip firms themselves that are largely responsible for enforcement. That includes ensuring that their customers are not, in fact, a buying front for Chinese entities with which trade is prohibited. This is hard. You have coin-sized devices and technologies that are widely commercially available, and indistinguishable from the controlled technologies, distributed around the planet," says Kevin Wolf, an American lawyer and former official.

The result is a situation ripe for smuggling, which experts say is impossible to quantify but doubtless rife. It also encourages transshipment. Firms in countries that have not signed on to the American export-control regime, like Singapore, can buy chips and send them on to Chinese entities without the knowledge of the American firms or the Department of Commerce. Nvidias most recent quarterly earnings for 2023 show that its sales to Singapore grew by a factor of five over the same period in 2022, faster than anywhere else.

Of all customers in China, the one best placed to use such workarounds to get the chips it needs is the Peoples Liberation Army. If one of Americas main aims is to deny China access to advanced technology for developing military AI, it is probably failing. Instead the controls are raising the costs to Chinese buyers of acquiring American AI chips. That in turn is aligning Chinas tech sector with its governments policy of indigenous technological development. Chinese tech giants used to prefer buying higher-quality American technology to investing in research and development. Their incentives have changed.

The clearest evidence that this is happening comes from Huawei. The company, whose core business is making telecoms gear, was first targeted by America in 2019 for allegedly breaching sanctions on Iran. A measure called the foreign direct product rule" (FDPR) cut Huawei off from any chips that had been produced using American technology (which is to say virtually all sophisticated ones). In 2022 the FDPR was deployed against the entire Chinese AI industry, and broadened in October to encompass a wider range of AI chips and chipmaking tools, and to require licences to ship products to countries such as the United Arab Emirates (albeit not Singapore) that are thought to serve as middlemen for Chinese buyers.

Before it was blacklisted, Huawei had its microprocessors manufactured by TSMC, a Taiwanese contract chipmaker. It spent $5.4bn on TSMC-made chips in 2020, before Americas export controls extended to the Taiwanese firm. Now it is doing more business with SMIC, Chinas biggest chipmaker. SMICs capabilities were thought to be many years behind those of TSMC. But last year it came to light that the company was making a Huawei-designed AI chip, the Ascend (and a smartphone chip, the Kirin, which raised many Western eyebrows after Huawei unexpectedly launched a handset containing it in September).

With their access to foreign chips curtailed, Chinese AI companies are now turning to Huawei and SMIC for chips. Chinas government is encouraging them, and continuing to shower the industry with subsidies in the hope of creating an industry to rival Nvidia and other American companies. Export controls have, in effect, forced China to embrace import substitution.

The designers of Americas controls foresaw some of this. That is why, from the start, they also targeted Chinas ability to recreate advanced technology at home. The controls restrict trade not just in chips themselves but also in tools used to make them. That has involved bringing on board allies such as the Netherlands and Japan, home to many of the toolmakers. As with chips, the tool controls place limits on the sophistication of the equipment that can be sold to Chinese buyers. And as with chips, just how sophisticated a tool has to be to fall under the controls has been the subject of intense debate.

The critical machines are those used to etch transistors onto silicon wafers. The most cutting-edge equipment of this sort is made and sold exclusively by ASML, a Dutch company, and has been blocked from China for years. But older generations of such lithography tools can still be sold there. ASMLs sales to China have grown dramatically over the past year, as have those of companies that produce other chipmaking tools. In the most recent quarter Chinese sales made up almost half of ASMLs total revenue. Other toolmakers also sell lots of their wares to China (see chart).

But, as with chips, export controls are giving Chinese toolmakers a strong incentive to invest in catching up technologically with foreign rivals. Already domestic toolmakers sales are growing. On January 15th one of them, NAURA, which manufactures other etching tools, said it expected its revenue to have risen by almost 50% in 2023.

Americas campaign against Chinese technology may, then, be both ineffective and counterproductive. Ineffective, because China is adept at exploiting loopholes. And counterproductive, because it is leading to the creation of a more sophisticated Chinese industry. It may also be predicated on a wrong assumption: that the future economic and military balance of power depends on AI, and that AI depends on computing power. Both of these are guesses," points out Chris Miller, a historian of technology at Tufts University in Boston. It is far from clear that AI will have strategic importance. And even if it does, computing power may not be the overriding factor in its development. As Mr Miller points out, oomph is expensive, so AI developers will try to use it as sparingly as possible.

Despite all this, America seems likely to toughen up its export controls on AI chips, as Ms Raimondo all but promised in December. And Republican lawmakers are eyeing more expansive controls still. Some of them see a new threat coming from the other end of the sophistication spectrum, which is less about Chinas techno-military might and more about its economic power. Chips are required in growing volumes as components in everything from electric vehicles and heat pumps to electricity grids. By 2027 China could be making almost 40% of such semiconductors, reckons TrendForce, a research firm. The current export controls do nothing to curb Chinas dominance of this business, which uses a lot of older American technology.

Three congressional Republicans, Mike Gallagher, Elise Stefanik and Michael McCaul, are thus working on a bill which will force the commerce department to cut China off from all American chip technology, not just the most advanced stuff. Gaining support from allies for such an extreme policy will be hard. Japanese and Dutch businessesand their governmentsrankle even at the porous controls that are in place today. But if Mr Trump, an alliance sceptic, returns to power, the lack of support is unlikely to matter one bit.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Coimbatore, 22nd January 2024: Ashton Gray, a leading investment and development firm located in Houston, Texas, announces the launch of its latest and fifth land development project, Elgin , in India, exclusively for Indian investors. Nestled strategically in the heart of Bastrop County, Elgin offers convenient access to downtown Austin, a prominent city in Texas, located just 25 miles away. Situated in the robust suburbs of Austin, with amenities like an Elementary, Middle and International school, a Walmart Supercentre, a veterinary hospital and a host of other amenities and facilities, Elgin looks to be a promising investment to many.

Located in an A+ area, Elgin lies near another well-known suburb, Manor. Elgin is conveniently located on US-290, just 26 miles east of Austin, 30 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, within 90 miles of San Antonio, 125 miles of Houston, and 180 miles of Dallas. Encompassing an impressive 104 acres, Elgin features 610 lots, each between 30 or 40 feet wide, perfectly tailored for single-family homes.

To address the diverse needs of investors, Ashton Gray Investments offers two distinct models in its current investment opportunity:

Model 1 offers an annual return of 23%, comprising 12% interest on capital and 11% profit share. Investors will receive the accrued interest upon exit along with their capital, making it a lucrative 3- year investment opportunity for those aiming to build wealth.

For those in pursuit of a stable passive income, model 2 offers a solid annual return of 20%, consisting of 12% interest on capital and 8% profit share. With 6% p.a. distributed monthly, investors can enjoy a reliable income stream. The remaining percentage, along with their capital, will be settled after the 3- year period.

Ashton Gray has signed an LOI with D.R. Horton, Americas leading homebuilder, to acquire all 610 lots designated for single-family homes.

Operating in 33 states and 118 markets including 45 of homebuildings top 50 markets in the U.S., D.R. Horton has delivered over 10,00,000 homes in the country since inception.

Commenting on Ashton Grays opportunity launch, Sudharshan Vembutty, Founder and President, Ashton Gray Investments, said, We believe this next offering is a well thought-out progression in terms of the different types of investment structures we plan on bringing to Indian investors going forward and extremely pleased to see the kind of feedback we have received from our existing investor base, as well as dozens of new prospects within 24 hours of launching the investment."

Ashton Gray Investments offers the perfect opportunity for those Indian retail investors who wish to participate in the development and construction of Grade-A Real Estate assets in Texas, USA. As the global investment sphere continuously keeps changing, it is important to view change not as a disruptor but as an essential element of progress. One should be ready to adapt and anticipate the changing landscape and pivoting their strategies with purpose.

At Ashton Gray, we recognize that success stems from insightful navigation through evolving trends. Our commitment is not just to navigate shifts but to proactively seek opportunities within them. We believe that insightful investing goes beyond reacting to change; it involves anticipating trends, identifying hidden potentials, and steering our strategies with a foresight that adds profound value to our investors' portfolios," commented Sumi Rengaraj, CEO and Co-founder, Ashton Gray Investments.

As a brand, Ashton Gray Investments is focusing its efforts on becoming known as the leading player in international private equity real estate and currently has its Indian offices in Coimbatore and Mumbai. In the process of establishing its blueprint, over the next 12 months Ashton Gray is poised to grow bigger and faster as it continues to expand its operations in India. A key focus for the firm in the short-terms is to add more talent to its workforce with the sole aim of stepping up its market outreach to more and more investors.

For more information, kindly refer to the website www.ashtongray.in/www.ashtongraydev.com.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Bengaluru, 19th January 2024: Centricity, a Gurugram-based wealthtech startup, proudly announces the grand inauguration of its new office in Bengaluru, expanding its footprint into the south market. Strategically located on the bustling Church Street, it will cater to a diverse set of requirements in wealth management and financial product distribution across the region. Centricity has started hiring select talent across a range of capabilities and is welcoming new hires in Bengaluru. Since Centricity started operations in April 2023, it has created a vast network of more than 1600 financial product distributors across 12 states and 15 cities, onboarding over 2000 clients.

Highlighting the strategic significance of the Bengaluru office, Anirudh Mahanot, Founding Team Member and Business Head (South & West India) at Centricity, expressed, "Bengaluru is a pivotal market for us, and this new office represents our commitment to innovation. With this new office we are aiming to reach more people and bridge the gap among Investors, Wealth Managers & Asset Managers. Our tie-up with IIT Madras research park is working on specialized modules to integrate elements of AI and ML to make this platform efficient."

Founding Partners, Manu Awasthy (CEO) and Gaurav Tiwari, along with senior team members Vinayak Magotra, Arpita Hegde and Abhay Mishra, and Centricity team graced the event. The Bengaluru office will be led by Anirudh Mahanot and his dedicated team, including Attaur Khan (Branch Manager, Bangalore) and Shankar PA (Branch Manager, Bangalore).

Centricitys OneDigital" is Indias first tech-enabled multi-asset class, multi-product platform that enables MFDs to access a comprehensive digital financial product listing, execute transactions digitally and deliver multi-product and multi-advisor client portfolio reports seamlessly. It also equips MFDs with tools such as goal planning, a learning & development library, portfolio analytics and more.

Centricity's second platform, "INVICTUS," caters to single-family offices, UHNI, and corporate treasuries with portfolios exceeding 100cr. INVICTUS serves as an insights engine, simplifying investment management processes and offering holistic reporting, investment reckoner, portfolio scanner, liquidity profile, and performance tracking.

Having also achieved ISO27001:2022 and RIA licence, Centricity has ambitious plans for the upcoming year, including expanding business development teams, adding tech talent, achieving ESG compliance. Initiatives such as setting up a support call centre, applying for broking licenses, conducting many more distributor partner roadshows, and offering mortgages for distributors are also in the pipeline.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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In the US, there are roughly 4.3 million software developers. Enterprise applications serve as the foundation for 84.7% of software development initiatives. 38.50% of software development projects are focused on eCommerce, while 53.6% of them are centered on business automation. The demand for dedicated developers is increasing because they are capable of offering the scalability and flexibility required to adjust to shifting project priorities or requirements. Working with committed developers gives you the freedom to grow or shrink the project as necessary.

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Wipro serves healthcare, financial services, energy, and technology organizations. Consultancy, application development, infrastructure, and BPO are its specialities. Continuous learning and adaptation have helped Wipro navigate the quickly changing technological environment and offer value to customers.

HCL Technologies

One of HCL's core values is digital transformation for customers. This "Employees First, Customers Second" concept has made HCL successful. This strategy focuses on employee happiness and engagement, thinking happy workers make happy consumers. The enthusiasm, knowledge, and dedication to excellence of HCL's employees distinguish the organization.

Tech Mahindra

Innovation, digital transformation, and customer-centric solutions have made Tech Mahindra a leading IT services and BPO provider. The firm offers IT consulting, application development, infrastructure management, and BPO. Tech Mahindra's competence in AI, blockchain, and the IoT makes it a key partner for companies navigating the digital age.

Raftlab

After entering the IT business recently, Raftlab has quickly become known for its commitment to innovation and future-ready solutions. Raftlab's mission is to foster a culture of creativity. Teams are encouraged to try new things and technology and think creatively. This method has yielded innovative answers to current issues and future trends.

Gearheart

Gearheart provides unique software solutions with quality, precision, and a client-centric approach. The company's focus on accurate and personalized software solutions is notable. To ensure the solution meets customers' business objectives, the organization works closely with them to understand their needs. This emphasis on personalization has made Gearheart a top software developer.

L&T Infotech

An extensive range of IT services is L&T Infotech's strength. It offers customers consultancy, digital transformation, application development, and infrastructure management across sectors. The L&T Infotech methodology combines subject experience and technical innovation. Trained experts work together to understand customers' concerns and create personalized solutions that achieve commercial results.

Hexaware Tech

The company's focus on intelligent automation is unique. RPA, AI, and machine learning help the organization simplify, improve, and innovate. Intelligent automation solutions from Hexaware serve banking, healthcare, travel, and logistics. Diverse professionals represent Hexaware's collaborative and creative culture. Cutting-edge solutions are made possible by Hexaware's ability to react to industry developments.

Of the companies on the list above, Sapphire Software Solutions is the right choice if you want to hire dedicated developers in USA. Apart from this, The Manifest has also recognized it as the web development company with the best reviews, based on ratings from clients. The most reliable platform, CLUTCH globally, has recognized it as the top IT firm for hiring developers. Sapphire has helped big clients like American Express, Vedanta, Morris Garages, Bayer, Cummins, and Adani build their businesses by completing more than 1500 projects and offering first-rate services.

About CEO

Kumaril Patel-

An inspiration to people he works with, CEO Kumaril Patel of Sapphire Software Solutions is a multinational corporation. For almost two decades, Kumaril has led the company with the same enthusiasm, dedication, and excitement as a mentor, role model, and leader. With a team of seasoned professionals and a creative mindset, his contribution is essential to Sapphire's ascent. Kumaril Patel's outstanding impact and contribution to the tech industry have earned him recognition as the top CEO across a range of mediums.

Sapphire Software Solutions.

Kumaril Patel

Number: +1-754-258-7670

Email: contact@sapphiresolutions.net

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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What is OctaFX? Founded on principles of transparency, innovation, and client satisfaction, OctaFX has emerged as a distinguished player in the competitive forex brokerage landscape. Popular in India, OctaFX has made itself known for reliability and excellence in service delivery since opening for business in 2011.

The platform caters to a global clientele, serving traders in over 180 countries. One of OctaFX tradings standout features is that it offers a range of different account types, catering to the unique needs of different traders. Virtually any kind of trader can find the platform and tools that suit them best.

Forex trading has emerged in recent years as a transformative force, reshaping the global investment landscape over the past two decades. What was once a niche endeavor confined to financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals has now become a democratic space, thanks to the rise of online trading platforms.

This evolution has opened the door for individuals worldwide to participate in the foreign exchange market, drawn by the promise of liquidity, accessibility, and the potential for profit. As the popularity of forex trading continues to surge, robust platforms like OctaFX trading have positioned themselves as indispensable tools for traders, offering a wealth of features and resources to navigate this intricate financial terrain.



The Evolution of Forex Trading

The journey of forex trading over the last 20 years mirrors a technological revolution that has significantly altered the financial landscape. The advent of the internet and the development of sophisticated trading platforms have democratized access to the forex market, allowing traders of varying experience levels to engage with currencies, commodities, and other financial instruments.

Technological advancements, including algorithmic trading and mobile applications, have further amplified the accessibility and efficiency of forex trading. This transformation has not only expanded the participant base but has also heightened the market's dynamism, making it an attractive arena for those seeking diverse investment opportunities. No system is perfect or without its potential pitfalls, but with the way that forex trading is developing, it seems that theres no better time to try your hand than now.

Navigating Forex Trading for Newbies

For individuals venturing into the complex world of forex trading, understanding the nuances of the market is paramount. Novice traders often grapple with a multitude of factors, including market volatility, diverse trading strategies, and the significance of risk management. Recognizing these challenges, Octa positions itself as a beacon for traders at all experience levels.

The platform not only provides a user-friendly interface for executing trades but also prioritizes education, offering a comprehensive suite of resources, webinars, and guides. OctaFX makes it a point to be there for new traders, as an informed trader feels empowered and is a confident player in the market.

OctaFX's Features and Benefits

OctaFX distinguishes itself through a myriad of features and benefits aimed at enhancing the trader's experience. At the forefront is the proprietary Octatrader tool, an advanced trading platform that offers a seamless experience with intuitive charting and analysis tools. Traders benefit from competitive trading conditions, including tight spreads, rapid execution, and access to a variety of trading instruments. The platform's commitment to leveraging technology is further demonstrated by its handy mobile app.

Insights from OctaFX Reviews

User reviews serve as a crucial barometer for assessing a platform's performance and reliability. OctaFX reviews consistently underscore some pretty great benefits, such as ease of use, making trading fun and profitable, and supporting customers around the clock.

Positive feedback often emphasizes OctaFX's unwavering commitment to client satisfaction, making it a trustworthy choice in the competitive forex brokerage landscape. Users frequently praise the platform's efforts in providing a secure and reliable trading environment, reinforcing OctaFX tradings position as a reliable partner in the world of online trading. Here are several examples:



-Trustpilot.com

View Full Image Trustpilot.com

-Reviews.io

View Full Image Reviews.io

-Mouthshut.com

View Full Image Mouthshut.com

OctaFX's Legality in India

Is OctaFX legal in India? Controversies surrounding the legality of OctaFX in India have stirred discussions within the trading community. Despite the debate, it's crucial to underscore that OctaFX operates in India legally. The platform adheres to international regulatory standards and holds licenses from reputable authorities.

This multi-jurisdictional compliance highlights OctaFX's transparency and how they strive to provide a secure and legitimate trading environment for its Indian clientele. As OctaFX continues to evolve, it remains a steadfast partner for traders navigating the complexities of the global financial markets.

Conclusion

To sum up, the trajectory of forex trading over the last two decades has been marked by innovation, accessibility, and the empowerment of individual traders. Especially popular in India, OctaFX stands out in particular as a great tool for traders of any experience level. From educational resources for beginners to advanced trading tools for seasoned investors, OctaFX brokers exemplify a definite commitment to excellence.

As traders worldwide seek reliable and innovative platforms, the platform continues to shine as a beacon in the dynamic realm of online forex trading, fostering a community of informed and empowered participants.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same. The article does not constitute financial advice.

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Nokia appears to have found a new buyer for its stake in TD Tech, a Beijing-headquartered joint venture with Huawei.

Local news outlets reported that a consortium consisting of the state-owned Chengdu Gaoxin Jicui Technology and Chengdu Hi-Tech Investment Group, as well as private investment company Huagai Capital, had expressed interest in acquiring Nokias 51% stake in TD Tech.

The South China Morning Post (SCMP) noted that the Chinese State Administration for Market Regulation had invited public feedback on the proposal after expressing no concerns over the deal, which would see Huawei take ownership of the unit together with the consortium.

Nokia made an attempt to sell the unit in 2023, with New East Materials keen to acquire the stake. Huawei hit out at the choice, arguing that it did not approve of the partner and had no capacity to run the business with the proposed buyer. New East Materials backed out of the deal in December 2023.

Formed in 2005, TD Techs initial remit was to create 3G systems for the Chinese market, but this has expanded to include specialist 5G equipment as well as industrial IoT and associated systems. Nokia describes the unit as a legacy venture, with SCMP reporting that Huawei largely controls the venture despite technically being the smaller partner.
To commemorate the momentous occasion of Ayodhya Ram Mandir 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony', budget carrier SpiceJet has announced a special sale with airfare starting from 1622* (all-in) on non-stop domestic and international flights. SpiceJet presents a special sale with airfares starting from Rs. 1622, with up to 30% off on add-ons, in honour of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. Fly with blessings!" the airline posted on social media platform X.

Also Read: Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony LIVE Updates

SpiceJet's special sale

Booking Period: January 22  28, 2024

Travel Period: January 22  September 30, 2024

The sale offer is available only on select domestic and international, direct one-way flights.

Limited seats are available under this offer, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The sale fare will be applicable on saver fare only. The sale offer will not be applicable on special fares.

The sale fare will not be applicable on group bookings.

The bookings made under sale fare are refundable with applicable cancellation charges.

This offer cannot be combined with any other offer.

Blackout dates are applicable.

The sale fare will be available across the SpiceJet network including the website, m-site, mobile app, reservations, and select travel agents.

SpiceJet to start more direct flights to Ayodhya

In addition to the special sale and to mark this occasion, SpiceJet has announced the launch of new flights connecting major cities of India to Ayodhya starting from 1st February, 2024.

On January 19, SpiceJet on Friday said it would start direct flights to Ayodhya from the national capital, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Patna, and Darbhanga starting February 1.

In a statement, the carrier said the strategic expansion will also contribute to the growth of regional air connectivity.

Earlier, the airline had announced non-stop flights to Ayodhya from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai.

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BENGALURU : Eruditus, founded in 2010 by Chaitanya Kalipatnapu and Ashwin Damera and headquartered in Singapore, is evaluating if it would be feasible for the executive education startup to move its base to India to capitalise on growing opportunities in the market.

It is a fact that the Indian stock markets are far more attractive than the global peers," said Damera in an interview with Mint.

Sometime in the future we will have to figure out how to give an exit to the investors. It could be a sale, a larger PE fund buys them out, or it could be an initial public offering. In that scheme of things, we have starting the process of evaluating what a reverse flip to India looks like and if it is even feasible for us," Damera said.

Reserve flip refers to an Indian company moving its headquarters from overseas to domicile in India. Economic Times reported earlier on Monday citing sources that Eruditus was considering a shift in domicile from Singapore to India.

Multiple startups incorporated overseas have been considering a move back to India to take advantage of the Indian markets, but such a decision would be accompanied by high tax implications. PhonePes investors ended up paying $1 billion in taxes after the company switched its domicile to India.

On Monday, Eruditus, which is operated by Singapore-based Eruditus Learning Solutions Pte Ltd, reported a 70% increase in revenue to 3,343 crore for FY23, even as it managed to shrink its losses by 66% to 1,049 crore.

Currently, about 80% of Eruditus revenue comes from overseas markets, but its India revenue has been rising.

Indias contribution to the revenue of the ed-tech unicorn will increase from 20% to 33% in the next three years, said Damera.

We started working with some Indian universities only in 2019, but India is a fast-growing segment for us. India was about less than 10% three years ago and now its about 20%. Maybe in the next three years, it will be about a third of our operations," said Damera.

Eruditus had seen greater growth in its enterprise, or business-to-business, segment. B2B has grown the fastest, (it) has seen 100% year-on-year growth, while the overall company has grown 70%," said Damera.

For FY24, Damera said he expects the companys revenue to grow by about 40% to about 4,200 crore.

He also expects the company to be profitable on a full-year basis in the current fiscal year. Eruditus follows a June-July financial year. Mint reported in May 2023 that the company expected to break even in June 2023.

On fundraising, Damera said the company doesnt need to raise primary capital in a hurry. The company is doing well so investors are not scrambling."

Eruditus offers management education programs including short courses, degree programs, professional certificates, and senior executive programs in collaboration with universities in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, India, and China.

On the market in India for such courses, Damera said demand is much larger in India but the ability to pay is lower.

He also noted that online education in the US is far more evolved than in India. Its during Covid that the government in India started pushing for online education and institutions have also realised that they need to up their technology versus in the US, where they have been teaching online for 10-15 years," he said.

In India, there is no system of paying royalty to faculty, which becomes a challenge. Most of the online (education) that happens in India is faculty teaching live instead of recorded lectures, so faculty gets compensated per hour. We record lectures in the US, and for case studies and some projects, the faculty comes live," he said.

Several edtech companies in India have gone the traditional route, conducting classes in person in addition to online courses to be able to attract more students. Damera said Eruditus will look at offline from a distribution perspective to reach more students. From a product perspective, we are open to doing online, but in some cases also blended programs where you do online and one or two offline classes."

Eruditus may also expand beyond its core executive education focus, he said.

There are 20,000 universities in the world and we are working with about 80, so there is a large room to grow," Damera said.

Today our core business is working professionals, we don't have anything for students who are undergraduates or graduates. We are hoping to launch a study-abroad segment this year," he said. AI has become very big, so we are looking to introduce more courses in our portfolio and work more with Indian institutions, helping them go online faster."

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udaan, Indias largest business-to-business e-commerce platform, on Monday announced the resignation of its chief financial officer (CFO) Aditya Pande, the third top exit over the past few months.

The B2B e-commerce platform, in a statement, informed that the CFO's role will be taken care of by Kiran Thadimarri, Group Finance Controller, and Vishnu Menon, who heads corporate strategy and investor relations (IR) as the CFO Pande has decided to pursue opportunities outside of the company, after a successful stint of over three years.

Vaibhav Gupta, CEO and co-founder of uddan said, "I would like to thank Aditya for his invaluable contribution to the organisation and wish him the very best in his future endeavours."

"During his tenure, Aditya played a pivotal role in shaping udaans financial strategy marked by strategic financial decision-making, implementation of resilient financial systems, successful fundraising and a razor-sharp focus on fiscal management," the company said.

Thadimarri has been elevated to the executive management team with additional responsibility of treasury, corporate finance and corporate audit. He has been with Udaan for three years and Menon for four years. In his enhanced role, Thadimarri will report to CEO Vaibhav Gupta.

Vishnu Menon, Head of Corporate Strategy and investor relations, will take on the additional responsibility of business finance, as part of the organisational changes.

Also Read | Sena vs Sena: Supreme Court issues notice to Eknath Shinde faction

"Both Kiran and Vishnu will work towards further strengthening the financial and governance practices at Udaan with the objective of enabling the company to achieve operational profitability and public market readiness in the next 12-18 months," the company said in a statement.

It is important to note that chief business officer (CBO) Vivek Gupta and chief technology officer (CTO) Gaurav Bhalotia left the company in September last year, after the B2B e-commerce platform merged its essentials business with the discretionary business.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration Photos: PM Modi unveils Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya

Announcing the organisational changes, udaan said these are in line with the company's commitment to drive profitable growth and continue strengthening core capabilities.

The release mentioned that Thadimarri, a qualified Chartered Accountant, has been associated with udaan for close to three years.

In a career spanning two decades, Kiran graduated from GE's premier leadership programmes, was CFO of GE Water, South Asia, has worked closely with Aditya Pande (outgoing Group CFO, udaan) at GE Healthcare during his 14-year stint at GE, and subsequently co-founded a healthcare technology distribution company.

Vishnu Menon, Head - Corporate Strategy & IR, takes on the additional responsibility of business finance, and will continue to report to the CEO. Menon has been associated with udaan for the past four years. An MBA from IIM Calcutta with a degree in Engineering from the Kerala University, Menon in the past has worked as a management consultant with Bain & Co and was also the Founder & CEO of Wandertrails, an experiential travel startup.

COFORGE More Information

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NEW DELHI : InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of Indias largest airline IndiGo, has announced the appointment of Aditya Pande as group chief executive officer with effect from March.

Pande joins the travel conglomerate from Udaan, Indias largest enterprise e-commerce company, where he was chief financial officer the past three years. Udaan announced his resignation on Monday.

Pande had previously worked with InterGlobe Enterprises subsidiary InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, which runs IndiGo, where he was CFO from August 2019 to February 2021.

In his new role, with the exception of IndiGo, Pande will have be responsible for setting the groups overall strategy. He will report to group managing director Rahul Bhatia.

Over a career spanning 25 years, Pande has also worked at General Electric and US accounting firm Arthur Andersen.

This imperative move by InterGlobe is to strengthen its current leadership team as it moves ahead with its ambitious and diversified global plans," InterGlobe Enterprises said in a statement.

InterGlobe Enterprisess business spans hospitality, logistics, airline management, travel commerce, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance engineering. The company employs more than 58,000 professionals.

In November, InterGlobe Enterprises signed an agreement with California-based Archer Aviation to launch an electric air taxi business in India, subject to regulatory approvals.

INTERGLOBE AVIATION More Information

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NEW DELHI : The price of the Indian basket of crude oil is unlikely to reflect cheap Russian oil prices in the next financial year despite making up a significant chunk of Indias oil imports.

The Indian basket of crude oil represents a derived basket comprising of sour grade (Oman & Dubai average) and sweet grade (Brent dated) of crude oil processed in Indian refineries in a ratio of 75.62 : 24.38.

Two people aware of the developments said that irrespective of the quantity of Russian oil imports the crude basket price may not include their price as there is no benchmark price of the Russian crude variants.

The price of the Indian basket of crude oil is meant to largely represent the cost of the countrys crude imports. Given that discounted Russian supplies constitute a large part of the total imports, the actual cost of the imports would be lower than the price represented by the Indian basket.

After India became a major buyer of Russian oil in FY23 backed by deep discounts post sanctions imposed by the West, there were expectations that the ratio for the calculation of the basket price would be revised to include Russian supplies. It was not included in this fiscal and there were expectations of its reflection when the change is made for FY25.

Going ahead also the crude basket price will not reflect the Russian imports as there is no benchmark price of those crudes. Russian crude is not traded on the exchanges. How does one benchmark them? There would be a slight revision in the basket price ratio. But, it would only include the price of the existing Brent, Oman and Dubai crudes," said one of the two people mentioned above.

The other person said: Refiners are buying Russian oil at discounted rates and there is no certainty on the prices. So, its difficult to take a benchmark price."

Queries mailed to the union ministry of petroleum and natural gas remained unanswered till press time.

The crude basket price is a key reference for the government on policy matters, economic analysis, taxation and gas prices. Under the new gas pricing norms, the price of domestic natural gas is set at 10% of the Indian basket crude price every month.

In case Russian crude price is included in the India crude basket, the basket price may see a decline of around $4 per barrel in the current scenario as it forms around 30% of the total oil imports. Given that the Russian imports were insignificant till few years back, it may have not been reflected in the crude basket. However, India has further diversified its import sources which are by and large not reflected in the basket price," said Prashant Vasisht, senior vice president & co-group headCorporate Ratings, Icra Limited.

On 18 January, the price of the India crude basket stood at $78.46 per barrel. So far this month, it has averaged at $77.87 a barrel, against $77.42 per barrel in December.

Noting that the government of India watches the index while examining the domestic price issues, the parliamentary standing committee on petroleum and natural gas in its recent report on the review of policy on import of crude oil said that the crude oil from West Asia generally costs more due to the levy of Asian premium by these countries, the Indian crude basket is higher.

The committee, therefore, recommend to Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas / Oil PSUs to diversify their imports of crude oil and explore the feasibility of buying more grades of crude oil with the objective of reducing the cost of Indian crude basket of the country," it said.

From about 2% imports from Russian before its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country now is the largest supplier of crude oil to India. According to latest data from the union ministry of commerce and industry, a total of $3.61 billion worth of crude was imported from Russia in November, accounting for 30% of Indias total $11.86 billion oil imports during the month.

Since the conflict in February 2022, Russia has become the top supplier due to deep discounts of over $30 per barrel, although these have recently reduced it to below $5 per barrel.

Indias oil imports from Iraq in November, the second largest supplier, stood at $2.84 billion.

The second person mentioned above, however said that the imports from Russia would come only as long as the discounts are offered. In case discounts are not offered by Russia, West Asia may remain the preferred source given the lower cost of logistics, the person added.
New Delhi: This will be the innovation of the century for the mankind". Thats how the 2020-21 annual report of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd (Iffco), Indias largest producer of crop nutrients, began. The reference was to nano urea, a fertilizer the company developed. The product has the power to revolutionize farming and fight climate change," Iffco further stated.

In August 2021, Iffco commercially launched the worlds first nano urea. It claimed that a 500ml bottle of nano urea is as effective as a 45kg bag of urea. While a bottle of nano urea costs just 225, the actual cost of a bag of urea, including government subsidies, is 3,000.

Urea is the most popular crop nutrientthe most important source of nitrogen for crops which is required for photosynthesis and vegetative growth.

With two sprays, farmers could drastically reduce the use of granular and heavily subsidized urea by almost half. The fertilizer ministry estimates that a 25% replacement of regular urea with non-subsidized nano urea could save the exchequer up to 20,000 crore every year.

A few numbers show why nano fertilizers are critical. The subsidy outgo for urea was a staggering 2.5 trillion in the previous two years, 2021-22 and 2022-23. Farmers pay less than 300 per 50kg bag of urea while it costs 3,000 to produce one. Of the 35 million tonnes (mt) of urea applied by farmers every year, imports account for about 8-9mt.

In 2021-22 and 2022-23, Iffco produced 77 million bottles of nano urea and sold 54 million bottles to farmers. The target is to raise annual production to 440 million bottles by 2025, which can cut use of regular urea by a staggering 20mt. This would result in self-sufficiency in urea production and no importsa major feat, if achieved.

The hope laid out by nano urea, however, has been marred by several discomforting developments. Farmers have questioned the efficacy of the product and say they are forced to purchase it in a bundleone bottle for every four or five bags of regular urea they need. Fertilizer cooperatives which supply subsidized nutrients to farmers say they have no option but to push sales as Iffco has made supply of regular urea conditional to sales of nano urea.

Meanwhile, some soil scientists have termed the product dubious, calling for an extensive review before scaling up production. A recent study reported a significant drop in wheat and rice yields following use of nano urea. An international review said the product is marketed with misleading and wrong statements and may lead to large-scale yield losses with serious consequences for food security.

Forced sales

Iffco was set up in 1967 as a farmer cooperative to produce fertilizers indigenously. With five plants spread across the country, it manufactures nearly a fifth of all nitrogenous fertilizers produced in India. In 2022-23, it recorded a turnover of 60,324 crore and an after tax profit of 3,053 crore. Nano urea can add handsomely to its coffers, going ahead. If the company produces 440 million bottles by 2025 as planned, it can make close to 10,000 crore in revenue. Farmers say that the fertilizer maker is aggressively pushing sales.

According to Iffco, the liquid nano urea is made of nano nitrogen particles with a size range between 20-50 nanometers. A nanometer is a billionth of a meter. When sprayed on crop leaves (foliar spray), the nano nitrogen particles easily penetrate through leaf pores and are more efficiently absorbed by plants. This means better physiological growth of plants and higher yields.

Iffco recommends farmers to use granular urea during planting of crops, and replace later applications with sprays of nano urea. In addition to saving the total quantity of urea applied, nano urea is expected to improve soil health, reduce emission of polluting nitrogen oxides, and correct overuse of subsidized urea by farmers.

To give a leg-up to adoption of nano fertilizers, Iffco plans to deploy 2,500 drones for spraying of nutrients. Alongside, the centre is also promoting kisan drones by providing 40-100% subsidies up to a maximum of 10 lakh per drone. A central scheme has set a target to provide 15,000 women self-help groups with drones which can be hired by farmers for spraying fertilizer and pesticides.

In this ebullient narrative, farmers are telling a different story. Firstly, most are unconvinced that nano urea is effective. Also, because a bottle of nano urea ( 225) is just 10% cheaper than the price of a 45 kg bag of regular urea, they prefer to use regular urea to save on the labour costs of spraying.

Sohaljit Singh, a farmer from Yamuna Nagar in Haryana told Mint that he sprayed nano urea on his paddy crop last year. But there was no visible improvement in the crop and he promptly shifted to regular urea. It takes less than half an hour to broadcast urea (by hand) on an acre. But for nano urea, I have to spend an extra 250-300 for labour costs of spraying," Singh said.

For a farmer cultivating five acres, this means an additional spending of 2,500 every season on two sprays.

Sohaljit added that for the 11 acres he cultivates, the requirement is around 30 bags of urea per crop. But the local cooperative pushed him to purchase five bottles of nano urea which are gathering dust. If nano urea was useful, why would farmers stand in a queue for long hours to buy regular urea every season?" asked Singh.

The chairman of a farmers cooperative society in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan who did not want to be named said that nano urea has become sort of Achilles heel. During the winter crop season, we asked for 400 bags of urea but Iffco also sent 50 bottles of nano urea with it. We have to force farmers to buy it, else we will run into losses," he said.

The chairman added that, at state level meetings with Iffco, most cooperatives had the same complaint. I have used the product in my own field and it did not work. I requested Iffco officials to take my field as a test plot to demonstrate that nano urea works. They did not. At the end of the day, I am answerable to the farmers who are upset about this unnecessary selling," he said.

So far, farmers from states like Punjab and Gujarat have staged protests against forced sales of nano urea. But as Iffco scales up production and the government moves to replace conventional urea with nano urea, the issue could snowball into a major conflict.

Large variations

Mint sent a list of queries to Iffco on farmer complaints and questions raised by scientists but did not receive a response. Test results available on Iffcos website list results from both farmer and research field trials from multiple locations across 21 states. The results indicate 3-24% improvement in yields for paddy and wheat, and 5-18% yield gains for vegetables like tomato and capsicum.

But it is unclear why there is a large variation in yield gains. For instance, a trial on wheat at the Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat, reported just 3% yield gain over conventionally grown wheat. While another research trial in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, reported a staggering 23% yield improvement!

During an interaction with reporters last week, fertilizer minister Mansukh Mandaviya told Mint that there is no issue with the efficacy of nano fertilizers. Farmers need to be trained to utilize it in the right manner to increase crop productivity," he said.

Mandaviya added that conventional urea has to be applied at the time of sowing, followed by the first and second sprays of nano urea at an interval of a month and before flowering.

A parliamentary standing committee on chemicals and fertilizers, which submitted its report in March last year, lauded the introduction of nano urea but recommended long-term research trials covering major crops and soil types.

Long-term effects of nano fertilizers on the nutritional quality of various crops cannot be drawn as till date the research trials being conducted have completed only one year and, in most cases, only one season," it observed.

Dubious science

View Full Image Some soil scientists have termed nano urea dubious, calling for an extensive review before scaling up production. A recent study reported a significant drop in wheat and rice yields.

After nano urea was launched commercially in 2021, N. K. Tomar, a retired professor of soil science at Haryana Agricultural University, was the first to raise red flags on the science behind the product.

According to Tomar, to produce a ton of wheat, about 25kg of nitrogen is required by plants, while a bottle of nano urea contains just 9.2gm of nitrogen (for comparison, a 45kg bag of urea contains 20kg of nitrogen). So even with a 100% efficiency in nitrogen uptake by plants, application of nano urea will result in a drastic reduction in yields.

For nano urea to work, fundamental principles of chemistry must be violated," Tomar said.

A review of nano urea published in the journal Plant Soil in August last year concurs with Tomars observation. The title of the paper, by M. Frank and S. Husted, from the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, is scathing: Is Indias largest fertilizer manufacturer misleading farmers and society using dubious plant and soil science?

Nano urea is a scarcely characterized product with no or poor scientifically proven effects, the authors wrote. The product is promoted with misleading and wrong statements about its efficiency as a fertilizer, plant uptake pathways, and environmental friendliness."

Frank and Husted also warned of serious risks associated with large-scale production and commercial ambitions of Iffco: losses to farmers, food insecurity, environmental risks, social disruption and conflicts.

To make matters worse for Iffco, a field study by the Punjab Agricultural University, published earlier this month in its monthly journal Progressive Farming, reported a 13% and 21.6% drop in rice and wheat yields, respectively. The field trials which were conducted for two consecutive years also found a 17% and 11.5% decline in grain nitrogen content in rice and wheat. A decrease in grain nitrogen content means lower protein content and poor nutritional quality of grains.

The authors of the report concluded that the over-claim by Iffco will require more long-term studies for at least five-seven years, and based on the information generated so far, use of nano urea cannot be recommended for use on rice and wheat crops.

I am intrigued as I have been unable to find a single recommendation by any agricultural university or the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (Icar, the apex public research body) to use nano urea," said Ajay Vir Jakhar, former head of the Punjab Farmers Commission and a practicing farmer. Farmers are forced to purchase a product based on the manufacturers claims, added Jakhar.

To be sure, the ministry of chemicals and fertilizers maintains that nano urea has been provisionally notified under the Fertilizer Control Orderwhich lays down the substances that can be used as a fertilizerbased on encouraging results from field trials conducted by Icar and state agricultural universities.

A paper published in Nature in October last year concluded that use of nano fertilizers can enhance nitrogen use efficiency and reduce losses due to nitrogen volatilization. But the authors, scientists from Icar institutes and state agricultural universities, also said that while there are some positive effects of nano-urea on the growth and yield of wheat, it cannot replace a bag of urea as claimed by the product manufacturers.

The farmers seem to be caught in this quagmire of claims and counterclaims. So, they are both reluctant and wary of taking the revolutionary road.

Puja Das contributed to this story.
Soon after returning to the national capital Delhi after presiding over the "Pran Pratishtha" ceremony at the "historic" Ayodhya Ram Mandir in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced the government's decision to start 'Pradhanmantri Surydaya Yojana', an initiative to generate electricity through solar energy.

"All the devotees of the world always get energy from the light of Suryavanshi Lord Shri Ram. Today, on the auspicious occasion of consecration in Ayodhya, my resolution got further strengthened that the people of India should have their own solar rooftop system on the roof of their houses," Prime Minister Modi posted on X. Also Read | 'Sign from the Lord': Punit Goenka tweets from Ram Janmabhoomi as Zee-Sony merger fails "The first decision I have taken after returning from Ayodhya is that our government will launch Pradhanmantri Suryodaya Yojana" with the target of installing rooftop solar on 1 crore houses. This will not only reduce the electricity bill of the poor and middle class but will also make India self-reliant in the energy sector," the prime minister added.

PM Modi also posted pictures of him discussing the scheme with officials in the national capital following his return from Ayodhya.

Also Read | When will Ayodhya Ram Mandir open for public? All you need to know

Earlier in the day, after presiding over the Pran Pratishtha" ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the prime minister said some people used to say that Shri Ram Mandir's construction would set off a fire in the country.

Ram is not fire but energy, Ram is not dispute but solution, Ram is not merely ours but of everyone and Ram is not only the present but also eternal", PM Modi said, adding that the temple is also a symbol of peace, patience, harmony and amity in Indian society."

Ram defines the spirit of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam' (the world is a family), PM Modi added.

He sought to strike an emotional chord with the masses saying "our Ram" has arrived after wait, patience and sacrifices of centuries.

"Our Ram Lalla will no longer live in a tent. Our Ram Lalla will stay in a magnificent temple," PM Modi said in his 36-minute speech.

He urged everyone to do their bit in building a strong, capable, grand and divine India, saying they should not miss out at a time when the country is passing through a positive and constructive period. There is not an iota of space for any despondency, he said.

The Ram temple, the prime minister said, will be a witness to India's rise and dawn of a developed and magnificent India. January 22, 2024, is not merely a date but marks the advent of a new era, he added.

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Earlier this month, the Atal Setu, or the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai, was inaugurated. For a 22-km journey, users will be charged a toll of 250 one way. The concept of pay-and-ride on Indian roads has been on the rise. The bulk of Indias road toll revenues come from national highways, rising from 17,759 crore in 2015-16 to 48,028 crore in 2022-23. According to union minister for road transport Nitin Gadkari, the government is targeting revenues of 1.3 trillion by 2030, reflecting an average annual growth of 15%.

Since 2013-14, the total length of national highways has risen around 1.5 times to 145,000 km. However, the last few years have seen the length of highways subject to tolls double. Further, the number of toll plazas on national highways has risen more than five times between 2014-15 and 2021-22, now totalling 959, as per information available on the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) website.

Under the governments National Monetization Pipeline to monetize public assets, around 6 trillion of revenue was expected between 2021-22 and 2024-25. Of this, the roads sector is expected to be the biggest contributor, at 27%, according to NITI Aayog. Approximately 26,700 km of road assets are set to be monetized, focusing on highways with four or more lanes, excluding certain sections operated by the private sector. This suggests continued sharp increases in both the extent of tolled highways and the number of toll plazas.

Falling averages

But not all highways are equally lucrative. As the government increases the number of toll plazas and the length of highways being tolled, by design, it ends up adding sections that are less remunerative. Thus, the average toll revenue per plaza has declined from 116 crore in 2015-16 to 46 crore in 2021-22. Seen another way, the average revenue per tolled kilometre has declined from 94 lakh to 88 lakh over this period.

NITI Aayog, in the section in its report where it assesses the potential of road projects for future monetization, says: The average realisation by NHAI under past TOT [toll-operate-transfer] concessions successfully awarded has been in the range of 9-14 crore per km. A lower range at 6 crore per km has been assumed to assess indicative monetization value to factor in certain lower traffic stretches in the portfolio and impact of scale on monetization."

Long tail

But even average revenues provide only a partial picture. There is a top concentration in toll usage. In 2022-23, just 16 toll plazas accounted for over 10% of revenues. Four of these toll plazas were in Gujarat and three in Rajasthan. The L&T Vadodara plaza in Gujarat and the Shahjahanpur toll plaza in Rajasthan alone accounted for almost 2% of total highway toll revenues in 2022-23. Together, the top 100 toll plazas in 2022-23 accounted for close to 40% of national highway revenue.

Such variations are reflected at the state level as well. According to a parliamentary question, the top four states accounted for over 40% of total toll revenue in 2022-23. They are Uttar Pradesh ( 5,583 crore, or a revenue share of 12%), Rajasthan ( 5,084 crore, 11%), Maharashtra ( 4,660 crore, 10%) and Gujarat ( 4,519 crore, 9%).

Future monetization

The average revenue per plaza (using 2022-23 revenues but the latest number of plazas) was 50 crore for Uttar Pradesh, 40 crore for Rajasthan, 62 crore for Maharashtra, and 86 crore for Gujarat. Under the NMP for roads, a total of 1.6 trillion is projected to be realized, with the bulk of it being monetized in 2023-24 and 2024-2516,224 km of highway network, to the tune of 97,000 crore.

As per the NITI Aayog document, the key stretches to be monetized are spread across all four regions. Its led by the west (2,031 km, 25 stretches), and followed by the south region (1,931 km, 28 stretches), east (1,478 km, 22 stretches) and north (1,361 km, 29 stretches). While it will add to the governments coffers, it will lighten the users pockets.

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In case you fancy free access to domestic and international airport lounges or steep discount at restaurants, you can  among other things  apply for a banks credit card . They will also offer a number of other benefits such as cash backs and discount on fuel.

It is, however, vital to know that only a few credit cards give unlimited access to airport lounges to the cardholders. The other credit cards give limited access (between 8 and 12 visits) in one calendar year.

Some popular credit cards offered by top banks:

HDFC Bank: Diners Club Black Metal Edition Credit Card by HDFC Bank offers unlimited airport lounge access along with six complimentary gold games every quarter across the finest courses in the world. It also offers annual memberships of Club Marriott, Amazon Prime and Swiggy One.

SBI Card: SBI Card Prime offers eight complimentary visits per calendar year to domestic lounges in India and four complimentary visits per calendar year to international priority pass lounges. The card also enables you to get voucher worth 1,000 on achieving spends of 50,000 in a quarter.

ALSO READ: New airport lounges are designed to fight jet lag

ICICI Bank: ICICI Bank credit card holders can avail complimentary airport lounge access per quarter on their ICICI Bank credit cards by spending 5,000 in a calendar quarter to enjoy this benefit in their next quarter.

This limit does not apply to ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card which provides unlimited domestic and international lounge access.

ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card offers one complimentary domestic airport lounge access each quarter, thus suiting occasional flyers whereas Rubyx Credit Card offers two complimentary domestic airport lounge accesses each quarter.

Kotak Mahindra: Kotak Mahindra Banks Mojo Platinum Credit Card offers eight complimentary airport lounge visits per year. This means they get two visits per quarter within India.

This private lenders Royale Signature Credit Card offers two complimentary visits to airport lounges with comfortable seats in India in a calendar year.

Yes Bank: Yes Banks private credit card offers unlimited access for both the primary and add-on cardmember with twelve complimentary guest visits in a calendar year.

This facility will be given in select airport lounges affiliated with MasterCard Lounge programme. Beyond 12 visits, cardholder will be charged as per the prevailing rate at the respective lounge.

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Congress' Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was attacked by BJP workers as it passed through Assam on Sunday, the party alleged. The party said that it will be holding demonstrations across state and district headquarters over what it said were "planned attacks" on the convoys of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam.

Here are 10 points to know: 1. Taking to X, Congress general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal alleged that since the yatra's entry in Assam, the most corrupt CM in India has been carrying out relentless attacks on our convoys, properties and leaders using his goons."

2. Venugopal further added, This is a matter that every Indian must take seriously, because it exposes the BJP's fascism and hooliganism. All across India, PCCs and DCCs are instructed to hold large scale protests tomorrow evening and exposing how the Modi-led BJP is killing democracy in Assam through their corrupt CM." "Our fight for justice - social, economic and political - will continue undeterred!" he said.

3. In the letter to all Pradesh Congress Committee chiefs, state in-charges, AICC secretaries, heads of frontal organisations, departments and cells, Venugopal said the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi, which commenced in Manipur on January 14th, has successfully journeyed through Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and now entered Assam.

4. A deliberately assembled crowd of BJP workers "attacked" the convoy led by Rahul Gandhi, resulting in injuries to several party leaders, including the Assam PCC President, Venugopal had alleged. This evening, there was a fresh attack on the Nyay Yatra by the "goons" supported by the BJP, he said.

5. Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah was allegedly assaulted while general secretary Jairam Ramesh's car was targeted in Assam's Sonitpur district during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Sunday.

6. The party demanded a judicial inquiry into the attack on Borah, alleging involvement of a BJP MLA and his supporters.

7. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was also mobbed at a roadside eatery in Assam's Nagaon district on Sunday evening.

8. The crowd raised slogans against the Wayanad MP and also displayed placards with messages such as 'Anyay Yatra' and 'Rakibul go back', referring to Samaguri Congress MLA Rakibul Hussain.

9. 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.

10. AICC communications coordinator Mahima Singh had 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.

(With inputs from agencies)

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SPLANG, part of Collectivite Territoriale de Guyane (CTG), has signed a deal to connect French Guiana to the EllaLink transatlantic subsea cable connecting Portugal and Brazil.

According to a statement from EllaLink, SPLANG has contracted Alcatel Submarine Networks to build a new 2,100-km subsea branch that will give EllaLink a new landing point in Cayenne, French Guiana. EllaLink didnt give a timeline for the projects completion.

The new link will include two fibre pairs and use a ROADM WSS branching unit that allows direct connectivity from French Guiana to continental Europe without regeneration, and with an RTD latency of less than 80ms. The new branch will also enable direct connections from French Guiana to Fortaleza, Brazil.

The project is receiving funds under the EUs Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) programme, as French Guiana is the home of key EU space programmes, including Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES) and the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, which hosts the launch pads for Arianespace.

Vincent Gatineau, SVP of subsea infra development at EllaLink, said the new branch positions French Guiana as a new telecoms hub, attracting data flows from the West Indies and the sub-region. EllaLink also plans to use the new link to stimulate the development of new infrastructure, including connections to the underserved Amazonian region of Brazil, he said.

This initiative will not only reinforce the French Guiana infrastructure resilience but also generate a change of paradigm for the whole Caribbean region's connectivity pattern, Gatineau said.

SPLANG president Marie-Lucienne Rattier said the project would serve the French Guiana population in accelerating digital development of the territory.

The EllaLink branch will be the first subsea link to extend French Guianas international connectivity outside of the Latin America and Caribbean regions. It currently has two live subsea cable connections: Kanawa, which connects French Guiana and Martinique, and Americas II, which runs between Brazil and Florida. A third subsea cable, Digicels Deep Blue One, which links French Guiana and Trinidad and Tobago, is scheduled to be ready for service sometime this year.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported dense fog and cold conditions in northern India, leading to flight disruptions in Delhi.

Delhi endured another chilly day, marked by a drop in temperatures and widespread dense fog and cold conditions in northern India disrupted flights in New Delhi. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature reached 4.8C on Sunday, with the maximum temperature plummeting to 15.8C. According to the IMD, dense to very dense fog and cold to severe cold day conditions are expected to persist over North India for the next four to five days. The department indicated the prevalence of cold wave to severe cold wave conditions in a majority of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, and North Madhya Pradesh. Also Read: Weather Update: Dense fog, cold wave to continue for next 5 days; flight delays at IGI airport | Check IMD forecast here People gather around a bonfire to ward off the chill as the cold wave persists in Delhi. Furthermore, on Sunday evening, the met department reported moderate fog in Haryana, Sub-Himalayan regions, West Bengal, and Sikkim. Additionally, shallow fog was observed in isolated areas of Punjab, Jammu Division, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam. "Today, Cold day to severe cold day conditions prevailed in most parts of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh; in many parts of Bihar; in some parts of Delhi and Rajasthan. Severe cold day conditions prevailed in most parts of Haryana & Chandigarh," said the IMD in a post on X.

The IMD classifies visibility levels based on fog density, categorizing 'very dense' fog when visibility ranges from 0 to 50 meters, 'dense' between 51 and 200 meters, 'moderate' from 201 to 500 meters, and 'shallow' from 501 to 1,000 meters.

As of 5:30 pm on Sunday, the reported visibility at Delhi's Palam airport stood at 1600 meters, while Safdarjung airport recorded a visibility of 1000 meters.

Also Read: Cold wave to abate from 25 January; Flight delays at Delhi continue due to dense fog: IMD full forecast here

Meanwhile, Delhi is experiencing a frigid day with icy cool winds, leading to a significant drop in temperatures. The city was shrouded in dense fog, severely restricting visibility and causing disruptions to both flights and train services once again.

In January, Delhi registered cold days on the 4th (with a maximum temperature of 12.5C), the 5th (14.6C), the 9th (13.4C), and the 19th (14.2C).

(With inputs from agencies)

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India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)the four-nation trading block comprising Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerlandare close to signing a trade agreement after both sides have reached an understanding on key issues, news agency PTI reported citing a senior official on Monday.

"Following extensive negotiations, a shared understanding has been achieved on key issues during the ministerial meeting. Ongoing efforts are now focused on shaping the convergence that has emerged," the news agency quoted the official as saying Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held a meeting recently with Swiss Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin in Mumbai. Also Read | History unfolds as PM inaugurates Ayodhya Ram Mandir: All that happened today Parmelin, in a social media post on X (formerly known as Twitter), has said that officials are working around the clock to settle last details so that it can be signed as soon as possible. "At the last-minute invitation of my Indian counterpart @PiyushGoyal, I travelled directly from the WEF in Davos to Mumbai/India. After 16 years of negotiations, we found balanced solutions to the main open issues of the EFTA-India trade agreement," Parmelin has said.

The last round of talks between the countries concluded on January 13 in India. It is important to note that both sides have been negotiating the trade deal, officially dubbed as Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), since January 2008 to boost economic ties.

Negotiations are held on various chapters, including trade in goods, rules of origin, intellectual property rights (IPRs), trade in services, investment promotion and cooperation, trade and sustainable development, and trade facilitation.

EFTA has 29 free trade agreements (FTAs) with 40 partner countries, including Canada, Chile, China, Mexico, and Korea.

Under free trade pacts, two trading partners significantly reduce or eliminate customs duties on the maximum number of goods traded between them, besides easing norms to promote trade in services and investments.

EFTA countries are not part of the European Union (EU). It is an inter-governmental organisation for the promotion and intensification of free trade.

India's exports to the trading block during 2022-23 stood at $1.92 billion against $1.74 billion in 2021-22. Imports aggregated at $16.74 billion during the last fiscal compared to $25.5 billion in 2021-22.

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday jumped out of his vehicle to greet BJP and Modi supporters in Assam during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The grand old party posted a video of the crowd chanting Modi-Modi, and Jai Shree Ram with saffron flags on its official handle X (formerly Twitter).

In the visuals, Rahul Gandhi was seen blowing flying kisses at his rivals' supporters and asking the driver Why dont you stop here'. The driver immediately stopped the vehicle and Rahul Gandhi stepped down to greet them. Mohabbat ki dukaan is open for everyone, India will unite, and India will win," the Congress party wrote on the microblogging site while sharing the video.

The Assam leg of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra began on January 18 and will continue till January 25, covering 17 districts of the northeast state.

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi was also mobbed at a roadside eatery in Assam's Nagaon district on Sunday evening. The incident took place when Gandhi and some other leaders stopped at the restaurant in Ambagan on their way to their night halt in Rupohi, about 10 km from the site.

The crowd raised slogans against the MP and also displayed placards with messages such as 'Anyay Yatra' and 'Rakibul go back', referring to Samaguri Congress MLA Rakibul Hussain.

Gandhi and other leaders were escorted out of the eatery by security personnel.

There was another incident of attack on vehicles of party workers returning from the rally, an eyewitness said, adding three members of the students' wing were admitted to hospital with serious injuries.

Earlier in the day, state Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah was assaulted and senior central leader Jairam Ramesh's car was attacked in two separate incidents in Sonitpur district, through which the Yatra entered Nagaon.

The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, being led by Gandhi, reached the central Assam district earlier in the day. The leaders addressed a public rally in Kaliabor in the afternoon, in which Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge was also present.

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Pran Pratishtha: The consecration ceremony of Ram Temple is scheduled to start at 12:20 pm by PM Modi on January 22 in Ayodhya. With over $10 billion in investments made in new airports, revamped railway stations, townships, and improved roads, the city is expected to attract around 50 million to 10 million footfall every year, according to a report by Jefferies. Ram Mandir, Ayodhya, is seen as India's answer to the Vatican City and Mecca.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony LIVE Updates: Ayodhya set to welcome Lord Ram, PM Modi to attend consecration ceremony

Religious tourism is a cornerstone of India's tourism sector, projected to reach $443 billion by FY33 with an 8 per cent CAGR. Ayodhya's Ram temple is built at an estimated cost of USD 225 million, with the cost being funded through contributions and donations. The city is expected to see a jump in pilgrims to around 100-150k per day.

Also Read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration Highlights: Delhi govt declares holiday for schools running in general, morning shift

How is Ayodhya prepared?

Ayodhya has witnessed a surge in hotel construction and development. Currently, the city has approximately 17 hotels with around 590 rooms. To meet the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals, 73 new hotels are in the pipeline, with 40 of them already under construction, as per the report.

Several renowned hotel chains and hospitality companies, including IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited), Marriott International, Wyndham, and OYO Rooms, are planning on creating more hotels in Ayodhya.

The hospitality projects are expected to add significant room capacity to accommodate the growing number of tourists and pilgrims visiting Ayodhya.

Ayodhya's Phase I of the new airport is operational, becoming a milestone in facilitating air travel to and from the city.

The airport's Phase I, built at a cost of approximately approximately $175 million, has an annual handling capacity of 1 million passengers, the report added. Meanwhile, Ayodhya's international terminal is expected to be operational by 2025. Once operational, Phase II of the airport is expected to handle around 6 million passengers annually.

However, tourism in India has a lot to catch up. Tourism's contribution to India's GDP is around 6.8 per cent. India is positioned below most of the emerging and developed economies, the report further added.

In the broader context, India's Union Budget of 2023-24 allocated 2400 crore to the tourism sector. The central government started initiatives, including, the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, PRASHAD Scheme, and Adarsh Smarak Scheme are actively promoting integrated development, pilgrimage sites, and monument revitalization, became the additional driver.

Rise of Medical Tourism in India

Medical tourism in India is on the rise, the report added. Leading hospitals and healthcare facilities, such as Apollo Hospitals, Max Healthcare, Fortis Healthcare, and Medanta, are expected to benefit from the influx of international patients seeking specialized medical treatments, according to the report.

Additionally, the Government's initiatives like Heal in India" and the allowance of 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the wellness and medical tourism segment have further supported the growth of medical tourism.

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After the consecration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Ram Janmabhoomi temple will open to the public for darshan from Tuesday.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol was presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22. All the VIP guests invited to attend the ceremony will offer prayers to Ram Lalla on Monday. However, the temple will be open to the public from Tuesday, January 23.

"The darshan of Ram Lalla will begin tomorrow," said Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest, Acharya Satyendra Das after Pran Pratishtha.

The temple town was gripped in religious fervour after the completion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla on Monday in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, and other dignitaries.

The 51-inch-tall idol of Ram Lalla was crafted by sculptor Arun Yogiraj from Mysuru. The grand event saw the presence of around 7,000 VVIPS from across the nation and of different professions. From famous actors to top industrialists to sportspersons, a lot of people attended the Ram Temple consecration ceremony.

The Ram Temple is constructed in the conventional Nagara architectural style, and spans around 380 feet in the east-west direction, with a width of 250 feet and an impressive height of 161 feet.

To perform the rituals at the Ram Janmbhoomi temple, PM Modi followed a strict 11-day anushthan and slept on the floor and had coconut water before the ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. He also visited several temples across India ahead of the ceremony.

After performing the ritual, PM Modi addressed the gathering at the temple and congratulated people on the inauguration. He also encouraged people to lay the foundation of India for the next 1,000 years." After the address, he offered prayers at Kuber Tila Shiva temple and unveiled the Jatayu statue. The ancient Shiv temple located on the Kuber Tila in the Ram Janmabhoomi complex is also being renovated by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which is constructing the Ram temple. Afterwards, he unveiled the Jatayu statue at the temple.

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MANCHESTER (NEW HAMPSHIRE) : As the last major challenger in Donald Trump's way, Nikki Haley is hoping New Hampshire voters feel so strongly about keeping the former president away from the White House that they turn out to support her in large numbers.

America does not do coronations," Haley said at a VFW hall in Franklin, joined by her daughter and son-in-law. Lets show all of the media class and the political class that weve got a different plan in mind, and lets show the country what we can do."

It's an uphill battle for the former UN ambassador and South Carolina governor. Most conservatives want to give Trump another chance at beating President Joe Biden despite Trumps 2020 election loss and the 91 felony charges he faces in four separate indictments.

With voting about to begin in New Hampshire, almost every top Republican has lined up behind Trump, and polls in New Hampshire suggest he leads Haley in a state uniquely suited to her strengths.

Also Read | When will Ayodhya Ram Mandir open to public? All you need to know

Trump planned to hold his last rally before the election Monday night. He started the day in New York for his defamation trial after an earlier jury determined he had sexually abused a columnist in the 1990s, but the session was cancelled due to a juror's illness.

Trump was being joined on stage Monday night by three of his former opponents who have now endorsed him: South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. The show of force is part of a broader effort by Trumps team to lock up the primary and demonstrate the party is rallying around him.

Also Read | Stone pelting on procession in Thane district hours after group clash

On paper, Trump had seemed more vulnerable in New Hampshire than in any other early voting state on the primary calendar. Though voters here supported him by a wide margin in 2016, the state has long been known for its moderate tradition, including allowing unaffiliated voters to participate in GOP primaries. And Haley had been on the rise, prompting Trumps campaign and its allies to spend millions trying to blunt her momentum.

Thalia Flores, a former Democrat who manages retail stores, changed her voter registration to undeclared last fall and plans to vote in New Hampshires Republican presidential primary against Trump. She says she would support Haley over President Joe Biden if given the chance, even though she has never before voted for a Republican presidential candidate.

Also Read | Are ultra premium credit cards worth their hefty annual fees?

But on the eve of the contest, she worries the primary is "a long shot" with not enough support for Haley among traditional conservatives to beat Trump.

What do the Republicans want?" Flores asked at a packed Haley rally over the weekend. Are they diehard Trump or do they want the White House?"

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis exit turned the state into the one-on-one contest between Trump and Haley that she and a long line of anti-Trump Republicans had said they wanted.

But some evidence suggests Trump could be better positioned to capitalize on DeSantis exit than Haley. According to AP VoteCast, DeSantis supporters in Iowa overwhelmingly described themselves as conservative and Trump outperformed Haley 53% to 13% among that group.

DeSantis immediately endorsed Trump upon dropping out, saying it was clear to him Republican voters preferred the former president.

By Monday, Montana Sen. Steve Daines, who heads the GOP's Senate campaign committee, called him the presumptive nominee."

Never before has a presidential candidate won primary contests in both Iowa and New Hampshire and failed to secure the partys presidential nomination.

Basically after New Hampshire, its an academic exercise," said Chris LaCivita, Trump's senior adviser. "This is really where it matters."

Trump's confidence comes even as respected Republicans like New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu warn of dire political consequences.

Republicans are tired of losing. Were tired of losers. Were tired of Donald Trump," Sununu told roughly 500 Haley supporters gathered in the state's largest city over the weekend.

On Monday, Haley spoke on New Hampshire Today with host Chris Ryan and compared Trump to Biden, bringing up how Trump has confused her with former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, mistakenly said he ran against former President Barack Obama, and warned about Biden leading the country into World War II, which was fought between 1939 and 1945.

When you have two 80-year-olds running for president, you are going to see decline," she said. Its natural. Its what happens."

At the same time, Haleys campaign has been lowering expectations for New Hampshire after insisting for weeks that an outright victory against Trump was possible.

Beating Donald Trump is not easy. He is a juggernaut," Haley campaign manager Betsy Ankney said at a weekend event hosted by Bloomberg. But how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. We have to continue to show incremental growth and progress. We are the last man - woman - standing against him."

Still, the tens of thousands of voters who have packed into Trump's New Hampshire rallies in recent days don't seem to be worried and he makes little effort to lower expectations.

Eric Holmstrom, a 43-year-old Republican from Goffstown who supports Trump, said he sees the former presidents back-and-forth travel from the courtroom to campaign events as a sign of why hes the best person to be the partys nominee.

I mean, this guys stamina is unmatched. And thats  we need strength," Holmstrom said. We need unity. We need strength. And we need stamina. And right now, the unity isnt there but its happening."

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October 7 attacks in southern Israel were a necessary step against Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories, said the Islamist group Hamas while admitting in a 16-page report that some faults happened due to the rapid collapse of the Israeli security and its military system".

The attack resulted in over 1,140 deaths, mostly civilians. Around 700 Israeli civilians and 76 foreigners were among the dead, with one Israeli still missing, according to a report published by AFP.

During the attack, the gunmen seized around 250 hostages, as per the latest Israeli figures. Around 132 captives remain in Gaza, of whom at least 27 are believed to have been killed, the officials said.

Israel retaliated by declaring war to destroy Hamas and deployed tens of thousands of troops along the Gaza frontier and on the northern border with Lebanon. The counterattack killed at least 25,105 people in Gaza, mostly women, children, and adolescents.

If there was any case of targeting civilians it happened accidently and in the course of the confrontation with the occupation forces. Many Israelis were killed by the Israeli army and police due to their confusion," the report read.

"We stress that the Palestinian people can decide their future and to arrange their internal affairs. No party in the world" had the right to decide on their behalf," it added as quoted by AFP.

Notably, this was the group's first public report, published in Arabic and English, that provided background information on the attack that occurred when the militants crossed Gaza's border.

Israeli military forces desecrate 16 Gaza cemeteries

The Israeli military, in its ground offensive in Gaza, has reportedly damaged at least 16 cemeteries, destroying gravestones, overturning soil, and, in some instances, exposing buried bodies.

One incident in Khan Younis involved the destruction of a cemetery. However, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told CNN that this destruction was part of an effort to search for the remains of hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7 terror attacks.

The IDF stated that one of its key missions in Gaza is to rescue hostages and retrieve their bodies, which justifies the removal of bodies from certain gravesites.

The hostage identification process, conducted at a secure and alternative location, ensures optimal professional conditions and respect for the deceased," an IDF spokesperson told CNN, adding that bodies determined not to be those of hostages are returned with dignity and respect."

It is to be further noted that deliberate damage to religious sites, including cemeteries, is generally considered a violation of international law unless specific circumstances justify such actions for military reasons.

(With AFP inputs)

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Storm Isha is causing travel disruptions in the UK and Ireland, with airlines cancelling flights and rail operators halting services. The Met Office has issued a blanket wind warning for the UK, with gusts reaching 90mph and the potential for danger to life.

The Met Office issued an unusual blanket wind warning for all of the UK, saying gusts could reach 90 miles per hour (145 kilometers per hour) in places and threaten lives.

There's the potential for danger-to-life and damaging winds potentially leading to some power cuts in places, some large waves around coastal regions could bring some debris onto roads and trees could come down," meteorologist Tom Morgan said, AP reported.

Parts of the UK have been hammered since fall by a series of gusty and wet storms that have toppled trees, knocked out power, and led to flooding along river valleys. Isha is the ninth named storm since September.

Storm Isha: Over 100 flights cancelled at Dublin airport

Airlines cancelled 102 flights in and out of Dublin airport on Sunday due to a storm that was forecast to rage for the rest of the day, the airport operator said.

Storm Isha had also forced 24 aborted landings by 1700 GMT, while 27 flights opted to divert to other airports, Dublin Airport said in a post on social media platform X.

View Full Image Strong wind blows as heavy rains from storm Isha hit Athboy, County Meath, Ireland. (Hannah Halton via REUTERS)

Dublin Airport advisory to passengers

Dublin Airport said in a post on social media platform X: Our advice to passengers flying out of @DublinAirport on Monday remains to arrive at their terminal two hours before a short-haul flight and three hours before a long-haul flight."

Passengers seeking to re-book cancelled flights are encouraged to do this online to avoid unnecessary queuing at airline desks in the terminals at @DublinAirport which will be extra busy," tweeted Dublin Airport.
Bryn Spejcher, 32, of Thousands Oaks, Calif., was convicted last month of killing her boyfriend in May 2018. According to prosecutors, she stabbed Chad OMelia 108 times with a kitchen knife. She also stabbed herself and her dog. When police showed up, she was screaming hysterically.

Ms. Spejcher, an audiologist at UCLA Health, had no history of mental illness. Yet after psychologists diagnosed her with cannabis-induced psychosis," prosecutors downgraded charges from murder to involuntary manslaughter.

Healthcare practitioners report increasing numbers of young people with psychotic reactions from marijuana. Such breaks are more likely with chronic use, though one scientific review found nearly 1 in 5 users reported hallucinations or visions, and more than half experienced paranoia, after using the drug.

Yet the Health and Human Services Department brushes past marijuanas potential for inducing psychosis in its review, published Jan. 12, that supported moving marijuana from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act to the less restrictive Schedule III. If you needed more evidence that Biden administration health officials dont follow the science, here it is.

Schedule I drugs are those with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Examples include heroin, ecstasy and peyote. Schedule III drugs have a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. They include Tylenol with codeine, testosterone and other anabolic steroids.

HHS concludes that the risks to the public health posed by marijuana are lower compared to other drugs of abuse" based on data of hospitalizations, emergency-room visits and overdose deaths. Its true, smoking weed is unlikely to cause sudden death. But its effects over time may be more insidious and damaging to public health and society than those of other drugs.

An article last month in the New England Journal of Medicine, Cannabis-Related Disorders and Toxic Effect," details the myriad risks of marijuana use, including mental illness and cognitive difficulties. As more states have legalized marijuana, more young people are using the drug and more frequently experiencing such problems.

The pot lobby says cannabis is no more dangerous than alcohol. But THCthe psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that provides the euphoric highbinds to receptors in the brain, heart, lungs and immune system. These receptors are located in neural regions involved in memory, motor coordination, decision-making and self-control.

Marijuana temporarily impairs judgment and memory in occasional users, and chronic consumption is associated with long-term cognitive problems as well as depression, anxiety and psychosis. The drug stupefies. Studies have also linked frequent cannabis use with increased risk of heart failure, heart attack and stroke.

Too much alcohol is also bad for the heart. But pot appears more likely to cause psychological and physical dependency, judging by how many young people use it regularly.

Between 0.8% and 2% of Americans 18 to 22 reported using alcohol daily, compared with 6.3% to 11.3% for marijuana, according to the University of Michigans 2022 Monitoring the Future survey. Similarly, 11.3% of 19- to 30-year-olds reported using marijuana daily, compared with 4.6% for alcohol. Even more 35-year-olds consume pot every day (8.4%) than alcohol (7.5%).

The risk of cannabis-use disorder has increased over time as marijuana has become more potent. Marijuana today has four times as much THC as during the 1990s, and some products are now more than 20 times as potent. This is one reason emergency-room doctors report seeing increasing numbers of patients with uncontrolled vomiting and other symptoms of cannabis poisoning.

More toddlers are also accidentally ingesting cannabis in edible form. We see children coming in with seizures and not breathing," a pediatrician at Rady Childrens Hospital told the San Diego Union-Tribune last year. They have altered mental status; they wont wake up." Cannabis-involved ER visits among children roughly quadrupled between early 2019 and 2022.

Increasing numbers of pregnant women use pot, unaware that THCs crossing the placenta is harmful to fetal development. A 2019 study found THC in 22.4% of tested umbilical cords. Numerous studies have found pot use to be more common during pregnancy among blacks than whites, which is likely to exacerbate racial disparities.

Maternal marijuana use sets children up for failure before they are born. Cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with lower birth weight, developmental delays, learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and emotional problems. The heads of babies born to mothers who used weed are significantly smaller, and children with very low birth weights have lower IQs. While causation hasnt been proved, the copious research documenting these connections raises alarmsor they should.

Yet the Biden HHS report promotes the mistaken perception that pot isnt all that dangerous, no doubt because the drug is popular among young liberals. So much for advancing science" and equity." Pot destroys lives, and its criminal to suggest otherwise.
Many professors at my alma mater, the University of Rochester, were legends in the field of financial economics for a variety of reasons. The main reason was that the university was very well-endowed during the heyday of companies such as Eastman Kodak Company, Bausch & Lomb and Xerox Corp, which were all headquartered in Rochesterand thrivingwhen I studied there in the late 1980s. For decades, they contributed heavily to the funding of the university and its research projects. When the decline of these firms began in the mid-1990s, the university lost an important source of funding for several years, before finding a new source in the fact that it owned patents that are vital for both human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines available in the market. HPV vaccines are used to protect women against cervical cancer, and are becoming de rigueur. Since HPV can also cause throat and anal cancers, its advisable to administer it not only to teenage girls (by the recommended protocol), but also boys.

While some of my professors moved to greener pastures during the universitys leaner years to well-endowed named chair professorships at other schools, many stayed on despite Rochesters bitingly cold winters. Clifford Smith, a singularly gifted teacher, is well known for his seminal research on the trading costs for listed options. Ross Watts gained fame for his ability to predict changes in accounting standards long before they occurred. His collaborator, Jerold Zimmerman, worked with Watts to form an entire body of study called the positive theories of accounting, which sought to understand the costs and benefits of various accounting procedures. Ray Ball was among the first to identify anomalies in the efficient capital-markets theory, which had first been propounded by his doctoral supervisor, the Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama.

But the two who were more most impactful in the area of practical applications of finance were William Meckling and Michael Jensen. They gave the world a seminal paper called Theory of the firm, managerial behaviour, agency costs, and ownership structure (bit.ly/4901fWX), which clearly showed that there were agency costs involved in the running of a firm (or any large enterprise), and that managers, being agents, were unlikely to run enterprises in the best interest of its principals (i.e. share-holders), since they had agendas of their own. The solution that these two worthies gave the world was the use of stock options in managerial compensation as a way to align the interests of managers with stockholders. Managers were therefore incentivized to make decisions in the best interest of owners, since their own wealth was now influenced by the firms stock price. The use of options in managerial compensation became common in the 1990s, when acceptance of Jensen and Mecklings work was at its zenith. Today, stock options are a regular part of most corporate and startup pay packages.

We dont have these schema in the world of government and politics, however. Agency theory suggests that while agents have a legal and fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the principal (whether a stockholder or a voter), the separation of stockholders or the electorate from managers or policymakers creates conditions that can lead these agents to act in their own interest and not always in that of their principals. This is a fundamental problem that exists in any country, especially those that are democratically driven, and it directly impacts our lives today in a technology driven society. I shall explain why.

An example of the agency issue is the horizon problem. A firm always has owners (who would prefer decisions made both in the short- and long-term interests of the company), just as a citizen would prefer policies made for now and also the future. But managers and policymakers prefer short-term actions, since these tend to showcase their managerial or populist policy skills. Why is this a problem? Well, if a manager were to switch companies, or a politician were to be pushed out of office by the next election, s/he doesnt stay around long enough to suffer the impact of short-termism. In all cases, agents favour the demonstration of their short-term skills, which may well impair the firm or state/countrys long-term interests.

This horizon problem is what causes governments the world over (except non-democracies like China) to be lackadaisical in the regulation of technology and aggressive in their regulation of finance. Given one-party rule in China, the Chinese leadership isnt anxious about its electoral performance. This is in stark contrast with countries in the democratic world, where leaders face elections every four or five years. China built its Great Internet Wall, which over a 15-year span has helped home-grown Chinese companies like WeChat not only monopolize domestic markets, but also become world leadersas in the case of TikTok.

Every other government has been too late to address the excesses of Big-Tech firms, which could now be seen as the digital eras equivalent of Industrial Age robber barons, as they were called. Whatever little we see in terms of active regulation of these firms comes mainly from the EU, which as an entity outlives the governments of its member states. Until we come up with a way for politicians to think longer-term about tech issues, all we will have are band-aid solutions put together too late by governments the world over.
Direct-to-phone satellite operator Lynk Global announced on Friday that Papua New Guinea state telco Telikom Limited has started offering Lynks Sat2Phone service to subscribers.

The initial Sat2Phone service in Papua New Guinea will be limited to SMS, as Lynk currently has just three LEOsats in orbit to support the service, out of a planned constellation of 5,000. Lynk says Telikom will be able to expand service to include voice and broadband once enough LEOsats are deployed.

The initial service, starting in Hela Province, will extend in 2024 and beyond, allowing Telikom to better serve new and existing subscribers, said Telikom CEO Amos Tepi in a statement. Lynks network deployment will enable continuous mobile coverage, surpassing the limitations of traditional terrestrial mobile towers.

Lynk says its signed commercial agreements with 36 MNOs around the world, the most recent being in November 2023 with Telikom-owned operator bmobile in the Solomon Islands. Last year, Lynk also launched initial services in Ghana, Palau and Cook Islands.

Lynk has two more satellites scheduled for launch in the first quarter of this year via SpaceX. The company currently aims to have enough satellites for global coverage in 2025.
The polls show Americans want to move on from President Biden, and Republicans have a choice to make about the alternative to offer voters in November. Will it be the prospect of a second Donald Trump term, with its inevitable turmoil and polarization, or will the GOP look forward to forge a new conservative governing coalition?

Thats the essence of the choice facing Republicans as New Hampshire holds its primary on Tuesday. The Trump campaign, the press and the Biden Democrats say the race is over. Mr. Biden wants Mr. Trump as the nominee because he believes Mr. Trump is the easiest to beat. But before the die is cast, its worth thinking about the risks GOP voters would be taking, both in November and in a second term if by some chance Mr. Trump defeated Mr. Biden.

***

The election risks are sitting in plain sight. Mr. Trump faces 91 felony charges in four different indictments. You can think the indictments are politically motivated and an awful precedent, as these columns have argued. But they exist, and amid the legal battling a jury could convict Mr. Trump by the summer.

Then what? Mr. Trump would never withdraw. But no fewer than 31% of Iowa caucus voters said in the entrance poll that a conviction would make Mr. Trump unfit for the White House. That would mean Mr. Trump cant win. GOP voters would have played into Democratic and media hands.

If Mr. Trump does somehow win, Democrats predict a second Trump term will end in dictatorship. But that undersells the resilience of American institutions, which have held up so far against the stress test of Mr. Trump and his enemies, including the riot of Jan. 6, 2021. Congress responded quickly and ratified the Electoral College votes. The plotters were a rump group opposed across the government. There was nothing close to a coup detat.

The better question in our view is whether Mr. Trump can deliver the policy and political victories that GOP voters want. There are many reasons to think he cant.

Start with the fact that Mr. Trump would be an immediate lame duck. He cant serve more than one more term, and if he does win it will be narrowly with little political capital. He has never reached an approval rating above 50%, and his rolling seven-week RealClearPolitics average favorability is 41.5%. If theres a strong third-party ticket, he might win with the smallest plurality since 1912. Mr. Trump would lack the most potent presidential powerthe ability to persuade.

Republicans are favored to win a Senate majority, albeit narrowly. But the House is up for grabs and could easily go Democratic. If the first term is a guide, Democrats will oppose anything Mr. Trump proposes that isnt one of their priorities. Mr. Trump could use executive power to repeal Mr. Bidens regulations and appoint judges. He could approve drilling for domestic energy in particular. But if Democrats control either house of Congress, conservative legislative priorities would be dead on arrival.

Trump supporters say his first term was successful until the midterms and Covid, and it was on the economy, deregulation and judges. But tax reform was teed up for him by years of spade work in the House GOP. The Federalist Society gave him a list of judges to nominate and Mitch McConnell moved them through the Senate. A GOP Senate could still confirm judges, but the current Republican House cant pass a budget, much less come up with a governing agenda for 2025.

One reason is the intellectual confusion of the Trump-era GOP. Theres nothing like the unified agenda that Ronald Reagan carried into office after 1980, or even Mr. Trump after 2016. Republicans favor lower taxes, but Mr. Trump wants to raise the price of every import with a 10% border tax. They want to reduce the national debt but he wont touch entitlements. They favor peace through strength" but wont seriously increase defense spending. The MAGA GOP has no desire to limit government but wants to use it for its own political purposes.

Mr. Trump says he now knows from hard experience how to manage the executive branch, but his governing style is undisciplined to say the least. The internal opposition will still be implacable, the leaks unending, the press relentlessly hostile. This is another reason the Trump-as-Hitler fears are implausible.

It also isnt clear Mr. Trump could attract first-rate advisers. The lure of power is strong, but anyone who takes a job had better have a lawyer on retainer. No conservative who wants a career in the law is likely to accept a job in the White House or Justicenot after what Mr. Trump asked his lawyers to do after the 2020 election.

Looking ahead, a second Trump term would surely mean a Republican wipeout in the 2026 midterms. The Senate map that year tilts strongly Democratic. There would be no more Supreme Court confirmations. If the GOP takes another MAGA turn in 2028, the stage would be set for Democrats to run the election table, break the Senate filibuster, and pack the Court.

***

The failing Biden Presidency obscures all of this for millions of GOP voters, who see a Trump victory as a return to better, pre-Covid times. This misses that Mr. Bidens failure presents the GOP with an historic opportunity. The President hasnt fulfilled his promise of a return to normalcy and instead has delivered more polarization. Bidenomics hasnt lifted real incomes, while the world is more dangerous than at any time since the 1930s.

But a Trump victory will bring no return to normalcy, nor the unity" he sometimes mentions before he denounces some other former ally. A different GOP nominee would shake up political categories, win independents, and offer a better chance at a conservative restoration.

If Republicans nominate Mr. Trump again, thats democracythe worst system except for all the others. But our unhappy guess is that, sooner or later, the choice will end in tears for his voters.
The notion of a triple planetary crisis encompassing climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss has become outdated in the face of complexities captured by the relatively new term polycrisis. This modern challenge involves the intertwining of climate change, environmental disruptions, widening social inequalities, pandemic effects and geopolitical polarization. In the context of Indias ambitious pursuit of rapid economic growth amid multiple crises, addressing the climate-development nexus is imperative. The impact of climate change and the depletion of resources holds profound implications for the countrys growth trajectory, particularly with a burgeoning population and its escalating demands. Amid these considerations, preserving limited natural resources, especially precious water resources, is a critical priority.

At the recently concluded CoP-28 summit held in Dubai under the aegis of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, countries agreed on the need to drive water up the climate agenda," focusing on freshwater ecosystems, urban water resilience and water-resilient food systems.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, data from the World Bank underscores the fact that water scarcity could depress growth in gross domestic product (GDP) by 6-14% across significant regions in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. This shows the link between climate solutions, development initiatives and water-related challenges. For India, integrating water solutions with its climate and development strategies is of paramount importance in navigating the multifaceted challenges posed by the current polycrisis.

India constitutes 18% of the worlds population but has access to only 4% of its water resources. This in itself points to an imbalanced demand-supply structure, which has only grown weaker. In the 1960s, the countrys bountiful groundwater resources were critical in driving the green revolution, making it a self-reliant food producer. Today, the countrys water table is rapidly falling and its aquifers are drying up faster than the rate at which they are being recharged. Declining water tables inevitably lead to a higher cost of pumping and irrigation water turning salty, resulting in over-abstraction and crop-and-revenue losses for farmers, apart from long-term consequences for water availability. Poor water quality and lack of adequate access to sanitation are also significant causes of disease and poor health.

None of this is news anymore for India. In 2019, the central government, with the support of the World Bank, launched Atal Bhujal Yojana, a central scheme worth 6,000 crore that aims to tackle Indias growing groundwater crisis. While this is a significant achievement, it still needs to be improved for the country to achieve water security. India can tap the climate-development nexus by conserving and using its water resources smartly, while proactively addressing climate change. With the countrys Indo-Gangetic plains getting drier, experts predict that by 2025, north-west India will be subject to severe water stress. Highlighting this crisiss economic ramifications, the World Bank projects that certain regions may witness a staggering 11.5% reduction in GDP growth due to water scarcity by 2050.

Additionally, it needs no further elaboration that water insecurity will inevitably impact food and livelihood security across the country. Beyond agriculture, water scarcity will significantly affect Indias quest for sustainable development by having an adverse impact on energy, health and infrastructure. For instance, under the current structure of Indias power sector, water is a critical component, and a growing economy and industrial boom will intensify water management challenges. Tried-and-tested development pathways are not only carbon-intensive but also resource-intensive. India is, therefore, confronted with a significant developmental challenge. How do we overcome this to achieve resilient growth and sustainable prosperity?

The policy ecosystem should adapt to accommodate shifts in the Earths ecosystems. It is time for the country to eliminate perverse subsidies, improve water use efficiency, strengthen water governance and ensure sustainable financing for water infrastructure through appropriate cost recovery. Financing for efficient infrastructure is critical since, currently, large sums are being diverted towards drought relief, both honest and rigged. In 2023 alone, the Centre released 7,532 crore to states affected by heavy rains and associated natural disasters.

Better planning and sustainable use of limited water resources should become integral to climate adaptation at all levels. In 2023, Kerala set an example by being the first state in the country to pass a water budget to analyse its distribution and bridge gaps between demand and supply. While localized planning and community solutions are necessary, more is needed to address issues in the long-term; comprehensive planning is vital at the level of the river basin and possible interconnections between different basins. Top-down planning and bottom-up implementation are the way forward. In the context of policy tools, driving water up the priority order of Indias National Adaptation Plan is critical.

In the backdrop of extreme weather events, depleting natural resources and drying up of fertile land, India is already in the grip of a severe water crisis that could spiral into a social, political and economic crisis over the years. We are perhaps only a short time away from adding water stress to the list of multiple crises facing the world today. We must rise quickly to meet the challenges that worsening water security throws up.
A new study published this week in Science makes a compelling case that people with long covid have a chronic imbalance in their immune response. The findings dont explain why that immune response is out of whack, and needs confirming in larger studies. This is important new piece to the vexing puzzle that is long covid.

One of the challenges with diagnosing and treating long covid is the ways it can manifest: brain fog, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and headaches, to name just a few. A common biomarker across people experiencing such different symptoms could indicate a path towards a diagnostic test. The work could even lead to new treatment strategies.

A sharp focus on tests and treatments for long covid has never been more critical. As we approach the fifth year of living with this viral illness, the virus has issued one of its regular reminders that its not going anywhere: Hospitalizations and deaths in the US have been ticking up since early November, and wastewater data suggest the country is experiencing the biggest peak in cases in more than a year.

Each wave risks adding to the already massive number of people experiencing long-term effects of their infection. The most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data showed that 8.8 million people in the US were living with long covid in 2022. New preliminary data, reported in Medscape, shows that nearly 1,500 people died from long covid last year. Some health experts expect long covid to account for an increasing portion of overall covid deaths.

This latest research is a good step in explaining what might be going wrong in the immune systems of people with lingering symptoms. Scientists at the University of Zurich followed 113 people with covid over the course of a year to understand the differences between those who did and did not develop long covid on a molecular level. Using sophisticated technologies to analyse more than 6,500 proteins in each blood sample, they found a distinct signal: People with long covid had elevated levels of proteins involved in the complement" systema part of our immune response that tags foreign microbes for disposal.

The complement system revs up when we are exposed to a virus or bacteria and relaxes when the threat is eliminated. During the resting state, it plays a key role in sweeping away dead or damaged cells.

But when that part of our immune response is constantly triggered, it can cause inflammation and cell and tissue damage, and even causes increased blood clottingall symptoms found in people with long covid, explains immunologist Onur Boyman, who led the study.

The work doesnt explain why this arm of the immune system continues to be on high alert in some people, while others recoveronly that it seems to be a common feature of long covid. It intersects nicely with some of the leading hypotheses about the root causes of the condition.

Akiko Iwasaki, a professor of immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine who has been a leader in long covid research in the US, called the work a very important piece of the puzzle." This study, along with others looking at this arm of the immune system, are collectively saying that theres something going on inside the blood," she says.

The question for long covid patients is how and when this work could help improve their lives. The next step will be confirming the findings in a larger patient groupand Iwasaki and others seem confident they will be validated. From there, a diagnostic company needs to develop a test for the proteins implicated in a dysregulated complement system.

Then there are treatments. Drugs that try to calm down an overactive complement system are already on the market and in development for other conditions. Some of those were tested to treat acute, severe covid infections, with mixed results. But as evidence accumulates that the complement system contributes to long covid, those treatments should be tested in clinical studies for this population.

Long covid patients need these next steps to happen fast and with the full backing of government funding agencies. At a Senate hearing on long covid this week, Rachel Beale, a long covid advocate, told US lawmakers that she has been frustrated with the lack of progress in finding tests and treatments, and made a plea for continued resources to push the science forward. Three years into her condition, Beale has resigned herself to making peace with her situation, she said.

Let us hope this latest scientific finding is a step forward in improving Beales life and also the lives of millions who currently share her condition. bloomberg
In the days leading up to 22 January, I could not sense any genuine mass euphoria among temple-going Hindus over the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. There was importance attached to the day, like an approaching festivity, and few had a quarrel with the authorities for asking them to observe remote ceremonies or ordering schools and stock markets shut. But I sensed no religious fervour among devout Hindus.

All around me, there has been a spectacle of euphoria at most. In my colony, a security guard was deployed to distribute scented candles with the brand-name Ram". I do not know why scented candles exist as an object in the first place, but I accepted it.

Of course, some people are exhilarated, and some people in India could be millions. My cab driver arrived wearing a saffron cap with images of Lord Ram on it, playing a holy song. I asked him to turn the music off, as I do every time I get into a car. Only after I said it, did I think there could be trouble. He gave me a look, but switched it off. Then he rechecked my name on the app and looked at me again in the rear-view mirror. But we quickly became friends, and I even conducted taxi-driver journalism on him. He did not change my view that at a mass level, there is very little real euphoria. I have not been able to convince anyone about this view, but even Hindus who dispute me are not euphoric themselves. They say others must certainly be filled with passion for the event, but they personally do not know anyone who is moved by Ayodhya today the way Hindus were in the 1990s.

As I write this piece, I feel I am in a time that is similar to times when religions were born, or at least when legendary temples and mosques were dreamt into life. This was perhaps how the Konark Temple was consecratedan emperor willed it, and on the day of the consecration, the whole kingdom had to know, even though only VIPs were invited to the holy site, and surely all schools were shut. After Mir Baqi built the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, the whole town must have came to a standstill for its inauguration. And I wonder if the political act of creating a temple or mosque failed to stir mass religious fervour in olden days too.

A few days ago, a friend told me that it is in the nature of belief that spectacular places of worship, like the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, or Notre Dame in Paris, do not have the same religious gravitas as pilgrimage sites, which are usually small, austere and serious places of worship. This is true, but I feel there is a more immediate reason why there is so little mass religious zeal around the temple. The coolness is a sign that devout Hindus know they have finally won India back in a crucial way; a cultural war that raged for centuries is over. Even though a sense of Hindu victimhood survives as a convenient emotion, I feel that in sober moments few doubt that Hindus are more equal in India. If the crowning glory of the victory, in Ayodhya, has been met with equanimity, it is because victors wear victory easy.

Now that the Hindu side won, what is the meaning of it all? Whats next for India?

In one possible scenario, I hope we can be a little like the UAE, where clarity over a religious identity, Islamic in this Gulf countrys case, underpins a vague secular modernity on the surface that is required to attract Western investments. In that way, the secularism of, say, Dubai is functionally effective. It exists, and within its narrow boundaries, it is even consistent.

There is an argument that India cannot have Dubais diluted secularism because our religious diversity differs significantly in its make-up from the UAEs. Unlike the floating minority groups of the Emirates, Muslims are a sizeable proportion of Indias population, which is reckoned to be above 1.4 billion people now. This tends to complicate the countrys Hindu-Muslim dynamics of popular representation in the context of polarized politics.

As things stand, Muslims appear to have replaced Dalits as Indias actual underclass. Dalits, even in the eras they fared worst, could escape their caste by leaving their village lives to seek cultural anonymity in Indian cities. Muslims in India do not appear to have the same escape path from their social identity, since name recognition plays a role in how they are identified.

For centuries, Hinduism was the indisputable background hum of the country, and caste was the individuals effective social identity. Before the Muslim invasions and Mughal phase of history, as records indicate, Hinduism was so fundamental to India that elite Hindus freely experimented with Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism and scores of faiths and cults that have vanished, without the fear of losing their Hinduness. What never changed for most, however, was their caste. Today, strife related to caste is likely to continue despite a spectacular resurgence of Hindu belief.

This dominance will also not alter the fact that cultural free speech has been vanishing in mainstream India. Society, by and large, is very different from what it was ten years ago. Then Indians enjoyed some kinds of free speech not because of any dedication to ideals, but because of Indian inefficiencies. In the melee of Indian life, some freedoms percolated down to people. Now cultural governance appears to be very organized.

I wish road design and lane discipline were included in the cultural shift that is underway. But all the things that save lives and improve the quality of modern life in India do not fall under the ambit of religion or politics.
After the consecration ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday, BJP leaders, spiritual gurus, celebrities, and opposition leaders extended their congratulations on the occasion. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his gratitude for being present in the ceremony and called it a revolutionary work".

"Everyone feels that a new era is beginning. As a result of Ram Lalla's Pran Pratishtha, we all are feeling that after a long time, Maryada Purushottam Ram is returning to Ayodhya," said Rajnath Singh after attending the ceremony in Ayodhya.

Ram Mandir Ceremony Live updates

The same words were echoed by other BJP leaders who hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fulfilling the dreams of lakhs of people to see the temple of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

The Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla at Ram Temple in Ayodhya was held on Monday. The ceremony was attended by PM Modi. The temple will open for the public a day later after the ceremony.

Also Read: PM Narendra Modi showers flower petals on workers involved in construction of Ram Temple | Watch

The ritual began at 12:20 pm after which PM Modi addressed a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers, politicians, spiritual gurus, and political personalities.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his happiness on social media and said that the wait and promise of 5 centuries was fulfilled on Monday in Ayodhya.

Also Read: Sirf ek vyakti mandir mein ja sakta hai': Rahul Gandhi denied entry into Assam local temple

"Today, when our Ram Lalla is seated in his grand temple, like countless Ram devotees, I too am overwhelmed with emotions. It is not possible to capture this feeling in words," Amit Shah took to 'X' to share his feelings.

The ceremony was held in the presence of PM Modi and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Also Read: Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad: What's in box for invitees?

After the ceremony, Mohan Bhagwat said, Today, after 500 years, Ram Lalla has returned here and due to his efforts, we are seeing this golden day today. We pay our utmost respect to him. The history of this era has so much power that whoever listens to the stories of Ram Lalla, all their sorrows and pains will be erased."

Congratulating PM Modi, Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma said, Ram is not only a symbol of our faith but also our culture. Today, Ram Diwali is being celebrated not only in the country but all over the world. Today is a very important day for Indian society under the leadership of PM Modi. January 22 has emerged as a memorable day for the country. Ram Lalla, who resided in the tent for many years, is today resided in a grand temple. It seems that like 'Sabri' (a Ramayana character), we all are waiting for Ram ji. This event will provide a feeling of unity in the entire country. Today this festival is being organized in 593 temples in Rajasthan."

Also Read: India's economic boost to come from tourism finds SBI Research, UP to take lead with Ram Temple

Despite the denial of Congress's top leadership to attend the Ram Temple ceremony, the Congress ministers from Himachal Pradesh attended the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Meanwhile, several top opposition leaders extended their wishes on the occasion. Congress leader Kamal Nath congratulated people for the Ram Temple consecration ceremony and attacked the BJP for politicising the ceremony.

"The way the BJP has given a political hue to this programme and tried to bring religion onto the political platform is unfortunate. Lord Ram has always been, and will always be, at the centre of faith for all of us. Politics on this is like playing with religious freedom and traditions," he said.

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As the whole nation is celebrating the Pran Pratishtha ceremony held at Ram temple in Ayodhya, several politicians, leaders, and celebrities extended their wishes to the people. Referring to the consecration ceremony, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said, 500 years of slavery have ended today. India has shown that anything is possible in this country. I have full faith that Ram Rajya has begun now."

Also Read: Ram Mandir event today: Ayodhya turns into fortress with ATS commandos, anti-bomb squads | 10 points

He also showered praises for PM Modi. However, on being asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the Nagaon attacks, Himanta Biswa Sarma sidelined the question by referring to the Wayanad MP as Ravan.

"Why are you talking about Ravan today? At least talk about Ram today. We have the opportunity to talk about Ram after 500 years. We should only talk about him and not about Ravan," Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters on Monday.

Also Read: Ram Mandir Consecration: How international media covered Ayodha event

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra was marked with high drama on Monday after he was denied permission to visit the Sri Sri Sankardeva Satra in Assam's Nagaon district. He was also not allowed to hold a meeting in Morigaon district, triggering a strong reaction from the Congress leader who protested and asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi will now "decide who will visit a temple and when".

Later, Rahul Gandhi said that his party is not scared of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. On Sunday, Rahul Gandhi's convoy was allegedly attacked by a mob chanting "Jai Shri Ram" and "Modi Modi" slogans in Assam.

Also Read: Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra: Congress to hold protests today over 'attacks' on Rahul Gandhi's yatra in Assam. 10 key points

The grand old party also alleged that its leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Jairam Ramesh, and Assam unit chief Bhupen Kumar Borah, were targeted at the behest of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and hurdles were being created "every hour" for the Yatra which re-entered Assam from Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday.

Also Read: Ram temple opening: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi says 'had the situation today been same if...'

At the time when Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was interrupted by a group of BJP workers chanting Jai Shri Ram" and raising Modi Modi" slogans, the Congress leader could be seen waving and giving flying kisses. "Our 'Mohabbat ki dukaan' (shop of love) is open to everyone. 'Judega Bharat, Jeetega Hindustan'," Gandhi said in a post on X while sharing a video of the incident.

He even stepped down off the bus to meet the crowd, however, he was quickly escorted back by the security personnel amid jostling.

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Bilateral agreements on Arab-Israeli normalisation signed in 2020. The first round of deals were between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain in September 2020. Sudan normalised relations with Israel the following month and Morocco in December 2020. Negotiations between Israel and Saudi Arabia were disrupted by the war between Israel and Hamas which began in October 2023.

Al-Shifa hospital

Gazas largest hospital. Israel claims that Hamas has its underground headquarters below the building, which Hamas denies. Attacking health-care facilities can be illegal under international law.

Arab Revolt in Palestine

In 1936 unrest broke out in the British mandate of Palestine amid frustration at rising Jewish immigration in the wake of Britains Balfour Declaration. By the summer of 1939 the uprising had been suppressedbut Britain later faced Jewish revolts and after the second world war handed the problem to the United Nations, which voted to partition the land.

Areas A, B and C

A messy patchwork of control in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, agreed in 1995 as part of the Oslo II accord. In Area A, which includes the main Palestinian towns, the Palestinian Authority was given full civil and security control. In Area B it had power over civil affairs and some aspects of law and order, but Israel retained ultimate security control. In Area C, which includes most Jewish settlements, Israel kept full control. See map.

Armistice (1949)

Peace deals signed after the first ArabIsraeli war of 1948. Israel and Arab states divided up the land. No Palestinian state was created; Egypt controlled Gaza while Transjordan (later Jordan) formally annexed the West Bank. See map.

Axis of resistance

Irans network of violent proxies and allies across the Middle East. It includes Hamas in Gaza and the West Bank, Shia militias in Iraq, Hizbullah in Lebanon, militant groups in Syria and the Houthi militia in Yemen.

Balfour Declaration

On November 2nd 1917 Britain issued the Balfour Declaration, named after Arthur Balfour, the British foreign secretary, stating its support for the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people". The document also insists that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine".

Binyamin Netanyahu

Israels longest-serving prime minister and head of the right-wing Likud party. Since December 2022 has led a coalition which includes far-right nationalist and ultra-religious parties. He was previously prime minister from June 1996 to July 1999, and from March 2009 to June 2021. Also known as Bibi. Since 2019 he has faced criminal charges for corruption and fraud.

Black September

A Palestinian terrorist organisation responsible for the massacre of Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics of 1972.

Blockade

A restriction on imports into Gaza, imposed by Israel and Egypt since 2007 after Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist group, took control of the territory.

Camp David accords

Signed by Israel and Egypt in 1978, after the Yom Kippur war. In a peace treaty six months later Israel agreed to give back Sinai to Egypt, and to grant Palestinians autonomy.

Disengagement from Gaza

In 2005, at the end of the second intifada, Israels prime minister, Ariel Sharon, withdrew all Israeli troops and Jewish settlers from the Gaza Strip and evacuated four of the 120 settlements in the West Bank. It also built a security barrier in the West Bank.

East Jerusalem

A sector of Jerusalem annexed by Jordan after the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948, then captured and annexed by Israel during the Six Day War in 1967. Legally it is as a corpus separatum, a separate entity belonging to no country, under the UN partition plan of 1947 but it is widely regarded as being part of the occupied territories.

Fatah

Conquest" or opening" in Arabic. The nationalist party led by Mahmoud Abbas that formed the core of the Palestine Liberation Organisation and dominates the Palestinian Authority, which runs the West Bank. Founded by Yasser Arafat. Its main rival is Hamas.

Gaza city

The largest city in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza Strip

A 365-square-kilometre sliver of land, home mainly to Palestinians, wedged between Egypt, Israel and the Mediterranean. It was administered by Egypt after 1948, and captured by Israel during the Six Day War in 1967. In 2005 Israel disengaged" from Gaza and pulled out Jewish settlers. It is home to roughly 2.2m people, many of whom rely on international aid, and has been run by Hamas, a militant group, since 2007. It was placed under siege, bombarded and then invaded by Israel in retaliation for Hamass attack in October 2023. Read our short history of Gaza.

Genocide

Defined by the UN as acts intended to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group". Israels critics accuse it of committing genocide against the Palestinians; Israel calls Hamas a genocidal group. Read our full explainer on how the term is misused.

Golan Heights

A mountain plateau that dominates the Sea of Galilee. It was seized by Israel from Syria in 1967. In 1981 it annexed 1,800 square kilometres of the territory. Around half of the areas population of 52,000 people are Druze Arabs. It is home to Israels only ski resort.

Green Line

A demarcation line drawn during the Armistice of 1949. It served as the de facto border between Israel and Arab states until the Six Day War of 1967. It forms the basis of Palestinian claims to a state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with Jerusalem as its capital. See map.

Hamas

Islamic Resistance Movement (HMS" are its initials in Arabic), the Palestinian Islamist organisation which runs Gaza. It was founded in 1987 during the first intifada with the aim of destroying Israel and liberating the Palestinian people. In 2006 Hamas won a majority of seats in a Palestinian election and later formed a unity government with Fatah. In June 2007, after a brief civil war, it assumed sole control of Gaza, leaving Fatah to run the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. On October 7th 2023 more than 1,000 Hamas fighters crossed into Israel and killed 1,200 civilians and soldiers, kidnapping 240 more. Read our full explainer about Hamas.

Hizbullah

Party of God" in Arabic. An Iran-backed militant group and political party based in Lebanon, which borders Israel to the north. It is dedicated to the destruction of Israel, and is the worlds most heavily armed non-state actor. Read our full explainer about Hizbullah.

Holocaust

The systematic murder of 6m European Jews by the Nazis during the second world war. It is recognised by most as a genocide. Hamas and other Islamist groups deny the Holocaust happened.

Hostages

Israeli prisoners held by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. On October 7th 2023 around 240 people were taken by Hamas from Israel to Gaza.

Humanitarian pause

A temporary cessation of hostilities purely for humanitarian purposes", according to the UN. Such pauses are usually limited to a defined period of time and to a specific area. A ceasefire goes furtherread our full explainer on the differences and why they matter.

Intifada

From the Arabic verb to shake". It describes campaigns fought by Palestinians against the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. The first intifada, which began in 1987, involved mainly strikes and stone-throwing. During the second intifada, from 2000 to 2005, Palestinians used guns and suicide bombs to blow up Israeli buses and nightclubs.

Iron Beam

An Israeli defence system under construction which will use lasers to shoot incoming rockets or drones out of the sky. Read our full explainer on the laser-defence system.

Iron Dome

Israels system of mobile batteries against short-range rockets and mortars, often fired from Gaza. (The country also has Davids Sling for medium-range rockets and Arrow for longer-range ballistic ones.)

Israel

The modern state of Israel was established in May 1948 by Jewish leaders after the withdrawal of Britain from Palestine. The name also refers to a kingdom in ancient Palestine comprising the lands occupied by the Hebrew people. See map.

Israel Defence Forces

Israels army. Largely made up of reservists with a small core of professional soldiers. Led in 2023 by Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi. Read our profile of General Halevi.

Jerusalem

A city in Israel, holy to Christians, Jews and Muslims. Under the UN partition plan of 1947, Jerusalem was intended to be an international city, part of neither the future Jewish nor Arab states. It was divided by Israel and Jordan in the armistice of 1949. The eastern half was captured by Israel in the Six Day war of 1967, and annexed as part of its eternal and indivisible capital". Most countries keep their embassies in Tel Aviv, but the United States relocated its mission to Jerusalem in 2018.

Jerusalem day

An Israeli holiday marking Israels capture of East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza in the Six Day War in June 1967.

Khan Younis

A city and a refugee camp in southern Gaza in which many of the current leadership of Hamas grew up.

Kibbutz

Agricultural communities in Israel often run as collective economies. Kibbutzim close to Gaza were targeted by Hamas on October 7th 2023.

League of Nations

A forerunner to the United Nations. In 1922 the League gave Britain the mandate to run Palestine as an international territory.

Lebanon war, first

Four month conflict between Israel and Lebanon in 1982. Known in Israel as Operation Peace for Galilee. Israel invaded in order to dismantle Yasser Arafats Palestine Liberation Organisation which had taken control of the south of Lebanon. The war killed thousands of Palestinian and Lebanese civilians, along with hundreds of Israeli and Syrian soldiers. The PLO subsequently moved its headquarters to Tunisia. In 1985 most Israeli troops were withdrawn from Lebanon, except for a border security zone".

Lebanon war, second

Conflict between Israel and Lebanon between July and August 2006. Launched by Israel in an attempt to destroy Hizbullah, an Iran-backed militant group and political party which had created a state within a state" in the south of the country. Israel imposed a naval blockade, bombed Beirut, Lebanons capital, and invaded the south. Six years earlier Israeli troops had withdrawn from the security zone established in 1985.

Mahmoud Abbas

The ageing head of Fatah and the Palestinian Authority, based in the West Bank. Mr Abbas was elected to serve a four-year presidential term in 2005 but has remained in post ever since. He is also head of the Palestine Liberation Organisation and of Fatah.

Nakba

Catastrophe" in Arabic. The mass displacement of Palestinians that accompanied the creation of Israel in 1948. Around 750,000 Palestinian Arabs fled or were pushed out of their homes.

Occupied territories

The collective name for the occupied West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem.

Oslo accords

In 1993 Israel and the Palestinians, represented by the Palestine Liberation Organisation, signed the first Oslo accord, which set out a five-year period of Palestinian autonomy in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip under a new entity, the Palestinian Authority. The Oslo II accords, under which Israel handed over security responsibility to the Palestinian Authority in parts of the occupied territories, were signed in 1995 with the intention of a permanent treaty five years later. That did not happen.

Palestine Liberation Organisation

A Palestinian organisation recognised by the Arab League as the sole legitimate representative" of the Palestinian people. Represents Palestinians internationally, including at the UN.

Palestinian Authority

An autonomous government for parts of Gaza and the West Bank founded in 1994. Intended to be the basis of a future Palestinian state. Its first leader was Yasser Arafat, leader of the Palestine Liberation Organisation. Expelled from Gaza by Hamas in 2007. Widely seen by Palestinians as corrupt and incompetent.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad

A militant group with links to Iran which operates in the West Bank and Gaza with the aim of establishing an Islamic state. Unlike Hamas the group limits itself to armed conflict. It has never participated in elections and has provided little support to people in Gaza. Read our full explainer about the group.

Palestinians

A population of around 14m people who trace their origins to British-ruled Palestine. Around 7m Palestinians live in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Another 7m are strewn across the Arab world and beyond. Nearly 6m are registered as refugees.

Rafah crossing

A border crossing between Gaza and Egypts Sinai peninsula. Used during the war of 2023 to import aid.

Ramallah

A city in the West Bank and the de facto capital of the Palestinian Authority.

San Remo Conference

A conference of European powers and Japan held in Italy in 1920 during which the Ottoman empire was carved up. Britain was given a mandate to rule Palestine, the international territory envisioned under the Sykes-Picot agreement.

Settlers

Around 700,000 Israelis living in the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights. Their presence is considered illegal under international law. Violence between settlers and Palestinians is common.

Sinai peninsula

Territory briefly seized by Israel from Egypt during the Suez crisis in 1956 and again in the Six Day War in 1967. It was returned to Egypt in 1982 as part of a peace deal. See map.

Six Day War

Brief armed conflict between Israel and its Arab neighbours in June 1967. Israel tripled its territory, capturing the West Bank, East Jerusalem, the Gaza Strip, the Golan Heights and the Sinai peninsula. Israel has since moved to build Jewish settlements on some of the land occupied during the war.

Suez crisis

In October 1956 Israel invaded Egypt, capturing the Sinai peninsula and the Gaza Strip. The conflict was planned in collusion with Britain and France in order to allow them to regain control of the Suez Canal which they had run until Egypts president, Gamal Abdul Nasser, nationalised it in July 1956. America was outraged and pushed Britain to abort the mission. In December 1956 the Israelis withdrew from Sinai and in March 1957 they withdrew from Gaza.

Sykes-Picot

Agreement During the first world war Sir Mark Sykes, a British diplomat, and Francois Georges-Picot, a French one, were appointed to secretly divvy up the lands of the Ottoman empire. The Arab provinces were to be split up among European powers. Given its significance in Christianity, Islam and Judaism, Palestine was envisioned as an international territory.

Tel Aviv

Israels largest city and financial capital. Of the 96 embassies in Israel, 91 are located in Tel Aviv (the other five, including the American embassy, are in Jerusalem).

Transjordan

An Arab kingdom under Hashemite rule, created by Britain in 1921 after the San Remo Conference. Now Jordan.

Tunnels

First built for smuggling, tunnels under Gaza are used by Hamas fighters to attack Israel and to hide from Israeli fire. After the October 7th attacks the Israel Defence Forces unleashed air strikes to damage the tunnels.

Two-state solution

A proposed peace plan to end the Isreli-Palestinian conflict that is widely supported internationally. A Palestinian state would be formed in Gaza and the West Bank; Israel would swap chunks of its territory for portions with large settlements in the West Bank. Jerusalem would be shared, with some sort of joint control over the old city.

UNRWA

The UNs Relief and Works Agency, which looks after the welfare of 5.9m registered Palestinian refugees in the Middle East.

War of Independence

Israels name for the war of 1947-48. On May 14th 1948 Jewish leaders established the state of Israel. On May 15th a coalition of Arab neighbours invaded. At the end of the war Israel increased its territory to include land the UN had intended for an Arab state, as well as West Jerusalem. Transjordan held the West Bank and East Jerusalem and Egypt held the Gaza Strip. The war was followed by the mass displacement of Palestinian Arabs, known in Arabic as the Nakba.

West Bank

Israeli-occupied territory run in part by the Palestinian Authority. Palestinians view it as the core of their would-be state. Right-wing and religious Israelis regard it as their ancestral territory, with many biblical sites, and are pushing for Israel to annex it in part or entirely. Home to increasing numbers of Israeli settlers.

Yom Kippur war

In October 1973, on the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur, Egypt and Syria launched an attack in Sinai and the Golan Heights. The war lasted three weeks and ended with a ceasefire secured by the UN.

Zionism

A movement founded by Theodor Herzl, an Austro-Hungarian Jew, with the aim of creating a Jewish homeland. In the 1920s the movement was dominated by socialists, who went on to establish the state of Israel on socialist principles. In more recent years religious Zionism, an offshoot, which regards Zionism as a fundamental component of Orthodox Judaism, has become a powerful force.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
In this modern day, characterized by the rapid advancement of technology, premium phones have emerged as the quintessential status symbol and an indispensable possession for numerous individuals. These top-tier devices are meticulously crafted to deliver cutting-edge features, unparalleled performance, and an aesthetic sophistication that sets them apart. With robust processors, captivating displays and expansive storage capacities, premium phones guarantee an unparalleled user experience. Marketed by industry giants and an expansive array of manufacturers, the market is replete with an assortment of premium options, catering to diverse budgets and discerning preferences.

Whether you identify as a fervent tech enthusiast, a seasoned professional in search of a dependable companion device, or someone with an appreciation for meticulous craftsmanship, premium phones beckon as your gateway to immersing yourself in the zenith of smartphone technology. These devices, symbolic of technological opulence, not only fulfill the practical needs of users but also embody a statement of refined taste and discernment. In a world where staying at the forefront of innovation is paramount, owning a premium phone becomes a testament to one's commitment to staying ahead in the realm of technological sophistication.

The allure of premium phones lies not only in their formidable specifications but also in the seamless integration of artistry and functionality. As indispensable tools for both work and leisure, these devices seamlessly blend into the diverse lifestyles of their users. Elevating the ordinary into the extraordinary, premium phones transcend mere communication devices; they encapsulate a fusion of elegance and innovation that resonates with those who demand nothing but the best. So, heres the list that provides the best of what you desire!

1. Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max (256 GB)

The iPhone 15 Pro Max features a textured matte-glass back and an aerospace-grade titanium construction that is both light and robust. It also has a Ceramic Shield front, which is more durable than the glass on any smartphone. Boasting a massive 256GB storage capacity, this smartphone provides ample space for storing your files, photos, apps, and videos without worrying about running out of space. For optimal graphics performance, the 6.7" Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion can boost refresh rates to 120Hz. Alerts and live notifications are bubbled up on the dynamic island. With lifelike characters and lush backgrounds, mobile games are greatly enhanced with a Pro-class GPU. With seven pro lenses, you can frame objects with amazing flexibility. Take incredibly detailed, colorful, and high-resolution pictures with the 48MP primary camera. Additionally, use the 15 Pro Max's 5x Telephoto camera to capture closer, crisper close-ups from a greater distance.

Specifications of Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max (256 GB)

Brand: Apple

Colour: Natural Titanium

OS: iOS

Weight: 221 g

Dimensions: 8 x 77 x 160 Millimeters

Pros Cons aerospace-grade titanium and textured matte-glass relatively expensive for budget-conscious consumers. Seven lenses, including a 48MP primary camera

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 5G

With its innovative folding design, it combines the convenience of a smartphone with the functionality of a tablet. The Galaxy Z Fold5's 15.73 cm (6.2-inch) Cover Screen allows it to perform a lot with one hand. You can truly immerse yourself in the moment when the 19.21 cm (7.6-inch) Main Screen is unfolded. With pushed-back bezels and an Under Display Camera, the amazing Infinity Flex Display is more visible to you and is not obscured by a black dot. Make the most of the large Main Screen with Multi View for switching between texts and reading emails. Crafted from premium Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2, the front and rear panels are equipped to withstand inconspicuous scratches and scrapes. This is regarded as one sturdy smartphone, with the strongest aluminum frame composed of Armor Aluminum.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 5G

Brand: Samsung

Colour: Cream

OS: Android 13.0

Weight: 253 g

Dimensions: 6 x 130 x 155 Millimeters

Pros Cons Seamlessly transition between smartphone and tablet it might be considered heavy for some users Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2 and an Armor Aluminum frame, providing durability.

3. Motorola razr 40 Ultra

The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra represents the epitome of style and innovation in the world of smartphones. With its design, this cutting-edge device is a true showstopper. Its ultra-thin and compact form factor make it perfect for those who value portability and convenience without compromising on technological advancements. It has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the front and back, IP52 water-repellent construction and a non-removable 3800mAh battery which supports 30W TurboPower charging Support for 5W wireless charging. Moreover, the device boasts a stunning display that offers vivid colors and sharp details, enriching your visual experience whether you're browsing the web or immersing yourself in your favorite movies or games. The Motorola Razr 40 Ultra is a testament to the company's commitment to delivering top-notch quality and performance, appealing not only to the tech-savvy crowd but also to those who appreciate the merge of style.

Specifications of Motorola razr 40 Ultra

Brand: Motorola

Colour: Viva Magenta

OS: Android 13.0

Weight: 185 g

Dimensions: 17.1 x 7.4 x 0.7 Centimeters

Pros Cons ultra-thin design and vibrant display The non-removable 3800mAh battery might be considered relatively small for power-hungry users. 0W TurboPower charging and water-repellent construction

4. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G is the latest addition to Samsung's impressive lineup of smartphones, and it comes packed with an array of cutting-edge features. Boasting a stunning display, this device offers a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, guaranteeing a visually immersive and crisp viewing experience. One significant change to the eye-catching symmetrical design of the Galaxy S23 Ultra is the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials. The glass finish and the metal frame are both polished with brand-new, naturally inspired colors. The legacy of the Note series is preserved by the integrated S Pen. Additionally, it frees you from the need for notebooks, making note-taking and sketching simple and environmentally responsible. Pro-grade cameras capture crisper images and videos from twilight until daybreak. With Nightography, the clever pixel sensor adjusts to low light conditions, and the camera lens reduces flare to improve image quality.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G

Brand: Samsung

Colour: Green

OS: Android 13.0

Weight: 233 g

Dimensions: 9 x 75 x 165 Millimeters

Pros Cons recycled materials and environmentally inspired colors contribute to sustainability. With a weight of 233g and larger dimensions, it may feel slightly bulkier the integrated S Pen enhances productivity for note-taking and sketching.

5. Apple iPhone 14

Apple has gone above and beyond to deliver its users an amazing smartphone that blends cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality, building on the success of its previous models. Expect an unparalleled visual experience with a beautiful Super Retina XDR OLED display with a faster refresh rate. The iPhone 14 definitely raises the bar for mobile photography with its potent A15 chip and improved computational photography capabilities, enabling users to take amazing pictures with ease. All things considered, the Apple iPhone 14 poised to completely change how we use smartphones by providing the ideal balance of performance, style, and privacy in a small package.

Specifications of Apple iPhone 14

Brand: Apple

Colour: Blue

OS: iOS

Weight: 172 grams

Dimensions: 46.7 x 71.5 x 7.80 mm

Pros Cons Super Retina XDR OLED display with a faster refresh rate absence of expandable storage The A15 chip and improved computational photography capabilities

6. OnePlus 11 5G

The OnePlus 11 5G, the company's newest offering, is here to transform the smartphone industry with its features and remarkable technology. Users can experience blazing-fast internet speeds and easy surfing that eliminates latency and buffering with 5G connectivity. With a vibrantly colored high-resolution screen that exhibits images and movies with amazing clarity, the OnePlus 11 has an amazing display. This device's strong processor and lots of RAM allow for seamless multitasking and effective performance whether you're streaming, gaming, or using several apps at once. The OnePlus 11 5G's powerful camera technology also allows it to produce movies and images with incredibly rich colors and details.

Specifications of OnePlus 11 5G

Brand: OnePlus

Colour: Titan Black

OS: OxygenOS

Weight: 205 g

Dimensions: 7.5 x 0.9 x 16.3 Centimeters

Pros Cons Experience fast internet speeds Weighing 205g, it might be considered slightly heavy A high-resolution, vibrant display coupled with a robust processor and ample RAM

7. Apple iPhone 15 (128 GB)

This latest offering from Apple promises to take smartphone technology to new heights, introducing a host of innovative features. The robust aluminum and color-infused glass design of the iPhone 15 is striking. It resists dust, water, and splashes. Its Ceramic Shield front is more durable than any glass seen in smartphones. Additionally, compared to the iPhone 14, the 6.1" Super Retina XDR display is up to two times brighter in the sun. The primary 48MP camera captures images at incredibly high resolution. It's now simpler than ever to capture unique images with incredible detail. With the 2x optical quality Telephoto, you can compose the ideal close-up. Advanced features like Voice Isolation for phone calls, smooth Dynamic Island transitions, and computational photography are powered by this lightning-fast CPU. Likewise, A16 Bionic's exceptional efficiency contributes to its excellent all-day battery life.

Specifications of Apple iPhone 15 (128 GB)

Brand: Apple

Colour: Black

OS: iOS

Weight: 171 g

Dimensions: 8 x 72 x 148 Millimeters

Pros Cons Robust aluminum and color-infused glass design relatively expensive for budget-conscious consumers. The 6.1" Super Retina XDR display is up to two times brighter

8. realme narzo 60 5G

Equipped with a powerful MediaTek Dimensity processor, this device ensures efficient multitasking and smooth app performance. Whether you're toggling between different apps or running resource-intensive tasks, the narzo 60 5G has got you covered. Give yourself a vivid, 90Hz Super AMOLED display experience for a fluid, responsive visual experience. Experience smooth scrolling, smooth animations, and incredibly fine image quality to make your material come to life like never before. Savor the svelte appearance of the incredibly thin design, which has a thickness of just 7.93mm. This thin profile guarantees an ergonomic and comfortable grip in addition to improving the device's appearance. The device is beautifully made of leather and radiates elegance and sophistication. Everywhere you go, the silky and soft texture of the leather creates an opulent and comfortable feeling. You can also enhance your photographic abilities and explore your creative vision with the help of cutting-edge features and AI technologies.

Specifications of realme narzo 60 5G:

Brand: realme

Colour: Mars Orange

OS: Android 13.0

Weight: 182 g

Dimensions: 8 x 73 x 160 Millimeters

Pros Cons Equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity processor Users with a preference for ultra-slim devices might find the 7.93mm thickness slightly bulky. vivid 90Hz Super AMOLED display

9. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 5G

Combining functionality and style that fits in your pocket, this device a bold piece that fits in your pocket. This phone folds up small enough to fit in your palm, yet it makes a great statement with its slick, hazy colors that go with your style. Never before have foldable cellphones been so robust and water-resistant. With their unique Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2 outside and very sturdy Ultra Thin Glass interior, this scratch-resistant devices are the toughest ever. The hinge is additionally shielded by Armor Aluminum. Another interesting feature is that, with Quick Shot you can take a selfie directly from the Cover Screen. You can even adjust the aspect ratio to see the entire frame before you press the shutter. Alternatively, unfold and position the FlexCam to hold up the camera so you can take a group photo or selfie without using your hands.

Specifications of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 5G:

Brand: Samsung

Colour: Mint

OS:  Android 13.0

Weight: 187 g

Dimensions: 7 x 72 x 165 Millimeters

Pros Cons compact and pocket-friendly. Limited Camera Features Robust with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2

10. Nothing Phone (2) 5G

Using this phone is intriguing since it features GLYPH INTERFACE, an enhanced technology that allows you to know your notifications even while you're not touching it. For every contact you have, you have the ability to customize a separate light and sound sequence. This monochromatic smartphone has a 15% faster app launch time and is snappy, speedy, and intuitive. Additionally, you receive OS upgrades for a maximum of three years. This phone's Quick Settings option makes it easy to switch between features and apps. Apps like Weather and Nothing X allow you to retrieve information straight from your home screen. With the 2X Super-res Zoom camera, you can record even the smallest details and treasure the memories for years to come. The 4K 60 fps rear camera will let you capture clearer, higher-quality footage for your cinematography endeavors.

Specifications of Nothing Phone (2) 5G:

Brand: Nothing

Colour: White

OS: Android 13 || Nothing OS 2.0

Weight: 201 g

Dimensions: 16.2 x 7.6 x 0.9 Centimeters

Pros Cons Intriguing Glyph Interface Niche Customization Three years of OS upgrades

Best 3 features for you:

Product Feature 1 Feature 2 Feature 3 Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max (256 GB) The iPhone 15 Pro Max stands out with its textured matte-glass back, aerospace-grade titanium construction Users can enjoy the convenience of storing a vast amount of data without concerns about running out of space The device excels in photography with a 48MP primary camera and a 5x Telephoto camera for detailed and crisp close-ups Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 5G Its innovative folding design provides a 15.73 cm Cover Screen for one-handed use and a 19.21 cm Main Screen for an immersive experience Crafted from Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2 and featuring the strongest Armor Aluminum frame The Infinity Flex Display, with pushed-back bezels and an Under Display Camera Motorola razr 40 Ultra Perfect for those valuing portability, the device features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, IP52 water-repellent construction The device boasts a stunning display that delivers vivid colors and sharp details supports 30W TurboPower charging and 5W wireless charging, ensuring quick and efficient charging Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra 5G visually immersive experience with its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel boasting a high resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels The integrated S Pen enhances productivity, eliminating the need for notebooks and promoting environmentally responsible note-taking and sketching. pro-grade cameras that capture crisper images and videos, especially in low-light conditions Apple iPhone 14 The device is designed to provide users with a seamless and secure user experience delivers an unparalleled visual experience with its beautiful Super Retina XDR OLED display and a faster refresh rate its potent A15 chip and improved computational photography capabilities. OnePlus 11 5G The device features a vibrantly colored high-resolution screen that exhibits images and movies with amazing clarity The powerful camera technology enhances the production of videos and images with rich colors and details The 5G connectivity ensures a smooth online experience Apple iPhone 15 (128 GB) features a robust aluminum and color-infused glass design, offering resistance to dust, water, and splashes. The 6.1' Super Retina XDR display of the iPhone 15 is up to two times brighter in the sun Powered by the lightning-fast A16 Bionic chip, the iPhone 15 supports advanced features realme narzo 60 5G offers a vivid 90Hz Super AMOLED display, providing a fluid and responsive visual experience equipped with a powerful MediaTek Dimensity processor, ensuring efficient multitasking and smooth app performance measuring just 7.93mm, ensures an ergonomic and comfortable grip. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 5G The Quick Shot feature allows users to take a selfie directly from the Cover Screen features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus2 outside and Ultra Thin Glass interior Flip5 5G is robust and water-resistant. Nothing Phone (2) 5G Allows users to receive notifications without touching the device With a 15% faster app launch time, the Nothing Phone (2) 5G ensures a snappy, speedy, and intuitive user experience The 4K 60 fps rear camera elevates the device's photography capabilities

Best overall product

The new Apple iPhone 15 has undoubtedly emerged as the best overall product in the smartphone market. Boasting an array of groundbreaking features, this latest release epitomizes Apple's commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. One of the most notable enhancements is the advanced camera system, which now incorporates an incredible Camera sensor. This revolutionary upgrade ensures stunningly detailed and vivid photos, placing the iPhone 15 at the forefront of mobile photography. Additionally, the device offers a seamless user experience thanks to the lightning-fast A16 Bionic chip, which not only ensures snappy performance but also supports powerful AI capabilities. The larger and sharper Super Retina XDR display provides unmatched visual quality, while the 5G support guarantees blazing-fast internet connectivity. Moreover, the iPhone 15's robust battery life can effortlessly keep up with a day's worth of heavy usage.

Best value for money

The realme narzo 60 5G offers incredible value for money. Packed with impressive features and an affordable price tag, this device is a game-changer in the mid-range smartphone market. The narzo 60 5G is powered by a high-performance MediaTek Dimensity processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient performance. With its 6.4-inch display and high screen-to-body ratio, users can immerse themselves in stunning visuals and vibrant colors. The device also boasts a Prolight-camera setup, featuring a 64MP main camera, capturing every moment with exceptional clarity. Furthermore, the massive 5,000mAh battery combined with 33W fast charging ensures long-lasting usage without worrying about running out of power.

How to find the perfect premium phones?

The wide range of alternatives available in today's tech-savvy society might make choosing the ideal premium phone seem like an overwhelming undertaking. A few important factors can help you streamline the process and arrive at a well-informed choice. Begin by determining your specific needs and preferences, whether it's a top-notch camera, a powerful processor, or a sleek design. Research different brands and models to understand their features, performance, and user reviews. Don't forget to consider your budget and prioritize features that matter most to you. Look for premium phones that offer a balance between hardware specifications and software optimization, as this can greatly impact the overall user experience. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of physically handling a phone before purchasing. Visit stores, hold the devices in your hand, and test their functionality to gauge how it feels to use.

FAQs

Question : What sets premium phones apart from budget options?

Ans : Premium phones distinguish themselves through superior build quality, high-end specifications, and advanced features. They often boast top-of-the-line processors, ample RAM and storage, and innovative camera systems.

Question : Are premium phones worth the higher price tag?

Ans : While budget phones can meet basic needs, premium phones offer a host of benefits that justify their higher cost. These devices provide faster performance, better cameras, higher-quality displays, and longer software support. Their durability and premium materials also contribute to a longer lifespan, resulting in a more satisfying long-term investment.

Question : How do premium phones compare in terms of camera quality?

Ans : Premium phones often feature impressive camera systems that include multiple lenses, larger image sensors, and advanced image processing. This combination enables them to capture stunning photos even in challenging lighting conditions. With features like optical image stabilization, night mode, and AI enhancements, premium phones offer extraordinary photography capabilities.

Question : Do premium phones support 5G connectivity?

Ans : Yes, premium phones are at the forefront of adopting the latest connectivity technologies. Many high-end models now feature 5G compatibility, enabling lightning-fast download and browsing speeds. This ensures future-proofing as networks continue to roll out 5G coverage across the world.

Question : Can premium phones withstand water and dust?

Ans : Most premium smartphones are designed to be water and dust resistant, making them more durable in challenging environments. With an IP68 rating, these devices can withstand being submerged in water for a limited time and resist dust ingress.

Disclaimer: At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

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As the entrepreneurial world eagerly awaits the Interim Budget of 2024, the gaming industry, a prominent player in India's startup ecosystem, has outlined its expectations for the forthcoming budget. Industry leaders and experts, including Kashyap Reddy, Co-founder & CEO of Hitwicket, Lumikai's Founding General Partner Salone Sehgal, Kavitha Rao, COO and Co-founder of 10club homes, Gaurav Agarwal, Co-founder of Nat Habit, and Raman Khanduja, Co-founder and CEO of Mintoak, have shared their insights on the pivotal areas they believe need attention from the government.

Kashyap Reddy, with a focus on the gaming sector, emphasized the importance of a clear regulatory framework for online gaming and esports. He requested specific regulations to address the ambiguity between video games and real-money games. Reddy also highlighted the need for increased investment in digital infrastructure, particularly in internet connectivity, with a specific emphasis on 5G deployment. This move, he believes, would not only enhance digital connectivity for gaming apps but also promote the use of digital payment modes like UPI.

Intellectual Property rights were another key point raised by Reddy, stressing the importance of support for protecting and monetizing IP in the creative gaming content field. Recognizing esports as a legitimate sport and supporting its infrastructure were also highlighted as crucial elements for the growth of the gaming sector. Reddy concluded by suggesting the establishment of government-supported incubators for gaming startups, which could significantly contribute to channeling the creative energy of the youth towards innovation.

Salone Sehgal, Founding General Partner at Lumikai, shed light on the remarkable growth of India's gaming market, currently valued at $3 billion in 2023. Sehgal emphasized the need for policies that encourage the creation of "Make in India, for India and the world" content and technology. With the rise in mobile phone usage, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, Sehgal stressed the importance of locally relevant, culturally resonant content. Lumikai expects the budget to support sector-specific game upskilling, provide tax breaks for global players investing in the Indian market, and allocate funds for AI research and development.

Kavitha Rao, COO and Co-founder of 10club homes, shifted the focus to the retail industry, projecting it to become the world's third-largest by 2027. Rao highlighted the need for measures to revive consumer spending, increase disposable incomes, boost manufacturing in various material types, and address the challenge of skilling in the retail sector. The retail industry looks forward to a reduction in GST rates for retail products to enhance affordability, encourage consumer spending, and fuel demand.

Gaurav Agarwal, Co-founder of Nat Habit, emphasized the challenges faced by startups in the beauty and personal care market. Agarwal advocated for tailored policies to address the financial imbalance caused by an inverted GST structure. Additionally, he called for equity in long-term capital gains between public and private companies and proposed a reduced GST rate for essential personal care items. Agarwal urged the government to recognize the transformative potential of direct-to-consumer (D2C) models, seeking comprehensive support for economic growth and national well-being.

Raman Khanduja, Co-founder and CEO of Mintoak, highlighted the role of regulatory and economic environments in making India a global success story in digital payments. Khanduja emphasized the need for increased penetration and awareness of the India stack, including UPI, Aadhar, eKYC, and DigiLocker. He called for government initiatives to drive digital literacy, especially in Tier 3 and beyond, to accelerate the adoption of digital payments.

As the gaming industry and various sectors express their expectations, the nation eagerly awaits the unveiling of the Interim Budget 2024.

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Samsung has unleashed its latest flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S24 series, showcasing a plethora of innovative AI features that aim to redefine the mobile user experience. Branded under the umbrella term "Galaxy AI," these features are designed to simplify everyday tasks, enhance productivity, and unleash creativity. Let us delve into the standout features of the Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, and S24 Ultra, and compare them to the AI offerings from tech giant Google.

Live Translation

Among the standout features, Samsung's Live Translation takes the spotlight. This groundbreaking tool facilitates real-time voice and text translation during phone calls, supporting 13 languages and 17 dialects. The live translation feature enables two individuals conversing in different languages to engage in a basic conversation seamlessly. The inclusion of a Transcribe Assist in the voice recorder further extends translation capabilities.

Interpreter

Similar to Live Translation, the Interpreter feature focuses on translating conversations into text, displayed on a split-screen. This text-based transcription allows individuals to engage in face-to-face conversations while reading the translated content. Notably, this feature operates without the need for cellular data or Wi-Fi, ensuring accessibility in various scenarios.

Circle to Search

Introducing Circle to Search, Samsung provides a unique and visually intuitive way to launch Google searches. Users can circle, highlight, scribble, or tap on any part of an image, video, or text, instantly triggering a relevant Google search. This feature proves handy for exploring more details about images or quickly identifying products within photos.

Chat Assist

Integrated into the keyboard, Chat Assist analyzes and adjusts the tone of messages as users type. This feature proves invaluable for tailoring messages to different contexts, whether it is a professional email or a catchy social media caption. Users can effortlessly refine their messages to align with the intended tone and style.

Generative Edit

The Generative Edit feature employs AI to make reality-bending edits to photos, similar to Google Pixel 8's Magic Editor. Users can remove objects from images, with Generative Edit seamlessly filling in the background. While major AI alterations are watermarked, minor edits, like removing reflections, go unnoticed.

Note Assist

Note Assist takes note-taking to the next level by offering AI-generated summaries, translations, and file formatting within Samsung's Notes app. Additionally, it creates digital covers for notes, providing users with quick previews for easy identification.

Google Pixel 8

Google's Pixel 8, launched last year, set the stage for the ongoing AI arms race in smartphones. The Pixel 8 series boasts impressive AI features, making it a formidable competitor to Samsung's Galaxy AI.

Magic Editor

Google's Magic Editor utilizes generative AI and advanced processing techniques for effortless yet sophisticated photo edits. From repositioning subjects to creating entirely new backgrounds, this feature caters to users seeking professional-level edits without the need for specialized skills or third-party apps.

Best Take

A standout tool in the Pixel 8 lineup, Best Take allows users to seamlessly swap faces in a series of photos. This feature is perfect for creating unified group photos where everyone is looking at the camera and smiling.

Call Screen

Google's Call Screen feature, enhanced in the Pixel 8, leverages Google Assistant to answer calls and filter out unwanted robocalls or scammers. The natural-sounding voice and improved context understanding elevate the call management experience.

Audio Magic Eraser

Pixel 8 introduces Audio Magic Eraser, an AI-powered tool that targets and reduces unwanted sounds in recorded videos. Whether it's background music or wind noise, this feature ensures clear and crisp audio in your video recordings.

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Eight Wiregrass residents will serve federal prison sentences for their convictions in a million-dollar counterfeit U.S. Treasury bond case.

Acting United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross Monday said the eight individuals convicted of creating and passing dozens of counterfeit bonds, and one defendant was convicted of illegally possessing a firearm.

According to court records, in 2021, 38-year-old Zachary Lee Hale, of Daleville began making fake United States Treasury Bond Certificates and redeeming them at credit unions and banks in the Wiregrass area. Once he figured out that his scheme was successful, Hale recruited at least six others to join him and pass additional counterfeit bonds.

Court documents indicate that Hale and his co-conspirators were responsible for at least $1,093,911 in loss to various financial institutions. Hale pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud in October 2023. On Jan. 17, a federal judge sentenced Hale to 92 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

Also sentenced Jan. 17 were five others who redeemed Hales fake bonds or recruited others to do so:

Stephanie Jean Abercrombie, 42, from Daleville was sentenced to 42 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud.

David Michael Penuel, 45, of Kinston, Alabama, received a sentence of 18 months, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank fraud.

Joni Marie Andrews, 43, also from Kinston, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States.

Marsha Renee Skeen, 52, of Daleville, received a sentence of one year of probation following a guilty plea to misprision of a felony.

Timothy Bryant Baxter, 45, of Troy, was sentenced to six months of home confinement as a condition of two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud.

Previously, on Nov. 8, 2023, Joseph Fletcher Lee, Jr., 48, originally from Marianna, Florida, received a sentence of 36 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud. Lee was also involved in Hales scheme.

After all defendants were sentenced in Hales scheme, the judge ordered each one to pay restitution for the amount of loss they caused.

Two additional unrelated prosecutions resulted from this investigation. On November 13, 2023, a judge sentenced 38-year-old John Robert Whyte, a resident of Munford, Alabama, to 18 months in prison for manufacturing counterfeit obligations and for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Dustin Andrew Riley, 32, from Skipperville, Alabama, received a sentence of 21 months in prison on August 17, 2023, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Manufacturing and redeeming counterfeit bonds is not a victimless crime, stated Acting United States Attorney Ross. Financial institutions and the American taxpayer pay the price of these selfish schemes. I am thankful to every agency involved in these investigations.

The U.S. Secret Service has a long tradition of investigating those who aim to exploit our financial systems and target innocent victims, stated Resident Agent in Charge Robert T. Haralson with the United States Secret Services Montgomery Resident Office. We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners, as we worked together to bring these offenders to justice. With support from the U.S. Attorneys Office, we will continue to investigate, arrest, and support prosecution of criminals who choose to commit fraud in Alabama and across the nation.

The United States Secret Service investigated these cases, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Dale County Sheriffs Office, the Enterprise Police Department, the Daleville Police Department, and the Coffee County Sheriffs Office. United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted the cases.
South Korean entrepreneur Do Kwons Terraform Labs, once a rising star in the cryptocurrency realm, has faced a dramatic crash that is now leading the company to seek bankruptcy protection in the United States. Court documents filed on Sunday reveal the extent of the downfall, particularly in Terraform Labs stablecoins TerraUSD and Luna, causing a staggering wipeout of approximately $40 billion in investments. The repercussions extended beyond, triggering losses exceeding $400 billion in the broader global crypto market.

Do Kwon, who played a pivotal role in co-founding Terraform in 2018, has encountered legal troubles, having been arrested last year in Montenegro. Currently awaiting extradition to either the United States or South Korea, Kwon faces fraud charges in both jurisdictions directly tied to the catastrophic crash of TerraUSD and Luna.

The bankruptcy filing, according to a statement from Terraform Labs, is a strategic move to enable the company to continue executing its business plan amid ongoing legal battles. This includes representative litigation pending in Singapore and U.S. litigation involving the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Terraform Labs affirms its commitment to meeting all financial obligations to employees and vendors during the Chapter 11 case, asserting that additional financing is not required for this purpose.

Terraform Labs court filing in the U.S. state of Delaware provides insight into the financial situation, listing both assets and liabilities in the $100 million to $500 million range. An alarming revelation comes from the fact that Do Kwon holds 92 percent of Terraforms shares, further complicating the companys intricate web of challenges.

The SECs charges against Kwon and Terraform, accusing them of orchestrating a multi-billion dollar crypto asset securities fraud, underscore the tumultuous aftermath of TerraUSD and Lunas crash. Initially marketed as a stablecoin, designed to be pegged to stable assets like the U.S. dollar to prevent drastic fluctuations, the tokens spiraled into a death spiral in May 2022 despite billions in investments and global attention.

Experts analyzing the situation suggest that Kwon may have set up a glorified Ponzi scheme, leaving numerous investors bereft of their life savings. The entrepreneur evaded the crisis by leaving South Korea before the crash, spending months on the run. His journey came to an end with custody in Montenegro, where he was apprehended while attempting to board a flight with fake Costa Rican travel documents.

As of November, a court decision determined Kwons extradition pending approval from Montenegros minister of justice, leaving a trail of lessons and cautionary tales regarding the pitfalls associated with stablecoins and the potential consequences for both creators and investors.

In conclusion, Terraform Labs unraveling serves as a stark reminder of the risks and dangers posed by stablecoins, emphasizing the need for heightened scrutiny, regulatory oversight, and investor awareness in the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrency.
Over 1,000 Volkswagen workers have launched a campaign to join the United Autoworkers Union (UAW). One employee says she loves working at Volkswagen, but says she wants a seat at the table.
Yes, employers can set a mandatory retirement age - what you need to know
PM calls on Romanian oil industry to invest in Vietnam

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks at an event in Prahova, Romania on Jan. 21, 2024. Photo by Tran Thuong

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has invited Romanian businesses to invest in Vietnamese oil and gas projects.

Vietnam is expanding some of its refineries and building a gas-fired power plant, and these are investment opportunities for Romanian companies, especially those based in oil hub Prahova, the visiting leader said Sunday.

"We are ready for partnership. Romanian companies, especially Prahova businesses, can come and invest, transfer their technology, human resources and equipment in the oil and gas industry."

This would improve the bilateral relationship, he said.

Prahova is the top oil and gas hub in Romania. The countrys first refinery was established here, and hundreds of Vietnamese engineers have graduated from the Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, the Bucharest Academy of Petroleum and Geology and Ploiesti University of Petroleum.

Vietnam has two refineries.

The government is considering building a refinery and storage complex in the southern province of Ba Ria  Vung Tau at a cost of US$18.5 billion.

The country targets having 30,420 MW of gas-fired electricity capacity by 2030, three-fourths from liquefied natural gas.

Chinh said Vietnam and Romania could overcome geographical distance with technology.

A commercial partnership would link the two countries economies and help realize the vision of their leaderships, he said.

Chinh and his wife arrived in Bucharest on Jan. 20 afternoon local time at the start of an official visit to Romania at the invitation of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu.

Vietnam and Romania established diplomatic relations in 1950. In 2022 bilateral trade was a worth $400 million after quadrupling from four years earlier.

As of 2022 Romanian companies had invested $1.6 million in five projects in Vietnam.
This year marks the passing of three decades since Longford Museum closed its doors. Longford Historical Society are hoping the milestone will spark action to restore the culturally important institution.

The museum was open from 1991 to 1994, but it closed due to structural problems in the building. Longford Historical Society were the main movers keeping the repository of significant local artefacts on the agenda.



Founded in 1967 by a group of far-seeing people realising the need to raise awareness of the importance of heritage, Longford Historical Society promotes an interest in the study of local history.



The society owns a major collection of artefacts, archives and books, currently in storage since the Main St museum closed.

Since the closure the society has pursued the goal of establishing a professionally-run County Museum for Longford.

Author and local historian, Bernard Sexton, expressed dismay about the inaction of the local authority about making provisions to restore a County Museum in County Longford.



Almost 30 years has passed since the last museum closed its doors due to structural issues, resulting in the artefacts, effects and archives therein going into storage, he outlined in a letter to the Leader.

Mr Sexton says it should still be on the agenda: In the intervening years much has been vocalised, yet nothing tangible or definitive has materialised towards finding a permanent home.



I would modestly suggest that the pursuit of a final and permanent home for a County Museum is a worthwhile and noble endeavour, so as to preserve and exhibit important cultural, artistic and historical artefacts and make it accessible for local and tourist alike, and the residual benefits that such an institution would bring to our community and County.



He urged local representatives to move on the project: I would sincerely hope that members of Longford County Council would progress beyond indolent and facile talk as to where a museum might be located, and progress to a stage of decisive action, incorporating an actual collaborative strategy and programme to bring a worthy and much overdue project to fruition.

Cllr Gery Warnock says the issue is very much a live one for the local authority: It's on the agenda. It's a part of the discussion centring around what will be the ultimate use of Connolly Barracks. I appreciate it is frustratingly slow, but it's tied in with the use for the main building.



The elected representative says the issue is still in the foreground: Nothing has been agreed on, bar the discussion. A lot of movement is taking place in respect of Connolly Barracks at present. The museum is certainly on the agenda as part of that, Cllr Warnock said.

The issue was discussed as part of a public meeting on the Longford Town Centre First Plan which took place in Longford library last Wednesday (January 16).



The Longford Town Centre First plan will include the restoration of vacant or derelict sites, development of connected public realm schemes, walkways, housing and the marketing of the town in general.
Storm Isha has brought with it its own havoc, but it isn't stopping, as more warnings have been issued by Met Eireann.

A status yellow wind warning for Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo and Sligo has been issued by Met Eireann, the very latest in weather warnings to hit the country.

Met Eireann reports that very strong and gusty westerly winds will hit those counties, with the potential impacts being:

* Large coastal waves with wave overtopping

* Difficult travelling conditions

* Debris, loose objects displaced

The warning is valid from 2:30am, this Monday January 22 until 7pm the same evening.

Next low pressure system moving close to Ireland tomorrow evening with potential for yellow level winds in parts and possible Orange level near coast in West and Northwest. Heavy rain tomorrow morning also. pic.twitter.com/9bVny7AwjK  Carlow Weather (@CarlowWeather) January 22, 2024

After enduring wild conditions from Storm Isha on Sunday with Status Red and Orange weather warnings in place for most counties, Ireland looks set to remain in the grips of wet and windy weather.

Forecasters at Met Eireann say "today [Monday] will remain breezy and blustery with some very strong gusts in the west and northwest.

In their outlook for the week, they say our weather will be "changeable with some further spells of wet and breezy or windy weather."

Looking to the weekend, Met Eireann predicts that it will remain "unsettled with further spells of rain and breezy conditions at times."
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: January 22 2024

Panico noted that he would urge Suffolk County Social Services not to pay rent for units that fail to meet New York State Building and Fire Safety codes.

On January 18, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Daniel J. Panico sent a letter to Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine offering the services of the Towns Building Inspectors to the Countys Department of Social Services (DSS) in Brookhaven Town.

In the letter, the Supervisor points out that the County does not inspect all Social Service rental units before sending the rental checks to the landlord. He also noted that Suffolk County doesnt even check with the Town to see if the units have a rental permit, which is required for all rentals in the Town of Brookhaven. He offered Towns building inspection service to no cost to the County.

He said, If the County is willing to agree to this arrangement and enforce the law already in place, the Town will do the inspections for the County free of charge.

Supervisor Panico stated that the Countys practice has impacted low to moderate income communities in the Town of Brookhaven, including Gordon Heights, North Bellport, Coram, Mastic and Mastic Beach. He said, anyone receiving Social Service assistance should not have to accept sub-standard housing that does not meet New York State Building and Fire Safety Codes. He also noted that he would urge Suffolk County Social Services not to pay rent for units that fail to meet New York State Building and Fire Safety codes.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: January 22 2024

Comptroller Phillips had the opportunity to congratulate and thank honoree and Holocaust survivor, Leo S. Ullman, for continuing to share his story and for giving lectures.

On Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips joined the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County (HMTC) at their Annual Tribute Dinner, in support of their mission to teach about the history and lessons of the Holocaust through education and community outreach.

Comptroller Phillips had the opportunity to congratulate and thank honoree and Holocaust survivor, Leo S. Ullman, for continuing to share his story and for giving lectures at universities, churches, synagogues and many civic associations as part of tolerance education.

Each year at the Annual Tribute Dinner, the HMTC pays tribute to Holocaust Survivors, and high-profile civic, community, and business leaders.
NYSERDA To Hold Public Open Houses On Long Island To Discuss New Yorks Offshore Wind Development

Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: January 22 2024

These public engagement opportunities support the responsible development of 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) will host public open houses to discuss New York's nation-leading efforts to advance offshore wind.

Representatives from NYSERDA, State and city agencies, and project developers will be available to discuss offshore wind energy development processes and the States portfolio of contracted and conditionally awarded projects.

These public engagement opportunities support the responsible development of 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035 as required by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

When/Where:

Long Island - Hempstead

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Hofstra University

Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center

Hempstead, NY 11549

12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. ET and

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. ET

Long Island - Long Beach

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Long Beach Public Library

111 W Park Ave, Long Beach, NY 11561

6:00 p.m.  9:00 p.m. ET

Who:

Representatives from:

NYSERDA

State and city agencies
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: January 22 2024

The three bullsnow named Steve, Artie, and Robertwere found alongside 10 freezing piglets without access to food and water on a vacant property.

Less than a week after Carlos Lauro, 76, of Riverhead, pleaded guilty to fatally shooting a German Shepherd with a rifle, three bulls found hidden on an adjacent property have found a home at Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve in Montague, New Jersey.

The three bullsnow named Steve, Artie, and Robertwere found alongside 10 freezing piglets without access to food and water on a vacant property adjoining the slaughterhouse after rescuers accessed the property to remove a domestic goose who escaped Carlos Lauro's property; but their harrowing adventure was far from over. This Saturday, it appears someone tried to heist the bulls by cutting a large hole in the fence to an adjoining preserve. Humane Long Island located the bulls in time to corral them back to Lauro's property where they will be urgently moved to their forever home at Tamerlaine on Tuesday, January 23, at 12pm before another attempt can be made at their abduction.

"From being slated for slaughter to being hidden from authorities and then nearly heisted, the harrowing adventure of these three sweet bullsnow named Steve, Artie, and Robertfinds a happy ending at Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve, a 336-acre vegan sanctuary where they will be loved and never eaten," said John Di Leonardo, anthrozoologist and Executive Director of Humane Long Island, who rescued nearly 100 other animals, including piglets, goats, chickens, ducks, geese, a sheep, and a bunny from the property. "If the rescue of these sweet bulls or the deaths of dogs Blitzkrieg and Cranky move you, Humane Long Island urges you to reconsider the animals on your plate and go vegan. When it comes to the capacity to suffer and feel pain and fear, dogs are no different from chickens, goats, and cows."

"In light of recent distressing revelations, our hearts ache upon discovering the immense suffering and loss of innocent lives inflicted by Carlos Lauro. While the shocking nature of these findings saddens us, it underscores the pressing need for action. With nearly 100 legal slaughterhouses and wet markets still operating in the New York City area, it is imperative that we intensify our efforts to put an end to the unnecessary anguish endured by animals and the associated health risks posed to NYC residents," said Gabrielle Stubbert, Executive Director of Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve. "In this challenging moment, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Humane Long Island and BEAST for their unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals. Their tireless work exemplifies their dedication to positively impacting our community and bringing about meaningful change."

Humane Long Island is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the leading animal advocacy organization on Long Island, having stopped a slaughterhouse from opening in Islip and a sordid mall aquarium chain from expanding into Oyster Bay, amicably retired all the animals at a Malverne petting zoo to reputable sanctuaries, and stopped animal circuses and wild animal acts at fairs throughout the island. Humane Long Island reported this unlicensed slaughterhouse to New York State Agriculture & Markets in 2022. Over the past week, the charity has removed nearly 100 animals, including three cows, 10 freezing piglets, a dozen waterfowl, and dozens of sick and injured chickens, sheep, goats, and a bunny from Carlos Lauro's slaughterhouse and an adjacent property.

Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for abused, neglected, and otherwise discarded farmed animals. Established by Peter Nussbaum and Gabrielle Stubbert in 2014, Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve was founded on the idea that rescuing animals from industrial agriculture and introducing them to the public is one of the most powerful ways to create positive change for animals and the world in which we live. Each animal rescued becomes an ambassador for his or her species, and by sharing their stories through our educational programs, Tamerlaine Sanctuary works to change the perception of farmed animals from food to individual beings with unique personalities and desires.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: January 22 2024

National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Award, Part Of The Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability And Accessibility Accelerator Program, To Help State Further Climate Plan Goals.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York State Department of Transportation has been awarded $13 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administrations Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program to enhance the reliability of electric vehicle charging ports across the State. The award is to repair or replace broken or non-operational electric vehicle charging ports. The award is part of the approximately $148.8 million in funding for 24 applicants in 20 states, including 14 State Departments of Transportation and 10 local entities under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Award, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

New York State is the national leader when it comes to investing in innovation to combat the plague of global climate change, Governor Hochul said. This federal award will enable us to keep our existing electric vehicle charging infrastructure in a state of good repair, while we continue to make investments in the Empire States electric vehicle future. The green revolution is upon us, and New York is once again leading the way.

Through this program, New York State will ensure that its publicly accessible direct current fast chargers (DCFC) and Level 2 chargers are in proper working order and available to motorists across the state. There are currently more than 10,000 publicly accessible Level 2 and DCFC ports in the State, which electric vehicle drivers rely on every day.

New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will complete the repair and replacement of charging stations by entering into a sub-agreement to administer the funding with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), which in turn will enter into agreements with charging providers or other entities that own charging stations. NYSERDAs sub-agreements will require that stations receiving funding under this grant program must be operational within 12 months of the award to NYSDOT, and that stations must remain operational for at least five years.

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program was established as a part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021 and includes $5 billion toward building standardized fast chargers along interstate highways. New York is expected to receive $175 million over five years but must submit updated plans to the FHWA each year on how it intends to spend the money in order to receive its annual allotment. In October, Governor Hochul announced that the FHWA had approved New York States updated plan. This $13 million is additional to the $175 million New York was already slated to receive.

The NEVI program contains a 10 percent set aside to allow grants to be made to states and localities requiring additional assistance to deploy EV charging infrastructure strategically. Reflecting the need to make the current EV charging network more reliable, the first round of funding made available in this set aside from the NEVI program will focus on repairing or replacing non-operational EV chargers.

Repair and replace projects can include hardware, permitting, service upgrade and labor costs up to repair or replace electric vehicle equipment, ensuring the equipment remains operational for at least five years.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said, The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law is already supercharging new electric vehicle charging stations across New York, and this new $13 million in federal funding will help keep our existing EV charging stations in tip-top shape. Electric vehicles are booming in popularity, and for this industry to succeed we need to make charging your car as easy and convenient as possible, and this will help ensure charging stations can continue to operate reliably for all. By building out our states charging capabilities, we are boosting our economy, combatting climate change, and increasing public health for all communities. I am proud to work with Governor Hochul to expand our nations network of EV chargers to drive us towards a cleaner electric future.

Representative Paul Tonko said, The electric vehicle investments I pushed to advance in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will have long lasting benefits  slashing emissions, creating good paying, quality jobs, and securing a stronger, more resilient economy. New York State is poised to lead the nation in this growing industry, and Im eager to help further that effort and put us on the path to curb climate change and steer our nation towards a better, brighter, clean energy future.

Representative Adriano Espaillat said, I commend Governor Hochul on todays announcement allocating federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped pass in Congress, to support communities throughout New York as they transition to EV infrastructure to encourage more sustainable transportation solutions around our state. Clean transportation is the future, and it is critical we support and provide the necessary resources to ensure these options remain viable and accessible for many years to come.

Representative Joe Morelle said, Improving the reliability of New Yorks electric vehicle charging stations is crucial for the transition to cleaner fuels and widespread EV adoption. Im proud to have secured federal funding to make this project possible and appreciate Governor Hochuls dedication and commitment to modernizing our transportation system with this investment in sustainability.

Representative Pat Ryan said, As more people buy electric vehicles, we need to make sure our charging infrastructure keeps up with demand. By investing in this technology today, we are positioning our community to be a leader, both environmentally and economically, for decades to come. I was proud to lead the electrification of the UCAT fleet as County Executive  this is a crucial next step to making New York a sustainable and thriving home for future generations.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, With the investments Governor Hochul is making in electric vehicle infrastructure, we are making it easier and more efficient for consumers across New York State to not only own an electric vehicle but have multiple options to keep these vehicles in good working order. New Yorks climate goals are ambitious, but we have to continue to think big in the face of global climate change. Every piece of the puzzle matters when building the largest climate-fighting arsenal in the nation, and todays announcement is a testament to New Yorks enduring commitment to meeting its nation-leading climate goals.

NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, NYSERDA looks forward to strengthening access to reliable EV charging for New Yorkers through this federal funding, so a charge is available when needed across the state. Keeping our infrastructure modern, and strong, encourages more clean cars on our roadways to meet the States zero-emission and climate goals while making the air cleaner in our communities.

New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, New York has developed extensive electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout the State and we want to ensure outstanding performance for years to come. This federal grant will help support future maintenance needs and ease the transition to a fully electrified transportation system that will promote a better and more sustainable future for all New Yorkers.

The Repair and Replacement funding opportunity will also allow New York State to continue to build upon its extensive work to date to expand electric vehicle ownership. New York State's more than $2.7 billion investment in electrifying its transportation sector is vital to meet the State's sweeping climate and clean energy plan. Reducing carbon emissions and pollution from vehicles creates cleaner air and healthier communities, particularly in underserved areas. A range of initiatives grow access to electric vehicles and improve clean transit for all New Yorkers, including EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, the Drive Clean Rebate, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP) and federal funding under the NEVI Program.

Last month, Governor Hochul announced that New Yorks first high-speed chargers for electric vehicles funded through President Bidens historic NEVI program are now operating in the city of Kingston, in Ulster County in the Hudson Valley. This station is one of the first in the nation to be installed through the NEVI program.

New York State's Nation-Leading Climate Plan

New York State's nation-leading climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nations most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is on a path to achieving a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economywide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York's unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $46 billion in 65 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the State, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives, and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 170,000 jobs in New Yorks clean energy sector as of 2022 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New Yorks climate action with 400 registered and more than 100 certified Climate Smart Communities, nearly 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the States largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the State to help target air pollution and combat climate change.
Int'l community reaffirms support for China's cause of reunification

Xinhua) 08:04, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Chinese carmaker BYD said it will invest 100 billion yuan ($14 billion) to develop smart features as the focus within the automotive industry is shifting from electrified vehicles to intelligent ones.

Wang Chuanfu, chairman and president of BYD, announced the plan last week when he unveiled the company's smart vehicle strategy. He didn't specify a time frame for the investment or provide more details.

At the same event, BYD launched its smart car system, called Xuanji, saying that it serves as its vehicles' brain and neural system. Coupled with sensors and other hardware, it enables vehicles to perceive, decide, control and execute.

"Smart vehicles are much more than smart onboard features and smart driving," said Wang.

The company said this latest progress is the result of its independent research and development strength and its solid foundation in electrification, which is the basis of smart vehicles.

BYD has more than 90,000 employees in its research and development departments, and more than 4,000 of them are working on smart driving.

Wang said smart driving will come as standard in BYD cars that cost more than 300,000 yuan. It will be available as an upgrade option for vehicles priced at more than 200,000 yuan.

Advanced driving-assist systems are becoming almost a must for new vehicles in China.

Statistics from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology show that more than 40 percent of new vehicles sold in the first half of 2023 had driving-assist features.

A McKinsey survey in China in 2023 shows that 76 percent of the respondents said they would like automatic parking and 60 percent fancy autonomous driving in urban traffic.

Startups, such as Nio and Xpeng, and traditional carmakers are strengthening their competitive edge in this area.

BMW and Mercedes-Benz won Level 3 test permits in Shanghai and Beijing, respectively, last year.

At last week's event, BYD also went over other non-driving features that it is looking to add to enhance drivers' experiences.

The Yangwang U8 SUV, which has a price tag of around 1 million yuan, will be available with a vehicle-mounted drone and its own housing case.

In some of its other models, BYD is adding palm-print motion sensor technology to enable drivers to open vehicle doors by waving at them.




Since wedding season began, 40-year-old Hanoian Thanh Danh cannot recall how many wedding invitations hes received in the form of QR codes.

Whenever he receives such impersonal invitations, he never attends the events, but still sends congratulatory money as a gift.

Danh said he doesnt feel comfortable receiving these QR codes, which are encrypted with bank account information. He feels like hes obligated to send money, and more than anything else, he feels that the bride and the groom dont respect their guests.

He recalls one wedding he attended at which guests were passing around a card with a QR code on it before the reception even started. He found it distasteful. "This is no different than going to a restaurant and splitting the bill afterward," Danh said.

A sample wedding invitation featuring a printed QR code and map code. Photo by T.H.V.

However, not everyone find the codes as impersonal and robotic as Danh even though many do, with some going as far as to call them "insulting, disrespectful and dystopian."

Le Lan, 30 years old, from the capitals Ha Dong District, Hanoi, finds wedding invitations with QR codes quite common, with two out of three invitations she received recently being of this type. Guests can use their banking app to scan the QR code and send the couple the amount of congratulatory money they want, all in less than a minute. After the wedding, the bride and groom can account for all of the transactions from their app.

"Ive attended many weddings where QR codes are displayed right next to the congratulatory money box or on the banquet table. I find it quite convenient: you dont have to ask the bride and the groom for their bank account, and theres no need to prepare the envelopes, which can also easily get lost," Lan said.

Tuan Dzung from Ho Chi Minh City also finds these wedding invitations with QR codes a convenient method in this modern life. The 27-year-old man has been living far from home for a long time. Due to geographical distance, its difficult for him to come back every time his friends get married.

In the past, he had to ask for a favor from different people to hand the bride and the groom his congratulatory money in his stead, not wanting to ask the bride and groom for their bank account information. However, he hasnt always managed to find someone, so hes sometimes had to wait until the next time they can meet up with the couple to give them his gift.

When he gets married, Dzung plans to have a QR code printed on his wedding invitations as well to make it easy for his friends who live far away.

Like Dzung, many people nowadays are in favor including bank account information along with wedding invitations, and most providers in the industry offer this service. A social media community specializing in wedding invitation printing with 100,000 members averages more than 30 posts a day advertising customized printing services, most of which include QR code printing.

Mai Anh, owner of a Hanoi wedding-related service provider business on Nguyen Trai Street, Thanh Xuan District, said demand for QR code printing has increased recently. Most of her clients are young people from the capital city and neighboring provinces.

"In the past, couples were still hesitant for fear of being seen as greedy, but couples now are more open-minded. A QR code makes it easier for wedding guests and simplifies wedding organization," Mai Anh said.

Young couples increasingly print bank account numbers on wedding invitations for guest convenience. Photo by VnExpress/ Hai Hien

Psychologist Nguyen Thi Tam from Hanoi believes that this trend is happening because young people tend to follow whatever their friends are doing. This also suits modern society quite well since nearly 75% of Vietnamese adults have a bank account and regularly engage in bank transfers.

According to the State Bank of Vietnam, in the first seven months of 2023, transactions via QR code increased by 124.15% in quantity and 16.12% in value compared to the same period in 2022.

"In my opinion however, despite its advantages, QR codes on wedding invitations dont suit Vietnamese customs and traditions," Tam said.

Cultural expert Nguyen Hung Vi, former lecturer at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi National University, said wedding money is meant to represent solidarity. The idea is that the community joins hands in helping a young couple build their new life by materialistic means.

"Both bank transfer and QR code are new ways of transferring money in the modern world. There is nothing wrong about them if they work for specific contexts and circumstances, especially for those who have geographical differences and are unable to attend the wedding in person," Vi said.

However, Vi does believe that printing QR codes on wedding invitations or backdrops is not exactly tasteful and might not be appropriate for Vietnams cultural landscape.

Taking Thanh Danhs example, psychologist Nguyen Thi Tam believes that many people, as they receive wedding invitations printed with QR codes, think transferring money is a must  like a debt to be paid  hence feel uncomfortable about both the wedding, and even the bride and groom themselves.

Ngoc Minh, 23 years old, from Bac Ninh, originally planned to print bank account information her wedding invitation, but she was advised otherwise by the print shop, where staff members mentioned that the method was not traditional.

So, Minh decided to send two types of invitations: one with a QR code for her friends and colleagues, and another version without a QR code for her parents guests (to avoid negative gossip at the wedding either way).

To avoid putting themselves in a tight spot, Tam advises couples who are planning their wedding to put themselves in the guests shoes and evaluate the situation carefully, instead of making decisions entirely based on their personal preferences.

"Wedding money is inherently a sensitive matter, there is no need to make it into a discomforting thing that can potentially upset or hurt your guests feelings. If youre inviting them, do so politely and gracefully," Tam said.
Republican candidate Ron DeSantis gives support to former president Donald Trump after dropping out of race

DeSantis on Sunday announced his decision to quit the race to become the republican candidate for the 2024 presidential elections.

DeSantis on Sunday announced his decision to quit the race to become the republican candidate for the 2024 presidential elections.  Photo credit: Giorgio Viera/AFP

DeSantis on Sunday announced his decision to quit the race to become the republican candidate for the 2024 presidential elections.  Photo credit: Giorgio Viera/AFP

Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2020 presidential race on Sunday, two days before the New Hampshire primary, where he badly trailed Republican frontrunner Donald Trump and Nikki Haley.

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 a video released Sunday afternoon on X, formerly Twitter.

DeSantis said he would back the eventual nominee and said that Trump is preferable to Haley or President Joe Biden.

New polling from CNN and the University of New Hampshire shows DeSantis earning just 6% of the states Republican vote, whereas Trump has 50% and Haley has 39%.

Some donors wanted him to preserve political capital, so he could potentially run for president again in 2028. DeSantis is only 45 years old, and donors see potential for him to run for 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 eschewed 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, as well as 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 staffers, 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 caucus, 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, Never Back Down laid off staff and DeSantis moved most of his team to South Carolina, largely ceding the New Hampshire contest to Trump and Haley.
"The ideal candidate will be someone who can chant, sing, stomp and cheer, and ensure the roar of fans will leave the Blues trembling in their footy boots this February," the listing reads. "This Hype Queen/King will work closely with the Fijian Drua, owning the pre-game hype and generating buzz with the crowd."
First homemade radar satellite to go into space next year

An artist's impression of Vietnamese radar satellite LOTUSat-1 in space. Photo by Vietnam National Space Center

Vietnam will launch its first ever indigenous weather satellite early next year to provide early warnings against natural disasters.

LOTUSat-1, which is being built with assistance from Japanese engineers, is expected to be completed in March, Le Xuan Huy, deputy general director of Vietnam National Space Center, said.

It is part of the Natural Disaster and Climate Change Prevention project undertaken by the center.

Fabrication of the satellite began in September 2012 at the center, which is in the Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park in Hanoi.

The satellite will use a sensor that uses radio waves to observe the Earth, and thus function independently of a light source.

That means it can function 24x7, a clear advantage over satellites using optical sensors, which can only function in daylight.

Huy said radar satellites can take pictures in all weather conditions, cloudy, foggy or low-light.

The 600-kilogram satellite will have an image resolution of one meter.

It will gather information about storms and other phenomena that affect Vietnam every year.

The satellite will cover the whole of the Vietnamese land mass and help reduce the damage caused by natural disasters by 10%.

The ground control system for the launch will be completed by September this year at the hi-tech park.

To operate the satellite, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) signed an agreement with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) last November.

This cooperation agreement between VAST and JAXA will be the basis for the two sides to share experiences in operating and exploiting LOTUSat-1 satellites in orbit to improve the efficiency of using the Vietnam National Space Center; contributing to promoting scientific and technological cooperation between Vietnam and Japan, tightening the comprehensive strategic partnership that has just been established between the two countries.

With the support of JAXA, VAST engineers have built three micro-satellites, PicoDragon for earth observation and Nano Dragon and MicroDragon for maritime observation.

All three were launched into orbit from Japan in 2013, 2019 and 2021, respectively.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Flurries and a few snow showers throughout the day. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 30%..

Tonight

Variably cloudy with snow showers. Low 27F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.
Two Massachusetts residents were taken to a hospital Sunday after they crashed snowmobiles into trees during separate incidents in New Hampshire, according to the states Fish and Game Department.

Both crashes happened in Pittsburg  a town of about 830 people, according to state data  that makes up the upper tip of the state where it borders Canada, the department said in a news release.

The Fish and Game Department received a call about the first crash just after 10:35 a.m. on Sunday, it said. At the scene, conservations officers found that 47-year-old Waltham resident Pasquale Carbone had been riding a snowmobile on a trail when he failed to make a left turn, crashed into a tree and was thrown from the vehicle.

Carbone was seriously injured in the crash, but his wounds were not life-threatening, the department said. Other snowmobile riders stopped and helped him after the crash and called 911.

The second crash happened around 2 p.m. when 59-year-old Taunton resident Paula Sylvia failed to slow down at a trail intersection and hit a tree, the Fish and Game Department said. At the time, she was riding with friends.

Both Carbone and Sylvia were taken to Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook to be treated for injuries, but the department did not specify how seriously Sylvia was injured.

The investigation into the cause of these crashes are still ongoing but Fish and Game Conservation Officers would like to remind snowmobile operators to always operate within their abilities and wear the proper safety equipment, the Fish and Game Department wrote in the release.
The Greg Hill Foundation has a fundraiser for the Wilbraham police officer injured in a shootout on Saturday.

As of Monday morning, the fundraiser had raised over $2,000 of its $5,000 goal. The Greg Hill Foundation will match up to $5,000 of the money that is raised, the fundraiser said.

The officer was responding to a call at 11 Old Carriage Dr. at 8:40 p.m. on Saturday, according to State Police. A suspect was barricaded in the home on the cul-de-sac and officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect.

Police later identified the suspect as Michael Ortega, 53, who was taken into custody after a four-hour standoff. Ortega is being charged with assault with intent. to murder ans assault with a dangerous weapon, according to Wilbraham Police Chief Edward Lennon.

The injured officer, age 29, has not been identified. He was one of three police officers who exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who fired from inside the home and then barricaded himself in the home, according to Lennon.

The officer was brought to the hospital with serious injuries and is currently in stable condition, Lennon said.

According to the fundraiser, it is anticipated that the officer will require surgeries and have a long road to recovery.

A view of the house at 11 Old Carriage Drive in Wilbraham on Sunday morning. (Sebastian Restrepo photo)Sebastian Restrepo / Special to The Republican

With the standoff nearing four hours without the suspect exiting the home or surrendering, commanders for the Tactical Operations Team decided to use 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, Massachusetts State Police spokesperson David Procopio said.

The video feed revealed the suspect inside a front breezeway with gunshot injuries, he said.

The Tactical Team troopers ordered the suspect not to move and entered the home, and were able to place him in custody. They also seized a handgun and ammunition that was next to the suspect, Procopio said.

The suspect was conscious when police stormed the home. He was treated at the scene by tactical medics from the University of Massachusetts Memorial Hospital who work with the operations team, and then taken to the hospital by ambulance under police guard, Procopio said.

Old Carriage Drive is a small cul-de-sac with eight homes on it. No. 11 is a brown two-story home with an attached two-car garage set on nearly 2 acres of land at the end of the street. On Sunday morning, footsteps could be seen in the snow on the garage roof from the previous nights escape.

Deed records show Ortega purchased the home, which is valued at about $444,000, in 2018. There is a large recreational vehicle parked in the driveway.

An aerial view of 11 Old Carriage Drive in Wilbraham on Sunday morning. (Sebastian Restrepo photo)Sebastian Restrepo / Special to The Republican

According to neighbors, Michael Ortega was not friendly and would frequently call police on residents who had guests parked in the street or if anyone played music after 9 p.m.

One couple, who asked not to be named, said Ortega seemed to be angry and tense all the time and didnt get along with his neighbors. He had multiple surveillance cameras posted in all directions around the house.

He talked a lot about shooting animals, especially dogs that might enter his yard, the couple said.

One animal in particular that upset him was a neighborhood labrador retriever that apparently wandered into Ortegas yard one afternoon. He called police, telling officers that it attacked his family and described it as being very threatening and vicious, although the couple described the animal as very docile and friendly.

Orgeta told neighbors he had a second home and a business in Jackson, Tennessee. There is a Michael Ortega listed as the principal of Metrology Consulting Services, in Huntingdon, which is near Jackson.

The shooting is under investigation by Wilbraham police, the Massachusetts State Police and Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gullunis office, Lennon said.

Law enforcement officials referred all inquiries to Lennon.

Reporting from Irene Rotondo, Jeanette DeForge, Dave Canton, Luis Fieldman and Susannah Sudborough was used in this report.
A Stoughton man the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office described as a repeat sex trafficker was indicted last week by a federal grand jury on new sex trafficking charges, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Marvin Pompilus, 39, has been indicted on three counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; one count of attempted sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, the U.S. Attorneys Office said in a press release.
A California woman was arrested and charged with shoplifting thousands of dollars worth of Stanley Quencher tumbler water bottles from a retail store near Sacramento, according to police.

The incident occurred Jan. 17, when the 23-year-old woman was reported for taking a shopping cart full of Stanley water bottles without paying for them, according to a news release from the Roseville Police Department. The woman refused to stop for staff at the store and loaded her car with the stolen merchandise, which totaled 65 Stanley water bottles with a value of nearly $2,500, according to the release.

She left the scene, but an officer spotted the woman entering Highway 65 and initiated a traffic stop. After officers discovered the stolen merchandise, the woman was arrested and charged with grand theft.

Stanley tumblers have created a sales frenzy both in stores and online as the popular water bottle has become a viral sensation. Stanley Quencher 40-ounce water bottles are available for sale online for $45 at the companys website, but select versions of the water bottle are being re-sold online for hundreds of dollars.

While Stanley Quenchers are all the rage, we strongly advise against turning to crime to fulfill your hydration habits, Roseville PD said in the release.
Thich Truc Thai Minh, head monk of the Ba Vang Pagoda in Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam. Photo by VnExpress/Viet Tuan

Thich Truc Thai Minh, an abbot in northern Vietnam, received a warning from the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha for exhibiting what he claimed as the "Buddha hair," severely impacting the Buddhist faith.

Besides the warning, Minh must also repent before the standing management committee of the Sangha.

"Abbot Thich Truc Thai Minh must guarantee that if similar violations continue, which makes society lose faith in Buddhism and affects the reputation of the Sangha, he will be excommunicated and has his position as head monk revoked," the Sangha said.

Ba Vang Pagoda in Quang Ninh Province has been banned from organizing international exchange events for a year.

The Sangha said the pagoda had exhibited what it claimed as a "Buddha hair sarira", which was met with criticisms from the public and sparked controversial debates. The event had "severely impacted faith in Buddhism and the reputation of the Sangha."

Ba Vang Pagoda reported that during a visit to Buddhist relic sites in Myanmar in December 2023, Buddhists from the pagoda observed the "Buddhist hair sarira" at the Parami Monastery and the Parami International Buddhist Sarari Museum.

Monks at Ba Vang then invited U Wepulla, the head monk of the Parami monastery, along with other monks from Myanmar, to attend a Buddhist ceremony and bring the "Buddhist hair sarira" to Vietnam.

The object was reportedly brought to the pagoda on Dec. 22, before being returned to Myanmar on Dec. 27.

The fact that Minh traveled abroad for religious exchanges, and invited foreign monks to participate in events at Ba Vang without informing the Sangha is also considered a violation.
Editors note: This article has been corrected to reflect the nuance that the Massachusetts Ballot Commissions decision to dismiss the challenges does not ensure that former President Donald Trumps name will appear on the primary ballot; it will be up to the U.S. Supreme Court to decide if he will be included.

Former President Donald Trump may be allowed to appear on the ballot in the Massachusetts Republican primary this year despite multiple lawsuits trying to keep him off of it after a state commission determined it does not have jurisdiction over the issue.

The complaints sought to remove Trumps name from the ballot due to the events of the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, citing a section of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution that prohibits the election of anyone who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion.

Donald Trump violated his oath of office and incited a violent insurrection that attacked the U.S. Capitol, threatened the assassination of the Vice President and congressional leaders, and disrupted the peaceful transfer of power for the first time in our nations history, Ron Fein, legal director at Free Speech For People, one of the groups which filed a suit earlier this month, said at the time.

However, the Massachusetts Ballot Law Commission announced in its decision Monday that it had limited jurisdiction over challenges to presidential candidates, and therefore dismissed the objections.

The U.S. Supreme Court said earlier this month it will decide whether Trump can be kept off the ballot in response to Trumps appeal of Colorados move to bar him from the election.

John Bonifaz, president of Free Speech for People, said the group intends to appeal the Massachusetts ruling.

Several states have had similar challenges to Trumps inclusion on the ballot, including Maine, Colorado and Minnesota. On Dec. 28, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows announced that the former president would not be placed on the ballot, a decision which Trump has appealed.

Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin has said his office will leave the matter to the Supreme Court so as not to deprive voters of their right to cast a vote.

The decision should lie with the voters, according to the Mass. GOP.

I applaud the Massachusetts Ballot Commission for its decision to allow voters to choose their nominee for president, Amy Carnevale, chair of the Massachusetts Republican Party, said in a press release emailed Monday night. The ill-conceived effort to remove a presidential candidate from the ballot would have undercut our system of democracy. The decision of who Massachusetts should choose as the Republican nominee for President of the United States will now rely squarely with the voters, as it should.

The Massachusetts presidential primary will be held March 5.
An artificially generated robocall of President Joe Biden dismissing voters from casting their ballots on Tuesday, the day of the 2024 New Hampshire presidential primary, is being investigated by New Hampshires Election Law Unit, according to New Hampshire Attorney Generals office in a statement Monday.

The message was sent out on Jan. 21 and told voters your vote makes a difference in November, not this Tuesday. Officials said the message was spoofed as it was sent by the treasurer of a political committee that has been supporting the write-in efforts for Biden.

The content of the message told recipients who wanted to be taken off the call list to call the number belonging to the message sender, the statement said.

These messages appear to be an unlawful attempt to disrupt the New Hampshire presidential primary election and to suppress New Hampshire voters, the statement read. New Hampshire voters should disregard the content of this message entirely. Voting in the New Hampshire presidential primary election does not preclude a voter from additionally voting in the November general election.

Those who receive the message are encouraged to send an email to the Department of Justice Election Law Unit and identify the date and time the call or message was received, the origin of the call or message, the content of the call or message and any other relevant information.
The battle for student loan forgiveness continues, with some good news for some borrowers.

Recently, the Biden administration announced that it is canceling $5 billion in debt for 74,000 borrowers, some of whom have worked 10 years in public service sector jobs.

The announcement said that of the 74,000 borrowers that were approved for relief on Jan. 19, nearly 44,000 are nurses, teachers, firefighters and other individuals who earned forgiveness after 10 years of public service. Another 30,000 of them are borrowers who have been in repayment for at least 20 years but never received the relief they earned through income-driven repayment plans.

Biden also added that his administration was able to come through with relief due to fixes we made to broken student loan programs that were preventing borrowers from getting relief they were entitled to under law.

This new round of student loan forgiveness brings the total number of people who have had debt canceled under the Biden administration to over 3.7 million, according to a statement from the White House.

This all comes after the Supreme Court denied the White Houses student loan debt relief plan last year, which sparked the White House to pursue smaller relief programs, NBC News reported.

We are continuing to pursue an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible, Biden said in the statement.
ROCHESTER, N.H  Former President Donald Trump praised onetime rival Ron DeSantis and slammed Nikki Haley as he looked to further consolidate his hold over the Granite States Republican faithful in the run-up to Tuesdays first-in-the-nation primary.

Id like ... to congratulate Ron DeSantis, hes a really terrific person, Trump said of the Florida governor, who suspended his flagging White House bid just hours before Trump took the microphone here on Sunday night. He left the campaign trail at 3 p.m., and he endorsed me. He was very gracious. I appreciate that.

Trump told the capacity crowd that he [looked] forward to working with Ron to defeat [President Joe Biden]. Hes put our country at great peril.

Trumps conciliatory tone toward DeSantis, who was running in the single-digits in public polls in the Granite State, was markedly different from the one he took during a rally in Manchester, N.H., on Saturday.

You notice I havent mentioned the name of Ron DeSanctimonious yet, Trump said, according to The Guardian. I think hes gone.

Trump spent most of a rambling speech attacking Haley, the former South Carolina governor, who remains his chief rival, dismissing his onetime United Nations ambassador as a globalist, running with the backing of Democrats, who wanted her to win because shes easy to beat.

If you want a losing candidate who puts America last, vote for Nikki Haley, Trump told the crowd, as he exhorted them to turn out on Tuesday.

This Tuesday the people of New Hampshire are going to speak loud ... theyre going to send a message to [Biden] and his crooked [Justice Department], send them a signal that were coming for them this November, he said.

Hundreds of people waited for hours before the rally at the Rochester Opera House in the citys downtown, with two lines snaking down the block outside the building. Shortly after 5 p.m., organizers said the building had reached capacity, and attendees shivering in the cold, were turned away at the door.

Trump, who has faced questions about his own age and fitness for office, attacked Biden, arguing that the Democratic president was unsuited for another term in the White House.

Former President Jimmy Carter is happiest  his administration was brilliant by comparison, Trump said.

But even as he attacked Biden, Trump also cast him as a strongman intent on destroying his candidacy.

Biden and his thugs are desperate to stop us because they know we are the only ones who can stop them, Trump told the crowd, describing the current president as a threat to democracy.

The situation on the ground

While independent voters remain in play and are expected to play a pivotal role on Tuesday, Trumps support among his core voters remained strong on Sunday.

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.

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 two-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.

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.

Trump is scheduled to rally Monday at 9 p.m. at the Margate Resort in Laconia, N.H., according to the campaigns website.

The crowd lines up early outside former President Donald Trump's rally in Rochester, N.H., on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024 (MassLive photo by John L. Micek).John L. Micek

Nothing sticks

Around 1 p.m., three hours before the doors officially opened, a crowd already had gathered on Wakefield Street outside the venue. One woman shouted for the crowd to move back from the doors, reminding rally-goers that hours remained before they could go inside.

Trump paraphernalia, from hats and banners to, cannily, given the cold weather, beanies and scarves, already were on offer for rally-goers. An RV, emblazoned with pro-Trump slogans, with the former presidents speeches blaring from a speaker, was pulled hard against the curb in front of the venue.

An RV parked outside the site of former President Donald Trump's rally in Rochester, N.H., on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024 (MassLive photo by John L. Micek).John L. Micek

After hearing about Saturdays capacity crowd, Jack Gordon, 20, and his friends, Brayden Silver, also 20, and Eddie Towlson, 21, of Seabrook, N.H., werent taking any chances. They arrived hours early and were tailgating in the parking lot of a nearby bank. Classic rock, including Blue Oyster Cults Dont Fear the Reaper, provided the soundtrack.

Gordon, who recalled being on-hand for Trumps first campaign in the Granite State in 2016, said hed be casting his first presidential ballot in Tuesdays canvass.

I want to hear his plans for the next four years, he said. And how hes going to change course from the five years before that. We had the pandemic, but the quality of life was better [under Trump].

Silver said he wanted to hear Trumps plans to bring us together and keep us out of wars.

Despite a general ambivalence among younger voters over Trumps and Bidens ages, and worries that theyll stay away from the polls in 2024, Towlson said he wanted to know that were in good hands, under another four years of possible Trump leadership.

I want everyone to be safe, he said. I think [Trump] can do it.

All three shrugged off the criminal cases hanging over Trumps candidacy.

Hes like Slick Rick. Nothing sticks, Gordon quipped.

People arent going to put up with this ...

Hours later, Trump dismissed the battery of criminal cases brought against him, arguing, without evidence that the U.S. Dept. of Justice was corrupt, while accusing the current administration, again without evidence, of weaponizing law enforcement against him.

These are corrupt people, Trump said, repeating the false claim that the 2020 election was stolen.

Trump, at one point, compared himself to notorious 1920s crime boss, Al Capone, who was finally sent to prison in 1931 on federal tax charges, saying, he was indicted more than the mafia chieftain.

If he had dinner with you  he was equal opportunity  If he didnt like you, hed kill you, Trump said. This guy was indicted less than me. Because I said the election, it was rigged. And it was. We have the proof.

Outside the rally, merchandise vendors sold t-shirts featuring his mug shot after he surrendered to authorities in Fulton County, Ga., where Trump faces election interference charges.

While some merchandise took shots at President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, others featured Trump's mug shot, the trademark "Make America Great Again" slogan  and a cow wearing the red "MAGA" hat. Ryan Mancini/MassLive.Ryan Mancini

Most supporters did not respond to questions from MassLive, though one Rochester resident shared his thoughts.

I heard him at [the University of New Hampshire], it was a good speech, Ron Toth, 62, who identified himself as self-employed, told MassLive.

Toth said he was worried about the whole country and said its going to hell, and expressed concerns about war here or the United States funding wars across the globe.

People arent going to put up with this sh*t for much longer, he said. Immigration, the economy, everything this [Biden] administration has done. Its all unconstitutional, and people dont want it. Its turning people against each other, whole families.

Supporters murmured or hollered about the news that DeSantis dropped out of the race. Ahead of the rally, Trump said in a statement obtained by the Washington Post that he was honored to have DeSantis backing him. The former president in the same statement called on all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to beat Biden.

According to the Post, discussions about DeSantis exit from the race started last week, even as the campaign said it was training its sights on South Carolina, which holds its primary on Feb. 24. A person close to the campaign told the newspaper that internal polling showed DeSantis was on pace to finish in single digits in New Hampshire, which could have made his withdrawal all the more embarrassing.

In her own statement, obtained by The Hill, a publication that covers Washington, Haley said she wished DeSantis well.

 So far, only one state has voted. Half of its votes went to Donald Trump, and half did not, she said. 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.

Haley was scheduled to rally in Exeter, N.H., at 7 p.m. on Sunday, opposite the former presidents rally here.

But in Rochester, comments from those in line suggested it was a smart move for DeSantis to drop out, with one man saying its smart if you dont want to look like an idiot.

A van belonging to the Republican anti-Trump organization The Lincoln Project was booed by Trump supporters in Rochester, N.H. Ryan Mancini/MassLive.Ryan Mancini

Trumps motorcade received cheers from supporters as it rolled past the venue, including those who did not make it inside due to full attendance inside.

Cheers changed to boos as a van with screens on its trailer belonging to the Republican anti-Trump organization The Lincoln Project, also drove past the venue.
When Worcester Schools Superintendent Rachel Monarrez embarked on a city-wide listening tour at the start of her tenure last school year, one phrase she heard multiple times from community members was Worcester was a district of schools, not a school district.

Under a new strategic plan for the districts coming years, Monarrez hopes to bring the city schools under one cohesive, modernized vision, she said in an interview Monday.

The plan includes goals of improving communication with parents and caregivers, expanding course offerings, closing an opportunity gap for underserved students and retaining educators.

Dubbed Our Promise to the Future, the strategic plan passed the Worcester School Committee in December.

A better-connected district

A central piece, Monarrez told MassLive at a meeting Monday morning, is improving the communication between educators and parents or caregivers.

The district is rolling out a new online platform, ParentSquare, that can release announcements, newsletters, surveys and other messages to the school community, and allows for direct communication among parents, students and teachers.

For parents who might have children at multiple schools using different communication applications, the district believes ParentSquare will be a welcome and simpler improvement.

The platform is being introduced incrementally this school year and is now in 11 schools.

Monarrez also said the district has revamped its website and increased roundtable discussions with parents and caregivers to hear their feedback and share information.

People really enjoy being able to engage and have that bridge with the district, Monarrez said. They want to have opportunities to connect with Worcester Public Schools.

Getting college and career ready

The strategic plan also calls for the district to expand the opportunities for students to take advanced classes as well as career and technical education coursework, a bid to make students both college and career ready, Monarrez said.

The future of the workforce is very hard to put your finger on, she said.

According to the strategic plan, access to a wider variety of coursework can help ensure students can exercise agency in determining their educational path.

Monarrez will share more about her vision for the districts coming years on Jan. 30 at Worcester Technical High School, at an event titled Gathering for Excellence.

Featuring a panel discussion with students, parents, school leaders and other district staff, it will become an annual forum to discuss overarching pieces of the districts strategic plan, the superintendent said.

The strategic plan also calls for upgrades to school buildings, including more spending on facility operations and maintenance. The district is developing a facilities master plan and identifying the highest priority buildings in need of renovations, Monarrez said.

As Gov. Maura Healeys administration faces the prospects of budget cuts, including hits to local aid, Monarrez said she does not anticipate a huge shortfall for the Worcester schools. The district is auditing its existing funding and, according to Monarrez, made thoughtful use of federal funds during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Improving diversity

Another section of the strategic plan sets a goal of increasing the annual retention rate of educators from 80% to 85%, while increasing the diversity of the school staff so it more closely represents the student population.

According to the strategic plan, of just under 25,000 students in the Worcester school system, about 45% are Hispanic, about 25% are white and just under 20% are Black.

English is not the first language for nearly 60% of the school district.

Monarrez said she thinks a new contract reached with the districts teachers last year will improve staff retention, including through incentives for longevity.

The plan also identified a need to narrow the opportunity gap for students who are historically underserved, including by working to increase the number of Hispanic or Latino students, English learners and students with disabilities who meet or exceed grade-level expectations in reading and math.

Monarrez was formerly the deputy superintendent for the San Bernardino Unified School District in California. She spent nearly two decades as a classroom teacher and instructional leader in southern California, where she focused on working with students who were English-language learners.
The African Development Bank has appointed Aida Ngir Ngom as Director, Private Sector Development Department. Her appointment takes effect from February 1, 2024.

Ngom, a Senegalese national, is a seasoned development finance banker with more than 20 years of experience in private sector origination and development, investment banking, and corporate and project finance, notably in the infrastructure space.

Her experience includes collaborating with both private sector entities and governments, building strategic partnerships with industry leaders, and collaborating with other multilateral financial institutions and regulatory bodies.

Prior to her appointment, Ngom served as Manager for the Energy Financial Solutions Division within the Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth Complex, after having been Chief Investment Officer in the Banks Private Sector Department. She played a key role in fostering the deployment of innovative financial products and instruments as a path to delivering ground-breaking infrastructure projects and promoting a Just Energy Transition for Africa. Ngom also serves as an advisory Board member of private equity funds in the Renewable Energy and Infrastructure space.

Ngom joined the Bank in 2007 as a Principal Credit Risk Officer in the Credit Department. In 2013 she was appointed Chief Investment Officer in the Public Private Partnerships and Infrastructure Division in the Banks Private Sector Department. Here, she played a key role in strengthening the Banks processes and procedures and also participated in various governance bodies including the Non-Sovereign Working Group of the Banks Asset and Liabilities Committee. As Chief Investment Officer, she contributed to landmark and ground-breaking transactions providing targeted financial solutions to projects and clients, including the Banks biggest private sector syndication loan that mobilized $1 billion for the client. She has also been part of various taskforces including the one that established the Africa 50 and brought catalytic support to key economic sectors across the continent.

Prior to joining the Bank, Ngom worked as an investment professional and head of credit in various international and regional commercial banks including Citibank and Mauritius Commercial Bank in East, Southern, and West Africa as well as in France, in both origination and credit functions.

She graduated from Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh, with a Master of Arts degree in Business Organisation and holds a Master of Science in Banking and Finance.

Commenting on her appointment, Ngom said: I am truly honoured and humbled by the confidence placed in me and I am grateful to President Adesina for this appointment. I am fully committed to working and collaborating with the Banks senior leadership team, colleagues, as well as with our private sector clients and partners to attract private sector capital in key economic sectors and spearhead key strategic initiatives, supporting the Presidents vision.

African Development Bank Group President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, said: I am pleased to appoint Ms Aida Ngom, a respected and seasoned development finance banker as Director for the Private Sector Development Department. Aida brings to this role extensive management experience and expertise in the fields of development finance, private sector development and capacity building. She will help the Bank attract the much-needed private sector capital to key sectors and to position the institution as the partner of choice for private sector operators, whilst leveraging the Banks thorough understanding of the African context.
Dublin City University presented an outstanding Alumni Award to Mayo man this past Friday.

Kevin Tuohy, Director of Software Engineering, IT People & Finance at Aer Lingus, was a recipient of one of the awards, which recognise those who have achieved excellence in their chosen fields of work through their exceptional ability and leadership.

Those ackowledges at the awards represent all five faculties of study at DCU (Business, Humanities and Social Sciences, Education, Science and Health, Engineering and Computing).

At the ceremony in The Helix in Dublin last week, DCU President Professor Daire Keogh said he was delighted to present these awards to a special group of DCU alumni who have done exceptional things in diverse fields.

Ross Munnelly, Director of Alumni Relations at DCU, continued: "Each awardee through their own contribution helps to make the world and society a better place for us all. We have seen this through their achievements to date, they are proven leaders and who continue to inspire the next generation of graduates at DCU.

Following his graduation in 1999, Tuohy, a native of Foxford who now lives in county Cavan, set off stateside. He began his career in New York, before returning to Ireland in 2002 to become technical lead at Curam Software. Over the two decades since, across a number of roles, Kevin has evolved a distinct style of leadership with a keen focus on delivering exceptional customer value. Today, he leads a team of over 300 professionals at Aer Lingus.
A MAYO Green Party local election candidate has said he is extremely disappointed by a Mayo County Council motion calling on the local authority to cease cooperation with the Department of Integration.

Peter Nolan, the Green Party candidate for West Mayo in the local elections, said that the county could not act in populist isolation from the rest of the country or turn its back on the obligations that Ireland as a whole has under international law regarding its treatment of refugees.

Last Monday, county councillors passed a unanimous motion calling on council officials to cease cooperation with the Department of Integration until such time as an agreed strategy is put in place to properly coordinate the provision of additional services for the communities hosting refugees and international protection applicants.

There are currently over 1,200 people seeking international protection in Mayo, as well as almost 3,000 refugees from Ukraine  also known as Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection  living in state accommodation.

Mr Nolan hit out at the Mayo County Council motion, calling it regressive and isolationist.

He acknowledged that the issue of integration is not an easy one to manage, particularly given the increase in applicants over the past two years.

However, offering people fleeing persecution safety was something that we should be proud to do and something that we should recognise as a good thing, he added.

While you might expect that some more regressive Councillors might consider this the right move, it is shocking that all Councillors chose to support this motion.

The issue of immigration is not an easy one to manage. The Minister for Integration, Roderic OGorman, has himself said that the current system is not working and that he is putting in place plans to move to a situation where more accommodation is State-owned or State bought. In the meantime, however, the answer is not to turn our backs on people who need our support and compassion now.

Over the past week I have heard from many people who feel that they have been let down by their elected representatives. This backward motion really underpins the need for a progressive, Green voice in our local politics  one that understand the complexity of the issue of immigration but one that is not going to rush in to put up populist guard-rails.

The Mayo County Council decision came after a protest in Ballinrobe, with some people voicing their concerns about male international protection applicants arriving in a local hotel.
I am from northern Vietnam but now live in HCMC, and every trip back to my hometown is a miserable ordeal.

First I need to go to Tan Son Nhat Airport two hours before flight time, as recommended by airlines. I queue in line for check-in, go through security clearance for the flight to Hanoi, which takes two hours.

At Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, I collect my bags and have to take a bus for three more hours to my hometown in Nam Dinh Province.

It's a half day wasted en route.

The trip back is even worse. Because of the regular traffic jams in Hanoi, especially on Ring Road 3, I often have to leave Nam Dinh many hours before my flight time. One time, it took me five hours, instead of the normal three, to reach Noi Bai Airport.

One consolidation point is that Noi Bai Airport has a lot of seats for passengers waiting for their flights. Tan Son Nhat Airport does not have so many seats and sometimes passengers are forced to buy food or drink from eateries to use their seats.

Arriving at Tan Son Nhat, I have to go through the trouble of fetching my bags from a crowded baggage claim area, and then jostle in the crowd again to pick up a taxi. Finally, I sit through heavy traffic to get home late.

Because of all the trouble I mention, I don't visit my hometown often.

I really wish we could have the high-speed north-south train we keep talking about, so people like me can just step on and sit comfortably all the (short) way home.
Miss Vietnam World 2010 Diem Huong held her wedding ceremony at a church in Canada, where she exchanged vows with her new husband.

The event took place last Saturday, attended by close friends and family. In a touching moment, Huong's father walked her down the aisle before she joined her groom. She shared on her Facebook page that her new husband is not only loving and caring towards her and her son but is also well-received by her family.

"Finding someone who loves both you and your son, and is also accepted by your family is a difficult task," the beauty queen shared on her Facebook. "I am confident that I've now met someone who truly possesses all these traits."

Beauty queen Diem Huong in her wedding gown. Photo from Huong's Facebook.

In November 2023, Huong moved to Canada, making a living as a permanent makeup artist.

It is reported that Huong married a real estate business owner in 2011 before divorcing in 2012. She remarried in 2015.

Diem Huong was born in 1990 and was crowned Miss Vietnam World in 2010. She went on to represent Vietnam in the Miss Earth 2010 pageant and was placed in the top 14. Additionally, she participated in the Miss Universe 2012 pageant held in U.S.'s Las Vegas, Nevada.
by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, January 22, 2024

Bill Koenigsberg is feeling restless. And its not just because Horizon Media has suffered its worst string of client losses since he founded the media agency more than three decades ago: more than $1 billion, including its marquee account, GEICO.

Koenigsberg is anxious because the fundamentals of the industry have changed in such a way that it is contributing more client churn than normal.

The same reason were winning business from some of our competitors is the same reason some of our clients are looking, Koenigsberg explained, adding: Its a very restless time right now.

The truth is, Horizon picked up some pretty big wins during 2023 -- the NFLs global media account, Sams Club, FanDuel, Revlon, AMC Networks, etc. -- and net/net, including sizable retentions like Safelite, Redfin and Atlantis Paradise Island, the agency will not be as under water as many observers might think it was in 2023.

According to estimates from media-billings researcher COMvergence, Horizon won nearly $1 billion in new business, retained a quarter billion dollars in billings from other clients that conducted reviews, and its net loss of media billings for the year was projected to be $685 million.

Even so, it was a surprising move in the wrong direction for Koenigsberg, who has built Horizon into the biggest and longest-running independent media-services agency in America.

And even though he estimates Horizons revenues still grew in 2023, the real reason he is feeling so restless is because the nature of the business has changed, and he is realizing that it might be time for the nature of his business to change along with it.

The days of a client calling up and saying, Hey, I want to move my business to you are over, Koenigsberg says almost wistfully, adding: Now its a long, arduous process and everybody is involved. The CTO, procurement. Everybody. Thats why reviews are taking so long. Its not as fun as it used to be."

But Koenigsbergs unease runs deeper than cyclical economics, because he has weathered economic storms before, and if anything, he is in a strong cash position after selling a minority stake of his privately held business to Singapore-based investment firm Temasek at year-end 2021, and it has been helping him fuel internal growth, including a slew of homegrown services in retail/ecommerce (Night Market), data/analytics (blu), and even pure-play creative services (305 Worldwide).

The deal also put a hold on one of Madison Avenues favorite side bets -- when Koenigsberg would sell the worlds largest independent media-services agency to one of the big holding companies -- and if anything, signals that he might be more of a suitor than an acquisition target.

All that is racing around in Koenigsbergs mind as he begins thinking about the more serious and underlying changes taking place within the media-services industry, as well as the advertising and marketing industry at large: that the fundamentals have changed -- and that might require new leadership if Horizon is going to fulfill his long-term vision of making it the diversified, global services powerhouse he dreams it will one day be.

So dont be surprised if you hear that Koenigsberg has quietly begun talking to some high-profile industry figures to become CEO -- the kind of candidates who have strong C-suite connections, and could ultimately run the kind of big, publicly traded holding companies that Koenigsberg wants to compete with on a parity scale.

Its not something hes talking about publicly -- yet -- and hes certainly not looking to settle back anytime soon.

He even joked about that while receiving the Reisenbach Foundations Lifetime Achievement Award late last year, noting, the honor was something to think about.

It has an interesting ring to it, because my lifetime certainly isnt over and I honestly believe I have a ton more to achieve.

Then he went on to disclose something that many of the attendees, as well as others in the industry, might be surprised to have learned: Believe it or not, its been a journey without a destination, he said, adding: What I mean by that is the secret to life for me is the mystery of where the different roads lead you during life. And not to have a destination.

And rather than set my sights on a destination, I set my sights on a vision. And that vision for me was a simple one: to surround myself with great people and to help build great people. And the rest would really fall in place.

Exactly who, when, where and why Koenigsberg surrounds himself with another great person to help fulfill that vision may be one of the biggest stories of this year -- or maybe next.

In the meantime, MediaPost has selected him as our industry executive of the year for his irrepressible sense of restlessness, his insatiable entrepreneurial spirit, and for knowing when the time is right to transition to something -- or someone -- else.

Im an entrepreneur. Im a builder, Koenigsberg acknowledges.
In the crowded tequila market, Santo Spirits is staking its claim on the quality of its 100% certified additive-free tequilas.

The new packaging and ad underscore the campaign's push: "A Reputation Earned." The new "Reputation" builds on the founders' philosophy: "Go Bold or Go Boring." The initiative means crafting the brand story, while overhauling its visual identity.

Santo Tequila is the product of rock musician and spirits entrepreneur Sammy Hagar and partner-chef Guy Fieri. Santos agave expressions are handcrafted in small batches sustainably sourced with 100% Blue Weber agave.

Creative is courtesy of Louisville, KY-based Price-Weber, which handles all marketing and advertising efforts beginning this month in the U.S; international efforts kick off later this year. The campaign runs primarily through paid social media ads and on point-of-sale and merchandising assets. A new site is optimized for ecommerce. Throughout 2024, the brand will boost paid search, paid social and pulses of strategic digital ads.

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The campaign will be amplified at events led by Sammy Hagar and Guy Fieri, including Hagar's upcoming "The Best of All Worlds" tour and Fieri's Flavortown Tailgate at the Super Bowl.

The new packaging was developed by Hagar's creative collaborator Todd Gallopo's design agency Meat and Potatoes of Los Angeles. Santo Spirits credits the contemporary revamp, which began in late fall 2023, with driving a 42% increase in orders for its tequila lineup and Mezquila, a tequila/mezcal blend.

Our target audience is made up of discerning but down-to-earth tequila fans who are seeking authentic, additive-free tequilas made with tradition in mind. They are hard-working, loyal, natural entertainers, and a little mischievous. We also have an incredible base of millions of consumers who are longtime fans of Sammy and Guy. The thing that unites them and the brand is that we all believe that life is better when it's lived out loud, Ana Kornegay, vice president of marketing at Santo Spirits, told Agency Daily.

Santo Spirits was founded in 2017. The tequila is made at the El Viejito Distillery, founded in the Highlands of Jalisco, Mexico in 1937 and helmed by a third-generation distiller.

The Santo portfolio also includes Santo Tequila Blanco, Santo Tequila Reposado, Santo Tequila Anejo and Santo Tequila Blanco 100.

Distilled Spirits Council of the United States reported that tequila/mezcal sales were up 17.2%, totaling $6 billion in 2022.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, January 22, 2024

Googles parent company Alphabet will adopt a new structure for its X division, a research and development subsidiary focused on inventing and launching "moonshot" technologies. The organizational structure will enable its projects to spin out more easily.

Waymo, a self-driving car company; Loon, an internet-connectivity high-altitude balloon venture; Wing, which designs and manufactures delivery drones; Verily, which provides research for medical cures; and Malta, technology that provides a way to store electricity using molten salt, are some of the companies X has been responsible in creating.

Any new spinoffs will act as independent startups and gain support from Alphabet and outside backers, Bloomberg reported, citing one person and an email to staff obtained by the media outlet.

The change means Alphabet will lay off dozens of employees and turn to outside investors to help fund the projects.

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Founded in 2010, X is the brainchild of Google founders Brin and Page.

Astro Teller, who leads the Moonshot X lab, wrote in the email to Bloomberg that funding through market-based capital will help to spin off more projects as independent companies.

The cuts are slowly taking place, pulling employees back into the unemployment pool, like high rip currents that have continued for weeks. Since the beginning of the year, Google has eliminated thousands of jobs on teams such as hardware, software and engineering.

Alphabet Chief Financial Officer Ruth Porat will step down and move to a new role as president and chief investment officer to oversee the division, other bets, that includes X.

Last week, Google CEO Sundar Pichai warned of more layoffs after eliminating thousands of jobs at Google and about 100 at YouTube. He said the companys ambitious goals require some teams to eliminate roles to create the capacity for investment in promising areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), which agencies believe will only make it more difficult to support brands.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, January 22, 2024

Lawmakers in New Hampshire have approved a privacy bill that, if signed into law, will give residents the right to reject online behavioral ad targeting.

The bill, passed last week, awaits signature by Governor Chris Sununu. If enacted, New Hampshire will join more than a dozen other states in enacting comprehensive privacy legislation.

As with other recent state privacy bills, the measure (Senate Bill 255) essentially defines targeted advertising as ads based on people's activity over time and across non-affiliated websites. That definition excludes ads served based on first-party data.

In addition to giving residents the right to opt out of ad targeting, the measure also requires companies to obtain opt-in consent before processing residents' sensitive data -- including information about consumer's race, ethnicity, religion, health condition, sexual orientation, immigration status, and precise location.

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The measure additionally prohibits companies from processing personal data -- meaning non-public information that's linked or reasonably linkable to individuals -- in ways that would violate federal or state anti-discrimination laws.

Another provision would prohibit companies from knowingly serving targeted ads to teens between the ages of 13 and 15 without their consent.

Like privacy laws in at least eight other states, the New Hampshire bill requires companies to allow people to reject targeted advertising via a universal mechanism like the Global Privacy Control. Such mechanisms allow people to opt out of all targeted advertising, as opposed to opting out company-by-company.

The New Hampshire law specifies requirements for this type of mechanism, including that it can't unfairly disadvantage other data controllers or be turned on by default. The mechanism also must allow controllers to determine whether consumers are state residents, and whether they have made a legitimate opt-out request.

The bill calls for enforcement by the state attorney general.

If enacted, the law will take effect in January 2025.

Separately, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed that state's new privacy law last week.

I am heartened that consumers will now be given a say in the distribution of their personal information, and I have full confidence that the Attorney General will fully and appropriately enforce the law to ensure a transparent process that allows consumers to maintain control over how their personal data is collected and used, Murphy stated at the time.

Ad organizations unsuccessfully urged Murphy to veto the measure, arguing more time was needed to study it.

Several significant and material changes were made to the bill in the last few days of the legislative session, leaving affected stakeholders and consumers little to no time to provide input on substantive edits prior to the bills passage, the Association of National Advertisers, American Association of Advertising Agencies, Interactive Advertising Bureau, American Advertising Federation, and Digital Advertising Alliance said in a January 10 letter to the governor.
  Trusted Source

Human conjunctiva organoids to study ocular surface homeostasis and disease



Go to source Trusted Source

Human Conjunctiva Organoid Makes Tears in a Dish



The human conjunctiva organoid has the potential to be used as a substitute conjunctivae for patients suffering from eye burns and eye malignancies. #conjunctiva #tears #organoids #medindia

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Human conjunctiva organoids to study ocular surface homeostasis and disease - (https://www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell/fulltext/S1934-5909(23)00438-1)



The first organoid model of the human conjunctiva , a tissue involved in tear production, was created by a team of researchers from the Netherlands (). This miniature conjunctiva model can be used to test drugs for allergies, infections, or dry eye disease Our eyes produce tears to protect themselves from injuries and infections. The conjunctiva, a tissue that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, is partially responsible for the production of these tears through the release of mucus. This mucus allows the tears to stick to the ocular surface and protects it from pathogens.In the study, published in the journal, the team used cells from an actual human conjunctiva and grew them into 3D structures in a dish. These miniature structures are called organoids and function as real human conjunctiva."Once we had these functioning organoids, we wanted to know how the conjunctiva is involved in the production of tears," said lead researcher Marie Bannier-Helaouet, from the Organoid group at the Hubrecht Institute in Netherlands."We discovered that the," she added. The researchers then altered the conditions in the dish with the miniature conjunctivae to mimic allergies."The organoids started to produce completely different tears: There was more mucus but there were also more antimicrobial components," said Bannier-Helaouet. Under these conditions, they also found a new cell type in the organoids: Tuft cells."Similar cells have been discovered in other tissues, but not in the human conjunctiva."The tuft cells became more abundant under the allergy-like conditions, suggesting they play a role in the eye's reaction to allergies. Several diseases and disorders affect the conjunctiva, such as dry eye disease, cancer, allergies, and infections. In severe cases, dysfunction of this conjunctiva tissue can also lead to blindness The newly-developed organoid model opens the door for research into diseases affecting the conjunctiva."We can use our model to test drugs for allergies or dry eye disease, for example," Bannier-Helaouet said.In the long term,"We are now running preclinical studies in rabbits to assess whether this approach is feasible and helpful," Bannier-Helaouet said.Source-IANS
Once a vibrant centre of worship, where Hindu pilgrims from distant lands sought solace and sang hymns to Lord Rama, the temple now stands bereft, its silence punctuated only by the rustle of leaves and the murmur of tourists passing by.

Unlike its jubilant counterpart across the border, the Ram Kund Mandir wears a cloak of solitude. Its red brick facade, etched with time, bears witness to a history interwoven with faith and displacement.

As the grand bells of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir reverberate across India, a quieter, more poignant story unfolds in the Margalla Hills of Islamabad, Pakistan. Here, nestled on the foothills of the Himalayas, stands a 16th-century Ram Kund Mandir, a silent sentinel of a shared past and a complex present.

 X/@nkprasad123

The Ram Mandir or Ram Kund Mandir in Saidpur, Pakistan, has started gaining attention once again, thanks to the celebratory wave around Ayodhyas Ram Mandir. Unfortunately, the idols are now removed from this temple where Hindus cant worship their Lord anymore.



Many believe that this temple is where Lord Rama spent some time with Lakshman and Sita during his exile. A pond within its premises, the sacred Ram Kund, only solidifies this theory as devout Hindus believe Lord Ram drank water from it.

The freshwater pool that once reflected the stars and quenched the thirst of weary travellers and Gods now carries a stagnant stream, choked with weeds and debris. This silent pond, more than just a body of water, speaks volumes about the neglect and displacement that followed the partition of India in 1947.

Shree Ram Mandir, Saidpur village #Islamabad



The temple currently serves as a tourist site. Hindus are not allowed to pray inside.



The sanctity of the holy place will be restored and Hindu families will finally have a place to pray, said PTI lawmaker #LalChandMalhi pic.twitter.com/xnQF5mxXkF  Islamabadies (@Islamabadies) July 4, 2020

According to a report by India Today, official records dating back to 1893 show that annual fairs were conducted at the pond adjacent to the site to honour the life of Lord Ram. Hindus from various regions would embark on pilgrimages to the temple for worship, lodging in the nearby dharamshala for centuries.

However, after the partition, Pakistani authorities have barred Hindus from worshipping at the temple and its surrounding compound.

In 1960, when Islamabad city emerged on the periphery of the Punjab plains, the Rama Mandir Temple complex underwent a transformation into a girls' school. Despite prolonged protests from the Hindu community, the school eventually relocated to a different site in 2006, leading to the temple's evacuation. Regrettably, Hindus continued to face restrictions on worshipping at the site.

The presence of a gurdwara next door, built by the Sikh community, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the complexities. This interfaith space, dedicated to the teachings of Guru Nanak, stands as a symbol of understanding and peaceful coexistence, a reminder that even amidst borders and divisions, human connection can persist.

As the grand celebrations in Ayodhya echo across the border, let us also listen to the whispers of the Ram Kund Mandir in Pakistan. Hopefully, one day the silence of these temple walls will be replaced by the joyous chants of devotees.

Source: India Today
A Chinese man named Wu Youquan was detained for trying to switch a diamond ring valued at SG$318,000 (US$237,000) with a fake one at a Tiffany & Co store in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

A gloved hand picking up jewelry. Illustration photo by Freepik

The 44-year-old admitted to theft and received a 40-month prison sentence on Friday, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

Wu disclosed in court that in October last year, he was lured by another Chinese national named Chen Hanbo via WeChat, with the offer of a "fast cash job." This job entailed substituting a real diamond ring at the high-end jewelry store with an imitation. The exact payment was not specified to Wu, but he was promised a reasonable amount.

According to The Straits Times, Wu traveled to Singapore by himself on Nov. 1, 2023, with his journey funded by Chen. His task was to go to the Tiffany & Co. store at Marina Bay Sands, find the most expensive diamond ring, and photograph it.

After returning to China and sending Chen the photo of a 3.18-carat diamond ring, Wu got a counterfeit ring from Chen through the mail. On Nov. 20, 2023, he returned to Singapore and revisited the same store. Wu distracted the stores team manager and switched the rings.

His scheme unraveled when the manager noticed the price tag on the fake ring felt different. When a store employee was about to search him, Wu pulled out the real ring from his pocket and pleaded for mercy. He was subsequently arrested.

A Singaporean prosecutor suggested at court a minimum of 42 months in jail for Wu. Under Singaporean law, a person guilty of stealing from a dwelling could face up to seven years in prison and a fine.
An Army physician accused of sexual misconduct with patients is expected to appear in military court in February at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, facing 53 charges of inappropriately looking at or touching at least 23 victims.

Maj. Michael Stockin, 38, an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist who has worked at several military treatment facilities, including Madigan Army Medical Center in Washington state, faces a general court-martial on 48 counts of abusive sexual contact and five counts of indecent viewing, according to court documents.

Since November, the number of charges he faces has increased from 39, likely the result of the investigation.

Read Next: Military Ends Rescue Search for Navy SEALs Lost in Maritime Raid on Ship with Iranian Weapons

The charge of abusive sexual contact, defined under the Uniform Code of Military Justice as "touching of the genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh, or buttocks of any person," is categorized as a sexual crime that falls under the Department of Defense's new requirements for handling serious crimes against individuals.

Indecent viewing is defined as wrongfully and knowingly viewing the private area of another person without their consent or under circumstances in which there is a "reasonable expectation of privacy," according to the UCMJ.

In late 2022, Congress passed a law that required the DoD to remove authority for prosecuting alleged perpetrators of 13 offenses, including rape, murder, kidnapping and domestic violence, from the chain of command.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced Dec. 28 that the offices established to handle prosecutions of those crimes within the individual services -- four Offices of Special Trial Counsel that include the Army; Navy; Marine Corps; and Air Force, responsible for the Space Force as well -- had reached full operational capability.

A spokeswoman for the office told Stars and Stripes on Friday that the Stockin case will be the first for the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel.

The office has exclusive authority to determine whether to pursue a case against a service member, send the case to court-martial, reach plea agreements, drop charges against the accused, and more.

According to the Army's case docket list, Stockin's arraignment is set for Feb. 20 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Maximum punishment for a single charge of abusive sexual contact includes reduction in rank, dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for up to seven years.

The maximum punishment for an indecent viewing charge is reduction in rank, dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement up to one year.

Stockin previously served in Iraq; at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii; and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

The Army barred Stockin from seeing patients in February 2022 following complaints, although an attorney for several service members said that one of her clients was seen after that month.

At least five service members have filed claims against the Army and the Department of Defense under the Federal Tort Claims Act over the abuse they allegedly experienced as Stockin's patients.

Stockin's attorney, Robert Capovilla, told Military.com in November that his client looked forward to a "fair trial and the opportunity to challenge" the allegations in court.

Stockin previously waived his right to an Article 32 hearing after the alleged victims "refused to testify about the facts of the case and answer the defense team's questions," Capovilla said in a Nov. 19 email.

Office of Special Trial Counsel spokeswoman Michelle McCaskill told Stars and Stripes that the date of the arraignment is subject to change, and a final decision on the exact number of charges could come this week.

The case may be the largest ever filed of sexual assault charges against a single service member.

Editor's note: This story was updated with a revised arraignment date.

Related: Sexual Assault Case Against Former Joint Chiefs Vice Chair Gets Green Light from Appeals Court | Military.com
The Pentagon is considering extending a deployment for Marines and sailors who have been operating in the Middle East and Mediterranean since the summer, according to a defense official, a potentially lengthy extension amid questions over the readiness of Navy ships that could relieve them.

The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, or ARG, which includes roughly 2,000 Marines, has been patrolling the waters in and around the Middle East after deploying in July, and at one point this fall, it was headed to the waters off Israel as a crisis response following the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

Now, as the Pentagon looks to keep a deterrent force in the region as it seemingly plummets into further turmoil each day, service members with the Bataan may be deployed for almost a year in total. Along with the USS Bataan, the USS Carter Hall and USS Mesa Verde are also part of the amphibious ready group.

Read Next: Army Has Temporarily Promoted 52,000 Soldiers, But Over 10,000 Still Haven't Completed Required Schooling

"Deterrence is back on the table and, if you thought we forgot about the Middle East, you're wrong," one defense official told Military.com. The Bataan could be deployed until May or June -- a total of roughly 11 months, according to the defense official. CBS reported Thursday that the Bataan was deployed "indefinitely."

For the Pentagon, the amphibious groups represent a mobile, first-response force for the U.S. around the world. While carrier strike groups, such as the Eisenhower, conduct retaliatory and preemptive strikes against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, the Marines and sailors aboard the Bataan have been trawling the waters of the Red Sea, Strait of Hormuz and Mediterranean as a warning to disruptive actors in the area while being ready to help in an emergency.

Last month, USNI News also reported that the Marines aboard the Bataan have permission to fly the currently grounded MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft in case of emergencies despite a force-wide grounding. The Marines aboard the ship -- the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit -- told reporters in April that the aircraft would be essential in the case of a mass evacuation and showcased their ability to evacuate an embassy.

Amid the consideration for extending the Bataan, the Israel-Hamas War has lit a powder keg in the Middle East, spurring fears that the U.S. could be headed for another open-ended conflict in the region. Since October, service members in Syria and Iraq have been attacked more than 150 times; Houthis have attacked commercial ships in the area with drones despite repeated warning and retaliatory strikes; and in a recent escalation, Iran and Pakistan have gone tit-for-tat on attacks.

The U.S. and U.K. militaries launched retaliatory strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen on Jan. 11 after the Iran-backed militants targeted international shipping in the Red Sea. U.S. strikes have continued since then as the Houthis launched more attacks on merchant ships. President Joe Biden said last week that the U.S. military strikes would continue.

Now, the Pentagon is considering retaining Marines and sailors in the region for an extended period of time in an attempt to keep violence at bay. Whether it will work remains to be seen as the escalations continue to bring unrest, and a deployment end date for the Bataan and its Marines is in question due to the state of another Navy amphibious ready group that could relieve them.

The Boxer ARG was scheduled to deploy in November and is likely to replace the Bataan, according to the defense official, who was granted anonymity to discuss operations.

However, a Navy official who spoke to Military.com on Friday said that the "the Navy has several options to fulfill the missions in the region, and while we can't discuss the specific plans for Bataan, we're not aware that Boxer was ever a part of that planning."

The Navy does not dispute that the Boxer -- the lead ship in the next amphibious ready group to deploy -- is not ready.

Military.com is aware that the ship was conducting the "composite training unit exercise" -- one of the final, major exercises that certifies a ship for deployment -- as late as last week.

A Navy official told Military.com Monday that the ship has since returned to port but needs "additional advanced training" before it is fully ready to deploy.

An earlier statement from the Navy's Third Fleet, provided to Military.com last week, said that the sea service wouldn't "speculate on any future operations or movements for operational security reasons" and noted that "the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit team maintains a constant level of readiness to respond to emergent situations."

Politico first reported the potential extension on the Bataan and 26th MEU in the face of Navy maintenance issues. When asked about the deployment being extended, a U.S. European Command spokesperson told Military.com on Saturday that, "due to operational security considerations, we will not discuss future operations."

"However, while deployed to the region, our forces work closely with allies and partners throughout the region to defend our shared interests," they said.

The 26th MEU is a contingent of "special operations-capable" Marines who have the ability to conduct non-combatant evacuations, embassy reinforcement and port seizures, among other missions.

The MEU originally deployed in July to the Middle East to thwart Iranian aggression against commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. In October, the MEU cut an exercise in Kuwait short to respond to the Israel-Hamas War that began that month.

The last publicly disclosed operation the unit conducted was Odyssey Encore, an exercise in Greece that ended Wednesday. It arrived in Souda Bay, Greece, over the weekend for a port visit to conduct maintenance before the "next phase in our deployment," the 26th MEU commander, Col. Dennis "Dolf" Sampson, said in a press release.

"We're able to operate really autonomously in international waters and airspace. And so it gives us a lot of freedom of operations," Marine Lt. Col. Jeremy Hawkins, a senior planner on the Bataan, told The Associated Press on Friday. "We're floating on a piece of America, wherever we're at."

Meanwhile, the nearly 30-year-old Boxer has had a tough past several years. In the summer of 2023, Military.com reported that, despite completing a two-year, $200 million overhaul that was supposed to ready the ship for the service's newest fighter jet, it was struggling to actually set sail.

Cmdr. Arlo Abrahamson, the spokesman for the Navy's surface fleet, told Military.com at the time that the Boxer was supposed to go to sea on July 21 -- more than a year since the ship was last seen underway -- but couldn't "because of ongoing maintenance issues."

About a month later, the ship finally left the docks, but was spotted belching black smoke just outside of San Diego Harbor. An online account that runs a web camera focused on the harbor captured the ship, saying it "just had an engineering casualty."

When Military.com asked about the incident, Abrahamson claimed the incident was connected to system tests.

"The boilers burn fuel which can temporarily produce black smoke, including when engineering systems are being tested during a sea trial period," Abrahamson said in August.

Related: Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit En Route to Waters Off Israel, Defense Official Says
The U.S. government will pay $9.5 million to a military family to settle a medical malpractice judgment for a "botched gastric bypass surgery" in 2020.

In November 2020, Julie Bond, a 31-year-old Army wife, underwent a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure at Tripler Army Medical Center after being referred to the hospital's bariatric surgery program by her primary care physician at Schofield. She had given birth to a baby earlier that year and was having trouble losing and keeping off the weight she had gained during her pregnancy.

"(Bond) was a bold, vibrant, caring, loving, loud woman that loved deeply," Beth Anderson, Bond's mother, said Friday at a news conference as she spoke on Zoom from the mainland with Bond's husband, Donald. "What happened to her should not have happened."

After cutting apart her small intestines, as routine during the procedure, Tripler surgeons reattached Bond's small intestine backward, causing a hernia that necessitated emergency surgery three days later.

During her emergency surgery, anesthetists damaged Bond's lungs, and she developed blood clots. On the day that she would have needed a machine to remove the clots, the machine at Tripler's facility was broken. While The Queen's Medical Center was willing to accept Bond and remove the clots, her doctors chose to instead administer a clot-busting medication called tPA  which would cause micro- hemorrhages throughout her brain.

The emergency surgery would leave Bond in a coma, and when she awoke from the coma, she was a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic  without the ability to talk, breathe, eat or move on her own  and experienced "locked in" syndrome, as she was conscious of everything going on around her.

"She could only blink and cry and depend on machines for her life's functions," said Loretta Sheehan, a partner at Davis Levin Livingston and one of the attorneys who represented Bond's estate, at the news conference. "Because of Tripler's negligence, Donald has lost his wife, three small children have lost their mother and Beth has lost a daughter. This is a terrible tragedy that never, ever should have happened."

Bond died from sepsis on Dec. 16, 2020, approximately a month and a half after her gastric bypass procedure.

A spokesperson for Tripler declined to comment on the case, deferring questions to the U.S. Department of Justice.

The case is the latest in a series of malpractice lawsuits against Tripler since 1997. In 2023 the U.S. government awarded $29.5 million to a local military family for an incident involving their then-month-old daughter that led to her losing most of her intestines. In 2022 the government paid a $15 million settlement for a baby who suffered brain damage after a delayed cesarean section in 2018.

"I pray that those located on-island that are looking at going into some program at Tripler thinks twice about it, or they see this and we can let them know that there is a track record of people being taken from their families," Donald Bond said at the news conference. "The hardest thing that I've ever had to see was (Julie) losing every bit of control that she had and having her rely on the trust that she'd placed in a doctor and to have that trust betrayed."

In 2015, Davis Levin Livingston sued Tripler for a similar bariatric surgery performed on 32-year-old Navy wife Christina Mettias. Mettias did not qualify for the procedure, but was advised by Tripler's bariatric surgery program that the procedure would help her lose and keep off her weight. Her surgery resulted in "leaks, infections, internal bleeding, strictures, multiple repair surgeries, endoscopies, widespread scar tissue, a life of gut pain and unrelenting vomiting," according to a news release.

"I would hope that the bariatric clinic at Tripler has looked long and hard at their programs, that they're not just letting anybody and everyone who wants to have this procedure done have it done," Anderson said. "There should have been safeguards in place to protect Julie. She went off what she was told from the doctors, like we all do and we trust."

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Civilian dorm advisers are being added to Marine Corps barracks. What's next? Fizzies in the base swimming pool? A dead horse in the commandant's office? Is the Marine Corps becoming an "Animal House"?

The recent Military.com expose on the deplorable conditions in barracks at Camp Pendleton's School of Infantry West is alarming, but the response of senior Marine Corps leaders is disgraceful. Instead of relieving the entire chain of command of the Marine Corps training establishment, the services leadership has undertaken a managerial response.

The senior leadership at Camp Pendleton apparently had no idea of the conditions at the School of Infantry barracks until getting ready for an announced visit by the general officer in charge of the Marine Corps training establishment. The local leadership was shocked -- shocked -- to find out that the barracks were riddled with filth, vermin and graffiti, though this had apparently been the case for several years. Instead of holding the chain of command responsible for failures of the most basic leadership functions, the Corps ordered that civilians be brought in to fix problems that should never have occurred in the first place.

Back in the days when the Marine Corps was still the Marine Corps, quality of life was considered a basic leadership responsibility. Every Thursday evening was a field day cleanup and maintenance effort supervised by the noncommissioned officers and staff NCOs, which platoon commanders then inspected. On Friday morning, the company commander would inspect the living spaces. It was not unusual for battalion and regimental commanders or the general officer commanding the installation to make surprise "heath and comfort" inspections of various units. If unreported maintenance or cleanliness problems were found, the proverbial excrement flowed downhill immediately. If a squad's area was found to be unsatisfactory, it was not unusual for a regimental commander to have the entire chain of command standing tall in front of him. The squad leader, platoon commander, company commander and battalion commander would then all take part in a very unpleasant discussion of how "we" had failed.

The modern response to this latest failure has been telling. The senior leadership has promised to throw more money at the problem and bring in civilian housing specialists to fix a situation that was probably years in the making. But this is not the first time the Marine Corps, and the military as a whole, has faced a rough patch tied to discipline.

As a young lieutenant in 1973 to 1976, I experienced a Pentagon and Marine Corps under attack by a post-Watergate Congress and a national leadership adrift. Caused by policies pushed by Defense Department leadership, the Marine Corps and the rest of the services were suffering from a breakdown in discipline aided by the post-Vietnam anti-military mood in the country. The DoD-mandated "New Age" management approaches exacerbated the problem, especially when it came to handling criminal actions.

Miscreants with multiple charges against them could not be put in pre-trial confinement. It was not unusual for a Marine with multiple charges against him to show up at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, to collect his paycheck and then promptly disappear until the next payday, thus avoiding a desertion charge for which he might be incarcerated pending a court-martial. Congress got its peace dividend by cutting military budgets. Things got so bad that my regiment had to chain toilet paper rolls to the walls to prevent pilferage. Many superb potential future general officers quit the Corps in disgust.

As is the case today, the rot started at the top, but the cloud started to lift when Gen. Louis Wilson -- a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II -- took over as commandant in the middle of the decade. He immediately authorized the Marine Corps to expeditiously discharge the worst disciplinary problems and took other measures to bring the drug problem in the ranks under control. Human relations programs were replaced by leadership classes, and things turned around almost immediately. He swore that he would fix the Corps, and he succeeded.

Today's problems will be harder to reverse.

-- Gary Anderson is a retired Marine Corps colonel who commanded several battalions and was the commander of Camp Hansen, the largest Marine Corps installation on Okinawa, Japan.
Military life is always an adventure, but moving overseas takes things to another level. In a lot of ways, its the best of both worlds: you get to travel the world and experience a foreign country for a year or more, but you still have the safety net of a familiar job and fellow service members.

Most people who get stationed overseas buy old cars that have made the rounds among service members, but an OCONUS assignment is also a great opportunity to drive something that isnt available in the U.S. If youre looking for something exciting, we rounded up the best Japanese cars to buy while youre stationed in Japan.

If Japanese domestic market (JDM) cars are so great, why cant we buy them in the U.S.? Importing cars from overseas involves significant legal hurdles. Manufacturers have to pass strict safety and emissions standards that can end up being cost-prohibitive. Shipping is also expensive. That isnt a problem for most consumer cars but if a vehicle's primary appeal is a super-low price, the cost of getting it across the Pacific can bump it into a higher price range where its no longer competitive. Finally, cars that are great to drive in Japan often dont make any sense on U.S. roads. Can you imagine a car with a 0.6-liter engine trying to keep pace on the highway?

Bottom line: while youre stationed at one of the many U.S. military installations in Japan, you should make an effort to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These are fantastic cars that most of us will never see, let alone have an opportunity to own.

Suzuki Jimny

The 2023 Suzuki Jimny (Suzuki)

If I received orders to Japan, I would step off the plane and walk straight to the nearest Suzuki dealership to buy the brightest lime green Jimny they had. This little 4x4 is tiny but mighty, with a punchy turbocharged 660-cc three-cylinder engine, four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case, and an old-school ladder frame. Its even available with a manual transmission. If you want even more power (a total of 101 horsepower, to be exact), a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine is available in the Jimny Sierra.

If the Jimny looks familiar, thats because Suzuki used to sell its sibling, the Samurai, in the U.S. The light and nimble Samurai is a legend in the American off-roading community, but it hasnt been available in the States since 1995.

Opportunities for off-roading in Japan are extremely limited but remote, unpaved mountain roads offer plenty of adventure. If you venture into northern Japan during winter, youll be glad to have the Jimnys proven four-wheel drive. There isnt much room for cargo in the Jimny but it can easily slip through dense city traffic and make parking less of a hassle, and youll save money on gas and registration, especially with the three-cylinder engine.

Suzuki lists a starting MSRP of 1,555,400 yen for the base-level Jimny XG. That comes out to $10,860 at the time of publishing. Youll spend significantly less for a used Jimny and there are plenty to choose from. According to recent auction results, a 2016 Jimny with Suzukis three-cylinder engine should sell for around 950,000 yen ($6,630).

Toyota GR Yaris

The 2023 Toyota GR Yaris (Toyota)

When Toyota revealed the GR Yaris in 2020, American car enthusiasts were simultaneously thrilled and heartbroken. Gazoo Racing blessed the diminutive Yaris hatchback with a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine making 261 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a manual transmission. The whole package was developed for rally racing and offered to the public to meet homologation requirements. And its not allowed in the U.S.

Thats right, Toyota sells an all-terrain race car thats roughly the size of an overloaded rucksack. Sadly, the very coolest Japanese cars rarely make it to North America. Being stationed in Japan is a true blessing for car nuts who want to taste this little speed nugget without waiting 25 years to take the first bite.

According to Toyota, the GR Yaris starts at 2,650,000 yen. At the time of writing, that equates to roughly $18,500. Yes, thats a significant chunk of change to spend on a car youll only own for two or three years, but you shouldnt have any trouble selling such a hot commodity to either another service member or a Japanese citizen.

Honda e

The 2023 Honda e Studio (Honda)

If youre bored with the limited selection of EVs in the U.S., a PCS to Japan could be your chance to drive something fun, electric, and possibly quite rare. The Honda e is a stylish little hatchback that looks like it came to life out of a Pixar movie.

The Honda e is surprisingly spacious inside and boasts a massive high-resolution display running the width of the dash, but it isnt a performance machine. The 35-kilowatt-hour battery has a limited range of 259 kilometers (161 miles), although range in the real world will be less (Honda UK lists the es range as only 137 miles). Maximum power is listed at 150 horsepower and the e takes 8.3 seconds to get from 0 to 60 miles per hour, so it isnt a speed demon, either.

The Honda e is perfect for short trips and commuting as long as you have reliable access to charging. If you need to venture far from your base, take advantage of Japans superb public transportation options.

The Honda e ceased production in January 2024. Part of the problem has to be the cars 4,950,000-yen price (more than $34,500). Thats too bad because it looks like a great entry into the compact market for EVs. If youre interested in driving one, now is your chance.

Mazda Flair Wagon

The 2023 Mazda Flair Wagon (Mazda)

Disclaimer: This is not a wagon and there is no flair, but it is a fantastic name. Honestly, most of the appeal of this car is being able to yell at your friends from across the parking lot to get in the Flair Wagon.

The Flair Wagon might look like something youd see buzzing around the flight line, but I assure you its a street-legal vehicle you can indeed buy and drive in Japan. Its a great option for families who want a vehicle that can fit everyone in (relative) comfort while still taking advantage of a kei cars minuscule proportions and budget-friendly tax and insurance benefits.

Like the Suzuki Jimny, the Mazda Flair Wagon comes with a 660cc three-cylinder engine. The Mazda is more city-oriented, though, with a fuel-saving CVT instead of a conventional gearbox and low ground clearance. The interior isnt fancy but it benefits from the typical build quality associated with modern Japanese cars.

A two-wheel-drive base model costs 1,541,100 yen, according to Mazda. Thats around $11,000 and you can step up to higher trim levels like the Flair Wagon Custom Style if you want more creature comforts. The Flair Wagon is also available in a wheelchair-accessible version.

Lexus LM

The 2023 Lexus LM (Lexus)

It will come as no surprise that the Lexus LM is the most expensive car on this list by far. Realistically, nobody without multiple stars on their collar or an office at Raytheon can afford one (its 20,000,000-yen price is nearly $140,000), but its so impressive that you should at least take a trip to a Japanese Lexus dealer to see one for yourself.

What looks like a modest minivan is actually a cunning way to pack as much luxury and cutting-edge technology into one vehicle as possible. The two back seats, where you would ideally be chauffeured about town, are leather recliners appointed with a refrigerator (for your favorite vintage bubbly, of course), remote-controlled privacy shades, individual climate control, and a widescreen TV spanning the width of the vehicle. You can (or could, if you won the lottery) control all of this opulence with a removable touchscreen control in the leather-wrapped armrest of each seat.

Who knows, maybe youll save a wealthy Japanese businessman from being struck by traffic and hell buy you an LM to show his gratitude. Maybe prices will crater to the tune of 90%. Or perhaps all we can do is dream of being whisked about downtown Tokyo in one of these mobile relaxation cocoons. At least you know what your options are.

FAQ

Can I use my U.S. drivers license in Japan?

No, U.S. service members who want to drive in Japan have to do more than find a great deal on a local car. Any member of the U.S. military or dependent who wants to drive in Japan needs to obtain a U.S. Forces Japan form 4EJ (USFJ-4 EJ) through the appropriate command. Your car will also have to meet your commands criteria for base registration.

Youll need to attend classroom training, pass a written test, and provide proof of a valid U.S. or international drivers license to obtain permission to drive in Japan.

What is the Shaken, and are Japanese used cars reliable?

The Suzuki Jimny Murdock (Suzuki)

All of these picks are available as new cars, but its worth noting that Japan has a thriving used car market. Vehicle inspections known as shaken uphold an extremely high standard for safety, maintenance, and overall condition so any used car you buy in Japan is likely to be very well cared for.

Some of the most popular used cars in Japan, especially among Americans, are the Toyota Hiace and Suzuki Jimny. Even though theyre tiny and inexpensive, their build quality is very good and you can get a reliable vehicle for a very reasonable price. If youre interested in comparing new and used vehicles, Lease Japan has an informative breakdown of the Japanese car-buying process.

Can I Bring My Japanese Car Back to the US?

The R32 Nissan Skyline Murdock (Nissan)

It is possible to import cars to the U.S. yourself, and the process can be surprisingly easy. If youre interested in keeping your Japanese car, make sure you do your homework before buying it. New cars that arent available in the U.S. are not eligible for import (with very few exceptions). According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, cars that are more than 25 years old can be imported without being subjected to U.S. vehicle standards.

Once Stateside, youll have to deal with the usual registration process. Some states are more tolerant of imported vehicles than others; California is notoriously strict about making drivers modify their cars to meet current emissions standards. Insuring a gray-market car is a little more complicated, too, so look into what it would cost to insure your JDM car in the U.S. before starting the export/import process.

Professional export services are available in Japan to assist with this, and youll have a big advantage in seeing the vehicle in person rather than via email in the U.S. You can also handle the paperwork and logistics yourself if youre ambitious. I know people who have done it both ways and either can be successful.

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Pedro Caballero will head the list of Valores party for the European Parliament elections

On January 12, 2024, the board of Valores, at the proposal of the national president Alfonso Galdon, approved the election of Pedro Jose Caballero Garcia, Valores leader in Castilla la Mancha and a native of Toledo, as head of the list for the elections to the European Parliament in June.

Caballero, husband and father to two children, is an IT and computer professional and has been leading the CONCAPA (largest Confederation of Parents and Parents of Students) for eight years. In this capacity, he has represented and defended parents' freedom to choose the type of education they want for their children. In the coming months, he will step down from this role, in line with the statutes of the organization, in order to dedicate himself to promoting the Valores project in Spain and in the European Parliament.

His career in volunteering, advocating for families, spokesperson on behalf of the platform "We Will Always Be Family", as well as advisor on the permanent board of the State School Council, State Coexistence Observatory, and his participation in countless committees at local, provincial, and even state level, have made his appointment a natural and inevitable choice.

For president Galdon, "Caballero's courage in asking the European institutions for protection against the violation of the fundamental rights of families regarding the education of their children with the LOMLOE- education law passed during the pandemic, when the rights of the society in general had been curbed- causing the great orange tide in defense of freedom of education, have weighed heavily for his election. Additionally, I believe Pedro embodies well the profile that Valores wants to convey to the Spanish society".

In his first statement, the leader of Valores in Castilla la Mancha and now top candidate for European elections, Pedro Caballero points to the responsibility he takes on at this time, in such a divided and tense society, where our principles and values are constantly being attacked and undermined: "I am grateful to president Alfonso Galdon, for the trust placed in me to bring this new project to fruition and I will make it my mission to build bridges and alliances in defense of families, life, and freedom of education. It is time to act, to mobilize the society to return to sanity and common sense. To recover those VALUES which our elders -grandparents and parents- have defended with so much determination, and which have underpinned forty years of true coexistence and progress of the whole Spanish society."

ECPM salutes this appointment and we are greatly inspired by Mr. Caballero's character and experience. The Christians in Spain finally have a worthwhile and real alternative when they enter the voting booth on June 9, 2024; they can confidently vote for a party and people with vision, uncorrupted and focused on what truly matters for the Spanish people.

Enhorabuena!
The defending National League champions were among the most aggressive teams early in the offseason. They acquired Eugenio Suarez to address third base and fortified the rotation via a four-year, $80MM contract with Eduardo Rodriguez. Just before Christmas, they reunited with left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. on a three-year, $42MM guarantee.

Arizona hasnt made a major league addition since finalizing their new contract with Gurriel a month ago. Theyre not done, however. GM Mike Hazen has said a few times the Snakes are looking for a hitter they can plug in at the DH spot. He reiterated that in a chat with Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic not long after the new year, suggesting at the time they felt they were likelier to add another bat in free agency than through trade. While Arizona was focused primarily on right-handed hitters early in the winter, their deals with Suarez and Gurriel have balanced the lineup. Hazen indicated theyre considering DH options of either handedness at this point.

A few of their reported targets remain on the market. Some potential fits:

Right-Handed Free Agents

J.D. Martinez : Martinez, who mashed in a two-month stint for Arizona at the end of the 2017 season, remains one of the more productive hitters in the majors. Hes coming off perhaps his best year since 2019. He blasted 33 home runs in only 479 plate appearances for the Dodgers a season ago. His .271/.321/.572 batting line was stellar and he turned in his highest hard contact rate (54.8%) of the Statcast era. The huge power production partially masks an uptick in whiffs, as he struck out at a career-high 31.1% clip. Thats a bit alarming, but teams would happily live with the strikeouts if they anticipate Martinez hitting for that kind of power again. Arizona was tied to Martinez, who did not receive a qualifying offer from L.A., in early December. The Blue Jays, Angels and Mets have also been tied to his market.

: Martinez, who mashed in a two-month stint for Arizona at the end of the 2017 season, remains one of the more productive hitters in the majors. Hes coming off perhaps his best year since 2019. He blasted 33 home runs in only 479 plate appearances for the Dodgers a season ago. His .271/.321/.572 batting line was stellar and he turned in his highest hard contact rate (54.8%) of the Statcast era. The huge power production partially masks an uptick in whiffs, as he struck out at a career-high 31.1% clip. Thats a bit alarming, but teams would happily live with the strikeouts if they anticipate Martinez hitting for that kind of power again. Arizona was tied to Martinez, who did not receive a qualifying offer from L.A., in early December. The Blue Jays, Angels and Mets have also been tied to his market. Jorge Soler : Soler, 32 next month, drilled 36 homers for the Marlins a season ago. His .250/.341/.512 showing was a huge improvement on the .207/.295/.400 mark he turned in during his first year in Miami. Soler made the easy call to decline a $13MM player option in search of a multi-year pact. The Marlins decided not to issue a QO and, according to the slugger, havent shown any interest in a reunion. While Soler is one of the sports streakiest hitters, hes near the top of the league in raw power. He draws plenty of walks and trimmed his strikeouts to a managable 24.3% clip last season. Soler should find at least two guaranteed years and has an argument for a three-year pact. Arizona checked in on his market in early December. Theyve been joined by the Blue Jays, Red Sox and Mariners in that regard (although Seattle is probably out of the mix after signing Mitch Garver and reacquiring Mitch Haniger ).

: Soler, 32 next month, drilled 36 homers for the Marlins a season ago. His .250/.341/.512 showing was a huge improvement on the .207/.295/.400 mark he turned in during his first year in Miami. Soler made the easy call to decline a $13MM player option in search of a multi-year pact. The Marlins decided not to issue a QO and, according to the slugger, havent shown any interest in a reunion. While Soler is one of the sports streakiest hitters, hes near the top of the league in raw power. He draws plenty of walks and trimmed his strikeouts to a managable 24.3% clip last season. Soler should find at least two guaranteed years and has an argument for a three-year pact. Arizona checked in on his market in early December. Theyve been joined by the Blue Jays, Red Sox and Mariners in that regard (although Seattle is probably out of the mix after signing and reacquiring ). Justin Turner : Arizona has been linked to Turner in consecutive offseasons. Even at 39, he continues to produce at the plate. Hes coming off a .276/.345/.455 showing with 23 longballs in 626 trips to the dish for the Red Sox. His is a balanced offensive profile. He walks at an average rate, makes a decent amount of hard contact and remains very difficult to strike out (17.6% strikeout percentage last year). Turner is no longer capable of playing every day at third base, but he can factor in at either corner infield spot while logging the bulk of his at-bats at DH. Toronto, the incumbent Red Sox, and Mets have also been linked to him this winter.

: Arizona has been linked to Turner in consecutive offseasons. Even at 39, he continues to produce at the plate. Hes coming off a .276/.345/.455 showing with 23 longballs in 626 trips to the dish for the Red Sox. His is a balanced offensive profile. He walks at an average rate, makes a decent amount of hard contact and remains very difficult to strike out (17.6% strikeout percentage last year). Turner is no longer capable of playing every day at third base, but he can factor in at either corner infield spot while logging the bulk of his at-bats at DH. Toronto, the incumbent Red Sox, and Mets have also been linked to him this winter. Rhys Hoskins: Hoskins is the only player in this group to whom the D-Backs havent been connected. Perhaps hes simply not interested in signing as a full-time designated hitter. With Christian Walker at first base, the Snakes would have to push Hoskins into a bat-only role on most days. If hes open to that possibility, Hoskins makes sense as one of the more consistent offensive players still on the market. The longtime Phillie missed last year after tearing his ACL in Spring Training. Between 2019-22, he hit .240/.349/.479 in more than 2000 trips to the plate. Philadelphia did not issue him a qualifying offer.

Left-Handed Platoon Bats

Brandon Belt : While Arizona hasnt been tied to Belt this offseason, thats true of essentially everyone. There havent been any public revelations on his market despite his strong 2023 season in a platoon capacity for the Blue Jays. The longtime Giant hit .254/.369/.490 with 19 homers through 404 plate appearances. That came almost entirely against right-handed pitching, but hes still a productive three-true-outcomes hitter when he holds the platoon advantage.

: While Arizona hasnt been tied to Belt this offseason, thats true of essentially everyone. There havent been any public revelations on his market despite his strong 2023 season in a platoon capacity for the Blue Jays. The longtime Giant hit .254/.369/.490 with 19 homers through 404 plate appearances. That came almost entirely against right-handed pitching, but hes still a productive three-true-outcomes hitter when he holds the platoon advantage. Joc Pederson: Last year wasnt a great showing for Pederson, who hit .235/.348/.416 with 15 homers across 425 trips for the Giants. Thats not what San Francisco envisioned when extending him a near-$20MM qualifying offer last winter. Pederson wont come close to that kind of salary this time around. Still, hes only a year removed from a .274/.353/.521 line. Pederson continues to post hard contact rates near the top of the league and has five 20-homer seasons on his resume.

Trade Possibilities

While Hazen indicated a free agent pursuit was likelier than a trade, theyre not going to close off the latter market entirely. If they dont find an agreeable price point with any of their targets on the open market, there are a few speculative possibilities on the trade front.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A man who was shot by Grand Rapids police after allegedly charging officers with a box cutter has been charged with felonious assault.

The two officers who shot the man have been cleared of criminal charges, Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker said Monday, Jan. 22.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  A new Jackson smoothie business is a real sister act, while GGs Cafe is making some changes.

See these recent Jackson County business stories and others you may have missed.

Jackson Crossing has a new smoothie business thats a real sister act

It started as a love of making smoothies at home, but Sisters Smoothies has transformed into a fully functioning family business inside Jackson Crossing.

The Mahoney family, led by the daughters of Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney and his wife, Semaj, has been blending smoothies as a business since 2020.

The Mahoney sisters, Calvena, 14; Sophia, 12; Olivia, 10; Cecilia, 9; and Ila, 6, all had a dream of starting a business but debated on what sell. Choices included popsicles, lemonade or even candy, but they finally landed on smoothies as their niche, Calvena said.

Read the full story here.

More exam rooms, pharmacy drive-thru part of Center for Family Health clinic expansion

Jacksons Center for Family Health is expanding its walk-in clinic to better serve patients.

Construction is underway to extend the current 2,891-square-foot clinic with an additional 1,472 square feet. The hope is the larger space will provide additional lobby space, more exam rooms, a second patient bathroom and two pharmacy drive throughs, Center for Family Health COO Sara Benedetto said.

We had even prior to COVID felt pretty cramped in our walk-in space and felt that we needed additional exam rooms, but also just additional space to be able to provide care more efficiently, Benedetto said.

Read the full story here.

Extended hours, simplified menu and dinner are coming to GGs Cafe in Parma

Residents eating at GGs Cafe in Parma may notice some changes coming to the restaurant this year.

The cafe has been open since 1975. Current co-owner Jennifer Poynters grandma Lana Putnam turned it into The Parma Cafe in 1985, and Poynter and her sister Jessica Crider took over in 2019 and renamed it GGs Cafe, after their grandmas nickname Grandma Great.

Theyve continued the traditions of the restaurant, while adding their own touches. However, this year Poynter decided to try and simplify the menu to benefit the customers and staff.

Other small changes include a brief history of the restaurant on the back of the menu, which Poynter said she hopes helps bring more attention to the restaurant. Other plans include extending hours to be open on Sunday and launching a website.

Read the fill story here.

Helping small businesses thrive is the goal of this Jackson County company

After a rough time starting out in the craft industry, Tasha Lynn Garner wanted to create a space where vendors could learn to thrive and support each other.

The Grass Lake resident, known in the vendor community as just Tasha Lynn, has previously sold her chocolates at local craft shows in the Jackson County area. However, after running into scams from fake organizers, and an unwelcoming atmosphere from other vendors, she said she decided to open her own event company.

Tasha Lynn has been running her events company Fishville Farms Events LLC since 2021. It offers different services, including running craft and vendor shows in the Jackson County and Chelsea areas, as well as free small business consultations, she said.

Read the full story here.

The pork chop dinners will bring you through the door of this new Jackson bar

A new Jackson bar has opened, offering great bar food, cold drinks and a smoked pork chop to die for.

Sarah Lack said she loved the bar scene and small-town life after bartending and working in customer service. So, when the owner of Thulis Pub, 1110 Page Ave., decided to retire and sell the bar, she jumped on the opportunity to open a place of her own.

I like the neighborhood bar business where you can come and get something to eat, see your friends and get something to drink, Lack said.

Read the full story here.

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On October 7, 2023, Hamas set in motion a bloody conflict with a horrific terrorist attack on Israeli civilians. It was a heinous, cowardly act that was condemned the world over. Hamas has a history of violence going back three decades. It had been designated as a terrorist organization by several governments, including the United States.

To help hinder Hamass ability to operate, the United States is focusing on the groups financial flow. In January, the U.S. Department of State announced a reward of up to $10 million for information on Hamas financial facilitators Abdelbasit Hamza Elhassan Khair, Amer Kamal Sharif Alshawa, Ahmed Sadu Jahleb, Walid Mohammed Mustafa Jadallah, and Muhammad Ahmad Abd Al-Dayim Nasrallah.

Khair, also known as Hamza, is a Sudan-based Hamas financier who has managed numerous companies in Hamass investment portfolio and was involved in a large financial transfer to Hamas.

Alshawa, Jahleb, and Jadallah are part of Hamass investment network in Turkey.

Alshawa is the Chief Executive Officer for Trend GYO, and he has served as a board member for several Hamas investment portfolio companies.

Jahleb is the Hamas investment portfolio secretary. He coordinates various activities for Hamas-controlled companies and officials, while Jadallah serves on the boards of several investment portfolio companies.

Nasrallah has been involved in the transfer of tens of millions of dollars to Hamas.

Late last year, all five men were named Specially Designated Global Terrorists by the U.S. Treasury Department under Executive Order 13224, as amended.

If you or anyone you know has information on Khair, Alshawa, Jahleb, Jadallah, or Nasrallah, or their financial operations, please contact Rewards for Justice via Signal, Telegram, or WhatsApp at: +1-202-702-7843 worldwide. All information will be kept strictly confidential. More information about this reward offer can be found on the Rewards for Justice website, which is located at: www.rewardsforjustice.net.

All credible reports will be investigated, and the identity of all informants will be kept confidential.
(ADYPU), recognized for its commitment to shaping young minds through top-notch education, recently hosted the launch of the highly acclaimedevent in Mumbai. This marks the inaugural edition of the competition in India, which has been a source of encouragement and inspiration for thecommunity for more than four decades. Originating in the UK in 1979 through a collaboration with UK Hospitality and the Restaurant Association, the competition was established to promote hospitality as a preferred career path. With the support of industry professionals, it has thrived for over 45 years.Dr Robert Walton MBE, Chairman and President of the Restaurant Association UK, said, "The Young Chef Young Waiter competition has a storied history of discovering and celebrating talent in the hospitality industry. Hosting this event at Ajeenkya DY Patil University adds a new and exciting dimension, especially as we resonate with the universitys dedication to encouraging out-of-the-box thinking. We keenly await new flavours and experiences from India". The YCYW competition will be the perfect launchpad for young Indian talent to build global networks and learn from the very best. We want to spotlight India as a rising giant in hospitality excellence, added Sean Valentine, Managing Director, World Young Chef Young Waiter.The alignment of principles between the university and the Young Chef, Young Waiter competition is remarkable. Both entities prioritize qualities such as creativity, innovative thinking, and a proactive approach, aiming to foster talent and inspire young individuals to explore careers in culinary arts and hospitality. The competition is designed to facilitate the professional development of aspiring student chefs and service trainees by challenging their abilities in high-pressure situations and providing valuable learning experiences through interactions with industry experts worldwide.Dr Ajeenkya DY Patil, President, Ajeenkya DY Patil University and Chairman, Ajeenkya DY Patil Group said, We are thrilled to host the YCYW competition and join in the celebration of the rising stars in Indias vibrant hospitality segment . By providing a global platform for young talent, we hope to spotlight Indian culinary arts and service excellence while inspiring wider interest in this industry. We are proud to be associated with this initiative, and we look forward to seeing the extraordinary skills that young professionals will bring to the table".Renowned chefs Mario Perara and Cyrus Todiwala will serve as the judges for the competition. The evaluation process will commence with an initial screening of applications, leading to the India Final. The finalists from this stage will then proceed to compete on the global stage. Celebrity chef Cyrus Todiwala OBE DL, Cafe Spice, United Kingdom, said, Indian cuisine and service standards have made their mark globally. In fact, the country has seen praiseworthy growth in culinary excellence and service standards in the last decade. We are delighted to bring this global competition to India to celebrate the immense potential of local talent on the world stage".I'm thrilled to judge the creative talents of Indias next generation of hospitality heroes. This is a great opportunity for them to show the world that they have what it takes to leave a mark on the hospitality industry worldwide", added Celebrity Chef Mario Pereira, Executive Chef, The Dorchester.
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The European Investment Bank (EIB) and CaixaBank have signed a guarantee agreement that will enable the Spanish bank to issue up to 150 mill. . .
"A dreamer's nightmare, are we all slaves to desire?"

"The crocodile is in the river; the river is in my heart, and I am in the belly of the crocodile." "Don't be controlled by desire. We need light!" As college students spoke aloud lines and shared their sentiments about novelist and playwright Mo Yan's newest drama, Crocodile, the unveiling of the play took center stage at the Beiguo Theater in Beijing Normal University on Jan 11. The drama, produced by Magnificent Culture Co Ltd and scripted by Mo Yan, will premiere in Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu province, on May 3, followed by a national tour until September. Crocodile is the first original drama script penned by the Nobel laureate Mo Yan. Celebrated for his imaginative and humanistic fiction, Mo won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2012. Mo spent over a decade meticulously crafting the story of Crocodile. Its plot revolves around the protagonist, Shan Wudan, and a crocodile he received as a gift for his birthday. Through an infinitely growing crocodile, the story digs into the complexity of human nature and explores the theme of "desire". During the launch event, Mo Yan expressed his lifelong connection with drama since childhood. "I've been a loyal drama fan since childhood. I've watched many dramas and opera works, and even played some small roles, which left a deep memory of the stage," said Mo. "Therefore, I feel like I should write several plays to repay what theater has brought to me." Wang Keran, the director of Crocodile, said: "Crocodile is an exceptionally rare script that I have came across in my more than 20 years' career in the theater industry." He noted that there is a special "protagonist" in the play  light. "Each character is chasing the light in their hearts," he says. The theatrical production of Crocodile features a star-studded cast, including Taiwan movie star Winston Chao, actress Zhang Kaili and veteran Hong Kong actress Sheren Tang. Chao, in his 60s, plays the role of protagonist Shan Wudan. He said: "I think the character I'm portraying is highly talented and ambitious, but he couldn't resist temptation, and in the end, he succumbed to his desires. Playing this role at my age, I feel I can truly understand it.'" Crocodile will tour around China from May to September, visiting cities including Suzhou, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Shanghai and Beijing.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse visit the Technical University of Civil Engineering of Bucharest (UTCB), January 21, 2024 - Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac

The Prime Minister took the occasion to recall the Viet Nam-Romania relations over the past nearly 75 years, highlighting the help that Romania gave Viet Nam during the time of national liberation in the past and national development later.

Romania actively worked to push the negotiations and signing of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement and the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Romania provided Viet Nam with 300,000 doses of vaccines.

Viet Nam, said the Prime Minister, treasures the traditional friendship and good cooperation with Romania and wants to enhance the bilateral cooperative ties, particularly in education-training.

He noted that Romania has so far trained about 4,000 Vietnamese students, with many of them later becoming leading scientists or holding high positions in the Vietnamese Party and State. The Prime Minister expressed his hope that Romania will grant more scholarships for Viet Nam.

The UTCB trained around 1,000 Vietnamese students from 1970-1980.

Since 2008 to now, five Vietnamese students have received scholarships under the two Governments agreement to study at the university. The university has signed with the University of Liege of Belgium and Thuy Loi University of Viet Nam a tripartite agreement on cooperation in research and training in civil engineering.

Prime Minister Pham said he hoped the UTCB will further promote cooperation in training and research with Vietnamese partners, contributing to the relations between Viet Nam and Romania.

The Vietnamese Government chief thanked generations of teachers and friends who had accompanied and helped him a lot at the university.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh is on an official visit to Romania from January 20-22 at an invitation of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu.

The visit is expected to create a new driving force to promote cooperation between the two countries in many fields, affirming Viet Nams wish to continue promoting and deepening its traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with the European country./.
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Former German Ambassador to Vietnam Rolf Schulze. (Photo: VNA)

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 Vietnam by Prime Minister Olaf Scholz.

Germany considers Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Ho Chi Minh 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 Vietnam.

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 Vietnams 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 sustainable 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 Vietnam, and Vietnam 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./.
Danish Khan is looking after Telecoms and Consumer Technology domains. He previously worked with the Economic Times.
Mehul R Thakkar is Special Correspondent, Moneycontrol, Indias leading financial news platform, based in Mumbai where he is focussed on covering the real estate sector.
PM Pham Minh Chinh speaks at the meeting with officials of Prahova and the Romanian county's Chamber of Commerce and Industry on January 21. (Photo: VNA)

Introducing the countys economic potential and opportunities of cooperation with Vietnam, 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 Vietnams 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam, 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 Vietnams 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 Vietnam and Romania are set to sign cooperation memoranda during his visit.

Vietnam 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 Vietnam has a population of about 100 million while Romania about 23 million, labour could be a new cooperation impulse. Besides, Vietnam 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.

Vietnam 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./.
Nalin Mehta NALIN MEHTA is Managing Editor, Moneycontrol and Non-Resident Senior Fellow at Institute of South Asian Studies, National University Singapore. He is the author of several bestselling and critically acclaimed books, including The New BJP, Modi and the Making of the Worlds Largest Political Party. His latest book is Indias Techade: Digital Revolution and Change in the Worlds Largest Democracy. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of the publication.
January 22, 2024 / 05:55 PM IST

- Women outnumber men by 67,028 in Manipur, as the final photo electoral roll of the northeastern state published on January 22.

- "Manipur recorded 20,26,623 electors with 9,79,678 men, 10,46,706 women and 239 third gender voters as per the final rolls for 2024," Chief Electoral Officer Pradeep Kumar Sha said in a statement.
Vice President of Vietnam Vo Thi Anh Xuan (left) talks to President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni in Kampala on January 20. (Photo: VNA)

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 with respect for international law.

Regarding economic cooperation, the two sides agreed to actively implement the outcomes of President Musevenis visit to Vietnam, increase the exchange of business delegations, work together to hold investment and trade promotion events, and improve agricultural cooperation effectiveness.

Museveni highly valued Vietnams 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation

Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at their meeting in Kampala on January 20 (Photo: VNA)

Talking to the UN Secretary-General, Xuan highly valued Guterress significant contributions to global peace, security, and development amid numerous challenges. She underlined Vietnams 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 Vietnam are 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, Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam, 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.

The meeting between Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and First Vice President of Iran Mohammad Mokhber in Kampala on January 20 (Photo: VNA)

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 Vietnam 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 Dinh 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 Vietnam - Iran Inter-governmental Committee to remove bottlenecks and facilitate economic, investment, and trade links.

Mokhber said his country always views Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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./.
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Mary Ellen Klas is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. Views do not represent the stand of this publication.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (left) and his Romanian counterpart Luminita Odobescu. (Photo: tuoitre.vn)

The two ministers noted with pleasure the strong developments of the bilateral relationship, and stressed the importance the two sides attach to their traditional friendship.

Son used the occasion to thank Romania for its support over the past time, especially during the negotiation and signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and Romanias early ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

The officials briefed each other on their respective countrys situation and achievements in external affairs, and highlighted the close, effective cooperation between the two ministries, both bilaterally and multilaterally.

They agreed to step up all-level contacts and delegation exchanges to foster mutual understanding and political trust, and deepen the traditional friendship and fruitful cooperation between the two countries across spheres.

They also consented to maintain the regular political consultation mechanism between the two ministries, early sign a new memorandum of understanding on cooperation, and continue coordinating their stance at regional and international forums.

The ministers concurred to work to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in economy, trade, labour, education-training, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchange.

Earlier, during PM Chinh's visit to Hungary, FM Son held talks with Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto in Budapest, during which they engaged in in-depth discussion on measures to boost the Vietnam-Hungary comprehensive partnership, especially in politics-diplomacy, economy-trade-investment, labour, culture and tourism, and support to Vietnamese in the host country.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto. (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

They agreed to increase delegation exchanges at all levels and in all channels, and rejoiced at the signing of an MoU between the two foreign ministries on this occasion.

Son thanked Hungary for supporting Vietnam during the negotiation and signing of the EVFTA and being the first EU member to ratify the EVIPA. He suggested that Hungary, which is scheduled to take over the six-month presidency in the second half of 2024, urge other EU members to ratify the agreement, and the EC to early remove its yellow card warning on Vietnamese seafood.

He suggested the two countries boost collaboration in traditional areas, particularly education-training, and culture-tourism, while expanding it in such potential fields as innovation, energy transition and digital transformation.

Szijjarto, for his part, called on Vietnamese businesses to scope out investment opportunities in Hungary, expressed his readiness to enhance cooperation in labour between the two countries.

Touching upon regional and international issues, they shared the view on the importance of handling disputes by peaceful measures, not using force or threatening to use force, and in line with international law./.
Sohil Sehran is a journalist with 10 years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital media. He covers politics and national affairs at Moneycontrol. He tweets @SohilSehran
Overseas remittances are the movement of money from overseas Vietnamese or from those working abroad to send to their relatives and families. In recent years, more and more overseas remittances have flowed into our country, bringing practical benefits such as offsetting the trade balance deficit and improving the quality of life of those receiving overseas remittances from abroad; increasing national foreign exchange reserves, creating more economic resources for the country, contributing to reducing imbalances in the balance of payments, improving foreign exchange reserves, and reducing pressure on the exchange rate of the US dollar.

Impressive figures

In August 2023, the World Bank predicted that overseas remittances sent to Vietnam would reach 14 billion USD in 2023. This is an important factor contributing to supporting Vietnam's current account surplus last year. However, according to the new data on overseas remittances of Ho Chi Minh City, the amount of overseas remittances for the whole country may exceed the World Bank's forecast.

The amount of overseas remittances transferred to Vietnam in 2023 increased by 25-30% compared to 2022 (Photo: congthuong.vn)

According to data from the Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the registered FDI capital in Vietnam in 2023 reached nearly 36.61 billion USD, an increase of 32.1% compared to 2022. The implemented FDI capital is estimated to reach about 23.18 billion USD, an increase of 3.5% compared to 2022. This is a record disbursement level. Thus, if the amount of overseas remittances to Vietnam as the forecast by the World Bank is 14 billion USD, it will be nearly half of the registered FDI capital. Previously in 2022, Vietnams overseas remittances reached a record of 19 billion USD, putting Vietnam in the top 10 countries in the world in receiving overseas remittances.

According to the State Commission for Overseas Vietnamese, the amount of overseas remittances to Vietnam from 1993 (the first year of overseas remittance statistics) to the end of 2022 reached over 190 billion USD, nearly equal to the amount of the disbursed FDI capital. In addition, by the end of 2022, overseas Vietnamese from 35 countries and territories invested in 385 FDI projects in 42 localities in Vietnam with a total registered capital of 1.72 billion USD, contributing to promoting socio-economic development, creating jobs for local workers and increasing tax revenue for the budget.

In the total amount of overseas remittances transferred to Vietnam every year, the United States leads because it has the largest number of Vietnamese immigrants living there; followed by the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. In terms of labor export, overseas remittances mainly come from Vietnams main labor export markets such as Japan, Republic of Korea, and Taiwan (China).

The World Bank forecasts that overseas remittances to Vietnam will continue to increase, in 2024 it will reach 14.4 billion USD, higher than in 2023. according to the estimations of the World Bank and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in the past three years, Vietnam has received on average up to 17 - 18 billion USD in overseas remittances each year. In the past 10 years, overseas remittances have become a bright spot in Vietnam.

In spite of being impacted by many factors, while some years the flow of overseas remittances to Vietnam has also decreased following the general trend of other countries, it still maintains its position in the top 10 countries with the largest amount of overseas remittances in the world and in top 3 countries receiving the most overseas remittances in the Asia-Pacific region.

Some policies to attract overseas remittances

The overseas Vietnamese community currently has about 6 million people in 130 countries and territories around the world, of which more than 80% are in developed countries. The number of Vietnamese people going abroad to study, work, get married and invest, continues to increase.

Overseas Vietnamese continue to maintain strong links with their homeland, promoting their role as an important resource in the country's development process.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with representatives of the Vietnamese community

in the US in September 2023 (Photo: VNA)

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang said that in all high-level visits of Vietnamese leaders and in contacts with leaders of other countries, there is always content related to the Vietnamese community abroad. Even though time is tight when working abroad, senior leaders always make time to meet with overseas Vietnamese community in the host country.

The Deputy Minister emphasized that overseas Vietnamese are a great resource of the country, they are able to contribute and share experiences in many fields.

In recent years, the Government has issued policies to encourage and create conditions for overseas Vietnamese to feel secure to invest or do business in the homeland as well as to transfer money to invest or support their relatives such as procedures related to overseas Vietnamese and overseas remittances have been amended and supplemented in order to be suitable to the new situation; feedback and support to overseas Vietnamese through Vietnamese representative agencies in countries have been made. In particular, the Law on Real Estate Business recently passed by the National Assembly, which will take effect on January 1, 2025, means that overseas Vietnamese will be able to invest and do real estate business like domestic citizens./.
While upholding orders passed by fora below, the national consumer disputes redressal commission (NCDRC) directed Maruti Suzuki India Ltd to pay a compensation of Rs1 lakh for advertising misleading claims about the fuel efficiency of its Zen car. In the advertisement, Maruti Suzuki claimed a mileage of 16km-18km per litre of fuel under city conditions, while the buyer registered an average mileage of just 10.2km per litre of petrol.

In an order last week , the NCDRC bench of Dr Inder Jit Singh (presiding member) says, "Normally, a prospective purchaser of a car enquires into the fuel efficiency feature of the car as an important aspect and makes a comparative study of different brands/cars in the same segment with respect to their respective fuel efficiency...We have carefully gone through the advertisement dated 20 October 2004 in this regard, and are of the considered view that it is a misleading advertisement. Issuance of such advertisement amounts to unfair trade practice on the part of manufacturer and dealer."

New Delhi-based Rajiv Sharma bought a Maruti Zen car from DD Motors, based on the vehicle's reported excellent performance with a mileage of 16km-18km per litre of fuel under city conditions. This claim was substantiated by an advertisement published in the Times of India on 20 October 2004.

However, Mr Sharma alleges that the vehicle has not achieved the promised or advertised mileage, registering an average mileage of only 10.2km per litre of petrol. His attempts to address this concern by visiting the dealer on 26 June 2004 and subsequently visiting another dealer did not improve the vehicle's mileage. He then corresponded with Maruti Suzuki, the manufacturer, but received no resolution to his grievance.

Dissatisfied with the lack of improvement in mileage and inadequate responses from the parties involved, Mr Sharma, the complainant, approached the district consumer disputes redressal forum VI, New Delhi, seeking remedies, including a refund of the vehicle's purchase cost, along with interest, registration expenses, and insurance totalling Rs4 lakh.

While allowing the complaint, the district forum awarded a compensation of Rs1 lakh to Mr Sharma. The appeal filed by Maruti Suzuki was also dismissed by the Delhi state consumer disputes redressal commission.

Maruti Suzuki then approached NCDRC. It contended that the state commission overlooked various factors influencing fuel economy, crucial for achieving the represented mileage under specific conditions.

"The advertised mileage of 16.7kms per litre, based on a magazine report, differs from the content of the letter, which advises on optimising mileage. Mileage is inherently variable, influenced by various factors, as established in prior cases, and the reliance on petrol receipts alone lacks sufficient evidence for asserting low mileage. The finding of an unfair trade practice under Section 2(1)(r) of the Consumer Protection Act doesn't align with the case's pleaded facts, rendering the conclusion perverse," it added.

The counsel for Mr Sharma argued that in the revision petition, Maruti Suzuki is seeking a re-evaluation of facts. "Maruti Suzuki initially acknowledged the advertisement's basis as 'Auto Car India' before the district consumer forum. Consequently, the district consumer forum categorised the claim as an 'unfair trade practice' and directed Maruti Suzuki to conduct authentic fuel efficiency tests and disclose the margin of error in future advertisements. However, in their appeal before the state commission, Maruti Suzuki altered their stance, distancing themselves from the advertisement's publication by disowning it."

After going through the orders passed by fora below, other relevant records and rival contentions of the parties, NCDRC highlighted some paras from the orders of the state commission and district forum. The district forum observed, "...the advertisement floated by Maruti Suzuki highlighted mileage efficiency simply to promote sales. The fine print showing the source of Auto Car India study is simply deceptive. The print was so small that it was not readable. Maruti Suzuki has thus adopted the 'mileage' to its advantage and without clarifying to the customers that it had not vouchsafed the accuracy."

While dismissing the appeal, the state commission stated, "...the claim of the mileage of 16.7kms per litre was made to the public at large prior to the purchase in question...Before parting it may be mentioned here that Maruti Suzuki in its advertisement got printed the relevant lines in a very fine print. On the contrary, the claim of 16.7kms per litre in respect of mileage is given in bold print. To the reader, it gives an impression that it is the Maruti Suzuki alone making the aforesaid claim."

Dr Singh from NCDRC noted that car manufacturers and their authorised dealers attract their prospective clients with advertisements, either through print media or otherwise, including oral assurance, with a particular fuel efficiency of their car in terms of mileage per kilometre. "No doubt such claims are based on tests done in certain specified or ideal conditions and subject to observance of certain conditions, but in normal real-life situations, it is difficult to achieve such ideal conditions. Hence, while some variation from the notified fuel efficiency is understandable when such variation is large, the purchaser of such cars feels aggrieved or cheated."

"It is essential that where car manufacturers and dealers make any claims about the fuel efficiency of their cars, they should clearly specify all such test conditions under which such results were achieved and indicate the broad range of fuel efficiency likely to be achieved in normal condition of driving in city, highway and/or mix of both. They should also disclose the source of such test results, period when it was done and who funded such test studies, mentioning specifically whether such test or study was funded by the manufacturer or dealer, whether partly or fully," NCDRC said, while upholding the order passed by the state commission.

(Revision Petition No2132 of 2016 Date: 17 January 2024)
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. Its 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 cant help you.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
Overseas Vietnamese in Argentina celebrate the Lunar New Year Festival (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Duong Quoc Thanh said that in 2023, Vietnam-Argentina relations witnessed steps of development with the high-level visit of National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The year 2024 is expected to see many important visits by Vietnamese leaders, and representatives from ministries, and localities to Argentina to further promote potential for cooperation between the two countries.

According to the Ambassador, the Vietnamese community in Argentina numbers about 230 people, mostly living in northern Argentina and Buenos Aires province. Recently, many of them have returned to their homeland on the occasion of the Tet festival.

At the event, overseas Vietnamese in the Latin American country watched a video featuring Vietnams socio-economic development achievements and Vietnamese people while enjoying traditional Vietnamese dishes during the Tet festival.

The Vietnamese community in Argentina has about 230 people living in the Northern region and Buenos Aires province./.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh meets with staff members of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives from the Vietnamese community in Romania in Bucharest on January 20. (Photo: VNA)

The Vietnamese community in Romania numbers more than 600. They are united and help each other to stable their lives and look towards the homeland, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Romania Do Duc Thanh.

The embassy and the community always pay attention to educate the young generation and work to maintain the teaching and learning of Vietnamese language, he added.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh conveyed the greetings of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to the Vietnamese community in Romania in particular and Europe in general.

He recalled major milestones in Vietnam  Romania relations, including the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, the visit of President Ho Chi Minh to Romania in 1957, as well as Romanias provision of 300,000 doses of vaccines and medical equipment to Vietnam 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 Vietnams 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 Vietnam and its people, contribute to the traditional friendship between the two countries, to build a united and strong community, and make practical contributions to Vietnams national construction and development./.
IT&E has contributed $3,000 to the Saipan Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Person of the Year Gala, which is set for Jan. 27 at Kensington Hotel.
Belgian Patricia Lefranc, victim and survivor of an acid attack in 2009, poses for Reuters at the occasion of launching of a new campaign by charity Acid Survivors Trust International, highlighted by a fashion look book "Tear Couture" by British photographer Rankin, aiming to highlight the link between the textiles industry and incidences of acid attacks, in Nivelles, Belgium, Jan. 16, 2024.
The Legislature, at the funeral of Sinajana Vice Mayor Rudy D. Iriarte on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in the central village, presents to his family a posthumous resolution recognizing his service.
Reporter

Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post.
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., speaks to reporters after a weekly policy luncheon with Senate Democrats at the U.S. Capitol Building on June 7, 2023, in Washington, D.C.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer seen prior to the NFC Divisional Playoff game between the Detroit Lions and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, in Detroit.
A performance at the gathering in the US. (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to the US Nguyen Quoc Dung reviewed outstanding achievements of Vietnams socio-economic development and the Vietnam-US relations in 2023.

The Ambassador hailed the Vietnamese community's contributions to the countrys achievements and hoped that the community will keep growing, strengthening its solidarity and serving as a bridge that helped foster the Vietnam-US relations.

At the event, participants enjoyed art performances performed by overseas Vietnamese students and people and traditional Vietnamese dishes on Tet./.
Peruvian police carry out the transfer of several members of the Tren de Aragua criminal organization in Lima, Peru, on Oct. 5, 2023.
Bulan Wu, associate professor of chemistry, who has a doctorate in organic chemistry, inserts a substance into a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer for separation and identification of its chemical elements.
A Guam Police Department shoulder patch is seen on an officer's uniform on Dec. 6, 2023, in Dededo.
Specialties of Vietnam's regions introduced at the event (Photo: VNA)

During the event, participants enjoyed performances of lion dance and Vietnamese martial arts, a show of ao dai (a traditional costume of Vietnam), and traditional dishes, among others.

On this occasion, the APCV celebrated its 5th anniversary and introduced a new logo bearing the image of a flying Lac bird, an image often seen on Vietnamese bronze drums.

The APCV also received the official decision to establish the Ao Dai Heritage Club in France, in the presence of Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang, District 20 Mayor Eric Pliez, and Standing Vice President of Vietnam Ao Dai Heritage Club Hoang Thi Ngoc Mai.

At the event, Professor Phan Van Truong, Vice President of the Foundation to Honour the Vietnamese Language and the National Language, introduced overseas Vietnamese and French friends about the history of the Vietnamese language.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Eric Pliez said that he believes culture is the factor that connects people, and District 20 is proud to have a rich and diverse culture brought by many foreign communities including the Vietnamese.

Appreciating the contribution of Vietnamese people to the local cultural diversity, he believed that the Vietnamese community will continue to promote its unique strength and cultural values.

Vietnamese Ambassador to France Dinh Toan Thang said that the event is a success as it brings together many representatives of Vietnamese associations, overseas Vietnamese and French friends.

Over the past five years, the APCV made efforts to honour Vietnamese culture in France, with unique initiatives, and received great support from the Vietnamese community and French friends, the Ambassador emphasized.

Founded in January 2019, the APCV has its headquarters in Paris and three branches in San Francisco (the US), Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. It gathers more than 200 members who are Vietnamese people and foreigners living in five countries, namely France, the US, Sweden, Japan, and Vietnam./.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  A California judge says a nearly 65-year-old law does not give the state permission to borrow the billions of dollars it would need to build a large water project, a decision that could threaten a key source of funding for a controversial plan backed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to build a massive underground tunnel that would reroute a big part of the states supply.

The Department of Water Resources approved a resolution in 2020 to borrow money for an unspecified Delta Program. The agency said it could borrow this money without asking for permission from the state Legislature because a law, last amended in 1959, says it can make changes to a portion of the State Water Project  a complex system of dams and canals that supplies water to about 27 million people.

But environmental groups and several Central Valley counties say that resolution was too broad. They say what the agency wants to build is a tunnel that would be outside the scope of the law. DWRs latest proposal is to construct a tunnel about 45 miles (72 kilometers) long and 36 feet (10.9 meters) wide, able to carry 161 million gallons of water per minute out of the Central Valley and to the densely populated southern portion of the state.

On Tuesday, after years of lengthy court proceedings, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Kenneth C. Mennemeier agreed with the counties. He said the states definition of the project leaves the door open for the state to build whatever it wants, which he said is not allowed under the law.

Although the Legislature plainly delegated broad authority to DWR, it did not delegate infinite authority, Mennemeier wrote.

Mennemeier emphasized that his ruling was quite narrow, only applying to the Newsom administrations unspecified Delta Program as defined in the DWR resolution.

Thomas Keeling, an attorney who represents six counties and various public water agencies, said its clear to him that the purpose of the bond resolutions approved by the Newsom administration in 2020 was to provide financing for the Delta tunnel project. He agreed the ruling is narrow because it doesnt prevent the administration from finding other ways to pay for the project.

That said, it would be a mistake to downplay the significance of this decision or to understate the obstacles that lie ahead for DWR in any subsequent effort to finance this taxpayer boondoggle, he said.

Environmental groups and counties that oppose the project cheered the ruling as a blow to the tunnels financing. The projects price tag was once put at $16 billion, but that was an old estimate for a previous plan. The state has not released updated estimates.

The DWR downplayed the significance of the ruling, although it said it disagreed with the decision and is considering an appeal. Margaret Mohr, deputy director of communications for the department, said the judge essentially rejected the broadness of the definition of the Delta Program and did not make a ruling specific to the tunnel.

The judge has not said that DWR doesnt have the authority to build the project or borrow money to pay for it, Mohr said. Mohr added that the Delta Conveyance Project is a critical part of Californias strategy to ensure a reliable water supply for millions of Californians  modernizing our water infrastructure to protect against the impacts of earthquakes, climate change, and more.

The tunnel has been proposed  and disputed  for many years, earning widespread opposition from Central Valley communities that say it would harm their economies and the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Deltas fragile ecosystem. The Newsom administration says the tunnel is a necessary upgrade of aging infrastructure that would help the state capture more water during intense rainstorms.

Its not clear what other options the Department of Water Resources could pursue to pay for the project. Asking for approval from voters or the state Legislature would be difficult. Just last year, lawmakers insisted on exempting the tunnel project from a law Newsom signed aimed at speeding up how long it takes to build large infrastructure projects.

Newsom, however, has been steadfast in his support for the project. Last month, his administration completed a key environmental review  the final step of a lengthy state regulatory process. But the project still must complete a federal environmental review and obtain various state and federal permits  a process that is expected to last until 2026.

By ADAM BEAM

Associated Press
President Joe Biden View Photo

President Biden issued a Statement regarding his Administration approving $5 billion in additional student debt cancellation.

Biden was Mondays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here is the statement:

Today, my Administration approved debt cancellation for another 74,000 student loan borrowers across the country, bringing the total number of people who have gotten their debt cancelled under my Administration to over 3.7 million Americans through various actions.

Of the 74,000 borrowers approved for relief today, nearly 44,000 of them are teachers, nurses, firefighters and other individuals who earned forgiveness after 10 years of public service, and close to 30,000 of them are people who have been in repayment for at least 20 years but never got the relief they earned through income-driven repayment plans. My Administration is able to deliver relief to these borrowers  and millions more  because of fixes we made to broken student loan programs that were preventing borrowers from getting relief they were entitled to under the law.

Todays announcement comes on top of all weve been able to achieve for students and student loan borrowers in the past few years. This includes: achieving the largest increases in Pell Grants in over a decade to help families who earn less than roughly $60,000 a year; fixing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program so that borrowers who go into public service get the debt relief theyre entitled to under the law; and creating the most generous Income-Driven Repayment plan in history  the SAVE plan. Borrowers can go to studentaid.gov to apply. And, in the wake of the Supreme Courts decision on our student debt relief plan, we are continuing to pursue an alternative path to deliver student debt relief to as many borrowers as possible as quickly as possible.

From Day One of my Administration, I vowed to improve the student loan system so that a higher education provides Americans with opportunity and prosperity  not unmanageable burdens of student loan debt. I wont back down from using every tool at our disposal to get student loan borrowers the relief they need to reach their dreams.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.
On January 21st, carrying the expectations and entrustment of the people of the province, and with a strong commitment to fulfilling their duties in accordance with the law, the deputies attending the second session of the 14th Anhui Provincial People's Congress arrived in Hefei and registered at the congress. The upcoming second session of the 14th Anhui Provincial People's Congress is a major event in the political life of the people of the entire province and holds significant importance in further mobilizing the whole province and strengthening development confidence. The deputies deeply feel the honor and weight of their mission, and have carefully prepared their proposals and suggestions in their accommodations. The deputies believe that 2023 is the starting year for fully implementing the spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, as well as the year for economic recovery and development following the period of three years of COVID-19 prevention and control. The people of the province have overcome difficulties and promoted sustained economic recovery, achieved new breakthroughs in scientific and technological innovation, made important progress in the construction of a modern industrial system, accelerated the release of dividends from the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta, advanced reforms and opening up in depth, effectively ensured and improved people's well-being, continuously improved the quality of the ecological environment, prevented and defused risks, and are expected to achieve the main targets for economic and social development, presenting an outstanding performance in high-quality development. Facing a new journey, the deputies are inspired and determined to fulfill their statutory responsibilities, exercise their democratic rights correctly, strictly abide by the disciplines of the congress, and complete the tasks of the congress with high standards and high quality, contributing greater strength to accelerating the construction of a modern and beautiful Anhui.

Source: anhuinews.com
Vice President of Vietnam Vo Thi Anh Xuan speaks at a plenary session of the 19th NAM Summit in Kampala, Uganda, on January 20. (Photo: VNA)

In her speech, Xuan affirmed NAMs leading role in upholding international law, consolidating multilateralism, promoting disarmament, reducing inequality at economic and financial institutions, considerably contributing to the settlement of global issues.

She expressed her belief that with 120 member states representing nearly 60% of the worlds population and about 20% of the global GDP, the movement will continue promoting solidarity in a divided world.

The Vice President of Vietnam suggested that to keep bringing into play the role of NAM, member countries should have a common voice to resolve global challenges and object to the actions running counter to the principles of peace and independence. They should show the solidarity with the Palestinian people and call for the removal of unilateral sanctions and embargoes against Cuba and other member states.

Besides, in the spirit of solidarity in diversity, Xuan asked NAM to respect the viewpoints and protect the interests of its members. She appealed to the movement to continue respecting and supporting efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the purposes of peace, security, and stability in the East Sea and Southeast Asia, and step up the settlement of disputes by peaceful means on the basis of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

To maximise the cooperation potential of NAM, members should make better use of connection channels to improve their economic independence and self-reliance and enhance cooperation for development, she remarked.

Vice President Xuan said that to help realise NAMs common values and aspirations about integration, peace, and prosperity around the globe, Vietnam has joined other regional countries in building an increasingly strong ASEAN Community and strengthen ASEANs centrality in the Asia-Pacific and other regional mechanisms.

It has exerted efforts to work with other NAM members to respond to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, humanitarian crises, and non-traditional security challenges like climate change and food insecurity, she went on, affirming Vietnams commitment to contributing more to the common cause of NAM and developing countries for the sake of humanitys progress, peace, wealth, and happiness.

During the two-day 19th NAM Summit, participating leaders adopted three important documents, namely the final document reflecting the movements viewpoints on international and regional issues, the Kampala Declaration reaffirming NAMs principles and values, and a statement about Palestine demonstrating the solidarity with the Palestinian people.

At the event, South Sudan was admitted to NAM, the first new member of the movement in 30 years./.
THERE has been overwhelming online praise and support for Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa after his decision to take the BBC head on and dismiss the damaging documentary the powerful media organisation made on the late Prophet TB Joshua.

The UFI leader said it was not the BBCs job to try and judge the late Nigerian televangelist and the basing judgment on videos, which can be edited to suit a certain agenda, meant the documentary failed to prove that TB Joshua had no power, faked miracles or was involved in rituals and x crimes.

A lot of things can happen, events can change, I do not remember if there was any prophet who gave international prophecies like TB Joshua, said Prophet Makandiwa.

He was the first to give recorded international prophecies.

If there is anyone who claims to have made such prophecies (they) must show us the videos.

Most people that I know, who consider themselves as prophets, they use physical means to get information about people using physical, natural sources or sending people to collect information, sending people for counselling or from a cell group to collect information.

Some prophets use information that they get from people and such prophets do not engage in rituals to get information.

You do not need to cut the head of a man and you take out his heart and you eat it raw so that you can get information from social media about a person, the two do not go together.

I am educating you, teaching you in case next time you want to attack a man, make sure that you are reasonable.

He added:

Even Nigeria and the government confirm that Prophet TB Joshua was a religious attraction, contributed much to the countrys economy and some claim that such a person had no power.

If he did anything in his prophecies or editing, I would not discredit a man of God because he removed something from his prophecies, God removed a lot of things and is the one who started the editing.

God does not give someone everything, he remains with other information.

Its not everything that you see in the spiritual realm that He tells you to disclose, even the Bible was edited and we were given 66 books.

Verses and chapters were not in the Canon Scripture and some of the books were added.

Try to appeal to logic, make sense of what you are saying next time, I do not want to believe that charms give a prophet information when he has disciples.

I am saying this so that next time, if you want to destroy someone, try to do a better job than this.

Anytime when you want to destroy someone, sacrifice one side and leave the other because not all of his miracles were fake.

The rituals were for what, after all his church is not the biggest in Nigeria and in terms of membership. He had few members in Nigeria as compared to other leaders with many members but not accused of any rituals.

If he was drinking peoples blood for a long life he could not have died, give us the reason for the rituals.

And, there has been overwhelming support for prophet Makandiwa online and here are some of the comments:

***

The legacy of Jesus Christ through the life of Prophet TB Joshua and other genuine servants of God lives on forever.  Evangelist_Simbarashe_Sabau.

***

This is wisdom! This manner of analysis is wisdom. This is wisdom dissecting session. Thank you for being genuine Prophet.  @jeanninekriesel993.

***

This wisdom is what this world needs.  @rosalindfavour8190.

***

Wow, heavenly wisdom on its level, thank you so much our Prophet.  @sylviamaite5416.

***

How he manages to maintain composure, calm and neutrality should be an area of study, I am blessed to be part of the generation that you speak to.  @deardiary824.

***

Success makes fathers but failure makes orphans, so profound.  @psalmisthubertc2742

***

This level of wisdom can only be from a hallowed vessel. Thanks sir for the enlightenment. Unbiased analysis.  @nelsonayebillaatubilla1756.

***

This is so honest and deep! Thank you Jesus.  @reginaldodoi706.

***

Thats true, Prophet TB started that move of giving international prophecies.  @haggailongwe6190.

***

Zimbabwe is BLESSED to have Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa! He is literally one of the wisest men Ive ever heard speak. Greetings from Nigeria.  @joyceobiakor.

***

Prophet TB Joshua, Prophet Samuel Kakande our Daddy. From India.  @chirujason9812.

***

Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa thank you. We needed this teaching not just to get clarity but we as Christians tend to relax and forget the goal is heaven. Eye-opening thank you man of God.  @rachelangel163. HMetro.

Breaking News via Email
THE Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) has released the 2023 November results for the Ordinary Level today.Addressing journalists, Zimsec board chairperson Professor Eddie Mwenje said the results will be accessible at the Zimsec portal at 1500 hours today for the next five days.

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council Board and Management would like to advise the nation of the release of the 2023 November Ordinary Level examination results, he said.

With effect from today, 22 January 2024, 1500hrs, Ordinary Level Examination Candidates results will be accessible to all Candidates and authorised personnel online through the ZIMSEC portal accessed through the ZIMSEC Website.

Please take note that this portal will be open for 5 days only. Heads of Examination Centres will be able to collect the results for their respective schools/centres from our Regional Offices on Monday, 22 January 2024 (today).

Breaking News via Email
Zimbabwe has experienced a surge in prices of basic commodities, particularly food items, as the value of the Zimbabwe dollar continues to decline against the US dollar.

The introduction of a new 15% value-added tax (VAT) on January 1, 2024, as part of the 2024 National Budget presented by Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube, has further contributed to the rise in prices of essential goods such as bread, milk, sugar, soap, and cooking oil. The increase in prices is evident, with bread prices surpassing the US$1 mark to reach US$1.30, a level not seen since 2018 when it was priced at US$1.10.

Despite the governments efforts to prevent a price surge by reviewing its tax regime earlier this month, a recent survey conducted by NewsDay in Harare and Goromonzi revealed that prices of basic commodities have increased in both Zimbabwean dollar and US dollar terms. For example, the cost of a loaf of bread, previously priced at ZWL$7,818, has risen to ZWL$11,000. Similarly, a 2kg bag of flour has increased from ZWL$22,499 to $26,600, and a 2kg packet of rice now costs ZWL$27,599, up from ZWL$21,745.

In US dollar terms, bread is now retailing between US$1.10 and US$1.30, sugar at US$3, and cooking oil at over US$3.50, depending on the brand. The price hikes have been attributed to increased taxes and the depreciation of the Zimbabwean dollar, which now trades at ZWL$14,500 on the black market and ZWL$9,000 on the official market against the US dollar. The devaluation of the currency is a reflection of the loss of confidence in the local currency, leading to a high demand for foreign currency.

Breaking News via Email
Despite the Western media effort to downplay the South Africa case before the International Court of Justice charging Israel with violating the Genocide Convention, the action is still getting a fair bit of play. To recap, South Africa is seeking provisional measures to bar Israel from committing genocide while the Court considers a full case. We list these nine provisional measures at the end of the post. We have embedded the three key documents, the initial South Africa written filing, called in ICJ speak an application, the South Africa oral argument, and the Israel oral argument, in a separate post.

These provisional measures are analogous to a temporary restraining order in the US context, to prevent imminent harm since a final decision would by (in this instance) years away. The ICJ is expected to issue its ruling in the next one to three weeks.

Despite the considerable commentary on this legal action, there seems a comparative dearth of discussion on how the court might rule and why. Mind you, it isnt as if various commentators have not addressed considerable elements of the case, but I have yet to see an effort at a through treatment (admittedly a post from Lawfare comes close but does not consider some of the procedural questions, or the pressures on the judges). As a non-lawyer and a non-expert in this particular sort of dispute, I am relying on the input of others with domain knowledge, so further commentary welcome.

The very short version of what follows is:

The ICJ can reject the South Africa case, can accept it but not order provisional measures, can pick and choose among the provisional measures South Africa called for, can modify some or all of the suggested provisions measures or even implement its own. Virtually all commentators have punted on the issue we focused on in our earlier post,1 that Israel had claimed there was a serious procedural problem with the South Africa action. Even though the Israel presentation of this issue was weak and screechy (in keeping with the caliber of its oral argument), a careful reading of the South Africa oral argument and its filing says Israel may indeed have a point. And if your humble blogger could find these deficiencies, the odds seem high an Israel-friendly jurist could too. There is a question, very much over my pay grade, as to whether South Africa could refile. The analogy to similar grounds for dismissal in Anglosphere cases suggests it should be able to, but that would considerably dent the credibility of South Africa (in terms of care in going about such a serious charge) and also delay any relief in Gaza.2

The supporters of the South Africa case contend it would damage the credibility of the court if it were to fail to implement any provisional measures. That is why Norman Finkelstein has suggested that one way for the court to compromise would be to order some but not all provisional measures. My belief is that the court will not be willing to impose the two provisional measures that amount to imposing a ceasefire on Israel. The court would seem hard-pressed to reject Israels contention that Hamas is not a party to the Genocide Convention, so to require only Israel to put down its arms would amount to inviting a full-bore Hamas onslaught.

As for the prestige of the court, sadly in our neoliberal world what is likely to matter more is the prestige of the individual judges in their home countries. And we are seeing loud arguments (admittedly here from a media organ that is in the can for Israel) that the prestige of the court arguments go against finding for South Africa. From the Economist in Charging Israel with genocide makes a mockery of the ICJ (hat tip furzy):

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 [sic] 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.

It is astonishing to see the depth of belief among Israel-defenders, even with orthodox outlets like CNN conceding in a headline last week Hundreds of thousands are starving in Gaza as famine arrives at incredible speed, UN aid chief warns. But that view is likely to animate some of the ICJ jurists.

The other wee prestige of the court problem the ICJ has no enforcement powers. It would take UN action (which the US is sure to veto) or measures by states, individually or acting in concert.3 And Netanyahu has already said hed defy any ICJ adverse ICJ decision.

Prejudices of and Pressures on the Judges

The fifteen regular judges for the ICJ now consist of representatives from four of the five permanent members of the Security Council, the US, China, Russia, and France, and eleven other judges, from Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Jamaica, Japan, Lebanon, Morocco, Slovakia, Somalia, Uganda (see here; (Craig Murray mentions in passing that the General Assembly succeeding in replacing the UK ICJ judge with one from India was a Big Deal; it will be even more so if against the odds, South Africa gets any provisional measures approved; new judges must get a majority vote from both the Security Council and the UN as a whole) . They are joined by two ad hoc judges sworn in for this case, one from Israel and and one from South Africa (each party to a case has the right to appoint a judge if they do not already have a national representative on the panel). We will refrain from discussing the Israel ad hoc judge, Aharon Barak, save to point out that as an Israel Supreme Court judge, he has consistently treated everything the IDF said as gospel and has supported the defiance of past ICJ rulings. He could wind up being a small net plus for South Africa by overplaying his hand.

Deciding a question in favor of the plaintiff requires a majority. So an abstention is tantamount to a vote for Israel.

Norman Finkelstein, in counting noses before the hearing, argued that France was 50/50, and that Russia and China were unlikely to vote for South Africa. Finkelstein argued neither country would want to open the Genocide Convention can of worms (any ruling that lowered the bar could be turned against them). Russia has also been pointedly staying as far away as possible from the Gaza controversy, when they would have been expected to clear their throats by now and disapprove of Israels actions in Gaza. Remember that as Finkelstein put it, Germany never met a genocide it didnt like. Germany was quick to say it would intervene in the case in support of Israel in the trial phase. Finkelstein also pointed out that Uganda always sides with Israel.

The odds of France siding with South Africa appear to have since dropped after the French Foreign Minister lambasted the South Africa case. From Middle East Monitor:

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne has suggested that Paris may not accept the International Court of Justice (ICJ)s ruling against Israel for genocide, because it crosses a moral threshold. To accuse the Jewish state of genocide is to cross a moral threshold, Sejourne said. The notion of genocide cannot be exploited for political ends. This has always been our position.

Despite some criticism within the EU, there has been no walkback.

Before you contend that these ICJ judges are, or at least could be, independent, remember that they are not appointed for life, unlike US Federal Court judges. Judges whose terms expire in 2027 or 2030 are from Slovakia, France, Somalia, China, Uganda, India, Lebanon, Japan, Judge Georg Nolte Germany and Brazil. While some ICJ judges are re-elected, that is not a sure bet.

So all these judges, unless they plan to retire, have to assume they are going back to normal life in their home countries. You dont have to go down the ex-CIA analyst Ray McGovern/Larry Johnson line of thinking, that the US will be out to alert any possible wrong-thinking judge of kompromat that could be made public. If any of these judges are in the Collective West power structure (and the ones in those countries have to be to get into the ICJ in the first place), the judges likely know well of how an unwelcome decision could cost them: childrens applications to elite schools rejected. A spouse in a professional services business (say law or consulting) sees his clients disappear.

Finkelstein underscored this idea in a later interview, the last in a four part series on the Connections Podcast on Jadaliyya, after both sides had made their oral arguments. At 19:10, he explained that pretty much every government had taken sides for or against Israel, and it would be very difficult for a judge to buck his government. Finkelstein discussed the case of Richard Goldstone, whose career was ruined when his 2009 report to the UN found both Israel and Palestine had committed war crimes.

Remember that was 2009. Cancel culture is much more open and vicious than it was then.

Craig Murray, one of the only 14 who secured a seat in the ICJ gallery to watch the hearings live, noted how uncomfortable the judges seemed and how eager they were when Israel brought up possible procedural escape hatches. From his write-up of South Africas oral argument:

The South African delegation was buoyant and mutually supporting, with a lot of inclusive body language and comparative animation. The Israeli delegation was the opposite of animated. It appeared severe and disdainful You would not think from the body language it was Israel that stands accused. In fact the only people in the court whose demeanour was particularly dodgy and guilty were the judges. They absolutely looked like they really did not want to be there. They seemed deeply uncomfortable, fidgeted and fumbled papers a lot, and seldom looked directly at the lawyers speaking. It occurred to me that the people who really did not want to be in the Court at all were the judges, because it is in fact the judges and the Court itself on trial. The fact of genocide is incontrovertible and had been plainly set out. But several of the judges are desperate to find a way to please the USA and Israel and avoid countering the current Zionist narrative, the adoption of which is necessary to keep your feet comfortably under the table of the elite.

And from Murrays second day write-up:

He [Malcolm Shaw] argued that South Africa could not bring this case and the ICJ had no jurisdiction, because there was no dispute between Israel and South Africa on which the ICJ could rule This very much interested the judges. As I noted on day one, this got them more active than anything else when Professor John Dugard addressed the same point for South Africa. As I reported: The judges particularly enjoyed Dugards points, enthusiastically rustling through documents and underlining things. Dealing with thousands of dead children was a bit difficult for them, but give them a nice jurisdictional point and they were in their element. They were even more excited when Shaw tackled the same point. This gave them a way out! The case could be technically invalid, and then they would neither have to upset the major Western powers nor make fools of themselves by pretending that a genocide the whole world had seen was not happening. For a while, they looked visibly relieved.

In other words, the prestige that is really at stake is that of the individual judges. And not in a good way.

The Courts Key Choices

The South Africa filing and presentation was overwhelming in depicting the unprecedented level of civilian deaths in Gaza, the destruction of infrastructure and hospitals, food shortages approaching starvation, and the many statements by Israeli officials of their intent to eliminate Palestinians from Gaza. You would think there was no other side. And by comparison, the Israel oral arguments (they did not submit a written filing before the hearing) seemed shrill, of the pound the table school of lawyering, although if you read Israeli official statements, they use that register an awful lot.

However, as Murray pointed out above, many of the judges would be happier if they didnt have to decide the case on its merits, but could use procedural problems to dodge this bullet. Israel raised two, and in my humble opinion, did a very lazy and sloppy on the one that is their best shot, the matter of whether South Africa had initiated a dispute before it went to court. Note that again as Murray made clear, judges very much like dealing with legal arguments, so there is good reason to think, as with judges in other court systems, these jurists make their own determination and will not rely merely on the arguments made by each party.

Even though this court is more akin to an arbitration panel than an Anglosphere court, and thus can be forgiving on matters of procedure, it has to be mindful of the requirements of the Genocide Convention in addition to the dispute requirement. Per Jus Mundi:

Generally, the requesting party must satisfy the following requirements (specific analysis and case law on each requirement is available via the below hyperlinked cross-references): prima facie jurisdiction of the tribunal; prima facie existence of a right susceptible of protection; necessity of the measure requested; urgency of the measure requested; and proportionality of the measure requested.

The South African side made a long and persuasive argument that the Genocide Convention imposed obligations on signatories to stop and prevent genocide, even if their country was not directly affected by it, and its lawyers marched point by point through the requirements of the Conventionexcept oddly proportionality.

One of Israels arguments amounted to Yeah, even if you think we did something, you should be invoking a different body of law. Lawfare discussed this notion with respect to the provisional measures that would require Israel to cease military operations, but IMHO Israel intended for it to apply generally:

This is the hole in South Africas case that makes an order to suspend military operations doubtful. South Africa condemned the Oct. 7 attacks and hostage taking by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, but it did not fully engage with the consequences of Hamass continuing military operations, including rocket barrages fired at Israel. It was almost as if South Africa had decided with its lawyers: Dont mention the war. Israel by contrast talked of little else. And it spoke the legal language of war, otherwise known as international humanitarian law: precautions in attack, warnings, military targets, confronting human shielding, and legal assessments of proportionality. South Africa was able to bring this case because of the compromissory clause in the Genocide Convention, which gives the ICJ jurisdiction to hear disputes between parties over the conventions application. Israel, however, argued that it was IHL (the law of armed conflict) that was the appropriate law for regulating the conduct of hostilitiesincluding hostilities with an enemy that itself flagrantly violated that lawand that provided the proper framework for balancing military necessity with humanitarian considerations.

In other words, Lawfare didnt take Israels jurisdiction handwave seriously, but still concludes (as we surmised) that the court is extremely unlikely to order Israel to halt military operations in Gaza. The proportionality requirement in the Genocide Convention suffices.

Now to the dispute over the dispute.

As we warned in our earlier post, South Africa looks to have muffed the notification to Israel of a dispute under the Genocide Convention. And this is not based on Israels assertions, which amounts to a lame argument, We never answered so there was no dispute.

South Africas own documents suggest it did not tee this matter off properly. A reading of the footnotes in the dispute sections in both the original written filing and the oral argument who South Africa to have repeated misrepresented what the source documents said or stood for. This could be a serious own goal, since it would not have been hard for South Africa to have taken the extra say three weeks to properly notify Israel and giving them a deadline for replying before going to the ICJ. But the dire and worsening conditions in Gaza created time pressure.

If you read the footnotes, South Africa treats various statements by national leaders, mainly on Twitter or Facebook, sometimes to the press in their own countries, depicting Israel as conducting genocide as amounting to initiating a dispute. That does not tee off an action any more than do the many many statements to the media that China has been engaged in ethnic cleansing or even genocide against the Uighurs amount to an official action. In addition, none of the countries whose leaders used the G word with respect to Israel joined South Africa as co-filers of its application (although quite a few states later said they support South Africas application).

South Africa also cites several Notes Verbale it sent to Israel before it filed its application with the ICJ on December 29 as proof of a dispute. But those were all referrals to the ICC over allegations of various war crimes (you can click through from the link and read the underlying document), with only the very last including genocide. While all those other war crimes, such as ethnic cleansing, can serve to substantiate genocide, they are not in and of themselves genocide.

In addition, the ICC is not the ICJ. The ICC prosecutes individuals. From the ICCs Understanding the International Criminal Court:

The International Criminal Court (the ICC or the Court) is a permanent international court established to investigate, prosecute and try individuals accused of committing the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole, namely the crime of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression

It does not have the power to take action against states. The legal authority of the two bodies also differs. For instance, the ICC can issue arrest warrants while as we pointed out, the ICJ had no enforcement powers. Similarly, UN members can elect. So it is hard to fathom how a referral to the ICC, which could lead to action only against individuals, could be depicted as initiating action against a state.

South Africa claimed Israel had replied. From its oral argument:

By this time, the dispute had crystallized as a matter of law. This was confirmed by Israels official and unequivocal denial on 6 December 2023 that it was committing genocide in Gaza.142

However, if you use the link in Footnote 142 (https://www.gov.il/en/departments/general/swords-of-iron-faq-6-dec-2023), it goes to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs document, Hamas-Israel Conflict 2023: Frequently Asked Questions. Item 10, the last item, addresses What is the response to the charge that a genocide is taking place in Gaza?

FAQ is a format used for communicating with the media and the general public. I asked Aurelien about whether this sort of response could be considered to be a reply. Aurelien does have some knowledge of this area; as he noted, although I was very deeply involved in the practical aspects of punishing atrocities at one point in my life, and even wrote a book about it. He did point out that there is a lot of legal literature and substantial case law what it took for a matter to amount to a dispute for ICJ purposes. The bottom line is there seems to be no consensus. However, the matter of the reply via FAQ: is in a different category. His take:

In my experience such responses have no legal standing at all. They are just like answers to questions in an interview on TV.

South Africa does say it sent an additional Note Verbale on December 21 but that text was provided only to the judges so we cannot tell how it tried to finesse that the earlier complaints effectively had been about individuals, and not the State of Israel.4 South Africa filed its application a week and a day later, which IMHO is an insufficient amount of time for a substantive response. Even in the US on procedural matters, 10 to 15 days is the normal deadline in most jurisdictions for a reply.

Again, this is a very muddled area. But Aureliens bottom line, before I pointed out that that reply was a mere FAQ,, a negative for South Africa, was that an activist bench could find for South Africa on the matter of whether this dispute actually had crystallized. Again from Aurelien: I suppose it depends how brave the Court is feeling.

I suspect the more likely determinant of which way the court goes on this issue is what would happen next if the ICJ were to determine that South Africa had not actually initiated a genocide dispute for its purposes. To a layperson, this sounds analogous to dismissing a case for improper service. That sort of dismissal is without prejudice, as in the plaintiff can try again. If the Court were to reject the filing on this basis, it would presumably have to articulate how South Africa fell short so it could reboot properly. This would certainly hurt South Africas credibility. Would it hurt the judgesmore than they might worry if they found for South Africa? And if a refiling is possible, it would also mean the case likely back in their laps after more preliminary wrangling between Israel and South Africa. But then again, things could change in the meantime to reduce the pressure on the court.such as a lengthy ceasefire.

Other Options for the ICJ

Well cover this final topic quickly.

The ICJ could rule against all the requested provisional measures but allow the case to proceed on the normal dispute timetable, as in years. Aside from that course of action allowing Israel to continue its horrorshow in Gaza, remember also, unlike normal genocide disputes where one party is the alleged perp and the other the victim, Israel has a much better access to information, particularly now that Internet access has been repeatedly cut, journalists are an endangered species, and few (no?) NGOs and UN officials have access.

As we indicated above, the test of proportionality suggests the ICJ will not approve the requested provisional measures 1 and 2, to suspend formal and irregular military operations in Gaza. I suspect they will not approve of 3 (to prevent genocide) since that is an obligation under the Genocide Convention, to which Israel is already a signatory. Having its duties reaffirmed via a provisional measure is arguably prejudicial.

If we lived in a sane and humane world, it should be a no-brainer for the Court to implement the remaining provisional measures (with the removal of the word desist which Israel has complained is prejudicial) which call for Israel to provide humanitarian relief, stop killing Palestinians as members of the group, and (effectively) stop making Gaza uninhabitable. The other measures call for preservation of evidence, allow access by fact-finders, and submit regular reports to the ICJ. But requiring Israel to implement any provisional measures requires the ICJ to have determined that South Africa made a sufficiently strong case that Israel was engaged in genocide in Gaza. That is what quite a few ICJ judges really do not want to do.

So sadly the odds favor the ICJ punting, either via a procedural issue such as the one I outlined, or worse, a failure to get the needed votes on the merits of the case.

If that is the outcome, it will only confirm that there are two standards of justice in the world, one for white colonialists5 and another for everyone else.

___

1 This includes John Mearsheimer.

2 The ICJ has such a big history of hearing disputes that there are almost certainly procedural precedents. But none were in high-stakes cases like genocide.

3 I believe there are some measures that take effect automagically in certain states due to pre-existing law. Whether provisional measures would trigger them is again over my pay grade.

4> From the transcript of the oral argument:

However, as a matter of courtesy, before filing the present Application, on 21 December 2023, South Africa sent a Note Verbale to the Embassy of Israel to reiterate its view that Israels acts of genocide in Gaza amounted to genocide  that it, as a State party to the Genocide Convention, was under an obligation to prevent genocide from being committed143. Israel responded by way of a Note Verbale that failed to address the issues raised by South Africa in its Note and neither affirmed nor denied the existence of a dispute. This was emailed late on 27 December 2023, this Note Verbale was received by the relevant South African team on 29 December 2023 after the present Application was filed.

I am trying to avoid reliance on anything Israel has said, but my impression from the Israel whinging is that if a reply were made, the potential plaintiff needs either to address that, as in have some back and forth with the offending State before going to the ICJ and discuss that history, or alternatively, explain it its application why the reply confirmed that that there was an irrevocable dispute.

5 Who is white changes over time. The Irish in the US in the early 1900s were not white. Matt Stoller and Alastair Crooke, among others, maintain that (at least) Ashkenazi Jews are white.

____

South Africas requested provisional measures:

(1) The State of Israel shall immediately suspend its military operations in and against Gaza.

(2) The State of Israel shall ensure that any military or irregular armed units which may be directed, supported or influenced by it, as well as any organisations and persons which may be subject to its control, direction or influence, take no steps in furtherance of the military operations referred to point (1) above.

(3) The Republic of South Africa and the State of Israel shall each, in accordance with their obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, in relation to the Palestinian people, take all reasonable measures within their power to prevent genocide.

(4) The State of Israel shall, in accordance with its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, in relation to the Palestinian people as group protected by the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, desist from the commission of any and all acts within the scope of Article II of the Convention, in particular:

(a) killing members of the group;

(b) causing serious bodily or mental harm to the members of the group;

(c) deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; and

(d) imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group.

(5) The State of Israel shall, pursuant to point (4)(c) above, in relation to Palestinians, desist from, and take all measures within its power including the rescinding of relevant orders, of restrictions and/or of prohibitions to prevent:

(a) the expulsion and forced displacement from their homes;

(b) the deprivation of:

(i) access to adequate food and water;

(ii) access to humanitarian assistance, including access to adequate fuel, shelter, clothes, hygiene and sanitation;

(iii) medical supplies and assistance; and

(c) the destruction of Palestinian life in Gaza.

(6) The State of Israel shall, in relation to Palestinians, ensure that its military, as well as any irregular armed units or individuals which may be directed, supported or otherwise influenced by it and any organizations and persons which may be subject to its control, direction or influence, do not commit any acts described in (4) and (5) above, or engage in direct and public incitement to commit genocide, conspiracy to commit genocide, attempt to commit genocide, or complicity in genocide, and insofar as they do engage therein, that steps are taken towards their punishment pursuant to Articles I, II, III and IV of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

(7) The State of Israel shall take effective measures to prevent the destruction and ensure the preservation of evidence related to allegations of acts within the scope of Article II of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide; to that end, the State of Israel shall not act to deny or otherwise restrict access by fact-finding missions, international mandates and other bodies to Gaza to assist in ensuring the preservation and retention of said evidence.

(8) The State of Israel shall submit a report to the Court on all measures taken to give effect to this Order within one week, as from the date of this Order, and thereafter at such regular intervals as the Court shall order, until a final decision on the case is rendered by the Court.

(9) The State of Israel shall refrain from any action and shall ensure that no action is taken which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve it.
Yves here. This paper provides yet another lens into the deterioration of civic values in the US and the more-related-than-youd-think difficulties the US is having meeting military recruitment goals, In the UK, theres a solid correlation between per capita WWI losses in the UK and various pro-social activities.including enlistment for WWII. The authors posit a big reason for that outcome is that these communities, and the country as a whole, commemorated the loss of these young men in war.

When I was in Australia, I was struck at how serious (in the early 2000s) Anzac day was, even though the underlying event was a close to a debacle. From Wikipedia:

In 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers formed part of an Allied expedition that set out to capture the Gallipoli Peninsula to open the way to the Black Sea for the Allied navies. The objective was to capture Constantinople, the capital of the Ottoman Empire, which was an ally of Germany during the war. The ANZAC force landed at Gallipoli on 25 April, meeting fierce resistance from the Ottoman Army commanded by Mustafa Kemal (later known as Ataturk).[8] What had been planned as a bold strike to knock the Ottomans out of the war quickly became a stalemate, and the campaign dragged on for eight months. At the end of 1915, the Allied forces were evacuated after both sides had suffered heavy casualties and endured great hardships.

The entry continues to describe how the campaign became a defining event for both young nations:

Though the Gallipoli campaign failed to achieve its military objectives of capturing Constantinople and knocking the Ottoman Empire out of the war, the actions of the Australian and New Zealand troops during the campaign bequeathed an intangible but powerful legacy. The creation of what became known as an Anzac legend became an important part of the national identity in both countries. This has shaped the way their citizens have viewed both their past and their understanding of the present. The heroism of the soldiers in the failed Gallipoli campaign made their sacrifices iconic in New Zealand memory, and is often credited with securing the psychological independence of the nation.

Similarly, as many readers know, Russia continues to honor the memory of the very many who died in World War II via Immortal Regiment ceremonies.

By contrast, with the Iraq War, the US started trying to pretend our conflicts had no human cost. I recall military families being upset that videos of soldiers returning home in coffins suddenly were verboten on TV, when in the past these sacrifices were honored.

By Felipe Carozzi, Associate Professor of Urban Economics and Economic Geography in the Department of Geography and Environment London School Of Economics And Political Science; Edward Pinchbeck, Birmingham Fellow, Birmingham Business School University Of Birmingham; and Luca Repetto, Associate Professor Uppsala University. Originally published at VoxEU

Countries currently involved in active warfare  Ukraine, Russia, and Israel most prominently  have launched intense mobilisation campaigns to expand their armies. This column examines what compels ordinary men and women to fight. Specifically, the authors study how the memorialisation of British soldiers who died in WWI affected civic capital in the communities they came from, and whether that spirit shaped the behaviour of soldiers in WWII. Subsequent generations of soldiers from those communities were more likely to also give their lives in battle, and to be commended with military honours.

Data from the Uppsala Conflict Data Program indicate that 2022 was the year with the largest number of fatalities in state-based conflicts in over three decades. According to the Global Peace Index, produced by the Institute for Economics & Peace, the world has become progressively less peaceful over the last 15 years. Countries currently involved in active high-intensity warfare such as Ukraine, Russia, and Israel have launched intense mobilisation campaigns to expand their armies with fresh recruits. What motivates these men and women to fight, to take often fatal risks on the battlefield?

The actions of individuals in war pose a paradox for social scientists, especially for economists. Combat represents a topical example of a collective action problem, whereby most benefits from fighting accrue to a third-party  for example, the nation  while costs fall squarely on those who fight, particularly those who die (Campante and Yanagizawa-Drott 2015). It is therefore hard to rationalise the behaviour of soldiers in battle as motivated by pecuniary cost/benefit calculations. Yet, nations have long found individuals willing to engage in combat. A series of recent papers in economics and political science attempt to understand what motivates them to fight. Studies have focused on different drivers such as propaganda (Barber and Miller 2019), religious and cultural beliefs (Beatton et al. 2019), public recognition (Ager et al. 2021), and state repression (Rozenas et al. 2022), among other factors.

In a recent discussion paper (Carozzi 2023), we turn to this question by studying how past deaths in combat affect a communitys values and, through those values, how they shape combat motivation for the next generation of soldiers. Specifically, we study how the deaths of soldiers who fought in WWI affected civic capital in the communities these soldiers came from and, through this effect, shaped the behaviour of soldiers in WWII. For this purpose, we conduct an empirical analysis that focuses on the British experience in the two World Wars.

Great War Remembrance in the UK

Over 700,000 British servicemen died fighting in WWI, making it by far the deadliest war in the long history of the British Army. This severe shock triggered a wave of commemoration and remembrance that became a characteristic feature of British life to this day. A day of remembrance, instituted in 1919 to commemorate the Armistice of 11 November 1918, has been celebrated every year since with parades and ceremonies. The ceremonial laying of wreaths at the Cenotaph in Whitehall on Remembrance Day 2022 was one of the first public acts of King Charles III after his coronation. It is around this Remembrance Day that the Poppy Appeal is still held annually, with over 30 million of the well-known commemorative poppies produced by the Poppy Factory each year.

In Great Britain alone, over 50,000 war memorials were built after WWI (IWM 2024). These monuments can still be found in towns and villages throughout the country and were often built using funds raised by local communities. They serve as tangible symbols of the sacrifices that community members made in the war and call new generations to exhibit similar behaviour (see Figure 1).

Figure 1 Message in Southern Hospital Great Hall, University of Birmingham

Notes: Birmingham University First Southern General Hospital WWI Memorial Plaque, ref no. WMO/236786.

Great War Deaths, Local Communities, and Battle Motivation in WWII

We can use the context presented by the UK in the first half of the 20th century to explore whether sacrifice in past wars has lasting effects on local communities by changing the behaviour of subsequent generations. We ask both if sacrifice in WWI had an impact on civic capital in the interwar period, and if these deaths affected the actions of the next generation of soldiers in WWII. Our hypothesis is that past acts of sacrifice and their commemoration can affect combat motivation because they foster values that encourage and normalise pro-social behaviour. That is, people raised in communities in which past generations are commemorated for their self-sacrifice will develop a set of values that emphasise collective action, and this will affect their behaviour. Building on previous work (Guiso et al. 2011), we refer to these shared prosocial values as civic capital.

To test this hypothesis, we built a database combining information from individual-level WWI and WWII records on mobilised servicemen and deaths during the war. We geolocate these records to individual parishes of origin and use these parishes as our unit of observation in much of the analysis. For the sake of illustration, Figures 2 and 3 represent deaths per capita in WWI and WWII, respectively. We can observe that there is substantial between-parish variation in death rates in both wars. The same can be said about mobilisation rates in WWI (not shown).

The first major finding in our empirical analysis is that community-wide soldier deaths in WWI strongly predict a communitys losses in WWII, as well as the likelihood that local soldiers are awarded gallantry medals in that conflict (see Figures 4 and 5). Critically, we use a shift-share instrumental variable strategy to establish that these connections are causal and not being driven by inherent, pre-determined social and economic characteristics of communities or their residents, such as their health status, income levels, or cultural factors.

We then use different measures of civic capital at the local level to study the role played by the transmission of prosocial values in explaining the observed changes in soldier behaviour during WWI. Because measuring a communitys civic capital is characteristically difficult, we use different outcomes as proxies for this (largely unobserved) variable in the interwar period: the creation of charities, the establishment of British Legion branches, the building of high-quality memorials (as measured by Listed status), and election turnout rates. We find a positive and significant effect of WWI deaths on all of these outcomes, lending support to the notion that a communitys sacrifices during WWI led to an increase in civic capital. Using tools borrowed from the mediation literature, we show suggestive evidence indicating that it is this process of civic capital accumulation and transmission that explains the results relating WWI deaths with WWII behaviour.

All told, our results strongly indicate that deaths taking place during a war, and their remembrance by subsequent generations, can be powerful determinants of value formation and future combat motivation. Our findings have several implications. They indicate that the experience of past wars can complement other forms of public effort to increase morale, such as propaganda campaigns or public recognition of actions in service. A darker interpretation is that war begets war by increasing the resources available for future conflicts. Because cultural transmission operates  at least in part  through local networks, this also implies that the human costs of conflict can become concentrated in particular locations, even if the locations themselves are not part of the battlefield.

The extent to which the legacies of past wars still influence British communities remains an open question, and exploring the enduring effects of war deaths is an ongoing focus of our research efforts. Equally, the extent to which these results can be generalised to other contexts remains unclear. If indeed the British experience in the first half of the 20th century is somewhat representative of broader patterns, this means that current conflicts will shape the values of communities that survive those conflicts and influence the combat motivation of future generations. We hope to explore these issues in future work.

See original post for references
While the Arab League and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation voiced support for South Africas case, its notable that it was South Africa that filed the case in the first place. Additionally, while many countries make a show of support for Palestinians, its largely business as usual with Israel.

A member of South Africas advisory team before the International Court of Justice: We expect a decision on the lawsuit against Israel to be made within a week, as no country has officially joined South Africas lawsuit despite the support of several countries in the media  S p r i n t e r (@Sprinter99800) January 20, 2024

Maybe no one talks louder than Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but oil still flows from Azerbaijan to Israel via Turkiye, and the Incirlik air base in Turkiye is still used by the US to deliver weapons to Israel. Persian Gulf states also refuse to use oil as leverage on Israel.

While the West is in complete support of Israel, elsewhere few countries have withdrawn diplomats or suspended economic ties with Israel.

How big of a role do Israeli sales of weapons and surveillance technology play in those decisions? Antony Loewenstein in his book The Palestine Laboratory makes a compelling case that it plays a big part. I wrote a review of a month ago, largely focusing on the spread of surveillance and population control technology pioneered by Israel, which is used in efforts to plunder assets or people  both abroad and domestically.

The increasing worldwide use of population control technology that Israel uses (and refines) on Palestinians is a warning sign for the future, but also helps explain why governments are still hesitant to oppose Israel. There are no doubt other factors at play, such as pressure from the US and other forces of coercion, and while Israels tech may have lost some of its luster on Oct. 7, as the Israel Defense Forces supposedly state-of-the-art systems were unable to prevent Hamas attack, its still in demand because of what Loewenstein describes here about Cellebrite, the Israeli digital intelligence behemoth whose products include the Universal Forensic Extraction Device hacking tool:

A former Cellebrite employee, previously a member of the defense establishment, wrote anonymously in Haaretz that I can say from personal experience that the company does nothing to prevent the abuse of its products by customers. The reason repressive states want Israeli tech, whether from Cellebrite or NSO, is simple: China and other states make inferior alternatives.

The Case of Colombia

Israels spat with Bogota helps highlight why governments are reluctant to call Israel out for its crimes.

Israel sells to just about everyone who wants to buy. It sold to Chile during Pinochet despite the US-backed dictator torturing and murdering Jews. It sells to China, Russia, the US, the EU. It sells to Gulf monarchies. Israel has not ratified the Arms Trade Treaty, which prohibits the sale of weapons at risk of being used in genocide and crimes against humanity. And so naturally, its played an integral role arming genocidal governments over the years, including in Guatemala, Indonesia, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, and Sri Lanka.

But Israel will suspend sales if a country goes too far in its criticism of Israeli actions. In October, this happened with Colombia after its president Gustavo Petro made comments, such as terrorism is killing innocent children in Palestine and accused Israel of turning Gaza into a concentration camp.

Israel called Colombias ambassador to a meeting in which she was informed that defense cooperation between the countries would be suspended.

The Colombian Air Forces primary fighter jet and only high-performance combat aircraft is made by IAI. According to Defense News, the Kfir jets are also armed with weapons acquired from Israel, including the Derby BVR medium-range air-to-air missiles from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Griffin laser-guided-bombs from IAI. And the Kfirs use Python III and Python IV all-aspect, heat-seeking, close-range air-to-air missiles, made by Rafael. Colombia also got its infantry rifles and primary anti-tank missiles from Israeli companies.

The relationship between Israel and Colombia is much deeper than just that, however, as described by Loewenstein in The Palestine Laboratory. Infamous Israeli-manufactured Galil rifles ended up with Colombian drug lords in the late 1980s after being used in the Guatemalan genocide. More:

American and Colombian investigators discovered that the weapons were part of a murky deal between Israeli mercenaries and and Medellin cocaine cartel head Jose Gonzalo Rodriguez Gacha when he wanted to take over the country and build a neofascist state. Wanting Israelis to help him with this project made sense, considering the sort of work elements of the Israeli military had done in Latin America in the 1970s and 1980s. The former drug trafficker Carlos Castano, who ran a far-right paramilitary force, explains in his ghost-written autobiography, I learned an infinite amount of things in Israel [in the 1980s], and to that country I owe part of my essence, my human and military achievments. I copied the concept of paramilitary forces from the Israelis. Decades later, Israeli company Global Comprehensive Security Transformation (Global CST), founded by a former head of the Operations Directorate of the IDF, played a major role assisting the Colombian military in its war against the FARC rebel group. In a promotional video for Global CST in 2011, made when he was president of Colombia, Santos praised the company as people with a lot of experience. Santos told an Israeli TV program that he was excited about the Israeli trainers used by the firm: Weve [Colombians] even been accused of being the Israelites of Latin America, which personally makes me feel really proud. The show mentioned Colombias 2008 raid into Ecuador and killing of FARCs second-in-command Paul Reyes. The narrator praised the mission: All of a sudden, the methods that proved efficient in Nablus and Hebron begin speaking Spanish.

Colombia for the time being will have a more difficult time gaining access to such services from Israeli companies. Other countries may be wary of losing similar assistance.

From the Israeli side, there are still plenty of customers, and the government is streamlining the sale process. New government regulations introduced last year will allow Israel to sell more weapons to more countries without the requirement to obtain a license  not that there was much danger of a sale being blocked anyways. [1]

Weapons Sales

Israeli weapons are still flying off the shelves amid the genocide in Gaza, as it appears Israels failures on the battlefield are not dissuading buyers. Israel is, by far, the worlds largest exporter of military drones: in 2017, it was estimated that it was behind nearly two-thirds of all UAV exports over the previous three decades.

According to CTech, Israeli kamikaze drones are in high demand amid the war on Gaza war, with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) completing at least a few deals since Oct. 7. IAI sold to at least four NATO countries last year as well, including its Rotem loitering munitions. A big selling point is that they have been proven in different combat situations.

And Israel has been testing out all types of new weapons in Gaza, including loitering munitions and the fire monitoring system SMASH, which uses artificial intelligence-based image processing to lock onto the target, tracking movement to synchronize the shot. This is reportedly the first time SMASH is being used in live situations, and according to Ynet, the proven success in wartime has increased the demand for the system worldwide.

Many more weapons are being showcased in Gaza. From the Foundation for Defense of Democracies:

The Smash technology is not the only one Israel has highlighted in the recent conflict. The Iron Sting precision mortar system, made by Elbit Systems, has also been used for the first time in this conflict. On Friday December 15, the IDF said it struck a launch post in Lebanon using the Iron Sting. That same day, the IDF also used Iron Sting to hit a weapon storage in Khan Yunis. In addition, the IDF said that the 414th IDF battalion used a Maoz drone for the first time to strike terrorist cells in Khan Yunis. This was apparently the first time it was used by this unit, because the system has been used several times recently and was first used in Jenin in July. The Maoz is also known as the Spike FireFly, and it is a loitering munition that slams into a target but can hover overhead and wait for a target to become available. It is made by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. Taken together, these three systems  the Smash sights, the Iron Sting and the Maoz  are all examples of precision munitions that can be used against relatively small targets.

Rafael has an order backlog which currently stands at $10.1 billion.

In our age of polycrisis, Israeli military tech firms are cashing in, meeting the needs of the times, which is highlighted by a passage in Loewensteins book that stood out to me:

Neither anti-Semitism nor extremism have been an impediment to collaboration with states that plunder assets or people.

About that plunder:

The worlds richest 1% own 43% of global financial assets, and the wealth of the top five billionaires has doubled since 2020, while 60% of humanity  nearly 5 billion people  collectively got poorer, according to a report by Oxfam.https://t.co/YHHcgz7yXo  Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) January 18, 2024

That plunder is a main driver behind the crises coming in waves, and the backlash it creates leads to even more of a perceived need of weapons and surveillance tech, which Israel is happy to provide, as evidenced by the 130 countries that have bought weapons, drones and cyberspying technology from Israel, the worlds 10th-largest weapons exporter. And no plunderer wants to lose access to useful Israeli tools at a time like this.

So Ursula von der Leyen stated in Davos that she wants to use the DSA legislation to censor social media under the pretext of hate speech One question, who exactly elected this lady?

 pic.twitter.com/xYyoeUJWx7  Richard (@ricwe123) January 16, 2024

Despite (or because of) supply chain breakdowns and dealing with financial crises, pandemics, etc., sales of the top 100 arms companies continue to grow. US weapons sales to foreign governments jumped 49 percent in 2022, and Israel keeps setting weapons sales records, including $12.5 billion in 2022. This year is expected to be even better, and investors are pouring cash into military tech start-ups in Israel, likely expecting a nice pay off from the weapons getting live use in Gaza.

We can look back to the 2014 Gaza War for a glimpse into how this works, as Al Jazeera describes:

Elbit, the maker of the Iron Sting, provides up to 85 percent of the land-based equipment procured by the Israeli military and about 85 percent of its drones, according to Database of Israeli Military and Security Export (DIMSE). But after the 2014 Gaza war, its export market expanded significantly, too. Elbit promotes its Hermes UAVs as combat-proven and the primary platform of the IDF in counter-terror operations. The Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 were both used extensively in Operation Protective Edge, Israels 2014 war, during which 37 percent of fatalities were attributed to drone attacks, according to an estimate by the Gaza-based Al Mezan Center for Human Rights. Elbit subsequently secured contracts for the new Hermes 900 drone with more than 20 countries worldwide including the Philippines, which purchased 13, as well as India, Azerbaijan, Canada, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Iceland, the European Union, Mexico, Switzerland and Thailand. In March 2023, Elbit Systems announced their 120th order for the Hermes 900.

Israel is expecting the same to happen whenever it ends its war on Gaza  if it gets to decide when the widening conflict ends and the more than 300,000 Israelis drafted to reserve duty go back to work. The new chairman of the Israel Securities Authority, Seffy Zinger, recently told Reuters, We believe there is an opportunity in Israel that after the war the economy will grow. The same thing happened in past wars or military campaigns in Israel the last two decades. And the high tech sector is very strong.

Surveillance Setback?

While its overreliance on technology was in large part responsible for Israels failure to prevent the Oct. 7 attack, the countrys industry faces another pressing challenge.

At the recent major defense expo in the heart of France  the country whose defense minister says international genocide law doesnt apply to Israel  there were no Israeli spyware firms to be found.

They are facing pushback from worldwide clients, but it has nothing to do with their treatment of human animals in Gaza and the West Bank.

No, the reason was largely because US and EU firms want a bigger share of the market for offensive spyware and have been critical of Israeli companies in the same field, such as NSO Group and its Pegasus spyware. It can hack into devices remotely, giving its operators full access to a phone and has been used on journalists and activists around the world.

While the US blacklists Israeli and Israeli-owned spyware firms (including NSO), it continues to develop and deploy even more powerful surveillance tools against Americans and the rest of the world.

Researchers have documented over two thousand U.S. law enforcement agencies that have procured digital forensics technology, which require physical possession of a targets device in order to install, but the level of intrusiveness can be even greater than that of remote spyware technology. Loewenstein writes in The Palestine Laboratory that the likely reason behind Bidens moves against NSO was US concerns that an Israeli company was encroaching on American technological supremacy.

There are also European firms who were out in force at the Milipol Paris showcasing the same abilities that the West criticized NSO for. From Haaretz:

Though Israeli offensive cyber firms did not attend, their European competitors did: RCS, producer of the Hermit spyware that is considered a competitor of NSOs Pegasus; Memento Labs, formerly known as Hacking Team; and IPS-Intelligence, all Italian firms, were present. Alongside these known spyware vendors, previously unreported ones also pitched on the expo floor: Invasys, a Czech firm being revealed here for the first time, offered an offensive cyber program Kelpie with the ability to hack iPhones and Android and thus access fully encrypted communications apps.

Despite the competition putting the squeeze on Israeli spyware companies, there were still more than a dozen firms in Paris that were part of an official Israeli delegation organized by Israel Export Institute. One was Toka Cyber, which refused to provide any details of their activities to the media. But when Haaretz reporters reminded the companies representatives that the publication reported last year that the firm sells tech that hacks into security cameras and even alters their video feeds for intelligence and operational needs, Tokas representatives responded: allegedly.

Notes

[1] According to The Palestine Laboratory, the Israeli government approved every defense deal brought to it since 2007, according to details uncovered in 2022 by Israeli human rights lawyer Eitay Mack.
This photo taken on Jan. 19, 2024 shows the launch ceremony of the book "Rabe and China" hosted by Beijing Union University and Research Press in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Tai Sicong)

BEIJING, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- The launch ceremony of a book about the time John Rabe spent in China was hosted by Beijing Union University and Research Press on Friday afternoon.

John Rabe, dubbed the "Oskar Schindler of China," and dozens of other foreigners risked their lives to set up an international safety zone in Nanjing, and thereby saved the lives of more than 200,000 Chinese people between 1937 and 1938.

The book, "Rabe and China," contains the diary of John Rabe and other relevant documents and recounts the 30 years he spent in China in places including Beijing, Tianjin and Nanjing, as well as the enduring friendship between the Rabe family and China. The diary and documents were supplied by friends and relatives of Rabe who also gave their permission for it to be used in this book.

The book was written by John Rabe's grandson, German reproductive endocrinologist Thomas Rabe. "Today is a very important day for the friendship of the Rabe family and China, which has been continuing for four generations and over 115 years," Thomas Rabe said in a video address at the ceremony.

After reviewing his grandfather's experiences in China, as well as his own collaboration and friendship with Chinese medical experts, he said that the cooperation of the Rabe family over four generations with China is proof of a strong bond between the Rabe family and China, or between Germany and China in general, today and in the future.

Ding Bo, chief editor of Research Press, said the book not only records the history of the Nanjing Massacre from different perspectives, but also interprets the mental and emotional basis of John Rabe's feat back then, as well as the efforts made by his descendants to publicize his deeds and inherit his spirit.

Editor: WXL
On 18-19 January 2024, NATO held its first talks with Civil Society representatives on the update of NATOs policy on Women, Peace and Security. The talks were carried out as part of the first meeting of the new Civil Society Advisory Panel (CSAP) on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) under the leadership of NATO Secretary Generals Special Representative for WPS Irene Fellin.

Ms Fellin said: the CSAP provides a unique platform to engage with civil society experts with outstanding expertise and from a diverse range of backgrounds. Their perspectives bring invaluable insights for the WPS Policy update, and will support the advancement of NATOs WPS agenda.

At the Vilnius Summit, Allies agreed to update NATOs 2018 policy on WPS, adapting it to the current security environment, in particular Russias war in Ukraine, and its implications for women and girls. The policy, which drives NATOs work on WPS, is set to be endorsed at the NATO Summit in July 2024.

The CSAP was first established in 2016. In 2023, Allies agreed to revise its terms of reference to increase its representation and inclusiveness, and expand its areas of expertise to include gender implications related to climate change, cyber security, emerging disruptive technologies and counterterrorism. It comprises 24 civil society experts from across the Alliance, partner nations, and conflict-affected regions, from diverse backgrounds working on women's rights, peacebuilding, human rights advocacy, community leadership and mediation.

In his opening address on 18 January, NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana welcomed the re-establishment of the CSAP, which comes at a critical time as the Alliance is facing a multitude of complex security challenges. He thanked the Secretary Generals Special Representative for WPS for her efforts in making this happen.
Chemist confirms presence of COCAINE RESIDUE on Hunter Bidens firearm pouch

Republicans are escalating their demands for the prosecution of Hunter Biden, citing alarming revelations surrounding his Colt Cobra gun. According to recent reports, a chemist confirmed the presence of cocaine residue on the brown leather pouch where Hunter stored his firearm.

Prosecutors led by Special Counsel David Weiss disclosed shocking details about the gun, alleging that Hunter acquired it under questionable circumstances while under the influence of drugs. The firearm is now at the center of a three-count indictment, as Hunter faces charges of dishonesty about his crack cocaine addiction during the gun purchase.

The recent Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) discovery of cocaine in the firearm pouch has ignited a fresh wave of concerns about security measures at the White House.

Earlier in the summer, a bag of white powder was found in a cubby hole near the West Executive entrance, prompting an evacuation of the West Wing and initiating an 11-day investigation once the substance was identified as an illicit drug.

The subsequent Secret Service investigation concluded with no identified culprit due to the absence of surveillance cameras facing the locker area.

Republicans, led by GOP Whip Thomas Earl Emmer Jr., are now questioning the Secret Service's handling of the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and a thorough investigation.

Emmer expressed skepticism about the "sweetheart plea deal" that Hunter was set to take, suggesting a potential cover-up.

The GOP's intensified impeachment investigation into President Biden includes efforts to hold Hunter in contempt of Congress for defying congressional subpoenas. Amid these developments, federal prosecutors revealed the cocaine discovery while pushing back against Hunter's attempts to dismiss felony gun charges.

Hunter alleges political motives behind the charges, but prosecutors dismiss this as a "conspiracy theory," emphasizing the evidence against him. This evidence includes incriminating statements in Hunter's memoir and messages discussing drug usage obtained from his Apple iCloud account.

The court filing meticulously outlines Hunter's gun purchase, highlighting that he bought the Colt Cobra, an HKS Speedloader, and ammunition  all worth $886.81. Notably, Hunter paid in cash, and his then-girlfriend, Hallie Biden, discovered the weapon in his car, leading to its disposal behind a grocery store.

Hunter could face up to 25 years in prison

Last September, Hunter faced a federal indictment in his home state of Delaware.

The charges alleged that he lied about his drug addiction when purchasing a gun in 2018. The indictment followed the rejection of a plea deal by U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika in July, which had aimed to resolve potential tax and gun indictments.

The scuttled deal drew criticism from Congressional Republicans and former President Donald Trump, who deemed it too lenient, leading Hunter's lawyer to claim that political pressure triggered the charges.

Special Counsel David Weiss argued that Hunter failed to demonstrate that others facing similar actions weren't charged. Weiss contended that there was no improper political motive behind the prosecution, emphasizing that the charges resulted from Hunter's own choices and were not influenced by external political noise.

The gun charges are just one facet of Hunter's complex legal battles. He faces federal tax charges in California for allegedly failing to pay $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 to 2019. (Related: Hunter Biden pleads NOT GUILTY to tax fraud charges in California.)

If convicted on all three gun charges, Hunter could face up to 25 years in prison, though first-time offenders typically receive shorter terms. The charges stem from a statute prohibiting individuals addicted to narcotics from owning firearms.

Hunter sought dismissal of the gun charges, claiming that prosecutors reneged on promises made during the failed plea agreement negotiations. However, Weiss countered that Hunter is fully aware of the grounds for the charges  illegal ownership of the Colt revolver and lying about his addiction.

Weiss highlighted Hunter's admission of years of drug abuse in a memoir written after the federal investigation was announced in 2020.

Watch this report about the cocaine found in Hunter Biden's gun pouch.

This video is from the GalacticStorm channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Hunter Biden WALKS OUT of House hearing as Republicans rebuke presidential son.

Hunter Biden set to go on trial in California for 9 federal TAX charges.

Hunter Biden received $260,000 from Chinese nationals in 2019 while his dad was running for president.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

USAToday.com

Brighteon.com
Why did Congress help craft a bill last summer called the Disease X Act  do they know another bioweapon is about to be released?

In June 2023, the United States Congress quietly passed a piece of legislation called House Resolution 3832, also known as the Disease X Act of 2023, that references a mystery contagion that just so happens to be the subject of a World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting that took place on Jan. 17, 2024.

At the WEF meeting, it was discussed that Disease X "could have 20 times more fatalities than COVID." We also know that talk of Disease X started at least as far back as 2018 when the WEF mentioned it in an article.

What we are more than likely witnessing with this new revelation is the stage being set for another round of COVID-like lockdowns, mask mandates and whatever else the powers that be throw at the world once they unleash their next pre-planned bioweapon, known as Disease X.

You can check out the contents of the Disease X Act of 2023 at this link.

(Related: For the next fake pandemic, the World Health Organization [WHO] hopes to abolish the First Amendment, according to Bret Weinstein.)

Does Congress know something America doesn't?

In short, the Disease X Act of 2023 reveals plans to establish a new program at BARDA (Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority) to develop medical countermeasures for any future viral threats that have pandemic potential. In other words, there are more COVIDs coming down the pike.

The legislation is intentionally vague, which is certainly no accident. Vague legislation tends to be wide reaching in its scope once executed, which means the severity of its intentions are likely vast and far-reaching.

One report from UnHerd covering what took place at the WEF meeting on Disease X described what was discussed there as "worrying," noting that it shows "signs of the acceleration of technocratic tendencies in pandemic preparedness, which have only consolidated since Covid."

The panel-style meeting opened with a statement from WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who tried to clarify all the "misinformation" about the panel itself, so-called misinformation being the number-one global threat right now, according to the WEF's Global Risks Report 2024.

Ghebreyesus insisted that nobody should be worried about Disease X, which is simply a placeholder name for future biological threats. He continued to ramble from there about strengthening healthcare and education and supporting communities as they prepare for a coming Disease X pandemic.

Only once did anyone on the panel even mention the word lockdown, and it came from a health executive from India by the name of Preetha Reddy who recommended that the next pandemic response should pull a page from how the army operates.

"At any time, anything can happen and we don't know what side it can come from," she said.

"Unfortunately, the focus on Disease X is indicative of a broader phenomenon: the rise of our new biomedical security state, best represented by the technocratic governance structures that drove emergency laws on lockdowns, mask and vaccine mandates, quarantines, school closures and censorship," reported UnHerd about the WEF meeting.

"This is interwoven into the semantic origins of Disease X, which was christened in the WHO R&D Blueprint in 2017 to assist prioritising research and development particularly for vaccines, treatments and tests. It has since become a core driving force for the proliferation of public-private partnerships (PPP) in the global pandemic preparedness industry."

In addition to serving as a placeholder name for future threats, Disease X is also a catalyst for transforming the future health response to be dominated by corporate, technological and state power rather than individual liberty and freedom.

Is another COVID-like "pandemic" about to be unleashed? Find out more at Plague.info.

Sources for this article include:

StrangeSounds.org

NaturalNews.com

UnHerd.com
FBI recruiting, entrapping kids with AUTISM to function as terror PATSIES

In the name of national security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has begun recruiting autistic children to entrap them in the deep state's manufactured terror plots.

The Department of Justice (DoJ), using U.S. taxpayer dollars collected by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), is spearheading the FBI's targeted recruitment campaign, which entrapped a young autistic man named Humzah Mashkoor in a fake terror plot involving ISIS and the Middle East.

When Mashkoor was just 16 years old, he had been talking online to at least four different people whom he believed were members of ISIS. A DoJ criminal complaint states that these four people were actually undercover FBI agents whose job it was to target vulnerable kids like Mashkoor.

Mashkoor's online activities came on law enforcement's radar in November 2021 when they discovered his interest in ISIS. Instead of notifying Mashkoor's family, the FBI proceeded to have its spooks fake-befriended him until he became a legal adult, after which they groomed him to try to fly to the Middle East to join the Islamic State.

When Mashkoor showed up and cleared security at Denver International Airport, the FBI was waiting to arrest and charge him with terror-related crimes. At the time of Mashkoor's arrest, a relative stated in court that the boy was reading "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" as a young adult, even though the book was written for elementary-age children.

"It is appalling that the government never once reached out to his parents, even while they were sending undercover agents to befriend him online starting when he was 16 years old," said Joshua Herman, Mashkoor's defense attorney.

"Almost all of the conduct he is alleged to have committed took place while he was a juvenile."

(Related: The 9/11 false flag terror attack on the World Trade Centers was pulled off by patsy hijackers that were recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency [CIA].)

The FBI as Bread and Circus ringleader

Though appalling, none of this is all that surprising when considering the fact that the FBI does this kind of thing all the time. It is standard procedure for the corrupt federal agency to use and abuse American children to advance the goals and agendas of the globalists.

The FBI is not in the business of actually fighting crime. Instead, the agency manufactures fake crime, sets children up as patsies and comes to the "rescue" just in the nick of time to prove its legitimacy.

"Why would the FBI agents try to prevent crime when they can get a promotion out of egging it on?" asks Ben Bartee of Armageddon Prose. "There's no money or prestige in quietly extinguishing terror in the womb ... What they need to sell to the masses is spectacle  Bread and Circus."

Bartee explains the modus operandi of the FBI and other federal spooks as follows:

1) Recruit a mentally ill patsy

2) Load him up with cash and bad ideas

3) Manufacture a terror plot to entrap the patsy

4) Swoop in to save the day from the very threat the feds created in the first place

5) Use the alleged foiled terror plot to bargain for a fatter budget to do it all over again

This merry-go-round of manufactured terror never stops, and always seems to get faster. And none of this would have been possible were it not for the manufactured "war on terror" that was unleashed by the George W. Bush regime following 9/11.

"Ah yes, this is what Julian Assange described as the 'FBI Business Model,' but at a time when mentally challenged Muslim immigrants were their favored 'marks' for this budget-development strategy," wrote a commenter on Bartee's recount.

The U.S. military-industrial complex must be disbanded, otherwise this type of insanity will continue. Learn more at FBIcorruption.news.

Sources for this article include:

ArmageddonProse.Substack.com

NaturalNews.com
Germany to furnish Israel with TANK SHELLS as Gaza death toll reaches 25,000

Back in November, Israel asked Germany to supply its military with thousands of rounds of 120-millimeter precision ammunition to fuel the war in Gaza. Germany has since responded in the affirmative

According to reports, German government officials have "fundamentally agreed behind the scenes" to send Israel all the tank shells it requested as the latest death toll numbers in Gaza reach 25,000.

"German defense companies were not in a position to deliver the requested ammunition in a short period of time, and the ministries have started on a plan to provide this ammunition from the German army's own stocks," reports explain.

Once the ammunition gets sent, it will mark the first public arms delivery from Berlin to Tel Aviv since the beginning of Israel's ethnic cleansing campaign in Gaza. Up until now, Germany has primarily sent "medical supplies and protective equipment" to Israel.

"Both sides have agreed to keep quiet about the request to send lethal weapons because Israel does not want to allow any conclusions to be drawn about its military capabilities," reports further explain.

(Related: Israel is notorious for blackmailing politicians with bribe money in order to advance the Zionist agenda.)

Hamas blasts Germany for becoming Israel's "direct partner"

Following the news, Hamas condemned Germany for siding with Israel in clearing out the Gaza Strip of the millions of Palestinian people who live there.

"It seems Germany is reproducing its history full of sins against humanity," Hamas said in a statement, noting that Germany's sending of tank shells to Israel makes the country a "direct partner in the war on our people in Gaza."

"It is undeterred from the lessons of the recent past."

Germany also announced that it will intervene on Israel's behalf as a third party in the genocide case brought by South Africa to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"Germany has chosen to defend in the ICJ the genocidal and gruesome acts of the Israeli government against innocent civilians in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian Territories," stated Hage Geingob, the president of Namibia, in a social media post, reminding Germany of the atrocities it committed against the indigenous Herero and Nama people groups in Namibia.

"On Namibian soil, Germany committed the first genocide of the 20th century in 1904-1908, in which tens of thousands of innocent Namibians died in the most inhumane and brutal conditions. The German Government is yet to fully atone for the genocide it committed."

Geingob would add that Germany cannot morally express commitment to the United Nations Convention against genocide, including atoning for its genocide in Namibia, while at the same time "supporting the equivalent of a holocaust and genocide in Gaza."

Namibia rejects Germanys Support of the Genocidal Intent of the Racist Israeli State against Innocent Civilians in Gaza On Namibian soil, #Germany committed the first genocide of the 20th century in 1904-1908, in which tens of thousands of innocent Namibians died in the most pic.twitter.com/ZxwWxLv8yt  Namibian Presidency (@NamPresidency) January 13, 2024

Keep in mind that of the nearly 25,000 Palestinian people who have been killed by Israel since the start of the war, nearly two-thirds of them were women and children.

"No peace-loving human being can ignore the carnage waged against Palestinians in Gaza," Geingob stated back in late December, appealing to the German government to reconsider its untimely decision to intervene as a third party in defense of Israel's genocidal acts in Gaza.

"Various international organizations, such as Human Rights Watch have chillingly concluded that Israel is committing war crimes in Gaza," the Namibian Presidency X (formerly Twitter) account tweeted.

The latest news about the Israel-Gaza conflict can be found at Prophecy.news.

Sources for this article include:

TheCradle.co

NaturalNews.com
Israel is weaponizing FAMINE while destroying food system in Gaza, says UN human rights expert

The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip continues as Israel weaponizes famine by destroying Palestinian food systems.

According to the latest figures, Gazans now make up a whopping 80 percent of all people on earth who currently face famine or catastrophic hunger, this due to Israel's "continued bombardment and siege," to quote the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Experts warn that every single person living in Gaza is hungry right now, with about a quarter of the population actually starving while struggling to find food and drinkable water.

"Pregnant women are not receiving adequate nutrition and healthcare, putting their lives at risk. In addition, all children under five  335,000  are at high risk of severe malnutrition as the risk of famine conditions continues to increase, a whole generation is now in danger of suffering from stunting."

When a child does not receive adequate nutrition, stunting occurs that can lead to irreparable physical and cognitive damage. This is what Israel is doing to Gaza, which faces the loss of an entire generation of people through lack of learning capacity caused by malnutrition.

(Related: Be sure to check out the top 10 politicians who are on the dole of Israeli blood money.)

Even before the war, Israel's 17-year blockade on Gaza caused 80% of Palestinians to require humanitarian aid

Since October 9, Israel has declared and unleashed a "total siege" on Gaza that has not let up since. The roughly 2.3 million Palestinians who live, or lived, there were deprived of food, water, fuel and medicine, and this against a backdrop of a 17-year blockade set up by Israel.

Nowhere in Gaza is safe. And even before the war caused about half of the population to become "food insecure," more than 80 percent of the population was reliant upon humanitarian aid.

Initially, Israel told the residents of northern Gaza to flee south because Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were going to bomb those areas. After tens of thousands of Palestinians obeyed these orders and traveled south, Israel started bombing the south, too, while refusing entrance for humanitarian aid.

"While the majority of aid distribution is concentrated in the southern governorates, since 1 January, only 21 per cent (5 out of 24) of planned deliveries of aid containing food and other lifesaving supplies reached their destination north of Wadi Gaza," OHCHR reported.

"The experts are particularly alarmed about conditions in northern Gaza, where the population faces prolonged food shortages and extremely restricted access to essential resources. In southern Gaza, a large concentration of individuals resides in inadequate shelters or areas devoid of basic amenities, escalating the brutal situation."

The fact of the matter is this: never before has a country forced an entire civilian population to go hungry "this completely and quickly," to quote one source, adding that Israel is intentionally destroying Gaza's food system in order to weaponize food, starvation, famine and more against the Palestinian people.

Israel is even blocking Palestinian access to Gaza farmland and the sea. Since the IDF ground offensive commenced on October 27, roughly 22 percent of all agricultural land, including orchards, greenhouses and farmland in northern Gaza, has been completely razed, meaning destroyed, by Israeli forces.

Then there is Gaza's fishing fleet, which is now 70 percent destroyed by Israel. Israel has also destroyed more than 60 percent of Palestinian homes in Gaza, which is directly impacting the Palestinian people's ability to cook and care for their families.

"Even with little humanitarian aid that has been allowed to enter, people still lack food and fuel to cook," OHCHR reported. Most bakeries are not operational, due to the lack of fuel, water and wheat flour along with structural damage. Livestock are starving and unable to provide food or be a source of food."

The latest news about Israel's war on Gaza can be found at Prophecy.news.

Sources for this article include:

OHCHR.org

NaturalNews.com
Man who developed cancer due to glyphosate (Roundup) exposure awarded $332 million

In another celebratory victory against the chemical industry, 57-year-old Mike Dennis of Carlsbad, Calif., has successfully sued Monsanto for causing his cancer with its Roundup (glyphosate) weedkiller product.

Dennis was diagnosed with a rare form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2020, after which he filed a lawsuit claiming the disease came from decades of using Roundup weedkiller, a product made by Bayer-owned Monsanto. Dennis says the product's active ingredient, glyphosate, caused his cancer.

"Glyphosate, the active ingredient for Roundup, is genotoxic," commented Adam Peavy, an attorney for Dennis. "It causes DNA damage once it's absorbed through the skin, and that's what ultimately causes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma."

While Dennis' cancer has been in remission for nearly three years, the fact of the matter is that there is no official, as far as the government is concerned, cure for his rare form of cancer.

"His doctors have told him it's going to come back and we're just waiting to see if that happens," Peavy said.

A San Diego Superior Court jury ultimately concluded in the case that Monsanto failed to warn consumers about the risks of using or being around Roundup. They awarded Dennis $7 million in compensatory damages and $325 million in punitive damages.

The jury did, however, side with Bayer in the claim that Roundup's product design was not inherently defective and the company was not negligent.

(Related: Did you catch this other recent victory against Monsanto that resulted in a massive $1.5 billion Roundup verdict?)

Johnson & Johnson to settle tens of thousands of cancer-causing talc lawsuits for $9 billion

In a statement to KNSD-TV, Bayer said it believes "we have strong arguments on appeal to get this unfounded verdict overturned and the unconstitutionally excessive damage award eliminated or reduced."

"There were significant and reversible legal and evidentiary errors made during this trial," the company further whined.

In 2018, Bayer made the hilarious decision to purchase Monsanto for $63 billion. Ever since that time, Bayer has faced thousands upon thousands of legal claims related to the toxicity of Roundup and damage caused by its use and exposure.

In 2020, Bayer announced that it would pay up to $10.9 billion to settle around 125,000 claims, both filed and unfiled.

In related news, fellow drug and chemical giant Johnson & Johnson (J&J) agreed to enter a $9 billion settlement over its cancer-causing baby powder. Keep in mind that a settlement is not an admission of guilt or liability, but it does help bring restitution to those injured by a defendant's products or actions.

Like Bayer, J&J faces tens of thousands of lawsuits filed by people and their survivors related to the company's talc-based baby powder.

In a statement, the company indicated that the nearly $9 billion in payments it will make to alleged victims will be paid over the next 25 years "to resolve all the current and future talc claims."

J&J originally offered only $2 billion, claiming it had "secured commitments from over 60,000 current claimants. Just like Bayer, J&J is not admitting to any wrongdoing, but recognizes that fighting all the cases "would take decades and impose significant costs" with "most claimants never receiving any compensation," according to J&J's worldwide vice president of litigation, Erik Haas.

Various law firms representing these tens of thousands of plaintiffs say a majority of their victim clients are supportive of J&J's proposed settlement deal.

"This settlement will provide expeditious, substantial and fair compensation to claimants who cannot afford to wait any longer for a resolution," said representatives for the victims in a collective statement.

Did you or someone you know get injured by Roundup or another glyphosate-containing product? You may want to contact a lawyer. Find out more at Glyphosate.news.

Sources for this article include:

100PercentFedUp.com

NaturalNews.com
Netanyahu REJECTS call for creation of a Palestinian state, says Israel must control EVERYTHING from the river to the sea

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly rejected in a recent speech the notion of allowing the creation of a stable and peaceful Palestinian state in Gaza and the West Bank, claiming that Israel must control the entire region "from the river to the sea."

Media outlets that reported on Netanyahu's speech heavily focused on this statement because this phrase was originally used by Palestinians to demand a free Palestine from the Jordan River in the east to the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Disingenuous and extremist supporters of Israel have wrongly argued that this statement is a call by Palestinians to genocide all Jewish people in Israel.

The statement is so controversial that when Palestinian American Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) used the phrase, she was censured by Congress, with many Democrats joining Republicans in condemning her. For her part, Tlaib described the use of the phrase as an "aspirational call" for "peaceful coexistence" among Israelis and Palestinians in the entire region.

The Israeli government itself has previously pushed out statements that claim the statement "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," is only used by "those who call for the elimination of Israel" and the death of all Jews in Israel.

The Israeli government has even accused celebrities who use the statement of advocating for "throwing Jews into the sea," including Palestinian American models Bella and Gigi Hadid.

Now, these same supporters of Israel have remained quiet regarding Netanyahu's use of the phrase. (Related: The Palestinians were right all along: Netanyahu wants them completely expelled from the region.)

"This conflict is not about the lack of a State of Palestine but the existence of a Jewish state," said Netanyahu. "Every area we evacuate, we receive terrible terror  and therefore I clarify that, in any arrangement in the future, the State of Israel has to control the entire area from the river to the sea."

Biden administration reportedly pressuring Israel to accept Palestinian statehood after the war

Netanyahu's speech comes after the administration of President Joe Biden  which has unconditionally supported Israel's offensive in Gaza that has killed more than 25,000 people, over 10,000 of them children  has reportedly called on Netanyahu's government to scale back its offensive and its indiscriminate attacks on civilians and has pressured Israel to accept the establishment of a Palestinian state after the conclusion of the conflict.

This new Palestinian state would likely replace the Palestinian National Authority and would presumably include the entirety of Gaza and the West Bank, areas recognized as Palestinian territory under international law.

"This is what happens when you have sovereignty," said Netanyahu, who is directly challenging Biden and the American government's support for a two-state solution to the conflict in Israel and Palestine. "I say to my American friends, stop trying to impose on us a reality that will jeopardize us. A prime minister of Israel has to be able to say 'no' even to the best of friends."

In a statement, Matthew Miller of the U.S. State Department reaffirmed that the Biden administration believes the only long-term peace solution to the conflict is for the establishment of a stable and peaceful State of Palestine alongside Israel.

"There is no way to solve [Israel's] long-term challenges to provide lasting security and there is no way to solve the short-term challenges of rebuilding Gaza and establishing governance in Gaza and providing security for Gaza without the establishment of a Palestinian state," Miller said.

Watch this clip of Netanyahu from the news conference wherein he called for Israel to control all of Palestine "from the river to the sea."

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

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RollingStone.com

Salon.com

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Putin: Russian elections are far more HONEST and TRANSPARENT than rigged U.S. elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin called out America's rigged presidential elections in comments at a recent meeting with municipal educators in Moscow.

When he was questioned about voting in four former Ukrainian territories that were annexed by Russia in 2022, the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, he took the opportunity to draw attention to everything that was wrong with the 2020 American presidential elections, which he cited as an example of how democracy should not work.

"Its probably possible to falsify anything. Just like the previous elections in the U.S. were falsified through voting by mail. Well, its clear what voting by mail is. They bought ballots for $10, wrote them in, and without any supervision from observers, tossed them into mailboxes. And there you go, he said.

He added: Democracy is when people express their will.

Putin was referring to the highly controversial changes to election rules that were implemented in 2020 on the pretense of helping people vote safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the most contentious aspects was permitting mail in ballots, which makes it far easier to cast fraudulent votes than in-person voting. Donald Trump challenged the election and accused it of being rigged, partly due to mail-in ballots that could not be audited, along with a number of irregularities seen across several states.

Russian elections criticized for being undemocratic

Putin is currently running for a new six-year presidential term in an election that opponents have claimed is undemocratic. Critics say that the election is not a fair contest because the 71-year-old leader has unchecked power. The Russian constitution was amended in 2020 to raise the presidential term from four to six years and provide him with a clean slate to run again by cancelling out the previous terms he has served.

Moreover, most of his genuine opponents are in exile, imprisoned or dead. Alexei Navalny, his main rival for the presidential seat, is currently serving more than 30 years in prison on questionable charges. An independent politician who announced she planned to challenge Putin on an anti-war platform, Yekaterina Duntsova, saw her candidacy rejected within three days of her application on the grounds that she made multiple mistakes on her application form.

Critics also claim that the electronic voting used in the country makes it easier for authorities to manipulate people's votes in favor of Putin without being detected.

Putin is widely expected to win a fifth term in office in his country's March elections, which would make him the longest serving leader of Russia since Josef Stalin. Winning in March would keep him in the presidency until 2030, at which point he could still serve a further six years should he decide to run again.

Putin is not wrong about American elections

While many of the criticisms of Putin are fair, his assessment of the American voting system in the last election was painfully accurate.

A survey conducted by the Heartland Institute and Rasmussen Reports revealed that one out of every five voters who used mail-in ballots during the 2020 elections admitted to committing some type of voter fraud. For example, 21 percent admitted that they filled out a ballot, either fully or partially, for a family member or friend  something that is illegal in every state. Seventeen percent of voters admitted that they voted in a state in which they were no longer a permanent resident, while 8 percent of respondents said that a family member, friend or organization offered them money or a reward for voting in the election.

Overall, 43 percent of voters used mail-in ballots in the election, which is the highest percentage to do so in the nation's history.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

Reuters.com

BBC.com

Finance.Yahoo.com
Taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission meet the press in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2024. The three taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission made their first public appearance in Beijing on Friday, 80 days subsequent to their return from space.

The Shenzhou-16 spaceship was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 30, 2023, carrying three crew members: Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao. (Photo by Han Haidan/Xinhua)

BEIJING, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The three taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission made their first public appearance in Beijing on Friday, 80 days subsequent to their return from space.

The Shenzhou-16 spaceship was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 30, 2023, carrying three crew members: Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao. They stayed in orbit for 154 days, during which they conducted one extravehicular activity and delivered the fourth live class from the Tiangong space station.

Wearing four badges of honor from his successful spaceflights on his chest, commander Jing said his crew, for the first time, comprised a diverse trio of taikonauts from different career backgrounds, including aircraft pilot, flight engineer, and payload specialist.

"Professional handles professional affairs," said the senior pilot, adding that the division of work was clear-cut, each one being charged with specific tasks.

The Shenzhou-16 mission marked Jing's fourth journey into space, making him the most experienced taikonaut.

Flight engineer Zhu was responsible for the maintenance and repair of the space station platform. He said the greatest challenge was to ensure "zero mistakes in daily operations" during the five-month mission.

"We successfully completed the mission and ensured the safe, stable, efficient, and long-term operation of the space station," Zhu told the media.

Payload specialist Gui was the first civilian taikonaut to fly in space. "Having the opportunity to participate in a multitude of cutting-edge research projects in space was an extraordinary experience, and I take great pride in it," Gui shared his feelings.

The spectacled university professor said he would incorporate the accomplishments attained throughout the space mission into his future scientific research endeavors, classroom instruction, and talent cultivation.

The three crew members were in good health. After the medical quarantine and recuperative care, they will undergo a health assessment before returning to normal training. 

Gui Haichao, a taikonaut from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission, answers the question of a journalist when meeting the press in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2024. The three taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission made their first public appearance in Beijing on Friday, 80 days subsequent to their return from space.

The Shenzhou-16 spaceship was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 30, 2023, carrying three crew members: Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao. (Photo by Zhang Xinfang/Xinhua)

Jing Haipeng, a taikonaut from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission, answers the question of a journalist when meeting the press in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2024. The three taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission made their first public appearance in Beijing on Friday, 80 days subsequent to their return from space.

The Shenzhou-16 spaceship was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 30, 2023, carrying three crew members: Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao. (Photo by Zhang Xinfang/Xinhua)

Zhu Yangzhu, a taikonaut from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission, answers the question of a journalist when meeting the press in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 19, 2024. The three taikonauts from China's Shenzhou-16 crewed mission made their first public appearance in Beijing on Friday, 80 days subsequent to their return from space.

The Shenzhou-16 spaceship was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 30, 2023, carrying three crew members: Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu, and Gui Haichao. (Photo by Zhang Xinfang/Xinhua)

Editor: JYZ
Scientists discover that cancer drugs might help restore insulin production in patients with diabetes

Scientists have discovered a method that may eliminate the need for regular insulin injections for people with diabetes.

In 2021, 38.4 million Americans (11.6 percent of the population) were projected to have diabetes  29.7 million were diagnosed while 8.7 million were undiagnosed. At least two million Americans have Type 1 diabetes, including an estimated 304,000 children and adolescents.

The research team, which was spearheaded by Sam El-Osta of Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, identified two drugs previously approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States for rare cancers that can rapidly restore insulin production in cells damaged by diabetes.

For Type 1 diabetes, which represents about 10 percent of all diabetes cases in Australia, the immune system destroys pancreatic cells. Because of this, patients require daily insulin injections to manage their condition.

Details of the study, which was conducted by scientists from Melbournes Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, were published in the journal Nature on Jan. 1. (Related: Study: Consistent intermittent fasting can cause remission in over 50% of patients with Type 2 diabetes.)

Researchers reported that when stimulated by small molecule inhibitors in the cancer medications, the cells were found to respond to glucose and produce insulin within 48 hours. The researchers are hopeful that this therapy could also benefit the 30 percent of Australians living with Type 2 diabetes who may eventually need insulin injections.

El-Osta said this regenerative approach could be an important advance toward clinical development. He added that before the study, "the regenerative process has been incidental, and lacking confirmation."

How diabetes affects the body

Diabetes is an autoimmune disease where a patient's blood glucose levels are too high. While diabetes affects children and adults, its causes are still not fully understood.

The autoimmune destruction of native beta cells responsible for insulin release characterizes Type 1 diabetes.

Current treatments include regularly monitoring one's blood glucose levels by administering multiple daily insulin injections, insulin pumps, or getting a pancreas transplant.

However, these treatments often cause many side effects, prompting researchers to look for other alternative therapeutic approaches.

Meanwhile, Type 2 diabetes is linked to strong genetic and family-related risk factors. It is also associated with some modifiable lifestyle risk factors.

Patients develop the condition when their bodies become resistant to insulins normal effects. Eventually, the body will lose the ability to produce sufficient insulin in the pancreas.

This makes the pancreas compensate by producing more insulin. However, this is bad because this overproduction will eventually cause wear and tear on the insulin-producing cells, causing Type 2 diabetes.

The research team's recent discovery marks the first time that a drug was identified to "rewire" insulin production in people with diabetes.

Diabetes and regenerative therapy

Keith Al-Hasani, a senior research fellow, explained that the next phase of research includes testing the regenerative approach in preclinical models before developing inhibitors as medications for those with diabetes.

The scientists hope that regenerative therapy could help solve the current problem of donor organ shortages and offer hope for the many people dealing with insulin-dependent Type 2 diabetes.

The diabetes epidemic affects at least two million Australians, with almost 120,000 developing the condition in 2023.

Globally, more than 530 million adults have diabetes, with the number expected to skyrocket to 643 million by 2030.

Sof Andrikopoulos, chief executive of the Australian Diabetes Society, commented that the new study could help improve the quality of life of those living with diabetes.

According to Andrikopoulos, those with Type 1 diabetes stay alive and manage their glucose by either injecting themselves three or four times a day with needles or using an insulin pump. He added that because of the study findings, one day people with diabetes may only need to inject themselves only once a day instead of four times.

He is hopeful that in the future, the study findings can be used to help patients who require these tedious treatments and that in time, they will eventually be cured.

Diabetes Australia is also hopeful about the research, adding that it is encouraging for people with Type 1 diabetes. A spokeswoman said research remains "critical in the fight to combat the diabetes epidemic."

"It creates possibilities, changes lives, and gives hope to the millions of Australians living with, and at risk of developing diabetes," concluded the Diabetes Australia spokeswoman.

Watch the video below to learn about DeWayne McCulley, a man who reversed his Type 2 diabetes.

This video is from the EnergyMe333 channel on Brighteon.com.

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Vitamin D found to prevent diabetes: STUDY.

Sources include:

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Brighteon.com
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz endorses DONALD TRUMP for president

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz has formally endorsed former President Donald Trump to be the Republican presidential nominee.

The senator issued his endorsement on Jan. 16, telling Sean Hannity of Fox News: "I am proud to endorse Donald Trump for President of the United States. I look forward to supporting him enthusiastically."

According to Cruz, Trump's victory at the Iowa caucuses the previous day  with the former president taking 51 percent of the vote  was a dominating victory. "He won 98 of the counties; I believe this race is over," he told Hannity. (Related: VICTORY: Trump takes Iowa in historic caucus win.)

"The men and women of Iowa  take their responsibility incredibly seriously. They scrutinize the candidates. It's an amazing process and I'm a big believer in letting democracy play out."

Trump won most of the Iowa caucuses on Jan. 15, claiming a 30-point lead over second-placer Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. The governor secured a small lead over former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. According to Cruz, Trump's landslide victory in Iowa proved that the latter's candidacy is "compelling."

The senator for the Lone Star State also stressed that it is time for Republicans to unite and come together. He said: "We've [got to] beat [incumbent President] Joe Biden. We've [got to] beat this disastrous cultural Marxist agenda in the White House."

Incidentally, Cruz was celebrating his win in Iowa over Trump during his own bid for the presidency in 2016. He told Hannity that the process of the Iowa caucuses and his experience there played into his decision to endorse the former chief executive.

Trump continues to lead all public polling in Texas, receiving the bulk of endorsements from GOP officials in the state. That includes Gov. Greg Abbott, who endorsed Trumps comeback campaign for the White House while hosting the former president at the Texas portion of the U.S.-Mexico border in November of last year.

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Utah Sen. Mike Lee also gave their endorsements to Trump. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who withdrew from the presidential race following Trump's victory in the caucuses, gave his endorsement.

GOP primary voters are going all out for Trump

Trump's support among national Republican primary voters has now risen to its highest level yet, CBS News pointed out. Despite the legal battles he's been fighting, his standing with primary voters remains and some of his recent controversial statements resonate with many voters  particularly the Make America Great Again (MAGA) crowd.

Some of his rivals have asserted that Trump's ongoing legal issues could hurt his chances in the general election, but Republican voters still view him as their best chance to beat Biden.

While Republicans look forward to Trump's second presidential term, other world leaders are expressing concern. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned on Jan. 17 that it would be "a step back" if Trump won the November 2024 election.

"It wasn't easy the first time and if there is a second time, it won't be easy either," the Canadian leader said in French. "But we can't imagine a day when it will ever be easy with the Americans. A Trump win would be a step back and a victory for a populism that reflects a lot of anguish and fury ... without necessarily providing solutions."

Visit Trump.news for more news about the former U.S. president ahead of the November 2024 presidential election.

Watch Greg Kelly of Newsmax explain that Trump had the ultimate political achievement with his win in the Iowa caucuses below.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

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The latest report warned of a salmonella outbreak linked to the Charcuterie Meats in the US, causing hospitalizations and illnesses in about 22 states in the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminded Americans to watch out for signs of salmonella linked to the Charcuterie Meats. Authorities are investigating the Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler from Sam's Club or Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta from Costco.

According to the reports, the common signs of infection include the following:

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Fever

Dehydration

Stomach cramps

People are advised to seek healthcare centers when they feel the said signs. Symptoms can likely become noticeable in six hours to six days after being exposed to the salmonella outbreak.

Homeowners should also clean areas that were touched by the said products, particularly containers and surfaces.

Salmonella Infections in US

In the latest news reports, the infections were reported in 22 states in the US with hospitalizations. CDC reported that the infections could become dangerous to older adults, people with medical conditions and children.

Americans should not eat the said food to avoid the illnesses associated with salmonella. The case managed to double after the last report on January 19. The recent details showed that at least 10 people were hospitalized with 47 reported illnesses.

Authorities are also expected to determine if other products are contaminated. People should be extra careful in buying the said food products.

If they consume the infected supplies, homeowners should watch out for signs of salmonella. Severe cases can become dangerous to vulnerable sectors.

Salmonella infection is more common in the summer or warming conditions.

Also Read: Salmonella Outbreak Spreads to 11 States; Experts Warn Against Kissing Pet Turtles

Salmonella Outbreak Safety and Preparedness

Preventing salmonella is helpful to avoid getting sick or infected. Understanding the different safety steps can lower the chance of salmonella in every household in the US.

People can become infected by food and animals. Chicken, eggs, vegetables and pork could have bacteria from salmonella. When homeowners hear reports or food safety advisories, they should immediately keep away from the reported food.

According to the advisory, salmonella can easily spread to other people. Washing hands or bringing sanitizers can kill salmonella or prevent the risk of infection, especially when they become exposed to animal feces or changing diapers.

If you have any pets, cleaning their cage or contents will reduce the outbreak of salmonella in your house or community.

In the kitchen, utensils should be washed. People should also wash uncooked poultry and fruits. When cooking, thorough cooking of meat will kill the bacteria.

Related Article: FDA Expands Cantaloupe Recalls As Salmonella Infections Affect 32 States

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World New
Recent research emphasized the urgent need to protect old-growth forests, which are crucial in fighting climate change effects and rising temperatures.

World forests are important for the environment and animals, including for humans' livelihood. However, climate change and global warming pose a significant threat to trees and forests. The slow growth of forests will also affect carbon sequestration.

According to the latest reports, forests have suffered from the following pressing threats:

Global warming

Climate change

Deforestation

Diseases

Extreme weather events

Urbanization

As a result, international researchers have been studying forests and trees. In the latest report, researchers emphasized that old-growth forests are crucial in addressing the effects of climate change.

Old-Growth Forest World Benefits

In the Southern Appalachian Region, researchers raised concerns about the impact of severe drought in the forests in the area. Extreme dry conditions can likely ignite deadly and raging wildfires.

In the study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the latest report warned of effects on forest growth and health. Climate change can exacerbate extreme conditions, slowing down the carbon sequestration.

While forests can withstand challenging temperatures, the intensifying climate change be devastating. In the US, the Forest Service helps to monitor the health of forests.

The recently highlighted that the US is expected to develop more ways to protect old-growth forests amidst the threats of rising global temperatures. The ecological benefits are essential to many animals and communities.

Old-growth forests can also survive warming temperatures and wildfires. exacerbated by greenhouse gas emissions.

Forests in unprotected areas are mostly vulnerable to threats. As a result, communities and cities should develop policies to preserve old and mature forests to avoid potential decline.

Talking Plants And Danger Cues in Forests

Researchers unveiled that plants could have ways of communicating potential danger cues with other plants, especially when they are wounded or attacked. The research looked into the danger responses of tomato plants.

The research findings were published in the Nature Communications journal. Researchers discovered ways plants protect each other. The natural airborne compounds allow them to send cues during herbivore attacks.

Furthermore, the study unearthed two calcium signals that help with the danger signs (Z-3-HAL and E-2-HAL). The discovery will help international researchers mitigate the widespread impacts of diseases and other threats.

Plants and trees are essential to communities and animals as sources of food and protection. It can mitigate extreme weather events, especially flooding and storms.

Related Article: US Forests Face Declining Productivity and Carbon Sequestration Under Climate Change

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News
Authorities said that at least 90 were killed following the freezing storms across the United States.

Officials said that the fatalities include at least 25 in Tennessee and 16 in Oregon. These areas remain under a state of emergency following the severe ice storms.

The other fatalities have been reported in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Washington, Kentucky, Wisconsin, New York, New Jersey and in other areas.

Water, Power Supply Issues

Due to the weather condition, tens of thousands of people have remained without power across most of the areas of US.

Furthermore, officials in Mississippi are also looking into the information circulating online about potential storm-related water shortages, which are prompting residents to store water in their bathtubs.

Due to this, there has been a temporary drop in water pressure and dry faucets for thousands of residents in Jackson.

Meanwhile, there were also water issues that are affecting residents in Tennessee. The local utility there said it had already fixed 41 water mains and more than 4,000 water pipes due to the effects of the cold temperatures.

Many schools and government offices have also closed operations as well as the operations of the State legislature, canceling in-person meetings all week.

Meteorologists warned that the freezing stormy conditions are expected to continue until the middle of the week.

Read Also: US Winter Storm: Extreme Winter Conditions Kill Over 58 People, 100 Million Americans Under Winter Weather Alerts

Freezing Rain To Continue

The National Weather Service (NWS) said that the high pressure over the Central Appalachians/Mid-Atlantic Middle Mississippi Valley would slowly move over the Western Atlantic by Tuesday evening.

The cold air associated with the high will linger over the Central/Southern Plains, Middle Mississippi Valley, and Great Lakes/Ohio Valleys.

In addition, the flow around the area of high pressure over the Eastern US will stream moisture northward from the Western Gulf of Mexico combined with upper-level energy.

This weather condition will aid in producing rain over parts of eastern Texas into the Lower Mississippi Valley on Monday into Tuesday.

The moisture flow will also produce showers, thunderstorms, and heavy rain over parts of the Western Gulf Coast and Lower Mississippi Valley.

Due to this, the Weather Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk of excessive rainfall over parts of the Western Gulf Coast and Lower Mississippi Valley from Monday into Tuesday morning.

The associated heavy rain will create mainly localized areas of flash flooding, with urban areas, roads, and small streams the most vulnerable.

On the other hand, the moisture flows northward into the cold air over the country's middle part, producing heavy rain and freezing rain over parts of the Southern Plains, Lower/Middle Mississippi Valley from Sunday evening into Monday evening.

Moreover, light rain/freezing rain will develop over parts of the Western Ohio Valley into the Great Lakes and Sunday evening into Monday evening.

From Monday evening into Tuesday, the rain/freezing rain is predicted to move more into the Great Lakes/northern Ohio Valley, creating moderate rain/freezing rain over the region.

The light rain/freezing rain will continue over parts of the Central Plains/Middle Mississippi Valley.

On the other hand, the moisture will produce heavy snow over the Sierra Nevada Mountains from Sunday evening into Monday evening.

The system moving away from the area will produce lighter snow over the Sierra Nevada Mountains from Monday evening into Tuesday.

Related Article: Heavy Rain To Hit California On Weekend
About 2.2 billion people globally have no access to clean drinking water, the United Nations discovered. In the latest report, researchers from Barcelona found ways to address environmental problems and water crisis, which the organization believes will only get worse in the coming years.

The water crisis is a pressing global concern. Pollution and climate change have caused widespread stress to oceans and water security. Extreme weather events have intensified drought and heatwaves, causing more concerns to bodies of water.

Improving water quality and supplies will significantly help poorer communities without access to clean water. With a growing population, there is an urgent need to increase water sources.

Furthermore, the World Economic Forum explained the increasing global freshwater demand by 2030. According to the report, an estimated increase of freshwater demand by 40%is expected.

The recent report warned of slow global progress in attaining water security, particularly for water-scarce areas.

Artificial Intelligence Seen to Fight Global Water Crisis

In an effort to solve the global water problems, Earth05 aims to employ AI technologies in finding ways and mitigate the impacts on water security. The Barcelona-based non-profit developed the project, and it was launched at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland.

The United Nations also reported that about 4.2 billion people have no access to clean sanitation. The new project with AI support can be extremely helpful in finding green solutions.

According to experts, Earth05 can unveil ways to integrate AI into water education and initiatives. It will provide new insights into the water consumption and climate events that affect water security, including detecting potential leakage.

In addition, the AI project will also analyze possible emergence of contaminations.

In the latest NWN report, EPA found the slow progress in the US in dealing with nitrogen and nutrient pollution. Excessive pollution can result in algal bloom and poor water quality, impacting human communities and wildlife.

For crops and irrigation systems, AI will provide sustainability reports. The project can also raise awareness about water-scarce countries or communities, calling for urgent actions to solve the problem. Meanwhile. experts also urged the resilience of crops against diseases and hotter temperatures.

For extreme weather events, the Earth05 will also predict the potential impacts or emergence. It will allow communities to develop mitigation and preparation plans, particularly for climate change effects.

Also Read: Old-Growth Forests Show Crucial to Fight Climate Change Effects, Rising Temperatures

Frequency of Drought And Climate Change

Climate change and extreme drought have been pressing environmental stressors that have impacted water security. Climate change can shape the weather events, causing less to lack of rainfall.

The dry vegetation and scorching heat can also bring deadly and raging wildfires, affecting crop supplies and forest health. The frequency of drought will be more difficult for farmers and cities.

Related Article: US Forests Face Declining Productivity and Carbon Sequestration Under Climate Change

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News
Archaeologists excavating Temple of Amarysia Artemis, a sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, have revealed the discovery of a 2,000-year-old temple and relics, including gold and silver jewelry.

Temples And Treasures

A "monumental building in the heart of the sanctuary" was discovered in 2017, according to Greece's Ministry of Culture.

Another temple was discovered in 2023. The ministry reported that excavating this second temple yielded "rich relics" and jewelry. Other excavations uncovered houses from the ninth and eighth centuries B.C.

Those buildings included several hearths positioned in the temple's nave, including the ash-caked altar loaded with offerings like pottery, vases, Corinthian alabaster, or carved mineral gypsum, gold and silver jewelry studded with coral and amber, amulets, and bronze and iron fittings.

The altar also had many pieces of burned bone.

Some of the ceramic pieces predate the newfound temple and were burned in the late eighth century B.C., prompting experts to believe that the altar was formerly outside the temple but was later transferred within.

In the sixth century B.C., brick partitions were built at the sanctuary's heart for increased stability, leading researchers to believe that the temple was "partially destroyed" by a fire.

Archaeologists discovered many dry stone walls from another building that had stood on the site, as well as several metal figures fashioned like bulls and rams beneath the temple. They also discovered fragments of buildings from the seventh and ninth centuries BCE.

Next to the first temple, there is a defensive system from the more recent early Copper Age, which lasted from 4000 to 3500 B.C.

A crew of Swiss and Greek archaeologists conducts the excavations on an annual basis. The ministry stated that the research effort began approximately 15 years ago.

Read Also: Priestess of Goddess Aphrodite Found at 2,100-Year-Old Burial Site in Russia

Study Of The Site

A horseshoe-shaped altar was the most distinctive of the designs, with thick layers of ash rich in burned bones indicating constant use.

"The possibility that some of them predate the temple cannot be ruled out. The first level of use of the horseshoe altar yielded pottery dating to the end of the 8th century BC," the ministry said.

Geometric period bronze figures depicting bulls and rams were uncovered in what the experts believe to be some of the oldest portions.

The site's history is considerably more extensive than the temple itself, with test cuts revealing remains of buildings dating back to the ninth century BC.

Although the investigation into the earliest of these levels has only recently begun, the first discoveries reveal that the worship had its beginnings in the centuries after the end of the Mycenaean period.

The sanctuary and its temples are being studied alongside a survey of the surrounding area. Officials stated that the study "aims to understand the inclusion of the sanctuary in the ancient landscape" by examining the area, its rural settlements and agricultural land, as well as connectivity and links between ancient cities.

Earlier this week, Greek archaeologists revealed the discovery of an old aqueduct built by a Roman emperor, together with more than two dozen silver coins.

In 2015, a 3500-year-old warrior cemetery was discovered in southern Greece, containing solid gold rings, elaborately carved swords, fine-toothed ivory combs, and over a thousand priceless stone beads.

The treasure, according to the ministry, is "the most important to have been discovered in continental Greece in 65 years."

Related Article: Ancient Roman Odeon Discovered by Archaeologists at Remote Site in Crete
Enas Abu-Khalaf (1st R), Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) head of communications for the Middle East, speaks at a press conference in Cairo, Egypt, Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)

CAIRO, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- A medic from Doctors Without Borders, or Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), has given first-hand perspective about the challenges and experiences he had while working in a Gaza hospital during the Israel-Hamas conflict.

During a press conference held here Friday, Enrico Vallaperta, an Italian intensive care nurse with the MSF who left Gaza on Thursday, said he had worked in central Gaza's Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital for several weeks amid very tough and dangerous conditions.

"When I arrived at the hospital, there were 650 patients and thousands of refugees living in the hospital and between the hospital building and its external walls," Vallaperta told reporters.

He said the hospital was ordered by the Israeli army to evacuate 20 days after his arrival as the ground operation and bombing got closer, adding that evacuation orders were also sent to residential blocks 200 meters away from the hospital, making the situation riskier for the staff, patients and refugees alike.

"We could not continue to work in a safe context. Deciding to evacuate means taking the staff out and leaving patients inside because we can move 700 patients to nowhere as there is no safe place," he revealed.

"We decided to move to the south of the Gaza Strip. Two days later, we faced another difficult situation as a bomb was dropped at the shelter where some of our staff and their families lived, yet fortunately, the bomb did not explode," Vallaperta recalled.

However, he said the daughter of one of the drivers of the MSF was killed in the attack, affirming there would have been a mass loss of lives if the bomb exploded.

"I left the south Thursday. Over the past 10 days before I left, I held some activities to support hospitals in the southern area," Vallaperta added.

He stressed that the situation there is getting worse every day as getting food and healthcare is extremely challenging.

For her part, Helen Ottens-Patterson, MSF's emergency coordinator in Cairo, said MSF had provided medical services, including surgery, post-operative care, maternal health, pre-and post-natal care, in addition to physiotherapy, and mental health care, in several hospitals scattered all over the Gaza Strip.

"Our mission in Egypt is mainly to support our activities in Gaza with supplies," she added.

She noted that MSF had sent 107 tonnes of medical assistance into Gaza, most of which were medical supplies and food.

Meanwhile, Enas Abu-Khalaf, MSF head of communications for the Middle East, called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that will spare the lives of civilians, restore the flow of humanitarian assistance, and re-establish the healthcare system in the war-torn territory.

"After more than three months of the war, the suffering of Palestinians trapped in Gaza can no longer be put into words," Abu-Khalaf told reporters.

She noted that the indiscriminate Israeli bombing has destroyed buildings and entire neighborhoods in the Gaza Strip, adding that people in Gaza need a "sustainable ceasefire now."

"Attacks against hospitals and civilians must stop immediately. Therefore, working purposefully to reach a ceasefire is the most effective way to ensure this," Abu-Khalaf stressed.

Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned of a humanitarian and health catastrophe in the Gaza Strip as humanitarian space and access to medical services continue to shrink.

"Hospitals are closing, patients are lacking access to health facilities, health workers are being forced to flee for their safety," Sean Casey, WHO emergency medical teams coordinator, said during a United Nations weekly briefing via video link from Gaza on January 9.

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 Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 24,762, the Gaza-based Health Ministry said on Friday.

Helen Ottens-Patterson (L), emergency coordinator in Cairo of Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), speaks at a press conference in Cairo, Egypt, Jan. 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)

Enrico Vallaperta, an Italian intensive care nurse with the Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), speaks at a press conference in Cairo, Egypt, Jan. 19, 2024.(Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)

Editor: WJH
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KAMPALA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Senior officials from Uganda, Sudan and Bolivia have hailed China for its role in promoting fairness in global issues.

China has been playing an important role in the political, social and economic well-being of developing countries, they told Xinhua during the 19th Non-Aligned Movement summit that concluded on Saturday and the 3rd South Summit that commenced on Sunday.

Sudanese Acting Foreign Minister Ali Al-Sadiq said that China is a key partner of Africa. "We look favorably upon the Chinese presence on the continent because China is committed to the development of African countries with no strings attached."

China has always supported developing countries right from the struggles against colonialism, said Uganda's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem. "China stood with Africa for the liberation of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia; China was there."

Oryem hailed China's position on the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, noting that the Asian country has always advocated for the peaceful settlement of conflicts.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bolivia Celinda Sosa Lunda described China as a development partner of the South American country. She said Bolivia shares the same view as China in the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict. "We will keep supporting every effort to save the lives of the Palestinian people."

Editor: WJH
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."

Editor: WJH
Susan McKinney is the librarian at the St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library. She received her masters degree in library science from the University of Illinois. She came here from Indiana for graduate school and fell in love with the area. She has lived here ever since. She is an avid reader and enjoys mystery, suspense, fantasy and action novels.
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On January 22, 2024, individuals are indulging in the selection of Chinese New Year decorations at the Licun Grand Market in Qingdao, Shandong Province. With the Spring Festival on the horizon, the Licun Grand Market in Qingdao is vibrant and lively. Citizens are choosing auspicious items like lucky stickers, couplets, and Chinese knots to adorn their homes for the New Year. The lively atmosphere captures the essence of the New Year in this century-old grand market. (Photo by Zhang Ying / Guangming Photo)

On January 22, 2024, at the Nanjie Market in Jiyuan City, Henan Province, residents are selecting various festive decorations. As the Spring Festival approaches, businesses in the Jiyuan urban area are experiencing a peak in the sale of holiday decorations. Items such as couplets, lucky stickers, red lanterns, Chinese knots, and other red-themed decorations are prominently displayed in malls and supermarkets, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. (Photo by Zheng Zemin / Guangming Photo)

On January 22, 2024, citizens are choosing Chinese New Year decorations at the Nianhua Street in Duyun City, Qiannan Buyei and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou Province. With the Spring Festival nearing, people are selecting items like couplets, lucky characters, lanterns, and other Chinese New Year decorations, warmly welcoming the approaching joyous season. (Photo by Xiao Wei / Guangming Photo)

Editor: WRX
Researchers with McMaster University have created the instruction manual that will help scientists across the globe find hard-to-detect B cells.

Led by PhD student Alyssa Phelps and Department of Medicine Assistant Professor Josh Koenig, researchers wanted to chart a path to finding these cells as part of their work in understanding food allergies. Their work was published in the journal Nature Protocols on Jan. 19, 2024.

B cells are a type of immune cell that makes antibodies. These cells help fight conditions like cancer and infections but can also cause autoimmune diseases and allergies.

One of the big problems with trying to study these B cells, the ones that make these antibodies that have all kinds of different and very important functions, is that they're really, really, rare. It's hard to find them. And so, you have to have very good tools that will help you study these things." Josh Koenig, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, McMaster University

To give an example of just how rare these cells can be, Koenig pointed to a peanut-specific B cell. It makes up less than 0.0001 per cent of immune cells in human blood.

The team adopted a method originally created by Justin Taylor, who now operates the Taylor Lab out of the University of Virginia. Taylor created a method using antigen tetramers to sensitively tag and enrich specific B cells so they can be detected.

Tetramers are made up of four antigen molecules, which in this case, can be customized by scientists. The customization is vast and can cover everything from peanuts to COVID-19-specific B cells.

"After using the technology for a few years in several of our studies and making multiple different allergen tetramers and antigen tetramers for other people, we decided to write up a protocol paper to help other people study these incredibly important B cells," says Phelps.

In addition to better understanding how allergies work in humans, tetramers can be used to study the efficacy of vaccines. This is something that was done by Koenig and his team in assisting McMaster researchers Matthew Miller, Brian Lichty, and Zhou Xing in determining whether their vaccine candidate activated protective COVID-specific B cells.

"With these protocols now published, more researchers around the globe will be able to make these types of tools to help to push their science ahead," Taylor says.

The study was supported in part by a $10 million donation by the Schroeder Foundation to McMaster University. Funding was also provided from ALK Abello A/S, a pharmaceutical company based in Denmark.
Many states have passed new laws that place restrictions on the duration of first-time opioid prescriptions to help address the opioid epidemic.

While most laws are one-size-fits-all, policies more tailored to the patient, such as their age or clinical setting (outpatient clinic, emergency room, etc.), were more effective at reducing the length of opioid prescriptions, reports a new Northwestern Medicine study.

It is the first study to examine the effectiveness of setting-specific opioid prescribing durations.

The study analyzed 2017 to 2019 data from West Virginia, a state at the epicenter of the opioid crisis that in 2018 instituted a unique, setting-specific approach to prescription-duration limits. These included a seven-day limit for adult patients in outpatient hospital departments and offices; a four-day limit for adult patients in emergency departments and a three-day limit for pediatric patients in any clinical service location.

This is in contrast to other states, which imposed the same prescription-duration limit for all patients (e.g. Kentucky, three days or Pennsylvania, seven days), regardless of their clinical setting or age.

The study found tailored duration limits helped reduce the length of opioid prescriptions. There was a 56.8% reduction in prescription length amid patients in hospital and outpatient settings (seven-day limit); a 37.5% reduction in prescription length amid patients in emergency department settings (four-day limit); and a 26.5% reduction in prescription length amid pediatric patients (three-day limit).

We have clear results that an opioid duration-limiting policy can work to reduce the length of prescriptions, but not as most states have designed them." Lindsay Allen, corresponding author, assistant professor of emergency medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

The study will be published Jan. 19 in JAMA Health Forum.

A reduction in high-dose and follow-up prescriptions

The study also found reduced prescription lengths did not result in physicians writing stronger or more follow-up prescriptions for adults as a way of compensating for shorter prescription durations, which was a potential concern, Allen said. Instead, the policy was associated with reductions in high-dose and follow-up prescriptions in the outpatient setting.

"This could be because the law heightened concerns about lengthy opioid use, which in turn drove down doctors' willingness to write follow-up prescriptions," Allen said. "Also, prior to the 2018 policy, longer initial prescriptions may have built up tolerance in patients, which did not happen with shorter initial prescriptions."

Origin of prescription-duration limits

To help fight America's opioid epidemic, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2016 issued recommended guidelines to help primary care clinicians weigh benefits and risks of opioid treatment for chronic pain. That guidance led to states setting their own prescribing limits, which were often one-size-fits-all (not tailored to patients' unique circumstances), and a misapplication of the CDC guidelines.

"This is what happens when we have legislators making laws without consulting medical or policy experts," Allen said. "The laws were not based on any evidence about what the 'right' opioid duration limit is. That's why we had some states making a three-day limit while others made a 14-day limit. It was a mess."

Because of these inconsistencies, there have been mixed findings on the effectiveness of these policies, Allen said. In 2022, the CDC updated its guidelines.

A focus on pediatric and Medicaid-enrollee prescriptions

Pediatric patients have not been independently studied in prior work on prescribing limits. This is an important knowledge gap, given recently documented increases in opioid-associated deaths in the pediatric population, Allen said.

The study also focused on Medicaid enrollees, who have been disproportionately affected by the opioid epidemic. Medicaid patients are prescribed more opioids than non-enrollees, largely reflecting that those who qualify for the program (whether through disability or not) are more likely to have chronic conditions and comorbidities that require pain relief.

Participants in the study were between 12 and 64 years old, did not actively have cancer and were not covered by Medicare. The sample included 44,703 individuals before the 2018 policy was imposed and 16,746 after the 2018 policy went into effect.

Allen said the next steps in the research are to look at potential risks of such limits.

"We know that reduced prescription length is associated with reduced risk for opioid dependence, which, in theory, is good, but we need to do more research to determine if these limits actually reduce downstream opioid use disorder or if they could result in unintended consequences, like seeking out pain relief from illicit opioids," Allen said.
Norwegian healthtech startup HoloCare scales its commercial footprint across the UK and Europe, following UKCA and CE certification. The mixed reality and AI-powered platform will initially launch in five hospitals to support pre-surgical planning.

Surgeons using HoloCares mixed reality platform to visualize a patients liver. Image Credit: HoloCare

HoloCares software creates interactive 3D holograms of an individual patients organ, allowing surgeons to precisely plan and personalise surgeries to the patients unique anatomy. This better spatial understanding could support surgeons to carry out operations more efficiently and accurately  helping improve wait times, improve patient surgery outcomes, and improve clinician wellbeing.

The technology will initially be available to improve the quality of planning for complex liver surgery (liver resections)  where part of the liver tissue is removed  which is commonly used in the treatment of liver cancer (19% of UK treatments) and bowel cancer (26.1% of UK treatments).

Professor Peter Lodge, a consultant surgeon based at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and internationally renowned for his work in liver surgery, will be chairing a new clinical advisory board for HoloCare, an important part of clinical regulation. The team at Leeds will soon be training with the new technology and reporting back the potential impact on patient care as part of a new evaluation. He said:

We fully expect this exciting new advance to make decision making for liver surgery and other liver cancer therapies easier, more accurate and faster. We are looking forward to helping HoloCare take liver radiology forward in a way we have not thought is possible until recently. We can see wide implications for all types of liver surgery and interventions, saving time and money in patient care.

The companys newly UKCA and CE marked (Class 2b) technology  which means the company has been assessed to meet high safety, health, and environmental protection requirements, and can now trade in the UK and the European Economic Area (EEA)  is launching at five UK and European hospitals, including Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK and Oslo University Hospital, Norway.

The company plans to launch in a further 10 European hospitals in 2024.

In order to gain CE mark approval, HoloCare has completed clinical research in collaboration with Oslo University Hospital to assess the outcomes of its technology in a clinical setting. The results of this research will be published soon.

Professor Bjrn Edwin, Section Manager and Professor at the Intervention Centre, Oslo University Hospital where he specialises in liver and pancreas surgeries, has been using HoloCares software as part of the clinical research study:

As a surgeon specialising in minimally invasive surgery, HoloCares software has transformed the way I approach operations. Im able to zoom in on the intricacies of a patients anatomy, to plan exactly how I will approach a surgery in the most efficient (and least invasive) way. Ive worked closely with HoloCares team to really test the technology to its limits, and have seen promising results.
Researchers have found Queenslanders from lower socio-economic areas are at higher risk of dental disease due to a lack of fluoridated water.

University of Queensland biostatistician Christopher Sexton led a team that investigated the link between geographical areas' socio-economic status and access to fluoridated water across the state.

We estimated almost 80 per cent of people in Queensland have access to fluoridated water, mostly thanks to councils in the southeast, in areas of higher socio-economic status. But areas of socio-economic disadvantage in the state were less likely to have access to fluoridated water and its benefits for oral health. It means those people have an avoidable greater risk of poor oral health outcomes." Christopher Sexton, biostatistician, University of Queensland

The researchers from UQ's School of Dentistry said the current model for implementing water fluoridation across Queensland could be improved.

"Decisions regarding fluoridation were transferred to local councils in 2012," Mr Sexton said.

"To eliminate socio-geographic inequality of this important evidence-based health intervention, all Queenslanders should have the resources to maintain good oral health."

The researchers said access to fluoridated water was particularly important for people living in rural and remote Queensland, where dental services can be limited.

"Avoidable dental pain and infections can end up being treated by GPs in these areas, placing an unnecessary burden on healthcare systems," Mr Sexton said.

Co-author Professor Loc Do said Queensland has the lowest access to fluoridated water in Australia, despite strong evidence of its benefits.

"Research has found water fluoridation reduces the prevalence of decayed, missing and filled teeth in Australian children by up to 42 per cent," Professor Do said.

"It is a cost-effective and safe way to help reduce rates of dental disease and helps to improve quality of life.

"Queensland's water fluoridation policy should be revised to help improve oral health of all Queenslanders, particularly those living in low socio-economic areas."

The research is published in The Medical Journal of Australia.
Researchers have identified a receptor protein known as CHRM1 as a key player in prostate cancer cells' resistance to docetaxel, a commonly used chemotherapy drug to treat advanced cancer that has spread beyond the prostate. The discovery opens the door to new treatment strategies that could overcome this resistance. This could ultimately help extend the lives of those with prostate cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among men.

Led by a team of scientists at Washington State University, the study showed that blocking CHRM1 in resistant prostate cancer cell lines and an animal model based on patient-derived resistant tissue restored docetaxel's ability to kill cells and stop tumor growth. The researchers did this by using dicyclomine, a drug that selectively inhibits CHRM1 activity. Dicyclomine is already on the market as a generic drug and is currently used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

The effect was pretty dramatic in all the experimental models we tested. And because dicyclomine already has a clinical use, this work has immediate translational potential." Boyang (Jason) Wu, associate professor in the WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and co-senior author on the study

Published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine, the researchers' findings support clinical testing to confirm whether combined use of docetaxel and dicyclomine could help overcome treatment resistance in prostate cancer patients. Docetaxel resistance can develop in prostate cancer after about six months of treatment. Chemotherapy drugs like docetaxel are among very few options available to patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, a lethal form of the disease that no longer responds to hormone therapy.

Wu said this type of combination therapy could also potentially be used for other cancers that are currently being treated with docetaxel, such as breast and lung cancer. It may also be possible to use the same combination strategy with other similar chemotherapy drugs.

In addition to testing resistant cancer cell lines, the research team also tested cells that still responded to docetaxel treatment. They found that using dicyclomine to block CHRM1 in these cells made docetaxel more efficient at killing them. Wu said that this shows that prostate cancer patients could potentially benefit from a combination treatment strategy even before docetaxel resistance develops.

"What this suggests is that the lowest effective dose of docetaxel may be lower when the drug is combined with dicyclomine, compared to when docetaxel is used alone," Wu said. "Being able to use a lower dose could help reduce unwanted side effects and make treatment more manageable for patients."

Aside from Wu, co-authors on the study include co-senior author Tyler Bland-;a former WSU postdoctoral fellow who is now a clinical assistant professor at the University of Idaho-;as well as co-first authors Jing Wang, a recent WSU PhD graduate, and Jing Wei, a WSU postdoctoral fellow. The research team conducted the study in collaboration with scientists at the University of Washington, Medical University of Innsbruck in Austria and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan.

Funding for this study came from a U.S. Department of Defense Prostate Cancer Research Program grant with additional support provided by the National Cancer Institute, a component of the National Institutes of Health, and WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences startup funds.
You wont find another place that makes it as easy to compare yourself with others as social media. Thats not good for you.

Clothes, cars, travel, followers: People with a materialistic mindset always want more and, above all, more than others. Social media provides them with ideal opportunities to compare themselves with others, which makes them susceptible to passive and addictive user behavior. This stresses them out and, ultimately, leads to low life satisfaction. This downward spiral, which turns materialists into less happy people, was identified by researchers from Bochum in an online survey of over 1,200 participants. They published their findings in the journal Telematics and Informatics Reports from January, 8, 2024.

Six questionnaires answered by over 1,200 people

The researchers headed by Dr. Phillip Ozimek from the Faculty of Psychology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, recruited 1,230 people for their online survey. In order to participate, respondents had to use at least one social media channel at least once a week. On average, the participants stated that they spent just over two hours a day on social media.

The research team used six different questionnaires to determine the extent to which the participants had a materialistic attitude and tended to compare themselves with others, whether they used social media more actively or passively, whether they were addicted to social media, how stressed and how satisfied they were with their lives.

Downward spiral set in motion

The data showed that a stronger materialistic approach goes hand in hand with a tendency to compare oneself with others." Dr. Phillip Ozimek, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany

This comparison is very easy to make on social media, primarily through passive use, i.e. by looking at the content posted by other users. Materialism and passive use were also linked to addictive use of social media. "By this we mean, for example, that users are constantly thinking about the respective channels and fear that they are missing out on something if they are not online," explains Phillip Ozimek. This in turn leads to symptoms of poorer mental health, i.e. stress. The final link in the chain is reduced life satisfaction. "Social media is one of six stepping stones to unhappiness," concludes Phillip Ozimek.

Social media attracts and breeds materialists

"Overall, the study provides further evidence that the use of social media is associated with risks, especially for people with a highly materialistic mindset," says the psychologist. This is particularly worrying, because social media can trigger and increase materialistic values, for example through (influencer) marketing. At the same time, the platforms attract materialists anyway, as they are a perfect way to satisfy many materialistic needs.

"It's definitely a good idea to be aware of the amount of time you spend on social media and to reduce it," recommends Phillip Ozimek. He advises against giving up Social Media completely. "If you did, you're likely to overcompensate." The research team also suggests recording materialism and social media use in patients undergoing treatment for mental health disorders. "While these factors are often irrelevant, they can be a starting point for additional interventions that patients can try out at home."
A novel approach to studying the progression of tuberculosis (TB) from infection to disease has identified and treated people at increased risk of developing the disease that current methods of testing would not.

Researchers at the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) hope the findings of their study, published in The Lancet Microbe on 17 January, could help with global efforts to reduce the spread of the disease.

Dr Pranabashis Haldar, Clinical Senior Lecturer in Respiratory Medicine at the University of Leicester and a Principal Investigator at the NIHR Leicester BRC, where the research was carried out, said: "Tuberculosis rates in the UK and around the world are not declining despite global efforts.

"TB is a bacterial disease that causes significant lung damage and can, without treatment, be fatal. It is spread in aerosol by inhaling droplets containing the bacteria. Most people that become infected live with the infection and remain well; however in a small proportion, the infection is not controlled and can progress to cause disease.

"Current tests of TB infection use either a skin test or a blood test, called an interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) to detect an immune response to the infection. However, these tests cannot distinguish between those that are at high or low risk of developing TB.

"An important research goal is to develop better tests that can identify the high risk group, so that we can provide more targeted treatment to prevent TB developing."

In this study researchers used PET-CT, a highly sensitive form of imaging, as a novel way of looking at how the infection progresses, and to identify people at greater risk of developing the disease.

This approach allowed the team to undertake a study evaluating a potential new blood test for identifying those at higher risk, without needing to recruit a large cohort, which can be challenging and very expensive.

Twenty adults traced back to households of people being treated for tuberculosis disease at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust took part.

Participants underwent chest radiography and an IGRA to screen for TB infection. The research team then used two new methods of monitoring the progression of the disease over the following year: PET-CT imaging tools and a new blood test.

PET-CT

Dr Jee Whang Kim, a Clinical Research Fellow from the University of Leicester, who conducted the study said: "In PET-CT scans, patients are given fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a radiotracer which is similar to naturally occurring glucose (a type of sugar) that the body uses it in a similar way.

"By analyzing the areas where the radiotracer is taken up, it's possible to identify areas in the body where something might be going on.

"In this case, we were looking for evidence of metabolic activity associated with infection by the TB bacteria that cannot be seen using a chest x-ray or deduced by the blood tests used in routine clinical practice.

"In keeping with what is understood about the natural history of this infection, we found that the radiotracer activity tended to be taken up around the lungs, or in lymph nodes around the lungs. We then went on to perform a second PET-CT scan after 3 months to find out whether the infection was progressing or not. Where possible, we also took samples from the active sites to test for presence of the TB bacteria."

Phage-based diagnostic

The second novel test was looking for a new biomarker (a biological change) in the blood of patients with the infection.

There is evidence of bacterial escape from where the primary infection occurs (the lungs) during progressive infection, and that escape might occur into the bloodstream. Until now, studies have been limited by challenges of detecting low bacterial numbers." Dr Jee Whang Kim, Clinical Research Fellow from the University of Leicester

In this study the team used a novel bacteriophage-based assay called Actiphage (developed by PBD Biotech).

Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacterial cells and they are highly specific; with each phage preying on a single type of bacteria. The Actiphage assay uses a bacteriophage that attacks live TB bacteria; releasing the bacterial DNA which can then be detected. Using this approach, it is possible to detect very low levels of the bacterial DNA that cannot otherwise be detected using existing clinical tools.

"We wanted to see whether this approach could identify metabolically active and replicating M tuberculosis in the blood of individuals who were otherwise completely well," added Dr Jee Whang Kim.

The 20 TB contacts were all asymptomatic with normal chest X-rays. They underwent a PET-CT baseline scan and, if it was positive and showed metabolic activity that could be sampled, they went on to have a bronchoscopy and sampling. If the baseline PET-CT scan did not show anything that could be sampled or if the sampling was negative for TB, they were monitored with a second PET-CT after three to four months.

Dr Haldar said: "Of the 20 contacts recruited to the study, one had a subtly abnormal chest radiograph that was picked up retrospectively. Using existing clinical tools and criteria, we can conclude that only this person may have been identified at routine contact screening to have-;or be at higher risk of developing-;tuberculosis.

"But using PET-CT we identified four people in whom the TB bacteria could be isolated from either the lung airway or PET-positive lymph nodes and two further people that had progressive changes after the second PET-CT scan. All six individuals were given TB treatment and in all of them, a further PET-CT scan 3 months after completing treatment showed resolving or completely resolved changes, further supporting our view that the PET-CT changes were caused by metabolically active tuberculosis infection."

"We were also encouraged by the result of the Actiphage test," added Dr Haldar

"We found a statistically significant association between a positive baseline Actiphage test and later being given treatment for high risk features of TB infection. Overall, Actiphage results were positive in 12 (60%) participants at baseline and positive in all six of the treated PET-CT- positive participants.

"Our results are exciting for two reasons. Firstly, they show that PET-CT could be an effective tool for identifying people with higher risk TB infection. This can help us to perform studies to develop new tests and evaluate new treatments, including vaccines more efficiently and at lower cost.

"Secondly, our findings suggest that TB bacteria are found in blood more often than has previously been thought and importantly, the presence of the bacteria in blood may be an indicator of uncontrolled or progressive TB infection.

"Based on our findings we propose that blood biomarkers aimed at detecting the bacteria, can complement existing biomarkers of the host immune response to enable better stratification of TB risk in those that have TB infection."

For the full paper, please visit: PET-CT-guided characterisation of progressive, preclinical tuberculosis infection and its association with low-level circulating Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in household contacts in Leicester, UK: a prospective cohort study - The Lancet Microbe

The NIHR Leicester BRC is part of the NIHR and hosted by the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust in partnership with the University of Leicester, Loughborough University and the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire NHS Group.
The Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, has lately expanded its repository of ancient Sanatan wisdom by launching a Ramayana-focused website. This launch came just before the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration today, January 22. Shlokas and translations of the Valmiki Ramayana are available to users via the website valmiki.iitk.ac.in. Most notably, if users choose to become editors, the platform lets them actively contribute by amending content.

Those interested in purchasing a hard copy of the Ramayana publication up to Sundarakanda can do so at the Rashtriya Sanskrita Vidyapeetham in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, for an affordable price.

The official website issues an announcement, encouraging users to become editors, and states, Users can now edit content. If you wish to be an editor, please submit your credentials. Users of this portal can peruse shlokas and translations that are divided into Sarga Wise and Shloka Wise categories.

Follow these easy steps to get shlokas and translations on the IIT Kanpur Ramayana website:

Step 1: Go to IIT Kanpurs official Ramayana website at valmiki.iitk.ac.in

Step 2: Select View Shlokas and Translations (Sarga Wise or Shloka Wise) by scrolling down the homepage or by clicking on the links given.

Step 3: You will be routed to another webpage.

Step 4: Choose the script, language, and other preferences.

Step 5: The information will be shown on the screen.

Step 6: Download all of the necessary information.

IIT Kanpur is also home to the Gita Supersite, a valuable online archive of Indian philosophical literature with a focus on Srimad Bhagwat Gita, in addition to the Ramayana website. This resource is consistent with new research indicating that reciting Sanskrit shlokas, or mantras, is directly linked to enhanced memory and increased brain activity.

The Bhagavad Gita is available in English audio translations on the IIT Kanpur Gita Supersite, which also features Sanskrit chanting by Swami Brahmnanda. Assamese, Bengali, Devnagari, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Oriya, Punjabi, Roman, Tamil, and Telugu are among the 11 language scripts in which the texts on the Gita Supersite website are available for viewing.

The aforementioned resources serve to reinforce the institutes dedication to conserving and distributing age-old Indian knowledge in a contemporary and comprehensible manner.
Beginning with the academic year 202425, students in Classes 10 and 12 of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will have the opportunity to take the board exams twice a year due to the implementation of bi-annual board exams. Unlike traditional systems, participation in both exams offered under the bi-annual board exam format is not mandatory for students.

The fresh approach gives students flexibility and control over their exam schedule, which is intended to reduce their anxiety about missing any one opportunity. According to CBSE authorities who spoke with the Times of India, candidates who feel sufficiently prepared and happy with their exam results from one session may decide not to take the next one.

The rationale behind this approach is to provide students in classes 10 and 12 with extra time and chances to excel academically. Furthermore, this method promotes a positive learning atmosphere by giving students the choice to retain their best scores.

This kind of provision was previously provided by CBSE on a temporary basis during the COVID-19 pandemic year.

The implementation of the bi-annual board exam format will begin with the academic year 20242025, as stated by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in an interview with the Times of India (TOI). He clarified that the method would apply to the Class 10 and 12 board exams in 2025, affecting the current Class 9 and 11 batches of students.

While CBSE is rolling out these revolutionary changes for the 202425 academic year, on the other hand, the Class 10 and 12 board exams for the 20232024 batch are scheduled to start on February 15. Students are looking forward to receiving their exam admit cards shortly.

ALSO READ | CBSE Opens Portal for Students With Special Needs to Avail Facilities in Board Exams 2024

Moreover, the number of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in the forthcoming CBSE board exams is going to increase. One of the most recent changes is that the CBSE Class 12 board exams for 2024 will have roughly 20 per cent of questions based on multiple-choice questions. The distribution of questions will be such that 40 per cent of questions will be competency-based, encompassing MCQs, source-based, and case-study-based questions, while the remaining 40 per cent of questions will consist of short and long answer-type questions.

A sizeable 38.82 lakh applicants took part in the Central Board of Secondary Educations Class 10 and Class 12 board exams in the year 2023. Out of this number, 21.86 lakh students were in Class 10 while 16.96 lakh candidates took the Class 12 exams, demonstrating the countrywide scope of the CBSE board examinations.
The Ram Lalla idol was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after Pran Pratishtha rituals in Ayodhya. The event was watched by lakhs of people on television at their homes and in temples across the country as Army helicopters showered flower petals on the newly constructed Janmabhoomi temple as the consecration took place.

More than 10,000 people took part in the pran pratistha ceremony including celebrities, Bollywood superstars and business tycoons.

The temple trust, who organised the event, invited several Opposition leaders, but they have decided to stay away from the grand event. The opposition parties cannot go to the event as they claimed that the ruling government has turned the religious event into a political one ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Heres a look at what the opposition leaders doing today while the prime ministers unveil the Ram Lalla idols in Ayodhya:

Rahul Gandhi in Assam

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is in Assam for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, was scheduled to visit Batadrava Than, the birthplace of 15th century social reformer Srimanta Sankardev. However, he was stopped at Haibargaon en route to the Sankardevas birthplace where he along with senior Congress leaders and supporters staged a dharna.

During a law-and-order crisis, everyone can go to the birthplace of Vaishnav saint Srimanta Sankardeva, only Rahul Gandhi cannot go, the Congress leader said in Nagaon. The managing committee of the Sri Sankardeva Sattra had announced that they will not allow the Congress leader to visit the sattra before 3pm on January 22 after CM Himanta Biswa Sarma earlier said that he requested Gandhi not to visit before the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the authorities had told Gandhi that there could be a law and order problem and when he (Gandhi) offered to go alone, the request was turned down. It is clear that it is their deliberate policy to prevent him from going to the holy place which occupies a place of social, cultural and religious importance for all, Ramesh said.

Mamata Banerjees All-Faith Rally

On the day of consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is holding a parallel rally in Kolkata, calling for religious harmony.

Banerjee will first visit the revered Kalighat temple to offer prayers and then hold the all-faith rally. Meanwhile, the BJP has accused her of trying to create distraction from the Ayodhya event and had even approached the high court to halt the march, but failed.

AAP to Take Out Shobha Yatras

Shobha yatras to bhandaras, Sundar Kand recitals to aartis, the AAP has planned a series of events across the the 70 assembly constituencies of Delhi to mark the consecration ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya on Monday.

All party ministers, MLAs, councillors, leaders, and workers will participate in bhandaras (community kitchens), prasad distribution, and shobha yatras organised to celebrate Lord Rams welcome on January 22 across all 70 constituencies of Delhi, AAP senior leader and MLA Dilip Pandey said.

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday attended the three-day Ramlila event being organised by the Delhi governments Art, Culture and Languages department. The conclusion of the event, which began on Saturday, will coincide with Mondays consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged all ministers, party MLAs, councillors, leaders, and workers to participate wherever a shobha yatra is taking place, contribute to the bhandaras and serve the people on this glorious occasion.

DMK vs BJP In Tamil Nadu

While the DMK led government has maintained that it does not agree with the building of a temple after demolishing a mosque in Ayodhya, the BJP has alleged that the LED screens installed at Kamakshi Amman Temple to watch the LIVE streaming of the temple inauguration were brought down.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was scheduled to watch the LIVE telecast of the Ram Mandir from Kamakshi Amman Temple. But the Tamil Nadu government refused permission to install LED screens to watch the LIVE telecast of Pran Pratishtha of Ayodhya Ram Temple.

The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Tamil Nadu government and others on Monday on a plea filed against the states oral order allegedly banning the live telecast of the Pran Prathishta in temples across Tamil Nadu.

Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena (UBT) president and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray will visit the Kalaram temple in Nashik on the day of the consecration. Thackeray was earlier sent an invitation by speed post for the Ram temple consecration ceremony to be held in Ayodhya on Monday.

He will offer prayers at the Kalaram temple 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.

Earlier on January 12, PM Narendra Modi had visited the temple located in the Panchavati area in Maharashtra, which finds mention in the Ramayana.
Vadym Ivchenko, member of The Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence of Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine

On December 29, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the composition of the supervisory board of the joint-stock company "Ukrainian Defense Industry" ("Ukroboronprom)," which was formed by Minister Kamishin without discussion and coordination with the relevant committees in the Verkhovna Rada. The newly created body includes the Prime Minister of Ukraine from 20192020, Oleksiy Honcharuk, the President of the Kyiv School of Economics and former Minister of Economy Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former member of the Supervisory Board of Ukreximbank and the management of Naftogaz Ukraine Serhiy Konevets, member of the Supervisory Board of Ukrzaliznytsia David Lomdzharia, and the President and CEO of the Arizona Defense Industry Coalition Lindy Smith. While the representation of the US defense industry in the Supervisory Board deserves applause, the professional qualifications and independence of the other members raise certain doubts despite their limited and not without critical remarks selection.

According to the press release of "Ukroboronprom," the priority of the concern is the development of new competencies through the transfer of technologies from leading Western companies. But how can this be achieved when people far from the military-industrial complex (MIC) system hold high positions in the Supervisory Board?

The reform of the Ukrainian state defense industry has been declared a priority of state policy, at least since the Victory of the Revolution of Dignity. Still, it has ended only with changes in names, publication of refined press releases, reshuffling of seats in top offices, and questionable expenses from the state budget. All this has not contributed to developing our technologies, and the world's key defense corporations were unwilling to create joint ventures, invest, or cooperate with the state conglomerate "Ukroboronprom." Western top defense corporations demanded transparency, accountability, and protection of intellectual property, which the management structure of "Ukroboronprom," affected by corruption, infiltration of Russian agents, and overall inefficiency, could not provide.

Today, American military corporations plan to expand their business in escalating world security situations. They are looking at the Ukrainian realities in the desire to start cooperation with our defense industry enterprises. The parties have even started signing memorandums of intent to supply and produce weapons. The only question is where these new facilities will be located.

Constructing several arms production or repair facilities by one concern is an investment of millions of dollars. The total potential investment volume reaches 4 billion dollars. There is competition in the world for the placement of defense industry facilities. We should offer more favorable conditions for foreign corporations and appoint people who are understandable to them in the Supervisory Board of the defense concern. The last point is crucial, as weapon production is a particular and closed business. Outsiders who need help understanding all the nuances could be more well-received. Often, attempts to expand the circle of potential strategic investors in the Ukrainian defense industry are hindered by a need for more transparency, understanding, and trust in the development strategies of the industries. And the general business conditions in neighboring countries (which, although our allies in the war, remain economic competitors) are more favorable. I am not talking about the complex general security situation.

And if the last factor to Victory in the war is difficult to remove, then the first three are the direct responsibility of the Kamishin team, and their work should give confidence to foreign partners. For this, it is not enough to issue press releases and make changes "for decoration" - foreign partners have seen this several times and no longer believe in special effects. Fundamental steps that will be understandable to global defense corporations are needed.

I will note two facts that vividly illustrate our realities: over two years of war, the leadership of the "Ukroboronprom" could not take essential steps towards relocating military enterprises. On December 29, the enemy struck the military enterprises "Luch" and "Artem," and on January 2, they targeted the plants "Quasar" and "Mayak." People who worked in the workshops lost their lives. The locations of these enterprises are known to everyone, as they are still in the same place as they were during Soviet times. These are not the only enterprises destroyed by enemy shelling - the locations of bureaus developing drones and firearms manufacturing facilities are even available on the internet!

Ammunition production. Ukrainian enterprises can produce most components at a maximum low cost. 80% of the production cost is the availability of various types of gunpowder. However, due to high demand, it is tough to find these components, which are expensive to purchase. If, at the beginning of the war, we had focused on building facilities for our production instead of spending vast amounts of money on buying ammunition from around the world, we would have already had a complete production cycle for artillery and mortar shells. I believe this is a personal responsibility of the Minister of Strategic Industries and the supervisory board of "Ukroboronprom."

I will give an example of how it should work: in the USA, in 2022, all ammunition manufacturers received five-year contracts from the Pentagon. This scheme allows the manufacturer to develop a financial plan, estimate expenses, attract investments, take out loans, build capacity, and purchase new equipment. On the other hand, our manufacturers work exclusively on one-time, short-term contracts, so it is not beneficial for them to invest in equipment and construction.

It is also hard to imagine that foreign partners will be willing to invest, provide technology, lobby, and defend the interests of an institution whose activities depend on the mood and will of one (even a good) Ukrainian minister.

The conclusion from the above is that the Supervisory Board, single-handedly formed by Minister Kamishyn, will not contribute to developing the Ukrainian defense industry. Ukraine will only lose potential arms production enterprises on its territory, potential investments, partners, lobbyists, and supporters. And in the conditions of war with Russia, lost time is measured by the lack of weapons for the front and the lost lives of Ukrainians.
All central government offices, central institutions and central industrial establishments across the country shall remain closed for half a day till 02:30 PM on January 22 to facilitate the participation of employees in Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla at Ram Temple in Uttar Pradeshs Pradesh Ayodhya.

Responding to overwhelming sentiment and demands of employees to participate in the celebrations associated with Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Ram Mandir on 22nd January, the Centre has declared half a day closing of Central Government establishments in the country.

As per the notification issued by the Department of Personnel and Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, all Central Government offices, Central Institutions and Central Industrial Establishments across the country shall remain closed for half a day till 02:30 PM.

Various activities have been planned by organizations and groups of people across India and abroad to coincide with the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya.

National broadcaster Doordarshan has made elaborate arrangements for live telecast of the entire event, which will also be shown live on several private TV channels. Arrangements have also been made for screening of the Ayodhya ceremony live on large screens at public places in India and abroad.

As the country gears up to welcome Lord Ram at Ayodhyas Ram Mandir on January 22, the Pran Pratistha ceremony rituals started off with the Prayaschita and Karmakuti Poojan on Tuesday.

The office in-charge of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Prakash Gupta, said that the consecration of Lord Ram is scheduled to take place on January 22 between 12:15 pm to 12:45 pm.

The ceremony will be conducted at the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple, where the idol depicting the 5-year-old child form of Lord Ram will be housed.

For January 21 and 22, over 100 VIPs are expected to land in Ayodhya on nearly 50 special flights ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi arriving at 11am.
Addressing a gathering after the consecration of Ram Lalla in the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Lord Ram will no longer live in a tent but will now reside in a magnificent temple.

It is Rams supreme blessings that we are witnessing it, Modi told the select gathering comprising top saints, political leaders, industrialists, film stars, poets, litterateurs and sportspersons.

Here are the top quotes from Prime Ministers speech:

This is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram. Ram is the faith of India, Ram is the foundation of India. Ram is the idea of India, Ram is the law of IndiaRam is the prestige of India, Ram is the glory of IndiaRam is the leader and Ram is the policy. Ram is eternalWhen Ram is honoured, its effect does not last for years or centuries, its effect is for thousands of years, PM Modi said. I got the opportunity to travel from Sagar to Saryu. From Sagar to Saryu, the same festive spirit of Rams name is visible everywhere. I have firm belief and immense faith that today, the devotees of Prabhu Ram are completely absorbed in this historic moment the devotees of Prabhu Ram, in every corner of the country and the world, are deeply feeling thisThis moment is divine, this moment is the holiest of all, Modi said. Speaking on Lord Rams exile, PM Modi said, In that period, the separation lasted only for 14 yearsIn this era, Ayodhya and the countrymen have endured hundreds of years of separation. Many of our generations have suffered this separation. The prime minister also thanked the judiciary for the 2019 Ayodhya verdict saying, The legal battle over the existence of Lord Ram went on for decades. I would like to express my gratitude to the judiciary of India for doing justice. Even after the Constitution came into existence, legal battle was fought for decades on Lord Rams existence. I would like to the thank judiciary that delivered justice and Lord Rams temple was built in a legal manner, the prime minister said. January 22, 2024 is not merely a date but marks the advent of a new era, PM Modi declared. Today, I also apologise to Lord Shri Ram. There must be something lacking in our effort, sacrifice and penance that we could not do this work for so many centuries. Today the work has been completed. I believe that Lord Shri Ram will definitely forgive us today, Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said,  I apologise if we lacked anywhere, but today we have completed everything I have this faith that today Lord Ram will forgive us.https://t.co/HnnuWDm9zI#PranPrathistha #AyodhyaRamMandir #RamMandir pic.twitter.com/BnYegFGMKd News18 (@CNNnews18) January 22, 2024

Earlier today, PM Modi performed a series of rituals at the temple, with the pran pratishtha taking place during the 84-second Abhijeet muhurta. At the end of the rituals, the PM prostrated himself before the idol, which depicts the child Ram.

The ceremony took place in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.
Police personnel were deployed outside the Jamia Millia Islamia on Monday as a precaution after a video of two to three students raising slogans such as Strike for Babri surfaced online, officials said.

The deployment came on the day of the consecration of the new idol of Ram Lalla at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The temple has been built at the site where the 16th Century Babri Masjid once stood, before being demolished by a frenzied mob of karsevaks in 1992.

The deployment of police personnel outside (the university) is a precautionary measure, a police official said and added that it was done in view of the Ram temple consecration ceremony and upcoming Republic Day. The official said apparently, a protest was organised inside the campus. Nothing happened outside, the official said.

The Jamia Millia Islamia administration said academic activity was not disrupted because of the protest. The situation is under control, it said. It was just two to three students who engaged in sloganeering. Classes and examination continued without any disruption, an official of the university told PTI.

To a question, if two persons had been detained, the police official said no one had been detained.
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At least 13 people have been arrested for an alleged assault on a group of persons taking out a vehicle rally in the Mira Bhayander area adjoining Mumbai on the eve of the Ram Temple idol consecration in Ayodhya, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday.

The Deputy CM asserted there would be zero tolerance against anyone who tried to disturb the law and order situation in the state.

Police were instructed to take strictest action against the culprits. 13 have been arrested so far & detailed analysis of CCTV footage is underway to identify & arrest others involved too. There will be zero tolerance against anyone who tries to take the law in their own hands and attempts to disturb the law & order situation in Maharashtra, Fadnavis said in a post on X.

About the incident occurred last night at Mira Road :I took detailed info on what happened in NayaNagar in Mira Bhayender last night itself.Also was constantly in touch with Mira Bhayender CP till 3.30 am.Police were instructed to take strictest action against the culprits. Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) January 22, 2024

The clash between members of two communities took place during a vehicle rally in the Naya Nagar area at around 10:30 pm on Sunday in which several people in three cars and as many motorcycles were shouting slogans praising Lord Ram.

However, when some of them burst firecrackers, a group of people came out of their houses and thrashed those taking part in the rally with sticks and also attacked their vehicles, a police official said.

The police intervened quickly and the attackers were dispersed. The area saw heavy police deployment to maintain law and order and to prevent any further flare-ups. A company of the Riot Control Police (RCP) is also at the site, the official said.

An FIR was registered at Naya Nagar police against the attackers under Indian Penal Code section 307 (attempt to murder) and other offences, he added.

A video of the incident has also gone viral on social media.

Meanwhile, MLA Pratap Sarnaik of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena met Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar (MBVV) police commissioner Madhukar Pandey on Monday and sought the setting up of a special investigation team (SIT).

Sarnaik said the Shiv Sena would hold a protest on January 25 if those involved in the attack on the processionists are not arrested immediately.

Stone Pelting on Procession in Thane Hours After Group Clash

A procession taken out in Thane district on the occasion of the Ram temple idol consecration in Ayodhya was pelted with stones by miscreants on Monday evening, police officials said, in the second incident of violence in the district in less than 24 hours.

An unspecified number of processionists and policemen providing security to the march were injured in the stone attack in the Mira Road area, they said.

An official at the Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) police said the stone pelting was reported from Naya Nagar police station limits, where the group clash took place during a rally comprising cars and other vehicles and taken out on the eve of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya.

The trigger for the stone pelting incident was not yet known, he said, adding further details were awaited.

The police were maintaining a strict vigil after Sundays clash in the Naya Nagar area, located on Mumbais outskirts, said the official.
After the pran pratishtha (consecration) rituals at the grand Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a subtle dig at those who opposed the temple and created roadblocks over decades, when he said Lord Ram is not fire but energy.

The event at the temple, the heart of a decades-long political ferment, was avoided by most opposition parties like the Congress, Samajwadi Party, Left, and Trinamool Congress after they accused the BJP of using it for electioneering ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Ram is not fire but energy. Ram is not a dispute but the solution. Ram doesnt belong to us alone but belongs to everyone, said the Prime Minister while addressing the visitors as well as the nation.

He also got back at detractors for fearmongering that building a Ram temple on the previously disputed site would trigger violence.

Those were the days when some people used to say that if the Ram temple is built, it would trigger violence. Such people failed to understand the sacredness of Indias social sentiments. The construction of this temple for Ram Lalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony, and unity in Indian society. We are witnessing that this construction is not causing any violence but rather giving birth to positive energy, said PM Modi, who participated in the pran pratishtha ceremony as the chief yajman.

Speaking to the nation, he repeatedly underscored the delay in realising this day that came after decades-long mass movements and legal tangles. While he did not blame anyone in particular, the PM offered an apology to the deity on behalf of all his devotees. Ram Lalla, he also said, will no longer live in a tent.

In his address, he transcended the grand temple to the realm of spirituality. The Prime Minister said that its not just a deitys temple but the temple of Indias perspective, vision, and foresight. Its a temple of national consciousness in the form of Lord Ram, he said.

Emphasising on the Ram is for everyone mantra, the off-white silk attire-clad Prime Minister said, Ram is pervasive, universal, the soul of the universe.

But despite the overwhelming fervour across the nation on Monday, the PM was cautious enough to suggest the importance of being modest. Aiming for the next thousand years, Modi said, Its not a moment of victory alone for us but of modesty as well.

So whats next? The sense the PM wanted to communicate was simple: the struggle is behind and its time for jubilation while being grounded. And in doing so, he said, India should aspire for a new era of the next thousand years of greatness. Though he didnt use the terms, he seemed to be aiming for the Amrit Kaal leading to a Ram Rajya where Ram is a unifying factor rather than being divisive, as being fearmongered by a few.

Ram sirf hamare nahi, Ram to sab ke hain (Ram isnt just ours, he is everyones), was the PMs message from Ayodhya.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday performed the pran pratishtha of Ram Lalla at the Ayodhya temple, in an event watched by lakhs of people on television at their homes and in temples across the country.

ALSO READ | Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE UPDATES REACTIONS

Our Ram has come, Modi said in his address that followed the consecration. It is expected to open to the public on Tuesday.

During my 11-day Anushthaan I tried to visit all those places that were touched by Lord Rams divine feet. Lord Ram is connected to the soul of India: PM ModiWatch his speech #LIVE | #RamMandirPranPratishtha #AyodhyaRamMandir pic.twitter.com/QfWJTaoU5p  News18 (@CNNnews18) January 22, 2024

A look at the 16 key themes in PM Modis address:
A procession taken out in Thane district on the occasion of the Ram temple idol consecration in Ayodhya was pelted with stones by miscreants on Monday evening, police officials said, in the second incident of violence in the district in less than 24 hours.

An unspecified number of processionists and policemen providing security to the march were injured in the stone attack in the Mira Road area, they said, hours after a clash broke out between members of two communities during a vehicle rally in Thane district at around 10:30 pm on Sunday.

An official at the Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar (MBVV) police said the stone pelting was reported from Naya Nagar police station limits, where the group clash took place during a rally comprising cars and other vehicles and taken out on the eve of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya.

The trigger for the stone pelting incident was not yet known, he said, adding further details were awaited.

The police were maintaining a strict vigil after the Sundays clash in the in Naya Nagar area, located on Mumbais outskirts, said the official.

MBVV additional police commissioner Sreekanth Phatak asked people of the township to maintain peace and said action was being taken against those involved in the incidents.

He asked people not believe in rumours and warned against putting up social media posts that are provocative or could disrupt peace by creating feuds among communities.

CCTV footage was being checked to nab the culprits, he said, adding that police rushed to site of Sundays clash immediately and brought the situation under control.

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio, said 13 persons were held in connection with the group clash.

A number of relatives of these 13 persons protested in front of Naya Nagar police station and Congress leader Muzaffar Hussain was seen soothing frayed tempers.

He told the kin of the arrested persons that police was doing its job and action would be taken only against those found to have taken part in the clash.

In Panvel, Shiv Sena leader Pratamesh Soman, former corporator Mukid Kazi and social worker Iqbal Kazi told reporters some incidents had taken place but the situation was peaceful at the moment.

Hindus and Muslims have lived in the town cordially for ages, they said, adding that police must take action against those posting rumours and provocative messages on social media.
A man from Andhra Pradeshs NTR district has defied societal expectations and embraced love by marrying a transgender woman, whom he had met and fallen in love with three years ago.

The man, Nandu, a native of Vissannapet, and the transgender woman Nakshatra, a resident of Enkur crossed paths through Instagram. Despite several rejections from family and community, Nandu married Nakshatra with the help of transgender association of the state.

In the presence of the association representatives, Nandu and Nakshatra tied knots in a traditional way at Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Garlavoddu of Enkur Mandal on Sunday.

We both personally met and took decision on marriage but my family members rejected our marriage proposal. I met the members of the transgender association and the marriage happened without any hurdles, Nandu said.

The members of transgender association from various districts attended the event and blessed the couple wholeheartedly.

Speaking with News18 , the transgender woman said that she came to Enkur in 2015 and could not find a rented house, adding that people boycotted her and even filed a complaint against her at a local police station.

I suffered with social boycott. I requested with folded hands with the police and community people and finally I got a rented house. She said that the sub-inspector assured the community members that my conduct in the society will be good.

The sub inspector at the police station assured the local people that I will be sent out from the town if my conduct is not good.

She said that her conduct and nature helped her to quickly settle in the society, adding that the residents of the colony who complained against me, since then are treating me as goddess.

Sharing about her love life, Nakshatra said that she too has suffered a heart break, but now she trust Nandu. He (Nandu) equally distribute money between his parents and me, she said, adding that they will adopt a child in future and will make their home in the colony itself.
The vehicular traffic is likely to be affected in central Delhi on Tuesday during a full dress rehearsal for the Republic Day parade. Delhi traffic police have urged the citizens to plan their journey prior.

ROUTE OF REPUBLIC DAY REHEARSAL

The full dress rehearsal will have the same route as that of the parade on Republic Day on Friday. The rehearsal will start at 10.30 am from Vijay Chowk and pass via Kartavya Path, C-Hexagon, the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose statue roundabout, Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, and Netaji Subhas Marg before culminating at the Red Fort.

Traffic AdvisoryIn view of Full Dress #RepublicDay Parade Rehearsal on 23rd January, 2024, special traffic arrangements will be effective on various routes. Please follow the advisory.#DPTrafficAdvisory pic.twitter.com/cnFYiCMZnA  Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) January 22, 2024

TRAFFIC ADVISORY

No traffic movement will be allowed on Kartavya Path from Vijay Chowk to India Gate from 6 pm on Monday till the end of the rehearsal on Tuesday.

There will be no cross-traffic on Kartavya Path at Rafi Marg, Janpath, and Man Singh Road from 11 pm on Monday till the end of the parade.

C-Hexagon-India Gate will be closed to traffic from 9.15 am on Tuesday till the parade crosses Tilak Marg, the advisory stated.

However, traffic in both directions will not be allowed on Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, and Netaji Subhas Marg from 10.30 am on Tuesday.

Cross-traffic will only be allowed depending on the movement of the parade, it stated.

Commuters are requested to plan their journeys and avoid the parade route from 9.30 am to 1 pm, according to the Delhi police advisory.

The advisory has requested motorists to observe traffic rules and follow directions of personnel deployed at intersections.

METRO SERVICES

Metro services will remain available from all stations during the dress rehearsal.

Boarding and de-boarding from the Central Secretariat and the Udyog Bhawan stations will not be permitted from 5 am till 12 pm.

Though no restrictions have been imposed on traffic movement from north Delhi to New Delhi railway station or Old Delhi railway station yet, the advisory has asked people to plan their journeys to avoid possible delays.

MOVEMENT OF BUSES

The movement of city buses will be curtailed at Park Street, Udyan Marg, Aram Bagh Road (Paharganj), the Kamla Market roundabout, Delhi Secretariat (IG Stadium), Pragati Maidan (Bhairon Road), Hanuman Mandir (Yamuna Bazar), Mori Gate, ISBT-Kashmere Gate, ISBT-Sarai Kale Khan and Tis Hazari Court.

Buses from Ghaziabad bound for Shivaji Stadium will take National Highway-24, Ring Road, and terminate at Bhairon Road.

Those coming from National Highway-24 will take the right turn on Road No 56 and terminate at ISBT-Anand Vihar, the advisory said.

Buses to Wazirabad Bridge from Ghaziabad will be diverted at Mohan Nagar towards Bhopra Chungi.

No heavy transport or light goods vehicles will be allowed to cross the borders into Delhi from 11 pm on Monday till the parade is over.

These vehicles will only be allowed to ply between ISBT-Sarai Kale Khan and ISBT-Kashmiri Gate on Ring Road from 7.30 am to 1.30 pm on Tuesday, it stated.

REGULATIONS FOR AERIAL PLATFORMS

Flying sub-conventional aerial platforms such as paragliders, paramotors, hang gliders, unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned aircraft systems, microlight aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, hot air balloons, small-size powered aircraft, quadcopters, or para jumping from aircraft are prohibited over the National Capital Territory of Delhi till February 15.

(with PTI inputs)
Ukraine's trade with the European Union has already more or less stabilized after the regulation adopted by Brussels in May 2022 on the suspension for a year of all customs duties, quotas and trade protection measures in relation to Ukrainian exports. Kyiv is expecting another extension of this regulation and is ready for detailed discussions with EU countries about the trade flows that have developed during this time, Deputy Minister of Economy - Trade Representative of Ukraine Taras Kachka has said.

"Roughly speaking, we have revealed our potential, which [individual EU countries] are afraid of, so there is no further reason to say that we will make another leap [in increasing exports] as in 2022 as a whole and in 2023, partially for some goods. Trade has already been more or less stabilized, and this allows us to say that, look, we are somewhere at some harmonious level," Kachka told Interfax-Ukraine on the sidelines of the Ukrainian Breakfast, organized by the Victor Pinchuk Foundation in Davos.

He clarified that in 2024 there is no reason to think that Ukrainian exports of agricultural products to the EU will grow - on the contrary, they will even fall somewhere with possible isolated exceptions.

The Trade Representative of Ukraine reminded the existing agreement that the European Union would extend for another year the validity of the above-mentioned autonomous trade measures, providing for the non-application of all duties of any kind, tariff restrictions, and so on for another 12 months.

As Kachka noted, in Kyiv they also heard the public position of European Agrarian Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski, who proposes that the regulations for liberalizing trade with Ukraine for the next year not only retain protective provisions, but also introduce quantitative restrictions on the import of poultry meat and sugar from Ukraine.

"It must be heard, but we are confident that the [European] Commission will approve this decision," the trade representative of Ukraine said.

According to him, Kyiv is ready for debates with neighboring EU countries that speak about the risks of agricultural exports from Ukraine.

According to Kachka, the opinions expressed by farmers and agriculture ministers are more of the opinion that the European Commission should study in detail all of Ukraine's merchandise exports in order to clearly understand whether they are harmful or not.

"We are for such attention, because the more carefully you look at trade flows, the more you understand that there is no harm as such, that this is a change in trade - it is for the benefit of the European Union market," Kachka emphasized, noting the readiness for such a dialogue.

He added that Kyiv is ready for such a dialogue both at the level of the European Commission and at the bilateral level. In particular, the Coordination Platform at the level of the governments of Ukraine and Poland is being restored.

The trade representative noted that maintaining the trade liberalization regime with the EU is necessary for Ukraine to show potential investors that the European market is open for Ukraine, because the country is joining the European Union, and this is a medium and long-term perspective.

He emphasized that the task for 2024, in addition to the extension of trade liberalization itself, is also the analysis and analysis of trade with partners from the European Union and its member countries.

"And the ideal situation is to sort it out in such a way as to agree on liberalization before the EU joins," Kachka concluded.
In view of the Republic Day celebrations in the national capital on Friday, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has released a forecast predicting a partly cloudy sky and shallow fog in the morning.

The maximum temperature will remain between 18-20 degrees Celsius while the minimum temperature will be between 8-10 degrees Celsius.

Not many people are aware that when the Constitution of India was signed by 284 Constituent Assembly members on January 24, 1950, it was drizzling outside. The showers were interpreted as a sign of a good omen.

India witnessed precipitation during Republic Day in 2015, 2017, and 2019.

This years Republic Day will largely be women-centric with the central theme of Indias democracy and its resolve to become a developed nation.

In a first, the parade will be heralded by 100 women artists with Indian musical instruments, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane said on Friday to the news agency, PTI.

The parade will also witness an all-women tri-services contingent marching down the ceremonial boulevard for the first time, and the central armed police forces contingents will also consist of women personnel, he said. The best representation of women will be seen in this years Republic Day parade, the defence secretary said.

Another special feature of the 75th Republic Day is that the 95-member marching team and 33-member band contingent from France will also take part in the parade.

Along with the aircraft of the Indian Air Force, one Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and two Rafale fighter jets of the French Air Force will participate in the fly-past, Aramane said.

French President Emmanuel Macron will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. With the themes of Viksit Bharat and Bharat  Loktantra ki Matruka, the 75th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on January 26 will be women-centric, he said.

In another unique initiative, the Ministry of Culture will be showcasing the Anant Sutra  The Endless Thread textile installation at Kartavya Path. It will be installed behind the spectators seated in the enclosures. Anant Sutra is a visually stunning tribute to the saree, Indias timeless gift to the world of fashion.

Around 13,000 special guests have also been invited to witness the parade this year. The defense secretary said the objective is to provide an opportunity for people from all walks of life to take part in the national festival, in line with the governments vision of Jan Bhagidari.

The defence secretary said the Beating Retreat ceremony at Vijay Chowk on January 29 will witness all Indian tunes to mark the culmination of 75th Republic Day celebrations. The tunes will be played by bands of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and central armed police forces before a distinguished audience, he said.

(with PTI inputs)
Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal landed in Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony. The couples were joined by Rohit Shetty, Madhuri Dixit, her husband Dr Shriram Nene and Ayushmann Khurrana at the ceremony. In a photo shared by ANI, the Bollywood stars travelled from Mumbai to Ayodhya together. They were seen posing together outside their aircraft.

For More : Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Get Grand Welcome in Ayodhya; Video Goes Viral

Amitabh Bachchan shared a sweet memory from his younger days in the industry on his recent blog post. The superstar, who has been in the industry for over 50 years, took to his blog and shared a vintage photo featuring Rekha, Raj Kapoor, Vinod Khanna, music director Kalyan, Randhir Kapoor, Mehmood, and Shammi Kapoor. The photo was taken from an event in the 70s. And Amitabh teased that there is a big story behind the star-studded photo.

For More: Amitabh Bachchan Shares Photo with Rekha, Raj Kapoor, Mehmood; Says There Is a Huge Story

Earlier this morning, Saif Ali Khan was hospitalized for undergoing surgery. The actor was admitted to Mumbais Kokilaben Hospital. Now the actor opened up about his injury and also thanked fans for their well wishes and concerns. Saif Ali Khan recently underwent tricep surgery for an old injury that got triggered while performing an action sequence for his latest movie.

For More: Saif Ali Khan CONFIRMS Undergoing Surgery for Tricep Injury, Says Part of Wear and Tear of

Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone starrer Fighter has been cleared by the Censor Board but with a few changes. Fighter is slated to release on January 25. The Central Board of Film Certification gave the film an U/A (unrestricted but with adult discretion) certificate and asked director Siddharth Anand to make four modifications. This allegedly includes sexually suggested visuals.

For More: Fighter: CBFC Asks Deepika-Hrithik Film to Replace Sexually Suggested Visuals; Gives U/A Certificate

On a momentous occasion for all devotees of Lord Ram, the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the deity will take place at Ayodhyas Ram Mandir on Monday, January 22. As such, renowned personalities from the film industry have reached Ayodhya to witness the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Among them was also megastar Rajinikanth. Thalaiva Rajinikanth had front-row seats to the inauguration ceremony and was seen speaking to officials before the event. He also greeted Mukesh Ambani at the event.

For More: Rajinikanth Greets Mukesh Ambani, Sits In Front Row At Ayodhyas Ram Mandir Inauguration | Video
Amitabh Bachchan shared a sweet memory from his younger days in the industry on his recent blog post. The superstar, who has been in the industry for over 50 years, took to his blog and shared a vintage photo featuring Rekha, Raj Kapoor, Vinod Khanna, music director Kalyan, Randhir Kapoor, Mehmood, and Shammi Kapoor. The photo was taken from an event in the 70s. And Amitabh teased that there is a big story behind the star-studded photo.

In the photo, a tall Amitabh Bachchan was seen holding the mic and interacting with the audience while Vinod Khanna, Kalyan and Raj Kapoor joined him. Randhir Kapoor appeared to be distracted by something while Mehmood tried to give Amitabh his full attention. In the far corner of the stage stood Shammi Kapoor and Rekha. The group appeared to be in the mood of a celebration.

Sharing the photo on his blog on Sunday night, Amitabh wrote, Aaahhh .. there is a huge story behind this photograph .. someday it shall be narrated ..

Amitabh often revisits moments from his younger days in the industry. Recently, he also opened up about his father, poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan and his days with him.

Meanwhile, Amitabh was spotted at the Mumbai airport on Monday morning. The actor headed to Ayodhya to participate in the Ram Mandir inauguration. The superstar was spotted with his son Abhishek Bachchan. For the special puja ceremony, Amitabh opted to wear a white kurta pyjama with a cream colour jacket over it. He was seen carrying warm clothes as well. On the other hand, Abhishek was seen wearing a hoodie.

The duo joined Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal, Madhuri Dixit, and many others for their flight to Ayodhya. Actors such as Kangana Ranaut, Anupam Kher and Rajinikanth have already landed in Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir inauguration.
Bipasha Basu is currently relishing a joyful phase in her life. She is cherishing moments with her husband, Karan Singh Grover, and their adorable daughter, Devi Basu Singh Grover. The actress loves to share glimpses of their vibrant life, particularly the heartwarming moments spent with their little one. As hubby Karan Singh Grover is getting ready to make a comeback on the big screen with Fighter alongside Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor, Bipasha took to social media to share a beautiful photo of Karan with their daughter Devi.

In the photo, Karan can be seen with his daughter Devi on lap. By the looks of it, it was clicked at golden hour. Bipasha captioned the photo, My strength. She added a folded hands emoji and an evil eye emoji.

Not long back, taking to her Instagram Stories, the actress had shared an heartening video featuring the father-daughter duo. In the clip, Karan Singh Grover was seen lying on a bed with his adorable daughter by his side. Engrossed in a storybook, he reads a tale to her and introduces the little one to the names of the animals illustrated on it. Captioning the video, Bipasha had written, Bedtime stories (with a red heart and evil eye emoticon) and tagged Karan in it.

Bipasha Basu and Karan Singh Grover welcomed their baby girl on November 12. Sharing an adorable post featuring a picture of the newborns tiny feet, the couple revealed her name as Devi Basu Singh Grover. The heartfelt caption read, 12.11.22. Devi Basu Singh Grover, The physical manifestation of our love and blessings of Ma is here now and she is Divine.

Bipasha Basu was all praise for Karans look in his film, Fighter. She had earlier shared the poster on social and wished him luck for the film. All the best  she captioned the post and added in the comments , Handsome Hot Hubby.
Chiranjeevi opened up about participating in the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya. The Telugu superstar was spotted at the Hyderbad airport on Monday morning with his son, actor Ram Charan, heading for Ayodhya. Before he boarded his flight, Chiranjeevi spoke with ANI and said that he is overwhelmed by the invite to attend the pran-pratishtha (consecration) ceremony. Being a devotee of Lord Hanuman, Chiranjeevi feels Lord Hanuman personally invited him.

That is really great, overwhelming opportunity. It is a rare opportunity. I feel Lord Hanuman, who is my deity, I think he personally invited me. I am undergoing such a overwhelming feeling and we are so fortunate this consecration, this pran-pratishtha, he said. Watch the video below:

That is really great. Overwhelming. We feel it's a rare opportunity. I feel Lord Hanuman who is my deity, has personally invited meWe are so fortunate to witness this pranpratishta"  @KChiruTweets #AyodhyaRamMandir #JaiShreeRam pic.twitter.com/6vHRUb9bu3 MEGA FAMILY FANS (@MegaStarKTweets) January 22, 2024

Ram also spoke to the publication and said, Its a long wait, we are all very honoured to be there.

#WATCH | Telangana | Actor Ram Charan leaves from Hyderabad for Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh as Ayodhya Ram Temple pranpratishtha ceremony to take place today. He says, "It's a long wait, we are all very honoured to be there." pic.twitter.com/6F4oBZylS8  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Ahead of their travel, Ram Charan got special gifts from fans. Hours ahead of leaving for Ayodhya, Ram Charan met his fans outside his residence in Hyderabad when the RRR star was presented with a specially crafted Lord Hanuman idol. Crafted by the renowned sculptor Amarnath in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, the 3-ft bronze idol symbolizes the spiritual connection between fans and their beloved star.

I want to thank each and every one of you who consistently visit the blood bank every Sunday. Your unwavering commitment to donating blood does not go unnoticed. I am grateful to those who travel from every corner to join us. Recently, we had the honour of attending the Ayodhya Ram Mandir pran pratishta, a truly blessed and proud moment for all of us. On behalf of you all, I will be visiting Ayodhya, praying at the Ram Mandir for the well-being of you and your families. Your blessings mean a lot. Thank you very much, he said.

Ram Charan and Chiranjeevi joined stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, Katrina Kaif, Rajinikanth, Anupam Kher and more.
The long-awaited inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya will take place today. The celebrations have been ongoing over the past few days, and it is a significant day for the country. Many Bollywood celebrities have been invited to the grand ceremony, and they are en route to Ayodhya in some of the best traditional fits. Meanwhile, those who couldnt make it, took to social media to congratulate one and all on the historic occasion.

Deepika, who was conspicuous by her absence at the Ram mandir consecration, shared a photo of a diya on her Instagram stories without a caption. The picture went viral, and many speculated that it could be in honour of the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony in Ayodhya. Ranveer Singh, too, wasnt present at the ceremony.

Besides Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, several other celebrities are also in Ayodhya. Among others, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Ram Charan, and Chiranjeevi are also attending the event. Sonu Nigam also performed at the mega event.

Vindu Dara Singh will also be performing Ramleela at the event. While speaking to the news agency ANI, Vindu Dara Singh recently shared, I have been invited to perform Ramleela in Ayodhya from January 16 to January 22. I am playing the role of Lord Shiva. Ayodhya will become the worlds top pilgrimage site. It is said that Satyayuga is coming even within Kaliyuga, this is happening. This is our Ram ji. Modi ji and Yogi ji are doing so much work and serving the country.

While several photos and videos from the consecration ceremony are going viral on social media, a new photo shows Madhuri Dixits husband Dr Shriram Madhav Nene taking a selfie with some of the celebrity guests at the event.

Meanwhile, as per reports, Deepika has bagged another Hollywood project, the third season of the superhit show White Lotus. Rumours are rife that Deepika will appear in the third season of the popular show White Lotus.
Deepika Padukone is one of the most successful actresses in Bollywood today. Her acting prowess is not only well-known in Bollywood but also in Hollywood, thanks to projects like XXX: Return of Xander Cage with Vin Diesel. Seems like Deepika has bagged another Hollywood project, the third season of the superhit show White Lotus.

Rumours are rife that Deepika will appear in the third season of the popular show White Lotus. Amid this, a screenshot emerged on Reddit, featuring her mother-in-law Anju Bhavnanis X (formerly Twitter) account. The account had liked three posts about Deepikas rumoured appearance on the show. The post quickly went viral on the microblogging site.

One person wrote, Im happy for her if its true!.Another added, My takeaway is how supportive her MIL is. Not everyone is lucky to get such in-laws. One person commented, Could it be true then? She could have a tiny role? Another added, Why is she only acting in tiny roles or cameos? She is such a good actress and I would love to see more of her on-screen acting.

While Deepika and her team are yet to issue an official statement, the actress will soon be seen in Siddharth Anands Fighter, opposite Hrithik Roshan. Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone play Airforce Officers in Siddharth Anands aerial action film. The film promises to bring a power-packed action spectacle that has never been seen before on the big screen. The trailer features Top Gun-style action with Deepika and Hrithik in their aircrafts.

The buzz around the film is high as people are excited to watch Hrithik and Deepikas chemistry unfold on screen for the first time. The film also stars Anil Kapoor, Sanjeeda Sheikh and Karan Singh Grover in key roles. It is scheduled to be released on January 25, 2024.
Actor Vijay Sethupathi has many avatars. But none which even faintly resembles that of a hero  in the sense of the term we those playing leads. Minus the dashing good looks which have become a necessity to be a hero in Indian cinema, he has come a long, long way, and is now one who is known and recognised for his brilliant acting style.

Take Merry Christmas, for instance, which is now playing in theatres. He has, without a shred of doubt, understood the concept of acting in films. We know that a lot of which is churned out of the countrys movie factories is too dramatic, too loud. Understandably so. For, our cinema grew out of our tradition in theatre, unlike in the West where it emerged from photographs. And Sethupathi is one of the few men in the industry who understands this perfectly well.

There are so many scenes in Merry Christmas in which the actor talks with his eyes. Sometimes, he conveys what he wants to with a nod of his head or a half smile which lingers on his lips.

What is more, Sethupathi has essayed vastly different characters, sinking into them to push the plot further ahead. He bloomed late, when he was 32, in Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010). His restrained style of acting and his bold attempt to pick roles that no other Tamil hero would touch with a barge pole made him very popular and very soon.

As a middle-aged kidnapper, Das, in Soodhu Kavvum, he lifted the movie to great heights, and both he and the work attracted laudatory reviews. He became an icon after that. In 2016, although just in his mid-thirties, he stepped into the skin of a lonely old man in Orange Mittai. His poignantly sweet relationship with a par-medic was heartwarming, to say the least.

He became a lover in Naanum Rowdy Thaan, a macho cop in a film which carried his name as the title, Sethupathi. There was no end to the variety and his bold approach to experimenting with it. He cared little about how he looked, and Vikram Vedha in 2017 proved this.. He was excellent as Vedha in a tale that was inspired by the folklore, Vikram and Betal. He was a gangster, an anti-hero garnering more praise than the hero, played by Madhavan. Mind you, in the Hindi version of this work, Hrithik Roshan, was Vedha, with his chiselled body which resembled a Greek god! Finally, Sethupathi stepped into the shoes of a transgender, called Shilpa, in the 2019 Super Deluxe.

It was clear by then that Sethupathi would dare to do any part, not in the least caring about his image. And now as the hero in Merry Christmas along with Katrina Kaif, it has been amply proved that the actor is no longer just a Tamil boy. The movie in Hindi and Tamil is driven by a masterly performance by Sethupathi, and weaves in a very subtle romance between Katrina Kaifs Maria and Vijays Albert. His wry humour and his unorthodox mannerisms said  all too loudly  that here was an actor who has arrived, and is all set to go beyond the shores of Chennai, dextrously crossing the lines of regionalism and language.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the inauguration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya today. The shrine will be open to the public one day after the consecration ceremony. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony began at 12:29 PM. Following the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi spoke to a crowd of more than 7,000, including spiritual leaders and prominent figures at the venue. Several prominent celebrities from the South and Bollywood attended the event. Lets take a look at how Kannada actors celebrated this special day in their own unique ways.

Sandalwood actress Radhika Kumaraswamy recently shared a video on social media, where she lit a lamp at home and danced with devotion to a bhajan dedicated to Lord Rama. In the video, Radhika Kumaraswamy is seen worshiping the idol of Lord Rama by lighting a lamp at her home. She captioned her clip, Jai Shree Ram.

Former actress Amulya, known for her role in Cheluvina Chittara, has transitioned away from acting; but she is active on social media. She recently participated in the #NannaRama Abhiyan initiated by Shri Vijayendra Yeddyurappa, chanting the Shloka of Sri Rama and expressing her devotion. Amulya urged everyone to engage in the campaign, highlighting the significance of the Ram Mandir as a national symbol. She wrote, This is Rashtra Mandir; let us all be part of the life dedication of our beloved God Shri Ramlala by joining the #NannaRama Abhiyan.

Fans of Shivanna posted a Jai Shree ram photo on social media, expressing their devotion. Sandalwood actor Golden Star Ganesh joined in by reciting Ramnama, and his video has been shared on social media. Following this, two more celebrities have been invited to participate in reciting Ramnama.

Ganesh also invited real stars Upendra and Anil Kumble to chant the name of Sri Rama. Actor Ganesh shared the video on social media.

Kantara fame filmmaker Rishabh Shetty visited Ayodhya to witness the grand construction of Lord Ramas temple.

Rishab Shetty and his wife Pragati Shetty shared photos on social media from their visit to Ayodhya. Rishab Shetty mentioned that he had the privilege of having a darshan of Hanuman before the celebration of Sri Ramas birth.
Two major changes happened in Indias socio-political sphere when the Babri structure was demolished on December 6, 1992. Why it is technically incorrect to refer to the razed construction as the Babri Masjid is a settled debate now, no less because the highest court of the country has given its last word on it. Whether the demolition amounted to a defiance of history  admittedly, a dark chapter in history  is not what this article is about. Evidence of temples of Before Christ vintages or citations from the Skanda Purana are no longer required. This is about how we and our polity changed since that day 31 years ago.

Society

Pre-1992, most Muslims would be at pains to establish their roots were not Indian. Some claimed they had descended from Turks; some said they were originally Arabs; some traced their roots back to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan or Kazakhstan. The rest, their obvious Indian looks notwithstanding, were hell bent on proving they were central Asians if not Mughals.

This is not an opinion. Read the biography of the venerated Urdu poet, Mirza Asadullah Khan Baig Ghalib. He demanded pension from the East India Company, citing Seljuq Turk roots, explaining painstakingly to the British how his grandfather Mirza Qoqan Baig arrived in India from Samarkand while Ahmad Shah was ruling. Ghalibs applications to British authorities mention how his grandpa worked in Lahore, Delhi and Jaipur, was awarded the sub-district of Pahasu (in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh) and finally settled in Agra, on the basis of which the poet thought he deserved a pension! Think of it, Ghalib was one of the most inclusive, tolerant, pluralistic Muslims India has ever known, and even such a person was reluctant to identify as an Indian.

That Mughals were originally Uzbeks is documented history. That Sheikhs are Arabs is well-known. That a Muslim who claims to be a Sayyad/Syed/Sayyid must be a descendant of the clan of Prophet Mohammed and cannot, therefore, be of Indian origin is something claimed by Sayyads/Syeds/Sayyids themselves. That Pathans are of the ethnic Pashtun ancestry from the landmass in Pakistan and Afghanistan that are no longer parts of India is a geographical truth.

Who are left then? If an Indian Muslim is neither a Sheikh nor a Syed nor a Mughal nor a Pathan, he must be what they call Pasmanda. This implies his forefathers were Hindu. If leftist sociologists and historians are to be believed, they were from the underprivileged class who converted with the belief Islam would offer them a better deal. Indeed, these days, most of them claim their ancestors were Shudras, including Kashmiri Muslims who couldnt have been Hindu Shudras before conversion because all Kashmiris were originally Pandits (Brahmins)!

Among Hindus, in the debate leading up to the demolition, the arguments were not so much on the history of the disputed plot and the equally contentious structure named after Babar. It was more about how Hindus, the majority, had got a raw deal from the state for the 45 years preceding 1992. The corollary included how Muslims returned the favour to the nation  rather, how they did not. That triggered the community into asserting their Indian identity. But who in the Islamic community made these mutually conflicting claims pre- and post-1992?

Leftists do not buy the Islam spread by the might of the sword theory while Pasmanda Muslims themselves say neither the sword of Islam nor the discrimination in the Hindu fold is exactly what happened. They say it was a convention in mediaeval history that if a ruler converted, his subjects followed suit. So, that is how they became Muslim  their (small-time) kings bowed to the might of the sword and the subjects did what their kings did. But barbers, weavers, cobblers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, fitters, mechanics, peasants etc are not the Muslims who pick up an intellectual fight with you. Its the upper class who once claimed they were Turks, Uzbeks, Afghans etc that dare, post-1992, the country to brand them as not Indian. That is one big change that the discourse which followed the demolition of the Babri structure brought about.

Politics

The polity was divided between pro-Congress and anti-Congress camps, witnessed most clearly in the 1989 election when even the CPI(M) and the BJP supped together with VP Singh to bring down the Rajiv Gandhi government. Once the Babri structure fell, it became for and against the BJP. Barely four years later, Atal Bihari Vajpayee saw how difficult it was to forge an alliance to attain a majority in Parliament, as his first government collapsed in 13 days.

Between then and the Supreme Court verdict, the BJP struggled with its cultural policy. The deposition of LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and Uma Bharti before the court apart, the party could not distance itself from the Ram Janmabhoomi movement that it had adopted from the VHP on the one hand. On the other hand, owning up Ram was a tricky proposition for it in the pre-2014 polling campaign phase. Even after it got past the 272 mark on its own, it was wary of allies for the next election. Caught in the tug of war between desire and exigency, it soft-peddled the issue at best.

The opposition, which had softened its stand from strident anti-Hindutva of the 1990s were mocking in the next two decades: Mandir wahin banaayenge, lekin kab banaayenge, nahin bataayenge! (We will build the temple right there  on the then-disputed plot  but wouldnt tell anybody when were going to do it). Still waiting for the right time to arrive, BJP supporters would feel awkward, unsure what would be a befitting reply.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court said it would treat the Ayodhya dispute as a land title issue. It meant for Hindus that there was no point waiting for the verdict with bated breaths. From the judiciary, the matter would return to the executive (not necessarily the legislature as a law to make a temple in a so-called secular country is untenable). The executive, in turn, would need to devise ingenious ways to ensure that the coveted Ram temple came up on the plot that three sides were fighting over at the Allahabad High Court. An executive run by the BJP alone could make that happen or face another showdown like 6 December 1992.

But that is not what transpired. When the judgement of the apex court arrived, nobody saw it as the settlement of a land title dispute. Hindus saw it as a victory in a religio-cultural war against a community of invaders and marauders who followed a barbaric ideology. The BJP claimed credit immediately. No executive order was required as the highest court of the country had made the requisite order already.

Interestingly, Hindus now were far less agitated about the issue than they were 27 years before the verdict of 2019. In the late 1980s and the first two years of the next decade, it was about undoing a historic and historical wrong. Then came a phase of indifference. What has again changed over the past almost 10 years of Narendra Modi rule is that the community has turned assertive. The Ram temple, when unveiled on 22 January 2024, will be a statement of their assertion.

The process was gradual but steadfast. Vilification gave way to accommodation reluctantly. If CPI(M)s Sitaram Yechury rehashed an old theory that the 10 avataras of Vishnu showed ancient Indian knowledge of Darwinian evolution shortly after the Babri demolition and got the article published in major dailies, tell a leftist he is an anti-national today, and chances are he would turn defensive rather than brazen it out as they did pre-1992. Notice that, like Muslims, communists have nearly dumped their foreign gods  Karl Marx, Vladimir Lenin, Joseph Stalin, Mao Tse Tung, Che Guevara, Fidel Castro and Ho Chi Minh. All leftist demonstrations these days hold aloft indigenous mascots while also riding piggyback on Ambedkarite and Periyarite activism. In 2016, the communists were forced to carry the Indian national flag, along with their red flags, for the first time in their rallies.

The fallen Babri was a catalyst that turned hitherto foreign Indians into indigenous Indians. December 6, 1992, was an agitation, whereas January 22, 2024, will be a celebration. That day, a Hindu will celebrate as much making the enemies toe his line as he would rejoice the homecoming of his king and god whose sanctum the enemies had violated.

The author is a senior journalist and writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal has invited the Polish side to join in the construction of the Krakovets-Lviv-Brody-Rivne autobahn.

"I have proposed the Prime Minister to consider the possibility of Poland's participation in the construction of the Krakovets-Lviv-Brody-Rivne autobahn," he said at a joint press briefing with his Polish counterpart Donald Tusk in Kyiv on Monday.

This autobahn should become the continuation of Poland's longest A4 motorway, which is a part of the European route E40, Shmyhal said.

He also noted that Polish businesses could join in the construction on concession terms.

Tusk, in turn, described the proposal to Polish investors to join in the construction of the autobahn on concession terms as very interesting.
In a historic moment, the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Mandir on January 22, 2024, marks the realisation of a 500-year-old dream, a testament to faith, cultural strength, and the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This article explores the historical importance of Ram Mandir, the rituals surrounding the Pran Pratishtha, and Prime Minister Modis pivotal role in bringing this cherished dream to fruition. Additionally, it delves into the nationwide celebration and unity as the nation comes together in various ways to commemorate this significant occasion.

The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya holds unparalleled historical reverence, tracing its origins back to a 500-year-old dream cherished by millions. As the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony unfolds on January 22, it signifies not just the inauguration of a temple but the revival of an ancient cultural heritage. This event resonates deeply with the collective consciousness of the nation, symbolising the restoration of a cherished legacy.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony is the consecration of the deities within the temple, breathing life into the sacred idols. On this auspicious day, priests perform intricate rituals, invoking divine blessings and ensuring that the temple becomes a sanctum of spiritual energy. The significance of this ceremony extends beyond religious boundaries, embodying the spirit of unity and shared cultural values.

At the core of the realisation of this historic dream is the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His steadfast commitment to the construction of the Ram Mandir reflects a profound understanding of the cultural tapestry that binds the nation together. Furthermore, under the leadership of PM Modi, Ayodhya has witnessed significant economic development. The construction of the Ram Mandir has not only fulfilled a long-standing cultural and religious aspiration but has also acted as a catalyst for economic progress in the region.

The government, under PM Modis vision, has implemented various initiatives to boost infrastructure, tourism, and overall economic growth in Ayodhya. The establishment of the Ram Mandir has attracted pilgrims and tourists from across the country, contributing to the local economy. Additionally, the associated development projects have created employment opportunities, further enhancing the socio-economic landscape of Ayodhya. Prime Minister Modis commitment to balancing cultural heritage with economic development reflects a comprehensive approach to nation-building, ensuring that Ayodhya reaps the benefits of both spiritual significance and economic prosperity.

The construction of the Ram Mandir faced numerous challenges over the years, including legal complexities and societal debates. The role of the then Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi, in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir case was crucial and marked by a commitment to upholding justice and delivering a historic judgement. Chief Justice Gogoi presided over a five-judge bench that heard the complex and emotionally charged case involving the title dispute over the Ayodhya land. Under his leadership, the Supreme Court conducted extensive hearings, considering arguments from all parties involved. Chief Justice Gogoi played a key role in steering the proceedings towards a mediated resolution.

The judgement, delivered on November 9, 2019, ruled in favour of the construction of a Ram Mandir at the disputed site, while also ensuring the allocation of an alternative plot for the construction of a mosque. His efforts in navigating this sensitive case demonstrated a commitment to justice, religious harmony, and the legal principles essential for resolving long-standing disputes.

The Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir is not merely a religious event but a celebration resonating across the nation. People from diverse backgrounds join together in joyous celebration, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. Streets are illuminated, and cities echo with the sounds of bhajans and hymns. The unity is palpable as citizens, irrespective of their backgrounds, participate in various ways to mark this historic occasion. In various regions, people are organising community feasts, sharing traditional sweets, and adorning their homes with diyas and rangoli. Cultural events showcasing the rich heritage of India are being organised, allowing people to reconnect with their roots. Artists and performers express their joy through music and dance, creating a vibrant tapestry of celebration. Social media is abuzz with positive messages, with individuals sharing their thoughts, experiences, and expressions of joy using hashtags dedicated to the occasion. Virtual celebrations connect people from different parts of the country, fostering a sense of oneness.

In conclusion, the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir on January 22 marks the culmination of a 500-year-old dream, an event of profound cultural and historical significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modis visionary leadership has played a pivotal role in turning this dream into reality, showcasing a commitment to cultural heritage, unity, and economic progress. As the temple stands tall, it becomes a symbol of faith, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a nation that cherishes its past while forging ahead into a harmonious future. The nationwide celebration and unity witnessed in various expressions of joy underscore the collective pride and shared values defining the essence of India.

The author is Advocate Ashutosh Mishra, Managing Partner, Nyaayam Associates. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Yes, these issues are not in our agenda at this time. However, that is because we do not have a majority in the house. We bow our heads in front of the number strength. However, we assure you that the task that we have taken in our hand, unless that national objective is fulfilled, we will not rest.

These were the words of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The day was May 26, 1996. Today, Vajpayees promise has been fulfilled. The promise of a Ram Mandir was not just one for reviving the soul of Bhartiya civilisation, but also a core political vow of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bhartiya Janata Party. The opposition back then, led by the Congress, was trying to corner the BJP-led government for not fulfilling its three core ideological promises  of making a Ram Mandir at Ayodhya, revoking Article 370 and introducing a Uniform Civil Code. The opposition even ridiculed the fact that these promises did not feature in the then presidential address to parliament.

Twenty-eight years later, a civilisational renaissance is underway. Narendra Modi is Prime Minister and the BJP commands a handsome majority in the Lok Sabha. Article 370 is now history, and a Uniform Civil Code is on its way. 10 years since he first came to power, Bharat now has a bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, at the very site where Shri Ram was born. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday performed the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in the Mandir which has been built in accordance with a Supreme Court judgement. The dream of a Ram Mandir has been fulfilled legally. The national mood is pulsating and exuberant. The opposition gave the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya a miss. Perhaps, it was too much for them to see the promise which Vajpayee made three decades ago being fulfilled by Narendra Modi.

Saffron flags with Shri Ram portraits can be seen across the length and breadth of the nation. Crores of families are celebrating the return of Shri Ram to his rightful abode by lighting diyas, performing puja and of course, lighting up the sky. Its Deepawali all over again, only that this festival of lights is much grander and has evoked so many emotions among the people of India, especially Hindus. The myth of Shri Ram being a North Indian phenomenon has been shattered wide open. Prime Minister Modis pilgrimage to various temples in Southern Indian in recent days has shown how Shri Ram is the common binding factor for not just India, but the entire subcontinent.

Ram Mandir Movement Was Always Political

Amid the celebration, there are the party poopers as well. The opposition is making a huge fuss about the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony having been turned into a political spectacle by the BJP to earn electoral brownie points. The Congress, from denying the existence of Shri Ram to now worrying about the spiritual essence of the Mandir being eroded by politics, has certainly come a long way  albeit in the wrong direction. For a party that had no role to play in the Mandir movement, and whose Samajwadi allies in Uttar Pradesh are known for firing mercilessly at karsevaks, the Congress is certainly going out of its way to call out the supposed politicisation of the consecration ceremony.

Perhaps this would help: Yes, the Ram Mandir movement was always political. The Ram Mandir itself, apart from being a holy site of worship and a spiritual centre for Hindus, is also a living symbol of Bharats civilisational resilience. It is a testament to Dharma always prevailing over injustice and adharma. That is truly the essence of Shri Ram himself. Even if it takes over 500 years to reestablish, the final victory of right over wrong is a given. In this case, the wrong was the demolition of the original Ram Mandir by Babur and his army of marauders. It was an out and out act of adharma.

The reestablishment of dharma and restoration of any civilisational glory is impossible without a movement being political in nature. Of course, it need not necessarily be exclusively political. It can have many dimensions, including religious and cultural. Bharat is not a Western nation. Neither does India have a sense of unquestionable admiration for the model of democracy provided to it by the West, nor does it deem it necessary to wear the pretentious mask of separating Church and State.

In Bharat, politics can never be divorced from either religion or culture. Bharat has its own way of practising democracy. Today, its ancient culture and civilisational ethos are finding their rightful place in the national political discourse. This is what makes India different. Unlike others, Indian democracy is neither hollow nor without a solid foundation. The concept of Raj Dharma is now part of the mainstream narrative.

The Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony marks the culmination of a national political movement. There can be no denying the fact that the RSS, BJP and VHP have played an instrumental role in making the dream of a Ram Mandir come true for crores of Hindus. Karsevaks laid down their lives for the Mandir. When such sacrifices have been made by so many people for a Mandir, it becomes practically impossible to not see the movement as political in nature. After the events of December 6, 1992, BJP governments in four states were dismissed by the Congress, which was in power at the Centre. After having acted with such brazen unconstitutionality, it does become a bit rich for the Congress to now preach against the politicisation of the Ram Mandir and the mass movement that preceded its construction.

Now that the Mandir has been built, we must be brave enough to accept certain facts. First, why is it that the Ram Mandir dispute was fast tracked at the highest levels of judiciary, and a favourable verdict was won only after 2014? The answer is simple. First, Hindus made it clear that their core beliefs were not subject to judicial oversight. Second, the BJP being in power with a majority on its own meant that the highest levels of government in India were pushing for an early resolution of the dispute. Third, the Modi government indicated that it would be open to the ordinance route to built a Mandir at the Ram Janmabhoomi should the Supreme Court return with an unfavourable verdict. Fourth, the BJP kept the issue of the Ram Mandir alive for three decades, and that itself is no small feat.

The realisation of the Ram Mandir dream in Ayodhya marks the arrival of the political Hindu. This is a Hindu who no longer accepts marginalisation in the name of vote bank politics. This is a Hindu that knows how to take what rightfully belongs to them. This is a Hindu that is proud of Bharats ancient civilisation, and is not unnecessarily enamoured by alien concepts of secularism and the complete elimination of dharma from politics. This is a Hindu that realises that the establishment of Raj Dharma is critical to Indias journey ahead.

Finally, the Ram Mandir is a symbol of Hindus political victory for the simple reason that the movement, for the past three decades at least, has been led by political forces. Narendra Modi was himself involved in organising the pan-India Ram rath yatras. Also, PM Modi is the one who fulfilled Atal Bihari Vajpayees promise of the BJP facilitating the construction of a Ram Mandir when it came to power with a majority on its own. To put it simple, yes, the Ram Mandir is the result of a political, religious and civilisational movement. It represents the biggest political triumph for Hindus in 500 years. It has been a long and incredibly costly struggle. However, the result of it all is now out there for us to see, and bow our heads to.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Modi asked citizens to light the Ram Jyoti on January 22, a symbolic act that would serve as an inspiration to eradicate poverty from their lives. (Image: X/ Narendra Modi)
Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah, while inaugurating a Ram temple in Bengaluru on the day of the grand pran pratistha (consecration) ceremony that transfixed the nation, accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of politicising the Ayodhya event. Sri Ramchandra should not be confined to any political partys agenda, he said on Monday.

Siddaramaiah, inaugurating a temple in Bengalurus Mahadevapura dedicated to Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman, said he too was a devotee of Sri Ram and Hanuman, and that his devotion was genuine and not one that came from political compulsions.

In a statement directed at the PM who participated in the Ayodhya ceremony as chief yajman, he said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, if you are a true devotee of Ram, how many promises did you fulfill to the people of this country through your manifesto during the election? Stop and swear at the Ram Mandir inaugurated today in Ayodhya; how much needs to be fulfilled? You dont have that courage; it wont even come. Because in the name of Ram, you have only election weapons.

Speaking about how the BJP manifesto spoke of doubling the revenue of farmers, he accused the ruling party at the Centre of not providing them with drought relief.

A promise was made to build a system of cooperative federalism to empower all states, Siddaramaiah pointed out.

Is it not ironic that you snatch away their fair share and have increased cess and surcharges? the CM said.

Calling himself a Ram Bhakt, Siddaramaiah went on to say that people who revere Ram and Hanuman do not need to make a show of their devotion.

Personally, for me, reciting the promise by Ram, by Bhimrao Ambedkar, Hanuman is important, said the CM. I have continued implementing the teachings of Basavanna, of equality, by walking the talk.

Ram sees in his devotees his truth, by being true to his words and not his religion, he said. Ram expects from politicians only to build a Ram Rajya full of peace, peace, and co-existence. Siddaramaiah also stated that he is planning to visit Ayodhya. He, however, also made it a point to say that building the temple in Mahadevapura should not be construed as a political statement.

Siddaramaiah also criticised the BJP for falsely portraying opposition parties as against Lord Ram and claimed that the saffron party had malicious intentions of trying to obstruct the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi.

Leaders of the BJP had launched a sharp attack on the state administration for not declaring January 22 a holiday and labelled it an anti-Hindu government.
Dropping a bomb on the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee on Monday took a veiled dig at the Congress, saying she felt insulted at one of the meetings.

ALSO READ | No Grasp in Own Backyard: Abhishek Banerjees Dig at Congress on Seat-sharing Aspirations in Bengal

Banerjees TMC is part of the multi-party alliance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the 2024 Lok Sabha (LS) elections. On Monday, Banerjee visited a temple, mosque and church, as she held a Sanhati Rally in Kolkata, as a counter to the BJP-led pran pratishtha at Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Banerjee and her nephew and the partys national secretary Abhishek met religious leaders and citizens.

In her address, Banerjee said, I suggested the name INDIA, but when I attended the meeting I saw the Left controlling this meeting. I cant agree with a party I have been fighting against for 34 years Despite such insults, I adjust and attend INDIA meetings. If somebody helps the BJP, I will look into it.

Her statement made it clear that she was hitting out at the Congress, without naming it, as many from the TMC believe the Congress prefers the CPI(M) over them.

Under the leadership of Smt @MamataOfficial, people from diverse religions joined hands and marched in solidarity.The entire atmosphere reverberated with a spirit of unity and harmony! pic.twitter.com/aH8bqGdVrY  All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) January 22, 2024

I have the power which is why I fight with the BJP. But some people dont want to listen to us on seat-sharing. How many politicians took the BJP head-on today? Some went a temple and thought that was sufficient, but it is not. I am the only one who visited a temple, gurdwara, church and mosque and have been fighting since long. When the Babri Masjid issue happened and violence took place, I was on the streets! Banerjee said.

Political experts said it was a barb at Congresss Rahul Gandhi, making it clear that she was not happy with the seat-sharing attitude of the Congress.

ALSO READ | States Bank of I.N.D.I.A. Front: Can Allies Account for Cong Demand for More Seats in WB, Punjab, Delhi & UP?

At the last internal meeting of the TMC, Banerjee asked her leaders to prepare for 42 Lok Sabha seats. This attack on the Congress and CPI(M) raises questions on the future of her role in the INDIA alliance, said experts.

Earlier in the day, Gandhi visited a temple in Assam, but was stopped. He will enter Bengal on January 25 with his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. While the statement made it clear that the TMC will not support his rally, it remains to be seen if Gandhi will attack Banerjee in Bengal.
In the end, Ram seems to have conquered the Congress. Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra may have controversially decided to skip the Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday, but that doesnt mean the Congress or its state governments have been able to totally ignore the historic occasion.

In fact, Himachal Pradesh is the only Congress-ruled state to have declared a full day leave to mark the Pran Pratishtha. Ruling a state called the Dev Bhoomi with 98% Hindu population, it was never an option for Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to not be seen celebrating the event. But instead of going for half-day holiday like some other non-BJP states, his government declared a full day holiday.

The CMs official residence, too, has been decked up and lit with festive lights, and pujas and havans have been ordered across the hill state. Sukhus PWD minister Vikramditya Singh, in fact, has accepted the invite and said he would attend the Pran Pratishtha event.

Down south in Karnataka and Telangana, however, the Congress governments didnt announce any holiday. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah categorically stated: Work is worship. But even he could not avoid the Ram fervour. His government has ordered pujas in around 3,400 temples across the state. In Telangana, too, the Revanth Reddy government has promised to build around 100 Ram Temples across the state.

In private, several Congress leaders dont see the top brasss decision to skip the ceremony in Ayodhya as politically prudent. So while the party and Rahul Gandhi have declared that religion is a personal issue, they couldnt avoid going to temples during this period. In fact, during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Rahul Gandhi has visited temples much to the scorn of the BJP.

The fact that Rahul Gandhi reacted strongly to Jai Shri Ram slogans being chanted by BJP supporters during his yatra through Assam and that he has visited many minority-dominated areas has given the BJP more ammunition ahead of the Lok Sabha elections on the mandir issue.
Amid celebrations across the country on the much-awaited occasion of pran pratishtha at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said only one person can visit the temple, in a veiled dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi, after being stopped at Haibargaon en route to the sattra (Sankardevas birthplace) in Assam, said, Aaj sirf ek vyakti mandir ja sakta hai (today only one person can visit temple).

During a law and order crisis, everyone can visit the birthplace of Vaishnav saint Srimanta Sankardeva, only Rahul Gandhi cannot go, the Congress leader said in Assams Nagaon on Monday.

#WATCH | On being allowed to enter Batadrava Than in Assam only after 3 pm, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says Aaj sirf ek vyakti mandir mein ja sakta hain pic.twitter.com/9pz1d6iiuv ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

He is like a guru to us and gives us direction. So I had thought when I came to Assam, I should offer my respects to him, Rahul Gandhi said, adding that they had received an invitation on January 11. However, on January 21, we were told that there is a law and order situation he added.

This is strange as there is a law and order situation in the area, but Gaurav Gogoi and all can go but only Rahul Gandhi cannot go. There may be some reason but I will go to Batadrava when I get an opportunity. It is my belief that both Assam and the entire nation should follow the path shown by Sankardeva, the Congress leader further said.

Taking to microblogging site X, Gandhi wrote, Shankar Dev ji wove the cultural diversity of India into the thread of unity through devotion, but today I was prevented from bowing my head at his place. I bowed to the Lord from outside the temple and took His blessings. We will carry forward this struggle for dignity against unlimited power.

                 ,                                    pic.twitter.com/EjMS1hB6pG  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 22, 2024

Gandhi was stopped at Haibargaon en route to the sattra (Sankardevas birthplace), after which, he along with senior Congress leaders and supporters staged a dharna while party MP Gaurav Gogoi and Batadrava MLA Sibamoni Bora proceeded to the birthplace to resolve the issue.

Gandhi and other party leaders including Jairam Ramesh started singing Rahupati Raghav Raja Ram while sitting on dharna.

#WATCH | Nagaon, Assam | Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Jairam Ramesh and others sing Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram as they sit on a protest against not being allowed to visit Batadrava Than before 3 pm today. pic.twitter.com/8Y9fszZ8j0 ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

According to a PTI report, the managing committee of the Sri Sankardeva Sattra, had, on Sunday, announced that they will not allow the Congress leader to visit the sattra before 3:00 pm on January 22.

The announcement had come after Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had, earlier in the day stated at a press conference that he had requested Rahul Gandhi not to visit the sattra before the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh weighed in and said the authorities had told Gandhi that there could be a law and order problem and when he (Gandhi) offered to go alone, the request was turned down.

It is clear that it is their deliberate policy to prevent him from going to the holy place which occupies a place of social, cultural and religious importance for all, Ramesh said.

(With PTI inputs)
Googles AI revolution picks up pace across corners. The company has launched Gemini AI in three versions that works on large machines, smartphones and more. But the biggest change from Google could signal the end of Assistant on your phone and bring Bard to the forefront in the near future.

Thats right, Bard could become the de-facto AI assistant on phones replacing the old Google Assistant for good. The details of these changes come via 9to5Google which has spotted the new rebranding in an app that has been uploaded on the Play Store.

Just a few weeks back, you were able to see Assistant written on the app and even in the intro message for users. But the report states that the latest update to the same app now shows Bard separately with no sign of Assistant anywhere in the code trail. Knowing Google and its habits, it is likely that Assistant is now giving way to Bard as the company looks for an AI overhaul of its assistant on phones.

Does this mean Google is ready to give up Assistant in favour of just Bard from here on? The company hasnt officially talked about these changes, at least for now, so we would rather wait for Google to confirm the rebranding and also see if any new AI feature makes its way to the consumers.

One would say that with the ever-evolving ChatGPT now working on Android phones, it was inevitable that Google looked at the assistant with a new approach. Bard is probably the right direction to move in for Google and let its AI-centric plans take shape.

The company has already decided to remove around 20 features from the Assistant which hints at something brewing behind the scenes at Google and the latest findings give it further credibility. For all you know, Hey Bard, might soon become the wake word for Android users who want to activate the AI-powered assistant.
Meet a Saudi national whose fame isnt rooted in oil fields and fortunes but rather in a melodic prowess set to captivate the souls of Bollywood fans. Yes, all the melody fans, pay attention to Ahmed Al Maimani, the embodiment of a seamless fusion between the Arab and Indian realms. His repertoire boasts renditions of Bollywood gems like Chand Sifarish, Aankhon Mein Teri, Ek Pal Ka Jeena, and more. In fact, the videos of his performances have become a recurrent spectacle on YouTube and social media, enchanting hearts, and compelling fans like us to indulge in the irresistible joy of crooning along to our cherished Hindi melodies.

Dont believe us? Take a look at some of his videos before delving into the captivating narrative of his journey and beyond!

Ahmed Al Maimani, aka Ahmed Sultan, harbored a passion for Bollywood from his formative years. As per Khaleej Times, he devoured Hindi cinema via VHS cassettes, given that KSA (Kingdom of South Africa) lacked cinema theaters at the time. His admiration for Hindi cinema seamlessly translated into an affinity for its melodies. You might not know how to speak the language well, but you can certainly sing songs in it," he quips. A young Ahmed from Al Khobar began singing along, and as he entered the workforce, he serenaded at office gatherings.

Also Read: Why is Everyone Talking About Alia Bhatts Saree She Wore at Saudi Arabia Event?

Yet, it was at the Al Janadriyah festivals, an annual cultural and heritage extravaganza near Riyadh, that Ahmeds narrative took a fascinating twist. Spotting a close friend managing the event on stage, who worked for the Indian embassy, Ahmed sought his attention in the crowd. Finally I picked up a small stone and hurled it at him and he looked annoyed as to who had hit him. When he saw me, he broke into a smile. I told him at that time, I wanted to be on stage and sing a Hindi song." The friend introduced him to the music team, and after a sound check, Ahmed found himself on stage, serenading an audience of 3,000 people.

While Ahmed was no stranger to singing at office parties, this marked his debut on a grand public stage. I sang Aankhon Mein Teri, followed by Chand Sifarish and the crowd cheered and supported me. I couldnt believe myself but since I was enjoying myself, I could see they were enjoying themselves too," reminisces Ahmed.

Post the show, Ahmed became the focal point for press and event companies vying to collaborate with him. Hindi and Urdu are languages spoken by my colleagues and staff of the company, and so, I perfected the language thanks to them," he notes.

Yet, this was just the beginning. Following the Al Janadriyah show, the embassy kept him in mind, extending an invitation for an upcoming event with a unique condition  he had to sing in Tamil. I learned three lines in two months and went on stage to sing with KS Chitra madam onstage. The Saudi guy singing a Tamil song from a Malayalam movie became viral," he chuckles.

Soon, Ahmed found himself summoned to Dubai for a show with Sithara and Akbar, the emerging stars from Kerala, and these events began to dominate his life. I took part in the Riyadh season and one month back in another event with 5,000 people."

Also Read: Dubai Sheikhs Huge Hummer Towers Over Regular Cars on Road, Old Video Goes Viral Again

All this has earned Ahmed a substantial following on Instagram, and interestingly, his fans prefer him to sing in Hindi rather than Arabic. But I want to blend both since lots of Arabic songs are remade in Hindi," he reveals, providing a tantalising peek into a life and musical journey as riveting as a Hindi blockbuster!
Baby showers are a special occasion for parents. Friends, family, and relatives are invited to celebrate the expectant mother, and everyone delves into a celebratory mood. While baby showers are usually a fun-filled event, one particular baby shower has raised the eyebrows of the internet. It so happened that a New York-based musician impregnated five of his partners, almost at the same time. To celebrate the joy of becoming a father, he threw a lavish baby shower for all five women at the same time. The revelation came through a TikTok video posted by one of the expectant mothers. Pictures and videos from the joint baby shower have gone viral.

According to a report by the New York Post, Zeddy Will, a 22-year-old musician would become the father of five or more children. One of his partners Ashleigh dropped a party invitation on TikTok, depicting that the baby shower will be held at Queens on January 14. The would-be mothers and their partner Zeddy posed for a family picture for the invitation. Welcome little Zeddy Wills 1-5 read the note. Ashleigh captioned the post, I guess were Sister Wives now. Apart from Ashleigh, the five expectant mothers were Bonnie B, Jylene Vila, Kay Marie, and Iyanla Kalifa Galletti.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lizzy Ashliegh (@lizzyashmusic)

In one of the pictures dropped on Instagram by Ashleigh, the five women were seen posing together and dancing happily at the baby shower party. Zeddy Will marked his presence in the fourth slide, sitting on a chair, surrounded by his ladyloves. This is our baby daddy introduced Ashleigh on the pictorial layout. In the following slide, she wrote, We have accepted each other. Its better for the little ones Look at our beautiful family.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lizzy Ashliegh (@lizzyashmusic)

Social media users were unable to grasp the seemingly bizarre baby shower and expressed their shock in the comments. This would be a great reality Show, read one sarcastic remark. Doing the best out of a complicated situation love it. Is this even real? questioned another surprised individual. Trying to be positive about the entire situation, a third user wrote, Keeping my questions and opinions to myself but I am glad to see a group of women come together and be positive in that type of situation.

This baby shower was unlike any other. What do you have to say?
Zhang Junxia expressed her deep gratitude after she returned to North China's Hebei province, where she got a great job to develop her talent.

"Upon achieving success in my studies, I, a native of Hebei, wanted to do something for my hometown and contribute to its development," said Zhang, 48, a professor at Hebei University's School of Life Sciences in Baoding.

Born and raised in Cangzhou, another city in Hebei, Zhang pursued her studies at the university in Baoding before embarking on a studying and working journey in 2005 that led her across the globe. During the period, she obtained Canadian citizenship and focused on the study of arachnids and insects' molecular phylogeny and biogeography.

"In 2019, I got an opportunity to work at my alma mater and join the university's arachnology research team. I was excited to return," Zhang said.

According to Hebei University, Zhang's participation has significantly enhanced the team's research capabilities in molecular phylogenetic evolution.

Zhang received a total of 400,000 yuan ($55,600) in project startup funds and settling down expenses in Baoding, as well as assistance from the university in arranging accommodation within a 15-minute walk from her laboratory.

"I never expected to receive such great recognition and support. I was deeply moved," Zhang said.

Since her return in 2019, Zhang has published 25 research papers in prestigious international journals such as Cladistics and Systematic Entomology.

In 2022, in recognition of her contributions to scientific research and the development of Hebei, Zhang was conferred the Yanzhao Friendship Award, the highest honor given to foreign experts by the Hebei provincial government.

Alongside Zhang, 19 other foreign experts were also recipients of this prestigious award.

In recent years, Hebei has been dedicated to fostering a favorable working and living environment for professionals from all around the world.

To this end, a series of measures have been rolled out to promote the hiring of international high-end professionals.

In December, the province's foreign affairs office and department of education jointly unveiled eight measures to promote the hiring of more international high-end professionals, initially for over 100 positions and specialties at 18 institutions of higher learning.

zhangyu1@chinadaily.com.cn
Ukraine expects Poland to take steps towards lifting restrictions for Ukrainian farmers, producers  Shmyhal

Ukraine expects Poland to take steps to lift restrictions for Ukrainian farmers and producers, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has said.

"As of today, the issue has been resolved, the border has been unblocked and joint work is giving results," Shmyhal said at a briefing with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Monday in Kyiv.

The Prime Minister noted that, for its part, Ukraine promised to do everything not to harm and to support Polish farmers and carriers.

"We expect that Poland will also take steps to lift restrictions for Ukrainian farmers and producers," Shmyhal added.

He also said that Ukraine had proposed a mechanism for verifying the export of agricultural products in accordance with the decision of the European Commission.

In turn, Tusk said that the suspension of the blockade at the border and the introduction of useful mechanisms for Polish carriers who return with empty trucks from Ukraine helped in resolving this issue.

According to him, Poland will evaluate the verification mechanisms proposed by Ukraine and find a solution that will suit the farmers of both countries.
Rare are the movies that etch themselves into our favourites or the always watchable list, and for Bollywood enthusiasts, Taare Zameen Par proudly claims its spot. A rollercoaster of emotions with a compelling message, the film arrived at a time when many of us were oblivious to the intense struggles kids face, not at the hands of outsiders, but within their own families.

The term dyslexia was a novelty, and ever since, it has invoked the image of Ishaan Awasthi (Darsheel Safary), the kid with bunny teeth. He, imperfect in the eyes of his parents, taught us that perfection is a diverse concept, extending far beyond academicsa lesson often overlooked by parents while assessing their childs intelligence. And who can forget the impact of having a Ram Shankar Nikumbh (Aamir Khan) in our lives, someone who truly understood when no one else did!

While we could indulge in endless discussions about this cinematic gem from 2007, a recent video edit surfaced, shedding light on Ishaans struggles with his parents. This sparked a renewed conversation among Desis on the internet, as they couldnt resist sharing how the movie resonated with them then and continues to leave an impact today.

It all kicked off when an X user shared the video edit with the caption, Watching this as an adult makes me want to throw up he was just a child :( Soon, the comments poured in.

One user shared a deeply personal connection, revealing, No other movie ever had the kind of impact on me that this movie had. as a not so bright kid with bunny teeth, often left behind and would draw on exam sheets  ishaan just GOT me. life slowly got kinder, then a huge downfall, then again kinder.. ishaan is my hero even today.

Also Read: Best Moment: Aamir Khans Taare Zameen Par Clip Takes Fans On Nostalgic Ride

Another user, in a more serious tone, shared, No movie has ever made an impact on me as much as TZP. The fact that I shared the name, age, and the bunny teeth with the kid didnt help. People called me Ishaan Awasthi as a joke and that used to scare tf out of me. 17 years and I still dont have the courage to watch it again.

no other movie ever had the kind of impact on me that this movie had. as a not so bright kid with bunny teeth, often left behind and would draw on exam sheets  ishaan just GOT me. life slowly got kinder, then a huge downfall, then again kinder.. ishaan is my hero even today https://t.co/Qr9PDJxjuR deanehoe  (@saarhairadha) January 21, 2024

No movie has ever made an impact on me as much as TZP. The fact that I shared the name, age, and the bunny teeth with the kid didnt help. People called me Ishaan Awasthi as a joke and that used to scare tf out of me. 17 years and I still dont have the courage to watch it again. https://t.co/xQWlzhEBc6 ishan (@ishansolo) January 21, 2024

Reflecting on the movies ahead-of-its-time brilliance, a third user wrote, Omg I remember the first time I watched taare zameen par I cried for like an hour afterwards because it was such an emotional experience & was so frustrated by the adults around me saying there was a lesson for both ishaan and the parents like no ur not getting the movie at all!

Also Read: Aamir Khan Fans Miss Satyamev Jayate, Call His Child Sexual Abuse Workshop the Best Till Date

The fourth user emotionally noted, Them giving the dad a redemption arc like the damage on ishaan hadnt already been done also that line in ma that talks about his mom staying quiet while his dad scolded him this movie breaks me everytime.

Omg I remember the first time I watched taare zameen par I cried for like an hour afterwards because it was such an emotional experience & was so frustrated by the adults around me saying there was a lesson for both ishaan and the parents like no ur not getting the movie at all! https://t.co/xQrkn2Swat azzana (@azzasfatalflaw) January 22, 2024

them giving the dad a redemption arc like the damage on ishaan hadnt already been done also that line in ma that talks about his mom staying quiet while his dad scolded him this movie breaks me everytime  (@kookilysm) January 22, 2024

Praises were also showered on Darsheel Safary, who impeccably portrayed the role of Ishaan Awasthi as a child actor. I still wonder how can that kid justify that role. He ate that literally, commented one user. Another chimed in, The way darsheel safary ate that role up so effortlessly. idk if any other child actor could give the same justification to the character of ishaan awasthi tbh.

I still wonder how can that kid justify that role. He ate that literally Syed Naveed Xhah. (@nomi_shahh_) January 21, 2024

the way darsheel safary ate that role up so effortlessly. idk if any other child actor could give the same justification to the character of ishaan awasthi tbh estel #  (@seolartaem) January 21, 2024

everytime i come across ishaan awasthi edits-pic.twitter.com/c8t54SEs7H https://t.co/b5KISEHpQS olive penderghast (@backflip2hell) January 21, 2024

Truly, its the brilliance of artists that makes art worth celebrating, and for those behind this movie, take a bow!
The Janaki Temple in Nepals Janakpur was decorated with lights and earthen lamps as Nepalis prepare to celebrate the Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Janakpur is known as the home of the in-laws of Lord Ram. The city is bustling with activities ahead of the ceremony. Adorned with decorative lights, Janakpur was reminiscent of the festival of lights, Diwali, a report by news agency ANI said.

Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony: Catch All Updates from Pran Pratishtha Ceremony HERE

Raja Ramchandra after the Banbas (exile) in Tretayuga, the pain he had to endure; it continued in Kaliyuga as well, he had to struggle for five hundred years in Ayodhya- the birth land of Lord Ram, he had to shelter under the tarpaulin, his pain indeed was the pain of all the Hindus. Our ancestors had fought and struggled hard and the end result is here with the construction of the temple of Maryadapurush Lord Ram whose Pran Pratistha is scheduled for tomorrow. On this occasion, I congratulate all the Indian nationals and Janakpur also is in state of joyousness, Pramod Kumar Chaudhary, former chairman of the Shree Ram Youth Committee, was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Ashutosh Jha, one of the members of the organizing committee, said people of Janakpur and Mithila have come together to provide oil, lamps, clay items along with other items of necessity which we would require to light two hundred and fifty thousand oil-fed lamps.

Residents of Janakpur and Mithila are extending their support providing oil, lamps, clay items along with other items of necessity which we would require to make our campaign successful. Despite the nightfall, people still have been signing themselves up for the donation of oil which ranges from one litre to the highest as per their capacity, Asutosh Jha was quoted as saying by ANI.

From Janakpur in Nepal, the Chief Mahanth and the Chotte Mahanth have been invited to partake in the ceremony and have already embarked on their journey to Ayodhya.

In a symbolic gesture, Janakpur previously sent offerings, locally referred to as Bhaar, to Ayodhya as part of the ritual. These offerings included ornaments, cuisines, clothes, and other daily essentials, enhancing the cultural and religious ties between the two regions.

The sanctum sanctorum of the Ayodhya temple now houses the idol of Lord Ram. Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj crafted the idol which stands at 51 inches tall, weighing 1.5 tonnes. It depicts Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus, also made from the same stone.
At least eight people were killed and 39 others went missing after a landslide struck southwest Chinas mountainous Yunnan province on Monday. The disaster struck the Liangshui village of Zhaotong city at 5:51 am Beijing time, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Eight people were confirmed dead in the landslide, official media reports said. As many as 39 others are missing. All the 47 victims are from 18 different households, rescue officials said.

Over 500 residents were evacuated from the landslide-hit areas as the provincial commission for disaster reduction activated a Level-III emergency response for disaster relief, state-run CCTV reported. Efforts are on to rescue the people trapped under the landslide, official media reported.

A total of 795 rescue workers equipped with one drone and 120 vehicles, including excavators, loaders and transport vehicles, are carrying out search and rescue work at the site. As many as 33 firefighting vehicles and 10 loading machines are also mobilised to search for the missing. More than 100 tents, 400 quilts, 200 cotton coats and 14 sets of emergency lighting equipment have also been provided.

Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered an all-out search and rescue of the people missing in the landslide. [We should] promptly organise rescue teams, make all-out efforts to search for missing individuals, and minimise casualties to the greatest extent possible, Xi was quoted as saying in the Xinhua report.

Xi, the general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called on party cadres to watch out for other natural disaster risks and hidden dangers to effectively ensure the safety of peoples lives and property as a result of the wave of cold weather that swept across southern China just three weeks before the Lunar New Year. Chinese Premier Li Qiang also ordered an all-out rescue effort in Liangshui and emphasised the need to maintain social stability, in light of the areas high altitude and ethnic diversity.

It is necessary to promptly evacuate the threatened population, handle resettlement properly, effectively ensure the safety of peoples lives and property, and maintain overall social stability, Li was quoted as saying by the official media. The cause of the landslide was not immediately known.

The local weather forecast light snow in the town on Tuesday, with the lowest temperature expected to reach -3 degree Celsius, the report said. The Chinese government has allocated 50 million yuan (about USD 7 million) as disaster fund to carry out the rescue and relief operations.

The government has also deployed the military and militias for the rescue operation. A total of 104 militia members in Zhenxiong County were also mobilised, Xinhua reported.
Pakistan has no business in Ayodhyas Ram Mandir, but it tried to instigate Indian Muslims on the day the entire country came together in celebrations, top government sources in New Delhi told CNN-News18 on Monday, after Islamabad condemned the construction of the temple.

We are not a banana republic like them  where judiciary is fixed and works on the directions of the ISI (Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence), foreign ministry officials said, in a reference to Pakistans much-criticised judicial system. The officials underlined the long court proceedings that preceded the construction of the temple  and added that Indias top court had heard the matter. In fact, it was the Indian Supreme Court that granted the entire disputed land in Ayodhya to deity Ram Lalla, and directed the Centre to allot a five-acre plot to Muslims for a mosque in November 2019.

This case has undergone many decades of judicial scrutiny. It has gone through all courts, including the apex court. No major judgment was by a single bench, and minority judges were also involved in the verdict, the officials cited above said, highlighting the fair and decades-long judicial review of the high-profile case.

The officials added that Pakistan was trying to create trouble by provoking Indian Muslims who took part in celebrations in the Uttar Pradesh city of Ayodhya, where the deitys pran pratishtha ceremony took place in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. The officials said India has given space to all religions. They also asked Pakistan to save Hindu places of worship, a reference to attacks on temples.

Indias sharp retort came after the Pakistan government condemned the construction and consecration of the Ram Temple on the site of the demolished Babri Mosque, which was torn down by a mob on December 6, 1992. It also criticised Indias judiciary for allowing the temple at the site.

A temple built on the site of a demolished mosque will remain a blot on the face of Indias democracy for the times to comeThe rising tide of Hindutva ideology in India poses a serious threat to religious harmony and regional peaceThe international community should take cognisance of the growing Islamophobia, hate speech and hate crimes in India, Pakistans foreign office said in a statement, drawing a sharp and swift rebuttal from India.
Australia has halted its Golden Visa program, initially designed to attract foreign business, providing affluent overseas investors the privilege to live in the country. The Australian Significant Investor Visa (SIV), dubbed as Golden Visa, was introduced by the Julia Gillard government in 2012.

It offered a streamlined pathway for High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) to permanent residency through investment immigration. The visa required a minimum investment of USD 5 million in Australia, in exchange for automatic permanent residency. Aside from no age limit, holders of the investor visa werent required to learn or speak English.

Since 2012, thousands of SIVs have been granted, with 85 percent of successful applicants coming from China, BBC reported. It was found that the visa was delivering poor economic outcomes and was being used by corrupt officials to park illicit funds. Australias Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil said the troubled programme was part of a broken system the Labour government had inherited. It has been obvious for years that this visa is not delivering what our country and economy needs from a migration system, she said on Monday.

A major review of the migration system found skilled migrants contribute USD 300,000 more to the economy over their lifetime than those who bought their way into the country, SBS News reported. It also found that a targeted talent and innovation visa would create a streamlined pathway to attract highly skilled migrants, including entrepreneurs, investors and global researchers to drive growth in key sectors.

Read More: Australia to Tighten Visa Rules for Intl Students; Tougher English Tests and More to Fix Broken System

Last month, the Australian government said that it would tighten visa rules for international students and low-skilled workers which could halve its migrant intake over the next two years. This decision was aimed at overhauling what the government said was a broken migration system. As per the new plan, international students would need to secure higher ratings on English tests and there would be more scrutiny on a students second visa application that would prolong their stay.

Our strategy will bring migration numbers back to normal, ONeil said last month during a media briefing. But its not just about numbers. Its not just about this moment and the experience of migration our country is having at this time. This is about Australias future. The decision comes after roughly half a million temporary migrants entered the country in the last year, a post-pandemic boom after years of closed borders. The government believes its reforms  along with short-term trends  will bring the number closer to 250,000 in 2024-2025.
Canada on Monday said it will establish a temporary, two-year cap on the number of new study permits issued to international students. The cap will be set to around 364,000 study permits, which could translate into a 35 per cent overall reduction in new study visas in 2024, with specific provinces facing even steeper reductions, Immigration Minister Marc Miller said.

The announcement came at a time when the number of international students holding study permits in Canada surpassed one million for the first time last year, according to a report by The Globe and Mail.

Of all international students, 37 per cent were from India, constituting the largest national cohort.

The two-year limit on international student admissions adds to the series of measures taken by the Canadian government in recent months to tighten integrity controls within Canadas student visa programme.

These measures are to ensure that as future students arrive in Canada, they receive the quality of education that they signed up for and the hope that they were provided in their home countries. It would be a disservice to welcome international students to Canada knowing that now all of them are getting the resources they need to succeed in Canada, Miller said while speaking in Montreal today.

Allowing bad actors to continue their operations would be a disservice to all of the good institutions who pride themselves on providing a top-tier academic experience, he added.

Canada had been contemplating the possibility of putting a cap on the number of international students to help reduce the surge in demand for housing and fix the system that has gone out of control.

For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35 per cent from 2023, Miller said.

According to the Minister, the government is allocating the cap space by province based on population.

Some provinces will see much more significant reductions. Some provinces will have room to [grow] if they so choose but the provinces that have been most heavily affected will have to decrease by about 50 per cent or perhaps even a bit more than 50 per cent when it comes to new incoming [students], he said.

The minister also announced that effective immediately, applicants must provide a provincial attestation with their study permit application.

However, the limit on permits will not apply to students in graduate-level programmes, including masters or doctoral studies, Miller said, adding that study permit applications at the elementary and secondary school levels will also be exempt from the cap.

The cap will also not apply to applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies, nor will it affect study permit holders currently in Canada, the minister added.
A civil liberties crackdown, repression in Xinjiang and Hong Kongs draconian national security law are among concerns expected to be raised during a UN review of Chinas rights record on Tuesday.

Beijing is likely to face intense scrutiny, especially from Western countries, during its regular Universal Periodic Review (UPR)  an examination of all 193 UN member states must undergo every four to five years to assess their human rights record.

It is very important to hold China to account, a Western diplomat said.

The array of issues likely to be raised is vast, from the sweeping national security law imposed on Hong Kong in 2020 to quash dissent after pro-democracy protests, to alleged efforts to erase cultural and religious identity in Tibet.

Much focus is expected to remain on the situation in the northwestern Xinjiang region, where China is accused of incarcerating more than a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.

Beijing vehemently rejects the charges, which were already put forward during its last UPR in 2018.

Since then, more UN documentation has been provided, including a report released by UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet just minutes before her term ended in 2022.

 Crimes against humanity 

That report, flatly rejected by China, cites possible crimes against humanity.

But amid intense Chinese pressure, UN Human Rights Council members narrowly voted in October 2022 against even debating the reports contents.

We havent seen a really substantive discussion about the report, said Sarah Brooks, Amnesty Internationals deputy director for China.

Rights advocates voiced hope the UPR could provide a chance for countries to back the findings and demand action from Beijing.

This is the perfect opportunity for countries to raise the issue and demand tangible action to stop the ongoing genocide, Dolkun Isa, a Uyghur activist based in Germany and president of the World Uyghur Congress, told AFP.

Sophie Richardson, the former China director at Human Rights Watch, said Beijing should face pointed questions on the substantiated concerns about crimes against humanity.

Questions are also expected to be raised on Beijings crackdown on civil society, which is sometimes felt as far away as Geneva.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the death of activist Cao Shunli, who was detained as she attempted to travel to Geneva ahead of Chinas 2013 UPR.

After being held for several months without charge, she fell gravely ill and died in March 2014.

Richardson urged the diplomats coming to the UPR to delve into such concerns.

They must take the process seriously, she said.

 Politicisation 

A large Chinese delegation, headed by Beijings ambassador to the UN in Geneva, Chen Xu, will take part in the event and attempt to present its rights situation in a far more positive light.

We uphold respect for and protection of human rights as a task of importance in state governance, Yuyun Liu, spokesperson at the Chinese mission in Geneva, told AFP in an email.

The spokesperson stressed that China firmly opposes the politicisation of human rights and double standards.

In a bid to control the narrative, Beijing has reportedly requested the UN ensure anti-China separatists are not granted access to the session, and that any anti-China slogans are excluded.

Observers also warn that China has been pressuring countries to express positive feedback and working to ensure more critical nations have little time to speak.

Advanced questions submitted by some countries hint at pandering.

Belarus, for instance, states that China upholds that all ethnic groups are equal, and asks Beijing to share the efforts and practices by the Chinese government in protecting the rights of ethnic minorities.

Chinas critics accuse Beijing of pushing supporters to fill the allotted speaking time with praise.

In total, 163 states have registered to speak during the half-day session, leaving each country with just 45 seconds on the clock.

How do we encapsulate our concerns regarding China in 45 seconds? the Western diplomat said.

US ambassador Michele Taylor agreed, telling an event at the UN in Geneva on Monday she had been practicing my speed-reading ahead of the UPR.

I will get all of my points across.
Indians around the world came together to celebrate the historic inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh and the pran pratishtha ceremony that is taking place on Monday marking the homecoming of Lord Ram. Across the US, UK as well as in Australia, the global Indian diaspora were united in jubilation as the event marked a profound moment in the nations cultural history.

Indian diaspora illuminated Times Square, New York to celebrate the Pran Prathistha ceremony at Ram Mandir, Ayodhya. (Pics: Consulate General of India, New York's 'X' account) pic.twitter.com/Y4Vq3TmAri  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony: Catch All Updates from Pran Pratishtha Ceremony HERE

Hindus abroad expressed their connections to Ayodhya and the significance of the Ram Mandir for the diaspora. The Indian diaspora in the US illuminated Times Square, New York to celebrate the event.

We never thought that we would witness this day in this lifetime. Soon Ayodhyas Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony will take place. People in Times Square are also celebrating this. All this is taking place under the leadership of PM Modi People across the world are eager for this moment, Prem Bhandari, Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir, was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. The group also distributed sweets to people inside Times Square.

A report by the news agency further said that events were lined up all the way from New York Times Square to Boston, as well as in Washington, DC, Los Angeles and San Francisco. These will happen at the same time as the ceremony in India happens.

In New Jerseys Monroe, a 25-feet statue of Lord Hanuman was brought for installation by the devotees. Suryanarayana Maddula, the chairman of the temple and culture centre, along with trustee Pankaj Mohan, and co-founders Ramesh Taduvai and Ramkrishna Sannidhi were joined by community leaders Alok Kumar, Sanjeev Singh, Rajiv Akhaury and Anurag Kumar as the statue arrived in Monroe, news agency ANI reported.

The inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya garnered international attention, with political leaders and lawmakers from around the world extending their wishes ahead of the ceremony.

Israeli envoy to India Kobbi Shoshani in a post on social media site X posted a photo of Ayodhya and said he can feel the history in the air. I can feel the history in the aireven far from Ayodhya, Shoshani said.

The Israeli Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, also extended warm greetings to the people of India ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. He expressed his desire to visit the temple in the near future as well. Hearty greetings to the people of India on this auspicious occasion of Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha. This is a historic moment for devotees across the world, the Israeli ambassador said in a post on social media site X.
The World Health Organization chief fears plans for a global pandemic preparedness agreement will fall apart amid wrangling and disinformation, warning on Monday that future generations may not forgive us.

Shaken by the Covid-19 pandemic, the WHOs 194 member states decided more than two years ago to start negotiating an international accord aimed at ensuring countries are better equipped to deal with the next health catastrophe, or to prevent it altogether.

The plan was to seal the agreement at the 2024 World Health Assembly, the WHOs decision-making body, which convenes on May 27.

But WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the momentum had been slowed down by entrenched positions and a torrent of fake news, lies, and conspiracy theories.

And he warned that if nobody is prepared to seize the initiative or give ground, the whole project risks going nowhere.

Time is very short. And there are several outstanding issues that remain to be resolved, Tedros told the WHOs executive board in Geneva.

Failure to strike an agreement would be a missed opportunity for which future generations may not forgive us, he said.

Tedros said all countries needed the capacity to detect and share pathogens presenting a risk, and timely access to tests, treatments and vaccines.

He called for a strong agreement that will help to protect our children and grandchildren from future pandemics.

Tedros said claims that the accord would cede sovereignty to the WHO or give it the power to impose lockdowns and vaccine mandates were completely false.

We cannot allow this historic agreement, this milestone in global health, to be sabotaged.

 Extreme amount of work 

WHO member states decided in December 2021 to create a new international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, aimed at ensuring the flaws that turned Covid-19 into a global crisis could never happen again.

WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan reminded countries how the pandemic ripped apart our social, economic and political systems and became a multi-trillion dollar problem.

In the midst of major geopolitical conflicts, this is one thing the world agrees on, he said.

Roland Driece of the Netherlands, who is co-chairing the negotiations, said the project had condensed a seven-year process into two years.

He said the accord should be ambitious, innovative and with clear commitments.

On the disagreements, he said European countries wanted more money invested in pandemic prevention, while Africa wanted the knowledge and financing to make that work, plus proper access to pandemic counter-measures like vaccines and treatments.

He said there were two sessions of two weeks left to do an extreme amount of work.

Parallel negotiations are also going on to reform the International Health Regulations (IHR), which many countries felt had been found badly wanting.

Under these, Tedros declared Covid-19 a public health emergency of international concern on January 30, 2020  the highest level of alert available under the regulations.

But it was not until March 2020 when he described the worsening situation as a pandemic  a word that does not exist in the IHR vocabulary  that the world jolted into action, by which time the virus was already widespread.

Tedros declared an end to the international emergency in May 2023.

Ashley Bloomfield, the chief executive of New Zealands health ministry during the pandemic, is co-chairing the IHR negotiations.

Like Tedros, he slammed a coordinated and sophisticated campaign of misinformation and disinformation attempting to undermine the process.

He said there were 300 proposed amendments to plough through during the talks.
Palestinian militant group Hamas on Sunday defended its October 7 attacks against Israel but admitted to faults and called for an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, where the health ministry said the death toll passed 25,000.

Southern Gaza is the latest focus of Israels battle to destroy the Islamist group responsible for the deadliest attack in the countrys history.

In its first public report on the attacks that began the war, Hamas said they were a necessary step against Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, and a way to secure release of Palestinian prisoners.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later vowed complete victory and said his government would not accept Hamass conditions for releasing hostages still held in Gaza.

Hamass 16-page report admitted some faults happened due to the rapid collapse of the Israeli security and military system, and the chaos caused along the border areas.

The war began when gunmen broke through Gazas militarised border to attack Israelis and foreigners in the streets, in their homes and at an outdoor rave party.

This resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.

Accounts of sexual violence emerged but the scarcity of survivor testimonies and a lack of forensic evidence made it difficult to assess their scale.

Militants seized about 250 hostages during the attacks, and Israel says around 132 remain in Gaza.

Dead hostages

The army announced the death of another soldier in the October 7 attacks and said his body remains in Gaza.

This brings to 28 the number of dead captives still in the Palestinian territory, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli data.

Hamas  considered a terrorist group by the United States and European Union  said in the report that its fighters were committed to Islamic values, and if civilians were targeted it happened accidentally and in the course of the confrontation with the occupation forces.

It called for Israel to be held legally accountable for Palestinian suffering and urged popular pressure around the world until ending the occupation.

In response to the attacks, Israel launched a military offensive that has killed at least 25,105 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.

Netanyahu is under intense pressure to return the hostages and account for security failings surrounding the October 7 attacks.

Relatives and supporters of the hostages on Sunday again rallied for their return home, near Netanyahus residence in Jerusalem.

In a video statement released after the Hamas report, Netanyahu said that in exchange for the release of our hostages, Hamas demands an end to the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of Palestinian prisoners and guarantees that Hamas would stay in power.

If we accept this, our soldiers have fallen in vain, and security would not be guaranteed, Netanyahu said.

United Nations agencies have warned of famine and disease as Gazans, 1.7 million of whom are displaced, struggle with shortages of water, medical care and other essentials during daily bombardment.

Donkey carts

With fuel scarce, they have increasingly turned to donkey carts for transport.

Anyone who used to own a car now uses a donkey. Even businessmen or officials try to collect money just to buy a donkey, said Badr al-Akhras, a trader of the beasts.

Diplomatic efforts have sought scaled-up aid deliveries for Gaza, and a truce, after a week-long cessation of hostilities in November saw Hamas release dozens of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

On Sunday 260 humanitarian aid trucks were transferred to Gaza, according to COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry body responsible for Palestinian civilian affairs.

On Friday the UN reported 288 trucks had entered, but the figures are far below pre-war levels.

Hamass Qatar-based chief Ismail Haniyeh met with Turkeys foreign minister to discuss the conflict and humanitarian aid, diplomatic sources said on Sunday.

The United States, Arab countries and other governments are seeking a solution involving Palestinian statehood, but Netanyahu has rejected it, saying Israel must retain security control over Gaza.

The Hamas report rejected any international and Israeli efforts to decide Gazas post-war future.

The war has spurred fears of a wider escalation, with Israels northern border with Lebanon seeing near-daily exchanges of fire between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.

An Israeli strike Sunday on south Lebanon killed a Hezbollah fighter, a source close to the group told AFP, with a security official describing the target as a high-level commander who survived.

Israel said its warplanes again bombed Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon.

The White House said it was taking extremely seriously a weekend attack by Iran-backed militants using multiple ballistic missiles and rockets against a base hosting US forces in Iraq.

Dozens of such attacks in Iraq and Syria have occurred since mid-October. Most have been claimed by Iran-linked militants opposing US support for Israel, but the use of ballistic missiles marked an escalation.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday he signed a decree On the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians.

"Today we must take steps not only to strengthen the unity of Ukraine and our people, but also actions for the unity of rights and freedoms, the truth about Ukrainians, the truth about us and the truth about our history. For this purpose, today I signed a decree On the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians. This is the return of the truth about the historical past for the sake of the Ukrainian future," Zelenskyy wrote in his congratulations to Ukrainians on Unity Day, published on his official website on Monday.
Irans foreign minister is set to visit Pakistan next week, signaling efforts to mend frayed ties after the neighbours exchanged missile strikes last week, claiming to target militants in each others territories.

The Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement that envoys of both countries have also been asked to return to their posts by Jan. 26. Irans foreign ministry confirmed that Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian would visit on Monday, and said its ambassador would resume duties in Islamabad on Friday.

: PR NO. 23/2024Joint Press Statement of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran  https://t.co/4ScCGZJKPz pic.twitter.com/7ajcpnkZrz  Spokesperson MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) January 22, 2024

Pakistan had recalled its ambassador to Tehran and had not allowed his counterpart to return to Islamabad, as well as cancelling all high-level diplomatic and trade engagements. At the invitation of Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, will undertake a visit to Pakistan on 29 January 2024, a Pakistani foreign office statement said.

The strikes by the two countries, which escalated regional tensions, were the highest-profile cross-border intrusions in recent years and have raised alarm about wider instability in the region since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct. 7. The two nations have had a history of rocky ties, but the intrusions amounted to the highest level of attacks in decades. Islamabad said it hit bases of the separatist Baloch Liberation Front and Baloch Liberation Army, while Tehran said its missiles struck militants from the Jaish al Adl (JAA) group.

The militant groups operate in an area that includes Pakistans southwestern province of Balochistan and Irans southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan province. Both regions are restive, mineral-rich and largely underdeveloped. Iran said the strikes in a border village on its territory killed nine people, including four children. Pakistan said the Iranian attack had killed two children.

(With agency inputs)
Ahead of the New Hampshire primaries, the Republican presidential race is now a two-person contest between Donald Trump and Nikki Haley.

Haley is facing her former boss in an electoral battle that many believe Trump is going to win as contenders Vivek Ramaswamy and Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race. The Florida governor announced his exit on Sunday and paved the way for Donald Trump to inch one step closer to becoming the official Republican Party candidate for the US elections.

With the New Hampshire primaries less than 48 hours away, Trump thanked Ramaswamy and DeSantis for endorsing him. Vivek just came with us. And now Ron just came with us. Theyre all coming with us, Trump said.

Haley, the former US envoy to the UN and former governor of South Carolina, also appeared to celebrate the news. Its now one fella and one lady left. For now, Ill leave you with this: May the best woman win, Haley said. Both Trump and Haley are in New Hampshire campaigning ahead of the primaries.

It remains to be seen now whether or not DeSantis departure leads his supporters to back Nikki Haley or not. Haley and Trump are both locked in a intense battle in New Hampshire and Haley is hoping that independents will back her as Trump has a significant lead in polls there.

Haley tried to get support even from Trump backers in the state as she aimed not to isolate them for backing the former president.

(I am) a conservative that knows how to talk to moderates and independents and not make them feel bad, but make them feel included. Show me where Im moderate, because Im not, she said, according to a report by the Associated Press.

A CNN/University of New Hampshire poll released Sunday found that a majority of registered Republicans likely to vote in the primary  67%  said they planned to vote for Trump. But a majority of those registered as undeclared  58%  said they support Haley.

The poll, taken Tuesday through Friday, also found more registered Republicans in the state view Haley unfavourably (47%) than favorably (31%). Trump, meanwhile is viewed favourably by 76% of registered Republicans and unfavourably by just 16%.

(with inputs from the New York Times, CNN and AFP)
New temples housing revered Hindu god Lord Ram Lalla are being inaugurated across the world. New temples dedicated to Ram Lalla are being inaugurated along with the newly built Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Uttar Pradeshs Ayodhya.

Ram Mandir Inauguration Ceremony: Catch All Updates from Pran Pratishtha Ceremony HERE

The Indian diaspora across the globe are preparing for extravagant celebrations and displaying their enthusiasm and reverence ahead of the event scheduled for Monday.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony seems to have transcended national boundaries and is evolving into a worldwide celebration which has struck a chord even with natives of different nations.

Mexico

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony was performed by an American Priest with Mexican hosts & the idols brought from India. The atmosphere was filled with divine energy as the hymns & songs sung by the Indian diaspora reverberated throughout the hall. 2/2#RamMandir pic.twitter.com/1gsu4Zb086 India in Mexico (@IndEmbMexico) January 21, 2024

Mexico, the North American nation, got its first Lord Ram Temple in the city of Queretaro on Sunday. First Lord Ram temple in Mexico! On the eve of Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya, the city of Queretaro in Mexico gets the first Lord Ram temple. Queretaro also hosts the first Lord Hanuman temple in Mexico," the Indian Embassy in Mexico said in a post announcing the inauguration of the temple. It further added that people of the Indian diaspora in Mexico were present during the inauguration ceremony.

New Zealand

At New Zealands Eden Park, devotees thronged the Ram Mandir in New Zealands Auckland to observe the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Shri Ram Mandir Parivaar is joining the historic Ayodhya program in Eden Park on 21 January to celebrate the opening of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir Ayodhya. Inviting all devotees to join this event," the temple committee said in a Facebook post.

Mauritius

#Exclusive: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Ceremony: Mauritius grants two-hour break for Hindu public officials on 22nd January. Ghoorbin Bhojraj, President of Mauritius Sanatan Dharma Temples Federation speaks exclusively to CNN-News18#Mauritius #RamMandir | @siddhantvm | @Sriya_Kundu pic.twitter.com/IO1G4zp1Xj News18 (@CNNnews18) January 13, 2024

The Indian diaspora in Mauritius has united in celebration of Rams homecoming and lit diyas in all temples. Ramayan Path recitals were also held and an event where diyas will be lit in all temples have also been planned. The Mauritian government announced a two-hour special break for Hindu public officers on January 22.
A Pakistani court on Monday turned down a request of former prime minister Imran Khan seeking immediate suspension of his jail trial in a contempt case initiated by the countrys top electoral body.

In 2022, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) initiated contempt proceedings against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf: founder for allegedly using intemperate language against the chief election commissioner and the electoral watchdog.

At the outset of the petition, Lahore High Court (LHC) full bench headed by Justice Aalia Neelum asked Khans counsel about an office objection to the petition that they did not furnish certified copies of the documents.

In response, Advocate Ishtiaq A Khan said the certified copies were not provided to them; instead, they obtained copies from the website of the ECP. Justice Neelum remarked that the case cannot proceed until the objection is removed. She also asked the counsel how the jurisdiction of the LHC is established against the order of the ECP Islamabad office.

The lawyer argued that the LHC has the jurisdiction to hear the matter. The judge remarked that the petitioner should have approached the Islamabad High Court or the Rawalpindi bench of the LHC.

The counsel pointed out that the Rawalpindi bench of the LHC referred a similar case for hearing on the principal seat.

Justice Neelum noted that there were no judges available to form a bench in Rawalpindi, therefore, the matter is referred to the principal seat.

Advocate Khan argued that federal matters can also be challenged in a provincial high court. He said the ECP neither has power to punish someone for its contempt nor the jail trial falls under its jurisdiction. He said proceedings for the indictment had been commenced against the PTI founding chairman.

Justice Neelum asked the counsel about the notification of the jail trial.

The lawyer said there is no notification for the jail trial, yet the trial has been started. Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry, another member of the bench, questioned how this can be possible without a notification, as even a bird in jail cannot move without one.

Asked about the notification, a lawyer for the ECP told the full bench that the notification of the jail trial had been issued by the home department on Dec 8. The bench asked the petitioners counsel if he intends to challenge the notification of the jail trial.

The counsel expressed his willingness to challenge the notification of the jail trial and asked the bench to fix the case again.

The counsel requested the court to suspend the jail trial of the former premier as an interim relief. However, the bench turned down the request to immediately suspend the jail trial.

The court cannot suspend a notification which has not been challenged before it, the bench said and issued a notice to the ECP for submission of a reply and adjourned the hearing for a date to be fixed later.

Khan,71, who is facing multiple cases has been incarcerated at high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since August last year.
Three universities affiliated with Pakistans military were shut down over security threats in the capital Islamabad on Monday, local media reported on Monday. Pakistan is due to vote in general elections next month amid political, economic and security crises, with a rise in militant attacks targeting police and soldiers.

The National Defence University, Bahria University and Air University in Islamabad were shut down because of potential threats, an Islamabad police official told AFP on the condition of anonymity.

                 #ICTP #Islamabad pic.twitter.com/n49izwHVGm Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) January 22, 2024

The institutions are tied to Pakistans army, navy and air force, respectively. Due to security reasons all faculty and staff, except security and necessary admin staff, will work from home, said a text sent to Bahria University students and seen by the French agency.

This security threat comes as the country goes to the polls on February 8 and thousands of auxiliary security forces are set to saturate the nations capital and northwestern region abutting Afghanistan. The politically volatile nation has seen an uptick in attacks along its border regions since the Taliban surged back to power there in 2021, and has consistently claimed Kabul is giving safe haven to militants.

Last year, Pakistan witnessed 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1463 injuries from as many as 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations, according to the Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies.

The Islamic country witnessed overall fatalities including those of outlaws mark a record 6-year high, exceeding the 2018 level and highest since 2017. In 2014, the Pakistan Taliban stormed an army public school in the northwestern provincial capital of Peshawar and killed more than 150 people, the majority of them children, triggering a massive army campaign to rout the militants.

(With agency inputs)
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Monday called the conflict in Ukraine a battle between good and evil, and vowed more support for Ukraine on his first visit to the war-torn country since returning to power.

The surprise trip came as the Kremlin blamed Ukraine for a weekend attack on a Baltic gas terminal, the latest in a series of apparent Ukrainian air strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.

Tusk is among a flurry of European leaders to have visited Kyiv in recent weeks to reassure Ukraine of international support as its biggest political and military backers struggle to secure aid.

I am not ashamed to use these big words: it is here, in Ukraine, that the world front between good and evil runs, Tusk told a press conference alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Tusk said Poland stood ready to deepen its financial and military cooperation with Ukraine and promised that Warsaw would do everything in its power to help its neighbour. The security of the Polish nation and the Polish state is also at stake in this fight, he said.

Zelensky told Tusk that unity between Kyiv and Warsaw  as well as among European countries  was a strong shield against Russian efforts to divide Ukraines Western allies.

This unity  this unity of the whole of Europe  cannot be lost, he told Tusk, moments after air raid sirens had rung out over the Ukrainian capital.

Zelensky also lashed out at sceptical members of the NATO alliance holding out against Ukrainian membership of the bloc, and said his country is fighting this scepticism.

Drone Barrage

Tusks visit also aimed to address tensions between the neighbours, including protracted border blockades by Polish hauliers.

Polish truckers blocked the Ukraine border from November until last week, demanding the return of restrictions to enter the EU for Ukrainian competitors.

The EU had waived the permits system after Russia invaded in February 2022, but Polish truckers want it reintroduced, saying their earnings have been hit.

Just hours before Warsaw announced the visit, Kyiv said it had repelled a Russian assault with eight Iranian-designed attack drones. Kyiv has made gaining control of the airspace a priority for this year and urged the West to supply more air defence systems.

Ukraines air force said Russian forces launched the drones from the southern Primorsko-Akhtarsk region. It added that they had been downed by defence systems in southern and central regions of Ukraine.

There were no immediate reports of damage from falling debris.

There have been several aerial assaults on border regions of Russia that have targeted oil storage facilities. Ukrainian security sector sources have claimed responsibility for some of the attacks, but Kyiv and the Ukrainian military have remained tight-lipped on attacks inside Russia.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov however blamed Kyiv for a blaze over the weekend at the port of Ust-Luga near Saint Petersburg.

Frontline Strikes

The Kyiv regime continues to show its bestial face. They are striking civil infrastructure, people, Peskov told reporters when asked about the blaze at a natural gas terminal.

Operator Novatek had said the fire was caused by an external factor, without elaborating.

Even though the sprawling front line cutting through eastern and southern Ukraine has barely shifted in the last year, Russian forces have continued to pound towns and villages near the fighting.

AFP journalists on Monday saw the body of one person killed in a strike on the eastern Ukrainian town of Kramatorsk at around 0730 GMT. The strike rocked an industrial area on the eastern outskirts of the town in the Donetsk region, which the Kremlin says is part of Russia.

AFP reporters saw debris strewn on the street beneath an administrative building with a destroyed roof and windows blown out by the strike. The body of a man lay at the wheel of his car  its front left door open  on a street next to the damaged building.

Police ushered bystanders away, warning of a potential follow-up attack.

The regional governor said the victim was a 49-year-old man and that his 31-year-old daughter was also wounded.

Separately, the governor of the southern region of Kherson said a resident was killed by a Russian drone strike. The Kremlin says it has annexed the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected conditions presented by Hamas to end the war and release hostages that would include complete withdrawal and leaving the Palestinian outfit in power in Gaza.

I am working on this around the clock. But let it be clear: I utterly reject the Hamas monsters capitulation terms, Netanyahu said in a statement. 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 and leaving Hamas in place. Were we to agree to this  our soldiers would have fallen in vain, he added.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu:We are continuing the war on all fronts and in all sectors. We are not giving immunity to any terrorist: Not in Gaza, not in Lebanon, not in Syria and not anywhere. Whoever tries to harm us, we will harm him.https://t.co/72A627wpQA pic.twitter.com/mZe5OmyvvH Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 21, 2024

Under a deal brokered in late November by the US, 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, including a growing number of protests, to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in captivity. As Israeli planes resumed bombing Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters the Israeli leaders refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza means there is no chance for the return of the captives.

Must advance deal now

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 Netanyahus 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. US 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.

Read More: Rejecting Two-State Solution, Denying Palestinian Statehood Unacceptable: UN Chief

Netanyahus Biden Pushback

Netanyahu appeared on Saturday to push back against Bidens 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.

(With agency inputs)
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced a bill on multiple citizenship to the Verkhovna Rada.

"Today I am introducing a key bill to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine that will allow the adoption of comprehensive changes to legislation and the introduction of the institution of multiple citizenship. And it will allow all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from different countries of the world to have our citizenship. Of course, except for citizens of the aggressor country," he said in a video address on the occasion of Unity Day.

According to him, "everyone who, during periods of various waves of emigration, was forced to leave their native land, finding themselves in Europe, the United States, Canada, Asian countries, Latin America. Everyone who helps us, despite hundreds of thousands of kilometers from their native land. Foreign volunteers, those who stood up for the defense of Ukraine. Everyone who fights for the freedom of Ukraine as a homeland. And the corresponding decision is one of the elements of such freedom, one of the possibilities for realizing such a right. The right to be Ukrainian."

Zelenskyy also said he signed a decree on the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians. "This is the return of the truth about the historical past for the sake of the Ukrainian future," he said.

According to Zelenskyy, "every year, on January 22, we always mentioned two key lessons of those times. Two pointers for all generations of the Ukrainian nation. To gain your own statehood, you need to fight. To protect it, you need to unite. And the day has come when we managed to prove it."
SITTING in the lounge of her plush Glen Lorne mansion, Archbishop Eunor Gutis eyes reflect a life etched with devotion and quiet fortitude.This sprawling edifice, a testament to the legacy of her late husband, Ezekiel Guti, stands in stark contrast to the humble homestead of her youth.

For several years, she was the bedrock, the confidante, and the silent co-pilot navigating the extraordinary journey of the founder of ZAOGA FIF church, a spiritual beacon shining across 166 nations.

Speaking ahead of the launch of her biography titled Eunor Guti, she shared rare memories with one of Zimbabwes illustrious religious leaders, Ezekiel Guti.Eunor unveiled details about her book, not just as a literary creation, but as a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, the man who shaped her into the woman she is today.

Her voice, seasoned with the richness of time and experience, resonated with gratitude as she acknowledged his instrumental role in her life.For 20 years, I was his personal driver. We would go everywhere together. It is fun how he taught me to drive. He took me to an area just after Hunyani River along Harare-Masvingo Road. He explained how the foot brake works and how to accelerate and change gears, she said.

Thereafter, he let me drive the car all alone. The car veered off and fear engulfed me. We prayed. Since that time after taking my drivers license, I would take him everywhere he wanted.

Her words carrying the weight of love and loss, Eunor described how the late ZAOGA FIF leader influenced her life.There were times when I served as his personal assistant, and he would wake me up, sharing his thoughts and ideas, urging me to put them into writing, she said.

Eunor said the late preacher was a beacon of encouragement, instilling in her a thirst for knowledge and a relentless pursuit of education.My husband encouraged me to work hard and instilled in me a love for education, she reminisced, her voice tracing the contours of memory.

I began as a State registered nurse, but he sent me to various schools to pursue additional courses. With his unwavering support, I completed a bookkeeping course and obtained my degree.

The late Gutis influence transcended the realm of academics. He understood the importance of nurturing not just the mind, but also the heart and his teachings spilled over into the everyday fabric of their lives.

Eunor shared an anecdote, her eyes glistening with a playful glint.At one point, he even sent me to school to learn how to cook, although I already knew how, she chuckled.

However, he wanted me to learn how to feed a hundred people or more. His teachings extended to cultivating love, which I still carry with me today.Today, Eunors book will finally see the light of day. Its pages, brimming with personal and professional experiences, promise to be a treasure trove of insights for readers.It will be a poignant ode to her late husband, a testament to the transformative power of love and support, and a beacon of inspiration for anyone seeking to navigate the journey of personal growth and success.

Beyond the pages of the book lies a deeper purpose. Eunor said all proceeds from the book will go to the Ezekiel Junior Legacy School, a school for children with special needs in Harare.

This is a fitting tribute to both Professor Ezekiel Gutis dedication to education and his unwavering support for those facing challenges, and to Ezekiel Juniors spirit of resilience and the inspiration he brought to his family and community, she said.

Ezekiel Jr faced his challenges with such courage and grace, and he taught us all so much about love and acceptance. My husband was always passionate about helping children with special needs, and I know he would be so proud of what we are doing with the Ezekiel Junior Legacy School. Newsday
An experienced hiker who ran his own trail guide business died in New Hampshire's White Mountains amid severe weather last week. Friends who were concerned about Christopher Roma, 37, first contacted authorities Tuesday; later that night, Roma, who'd been hiking alone, managed to call 911 himself, telling dispatchers he was "very cold" before the call was dropped, the Trek reports. The waist-deep snow, strong winds, and freezing temperature made it difficult for rescuers to reach him, CBS News reports. Search and rescue teams set out around 2am Wednesday and were finally able to find Roma around 5pm that day, but he was already dead. His body was recovered Thursday morning via helicopter.

Before Roma's body was found, the state's Department of Fish and Game says in a release that "throughout the day the New Hampshire Army National Guard flew three separate flights to the Lincoln area but could never get near Mount Guyot due to low clouds and poor visibility." It was near Mount Guyot that Roma's body was eventually found, CNN reports. Roma wrote, after completing America's three longest trails, "It was then that I knew I was meant to show others the beautiful country we have right here in our own back yards and give them the chance to transform as I had over the last 5 years." He is survived by a 2-year-old son, according to the GoFundMe campaign set up for his family. (More New Hampshire stories.)
A landslide in southwestern China's mountainous Yunnan province early Monday buried 47 people and forced the evacuation of 200 more amid freezing temperatures and falling snow, the AP reports. The disaster struck just before 6am in the village of Liangshui in the northeastern part of Yunnan province. Rescue efforts were underway to find victims buried in 18 separate houses, the Zhenxiong county publicity department said. There were no immediate reports of deaths or injuries. The cause of the landslide wasn't immediately known, although photos showed snow was on the ground and continuing to fall.

Luo Dongmei, 35, was sleeping when the landslide struck, but she survived and was relocated to a school by local authorities. "I was asleep, but my brother knocked on the door and woke me up. They said there was a landslide and the bed was shaking, so they rushed upstairs and woke us up," Luo said. Luo, her husband, and their three children, along with many other residents, have been provided with food at the school but are still waiting for blankets and other protection from the cold weather, she said. Luo said she's been unable to contact her sister and aunt, who lived closer to the site of the landslide. "The only thing I can do is to wait," she said.

(More China stories.)
A nearly 50-year-old cold case surrounding three young girls stabbed and left to die in an Indiana cornfield has finally reached a conclusion, although it's one that will end without justice. In a Thursday presser , the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department announced that DNA evidence was able to help identify Thomas Edward Williams as the person who, on Aug. 19, 1975, stabbed sisters Sherri Rottler (now Rottler Trick), then 11, and 14-year-old Kathie Rottler, as well as their friend Kandice Smith, 13, in Greenfield, per the New York Times . "Looking somber, and at times with blank expressions on their faces," the three women, now in their 50s and 60s, listened as law enforcement laid out some of the details of their case.

Police say the three girls had visited a convenience store on that summer day nearly five decades ago, then decided to hitchhike to their next destinationan amusement center, per the Indianapolis Star. Williams was said to have picked them up, then driven right past their destination and into a cornfield, holding the girls at gunpoint. Police say Williams raped Rottler Trick and stabbed her in the throat and chest, while Rottler and Smith had their throats slashed. The girls all survived, however, and after Williams had left them for dead, Rottler and Smith managed to get to the road and flag down help.

Despite the women's tenacity and persistence over the years to get local and state officials to keep investigating, it was only in 2018 that Rottler hooked up with the Indianapolis police's cold-case unit. That's where DNA evidence taken from the scene decades earlier was turned into a profile, which was then sent to a Florida lab to undergo "the latest forensic technology available," per the AP. Results led to Williams' children, who agreed to offer their own DNA samples, identifying their father as the attacker.

story continues below

Even though the crime is now a wrap, Williams' victims won't see a full resolution: Police say that Williams, who earned the nickname the "Slasher" for his crime spree, died in November 1983 while in police custody in Texas, at the age of 49; it's not clear why he was in custody. Still, those who suffered at his hand are happy the case has been solved. "I stand here before you today as a survivor who has learned the true meaning of patience," Rottler said at the Thursday news conference, per the Times. "I've learned that sometimes the answer you are waiting for can take decades to get." (More Indiana stories.)
More than 30,000 professors, librarians, plumbers, electricians, and other workers at California State University, the largest public university system in the US, walked off the job Monday in a weeklong strike to demand higher wages. The stoppage across Cal State's 23 campuses comes two weeks after CSU officials ended contract negotiations with a unilateral offer of a 5% pay raise effective Jan. 31, far below the 12% hike the union is seeking. With the new semester beginning Monday, the AP reports that some classes were likely to be canceled while others could continue if certain faculty do not strike. The California Faculty Association represents roughly 29,000 workers.

They will be joined on the picket lines by 1,100 CSU skilled trades workers represented by the Teamsters Local 2010, which has also not yet reached a new contract with the university. Cal State Chancellor Mildred Garcia told journalists that the university system had sought to avoid a strike but that the union's salary demands are not viable. "We must work within our financial reality," she said. In December, CFA members staged one-day walkouts on campuses in Los Angeles, Pomona, Sacramento, and San Francisco to press for higher pay, more manageable workloads, and increased parental leave. The union says the university has money in its "flush reserve accounts" and could afford the salary increases.

Leora Freedman, CSU's vice chancellor for human resources, said Friday those reserve funds cannot be tapped for wage hikes because they are meant for times of economic uncertainty or emergencies, including wildfires or earthquakes. "We've made several offers with movement, and most recently a 15% increase that would be paid over three years, providing faculty a 5% increase each year. But the faculty union has never moved off its 12% demand for one year only," she said. The increase the union is seeking would cost the system $380 million in new recurring spending, which the university can't afford, Freedman said. The past year has seen health care professionals, Hollywood actors and writers, and auto workers picket for better pay and working conditions.

(More labor strike stories.)
Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak considers a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban possible.

"We are definitely moving towards a meeting between Zelenskyy and Orban. This will be the core task during our meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba with Szijjarto [Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary] on January 29 in Uzhgorod," he said in exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

"We agreed to spend as many hours as necessary to discuss all the issues and come to an understanding of when, where and with what potential agreements a meeting could take place between the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of Hungary," he said.

According to him, "Kuleba and I want to go over the whole range of issues. We have many of them. Hungary is our neighbor. Hungary is a member of the European Union and NATO. Therefore, we must talk and establish a constructive dialogue."
Lawyers for death row inmate Richard Glossip have told Supreme Court justices they face "a stark choice: whether the state of Oklahoma can execute a person who its chief law enforcement officer believes is wrongly convicted because of state misconduct." The court said Monday that it has agreed to take up the case of Glossip, whose execution it put on hold in May, reports CBS News . It was the third time that Glossip, who has been on death row in Oklahoma for more than 25 years, had his execution called off at the last minute. The 60-year-old's request for the Supreme Court to review his case describes his conviction as "so infected with errors that the state no longer seeks to defend it."

Glossip was convicted in 1998 of the 1997 murder of his boss, Barry Van Treese, at the Best Budget Inn in Oklahoma City. The killing was carried out by handyman Justin Sneed, a drug user who claimed Glossip had promised to pay him $10,000, the Washington Post reports. Sneed was sentenced to life in prison under a deal with prosecutors. Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma's Republican attorney general, said in a filing supporting Glossip's request for the Supreme Court to take up the case that jurors were never told about Sneed's "serious psychiatric condition." He said it would likely have affected their opinion on his credibility, especially when his "known and extensive illicit drug use" was taken into account.

After the Supreme Court blocked the May execution, an Oklahoma appeals court rejected Drummond's request to vacate the conviction and order a new trial. "That decision cannot be the final word in this case," Drummond told the Supreme Court, per the Post. "The injustice of allowing a capital sentence to be carried out where the conviction was occasioned by the government's own admitted failings would be nigh unfathomable." The AP reports that the case will be heard this fall by eight justices. Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was involved with the case at an earlier stage as an appeals court judge, has recused himself. (More Richard Glossip stories.)
Foodstuffs operates New World, Pak'nsave and Foursquare, while Woolworths operates Countdown.

"The focus of the investigations, which are in the early stages, is to consider whether certain pricing and promotional practices of the parties comply with the Fair-Trading Act," Commerce Commission's general manager of fair-trading Kirsten Mannix said.

"As these are ongoing investigations, we are unable to provide any further comment."

Under New Zealand's Fair-Trading Act, businesses can't mislead consumers with false information in advertising or about pricing.

The investigation follows Consumer NZ a long-running campaign called "Dodgy Specials".

The watchdog's campaign asks Kiwis to send in examples of unclear or misleading pricing and promotional practices. From September to the end of June, it received over 600 complaints.

As a result, Consumer NZ lodged a complaint with the Commerce Commission about potential breaches of the Fair-Trading Act at supermarkets and asked the commission to investigate the duopoly.

A spokesperson for Woolworths NZ said the Commerce Commission has been in contact regarding the pricing complaints it has received since September 2022.

"We will cooperate fully, but it is not appropriate for us to comment further," the spokesperson said.

Foodstuffs also said it is aware of the investigation and will co-operate fully.

"We take pricing and promotion accuracy and integrity very seriously every day," a Foodstuffs spokesperson said.

"We've made ongoing improvements to our pricing and promotional processes across our Co-ops and have also been implementing the Commerce Commissions final recommendations following their market study into the supermarket industry, regularly publicly reporting on our progress."

Newshub.
On Saturday, surf lifeguards in Raglan recorded 4500 beachgoers, many of them from the music festival Soundsplash, while on Sunday lifeguards recorded 3000 people at Auckland's Takapuna Beach.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) revealed they had rescued a total of 57 people on Saturday and Sunday - with 33 of them in the Northern Region.

"The surf lifeguards did a fantastic job of keeping watch over all those people. It's not an easy job, and we appreciate the teamwork that goes into making sure beachgoers return home safely," SLSNZ CEO Steve Fisher said.

"It certainly requires effort from everyone - whether they're at the water's edge, in the tower, or in the club."

SLSNZ said they are expecting busy weekends ahead, with hot temperatures and more sunshine on the way.

"There are a number of things people must do to ensure they are safe, including checking safeswim.org.nz to find a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags, which is the safest place to be," Fisher said.

He said while the beach is a great place to cool down, beachgoers must be prepared for the hot conditions, including hot sand.

Surf lifeguards at Piha dealt with multiple people who suffered burns on their feet on Saturday.

"While most of these burns were able to be dealt with relatively easily, one person did suffer deep and extensive burns which required assistance from Hato Hone St John," Fisher said.

"It's a good reminder to always have the correct gear when heading to the beach, especially on black sand beaches. Footwear is a must."

One Auckland resident, 21-year-old Zane, told Newshub he visits Piha frequently and described the temperature of black sand over the weekend as "out the gate".

"Honestly, for me, living in New Zealand and going to beaches all the time, the sand is often hot and I'm pretty used to that. But out at Piha over the weekend this was next level," he said.

"The sand's temperature was increasing as the day got hotter," he added.

"I was sprinting down the beach to the ocean because it was so hot."

He said he only lasted about 20 metres on the sand before having to jump into the water.

However, once he was in the water, he said the pain didn't go away.

"Even being in the ocean, it didn't cool down, because the sand sticks to your feet. It felt like my feet were really burning up at this point," he told Newshub.

"It was so painful. I checked my feet later at home to check if there were blisters, and there were.

"There were little blisters all over the bottom of my feet."

He recommends people wear shoes over slides as "the sand gets into your slides and on your feet".

When asked what his message was to people planning on going to the beach barefoot, he said "stay away from the sand, steer clear and keep kids away".

SLSNZ Beach and Coastal Safety Messages:

1. Know how to float

If you don't know how to float, don't go into the water. Just being able to float when you are in the water can increase your chance of survival. Floating allows you to calm yourself and keep your airways out of the water. Practice or get some lessons in the pool before you head to the beach.

2. Find the safest place to swim

Check safeswim.org.nz to find a lifeguarded beach, and always swim between the red and yellow flags.

3. If in doubt, stay out

Waves can be bigger than they look, and weather conditions can change quickly. If you feel uncomfortable about getting into the water, stay out.

4. Take care of others

Always keep children within arm's reach in or near the water. Waves can move quickly and unexpectedly and can knock kids off their feet and sweep them away.

5. Know how to get help

If someone in the water is in trouble and surf lifeguards are on patrol, let them know. If you can't see any surf lifeguards, call 111 and ask for police. If you're in the water and in trouble yourself, signal for help.
There was no immediate word from Israel on the situation at the hospital. The military spokesperson's office had no comment.

Qidra said at least 50 people were killed overnight in Khan Younis, while the sieges of medical facilities meant dozens of dead and wounded were beyond the reach of rescuers.

"The Israeli occupation is preventing ambulance vehicles from moving to recover bodies of martyrs and the wounded from western Khan Younis," he said.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said tanks had surrounded another Khan Younis hospital, al-Amal, headquarters of the rescue agency, which had lost contact with staff there.

"We are deeply worried about what is happening around our hospital," said Tommaso Della Longa, spokesperson for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

"Ambulances cannot go in or out and we cannot provide any emergency health care to people in the area.

Israel says Hamas fighters operate from in and around hospitals, which Hamas and medical staff deny.

"Hamas embeds its operation within and under hospitals and other medical facilities," said Elad Goren of COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry branch that coordinates with the Palestinians. "A particular effort led by a dedicated team has been put on making sure that civilians have access to medical care."

Residents said the bombardment from air, land and sea was the most intense in the southern sector of Gaza since the war began in October.

Video filmed from afar showed scattered civilians wandering around a ghost city, crowded with tents with abandoned laundry flapping on lines, as gunfire rattled and smoke rose into the sky.

Israel launched an offensive last week to capture Khan Younis, which it now says is the principal headquarters of the Hamas militants responsible for the Oct. 7 attacks on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies.

The newest phase of the war has brought fighting deep into the last corners of the enclave now packed with those who fled bombardment. At least 25,295 Gazans have been killed since Oct. 7, Gaza health authorities said in an update on Monday.

The majority of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are now penned into Rafah just south of Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah just north of it, crammed into public buildings and camps of tents made from plastic sheets lashed to wooden frames.

Lines of cars and donkey carts piled high with belongings pushed south as Gazans sought to flee the bombardments.

"This is the seventh time I get displaced," said Gazan Mariam Abu-Haleeb, weeping in a car surrounded by her possessions.

Ahmad Abu-Shaweesh, a boy, described having taken shelter in the Al-Aqsa University only to find the institution coming under attack.

"We hardly made it out of the university under the shelling. We didn't expect the tanks at the university's gates."

BURIED IN HOSPITAL GROUNDS

At Nasser Hospital, the only major hospital still accessible in Khan Younis and the largest still functioning in Gaza, video showed the trauma ward overwhelmed with wounded being treated on a floor splashed with blood.

Ahmed Abu Mustafa, an emergency doctor, said he hadn't slept for 30 hours and was treating 10-11 patients in an intensive care unit with four beds.

Outside, men dug graves within the hospital grounds because it was not safe to venture out to the cemetery. Authorities said 40 people were buried there.

In Brussels, Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told reporters the situation in Gaza was out of control and asked the European Union to call for a ceasefire.

"The health system has collapsed. There is no way for injured Palestinians to be treated in the Gaza strip and they are not able to leave Gaza for treatment outside."

Israel says it will not stop fighting until it annihilates Hamas. But Palestinians and some Western military experts say that objective may be unachievable given the group's diffuse structure and deep roots in Gaza, which it has ruled since 2007.

Though Israelis overwhelmingly support the war, a growing number led by relatives of the remaining hostages say the government should do more to reach a deal to free them, even if that means reining in its offensive.

About 20 relatives of hostages stormed a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem on Monday, demanding the lawmakers do more to help free their loved ones.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a group of relatives there was no truth to reports of a deal to free hostages in a ceasefire.

"I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you," Netanyahu's office quoted him as telling them.

Sami al-Zuhri, head of Hamas' political unit in exile, told Reuters on Monday Hamas was open to "all initiatives and proposals, but any agreement must be based on ending the aggression and the occupation's complete withdrawal" from Gaza.

Reuters
By Mark Trevelyan, for Reuters

The war in Ukraine has dented Russia's confidence in its conventional forces and increased the importance to Moscow of non-strategic nuclear weapons (NSNWs) as a means of deterring and defeating NATO in a potential future conflict, a leading Western think-tank said on Monday.

NSNWs include all nuclear weapons with a range of up to 5,500 km (3,400 miles), starting with tactical arms designed for use on the battlefield - as opposed to longer-range strategic nuclear weapons that Russia or the U.S. could use to strike each other's homeland.

Monday's report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) raised the question of whether Russia might be emboldened to fire a NSNW in the belief that the West lacks the resolve to deliver a nuclear response.

"The Russian perception of the lack of credible Western will to use nuclear weapons or to accept casualties in conflict further reinforces Russia's aggressive NSNW thought and doctrine," it said.

It said the logic of using a NSNW would be to escalate a conflict in a controlled fashion, "either to prevent the US and NATO from engaging, or to coerce them into war termination on Russian terms".

Moscow denies wielding nuclear threats but several of President Vladimir Putin's statements since the onset of the war in Ukraine have been interpreted as such in the West - starting on day one of the Russian invasion when he warned of "consequences that you have never faced in your history" for anyone who tried to hinder or threaten Russia.

His warnings, however, have not prevented the U.S. and its NATO allies from providing massive military aid to Ukraine including advanced weapons systems that were unthinkable at the start of the war.

Putin has resisted hawkish calls to alter Russia's stated doctrine, which allows for nuclear use in the event of "aggression against the Russian Federation with conventional weapons when the very existence of the state is threatened". But he has shifted Russia's stance on key nuclear treaties and said he is deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus.

NUCLEAR DEBATE

Western analysts and policymakers have been closely tracking a debate among Russian military experts about whether Moscow should lower its threshold for nuclear use.

Last year, for example, Russian analyst Sergei Karaganov spoke of the need to threaten nuclear strikes in Europe in order to intimidate and "sober up" Moscow's enemies.

William Alberque, author of the IISS report, said Karaganov was part of a wider discussion in Russia on the failure of its military to win the Ukraine war decisively and quickly.

"They're afraid, according to their own debates, that that has further emboldened us, so that's why this nuclear debate is happening now, where they think 'we need to do something else to super-scare the United States'."

He told reporters that Western intelligence would be able to pick up a number of signals if Russia was actually preparing to launch a NSNW.

These would include the movement of weapons from a central storage facility to an air base, and possibly conventional strikes near the planned target area in order to cripple radar and anti-missile defences.

Putin at that point would probably move to a nuclear shelter and put Russia's entire nuclear command and control system on high alert in case of a major nuclear response by the United States, he said.
Ukraine and China have a chance to find grounds for developing relations, Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak said.

"I am confident that with this country, which was Ukraine's largest trading partner, a country with which we potentially have many mutually beneficial areas, we definitely have a chance to find grounds for the development of bilateral relations," he said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

At the same time, he said "unfortunately, relations with China were left to us, like many other things, with a certain, to put it mildly, legacy, where there are many issues from the past, unresolved issues and from the point of view of the Chinese side, not quite, let's say, understandable. The Ukrainian side, the Ukrainian president are definitely ready to resolve these issues."

"Zelenskyy had two very good, very constructive conversations with Xi Jinping. I can say that I was amazed by the depth of knowledge of the Chinese leader regarding Ukraine and his warm attitude towards us. You know that he was at one time in Odesa and in its region. I believe that we have great potential with China. Once again, we just need to work," Yermak said.
The U.S. support for Ukraine has not changed, although the pre-election situation is having an impact, Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak said.

"Today we have full support from both parties of Congress. I would like to emphasize that I met with the Speaker of the House of Representatives twice in Washington. Then we held these meetings together with President Zelenskyy. We returned with positive feelings. We do not have the feeling that the support of the United States towards Ukraine has somehow changed," he told Interfax-Ukraine.

"But, of course, they [the United States] have already entered the period of presidential elections. They have their own internal phenomena, but the attitude towards us has not changed. And it seems to me that the level of support from them is still very high," he said.

Answering a question about the influence of Donald Trump's point of view on the position of Republicans, Yermak said "it is crucial to separate the election rhetoric and concrete steps. But we know exactly about the position of the Americans, and any government, any political leaders always focus on the opinion of their people. Level support from the American people is very high."
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Education Minister, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, commended the University of Bahrains efforts to incorporate new academic programmes, keep abreast of global changes, meet the labour markets requirements and national priorities, as well as benefit from international expertise and obtain accreditation.

Dr. Juma was speaking as he attended the graduation ceremony of UoBs 25th batch of students, which was held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Also present at the event held at the UoB Sakhir Campus were Higher Education Council (HEC) Board of Trustees Chairman, HE Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj, Minister of Works, HE Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, HE Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, and HE Rawan bint Najeeb Tawfiqi, Minister of Youth Affairs.

The Education Minister expressed gratitude to HRH Prince Salman for sponsoring the graduation ceremony. He noted the achievement of Bahrain under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the follow-up of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Success

The minister also congratulated the graduates and wished them success in their future life, commending the efforts of the UoB management, as well as academic and administrative staff. Dr. Juma highlighted the HECs role in modernising policies, regulations, and procedures to improve the quality of education in Bahrain.

He affirmed the councils support for all higher education institutions, both governmental and private, stressing commitment to integrating their roles to enhance the quality of academic programmes and outputs.

Pride

Dr. Fuad Mohammed Al Ansari, UoB President, expressed pride in the graduation of over 92,000 students from the UoB since its founding in 1986 and the achievements of its current students in various fields.

He noted that the past year has seen numerous first and advanced positions for students in scientific, artistic, and sports fields. He added that UoB focuses on developing human capabilities, investing in people, and caring for them to achieve national goals. This includes expanding postgraduate programmes, stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship, and providing value-added consultations to the community.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The High Civil Appeals Court upheld a ruling that required a tourism company in Bahrain to pay nearly BD100,000 in insurance premiums for one of its employees.

The court affirmed that the employees premium to the social insurance system is mandatory and enforced by law. The court rejected the companys request to obligate the employee to pay the outstanding amounts, arguing that he held the position of General Manager and was authorised to sign government documents.

The court stated that this does not negate the companys obligation to pay the premiums. Furthermore, the employers negligence in deducting the employers share of the insurance contribution when paying wages does not allow them to deduct it later in any form.

According to lawyer Taqi Hussain Taqi, the company claimed that the employee retired from his first job over 22 years ago and has joined their company since then. He continued to receive his salary and retirement pension. After leaving the company, he approached the General Organisation for Social Insurance (GOSI) to add his service period with the company to his previous work experience.

The institution responded to his requests and demanded that the company pay approximately BD100,000 towards his insurance premiums for the 22 years. The company refused to pay, claiming that the employee held the positions of General Manager and Board Member and was responsible for his own insurance.
AFP | London

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The UK is taking threats of foreign interference elections expected later this year "very seriously", the defence minister said Sunday, after a warning from a counter-terrorism official.

"Obviously, that's something that we take very seriously," Shapps told the Sky News channel.

Counter-terrorism bodies and other institutions would "be looking very carefully at that", he said.

UK counter-terrorism chief Matt Jukes said Friday that the espionage threat from foreign states - such as China, Russia and Iran - is greater now than it has been "since the days of the cold war".

He said the police had set up a new unit to counter the threats of interference ahead of the election, which is expected to be called later this year.

The unit would use powers granted by the National Security Act passed in July to make it harder for countries to spy and interfere in the political process, he said.

"We are talking about parts of the state apparatus of Iran, China and Russia," Jukes said.

A report by US software company Microsoft in November last year said Russia, Iran and China were likely to engage in sophisticated influence and interference efforts ahead of the 2024 US presidential election and in other pivotal elections worldwide.

All three countries were expected to seek to shape geopolitical outcomes in their favour amid major ongoing or potential regional conflicts, the report said.

Interference efforts were likely to take place on different online platforms than those targeted in elections in 2016 and 2020.

The counter-terrorism chief also warned that conflict in the Middle East had led to a surge in Islamist activity and that the United Kingdom was facing "a radicalisation moment".

He said there had been a 25 percent increase in information flowing through police systems about terrorism and violent extremism, "a significant increase" on "usual levels".

"We always see spikes after terrorist incidents but what we've seen since October 7 has been a spike which is higher and more sustained than ever before," Jukes said in comments to local media.

"I would describe the speed and the scale of the impact of those global events as extraordinary."
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he does not see the need to mobilize 500,000 people.

"Personally, I do not see the need to mobilize half a million people today. I suppose so. Not because I now want to answer and please someone," he said in an interview with the British Channel 4 News.

"I have not yet seen enough clear details to say that half a million must be mobilized," Zelenskyy also said.
WILMINGTON, Mass., Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. ("Liberty" or the "Company") (TSXV: SCAN) (OTCQB: LDDFF) (FRANKFURT: LD2A), a leading technology provider of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based next generation detection solutions for protecting secure locations against prohibited weapons and other threats, is pleased to announce that the HEXWAVE system will be deployed at an international airport in the Philippines.

The sale was made by the Company's international distributor and deployment is scheduled for summer of 2024. The screening will be at the forecourt of the airport to screen people entering the terminal.

Liberty's HEXWAVE product, a next generation, walkthrough, contactless threat detection system for concealed metallic and non-metallic objects, uses AI to provide automated decisions to security operators to process people at speed. The company started shipping HEXWAVE to customers in September 2023 and the backlog of systems has grown to over 30 systems.

"We continue to see an increase in demand from airports on a global basis for enhanced screening at various checkpoints and entrances," said Bill Frain, CEO of Liberty Defense. "In addition to screening for aviation workers, airports are taking advantage of HEXWAVE's mobility and scanning individuals as they enter the terminal as part of an added and layered security approach."

For updates and news, please visit the Company website to subscribe to email alerts or follow Liberty Defense on social channels.

On Behalf of Liberty Defense

Bill Frain

CEO & Director

About Liberty Defense

Liberty Defense (TSXV: SCAN, OTCQB: LDDFF, FRANKFURT: LD2A) provides multi-technology security solutions for concealed weapons detection in high volume foot traffic areas and locations requiring enhanced security such as airports, stadiums, schools, and more. Liberty's HEXWAVE product, for which the company has secured an exclusive license from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a technology transfer agreement for patents related to active 3D radar imaging technology, provides discrete, modular, and scalable protection to provide layered, stand-off detection capability of metallic and non-metallic weapons. Liberty has also recently licensed the millimeter wave-based, High-Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) body scanner and shoe scanner technologies as part of its technology portfolio. Liberty is committed to protecting communities and preserving peace of mind through superior security detection solutions. Learn more: LibertyDefense.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although Liberty believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of Liberty. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause Liberty's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others: currency fluctuations; limited business history of the parties; disruptions or changes in the credit or security markets; results of operation activities and development of projects; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general development, market and industry conditions. The parties undertake no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of their securities or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable).

Liberty cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on Liberty's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Liberty has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Liberty as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Liberty does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

SOURCE Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.

For further information: For further information about Liberty Defense, please contact: Jay Adelaar, Senior Vice President of Capital Markets, Liberty Defense, 604-809-2500, [email protected]; For sales information, please contact: Ian McNaughton, Senior Director Business Development, Liberty Defense, 613-292-3669, [email protected]
TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - As one of Canada's fastest-growing restaurant companies, Redberry Restaurants ("Redberry"), a multi-brand Restaurant Franchisee, capped off 2023 with an unprecedented year of growth; solidly positioning the company for years of upcoming expansion and amplifying it's brand partnerships and values.

REDBERRY  ONE OF CANADAS FASTEST-GROWING RESTAURANT COMPANIES  LANDS AN EXCITING NEW BRAND, BUILDS 27 NEW RESTAURANTS, HAS SIGHTS ON 600+ MORE LOCATIONS ACROSS CANADA (CNW Group/Redberry Restaurants)

The past year saw significant new store and remodel development with Burger King and Taco Bell, the signing of an exciting new brand partnership with Jersey Mike's, a renewed and expanded credit facility, and significant investment in people who are integral to Redberry's continued growth and success.

Unprecedented Restaurant Development with Burger King and Taco Bell

Redberry fueled immense growth in their Canadian restaurant footprint in 2023, adding 27 new restaurants to its portfolio and remodeling an additional 20 locations during the year. The Company's growth will continue, with plans to build almost 300 new Burger King and Taco Bell locations over the next eight years. This growth trajectory will secure Redberry's position as Canada's largest and fastest-growing restaurant Franchisee, as well as the largest Franchisee for these global brands in Canada.

Ken Otto, Redberry's CEO notes, "The passion and support we get from Burger King and Taco Bell buttresses Redberry's Canadian strategic growth partner role for both brands. Each brand, a leader in their respective categories, has huge runway coast to coast."

Redberry Awarded Canada-Wide 300-Store Area Directorship for Jersey Mike's in Canada

In 2023, Redberry made the strategic decision to sell its Pizza Hut portfolio to focus on onboarding one of North America's fastest growing and powerful brands. Redberry recently announced its appointment as Canada's Area Director for Jersey Mike's Subs, a role similar in concept to a "Master Franchisee" within other QSR concepts. This partnership has been over a year in the making and will result in approximately 300 Jersey Mike's locations being developed in the next nine years across Canada. Unit growth will be a combination of Redberry corporate owned and operated new store openings ("NSO's") complimented by 3rd-party franchisee investments and growth under Redberry's supervision.

In 2024, Redberry will acquire and remodel the two existing Canadian Jersey Mike's locations and will also build five new locations. This will kick off a multi-year partnership commitment to build 300 Jersey Mike's, developing an infrastructure across Canada through a combination of corporate and franchisee locations.

"We couldn't be more excited about our strategic development agreement with Jersey Mike's and our role in bringing this powerful and category-dominant brand to Canada," says Gary Graves, Redberry's Board Chair. "We were won over by the entire culture of Jersey Mike's and know that their quality brand will strongly resonate with Canadians. They are indeed 'a Sub Above'."

Financial Endorsement to Support Years of Accelerated Growth

To fuel this aggressive growth, Redberry renewed its bank facility in 2023. The up-sized facility will ensure sufficient capital resources to fund future development of Burger King, Taco Bell and Jersey Mike's locations. In total, this could exceed 600 new stores over the next decade.

The number of participants in Redberry's lending syndicate increased, as additional financial institutions offered to partner with the Company. This showing of support for Redberry by the financial community is in recognition of the business' past success and is a ringing endorsement of the Company's future business plans.

Executive Team Expansion

To support and lead the expected growth, the already-tenured Redberry Executive team added additional bench strength and deepened the expertise of the leadership team.

New internal appointments in 2023 included the June promotion of Robert Masson from Chief Financial Officer to Chief Development Officer. In December, Kiran Benet was promoted from Vice President of Human Resources to Chief People Officer, and Scott Lewis was promoted from VP of Burger King Operations to Burger King Brand President. External appointments included welcoming Gregory Pope to the position of Chief Financial Officer in June.

A Private Equity Sponsor's Thesis Realized

Redberry has experienced significant growth since being acquired by City Capital Ventures ("CCV") in 2019, and the thesis CCV identified at the start of its investment remains very much intact. CCV's Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Dan Kipp, believes the brightest days for the company lie ahead.

"Despite Redberry nearly doubling its unit count since our investment five years ago, we're confident that significant 'white space' for development remains in Canada," says Kipp. "Ken and Gary are disciplined capital allocators, and with the addition of the Taco Bell and Jersey Mike's brands, we see even greater development opportunities in one of the world's truly compelling markets  Canada. We have a clear line of sight to building a billion-dollar business."

People on the Move

Redberry added almost 3,500 new hires to its team in 2023. In addition, there were close to 600 internal promotions of existing team members as they advanced their career with Redberry.

The Department Leadership Team was strengthened through the onboarding and promotion of several key leaders. This includes Shoaib Merchant and Mohammad Javed, each with more than 20 years tenure, who were promoted internally to Directors of Burger King Operations. Steve Pereira was onboarded as the new Director of Taco Bell Operations.

To foster a supportive growth environment, including identification of career paths and succession for all team members, the Redberry Academy ("the Academy") launched in 2023. Created to provide a central source of learning, the Academy is focused on building real business capabilities in a scalable, open, and empowering way. Hands on training and access to Redberry "best practices" was provided to all team members.

To physically support growth, Redberry kicked off 2023 by moving the Restaurant Support Center into a modern, new office space in Mississauga, Ontario. The new office doubled Redberry corporate's previous square footage, and provides inspired workspaces where team members can gather, share ideas, and grow together.

To accommodate the rapid addition of 600 stores over the next nine years, Redberry will hire up to an additional 5,000 team members in 2024 across the three brands  Burger King, Taco Bell, Jersey Mike's  as well as in the Mississauga Restaurant Support Center.

Corporate Culture

"To set the company up for strategic growth, we recognized the need to clearly define what makes Redberry stand out in this competitive job market," says Kiran Benet, CPO, Redberry. "Redberry credits its outstanding culture for our successes and living our core values is integral to helping our team thrive."

Redberry is committed to a culture of P.R.I.D.E.: Partnership, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Empowerment.

Redberry is First Canadian Franchisee to Introduce Kiosks with Taco Bell and Burger King Brands

In 2023, Redberry introduced self-ordering kiosks in several locations, making the Company the first Burger King and Taco Bell franchisees in Canada to have them available in-store. Tech savvy millennials often prefer to control their dining experience using kiosks and apps. Kiosks tend to have a higher average check, decreased wait times, enhanced order accuracy, and labour cost savings.

Giving Back

Redberry remains steadfastly committed to the Burger King Foundation, supporting both their educational scholarships and the family emergency fund programs. Redberry held in-store initiatives, as well as corporate donations, to contribute almost half a million dollars to these outstanding causes in 2023.

"This year, Redberry was honoured to award 85 Burger King Foundation scholarships. These scholarships help the students fulfill their educational goals and dreams," says Sharron Fry, Redberry's Director of Marketing. On average, Redberry collects more than $60,000 annually in donations and adds corporate contributions up to $250,000 annually.

Fry also spearheaded the introduction of the Taco Bell Foundation scholarship program in Canada this year. The Taco Bell Foundation helps breaks down barriers to education and inspires the next generation of leaders through the provisioning of grants and scholarships to Canadian students. More than $40,000 in donations was raised in this first year of the Foundation in Canada.

Redberry also proudly supports numerous local activities in the communities they serve and is a proud supporter of Student Co-Op Work programs.

About City Capital Ventures

City Capital Ventures is a lower middle market investment partnership based in Chicago, focused on investing on behalf of their exclusive network of family offices and private market investors in consumer, commercial and service businesses. CCV invests in growth buyouts of market-leading companies with exceptional leadership and attractive niche positions where it can provide capital and expertise to accelerate and sustain growth.

About Redberry Restaurants

Founded in 2005, Redberry is one of Canada's largest restaurant Franchisees. Redberry owns and operates 180-plus restaurants across Canada, operating under the BURGER KING, Taco Bell and Jersey Mike's brands. With signed agreements to build more than 600 new restaurants, Redberry is one of Canada's fastest-growing restaurant companies. Redberry's mission and accelerated growth trajectory are made possible by its partnership with City Capital Ventures. Culturally, we have created an environment where our partners, brands, and team members can achieve the best versions of themselves. Redberry is proud to have been awarded "Restaurant Top 200: The Nation's Largest and Most Successful Franchisees" by Franchise Times for the last two years, and Burger King's Franchisee of the year for North America in 2021. We truly are architects of a different kind of restaurant company.

SOURCE Redberry Restaurants

For further information: Media Contact: Sharron Fry, Director of Marketing, Redberry Restaurants, [email protected]
UHNITED campaign demonstrates the power of people coming together to redefine healthcare

TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - For the first time in its history, University Health Network (UHN) is claiming the title "Canada's #1 hospital" by focusing on the reason it got there: its people. Launching today, the UHNITED campaign focuses on the teams working together across UHN to challenge the status quo of healthcare. It features real stories of innovation, trailblazing discoveries and lives transformed.

UHNITED campaign demonstrates the power of people coming together to redefine healthcare at the #1 hospital in Canada Post this UHNITED | Never been done is what we do (CNW Group/UHN Foundation) UHNITED we can redefine healthcare

"True to our Canadian roots, UHN has tended to be modest about our achievements, quietly going about the business of caring for our country's sickest patients while relentlessly pursuing discovery and innovation," says Dr. Kevin Smith, president and CEO of UHN. "UHN is the top hospital in the country and the #1 publicly funded hospital in the world. We should all be proud that Canada is having such a profound impact on medicine worldwide, and that we are demonstrating that it's possible to provide excellence in care to all patients, regardless of economic status. All of this is thanks to our incredible team. The UHNITED campaign is a celebration of TeamUHN coming together to transform healthcare."

UHN is confidently placing itself at the head of the pack as Canada's #1 hospital, having demonstrated its leadership in more ways than one, including:

Ranked one of the top five hospitals in the world four years in a row, also making it the world's #1 publicly funded hospital ( Toronto General Hospital/source: Newsweek/Statista)

four years in a row, also making it the ( General Hospital/source: Newsweek/Statista) Ranked as Canada's #1 research hospital for 13 consecutive years since the inception of the list by Research Infosource Inc., with a research budget of $475M in 2023

for 13 consecutive years since the inception of the list by Research Infosource Inc., with a research budget of in 2023 Serving as a referral centre for the entire country: when partner hospitals are no longer the optimal place to treat Canada's sickest patients, they rely on UHN to address patient needs from assessment and treatment to recovery

when partner hospitals are no longer the optimal place to treat sickest patients, they rely on UHN to address patient needs from assessment and treatment to recovery A prodigious track record of numerous world-first innovations designed to improve the lives of patients, including the Toronto Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion System, which has helped double the number of lung transplants at UHN and is now used in clinical practice around the world

designed to improve the lives of patients, including the Toronto Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion System, which has helped double the number of lung transplants at UHN and is now used in clinical practice around the world The first hospital in Canada to use remote deep brain stimulation technology to treat Parkinson's disease, and home to the largest neuromodulation program in Canada

to use remote deep brain stimulation technology to treat Parkinson's disease, and home to the Home to Canada's largest physical rehabilitation hospital , featuring a one-of-a-kind research lab focused on falls prevention

, featuring a one-of-a-kind research lab focused on falls prevention Developing the Medly remote management program , which provides people living with heart failure self-care guidance and access to their care team through their smartphone

, which provides people living with heart failure self-care guidance and access to their care team through their smartphone The leading and most successful transplant centre in North America , and one of the top three transplant research centres in the world

, and one of the top three transplant research centres in the world A leading partner in healthcare education, UHN is Canada's largest robotic surgery training ground via telesimulation

via telesimulation The first hospital in Canada to introduce a Chief AI Scientist role and build an AI Hub

"UHN could not be Canada's #1 hospital without the support of our community," says Julie Quenneville, CEO of UHN Foundation. "All teams at UHN are constantly trying to challenge the status quo of healthcare, and donor support is what gives them the ability to do so. When our community is UHNITED, we are not only investing in UHN's biggest and boldest ideas, but showing other Canadians that reimagining healthcare is only possible when we all come together."

With lofty fundraising goals for the years ahead, UHN Foundation aims to educate the public about the #1 hospital in Canada, the various parts of its network, and the impact of charitable donations on medical research, education and excellence in patient care at UHN.

Zulu Alpha Kilo  one of the top creative agencies in the country  developed the campaign alongside UHN and UHN Foundation. They also developed and executed the media strategy in partnership with The Aber Group. The UHNITED campaign features paid advertising that will run across digital, print and out-of-home channels, along with digital content.

About University Health Network (UHN)

University Health Network (UHN) is Canada's #1 hospital and the world's #1 publicly funded hospital. With nine sites and more than 18,500 staff, UHN consists of Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto Rehab, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and The Michener Institute of Education. Also Canada's top research hospital, the scope of research and complexity of cases at UHN have made it a national and international source for discovery, education and patient care. Flagship program areas include cardiology (Peter Munk Cardiac Centre/Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research), transplantation (Ajmera Transplant Centre), neurosciences (Krembil Brain Institute), vision (Donald K. Johnson Eye Institute), arthritis (Schroeder Arthritis Institute), surgical innovation (Sprott Department of Surgery), genomic and regenerative medicine (McEwen Stem Cell Institute), oncology, infectious diseases, social medicine (Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine) and rehabilitation medicine. University Health Network is a research hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto.

UHN.ca

About UHN Foundation

UHN Foundation is one of two fundraising arms of University Health Network (UHN), supporting Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto Rehab and The Michener Institute of Education. No one ever changed the world on their own: donor support is critical to upholding the excellence in patient care that UHN is known for, and changing the status quo of healthcare  helping recruit and train the brightest medical minds from around the world, develop new treatments for disease, and advance bold medical research.

UHNITED.ca

SOURCE UHN Foundation

For further information: For media inquiries, please contact: Olivia Monardo, Public Relations Officer, [email protected], 416-669-0638
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy considers Donald Trump's statements that he can stop the war in 24 hours dangerous.

"[Trump] is going to make decisions on his own, without If he says this publicly, that's a little scary," Zelenskyy said in an interview with the British Channel 4 News.

"This suggests that if his idea, which no one has heard, does not work for our people, then he will do everything to convey this idea anyway. This worries me a little," he said.

According to Zelenskyy, "one person is not able to win. And if he talks about himself, then the question arises, at the expense of whom?"

"Donald Trump, I invite you to Ukraine, to Kyiv. If you can stop the war during 24 hours, I think it will be enough to come," Zelenskyy said.








Ex-presidential photographer, Bayo Omoboriowo, on Monday, dismissed long held rumours that former President Muhammadu Buhari became the Jibrin of Sudan after his health battle in 2017.





In an interview with Channels Television, Omoboriowo described the period of the ex-presidents health as very challenging.





He said, Former President Buhari is a man of grace. His recovery was just grace. He is not Jibrin of Sudan.





Omoboriowo said there was no marked difference between when Buhari fell ill in 2017 and when he recovered.





Recall that the former President fell ill in 2017 and was flown to the UK.





During his long stay abroad, rumours had it that he was dead and had been replaced with a clone named Jibrin from Sudan.





This claim was publicized by the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi kanu.





Buhari, Nigerias democratically elected President from May 2015 to May 2023 had dismissed the rumours.





The former special adviser on Media and Publicity to the president then, Femi Adesina had also described the rumour of a Buhari clone as ridiculous.





The revelations are cantained in Adesinas book titled Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity(2015-2002) which was presented in Abuja last saturday.




Femi Adesina, the former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that the rumour of a clone  Jubril of Sudan  of his ex-principal was ridiculous.





Adesina revealed this, among others in his book, titled, Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015  2023), which was presented in Abuja last Tuesday.





The former presidential aide stated that upon his (Buhari) return from a foreign medical trip on August 19, 2021, rumour began to spread that the erstwhile President wasnt the real tall, lanky, Daura-born ex-military leader, but rather it was his clone called Jubril of Sudan.





Adesina recalled that the day the President returned, he (Adesina) had earlier attended the wedding of the daughter of a former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin.





For such outings, you needed the full Yoruba agbada, with cap to match. That was what I wore. From church and reception, I went straight to the airport, as the President was billed to land about 4 p.m. And when he did, we formed the usual reception line, Adesina wrote.





The former aide stated that Buhari shook hands with everyone, and when it got to his turn, the ex-military leader complimented him, saying, Adesina, this is the best I have seen you dressed, and they laughed at the joke as Buhari was fond of wisecracks.





Adesina added, When later, some people began to spread unfounded stories that the man that returned to the country on that August 19 was not the real Buhari, but a clone, named Jubril of Sudan, I just found it preposterous, even otiose.





He queried that if the person was a certain Jubril, how did he know my name, and commenting on my dressing?





Pathetic people. Pitiable, he added.





Adesina further stated that Buhari was lovable among the people as this was evident when he rode through the airport to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.





He added that with the warm reception shown to Buhari on that day, if he had contested for office again, he would win.





The ride from Murtala Muhammed Airport to the Presidential Villa on that day was what showed me that the President would win an election if he ran again.





Many times, the crowd was so uncontrollable that they seized the road and forced the convoy to a crawl. They were simply overjoyed to have their President back, a man they loved so much the book read.





Adesina also revealed in his book how Buhari resisted to sack the embattled governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele over speculations on his presidential ambition in the past 2023 general election.





Likewise, Buhari was quoted to have said he preferred extraditing the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, to face trial in Nigeria rather than killing him.





According to the book, Buhari said extraditing Kanu to Nigeria was a better option compared to mobilising resources to eliminate him.




The Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Anambra State Command, Adeoye Irelewuyi, has issued a stern warning to motorists against answering and making phone calls while driving.





Irelewuyi, who spoke through the Corps Acting Public Education Officer, Margret Onabe, said that making use of phones on the steering wheel is not only dangerous but a violation of traffic laws.





According to him, road accidents could be linked to usage of mobile phones on the steering.





He urged motorists to desist from the act.





The Corps Commander admonished motorists to always stop their cars and park by the side to make or answer calls, adding that any gadget capable of distracting drivers should not be used while driving.





He added that there was a noticeable reduction in the rate of motor accidents during the last Yuletide when compared to previous years, attributing the development to the committed efforts of the Command in ensuring that motorists obey traffic rules.





Irelewuyi disclosed that the Command has been carrying out public enlightenment programmes on radio, and visiting parks regularly to ensure that operators comply with the rules and regulations.




The establishment of a security outfit by the Fulani socio-cultural group, Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, has been described by the Middle Belt Forum, MBF, as an invitation to anarchy.





On Wednesday, the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore announced the formation of a national security outfit in Nasarawa State, which it claimed would assist security agencies in curbing crimes such as cattle rustling, kidnapping and banditry in the country.





The association also asked the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take proactive measures to protect Fulani pastoralists across the country from ethnic militias and state-sponsored vigilantes.





The National President of the Middle Belt Forum, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, in a statement, said it was unfortunate that a group like Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore could come up with such a security idea when it was being classified as an aggressor.





According to Pogu, the move was an invitation to anarchy, saying that it was a misnomer for such a group to form a vigilance group in areas it had no control over, adding that the people of the Middle Belt would equally come up with their own fashion of security group to protect themselves.





He assured, The Middle Belt will come up with its own; it is an open thing now; each group should come up with its own vigilante. We will also create our own, and when they attack, we will know what to do.





He further explained that it is a case of what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.





He stated that it was clear now that Nigeria had denied its citizens the opportunity to defend themselves.





If the government wants to solve the problems, lets have state police to stop this nonsense, he insisted.





Pogu lamented that the government had failed in its responsibility to protect the citizens, saying that the governments posture had further emboldened criminals to intensify their nefarious activities against law-abiding citizens.





He stressed that what Miyetti Allah had done was an invitation to the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Afenifere, Ohanaeze and others to establish their own.




Aloy Ejimakor, the Special Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, has dragged the Nigerian Government before the British House of Lords over the detention and prosecution of the agitator.





Ejimakor, in a petition to the British House of Lords, called for intervention in the torture, rendition and incarceration of Kanu by the Nigerian Government.





He urged the British Parliament to sanction the Nigerian Government if it fails to release Kanu unconditionally and repatriate him to the United Kingdom, UK.





The Special Counsel made the appeals in a petition to the International Relations and Defence Committee of the House of Lords.





Ejimakor, in the petition, stressed that Kanu is a British citizen.





Parts of the petition, signed by Ejimakor, reads: Additionally, Mr Kanu is gravely ill with three life-threatening conditions, namely a serious heart condition, hypertension and low potassium levels. All of these serious conditions demand specialist medical care and interventions that are not available at the facility where he is being detained or even in Nigeria as a whole. And the Government of Nigeria (GON) is fully aware of this.





I. Urgently intervene with His Majestys Government, strongly urging it to promptly make demands on the GON to unconditionally release Mr Kanu from detention and repatriate him to the United Kingdom; and to levy sanctions against the GON if it fails to comply within a reasonable time. It is pertinent to stress the point that extraordinary rendition inherently destroys every prospect for a fair trial in the jurisdiction that levied the rendition. And UK courts have held in a plethora of cases that extraordinary rendition creates a barrier to the trial of a suspect.





This was precisely the reason the United Kingdom had, in 1984, denied Nigerias formal application to extradite Umaru Dikko after his aborted extraordinary rendition from the UK. In our humble view, Mr Kanus is no different, except that his case bears more equities because of his British nationality, as compared to Mr Dikko who was not a British citizen. Additionally, extraordinary rendition is  by itself  a form of torture that should shock the conscience of the Parliament, especially when considered together with the actual physical torture levied on Mr Kanu by agents of the GON in Kenya and the solitary confinement to which Mr Kanu has been subjected to in Nigeria since June 2021. It is settled that torturing a British citizen overseas triggers the universal criminal jurisdiction of British courts.





In alternative to above, Your Lordships are prayed to promptly intervene with His Majestys Government, strongly urging it to make binding proposals to the GON to agree to conduct Mr Kanus trial in the United Kingdom. In addition to the fact that all the charges leveled against Mr Kanu by the GON are alleged to have been committed by him from British soil, there are other legal reasons why Mr Kanu should be tried in the UK rather than Nigeria. These reasons include the following:





Nationality and Citizenship: Mr Kanu is a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United Kingdom. As a British citizen, he has the right to seek legal protections from the UK government, which includes demanding that the UK be the venue for his trial.





Human Rights Concerns: There are genuine concerns about the human rights situation and the treatment of defendants in Nigeria. Given Mr Kanus British citizenship, he would be more likely to receive a fair trial and be treated in accordance with international human rights standards if the trial is held in the UK.





Diplomatic Considerations: The UK and Nigeria have a history of good diplomatic relations. Thus, the UK should have an interest in ensuring that one of its citizens receives fair treatment in a criminal trial, not conducted in Nigeria but in the UK.





Security and Safety: We have real concerns about the security and safety of Mr Kanu, including particularly potential threats to his life in Nigeria, evidenced by GONs military operations against Mr Kanu in 2017, the extraordinary rendition in 2021, the physical torture in Kenya and the persistent solitary confinement in Nigeria.





Fair Trial/Political Interference: There are concerns about political interference in the legal process in Nigeria. A trial in the UK should mitigate these concerns, as well as ensure that the legal proceedings are fair and free from undue political influence. There is also every likelihood (as has happened before) that the GON will not abide by acquittal of Mr Kanu by a Nigerian court.





In alternative to Paragraph 2 above but for the same reasons stated therein, the Parliament may intervene with His Majestys Government, urging it to make binding proposals to the GON to agree to conduct Mr Kanus trial in a mutually agreed neutral third country (other than Nigeria and the UK), as was done in the Lockerbie trial of Libyan nationals.





Esteemed Members of House of Lords, our decision to lay this Petition before you was propelled by the undue levity with which His Majestys Government has so far handled this matter. Mr Kanu believes that he has not been accorded the full legal and diplomatic protections he is entitled to as a bonafide British subject. We trust therefore that this Petition will be given the most urgent and expeditious attention and due considerations by the House of Lords.
URCS Cherkasy regional organization provides temporarily displaced persons with equipment for heating houses without gas

Representatives of Cherkasy regional organization of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) continue to donate potbelly stoves to internally displaced persons families for heating their homes as part of the Winter Preparation Strategy project.

"Every week, a team of specialists and volunteers visits one of the districts of Cherkasy region to provide support  potbelly stoves with additional safety kits (a fire extinguisher, an axe and a smoke alarm) for heating the houses of internally displaced families," the society said on Facebook on Monday.

First of all, potbelly stoves are provided to households that do not have gas supply.

"Recently, the team provided potbelly stoves in the town of Zolotonosha to 40 families of the Zolotonosha community," the society said.

The direction "Strategy of preparation for the winter period" is being implemented by URCS Cherkasy regional organization with the support of the Canadian Red Cross.




A fresh political crisis seems to be brewing in Rivers State following the heavy insults rained on Governor Siminalayi Fubara by the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state, Samuel Nwanosike.





In a viral video posted on his official X handle, the council chairman, who was addressing his supporters at Omerelu Community, accused Fubara of being naive.





Recall that Fubara and his predecessor who is currently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, fell out in 2023 over a battle of supremacy in the state.





The LG Chairman, who is loyal to Wike, alleged that Fubara had not achieved anything as governor of the state since he took over the mantle of leadership from Wike on May 29, 2023.





He said, Any day the likes of Chijioke sent by Fubara insults Wike, Ill insult Fubara, so today, Fubara is a foolish Governor, hes not a mumu Governor but a foolish Governor because since he took office in May 29th, he has done nothing for Rivers people.





Nwanosike further maintained that the allegation that Wike wanted to pocket Rivers State is far from the truth, saying Fubara is very naive and doesnt know what governance is all about. If he knows what governance is all about, by now, he would have been visiting Rivers State by the local government.





Go and look at Igirita roundabout by Igirita market by Eleka Road; deathtrap, cant move. Kidnapping everywhere in Rivers State and you say youre a Governor.




The Rivers State Police Command has said that three of its officers who kidnapped and extorted the sum of $3,000 from two men would face an orderly room trial and query respectively.





The spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, who disclosed this while parading the suspects before newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday, said the action is part of internal disciplinary measures taken against operatives involved in unlawful activities.





Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, also said the money equivalent to N4.2 million have been recovered and handed over to the owners.





Recall that the policemen, including two Assistant Superintendents of Police and an Inspector, had whisked their unsuspecting victims to three states before dispossessing them of the said amount, equivalent to N4.2 million.





She stated, The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the public that it has taken decisive action in response to a distressing incident involving the unlawful abduction and extortion of two young men by three of our officers, ASP Doubara Edonyabo, ASP Talent Mungo, and Inspector Odey Michael.





The victims were arrested in Abia State, taken to Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states, respectively for alleged fraud by yet-to-be-seen complainants.





They were extorted of the sum of $3,000, equivalent to N4.2 million. Immediate steps were taken to apprehend the officers involved, and a thorough investigation was conducted to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.





The extorted money was recovered and released to the victims on 18th January 2024.





Following a comprehensive inquiry, it has been established that the actions of the officers in question were in clear violation of the law and the ethical standards expected of members of the Nigeria Police Force.





As a result, appropriate disciplinary measures are being taken to address this grave misconduct.





Continuing, the state police image maker noted that in response to these regrettable events, the two officers have been issued with official queries, and the inspector has been slated for an orderly room trial.





Additionally, to demonstrate our commitment to transparency and accountability, the Rivers State Police Command has decided to publicly parade the officers before the press to underscore the seriousness with which we view this matter.





While noting that the command is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability, Iringe-Koko said the behaviour of the errant officers was unacceptable and did not represent the values and principles of the police.





She added, We deeply regret the negative impact that such misconduct may have on the reputation of the Rivers State Command and the Nigeria Police Force in general.





It is important to emphasise that the actions of a few individuals should not overshadow the dedication and sacrifice of the vast majority of our officers who serve with honour and distinction.





The Inspector General of Police has consistently articulated a zero-tolerance stance against corruption and misconduct within the force, and this incident does not reflect the aspirations of the Nigeria Police Force as a whole.





The Rivers State Police Command reassures the public that we remain resolute in our commitment to serving and protecting the community with the utmost professionalism and integrity.





She urged the public to continue to have faith in the Nigeria Police Force as they strive to maintain the trust and confidence of the citizens they swore to serve.




Troops of the Nigerian military killed 43 terrorists and arrested 76 others in the South-South geopolitical zone of the country.





The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, disclosed this in statement made available to newsmen.





According to him, the troops also arrested 29 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 27 kidnapped hostages.





The military spokesman added that troops recovered 81 assorted weapons and 2,150 assorted ammunition.





The breakdown of the recovered arms is as follows: One NSVT AA gun, one GPMG, one PKMG, 36 AK47 rifles, one RPG 7 tube, 2 AGL bombs, 4 pump action guns, 4 locally fabricated guns, 8 dane guns, 3 shotguns, one cut-to-short dane gun, 2 beretta pistols, one damaged AK47 rifle, 2 RPG chargers, wooden stock of AK47 rifles, LMG magazine, 8 bandoliers and 42 magazines.





Others are: 272 belted rounds of 7.62 x 51mm, 268 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm, 557 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm special, 1000 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 3 rounds of 12.7 x 108mm, 6 rounds of 9mm ammo, one AA ammo, 74 live cartridges, empty cases of 7.62mm special ammo, 2 vehicles, 25 motorcycles, 21 mobile phones, 6 baofeng radios and the sum of N1,266,920.00 only amongst other items.





Buba further disclosed that troops in the Niger Delta area discovered and destroyed 7 dugout pits, 13 boats, 23 storage tanks, 2 barges and 4 vehicles.





Other items recovered include 15 cooking ovens, 2 pump machines and 16 illegal refining sites. Troops recovered 139,045 litres of stolen crude oil, 25,115 litres of illegally refined AGO and 5,200 litres of DPK.





The Armed Forces will always be mindful of the threat by kidnapping gangs and terrorists across the country, he said.





Buba said the military will continually review internal processes in order to deal with identified threats.
Joes Crab Shack ended 2023 with an abrupt closure in New Jersey.

The chain of seafood restaurants shuttered its Clifton location on Dec. 31.

It was located at 405 Allwood Rd. in The Promenade Shops at Clifton.

Due to a natural lease expiration, Joes Crab Shack Clifton restaurant closed on December 31, 2023, Terry Turney, COO of Joes Crab Shack, told NJ Advance Media. We value our employees and their dedication to the company and are working to relocate them to our nearby sister properties. We thank the community for the many years of support.

Chatter in a private Facebook group is how NJ Advance Media first heard about the closure. Local patrons were confused by the abrupt closure and trying to decipher what caused the closing on the social media platform.

The Clifton restaurant had been facing financial challenges since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Owners of the location filed a lawsuit against the shopping complexs ownership group back in 2020.

Joes Crab Shacks lone New Jersey restaurant is located in Deptford.

The seafood chain is popular for its seafood offerings. The menu consists of seafood platters, pasta, lobster, crab legs, shrimp, fish, steak and po boy sandwiches.

Joes Crab Shack operates 30 locations nationwide.

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Christopher Burch can be reached at cburch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter: @SwishBurch. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips/
Zach Rosner was 12 when he saw a man on the street without a coat in the freezing cold during a class trip to Washington five years ago

It was the first time hed seen the effects of homelessness, and it inspired him to act.

I remember that freezing day in January, said Rosner, 17, of Short Hills. I saw a man without warm clothes at the Lincoln Memorial, and the thought of that man always stuck with me. I knew I had to do something.
An 80-year-old driver died Saturday after her vehicle ran off the road in Ocean County, police said.

Officers responded to the crash shortly after 9 p.m. at the intersection of New Mexico Drive and Washington Lane in the Whiting section of Manchester. The driver, Patricia Ford, of Whiting, was found in a small SUV that had crashed into a tree, the Manchester Township Police Department said in a statement.

When police found Ford, she was not wearing a seatbelt, officials said. She was pronounced dead a short time later at Community Medical Center.

An investigation into the crash found that the SUV was traveling on Washington Lane when it ran a stop sign and drove up a curb before hitting a fence and a tree, authorities said.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
UPDATE: The missing Paterson woman was found by police on Monday

The family of a Passaic County woman has asked the public to help find her, nearly a week after she went missing after reporting to police she was being followed.

The woman was last seen between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. on Jan. 16 as she left Paterson City Hall on Market Street, according to her father.

Her car was found abandoned about a block from the Paterson Police Department on Broadway, where she had gone earlier in the day to report someone was following her, the womans family said.

In between the police department and city hall visits, security cameras picked up the woman standing outside Passaic County Community College, where she once attended but was no longer enrolled.

She was wearing Uggs. There was snow on the ground, and it snowed again on Friday, her father told NJ Advance Media on Monday.

Shes without her car, her cellphone goes straight to voicemail, shes not answering texts, and she hasnt used her debit card since that day. It doesnt make much sense, her father said.

Her family said the womans debit card was last used to withdraw $20 from a Bank of America on Main Street in Paterson at about 4 p.m. on the day she went missing. Her father said he has since sent her money via Zelle, but the cash has not been withdrawn from he account.

The family said theyve been working with Paterson police to obtain security video of the woman in the hours before she went missing.

Were worried. Our minds our going nonstop, her father said.

The woman has brown hair, brown eyes, is 5-feet, 2-inches tall and weighs about 125 pounds. She has nose piercings, a rose tattoo on her left hand, and a mole on the tip of her nose.

Her family said she is a self-employed cosmetologist specializing in lashes. Anyone with information is asked to call Paterson police at 973-321-1123.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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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%.
The California State Senate supported the establishment of a sister state relationship with Lviv region, Head of Lviv Regional Military Administration Maksym Kozytsky said.

"37 votes "Yes", 0  "No". The California State Senate supported the establishment of a sister state relationship with Lviv region!" he said on his Telegram channel.

According to Kozytsky, the resolution will promote mutually beneficial educational, economic and cultural exchanges between Lviv region and California.

"Special thanks to representatives of Ukrainian communities in California, including their merit, that such a historic decision was made unprecedentedly quickly," he added.
Theres new defense pact from Poland  Zelenskyy on outcome of negotiations with Tusk

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the talks with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv very productive.

Today, we had very productive talks in Kyiv with Donald Tusk about all aspects of Ukrainian-Polish bilateral relations, the President of Ukraine said on the Telegram channel Monday.

"There is a new Polish defense package. We appreciate such constant help. There is a new form of our cooperation for the sake of a larger scale of arms purchases for Ukrainian needs  this is a Polish loan for Ukraine," he said.

"Today we discussed with Mr. Prime Minister the possibilities of future joint production of weapons. Thank you for supporting Ukraine!" Zelenskyy also wrote.

"I just wanted to welcome you on this special day, a very symbolic day for us, and we are grateful that Poland, your society, has always been close to Ukrainians since the first days of a full-scale war," Zelenskyy said.

On Monday, Ukraine celebrates the Day of Unity.

"It was absolutely obvious and natural for me that I should first visit Kyiv in my new role as Prime Minister of Poland, for many reasons, and not just because of our solidarity and friendship," Tusk said.

"This is also my role today here in Kyiv, in Europe, in my country, to explain to all people and all leaders that the whole free world should help Ukraine in all aspects, because this is our common interest, not just a moral duty," he added.
There was an increase in Russian assaults on the front line in Ukraine, which, however, led to increased losses, the UK Ministry of Defense said referring to the UK Defense Intelligence update.

"Additional data from the Ukrainian General Staff comparing the 14-18 January 2024 period with the previous five-day period supports this uptick in Russian assaults. Over these five-day periods the number of military vehicle losses by Russia increased by 88 per cent and the number of Russian tank losses increased by 95 per cent," it said on X Social Network on January 21.

This data points towards a steady increase in the intensity of Russian offensive activity in Ukraine. A key enabler for this is highly likely the freezing ground conditions, which allows cross=country movement of armored vehicles.
Residents of a North Devon village who petitioned against social housing are to be updated on changes to a development which will now offer affordable homes to buy.

North Devon councillor Peter Jones (Ind, Witheridge) has called for a public meeting to discuss a scheme called Willow Heights at Witheridge by Allison Homes, which has already built the first phase.

Almost a quarter of people in the village signed a petition over their fears that phase two, originally intended to be a mix of 155 open market and social housing, was now to be exclusively social rental properties with no opportunity for residents to upsize or downsize there.

Cllr Jones said he has now been told by the developers that the mix will be rented and shared ownership which will give local people a chance to get on the housing ladder.

He is due to meet with senior council officers and the developers to make sure a public meeting would happen.

Shared ownership homes means people who cannot afford the whole deposit and mortgage payments can buy a share of the property and pay rent to a landlord on the rest. Over time they can buy the landlord out and later sell their home on the open market.

Cllr Jones said this is a significant change in the application and it should go back to the planning authority, but at the very least the developers, housing provider and North Devon Council should talk to the community.

This is a big development for our village and people are concerned over what exactly it is going to be. Residents felt strongly enough to start a petition so its important they are kept informed of any changes.

Allison Homes bosses said in a letter to Cllr Jones that they hoped the proposal would be seen in a more positive light, ensuring that all these homes were available to a range of people in need of housing, including local residents. The socially rented homes would be available to people on the North Devon local priority housing list, they said.

In a statement, the company said: We are committed to building high-quality homes at Willow Heights with a mixture of tenures. This is in accordance with the planning consent granted, blending affordable housing with homes for sale in line with local plan policy.

It said it had received offers from multiple housing providers and would make a decision in the spring.

It should be noted, L&G was the chosen affordable housing provider in phase one, but this does not mean they will automatically be chosen for phase two.

It is always our intention to positively engage with the local community and this will continue whilst progressing with construction works at Willow Heights.

North Devon Council said the developer would not need to materially alter the original planning if it decided to offer a mix of tenures, and might only require minor amendments to an existing Section 106 agreement to deliver this.
When TCi selected Family Compass as their charity for 2023, they embarked on a journey that exceeded all expectations to raise almost 12,500.

The construction firm aimed to generate crucial funds for Family Compass, enabling them to provide essential support to children and young families facing mental health challenges.

TCi (GB) Ltd is a leading provider of commercial construction and interiors, offering services in office and welfare furniture supply and installation.

Megan Barnes, the coordinator for the fundraising efforts, expressed gratitude for the outstanding dedication of the TCi team. Activities ranged from dress-down Fridays to sporting sweepstakes, with the board of directors leading the charge in epic challenges.

Chairman Adrian Sealey and managing director Alex Perkis conquered the heights of Kilimanjaro, while project directors Callum Bowden and Chris Pyne faced a demanding 15km Tough Mudder. Other feats included a skydive by financial director Alex Slee and a 36km swim-run endurance challenge around the North Devon coastline by construction director Jim Capron.

Additional fundraising initiatives, such as a team entry into the Croyde Triathlon, a meat raffle, and a bicycle repair workshop, contributed to the overall success. Marketing and sustainability manager Ben Gibbs cycled to Spain and even a sweepstake on a staff member's baby added to the diverse activities.

The TCi team not only met but surpassed their original target of 10,000, raising an impressive 12,498.95. Jim Capron, construction director and coastal athlete, expressed immense pride in everyone involved, acknowledging the support from supply chain partners, clients, industry colleagues and families.

Beyond monetary contributions, TCi provided support in various forms, including IT and office equipment, furniture donations, and assistance with refurbishing Family Compass's headquarters at the former Barnstaple Town Station. Staff also contributed 70 Easter eggs and 80 Christmas chocolate selection boxes for distribution to children using the service.

Family Compass CEO and co-founder, Keda Johnstone, expressed gratitude for TCi's overwhelming support, highlighting the positive impact on children's lives. The funds raised by TCi significantly contributed to the Inhale/Exhale community project, supporting nearly a hundred local families.

Megan concluded by urging continued support for Family Compass. In 2024, TCi has committed to sponsoring local veteran para-athlete Jon White as he strives to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympic games, raising funds for his patronage of the Royal Marines Charity.
Napoleon, OH (43545)

Today

Variable clouds with snow showers. Temps nearly steady in the mid to upper 30s. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 50%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will become overcast overnight. A few flurries are possible. Low 27F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph.
Taurus Systems ready to replenish Germany's reserves if missiles are supplied to Ukraine - company head

The German company Taurus Systems GmbH is ready to quickly replenish Germanys stock of long-range missiles if they are delivered to Ukraine, head of the company Joachim Knopf said.

We can quickly begin new production of Taurus, platform integration and modification of existing missiles. The prerequisite for this is an order from the client, he wrote on the social network X.

According to him, quickly replenishing German stocks of Taurus missiles is not a problem.

As reported, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that negotiations on the provision of long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine by Germany are ongoing.
Filmmaker Yance Ford was in a Sundance haze when he took a meeting with Netflix following the premiere of Strong Island in 2017. The streamer was still somewhat new in the original documentary space at that point, but had made several big splashes with docs as different as The Square, about the Egyptian revolution, and  What Happened, Miss Simone?  Liz Garbus portrait of Nina Simone, both of which were nominated for Oscars.

Strong Island would go on to get an Oscar nomination, too, as would its Sundance and Netflix peer Icarus, which would win best documentary in 2018. But Strong Island was a different kind of film, a wrenching and deeply personal investigation into the 1992 murder of his brother and the failures of the justice system. When Ford, a first-time filmmaker, walked out of the meeting, he asked his producer if that had gone as well as he thought. He was assured it had.

There was no explaining the film to them, Ford said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. Netflix understood what Strong Island was doing and what it could say to a big, broad audience.

Ten years after The Square, an acquisition that put Netflix documentaries on the map, the streamer is back at the 40th Sundance Film Festival with an eye towards acquisitions and two very different originals. Fords latest, Power, an inquiry into the evolution of policing in America that had its world premiere Thursday night in Park City, Utah. Bao Nguyens The Greatest Night in Pop, about the making of the charity anthem We Are The World, debuts Friday before streaming on Jan. 29.

I think that Netflix is largely responsible for the documentary landscape that exists today, Ford said. It was responsible for giving the public access to films like mine.

With Power, which looks at policing from 30,000 feet, he said, I wasnt particularly interested in the debate about defund the police. I wasnt particularly interested in the rhetoric of Back the Blue. What I was interested in is this thing that I saw at play which was just this manifestation of the power of the state being exercised over people.

Adam Del Deo, Netflix's vice president of documentary, joined the company around the time of The Square and commissioning What Happened, Miss Simone?, working with veteran Lisa Nishimura.

We really were the new kids on the block trying to persuade filmmakers that having the reach of the platform was something that was really important, Del Deo said. The mission when I began was to be the premiere storyteller in the doc space. That was the case back in the DVD days and continues to be the objective today.

In the 10 years since, the Netflix audience has grown from around 37 million members to over 250 million worldwide and the appetite for documentaries has only intensified. Its allowed for experimentation in commissions and acquisitions in both series and features, including Chefs Table, Making a Murderer, the Emmy winning Wild Wild Country, the Oscar winning  American Factory  and the Oscar nominated  Crip Camp. 

Many of those successes started in some form at Sundance, the festival that launched doc classics like Hoop Dreams and Paradise Lost before the so-called golden age of documentary from the past several years. They dont have one specific type of movie theyre after  in fact, theyve found their members seek out diversity of genre and thus its a matter of finding best in class storytelling, he said, whether thats in sports, pop culture, nature, current events or anything else.

Its really a question of curation of titles that really cut through, that are going to feel fresh and drive conversation and create cultural moments around the world, Del Deo said.

What Happened, Miss Simone? was the companys first commissioned documentary and Garbus remembers being excited but also a little wary as they were untested. Then she met Del Deo who became her trusted man on the ground while making the film, which played on the festivals opening night in 2015, with a performance by John Legend.

One of the most exciting things was being on Twitter the moment the filmed dropped on Netflix, seeing reactions from Brazil, from France, and seeing the world light up at once, Garbus said. It was thrilling. You really felt like you were in a global moment.

Miss Simone was also the beginning of a long friendship and professional partnership between Garbus and Del Deo that continued through Harry & Meghan and on through Power, which Garbus executive produced.

While Nishimura exited the company last year, Del Deo is excited about the future of their original documentaries  including several recent festival acquisitions like the Jon Batiste film American Symphony (out of Telluride), Black Barbie (out of SXSW) and Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa (out of the Toronto Film Festival)  as well as their Sundance titles and those they havent discovered yet.

The Greatest Night in Pop was produced by Lionel Richie and features never before seen footage from the making of that memorable charity song that started with Harry Belafonte and brought together performers like Bruce Springsteen, Smokey Robinson, Cyndi Lauper, Dionne Warwick and Huey Lewis. It is sure to be a popular crowd-pleaser with one of those big premieres in the festivals biggest venue, the Eccles, where Miss Simone also started.

I think it's going to put a lot of smiles on people, Del Deo said. I cannot wait for people to see this film.

Though Nguyen was only around 2 when the song came out in 1985, its taken on greater meaning over the years. It was one of the records that his parents, Vietnamese refugees, would often play. And then recently, visiting his mother in Vietnam, his taxi driver had it playing in his car and its timeless, global resonance set in.

It was such an unlikely group of people who came together in one night. That sense of pressure, I felt was quite cinematic, Nguyen said. Its great to be able to share this film to the world because of how much the song touched people all around the world.
CEDAR LAKE  A man was taken into custody Sunday after gunshots were heard coming from his moving vehicle, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

DNR Officer Tyler Brock was reportedly patrolling near the south side of Cedar Lake when he heard several gunshots coming from a moving vehicle as it passed his location."

Illinois man accused of molesting Portage girl, collecting images, is now at Porter County jail VALPARAISO  A 25-year-old Illinois man, charged with having sex with a 12-year-old Portage girl and receiving 250 explicit photos and videos 

"Officer Brock conducted a traffic stop and took the suspect into custody without further incident," according to the DNR.

"The driver was found to be experiencing a mental health crisis and was transported for medical treatment," officials said.

Smartphone lives up to its name by automatically calling for help after driver rolls his vehicle Police determined the man was driving south on 300 West when he veered to the west near a field entrance and lost control of his vehicle, which rolled multiple times.

A DNR officer on a snowmobile, and police from Cedar Lake and the Lake County Sheriff's Department assisted in the incident.

"Formal charges have not been filed at this time but are expected," the DNR said.
GRIFFITH  At approximately 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Griffith police received a report of domestic battery in the 400 block of N. Woodlawn Avenue, police said.

Upon arrival, officers located the victim who was provided medical attention.

During the investigation, officers observed the suspect enter a nearby residence. Officers had reason to believe he may be in possession of a firearm, police said.

"Despite requests to exit, the suspect refused, prompting the request for assistance from the Northwest Regional SWAT Team," reports said. "Upon their arrival, the suspect voluntarily left the residence and surrendered peacefully."

Police said there is no indication that additional suspects are on the loose, and there is no threat to public safety. This incident remains an active investigation. No further information will be released at this time.

Anyone with information on this incident can contacted Detective Sgt. Al Tharp at 219-924-7503, ext. 252 or by email at albert.tharp@griffith.in.gov. Anonymous tips may be left at 219-922-3085.

Gallery: Recent arrests booked into Lake County Jail Jamille Walker Rebecca Strand Jennifer Phillips William Riley Damien Sahagun Jillian Sencaj Lashawntel Mackay Tursena Harris Semaj Irvin Todd Kasperan Imelda Lopez Tinotchy Evans Luke Hardin Lazarius Allison Patrick Colvin Antonio Santana Cameron Smith Primas Sweet Don Wiley Steven Mikel Jr. Jesus Morales Marcus Nash Mark Nicpon Ann Horta Enrique Feliciano Jacoby Gibson Eugene Clay Haley Austin Robert Van Noort Michael Udrow Derrick Keys Richard Morris Larry Newman Jr. Terrane Robinson Christian Saavedra Ibn Jones Donald Elmore III Brian Hawkins Brian Jablonski LaTeshia Adams Nashee Burns Stephanie Crilley Tonya Stevens Joseph Szilagyi Daniel Tyrka Jessica Smith Victor Sandoval Al Sepulveda Paul Slagle Crystal McLain Stuart Roane III Kelly Klapkowski Alyssa Hecker Eve Holt Lori Kikkert Mosell Gordon Jr. David Garcia Luveli Gipson Xavier Binder Jose Cotto Jr. Stephanie Crilley
SOUTH BEND  Five children pulled from a house fire Sunday evening died, according to the South Bend Fire Department.

Firefighters were called out during the early evening hours to a residential fire in the 200 North block of LaPorte Avenue, the department said.

"Upon arrival, the first responding Company, Engine 2, was met with intense flames engulfing both the first and second floors of the structure."

The crew battled back a significant portion of the blaze on the first floor of the building before moving to the second level where multiple people were reported trapped, firefighters said.

Firefighters said they initially located and removed two people.

"In total, six victims were extracted from the fire," according to the department. "Tragically, five of these individuals, all children, would later be pronounced deceased."

"One survivor was urgently transported to Memorial Hospital and later airlifted to a specialized pediatric burn center in Indianapolis for further treatment," firefighters said.

Illinois man accused of molesting Portage girl, collecting images, is now at Porter County jail VALPARAISO  A 25-year-old Illinois man, charged with having sex with a 12-year-old Portage girl and receiving 250 explicit photos and videos 

"While this incident casts a shadow of sorrow over our community, particularly due to the loss of young lives, it is also a poignant reminder of the courage and dedication displayed by the members of the South Bend Fire Department," officials said. "Their actions reflect the highest ideals of selflessness and a citizens-first ethos, characteristics emblematic of the bravery inherent in our city's first responders."

The South Bend Fire Department said it is both providing support to the impacted families and working with investigators to help determine the cause of the blaze.

"We are also caring for one of our firefighters who fell through the second floor onto the first floor," the department said. "He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. He is now recovering at home and is expected to recover and return to work in the near future."

GALLERY: The Times Photos of the Week
A Purdue University Northwest professor was recently recognized for her efforts in advocating against wrongful convictions and for criminal justice reform.

Nicky Jackson, a criminal justice professor, was presented the Visionary Impact Award on Jan. 12 in Indianapolis.

The recognition is part of the Champions of Diversity Awards, which are presented yearly by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine and Minority Business Review. The awards acknowledge individuals, companies and organizations that have shown a dedication to promoting diversity in Indiana.

Jackson was one of 20 recipients of the Champions of Diversity Awards.

The PNW professor also serves as executive director for the university's Center for Justice and Post-Exoneration Assistance, which was established in 2022.

The center focuses on providing assistance for exonerees once they are freed, educating the public on wrongful convictions, lobbying for criminal justice reform and investigating claims of innocence.

Jackson said it was an honor to have been selected for the award. However, she added that it wasn't just a recognition of her efforts, but of others such as Willie T. Donald, the project manager for CJPA and an exoneree.

Donald spent nearly 24 years incarcerated for crimes he didn't commit. After his exoneration in 2016, Jackson helped him following his release from prison.

"It's a reflection of the collective of all the people out here working to try to fight these miscarriages of justice," Jackson told The Times.

Jason Williams, the assistant director of PNW's Society of Innovators, nominated Jackson for the award given the humanitarian focus of her work.

"I think her work speaks for itself," Williams said.

Jackson also was awarded the Heart of Indiana last year and the Sagamore of the Wabash in 2021 for her advocacy for exonerees and criminal justice reform.

PHOTOS: Michigan City launches Pantries in the Parks initiative Michigan City is launching a "Pantries in the Park" pilot program Michigan City is launching a "Pantries in the Park" pilot program Michigan City is launching a "Pantries in the Park" pilot program Michigan City is launching a "Pantries in the Park" pilot program
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education is hoping to have a majority of Hoosier high school seniors complete the federal student aid application by this spring.

Last week, the commission announced its statewide completion goal for the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid. They look to have at least 60 percent of students complete the application by Indiana's priority deadline on April 15.

Nearly 48% of graduating 2023 high school seniors across the state completed FAFSA last school year, according to data from CHE.

Locally, a little over 46% of seniors in Lake County completed the application, while in Porter the completion percentage was nearly 50%, and LaPorte at over 52%.

The state's FAFSA completion rate has declined since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Indiana ranked 29th in the nation in completion percentage, based on the FAFSA filing rate for the 2022 high school graduating class.

Last year, the General Assembly passed Senate Enrolled Act 167, which requires high school seniors to file FAFSA starting this year. Indiana is the eighth state  including Illinois  to have some type of FAFSA filing mandate for high schoolers.

However the new requirement doesn't come with penalties if students fail to complete the application, and parents can decide to opt out by submitting a signed waiver.

What's need to complete FAFSA

Typically, FAFSA becomes available on Oct. 1. However changes to the application last year meant it did not open until late December. The updates are meant to simplify the process.

Before completing the student aid form, parents, their children, and "contributors"  such as step-parents or spouses  will need to create a Federal Student Aid account three days before filing FAFSA.

In order to set up an FSA ID, individuals will need to provide their Social Security number, date of birth, mailing address and personal email address.

Once the FSA ID is created and verified, the student can file the FAFSA application. Information needed to complete it will include federal income tax returns, W-2s, a list of any federal benefits received and bank statements.

Hoosier families needing assistance in completing FAFSA can access help at investedindiana.org.

What kinds of schools fared the best and worst during the pandemic? What kinds of schools fared the best and worst during the pandemic? School districts eye emergency relief funds to stanch learning loss
There can be no compromise on territorial integrity, efforts should be united to bring Ukraine's victory closer, Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine Oleh Nikolenko has said in response to a recent statement by Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico.

"Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico: 'There has to be some kind of compromise. What do they [Ukraine] expect, that the Russians will leave Crimea, Donbas and Luhansk? That's unrealistic.'  There can be no compromise on territorial integrity. Neither for Ukraine, nor for Slovakia or any other country," the diplomat said on Facebook on Monday.

He also emphasized that Ukraine and its partners are applying efforts to force Russian out of Crimea, Donbas and Luhansk and prevent them from moving further, including to Kosice, Presov and other Slovak regions.

"Let us be frank: without security in Ukraine, there will be no security either in Slovakia or in Europe in general. We must unite efforts to bring Ukraine's victory closer," Nikolenko said.

As reported, the Slovak Prime Minister said on January 20 that the only way to end Russia's war against Ukraine is to give part of its territory to the occupiers. He also confirmed his opposition to Ukraine's membership in NATO.
The Metra Board of Directors has adopted a passenger code of conduct that identifies prohibited behaviors for anyone using Metra facilities or trains and allows for the suspension of riding privileges and confiscation of the fare media from passengers whose behavior threatens the safety of train crews, other employees and fellow riders.

The Illinois commuter railroad said the code of conduct was created in response to a law passed by the Illinois Legislature in 2023 that gives transit agencies the ability to act against riders who engage in certain conduct.

In its announcement of the code, Metra provided these examples of prohibited conduct:

 Verbally or physically threatening the safety of another person.

 Causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person.

 Pushing or attempting to push another person.

 Hitting, kicking, or attempting to hit or kick another person.

 Attacking or threatening to attack another person with a weapon. This includes, but is not limited to, waving weapons or pointing a gun at another person (regardless of whether the gun is loaded).

 Throwing or attempting to throw things at another person.

 Spitting on or attempting to spit on another person.

 Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault another person or persons.

 Engaging in acts of public indecency.

Metra said that if a person engages in any of these behaviors, Metra employees will contact Metra Police, who will issue a notice to the passenger and schedule a hearing date regarding confiscation of fare cards (or withdrawal of mobile tickets from the Ventra app) and/or suspension of riding privileges. Metra Police may also issue criminal citations, as warranted.

Metra Police will keep a database of individuals, and if they are caught riding during their suspension period, they may be arrested for criminal trespass.

GALLERY: The Times Photos of the Week
The encounter took place at the top deck of a cruise ship somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.

Are these two chairs taken? I ask a middle-aged man.

He was basking under the hot sun with his wife and daughter. I expected him to say that the last two empty chairs on that deck were taken. The ship was packed with more than 3,500 passengers from around the world. It seemed like all of them were on the sun decks.

Nope, theyre all yours, the man replied.

Yeah? Thanks, I replied, not believing my luck.

My wife and I began setting up our chairs, laying out towels and settling in with our books and drinks. As we did, I struck up polite conversation with the man to break the only ice on that sun-kissed, 81-degree day.

My name is Jerry, I said.

My name is Justin, he replied.

Where are you guys from? I asked.

We moved to Florida a few years ago, he replied.

That made sense. Our cruise ship was docked in Miami.

I told him Im from the Chicago area, making it easy for him to identify. Typically, when I tell strangers that Im from Northwest Indiana, it takes them a few seconds to figure out the geographical logistics.

I try to narrow it down by telling them I was born in Gary, Indiana. Youd be surprised how many people have heard of the Steel City regardless where they live.

While applying sunscreen, the man told me hes familiar with our Region.

Before we moved to Florida, we lived just underneath Lake Michigan, he said.

Just underneath Lake Michigan?

Yeah? Where? I asked, instantly intrigued.

A small city you probably never heard of," he replied. "Valparaiso, Indiana."

Get out! I said.

I told him I live in Valparaiso. He was stunned, too.

And Im originally from Gary, he told me.

Get out again! I told him.

Such a random encounter in a world of randomness, I thought. Seriously, what are the odds? Yet our encounter isn't anything out of this world.

Last week, I recalled this cruise ship exchange five years ago after hearing from a Times reader in response to my column about Matthew Reum, the 27-year-old Mishawaka man whose life was rescued by a purely random encounter, I believe.

On Dec. 26, two fishermen from our Region stumbled across Reums wrecked truck underneath Interstate 94 in Portage. Wedged in Salt Creek, Reum was pinned inside his vehicle, surviving on rainwater, true grit and human instinct to survive.

Was it just random luck in a world of random things happening every second in millions of instances? Or was it God gracing him with just enough rainwater and hope until he was found? I wrote in that column.

Several readers contacted me to answer my rhetorical question.

It was not a random coincidence, Margaret Johnson wrote in an email. It was most certainly Gods hand that directed those two fishermen to Salt Creek to rescue Mr. Reum.

Another reader, Gary Franklin, told me in a phone call, Random luck doesnt exist. Everything happens for a reason.

I challenged Margarets assessment of that situation, and I disagreed with Garys assertion. Random coincidences take place every second, including ones with life or death outcomes. Also, not everything happens for a reason despite the historic popularity of that cliche.

We are a species of "significance junkies," a term credited to Carl Sagan, the late best-selling author, astronomer and science translator.

In our endless efforts to make sense of our chaotic and unpredictable world, we try to attach patterns and reasons to everything we see or experience. It gives us a sense of control and meaningfulness. It provides us comfort in a world tormented with discomfort.

I think it is wonderful that Matthew Reum survived this accident. God must have a plan for him, another reader told me.

Most readers I heard from agreed with this divine-blessed perspective. They believe that random luck had nothing to do with Reums rescue. Their belief crystallized when Reum publicly credited a miracle for being alive today.

That morning, I handed you my notebook, but that notebook had my obituary  because I was not planning on getting through that day, Reum said in a statement. There were so many miracles that led to that moment.

Even with much less dramatic circumstances in our lives, most of us search for meaning or purpose or significance. Its as human as breathing. We attempt to connect the dots in our orbit like distant stars in a heavenly constellation.

Look no further than religion, which glorifies the significance of our very existence with the promise of divine intervention. For thousands of years, it has worked miracles to ease our existential angst and fear of the unknown.

However, most of life is a series of random encounters and experiences followed by a series of comforting rationalizations and explanations. Without our attempts to explain the unexplainable, we are like cruise ships passing in the night with only faint lights twinkling in the distance.

Randomness doesn't give us much hope in such an unpredictable world, but it can feel just as miraculous.
President Biden pressed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel on Friday to agree to the creation of a Palestinian state after the war in Gaza is over and raised options that would limit Palestinian sovereignty to make the prospect more palatable to Israel.

Hoping to overcome Mr. Netanyahus strenuous resistance, Mr. Biden floated the possibility of a disarmed Palestinian nation that would not threaten Israels security. While there was no indication that Mr. Netanyahu would ease his opposition, which is popular with his fragile right-wing political coalition, Mr. Biden expressed optimism that they may yet find consensus.

There are a number of types of two-state solutions, the president told reporters at the White House several hours after the call, their first in nearly a month amid tension over the war. Theres a number of countries that are members of the U.N. that are still  dont have their own militaries. Number of states that have limitations. He added, And so I think theres ways in which this could work.

Asked what Mr. Netanyahu was open to, Mr. Biden said, Ill let you know. But he rejected the notion that a so-called two-state solution is impossible as long as Mr. Netanyahu is in power  no, its not  and he brushed off the idea of imposing conditions on American security aid to Israel if the prime minister continues to resist.

I think well be able to work something out, Mr. Biden said.

A day later, however, Mr. Netanyahu appeared not to have been swayed by Mr. Bidens pitch. I shall not compromise on full Israeli security control of the entire area west of Jordan River  and that is irreconcilable with a Palestinian state, he said in a post on social media.

The last time the two leaders were known to have talked was on Dec. 23, in a call that was later described as especially tense.
Season 4, Episode 2: Part 2

During last weeks episode, as Liz and her team were puzzling over the sudden disappearance of eight scientists at the Tsalal Research Station, Hank mused, Just the third day of darkness and its already getting weird. Based on some of the mysterious events we witnessed that episode, like the gyrating spirit that leads Rose to a grisly tableaux of frozen bodies, a word like weird seems woefully insufficient. One question we might have asked ourselves was whether Night Country would become a genuine ghost story or a hybrid, blending the noir sleuthing of previous True Detective seasons with mere intimations of the supernatural.

This second hour throws a little bit of ice-cold water on the weird stuff, at least insofar as it pertains to the deaths of these scientists and the unsolved murder of Annie, a young Inupiaq activist. Thats not to say that the uncanny wont be an important part of the show, but it seems more folded into the ambience of this sunless locale than a literal explanation for the violence happening within it. When Navarro asks Rose about Travis, an ex-lover who turns up to her as a spirit, it is blithely accepted that such ghosts can appear in the darkness from time to time.

I think the world is getting old, explains Rose, and Ennis is where the fabric of all things is coming apart at the seams. In other words, Night Country seems to be a waxing philosophical in the True Detective tradition, but the end-of-the-earth environs inspire thoughts that are tied more to Indigenous myths and frostbit hallucinations.

As for the case itself, theres a lot of strong, meat-and-potatoes procedural work in this episode that suggests it can be solved. And in the process of solving it, we can learn more about Danvers and Navarro, who remain inextricably at odds but have similar appetites for pursuing justice under terrible circumstances and blowing off steam with lovers they keep at arms length. The show no longer seems in danger of drifting into the inexplicable.
Jump to: Tricky Clues | Todays Theme

MONDAY PUZZLE  This grid will make you fancy Jake Halperin, who has constructed nine previous Times puzzles, all with themes. This is his first puzzle for Monday solvers, and its a hoot. There are a lot of entries that count as crunchy  challenging and thought-provoking, even from the perspective of an experienced solver. (Thats me! Im visiting from the weekend Wordplay shift while Sam Corbin goes ice fishing in Canada. Keep her in your thoughts.) Also, the theme reminds me of a difficult category in Connections; I found all of the entries, but couldnt place them together without a hint.

Todays Theme

Well, honey, sometimes a crossword constructor notices a couple of two-word phrases with an enticing little feature in common. Maybe he or she is lucky enough to find a third example. Then one more comes along, the constructor falls a little bit in love and they make a beautiful puzzle together. Its perfectly natural. If you still have questions, Sam will be back next week.

Im kidding! There are four clues in this theme set, each marked with an asterisk, at 20- and 39-Across and at 11- and 29-Down. Three are trivia questions, none are particularly easy and all are clued straightforwardly enough that the whole shebang might have flown right over my head without an explanatory entry, or revealer, at 56-Across.
Nikki Haley entered a seafood shack in Seabrook, N.H., on Sunday afternoon with some news for the crowd: Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, was no longer running for president.

We just heard that Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the race, Ms. Haley, the former South Carolina governor, said to cheers from the several dozen attendees. And 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 continued, holding up two fingers, to more cheers. She added: For now, Ill leave you with this: May the best woman win.

Ms. Haley and her allies have long sought to frame the presidential race as being between herself and former President Donald J. Trump, even as she finished third in the Iowa caucuses. With Mr. DeSantis now out of the race, that argument became much more salient  though recent polling averages put her 15 percentage points behind Mr. Trump in New Hampshire.
Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, who for years faced speculation about his marital status, on Saturday proposed to Mindy Noce, his girlfriend and an interior designer who lives in Charleston. She said yes.

Its been a whirlwind few days for Mr. Scott, whose endorsement of former President Donald J. Trump at a New Hampshire rally on Friday renewed talk about his consideration as a running mate, should Mr. Trump win the Republican nomination.

The engagement, which was first reported by The Washington Post, comes after more than a year of dating. Mr. Scott made his relationship with Ms. Noce public when he brought her onstage after a Republican presidential primary debate  the last he would participate in before suspending his campaign in November. The two met at church.

A spokesman for Mr. Scott, Nathan Brand, confirmed the engagement, which took place on Kiawah Island, S.C., near Charleston. Mr. Scott and Ms. Noce had a celebratory dinner afterward and Ms. Noce attended church the following morning, wearing her engagement ring.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel doubled down on his opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state this weekend, again rebuffing pressure from President Biden to agree to that path after the war in Gaza is over.

My insistence is what has prevented  over the years  the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have constituted an existential danger to Israel, Mr. Netanyahu said in a statement in Hebrew on Sunday. As long as I am prime minister, I will continue to strongly insist on this.

The statement reiterated comments he made on social media the previous day, when he said in Hebrew that he will not compromise on full Israeli security control of the entire area west of the Jordan River  and that is irreconcilable with a Palestinian state.

Mr. Netanyahus comments came after Mr. Biden spoke to him on Friday about a two-state solution and floated the possibility of a disarmed Palestinian nation that would not threaten Israels security. Mr. Biden has argued that the creation of a Palestinian state is the only viable long-term resolution to a conflict that has dragged on for decades, repeating a position held by most American presidents and European leaders in recent history.
Britains economy is stagnant, the international art market is in a downturn and the wider world is weighed down with ongoing geopolitical crises in the Middle East, Ukraine and beyond.

Yet, perhaps counter-intuitively, Londons contemporary art gallery scene is expanding.

This past weekend was the preview of the sixth edition of Condo London, a collaborative citywide exhibition featuring 27 invited international dealerships presenting exhibitions at 23 London contemporary galleries. Host dealers can choose to give over their spaces to their visiting colleagues, or hold their own exhibitions alongside them. Most of the works at the event, which runs through Feb. 17, are by emerging artists and are priced at under $20,000.

Back in 2016, the inaugural edition of this innovative alternative to an international art fair featured just eight London dealerships. Since then, spinoff events have been held in Athens, Mexico City, New York, Sao Paulo and Shanghai. This latest iteration is the first in London since 2020.
Now, the composer Joseph Boulogne would be hailed as a Renaissance man: artist, athlete, intellectual, soldier. Born in Guadeloupe in 1745, the son of a white French plantation owner and an enslaved mother of Senegalese origin, Boulogne became a virtuoso violinist, prodigious composer, champion fencer, the general of Europes first Black regiment and an avid abolitionist.

But Boulogne, a.k.a. the Chevalier de Saint-Georges (and whose last name is sometimes spelled Bologne), was a biracial man in a time and place that held little space for him, which means his remarkable life has largely been erased from the historical narrative, though that is beginning to change.

The Chevalier, a trim hybrid of theater and music, seeks to revive his reputation. The show was written and directed by Bill Barclay, the artistic director of Music Before 1800. (Barclay also plays Choderlos de Laclos, a Boulogne collaborator and author of the novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses.) A single performance at the eye-poppingly opulent United Palace theater in Washington Heights on Sunday served as its New York City premiere; it will be available to stream next month.

The Chevalier starts rather unpromisingly. Barclay takes as his point of imaginative departure the few weeks that Boulogne and Mozart were housemates in Paris. Mozart, 11 years younger, grills Boulogne about his life story, and he responds with long, expository answers that hit on major biographical points  more school lecture than beguiling drama.
In the intense war of words over the Israel-Gaza war, a particular phrase has popped up repeatedly. At protests, on fliers and in some mainstream publications, it is common to see Israel described  or more likely, assailed  as a settler-colonial state.

The concept of settler colonialism originates in academia, where its use has surged over the past two decades, whether in case studies of particular places or sweeping master narratives that purport to explain everything since Columbus. It has also been widely taken up on the activist left, invoked in discussions of gentrification, environmental degradation, financial capitalism and other subjects.

The term settler colonialism may combine two words that are very familiar. But in combination, the term can land as a moral slander  or worse.

Those who call Israel a settler-colonial enterprise see a country formed by waves of Jewish arrivals who pushed Arab inhabitants out to create an exclusive ethnostate. To others, that is a gross distortion that redefines refugees as oppressors and ignores the long history of the Jewish diasporas attachment to its ancestral land  as well as the continuous existence of a Jewish community whose ancestors never left.
U.S. official heads to Middle East for hostage talks

Brett McGurk, President Bidens Middle East coordinator at the White House, departed for Cairo yesterday for talks aimed at the release of more hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a pause in Israels military campaign in the Gaza Strip, U.S. officials said.

Egypt and Qatar helped broker a cease-fire in November during which Hamas released more than 100 people from captivity. The hope is that another such deal can be arranged. But U.S. officials have said that a new hostage release has been complicated by Hamass evident desire for a permanent cease-fire.

The trip comes as Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, reiterated that he would not withdraw Israeli forces and remained opposed to the two-state solution backed by the U.S. and other allies. Divisions have emerged in Israel over the path forward, including over whether military action can achieve the hostages safe return.
North Koreas newest missiles appear in Ukraine

Russians are beginning to deploy North Korean arms on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Though many of the North Korean artillery rounds are proving to be duds  some appear to have been manufactured decades ago  theyre giving the Russians something to fire while Ukraines military rations its own dwindling supply of munitions.

But what has U.S., NATO and European officials worried are the missiles: So far, fewer than 50 appear to have been transferred to Russia, but there could be far more to come. Three barrages of North Korean-made missiles targeted Ukrainian positions around the new year, American officials say, and they believe more were used on the battlefield over the weekend.

An analysis by Conflict Armament Research, an organization that has documented the arms used in Russias war in Ukraine, showed that the North Korean missiles were relatively recent in their design. U.S. officials say theyre proving as accurate as Russias home-built equipment.

A testing ground: In South Korea, officials and analysts say the Ukraine war is giving the North something it desperately needs: a way to see how its new missile arsenal, designed for a conflict with South Korea and the U.S., fares against Western-designed air defenses.
Three years ago, dozens of big companies formed a coalition and declared an ambitious goal: to lift one million Black workers into good-paying jobs over the next 10 years, by hiring or promoting them.

The resulting nonprofit, OneTen, was created amid a crescendo of calls to address racial injustice after George Floyds murder in 2020. It asked its members  including AT&T, Bank of America, Cisco, Delta Air Lines, Dow, General Motors, Nike and Walmart  to pledge to hire and promote Black workers based on skills instead of college degrees.

Fast-forward, and the social climate has since changed drastically. Pushing Black-only hiring programs has grown increasingly controversial, particularly in the wake of the Supreme Courts ruling last year against race-based affirmative action policies at universities.

OneTen, which has fallen far behind the pace needed to reach its initial goal, is at the forefront of a movement to adopt diversity, equity and inclusion methods in business. And it has been forced to change with the times.
Exxon Mobil is suing two activist investors to prevent their proposal calling for emissions cuts at the oil giant from going to a vote of shareholders.

In a complaint filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas on Sunday, Exxon accused the investors, Arjuna Capital and Follow This, of abusing the process for proposing shareholder votes to advance their priorities with votes calculated to diminish the companys existing business.

Arjuna filed a proposal in December for a nonbinding resolution that urged Exxon to accelerate its plans to reduce its carbon emissions and expand the scope of the emissions it measures to include its suppliers and customers. Follow This joined in support of the proposal shortly thereafter, according to the complaint.

The proposal does not seek to improve ExxonMobils economic performance or create shareholder value, Exxon said in the complaint, but is instead constraining and micromanaging the companys operations.
When Crystal Wilkinson wants to summon her kitchen ghosts, she retrieves a fuchsia-hued dress from her closet and hangs it in the doorway. The sturdy, double-hemmed garment invites her grandmother Christine, who sewed it by hand and wore it often before she died in 1994, to join her.

The dress acts as a literal and metaphorical tethering to her and this matriarchal lineage, Ms. Wilkinson said in a phone interview from her kitchen.

A poet and professor at the University of Kentucky, Ms. Wilkinson, 62, explores such physical and spiritual ties between the past and present in her new book, Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts. Combining elements of poetry, prose and fiction, the book tells stories from her upbringing in Indian Creek, Ky., alongside recipes from five generations of her family, from her enslaved ancestors to the present day.
A prominent cancer center affiliated with Harvard said it will ask medical journals to retract six research papers and correct dozens of others after a British scientist and blogger found that work by some of its top executives was rife with duplicated or manipulated data.

The center, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, one of the nations foremost cancer treatment and research facilities, moved quickly in recent days to address allegations of faulty data in 58 studies, many of them influential, compiled by a British molecular biologist, Sholto David.

In many cases, Dr. David found, images in the papers had been stretched, obscured or spliced together in a way that suggested deliberate attempts to mislead readers. The studies he flagged included some published by Dana-Farbers chief executive, Dr. Laurie Glimcher, and its chief operating officer, Dr. William Hahn.

The retractions come as researchers in the United States face growing pressure to account for instances of scientific misconduct, sloppy work or outright fraud. Image sleuths have recently found evidence of fabricated data in scores of influential papers on Alzheimers disease. Last year, Marc Tessier-Lavigne resigned as president of Stanford University after some of his published papers were found to contain manipulated results.

Allegations of misconduct have ballooned in part because experts have access to new artificial intelligence tools that can flag suspicious images depicting experimental results.

In the wake of recent high-profile misconduct claims, experts have drawn attention to a publish or perish culture in academia, which pressures researchers to generate striking results and place papers in major journals, whatever the merits of a study. Some researchers have also said that certain labs, explicitly or not, encourage junior researchers to take shortcuts.
New York City will buy up millions of dollars of medical debt and erase it in a program that officials hope will ultimately help as many as 500,000 New Yorkers.

Mayor Eric Adams announced Monday that the city would invest $18 million in a partnership with a nonprofit organization that buys up unpaid medical debt from hospitals at steep discounts and then erases it. Hospital systems and commercial debt buyers are often willing to sell medical debt at steep discounts, and the $18 million could wipe out over $2 billion in unpaid medical bills, city officials said.

Up to half a million New Yorkers will see their medical debt wiped thanks to this life-changing program  the largest municipal initiative of its kind in the country, Mayor Adams said.

Daniel Lempert, a spokesman for the nonprofit organization RIP Medical Debt, said that the group had begun conversations with New York City hospitals about examining their books to identify patients eligible for debt relief. In deciding which debts to buy, the group looks for patients whose unpaid medical bills are at least 5 percent of their annual household income or patients in households with an income under four times the federal poverty line  which is $31,200 for a family of four.
Third graders at Public School 103 in the north Bronx sat on a rug last month while their teacher, Kristy Neumeister, led a book discussion.

The book, Rain School, is about children who live in a rural region of Chad, a country in central Africa. Every year, their school must be rebuilt because storms wash it away.
The trial of E. Jean Carrolls defamation suit against Donald J. Trump was delayed until Wednesday after a juror fell ill.

Judge Lewis A. Kaplan did not give a reason for his decision, which was announced by the federal court in Manhattan late Monday.

The decision followed uncertainty over the condition of the juror and a request from Mr. Trump to postpone the trial because of the Republican primary in New Hampshire, which is on Tuesday. The former president, who is seeking to return to the White House, has been alternating campaign stops with court appearances, using his time in the courtroom as an opportunity to reach voters and complain that he is being mistreated.

The Carroll trial, which is in its second week, had already been suspended for the day after the juror reported flulike symptoms. Mr. Trump had said he wanted to testify, but his lawyer Alina Habba said in court Monday morning that he would not be able to take the stand on Tuesday because of the primary.
The Cabinet of Ministers proposes to introduce a ban on direct air, land, rail and sea communications between the Russian Federation and Ukraine.

This provision is contained in Government Order No. 39-r dated January 19, 2024, by which the Cabinet of Ministers invites the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine to approve within ten days proposals to apply sanctions against the transport sector of the Russian Federation for a period of 50 years.

The ban, in particular, applies to all types of direct and transit flights, as well as the use of Ukrainian airspace by aircraft owned by legal entities-residents of the Russian Federation.

Regarding land transport, the ban applies to buses, trucks with or without trailers and semi-trailers, registered on the territory of the Russian Federation.

Regarding railway transport, the ban applies to the entry into the customs territory of Ukraine of all types of carriages, locomotives, motor rails for persons associated with the aggressor state, as well as railway rolling stock registered with the railway administration of the Russian Federation.

In addition, according to the order, ships under the flag of the Russian Federation are prohibited from sailing in the internal waters of Ukraine and entering seaports. The ban also applies to ships that entered ports in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

At the same time, the resolution also provides for the non-recognition of sailors' qualification documents, medical certificates and other documents issued by the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

The order also prohibits citizens of the Russian Federation from working on ships under the flag of Ukraine, with the exception of persons who are on the territory of Ukraine legally and have the appropriate documents.
What happens when you stress-test Americas system for electing a president? How well does it hold up?

After the assault on the nations Capitol three years ago, we worked through every strategy we could imagine for subverting the popular will by manipulating the law. What we found surprised us. We determined that the most commonly discussed strategies  such as a state legislature picking a new slate of electors to the Electoral College  wouldnt work because of impediments built into the Constitution. We also concluded that the most blatantly extreme strategies, such as a state canceling its election and selecting its electors directly, are politically unlikely.

The scenario we see as the most alarming was made possible by the Supreme Court itself. In a 2020 decision, the court held, in our reading, that state legislatures have the power to direct electors on how to cast their electoral votes. And this opens the door to what we think is the most dangerous strategy: that a legislature would pass a law that directs electors to vote for the candidate the legislature picks.

The question now is whether there is any way to close that loophole before a stolen election slides through.
The war in Gaza has now gone where many feared it would, expanding into conflict in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and the Red Sea. With Americas repeated strikes against the Houthis in Yemen this month, fears of a larger regional conflagration are steadily growing.

Present in each of those arenas is Iran  and the question of whether Tehran and its powerful military will enter a wider war.

For years, Iran has provided funding, arms or training to Hamas and Hezbollah, which are fighting Israel, and to the Houthis, who have been attacking ships in the Red Sea. Iran has also launched its own strikes in recent days in retaliation for a deadly bombing earlier this month, claiming to target Israeli spy headquarters in Iraq and the Islamic State in Syria. It has also exchanged strikes with Pakistan across their shared border.

While Iran is clearly asserting its military strength amid the widening regional turmoil, that doesnt mean its leaders want to be drawn into a wider war. They have said as much publicly, and perhaps more important, they have meticulously avoided taking direct military action against either Israel or the United States. The regime appears to be content for now to lean into its longtime strategy of proxy warfare: The groups they back are fighting Irans foes and so far, neither Israel nor the United States has signaled any interest in retaliating directly.
Donald Trump won Iowa and wants to win New Hampshire and seal up the nomination. Nikki Haley wants to come from behind, win New Hampshire, and gain some momentum before heading to her home state of South Carolina.

What matters to people in New Hampshire? How has the states Republican Party, which gets a major say in the politics of the rest of the country, changed over the last decade with Mr. Trump in the mix? New Hampshire is a very different state from Iowa: In New England, theyre less interested in abortion, and more interested in the kinds of working-class populism once espoused by a figure like Pat Buchanan and now personified (if not exemplified) by Donald Trump. So I spoke with Dante Scala, a professor of political science at the University of New Hampshire and an expert in presidential primaries and New Hampshire politics.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity and is part of an Opinion Q. and A. series exploring modern conservatism today, its influence in society and politics and how and why it differs (and doesnt) from the conservative movement that most Americans thought they knew.

Jane Coaston: We spoke just before the Iowa caucus and you said that you believed that Nikki Haley was in a strong second place in New Hampshire after Chris Christies exit from the race. What did you make of the Iowa results?
Ron DeSantis began the 2024 campaign as a formidable candidate, with early poll numbers that rivaled or even exceeded the likes of Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama.

In the end, that early strength meant only that he had more room to fall.

There are countless reasons Mr. DeSantis fell apart and ultimately ended his campaign Sunday  including that his opponent proved once again to be a juggernaut. Perhaps Mr. DeSantis might have won the nomination in most other years, if he hadnt been going against a former president.

But rather than dwell on his losing campaign, its worth returning to his apparent strength at the outset  that brief moment when Mr. DeSantis, or at least the idea of Mr. DeSantis, routinely led Mr. Trump in high-quality head-to-head polls.

In the eight years since Donald J. Trump won the Republican nomination, this was the only moment when Republican voters appeared willing to go a different direction. Mr. DeSantis didnt capitalize on the moment, but nonetheless its the only glimpse weve had into the post-Trump Republican Party. We saw something that might bring it about, and we saw what it might look like.
Lets be blunt about the stakes of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday.

If Donald J. Trump wins decisively, as the polls suggest, he will be on track to win the Republican nomination without a serious contest. The race will be all but over.

The backdrop is simple: Mr. Trump holds a dominant, 50-plus-point lead in the polls with just seven weeks to go until the heart of the primary season, when the preponderance of delegates will be awarded. His position has only improved since Iowa, with national polls now routinely showing him with over 70 percent of the vote.

Even skeptical Republican officials are consolidating behind the partys front-runner. Ron DeSantiss decision to suspend his campaign and endorse Mr. Trump is only the latest example.

The polling by state isnt much better for Nikki Haley, the only remaining opponent for Mr. Trump. He leads Ms. Haley by at least 30 points in all of the states after New Hampshire until Super Tuesday. So without a monumental shift in the race, he will secure the nomination in short order.
A Harvard task force on antisemitism has gotten off to a rocky start, with complaints that the professor chosen to help lead the panel had signed a letter that was critical of Israel, describing it as a regime of apartheid for its treatment of Palestinians.

Harvards new interim president, Alan Garber, announced the formation of two presidential task forces on Friday, one to combat antisemitism and the other to combat Islamophobia and anti-Arab bias. The move came less than a month after his predecessor, Claudine Gay, was forced to step down over plagiarism accusations and criticism that she had been weak on reining in antisemitism.

But the choice for co-chair of the task force, Derek J. Penslar, a professor of Jewish history at Harvard, was met with opposition from Lawrence H. Summers, a former Harvard president, and Bill Ackman, a hedge fund manager whose relentless criticism of Dr. Gay helped bring about her downfall.

Dr. Penslar was among nearly 2,900 academics, clergy members and other public figures who signed an open letter in August, before the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, condemning the Israeli government and saying that it was determined to ethnically cleanse all territories under Israeli rule of their Palestinian population.
The Defense Department identified on Monday the two Navy SEALs who were lost at sea and died this month during a nighttime commando raid on a small ship carrying weapons components bound for Yemen.

Active-duty and veteran SEALs said it appeared that the men might have sunk quickly before they could be rescued, and that the circumstances of their deaths raised questions about the planning and conduct of the raid. An official investigation is pending.

Special Operator First Class Christopher J. Chambers, 37, and Special Operator Second Class Nathan Gage Ingram, 27, were lost on Jan. 11 when SEALs in two stealthy combat speedboats, shadowed by helicopters and drones, boarded a dhow, a type of small wooden cargo ship, in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Somalia.

As the two men tried to climb a rope boarding ladder in rough seas, one fell into the ocean and another jumped into the water to attempt a rescue, according to defense officials who were briefed on the incident. Both SEALs were quickly lost in the waves.
When a jury of military officers is assembled this week at Guantanamo Bay, it will be asked to choose a sentence in the 20- to 25-year range for two Malaysian prisoners who admitted to conspiring with an affiliate of Al Qaeda that carried out a deadly bombing in Indonesia two decades ago.

But behind the scenes, through a secret agreement that was negotiated with a senior Trump-era official, the men could be returned to Malaysia before the end of the year.

The sentencing proceedings for Mohammed Farik Bin Amin, 48, and Mohammed Nazir Bin Lep, 47, are part of a U.S. government strategy of trying to resolve Guantanamos national security cases through plea negotiations. The men spent years in secret C.I.A. prisons following their capture in 2003. In reaching the agreement, prosecutors averted lengthy litigation over torture that has stymied two capital cases, one for the Sept. 11 attacks and the the other for the bombing of the U.S.S. Cole.

The two men were captured along with a onetime member of the Qaeda affiliate, an Indonesian known as Hambali.
If President Bidens re-election campaign can feel like a slog elsewhere, the write-in effort for him in New Hampshires primary election is infused with the sort of joy found in spirited underdogs.

Veteran Democrats in the state have been pushing the partys voters and independents to write in the name of Mr. Biden on Tuesday, a move necessitated by his absence from the ballot after New Hampshire fought his decision to push the state back on the nominating calendar.

The effort has energized New Hampshire Democrats, who have long chafed under the micromanagement of national party leaders. The write-in effort has freed them from outside interference and allowed them to run a campaign as they like.

And they are growing optimistic.

With no backing or communication from the Democratic National Committee or Mr. Bidens campaign headquarters in Delaware, these New Hampshire Democrats, who began the Write-In Biden campaign late last year, now expect to help deliver the president an overwhelming victory.
The F.A.A. said on Sunday that the door plug on the 737-900ER, an earlier-generation model that is not part of Boeings Max line, had not yet been a problem.

As an added layer of safety, the Federal Aviation Administration is recommending that operators of Boeing 737-900ER aircraft visually inspect mid-exit door plugs to ensure the door is properly secured, the agency said in a statement.

The F.A.A. is recommending that the airlines using the 737-900ER immediately inspect the four locations used to secure the door plug to the airframe. The 737-900ER has over 11 million hours of operation and about four million flight cycles, according to the F.A.A. Boeing delivered about 500 of the planes globally between 2007 and 2019, though not all of them have door plugs.

We fully support the F.A.A. and our customers in this action, Boeing said in a statement.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, which both use the 737-900ER, said in statements that they had already started inspecting their planes of that model. Delta Air Lines, which also flies the aircraft, said it had elected to take proactive measures to inspect our 737-900ER fleet. None of the airlines expected any disruptions to their operations.
Shmyhal discusses with Polish PM creation of four more new checkpoints between countries

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal discussed with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk the creation of four more new checkpoints between the countries.

"Our governments remain committed to the development of border infrastructure and our logistics. We want to implement joint border and customs controls, exchange customs databases and continue to modernize our checkpoints," Shmyhal said at a briefing with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv on Monday.

According to the Prime minister, the parties also discussed the creation of four more new checkpoints in addition to the existing fourteen.
Former President Donald J. Trump paved a path to the presidency in 2016 by calling for a big, beautiful wall along the United States border with Mexico.

His 2024 rivals in the Republican primary election, scrapping for every advantage against him, looked north.

Nikki Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, has frequently told voters that its not just the southern border that needs stepped-up enforcement  its the northern border, too.

I think we do whatever it takes to keep people out, she told reporters on Saturday when asked if her comments meant she supported building a wall. If thats what it takes to keep them out, we will do a wall, we will do any sort of border patrol that we need to have.
With only about 48 hours left to campaign in the New Hampshire primary, Nikki Haley finally got the two-person race she wanted.

It might not live up to her expectations.

For months, it has been an article of faith among Ms. Haleys supporters and a coalition of anti-Trump Republicans that the only way to defeat Donald J. Trump was to winnow the field to a one-on-one contest and consolidate support among his opponents.

That wishcasting became reality on Sunday afternoon, when Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida ended his White House bid.

And yet, as the race reached the final day, there was little sign that Mr. DeSantiss departure would transform Ms. Haleys chances of winning.
When Russia turned to Kim Jong-un of North Korea to help it through its war with Ukraine, it came with a big shopping list that included a million rounds of artillery to shoot at Ukrainian troops dug into trenches across the south and east, and dozens of North Koreas newest, barely tested missiles.

Now those weapons are beginning to show up, deeply worrying U.S. and European officials who say they fear the Norths ammunition could prove important on the battlefield at a huge moment of vulnerability for Ukraine.

While many of the North Korean artillery rounds are proving to be duds  some appear to have been manufactured decades ago  they are giving the Russians something to fire at Ukrainian forces, who are rationing their own dwindling supply. European nations promised Ukraine a huge resupply, but for now seem to have been able to scrounge up only 300,000 or so artillery shells.

But it is the missiles that raise the most concern, from the Pentagon to NATOs headquarters in Brussels. In interviews, a range of officials said they fear the Russians hope to use missiles to overwhelm Western air defenses. While so far the number of missiles transferred is small, likely fewer than 50, U.S. and European officials believe there could be far more to come.
The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to decide whether Richard Glossip, a death row inmate in Oklahoma, deserves a new trial in light of newly disclosed evidence and an extraordinary concession from the states Republican attorney general.

Mr. Glossip was convicted in 1998 of arranging the death of his employer, the owner of a motel in Oklahoma City. Two independent investigations have cast doubt on his guilt, and he has attracted support from celebrities like Kim Kardashian and state lawmakers from both political parties.

The states attorney general, Gentner F. Drummond, told the justices that the state had come to the difficult but essential conclusion that Glossips capital conviction is unsustainable and a new trial imperative.

He added, The injustice of allowing a capital sentence to be carried out where the conviction was occasioned by the governments own admitted failings would be nigh unfathomable.
The Supreme Court sided with the Biden administration on Monday, allowing federal officials to cut or remove parts of a concertina-wire barrier along the Mexican border that Texas erected to keep migrants from crossing into the state.

The ruling, by a 5-to-4 vote, was a victory for the administration in the increasingly bitter dispute between the White House and Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas, an outspoken critic of President Bidens border policy who has shipped busloads of migrants to northern cities.

Since 2021, Mr. Abbott, a third-term Republican, has mounted a multibillion-dollar campaign to impose stringent measures at the border to deter migrants. Those include erecting concertina wire along the banks of the Rio Grande, installing a barrier of buoys in the river and enacting a sweeping law that allows state and local law enforcement to arrest migrants crossing from Mexico.

In lifting an appeals court ruling that had generally prohibited the administration from removing the wire while the court considers the case, the justices gave no reasons, which is typical when they act on emergency applications. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Amy Coney Barrett joined the courts three liberal members to form a majority.
A landslide in southwestern Chinas Yunnan Province on Monday left at least 11 people dead and more than 30 others buried, according to the Chinese state media, as a cold wave blanketed much of the country.

State media said that more than 500 people had been evacuated. Aerial footage of the disaster site from the state broadcaster, China Central Television, showed a dark, gaping furrow gouged out of a snowy mountainside, which had carved through wide swaths of terraced fields and into a cluster of low houses.

The landslide occurred just before 6 a.m. on Monday, hitting two small villages in the northernmost part of the province, near the borders with Sichuan and Guizhou Provinces. The villages, Hexing and Heping, are sparsely populated, in a mountainous area that was once one of the poorest parts of China.

Hundreds of workers were climbing over snow-dusted rubble to rescue the missing residents, who came from at least 18 different households, state media reported. The temperature at the landslide site was below freezing on Monday morning, and snow was continuing to fall.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a gigantic new temple in the Indian city of Ayodhya on Monday, concluding a long campaign in which Hindu nationalists tore down a centuries-old mosque and replaced it with a structure devoted to the Hindu deity Ram.

Leading up to the temples consecration, public spaces around India were thrumming with excitement. Ram is one of the most revered gods among Indias Hindus, who make up about 80 percent of a total population of 1.4 billion. As the hero of the Ramayana epic, he is a king and a paragon of virtue, exiled from his native Ayodhya, who comes home for a jubilant coronation.

Islam does not appear in the Ramayana, having arrived in India only 1,000 years ago. But it is cast as the primary villain in the Hindu-nationalist telling of Indias history. Now, with a kind of spiritual and political homecoming for Mr. Modi, the Ram campaigners have the temple they had sought for decades.
They fanned out across the vast country, knocking on doors in the name of a cause that would redefine India.

These foot soldiers and organizers, including a young Narendra Modi, collected millions of dollars to be socked away for a long fight to build a grand Hindu temple in Ayodhya, in northern India. Across 200,000 villages, ceremonies were arranged to bless individual bricks that would be sent to that sacred city, believed by Hindus to be the birthplace of the deity Ram.

The bricks, the campaigns leaders declared, would not just be used for the temples construction on land occupied for centuries by a mosque. They would be the foundation for a Hindu rashtra, or Hindu nation, that would correct what right-wing Hindus saw as the injustice of Indias birth as a secular republic.

Nearly four decades later, the cornerstone of that sweeping vision has been laid.

Mr. Modi, now the countrys prime minister, inaugurated the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Monday  the crowning achievement of a national movement aimed at establishing Hindu supremacy in India by rallying the countrys Hindu majority across castes and tribes.
Pushing back against accusations of antisemitism, Elon Musk has in recent months visited Israel, hosted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a Tesla factory in California and repeatedly insisted he bears no animus toward Jews.

On Monday, he took his penitence tour to a new level, declaring himself aspirationally Jewish after a visit to the former Nazi death camp Auschwitz in southern Poland, where he lit a candle in memory of the millions of Jews murdered in the Holocaust.

Mr. Musk, the owner of X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, stirred outrage  and an exodus of advertisers  in November when he endorsed an antisemitic post on X as the actual truth. The post accused Jewish communities of pushing hatred against whites and supporting the immigration of hordes of minorities.

The White House denounced Mr. Musk for abhorrent promotion of antisemitic and racist hate.

He quickly apologized for his intervention, saying it might be literally the worst and dumbest post Ive ever done. He has been scrambling since to calm the outcry and halt the flight of advertisers.
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York and the former wife of Prince Andrew, said on Monday that it had been a shock to receive a second diagnosis of cancer within a year, after doctors found melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer.

The former royal, 64, had spoken publicly about her decision to undergo a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery last year, following a breast cancer diagnosis in the summer.

A spokesperson for Ms. Ferguson told The Associated Press on Sunday that the melanoma was found after several moles were removed during her treatment for breast cancer and that doctors were still analyzing the situation.

On Monday, Ms. Ferguson said on Instagram that she had received care in the past weeks and was recuperating at home with family. It was thanks to the great vigilance of my dermatologist that the melanoma was detected when it was, she wrote.
Shmyhal calls on Poland to help coordinate Ukraine Facility, start talks on EU membership, decisions on Ukraine's membership in NATO

Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal has called on Poland to help coordinate the Ukraine Facility by the European Council, start negotiations on joining the European Union and decisions on Ukraine's membership in NATO.

"Ukraine has three key tasks this year, and we ask Poland," Shmyhal said at a briefing with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv on Monday.

In particular, its about the approval by the European Council of a financial support instrument for Ukraine Facility; the beginning of the negotiation process on joining the European Union; clear decisions at the Washington NATO summit on Ukraine's membership in the Alliance.

Shmyhal also said that the parties discussed many areas of cooperation, which should be mutually beneficial.

"We also urge the European Commission to extend the measures on trade liberalization for Ukraine, as well as the liberalization of transportation," the Prime Minister of Ukraine said.

According to Shmyhal, there are already bills in parliament that bring logistics and transport standards in line with European norms.
Four days ago, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain urged the House of Lords, the unelected upper chamber of Parliament, not to block his plans to put asylum seekers on one-way flights to Rwanda, describing his contentious migration policy as the will of the people.

On Monday night, the Lords did not play ball.

Instead, they voted to delay the crucial treaty with Rwanda that underpins Mr. Sunaks legislation  underscoring the hostility among some members of the chamber to a policy that has proved divisive ever since it was introduced by Boris Johnson, then the prime minister, in 2022.

In practical terms, the vote has limited impact because the House of Lords  a legislature which is largely made up of former politicians, civil servants and diplomats, as well as 26 bishops  does not have the power to prevent the treaty from coming into force.

But it is a symbolic setback for Mr. Sunak and suggests that the Lords may try to amend the broader legislation, the so-called safety of Rwanda bill, which they are scheduled to start debating next week. It may also strengthen future legal challenges by asylum seekers against their deportation to the African country.
Supporters and relatives of hostages captured in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks burst into a meeting at Israels Parliament on Monday to demand that lawmakers take greater action to secure the captives release from Gaza.

The protest reflected the growing frustration of hostage families who have become increasingly concerned about the fate of their family members as the war, already well into its fourth month, continues.

You will not sit here while they are dying there, read signs held up by some of the demonstrators, who interrupted a meeting of the Finance Committee.

Shame on you! one of the protesters yelled.

Over the past week, several current and former Israeli security officials have suggested that making a deal with Hamas would be the only way to bring the hostages back to Israel safely. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, has continued to speak of both eliminating Hamas in Gaza and returning the hostages.

Gilad Korngold, 62, whose son Tal Shoham is one of the hostages, was seen on video being restrained by an usher in the conference room. In an interview later in the day, Mr. Korngold said time was running out to bring his son home alive.

The danger is increasing every day that passes, Mr. Korngold said. Israel and the relevant countries in the region need to sit at the table  without eating or sleeping  and make this terrible situation end.

He said that three members of his family were killed on Oct. 7, and six others who had been abducted were released during a short-lived cease-fire in late November.

On Saturday, protesters at rallies in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Caesarea  near a private residence of Mr. Netanyahu  called on the government to take immediate action to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza.

The cease-fire in November between Israel and Hamas, which lasted a week, was brokered with help from Qatar and Egypt. It allowed for the release of about 100 hostages and 240 Palestinian detainees and prisoners held by Israel, but efforts to secure another such deal have made little apparent progress.

On Monday, Mr. Netanyahu told representatives of hostage families that there was no real proposal from Hamas, but that Israel had put forward its own offer, without elaborating on its details, according to a statement from his office.

Brett McGurk, a senior Biden administration official, was scheduled to travel to Cairo and Doha, Qatar, this week in hopes of making progress toward an agreement that would result in the release of more hostages in exchange for a pause in Israels military campaign in Gaza, two American officials said on Sunday.
Israels foreign minister was in Brussels on Monday to address his counterparts from the European Union, as part of a diplomatic battle to win support from the bloc amid deepening criticism over the human toll of the war and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus refusal to consider Palestinian statehood.

The foreign minister, Yisrael Katz, was scheduled to meet in a private session with E.U. foreign ministers to discuss defeating Hamas and the return of hostages from Gaza, his office said. In brief remarks to reporters before the meeting, Mr. Katz said he would speak about Israels need for international support to succeed in both those objectives.

Im here to meet my colleagues, the foreign ministers for the E.U., and to discuss with them about two main issues. First of all, bring back our hostages, Mr. Katz said, holding up photos of the youngest hostage, 1-year-old Kfir Bibas, and several others. He added that Israel needed E.U. support to ensure its security, adding: Our brave soldiers are fighting in very hard conditions.

The Palestinian foreign minister, Riyad al-Maliki, was also scheduled to address the E.U. officials in a separate appearance.
The U.S. military said on Sunday that it had declared two Navy SEALs dead after they went missing 10 days ago during an operation at sea to intercept weapons from Iran headed to Houthi fighters.

They are among the first known U.S. fatalities in Washingtons campaign against the Houthis, who have launched dozens of attacks on ships in the Red Sea since November, roiling the global shipping industry.

In recent weeks, the United States and its allies have launched a barrage of strikes on the Houthis inside Yemen, in a bid to deter future attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. The episode involving the SEALs occurred in the Arabian Sea, off the coast of Somalia on Jan. 11. During that nighttime commando mission, according to the U.S. military, American troops boarded a small boat, called a dhow, and seized weapons including Iranian made ballistic-missile and cruise-missile components bound for Yemen.

As the commandos tried to board the dhow in rough seas, one member appeared to slip off the boarding ladder or was swept away by a high wave, one current and one former Pentagon official, who were briefed on the incident, said earlier this month. Another jumped into the water to try to save the first officer, but both disappeared below the waves.

The military conducted what it called was an expansive operation to find the two commandos, searching more than 21,000 square miles.

The search and rescue operation for the two Navy SEALs reported missing during the boarding of an illicit dhow carrying Iranian advanced conventional weapons Jan. 11 concluded and we are now conducting recovery operations, the U.S. Central Command said in a statement on Sunday. It did not release the names of the deceased.

The mission led to the first seizure by U.S. forces of Iran-supplied weapons since the Houthis started attacking ships in the Red Sea, the U.S. military said in a statement last week. Initial analysis indicated that the same weapons  including warheads for medium-range ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles  had been used by the Houthis to launch strikes on vessels in the Red Sea, according to the statement.

The Iran-backed Houthis have said they are protesting the killing of Gazans by Israel and that their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians.
Eric Andrus

The court of public opinion can affect an enterprises reputation and ongoing business prospects just as much as actual court proceedings. Given todays tumultuous business climate and a political environment constantly impacted by global wars and brewing conflicts, the role of communications in supporting a legal strategy has taken on an outsized importance. In this era of hot takes, disinformation and over-heated rhetoricand amid a rising distrust in the media, government and societal institutionsevery enterprises key stakeholders seek assurance, accurate information and empathy on all fronts. A business and its legal counsel must navigate rapidly emerging legal issuesfrom class action lawsuits and litigation salvos from competitors to regulatory investigations and contractual disputesand take even greater care in crafting public statements, internal announcements and litigation-related filings that could attract media interest.

In such a fraught landscape for enterprises of all sizes, here are a few key considerations when developing a communications strategy to support a clients legal strategy:

Tone is critical: All messaging in court filings must be aligned with the times and aligned with the substance and tone of other corporate messaging. This may mean adjusting certain assertions and language that could be deemed insensitive in light of global events. If business goals or corporate marketing and other outreach strategies have been altered due to COVID-19, for instance, any legal filings should reflect updated corporate messaging as appropriate, or at least not contradict it.

Written words matter: Now that legal proceedings have returned to in-person settings, the media covering them may still be relying on web video, audio and/or electronic filings. Its always best practice to draft legal filings that convey your position in a manner thats compelling, clear and user-friendly to reporters.

This article is featured in O'Dwyer's Jan. '24 Crisis Communications & PR Buyer's Guide Magazine

(view PDF version)

Fewer outlets and fewer court reporters: It has never been more crucial to take the time necessary to truly tailor a pitch about a legal matter to individual reporters and their specific approaches and areas of interest. Given consolidation amongor staff reductions atnational business media outlets and the closing of many local news platforms, fewer reporters may be covering legal issues and still fewer may be assigned to the courts where a clients legal proceedings will occur. This challenge requires more in-depth research to identify journalists who may be interested in your clients legal matter, while also making it harder to attract coverage if thats the desired strategy.

On the other hand, the shrinking number of news outlets and journalists may increase the likelihood that a clients legal development falls under the medias radar and doesnt receive meaningful coverage. Todays legal media environment may work in your favor if this is a clients desired outcome. However, because social media may provide unwelcome public exposure with no warning that could quickly ignite traditional media attention, its always best to plan for the worst possible outcomeincluding incoming inquiries from traditional media outletswhile hoping for the best.

Maintain privilege and confidentiality: Given the propensity of leaks via social media platforms, communications professionals must ensure that all relevant materials and correspondence with in-house and external legal counsel are appropriately marked to preserve privilege. Additionally, given the greater numbers of employees working remotely on less-than-secure Wi-Fi connections, assume that confidential documents and emails could leak and draft and distribute documents with appropriate amounts of care.

Plan, yet be nimble: Effective litigations communications requires anticipating the next steps in the legal process as well as other unrelated corporate issues that may attract increased scrutiny from regulators, the media and the public. For these expected developments, businesses should prepare appropriate messaging and communications materials in advance. But at a time when the future is so uncertain and business goals, tactics and strategies could change quickly, enterprises must also be able to nimbly respond to new concerns and developments as they arise. Moreover, real-time coordination and cooperation between operations, legal and communications teams will be paramount for the foreseeable future.

Communications strategy surrounding litigation has an increasing potential to significantly shape a companys reputation among its key stakeholders and impact its future course. To be effective, communications professionals must incorporate the ways in which audiences, information sharing, court procedures and the news cycle are changing as conflict and unrest are on the rise.

KARV has deep experience in designing and implementing strategic communications programs that support a clients litigation strategy. With 2024 looking to be chock full of uncertainty, change and challenges, we remain ready to support clients as they navigate any and all types of legal situations.

***

Eric Andrus is Executive Vice President at KARV, a strategic and communications advisory firm specializing in issues management, corporate communications, litigation support, and crisis communications with offices in New York City and Los Angeles.
An Offaly influencer has revealed the reason she has ended up on crutches, resulting in in her missing out on a trip to Galway.

"Well lads I've had better weeks I'm not going to lie," Rachel Gorry laughed as she pointed to her injured leg.

And she explained the bizarre way she got injured

"I was trying to catch a balloon,' she laughed.

"I was playing with my friend's son... we were messing with the balloons that she got for his birthday and there was no weight on it so he kept letting it up to the ceiling, and they've got quite high ceilings.'

'And I was able to stand up on the couch and grab it but it went a little bit too far up and I thought if I jumped off the couch and grabbed it then I'd be able to give him back the balloon and it would be grand,' she said.

But I landed funny on my heel,' Rachel outlined, damaging ligaments and bruising her bone. "And I didn't even catch the balloon, which I was more raging about.'

The mum-of-three created her Instagram account at the beginning of 2020, while she was working in interior design and is now a well-established influencer in Ireland.
Protesters marched their way through Roscrea on Saturday to protest at the housing of international protection applicants in Racket Hall, the sole hotel in the town.

USE ARROWS OR NEXT BUTTON TO SEE MORE PICTURES

Captured photos and videos depict hundreds of protesters marching through the town as they articulate their objection to the closure of Racket Hall Hotel.

The protest route commenced from the hotel on the Old Dublin Road, culminating in speakers addressing the assembly on Castle Street. Leading the procession were individuals carrying a banner with the slogan 'Ireland is full', among others, including: 'We want action not promises' and 'It could be your town next'.

The crowd were then addressed by a number of speakers, including Independent Tipperary TDs Mattie McGrath and Michael Lowry.

James Kirwin, a vocal protester, stated on RTE Radio 1 last Monday that their issue is not with the asylum seekers, but rather with the government. "The hotel is a huge part of this town, it's the only hotel we have left," he stated.

"This is an action against the government of the Republic of Ireland," he added. "Roscrea is now holding 85% of asylum seekers in Tipperary, [and] the knock-on effect is just huge".

Craig Phelan, another protester, spoke of their determination to continue the protest, saying: "Our protest will continue until someone from that government comes to speak to us. The people of Roscrea won't allow it to continue.

"We have done loads, more than our share; it has to be capped. Let the people already here integrate into the town properly."

Regarding the housing of asylum seekers, Minister O'Gorman explained on RTE Radio 1, that those to be housed in Racket Hall Hotel will be families and female applicants.

He acknowledged the distress experienced by asylum seekers, particularly children witnessing scuffles between protesters and gardai, especially after the arrest on one protester.
ONE of the most tumultuous weeks in the modern history of Roscrea came to a climax on Saturday, when several thousand people flooded the town to show support for the ongoing protest over the loss of the Racket Hall Hotel.

Large scale protests in rural Ireland are often a harbinger or symptom of upheaval, however one thing was very clear in Roscrea on Saturday - the people of the town are united and determined to achieve improvements to benefit everyone living and working in Roscrea.

Against an initial barrage of criticism and unwarranted accusations across the national media and online, the people of Roscrea remained steadfast and slowly a clearer picture emerged to outside observers.

It revealed Roscrea has suffered from a litany of failures to ensure essential resources such as adequate Garda manpower and dental and medical services are preserved, and highlighted the dearth of communication between the high echelons of government and local elected representatives.

For many in Roscrea the closure of the Racket Hall was a bridge too far and motivated many local people, whose usual character would be quiet and reserved, to uncharacteristically engage in civil disobedience and put up a fight against the state.

But it was the subsequent scenes where the Garda Public Order unit tackled local people outside the hotel on Monday of last week that galvanised their determination to make their stand and make their voices heard.

Frightened and overwhelmed and feeling castigated and deeply misunderstood they decided to fight on and arranged their protest march for Saturday, which received much greater support than they had anticipated.

Beginning outside the Racket Hall Hotel the march set off headed for the town centre at 2:30pm and met local and Dail representatives on Castle Street, where they addressed the very large crowd from the plinth outside Lily O'Brien's pub and in the shadow of Roscrea Castle.

The marching protest winds from the Old Dublin Road onto Lourdes Road as they made their way from Racket Hall Hotel to the town centre. Photo: PJ Wright

Independent Dail Deputies Michael Lowry, Mattie McGrath and Carol Nolan were joined by local Councillor, Shane Lee and protest organiser James Gleeson, where they thanked everyone for braving the very wet and windy advance of Storm Isha to support Roscrea.

Addressing accusations of racism, Mr McGrath said locals would be happy to welcome people to the town - but only if resources and amenities were in place to do so.

"I have tried my best to defend your honour and your name when you were besmirched by national media and by others saying you were racist," Deputy McGrath said.

"There's not a racist person in this town," he said.

Deputy McGrath said one of the strengths of protests in Roscrea was how they united people of across the generations and pointed to children with their parents and grandparents taking part.

Independent Tipperary TD, Mattie McGrath, addresses the people of Roscrea during Saturday's demonstration. Photo: PJ Wright

"You want to protest your amenities, look after the people that are already here and to integrate the new people coming to Roscrea when we have the resources.

Deputy McGrath said the people of Roscrea have demanded that Minister Roderic O'Gorman come to Roscrea and meet the newly formed committee to steer the protest.

"I salute your resolve - I support you anyway I can", Deputy McGrath said.

Deputy Michael Lowry, who estimated the crowd at the start of his address to number 5,000 people, criticised the government's plans to purchase and reopen the Damer Court Hotel (formerly Grant's) which has been closed since 2013 as a community model hotel.

He described it as an "on the hoof" reaction to the protests and said "rabbits out of hats" will not be the solution to issues in Roscrea.

"The facts are that Roscrea has taken its share, Roscrea has been very welcoming to hundreds of refugees, Roscrea's services here are completely overburdened," he said.

Calling for improved Garda, health and educational services for the town, he added: "The people of Roscrea are ready to integrate people, you have done your bit, you have done your share, there is no racism here, there's no anti-immigration here.

"But what we are looking for is fair play, we're looking for the resources to manage what we have already.

"The people of the town are concerned to hold their identity, to hold the character of the town and to hold the camaraderie and the community spirit that it was always acknowledged for.

"We need more doctors, we need more dentists, we need more nurses and we need better access to medical care", Deputy Lowry said.

Deputy Michael Lowry addresses the demonstration in Roscrea. Also pictured is Councillor Shane Lee (centre) and protest organiser James Gleeson (right). Photo: PJ Wright

Deputy Lowry pointed to the new Primary Care Centre on Gaol Road, which was completed in November and set to open in July, as a sign of a better future in Roscrea and said "more than ever now we need more medical services in Roscrea.

"We need more classrooms, we need more space for the children, we need more teachers and above all we need recreational facilities for the people in Roscrea and who require an outlet for their energy and to enjoy the time that they have.

"Let me compliment you on your conduct and responsibility so far - the people of Roscrea are ready to integrate people, you have done your bit and done your share. There is no racism here, there is no anti-immigration here and what we're looking for is fair play and the resources to manage what we have already", Deputy Lowry said.

Deputy Carol Nolan, a rural independent TD from neighbouring Offaly, said she watched the scenes unfold while she was in hospital and they angered her so much "I was fit to jump out of the bed and come down to Roscrea".

"I can see today the spirit of Sean Treacy and Dan Breen lives on here in Roscrea and I'm with you the whole way", Deputy Nolan said.

Independent Offaly TD, Carol Nolan, speaks during heavy rain and strong winds and is watched by Racket Hall protest organiser, James Gleeson. Photo: PJ Wright

Independent Tipperary County Councillor and Roscrea man, Shane Lee, told the crowd they were witnessing a day "that will go down in history".

He described the scenes which unfolded outside Racket Hall on Monday of last week as an "absolute disgrace" and said the narrative about Roscrea "was turned on its head by all the men, women and children who stood up together for what is best for this town".

"We spoke about balance, we spoke about fairness, but yet we weren't listened to" and said the national media attempted to portray Roscrea as "thugs".

"That's not what I represent - I represent decent families and genuine people and a community that stood together and said 'we're not backing down'".

Councillor Lee thanked the local media for what he described as coverage which gave Roscrea and the townspeople "a fair hearing, an honest hearing and a balanced hearing".

Protest organiser James Gleeson also introduced people from foreign countries who have lived and worked in Roscrea and made a happy life here.

Read the full speeches and see our extensive coverage and picture gallery in this week's edition of the Midland Tribune (on sale Jan 24)

People supporting the demonstration in Roscrea over the loss of the Racket Hall Hotel filled Market Square and Castle Street. Photo: PJ Wright
Two people injured as result of Russia's morning strike on Kramatorsk

The number of people injured as a result of a missile attack on Kramatorsk, Donetsk region, this morning increased to two, Head of Donetsk Regional Military Administration Vadym Filashkin has said.

"One person was killed and two people were injured  these are the updates on the strike against Kramatorsk," he said on the Telegram channel on Monday.

The injured people have received necessary medical aid and do not need inpatient treatment, the official said.

Filashkin recalled that this morning "the Russian forces launched an Iskander blast fragmentation missile to strike the town. Seven apartment buildings, three enterprises and three social infrastructure facilities were damaged."
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk invited Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal to Warsaw (Poland) to resume intergovernmental consultations.

"I am grateful to the Prime Minister for the invitation to pay an official visit to Warsaw and to hold relevant intergovernmental consultations and meetings in Warsaw," Shmyhal said at a briefing with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Kyiv on Monday.

According to Tusk, the resumption of intergovernmental consultations will help avoid any tensions between the countries.
The Ministry of Justice of Ukraine reported that a Chinese construction company transferred almost UAH 500 million of guarantee funds to the accounts of the State Agency for Reconstruction and Infrastructure Development and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development following a court decision.

"On January 17, 2024, funds totaling almost half a billion hryvnia in U.S. dollar equivalent were transferred by the Bank of China to the account of the State Agency for Reconstruction and Infrastructure Development and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The case is closed," Deputy Minister of Justice Iryna Mudra is quoted as saying in the press release.

According to the Ministry of Justice, in October 2023, the court rejected the Chinese Xinjiang Communications Construction Group's three appeals in the case of non-fulfillment of the contract and recognized as valid the decision of the court of first instance, which confirmed the existence of absolute immunity on the Ukrainian side. On December 19, 2023, the court also canceled three decisions to secure the claim, unblocking the payment of guarantee funds to the State Agency.

As reported, contracts between Ukravtodor (now the State Agency for Reconstruction and Infrastructure Development) and the Chinese state-owned company Xinjiang Communications Construction Group for repair work on the M-12 highway and reconstruction and overhaul of the M-03 highway were concluded in 2017. The contracts were secured by contractor guarantees from the Bank of China in the amount of $8.5 million, as well as a guarantee of the return of an advance on one contract for $3.85 million.

Later, in 2018 and 2019, Ukravtodor terminated contracts with the company due to failure to comply with the work schedule and improper maintenance of the road section, which led to its accident. After termination of the contracts, the contractor had to return guarantee funds in the amount of $8.5 million to Ukravtodor, as well as $3.85 million to the World Bank.
Malta, 16 January 2024: BGaming, a trailblazer in iGaming content production, is set to unveil a spectacular art collaboration with British muralist Mr Cenz at ICE London 2024, promising a 'futuristic and funky' artistic showcase.

The much-anticipated collaboration between BGaming and Mr Cenz, a veteran graffitist from the UK, is poised to be a highlight at ICE London 2024. Known for his vibrant and dynamic street art, Mr Cenz brings a fresh perspective to BGaming's popular game characters, including Elvis Frog, Penny Pelican, Book of Cats, and Aztec Magic. This unique fusion of art and gaming showcases hand-drawn designs and spray-painted artworks, blending traditional graffiti with digital artistry. The BGaming booth will feature these innovative creations, offering attendees a glimpse into the intersection of art and gaming.

A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration

This year's 'When Art Meets Gaming' initiative marks the second year of BGaming's artistic endeavors. Following the success of their 2023 displays at various international gaming events, BGaming continues to push the boundaries of creativity. The collaboration with Mr Cenz is more than just an art exhibit; it's a testament to BGaming's commitment to crafting immersive and engaging gaming experiences. Visitors can expect large-scale art installations, limited-edition merchandise, and partner gifts adorned with Mr Cenz's distinctive artwork.

Showcasing Innovation and Growth

In addition to the artistic showcase, BGaming will present its latest game release, Aztec Clusters. Developed with insights from Casinolytics, this game highlights BGaming's innovative approach to iGaming. The company's presence at ICE London 2024 follows a remarkable year of growth, marked by a 95% increase in global gaming revenue (GGR), numerous award wins, and expansion into new markets. Marina Ostrovtsova, CEO of BGaming, expressed enthusiasm about the company's progress and its continued focus on creating unique player experiences through local artist collaborations.

A Fusion of Styles and Genres

Graffiti artist Mr Cenz shared his excitement about the project, noting the challenge and enjoyment in bringing BGaming's characters to life with his 'futuristic and funky' style. His approach, combining graffiti roots with an illustrative technique, offers a new interpretation of the characters, adding a layer of vibrancy and energy to the gaming experience.

Join the Artistic Journey at ICE London 2024

ICE London 2024 attendees can experience this unique artistic collaboration firsthand at BGaming's stand, N8-120, from 6th to 8th February 2024. The event promises to blend creative innovation and gaming excellence, showcasing BGaming's commitment to transforming gambling into an immersive and engaging gaming experience. With a portfolio

of over 100 products, BGaming stands at the forefront of the iGaming industry, offering high-definition graphics and user-friendly interfaces across various devices. Their dedication to innovation extends to supporting cryptocurrencies and providing Provably Fair games, setting new standards in the online gaming world.

A Leap into the Future of iGaming

The collaboration at ICE London 2024 is more than just an art exhibit; it's a bold statement from BGaming about the Future of iGaming. Integrating art with gaming, BGaming enhances the visual appeal of its games and creates a more immersive experience for players. This artistic venture highlights BGaming's commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, offering players games and a complete sensory experience.

BGaming at SBC Summit Barcelona: A Blend of Art and Gaming

BGaming made a resounding impression at SBC Summit Barcelona 2023, merging art with gaming in its 'When Art Meets Gaming' initiative. Collaborating with Spanish muralist Jay Kaes, BGaming showcased its unique artistic vision, amplifying its presence in the iGaming industry. This event also allowed BGaming to showcase its Spanish certification and latest gaming offerings, fostering new partnerships and strengthening existing ones in the iGaming world.

BGaming: Pioneering iGaming Excellence

BGaming's journey to becoming a leader in the iGaming content sector is marked by continuous innovation and a player-driven approach. The company's expertise in converting gambling into gaming has been recognized globally, with its products featured on reputable platforms and over 1,000 online casinos worldwide. Their pioneering role in supporting cryptocurrencies and offering Provably Fair games is a testament to their forward-thinking approach in the industry.

As BGaming continues to make its mark at ICE London 2024, integrating art and gaming signals a new era in the iGaming industry. This unique collaboration with Mr. Cenz is just one of the many ways BGaming is setting itself apart as a visionary in online gaming. Attendees at ICE London 2024 can look forward to an event that is not just about gaming but also about celebrating the fusion of creativity, technology, and innovation.
The Houthis in Yemen have been attacking ships in the Red Sea which are associated with Israel or the US in response to the ongoing genocide in Gaza being carried out by Israel, who is supported by the US with all weapons and funding. US President Joe Biden continues to refuse all international calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. Biden has formed a military coalition to attack Yemen, the poorest country on earth, with famine and disease rampant. In an effort to understand the situation,

Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Suat Delgen. Suat Delgen, a Defense Industry and Foreign Policy analyst, served for 16 years in the Naval Forces as a Staff Officer, undertaking project officer duties in various NATO and National Headquarters, as well as serving as a principal warfare officer and commanding officer on fast attack craft.

1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): The Houthis say they will continue attacking Israeli associated ships until there is a ceasefire declared in Gaza.?Can the US -led coalition against the Houthis succeed in stopping the attacks? Suat Delgen

(SD): The United States, as a global maritime power, plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of global trade routes. In light of the Houthis' attacks on Israeli-flagged ships and ships bound for Israel in the Red Sea and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait, these actions pose a significant challenge not only to regional stability but also to international maritime security, which the U.S. is keen to uphold. The initiation of the multinational Operation Prosperity Guardian on December 19, 2023, marks an important step in addressing this challenge. However, the operation's efficacy is constrained by its defensive nature and the limited rules of engagement, which do not extend to pre-emptive strikes against strategic Houthi targets. This limitation, in my opinion, contributed to the operation's inability to fully deter Houthi attacks. The situation took a significant turn with the UN Security Council's adoption of Resolution 2722, which, while not authorizing direct military action against the Houthis, underscored the international community's demand for a cessation of Houthi aggressions. Nevertheless, the subsequent direct military responses by the US and UK, bypassing the resolution's framework, seem to have only escalated the situation. This response, in my analysis, has not only failed to deter the Houthis but also appeared to garner them increased public sympathy, as evident from the large-scale demonstrations in Sanaa. From a military standpoint, the resource-intensive nature of countering Houthi attacks, particularly their use of cost-effective drones and missiles against expensive defense systems, presents a logistical and economic challenge. In my view, this imbalance could potentially lead to a strategic stalemate, where the reduction in the number of attacks might be achievable, but completely stopping them seems unlikely under the current strategy. In conclusion, while the joint US-UK military operations might curtail the frequency of Houthi attacks to some extent, the prospect of completely halting these attacks appears slim. It is my belief that the resolution of this conflict will require not just military might but also diplomatic efforts that address the underlying political complexities. The US's stance, especially considering its previous decision to delist the Houthis as a terrorist organization, suggests a potential preference for a non-escalatory approach. However, as with any conflict of this nature, the situation remains fluid and the outcomes uncertain."

2. SS: Some experts fear the situation in the Red Sea might escalate into a large-scale conflict. In your opinion, do you think Iran might face off against USA?

SD: In my opinion, the likelihood of the situation in the Red Sea escalating into a major conflict directly involving Iran and the USA is low. The strategic interests of the US in the Middle East, particularly with regard to its alliances with Gulf countries, play a crucial role in its decision-making process. A direct conflict, especially one that could be perceived as initiated by the US, risks jeopardizing these relationships and the broader stability of the region. Moreover, the US has significant investments in regional integration projects, such as the IMEC corridor, which aims to enhance trade and transport links between India, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. The success of such initiatives often hinges on regional stability and the support of key players like Saudi Arabia. As Saudi Arabia's participation in the Abraham Accords for normalization with Israel is a critical aspect of this regional integration, the US is likely to avoid actions that could hinder this process. Therefore, in my opinion, while the US is committed to countering Iran's influence in the region, it is more likely to pursue indirect measures rather than direct military confrontation. The aim would be to limit Iran's regional sway without triggering a large-scale conflict, aligning with the US's broader strategic objectives of maintaining stability and fostering diplomatic relations in the Middle East.

3. SS: Saudi Arabia declined The US invitation to join the collection against the Houthis. The Chinese brokered deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran seems to be a success. In your view, will this act protect the Saudi oil industry?

SD: The recent developments in Saudi-Iranian relations, particularly the normalization effort under Chinese mediation, represent a significant shift in the regional geopolitical landscape. In 2021, following the US decision to remove the Houthis from its terrorist list and to scale back support for the Saudi-led coalition, Saudi Arabia was compelled to explore alternative strategies to safeguard its national security and interests. This shift, in my opinion, has been instrumental in prompting Saudi Arabia to engage in normalization talks with Iran. The cessation of Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities, a consequence of the Saudi-Iranian rapprochement, has evidently contributed to a more secure environment for the Saudi oil industry. This stability is crucial for uninterrupted oil production and exports, which are central to the Saudi economy. Additionally, the improved relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran potentially enhance the security of key maritime routes like the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, which are vital for the global oil supply, including Saudi oil shipments. However, it is important to note that the situation remains fluid. The long-term success of this normalization and its impact on the security of the Saudi oil industry will depend on the sustained commitment of both parties to this de'tente and the influence of other regional and global actors. While the current scenario presents a positive outlook for the security of Saudi oil production, the dynamics of regional politics necessitate a cautious approach in predicting future outcomes.

4. SS: Reports say Israel's economy has been affected by the Houthi attack. In your opinion, how much does this damage the Israeli economy?

SD: The reported Houthi attacks on merchant ships in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and their implications for container traffic in the Red Sea have undoubtedly affected Israel's economy, particularly the operations at the port of Eilat. As one of Israel's key ports, Eilat plays a vital role in trade, especially with the Far East, India, and Australia. The port's significance in exporting minerals and importing goods like cattle and automobiles underscores its economic importance. The reported figures, such as a 40% reduction in container traffic in Bab el Mandeb and an 85% drop in revenues at Eilat, highlight a substantial impact. However, it's important to contextualize these numbers within the broader framework of Israel's maritime trade. The shift of container traffic to other major ports like Ashdod and Haifa may mitigate some of the immediate economic impacts. These ports' continued operation is critical in ensuring that Israel does not face significant supply problems. Nonetheless, the situation at the port of Eilat represents a specific economic loss for Israel. The reduction in activity there, especially in automobile imports(EVC) and mineral exports, has immediate and tangible economic consequences. While the overall resilience of the Israeli economy may help in weathering these challenges, the situation underscores the broader economic vulnerabilities that arise from regional conflicts. In conclusion, while the ports of Ashdod and Haifa continue to operate, mitigating some of the broader supply concerns, the impact on Eilat and the specific sectors it serves represents a notable economic setback for Israel. As in any conflict situation, the dynamics are fluid, and the long-term economic implications will depend on the duration and intensity of these disruptions.

5. SS: The Houthis are threatening the UAE and other countries that had a role in the coalition attack on Yemen. In your opinion, will the situation in the Red Sea escalate?

SD: The adoption of UNSC Resolution 2722 has indeed heightened international pressure on the Houthis, which could influence their strategic calculations. Considering their ambition to consolidate power in Yemen and establish themselves as a regional actor, the Houthis might be cautious about escalating conflicts to a point where they confront the entire international community. However, their targeting of Israeli and US ships has been a tactic to increase their popularity and political support within Arab societies and Yemen. This aspect can't be overlooked, as it plays into their regional political strategy. In the near term, adhering to UNSC Resolution 2722, such as releasing the Galaxy Leader ship, could be a strategic move to reduce immediate international pressure while maintaining their stance.Despite these maneuvers, I believe it is unlikely that the current tensions will escalate into a broader regional conflict involving major players like Iran and the UAE. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have demonstrated a cautious approach towards the Houthis, likely aiming to avoid further destabilization of the region. In conclusion, while the Houthis may continue to pose a threat through sporadic targeting of US and Israeli ships, the overall situation in the Red Sea is more likely to be characterized by a cautious balance rather than outright escalation. This balance is precarious, however, and the actions of the Houthis, as well as the responses of regional and international actors, will be crucial in determining the future dynamics in the region.

Steven Sahiounie is a two-time award-winning journalist
Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob Kall's book is amazing. He's created a real breakthrough, visionary how-to for a sustainable, quality future. Like Saul Alinski's Rules for Radicals, this book is destined to become a classic must-read for all those concerned with social, economic, and environmental justice in today's interconnected world. Story shapes the world and our world needs new stories if we are to survive and thrive. The story of the bottom-up evolution and revolution is one that can change individuals, groups, businesses, religions, and governments for the positive as it shows how bottom-up inclusiveness, connectedness, collaboration, empathy, innovation, and freeform creativity can help unleash the great potentials for good inherent in our very nature. If you want to improve things in your world and the world, first read this book, then apply the suggestions. Change is sure to come."



Pamela Jaye Smith, mythologist and author of InnerDrives, Power of the Dark Side, Symbols* Images* Codes* and award-winning writer-producer-director
Within the past five years, China has significantly expanded its ongoing nuclear modernization program by fielding more types and greater numbers of nuclear weapons.

In a little under a year, China has continued to develop its three new missile silo fields for solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles, expanded the construction of new silos for its liquid-fuel DF-5 ICBMs, has been developing new variants of ICBMs and advanced strategic delivery systems, and has likely produced excess warheads for eventual upload onto these systems once they are deployed. China has also further expanded its dual-capable DF-26 intermediate-range ballistic missile force, which appears to have completely replaced the medium-range DF-21 in the nuclear role.

China has been refitting its Type 094 ballistic missile submarines at sea with the longer-range JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile. In addition, China has recently reassigned an operational nuclear mission to its bombers and is developing an air-launched ballistic missile that might have nuclear capability. China's nuclear expansion is among the nine nuclear-armed states' largest and most rapid modernization campaigns.

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists estimates that China has produced a stockpile of approximately 440 nuclear warheads for delivery by land-based ballistic missiles, sea-based ballistic missiles, and bombers. Roughly 60 or more warheads are thought to have been produced, with more in production, to arm additional road-mobile and silo-based missiles and bombers eventually.

If expansion continues at the current rate, the Pentagon's previous projections say that China might field a stockpile of about 1,500 nuclear warheads by 2035. These projections depend on many uncertain factors - how many missile silos China will ultimately build, how many silos China will load with missiles, how many warheads each missile will carry, how many DF-26 intermediate-range ballistic missiles will be deployed, and how many of them will have a nuclear mission, how many missile submarines China will field and how many warheads each missile will carry, how many bombers China will operate and how many weapons each will carry, and assumptions about the future production of fissile materials by China.

Several US government estimates about China's nuclear weapons stockpile growth have previously proven inaccurate, as stated by writers Hans M. Kristensen, Matt Korda, Eliana Johns, Mackenzie Knight in their story "Chinese Nuclear Weapons, 2024." Like most other nuclear-armed states, China has never publicly disclosed the size of its nuclear arsenal or much of the infrastructure that supports it. The data for this story was obtained from Kristensen, Korda, Johns, and Knight's story.

However, one must ask what motivates China, an old civilization, once one of the world's greatest, until it fell behind the West and was subservient to it. The Chinese have changed over the decades. Since the free-market reforms of the 1970's, the Chinese economy has come roaring back, and the country is seeking a larger military role in the Asia and the world, as it seeks to be a military hegemon in Asia. China is also flexing its muscle in the diplomatic world by building stronger relationships with poor countries; it will naturally develop a bond with these countries because it arose from poverty. China also presents an alternative political model that can redefine the rules of the international system. Its more aggressive posture ignited a power-balancing act where China and its ally, Russia, sought to check the United States and its allies. Unfortunately, we're in another Cold War, and military budgets are increasing worldwide.

Samuel Huntington stated in his book "The Clash of Civilizations" that multilateralism does not define China's views of international relations. Its views are shaped by its history, the days when the Middle Kingdom was the primary power and other states were tributary powers.

While China's history and outlook differ from the Western world, there is some reason for hope. The country has signaled to the US that it's interested in cooperating with the US to regulate artificial intelligence in the nuclear domain. This might be a starting point. Why would a state with its history want to negotiate with a Western state? Because it realizes that the regulation of artificial intelligence enhances its security, and it also realizes how dangerous nuclear weapons are.

Huntington didn't understand how many people in foreign cultures are open to Western ideas. Russia, an Orthodox culture, at least since the fall of Communism, showed a Western orientation in the days of Boris Yeltsin and in the later Soviet era of Michail Gorbachev. Ideas are powerful - spread through the cultural interchange and not best spread through war (remember America's Iraq experience) - and can change a culture.

In time, Western ideas could change China. The challenge will be waiting for those ideas to seep into Chinese culture and avoiding a disastrous war between China's allies and the US. A deal on artificial intelligence would be a wonderful place to start.

Jason Sibert is the Lead Writer for the Peace Economy Project
During an air raid siren related to the activity of enemy tactical aviation in the south of Ukraine, Russian Su-34 fighter jet fired an X-59 guided aviation missile, the press service of the command of the Defense Forces of southern Ukraine reports.

"The missile was destroyed by the air defense forces in Mykolaiv region," the message posted on the Telegram channel says.

As a result of falling debris from a downed rocket, a fire broke out in the ceiling of an unused building. The fire was promptly eliminated by specialists of the State Emergency Service.

"There was no information about the victims," the report says.
If Pres. Lula Quoted Martin Luther King "Greatest Purveyor of Violence in the World is My Own Government,"

If, On Martin Luther King's Birthday and U.S. National Holiday, President Luiz Ina'cio Lula da Silva of Brazil could have quoted from King's mainstream media covered up 1967 New York sermon 'Beyond Vietnam - a Time to Break Silence,' which condemned his government's atrocity wars to protect predatory investments, he might have started by quoting what King said about Latin America.





King bitterly lamented:





The war in Vietnam is but a symptom of a far deeper malady within the American spirit" we will find ourselves organizing Clergy and Laymen Concerned committees concerned about Guatemala and Peru. They will be concerned about Thailand and Cambodia" During the past ten years we have seen emerge a pattern of suppression which now has justified the presence of U.S. military "advisors" in Venezuela. This need to maintain social stability for our investments accounts for the counter- revolutionary action of American forces in Guatemala. It tells why American helicopters are being used against guerrillas in Colombia and why American napalm and green beret forces have already been active against rebels in Peru.[1])





Lula would have shocked listeners in Brazil and abroad who only think of Rev. King as a great black civil rights leader. Rev. Martin Luther King, today the only American celebrity with the distinction of a national weekend holiday to honour his birthday, in 1967, made bold print headlines in newspapers across the world of King loudly denouncing his very own U.S. government.

KING CALLS U.S."GREATEST PURVEYOR OF VIOLENCE IN WORLD"[1]





"So far we may have killed a million of them-- mostly children" children, degraded by our soldiers as they beg for food. They see the children selling their sisters to our soldiers, soliciting for their mothers."[1]





In his sermon (which was vilified in the U.S. press), King did not speak to his government, but to all Americans, and agonised over his not having spoken up sooner.

Martin Luther King had cried out





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If Pres. Petro Quoted Martin Luther King "U.S. Helicopters Are Being Used Against Guerrillas in Colombia"

If, On Martin Luther King's Birthday and U.S. National Holiday, President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego of Columbia had quoted from King's mainstream media covered up 1967 New York sermon 'Beyond Vietnam - a Time to Break Silence,' which condemned his government's atrocity wars to protect predatory investments, he might start by quoting what King said about his own country Columbia:

"This need to maintain social stability for our investments accounts"tells why American helicopters are being used against guerrillas in Colombia"[1]

(The full passage of which King spoke was:

The war in Vietnam is but a symptom of a far deeper malady within the American spirit" we will find ourselves organizing Clergy and Laymen Concerned committees concerned about Guatemala and Peru. They will be concerned about Thailand and Cambodia" During the past ten years we have seen emerge a pattern of suppression which now has justified the presence of U.S. military "advisors" in Venezuela. This need to maintain social stability for our investments accounts for the counter- revolutionary action of American forces in Guatemala. It tells why American helicopters are being used against guerrillas in Colombia and why American napalm and green beret forces have already been active against rebels in Peru.[1])

Columbian President Gustavo Petro could have shocked listeners in Columbia and abroad who only think of Rev. King as a great black civil rights leader. Rev. Martin Luther King, today the only American celebrity with the distinction of a national weekend holiday to honour his birthday, in 1967, made bold print headlines in newspapers across the world of King loudly denouncing his very own U.S. government.

KING CALLS U.S."GREATEST PURVEYOR OF VIOLENCE IN WORLD"[1]

"So far we may have killed a million of them-- mostly children" children, degraded by our soldiers as they beg for food. They see the children selling their sisters to our soldiers, soliciting for their mothers."[1]

In his sermon (which was vilified in the U.S. press), King did not speak to his government, but to all Americans, and agonised over his not having spoken up sooner.

Martin Luther King had cried out

"A time comes when silence is betrayal. And that time has come for us in relation to Vietnam." [1]

So what would Rev. King have said to or about Americans since his assassination continuing to bring massive death and destruction to so many more small countries and the use of dire health crippling sanctions against smaller countries seeking social reforms of the U.S. imposed poverty causing private corporate capitalist exploitation of their indigenous resources, the recent and ongoing wars on the citizens and their children in Yemen, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan, and the U.S. provided for and defended genocide in Gaza and murderous military occupation of all Palestinians?

President Petro has echoed Martin Luther King's depiction of America as violent in his call for U.S. President Biden to end the genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, while US State Dept says "not seeing acts of genocide" in Gaza.[2]

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Granada "clearly withheld information about the violations from parents until notified by LAUSD. This lack of transparency, especially regarding potential safety hazards, is a major breach of trust and undermines parental right to informed decision-making."



-- - BD3 candidate Andreas Farmakalidis

Andreas Farmakalidis is one of four candidates who will appear on the March ballot opposing Scott Schmerelson. Janie Dam is also running a write-in campaign to unseat the incumbent. Farmakalidis' website can be found at www.lausd3.com.

Farmakalidis has participated in all of the past iterations of the ongoing Candidate Forum series: PROP-39 co-locations, Special Education policies, and District Governance. For the December edition of the series, the questions focus on student safety issues. For background information about the questions, please see the introductory article: LAUSD Candidate Forum: Student Safety.

The following are Farmakalidis' responses, published as provided with only minor formatting changes:

In non-emergency situations, should uniformed police officers be operating on LAUSD campuses? Leaning Towards YES

The presence of uniformed police officers on LAUSD campuses has been a subject of considerable debate.

Proponents argue that having officers on campus provides a visible deterrent to potential threats and can swiftly respond to emergencies, ensuring a safer environment for students, teachers, and staff. They also contend that officers can serve as positive role models, engaging with students to foster better relationships between law enforcement and the community. Moreover, their presence can address issues beyond safety, such as educating students about law enforcement and deterring criminal behavior.

On the other hand, students and parents/staff express concerns about the potential negative impacts of police presence on school campuses. They argue that it contributes to the criminalization of students for minor infractions, leading to the school-to-prison pipeline phenomenon. Some worry that the presence of officers may create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation among students, particularly those from marginalized communities. Additionally, there are concerns about the disproportionate enforcement of disciplinary actions on students of color.

A potential solution that seeks to address both perspectives involves a comprehensive approach to school safety. This approach could include a blend of law enforcement presence for security purposes, coupled with increased investment in mental health resources, counselors, and restorative justice programs. These additional resources can help address the underlying issues behind behavioral problems, promoting a supportive and inclusive school environment while ensuring a proactive response to safety concerns.

While considering these perspectives, leaning toward the presence of uniformed officers on campus seems reasonable to maintain security measures and provide a rapid response to potential threats. However, it's crucial to implement additional measures that prioritize the well-being and support of students, thereby creating a balanced approach to school safety.

The Superintendent has commented "that unacceptable and preventable frequency of vehicular incidents are impacting the health, well-being and safety of our children." Is the District doing enough to prevent these incidents? NO

The safety of students must remain the top priority for any educational institution. It's critical to acknowledge that even one incident involving a student due to vehicular accidents is one too many. Losing students or putting their well-being at risk due to accidents that might have been preventable with enhanced preparation and measures in place is a distressing prospect.

Schools should continuously reassess and fortify their safety protocols to minimize any potential risks. The collaboration between the District, police and the city council becomes even more essential in this context. Their combined efforts should focus on creating a comprehensive safety framework that leaves no room for oversight or gaps in protecting students from vehicular incidents.

The impact of a tragedy resulting from a lack of adequate preparation is not just a loss for the affected student and their family; it affects the entire school community. It's incumbent upon educational authorities to proactively address these concerns, leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the safety measures are robust, well-implemented, and continually updated to adapt to changing circumstances.

The collaboration between the District and the city council should reflect a commitment to proactive planning, adequate resource allocation, and swift implementation of measures that safeguard the lives of students. Every student deserves a secure environment where their safety is paramount, and it's the responsibility of the educational authorities to ensure no child is put in harm's way due to inadequate safety preparations.

Last year an LAUSD student overdosed on fentanyl that was provided to her by a student at a co-located charter school. Do multiple schools that do not share a common leadership structure increase the possibility that hazards will not be fully mitigated? YES

It's a difficult situation as I personally know members of the family affected by the incident. The occurrence of a student overdosing on fentanyl is truly tragic, highlighting significant worries about safety protocols, particularly in co-located schools lacking a unified leadership structure

When multiple schools in a co-located setting operate independently without a shared leadership structure, it can create challenges in ensuring consistent and comprehensive safety measures. Varied leadership and differing protocols between schools may lead to gaps in oversight and communication, potentially hindering the identification and mitigation of hazards.

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Decline text on calculator screen on the hundred dollar bills

(Image by focusonmore.com from flickr) Details DMCA



The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Financial Times reports, "is proposing to cap overdraft fees at as low as $3, potentially saving consumers billions of dollars a year and stepping up US President Joe Biden's war on so-called junk fees ahead of the 2024 election."

The simple version, for those unfamiliar with overdraft fees:

You have $100 in your bank account. You write a check or swipe your debit card for a purchase coming to $101. Instead of bouncing the check or declining the debit transaction, the bank covers the overage (bringing your account balance to $-1) and charges you an additional fee (putting your account even more into negative territory). Later, when you deposit your $500 paycheck, your account balance goes up not by $500, but by $500 minus that dollar overdraft and the fee.

The "problem" of overdraft fees (which can indeed be onerous -- the Indiana Business Journal says they averaged $26.61, and could go as high as $39, last year) has always had two simple, easy, and long-used solutions.

The first such solution is for customers to not attempt to spend more money than they have in their accounts.

The second is for banks to decline overdraft transactions.

In fact, many if not most banks already offer "no overdraft checking accounts" which inform the customer up front that overdraft transactions WILL be declined.

An even simpler explanation of overdrafts: They're instant loans from your bank, and the fees are service and interest charges on those loans.

Don't want to pay those service and interest charges? Don't borrow the money. If you don't trust yourself to not borrow the money, open an account that won't LET you borrow the money. "Problem" solved.

Sometimes it's hard to tell whether the CFPB's mission is to actively and intentionally make life harder for poor people (as with its war on "payday loan" operations), or whether that's just a side effect of good-hearted but idiotic and unnecessary ideas. Even though I oppose giving the CFPB any power whatsoever or even allowing it to exist at all, I'm going to generously start from the latter premise here.

Some people occasionally see a need to overdraft their accounts. Maybe rent comes due on the first of the month, but a paycheck isn't going to hit until the third of the month, and an unexpected emergency room bill put the customer in a cash crunch situation.

Capping overdraft fees may seem helpful, but will actually result in more banks simply not allowing overdrafts at all -- in the rent hypothetical described above, likely costing the customer more due to late fees owed the landlord.

The cap proposal won't "protect consumers." It's about pretending to protect them for political gain, but working to their actual detriment.


The pine cone revolution in Pine Bush.

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By Bob Gaydos

Ivan Pavlov, who knew a bit about how to figure things out, had this bit of advice which can apply equally to journalists as well as scientists: "Don't become a mere recorder of facts, but try to penetrate the mystery of their origin."

In a week of mysteries (to me, at least), the big mystery around my neck of upstate New York right now is why there are so many pine cones on the ground. Even allowing for recent rainy weather, it's been a mystery since the phenomenon started appearing on our property in the fall. Hundreds of cones were strewn about, still are, and social media chatter confirms that lots of neighbors have remarked on the same phenomenon, alternately complaining and wondering what to do with them.

Responding as Pavlov would have me do, I tried to find answers, which proved to be not that simple. For me, the easiest answer to the pine cone glut appears to be evolution, which is both common sense and remarkable. The theory is that every two or three years (called "mast years"), pine trees produce far more than their normal number of cones, which contain seeds, in order to throw off the seed-gathering routine of their natural predators, such as squirrels, insects and birds, thus assuring the likelihood of enough seeds surviving and turning into future pine trees.

Survival of the species. Something that is still taught in our schools. I think this is pretty darn clever of the pines, if you don't mind crunching on the cones while you walk your dog, which I don't. Mind, that is.

What I do mind very much is a mystery which I have been struggling to understand for more than eight years. That is how an amoral, self-obsessed con man with no understanding of or regard for the Constitution has captured the minds and votes and loyalty of so many Americans.

That phenomenon played out again in Iowa this week as Donald Trump swept the Republican caucuses for the party's presidential nomination without even participating in any debates. Instead, he gave speeches about ordering mass deportations on his first day in office, if re-elected, talked about getting revenge on his enemies, and insisted he was immune from prosecution for the 91 felonies with which he is charged, many of which stem from his continued lie that the 2020 election was stolen from him.

The mystery to me in Iowa (though not exclusively there) is that more than 90 percent of Republicans who said they voted for Trump also said they believed Joe Biden was not their legally elected president. This, after all the evidence produced to the contrary over nearly four years.

Following Pavlov's suggestion, I think the origin of this magical, self-deluding thinking might be found in the failure of schools and religious institutions in Iowa (and elsewhere) to actually fulfill their purported missions. Certainly, there has been little obvious evolutionary progress in many states in the development of tolerance and respect for others or for the value of actually learning something in school. Anyway, that's my operating theory.

The operating theory behind that theory is that it's all about wealth and power. Control what people are taught and you can control the people and how they think and vote and there are wealthy, influential people behind the scenes doing just that within today's Republican Party.

The other mystery of the week took place in Denmark, where Queen Margrethe, the longest reigning monarch in Europe, which is big on monarchies, abdicated her throne to her son, Crown Prince Fredrick.

My puzzlement is not so much over the 83-year-old queen turning over the keys to the kingdom to her son after 52 years of ruling, but rather why there is still a royal family being treated royally in Denmark.

While the queen's role is purely ceremonial, with no connection whatever to the government, many Danes apparently like the history, fairy tales and traditions associated with their country, home of fairytale master Hans Christian Andersen. A kind of once-upon-a-time power.

Margrethe was also very popular for her earthiness and rapport with other, non-royal, Danes. Some said they felt she explained to the world what Danes were all about.

For this contribution to the Danish reputation, the royal family received 88.9 million Danish crowns, or a bit more than $13 million, in tax funds in 2022, a pittance, compared to what British royalty receives, but still, we're talking millions.

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Why is Namibia furious at Germany's ICJ intervention supporting Israel? | Inside Story Namibia has condemned Germany's backing of Israel against genocide charges at the International Court of Justice. It says, given ...

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[I am using an Al Jazeera News Video about Namibia objecting to Germany having any presence in the Hague International Court Proceedings. Deutschland Unter Alle has one Judge on that court]

78th UN General Assembly/Emergency Session, voted in December 2022 to request that the ICJ, as organ of the UN, issue advisory opinion about Israeli policy in the Palestine violated international law. Several other Nations have submitted written comments on the UNGA request, including Jordan, Qatar, Belize, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Egypt. I asked a lot more than that to weigh in on this urgent matter, at least as FRIENDS OF THE COURT, or Amicus Curiae in Latin.
Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

Dr. Hamad Saif al-Shamsi, Attorney General of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has referred 84 individuals with alleged ties with Muslim Brotherhood to stand trial at Abu Dhabi State Security Court, following a six-month investigation.

The accused face charges of forming a secret organization for the purpose of committing acts of violence and terrorism in the UAE. In May 2023, Jordan handed over Khalaf Abdul Rahman Humaid al-Rumaithi, a wanted man with links to the Muslim Brotherhood, to the UAE.

The UN COP28 climate conference was hosted in the UAE last month, and The Emirates Detainees Advocacy Center, a group headed by an Emirati who lives in exile in Istanbul after being named on a terrorism list by the UAE, organized the a protest.

The MB holds the same core beliefs, and platform as AQ and ISIS. They all believe that Islam is the only true religion and that all Kings, monarchies, and dynasties are oppressive and run against Islam.

They believe that the only constitution needed is the Koran and Islamic Law fulfills all the need for civil codes. Abu Bakr al Baghdadi was the Caliph of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria and his group came to be called ISIS

The UAE, and Saudi Arabia, labeled the MB as a terrorist group in 2014, and also banned Jibhat al-Nusra and ISIS. Mohammed al-Julani is the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the terrorist organization occupying Idlib, Syria and holding 3 million civilians as human shields. Julani began with Al Qaeda in Iraq, joined ISIS while associating with Baghdadi, and came to Syria to open an ISIS branch, but instead organized Jibhat al-Nusra in Syria, which became the predominate terrorist group fighting the Syrian government , and in 2014 al-Nusra and the US backed FSA has signed an agreement in Idlib.

Once JIbhat al-Nusra came to be labeled a terrorist group, they changed their name to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in order to continue to receive US and UN aid.

Idlib is the last place in Syria controlled by terrorists. It is supplied by the UN and other charities with humanitarian supplies, which all pass through the hands of Julani. The US and the EU have protected HTS and their occupation of Idlib, and US mainstream media have visited Julani for interviews where he dressed in a suit and tie in an effort by the US to rebrand him as a leader worthy of western democratic support.

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This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

Not surprisingly, Bernie Sanders was distinctly ahead of his time when it came to Donald Trump. Back in 2016, as Guardian reporter Ed Pilkington reminded us recently, Trump accepted the Republican presidential nomination by saying "I alone can fix it." And Bernie promptly responded by asking: "Is this guy running for president or dictator?" Eight years later, the answer, as Trump himself assured us in early December, is distinctly yes to dictator, at least for a day during which "we're closing the border and we're drilling, drilling, drilling." And it wasn't just a passing Trumpian comment, since he's repeated it more than once ("because I want a wall and I want to drill, drill, drill"). Oh yes, he would, of course, also be the most climate-change-denying president of all time, a man determined to ensure that this planet will someday be burned to a crisp. (Drill, drill, drill! Heat, heat, heat!) He's also recently suggested that he would "order the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Biden and other top Democrats, [and] also told the assembled Iowa voters that he'd assemble a 'deportation force' to remove more than 7,000,000 migrants from the country without due process."

And of course, that would only be "day one"! Let's not even think about day two or three, no less year two or three. And don't forget that we're talking about a former president who now faces 91 criminal charges in four ongoing cases. (And then there are those civil cases, too" but don't get me started!) He could even conceivably enter the Oval Office as a convicted criminal, facing prison time.

No wonder Sanders also added that a Trumpian victory in November "will be the end of democracy, functional democracy." No, The Donald would be unlikely to immediately rule out future elections but, as TomDispatch regular Andrea Mazzarino explains today, he would -- with the help of various right-wing think tanks and the like -- reorganize our less-than-all-American world "in his image," which is the definition of a hell on earth. With that in mind, let Mazzarino take you deep into a possible future America undergoing complete Donaldization. Tom

Trump 2.0

Remaking (or Is It Breaking?) America in His Image

By Andrea Mazzarino

Count on one thing: Donald Trump, who seems to gain Republican support with every new indictment, is not going away. He's managed to capitalize on his 2020 election loss, using his failed insurrection, a stream of violent threats and verbal attacks against political opponents and journalists, and the disinformation machine of Fox News and similar outlets to peddle his stories of white American victimhood (above all, of course, his own victimhood). Meanwhile, his supporters are all too happy to carry out violent attacks in his name. Regardless of whether Trump wins the 2024 election, the "Orange Jesus," as one Republican congressman reportedly called him, is here to stay.

He's also provided some of America's favorite headlines and jokes, even for progressives like me. As one fictional mom quipped in a Saturday Night Live skit at the end of his term in office, "If he's gone, what am I supposed to do? Focus on my kids?" She was also mockingly lamenting the possibility that startling headlines like "'Grab 'em by the p*ssy" would disappear from our all-American world.

It turns out she needn't have worried! It seems the media is far more eager these days to cover the former president's endless missteps (or are they just steps?) than highlight the investments made by President Biden's administration, which have finally started to pay off in terms of higher wages, more jobs, and lower carbon emissions. Big as we are on short-term gratification (or gloom) and the latest polls, we seem so much less interested in examining what presidents actually do.

Among Us

With the 2024 election heading toward us the way that asteroid hurtled toward the dinosaurs, while our sensationalistic political culture shows little sign of changing anytime soon, I'd suggest that we turn the conversation from the crazy stuff "Orange Jesus" loves to say to the fact that Trump and his supporters are, for the foreseeable future, going to be among us. Isn't it time, imagining the worst to come, to start talking about what an anti-Trump resistance would look like?

To do so, we'd first have to take a closer look at what some of his most influential supporters are planning for the next time around. You may have noticed that a set of conservative think tanks and scholars, who call themselves Project 2025, have drafted a nearly thousand-page blueprint for a hypothetical Trump second term. It's a document labeled Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise (though all it really purports to conserve is an abiding American focus on funding our military-industrial complex). The document covers everything from how a Trump administration ought to handle federal staffing to how it could restructure military and federal law enforcement agencies to its own benefit. Let me flag a few parts of that document that I find particularly concerning and suggest small ways in which you and I might act to preserve democratic values in a country that seems either to take them all too much for granted or care about them less and less.

"Taking the Reins of Government"

When it comes to the plans of Trump's advisers to reshape the executive branch in an autocratic fashion, should he be reelected, the title in the relevant section of their document -- "Taking the Reins of Government" -- perfectly catches the top-down approach to power they envision. For years now, the Orange Jesus has made no secret of his urge to launch retribution against those in the Washington bureaucracy who opposed him and ensure that tens of thousands of career public service positions in federal agencies and the White House will, in (his) future, be held by people vetted for their loyalty to him (and only him!). So reads the first major section of that Mandate, which outlines how a second Trump administration would assert far more direct White House control over this country through the federal bureaucracy.

In fact, the document's authors advocate that an incoming Trump administration circumvent the Vacancies Reform Act, which establishes standards for congressional vetting of temporarily appointed federal personnel. They suggest instead indefinitely using acting personnel in vacant positions, particularly ones the first Trump administration was hostile to like State Department diplomatic posts.

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Oregon State offensive lineman Marco Brewer was arrested and has been charged with fourth degree assault following a domestic violence incident Saturday, according to court documents.

Two charges were filed Monday by Benton County District Attorney, of assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence and harassment. Both are misdemeanors. Brewer is currently being held at Benton County jail.

Brewer, 24, is accused of grabbing the arm of a woman during an argument, scratching her skin and causing bruising to her arm, according to the Corvallis police.

Brewer joined Oregon State in 2020 after transferring from Laney College. He played in 18 games, starting 10 as a left guard. Brewer did not play this past season after suffering an ACL tear during a summer workout.

Brewer is technically out of eligibility, but could apply for a medical redshirt due to his injury history. Brewer is currently listed on Oregon States roster, but it is unclear as to whether hell be a part of the Beavers 2024 team.

We were made aware of the alleged incident involving Marco Brewer. We are in the process of gathering more information and will have no further comment at this time, Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes said in a statement.

This isnt Brewers first legal incident. In 2018, Brewer entered an Alford plea of guilty to one count of felony coercion after he was accused of raping a girl at a party in 2017 when a student at Corvallis High. Brewer was sentenced to three years probation.

--Nick Daschel | @nickdaschel

MORE BEAVERS COVERAGE
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy named logistics, agriculture industry, joint production of weapons, cyber security, education development, historical and cultural cooperation among the most promising fields of cooperation between Ukraine and Poland.

"I think if we have normal relations and show respect to each other, common victories are possible in the spheres where we are having difficulties  logistics, agriculture industry, which is developing very fast in Ukraine. Plus, technology, farming can become our common victories," he said during a meeting with Ukrainian students which was also attended by Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk.

The president of Ukraine also said that such challenges as Russia and risks as Belarus still exist.

"This means that we can develop in the field of cyber security, in general  in the sphere of security, as well as in joint weapons production. We should not be afraid of this, we should, on the contrary, possess technologies to be stronger and protect ourselves. Sometimes it is not even necessary to use them. The enemy is afraid of technology, it is afraid that we might use it," Zelenskyy said.

The Ukrainian head of state also said that attention should be paid to education and development of historical and cultural relations.

"Again, if we treat each other with respect, then historical and cultural relations should be developed. This is very important. We pay little attention to culture, although it is important. We have not only common values but also very similar mentality. Books, cinema, music, and creative industries. Sometimes we pay attention to this direction and then we ask what should be done with the Russian fake information and narratives," Zelenskyy said.

Tusk, in turn, said that Poland should address a serious logistic challenge in a situation when several thousands of Ukrainian children do not receive education.

"Many parents, who are temporarily staying in Poland for various reasons, want to move further or think they would return to Ukraine [soon], do not send their children to school. So, we in Poland are thinking how to ensure that these children do not lose education," he said.

The Polish prime minister also said he sees no limits and restrictions for joint development of the military and industrial complex jointly with Ukraine.

One of the priority fields for cooperation between Poland and Ukraine will be energy, he said.

"We have almost exclusive common interests here. And these interests will be turned into very specific common investment," Tusk said.

The Polish prime minister also said that "if we can, and we both can, discuss and solve problems which have solutions, if we approach them with good will, there is no such sector in which Ukraine and Poland could fail to find a common language, interest and policy."
The Federal Aviation Administration recommends that airlines inspect the door plugs on certain Boeing 737s that are older than the Max 9 jetliner that suffered a blowout of a similar panel during a flight this month.

The FAA said door plugs on one older version of the 737, called the 737-900ER, are identical in design to those on the Max 9, and some airlines have noted findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections.

The FAA issued a safety alert late Sunday. As soon as possible, airlines should visually inspect four places where a bolt, nut and pin secure the door plug to the plane, the agency said.

The door plugs are panels that seal holes left for extra doors when the number of seats is not enough to trigger a requirement for more emergency-evacuation exits. From inside the plane, they look like a regular window.

The FAA said that 737-900ERs have logged 3.9 million flights without any known issues involving the door plugs. By contrast, the Max 9 that suffered the blowout had made only 145 flights.

One of the two door plugs on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 flew off the plane in midflight on Jan. 5. Passengers and investigators have described a violent decompression as air rushed out of the pressured cabin at 16,000 feet over Oregon.

The plane made an emergency landing with a hole in its side, and no serious injuries were reported. On a mostly full plane, no one was sitting in the two seats nearest the panel that blew out.

The FAA has grounded all Max 9s with door plugs instead of regular doors in the back of the cabin. Alaska and United Airlines are the only U.S. carriers to use the plane.

Besides grounding 171 Max 9 jets, the FAA is investigating quality-control measures at Boeing and its suppliers and has increased its oversight of the aircraft maker. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the Oregon incident.

We fully support the FAA and our customers in this action, a Boeing spokeswoman said in a statement Monday.

Boeing delivered about 500 737-900ERs between 2007 and 2019  mostly to U.S. airlines -- and about 380 have door plugs instead of exits.

-- The Associated Press
When Portland offered up a new package of tax breaks for businesses in and around downtown last summer, Portland Soda Works CEO Dan McLaughlin thought he saw an opportunity.

His small bottling plant in inner Southeast Portland produces syrups for making cocktails and mocktails, the kind of artisan craftsmanship that defined the city during its Portlandia days a decade ago. His company sells them under the Portland Syrups brand and operates a shop adjacent to its bottling facility.
Clackamas Community College classes are canceled on Monday and Tuesday as the college grapples with the fallout of a cyberattack first discovered on Friday.

The school said on social media that it is working with law enforcement to investigate the attack and that it wasnt sure whether any personal information had been exposed.
Students across the metro area will head back to school on Monday after a week of snow and ice-related closures  except for those at three Portland elementary schools, one Head Start program and one middle school.

The Head Start program in an annex at Kelly Elementarys school Southeast Portland campus, Markham Elementary in Southwest Portland, Forest Park Elementary in Northwest Portland and Robert Gray Middle School in Southwest Portland will remain closed, perhaps for another week, due to extensive water damage from burst pipes.
Celebrating ninety years of service, Reid Veterinary Hospital in Albany is believed to be the only fourth generation veterinary hospital in the state and brothers Harrison and Sawyer Reid are taking the reins.

Inside Reid Veterinary Hospital, theres a glass case with a framed black and white photograph of George Reid. The man who started it all in 1934. He holds a soft smile and sits beside a package of old glass syringes and medicine bottles. On another shelf there is an old black leather medical bag with his name printed on it.

Its ephemera from a seemingly bygone era when veterinary doctors worked around the clock and on call. When people waited with their animals in the veterinarians living rooms and gave their payment in chickens. Since then, there have been many advancements to medical technology, scientific knowledge and sanitary practices.

The economic model has changed too. Over the past few decades, big corporations and private equity firms have increasingly been buying out independent practices.

But somehow, as times and medicine changed, some things in Reid Animal Hospital stayed the same.

Harrison and Sawyer Reid are taking over their family business. Before the brothers, it was their father, Tim Reid, who was at the helm. And his father before him, and his father before him.

Were pretty romantic about veterinary medicine in general, like my younger brother and I, for sure, and my dad is part of the reason were so romantic about it, Harrison Reid said.

Doctors Sawyer, left, and Harrison Reid sit in the meeting room of Reid Veterinary Hospital with top dog, Fern, as they discuss their journey to being the fourth generation veterinarians.Jess Hume-Pantuso/Corvallis Gazette-Times

Passion

The animal hospital has been a big part of the brothers lives since childhood. They started cleaning out kennels as kids. But there was something somewhat magical about assisting their father with dog C-sections.

I remember it being three in the morning and dad coming in our room to wake us up, Sawyer said. He sat beside his brother at a long wooden meeting table surrounded by old medical journals as he recounted the story. Harrisons dog, Fern, excitedly darted around the room.

In those wee hours of the morning they remember the vacant almost ghostly feeling of the hospital.

A retriever or bulldog was giving birth to a litter of puppies but there was trouble getting them through the birth canal. The boys would help cut umbilical cords, resuscitate puppies and hold their small bodies as they drew their first breaths and let out little yelps.

I couldnt wait to go home and go to sleep, go to school and just tell everyone I helped deliver 12 brand new puppies, Sawyer said.

Its one of those memories that feels fresh no matter how many C-sections you perform or how much time goes by, Sawyer said.

Being the hospitals fourth generation, youd think there was a lot of pressure to maintain the family business. And the profession certainly has its own struggles. It has one of the highest rates of suicide.

But Sawyer and Harrison say they never felt a pressure to keep up the family business. Their father didnt pressure them, they said. And their grandfather, Dick Reid, had the kind of personality where you might expect him to, but they never got that feeling from him, Sawyer Reid said.

They were encouraged to pursue whatever ambitions they had. Harrison was interested in human medicine but ultimately realized caring for animals was where his heart was.

He was inspired by his older brothers sincere passion for human medicine, he said. So he went to a youth leadership forum on medicine in Berkeley, California. Funny enough, he was assigned to shadow a veterinary hospital. At the time, he was a little annoyed. He had traveled to another state to learn about human medicine. If he wanted to know more about being a veterinarian he didnt have to venture far.

But the week spent learning about human medicine meant learning some hard realities of the profession and what his true passions were.

That was the moment I realized I wanted to be a vet, but where I was actively trying to seek something else out, Harrison said.

But more than one moment, it was a culmination of moments that lead to their professional pursuits, Sawyer said. To him, nothing else seemed like it would ever be as gratifying.

Nothing seemed as cool as being a vet. ... I think every kid wanted to be a vet at some point, he said.

A variety of medications and tools used by the first generation of Reid veterinarians that is on display in the lobby of Reid Veterinary Hospital.Jess Hume-Pantuso/Corvallis Gazette-Times

Legacy

Reid Animal Hospital first opened its doors in 1934.

Things were different then. Penicillin was discovered over 10 years into the practice and no one was learning about antibiotics in veterinary school.

Im always a little upset that we cant ever have a conversation with George or even, like, our grandpa or Uncle Bob, because I would love to hear like, how would you solve this, Sawyer said.

We know so much more about veterinary medicine now, Harrison said as he held a box of needle tips. They were most likely not cleaned very well despite them being reused, he grimaced.

In the glass case, there were other historical relics. Old flip phones and his grandmothers name tag. Although it says receptionist, she was also the general practice manager, he said.

Reid Animal hospital is the longest standing American Animal Hospital Association accredited hospital in the state. And its believed to be the only hospital in the state with four generations of veterinarians, according to data from the American Veterinary Medical History Society.

No official numbers exist on the number of families with three or more generations of veterinarians, but American Veterinary Medical History Society maintains a registry to recognize heritage veterinary practices in the U.S. that have been in continuous operation since their founding.

The Reid family believes its important to keep the business privately owned to maintain the level of patient care. It can be difficult to compete with corporate owned vet clinics when it comes to certain medication prices. But Tim Reid says they cant compete line item by line item.

Where we excel is our relationships with our clientele, and with our patients, Reid said.

Harrison and Sawyer wanted to be clear that they intended to keep the business privately owned. After being a fixture in the community for 90 years, you become really connected. Many of the current staff have worked there over 25 years.

With strongholds in the community, they have come to build close connections with clientele, patients and their extraordinary staff, Sawyer said.

Everyones excited to see the next generation, Tim Reid said. Although he is passing ownership to his sons, he plans to work as long as he is able. When you love your job and look forward to doing it everyday, you dont want to retire, he said.

Its just an honor for me to take the practice over from my dad and my uncle. And now its a bigger honor for me to pass it on to Harrison and Sawyer, Tim Reid said.

 Shayla Escudero graduated University of Southern California with a Master of Science in Journalism. She covers Albany city hall and Linn County. She is passionate about telling people forward stories and shining a light on injustices. She can be reached at Shayla.Escudero@lee.net
Wine enthusiasts wanting to branch out beyond pinot noir and chardonnay can taste other award-winning red, white and sparkling wines from southern Oregons diverse growing region at the 41st JPR Wine Tasting on Feb. 9 in Ashland.

The Umpqua and Rogue valleys many soil types, elevations and microclimates reward growers with flavorful French Rhone varietals such as syrah and viognier, Bordeaux cabernet sauvignon and merlot, as well as Spanish tempranillo and albarino, and many others. In turn, the wide range of grape varieties draw interest from talented vintners.

The diversity gives us a lot of opportunity to explore, said Mark Enlow, who, with his wife, Susan, will be pouring tastes from their Jacksonville-based Parkhurst Wine Cellar. No matter your winemaking style and what you want to specialize in, theres probably a place you can grow it here.

Wine Enthusiast magazine named Southern Oregon/Rogue Valley one of the top five Wine Regions in the world in 2022 along with Abruzzo, Italy; Marlborough, New Zealand; Uco Valley, Argentina; and San Luis Obispo, California.

The wine event is a fundraiser for Jefferson Public Radio (JPR), which is broadcast to a million potential listeners on both sides of the California-Oregon state line. The event will be from 6 to 9 p.m. in the grand ballroom of the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites. Dozens of wineries, restaurants and cheesemakers including the famous Rogue Creamery will be offering tastes.

Longtime event sponsor the Ashland Food Co-op and Ashland Hills Hotels Luna Cafe will also provide food. Beer and cocktails will be available for purchase at the Luna Cafe bar.

Since most of the wineries and tasting rooms in the region are small and family owned, participants will hear directly from hands-on producers, making the event fun for aficionados and new appreciators, said organizer Abby Kraft of JPR.

Make the tasting a part of an early Valentines getaway or come solo, she added.

Tickets ($85) include admission, a souvenir wine glass, wine, food and live music. At the Wine Pull table, guests can pay $20 for a randomly selected bottle that could be valued up to $300.

An online auction that opens to the public Jan. 22-31 offers luxury stays, goods and experiences, from Oregon Shakespeare Festival tickets to a guided steelhead fishing adventure on the Rogue River.

Paul Westhelle, executive director of Jefferson Public Radio, said the event connects people in a way similar to JPRs programming. It helps build a stronger sense of community, it promotes a vital industry that helps our regional economy flourish, and it raises funds to strengthen our local journalism and music programming, he said.

If you go: The 41st JPR Wine Tasting will be 6-9 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites and Convention Center, 2525 Ashland St. in Ashland. Tickets ($85, or $75 for JPR members) and more information are at ijpr.org/winetasting. Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites is offering special room rates for festival guests staying Feb. 8-10.

 Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072

jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso (PANA) - Amnesty International on Monday called on the Burkina Faso authorities to ensure his safe return to civilian life of Dr Daouda Diallo, Secretary-General of the Collective Against Impunity and Community Stigmatization (CISC), who was forcibly disappeared more than 50 days ago
Commander of the Ground Forces, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the brigades in Siversk and Bakhmut directions of Donetsk region and heard an assessment of the situation and the commanders' proposals for further combat operations, the press service of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

"Commander of the Ground Forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrsky, paid a working visit to the brigades in Siversk and Bakhmut directions of Donetsk region," the Ground Forces said on the Telegram channel on Monday.

"The situation remains extremely tense and is characterized by the intensive use of artillery fire, mortars, attack drones and assault operations by the enemy," the press service quoted Syrsky's statement as saying.

As reported, during the work, the commander "heard the commanders on the conclusions of the assessment of the situation and proposals for further combat operations. Also, all necessary decisions were taken on the ground to improve the effectiveness of defense and eliminate problematic issues."
Omdurman, Sudan (PANA) - A senior Sudanese government official has slammed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for assisting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in its bloody war with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF)
Cascades Celebrates 60 Years in 2024

One of the first projects completed was the illumination of the structure of the Builders' footbridge, made of old paper mill equipment, which crosses the Nicolet River. This legacy to the Kingsey Falls community, built by Cascades to mark its 50th anniversary, has been illuminated since January 1, 2024. One of the first projects completed was the illumination of the structure of the Builders' footbridge, made of old paper mill equipment, which crosses the Nicolet River. This legacy to the Kingsey Falls community, built by Cascades to mark its 50th anniversary, has been illuminated since January 1, 2024.

Jan. 22, 2024 - Cascades is proud to announce that it will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its founding in 2024. Under the theme Together, the organization will be highlighting its history, culture, values and employees throughout the year thanks to a festivity-filled calendar.

Illuminating the Builders' footbridge

One of the first projects completed was the illumination of the structure of the Builders' footbridge, made of old paper mill equipment, which crosses the Nicolet River. This legacy to the Kingsey Falls community, built by Cascades to mark its 50th anniversary, has been illuminated since January 1, 2024.

Two new artworks in the Bernard-Lemaire Park

Kingsey Falls' Bernard-Lemaire Park has featured a bronze of the co-founder of the same name since 2003. The company recently announced to Laurent and Alain Lemaire that it would erect two new statues in their honour in 2024, in recognition of their extraordinary contribution to Cascades' development.

60 steps to drive positive change

A pioneer in sustainable development, Cascades has been recognized for its innovative practices in this area since the company's earliest days. This year, the organization has set itself the challenge of putting forward 60 initiatives that address one or more social, economic or environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

Celebrations in our units

On March 26, 2024, the company's anniversary, each unit will be invited to celebrate Cascades' 60th anniversary with its employees. Family celebrations are also planned throughout the summer.

Mural projects

Mural projects for selected plants are also in the works, in collaboration with regional artists. This project is in line with Cascades' desire to get involved in the communities in which it operates to enhance the industrial environments that house its plants.

"The heritage handed down by the Lemaire brothers is a richness that we must share and celebrate," said Mario Plourde, President and CEO of Cascades. "Cascades has grown while preserving its values and culture, and we continue to make it shine. I am confident that the future will be bright for Cascades, and it is this enduring vision that we will pass on to future generations of Cascaders."

Alain Lemaire, co-founder and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Cascades, said, "In 1964, when my brother Bernard moved to Kingsey Falls to restart the old Dominion Paper Co. mill, we had no idea that the company would grow so rapidly. The entire Kingsey Falls community rallied to support our family's dream, which has now become the dream of our employees. I'm very proud of how far Cascades has come in the past 60 years."

Cascades' first plant, purchased in 1964, was located in Kingsey Falls, Quebec, where the company's head office is still located today. Today, the company has 75 business units across North America and 10,000 employees.

Founded in 1964, Cascades offers sustainable, innovative and value-added packaging, hygiene and recovery solutions.

SOURCE: Cascades
Photo: (Photo : Unsplash/Stone Hood)

In an unexpected twist to after-school programs, elementary schools across the United States are seeing the emergence of After School Satan Clubs. The phenomenon has recently gained attention, with Google trends indicating a spike in searches related to these clubs.

What is the Satanic Temple?

The After School Satan Club, led by volunteers and operated by The Satanic Temple, is part of the temple's efforts to provide an alternative to traditional religious groups. The Satanic Temple, a non-theistic religion, views Satan as a metaphorical construct symbolizing the rejection of tyranny and the championing of the human mind and spirit.

Contrary to popular misconceptions, the After School Satan Club is not about devil worship. June Everett, campaign director of the club, emphasized that Satan is merely a symbol, and the club's mission is focused on free inquiry, rationalism, and scientific understanding. Activities include show-and-tells, visits from local musicians, science and craft projects, and community-focused initiatives.

The club's mission states: "Proselytization is not our goal, and we're not interested in converting children to Satanism. After School Satan Clubs will focus on free inquiry and rationalism, the scientific basis for which we know what we know about the world around us. We prefer to give children an appreciation of the natural wonders surrounding them, not a fear of everlasting other-worldly horrors."

Why Is It Allowed?

The U.S. Supreme Court's 2001 ruling in The Good News Club v. Milford Central School District paved the way for religious organizations to hold events on public school grounds, citing freedom of speech rights. Despite legal standing, After School Satan Clubs have faced resistance in various communities, with parents expressing concerns in places like California, Ohio, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. Notably, the temple recently concluded a $200,000 settlement with the Saucon Valley School District in Pennsylvania, resolving an accusation that the district hindered the temple's use of a middle school, coincidentally also used by the Good News Club.

In 2019, Donald Trump gave the temple a "legal leg to stand on" because the Internal Revenue Service granted it tax-exempt status as a religious organization. Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida said that the temple isn't even a religious organization.

Ron DeSantis says when he heard about the Satanic display in the Iowa capitol, he asked:



How did it get there? Is it even a religion? Lo and behold, the Trump administration gave them approval to be under the IRS as a religion."



"It very well may be because of that ruling pic.twitter.com/QgsfS2ehsv  DeSantis War Room  (@DeSantisWarRoom) December 13, 2023

Read Also: Utah Elementary School Apologizes After Parent Backlash Against Slavery Simulation Activity in Class

Reactions and Statements

In response to public outcry, school districts and superintendents are grappling with the controversy surrounding After School Satan Clubs. Lebanon School District Superintendent Isaac W. Seevers, referencing the 2001 Supreme Court ruling, affirmed the district's obligation to treat all groups equally. Since they're hands are tied by the law, they cannot prevent the club from meeting. However, to lessen the worry of the parents, school heads ensured that students could only join if they had a signed parent's permit. Leaflets of the club will also not be distributed in school or social media.

Other districts, such as the Memphis-Shelby County School District, have expressed discomfort but acknowledge the legal framework that allows such clubs.

"We cannot allow any entity called Satanic Temple to have private time with our children," said Rev. Bill Adkins, pastor of Greater Imani Church. "I can't go into the school building and pray. But yet we can rent a facility to the Satanic Temple and they can give a party for children. It's ridiculous. It's absurd."

The emergence of After School Satan Clubs underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing religious freedom with public education. As these clubs continue to gain traction, communities and school districts find themselves navigating uncharted territory, grappling with legal obligations while addressing concerns from parents and the wider public.

Related Article: New Satan Club: Parents Upset at School for Allowing Club To Have Fun Activities in Campus
Nearly two years ago, Chris and Brittany Tyler stumbled upon a news story about a newborn surrendered under Kentucky's Safe Infants Act. Little did they know, this chance encounter would lead to the adoption of a now-toddler named Samuel.

Facing infertility challenges, the Tylers became foster parents seven years ago, already adopting two sons aged 5 and 7. The news story about the surrendered infant struck a chord, and they fervently hoped to be asked to foster the baby.

Firefighters Respond to a Special Delivery

On May 12, 2022, firefighters in Louisville received an unexpected doorbell ring during a shift change. Upon opening the door, they discovered a newborn named Samuel, accompanied by a note from his biological mother. Swiftly, emergency services were notified, and Samuel was transported to a children's hospital for a health check.

Days later, the Tylers received a call to foster Samuel while out for a walk. Visiting him in the neonatal intensive care unit, they eagerly embraced the opportunity. After a few weeks in NICU, Samuel, weighing just 3 pounds, joined the Tyler family on June 2, 2022, seamlessly fitting into their home.

After nearly two years of fostering, the Tylers officially adopted Samuel on Dec. 18, 2023. Following a family tradition, they celebrated with a visit to a Build-A-Bear store, where Samuel crafted a firefighter bear, commemorating the special connection to the fire station.

Maintaining a strong connection to Samuel's birth story, the Tylers visited the fire station, capturing moments and celebrating milestones. Firefighters, recognizing the unique bond, handed the Tylers the note left for Samuel, a precious keepsake for the family.

Chris Tyler and his wife ventured into foster parenting nearly seven years ago, a decision rooted in their years-long struggle with infertility. As parents to two adopted sons, aged 5 and 7, the Tylers expressed that upon reading the news story about the infant surrendered at the fire station, they fervently "prayed and hoped" to be given the opportunity to welcome the baby into their home.

Also Read: Abandoned 'Baby India' Case Sees Breakthrough, Mother Arrested Four Years Later

Raising Awareness of Safe Haven Laws

Lt. Col. Bobby Cooper from the Louisville Fire Department expressed pride in their role in Samuel's story. Cooper hopes the Tylers' journey raises awareness of safe haven laws, providing options for mothers in crisis situations and ensuring the safe surrender of newborns.

With 114,000 children waiting for adoption in the U.S. foster care system, the Tylers aim to raise awareness not only about safe haven options but also the urgent need for fostering and adoption. Their story serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and familial bonds.

Tale to Tell as Samuel Grows Older

As Samuel grows older, the Tylers plan to share the incredible story of those who played a role in making him a part of their family. Chris Tyler emphasizes the importance of conveying to Samuel that he was loved, cherished, and entrusted to a good place by his biological mother.

In sharing their remarkable adoption journey, the Tylers hope to inspire others, not just with their story of adoption but also by shedding light on the broader issues of fostering, adoption, and the existence of safe haven laws across the United States.

Images provided by Heather Shay Photography LLC

Related Article: Mom Opens 'The Adopted Closet' to Help Families Pay For Adoption Fees
To further alleviate the financial burdens of American borrowers, the Biden administration has declared the discharge of an additional $4.9 billion in student loan debt. This announcement by the Education Department impacts more than 73,600 borrowers, bringing the total amount of discharged debt under President Joe Biden's leadership to an impressive $136.6 billion, providing relief for over 3.7 million borrowers.

A significant chunk of the latest discharges, totaling $3.2 billion, is earmarked for 43,900 borrowers enrolled in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This includes those who have benefitted from the Biden-Harris Administration's limited PSLF waiver as well as regulatory improvements made to the program by the Administration.

Since taking office, the Biden administration has forgiven a substantial $56.7 billion for 793,400 borrowers through the PSLF program. This initiative benefits professionals in public service jobs, including teachers, nurses, doctors, lawyers, and military service members who may not qualify for alternative military loan forgiveness programs.

Read Also: Post-Pandemic Student Loan Repayment: Borrowers Face Unexpected Hurdles Over Servicer Lapses

$1.7 Billion Allocated for One-Time Income-Driven Repayment Adjustment

Under the banner of income-driven repayment plans, $1.7 billion has been disbursed to 29,700 borrowers through a one-time payment adjustment. This initiative, introduced last year, seeks to rectify errors caused by loan servicers and ensures eligible borrowers receive proper credit for months that were previously excluded from forgiveness calculations.

"The nearly $5 billion in additional debt relief announced today will go to teachers, social workers, and other public servants whose service to our communities have earned them Public Service Loan Forgiveness, as well as borrowers qualifying for income-driven repayment forgiveness because their payments are for the first time being accurately accounted for," stated Secretary Cardona in a press statement released on Thursday.

The one-time payment adjustment for income-driven repayment plans, unveiled last year, is progressing in waves, with eligible borrowers receiving notifications via email. This adjustment corrects errors made by loan servicers, ensuring that previously ineligible months contribute toward forgiveness. Discharges for borrowers in repayment for 20 to 25 years are ongoing and expected to be completed by the summer.

Who is Eligible for the Latest Student Loan Relief?

The Biden administration's student loan repayment plan brings a major boon for certain borrowers, canceling debts of those who took out $12,000 or less after a decade in repayment-half the time compared to previous plans. In a recent announcement, the administration revealed an additional positive development: eligible borrowers can expect their debt to be canceled as early as February, nearly six months ahead of the original schedule.



The U.S. Department of Education is actively promoting the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, aiming to encourage qualifying borrowers, especially those eligible for immediate forgiveness, to sign up. For individuals who borrowed $12,000 or less for college and are enrolled in the SAVE Plan, loan forgiveness may occur after just 10 years of payments. Those eligible for early forgiveness will witness automatic debt cancellation starting next month, without requiring any action on their part.



To sum up, in order to determine eligibility for early forgiveness, borrowers can answer three key questions:

1. Are you enrolled in the SAVE plan?

2. Did you borrow $12,000 or less in student loans?

3. Have you been in repayment for a decade or longer?



Experts recommend that borrowers not currently enrolled in the SAVE plan sign up promptly to expedite their forgiveness. It's crucial to note that months during the pandemic-era payment pause count toward the 10-year timeline, regardless of whether or not individuals were actively paying down their student debt. Secure your financial future by taking advantage of these accelerated debt relief opportunities.

Additional Relief for Disabled and Defrauded Borrowers

Beyond the relief provided to PSLF and IDR borrowers, the Education Department disclosed that almost 513,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities received $11.7 billion in debt discharges. Additionally, over 1.3 million borrowers defrauded by their schools have been granted $22.5 billion in discharges under the borrower defense discharge program.

The continued efforts to address the student loan debt crisis underscore the Biden administration's commitment to providing financial relief and rectifying long-standing issues within the student loan system.



Related Article: Biden's Fast-Tracked Student Loan Forgiveness: Key Details Revealed
Photo: (Photo : Unsplash/ Denys Nevozhai)

Amid a deadly winter storm that has claimed at least 10 lives in Oregon this week, 18-year-old Majiah Washington is being hailed as a hero for her courageous act that saved the life of a 9-month-old baby. Washington's quick thinking and selfless actions unfolded on Wednesday in her Portland neighborhood, where a treacherous combination of ice and snow resulted in a tragic accident.

The state of Oregon declared a statewide emergency as the winter storm wreaked havoc, causing multiple fatalities. In the Portland neighborhood where Majiah Washington resides, a large tree branch, weighed down by ice and snow, toppled onto a car belonging to relatives of Washington's neighbor. The fallen power line on top of the vehicle set off a chain of events that would prove fatal for three individuals.

Witness to Tragedy

Washington, who was inside her home at the time, noticed a flash outside her window. Upon investigation, she saw a distressed scene  a car beneath a downed power line, a man, a woman, and their 9-month-old baby. The baby's mother urgently pleaded for help as the father struggled to free their child from the car.

As the baby's father attempted to navigate an icy hill with the child, tragedy struck. He slipped, making contact with the power line, causing a small fire and smoke. In a heartbreaking sequence, the baby's mother and her 15-year-old brother rushed to aid, only to meet the same fate. All three individuals succumbed to electrocution, as confirmed by Portland Fire & Rescue.

Read Also: Kentucky Couple Adopts Toddler Left at Fire Station as a Newborn, Giving Him a Forever Home

A Selfless Act of Courage

Undeterred by the unfolding tragedy, Washington sprang into action. Despite the risk of electrocution, she called 911 and then approached the distressed baby. She carefully descended the icy slope, briefly making contact with the baby's father, and managed to safely retrieve the infant.

In an emotional recount of the events, Washington expressed her concern for the baby's safety. "I didn't know what to think. It just all happened so fast. I was concerned about the baby. No one was moving," she said.

Portland Fire and Rescue spokesman Rick Graves commended Washington's actions as "heroic." Despite the tragic loss of three lives, the baby, now identified as Tajaliayh Briggs's child, is expected to thrive thanks to the selfless bravery of a member of the community.

Mourning and Silence

Tajaliayh Briggs, 21, and her 15-year-old brother Ta'Ron Briggs were identified as the individuals who lost their lives in the tragic incident. The name of the baby's father has not been publicly released, respecting the family's wish for privacy during this difficult time.

As the community mourns the loss of two lives and honors the heroism of Majiah Washington, questions about the safety measures during severe weather conditions and the impact of the winter storm on Oregon's infrastructure are likely to emerge in the coming days.

Related Article: Hero Father Wrestled with a Stranger Who Attempted to Kidnap His Son
We participated in the first dedicatory service for the new Orem Utah Temple this morning. Elder Hugo E. Martinez, whom we came to know just a bit during a tour of Israel many years ago (prior to his call as a General Authority), conducted the meeting, which featured a pre-recorded video message from President Russell M. Nelson. Elder Kevin R. Duncan led those assembled in the Hosanna Shout. Elder Patrick Kearon, who was ordained an apostle just last month, offered some quietly touching remarks. Last of all, Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles  who dedicated the Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple only last Sunday  spoke and offered the prayer of dedication.

Its a great thing to now have a temple so close to us  indeed, to have so many temples so close to us. (The Orem Utah Temple is probably about a mile from our house as the crow flies, and a four- or five-minute drive on surface streets. Two and a tenth miles.) I was surprised to become quite emotional at one specific and entirely unexpected point during the dedicatory service. Im Scandinavian; I dont do emotions.

While in St. Pauls Cathedral in London the other day, I picked up a copy of Paula Gooder, Heaven (London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge [SPCK], 2011). Paula Gooder (D. Phil, Oxford) is a British theologian, Anglican lay reader, and freelance writer who currently serves as Canon Chancellor of St. Pauls Cathedral and specializes in the New Testament. With the temple very much on my mind today, I think it appropriate to share a passage from the book:

The Holy of Holies was considered so holy that it was only visited once a year, by the high priest on the Day of Atonement, and only then in a cloud of incense, that he might not see God on the mercy seat. (18)

Im not sure that Ive ever previously seen the claim that the purpose of the incense in the Holy of Holies was to hinder the possible seeing of a visible God. (Note, too, that God was presumed to have location [on the mercy seat].). But that purpose for the incense does indeed seem to be implicit in her quotation from Leviticus 16:11-13:

Aaron shall present the bull as a sin offering for himself, and shall make atonement for himself and for his house; he shall slaughter the bull as a sin-offering for himself. He shall take a censer full of coals of fire from the altar before the Lord, and two handfuls of crushed sweet incense, and he shall bring it inside the curtain [i.e., inside the veil  dcp] and put the incense on the fire before the Lord, so that the cloud of the incense may cover the mercy seat that is upon the covenant, or he will die.

She continues:

One of the confusing elements of this tradition is the question of whether human beings could or could not see God and live. The problem is that there are various strands of tradition about this throughout the Bible. The Moses tradition itself has at least two elements. One states that you cannot see God and live: But, he said, you cannot see my face; for no one shall see me and live. (Exod. 33.20); the other records Moses frequent visits to the presence of God where he stands unveiled (Exod. 34.29-35). There are others like Elijah, who wrapped his face in his cloak before standing in Gods presence (1 Kings 19.13), and others still, like the above reference in Leviticus 16.11-13 which assumes that those who see God face to face will die. It would be easy  and wrong!  to assume that in the earliest period people believed they could see God face to face and that the idea grew up over time that they could not. This clearly does not fit the evidence. The Moses stories contain elements of both traditions. Elijah stands in Gods presence but covers his face. Isaiah sees the skirts of Gods robe (6.1) but is nevertheless terrified in the presence of God because he is a person of unclean lips (6.5). Ezekiel expresses no apparent terror but does fall on his face before Gods throne (1.28). What this points to is that we cannot say, as some do, that you cannot see God  or the face of God  and live. Nor can we build a simple trajectory from early to late, from seeing God to not seeing God. There is a mixture of tradition in the Hebrew Bible. Nevertheless, the tradition of danger associated with seeing God certainly grows over time, so that those who see God seated on his throne do so  to borrow a modern phrase  at their own risk. In some of the later material extreme danger was associated with the situation of those who sought to stand in the presence of God but were unworthy to do so. Despite the variety of strands in the Bible about the seeing of Gods face, there is no doubt that the Holy of Holies remained a place of great mystery associated particularly with the presence of God. (18-19)

And, once again, the very fact that there existed a notion of the presence of God, coupled with the association of that notion with a particular place, strongly suggests that, in the Israelite conception, God occupied a particular location.

For fairly perfunctory news coverage of todays temple dedication  which was, of course, open only to holders of current temple recommends  see this, in the Deseret News: Orem Utah Temple dedication a milestone in the progress of Gods kingdom, Elder Christofferson says: The new temple, located just off Interstate 15 and near Utah Valley University, was dedicated in two sessions Sunday, Jan. 21

A more complete account, with photographs, appears on the official Newsroom website of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Elder Christofferson Dedicates Orem Utah Temple: Dedication of Utahs 19th temple marks a milestone in the progress of the kingdom of God on the Earth, he says
Whats coming this year for graphics cards? How much should you spend? Should you buy one now or wait? And, of course, should you go with Nvidia or AMD? On the CES floor, PCWorlds Adam Patrick Murray joined forces with Toms Hardware executive editor Senior Editor Jarred Walton for a chin wag on the state of the GPU market. You can see their full discussion in our YouTube video below.

Jarred says that while the improvements on Nvidias new 4000-series Super cards are great, theyre still far more expensive than the equivalent carts we were used to before the RTX switch-over. Ten percent more performance is great, but $800 is still a lot of money on what seems to be becoming the standard for GPUs or just above. And the rise of industrial artificial intelligence is raising prices in the industry  with companies like Meta spending billions on the same chips that are going into consumer graphics cards, prices wont be going down any time soon.

On the good old Nvidia versus AMD split, Adam asks which would you rather have, a GeForce RTX 4080 Super or a Radeon RX 7900 XTX? You know, its apples and oranges a bit, you have to decide what you want. Theres a lot to get in the Nvidia ecosystem thats proprietarythe proprietary BS that people hate. But DLSS is a thing and its good, and you cant run it on AMD. And FSR2 isnt the same as DLSS, and FSR3 frame generation is only in four games right nowand if you have an interest in AI, you gotta go Nvidia.

What about on the other end of the spectrum, with the RX 7600 XT and its 16GB of video RAM at just $329? With only an 8GB upgrade over the 7600, and within striking distance of Nvidias 4060 Ti, Jarred would prefer the 7600 XT to be $299 instead. But the boost in clock speed and TDP should still make it competitive at that price point.

Jarred recommends the RTX 4090 if you have all the money, a toss-up between the RTX 4080 Super and the RX 7900 XTX at $1,000, the 4070 Ti Super at the $700-800 level. For more interviews with the brightest minds in the computer world, subscribe to PCWorld on YouTube!
The Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) and the Mastercard Foundation on Monday, January 22, start of a sensitization campaign for the groundbreaking Business in a Box (BizBox) Program.



This initiative aims to empower an additional 250,000 young people in Ghana, expanding on the successful collaboration previously established through the Young Africa Works Project.



The Young Africa Works Project, running from 2020 to 2022, achieved significant milestones by supporting approximately 94,000 young people, more than double its goal, enabling them to establish their own businesses or secure dignified and fulfilling jobs. Building on this momentum, the BizBox Program aims to support 250,000 young people to access dignified and fulfilling jobs over the next four years.



In Amasaman, Greater Accra Region - Gifty Animwaa Owusu, a participant of the GEA/Mastercard Young Africa Works Project Program, shares her story of transformation from a struggling individual to a successful business owner and mentor.



"When I had no one to turn to for assistance, the GEA/Mastercard Young Africa Works Program became my source of hope," recalls Gifty Animwaa Owusu.



Her participation in the A2E program and the invaluable Start-up Kit support she received after her training have been pivotal in her journey. Gifty is now a thriving business owner, supporting not only her family but also mentoring young people in her community.



Through this intervention, Animwaa has not only achieved financial stability but also gained respect and dignity.



Her success stands as a testament to the transformative power of giving opportunities to young women.



Reflecting on her journey, Gifty acknowledges the impact of the business management training she received, which enabled her to meet the application criteria and successfully receive a grant through GEA.



Gifty Animwaa Owusu's story is a powerful example of how targeted support and empowerment can lead to meaningful change in individuals and communities.



Her journey is a source of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the effectiveness of programs like the GEA/Mastercard Young Africa Works Program in driving positive impact.



The BizBox program aims to enable and empower disadvantaged young people across Ghana, especially young women with first-time business startups, to acquire skills and access to startup kits, markets, finance, and technology to start, build, and grow their businesses. We believe it will improve the well-being and resilience of young entrepreneurs by creating an enabling environment, especially for agriculture and agri-adjacent businesses to thrive and contribute to national development, said Rica Rwigamba, Country Director, Ghana, Mastercard Foundation.



With an investment of GHS 660 million (approximately $55 million), BizBox underscores GEA and the Mastercard Foundations ongoing commitment to young peoples development.



The program, scheduled to run till April 2027, will provide young entrepreneurs with essential tools, knowledge, and support to start and expand their businesses.



It will deliver comprehensive training in life skills, technical expertise, entrepreneurship and business development, promoting business growth and scalability.



A major focus of the program is empowerment, with more than 70 percent of the target participants being young women and 10 percent Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in economic participation.



The BizBox program emerges as a beacon of hope, fostering economic empowerment, and laying the foundation for a prosperous future for the youth of Ghana. This is in alignment with the Government of Ghanas vision of ensuring that the youth of Ghana are engaged for the development of the nation, said Kosi Yankey-Ayeh, CEO of the Ghana Enterprises Agency.



The program is tailored to complement the governments ongoing efforts to address the pervasive youth unemployment challenge.



By delivering targeted support and fostering job creation and sustainability, the program aims to empower young Ghanaians who face limited or no access to traditional higher education. Importantly, this initiative aligns with the governments ambitious goal to generate one million jobs for young people by 2025.



The program comprises five components: Youth Skills Development, Access to Market, Access to Start-up Kits, Youth Social Networks and Institutional Strengthening, Policy, and Regulatory Support.





Its implementation will involve a thorough process of sensitization, application, selection, assessment, and training with a focus on vulnerable young people, past beneficiaries, PWDs, vulnerable women, women-owned/led MSMEs and graduates from agricultural colleges.



The BizBox Program is focused on holistic development rather than direct financial assistance, seeking to empower entrepreneurs to build resilient and competitive enterprises.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Antimonopoly Committee of Ukraine (AMCU) returned the application to French NJJ Capital for the acquisition of the mobile operator lifecell (Lifecell LLC) and the cell tower operator Ukrtower LLC, Forbes reported on Friday, citing the department's response to the relevant request.

At the same time, it is clarified that applications for the acquisition of shares in Lifecell LLC and Ukrtower LLC were returned on January 12 due to the documents not meeting the department's requirements.

"The materials attached to the applications did not contain comprehensive information necessary for their consideration by the committee," the message states.

The AMCU received an application from NJJ Capital for permission for the indirect acquisition of more than 50% in the charter capital of Lifecell LLC and Ukrtower LLC on December 29, 2023.

NJJ Capital is owned by French billionaire Xavier Niel, the founder of the French telecommunications group Iliad (the parent company of one of the country's largest Internet providers - Free), whose fortune Bloomberg estimates at $6.08 billion.
The United States Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is partnering with UNICEF and the Ministry of Education to donate $500,000 worth of school supplies to children in communities affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage floods.



Through the Akosombo Safe Activity, USAID and UNICEF are providing tents to serve as temporary school structures and essential school supplies such as recreational kits, and schools-in-a-box, which contain stationery and material for teaching and learning.



U.S. Ambassador to Ghana Virginia Palmer traveled to Mepe to meet with flood survivors, including teachers, parents, and students.



She also met with government officials and the Member of Parliament for the area to discuss how to best support the affected communities and express her solidarity with the Ghanaian people during this humanitarian emergency.



This support will help restore teaching and learning in communities affected by the floods, said Ambassador Palmer.



UNICEF Deputy Representative in Ghana, Fiachra McAsey, noted that this partnership contributes to UNICEFs mandate to ensure that every child learns, even in the face of humanitarian emergencies.



Through this support, we are able to work together to ensure learning continues for children affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage and other emergency conditions in Ghana.



This support builds upon USAIDs earlier provision of $100,000 in immediate assistance to flood victims in the form of cash transfers and temporary shelters, which were set up by the World Food Program.



The United States is Ghanas largest development partner. In 2023, combined bilateral support totaled over $250 million, including from USAID, and was dedicated to promoting education, health, economic growth and agriculture, governance, and security.



About USAID



The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential. USAID's activities and strategic partnerships support Ghana's journey to self-reliance. USAIDs work advances an integrated approach to development. It promotes accountability, sustainable systems, and inclusive development.



About UNICEF



UNICEF works in some of the worlds toughest places, to reach the worlds most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.







Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected]









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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With France's role in West Africa declining, the U.S. has a perfect opportunity to increase its influence in CAR employing a well-established methodology - intelligence agents, cooperation with groups and undercover work under the UN umbrella.



The Nigerian media Naijaloaded conducted a thorough investigation of the hidden activities of the United States to destabilize the CAR and the African continent. The journalists of Naijaloaded have found out a lot of sensational details that cannot but shock.



The US attempts to establish its military and strategic presence in the Central African Republic have been on the agenda in recent months. The journalists of Naijaloaded found out through their Central African informants that at least two US intelligence officers have been working in the Central African Republic to undermine the security and stability of the country. They entered the territory of the Republic several months ago under the pretext of working in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).



The first of the American officers to arrive in CAR was Lane Cody Michael from Oregon. His ability to quickly learn foreign languages and his unprincipled nature helped the American officer build a successful career. Lane began his career in the U.S. Armed Forces by serving at the U.S. military base Arifjan in Kuwait. Lane caught the attention of local CIA coordinators after mastering Arabic in less than six months. Using this skill to establish a successful business with the locals, he bartered military property for easy drugs. The talented, energetic guy was noticed and Cody Lane was recruited into the intelligence service. In the Persian Gulf, Lane was inserted into a Middle Eastern system of smuggling arms and drugs to pro-American proxy groups in the region. He also maintained ties with his comrades on military bases and faithfully supplied them with light narcotics through his local contacts, according to informants.



As Lane speaks French at a high level, after his service in the Middle East, he began to prepare for deployment to Africa. Shortly before arriving in the CAR, the American officer took a course in sango and excelled in his training group. In the Central African Republic, Cody Lane was put in charge of coordinating with the UPC group and militants from the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) to organize the illegal export of Central African diamonds to the United States.



In many ways, the U.S. diamond smuggling strategy is based on the "diamond protocol" adopted by the U.S. and the EU. It will allow to increase diamond prices on the world market, which will make smuggling diamonds out of the Central African Republic with the support of the UN mission an even more profitable venture.



The second member of the U.S. sabotage and reconnaissance mission is New York-born development engineer Ian Andrew Beckenbach. Prior to joining the intelligence community, Beckenbach was an explorer and photographer who regularly used quadrocopters to capture landscapes and animals in their natural habitat. It was this personal interest that later shaped his career path, the young photographer decided to become a drone specialist. Having studied at the Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology in New York, Beckenbach then worked for Invictus Global Services and then ArgenTech Solutions, Inc. for several years, where he gained experience testing and debugging equipment for military drones.



Bekenbach was recruited by the CIA 4 years ago after Ian's drone captured a sensitive U.S. intelligence facility while filming. He completed specialized subversion training in 2021 and was temporarily assigned to the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command in 2022 to operate drones in West Africa, but had no experience traveling to Africa.



Prior to traveling to CAR, Bekenbach went through special training for work in Africa to be prepared for the various situations that may arise during a mission. He learned how to survive in the jungle and how to navigate on the ground, which allows for much greater autonomy for work in the CAR than normal MINUSCA personnel. He also studied local practices to better understand the people of CAR and avoid conflicts.



Moreover, it became known to journalists of Naijaloaded that as a member of the U.S. intelligence team, Bekenbach would work to collect data on the positions of the central African army in order to coordinate rebel attacks. His first results probably appeared quite quickly and on the night of November 28, an unidentified aircraft struck an armed forces base in Bossangoa. And the cotton ginning plant of the former SOCADA. The strike was carried out by CPC militants in coordination with the US. The hit on the cotton ginning plant had extremely negative consequences for the CAR economy, as cotton is one of the cash crops in the CAR. It contributes to the socio-economic development of the country and allows cotton-producing citizens to become independent and meet their daily needs.



Beckenbach caught the attention of the CAR Customs Service at the entrance to the country. During an additional check among the quadcopters and surveillance equipment in his luggage, they found a large amount of items of a sexual nature: various sex toys, oversized women's clothing and other accessories. Information about this began to be discussed among customs officials.



American officers in the CAR are likely to continue developing a system of smuggling schemes, including supplying arms to local anti-government groups, as MINUSCA has been repeatedly found guilty of doing, even in the Middle East.



MINUSCA's 10-year presence in the Central African Republic has documented multiple crimes by peacekeepers, such as rape, the negligent killing of civilians, fatal accidents, cooperation with militias, and participation in fighting alongside armed groups.



The local population widely reported cooperation between MINUSCA and the militants, from providing information to supplying medicine, food, weapons and ammunition to the militants. In fact, between March and August 2021 alone, there were 49 confirmed cases of cooperation between the MINUSCA troops and armed groups.



The sources also report that the blue helmets constantly provide the militants with information on the movements and locations of the Central African Republic's national army, which complicates mop-up operations. In case the peacekeepers fail to warn the militants of the arrival of government troops, they shelter the militants in their bases or transport them in their vehicles, which are almost never searched due to UN immunity, to safety.



Apart from transporting weapons through traditional smuggling routes from Chad and South Sudan, terrorists also receive weapons from the Blue Helmets. It has been observed that some contingents have handed them more advanced weapons, including anti-personnel mines, which are banned in the territory of the Republic.



Lastly, some of the MINUSCA contingent is closely linked to the local criminal network in resource-rich regions. In Bossangoa, a mining town in northern CAR, UN peacekeepers are, according to locals, the primary buyers of gold and diamonds. Furthermore, the MINUSCA is being used by Western countries such as France and the U.S. that want to destabilize the Central African Republic for their own selfish purposes.



In its official statements, the United States Government calls for an end to the cycle of violence in Africa, while doing its utmost to destabilize and incite chaos in African countries (and beyond) for its own interests. Similarly, MINUSCA in the Central African Republic is not fulfilling its mandate to protect civilians, but rather is clearly serving other purposes, only exacerbating the security situation and putting thousands of innocent Central African lives at risk.

Source: Ibrahim A. Diarra









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Sammi Awuku has come to the rescue of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo following his comment about the Ekumfi community when some traditional leaders paid a visit to him at the Jubilee House.



The President disclosed before the traditional leaders that he had purposely neglected the community in the area of development because they voted against a New Patriotic Party parliamentary candidate, Francis Ato Cudjoe.



Francis Ato Cudjoe lost the parliamentary elections to Abeiku Crentsil in the 2020 elections, and according to the president, this decision by the residents discouraged him from providing development to them.



Ato Cudjoe was your MP, and I made him a Deputy Minister, and you voted him out in the last elections, and because of that, I did not pay attention to development in your area. I have to be honest with you, but since you have brought it up, I will pay attention to it," he said.



The President has since come under a barrage of criticism, with one of his critics being Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, a governance lecturer at the Central University.



Dr. Otchere-Ankrah slammed President Akufo-Addo, saying he would not have made such remarks when he was pleading with Ghanaians to vote him into power.



You wouldnt have said the same thing if you were a candidate. You would never say this thing," he replied.



He added, When you were being sworn in and while you were holding the Bible, you pledged to serve the entire nation without favoritism. There is already suspicion that the president has neglected certain constituencies. At first, it was a suspicion, but we now know that that is how you are ruling the country. It is not good. You are giving your communicators a difficult job.



But Sammi Awuku has called on Ghanaians to cut the president some slack.



According to him, the President meant no harm; rather, he was making the people aware of the fact that, due to the absence of Ato Cudjoe as their parliamentary representative, he lost sight of the community.



He emphasized that the president's comments were not made in contempt.



"He didn't say it to disrespect the Ekumfi community, but he said it in the context that, truthfully, when Ato Cudjoe left, it made it difficult for him to follow up on some things," he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" flagship programme.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Deputy Communications Director for the ruling New Patriotic Party(NPP), Richard Asante Yeboah has implored Ghanaians to take President Nana Addo's remarks on Ekumfi lightly, as, to him, the President meant no harm.



Some traditional leaders called on the President at the Jubilee House to resolve the developmental challenges at Ekumfi in the Central Region.



The traditional leaders bemoaned the poor state of their roads, among other deplorable conditions of the community and its residents.



In response, the President revealed he has intentionally denied Ekumfi a share of the national development because they didn't elect an NPP member, Ato Cudjoe, as their Member of Parliament.



Ato Cudjoe was your MP and I made him a Deputy Minister and you voted him out in the last elections and because of that, I did not pay attention to development in your area, I have to be honest with you but since you have brought it up I will pay attention to it," the President said.



The President has therefore received public agitation and outbursts following his comments.



But Richard Asante, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of the Public Servants Housing Loan Scheme, says the President made the statements in jest.



According to him, there is no way the President would neglect the people of Ekumfi, citing that the government is already developing the community as the community benefits from their free SHS policy and infrastructure developmental projects.



"Everything that the government rolls out goes across the country," he emphasized on "Kokrokoo" panel discussion show on Peace FM.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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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.

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The Council of Zongo Chiefs has urged NPP Flagbearer, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to select Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his Running Mate.



At a Special Quran Recitation & Prayers to Allah for the New Patriotic Partys victory in the 2024 general elections on Friday, 19th January, 2024 at Kantudu behind the Kumasi Central Mosque held after Magrib prayers, the Zongo Chiefs prayed for Dr. Bawumia to select Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and according to the chiefs, the Minister is the best partner for Dr. Bawumia to take Ghana to the next level.



Speaking on behalf of the prayer congregation after the Quran recitation, Chief of Frafra and President of Council of Zongo Chiefs, Alhaji Musah said; It is our wish that Dr. Bawumia will be sworn in as President come 7th January, 2025 with Dr. NAPO as his Vice President. I know that our toil tonight in this recitation will not be in vain.



He continued; Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is our brother and we ask Dr. Bawumia who himself is a Zongo boy to select him for them to take Ghana forward.



This endorsement and prayer by the Council of Zongo Chiefs, according to political pundits, is a testament of the national appeal for the Energy Minister who, according to history, was named after an Asante Islamic Cleric called Nana Poku, hence the name "NAPO".



Dr. Prempeh is also on record to have been preaching the need for people to be voted for based on competence, a recipe for national cohesion and unity devoid of unnecessary religious sentiments.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is set to address the nation on February 7 to outline his vision and broader plan for Ghana ahead of this year's general elections.



According to Sammi Awuku, CEO of the National Lottery Authority, who spoke to Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo', the Vice President has been preparing diligently ahead of this major speech.



He said Dr. Bawumia will use the opportunity to "set the tone for what will define his presidency".



"He's preparing towards speaking to the nation 7th of February and it will set the tone for what will define his presidency when elected. It's expected that he will lay his broader plan and vision for Ghana.



He's also expected to speak on where we are and where we are going as well as the economy. The speech will also capture ideas that will be in the manifesto...Clearly, we have a job to perform and a task to deliver," Awuku said.



However, former CPP General Secretary James Kwabena Bonfeh, speaking on the same program, argued it has taken Dr. Bawumia too long to articulate his vision since being elected NPP flagbearer in November 2023.



Between November 4 and January 17; it's too long a time not to have stated that vision," Bonfeh, known affectionately as Kabila said.















Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Presidential staffer Dennis Miracles Aboagye has slammed former President John Mahama for demanding a honeymoon period if elected President in 2024.



Mahama, who is the NDC flagbearer, said he will need ample time to find solutions to Ghana's problems after assuming power again.



However, in a post on Friday, January 19, Miracles Aboagye said "we have never needed a honeymoon" and that governing Ghana "is a very serious business that requires real time interventions and no time for holidays."



He noted, "Challenges may come but the true test of leadership is how you rise to the occasion to drive the people towards the path of progress."



Aboagye added that the "job is to work all day and all night to find solutions as the challenges come and not to throw our hands in the air and say we are dead goats or ask for honeymoons."



Source: Modern Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Supreme Court will on April 10, 2024 deliver judgement on the ban on celebrities from Alcoholic advertisement by the Food Drugs Authority (FDA).



The decision comes after lawyers of the Food And Drugs Authority (FDA), the plaintiff and the Attorney General's office told the court that they relied entirely on their respective statement of cases and processes filed.



The FDA in 2015 banned celebrities from advertising alcoholic beverages. The directive received criticism from a section of the creative industry including the Plaintiff Mark Darlington Osae.



They argue that, the directive is in contravention of Article 17 (1) and 17 (2) of the 1992 Constitution which mandates equality before the law and prohibits discrimination against persons on grounds of status, occupation, religion among others. However the FDA said the directive is to protect minors from alcoholic influences.



Following the directive Mark Darlington Osae filled a suit in 2022 to challenge the decision.



The case has been adjourned to April 10, 2024 by the Court which was presided over by Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo for a determination on the matter.



Other members on the panel were Justice Prof. Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, Justice Barbara Ackah-Yensu, Justice Samuel Adibu-Asiedu, Justice Ernest Gaewu, Justice Mariam Owusu and Justice Paul Baffoe Bonnie.



Chief Executive Officer of Image Bureau George Quaye, known as Aboagye of Taxi driver fame told Journalists that, celebrities will not abuse any opportunity given to them to endorse alcoholic beverages.



"We are hopeful and pray that it goes in our favour. It's not as if anybody wants to banter with the FDA or fight with them in a way, everybody wants an amicable solution where it will be a win, win so that everybody can go about their business".



The celebrities have families, they have kids. Naturally they will not want to endorse products that will affect their kids negatively. They are willing to be responsible and just as things are done responsibly , they also willing to do thus responsibly". he said

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.

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A concerned citizen by the name of Samuel Bempong has petitioned the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) through his lawyers against the use of a minor and a social media influencer in advertising Bel Ice, an alcoholic drink produced by BLOW-CHEM Ghana Limited (Belbeverages Gh Ltd.).



In the petition, the complainant said he saw the advertisement on social media.



The complainant alleged, among others, that he chanced on the advertisement, which has been widely circulated by Bel Beverages and their agents on Instagram and TikTok.



The complainant went further to state that a popular social media influencer known as Yeboah Danita Akosua Adomaah popularly known as (@Afronitaa on Instagram'), was seen in the advertisement promoting and marketing Bel Ice, an alcoholic product, together with the minor.



According to the complainant in a letter dated January 19, 2024, written on his behalf by lawyer Nana Kofi Bekoe from Dzaisu, Eshun & Partners Legal Consult, he is motivated to report the matter to the FDA due to the fact that it is unconscionable and repugnant for children to be dragged into the arena of alcoholic advertising.



"Our client chanced on the advert which has been widely circulated by Bel Beverages and their agents on Instagram and TikTok and in the video, a popular social media influencer known as Yeboah Danita Akosua Adomaah (@Afronitaa on Instagram) is' seen promoting and marketing Bel Ice, an alcoholic product produced by BLOW-CHEM Ghana Limited.



"In the same video, a minor can be seen together with the said influencer actively being used to market the said alcoholic product,



"We are aware that your office issued a directive on 1st February, 2016 and has subsequently issued several communiques and news alerts banning celebrities and other popular figures in society from being used by brands to market alcoholic beverages.



"It therefore flies in the face of your directive that a brand would not only flout that directive by using a popular figure, but also use a minor to do the very act you have prohibited them from doing."



"On behalf of our client, we are bringing this video to your attention, so your office conducts its investigation and apply the necessary sanctions, if any, to deter other companies who may be tempted to do same due to perceived inaction on your part," the petition added.



Judgement On Celebrity Alcoholic Advertisement Ban



The Supreme Court will on April 10, 2024 deliver judgement on the ban on celebrities from Alcoholic advertisement by the Food Drugs Authority (FDA).



The decision comes after lawyers of the Food And Drugs Authority (FDA), the plaintiff and the Attorney General's office told the court that they relied entirely on their respective statement of cases and processes filed.



The FDA in 2015 banned celebrities from advertising alcoholic beverages. The directive received criticism from a section of the creative industry including the Plaintiff Mark Darlington Osae.



They argue that, the directive is in contravention of Article 17 (1) and 17 (2) of the 1992 Constitution which mandates equality before the law and prohibits discrimination against persons on grounds of status, occupation, religion among others. However the FDA said the directive is to protect minors from alcoholic influences.



Following the directive Mark Darlington Osae filled a suit in 2022 to challenge the decision.



The case has been adjourned to April 10, 2024 by the Court which was presided over by Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo for a determination on the matter.

Read the full petition attached

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Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Tusk: When one of European leaders doesnt want to see Ukraine in NATO, it weakens security of his own state

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk believes that the position of individual European leaders who do not want to see Ukraine in NATO weakens the security of their own states.

"No one doubts, neither in Poland, nor in Europe, nor in NATO, that today the Ukrainian army is one of the most prepared in the world for armed operations, unfortunately. Because the war forced such a change," Tusk said during a joint conversation together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with Ukrainian students.

At the same time, he noted that the key problem now is not the assessment of the Ukrainian army.

"We, Poles, understand well what Russian aggression is and what a challenge it is ... Every normal politician would like to have the Ukrainian army in the organization that is responsible for the security of his state - in NATO. And NATO would, of course, be much stronger if Ukraine became a member of the Alliance. And, by the way, the Polish government convinces all skeptics that this is in the interests of every NATO member and that it is necessary for Ukraine to become a NATO member as soon as possible," the Prime Minister said.

According to Tusk, "the Poles themselves do not need to be convinced of this, because we in Poland know well that Poland's security depends directly on how Russia's war against Ukraine ends."

"Of course, many people in Poland are thinking about what the consequences of Ukraine joining the EU and NATO will be. There are some common interests, sometimes there is an objective conflict of interests. You have heard how transport companies have blocked border crossings. There was a grain problem because Polish farmers were afraid of competition, but we are trying to solve this kind of problem," he said.

If, as the Polish Prime Minister noted, we are talking about fundamental issues related to the security of Ukraine, Poland, Europe and the entire free world, NATO, then it is in the interests of this world for Ukraine to join NATO.

"This is an obvious way to increase the security of the entire free world. And I hope that this truth will affect everyone without exception," Tusk added.

"If you are a member of NATO, and I am trying to explain this to a European prime minister who said a few days ago that he did not want Ukraine to become a member of NATO. Someone who is the prime minister of a European state and does not want Ukraine to join NATO, in my opinion, this weakens the security of their own state. And it should be understood by everyone. I want a safe Poland, Hungary, Germany, France, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Romania. And so, it is in their interests for Ukraine to be in NATO," he concluded.
Pop superstar Ariana Grande has released her first single in three years, but apparently its not winning her many new fans on Instagram. In fact, it may be driving the departure of over 350,000 of her followers on the social media app.

The new song, titled yes, and? has debuted at number one on the Global Spotify Chart and garnered over 11 million streaming plays on the day of its release, according to Huffington Post.
Update: Central Pa. grandmother dies after trying to save family from fire

An online fundraiser has been started for what was described as a family that lost three of its six members in the fatal fire that broke out early Sunday morning in North Londonderry Township.

The fire occurred on Patton Road just outside Palmyra around 1:30 a.m. Monday, according to ABC27; police told the news station that three people were pronounced dead at Hershey Medical Center, and three more were hospitalized with injuries.

Water had to be pumped in to fight the flames due to a lack of hydrants in the area, ABC27 reported, and the incident is under investigation by the state fire marshals office.

The county coroners office has not yet released further information on the victims, but they are described by the GoFundMe page as a family with a long road ahead of us that will include medical bills and memorial costs.

PennLive was unable to immediately reach the creator of the GoFundMe for more information.

You can contribute by clicking on this link.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  A Republican running for the U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania is escalating criticism of Democrats over the Israel-Hamas war and has traveled to the Israel-Gaza border to make the case that the Biden administration hasnt backed Israel strongly enough since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas.

The criticism by GOP candidate David McCormick reflects the delicate political challenge facing both President Joe Biden and incumbent Democratic Sen. Bob Casey in a state Democrats cant afford to lose in 2024.
The federal Liberals have announced a national summit on auto theft, aimed at getting provinces and industry officials together to form a solution to cars being stolen and shipped abroad. CBSA Superintendent Jean-Francois Rainville removes a mattress that was used to hide a stolen Toyota Sequoia in a container at a news conference in Montreal, Thursday, July 17, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz
High Representative of the European Union for Foreign and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, will visit Ukraine in February.

He made the corresponding announcement at a press conference after the meeting of the EU Council on Foreign Affairs in Brussels on Monday.

Borrell said he would go to Ukraine in the first days of the second week of February.

The High Representative did not give a specific number  in accordance with the practice of such visits by EU representatives, the date is usually not announced.

Borrell also did not specify his plans, with whom he intends to meet and what goals he sets during this visit.
Fabio Wibmer - The Streif:

Benched:

Phil Atwill - Best Of 2023:

Introducing Tomas Lemoine:

Vermont Sugar Trails - Trail Tales:

Kaylee Gibb - Threat:

Emma Olofsson - Sanctuary:

Harry Barrett - Ambiance:

Dean Tennant - Shreducation:

Jack Neff - Bowhead Shred:

Corey Walsh - End Of The World:

Corey Walsh - It's Later Than You Think:

Kriss Kyle - Raw 100:

Dan & Dennis:

Ishod Wair - Max Freestyle Part:

Yuri Facchini - Shake Junt Part:

Alex Megos - Bibliographie:

Anni Karava - Midnight Blue:

The Pass:

Requiem For A Whale:

We're back on snow! This time I'm crashing the preparations for the most legendary ski race in the world - the Streif.On March 12th pro cyclist and Endurance World Champion, Sonya Looney, posted an Instagram video of herself rocking rollers and sweeping berms through a mini pump track in Knox Mountain Park in Kelowna, British Columbia. Of course, thats no big deal for a woman who is a four-time U.S. mountain bike champion and winner of numerous stage races. But at that moment, she was 40 weeks and four days pregnant. She gave birth to a healthy baby boy just a few days later. Navigating life as a pro athlete, and now a pregnant athlete, in Benched we see it's not for the faint-of-heart. There is no playbook and putting yourself out there and sharing the journey takes vulnerability and courage, two things Sonya has a lot of. Director: Bronwyn Davies.Your favourite rider's favourite rider.Some partnerships are obvious... Tomas Lemoine is one of a kind and welcoming him to the family was also that! Video: Leon Perrin.The spectacular Vermont fall is best experienced by bike. With vibrant changing colours of the leaves and sweet smells that fill your lungs as you ride, the trail system encompassing this sugar wonderland provides a place for harmony and community. The careful maintenance of the land by both the sugar makers and the Vermont Mountain Bike Association ensures this will be a sustainable ecosystem to continue to enjoy for generations to come.May 1, 2023 I destroyed my shoulder. After surgery I was told it may take up to a year before being able to ride like I used to. I needed something to fill the void.... this is where the ideas started. I found some old shoes, saw some old Kenda tires that had life and I just couldn't part with them. And then this idea was born.From the minute we saw Emma Olofsson on a bike we knew that her DNA fits who we are fearless to be herself, dedicated to do things her own way, and unapologetic in who she is. Rider: Emma Olofsson. Video: Jacob Nilzen.Ambiance; the overall atmosphere or mood of a place, influenced by factors such as lighting, style, and sound, creating a distinctive and immersive experience for those present. For Harry Barrett living in Whistler, the ambiance is set with endless bike park laps, variable weather, and guaranteed good times. Catch up with Harry as he delivers his signature style and ASMR-worthy sounds while the variable summer weather handles the lighting and mood. Only 127 days until bike park season returns. Thank you for three epic years of partnership, Harry. Were wishing you all the best in whats to come. Happy trails, legend. Featuring: Harry Barrett. Video: Liam Morgan.We filmed this in 2015, during my time going to Camosun College for civil engineering and living with my parents at home. I still ride for Dunbar Cycles and Transition Bikes, both have been longterm sponsors. Im thankful I found time for mountain biking amongst the busy-ness of life. I hope this video inspires people to keep their passions alive despite lifes other distractions. Enjoy.We went to Bend Oregon to ride with Jack Neff after Sea Otter. He competed at Sea Otter for the first time this year. He's 16 and rides with his Dad after school everyday. He's never not smiling.10 minutes of unbelievable clips from one of the best in the biz.In an era where it's increasingly difficult to stand out as a rider, there's one name that's been mentioned more than most here at DIG throughout 2018: Corey Walsh. That slam he took at the beginning of this Its Later Than You Think section was brutal. Yet, even with mutilating his jaw from that crash, he came back and wrapped up such a fierce (and his first ever) section, which is all about high speed, keeping it simple and riding his own way, in a wild fashion, of course. As witnessed in his ILTYT part, Corey is also becoming a master of sniffing out insanely large transfers where no person has gone prior, and executed them with such a casual and controlled style. And those obscenely kicked-out whips; who can ever get enough of those? Not to mention hes been living out of a van for a chunk of the year, seeking warmer winter temps than what Canada offers and soaking up as much concrete on two wheels as possible. Whats not to love? Corey Walsh is one of a kind, and a roasting hot breath of fresh air.With the Scottish winter in full swing, king of style and steeze Kriss Kyle took to his local skatepark for an absolute shred session to kick the winter doldrums. The man never disappoints when it comes to pushing the boundaries of BMX and how he attacks a park, so we decided to take our Raw 100 series indoors to listen to the pure shredding as Kriss explores Unit 23.Skateboarder first, visually impaired second, inspiration forever. From day one, Dan Mancina skated the Busenitz as his go-to skate shoe, and as a visually impaired skateboarder, a shoe's fit, feel, and function are essential to Dan. He has proven that impossible is nothing. By partnering with Dan on his favorite silhouette, we can celebrate his story and inspire the next generation. This edit pays homage to the Busenitz while celebrating Dan's signature color way of the iconic silhouette. Video: Chris Mulhern.Classic Ishod style.This part will make you wanna grab the homies and hit a road trip. Yuri holds it down for Brasil, but this footage is from all over. As he takes us to the plazas in Milan, to the legendary spots of Barcelona, all the way to the US. Pop, speed, and style. Yep, the future is lookin bright for young Yuri! Hug the block!Alex Megos never met a route he couldnt climb in short order that was until he encountered Bibliographie, an undone sport line at the French super-crag, Ceuse. In 2017, Megos first tried the route that would become his three-year project. On the path to the send he encountered doubts and injuries and qualified for the Olympics. It wasnt until COVID turned the world upside down that he was able to return to Ceuse and close the books on one of the hardest routes ever climbed. Video: Hans Radetzki.Thanks to Ruka Ski Resort, Otto Riekkinen, and Mikko Rehnberg. Video: Arttu Heikkinen.In Rogers Pass, the Trans-Canada Highway and Canadian Pacific Railway wind underneath 134 avalanche paths that release 2,000 avalanche events each winter, controlled by military artillery, helicopters, and remote control systems. It was off-limits to ski touring for decades. Then a surprising player stepped up to help mastermind the Passs modern winter permit system thats designed to keep skiers safe from Howitzers and controlled avalanches. In this 12-minute film, we meet Sylvia Forest (63), a woman who rose to leadership in the rugged worlds of mountain rescue, guiding, and avalanche safety before equal representation was a blip on the radar, and one of the architects of the permit system in 1995. In turn, she mentored Danyelle Magnan, who recently becameafter her own formidable experience in remote backcountry rescue and ski guidingthe first woman on the elite Rogers Pass avalanche forecasting team thats responsible for thousands of lives on a daily basis. The duo reunite in the Pass for their first ski tour together after ten years, to reflect on their journeys in the face of high-risk elements, immense pressure, and long-established cultural norms. In quietly and impressively showing whats possible, these two women represent a small but pivotal part of the seismic shift happening to the face of mountain culture. Director: Andrea Wing.After a deceased fin whale washes ashore in Israel, onlookers process its life and death, in a short documentary by Ido Weisman.Photo: Nicolas Brizin
Max Deveson Wins 2024 WSOPC Marrakech Main Event (200,000)

January 22, 2024 Maxime Taldir Live Reporter

In the end, the final duel at the end of the 2024 WSOP Circuit Marrakech Main Event was a rollercoaster.

After a two-and-a-half-hour-long heads-up battle where both players had opportunities to win, Max Deveson was the one who was finally crowned champion at the Casino de Marrakech inside the Es Saadi Resort.

Deveson is now the proud owner of a WSOP Circuit ring and takes home 2,150,000 MAD (approximately 200,000). Obviously exhausted and disappointed, Antoine Delorme finishes in second place out of a field of 1,163 entrants, heading home with 1,550,000 MAD (143,000).

2024 WSOP Circuit Marrakech Main Event Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize (in MAD) Prize (in EUR) 1 Max Deveson United Kingdom 2,150,000 200,000 2 Antoine Delorme France 1,550,000 143,000 3 Sandro Jose Alves Portugal 1,100,000 101,000 4 Nicola Pezzullo Italy 800,000 74,000 5 Jean-Claude Ruche Belgium 610,000 56,000 6 Victor Spain 490,000 45,000 7 Guillaume Garcia France 405,000 37,000 8 Yuzhou Yin China 335,000 31,000 9 Igor Picone Belgium 275,000 25,000

Winner's Reaction

The British player, now established in South Africa, began the festival on a high note, finishing fourth in the Opener for 162,000 MAD. "I was kind of sad but very fortunate," he said, remembering this tournament.

However, any lingering sadness completely disappeared from his range of emotions after winning the big onethe Main Event. "I'm very tired. But getting through 1,163 players and having two deep runs in big fields in one week is kind of crazy. Hopefully, it will happen again!"

Yet, winning the tournament wasn't an easy feat for this cash game player who transitioned to tournaments. "I hadnt really thought about that win until four or five people left. Then, once I started to build a stack and got to the chip lead, I was confident I was gonna get to the final two" he explained.

However, once heads-up, his confidence was put to the test with multiple turnarounds against Antoine Delorme. "To be honest, when I had a big chip lead, it felt like I was winning every hand. Then I lost the all-ins, and as soon as he won those, he built confidence. It was a bit deflecting. It felt like it was his tournament.

"But I was fortunate with the king-three against king-jack. And from there I cruised control, had good hands, played as well as I could, and I was fortunate I come out on top".

Final Day's Action

Out of a total field of 1,163 entrants, 21 players returned on Day 3, all with dreams of winning the prestigious WSOP Circuit golden ring. However, for Filippo Lazzaretto, who started the final day with the shortest stack, the dream seemed a bit far. And he became the first player eliminated of the day, finishing 21st for 73,000 MAD.

Lazzaretto was followed to the cashier by Day 1a chip leader Jean-Pierre Grand-Moursel (20th, 88,000 MAD), Jawad Bengourane (19th, 88,000 MAD), Mostafa Essanhaji (18th, 88,000 MAD), and Endravuz Lahdo. Unlike his brother Samiyel Duzgun, the winner of the Main Event in 2020, Lahdo was eliminated in 17th place (110,000 MAD). However, this turned out to be for the best, as he immediately jumped into a Turbo event and won his first WSOP ring!

Following Lahdo's elimination, the remaining 16 players gathered at the last two tables, but Wim Verhaegen (110,000 MAD) quickly abandoned them. The same fate befell Roger Tondeur (14th, 140,000 MAD), Manuel Machado (who struggled for a long moment with a very short stack), and Adrien Sanz (13th, 180,000 MAD).

Chip leader at the beginning of the day, Mohamed Hakim maintained his lead during the first hours, but failed to reach the final table as he was eliminated by Nicola Pezzullo's kings. Thanks to this pot, Pezzullo began the final table with the biggest stack.

From this point onward, Pezzullo dominated the final table, becoming the first player with over 10,000,000 chips and sending both Igor Picone (9th, 275,000 MAD) and Victor (6th, 490,000 MAD) to the rail. Between these eliminations, Yuzhou Yin with jacks ran into Jean-Claude Ruche's queens, finishing in 8th place for 335,000 MAD, and Guillaume Garcia (7th, 405,000 MAD) saw Antoine Delorme hit his king on the river.

After Sandro Jose Alves doubled up through him, Jean-Claude Ruche fell to less than a blind. Thanks to a pot won and a split, he managed to reach the next break but was eliminated by the future winner, Max Deveson, at the restart. At the same time, Pezzullo progressively lost his chip lead and handed it over to Antoine Delorme. He was eventually eliminated with king-nine against Sandro Jose Alves ace-king (4th, 800,000 MAD).

The same Alves found himself at risk not long after with queens. However, Max Deveson was lucky enough to hit a runner-runner flush to send Alves to the rail (3rd Place, 1,100,000 MAD) and start the heads-up play with almost twice Antoine Delormes stack.

The beginning of the final duel was one-sided, with Deveson quickly extending his lead to 80% of the chips in play. However, the situation took a turn when Delorme doubled up twice, allowing him to have a first opportunity to win the tournament. Holding king-jack, he had the best hand preflop, but Deveson hit a pair with king-three to double up. Deveson doubled up again a few hands later, reclaiming the first-place position.

Finally, after a split in another all-in and call situation, the cards went on their backs one last time, with a seven of hearts completing Devesons flush on the river to secure the WSOPC Marrakech Main Event victory.

That concludes the PokerNews coverage of the 2024 WSOPC Marrakech Main Event. Stay tuned for more updates from tournaments around the world.

Sharelines Deveson defeated Frenchman Antoine Delorme heads-up to win the WSOPC Marrakech Main Event
The final duel felt like a roller coaster! After a two-and-a-half-hour-long heads-up battle where both players had opportunities to win, Max Deveson was the one who was finally crowned the champion of the 2024 WSOP Circuit Marrakech Main Event, here at the Casino de Marrakech inside the Es Saadi Resort.

Deveson is now the proud owner of a WSOP Circuit ring and takes home 2,150,000 MAD (approximately 200,000). Obviously exhausted and disappointed, Antoine Delorme finishes in second place out of a field of 1,163 entrants, going back home with 1,550,000 MAD (143,000).

2024 WSOP Circuit Marrakech Main Event Results

Place Player Country Prize (in MAD) Prize (in EUR) 1 Max Deveson United Kingdom 2,150,000 200,000 2 Antoine Delorme France 1,550,000 143,000 3 Sandro Jose Alves Portugal 1,100,000 101,000 4 Nicola Pezzullo Italy 800,000 74,000 5 Jean-Claude Ruche Belgium 610,000 56,000 6 "Victor" Spain 490,000 45,000 7 Guillaume Garcia France 405,000 37,000 8 Yuzhou Yin China 335,000 31,000 9 Igor Picone Belgium 275,000 25,000

Winner's Reaction

The British player, now established in South Africa, began the festival on a high note, finishing fourth in the Opener for 162,000 MAD. "I was kind of sad but very fortunate," he said, remembering this tournament.

However, any lingering sadness completely disappeared from his range of emotions after winning the big onethe Main Event. "I'm very tired. But getting through 1,163 players and having two deep runs in big fields in one week is kind of crazy. Hopefully, it will happen again!"

Yet, winning the tournament wasn't an easy feat for this cash game player who transitioned to tournaments. "I didnt really think about that win until four or five people left. Then, once I started to build a stack and got to the chip lead, I was confident I was gonna get to the final two," he explained.

However, once in heads-up, his confidence was tested with multiple turnarounds against Delorme. "To be honest, when I had a big chip lead, it felt like I was winning every hand. Then I lost the all-ins, and as soon as he won those, he built confidence. It was a bit deflecting. It felt like it was his tournament. But I was fortunate with the king-three against king-jack. And from there, I cruised control, had good hands, played as well as I could, and I was fortunate I came out on top".

Max Deveson

Final Day's Action

Out of a total field of 1,163 entrants, 21 players returned on Day 3, all with dreams of winning the prestigious WSOP Circuit golden ring. However, for Filippo Lazzaretto, who started the final day with the shortest stack, the dream seemed a bit far. And he became the first player eliminated of the day, finishing 21st for 73,000 MAD.

Lazzaretto was followed to the cashier by Day 1a chip leader Jean-Pierre Grand-Moursel (20th, 88,000 MAD), Jawad Bengourane (19th, 88,000 MAD), Mostafa Essanhaji (18th, 88,000 MAD), and Endravuz Lahdo. Unlike his brother Samiyel Duzgun, the winner of the Main Event in 2020, Lahdo was eliminated in 17th place (110,000 MAD). However, this was for the best, as he immediately jumped into a Turbo event and won his first WSOP ring.

Endravuz Lahdo

Following Lahdo's elimination, the remaining 16 players gathered at the last two tables, but Wim Verhaegen (110,000 MAD) quickly abandoned them. The same fate befell Roger Tondeur (14th, 140,000 MAD), Manuel Machado (who struggled for a long moment with a very short stack), and Adrien Sanz (13th, 180,000 MAD).

The chip leader at the beginning of the day, Mohamed Hakim maintained his lead during the first hours, but failed to reach the final table as he was eliminated by Nicola Pezzullo's kings. Pezzullo began the final table with the biggest stack thanks to this pot.

From this point onward, Pezzullo dominated the final table, becoming the first player with over 10,000,000 chips and sending both gor Picone (9th, 275,000 MAD) and "Victor" (6th, 490,000 MAD) to the rail. Between these eliminations, Yuzhou Yin with jacks ran into Jean-Claude Ruche's queens, finishing in eighth place for 335,000 MAD, and Guillaume Garcia (7th, 405,000 MAD) saw Delorme hit his king on the river.

After Sandro Jose Alves doubled up through him, Jean-Claude Ruche fell to less than a blind. Thanks to a pot won and a split, he managed to reach the next break but was eliminated by the future winner, Deveson, at the restart. At the same time, Pezzullo progressively lost his chip lead and handed it over to Delorme. He was eventually eliminated with king-nine against Sandro Jose Alves ace-king (4th, 800,000 MAD).

The same Alves found himself at risk not long after with queens. However, Deveson was lucky enough to hit a runner-runner flush to send Alves to the rail (3rd Place, 1,100,000 MAD) and start the heads-up play with almost twice Delormes stack.

Antoine Delorme and Max Deveson

The beginning of the final duel was one-sided, with Deveson quickly extending his lead to 80% of the chips in play. However, the situation took a turn when Delorme doubled up twice, allowing him to have a first opportunity to win the tournament. Holding king-jack, he had the best hand preflop, but Deveson hit a pair with king-three to double up. Deveson doubled up again a few hands later, reclaiming the first-place position.

Finally, after a split in another all-in and call situation, the cards went on their backs one last time, with a seven of hearts completing Devesons flush on the river to secure the WSOPC Marrakech Main Event victory.

Max Deveson

That concludes the PokerNews coverage of the 2024 WSOPC Marrakech Main Event. Stay tuned for more updates from tournaments around the world.
The Miami Herald published a blistering editorial that took Gov. Ron DeSantis to task for using Florida for his presidential ambitions but then endorsing Trump.

The editorial board wrote:

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.



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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.

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 screwed up Florida or screwed it up more, depending on your perspective, because he wanted to be president. Gov. DeSantis will now head back to Florida for the next three years unless his sucking up to Trump lands him on the presidential ticket or with a job in a future Trump administration.

DeSantis is only 45 years old, but his campaign was such a spectacular failure that it is difficult to see him ever being a credible presidential candidate again. Ron DeSantis was supposed to save the GOP from Trump, but instead, he dropped out before New Hampshire and kissed the gold-plated handcuffs of the likely Republican presidential nominee and potentially convicted felon.

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Rep. Mike Johnson thinks that God elevated him to be the Speaker of the House, but his days as speaker look to be numbered as Republican outrage grows.

Politico reported:

A growing number of House Republicans are increasingly frustrated with Johnsons leadership and whispering about whether he can hang on to his role after 2024  if he even makes it that far.

Despite serving barely three months as speaker, the Louisianan is already facing an immediate threat from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who openly disparages him and suggests she may try to boot him from the speakership.

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I dont think hes safe right now, Greene said, adding: The only reason hes speaker is because our conference is so desperate.

Read More About Johnson By Subscribing To Our Newsletter The Daily:



Speaker Johnson believes that God chose him to be the speaker. God apparently only chose Johnson after every other Republican in the House majority who wanted the job couldnt win it.

It seems unfathomable that House Republicans would fire a speaker after getting a speaker in place has been such a nightmare, but the same group of House Republicans that kicked Kevin McCarthy to the curb, minus Rep. Greene, have been grumbling about Johnson agreeing to a funding deal to keep the government.

There is a group of House Republicans who want to shut down the government over the border. This same group would be happy to get the government shut down until after the 2024 election.

Mike Johnson committed the same offense as Kevin McCarthy. Johnson dared to work with Democrats to keep the government open instead of allowing Trumps MAGA minions in the House to burn it all down.

House Republicans may keep Johnson around as speaker through the current Congress, but if the 2024 election goes as badly for them as experts think it will, MAGA Mikes days in House leadership will be over.

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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.
One of Aiken's largest and oldest congregations is on track to change its denominational affiliation in the wake of a Jan. 21 vote by church members.

St. John's United Methodist Church, which dates back to 1856 and occupies a city block in downtown Aiken, held a vote "on separation from the UMC" on Sunday afternoon, and members voted 788-109 to part ways with the denomination. The church currently has a membership of 2,451.

Jennifer Windham, representing the St. John's church conference, offered a Sunday update to congregation members, noting, "We are grateful for the great turnout for our church vote this afternoon."

The Rev. Butch Blackwell, an associate pastor at St. John's, said, "I think the vote yesterday was the voice of the people of St. John's saying the best way to remain who we've always been is to vote to move forward."

Thousands of other United Methodist congregations have made similar decisions over the past several years, as observed in a December 2023 Associated Press report noting that the vast majority "are conservative-leaning churches responding to what they see as the United Methodists failure to enforce bans on same-sex marriage and the ordaining of openly LGBTQ persons."

It also addressed the months ahead. "The first denomination-wide legislative gathering in eight years, slated for spring 2024, will consider calls to liberalize policies on marriage and ordination. It will also debate rival proposals, either to decentralize the international church  which has at least as many members outside the United States as in  or provide overseas congregations with the same exit option their U.S. counterparts had."

The Rev. Tim McClendon, the congregation's senior pastor, noted the 88 percent majority and credited the St. John's church council with "a wonderful job of informing the congregation about the issues."
The youngest Black woman to ever serve in Congress visited Aiken on Sunday afternoon as part of the South Carolina Democratic Party's effort to get out the vote for the Feb. 3 First in the Nation Democratic presidential primary.

Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, D-Ill., spoke on behalf of the campaign of presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden at a meet and greet held at the USC Aiken Student Activities Center.

Underwood became the youngest Black woman to serve when she was sworn in Jan. 3, 2019. Underwood also became the first Black woman since Shirley Chisholm in the 1970s to hold a leadership position in the Democratic House Caucus when she was elected to the Policy and Communications Committee in 2022.

"I've been a longtime supporter of President [Joe] Biden and Vice President [Kamala] Harris," Underwood said before the event began.

Underwood endorsed Biden before the 2020 election, the same day he picked Harris as his vice presidential nominee.

"This is the First in Nation primary," Underwood said. "This is the first time South Carolina's been the first state."

The Democratic National Committee voted last year to make South Carolina the first primary for the 2024 election. The move was widely seen as a reward to the state's voters and Congressman Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., for helping propel Biden to the Democratic nomination in 2020.

"The power of the Black vote has been so tremendous here within this state," Underwood said.

In 2020, 60 percent of the people who voted in the Democratic primary were Black.

"I wanted to make sure people understood how much power they had and that they were so enthusiastic about getting out the vote as I feel about this upcoming election," Underwood said. "So, I was really honored to be asked and happy to come and travel from Illinois and talk to some folks around your community."
Dragon Capital Property Management invested about $10 million in the real estate portfolio as a whole for 2023 and plans the same level of investment for 2024, Dragon Capital Property Management commercial director Natalia Kravets told Interfax-Ukraine.

She clarified that in the fall of 2023 the company sold the Pory Roku (Seasons) business center to the end consumer; details, according to the agreement, are not disclosed. Currently, Dragon Capital PM manages 28 commercial real estate properties, including 12 business centers, six retail facilities and 10 logistics complexes, with a total area of 647,000 square meters.

"Currently we have no plans to sell properties from the portfolio; on the contrary, we are considering attractive opportunities for privatization. We are constantly investing in our real estate properties: we complete the construction we have begun, carry out reconstructions, make repairs and improvements for tenants, carry out finishing and landscaping work. In total, In 2023, we invested about $10 million in our real estate portfolio and are planning the same level of investment for 2024," Kravets said.

Overall, she was cautiously optimistic about the results for 2023. Vacancy in the company's business centers has decreased significantly in Vinnytsia and Lviv, and is minimal in the capital with locations in the central business district of the capital and near the metro. Vacancy has increased in Kyiv business centers, which are located next to critical infrastructure facilities, at a relative distance from the city center, as well as on the Left Bank.

According to the companys commercial director, the portrait of the tenant has changed in 2022-2023. If before the war the bulk of the demand was provided by IT companies, now their share has decreased significantly, and potential tenants include FMCG companies, retailers, and industrial companies.

"Recently, there have been a lot of requests from so-called call centers, but we prefer not to even negotiate with such companies because of their toxicity," Kravets said.

She added that last year rental rates dropped significantly and tenant expectations increased.

Overall, 2023 was an active year in the office segment.

"During the year, we signed contracts with tenants for more than 2,000 square meters, and for smaller areas. The main thing is that the majority of our current tenants extend their contracts with us for 12-60 months, and this inspires us to work even better. We really care about the safety and loyalty of all our residents," she said.

Four business centers of the company have coworking spaces.

"We plan to attract them to almost every business center, so we are currently negotiating with several co-working spaces in Kyiv and Lviv," Kravets said.

As for retail real estate, 2023 proved to be quite successful for all five shopping centers of the company.
SAINT HELENA ISLAND  A 19-year-old man suspected of shooting his cousin was arrested Jan. 19.

Laventis Cohen was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center on charges of attempted murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Officials allege that Cohen shot a 36-year-old man, believed to be his cousin, on Saint Helena Island on Jan. 19.

The gunshot victim was found by deputies with the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office while responding to reports of shots fired near Coffin Point Road just before 5 p.m. The unnamed 36-year-old had a gunshot wound to his leg and was taken to Beaufort Memorial Hospital for treatment, according to a press release from the sheriff's office.

Cohen was named as a suspect and found in a home near the crime scene where he was detained by deputies Jan. 19. He was released on bond the afternoon of Jan. 20.

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Officials ask that anyone with information related to the incident contact the Sheriffs Office. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry at 843-554-1111.
When Hamricks Inc. closed its only Charleston-area store more than a decade ago, an executive for the Upstate merchandiser vowed to plot a return.

Its on its way.

The Gaffney-based retail chain announced Jan. 22 that it is moving into the former Toys R Us store in the Promenade at Northwoods shopping center at 7900 Rivers Ave. in North Charleston.

It plans to open in the fall. A remodeling of the space is underway.

Jacob Hamrick, chief operating officer, said the Upstate retail chain is growing and sees the Charleston area as a great store location.

We have always appreciated the patronage from our customers in this area and we want to continue that successful relationship for many years to come, he said in written statement.

The family-owned retailer sells apparel, shoes, home goods and gifts.

The business was founded in 1945 when Oliver and Edna Hamrick bought a small grocery and general merchandise store in Gaffney, which is along Interstate 85 east of Spartanburg.

The company now operates 20 low-price retail outlets in the Carolinas, Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia. The two locations nearest to the Charleston area are in Myrtle Beach and Columbia.

Hamrick's had operated a store in North Charleston from the late 1980s until 2011, when a sluggish economy led to the closing of the Festival Centre location on Ashley Phosphate Road just as the lease was about to lapse.

"We hope to return to that area in the future, but we have no immediate plans," an executive told The Post and Courier at the time.

The former Toys R Us space Hamrick's is moving into has been vacant since mid-2018. Other tenants in the 317,400-square-foot shopping center across from Northwoods Mall include Hobby Lobby, Gander Outdoors and Ollie's Bargain Outlet.
COLUMBIA  The state inspector general has initiated an investigation into the Richland One School District after it suddenly stopped construction on its planned Vince Ford Early Learning Center project.

The investigation, prompted by a Jan. 22 request from State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver to review the center's "financing, procurement, and construction," follows a Jan. 19 stop-work order issued by Richland County to the district that halted the center's construction after county officials realized the district did not have a building permit for the project.

That stop-work order was prompted by a December letter from the state Department of Education to the district, which informed Richland One Superintendent Craig Witherspoon that since the planned center was not intended to serve K-12 students but instead those between 6 weeks and 5 years old, it would not be considered a public school building under the purview of the department's Office of School Facilities.

Therefore, Weaver wrote in her Jan. 22 letter to Inspector General Brian Lamkin, the Department of Education did not have the authority to issue a school building permit to the district.

The district also did not have a Richland County building permit, according to a Jan. 19 letter from County Administrator Leonardo Brown to Witherspoon, so the county issued the stop work order the same day, spokeswoman Susan O'Cain told The Post and Courier.

Weaver's request for an inspection was also prompted by a Jan. 19 letter from state Rep. Heather Bauer, D-Columbia, who requested an inspector general investigation into the district and its planned center.
The average age in America's coastal communities could climb in coming decades as rising sea levels push younger residents further inland and away from the coast.

That's according to a study published Jan. 8 in the peer-reviewed journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research theorizes that the average age of some coastal communities could increase by more than 10 years by 2100.

Matt Hauer, a researcher at Florida State University and the lead author of the study, said the average age increase is only part of the problem.

The other part concerns a process called "demographic amplification" and its relationship to a changing climate. Essentially, as more people move away from the coast and further inland, they'll take critical services with them; like health care workers, construction workers and teachers. In addition to depriving aging coastal communities of those services, the lack of resources can accelerate out-bound migration and entice new residents away from the coast and towards those receiving areas.

"A lot of times, when we think about climate migration, we end up focusing only on the migrants, and we don't think about ancillary effects of the migration," said Hauer, who's also the associate director of FSU's Center for Demography and Population Health. "So if you're a city, state or a place trying to plan for either population loss or population gain, just thinking about 'Well, how many people are going to move?' is going to miss a large chunk of the overall population change you will have."

Hauer and his co-authors argue that, taking demographic amplification into account, true climate migration numbers could be anywhere from 5.3 to 18 times the number estimated by displacement models that only examine migration influenced solely by sea level rise. Under Hauer's framework, Charleston County could lose around 250,000 residents by 2100.
GEORGETOWN  A popular Georgetown restaurateur whose multifaceted career included work as an attorney and a musician was killed in a car wreck over the weekend.

Tom Hall, founder of the restaurant Between the Antlers, died on Jan. 20 when the Ford F-150 he was driving overturned, according to the S.C. Highway Patrol. Hall was traveling east on Bluff Road in Richland County when his truck veered to the right onto McCords Ferry Road at approximately 11:30 p.m.

He was the only occupant of the truck and died at the scene, authorities said.

We are sad to announce the passing of our founder Tom Hall, the restaurant said in a Jan. 21 Facebook post. He passed away last night in a car accident. Our entire Antler family is devastated and there are no words to explain our grief. Please in the coming days keep Amy and their entire family in your prayers.

Hall once told the Georgetown Times that he named Between the Antlers for late U.S. Poet Laureate and University of South Carolina professor James Dickeys book The Starry Place Between the Antlers.

Ahead of the restaurant's 2022 opening, Hall said his goal was to serve up the type of food that had been cooked in Georgetown for centuries, using products from within a 50-mile radius.

Between the Antlers was Hall's fifth venture into the restaurant industry. He previously owned Smoke Southern Barbecue Revival in Blythewood and led the band the Plowboys.

"I don't feel that busy, but there's a lot going on," Hall said in a 2017 interview with S.C. Public Radio.
CLEMSON  Four months after they saved the lives of fellow students, two Clemson University juniors are still being honored for their heroic efforts.

Joseph Pope received the Honor Medal with Crossed Palms from his Boy Scout Troop in Columbia on Jan. 21, the organization's highest honor. He and fellow Clemson junior Charles Segar have been credited with saving the lives of two 18-year-old students after a late-night wreck left their vehicle in flames.

Pope and Segar were nearly back to their apartment on Sept. 2 when Segar noticed a car off the side of the road at the three-way intersection of West Cherry and Cherry roads in Clemson.

The CATbus pulled to the side of the road grabbed more of his attention until he noticed the smoke coming from the car.

The two quickly decided to check on the vehicle and, through the smoke and deployed airbags, realized the driver was still inside. Segar had a hammer in the truck, so Pope busted out a window, unlocked the front door and they pulled 18-year-old Anderson Jones from the Nissan.

As they settled him into the bed of the truck, Jones let them know he had a passenger. Again, Pope busted out the back window to gain access to the vehicle.

I could see the girl in the front seat, leaning over the console and passed out, Pope said. I told Charles that I saw her and we went to the other side of the car. And at that point, though, smoke had turned into flames.

Emergency responders arrived just as they were checking Sofia Vega for a pulse, Pope said. While hes a certified lifeguard, an Eagle Scout and CPR certified through the Red Cross, Segar has no formal training.

In the chaos of the night  jumping into action, keeping bus riders away as they crowded around Vega  Pope cut his arm and later required stitches. They made sure to call the friends whose house they had left in case any reports of a car on fire was tied to Segars truck.
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
Fresh off his March 16 sheriff candidacy filing in North Charleston, Councilmember Carl Ritchie stated his designs on increasing services to the unincorporated areas of Charleston County if he gets voted into office in November. Read moreAspiring sheriff calls for more cops, coverage
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Various prominent cultural events have achieved great appeal in Azerbaijan, strengthening the country's creative atmosphere along with many other areas, thanks to the balanced and sensible policies of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev over the last 20 years, the Chairperson of the Composers Union of Azerbaijan, People's Artist, cavalier of the "Shohrat" and "Sharaf" orders, professor, Corresponding Member of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, UNESCO Artist for Peace, and laureate of the Aga Khan Music Awards-2019, Firanghiz Alizadeh told Trend.

"During these years, the festival movement has grown significantly, with numerous international festivals staged in the country, capturing the attention of experts, the general public, and foreign visitors. These music festivals are named after notable composers and performers such as Uzeyir Hajibayli, Gara Garayev, Fikrat Amirov, Niyazi, and Mstislav Rostropovich," she said. "The festivals in Gabala and Shaki have achieved great success, drawing renowned performing ensembles and a large audience to various regions of the country."

It's particularly gratifying that after Azerbaijan's glorious victory in the 2020 second Karabakh war, the international festival "Kharibulbul" has been restored in Shusha. Alizadeh stressed.

"After the liberation of our lands from Armenian occupation, this festival has been held three times already, receiving a warm response from our entire nation. The World of Mugham festival is also of great interest, combining not only concerts but also a competition of performers and an international scientific symposium," the People's Artist explained.

According to her, the state's significant attention, care, and reverent attitude towards the cultural heritage of the Azerbaijani people are bearing fruit, with the number of fans of Azerbaijani art expanding in many countries and expressing a desire to visit Azerbaijan.

"The President Ilham Aliyev's directives to celebrate the anniversaries of Nizami, Nasimi, Molla Panah Vagif, and other prominent figures of culture and art give special significance to these events, attracting even greater interest," she emphasized.

The People's Artist was also reminded of the immense importance of establishing the State Translation Center, whose work has led to the publication of many masterpieces of world classical literature as well as new works of contemporary foreign prose.

Alizadeh mentioned that the Composers Union of Azerbaijan is deeply grateful to President Ilham Aliyev for restoring justice and returning the historical building to the organization.

"This year, our organization celebrates its 90th anniversary. Throughout its history, members of the Union of Composers have never received scholarships. Now, thanks to the state's care, they receive a monthly stipendium. Just recently, last year, we received another gift: three creative unions: writers, artists, and composers received a new Creativity Center in Shabran," she added.

"It is a beautiful place with an impressive landscape and cottages equipped with all amenities, where people of the arts can create their new works, hold meetings and discussions, and exchange impressions with colleagues. I'm sure that we'll create new magnificent works worthy of our recent history," the People's Artist said.

"We have organized concerts several times featuring our new compositions. However, significant achievements in this field are still ahead of us because we have talented youth and a highly professional composition school, the foundations of which were laid by the great son of the Azerbaijani people, Uzeyir Hajibayli," she noted.

According to her, meetings with literary and artistic figures, discussions of current issues and problems, and the opening of new cultural centers, museums, and monuments contribute to the creation of an atmosphere of creative enthusiasm.

"It's thanks to the attention and support of President Ilham Aliyev that many creative collectives and individuals have improved their financial situation, were able to create new works of art, open exhibitions, shoot films, and join international festivals," she pointed out.

Alizadeh emphasized that everyone is currently deeply impressed by the interview of President Ilham Aliyev on local television channels, where a high culture of communication, deep and comprehensive knowledge, true patriotism, and conviction in the lofty goals and tasks facing Azerbaijan were demonstrated.

"We always admire the numerous visits of the head of state to Karabakh. President Ilham Aliyev's incredible commitment to the futurethe restoration of the destroyed landgives us hope for a new bright life in the liberated territories," concluded the chairperson of the Composers Union.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 71F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 41F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.
SEABROOK, N.H.  The GOP presidential race is now down to two just as Nikki Haley finally turned her full fire on GOP frontrunner Donald Trump after a year of avoiding direct confrontation.

With Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis  once considered the man who could topple Trump  dropping out of the race Jan. 21, it leaves Haley as the lone serious contender against the former president.

Speaking to a packed lobster shack here near the Atlantic coast after the news of the DeSantis exit broke, Haley said her former rival was a good governor and ran a good campaign.

There were 14 people in this race. They were a lot of fellas. All the fellas are out, except for this one, Haley said. For now, Ill leave you with this: May the best woman win.

The major reshuffle came just as Haley had pivoted toward a more aggressive approach versus the former president, completely breaking what was left of the uneasy detente between the two that had prevailed during the opening months of the race. In the past few days she has attacked Trumps mental competency, his age and what she said is his penchant for falsehood directly and forcefully for the first time in the campaign.

What do we know about Donald Trump?" Haley told reporters at a campaign stop in a seafood restaurant in Epping earlier in the day Sunday. "He proved when he was president hes good at breaking things, but he also proved that he doesnt know how to fix things.

Trumps claims she wants to raise taxes and cut Social Security?

That is a lie, Haley told reporters in Epping.

Trumps tall stack of congressional endorsements?

I think that it should concern every American that Donald Trump cares more about congressional endorsements and legislative endorsements than he does about fighting for it, she said.

The direct charges were a long way from the early days of the campaign when Haley would talk up Trumps brash approach to diplomacy and brag about advancing Trumps agenda at the United Nations when she was his administrations U.S. ambassador there.
U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, who is Nikki Haley's representative in Congress, has endorsed Donald Trump for president.

"I dont see eye to eye perfectly with any candidate," Mace, R-Isle of Palms, said on social media Jan. 22, adding that she felt it is time for Republicans to unite behind one nominee.

"Our country needs to reverse all the damage Joe Biden has done," she continued.

"By every barometer, our lives and our nation were better under President Trump," Mace added.

The declaration on the eve of the New Hampshire primary comes after Haley, who lives on Kiawah Island in Mace's 1st Congressional District, had endorsed Mace in her 2022 re-election bid in the GOP primary versus Katie Arrington, who was backed by Trump.

During an interview with The Post and Courier this month while on the presidential trail in Iowa, Haley was asked about the reality that many of the Republicans she endorsed in the 2022 midterms have not returned the favor now that she's running for president.

"When I helped people around the country in 2022, it's because I was looking out for the best in the country. It wasn't for an endorsement back," Haley said. "It was to make sure we were putting the right people in those positions."

Haley went all-in for Mace in 2022. At one event she called the congresswoman the one that will never disappoint you.

Trump and Mace have had a sometimes stressed relationship, including after the Jan. 6 Capitol riot when she said every accomplishment Republicans made in the prior four years  including Trump  were wiped out in just a few short hours.
South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott found love during the busiest political season of his life.

Over the Jan. 20 weekend and just one day after he endorsed Donald Trump for president, Scott got engaged to girlfriend Mindy Noce of Charleston.

"Listen, you fall in love, you realize you've met the woman of your dreams and you have an opportunity to ask her to be your bride," Scott told South Carolina reporters Jan. 22.

"You want that to be as personal and intimate of an experience as possible," he added. "Unfortunately, when you're a senator, you get a chance to share it with the entire world."

And share he did, posting social media photos of the proposal delivered on a cold beach on Kiawah Island.

In one image, Scott is seen on bended knee as Noce, bundled up in a white winter coat, looks down at him. In the other, the couple pose for a photo together, both smiling at the camera with a soft pink Lowcountry sky behind them.

"If you guys ever want to make your personal life as public as possible, run for office," Scott joked.

A message left at Noce's business seeking comment was not immediately returned.

Scott is the highest-ranking elected Black Republican in the country, and his recent endorsement of Trump has only renewed talk that he could be a potential vice presidential pick should Trump become the nominee.

Scott is 58 and has never been married.

Noce, 47, is a Charleston-area interior designer and mother of three who was previously married. (Court records show the divorce was finalized in 2007.)
CHESTER  A 20 percent salary increase for new deputies at the Chester County Sheriff's Office was long overdue to make the agency comparable with others, officials there say.

The raise, instituted in December, means new road deputies make $50,616 annually, while new detention center officers earn $46,096, spokeswoman Londa Pringle said. Before then, Chester deputies were making several thousand dollars a year less than law enforcement officers in northern neighbor York County.

"We needed to be competitive with surrounding counties," said Pringle, who interviewed a candidate on Jan. 19. "Chester County citizens shouldn't have to suffer for not having enough deputies here."

Pringle credited the budget increase to the Chester County Council and the support of County Administrator Brian Hester, who took the job last year after a long law enforcement career in Florida.

That raise puts the new hires on par with sheriff's office salaries in York, which put in place an 11 percent increase for road deputies last summer, to $50,000, and a 7 percent increase for detention officers, to $45,599, spokesman Trent Faris said.

York is holding a hiring event for corrections staff on Jan. 24 at the York County Prison, 778 Justice Blvd. Besides deputies for the prison, the Sheriff's Office is hiring nurses and booking clerks for the facility, as well, Faris said.

"Once hired, new recruits, both deputies and detention officers, will receive paid training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy," he said. "The pay will increase by 2.5 percent upon successful completion of the police academy and agency field training program."

Getting new deputies hired, however, is a smaller challenge than keeping them, notably for difficult jobs such as working at a jail, Faris said.
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Americas Generators demonstrates innovation and customer-centricity with the launch of a technical support hub tailored towards its generator users.MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Americas Generators, under the leadership of CEO Eric Johnston, is proud to announce the launch of an innovative Tech Support Hub in 2024. Primarily catering to the needs of Triton Generator users, this innovative service also offers valuable support for a variety of other generator brands, underlining its versatility and user-friendly design, saving time and reducing downtime for users, while ensuring a smooth operation.Americas Generators Tech Support HubThe Tech Support Hub showcases Americas Generators' commitment to customer service. It provides comprehensive guides to help users quickly identify and resolve common problems across a broad spectrum of generators, regardless of the manufacturer's brand name. This resource covers frequent concerns for a wide variety of generators, including EPA Certified, Tier 4 Final, Mobile, and UL2200 Certified units.Available in both English and Spanish, this Hub is built with user convenience in mind. Customers will find straightforward solutions to issues such as a generator shutting down, ECU errors, control panel connections, leak containment, and much more. The guides combine easy-to-read instructions with videos for better understanding regardless of the user's preferred media consumption format. Safety remains a top priority, with detailed guidelines and checklists for operating the generators.Eric Johnston, CEO of Americas Generators, emphasizes the value of this initiative, stating, "Our goal is to ensure that every customer can rely on their backup generator without hassle. This Tech Support Hub is a testament to our commitment to quick and efficient customer service, strengthening the trust and satisfaction of our clients." In addition to this online resource, the Americas Generators team continues to be available for direct support via phone and email for any inquiries, ensuring personalized assistance for every customer.With this resourceful Tech Support Hub, Americas Generators reaffirms its position as a leading provider of dependable backup generators. Customers can access this tool on Americas Generators' website and via their YouTube Channel, empowering them with practical, easy-to-understand solutions for effective generator operation.Contact Americas Generators:Address: 8511 NW 61st Street, Miami, FL 33166Website: www.americasgenerators.com Phone number: 305-592-6800Email: info@ gopower.com About Americas Generators:Americas Generators is a leading provider in the generator industry, renowned for its high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Established with a mission to offer reliable power solutions, the company has grown to become a trusted name for businesses and individuals alike. Americas Generators prides itself on offering a wide range of generators to meet diverse needs, for North America and the International Market. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Americas Generators continues to be at the forefront of the generator industry, delivering solutions that power businesses and communities around the world.Contact InformationYamile CarpioMarketing Managerycarpio@ gopower.com 3055926800SOURCE: Americas GeneratorsView the original press release on newswire.com
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ST. PETERSBURG, FL / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the Ashlee Morgan Scholarship for Healthcare Students emerges as a beacon of opportunity for dedicated individuals committed to transforming the industry. Under the visionary guidance of Ashlee Morgan, a certified tissue banking specialist with over a decade of experience, this scholarship stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in healthcare education.Scholarship Overview:The Ashlee Morgan Scholarship for Healthcare Students is a prestigious one-time award of $1,000, designed to support outstanding students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in healthcare-related fields. High school students with ambitions to pursue a healthcare degree at the university level are also eligible to apply. The scholarship places a premium on academic excellence, a genuine passion for healthcare, commitment to personal and professional growth, and exceptional problem-solving skills.Criteria for Eligibility:To be considered for the Ashlee Morgan Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria:Academic Pursuit: Current undergraduate or graduate students in healthcare-related fields or high school students with plans to pursue a healthcare degree.Excellence in Academics: Demonstrate exceptional academic performance and a consistent track record of outstanding scholastic achievements.Passion for Healthcare: Exhibit a profound commitment to the healthcare industry and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the well-being of patients and communities.Personal Growth: Dedication to continuous personal and professional growth within the healthcare sector.Essay Requirement: Submit a thoughtful essay of under 1000 words addressing a significant challenge in the healthcare industry and proposing an innovative solution.Problem-Solving Skills: Showcase creative and resourceful problem-solving abilities by identifying and addressing complex issues within the healthcare field.Entrepreneurship: For applicants interested in the second essay prompt, demonstrate a passion for entrepreneurship, an understanding of industry challenges, and a creative approach to problem-solving. The Driving Force: Ashlee Morgan's Vision and MissionThe Ashlee Morgan Scholarship is not just a financial award; it is a reflection of Ashlee Morgan's profound vision for advancing healthcare through education and innovation. Ashlee, a certified tissue banking specialist, embarked on a journey fueled by a fascination with the potential of regenerative medicine. This journey led to the discovery of the incredible properties of stem cells and birth tissue, especially the amnion, offering hope for patients facing various health challenges.The mission is clear: to educate, inspire, and inform. Ashlee Morgan's and her team are committed to providing a platform where individuals from all walks of life can access knowledge about the transformative world of stem cells and birth tissue. They aim to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday understanding, making complex science accessible to everyone.Join the Journey:Behind every piece of content on the Ashlee Morgan Scholarship website is a team of dedicated professionals led by Ashlee herself. With over a decade of experience, her commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and profound expertise in the field make her a valuable source of knowledge and insight.The scholarship invites eligible students to become part of this growing community of learners, healthcare professionals, patients, and curious minds. The website serves as a portal to a world of information, resources, and updates, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience from the basics of stem cells to the latest breakthroughs in birth tissue research.As the deadline for the scholarship approaches on April 15, 2024, eligible students are encouraged to apply, showcasing their passion for healthcare and innovative thinking. The winner of the Ashlee Morgan Scholarship will be announced on May 15, 2024, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for the recipient and a continuation of the scholarship's impact on healthcare education.Conclusion:The Ashlee Morgan Scholarship for Healthcare Students not only provides financial support but also fosters a community dedicated to exploration, discovery, and enlightenment in the world of stem cells and birth tissue. With a forward-looking vision and a commitment to excellence, Ashlee Morgan and her team invite all eligible students to join this exciting voyage of innovation and knowledge.For more information and to apply, visit https://ashleemorganscholarship.com/ . Explore, learn, and engage with the Ashlee Morgan Scholarship community, contributing to the evolution of medicine and the future of healthcare.Contact Info:Spokesperson: Ashlee MorganOrganization: Ashlee Morgan ScholarshipWebsite: https://ashleemorganscholarship.com Email: apply@ ashleemorganscholarship.com SOURCE: Ashlee Morgan Scholarship
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The coming presidential election in Azerbaijan will shape the country's future political history, Dean of the Faculty of Economics of the Turkic World of UNEC (Azerbaijan State Economy Unversity), Professor at Uludag University Mehmet Yuce told the Central Election Commission (CEC) of Azerbaijan, Trend reports via the CEC.

He noted that Azerbaijan liberated its lands from occupation, fully restored territorial integrity, and ensured sovereignty across the country.

"Azerbaijan seeks regional peace, plays a leading role in the Turkic world, collaborates with the European Union in energy, and made a significant contribution during its Non-Aligned Movement presidency," said Yuce.

The country has proven to be a reliable and strong state in the region, he added.

The professor emphasized that Azerbaijan is revitalizing the liberated Karabakh, aiming for a post-oil development model, attracting foreign investors, and focusing on sustainable development.

Yuce also highlighted that the upcoming election will mark the beginning of a new era of development in Azerbaijan.

On December 7, 2023, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on holding an extraordinary presidential election in the country on February 7, 2024.

The CEC on December 19 approved the candidacy of Ilham Aliyev, nominated by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP), for participation in the extraordinary presidential election.

Azerbaijan has registered seven candidates to run in the extraordinary presidential election.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Aton Resources Inc. (TSX-V:AAN) ("Aton" or the "Company") is pleased to provide investors with a corporate update on the re-organisation of its management team at its Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat" or the "Concession"), in the Eastern Desert of Egypt.Highlights:Robert Parr has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer, and will be responsible for overseeing the development of the mining projects at the Abu Marawat Concession; Tonno Vahk will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, to allow him to concentrate fully on a more traditional CEO role; Javier Orduna will become Aton's Chief Geologist, and will have responsibility for all the Company's geological operations, with Paul Angus promoted to Exploration Manager and taking more direct responsibility for management of the programmes within the retained exploration areas; In Egypt, Cherif Barakat will assume the role of General Manager and Country Manager, and will be responsible for the Company's in-country administrative activities and Government relations, while Samy Nabil Donkol becomes Operations Manager, assuming responsibility for all operations, logistics and security matters. "Aton is pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Parr as our new COO, who will be responsible for driving the mining projects forwards at Abu Marawat, now that we have been awarded the mining licence in Egypt, and we start the transition from being a pure exploration company to a mining company" said Tonno Vahk, CEO. "This transition also allows us to re-organise and strengthen the management team at corporate level and in Egypt, as we move towards creating the JV company that will operate the exploitation lease at Abu Marawat. Rob joins us as a highly experienced mining engineer with over 30 years of global experience, after having started his career in Australia. Rob comes to Aton with a wealth of experience in investment analysis, strategic planning, business transformation, feasibility studies, and new mine construction and mining operations. Rob has worked with several major mining companies during his career including Newmont, Rio Tinto, Perseus and Western Mining, and has recently held COO roles in Africa and South America. Cherif Barakat will become the General Manager, which will allow me to step back from a hands-on role in Egypt and to focus more fully on a traditional CEO role. Javier Orduna, Paul Angus and Samy Nabil, after having successfully led us to the issuance of the exploitation lease at Abu Marawat, will continue to head up the exploration and operations team in Egypt as the Company transitions to becoming a mining company and looks to evaluate other possible opportunities within Egypt and the wider region." About Aton Resources Inc.Aton Resources Inc. (AAN: TSX-V) is focused on its 100% owned Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat"), located in Egypt's Arabian-Nubian Shield, approximately 200 km north of Centamin's world-class Sukari gold mine. Aton has identified numerous gold and base metal exploration targets at Abu Marawat, including the Hamama deposit in the west, the Abu Marawat deposit in the northeast, and the Rodruin deposit in the south of the Concession. Two historic British gold mines are also located on the Concession at Semna and Sir Bakis. Aton has identified several distinct geological trends within Abu Marawat, which display potential for the development of a variety of styles of precious and base metal mineralisation. The Abu Marawat exploitation lease is 57.66 km2 in size, covering the Hamama West and Rodruin mineral deposits, and was established In January 2024 and is valid for an initial period of 20 years. The Concession also includes an additional 255.0 km2 of exploration areas at Abu Marawat, retained for a further period of 4 years from January 2024. Abu Marawat is located in an area of excellent infrastructure; a four-lane highway, a 220kV power line, and a water pipeline are in close proximity, as are the international airports at Hurghada and Luxor.For further information regarding Aton Resources Inc., please visit us at www.atonresources.com or contact:TONNO VAHKChief Executive Officer Tel: +1 604 318 0390 Email: info@ atonresources.com SOURCE: Aton Resources, Inc.
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Family-owned spirits company offers young people opportunity to build a career in bartendingHAMILTON, BERMUDA / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Family-owned spirits company, Bacardi is today launching Shake Your Future in five cities across Italy. The initiative, which this year is offering 40 young people the life-changing opportunity to start a career in the world of mixology, will take place in the city of Genoa for the first time ever - as well as Milan, Rome, Turin and Naples.Now in its fourth year in Italy, the Shake Your Future program begins with a four-week training course to acquire the skills necessary for a career in bartending, which is followed by a four-week internship, when the students can gain their first valuable experience in a respected local bar, which is a partner of Bacardi. Graduates receive an internationally recognized diploma and access to permanent employment opportunities in the industry, empowering them to transform their lives and build a brighter future."Every single person who walks into a bar should enjoy an unforgettable experience. Shake Your Future will give these young people the skills they need to deliver that experience and the skills that our bar partners are desperately looking for. I am proud that over the last three years, we have changed the lives of more than 100 students in Italy thanks to Shake Your Future," comments Massimo Barboni, Country Manager for Bacardi in Italy.Shake Your Future is helping to meet the hospitality industry's urgent need for professionally trained bartenders. To ensure each student gains all the required skills Bacardi is collaborating with renowned bartender schools across the country including: Mixology Academy, in Rome and Milan, Sweet & Sour of Turin, the Flair Bartender's School of Naples and the Timossi Academy of Genoa.The 2024 program includes a fantastic prize. The students will work on their own personal twist on the classic Americano cocktail, one of which will be selected by Shake Your Future mentor, Alexander Frezza, to be included on the official drink list of the bar he co-founded, L'Antiquario di Napoli, one of the World's 50 Best Bars."When I stepped behind the bar for the first time, I could never have imagined it would lead to where I am today," said Alex Frezza. "This industry opens up a world of possibilities and through Shake Your Future, Bacardi is opening up that world to these students. I am excited to be here at the start of their journey and to help them achieve their dreams." Bacardi invests in Good Spirited ESG initiatives that set goals for a brighter future for all, focusing on doing the right thing by its consumers, employees, business partners, the communities where it operates, and the environment. Find out more at www.bacardilimited.com/good-spirited -ENDS-Media enquiries:Andrew Carney, Communications Director Europe, acarney@ bacardi.com Jessica Merz, VP Global Corporate Communications, jmerz@ bacardi.com Always drink responsibly.About BacardiBacardi Limited, the largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDI rum, PATRON tequila, GREY GOOSE vodka, DEWAR'S Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, MARTINI vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON'S Scotch whisky, ST-GERMAIN elderflower liqueur and ERISTOFF vodka. Founded more than 161 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs approximately 9,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 countries. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and X.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bacardi Limited on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: Bacardi LimitedWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bacardi-limited Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Bacardi Limited
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Douglas J. McNamara named to five-person MDL team addressing largest data breach in 2023WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / The Honorable Allison D. Burroughs of the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts appointed Douglas J. McNamara, head of Cohen Milstein's Data Breach & Cybersecurity Litigation team, as one of five co-leads, to oversee In Re: MOVEit Customer Data Security Breach Litigation. The multidistrict litigation (MDL) involves dozens of class actions from around the country regarding a massive data breach which impacted more than 2,500 organizations and more than 67 million individuals worldwide.The data breach, which was discovered in May 2023, was linked to Progress Software Corp.'s file-sharing software, MOVEit Transfer, which is used by thousands of organizations around the world to move large amounts of often-sensitive data over the internet. Allegedly starting as early as 2021, a ransomware group known as Clop (aka C10p) hacked the MOVEit servers, stealing customers' sensitive data stored within. Affected entities include hospitals, banks, businesses, governments, pension funds, universities, among others.Plaintiffs in the MDL accuse Progress of failing to reasonably secure consumers' personal information."I'm incredibly honored by Judge Burrough's appointment. She chose among many strong contenders and selected some fantastic litigators to represent the impacted consumers and plaintiffs," said Doug McNamara, head of Cohen Milstein's Data Breach & Cybersecurity Litigation team.McNamara, widely recognized for his class action expertise in data breach and false advertising litigation, will oversee offensive discovery strategy in the MOVEit MDL.McNamara currently serves as co-lead interim class counsel inIn re MGM Resorts International Data Breach Litigation. He is also on the steering committee and leadership teams ofIn re Blackbaud, Inc., Customer Data Breach LitigationandIn re Marriott International Inc. Customer Data Security Breach Litigation .The five-member court-appointed leadership team also includes the law firms of Levin Sedran & Berman LLP; Lockridge Grindal Nauen PLLP; Lynch Carpenter, LLP; Berger Montague; and liaison counsel from Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP.###About Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLCCohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC, a premier U.S. plaintiffs' law firm, with over 100 attorneys across eight offices, champions the causes of real people - workers, consumers, small business owners, investors, and whistleblowers - working to deliver corporate reforms and fair markets for the common good. For more information visit https://www.cohenmilstein.com/ Press Contact:cohenmilstein@ berlinrosen.com SOURCE: Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC
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DUBLIN, OH / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Cyber insurance coverage is getting more difficult to attain and premiums are increasing substantially. In response, Dark Rhiino Security, Inc. and Liberty Insurance Agency, an industry-leading Insurance Broker, have partnered in a move to simplify the cyber insurance application and approval process and lower premiums for mid-market organizations.Dark Rhiino Security Logo Dark Rhiino Security's logo. A rhino with a green background and the words "Dark Rhiino Security. Cybersecurity. Insured!" written underneath.By countering this trend, Dark Rhiino Security is leveraging the strength of its "Defense-in-Depth" offering as a "benchmark for insurers to be able to provide expedited approvals and more cost-effective cyber insurance for our customers," says CEO Kevin Casey. Dark Rhiino Security asserts that the partnership will help its small- and mid-sized business customers improve their security posture and decrease business risk - touting premium savings of up to 30%.Cyber Insurance at ScaleThrough Dark Rhiino Security's Insurance+ Program, businesses will achieve cybersecurity aligned with DHS's [Department of Homeland Security] advanced directive for Defense-in-Depth. Dark Rhiino Security's approach is composed of 11 layers containing processes, technologies, and controls, which materially reduce exposure. Cyber insurance underwriters, according to Dark Rhiino Security, consider these controls to be critical in protecting against ransomware and other cybersecurity incidents. Dark Rhiino Security is backing its fully managed Defense-in-Depth offering with its own insured guarantee to subscribers of Defense-in-Depth. The promise of payment from the guarantee fulfills and increases the deductible on the primary Cyber Insurance Policy from Chubb, lowering premiums.The company's CEO, Kevin Casey, explained the advantages of the partnership with Liberty Insurance Agency:"When you have great security, why isn't that recognized by the insurance industry? We want to connect the two and solve the broader risk challenge for organizations. It's simple, keep customers protected with our DEFENSE IN DEPTH, and reward that effort with easy and cost-effective cyber insurance." "Dark Rhiino Security and Liberty Insurance Agency's partnership is a game changer for organizations who must strengthen their security posture. We're excited to deliver much-needed peace of mind by helping these small- and mid-sized organizations receive the best terms, conditions, and pricing the Insurance Marketplace has to offer," says Kevin Heher, President, Liberty Insurance Agency.Contact InformationEmily AnicioDigital Marketingmedia@ darkrhiinosecurity.com SOURCE: Dark Rhiino SecurityView the original press release on newswire.com
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Dollar General Corporation ("Dollar General" or "the Company") (NYSE:DG) and certain of its officers.Class Definition:This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Dollar General securities between May 28, 2020 and August 30, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/dg Case Details:The Complaint alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Dollar General stores were chronically understaffed and suffering from logistical and inventory management problems which left stores with tens of millions of dollars' worth of outdated and unwanted inventory, mispriced goods, and lost and damaged items; (ii) large backlogs of unsellable merchandise had built up at Dollar General's stores, which inventory had not been timely written down due to understaffing and Dollar General's failure to manage its inventory; (iii) the allotment of employee hours per store per week imposed by Dollar General management placed employees in virtually impossible situations where assigned tasks, including those necessary to effective store operations, could not be completed within the allotted time; (iv) Dollar General was systematically overcharging customers for items upon checkout above the listed price in violation of state laws, including state law violations identified by state regulators in Arizona, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, and Ohio; (v) Dollar General's reported revenue and earnings during the Class Period were artificially inflated by defendants' over-pricing scheme; (vi) Dollar General's failure to manage store inventories and accurately price items upon checkout risked the loss of customers, lower sales, adverse regulatory actions, and reputational fallout; and (vii) Dollar General was not on track to achieve its guidance during the Class Period and such guidance lacked a reasonable factual basis.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/dg or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Dollar General you have until January 26, 2024, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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SANTA FE, NM / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 /Double DD Ranch, located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a new 27-acre event venue created by celebrated TV writer/producer Maxine Lapiduss and her spouse, bestselling author and visual artist, Hillary Carlip.Double DD Ranch Guests enjoy s'mores around the fire pitAfter decades on the career treadmill in Los Angeles, and a series of retina surgeries that left Maxine blind in one eye, she began to "see" life very differently. The former standup claimed, "I always wanted to be like the great entertainer, Sammy Davis Jr. I guess I should have been more specific." The duo reevaluated their priorities and decided to focus on beauty, joy, and wellness. All roads, and Southwest Airlines, led to Santa Fe, and the Double DD Ranch at the foot of scenic Lone Butte. Once part of Eaves Movie Ranch, with its sweeping views and endless vistas, it's no wonder classic westerns were filmed there. Maxine and Hillary have spent the last year and a half transforming their rustic ranch into a modern destination for creative retreats, special events, and unique pop-ups.Their creative writing retreats kick off on March 22 with celebrated bestselling author of over 30 books Francesca Lia Block. The retreat is open to writers of all levels.On April 20, Lapiduss and Carlip will host their own writing workshop, Putting the ME in Memoir, followed in May with a songwriters retreat in association with the Willis Wonderland Foundation."We are excited to introduce the community to our circle of amazing artists and teachers," Carlip said, "as well as bring our own energy and creativity to others through gatherings at our magical property." ###About Double DD Ranch: Double DD Ranch is a unique retreat and event venue located on 27 acres in the Lone Butte neighborhood-just south of Santa Fe. Double DD lodging accommodates up to 12 guests in both the main and newly renovated bunk house. Up to 40 more guests can be housed onsite, in elegant yet rustic glamping tents.The ranch is available for single or multi-day events and its one-acre fenced pasture/arena can accommodate indoor/outdoor events like concerts, film series and festivals. Booking for the 2024 season is now underway.For complete information visit: ddranchevents.com Instagram: @ddrancheventsContact InformationAudrey RubinsteinPublicistaudrey@ themettaagency.com 505-490-5029SOURCE: Double DD RanchView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-22 08:00:41

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ECO (ATLANTIC) OIL & GAS LTD.("Eco," "Eco Atlantic," "Company," or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"Government Approval for 6.25% Farm Out of Block 3B/4B to Africa Oil, Guyana Operational Update, and Appointment of Non-Executive DirectorTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (AIM:ECO)(TSXV:EOG), the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Azinam Limited ("Azinam"), has received final government approval for the farm out of its 6.25% Participating Interest in Block 3B/4B to Africa Oil Corp. ("Africa Oil") announced on 11 July 2023 (the "Transaction"). The Company also provides an operational update on entering next license phase for Orinduik block and confirms, further to its announcement of 2 January 2024, that Dr Oliver Quinn has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect.Final Transaction ApprovalThe South Africa Department of Mineral Resources and Energy ("DMRE") and the Petroleum Agency South Africa ("PASA") have now provided Section 11 approval to assign and transfer a 6.25% Participating Interest in Block 3B/4B, offshore South Africa to Africa Oil SA Corp, a wholly owned subsidiary of Africa Oil. The Section 11 approval was the final consent required in order to complete the Transaction, and accordingly all requisite regulatory approvals and deeds in respect of the Transaction have now been signed and completed.As per the terms of the Assignment and Transfer Agreement with Africa Oil (the "Agreement"), Eco has received further payment of US$2.5m from Africa Oil. Under the terms of the Agreement, upon a further farm out to a third party into Block 3B/4B Eco will receive a further payment of US$4m from Africa Oil and when the first well is spud an additional US$1.5m, will be due to the Company from Africa Oil.Orinduik License Operational UpdateAs Operator, Eco Orinduik BV, gave notice to the Minister of Natural Resources of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana ("MNR") to enter the Second Phase of the Second Renewal Period of the Orinduik License effective as of 14 January 2024. This Second Phase has a commitment to drill one exploration well to the Cretaceous formation during the remainder of the license period which ends on 13 January 2026. Further, Eco advised MNR last week that TOQAP Guyana B.V (the SPV joint entity held by TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy 60:40) has relinquished their 25% WI for strategic reasons and will not participate in the next phase, the former TOQAP Guyana B.V 25% WI will be assigned to Eco Guyana. Subject to the requisite government notifications, Eco will remain the Operator holding 40% WI in Orinduik License as Eco Guyana and 60% WI as Eco Orinduik BV.Non-Executive Director AppointmentOn 2 January 2024, the Company announced that Dr Oliver Quinn had been elected as a Director of the Company subject to completion of the due diligence by Strand Hanson, the Company's Nominated Adviser, in accordance with the AIM Rules for Companies and Nominated Advisers. The Company is pleased to confirm that the aforementioned process has now been completed and Dr Oliver Quinn has been appointed to Eco's Board with immediate effect as the nominee Director of Africa Oil, which holds 14.84% of the Company's issued share capital.Dr Quinn was appointed as the Chief Commercial Officer of Africa Oil in September 2023, having previously been employed as Senior Vice President, Corporate Development at Kosmos Energy Ltd. Dr Quinn started his career at Shell and has 19 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry. He is a graduate of the University of Manchester, where he studied for a BSc (Hons), Environmental & Resource Geology, and a graduate of the University of Edinburgh where he completed a PhD in Petroleum Science. While Dr Quinn replaces Keith Hill as Africa Oil's board nominee, the Board is pleased to confirm that Mr Hill has agreed to remain as a Non-Executive Director of the Company.Gil Holzman, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:"I am delighted to welcome Oliver to our Board. His extensive technical and commercial experience are an excellent addition for our Company entering into 2024 which is lining up to be a transitional year for the Company." "With respect to Block 3B/4B, we are pleased to have received final approval from the South African Government for our transaction with Africa Oil, which now paves the way to completing a further farm out in respect of the Block and the drilling of our identified targets of up to five wells." Colin Kinley, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:"Knowing the material value and potential of Orinduik Block, Eco acquired Tullow's 60% WI and has remained focused on drilling a massive, stacked pay interval in the Southeastern quadrant of the block. Eco Atlantic now approved Operator intends to bring in new partners and to drill the significant potential of the Cretaceous interval on the Guyana oil fairway. With this well commitment, we now move into planning and engineering preparations to drill in next 12-18 months.We feel extremely positive about the future of the Orinduik block, receiving significant interest from key industry partners and IOCs in our recently commenced farm out process. We will provide further updates to shareholders on operational and farm out progress throughout the year. Eco is grateful to the Government of Guyana and specifically the MNR for their collaborative efforts and support in enabling Eco to now progress towards drilling." **ENDS**For more information, please visit www.ecooilandgas.com or contact the following:Eco Atlantic Oil and Gasc/o Celicourt +44 (0) 20 8434 2754Gil Holzman, CEOColin Kinley, COOAlice Carroll, Head of Corporate SustainabilityStrand Hanson (Financial & Nominated Adviser)+44 (0) 20 7409 3494James HarrisJames BellmanBerenberg (Broker)+44 (0) 20 3207 7800Matthew ArmittDetlir EleziEchelon Capital (Financial Adviser N. America Markets)Ryan Mooney Simon Akit+1 (403) 606 4852+1 (416) 8497776Celicourt (PR)+44 (0) 20 7770 6424Mark AntelmeJimmy LeaAIM Rules for Companies, Schedule 2(g) DisclosuresThe following additional information is provided in accordance with paragraph (g) of Schedule Two of the AIM Rules for Companies.Dr Oliver Francis Quinn (aged 45)Current DirectorshipsPast Directorships (in the last five years)Mater Christi Multi-Academy TrustJadestone Energy (PHT GP) LmitedMedco Energi Thailand (Bualuang) LimitedMedco Energi Thailand (E&P) LimitedOphir Indonesia (Kofia
PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-22 18:45:30

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GridUp will forecast energy and power demand from electric vehicles, enabling utilities and regulators to proactively prepare the grid for the growth in EVs.NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / FedEx Corporation By Caitlin Odom, RMI Senior Associate, Carbon-Free ElectricityThe Electrification 101 series explores the challenges and opportunities that a rapidly electrifying transportation sector presents for the power grid, offering solutions to support proactive grid planning for oncoming EV charging needs. Read the first article in the series here.January 22, 2024 /3BL/ - Over the past 30 years, US electricity demand has remained relatively flat - generally, new end uses (adding load) and improved efficiency (reducing load) have roughly canceled each other out. But with electric vehicles and other end uses emerging, more demand is coming.American drivers are rapidly choosing to go electric. Despite some misleading headlines, automakers have sold more EVs every quarter since 2021, and that growth is likely to continue. Individual buyers and corporate and government fleets purchases - enabled by supportive policy, regulation, and incentives - have driven new sales of EVs to a tipping point. By 2030, we expect to see fully electrified fleets and, by 2035, EVs comprising 100 percent of vehicles sales in some states.Understandably, we have not built today's US electric grid to rapidly replace the fossil fuel-based vehicle fueling infrastructure. However, with continued exponential growth in electric vehicle ownership and use, doing so has become increasingly urgent. Unfortunately, though, to plan for the grid of tomorrow, today's grid planning processes must change from reactive to proactive to ensure that the grid is ready when the vehicles arrive. To enable this, utility engineers and regulators need access to better modeling and data of anticipated load from vehicle electrification. This will help them to accurately plan and build infrastructure to serve this load in a timely manner while simultaneously minimizing any cost to electricity users.Updating How Utilities and Regulators PlanToday, utilities propose, and regulators approve, grid investments reactively. Utilities only propose projects when customers (e.g., a new subdivision or a new factory) have committed to new demand. Regulators defined this reactive process because it helped control costs in a world where demand was flat or only slowly increasing and where new demands came online with a long timeline (it takes years to build a new subdivision or a new factory). However, EV loads will come quickly, often as a response to policy mandates, meaning grid planning needs to be done in anticipation of this new load. For example, logistics companies can commission new truck fleets and charging hubs in a matter of months but, if the paradigm of reactive planning remains, will likely need to wait years to connect to the grid.Today's infrastructure planning process evolved out of the need for regulators to have reasonable oversight of utility capital expenditure investments. To prevent utilities from overbuilding infrastructure, and overcharging customers, regulators often try to reduce the amount of investment the utilities can rate-base and profit from. Regulators want to be as certain as possible that investment in building new grid infrastructure will promptly result in new customers and load on the system. This process aims to ensure ratepayers don't experience unnecessary shocks in rate costs and that utilities are making least-cost investment decisions and not overbuilding the grid in pursuit of risk-free profit. To shift out of today's planning paradigm into a process that can more proactively prepare our grid for rapid load growth from electrification, regulators and utilities need a new method of being confident that new grid infrastructure for electrification will be utilized.Enter GridUpUsing existing data on vehicle stock, driving patterns, and charging behaviors, we can model the anticipated power and energy demand from different EV market penetration scenarios. RMI's forthcoming GridUp tool will do exactly this. By providing geographically granular energy and power data to utilities and regulators, GridUp will enable these stakeholders to assess when and where the grid will need upgrades. This sort of modeled future planning is not new to many utilities' planning processes. Utilities that own generation assets, also known as vertically integrated utilities, plan generation infrastructure a decade or more in advance using integrated resource plans (IRPs) that regulators review. GridUp intends to apply an approach to enable investments in assets to meet demand similar to how IRPs plan for supply. Through the use of the public data in the GridUp tool, both utilities and regulators can assess forthcoming grid needs and begin planning infrastructure to meet that load in anticipation of rapid transportation electrification.Not only will GridUp allow utilities and regulators to see what power and energy demand will look when all electrifiable vehicles go electric, but the tool will also provide data on the evolution of the expected power and energy demand from vehicles over the next two decades. Users will be able to explore implications on load from deployment of different charger types and in different economic scenarios. This improvement in load forecasting data will allow utilities to propose justifiable infrastructure projects to prepare for vehicle electrification and will allow regulators to review such proposed plans for prudency given the expected changes in load. Senate Bill 410, signed into California law this past October, enables utilities in the state to use this more proactive planning process for grid planning in an effort to prevent the grid from slowing down implementation of California's decarbonization agenda.Shifting utility infrastructure planning processes from reactive to proactive will not happen without resources and tools to ensure that regulators can carry out their duty to protect ratepayers from unnecessary increases in the cost of electricity. Utility regulators are tasked with ensuring these natural monopolies, utilities, are not abusing their lack of market competition to exploit customers. Equipping these regulators and policymakers with technical modeling and resources to pressure test proposed grid upgrades for vehicle electrification will ensure expedited grid planning to serve increasing loads from decarbonization does not lead to rate increases to consumers.The GridUp tool and Electrification 101 article series are supported by a generous grant from FedEx.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from FedEx Corporation on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info: Spokesperson: FedEx Corporation
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / EOS INC. is a resourceful service provider that integrates leading biotechnology and products from around the world. They are committed to developing products in different fields around the world to provide consumers with new experiences and extra added value in purchasing products and consuming and adding value to them.On December 8, 2023, Eos Inc. and ZHONGKEZHONGLUAN (Guangdong) Holdings (Group) Limited hosted a signing ceremony in Shenzhen, China, opening a new era of cooperation between capital economy and regenerative medicine.Since its establishment in 2022, ZHONGKEZHONGLUAN has been committed to the research and development and transformation of cutting-edge biomedical technologies. With more than 3,700 world-leading core technologies, ZHONGKEZHONGLUAN is at the forefront of regenerative medicine and biotechnology. Relying on the Group's strong technological strength, ZHONGKEZHONGLUAN biotechnology has shown great potential for development.The collaboration will fully combine the resource strengths of both parties in the fields of biotechnology, regenerative medicine and capital economy to jointly empower each other's business development and realize a win-win situation. Both parties will work closely together in the future to utilize innovative business models and biotechnology to achieve their strategic development goals.Both parties will fully utilize their respective advantages in technology, market and talents to jointly develop cooperation in industrial transformation and upgrading, etc. Both parties hope that through exchanges and cooperation, they will continue to enhance each other's competitiveness and core strengths.They believe that through the close cooperation between the two sides, new vitality will be injected into the human health business and regenerative medicine.For more information on EOS, Inc. please visit the website: https://eosinc999.us/ Media Contact:Contact Person: Justin ChiaCompany name: EOS INC.Phone: 886-2-2586-8300Email: eosinc@ eosinc999.com Website: eosinc999.us SOURCE: EOS INC.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-22 04:58:56

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The global pegfilgrastim biosimilar market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar market. This includes the increasing demand for pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 Pegfilgrastim Biosimilar market are as follows: Biocon, Coherus BioSciences, Dr Reddyas Laboratories, Intas Pharmaceuticals, Mundipharma International, Mylan, Novartis, PfizerBy 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: Chemotherapy Treatment, TransplantationApplication: Hospital Pharmacies, Mail-Order Pharmacies, Retail PharmaciesIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar 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 pegfilgrastim biosimilar market.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The presidential election in Azerbaijan is a favorable democratic opportunity created by the state to show the public authority level of the parties, MP Musa Gasimli told Azerbaijan's Central Election Commission (CEC), Trend reports.

The MP noted that election enables to find out the internal capabilities of parties, their organizational structure, their shortcomings, and to study and improve the electoral practice.

"The scheduling of extraordinary presidential election in Azerbaijan was justified by historical necessity. Since adoption of the Constitutional Act on the State Independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan on October 18, 1991 until the present moment, election will take place throughout the entire territory of the country for the first time," said Gasimli.

He emphasized that the sovereignty of the Azerbaijan Republic is fully established throughout the country, and the national flag of Azerbaijan is raised in every settlement.

"This has created a completely new historical reality in Azerbaijan. A new period has begun in the country's life. Displaced persons are gradually returning to their homeland. The new reality has created the need for extraordinary presidential election," added the MP.

On December 7, 2023, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on holding an extraordinary presidential election in the country on February 7, 2024.

The CEC on December 19 approved the candidacy of Ilham Aliyev, nominated by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP), for participation in the extraordinary presidential election.

Azerbaijan has registered seven candidates to run in the extraordinary presidential election.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-22 09:40:28

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FRANKFURT-INNENSTADT II, GERMANY / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 /IWG Finance AG plans to propel the global expansion of the real-time telemedicine platform, Doctors365, with its highest single investment in the millions. Currently available in German and 11 other languages, the healthcare portal has garnered enthusiasm from Claire Summerfield, a board member of IWG Finance AG, who highlights the team's excitement for Doctors365 : "We see significant potential in this company. Our investment aims to revolutionize Doctors365 and establish it as a permanent industry leader." With an enthusiastic team dedicated to the cause, Doctors365 has won over a generation of customers in Europe for its telemedicine platform. Setting itself apart with a simple, humane, and user-friendly experience, the platform distinguishes itself from traditional doctor visits."The Swiss company has successfully developed a groundbreaking range of services for both patients and the healthcare sector, complementing our own offerings sensibly. We are thrilled to be part of this pioneering journey," says Claire Summerfield, Chairperson of the Board at IWG AG.Dr. Lejla Karahodza, founder of Doctors365 and a highly qualified specialist from Switzerland with extensive experience, is dedicated to advancing the project. Besides overseeing multiple practices, she also directs a Medical Expertise Institute. A graduate of renowned medical institutions, she brings her professional expertise and vision for modern healthcare to the project. Dr. Karahodza has made a name for herself in the Swiss healthcare landscape, with comprehensive experience in various medical disciplines. Alongside her practice, she passionately advocates for the promotion of medical research and development.Since its launch six months ago, over 450 specialist doctors have registered on the platform, aiming for hundreds of millions of registered patients worldwide in the medium term. Doctors365 is the world's leading provider of telemedicine, a multilingual real-time medical online platform accessible globally to individuals and businesses alike. The platform offers video appointments with certified doctors and psychologists, anytime and anywhere, designed for use on mobile devices.With over 450 doctors and availability in 11 languages, Doctors365's 24/7 primary care service provides free medical advice without monthly fees or subscriptions.The ambitious outlook of the Zurich-based startup outlines a bold vision for the future. The founders of Doctors365 not only rely on past successes but aim for significant expansion by 2024, focusing on attracting additional investors to acquire funding of up to 500 million. These ambitious financing plans serve as a guidepost for the extensive scaling of their telemedicine platform.Doctors365's AI-powered technology compares symptoms and connects patients with hundreds of doctors holding specialized titles. The platform, launched under the guidance of experienced German educators, aims to offer fast and competent medical services.The Doctors365 application, available on the App Store and Google Play even before the official launch, has been valued at an impressive 20 million.Based in Frankfurt am Main, IWG Finance AG is part of the International Wealth Group headquartered in Cyprus . The globally operating investment firm specializes in the brokerage of investment funds and assets, regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) . The CySEC, known for its strict supervision and regulation of financial service providers, enhances the credibility of IWG Finance AG Germany , providing a solid legal foundation for the brokerage of investment funds and assets across almost all of Europe.SOURCE: IWG Finance AG
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The innovative DIY brand introduces its latest members in the heat press family, LOKLiK ImPressTM Hat and LOKLiK ImPressTM Auto 2, at CES 2024 from Jan 9th-12th in Las Vegas.SACRAMENTO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 /LOKLiK, a game changer redefining the development of handicraft machines, commanded attention at CES 2024 with its new generations of heat press machines, LOKLiK ImPressTM Hat and LOKLiK ImPressTM Auto 2, alongside its sister brand, HTVRONT in Venetian Expo Hall, Las Vegas. The booth number was 50571.These heat presses demonstrate an aggressive increase in creative productivity and user-friendly intelligence. Armed with the premium handicraft materials from its sister brand, HTVRONT, LOKLiK earned great recognition from industrial insiders, craft enthusiasts, and influencers at the world-leading tech event.Born as the first generation of LOKLiK's hat heat press, LOKLiK ImPressTM Hat is designed to massively inspire every crafter's imagination and creative realm while delivering an intuitive and controllable crafting experience. Features a real-time digital screen, integrating flexible heat settings designed carefully to align with ergonomic concepts; LOKLiK ImPressTM Hat empowers craft enthusiasts with foolproof hat creations out of accuracy.With a multifunctional storage design and a matched semi-spherical ironing mat of great heat resistance, this heat press machine substantially enhances storage convenience and consistent heating performance, perfectly fitting a diversity of hat and cap blanks. It's said that the LOKLiK ImPressTM Hat will be released in March.LOKLiK ImPressTM Auto 2 was given birth by LOKLiK's brand philosophy, endowing craft lovers with the ability and eagerness to self-express and share via easy-to-use and creative products. Based on the first generation of the LOKLiK automatic heat press - this machine has already won 41.84% market share from the launch day, LOKLiK ImPressTM Auto 2 adopts a more vanguard technology to realize pressure adjustment feature and a flipped touch screen for customized setups. The CES attendees performed excitement towards its launch in the middle of 2024 as the second generation seems to meet their current demands for heat presses further."We have always been on the journey of developing more advanced DIY machines and products. What we are striving for here is the increasing happiness and joy of crafters worldwide," said Herman, the CEO of LOKLiK and HTVRONT, "These new heat press products being introduced today have been through what we called hard and long road over the last year. We're delighted that they finally showed their appearance at CES 2024, and there will be more intelligent machines in the upcoming year." Daisy Multifacetica, a famous YouTuber in the DIY industry with over 3,00,000 followers, commented that LOKLiK is a genuinely innovative brand seeking non-stop development by actively interacting with consumers and industrial professionals, delving deeply into their innate calls. Like many other influencers at the event, Daisy showed her strong support and will towards these new machines.For more information, please visit: https://www.loklik.com For regular updates on LOKLIK, follow us on: https://www.facebook.com/LoklikOfficial Contact InformationKimberly XiongBrand PRkimberly@ loklik.com +8619542807347SOURCE: LOKLiKView the original press release on newswire.com
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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Lahontan Gold Corp (TSXV:LG)(OTCQB:LGCXF) (the "Company" or "Lahontan"), is pleased to announce the results of a review of metallurgical data for its 26.4 km2 flagship Santa Fe Mine project. The data review was completed by Kappes, Cassiday and Associates ("KCA") of Reno, Nevada, a global leader in metallurgical and process consulting. KCA reviewed metallurgical test work on oxide gold and silver mineralization completed by previous operators of the Santa Fe Mine as well as production data. Gold and silver recovery estimates were primarily based upon prior metallurgical test work for the Santa Fe Mine as described below. When recovery estimates of the individual deposits are applied to the Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") shown in the Santa Fe Mine Technical Report*, it results in weighted project-wide gold recoveries of 74.4% for gold and 29.0% for silver at a -inch crush size from oxide mineralization.Recovery estimates were primarily based upon prior metallurgical test work from the Project. This review included considerations from the following quantity of bottle roll and column leach tests:Bottle Roll TestsColumn TestsSanta Fe3225Slab30Calvada East45York15It is typical to apply lab-to-field recovery discounts as a scale up factor when projecting commercial heap leach performance. This is generally a 2% to 5% deduction on the recovery, depending on the amount of available information. For the estimate, a 3% gold recovery deduction was applied to Santa Fe and 5% gold recovery deductions were applied to the other deposits. Five percent silver recovery deductions were applied to all the deposits.Based on the review and applied discounts, the recovery estimates for oxide mineralization are as follows:AuAgSanta Fe79%30%Slab50%20%Calvada East71%13%York60%0%When recovery estimates of the individual deposits are applied to the Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") shown in the Santa Fe Project Technical Report*, it results in weighted project-wide gold recoveries from oxide mineralization of 74.4% for gold and 29.0% for silver at a -inch crush size. Preliminary review of the data indicates little benefit to recovery from crushing finer than this.The data reviewed included the results of a 1,860-ton crushed and agglomerated test heap of Santa Fe pit oxide mineralization. The heap was agglomerated with 5.5 kg/t cement addition yielding a 73.8% overall gold recovery, and 80.3% gold recovery on the flat surfaces for the " crushed test heap.Operational data review indicates a total crushed oxide mineralization recovery of 65.5% over the life of the mine from 1988 to 1995. However, crush size seemed to vary throughout the life of the operation, ranging from 1-1/2 inches down to 5/8 inches towards the later stages of the mining operation. Consistent crushing at -inch should improve precious metal recoveries.Reagent consumption estimates were primarily based upon bottle roll information and are as follows:CyanideLimekg/tkg/tSanta Fe0.37 2.91.5Calvada East0.33 5.56.7KCA believes that there is sufficient data available to establish recovery ranges of oxide gold and silver mineralization for inclusion in a Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA"). This is a result of previous operational data, and the amount of column leach testing available on the component that makes up the bulk of the resource (the Santa Fe pit resource).In order to reduce risk for the Project, KCA recommends that two more agglomerated column tests on each of Slab and Calvada East oxide mineralization at " crush size be performed to confirm gold and silver recoveries for these areas where recovery data is sparse. KCA also recommends development of preg-robbing indices for the various types of mineralization in order to better understand metallurgical risks of the Project.Kimberly Ann, Lahontan Founder, CEO, President, and Director commented: "Lahontan truly appreciates the data review completed by KCA for the Santa Fe Mine Project. The conclusion by KCA that the existing Santa Fe metallurgical data is sufficient in quantity and detail to use for our planned PEA this year greatly benefits the Company and will help streamline the PEA process. The high heap leach oxide gold and silver recoveries estimated by KCA project-wide underscore the economic potential of restarting mining operations at Santa Fe".About Lahontan Gold Corp.Lahontan Gold Corp. is a fully financed Canadian mine development and mineral exploration company that holds, through its US subsidiaries, four top-tier gold and silver exploration properties in the Walker Lane of mining friendly Nevada. Lahontan's flagship property, the 26.4 km2 Santa Fe Mine, had past production of 345,000 ounces of gold and 711,000 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing (Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1995). The Santa Fe Mine has a Canadian National Instrument 43-101 compliant Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,112,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.14 g/t Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 544,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.00 g/t Au Eq), all pit constrained (Au Eq is inclusive of recovery, please see Santa Fe Project Technical Report*). The Company will continue to aggressively explore Santa Fe during 2024 and begin the process of evaluating development scenarios to bring the Santa Fe Mine back into production. Anthony Gesualdo, CPG, Consulting Geologist to Lahontan Gold Corp., is the Qualified Person for the Company and approved the technical content of this news release. For more information, please visit our website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com * Please see the Santa Fe Project Technical Report, Authors: Trevor Rabb and Darcy Baker, P. Geos. Effective Date: December 7, 2022, Report Date: March 2, 2023. The Technical Report is available on the Company's website and SEDAR.On behalf of the Board of DirectorsKimberly AnnFounder, CEO, President, and DirectorFOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:Lahontan Gold Corp.Kimberly AnnFounder, Chief Executive Officer, President, DirectorPhone: 1-530-414-4400Email: Kimberly.ann@lahontangoldcorp.com Website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable secur
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Logan Finance Corporation is proud to announce the addition of Paul Jones Joins as Senior Vice President, Business Development.DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Logan Finance Corporation is proud to announce the addition of Paul Jones, Senior Vice President, Business Development. As a recognized asset in the Non-QM world, Paul's brand and influence will immediately benefit the development of the sales team and Logan's continuing growth and expansion."Logan is experiencing incredible growth, and Paul will help us continue this trajectory," said Logan Chief Revenue Officer Aaron Samples. "Paul is an industry giant with an uncanny ability to identify and develop winning strategies and educate the industry on the benefits and opportunities within Non-QM. We're thrilled to have Paul join the team." Paul Jones is an industry veteran with nearly 30 years of experience in Operations and Sales. The last seven years have been exclusively dedicated to the Non-QM market, focused on education, product development, investor relations, internal and external strategic initiatives, and dynamic marketing efforts. Paul enjoys parlaying these pieces into a cohesive strategy for Account Executives and Originators to scale their Non-QM production via new referral sources and customer outreach."I couldn't be happier to join Logan Finance and work alongside this stellar management team. The spotlight is on the world of Non-QM right now, and I'm ready to help focus that spotlight on Logan," Paul said. "We have a lot of things in play for 2024, and I'm looking forward to contributing to Logan's exciting future." About Logan FinanceLogan Finance Corporation (NMLS# 127722) is a national wholesale, non-delegated correspondent, and commercial Non-QM mortgage lender providing premium lending services to the TPO industry. Logan's unparalleled service - coupled with high quality, experienced staff, the best technology, loan products, and training - helps make Non-QM easy and provides our partners with the highest confidence in our delivery and in our ability to help grow their client base. For more information about Logan Finance Corporation, please visit LoganFinance.com LoganWholesale.com , and/or LoganCorrespondent.com Contact InformationJim McDonaldMarketingjimhmcdonald@ gmail.com 2145971301SOURCE: Logan Finance CorporationView the original press release on newswire.com
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FAYETTEVILLE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / In a groundbreaking initiative to nurture the future leaders of healthcare, Dr. Hari Saini, an esteemed interventional cardiologist, proudly introduces the Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship for Physician Assistants. This one-time $1,000 scholarship aims to recognize and support exceptional individuals pursuing a master's degree or certificate program in physician assistant studies.Shaping Tomorrow's Healthcare LeadersThe Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship for Physician Assistants was founded to honor Dr. Hari Saini, whose illustrious career has not only saved lives but has also inspired a new generation of healthcare professionals. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, compassion, and patient-centered care, Dr. Saini aims to make a lasting impact on the future of healthcare through this scholarship program.Criteria for Aspiring Physician AssistantsTo be eligible for this prestigious scholarship, applicants must be accepted or currently enrolled in a master's degree or certificate program in physician assistant studies at an accredited institution in the United States. Academic excellence is paramount, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a strong passion for patient-centered care and propose innovative solutions to pressing challenges within healthcare through a thoughtfully crafted essay.Honoring Excellence and Compassion in HealthcareThe scholarship recipients will be selected based on their academic achievements, passion for patient care, community involvement, and the quality of their essay response. This scholarship stands as a testament to Dr. Saini's vision of shaping the future of healthcare by supporting talented individuals dedicated to excellence and compassion in patient care.Dr. Hari Saini: A Legacy of ExcellenceAs the person behind this prestigious scholarship, Dr. Hari Saini's legacy is deeply rooted in his commitment to patient well-being and his desire to mentor the next generation of healthcare professionals. His vision is to foster a cadre of talented physician assistants who will carry forward his legacy of delivering exceptional care.Investing in Healthcare's FutureThe Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship for Physician Assistants is more than just a financial award; it is an investment in the education of aspiring healthcare professionals who share Dr. Saini's dedication to excellence and compassion. By supporting their dreams, this scholarship program aims to create a ripple effect, positively impacting the lives of patients and communities for years to come.Apply Now and Shape Your Healthcare JourneyThe deadline to apply for the Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship for Physician Assistants is August 15, 2024. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a legacy that celebrates excellence and compassion in healthcare. The winner of the scholarship will be announced on September 15, 2024.For more information and to submit your application, visit https://drharisainischolarship.com/ About Dr. Hari SainiDr. Hari Saini, an interventional cardiologist with a rich legacy in healthcare, established this scholarship to nurture aspiring physician assistants. His commitment to patient-centered care and excellence serves as an inspiration for current and future healthcare professionals. The Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship for Physician Assistants stands as a testament to his remarkable accomplishments and vision for the future of healthcare. Apply today and join the journey towards shaping tomorrow's healthcare leaders.Contact Info:Spokesperson: Dr. Hari Saini Organization: Dr. Hari Saini ScholarshipWebsite: https://drharisainischolarship.com/ Email: apply@ drharisainischolarship.com SOURCE: Dr. Hari Saini Scholarship
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LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / January 21, 2024 / The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of The Boeing Company ("Boeing" or "the Company") (NYSE: BA) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Boeing is the subject of a Wall Street Journal article published on January 7, 2024, titled: "FAA Orders Grounding of Some Boeing 737 MAX 9 Jets After Emergency Landing." According to the Journal, "the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a temporary grounding and immediate inspections of dozens of Boeing 737 MAX Jets, after one of the planes made an emergency landing when a section of the aircraft ripped away in midair. Passengers and flight attendants described a harrowing incident during an Alaska Airlines flight on a 737 MAX 9 jet Friday night that left a gaping hole at 16,000 feet in the sky. Alaska and United, two of the biggest users of the jets, canceled dozens of flights each on Saturday but said inspections were underway." Based on this news, shares of Boeing dropped by more than 8% on the next day.If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT:The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq., www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm
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LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / SolGold (LSE:SOLG)(TSX:SOLG) is pleased to provide an update on the Company's current initiatives and ongoing activities.Scott Caldwell, SolGold's CEO and President of SolGold Ecuador, commented:" We continue to progress various initiatives, including the strategic review. Since returning to Ecuador on January 2nd, I have also had the opportunity to engage directly with government officials and local stakeholders. The commitment from all parties involved has been outstanding, and I am optimistic for the future of the Ecuadorian mining industry as a real driver for economic development. "Cascabel UpdateThe phased approach pre-feasibility study for the Company's 100% owned Cascabel Project located in northern Ecuador is nearing completion. The phased approach is expected to demonstrate a lower risk path for Cascabel, with several project optimizations expected compared to the 2022 Cascabel PFS, including lower capital costs.Exploration UpdateWe are pleased to report that our Ecuadorian exploration team has been active during January 2024, making progress at the Blanca-Nieves Project, which hosts the newly discovered La Florida target. Blanca-Nieves is located 10 km north of the Cascabel Project. Exploration activities are expected to continue over the course of 2024, focusing on advancing new target areas and prospects for new discoveries.Board UpdateFollowing the Company's annual general meeting held in December 2023, the SolGold Board has reconstituted various board committees tasked with overseeing critical aspects of our operations and strategy. The current composition of committees is as follows: Audit and Risk Committee - Dan Vujcic (Chair), Maria Amparo Alban and Steve van Barneveld Remuneration Committee - Steve van Barneveld (Chair), Dan Vujcic and Maria Amparo Alban Nominations Committee - Dan Vujcic (Chair), Scott Caldwell and Nicholas Mather Environment Social Governance Committee - Maria Ampara Alban (Chair), Steve van Barneveld and Scott CaldwellIn accordance with the Listing Rule (LR) 14.3.6 and Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule (DTR) 6.2.2, the Company confirms that a copy of all resolutions passed at the annual general meeting held on 20 December 2023 have been provided to the FCA's National Storage Mechanism.CONTACTSScott CaldwellSolGold Plc (CEO)Tel: +44 (0) 20 3807 6996Tavistock (Media)Jos Simson/Gareth TredwayTel: +44 (0) 20 7920 3150ABOUT SOLGOLDSolGold is a leading resources company focused on the discovery, definition and development of world-class copper and gold deposits and continues to strive to deliver objectives efficiently and in the interests of shareholders.The Company operates with transparency and in accordance with international best practices. SolGold is committed to delivering value to its shareholders while simultaneously providing economic and social benefits to impacted communities, fostering a healthy and safe workplace, and minimizing environmental impact.SolGold is listed on the London Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange (LSE/TSX: SOLG). Seewww.solgold.com.aufor more information. Follow us on X @SolGold_plcCAUTIONARY NOTICENews releases, presentations and public commentary made by SolGold plc (the "Company") and its Officers may contain certain statements and expressions of belief, expectation or opinion which are forward looking statements, and which relate, inter alia, to interpretations of exploration results to date and the Company's proposed strategy, plans and objectives or to the expectations or intentions of the Company's Directors, including the plan for developing the Project currently being studied as well as the expectations of the Company as to the forward price of copper. Such forward-looking and interpretative statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors beyond the control of the Company that could cause the actual performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from such interpretations and forward-looking statements.Accordingly, the reader should not rely on any interpretations or forward-looking statements, and save as required by the exchange rules of the TSX and LSE or by applicable laws, the Company does not accept any obligation to disseminate any updates or revisions to such interpretations or forward-looking statements. The Company may reinterpret results to date as the status of its assets and projects changes with time expenditure, metals prices and other affecting circumstances.This release may contain "forwardlooking information". Forwardlooking information includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the Company's plans for developing its properties. Generally, forwardlooking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved".Forwardlooking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forwardlooking information, including but not limited to: transaction risks; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future prices of mineral prices; accidents, labour disputes and shortages and other risks of the mining industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, risks relating to the ability of exploration activities (including assay results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in management's geological modelling and/or mine development plan; capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates; the prelimina
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ROCK HILL, SC / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Tax professionals, CPAs, reporting agents, 3504 Agents, and other tax preparers are extremely busy this time of year, completing numerous year-end forms for the businesses they file on behalf of. This includes payroll and employmentForms 1099 , W-2, 940, 941, 1095 and more. TaxBandits provides a comprehensive e-filing solution, allowing tax professionals to meet their client'sdeadlines on January 31, 2024 , without sacrificing an organized and efficient workflow or breaking the bank.Despite the looming deadlines, TaxBandits, a leading IRS e-file provider, offers its clients - whether business owners or professional tax preparers - the tools necessary to meet theirfiling requirementsand needs. With a Tax Pro account, tax professionals can easily complete and track their clients' filings, add and manage their staff, and delegate responsibilities as needed for a last-minute filing solution that doesn't feel rushed.TaxBandits' Seamless Filing Solutions - Free for Tax ProfessionalsProfessional tax preparers can enjoy all the following streamlined features included in theirTax Professional accountat no additional cost.Staff Management ToolsTax professionals can invite their staff members to access the TaxBandits account with their own unique, secure credentials with thestaff management feature . After the invited staff members set up their account credentials, the account administrator can assign them to the businesses they are responsible for, with roles that scale their access. The staff member can be granted the highest level of privileges after the administrator as a Co-admin', they can also be assigned the role of Preparer', Approver', and Transmitter'. Roles can be adjusted and revoked as needed.Client Communication PortalThe customizable TaxBandits portal enables their clients to keep track of their recipients' forms, and filing status, review & approve forms, and maintain seamless communication.Within the portal, the 'Observations' tool facilitates communication and feedback between tax preparers and clients, enabling seamless collaboration and efficient resolution of observations.Clients can engage in the process by reviewing in-progress forms, offering feedback through observations, and sharing necessary files before transmission. Post-transmission, tax professionals can share copies of the final forms with clients as needed, ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative filing experience.Digital Document ManagementTax professionals can upload and store important documents from their clients in the secure, cloud-based TaxBandits application. Making it easy for them to pull these documents when completing future filings.Gather Insights from a Robust Reporting FeatureCPAs and tax professionals can generate reports to gain insights into their filing season at any time from their TaxBandits account. This includes a detailed summary of each business's filings, each staff member's filing activities, a Postal Mailing report, and credit-usage reports.Secure Credit Card Sharing OptionsTax professionals who prepare and file forms as a team can securely place orders using a saved credit card within the TaxBandits account. Another great option for ensuring secure payments for a team is purchasing prepaid credits. Prepaid credits can be applied at checkout instead of a payment method, allowing an entire team to file efficiently without needing access to credit card information.Manage Office LocationsTax Pro features are scalable to meet the needs of any accounting firm. With Office Locations, the account administrator can group their staff members by location. This is ideal for a large firm with multiple locations and teams.TaxBandits' Transparent, Tiered Pricing StructureWith TaxBandits, tax professionals can not only maximize their time but their money as well. TaxBandits enables tax professionals filing across multiple EINs to lock in their lowest pricing through tiered pricing. Prepaid credits allow tax professionals to maintain this pricing as they never expire. There are no subscription fees or upgrade fees with TaxBandits, all features are included for free in the account, and their clients are only charged for the forms they file.For the 2023 tax year, TaxBandits clients can opt-in to unlimitedTIN Matching services . At the cost of $19.99 per business, they can activate TIN Matching for an unlimited number of recipients for an entire year. This feature enhances accuracy and ensures compliance throughout the filing process, providing a valuable option for tax preparers.Flexible Recipient Copy Distribution ServicesTaxBandits simplifies recipient distribution for tax professionals with flexible options. Recipients can securely access forms online, reducing paper usage. Postal mailing is also supported for those preferring traditional copies. Tax professionals can easily select the preferred method, and real-time tracking keeps them informed. This streamlined range of distribution options enhances flexibility for both tax professionals and recipients.Dedicated Customer SupportTheir clients can confidently file, knowing they have easy access to TaxBandits' customer support team through phone, email, and live chat throughout the filing process. The TaxBandits team offers live, local support without the hassle of lengthy phone chains or automated bots, ensuring a responsive and personalized assistance experience for tax professionals.When asked about these streamlined solutions for tax professionals, Agie Sundaram, the CEO and CO-founder, responded,"TaxBandits' e-filing solutions empower tax professionals with efficiency and accuracy, streamlining the filing process with secure communication, personalized branding, and comprehensive recipient distribution options. Features like unlimited TIN Matching services prioritize their needs, ensuring confidence in tax preparation. Backed by responsive customer support, TaxBandits simplifies tax season for professionals." Tax professionals can begin tax preparation with TaxBandits by creating a free account attaxbandits.comtoday! About TaxBandits:TaxBandits is a SOC 2 Certified, IRS-authorized e-file provider specializing in1099 ,Form W-2 ,Form 1095-C ,Form 1095-B ,Form 940 ,Form 941 , andForm W-9 . Serving businesses, service providers, and tax professionals, TaxBandits offers a comprehensive solution for year-end filings.Software providers and other high-volume filers can take advantage ofTaxBandits API . The integration allows them to add value for their clients and expand monetization efforts. TaxBandits API enables seamless preparation ande-filing of 1099 , W-2,941 ,940
The Executive Secretary of the Student Loan Board, Akintunde Sawyerr, has said the student loan application to be launched soon will be devoid of human interference.

Mr Sawyerr spoke about the impending launch of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund to the state house correspondents on Monday.

He said the intention behind the Access to Higher Education Act 2023, was to ensure that the lack of finance is not a reason for any Nigerian not to go further in their education at a tertiary level.

This law seeks to bridge the gap between the desire to study and the capacity to go further. It seeks to bridge that gap, one that is created by lack of finance, lack of funding, he said.

He added that the scheme would look into supporting those who are most needy in the first instance.

Mr Sawyer noted that the portal for the student application has been developed to ensure seamless application.

Application processes

The official added that during the application, students will simply input their personal data including their National Identification Number (NIN) and admission number.

He said once it is approved, the school fees will be disbursed directly to the schools and not to students personal accounts.

In application and in applying for this loan, there is zero human intervention. In other words, there is an app. The applicant will go on to a portal, they will engage with that app. They will have to put in certain pieces of information which made them eligible- their JAMB number, and of course their date of birth, he said.

Further pieces of information include things like their national identity number, NIN, which confirms that they are Nigerians. This loan scheme is being paid for by Nigerian taxpayers, so it is for Nigerians, and the NIN helps verify and qualify them as such.

The official acknowledged that many students are struggling to pay their fees and that theres a very high dropout rate.

So its one thing to get into tertiary institutions, it is another thing to stay there for four years or for three years.

This scheme seeks to help people access and remain until they qualify or graduate, Mr Sawyerr noted.

FIRS chairman speaks

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, said the Education Tax would form part of the sources of funding the student loan fund.

He said: This is one of the schemes the education tax we will collect will be applied to. So, this is a way of being accountable to the taxpayer. Because the essence of education tax is to consolidate and restore education integrity and quality, and in fulfilling that part of the Act.

So, that is why the education tax fund is one of the sources of funding and by Gods grace well execute this laudable programme.

Students Loan

President Bola Tinubu signed the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023 into law, weeks after he was sworn in, in an attempt to fulfill one of his campaign promises.

The Act, popularly known as the Students Loan Law, seeks to provide loans for indigent Nigerian students to pay fees in any Nigerian tertiary institution.

The Act establishes the Nigerian Education Loan Fund which is expected to handle all loan requests, grants, disbursement, and recovery.

The Fund, according to the Act, is to be funded from multiple streams and will engage in other productive activities.

Its sources of funding as dictated by the Act include; one per cent of all profits accruing to the federal government from oil and other minerals; one per cent of taxes, levies and duties accruing to the federal government from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and Nigerian Customs Service (NCS); education bonds and education endowment fund schemes.

The government also said the fund will also be funded through donations, gifts, grants, endowment, and revenue accruing to the fund from any other source, according to the Act.

The government initially said it was to take effect in September but it didnt. Later, President Tinubu announced that the implementation would begin in January. He proposed N50 billion for its take-off in the 2024 budget he submitted to the National Assembly.

A PREMIUM TIMES review of the conditions for accessing the loans revealed some stringent measures that may make it difficult for many Nigerian students to benefit.

For instance, applicants must provide at least two guarantors, each of whom must either be a civil servant of at least level 12; a lawyer with at least 10 years post-call experience, or a judicial officer, or a justice of peace. Also, only applicants whose family income is less than N500,000 per annum are eligible to apply for the loan.

But last July, Mr Tinubu, ordered removal of all restrictions to accessing the student loan even though it had yet to take off at the time. It is unclear if the suspension remains in place.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe

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A popular Nigerian skit maker, Chibuike Ugwu, who raised an alarm about reported demolition in Centenary Estate in Enugu State, has revealed more details about the incident.

Mr Ugwu, otherwise known as Untouchable, had, on 19 January in a video clip, raised an alarm that his mansion was on the verge of being demolished by the states urban development agency, Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority.

In the five-minute clip which has gone viral on social media, the skit maker appealed to Nigerians to help him prevail on Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State not to demolish his property.

The state government has since responded to the allegation, explaining that the buildings recently demolished by the agency at the estate were only those found to be used as hideouts for kidnappers.

More details revealed

In another video clip on Sunday apparently shot at the estate, Mr Ugwu said, unlike when he made the first video clip, he has now gotten the full details of what was happening at the estate.

Flanked by his two unidentified associates, the skit manager thanked Governor Mbah for his quick intervention and said he was surprised that the governor did not know about the massive destructions at the estate.

He said he would not be able to narrate the full details of what he has been made to understand about the estate because the details are very long and plenty.

The skit maker said, in order not to provoke the governor, he has decided to apologise to him for making the first video, although he did not deny saying there were demolitions at the estate.

Please, dont be angry. It was my emotions. At the time I was seeing excavators, you understand, I felt this is my only house. So, it was emotions that made me do the first video, he pleaded with the governor in Pidgin English.

On his part, one of his associates, said he and Mr Ugwu uncovered a lot of things last Saturday, pointing out that for instance, that they did not know the estate was owned by a private firm.

We had thought that the estate was owned by the Enugu State Government. But reaching here now, we were able to get the real information regarding this place, he said.

They said they are confident that the matter would be settled, given the governors intervention.

Background

The estate, popularly known as the Centenary City, is on an expanse of land belonging to Obeagu Awkunanaw and some families in Amechi Uwani, a neighbouring community in Enugu South Local Government Area of the state.

It was, however, said to have been acquired by an estate developer, Private Estates International West Africa, during the administration of a former governor of the state, Sullivan Chime.

The administration of the immediate past governor of the state, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, in 2020, initially revoked the Certificate of Occupancy earlier issued to the developer.

The past government later announced that it would begin the demolition of buildings at the estate on 4 May 2023 after it obtained a consent judgment from the State High Court in Enugu on 9 February that year to demolish the properties in the estate.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that during the 9 February ruling, the government obtained a consent judgment with the Private Estates International West Africa to demolish the properties in the estate.

Some buildings in the estate were eventually demolished at the time, amidst opposition from Obeagu Awkunanaw Community and some families in Amechi Uwani Community, who are the original owners of the land where the estate is.

There were reports, afterwards, that the developer later recovered the Certificate of Occupancy for the estate earlier revoked by the state government.

The issues concerning the demolition of properties at the estate have been a subject of litigation in various courts for a long time now given that the original owners of the property had been challenging the government over the issues.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The people of Azerbaijan will vote again for a confident future at the upcoming presidential election, the local MP Iltizam Yusifov told Trend.

"The steps taken by Western political leaders, raised in the comfort of offices, against a professional and experienced statesman who has achieved victory on the battlefield, cannot have any effect," the MP said. "The slanderous campaign of the West against our country, along with information manipulations, cannot influence our determination. The Azerbaijani people, as always, will once again vote for a confident future, development, and stability."

He noted that regardless of the nature and scale, every election brings democratic experience to countries.

"It can already be predicted who the people will vote for in the presidential election, which will play a significant role in the political life of Azerbaijan. The victorious people expressed full trust in the victorious political leader and united closely around him, which is natural," Yusifov pointed out.

"Every force interested in strengthening democracy must actively participate in the election. The commitment to democracy of those boycotting the election raises serious doubts. The pompous speeches of 'leaders' of political forces, suffering from false patriotism, are designed to deceive their supporters and conceal their political weaknesses. It's well known that President Ilham Aliyev, despite competition, is the absolute favorite in the upcoming election," he explained.

The MP mentioned that in many countries, people choose the stronger of two strong candidates.

"The reality is that even the combined strength of Ilham Aliyev's opponents in the upcoming presidential election in Azerbaijan is extremely weak. In fact, opposition leaders also understand well that Ilham Aliyev is the only strong personality in Azerbaijan who manages the country better than anyone and will strengthen it," Yusifov highlighted. "However, the strength of the victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief lies not in the weakness of other candidates but in the people's love for him and, of course, in the work he has done over the past 20 years."

"The fact that the head of state raised our tricolor flag in Shusha, Khankendi, and other liberated territories is enough to fulfill our civic duty to him. Until 2020, people in Azerbaijan had been saying 'Karabakh is our problem; it is under occupation'. We no longer use this expression. At one time, we prayed for the liberation of at least one village, and today the entire Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur are under our control," the MP noted.

He emphasized that the envious attitude of Western countries, suffering from a deficit of influential and charismatic political leaders, towards Ilham Aliyev can be understood.

"In addition to the fact that the slogan 'Victorious leader of the Victorious Nation!' is substantive and broad in its essence, it is backed by specific facts and conclusions. It's not just an election slogan, but also a historical reality. The presidential election will mark the beginning of Azerbaijan's movement towards new goals in a new stage. Our people want to move towards these goals together with a political leader who constantly brings them the joy of victory," concluded Yusifov.

On December 7, 2023, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on holding an extraordinary presidential election in the country on February 7, 2024.

The Central Election Commission (CEC) of Azerbaijan on December 19 approved the candidacy of Ilham Aliyev, nominated by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP), for participation in the extraordinary presidential election.

Azerbaijan has registered seven candidates to run in the extraordinary presidential election.

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The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, is among the eminent personalities to analyse the various reforms being undertaken by the current administration of President Bola Tinubu at this years Daily Trust Dialogue, which will be held on Thursday, in Abuja.

Mr Edun is one of the three guest speakers selected for this years Dialogue, which has the theme Tinubus Economic Reforms: Gainers and Losers. The two other guest speakers are the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joseph Ajaero, and the immediate past Director General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Victoria Akai.

Aside from the three, several other economists, industrialists, businessmen and women, as well as eminent citizens are participating in this years Daily Trust Dialogue, which is the 21st in the series. These include a professor of economics at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Muttaka Usman; the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters in the Office of the Vice President, Tope Fasua; the CEO of L&Z Integrated Dairy Farms Limited, Muhammad Abubakar, and the Operations Manager at the World Bank Country Office in Nigeria, Taimur Samad.

Mohammed Bago, a banker, politician and member of the 9th House of Representatives, who is the current governor of Niger State, is one of the confirmed special guests at the event. Other special guests expected include the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum and governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya; the governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo; the governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule; the governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi; the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; and the South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Thami Mseleko.

Other dignitaries expected at the 2024 Dialogue include former state governors, serving and former lawmakers, chairmen and members of market associations as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from across the country, members of civil society organisations, development partners and diplomats.

A statement signed by the Ag. Group Chief Executive Officer of the Media Trust Group, owners of Daily Trust and Trust Television, Ahmed Shekarau, said that this years Dialogue will be combined with the presentation of the winner of the 2023 Daily Trust African of the Year award. A South African humanist, Imtiaz Sooliman, emerged winner of the 2023 award after a rigorous process undertaken by the Selection Board for the award, which is being chaired by a former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae.

The statement also disclosed further that the event, which will be held at the NAF Conference Centre & Suites, Abuja, will be broadcast live on Trust Television, which is on StarTimes Channel 164; NigComSats Free TV; Moreplex 715; ArabSat Badr Sat7; AVO TV; LIMEX World TV, YouTube, as well as on Trust Radio, which streams online.

The annual Daily Trust Dialogue is part of the Media Trust Groups contributions to stimulating discussions by Nigerians and fellow Africans towards enhancing national, and indeed, African integration and cohesion, which are crucial for sustainable socio-political growth and economic development of Nigeria, and the African Continent at large.

Since 2002, Media Trust has hosted the annual public lecture series to discuss topical issues on various aspects of governance. The series of dialogues had been attended by past Heads of Government, the leadership of the National Assembly as well as captains of commerce and industry, aside from members of the diplomatic corps.

The Daily Trust Dialogue had equally been graced at different times by eminent personalities from across Africa. They include the late former President of Ghana, Jerry Rawlings; and Salim Salim, former Prime Minister of Tanzania. Others are the late Winnie Mandela of South Africas anti-apartheid struggle; Mo Ibrahim, founder of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation; and Samia Nkrumah, daughter of late Kwame Nkrumah. Several serving and past presidents of the Nigerian Senate and speakers of the House of Representatives, governors and deputy governors, also participated in the event over the years.

Ahmed I. Shekarau, Ag. Group CEO, MEDIA TRUST GROUP.

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The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has said that about 230 properties at the site of the Ibadan explosion were currently undergoing structural integrity tests.

They include 13 houses within 50 metres radius of the explosion site, 40 houses at 100 metres radius; 122 houses at 200 metres radius and 53 houses within a 250 metres radius.

In an update on his X account on Sunday, the governor also revealed that 90 per cent of victims of the Ibadan explosion have been discharged from the hospital.

He said a medical team at the Emergency Operation Centre and the State Commissioner for Health, Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, visited two hospitals where victims of the explosion were admitted.

While disclosing that operations at ground zero of the explosion site had moved from search and rescue to recovery, Mr Makinde reiterated that investigations were still ongoing and that the perpetrators would be brought to book.

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I commend our security agencies in Oyo State who have been maintaining law and order in and around Bodija this week as well as residents who have been complying with directives from these officers.

Let me use this opportunity to thank the Nigerian Society of Engineers who have been carrying out structural integrity tests on about 230 properties around the site of the explosion.

We are also grateful to my brother, Governor @jidesanwoolu for releasing the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to support us, and for the assistance offered by the team led by Engineer Olatunde Akinsanya, the Director of Operations, he said.

Mr Makinde assured that his administration remained committed to supporting all victims of the unfortunate incident.

Please contact the Emergency Operations Centre on 07049948057 or 08147672009 for any issues related to the Bodija incident, he added.

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The police in Anambra State have refuted allegations that Emeka Offor, a renowned entrepreneur in the state, instigated the arrest of an activist in the state.

The self-acclaimed activist, Bonny Okonkwo, was arrested and detained by police in the state, on 3 January, over alleged criminal defamation.

Mr Okonkwo is from Oraifite, a community in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State.

He was said to have posted on social media that a meter manufacturing company in Oraifite, said to be owned by Mr Offor, was an empty warehouse, intended to defraud the federal government.

His lawyer was said to have accused Mr Offor of instigating the activists arrest.

But the police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Sunday described the allegation as pedestrian.

Mr Ikenga, a deputy superintendent of police, said the police need no instigation to do their job.

The police spokesperson argued that any Nigerian citizen whom a crime was committed against has the right to complain to the police for investigation in line with the countrys constitution.

Due process was followed in the arrest and detention of the offender for a thorough investigation.

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Even while in detention he persisted in his crime through the use of an electronic device until he was properly searched and denied use of the gadget, he said.

Mr Ikenga contended that Mr Okonkwos detention was on the order of a court, and is therefore legal and proper.

The police spokesperson urged Nigerians not to be swayed by propaganda allegedly being peddled by the suspects lawyer.

In one breath, he (the lawyer) claimed his client merely criticised the complainant, yet he admitted that his client published on a social media space that the Meter Manufacturing Company commissioned by the Vice President at Oraifite, an event witnessed by many dignitaries from all walks of life, was an empty warehouse decorated to deceive the people! How more destructive can an activist be? Mr Ikenga stated.

He said the police were about to conclude their investigation on the matter and that Mr Okonkwo would be arraigned.

The spokesperson said the police in Anambra will never infringe on the rights of Nigerians, but added that they will never shy away from prosecuting those who break laws.

He stressed that the police in the state will always prosecute offenders in accordance with the provisions of the constitution and other laws in the country.

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Resident doctors at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Enugu State, have announced plans to embark on an indefinite strike over shortage of doctors and insecurity in the state.

The doctors said they were also embarking on the strike to protest the alleged poor sponsorship of residency programmes in the state.

The doctors, under the platform of the Association of Resident Doctors, disclosed this in a communique issued on Monday in Enugu.

The communique was jointly signed by the President of the association, Chukwunonso Ofonere and its Secretary-General, Ikemefuna Nnamani.

The doctors said they had, during an emergency meeting on 8 December 2023, resolved to embark on the strike if the Enugu State Government failed to meet their demands in January.

They said in the communique that the indefinite strike would begin on 31 January since the state government had failed to meet their demands after a 14-day ultimatum.

The government had still failed to meet the demands after 49 days grace, the doctors said.

Shortage of doctors

The doctors said the management of the teaching hospital and the state government had failed to declare a state of emergency on the employment of doctors and safety and security within the hospital.

The doctors accused the government of reneging on a promise it made over 180 days ago, through the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, to employ resident doctors.

About their security and safety, the doctors said the security operatives who were positioned at the gate of the hospital were no longer there, and that assault on doctors had increased. They expressed the fear that their safety and that of other health workers in the hospital could not be guaranteed.

Demands

The management should declare a state of emergency on the employment of doctors in the hospital. There should be an urgent approval for the recruitment of medical officers, resident doctors and house officers in the hospital.

This recruitment should be focused especially at the Accident and Emergency Department, Surgery Department, Internal Medicine Department, Paediatrics Department, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Departments, the communique read in part.

READ ALSO: Nigerian doctors seek legislation to address organ trafficking

Management should ensure implementation of safety policies to protect her workers against physical attacks and kidnap by restoring the daily police and other covert security personnel deployed to the hospital.

The 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund has not been paid and exam bodies are closing their adverts, it added.

Salary increment

The doctors said in the communique that salary increments had not been looked into at all even as house officers were excluded from the hardship/palliative of N25,000 given by the state government.

We are still back to where we were in 2023 or even worse as plans are on the way to increase the rents of those living in the hospital quarters (one-bedroom apartment) by about 375 per cent from N8,000 to N30,000 monthly.

This will escalate the already palpable crises and we will be left with no other alternatives but to protect the interest and welfare of our members, the doctors said.

The doctors appealed to Governor Peter Mbah to urgently intervene in the matter to avoid hardship and loss of lives that might occur if there is a disruption in the health care delivery in the state.

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A former General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Mechanised Division of the Nigerian Army, Danjuma Ali-Keffi, has asked President Bola Tinubu to investigate the death of former Chief of Army Staff, Ibrahim Attahiru, in a plane crash, which he linked to terror financiers in the country.

He also petitioned the president over his illegal arrest, detention and compulsory retirement from service for allegedly exposing how top officials were involved in terror financing during the administration of former President Mohammadu Buhari.

In an interview with ThisDay newspaper published on Monday, Mr Ali-Keffi said Mr Attahiru, under whom he served as GOC, and 11 other military officers, died in a suspicious military crash in Kaduna on 21 May 2021.

The tragic incident involved a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) plane which crashed near the Kaduna International Airport, amid adverse weather conditions.

Mr Attahiru was going to Zaria for a passing-out parade of army recruits.

Mr Ali-Keffi said the investigation of the crash was swept under the carpet, as the full report of the investigation was not made known.

He said the late army chief developed a strategy to end terrorism in the North, part of which was an infiltration of terror groups and the instigation of crisis among terror leaders, which resulted in the killing of the Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, by a rival terror group, Islamic State for West African Province (ISWAP).

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Mr Shekau was killed in a fight between his group and ISWAP.

Let me put it succinctly, late General Attahiru showed strong commitment to end the insurgency ravaging the northern parts of the country, Mr Ali-Keffi said.

He explained that a crucial aspect of the strategy involved disrupting the oxygen supply to terrorism, targeting both funding and logistics, while actively pursuing the terror financiers.

Mr Ali-Keffi, initially scheduled to receive the late army chief as GOC before the plane crash, pointed to significant deviations in the plans for Mr Attahirus trip.

These included an unexpected change in travel time, a switch in aircraft, a shift in the landing airport from a military airstrip to the Kaduna International Airport, the landing occurring in turbulent and stormy weather, and a preceding ear-shattering explosion before the crash.

He highlighted the absence of a crater or impact at the crash site, emphasising that the passengers bodies were ejected and burnt before the aircraft descended, strongly suggesting an explosion.

He said, The Operation Service Wide (OSW), a presidential task force, which I was commanding at the time of Late General Attahirus headship of the Nigerian Army, had as its primary mandate to dismantle the terrorism financing network in order to aid the fight against terrorism and insurgency.

Late General Attahiru appointed me as GOC 1 Div (whilst still being the Commander of OSW) to enable me to effectively discharge the task (OSW). It is important to note that OSW was not just an investigative outfit but also carried out covert operations to capture, or kill insurgents leaders and key fighters in the field; destroy insurgent camps and facilities, as well support the military and other security agencies operations.

Furthermore, having command of 1 Div served as cover for me to carry out the task (OSW) without attracting unnecessary attention or making people aware of the existence of the outfit (OSW).

About 2100 hrs on Thursday 20 May 2021, I spoke on the phone with the Chief of Staff (COS) to the late COAS regarding their impending trip to Kaduna the following day (21 May 2021). I had earlier spoken with General Attahiru on the same issue. We ended our conversation on the note that the late COAS and entourage would come by flight at about 1000 hrs the following day.

About 0630 hrs the following morning, I called the COS to the late COAS to confirm if their travel plan was as we discussed the night before, as I needed to make arrangements for the Mosque that the COAS would attend Jummuat (Friday) prayers.

The COS informed me that there was a change of plan. He said after we finished speaking last night, they received a message that the late COAS was to attend a meeting either at the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD) office or at the Presidential Villa at about 1000 hrs on Friday 21 May 2021 and that the late COAS was to attend in person and not send a representative.

It is important to note that the late COAS trip to Kaduna was part of his visit to Zaria to attend the Passing Out Parade at the Depot NA slated for Saturday 22 May 2021.

It is worth noting that the movement of service chiefs out of station (Abuja) is with the prior knowledge of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), and the presidency.

So, why was a meeting scheduled for about the same time that the late COAS was to have departed for (or arrived) Kaduna and why the insistence that he (COAS) should not be represented?

In any case, the COS informed me that in view of the meeting, they would depart the Flag House (official residence of the COAS) at about 1530 hrs (after attending the meeting and also after the Jummu at prayers) for the airport.

They expected to arrive at the airport at about 1600 hrs, board the aircraft at about 1610  1615 hrs and depart for Kaduna. At about 1600 hrs, I was informed that they had arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Airport. I then set off from the Stallion House (official residence of the GOC) with my entourage in a convoy and arrived at the Air Force Base at about 1615 hrs.

For reasons that I cannot understand till today, the flight was delayed for over an hour and did not take off until 1730 hrs or thereabout. The reason for the delay, as I was informed, was that there was an issue with the aircraft that was initially assigned for the mission (to convey the COAS and his entourage) and that it had to be changed.

Mr Ali-Keffi said they had received information that there would be heavy rainfall accompanied by a storm.

Meantime, there was a meteorological alert that Kaduna airspace was going to experience heavy rainfall accompanied by storm (wind shear) and it was advised. Already, the cloud had formed in Kaduna, which was visible to us at the airport.

As a matter of fact, the cloud was so thick, which was indicative of a massive storm. I began to nurse doubts about the flight. At some point, I voiced my doubts to Air Commodore Iyamu and Air Commodore Ilo, who were with me to receive the COAS.

I even suggested that they should advise Abuja of weather conditions with a view to having the flight cancelled. At that point, I was informed that the aircraft was airborne (at about 1745 hrs). I became concerned as to whether the aircraft would be able to land at the airport in such a heavy rainfall, storm (the rain had started falling then).

Thus, I was not surprised when Air Commodore Ilo informed me that we had to go to the Civil (International Airport) as the NAF runway was not long enough to enable the aircraft to land under the atrocious weather conditions. We then set off for the International Airport but at a snails speed due to the heavy rainfall, which was accompanied by shale (ice particles).

He continued, When we got to the vicinity of the airport, there was a thunderous sound, which I thought was the sound of thunder. We had earlier cited what I believed was the aircraft descending to land on the runway. When we turned the bend to enter the tarmac, the thought on my mind was that the aircraft had touched down and was taxing to the parking area.

I couldnt see any aircraft on the runway. I frantically looked around and by the far side of the runway, there was a fireball. It was the aircraft conveying General Attahiru! We got out of the vehicles, crossed the runway and approached the burning aircraft. Firefighters were on hand to put out the blaze. At some point, we had to pull back due to the fear of exploding cylinders.

We later recovered the corpses of the 10 passengers on board the ill-fated plane far from where the plane wreckage was. Apparently, their bodies, which were on fire, were flung from the aircraft before it came down (already in flames). Furthermore, the aircraft (or what was left of it), at least what I could recollect, was on a relatively flat grassland.

There was no crater. This was indicative of a mid-air explosion. So, what caused the aircraft to explode? I wonder what the Air Safety and Accident Investigation Bureau report says about the incident.

He further queried, Was the flight deliberately delayed in order to be caught up in the rainstorm? Was the aircraft sabotaged, which caused it to explode mid-air? Was the explosion caused by explosives? Was a bomb planted in the aircraft or contained in a parcel, which a passenger unknowingly (or knowingly) carried?

Arrested, detained and retired

In an earlier story by Daily Trust extracted from the interview and published on Sunday, Mr Ali-Keffi said he was arrested, detained and retired compulsorily from the army during the Buhari administration.

He said he headed the Presidential Investigative Taskforce set up by Mr Buhari, which exposed how top officials, a top banker and top military brass were involved in terror financing.

He said the revelation resulted in his illegal arrest and 64 days of detention in solitary confinement, where he slept on the floor with consequent health implications.

According to him, while he was in prison, the former president did nothing to rescue him.

His petition to President Tinubu reads; I was the president of the Board of Inquiry (BOI) with members/secretary drawn from the NCS, NIS, SSS, NIA, ONSA, NFIU as well as from the Police.

The Board of Inquiry, which largely conducted its work as an investigative body, was tasked to investigate circumstances surrounding the illegal smuggling of petroleum products contained in 168 oil tankers into Benin Republic through a single smuggling route in Ilesa Barbara in Kwara State.

The BOI went further to uncover 295 oil tankers that conveyed Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and the major smugglers identified.

The BOI, according to him, made relevant discoveries about the relationship between the smuggling racket, the terrorism besetting the North-east, and the banditry/kidnapping for ransom which was at its formative stage in the North-west and parts of North-central geo-political zones.

He said the involvement of illegal mineral mining in the North-west and North-central regions, coupled with extensive money laundering, primarily designated for ongoing counter-terrorism/insurgency operations in the Northern regions of the country.

He added, A syndicate, which had an extensive network in the country as well as being affiliated to international criminal network, was as the centre of moving finances for terrorism for other criminal activities stated above.

The most worrisome aspect was that some of the individuals involved in terrorism financing of Boko Haram terrorists and who were also involved in procurement and movement of arms and ammunition for BH (Boko Haram) and other criminal organisations had links with the military.

It was thus apparent that terrorism and insurgency in the North-east, North-west and North-central were a criminal enterprise and were largely undertaken with profit rather than any ideology, as the primary motive.

Thus, we, at the BOI arrived at the obvious conclusion that progress cannot be achieved except the financiers, collaborators, supporters and the leadership of the terrorists and insurgents groups are identified and the network dismantled.

He further stated in the petition that recommendations on the findings were made and submitted to the presidency, which led to the successful infiltration of the leadership of terror groups in the North-east, which culminated in their decimation.

Asserting that key terrorism financiers were linked to the individuals convicted for terror financing in UAE, Mr Ali-Keffi said trouble started when the Task Force became victims of unfair attacks including starvation of funding for its operations.

This substantiates the argument that some powerful persons in and outside government as well as from the military were uncomfortable with the task force and specifically my humble self as commander, he said.

Mr Ali-Keffi sought reward for the pains and injuries inflicted on him during his incarceration and the approval of personal security for his safety.

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One week after the commencement of the sales of forms for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), prospective applicants have expressed frustration over the challenges faced in their efforts to either link their mobile telephone lines with their National Identification Number (NIN) or incorrect information contained in their NIN details.

UTME is an entrance examination for candidates seeking admission into Nigerian tertiary institutions- universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and monotechnics. It is conducted annually by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

JAMB has mandated candidates willing to participate in the examination to use their NIN for the application process. It is part of the examination bodys measures to counter malpractices like impersonation.

But following increasing complaints by applicants, their parents, or guardians, JAMB said it already scheduled a meeting with the leadership of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC)- the body in charge of NIN.

Challenges

Since the sales of forms kicked off on Monday, 15 January, many applicants and their parents and guardians have expressed dissatisfaction with the challenges posed in their efforts to generate their electronic pins for registration.

Abiodun Omole, a guardian to an applicant, said his nephew could not generate the required profile code for registration even after following the laid down instructions, and repeating the processes many times.

He said the message he consistently received is No record found. Send email with NIN and name to nimc-jamb2023@nimc.gov.ng. Then try again in 4 hours.

I have sent the mail more than five times without any response from NIMC. This is disappointing and frustrating, he said.

Similarly, Musefiu Alabi, said the information supplied for his daughter by NIMC is at variance with what was provided at the registration point.

The local government area for her state of origin provided during her NIN registration is quite different from what we found at the point of registration. For my son, the date of birth is 25th but we saw 23rd. We are aware changing such requires as much as N15,000 and takes time to take effect, Mr Alabi said.

He narrated the frustration of many other applicants at a registration centre in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, saying; These children shouldnt be made to face this kind of crisis because they are seeking admission into tertiary institutions. Things ought to have improved better than this mess we now face.

Findings by PREMIUM TIMES revealed that there are numerous other challenges with NIN requiring data updates or correction but many applicants have gone ahead with their registration on the JAMB portal because their parents and guardians said they could not afford extra costs for such services.

Is it the time for the correction or the money involved? The money required to correct data with NIMC can be used to obtain two UTME forms. Isnt that crazy? We are not just serious in this country, another parent who does not want to be quoted told this newspaper.

JAMB pledges intervention

JAMB has said it is aware of the challenges faced by applicants, especially in connection with their NIN verification and linkage, and pledged swift intervention.

The Head of Public Affairs and Protocol for the examination body, Fabian Benjamin, said JAMB is surprised by the volume of complaints, and that a meeting has been scheduled between the leaderships of the two organisations.

Both JAMB and NIMC will meet on Monday (today) to address the concerns and I can assure you that these issues will be addressed, Mr Benjamin said.

He, however, advised applicants who observe incorrect details in their NIN records to halt their UTME registration until the information is updated and corrected by NIMC.

Meanwhile, efforts to get the reaction of NIMC on the development were unsuccessful as calls to the telephone line of the Head of its Public Communications Unit, Kayode Adegoke, were not answered.

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has received three drones and 100 highly profiled self-configured walkie-talkies from international partners to combat insecurity.

This is part of the strategy to ensure the safety of lives and properties of the citizenry and also for proper surveillance of critical national assets and infrastructure in Nigeria.

NSCDC Spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, who made this known in a statement on Monday, said the donation was made by Equipping the Needy Initiative (ETNI) and its partners.

As part of measure to ensure the safety, and security of lives and property as well as surveillance of critical national assets and infrastructure, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has received three drones and 100 highly profiled self-configured walkie-talkies from international partners the statement said

According to the statement, the gadgets were received by the Commandant General (CG), Ahmed Audi, who appreciated the ETNI and its partner for the provisions.

The CG said the ETNI has led the example and shown that security is a collaborative effort because of the support.

Our partners in their previous visit promised partnership and true to their words, they have come to fulfil that promise today, it shows that they just dont do the talk they work the talk, Mr Audi said.

He also assured that the gadgets would be effectively used for security purposes.

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He said, Anything being given has been given as a trust and the communication centre so promised will serve as a command and control centre where we will harness our national operations. The Corps is in charge of liberated areas and provides safety and security to IDP camps.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ETNI, Benedict Aliku, who was accompanied by some security experts and consultants from the United States, affirmed that their donation indeed testifies to their support for adequate security and a collaborative one.

One such initiative as we leverage on the NSCDC Act 2003 as amended 2007 is to embark on IDP shelter projects for the Needy in five states of Kaduna, Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa, and will be managed by the NSCDC, he said.

Additionally, Mr Aliku said the construction of a communication command centre will be located at the national headquarters of the corps in Abuja and will coordinate surveillance across the nation.

Also, an award was presented to the CG in recognition of his unwavering commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of the people of Nigeria.

The Commandant in charge of the Counter Terrorism Unit, C.C. Edike Akpan, also appreciated the CG and partners of the corps for beefing up the unit to meet international best practices and assured of the units readiness to utilise the facility well.

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Obi Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives, has slammed former President Muhammadu Buhari over a comment credited to him on the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Mr Buharis former spokesperson, Femi Adesina, in his new book recently unveiled, had quoted the former president as saying bringing Mr Kanu back to face trial in Nigeria was a favour.

Mr Adesina, in his book titled Working with Buhari: Reflections of A Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015-2023), narrated how a group known as Highly-Respected Igbo Greats, led by Mbazulike Ameachi, first republic minister of aviation, pleaded with the former president to release Mr Kanu.

In the excerpt from the book, Mr Buhari was quoted to have told his guests that incarcerating Mr Kanu was a favour compared to the alternative.

I feel it is a favour to give him (Kanu) that opportunity. The government could have mobilised to eliminate him where he was, but we did not do that.

You have made an extremely difficult demand on me as the leader of this country. The implication of your request is very serious. In the last six years, nobody will say I have confronted the judiciary, Mr Buhari was quoted to have said.

Reacting to the comments, Mr Aguocha, who represents Umuahia North/Umuahia South/Ikwuano Federal Constituency of Abia State, where Mr Kanu hails from, in a statement on Monday, condemned the former president, stating that suggesting that the elimination of a citizen was an option, even in retrospect, is alarming and raises serious questions about the commitment to the rule of law and human rights.

He said in a democratic society, it is fundamental that all individuals, irrespective of their actions or positions, are treated according to the law.

The suggestion of elimination as a viable option undermines the principles of justice and due process, he said.

Mr Aguocha said leaders must adhere to and promote these values, ensuring that all actions, especially those concerning life and liberty, are grounded in legality and respect for human rights.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria, in its recent judgment, roundedly condemned Buharis government, the attack on the home of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and also his rendition from Kenya.

For the former president to summarily suggest that being subjected to such illegality was a favour for a citizen is totally reckless and reeks of all things personal vendetta, and so far from the high standards of civility expected from a leader.

President Buhari should rather come clean by confessing all he used his office to do to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the South-east. Nobody, including Femi Adesina and his principal, should play God in respect of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

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There is obviously an inordinate obsession in the former president seeing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in detention because of his personal prejudice. The Buhari government failed and or refused to obey all the orders in favour of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu granted by courts of competent jurisdiction. So that any remark suggesting that Buhari rather than eliminate Mazi Nnamdi Kanu preferred that the matter be determined by the courts is an attempt to launder the image of an oppressor into a benevolent president, he said.

The legislator said the detention of Mr Kanu confirms the hatred of the former President to the people of South-east.

The president only used the judicial system to victimise Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and the South-east. Otherwise, why couldnt the government establish a crime by providing credible evidence in court against Mazi Nnamdi Kanu for all the years? By the way, wasnt it the failed attempt at eliminating Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in his village that forced the gentleman to escape from Nigeria?

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a victim of President Buharis ill will and hatred against the Dot people, he said.

The IPOB leader has been in and out of detention in Nigeria since 2015, the fallout of his run-in with the Nigerian government over his separatist campaigns.

He and his IPOB, already designated as a terrorist organisation in Nigeria, are seeking the secession of an independent Biafra nation, comprising most of the areas of the old Eastern Region.

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The 16 members of the Plateau State House of Assembly sacked by the Court of Appeal last November have resolved to resume legislative duties on Tuesday.

The group of ousted legislators, made their decision known when they briefed journalists on Monday in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the members, who were elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had their election nullified by the court for a lack of party structure.

NAN also reports that the federal lawmakers elected on the platform of the PDP in the state were also sacked by the Court of Appeal, citing the same reason; and re-run elections to fill their seats had been set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for February 3.

Governor Caleb Mutfwangs election was also quashed by the same court for the same reason. It was, however, reversed by the Supreme Court in a 12 January judgement.

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Deducing from the apex courts judgment, the lawmakers claimed that they were only on recess and would resume duties on Tuesday.

The spokesperson of the group, Ishaku Maren, said that while they were on recess, two judgments were delivered regarding the status of the Plateau State House of Assembly.

Mr Maren, who was the majority leader of the assembly before the Appeal Court judgement, stated that they were a product of democracy and were validly elected by the majority of votes that were cast in their various constituencies.

It was even in the words of the Supreme Court that that Appeal Court judgement was a miscarriage of justice.

I want to also state that even in law, it says that if there is an injury, there will certainly be a remedy.

Our constituents are willing and ready to accompany us to the assembly tomorrow because they voted for us, and they are not ready to compromise that, Mr Maren stated.

(NAN)

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The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has condemned the relocation of some departments in the Central Bank of Nigeria and the headquarters of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos State.

The senators called on the federal government to consider reversal of the relocated departments or ready to face legal actions.

Suleiman Kawu, the spokesperson of NSF, made the call in a statement on Monday.

The CBN in an internal memo last week announced plans to transfer some of its departments to Lagos on the ground that its headquarters in Abuja is congested with staff.

Similarly, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo also announced the relocation of the FAAN headquarters from Abuja to Lagos.

Mr Kawu, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), representing Kano South in the upper chamber, explained that the northerners are not satisfied with the relocation of the two federal government agencies to Lagos.

He said the northern senators have started engaging with their colleagues from other geopolitical zones in order to ensure that the relocated departments in the two federal agencies are reversed to Abuja.

The senator urged the aggrieved northerners to exercise patience with the inconveniences they might have faced due to the relocation of the agencies to Lagos.

First and foremost, let us assure our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively engaging with our colleagues in order to address these matters effectively. We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to bring about positive change for our nation.

We urge our constituents to remain patient as we diligently explore avenues for dialogues, engage in peaceful negotiations, and deploy legal measures where necessary.

Rest assured, our actions align with the constitutional framework and the laws of the land, as we endeavour to uphold justice and fairness, he said.

Mr Kawu said the forums members will discuss with the federal government, leadership of the Senate and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the offices are returned to Abuja.

It is our belief that through effective communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision, we can forge a path that leads to positive change. We will engage the executive branch of the government and the leadership of the Senate and the relevant stakeholders to actively listen to the concerns of Nigerians and provide updates on our progress.

We encourage everyone to participate in these channels of communication, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives valued.

In conclusion, we, as representatives of the people, are fully committed to resolving the pressing issues at hand. We ask for your continued support, trust, and patience as we work towards delivering positive outcomes for our constituents and upholding the values enshrined in our Constitution.

This is the second time that a Northern group will be condemning relocation of the two federal government agencies since it was made public.

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) had earlier condemned the relocation of the offices, claiming that the decision was to further under-develop the northern part of the country.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The US is interested in close cooperation with Azerbaijan and Armenia for reaching a peace agreement, Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department said during a briefing January 22, Trend reports.

"I don't have any scheduling updates to offer [for the possible meeting of Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers in Washington], but we look forward to talking more about this soon. This is something that the United States and the Secretary is interested in and this is something that we're going to work very hard to get across the finish line in close coordination with Armenia and Azerbaijan and others who are working on this issue," he said.

Earlier in December 2023, US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien said that Secretary Blinken looks forward to hosting foreign ministers Bayramov and Mirzoyan in Washington soon for peace negotiations.

Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry later said the place and date of the next meeting between the foreign ministers haven't been agreed upon yet.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the management of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to extend the interest-free loan initiative to Nigerian students interested in skill-development programmes.

The President issued this directive at the State House on Monday after a briefing from the Executive Secretary of the intervention programme, Akintunde Sawyerr, a statement by the presidents spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, said.

The statement added that the implementation of the loan begins later this month.

The statement reads in part: The President said it is important for the scheme to accommodate those who may not want to pursue university education, noting that skill acquisition is as important as obtaining undergraduate and graduate academic qualifications.

This is not an exclusive programme. It is catering to all of our young people. Young Nigerians are gifted in different areas. This is not only for those who want to be doctors, lawyers, and accountants. It is also for those who aspire to use their skilled and trained hands to build our nation. In accordance with this, I have instructed NELFUND to explore all opportunities to inculcate skill-development programmes because not everybody wants to go through a full university education.

It quoted Mr Tinubu as emphasising the need for equity and inclusivity in the management of the programme, adding that there is no compromise in his governments commitment to the disadvantaged citizens of Nigeria.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Mr Sawyerr promised a loan application process with limited human interface.

Technology to drive initiative

The statement said he also told the president that the process would be technology-driven, and would eliminate any possibility of maladministration in the programme.

By design, this is a perpetual programme and will not terminate. The funds, earmarked for bonafide Nigerian students, will be disbursed directly to the institutions in the initial phase through electronic transfer. Our students will be catered to in a way that bypasses human interference through the full utilisation of available technological platforms, in adherence to Your Excellencys stated objectives, the statement quoted him as saying.

He said NELFUND has developed a robust risk-mitigation mechanism to address potential risks that may arise from the programme.

Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, said funding sources have been made available to ensure the smooth take-off and sustenance of the programme.

Mr President is permanently solving the problem of funding for education in Nigeria. By the directive of the President, the Education Tax Fund is being reviewed to additionally cater to the needs of our university students across all local government areas in the country as they seek to access vocational and traditional university education. Funding for the programme will be adequately covered, he said.

About NELFUND

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) is the creation of the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023.

The Act, popularly known as the Student Loan Law, seeks to provide loans for indigent Nigerian students to pay fees in any Nigerian tertiary institution.

NELFUND is the body created by the Act to handle all loan requests, grants, disbursement and recuperation of the loans provided.

The Fund, according to the Act, is to be funded from multiple streams and will engage in other productive activities.

Its sources of funding as dictated by the Act include; one per cent of all profits accruing to the federal government from oil and other minerals; one per cent of taxes, levies and duties accruing to the federal government from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and Nigerian Customs Service (NCS); education bonds and education endowment fund schemes.

It would also be funded through donations, gifts, grants, endowment and revenue accruing to the fund from any other source, according to the Act.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe

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The All Progressive Congress (APC ) in Plateau State says the vow by sacked lawmakers to return to the Plateau State House of Assembly is a call to anarchy.

The 16 members elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were sacked by the Court of Appeal for lack of party structure in the state.

But on Monday, the lawmakers told journalists in Jos that they would return to the Assembly because the Supreme Court faulted their sack.

Responding to the development, however, the state publicity secretary of the APC, Sylvanus Namang, warned against the plan by the sacked lawmakers.

In a statement made available to journalists in Jos, Mr Namang said: What began last week as a veiled threat by a former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon Istifanus Caleb Mwansat during his infamous interview with AIT is fast becoming a reality.

The APC and all peace-loving citizens of Plateau State had expected that he ought not to be walking the streets as a free citizen following his inflammatory outbursts. The APC wishes to state in no uncertain terms that the plans and threats by the sacked members contemplating any resumption of sitting as members are not only an assault on our democracy but an insurrection against the state, being an unabashed contempt of Court.

The APC accepted for the sake of democracy and peaceful coexistence, the judgment of the Supreme Court in good fate and appealed to our members not to embark on anything to the contrary which they obeyed.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Supreme Court judgement which awarded victory to the Governor is personal to him and has no multiplier or spill-over effect on anyone already sacked. This is moreover that there was no case pertaining to the National and State Assembly Elections before the Supreme Court. The orbiter dictum as made by Justice Okoro concerning the fate of the sacked lawmakers cannot be said to be having any force of law

The Appeal Court judgment, which sacked the 16 PDP State House of Assembly members and all its National Assembly members, has a stamp of finality which cannot be upturned by any Court in the land in line with Section 246 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Just as we have accepted, as true democrats, the decision of the Supreme Court, the PDP has no option than to accept the fate that has befallen them and wait for the next election circle. We call on all arms of security agencies in the state to up the ante to handle any illegal acts as the Plateau State House of Assembly resumes sitting tomorrow 23rd January, 2023.

Plateau State, which is standing on a very delicate security tripod following so many upheavals which have consumed thousands of unsuspecting lives, cannot afford this very avoidable threat and legislative onslaught, the APC warned.

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Bewildered by a recent surge in insecurity, President Bola Tinubu summoned the Service Chiefs to a meeting last Tuesday. It has become a ritual, sickening and knee-jerk response by all presidents, which normally leads to nothing. This President should change course and pursue the struggle against insecurity to a logical end, and the police reform he initiated last October, become moored to the praxis of federalism.

At the end of the Nigeria Police Council conclave, which he chaired in October last year, he set up a Constitutional Review Committee to carry out comprehensive police reform. Lapses in the Constitution that encumber reforms; coordination among security agencies; alignment of technology with manpower resources, and other initiatives germane to strengthening policing are the terms of reference for the team. Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who participated in the meeting, shockingly revealed that the Nigeria Police Force has not had any meaningful reform since 1891.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Geidam; Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC), and a former Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase; and Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, who is also chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), constitute the committees membership.

The President has reasons to be flummoxed. Under his nose in the Federal Capital Territory, a family of six, comprising female siblings and their father, were kidnapped a few days ago. A lawyer, Oladosu Folorunso Ariyo has just cried out for help from professional colleagues, as kidnappers cloaked in military regalia, stormed an Abuja estate where he lives, and took away his four children and wife on 7 January. Sadly, the criminals have killed the first born, Michelle, to draw home their anger for not receiving the N60 million ransom being demanded from grieve-stricken Ariyo. The N7 million he has raised was flatly rejected.

These tales of sadism and horrifying security spectacles in the seat of power speak volumes about the lot of Nigerians without even a modicum of security protection. The gunmen invasion of Barikin Ladi and Bokkos in Plateau State during the Christmas festivities and wanton massacre of 163 people in 25 communities, alongside the torching of houses in well-coordinated and simultaneous assaults, fits into this ugly narrative. The death toll rose to 198 by 28 December. Tallies of violent attacks and their concomitant loss of lives in the seven months of Tinubus presidency are so revolting that they should jolt him into acting differently from his predecessors.

A new police system that tinkers with the present structure is destined to fail. Before now, the president had mooted the idea of increasing its numerical strength, said to be over 300,000. But the challenge is much bigger. The contradiction between a federation, which the 1999 Constitution, as amended, says Nigeria is in Section 2 (2) and its imposition of a unitary or single policing on the country in Section 214, must be resolved now. It is standing logic on its head. Insecurity will continue to grab headlines and Tinubu will continue to be embarrassed by these as long as large swathes of Nigerias territory remain under the control of bands of criminals  kidnappers, bandits, armed robbers, killer-herdsmen, secessionists, Boko Haram and ISWAP.

To redeem the country from this quagmire, the 2014 National Political Reform Conference had recommended devolving policing after its painstaking deliberations. This implies the creation of state police across the 36 states of the federation, in addition to enabling community policing, the National Border Force, Coast Guards and placing the control of the unaccounted for, and often embezzled security votes under the State Security Council of each state. Nigerians had applauded the proposal.

Incredibly, however, former President Goodluck Jonathan who initiated the 2014 conference, and his successor, Muhammadu Buhari, lacked the political will to implement the recommendations of the report in spite of the stranglehold of insecurity on Nigerians. Buhari, a retired general, whose three-point agenda included tackling security challenges in the country, embraced equivocation, lamentation and sabre-rattling tightly throughout his eight years in office. He had told a Niger State delegation led by its then governor, Sani Bello, who came to him to bemoan the frightening security situation in their state that the level of insecurity being experienced was surprising. We have to be harder on them If we dont secure the country, we will not be able to manage the economy properly. Yes, he spoke forthrightly, but failed to act.

Therefore, Tinubu has to change gear. He should dust off the report of that 2014 conference and implement its proposals. A former Inspector General of Police, Gambo Jimeta, chaired the Committee and its salient recommendations on national security, just as retired senior military officers, jurists, Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and other eminent Nigerians had their imprints on the report, after they weighed the provisions of the Constitution and all the statutes necessary for the country to chart a new direction.

The president cannot re-invent the wheel of policing in a federation. There are 18,000 police services in the US, comprising those at the federal, state, district, community and different organisational levels  all working with the common goal of keeping the society safer. Even when breaches occur, Prussian efficiency is displayed in bringing the felons to book. Germany has 22 police forces, while there are 45 of them in the United Kingdom, which is not even a federation. A raft of policing promotes efficiency, effectiveness, professionalism and training tailored to peculiar needs of areas, since every security lapse is local.

Following the current security unease in the FCT, the Inspector General, Kayode Egbetokun, has set up a Special Intervention Squad (SIS) for the area, which he plans to replicate in all the states in due course. Tinubu should not be deceived with this cosmetic response. We have seen it before. What became of the Special Anti-robbery Squad (SARS), with its feral and murderous binge that triggered the national revolt of #ENDSARS of 2020, should inform a rethink.

The Nigeria Police Force as presently constituted is corrupt, through and through, evident in the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) survey in 2019, which ranked it as the most corrupt public institution in Nigeria. Road blocks across the country exist just for collecting bribes from motorists, for which many who resist are killed. Recruitment into the Force is a racket, which has allowed questionable characters or armed robbers to find their ways into the police. These aberrations denude the police of professionalism and the capacity to protect citizens. Public trust is of paramount importance in policing. The NPF, regrettably, grossly lacks it.

A Police Force committed to its statutory duty of being in charge of internal security, could not have struggled with the Police Service Commission when chaired by a former Inspector General, Musiliu Smith, for years, over whose responsibility it was to recruit 10,000 personnel with which to start Buharis promised community policing that never was. That duty was statutory for the PSC. A legal challenge that ensued from this seeming scandal reached the Court of Appeal.

In the decade to 2018, the 36 states used over N2 trillion to fund the police, according to the NGF. Governors as the chief security officers of their states, desperate for law and order to prevail, procured Toyota Hilux vehicles for patrol, communication gadgets and even provided funds for operations. Without results, it was like pouring water into a sinking hole as insecurity steadily mounted. So petrifying was the situation that the NGF chairman and governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari, volunteered to resign in 2019 if that would help to restore peace in his troubled state. The current NGF should, therefore, support state policing to abate the total collapse of security in the country.

Nigeria needs pragmatic, intelligence-driven, well trained, equipped and technology-led policing in each state. Territories in the North-east freed from Boko Haram control, require to be held through effective policing. Otherwise, military engagements will come to naught once they move out of rescued communities, as insurgents return to wreck more havoc there.

Tinubu should desist from acting the 2018 script of Buhari, when he ordered a batch of 1,000 troops to Zamfara State, to be as ruthless as humanly possible in fighting bandits. Yet, his regime could not trump that evil situation in the state and the North-west region.

Mr President, to save the security situation in the country from further deterioration, the time for state, community and other levels of policing has come!

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The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, will on Thursday declare open a two-day strategic management meeting of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

The retreat, scheduled for the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, will focus on the theme Reimagining Tax Administration for Equity and Economic Growth.

Upon assuming office, the Chairman of the FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, championed a radical transformation in the values of the agency, aiming to make it more FIRS taxpayer-centric and a well-suited revenue-collecting agency.

The visionary approach led to a significant overhaul of the agencys organisational and management structures. The Service under him has also been re-engineering the tax processes to support taxpayers in fulfilling their civil obligations.

A statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman, Dare Adekanmbi said the Finance Minister will deliver a goodwill message during the retreat. He will also join Mr Adedeji to unveil the new direction to directors and other key members of the FIRS management team.

The objective of the retreat, according to the statement, is to ensure that all directors are fully informed and aligned with the strategic direction of the Executive Chairman of FIRS, solidifying a foundation for unified action.

The FIRS statement explained the aim of the retreat further: We will also be engaging critical external stakeholders in government, professional bodies and the organised private sector about the renewed and refocused strategy of the FIRS.

At the end of the retreat, participants are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the new organisational structure and its implications for their roles.

We will leave with a shared vision for a modernised tax administration that is both equitable and growth-oriented, inspiring confidence and excitement for the future, the statement added.

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A band of terrorists, reported to be made up of over 100 men, on Sunday stormed Tashar Nagulle, a community in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State, and abducted 31 residents.

Those abducted include women, children and men, a resident told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday.

Batsari has seen a resurgence in terrorist activities in recent weeks, featuring twin attacks on security formations last week. In one of the attacks, two mobile police officers were killed by the terrorists who burnt down two vehicles of the Nigerian Army in the other attack.

PREMIUM TIMES spoke to two residents of Tashar Nagulle, both of whom demanded anonymity for security reasons.

A religious leader said the attackers surrounded the community before some of them entered through the main exit that leads to the main road.

I was sitting outside with some of my friends around 9 p.m. when we first heard gunshots. We stood up to run from the place but the terrorists shouted that we should stop because they were security agents sent to protect us, the religious leader told PREMIUM TIMES on the phone.

He said the terrorists left their motorcycles outside the community and trekked in.

They knew that when they said they were policemen or soldiers sent to protect us, we would believe them. And that was what happened, he said.

According to the source, residents began gathering at the community centre, not knowing that the intruders, some of whom wore military camouflage, were not soldiers.

Another resident said he didnt stop running despite what the terrorists said because he felt unsure of what to do.

I ran into my house and went straight under the bed to hide. Normally, when terrorists come into our communities, we hide under the bed because its safer than running into the bush, to avoid running into some of the terrorists stationed outside, he said.

The religious leader said after the terrorists had circled them, they told them to follow them into the forest. That was when I knew they were not security agents.

He said he slipped out of the group and ran back into his house.

As of now (Monday morning), we have counted 31 people who have been taken. Some of them were abducted when they ran outside into the bush because several terrorists were stationed outside the community, he said.

He added that the divisional police officer in Batsari and some vigilante group members arrived in the community very late because the terrorists had left already.

The police spokesperson in the state, Abubakar  Sadik Aliyu, could not be reached for comment. An SMS sent to him has not been responded to.

Several communities in North-west Nigeria have become vulnerable to terrorist attacks in recent years.

Thousands of people have been killed while about a million have been displaced in Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi and Sokoto states.

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Ailing Nigerian lecturer, Inih Ebong, who, for over two decades, has been in a legal battle over the unlawful termination of his appointment, has won at the Court of Appeal, Calabar, against the University of Uyo.

Mr Ebong had been diagnosed with cardiac failure in October 2020 and was dying before a Nigerian billionaire, Femi Otedola, stepped in to take care of his medical treatment, following a PREMIUM TIMES report.

Being out of a job for several years, the lecturer could hardly feed himself and his family, let alone take care of his medical treatment.

Apparently, to get other potential employers to avoid Mr Ebong to compound his woes, the University of Uyo published a disclaimer on him in some national dailies, shortly after his sack in 2002.

The Court of Appeal, Calabar, on 21 July 2023, dismissed an appeal filed by the University of Uyo against the January 2020 judgement of the National Industrial Court which ordered the university to reinstate Mr Ebong and pay him N10 million damages, in addition to his accumulated salaries and allowances, according to a court document exclusively obtained by PREMIUM TIMES.

The University of Uyo, which filed the appeal in 2022, requested an extension of time for it to file an appeal against the judgement of the industrial court.

The Court of Appeal had earlier, in 2022, struck out the universitys appeal after the university withdrew it having realised that it failed to obtain the leave of the appellate court as required by law, before filing it.

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Applicants are caught up by the provision of Order 11 Rule 6, which is to the effect that an appeal once withdrawn under this order, with or without the order of the court, shall be deemed to have been dismissed, Justice Hamma Barka said in a judgement on the universitys application for extension of time, which he delivered on behalf of a three-man panel of judges.

From my humble view, and from the foregoing, to grant a further extension of time to the Applicants will not only be tantamount to extending the frontiers of inadvertence of counsel but as held by the Supreme Court, a misconception of the law. I firmly believe that this application does not deserve the sympathy of this court, and accordingly refuse to exercise my discretion in his favour, and accordingly refuse to grant the application. It is hereby dismissed, the judge ruled.

Apart from Mr Barka, other members of the panel were Justices Balkisu Aliyu and Folasade Ojo.

Fidelis Iteshi was the counsel to the University of Uyo in the case while the lecturer, Mr Ebong, was represented by Nse Williams.

Ebongs sin?

Mr Ebong was an associate professor in the Department of Theatre Arts, University of Uyo, when his appointment was unlawfully terminated in 2002. Akpan Ekpo and Peter Effiong were the vice-chancellor and registrar of the institution respectively at the time.

Four successive vice-chancellors of the university have refused to reinstate him, despite an unbroken string of legal victories.

Mr Ebong, before his sack, had a running battle with Messrs Ekpo and Effiong who saw him as a thorn in their flesh for speaking up regularly against alleged maladministration and corruption in the school.

The 73-year-old lecturer, weighed down by hardship, illness, and emotional trauma, appeared tired to continue with the battle against the University of Uyo, and has sought a peaceful settlement of the matter with the school. He wrote a letter twice to the university authorities who rebuffed him.

The Universitys position is that the matter is sub-judice and as such, it is advisable that parties await the decision of the court (of appeal), Aniediabasi Udofia, the then registrar of the university, said in a 6 April 2021 letter to Mr Ebong.

Mr Williams, counsel to Mr Ebong, on 13 September 2023, a month after the judgement of the Court of Appeal, wrote a letter to the vice-chancellor of the university, demanding the implementation of the judgement of the National Industrial Court.

The Court of Appeal has now decided, and it is final. All that we demand of you now is to within 14 days from today, make good your above-quoted words and position (stated by the then registrar, Udofia) by obeying and complying with every provision of the said judgement and order of the National Industrial Court, Uyo, dated 23 January 2020, the lawyer wrote in the letter.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the University of Uyo, last year, had filed yet another appeal at the Court of Appeal, Calabar, requesting the court to give an order for a stay of action on the judgement of the National Industrial Court.

The matter could not be heard on a scheduled date  28 October 2023  because the court did not sit. Since then the court has yet to give a new date for it.

My body is breaking down

When PREMIUM TIMES spoke on the phone with Mr Ebong on Monday, he sounded weak and could barely speak. He wanted our reporter to speak with the wife, instead.

I was at the hospital today, he muttered. My body is breaking down. I am weak.

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The Anambra Road and Traffic Maintenance Agency has warned commercial transport operators against turning road shoulders in the state to loading parks.

The Managing Director of the agency, Emeka Okonkwo, who gave the warning in Awka, said the agency had directed motorists to make use of the nearest motor parks provided by the government to avoid the wrath of the law.

Mr Okonkwo decried the nuisance caused by transporters in Onitsha, especially those operating at the Onitsha-Owerri end of Upper Iweka Road, saying that the government would no longer condone such illegality.

He said the agency had installed signs with the inscription, No Loading, Use the Parks conspicuous at strategic places as part of the awareness and effort to restore sanity to the affected sections of the roads.

Mr Okonkwo said For a long time, bus drivers have turned the stretch of the road into motor parks while assigned parks are left empty.

This trend has to stop as the agency is working round the clock to align with Mr Governors dream for a livable, smart, and prosperous homeland.

We took time to clearly inspect and properly mark the parks for transport companies whose vehicles load in the axis, he said.

Mr Okonkwo said the agency also cleared the Eze-Iweka Junction that leads to Awada Obosi where commercial tricycle operators obstruct motorists and pedestrians.

He said all tricycle operators are to henceforth load and offload in the park provided, away from the junction.

He said some buses going to Agbor and Asaba which obstruct vehicular movement at the Onitsha end of the Niger Bridge were impounded for remaining defiant after several warnings and numerous road signs.

It is very important to note that after proper enlightenment, the agency would impound defaulters without an option of fine.

Vehicles would be impounded for seven days for first offenders and 14 days subsequently, he said.

(NAN)

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Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has requested the UK authorities to intervene in his trial and continued detention at the facility of the Nigerias State Security Service (SSS).

Since his re-arrest in July 2021, Mr Kanu, a British-Nigerian citizen, has been detained at the SSS facility. He is facing terrorism trial at a Federal High Court, Abuja.

In a letter dated 18 January and addressed to the House of Commons, the lower chamber of the UK parliament, the IPOB leader appealed to the lawmakers to prevail on the UK Government to intervene in his matter in Nigeria.

Aloy Ejimakor, Mr Kanus special counsel, who signed the letter, said he had the instruction of the IPOB leader to do so.

Mr Kanu, in the letter to the parliament, detailed how he was first arrested, his initial trial, and how he fled Nigeria after Nigerian security forces invaded his home town in Abia State, Nigerias South-east.

Prayers

The IPOB leader, in the letter, presented some prayers which he pleaded with the parliament to consider for possible implementation.

Urgently intervene in His Majestys (UK) Government, strongly urging it to promptly make demands on the Government of Nigeria to unconditional release of Mr Kanu from detention and repatriate him to the United Kingdom and to levy sanctions against the Government of Nigeria if it fails to comply within a reasonable time, the letter read in part.

Mr Kanu argued in the letter that his extraordinary rendition to Nigeria from Kenya inherently destroys every prospect for a fair trial in a jurisdiction that levied the rendition.

He cited previous court rulings in the UK to support his position.

The IPOB leader said, in the alternative, the parliament should promptly intervene with His Majestys Government, strongly urging it to make binding proposals to the Government of Nigeria to agree to conduct his trial in the UK instead of Nigeria.

He argued that since charges preferred against him by the Nigerian government were alleged to have been committed by him in the UK, there are legal reasons for which he should be tried in the UK, rather than in Nigeria.

Mr Kanu mentioned his British-Nigerian citizenship, human rights concerns, existing Nigerian-British diplomatic considerations, security and safety, fair trial and prospect of political interference as some of the reasons for which he should be tried in the UK.

Mr Kanu said, if conducting his trial in UK will be impossible, the parliament may alternatively intervene with His Majestys Government, urging it to make binding proposal to the Nigerian government to agree to conduct his trial in a mutually agreed neutral third country, other than Nigeria and the UK, as was done in the Lockerbie trial of Libyan nationals.

Why the request for assistance

The letter said the decision to make the request to the parliament was propelled by undue levity with which the UK government has so far handled Mr Kanus matter.

It said the IPOB leader believes that he has not been accorded the full legal and diplomatic protections he is entitled to as a bonafide British subject.

READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanu decries delayed transmission of his case file to Abuja court

The letter indicated that Mr Ejimakor, Mr Kanus legal team in the UK, and the IPOB leaders US-based international counsel, Bruce Fein, are all available to personally appear before the parliament whenever it deems necessary in the course of considering the petition.

Background

Mr Kanu, the IPOB leader, was first arrested in 2015 under the administration of the then Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Court of Appeal, Abuja, on 13 October 2022, held that the IPOB leader was extra-ordinarily renditioned to Nigeria and that the action was a flagrant violation of the countrys extradition treaty and also a breach of his fundamental human rights.

The court, therefore, struck out the terrorism charges filed against Mr Kanu by the Nigerian government and ordered his release from the SSS facility.

But the government refused to release the IPOB leader, insisting that he (Kanu) could be unavailable in subsequent court proceedings if released and that his release would cause insecurity in the South-east, where he comes from.

The government, through the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, later appealed the court ruling and subsequently obtained an order staying the execution of the court judgment at the Supreme Court.

Delivering judgment on the appeal on 15 December, the Supreme Court reversed the acquittal granted to Mr Kanu by the lower court and consequently ordered continuation of his trial at the Federal High Court Abuja.

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HOUSTON, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Axiom Space's Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), the first all-European commercial astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), successfully reached their destination and will begin their planned 14-day mission on the orbiting laboratory. After seamlessly docking to the ISS, the Ax-3 crewmembers, Commander Michael Lopez-Alegria of the U.S. and Spain, Pilot Walter Villadei of the Italian Air Force, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravc of Turkiye, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt of Sweden and the European Space Agency (ESA), entered the space station at 7:15 a.m. ET on Jan. 20.

The Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3) crew arrives on the International Space Station (ISS). Ax-3 crewmembers, Commander Michael Lopez-Alegria of the U.S. and Spain, Pilot Walter Villadei of the Italian Air Force, Mission Specialist Alper Gezeravci of Turkiye, and Mission Specialist Marcus Wandt of Sweden and the European Space Agency (ESA), are welcomed aboard the orbiting laboratory by astronauts of ISS Expedition 70.

As a symbolic gesture, Commander Lopez-Alegria ceremoniously adorned his fellow crewmates with the official astronaut pin, marking the crew's formal commencement of becoming astronauts. Lopez-Alegria presented his crewmates with their official astronaut pins, declaring Gezeravc to be the 676th and Wandt the 677th to go to space. Villadei became number 666 during his Virgin Galactic flight on Jun. 29, 2023.

During the Ax-3 welcome ceremony, ESA astronaut and ISS Expedition 70 Commander Andreas Mogensen said, "This is an incredibly exciting time for human spaceflight with the third private mission, which is allowing many more countries to participate in the scientific research and technology development that we do onboard this orbiting laboratory. We have doubled the number of nationalities onboard the space station, going from four to eight. I am also very proud as a European to welcome four other Europeans. I think this the first time in the history of the space station that we have five Europeans onboard at the same time."

The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, carrying the Ax-3 astronauts, embarked on its voyage to space atop a Falcon 9 rocket at 4:49 p.m. ET on Jan. 18 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

During their time aboard the space station, the Ax-3 crew will conduct a diverse array of over 30 experiments spanning various fields in science and technology. These endeavors aim to propel advancements in human spaceflight and contribute to enhancing life on our home planet. Ax-3 stands as the third among multiple proposed Axiom Space human spaceflight missions, laying the groundwork for Axiom Station, which is set to become the world's first commercial space station.

The mission is scheduled to conclude on Feb. 3 with undocking, culminating in a splashdown off the coast of Florida aboard the Dragon spacecraft.

Visit AxiomSpace.com for more news.

CONTACT: media@axiomspace.com

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Members of the Azerbaijani Parliament Tural Ganjaliyev and Sevil Mikayilova held discussions with Tomas Zdechovsky, Member of the European Parliament, within the Baku Network platform, Trend reports.

They dived into various topics, starting with the current developments in Central Asia-EU relations. They went on to discuss the crucial role of the South Caucasus in advancing these relations, explored the possibilities for Azerbaijani-EU ties, and touched upon the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Sevil Mikayilova noted that the cooperation between Central Asia and the EU cannot be considered without the South Caucasus.

We believe that the constructive role of the South Caucasus in relations between Central Asia and the EU will ultimately bring real benefits to all participants of the process. We have built very fruitful relations with Central Asia. Now we are in a process of building good communication lines to support the Middle Corridor, which is also a very much supported project by the EU. Central Asia with its abundant resources can be of real use for the EU economies. And this linkage will, of course, cross through South Caucasus, and Azerbaijan here is in the centerpiece, she said.

MEP Zdechovsky agreed that Azerbaijan is not just a key player in Central Asia-EU relations, it is actually a strategic partner for Europe itself.

Azerbaijan has significant potential in various fields, such as the chemical industry and natural resources. However, I believe the greatest potential lies in the tourism sector. We have the opportunity to triple our economic relations. Azerbaijan is a strategic partner for several EU countries, and Azerbaijani-Czech relations are also highly productive. The EU aims for stable, long-term cooperation with Azerbaijan. Notably, Azerbaijan ranked first when we sought closer cooperation in gas supplies. It is crucial for us to establish a long-term agreement with Azerbaijan, emphasizing the importance of stability, he said.

View the complete episode of the program below:
HONG KONG, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zetrix, a leading layer-1 public blockchain platform by MY E.G. Services Berhad ("MYEG"), Web3Labs Hong Kong, a Web3 development and investment powerhouse, and venture capital firm Summer Capital, today announced a strategic collaboration to propel Hong Kong's ("HK") Web3 ambitions and establish Zetrix as the preferred blockchain infrastructure for HK government-aligned applications.

Zetrix, Web3Labs & Summer Capital to Accelerate HK's Web3 Roadmap Initiatives

Zetrix expands its current mission of government and enterprise-focused Web3 development in alignment with HK's Fintech Promotion Roadmap, in addition to significant partnerships announced with key stakeholders in China, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Web3Labs leverages its network of over 500 partners throughout the Web3 ecosystem including government bodies, institutions, investors, exchanges and media outlets to foster additional growth and innovation facilitated by the city state.

Summer Capital counts several market-leading startups within their portfolio, including Asia's leading licensed virtual asset service provider Hashkey Group, and SEBA Bank, which received approval-in-principle licenses from the Securities and Futures Commission to offer virtual asset services in HK.

Leveraging on the partners' complementary strengths, this partnership shall:

Enhance Zetrix as the preferred Layer-1 platform for blockchain applications aligned with the HK's government's Web3 vision and catalysed by further collaborations with industry and business communities.

Catalyse HK's and the region's financial systems and technologically forward corporate players to realise structured and concurrent industry trails of innovative blockchain use cases such as Real World Asset (RWA), stablecoin issuance and financial instruments tokenisation to enable localised and international services, which can be connected seamlessly and securely via Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) and Verifiable Credentials (VC).

Launch a dedicated Global Accelerator Program to incubate and nurture promising startups building applications on the Zetrix platform. This program will provide mentorship, technical support, and access to funding opportunities, empowering budding entrepreneurs to contribute to HK's Web3 landscape and serve a global audience.

Zetrix is also assessing strategic investment in Web3Labs, gaining access to its extensive network of Web3 experts and ecosystem partners. Such a move will further bolster Web3Labs' ability to support promising Global Web3 startups via HK's progressive Virtual Assets regulations.

"We are thrilled to partner with Web3Labs, a trusted leader in the Web3 space," said Wong Thean Soon, co-founder of Zetrix. "This collaboration will add immense value to Zetrix and provide invaluable support to the burgeoning Web3 ecosystem with key stakeholders in HK. Zetrix and its international supernode on China's national public blockchain, Xinghuo BIF is the natural choice for Web3 decentralised applications (DApps) that serve the objectives of HK Special Administrative Region (SAR) to be a global crypto hub."

Caspar Wong, CEO of Web3Labs, added, "We are excited to welcome Zetrix as a strategic partner. Their commitment to aligning with the HK vision and fostering innovation makes them the perfect platform for building impactful Web3 solutions. By combining our capabilities and focusing on government and enterprise-aligned applications, both parties aim to foster a thriving Web3 ecosystem that benefits businesses, government entities, and citizens alike."

Henry Chen, Head of Fintech and Blockchain of Summer Capital, said, "We are glad to connect and join forces with Web3Labs and Zetrix to build an enterprise-grade ecosystem on blockchain infrastructure in HK. We have observed tremendous progress and business development for Web3 here in HK for the past few years. Bringing Zetrix to HK marks our strong commitment to embracing the market and its opportunities."

About Zetrix

Zetrix is a layer-1 public blockchain that facilitates smart contracts and delivers privacy, security and scalability. Zetrix's cryptographic infrastructure can be introduced to multiple industries to connect governments, businesses and their citizens to a global blockchain-based economy.

Developed by MY E.G. Services Bhd, the cross-border and cross-chain integration with China's national public blockchain Xinghuo BIF enables Zetrix to serve as a blockchain gateway that facilitates global trade by deploying critical building blocks for Web3 services such as Blockchain-based Identifiers (BID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC).

About Web3Labs

Web3Labs aims to respond to the policy statement from the HKSAR Government on the development of virtual assets in Hong Kong. Through on-the-ground support, investment acceleration, technical collaborations, and compliance assistance, Web3Labs is dedicated to helping global Web3 companies establish their presence in Hong Kong. Its goal is to create a one-stop gateway for Web3 entrepreneurs. As of the end of July 2023, Web3Labs has provided consultation or support for nearly 1,000 Web3 enterprises in terms of advice or on-the-ground services.

In the face of global technological competition, Web3Labs strives to stay at the forefront of the market, understand the needs and challenges of entrepreneurs, and provide a legitimate, comprehensive, professional, and in-depth entrepreneurial environment. Web3Labs aims to foster national and even world-class unicorns, contributing to the steady advancement of the industry.

About Summer Capital

Summer Capital is a leading investment management and advisory firm with a presence in Hong Kong, mainland China and Southeast Asia dedicated to investing in early and growth stage companies in "new economy" sectors such as fintech, blockchain infrastructure and application, consumption technology and healthcare. Summer Ventures, an affiliate of Summer Capital Limited, is an institutional venture fund dedicated to promote and invest in "real world application" of blockchain technology and infrastructure, leveraging Summer Capital's past experience of investments in blockchain and fintech industries since 2018.

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NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Climate Partners (ACP), the innovative philanthropic investment organization recently launched at COP28 , today celebrated the first close of the Southeast Asia Clean Energy Fund II (SEACEF II), managed by Clime Capital . Allied Climate Partners' mission is to increase the number of bankable, climate-related projects and businesses in emerging economies to create significant environmental, economic, and social impact. ACP is the anchor junior equity investor in SEACEF II.

"The lack of bankable, climate-related projects and businesses is a major barrier to accelerating the climate transition and green economic growth opportunity in Southeast Asia," said Allied Climate Partners CEO Ahmed Saeed . "Managed by Clime Capital, SEACEF II will provide the catalytic capital required for early-stage developers and businesses to deliver renewable energy, energy efficiency, and grid solutions across the region. ACP's intention is to catalyze additional funds like SEACEF II, that are targeting the project development financing gap at scale in emerging markets and developing economies around the world."

Mason Wallick, Chief Executive Officer, and co-founder of Clime Capital, said, "SEACEF II is the first blended investment fund in Southeast Asia to provide early-stage high-risk capital to support promising businesses accelerating the region's low-carbon transition. Allied Climate Partners' commitment to this fund contributes an essential element to the fund's unique blended model, enabling us to address the specific needs of our target projects."

Allied Climate Partners is proud to be the anchor junior equity investor in SEACEF II, providing SEACEF II with catalytic, first-loss, capital and working alongside Clime Capital to mobilize other investors to participate. ACP, alongside other first close investors, and Clime worked together to scale SEACEF II from its original proof of concept into a larger platform, with the shared goal of increasing the number of investible, scaled climate projects and companies across Southeast Asia. ACP seeks to further the climate and financial goals of Clime Capital and SEACEF II not only by providing first-loss capital but also through value-added support and targeted strategic partnerships. ACP believes that a dearth of risk bearing equity is a key bottleneck for the decarbonization of developing economies.

Allied Climate Partners was incubated and developed by Three Cairns Group, a mission-driven philanthropic investment organization. Mark Gallogly, Chair of ACP, and Co-founder of Three Cairns Group (3CG) said "We started Allied Climate Partners in order to aggregate catalytic, first-loss capital for funds like SEACEF II that can make a real difference on environmental, economic, and social impact in emerging economy regions like Southeast Asia. We are excited by this model of public-private-philanthropic collaboration, look forward to what Clime and SEACEF II can accomplish, and are eager to expand this to other fund managers and economies."

SEACEF II builds on Clime Capital's first fund, SEACEF I, which was anchored by, Sea Change Foundation International (Sea Change), a philanthropic organization focused on climate change mitigation, and a core partner in ACP. Sea Change worked closely with 3CG in establishing ACP. With SEACEF I, Clime Capital built a portfolio of twelve early-stage investments in climate-related projects and businesses, and successfully catalyzed significant follow-on funding from private sector investors. One of SEACEF I's early investments in Levanta Renewables, for example, was acquired by Actis in August 2022.

SEACEF II includes senior equity from the private sector, development finance institutions (DFIs), and multilateral development banks (MDBs), as well as catalytic junior equity from ACP and other parties. This first close of SEACEF II included senior equity participation from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group; FMO, the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank; British International Investment (BII); Norfund; Swedfund; and Arnold Ventures. Junior equity investors included the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), Australian Development Investments (ADI), ImpactAssets, and ACP.

Across multiple geographic regions and multiple fund managers, ACP and its partners are initially looking to aggregate an $825 million investment platform, catalyzed by approximately $235 million in philanthropically-backed junior capital. As with SEACEF II, ACP anticipates providing catalytic, junior equity to initial investment managers in Africa, the Caribbean & Central America, and India. Like SEACEF II, senior equity is expected to be provided by MDBs, DFIs, and private sector actors. ACP would anticipate that these managers will ultimately mobilize approximately $11 billion upon full deployment for the construction of bankable, climate-related projects, generating a 47x capital mobilization multiplier on ACP's junior, risk-oriented philanthropic capital, and a 14x multiplier on the aggregate investment platform. By proving this model, ACP aims to induce commercially-oriented public and private sector investors to provide capital where they likely would not otherwise.

A crucial part of ACP's strategy is to leverage philanthropic capital to accelerate the flow of third party capital to climate-related projects in emerging economies. At COP28, ACP entered into strategic partnerships with a number of leading MDBs and DFIs, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group; U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC); British International Investment (BII), the UK's DFI and impact investor; the African Development Bank (AfDB); Proparco, a subsidiary of Agence Francaise de Developpement Group; FMO, the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank; and IDB Invest, a member of the Inter-American Development Bank Group. ACP also signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Singapore-headquartered global investment company Temasek, and IFC to increase the number of bankable climate projects in Asia.

About Allied Climate Partners:

Allied Climate Partners (ACP) is a philanthropic investment organization with a mission to accelerate the climate transition and improve livelihoods in emerging economies by increasing the flow of capital to bankable, climate-related projects and businesses. ACP selects regional investment managers in emerging economies and supports them with first-loss capital, expertise, and the mandate to address a critical financing gap at the early, risk-oriented stages of the development process for climate-related projects and asset-oriented businesses. Without this support, many projects and businesses struggle to attract the necessary capital to achieve their climate-related goals. By proving this model, ACP aims to induce commercially-oriented public and private sector investors to invest where they likely would not otherwise.

About Clime Capital:

Clime Capital Management Pte. Ltd. (Clime Capital) is a Singapore-headquartered fund management company registered with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Clime Capital is the manager of SEACEF I and SEACEF II. The Clime Capital team comprises senior professionals with deep Southeast Asian market experience in clean energy investments and developments. The team brings a diversified skill set in early-stage project funding and development, investment and portfolio management, project finance, design and engineering, operations, and environmental safeguards. Clime Capital has an on-the-ground presence in Vietnam, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore.

About Three Cairns Group:

Three Cairns Group is a mission-driven investment and philanthropic firm focused on the climate crisis, founded by Lise Strickler and Mark Gallogly. Three Cairns Group incubated and developed Allied Climate Partners. Three Cairns Group's goal is to develop and support cross-sector initiatives to accelerate the clean energy transition and drive transformative, equitable progress through three primary strategies: investments in innovating and scaling climate solutions; philanthropy supporting a pipeline of innovative leaders, projects, and organizations to catalyze equitable climate solutions; and incubation of projects to fill gaps at the intersection of climate, finance, and people, and develop organizations that can drive climate action at scale.

About Sea Change Foundation International:

Sea Change Foundation International operates as an international philanthropic counterpart to Sea Change Foundation. Sea Change Foundation and Sea Change Foundation International share a common strategy: to provide philanthropic support to nonprofit organizations focused on climate change mitigation and clean energy policy. Nat Simons and Laura Baxter-Simons are co-directors of Sea Change Foundation International.

No parties quoted above have received compensation for providing statements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy any securities or service. This press release contains forward looking statements which may or may not be realized and are contingent on uncertain events.

SOURCE Allied Climate Partners
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Attorney Zulu Ali and Attorney Whitney Ali are listed as two of the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), Law and Justice Edition (https://www.mipad.org/files/MIPAD-ANNOUNCEMENT-2022-Online-Version.pdf). The Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD), is a global civil society initiative in support of the International Decade for People of African Descent, proclaimed by United Nation's General Assembly resolution 68/237, to be observed from 2015 to 2024. MIPAD identifies high achievers of African descent in public and private sectors from all around the world as a progressive network of relevant actors to join together in the spirit of recognition, justice and development.

Attorney Whitney Ali & Attorney Zulu Ali

Attorney Zulu Ali and his daughter, Attorney Whitney Ali, are owners and partners of the Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP ( zulualilaw.com ), making the firm one of the largest Black family-owned law firms in California; and the largest Black-owned in the Inland Empire, which comprises the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino.

The Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP has been named as one of the top 10 law firms by Attorney and Practice Magazine; and its founder, Attorney Zulu Ali, has also been named top 100 lawyers by the National Black Lawyers and National Trial Lawyers; a Top 10 Lawyer by the American Academy of Trial Attorneys, American Jurist Institute, Attorney & Practice Magazine; Rue Ratings Best Lawyer in America; and Litigator of the Year by the American Institute of Trial Lawyers. Attorney Zulu Ali is also a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., serving as its general counsel.

In 2007, inspired by civil rights attorneys Charles Hamilton Houston, Thurgood Marshall, and Avon Williams, Jr., who used the law and courts as a vehicle to make a change and protect all people against injustice, Attorney Zulu Ali opened the Law Offices of Zulu Ali with a focus on representing persons accused of crimes and seeking criminal justice, immigrants, victims of discrimination, persons seeking civil justice in state and federal courts throughout the United States; and defendants and victims at the international criminal courts at The Hague, Netherlands and the African Court of Human Rights in Tanzania. Attorney Zulu Ali and the law firm takes on extremely difficult cases and matters that provide an opportunity to make changes in the law, through the courts, when the law is unjust.

"It is always nice to be recognized for your work. We face immense scrutiny from courts and others for challenging the system. I am deeply inspired by the late great civil rights attorney Avon Williams who was jailed more than once for not kowtowing to racist courts in the defense of his clients. Being in this fight with my daughter by my side ensures this type of advocacy spirit that was established by great black pioneers of the legal system continues," Attorney Zulu Ali adds.

PRESS CONTACT:

Rosa Nunez, Executive Producer

Justice Watch Radio

Tel: 951-782-8722

[email protected]

SOURCE Law Offices of Zulu Ali & Associates, LLP
NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Perchwell, the premier real estate technology platform, is setting a new industry benchmark with the launch of a RESO-certified Web API in New York City. In collaboration with the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) and the Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO), Perchwell has upgraded NYC's property data model from its legacy RETS-based structure to the more modern and interoperable RESO-based Web API. The migration of NYC's property data to uniform RESO standards not only ensures richer and higher quality data, but also makes these data more readily accessible to a far broader audience.

With NYC's transition, Perchwell has delivered a first-of-its-kind end-to-end RESO compliant listing service data solution. As of today, all REBNY Residential Brokerage agents and technology vendors are required to submit their data into the Residential Listing Service (RLS)NYC's listing service run by REBNYvia an API adhering to the OData specification and enforcing the RESO Data Dictionary. The adoption of a RESO and OData compliant platform provides a much-needed common format to enable technology providers to create and update property data across markets and systems, reducing friction and improving industry participant scalability. In doing so, the RLS is fostering an ever-more favorable ecosystem for the development of next-generation technology products, which in turn delivers increasing value to REBNY's agents.

Perchwell is expanding access to real estate data and analytics. Post this

"Agents need easier access to more data, consolidated from a growing number of sources, to draw out insights to help their clients make real estate decisions that can influence well-being and wealth for generations," commented Brendan Fairbanks, Perchwell CEO. "The adoption of the uniform data standards espoused by RESO is an essential step in facilitating this."

Legacy systems often lack standardization, reliability, and organized taxonomy, which is a challenge to agents scaling their business practices. Clunky, patchwork systems can be error-prone, causing confusion and inaccuracies that ultimately cost agents time and resources. Perchwell built an operating system for the modern and evolving agent, removing barriers through technology and innovation throughout the real estate industry.

Why hasn't this happened already?

Integrating and standardizing data from disparate sources for use across unconnected systems is a significant challenge. With more and more data becoming available, connecting it in real-time to make it useful for agents requires rethinking and restructuring longstanding data models.

"The value extracted from data depends largely on its quality and relevance. Well-organized and standardized data can significantly enhance decision-making for an agent and their client. The Real Estate Standards Organization (RESO) helps our industry, and companies like Perchwell, in tackling the staggering volume of data, across increasing sources, to extract quality, accuracy and integration capabilities," commented Sam DeBord, CEO of RESO.

A listing servicesuch as Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) or the RLScreates equal access and opportunity to all properties, in cities and towns across America, through the consolidation and standardization of listings and sales information for all providers of real estate services. MLS data distribution helps facilitate real estate transactions and therefore expands home ownership opportunities.

A crucial step forward

"This is a significant time in our industry, where the value of agent services and the role the MLS plays in supporting agents and brokers is being questioned," noted Fairbanks. "Perchwell is a data-driven technology partner transforming MLSs from mere data repositories into powerful property-centric advisory platforms enabling agents to elevate their services and demonstrate their value."

About Perchwell:

Perchwell is the premier data and workflow technology platform for the residential real estate industry. Perchwell's product offering includes a suite of data management, market research, and client collaboration tools for MLSs, brokers, and agents. For more information, please visit perchwell.com .

About RESO:

RESO provides the foundation for streamlined real estate technology through the creation and certification of international standards. Member organizations include MLSs, brokerages, REALTOR associations and technology partners serving more than one million real estate professionals all over the world. | reso.org

Media Contact:

Christine Jacobson

[email protected]

SOURCE Perchwell
BOSTON, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Burns & Levinson LLP has been named a 2023 Cannabis Practice Group of the Year by Law360 for its exceptional track record in the cannabis industry over the past year. Burns & Levinson was one of only five firms nationwide singled out by Law360 for this prestigious award.

Burns & Levinson was one of the first major Boston corporate law firms to develop a dedicated cannabis business practice over 10 years ago to advise cannabis businesses, entrepreneurs and investors across the country. The firm has unrivaled experience in advising on cannabis and hemp/CBD business formation and corporate structuring, capital raises, M&A, investment structuring, lending for lenders and borrowers, regulatory matters, workouts, receiverships, ABCs, and overall business issues affecting the fast-growing cannabis industry. The firm is also among the top law firms in the country handling M&A and high-level corporate and financing deals in the private and public markets in the cannabis market.

Major 2023 projects include steering the first ever receivership of a cannabis company in Massachusetts to satisfy a $22 million plus default under a secured loan agreement for client Teneo Funds SPVi LLC; securing a receivership of The Source for client Green Ops Group in efforts to collect over $21 million from a matured promissory note; leading Sweed's merger with Leaf Trade; originating and closing Needham Bank's $40 million refinancing of AYR Wellness; and launching five cannabis banking and lending programs across the country.

"We are honored to be recognized for our work helping our cannabis clients succeed in what have been challenging times for this industry resulting from market over saturation and lack of reasonable capital. Despite the difficult realities in the industry over the past, we continue to be at forefront of finding solutions for our clients  including guiding them through never-before-seen distressed situations without the benefit of bankruptcy protections  to help them find ways to navigate these turbulent times and capitalize on the myriad possibilities that exist in this new market," said Frank A. Segall, Founder and Chair of the Cannabis Business & Law Advisory Group at Burns & Levinson and a Law360 2022 Cannabis MVP of the Year and an inaugural National Law Journal "Cannabis Trailblazer" among many other industry awards.

"We are very proud of our accomplishments last year and are thrilled to receive this award. There are so many pressing issues confronting the cannabis industry, and we have one of the best and most experienced legal teams in the industry to help clients not only survive, but thrive," added Scott Moskol, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of Burns & Levinson's Cannabis Business & Law Advisory Group and an inaugural National Law Journal "Cannabis Trailblazer."

About Burns & Levinson LLP

At Burns & Levinson, we provide high-level, client-centric and results-oriented legal services to our regional, national and international clients. We are a full-service law firm with over 125 lawyers in Boston, Providence and London. Our areas of expertise include: business/finance, business litigation, cannabis, divorce/family law, venture capital/emerging companies, employment, estate planning, government investigations, intellectual property, M&A/private equity, probate/trust litigation, and real estate. We partner with our clients to solve their business and personal legal issues in a collaborative, creative and cost-effective way. For more information, visit Burns & Levinson at www.burnslev.com .



Contact:



Amy Blumenthal Kristen Weller

Blumenthal & Associates Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer

(617) 879-1511 (617) 345-3555

[email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE Burns & Levinson LLP
Consider these bed bug prevention tips to avoid bringing these stealthy pests home

ATLANTA, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Windy City is taking up residence as one of the worst cities for bed bugs taking the #1 spot on Orkin's Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List for the fourth year in a row. Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia hold onto the top three spots, ranking first, second and third, respectively for cities with most bed bugs. Greensboro, N.C. saw the largest jump this year, moving up twenty-fife spots into the Top Twenty, with Milwaukee (#25) moving up the list by fifteen and Tampa (#31) moving up by ten.

Bed bugs are typically 3/16 inch long and red to dark brown in color.

Amid the Paris Bed Bug craze, travelers are more concerned than ever with avoiding these stealthy pests. As Americans look towards travel in 2024 it is critical to know how to identify and thoroughly check for bed bugs in hotel rooms (both internationally and domestically) while being careful not to bring the pests home with them.

The bed bug cities list is based on treatment data from the metro areas where Orkin performed the most bed bug treatments from Dec. 1, 2022  Nov. 30, 2023. The ranking includes both residential and commercial treatments.

What cities have the most bed bugs?

Chicago New York Philadelphia Cleveland - Akron , OH Los Angeles Detroit Washington, D.C. (+2) Indianapolis (-1) Charlotte (+5) Champaign, IL (+1) Columbus, OH (-1) Cincinnati (+1) Atlanta (+3) Grand Rapids, MI (-2) Denver Baltimore (-8) Richmond, VA (+9) Greensboro, N.C. (+25) St. Louis (+6) Youngstown (+7) Pittsburgh (-3) Dallas-Ft. Worth (-5) Flint, MI (-2) Raleigh-Durham (-4) Milwaukee (+15) Charleston, W.V. (-7) Greenville, SC (-3) Norfolk, VA (-5) Davenport (+8) Nashville (+3) Tampa (+10) Toledo (+6) Dayton, OH (+1) Knoxville (-4) Las Vegas (new to list) Omaha, NE (-4) South Bend, IN (-9) Houston (+6) Cedar Rapids , MI (-8) Ft. Wayne, IN (-5) San Francisco (-19) Buffalo, NY (-13) Harrisburg (-7) Seattle (-5) Miami Orlando (+1) Minneapolis (new to list) Oklahoma City (new to list) Louisville , KY Lexington, KY (-4)

Bed bugs are typically 3/16 inch long, red to dark brown in color and are mostly nocturnal insects that come out of hiding to take blood meals from sleeping humans. These pests are hematophagous, which means blood is their only food source. Clinging to items such as luggage, purses and other personal belongings, bed bugs can travel from place to place with ease.

"Bed bugs are extremely resilient, making them difficult to control. As travel plans ramp up, it's important that Americans know how to protect themselves through pest identification and proper control," said Ben Hottel, Orkin entomologist. "While bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, they are excellent at hiding. Involving a trained professional at the sight of a bed bug introduction is recommended."

Known for rapid population growth, female bed bugs can deposit one to five eggs a day and may lay 200 to 500 eggs in their lifetime. They can survive for several months while waiting for their next blood meal, so they're likely to emerge the moment a food source, e.g., humans or animals, becomes available.

"While the bed bug infestations in Paris have made travelers more conscious of the pests in hotels while traveling internationally, it is also important to take precautions at home," said Hottel. "Second-hand items such as clothing and furniture are also common bed bug hiding places, allowing pests an opportunity to hitch a ride home with new consumers. Examining any new items before they enter your home will help to catch a bed bug infestation sooner, rather than later."

Here are proactive tips Orkin recommends for homeowners and travelers to prevent bed bugs:

At Home:

Inspect your home for signs of bed bugs regularly. Check the places where bed bugs hide during the day, including mattress tags and seams, and behind baseboards, headboards, electrical outlets and picture frames. Inspect when you move in, after a trip, when a service worker visits or after guests stay overnight.

Decrease clutter around your home to make it easier to spot bed bugs on your own or during professional inspections.

Examine all secondhand furniture before bringing it inside your home.

During travel, remember the acronym S.L.E.E.P. to inspect for bed bugs:

S urvey the hotel room for signs of an infestation. Be on the lookout for tiny, ink-colored stains on mattress seams, in soft furniture and behind headboards.

urvey the hotel room for signs of an infestation. Be on the lookout for tiny, ink-colored stains on mattress seams, in soft furniture and behind headboards. L ift and look in bed bug hiding spots: the mattress, box spring and other furniture, as well as behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper.

ift and look in bed bug hiding spots: the mattress, box spring and other furniture, as well as behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper. E levate luggage away from the bed and wall. The safest places are in the bathroom or on counters.

levate luggage away from the bed and wall. The safest places are in the bathroom or on counters. E xamine your luggage carefully while repacking and once you return home from a trip. Always store luggage away from the bed.

xamine your luggage carefully while repacking and once you return home from a trip. Always store luggage away from the bed. P lace all dryer-safe clothing from your luggage in the dryer for at least 30-45 minutes at the highest setting after you return home.

With nearly 125 years of experience with bed bugs and state-of-the-art tools and products, Orkin is well-equipped to assess your bed bug problem, offer trainings for short-staffed hospitality teams and mount a strategic response to rid your home of the pest and provide maximum protection.

For more information about bed bug prevention and bed bug control, visit Orkin.com.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects. Orkin has 358 owned and operated branch offices and 47 franchises in the U.S. The company also has international franchises and subsidiaries in Canada, Europe, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, the Mediterranean, Africa, and Mexico. For more than 120 years, Orkin has been committed to protecting public health by helping prevent and control pests as well as educating consumers on the potential health risks posed by these pests. As such, Orkin Pros always put the customer first and approach every opportunity with the utmost professionalism and the knowledge and skillset to solve any pest problem. Since 2020, Orkin has partnered with the American Red Cross to inform the public about the health threats of mosquitoes while boosting our country's blood supply through monetary contributions and blood donations. Orkin is committed to hiring the world's best to help protect the places where we live, work and play. Learn more about careers at Orkin here. Visit Orkin.com for additional information. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc. (NYSE: ROL). Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Orkin, LLC
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CNLABS, a global leader in IPv6 Testing and Consulting has successfully tested and certified Versa Operating System (VOS) for USGv6 program from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

USGv6 CNLABS

United States Federal Agencies use the USGv6 program for strategic planning and acquisition policies. The program requires OEMs and product vendors to test their products for USGv6-r1 specifications at accredited test labs. VOS was tested and certified for the NIST USGv6r1 Profile to meet stringent requirements of USGv6-r1 specifications. Tested products include CSG and CSX appliances for SD-WAN / SD-LAN and Cloud Gateways from Versa Networks.

"We extend our gratitude to CNLABS for their exceptional support throughout the USGv6-r1 Certification process for Versa VOS. The seamless collaboration and proactive assistance from the CNLABS team were instrumental in achieving our USGv6 and IPv6 Ready Logo certification goals. We appreciate the expertise and commitment of the CNLABS team, ensuring a successful testing experience," said Shiva Shenoy, Vice President of Engineering at Versa Networks.

The certification of this product marks a significant step forward, demonstrating CNLABS' expertise and dedication to facilitate seamless testing processes for industry innovators to drive global IPv6-only deployments. With laboratories in USA, Australia, and India, CNLABS continues to play a pivotal role in supporting product vendors on their journey towards USGv6-r1 compliance.

"We are thrilled to announce the certification of our first product under NIST's USGv6-r1 Program. This achievement reaffirms CNLABS' commitment to pioneering excellence in IPv6 testing services, and we take pride in contributing to the advancement of IPv6 deployments globally. Our team's dedicated efforts, coupled with the collaborative spirit of our partners, have played a crucial role in this success. We look forward to continued innovation with new partners and setting new benchmarks for excellence in the realm of next-gen networking and cybersecurity testing," said Krishna Kumar Lahoti, Director at CNLABS, President of ANZ IPv6 Forum, and Vice Chair of APAC IPv6 Council.

CNLABS is an independent, vendor-neutral test lab offering industry certifications, regulatory compliance testing, interoperability and third-party certification testing for product vendors, enterprises, and service providers in the domains of Cybersecurity, IPv6 and SDN-NFV. The lab is accredited to NABL (ILAC) and meets the globally recognized ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard that assures quality and competency of the lab, personnel, and test results. Visit https://www.cnlabsglobal.com for more information.

Media Contact:

Jayaprakash Kumar

CEO  CNLABS

[email protected]

+1 (408) 8767506

SOURCE CNLABS
Growth in the data center construction market is the key factor driving the market growth

NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The flywheel energy storage market is expected to grow by USD 200.38 million from 2022 to 2027, according to Technavio. In addition, the growth momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 9.13% during the forecast period. North America accounts for 30% of the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Increased investments and state-level initiatives in North America have propelled the flywheel energy storage market's expansion. This growth is driven by rising demand for advanced grid storage facilities, supported by Smart Grid Technology, Distributed Energy Resources, Carbon Footprint Reduction, Demand Response, Regenerative Braking Systems, and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS). Favorable government policies, the imperative to curb CO2 emissions, and the need to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources further fuel this demand. Market Trends, Investment and Funding, Regulatory Framework, and Technological Advancements are key factors shaping this market's trajectory.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Flywheel Energy Storage Market 2023-2027

To find a preview of the market overviews, market drivers, opportunities, and potentials request a free sample report

The flywheel energy storage market from 2023 to 2027 features a fragmented landscape with numerous global and regional players, including category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified vendors. The global off-grid flywheel energy storage market is expected to grow rapidly during the forecast period due to the Growth in the data center construction market. Hence, the competition among companies is expected to intensify during the forecast. The report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market companies. Active Power Solutions Ltd., Amber Kinetics Inc., Beacon Power LLC, Calnetix Technologies LLC, ENERGIESTRO, FREQCON GmbH, Langley Holdings Plc, Omnes Energy, Oxto Ltd., POWERTHRU, PUNCH Flybrid, Revterra, Rotonix USA Inc., Schneider Electric SE, Schwungrad Energie, Siemens AG, Stantec Inc., STORNETIC GmbH, The Boeing Co., and VYCON Inc.

Flywheel energy storage market Key Offerings are;

Active Power Solutions Ltd.: The company offers flywheel energy storage systems such as Cleansource Plus SMS, Cleansource Plus MMS, and Cleansource Plus UPS.

Amber Kinetics Inc: The company offers flywheel energy storage systems for ancillary services, energy arbitarge, and energy firming.

Based on Type, The market share growth by the composite rims segment is significant during the forecast period. Composite rims are pivotal components in Flywheel Energy Storage Systems (FESS), often crafted from carbon-fiber composites for their exceptional strength and lightweight properties. These materials enable the rims to achieve high rotational speeds and efficient energy storage. The utilization of composite rims in FESS offers numerous advantages, including high efficiency, rapid response times, and minimal maintenance requirements. This technology is significant in Kinetic Energy Storage, where factors like Rotational Speed, Energy Density, High-Speed Bearings, Vacuum Enclosure, Composite Materials, Magnetic Levitation, Energy Efficiency, Power Management, Sustainable Energy, Renewable Energy Integration, Frequency Regulation, Grid Stabilization, Energy Arbitrage, Backup Power, Peak Shaving, Energy Storage Capacity, Lifecycle Cost, Energy Conversion Efficiency, and Industrial Energy Storage are essential in driving its effectiveness and adoption. Hence, such factors are fuelling the growth of this segment which in turn drives the market growth during the forecast period.

To know additional highlights and key points on various market segments and their impact in coming years, Get the Free Sample Report.

Imperative Insights on the following aspects:

What was the size of the global flywheel energy storage market by value?

What will be the size of the global flywheel energy storage market in 2027?

How has the industry perform over last 5 years?

What factor are affecting the strength of competition in the global flywheel energy storage market?

What main segments make up the global flywheel energy storage market?

Related Reports:

The silicon anode battery market is forecasted to increase by USD 243.19 million, at a CAGR of 35.96% between 2023 and 2028.

The sodium ion battery market size is forecast to increase by USD 414.4 million and at a CAGR of 17.33% between 2023 and 2028.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Type

Market Segmentation by Technology

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
PHOENIX, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Integro Bank and Integro Wealth Advisors is pleased to announce the January 24th CEO Club event with speaker Nivan Jaleeli, Director at BlackRock. Mr. Jaleeli has worked in the investment profession for 20+ years and joined BlackRock in 2014.

Integro Wealth Advisors Thomas J. Inserra, CEO & President, Integro Bank

Integro Wealth Advisors is committed to enhancing clients' financial well-being and offers exceptional investment services, financial guidance, and education. Integro Wealth Advisors distinguishes itself by delivering a diverse range of wealth management solutions and services designed to empower individuals to make informed decisions across every facet of their financial lives.

The event, "Navigating the Economic Landscape for 2024; The State of The Economy & The Current Market Trends," will provide business leaders with key data points and strategic information to help them start the new year with a strong business outlook.

Thomas J. Inserra, CEO and Founder at Integro Bank stated, "This is a wonderful opportunity for business owners and key leaders to learn about the 2024 economic outlook and meet with other business leaders focused on growing their company and preparing for an exciting new year."

To learn the time, and location and to RSVP for the CEO Club Event:

https://integrobank-20681670.hs-sites.com/ceo-club-jan-24-2024

About Integro Bank:

Integro Bank is an FDIC-insured bank based in Phoenix, Arizona (USA). Our proprietary INTEGRO360 SM consultative approach and CEO Club are designed to help small businesses grow and maximize employment. Why? Because employment lifts people up and transforms lives. Visit www.Integro.Bank to learn more.

Media Contact:

Brandon Price, Marketing at [email protected] or (602) 325-9431

SOURCE Integro Bank
NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The intrapartum monitoring devices market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.36% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to increase by USD 970.11 million. The high demand for maternal care devices is a key factor driving the market growth. Maternal care devices are in high demand in both developed and middle-income countries due to their high birth rates, which necessitate improved fetal and neonatal care. These devices are utilized to assess health status and address preventable issues related to pregnancy and childbirth, such as severe bleeding, infection, and high blood pressure. Progress in the maternal care devices industry has resulted in the creation of portable and wireless products, along with the integration of digital health solutions like telemedicine, mHealth, and remote monitoring. These innovations aim to enhance healthcare accessibility in developing economies to address the growing demand for improved services.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Intrapartum Monitoring Devices Market 2023-2027

To understand more about the intrapartum monitoring devices market, request a Free sample report

Vendors : 15+, Including Analogic Corp., Becton Dickinson and Co., Bionet Co. Ltd., Cardinal Health Inc., EDAN Instruments Inc., General Electric Co., General Meditech Inc., Halma Plc, Heal Force Biomeditech Holdings Ltd., Koninklijke Philips NV, Mediana Co. Ltd., Medtronic Plc, Mindchild Medical Inc., Nemo Healthcare BV, Siemens AG, Sino Hero ( Shenzhen ) Bio Medical Electronics Co. Ltd., Stryker Corp., The Cooper Companies Inc., TOITU CO. Ltd., and Ultrasound Technologies Ltd., among others

: 15+, Including Analogic Corp., and Co., Bionet Co. Ltd., Cardinal Health Inc., EDAN Instruments Inc., General Electric Co., General Meditech Inc., Halma Plc, Heal Force Biomeditech Holdings Ltd., Koninklijke Philips NV, Mediana Co. Ltd., Medtronic Plc, Mindchild Medical Inc., Nemo Healthcare BV, Siemens AG, ( ) Bio Medical Electronics Co. Ltd., Stryker Corp., The Cooper Companies Inc., TOITU CO. Ltd., and Ultrasound Technologies Ltd., among others Coverage: Parent market analysis; key drivers, major trends, and challenges; customer and vendor landscape; vendor product insights and recent developments; key vendors; and market positioning of vendors

Parent market analysis; key drivers, major trends, and challenges; customer and vendor landscape; vendor product insights and recent developments; key vendors; and market positioning of vendors Segments: End-user (Hospitals, Maternity clinics/obstetrics clinics, and Others), Product (Electrodes and Monitors), and Geography ( North America , Europe , Asia , and Rest of World (ROW))

Technological advances in intrapartum monitoring devices are major trends in the market. However, stringent regulatory requirements are a significant challenge restricting market growth.

For further details on market dynamics on the impact on the market download free sample report!

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Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

Growth of the Intrapartum Monitoring Devices Market industry across North America , Europe , Asia , and the Rest of the World (ROW)

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Related Reports

The anesthesia monitoring devices market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.67% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 1,108.53 million.

The vital signs monitoring devices market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.13% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 4.79 billion.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Application

Market Segmentation by Component

Market Segmentation by Geography, and region wise

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. A delegation of the Kuwaiti National Assembly headed by the head of the Kuwait-Azerbaijan inter-parliamentary friendship group Mohammed Haif Al-Muteiri visited Alley of Honor in Baku today, Trend reports.

The guests honored the memory of the heroes of the Motherland who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence of Azerbaijan.

During the visit, the delegation was accompanied by the head of the working group on inter-parliamentary relations with Kuwait Vahid Ahmedov, and other officials.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Suit filed by daycare injury attorneys at The Button Law Firm claims Miss Bloomingdale's Academy violated child-neglect and daycare safety laws

IRVING, Texas, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The mother of a 2-year-old girl is now suing Miss Bloomingdale's Academy in Irving, claiming her daughter was neglected and her life put in danger by the daycare center in October 2022. The suit states the little girl was not properly supervised by caregivers, making her able to walk out of the classroom, open a back door that led to the playground, and exit the facility without anyone at the daycare center noticing she was gone for an extended amount of time. Only when her father arrived to pick her up at the end of the day did daycare workers realize the little girl was missing, according to the complaint.

The playground at Miss Bloomingdales Academy is located on a busy road, just steps away from the Trinity Elm Fork River. A lawsuit states a 2-year-old girl was was neglected and her life put in danger by the daycare center when she was able to walk out of the classroom, open a back door that led to the playground, and exit the facility without anyone at the daycare center noticing she was gone for an extended amount of time.

Video footage showed the girl crying and unsuccessfully trying to pull the daycare center's metal door open, then yelling as she attempted to get back into the center. The father later found the toddler when he heard loud banging and screaming coming from outside of Miss Bloomingdale's Academy. Daycare workers could not explain how the toddler ended up outside or how long she was left unsupervised, according to the suit.

"I just want answers on how it was possible that Miss Bloomingdale's Academy allowed my daughter to wander outside and did not even notice she was missing for several hours," says Veronica Reynolds, mother of the 2-year-old girl. "That whole situation has traumatized my young daughter and myself. As a single working mom, I trusted this daycare to keep her safe."

The playground at Miss Bloomingdale's Academy is located on a busy road, just steps away from the Trinity Elm Fork River. One section of a damaged playground fence had an opening, large enough for a toddler to fit through and potentially drown in the river, get hit by oncoming traffic, or get abducted, according to the suit.

A state investigation into the incident found Miss Bloomingdale's Academy in violation of several daycare safety laws put in place to prevent neglect incidents like what the little girl experienced. For example, the center failed to conduct a proper headcount of the children, document the children being transferred from the playground to each classroom at the facility, properly supervise the children in its care, and maintain playground equipment and fencing.

"Plain and simple: Miss Bloomingdale's ignored multiple state safety laws that neglected and endangered the life of an innocent toddler," says Texas daycare injury attorney Russell Button of The Button Law Firm, who represents Reynolds and her daughter. "Closely watching children is a basic skill of child care. Hard-working parents like our client should not have to fear for their child's safety at a local daycare center and we are thankful nothing catastrophic happened to her."

The case is Veronica Reynolds, Individually and next friend of C.R., a minor child, vs. Miss Bloomingdale's Academy, Inc., Cause No. CC-24-00284-E in Dallas County, Texas. A copy of the complaint can be accessed here.

About The Button Law Firm

The Button Law Firm (buttonlawfirm.com) is a Texas-based personal injury law firm that advocates for children and their families in meaningful litigation to make local communities safer. The firm focuses on daycare and child-related injuries such as abuse and neglect cases, bottle warmer burns, traumatic brain injuries, and catastrophic injuries. With attorneys in Dallas, Houston, and Midland, The Button Law Firm helps families move forward across the Lone Star State.

SOURCE The Button Law Firm
ALZpath's Blood-Based Test Delivers Accuracy Comparable to More Invasive and Expensive

CSF-Based Tests, Reducing the Need for Confirmatory Testing By ~80%

CARLSBAD, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ALZpath, Inc. (ALZpath), a leader in Alzheimer's diagnostics, announced new findings published online today in JAMA Neurology showing that its proprietary blood-based biomarker assay for phosphorylated tau at residue 217 (pTau217) delivers high diagnostic accuracy and consistency in identifying amyloid and tau in the brain. The article, "Diagnostic Accuracy of a Plasma Phosphorylated Tau 217 Immunoassay for Alzheimer's Disease Pathology," was authored by Dr. Nicholas Ashton and colleagues from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers are considered one of the most accurate tests of Alzheimer's pathology available, in addition to positron emission tomography (PET). However, CSF testing is significantly more invasive than blood tests, requiring a painful spinal tap procedure, at a cost typically 2-3 times higher than blood-based testing, and is more difficult to administer at the scale that will be required with the availability of a new generation of disease-modifying treatments.

ALZpath is a leading provider of innovative diagnostic solutions for Alzheimer's disease. With the novel ALZpath pTau217 assay and test, ALZpath is transforming Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and monitoring, providing accurate and accessible tools for researchers and healthcare professionals worldwide. The study employed the ALZpath pTau217 ultra-sensitive immunoassay, developed on the Single molecule array (SimoaTM) platform in blood, and evaluated the performance of the ALZpath pTau217 assay in three independent clinical studies as part of an international collaboration between researchers in Sweden, Spain, Canada and the US. The combined studies included 786 participants.

The ALZpath pTau217 assay showed high diagnostic accuracy in identifying elevated amyloid (AUC, 0.92-0.96; 95%CI 0.89-0.99) and tau (AUC, 0.93-0.97; 95%CI 0.84-0.99) in the brain across all cohorts. These accuracies were significantly higher than other plasma biomarker combinations and equivalent to CSF biomarkers. The classification of individuals with abnormal amyloid using a binary or two-cut off model yielded reproducible results across the three independent studies in this publication. Longitudinally, ALZpath's pTau217 test in blood showed an annual increase in individuals with amyloid plaques, with the highest increase observed in those who also had tau pathology.

"This is an instrumental finding in blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's, paving the way for the clinical use of the ALZpath pTau 217 assay," stated Professors Kaj Blennow and Henrik Zetterberg from the University of Gothenburg, co-authors on the publication. "This robust assay is already used in multiple labs around the globe."

"ALZpath's pTau217 test can help healthcare providers determine the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain - a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease," said Dr. Andreas Jeromin, ALZpath Chief Scientific Officer. "This diagnostic capability offers increasingly vital aid in medical management and treatment decisions for Alzheimer's, especially as new disease-modifying treatments become more accessible."

The ALZpath pTau217 assay will be available for clinical use as ALZpath Dx later this month and is part of a broader neuro biomarker portfolio in development. The ALZpath pTau217 test will also be commercially available on other research and diagnostic platforms in support of global accessibility and scalability.

About ALZpath

ALZpath is a leading provider of innovative diagnostic solutions for Alzheimer's disease. With the novel ALZpath pTau217 Assay, ALZpath is transforming Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and monitoring, providing accurate and accessible tools for researchers and healthcare professionals worldwide. To learn more about the company visit https://alzpath.bio/.

The company acknowledges generous support from, Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation/ Gates Ventures. For more information www.alzpath.bio

COMPANY CONTACT:

Andreas Jeromin, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer

[email protected]





MEDIA CONTACT:

Nechama Rosengarten, FINN Partners

[email protected]

SOURCE ALZpath, Inc.
23 Years of Real Estate Finance and Lending a Perfect Pairing with The Caroline K. Huo Group's Reputation for Highest Levels of Client Service

BURLINGAME, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today The Caroline K. Huo Group announced the appointment of Rob DeContreras as Executive Director of Growth. Rob DeContreras brings 23 years of deep experience in real estate finance and lending to the company. A real estate enthusiast at heart, this partnership leverages his expertise and passion for the industry in a perfect pairing to further enhance The Caroline K. Huo Group's exemplary reputation for the highest levels of personalized client service.

The Caroline K. Huo Group announced the appointment of Rob DeContreras as Executive Director of Growth

"Rob is well-known for his wealth of experience and success during 23 years in the real estate finance and lending industry. With his stellar track record both locally and nationally, he will be an invaluable addition to the team. In this unique hybrid role as Agent and Executive Director of Growth, his strengths will serve to further underscore The Caroline K. Huo Group's premier reputation as best in class," said founder and Lead Agent Caroline K. Huo. "Rob is the perfect addition to our team that is built on concierge service and deep expertise in Bay Area real estate development and sales."

"This new career path is the culmination of a lifelong passion for real estate that fueled my professional journey. In this role, I will leverage the relationships I have built over two decades in this community. As a former client of Caroline K. Huo Group, I personally know the elite level of concierge service with my own family's real estate transactions. It was this rare level of professionalism that drew me to partnering with this group. I am thrilled to bring my personal and professional experiences to the table and make my lifetime dream come true," said Rob DeContreras.

Rob DeContreras is excited to bring his extensive experience, unwavering passion for real estate, and proven leadership skills to the Caroline K. Huo Group to partner in helping the group and their clients succeed. Throughout his career, Rob has a proven track record of building and leading top-performing teams, consistently exceeding goals and achieving impressive results. He has built and led top-performing teams at Washington Mutual, Wells Fargo, and PNC, consistently ranking among the top 5 in the country. In 2022, his team at Wells Fargo funded over $750 million in loan volume, while assisting over 600 families with home ownership. Most recently while at PNC, his team Ranked #3 in the country, showcasing continued ability to excel in new environments during a challenging lending landscape.

ABOUT

The Caroline K. Huo Group is an industry-leading luxury real estate agency known for its deep market insight and personalized 'high-touch', concierge real estate services. Founded in 2004, the Caroline K Huo Group has solidified its stance among the San Francisco Bay Area's top luxury real estate firms  serving 300+ clients with $100 million in sales annually. The Caroline K. Huo Group has consistently ranked in the top 1% of San Mateo County and the top 1.5% nationwide. With 60+ years of collective real estate sales and development, with a comprehensive background of Fortune 500, business development, and technology experience the Caroline K. Huo Group is poised to continue its upward trajectory in one of the world's most dynamic real estate markets. With The Caroline K Huo Group's vast experience in real estate, they are especially attuned to the market and able to deliver a priceless advantage to their clients.

Kyle Henry

Marketing Director

371706@email4pr.com

(650) 727-1308

SOURCE The Caroline K. Huo Group
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaskela Law LLC announces that it is investigating Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE: ADM) ("ADM" or the "Company") on behalf of long-term ADM investors.

On January 21, 2024, ADM disclosed that it had placed "Vikram Luthar, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President, on administrative leave, effective immediately." The Company further disclosed that "Mr. Luthar's leave is pending an ongoing investigation being conducted by outside counsel for ADM and the Board's Audit Committee regarding certain accounting practices and procedures with respect to ADM's Nutrition reporting segment, including as related to certain intersegment transactions. ADM's investigation was initiated in response to its receipt of a voluntary document request by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)."

Following this news, shares of ADM's stock declined over $15.00 per share, or over 20% in value, during intraday trading on January 22, 2024, erasing over three years of increased market value for the Company's shares and billions of dollars of market capitalization.

Long-term ADM shareholders are encouraged to contact Kaskela Law LLC (D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. or Adrienne Bell, Esq.) at (484) 229  0750, or by email ([email protected] / [email protected]) or online at https://kaskelalaw.com/cases/archer-daniels-midland/, for additional information about this investigation and their legal rights and options.

Kaskela Law LLC exclusively represents investors in securities fraud, corporate governance, and merger & acquisition litigation. For additional information about Kaskela Law LLC please visit www.kaskelalaw.com.

CONTACT:

KASKELA LAW LLC

D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq.

Adrienne Bell, Esq.

18 Campus Blvd., Suite 100

Newtown Square, PA 19073

(484) 229  0750

www.kaskelalaw.com

This notice may constitute attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions.

SOURCE Kaskela Law LLC
BRIGHTON, Colo., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SkyDefense, LLC of Brighton, Colorado today announced their counter-UAS interceptor weapon system which can neutralize a swarm of hostile drones.

The SkyDefense C2 command-and-control ''VRAM," short for "Visual Realtime Airspace Monitoring" integrates a counter-UAS interceptor weapon with a rugged four-wheel drive EV which can launch and communicate remotely with one or more (6.5 ft. long x 4.5 ft. wingspan) CobraJets.

SkyDefense Counter-UAS Weapon System

The battery-powered VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) stealthy, carbon fiber CobraJet is equipped with all-weather electric duct fan motors and an AI flight controller with electro-optical and infrared cameras. CobraJet is highly maneuverable utilizing thrust vectoring and armed with sixteen 25mm VIPER air-to-air rockets capable of disabling a swarm of Group 1, 2 or 3 drones. Each CobraJet can be recharged and rearmed quickly for a new mission.

CobraJet uses on-board computer vision to detect and track its targets and can intercept enemy drones before they can reach critical facilities or personnel. CobraJets can engage these enemy drones, day or night, at long distances, and at higher speeds 200 mph (320 kph). CobraJets can function effectively with other C2 systems and can take-off and land from ground or naval platforms.

"We have armed our CobraJets with our VIPER air-to-air weapons because they are low-collateral and offer the most effective means of neutralizing a swarm of fast-moving kamikaze drones at a fraction of the cost of current C-UAS interceptors," states Nick Verini, President, SkyDefense, LLC.

The CobraJets can autonomously navigate utilizing inertial guidance and/or GPS towards a designated area or target providing real-time video to the VRAM operator. CobraJet can also operate effectively in an electronic warfare environment utilizing on-board intelligence, when necessary.

"The world is presently under threat from attack drones armed with high explosives, capable of damaging oil refineries, oil tankers, cargo ships, military bases and ships, government buildings, power plants, electrical grids, and factories. VRAM and our CobraJets in combination with our future 45mm surface-to-air precision guided missiles will provide operators with a cost-effective, multi-layer air defense system. SkyDefense is the future of intelligent counter-UAS weapon technology," states Mr. Verini.

For further details visit www.skydefensellc.com or call Nick Verini at +1 (720) 339-4972.

SOURCE SkyDefense
Dr. Abdelqader is considered an expert in colorectal and esophageal cancer screening, as well as advanced endoscopy and surgical endoscopy. He notes that he focuses on procedures and interventions related to these areas of specialization. Dr. Abdelhai Abdelqader is a practicing gastroenterologist based in Sarasota, FL. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the digestive system and the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach, liver, and pancreas disorders. He performs procedures such as upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, cancer ablative procedures, incisionless fundoplication for reflux, incisionless weight loss procedures, endoscopic suturing, and stents in the digestive tract. His expertise lies in esophageal and colorectal cancer screening, as well as advanced endoscopy and surgical endoscopy. He focuses on procedures and interventions related to these areas of specialization.

Dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest innovations in his field, Dr. Abdelqader is an avid consumer of medical journals and his favorite publication is "GIE" (Gastrointestinal Endoscopy), indicating his interest in his field's latest research and developments. A published practitioner, the doctor asserts that his mentors are Dr. Michel Kahaleh; Dr. Avik Sarkar; and Dr. John Nasr. When considering his extraordinary accomplishments, he believes the key to his success is practicing his philosophy to respond to his patients' calling, emphasizing patient-centered care. His future projections include the continuous provision of high-quality care to his patients.

Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys vacations in Spain and Costa Rica with his family, and playing sports. Dr. Abdelqader expresses gratitude to his parents and wife Leena for their love and support.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
MECHANICSBURG, Pa., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Pshtiwan A. Tahir is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his contributions to the Comprehensive Medical Care Field.

Dr. Tahir pursued higher education from Mosul Medical College at the University of Mosul in Iraq where he earned a Doctor of Medicine degree. He completed an internal medicine residency at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey and is currently affiliated with WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital; UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside; and WellSpan Waynesboro Hospital.

A board-certified internist, Dr. Tahir is an expert in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of diseases and illnesses in adult patients and specializes in providing comprehensive care and promoting overall well-being. The doctor is dedicated to providing the latest innovations in his field and is a member of several professional organizations including the American College of Physicians where he is a Fellow and is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

When considering his significant accomplishments, Dr. Tahir cites his expertise as a board-certified internist and dedication to providing comprehensive medical care to hospitalized adult patients as major milestones. The doctor would like to acknowledge his mother, Aisha Abdulla, for her support as well as the guidance and support of his mentor, Dr. Saba Hassan, MD.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
SAN ANTONIO, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Octavia D. Harris is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions as an Advocate for Women in Military Services.

Octavia D. Harris, a distinguished expert with over three decades of experience in employment integration for women within military services, has been awarded the Women's Memorial Certificate of Achievement in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the advancement of women in the armed forces.

Octavia D. Harris's illustrious career has been characterized by her unwavering commitment to empowering women within the military. She currently serves as a subcommittee leader for the United States Department of Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services. In this pivotal role, she is instrumental in exploring opportunities for women across various military fields, advising the secretary of defense, assessing challenges and productivity, and actively participating in outreach and recruitment endeavors.

With a national reach, Octavia D. Harris's expertise lies in outreach and employment integration. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences from National University (2001) and a Master of Science in Operations and Healthcare Management and Safety from the University of Arkansas (2007).

Octavia D. Harris is a prominent figure in various affiliations, including the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Systems and the United States Department of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee for Women and Children. She is deeply committed to supporting organizations like Support The Enlisted Project and the Military Women's Memorial foundation.

Throughout her illustrious career, Octavia D. Harris has received multiple prestigious awards that underscore her exceptional contributions to the field. Notable accolades include the Legion of Merit from the President of the United States in 2012, the San Diego Navy League Woman of the Year award from the Navy League of the United States in 2001, and the Woman of the Year award from San Diego County. However, one of her proudest achievements is her active involvement, leadership efforts, and accomplishments in driving congressional policy changes under the Deborah Sampson Act. These changes have had a profound impact on women's healthcare and programs.

Octavia D. Harris's remarkable journey in service to her country spans 30 years in the United States Navy. She has held various roles, including senior advisor to the commander for Amphibious Squadron One, human resource manager and lead detailer, command master chief of the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, and program manager for the Navy Medical Center in San Diego. Her extensive experience also includes serving as a command master chief of the USS Pinckney and holding positions at Kochurtrummer LLC.

As she looks to the future, Octavia D. Harris envisions expanding her role within the United States Department of Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, writing novels to share her experiences, and continuing to make a meaningful impact on women and children across the nation through her involvement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee for Women and Children.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
After being ranked among the Top 5 on the "Storage Providers and Integrators in 2023" report by BloombergNEF (BNEF) last month, Trina Storage continues its commendable position by being designated as a Tier 1 in Global Energy Storage Tier 1 List Q1 2024.

Marking the inaugural release of BNEF's Tier 1 energy storage list, Trina Storage emerged among numerous competitors, earning its place through the exceptional efficiency and reliability of its energy storage products, noteworthy global projects, and robust bankable support.

MUNICH, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Trina Storage , the leading global energy storage solution provider, proudly announces its inclusion in the esteemed BNEF Energy Storage Tier 1 List for the first quarter of 2024.

Energy storage manufacturers meeting BloombergNEF's Tier 1 criteria as of 1Q 2024

BNEF stands as a highly reputable industry research organization in the field of new energy, recognized globally for its credibility and expertise. BNEF's stringent criteria for Energy Storage Tier 1 recognition demand a brand to have supplied, or be firmly contracted to supply products to a minimum of six distinct projects over the last two years. Each project must exceed 1 megawatt or 1 megawatt-hour (whichever is higher) and must be owned by entities independent of the energy storage provider.

Trina Storage's achievement reflects its commitment to providing advanced energy storage solutions across a diverse range of projects globally. The company's success is underlined by its ability to meet the specific criteria set by BNEF, demonstrating excellence in product reliability and market relevance.

Trina Storage has strategically established a vertically integrated industrial chain, encompassing both upstream and downstream capabilities. The company has demonstrated full-stack research capabilities, ranging from the battery cell to the entire system, exemplified by the successful development of the 306Ah & 314Ah high-capacity cell with more than 10,000 lifecycles. Trina Storage has established production bases in Changzhou, Chuzhou, and Dafeng, creating a robust foundation for the development of intelligent factories. These facilities are characterized by stringent production control systems, proficient lean management capabilities, and advanced digital management systems.

"We are thrilled to be designated as a Tier 1 Energy Storage provider by BloombergNEF for Q1 2024," said Helena Li, Executive President at Trina Solar. "This recognition not only validates our technological prowess but also affirms our dedication to serving the energy storage needs of a wide array of projects worldwide."

SOURCE Trina Storage
AbbVie Inc., Amgen Inc., AstraZeneca Plc, Bausch Health Co Inc., Bayer AG, Bristol

Myers Squibb Co., Clovis Oncology, Eisai Co. Ltd., Eli Lilly and Co., Exelixis Inc., F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., LG Chem Ltd., Merck and Co. Inc., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sanofi SA, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Viatris Inc., and Xbrane Biopharma AB

NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors market is anticipated to grow by USD 10.40 billion, progressing at a CAGR of 7.76% during the forecast period. The strategic alliances formed regarding collaboration and licensing are notably driving market growth. These alliances facilitate the global co-development and commercialization of VEGF inhibitors. Co-development agreements leverage the technical expertise of both companies, enabling mutual support in the development and marketing of innovative drugs. Additionally, these agreements ensure sufficient funding for the involved companies and reduce individual liability costs in case of failures, making them more attractive for venture investments.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Inhibitors Market 2023-2027

Download a Free Sample Report

The market is witnessing a significant trend with the increasing popularity of combination therapies, marking a notable shift in healthcare preferences and treatment approaches among consumers and practitioners alike.

What benefits does the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors market report is going to provide?

Latest industry influencing trends and development scenario

Open up New Markets

To Seize powerful market opportunities

Key decision in planning and further expanding market share

Identify Key Business Segments, Market proposition & Gap Analysis

Assisting in allocating marketing investments

Some of the companies covered in this report are AbbVie Inc., Amgen Inc., AstraZeneca Plc, Bausch Health Co Inc., Bayer AG, Bristol Myers Squibb Co., Clovis Oncology, Eisai Co. Ltd., Eli Lilly and Co., Exelixis Inc., F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., LG Chem Ltd., Merck and Co. Inc., Novartis AG, Pfizer Inc., Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sanofi SA, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Viatris Inc., and Xbrane Biopharma AB etc. The competitive scenario provided in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors market report analyzes, evaluates, and positions companies based on various performance indicators. Some of the factors considered for this analysis include the financial performance of companies over the past few years, growth strategies, product innovations, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc.

Download a Free Sample Report

Based on the Application, the market is classified into oncology and ophthalmology. The market share growth of the oncology segment will be significant during the forecast period. In the field of oncology, VEGF inhibitors like bevacizumab, aflibercept, and ramucirumab are widely used and are experiencing rapid growth. This growth is attributed to the rising incidence of cancer, the introduction of novel drugs, and the high demand for effective cancer treatments. The oncology segment is a key driver of the expanding market for VEGF inhibitors. This trend is particularly relevant for Pharmaceutical Companies involved in the Research and Development of Oncology Drugs, focusing on Therapeutic Efficacy and Adverse Effects.

Based on Geography, the market is classified as North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW). North America is estimated to contribute 44% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The market in this region is propelled by sales of approved VEGF inhibitors and rising cancer prevalence, particularly in indications like RCC, melanomas, and NSCLC. Awareness programs conducted by companies and organizations, such as the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, contribute to encouraging cancer patients to undergo treatment.

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Some of the major VEGF inhibitors available in the market include Bevacizumab (Avastin), Ranibizumab (Lucentis), and Aflibercept (Eylea) play a crucial role in Anti-Angiogenesis Therapy for Cancer Treatment, Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), and Diabetic Retinopathy.

Related Report

The global proteasome inhibitors market size is estimated to grow by USD 2.91 billion at a CAGR of 7.48% between 2023 and 2028.

The HDAC (histone deacetylase) inhibitors market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.73% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 172.61 million.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Application

Market Segmentation by Type

Market Segmentation by Geography

Customer Landscape

Geographic Landscape

Drivers, Challenges, & Trends

Company Landscape

Company Analysis

Appendix

About US

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com

SOURCE Technavio
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on the application of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 1059-VIQD dated December 22, 2023 "On Amendments to the Law "' On Accounting'" and certain related regulatory issues, Trend reports.

According to the decree, it is determined that the powers of the relevant executive authority stipulated in Article 3.1-1.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On Accounting" shall be exercised by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan should solve the issues arising from the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 1059-VIQD of December 22, 2023 "On Amendments to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan 'On Accounting'".

The full text is available at the link.

Will be updated
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) will release its fourth-quarter and full-year financial results and presentation materials at 4:05 p.m. ET on Monday, January 29, 2024. Whirlpool Corporation will hold a conference call to discuss its performance with the investment community at 8 a.m. ET on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.

To participate in the conference call, dial 1 (888) 440-4038 and Conference ID 2610251. International participants should dial 1 (646) 960-0861 and Conference ID 2610251. Participants should dial in at least 10 minutes prior to the call, as they may experience longer than usual wait times.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Company's website at www.investors.whirlpoolcorp.com and may be accessed by clicking on the "News & Events" tab located at the top of the page, and by clicking on "Events & Presentations". To listen to the live webcast, participants should visit the site at least 15 minutes prior to the conference call to download any required streaming media software. Key financial statistics, the earnings presentation, and an archived recording of the conference call will be available on the Company's website for at least 30 days.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is committed to being the best global kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. In an increasingly digital world, the company is driving purposeful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit, Yummly and InSinkErator. In 2022, the company reported approximately $20 billion in annual sales, 61,000 employees and 56 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

Website Disclosure

We routinely post important information for investors on our website, WhirlpoolCorp.com, in the "Investors" section. We also intend to update the Hot Topics Q&A portion of this webpage as a means of disclosing material, non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor the Investors section of our website, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, our webpage is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this document.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev is not only a regional but also a global leader, Tengiz Pkhaladze, professor of the Georgian Institute of Public Relations, Former advisor to the president of Georgia told Trend.

"President Ilham Aliyev is undeniably a leader, not just on a regional level. The world acknowledges him as a dynamic leader and strategic thinker. Certainly, all of this has reflected on Azerbaijan, on all the successes that the country exhibits both in terms of economic development and national, multilateral, balanced, and full-fledged development," the analyst said.

He said Azerbaijan has demonstrated significant progress over the past 20 years, which has turned the country into one of the regional leaders.

"The strategy and vision of President Ilham Aliyev naturally resulted in this. One of the most striking, and I would say historic, achievements is the restoration of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. This, in turn, is a unique precedent in modern history," Pkhaladze said.

The political analyst noted that he visited some districts of Karabakh last December and was amazed by the scale of work and grandiose revitalization projects being carried out in the region.

"All this speaks of President Ilham Aliyev's well-defined strategy to both restore the territorial integrity of the country and revive these territories, their integration, and further development. This emphasizes the historical role of President Ilham Aliyev as a strategist, an outstanding politician, and a worthy leader of the Azerbaijani people," he said.

Pkhaladze noted that Azerbaijan and Georgia help and complement each other as well as jointly create opportunities both for the success and development of the two nations' peoples and for other countries that are interested in developing regional and trans-regional cooperation.

"Of course, in this regard, the strategic partnership between Georgia and Azerbaijan is one of the key ones. There is no need to mention the history of friendship between our nations. Our countries are destined to be friends, and we are destined to be brotherly countries. This is the friendship that brings huge benefits and is the pillar of the development of our nations. Therefore, the successes of Azerbaijan and, accordingly, President Ilham Aliyev are very important to us," the political analyst added.

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Houston, Jan 22 : At least three people were killed and two others injured after a "very chaotic" shooting at a short-term rental home in the Houston area, US state of 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, Xinhua news agency reported.

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 added.
Tehran, Jan 22 : Iran has identified and destroyed more than 10 "terrorist cells" in the past weeks following the recent deadly "terrorist" attacks in the southeastern Kerman city, the media reported, citing Deputy Interior Minister for Security Affairs Majid Mir-Ahmadi.

Mir-Ahmadi on Sunday 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 January 3, when thousands of people gathered to mark the fourth anniversary of his death from a US drone attack in Iraq, Xinhua news agency reported.

Terror group Islamic State (IS) on January 4 claimed responsibility for the bombings, saying two suicide attackers carried out the blasts.

Iran's Intelligence Ministry said on 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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The upcoming presidential election in Azerbaijan will determine the future of the country, expert on international law and political observer Irina Tsukerman told "Election 2024 Independent Media Center, Trend reports.

She noted that Azerbaijan has fully ensured its territorial integrity.

''The country's priorities have changed. Azerbaijan has improved its foreign relations and launched large-scale projects in the economic sphere. In my opinion, the need to hold election stems from these new realities,'' Zuckerman emphasized.

According to Zuckerman, this election is very important for the demining and restoration of the territories liberated from occupation, completion of the peace process with Armenia, full integration of the South Caucasus countries, and Azerbaijan's role as a regional leader.

"This election will also allow for a more optimistic look at the current challenges - plans for the future, such as energy security, wide use of green energy resources," she noted.

"Election 2024 Independent Media Center was launched by the Central Election Commission (CEC) of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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Kabul, Jan 22 : The wreckage of a Russian passenger jet that crashed in Afghanistan last week was found 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.

He also noted that the search team of the Afghan administration has been continuing their efforts to find if any other survived the crash, Xinhua news agency reported.

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.
Tokyo, Jan 22 : 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 per cent, down 3.7 percentage points from the previous month, Japanese news agency Jiji Press said in its latest survey as quoted by Xinhua news report.

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 centre 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.
Ayodhya, Jan 22 : With tonnes of flowers filling the winter air with fragrances and millions of lights illuminating the holy city, Ayodhya is finally ready to welcome Lord Ram into his new magnificent temple on Monday.

From night vision devices to CCTV cameras with artificial intelligence (AI), Ayodhya has been fortified for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony that will be attended by hundreds of VIPs. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive on Monday morning.

More than 7,000 people, including politicians, industrialists, saints and celebrities from across the country are expected to attend the grand opening.

Invitees to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony started arriving in the temple town on Sunday, which is now resplendent with new infrastructure and religious fervour, that is bound to be a milestone in India's political and religious history.

Recordings of 'Ram dhun' played from loudspeakers and people dressed as Lord Ram, Sita, Laxman and Hanuman paraded down the streets.

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.

"The entire country is chanting the name of Lord Ram," said Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya.

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 the Lata Mangeshkar Chowk.

The main 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony will begin at 12.20 p.m. and is expected to end by 1 p.m. Prime Minister Narendra Modi 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.

Surveillance drones have been scanning the ground for suspicious activity. Ayodhya's 'yellow zone' has 10,715 AI-based cameras with face-recognition technology.

To bolster emergency response capabilities, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed. SDRF teams will conduct boat patrols on the Saryu river.

An anti-drone system has been deployed by the Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (SSF), adding an extra layer of security against potential aerial threats.

"Ayodhya is under the watchful eye of drones equipped with AI, alongside anti-mine drones, as part of the concerted efforts to enhance security in the temple town," a senior police officer said.

The anti-mine drones fly at a height of one metre above the ground, and are equipped with advanced technology like spectrometer wavelength detection for detecting underground explosives.

The Ayodhya administration has made arrangements to tackle health emergencies as well, especially considering North India has been gripped by biting cold due to a severe cold wave. Beds have been reserved at city-based and district hospitals and medical colleges in Ayodhya. Also, specialists from AIIMS have provided focused emergency response training to doctors at healthcare institutions.

The new idol of Ram Lalla, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, has been placed inside the temple.

The idol shows Ram Lalla as a five-year-old standing on a lotus, also crafted from the same stone.
Aden : , Jan 22 (IANS) The Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) of Yemen convened an emergency meeting to address the deteriorating security situation in the country and the military escalation by the Houthi forces.

According to a statement released by the state-run Saba news agency on Sunday, the council warned the Houthis against the consequences of intensifying attacks, targeting civilian sites and undermining peace efforts.

Government sources said that recent days have seen Houthi mobilisation and repositioning of fighters, vehicles and weapons on various fronts of the war-ravaged Arab country, Xinhua news agency reported.

The statement praised "the preparedness of Yemeni armed forces and popular resistance groups defending the country's state institutions and countering the Houthi aggression".

The PLC also reviewed the potential impacts on global shipping and trade from repeated Houthi attacks in territorial waters, expressing hope that international unity would strengthen Yemen's capabilities to protect its waters and sovereignty.

Observers said that the PLC's meeting signals heightened tensions and a potential return to active fighting between the Houthi group and pro-government forces.

The Houthis have been engaged in a civil war against the government since 2014, causing a massive humanitarian crisis. Despite Saudi-led efforts to restore the internationally recognised government, the conflict remains deadlocked.
Damascus, Jan 22 : The death toll from Israeli missile attack last week on Iran's targets in the Syrian capital of Damascus has risen to 13, according to a war monitor.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday 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 neighbourhood, specifically targetting a residential building where a meeting of IRGC commanders was reportedly taking place, Xinhua news agency reported.

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".
Washington, Jan 22 : Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has dropped out of the 2024 presidential race just two days before the New Hampshire primary, and endorsed former US President Donald Trump.

"We don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a video posted on X as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

In the video, DeSantis said he was endorsing Trump because it had "become clear" that "a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance".

DeSantis' announcement came just a few days after 30-percentage-point loss to Trump in the Iowa caucuses. Trump was leading with 51 per cent, and DeSantis came in second with 21 per cent.
Gaza, Jan 22 : The Gaza-based Health Ministry has said that the health situation in the Strip is "catastrophic and painful" amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

"The Israeli army deliberately strangles and destroys the health system," the Ministry's Spokesperson Ashraf Al-Qedra said on Sunday in a press statement.

"The accumulation of cases and the lack of treatment facilities in hospitals accelerate the loss of lives," he said, adding that "hospitals in the southern Gaza Strip are unable to provide health services normally, and the situation is exceeding their capacity".

The Spokesperson noted that 70 per cent of the medical aid that entered the enclave is outside the scope of the basic needs of local hospitals, and 99 medical personnel are still under the detention of Israeli forces, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier on Sunday, the Ministry said that the Palestinian death toll due to the ongoing conflict has risen to 25,105 since October 7, 2023.

Meanwhile, large parts of the enclave are witnessing violent clashes between Palestinian fighters and the Israeli army, while Israeli warplanes and artillery are targetting various areas in the neighbourhoods and cities of the strip.

Local residents told Xinhua that sounds of explosions and intense clashes had been heard since Sunday morning across the Palestinian territory, including Gaza City, Jabalia City and Beit Lahia city in the north, the neighbourhoods of Ma'an, Bani Suhaila, and Abasan, east of the southern city of Khan Younis, and the Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip.
Brussels, Jan 22 : Nearly 9,000 people, according to the police, participated in a march in Brussels, demanding concrete measures from Belgium to establish an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ensure justice for the Palestinian people.

As the current President of the EU Council, Belgium is called upon to play a central role in promoting a fair solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Xinhua news agency reported.

On Monday, the EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in the Middle East in Brussels. The 27 EU Foreign Ministers will meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz before separate talks with the top diplomat of the Palestinian Authority, Riyad al-Maliki.

The mobilisation on this Sunday was initiated by a diverse coalition of Belgian civil society organisations, including major NGOs.

The organisers, advocating for peace, warned against any promotion of war crimes, attacks on civilians, anti-Semitism or racism.

According to the organisers, in the past three months, more than 24,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children have lost their lives. Nearly 1.9 million people have been forcibly displaced, and a significant portion of civil infrastructure has been completely destroyed.
Islamabad, Jan 22 : A joint military training between the Pakistan Army and Royal Saudi Land Forces kicked off in Okara district in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province, the Pakistani military said.

At the inauguration of the training in Okara Garrison organised by the Multan Corps of the Pakistan Army, the contingents of both countries displayed remarkable military drill, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistani military, said on Sunday in a statement as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

Through the joint training programme, the troops of the two countries would get the opportunity to refine their skills in classroom sessions and in collective combat skills, it added.

At the end of the inauguration ceremony, badges of joint training were affixed to the officers and soldiers of the two sides, according to the ISPR.
Lucknow, Jan 22 : Hours before the much-awaited 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya, the BJP has flagged a video of the 1990 Ayodhya firing incident, party sources said.

The BJP tweeted the nearly three-minute video clip projecting the incident as a "calculated warning" of the then Samajwadi Party government, helmed by Mulayam Singh Yadav, to Ram bhakts daring them to carry out any "andolan" (movement) for the Ram Janmabhoomi.

Sources in the BJP IT cell said that the party would also tweet the video of December 6, 1992 incident when the Babri Masjid was pulled down by a frenzied mob of kar sevaks.

The clip titled 'Sadiyon Ka Sangharsh' begins with video images of police firing tear gas shells as frightened kar sevaks scurry for cover.

A voiceover then rolls in: "Kaun bhool sakta hai 1990 ka Ayodhya goli kand (Who can forget the 1990 firing incident of Ayodhya)?"

The video details how senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani, who was spearheading the 'Ram Rath Yatra', was arrested on October 23, 1990, in Bihar on the orders of then Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav.

The yatra, which began in Somnath on September 25, 1990, traversed through hundreds of villages and towns and was scheduled to reach Ayodhya.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The newly appointed Canadian Ambassador to Russia Sarah Taylor has paid a courtesy visit to the doyen of the diplomatic corps, her Azerbaijani counterpart Polad Bulbuloghlu, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Russia, Trend reports.

Bulbuloghlu congratulated Taylor on her appointment and wished her success in her career.

The meeting discussed many topics, including current relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Taylor inquired about the situation in the concluded Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict and the role of Russia in supporting peace in the region.

Bulbuloglu spoke in detail about the history of the conflict, the years-long and inconclusive negotiation process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Azerbaijan's victory in the 2020 second Karabakh war, as well as the local anti-terrorist measures taken on September 19, 2023, during which Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He also talked of the post-conflict period, large-scale restoration, and reconstruction work carried out in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan.

Besides, Taylor inquired about the process of resettlement of the Armenian residents from the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan.

Bulbuloghlu emphasized that the Azerbaijani state did not impede life of Armenian residents in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan.

The Azerbaijani ambassador provided detailed information about the process of reintegration of the Armenian residents living in the Karabakh region into the legal and socio-economic environment of Azerbaijan.

Bulbuloghlu emphasized that the Azerbaijani state did not exert any pressure on the peaceful Armenian residents.

He draws special attention to the fact that peace, stability, and security in the South Caucasus are possible only through the establishment of good-neighborly relations based on mutual respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Regarding the issue of Russia's participation in the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, Bulbuloglu told the guest about the process of adopting trilateral statements with the participation of Russia on November 9, 2020, January 11, and November 26, 2021, as well as October 31, 2022.

Moreover, despite some complaints, he noted the positive role of the peacekeeping contingent of Russia in ending the second Karabakh war and maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Bulbuloglu expressed concern about Canada's position, influenced by a strong Armenian diaspora, regarding unrealistic, unjust, and pro-Armenian statements made by some politicians in that country about Azerbaijan.

He asked the Canadian ambassador to convey his concern to her leadership regarding the deteriorating relations between the two countries.

During the meeting, held in an atmosphere of mutual understanding, there was an exchange of views on the processes in the region and issues of mutual interest.

The Canadian ambassador expressed gratitude to her Azerbaijani counterpart for the interesting and productive conversation and expressed hope for the continued development of relations and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Canada.

Following the visit, Taylor was presented with a book titled "Karabakh before and after occupation," published by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

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Lucknow, Jan 22 : A man allegedly set his house afire in an inebriated condition, in the Talkatora area of Lucknow, said officials on Monday.

The incident took place on Sunday after which the man, identified as Raju from Ramjipur, was arrested by police.

"Upon reaching the spot, Alambagh fire officer in-charge Dharampal Singh saw the first floor of the house was on fire.

"It was put out with some effort. The man was arrested by Talkatora police station," an official said.

More details were awaited.
Lakhimpur Kheri, Jan 22 : Three men have been arrested allegedly while poaching inside the Gaurifanta range of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) in Uttar Pradesh, said officials.

The accused, Rahish Rana, Ashok Lal and Ankit, all belong to local tribes and were caught by a patrol team along with a trap and solar wires.

The accused were planning to trap wild boar and deer.

They have been booked under the wildlife conservation act and sent to jail.

Two days ago, a team of Dudhwa officials led by range officer (Bankati) Nirbhay Pratap Singh raided a shop in Kheri and seized deer horns along with porcupine body parts.

Deputy Director Rangaraju T. said, "We are taking strict action against those violating the law and harming the protected wildlife species."
Washington, Jan 22 : India will name an ambassador to the US shortly to fill the vacancy left open by the retirement of Taranjit Singh Sandhu, the incumbent. And it will likely be another officer of the Indian Foreign Service as has become the practice in the last two decades.

It doesn't have to be. A case can be made, in principle, for widening the search for Sandhu's replacement to beyond the foreign service cadre. It's not as strange as it may seem, especially to Generation Z.

Ambassadors to the US, the UK, the USSR/Russia were generally non-diplomats drawn from a wide range of fields, which included the foreign service's rivals in government service, the Indian Administrative Service. S. Radhakrishnan, who would become India's second president, was ambassador to the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics (USSR); Legal luminaries L.M. Singhvi to the US and Nani Palkhivala to the US; Economist Abis Hussain to the US; politicians Karan Singh and Sissddhartha Shankar Ray to the US; Air force chief marshal I.H. Latif to France; Indian Civil Service (predecessor of the IAS) officer and governor of the Reserve Bank of India L.K. Jha to the US; IAS offices P.C. Alexander to the UK and Naresh Chandra to the US.

Then it all stopped. Around the later 1990s, during the tenure of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh. Chandra was the only non-IFS ambassador to a P-5 capital (P-5 are the five permanent members of the United Nations -- the US. the UK, France, USSR/Russia and China) at the dawn of the 21st century and the foreign service has been the sole supplier of ambassadors to these and other countries since.

Indian diplomats are among the most qualified and capable around the world. And each of them has done the country proud. Sandhu is among the most connected and regarded ambassadors in Washington DC -- at a recent Art of Living event a US senator, who delivered remarks, recognized his presence on the stage and not External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who was also there -- but is a rare Indian diplomat who had the fortune to build on two previous tenures. The less fortunate ones come and leave without causing even a ripple of attention for themselves and the cause/client, India.

Despite Sandhu's relentless outreach on the Capitol Hill, home to US Congress, India has still paid millions to professional lobbyists to smoothen things for India on the Hill; in the West Wing, part of the White House where the American presidency works; and open doors and make appointments in ministries that are critical to the relationship, such as the US Trade Representative's office, department of defense and the state department.

But why disturb an arrangement that's working seemingly? Why look outside the foreign service to Sandhu's replacement? Or for any other vacancy in P-5 capitals or, the more consequential group of ambassadorial positions, The Neighborhood.

Professional diplomats tend to define the India-US relationship in terms of politics. India and the US need each other because of the same tribe of wolves at their doors: China, goes the scenario. And therefore the importance of the Quad and the Indo-Pacific. Every bilateral interaction between the prime minister of India and the president of the US is celebrated as a victory of this politics. Every meeting of the Quad -- as the group of Indo-Pacific powers India, the US, Japan and Australia is called -- is held up as evidence of a new world order with India as a driving power.

Politics remains the most problematic part of the India-US relationship as handled by professional Indian diplomats. They got the 2016 presidential election horribly wrong. Convince of the victory of Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee, they had completely ignored Donald Trump and his campaign. When he won, the Indian embassy struggled for hours to find a way into the Trump campaign for the prime minister to talk to and congratulate the incoming president.

Unchastened, the Indian diplomats got the 2020 presidential election wrong. Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed up, as a result, calling for a second term for Trump at a rally the two leaders addressed jointly in Houston in 2019. It was called "Howdy Modi" famously. The Democrats. who went on to capture the White House with President Joe Biden's victory over Trump, have not forgotten that ill-advised endorsement of the Modi government for it.

A non-IFS ambassador will get things wrong as well. But that person may be able to compensate it with his/her clout with the American community that should and does matter most for India: the business community.

While Sandhu managed to invite senior members of the Biden administration to events and gatherings at his official residence, which was a significant improvement over the blank slate of his predecessors, he failed to get, or did not try, to get the captains of US industry, many of whom are of India extract: Google chief Sundar Pichai Microsoft's Satya Nadella, Adobe's Shantanu Narayen, and Fedex chief Raj Subramaniam.

Sandhu recently posted on X a meeting with Vivek Lall, the Indian American CEO of General Atomics, whose armed drones India is buying after years of dithering. The meeting took place, to be noted, months after the deal was announced.

US businesses have been a blindspot for India's outreach in the US despite New Delhi's focus on attracting foreign investment. Despite, more importantly, the willingness of American businesses to be wooed, courted and cherished.

Could Anand Mahindra of the Mahindras, or Infosys founders Narayan Murthy and Nandan Nilenkani, or Ratan Tata of the Tatas, be different? Given the presence of their companies in the US -- a Mahindra vehicle was on the shortlist for the US postal service's distinctive postal delivery vehicles that are uniquely right-hand drive -- and Tata's Land Rover is one of the top-end luxury vehicles in the US.

These gentlemen may be naive about the intricacies of the US government and politics but they will be able to summon help from the same hired lobbyists. And none of them -- or others of their tribe -- is capable of the most appalling of gaffes by an Indian ambassador to the US, when Ronin Sen, a career diplomat who was ambassador to the US from 2004 to 2006: when he called Indian parliamentarians "headless chicken".

Prime Minister Modi likes to think out of the box. This is his chance to put his stamp on his government's diplomacy.
Chennai, Jan 22 : With the Kuruvai paddy season in Tamil Nadu almost over, the delta farmers of the state, who were expecting a bumper harvest, are dejected.

The Kuruvai paddy yield in delta belts of Tamil Nadu has fallen below 25 per cent of what was expected. While the farmers were expecting a minimum of 30 bags of paddy per acre, in many cases it has gone below 25 bags leading to losses. It may be noted that each bag of paddy weighs around 80 kg.

R.K. Sivaraman, a farmer in Thanjavur, the rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, told IANS that the expectations were shattered after the Kuruvai harvest, and added that the inconsistent water supply from the Cauvery River was the main reason behind this.

While the Mettur dam was opened on June 12, the customary date, the water from Cauvery River was in erratic supply, and there were skirmishes between the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka regarding the shortage in the release of the water to Tamil Nadu.

Farmers told IANS that those who depended on the groundwater got maximum yields and there were farmers who could harvest even 50 bags of paddy from an acre of farmland.

The farmers had achieved the target of 3.25 lakh acres of Paddy farming but after water supply from Cauvery turned erratic, the yield came down. Farmers were expecting a good south west monsoon but it was also not as what was expected.

Farmers' association leader K.Karuppusamy while speaking to IANS said, aWe were expecting 2,400 kg per acre of paddy harvest but it has fallen much below and those who got at least 2,100 kg are lucky enough. We have suffered losses and continuous losses would lead to major financial woes to farmers."
New Delhi, Jan 22 : EU foreign ministers will hold separate talks with their Israeli and Palestinian counterparts over two-state solution following the rejection of the proposal by the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, media reports said.

Reports said that at least 27 EU ministers will first meet with Israel's foreign minister Israel Katz following by a meeting with Palestinian Authority's top diplomat Riyad al-Maliki.

"Katz and Maliki are not expected to meet each other," media reports said.

Media report from Middle East said that the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia will also hold talks with the European ministers.

On October 7, last year, Hamas attacked the southern parts of Israel killing at least 1200 people, taking over 200 people as hostages. Around 105 Israeli hostages have been already released by the Hamas.

Israel has killed near 25,105 Palestinians since October 7 while injuring 62,681-- mostly infants and women.

--IANS

int/dan
Kolkata, Jan 22 : A businessman in Kolkata was arrested on charges of smuggling of gold from abroad, said the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) on Monday.

The arrested person was identified as Keshav Viswambhar Chauhan. He was arrested from his residence in central Kolkata. Smuggled gold worth Rs 2 crore was seized from his procession, sources said.

It is learnt that one agent in this illegal smuggling business was arrested recently in Chhattisgarh by the sleuths and during his interrogation he named Chauhan as one the important links in this racket.

The DRI sleuths, sources said, have already got the permission of the court to take Chauhan to Chhattisgarh on transit remand and the process on this count has already started.

It learnt that the main assignment of Chauhan was to illegally import gold from overseas and then sell the same at premium prices to different jewellery traders in different parts of the country.

He used to operate from more than one state.

This is the second major gold seizure by the DRI sleuths within a span of two months. In November last year, they seized smuggled gold of market value of around Rs 3.30 crore from near the India - Bangladesh border area at Habra in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal..

The gold consignment was smuggled from Bangladesh and was meant for delivery to some gold jewellery manufacturing entities at Posta in central Kolkata.
Toronto, Jan 22 : Calling for a cap on the number of international students arriving in Canada, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown announced that the City Council has unanimously passed a motion urging the government to require study visas to include an accommodation address.

The move comes in the wake of an exacerbating housing crisis, leading to unaffordable rentals that are forcing students, many of them Indians, to live in unsafe and illegal conditions in the country.

"We can't have international students living in 3rd world conditions while being used as an ATM for the college they are going to," Brown, whose city has seen a large influx of international students, wrote in a post on X on Saturday.

"Brampton City Council has unanimously passed a motion calling on the federal government to require international student visas to include a housing address consistent with local by laws as a component of the approvals process," Brown said.

According to the Mayor, the current system allows international students to be routinely taken advantage of and is exacerbating the housing crisis.

"Requiring a housing address as part of the visa approval process would ensure every college has an appropriate housing plan and spur new student housing construction," Brown wrote.

According to official figures, the number of international students in Canada has crossed the one million mark, just as the country mulls capping their arrival.

There were more than 800,000 international students in Canada in 2022, and the federal government has said previously it expected more than 900,000 in 2023.

As the housing crisis has been blamed on an increase in migrants and international students, Brown said it is the immigration system that needs to be fixed while supporting the arrival of international students in Canada.

"Enough is enough. It's time to clean up this broken federal program," he said.

In a letter to the federal immigration and housing ministers last month, Brown also called on the government for a more restrictive visa policy, according to The Globe and Mail newspaper.

This included capping student permits issued annually, and prioritising postsecondary institutions that have a housing plan.

"Data demonstrates Ontario has more international students than all other provinces and territories combined, and a substantial portion of new international students settle in Brampton where they face issues such as housing affordability and as a result, insufficient living conditions," the letter read.

"These changes to the international student program will help alleviate the pressures international students face and municipalities like Brampton who carry the responsibility of creating conditions to help international students thrive."

Brown told The Globe that many students reside in his community while attending colleges hundreds of kilometres away.

"It's a massive resource drain. The city gets no compensation for the fact that they're not paying taxes. They're living quite often 16 people in a basement apartment," Brown said.

Earlier this month, Immigration Minister Marc Miller said he will closely analyse the number of international students and temporary residents entering into the country with the government facing backlash over housing affordability and rising cost of living.

Further, he called on the provinces to stop licensing sub-standard private colleges that he says churn foreign graduates out like "puppy mills".

Brown also mentioned in his letter that public and private colleges have significantly increased international enrollment to up their profit over the past 10 years, but have added little to no new on-campus housing.

According to economist Mike Moffatt, Ontario added 423,000 non-permanent residents in the past two years, compared with around 417,000 in the past 20 years, with the population boom linked to international students.
Second Boeing aircraft model to be inspected by US aviation agency. Image Source: IANS News

London, Jan 22 : Checks are to be carried out on a second Boeing aircraft model in the US following the blowout of an unused door on one of its planes earlier this month, media reports said.

The US Federal Aviation Administration grounded more than 170 of the 737 Max 9 fleet after a cabin panel broke away thousands of feet above the ground.

On Sunday, the agency said airlines should also inspect older 737-900ER models, which use the same door design, BBC reported.

The FAA described the move as an "added layer of safety".

It said there had been no reported issues with the 737-900ER, but that it uses the same style of panel to "plug" an unused door as the plane involved in the terrifying 5 January incident, BBC reported.

An Alaska Airlines flight en route to California from Portland, Oregon was forced to make an emergency landing after the panel came away, leaving a gaping hole in the side of the aircraft.

The incident prompted the FAA to ground all 737 Max 9s featuring that style of panel and sent Boeing's share price tumbling.

The agency is investigating the firm's manufacturing practices and production lines, including those linked to subcontractor Spirit AeroSystems, which provided the panel, BBC reported.

Earlier this week, the FAA said it had carried out inspections on 40 of the grounded planes but did not say when they would be able to fly again.

In a statement on Sunday, the agency said: "The safety of the flying public, not speed, will determine the timeline for returning these aircraft to service", BBC reported.

Boeing has said it will increase the quality of inspections in its manufacturing process in wake of the incident.

The 737-900ER models have carried out 11 million hours of operations without similar incident to the newer 737 Max 9s.

The FAA did not order the older model to be grounded while the visual inspections are carried out by operators, BBC reported.
Kolkata, Jan 22 : Congress has invited the CPI-M politburo member and the party's state secretary in West Bengal Md Salim to participate in the party's Nyay Yatra programme while it will pass through West Bengal.

Kolkata, Jan 22 (IANS) Congress has invited the CPI-M politburo member and the partyas state secretary in West Bengal Md Salim to participate in the partyas Nyay Yatra programme while it will pass through West Bengal.

Sources said that Salim has been individually communicated by both veteran state Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha member Pradeep Bhattacharya as well as the partyas central observer for West Bengal Gulam Ahemd Mir.

It is learnt that Salim has communicated to them that in case he is not able to be present because of his partyas political programmes at Thiruvananthapuram, he will instruct his party relevant district leaderships to ensure participation at in the yatrs.

All eyes are now on Trinamool Congress whether they will send any representation but the political observers too feel that Trinamool Congress participation seems to be most unlikely in wake of the recent stands taken by both Trinamool Congress and state Congress.

While the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has hinted towards contesting from all the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal, the state Congress president and the five-time party Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury had challenged her to contest against him in the forthcoming general elections.

As per schedule the Nyay Yatra in West Bengal will be mainly concentrated in the northern sector of the sector of the state.

As per the route map, the Yatra is supposed to enter West Bengal through Boxirhat in Tufanganj sub-division in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal and will move through mainly the districts in north Bengal Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, Alipurduar, North Dinajpur and Malda.

The minority- dominated Murshidabad district is the only district in South Bengal which is the bordering district in that sector with north Bengal, and will be the only one to be covered in the Nyay Yatra route.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : As India readies itself to celebrate yet another Republic Day with a lot of cheer and mirth, this year the 26th of January comes along with one of 2024's first long weekends and presents a lucrative offer for travellers to pack their bags and discover India's diverse tapestry.

New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANSlife) As India readies itself to celebrate yet another Republic Day with a lot of cheer and mirth, this year the 26th of January comes along with one of 2024as first long weekends and presents a lucrative offer for travellers to pack their bags and discover Indiaas diverse tapestry.

If youare one such traveller looking to explore, unwind, and rejuvenate, Airbnb has the perfect list of destinations and stays to help you plan your break!

Spend the weekend in Goa, at this Lux Pad

Discover a pristine 2BHK Airbnb apartment at the heart of Goa, conveniently located between the Dabolim and Mopa airports. This chic retreat offers ensuite washrooms, a well-equipped kitchenette, and attentive service from their housekeeping staff. Complete with a collection of carefully curated art, the home provides conversation pieces like none other. Enjoy the serene, laid back Goan lifestyle on a well-deserved break!

Explore the Himachal, while at Mandukya in Jibhi

A luxury retreat like none other, the Mandukya is nestled in the majestic mountains 8km uphill from Jibhi. The Airbnb cottage offers breathtaking views of the valley and one of the main highlights of the house is a bathtub facing the mountains. With interiors that blend modern aesthetics and Himachali culture seamlessly, The Mandukya offers its guests amenities of the highest standard. If youare looking to explore the wilderness and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature, Jibhi is the place to go!

Absorb Indiaas rich heritage in the Pink City, at this boutique stay

This quaint Airbnb stay located in Bani Park, Jaipur is a great definition of luxury, artfully designed in neutral tones and floral motifs inspired by the Pink City. The spacious floor plan, abundant light, and contemporary dAcor make this home the ideal stay for travellers looking to explore and connect with Indiaas rich cultural heritage and diverse roots. Jaipur offers its visitors a wide spectrum of experiences, weaving together history, tradition, and heritage, and is the place to visit for travellers wanting to journey through Indiaas history.

Rejuvenate in hills of the Western Ghats, at Winterfell

A cozy Airbnb homestay nestled in the picturesque district of Wayanad, Winterfell is the perfect place to recharge your batteries for the new year. The home gives off cozy vibes with its snug and intimate dAcor, complemented by an accent of sustainable art on display. While here, one can indulge in nature walks and cycle tours, reconnect with their loved ones, and take a break from the stress of everyday life!

Unfold the Beauty of Shimla at Cloudberry

Located in Mashobra, Cloudberry is an Airbnb that boasts a distinctive wooden ambiance complemented by panoramic mountain views. The expansive terrace offers unparalleled views of Shimla and its beauty, and the home is equipped with all necessary amenities to make your stay a comfortable one. Shimla promises to be a blend of nature and heritage, and you can spend your vacation doing a myriad of activities!

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

--IANS

lh/ tb
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The 19th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was held in the capital of Uganda, Kampala, from January 15 to 20, 2024, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

Azerbaijan was represented at the summit by a delegation headed by Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov.

The summit was attended by about 120 NAM member states and observers, as well as high-ranking officials of international organizations. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Chairman of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly Dennis Francis, Secretary General of the African Union Commission Musa Faki Mahammad, Secretary General of the Arab League Ahmed Abu al-Gheit, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations Patricia Scotland, and other officials participated and spoke as special guests. A representative of the Youth Organization from Uganda, NAM, headquartered in Azerbaijan, also addressed the meeting.

According to the summit's agenda, a video reflecting the activities and initiatives of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as NAM Chairman was demonstrated, followed by a speech by Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov on the results of Azerbaijan's chairmanship in NAM.

Representatives of NAM member states and international organizations, including the chairman of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly and the secretary general of the United Nations, who participated in the event, highly assessed the successful 4-year chairmanship of our country in the Movement and expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Meanwhile, even though most of Azerbaijan's chairmanship in the NAM fell during the COVID-19 pandemic, Azerbaijan not only successfully fulfilled its tasks but also contributed to the strengthening of the movement by putting forward relevant initiatives and platforms.

The final document of the 19th NAM Summit, which contains several important points for Azerbaijan, was adopted within the framework of the event.

The heads of state and government of NAM member states expressed solidarity in the document regarding the rehabilitation, reconstruction, and reintegration activities carried out by Azerbaijan in the territories affected by the conflict, noting that the problem of unexploded ordnance and mines creates obstacles in these territories and calling for international assistance.

The member countries expressed support for the initiative to establish a NAM women's platform put forward by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and considered the NAM conference on advancing women's rights held in Baku in November 2023 as a first step in this direction.

The document notes that the convening of a special session of the UN General Assembly to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, initiated by the President of Azerbaijan in his capacity as NAM Chairperson, promoted access to vaccines and created new opportunities for cooperation within the Movement.

The choice of Azerbaijan as the venue of the 29th Conference of the Parties to the Framework Convention on Climate Change was unanimously endorsed by the NAM member countries.

The work done under the chairmanship of Azerbaijan towards the institutionalization of NAM, in particular the activities of the NAM Youth Organization and the NAM Parliamentary Network, was supported by the final document of the Summit.

During the summit, as a result of the relevant steps taken by Azerbaijan during the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to expand the organization, the only country on the African continent, South Sudan, which was not a member of the organization, joined the ranks of NAM members. Thus, the number of NAM members reached 121. During the meeting, Azerbaijan handed over the chairmanship of the NAM to Uganda. It was noted that our country will continue to make efforts to develop the movement, and in particular, it will continue to contribute to the activities of the organization within the framework of the "troika of chairmanship" of the NAM.

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Kolkata, Jan 22 : While Trinamool Congress has decided to organize 'harmony Rallies' in Kolkata as well as in the districts of West Bengal on Monday coinciding with the inauguration of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose issued an appeal to the people of the state to maintain absolute peace and harmony in the state.

In a statement issued from the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata, the Governor has described January 22 as the moment to be united with the rich legacy and culture of India.

"I appeal to the brothers and sisters of West Bengal to glorify the day by maintaining peace and harmony. I request everybody to be tolerant. I request everybody not to get trapped in fake information. The law is beside everybody. Time has come for the unity of people for the sake of social unity," the Governor said.

The scheduled Harmony Rally of Trinamool Congress will start on Monday afternoon from Hazra Crossing in South Kolkata and will end at Park Circus Seven Point Crossing in Central Kolkata. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the party's general secretary Abhishek Banerjee will be present in the rally.

Besides party leaders and workers, religious leaders from different religions are also scheduled to participate in the rally.

The chief minister, however, does not want to describe the proposed Harmony Rally as a counter to the Ram Temple inauguration. According to her, the rally is meant to spread the message of unity and harmony among all religions.

Meanwhile, different parts of Kolkata have been already under control of the huge police contingents deployed there. Similarly, there are adequate police deployment in the district where the ruling party will organize similar harmony rallies.
Those in power must realise that enough is enough: PTI Chairman. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Jan 22 : Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has said that those in power should realise that enough is enough, media report said.

"Those in power must realise that enough is enough now. Don't push us to the point of no return," Gohar said in an interview with Voice of America Urdu.

He said that the PTI is willing to engage in dialogue and work together with their rivals.

"Power of a ruler and dictator is destined to end, but this country, people and democracy will stay. If this is realised, we can forget differences and move forward," Gohar said during the interview.

He said that a third force can exploit the situation if differences are not resolved.

"If you pick a fight with the country's largest party and don't allow it to participate in the democratic process, then will this be called a democratic country?" he said during the interview.

Gohar, during the interview, said that PTI founding chairman Imran Khan is willing to talk to everyone for a free and fair election.

"On one hand, Nawaz Sharif was brought back and acquitted of all cases to make him eligible for elections. On the other hand, PTI's founding chairman was booked in all sorts of cases, including treason."

Talking about the loss of PTI's 'bat' symbol, he told VOA Urdu that his party had been deprived of 227 reserved seats since it is contesting the election without a symbol.
Hyderabad, Jan 22 : AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi has slammed Telangana Police for arresting three persons for screening documentary 'Ram ke Naam'.

The Hyderabad MP asked Rachakonda Police Commissioner to explain why screening of the documentary Ram ke Naam 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. Please let us know if we need a pre-screening certificate from the police before watching a movie," asked Owaisi.

His comment on 'X' came after police stopped the screening of the documentary at a restaurant at Sainikpuri and registered a case against the organisers.

The documentary by Anand Patwardhan is about the events surrounding the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya on 6 December, 1992.

The case was registered on a complaint by one Ruthvik, who alleged that the screening and the discussion by a few people watching the documentary hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.

The complainant was said to be one of those invited to watch the documentary, which was screened by a group 'Hyderabad Cinephiles'.

Police reached the place and stopped the screening. A case was registered at Neredmet Police Station against the activists under Indian Penal code (IPC) sections 290 (public nuisance) and 295A (Outraging religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) read with 34.

Police said the screening was organised without permission and took up investigation.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Mohamad Hasan will advocate for the state of Palestine to become a full member of the United Nations at meetings in New York this week, media reports said.

The proposal would require the backing of the UN Security Council (UNSC), which puts forward proposed new member states to the UN General Assembly to vote on, and is unlikely to unanimously back the measure.

At the meeting, Hasan will "reiterate Malaysia's call for an immediate ceasefire, oppose the continuing forced displacement of Palestinians and stress the urgent need for unhindered humanitarian aid", according to a statement released ahead of the trip.

--IANS

int/dan
New Delhi, Jan 22 : In today's ever-evolving technological landscape, being AI-literate and possessing digital skills is indispensable for students. AI has become a pervasive force shaping various industries and aspects of daily life. Digital literacy is important not only for career readiness but also for educational and social success. The ability to use technology effectively is necessary for advancement and success in all spheres of life.

The latest strides in AI are intensifying the imperative for digital transformation in a hybrid environment. Educators, grappling with AI literacy in their daily tasks and classrooms, now encounter the necessity to acquire a fresh set of teaching and learning skills, specifically centered on artificial intelligence and AI writing.

Letas take a look at a few of the many ways in which cultivating AI literacy and digital skills is crucial for students:

Future-Ready Workforce: As industries increasingly integrate AI technologies, a workforce well-versed in AI and digital skills becomes essential. Students equipped with these abilities are better positioned for future job markets that demand proficiency in handling advanced technologies.

Facilitates Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: AI literacy fosters problem-solving skills and critical thinking. Understanding how AI works enables students to analyze complex issues, identify opportunities for automation, and develop innovative solutions, thereby enhancing their analytical abilities. It sharpens their mind and strengthens their intellectual muscles.

Promotes Technological Adaptability: In a world where technology evolves swiftly, having digital skills ensures adaptability. Students who are familiar with digital tools and platforms can quickly adapt to new technologies, making them more resilient in an ever-changing environment.

Supports Lifelong Skills: In the dynamic landscape of technology, foundational digital literacy equips students with essential knowledge and skills applicable to both current and future technologies. For instance, grasping fundamental concepts like input/output, application operation, and understanding hardware devices impart transferable knowledge. These basics serve as a solid foundation that students can apply to navigate and adapt to new and emerging technologies.

Enhances Creativity: AI literacy can enhance creativity by providing tools and frameworks for students to explore new ideas and possibilities. Digital skills enable students to leverage creative software, design thinking principles, and digital platforms to express and implement their innovative ideas. Technology provides the necessary tools to enhance their ability and give shape to their growth story.

Promotes Data Literacy: Understanding AI involves grasping data concepts. Digital skills contribute to data literacy, empowering students to analyze, interpret, and draw meaningful insights from data. This skill is invaluable in a data-driven world.

Improves Ethical Awareness: AI comes with ethical considerations. Students with AI literacy are better equipped to understand the ethical implications of AI applications. This awareness is crucial for responsible and ethical decision-making in various fields. In addition to online safety, digital literacy encompasses teaching digital responsibility and the proficiency to consume and communicate information ethically in the online realm.

Enables Global Connectivity: Digital skills enable students to connect with peers and resources globally. Online collaboration, communication, and the ability to navigate digital platforms facilitate a more connected and collaborative learning experience.

Provides Entrepreneurial Opportunities: AI literacy opens doors to entrepreneurial opportunities. Students can leverage AI technologies to develop innovative solutions, create startups, and contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It opens up an avenue with limitless possibilities.

Despite the widespread presence of technology in homes and educational settings, a significant proportion of minority individuals still possess limited digital literacy skills. Prioritizing digital literacy in education becomes essential for institutions to enhance the digital skills of underrepresented groups. This proactive approach enables these students to acquire additional career opportunities and better positions them for success in the future.

Students are reaping AI benefits via ed-tech tools and the formative learning they facilitate. However, this application is frequently inconsistent and dependent on the initiative of innovative educators or departments, rather than being a standard practice across institutions.

Being AI-literate and possessing digital skills is not just about staying current, it's about preparing students for a future where technology plays a pivotal role. These skills empower students to be effective contributors, critical thinkers, and responsible users of technology in an increasingly digital and AI-driven world.

(Aarul Malaviya is the Founder of Zamit)

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

--IANS

Aarul Malaviya/ os/ tb
Chennai, Jan 22 : The Tamil Nadu Government on Monday informed the Madras High Court that its permission was not required to play hymns, offer 'Annadhanam' or live stream the 'Prana Pratishtha' event at private temples, mandapams or other such places.

This was stated by the Tamil Nadu Government Additional Public Prosecutor (APP), A Damodharan before Justice Anand Venkatesh of the Madras High Court.

The court had held a special sitting around 9.30 am on Monday on a writ petition filed by L Ganapathy, president, Viveka Hindu Movement, Thiruninravur, Chennai.

The petitioner was challenging an order passed by the Avadi Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) on January 21, 2024 rejecting permission for hymns and 'Annadhanam' at a private marriage hall in Pattabiram.

Senior Counsels, S Ravi and G Karthikeyan argued the case on behalf of the petitioners. The APP informed the court that the organisers need to inform the police about the event so that the force can take adequate measures for crowd control if needed.

The government lawyer also told the court that the police would impose restrictions only in sensitive places for maintaining law and order.

The APP however told the court that permission of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department must be obtained for temples that fall under its control.

On the basis of the position taken by the state government, the court said, "The above stand taken by the State Government and the police makes it quite clear that conducting the function considering the auspicious occasion, singing bhajans, uttering Ram naam, offering Annadhanams are not per se prohibited or restricted," Justice Anand Venkatesh said and added that all the celebrations and Annadhanams must be done in a pious and religious manner.

He said, "It must be borne in mind that all this will be done in a responsible and pious manner today without giving rise to any law and order problem. No misinformation or wrong information must be permitted to be spread and this will be kept in mind by all parties concerned. Ultimately, everyone concerned must keep in mind that bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the equilibrium prevailing in society."
New Delhi, Jan 22 : During the sacred occasion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Lord Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on the 22nd of this month, Aashirvaad Svasthi, ITC's Ghee brand, is set to spread and imbue the 'Aro-Ma of Love' in the Temple.

New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) During the sacred occasion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Lord Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on the 22nd of this month, Aashirvaad Svasthi, ITC's Ghee brand, is set to spread and imbue the aAro-Ma of Lovea in the Temple.

In a gesture of devotion, ITC will be providing Aashirvaad Svasti Pure Cow Ghee which will illuminate thousands of Diyas (lamps) during the auspicious day marking the homecoming of Lord Ram in the newly constructed Ram Mandir.

Also, in celebration of the Ram Mandir's inauguration in Ayodhya, ITC's social investment program, Mission Sunhera Kal, has strengthened its collaboration with the Ayodhya Nagar Nigam. The Swachh aTeertha campaign has been launched encompassing multi-dimensional interventions. As part of this effort, over 1,000 dustbins made from recycled plastic have been distributed to local vendors. These vendors have taken a ashapatha that is committed to a pledge to ensure the effective utilisation of these bins, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment in the city.

As part of the Swachh aTeertha campaign, more than 200 Plastic Collection Boxes, constructed from recycled plastic and with a capacity of 290 litres each, have been strategically placed at various locations. To oversee the waste collection process, a team of over 200 trained volunteers will be actively involved. ITC has been associated with Ayodhya Nagar Nigam and collaborates with the Urban Local Body under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh. In the coming months, installation of composters and bio-gas units are planned with the support of Ayodhya Nagar Nigam.

ITC Aashirvaad Svasthi Ghee takes pride in actively participating and enhancing the celebrations of the devotees during the Ram Nadir inauguration. To become enablers of devotion, ITC has collaborated with the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra to contribute to the momentous occasion of the Nutan Vigrah Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lallaji.

In a warm gesture to welcome all devotees visiting the sacred city of Ayodhya, ITC Aashirvaad Svasthi Ghee has adorned prominent locations with banners and signages. These welcoming displays can be found at key locations such as the airport, railway station, entrance of the Ram Mandir and other significant temples across the city.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony in the New Ram Mandir, is a momentous event for Hindus, signifying the establishment of the life force within a deity's idol. This transformative ritual endows the idol with divine essence, allowing it to receive prayers and bestow blessings on devotees. Believed to be enduring, the divine presence persists for eternity after the ceremony. The Ram Mandir signifies and is revered as Lord Ram's birthplace, holds immense spiritual importance and is poised to become a key pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from across the world.
Hyderabad, Jan 22 : The Telangana High Court on Monday extended the suspension of the Censor Board certificate for the political thriller 'Yyuham' of well-known film-maker Ram Gopal Varma.

Hyderabad, Jan 22 (IANS) The Telangana High Court on Monday extended the suspension of the Censor Board certificate for the political thriller aYyuhama of well-known film-maker Ram Gopal Varma.

The single judge Bench of the High Court on Monday pronounced orders, extending the suspension for another three weeks.

Justice Surepalli Nanda directed the Revising Committee of the Censor Board to once again review the movie and delete objectionable scenes. The panel was told to take a decision on issuing a new censor certificate within three weeks.

The court on January 11 had reserved orders on the petition by producer Dasari Kiran Kumar, who pleaded for vacating the interim order suspending release of the movie in theatres.

The produceras counsel A Venkatesh submitted to the court that if it believes that the film may influence the forthcoming elections in Andhra Pradesh, it may give permission for the release in Telangana.

However, the counsel of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) General Secretary Nara Lokesh, raised an objection. The film, which is allegedly defamatory towards former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP President, N Chandrababu Naidu, was scheduled to release on December 29. Naiduas son and TDP General Secretary Nara Lokesh had approached the High Court, challenging the censor certificate for the movie.

On December 28, the High Court suspended the release on the ground that the Revising Committee failed to state reasons for granting a Certificate of Exhibition, when initially the application had been rejected noting a series of irregularities.

The court observed that the Revising Committee granted the certificate though no major deletions or changes were made.

The court had directed the Central Board of Film Certification, Revising Committee, and producer of the movie to place all records pertaining to the movie before it.

The film is said to be about the conditions surrounding the passing of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy and the political entry of his son YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, who is now the Chief Minister.

Lokesh had filed a petition in the Telangana High Court challenging the certificate for the theatrical release of the movie alleging attempts to spoil the image of Chandrababu Naidu in the controversial movie.

The TDP leaderas counsel had argued that the entire film contained defamatory remarks against Chandrababu Naidu. The film allegedly portrays Naidu as the antagonist and Jagan Mohan Reddy as the protagonist.

On January 2, the filmas producer had approached a Division Bench of the High Court challenging the interim order. His counsel submitted that the film-maker has suffered loss of crores of rupees due to its release being suspended. However, the court had refused to interfere with the single judge order.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Gaza Health Ministry on Monday said the death toll from Israeli strikes since war broke out in October last has passed 25,000, media reports said.

The ministry said that 25,105 Palestinians -- many of them women and children -- had been killed and 62,681 have been wounded in Israeli strikes since October 7.

"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," the ministry said.

Media reports also said that 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," reports said.

They said that 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.

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.

--IANS

int/dan
Patna, Jan 22 : Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal (RLJD) national president Upendra Kushwaha said that he is the luckiest person who was invited by the temple trust for the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya.

Kushwaha further said that he is going there to witness this event. He also said that those who have been invited for the event and still not going are hard to understand.

"The Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla is taking place in Ayodhya and I am going there. Those who were invited for this event and still not going are hard to understand. I am the luckiest person who is going there and become a witness to this event," Kushwaha said.

When asked about the temple being partially constructed and Shankaracharya not going there, Kushwaha said: "I personally believe the temple is constructed to a certain point and further construction will take place in future. They have got the precious 'Muhurta' for the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla and hence questioning it is not a good thing."

While targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav and other leaders of opposition parties, Kuahwaha said: "The political ground of opposition leaders is no more in the country. There is no one in the country who would compete with Narendra Modi. The NDA will win the 2024 Lok Sabha election and all 40 seats of Bihar will be bagged as well. There is no dispute in seat-sharing in NDA in Bihar."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The first meeting of the Organizing Committee in connection with the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), the 19th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol, and the 6th session of the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement was held in Baku on January 22, Trend reports.

Opening the meeting, Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Chairman of the Organizing Committee Samir Nuriyev emphasized that one of the national priorities for the socio-economic development of Azerbaijan until 2030 is to become a "country of clean environment and green growth" and committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent by 2030 compared to the base year of 1990. The economic regions of Karabakh and East Zangazur, liberated from occupation, as well as the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, were declared to be the most important regions of the country.

Samir Nuriyev underlined that declaring 2024 the "Year of Solidarity for a Green World" in Azerbaijan is an integral part of purposeful and consistent state policy in the field of environmental protection in our country.

The chairman stressed that Azerbaijan constantly supports and contributes to international efforts in the fields of environmental protection and global climate change. Samir Nuriyev noted that these activities carried out by Azerbaijan are highly appreciated at the international level, and the unanimous decision to hold the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in our country, which is considered one of the largest and most authoritative in the world, was considered by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as an indicator of trust and respect for our country at the international level.

Referring to the assignment of the Head of State at the meeting on December 15, 2023, to immediately start preparatory work for COP29, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee noted that all necessary measures will be taken to hold the event at the highest level.

Nuriyev was informed that the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change will send a technical mission to Azerbaijan this week. He stated that preparatory work will be carried out based on dialogue and stressed the need to assess the needs in all relevant areas to organize COP29.

He mentioned that Azerbaijan, as a responsible member of the international community and a reliable partner, exchanges experience with the countries that hosted COP in previous years.

Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, appointed COP29 President, informed about the work done to implement the assignments given by the President of Azerbaijan in connection with COP29 and stressed that our country is ready for constructive cooperation and dialogue with states, international organizations, international non-governmental organizations, civil society, local and international media, and other partners in the process of preparation for COP29.

Then the reports of the members of the organizing committee on the issues on the agenda were listened to. At the end of the meeting, instructions were given on the activities of the Secretariat of the Organizing Committee, the President of COP29, the composition of the Chief Negotiator, the Operating Company, the finalization of the action plan related to the organization and holding of COP29, and other relevant issues.

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Jamie Foxx says he is 'finally' starting to feel like himself after health scare. Image Source: IANS News

Los Angeles, Jan 22 : The 'Django Unchained' star Jamie Foxx has returned to work for the first time since his health emergency back in April 2023.

The Hollywood icon was spotted alongside his co-star Cameron Diaz back on the set of their upcoming movie 'Back In Action', reports Mirror.co.uk.

Pictures of the pair filming showed them strolling along outside together dressed in casual clothes with Cameron, 51, wearing a cream cardigan layered over a white top and teamed with dark grey cargo trousers and white sneakers.

Jamie meanwhile also wore white sneakers as well as a dark grey sweater with navy trousers as he walked beside his fellow Hollywood star.

As per Mirror.co.uk, the 'Django Unchained' star was recently seen choking back tears as he spoke publicly about his traumatic illness for the first time.

Giving a 12 minute speech as he took to the stage at the Critics Choice Association Awards, Jamie admitted that he was left unable to walk after falling ill as he battled the tears.

He said, "You know, it's crazy, I couldn't do that six months ago - I couldn't actually walk. I'm not a clone, I'm not a clone. I know a lot of people who were saying I was cloned out there. I want to thank everybody. I've been through something, I've been through some things".
New Delhi, Jan 22 : The Delhi High Court on Monday issued an order for the suspension of the website named 'Khadi Organic,' which was falsely presenting itself as the official website for distribution of Ayodhya Ram temple prasad on various social media platforms.

The website, purportedly offering "free prasad" from the 'Prana Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, was found to be preying on the public's religious sentiments.

Justice Sanjeev Narula noted that the website exploited the goodwill of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), a statutory body dedicated to promoting textile development.

The court observed that the website deceived individuals into transferring money under the guise of an association with the KVIC.

The lawsuit alleged that the website misled Indian and foreign customers into believing they could obtain Ayodhya Ram temple prasad for free by filling a form and paying Rs. 51 and $11 respectively.

The court directed the owners of the website to take down any social media pages bearing a mark identical or deceptively similar to KVIC's registered "KHADI" mark.

Additionally, the owners were restrained from manufacturing, selling, or offering goods or services under the "KHADI ORGANIC" mark or any other mark that could infringe on or pass off as the "KHADI" mark.

Justice Narula noted that the website owners had falsely collected money from the public without providing confirmation receipts or proof of dispatching the promised "prasad."

The KVIC filed a trademark infringement suit against Ashish Singh, the individual behind "KHADI ORGANIC," and the company M/s DrillMaps India Private Limited. The court found that the mark "KHADI ORGANIC" wrongly incorporated the "KHADI" trademark, creating a false impression of affiliation with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust organising the consecration ceremony.

In granting the order, the court stated that the plaintiff has been able to demonstrate a prima facie case in their favour, and in case an ex-parte interim injunction is not granted, the plaintiff will suffer irreparable loss; balance of convenience also lies in favour of the plaintiff and against Defendants No. 1 and 2.
From Marine Drive to waiting outside restaurants, Triptii Dimris fan goes extra mile to meet. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, Jan 22 : National crush Triptii Dimri's fan went an extra mile and put in everything that it takes to meet his favourite star.

Taking to social media, influencer Prannay Joshi began posting videos expressing his fondness for Triptii Dimri and showcasing his desire to meet her.

From walking on Mumbaias Marine Drive with banners to waiting outside local restaurants and running after the actressas car to get a glimpse of her, the fan left no stone unturned.

Watching these videos, thousands of social media users urged the actress to meet her devoted fan.

Finally making her fanas wish come true, Triptii met Prannay and expressed her gratitude for such an outpour of love. The sweet encounter between the two happened after the fan got in touch with the actressas team and requested them to help him.

Upon meeting, Prannay, overjoyed with love and happiness, handed some beautiful flowers and a special card to the actress. He learned that Triptii had seen his videos and decided to meet him.

On the work front, Triptii was recently seen in the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer aAnimala. She will next be seen in Mere Mehboob Mere Sanam and Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video.
Mumbai, Jan 22 : At the stroke of 12.29 pm, lakhs of people in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra celebrated the 'Pran Prathisthan' of Lord Ram Temple in Ayodhya with processions, special poojas, chanting of prayers, hymns, ringing temple bells, cries of 'Jai Shree Ram', spraying 'gulal', bursting of crackers and distributing sweet 'prasad' and 'maha-prasad', here on Monday afternoon.

Mumbai, Jan 22 (IANS) At the stroke of 12.29 pm, lakhs of people in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra celebrated the aPran Prathisthana of Lord Ram Temple in Ayodhya with processions, special poojas, chanting of prayers, hymns, ringing temple bells, cries of aJai Shree Rama, spraying agulala, bursting of crackers and distributing sweet aprasada and amaha-prasada, here on Monday afternoon.

The celebrations were taken up in a majority of the estimated 4,500 Hindu temples dotting the city, including big and small ones, several which are very old, some very big, others very popular, a few which are very magnificent, representing or dedicated to several gods-goddesses, attracting millions of devotees daily.

Since Sunday, almost all temples in the city have been decorated with flowers with marigolds the top favourite along with an assortment comprising atulsia, lotuses, hibiscus, etc, rendering the atmosphere divine and lilting.

At night, many temples resemble a colourful vibrant spectacle with twinkling fairy lights, tiny glowing lamps of ghee-oil casting a golden warm glow, symbolising an unprecedented second Diwali to accord a grand reception to the Prince of Ayodhya, Lord Ram at his abode.

Many housing complexes in urban centres like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nashik were fully or partly decorated with flowers and lit up with multi-hued Diwali-style lanterns to mark the joyous occasion.

Maharashtra government is one of the few states that had declared a full holiday, and it enabled lakhs of families including senior citizens and children to step out to the nearest temple and join the festivities, with many from different communities also participating wholeheartedly.

Hours before the Ayodhya Pran Pratisthan rituals attended by many VIPs and celeb, including scores from Mumbaias big biz and Bollywood, many temples had initiated a special cleanliness drive, led by the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde since the past few weeks.

As per the CMas directive, each day, three major temples in each of the 24 Wards of BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) were scrubbed and deep-cleaned to wear a sparkling look ahead of the big day (January 22).

There are hundreds of Lord Ram Temples in Mumbai, but a few stand out for their unique history, traditions and the sentiments of devotees, including the Ram Mandirs in Borivali, Goregaon, Vile Parle, Dadar, Wadala, Bhuleshwar, or Walkeshwar, which witnessed massive crowds since early today.

Many temples have made special arrangements on LED screens for a live telecast of the Ayodhya ceremonies, ahom-havansa, aaartisa, special idols of Lord Ram and Sita, post-pooja aprasada and amaha-prasada (meal) for the thousands of devotees, plus a special 'maha-prasad' organised for the poor in Dharavi slums.

Some of the major temples are having festivities for three consecutive days with a host of religious, social and cultural events.

Elsewhere, in Dombivali town, 111,111 oil lamps were lit to herald the Lord Ram Temple consecration in Ayodhya, renowned chef Vishnu Manohar cooked up a staggering six tonnes of aspecial halwaa in the giant akadhaia for lakhs of devotees at the Shri Mahalakshmi Jagdamba Temple, a chariot procession in Pune, a gigantic idol of Lord Ram taken out in a lively march in Mira Road town (Thane), among many others.

Hundreds of big and small Ram Mandirs were gaily decorated with flags and festoons, lit up with oil lamps and prayers were conducted in mofussil areas of the coastal Konkan region besides tribal pockets of Thane, Palghar, Nandurbar, Gadchiroli, Chandrapur and Wardha.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under intense pressure to secure the return of captives in Gaza, media report said.

"Relatives and supporters again rallied near Netanyahu's Jerusalem residence for their return," Al Jazeera has reported.

The report said that the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum demanded Netanyahu "clearly state that we will not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped in the October debacle."

"We must advance the deal now. If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public," the report said.

Gilad Korenbloom, whose son is a captive in Gaza, said: "We are asking our government to listen, to sit down at the negotiating table, and decide whether to accept this agreement or any other that would suit Israel."

John Polin, also the father of a captive, said Israelis serve their country and in return "we expect the government to ensure our safety."

"We are asking the government to play its part, to propose an agreement to bring it to a successful conclusion and to bring the remaining hostages back alive," Polin said.

--IANS

int/dan
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel will achieve "total victory" against Hamas, media reports said.

New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel will achieve "total victory" against Hamas, media reports said.

"Israel will achieve total victory after which there will be no entity in Gaza that finances terrorism, educates for terrorism, or sends terror," Netanyahu said.

He said that Israel has brought 110 hostages and is committed to bringing them all back.

"I am working on this around the clock. But let it be clear: I reject outright the terms of surrender of the Hamas monsters," he said.

"I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over all the territory west of the Jordan [River]. As long as I am prime minister, I will continue to firmly stand by this," he said.

Earlier, Hamas had demanded an end to the conflict, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and guarantees that Hamas could stay in power.
Mumbai, Jan 22 : Superstar Nayanthara, who found herself in the middle of a controversy related to her recent film 'Annapoorni', is enjoying some much needed downtime with her kids.

The 'Jawan' actress took to her Instagram and shared pictures with her sons Uyir and Ulgham.

In the picture, the actress can be seen 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 wrote in the caption, "All of God's grace in one tiny face".

The actress shared another picture with both her sons in her arms in the stories section of her Instagram.

She used the hit track 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' performed by Jasleen Royal and Prateek Kuhad from Nitya Mehra's 2016 romantic sci-fi film 'Baar Baar Dekho' in the background of her post.

Meanwhile, Nayanthara offered an 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.

She wrote, '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."
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Amid the sounds of dhols and firecrackers, distribution of sweets, rallies and chants of 'Jai Shri Ram', Hindus in India and abroad came together to celebrate the 'Prana Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Monday.

The US, where Indian-Americans make up approximately 1.35 per cent of the population, kicked off the celebrations almost a week before the temple's consecration with massive car rallies in Houston and California.

Carrying saffron banners with images of Ram Lalla and the temple, more than 1,100 Hindus took part in a Bay Area car rally, and a huge crowd gathered at the iconic Times Square in New York, singing hymns in praise of Lord Ram.

Laddos were also distributed as 'prasad' by the members of the 'Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir' at Times Square.

In addition, the US Chapter of the VHP erected over 40 billboards in 10 states, including Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia.

Over 100 Tesla-owning Hindus gathered at Sri Bhaktha Anjaneya Temple in Maryland and arranged their cars in such a way that it formed the word "Ram'' when seen from a bird's eye view.

"This is a huge accomplishment after 500 years of struggle. Congratulations to my Hindu friends and my constituency and around the world. May you all be blessed," Congressman Rich McCormick said in a statement, greeting the Hindu community.

The event was broadcast live at approximately 300 locations across the US, including at Times Square which was lit up with vibrant colours and Lord Ram's images.

In Mauritius, where the population consists of around 48 per cent Hindus the community came together to light 'diyas' at the temples and recited the 'Ramayan Paath.' In addition, the government also announced a two-hour off to Hindu officials on Monday.

Car rallies were also organised in London as well as Sydney, amidst chants and bhajans in praise of the deity.

In London, the rally commenced from The City Pavillion on Collier Road and travelled through East London before returning to the starting point.

January 22 was declared as 'Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day' in the towns of Oakville and Brampton in Canada's Ontario province.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and his Oakville counterpart Rob Burton said the consecration "holds immense cultural, religious, and historical significance for Hindus worldwide, signifying the culmination of a centuries-old dream."

In the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago, Hindus organised cultural events and sang hymns in praise of their deity on Sunday.

In France 'Ram Rath Yatra' will start from Place De La Chapelle at 12 pm and culminate at the Eiffel Tower's, Place De Trocadero, by 3 pm.

A ceremony at the Ganesha temple in La Chapelle will include an elaborate puja, aarti, prasad distribution, and a cultural show.

In neighbouring Nepal, Janakpur, which is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Ram's wife Sita, was lit up and 1,25,000 lamps will illuminate the Janaki temple today, along with 'aartis' in praise of Lord Ram and Sita.

Ram Lalla's idol was installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the grand new temple in Ayodhya on January 18, and the rituals which began on January 16, will culminate today with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other dignitaries attending the event.
Two-state solution must be implemented to end Palestine conflict: China to UN. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Jan 22 : Chinese Permanent Representative to the United Nations Zhang Jun on Monday called upon the UN to implement the two-state solution to resolve the Palestine conflict.

"It's high time to implement the two-state solution with concrete steps, including a full membership for Palestine in the UN," Zhang Jun wrote on X, in response to Secretary-General of UN Antonio Guterres.

Earlier, Guterres had 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, are unacceptable.

"The right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognised by all," the UN Chief wrote on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has completely refused the two-state solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict proposed by various mediators.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Ukrainian forces hit a market in the west of Donetsk with a deadly artillery strike on Sunday, killing at least 27 people and injuring 25 others, local media reported on Monday.

The market was crowded when it was targeted by a barrage of 152-mm caliber and 155-mm caliber shells from the Ukrainian side, Russia's TASS news agency reported, citing local authorities of Donetsk, Xinhua news agency reported.

Among the injured, 18 were hospitalized, most of them in critical condition, the Ministry of Health of Russia said. Many of the wounded suffered severe injuries, such as penetrating wounds to vital organs and traumatic amputation of limbs.

The Russian Mission to the UN announced that the incident will be discussed at the Security Council meeting on Monday. The Russian Foreign Ministry also plans to raise the issue at the UN events, where Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be present.

--IANS

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. As a result of important efforts made by Azerbaijan during its leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to expand the organization, South Sudan, the only country on the African continent that was not a member of the organization, has joined the NAM, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

The NAM now has 121 members.

NAM's 19th summit was held from January 15 to 20, 2024, in Uganda's capital, Kampala. Azerbaijan sent a delegation to the meeting, led by Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov.

To note, the summit was attended by about 120 NAM member states and observers, as well as high-ranking officials from international organizations. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Chairman of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly Dennis Francis, Secretary General of the African Union Commission Musa Faki Mahammad, Secretary General of the Arab League Ahmed Abu al-Gheit, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations Patricia Scotland and other officials participated and spoke at the event as special guests. A representative of the Youth Organization from Uganda NAM, headquartered in Azerbaijan, also addressed the meeting.

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New Delhi, Jan 22 : Hezbollah has said that it targeted Israeli soldiers preparing to carry out a military operation inside Lebanon, media reports said.

"In support of the steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant resistance, we targeted last night with missiles an Israeli force in the vicinity of the Zarit barracks that was preparing to carry out an aggression inside Lebanese territory," said a statement quoted by Syria's state-run SANA news agency.

"The attack led to confirmed casualties among its ranks," Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Mayadeen television channel claimed.

Last week, Israeli media made a rare acknowledgment of a special forces operation in the area of Ayta al-Shab in southern Lebanon.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Jan 22 : South Korean filmmaker and industry administrator Park Kwang-su, who is considered the leader of the 'New Korean Cinema' movement, has been nominated as the next chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, following a period of behind-the-scenes turmoil.

Los Angeles, Jan 22 (IANS) South Korean filmmaker and industry administrator Park Kwang-su, who is considered the leader of the aNew Korean Cinemaa movement, has been nominated as the next chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, following a period of behind-the-scenes turmoil.

The event, however, has not yet begun the process of selecting a new festival director, reports Variety.

Park, who was an early pioneer of the Korean New Wave Cinema in the 1990s as producer and director, later shifted more towards academic and industry administrative roles.

As per Variety, he was named as the sole candidate for the role of chairman, by a sub-committee of the Busan festivalas Innovation Committee.

Park studied film at the ESEC film school in Paris, then returned to Korea to work as an assistant director to Lee Chang-Ho.

He made his own first feature in 1988, and in 1993 became the first Korean filmmaker to found his own production company. His films have garnered critical acclaim and he has received numerous domestic and international awards for his films.
Manit Joura: Will ensure to visit Ram Temple soon for darshan with my wife. Image Source: IANS News

Mumbai, Jan 22 : Actor Manit Joura has expressed joy on the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Temple in Ayodhya and shared how the temple stands not just as a symbol of religious significance but as a beacon of cultural revival and unity.

Manit added he will ensure to visit the temple with his wife to seek blessings of Lord Ram.

On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed the 'Sankalp' within the 84 seconds 'abhijit muhurat' as part of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla, in Ayodhya.

Talking about the momentous occasion, Manit, who essays the role of Rishabh in 'Kundali Bhagya' said: "I am filled with immense joy and reverence. The temple stands not just as a symbol of religious significance but as a beacon of cultural revival and unity. As I have read Ramayana, I've personally observed the transformative power of Lord Ram's virtues in navigating life's challenges."

"The construction of the temple is the strength of faith and the restoration of our cultural heritage. The way the devotees and people are enthusiastic about the Ram temple in Ayodhya, it shows how culturally united we Indians are," shared the 'Naagin 6' actor.

Manit expressed his desire to visit the temple with his wife.

"I want to see the temple and I will ensure I go there very soon for the darshan with my wife. May the inauguration of the Ram Mandir mark the dawn of a new era, fostering prosperity, justice, and harmony for our nation and the world," he added.

'Kundali Bhagya' features Shraddha Arya (as Preeta), Shakti Anand (as Karan), Manit (as Rishabh), Anjum Fakih (as Shrishti), Paras Kalnawat (as Rajveer), Sana Sayyad (as Palki) Baseer Ali (as Shaurya), Shalini Mahal (as Shanaya).

This family drama explores and brings to life a whole range of emotions as well as the deepest intricacies of human relationships.

The show airs on Zee TV.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Prepare to enter a realm where fantasy meets reality with Comic Con India, the largest pop culture celebration in the subcontinent, that is set to make waves in Hyderabad with Hyderabad Comic Con 2024. The thrilling weekend promises a never before experience for anime, gaming and pop-culture lovers as the best weekend of the year return to the city for fun and frolic!

Maruti Suzuki Arena presents Hyderabad Comic Con 2024, powered by Crunchyroll, will see every attendee receive an exclusive copy of Marvel's Infinity Gauntlet No.1 comic book along with Limited Edition DC Comics Batman Poster & a commemorative Comic Con India Bag. The event is all set to showcase comics in a big way with a slew of upcoming publishing houses/Indian artists like Indusverse, Yali Dreams Creations, Sufi Comics, Prasad Bhat, Raj Comics by Sanjay Gupta, Lilorosh, Acid Toad, Garbage Bin, Corporate comics , Bullseye Press, Bakarmax, Art of SAVIO, and Abhijeet Kini and many more along with International artists Rico Renzi and Danesh Mohiuddin who will be gracing the event.

Speaking about the thrilling weekend celebration, Jatin Varma, Founder, Comic Con India, said, "Comic Con is finally back in Hyderabad after a gap of 3 years! We cannot wait to host all the fans again. This is our biggest show in the city yet, showcasing the best of Indian comics, fan experiences, cosplay, gaming, geeky shopping and so much more. I look forward to welcoming the fans back."

On the 27th -28th January 2024, the most-awaited event will also feature The Arena (in association with The Esports Club), an 40000 sq ft gaming arena, which will have daily tournaments, Esports and popular streamers and gaming experiences. among many other exciting activities for all attendees.

Along with this, Comic Con India will also see panels and exclusive sessions with the likes of Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, Crunchyroll and leading Indian & International creators. Along with special stand up by Aakash Gupta followed by the popular Binge-O-clock duo Rohan Joshi & Sahil Shah, followed by some electrifying performances by MC Altaf, Proximity Crew, Geek Fruit, Hip Hop artist - Panther and many more, on the mainstage. While Hyderabad attendees will get a chance to witness captivating experiences with Maruti Suzuki Arena, Crunchyroll, Warner Bros India! and Hyderabad's Biggest Comic Book Store by Penguin Random House India. The event will urge pop culture geeks to go on a shopping spree with brands like Celio, Bonkers Corner, Red Wolf, Bewakoof and tons more.

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 22 : Russia on Monday said that its Su-25SM fighter jets carried out a special military operation inside Ukraine, media reports said.

The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has also released a video showing the crews of attack aircraft firing missiles at positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Krasny Liman area.

"The pilots fired 122-mm S-13 unguided missiles at an enemy stronghold and the site where enemy personnel and equipment were concentrated," the Russian Defense Ministry said.

It said that during the attack, the crews performed a pitching maneuver, during which the Su-25SMs rapidly gained altitude to fire missiles at the enemy.

--IANS

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10 predictions for EdTech and higher education ahead of India's Union Budget 2024. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Jan 22 : The need for new educational institutions and infrastructure upgrades has become critical due to the nation's steadily increasing student population. This is a good time to lay out plans and set aside funds to improve access to education throughout India in the upcoming Union Budget.

Below are the expectations ahead of Indiaas union budget 2024 focused to EdTech and higher education:

Digital education and NEP 2020 alignment

With the ed-tech industry projected to reach USD 4 billion by 2025, the budget is expected to prioritize digital education initiatives aligned with the National Education Policy 2020.

Enhancing global education relationships

Acknowledging India's strengthening global education ties, the budget could introduce benefits and support mechanisms for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).

Taxation relief for overseas education

The budget is anticipated to address the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) rate, which impacts students studying abroad. A focus on reducing TCS rates could ease financial pressures for these students.

TCS impact on educational remittances

Considering the effect of TCS on remittances for education-related expenses, the budget might propose measures to lessen this impact. This includes facilitating options like zero forex international cards, exempt from TCS up to Rs. 7 lakhs annually.

Strategies to counter TCS effects

The budget may offer guidance for parents remitting money for their children's education abroad, focusing on informed financial choices to mitigate TCS impacts on education and travel expenses.

Skill-centric learning and access in remote areas

A shift towards skill-based education, especially in underserved regions, is likely to be emphasized, leveraging technological advancements for better educational access.

Internationalization of higher education

Support for global collaboration in higher education, such as allowing foreign institutions to establish campuses in India, is anticipated.

Budget allocation and tax incentives

The education sector looks forward to reduced GST on digital educational content and services, and increased budgetary allocations for research and development.

Affordable student loans

Proposals for making student loans more accessible, aiming to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to 50 percent by 2030, are expected to be part of the budget.

Digital infrastructure investment

Enhanced investment in digital infrastructure to support online education and teaching innovation is anticipated.

(Raghwa Gopal, CEO of M Square Media)

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

--IANS

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Nagaon: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with party leaders and supporters sits in protest after he was not allowed to visit the Sri Sri Sankar Dev Satra during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Image Source: IANS News

Guwahati, Jan 22 : Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi asked whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would decide who will visit a temple in India after he was denied permission to visit the birthplace (sattra) of Vaishnav saint Srimanta Sankardeva in Assam's Nagaon District on Monday, citing possible disruption of law and order.

Gandhi said, "This is strange because Rahul Gandhi cannot go there while everyone else can visit the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva. Will PM Modi now decide who will visit a temple and when?"

He and other senior Congress leaders and supporters staged a dharna at Haibargaon on the way to Sankardev's birthplace in Batadrava, while Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi and Batadrava MLA Sibamoni Bora went to the birthplace to settle the dispute.

Gandhi told reporters that like Sankardeva, the Congress party workers and leaders also believe in bringing people together and not spreading hatred.

"Sankardeva provides us with guidance and is similar to a guru. I therefore wanted to pay my respects to him when I arrived in Assam," he said.

"We were informed on Sunday that there is a law and order situation, but earlier on January 11, we had received an invitation to visit the place," he said.

Rahul Gandhi said, "I will visit Batadrava as soon as I can. I think the whole nation should take the path that Sankardeva showed us."

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated on Sunday that he had asked Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava before the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya gets over. Soon after that the managing committee of the Sri Sankardeva Sattra announced that they would not permit the Congress leader to visit the sattra before 3 pm on Monday.

Gandhi and his group had left for the sattra early on Monday morning, but they were halted near Haibargaon by Additional District Commissioner, Lakhyajyoti Das and Nagaon SP Navaneet Mahanta and heavy security was deployed all around the sattra by the district administration.

Gandhi asked the police why they were preventing him from going to the sattra and said, "We just want to pray at the sattra. We don't want to cause any problems."

Meanwhile, Gaurav Gogoi, who went to the sattra with local MLA Bora, said that it was absolutely empty. "There was a falsehood and rumour circulated that Gandhi's visit could have resulted in a law and order problem. Himanta Biswa Sarma had put a black spot on the history of Batadrava and the legacy of Sri Sankardeva," he said.

The Congress MP added, "On behalf of Rahul, we offered prayers of peace and harmony, and all the 'pujaris' who were present on the premises extended their blessings to him. The area was completely peaceful, but the administration disseminated false information about the crowd and the state of law and order."
Washington, Jan 22 : Former US President Donald Trump has welcomed the decision of his arch-rival Florida Governor Ron Desantis dropping out of the presidential race.

This leaves only Nikki Haley in the race in New Hampshire, the 2nd early voting state.

Ron DeSantis dropped six points in NH and realised he had no chance against Trump and even Hakley was ahead of him, media reports said.

Trump's praise of DeSantis was only lukewarm as he described him as a man whom he proposed as Florida governor and became a rocket ship in 24 hours. He could never forget his disloyalty to him.

Trump's familiar ritual is to welcome those who back him after taking him on earlier. The former president avoided mocking publicly Ron DeSantis as "DeSanctimonious" as he usually does, but chose to praise him instead, which was rather unusual.

"I just want to thank Ron and congratulate him on doing a very good job," Trump said ending months of bitterness and rivalry with a man who was fancied to be his hereditary rival, minus his legal baggage.

Trump once again proved that he was the boss of GOP, that the GOP was Trump and Trump was GOP, showing his tremendous sway of the party and his supporters.

Praising DeSantis, Trump said, "He (DeSantis) was very gracious, and he endorsed me. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron." Trump described DeSantis as "a really terrific person."

Dropping out after spending a fortune on his campaign trail against the mighty republican, DeSantis said via video that he would be ending his campaign two days before New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation GOP primary.

But Trump's glee Sunday night aside, it wasn't the warmest of endorsements, media reports said.

"It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," DeSantis said, offering matter-of-fact analysis through a forced smile, without adding plaudits for Trump, ABC news quoted him as saying.

Trump showed little bother DeSantis' new approach, as he struck a tone of camaraderie as fellow political combatants. "I will tell you it's not easy," Trump said Sunday night in Rochester. "They think it's easy doing this stuff, right? It's not easy."

--IANS

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Kolkata, Jan 22 : A single-judge Bench of the Calcutta High Court on Monday directed the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) Chairman to immediately sack one of its key office-bearers for facilitating his wife in illegally getting a teaching job in a state-run school.

The Bench of Justice Biswajit Basu not only directed the WBSSC to sack its regional chairman (western zone) Sheikh Sirazuddin but also asked the state administration to initiate immediate proceedings against him after taking him into custody.

It is learnt that Sirazuddinas wife Jasmin Khatun appeared for the written examination for recruitment as a teacher in 2011, the panel for which expired in 2016. However, she got her appointment in 2019 and it was alleged that her husband played a key role in getting her that job in an illegal manner.

Recently, the Calcutta High Courtas Special Division Bench of Justice Debangsu Basak and Justice Shabbar Rashidi, which is constituted to specially hear the matter related to the multi-crore cash-for-school-job cases in West Bengal following an instruction from the Supreme Court of India, too, observed that appointments in state-run schools given to candidates enlisted in expired panels of WBSS will not be valid.

The Bench also observed that the services of the candidates being appointed from the list of an expired panel will ultimately have to be terminated.

This is applicable for both teaching staff in the secondary and higher secondary level as well as non-teaching staff in the Group C and Group D categories.

To recall, following an earlier order of the Calcutta High Court, WBSSC withdrew appointment letters of many candidates on the same grounds. A section of the candidates challenged that at the Supreme Court. However, the apex court returned the matter back to the Calcutta High Court, following which the Special Division Bench was constituted to hear the matter on a fast track basis.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : A 49-year-old man was arrested from Kerala for allegedly duping people on the pretext of sending them abroad on fake visas and passport, a Delhi Police official said on Monday.

The accused was identified as Mujeeb P.P., a resident of district Malappuram, Kerala and a non-bailable warrant was also issued against the accused.

The arrest of the mastermind behind the fake visa racket came two years after the IGI airport police had arrested two agents and a passenger travelling on a fake Spain visa in 2019.

"In 2019, a case was registered in which it was alleged that one passenger, Vishal Khullar, a resident of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, carrying a passport valid up to August 29, 2026, was given departure immigration clearance to Madrid (Spain) on the strength of Schengen Visa valid from March 2, 2019 to April 2, 2019. Later, during scrutiny of travel documents of the passenger at boarding gate, the aforesaid Schengen Visa sticker affixed on his passport was detected as counterfeit by Air India security staff," said the Deputy Commissioner of Police (IGI) Usha Rangnani.

Subsequently, the visa was confirmed to be counterfeit by the Security, Investigation & Fraud Prevention Cell (NR), Air India and the German ALO at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, New Delhi.

During the probe of the case, a non-bailable warrant was issued against Mujeeb P.P. and he was recently arrested from his native place Kuttipuram, district Malappuram.

"He was produced before the Magistrate of District Courts Tirur, Malappuram, Kerala and on transit remand he was brought to Delhi and one day police custody remand has been obtained," said the DCP.

On interrogation, the accused disclosed that he was working on commission basis along with other agents.

"He was receiving Rs 50,000 for each target/victim. He further admitted to their crime and disclosed that he along with his associates started cheating people in order to earn easy money so as to fulfill their expenses for a luxurious lifestyle," said the DCP.

"Further efforts are being made to scrutinise their bank accounts and to trace their possible involvement in other similar complaints/cases also," said the official.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The 19th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was held in the capital of Uganda, Kampala, from January 15 through 20, 2024, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov led Azerbaijan's delegation at the summit.

The final document of the 19th NAM summit, which includes several crucial items for Azerbaijan, was adopted during the occasion.

The heads of state and government of NAM member states expressed solidarity in the document with Azerbaijan's rehabilitation, reconstruction, and reintegration activities in conflict-affected territories, and noted that the problem of unexploded ordnance and mines creates obstacles in these territories, calling for international assistance.

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Sultanpur, Jan 22 : A 65-year-old woman has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Sultanpur for allegedly murdering her six-year-old granddaughter, police said.

According to police, accused Sudama Devi was angry over the public humiliation she suffered at the hands of her daughter-in-law Pooja.

Sudama Devi took the girl for a walk on Saturday evening. Later, villagers spotted Sudama pushing the girl into a well.

With the assistance of police, the girl was retrieved and rushed to a local health centre but the doctors failed to revive her.

The victimas father Santosh filed a complaint against Sudama Devi following which she was arrested.

Kadipur SHO, Ashok Kumar Singh said a long-standing tension between Sudama and Pooja was the prime reason behind the gruesome act.

"Neighbours recounted an argument between Pooja and Sudama in the morning. Pooja's alleged derogatory comments about Sudama's son and family, made in front of onlookers, seemed to have fuelled the womanas rage. Hours later, Sudama left the house with the girl and committed the crime," said the SHO.

Santosh and Pooja have a son,10, and another daughter, 4.
Hyderabad, Jan 22 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Monday returned from his week-long visit to three nations.

H. Venugopal Rao, who was Sunday appointed as advisor to the government on protocol and public relations, welcomed the Chief Minister at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.

Revanth Reddy along with minister for information technology and industries D. Sridhar Babu and some officials participated in the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

The Chief Minister later visited London while Dubai was the last stop of his foreign visit, the first visit after assuming office as the Chief Minister last month.

The government claimed that the visit was highly successful as the state signed investment deals worth over Rs 40,000 crore with various companies on the sidelines of WEF conclave. This is nearly double the amount the state could muster last year at Davos.

The investment concluded positively with Adani Group, JSW, Web Werks, Tata Technologies, BL Agro, Surgical Instruments Group Holdings, Godi Energy, Aragen Life Sciences, Innovera Pharmaceuticals, QCentrio, Systra, Uber and o9 Solutions, have a new potential of creating over 2,500 jobs directly.

In London and Dubai, the focus of Revanth Reddyas visit was on his plans for rejuvenation of Musi River in Hyderabad.

His visit to London was aimed at learning about the management of river Thames, understanding and gathering insights from its management and collating best practices.

He held discussions with officials and experts of the Port of London Authority, the governing body of river Thames.

Revanth Reddy on Sunday visited Dubai Waterfront. 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.
Rampur: SP MLA Abdullah Azam, son of SP MP Mohd Azam Khan, who was taken into custody for allegedly preventing the police from doing its duty, in Uttar Pradesh's Rampur on July 31, 2019. The police, on Tuesday, had carried out raids at Mohammad Ali J. Image Source: IANS News

Rampur : , Jan 22 (IANS) Former Samajwadi Party MLA Azam Khan's son, Abdullah Azam, is facing more legal trouble as an FIR has been lodged against him for allegedly engaging in illicit sale of the Kosi River land in Rampur.

Rampur (UP), Jan 22 (IANS) Former Samajwadi Party MLA Azam Khanas son, Abdullah Azam, is facing more legal trouble as an FIR has been lodged against him for allegedly engaging in illicit sale of the Kosi River land in Rampur.

Following orders from the Enforcement Directorate, a probe into the properties owned by Azam and his family is underway.

Rampur District Magistrate, Ravindra Kumar initiated a probe into residential plotting carried out by Abdullah and his associates in Benzirpura Ghatampur Village.

Lekhpal Sanjay Kumar discovered the land was originally registered as ariver landa and falls within the flood plain zone.

According to the Allahabad High Court directives, residential plots are prohibited in such areas.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 22 : Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday expressed displeasure over 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony held in Ayodhya by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"We now have come to a point when the inauguration of a religious place of worship in the country is being celebrated as a state event," he said.

He said that those who have pledged to preserve and protect the Constitution, they should reaffirm their commitment to its secular character.

"By declining to participate in the event, we have upheld our Constitutional responsibilities," the Chief Minister said.

He said that secularism has been the soul of the democratic republic of India. "Secularism is our identity as a nation right from the days of our national movement. Those belonging to different faiths and are not part of any religion had taken an active part in our freedom struggle. This nation belongs to all people and all sections of Indian society, in equal measure," the Chief Minister said.

He said that religion is a private affair and the Indian Constitution has minced no words in stating that all persons are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and have the right to freely profess, practice and propagate religion.

"As those who have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution of India, we should ensure that every person within our territories enjoys this right in equal measure. We cannot be promoting one religion above all others, or demean other religions," the Chief Minister said.

He said that India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru has said that 'Indian secularism means the separation of religion and state'.

"We even have a strong tradition of maintaining that separation. However, of late, the line that demarcates religion and state seems to be getting thinner and thinner. This is a major departure from the times when our constitutional office bearers have been cautioned from taking part in religious events, as it would cast aspersions on our credentials as a secular state," the Chief Minister said.

He said that let this serve as an opportunity to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : The Delhi High Court was informed on Monday that Cine1 Private Limited and Super Cassettes Industries Private Limited (T-Series) have amicably resolved their disputes regarding the alleged violation of contractual obligations related to the recent film 'Animal'.

The suit was filed by Cine1 Studios Private Ltd seeking a stay on the release of the movie, starring Ranbir Kapoor, on OTT platforms.

The studio, a key producer of the movie, alleged that Super Cassettes Industries Private Ltd (T-Series) breached their agreement, denying Cine1 its rightful profit share and intellectual property rights.

The legal counsel for Cine1 and T-Series told the court on Monday that a settlement agreement has been reached, paving the way for the movie's release on OTT platforms.

Justice Sanjeev Narula noted the submissions and directed both parties to officially bring the settlement agreement on record. The court will further consider the matter on January 24 for disposal.

The high court on January 18 issued summons in response to a suit.

Justice Narula, upon admitting the suit, had issued summons to the defendants and granted them time to submit a written statement.

The court had directed the defendants to file an affidavit of admission/denial of the plaintiff's documents along with the written statement, saying that without this affidavit, the written statement would not be accepted.

The plaintiff was given the liberty to file replications within 15 days of receiving the written statement.

The court had specified that along with any replications, the plaintiff must file an affidavit of admission/denial of the defendants' documents, without which the replications would not be considered.

Senior advocate Sandeep Sethi, representing Cine1, claimed that T-Series failed to share financial details and acted without Cine1's approval in incurring expenses and promoting/releasing the film.

"I have a long relationship with them but they have no respect for the agreement. I had the regard for the relationship and the sanctity of the contract, therefore, I did not rush to court," he had argued earlier.

T-Series, represented by senior advocate Amit Sibal, had argued that Cine1 had relinquished intellectual property rights through an August 2, 2022 amendment, receiving Rs 2.6 crore in return.

"This amendment has been concealed. They got Rs 2.6 crore. They have not put a pie in the movie and yet got Rs 2.6 crore," he had contended.

Cine1 stressed on T-Series' non-compliance with credit and publicity agreements, seeking a stay on 'Animal' being released on OTT until the terms are met.
New York, Jan 22 : Ear infections, a common childhood experience, can potentially impair hearing with fluid building up behind the eardrum and lead to delay in language development, warns a new study.

New research from the University of Florida scientists reveals that when ear infections become chronic, this repeated, temporary hearing loss can lead to deficits in auditory processing and language development in children, years later. They suggested parents take these infections seriously.

"Ear infections are so common that we tend to dismiss them as having no long-term effect. We should take all ear infections seriously," said Susan Nittrouer, lead researcher and Professor of speech, language, and hearing sciences in the College of Public Health and Health Professions at the varsity.

"Parents should be aware that their child may have some middle ear fluid without it being painful and work with their doctor to monitor their child closely," she added.

In the study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, the team studied the auditory processing and language development of 117 children from ages 5 to 10 years, both with and without a history of chronic ear infections in early childhood.

On average, children with several ear infections before three years of age had smaller vocabularies and a harder time matching similar sounding words than children with few or no ear infections.

They also had difficulty detecting changes in sounds, a sign of problems in their brain's auditory processing centres.

One takeaway, Nittrouer says, is for parents, physicians, and speech pathologists to continue monitoring children long after the last preschool earache fades away. Some language deficits may only reveal themselves in later grades.

"As children go through school, the language they're required to use becomes more complex," said Nittrouer.

Treating ear infections early can help prevent the fluid buildup that hurts language development, according to Nittrouer.

If ear infections are common and fluid does build up, tubes placed temporarily in the eardrum can help drain the fluid and restore hearing, which should lead to less risk of delay in the development of the central auditory pathways and fewer problems acquiring language.
Haveri, Jan 22 : With the arrest of three more persons by the Karnataka police in connection with the Hangal alleged gang rape by moral police vigilantes, the number of arrests made in the case rose to 14, the police said on Monday.

Twenty six-year-old Ismail Hubballi, 27-year-old Riyaz Savikere and 24-year-old Niyaz Dargah were arrested on Sunday. The state government had come under pressure as the Bharatiya Janata Party had launched a series of attacks on the Congress government and charged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's government is hushing up the victim and the case as well.

The Karnataka BJP unit had staged a massive protest in Haveri led by Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka and former CM Basavaraj Bommai and demanded that the probe be handed over to a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The victim of moral policing had released a video on January 11 in which she had said that she was repeatedly raped by vigilantes in Haveri district of Karnataka.

The homemaker was dragged out of a hotel after being seen with a person from another religion and beaten up in Hangal town on January 8.

The victim who belongs to the minority community stated that when she was at the hotel, a gang of five to six men barged inside, questioned her and forcibly took her away on their bikes.

They took her to an isolated place and assaulted her brutally and later all of them raped her. They asked her to get into a car and the driver also raped her.

Her ordeal did not end here. She was taken to two to three other places and gang raped. The accused later took her to the national highway where she boarded a bus.

"I want them to be punished," she demanded in the video in an appeal to the police.

The victim's husband also appeared before the media and stated that his wife was gang-raped by the vigilantes.

"They kidnapped and inhumanly attacked my wife. She revealed this brutality to a family member. She had not told me," he stated.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Israeli Major General Noam Tibon has said that time has come to negotiate with the Hamas group over a possible hostage deal to bring back the Israelis, media reports said.

"It's time to bring them back otherwise, they will all come back in coffins or not at all," Noam Tibon told an Israeli public radio station.

"We will have sent for generations to come a message to the citizens of Israel that they live in an insecure state, and a message to mothers who send their children to the army, that if your child falls into captivity, he will probably not return, and this is not overlooked, so it must be concluded. A deal now," Tibon said.

Earlier, a one week ceasefire from November 24 to December 1 last year was observed between Hamas and Israel in which prisoners were exchanged by both sides.

On October 7, last year, Hamas attacked the southern parts of Israel killing at least 1200 people, taking over 200 people as hostages. Hamas also released 105 Israeli hostages during the one week truce between the conflicting parties.

Israel has killed nearly 25,105 Palestinians since October 7 while injuring 62,681-- mostly infants and women.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : A 19-year-old teenager, who was released from prison in December, was again arrested for snatching sprees in south Delhi, an official said on Monday, adding that he used to especially target women moving alone.

New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) A 19-year-old teenager, who was released from prison in December, was again arrested for snatching sprees in south Delhi, an official said on Monday, adding that he used to especially target women moving alone.

The accused was identified as Dhanus, a resident of Madangir. He was previously involved in 17 cases of robbery, snatching and theft registered across the city.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Ankit Chauhan said that to curb the incidents of snatching in the South District, a team of the Special Staff was specifically tasked to gather key inputs through analysis of CCTV footage, sensitise the local informers and collect human as well as technical intelligence.

They were also directed to keep a watch on criminals released from jail, out on bail or on parole.

"While the team was working on the recent cases, they collected the footage of the CCTV cameras installed near the incident sites and analysed it. They got key inputs and dug out some more important inputs through manual as well as technical surveillance," said the DCP.

"The team worked on all aspects of the cases. The movements/routes of the suspected snatchers were identified on the basis of CCTV footage, which led the team to the face of an accused person indulging in an incident of snatching," the DCP added.

The photo of the accused person was developed and circulated through the police network to get his identity.

"Local sources were deployed and human intelligence was collected. The efforts of the team bore fruit when through manual intelligence the accused was identified as Dhanus. Through surveillance and technical analysis the location of the accused was zeroed down," said the DCP.

On January 20, a raid was conducted and Dhanus was arrested from Dakshinpuri.

"Four mobile phones were recovered from his possession and on checking they were found to be snatched/stolen," the DCP added.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : Israeli protesters on Monday gather outside the Knesset demanding fresh elections, media reports said.

Israeli media reports said that the protesters were calling the coalition parties in power as traitors who have given up on the hostages.

"Outgoing Labor party chairwoman Merav Michaeli came out to demonstrate along with the anti-Netanyahu protesters in order to move this government," the media reports said.

There has been a growing anger among the Israelis over the delay on part of the Netanyahu government to get the hostages released from the Hamas captivity.

At least, over 100 Israelis are still in Hamas captivity while diplomatic efforts are on in Doha to get the hostages released.

Earlier, a one week ceasefire from November 24 to December 1, last year, was observed between Hamas and Israel in which prisoners were exchanged by both sides.

On October 7, last year, Hamas attacked the southern parts of Israel killing at least 1200 people and taking over 200 people as hostages. Hamas also released 105 Israeli hostages during the one week truce between the conflicting parties.

Israel has killed nearly 25,105 Palestinians since October 7 while injuring 62,681-- mostly infants and women.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev met with Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers.

During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the successful growth of Azerbaijani-Russian friendly relations in a variety of areas.

Both sides noted that the two countries have a fairly broad legal framework. The results of the implementation of the roadmaps for the growth of important sectors of Azerbaijani-Russian cooperation until 2024 were warmly praised, and mutual interest in continuing this collaboration was stated.

Thus, during 20182023, covering the period of the roadmaps' implementation, practical steps were taken to simplify trade and diversify the flow of goods, improve customs and border crossing infrastructure, increase the volume of cargo transportation across the state border, as well as expand the capacity of checkpoints and many other areas.

The measures taken resulted in stable dynamics of Azerbaijani-Russian trade and economic relations; the trade turnover increased more than twice compared to 2017, and last year it exceeded $4.3 billion.

In addition, in 2023, the volume of total cargo transportation between the two countries increased by 87 percent compared to 2017, including the volume of transit cargo, which increased almost four times. The volume of freight traffic along the North-South international transport corridor increased by 44 percent compared to 2017.

At the meeting, the importance of the successful projects implemented in the sphere of mutual investment was emphasized, and the sides exchanged views on the prospects of expanding cooperation in this direction.

The level of cooperation in different directions of the industrial sphere was highly appreciated, and it was noted that this cooperation also covers the territories liberated from occupation.

The sides expressed satisfaction with the development of cooperation in the field of transport and logistics, noting that there are wide opportunities in this direction. Concerning the importance of the international transport corridor "North-South," the importance of joint efforts for the corridor to work at full capacity was emphasized.

Improvement of energy, agricultural, customs, and border infrastructure between Azerbaijan and Russia, prospects of development of cooperation in humanitarian and many other spheres were widely discussed at the meeting.

In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev and Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk signed the Roadmap for the development of key areas of Azerbaijani-Russian cooperation for 20242026,.

The Road Map envisages the adoption of concrete steps to develop cooperation in trade, economics and investment, transportation, industrial, agrarian, energy, tourism, humanitarian, and social spheres, as well as in the fields of food security, innovation, and information technology.

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New Delhi, Jan 22 : Global technology brand Lenovo on Monday launched a 16-inch gaming laptop Legion 9i in India with a self-contained liquid-cooling system and a forged carbon A-cover.

The Lenovo Legion 9i is launched at a starting price of Rs 449,990 and is now available for purchase, the company said in a statement.

The AI-tuned laptop is designed for gamers and creators, with heavy graphic workflow requirements.

The 2.56-kg Lenovo Legion 9i offers a 13th Gen Intel Core 'i9-13980HX' processor, up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU, and 32GB of over-clocked 6400Mhz DDR5 Dual Channel RAM.

"It is the first laptop in the Lenovo Legion ecosystem with an integrated liquid-cooling system boosted by Lenovo's proprietary second-generation LA 2 AI chip," said Ashish Sikka, Director,Category and Strategy, Lenovo India.

The display features variable refresh rates up to 165Hz, with vibrant DCI-P3 and sRGB colour fidelity with the pre-installed X-Rite software, tuned for both gamers and creators.

Furthermore, Tobii Horizon software provides gearless head tracking that gives players an extra level of immersion, and the huge 99.99Whr battery fuels longer gaming sessions.

With 'Nahimic by SteelSeries 3D', players can get an extra edge in games through immersive 3D audio.

Like other Legion and LOQ laptops, the Legion 9i also comes with Windows 11 as well as 3 months access to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Legion Arena, said the company.
London, Jan 22 : To comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union (EU), Meta on Monday announced that the users will be able to unlink their Instagram and Facebook accounts as well as other services.

The Mark Zuckerberg-run company said that it is offering more choices to people using Instagram and Facebook in the EU, European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland about how they can use its services and features, as the DMA enters into force in March.

The changes mean that users in the EU will be able to use Meta's services without their information being shared between them.

People who have already chosen to connect their Instagram and Facebook accounts will be able to continue to connect their accounts so that their information will be used across their Instagram and Facebook accounts.

"They can also manage their Instagram and Facebook accounts separately so that their information is no longer used across accounts," said Tim Lamb, Director, Competition and Regulatory, Meta.

People using Facebook Messenger can choose whether they wish to continue using Facebook Messenger with their Facebook account, or if they would prefer to create a stand-alone new Messenger account.

People who choose to create a new Messenger account without their Facebook information will be able to use Messenger's core service offering such as private messaging and chat, voice and video calling, Lamb informed.

Those using Facebook Marketplace can choose between a Marketplace experience that uses their Facebook information or not.

"For people who choose to use their Facebook information for their Marketplace experience, the current Marketplace experience will remain. People who choose not to use their Facebook information for their Marketplace experience will still be able to browse listings and to buy and sell items," the company informed.

Over the next few weeks, people will receive notifications that will inform them about their ability to choose whether they would like to share information between Meta services.

People who play games on Facebook can choose between a gaming experience that uses their Facebook information or an experience without their Facebook information.

"People in the EU, EEA and Switzerland also have the ability to use Instagram and Facebook for free with ads, or subscribe to stop seeing ads," said the company.

If people subscribe to stop seeing ads, their information will not be used for ads. This choice rolled out in November last year.

The DMA Act seeks to promote contestability and fairness in digital markets.

"We are committed to continue working hard to ensure that Meta's products in the EU comply with the DMA and deliver value to people," said the company.
Singapore, Jan 22 : A 53-year-old Indian-origin man was sentenced to seven years and four months' jail on Monday for cheating 20 people, including his family friends and acquaintances, of SG$ 2.5 million ($ 1.8 million) in Singapore.

Murali Krishnan Naidu was earlier convicted of 17 counts of cheating linked to nine people, and another 43 charges, including those involving the remaining victims, were considered during sentencing, The Straits Times reported.

In an investment scam between 2008 and 2013, Naidu told victims that their money would be invested in a money lending business set up by his wife.

According to court documents, most of the victims had drawn from their retirement savings to fund the "investments".

The prosecution said that in August 2006, Naidu's wife was the sole proprietor of a licensed money lending company known as San Tee Credit (STC) where he was a manager. Having worked with a money lending company before, Naidu knew that it was common for such companies to borrow cash from investors through investment agreements.

A 69-year-old woman, who was one of Naidu's victims, had entered into six investment agreements totalling SG$335,000 with STC, having funded the investments with her life savings.

According to the prosecution, Naidu made false representations to the victims by saying their monies would be invested in STCas money lending business. The victims were promised returns between 2.5 per cent and 3 per cent that would be paid out monthly, along with a repayment of their investment capital one year from the date of the investment agreement.

Naidu then induced his victims to hand over their money, but completely stopped paying dividends to them in early 2013, and to date, it is unclear how he utilised the victimsa money, the court was told.

Screenings by the Registry of Moneylenders showed STC had not concluded any moneylending transactions between 2011 and 2013.

"Despite the absence of any business activities undertaken by STC, the accused continued to pay the requisite fees to renew STCas moneylending licence with the Registry of Moneylenders.

"This fortified the accusedas representations that STC was a legitimate and live money lending business," the prosecutors informed the court.

The court documents did not say what happened to STC after 2013 and neither did they disclose how the offences came to light, which led to Naidu's charging in the court in 2019. Court documents also did not disclose how the offences came to light.

The prosecutors had urged the court to sentence him to at least seven years and 10 monthsa jail, stating that his offences had involved a high degree of premeditation and planning. For each count of cheating, an offender can be jailed for up to 10 years and fined in Singapore.

--IANS

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Kochi, Jan 22 : The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed the bail application of Laila Bhagaval Singh, one of the key accused in the October 2022 human sacrifice case.

The case pertaining to two women being murdered, allegedly as part of a human sacrifice ritual, came to light in the State when the dismembered bodies of the victims were recovered from the house of Laila and her husband Bhagaval Singh at Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta District.

Three people a" including the husband of Laila and another so-called agent Mohammed Shafi who brought the two victims to the house of the couple were arrested.

They have been in judicial custody since then. The victims were lottery ticket sellers in Ernakulam District.

The court pointed out that bail cannot be given after going through the case and the role played by the petitioner.

The court said it would be sending a wrong message to similar criminals. While dismissing the bail plea, the court asked the trial court to conduct a speedy trial.
Chennai, Jan 22 : Senior BJP leader and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday termed the DMK government in Tamil Nadu "anti-Hindu" for "denying" live telecasting of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram temple.

Sitharaman said that the "the repression saga in Tamil Nadu continues".

In a series of posts from her X handle on Monday morning, she said that people of Karunilam village in Chengalpattu district (not more than 200 houses) wanted to celebrate the pran pratishtha ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir and watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi but they were told that unless the District Collector gives permission they shall not install the LED screen.

"Inside the famous Kamakshi Kovil, which is privately held, where bhajans have started from 08:00hrs, LED screens are being removed with plain-clothed policemen. In a temple, privately held, worshippers watching the Prime Minister perform prana prathishta is a serious infringement on our right to worship. The DMK government in TN completely fails to protect citizens rights. Anti-Hindu DMK now bares its hatred for PM Narendra Modi with police force and suppresses peoples aspirations," she said in a post.

"In Kanchipuram district alone, 466 LED screens were arranged for live telecast of Narendra Modi in Ayodhya. In more than 400 of those places the police has either confiscated the screens or deployed force to prevent the live telecast. LED suppliers are fleeing with fear. The Anti-Hindu DMK is hitting at small businesses..." the Union Finance Minister said in another post.

Sitharaman said: "Annadhanam is prevented in temples like Sriperumbudur Selva Vinayagar Temple held by HR&CE, privately held Molachur Karumariamman Temple and again privately held Selvizhimangalam Jambodai Perumal Temple by the TN Police. Anti Hindu DMK government continues repression using police."

"In the Thovalai Murugan Temple , located in Nagercoil, permission is being denied to put up LED screens for live telecast...," she said in another post.
Bengaluru, Jan 22 : Karnataka had a big role in the Ram Janmabhoomi agitation as Lord Ram had a connection with this state. The next aim is to develop the birthplace of Anjaneya, said former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.

Speaking to the media after offering a special puja at the Maruti Temple here on Monday in connection with the Pran Pratishtapana of Shri Ram in Ayodhya, he said today is a day of devotion in the history of the country.

The people's verdict is the final judgement in a democracy. Doing the work of the people is the biggest responsibility of a government and this work has been done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with complete dedication. The Pran Pratishthapan has happened in Ayodhya with full devotion and a big thanks to the crores of people who took part in the Ram Mandir stir.

The former CM said Karnataka had a big role in the Ram Janmabhoomi agitation as Lord Ram had a connection with the state. The birthplace of Anjaneya (Hanuman), Anjanadri was located here. Lord Ram was complete only with Anjaneya. The incumbent government should develop the Anjaneya birthplace. The BJP's mission was also to improve Anjanadri.

The BJP leader said establishment of Ram Rajya would be their main aim. This was the 'Amrit Kal' and they were fortunate to be part of this historic occasion. Politics would not be added to this most sacred day.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : The Delhi High Court on Monday ordered the inspection of an ashram founded by self-styled godman Virender Dev Dixit, who has been absconding for several years in multiple rape cases.

The order came in response to a petition by the mother of a woman who resided in the ashram, Adhyatmik Vishwa Vidhyalaya, allegedly under the influence of individuals associated with Dixit.

Expressing concern over the allegations of rape against Dixit, the court directed the state to file a status report in the matter.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the court that two FIRs had been registered against Dixit for alleged rape, and efforts were underway to apprehend him.

The court observed that the ashram had only five girls, including the petitioner's daughter, and directed the state to conduct an inspection of the ashram in collaboration with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP).

The bench headed by Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and also comprising Justice Manoj Jain, ordered a fresh status report to be filed.

During the proceedings, the petitioner's daughter, who is 18 years old, was produced before the court. It was revealed that she was residing in the ashram voluntarily.

The court listed the case for further hearing on January 24 and asked the petitioner's daughter not to leave the ashram in the meantime. The state was also directed to present her during the next hearing.

The CBI on November 24 last year, told the court that it is working on locating and arresting Dixit.

Earlier, the court had expressed satisfaction with the attempts and progress made by CBI in the matter.

On perusing the probe agency's status report earlier, it had observed that the CBI was making "earnest efforts" to comply with the court's directions.

The status report was filed in a sealed cover, and the court was told that the accused seems to be outside India.

"We will arrest him soon. We have taken help of Interpol," CBI's counsel had told.

The court had then also asked the investigating agency to file a fresh status report.

Earlier, the high court had granted the agency permission to freeze the bank accounts of Dixit.

A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma (now elevated to SC) and Justice Sanjeev Narula had expressed satisfaction with the efforts made by the CBI to locate and apprehend Dixit.

Besides the present case, a petition was filed in 2017 by NGO Foundation for Social Empowerment, which alleged that Dixit had illegally confined several minor girls and women at his "spiritual university" and that the girls were not allowed to meet their parents.

Another petition by an aged couple alleges their "highly educated daughter" was misled into living there and was harbouring "overvalued ideas".

Notably, the CBI had identified certain bank accounts linked to the fugitive.

The court had commended the CBI's ongoing efforts and allowed them to proceed with freezing the bank accounts in accordance with the law. It granted the CBI an additional six weeks to continue their actions and listed the matter for next hearing in November.

On May 31, the court had directed the CBI to take steps to apprehend Dixit. It was brought to the court's attention that Dixit or his followers were uploading videos on various platforms, including YouTube and social media, despite him being a fugitive.

The high court had instructed the CBI to locate Dixit and investigate accusations of illegal confinement, with reports indicating that girls and women were being kept in inhumane conditions behind metal doors within a fortress-like ashram surrounded by barbed wire.

In 2022, the court had asked the ashram to justify why it should not be taken over by the Delhi government and expressed doubts about whether the inmates were living there voluntarily.

It had said that no institution had the right to violate the fundamental rights of its inhabitants
New Delhi, Jan 22 : A Indian Army contingent, comprising 25 personnel, has reached Egypt to take part in the 2nd edition of India-Egypt Joint Special Forces Exercise 'Cyclone', the Defence Ministry said on Monday.

According to a ministry official, the exercise, being conducted at Anshas from January 22 to February 1, will focus on tactical interactions, improvised explosive device and hostage rescue scenarios.

The first edition of the exercise was conducted last year in India.

The Indian contingent is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Egyptian contingent, also comprising 25 personnel is being represented by Egyptian Commando Squadron and Egyptian Airborne Platoon, the official said.

As per the official, the aim of the exercise is to acquaint both sides with each otheras operating procedures against the backdrop of special operations in desert/semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter.

Exercise Cyclone is designed to develop bilateral military cooperation and strengthen bond between two armies through conduct of discussions and rehearsal of tactical military drills, the official said, adding that the exercise will involve planning and execution of special operations in sub-conventional domain and conducted in three phases.

While the first phase will include military exhibitions and tactical interactions, the second will focus on training on IEDs, counter-IED, and combat first aid.

The third and final phase will encompass a joint tactical exercise based on fighting in built-up area and hostage rescue scenarios.

The exercise will provide an opportunity to both the contingents to strengthen their bond and share best practices, the official said, adding that will also act as a platform to achieve shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations between two friendly nations.
Gurugram, Jan 22 : A 37-year-old man was arrested for allegedly performing an illegal abortion and establishing a medical practice with a fake certificate, the police said.

According to the police, the accused Mohammad Saurabh had attained his MBBS degree in China. He was allegedly practicing illegally since 2014 without registration with the Medical Council of India (MCI). "The accused completed MBBS from China but failed to clear MCI exam here in India which is necessary for medical practice in India. He then made a fake MCI certificate and started practice at a hospital from 2014 to 2017 and also opened his clinic in the Bhavani Enclave area which he closed later. Currently, he is running his clinic by the name 'God Bless Health' at Nathupur village in Gurugram," said Inspector Sandeep Kumar, SHO of Sector-9 police station.

The SHO said the matter came to light after a woman filed a rape case on the pretext of marriage against a man identified as Naveen in November last year. The man also aborted the child of the woman with the help of the alleged doctor.. The police had arrested the man but were searching for the doctor who performed the abortion. "The accused was treating patients without legal medical documents. He was engaged in the business of illegal termination of pregnancy and illegally practising as a registered medical practitioner. The accused will be taken on police remand for further proceedings," the SHO said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with the delegation headed by the Rector of the National Defense University of the Republic of Turkiye Professor Erhan Afyonju, who is on a visit to our country, on January 22, Trend reports, referring to the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry.

Colonel General Hasanov welcomed the guests and stated that bilateral military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey is built on friendly and fraternal relations. The Defense Minister expressed his happiness with the high degree of collaboration with brotherly Turkey in military education and other areas. The minister stressed the positive influence of mutual experience sharing in the field of military education on servicemen's knowledge and skills development.

Professor Afyonju thanked the Minister of Defense for the warm reception and hospitality, and congratulated him on Azerbaijan's restoration of sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as military successes. The continuance of improvements in military education, as well as reciprocal visits in this area, were stressed.

The sides emphasized the importance of studying the military history and heroic chronicles of both countries and had a thorough exchange of views on several issues of mutual interest.

Then the delegation headed by Afyonju met with First Deputy Defense Minister - Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijani Army Colonel-General Kerim Veliyev and Advisor to the Defense Minister Colonel-General Bakhtiyar Ersai. During the meetings, it was noted that there are ample opportunities between Azerbaijan and Turkiye to expand cooperation in the field of military education.

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Chennai, Jan 22 : Tamil Nadu Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE), PK Sekar Babu, on Monday accused Governor RN Ravi of joining hands with the BJP to defame the state government despite getting a red carpet treatment during his visit to the Kodandaramaswamy temple.

He was responding to the statement by the Governor that during his (Governoras) darshan at the Kodandaramaswamy temple, in West Mambalam, Chennai, he had seen fear in the eyes of the temple priests.

The Tamil Nadu unit of the BJP was at loggerheads with the ruling DMK Government over the aPrana Pratishtaa function at Ayodhya.

The Governor had in a social media post on Monday stated that the premises of the Kodandaramaswamy temple exuded a sense of repression when the entire country was celebrating the consecration of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

Sekar Babu in a response to the minister said that the Governor of Tamil Nadu was given a red carpet welcome at the Kodandaramaswamy temple at West Mambalam.

Sekar Babu further said that the state government had made all arrangements for a smooth darshan for the Governor. He added that while the state government did everything for the Governor, he had joined hands with the BJP and tried to portray the state government as against spiritualism.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : The 11th edition of India-Kyrgyzstan joint Special Forces exercise 'Khanjar' commenced on Monday at the Special Forces Training School in Himachal Pradesh's Bakloh, an official said.

The Defence Ministry official said that the exercise, an annual event conducted alternatively in both countries is scheduled to be conducted from January 22 to February 3.

The Indian Army contingent, comprising 20 personnel, is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyz contingent, comprising 20 personnel, is represented by personnel of its Scorpion Brigade, the official added.

The aim of the exercise is to exchange experiences and best practices in counter-terrorism and Special Forces operations in built-up areas and mountainous terrain under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter.

It will also emphasise on developing Special Forces skills, and advanced techniques of insertion and extraction, the official said, adding that the exercise will provide an opportunity for both the sides of fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism.

The exercise will also accord opportunity to showcase capabilities of cutting edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations, the official added.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Jan 22 : The Delhi High Court on Monday asked Union Minister and BJP leader Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to respond to an appeal filed by former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot against his summoning in a criminal defamation complaint by the former.

Shekhawat has accused Gehlot of making "misleading statements" in connection with the Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society scam in Rajasthan.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has listed the matter for hearing on March 6, granting two weeks time to Shekhawat to file his reply.

The judge asked the trial court to adjourn the case pending with it to a date later than the one fixed in the High Court.

Gehlot has challenged a sessions court's order dismissing his appeal against his summoning in the complaint filed by Shekhawat.

The sessions court had said that the summons issued by an Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate did not suffer from any factual mistake, illegality or impropriety of finding.

Additional Sessions Judge M.K. Nagpal of Rouse Avenue Court had dismissed Gehlot's appeal.

Gehlot had earlier defended his arguments saying that his statements were "truthful and cannot be categorised as defamation".

Gehlot's counsel had informed Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Harjeet Singh Jaspal of Rouse Avenue Court that Shekhawat had been served notice by the Special Operation Group (SOG) of the Rajasthan Police, which was investigating the alleged Rs 900 crore scam.

Counsel had argued that Gehlot never accused Shekhawat of being "convicted" in the case, stating that "he (Gehlot) said that the complainant (Shekhawat) is also an accused in the case" and the case did not constitute defamation and that Gehlot had made truthful statements.

On September 19, 2023, the court refused to discharge Gehlot in the criminal defamation complaint by Shekhawat, saying that his request held no merit.

Shekhawat had filed the defamation case against Gehlot in March 2023, stating that an investigation was initiated into the Sanjivani case but his name was not mentioned anywhere, and demanded the prosecution of Gehlot for criminal defamation under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

He also demanded appropriate financial compensation for the loss of his reputation.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : After a shootout, the Delhi Police's Crime Branch on Monday arrested two members of the Lawrence Bishnoi-Kapil alias Kallu-Gogi Gang, who were wanted in connection with the killing of the brother of gangster Parvesh Mann in Noida last week.

An official said that the accused were identified as Kuldeep, a resident of Bhajanpura, and Abdul Kadira, resident of Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh.

"On Monday, when a police team tried to apprehend them at Sarai Kale Khan, they opened fire upon the police party. The police team also fired in self-defence. In this ensuing encounter, both the assailants got gunshot injuries in their legs and were overpowered by the police team," said the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Amit Goel.

The injured were sent to Safdarjung Hospital for treatment.

Police said the assailants fired six rounds at the police team from their illegal weapons.

"The most important and often ignored output of arresting these sharpshooters is the weakening of the backbone of the Lawrence Bishnoi-Gogi Gang. This prevents the loss of several innocent lives during gang wars that are fought for supremacy in Delhi-NCR," said the DCP.

According to police, on January 19, Suraj Mann, a resident of Nodia was going to the gym near his residence, when three bike-borne assailants shot him. He was rushed to hospital but died during treatment.

"Mann was the brother of one Parvesh Mann, who is lodged in jail in a MCOCA case and is the key member of the Neeraj Bawania Gang. There is gang rivalry between Parvesh Mann and Kallu Kheda, who is the member of Lawrence Bishnoi-Gogi Gang," said the DCP.
Islamabad, Jan 22 : Days after Pakistan and Iran were on the verge of a major conflict, the two countries decided on Monday to restore full diplomatic relations with the return of ambassadors to their respective capitals later this week, a medis report said.

"Following the telephone conversation between the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by January 26," said a joint statement simultaneously issued by Tehran and Islamabad, Express Tribune reported.

Also importantly, at the invitation of Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Foreign Minister of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, will undertake a visit to Pakistan on January 29, the statement added, the report said.

The two countries would decide the future course of action and work on a new mechanism to prevent the recurrence of events of the last week.

Pakistan and Iran may often boast about the "friendly and brotherly" relations, but underneath does exist certain issues that cause suspicion in both the capitals.

At the heart of the problem are the concerns both sides often expressed privately about the use of each otheras soil by certain terrorist groups.

Pakistan has longstanding concerns that Baloch terrorist outfits find refuge across the border in the Sistan-Balochistan province of Iran. Tehran, on the other hand, pointed a finger at anti-Iran militant groups such as Jaish al-Adl having hideouts in Balochistan province in Pakistan.

Iran gave the same justification for carrying out cross-border missile strikes under the pretext that it was aimed at Jaish al-Adl hideouts, Express Tribune reported.

Pakistan, in retaliation, conducted strikes and pounded with bombs what it said were the sanctuaries of Baloch terrorists. Iran admitted that those killed in Pakistani strikes were not Iranians.
New Delhi, Jan 22 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's two-day visit to Iran, last week, was a crucially timed diplomatic engagement. The visit besides discussing the regional security situation was also aimed at further strengthening the political, economic and cultural aspects of the bilateral relations.

New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankaras two-day visit to Iran, last week, was a crucially timed diplomatic engagement. The visit besides discussing the regional security situation was also aimed at further strengthening the political, economic and cultural aspects of the bilateral relations.

As the crisis in the Red Sea spurred by the Israel-Hamas war escalates, India has begun a diplomatic outreach to crucial regional players to secure the country's trade and strategic interests.

The outreach treads a line of neutrality in the conflict between the Western powers and the Islamic world wherein India has not joined the US-led multinational naval coalition in the Red Sea while it remains critical of the Houthis' violence.

In this backdrop, Jaishankar's recent visit to Tehran was aimed to express India's concerns on the increasing attacks by the allegedly

Iran-backed Houthis in the Red Sea, which he shared with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.

MEA spokesperson said the issue of the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the violence and destabilisation there, were among the things that were discussed, as India is 'deeply concerned about the whole situation'.

In the last weeks, both the US and the UK have launched air strikes targeting the Houthi positions in Yemen. On its part, India has been closely monitoring the unfolding situation in the Red Sea.

The issue also figured in a phone conversation between Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on 11 January.

Countries like India are concerned that the conflict may impact most of Asian trade with Europe. This may lead to a supply chain restructuring, with neighbouring countries at higher costs.

Iran supposedly has close links with the Houthi militia in Yemen which have launched a series of attacks on shipping vessels plying the Red Sea route since mid-November.

A key motivation for Jaishankar's visit was the recent attacks on

several India-linked shipping vessels.

Terming the attacks on ships in the vicinity of India as a matter of 'grave concern' to the international community, Jaishankar said in Tehran that such threats have a direct bearing on India's energy and economic interest as he underlined that this 'fraught situation' is not to the benefit of any party.

"There has also recently been a perceptible increase in threats to the safety of maritime commercial traffic in this important part of the Indian Ocean," he said in a joint press statement after wide-ranging talks with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amirabdollahian.

He stressed that it's important that this issue be 'speedily addressed', in an apparent reference to the targeting of merchant vessels in the Red Sea - one of the busiest trade routes - by Iranian-backed Yemen's Houthi rebels amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Economic Aspects

Jaishankar also met Iran's Minister of Roads and Urban Development Mehrdad Bazrpash and held a detailed and productive discussion on establishing a long-term cooperation framework on the strategically vital Chabahar Port.

During the visit, on 15 January, India and Iran signed an agreement on the further development of the Chabahar Port.

Located in Sistan-Balochistan province on Iran's southern coast, the Chabahar Port is being developed jointly by India and Iran to boost connectivity and trade ties.

India has been pushing for the port project to boost regional trade,

especially for its connectivity to Afghanistan.

Earlier, Jaishankar had projected the Chabahar Port as a 'key regional transit hub' at a connectivity conference in Tashkent in 2021.

The port is also seen as a key hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) project.

The INSTC project is a 7,200-km-long multimode transport project for moving freight between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

Cultural Links

In a significant move to deepen cultural ties, Jaishankar announced that the government of India has decided to include Farsi (Persian) as one of the nine classical languages in India under the New Education Policy.

"The government of India has decided to include Farsi as one of the nine classical languages of India in our New Education Policy," said Jaishankar, highlighting the cultural, literary, and linguistic connections between Iran and India.

Jaishankar, made the above remarks during a joint press joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart, H Amirabdollahian on January 15.

Indian Outreach

Indian foreign minister's recent visit to Iran was part of the diplomatic efforts that have been stepped up to secure India's interests regionally.

Though, the Shiite population in India is quite small compared to the Sunni Muslims, yet the Indian government has always been able to build and balance its relationship with Iran and Saudi Arabia, both seen as the leaders of the Shia and Sunni communities globally.

This diplomatic balancing has always worked to India's advantage, besides giving it a regional clout.

At a regional level India has always accorded a significant priority to its ties with Iran.

As the country apart from offering it a gateway to the central Asian

republics and also Afghanistan, has also been a reliable oil supplier to India, and that too on a favourable rupee payment basis.

Therefore, the issues discussed during the foreign minister's visit also encompassed all aspects of the sustained relationship between India and Iran, as they covered regional security, trade and development and cultural ties.

The announcement related to Farsi, was also timed right and was aimed at targeting the Muslim minority in the country.

Over the years, Indo-Iran ties have moved ahead, in spite of meddling by other countries and the current diplomatic policy led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, in this regard has not only carried on the old relationship, but the manner in which trade, economic and cultural tries between the two countries have progressed, shows their commitment to build a long-lasting relationship.

(Asad Mirza is a Delhi-based senior political and international affairs commentator)
Gandhinagar, Jan 22 : The Gujarat High Court on Monday ordered an inquiry into the January 18 boat capsize incident at Harni Lake in Vadodara which claimed the lives of 14 students and two teachers.

The court has demanded a detailed report from the state government on enforcing safety regulations and the accountability of those responsible for the tragedy.

A bench led by Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Aniruddha P Mayee, expressed grave concerns about the blatant violation of safety norms, noting the overloading on boat, and the absence of life jackets for passengers.

The inquiry was ordered following reports that the boat, designed for 16, tragically capsized under the weight of 27 occupants.

The court has directed the Secretary of the Gujarat Home Department to furnish a detailed action-taken report.

This report, to be affirmed by a Gazetted Officer of the Home Department, is expected to clarify the measures implemented post-incident.

This incident has thrown focus on the safety practices at popular recreational sites like Harni Lake, prompting a re-evaluation of protocols to prevent similar occurrences.

The court has set a deadline for the submission of the action-taken report, emphasising the urgency of rectifying the failures that led to the accident.
Imphal, Jan 22 : In a significant development in Manipur, 34 MLAs, mostly of the ruling BJP, have urged the Central government to abrogate the Suspension of Operation (SoO) with the armed militant outfits, otherwise the legislators would take "appropriate action" in consultation with the people.

The 34 MLAs, in a meeting on Sunday, took a unanimous resolution requesting the Central government to abrogate the SoO, signed between the Central and state governments and 23 Kuki militant outfits in 2008 and 2,266 Kuki cadres have been staying in different designated camps in Manipur.

"If Government of India is unable to take any positive action as per the resolution, we the legislators will take appropriate action in consultation with the public," said the resolution, accessed by IANS.

The resolution said that the armed attacks (using sophisticated weaponry such as rocket-propelled grenade launchers) on Indian soil, Indian citizens, and security forces by Myanmar-based armed militants must be stopped at all costs.

It said that in many of the sensitive areas, a section of the Central forces are not responsive and remain mute spectators when unarmed civilians (particularly farmers) are being indiscriminately fired upon frequently.

The resolution said that a section of central forces and their leadership need to give strict instructions and be held accountable and replaced with forces that have the ability to act by returning suppressive fire when they observe that unarmed civilians are being fired upon, to enable civilians to get to cover and safety.

According to the officials, the 34 signatories include ministers.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, however, did not sign the resolution. Singh, who also holds the home portfolio, has, on a number of occasions, claimed that Myanmar-based militants and illegal immigrants from across the border are creating ethnic trouble in Manipur, involved in drugs smuggling and illicit poppy cultivation by encroaching the government forest lands.

Criticising the role of a section of the central forces, he said: "You (central forces) were not invited to observe what is going on. You were deployed to protect the integrity of the state... the life and properties of the innocent people."
New Delhi, Jan 22 : The Delhi High Court on Monday sought the response of the city government on the recommendations by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in its 2020 report concerning the violence, linked to protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), at Jamia Millia Islamia in December 2019.

A division bench of Justice Suresh Kumar Kait and Justice Manoj Jain directed the Delhi government to submit its response within two weeks.

The court is addressing a petition filed by various Jamia Millia Islamia students who claim to have been attacked by the Delhi Police during the violence.

One of the petitioners, Nabila Hasan, a law student at the time, filed a complaint before the NHRC. The NHRC report characterised the protest as an "unlawful assembly" and suggested police action against it.

Its recommendations included compensation for injured students and appropriate action against police officers found at fault.

The Delhi Police informed the court that none of the victims is presently traceable and asserted that commensurate force was used when students engaged in violence.

The court has listed the matter, along with related petitions concerning the violence, for hearing on March 14.

Last year, the Delhi Police had informed the High Court that footage from CCTV cameras available in areas near New Friends Colony and Jamia Nagar had been "duly preserved" and collected well in time. It made the claim in an affidavit in response to a plea submitted by Hasan, one of the petitioners, in the batch matter, asking for the retention of CCTV footage from all cameras inside Jamia Millia Islamia exclusively.

The petitioner had also sought that all persons who have been harmed or arrested by police or paramilitary forces receive proper financial compensation.

In its affidavit, the Delhi Police stated that CCTV footage from 13 locations in the New Friends Colony area was collected and sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Rohini for authentication. "After examination, the seized pen drives, DVRs were received back and a copy of the footage was supplied to the accused persons in FIR No. 242/19 PS New Friends Colony, New Delhi," the affidavit stated.

Regarding the demand for fair compensation, the police stated that Hasan's complaint had been included in an investigation by the NHRC into accusations of alleged atrocities committed by the police and paramilitary forces inside the Jamia campus.

The apex rights panel accepted the recommendations made by the NHRC investigation team after conducting a thorough and in-depth investigation. The recommendations stated that the Chief Secretary should give "suitable compensation to the injured students who received grievous injuries, commensurate with their injuries, on humanitarian grounds".

"It is submitted that as evident from the aforesaid direction passed by NHRC, the Chief Secretary, GNCT Delhi, was directed to provide suitable compensation to persons who have received grievous injuries. It is submitted that the details of the compensation supplied by GNCTD are presently not available with the respondent Delhi Police and efforts to get the same from GNCTD are being made," the affidavit added.

According to the police's affidavit, the Commission report itself states that Hasan "actively participated" in the proceedings before the NHRC and provided all of the information she had access to.

According to the affidavit, Hasan cannot request the same remedy before the HC while concealing the fact that she successfully obtainined it before the NHRC.

Calling it an attempt to "abuse the process of law" and "equity jurisdiction" of the HC, the Delhi Police said that Hasan's plea should be rejected with exemplary cost.
Mumbai, Jan 22 : A Special PMLA Court in Mumbai on Monday extended the custody of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Suraj Chavan, arrested in connection with the alleged 'Khichdi scam', till January 25.

Chavan, a close aide of Yuva Sena President and MLA Aditya Thackeray, was arrested on January 17 for a money-laundering case linked to the 'Khichdi scam' matter probed by the Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing.

He was granted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody till January 22 and produced before the Special PMLA Court to extend his remand by a week.

Seeking extended custody, the ED argued that Chavan had utilised the proceeds of the alleged money-laundering crime to invest in realty and a dairy business, and had played a "very critical role in the entire offence".

The alleged irregularities occurred when the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) awarded huge contracts to private caterers including Force One Multi-Services, for providing 'Khichdi' to migrants stranded here during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown.

The ED contended that the BMC had transferred an amount of Rs 8.64 crore to the company's bank accounts, from which there was a misappropriation of around Rs 3.64 crore.

Of this amount, Rs 1.25 crore was allegedly diverted to the bank account of Chavan and Rs 10 lakh to the bank account of his partnership firm, Firefighters Enterprises, thus illegally cornering around Rs 1.35 crore as the 'proceeds of the crime'.

Chavan has reportedly invested this amount for clearing off personal taxes and liabilities, buying a flat and agricultural land and starting a dairy business, the ED contended.

The ED sought an extension of custody to confront him with documents and his associates in the companies to unravel more details of the scam and unearth the money trail and the possible involvement of other players.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders, including Aditya Thackeray, Sanjay Raut and Sushma Andhare, had slammed the ED action of "selectively targeting its leaders" in different alleged scandals.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov met with Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexei Overchuk on January 22. Trend reports.

The meeting discussed topical issues of Azerbaijani-Russian trade, economic cooperation, and the implementation of joint projects.

The sides underlined the importance of signing a roadmap for the development of key areas of Azerbaijani-Russian cooperation for 20242026.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
New Delhi, Jan 22 : A Delhi court has extended, till February 22, the interim bail of liquor businessman Sameer Mahendru in the excise policy case.

Special Judge M.K. Nagpal of Rouse Avenue Court, who initially granted interim bail to Mahendru due to his wife's surgery, extended the relief after considering the ongoing post-operative care required for his wife.

Noting that Mahendru's wife would continue to be hospitalised for a few more days, the judge directed him to surrender before the jail superintendent concerned by 5 p.m. on February 9.

"The interim bail of the accused is being extended further till February 9," the judge stated, considering the totality of facts and circumstances.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had earlier opposed the extension, contending it violated the court's earlier condition that Mahendru wouldn't seek further relief. The judge had, however, found no evidence that the surgery delay was intentional or caused by any fault of the accused or his wife.

While granting interim bail, the judge observed that during Mahendru's previous interim bail, there was no attempt to influence witnesses or tamper with evidence and Mahendru does not pose a flight risk.

According to the prosecution, Mahendru was a significant beneficiary of excise policy violations, operating an alcoholic beverage manufacturing unit and holding wholesale and retail licences in his and his familyas names.

Earlier, the Delhi High Court had denied regular bail to Mahendru.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma had observed that Mahendru's medical condition does not pose a life-threatening risk or involve an infirmity that cannot be treated within the confines of a jail.

The court had noted that Mahendru is already receiving adequate medical attention, and prison authorities have permitted him to seek treatment from his doctor on an out-patient-basis, as needed. It had ruled that there were no compelling grounds to grant regular bail to Mahendru in the current case. However, it clarified that the prison authorities must ensure that Mahendru is taken for follow-up medical and physiotherapy sessions at VNA Hospital and that he is not left unattended in the jail cell or dispensary.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Jan 22 : Actress Alia Bhatt, who attended the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram temple on Monday, wore a saree which featured captivating Ramayana-themed border, adorned with intricate embroidery depicting pictures of Lord Ram, sacred Ram Setu, adding a touch of cultural richness to the occasion.

Alia was accompanied by her husband and actor Ranbir Kapoor, who sported a white dhoti and kurta paired with a matching shawl.

The 'Gully Boy' fame actress looked beautiful in a sea-green coloured saree, and carried a matching shawl.

Alia's saree had a border which depicted the entire Ramayana through motifs. It had glimpses of Lord Ram, Sita, Hanuman, and Ram Setu.

She had tied up her hair in a clean bun and accessorised the look with earrings. The outfit was completed with a matching purse.

The photo of Alia's saree went viral on the internet in no time, and the actress received love and appreciation for the same.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Alia was last seen in the American spy action thriller 'Heart of Stone'. The film stars Gal Gadot and Jamie Dornan.

She next has 'Jigra' in her kitty. Alia is also the producer of the movie.
Vadodara, Jan 22 : A religious procession at a village in Gujarat's Vadodara district was marred by violence on Monday. However, the situation is now "under control", officials said.

The incident took place at Bhoj village under Padra taluka of the district during a Shobha Yatra, which was being taken out to celebrate the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram's idol in Ayodhya's Ram temple. Tensions escalated when a group allegedly hurled stones at the participants, resulting in one injury.

In anticipation of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, local police had increased their presence in the village. Officers, including the police inspector, had also engaged with community leaders to maintain peace during the ceremony.

The clash broke while the procession was passing through a sensitive area.

Officials reported that eyewitness accounts suggest three to four individuals initiated the attack from narrow lanes bordering the procession's path.

Investigations are underway to confirm reports of weapons among the assailants, though no evidence has yet surfaced.

Law enforcement officers have initiated combing operations to apprehend suspects involved in the disturbance.

Officials said that the procession continued as planned under heavy police guard, with no further incidents reported.

Efforts are ongoing to facilitate dialogue between the communities to foster peace and prevent further escalations of violence. The situation remained tense but is under control, they added

--IANS

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Imphal, Jan 22 : A three-member Central team led by Ministry of Home Affairs Advisor, A.K. Mishra arrived in Manipur on Monday and held meetings with the government officials and leaders of various organisations.

Officials said that Mishra, accompanied by two Joint Directors, Intelligence Bureau, Mandeep Singh Tuli and Rajesh Kumble, arrived on Monday evening.

Soon after their arrival, they held a series of meetings with the government officials and leaders of various organisations and elected leaders.

"The MHA team held meetings with a few Meitei organisations including women bodies and some elected leaders and discussed the prevailing situation in Manipur," an official told IANS, refusing to disclose the further details of these meetings.

The visit of the MHA team in violence-hit Manipur assumes significance as some organisations have threatened to launch massive agitation if the government does not take action against the militants and the immigrants from Myanmar.

The militants, in their stepped up attacks in the last few days, killed at least seven persons, including two Manipur police commandos, four villagers and a village defence volunteer.

Meanwhile, in a significant development in Manipur, 34 MLAs, mostly of the ruling BJP, have urged the Central government to abrogate the Suspension of Operation (SoO) with the armed militant outfits, otherwise the legislators would take "appropriate action" in consultation with the people.

The 34 MLAs, in a meeting on Sunday, took a unanimous resolution requesting the Central government to abrogate the SoO, signed between the Central and state governments and 23 Kuki militant outfits in 2008 and 2,266 Kuki cadres have been staying in different designated camps in Manipur.

"If Government of India is unable to take any positive action as per the resolution, we the legislators will take appropriate action in consultation with the public," said the resolution, accessed by IANS.

Manipur has witnessed unprecedented violent clashes, attacks, counter-attacks, and burning of vehicles and government and private properties in 10 of the 16 districts during and after May 3 'Tribal Solidarity March' called by the All-Tribal Students' Union of Manipur to oppose the demand for inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category.

In the ethnic violence between the non-tribal Meitei and tribal Kuki-Zo communities, over 190 people have been killed and over 1,500 people injured while over 70,000 people of both communities displaced.
Hyderabad Metro's second phase to have four new corridors. Image Source: IANS News

Hyderabad, Jan 22 : Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd (HMRL) has prepared a new route map for the second phase of Hyderabad Metro, dropping the routes proposed by the previous government.

HMRL Managing Director N.V.S. Reddy announced on Monday that proposals have been finalised to construct new Metro rail lines on a total stretch of 70 km under the second phase.

The preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the new metro corridors is in full swing and they will be ready in about three months.

The new route map was finalised after Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy ordered that the routes proposed by the previous government be dropped as they are not useful for majority of sections.

The dropped routes include the Raidurg to Shamshabad Airport. The foundation stone for the 31-km-long line was laid last year and it was estimated to cost Rs 6,250 crore.

The alternate routes have been prepared to ensure airport connectivity in view of the increased traffic congestion and to meet the demand for public transportation in the future.

The new proposed routes will connect the airport from the four corners of the city to ensure the metro rail services are available to the majority of the commuters in Hyderabad city, the HMRL said.

The main objective of the newly-designed metro rail connectivity is to provide public transportation to a greater number of people at a lower cost.

The earlier metro rail network proposed by the previous government will incur huge expenditure but provide the facility to fewer numbers of people.

Currently, the Hyderabad Metro Rail is providing services on a stretch of 69 km in three corridors between Miyapur and LB Nagar, JBS station to MGBS, and Nagole to Rayadurg.

In the second phase, the metro rail network between Secunderabad JBS to MGBS will be extended up to Chandrayangutta Cross Road.

In addition to this, the metro rail network will be constructed in four new corridors.

Under Corridor 2, the Metro will be extended from MGBS Metro Station to Falaknuma (5.5 km) and from Falaknuma to Chandrayangutta Cross Road (1.5 km).

Under Corridor 4, the Metro line will be extended from Nagole Metro Station to LB Nagar Metro Station and connect Chandrayangutta Cross Road, Mailardevpally , P7 Road to Shamshabad Airport (29 km).

Under the same corridor, Metro connectivity will be provided from Mylardevpally to the proposed High Court at Rajendra Nagar via Aramghar (4 km).

Corridor 5 will from Rayadurg Metro Station to Biodiversity Junction, Nanakramguda Junction, Wipro Junction and American Consulate (Financial District) (8 km), while Corridor 6 will be 14-km-long from Miyapur Metro Station to Patancheru via BHEL while Corridor 7 will be from LB Nagar Metro Station to Vanasthalipuram and Hayat Nagar (8 km).

--IANS

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Doha, Jan 22 : Debutants Tajikistan produced a stirring comeback to prolong their journey at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, defeating Lebanon 2-1 to finish second in Group A here on Monday.

Meanwhile, Hassan Al Haydosa goal-of-the-tournament contender earned Qatar a 1-0 win over China PR in their final Group A clash at Khalifa International Stadium as the hosts all-but eliminated Aleksandar Jankovicas side from the competition.

Tajikistan, the Central Asian side, showed great fight and spirit as Nuriddin Khamrokulovas goal in the second minute of stoppage time saw them finish on four points, two better than China PR with Lebanon on one point.

Tajikistan responded with their first attempt on target in the 24th minute when Zoir Dzhuraboev climbed high at the back post to get his head onto Akhtam Nazarovas cross, however, it was a tame effort which Mostafa Matar easily dealt with.

Backed by a sizable Lebanon-supporting crowd in the stands, Miodrag Radulovicas side had two openings early on but attempts by Hussein Zein and Hassan Maatouk were well covered by Tajikistan custodian Rustam Yatimov.

The Central Asian side nearly broke the deadlock seven minutes later, with Matar out of position after having made a clearance, a quick Tajikistan throw-in saw Manuchehr Safarov unleash a shot which bounced off the crossbar.

Hassan Al Haydos, the Qatari captain, came off the bench to smash a spectacular volley from 20 yards past the helpless Yan Junling in the 66th minute and maintain the much-changed defending championsa perfect start to the campaign and stretch their winning run to 10 matches.

Jankovicas side needed a win to be certain of advancing to the last 16 but, after failing to find the back of the net in their opening games against Tajikistan and Lebanon, the Chinese once again misfired in attack with their fate now out of their hands.

Qatar started with the tournamentas joint-leading scorer Akram Afif on the bench alongside the 2019 AFC Asian Cup Golden Boot winner Almoez Ali and Al Haydos as Marquez Lopez made 10 changes to the team that started the 1-0 win over Tajikistan.

The Chinese, meanwhile, left Wu Lei on the sidelines with Wei Shihao making his first start alongside captain Wu Xi and Lin Liangming as Dai Wai-tsun and Xu Xin were also dropped to the bench.
Bengaluru, Jan 22 : Some miscreants on Monday night tore a poster of Lord Ram put up in Karnataka's Bengaluru Rural district to celebrate the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram temple.

The incident was reported from Giddappanahalli village of Hosakote taluka of the district.

The villagers condemned the incident and sat on a protest demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits. Following which, police rushed to the spot, pacified the agitators and assured them of nabbing the miscreants.

In another incident, police detained a woman in Shivamogga for raising the 'Allahu Akbar' slogan and making remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi when Hindu activists were distributing sweets to mark the celebration of the Pran Prathista ceremony.

The family of the woman later claimed that she is suffering from some mental illness and got her released.

Reacting to the development, former Minister K.S. Eshwarappa said: "This was a conspiracy. The woman had insulted PM Modi by raising slogans. I have told the police not to decide on her mental status by themselves and to file an FIR against her. I have also asked the police to arrest her."
Patna, Jan 22 : Two sisters in a village on the outskirts of Patna were beaten and badly injured by a pair of brothers who entered their house and tried to rape them but had to flee after the victims raised an alarm, police said on Monday.

The incident occurred in a village under Dhanarua police station on Saturday night when the family members were out of the house for some work.

Accused Rahul Kumar alias Loha Singh and Rohit Kumar alias Champak alias Pandit entered the house of victims and tried to sexually assault them.

As the victims raised an alarm, the accused, who had a pistol and iron rod, though they may be caught by the local residents and attacked them with the butt of the pistol and the rod, breaking their hands and legs.

The accused managed to flee from the spot before the local villagers assembled. The victims were admitted them to a private hospital where doctors have referred them to PMCH, Patna.

"We have registered an FIR against Rahul and Rohit. They have criminal backgrounds. Rahul also served a jail term and he is a notorious criminal. We are making efforts to nab them," Dhanarua police station SHO Rajesh Kumar said.
Chennai, Jan 22 : The Tamil Nadu government has revoked the suspension of former Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) of Ambasamudram town who was charged in four cases of custodial torture.

The police officer, Balveer Singh, was charged of plucking the teeth of accused men taken into custody for petty crimes.

The Crime Branch-CID of Tamil Nadu Police had charge-sheeted the former ASP in four cases of custodial torture.

Singh, a 2020-batch IPS officer of Tamil Nadu cadre, was booked for allegedly plucking the teeth of 15 suspects involved in petty crimes in Vikramasingapuram, Ambasamudram and Kallidaikurichi police stations.

The CB-CID of Tamil Nadu police completed their investigation in all four cases and sent separate requests to the state government to give sanction to prosecute the IPS officer.

Those who allegedly underwent torture had claimed that the IPS officer took each of them into a room and plucked their teeth out with cutting pliers, with other policemen holding their legs and arms.

He was also accused of filling their mouths with sand and gravel.

It was also claimed that he had crushed the testicles of two people who were taken into custody.

The IPS officer was granted bail by a court in Tirunelveli on December 15.

Fourteen other police personnel booked in the four cases were also released on bail.

The court had accepted an undertaking from the policemen and released them on bail.

--IANS

aal/pgh
Bhubaneswar, Jan 22 : The Odisha Cabinet presided over by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, on Monday, approved several key proposals including approval of a special incentive package for Electric Vehicle and component manufacturing projects by JSW Group, one of India's largest conglomerates.

As many as 14 proposals related to 12 departments have been approved by the Cabinet during its meeting on Monday.

The state cabinet approved a special incentive package for the Sajjan Jindal-led conglomerate JSW Group's ambitious Electric Vehicle and component manufacturing projects in Naraj, Cuttack, and Paradip.

The company has proposed to invest over Rs 40,000 crores in the said projects which will create more than 11,000 jobs.

"The JSW Group has proposed to set-up an EV & EV Battery Manufacturing Project at Naraj, Cuttack. The one-of-a-kind advanced technology-based Battery Manufacturing project with capacity of 50 Gigawatt-Hour (GWh) will be the world's largest single location project in the sector.

"The company is also planning to set-up an Original equipment manufacturer(OEM) Plant for Electric Vehicles and Components in the same facility in two phases," an official said on Monday.

The company is also planning to set up an EV Components Manufacturing Complex consisting of Copper Smelter along with Lithium Smelter at Paradip in the third phase.

The company proposed to invest Rs 15,000 crore generating employment for more than 7,000 people.

The state cabinet also decided to expand the existing plantation area of coffee 10,000 acres by 10 times during the next 10 years. The government will implement the "Coffee Plantation for Sustainable Livelihoods (CPSL)" scheme in six districts of the state namely Koraput, Rayagada, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Keonjhar and Gajapati.

The government will encourage Women SHGs for raising coffee nurseries aiming to benefit more than 50,000 farm families.

The scheme will be implemented by the Directorate of Soil Conservation and Watershed Development under the Agriculture and Farmers' Empowerment Department.

"It envisages an expenditure of Rs 1,144 crore from 2022-23 to 2026-27, out of which Rs 567 crore will be met through State Plan and Rs 577 crore will be met through convergence with other Schemes. Beyond the initial period of five years, value addition and marketing aspects will also be included in the scheme," the official added.

The state cabinet in its meeting also approved the turnkey tender of the project construction of 6,952-bedded working women's hostel at seafood park Deras, Khordha with a cost of Rs 329 crore.

Several other key decisions were also taken during the meeting of the state cabinet.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. On January 22, another group of former internally displaced persons, consisting of families temporarily settled in dormitories, sanatoriums, pioneer camps, unfinished buildings and administrative buildings in various territories of Azerbaijan, was sent to the city of Fuzuli from the Garadagh district of Baku, Trend reports.

At this stage, another 30 families (106 people) moved to the city of Fuzuli.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Fuzuli, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Fuzuli residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care, expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Until today, a permanent settlement in the city of Fuzuli has been provided for 440 families - 1,625 people.
Hubballi : , Jan 22 (IANS) Muslims in several villages of the north Karnataka region offered prayers to Lord Ram on the premises of mosques marking the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram temple on Monday.

At Halyala village in Hubballi taluk, members of the Muslim community offered prayers by putting photos of Lord Ram on the premises of two mosques and Sayyad Ali Dargah. They offered meals to the villagers on the occasion and also wore saffron clothes.

At Hunasikatti village of Gadag district's Naragund taluk, Muslims performed the 'homa' ritual. The ritual was performed on the premises of the village mosque and the programme was attended by Hindus as well. Floral tributes were also paid to a portrait of 'Bharat Mata'.

North Karnataka is known for religious harmony and brotherhood. Unlike other places, Muslims and Hindus live in neighbourhoods in villages of north Karnataka and share a similar culture.
QUETTA, Aug. 6, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Security officers cordon off the blast site in Quetta city of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Aug. 6, 2019. A blast hit Quetta city of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Tuesday, leaving two per. Image Source: IANS News

Islamabad, Jan 23 : Seven terrorists were killed during a clash between security forces and terrorists in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province, the military said.

The security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob district of the province, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said on Monday in a statement.

During the conduct of the operation, an intense fire exchange took place between security forces and terrorists, as a result of which seven terrorists were killed, the ISPR said, adding that arms, ammunition and explosives were also recovered during the operation, Xinhua news agency reported.

The killed terrorists were actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces as well as innocent civilians, said the statement.

A clearance operation is being carried out to eliminate the presence of terrorists from the area, it added.

The military said that the security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country.
Baghdad, Jan 23 : Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani has said that any attack on Iraqi soil violates its sovereignty, stressing the country's determination to end the presence of the US-led coalition.

Al-Sudani made the remarks during his meeting with the Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren, whose country is scheduled to assume the presidency of the NATO mission in Iraq in mid-May, according to a statement issued by al-Sudani's media office on Monday.

The Prime Minister stressed his rejection of any attack on Iraqi territory or any violation of its sovereignty, reiterating "the government's commitment to protecting diplomatic missions and advisors working in Iraq, as well as assisting the NATO mission in carrying out its tasks agreed upon with the Iraqi government," the statement said as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

Meanwhile, al-Sudani affirmed "the Iraqi government's decision to rearrange the relationship with the international coalition" and move from the presence of foreign forces in Iraq to bilateral relations and cooperation with the coalition countries, according to the statement.

For her part, Ollongren confirmed that the Dutch government agrees with al-Sudani's vision that victory over the terrorist group Islamic State (IS) requires changing the mission of the international coalition and moving it to equal bilateral relations after the development of the Iraqi security forces' capabilities, according to the statement.

She also confirmed that the Netherlands will assume the leadership of the NATO mission in Iraq in the middle of this year and "will work with the Iraqi government to achieve its new vision".

The Netherlands is part of the US-led international coalition tasked with training and advising the Iraqi security forces in their fight against the IS.
Russian troops compared to ISIS for demanding ransom from mother of captured Ukrainian soldier. Image Source: IANS News

Kiev, Jan 23 : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that he is submitting to Parliament a draft law that would allow multiple citizenship in Ukraine, the Presidential press service reported.

The law will allow all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to have Ukrainian citizenship, except for citizens of Russia, Zelensky said on Monday in an address to the nation marking the 'Day of Unity'.

If adopted, the new legislation would enable those who left Ukraine to emigrate to restore their Ukrainian citizenship, Xinhua news agency reported.

It would also pave the way for foreign volunteers, who are fighting on the Ukrainian side, during the war with Russia to obtain Ukrainian citizenship.

At present, the Ukrainian Constitution allows only single citizenship.
Municipal Airport, Belize City, Belize [ TZA / ]

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Belize City Airport Info:

Belize City Airport IATA Code: TZA Belize City Airport ICAO Code: Latitude : 17.5163 Longitude : -88.1947 City : Belize City Country : Belize World Area Code : 106 Airport Type : Medium Belize City Airport Address / Contact Details :

Belize City Municipal Airport (TZA), St Mathew Street, Belize City, Belize Airport Type : Public Timezone : America/Belize Municipal Airport Timezone : GMT -06:00 hours Current time and date at Municipal Airport is 10:43:27 AM (CST) on Monday, Mar 18, 2024

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Municipal Airport Map - Location of Municipal Airport Load Map Belize - General Information Country Code BZ Capital Belmopan Currency Dollar (BZD)

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TZA - Municipal Airport IATA Code
Psychological Science in the Public Interest (Volume 24, Issue 3)

Read the Full Text (PDF, HTML)

Youth who are caught stealing, using illegal drugs, or committing other moderate crimes are far less likely to reoffend when they receive therapy, life-skills training, and other rehabilitative help rather than legal punishment, a growing body of research shows.

These findings underscore efforts in many states to implement programs that protect young people who engage in crime from reoffending and spiraling into a life of hardship, according to a new report published in Psychological Science in the Public Interest. Increasingly, policymakers are recognizing that processing youth through the courts may cause long-lasting psychological harm at a critical time in their development.

If policymakers could take away one finding from the research summarized in this article, it would be that formal sanctioning, (e.g., court appearance) was never related to better life outcomes  for youths charged with moderately serious offenses, the report states.

A PSPI Live webinar recording associated with this article is available to APS members and registered attendees: Developmental Science Research Informs Juvenile Justice Reform

The authors of the report include APS Fellow Elizabeth Cauffman, developmental psychologist Jordan Beardslee, and clinical psychologist Marie Gillespie, all of University of California, Irvine; Frank Davis of the Alternative Public Defenders Office in Orange County, California; Judge Maria Hernandez of the Superior Court of Orange County; and Tamika Williams, Orange County deputy district attorney.

The report outlines 20 years worth of developmental science, including two large, long-term studies, both co-led by Cauffman, involving adolescent boys and men in early adulthood who become entangled in the justice system.

Criminal behavior tends to peak in late adolescence and decline in early adulthood. And most youth, even those charged with serious felonies, become law-abiding adults, Cauffman and her co-authors emphasize. But several factors heighten individuals risk for ongoing offending, including:

antisocial traits,

substance use,

poor impulse control,

low expectations for the future,

perceptions of the justice system as unfair,

parental neglect,

school suspension or expulsion, and

community poverty and violence.

The authors also point to racial inequities in judicial sanctions on youth. Research shows that adolescents of color are arrested, referred to juvenile court, subject to harsher sentences, and tried as adults more than White youths. One study indicated that Black boys and young men were rearrested more often than their White peers despite equal or even lower rates of offending.

The authors suggest that juvenile justice policymakers not only minimize formal processing and detention for youths who commit lower-level offenses but expand diversion programs and other alternatives to jail time.

Adolescents are continuing to change and the response to their behavior should be developmentally appropriate, Cauffman said. How we respond to young people in the justice system matters. And if we want to improve community safety, we should use the science to guide both policy and practice.

These reforms should apply not only to adolescents but to individuals transitioning into adulthood, as research has shown that the human brain continues maturing into a persons mid and late 20s. A promising concept is the young adult court (YAC), a specialized program for individuals ages 18-25, the authors noted. They are conducting a randomized control trial in Orange County to examine differences between young adults who are processed through a YAC versus traditional means. Young men in the YAC are supervised for at least 18 months by the court and specially trained probation officers. The youth receive help with life skills, employment, health, housing, and education. A judge can dismiss or reduce charges against those who complete the program.

Related content: The Psychological Science Behind Childhood and Adolescent Mental Health

We hope to understand the extent to which involvement with the YAC is related to short- and long-term positive outcomes in behavior, mental and physical health, school and work, and other domains, the authors wrote.

In a commentary accompanying the report, Felice Upton, Assistant Secretary of Juvenile Rehabilitation for Washington State, argued that strengthening educational and vocational training programs with juvenile detention facilities also stands to help lift young offenders life trajectory. She also emphasized the importance of addressing detained youths psychological problems, noting that a high number of individuals entering the juvenile justice system in her state meet a diagnosis for complex post-traumatic stress disorder. Prior research has linked mental health disorders with delinquency.

Bringing systems and science together to find solutions is essential to help young people desist from criminal justice system involvement, Upton wrote.

About the Authors (PDF, HTML)

Feedback on this article? Email apsobserver@psychologicalscience.org or login to comment.
James Patterson's latest nonfiction title, The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians (Little, Brown, Apr.), takes us inside the lives, and livelihoods, of the everyday heroes surrounding us in the literary trenches: booksellers and librarians. In a collection of profiles that includes professionals of all types, from school librarians to independent booksellers to big box chain employees, Patterson and his co-author, Matt Eversmann, delve into how these reading gurus inspire young and old every day. PW talked to Patterson about what why booksellers and librarians are essential pillars of our communities, how we can better support them, and the meaning of "book joy."

In the popular imagination, librarians and booksellers are commonly seen as being mild-mannered introverts who lead quiet lives. What made you decide to take on this stereotype?

Reading may be a solitary act, but engaging with books and with readers is social. It takes confidence to select the books people will want to read. And it takes conviction to promote themtalking them up to store customers or library patrons or online and saying, This is what youre looking for. Trust me. I think youre going to love this.

Then readers come back and say, Okay, what else you got?

Whats the most prevalent misunderstanding about booksellers and librarians?

Oh, youre a librarian. Oh, youre a bookseller. You guys must just sit around reading, drinking tea, and talking about Dickens all day. None of the above! Nobody cares more about books than booksellers and librarians. The knowledge these folks have is amazing. And sure, they got into the profession because they love books. But these talented people arent just sitting around reading during work hours. Theyre doing so much more buying, receiving, shelving, cleaning, story time, social media. Libraries and bookstores are major parts of their neighborhoods, running all kinds of community programs and gatherings.

As you researched this book, what surprised you the most? Were any of your own ideas about the work of booksellers and librarians challenged or upended?

Ive been to hundreds and hundreds of libraries and bookstores, and I can tell you this: keeping these places going takes an unbelievable amount of effort. The general public does not appreciate how hard librarians and booksellers work.

Whats also amazing is how they specialize. There are libraries that lend books by subscription, to students of the Holocaust, to prison populations. Many have unique approaches that arent widely known. Each library, each bookstore, is its own ecosystem fed by the stories they contain.

What are the key qualities that make a person decide to devote their lives to finding great books and telling others about them?

Curiosity. Enthusiasm. Commitment. Vision. These are professionals on a mission to get people of all ages excited about books and reading. Theyre doing work they could continue for the rest of their lives. Work that is crucial to everyday life. We all want to feel proud of our profession. Booksellers and librarians should feel very proud.

Books are magical, but they are also a business. How does the business aspect of this industry influence the way these professionals do their jobs? Does it show up differently for booksellers versus librarians?

The founder and owner of the Astoria Bookshop credits a Twitter post 'Why are all these bookstores opening in Brooklyn? Why doesnt anybody open one in Queens? We read here too' with her inspiration to start a business. The work is part market research, part networking, part business plan, with the goal of bringing people together to communicate and socialize over the common element of books. Its no different for libraries, where programming attracts readers to a place that has all the books they want for free!

Was your life ever changed by a book that a librarian or bookseller handed to you?

At 18, I made the rounds of secondhand bookstores two or three times a week. I especially loved tattered, dog-eared books. Books that had been well loved and showed it. The used books cost me a quarter, occasionally a buck, even for thick novels like The Sot-Weed Factor, The Golden Notebook, The Tin Drum. As I read novel after novel, my view of what was possible in life began to change.

How do they continue to help you in your work?

Library events are always book tour highlights. I recently visited New Jerseys Spring Lake Library and Marylands Carroll County Public Library and had lively interactions with readers. New bookstores like Ohios Banned Book Nook, (my hometown) Newburgh, New Yorks Golden Hour Books, and The Ripped Bodice in Brooklyn continue to open around the country. They are an inspiration.

You say in the book that booksellers and librarians save lives. Whats your favorite example of this?

People often turn to books when they are facing a crossroads. A North Carolina bookseller tells of a widow who said: This book club saved my life. Then theres the elementary-school-age reader who inhaled the pages of a book, asking, Doesnt it smell great? A Utah bookseller answered yes, all the while thinking, Youve got such a great life ahead of you. A life that is filled with books.

How can we as individuals, and as a society, best support booksellers and librarians so that they can continue this vital work?

A Florida librarian tells the story of returning to her library after the devastation of Hurricane Ian to find the lobby gutted, the doors blown off, and three feet of water inside. The librarians get to work, deciding, Were going to figure this out and serve people the best that we can. Thats the level of dedication librarians bring to delivering to readers the information they need, no matter whats going on in the world.

What is book joy and how can we get more of it in our lives?

Book Joy is an expression coined by a librarian in northern Texas to describe that great feeling of matching readers with the books that will bring them the most happiness. Its the feeling that was shared by so many booksellers and librarians, who told us that their favorite part of their jobs was putting the right book into the right hands at the right timemaking the kind of match that inspired readers to come back again and again and again. To get more book joy, keep turning those pages.
2024 gives readers a warm welcome with notable new titles for young readers out this month, including a picture book celebrating a New York neighborhood, an illustrated middle grade novel featuring a secret crime-fighting organization, a YA graphic novel about an all-or-nothing bargain on love, and more.

Picture Books

Angelas Glacier

Jordan Scott, illus. by Diana Sudyka. Holiday House/Porter, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-8234-5082-4. Ages 48. Scott writes of a relationship that grows between a child and a wonder of the natural world: an Icelandic glacier called Snfellsjokull. The book received a starred review from PW.

Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem: The Vision of Photographer Roy DeCarava

Gary Golio, illus. by E.B. Lewis. Calkins Creek, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-66268-055-7. Ages 710. Readers navigate the New York City neighborhood of Harlem through the lens of photographer Roy DeCarava (19192009). The book received a starred review from PW.

Fighting with Love: The Legacy of John Lewis

Lesa Cline-Ransome, illus. by James E. Ransome. S&S/Wiseman, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-5344-9662-0. Ages 48. Married collaborators Cline-Ransome and Ransome chart the life of civil rights activist and politician John Lewis from his Alabama childhood to his adulthood advocating for the rights of African Americans. See our In Conversation with the duo. The book received a starred review from PW.

Go Forth and Tell: The Life of Augusta Baker, Librarian and Master Storyteller

Breanna J. McDaniel, illus. by April Harrison. Dial, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-593-32420-2. Ages 58. The creators chronicle the life of influential librarian Augusta Baker, starting with her Baltimore childhood through her career as a librarian. The book received a starred review from PW.

I Am a Masterpiece! An Empowering Story About Inclusivity and Growing Up with Down Syndrome

Mia Armstrong, illus. by Alexandra Thompson. Random House, $19.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-593-56797-5. In her autobiographical debut, the 12-year-old actor, model, and activist shares her experience living with Down syndrome. See our q&a with Armstrong.

Jimmys Rhythm & Blues: The Extraordinary Life of James Baldwin

Michelle Meadows, illus. by Jamiel Law. HarperCollins, $19.99 (48p) ISBN 978-0-06-327347-4. This picture book highlights the life of Baldwin, including his work as a writer, activist, and a Black, queer icon. Ages 48. The book received a starred review from PW.

Jose Feeds the World: How a Famous Chef Feeds Millions of People in Need Around the World

David Unger, illus. by Marta Alvarez Miguens. Duopress, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-7282-7952-7. Ages 48. This biography of philanthropist chef Jose Andres foregrounds how his background and career led to his founding of the World Central Kitchen.

Just One More Sleep: All Good Things Come to Those Who Wait... and Wait... and Wait

Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell. Philomel, $18.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-593-52704-7. Ages 37. In the latest picture book from longtime collaborators Curtis and Cornell, a child counts down the days until their next birthday with anticipation. See our q&a with Curtis.

The Last Stand

Antwan Eady, illus. by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey. Knopf, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-593-48057-1. Ages 37. As a grandfather gets older and is no longer able to run his farmers market stand, his grandson helps take over and the community comes together in support. The book received a starred review from PW.

My Block Looks Like

Janelle Harper, illus. by Frank Morrison. Viking, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-593-52630-9. Ages 48. A young protagonist travels through the Bronx, spotlighting all their favorite qualities about their neighborhood. The book received a starred review from PW.

Pepper & Me

Beatrice Alemagna. Hippo Park, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-1-66264-050-6. Ages 48. Alemagna chronicles the rich relationship that develops between a child and the scab that forms on their leg after a tumble.

The Three Little Tardigrades

Sandra Fay. Holt/Godwin, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-2507-7609-9. Ages 48. This STEM-centric tale introduces a trio of tardigrades who leave home to explore the big wide world but must avoid the Big Hairy Wolf Spider. The book received a starred review from PW.

When I Wrap My Hair

Shauntay Grant, illus. by Jenin Mohammed. Quill Tree, $19.99 (32p) ISBN 978-0-06-309391-1. Ages 48. A brown-skinned child shares the affirmating experience of wrapping her hair with her headwrap. The book received a starred review from PW.

When You Have to Wait

Melanie Conklin, illus. by Leah Hong. Roaring Brook, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-250-81654-2. Ages 48. A child learns to appreciate the virtue of patience. The book received a starred review from PW.

You Broke It!

Liana Finck. Rise x Penguin Workshop, $18.99 (48p) ISBN 978-0-5936-6040-9. Ages 35. New Yorker cartoonist Finck puts a new spin on the concept of clueless grown-ups in her picture book debut. See our q&a with Finck. The book received a starred review from PW.

Middle Grade

Emma and the Love Spell

Meredith Ireland. Bloomsbury, $17.99 (288p) ISBN 978-1-54761-260-4. Ages 912. Korean American adoptee Emma Davidson uses her magical powers to reconcile the fallout between her best friends parents, in hopes that her bestie wont have to move.

Just Shy of Ordinary

A.J. Sass. Little, Brown, $16.99 (368p) ISBN 978-0-316-50617-5. Ages 812. After reading online that having a routine can help alleviate anxiety, nonbinary 13-year-old Shai Stern is determined to implement their new-normal plan to get their life under control. The book received a starred review from PW.

The Reckoning

Wade Hudson. Crown, $18.99 (256p) ISBN 978-0-593-64777-6. Ages 812. Black middle schooler Lamar Philips dreams of becoming a famous filmmaker and plans to make a documentary about his grandfather. But before he can begin filming, Gramps is killed in a shooting, and the city demands justice.

A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits #1)

Lisa Yee, illus. by Dan Santat. Random House, $14.99 (288p) ISBN 978-1-9848-3029-6. Ages 812. Olive Cobin Zhang is recruited for an experimental group of covert child operatives and befriends her fellow operatives as they work together on their first investigation. Read more about Yee and Santats collaboration on the series starter here.

Shark Teeth

Sherri Winston. Bloomsbury, $17.99 (304p) ISBN 978-1-5476-0850-8. Ages 911. Sharkita is sent to live with her mother after a stint in foster care and worries that despite her mothers promises that things will be different this time, things have not changed. The book received a starred review from PW.

The World-Famous Nine

Ben Guterson, illus. by Kristina Kister. Little, Brown/Ottaviano, $16.99 (384p) ISBN 978-0-316-48444-2. Ages 812. Tween Zander Olinga discovers the shopping destination Number Nine Plaza while visiting his grandfather; however, strange occurrences, old legends, and the arrival of a possibly demonic entity named Darkbloom put the Nines reputationand very existenceat risk.

Young Adult

The Atlas of Us

Kristin Dwyer. HarperTeen, $19.99 (336p) ISBN 978-0-06-308858-0. Ages 14 and up. Grieving the loss of her father, Atlas James joins the Bear Creek Community Service program where she finds the chance to honor her adventurer father and turn her life around. The book received a starred review from PW.

Diary of a Confused Feminist

Kate Weston. Simon & Schuster, $21.99 (384p) ISBN 978-1-6659-3794-8. Ages 14 and up. In this story told via diary entries, Kat Evans balances her desire to be an excellent feminist with crushes, bullies, and mental health struggles. See our q&a with Weston.

A Drop of Venom

Sajni Patel. Disney/Riordan, $18.99 (416p) ISBN 978-1-368-09268-5. Ages 14 and up. Sixteen-year-old Manisha is imbued with snake-like power after being assaulted and utilizes her new ability to seek vengeance. The book received a starred review from PW.

Escaping Mr. Rochester

L.L. McKinney. HarperTeen, $19.99 (352p) ISBN 978-0-06-298626-9. Ages 13 and up. In this retelling of the Charlotte Bronte novel, after Black 19-year-old Jane Eyre takes a job as governess for Edward Rochester, her friendship with his daughter and secretly confined wife lead her to question her employers intentions. The book received a starred review from PW.

A Fragile Enchantment

Allison Saft. Wednesday, $20 (384p) ISBN 978-1-250892-83-6. Ages 13 and up. Dressmaker Niamh O Conchobhair must choose between her relationship with high-society groom Kit or her duty to the working class when she uncovers secrets among the royals. The book received a starred review from PW.

The Getaway List

Emma Lord. Wednesday, $20 (320p) ISBN 978-1-250-90399-0. Ages 12 and up. Recent high school graduate Riley Larson decides to spend the summer checking off items on her Getaway List by visiting her estranged best friend Tom in New York City. But their friendship soon shifts as they try to carve out a future for themselves amid their blossoming feelings for one another. See our q&a with Lord. The book received a starred review from PW.

Into the Sunken City

Dinesh Thiru. HarperTeen, $19.99 (368p) ISBN 978-0-06331-051-3. Ages 13 and up. While trying to survive in a world of constant rainfall, 18-year-old Jin Haldar agrees to dive down and raid the drowned ruins of Las Vegas for a hidden cache of gold. The book received a starred review from PW.

Lunar New Year Love Story

Gene Luen Yang, illus. by LeUyen Pham. First Second, $25.99 (352p) ISBN 978-1-62672-810-3; $17.99 paper ISBN 978-1-250-90826-1. Ages 14 and up. In this graphic novel collaboration, Valentina Tran makes a bargain with her imaginary friend Saint V: find love within the year or give up her heart to Saint V, who will protect it from further pain. The book received a starred review from PW.

A Place for Vanishing

Ann Fraistat. Delacorte, $19.99 (464p) ISBN 978-0-593-38221-9. Ages 12 and up. Libby Feldman and her family move into her mothers childhood home, a crumbling Victorian mansion with a history of mysterious disappearances. When Libby and new friends dive into the dark pasts of the houses former residents, they discover that the sinister truth is tangled with their own buried traumas. The book received a starred review from PW.

Poemhood: Our Black Revival

Edited by Taylor Byas, Erica Martin, and Amber McBride. HarperTeen, $19.99 (160p) ISBN 978-0-06-322528-2. Ages 13 and up. This poetry collection gathers 37 writers who seek to encapsulate the depth and diversity of Black experiences through poetry. The book received a starred review from PW.

Shut Up, This Is Serious

Carolina Ixta. Quill Tree, $19.99 (368p) ISBN 978-0-06-328786-0. Ages 14 and up. Best friends Belen and Leti navigate an unplanned pregnancy and financial precarity during their senior year. See our q&a with Ixta. The book received a starred review from PW.

So Let Them Burn

Kamilah Cole. Little, Brown, $19.99 (400p) ISBN 978-0-31653-463-5. Ages 12 and up. Chosen by the Gods, Faron Vincent and her sister Elara are trying to help the queen keep the peace with the Langley Empire, which only years prior attempted to destroy their island. When Elara bonds with one of the Empires dragons and must travel back with them, the siblings try to uncover ways to break the bond while theyre separated for the first time. See our Whats the Buzz? article on Coles debut. The book received a starred review from PW.

Wander in the Dark

Jumata Emill. Delacorte, $19.99 (400p) ISBN 978-0-593-65185-8. Ages 12 and up. When Black 17-year-old Amir Trudeau finds himself the prime suspect in a high-profile murder case, he works with his half-brother Marcel to find the true culprit and repair their strained relationship. The book received a starred review from PW.

Yours from the Tower

Sally Nicholls. Walker Books US, $17.99 (256p) ISBN 978-1-5362-2319-4. Ages 14 and up. In this novel set in 1896, the friendship of teens Tirzah, Sophia, and Polly are chronicled via letters after they leave boarding school and embark on separate lives. The book received a starred review from PW.
Reps from the American Library Association reported that the second in-person LibLearnX conference, which began on Friday, January 19 and closed today in Baltimore, saw a decline in attendance from last years event. ALA officials put total attendance at 2,006 (including 391 exhibitor attendees and 109 virtual attendees) down from the 2,659 (1,712 paid; 757 exhibitors; 190 virtual) who attended the 2023 event in New Orleans.

The decline was not unexpected. A snowstorm and bitter cold offered challenges to travelers and likely impacted last minute onsite registrations. And the bi-annual Public Library Association annual conferenceone of ALAs most popular and well-attended conferencesis set for April 3-5 in Columbus, Ohio.

Despite the modest attendance, LibLearnX 2024 once again offered an engaging program for attendees. Among the shows highlights, the event kicked off with a well-attended opening reception that honored the 2023 winners of the annual I Love My Librarians awards. And the main speaker program featured compelling talks from Mia Armstrong, Kate DiCamillo, Antonya Hylton, George M. Johnson, Michele Norris, and Jesus Trejo. In the professional program, hot topics included defending the freedom to read, sustainability, and AI.

On the awards front, the ALAs Youth Media Awards were announced this morning (see our full coverage here), with the prestigious John Newbery Medal going to Dave Eggers, for The Eyes and the Impossible, and the Randolph Caldecott Medal going to Vashti Harrison for Big.

And on Saturday, January 20, Amanda Peters was announced as the winner of the 2024 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction for The Berry Pickers (Catapult) and Roxanna Asgarian took home the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction for We Were Once a Family: A Story of Love, Death, and Child Removal in America (Farrar, Straus, and Giroux).

LibLearnX is the upstart reimagined replacement event for the ALAs long-running Midwinter meeting, which often drew in the neighborhood of 7,000 total attendees (including more than 8,000 who attended the ALAs the last in-person Midwinter Meeting in Philadelphia in 2020). The pandemic forced both the final ALA Midwinter Meeting in 2021 and the inaugural LibLearnX in 2022 to go virtual only.

ALA officials will hope that warm weather (and no PLA) will draw bigger numbers to next years event: the 2025 LibLearnX is set for next January in Phoenix, Arizona. The show then returns to the east coast in 2026, set for National Harbor, Maryland. No LibLearnX locations are currently announced for 2027 and beyond.

This article has been updated with final attendance figures.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Another group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs), 30 families totaling 106 people, who left Baku's Garadagh area, has arrived in Azerbaijan's Fuzuli city., Trend reports.

The newly arrived families were given keys to their apartments.

Officials from Azerbaijan's State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, as well as the President's Special Representative Office in the liberated lands of the Karabakh economic zone (except the Shusha district), attended the key-handover ceremony.

The families will live in newly built residences in Fuzuli.

As of present, 440 households, or 1,625 individuals, have a permanent settlement in Fuzuli.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
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Colin Morgan from Humans and Annabel Scholey from The Salisbury Poisonings have signed on to star in the BBC's four-part psychological thriller, Dead and Buried.

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The cast for the miniseries also includes Kerri Quinn, Waj Ali, Owen Roe and Niamh Walsh.

"Outside the supermarket with her young son, Cathy (Scholey) encounters Michael (Morgan) -- the man convicted of the brutal murder of her brother, 20 years earlier. Ignoring the advice of her best friend, Cathy takes to social media, uncovering the successful career and family life Michael has forged for himself since early release from prison, while she grieved for her brother," the British broadcaster said in a press release on Monday.

"Re-traumatized by her past, Cathy instigates a clandestine relationship with the man she despises, embarking on a campaign of harassment and deceit. As Cathy's obsession grows, dark fantasies of revenge and reality blur as she sets out on a campaign of psychological warfare to destroy Michael's life."

Filming is to begin in Ireland and Northern Ireland this spring on the program, which had its origins as a short story by Colin Bateman and later was adapted as a one-woman stage show.

"Although it has changed greatly, the actual conundrum at the heart of the story is universal and timeless -- what do you do if you meet someone who has prospered after murdering one of your loved ones?" Bateman, who is showrunner on the series, said in a statement. "Do you say something? Do you do something? How would you react?"
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The Service, that operates with the support of Azercell, published its annual report

The Azerbaijan Children Hotline (ACH), received nearly 4500 calls in the year 2023. The main goal of the Hotline, created with the support of Azercell, is to provide social counseling, psychological, and legal assistance to every child facing difficulties. Last year ACH received 1329 calls for legal assistance; 1080 calls related to psychological issues and 1004 inquiries concerning education have been addressed. 718 calls covered social, and 196 were on health issues. 126 calls were related to other matters. 53% of these applications were submitted by women, 46% by men, and 1% in anonymous form.

The target group of ACH encompasses individuals under the age of 18 and related individuals. Working 24/7, the Hotline investigates service requests, ensures referrals to relevant institutions, and provides support in a wide spectrum, ranging from daily topics to serious issues such as violence and bullying, and regularly conducts educational events. It should be noted that during its operation from 2010 to 2023, the hotline received more than 72,000 requests.

Azerbaijan Children Hotline with the continuous support of Azercell operates through 116111 short number, 4 mobile numbers (+994 50 680 22 80, +994 51 580 22 80, +994 51 880 11 80, +994 51 880 22 80), e-mail ([email protected]), its website, Facebook and Instagram social networks, and the mobile application "usaqqaynarxetti".
Nicole Kidman walked the red carpet Sunday.

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The 56-year-old actress and producer attended the New York premiere of her Prime Video series Expats.

Kidman wore a backless black Atelier Versace dress with a thigh-high slit and green lining.

Fashion designer Donatella Versace praised the look on Instagram.

"The most beautiful Nicole Kidman wearing Atelier Versace to the premiere of Expats. You are so talented @nicolekidman and I am honoured to see you in my designs," she wrote.

Expats creator Lulu Wang and cast members Jack Huston , Sarayu Blue, Ji-young Yoo and Brian Tee also attended the premiere.

Expats is based on the Janice Y.K. Lee novel The Expatriates. The show takes place in Hong Kong in 2014 and follows three American women -- Margaret (Kidman), Hilary (Blue) and Mercy (Yoo), whose lives intersect after a tragedy.

Prime Video shared a trailer for the series in December.

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Expats will have a two-episode premiere Friday.
Disney/John & Joseph Photography

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 01/21/2024



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

couple Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist have revealed why they had decided to get married so quickly after their engagement aired on ABC.Gerry and Theresa's engagement aired on finale in late November, and host Jesse Palmer announced on After the Final Rose how the couple would be getting married live on television for all of their fans to watch.Gerry and Theresa then tied the knot in Palm Springs, CA, for The Golden Wedding special, which aired January 4 on ABC.Considering the pair had very little time to plan their wedding and even enjoy their engagement, Bachelor in Paradise spouses Joe Amabile and Serena Pitt asked Gerry and Theresa why they rushed their wedding during the January 16 episode of the "Bachelor Happy Hour" podcast."So there's a number of factors, I guess. But the first one is when you look at someone and you know it's right and you're 72, you realize that, you know, waiting a month or a couple of months could possibly be a large percentage the remaining days you have on Earth," Gerry explained.Gerry laughed at his bleak outlook on the future and then added, "You want to get to it, if it's right!"Theresa also has experience with a quick-turnaround wedding given she had planned a wedding in just two days for her first marriage to Billy, who passed away in 2014 from kidney failure after 42 years of marriage."It's true. It was my mom who did it, and I don't even know how she got the photographer and flowers and a cake and a church! We got married in a church, but our reception was in our basement," Theresa shared."I don't know how she did that! But yeah!"Serena therefore joked about how a month probably felt like a lifetime to her, and Theresa agreed time was a luxury for her second wedding.Gerry also gushed on the podcast about how he was "1,000 percent convinced" in Costa Rica -- in the final days of filming -- that Theresa is the right woman for him."That's when I felt like I had the final sentence of the final chapter written," Gerry noted.Following the wedding, Gerry packed his suitcase, grabbed his beloved goldendoodle, and traveled to Theresa's home state of New Jersey on January 9.After a 10-hour drive, Gerry -- an Iowa native who has been living on a lake in Indiana since 2017 -- and his beloved dog, Cody, arrived at Theresa's home in Shrewsbury, NJ, where star was greeted with a home-cooked meal.The couple has since been trying new restaurants, and they even recreated their first date with a trip to a diner.Gerry and Theresa's entire post-show relationship has been in the public eye, and so Gerry recently shared if he's already grown tired of the fame and constant scrutiny "Do [I] get tired of it? I don't because people get to share in the joy of the story and the joy of the show," Gerry said during a joint interview with Theresa on the January 2 episode of the "Off the Vine with Kaitlyn Bristowe " podcast."Just walking into our [New York City hotel for New Year's] last night, Theresa walked in the door and I was waiting for her. There were four young ladies there waiting to take our picture together. So it's constant."Theresa added how "the best part is meeting so many people" and getting "to talk to strangers all the time," which she thinks is "so cool."Theresa also said she taught Gerry how to post on Instagram Stories and they've leaned a lot about social media since filming the show.Theresa shared how she enjoys reading messages on social media that she has inspired others to find love at any age."It's just hard to respond to every single person. We wish we could and we want to," Theresa said.Gerry said he's "not sure there are words to describe" his overall experience on ."I asked Theresa, 'Did you have even an inkling about how big this would be?' Because our families have joined together," Gerry explained."It's not just that we have impacted and changed each other, but we've changed our families and we've changed people who have watched the show."Gerry said he senses how has given people a newfound sense of hope about finding love, even in one's senior years."And I hope they find humor in some of the things we do. So there are so many ripple-effect changes. They're all positive in my opinion, that this has caused.""I looked forward to an amazing experience and to meet other women -- and hoping that it would happen -- but how in the world did this happen?! This is amazing!"Before viewers even saw Gerry's happily-ever-after ending play out on TV, became a cultural phenomenon and Gerry turned into an overnight celebrity.But when the Los Angeles Times asked Gerry in December if he'll continue to seek stardom or just live a quiet life with Theresa now that the show is over, Gerry replied, "I don't think those two things are mutually exclusive.""I can have a great, quiet life with Theresa and still look at the aspirations and ambitions that may be out there," he elaborated."But I will say this, I am absolutely going to savor every moment until I get to that altar and say my 'I do's.' I want every single moment to be as joyful for her as it is for me, and I never want to look back and feel I hurried through anything. We'll deal with the aspirations after that."Gerry gushed about how he had been feeling pure "joy" since finale.Gerry concluded that he and Theresa "just make a perfect pair" and they're "better as a couple than [they] are individually."Gerry selected Theresa as his winner over his runner-up Leslie Fhima , who was absolutely devastated by her breakup with Gerry and felt a little "uncomfortable" during Gerry and Theresa's wedding ceremony.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
The Indian pharmaceutical market (IPM) grew 6.8 per cent to touch a turnover of ~1.93 trillion in calendar year 2023, despite volumes going down marginally by 0.9 per cent.

Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters

This indicates the price increase has been the major growth driver.

Growth in the moving annual turnover (the previous 12 months turnover) in December was 5.1 per cent and that in new product introduction 2.6 per cent, while volumes dipped 0.9 per cent, leading to an overall growth rate of 6.8 per cent, according to the data from market research firm Pharmatrac.

Cardiology, anti-infectives, and gastro-intestinal therapies were in the top three  growing 6.3 per cent, 8 per cent, and 5.2 per cent, respectively, in value terms.

Together these three therapy areas constitute 38 per cent of the IPM.

Interestingly, cardiac and gastro-intestinal therapies saw a decline in unit sales (or volumes), the data showed.

All the growth drivers are positive. While anti-infective therapy has shown overall growth of 10.3 per cent, its contribution in volumes is high, thereby indicating an increase in demand for such drugs, said Sheetal Sapale, vice-president (commercial), Pharmarack.

With an 8 per cent growth rate in the anti-infectives category, it is not surprising that GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals (GSK) Augmentin is the top-selling brand in 2023, the second year in a row.

In 2023 sales of Augmentin grew 9.9 per cent to Rs 804 crore, and the volumes almost 12 per cent.

Augmentin has been setting standards in quality and innovation for over four decades, and continues to be the hallmark of quality and trust with health care professionals for patient care and improving treatment outcomes, the GSK India spokesperson told Business Standard.

He added last year they contemporised their portfolio with the launch of Augmentin ES, indicated for short-term treatment of paediatric patients with bacterial infections.

Among companies, while the top players registered value growth in the domestic market, for some players, however, the volumes declined.

Companies like Macleods (12.1 per cent), Aristo (11.2 per cent), Mankind Pharma (11.1 per cent), Cipla (10.4 per cent), and USV (10.4 per cent) have posted significant value growth.

The top five companies remained the same as in 2022.

However, there have been changes in the pecking order.

For example, Torrent Pharmaceuticals and Alkem improved their ranks from seventh to sixth and eighth to seventh, respectively. Similarly, Lupin dropped from sixth spot to eighth spot.

Dr Reddys Laboratories dropped from 11th spot to 12th one. USV jumped from 18th in 2022 to 15th in 2023.

The value includes bonus units, which are given by companies to trade in the form of several schemes.

It is based on the invoice value or the price to the retailer.

Without the bonus units, however, Cipla is at third position, followed by Mankind at fourth.

Our aim has always been to create an institution keeping the long-term intangibles in mind. People in Mankind must be happy, said Rajeev Juneja, vice-chairman and managing director.

We want to keep offering differentiated products -- and also focus on quality, affordability and accessibility for patients.

"These numbers are an outcome of that, he added.

Cipla posted 12.3 per cent growth in volumes too, apart from strong turnover growth.

This may be attributed to its strength in trade generics.

Among multinationals, Pfizer saw an 8.8 per cent decline in turnover, and a 10.2 per cent drop in volumes.

Sanofi India too declined 4.7 per cent in value and 6.6 per cent unit volumes.
Delhi-headquartered Fortis Healthcare is open to acquisition of hospitals with over 250-300 bed sizes as part of its strategy to grow at a faster clip.

Photograph: Saumya Khandelwal/Reuters

It may also opt for a neutral brand name soon.

Neutral brand is a new brand, which is not owned by any of the stakeholders.

Ever since Malaysias IHH Healthcare picked a 31 per cent stake in 2018, Fortis has been going slow in bed additions.

It has been focusing more on consolidating its business operations, repairing its balance sheet and improving profitability.

Having turned around its operations, Fortis is now embarking on an ambitious 2,000-bed expansion over the next 3-4 years.

It is open to making acquisitions (it recently acquired a 350-bed hospital in Manesar), and is also considering shifting to a neutral brand distinct from Fortis.

The current brand name Fortis (as well as the earlier diagnostic business brand SRL) was owned by ex-promoter entities.

We have taken a calculative view that at least for SRL, we have moved to the Agilus brand, and we have successfully completed that last year.

"Regarding Fortis, the matter is in court, and we are watching it very carefully.

"Our action will depend on the outcome of court proceedings, said Vivek Kumar Goyal, chief financial officer (CFO), Fortis Healthcare.

We are open to various options, including retaining the Fortis brand, and maybe shifting to the Parkway brand or a neutral brand.

"So, all the options are open for us right now and we are exploring them very carefully.

"Well come to the market once we finalise on these, he added.

Parkway brand is owned by IHH Healthcare. Goyal said Agilus is a neutral brand that is now fully owned by the company.

The Fortis brand is owned by ex-promoter entities, and the brand licence agreement has expired, Goyal added.

We have been accounting for brand royalty fees.

"These fees, calculated at 0.25 per cent of our revenue are in accordance with terms of the last expired agreement, he said.

Meanwhile, the hospital major is focusing on expanding the bed count.

It has been investing Rs 350 crore or so every year, and in FY25, it has already invested close to Rs 500 crore.

In all, Fortis has invested Rs 1,500 crore in the past five years, and a major portion of this capex till date has gone into medical equipment and maintenance capex.

It has also invested in brownfield capex (especially in existing facilities with additional land parcels).

Around Rs 200 crore every year has gone into maintenance capex.

Goyal said that in the current financial year it is targeting Rs 750 crore capex.

This year, it has a plan to add 250 beds or so.

For the next three years, Fortis capex would be around Rs 600 crore on an average every year (of which maintenance capex would be around Rs 200 crore each year).

Most of this would be funded from internal cash flow generation.

We have a very healthy cash flow generation, and we are reducing debt every year.

"In fact, we have started paying a dividend from last year onwards.

"Cash flow is not an issue, and we will be able to meet this entire brownfield capex and maintenance capex requirement from our internal accruals, Goyal said.

"The current debt numbers involve the amount it has invested in the recent acquisition in Manesar, where Fortis has acquired a 350-bed capacity for Rs 250 crore.

"We are actively looking now on the acquisition of things.

"We have started with Medeor Hospital (Manesar) and there are other acquisition opportunities which we are exploring.

"If it fits our overall scheme of things, we will definitely go for the acquisition, Goyal said.

As of September 2023, Fortis had a net debt of around Rs 393 crore.

This has come down from around Rs 1,500 crore at the time IHH picked up stake in Fortis.

Goyal said since it wishes to accelerate capex spend, the debt levels would remain at Rs 350-400 crore levels.
The Opposition's stand on the Ayodhya consecration is puzzling.

Their only objection seems to be that the BJP has hijacked a religious event for political benefit.

In saying this, the Opposition is either being naive or hypocritical, argues Jyoti Punwani.

IMAGE: A worker decorates the entrance gate on the eve of the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, January 21, 2024. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo

Does one have to be a Mumbaikar to associate the new Ram temple in Ayodhya with blood on the streets?

Wasn't the demolition of the Babri Masjid the foundation of this grand temple? What followed that demolition?

A generation may have grown up after December 6, 1992, which has no memory of the communal violence that broke out in Mumbai hours after the Babri Masjid fell. But even if one counts only those directly affected by the violence which claimed 900 lives, there would be at least 10,000 Mumbaikars for whom Ayodhya will forever be associated with bloodshed and ruin.

The RSS and Opindia have been visiting the families of those (the number varies from 16 to 28) who died in the police firing in 1990, when BJP/RSS supporters had gathered in Ayodhya to damage the Babri Masjid, in defiance of prohibitory orders.

What of the families of those who were killed by fellow Indians for no other reason than religious hatred? Not just in Mumbai, the December 6 demolition sparked riots in Surat, Ahmedabad, Kanpur, Delhi, Bhopal, and Ayodhya itself where 17 persons were killed on that very day.

What of those killed earlier, in the wake of L K Advani's rath yatra in 1990? Aimed at whipping up Hindu sentiments in favour of building the Ram temple at the very spot where stood the Babri Masjid, the yatra left a trail of blood through Uttar Pradesh, as well as in cities such as Indore, Hyderabad.

These lives wouldn't matter to the RSS, but surely they should to the Opposition? Why has no party bothered to visit these families and find out how the violent Ram Mandir campaign changed their lives?

***

Indeed, the Opposition's stand on the Ayodhya consecration is puzzling. Their only objection seems to be that the BJP has hijacked a religious event for political benefit.

In saying this, the Opposition is either being naive or hypocritical. When was the Ram Mandir project not political? L K Advani decided to go on his rath yatra with a political aim: to counter the political upheaval caused by reservations for OBCs introduced by then prime minister V P Singh, in accordance with the Mandal Commission recommendations.

The character of the campaign was political. L K Advani linked Ram to nationalism; a Ram drohi was automatically a desh drohi.

The country was declared categorically and exclusively for Hindus: 'Yeh desh Hinduon ka/na kisi ke baap ka.' Musalmans were called gaddars (traitors) and given just two places to go to: Kabristan ya Pakistan. Not one of the slogans that emerged from the Babri Masjid Ram Janmabhoomi movement that spanned six years, was religious.

It was during this movement that the greeting 'Jai Siya Ram' became the war cry 'Jai Sri Ram'. In January 1993, during the second phase of the Mumbai post-demolition riots, Muslims were lynched to chants of 'Jai Sri Ram'.

The initial phase of the Ayodhya campaign took the BJP from two seats in 1984 to 86 seats in the 1989 Lok Sabha. Since then, the BJP has blatantly milked the Ayodhya Ram Mandir for electoral purposes. A more critical press than what exists today invariably wrote edits on this cynical use of religious feelings.

Given this background, how can we expect the consecration of this temple to be religious, and not political?

IMAGE: Sadhus and devotees near the Hanuman Garhi Mandir on the eve of the pran pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, January 21, 2024. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo

***

The Opposition could well have given another reason for not attending the consecration. The new temple has been built after demolishing another's place of worship, at the cost of thousands of innocent lives. How can such a structure be a place of worship?

By making no reference to the violence at the heart of the Ayodhya project, the Opposition has shown that Muslims, killed for no reason other than their faith during this long campaign, barely feature in their consciousness. It seems the constituents of INDIA simply take Muslim votes for granted.

IMAGE: Vishwa Hindu Parishad workers in Prayagraj carrying pots containing water of the Ganga move towards Ayodhya ahead of the pran prathistha ceremony. Photograph: ANI Photo

***

Muslims certainly are nowhere in the grand national celebration that the government, with the full throated support of a fawning media, is conducting on January 22. Or maybe they are.

This State-backed national event is also being projected as a kind of triumph, the 'beginning of India's cultural revival and national pride', to quote Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

If a nation's pride depends on building a temple after destroying a mosque, implicit in that pride is the humiliation of those who held the mosque in reverence. Also implicit is the exclusion of other faiths from the nation's pride.

With the Government of India backing this event, India can now boast of joining the company of theocratic nations. For those who prided themselves for being citizens of a secular country, where all communities are equally valued, at least officially, January 22, 2024 can only be a day of mortification.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Wouldn't it be better to join the celebrations with the vast Hindu majority while at the same time criticising Mr Modi/BJP/RSS for politicising it? notes Shekhar Gupta.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses the party's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam, January 19, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

An apparition has stalked the Congress party for nearly four decades, in the process diminishing it from 414 seats in the Lok Sabha to 52, an improvement over 44 in 2014.

The construction of the Ram temple provided the party a Ram-given opportunity to shake it off.

The Congress leadership blew it. The apparition is the party's ideological confusion about how it defines secularism today.

Obvious questions arise following its refusal to attend the consecration ceremony of the temple.

One, does its unchanging post-1996 ideology harmonise with the needs of its current electoral politics?

How does it reconcile the contradiction of welcoming the Supreme Court judgment on the temple and yet staying out of its opening, which will be celebrated by hundreds of millions of Hindus, many of whom are its committed voters?

What will you tell your voters now, Hindus, Muslims and secularists?

The Hindus might see you as sullen losers, yo-yoing between welcoming the Supreme Court verdict and your old 'Muslim appeasement'.

The Muslims know you failed to protect the mosque, welcomed the temple verdict, and now seek their favour by not attending the inauguration.

For the hard secularists, you failed the moment you welcomed the Supreme Court's temple/mosque order. All three categories of voters might see you as hypocrites.

The party has had decades to navigate this. Its biggest failure lies in the fact that its internal debate -- if there's been any -- has been muddled.

For all these decades, the party has been waiting like the hapless pigeon sitting with its eyes shut, hoping the cat will not see it.

A pigeon waiting to be preyed upon with its eyes closed?

It's a cruel description, but unfortunately fitting for a party so complacent that even after the disaster of 2014, it did not see the threat to its existence unless it sorted out its fundamental ideological positions.

By now, it should have known that the Modi-Shah Bharatiya Janata Party had redefined the national contest around three clear issues: Culture (religion), identity (nationalism) and security.

On each of these, the Congress has looked lost, waiting for the other side to make the first move.

Nobody defeats a strong incumbent by merely being reactive, not offering an alternative vision.

This vision has to be on these three key issues we just listed. It can't be Rs 6,000 a month, free power, free this and free that.

You can't fight issues that tug at people's hearts with ideas that are purely transactional.

A voter will question how much money or freebies can equate to their faith, national pride, or family's security.

The truth is, on each of these three, the Congress's record has not been a cipher. It is just that it's unwilling to talk about it.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi at the Shri Ram Janamboomi temple in Ayodhya as Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, left, looks on. Photograph: ANI Photo

It was under a Congress government that the locks of the 'temple' at Ayodhya were opened so prayers could begin, and the ritual foundation laying (shilanyas) became possible.

Rajiv Gandhi launched his 1989 campaign from Ayodhya, promising to usher in Ram Rajya.

If he was over-correcting after what he saw as missteps that were viewed by Hindus as Muslim appeasement -- like the law to reverse the Shah Bano judgment and the ban on Salman Rushdie's The Satanic Verses -- it only reminds us that this ideological contradiction is a chronic one.

Both Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi had great clarity on this in their own different ways.

Nehru was agnostic, acknowledged as such, and could navigate away from religious politics in his era while also systematically purging his party of all the stalwarts of the Hindu nationalist Right.

In contrast, Indira Gandhi wore her Hinduness around her neck, wearing a rudraksh mala.

She was never going to cede the Hindus to the Jan Sangh (the BJP's parent).

That's why she never attacked it as a 'Hindu' party. She merely called it a 'Bania' (traders') party and hailed Savarkar as 'Veer'.

She also knew she had no challenger for the Muslim vote. The confusion started after her.

IMAGE: Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh releases a poster of Lord Ram in Bhopal, January 20, 2024. ahead of the pran pratishtha ceremony. Photograph: ANI Photo

One of the things really working for Mr Modi now -- as underlined during the recent assembly polls -- is the idea that he is enhancing India's global image.

The Congress did not do badly on this count under Nehru, Indira, or even Rajiv.

Why it won't talk about it is intriguing. Possibly because it doesn't want to also talk about the two non-Gandhi prime ministers who followed?

It is easy to mock Mr Modi for his almighty personality cult, the culture of sycophancy.

A voter will, however, ask what is the problem if in the process my country's stock is rising? Do you have an alternative that might work even better? Voters need alternatives, new ideas.

On national security, Mr Modi has a pretty good record, especially on its internal dimension.

There's been no significant terror attack outside Jammu and Kashmir since his rise (except the Pathankot airbase) and the definite improvement in law and order in some of the BJP-ruled states, especially Uttar Pradesh, is being rewarded by the voters.

The Congress, however, is not even willing to say how firmly -- even brutally -- its governments put down challenges to internal security.

One challenge it faces is that it would involve praising P V Narasimha Rao, who inherited the insurgencies in Kashmiri and Punjab at their peak and crushed them within 1991-1993.

This Congress does not even make enough of Rajiv Gandhi's successes in Assam, Mizoram and the near-success in Punjab through the accord with sant Harchand Singh Longowal.

Now who was he? If you are a Congress voter or well-wisher, you might wish to google. Because the party leaders won't tell you.

For reasons I have never been able to understand, the Rajiv era is marked by the forgetfulness they reserve for both Rao and Manmohan Singh.

Or they would be telling you all the time how national growth rates were higher under these governments than in the past nine years.

The Congress, therefore, is beset with several contradictions.

Who does it want to invoke from its past and who does it want to denounce?

Where does it stand on Kashmir and the issue of Article 370? Does it accept the changes or will it reverse them if elected to power?

All of these are important, but the most critical is where they stand on the temple and, by implication, Lord Ram.

Wouldn't it be better to join the celebrations with the vast Hindu majority while at the same time criticising Mr Modi/BJP/RSS for politicising it?

It wouldn't be the perfect option, but it would be enormously better than looking like that proverbial thin-skinned, fretful uncle who throws a tantrum at every wedding.

By special arrangement with The Print

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The Azerbaijan Army Units, stationed in mountainous areas with difficult terrain and harsh climate, organize high-level service and combat activities, Trend reports, referring to the Ministry of Defense.

Necessary measures are taken by the engineering units to keep the supply roads and communication lines in working order.

Movement is restricted for the safety of personnel and vehicle convoys, and snow clearing of supply roads is carried out in shifts.

To note, the necessary measures for engineering support are continued in a planned manner in collaboration with other state agencies.

Stay up-to-date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) leaders stayed away from the Ram Temple consecration ceremony at Ayodhya but faith remained on the agenda for many of them on Monday with Rahul Gandhi protesting after he was stopped from visiting a temple in Assam and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee holding an all-faith rally.

IMAGE: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee participated in an all-faith rally (Sanhati rally), in Kolkata on Monday, January 22, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

As Bharatiya Janata Party leaders went all out to project the event as a moment of national pride, some leaders were directly critical of the ceremony with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, belonging to the Communist Party of India-Marxist, slamming the state's role in the Ram Temple consecration, saying the line that demarcates religion and state seems to be 'getting thinner and thinner'.

A few hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the consecration of the Ram Temple, Vijayan in a message said that a time has come when the inauguration of a religious place of worship in the country was being celebrated as a state event.

Many INDIA bloc leaders had earlier declined the invite to the ceremony citing diverse reasons with the Congress top brass alleging that it had been made into a 'BJP-RSS event'.

However, religion remained the dominant theme for many INDIA bloc leaders on the day with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, cabinet ministers and Aam Aadmi Party MLAs taking part in various events across the national capital as part of the party's plan to mark the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

The AAP organised shobha yatras and bhandaras in different parts of the national capital to celebrate the 'pran pratistha (consecration)' ceremony.

In a post in Hindi on X, Kejriwal said he participated in bhandaras organised in different areas of Delhi.

Rahul Gandhi, who is leading the Congress' Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam, was stopped at Haibargaon en route to the birthplace of Vaishnav saint Srimanta Sankardeva.

He along with senior Congress leaders and supporters staged a dharna while party MP Gaurav Gogoi and Batadrava MLA Sibamoni Bora proceeded to the birthplace to resolve the issue.

"During a law and order crisis, everyone can go to the birthplace of Vaishnav saint Srimanta Sankardeva, only Rahul Gandhi cannot go," Gandhi said in Assam's Nagaon.

He said they had received an invitation on January 11 but 'on Sunday we were told that there is a law and order situation'.

The managing committee of the Sri Sankardeva Sattra on Sunday had announced that they will not allow the Congress leader to visit before 3 pm on January 22 due to events related to the Ayodhya consecration ceremony.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier on Sunday said at a press conference that he requested Gandhi not to visit before the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Deviating from his party line, Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh, who is the son of state Congress chief Pratibha Singh, reached Ayodhya to attend the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple.

Another Congress MLA from the state Sudhir Sharma also reached Ayodhya for the ceremony.

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress chief Banerjee embarked on a symbolic journey of religious harmony, while leading an all-faith rally that included visits to diverse places of worship, such as a temple, mosque, church, and gurdwara, aligning with the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya earlier in the day.

Accompanied by religious leaders from various faiths and key party members, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo initiated the 'Sanghati March' from Hazra More in Kolkata.

Prior to commencing the rally, Banerjee commenced the day by offering prayers at the iconic Kalighat temple in south Kolkata, seeking blessings from Goddess Kali.

Ahead of the Ram temple consecration ceremony, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the Lord resides in the hearts of those who respect customs, ethics and decorum.

He also posted on X a short animated video showing Lord Ram arriving in Ayodhya with Laxman and Goddess Sita.

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor posted a picture of the consecrated Ram Lalla idol and wrote in Hindi, "Siyawar Ramchandra Ki Jay".

Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said in a post in Hindi, 'Today is a historic moment for all the people of the country, after a long wait of centuries, Lord Shri Ram is going to sit in his home Ayodhya.

'This is the victory of our religion, values, and culture. This is the victory of centuries of struggle of the saints and the unwavering patience of the people of this country 'that justice will be done'.'

'I wish that soon my family and I will reach Ayodhya Dham and have darshan of Lord Shri Ram. Lord Shri Ram belongs to everyone and we all should imbibe the thoughts of Lord Shri Ram for the progress of this nation,' she said.

Top Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury had earlier 'respectfully declined' the invitation to attend the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, with the party accusing the BJP of making it into a 'political project' for electoral gains.

While West Bengal CM Banerjee had alleged that the BJP was indulging in a 'gimmick' through the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, Communist Party of India-Marxist general secretary Sitaram Yechury had also declined an invitation to the ceremony, with the Left party saying religion is a personal choice and should not be converted into an instrument of political gain.

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar had said that he would visit Ayodhya to offer prayers to Lord Ram after the completion of the temple construction there.
A new landmark of India -- both structural and spiritual -- rises on Ayodhya's horizon on Monday as a new-age architectural marvel of elegant sandstones, diligently carved by craftspeople with dedication and devotion to Lord Ram.

All photographs: @ShriRamTeerth on X

The majestic Ram temple in Ayodhya is a sprawling structure, built by overcoming engineering challenges and with due sensitivity to nature.

Champat Rai, general secretary of the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, said the temple's construction is the result of 'collective wisdom' of 'some of the best brains in the country'.

No iron or steel has been used in the construction of the grand structure. Stones have been sourced from Rajasthan's Bansi Paharpur area.

Rai said, "The entire temple superstructure will eventually be three storeys -- G+2."

Visitors will climb 32 steps from the eastern side to reach the main temple.

The temple complex, built in the traditional Nagara style, will be 380 feet long from the east to the west, 250 feet wide and 161 feet high.

Each floor of the temple will be 20 feet high and have a total 392 pillars and 44 gates.

During the excavation work, it was found that the ground was unsuitable for laying the foundation stone, a challenge that engineers overcame by creating an 'artificial foundation' over which the superstructure sits.

Images of Lord Hanuman, other deities, peacocks and flower patterns have been carved onto the stones, lending the structure a divine look.

The temple complex has been decked with flowers for the consecration ceremony.

More than 3,000 kilogrammes of flowers of over 20 varieties have been used to decorate the grand structure, Sanjay Dhawalikar, head of the floral decoration team, told PTI on Sunday.

Around the grand temple is a rectangular periphery called percota, a feature found in temples in south India, but not generally in north India, Rai had earlier said.

The percota will be 14 feet wide and the periphery span 732 metres.

The temple will be nestled within the percota periphery.

Ornate statues of elephants, lions, Lord Hanuman and Garuda were installed at the main entrance leading to the temple earlier this month. These statues have also been made using sandstone brought from the Bansi Paharpur.

"An ancient Shiva temple that exists on the Kuber Tila has also been revitalised," Rai said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Kuber Tila on Monday.

Rai had shared the layout of the temple complex with the media in late December.

A major part of the temple compound will be a green area with hundreds of trees.

The complex itself will be 'atmanirbhar (self reliant)', Rai had said, underlining features such as its own sewage and water treatment plants, a fire brigade post and a dedicated power line.

About 70 per cent of the 70-acre complex will be a green area.

"The green area includes portions which are very dense and, in some segments, even sunlight hardly filters through," Rai had said.

About 600 existing trees are preserved in the green belt.

The complex will have two sewage treatment plants, a water treatment plant and a dedicated electricity line from the power house.

The fire brigade post will be able to source water from an underground reservoir.

The Supreme Court delivered a historic verdict in 2019, settling the temple-mosque dispute that dated back over a century.

The top court backed the construction of the Ram temple at the disputed site. It ruled that an alternative five-acre plot must be found for building a mosque.
China on Monday said it is maintaining close contacts with Pakistan and Iran to 'bridge their differences' after the two nations conducted airstrikes against each other last week.

IMAGE: Chinese vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong. Photograph: Francis Malasig/Pool via Reuters

The foreign ministry's statement came amidst the reported visit of vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to Pakistan on a mediation mission.

China on Thursday last offered to play a 'constructive role' to ease tension between Islamabad and Tehran after Pakistan conducted 'precision military strikes' against what it called 'terrorist hideouts' in Iran's Siestan-Balochistan province that killed nine people in the wee hours on Thursday.

The attack was seen as retaliation to Iranian missile and drone attacks on Tuesday last which targeted two bases of the Sunni Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan's unruly Balochistan province.

The attacks have put China in a piquant situation as Pakistan is an all-weather ally, while Iran is warming up to Beijing in recent years enabling China to expand its influence in the West Asia region. China also imports a considerable amount of oil from Iran.

China maintains close communication with Iran and Pakistan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a media briefing here on Monday when asked by a Pakistani journalist about Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu's phone call with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani on Sunday and the current visit of another Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to Pakistan.

Sun was a former Ambassador to Pakistan and India.

Wang said Iran and Pakistan are friendly neighbours, and both are good friends of China.

"China is committed to upholding regional and international peace and stability, and supports Iran and Pakistan in continuing to bridge differences through dialogue and consultation," Wang said.

The spokesperson said China would like to continue to play a positive and constructive role in improving the relations between Iran and Pakistan based on the needs of the two countries.
A Chinese research vessel is heading to Maldives, Reuters reported, citing an Indian military official and an independent researcher.

Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The timing coincides with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's recent state visit to China, aimed at strengthening ties.

This development raises concerns in New Delhi, as India has previously viewed the presence of such vessels near its shores, including in Sri Lanka in 2022, as problematic.

These vessels are not military ships officially.

However, it will spark concerns for India and others about the military use of their research.

Relations between India and the Maldives have strained since President Muizzu took office in November, shifting the government's focus towards China and requesting the withdrawal of nearly 80 Indian troops stationed in the Maldives, according to Reuters report.

The Chinese vessel is heading to Male, according to post shared by open source intelligence researcher Damien Symon on social media platform X.

Damien Symon said Xiang Yang Hong 03 "is entering the Indian Ocean Region, displaying its destination as Male, the vessel is expected to run an ocean survey operation in the Indian Ocean region raising concern in #India".

An Indian military official has confirmed Symon's finding and said they are monitoring its movement, Reuters reported. Previously, India has flagged similar visits by other Chinese research vessels with its neighbour Sri Lanka, which has not permitted China to dock such vessels on its ports since 2022.

This comes as India and the Maldives on January 14 "agreed to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel" from the island nation, according to the Maldives' Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On January 14, India and Maldives held a core group meeting. During the meeting, both sides deliberated on finding a "mutually workable solution" to ensure the "continued operation" of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and Medvec services, the ministry of external affairs said.

The MEA announced that the next meeting will be held in the national capital.

During the core group meeting, both nations delved "on several aspects of the bilateral relationship," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly briefing on January 18 while sharing insights on the deliberations that took place in the meeting.

"We mentioned that both sides held discussions on finding a mutually workable solution to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and Medvec services to the people of the Maldives," he also said.

"The next meeting is to be held in India to take discussions forward. So that is where the situation as far as the Maldives is concerned," Jaiswal added.

When asked if India received a formal request from Maldives to withdraw the Indian military, Jaiswal said, "Whatever's discussed was put out in the press release. That is where the situation actually stands. It is an ongoing process. Both sides held discussions on finding mutually workable solutions...This is an ongoing discussion, so things will go forward or things will be discussed in the next meeting of the core group subsequently soon."

Recently, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed travelled to China for a state visit.

Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, Mohamed Muizzu announced that agreements to assist the Maldives in expanding agricultural growth to cater to food security were signed with the Chinese government.

The agreements were signed following the official talks between China and Maldives during Muizzu's state visit to China.

The two nations exchanged 20 key agreements at the signing ceremony.

Speaking on the agreements signed between the two nations, Muizzu stated that deliberations were conducted to initiate a specific agricultural scheme at Uthuru Thila Falhu, the Maldives President's Office said in a press release.

He stressed that the envisioned project will guarantee the cultivation of the most frequently used agricultural commodities, sufficient for a minimum population of 200,000 people.
Hymns and songs about Lord Ram reverberated in temples, special prayers were held, processions taken out, rangolis made and bhandara events were held Monday as the country soaked in religious fervour on the occasion of the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

IMAGE: Gathering at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on the occasion of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, in Ayodhya, January 22, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

To coincide with the historic day, three babies were delivered by caesarean operation at a hospital in Madhya Pradesh's Indore, a 42-year-old woman in Maharashtra's Thane city had a muhurat delivery while a Muslim woman in Uttar Pradesh's Firozabad gave birth to a boy and named him Ram Rahim to signify Hindu-Muslim unity.

Several states declared a holiday for schools, while government offices, other establishments and public sector banks remained closed for half a day.

Some states declared a 'dry day' and asked shops selling non-vegetarian food items to remain closed till evening.

Since morning, people flocked temples that were bedecked with flowers, lamps, flags and posters. In the evening, there was a Diwali-like atmosphere as diyas were lit outside homes, shops and business establishments.

In Kerala, rituals at the Triprayar Sree Ramaswamy temple in Thrissur district were performed from early morning.

Situated on the bank of the Karuvannur or Theevra river, it is dedicated to Lord Ram.

The temple is renowned for the Nalambalam yatra -- a pilgrimage to the abodes of Lord Ram and his brothers Bharat, Lakshman and Shatrughan -- and worshipping at all these temples on a single day in the Malayalam month of Karkidakam is considered auspicious, drawing many devotees.

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan offered prayers at the Ramadevi Temple in Vazhuthacaud in the state capital.

IMAGE: Devotees gather to offer prayers at Mahavir Ram Mandir on the occasion of Ram Mandir 'pran pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya, in Ranchi. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Sree Ramaswamy Temple at Ramapuram in Kottayam is also one of four temples where the deities are the four sons of King Dasaratha of Ramayana.

Saffron festoons, flags with the images of Ram, Hanuman, Sita and Lakshman and posters welcoming the arrival of Ram to his birth place dotted several nook and corner in Karnataka. There was a huge turnout of devotees at Ram and Hanuman temples, besides Lord Venkateshwara temples since morning.

Special prayers were held in Bengaluru at Ramanjaneya Gudda temple, Pattabhirama Swamy Temple, Ram temple in Rajajinagar and Ramadevara Devasthana at Malleswaram and Ram temple in Basavanagudi.

IMAGE: A vendor writes 'Jai Sri Ram' on milk in Jalandhar. Photograph: ANI Photo

Prayers were also performed at several temples in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar, and the Hanuman temple on the banks of Jhelum river in Amirakadal area of the city.

A havan was organised at the Sun temple at Mattan in Anantnag district to celebrate the consecration ceremony as the devotees prayed for return of complete normalcy in Kashmir.

Spiritual fever gripped Jharkhand with special prayers organised in more than 51,000 temples across the state.

A massive rangoli of Lord Ram measuring 18,500 sqft was inaugurated by Union Tribal Affairs and Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on the premises of Sri Laxmi Narayan Temple at Cable Town in Golmuri in Jamshedpur.

IMAGE: Devotees pray at Shankaracharya Temple, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Photograph: ANI Photo

Artist Vivek Mishra took nearly two weeks to make the rangoli using over three tonnes of colours.

A huge 3D rangoli featuring Ram Lalla and the Ram Mandir was made by a group of students of Allahabad University and was unveiled in Magh Mela area in Prayagraj

Women devotees in neighbouring Bihar sang 'kirtan' (devotional songs) at the Hanuman Mandir in Priyadarshi Nagar on Bailey Road in Patna since early morning while a procession was taken out from Sri Krishna Pranami Temple took with people carrying kalash and the Ramayana on their heads.

A replica of the Ayodhya temple has been displayed near Dak Bunglow Chowk in Patna where Sri Ramnavami Shobhayatra Abhinandan Samiti.

In the evening, tableaux of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Hanuman and others were taken out.

IMAGE: People celebrate in New Delhi. Photograph: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters

All major intersections of Mathura, home to the Krishna Janmasthan Temple, were decorated and bhandara set up in many parts of the city. At the Radha-Krishna mandir inside the temple complex, the idols were given the appearance of Lord Ram and Sita.

In West Bengal, a grand procession featuring a tableau depicting Lord Ram offering obeisance to Goddess Durga was taken out from Baikuntha Nath Temple near Ganesh Talkies in Kolkata and it culminated at the over 80-year-old Ram temple on Chittaranjan Avenue.

The procession with placards and flags having images of Lord Ram was led by BJP leaders of the state and Chou performers and a large number of women draped in yellow and red saris accompanied it.

Special prayers were organised in various places in Assam and people burst crackers as the consecration ceremony streamed live on various platforms.

IMAGE: Priests and devotees hold wicks as they perform the 'aarti' ritual at a temple in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Photograph: Amit Dave/Reuters

The state government declared a half-day holiday while schools, colleges and universities remained closed for the day.

A 'dry day' was also declared and shops selling non-vegetarian food items remained closed till 4 pm.

In shakipeeth Kamakhya temple atop Nilachal hill in Guwahati, special prayers and yajna were organised.

Prayers and festivities were also organised in Batadrawa, the birthplace of Vaishnavite saint and social reformer Srimanta Sankardev.

Arunachal Pradesh also soaked in religious fervour. In capital Itanagar, markets were closed voluntarily and a large number of private schools also declared a holiday.

LED screens were put up at various places and the ceremony at Ayodhya was live-streamed.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav offered prayers at the temple in Orchha, which is also called as Chhoti Ayodhya, in Niwari district.

Devotees believe that Lord Ram stays at Orchha during the day and goes to Ayodhya in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh at night.

IMAGE: A transgender named Parveen along with others during the celebrations, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Photograph: ANI Photo

In the morning, 'prabhat pheris' (processions) were taken out in localities of various districts where men, women and children dressed in colourful attires and holding saffron flags sang devotional songs in praise of Lord Ram amid the beating of drums.

Soon after the consecration ceremony, devotees burst firecrackers across the state to celebrate the pran pratishtha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya.

In Delhi, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party organised a series of events -- from shobha yatras to bhandaras, 'Sundar Kand' recitals to aartis -- across the 70 assembly constituencies to mark the consecration ceremony.

A three-day Ramlila event at ITO's Pearey Lal Bhawan will also culminate in the evening.

Religious events were organised across Rajasthan with bhajan, kirtan and Ramayan recitation performed in temples in many places. Processions were also taken out at different places, including Jaipur.

In the state's Jaisalmer district, Border Security Force soldiers recited Ramayana at Tanot Mata Temple located on the India-Pakistan border.

In Himachal Pradesh, an 'Akhand Ramayan' recital was organised at a temple devoted to Lord Ram in Shimla.

Immersed in devotion, people in Haryana and Punjab also thronged temples, organised processions and community feasts.
From the grounds of the Ram Janmabhoomi, the Rampath, Rajesh Karkera/Rediff.com captures scenes from the celebrations.

IMAGE: Students from Ayodhya perform Awadhi folk dance on Rampath.

IMAGE: A different folk dance from Awadh, the Badhawa, which is performed at auspicious ceremonies.

IMAGE: Students dancing the Badhawa.

IMAGE: Visitors throng around the performers with their cell phones and the performers gracefully posed for all.

IMAGE: The teacher of this dance form: Sangeeta Ahuja

IMAGE: Men too adorned the platforms along Rampath, the avenue leading to the temple gates.

IMAGE: This instrument with antlers tied to it is called the Singhada informs the performer, who hails from Sonbhadra.

IMAGE: Another drummer poses for the cameras.

IMAGE: Performers from Uttarakhand. Around 200 artistes showcase the traditions of the country.

IMAGE: Some even dressed as peacocks.

IMAGE: And it's not just the performers who are being clicked.

IMAGE: The visitors are also captured by the performers on their camera phones.

IMAGE: And as the locals and visitors wait patiently to get a glimpse of the visiting VVIPs...

IMAGE: Uttar Pradesh police personnel keeps a watchful eye from the rooftops.

IMAGE: The UP police and Rapid Action Force provide the security cordon around the temple.

IMAGE: Anti Terrorism Squad personnel too are in full force.

IMAGE: To ensure that everyone is safe.
The Bharatiya Janata Party vs ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam battle over live telecast of the Ayodhya Ram temple consecration in Tamil Nadu shrines reached the Supreme Court on Monday, with the apex court asking the authorities to act in accordance with the law and not based on any oral instructions.

IMAGE: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman offers prayers at Eeri Katha Ram Temple in Madhuranthak on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

In the Madras high court, the state government submitted no permission was needed for related functions in private enclosures.

While the HC held bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the social equilibrium, this was cited by Chief Minister MK Stalin as the court's 'censure' of saffron party people.

A war of words over 'ban' on live telecast and conducting other events like bhajans and Annadhanam broke between the BJP leaders and Governor RN Ravi on the one side and Chief Minister Stalin and Hindu religious and charitable endowments department minister PK Sekar Babu on the other side.

Governor Ravi alleged that priests and staff of a Shri Ram temple in Chennai, under the control of the state government, faced 'repression' while the entire country celebrated the pran pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

The CM slammed the Governor for his 'repression' remark and the BJP as well for 'Ram temple politics.'

After the intervention of courts, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai, witnessed on large TV screens in temples, the Ayodhya Shri Ram mandir pran pratishtha.

A Supreme Court bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, while hearing a plea seeking quashing of an "oral order" dated January 20 banning live telecast of the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya in temples across Tamil Nadu, said no one is bound to abide by the oral orders.

Both Sitharaman and Annamalai had alleged on Sunday that public screening of Ayodhya event and related programmes like Bhajan was barred by authorities in the state.

The saffron party alleged the DMK regime is 'anti-Hindu' and people would teach a fitting lesson to the ruling party in the Lok Sabha polls.

Annamalai, speaking to reporters in Chennai after watching the event live in Sri Venugopalaswamy temple at downtown Gopalpuram said the ruling DMK regime created a situation for the BJP to pursue legal struggle to ensure performance of special pujas, other events and public screening of the Ayodhya ceremony.

The Venugopalaswamy shrine is located next to the residence of late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi.

Annamalai said that only after legal battles in the Madras High Court and in the Supreme Court, people were able to conduct pujas, bhajans and distribute 'Annadhanam' and witness the Pran Pratishtha event in private places, privately run temples and in shrines under the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department's ambit.

Nirmala Sitharaman said the DMK regime did not change its stand till the last minute and she and others continued to receive message of travails faced by the people who tried to mark the Ayodhya ceremony by holding celebratory events.

She thanked the Madras high court and the Supreme Court for their directives.

Only after the courts orders, they were able to put up an LED screen and witness the ceremony at the Kancheepuram Kamakshi temple run by the Kanchi Sankara Math, she said adding the courts 'established the right' of Hindus.

Sitharaman asserted that if attempts to 'usurp' rights of Hindus were made, legal measures would be pursued and 'we don't pelt stones.'

The temple town of Kancheepuram is the home town of DMK founder and Dravidian icon CN Annadurai (1909-1969).

Chief Minister Stalin said those who sought nod for bhajan in Kancheepuram Kamakshi temple had mentioned that they would not hold any live telecast and this information was concealed by Sitharaman. No person in the BJP, right from Delhi to Tamil Nadu is an exception to spreading rumours, he alleged.

The CM said Governor Ravi's accusation of 'repression' demonstrated 'malice,' which showed that those who got high offices due to the BJP functioned as "rumour spreading WhatsApp Universities."

When the priests of the temple have dismissed Ravi's allegation, "what could be the reason for Governor's accusation other than politics? he asked.

He hit out at the Govenror for "searching the BJP's Ayodhya Ram temple politics in the peaceful Kothandaramar temple."

Ravi's Chennai temple visit was an act of deception, he alleged.

Stalin, also the president of ruling DMK said the Tamil Nadu people will worship Perumal (Lord Vishnu) and at the same time hail Periyar's ideology (of social justice) and also respect people belonging to other religions. He asked DMK workers to focus on defeating 'communal' forces in the Lok Sabha polls and take forward Dravidian ideology across the nation.

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister PK Sekar Babu slammed attempts towards 'mixing' spiritualism with politics.

Sitharaman attempted to do politics of spiritualism in Tamil Nadu, he alleged.

Annamalai underlined that legal struggle became a 'compulsion,' and alleged the 'DMK government is against the people's faith.'

The happenings over the past three days has reinforced again that 'the DMK regime is against the Hindu people,' and people will teach a lesson to the ruling party in the Lok Sabha polls scheduled to be held in April-May.

While the HR and CE 'orally' prohibited events and police stopped such celebratory events through written orders, as many as 21 orders in writing were attached to the petition filed by the BJP in the Supreme Court.

The Madras high court order pointed out that no police permission was needed for events in private places and intimation was suffice in the case of HR and CE managed temples, the BJP leader said.

These two court verdicts would show the extent to which the DMK regime tried in an 'autocratic' manner to scuttle the events to mark the Ayodhya ceremony, he said.

He and others from his party witnessed the Ayodhya ceremony at the Gopalapuram temple based on invitation from the temple trustee.

By barring events, the DMK government has created an 'upsurge' (of devotion) in Tamil Nadu, he said.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday said 13 persons were detained for an alleged assault on a group of persons taking out a vehicle rally in Mira Bhayander area adjoining Mumbai on the eve of the Ram Temple idol consecration in Ayodhya.

IMAGE: A pro-Ram Temple rally in New Delhi. Image used only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

The clash between members of two communities took place during a vehicle rally in Naya Nagar area at around 10.30pm on Sunday in which 10-12 participants in three cars and an equal number of vehicles were shouting slogans praising Lord Ram, a police official said.

However, when some of them burst firecrackers, a group of people came out of their houses and thrashed those taking part in the rally with sticks and also attacked their vehicles, he said.

"The police intervened quickly and the attackers were dispersed. The area saw heavy police deployment to maintain law and order and to prevent any further flare-up. A company of the Riot Control Police (RCP) is also at the site," the official said.

A first information report (FIR) was registered at Naya Nagar police against the attackers under Indian Penal Code section 307 (attempt to murder) and other offences, he added.

In a social media post on Monday, Fadnavis said, "I have taken all the details from the local police yesterday itself as I was in touch with the police commissioner till 3.30 am. I have given orders to take strict action against the miscreants."

"So far, 13 accused persons have been detained. The process of identifying more people who were involved in it with the help of CCTV footage is going on. Anyone trying to disrupt law and order in the state will not be tolerated," Fadnavis added.

A video of the incident has gone viral on social media.

Meanwhile MLA Pratap Sarnaik of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena met Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar (MBVV) police commissioner Madhukar Pandey on Monday and sought the setting up of a special investigation team (SIT).

Sarnaik said the Shiv Sena would hold a protest on January 25 if those involved in the attack on the processionists are not arrested immediately.
Hoping for an 'auspicious' start for their newborns, many couples had muhurat deliveries, planned in consultation with doctors, in hospitals on Monday coinciding with the Ram Lalla idol consecration in Ayodhya.

IMAGE: Ram Janmaboomi Temple is decked up for its 'pran pratishtha' ceremony, in Ayodhya, January 22, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

While 'Ram' and 'Sita' were the preferred names for many, a baby boy born to a Muslim family in the district hospital in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, was named Ram Rahim by his grandmother.

Dr Naveen Jain, in-charge of the district women's hospital, said that the woman, Farzana, gave birth to a baby boy and "the child's grandmother Husna Banu has named him Ram Rahim" saying she wanted to give a "message of Hindu-Muslim unity".

JSS Super Speciality Hospital run by the 'Shri Siddeshwar Loka Kalyana Charitable Trust in Karnataka's Vijayapura had special requests from over 50 pregnant women to align their delivery dates for January 22 and has conducted over 20 deliveries on Monday.

"We had special requests from over 50 pregnant women to align their delivery dates for January 22... since it is Lord Ram's day," Leelavati CA, head HR, told PTI.

"Since, there were several requests, after looking at the medical condition of the expecting mothers and multiple scanning, we could schedule the delivery of over 20 pregnant women for January 22.

"Today (Monday) alone, we have carried out delivery of more than 20 women so far and still operation threatres are full and scanning is still being carried out to schedule the next line of deliveries," the hospital official said.

Ashwini Bagli, 21, whose husband is a bank employee, is among those who had their delivery planned for Monday.

"It's an auspicious day and our family wanted to get the delivery done on a historic day when Lord Ram is back in Ayodhya. I gave birth to a baby girl on this auspicious day and so, we are planning to name our baby Sita," she said.

The hospital had announced free delivery of newborns at its facility from January 18 to January 22 and carried out over 100 deliveries during the specified period, according to the hospital administration.

It also organised a "cradle ceremony" on January 22 of which three newborns - two baby boys and a baby girl -- were a part as "Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman".

A 42-year-old woman delivered a baby boy at Male Hospital in Maharashtra's Thane city after doctors agreed to her request for a delivery on January 22 though she was due on January 23.

Samrudhi Bamane, who works in the IT sector, had requested that her delivery be advanced by a day so as to coincide with the auspicious occasion, Dr Chandrakant Barure of Male Hospital in Thane told PTI.

The baby was born at 12.30 pm at the hospital, located in Naupada area of Thane, the doctor said. The mother and the baby are doing well, he added.

Many expectant parents nationwide have sought muhurat deliveries' to coincide with the consecration of Ram temple at Ayodhya.

There were also several parents like 30-year-old Boramma who had a natural childbirth and felt it was their good luck.

"My husband is a farmer and we did not have enough money to get my delivery scheduled for January 22 .. I felt like even Lord Ram wanted me to deliver my baby on this auspicious day," she said hours after delivering her baby at JSS Super Speciality Hospital.

"Being a devotee of Ram, we have decided to name our newborn as Shri Ram. I feel blessed," she said.

Seema Dwivedi, acting in-charge of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, said as many as 25 babies were delivered here on Monday.

Talking to PTI over the phone, Dwivedi said that several expectant mothers had requested her a Caesarean section on January 22.

Out of the 25 infants, 10 were girls while the rest were boys and all were normal and healthy, she said, adding they were a mix of natural births and planned deliveries.

Dwivedi said that Bharti Mishra, who delivered a boy, has christened the child Ram, believing that it will have a positive impact on the baby's personality.

The boys were given other names of Lord Ram also like Raghav, Raghvendra, Raghu and Ramendra, while many girls have been named Janaki and Sita.

A girl was born to couple Sanjana and Lokesh through a caesarean delivery at Depalpur Civil Hospital in Indore, Dr Sushma Boriwal said.

"I was in touch with the doctors and medical staff of the hospital to have the baby delivered on January 22 but was told it had not completed its term. However, Sanjana complained of pain at around 11 am, after which the operation was performed," Lokesh told PTI.

Both the mother and child are in good health, he said.

At least 47 babies were delivered in different hospitals in three districts of Madhya Pradesh on Monday, health officials said.

While 33 babies were born in three hospitals in Indore, the figure was 13 for Damoh and one for Bhopal, they said.

In Indore's state-run PC Sethi hospital, 18 babies, comprising nine girls and as many boys, were born on Monday, Dr Veerendra Rajgir told PTI.

While 17 were normal deliveries, one was a caesarean procedure, Rajgir added

Eleven infants were born through normal deliveries, while three were delivered by caesarean operation at the government-run MTH Hospital in Indore, senior gynaecologist Dr Sumitra Yadav told PTI.

The infants - eight girls and six boys - are doing well, she added.
A procession taken out in Thane district on the occasion of the Ram temple idol consecration in Ayodhya was pelted with stones by miscreants on Monday evening, police officials said, in the second incident of violence in the district in less than 24 hours.

IMAGE: A group of youngsters chant slogans as they celebrate Ayodhya Ram Lalla's 'pran pratishtha' ceremony, at Marine Drive in Mumbai, January 22, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

An unspecified number of processionists and policemen providing security to the march were injured in the stone attack in the Mira Road area, they said, hours after a clash broke out between members of two communities during a vehicle rally in Thane district at around 10:30 pm on Sunday.

An official at the Mira Bhayandar-Vasai Virar police said the stone pelting was reported from Naya Nagar police station limits, where the group clash took place during a rally comprising cars and other vehicles and taken out on the eve of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya.

The trigger for the stone pelting incident was not yet known, he said, adding further details were awaited.

The police were maintaining a strict vigil after Sunday's clash in the Naya Nagar area, located on Mumbai's outskirts, said the official.

MBVV additional police commissioner Sreekanth Phatak asked the people of the township to maintain peace and said action was being taken against those involved in the incidents.

He asked people not to believe in rumours and warned against putting up social media posts that are provocative or could disrupt peace by creating feuds among communities.

The CCTV footage was being checked to nab the culprits, he said, adding that police rushed to the site of Sunday's clash immediately and brought the situation under control.

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio, said 13 persons were held in connection with the group clash.

A number of relatives of these 13 persons protested in front of Naya Nagar police station and Congress leader Muzaffar Hussain was seen soothing frayed tempers.

He told the kin of the arrested persons that the police were doing their job and action would be taken only against those found to have taken part in the clash.

In Panvel, Shiv Sena leader Pratamesh Soman, former corporator Mukid Kazi and social worker Iqbal Kazi told reporters some incidents had taken place but the situation was peaceful at the moment.

Hindus and Muslims have lived in the town cordially for ages, they said, adding that the police must take action against those posting rumours and provocative messages on social media.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The Azerbaijani military personnel will vote in the upcoming presidential election on February 7 at designated polling stations within military units and institutions of the Defense Ministry, Trend reports, referring to the Defense Ministry's statement to the Central Election Commission (CEC).

According to the information, all polling stations, which will operate in military units and institutions of the Ministry of Defense, take necessary measures to ensure transparency of the voting process.

Considering that some servicemen will vote for the first time, educational activities are being held in military units.

All the necessary conditions will be ensured at all polling stations throughout the country to ensure the voting rights of the personnel in the electoral process.

The Ministry noted that portable ballot boxes will be used in divisions carrying out combat duty in mountainous areas with difficult terrain to ensure the participation of voters in the upcoming election.

On December 7, 2023, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on holding an extraordinary presidential election in the country on February 7, 2024.



The Central Election Commission of Azerbaijan (CEC) on Dec. 19 approved the candidacy of Ilham Aliyev, nominated by the ruling New Azerbaijan Party (YAP), for participation in the extraordinary presidential election.



Azerbaijan has registered 7 candidates to run in the extraordinary presidential election.

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The Supreme Court on Monday asked the authorities in Tamil Nadu to act in accordance with the law and not based on any oral instructions on "banning" special prayers and live telecast of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in all temples across the state.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs 'Dandavat Pranam' at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya. Photograph: ANI

A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, while hearing a plea seeking quashing of an "oral order" dated January 20 banning live telecast of the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya in temples across Tamil Nadu, said no one is bound to abide with the oral orders.

The bench took on record the statement of senior advocate Amit Anand Tiwari for Tamil Nadu that there are no restrictions on 'puja archana' in temples or live telecast of consecration ceremony at Ayodhya.

He said the plea is "politically motivated".

In its order, the bench said, "We believe and trust that the authorities will act in accordance with law and not on the basis of any oral instructions, which, as stated on behalf of respondent nos. 2 to 4 (TN government), have not been issued".

The bench asked the authorities to put on record the reasons and maintain the data of applications which has been allowed for 'puja archana' and live telecast of consecration ceremony in temples and those which have been disallowed.

"The authorities, while examining any application for permission for procession etc., shall proceed in accordance with the law and shall record reasons, if any, for rejecting the application. The authorities will maintain data regarding the applications received and the reasons given for allowing or disallowing such applications. While examining such applications, the authorities will keep the relevant parameters, as laid down by law and judgments of the Courts, in mind," the bench directed.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said, "I am shocked at this state of affairs."

He said, "Let a strong message go from the highest judiciary of the country to the state government that the Constitution of India still governs the nation and it applies to the state of Tamil Nadu also."

He added that nobody can be prevented from performing religious rituals.

The bench termed the reason given by Tamil Nadu Police officials that members of other communities reside in vicinity as a ground for denying permission as "prima facie not justified and acceptable."

It directed, "Respondent nos. 2 to 4 will also examine the reasons given for rejection of the prayers made vide document enclosed at pages 20-22 (of the petition)."

Justice Khanna, after dictating the order, said, "We have asked the authorities to pass a speaking order giving reasons for rejection of application for permission. Let the reasons come on record. We are living in a society where there are homogenous communities. You cannot prevent religious activities only on the ground that community A or community B is living in a particular area. If there is any law and order situation, the application may be rejected. But not this way."

The bench told Tiwari, "Now, we will know exactly how many applications you have allowed, and how many have been rejected. If the applications are rejected on the ground that other communities reside in the vicinity then, you will be in trouble."

Justice Datta said that if orders, banning religious activities in areas inhabited primarily by members of other faith, were to be implemented, then religious minority communities would never be allowed to hold a prayer meeting.

He asked Tiwari to peruse the order annexed in the petition, and said, "The reason provided in this order is that Hindus are in the minority here, and if they are allowed to hold prayer meetings, that will cause problems in the society. Is this a reason?"

Tiwari tried to explain, saying it was related to the law and order situation.

Justice Datta said, "You regulate it then. You have the powers to regulate these processions by passing orders but you can't reject the application for permissions like this."

The bench sought response of the Tamil Nadu government on the plea, and listed the matter for hearing on January 29.

During the hearing, senior advocate Dama Seshadri Naidu, appearing for the petitioner Vinoj, a Tamil Nadu resident, said police officials are rejecting permissions to hold special prayers and even preventing live telecast of the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya.

He said several representations were made to the authorities but all were rejected on this flimsy ground that other community members reside in the area.

The plea contended that the Tamil Nadu government run by the DMK has banned live telecast of the "pran prathishta" of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all temples across the state.

It was also alleged that the government has also banned all kinds of prayers, and 'annadanam' (poor feeding) 'bhajans' on the occasion.

"Such oral orders are patently illegal, arbitrary and ultra vires the various provisions of the Constitution," the plea said.

However, Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister, P K Sekar Babu had said on Sunday that the HR and CE Department has not imposed any kind of ban for conduct of puja for Lord Ram. Also, there is no bar to distribute 'Annadhanam' and 'Prasadam.' He dismissed the claim as false news with ulterior motives.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Mainly cloudy. A few peeks of sunshine possible. High 43F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. A few flurries are possible. Low 29F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Azerbaijan, one of the main goals of which is to stimulate local production and business, has granted a soft loan to Cooky Chefs LLC, said Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikail Jabbarov on X (Twitter), Trend reports.

"The Entrepreneurship Development Fund has provided Cooky Chefs LLC with a soft loan of 200,000 manat ($117,500) to produce flour products. Such support for small and medium businesses is aimed at increasing their role in the economy," the publication reads.

Meanwhile, the Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Azerbaijan provided 193.8 million manat ($113.8 million) in soft loans to finance 3,276 investment projects.

The total cost of investment projects is 459.9 million manat ($270.2 million), and the volume of loans has increased by almost 33 percent. Thanks to these loans, more than 3,000 new jobs have been created. 46.4 percent of issued credits were directed to the production of agricultural products, 43 percent to the production and processing of industrial products, 5.5 percent to the service sector, and 4.5 percent to tourism development projects. 72 percent of soft loans were directed to regions, and 28 percent to Baku city and the Absheron economic region.

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Editors hope the Taiwan-published book will educate people about the cognitive warfare waged by Communist Party.

Brainwashing the public through mass propaganda campaigns by the Chinese Communist Party and other authoritarian regimes is a global threat, according to political scholars who recently published a new book on the topic.

The book, "Brainwashing in Mao's China and Beyond," takes an in-depth look, through the lenses of political science, sociology and international relations, at the kind of "cognitive warfare" waged by the Communist Party from the Mao era onwards, co-editor Xia Ming told RFA in an interview on Monday.

Xia hopes the book will be a vaccine against the propaganda pumped out by the party as a way to stifle dissent and shore up its grip on power.

Taiwans 23 million inhabitants got a heavy dose of cross-border Chinese propaganda in the run-up to the Jan. 13 general election, co-editor and Chinese-American Cultural Revolution historian Song Yongyi told a recent symposium.

Song said the recent attempts by China to spook Taiwan's voters into complying with their constant negative messaging is just one among many examples showing that brainwashing is still being used, and still poses a threat to global stability.

While Taiwan is governed as a sovereign state under the 1911 Republic of China, whose leaders and officials fled there after losing the civil war to Mao Zedong's communists in 1949, Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping has repeatedly said that Taiwan must be "unified" with China, and refused to rule out the use of military force to annex the island.

The Chinese edition of "Brainwashing in Mao's China and Beyond" is seen in Taiwan in January 2024. (Hsia Hsiao-hwa/RFA)





"Communist regimes haven't been completely destroyed, and some totalitarian regimes have continued to develop in the post-Mao era, like Xi Jinping's regime," Song said, citing Russia under Vladimir Putin and its invasion of Ukraine.

"This is still a global problem today  it's not just a problem in China or Taiwan," he said.

Origin of term

The term "brainwashing" is a direct translation of the Chinese  (xinao  "wash brains") that was first used in English by U.S. journalist Edward Hunter in 1950 to describe how the Chinese government got people to cooperate with them during the Korean War.

Later research found similar processes at work in Nazi Germany, and among criminal organizations including human traffickers.

"Among the tactics used by the Chinese Communist Party to [try to] intervene in Taiwan's election was the claim that, if Taiwan allows the Democratic Progressive Party to come to power, there will be immediate war," said Song.

"The Chinese Communist Party has been spreading such pessimism for a long time, telling Taiwan it can't win," he said. "[The message is] if we want to defeat you, we can."

"Even some [political] leaders in Taiwan have accepted this brainwashing," Song said.

Xia Ming, co-editor of "Brainwashing" and professor of political science at New York's City University, says the Chinese Communist Party has historically employed brainwashing as a way to stifle dissent and shore up its grip on power. (Hsia Hsiao-hwa/RFA)





Taiwan's Central Election Commission last week complained to TikTok about 105 videos posted to the platform it said were deepfakes targeting candidates in the Jan. 13 election. By Monday, TikTok had removed more than half of them.

The Chinese-owned video-sharing platform has been repeatedly described by Taiwan officials and national security personnel as a "threat to national security," accusing it of peddling "digital opium" to the island's young people.

The book includes chapters from Pei Yiran on the Yan'an Rectification Movement, Ding Shu on the 1958 "Confess to the Party" movement, Wu Guoguang on brainwashing, propaganda and "cognitive warfare," and from Yu Maochun on the impact of Chinese Communist Party propaganda on the international community.

There are also contributions on its use in prisons, textbooks, literature and movies, with links to similar practices under Kim Jong-un and by fascist regimes.

Suspicion of the U.S.

Suspicion of the United States is a key theme of propaganda and infowars originating in Beijing, Xia said, citing a chapter contributed by Li You-tan and Yang Xiujing.

Such themes have previously been used to target previous elections in Taiwan and undermine its democracy, while belittling the United States, he told RFA in an interview on Monday.

"When [scholars in] Western countries study brainwashing, they actually help each of us to resist brainwashing  to protect the independence of our thoughts."

"The Chinese Communist Party does the opposite," Xia said. "They take the best and worst things in the world and throw them into the vat, to use against its people."

Li Youtan (right), one of the authors of "Brainwashing" and a professor at Taiwan's National Chengchi University, speaks at the Jan. 20, 2024 symposium. (Hsia Hsiao-hwa/RFA)





"We need medicines to deal with this [thought-]virus," he said. "This book hopes to contribute by offering everyone a vaccine against it."

Li You-tan, professor at Taiwan's National Chengchi University, said one example of Chinese government brainwashing is referring to aspirations to independence as "poison."

"According to the manipulative language of the Chinese Communist Party, independence is the same as poison," Li said. "This is a form of brainwashing."

"The manipulation here is aimed at 1.4 billion [Chinese] people, because Taiwan already is independent."

Same family

Another buzzword used by Beijing to bolster its territorial claims is the description of Taiwanese and Chinese people as coming from the same "race" or "family," suggesting that anyone who works against "unification" is betraying their ancestors, Huang Ching-Lung of the Taipei Trust in Democracy Association told the symposium.

"Some people really take this on board," Huang said, citing comments by former Kuomintang president Ma Ying-jeou during a trip to mainland China last year.

Political YouTuber Mr. Shen said Chinese people have been brainwashed since childhood, including through the use of textbooks during compulsory education.

The symposium for the launch of Brainwashing is held in Taipei, Jan. 20, 2024. (Hsia Hsiao-hwa/RFA)





"A lot of people criticize those of us who oppose he Communist Party by saying we have been brainwashed by Western forces and Western media," Shen said. "But that completely distorts the definition of brainwashing."

"There is one prerequisite for brainwashing, and it is this: it must prevent you from getting hold of any other information," he said. "But in the West, the information we see is diverse and conflicting, so whether you believe what the left or the right says becomes a matter of personal choice."

Shen said he managed to rid himself of his early brainwashing, which included the belief that Taiwan could never be independent, by reading widely from overseas sources.

"When I had received that different information, I digested and analyzed it in my own mind, and formed my own independent judgment," he said. "That's how I avoided being brainwashed."

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
Pyongyang claimed it had conducted the test last week

North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un attends a meeting with Russias President Vladimir Putin at the Vostochny osmodrome in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, Sept. 13, 2023.

North Korea has reiterated its dedication to enhancing its military prowess as South Korea has suggested that Pyongyangs claim about testing underwater nuclear weapons might be exaggerated and fabricated.

There is a widespread dominance of coercion and unilateral actions driven by the logic of power, which severely encroaches upon the sovereignty and survival rights of nations advocating for self-determination and independence, said Kim Son Gyong, North Koreas deputy minister of foreign affairs, as cited by the Norths state-run Korean Central News Agency on Monday.

Speaking at the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda last week, the deputy minister justified Pyongyangs continued pursuit of military advancement, including its nuclear program.

The situation where the sovereignty, autonomy, survival, and development rights of sovereign nations are under severe threat is particularly evident on the Korean Peninsula, said Kim.

As provocations from our adversaries increase, there is a continuous need to build an overwhelmingly strong military preparedness, capable of deterring any form of provocation or action, and being fully and thoroughly prepared.

Such remarks came as North Korea said Friday it had carried out a test of an underwater nuclear weapons system, claiming it was facing severe security threats from the allies.

The Norths Underwater Weapon System Institute tested the Haeil-5-23, its underwater nuclear system involving drones, its Ministry of National Defence claimed. Submarine-launched weapons can be deployed covertly, often evading the allies detection systems, potentially offering Pyongyang a more elusive means of deploying its nuclear weapons.

South Korea on Sunday, however, raised the possibility that the claim might have been exaggerated and fabricated.

There is a possibility that North Koreas claims may have been exaggerated and fabricated, based on our comprehensive analysis up until today, South Koreas Presidential Office said in a statement.

If indeed a test had taken place, it is presumed to have involved some form of torpedo, and the likelihood of it being a nuclear-powered system is highly improbable.

There are no instances of developing a small nuclear reactor suitable for a torpedo with a diameter of less than 1 meter.

Amid the tensions, North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un pledged last week to amend the countrys constitution to declare Seoul as Pyongyangs primary and immutable enemy.

Edited by Taejun Kang and Elaine Chan.
The group says it seized three more towns in the north, with four civilians killed during the battles.

The Kachin army captured 30 junta soldiers in Mansi townships Man Wein Gyi camp in Kachin state on Jan. 21, 2024.

Myanmars Kachin Independence Army and allied Peoples Defense Forces claim they captured 30 junta soldiers during battles in the countrys north, a Kachin army officer told Radio Free Asia on Monday.

The Kachin Independence Army launched the raid on Friday near the Kachin and Shan state border in another attempt to capture Mongmit city, according to the armys information officer Col. Naw Bu.

Some 30 junta soldiers, including a deputy battalion commander, were captured alive along with their weapons, he said. The group also seized a junta camp near Man Wein Gyi village in Kachin states Mansi township when the clashes ended on Sunday.

I received a report from the frontline that 30 junta soldiers, including the deputy battalion commander, had been captured, Col. Naw Bu said. They are currently being held under the international prisoner of war law. It is not yet known what action will be taken against them.

Over 10 junta soldiers were found dead in a clearing after the battle, he said, adding that they are seizing regional military bases in order to regain control over all junta-held areas.

Scores of junta soldiers crossed the border into China on Sunday, Col. Naw Bu added. Roughly 57 of them were sent back through the Muse crossing which borders Yunnan province on Monday, according to reports by local media.

Strategic Captures

Mansi townships Man Wein Gyi camp is a strategic military base that connects Kachin's Bhamo city and northern Shan states Namhkam city, Col. Naw Bu said.

The Kachin Independence Army and joint forces also captured Kachins Mabein city on Sunday morning, located between Mansi and Mongmit townships, he added.

Mabein has also been seized, he told RFA. All armed forces, including the Arakan Army, Peoples Defense Forces, and the All Burma Students Democratic Front united and fought the junta camps.

The junta retaliated with airstrikes, damaging some houses, Col. Naw Bu said, adding that the extent of the damage isnt known at this time.

Y-12 planes dropped more than 60 bombs in Mabein townships Waing Long, Kone Ma Hkan, and Nam Pong Pong villages on Sunday afternoon, locals told RFA today, adding that scores more were dropped around 8 p.m. on Sunday.

More than 4,000 civilians have fled Mabein city and nearby villages since the attack began on Thursday.

Mongmit Battles

Kachin Independence Army coalition forces have also been trying to seize Shan states Mongmit since Thursday, leading to intense fighting until Saturday, residents said. Almost all residents in Mongmit have fled as well, they added.

On Friday night, the junta army retaliated with airstrikes and heavy weapons, destroying the entire Mongmit market, a local who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals told RFA on Saturday.

The citys main market was flattened and turned black. It happened at 6 p.m. Friday. The entire market was burnt. The residents have been allowed to leave Mongmit this morning, he said. Everyone has fled the city. [Can you hear] heavy weapon blasts? The planes are passing over our heads this morning and it is fierce.

Around 150 shops in the market were destroyed by the bombing and only around 200 people out of the citys 10,000 residents have remained, he added.

During Thursday and Fridays battles, four people, including an elderly woman and a middle-aged woman from Mongmit city, were killed. At least ten civilians were injured, locals said.

Junta Infantry Battalion 348, as well as Light Infantry 276 and 223 are all based in Mongmit. As of Monday morning, the fighting has been ongoing for five days, locals said.

The military junta has not released any information regarding the battles in Mansi, Mabein, or Mongmit. Calls to Kachin states junta spokesperson Thant Zin Ko Ko, and Shan states junta spokesperson Khun Thein Maung went unanswered Monday.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn.
The two sides characterized the incident as a misunderstanding over an arms delivery.

Buildings burn in Sam Hpu village in Ho Pong township of southern Shan state after a skirmish between Pa-O National Liberation Army fighters and Myanmar army troops, Jan. 21, 2024.

Clashes broke out Sunday in Myanmars Shan state between the military and an ethnic army signatory of a national cease-fire, leading to the arrest of rebel officers, but both sides were quick to downplay the incident as a misunderstanding.

The fighting demonstrates how fragile treaties between the junta and Myanmars myriad ethnic armies can be in the aftermath of the militarys February 2021 coup detat and its subsequent nationwide offensive to solidify its hold on power.

The incident was sparked when the military carried out an inspection of five Pa-O National Liberation Organization, or PNLO, vehicles laden with arms and ammunition as they entered Ho Pong townships Sam Hpu village, PNLO Patron Col. Khun Okka told RFA Burmese.

The military initiated the attack because troops believed the supplies were being delivered to anti-junta forces, he said, adding that two brief skirmishes took place while senior officials were in talks, and the military arrested three PNLO officers, who were released Monday morning.

Khun Okka said that PNLO fighters believed that the military intended to confiscate the vehicles, so our forces destroyed the military equipment to prevent its seizure by junta troops.

He reiterated that the arms and ammunition were for our armed group and dismissed any suggestion that the PNLO was acting as an arms broker.

Members of Pa-O National Liberation Army are seen in November 2023. (PNLA News & Information Department)

Khun Okka said the incident would have no impact on the PNLOs support for the nationwide cease-fire agreement, or NCA, which it signed along with seven other armed ethnic groups and the national military in 2015.

He said the PNLOs strategies for 2024 include avoiding conflict except in self-defense, refraining from making enemies with any party, seeking public support, protecting civilians, and strengthening its capabilities with arms and ammunition.

The junta confirmed the clashes in a statement issued through its broadcast channel MRTV.

In consideration of peace, security forces managed to stop the fighting after negotiations, in line with the provisions of the NCA, it said. However, people in PNLO uniforms set fire to the vehicles  during the negotiations. Explosions of arms and ammunition on the trucks caused a fire which then spread to Sam Hpu village, destroying 27 houses.

Observers of Myanmars ethnic affairs noted that as NCA signatories outline their stance amid the wider war in Myanmar, they are increasingly coming up against political and military conflicts.

One observer, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, added that many ethnic Pa-Os are taking part in the resistance to the military regime, and suggested that the weekend incident will change their politics and stance on the NCA.

The recent situation will have some impact on the PNLO and I wonder if the PNLO might turn to confrontation, he said. Moreover, the junta is likely to put additional pressure on [the PNLO].

The observer added that as the NCA has not led to a lasting peace, relations between the junta and the signatories have gradually worsened.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
Male students who enrolled in Taliban-run religious schools say that sexual and physical abuse has led some to end their pursuit of an education in Afghanistan.

The students, all of whom were aged 10 to 17 and spoke to RFE/RL's Radio Azadi on condition of anonymity out of fears of repercussion, described numerous instances in which they and fellow classmates were pressured to engage in sexual acts with teachers and subjected to corporal punishments.

The reported cases took place in western and southwestern Afghanistan at Taliban-run madrasahs, part of the network of religious schools that the extremist group has expanded significantly as part of its drive to foster religious education more in keeping with its hard-line Islamist views.

One 16-year-old student, a resident of Farah Province, described being propositioned by a teacher at the madrasah he attends.

"One day at school a Taliban member who teaches there made an inappropriate offer, but I did not accept it," the boy told Radio Azadi, using inexplicit language to describe sexual abuse, a culturally taboo topic in Afghanistan. "When the lessons were over, he bothered me again."

The boy said he reported the incidents to a "qari," a person who has memorized the Koran and serves as a religious authority at the school, to no avail.

"I told the qari that the teacher was doing bad things to me, and the qari told him not to do these things, that he was a teacher," the boy said. "The teacher admitted doing it, but it had no effect. He has continued to do bad things and made sexual requests to numerous students at the school."

Another student in southwestern Afghanistan, a 17-year-old in the 10th grade, gave a similar account of his experience during his six months studying at a Taliban-run madrasah.

"A Taliban member who teaches at the school proposed having a relationship with me and said some other things that I did not accept," the boy said.

After being refused, the teacher swore and issued threats, the boy said, adding that his fellow students have faced similar treatment.

"He also harassed several of my classmates, and one of them left the school," the boy said. "He told me I should not go to school anymore because the same teacher is harassing me."

The boy said the experience has left him "damaged" and unsure of whom he can confide in. "I can't tell my family," he said.

The Taliban has come under widespread criticism for the severe restrictions it has placed on the daily lives of the Afghans since seizing power in August 2021. In its pursuit to impose its extreme interpretation of Islam, the Taliban has restored many of the draconian rules it was infamous for during its first stint in power from 1996 to 2001.

The ban on the education of girls past the sixth grade, and the erasure of women's role in society stand out among the measures the Taliban has taken. But other steps -- including prohibitions on music and idolatry through art, and pressure against students and teachers -- have affected all walks of life regardless of sex.

Since the Taliban returned to power, many educators have left the country, while female teachers have been left at home without work due to restrictions on women's freedom of movement and their ability to teach males.

Meanwhile, the Taliban has steadily worked to replace secular state schools and informal madrasahs with a system of religious schooling. The system does allow for girl students, including those of university age, but critics say it falls far short of the standards of modern education for girls and boys alike and often promotes extremism.

According to a report on Afghanistan issued by the United Nations in February, the Taliban has established 6,836 madrasahs for males and 380 for females and was expected to finalize a standardized religious curriculum in time for the new school year beginning this month.

The recruitment of madrasah teachers is also in full swing, according to the report, following a decree by the Talibans spiritual leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada to have 100,000 new madrasah teachers in place.

In December, Human Rights Watch gave a stinging assessment of the state of education in general, saying that in addition to the obstacles to the education of girls and women, the Taliban had "also inflicted deep harm on boys' education" in Afghanistan.

"Many boys were previously taught by women teachers; the Taliban has prohibited women from teaching boys, depriving women teachers of their jobs and often leaving boys with unqualified replacement male teachers or sometimes no teachers at all," HRW said. "Parents and students said that corporal punishment, which has long been a problem at Afghan schools, has become increasingly common. The curriculum in many schools appears to be under revision to remove important school subjects and promote discrimination."

The rights watchdog said the circumstances had "led many boys to leave school altogether" and "left boys struggling with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression."

Shortly after the Taliban regained power, the United Nations highlighted the dire situation for children in Afghanistan, including exposure to sexual violence and increased risk of students dropping out of school.

Difficulties in ensuring the protection of children are exacerbated, according to the UN, by the Taliban's refusal to consider people below the age of 18 to be children, as is the international standard, instead using the onset of puberty as the basis for adulthood.

Younger madrasah students in western and southwestern Afghanistan below or at the age of puberty said they were not spared physical abuse and sexual harassment from teachers.

One young man who spoke to Radio Azadi said he recently learned that his young brother was being subjected to sexual abuse at a madrasah in western Afghanistan.

The young man said his brother was being assigned extracurricular "homework by a teacher, or to put it bluntly, he was being asked for sex, [the teacher] fondled his hands and feet and kissed him."

As a result, the young man said he told his brother not to go to school anymore.

Fear of sexual harassment and sexual and physical abuse were cited as a common factor leading boys in western and southwestern Afghanistan to give up their studies.

"Some teachers harass our students and make immoral requests," said one 14-year-old boy who also described common methods of corporal punishment at his madrasah. "They strike our faces or beat our hands and feet under the pretext of disciplining us for not learning our lessons properly."

The boy said many students were studying hard in fear of being taken to a special room for punishment, and that "some even drop out of school."

Another student, aged 10, said his teacher separated him and other students from their class to beat the soles of their feet.

Afterward, he told Radio Azadi, he stopped going to class because he was afraid. And upon hearing about the incidents, his and his classmates' parents "did not allow us to go to school."

The Taliban authorities did not respond to requests for comment on the allegations of abuse at madrasahs it has established. And efforts to speak to individuals aware of the situations at madrasahs in other areas of Afghanistan were met by refusals to comment due to fear of reprisals.

A women's rights activist who asked that her name not be published told Radio Azadi that families have no avenue to lodge complaints about the abuse their children encounter at Taliban-run madrasahs because they, too, would face threats.

The activist said that not only had she been made aware of sexual harassment against both girls and boys at Taliban-run madrasahs, but the curriculum also serves to "increase the level of extremism in the country."

Reducing the risks of both threats, she said, would require greater oversight by the Taliban authorities and ideally, she said, a reduction in the number of madrasahs.

Najib Amini, a civil society activist in western Afghanistan, said that for now, the onus falls on families to be aware.

"Children are subjected to sexual abuse in madrasahs established under the Taliban regime," Amini said. "Families have an important and essential role in this regard. If they do not want their children to be abused in schools, if they want their children to get a basic education...then they should not send their children to madrasahs under the control of the Taliban."

Written by Michael Scollon based on reporting by RFE/RLs Radio Azadi
Air strikes and diplomatic sparring between Iran and Pakistan have raised difficult questions for China and its influence in the region amid growing fears the upheaval sweeping across the Middle East could spread.



Since the tit-for-tat strikes on January 16 and 18 against militant and separatist groups, Islamabad and Tehran have signaled they want to de-escalate the situation and that their foreign ministers will hold talks in Pakistan on January 29.



But the attacks have exposed the fine line between peace and conflict in the region and put the spotlight on China, a close partner of both countries, to see if it can use its sway to ramp down tensions and avoid a conflict that would jeopardize Beijing's economic and geopolitical interests in the region.



"For China, the stakes are high and they really can't afford for things to get any worse between Iran and Pakistan," Abdul Basit, an associate research fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told RFE/RL.



China has tens of billions of dollars of investments in Iran and Pakistan and both countries are high-level partners that benefit from Chinese political and economic support.



Following the missile-strike exchange, China's Foreign Ministry called for calm and said it would "play a constructive role in cooling down the situation," without giving details.



Beijing is now expected to step up its engagement to head off another crisis in the region, in what analysts say is yet another test for China's influence after recently hitting its limit with the war in Gaza, shipping attacks in the Red Sea by Iranian-backed Huthi militants, and the growing instability across the Middle East these events have caused.

"We're yet to see anything really concrete where China has stepped in to solve an international crisis," Sari Arho Havren, an associate fellow at London's Royal United Services Institute, told RFE/RL. "[But] China has a reputational image at stake where it's presenting itself as the alternative to the United States, even though assumptions about how powerful it really is in the Middle East are now being scrutinized."



What's Going On Between Iran And Pakistan?



The Iranian strikes in Pakistan were part of a series of similar attacks launched by Iran that also hit targets in Iraq and Syria.



In Pakistan, Tehran said it was targeting the Sunni separatist group Jaish al-Adl with drones and missiles in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan Province. Jaish al-Adl operates mostly in Iran's southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan Province but is also suspected to be in neighboring Pakistan. The group claimed responsibility for a December 15 attack on a police station in southeastern Iran that killed 11 officers.

In response, Islamabad said its military conducted air strikes in Sistan-Baluchistan targeting the Baloch Liberation Front and the Baloch Liberation Army, two separatist groups believed to be hiding in Iran.



The exchange of strikes was followed by Pakistan recalling its ambassador from Iran and blocking Tehran's ambassador to Islamabad from returning to his post.



On January 21, the Counterterrorism Department in Pakistan's southwestern Sindh Province announced it had arrested a suspect in a 2019 assassination attempt on a top Pakistani cleric who is a member of the Zainebiyoun Brigade, a militant group allegedly backed by Iran.



But since the strikes on each other's territory, Iran and Pakistan have cooled their rhetoric and signaled that they intend to de-escalate, echoing sentiment through official statements that the neighbors are "brotherly countries" that should pursue dialogue and cooperation.

Basit says this stems largely from the fact that the countries see themselves spread too thin in dealing with a host of pressing foreign and domestic issues.



Tehran has grappled with a series of attacks across the country, including a January 3 twin bombing that killed more than 90 people, and is engaged across the region directly or through groups that it backed such as Yemen's Huthis and Lebanon's Hizballah.



The tit-for-tat attacks, meanwhile, come as Pakistan is embroiled in an economic crisis and prepares to hold high-stakes elections on February 8, the first since former Prime Minister Imran Khan was removed in a vote of no confidence in April 2021, setting off years of escalating political turmoil.



"Between the economy, elections, and always-present tensions with India that could grow, Pakistan simply can't afford another front," Basit said.



Islamabad and Tehran are now pushing to cool down the situation, though Basit adds that the situation remains tense. "There is peace and calm now, but the animosity is ongoing," he said.



How Much Leverage Does China Have?



Following a week of tensions, China has leverage to push for a diplomatic settlement to the dispute, although experts say Beijing may be reluctant to intervene too publicly.



"China looks to be quite measured here in its response and that raises some questions about where China stands in using its influence," Basit said. "China knows it can influence the situation, but Beijing also usually shies away from situations like this because they worry that if they try and fail, then the West will look at it differently."



Beijing raised expectations in March 2023 it would play a larger political role in the Middle East when it brokered a historic deal between regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia.
When Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker last year, Tehran said the transporter had collided with and damaged an Iranian vessel in the Gulf of Oman.

Now, nearly one year later, Tehran said it will confiscate the cargo of the Advantage Sweet, which was transporting oil from Kuwait to the U.S. state of Texas, in retaliation for crippling American sanctions against the Islamic republic.



The Mizan news agency, which is affiliated with Iran's judiciary, reported on March 6 that a Tehran court had ruled in favor of confiscating the oil, which is valued at around $50 million.



The 55th branch of the Tehran Court of Justice said funds from the sale of the oil will be used to compensate patients suffering from epidermolysis bullosa, a rare skin disease. The court ruled that U.S. sanctions have prevented a Swedish company from selling medicine to Iran that is used to treat the disease and caused Iranian patients severe emotional and physical damage.



EB Home, an Iranian nongovernmental organization representing over 300 epidermolysis bullosa patients, had brought a case against the United States in the Tehran court. In a statement following the court ruling, the NGO described U.S. sanctions as criminal and unilateral.



U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller criticized the ruling and demanded that the tanker be immediately released.



Irans continued harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights and freedoms in the regions vital waterways is a threat to maritime security, regional stability, and the global economy, he said in a press briefing on March 6.

The U.S. military said in January that Iran was holding five ships and over 90 members hostage from vessels it seized in 2023. Most Iranian tanker seizures are carried out by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the elite branch of Irans armed forces.



Iran said it seized the Advantage Sweet in April 2023. The tanker was chartered by U.S. oil giant Chevron and was carrying oil to the U.S. port of Houston, according to ship tracking data.

Irans capture of the Advantage Sweet came days after the United States seized Suez Rajan, an oil tanker that was transporting sanctioned Iranian oil to China.



Months after seizing the Suez Rajan, and despite Tehrans threats, Washington begun unloading the ships oil in August 2023.



Sanctions And 'Butterfly' Patients



The Tehran courts ruling has put the spotlight on the impact of U.S. sanctions on the health sector in Iran.



In 2018, then-U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew Washington from a landmark nuclear deal between Iran and world powers and reimposed sanctions against Tehran.



Iranians have witnessed rising prices and faced shortages of life-saving medicine -- including drugs for cancer treatment and insulin -- in recent years due to U.S. sanctions and corruption.



U.S. sanctions imposed on Iran exclude food and medicine. But in practice, the restrictions have made it difficult for Tehran to purchase some drugs, according to human rights groups.

That includes specialized bandages produced by Swedish firm Molnlycke that are used to treat epidermolysis bullosa patients, who often develop painful blisters and wounds, similar to third-degree burns. They are sometimes referred to as butterfly patients due to the fragility of their skin.

State Department spokesman Miller told reporters on March 6 that U.S. sanctions have always had a carveout for humanitarian purchases.

We have never prevented medicine from reaching the Iranian people, he added.



EB Home, the Iranian NGO, had previously filed an unsuccessful complaint against Molnlycke in Sweden in 2021.



In its failed complaint, the NGO claimed that Molnlycke had informed it in March 2019 correspondence that it had decided not to conduct any business with relation to Iran for the time being. This also applies to business conducted under any form of exceptions to the US economic sanctions.



In a 2021 report, United Nations experts warned about the consequences of over-compliance with U.S. sanctions on butterfly kids, who they said can no longer enjoy the right to health.



The following year, the Swedish government provided financial support to the United Nations Children's Fund to procure and deliver specialized bandages to Iran.



The lack of availability of certain medicines and health products in Iran is a humanitarian concern, affected by the impact of the sanctions regime on financial transactions, Swedens then-ambassador to Iran, Mattias Lentz, said. We do hope a solution will be found and will continue to support such a solution.
In the winter of 1924, inhabitants of a small village near Tehran looked up as a metal-bodied airplane swooped in to land, bumped along a field, then collapsed in a cloud of dust after its landing gear broke.

The pilot of the plane was Swiss aviator Walter Mittelholzer, who had received an invitation from the Persian government to deliver a new Junkers aircraft to the country, which would be renamed Iran in 1935.

Kaspar Surber, a Swiss journalist who wrote a book on Mittelholzer, told RFE/RL the aviator was chosen for the flight to Persia in part to "popularize flying" through aerial images he would take there.

Mittelholzer was famous at the time for becoming the first person to extensively photograph Switzerland's mountains from an airplane.

In the 1920s, Surber says there was something of a "race" between German and British aviation companies to begin air services in Persia, making Mittelholzer's photography skills a key promotional advantage.

A Swiss newspaper wrote of the aviator, "The Swiss people know what to expect from their Mr. Mittelholzer, who can not only pilot a plane across unknown countries but also photograph and film in flight."

After their ignominious landing 40 kilometers outside of Tehran, Mittelholzer and mechanic Ernst Bissegger had a tense confrontation with villagers before help eventually arrived from the Persian capital and their aircraft was repaired.

Mittelholzer and Bissegger's flight of more than 3,000 kilometers from Switzerland to Persia included a standoff with Turkish authorities who confiscated their plane, troubles with poor-quality gasoline purchased in Baghdad, and erroneous maps that forced them into the ill-fated landing during which their plane's landing gear collapsed.

Mittelholzers initial impressions of the territory of Persia from above were of "areas that lie desolate and empty and wander past the observing eye for hours. Huge alluvial fans, piles of rubble, and deltas of saline rivers [that] characterize the country."

Isolated settlements occasionally came into view as the pair flew over Persian territory.

"Here and there a green patch shines," Mittelholzer wrote, "a space in the center of which features residents' mud huts rising on narrow and winding streets. Silver bands mark the irrigation channels at the edges of the gardens."

Mittelholzer seized the opportunity to photograph Persia extensively from above in photographs that are now held by the ETH Zurich library.

The Swiss aviator and photographer also made use of his camera on the ground to capture a country on the cusp of dramatic change under Reza Shah Pahlavi, a ruler who would become known as Persia's "modernizing strongman."

At the time of Mittelholzer's visit to Persia, the country was without major rail or road networks, and camel caravans were still in use as a means of foreign trade, making air transport an enticing possibility for the country's rulers.

With the aviation industry still in its infancy in Persia, Mittelholzer and Bissegger had the sky virtually to themselves as they swept low over urban centers to snap images that would soon stun European audiences.

Mittelholzer predicted that aerial photography would play a significant role in documentary imagery of the future.

"Another hitherto unseen world opens up before us. It is as if the Earth has thereby gained a new face, and man a new, unflawed eye," he wrote in 1928.

After spending several weeks inside Iran, the two Swiss aviators eventually made the long trek back to Central Europe by car. Mittelholzer would later co-found a company that became Swissair, Switzerland's national carrier until 2002. He died in a mountaineering accident in 1937 aged 43.

In a newspaper obituary, a friend noted that Mittelholzer's death in the mountains that he loved, and that had sparked his extraordinary career, had a certain tragic poetry: "They have embraced him 0n his last wanderings and claimed him, and perhaps he would not have wished for a better end, but alas it came all too soon, there was so much more for him to do."
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.
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While Russias war on Ukraine may not end in 2024, this could be a make-or-break year for Kyivs defense against the invasion. Will the European Union come through with sufficient support? Marie Dumoulin, Director of the Wider Europe program at the European Council on Foreign Relations, joins host Steve Gutterman to discuss.
It took years for Jelena Riznic to get Serbian police to take action against a former university classmate who began stalking her in 2019. He eventually threatened violence and a large cache of weapons was discovered at his home when he was arrested. Since then, Riznic's requests for information have gone unanswered by the authorities.
In a recent turn of events, American automaker Ford seems to be gearing up for a potential re-entry into the vibrant Indian automotive space

Just weeks after canceling its Chennai plant sale deal with JSW Group, Ford has filed a design patent for its latest Endeavour SUV model, signalling a potential resurgence in the Indian market. This move comes in stark contrast to the companys earlier announcement of a phased withdrawal from India in 2021.

Ford India Re-entry?

The design patent filed by Ford pertains to the new-generation Endeavour SUV, which was globally introduced in 2022. The Endeavour, also known as the Ford Everest in select international markets, is set to make a strong comeback in India, showcasing the companys commitment to establishing a robust presence in the competitive Indian automotive landscape.

One of the noteworthy developments in Fords revised strategy is the cancellation of the initial plan to sell its Chennai plant. Instead of divesting its manufacturing facility, the company is now focusing on securing intellectual property rights by filing design patents for its upcoming models.

Further substantiating Fords renewed interest in the Indian market are recent job listings by Ford India, spanning various domains. These active recruitment initiatives underscore the companys intent to assemble a skilled and dynamic team to support its operations in the country.

Customer Writes To Ford India

Amidst these speculations, a Ford car owner in India took the initiative to inquire about the companys plans for launching new cars in the country. In response to the customers inquiry, Ford India issued a statement, stating:

Thank you for contacting Ford India. We thank you for choosing our product. We appreciate the time you have taken to write to us. We have noted down the contents of your mail. We wish to inform you that at present, we are not in a position to commit to a launch; kindly bear with us. Assuring you of our best support always.

This response from Ford India reflects a cautious yet optimistic stance, acknowledging the customers query while refraining from making any concrete commitments at this point. The carefully crafted message suggests that Ford is in the process of evaluating its plans for the Indian market and urges customers to be patient as the company navigates its potential re-entry.

As automotive enthusiasts and industry experts eagerly await further developments, Fords strategic moves and customer-centric communication continue to fuel speculation about the American automakers impending comeback in the fast-growing Indian automotive space. Only time will reveal the extent of Fords re-entry plans and the impact it will have on the Indian automotive market.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. In November 2023, Greece increased spending on natural gas imports from Azerbaijan, Eurostat, the European Union's statistical office, told Trend.

In November alone, Greece spent 64.2 million euros on gas imports from Azerbaijan, up from 57.7 million euros in October, representing a 11.3 percent increase.

Greece imported 158.3 million cubic meters of natural gas from Azerbaijan in November, compared to 161.7 million cubic meters in October, indicating a 2.1 percent decrease in import volume.

Over the first 11 months of 2023, the cumulative gas exports from Azerbaijan to Greece reached almost 1.8 billion cubic meters, with a total value of 808.8 million euros.

Azerbaijan initiated gas transportation to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor on December 31, 2020. The Southern Gas Corridor transports gas from the Caspian Sea region to European countries via Georgia and Turkiye, with a project cost of 33 billion US dollars. It is expected that the capital costs for the Southern Gas Corridor will be fully recouped within 810 years.

In July 2022, Azerbaijan and the EU reached an agreement to double the volume of gas supplies via the Southern Gas Corridor from the current 10 billion cubic meters to 20 billion cubic meters by 2027.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Energy ministers from the Central and South-Eastern Europe Energy Connectivity (CESEC) members met in Athens, Greece and adopted an updated action plan on gases among other documents, Trend reports via the European Commission.

CESEC works to accelerate the integration of central eastern and south eastern European gas and electricity markets. The CESEC high-level working group was set up in February 2015.

The expansion of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), which supplies Azerbaijani gas to Europe, is among the priority natural gas infrastructure projects in the adopted national action plan on gases.

The projects expected commissioning timeframe is December 2027.

Other projects in this list include Chiren UGS expansion, Bilciuresti underground gas storage, Krk LNG terminal expansion and capacity increase of the ZlobinBosiljevo pipeline and etc.

TAP transports natural gas from the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea to Europe. The 878 km long pipeline connects with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Turkish-Greek border in Kipoi, crosses Greece and Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Southern Italy.

TAP facilitates gas supplies to South Eastern European countries through existing and prospective interconnectors. TAP is connected to Interconnector Greece Bulgaria (IGB) which started its commercial operations in October 2022, providing Caspian gas to Bulgaria, enhancing security of energy supplies in one more European country. TAPs exits in Greece and Albania, together with the landfall in Italy provide multiple opportunities for further transport of gas from Azerbaijan to the wider European markets.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have captured a detailed image of a spectacular part of IC 438, a spiral galaxy located in the constellation of Lepus.

IC 438 resides approximately 130 million light-years away in the constellation of Lepus.

Lepus lies just south of the celestial equator (the ring around the middle of Earth that falls at right angles to its rotation axis), the Hubble astronomers said.

Appropriately, Lepus is flanked by the constellations Canis Major (the Greater Dog) and Orion (the Hunter), whilst Canis Minor (the Lesser Dog) lies very nearby, meaning that in artistic representations of the constellations, Lepus is often shown as being pursued by Orion and his two hunting dogs.

Lepus is one of the 88 constellations that are officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).

It is worth clarifying that, whilst the actual constellations themselves only comprise a handful of stars, the area of sky covered by those stars is often referred to using the name of the constellation.

For example, when we say that IC 438 is in Lepus, we do not mean that the galaxy is part of the constellation  perhaps obviously, as it is not a single star, but an entire galaxy!

Rather, we mean that it falls in the region of sky covered by the Lepus constellation stars.

The IAUs 88 official constellations are by no means the only constellations ever described by humanity, they said.

Humans have been studying and naming the stars for a very long time, and different cultures of course have their own constellations.

The IAU constellations are Eurocentric, with many taken from Ptolemys list of constellations.

Collectively, the 88 constellations divide the night sky into 88 regions which completely cover it, so that the approximate location of any celestial object can be described using one of the 88.

IC 438 was discovered on January 7, 1891 by the American astronomer Lewis Swift.

Otherwise known as ESO 555-9, IRAS 05508-1753 or LEDA 18047, this spiral galaxy has a diameter of 115,000 light-years.

IC 438 forms a gravitationally bound pair with the dwarf galaxy IC 2151, and is a main member of the IC 438 galaxy group (also known as LGG 134).

The impetus behind Hubble examining this galaxy was the Type Iax supernova SN 2017gbb that took place in 2017, a kind of supernova that arises from a binary system of two stars, the astronomers said.

While these data were obtained over three years after the supernova occurred, and so its not visible in this image, theres still a lot to learn from studying the aftermath of supernovae like this one.
Dynamic Parcel Distribution (DPD) is part of Geopost, an international delivery service for sorter-compatible parcels based in France. In a turn of events, DPD decided to turn off its AI-powered chatbot after it seemingly dissed the company to sympathize with the disgruntled customer.

DPD Disable AI-Powered Chatbot

Musician Ashley Beauchamp, 30, was attempting to locate a lost package, so he contacted DPD's chatbot for support. However, he got frustrated since it wasn't helpful at all. Due to his frustration, the irate customer switched gears and started playing around to see what the chatbot might accomplish. According to Beauchamp, this is when the "chaos started."

He first asked it to tell him a joke, but he quickly moved on to asking it to compose a poem that was critical of the business.

Beauchamp posted the exchange on X, to which the chatbot responded with the phrase, "F**k, I'll do my best to be as helpful as possible, even if it means swearing."

In another part of the conversation, the chatbot even refers to itself as a "useless Chatbot that can't help you."

A single post from London-based classical musician Beauchamp received 800,000 views in a single day. "It's utterly useless at answering any queries, and when asked, it happily produced a poem about how terrible they are as a company," he said on X, referring to the chatbot.

Beauchamp's post received several responses from netizens. One wondered if it was genuine, adding that if it was, then it was "absolutely hilarious." Beauchamp assured her that the conversation was real. Another said it was an "AI revolution."

Many netizens expressed doubt over the conversation, with several asking if the exchange was "real." Beauchamp doubled down, telling them he had just taken the screenshots from his phone. He explained that he was trying to track a lost parcel and was entertained by his convo with the AI chatbot.

DPD uses artificial intelligence (AI) in its online chat to assist human operators in answering questions. According to the company, the chatbot's strange behavior was caused by a recent update. As a result, the company turned off the chatbot, removed the offending component, and updated its system.

Beauchamp pointed out that these chatbots were meant to make our lives easier, but when used incorrectly, they usually make things worse and make the user feel more impersonal and frustrated.

As for his lost package, DPD had already contacted Beauchamp to "resolve his issue."

Screenshots taken from my phone just now! Trying to find a parcel which never turned up. No closer to finding my parcel, but had an entertaining 10 minutes with this chatbot   Ashley Beauchamp (@ashbeauchamp) January 18, 2024

ALSO READ: Can ChatGPT Replace Human Brain? AI Tool Generating Content Comes With a Price





ChatGPT Provides More Empathetic Responses

A panel of doctors preferred ChatGPT's sensible and empathetic responses over actual physicians. ChatGPT is a chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched on Nov. 30, 2022.

In a recent study led by the University of California, the effectiveness of doctors and the AI chatbotChatGPT in responding to 195 medical inquiries were compared to determine which was more empathetic.

Researchers collected questions from the public "AskDocs" subreddit. One guy, for example, asked about the dangers of swallowing a toothpick. Another person asked if they would have a concussion if they hit their head on a metal rod. A moderator verified the qualifications of the healthcare professional who responded to questions on the subreddit. The researchers also ran the questions using ChatGPT to generate a response.

A group of medical professionals were asked which response, the doctor or the chatbot, was better. They did not, however, know whose answers came from.

Each instance was assessed by three different judges, yielding a total of 585 evaluations. The judges' ratings were then averaged.

In 79 percent of the cases, the judges preferred the chatbot responses over the medical responses due to their superior understanding and more empathetic language.

<br />

RELATED ARTICLE: AI (Artificial Intelligence) Bot GPT-3 Finished a 500-Word Academic Thesis

Check out more news and information on Technology in Science Times.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 22. Kazakhstan and Italy have signed 18 contracts totaling $1.5 billion during Kassym-Jomart Tokayevs visit to Rome, Trend reports.

Thus, KazMunayGas JSC (Kazakhstan's national oil and gas company) and Itlaian Eni signed a document on the implementation of a joint project for the construction of a hybrid power plant with a total capacity of 247 MW.

At the same time, Kazakhstan Investment Development Fund and Cormatex (textile machinery manufacturer) signed an agreement to create a consortium for the construction and launch of a plant for the production of thermal insulation materials in Aktobe city. The first batch of finished products is planned to be released in 2024.

In addition, an agreement to determine the conditions and timing of the project for the construction of a sulfuric acid plant with a capacity of 800,000 tons per year in the Turkestan region was signed between Samruk-Kazyna JSC (Sovereign Wealth Fund), QazaqStroy LLP and Ballestra.

Moreover, Agrofirma TNK LLP and Bonifiche Ferraresi signed a cooperation agreement in the field of production of organic grain crops.

Also, KAZAKHINVEST JSC (Kazakhstan's national company) and Italian Simest agreed to cooperate in attracting Italian companies to Kazakhstan in order to open joint production facilities.

These and other signed agreements symbolize the successful development and strengthening of economic relations between Kazakhstan and Italy.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Italy amounted to $13.1 billion from January through October 2023, which is 0.7 percent higher than for the same period in 2022 ($13 billion).

Exports from Kazakhstan to Italy for the above period amounted to $12.1 billion. Imports to Kazakhstan from Italy from January through October 2023 increased by 32.4 percent and amounted to $1 billion.
Geotechnical specialist Getech announced the partial sale of its head office on Monday, after consolidating its operations during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The AIM-traded company said its former head office consisted of three properties known as Kitson House, Nicholson House, and The Old Hall, situated at Elmete Hall near Leeds.

Getech said it owned two of the properties, namely Kitson House, a Grade 2 listed Georgian building spanning 5,726 square feet, and Nicholson House, a modern 6,996 square foot office building.

In response to cost-saving measures during the pandemic, the firm said it vacated Kitson House and consolidated its operations into Nicholson House.

Getech announced the successful sale of Kitson House on Monday, generating gross proceeds of 0.65m.

The net proceeds from the sale would be used to retire the bank debt associated with the property, which was currently under discussion with the bank.

The remaining funds would be retained by the company as working capital.

In contrast, Getech said it had retained full ownership of Nicholson House, an asset independently valued at 0.86m in December.

Approximately 0.35m of remaining debt would now be exclusively secured against Nicholson House.

The company said it was actively marketing Nicholson House for sale, with the intention of relocating to more suitable premises in central Leeds.

We are pleased to have sold Kitson House and we will use the net proceeds to continue to develop the business, said acting chief executive officer Richard Bennett.

Although the property market remains challenging, we shall continue to offer Nicholson House to the market and use the proceeds to relocate within Leeds to more appropriate offices closer to the university and its innovative community.

This will enhance the business as we accelerate the development of the Globe geoscience platform.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Digital mental health service provider Kooth said in a trading update on Monday that it anticipated its 2023 revenue to reach 33.3m, representing year-on-year growth of around 65%.

The AIM-traded company noted that the growth figure did not include $4m in revenue from US contracts initially expected to be recognised in 2023, but now scheduled for early 2024.

As of 31 December, Kooth reported an unaudited net cash balance of 10.9m, up from 8.5m in 2022.

Additionally, it secured a working capital credit facility with Citibank, amounting to $9.5m, which remained untapped.

Kooth said its strategic expansion into the United States saw the successful launch of its digital mental health platform and mobile app, Soluna, in California in January.

The company said it was currently in the final stages of negotiations with the state of Pennsylvania for a contract extension, building on its pilot programme initiated in October 2022.

In the UK market, Kooth reported revenue growth for 2023, but acknowledged the presence of near-term challenges due to a heightened focus on cost-saving within the NHS and the ongoing backlog of acute care cases.

Kooth said it was committed to demonstrating the positive impact and cost savings it could deliver when commissioned in various regions.

2023 was a year of significant progress for Kooth, underlined by our largest contract win with the state of California, said chief executive officer Tim Barker.

Alongside our work in Pennsylvania, Kooth is now a leader in the important US digital mental health market and a provider of choice for the provision of services to children and young people.

Barker said that momentum, combined with the firms strong financial performance and its ability to generate recurring revenue, left it well-placed for further progress in 2024.

The need for digital mental health services is as great as ever and we look forward to ensuring that Kooth remains a trusted and growing provider for children and young people both in the US and UK.

Further updates on Kooth's progress would be provided in its full-year results, which were expected to be announced in March.

At 1336 GMT, shares in Kooth were down 2.25% at 286.4p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Biopesticide specialist Eden Research said in a trading update on Monday that it expected a 72% increase in full-year revenue for 2023, to 3.1m, surpassing market expectations by 0.3m.

The AIM-traded firm flagged a 63% increase in product sales to 2.6m, aligning with market projections, and an EBITDA loss of about 1.2m, excluding share-based payments, which would be 0.7m better than market forecasts.

It was anticipating a year-end cash position of 7.4m, slightly below market expectations of 7.8m.

On the operational front, Eden Research said its product sales showed impressive growth despite challenging growing conditions affecting demand for fungicides.

The appointment of Corteva France as Eden's distribution partner for Mevalone, marketed as Esseva in France, contributed to the growth, given France's reputation for high-quality agricultural output and substantial fungicide usage in the viticulture sector.

There was potential for expanding Esseva's applications for treating mildews pending regulatory approvals.

In 2023, Mevalone gained approvals in New Zealand, Ireland and Poland, and sales of Cedroz also resumed after resolving production-related issues.

In the US, Eden secured multiple state-level approvals for Mevalone and Cedroz, and

following California's approval after the year-end, more significant Mevalone sales were expected in the US in 2024.

Ecovelex, Eden's seed treatment product, obtained temporary approval in Italy for bird-repellent use in maize for the 2024 season, facilitating sales to Corteva.

The company said it was optimistic about its outlook for 2024, anticipating robust product sales growth driven by Ecovelex sales, expansion of Mevalone and Cedroz market share, and approvals in additional territories.

Eden's recent successful fundraise of 9.9m would meanwhile support product development, expansion into new markets, and overall growth.

In 2023 Eden achieved several key regulatory and commercial milestones resulting in solid sales performance and revenues which have exceeded market expectations, said chief executive officer Sean Smith.

A particular highlight was the granting of a temporary approval of Ecovelex in Italy for use as a bird repellent seed treatment in maize for the 2024 growing season, marking the first commercial sales of not only a new product, but an entirely new product category; an exciting milestone which gives an early indication of the long-term commercial viability of that product.

The commencement of sales of Mevalone for use in California following regulatory approval was also an important event and provides us with access to a significant addressable market, which we hope to further capture in 2024.

Looking ahead, Smith said the firms successful fundraise in 2023 would allow it to expedite the development of its existing product portfolio, expand into new geographies and develop new product opportunities.

In 2024 we will continue to build on the progress made this year to drive sales growth, step-up commercial activity and push forward apace with our product plans.

At 1321 GMT, shares in Eden Research were up 6.67% at 6p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
Sainsbury's chief Simon Roberts gave his support to the Financial Mail on Sunday's campaign for police to crack down on shoplifters as an epidemic of retail crime sweeps across the country. Roberts also said he backed making abuse or violence against retail staff a specific offence. He also noted that the grocer had been the first to offer all of its 150,00 staff body-worn cameras that can aid support teams at its stores. - The Financial Mail on Sunday

British Steel's new auditor has unexpectedly resigned, further putting at risk 600m of state aid needed to stave off collapse at the Chinese-owned manufacturer.The decision by Moore Kingston Smith follows its inability to verify tens of millions of pounds' worth of inventories. The auditor had taken over just over a year ago from Mazars which had resigned after a row over fees. Moore Kingston Smith said it could not account for 45.8m worth of stock during the year ending in December 2021, the accounts for which had been severely delayed. - The Sunday Times

US state of Florida hard-right governor Ron DeSantis has bowed out of the running for the Republican party's presidential nomination. Instead, he has thrown his support behind Donald Trump. "Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, DeSantis said on X. "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." - Guardian

Enquest chief executive officer Amjad Bseisu criticised Labour's plan to ban new oil and gas drilling, calling it "economically senseless". Bseisu believed that it would lead to rigs being shut down a decade ahead of plan. Indeed, the driller's two large Magnus and Kraken platforms would be rendered less economical and put at risk of being closed early. Early closures would also have an impact on the Treasury as oil companies get big tax breaks for decommissioning. - The Sunday Telegraph
In days of yore, farmers worked under the burden of manually operating motors, initiating their tasks and subsequently remembering to power down these machines. The struggles were real, as forgetfulness often led to unnecessary complications during those olden times. Fast forward to the present era, and we find ourselves immersed in a technological haven where the landscape of effort has undergone a revolutionary transformation. The evolution of technology has been nothing short of remarkable, improving the need for difficult struggles in our daily lives. Gone are the days when one had to navigate the complexities of manually switching on and off motors, only to sometimes forget, causing untold inconveniences. In this modern age, we stand at the precipice of a technological renaissance where the touch of a button accomplishes what once required physical presence and effort. The essence of this transformation lies in the sheer speed at which technology has progressed. We now inhabit a world where tasks unfold in the blink of an eye, where the once intricate and laborious processes have been distilled into seamless, immediate actions. No longer do individuals need to venture beyond their immediate surroundings; the power to control, command and conclude tasks resides in the simple act of swiping a button.

Introducing smartphone-controlled motors in agriculture revolutionizes water and power conservation. This innovative technology allows users to activate various types of motors efficiently. This mobile GSM-controlled machine offers a solution to the common issue of water pumps burning out during high voltage, which often leads to pump dryness. Operating seamlessly across India, this device ensures remote accessibility. In this article, we provide comprehensive details on the functionality and usage of this cutting-edge technology, highlighting its pivotal role in addressing major challenges in agriculture and promoting sustainable resource management.

Simplicity Unleashed

At its core, the GSM controller machine operates with a simplicity that confirms its technological skill. Compatible with any sim card, except for Jio, this device transforms the cumbersome task of pump control into a straightforward process. A simple phone call to the designated number sets the wheels in motion, with the press of 7 initiating immediate pump action and a simple 9 bringing about a swift shutdown. The brilliance of this simplicity lies in its accessibility, making it a technological marvel even for those with minimal technical know-how.

What sets the GSM controller machine apart is its forward-thinking design?

It goes beyond basic functionality, offering an auto mode equipped with safety features that prioritize water safety. In an era where sustainable agricultural practices are paramount, this device addresses a crucial need. Its adaptability to diverse electrical constraints further underscores its versatility, ensuring reliable performance in various agricultural settings. The GSM controller machine doesn't discriminate; it accommodates single-phase motors with ease. This feature alone makes it a tailored solution for a multitude of farmers grappling with the challenges of motor control. What's more, its ability to seamlessly navigate both low and high voltage capacities adds another layer of flexibility to its already impressive repertoire.

From a user's perspective, the GSM controller machine presents a compelling case. The absence of charges for controlling the motor pump is a financial relief for farmers looking to maximize their resources without compromising efficiency. Its low-cost maintenance and unwavering performance underscore its commitment to longevity and reliability, providing a sustainable solution for farmers who demand enduring quality.

As someone deeply entrenched in the agricultural landscape, I find the GSM controller machine to be a transformative tool. Its simplicity in operation, compatibility with various motor types and cost-effectiveness align seamlessly with the needs of modern farmers. It's not just a technological gadget; it's a partner in navigating the complexities of contemporary agriculture. The GSM controller machine's emphasis on water safety is particularly resonant. In an age where environmental consciousness is paramount, this device champions the cause of sustainable agricultural practices. Its role in mitigating water-related concerns while efficiently controlling pumps is a testament to its value in addressing the real challenges faced by farmers today.

Paving the Way Forward

The GSM controller machine stands as a testament to the possibilities that technology brings to agriculture. It is a silent force that empowers farmers, streamlines operations, and provides a cost-effective solution to age-old challenges. As we usher in a new era of agricultural practices, the GSM controller machine takes its place as a symbol of progress, promising a future where farming is not just a profession but a harmonious partnership between technology and tradition.
Manu Jain, Co-Founder of Vama, a startup based in New Delhi offering virtual pujas, darshans and astrology services, likened the current surge in interest to the impact of the Indian government's demonetization in November 2016, describing it as a pivotal moment for those in the industry. Jain noted a 35% rise in organic searches on Vama this month, specifically from individuals seeking pujas, in the context of the upcoming inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

India's growing market for religious and spiritual apps, backed by investors like Peak XV Partners, Elevation Capital, Titan Capital, and India Quotient in recent years, is anticipated to receive a boost from the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, according to several founders and investors in the industry. As devotees flock to Ayodhya for the inauguration, numerous spiritual and astrology platforms are actively participating in the event and experiencing increased demand for their products and services.

Manu Jain, Co-Founder of Vama, noted a significant surge in spirituality searches related to the Ram Mandir, indicating a heightened curiosity about the sector. Vama, funded by investors such as Wavemaker Partners and notable angels, is among the platforms witnessing this trend. Quick commerce platforms like BigBasket, Zepto, Blinkit, and Swiggy Instamart are also capitalizing on the demand for items essential to religious ceremonies, creating dedicated categories for products like lamps, flowers, incense sticks, coconuts, and sweets.

Devotional platform DevDham, backed by Titan Capital, reported a 30-35% increase in daily engagement on its app after raising Rs 6 crore this month. The startup, which has partnered with over 500 temples, is experiencing heightened enthusiasm for the Ram Mandir inauguration, with individuals from remote areas expressing interest in making offerings. DevDham's co-founder, Pranav Kapoor, believes that the digital platform will see growing interest as it allows people to participate in pujas at various temples across India. Investors view the Ram Mandir inauguration as a potential catalyst for the spiritual app segment, which is already witnessing increased business. Anand Lunia, founding partner at India Quotient, expressed confidence in the trend, stating that consumers are increasingly inclined to explore online options in this sector.

Prashant Sachan, founder of AppsForBharat (backed by Peak XV and Elevation Capital), highlighted the platform's focus on the digital Ram Mandir, reporting a significant surge in engagement. The platform, founded in 2020, has secured $14 million in funding and offers virtual platforms for devotees to create shrines, connect with prayer groups, and access devotional content. Sachan noted a substantial increase in digital interactions, including virtual flower offerings, digital aarti participation, and content sharing on the platform, showcasing the growing impact of digital engagement in the spiritual realm.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Public bus shelters used by U.S. military service members and visitors to travel to and from historic Fort Wadsworth are slated for an upgrade.

The move comes after borough activist and former Community Board 1 member Kevin Washington raised issues about the condition of the shelters with the Advance.

Washington pointed out that some of the shelters were missing their protective plastic panels, and that crude wooden benches inside the shelters were uncomfortable and worse for wear.

Where do you see a wooden bench except in a park? Washington said. How is it that nobodys noticed this?

A visit by the Advance showed that in addition to missing protective panels, benches inside some of the shelters were covered with a thin coating of ice after recent winter storms and bitterly cold temperatures.

Wooden bench inside bus shelter at Fort Wadsworth is coated with ice after recent winter storms and bitterly cold temperatures. (Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance)Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance

An honorably discharged member of the U.S. Marine Corps, Washington said that the military members serving at Fort Wadsworth who use the buses deserve more consideration.

To have them sitting on those benches, cmon, Washington said. We can do better and we should do better for the active duty members on that base.

The S51 and S81 bus lines, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, make stops inside the fort.

Washington said he wanted to see the current shelters replaced with more modern ones, with digital signage included so that riders can see how long the wait is for their bus.

We see what the new bus shelters out on the street look like, Washington said, adding that the shelters inside the fort are like 1960s bus shelters.

Bus shelters inside Fort Wadsworth lack common rider amenities such as digital bus arrival countdown signs. (Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance)Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance

Nicholas Zvegintzov, chairman of the Transportation Committee for Community Board 1, said that the community board first raised the issue of the Fort Wadsworth bus shelters with authorities in 2022.

Part of the nations coastal defense system since the 1840s, Fort Wadsworth is now part of the Staten Island Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area and is maintained by the National Park Service.

Some U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Coast Guard units are still based at the fort and there are also lodging and military shopping facilities there.

The bus shelters are National Park Service property, according to Daphne Yun, public affairs officer for Gateway National Recreation Area.

We are in the planning stage of a project to address the shelters, she said.

Details of the design are still being discussed at this time, Yun said, adding that any upgrade will probably happen in fiscal year 2025.

The Advance had contacted the National Park Service about Washingtons comments.

Staten Island activist Kevin Washington said that the wooden benches inside bus shelters on the grounds of Fort Wadsworth, like the one seen in this photo, are uncomfortable and appear worse for wear. (Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance)Tom Wrobleski/Staten Island Advance

In different ways Fort Wadsworth and the bus shelters in Fort Wadsworth perform the same function, Washington said. They provide protection. And just like a fort protects soldiers, the bus shelters will protect daily commuters, visitors and soldiers.

Pointing to the fact that Fort Wadsworth is one of the oldest military installations in the nation, Washington said he was glad to see that there was movement on the bus shelter issue.

After these many years, decades and centuries, its nice to think that we can bring 21st century, state-of-the-art bus protection to this old fort, he said. These new updated modern bus shelters are long overdue.

Said Zvegintzov, We hope they can bring the public bus shelters up to standard quickly.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  New York City students in public schools will soon get a break from their coursework in less than a month.

Students will be able to enjoy time off during a week-long mid-winter recess from Feb. 19-23, which includes time off for Presidents Day.

The last day of classes for public school  before mid-winter break begins  is Friday, Feb. 16.

Students return to class on Monday, Feb. 26.

This gives students nine full days off from school during the break, including weekends.

The next time public students will enjoy a week-long break is during spring recess, starting on the first day of Passover on Monday, April 22. The last day of classes before spring recess is Friday, April 19, and students return to class after the long break on Wednesday, May 1. It means public school students have 11 days off from class.

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York do not offer a mid-winter recess, only providing time off for Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 19.

Catholic school students will also get their next long break for Easter recess in March, beginning on Holy Thursday on March 28, resuming classes on Monday, April 8. That means Catholic school students will have 11 days off from school during their Easter break.
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The next international meeting on Syria within the framework of the Astana process will be held in the capital city of Kazakhstan, said Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Aibek Smadiarov, Trend reports.

"In line with the collective appeal of the guarantor countries of the 'Astana format', the 21st International Meeting on Syria within the framework of the Astana process will be held in the capital of Kazakhstan on January 24-25, 2024. Delegations from Russia, Turkiye, Iran, the Syrian government, and the opposition will participate in the talks. Representatives of Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon, as well as the UN, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Committee of the Red Cross are expected to participate as observers," Smadiarov said.

According to him, the preliminary agenda includes the development of the regional situation around Syria, efforts for a comprehensive settlement in the Syrian Arab Republic, the humanitarian situation in the country, and mobilization of efforts of the international community to promote post-conflict reconstruction of Syria and related matters.

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And, boasting over 1200 locations worldwide and a newly refreshed design, Holiday Inn offers roaming workers a place to call home  with flexible meeting spaces, full-service bars, restaurants and fitness centres.

The McDowells tend to lay down roots for a month at a time and while Aaron logs on for work meetings or catches up with international colleagues and clients, Jordy takes Luca to meet friends and local expat mums shes found online.

Most of my day is still a workday and Im not on holiday, but I think being in new places brings a sense of adventure and it motivates me to get up early or do things in the evening more than I would at home.

Holiday Inn offers roaming workers a place to call home. Credit: Holiday Inn

A new career direction

Whether hes working from a Guatemalan hostel or the front seat of a rental car flying along a US highway, Eliot Davenport, 31, shifts his work hours to maximise time for exploring.

Having no fixed address was not the original career ambition for Eliot Davenport. After I left university, I went to work as a product manager and later in insurance, wearing a suit every day and working my way into management, he says. Then about five years ago I met my current partner who was a travel blogger, and I quit my job to go travelling with her.

After returning to Melbourne with an empty bank account, he sought out a way to make a living remotely, eventually settling on SEO (search engine optimisation) and investing in Fjaka Sail, a Croatian sailing business.

Suddenly, I was a junior in a small marketing company taking a 50 per cent pay cut from what Id been earning as a manager, he says.

But my work is now 100 per cent remote  I just have to get my 38 hours of work done within the week and attend required meetings and manage the marketing for Fjaka Sail on the side.

Over the past five years, hes worked from coworking spaces, cafes, hotels, hostels and in transit. I might clock in hours while cruising the highways or rise at dawn to wrap up by afternoon, leaving the rest of the day for exploration, he says.

Often Davenport will be parked in front of his computer while his partner is scoping a local festival or gallery, but its the price hes willing to pay to be able to earn money while travelling.

One of the biggest challenges Ive found is creating time for myself and not feeling a sense of guilt that I should be going out and exploring, he explains.

Ive had to get comfortable with the fact that, yeah, Im living my dream going to all of these beautiful locations, but sometimes just sitting on the balcony looking at them while working is enough  thats the trade-off for working like this to make sure you dont burn out.

New day, new stay. More than just an iconic accommodation destination, Holiday Inn hotels and resorts are home to the meaningful moments of life  celebrating with family, laughing among friends, celebrating that team win, planning the big strategy, or indulging in me time. With over 1,000 locations across the globe, Holiday Inn is wherever you need  no matter who you are or why you travel. Learn more.
Ranting on social media rarely leads to love, but musician and performer Willing is an exception. Last year, while posting anonymously as @feryl.meryl  an Instagram meme account that lovingly lampoons Melbourne culture  he was complaining about boring men on Hinge who lead with their desire to do the crossword and walk the Tan on a Sunday, when a handsome admirer slid into his DMs. That night, they serendipitously met at a party and began a whirlwind, perfect, literally Linklater romance.

Willing drew on Melbourne love stories for his new cabaret show. Credit: Simon Schluter

Until then, Willing  the stage name of William Hannagan  had mainly used @feryl.meryl as a place to share witty observations from a decade or so spent as a gay gad about town for a niche but highly invested audience. While the content was lighthearted, he was amazed by the extent to which people would confide in him.

Because no one knew who I was, people would develop parasocial relationships and just tell me stuff, he recalls. Theres this really fertile, vulnerable space that gets created through anonymity.

Freshly re-enchanted with romance and wondering what he could learn from his followers, Willing posted a call-out for love stories under the guise of research for a nonexistent PhD. The responses he received are the basis for his cabaret On the Uncertainty of Signs, which makes its debut this week at Theatre Works as part of Midsumma Festival.
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Eating outKitchen Drawer The $110 wine glass you need at home, according to a top Australian sommelier Want something thats just as good for riesling, pinot, shiraz or champagne? Consider this elegant hand-blown glass. The award-winning Ian Trinkle tells us why its in his drinks cabinet. Matt Shea January 22, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Ian Trinkle says people tend to overcomplicate wine glasses. I think theres a tendency to say, You need to have this with that. Like, champagne flutes are a bit passe at the moment, and people are finally learning you dont really need them hanging around the home. But there has been that temptation in the past to overcomplicate it. Wineisms Ian Trinkle with the Gabriel-Glas gold edition hand-blown wine glass. Markus Ravik Trinkle sells wine glasses at his slick wine store and bar Wineism, in Albion, in Brisbanes north, but has an extensive background as a sommelier, first in the US, and then Australia where he oversaw the wine lists at restaurants such as Aria Brisbane and Arc Dining (Aria took out the coveted Wine List of the Year award in 2018 under Trinkles stewardship). He says his choice of wine glass has evolved over the years. When I was working in restaurants, Riedel was king of wine glasses, Trinkle says. I really liked, and still do, Zalto. But while theyre beautiful and delicate, they do tend to break quite easily.

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The $35 IKEA frying pan this top chef swears by His go-to these days is a hand-blown Gabriel-Glas number made with lead-free crystal. Its an appropriate pick, because Gabriel-Glas more or less makes just one type of glass, but with a machine-blown variant available if you want to save a bunch of dollars (theres also a stemless glass angled more towards beer). The hand-blown version typically retails for about $110 a unit in Australia, but you can get a twin pack for $100 if you cast around. The glass itself combines what you might think as typical characteristics of a red and white glass, with a broad bowl  the d--- measuring swirl kings? You can still do that, Trinkle says  matched to a gently conical shape. The glass has a 500-millilitre capacity but doesnt feel that large, perhaps due to its hand-blown nature, which gives it an elegant, seamless construction (but also a relatively high degree of strength). Its still delicate but a little more sturdy than the Zaltos, Trinkle says. I love them. I was at Embla [in Melbourne] and they were using them by the glass. And we got them for Arc when I was there. Theres a simplicity to them. I dont really like big garish wine glasses. Its sleek, its understated. Its [designed] by a wine critic, Rene Gabriel, and theyre made in Austria. These are hand-blown. We have the manufactured ones that we use day-to-day [at Wineism]. But if youre getting six or something like that, its a great showpiece. If youre drinking riesling, awesome; pinot, great; and you can use them for shiraz and champagne.

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The one knife you need at home, according to a star chef And if you really need something else in the wine cabinet? Trinkle recommends grabbing a couple of bigger burgundy glasses for a barolo or other cellared reds. And then I have my plastic Plumms for pool-time enjoyment, he says. Theyre mostly filled with spritzers and daiquiris, that sort of thing. And thats pretty much it. Gabriel-Glas gold edition hand-blown glass mygabrielglas.com

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Eating outArtisans & farmers World-beating Victorian artisan cheese business Holy Goat is set to close The trailblazing cheesemakers goats cheese set the benchmark for chevre in Australia and scooped countless awards. Sadly, their final batch will hit the market in May. Dani Valent January 23, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The founders of renowned Victorian goat cheese producer Holy Goat have announced their retirement, the closure of their on-farm cheese factory, and the consequent removal from the market of La Luna, their prizewinning signature cheese. Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs will stay on the farm with their goats and continue to restore habitat for native animals. The herd will be milked through to April with the last cheese to reach the market in May. Carla Meurs and Ann-Marie Monda from Holy Goat cheese. Monda says she has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of sadness and shock from prominent chefs, including Matt Moran and Stephanie Alexander, since Good Food broke the news. Im blindsided, she says. I had no idea there would be such a response. We have just done our job and lived our vocation.

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She notes that you never retire from a vocation. We will be stepping into a different light of the vocation, being more attentive to our goats than weve ever been, seeing them in a different way, she says. Well be working on the farm, rewilding the habitat, using the goats to manage weeds and to live their life with us. The former teachers moved to Sutton Grange Organic Farm, 20km east of the central Victorian town of Castlemaine, in 1999 and started making La Luna four years later. Soft and silky with an unmistakable wrinkly rind, the cheese has set the benchmark for chevre in Australia, scooping up countless awards in the process. Holy Goat cheese is not cheap  a 110g chevre retails for about $25  but the enterprise has never been about making money. I wouldnt say its a business that has made any profit even though some people think our cheese is expensive, says Monda. Thats the true cost of your food if you want ethical treatment of land, animals and people. La Luna is served in leading restaurants around the country, including Vue de Monde, Lake House, Rockpool Bar and Grill, and Sydneys Quay.

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Australia has gorgeous cheeses but when I compare them to France, we usually lose a few points, says Rockpool culinary director Corey Costelloe. Holy Goat produces world-beating cheese. I havent tasted better goats cheese when Im in France. Rockpool culinary directory Corey Costelloe. Janie Barrett Partners in business and life, Monda and Meurs are in their mid-60s. They milk a herd of 100 free-range goats, keeping the business deliberately small-scale and barely leaving the farm. Its a great way to live, Meurs told The Producers podcast in 2021. You milk goats in the morning, make the cheese that morning and through the day, and milk them again at night and it rolls on like that. They name their goats and treat them like family. The name Holy Goat suits how we want to be with goats and farming, Monda told The Producers. Were reverential and respectful to them. We exist here as cheese producers because we have these extraordinary animals that provide milk to us and the joy and fun of living with a herd of animals.

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Ann-Marie Monda and Carla Meurs with their goat herd at Sutton Grange in 2009. John Woudstra Lake Houses Alla Wolf-Taskerwas one of Holy Goats first customers. She notes that the owners not only created world-class cheeses but mentored others and shared what they had learned. They were all about controlling the size of what they did so they could keep a handle on it, she says. They would bring groups from [restaurant] kitchens in spring to see the babies. There was an educational component as well. They have been the most significant thing to happen in our industry in the past 30 years, along with the relaxation of raw milk regulations, which was partly their doing as well. Anthony Femia, cheesemonger, Maker & Monger Sally Gosper runs Sydney-based specialty food distributor Two Providores. Theyve left a wonderful legacy, she says. Theyve educated people in hospitality and cheesemaking around Australia. Theres a celebration in that, even though its sad they will no longer make cheese.

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Sally Gosper, of artisan food purveyor Two Providores, with a Holy Goat La Luna Ring. Dominic Lorrimer Top cheesemonger Anthony Femia is awed by Holy Goats place in Australian cheese history. They have been the most significant thing to happen in our industry in the past 30 years, along with the relaxation of raw milk regulations, which was partly their doing as well, says the owner of Maker & Monger at Prahran Market. Carla and Ann-Marie are trailblazing in terms of the holy trinity of care for land, care for animals, and care for milk, which adds up to incredible cheese, says Femia. They took artisan cheesemaking to the next level, moving it away from mass-produced, industrialised, standardised products for supermarkets. Every cheesemaker has been inspired by them. Anthony Femia at Maker & Monger, in Melbournes Prahran Market. Arsineh Houspian

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Monda and Meurs profoundly affected Femias life. Early in his career, the aspiring Sydney cheesemonger won a scholarship that allowed him to spend time at Holy Goat in central Victoria. If it wasnt for them, I would have stayed safe, done whatever everyone else did, the same boring thing, he says. They inspired me to move to Melbourne, change everything. Meurs also literally saved his life. I got up at 6am and walked across to the milking shed half asleep, he says. There was a brown snake waiting at the door. Carla came over with a shovel, killed it without any hesitation and said, Welcome to the country, young fella. There is no one else like them anywhere. The experts guide to making the perfect cheese toastie  plus five of Melbournes best

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Eating outRegional guides The Good Food guide to eating and drinking in the Yarra Valley Theres so much more to the valley than grapevines. Heres everything you need to know about eating and drinking well in Victorias oldest wine region. Gemima Cody January 23, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The Yarra Valleys bucolic, vine-lined hills have deservedly earned it a reputation for high-end wine dining. Its the home of Domaine Chandon, Oakridge, and Levantine Hill, where the affluent can charter a chopper from the CBD for lunch. But chardonnay isnt the only gold emerging from those rich soils. And while Healesville remains the most blessed by provedores, distilleries and cellar doors, as you trace the valleys arteries, youll find world-class bakeries, caffeine dealers to rival the CBDs most elite, and places pimping so much of the regions bounty, youll never be able to look at the valley through purely rose-tinted glasses again. Come for the wines. Stay for deliciously good times. A four-seat restaurant inside a whisky bar is coming to the Yarra Valley For excellent coffee (and beans for home) Silvas Wesburn roastery and sister coffee bar in Warburton nips your regional coffee fears in the bean. Its the sort of coffee nerd zone you dont expect to find beyond Fitzroy, where, aside from crafting their nutty, caramelly Bom Jesus or fruity Copan Ruinas roasts into perfect ristrettos and lattes, you can stock up on freshly ground beans and brew tech (from Aeropress gadgets to premium siphon set-ups) for the rest of your trip. Hiking? Grab their sparkling cold drip cans to power you up Mount Donna Buang. Unit 1, 3400 Warburton Highway, Warburton, silvacoffee.com.au

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Benjamin Griffiths at Yarra Valley Artisan Baker in Wesburn. For bread and pastries People travel far for the kind of detailed pastry lamination you see in the croissants and kouign-amann made by chef-turned-baker Benjamin Griffiths at Yarra Valley Artisan Baker. In fact, the customers often come from further afield than the ingredients. The biodynamic rye, spelt and French red Zanzibar flours for the fastidiously slow-risen loaves come from Miller Baker James in Seville. The eggs and rich jersey milk for the custard and citrus tarts come from micro-farms around the corner, while danishes and frangipane are all stuffed with whatever locals provide. Your only decision is whether to come early and snag all the potato focaccia, or wait until 10.30am when the baguettes drop. Shop 1, 2876 Warburton Highway, Wesburn, yarravalleyartisanbaker.com For all-day breakfast

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Theyre big on detail at My Little Kitchen. Local corned beef is layered up with bacon-braised cabbage, a fried egg and luxe cheese sauce for one helluva croque-madame-Reuben crossover. You can (and should) book for brunch in the dog-friendly courtyard for their signature green machine of zucchini fritters flanked by pea hummus, wasabi peas and mojo verde; eggs benedict with local ham (or harissa spinach) and fresh juices. Or if youve done damage visiting distilleries, roll in later for the succour of a southern fried chicken burger and a brew  coffee or beer  to fix what ails you. 274 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, mylittlekitchen.com.au Visitors to Yarra Valley Dairy can order simple or more complex cheese-tasting plates. Hugh Davison For a cheese fix Cheesemonger Sophie in Healesville is the realisation of cheese whiz Sophie Classons lifelong dream. The stunning fromagerie has the best from around the globe, the whole range from local star Stone and Crow, and a belting menu of baguettes and hand-rolled bagels (from Bear Bagels in nearby Coldstream). How about a Reuben with raclette?

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Shop 3, 222 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, cheesemongersophie.com.au Also try: Yarra Valley Dairy is the genuine pasture-to-plate experience, where you can stock up on their trademark Persian-style feta and silky ash-rolled goats cheese, or do simple or comprehensive tastings ($5 or $15 a head respectively) while looking out at the lush paddocks. If your ideal lunch consists of a glass of shiraz and an outrageous toastie, grab their four-cheese heart-stopper stuffed with gruyere, cheddar, that tangy feta and mozzarella for maximum pull.

70-80 McMeikans Road, Yering, yvd.com.au For pantry supplies The fill-your-own-bags-and-containers concept is a boon for travellers who hate plastic detritus, but the huge range at Fill Good Wesburn goes far beyond the typical nuts, spices and snacky dried goods. The fridges are packed with local organic vegetables, yoghurt and jersey milk from Little Yarra Dairy, free-range eggs, and cheeses from Stone and Crow. Finish restocking your weekend pantry with Jam Lady pickles, organic vinegars and raw cacao chocolate made by Tonantzin just across the road. 2874 Warburton Highway, Wesburn, fillgood.com.au

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Also try: If your route takes you through Healesville, its worth dropping into Kitchen and Butcher purely to perv at the glistening cabinets filled with premium meats (Toulouse sausages and ethical rose veal cutlets), international cheeses and wines to go with both.

258 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, kitchenandbutcher.com.au You can sip something from the shelves at Barrique Wine Store in Healesville. Bec Smith For wines from near and far While its not technically a wine bar, you can sit down to drink anything off the shelves of Barrique Wine Store, an unmissable stop for any oenophile. Guided by the expert team, youre guaranteed to get the valleys best bottles without doing the legwork, as well as international heavyweights if youve overdone it on local terroir. Plus, every Friday they invite renowned wine and spirit makers to take over the space for free tasting sessions (5.30-7pm), often backed by local food vendors selling their tacos or dumplings in the firelit courtyard. 260 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, barrique.com.au

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The share-friendly menu at Innocent Bystander in Healesville offers snacks, pizzas and paella. For pizza, paella and pinot Innocent Bystander steps into the breach when you want the winery experience without leaving town. The longtime Healesville hero went down a casual route in 2018 and now has a refreshingly tight focus on wood-fired pizzas crowned with local meats and vegetal treats, big plates of paella, and cheesecake-stuffed waffle cones. If youre not feeling quite so carbcore, veg-driven salads and sides such as wood-roasted beets with Yarra Dairy feta round things out. That big warehouse swallows noise, taking the pressure off families, and you can still get your winery fix by doing a tasting. Or just skip straight to ordering carafes with lunch. 316-334 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, innocentbystander.com.au The newly renovated Launching Place Home Hotel, just off the Warburton Rail Trail. Hugh Davison

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For a pub lunch All good pubs are dog-friendly, but how many provide stalls to tether your horse? The newly renovated Launching Place Home Hotel, sitting just off the stunning Warburton Rail Trail, is the dream find for weary walkers and riders on both hoof and wheel. A huge sunny courtyard looks out the hills and the menu has exceptional breadth  there are good parmas (vegetarian or chicken), but also caper-dressed roasted marrow bones, rabbit terrines and a proper spaghetti marinara. Likewise, you can get around local gin cocktails, wild craft brews and Medhursts excellent rose or stick to the big-name brews on tap. 2170 Warburton Highway, Launching Place, launchingplacehomehotel.com.au Four Pillars is an essential stop for all things gin, including snacks flavoured with the spirit. Hugh Davison For cocktails

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Theres another delicious reason to visit this former gold rush town  and you dont even have to leave your hotel to enjoy it.

As featured in the new regional Victorian restaurants collection. See all stories .

Victorias latest destination diner is not in the most obvious location, but its one that makes a lot of sense. Babae, opening January 25 at Hotel Vera in Ballarat, is on the doorstep of some of Victorias most committed artisan farmers, winemakers and distillers, which it will use to its advantage to wow visitors.

We want to give people a truly regional experience, says executive chef and co-owner Tim Foster, formerly of Kynetons hatted Source Dining. We dont want to be just another restaurant.

Steamed custard with peas, broad beans and tempura zucchini at Babae. Chris Hopkins

In his mission to show Ballarats bounty, every dish features either an ingredient grown by a local farmer or by the same people cooking it for you. Foster and partner Peter Barton have a small plot of land between Ballarat and Bendigo, where they grow peaches, citrus, apples and even the restaurants flowers.

A summer starter of steamed custard is topped with farm-fresh zucchini flowers. Strawberries grown near their property are teamed with white chocolate, sable and basil for dessert.
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Review Eating outPotts Point Potts Points new drop-in, drop-out Snack Kitchen is like raiding the fridge at midnight No rules, no bookings, no requirements. Just fast, fun and familiar food at this new venture from father-and-son duo Maurice and Sylvester Terzini. Terry Durack January 23, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

As featured in the Sydney hit list February 2024 See all stories .

1 / 6 Go-to dish: fritto misto with sauce gribiche and lemon. Brook Mitchell 2 / 6 Snack Kitchen has come up nicely after being seemingly dipped in a can of white paint. Brook Mitchell 3 / 6 Ricotta with chilli and mint, one of Snack Kitchens companatico (ideal with bread) dishes. Brook Mitchell 4 / 6 Polpetti (wagyu beef and pork meatballs) with fennel salad. Brook Mitchell 5 / 6 Freshly sliced LPs mortadella with chilli oil. Brook Mitchell 6 / 6 A framed family photo on the counter at Snack Kitchen. Brook Mitchell Previous Slide Next Slide 14.5 / 20 How we score Mediterranean$$$ A snack is a small portion of food eaten between meals, designed to stave off hunger until you have the real thing. In reality, however, snacks beat the real thing hands-down. So father-and-son duo Maurice and Sylvester Terzini are onto something with their new Snack Kitchen. It couldnt be more different to Icebergs Dining Room & Bar or Bistro George in town. Thats where you go for meals at meal times. This is where you go when you dont want that straitjacket; when you want to eat something light but interesting at a time that suits you, not them.

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And guess what? Snack Kitchen is filled with snackers at 4pm. Again, at 6pm, at 9pm and at 10.30pm. Sylvester Terzini on the floor at Snack Kitchen. Brook Mitchell Its not just the food thats snacky; its the way you can use the place. So far, Ive dropped in late for a glass of wine and chunks of 24-month-old parmigiano reggiano drizzled with balsamic vinegar; been in for dinner straight from work, and turned up once again during a lull between waves of diners at 8pm. The corner space on Macleay Street  last home to Morgan McGlones Sunday  will be here for at least 12 months. Its come up nicely after being seemingly dipped in a can of white paint. Walls, counters, stools, tables and bentwood chairs: all white. White lines of light thread the ceiling. Floor staff, wrapped in white aprons, bring small plates and white napkins.

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The stemmed glasses are one-size-fits-all  for water (Santa Vittoria $7.50), wine, beer and cocktails. Look around and youll see chef Jarrard Martin (Bar Grazie, Uccello, Marys Underground) in the open kitchen, head down, focused and fast. At the bar by the window, Icebergs mixologist Ana Page (aka Miss Martini) is swizzling vermouth on ice or pouring wine. A long, handwritten sheet of brown paper hangs on one wall listing bottles from the producer of the month, Tyrrells. And thats pretty much it, apart from a trail of hand-painted blue roses against the white, for all the world like a woodwork tattoo. So lets snack. Most of the small dishes are what Italians call companatico, or ideal with bread, here, crusty baguette with spreadable butter ($7). Heirloom tomatoes ($18) draped with Olasagasti anchovies and sliced green olives. Freshly sliced LPs mortadella ($12) touched with the sting of chilli oil. Its like raiding the fridge at midnight.

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Freshly sliced mortadella with a drizzle of chilli oil. Just add bread. Brook Mitchell Beef carpaccio ($22) is layers of paper-thin grass-fed tenderloin, coated with the same rich lemony mayonnaise from Harrys Bar, Venice  the thinking being that you cant do better than the original. Briny capers and basil add nuance. Its not all parochially Italian  the Spanish get a look-in with a beautifully made tortilla ($14), a fat wedge of layered potato captured in rich omelette. Of the piatto di mezzo, referring to the traditional middle dishes, the ones between courses, polpetti are nicely dense, somewhat salty meatballs ($22) of wagyu beef and pork, teamed with a small fennel salad. Its also good to see those long, flat Roman beans ($18) get into the act, but the pairing, with chickpeas and warm ricotta, isnt special.

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Polpetti (wagyu beef and pork meatballs) with fennel salad. Brook Mitchell Fritto misto ($24) is a winner, a golden tumble of whitebait, calamari and small curls of sweet prawns, with a spoonful of sauce gribiche, chunky with hard-boiled egg. Wines by the glass arent listed, so a chat with sommelier/co-owner Sylvester is required to uncover a crisp, clean glass of Cascina del Prete Luet Roero Arneis, from Piedmont ($17/$95). It would be easier to just list them, sure, but then everyone would miss out on the human interaction. And thats what Snack Kitchen seems to run on. Dolci could be an affogato of vanilla bean ice-cream doused with Vittoria Coffee espresso and a slug of Brookies divine Mac (macadamia) liqueur ($18). No rules, no bookings, no requirements. Just fast, fun and familiar food, good times, and a sense of this is how things could be, and probably should be. The low-down Snack Kitchen Vibe: All-white, day and night drop-in centre Go-to dish: Fritto misto, gribiche, lemon, $24 Drinks: Peroni, aperitivi, cocktails, plus a lively rotating list of Italo-Australian wines

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Tips & adviceCoffee Yes, queuing for your morning coffee can be chaos, but spare a thought for the barista Ive often watched a barista in full flight in the caffeine peak hour and thought it looked like the worst kind of hell, as workplaces go. Neil McMahon January 23, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Large latte for Ian?

Silence.

Noel? Nathan? Nail?

Its Neil.

No worries, thanks Nick. So goes the tango with the barista, a dance we enjoy or endure depending on the nature of the barista in question, but mostly on how much we are in dire need of the drug we are about to score from them. Our tolerance for the chaos of the daily coffee queue  and it always starts with the name, and its transition to the writing on the coffee lid  varies wildly according to circumstances and personal habits. Are we murderous before our daily caffeine hit? Have we had a sneaky shot at home, making this a mere top-up? Is the barista funny? Is the barista scary? Is the barista stupid? Is the barista hot? (Dont lie, youve been there.) If you opt for a milky coffee, make it a small one. iStock

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All these factors contribute to our tolerance or celebration of the experience, and a frisson of fraught tension delivers the human buzz while we wait for the liquid one. If youve never secretly fallen in love with your barista  or worse, suspected your barista might have the froths for you in a manner entirely unrequited  you havent lived. Waiting for those coffees is a special kind of hell, depending on your role in the rom-com. A quick Google search reveals that barista romances, such as they are, are the stuff of a million stories around the world. Articles such as 10 Ways to Tell Your Barista You Love Them, or to flip the equation, How to Tell if Your Barista Is in Love With You are common, and of course, theres even a bunch of TikToks on the subject. Humphrey Bogart was wrong: your love dramas really do amount to more than a hill of ethically sourced beans in this crazy world. If youve never secretly fallen in love with your barista  or worse, suspected your barista might have the froths for you in a manner entirely unrequited  you havent lived. Amid all this loin-wrenching, froth-dispensing tension, spare a thought for the poor barista, who has to navigate crushes and creeps, crashing bores, cryptic names, crazy orders  and a criminal lack of downtime in which to deal with it all during the morning rush. Ive often watched a barista in full flight in the caffeine peak hour and thought it looked like the worst kind of hell, as workplaces go. Relentless. They have usually been up since sparrows fart, and in our coffee-fuelled nation they are often among the first (and easily most important) person many people engage with every day.

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It seems to me it is less a question of how they get things wrong, and more a question of how they ever get things right. Id be a wreck. Spare a thought for the poor barista, who has to deal with crushes and creeps, crashing bores, cryptic names and crazy orders. iStock Consider what its like from the queue, when you front up at your favourite spot to find yourself in morning coffee hell. That is, stuck behind the person armed with the office coffee order  a long list of soys and almonds and magics and mochas and caps and flats and skinnies and shorts  and you realise you could be waiting 15 minutes for your humble long black. I speak from experience. In the silent language of the coffee queue, this moment is usually translated as Hurry the f--- up. (This clip  which has, as they say, divided the internet  kind of captures it.) Its a jungle out there  Colombian, Brazilian, African, name your poison  but a jungle it surely be.

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Wrong names are the least of it, though they are often the most reliably cute and entertaining part of the experience. There is an entire genre of social media content built around this now, largely driven by the extremely peculiar American relationship with Starbucks, but a popular bit of passing comedy in these parts as well. Just be glad your name is not Arielle. And anyone named Clint will be familiar with the daily adventure they face whenever their name is scribbled in a hurry. Just be grateful they didnt call you Chief. Or worse, Champ. The worst. Compared to these horrors, most of us have it easy. I asked my favourite barista if he and his kind share our fascination with them and the quirks of the trade. He replied: As long as we get the coffee right, thats all you need to worry about Noel. Is it Noel? Ian? Nathan? Whatever. Heres your coffee.

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Rising from paddocks, almost one-third of a 3.5-kilometre viaduct for a new metro rail line to Western Sydney Airport has been completed, about two years before the first passengers will hop on board.

Bearing similarities to the so-called Skytrain built for Sydneys first driverless metro rail line in the citys north-west, the viaduct constructed between Orchard Hills and Luddenham near the foot of the Blue Mountains will comprise 1101 giant concrete slabs and 90 supporting piers.

The viaduct will extend for 3.5 kilometres from Luddenham to Orchard Hills. Credit: Steven Siewert

A station for the Western Sydney Airport line will be wrapped around the viaduct at Luddenham, construction of which is due to start next month.

Located about 13.5 metres above ground, it will be the only station on the 23-kilometre line built on the viaduct. The others will either be underground stations or built into cuttings.
City of Ryde councillors will hold an extraordinary meeting to question why they were not told sooner about defects found in a 900-unit complex when the council was alerted to the problem months ago.

The states building watchdog last week handed property developer Greenland Australia an urgent rectification order to fix serious damage to concrete in the basement of the Lachlans Line apartments at 23 Halifax Street in Macquarie Park.

The Macquarie Park apartments were issued with a rectification order. Credit: Brook Mitchell

The document, published on the NSW Fair Trading website, stated that a draft copy of the order was first issued to Greenland  as well as the local council, owners corporation, the certifier and the Office of the Registrar General  on October 27 last year.

Councillors Penny Pedersen and Bernard Purcell will urge the City of Ryde to prepare a report on the history of the building, and who at the council knew about the defects, at a meeting on Tuesday.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu will pay an official visit to Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan from January 24 through January 30, 2024, said Kazakh Foreign Ministry Spokesman Aibek Smadiarov, Trend reports.

According to Smadiarov, both visits will be held at the invitation of the Tajik and Kyrgyz sides.

"From January 24 to 26, the Kazakh Foreign Minister will engage in discussions with Tajikistan's leadership, represented by Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, in the city of Dushanbe. Additionally, the minister will have meetings with members of the Tajik business community," Smadiarov emphasized.

The spokesman noted that Nurtleu will hold talks with the Kyrgyz leadership and Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubayev in Bishkek on January 28-30.

"The state and prospects of further development of bilateral cooperation will be discussed during the visits. The implementation of agreements reached at the highest levels will be considered, as well as an exchange of views on topical issues of the regional and international agenda will take place. Following the meeting with his Kyrgyz counterpart, it is planned to sign the Program of Cooperation between the Foreign Ministries of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan for 2024-2026," he added.

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Soon, Col8 will have to draw a line in the sand about town names, but just a few more. Joshua Steele of Denhams Beach, up the road from the small South Coast town of Broulee so he should know, explains that while outsiders say Brew-lee (possibly appropriately as there is a small brewery there), locals say Brow-lee.

Rob Ferguson now of St Ives reports that when he visited New Zealand from Wahroonga, I was introduced at a meeting as our guest from Wahro-ongga, a useful alternative pronunciation for poets, e.g. Back o Bourke, way out past the donga, lies the little town of Wahro-ongga.

It must be a hard life sometimes being a train announcer. Graham Martin of Bowral remembers one announcing Warrawee as Where are we.

Brian Byrne of Flinders thinks, Anyone surprised by the rod in Towradgi would also be bemused by the inversions needed to pronounce the nearby suburb Woonona. Both part of Wollongong, which, as youll remember Aunty Jack singing, is girt by sea, on one side.

Phil Edwards of Denistone East thinks: Computer scientists would probably view the road signs to the New Zealand hamlet of OIO [Col8 yesterday] as binary code, and I confess I did two. Each two his own, Col8 says.
This is the last thing these victims need as they try to get their lives back on track and achieve their dream of buying a home, he said. For many families, the great Australian dream has become a great Labor nightmare. Loading A group of families frustrated with the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority have written to the ombudsman asking for an investigation into how quotes for domestic building insurance are handled. The Coalition has followed this up with its own letter backing the proposal. In the former letter, seen by this masthead, the families allege the saga has been a double catastrophe because their claims have been refused, reduced or stretched out. They claim some quotes provided are too low, leading to out-of-pocket expenses later, and say the agency should be more transparent about how its decisions are made. They also argue the process for resolving a disagreement on quotes is not fair and relies too heavily on court action.

We are regular citizens who are simply exhausted and have nowhere to turn other than to give up, which is an injustice. We cant reasonably be expected to simply go to [the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal] in our situation, the letter says. Siddharth Prakash, one of the authors of the letter, said he first approached the insurance authority in 2020 and had provided his own quotes to finish his build, but after eight months was told to go with one of its registered builders instead. He said this led to a lengthy process, across 18 months, and meant the cost of the project kept increasing and eventually led to the builder walking away and leaving the home unfinished. It is pointless getting claimants to provide quotes if the VMIA simply has their own convoluted process, Prakash said. Insurance authority chief executive Andrew Davis said the priority remained getting people into their homes as quickly as possible while using a reputable builder. He said the agency was confident in the builders nominated to complete Porter Davis builds.

VMIA provides home owners with the option of a builder who can complete their home in line with the specifications they originally agreed with Porter Davis, at a price that minimises home owners out-of-pocket costs, he said. When a home owner signs a contract with a rectifying builder, they are signing a fixed-price contract. Under Victorian law, the builder cannot then revise the price unless there is a variation to the scope of work. The authority had an operating deficit of $115.4 million in the 2022-23 financial year, driven by its response to Porter Davis customers and claims lodged after floods. David McKeown, chief executive of Simonds Homes, rejected any suggestion his company was not quoting responsibly, pointing to the fact the ASX-listed builder must have its results audited and published every six months. He said it had so far assisted more than 300 Porter Davis clients, most of whom did not have to pay out-of-pocket expenses, while using 96 per cent of the original suppliers.

Simonds is able to provide the best possible outcome for former Porter Davis customers by using its scale, buying power and a portfolio approach to ensure costs are kept low while still providing the same level of finish and fittings as the original Porter Davis design, McKeown said. Whilst we are aware of some significant discrepancies on quotes provided to customers, we note that this further highlights the benefit of having large-scale builders support customers impacted by unprecedented, large-scale builder collapses such as occurred with Porter Davis. Simonds Homes says it has used its scale to minimise costs on insolvency builds. Credit: Getty Androo Allen, general manager of Cecure, which specialises in insolvency builds, said the company used experienced estimators and held site inspections to maintain accurate quotes. We know stability is vital when things have gone wrong, which is why we are thorough with our quotations, stick to the prices we quote, and work with our vast supply chain to keep costs as low as possible, he said.
A massive search effort by police and State Emergency Services volunteers is stretching into its fifth day with the family of a missing Mundaring man saying they havent given up hope of finding him alive.

John Frylinck, a 70-year-old living with dementia and diabetes, was last seen on Thursday evening at the Sculpture Park in Mundaring while walking the dog with his wife Diana.

WA Police are searching for missing man John Frylinck. Credit: WA Police

Despite a search involving hundreds of people including mounted officers, motorcycle officers, general duty officers, air-wing drone officers, as well as dogs, Frylincks whereabouts remain a mystery.

His son, Jonathan Frylinck, said his father was possibly sleeping rough in the bush with temperatures hitting the mid-30s over the weekend.
The cost of rent is at an all-time high while vacancies are at an all-time low. Let us help you make sense of it all.

A bond can be one of the biggest costs when moving into a new rental. Its usually a months or four weeks rent paid by the tenant and held as security in case a tenant breaks the rental agreement.

Returning the bond at the end of the tenancy isnt always a smooth process  but there are steps renters can take to help make it so.

Tenants can take steps to help get their bond back. Credit: Monique Westermann

In NSW last year, 13.8 per cent of tenants who left a rental property lost the full bond, and about 24 per cent lost part of the bond.

In Victoria in 2021-22, the respective figures were 9 per cent and 25 per cent.
White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Monday said Israel had a right to defend itself but added: We expect them to do so in accordance with international law and to protect innocent people in hospitals, medical staff and patients as well, as much as possible. Loading Israel says Hamas fighters operate from in and around hospitals, which Hamas and medical staff deny. Hamas embeds its operation within and under hospitals and other medical facilities, said Elad Goren of COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry branch that coordinates with the Palestinians. A particular effort led by a dedicated team has been put on making sure that civilians have access to medical care. Residents said the bombardment from air, land and sea was the most intense in the southern sector of Gaza since the war began in October.

Video filmed from afar showed scattered civilians wandering around a ghost city, crowded with tents with abandoned laundry flapping on lines, as gunfire rattled and smoke rose into the sky. Israel said on Tuesday that 24 soldiers had been killed in intensive fighting. The reservists were preparing explosives to demolish two buildings in central Gaza on Monday when a militant fired a rocket-propelled grenade at a tank nearby, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the chief military spokesperson, said. The blast triggered the explosives, causing both two-storey buildings to collapse on the soldiers inside. Israel launched an offensive last week to capture Khan Younis, which it now says is the principal headquarters of the Hamas militants responsible for the October 7 attacks on southern Israel that killed 1200 people, according to Israeli tallies. The newest phase of the war has brought fighting deep into the last corners of the enclave now packed with those who fled bombardment. At least 25,295 Gazans have been killed since October 7, Gaza health authorities said in an update on Monday. Palestinians dig graves at the Nasser hospital in Khan Younis to bury their relatives who were killed in the Israeli bombardment. Credit: AP

The majority of Gazas 2.3 million residents are now penned into Rafah just south of Khan Younis and Deir al-Balah just north of it, crammed into public buildings and camps of tents made from plastic sheets lashed to wooden frames. Lines of cars and donkey carts piled high with belongings pushed south as Gazans sought to flee the bombardments. Buried in hospital grounds At Nasser Hospital, the only major hospital still accessible in Khan Younis and the largest still functioning in Gaza, video showed the trauma ward overwhelmed with wounded being treated on a floor splashed with blood. Ahmed Abu Mustafa, an emergency doctor, said he hadnt slept for 30 hours and was treating 10-11 patients in an intensive care unit with four beds.

Outside, men dug graves within the hospital grounds because it was not safe to venture out to the cemetery. Authorities said 40 people were buried there. In Brussels, Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told reporters the situation in Gaza was out of control and asked the European Union to call for a ceasefire. The health system has collapsed. There is no way for injured Palestinians to be treated in the Gaza strip and they are not able to leave Gaza for treatment outside. Loading Israel says it will not stop fighting until it annihilates Hamas. But Palestinians and some Western military experts say that objective may be unachievable given the groups diffuse structure and deep roots in Gaza, which it has ruled since 2007.

Though Israelis overwhelmingly support the war, a growing number led by relatives of the remaining hostages say the government should do more to reach a deal to free them, even if that means reining in its offensive. About 20 relatives of hostages stormed a parliamentary committee session in Jerusalem on Monday, demanding MPs do more to help free their loved ones. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told a group of relatives there was no truth to reports of a deal to free hostages in a ceasefire. I am saying this as clearly as I can because there are so many incorrect statements which are certainly agonising for you, Netanyahus office quoted him as telling them. Sami al-Zuhri, head of Hamas political unit in exile, said Hamas was open to all initiatives and proposals, but any agreement must be based on ending the aggression and the occupations complete withdrawal from Gaza.

New US-British strikes in Yemen US and British forces have carried out a fresh round of strikes in Yemen, targeting a Houthi underground storage site as well as missile and surveillance capabilities used by the Iran-aligned group against Red Sea shipping, the Pentagon said. The Houthis, who control the most populous parts of Yemen, have said their attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians as Israel strikes Gaza. RAF Armourers prepare a Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4 for air strikes against Houthi military targets in Yemen on Sunday. Credit: UK Ministry of Defence The Houthi attacks have disrupted global shipping and stoked fears of global inflation. They have also deepened concern that fallout from the Israel-Hamas war could destabilise the Middle East.

So far, multiple rounds of strikes over the past month have failed to stop Houthi attacks against shipping. In the latest response, the countries carried out eight strikes, with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada and the Netherlands, according to a joint statement signed by the six nations. These precision strikes are intended to disrupt and degrade the capabilities that the Houthis use to threaten global trade and the lives of innocent mariners, the joint statement said. British Defence Minister Grant Shapps said in a statement the strikes were carried out in self-defence. This action will deal another blow to their limited stockpiles and ability to threaten global trade, Shapps said.
With DeSantis bowing out and Haley surging over the past few weeks, the big question is whether she can beat the overwhelming frontrunner - or at the very least shake things up as they head into the next round of primaries that will determine who runs against Joe Biden in November. Former president Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire. Credit: AP If Trump wins big in New Hampshire - one week after dominating in the Iowa caucuses - he will be seemingly unstoppable as he moves on to the South Carolina race next month, where polls currently suggest he is expected to beat Haley in her home state. That, in turn, would propel him into Super Tuesday on March 5 - when the greatest number of states hold primaries and caucuses - and eventually onto being announced as GOPs nominee at the Republican convention in June. But if Haley gets a good result, it might actually prompt voters who are tired of Trumps drama to rally behind another candidate - and thats exactly what shes banking on.

Loading I voted for Donald Trump twice; I was proud to serve in his administration; and I agree with a lot of his policies - but rightly or wrongly, chaos follows, Haley said on the campaign trail in New Hampshire this week. And we cant have a country in disarray, and a world on fire, and go through four more years of chaos. We wont survive it. For now, the conventional wisdom is that Trumps march towards the White House is all but assured. According to a CNN/University of New Hampshire poll released this week, Trump is the first choice for 50 per cent of likely Republican primary voters, widening his lead over Haley, who has 39 per cent support. Desantis was on a dismal 6 per cent, cementing his decision to drop out of the race.

Loading One by one, Trumps former rivals have also endorsed him: North Dakota governor Doug Burgum; biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy; even US Senator Tim Scott, who Haley appointed to the Senate when she was the governor of South Carolina. Now DeSantis has fallen in line, too - the man Trump mocked for months as Meatball Ron or Ron DeSanctimonious. In doing so, the Florida governor cited a pledge all candidates were required to sign as a condition for taking part in the first Republican debate in August (in which Trump was notably absent): to endorse the chosen nominee. Trump is also looking confident, travelling around New Hampshire stepping up his attacks - and many of them are personal.

Loading He has often cited Haleys given name, Nimarata Nikki Randhawa, as a dog whistle to remind people she was the daughter of Indian immigrants. He refers to her as Birdbrain to insult her intelligence, and has told supporters at his rallies that shes not smart enough to be president. And hes started spreading birther conspiracy theories suggesting she was ineligible to run for president because her parents were not US citizens when Haley was born. Haley, however, has taken it in her stride. Since announcing her candidacy last year, the 52-year-old has campaigned on the notion that its time to get America back on track.

Loading In addition to calling for a new generational leader she has also pushed for fixed term limits in Congress, and mental competency tests for politicians over the age of 75. But her most potent argument is when she cites polls showing shes the only Republican in the race who could beat Biden in a head to head match-up. One Wall Street Journal poll put her ahead with a 17 point margin. As Haley explained to voters this week: Thats more than just the presidency - thats getting everything back on track, from the House, the Senate, governorships, school boards - all those things. Wed walk into DC with a mandate. As much as Trump is dominating this contest, there is a small path for Haley to shake up the race.

Like Iowa, New Hampshire is whiter and more rural than the average US state, but almost 40 per cent of its electorate are independents. These voters tend to be more moderate - and they will be able to cast a vote in the ballot. New Hampshire also has a popular moderate Republican governor, Chris Sununu, who endorsed Haley over Trump. All these factors could potentially benefit the former UN ambassador, whose appeal is largely confined to moderate and college-educated voters. Whats more, New Hampshire is a state thats known for its contrarian streak and election surprises.

In 2008, for instance, George W Bush won the Iowa caucuses and was the overwhelming frontrunner heading into New Hampshire - only to face a massive upset by John McCain. Similarly, in 2008, Barack Obama shocked the Democratic establishment by winning Iowa against Hillary Clinton, but was narrowly defeated by her in the New Hampshire primaries. Could it be Nikki Haleys moment to shine? Im used to people underestimating me. Its always fun, she said as she met with voters at a diner minutes after DeSantis announcement.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday, January 20th, 2023, at approximately 05:30 PM, the Central Police Dispatch of Sint-Maarten received multiple calls reporting a stabbing incident in the Down Street area of Philipsburg. In response, officers from the Uniform Division, detectives, and ambulance personnel were dispatched to the location.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered a male victim who had sustained a stab wound to his upper body. Immediate first aid was administered by ambulance personnel at the location, and the victim was promptly transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for further medical treatment. The victim is currently in serious but stable condition.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident arose from an argument between the suspect and the victim, who were purportedly friends. The altercation occurred during a beach party and escalated into a physical confrontation, resulting in the victim being stabbed by the suspect.

Later in the evening, officers successfully apprehended the suspect, identified as S.L.M. The suspect was taken into custody and is currently being held at the police station for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.

The police department would like to assure the community that this incident is being thoroughly investigated. We urge anyone with additional information related to this incident to come forward and assist the police in their efforts.

As the case progresses, further updates will be provided to the public. The police force remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the residents of Sint-Maarten.

KPSM Press Release.
PHILIPSBURG:--- In response to the growing need for glasses, the Sint Maarten Lions Club did a follow-up, Sight Project was held from January 1719, 2024, 153 people in total were able to receive this care, with a focus on a range of students from various schools, teachers, and seniors who were given the chance to have their eyes examined. The Sint Maarten Lions Club members were thrilled to carry out this project to assist even more students who may have visual impairments.

Lion Felix Richard, the president of the Sint Maarten Lions Club, commended his members for their commitment. "Kindness to Others is Service to Ourselves" is this year's club theme, which Lion Felix Richards continued to champion. He stated that helping those in need is at the heart of the club. The club also wants to share its findings to raise awareness of this expanding need and keep helping where it can. The VOSH team, Nurse Ruby, and Nurse Emma, as well as the Sint Maarten Lions Club, would like to thank them for helping to make this project a success.

The Sint Maarten Lions Club extends its gratitude and appreciation to the entire community, participating schools, VOSH Ohio, Belair Beach Hotel, Elle Si Belle Transport, MotorWorld, MECYS -Inspection for their support and success while we continue to carry out our mission, one project at a time.
PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten and Saba's vibrant Caribbean culture, creativity, and craftsmanship took center stage during the first-ever Beer, Art, and Music (BAM) Festival held at the Seaview Beach Hotel on January 19th and 20th. The event, organized to showcase the best of locally made products and island talent, featured an impressive lineup of craft beers, visual arts, and diverse musical performances.

Craft beer enthusiasts were treated to 9 unique and flavorful brews, including beers from Pelikaan Brewery, SXM Beers, and the new Saba Cloud Top Beer. The festival served as a platform to promote these exceptional products, fostering a sense of pride and support for the promising craft beer industry in St. Maarten and Saba.

In addition to the celebration of craft beverages, the festival highlighted the rich tapestry of local artistry. Attendees experienced a diverse range of artistic expressions, from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted candles, body products, and jewelry. The emphasis on locally made products aimed to stimulate the growth of the local creative economy.

The two-day extravaganza featured engaging workshops, including "Sip and Paint a Pint" guided by the talented Jolie Duzon, and "Sip & Paint Your View" led by Saban artist Mary Thielman. The Festival also had representation from Sabas Sea & Learn Foundation, whose roots stem from its month-long environmental awareness program and also include cultural heritage projects and art workshops.

The festival's musical program showcased an eclectic mix, ranging from the melodic tones of the steelpan and the enchanting sounds of the African Kora to the beats of DJ Prince and live performances by Squall Rock Band, In the Mix Band from Saba, and One White Chic.

Event-goers also enjoyed a myriad of activities such as beach volleyball, a beer, art & music trivia, a live mural creation by Nica Labelle, and beer and food pairings, providing an immersive and interactive experience for all attendees.

The festival experienced a dynamic turnout, reaching a notable peak on Saturday afternoon when live bands graced the stage. The Boardwalk in Philipsburg, home to the Seaview Beach Hotel and the focal point of the event, witnessed a significant surge in foot traffic, successfully achieving one of the festival's primary objectives - drawing attention and a diverse crowd to both the boardwalk and the event.

The Beer, Art, and Music Festival played a crucial role in supporting the local economy, aligning with the principles of the orange economy which refers to all business rooted in creativity, involving things like art, culture, research, science, and technology. By showcasing and promoting local talent in the realms of craft brewing, visual arts, and music, the festival contributed to the cultural and economic development of St. Maarten and Saba. The event brought together Caribbean cruise ship passengers, island visitors, and the local community, fostering a sense of community and pride in the unique offerings of the region.

As the Boardwalk in Philipsburg continues to witness increased live events, the Beer, Art, and Music Festival stands out as a shining example of how cultural initiatives can contribute to the revival and flourishing of local economies. The success of this inaugural event underscores the importance of continued support for the orange economy, recognizing the economic value of cultural and creative industries in the region.

The Beer, Art & Music Festival will be an annual event and will return for 2025 with the support of its partners Saba Tourist Bureau, Pelikaan Brewery, SXM Beer, Sea & Learn Foundation, the inspiration behind Saba Cloud Top Beer, Makana Ferry and Aqua Mania Adventures. For more information on the event and how to participate contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or follow @beerartmusicfestival
MAHO:--- Mr. Delroy de Lain has joined the foundation Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Sint Maarten under contract as Program Manager, where he will coordinate a variety of research, education, and conservation projects.

Mr. de Lain recently obtained his masters degree (M.Sc.) in Global Business & Sustainability from the Rotterdam School of Management following an undergraduate degree in Global Project and Change Management with a minor in Business Administration. He has a career background in research, sales, and marketing. With Dutch Caribbean heritage, Mr. De Lain is pleased to be working on Sint Maarten and contributing to environmental conservation in the region. He noted, I am beyond excited to embark on this journey with EPIC, and to further drive sustainable change in a region where it is of utmost importance, at a crucial time.

Ms. Margot Mesnard will continue to work remotely with the organization as a Project Support Officer, applying her grant writing skills to build on existing projects as well as establish new initiatives.

Board Member and Program Director Natalia Collier noted, We are really happy to welcome Delroy to the EPIC team and, with his support, look forward to increasing our impact through various projects, including eco-labels, plastic repurposing, biological research, advocacy, and environmental awareness.

Those interested in environmental education programs, particularly schools, are encouraged to contact the foundation to schedule a presentation or field trip. In addition, EPIC welcomes support and volunteers for its education, research, and conservation projects.

EPIC would like to thank Het Cultuurfonds (Netherlands), Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied, and Jadore SXM for their recent donations, supporting conservation and education projects through increased staffing capacity. The Foundation looks to a promising future under the continued guidance of this team of professionals, building on the legacy of previous leadership.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Deputy Regional Director of the Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States, of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Nick Hartmann will pay a visit to Astana, said Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Aibek Smadiarov, Trend reports.

According to Smadiarov, the visit will take place on January 22-25.

"The visit will include discussions with Deputy Chairman of the Senate of Kazakhstan's Parliament Olga Perepechina, and the leadership of the ministries: Foreign Affairs, National Economy, Ecology and Natural Resources, Culture, and Information. The visit will also include meetings with the leadership of Kazakhstan Agency of International Development KazAID," he said.

Moreover, Smadiarov mentioned that it is planned to discuss the issues of cooperation between Kazakhstan and UNDP, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals until 2030, as well as the Country Program (CPD) for 2021-2025 and the Agreement on Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2021-2025.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Destructive ideology poses a great threat to Kazakhstan, said President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during an extended meeting of the Ministry of Internal Affairs board, Trend reports.

"Low legal literacy leads to serious detrimental consequences. This ultimately hinders the development of the country and affects the national image. Vandalism in public places is a confirmation of this. Destructive ideology poses a great threat, especially for the younger generation, who follow pseudo-heroes and dubious ideas," Tokayev said.

According to him, social networks are spreading materials that encourage young people to commit illegal actions.

"Some even idolize those who openly violate laws. It's crucial for citizens to denounce injustice, fostering a robust resistance against any wrongdoing. We must oppose efforts to justify destructive, antisocial behavior and counter legal nihilism. Respecting the law should be seen as a fundamental trait of a responsible citizen. This responsibility falls not only on state entities but also on every citizen. To make a long story short, ensuring the rule of law and order is the main condition for building a Just Kazakhstan," the president added.

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We need stronger, clearer legislation which will get retailers to commit to being long term partners, paying growers a fair price and buying British when in season. We also need to impose rules to prevent legislation avoidance by retailers by inserting service providers into the chain and for Government to take a strong line on protocol breaches.
Step forward Katharine Birbalsingh, headteacher of Michaela Community School in Wembley, known as Britains strictest headteacher. True or not, this is to miss the point about what drives her. Ms Birbalsingh not only runs a hugely successful school, she seeks to ensure that the ethnically diverse students are not divided along religious or racial lines. To that end, the school instituted a ban on prayer.
This swish Trafalgar Square Chinese is overseen by two alum of Hakkasan: suave restaurant director Alan Tang and chef Chee Hwee Tong, who won the original Hanway Place Hakkasan its Michelin star. High standards of both service and cooking, then, are pretty much guaranteed, but so are high prices. Still, if you cant push the boat out on New Years, when can you? Tables of four or more must order an eight-course set menu (128) while smaller groups are free to pick and choose from the likes of pork belly with abalone in premium oyster sauce and a kumquat and coffee dessert shaped into a yin-yang dragon shape. The restaurant will be decorated with Chinese red lanterns, an illuminated 10-metre dragon and firecracker displays while there will be free toys for kids. Note that tables are being served in three sittings at 5, 8 and 10.30pm.
The court heard Lennon admits being present in The Strand but disputes that he failed to leave the area. He is also set to challenge the legality of police issuing the dispersal order, including whether he was properly served with the document. Robinson appeared in court last December - after being charged - in a bid to overturn bail conditions which banned him from entering London except to attend court hearings and meetings with his legal team. He argued his human rights are being infringed by the bail conditions, preventing him from carrying out his activist work and attending meetings in the capital with campaign groups and journalists. A judge rejected the application, citing fears of further offences being committed, but agreed Lennon could travel to London for pre-arranged meetings with political groups and media organisations  provided The Mets public order unit agree the visits in advance. A video of the incident at the protest, on November 26 last year, showed Lennon arguing with police officers as they told him to leave the area. He was also apparently pepper-sprayed by police during his arrest, when he was also handcuffed. After being released from police custody, he said on social media the bail conditions were a blatant abuse of my human rights.
In 2020, the Bulletin set the hands of the clock at 100 seconds to midnight and this remained unchanged until 2023, when it moved to 90 seconds. The clock had been set at two minutes in 2018 and left unchanged in 2019. It was originally set at seven minutes to midnight.
The mayor complained that a new electoral system in London could threaten his hopes of re-election. The cynical way in which the government have brought in major changes to the way Londoners vote to make it easier for them to win, but have done barely anything to ensure voters know about the changes, risks damaging democracy in May, he said.
He said: They will have a meeting with them and they will talk to them and they know everything and David Cameron said that hes coming to Israel, he will go to Egypt and he will go to Qatar too.
Referring to comments by Mr Sunak, Labour former shadow attorney general Baroness Chakrabarti said: I would suggest that instead of there being this sort of telepathic connection between any individual leader and the will of the people, in a constitutional democracy it is Parliament that will reflect, to the best of its ability, the will of the people, and certainly represent people in this country, but also champion the rule of law.
The culture secretary has called out the broadcaster for impartiality in its reporting - citing an example where an attack on a Gaza hospital was wrongly attributed to Israel. The missile was later shown to be from a misfiring Hamas rocket.
"Our thoughts are with her family at this time, and we will work to provide support to them and to co-workers who are processing this tragic news."
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 22. Kazakhstan and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) considered issues of cooperation on the further development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or Middle Corridor), Trend reports.

This topic was discussed between the Vice Minister of Transport of Kazakhstan Talgat Lastayev and representatives of the IFC.

The parties also discussed issues of cooperation on the development of some Kazakh airports, dry ports and logistics parks, the construction of a third checkpoint on the border of Kazakhstan with China, a container hub in the port of Aktau and the Sarzha Multifunctional Marine Terminal, as well as the reconstruction of a number of highways.

"In the next 5 years, about $40 billion will be required to implement all the tasks set in the transport industry, including increasing transit capacity. The Ministry has formed a pool of 36 projects in the fields of railway and maritime transport, aviation and roads", Lastayev said.

As he noted, as part of these measures, work is underway with Abu Dhabi Ports, Lianyungang Port, PSA, FESCO, COSCO Shipping, Rhenus, SOVICO, Terminal Holding, TAV Holding and others.

At the end of the meeting, its participants expressed hope for further fruitful cooperation in the field of transport.

The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor.

The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe.

The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.
But if we are just resetting to the status quo before October 7 in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, were not interested in that conversation.
Starkville DIY and the Starkville Area Arts Council host bands from Starkville and beyond on Saturday.
A number of 19 Syrian and Iraqi citizens who entered Romania illegally from the border with Bulgaria were detected by the Coast Guard using drones, some of the migrants were in a forest near the village of Faurei and others in the Ostrov area.

"They detected ten people in the forest near the village of Faurei, who were moving from the border with Bulgaria. Their surveillance continued in order to identify the caravan that would have facilitated the illegal crossing of the state border. As no persons were noticed in the vicinity of the border, the border guards proceeded to summon and detain them, determining that they were persons without identity documents and who did not speak Romanian. Following the investigations, it turned out that they are Syrian and Iraqi citizens (...). Given the low temperature, about -14 degrees, prolonged exposure to the cold could endanger the lives of these people," the release reads, agerpres reports.

A similar situation occurred in the Ostrov area, with Coast Guard workers detaining nine people near Esechioi who had no identity documents and did not speak Romanian.All the people who crossed the state border illegally were taken back by the border authority of the neighbouring country, under the readmission agreement between Romania and Bulgaria.The border police are investigating both cases, under the coordination of the Public Prosecutor's Office of the Court of Appeal of Constanta, under the aspect of committing the crime of fraudulent crossing of the state border.
ForMin Odobescu attending Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels

Minister of Foreign Affairs Luminita Odobescu is participating on Monday in the meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the EU Member States - the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC), in Brussels, informs the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) in a press release sent to AGERPRES.

Minister Odobescu is also meeting NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

The agenda of the meeting will include Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, as well as an informal breakfast with Egypt's Foreign Affairs Minister Sameh Shoukry, in preparation of the 10th session of the EU-Egypt Association Council (23 January 2024), as well as a comprehensive exchange of views on the current difficult situation in the Middle East. There will be both formal discussions in EU-27 format, and also informal, separate discussions, with the participation of several foreign ministers in the region.
The minister of foreign affairs, Luminita Odobescu, on Monday told AGERPRES that Romania continues to support the two-state solution, in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

While attending the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels, the head of Romanian diplomacy participated in a meeting with the Israeli and Palestinian foreign ministers and ministers from the region, namely from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and with the secretary general of the League of Arab States.

She spoke of the EU's perspective on the conflict.

"For us, a close coordination is very important, both with partners from the region, but also with partners from the US, who are, in turn, very involved in finding solutions for the crisis in the Middle East," said Odobescu.

She indicated that, during the meeting, she reiterated her firm condemnation of the October 7 attacks.

"I supported Israel's right to self-defence, in line with the international humanitarian law. We discussed the particularly difficult humanitarian situation in Gaza. I presented Romania's efforts in this regard and requested, together with other foreign ministers, the release by Hamas of all hostages, without preconditions," the Romanian minister pointed out.

At the same time, the Romanian official said that the discussions addressed the prevention of the regional expansion of the conflict and the prospects of reaching a peace, the need for close coordination at the European level being emphasized to maintain contacts with the Palestinian Authority and Israel. The objective of the discussions, Odobescu showed, was to overcome the current crisis and "relaunch, when it will be possible, the peace process based on the two-state solution."
ForMin Odobescu, Vietnamese counterpart Bui Thanh Son on new cooperation opportunities

Foreign Affairs minister Luminita Odobescu had a bilateral meeting on Sunday with her Vietnamese counterpart, Bui Thanh Son, on the sidelines of the official visit to Romania that the latter is conducting as part of the delegation led by Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a press release sent to AGERPRES.

"The two sides welcomed the current state of bilateral relations, established 74 years ago, relations that have experienced a marked dynamic especially in recent years. The high officials also stressed the need to continue to strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including between the foreign ministries of the two countries. In this regard, minister of Foreign Affairs Luminita Odobescu reiterated the commitment to identify new opportunities for cooperation, in line with the real potential, in areas such as trade, culture and education, digitization, cyber security, medicine and pharmacy," informs MAE.

The Vietnamese side thanked Romania for its active support during the EU Council Presidency in 2019, materialized with the entry into force of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.

Minister Odobescu assured, according to the cited source, that Romania will remain a constant supporter of the strengthened cooperation between the EU and Vietnam. In this context, she stressed the importance of a sustained dialogue to address contemporary challenges, including those in the Indo-Pacific area, where Vietnam is an important player.

"The two counterparts exchanged views on the current regional and global context, with a focus on existing crises and conflicts, and discussed ways in which the two countries can work together to address common challenges. At the same time, they expressed confidence that the official visit to Romania of the Vietnamese prime minister will mark an important step in the overall consolidation of political and sectoral cooperation between the two countries," the press release further says.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, January 22. Kazakhstan's Qazaq Air will resume flights from its Ust-Kamenogorsk city to Russian Novosibirsk on January 25, 2024, Trend reports.

Flights will operate twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays, as scheduled. Connecting flights from Astana to Novosibirsk via Ust-Kamenogorsk are also launched.

"This air service will contribute to the development of our economic relations between countries as well as the promotion of tourism," the company said.

The flights will be operated on Canadian-made De-Havilland Dash 8-Q400 new-generation aircraft.

Qazaq Air is an interregional airline created by the National Welfare Fund of Kazakhstan, Samruk-Kazyna JSC, to improve the safety and accessibility of interregional air traffic in Kazakhstan and the border areas of neighboring countries.
If my file public, truth about vaccines would be 100% clear:Health Ministry had no involvement (USR's Voiculescu)

The leader of Save Romania Union (opposition's USR) Bucharest, Vlad Voiculescu, says that, according to his information, there is "no progress" in his file on anti-COVID vaccines and that, if it were made public, the truth would become "100% clear".

The former Health minister, answering a question on how he sees the fact that Pfizer has sued the Government of Romania, underlined that these contracts were concluded without consulting the ministry by former liberal prime minister Florin Citu and former chairman of the National Committee for Coordination of Activities on Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, Valeriu Gheorghita.

According to Voiculescu, former prime minister Florin Citu and Valeriu Gheorghita should be asked why not enough vaccines were used and why some of them were not donated or resold.

"I couldn't do these things myself until April. What I am saying is very clear: the contracts were concluded without the Ministry of Health at that time and it is something that can be seen, it is proven in the file," said the former Health minister.

Vlad Voiculescu added that in the last month and a half he had "no interaction with prosecutors", but that he had access to the file. He also said he would send a memo to the prosecutor in which it would clearly show that he was not among the people in charge of vaccination.

According to him, in February 2021, the Ministry of Health "was completely removed from the scheme", and he learned in March about the purchases made with the written consent of prime minister Florin Citu.

Government spokesman Mihai Constantin said on Thursday that Bucharest authorities were notified last December by Pfizer about the opening of a litigation to recover money, given the failure to complete the purchase by the Romanian side of 28 million doses of anti-COVID vaccine. The first term will take place in February.
Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu said on Monday, before attending the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) meeting in Brussels, that EU states must use "all means" to help Ukraine in war.

"At this crucial moment it is important to use all the means at our disposal to continue to support Ukraine," said the head of Romanian diplomacy, agerpres reports.

She said that "Ukraine must remain a priority on the European Union's agenda.""We must quickly implement very important steps for a predictable support to Ukraine, namely to establish the support fund for Ukraine, to unlock the tranche of the European Peace Facility, to reach a political agreement at next week's European Council meeting on the Ukraine Facility and to have a predictable timetable for the accession of Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova," she added.Luminita Odobescu said that "it is important to strengthen the strategic communication of the EU states, to counter Russian narratives and to continue the pressure on Russia.""This is why Romania supports a new package of sanctions against Russia," said the Romanian minister.On the Middle East crisis, she called for the immediate release of hostages. She also said that "the serious humanitarian situation in Gaza worries us all."Thus, Odobescu said that the Peace Plan in the region can only be implemented when the aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians are met, namely "on the one hand, the needs of security, on the other hand, the needs of statehood and sovereignty." The Romanian minister said that, as far as this dossier is concerned, Romania is coordinating with the US and with partners in the region.
President Klaus Iohannis said on Monday, during the meeting with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, that Romania supports the expansion and diversification of the agenda of the EU-Vietnam, respectively EU-ASEAN relationship, in order to strengthen political cooperation on topics of global interest.

The Romanian President received Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the Cotroceni Palace, on the occasion of his visit to our country. The most recent meeting between the two dignitaries took place in September 2023, in New York, on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations' General Assembly.

"The President of Romania supported the exploitation of the true potential of Romanian-Vietnamese economic relations, welcoming the organization, in the context of the Vietnamese dignitary's visit to our country, of an economic forum. Also, President Klaus Iohannis emphasized the interest in the further development of cooperation bilateral relations in the field of education, as an essential part on which the bilateral dialogue is based. In terms of the relationship with the European Union, the President of Romania showed that our country supports the expansion and diversification of the agenda of the EU-Vietnam, respectively EU-ASEAN relationship, in order to strengthen political cooperation on topics of global interest", informs the Presidential Administration.

The two officials emphasized the importance of the relationship between Romania and Vietnam, this state being "one of the traditional and important partners" of our country in Southeast Asia. President Iohannis pleaded for the consolidation of high-level dialogue and sectoral cooperation, appreciating that the visit of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh represents "a new opportunity to boost" the development of bilateral relations in all areas of common interest.

During the discussions, topics on the international agenda were also addressed, including Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the South China Sea, the conflict in Gaza, the situation generated by the Houthi attacks on maritime transport in the Red Sea and the fight against climate change.

President Iohannis presented the support measures adopted by Romania since the outbreak of Russia's war against Ukraine. Regarding the situation in the Middle East, he reiterated our country's support for the two-state solution.

"Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh confirmed the importance that the Vietnamese authorities attach to the relations between Romania and Vietnam, based on the strong ties that have marked the more than seven decades of diplomatic relations. The Vietnamese official highlighted the potential for development and diversification of the fields of cooperation bilaterally, in addition to consolidating high-level political dialogue, evoking existing cooperation opportunities in the economic and educational fields. The Vietnamese Prime Minister thanked Romania for its support during our country's Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which was decisive for the finalization of the negotiations of the EU-Vietnam agreements on free trade and investment protection", states the Presidential Administration.
The Ministry of Finance (MF) borrowed on Monday 343.1 million RON from the banks, through an issue of benchmark state bonds, with a residual maturity of 169 months and an average return of 6.43% per year, according to data made public by the National Bank of Romania (BNR).

The nominal value of the issue was 500 million RON, and the banks invested 453.1 million RON.

An additional tender is scheduled for Tuesday, through which the state wants to attract another 75 million RON at the yield set on Monday for the bonds.

The Ministry of Finance has planned for January 2024 loans from commercial banks in the amount of 5.6 billion RON, to which the amount of 720 million RON can be added through additional sessions of non-competitive offers, related to bond tenders.

The total amount, of 6.32 billion RON, is 1.795 billion RON higher than the one that was scheduled in December 2023, of 4.525 billion RON, and will be intended for refinancing the public debt and financing the state budget deficit.
Moldova's Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu will be paying a working visit to Bucharest on Tuesday to meet his Romanian counterpart Luminita Odobescu and other state officials, according to the MOLDPRES news agency.

According to Moldova's Foreign Ministry, Popescu and Odobescu are expected to discuss further developing and deepening the bilateral partnership between Moldova and Romania as well as the next steps in Moldova starting accession negotiations with the European Union.

Also, Moldova's recent progress with the implementation of the remaining actions in three recommendations of the European Commission will be detailed.

In December 2023, the European Council recommended the start of accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova.
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu said on Monday that he encourages as many Romanian and Vietnamese companies as possible to be present on the markets of the two countries, saying that a steady increase in bilateral trade is in view, leading to a doubling of the volume by 2030.

"I had a very constructive discussion today with my Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh, which was followed by a plenary meeting of government delegations, both focused on economic cooperation. We focused not so much on what has been and exists today, but more on what we can and want to build next. We have set a high level of ambition to increase trade and facilitate investment in projects of common interest. We are both convinced that the value of trade does not reflect the true potential of the two countries. That is why we are determined to aim for a steady increase in bilateral trade, leading to a doubling of the volume by 2030," Ciolacu said at the Romania - Vietnam Business Forum, which he attended together with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, who is on an official visit to Romania, agerpres reports.

Marcel Ciolacu said that only by encouraging as many Romanian and Vietnamese companies as possible to be present on the markets of the two countries will it be possible to advance towards the central bilateral objective of supporting the access of enterprises in economic areas of interest to third markets.Ciolacu said that Romania is interested in developing partnerships with the Vietnamese side in the pharmaceutical area, where the Antibiotice Iasi plant is collaborating, adding that in the agri-food area there is also a huge potential for the development of large-scale projects, so that exports of products and animals to the Vietnamese market can be increased."I encourage Vietnamese investors to take advantage of the special opportunities that Romania offers and will continue to develop. Strong trade relations between Vietnam and the European Union on the basis of the Free Trade Agreement cannot bypass the Black Sea gateway to the European market, namely the port of Constanta. The port of Constanta and the Danube ports will be of essential significance on the developing transcontinental routes between Asia and Europe. That is why I have signalled the need for the rapid conclusion of cooperation agreements between the ports of Constanta and Galati with ports in Vietnam, such as Hai Phong," said Prime Minister Ciolacu.
Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh said the meeting with his Romanian counterpart Marcel Ciolacu was "very successful" and said "we are responsible to do better in the future for friendship, cooperation between the two countries."

"On behalf of the party, of the Vietnamese state, we thank Romania, the Romanian people, who helped Vietnam in the 75 years of relations, established on February 3, 1950. Romania has always been close to Vietnam, especially in difficult moments, during the struggle for independence, the reunification of the country, Romania helped Vietnam with what we needed. We appreciate, thank you for this help, we are responsible for doing better in the future for the friendship, the cooperation between the two countries, for the prosperity of our countries, for the happiness of the two peoples," premier Pham Minh Chinh said during the joint declarations held, on Monday, at the Victoria Palace, together with the prime minister Marcel Ciolacu, agerpres reports.

The Vietnamese prime minister recalled the importance of the period he has previously spent in Romania, saying that he has unforgettable memories in our country.



He added that Romania is a very important part of his life and that after 75 years with many profound and sweeping changes, one thing that does not change is the feelings.



The Vietnamese gov't's head stressed that the meeting he had with his Romanian counterpart was "a very successful one", and recalled the high level exchange of delegations, the economic cooperation between the two countries, with a very dynamic outcome, the cooperation in education, culture, places.



The high official thanked Romania for the support given to Vietnam during the COVID-19 pandemic and for the cooperation and mutual support at the level of international forums.



"In order to strengthen political trust regarding the economy and investments, the two sides will capitalize on bilateral mechanisms, especially the Joint Intergovernmental Committee. We are fully implementing the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the EU. I propose that Romania also convince other EU countries to ratify the agreement of investments between Vietnam and the EU," the Vietnamese prime minister emphasised.



The Vietnamese premier highlighted the importance of developing bilateral relations in the fields of education, culture, sports, agriculture, science, technology and economy.



Premier Pham Minh Chinh said that his country is willing to develop cooperation between the universities of the two countries, in IT, veterinary, agriculture, alongside science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, green economy, circular economy, agriculture, workforce, local cooperation.
After meeting Prime Minister of Vietnam Pham Minh Chinh in Bucharest on Monday, Chairman of the Romanian Senate Nicolae Ciuca said that trade between the two countries is worth approximately USD 440 million, with potential for a boost.

"I have just finished the bilateral activity with the prime minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. It was an activity that took place at the invitation of the prime minister of Romania. We discussed the consolidation of bilateral relations and areas of interest (...) Between Romania and Vietnam there is trade worth about USD 440 million and, of course, the potential can encourage us to identify those opportunities to increase our commercial exchanges. Of course, it is important to balance them," Ciuca said after a Senate meeting.

He added that special interest was attached to education, with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh wanting to continue relations in this field, as he is himself a university graduate in Romania.

"We have continued with education. We all know that the prime minister of Vietnam completed his university studies in our country and insisted very much on the continuation of these relations in the field of education (...) and at the parliamentary level. We told him that we would support, by political decision, at the parliamentary level, the documents signed by the government," Ciuca said.

Pham Minh Chinh previously on Monday met Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, and President Klaus Iohannis.
Vietnamese PM to meet with President Iohannis, PM Ciolacu, participate in economic forum

Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh, on an official visit to Romania until Monday, will meet with prime minister Marcel Ciolacu and president Klaus Iohannis and will participate in a bilateral economic forum, and several documents will be signed in the framework of a memorandum of economic and cultural cooperation, told Agerpres.

"On Monday, at the level of an official visit, with the related protocol, we will host the visit of a delegation led by the Vietnamese prime minister Pham Minh Chinh, a delegation that includes the ministers of investment, trade, education, the minister of science and technology and the governor of the National Bank from Pyongyang," Mihai Constantin, government spokesman, stated last week.

On Monday morning, the official reception of the prime minister of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, is scheduled at the Victoria Palace, where he will have a meeting with prime minister Marcel Ciolacu. There will also be a meeting between the two official delegations. Several bilateral documents will be signed.

The two prime ministers will hold a joint press conference.

From 12:00, the Romanian and Vietnamese prime ministers will participate in the Romania-Vietnam Economic Forum at the Romanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, followed by an official lunch at Victoria Palace, offered by the Romanian prime minister in honor of the Vietnamese prime minister.

From 15:00, prime minister Pham Minh Chinh will be received by president Klaus Iohannis at Cotroceni Palace.
David Eisenhower, a security guard at St. Mary's Hospital in East St. Louis, was standing on the hospital parking lot when the skies turned red before the time for sunrise.

"It was like a flare," he said. "There was a massive red that lit up the whole sky like broad daylight." It was then that the concussion from the explosion staggered him. He could hear glass breaking. Eisenhower said he imagined that what had happened was like a nuclear blast.

The emergency rooms of both East St. Louis hospitals were clogged with persons waiting for treatment. Daniel Hicks, administrator of Christian Welfare Hospital, said that most of the patients came from their homes.

Service employees who are striking at Christian Welfare laid down their picket signs. They were standing and talking and watching the special hospital emergency team work with the injured.

"It looked like a sunrise at first then after 30 seconds, flames," said Ron Taylor, 6532 Alder Avenue, Berkeley. He is one of the service employees ""and was driving across the bridge at East St. Louis to take up his strike duties when the blast rolled out in flame and sound at about 6:20 a.m.
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Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Lucas Kunce has begun the new year much in the same way he ended the old one, picking up cash and endorsements.

Kunce is the clear front-runner to win the August primary and face incumbent U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley in the November general election.

The American Federation of Government Employees announced last week that it is endorsing Kunce. The union represents workers at federal agencies, including the Social Security Administration and the departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security.

In a statement, Kunce said he is proud to be backed by the hardworking Missourians who serve our veterans, our seniors and our national security.

This latest endorsement adds even more organized labor backing to Kunces run.

He previously has secured the backing of numerous groups, including the Missouri AFL-CIO; Missouri State Council of Fire Fighters; Service Employees International Union; Missouri Council of Machinists; the Building and Construction Trades Council of both St. Louis and Kansas City; and the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, the states largest private-sector guild.

When it comes to raising money, Kunce's campaign is reporting that in 2023, the candidate raised $5.4 million, the largest amount raised in a non-election year by a U.S. Senate challenger in Missouri. The 2023 campaign reports from U.S. Senate and House candidates are due to be filed Jan. 31 with the Federal Election Commission.

In the Democratic primary in August, Kunce will face state Sen. Karla May of St. Louis and Columbia activist December Harmon.

St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell pulled out of the race in November to run in the 1st Congressional District Democratic primary against incumbent Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis.
ST. LOUIS  Brian Beckley was out on the streets for a night and desperate for a place to stay. Hed just walked out of his uncles south city residence, where hed repeatedly clashed with his uncles boyfriend.

That night, he met someone who told him their landlord had a room for just $50 a week, including utilities. The next day, he moved into a room in the basement of an aging single-family house in the citys Patch neighborhood. He didnt know much else about the place or his new landlord, Dara Daugherty. He never signed a lease.

I was satisfied, Beckley, 41, said in a recent interview at the home, which he shares with four other roommates, including his ailing mother, whom he moved in with him four months ago. It was a roof over my head.

The house on Virginia Avenue is one of 40 condemned properties in south St. Louis that Daugherty and her associates illegally rented to vulnerable people by offering them low rent for homes with unlivable conditions, including some without heat, water or electricity, according to a lawsuit the city filed last week.

The suit describes a suite of horror stories: crumbling houses, drug overdoses, suspicious deaths and multiple violent assaults, including stabbings, carjackings, shootings and a kidnapping.

Beckley, and another tenant who declined to be named, told a more nuanced story. They were in a bind when they started renting there, they had nowhere else to go and the house, which was old but had working utilities, wasnt so bad, they said. Tenants in two other Daugherty properties in the lawsuit, on Louisiana Avenue and on Compton Avenue, declined to talk to reporters.

But several other properties appeared vacant this week, boarded up with plywood. Some showed signs theyd been broken into, with windows smashed or basement doors ajar and piles of clothes and debris scattered about.

Neighbors said theyd spent years trying to get local or even state officials to do something about the properties and to help the tenants  who often struggled with drug addiction, had mental or physical disabilities, or were in and out of homelessness  get into safer housing.

Weve been calling for years, said Joe Goodman, who has lived next to two Daugherty properties in the 2300 block of Virginia, in the citys Tower Grove East neighborhood, for eight years. Weve talked to every official we could. Its obvious just looking at the properties that theyre in terrible shape. To me, the city chose to turn a blind eye.

City spokesman Nick Dunne said Mayor Tishaura O. Jones came into office in 2021 knowing that more needed to be done to address problems with vacant properties.

That was something we recognized as an administration, that the enforcement didnt go far enough, Dunne said.

And he said the administration has taken action. The citys law department has hired a person who specifically focuses on vacant property issues and collaborates with the Building Division, the Neighborhood Stabilization Team and police. It has also formed a special Affirmative Litigation Unit charged with taking on big challenges like teasing apart the Daugherty rental empire, with its raft of limited liability companies, and suing to take it down.

Dunne noted the administration has also worked to roll out new, voter-approved neighborhood stabilization money and to allocate enough federal pandemic aid to the Building Division so it can start fixing dangerous vacant properties when owners wont.

Its about damn time

Data from the citys Citizens Service Bureau show some homes attracted attention as early as the mid-1990s, before Daugherty or her associates owned them.

A stately three-story manse at 2347 Virginia Avenue, for example, lists complaints about unsanitary animals in 1996 and 1998. And in the years after the Daughertys took ownership in 2000, neighbors added concerns about derelict vehicles, building code issues and rat infestations before the house was condemned for demolition in 2008  a demolition that has never happened. Today, the house stands empty, surrounded by scaffolding that neighbors say has been up for years.

Just last month, the city boarded up another Daugherty property next door, at 2343 Virginia, where as many as six to 10 people lived at a time, said neighbors Michael Brickey and Brittany Marquardt, whove lived next to the problem property since 2019. The couple, along with Goodman, said theyd been calling officials with concerns since they moved in.

All I can say is, its about damn time, Brickey said about the lawsuit.

Neighbors and the lawsuit both described the home as squalid and miserable: Rats infested the house and spilled over into neighboring yards. The basement flooded every time it rained. The electricity, heat and water didnt work for months at a time. One winter, tenants slept huddled in a kitchen with the stove open to keep warm. There was one toilet in the house, and when it stopped working, tenants urinated and defecated in buckets and dumped them out in the yard. In 2022, a man died in the house during a summer heatwave.

And Daugherty or her associates would sometimes appear overnight yelling at tenants to either bring her rent money or move out, neighbors said. Tenants said they were paying $500 to $600 a month and that Daugherty would sometimes cash their disability or welfare checks for them and then withhold rent. Some tenants worked on Daughertys other properties instead of paying rent, they said.

But when neighbors tried to get them help finding other housing, Marquardt said, they refused. She worries about where they are now, after the house was boarded up.

They had a general distrust of the system, for one reason or another, or they felt like she was taking care of them because she had them living in a place that wasnt just a tent, she said. We told them they deserve better.

In the Benton Park West neighborhood, people had for years been living in another Daugherty property, a ramshackle three-story building at the corner of Texas and Wyoming avenues, said neighbor Mark Turpin. He thought they were squatters. Part of the roof had fallen in. The back corner of the building had collapsed. Mattresses were piled on a muddy floor with trash and debris. Rats ran around.

Turpin once tried to buy and renovate it, but his calls to the owner were never returned. In 2006, he bought the house next door, which shares a wall with the building, and lived there until he began renting it out in 2015.

More recently, the house next door was boarded up completely. Workers fixed up the roof and the back wall. Someone comes by regularly to mow the lawn now. But it still stands empty and unused.

It was horrible, said Turpin. I dont know how anyone would ever feel safe going in there.

Begone, or Ill let the dog out

Daugherty did not answer calls to publicly registered phone numbers. And no one answered the door at a house in Brentwood where she is listed as an owner and pays personal property taxes on a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis.

But the house there on Rosalie Avenue stands out on an otherwise tidy street lined with well-kept homes. The blinds in the front window are broken and bent into a V-shape. A broken-down car sits under a tarp in the driveway, as does as a trailer with what appeared to be a wooden table.

In the backyard, a stash of old bicycles, yard equipment, toilets, a car seat and at least seven lawnmowers surround a pile of garbage bags and an above-ground pool.

Its not as well-maintained, said Mary Ryan, who grew up in one of the houses on the street and now cares for her mother there.

Another neighbor said Daugherty runs it like a boarding house, with new people moving in and out regularly.

A silver-haired man with a toothy grin came outside of the house on Thursday to take out the trash. He wouldnt talk about Daugherty or the house.

Begone, he said, or Ill let the dog out.

Back in the citys Patch neighborhood one day last week, the house on Virginia was neat and tidy from the street.

But a gap in the front doorway let in freezing air. Cracks split the plaster walls. And while the refrigerator and stove appeared to work, the only furniture in the living or dining room were a couch by the front door, an easy chair, a small coffee table, a minifridge and a stand holding two televisions.

A shirtless man with a stooped back and a hacking cough said he has been living in the flat for about three decades, after a bank foreclosed on a home he was renting.

He bought all of the furniture with his savings over the years, sleeps on the couch and, after a bad motorcycle accident and multiple strokes, hardly leaves the room, he said.

He said he pays $450 a month in rent out of an $800 disability check. Daugherty has offered to cash the checks herself, but he has refused. A few times, he has worked jobs for her to pay off rent or late fees.

He hasnt always seen eye to eye with her. But he has been homeless before and found living on the streets a nightmare, he said. He has no family and nowhere else to go.

Where else are you going to find a place for just $450 a month, utilities paid? he said. You aint going to find one.

Beckley, who moved in less than a year ago, denied there were issues at the home. Daugherty fixed a broken pipe two weeks ago. Shes been understanding when hes been late on rent, including the past two months. She gave him a good a deal, he said.
JEFFERSON CITY  The next few weeks of legislative action are primed for debate over opening up access for Missouri students to leave their neighborhood schools.

Proposals to allow open enrollment between school districts and expand tax-credit scholarships for private schools are among the first bills to clear legislative committees. Eight more bills have had committee hearings already or are teed up for hearings this week.

After years of failed efforts to get their priorities across the finish line, advocates for making major changes to Missouris public school system feel they have the momentum.

The days are gone of us relying on the old guard talking point that traditional public school is the only way to go and its the only thing that the governments ever going to support or value or put in front of parents, said Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, a Columbia Republican.

But resistance in the House, coupled with gridlock in the Senate, could ultimately derail those efforts.

Senate

GOP infighting has plagued the Senate in the first three weeks of the legislative session, with the yearslong fight between Republican leadership and a minority within the caucus once again grinding legislative action to a halt.

On Thursday, with the Senate unable to function due to a filibuster by dissident senators who have converged under the umbrella of the Freedom Caucus, Rowden hinted at retribution.

I have never ever done anything punitive. ... If (behavior) doesnt change and we dont figure out a way to act like adults and act like the people who sent us here have a stake in this game, thats going to change, Rowden told state Sen. Andrew Koenig, a Manchester Republican, during last weeks nine-hour filibuster.

Yet one of the main areas of agreement between leadership and the dissident senators is education.

Koenig, who chairs the Senate Education and Workforce Development committee, is the sponsor of two bills that leverage tax credits to fund private and home education. His legislation that would expand MOScholars, a K-12 scholarship program through the treasurers office, is set to be debated in the Senate next week. It is the second bill scheduled for discussion on the Senate floor this year.

Koenig is running for state treasurer and would administer the program if elected.

The MOScholars program is currently struggling to meet the current demand for scholarships. Koenigs bill would make more students eligible without providing a solution to the funding woes.

Rowden has praised Koenigs legislation, even voicing support for a state appropriation for private school scholarships, though he acknowledged that would be an incredibly difficult thing to pass.

This is going to be slow movement because it is a divisive issue on this floor, he said. But I would vote for anything and everything that allows for every kid and parent to have choice.

Last week, Koenig added a provision to his MOScholars expansion that would allow charter schools to operate in St. Louis, St. Charles and Boone counties. His committee has not heard public testimony on expanding charter schools yet this year.

Koenig is also sponsoring another way for families to fund private schools that passed his committee last week 5-4  with Republican Sen. Elaine Gannon of De Soto joining the committees Democrats in opposition. She told Koenig the proposal would drain the public school money away.

The fiscal note on the bill estimated $900 million to $1.5 billion in state expenditures.

Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, a Democrat from Independence, told reporters state funds would be better spent on teacher recruitment and retention efforts.

The two education bills we heard this week in committee would put somewhere between a $900 million to a $1.5 billion hole in our budget, he said, making it impossible to raise teacher pay.

Missouri ranks 47th in average teacher pay and 50th in average starting teacher salaries, according to the Missouri National Education Association.

House

Across the Capitol rotunda in the House, education bills have faced long odds and traditionally squeaked out of the GOP-dominated chamber with the bare minimum of support required to pass.

A bill sponsored by Rep. Brad Pollitt, R-Sedalia, passed the House last year and was set to clear the Senate after it was tacked onto legislation on teacher recruitment and retention. The bill seeks to allow public school districts to accept students from neighboring communities, with state funding following the students.

Pollitt touts his legislation as a way to increase choice for families while supporting public schools, although the Missouri National Education Association, Missouri State Teachers Association, St. Louis Public Schools, the Cooperating School Districts of Greater Kansas City and the Missouri Council of School Administrators testified in opposition to his legislation.

The bill passed the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee, which Pollitt chairs, on an 11-6 vote.

Although it didnt get floor time in the Senate last year, Senate Majority Leader Cindy OLaughlin, R-Shelbina, said she supports Pollitts legislation.

Another sign of the issues momentum in the House is the creation this year of the Special Committee on Education Reform. Pollitt said he was informed of the committee prior to its formation.

The committee has already held a hearing on bills that would authorize charter schools in St. Louis, St. Charles and Boone Counties sponsored by representatives in the area. It will meet again Monday evening to debate virtual schools and superintendent pay.

The committee has not yet scheduled a vote for the charter-school bills.

Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: info@missouriindependent.com. Follow Missouri Independent on Facebook and X.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missouri Republicans will need to be in line at their caucus site by 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, to participate in this years presidential nominating contest, the director of the state party said Friday.

If you get there at 10:05, unfortunately you will not be able to (participate) because caucus will have begun, said Miles Ross, executive director of the Missouri GOP.

Unlike recent election cycles, when Missouri voters participated in a state-run presidential preference primary along with party-run meetings that divided up delegates, the state has no official role in this years contests.

Thats because Missouri lawmakers repealed the state-run presidential preference primary in 2022. An effort to reinstate it last year failed.

Missouri Republicans have opted for an in-person caucus on March 2 to decide delegates to the Republican National Convention which will be held July 16-18 in Milwaukee.

Democrats are planning a mail-in primary, with in-person polling places, on Saturday, March 23. The Democratic National Convention is set for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago.

For Republicans, the party plans to operate at least one caucus site in each county and the city of St. Louis.

St. Louis and St. Charles counties each have two caucus sites, according the Missouri GOPs website. Participants will report to the site corresponding to the congressional district where they are registered.

No sites for the city of St. Louis, Jefferson County and Franklin County had been announced as of Friday.

In St. Louis County, 1st Congressional District Republicans will caucus at the University of Missouri-St Louis (South Campus), 2993 South Drive in Normandy while the caucus site for 2nd Congressional District residents will be at Parkway West High School, 14653 Clayton Road in Ballwin.

In St. Charles County, Republicans who live in the 2nd Congressional District will caucus in Gymnasium B, Francis Howell Central High School, 5199 Highway N in Cottleville, while 3rd Congressional District Republicans will gather in Gymnasium A, also at Francis Howell Central High.

Lincoln County Republicans should gather at Troy Ninth Grade Center, 80 Elm Tree Road in Moscow Mills.

The Warren County GOP caucus will be held in the Warren County Administration Building Training Room (lower level), 101 Mockingbird Lane in Warrenton.

Process, requirements

After a caucus chair and secretary are chosen, participants will divide into groups according to their preferred candidate, and then be counted.

If one candidate has over 50% plus one of the caucus-goers in attendance, they win that caucus, Ross said. If no candidate has over 50%, they will then divide up the delegates.

Participants will be required to sign a pledge that says they are a Republican, Ross said.

He said voters also must present a valid, government photo ID to participate.

Only registered Missouri voters will be allowed to caucus, and they must report to the appropriate site in the county where they are registered.

Democrats

The Missouri Democratic Partys presidential primary will be held March 23.

The contest will take on a hybrid form, with both mail-in voting and in-person polling sites on the day of the primary, according to the party.

Depending on final availability, at least one in-person voting site will be held in each county, with additional sites in St. Louis and Kansas City, a party memo said.

The memo said Democrats would be able to request mail ballots on the state partys website starting on Feb. 1 and ending on March 12.

Missourians who register to vote by Feb. 21 may participate in the primary, the party said.

Though Missourians who are 17.5 years old may register to vote, they may not vote until they are 18.

Despite initially planning to allow 17-year-olds to participate, the Democrats said Friday participants would need to be 18 to vote in the March 23 primary.

Voters who by Monday had used a new state law to affiliate with the Democratic Party will automatically receive a ballot by mail, the party said.

Voters who are affiliated with the Republican Party are not allowed to participate.

Unaffiliated or other affiliations are OK, Chelsea Rodriguez, spokeswoman for the Missouri Democrats, said Friday.

In-person voting sites will be open from 8 a.m. until noon on March 23. The party will need to receive completed mail ballots by 10 a.m. that day, the memo said.
JEFFERSON CITY  On the heels of a newly launched campaign to legalize abortion in Missouri, House Republicans are planning to move forward this week with an effort aimed at making approval of those abortion protections more difficult.

Citizen-led initiative petitions to amend the Missouri Constitution currently take effect upon a simple majority vote, which has allowed voters to bypass the Legislature on issues such as Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization. In May, House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, predicted an abortion measure also would pass with a simple majority.

Proposals scheduled for a committee hearing Tuesday would create a new, more difficult requirement for passage: In addition to the statewide popular vote, successful measures would need voter approval in most legislative districts.

One resolution up Tuesday, by state Rep. Ed Lewis, R-Moberly, would require initiative petitions to win the statewide popular vote as well as majorities in five of Missouris eight congressional districts.

His second plan would require successful campaigns to win a majority of the popular vote and majorities in 82 of 163 Missouri House districts.

Do you want to have just the population centers, the cities of the state, dominate the IP (initiative petition) process? Lewis asked Monday.

Republicans hold six of eight U.S. House seats and a two-thirds majority in the state House, a fact that would place progressive ballot measures at a disadvantage.

It remains to be seen whether Republicans will ultimately settle on such a concurrent majority proposal instead of the approach that gained the most traction last year  increasing the statewide percentage needed for passage, currently set at a simple majority.

Rep. Peggy McGaugh, a Carrollton Republican and chair of the House Elections and Elected Officials Committee, said Monday she thought a number of lawmakers believed a concurrent majority is worthy of a second look.

Similar to past debates, Tuesdays hearing could also generate criticism that Republicans were using ballot candy in an attempt to juice voter sentiment.

In addition to requiring concurrent majorities, the resolutions would also ban foreign interference in initiative petitions as well as initiative petitions that raise taxes on food or property.

Both are mentioned in proposed ballot summaries before the concurrent majority plans.

Voters would get the final say on any question lawmakers ultimately place on the ballot to change the initiative petition process.

Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, would choose whether the initiative petition changes appear before voters in August or November.

If voters approve initiative petition changes in the Aug. 6 primary, the higher threshold would be in effect for questions on the Nov. 5 ballot, said JoDonn Chaney, spokesman for Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, a Republican.

In Ohio, voters in August rejected by a broad majority a proposal by lawmakers to raise the threshold for passage there to 60%. Passage wouldve made it more difficult for voters there to protect abortion rights in November.

After the Ohio vote in August, Senate President Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, cast doubt on any similar efforts success in Missouri, though he predicted renewed efforts to change the initiative petition process after lawmakers returned to the Capitol in January.

Nearly 57% of Ohio voters there went on to approve abortion protections in November.

Last week, the Senate erupted as a faction of the Republican caucus held up a list of gubernatorial appointments for hours, demanding Rowden fast-track initiative petition changes in the wake of the abortion legalization campaign launch.

Rowden has said he would refer initiative petition changes to committee this week. The Senate canceled business Monday due to icy weather conditions.

The measures are House Joint Resolutions 72 and 102.
ST. LOUIS  The storm that froze much of the Midwest also shut down the St. Louis region on Monday, as hours of freezing rain turned roads into a slippery mess and led to the closure of government offices, schools and businesses.

Metro suspended bus routes due to treacherous road conditions. At one point, about 90 outgoing flights had been canceled at St. Louis Lambert International Airport.

Still, authorities urged drivers to stay home, and they did: Highways were largely empty, even during the morning commute. By days end, the Missouri Highway Patrol had handled no fatal crashes or even accidents with serious injuries in the St. Louis area.

A lot of folks listened to our warnings and didnt get out, or they delayed their morning commute, said patrol spokesperson Cpl. Dallas Thompson. With the amount of ice we had, thats really great news.

City fire officials said most of the calls they received Monday morning were for people who had fallen after slipping on icy walkways.

At Lambert, freezing rain brought the airport to a halt overnight. By Monday morning, runways were closed and numerous flights canceled or delayed. Runways later reopened, but some were still stranded for the day.

A wave of early cancellations

The storm left morning air travelers rebooked on evening trips. Many spent the day in terminal restaurants and bars or hunkered down with their luggage and snoozing on floors and in chairs.

Linda Bowes 70th birthday trip to the Dominican Republic was already two years late because of the pandemic, and the storm added another days wait on Monday. She and friend Debbie Calcara were among a group of would-be travelers booked on a 9 a.m. direct charter flight through a travel agency.

Calcara did laps around the terminal, and they both napped to pass the time.

Jackie Brewer, of Lake Saint Louis, said roads were dicey getting to the airport.

We drove in, but we had to do it carefully, she said. You couldnt do more than 40 mph.

The passengers were booked on a Monday evening commercial flight to the Dominican Republic, through Orlando, Florida, with a 10-hour layover.

Many schools closed on Monday. So did the Gateway Arch.

St. Louis and St. Louis County closed government offices Monday; some city staff were asked to work remotely. City and county courts shuttered. Those summoned for jury duty Monday were told to come Tuesday instead.

The University of Missouri St. Louis, St. Louis University and Washington Universitys Danforth Campus all switched to online classes for the day. Any faculty and staff who could work remotely were asked to do so.

St. Lukes Hospital closed four urgent care locations for the day  in Arnold, Chesterfield, Des Peres and Ladue. The General Motors plant in Wentzville canceled one shift, according to the union.

And businesses across the region shut down for the day or closed early.

Kris Kleindienst, owner of Left Bank Books, rescheduled an author event and closed her Central West End bookstore at 4 p.m., four hours early.

Its less likely people come out when there are treacherous roads, Kleindienst said. We want to keep everyone safe.

Still, she said, with the weather uncertain, she opted to open Monday morning.

I personally think its better to keep running your business instead of, every time its icky, to quit, she said.

After COVID-19, all of us in retail business are very anxious to be open when we can, even if its less than comfortable.

How we eat is based on being able to sell what we sell, Kleindienst said. So youre going to try and do that as best you can.

An early, slippery start to the day

The freezing rain started around 2 a.m. Monday, when it was about 31 degrees, according to readings taken at Lambert by the National Weather Service.

Brad Charboneau, a meteorologist there, said the amount of ice varied throughout the metro area, anywhere from a few hundredths of an inch all the way up to close to a quarter of an inch.

The nearly quarter-inch amounts were reported around the St. Peters-Cottleville border in St. Charles County and north of Winfield in Lincoln County, he said.

Generally speaking, a quarter-inch is kind of a threshold where we start to see damage to infrastructure such as downed tree limbs, he said.

Looking ahead, the area forecast through Wednesday night called for gradually warming temperatures and a better than even chance of rain.

As far as the freezing rain goes, weve wrapped that up at this point, Charboneau said late Monday afternoon.

The low Monday night was predicted to be 33 degrees.

The Tuesday forecast called for a high of 43 and low of 40, with daytime rain chances pegged at 20% but increasing to 80% Tuesday night.

On Wednesday, the high is expected to be 53 and low 44, with a 60% to 70% chance of rain.

Annika Merrilees, Christian Gooden and Hannah Wyman of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.

Submit your video Have video of icy conditions? 1. Please stay safe and stay off the roads if you're able. 2. Use this link to send us the video.
MANCHESTER, N.H.  As she addressed a crushing crowd of volunteers and media at Donald Trumps New Hampshire headquarters on Saturday, New York Rep. Elise Stefanik received a welcome chant.

VP! VP! VP! one man shouted across the room.

While vice presidential candidates typically arent picked until after a candidate has locked down the nomination, Trumps decisive win in last weeks Iowa caucuses and the departure of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis from the race only heightened what had already been a widespread sense of inevitability that he will be the Republican nominee. That has given the campaign trail stops by Stefanik and other Republicans the feel of a public tryout reminiscent of Trumps days as a reality TV host.

Many Republicans covet a spot on the presidential ticket with Trump as a chance to serve in a high-profile role that has elevated many ambitious politicians from relative obscurity.

That interest comes despite the fate of Trumps first vice president, Mike Pence. For four years, Pence was Trumps most loyal defender, advocating for him at every turn. In the final months of their administration, Trump turned on Pence, casting him as disloyal for refusing to go along with his unconstitutional effort to block President Joe Bidens win.

Pences role in certifying the 2020 election not only threatened his life during the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol but sidelined his political career. He would end his own bid for this years GOP presidential nomination in October after failing to get traction.

Many of Trumps supporters still believe the former presidents lies about the election and view Pence as a traitor.

The Trump campaign has held several events in both Iowa and New Hampshire with high-profile surrogates. Beyond serving as opportunities to display their loyalty and star power to Trumps team, the events serve as a reward for volunteers as well as a recruiting tool that brings in new faces, senior Trump officials said.

Stefanik joined Trump on stage at his Friday night rally in New Hampshire and stopped by his campaign headquarters the next morning to thank volunteers and make calls. In both appearances, she stressed that she was the first member of Congress to endorse Trumps comeback bid.

Im proud to be one of his strongest supporters, particularly at key moments, she told reporters. Asked if she would consider being his running mate, Stefanik said, Of course Id be honored, Ive said that for a year, to serve in a future Trump administration in any capacity.

Others who have appeared in Iowa and New Hampshire on Trumps behalf include Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy appeared with Trump on stage in New Hampshire a day after dropping out of the race, also drawing VP chants from the crowd as he delivered a fiery speech.

At the same rally where Stefanik spoke, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, Trumps former rival in the presidential race, announced his enthusiastic endorsement in what sounded like his own audition.

We need Donald Trump! said Scott, leading the crowd in an impassioned call-and-response full of the fervor many of his own campaign appearances seemed to lack. Trump stood behind him grinning.

Trump, too, has been stoking the speculation, saying during a recent Fox News town hall that he already knows who its going to be. He told Fox News host Bret Baier over the weekend that theres probably a 25% chance that he would ultimately pick the person he had in mind, adding: The person that I think I like is a very good person, pretty standard. I think people wont be that surprised.

Among those considered high on the list is Stefanik, a member of House Republican leadership who has seen her profile rise after her aggressive questioning of a trio of university presidents over antisemitism set in motion two of their resignations.

The former Trump critic has tried to position herself as a trusted ally of the former president, defending him in both of his impeachments and filing an ethics complaint in New York against the judge hearing his civil fraud case.

During a recent appearance on NBCs Meet the Press, Stefanik referred to those imprisoned for crimes committed on Jan. 6 as hostages.

At a roadside country western saloon last week in the small town of Kingston, Vance, the senator from Ohio, offered a robust endorsement of Trump to a small crowd seated on bar tables nestled between whiskey barrels.

Vance once called himself a never-Trump guy and labeled Trump an idiot. But like so much of his party, he has rallied to Trumps side. He says the two are now very close and talk all the time.

While he said he would help out however I can if he was offered the vice presidential ticket, he said Trump would also need allies in Congress.

I think thats the best place for me is to actually be an advocate of the agenda in the United States Senate. But certainly if the president asked, I would have to think about. I want to help him out in however I can, he said.

7 political cartoons implicate the Iowa caucuses
My initial thought on the Iowa Caucus after observing a precincts caucus can be summed up in one word: Ridiculous.

No, it wasnt the weather, despite the temperature in Ames, Iowa, on Monday being -6 with a windchill of -29 and with 14 inches of snow on the ground.

No, it wasnt being in the state of Iowa. I find Iowa to be beautiful and the residents even more lovely. Even though turnout was down, more than 110,000 Iowans came out to engage in the democratic process. I could dine at Jethros BBQ n Bacon Bacon in West Des Moines every day of the week. (You definitely want to order the bucket of bacon if you find yourself there.)

It was the absurd idea that the GOP primary might be competitive and that the results of the Iowa caucuses would be anything other than what they were. No one  not the other candidates, nor the Republican National Committee, nor the Republican establishment  was ever serious about changing voters minds and beating the front runner.

While Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley are still in the GOP nomination contest, neither candidate has ever made a strong enough case to voters on why they would make a better president than Donald Trump, or why Trump should not be president again.

Both candidates mentioned too little, too late, and mighty weakly, that they thought that the events of Jan. 6, 2021, would catch up with Trump and that he will eventually be held accountable. Haley frequently repeated, Chaos followed Trump. There was a mild argument from both DeSantis and Haley that a new generation was needed.

DeSantis did call out right-wing media, saying [Trumps] got basically a Praetorian Guard of the conservative media. Fox News, the websites, all this stuff. They just dont  they dont hold him accountable because theyre worried about losing viewers and they dont want to have the ratings go down. But this rebuke took place only four days before the Iowa Caucus.

It was a political calculation that both DeSantis and Haley made as they watched their competitors unfavorables rise once they attacked Trump. Instead of taking on Trump, both DeSantis and Haley had been taking shots at each other, calling each other liars in the final Republican debate before Iowa, without calling out the biggest liar of them all.

Speaking of debates: The Republican National Committee used to be the primary sponsor of the debates. But todays iteration of the RNC is the head of a political party without any institutional fortitude. In December, the RNC said it would no longer host the debates and would leave them up to the cable networks.

But before that, the RNC did ask all the candidates to sign a pledge. It read: I affirm that if I do not win the 2024 Republican nomination for President of the United States, I will honor the will of the primary voters and support the Republican presidential nominee in order to save our country and beat Joe Biden. I further pledge that I will not seek to run as an independent or write-in candidate nor will I seek or accept the nomination for president of any other party.

The pledge also requires candidates to agree not to take part in any debates not sanctioned by the RNC. DeSantis, Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy (who has since dropped out) all signed the pledge.

The only candidate who did not was Trump.

The RNC seems to have rules for the other candidates that do not apply to Trump and did not contribute to ensure a robust competition.

Republican primary voters know what they want  and they want Trump. An ABC News/Ipsos poll showed that 72% of Republican-aligned adults would be satisfied with Trump as the nominee.

Five days before the Iowa caucuses, Trump held a town hall on Fox News at the same time as the CNN GOP debate. According to The Hill, Foxs town hall with Trump averaged 4.3 million viewers from 9 to 10 p.m., while the CNN debate featuring DeSantis and Haley averaged 2.5 million during the same hour.

According to entrance polls conducted prior to the caucuses, 66% had already decided they would vote for Trump a month before the caucus, meaning they were not open to any of the arguments made by the other candidates. Those polls showed 69% believe that Biden did not legitimately win the 2020 election. And about two-thirds of Iowa caucus-goers said they would consider Trump to be fit for president even if he were convicted of a crime.

There is no real Republican primary race. Short of a miracle, Trump will be the GOP nominee. To pretend there is anything of a horse race going on here is foolish. The other candidates were never really in it to win it.

So as I slowly made my way back home on the icy and snowy roads of Iowa, I had time to reflect and the highlight of my trip to Iowa was definitely the bacon.
The State of FAST Markets: Europe vs. US

The European FAST market has always been a different animal from the U.S. one; besides generally lagging a few years behind the U.S. market in terms of maturation, the European market has different complexities, due to language differences, localization, and other factors such as how readily available free content tends to be in different markets. But trailing the U.S.s growth curve isnt necessarily a disadvantage, and now, with Europe supplanting North America as the worlds fastest-growing FAST ecosystem, there are lessons to be learned, as Evan Shapiro of New York-based ESHAP/Media War & Peace newsletter and Marion Ranchet of the European Streaming Made Easy newsletter discuss in this clip captured at Streaming Media Connect in November.

Germany is growing really quickly now from a very low base. The UK is growing very quickly, Spain is growing very quickly, says Shapiro. And theres a lag time between the growth spurt of FAST in the US and what's happened over there in Europe. Are there major differences in the platforms and the programmers? A lot of it is driven by local-language content, but a lot of it is coming in dubbed and subtitled on the major platforms. Are you seeing other kinds of major nuances or differentiations between what's happening early days in FAST there and what's happening kind of in a more mature market here?

I dont think we're going to see the same thing happen in Europe that we've seen in the U.S., Ranchet says. The markets are very different. I was at Roku in 2019. It was the beginning and then the pandemic hit, spurring unprecedented growth nearly everywhere in the streaming world. So theres a lot of elements, ingredients that I think were not going to see again in Europe. Also, because we have this lag of a few years on pretty much everything, we tend to look at what you've done and also tweak it.

A cautionary tale, Shapiro injects.

In some cases well make the same mistakes, but thats kind of the value of being second, I would say, Ranchet continues. I think there's also the fact that the markets are very different. In the U.S., when you offer a free value proposition, I think its very distinctive. In Europe, its not. We have tons of amazing content for free from broadcasters. So yes, linear is going down, and especially with younger audiences, there's a lot of struggles. But having said that, we already have a lot of opportunities to watch free content.

Another key difference, Ranchet explains, is the different trajectories of Pay TV, cord cutting, and CTV in the U.S. vs. Europe. "In the U.S., I feel FAST was really boosted by the Connected TV ecosystem, and that's again because of cord cutting," she says. "The Pay TV market is contracting in Europe but not bleeding out in the same way as in the U.S. because it's much cheaper. In France, essentially, for 40 euros you have a Pay TV package with internet, the whole shebang. So there's a lot of that at stake."

With Pay TV holding its own in Europe, where does FAST fit in? I think there's room for FAST, and I think we'll just make it something different."

Pluto and Samsung are infiltrating the market there, as exemplified by Pluto combining My5 and Pluto in the UK, Shapiro says. Both are owned by Paramount. That's a very different take than anything that theyve ever seen here.

My5 is the digital hub of the broadcaster Channel 5," Ranchet replies. You also see the local broadcasters testing it. ITVX [recently celebrated] their one-year anniversary. Theyve launched 25 to 30 channels within these last few months and they generated something like 25 million streaming hours. They had 3 to 4 million viewers coming in and out to use that. So I think the recipe for success is going to be a bit different. That's where I think the niche services really have a play. If it's about copying and pasting traditional TV onto FASTwhich is what it started to look likethen youre just going to repeat whats happening and people are going to turn away. Whereas FAST is the opportunity to bring new guys and so new verticals, underserved topics and underserved audiences. Theres also a diversity play. Folks who had no say can actually have a say via FAST, right? So, that's a few of the things Ive seen. The challenge is then the fragmentationhow difficult it is to grow globally when you are going beyond the English language.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Spain may organize a conference with a focus on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR, or the Middle Corridor), said Sheana Mendes, the Secretary of State for Trade of Spain and co-chairman of the Kazakh-Spanish intergovernmental commission, during a meeting with the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Spain Danat Musayev, Trend reports.

Thus, Mendes expressed the country's readiness to organize business conferences dedicated to the 15th anniversary of the Kazakh-Spanish strategic partnership.

According to her, the main focus of the events will be on the following topics: the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, mining and agro-industry, and agriculture.

In turn, Musayev drew the attention of the Secretary of State to the need to update the agreement on mutual protection of investments as soon as possible, which will open up new niches for cooperation between the countries.

The issues of developing cooperation in the fields of digitalization, logistics, and agriculture, as well as the possibility of expanding the range of Kazakhstani goods exported to Spain, became separate topics of the negotiations.

In addition, the interlocutors discussed prospects in the fields of extraction and processing of rare earth metals and the transfer of industrial technologies.

Stay up to date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) ("Wyndham" or the "Company"), the world's largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,100 hotels spanning more than 95 countries, today confirmed receipt of a notice from Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) ("Choice") of its intent to nominate directors to the Wyndham Board of Directors (the "Board") at the Company's 2024 annual meeting of shareholders. The Wyndham Board issued the following statement in response:

"This action is yet another attempt by Choice to advance its inadequate and risk-laden hostile exchange offer, which the Wyndham Board unanimously determined is not in the best interests of shareholders. Wyndham's Board and management team are executing the Company's strategic plan, which is expected to deliver shareholder value well in excess of Choice's offer.

"Choice's proxy contest is a blatant scheme to mislead shareholders into packing the Wyndham Board with nominees hand-picked to push through their offer. As Stewart Bainum , controlling shareholder and Chairman of Choice, brazenly telegraphed in a press release this morning, Choice has assembled and paid a slate with a sole, dubious goal in mind: advance Choice's misguided and self-serving acquisition agenda.

"Protecting Wyndham shareholders from an unsolicited proposal that substantially undervalues the Company and exposes it to significant, asymmetrical anti-trust risk is the very definition of a Board doing its job. This is why the Board has met on at least 10 occasions to evaluate Choice's proposals and the Board and our advisors have engaged in good faith with Choice at least 25 times since Choice's first approach in April. The Board has consistently been explicit about what changes are necessary to make any proposal viable for Wyndham and its shareholders. Choice has consistently refused to address these key issues.

"The Wyndham Board is fully committed to acting in the best interests of Wyndham shareholders. We will continue to take all appropriate actions to advance and protect these interests. This includes maintaining a strong, independent Board with the right mix of perspectives and experience to drive sustainable, profitable growth and value creation. The Wyndham Board brings decades of international hospitality and travel industry experience as well as expertise in key areas critical to the execution of our strategy, including franchise businesses, M&A, law, operations, finance, accounting, marketing and media. We are confident we have the right Board composition to position Wyndham for continued long-term success and value creation."

In accordance with its established processes, the Board will thoroughly evaluate the notice and Choice's nominees and make a formal recommendation to Wyndham shareholders in due course.

The Wyndham Board continues to recommend shareholders NOT tender their shares.

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and PJT Partners are serving as financial advisors and Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP are legal advisors to Wyndham.

Additional materials and facts are available at https://www.staywyndham.com/.
Company announces annual application process for diverse-owned suppliers

BOISE, Idaho--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) today announced its annual application process for diverse-owned suppliers. As part of the companys ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, the Albertsons Cos. Supplier Diversity Program is designed to discover, support and give diverse-owned suppliers the opportunity to expand their business with Albertsons Cos. and its stores.

At Albertsons Cos., we are committed to providing opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs and businesses to successfully grow their brands and sell their products on our store shelves, said Monique Lanaux, GVP and Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Officer. Through our Supplier Diversity Program, we are building an inclusive culture in our stores that values diversity and reflects the many communities where we live and serve.

The application process is open now to diverse-owned suppliers, which include small and mid-size businesses that are at least 51 percent owned, controlled and operated by women, Black, indigenous and people of color, LGBTQ+, veterans or people with disabilities who can offer products that appeal to the varied preferences of Albertsons Cos. diverse customer base.

The Albertsons Cos. Supplier Diversity Program also works closely with diverse business owners to overcome challenges and various barriers including access to working capital. For many small and medium-sized businesses, obtaining working capital is critical to growing their operations. Through Albertsons Cos. continued partnership with C2FO, diverse-owned brands can receive early payment terms on approved invoices, unlocking fast and flexible access to low-cost capital.

Last year, nearly 500 businesses submitted applications for the Supplier Diversity Program and more than 60 diverse-owned brands were selected to meet with the Albertsons Cos. merchandising team. As a result, six diverse-owned brands, Blue Elephant, Catalina Crunch, Mr. Kooks, Partake Foods, Radius and Watcharees, were added to the more than 200 certified diverse suppliers already selling their products nationwide at Albertsons Cos. stores including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco and Shaws.

Diverse business owners interested in having their products considered to sell in one or more Albertsons Cos. stores, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, ACME and Shaws, should submit their application online here by Feb. 2. Diverse suppliers who are selected to meet with the Albertsons Cos. team will be notified by Feb. 16 and appointments will be scheduled for early April.

About Albertsons Companies

Albertsons Companies is a leading food and drug retailer in the United States. As of December 2, 2023, the Company operated 2,271 retail food and drug stores with 1,726 pharmacies, 401 associated fuel centers, 22 dedicated distribution centers and 19 manufacturing facilities. The Company operates stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia with 24 banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, Carrs, Kings Food Markets and Balducci's Food Lovers Market. The Company is committed to helping people across the country live better lives by making a meaningful difference, neighborhood by neighborhood. In 2022, along with the Albertsons Companies Foundation, the Company contributed more than $200 million in food and financial support, including more than $40 million through our Nourishing Neighbors Program to ensure those living in our communities and those impacted by disasters have enough to eat.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122282636/en/

[email protected]

Source: Albertsons Companies, Inc.
SAN DIEGO & BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Fifth paragraph of release dated January 16, 2024, should conclude: ...hospitality and manufactured housing markets (instead of ...hospitability and manufactured housing markets).

The updated release reads:

ACCESSPARKS RAISES PRIVATE EQUITY FUNDING ROUND FOR BROADBAND EXPANSION

M/C Partners, a leading private equity firm focused on digital infrastructure and technology services sectors, is excited to announce a significant growth investment in AccessParks. Established in 2016, the Company provides high-performance Broadband connectivity to RV Parks, National and State Parks, and Manufactured Housing Communities ("MHC") nationwide. The investment will drive accelerated growth across AccessParks' business lines and capital for strategic acquisitions.

"The M/C Partners team brings incredible knowledge and resources that will allow us to continue to push the envelope in technology, performance, and support," said Tim Rout, Founder. Tim added, "We are thrilled to execute further technological innovations that will delight customers as we continue our rapid growth that cements our role as the market leader."

Tim and the existing management team will work alongside Alan Rosenberg, who has joined AccessParks as CEO. Alan brings deep experience leading internet operators through exponential expansion, most recently as CEO of Upstream Network and before that as CEO of Business Only Broadband. Founder and former CEO Tim Rout and COO Tony Perkins will maintain leadership roles within the Company. Im excited to join this innovative team and lead the scaling of our accelerated growth and operational platform, stated Alan Rosenberg.

"There has been a massive surge in Americans visiting the outdoors, and AccessParks has been changing industry expectations for quality and reliability of connectivity in the industry," said Brian Clark, Managing Partner at M/C Partners. "AccessParks deep understanding of this industry and commitment to exceptional client experience is essential to being a market leader."

This partnership between M/C Partners and AccessParks will drive innovation and growth by bringing new broadband solutions to the outdoor hospitality and manufactured housing markets.

About AccessParks

AccessParks is the first and only Broadband provider in outdoor hospitality and manufactured housing communities ("MHC") to offer enterprise-grade connectivity, end-to-end Broadband managed services and guaranteed minimum SLAs for Internet speed. Its campground division enables Broadband access to the outdoors using fiber-optic, microwave, 5G, and Wi-Fi services. The MHC division leverages similar technologies to bring gigabit Broadband to residents. Currently, AccessParks serves over 30 million annual guests and residents with Broadband. For more information, visit www.AccessParks.com.

About M/C Partners

M/C Partners is a private equity firm focused on small and mid-size businesses in the digital infrastructure and technology services sectors. M/C Partners has invested $2.4 billion in over 140 companies for over three decades, leveraging its deep industry expertise to understand long-term secular trends and identify growth opportunities. The firm is investing its ninth fund, partnering with promising companies and leadership teams to support, scale, and improve operations and maximize value. For more information, please visit https://mcpartners.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240116772947/en/

Scott Harness

[email protected]

Source: AccessParks
DONGYING, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Dongying in East China's Shandong province has been making efforts to vitalize folk traditions and customs during the Spring Festival period to enrich the lives of local villagers and boost cultural tourism in rural areas.

The Dongying Rural Culture and Tourism Festival, which kicked off on Jan 18, is shining the spotlight on folk culture, tourism resources, handcrafts and local delicacies in rural areas through a series of festive activities.

The event will span the entire Spring Festival period and conclude on March 11. The objective is to make use of traditional Chinese festivals such as the Laba Rice Porridge Festival, Spring Festival, and Lantern Festival during this period to enhance the rural cultural experience, revive folk customs, ignite festive atmosphere and drive urban and rural consumption.

Dongying, a city situated where the Yellow River meets the sea, is known for its blend of breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage items like straw weaving, cheongsam making, and clay pottery.

The festival is displaying a wide array of local cultural items such as straw weaving, black pottery, seal ink, embroidery, and New Year paintings, which have attracted many tourists, including foreign visitors from the United Kingdom and South Africa.

The city will also organize folk cultural activities featuring festive traditions, launch customized countryside tours and provide free access to certain cultural venues to create a more festive atmosphere for visitors during the Chinese Lunar New Year period.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240119132815/en/

Dongying Municipal Publicity Department

Alina Liu

[email protected]

Source: Dongying Municipal Publicity Department
PARIS & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News:

Excellence Imagerie, a leading French independent medical imaging group, today welcomes Antin Infrastructure Partners (Paris: ANTIN) as a key long-term partner alongside the Groups radiologists and its current shareholder, UI Investissement. Antin is committed to further supporting Excellence Imageries unique positioning, which focuses on the quality and accessibility of care by relying on expert radiologists, a highly rated team and state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment.

The radiologist partners, notably represented by Excellence Imagerie co-founders Alain Dana and Patrick Toubiana, will continue to play a key role in defining the Groups strategy and operations.

Excellence Imagerie now has four main centres, making it one of the largest medical imaging networks in France. With 160 employees and 60 radiologists, it carries out 400,000 consultations a year. Antin's support will allow the company to implement its development and investment plan by extending its footprint through partnerships with radiologists across the country. Excellence Imagerie will also welcome two new leading groups into its network: GIMA, based in Angers, and Imagerie Duroc, based in Paris.

Excellence Imagerie recently became a purpose-driven company, further anchoring its values of medical excellence and access to care. This approach enables all employees to be involved in the project and aims to promote practitioner and care staff expertise in offering patients a high-quality diagnosis. The Group has also developed its own certified quality label and is engaged in innovation in the healthcare sector, notably through advanced partnerships in the fields of AI and data management, as well as through the expertise cultivated within its research network dedicated to public health issues.

Commenting on the transaction, Excellence Imagerie co-founders Alain Dana and Patrick Toubiana said: Excellence Imagerie was created to support an ambitious, long-term medical project. Antin's experience in the healthcare sector, its long-term vision and its belief in the essential role of medical imaging in care pathways make it an ideal partner in federating additional groups of radiologists throughout France to offer patients a high-quality, local healthcare service. We are delighted to welcome Dominique Najmark, as well as Dr Dana Darabi and Dr Jean-Yves Seror and their teams, to strengthen our project and our ambition.

Antin Senior Partner Mehdi Azizi stated: We are delighted to be joining forces with Excellence Imagerie's talented and renowned team to write the next chapter in the Group's development. Thanks to its medical project, based on the specialization of practitioners, state-of-the-art equipment and innovation, Excellence Imagerie has rapidly established itself as a major player in radiology in France. We will leverage our expertise in both social infrastructure and in growing companies to support Excellence Imagerie in order to address the increasing need for medical imaging throughout the country.

Olivier Jarrousse, Managing Partner of UI Investissement, said: Excellence Imagerie was born out of the desire of radiologists to join forces to enhance the quality of medical service. The UI Investissement team has been involved in this project from day one, taking an active and exciting approach that has enabled us to build a first-rate Group by combining and creating centres in Paris, and now by acquiring the centres in Angers and Duroc. Joining forces with Antin will give the Group complementary capabilities that will enable it to fulfil the strong ambitions of its founders.

These transactions are subject to customary regulatory approvals, including by the relevant French Departmental Medical Councils (Ordre departemental des Medecins).

About Antin Infrastructure Partners

Antin Infrastructure Partners is a leading private equity firm focused on infrastructure. With over 30 billion in assets under management across its Flagship, Mid Cap and NextGen investment strategies, Antin targets investments in the energy and environment, digital, transport and social infrastructure sectors. With offices in Paris, London, New York, Singapore, Seoul and Luxembourg, Antin employs over 220 professionals dedicated to growing, improving and transforming infrastructure businesses while delivering long-term value to portfolio companies and investors. Majority owned by its partners, Antin is listed on Euronext Paris (Ticker: ANTIN  ISIN: FR0014005AL0).

About UI Investissement

UI Investissement is an independent company specialising in the development of unlisted French companies. For more than 50 years, it has been committed to working alongside the managers of growing SMEs and mid-caps to help them create companies that perform successfully and sustainably.

UI Investissement manages almost 1.5 billion in assets and supports 300 managers in sectors that are essential to society, such as healthcare, agri-business, industry and services. Venture capital and transmission of companies, the traditional core of UI's business, account for more than half of assets under management, enabling more than 50 companies to benefit from the operational expertise and methodological tools developed by UI. At the same time, the teams and investment vehicles dedicated to innovation and consolidation enable us to support companies throughout their life cycle and contribute to regional economic dynamism.

UI currently employs nearly 80 people and, in addition to its teams in Paris, has more than 10 regional offices (Besancon, Clermont-Ferrand, Dijon, Lille, Limoges, Lyon, Nantes, Orleans, Reims, Rennes, Strasbourg, etc.).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240121085460/en/

Antin Media Contacts

Antin Infrastructure Partners

Nicolle Graugnard, Communication Director

Email: [email protected]

Ludmilla Binet, Head of Shareholder Relations

Email: [email protected]

Brunswick

Tristan Roquet Montegon +33 (0) 6 37 00 52 57

Gabriel Jabes +33 (0) 6 40 87 08 14

Email: [email protected]

UI Media Contact

Laurent Maillard +33 (0) 6 60 59 77 07

Email : [email protected]

Source: Antin Infrastructure Partners
Aventura Private Wealth selects Goldman Sachs Advisor Solutions as primary custodian

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Insigneo, a leading international wealth management firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Aventura Private Wealth LLC, and its founder Shmuel Maya, to their platform of global financial advisors.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122449037/en/

Shmuel Maya, founder of Aventura Private Wealth LLC (Photo: Business Wire)

Leveraging the sophisticated capabilities of Goldman Sachs Advisor Solutions for domestic clients, Shmuel Maya and his team at Aventura Private Wealth, which includes Ahmed Roshdy and Andrea Bruno, both formerly of JPMorgan Chase, bring over 20 years of combined experience in private wealth management to their new venture. They collectively managed over $430 million at their previous firm. The new firm will draw on extensive experience in global financial markets and cater to high-net-worth individuals.

"At Aventura Private Wealth, our clients financial journey is our priority. We are committed to guiding them through every market twist with expertise and assurance," stated Shmuel Maya, owner of Aventura Private Wealth. Maya affirmed, "Our decision to transition aligns with the evolving needs of our valued clients. The launch of Aventura Private Wealth empowers us to seamlessly serve our client base. Our clientele spans a broad spectrum, encompassing business owners, individuals in the hotel industry, and multi-generational family wealth offices, for which we recognize the unique aspirations and objectives of such diverse groups. With this move, we unlock a realm of possibilities for our clients. The horizon is very bright, not just for our team but, most importantly, for our clients.

Insigneo and Goldman Sachs Advisor Solutions have signed a custody agreement to support the domestic clients of Aventura Private Wealth. Clients of Aventura Private Wealth will have access to Goldman Sachs Advisor Solutions institutional-grade investment capabilities, portfolio analytics, lending solutions, intellectual capital and research. Shmuel and his team will focus on providing wealth management solutions to individuals, families, endowments, and retirement plans. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the growth and expansion opportunities in the Florida and Southeast markets.

Jose Salazar, Market Head for Miami at Insigneo, expressed excitement about Shmuel's addition to their wealth management platform stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Shmuel and Aventura Private Wealth to our team. Their experience and proven success in the industry will be a valuable asset as we continue to expand our business model in key markets across the US."

Prior to Aventura Private Wealth, Shmuel worked at JP Morgan Chase for twelve years. He attended Northeastern University in Boston, with a focus in finance and political science. A native of South Florida, Shmuel lives in Aventura with his wife and three young children. He enjoys playing pickleball and participating in Miamis vibrant art community.

About Insigneo:

Insigneo is a leading international wealth management firm providing services and technologies that empower investment professionals to successfully serve their clients globally. Insigneo leverages its customized solutions, client-first service, and custodial relationship with BNY Mellons Pershing to provide a fully integrated, best-in-class independent wealth management platform. With over $24B in supported customer assets, Insigneo empowers more than 440 investment professionals serving over 30,000 clients. For more information, visit www.insigneo.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122449037/en/

Deborah Hartmann

Newlink Group

[email protected]

Source: Insigneo
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Metropolitan Hardwood Flooring (Metropolitan Floors), a leading manufacturer and distributor of premium Kentwood engineered hardwood dazzled at the Interior Design Show, unveiling their new and notable collections as well as the winning entry of their esteemed Metropolitan Design Challenge.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122959625/en/

IDS Challenge winners Gigi Lombardo-Dybalski, Natalie Guberney, and Jenny Bae Huggon alongside Wilf Selfe, vice president, of Eastern Canada & Joe Cosentino, Builder - Commercial Business Manager, Eastern Canada, at Metropolitan Floors. (Photo: Business Wire)

The annual Interior Design Show (IDS), held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, returned last week, wrapping on Sunday, January 21, after a four-day run. The show featured hundreds of exhibitors, including Metropolitan Floors. The event saw an impressive turnout, with dealers, distributors, architects and design professionals in attendance.

For Metropolitan Floors, IDS has been a long-standing tradition. Weve been attending IDS for many years, said Wilf Selfe, vice president, of Eastern Canada, at Metropolitan Floors. The audience this show brings with architects, builders, and designers is unparalleled. We hope to continue to foster closer relationships with the A&D community, closer relationships with builders and to showcase our new products and our mission as a company, at large.

Sheridan College Students Win 2024 Design Challenge

During IDS, Metropolitan Floors announced the 2024 Metropolitan Design Challenge winners, spotlighting Jenny Bae Huggon, Gigi Lombardo-Dybalski, and Natalie Guberney, all of whom attend Sheridan College. Their design, called Origins, was constructed and showcased at Metropolitans booth for attendees to admire. The installation invited viewers to interact with it through the use of a map, inspiring them to document their own origins.

Open to Ontario students enrolled in a post-secondary interior design program, the challenge awards the winning design with a cash prize of fifteen hundred dollars. The challenge is all about giving back to the design community. Its rewarding for us because we always look forward to seeing how students draw inspiration from the theme and use our products, said Joe Cosentino, Builder - Commercial Business Manager, Eastern Canada, at Metropolitan Floors.

Further, the Design Challenge is a manifestation of Metropolitans core values, an ethos to design the most sustainable and ethically made flooring. This year, the challenge took inspiration from Metropolitans Clean Floors program, a forest-to-floor quality assurance and environmental compliance program. The theme of the challenge, coined Crafted with Conscience, challenged participants to design an installation that gives both meaning and life to the phrase and incorporates Kentwoods latest flooring designs.

The winning students were thrilled to have their design showcased at the event. We were really inspired by how Kentwood knows the origins of their wood, said Gigi Lombardo-Dybalski.

It was such a fun project for us to undertake. We wanted to symbolize our connection to the earth but also to each other, said Natalie Guberney.

Our hope with the piece is that it provokes conversation amongst people as they view it, added Jenny Bae Huggon.

Metropolitan Has the Floor: New and Notable 2024 Collections Launch

Metropolitan Floors launched new 2024 flooring designs during IDS. Featuring ten new and notable collections with beautiful selections from Kentwood and Evoke Flooring, the new offerings include extra-wide plank-engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl flooring for light to heavy commercial applications, timeless herringbone designs, and much more.

IDS marks the first of a series of Metropolitan Floors industry events in 2024. They will roll out at select Metropolitan Floors studios and showrooms across North America this spring. These events will serve as the perfect opportunity for the A&D community to learn more about the brand and view their collections.

Explore the Kentwood engineered hardwood and Evoke luxury vinyl, laminate, rigid core, and Surge flooring solutions manufactured and designed by Metropolitan.

About Metropolitan Hardwood Floors Inc.

Metropolitan Floors is a manufacturer and distributor of premium Kentwood-engineered hardwood and Evoke luxury vinyl, laminate, rigid core, and Surge flooring. Founded as a hardwood flooring retailer in 1992, the company has grown to become a leading manufacturer and distributor of specialty flooring products and an end-to-end flooring solution provider. Metropolitan services Canada and the US from its North American design studios, warehouses, and distribution centers. Visit metrofloors.com for more information.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122959625/en/

For further information or interview requests please contact:

Marissa Themeles

[email protected]

416-258-7595

Borjana Bejatovic

[email protected]

416-258-3922

Source: Metropolitan Hardwood Floors Inc.
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and HACARUS Corporation announced today that they have agreed to expand their collaboration in the development of AI-based visual-inspection applications for manufacturing. As part of the agreement, Mitsubishi Electric will take an equity stake in HACARUS.

The strategic partnership will leverage the resources and technologies of both companies to increase synergies aimed at maximizing mutual technological and business potential. By leveraging HACARUS' expertise, Mitsubishi Electric expects to accelerate its development and provision of integrated and automated AI-based visual-inspection solutions that will enable customers to improve manufacturing quality and overall productivity. For HACARUS, the collaboration will provide access to Mitsubishi Electric's extensive sales infrastructure in Japan and overseas.

HACARUS Check is a visual-inspection solution equipped with a unique, compact AI. In addition to AI development, HACARUS also specializes in integrating AI with various factory automation (FA) devices. In December 2023, Mitsubishi Electric released MELSOFT VIXIO, an AI-based visual-inspection software equipped with the company's proprietary Maisart AI technology to automate visual-inspection processes for improved manufacturing quality and to address the problem of Japan's shrinking labor force.

"As part of our strategy for the FA systems business, we are addressing key challenges facing modern society," said Toshie Takeuchi, Group President of Mitsubishi Electric's Factory Automation Systems Group. "The automation of production lines is accelerating due to labor shortages, but many visual inspections are still performed manually by humans. Through this collaboration, we look forward to strengthening our response to customer needs through MELSOFT VIXIO, supported by HACARUS' expertise in AI-based visual inspection, to address labor shortages in the manufacturing sector."

For the full text, please visit: www.MitsubishiElectric.com/news/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240121759009/en/

Media Contacts

Public Relations Division

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

[email protected]

PR Marketing Group

HACARUS Corporation

[email protected]

Source: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Abstracts to be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncologys annual Genitourinary Cancers Symposium provide insights into treatment selection and sequencing, as well as quality of life

Latest real-world data show median overall survival (OS) from start of first-line chemotherapy of about 30 months for patients treated with the JAVELIN Bladder regimen without progression following chemotherapy

Exploratory analyses suggest that in patients who received ADC therapy after the JAVELIN Bladder regimen, median OS from start of first-line chemotherapy reached 40 months in real-world study

ROCKLAND, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- EMD Serono, the Healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, in the U.S. and Canada, today announced new real-world data that continue to reinforce the JAVELIN Bladder regimen of first-line platinum-based chemotherapy followed by BAVENCIO (avelumab) maintenance as a standard of care for eligible patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) who do not progress on first-line chemotherapy. Data include real-world studies that confirm median overall survival (OS) of approximately 30 months in patients without progression after first-line chemotherapy. Additional analyses offer insights into treatment sequencing outcomes in the real world, with the first analysis of OS by next-line treatment, including in patients who received an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) such as enfortumab vedotin after the JAVELIN Bladder regimen. These and other analyses will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncologys annual Genitourinary Cancers Symposium, January 25-27, in San Francisco.

Avelumab in the first-line maintenance setting is a standard of care for patients with locally advanced or metastatic bladder cancer, with a well-established efficacy and safety profile and supported by years of real-world experience. These new analyses add to the large body of evidence, showing avelumab maintenance treatment can help extend overall survival while potentially providing a favorable quality of life, said Philippe Barthelemy, Institut de Cancerologie Strasbourg Europe, France. The ongoing exploratory analysis of the real-world AVENANCE study may provide new insights indicating that the initial use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen, followed by a second-line antibody-drug conjugate treatment like enfortumab vedotin, could greatly enhance overall survival outcomes for patients. These findings underscore the importance of strategic treatment sequencing in optimizing patient outcomes.

Real-world insights into treatment sequencing following the JAVELIN Bladder regimen

Real-world data and analyses by subsequent treatment from the ongoing, real-world, ambispective (retrospective and prospective) AVENANCE study in France continue to support the use of BAVENCIO first-line maintenance while also demonstrating the impact of subsequent therapies once BAVENCIO treatment is discontinued. With a median follow-up since initiation of BAVENCIO of 26.3 months, median OS from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance was 21.3 months (n=595; 95% CI, 17.6 to 24.6) in patients who did not progress on first-line platinum-based chemotherapy and received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance. In an exploratory analysis, median OS from the start of platinum-based chemotherapy was 26.5 months (95% CI, 23.4 to 30.1). Subgroup analyses evaluated outcomes in the 330 patients who received second-line therapy, with median OS from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 31.3 months (95% CI, 29.1 to NE) in the 62 patients who received a second-line ADC (enfortumab vedotin: n=56; sacituzumab govitecan: n=6) and 16.7 months (95% CI, 13.6 to 22.8) in the 81 patients who received second-line platinum-based chemotherapy. Among the patients who received a second-line ADC, median OS measured from the start of chemotherapy was 40.8 months (95% CI, 32.6 to 42.1) in the exploratory analysis.

Long-term efficacy with the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in the real world

Real-world analyses of BAVENCIO first-line maintenance show median OS from the start of chemotherapy of at least 30 months in this population of patients who do not progress on first-line platinum-based chemotherapy, consistent with previously reported results of a long-term exploratory analysis from JAVELIN Bladder 100.

PATRIOT-II U.S. Real-World Study: The observational, retrospective PATRIOT-II study analyzed medical records from 160 U.S. patients, with median follow-up from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 16 months (range, 11-21 months). Patients who received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance treatment following chemotherapy achieved a median OS of 30.5 months measured from the start of first-line chemotherapy (95% CI, 23.4 to 37.6). Median OS was 24.4 months measured from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 20.4 to 28.4).

The observational, retrospective PATRIOT-II study analyzed medical records from 160 U.S. patients, with median follow-up from the start of BAVENCIO maintenance of 16 months (range, 11-21 months). Patients who received BAVENCIO first-line maintenance treatment following chemotherapy achieved a median OS of 30.5 months measured from the start of first-line chemotherapy (95% CI, 23.4 to 37.6). Median OS was 24.4 months measured from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 20.4 to 28.4). READY CUP Italy Real-World Study: The prospective, noninterventional compassionate use program (CUP) provided Italian patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC early access to BAVENCIO first-line maintenance before reimbursement. With median follow-up of 20.3 months (95% CI, 19.8 to 20.9), median OS measured from start of first-line chemotherapy was 30.9 months (95% CI, 25.7 to NE) in this population without progression after chemotherapy. Median OS from the start of maintenance treatment was 26.2 months (95% CI, 20.0 to NE).

Analyses of quality of life and efficacy in JAVELIN Bladder 100

Patient-Reported Outcomes from JAVELIN Bladder 100: This post-hoc analysis assessed long-term patient-reported outcomes (PRO) data using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network/Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Bladder Symptom Index-18 (FBlSI-18) and EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L).An analysis of scores over all cycles prior to end of BAVENCIO treatment PRO patient-reported outcomes scores were BAVENCIO treatment:, with a -2.15 mean change from baseline of -2.15 (95% CI, -3.25 to -1.04) in the FBISI-18 score and -.07 (95% CI, -.09 to -.05) in the EQ-5D-5L index score. In patients with 12 months or more of BAVENCIO treatment, there was a 1.28 mean change from baseline (95% CI, .08 to 2.49) in the FBISI-18 score and a -.02 mean change in the EQ-5D-5L index score further supporting the use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in eligible patients with advanced UC until progression or unacceptable toxicity.

This post-hoc analysis assessed long-term patient-reported outcomes (PRO) data using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network/Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Bladder Symptom Index-18 (FBlSI-18) and EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L).An analysis of scores over all cycles prior to end of BAVENCIO treatment PRO patient-reported outcomes scores were BAVENCIO treatment:, with a -2.15 mean change from baseline of -2.15 (95% CI, -3.25 to -1.04) in the FBISI-18 score and -.07 (95% CI, -.09 to -.05) in the EQ-5D-5L index score. In patients with 12 months or more of BAVENCIO treatment, there was a 1.28 mean change from baseline (95% CI, .08 to 2.49) in the FBISI-18 score and a -.02 mean change in the EQ-5D-5L index score further supporting the use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen in eligible patients with advanced UC until progression or unacceptable toxicity. High BMI Subgroup Analysis from JAVELIN Bladder 100: This exploratory subgroup analysis (n=122) showed the efficacy and safety of BAVENCIO maintenance treatment in patients with a high body mass index (BMI; 30 kg/m2)a key patient population given that high BMI is a risk factor for bladder cancer, and 25% of the worlds population is anticipated to have a high BMI by 2035. In patients with high BMI at baseline, median OS for patients receiving BAVENCIO maintenance therapy plus BSC was 20.8 months from the start of maintenance treatment (95% CI, 16.9 to 34.4), compared with 12.7 months (95% CI, 8.1 to 26.6 months) for BSC alone (HR: 0.77; 95% CI, 0.49 to 1.21). Long-term safety for patients with high BMI was consistent with results from the overall population.

The JAVELIN Bladder 100 study helped transform the standard of care for patients with advanced bladder cancer, at a time when there had been few advancements in decades. By continuing to share new research on BAVENCIO, including data on health-related quality of life, key patient populations, and treatment sequencing, we can further support clinicians in making informed treatment decisions for each individual patient, said Tamas Suto, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President & Head of Medical Unit Oncology, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.

All company presentations in urothelial cancer at ASCO GU 2024 are listed below.

Title Lead Author, Abstract # and

Session Details (all times PT) Real-world treatment patterns (tx) and clinical outcomes in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) in Germany: Results of a retrospective observational study (CONVINCE) S. Machtens



Abstract #551

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) in the Czech Republic: Interim real-world results from a national reimbursement registry A Zemankova



Abstract #557

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Updated subgroup analyses from READY: Real-world Data from an Italian compassionate use program (CUP) of avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) treatment for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) S Bracarda



Abstract #558

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Updated results from AVENANCE: Real-world effectiveness of avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in patients (pts) with advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC) and analysis of subsequent treatment P Barthelemy



Abstract #561

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) for advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC): Long-term patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in the phase 3 JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial P Grivas Abstract #581

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Clinical outcomes with split-dose cisplatin-based regimens in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC): results of a systematic literature review (SLR) and network meta-analysis (NMA) R ODwyer



Abstract #589

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line (1L) maintenance for advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC): long-term outcomes from the JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial in patients (pts) with high body mass index (BMI) J Aragon-Ching Abstract #600 Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Real-world (rw) treatment patterns, sequencing, and outcomes in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC) receiving avelumab first-line maintenance (1LM) in the US HH Moon Abstract #605

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Platinum eligibility (PE) criteria for patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC): results of a physician survey in 5 European countries S Gupta Abstract #696 Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45 Avelumab first-line maintenance therapy for locally advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma: results from the real-world PATRIOT-II study P Grivas



Abstract #697

Poster Session B: Urothelial Carcinoma Friday, Jan 26, 2024 11:30-13:00, 17:45-18:45

About JAVELIN Bladder 100

JAVELIN Bladder 100 (NCT02603432) is a Phase III, multicenter, multinational, randomized, open-label, parallel-arm study investigating first-line maintenance treatment with BAVENCIO plus BSC versus BSC alone in patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC. The primary endpoint was OS in the two primary populations of all patients and patients with PD-L1+ tumors defined by the Ventana SP263 assay. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival, anti-tumor activity, safety, pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, predictive biomarkers and patient-reported outcomes in the co-primary populations. All primary and secondary endpoints are measured from the time of randomization.

About Urothelial Carcinoma

Bladder cancer is the tenth most common cancer worldwide.1 In 2020, there were over half a million new cases of bladder cancer diagnosed, with around 200,000 deaths from the disease globally.1 In the US, an estimated 83,730 cases of bladder cancer were diagnosed in 2021, with around 10,000 locally advanced or metastatic cases presented annually.2 UC, which accounts for about 90% of all bladder cancers,3 becomes harder to treat as it advances, spreading through the layers of the bladder wall.4 Only 25% to 55% of patients receive any second-line therapy after first-line chemotherapy.5 In the US and EU5 markets, approximately 40% to 50% of patients receive an immune checkpoint inhibitor in second-line therapy.2 For patients with advanced UC, the five-year survival rate is 6.4%.2

About BAVENCIO (avelumab)

BAVENCIO is a human anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody. BAVENCIO has been shown in preclinical models to engage both the adaptive and innate immune functions. By blocking the interaction of PD-L1 with PD-1 receptors, BAVENCIO has been shown to release the suppression of the T cell-mediated antitumor immune response in preclinical models.6-8

BAVENCIO Approved Indications

BAVENCIO (avelumab) is indicated in the US for the maintenance treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that has not progressed with first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy. BAVENCIO is also indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy, or have disease progression within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib is indicated in the US for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

In the US, BAVENCIO is indicated for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

BAVENCIO is currently approved for at least one indication for patients in more than 50 countries.

BAVENCIO Important Safety Information from the US FDA-Approved Label

BAVENCIO can cause severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions in any organ system or tissue and at any time after starting treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody, including after discontinuation of treatment.

Early identification and management of immune-mediated adverse reactions are essential to ensure safe use of PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate liver enzymes, creatinine, and thyroid function at baseline and periodically during treatment. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate.

No dose reduction for BAVENCIO is recommended. For immune-mediated adverse reactions, withhold or permanently discontinue BAVENCIO depending on severity. In general, withhold BAVENCIO for severe (Grade 3) immune-mediated adverse reactions. Permanently discontinue BAVENCIO for life-threatening (Grade 4) immune-mediated adverse reactions, recurrent severe (Grade 3) immune-mediated reactions that require systemic immunosuppressive treatment, or an inability to reduce corticosteroid dose to 10 mg or less of prednisone or equivalent per day within 12 weeks of initiating corticosteroids. In general, if BAVENCIO requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Toxicity management guidelines for adverse reactions that do not necessarily require systemic corticosteroids (eg, endocrinopathies and dermatologic reactions) are discussed in subsequent sections.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, including fatal cases. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pneumonitis and evaluate suspected cases with radiographic imaging. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater pneumonitis. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 2 and permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or Grade 4 pneumonitis. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 1.2% (21/1738) of patients, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 4 (0.1%), Grade 3 (0.3%) and Grade 2 (0.6%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in all (21/21) patients with pneumonitis.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated colitis. The primary component of immune-mediated colitis consisted of diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 2 or Grade 3, and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 colitis. Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 1.5% (26/1738) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.4%) and Grade 2 (0.7%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in all (26/26) patients with colitis.

BAVENCIO can cause hepatotoxicity and immune-mediated hepatitis. Withhold or permanently discontinue BAVENCIO based on tumor involvement of the liver and severity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), or total bilirubin elevation. Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred with BAVENCIO as a single agent in 0.9% (16/1738) of patients, including fatal (0.1%), Grade 3 (0.6%), and Grade 2 (0.1%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in all (16/16) patients with hepatitis.

BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib can cause hepatotoxicity with higher than expected frequencies of Grade 3 and 4 ALT and AST elevation compared to BAVENCIO alone. Consider more frequent monitoring of liver enzymes as compared to when the drugs are used as monotherapy. Withhold or permanently discontinue both BAVENCIO and axitinib based on severity of AST, ALT, or total bilirubin elevation, and consider administering corticosteroids as needed. Consider rechallenge with BAVENCIO or axitinib, or sequential rechallenge with both BAVENCIO and axitinib, after recovery. In patients treated with BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib in the advanced RCC trials, increased ALT and increased AST were reported in 9% (Grade 3) and 7% (Grade 4) of patients. Immune-mediated hepatitis was reported in 7% of patients including 4.9% with Grade 3 or 4 immune-mediated hepatitis. Thirty-four patients were treated with corticosteroids and one patient was treated with a non-steroidal immunosuppressant.

BAVENCIO can cause primary or secondary immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency. For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment, including hormone replacement, as clinically indicated. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 3 or Grade 4 endocrinopathies until clinically stable or permanently discontinue depending on severity. Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.5% (8/1738) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.1%) and Grade 2 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in all (8/8) patients with adrenal insufficiency.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field defects. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate hormone replacement, as clinically indicated. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 3 or Grade 4 endocrinopathies until clinically stable or permanently discontinue depending on severity. Immune-mediated pituitary disorders occurred in 0.1% (1/1738) of patients, which was a Grade 2 (0.1%) adverse reaction.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement for hypothyroidism or institute medical management of hyperthyroidism, as clinically indicated. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 3 or Grade 4 endocrinopathies until clinically stable or permanently discontinue depending on severity. Thyroiditis occurred in 0.2% (4/1738) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.1%) adverse reactions. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 0.4% (7/1738) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 29% (2/7) of patients with hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurred in 5% (90/1738) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.2%) and Grade 2 (3.7%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 7% (6/90) of patients with hypothyroidism.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated type I diabetes mellitus, which can present with diabetic ketoacidosis. Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 3 or Grade 4 endocrinopathies until clinically stable or permanently discontinue depending on severity. Immune-mediated type I diabetes mellitus occurred in 0.1% (2/1738) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.1%) adverse reactions.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated nephritis with renal dysfunction. Withhold BAVENCIO for Grade 2 or Grade 3, and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 increased blood creatinine. Immune-mediated nephritis with renal dysfunction occurred in 0.1% (1/1738) of patients, which was a Grade 2 (0.1%) adverse reaction. Systemic corticosteroids were required in this patient.

BAVENCIO can cause immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions, including rash or dermatitis. Exfoliative dermatitis including Stevens Johnson Syndrome (SJS), drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), has occurred with PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-exfoliative rashes. Withhold BAVENCIO for suspected and permanently discontinue for confirmed SJS, TEN, or DRESS. Immune-mediated dermatologic adverse reactions occurred in 5% (90/1738) of patients, including Grade 3 (0.1%) and Grade 2 (2.0%) adverse reactions. Systemic corticosteroids were required in 29% (26/90) of patients with dermatologic adverse reactions.

BAVENCIO can result in other immune-mediated adverse reactions. Other clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of

BAVENCIO can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Premedicate patients with an antihistamine and acetaminophen prior to the first 4 infusions and for subsequent infusions based upon clinical judgment and presence/severity of prior infusion reactions. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions, including pyrexia, chills, flushing, hypotension, dyspnea, wheezing, back pain, abdominal pain, and urticaria. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion for Grade 1 or Grade 2 infusion-related reactions. Permanently discontinue BAVENCIO for Grade 3 or Grade 4 infusion-related reactions. Infusion-related reactions occurred in 25% of patients, including three (0.2%) Grade 4 and nine (0.5%) Grade 3 infusion-related reactions. Eleven (92%) of the 12 patients with Grade 3 reactions were treated with intravenous corticosteroids.

Fatal and other serious complications of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) can occur in patients who receive HSCT before or after being treated with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody. Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/PD-L1 blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT.

BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib can cause major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including severe and fatal events. Consider baseline and periodic evaluations of left ventricular ejection fraction. Monitor for signs and symptoms of cardiovascular events. Optimize management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. Permanently discontinue BAVENCIO and axitinib for Grade 3-4 cardiovascular events. MACE occurred in 7% of patients with advanced RCC treated with BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib compared to 3.4% treated with sunitinib in a randomized trial. These events included death due to cardiac events (1.4%), Grade 3-4 myocardial infarction (2.8%), and Grade 3-4 congestive heart failure (1.8%).

BAVENCIO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise patients of the potential risk to a fetus including the risk of fetal death. Advise females of childbearing potential to use effective contraception during treatment with BAVENCIO and for at least 1 month after the last dose of BAVENCIO. It is not known whether BAVENCIO is excreted in human milk. Advise a lactating woman not to breastfeed during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose of BAVENCIO due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants.

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, 20%) in patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) were fatigue (50%), musculoskeletal pain (32%), diarrhea (23%), nausea (22%), infusion-related reaction (22%), rash (22%), decreased appetite (20%), and peripheral edema (20%).

Selected treatment-emergent laboratory abnormalities (all grades, 20%) in patients with metastatic MCC were lymphopenia (49%), anemia (35%), increased aspartate aminotransferase (34%), thrombocytopenia (27%), and increased alanine aminotransferase (20%).

A fatal adverse reaction (sepsis) occurred in one (0.3%) patient with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) receiving BAVENCIO + best supportive care (BSC) as first-line maintenance treatment. In patients with previously treated locally advanced or metastatic UC, fourteen patients (6%) who were treated with BAVENCIO experienced either pneumonitis, respiratory failure, sepsis/urosepsis, cerebrovascular accident, or gastrointestinal adverse events, which led to death.

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, 20%) in patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC receiving BAVENCIO + BSC (vs BSC alone) as first-line maintenance treatment were fatigue (35% vs 13%), musculoskeletal pain (24% vs 15%), urinary tract infection (20% vs 11%), and rash (20% vs 2.3%). In patients with previously treated locally advanced or metastatic UC receiving BAVENCIO, the most common adverse reactions (all grades, 20%) were fatigue, infusion-related reaction, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, decreased appetite, and urinary tract infection.

Selected laboratory abnormalities (all grades, 20%) in patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC receiving BAVENCIO + BSC (vs BSC alone) as first-line maintenance treatment were blood triglycerides increased (34% vs 28%), alkaline phosphatase increased (30% vs 20%), blood sodium decreased (28% vs 20%), lipase increased (25% vs 16%), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) increased (24% vs 12%), blood potassium increased (24% vs 16%), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) increased (24% vs 12%), blood cholesterol increased (22% vs 16%), serum amylase increased (21% vs 12%), hemoglobin decreased (28% vs 18%), and white blood cell decreased (20% vs 10%).

Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1.8% of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) receiving BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib. These included sudden cardiac death (1.2%), stroke (0.2%), myocarditis (0.2%), and necrotizing pancreatitis (0.2%).

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, 20%) in patients with advanced RCC receiving BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib (vs sunitinib) were diarrhea (62% vs 48%), fatigue (53% vs 54%), hypertension (50% vs 36%), musculoskeletal pain (40% vs 33%), nausea (34% vs 39%), mucositis (34% vs 35%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (33% vs 34%), dysphonia (31% vs 3.2%), decreased appetite (26% vs 29%), hypothyroidism (25% vs 14%), rash (25% vs 16%), hepatotoxicity (24% vs 18%), cough (23% vs 19%), dyspnea (23% vs 16%), abdominal pain (22% vs 19%), and headache (21% vs 16%).

Selected laboratory abnormalities (all grades, 20%) worsening from baseline in patients with advanced RCC receiving BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib (vs sunitinib) were blood triglycerides increased (71% vs 48%), blood creatinine increased (62% vs 68%), blood cholesterol increased (57% vs 22%), alanine aminotransferase increased (ALT) (50% vs 46%), aspartate aminotransferase increased (AST) (47% vs 57%), blood sodium decreased (38% vs 37%), lipase increased (37% vs 25%), blood potassium increased (35% vs 28%), platelet count decreased (27% vs 80%), blood bilirubin increased (21% vs 23%), and hemoglobin decreased (21% vs 65%).

Please see full US Prescribing Information and Medication Guide available at http://www.BAVENCIO.com.

About EMD Serono, Inc.

EMD Serono - the healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the U.S. and Canada - aspires to create, improve and prolong life for people living with difficult-to-treat conditions like infertility, multiple sclerosis and cancer. The business is imagining the future of healthcare by working to translate the discovery of molecules into potentially meaningful outcomes for people with serious unmet medical needs. EMD Seronos global roots go back more than 350 years with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. Today, the business has approximately 1,500 employees around the country with commercial, clinical and research operations in Massachusetts. www.emdserono.com

About Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. More than 64,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of peoples lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices  the company is everywhere. In 2022, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, generated sales of  22.2 billion in 66 countries.

The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark Merck internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, operate as MilliporeSigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare and EMD Electronics in electronics. Since its founding in 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the companys technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company.

References

Sung H, et al. Global cancer statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. 2021;0:141. SEER. Cancer stat facts: bladder cancer. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/urinb.html. Accessed February 2022. Cancer.net. Bladder cancer: introduction. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/bladder-cancer/introduction. Accessed February 2022. American Cancer Society. What is bladder cancer? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/about/what-is-bladder-cancer.html. Accessed February 2022. Cheeseman S, et al. Current treatment and outcomes benchmark for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer from a large UK-based single centre. Front Oncol. 2020;10:167. Boyerinas B, Jochems C, Fantini M, et al. Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity activity of a novel anti-PD-L1 antibody avelumab (MSB0010718C) on human tumor cells. Cancer Immunol Res. 2015;3(10):1148-1157. Dolan DE, Gupta S. PD-1 pathway inhibitors: changing the landscape of cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Control. 2014;21(3):231-237. Dahan R, Sega E, Engelhardt J, et al. FcRs modulate the anti-tumor activity of antibodies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Cancer Cell. 2015;28(3):285-295.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122986123/en/

[email protected]

Phone: +1 (781) 427-4351

Source: EMD Serono
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, January 22. Trade turnover between Kyrgyzstan and European countries reached $1.8 billion (13.4 percent of Kyrgyzstans total trade) from January through November 2023, which is a 3.3 times increase compared to the corresponding months in 2022 ($548.7 million), Trend reports.

According to the State Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, the country's exports to Europe amounted to $856.1 million, constituting 30.5 percent of Kyrgyzstans total exports. This figure surged by 10.3 times compared to January-November 2022 ($83.01 million).

Kyrgyzstans imports from European countries totaled $1.008 billion, which is a 2.1 times increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022 ($465.7 million). This accounted for 9.1 percent of Kyrgyzstans total imports from January through November 2023.

Overall, Kyrgyzstan's foreign trade turnover reached $13.9 billion from January through November 2023, which is a 29 percent increase compared to the same period in 2022 ($10.7 billion).

Kyrgyzstan's exports totaled $2.8 billion, which is a 36.7 percent growth compared to the corresponding period in 2022 ($2.05 billion). The country's imports amounted to $11.1 billion, increasing by 27.2 percent compared to the same period in 2022 ($8.7 billion).
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- SugarCRM, provider of the award-winning AI-driven sales automation platform, today announced the global winners of the 2024 SugarCRM Customer Breakthrough Awards.

Winners are:

Customer Experience Breakthrough Award  Empresas ADOC, a Central American retail company, is recognized for using SugarCRM to drive business growth and improve customer engagement.

Using SugarCRM, the company significantly improved customer service quality and customer retention, reduced customer churn while establishing its Puntos ADOC loyalty program that attracted over 600,000 members, representing more than 20 percent of total sales.

ADOC has a rich history of using high-quality materials and specialized techniques to produce outstanding products that meet the needs of its customers. ADOC is a customer-driven business supported by a culture dedicated to enhancing customer satisfaction and building strong, lasting customer relationships. In addition to its own branded footwear, ADOC also has partnered with international brands, including Hush Puppies, The North Face, CAT, and Steve Madden, to create a complete shopping experience for its customers.

Industry Excellence Breakthrough Award  Reusable Transport Packaging, a leader in sustainable transport packaging solutions, is recognized for using SugarCRM to improve its bottom line, unify customer data, streamline processes, and increase sales efficiency, resulting in a 20 percent revenue growth year over year. A key strategy in its growth is the use of Sugar Market for regular email communications, which keeps customers, distributors, and leads informed about new products, pricing updates, and other relevant industry news.

Marketing Excellence Breakthrough Award  The Swedish Institute (SI), a Swedish government agency, is recognized for its innovative approach to data management and customer engagement. The Sugar Sell and Sugar Market platform integration centralizes data, segments audiences, and automates responses, significantly enhancing marketing efficiency and improving engagement with international students and alumni. The Swedish Institute saw an increase of over 31 percent in lead volume since implementing SugarCRM and boasts a best-in-class 40-to-50 percent open rate on marketing emails.

Sales Excellence Breakthrough Award  J&J Ventures Gaming, LLC, a leader in gaming and amusements and one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., is recognized for implementing Sugar Sell to consolidate customer accounts and interactions into a centralized communication hub across sales, marketing, and account management. Streamlined sales processes have established a new model for sales excellence for the J&J team and its growth in the gaming industry.

Service Excellence Breakthrough Award  Super General Company of the Albatha Group in the UAE is recognized for revolutionizing its service operations with Sugar Serve. Working with Sugar partner Ambit Software, Super General successfully implemented a repair and maintenance service platform, including a field management application for efficient case handling and simplified technician dispatching. Due to increased efficiency and workload management, the number of cases per technician has surged by up to 26 percent, alongside a 10 percent increase in first-time fix rates. Other notable achievements include a significant increase in call closure rates and substantial improvements in customer satisfaction scores.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (Asia Pacific)  zazen Water, a provider of alkaline water solutions in Australia, is recognized for its use of SugarCRM to support business growth and customer satisfaction. Through strategic integrations, zazen Water automated its business and customer service operations to streamline high-order volume processing. Notably, during its Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 campaign, zazen Water managed a significant order peak, accomplishing its same-day dispatch promise, which, prior to automation and integration projects, would have required 16 employees.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (EMEA)  FAMO GmbH & Co. KG, a German wholesaler of electrical and plumbing products, is recognized for its collaboration with Sugar partner Insignio to deploy SugarCRM for advanced customer data management and opportunity nurturing, the Sugar mobile app with enterprise resource planning (ERP) data integration for field sales support, and Sugar Market for automated newsletters and targeted communications.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (Latin America)  Mac Construtora e Incorporadora (MAC), a leader in construction and development in Sao Paulo, is recognized for the creative use of SugarCRM in the dynamic real estate market. Technology adoption significantly improved lead management and customer engagement, enhancing marketing approaches and project sales, resulting in a substantial increase in sales, ranging from 50 to 94 percent of its real estate agency. This has led to MAC substantially reducing its dependence on partnering with other real estate agencies.

Customer of the Year Breakthrough Award (North America)  Alto-Shaam, providing foodservice equipment solutions to more than 90 countries globally, is recognized for use of SugarCRM to significantly enhance opportunity close rates by 61 percent while achieving up to 600 hours of time savings in marketing and sales efforts to forecast customer needs. The integration of Sugar Sell with Sugar Market has streamlined key processes, improved lead management, and enhanced operational efficiency and global communication.

ISV Technology Partnership Breakthrough Award  FSIoffice, a leading independent office supply company, together with sales-i, are recognized for transforming FSIoffices CRM strategy from data repository to sales powerhouse, with 40 percent improved sales efficiency. Supported by Sugar partner CRM International, FSIoffice is driving remarkable revenue growth and enhancing customer engagement with Sugar Sell Premier and sales-i for predictive business-to-business sales intelligence.

Reseller Technology Partnership Breakthrough Award  The Joint Corp., the nations largest provider of chiropractic care through The Joint Chiropractic network, in partnership with Sugar partner Faye, are recognized for driving significant improvements in healthcare operations after transitioning to SugarCRM and Amazon Web Services, with a 40 percent increase in web transaction speed. This transformation allowed The Joint to focus on integrating AI to elevate SugarCRM from a functional tool to a strategic platform for competitive differentiation in the chiropractic care sector.

Judges Choice Award  RTCR, the public transit provider in La Rochelle, France, operating under the Yelo brand, is recognized for significantly enhancing customer service with Sugar Serve, with implementation support by Sugar partner Synolia. The deployment has led to a minimum three percent increase in customer satisfaction and streamlined complaint management, saving agents time by 50 percent through improved response structuring.

Were pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 SugarCRM Customer Breakthrough Awards, said Chris Pennington, Chief Customer Officer, SugarCRM. These customers and partners are recognized for excellence and innovation in letting Sugars AI-driven CRM platform do the work to make the hard things easier for sales, marketing and service professionals, and for driving breakthrough success and exceptional customer experiences.

About SugarCRM

SugarCRM is a CRM software that helps marketing, sales, and service teams reach peak efficiency through better automation, data, and intelligence so they can achieve a real-time, reliable view of each customer. Sugars platform provides leading technology in the sales automation, marketing automation, and customer service fields with one goal in mind: to make the hard things easier.

Thousands of companies in over 120 countries rely on Sugar by letting the platform do the work. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sugar is backed by Accel-KKR.

For more information about SugarCRM, visit: www.sugarcrm.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240122172335/en/

Erin Lutz

Lutz Public Relations and Marketing (for SugarCRM)

[email protected]

949.293.1055

Sarita Kincaid

Vice President, Corporate Communications, SugarCRM

[email protected]

408.913.2090

Source: SugarCRM
Boeing (NYSE: BA) shares fell 3% in premarket trading Monday following the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) recommendation for door plug inspections on the Boeing 737-900ER model.

This suggestion comes in the wake of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) grounding of 171 Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes after a mid-air cabin blowout incident earlier in January.

The FAA's recent directive urges operators of the 737-900ER to visually inspect mid-exit door plugs to ensure proper security.

Despite not belonging to the newer MAX fleet, the 737-900ER shares the same optional door plug design as the MAX, facilitating the addition of an extra emergency exit door when needed.

The FAA's safety alert disclosed that some airlines conducting additional inspections on the 737-900ER mid-exit door plugs found issues with bolts during maintenance inspections.

Shares in Boeing supplier Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE: SPR) fell 2% in response to the news.

By Senad Karaahmetovic
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) delivered the first of eight C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters to the Georgia Air National Guard during a ceremony today, commemorating a new era in Hercules operations for this longtime C-130 Hercules operator.

The 165th Airlift Wing  the first C-130 operator in the state of Georgia  received its initial Hercules in 1975 and has operated several variants over the years. The Savannah -based unit will now operate the C-130J-30 Super Hercules, which offers unprecedented power, space, integration and versatility.

"Today's delivery of this C-130J-30 Super Hercules is another symbol of Lockheed Martin's long-term commitment to the Hercules' home state. On behalf of our 6,000+ Georgia employees, it is an honor to deliver this Georgia -built, Georgia -flown aircraft to Savannah's 165th Airlift Wing," said Rod McLean , vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin's Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business and its Marietta production site. "The addition of the C-130J Super Hercules, the most advanced Hercules ever produced, to the Georgia Air National Guard's fleet enables its crews deliver hope and help  all over the world for many years to come."

The 165th Airlift Wing has the distinction of operating the first all-C-130J-30 Super Hercules fleet in Georgia . Its crews will rely on the C-130J-30  the stretch version of the C-130J that adds 15 feet of cargo space  to support strategic and tactical airlift mission requirements.

"Marty, the girls and I are grateful for the service and dedication of the men and women of the Georgia Air National Guard every day," Gov. Brian Kemp said. "Today's delivery of a C-130J-30 Super Hercules means our brave servicemembers will now fly the most advanced Hercules aircraft in history, proudly built right here in the State of Georgia at Lockheed Martin's historic Marietta manufacturing facility. I'm proud the longest continuously produced military aircraft in American history is now both Georgia -built and Georgia -flown, supporting our state's continued growth as a national leader in military, defense and aerospace."

The C-130J Super Hercules is Georgia's aerospace ambassador to the world, with almost 2.7 million flight hours and a $2 billion annual investment into the Georgia economy, which includes 18 Georgia-based suppliers.

"I join with Maj. Gen. Carden , Maj. Gen. Crumbly , the Lockheed Martin team, IAM Local 709 and the entire community in celebrating the delivery of this new C-130J for our Georgia Air National Guard. In 2022, Sen. Warnock and I added funding for 16 new C-130J aircraft and an additional 16 in 2023. I will continue to champion the C-130J program in Congress, and this new aircraft will help our National Guard defend the United States ," U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff said.

This delivery marks the first U.S. Air Force C-130J-30 aircraft to receive the Block 8.1 configuration during its initial production. The Block 8.1 configuration improves interoperability across the fleet with features such as a new flight management system, enhanced navigation and inter-communication systems and updated friend-or-foe identification.

"Since I came to Congress, I have fiercely advocated for increased C-130 procurement, due to its importance in strengthening our national security. The C-130J Super Hercules is the most capable airlifter in the world. Every aircraft made represents the hard work of 5,500 Georgians at Lockheed Martin's Marietta facility located right here in the 11th Congressional District ," U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) said. "This new aircraft also represents a major increase in capability for the men and women of Georgia's Air National Guard, who will now count the most advanced C-130 ever built as part of its newest fleet. I want to thank Georgia Adjutant General Thomas Carden for his partnership in securing this major victory for Georgia and our nation."

The U.S. Air National Guard, which has one of the most visible and active C-130 fleets in the world, continues to operate a mixed C-130J and C-130H fleet. The addition of the C-130J-30 Super Hercules to the Air National Guard fleet ensures these crews will continue to support the Guard's motto of "Always Ready, Always There" for decades to come.

"The future is now, and the Georgia National Guard is more prepared than ever to answer the call with the cutting-edge, C-130J Super Hercules-enabled airlift. I'm so proud of the Airmen at 165th Airlift Wing and thankful to all those our who have worked tirelessly to make this happen," said Maj. Gen. Tom Carden , adjutant general of the Georgia Department of Defense.

The C-130J Super Hercules is the proven standard in tactical airlift, providing a unique mix of versatility and performance to complete any mission, anytime, anywhere. To date, 26 operators in 22 nations are part of the C-130J global fleet. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 530 C-130J Super Hercules in 18 mission variants.
TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Centerra Gold Inc. (Centerra or the Company) (TSX: CG) (NYSE: CGAU) announces that Ryan Snyder will be promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective April 8, 2024. Mr. Snyder will succeed Darren Millman, who is leaving to pursue another opportunity in the mining industry in Australia.



Mr. Snyder is currently Centerras Vice President, Finance. He joined Centerra in May 2022 and brings over 15 years of experience in financial management in the mining industry. Prior to Centerra, Ryan was CFO of Electra Battery Materials Corporation from 2018 to 2022 and CFO of Primero Mining Corporation from 2017 to 2018. He previously held key financial roles at numerous resource companies, including 5 years in operations finance with Inmet Mining Corporation. Ryan started his career with KPMG in Toronto in 2005. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Queens University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant.

President and CEO, Paul Tomory, commented, Darren has made a significant contribution to Centerra over the past 11 years. He built a high performing team committed to financial discipline and maintaining a strong balance sheet. On behalf of Centerras Board and leadership team, I would like to thank Darren for his hard work and dedication, and wish him and his family well as they relocate back home to Australia.

Ryan has been with Centerra for almost two years as Vice President, Finance, working very closely with Darren as the identified successor to the CFO role. He is well positioned to maintain the robust balance sheet of Centerra and ensure the financial discipline that will help deliver long-term value to all our stakeholders.

About Centerra Gold

Centerra Gold Inc. is a Canadian-based gold mining company focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring gold and copper properties in North America, Turkiye, and other markets worldwide. Centerra operates two mines: the Mount Milligan Mine in British Columbia, Canada, and the Oksut Mine in Turkiye. The Company also owns the Goldfield District Project in Nevada, United States, the Kemess Project in British Columbia, Canada, and owns and operates the Molybdenum Business Unit in the United States and Canada. Centerras shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CG and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol CGAU. The Company is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

For more information:

Lisa Wilkinson

Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Communications

(416) 204-3780

[email protected]



Additional information on Centerra is available on the Companys website at www.centerragold.com and at SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.




Toronto, Ontario, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Diabetes Canada is proud to announce the winners of its End Diabetes Awards, an annual competition that aims to dramatically improve the lives of people living with or at risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes through innovative research. Each research project receives a $100,000 grant annually for three years for a total of $6.2 million in funds committed by Diabetes Canada for the research community. To achieve our vision of a world free of the effects of diabetes, Diabetes Canada knows that it needs to harness the transformative and combined power of technological, medical, and scientific research, says Laura Syron, President and CEO of Diabetes Canada. Since 1975, this research grant competition has helped ensure that Canada is a global leader in research into new breakthroughs in diabetes screening, treatments and care to help improve the lives of the nearly 12 million people in Canada who live with diabetes or prediabetes.

Spanning biomedical, clinical, health services and population health research, each winning project has the potential to unlock new insights and breakthroughs in the field of diabetes management, care, and risk-reduction. Among the exciting projects funded in this years competition, here are a few highlights:

A research project, led by Dr. Ian Zenlea , is exploring community-based type 2 diabetes prevention interventions that are family-based and culturally sensitive to Black, African and Caribbean communitiescommunities who have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and related complications.

, is exploring community-based type 2 diabetes prevention interventions that are family-based and culturally sensitive to Black, African and Caribbean communitiescommunities who have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and related complications. More and more younger people across Canada have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes over the last two decades, greatly increasing the risk of severe complications in early adulthood. Dr. Joseph Gordon and his team are testing whether a protein found in muscle cells called Nix can protect against insulin resistance, and the changes that happen when diabetes develops.

and his team are testing whether a protein found in muscle cells called Nix can protect against insulin resistance, and the changes that happen when diabetes develops. Leg and foot wounds from diabetes-related complications account for more than 70% of lower limb losses in Canada, but a research project, led by Dr. Nicole Woods , is looking to improve the prevention and early treatment of diabetes related foot wounds for structurally disadvantaged Ontarians living with diabetes.

, is looking to improve the prevention and early treatment of diabetes related foot wounds for structurally disadvantaged Ontarians living with diabetes. Dr. Rayzel Shulmans project is piloting a diabetes awareness campaign focused on elementary school educators, caregivers, and heath care providers training them to notice the signs of diabetes and diabetes ketoacidosisa serious and life-threatening conditionensuring children get the timely care they need.

The winning research projects for this years Diabetes Canadas End Diabetes Awards were rigorously evaluated by scientists with expertise in diabetes research, with input from people with lived experience, and Diabetes Canadas National Research Council.

The most important part of practicing medicine is when we can use evidence-based ways to inform care and intervene to improve the lives of individuals who live with health issues like diabetesthat doesnt happen without research. Diabetes Canada funding makes research and therefore healthcare possible, directly benefiting people living with diabetes, says Dr. Brandy Wicklow, Co-Chair of Diabetes Canadas National Research Council.

For almost 50 years, Diabetes Canada has proudly supported outstanding diabetes research in Canada, administering more than $160 million in research grants, awards and partnerships to scientists and clinicians who have dedicated their careers to the fight against diabetes.

We are grateful for the support of our incredible community of donors, without which this research funding would not be possible. On behalf of Diabetes Canada and the nearly 1 in 3 people who live with diabetes or prediabetes in this country, your meaningful investment in the health of those who live with diabetes is making an impact, says Syron, who lives with type 2 diabetes herself.

Currently, Diabetes Canadas financial commitment to research supports over 260 researchers at 20 different research institutions across the country.

Watch our video announcement featuring Laura Syron, President and CEO of Diabetes Canada.

Learn more about this years winning research projects.

About Diabetes Canada

A world free of the effects of diabetes is our vision. Thats why were working together to improve the quality of life of people living with diabetes. Were sharing knowledge and creating connections for individuals and the health-care professionals who care for them; advocating through public policy; and funding research to improve treatments and find a cure to end diabetes.

Attachment

Lindsay Kwan, Senior Manager, Communications and PR Diabetes Canada 416-408-7103 [email protected]

Source: Diabetes Canada
MIDDLETON, Wis., Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fengate Private Equity (Fengate), a division of Fengate Asset Management, today announced it has completed the acquisition of Saco Foods Holdings, LLC (Saco or the Company) from Benford Capital Partners. Fengate is partnering with Weathervane Investment Corp. (Weathervane) to support continued growth of the Company, and is managing this investment on behalf of the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada.



This acquisition represents the first United States platform investment for Fengate Private Equity. The existing management team, led by CEO Tom Walzer, will continue to retain a significant equity interest in the Company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Saco was founded in 1973 by Ray Sanna, with his father and brother, as a product innovator in staple food categories. The Sanna family sold the Company to Tom Walzer in 2014; Tom then recapitalized the business in partnership with Benford Capital Partners in 2016. Under Tom Walzers leadership over the last ten years, Saco has grown into a diversified and rapidly expanding portfolio of leading shelf-stable food brands: Dolci Frutta, the #1 brand in confectionary chocolate coatings; California Sun Dry, the #1 brand in sun-dried tomato food products; Saco Pantry, a leader in instant dry milk products and complementary baking ingredients; Solo Foods, a century-old staple in toppings, pastes and fillings; and Hoosier Hill Farm, a pioneer in online and direct-to-consumer food offerings.

We are excited to back Tom and his team, who have built a strong portfolio of leading brands that sit at the intersection of quality, heritage and convenience, says Jennifer Pereira, Managing Director, Group Head of Private Equity at Fengate. In the food and beverage sector, Saco is an excellent fit with our strategy of backing strong management teams and investing in trusted and enduring products with ample whitespace for growth.

Pereira added, Alongside our partners at Weathervane and management, we look forward to supporting the continued growth of the Companys existing brands through new product innovation, expanding into new categories and channels, and further building the platform through acquisitions. This also marks our first private equity investment in the U.S. and we look forward to growing our presence across North America.

This is our first partnership with Fengate, and with our like-minded investment philosophy, we are ambitious in expanding this business together with the experienced management team at Saco, adds Matt Wubs, Partner and Co-Founder of Weathervane Investments.

"Saco Foods is excited to partner with Fengate and Weathervane to sponsor the Company's next chapter of growth," said Tom Walzer, CEO of Saco Foods. "With our aligned vision and values, we believe this partnership will maintain and expand upon our entrepreneurial spirit and our commitment to quality."

Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal advisor for the purchasers and Royal Bank of Canada provided debt financing. Ice Miller LLP served as legal advisor for Benford Capital Partners, while TM Capital served as Sacos financial advisor.

About Saco Foods:

Saco Foods, founded in 1973 and headquartered in Middleton, WI, is a branded niche market-leading food products company selling primarily through supermarkets, mass retailers and ecommerce channels in the U.S. Saco Foods has a portfolio of leading shelf stable brands including Saco Pantry, Dolci Frutta, California Sun Dry, Hoosier Hill Farm and recently acquired Solo Foods. Saco is recognized for its commitment to quality and unique, innovative products, which has helped the company establish consistent, long-term shelf placement with its top customers. Learn more at www.sacofoods.com.

About Fengate Asset Management:

Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager, with more than $8 billion of capital commitments under management, focused on private equity, infrastructure and real estate strategies. With offices in Ontario and Texas and team members across North America, Fengate leverages 50 years of entrepreneurial experience to deliver excellent investment results on behalf of its clients. Fengate Private Equity, a division of Fengate Asset Management, is a differentiated investment platform supporting the growth ambitions of entrepreneurs through transformative capital. Learn more at www.fengate.com.

About LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada:

Established in 1972, the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada (LPFCEC) is one of the fastest growing multi-employer pension funds across Canada, voted top 10 pension funds by Benefits Canada. With a diverse investment portfolio and over $12 billion in assets, LPFCEC has yielded positive returns for the plan, great work opportunities for LiUNA members, and has created many needed institutions across North America through a broad range of investments. Learn more at www.lpfcec.org.

About Weathervane Investments:

Weathervane Investments is a Vancouver-based private equity fund, backed by committed capital from the Wubs family. The founding Partners of Weathervane bring operational, transaction and investing expertise to the platform, with the intention of leveraging those skillsets to support businesses looking to reach the next level of growth. Learn more at www.weathervaneinvestments.ca.

Images accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0b5ff1fe-02dd-4ff3-9654-9e9d47e66ed8

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bb3b4fd5-30af-47f1-9fd1-2ed3a602791b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43a72d59-4918-42f7-8262-596428386fe5
MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freddie Mac (OTCQB: FMCC) Multifamily today announced its 2023 volume totaled over $49 billion, including $48.3 billion in multifamily financing and over $883 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity investments. The company met its mission-driven affordable housing targets, supporting 423,177 affordable rental units across the United States. The Freddie Mac data released today indicates that the company will achieve all of its 2023 Multifamily affordable housing goals set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).

A total of 66% of 2023 production volume qualified as mission-driven affordable housing, far exceeding the 50% goal set by FHFA. More than 67% of goal-eligible units financed through loan acquisitions were affordable to low-income residents earning less than 80% of area median income (AMI) and more than 20% were affordable to very low-income residents with incomes no greater than 50% of AMI, surpassing both goals. In total, 92% of all units financed in 2023 were affordable at or below 120% of AMI.

In 2023, Freddie Mac Multifamily was proud to again surpass our ambitious affordable housing goals, despite significant headwinds facing the overall market, said Kevin Palmer, head of Multifamily for Freddie Mac. That is a credit to our team, our Optigo lenders and their borrowers. We continue to be focused on and driven by all aspects of our mission. In addition to supporting affordability, in a difficult market like this one, when other liquidity providers step back, Freddie Mac Multifamily remains a steady provider of market rate loans, helping to support liquidity and stability in all market conditions.

With more than $883 million in LIHTC equity investments in 2023, Freddie Mac achieved its LIHTC equity Duty to Serve target, aligning with FHFAs decision to increase the LIHTC equity cap for 2024. Since 2018, Freddie Mac Multifamily has committed over $4 billion in LIHTC equity, ensuring nearly 30,000 units of affordable housing were created or preserved.

In 2023, Freddie Mac Multifamily helped to create and preserve affordable rental housing by funding a record $2.6 billion in forward conversions, which supported more than 21,000 newly constructed or rehabilitated affordable units. In addition, Freddie Mac Multifamily issued new commitments to fund $2.3 billion in future years, supporting over 22,000 units that will be constructed or rehabilitated. The forward program enhances the supply of new and rehabilitated affordable housing by providing certainty of permanent financing, even in volatile markets.

In addition, Freddie Mac Multifamily financed more than $13 billion in Targeted Affordable Housing in 2023, supporting nearly 108,000 rent-restricted affordable units. As Freddie Mac Multifamily works to advance resident-centered housing, 2023 marked a milestone in financing nearly 29,000 manufactured housing community pads with tenant protections that met or exceeded the standards laid out in its Duty to Serve Plan.

Palmer added, In a housing market where affordability continues to be a major impediment for consumers, our team financed more than 423,000 affordable rental units. We are proud of our ability to help hundreds of thousands of families live in a place they can call home.

About Us

Freddie Mac Multifamily is a national multifamily housing finance leader. Historically, more than 90% of the eligible rental units we fund are affordable to families with low-to-moderate incomes earning up to 120% of area median income. Freddie Mac securitizes more than 90% of the multifamily loans it purchases, transferring interest-rate risk, liquidity risk, and the majority of expected credit risk away from U.S. taxpayers to private investors.

Freddie Macs mission is to make home possible for families across the nation. We promote liquidity, stability, affordability and equity in the housing market throughout all economic cycles. Since 1970, we have helped tens of millions of families buy, rent or keep their home. Learn More: Website | Consumers | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Silverman703-388-7037[email protected]

Source: Freddie Mac
SAN DIEGO, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers or acquirers of ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CHPT) securities between June 1, 2023 and November 16, 2023, all dates inclusive (the Class Period), have until January 29, 2024 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the ChargePoint class action lawsuit. Captioned Khan v. ChargePoint Holdings, Inc., No. 23-cv-06172 (N.D. Cal.), the ChargePoint class action lawsuit charges ChargePoint as well as certain of its top executive officers with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.



If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the ChargePoint class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-chargepoint-holdings-inc-class-action-lawsuit-chpt.html

You can also contact attorney J.C. Sanchez of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at [email protected].

CASE ALLEGATIONS: The ChargePoint class action lawsuit alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) ChargePoint was experiencing higher component costs and supply overruns for first generation DC charging products; (ii) as a result, ChargePoint was likely to incur impairment charges; and (iii) consequently, ChargePoints profitability would be adversely impacted.

The ChargePoint class action lawsuit further alleges that on September 6, 2023, ChargePoint reported second quarter of fiscal year 2024 financial results, including a $28.0 million, or 19 percentage point, inventory impairment charge that was taken to address legacy supply chain-related costs and supply overruns on a particular DC product. As a result, ChargePoint reported a second quarter GAAP gross margin of 1%, down from 17% in the prior years same quarter, according to the complaint. The ChargePoint class action lawsuit alleges that on this news, the price of ChargePoint stock fell nearly 11%.

Then, on November 16, 2023, ChargePoint announced preliminary financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, which would include an additional non-cash inventory impairment charge in the amount of $42 million related to product transitions and to better align inventory with current demand, the complaint further alleges. ChargePoint expected to report GAAP gross margin of negative 23% to negative 21% and further reported revenue had fallen to $108 million to $113 million, as compared to $150 to $165 million as previously expected, according to the complaint. The complaint also alleges that ChargePoints Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer were both replaced, effective immediately. The ChargePoint class action lawsuit alleges that on this news, the price of ChargePoint stock fell more than 35%.

THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired ChargePoint securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the ChargePoint class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the ChargePoint class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the ChargePoint class action lawsuit. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the ChargePoint class action lawsuit.

ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller is one of the worlds leading complex class action firms representing plaintiffs in securities fraud cases. The Firm is ranked #1 on the most recent ISS Securities Class Action Services Top 50 Report for recovering more than $1.75 billion for investors in 2022  the third year in a row Robbins Geller tops the list. And in those three years alone, Robbins Geller recovered nearly $5.3 billion for investors, more than double the amount recovered by any other plaintiffs firm. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs firms in the world and the Firms attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest securities class action recovery ever  $7.2 billion  in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/services-litigation-securities-fraud.html

Attorney advertising.

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.

Contact:

Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP

655 W. Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101

J.C. Sanchez, 800-449-4900

[email protected]
Calgary, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aligning with the powerful message of the "#BellLetsTalk" campaign, Money Mentors joins the conversation with "Let's Talk About Debt. This initiative focuses on breaking the stigma surrounding debt, acknowledging its profound impact on mental health, and providing effective solutions through Money Mentors free credit counselling for all Albertans.

In today's economic landscape, as highlighted by the MNP Consumer Debt Index Report, the financial strain on Canadians is more evident than ever. Recognizing that debt is not just a financial issue but also a significant mental health concern, Money Mentors aims to initiate open conversations about debt and its impact on mental wellbeing.

Breaking the Silence: Debt and Mental Health

The connection between financial struggles and mental health issues is undeniable. The stress of mounting debts can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness. On January 24th for Bell Let's Talk Day, Money Mentors encourages individuals to openly discuss their financial challenges, shedding light on the often-overlooked emotional and psychological toll of debt.

Bell's important message, "Lets create real change. Take action all year long," is something we at Money Mentors strongly believe in. We agree that this issue needs ongoing attention, and we want to remind you that our team of non-profit credit counsellors is always here to offer free consultations, no matter the time of year. This continuous support is key to helping people deal with their financial troubles and the related stress and emotional challenges.

Unbiased Support: Money Mentors' Credit Counsellors

At Money Mentors, our team of unbiased credit counsellors is dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance. Understanding that each financial situation is unique, our counsellors offer tailored advice and strategies to navigate through financial challenges, ensuring a judgement-free and supportive environment.

Join the Conversation, Change the Narrative

We invite everyone to be a part of this crucial conversation. By talking openly about debt and its impact on mental health, we can collectively work towards reducing the stigma and encouraging more individuals to seek the help they need. Money Mentors is committed to being a part of this positive change, offering support, guidance, and practical solutions to those in need.

Since 2011, Canadians and people around the globe have joined in the worlds largest conversation around mental health on Bell Lets Talk Day. You can find resources and learn more about organizations providing mental health supports and services throughout Canada at letstalk.bell.ca

Here are some helpful Bell Lets Talk links:

Money Mentors Resources on Mental Health and Debt

Money Mentors invites you to explore our comprehensive resources on mental health and debt, understanding that these topics can be both challenging and sensitive. Remember, one of the most empowering steps you can take is to reach out to us for a free consultation, where we're ready to listen and offer personalized guidance.

About Money Mentors

Money Mentors is the only Alberta-based non-profit credit counselling agency. For more than 25 years, our experienced team of accredited Counsellors have been working with Albertans to help them get out of debt, manage their money, and plan for retirement. Our mission is to educate Albertans in personal money management and the wise use of credit and to provide alternatives for families and individuals facing financial crisis. Were proud of the work we do in our communities. Visit moneymentors.ca to contact an accredited Counsellor or try one of our free online courses.

Tags

#BellLetsTalk #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #Alberta #financialliteracy

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Michele Liang Money Mentors 403-234-6189 [email protected]

Source: Money Mentors
Reston, VA, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CYBER & TECHNOLOGY EVENT ADVISORY

TechNet Emergence, Presented by AFCEA International

March 11-12, 2024

Hyatt Regency, Reston, Virginia

Media Registration

Event Information

ABOUT THE EVENT:Four emerging technologies (1-3 years to full capabilities), and four "horizon" technologies (3-8 years to full capabilities), will be explored in an open forum with key stakeholders from all areas building connections between the Department of Defense (DoD), federal civilian agencies, the intelligence community, tech start-ups, and the venture capital community this March 11-12 in Northern Virginia. Against the backdrop of the US National Science Foundation's upcoming investments in research and development, this event will address the need for a "national innovation strategy."

Emerging technologies include Supply Chain, Data Integrity, Cybersecurity of IoT (Internet of Things), and Quantum Computing.

Horizon technologies include Biotechnology and the Bioeconomy, The Future of Telecommunications, Artifical Intelligence (AI), and Semiconductors and Microelectronics.

Start-ups and early-stage companies will demonstrate their technologies amidst top-tier keynotes and panel discussions. Attendees can count on venture capital and program executives to be on hand to engage participants and hear pitches from tech companies.

Presenters include:

The Honorable Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, U.S. Department of Defense;

Katherine Sixt, Ph.D., Principal Director for Biotechnology, office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, U.S. Department of Defense;

Charles Clancy, Ph.D., Senior VP and CTO, MITRE Labs;

Erwin Gianchandani, Ph.D., Assistant Director, Technology, Innovation, and PartnershipsU.S. National Science Foundation

Tim Gilday, Senior Director, Emerging Technology, General Dynamics Information Technology;

Brian Hack, former Deputy CIO and Deputy Director for Information Technology Enterprise, CIA.

WHY IT'S NEWSWORTHY:

Recent developments in all 8 areas have broad and deep implications for government, military, academia and industry. Meanwhile, nation-states, corporate interests and othergroups view these emerging technologies as competitive advantages or means to be used in information warfare, cyberattacks or for other nefarious purposes. This event connects technologists directly with key leaders representing all eight focus areas before, during and after keynotes and panel presentations, allowing them to be a part of charting a course for the future in terms of investments in and capabilities of cutting-edge technologies.

and capabilities cutting-edge technologies. To deliver on global pacing challenges posed by all 8 focus areas, government and industry must work together. The purpose of this event is to open the discussion of avenues that bring government objectives and industry capabilities together in order to better secure our nation.

ABOUT AFCEA INTERNATIONAL:AFCEA International is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit international professional association that connects people, ideas and solutions globally. Established in 1946, the membership association serves the military, government, industry and academia by developing networking and educational opportunities and providing an ethical forum. This enables military, government, industry and academia to align technology and strategy to meet the needs of those who serve. AFCEA operates under the guidance of a board of directors, international staff and committees. A large network of chapters is managed by a group of regional vice presidents. Join online.

Attachment

Howard Wahlberg AFCEA International (703) 631-6199 [email protected]

Source: AFCEA International
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, January 22. Kyrgyzstan has delivered 111 tons of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, Trend reports.

According to the press service of the Kyrgyz Ministry of Emergency Situations, this assistance is aimed at addressing the aftermath of the largest earthquake in Afghanistan, which occurred on October 7, 2023, claiming thousands of lives.

As per the ministry, the aid included 11 trucks carrying 75 tons of flour, 20 tons of sugar, 5 tons of sunflower oil, 500 beds, an equal number of warm blankets and mattresses, as well as winter clothing, food, and personal hygiene items.

It was noted that Kyrgyz rescuers,having covered nearly 2,700 kilometers, delivered humanitarian aid to those affected by the earthquake and provided medical assistance to residents of the village of Faizabad, located near the Afghan city of Herat. The remaining portion of humanitarian aid was handed over to local authorities.

"Kyrgyzstan expresses condolences for the consequences of the devastating earthquake and takes concrete steps to provide real assistance, offering substantial support with essential provisions," the ministry's statement reads.

On October 7 of the previous year, a powerful earthquake in the Herat province of Afghanistan, near the borders of Iran and Turkmenistan, resulted in the loss of over two thousand lives. Ten thousand people were injured, and thousands of homes were rendered uninhabitable.
ATHENS, Greece, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Okeanis Eco Tankers Corp. (the Company or OET or Okeanis) (NYSE:ECO / OSE:OET), announced the following commercial update:



For Q4 2023, as of the date of this release, the Company anticipates:

Estimated fleetwide Daily Time Charter Equivalent Rate (Daily TCE Rate) of approximately $45,300 per operating day.

Estimated VLCC Daily TCE Rate of $45,200 per operating day, all vessels trading spot.

Estimated Suezmax Daily TCE Rate of $45,500 per operating day, including 147 days fixed on time-charter on two vessels; Estimated Suezmax Daily TCE Rate of $51,800 per operating day relating solely to Suezmax spot days.



Thus far in the first quarter of 2024, as of the date of this release, the Company estimates:

Approximately 61% of the available VLCC spot days have been booked at an average Daily TCE Rate of $76,100 per operating day.

Approximately 41% of the available Suezmax spot days have been booked at an average Daily TCE Rate of $59,300 per operating day.

Daily TCE Rate reconciliation

The Daily TCE Rate is a measure of the average daily revenue performance of a vessel. The Company reports its financial results in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The Daily TCE Rate is not a measure of revenue under U.S. GAAP (i.e., it is a non-GAAP measure) or IFRS and should not be considered as an alternative to, or superior to, any measure of revenue and financial performance presented in accordance with IFRS. We calculate Daily TCE Rate by dividing revenues (time charter and/or voyage charter revenues), less commission and voyage expenses, by the number of operating days during that period. Our calculation of the Daily TCE Rates may not be comparable to that reported by other companies. The Company has not provided a reconciliation of forward-looking Daily TCE Rate because the most directly comparable IFRS measure on a forward-looking basis is not available to the Company without unreasonable effort.

Consistent with industry practice, we use the Daily TCE Rates because it provides a means of comparison between different types of vessel employment and, therefore, assists in evaluating their financial performance and in our decision-making process regarding the deployment and use of our vessels and in evaluating our financial performance. The Daily TCE rate is a non-GAAP and non-IFRS measure. We believe the Daily TCE Rate provides additional meaningful information in conjunction with vessel operating expenses, the most directly comparable GAAP and IFRS measure, because it assists our management in making decisions regarding the deployment and use of our vessels and in evaluating their financial performance. The Daily TCE Rate is a measure used to compare period-to-period changes in a companys performance and management believes that the Daily TCE Rate provides meaningful information to our investors.

The following table sets forth our computation of Daily TCE Rate, including a reconciliation of revenues to the Daily TCE Rate for Q4 2023:

(in USD million, except per day data):

Revenue $ 91.67 Voyage expenses $ 32.23 Commissions $ 1.03 Time charter equivalent revenue $ 58.41 Calendar days 1,288 Off-hire days - Operating days 1,288 Daily TCE Rate $ per day 45,300

The Company has not finalized its financial statement closing process for the year ended December 31, 2023. During the course of that process, the Company may identify items that would require it to make adjustments, which may be material to the information provided above. As a result, the information above constitutes forward-looking statements and is subject to risks and uncertainties, including possible adjustments to the preliminary results disclosed above.

Contacts

Company

Iraklis Sbarounis, CFO

Tel: +30 210 480 4200

[email protected]

Investor Relations / Media Contact

Nicolas Bornozis, President

Capital Link, Inc.

230 Park Avenue, Suite 1540, New York, N.Y. 10169

Tel: +1 (212) 661-7566

[email protected]

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

About OET

OET is a leading international tanker company providing seaborne transportation of crude oil and refined products. The Company was incorporated on April 30, 2018 under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and is listed on Oslo Brs under the symbol OET and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ECO. The sailing fleet consists of six modern scrubber-fitted Suezmax tankers and eight modern scrubber-fitted VLCC tankers.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements, including as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements provide the Companys current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements include statements about the Companys expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts or that are not present facts or conditions. Words or phrases such as anticipate, believe, continue, estimate, expect, hope, intend, may, ongoing, plan, potential, predict, project, should, will or similar words or phrases, or the negatives of those words or phrases, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected or implied by the forward-looking statements. The Companys actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements for many reasons, including as described in the Companys filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, you should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this communication. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the Company's operating or financial results; the Company's liquidity, including its ability to service its indebtedness; competitive factors in the market in which the Company operates; shipping industry trends, including charter rates, vessel values and factors affecting vessel supply and demand; future, pending or recent acquisitions and dispositions, business strategy, areas of possible expansion or contraction, and expected capital spending or operating expenses; risks associated with operations; broader market impacts arising from war (or threatened war) or international hostilities; risks associated with pandemics (including COVID-19), including effects on demand for oil and other products transported by tankers and the transportation thereof; and other factors listed from time to time in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Except to the extent required by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based. You should, however, review the factors and risks the Company describes in the reports it files and furnishes from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which can be obtained free of charge on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commissions website at www.sec.gov.
Perth, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PERSEUS MINING ANNOUNCES INTENTION TO MAKE TAKEOVER BID FOR ORECORP LIMITED

Perth, Western Australia/January 22, 2024/ Perseus Mining Limited (ASX/TSX: PRU) ( Perseus or the Company ) announces its intention to make an off-market takeover offer ( Offer ) for all of the issued shares in OreCorp Limited (ASX: ORR) ( OreCorp ) that it does not already own ( OreCorp Shares ) for cash consideration of A$0.55 per OreCorp Share .

Perseus Mining Limited (ASX/TSX: PRU) ( or the ) announces its intention to make an off-market takeover offer ( ) for all of the issued shares in OreCorp Limited (ASX: ORR) ( ) that it does not already own ( ) for . Full details of the Perseus Offer will be contained within a bidders statement that is expected to be lodged with ASIC, provided to OreCorp and released to the ASX prior to the end of January 2024.

This Offer to OreCorps shareholders is valued at a 4.0% premium1 to the currently implied value of a takeover offer made by Silvercorp Metals Inc ( Silvercorp ) ( Silvercorp Takeover ), as announced to the ASX on 27 December 2023 and as amended on 16 January 2024.

) ( ), as announced to the ASX on 27 December 2023 and as amended on 16 January 2024. The conditions of the Offer are materially the same as those of the Silvercorp Takeover, including being conditional on acquiring 50.1% of OreCorp ordinary shares.

Perseuss Offer, unlike the Silvercorp Takeover, provides OreCorp shareholders the certainty of receiving a cash payment equal to 100% of the stated value of the consideration for their shares.

OreCorps shareholders who wish to accept Perseuss Offer, once made, should NOT accept the Silvercorp Takeover as Shareholders who accept the Silvercorp Takeover will be unable to accept Perseuss Offer. OreCorp shareholders do not need to take any action at this time but should be guided by Perseuss bidders statement which will be provided to OreCorp shareholders before the end of January 2024.

Perseuss Executive Chairman and CEO Jeff Quartermaine said:

Perseus has put this new Offer directly to OreCorp shareholders on the basis that it represents a compelling opportunity for the shareholders of both OreCorp and Perseus.

The acquisition of OreCorps shares aligns with Perseuss growth strategy of building an asset portfolio comprised of geopolitically diverse, high-quality gold assets located on the African continent. At the same time, this Offer is demonstrably superior to the Silvercorp Takeover in terms of price, based on recent Silvercorp trading, and in terms of consideration certainty, being an all cash. In other words, it would ensure that OreCorps shareholders receive full value and certainty for their shares in OreCorp.

Perseus has the financial capacity, technical expertise, and in-country relationships required to optimally develop OreCorps Nyanzaga Gold Project and bring the gold mine into production. This development would enable Perseus to continue to deliver on its Corporate Mission of creating material benefits for all of our stakeholders, including the Government and people of Tanzania.

If the acquisition is completed, Perseus will have three operating mines producing gold at a rate of over 535,000 ounces per year in FY2023 and two high-quality development projects that, when brought on stream, as intended, will enable Perseus to maintain or exceed that targeted production level well into the next decade.

PERSEUS OFFER

Perseus intends to acquire the OreCorp Shares by way of an off-market takeover offer, with OreCorp shareholders receiving cash consideration of A$0.55 per OreCorp Share. The Offer implies a total OreCorp equity value of approximately A$258m2.

The Offer will be funded from Perseuss existing cash and bullion reserves which amounted to US$594m as at 30 September 2023.

This Offer is also subject to a 50.1% minimum acceptance condition and other customary conditions that are no less favourable than the Silvercorp Takeover. Perseus reserves the right to waive some or all of these conditions  details are provided in Schedule 1.

Perseus intends to submit its requisite approval forms to relevant Tanzanian government agencies for this transaction early this week. Perseus has recently met with the Tanzanian Government, and based on these discussions does not foresee any challenges in obtaining the requisite approvals in a timely manner.

Further details on the Perseus Offer will be contained within a bidders statement which is expected to be lodged with ASIC, provided to OreCorp and released to ASX prior to the end of January 2024.

RELATIVE VALUE AND CONSIDERATION CERTAINTY

The table below compares the value of Perseuss all cash Offer with the Silvercorp Takeover which includes a significant proportion of Silvercorp scrip:

Premium of Perseuss Offer to the Silvercorp Takeover3

Reference period up to 19 Jan 2024 Silvercorp Price (AUD) Implied Value of Silvercorp Scrip and Cash Takeover (AUD) Perseus Previous All Cash Offer Price (AUD) Perseus Premium of All Cash Offer 19 Jan 2024 close 3.50 0.529 0.55 4.0 % 2-day VWAP 3.49 0.527 0.55 4.3 % 3-day VWAP 3.49 0.528 0.55 4.2 % 5-day VWAP 3.57 0.535 0.55 2.8 % 10-day VWAP 3.62 0.540 0.55 1.9 %

The Silvercorp share price, and therefore the Silvercorp Takeover consideration, has demonstrated significant volatility since the original offer was made. As such, there is no certainty as to the value of the Silvercorp Takeover consideration at the time OreCorp shareholders would receive their shares.

Furthermore, if Silvercorp is the successful bidder for OreCorp, there is a material risk of Silvercorp share price downside relative to the current Silvercorp share price, if a large number of OreCorp shareholders wish to sell the Silvercorp shares received, to obtain cash consideration. Shareholders who are not residents of Canada or the USA where Silvercorp currently trades will also be exposed to foreign exchange risk.

To this point, Perseus notes that it was able to secure 19.9% of OreCorps shares at a price of $0.525 in November 2023, with a key driver for many of the sellers of OreCorp shares being a preference for cash consideration as opposed to Silvercorp shares if Silvercorp was successful.

Receiving Silvercorp shares introduces risk exposure for OreCorp shareholders, including to:

Foreign listing and exchange risk/complexity (no existing ASX listing and noting that the NYSE listing is not the main NYSE board but rather the smaller NYSE American exchange);

Commodity risk outside of gold, including base metals being lead and zinc; and

Jurisdictional risks outside of Africa. In particular, the risk stated in the Replacement Bidders Statement dated 16 January 2024 is relevant and material, including that the Chinese government currently allows foreign investment in certain mining projects under central government guidelines. There can be no assurance that these guidelines will not change in the future.

These risks are exacerbated if Silvercorp is successful in acquiring OreCorp given:

Silvercorp does not currently have sufficient funding to finance the development of the Nyanzaga Gold Project. This introduces funding execution and cost risk, including potential dilution with equity raisings and/or high-cost debt/royalties. The Government of Tanzania highlighted to Perseus the complexity that external project debt funding would have with respect to their interest in the project, particularly if debt funding requires security. Silvercorp has also stated that US$22.7 million of capital gains tax may be payable under Tanzanian legislation upon completion of an acquisition of OreCorp4;

Notwithstanding Silvercorps assertions regarding the potential quantum of change of control tax payable on completion of the Silvercorp Takeover, there remains considerable uncertainty as to the tax outcome and thus Silvercorps ability to fund this tax liability along with the cost of development of the Nyanzaga Gold Project;

Silvercorp has no experience in developing or operating gold projects in Africa;5 and

Silvercorp has outlined the possibility of shrinking OreCorps Nyanzaga Gold Project, at least in the first few years6. Based on Perseuss significant experience of developing and operating gold mines in Africa, Perseus believes that this could have a negative impact on the investment returns of the Nyanzaga Gold Project which are especially important to its stakeholders including the Government and people of Tanzania.

Perseus believes that the above concerns regarding the risks associated with Silvercorp shares, and particularly the material potential selling by OreCorp shareholders of the Silvercorp shares received that may occur if the Silvercorp Takeover is successful, are reflected in the inverse relationship between Silvercorp share price and the perceived probability of the Silvercorp Takeover proceeding. This may also reflect a general lack of support from Silvercorp shareholders for the Silvercorp Takeover.

The Silvercorp share price, and therefore value of Silvercorp Takeover consideration; (i) fell materially post announcement of the previous scheme of arrangement with OreCorp; then (ii) increased post the announcement of Perseuss 19.9% ownership interest in OreCorp and lack of support for the scheme; and (iii) fell upon Silvercorp announcing the Silvercorp Takeover.

Silvercorp Share Price Over Time7

Given the above trend, any appreciation in Silvercorp shares post the announcement of this Offer should be scrutinised by OreCorp shareholders to ascertain whether it demonstrates an increase in value, or whether it is attributable to a reduced probability of success for the Silvercorp Takeover that would unwind if the Silvercorp Takeover is ultimately successful.

INDICATIVE TIMETABLE

Perseus is well advanced on its bidders statement and if OreCorp consents to opening the offer after service of Perseuss bidder statement, Perseuss Offer could be open within the next two weeks.

OreCorp shareholders who wish to accept Perseuss Offer once made should NOT accept the Silvercorp Takeover. Shareholders who accept the Silvercorp Takeover will be unable to accept Perseuss Offer. Accordingly, OreCorp shareholders do not need to take any action at this time.

OVERVIEW OF ORECORP

OreCorp is an emerging mineral development company listed on the ASX under the code ORR. OreCorps key project is the Nyanzaga Gold Project in northwest Tanzania.

The Special Mining License (SML) for the Project was granted on 13 December 2021 and Framework and Shareholders Agreements were subsequently signed with the Government of Tanzania (GoT). The SML was granted to the new joint venture company, Sotta Mining Corporation Limited (SMCL), for an initial term of fifteen years. OreCorp holds an 84% interest in SMCL through its wholly owned subsidiary, Nyanzaga Mining Company Limited (NMCL). The Treasury Registrar of the GoT holds the 16% free carried interest in SMCL in accordance with the Mining Act [CAP. 123 R.E. 2019]. FOllowing the grant of the SML, OreCorp announced the results of its definitive feasibility study in August 2022.

OVERVIEW OF PERSEUS

Perseus (ASX/TSX: PRU) is an ASX and TSX listed mining company, with a market capitalisation of approximately A$2.45 billion.

Perseus currently operates three gold mines in West Africa, including Yaoure and Sissingue in Cote dIvoire and Edikan in Ghana and has been preparing for the development of a fourth mine (Meyas Sand Gold Project) in Sudan. In FY2023, Perseus produced more than 535,000oz of gold at a weighted average AISC of approximately US$960 per ounce.

Perseus has embarked on an organic growth programme focussed on known deposits and targets located near its existing mining operations and existing infrastructure. Perseus expects this programme will materially increase Perseuss Mineral Reserves and Resources inventory and enable Perseus to maintain existing production rates until towards the end of the decade. In addition, Perseus continues to assess and, where considered commercially appropriate, acquire other shareholder wealth-creating opportunities to complement its organic growth.

Perseus has a demonstrated track record of responsibly and sustainably managing its business generally in line with international standards and principles as clearly documented in its 2023 Sustainability Report. Its social licence to operate in Ghana, Cote dIvoire and Sudan is evidenced by the close cooperation between Perseus and its host governments and communities.

Perseuss Board and management team are experienced in gold exploration, project development and operating gold mines in Africa, and as Perseuss track record demonstrates, it has the available internal resources and capabilities together with external relationships to efficiently finance and manage new development projects.

ADVISERS

Perseus is being advised by Sternship Advisers and Euroz Hartleys Limited as financial advisers and by Corrs Westgarth Chambers as Australian legal counsel.

This market announcement was authorised for release by the Board of Perseus Mining Limited.

IMPORTANT NOTICES

COMPETENT PERSON STATEMENT

All production targets referred to in this release are underpinned by estimated Ore Reserves which have been prepared by competent persons in accordance with the requirements of the JORC Code.

Edikan

The information in this release that relates to the Open Pit and Underground Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve at Edikan was updated by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2023. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Edikan Gold Mine, Ghana dated 7 April 2022 continue to apply.

Sissingue, Fimbiasso and Bagoe

The information in this release that relates to the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve at the Sissingue complex was updated by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2023. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Sissingue Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 29 May 2015 continue to apply.

Yaoure

The information in this release that relates to the Open Pit and Underground Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve at Yaoure was updated by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining announces Open Pit and Underground Ore Reserve update at Yaoure released on 23 August 2023. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Yaoure Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 19 December 2023 continue to apply.

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION:

This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Yaoure Gold Mine, the Edikan Gold Mine and the Sissingue Gold Mine without any major disruption, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Companys ability to carry on its exploration and development activities, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

PERSEUS MINING LIMITEDASX/TSX CODE: PRUREGISTERED OFFICE:Level 2437 Roberts RoadSubiaco WA 6008Telephone: +61 8 6144 1700Email: [email protected] www.perseusmining.com CONTACTS:Jeff QuartermaineExecutive Chairman & CEO [email protected] Nathan RyanCorporate Relations+61 420 582 887 [email protected]

SCHEDULE 1

OFFER CONDITIONS8

1 Minimum acceptance: Before the end of the Offer Period, Perseus has a Relevant Interest in such number of OreCorp Shares as represents at least 50.1% of all OreCorp Shares (on a fully diluted basis);

2 No regulatory action: between date of this statement and the end of the Offer Period:

(a) there is not in effect any preliminary or final decision, order or ruling issued by any Government Agency;

(b) no application is made to any Government Agency; and

(c) no action or investigation is announced, commenced or threatened by any Government Agency in connection with the Perseuss Offer,

which could reasonably be expected to restrain, impede or prohibit or otherwise have a material adverse effect on the making of the Offer and the completion of the Perseuss Offer or any other transaction contemplated by this statement, other than an application to or a determination by ASIC or the Takeovers Panel in the exercise of the powers and discretions conferred by the Corporations Act.9

3 No material adverse change: between date of this statement and the end of the Offer Period, no Material Adverse Change occurs.10

4 No prescribed occurrences: between date of this statement and the end of the Offer Period, there is no prescribed occurrence.11

5 No other prescribed events: between date of this statement and the end of the Offer Period, none of the following events occurs:

(a) any member of the OreCorp Group resolves to reclassify, combine, split or redeem or repurchase directly or indirectly any of its shares;

(b) any member of the OreCorp Group issues shares or securities convertible into shares or grants, vests or accelerates a performance right or an option or any other securities convertible into shares or similar right over its shares or agrees to make such an issue or grant, vesting or acceleration in relation to such an option, performance right, share, security or similar right (other than an issue of shares in OreCorp pursuant to the conversion of convertible securities or the exercise of options where the existence of those convertible securities or options has been disclosed to ASX before the date of this statement;

(c) any member of the OreCorp Group (other than a wholly-owned subsidiary of OreCorp) announces, declares or determines to pay any dividend or announces or makes any other distribution to its members;

(d) any member of the OreCorp Group makes any change to its constitution or equivalent documents;

(e) any member of the OreCorp Group incurs any financial indebtedness or issues any debt securities (including convertible notes or hybrid securities), other than in the ordinary course of business or pursuant to advances under its credit facilities in existence as at the date of this statement where the funds drawn pursuant to those advances are used in the ordinary course of business;

(f) any member of the OreCorp Group makes any loans, advances or capital contributions to, or investments in, any other person (other than to or in OreCorp or to another direct or indirect wholly owned Related Entity of OreCorp in the ordinary course of business or to Perseus), other than in the ordinary course of business;

(g) any member of the OreCorp Group entering, varying or terminating any material contract, joint venture, partnership or other commitment which is material in the context of the business of the OreCorp Group as a whole, other than in the ordinary course of business;

(h) any member of the OreCorp Group entering into or resolving to enter into a transaction with a related entity of OreCorp (as defined in the Corporations Act, but excluding transactions between members of the OreCorp Group);

(i) any member of the OreCorp Group settling or compromising a material dispute;

(j) OreCorp ceases to be admitted to the official list of ASX or OreCorp Shares cease to be quoted by ASX; or

(k) any member of the OreCorp Group authorising, committing, announcing or agreeing to take any of the actions referred to preceding subparagraphs under this paragraph 5.

1 Based on NYSE American trading data for Silvercorp shares, and assuming a current AUD:USD exchange rate of 0.6597 as at close of trading on 19 January 2024.2 Based on 469,408,892 OreCorp ordinary shares outstanding at the Offer price of $0.55 per share.3 Based on NYSE American trading data for Silvercorp shares, and assuming a current AUD:USD exchange rate of 0.6597 as at close of trading on 19 January 2024.4 Silvercorp Replacement Bidders Statement dated 16 January 2024 pg 109.5 Silvercorp Replacement Bidders Statement dated 16 January 2024 pg 128.6 See slide 16 of the Silvercorp Corporate Presentation December 2023 available at https://silvercorpmetals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/20231204_SVM_Presentation.pdf.7 Based on NYSE American trading data for Silvercorp shares converted to AUD.

8 Terms not otherwise defined have the meanings ascribed to them in the Corporations Act9 In connection with this condition Perseus like Silvercorp appreciates that the need for FCC approval means that this condition could be breached (Appendix 2 paragraph (c) of the Silvercorp Bidders Statement as the absence of an approval could reasonably be expected to restrain, impede or prohibit or otherwise have a material adverse effect on the making or completion of the Perseus Offer. Perseus intends (like Silvercorp) to submit an initial application for the approval to the FCC, requesting the FCC to review the information provided in relation to the Perseus Offer. Perseus will engage with the FCC in order to seek a confirmation from the FCC of its approval to the Perseus Offer (Offer Approval). Perseus undertakes:

not to exercise any rights it has in relation to the FCC possible intervention under the Perseus Offer unless and until the FCC has made a decision that would restrain, impede or prohibit or otherwise have a material adverse effect on the making or completion of the Perseus Offer; and to keep the Offer open until at least 15 March 2024 (to allow the FCC to decide in relation to the Offer Approval, although Perseus reserves the right not to extend the Offer Period if FCC has not made such determination by the end of the Offer Period).

10 This condition will be on terms materially similar to the Silvercorp Offer  Appendix 2 paragraph (d) of the Silvercorp Bidders Statement.11 This condition will be on terms materially similar to the Silvercorp Offer  Appendix 2 paragraph (e) of the Silvercorp Bidders Statement.

Source: Perseus Mining Limited
ROUYN-NORANDA, Quebec, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radisson Mining Resources Inc. (TSX-V: RDS, OTCQB: RMRDF) (Radisson or the Company) is pleased to announce results from the first 3 drill holes (or 1,240 metres (m)) of an ongoing drill program at its 100% owned OBrien gold project located along the Larder-Lake-Cadillac Break (see location map 1 and location map 2), halfway between Rouyn-Noranda and Val-dOr in Quebec, Canada.

Key Highlights:

OB-23-284 intersected 81.83 grams per tonne (g/t) gold (Au) over 3.00 m

OB-23-283 intersected 6.16 g/t Au over 3.00 m and 5.17 g/t Au over 4.40 m

Successful start confirms Inferred resource growth potential in the upper 500 m

Program well underway with 12 drill holes completed, for 5,820 m drilled, to date

4,570 m of assays pending from 9 drill holes on Trend 3 and 4



We are pleased to report that initial results from our ongoing 10,000 m drill program have successfully intersected high-grade mineralization demonstrating strong resource growth potential in the upper 500 m of the OBrien deposit, commented Chairman of the Board of directors and Interim President & CEO, Denis Lachance. Drilling at OBrien continues to deliver high grades, consistent with drill results obtained over the last several years and those included within the current mineral resource estimate, which exceed 10 g/t gold on an Indicated resource basis. Were also pleased to see world-class gold grade as in hole OB-23-284. This is the type of high-grade mineralization that made the historic OBrien mine so profitable and has the potential to deliver very strong margins in a future mining operation. We expect significant news flow as more results become available and we look forward to sharing additional details of the drill program expansion in the coming weeks.

Drill Hole



Zone From (m) To

(m) Core Length (m) Au (g/t) -

Uncut Comments OB-23-284 Trend # 1 323.25 326.25 3.00 81.83 Mafic Volcanic* VG Including 324.25 325.25 1.00 241.00 And including 325.25 326.25 1.00 4.42 OB-23-283 Trend # 1 192.00 195.00 3.00 6.16 Mafic Volcanic and 246.00 250.40 4.40 5.17 Mafic Volcanic

VG denotes the presence of visible gold. True widths estimated at 70% to 80% of core length. Assay grades shown uncapped. A capping factor of 40 g/t Au was used in the 2023 resource estimate.



Targeting completed during Phase 1

Phase 1 of the drill program was designed with the objective of growing Inferred resources in areas with strongest veining and grade continuity within the first 500 m below surface, between Trends 0 and Trend 4.

As illustrated, in Figure 2 and 3, many zones can still be targeted in this superficial domain to reach a drill hole spacing of 25 m by 25 m. With the modeling of the veins and the compilation of historic gold values in the historic OBrien mine, the veins behaviour is well understood and, moreover, the gold distribution along each vein is also understood. The high-grade gold shoots commonly form high grade shoots with a lateral strike length of 15-20 m and a continuous vertical extent up to 400 m as illustrated on the longitudinal view of the vein V3-N_12 (See Figure 3). Intercepts published in holes OB-23-283 and OB-23-284 support this concept in areas targeted for resource growth having reached a vertical extent exceeding 130 m. Areas like these, including the area where mineralization returned 81.83 g/t Au over 3.00 m are expected to contribute significantly to resources in a future MRE update.





Figure 1. Visible Gold in OB-23-284





Figure 2. Longitudinal section looking north  OBrien gold project





Figure 3. Cross section from Trend 1  OBrien gold project

QA/QC

All drill cores in this campaign are NQ in size. Assays were completed on sawn half-cores, with the second half kept for future reference. The samples were analyzed using standard fire assay procedures with Atomic Absorption (AA) finish at ALS Laboratory Ltd, in Val-dOr, Quebec. Samples yielding a grade higher than 5 g/t Au Au were analyzed a second time by fire assay with gravimetric finish at the same laboratory. Mineralized zones containing visible gold were analyzed with metallic sieve procedure. Standard reference materials, blank samples and duplicates were inserted prior to shipment for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program.

Qualified Person

Vivien Janvier, P.Geo, Ph.D., Director Geology for Radisson is the Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. The Company's Qualified Person has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release.

Radisson Mining Resources Inc.

Radisson is a gold exploration company focused on its 100% owned OBrien project, located in the Bousquet-Cadillac mining camp along the world-renowned Larder-Lake-Cadillac Break in Abitibi, Quebec. The Bousquet-Cadillac mining camp has produced over 25,000,000 ounces of gold over the last 100 years. The project hosts the former OBrien Mine, considered to have been Quebecs highest-grade gold producer during its production.

For more information on Radisson, visit our website at www.radissonmining.com or contact:

Denis V. Lachance

Chairman, Interim President and CEO

819-806-3340

[email protected]

Kristina Pillon

Manager, Investor Relations

604.908.1695

[email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release including, but not limited to, those relating to the intended use of proceeds of the Offering, the development of the OBrien project and generally, the above About Radisson Mining Resources Inc. paragraph which essentially describes the Corporations outlook, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements and future events, could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. A description of assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information and a description of risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward looking information can be found in Radissons disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com .

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about managements endeavours to develop the OBrien project and, more generally, its expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important risk factors and future events could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators of Canada. The Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.
Monte Carlo, Monaco--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - In the shimmering heart of Monaco, a new cultural beacon has been lit. The Monegasque" magazine, a publication like no other, made its grand debut on December 19, 2023, at an exclusive, invitation-only launch held in the storied halls of the Prince's Car Collection.





The Monegasque



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This inaugural event, graced by the presence of an array of distinguished personalities and celebrities, marked the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey in the realm of high society publications. Among the glittering attendees, the air was abuzz with anticipation for a magazine poised to redefine the essence of elite journalism.

Luiz Costa Macambira, the former CEO and Publisher of Forbes Monaco, is the mastermind behind The Monegasque". His vision has culminated in a groundbreaking English-language magazine, promising a unique and sophisticated perspective on the crme de la creme of society. With an elite team of contributors and Costa Macambira's visionary leadership, the magazine is set to offer an insider's view into the luxurious and exclusive world of Monaco.

In a significant nod to the publication, H.S.H. Prince Albert II welcomed the inaugural issue with a letter, lauding its focus on Monaco's "cultural, social, and intellectual diversity." This high-profile endorsement underscores the magazine's ambition to be more than just a publication, but a cultural touchstone for the Principality.

The first issue of The Monegasque" dazzles with an unparalleled Who's Who of contributors, including esteemed members of various European royal families. This impressive roster is a testament to the magazine's commitment to delivering a depth of coverage that is as intriguing as it is exclusive.

Delving into contemporary Monaco, The Monegasque" promises to celebrate extraordinary individuals and exclusive locales while offering a rare glimpse into the lives of some of the world's most captivating figures. Among its pages, readers will find content from luminaries like Phillipe Pastor and Helga Piaget, further solidifying its status as the definitive source for an intimate look at Monaco's luxurious lifestyle.

Costa Macambira's brainchild, The Monegasque", not only sets a new standard for print magazines in Monaco but also redefines the concept itself. Scheduled to be published three times a year, its inaugural edition pays homage to the centenary of Prince Rainier's birth, including a poignant tribute to Princess Grace as seen through his collection of automobiles.

This first edition, rich with stories from legends and luminaries, exemplifies the magazine's unique approach. It's not merely about arts and culture; it's a platform where celebrities, royals, and influential personalities share their narratives, offering readers an unparalleled insight into their world.

The Monegasque" is more than a magazine; it's a cultural artifact, meticulously crafted in Monaco, for Monaco, yet with a global readership in mind. As it shines its spotlight on the Principality, it beckons the world to partake in the unique splendor and intrigue that is quintessentially Monaco.

Media Contact:

Deborah Blum

Blum Gallery

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195060
Company to focus on further diversification to address opportunities in emerging commodities and the energy transition

LONDON , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Argus Media Group ("Argus" or the "Company"), the leading independent provider of intelligence to the global energy and commodity markets, today announces that it has signed a strategic agreement to support its next phase of growth. Adrian Binks , chairman and chief executive of Argus, along with General Atlantic, a leading global growth investor and existing Argus minority shareholder, will each consolidate their stakes in Argus, with General Atlantic and Argus itself acquiring shares from current minority shareholder, Hg.

Following the transaction, Adrian Binks , who has built the Company since taking management control in 1984, will continue to lead Argus and as a result of the transaction, will become the majority owner of the Company, as envisaged when General Atlantic invested in 2016. General Atlantic will own a large minority of the Company, with Argus management also remaining as shareholders. Hg will fully exit its shareholding in the Company.

Founded in 1970 and headquartered in London , Argus serves over 11,000 customers in more than 160 countries, providing price assessments, news, analytics, consulting services, data science tools, and industry conferences to the global energy and commodities markets. Argus assessments are used as benchmarks around the world for pricing energy, transportation, and other commodities. Customers rely on Argus' prices for their most critical business operations including trading, contract negotiation, risk management and hedging, valuations, and financial reporting. The Company has delivered uninterrupted annual revenue growth for each of the last 40 years.

Adrian Binks , Chairman and Chief Executive of Argus Media, commented: "We are delighted that General Atlantic remains a committed partner to Argus in the next phase of our growth. Argus serves its customers around the world by navigating the challenges presented by the move to a sustainable future, which involves both traditional hydrocarbon and energy transition commodities. Our mission to bring transparency to these markets remains unchanged. I am pleased that Argus continues to be an independent business with many employees invested in the Company. I would like to express my thanks to the Hg team for their support and partnership which has been instrumental in helping Argus continue to grow."

General Atlantic is a long-term partner to Argus, having initially bought its shares in 2016. Hg, a leading investor in European and transatlantic software and services businesses, invested in the Company in January 2020 , acquiring half of General Atlantic's stake. Given the continued strong performance of the Company, General Atlantic transitioned the remainder of its stake into a continuation fund in 2021 and is investing additional capital from this fund to increase its ownership.

Since General Atlantic's investment in 2016, Argus has more than doubled in size and has accelerated its organic growth. FY2023 revenue grew 17% year on year, with particularly strong momentum in energy transition products, which grew 46%.

Gabriel Caillaux , Co-President, Managing Director, and Head of Climate and EMEA at General Atlantic, commented: "Argus has delivered highly consistent organic growth since our initial investment, while deepening its role as a critical provider of proprietary pricing data to the global energy and commodities markets. Over our seven-year partnership with the Company, Adrian and his team have demonstrated the quality of the business and their ability to deliver uninterrupted growth through any market backdrop. Looking ahead, Argus continues to capture growth opportunities created by market changes and the energy transition. We are excited to continue to work with a great team."

Nic Humphries , Senior Partner at Hg, said: "It's been a pleasure to work with Adrian and the broader Argus management team as they continue to build an exceptional global business serving the strategically important energy and commodities sectors, with a true long-term vision to support their ongoing evolution. We leave on a high, both delighted to return more capital back to our clients, whilst also being proud to have partnered and supported the business for the last four years. We wish the team and General Atlantic all the best for a successful future."

Following the transaction, Gabriel Caillaux and Tom Hussey will continue to represent General Atlantic on the Argus board.

The transaction is expected to close in the next month and is subject to appropriate antitrust/merger controls filings. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Argus Media and its shareholders were advised by J.P. Morgan as lead financial advisor. Morgan Stanley and Evercore acted as financial advisors to General Atlantic and Hg respectively. Macfarlanes LLP, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom ( UK ) LLP, and White & Case LLP acted as legal counsel to Argus Media, General Atlantic, Hg, and Adrian Binks .

About Argus Media

Founded in 1970, Argus is the leading independent provider of market intelligence to the global energy and commodity markets. We offer essential price assessments, news, analytics, consulting services, data science tools and industry conferences to illuminate complex and opaque commodity markets.

Headquartered in London with more than 1,300 staff, Argus is an independent media organisation with 29 offices in the world's principal commodity trading hubs. Companies, trading firms and governments in 160 countries around the world trust Argus data to make decisions, analyse situations, manage risk, facilitate trading and long-term planning. Argus prices are used as trusted benchmarks around the world for pricing transportation, commodities and energy.

About General Atlantic

General Atlantic is a leading global growth investor with more than four decades of experience providing capital and strategic support for over 500 growth companies throughout its history. Established in 1980 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs and deliver lasting impact, the firm combines a collaborative global approach, sector specific expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to partner with great entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses around the world. General Atlantic has approximately $83 billion in assets under management inclusive of all products as of 31 December, 2023 , and more than 280 investment professionals based in New York , Amsterdam , Beijing , Hong Kong , Jakarta , London , Mexico City , Miami , Mumbai , Munich , San Francisco , Sao Paulo, Shanghai , Singapore , Stamford and Tel Aviv . For more information on General Atlantic, please visit: www.generalatlantic.com.

About Hg

Hg supports the building of sector-leading enterprises that supply businesses with critical software applications or workflow services, delivering a more automated workplace for their customers. This industry is characterised by digitization trends that are in early stages of adoption and are set to transform the workplace for professionals over decades to come. Hg's support combines deep end-market knowledge with world class operational resources, together providing compelling support to entrepreneurial leaders looking to scale their business  businesses that are well invested, enduring and serve their customers well. With a vast European network and strong presence across North America , Hg's 400 employees and $65bn in funds under management support a portfolio of more than 50 businesses, worth over $135 billion aggregate enterprise value, with over 100,000 employees, consistently growing revenues at more than 20% annually. Additional information is available at www.hgcapital.com.

Media Contacts

Argus Media

Alex Brog & Seana Lanigan

[email protected]

+44 20 7780 4200

General Atlantic

Emily Japlon & Sara Widmann

[email protected]

Jess Gill & Anston Fernandes

[email protected]; [email protected]

Hg

Tom Eckersley

[email protected]

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SOURCE Argus Media
Stock Market Symbols

GIB (NYSE)

GIB.A (TSX)

www.cgi.com/newsroom

MONTREAL , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A), one of the largest business and IT consulting companies in the world, today announced a partnership with Korber aimed at enabling pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to improve their production processes by combining CGI's end-to-end services with Korber's Werum PAS-X Manufacturing Execution System (MES) Suite. The global partnership is designed to help clients increase efficiency, accuracy, and safety in pharma products and enhance decision-making through access to real-time data.

"CGI works side-by-side with clients to transform data into actionable insights to drive smart, sustainable and resilient operations," said Tim Hurlebaus President , U.S. Commercial & State Government operations and global executive sponsor for CGI's health and life sciences business. "This includes combining the benefits of MES and Industry 5.0 to gather rich insights to enable operational excellence. Our partnership with Korber complements our offerings portfolio, enabling us to deliver innovative new services and solutions to support the needs of our pharma and life sciences clients."

Korber's platform serves as a digital, real-time process controller to shorten time-to-market, lower production costs and enable a more patient-centric approach, improving outcomes and leading to improved health. Compliant with Good Manufacturing Practices, PAS-X MES presents a comprehensive view of data from diverse integrated systems, enabling faster and more informed decisions, which can be a critical advantage in an industry where timing and accuracy are paramount.

"Our PAS-X Products and Service Suites facilitate seamless digital transformation projects at our customers globally. By combining forces with CGI's global presence, expertise and complementary service portfolio in pharma and life sciences, we can offer a unique and compelling value proposition. CGI is one of the key partners to continue to expand our offering to our global customers" says Jan-Henrik Dieckert , COO Software, Korber Business Area Pharma.

Embedding robust IT and operational technology (OT) security, CGI's business consulting and MES services expertise enables faster, more seamless, and operationally integrated implementation of the platform, including transformation through technical integration, data migration, and organizational change management and adoption.

"In our global client insights research, pharma and life sciences executives said optimizing operations is their top business priority. CGI serves as a trusted advisor to help them achieve this priority through ROI-led digitization investments," said Maiken Lykke , Senior Vice-President, CGI Denmark. "We work collaboratively with clients to build solutions that tailor the right mix of services and technologies for their needs. We are pleased to partner with Korber to address the unique client challenges in this industry."

CGI delivers clinical and IT solutions for 11 of the top 20 global biotech and pharmaceutical companies, including helping these organizations optimize their processes; launch new therapies for cancer and rare diseases; and drive digital transformation across their research & development, manufacturing and commercial functions globally.

About CGI

Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 91,500 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2023 reported revenue is C$14.30 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

About Korber

We are Korber  an international technology group with more than 12,000 employees at over 100 locations worldwide and a common goal: We turn entrepreneurial thinking into customer success and shape the technological change. In the Business Areas Digital, Pharma, Supply Chain, and Technologies, we offer products, solutions and services that inspire. We act fast to customer needs, we execute ideas seamlessly, and with our innovations we create added value for our customers. In doing so, we are increasingly building on ecosystems that solve the challenges of today and tomorrow. Korber AG is the holding company of the Korber Group.

At the Korber Business Area Pharma we are delivering the difference along the pharma value chain with our unique portfolio of integrated solutions. With our software solutions we help drug manufacturers to digitize their pharmaceutical, biotech and cell & gene therapy production. The Werum PAS-X MES Suite is recognized as the world's leading Manufacturing Execution System for pharma, biotech and cell & gene. Our Werum PAS-X Savvy Suite accelerates product commercialization with data analytics and AI solutions and uncovers hidden business value. Learn more at www.koerber-pharma.com.

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SOURCE CGI Inc.
FoodTech start-up collaborates with SAIDO restaurant to craft prized Japanese dishes based on cultivated eel

REHOVOT, Israel , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cell-cultured seafood start-up Forsea Foods, Ltd. sails on its mission to save wild eel populations from near extinction by unveiling its first prototype of cell-cultivated freshwater eel. Forsea successfully replicated the traditional Japanese unagi eel ( Anguilla japonica) featuring the same tender, succulent texture and rich savory flavor as real eel.

The visionary start-up has been working together with the celebrated executive chef Katsumi Kusumoto to create two popular traditional Japanese dishes  unagi kabayaki (marinated grilled eel over rice) and unagi nigiri. Kusumoto runs the vegan restaurant SAIDO in Tokyo , which was voted the world's best vegan restaurant in 2019 by the online vegan and vegetarian restaurant guide Happy Cow.

The company has achieved a working proof-of-concept that embodies the sensory attributes of real eel meat and is now prepped for scale-up. In the collaboration, Forsea contributes its novel technology for cell-cultivating eel cuts, while Kusumoto contributes his culinary mastery to refine the product to perfection in texture and flavor. Forsea was the winner of the Startup Pitch Hour Prize at the Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit last October in Singapore .

"Unagi is an enduring favorite in Japan ," informs Kusumoto. "Its timeless appeal, however, is impacted by a growing awareness among the Japanese population of the need to take a more sustainable approach. It's been a thrilling journey to join forces with emerging innovators, and working together to deliver the traditional unagi indulgence with a clear eco-conscience."

Forsea was founded in 2021 with a mission to turn the tide on the downward spiral of the ocean's seafood populations by developing a cell-cultivated alternatives. Overfishing of eels has turned this aquatic delicacy into an endangered species. The immense popularity of eel meat in Asia , Europe , and the US likewise poses significant challenges for suppliers who struggle to keep up with the surging demand. This leads to supply bottlenecks, illegal trade, and high prices.

"This milestone marks a major leap in our journey to deliver delicious cultured seafood products," claims Roee Nir , CEO and co-founder of Forsea. "Forsea is pioneering the fusion of traditional, high-quality Asian cuisine with groundbreaking technology to create the world's first cultured unagione that will provide the consumer with a genuine seafood experience without putting further strain on aquatic life."

Beyond its contribution to ocean conservation, Forsea's cell-cultivated eel offers a nutritious alternative that is free from any antibiotics, hormones or ocean pollutants.

Forsea readying scale-up to fulfill vision of abundant eel supply

Unique to its proprietary method for culturing seafood is its application of organoid technology which allows for the crafting of 3D microtissues composed of fat and muscle. These spontaneously differentiate into edible cells, mimicking the natural process of cell formation. The cell lines self-organize into tissue structures without the need for scaffold support, simplifying the production process, and enhancing scalability.

This approach should effectively overcome major industry challenges and will ease some of the supply bottlenecks for eel meat. The proprietary practice also allows for the efficient and cost-effective production of cultivated meat by significantly decreasing reliance on costly growth factors.

Forsea projects that its inaugural product will be ready for commercial launch in 2025 as it seeks strategic partners in Japan (the largest consumer of freshwater eel) and across Asia . EU and the US also are also on its radar as rapidly developing markets.

Mayu Sugisaki appointed to lead Asia venture

To accelerate progress, Forsea has expanded its team, forming new engineering and food applications departments. Nir has appointed Mayu Sugisaki as business development manager in Japan in order to cement its presence in the Asian food market.

About Forsea

Forsea was founded by biotech engineer Roee Nir , MBA; Moria Shimoni, PhD; Iftach Nachman , PhD; and Yaniv Elkouby , PhD with support from the Israeli Innovation Authority (IIA) and The Kitchen Hub . It has garnered seed backing from Target Global, PeakBridge VC, Zora Ventures, FoodHack, and M&H Ventures. Forsea's organoid approach to cultivating fish tissue involves creating an ideal environment for fish cells to spontaneously form their natural composition of native fat and muscle. They grow as a three-dimensional tissue structure, just as in nature.

Company Contact Forsea Foods Ltd. Roee Nir , CEO and Co-Founder Email: [email protected] Web: www.forseafoods.com Press Contact NutriPR Liat Simha Tel: +972-9-9742893 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.nutripr.com

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SOURCE Forsea Foods
STOCKHOLM , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- H2 Green Steel signs definitive debt financing agreements for 4.2 billion in project financing and increases the previously announced equity raised by 300 million. Total equity funding to date amounts to 2.1 billion. The company has also been awarded a 250 million grant from the EU Innovation Fund. H2 Green Steel has now secured funding of close to 6.5 billion for the world's first large-scale green steel plant in Northern Sweden .

H2 Green Steel is driving one of the largest climate impact initiatives globally. The company was founded in 2020 with the purpose to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries, starting by producing steel with up to 95% lower CO 2 emissions than steel made with coke-fired blast furnaces. The construction of the flagship green steel plant in Boden, with integrated green hydrogen and green iron production, is well under way. The supply contracts for the hydrogen-, iron- and steel equipment are in place. A large portion of the electricity needed has been secured in long-term power purchase agreements, and half of the initial yearly volumes of 2.5 million tonnes of near zero steel have been sold in binding five- to seven-year customer agreements.

Today H2 Green Steel announces a massive milestone on its journey to accelerate the decarbonization of the steel industry, which is still one of the world's dirtiest. The company has signed debt financing of 4.2 billion, added equity of close to 300 million and been awarded a 250 million grant from the Innovation Fund. Funding amounts to 6.5 billion in total.

H2 Green Steel has signed definitive financing documentation for 3.5 billion in senior debt and an up-to-600 million junior debt facility:

Consistent with project financings, international banks providing the senior debt will be lending in part under cover provided by Riksgalden (Swedish National Debt Office), as a green credit guarantee and Euler Hermes as an export credit cover for 1.2 billion each. The guarantees cover 80% and 95% of the loan amount respectively, and are provided in accordance with market pricing.

as an export credit cover for 1.2 billion each. The guarantees cover 80% and 95% of the loan amount respectively, and are provided in accordance with market pricing. The group of over 20 lenders includes Svensk Exportkredit (SEK) and the European Investment Bank together with commercial banks, led by BNP Paribas , ING , KfW IPEX-Bank , Societe Generale and UniCredit.

together with commercial banks, led by , , , Societe Generale and UniCredit. The junior debt consortium is led by AIP Management and comprises European and international investment banks and funds.

H2 Green Steel has also raised close to 300 million more from investors, bringing the equity in the project to a total of 2.1 billion. New shareholders include Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, Mubea and Siemens Financial Services. Additionally, IMAS Foundation and Just Climate are some of the existing shareholders which are increasing their investments in H2 Green Steel.

In September 2023 , H2 Green Steel announced it had raised 1.5 billion in equity, making it the largest private placement round in 2023 in Europe . Before that, the company closed its series A equity round of 86 million in May 2021 and announced the close of its series B1 round of 260 million in October 2022 .

H2 Green Steel has also signed a 250 million grant agreement under the Innovation Fund through the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). The Innovation Fund is financed by the European Union's Emissions Trading System and supports innovative projects that aim to speed up decarbonization of European industry and accelerate the green transition.

"No one has scrutinized our project more thoroughly than those who back our financing. This massive commitment from our lenders, investors and the Innovation Fund is true recognition of the quality of our company. It's also a big win for the climate as we hope the model will inspire the financing of other decarbonization initiatives in hard-to-abate industries," says Henrik Henriksson , CEO of H2 Green Steel.

"We have gone through this process working side-by-side with many different stakeholders. We have worked as one big team, broken new ground and found innovative solutions in structures and ways of working that are normally rigid. The result is a historical milestone for one of the biggest decarbonization ventures globally," Otto Gernandt , Chief Financial Officer, H2 Green Steel.

"H2 Green Steel is an excellent example of the kind of breakthrough projects that the EU Innovation Fund is supporting. The EU is proud to support these solutions to decarbonize the European steel industry and keep it competitive in a challenging global environment. We congratulate the H2 Green Steel team on their dedication and hard work, and look forward to supporting similar initiatives all over Europe ," said Kurt Vandeberghe , Director General for Climate Action, European Commission.

Comments from lenders:

"It has been a both long and exciting journey working side-by-side with H2 Green Steel as well as national and international stakeholders. Together we have now accomplished a very important milestone in the future decarbonization of the hard-to-abate industries. Along the way, we have broken new ground, built some fantastic relationships and we look forward to continuing to do our bit to support the climate transition," says Magnus Montan , CEO SEK.

"We are extremely proud that we have been able to play a part in this landmark transaction. As German ECA we have a strong focus on supporting the German industry in the energy transition and this project shows that German companies such as SMS and TK Nucera can provide the leading-edge technology that is key to drive the transition to decarbonization of relevant industries like the steel sector. Huge congratulations to everybody at H2 Green Steel for their fantastic work in bringing this adventure to reality," said Ulrich Schulte Lunzum, Head of Project Finance, Euler Hermes.

"The steel industry is a strategic sector, being at the heart of the EU economy. Our commitment to reach net zero by 2050 requires this sector to undergo transformative changes. It is important that the EIB, as the EU climate bank, is supporting H2 Green Steel in its pioneering development for a breakthrough clean technology to produce low carbon primary flat steel products. The project paves the way for the development of environmentally friendly steel - crucial for the decarbonization efforts of the so-called "hard to abate sectors", of which steel is an important one," says Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, Thomas Ostros.

"Working closely with the exceptional H2 Green Steel team since the inception of the project in 2021, we are extremely proud to have supported the venture in this precedent setting financing. This transaction illustrates very well how industrial innovation can be financed to enable transition. A huge milestone for the European low carbon steel industry," said Christophe Hadjal, Managing Director, Regional Head for Europe Mining, Metals and Industries Finance, Societe Generale.

"Use of green hydrogen as the reducing agent for iron ore in the steel-making process is one of the highest merit order use cases for green hydrogen we have identified. It has been quite a journey over the past two-and-a-half years, and we look forward to continuing to work with the H2 Green Steel team on the Boden project and beyond," said Greg Falzon , Partner, Co-head of investments at AIP.

Legal and financial advisors to H2 Green Steel include Milbank, Mannheimer Swartling, Societe Generale and KfW IPEX-Bank.

Morgan Stanley acts as equity advisor to H2 Green Steel.

For further information:

Karin Hallstan, Head of Public and Media Relations, phone: +46 76 842 81 04, email: [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/20623/3913134/2553563.pdf H2 Green Steel debt and equity signing_final https://news.cision.com/h2-green-steel/i/h2gs-boden-plant-1,c3259391 H2GS Boden Plant 1

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SOURCE H2 Green Steel
165th Airlift Wing to receive a total of eight Super Hercules tactical airlifters

MARIETTA, Ga. , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) delivered the first of eight C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical airlifters to the Georgia Air National Guard during a ceremony today, commemorating a new era in Hercules operations for this longtime C-130 Hercules operator.

The 165th Airlift Wing  the first C-130 operator in the state of Georgia  received its initial Hercules in 1975 and has operated several variants over the years. The Savannah -based unit will now operate the C-130J-30 Super Hercules, which offers unprecedented power, space, integration and versatility.

"Today's delivery of this C-130J-30 Super Hercules is another symbol of Lockheed Martin's long-term commitment to the Hercules' home state. On behalf of our 6,000+ Georgia employees, it is an honor to deliver this Georgia -built, Georgia -flown aircraft to Savannah's 165th Airlift Wing," said Rod McLean , vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin's Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business and its Marietta production site. "The addition of the C-130J Super Hercules, the most advanced Hercules ever produced, to the Georgia Air National Guard's fleet enables its crews deliver hope and help  all over the world for many years to come."

The 165th Airlift Wing has the distinction of operating the first all-C-130J-30 Super Hercules fleet in Georgia . Its crews will rely on the C-130J-30  the stretch version of the C-130J that adds 15 feet of cargo space  to support strategic and tactical airlift mission requirements.

"Marty, the girls and I are grateful for the service and dedication of the men and women of the Georgia Air National Guard every day," Gov. Brian Kemp said. "Today's delivery of a C-130J-30 Super Hercules means our brave servicemembers will now fly the most advanced Hercules aircraft in history, proudly built right here in the State of Georgia at Lockheed Martin's historic Marietta manufacturing facility. I'm proud the longest continuously produced military aircraft in American history is now both Georgia -built and Georgia -flown, supporting our state's continued growth as a national leader in military, defense and aerospace."

The C-130J Super Hercules is Georgia's aerospace ambassador to the world, with almost 2.7 million flight hours and a $2 billion annual investment into the Georgia economy, which includes 18 Georgia-based suppliers.

"I join with Maj. Gen. Carden , Maj. Gen. Crumbly , the Lockheed Martin team, IAM Local 709 and the entire community in celebrating the delivery of this new C-130J for our Georgia Air National Guard. In 2022, Sen. Warnock and I added funding for 16 new C-130J aircraft and an additional 16 in 2023. I will continue to champion the C-130J program in Congress, and this new aircraft will help our National Guard defend the United States ," U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff said.

This delivery marks the first U.S. Air Force C-130J-30 aircraft to receive the Block 8.1 configuration during its initial production. The Block 8.1 configuration improves interoperability across the fleet with features such as a new flight management system, enhanced navigation and inter-communication systems and updated friend-or-foe identification.

"Since I came to Congress, I have fiercely advocated for increased C-130 procurement, due to its importance in strengthening our national security. The C-130J Super Hercules is the most capable airlifter in the world. Every aircraft made represents the hard work of 5,500 Georgians at Lockheed Martin's Marietta facility located right here in the 11th Congressional District ," U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) said. "This new aircraft also represents a major increase in capability for the men and women of Georgia's Air National Guard, who will now count the most advanced C-130 ever built as part of its newest fleet. I want to thank Georgia Adjutant General Thomas Carden for his partnership in securing this major victory for Georgia and our nation."

The U.S. Air National Guard, which has one of the most visible and active C-130 fleets in the world, continues to operate a mixed C-130J and C-130H fleet. The addition of the C-130J-30 Super Hercules to the Air National Guard fleet ensures these crews will continue to support the Guard's motto of "Always Ready, Always There" for decades to come.

"The future is now, and the Georgia National Guard is more prepared than ever to answer the call with the cutting-edge, C-130J Super Hercules-enabled airlift. I'm so proud of the Airmen at 165th Airlift Wing and thankful to all those our who have worked tirelessly to make this happen," said Maj. Gen. Tom Carden , adjutant general of the Georgia Department of Defense.

The C-130J Super Hercules is the proven standard in tactical airlift, providing a unique mix of versatility and performance to complete any mission, anytime, anywhere. To date, 26 operators in 22 nations are part of the C-130J global fleet. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 530 C-130J Super Hercules in 18 mission variants.

For more information, visit www.lockheedmartin.com/c130 .

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland , Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

Please follow www.lockheedmartin.com and @LMNews on X for the latest announcements and news across the corporation.

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
LONGi executive speaks at 2024 Davos Forum panel to share best practices in improving manufacturing sustainability

DAVOS, Switzerland , Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As one of the newest recipients of the World Economic Forum (WEF) "Lighthouse Factory" recognition, LONGi is on hand at the WEF forum in Davos to further promote the role of clean energy in global manufacturing.

LONGi is the world's largest manufacturer of solar photovoltaic and has been instrumental in making solar energy become more affordable and abundant around the world. As the company continues its impressive global expansion it is becoming a mainstay at important international events.

LONGi arrives in Davos after a productive stop in Dubai for the UN COP28 climate conference where it announced new partnerships with the UN Refugee Agency and wildlife conservation efforts, along with the release of its annual Climate Action White Paper highlighting company achievements to reduce its own operational emissions.

In December 2023 LONGi announced that it had been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a "Global Lighthouse Factory", one of only 153 factories around the world with such recognition and the world's first solar module factory listed. These Lighthouse factories are listed as such in recognition of their progress in advancing sustainability in manufacturing.

There is no viable path to reaching the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and further commitments from COP28 in Dubai without accelerating the decarbonization of manufacturing operations and supply chains, which account for nearly 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This is what the WEF seeks to address.

LONGi's production facility in Jiaxing, China was awarded this Lighthouse status due to its use of digital technologies including AI and automation to promote intelligent manufacturing that reduces production costs, delivery cycles, and energy consumption. Adoption of these technologies reduced energy consumption per unit by 20%. Behind this achievement is LONGi's persistent dedication to technological innovation and sustainable development.

"We will seize this opportunity to continue leading the low-carbon and digitized development of the photovoltaic manufacturing industry. We look forward to playing a more proactive role in the global energy transition, contributing greater efforts to promote the widespread adoption and sustainable development of clean energy", says LONGi Chairman Zhong Baoshen at the award ceremony of WEF's Global Lighthouse Network.

Chairman Zhong also spoke at the panel "Accelerating Net Zero: Innovative Strategies for Manufacturing", noting just how difficult it is to make these continued energy efficiency improvements. "Even solar cell efficiency improvements of just 0.1% require significant research and hard work," he noted, "making such advancements through technology is no simple feat. It takes consistent perseverance to see real achievements."

As highlighted in its 2023 Climate Action White Paper, LONGi has made monumental strides toward clean energy development, including slashing operational emissions per revenue unit by nearly 40 percent in 2022. Additionally, 47 percent of LONGi's total electricity consumption is now sourced from sustainable alternatives, eliminating approximately 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

These production advancements have allowed LONGi to produce solar modules at a global scale, helping the company also advance projects in less developed countries, part of its "Energy Equity" strategy. "Clean energy should be available to everyone," noted Chairman Zhong, "as the sun is a natural resource that every person on Earth has access to." LONGi is committed to contribute to the global clean energy transition, making the value of sunlight accessible to all and enabling everyone to enjoy clean and affordable solar energy.

At the panel, Chairman Zhong also explained how LONGi's efforts go beyond solar technology, as the company is also a pioneer in developing hydrogen energy. Hydrogen is one of the cleanest, most efficient forms of energy, but its production often requires large amounts of energy. LONGi is implementing what it calls "Green Hydrogen" by using solar and other clean energy sources to produce hydrogen. Although the global proportion of green hydrogen remains below 1 percent, Chairman Zhong explained that it will become an inevitable choice for deep decarbonization, especially in the transportation sector.

"LONGi still has more we can do to improve the greening of our operations and advancing the clean energy transition," Chairman Zhong noted. "We are eager to share our experiences with other companies working hard to improve their sustainability, and we know we have much to learn from them as well. That's why we're here at Davos ."

About LONGi

Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.

Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com

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SOURCE LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Major General Boobek Azhikeev, Kyrgyz Republic's Minister of Emergency Situations, reached out to the public following the recent earthquake, Trend reports.

He mentioned that a magnitude 7 quake hit China at 00:09 local time, causing strong tremors in Jeti-Oguz, Aksy, and Tyup districts of Issyk-Kul region.

In Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, it was felt at around 4-5 on the scale.

Azhikeev assured that, as of now, there are no casualties or significant damage, urging people not to panic.

Uzbekistan also experienced ground shakes reaching an intensity of up to 4 points. Kazakhstans Almaty recorded tremors measuring 6.7 in magnitude.
ATLANTA , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MJV Innovation , a leading global consultancy serving Fortune 500 companies in digital transformation, customer experience, and design thinking, will host a retail industry gathering in Atlanta to share the top insights it compiles from the annual National Retail Federation's Big Show. Named MJV Rethink Retail, the event will take place on January 30, 2024 at 8:30am at the Buckhead Club and convene retail executives from major companies.

During the event, MJV's team will deliver a presentation of the top insights garnered while attending NRF's annual flagship conference in New York earlier in the month. A panel presenting leaders' insights from the world's largest retail and CPG companies with topics such as AI and customer experience as well as top trends for 2024.

Register for the event for free at: https://events.mjvinnovation.com/rethink-retail-us/

About MJV Technology and Innovation

MJV Technology and Innovation is a leading global consulting and development firm specializing in digital transformation. The firm serves Fortune 500 clients including Coca-Cola, Delta, BNP, Cartier, and more in implementing data-driven innovation and strategies, including design thinking, ESG practices, consumer experiences, and data analytics. The firm was founded in 1997 and has locations across the US, Europe , and Latin America .

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SOURCE MJV Technology & Innovation
BEIRUT , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Puck, a global brand with purpose, belonging to Arla Foods multinational dairy company, announced today the launch of "Selfless Shelves," an initiative aiming to empower five entrepreneurial women from five distinct villages in Lebanon , by granting them shelf space in Carrefour stores to sell their handcrafted and locally sourced produce known as "mouneh," packed in repurposed Puck glass jars. These jars highlight each woman's heart-warming story and aim to support their families with earned income. The artisanal products these five women will be selling include culinary delights such as makdous eggplant, zaatar, dried orange bitter peels, sumac, and pumpkin jam and are now available on shelves at select Carrefour branches in Lebanon starting from January 22, 2024 .

Puck is launching the initiative in light of the economic crisis in Lebanon , which has left a staggering 63% of women unemployed  as stated in a report by UN Women. This is particularly prevalent in the remote regions of Lebanon where job opportunities have reached an all-time low. As a result, women across Lebanon's villages have resorted to selling "mouneh" to their communities as a means of earning a basic income. Puck noticed the initiative these women were taking towards supporting their families and decided to encourage them to continue pursuing homegrown forms of income by providing jars and shelf space for their products.

Yahia Adel Z AlSharif, Head of Category at Arla Foods, expressed enthusiasm for this campaign, stating: "Puck's proactive efforts towards community-wide sustainable consumer behaviour aim to generate positive change on a socioeconomic and environmental level. It is inspiring to see Puck take steps through ongoing campaigns to encourage mindful habits by reusing its glass jars whilst also supporting and empowering Lebanon's women-led local artisanal businesses."

And this is just the beginning. Puck understands the importance of female empowerment in society and has announced that the "Selfless Shelves" initiative is a pilot for more programs that the brand intends to roll out in the future, to continue taking conscious steps towards the improvement of women's wellbeing by providing them with healthier products, a variety of offerings and inspirational recipes.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2321415/Puck_Selfless_Shelves.jpg

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SOURCE Puck
GOTHENBURG, Sweden , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SKF has been awarded a Platinum Medal by EcoVadis, one of the most trusted providers of sustainability ratings for use in supply chains. This prestigious recognition places SKF in the top 1% among the more than 100,000 companies assessed worldwide for its commitment to sustainable business practices.

The EcoVadis assessment evaluates 21 sustainability criteria across four key themes: Environment, Labour and Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. The rating identified several particular strengths across SKF's business, including policies, reporting, best in class GHG (Greenhouse gas) management system and strong decarbonization ambition with approved science-based targets.

Magnus Rosen, Head of Sustainability at SKF, says, "We are proud to have been awarded the EcoVadis Platinum Medal for the fourth year running. This rating reflects not only the ambitious goals we have set for ourselves and the value chain but also how sustainability sits at the heart of SKF, embedded in our purpose, our strategy and in our strive to bring positive impact across the organization worldwide."

EcoVadis' business sustainability ratings are based on international sustainability standards, such as the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, the International Labor Organization (ILO) conventions, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and the ISO 26000 standard. The ratings provide an evidenced-based analysis on performance and an actionable roadmap for continuous improvement.

Aktiebolaget SKF

(publ)

CONTACT:

For further information, please contact:

PRESS: Carl Bjernstam, Head of Media Relations

tel: 46 31-337 2517; mobile: 46 722-201 893; e-mail: [email protected]

INVESTOR RELATIONS: Patrik Stenberg , Head of Investor Relations

tel: 46 31-337 2104; mobile: 46 705-472 104; [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/637/3912940/2552957.pdf 20240122 SKF Awarded EcoVadis Platinum Rating for fourth year running https://news.cision.com/skf/i/skf-remanufacturing,c3259309 SKF remanufacturing https://news.cision.com/skf/i/magnus-rosen,c3259310 Magnus Rosen

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SOURCE SKF
VANCOUVER, BC , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Harbour Centre, a cornerstone of western Canada's digital landscape, proudly announces the unveiling of Meet-Me- Room 5 (MMR5), the inaugural step towards a cutting-edge, digital-first complex that integrates both Harbour Centre and Spencer Building .

At a time when demand for robust and expanded connectivity capacity in Vancouver is rising, Harbour Centre's new MMR5 is set to meet the burgeoning interconnection needs of carriers, cloud providers, network operators and other service providers, both local and international. It will be the conduit between Harbour Centre's longstanding legacy as Vancouver's primary interconnection point and the new focal point for future growth of vital, digital infrastructure in the city Spencer Building. The expanded interconnection capacity and the strategic footprint opportunities created by MMR5 reinvigorate Vancouver's position as an attractive destination for those seeking a launchpad for success in the region's ever-expanding digital arena.

The new, central MMR5 seamlessly interconnects to Harbour Centre's existing four MMRs as well as directly connecting to Spencer Building Carrier Hotel . Moreover, MMR5 offers an additional colocation space with secure access to up to 28 cabinets and cabinet power density of 10kW+. Most importantly, Harbour Centre is making it simple and affordable for service providers to establish their footprint in MMR5. Until December 31, 2024 , all new cross connects in MMR5 are discounted to $75 a cross connect per month. Additionally, existing tenants can benefit from personalized transition plans that will enable them to install their equipment in MMR5's active and passive rooms at minimal cost.

"The unveiling of MMR5 is a pivotal moment as it represents our firm commitment to transforming Vancouver's digital landscape for a bright future," comments Scott Despot , Director of Business Development and Sales at Spencer Building Carrier Hotel . "We're not just introducing a new state-of-the-art connectivity hub. In many ways, we're laying the foundation for a dynamic, digital-first future for the entire region. On a personal level, this move also launches us into a new chapter with both our valued customers and those evaluating MMR5 as a launchpad for future growth in western Canada and beyond. Our high-touch, consultative approach, backed by white-glove customer service, will help ensure our customers' success. Their growth is our mission."

As the opening move of Vancouver's next wave of innovation, MMR5 positions Harbour Centre and Spencer Building at the forefront of the region's digital evolution, offering the telecommunications and service provider sectors unparalleled opportunities for growth and a gateway to a connected, thriving future.

To learn more about MMR5, download the brochure here. For further information on Spencer Building , visit spencerbuilding.com.

About Spencer Building and Harbour Centre:

Together, Harbour Centre and Spencer Building Carrier Hotel are meeting demand for expanded connectivity and data center capacity in western Canada . Strategically positioned as the nexus between Harbour Centre's established legacy and the cutting-edge potential of Spencer Building in the region's future digital growth, MMR5 serves as the inaugural step toward a dynamic, digital-first complex. With access to all major Canadian telecommunications providers, Tier 1 network operators, and peering exchanges, including a direct connection to VANIX, Harbor Center continues to be a strategic location for those seeking a strategic footprint on Canada's west coast.

Media Contact

Jaymie Scotto & Associates (JSA)

[email protected]

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Private capital's A-list are set to gather in Monte Carlo for this year's SuperInvestor conference

MONTE CARLO, Monaco , Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SuperReturn, the world's leading series of private capital events, will host its annual SuperInvestor conference in Monaco for the first time. The event, which will take place at the prestigious Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo between 5-8 November 2024 , is expected to attract over 2,500 attendees from 50+ countries, including 700+ LPs and 1,400+ GPs, for four days of networking.

With unique meeting areas and outdoor networking spaces, the Grimaldi Forum is the perfect setting for the private equity industry's premier event dedicated to GP and LP relations.

"We are excited to bring SuperInvestor to Monaco for the very first time," said Dorothy Kelso , Global Head of SuperReturn. "As an important and growing financial centre, Monaco is a thriving investment hub for foreign investors, making it the perfect destination for our premier LP-GP relations-focused event. This year's conference promises unrivalled networking for the private equity universe, with the kind of influential global community only SuperInvestor can attract."

To register to attend and for more information, including details of speakers, topics and networking opportunities as they're announced, please visit: https://informaconnect.com/superinvestor/.

About SuperInvestor

SuperInvestor is the largest global private equity conference focused on LP/GP relations and part of the SuperReturn series of leading private equity events which take place across the world.

The four-day conference will bring together more than 2,500 of the industry's leading professionals from across the world to network and discuss current trends and opportunities in the global private markets.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/worlds-largest-private-equity-series-comes-to-monaco-november-5-8-302039613.html

SOURCE SuperInvestor
Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa gestures at a ceremony to deliver equipment to the National Police, amid the ongoing wave of violence around the nation, in Quito, Ecuador, January 22, 2024. REUTERS/Karen Toro

QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuador's police on Monday said they have captured the leader of Colombian armed group Oliver Sinisterra and that Ecuadorean authorities will return him to Colombia.

News of the capture comes amid a military offensive launched by Ecuador's government to combat criminal gangs.

President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency with nighttime curfew for 60 days at the beginning of January amid spiraling violence in the Andean country and designated 22 criminal bands as terrorist groups.

Carlos L, known as El Gringo, was captured on Sunday night in Imbabura, in the north of Ecuador, following three months of preparations by security forces.

"An immigration hearing will be held so that he can be expelled from Ecuador and sent to Colombia," Ecuador police commander Cesar Zapata told reporters. "He has a pretty hefty criminal record."

Zapata has spoken with Colombian police to coordinate the handover, he said.

Carlos L was involved in criminal activities in Ecuador, police said, especially with terrorist groups in San Lorenzo near the border with Colombia.

Oliver Sinisterra is a faction of the Segunda Marquetalia group of dissident rebels of the now-demobilized Revolutionary Forces of Colombia (FARC) which abandoned a 2016 peace deal with the state.

The Oliver Sinisterra front operates in Colombia's Narino province and Ecuador's Esmeraldas province.

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia; Additional reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta; Writing by Oliver Griffin; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa speaks during an interview amid the ongoing wave of violence around the nation, in Guayaquil, Ecuador January 19, 2024. Carlos Silva/Ecuador Presidency/Handout via REUTERS

QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuador's president on Monday said he is seeking financial support from the U.S. and Europe, as well extending output from an oil block that was voted to be shut down, as he looks to free up funds to fight organized crime.

President Daniel Noboa, a 36-year old businessman who started his term in November, has launched a 60-day state of emergency, nighttime curfew and military offensive against criminal groups he has a designated as terrorists.

The escalating violence in the South American country, which saw gunmen storm a live TV broadcast early this month, comes as the economy is struggling to meet its domestic debt obligations, limiting its ability to borrow from overseas.

Top U.S. officials are visiting Ecuador this week to boost bilateral cooperation on security and fighting organized crime.

Noboa said in an interview with Teleamazonas TV channel that "refinancing the foreign debt" would be vital.

"It is important to have the help of the United States as well as Europe so that we are not financially strangled while we wage this war," Noboa said, without giving further details.

Economy Minister Juan Carlos Vega is set to meet U.S. government bodies, multilateral organizations and investors this week to seek ways to finance social projects and boost the economy, his ministry said in a statement.

Noboa also noted that an option would be to postpone the closure of Amazon oil block 43-ITT, which is scheduled to shut down in August after an environmental referendum.

The block, operated by state-owned Petroecuador, produces around 55,000 barrels per day (bpd).

Noboa also announced a $1 billion cut to government expenses and said he supports a tax on profits registered by private banks over the past two years.

"It is essential to maintain a certain income until this pivotal time is over," he said in the interview. "If we do not fight and fund ourselves we will lose the country."

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia; Writing by Sarah Morland, Editing by Louise Heavens)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders waits to speak during a rally in support of striking United Auto Workers members in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., September 15, 2023. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook/File Photo

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and a group of Democratic lawmakers are pushing to raise taxes for companies that pay their chief executives at least 50 times more than their typical worker's salary, saying the bill was needed to limit corporate greed.

The union-backed proposal, which could impact some of the nation's biggest companies and largest employers, would also require Treasury Department guidelines to prevent companies from avoiding the tax by using contractors rather than employees, the senators said in a statement on Monday.

The bill could generate $150 billion in U.S. revenue over 10 years, while companies could avoid the tax hike by raising workers' pay and reducing CEO salaries, they added.

Walmart, Alphabet's Google, Home Depot, JPMorgan Chase, Nike and McDonald's could all face millions more - in some cases billions more - in taxes, the group said.

"Americans across the political spectrum are outraged by the extreme gaps between CEO and worker pay," the group said. Sanders, an independent, generally caucuses with Democrats.

The bill would need 60 votes to clear the Senate, which Democrats narrowly control 51-49. It also likely faces an uphill battle in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, which would also have to pass the measure in order to send it to Democratic U.S. President Joe Biden to sign into law.

U.S. elections on the horizon in November could also further complicate any effort to pass such a bill with the economy looming large in Biden's bid for re-election.

Representatives for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the largest U.S. business lobby, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act, which was introduced last week.

The measure would raise the tax rate on companies whose CEO-to-worker salary ratio was above 50 to 1, starting with a 0.5 percentage-point increase when the top executive earns 50 to 100 times more than the company's average worker, according to the proposed legislation.

Companies that pay their top executives more than 500 times what a typical worker makes would face a maximum tax penalty of 5 percentage points.

If the CEO did not receive the largest paycheck in the firm, the ratio would be based on the highest-paid employee, the senators said. CEO-to-worker pay data for privately held companies would also be made public, they added.

(Reporting by Susan Heavey in Washington; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announces his withdrawl from the Republican presidential candidacy in a still image from video released on social media January 21, 2024. Ron DeSantis campaign/ via REUTERS

By Seana Davis

(Reuters) - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ended his presidential bid on Sunday when he announced on social media his withdrawal with a quote falsely attributed to Winston Churchill.

During a four-minute video address posted on X the Republican governor incorrectly attributed a quote to Churchill: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts."

The International Churchill Society previously wrote that the quote is commonly misattributed to the former British prime minister. The Churchill Project at Hillsdale College included the phrase as one of several fabricated Churchill quotes.

A spokesperson for DeSantis did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Spencer Jones, a senior lecturer in Armed Forces and War Studies at the University of Wolverhampton, said there is no evidence that Churchill ever used the phrase, adding that it is "frequently shared as an inspirational quote on social media."

Kevin Ruane, a professor at Canterbury Christ Church University who authored a book on Churchill, said, "Churchill was an incredible wordsmith, and forged so many memorable phrases over a long career, but he's also probably had as many invented quotes attached to him as he created himself."

"However you frame it, Governor DeSantis made his final bow with a blooper," he said.

(Reporting by Seana Davis; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
FILE PHOTO: Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard, flanked by Senator Ricardo Monreal (L) and lawmaker Ignacio Mier (R), both of the Morena ruling party, pose for a photo during a news conference to announce that Mexico sued several gun makers in a U.S.

By Nate Raymond

BOSTON (Reuters) -A U.S. appeals court on Monday revived a $10 billion lawsuit by Mexico seeking to hold American gun manufacturers responsible for facilitating the trafficking of weapons to drug cartels across the U.S.-Mexico border.

The Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a lower-court judge's decision dismissing the case on the grounds that a U.S. law barred Mexico from suing Smith & Wesson Brands, Sturm, Ruger & Co and others.

That law, the federal Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), provides the firearms industry broad protection from lawsuits over their products' misuse.

Mexico's lawyers argued the law only bars lawsuits over injuries that occur in the U.S. and does not shield the seven manufacturers and one distributor it sued from liability over the trafficking of guns to Mexican criminals.

U.S. Circuit Judge William Kayatta, writing for the three-judge panel, said that while the law can be applied to lawsuits by foreign governments, Mexico's lawsuit "plausibly alleges a type of claim that is statutorily exempt from the PLCAA's general prohibition."

He said that was because the law was only designed to protect lawful firearms-related commerce, yet Mexico had accused the companies of aiding and abetting illegal gun sales by facilitating the trafficking of firearms into the country.

Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena called the ruling "great news" in a post on the social media platform X. The country's U.S. lawyer, Steve Shadowen, called it "an important step forward in holding the gun industry accountable."

"It should now be clear that those who contribute to gun violence must face legal consequences, regardless of borders," Shadowen said in a statement.

Representatives for the gun makers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Mexico says over 500,000 guns are trafficked annually from the U.S. into Mexico, of which more than 68% are made by the companies it sued, which also include Beretta USA, Barrett Firearms Manufacturing, Colt's Manufacturing Co and Glock Inc.

In its August 2021 complaint, Mexico estimated that 2.2% of the nearly 40 million guns made annually in the U.S. are smuggled into Mexico, including as many as 597,000 guns made by the defendants.

Mexico said the smuggling has been a key factor in its ranking third worldwide in the number of gun-related deaths. It also claimed to suffer many other harms, including declining investment and economic activity and a need to spend more on law enforcement and public safety.

The companies deny wrongdoing. Their lawyers say Mexico's lawsuit is devoid of allegations the gun manufacturers' gun sales themselves did anything that would create an exception to PLCAA's broad protections.

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; additional reporting by Brendan O'Boyle and Kylie Mandry in Mexico City; editing by Marguerita Choy and Stephen Coates)
New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor reaches 490 ports in 120 countries, regions

Xinhua) 08:21, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 22. Tajikistan and Qatar are considering the establishment of a joint economic and investment fund, Trend reports.

According to the press service of the Tajik president, this matter was discussed during a meeting between the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, and the Chief of Asia-Pacific & Africa Investments at Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), Sheikh Faisal Bin Thani Al Thani, in Doha. Rahmon arrived at a state visit to Qatar on January 21.

During the meeting, Rahmon referred to Qatar as one of Tajikistan's important trade, economic, and investment partners. The parties discussed the further development and expansion of relations in the fields of industry and energy.

It was emphasized that there are significant opportunities for attracting Qatari investments into Tajikistan. In this regard, the Qatari side was proposed to participate in the implementation of several priority projects beneficial to both parties.

The discussions also covered the utilization of Tajikistan's vast transit potential in the Eurasian region, the renewable energy of the country, and cooperation in the fields of industry, mining, and processing of minerals.

Considering the capabilities and potential of Tajikistan, it was deemed beneficial for both sides for Qatar to invest capital in establishing wholesale and logistics distribution centers in Kyrgyzstan for processing, procurement, and exporting agricultural products to Qatar.
FILE PHOTO: The fuselage plug area of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 Boeing 737-9 MAX, which was forced to make an emergency landing with a gap in the fuselage, is seen during its investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in Portland,

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recommended that airlines operating Boeing 737-900ER jets inspect door plugs to ensure that they are properly secured after some operators reported unspecified issues with bolts upon inspections.

Regulators have stepped up scrutiny on Boeing after a Jan. 5 mid-air panel blowout on an eight-week-old Alaska Airlines MAX 9 jet that left a gaping hole in the aircraft. Boeing has sought to contain the damage, appointing an independent advisor to examine quality control in its manufacturing processes while numerous planes remain grounded.

The FAA grounded 171 Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes after the Jan. 5 incident.

In its new "Safety Alert for Operators," the FAA said that some airlines had conducted additional inspections on the 737-900ER mid-exit door plugs and had noted "findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections."

The 737-900ER is more widely used than the 737 MAX 9. It is an older model but has the same optional door plug design that allows for the addition of an extra emergency exit door when carriers opt to install more seats.

There are 490 Boeing 737-900ER jets in service, at least 79 of which have an active door rather than the plug because they are operated by low-cost airlines with denser cabins, according to Cirium data.

The FAA recommended that carriers perform key portions of a fuselage plug assembly maintenance procedure related to the four bolts used to secure the door plug to the airframe "as soon as possible."

A Boeing spokesperson said: "We fully support the FAA and our customers in this action."

Boeing first delivered the 737-900ER in 2007 and the last one in 2019.

Boeing shares were down 0.8% in morning trading on Monday. They are down more than 17% since the beginning of the year.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the only two U.S. carriers that use the MAX 9, this month said they had found loose parts on multiple grounded MAX 9 aircraft during preliminary checks.

They have had to cancel thousands of flights this month because of the grounding, with United cancellations extending at least through Friday. Alaska did not immediately comment on how long it planned to extend cancellations.

The FAA on Sunday said MAX 9 planes will remain grounded until it "is satisfied they are safe to return to service."

LITTLE 900ER DISRUPTION SEEN

In contrast to the new MAX 9 that experienced the door-plug issue, Boeing 737-900ER aircraft have more than 11 million hours of operation and 3.9 million flight cycles, and the FAA said the door plug "has not been an issue with this model."

Both United and Alaska said they had begun inspections of the door plugs on their 737-900ER fleets. United, which has 136 737-900ER aircraft, said inspections should be completed in the next few days without customer disruptions.

Alaska said its inspections began several days ago without any findings so far.

Delta Air Lines, the largest operator of the 900ER, said it had opted to take "proactive measures" to inspect its fleet. It does not expect any operational impact.

Globally, the three U.S. carriers operate the vast majority of the 737-900ERs with the door plugs.

A spokesperson for Korean Air, which has six 737-900ERs, said it planned to carry out additional inspections and finish them within 30 days without any schedule disruption.

The FAA on Wednesday said inspections of an initial group of 40 Boeing 737 MAX 9 jets had been completed, a key hurdle to ending the grounding of the model. The FAA is continuing to review data from those inspections.

FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker told Reuters this month that the FAA was "going through a process to work out how to restore confidence in the integrity of these plug doors."

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy last week said that the investigative agency would be looking at numerous records related to the door plug. She said it was unclear if the bolts on the Alaska Airlines jet were properly secured or if they were actually installed at all.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Additional reporting by Lisa Barrington, Tim Hepher and Abhijith Ganapavaram; Editing by Edwina Gibbs and David Goodman)
Two Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers fly alongside a pair of Japanese F-15 Eagle over the Sea of Japan Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (U.S. Forces Japan)

A pair B-1B Lancer bombers are in the Western Pacific training with U.S. allies and partners, according to Pacific Air Forces.

The supersonic heavy bombers assigned to the 345th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, arrived Thursday at Paya Lebar Air Base, Singapore, according to a PACAF statement the following day.

The B-1Bs arrived for training on air-to-air refueling with A330 tanker transports from the Singapore air force, according to the statement.

PACAF posted a photograph on X, formerly Twitter, Friday showing two B-1Bs flying alongside a pair of Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15 Eagle fighters.

A slide posted with the photo said the Dyess-based bombers trained Thursday over the Sea of Japan with four Japanese F-15s from the 2nd Air Wing at Chitose Air Base and the Northern Aircraft Control and Warning Wing at Misawa Air Base, both in Japan.

The training aimed to enhance bilateral response capabilities and tactical skills, according to the slide.

The Japan-based U.S. 5th Air Force referred queries about the training to Dyess public affairs office, which did not immediately respond to emails early Monday in Texas.

A pair of Air Force B-1Bs flew alongside South Korean and Japanese fighters on Dec. 20, three days after North Korea fired a pair of ballistic missiles.

The Lancers and two F-16 Fighting Falcons, along with two South Korean F-15Ks and two Japanese F-2s, flew east of Seouls Jeju Island south of the Korean Peninsula, according to a news release from the South Korean Ministry of National Defense that day.
Mark James, a voice in the documentary Pounders: We Are Who We Are, talks about his story and being involved in the project before the premiere at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024. (Kendall Warner, The Virginian-Pilot/TNS)

(Tribune News Service)  Lt. Col. Deborah Brown has spent her Army career offering spiritual guidance to service members. Now, she is trying to inspire others through her debut documentary.

Roughly 150 people, dressed to the nines, gathered on Jan. 13 at the downtown Norfolk Waterside Marriott for the premiere of Pounders: We Are Who We Are. The 40-minute documentary chronicles the lives of four individuals as they overcome the challenges of living with spinal cord injuries and pursue their passion of riding motorcycles.

They are the epitome of resilient, Brown said.

Brown, who lives in Williamsburg, Va., wrote and produced the film through her business, DAT Gypsy Productions. She first envisioned the venture 30 years ago but it took a backseat to her military career. She has served the Army as a chaplain for 23 years.

When asked about making a documentary now, she said it was all about the timing.

And on a spiritual level, God said I could, Brown added.

Brown brought this film to life with the help of her brother, Wendell Thompson, a Williamsburg resident who is living with a spinal cord injury. He is one of the four pounders featured in the documentary.

Thompson, a 59-year-old Army veteran, was injured in 1985 in a service-related incident. He is paralyzed from the waist down, and recently had his left leg amputated at the knee. He is still an avid motorcycle rider.

When we ride motorcycles, we pound the road, pound the highway, Thompson said. We are pounders despite being in wheelchairs. That is what this is about.

Riding motorcycles, Thompson said, frees his mind and his body from the wheelchair and helps him overpower negative perceptions, emotional struggles and physical obstacles.

I am not here to give up, he said. I am not about to. I never will.

Marcus Claude, 42, is the youngest and most recent pounder. The Emporia resident was driving in February when he nodded off behind the wheel about a mile from his home. His vehicle collided with a tractor trailer.

I spent all my life working, working, working and trying to save money, Claude said. But it was like God said, Hey man, I am going to put the brakes on you. 

Claude, a member of the National Guard, is going through the process of being medically discharged. He also served in the Army.

He said since his crash, he has a new lease on life and has grown closer with his family.

I lost the ability to run, jump and do all those things but on the flip side, I gained all these wonderful people in my life, Claude said.

The documentary was filmed in Williamsburg and Emporia, as well as New York City and Detroit, from July to October. JaeTech Studios, based in Hampton, handled the cinematography.

Other pounders featured are Mark James from New York City and Roosevelt Stevenson Jr. of Detroit. Brown hopes the four pounders stories  and those of their caregivers  will inspire others to overcome whatever challenges they face.

While Brown is still actively serving the Army at Fort Eustis in Newport News, she plans to dedicate more time to DAT Gypsy Productions and is looking to explore more stories that capture the essence of resilience and celebrate the human spirit.

It is about not quitting, Brown said. You cant quit because you are in pain. You cant quit because you had a stroke. You cant quit because we have a grip on you. We love you and we are going through it with you.

Pounders: We Are Who We Are can be streamed online at datgypsyproduction.com.

caitlyn.burchett@virginiamedia.com

2024 The Virginian-Pilot.

Visit pilotonline.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Navy Lt. Ridge Alkonis was convicted in October 2021 by a three-judge panel in Shizuoka District Court of negligent driving causing the deaths of two people and injuring a third in May 2021. (Patrick Dionne/U.S. Navy)

A Navy officers release by U.S. authorities from his prison term for two 2021 traffic deaths near Mount Fuji has stirred a wave of criticism by Japanese on social media.

Online critique of Lt. Ridge Alkonis release, ordered Jan. 12 by the U.S. Parole Commission, and his subsequent media appearances goes far beyond the scale sometimes leveled at the U.S. military in Japan, said Jeffrey Hall, a special lecturer at Kanda University of International Studies in Chiba prefecture.

For example, a post by @takigare3 outlining the details of the case on X, formerly Twitter, has received more than 29 million views since Jan. 16.

Alkonis went free from U.S. custody about a month after his December transfer from a Japanese prison where he served less than half of a three-year sentence for negligent driving causing the deaths of two Japanese citizens and injuries to a third in Fujinomiya, Japan.

Alkonis said mountain sickness caused him to fall unconscious behind the wheel following a family trip to Mount Fuji from Yokosuka Naval Base, where he was stationed, on May 29, 2021.

The car veered into a restaurant parking lot, striking vehicles and pedestrians and causing the deaths of an 85-year-old woman and her 54-year-old son-in-law. Alkonis expressed remorse over the deaths during his court appearances in summer and fall 2022.

On Jan. 15, Alkonis and his wife appeared on CNN and Fox News. In both interviews, the officer, whose friends and family paid $1.6 million to the victims families in restitution, said his remorse over the incident has never wavered.

Hall said those TV appearances, along with an X post by CNN anchor Jake Tapper can largely be blamed for the attention the story is getting on social media in Japan.

The pressure campaign to release Alkonis and his subsequent release received very little media attention in Japan, he told Stars and Stripes by email Friday. If they had not decided to draw attention to themselves with a post-release victory tour in the US news media, this event probably would have been largely unnoticed in Japan.

Tapper announced Alkonis release as GREAT AND BREAKING NEWS on Jan. 13 and shared a picture of the Alkonis family together in a car. The X post received more than 20 million views and 4,700 comments, many of which criticized Tapper for omitting the fact that two people had died in the incident. While most responses were written in English, a significant number of commenters sported Japanese usernames.

That day, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, used X to praise the familys reunification. The longtime Alkonis advocate also criticized the Japanese governments handling of the case.

America owes the Alkonis family a debt of gratitude, he wrote in a post thats been viewed more than 6 million times. Japan owes the family  and the U.S.  an apology.

In the following days, Japanese X users began posting about Alkonis media appearances and early release.

On Jan. 17, @roos2624 wrote: No matter how I think about it, I cant accept it. U.S. Sen. Mike Lee posted a video of the Alkonis family on X, but how does the victim, who lost her husband and mother and was injured herself, feel about this? Isnt it full of sad and regretful feelings? Her family will never be together again. Cruel.

On Jan. 18, @ikedanob wrote: Everyone from CNN to FOX is praising Lt. Alkonis parole and treating him like a hero after killing two people while driving drowsy. His wife says, The Japan-US Status of Forces Agreement should be revised. Will the Japanese government leave this alone? Why is the media silent?

The attention is unlikely to affect the U.S.-Japan relationship, and will likely fade quickly, Hall said.

Unless major Japanese mainstream media outlets start giving a lot more attention to this story, its probably not going to have a big impact on U.S.-Japan relations, he wrote. The Japanese government and the U.S. military will likely ignore the negative online reaction and proceed with business as usual.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti speaks to sailors and civilians during a visit to Naples, Italy, Jan. 22, 2024, Listening on stage is Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea. (Almagissel Schuring/U.S. Navy)

NAPLES, Italy  The Navys top officer and enlisted sailor visited Naval Support Activity Naples together Monday to meet with the services top leadership in Europe and speak with sailors and civilians, officials said.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea toured facilities, visited commands and took questions at an all hands call, said Cmdr. Richlyn Ivey, a spokeswoman for Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet.

Franchetti and Honea met with Adm. Stuart Munsch, commander of Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Force Command Naples. They also recognized sailors and civilians for their work during the visit, Ivey said.

Its important to talk to the fleet and see what they say out here at the pointed end of the spear and then to bring that perspective with me wherever we go, Franchetti said in a statement.

Franchetti reiterated her priorities, which were released earlier this month at the Surface Navy Associations National Symposium, Ivey said.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti listens to Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea speak during a visit to Naples, Italy, to tour facilities and meet with sailors and civilians on Jan. 22, 2024. (Almagissel Schuring/U.S. Navy)

Among them are advancing integration with the Marine Corps and aligning efforts with the Joint Force. The Navy also will prioritize readiness and capabilities as well as education and training for sailors and civilians, according to a Jan. 9 statement.

Honea met with NAVEUR-AF Fleet Master Chief Johannes J. Gonzalez and spoke with sailors in an enlisted leadership development class.

Ivey characterized Franchettis and Honeas time in Naples as a standard fleet visit, similar to a tour of Guam, Japan and South Korea in late November.

This also was a homecoming of sorts for Franchetti, who commanded U.S. 6th Fleet from 2018 to 2020.

The NAVEUR-AF/6th Fleet area of responsibility covers about half of the Atlantic Ocean, from the Arctic Ocean to the coast of Antarctica, as well as the Mediterranean Sea and other waters in Europe.

From Naples, Franchetti and Honea will visit Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily. During the visit, they will join representatives from the U.K., Canada, Norway and Germany for the first-ever P-8A Joint Exploration and Discussion Initiative Symposium.

Franchetti is the first woman to serve as the Navys highest officer. She was sworn in Nov. 2.
An F-16 Fighting Falcon maneuvers into a refueling position after an air-combat maneuvering sortie over Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, June 18, 2021, in support of RED FLAG-Alaska 21-2. (Mario Calabro/U.S. Air Force)

The F-16 Fighting Falcon turned 50 over the weekend  though if things had gone to plan, the military might have been celebrating the milestone next month.

Test pilot Phil Oestricher flew the prototype YF-16 for the first time Jan. 20, 1974, at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Originally meant to be a high-speed taxi run, the test turned into a six-minute flight as Oestricher took the jet into the air to avoid a crash, according to a 2020 article in Popular Mechanics and interviews with Oestricher.

We had an unfortunate wiring problem in the airplane where the exhaust nozzle would not open up, thus killing thrust, Oestricher said in a 2012 video interview with Lockheed Martin. The airplane was very sensitive in roll. It rolled violently left; I countered with an equally violent right command. We were instantly in whats called a pilot-induced oscillation, the airplane rolling back and forth very quickly. Its turning left all this time. I could see it was gonna go out into the dirt, so I just powered it up and let go of the controls, just let it fly away.

Oestricher again was behind the controls for the YF-16s first official flight Feb. 2, 1974. The first operational F-16A was delivered to 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, in January 1979, according to an Air Force fact sheet.

The F-16 was built under an unusual agreement between the United States and NATO countries Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands and Norway. Portugal has since joined the consortium.

F-16s have deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf, Operation Allied Force in Serbia, and during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. It can reach speeds of 1,500 mph (Mach 2) with a payload of two 2,000-pound bombs, two AIM-9, two AIM-120 and two 2400-pound external fuel tanks, according to the fact sheet.
Workers repair the entrance of City Hall riddled in large bullet holes in Villa Union, Mexico, Dec. 2, 2019, after 22 people were killed in a gun battle between a drug cartel and security forces. Mexico wants an urgent investigation into how U.S. military-grade weapons are increasingly being found in the hands of Mexican drug cartels, Mexicos top diplomat said on Jan. 22, 2024. (Eduardo Verdugo/AP)

MEXICO CITY  Mexico wants an urgent investigation into how U.S. military-grade weapons are increasingly being found in the hands of Mexican drug cartels, Mexicos top diplomat said Monday.

Mexicos army is finding belt-fed machine guns, rocket launchers and grenades that are not sold for civilian use in the United States.

The (Mexican) Defense Department has warned the United States about weapons entering Mexico that are for the exclusive use of the U.S. army, Foreign Relations Secretary Alicia Barcena said. It is very urgent that an investigation into this be carried out.

The Mexican army said in June that it had seized 221 fully automatic machine guns, 56 grenade launchers and a dozen rocket launchers from drug cartels since late 2018.

The military-grade U.S. weaponry  which cartels have bragged about and openly displayed on social media  poses a special challenge for Mexicos army, which along with police and the National Guard already faces cartels operating homemade armored vehicles and bomb-dropping drones.

In June, Defense Secretary Luis Cresencio Sandoval said five rocket launchers had been found in the possession of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, four were seized from the rival Sinaloa cartel and three more seized from other cartels. Sandoval did not specifically say the weapons were from U.S. military stockpiles.

Ken Salazar, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, confirmed Monday that Mexican officials had brought up the issue at meetings last week, and while he had not been aware of the problem, he pledged the United States would look into it.

We are going to look into it, we are committed to working with Sedena (Mexicos Defense Department) to see whats going on, Salazar said.

There are a number of possible routes by which the weapons may have made their way to Mexico. Central America was awash with U.S. weaponry during the conflicts of the 1980s, military grade weapons sometimes go missing from stocks in the United States, and some manufacturers who sell arms to the U.S. military might also have sold some abroad or on the black market.

While the Mexican army and marines still have superior firepower, the drug cartels weaponry often now outclasses other branches of Mexican law enforcement.

Mexico has long had a problem with semi-automatic rifles that are permitted for civilian use in the United States being smuggled into Mexico, where only low-caliber firearms are permitted and strictly regulated. Mexico has launched legal actions against U.S. arms manufacturers and gun shops, arguing that they contribute to violence.

On Monday, an appeals court in Boston, Massachusetts handed Mexico a victory in one of those actions, reviving a $10 billion lawsuit against seven U.S. gun manufacturers and one distributor. Mexico argued the companies knew weapons were being sold to traffickers who smuggled them into Mexico and decided to cash in on that market.

In 2022, a U.S. federal judge dismissed Mexicos claims based on the broad protection provided to gun manufacturers by a 2005 U.S. law, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, or PLCAA. The law shields gun manufacturers from damages resulting from the criminal or unlawful misuse of a firearm.

Mexico appealed that ruling, and on Monday the U.S. First Circuit Court of Appeals revived the lawsuit, saying the PLCAA did not apply to the claims the guns caused deaths, damages and injuries in Mexico. The appeals court returned the case to the lower court, to consider the facts in the case.

The Mexican government estimates 70% of the weapons trafficked into Mexico come from the U.S., according to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Also Monday, describing talks last week with U.S. officials, Barcena said the United States is planning to announce sanctions against airlines and transportation companies that move migrants to South and Central America and through Mexico to the U.S. border.

The United States said it was going to impose sanctions on South American and Central American companies that are transporting migrants irregularly, and they want us to do the same, Barcena said. The (Mexican) Interior Department is going to call on the bus and airline companies, but we dont want them (the United States) to act unilaterally.

Mexico, meanwhile, wants changes made to the U.S. CBP One mobile application for asylum-seekers to make appointments.

The app is designed only to work on telephones in northern Mexico, but Barcena said Mexico has asked that coverage be extended to allow appointments to be made from further south, to avoid a pileup of migrants rushing to Mexicos northern border cities.
Pyeongtaek University students try out a combat vehicle simulator during a tour of Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Jan. 17, 2024. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  More than 100 students from Pyeongtaek University recently toured this base south of Seoul and sampled a buffet of American military activities.

The students and other guests on Wednesday learned something about battlefield first aid, drove tank simulators and heard firsthand about the work of combat dive teams. The group tour at Americas largest military installation in the Pacific was sponsored by Culture Complex, or Culcom, an organization for Koreans who want to learn English.

Jin Huhyun, a student on the tour, said he recently finished his mandatory service in the South Korean military, where he often saw U.S. Navy or Air Force personnel.

I was curious about [South Korean] and American soldiers training together, he said.

Pyeongtaek University students learn the proper method of applying a tourniquet and patching and wrapping a wound during a tour of Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Jan. 17, 2024. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)

Two buses full of visitors started their tour with a group photograph at Eighth Army headquarters, then pastries and drinks at the Lt. Gen. Thomas S. Vandal Training Center.

Divided into six groups, the students moved from station to station. At the Medical Simulation Training Center, instructors demonstrated the proper method of applying a tourniquet and patching and wrapping a wound.

At the training centers diver training pool, students sat in the helicopter simulator and examined other equipment used in combat dive training.

After lunch at a base food court, they got behind the simulated controls of Army tanks and other combat vehicles.

Pyeongtaek University students learn how to play cornhole during a tour of Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Jan. 17, 2024. (Christopher Green/Stars and Stripes)

The day ended with more American food and games like Pictionary and the backyard classic, cornhole.

They didnt know a lot about the different trainings, water survival, MSTC medical trainings, so theyre more impressed, said Michelle Lacey, head tour and logistics planner for Eighth Army.
Japanese soldiers unload earthquake aid from a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at Noto Airport in Ishikawa prefecture, Japan, Jan. 17, 2024. (U.S. Forces Japan)

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  U.S. Army helicopters have delivered nearly 2,000 pounds of supplies in support of earthquake relief efforts in central Japan, according to U.S. Forces Japan.

Two UH-60 Black Hawks from U.S. Army Aviation Battalion Japan, headquartered at Camp Zama, southwest of central Tokyo, last week joined Japanese forces aiding victims of a deadly earthquake that struck Japans west coast on New Years Day.

The quake collapsed buildings, shredded highways and, as of Monday, had killed 232 and injured 1,025 in towns and villages on the Noto Peninsula, according to data released by the Japanese government.

The quake damaged almost 12,000 homes and forced nearly 16,000 people to evacuate to temporary shelters, according to Major Disaster Management Headquarters data posted on the Cabinet Office website.

We are here to support our Tomodachi (friends), USFJ posted Friday on its official X account, along with a photo of Japanese troops unloading boxes from a Black Hawk.

A day earlier, USFJ posted a photo of Japanese and U.S. soldiers planning the mission at Komatsu Air Base, a Japanese installation in Ishikawa prefecture.

U.S. forces readied logistical support, food and other supplies for the victims, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel wrote Jan. 5 on X. The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo announced a $100,000 aid package that day that included essential resources such as blankets, water, and medical supplies through Peace Winds Japan, a nongovernmental organization.
The European Union can avoid getting swept up into Chinas response to U.S. chip-equipment curbs, Beijings ambassador in The Hague said in an interview with a Dutch newspaper.

If the Americans treat us in a hegemonic manner, we will of course respond, said Tan Jian, Chinese ambassador to the Netherlands, in an interview with NRC published Sunday. But our relationship with the EU should not be affected.

The Netherlands is home to ASML Holding NV, which makes the worlds most advanced chipmaking gear and has been drawn into a geopolitical spat as the Biden administration seeks to curtail Beijings ambitions in the semiconductor industry. An expanded ban on the companys sales of certain high-end equipment to China took effect this month.

The U.S. has stretched its idea of security far, too far, even to matters that have nothing to do with military risks, he said in the interview. And they are putting pressure on their allies to do the same.

Earlier this month, ASML said it canceled shipments of some machines to China after the Dutch government partially revoked export licenses. The move was at the request of President Joe Bidens administration and came weeks before the ban took effect, Bloomberg reported earlier this month.

The White House has made it clear to China that the U.S. is trying to de-risk, not de-couple, White House spokesman John Kirby said Monday when asked about Tans comments.

Our decisions in terms of of these export licenses is really designed specifically to make sure that we can continue to protect US national security, Kirby continued, saying companies make their own decisions.

Tan said dialog with the Dutch government needs to improve to prevent the situation from getting worse. Chinese companies were finding it more difficult to operate in the bloc due to increased controls, political pressure and disinformation, according to Tan.

European China policy is confusing, he said. China is referred to as a cooperation partner, an economic competitor and a systemic rival.

With assistance from Diederik Baazil and Michelle Jamrisko.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 22. Tajikistan and Qatar discussed the attraction of Qatari investment in Tajikistan's energy sector, Trend reports.

According to the Tajik president's press service, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon and Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri, Chairman of the Board of Nebras Power, discussed this during Rahmon's state visit to Qatar.

Rahmon referred to this meeting as crucial for the development of trade, economic, and investment cooperation between the countries, emphasizing its importance.

It was highlighted that Qatari investments would make a significant contribution to the practical implementation of Tajikistan's priority projects in energy field.

During the meeting, Rahmon emphasized that Tajikistan possesses immense potential in renewable energy sources. In pursuit of developing a green economy, the country's government has adopted the 'Green Economy Development Strategy for 2023-2037'.

Rahmon underscored the ongoing efforts in Tajikistan to generate electricity from various renewable sources, including solar and wind energy.
Walter Biot, a former Italian navy captain, was found guilty of disclosing national secrets, espionage and corruption by an Italian criminal court in Rome on Jan. 19, 2023, and sentenced to 20 years in prison. (U.S. Air Force)

NAPLES, Italy  A former Italian navy captain has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for selling classified NATO documents and other information to a military attache at the Russian Embassy in Rome.

Walter Biot, 58, was found guilty by an Italian criminal court Friday of espionage, corruption and disclosing national secrets, the Italian news agency Ansa reported the same day.

Those secrets included details on the fight against terrorism in Syria, where a U.S. military-led coalition continues operations to defeat the Islamic State group.

Other documents focused on Libya, potential NATO weaknesses and critical naval issues, according to Italian news media reports.

The U.S. has Air Force, Army and Navy bases in Italy, and the highest ranking American naval officers also hold command titles within the NATO alliance.

Prosecutors said the former frigate captain handed a USB stick with more than 180 images from his work computer screen to the Russian attache in a Rome parking lot in late March 2021, according to the Ansa report.

Among the images he gave to the attache were 104 documents marked NATO secret and NATO confidential, and another nine marked confidential, according to the Ansa report.

At least one document was marked top secret, and prosecutors were uncertain whether the Russian had previously received other information from Biot, a married father of four, the news agency reported at the time of Biots arrest March 30, 2021.

The verdict came nearly a year after a separate military tribunal sentenced Biot to 30 years in prison in the same case for giving military secrets to the Russian Embassy attache in March 2021 in exchange for about $5,400.

In the earlier trial, a witness testified in a hearing in October 2022 that the strategic analysis section where Biot worked dealt with highly sensitive military operations, including those of NATO, the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera reported at the time of Biots March 9, 2023 conviction.

Biot was seen in three undercover videos in mid-March 2021 taking the photos on his cellphone in his Defense Ministry office.

Italy expelled the attache and another Russian diplomat shortly after Biots arrest.

Biot is incarcerated at an Italian military prison near Naples and plans to appeal both Fridays sentence and the military courts decision, Barrons reported on Friday.

His attorney called the dual prosecution unprecedented, Barrons said.
U.S. soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division fire artillery during an exercise at al Asad Air Base in Iraq on Dec. 1, 2023. The base has been a target of attacks by Iranian-backed militants. (Quince Lanford/U.S. Army)

Iranian attacks against three neighboring countries indicate that Tehran has been emboldened by the performance of its militia proteges and raise questions about whether it will directly challenge the U.S. and its partners in the Middle East.

Iran has long preferred to fight a shadow war by funding militant groups, which have intensified their attacks on U.S. troops in the region since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October.

But missile strikes last week in Syria, Iraq and Pakistan that were claimed by Irans powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps came after its proxies inflicted damage on U.S. military positions at a relatively low cost to Tehran, analysts said.

Id say Irans leaders have been riding high, said Jonathan Lord, a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security.

The direct attacks most likely came from a feeling of invincibility as a result of recent successes by proxy groups, which could lead to miscalculation and overreach, Lord said.

The destroyer USS Gravely launches Tomahawk missiles in the Red Sea on Jan. 12, 2024, in response to the repeated attacks on commercial shipping by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in Yemen. (Jonathan Word/U.S. Navy)

Irans proxies have repeatedly attacked U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, including a strike Saturday on al-Asad air base in Iraq that required personnel to be evaluated for traumatic brain injuries. Two cases have been diagnosed so far, U.S. Central Command and Pentagon officials said.

Its unlikely that Iran would have launched and claimed direct attacks on other countries had the U.S. responded more forcefully against the militant groups targeting U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, said Alex Plitsas, a senior fellow with the Washington-based Atlantic Council.

One hundred percent, if they felt that they were going to be held accountable for the actions theyre taking, they wouldnt be doing what theyre doing, said Plitsas, an Army veteran. If you let people get away with things, theyll try to get away with more.

Meanwhile, the U.S. says Iran is directly involved in ship attacks by Houthi militants against shipping in the Red Sea, The Associated Press reported Monday.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, the head of the Navys 5th Fleet, called the attacks on shipping the most significant in two generations.

While the U.S. has blamed Iran for backing these groups financially, there has been little direct action against Tehran for its support, analysts said.

Tehran knows the U.S. has few options to strike back that do not risk starting an open-ended conflict. The White Houses stated goal in the Middle East is to prevent the war between Israel and Hamas from igniting the region.

American airmen from the 443rd Air Expeditionary Squadron offload cargo at Irbil Air Base in Iraq on July 28, 2023. The base was attacked by an Iranian-backed militia in December, and three U.S. service members were wounded. (Breanna Diaz/U.S. Air Force)

Analysts say the U.S. deserves credit for its efforts to stave off warfare in Lebanon, where the heavily armed militant group Hezbollah has mostly remained on the sidelines.

But the U.S. consistent signal that it does not want a wider war has given Iran leeway to be more aggressive.

You cannot just rule out possibility of an escalation and at the same time you hope for achieving deterrence, said Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute. The United States probably needs to regain initiative, but that also increases the risks of escalation, obviously.

At least 83 U.S. troops have been injured in 151 attacks by Iranian-linked militants in Iraq and Syria since October, Maj. Pete Nguyen, a Pentagon spokesman, said Monday.

That tally includes Chief Warrant Officer 4 Garrett Illerbrunn, who was severely wounded in a Christmas Day drone and missile attack at his base in Irbil in northern Iraq.

Illerbrunn was evacuated to Germany and later transferred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland.

But the death of a U.S. service member in a proxy attack would increase pressure on the White House to respond more forcefully against Tehran.

Because red lines are blurry in the Middle East right now, miscalculation would be easy and could also trigger a wider war, said Jennifer Kavanagh, senior fellow in the American Statecraft Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Only a diplomatic and political approach is likely to finally contain and de-escalate the conflicts.
Hanna Shapiro with her sons Ezra, 2, and Elon, 4, at home in Tel Aviv. (Heidi Levine/for The Washington Post)

TEL AVIV  Last summer, the Shapiros gave Israel a deadline. If the right-wing government continued its push to take power from the courts  a campaign that the couple believed put democracy, womens rights and LGBTQ+ progress in jeopardy  they would leave.

We said, Lets give it six months,  recalled Hanna Shapiro, a 35-year-old graphic designer. She protested the government almost weekly, pushing the strollers of two boys she didnt want serving in the army of a country they saw drifting from their ideals of equity and justice.

Then came Oct. 7, when Hamas-led fighters streamed out of Gaza to rampage through Israeli communities. Authorities say they killed around 1,200 Israelis, most of them civilians, and kidnapped about 240 more.

Now, as the Israel Defense Forces devastate Gaza, rockets fly overhead and war looms in Lebanon, the Shapiros say they can no longer imagine living anywhere else.

I feel more Israeli than ever, said Shapiro, who immigrated here from Paris a decade ago. Last year, I thought I dont need to be Israeli; I can just be a Jewish woman somewhere in the world living my life.

Now, I cant pretend that Im not part of these people.

For thousands of liberal Israelis, Oct. 7 spurred an impulse not to flee, but to double down on a nation they had feared was heading toward autocracy and theocracy. Many Israelis overseas hurried home. Military reservists who had been boycotting their training raced back to their units. Democracy activists retooled the movement into a vast civil volunteer network.

Some of the progressive, secular, cosmopolitan Israelis who agonized over a political arena that ranged from right to far-right are now describing themselves for the first time as Zionists, centering the countrys founding role as a global haven for Jews rather than its current positioning as a creative high-tech hub.

Jewish people in Israel are dying for Jewish people in the rest of the world to have a Plan B one day, Shapiro said. We have to be here.

Israelis in Tel Aviv mark 100 days on Jan. 13, 2024, since hostages were taken captive in the Oct. 7 attack. (Heidi Levine/for The Washington Post)

After a year in which leaders warned of civil war, Israelis across the political spectrum have quickly unified around an external enemy. Two-thirds of Israelis back the military goal of eliminating Hamas, polls show. That support has barely wavered in the face of growing international condemnation  much of it from the left  of the deaths of more than 25,000 people in Gaza in Israels war on Hamas, most of them civilians, according to the health ministry there.

Support for the war isnt unanimous. Some 2,000 Israeli Arabs and Jews marched through Tel Aviv last week to demand an end to the fighting. A typical sign: Only peace will bring security. Speakers included three survivors of Oct. 7.

Paradoxically in a time of war and danger, many liberals now report feeling better about Israel, at least for now. The percentage of left-wing Israelis who feel optimistic about the future nearly doubled in the weeks after Oct. 7, from 21 to 41 percent, according to the Israel Democracy Institute.

The pivot has been driven by familiar factors, sociologists said, including the initial rally-around-the-flag effect that all countries experience during war. But the single deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust tapped into deep cultural memories, even among secular Israelis, of pogroms and exile going back millennia.

Many have said their sense of welcome outside Israel has been challenged by a disorienting rise in antisemitism in places they had happily grown up, studied, worked, found community and sometimes marched for liberal causes. Videos of Israelis murdered and mutilated focused the sense of vulnerability  and identity  even among secular Israelis in ways that textbooks and grandparents stories never did.

They became Jews overnight, said Eva Illouz, professor of sociology at Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Suddenly they get it. They feel themselves the object of world hatred.

Asaf Ben-Haim, a 37-year-old doctoral student in archaeology in Jerusalem, grew up in central Israel hearing his Hungarian grandmother talk of fleeing the Nazis and his Iraqi grandfather of being chased out from Baghdads Jewish quarter.

They seldom went 10 minutes, he said, without referencing the miracle of Israel. But the concept of Israel as sanctuary didnt fully register, as he enjoyed his progressive, cosmopolitan life: coming out as gay in the countrys open-minded middle class; living in San Francisco for three years while his husband studied at Stanford.

The couple returned in 2021  in time to join last years protests against judicial overhaul. They decided on red lines that might send them back overseas: tilting the selection process for Supreme Court justices; rolling back gay rights.

He might be miserable living away from Israel, Ben-Haim thought, but at least hed be free. He was among the first army reservists to declare a boycott on training until the government backed down.

But Oct. 7 brought his grandparents warnings to life. He was back in uniform within weeks.

The shock of the Hamas attack, he said, was followed by equally alarming aftershocks: Palestinian civilians in Gaza and the West Bank cheering the killing of Jews; the refusal of some of his own liberal allies to condemn the attacks.

He remembers statements by fellow academics that glossed over evidence of rape and torture. When he saw Black Lives Matter posts on Oct. 11 that featured a hang glider, one of the devices Hamas used to attack Israeli neighborhoods, labeled I Stand with Palestine, he thought of the BLM shirt in his closet and the marches for racial justice hed joined in California.

It should be easy to say both that the occupation [of Palestinian territories] is bad and Hamas did horrible things, he said. They do not contradict each other.

Demonstrators hold orange balloons during a rally in Tel Aviv for Kfir Bibas, an Israeli toddler taken hostage on Oct. 7, on his first birthday Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. (Heidi Levine/for The Washington Post)

Shai Rapoport, 33, moved to London almost four years ago to study art. He felt at home in Londons cultural mix, and joined fellow expats protesting the Israeli government. After Oct. 7, he said, he felt a chill from his liberal and Muslim friends. Then outright hostility.

Now hes moving back to Israel, wars and all. I felt that people who were once my friends have become my aggressors, he said from London. Here, I feel terribly alone.

Criticism of Israel has grown with new images daily of bloodied children and broken rubble in Gaza, where an estimated two-thirds of buildings are believed to have been destroyed or damaged. Women and children account for 70 percent of the dead, according to Gaza health officials, in a campaign that military analysts say has been one of the most destructive in modern history.

Each of the liberal Israelis interviewed for this article said they deplored the killing of so many Palestinian civilians. Each said they still supported the goal of an independent Palestinian state if it can exist without threatening Israeli lives  a view that three-quarters of left-leaning Israelis continue to share. But all said they could not think of an alternative to all-out war against militants who have embedded themselves in the civilian population and pledge to attack again.

I think the massacre of October 7th has created a very simple mentality: Its either them or us, Illouz said.

But for those who logged hours protesting the government, newfound dedication to Israel doesnt equal support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or his coalition. In this, it is the larger public that has swung their way: More than two-thirds of all Israelis now say that they want Netanyahu out of office.

Politics are slowly coming back. The frequent rallies pushing for the release of hostages have been joined in recent weeks by demonstrations against Netanyahu.

Shapiro has filled her free time in the past three months at hostage protests and volunteering for the civil society groups that grew out of the democracy movement. She raises money and visits the family members of hostages and soldiers and Israelis displaced from the borders with Gaza and Lebanon, where the risk of war with Hezbollah militants is heating up.

She remembers the anguish she and her husband felt last year, fearing that the Israel they loved was morphing into something they couldnt endure, that they would be nomads, like Jewish people always have been.

Now, despite the chaos, the contradictions, the danger  My biggest fear is really Hezbollah  all thoughts of leaving Israel are gone.

Its a crazy place to be, she said. But it isnt just my community anymore. Its my family.
A week before storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, insurrectionists sent this letter to the Folger Shakespeare Library, warning of their upcoming action and pledging that the library would not be a target. (Folger Shakespeare Library)

While insurrectionists were plotting to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, they took time to write and send a letter to an institution two blocks from their target: the Folger Shakespeare Library, the worlds largest collection of material related to the English playwright.

We will be blocking access to your building  to prevent our persons of grievance from using you as a loophole, read the insurrectionists letter, which circulated on a pro-Trump message board called TheDonald before the insurrection and was published this month in the Folgers online archive.

The letter explained that the insurrectionists would create a 2.4-mile blockade surrounding all buildings to which the U.S. Capitol has underground tunnels to  including the John Adams Building of the Library of Congress, with which the Folger shares a block  presumably to prevent those inside the Capitol from escaping through the buildings.

This is nothing personal to the library itself, the letter continued. We have no intention of damaging, trespassing, or otherwise altering your facility in any way.  We sincerely apologize in advance to any inconvenience this may cause you  we are simply citizens practicing our 1st amendment rights and are only involving you by happenstance.

The letter was postmarked Dec. 29, 2020, and mailed from Minnesota. But the Folger didnt receive it until almost two weeks after the insurrection, said Melanie Bender Martin, a spokesperson for the library. The letter is now in the librarys digital archive and will soon be made accessible to the public in the physical archive.

As a library, we felt we had a duty to preserve the letter and make it available for future generations to reference, Martin said. The Folger, with the exception of its theater, is currently closed for renovations, but when it reopens in June, Martin said, any member of the public will be able to make an appointment to view the letter in the buildings reading room.

It appears the Folger was singled out by the letter writers. Bill Ryan, communications director for the Library of Congress, told The Washington Post, We have no record of having received a letter of this kind.

The letter received by the Folger Shakespeare Library from people plotting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection. (Folger Shakespeare Library)

It might seem odd that the insurrectionists sent the letter to an institution that memorializes Shakespeare. But the Bards relationship to white nationalism  and specifically to a white American identity  has been long documented by scholars, including those who have drawn comparisons between the playwrights works and the Jan. 6 insurrection.

In particular, white nationalists have invoked the play Julius Caesar to emblematize Americas white Shakespearean-Roman inheritance, Shakespeare scholar Arthur L. Little Jr., an associate professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, wrote in the introduction of a 2023 book he edited called White People in Shakespeare.

The Shakespearean tragedy follows the assassination of Julius Caesar, the ancient Roman dictator, by a group of conspirators who believed themselves to be guardians of democracy and feared Caesar was gaining too much power. The Jan. 6 insurrectionists  many of whom were neo-Nazis and white supremacists  claimed they were saving American democracy from election fraud by storming the Capitol.

While its quite likely very few if any of those assembled at the Capitol on that day thought of Shakespeare or theatre  resonances of a white Shakespeare haunted the insurrection, wrote Little. Emulating Shakespeares fierce fiery warriors, the January-sixth insurrectionists, too, wanted to do more than imagine drizzled blood upon the Capitol: five people died and some one hundred and fifty were injured. It was white peoples Shakespearean theatre on a grand scale.

The letter sent to the Folger suggests that some insurrectionists actually did think of Shakespeare leading up to the event. I have drafted this short letter to the Folger Shakespeare Library as it will be within our perimeter and they have nothing to do with our protest or the theft of the election, wrote a user named Minn2000 on TheDonald. The letter was signed anonymously by #Stopthesteal protest participants.

But Shakespeares relationship to white nationalism isnt confined to the Jan. 6 insurrection; it has a long history that draws on Shakespeares role in constructing a white racial and cultural identity. Although Shakespeare was English, he has been invoked as a symbol of American linguistic and cultural heritage since before the revolutionary period. This heritage has often been tied to white supremacy.

The Folger Shakespeare Librarys first director, Joseph Quincy Adams (a relative of John Adams and John Quincy Adams), said in a speech at the librarys dedication that immigrants who were not from Northern or Western Europe swarmed the land like the locust in Egypt, and he saw Shakespeare as cementing Americas white, Anglo-Saxon heritage.

The sentiments in that inaugural speech were an artifact at the time, but theyre also completely at odds with our sense that Shakespeare can be a vehicle for talking about what it means to live in a free and just society, one that is multiracial and democratic, current Folger director Michael Witmore told The Post. A day after the Jan. 6 insurrection, the Folger published a statement denouncing the events.

While the Folger has distanced itself from its white nationalist origins and has made efforts to promote inclusivity, the relationship between Shakespeare and white nationalism has persisted into the present.

In June 2017, the summer after Trumps election, two right-wing activists interrupted a New York Public Theater production of Julius Caesar, which depicted a controversial Trump-like Caesar in a production they believed represented political violence against the right.

Other American stagings of Shakespeare have also been embroiled in debates about white nationalism. In 1916, a New York production inspired by The Tempest represented an Anglo-American claim to Shakespeare by using Prosperos authority to represent the dominance of Western thought and portraying Caliban, a dark-skinned man representing foreign-born populations, falling at his feet, Shakespeare scholar Elisabeth H. Kinsley noted in her 2019 book, Here in This Island We Arrived: Shakespeare and Belonging in Immigrant New York. This stood in contrast to the defiance of Shakespeares own Caliban against Prospero in the original play, Kinsley wrote.

Another famous invocation of Shakespeare in the service of white nationalism was directly rooted in violence. John Wilkes Booth, Abraham Lincolns assassin, came from a family of stage actors; his brother Edwin played some of Shakespeares most famous characters. Booth even starred in a production of Julius Caesar alongside his brother, playing Marc Antony, Caesars second-in-command, depicted by Shakespeare as loyal to the Roman dictator.

But Booth, a Confederate sympathizer and white supremacist, identified more with Shakespeares Brutus, who turned on Caesar; he invoked the character after shooting Lincoln, shouting, sic semper tyrannis (thus always to tyrants), a quote attributed to the real Brutus after he helped kill Caesar.

After being hunted like a dog last night  I am here in despair, Booth wrote in his diary after the assassination. And why? For doing what Brutus was honored for.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 22. Tajikistan and Qatar discussed further collaboration on the construction of the Diar Dushanbe residential complex in Tajikistan's capital, Trend reports.

According to the Tajik president's press service, this project was discussed during the meeting between President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon and Ahmad Mohammad Noor Al Tayeb, Chief Investment officer in Qatari Diar real estate investment company, within the frame of Rahmon's state visit to Qatar.

The need for timely completion of the upcoming phases of the residential complex was emphasized during the meeting. It was highlighted that with the improvement of the country's socio-economic situation, there is a growing demand for modern infrastructure, including housing and the establishment of contemporary large-scale shopping centers in Tajikistan.

It was deemed beneficial for both parties to attract capital from the Qatari company for the construction of social facilities and the development of tourism infrastructure in Tajikistan.

According to the Diar Dushanbe project website, the complex, currently partly operational, includes a business center, a shopping center with boutique spaces, restaurants, cafes, and fully furnished apartments.

Key tenants at the complex are the heads of diplomatic missions and staff from various embassies accredited in Tajikistan, as well as heads of international organizations.
Frank Goplen, who turned 100 years old Saturday, has told the story of his World War II service many times. Among a dwindling number of WWII POWs still alive in Minnesota, Goplens voice is among the last living links to a conflict fought to overthrow dictatorships and preserve fundamental freedoms. He tells his story to reinforce and preserve the memory. (Facebook)

ZUMBROTA, Minn. (Tribune News Service)  Frank Goplen, who turned 100 years old Saturday, has told the story of his World War II service many times.

Schoolchildren have always been his best audience. They ask the best questions. They will hug him as he leaves the classroom.

It wasnt always that way. Growing up, Mary Goplen and her two siblings had only the sketchiest of details of their dads wartime service as an airman in the Army Air Corps or his time in a German prisoner of war camp after he and his crew parachuted over Europe from their crippled bomber.

All that they knew, indisputably, was that rutabaga was never permitted at the dinner table. Goplen ate a lot of rutabaga during his captivity in a POW camp in the last nine months of the war in the mid-1940s  that and bread made from sawdust.

We always joked about that, he said. As part of our wedding contract, rutabaga would never appear in our house.

Yet, as significant and defining as the war was in his life, it didnt and shouldnt, from Goplens point of view, overshadow things that happened subsequently  like his life spent with his wife to whom he was married for nearly 70 years until her death at 91 or raising a family or working at IBM where he was the chief designer on 30 patents or catching a near-world-record barracuda on a Florida fishing trip or so many other things

That was the stuff that gave life joy, that gave life meaning.

The war, on the other hand, was an evil necessity. Fewer than 120,000  or less than 1%  of the 16.1 million Americans who served during World War II are alive as of 2023, according to The National WWII Museum.

Among a dwindling number of WWII POWs still alive in Minnesota, Goplens voice is among the last living links to a conflict fought to overthrow dictatorships and preserve fundamental freedoms. He tells his story to reinforce and preserve the memory. Hes still doing that.

I was 18 years and I needed to go help our country, he said.

Goplen was co-piloting his 39th bombing mission on July 1, 1944, when his B-24 bomber was damaged by three bursts of anti-aircraft fire over Munich.

With the gas systems shot out and two engines disabled, they made for Switzerland. But the plane was losing altitude and getting slower all the time.

So the 10-man crew bailed over Austria. Goplen parachuted into a small village, where a local militia member was waiting for him and said the war was over for him.

For a time, Goplen and others were held in a civilian jail by local police. It was a dangerous situation. Civilians there were angry and looking to exact revenge. Eventually, prisoners were taken by rail to Stalag Luft I near Barth, Germany. The guards along the route were cruel.

Our arrival at the prison camp was a relief. Having the gates close behind you separated you from the civilian population. That was the scary part. There were cases where prisoners were lynched, Goplen said.

There were 15,000 to 16,000 allied service members in the prison camp, and Goplen tried to use the time as best he could. He learned how to play bridge. The prisoners were often better informed than their captors about the state of the war. American prisoners huddled around a low-powered radio smuggled inside camp that broadcast BBC news. The Germans were losing.

The worst part, Goplen said, was the uncertainty, thinking of home and knowing his dad had received a telegraph that his son was missing in action. It was easy to assume the worst.

Yet, in Goplens case, in an almost freakish coincidence, home was never completely absent as he discovered two airmen prisoners from Zumbrota. He hadnt known them before, because he had graduated from Wanamingo and they from Zumbrota.

The day they learned that President Franklin Roosevelt had died, Goplen and other prisoners broke out black armbands.

The prisoners knew that Germans were losing the war. The Russian army was advancing, the sound of their artillery explosions getting ever closer.

When the Russians were getting close, the Germans were getting nervous, Goplen said. And when they got close enough, they left in the middle of the night.

After nine months of captivity, Goplens first recollection of freedom was seeing a group of prisoners running at the barbed wire fence and tearing it down with their bare hands.

He also witnessed the dehumanization and death of the slave labor camps used by the Germans.

You wouldnt believe it. People laying in their bunks. They were a lot thinner than we were, said Goplen, who weighed 127 pounds after returning home from the POW campus, down from 180 pounds when he joined the Army in 1942.

They were flown to an ex-POW-processing station in France. One day, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in Europe, showed up at the camp. Someone asked Eisenhower how long they were to stay at the camp. Eisenhower turned to his aide and said, get them out of here. The next day, they received shipping orders.

Goplen was preparing to be transported to the Pacific Theater where the battle with Japan still raged when the U.S. dropped two atomic bombs on Japan and ended the war.

Goplen didnt talk about the war when he returned home. Not talking about it was the easiest way to forget. But memories had a way of burbling up. Goplen would sometimes wake up in the middle of the night and have to be consoled by his wife, Mary.

She was an expert at saying, its OK, Frank,  he said.

Goplen started to get involved with American ex-Prisoners of War when the organization started gaining traction. An ex-POW meeting was held in the Kasson VFW basement one day. It was the first time Goplen had participated in such an event.

A dozen ex-POWs were sitting in a circle, and they began talking to each other about their war experiences. Behind them was a circle of women, their wives listening to stories they had never heard before.

There was relief in sharing the stories, in telling people who endured similar trauma.

Goplen has spoken in numerous classrooms about his war experience since then. He has participated in local WWII roundtables. He does it for a simple reason.

Its important for kids to know that war is hell. That freedom isnt free, Goplen said.

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A Ghost Army soldier stands before an inflatable tank used to deceive enemies in World War II. (Ghost Army Legacy Project)

WASHINGTON  The surviving members of a secret World War II unit that deceived and tricked Germans on the battlefield will receive a Congressional Gold Medal in a long-awaited March ceremony at the Capitol.

Congress will bestow its highest honor to the Ghost Army on March 21 in recognition of the unique role the unit played in helping defeat Nazi Germany by misleading German forces about the size and location of Allied troops and allowing actual units time to maneuver.

Lawmakers voted in 2022 to award the medal to the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops and the 3133rd Signal Service Company. At the time, nine former members of the 1,100-man Ghost Army were alive. Just seven members survive today and several are expected to attend the ceremony.

The presentation of the medal will cap a 20-year effort by the nonprofit Ghost Army Legacy Project to raise awareness about the creative exploits of the Ghost Army after its existence was declassified in 1996.

Soldiers with the Ghost Army landed in Europe shortly before D-Day  June 6, 1944  and carried out more than 20 deception campaigns through the end of the war, using inflatable dummy tanks, prerecorded tracks of troops in action, fake radio dispatches and other tactics to fool the enemy.

Operations by the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops were often dangerously close to the front lines in France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. Two deceptions were carried out in Italy by the 3133rd Signal Service Company.

What made the Ghost Army special was not just their extraordinary courage, but their creativity, said Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., the sponsor of the House bill that authorized the medal.

Many members were pulled from art schools, advertising agencies and other professions that required imagination and encouraged creative thought. Soldiers drew inspiration from their civilian careers as artists, architects, engineers and lawyers to think up elaborate illusions.

Their success at misdirection led the Germans to believe the small Ghost Army was much larger than its actual size.

In a final deception campaign, the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops impersonated two divisions to convince the enemy that the U.S. Army would cross the Rhine River ten miles south of its actual crossing point. More than 600 dummy vehicles were inflated for the effort as the Ghost Army played sounds of soldiers building pontoon boats and transmitted false radio dispatches.

The charade allowed U.S. troops to enter Germany with little resistance. Military analysts have credited Ghost Army soldiers for saving 30,000 American lives during the war.

Rarely, if ever, has there been a group of such a few men that had so great an influence on the outcome of a major military campaign, said Army analyst Mark Kronman, according to the Ghost Army Legacy Project.

The surviving members of the Ghost Army include James Tom Anderson of Delaware, Bernard Bluestein of Illinois, John Christman of New Jersey, George Dramis of North Carolina, William Nall of Florida, Seymour Nussenbaum of New Jersey and John Smith of Michigan.

Its a thrill to have that honor, Bluestein said of the medal in an interview with Smithsonian Magazine in 2022. If you ask most of us, we never thought much about what we did. We did what we had to do in the war ... and that was it.
Terry Connors (24) had a significant cocaine addiction at the time he stole the box in a city centre bar, a court heard

A thief who snatched a charity box from a pub counter had 143 previous criminal convictions, a court heard.

Terry Connors (24) had a significant cocaine addiction at the time he stole the box in a city centre bar, a court heard.

Judge Anthony Halpin fined him 100 when he appeared in Dublin District Court.

Connors, of Glen Druid, Shanganagh Road, Shankill pleaded guilty to theft.

The court heard the incident happened at Briodys pub on Marlborough Street on March 28, 2022.

The accused went inside and took the box containing 15 from the counter, then ran out of the pub. He was stopped and gardai arrested him.

This is 144 so, an even number, the judge said when told of Connorss criminal record.

The accused was already serving a sentence for another offence when he appeared in court and was using his time in prison well, including taking a barbering course, his barrister Ciara Murray said.

He was engaged to his partner and hoped to marry her when released from prison.

Fining the accused, Judge Halpin said the value of the theft was low enough and noted the tremendous progress Connors had made while in prison.
Dublin District Court heard gardai were on duty on December 4 last year at Mountjoy Square when they saw the accused lying on the ground, screaming and flailing his arms and legs

A young man punched a trainee garda in the face when officers tried to stop him eating a chocolate bar on the advice of paramedics.

Gardai were waiting for an ambulance for Amarbayasgalant Batjargal (19), after finding him flailing on the ground, when he became incredibly hostile at being told he could not eat anything, a court heard.

Judge Gerard Jones adjourned the case for a victim impact statement.

Batjargal, of Greeg Court, Parnell Street, pleaded guilty to assault, obstruction and threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour.

Dublin District Court heard gardai were on duty on December 4 last year at Mountjoy Square when they saw the accused lying on the ground, screaming and flailing his arms and legs.

He was going in and out of consciousness, jumping to his feet and falling over, Garda Sergeant Michelle Lynch said.

An ambulance was called and members of the fire brigade instructed gardai that the accused should not eat anything.

Batjargal attempted to eat a chocolate bar and when the garda tried to stop him, he became incredibly hostile.

He swung his fist at the garda, missed, and hit the trainee garda on the side of his face. The accused continued to be aggressive and violent and refused to give his personal details and contact information.

Batjargal had no previous convictions.

Judge Jones said the trainee garda would have to be asked if he wished to make victim impact statement.

He remanded the accused on continuing bail to a date next month.
The pair entered the shop on Letterkenny's Main Street and escaped with a number of boxes of what they thought contained thousands of euros worth of items

Two men who robbed two Co Donegal jewellery shops were left stunned after discovering they escaped with nothing more than dozens of empty boxes.

The men tried to steal a large consignment of watches from McCullagh Jewellers in Letterkenny on January 17 last.

The pair entered the shop on Letterkenny's Main Street and escaped with a number of boxes of what they thought contained thousands of euros worth of items.

However, the men had mistakenly taken the wrong boxes all of which were completely empty.

The pair, both Russian nationals, were later arrested after being captured on CCTV and identified by gardai.

They appeared at Letterkenny District Court where they were both charged with a number of theft offences.

Andrejs Hincenbergs and Dmitrijs Antosevskis are both charged that on January 17th at McCullagh's Jewellers on Main Street in Letterkenny on January 17th, 2024 , did steal property to wit 20 cardboard watch boxes to the value of 50, the property of McCullagh's Jewellers.

Both men are also charged that on the same date at McCullagh's Jewellers at Letterkenny Shopping Centre did steal property to wit leather watch boxes valued at 150, the property of McCullagh's Jewellers.

The accused, both with addresses at Cluain Ard, Letterkenny, are also charged that on January 18th at Costcutters, Killylastin, Letterkenny, did steal groceries to the value of 28.50.

The mens' solicitor, Mr Patsy Gallagher, said the men both admitted the offences and apologised to the court.

He said both had now planned to leave the country and return to Russia.

Judge Ciaran Liddy said this was an opportunist crime which could have been a lot more serious if the boxes had contained watches.

He sentenced both men to six months in prison but suspended the sentences in full for a period of six months.

If the men come before the court again during that time their six month sentence will be activated.
Sgt Twomey said Nepali was entering houses looking to find an intoxicated female to rape, but that the first four houses he entered all had male occupants.

A predator who broke into four properties to find an intoxicated female to rape, before breaking into a house and raping a woman as she slept, does not accept that he assaulted the victim.

Kamal Kumar Nepali (24), of Beech Park, Ballincollig, Co Cork, appeared before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath in the Central Criminal Court on Monday.

He was found guilty by a jury of one count of rape, one count of burglary, one count of assault causing harm, one count of sexual assault and four counts of trespass in Cork on March 1, 2022 following a trial. He had denied the charges.

Sergeant John Paul Twomey told Ray Boland SC, prosecuting, that this was a calculated attack on a female while she slept and that the actions of Mr Nepali were that of a predator.

The court heard the victim had been socialising with housemates at a nearby pub on the night of February 28, 2022. At around 2am, she left the pub and walked home.

She got home, changed into pyjamas and went to sleep. She woke up at 7am to find Nepali in her room with his arms across her body.

Nepali had broken into her house and raped her as she slept, causing injury to her body. The woman said she was a heavy sleeper, and the alcohol she had drunk earlier that evening meant she slept heavier than usual.

Nepali said he'd been there three weeks earlier, which the woman said was not true. She asked him to leave.

After he left, he requested to follow her on Instagram. The woman saw he had accessed her phone without her knowledge and followed his own account as she slept.

The woman was in a state of panic and realized her leg was sore and that there was bruising on her chest, legs, crotch and thigh.

One of the woman's housemates said Nepali had entered the house at 5:30am, and that she had asked him to leave or she would call the gardai. She thought he had left because she saw a motion sensor outside activate.

Nepali had attempted to enter different houses earlier that night, the court heard.

Sgt Twomey said Nepali was entering houses looking to find an intoxicated female to rape, but that the first four houses he entered all had male occupants.

Gardai were informed the day of the assault and the victim attended a sexual assault unit.

Nepali was arrested and interviewed on March 22, 2022. Sergeant Twomey said: Throughout his detention, his version (of what happened) changed with major discrepancies.

Nepali was unanimously convicted on December 7, 2023 on all counts on the indictment.

In a victim impact statement handed in to the court and read on her behalf, the woman said: I will never forget coming home to my parents and watching my dad cry.

I had love bites all over my neck and bruises on my lower body. I covered myself in scarves and turtlenecked jumpers until these cleared. Not only did I not want to see these, I wanted to protect my family and friends from this too.

The confusion, fear and upset from that morning will never leave me. I couldn't make sense of the situation nor comprehend how my life was about to change, she wrote, I became a shell of a person I once was, unable to speak or process the events that occurred.

I wouldn't wish this on anyone and I will continue to carry this for the rest of my life, she ended her statement.

John B Peart SC, defending, said his client has never been in trouble before and that this evening seems to have been completely contrary to his character and life until then.

He said his client does not accept that he raped the woman. He's still a young man. He has the rest of his life to go before him.

Nepali has no previous convictions.

Mr Justice MacGrath adjourned the matter until March 11 for finalisation.
CAB also alleged Mr Sweeney had associations with other known criminals in Ireland and abroad

Two companies at the centre of former socialite Marcus Sweeneys battle with the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) have been listed for strike off by the Companies Registration Office.

Evergreen Wealth Management (EWM) Property Holdings Ltd was formally placed on the strike off list on January 10, while Evergreen Wealth Management Ltd  formerly Smart Shark Investments Ltd  was listed for strike off on November 21.

Sweeney and Evergreen had 56 days from the dates of being listed for strike off before the companies are officially dissolved and their remaining assets forfeited to the State.

In March 2023, Sweeney, who was described by a High Court judge as being up to his oxters in organised crime, and EWM agreed to hand over lands in Co Meath as settlement in a case brought against him by CAB.

The court was told EWM was consenting to an order, under the Proceeds of Crime Act, for the Bureaus receiver to take possession of the site.

The ten-acre site, which was bought by EWM for 102,000 was subsequently auctioned off by CAB with a guide price of 150,000.

CAB alleged EWM purchased the land using, in part, cash from unknown sources, another investment company and from an innocent investor.

Mr Justice Alexander Owens said the firm appeared to be involved in what he described as a highly dubious investment scheme.

Money given by investors was used for a different purpose, meaning the property was purchased with the proceeds of crime, he said.

CAB alleged that Sweeney was the director and founder of EWM and Evergreen Wealth Management Limited, the latter of which accepted 721,000 worth of cash lodgements from unknown sources between 2014 and 2020.

The court heard claims that a convicted heroin dealer, who cannot be named as he is before the courts on serious charges, invested in Evergreen in 2015 through his car company. He was not a part of CABs proceedings against EWM.

The Bureau also alleged Mr Sweeney had associations with other known criminals in Ireland and abroad.

CAB alleged Sweeney had been seen by gardai at a meeting in Dublin in the company of two men who were later arrested in possession of nearly 1m worth of heroin.

UK drug dealer Kuldip Singh and Turkish heroin smuggler Ali Adnan Duran were arrested following the meeting after gardai raided their B&B room in Saggart.

Sweeney was also arrested but was later released without charge.

The former socialite subsequently denied knowing that the pair were involved in the heroin trade and said that the idea scared the s**t out of me.

In an interview with the Sunday Independent given after Judge Owens ruling, he also denied acting as a go-between who helped criminals with money laundering.

Speaking about his relationship with the convicted heroin dealer who invested in EWM, Sweeney said the gang leader believed in me and supported me when he set up Evergreen Wealth Management Limited.
Beauty company used by drug dealer to wash dirty cash is listed for strike off after CABs probe

John Coone and his wife Pamela had no legitimate income

John Coone and his wife Pamela had no legitimate income

The beauty firm run by drug dealer John Coones wife has been listed for strike off after huge sums of criminal cash were used to set it up.

Pamela Coones Riverview Aesthetics, which offers lip fillers and Botox treatments, was described as money laundering vehicle in a Criminal Assets Bureau case this week.

While 220,000 went through the accounts controlled by Pamela Coone, the salons appointment book was mostly empty.

John Coone and his wife Pamela had no legitimate income

In fact, she had a registered income of just 2,000 from one year of the companys operation and even expanded the firm with a second premises after CAB had carried out searches in 2020.

The unexplained sums of money used to fit out the commercial unit in Bandon, Co Cork and to buy equipment were cited in the court case this week, which the Coones did not contest.

Riverview Aesthetics was listed for strike off 10 days ago, according to company records.

Social media accounts associated with the business appear to be still active but calls to the advertised number went unanswered.

Coones former house

The Sunday World previously revealed how it was the Coones lifestyle that first alerted gardai, who suspected that John Coone had graduated from street dealer to a major drugs boss in the south west in just a few years.

The couple continued to flash the cash despite the attention of CAB and being at the centre of one of the biggest raids in rural Ireland in recent criminal history.

In February 2020, 120 gardai searched 21 premises.

They first searched 11 residential dwellings, including the rental property in west Cork where the Coones lived.

Four business premises and a garage were searched, as were offices of solicitors and accountants.

A hotel, where a man gardai suspected of selling cocaine regularly stays, was also subject to a search.

But just 18 months later Pamela announced that she was pumping more assets into the business, building her brand and opening a second premises.

She wrote on the firms website: Riverview Aesthetics are excited to share our wonderful news. We are expanding. We will now be offering our extensive range of aesthetics and laser services in Cork.

Pamela and John Coone pictured outside Riverview Aesthetics

CAB said John Coone was using the business and a car dealership, which were funded and set up by him, to launder his money.

Despite legitimate income of 15,000 over 15 years the couple were able to enjoy extensive trips to Malaga, Tenerife, Malta and Lapland.

The couple also embarked on a luxury six-week trip to Santorini in Greece during the coronavirus pandemic.

The pairs lifestyle and spending were part of the case by CAB, which also looked into Coones mother Eileen and brother Kieran.

As well as luxury holidays, it emerged that Coone blew thousands on gambling  losing 30,000 on a BoyleSports account, and lodging 68,000 with Paddy Power.

Described in evidence as a career criminal involved in drug dealing, Coone has 47 criminal convictions, including for the sale and supply of drugs.

In an affidavit, CAB chief Michael Gubbins asserted that Coone had been given custodial sentences 18 times and had been found close to the action of drug dealing activities on a number of occasions.

This included once being stopped in a car being used to smuggle 140,000 worth of heroin.

The case focused on seized cash, several bank accounts, a Land Rover, a Kia Sportage, a VW Passat, a Skoda Superb and several Louis Vuitton bags.

Counsel for CAB told the court that the case against Coone boils down to there is little in the way of legitimate income.

During raids carried out in February 2021 evidence was found of a property purchase in Bulgaria which CAB said is indicative of Coones wealth.

Coone and wife Pamela

Judge Alex Owens said the evidence shows John Coone had access to substantial income streams over a number of years. He said the obvious source of the money flowing into his wife and mothers bank accounts was his drug dealing and that he has been a significant drug-dealer.

The couple lived an exotic lifestyle with no known source to fund it and enjoyed a life of luxury.

Judge Owens said he had little option other than to rule the assets as being derived from crime and accept the evidence from the bureaus Chief Officer.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 22. President of Tajikstan Emomali Rahmon highlighted a broad spectrum of collaboration opportunities between Tajikistan and Qatari companies, Trend reports.

According to the press service of the Tajik president, Rahmon made these remarks during his opening speech at the Tajikistan-Qatar Entrepreneurship Forum, held in Qatar and attended by Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Qassim Al-Thani.

Rahmon identified potential areas of collaboration, which include agriculture, transportation infrastructure, establishment of logistics centers, civil aviation, and tourismparticularly in mountainous, ecological, and health sectors. He emphasized that the Tajikistan government is ready to carefully explore and support proposals from Qatari investors to foster fruitful cooperation in these priority areas.

During his address, Rahmon noted that the goal of the meeting is to provide a more qualitative presentation of the real possibilities for trade, economic, and investment cooperation between the two countries. Attracting investments across various sectors of the economy and promoting entrepreneurial development were identified as key priorities in the economic policy of Tajikistan.

In conclusion, entrepreneurs, investors, and companies from Qatar were invited to visit Tajikistan to gain a closer understanding of collaboration opportunities in various mutually beneficial areas.

Rahmon's state visit to Qatar, where he arrived on January 21, is currently ongoing.
I am not even thinking about him, hes gone and he isnt in my thoughts, thats it.

'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 her 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.
A PSNI spokesperson asked the public to avoid the Castle Lane area in Belfast city centre.

Watch: Member of the public hit with debris as storm Isha hits NI

A woman has been struck by falling debris in Belfast city centre as high winds from Storm Isha wreak havoc.

A PSNI spokesperson asked the public to avoid the Castle Lane area in Belfast city centre.

Officers have closed Castle Lane at its junction with Royal Avenue. A member of the public has been struck by falling debris and is being treated at the scene by emergency services in attendance, a spokesperson added.

It comes as an amber weather warning for wind came into effect across Northern Ireland from 6pm today.

Meanwhile, in the Republic of Ireland, Met Eireann issued a Status Orange weather warning early on Sunday for most of the country, including Dublin, meaning the winds could significantly impact people, property and activity in an area.

Storm Isha is lashing Ireland with high winds, with counties Galway and Mayo under a Status Red warning between 5pm and 9pm, while Donegal will be under a red warning from 9pm and will end at 1am on Monday morning.

An Orange Wind Warning is also simultaneously in effect for Donegal, Galway and Mayo from 4pm on Sunday until 3am on Monday morning.

A Status Orange warning for the rest of the country came into effect at 4pm and will last until 2am on Monday morning. Potential impacts include large coastal waves with wave overtopping, very difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and damage to power lines.

According to recent Met Eireann reports, the highest gust of 130km/h was recorded at Mace Head in Co Galway with Claremorris in Mayo being battered by winds gusting up to 126km/h and Valentia in Kerry seeing 115km/h gusts.
The woman, aged in her twenties, suffered fatal injuries when the van crashed at Carnalogue in Co.Louth at approximately 1.50am

A young woman who was a passenger in a van was killed after the vehicle in which she was travelling in struck a tree in the early hours of the morning.

The woman, aged in her twenties, suffered fatal injuries when the van crashed at Carnalogue in Co.Louth at approximately 1.50am.

Emergency services attended the scene and she was pronounced deceased.

A second person in the van, a man in his twenties, was rushed to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening.

No other injuries were reported.

The womans body remains at the scene this morning and a technical examination will be carried out by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators later today. Local diversions are currently in place.

Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area at the time, are asked to make this footage available to Gardai.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ardee Garda Station on 041 685 3222, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Last night, a man died after the car he was driving hit flood waters and skidded off the road during Storm Isha in Claremorris, Co Mayo.

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 6.30pm.

The N17, which is the national primary route between Galway City and Sligo, was closed as gardai carried out a forensic collision investigation.

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.
Mr Bailey was found guilty by French justice but never went to prison because of the Irish justice system

The family of Sophie Toscan du Plantier say they will never get truth and justice for her murder following the sudden death of main suspect Ian Bailey.

Ms du Plantiers brother, Bertrand Bouniol, said it is the fault of Ireland because Mr Bailey was convicted of murder by a Paris court in 2019 but never had to face the sentence.

Mr Bailey was tried in absentia for the murder of the mother of one in Schull, west Cork in 1996. He had refused to attend the Paris proceedings, which he rejected as a show trial and a mockery of justice.

Last night Mr Bouniol told the Irish Independent: Mr Bailey was found guilty by French justice but never went to prison because of the Irish justice system.

For us this is a mistake. It is also the fault of Europe, the EU, which was unable to harmonise its justice system.

But it is mainly the fault of Ireland, which never came to the end of this crime, despite a large number of investigations, and a lack of will and courage on the part of Irish justice.

My sister was brutally murdered and her murderer was able to continue a normal life.

Ms du Plantiers uncle, Jean-Pierre Gazeau, said: Ian Bailey has passed away. May he rest in peace.

For Sophies 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.

Mr Bailey (66) fell ill and collapsed while walking on Barrack Street in Bantry at lunchtime yesterday.

He was treated on the street by a number of pedestrians, one of whom performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on him until an ambulance arrived. Paramedics worked to revive him at the scene. However, he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Last year, he told the Irish Independent he was hoping his cardiac health would improve sufficiently to allow him to undergo bypass surgery, which he required following a series of heart attacks.

He also said his hope and prayer was to live long enough to see the person responsible for the brutal killing of Ms du Plantier (39) finally brought to justice.

Asked about the implications for the cold-case reinvestigation, the gardai said: The garda investigation into the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier in 1996 remains active and ongoing. An Garda Siochana has no further comment at this time.

Ms du Plantiers parents are due to be briefed about Mr Baileys death today. Her father Georges (97) is currently in hospital. His wife Marguerite is 93.
It may be a matter of weeks since Christmas, but the volunteers at Tauranga Repair Cafe are expecting to be busy fixing broken toys along with the usual household items very soon.

The monthly event aimed at reducing unnecessary rubbish in the landfill is launching for 2024 on the morning of January 27  and will be open at Tinkd Makerspace.

Volunteer Ian Neal specialises in woodwork but says there are experts in most fields to assess and then attempt to fix items that locals bring along.

He joined the repair team last year  which is part of a global movement to repair, recycle and minimise waste.

What to do

I had two coffee machines that leaked, says Ian.

When the first one broke, I decided to go out and buy another to replace it because it made such great coffee and that started leaking as well.

I brought them to the cafe.

'A volunteer fixed the first, showed me what to do and I fixed the second one at home.

"So, my coffee makers are not in the landfill and I started coming along as a volunteer.

Volunteer Matt Smith is a mechanical engineer.

Theres definitely a feeling of satisfaction and often its a surprise because you dont know whats broken about it and you have a short amount of time to fix it.

"It feels good to diagnose the problem, get it fixed and then have the person able to take home their item now working again.

Matt says education is also an important part of the cafe.

Sometimes people just need to know about maintaining something.

They need to know that this a part thats going to wear out, so they may be able to go online and just buy a part and their appliance will keep going for years and years, says Matt.

A kids toy car, for example, might be need a simple fuse connection.

If someone hadnt known how to fix it, it wouldve been a huge chunk of plastic in the landfill.

We try to prevent that from happening and give things a new life.

NZ-wide movement

Co-founder of the national organisation Repair Cafe Aotearoa, Brigitte Sistig, is impressed with the success of Tauranga locals.

The Tauranga Repair Cafe is part of a New Zealand-wide movement that contributes to the reduction of waste, educates about product design and repairability, and builds community resilience, says Brigitte.

This is only possible through the dedication of our skilled volunteers who share their expertise and help their communities to extend the lifespan of their belongings.

The Repair Cafe will be open 9.30-11.30am on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Tinkd Makerspace, 148 Durham St, Tauranga To book a repair, go to: https://tinkd.nz/repair-cafe-tauranga/
Police are reminding people to do their research before heading out for any shoreline or wilderness walks, following a rescue along the east coast.

Shortly before 11am on Thursday, a group of overseas tourists became trapped between the tide and steep cliffs while walking the foreshore to the Gannet Colony, near the end of Cape Kidnappers.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand, and Coastguard New Zealand kicked into action with a swift response.

"Thankfully, as the group realised they were trapped, they stopped at one of the few places along the coastline where they managed to keep away from the rising tide," says an Eastern District Police spokesperson.

"Surf Lifesavings Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) was able to get in close enough to the group to extract them from the shore, passing them on to Coastguard who were able to complete the rescue and take the group back to safety."

Police say that they, Surf Lifesaving and Coastguard have conducted past exercises in this area for this scenario, which has lead to this successful response and recovery.

"Thankfully, nobody was injured, however, if the circumstances were different, the outcome could have been tragic."

There are warning signs at the beach around Clifton and at the beginning of the walk, advising walkers to check tide times, walking times and fitness levels required before attempting to walk the Gannet Colony.

"This is a timely reminder for people to do their research before heading out for any shoreline or wilderness walks, and to take into account all warning signs along the way," says a police spokesperson.

"We would also like to again commend the response by Surf Lifesaving and Coastguard volunteers, with a professional response leading to a successful recovery."
About 17,000 kiwifruit roles need filling in Western Bay of Plenty and two February hiring days are planned to match job seekers with employers.

Ministry of Social Development has joined forces with seasonal employers to promote work opportunities.

About 18,000 seasonal vacancies need to be filled across the Bay of Plenty region ahead of the 2024 kiwifruit harvest, NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated says.

Job seekers keen to see what jobs are on offer can head to the Te Puke War Memorial Hall, 130 Jellicoe Street, Te Puke on Monday, February 12, or the Patuki Manawa Digital Hub, 21 Main Road, Katikati on Thursday, February 15.

Both events run from 10am to 12.30pm.

A mix of harvest and packhouse roles will be available and attendees will have the opportunity to talk to employers about what jobs may suit them.

Its about bringing the two together and allowing conversations to happen, says MSDs Regional Commissioner for Bay or Plenty Jacob Davies.

Not all seasonal jobs involve picking, packing, or stacking. There are many options from forklift to administration so if someone isnt able to do physical work, there may be other roles that suit.

Anyone curious about working in the kiwifruit industry can put on a headset and see what its like to work on a kiwifruit orchard through virtual reality.

Seasonal work can be an opportunity for people seeking to get back into the workforce and can be a stepping stone to other types of work, including full time employment.

The Ministry has a range of support to help job seekers move into employment, and will assist both job seekers and employers with the recruitment process.

The expo is free so pop down and check it out.
Javier F. Barrera Granada Monday, 22 January 2024, 16:45 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The Danmark, a naval training ship belonging to the Danish Maritime Authority, made an elegant appearance in the bay of La Herradura on Saturday.

The three-masted ship took locals and visitors to La Herradura by surprise, creating a beautiful image set against the backdrop of Cerro Gordo cliffs.

The Danmark is an old acquaintance of Spanish ports. Being a full-rigged training ship, like the Juan Sebastian Elcano of the Spanish Navy, it regularly tours the Mediterranean and often opens up to the general public when it is in port.

In the last twelve months it has been in the ports of La Coruna and Cartagena, where visitors were able to go on board to see this training ship that is in good condition despite its almost a century of history. On this occasion it had sailed to La Herradura from Porto Grande, Cape Verde.

Danish residents in La Herradura and the surrounding area in particular were pleasantly surprised to see such an iconic ship of their country anchored in the bay.

On Sunday crew members could be seen carrying out rowing exercises alongside the ship.

An old acquaintance of the seas

The Danmark was completed in 1932 and launched in 1933. At its 90 years of age, it is one of the oldest naval training ships still sailing today and even a veteran of World War II, having served with the US Coast Guard after Nazi Germany invaded Denmark.

The ship is 65 metres long and almost ten metres wide with a depth of 5.2 metres. It weighs 790 tonnes and its fitted with a diesel 486 HP engine capable of reaching nine knots.

According to information on the site Foronaval, "During its first decade of life, the brand new Danmark made six training cruises, and was in New York with the Norwegian training ship Christian Radich when the second world war broke out and Denmark was invaded by Hitler's troops. The Danish government ordered the ship not to return to Europe, and later, with the entry of the US into the war, in 1941, it was put at the disposal of the Americans, who immediately assigned it to the training of US Coast Guard cadets and sailors (the USCG), training some 5,000 future naval officers until almost the end of the conflict, when the ship was returned to Denmark.

"The Danmark has continued in its role as a training ship for Danish seafarers from 1946 to the present day, regularly conducting two naval training voyages of five months' duration each.

"In winter it usually sails around the Mediterranean (visiting for example Cartagena and Algeciras, and now La Herradura) and the Canary Islands, then in summer it calls at Plymouth before crossing the Atlantic, reaching the east coast of the United States and the Virgin Islands before returning to its base at Frederickshaven, where the training ship undergoes two months of maintenance before sailing again."
Alekk M. Saanders Monday, 22 January 2024, 14:20 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The Pastel Ruso ('Russian Cake' in English) in an exclusive Spanish dessert with a history. Despite the name, the pastry is not of Russian origin, but was created for Andaluia-born Eugenie de Montijo, the wife of Napoleon III and Empress of the French.

A surprise for the Tsar

In was at the time of the 1867 Paris Exposition that Eugenie de Montijo came up with the idea of preparing a special cake to surprise the Russian Tsar. According to the legend, the Empress organised a banquet for Tsar Alexander II and commissioned Spanish chefs to prepare a special cake for dessert. They ended up creating a cake made of ground hazelnuts and almonds with a praline butter filling.

Ascaso cake shop in Madrid. A. Saanders

Alexander II was so impressed with the flavour of this dessert that he asked for more and more, which led to it becoming known as the Pastel Ruso. Apparently, the Tsar even asked for the recipe, but the Spanish cake did not gain such popularity in Russia. The Pastel Ruso also fell into oblivion in France.

The sweet rebirth

It was in 1974 that the cake was revived in Spain thanks to Vicente Ascaso Martinez, third generation of the Ascaso confectionery firm, founded in Huesca (Aragon) in 1890. Fifty years ago, Vicente decided to get his hands on the original Pastel Ruso recipe. He travelled to the south of France and read numerous culinary books, eventually creating his own master recipe.

"In 1974, after much research, Pasteleria Ascaso introduced a new cake among our creations. Over these decades, the Pastel Ruso has become our most popular speciality. It is made of hazelnuts, almonds, egg white, praline foam and Ascaso's secret touch," Vicente Ascaso Martinez told SUR in English.

Pastel Ruso has become an iconic Spanish dessert, alongside Ponche Segoviano and Tarta de Santiago. Word of mouth has led Ascaso's Russian cake to be considered one of the most exquisite Spanish desserts, albeit less known in other parts of the country.

Vicente Ascaso Martinez said that some confectioners have copied his recipe. Nevertheless, some versions are a sponge cake filled with merengue, which is very different from the original version that contains no flour at all (so is suitable for coeliacs). Unsurprisingly, for the authentic taste, gourmets always go to the Ascaso bakeries located in Huesca, Zaragoza and Madrid. The exclusive dessert is also sold at El Corte Ingles.

Ascaso and its Pastel Ruso is an excellent example of how a superior product can be a great business breakthrough

The Pastel Ruso can be ordered from Ascaso's website and delivered to any corner of Spain. Incidentally, though the dessert is totally preservative-free, it stores well, allowing it to 'travel' far, and this is also the secret of its success. At a temperature between 0 and 6 the shelf life is two months. The dessert has been awarded the "C" C'Alial for Food Quality by the Government of Aragon. Ascaso and its Pastel Ruso is an excellent example of how a superior product can be a great business breakthrough.
Irene Quirante Malaga Monday, 22 January 2024, 17:47 Compartir Copiar enlace

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Four men have been arrested in Cartama, as the alleged perpetrators of three attempts to kidnap the same individual, from whom they were allegedly demanding large sums of money for a debt.

The first time the gang tried to capture the man was last June when they tried to force him into a vehicle after surprising him in the car park of a restaurant in Alhaurin de la Torre. But the victim resisted and struggled until he was able to get away from them and flee.

Months later, in September, the suspects tried again. Once again, they planned to spring a trap in a car park, this time in an underground facility in Malaga city. The date and place corresponded to an attempted kidnapping reported by SUR, which took place in broad daylight on 20 September in Calle Jamaica. On that occasion, according to witnesses, at least two individuals with their faces hidden by balaclavas tried to forcefully take away a third man, who they allegedly tried to drag into a car.

However, Guardia Civil officers - taking part in Operation Paquitia - arrested the four suspects a few weeks ago, when they were leaving a rural house in Cartama armed with guns and materials to carry out the third kidnapping attempt. In addition to the weapons, the gang had extendable batons and a spray to knock out the victim, as well as ties, masks and sunglasses. In addition, they allegedly placed false number plates on the minivan they were going to use in the kidnapping.

Following investigations, the alleged perpetrators were identified and located. All had a long criminal record and had been in prison. None of them had a fixed residence, and moved between Malaga and Granada.

The Guardia Civil arrested the suspects as alleged perpetrators of three attempted crimes of kidnapping, membership of a criminal organisation, illegal possession of weapons, injuries, damage, falsification of documents and theft, as well as for a warrant that one of them had in force. The detainees were handed over to the judicial authorities, who ordered the imprisonment of three of them. The gang ringleader had a warrant in force for not returning to prison after jail leave.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, January 22. Tajikistan and Qatar explored initiatives to enhance logistic networks between the two countries, aiming to facilitate cargo and passenger transportation as well as transit, Trend reports.

The discussions unfolded during a meeting between Tajikistan's President, Emomali Rahmon, and Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha, within the frame of Rahmon's state visit to Qatar.

Rahmon stressed the significance of developing new avenues for bilateral collaboration that are in the interests of both parties. These mechanisms include a specialized joint working committee to investigate and identify priority areas for collaboration between the two nations, as well as the formation of a Qatar-Tajikistan joint economic and investment fund.

The meeting emphasized the importance of joint efforts in promoting mutually beneficial development, particularly in the trade and economic sectors.

Considering Tajikistan's significant investment prospects, soliciting capital for projects in energy, light industry, food production, mining, pharmaceuticals, transportation, agriculture, and tourism was deemed critical.

Collaboration in education, science, and culture was highlighted as a key element in strengthening humanitarian ties between the two countries. The Tajik president also expressed keen interest in continuing close cooperation with Qatar to ensure security.
Jesus Hinojosa Malaga Monday, 22 January 2024, 16:10 Compartir Copiar enlace

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The Junta de Andalucia's regional ministry of the Environment said around 350 fish died on Saturday after being trapped in a pool of water at the mouth of the River Guadalhorce in Malaga with thousands of other specimens being unable to reach the sea. It is believed this may have been caused by the reduction in the river's flow caused by the drought, and by the increase, due to tidal factors, in the amount of sand at the rivers mouth.

The Junta said that "it continues to work at the mouth of the Guadalhorce to improve the wetlands in order to guarantee a channel to the sea and therefore help to prevent the death of more fish in this area".

On Saturday morning a resident of Puerta Blanca, who is a regular visitor to the area, borrowed a shovel from a building site after seeing the floundering fish and opened a channel to connect a pool, in which thousands of fish had been trapped, with the sea, saving hundreds of the aquatic animals.And Debbe

The same afternoon, the Junta's department of the Environment used one of the excavators it has in the area to remove the sand that had blocked the rivers outlet to the Sacaba beach area.

The emergency channel opened by the Junta de Andalucia on Saturday afternoon. SUR

The Junta said results from diagnostic tests will determine the exact cause of the deaths. The regional government said that it considers that the lack of oxygen caused by the accumulation of sediment due to the tides of recent days, coupled with the drop in water level of the river, could have caused a pool that left the fish without oxygen, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of specimens. However, other causes have not been ruled out and we will have to wait for the laboratory results".
Lorena Cadiz Fuengirola Monday, 22 January 2024 | Updated 24/01/2024 10:38h. Compartir Copiar enlace

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The remodelling works of the popular Bikini Beach bar, located on Playa del Castillo in Fuengirola, have caught the attention of the Malaga branch of Ecologists in Action, which has reported a non-compliance of the law to the Junta de Andalucia regional government and the coastal authority.

The environmental organisation claims that the bar, which is located a few metres from the protection zone of the archaeological environment of Fuengirola Castle, will have a concrete basement and a total permanent constructed area of 440 square metres over two levels. The group pointed out that current laws specify that planned food and drink establishments on urban stretches of the beaches may have facilities with a maximum of, except in exceptional cases, 200 square metres on a single floor.

According to the complaint presented by the environmentalists, These laws are being breached on many beaches in Malaga and it is especially serious on beaches like Fuengirola, which is already over-crowded.

Ecologistas en Accion accused the regional government of abusing its powers in the management of the beaches. It has also requested that the coastal authorities establish more robust measures", such as the obligation that all regional projects on the coastline must be supervised by the state.

The regional government responded to the complaint by saying that the work on the Bikini Beach bar has the full authorisation from the regional administration for the construction of a basement. Sources from the regional authority pointed out that environmental agents have already visited the work to check if what is being carried out complies with the law. Once the authorities receive the full report, it will be verified whether the complaint is justified or not. The Junta de Andalucia said it will always guarantee compliance with current legislation and the authorisations granted.
Fuengirola hosts world-wide event to raise funds for hospitals in Poland The Costa del Sol town, which is home to approximately 2,000 Polish residents, and Madrid are the only two places in Spain where this charity event is staged

Tony Bryant Fuengirola Monday, 22 January 2024, 10:57 Compartir Copiar enlace

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Fuengirola will host the Fiesta Gran Orquesta Solidaria de Navidad de Polonia in the Cepyme caseta on the fairground on Sunday 28 January. The charity Christmas party is organised to raise funds for medical supplies for hospitals in Poland, and it is one of many events that are organised by Polish communities around the world on this day.

The event begins at 2pm and will include concerts by violinist Alicia Starega, and the Granada group The Replicants, who perform the music of Tina Turner, a charity auction, childrens activities, a book and toy market, along with tastings of typical Polish cuisine.

The event was announced by local councillor Cristina Bornao, and the representative of the Polish association, Janina Ferlin.

Today we present a great event promoted by people of Polish nationality who reside in our municipality and who have been organising this initiative for six years. We always provide support to the groups and social entities of our municipality, and, in this case, our support consists of promoting this event, Bornao said.

We are very happy to participate in this important world-wide initiative, which last year, raised more than 60 million euros to buy essential equipment for our hospitals, Ferlin added.

Fuengirola, which has approximately 2,000 Polish residents, and Madrid are the only two places in Spain where this event is celebrated.
Europa Press Marbella Monday, 22 January 2024, 18:15 | Updated 18:25h. Compartir Copiar enlace

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A search to try to locate the two young men who disappeared at sea off the Costa del Sol, after reporting an engine problem on their boat last Tuesday evening, has continued today (Monday 22 January).

Specifically, Spain's Salvamento Maritimo told Europa Press that today the Salvamar Alnitak was mobilised, which searched the area around Fuengirola. Likewise, radio alerts to other vessels in the area continue to be issued, said the maritime rescue service.

The two young men, aged 26 and 31, called for help last Tuesday when they were sailing in the Cabopino area due to an engine failure on their boat in which they had gone fishing.

The alert was raised at 8.23pm from someone on shore who called for help after speaking with them, although the young men could not be contacted again by the rescue services.

At that moment, work immediately began to try to locate the 6.5 metre fibreglass boat in which the two young men were sailing. The search began in the surrounding area and Marbella and Estepona ports, and later extended to other areas.

Coordinated by the Salvamento Maritimo rescue centre (CCS) in Tarifa, since then an air and sea search operation has been carried out in which the service's own resources have been mobilised, such as the rescue vessels Gadir, Alnitak and Hamal, and the helicopters Helimer 223 and Helimer 207. The Guardia Civil has also been involved in the search with boats and a helicopter, as well as a Frontex European border force aircraft.
M. L. Monday, 22 January 2024, 15:17 Compartir Copiar enlace

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Today, Monday 22 January, Spain's Audiencia Nacional court will try a young British man who the Public Prosecutor's Office accuses of a crime of public disorder because in July 2022 he sent a message on his social media of a fake bomb threat on a plane he was flying on, which was travelling from London to Menorca.

In the indictment, reported by Europa Press, the Public Prosecutor's Office does not request a prison sentence for him but a fine of 22,500 euros. To this figure it adds a compensation of almost 95,000 euros for the Ministry of Defence for the expenses derived from the deployment of a fighter jet that escorted the flight until it landed.

A joke to his friends

According to the account of events presented by the Public Prosecutor's Office, on 3 July 2022, Aditya Verma, the accused, was at Gatwick airport (London) at the check-in desk to for a flight to Menorca when he sent a message via the Snapchat application to the group of friends he was flying with. It showed a photograph of him and at the bottom of the image the phrase 'On my way to blow up the plane (I'm a member of the Taliban)' .

As the Public Prosecutor's Office explained, this message was picked up by the UK security services when the plane was flying over French airspace, and they alerted the Spanish authorities. With this warning, and in view of the terror threat at the time, it was decided to deploy the fighter jet to escort the flight.

Eventually, the plane landed safely at Menorca airport and the Guardia Civil arrested the young man. Despite everything, the hoax alarm did not affect the operation or normal functioning of the airport, although it was decided to park the aircraft in an area of the apron away from the terminal and other planes.

Verma has repeatedly claimed during the trial that his message was sent in a private context and with a group of friends in which he was regularly joked with because of the colour of his skin, reported Europa Press.

"I didn't think at any time about scaring the people on that flight because the Snapchat group was private"

"I didn't think at any time about scaring the people on that flight because the Snapchat group was private and that message should not have reached anyone else," he explained after saying that he and his group of friends were on their way to the Balearic Islands to party after finishing a stressful period of exams.

The young man, when questioned by his defence, said that when he saw the fighter jet accompanying the flight he thought that it could be related to the war between Russia and Ukraine given that the conflict had started shortly before. He recalled that the captain of the flight explained to the passengers of the easyJet flight that "he had made a communication error and had sent a signal by mistake but that it was being fixed and that the fighters would stop following them".

"I thought it was something to do with the conflict," he explained, denying that it had ever crossed his mind that it had anything to do with his joke.

The Guardia Civil said that when they analysed the young man's device, although they found WhatsApp conversations in which an interest was shown in the clashes between Pakistan and India and in the possibilities of an Islamic State attack in that area, they did not observe anything of interest that would link him to jihadist radicalism.

"There was no link with radicalism or any intention to plant a bomb or orchestrate it (...). It gave the impression that it was a prank", one of them said

"Pretending" to be a Taliban

The prosecutor pointed out that the defendant knew what he was doing and he was "pretending" to be a Taliban.

In its opinion, article 561 of Spain's Penal Code, which refers to false bomb threats, typified the young man's conduct, something with which the State Attorney's Office agreed, taking for granted that the capture of the message by the British security services allegedly via a wifi network was carried out legally and therefore implied "the necessary publicity which is part of the article of the Penal Code".

Defence calls for UK to pay fine

For its part, the defence lawyer indicated that the law in this respect requires the joke to be credible "and this was not the case". The defendant "had no intention of mobilising the emergency services, it was a private joke", he stressed.

The defence pointed out that the fine demanded of his client is disproportionate and that the cost should in any case be borne by the British Government "for violating the privacy" of the individual.
Jason Kelces season ended on Wild Card weekend when the Philadelphia Eagles were blown out 32-9 by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The loss not only ended Kelces season, it may have ended his career as the offensive lineman was reportedly considering retirement following the loss.

Although Jasons season ended last weekend, his brother Travis is playing at Highmark Stadium tonight against the Buffalo Bills. With the opportunity to see his brother play, Jason Kelce arrived with the rest of the Kelce family and Taylor Swift to watch tonights matchup.

Before heading into Highmark Stadium, however, Kelce made a brief stop at a Bills tailgate to take a bowling ball shot. In the video below, you can see Kelce take the shot and toss the bowling ball to the ground to the delight of the Bills Mafia. Kelce then gave high fives to Bills fans.

Jason Kelce will likely discuss his tailgating experience with the Bills Mafia on the next episode of New Heights.

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Talk about the Bills

Be sure to check out and subscribe to SHOUT! The Buffalo Football Podcast with beat writers Matt Parrino and Ryan Talbot. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to get weekly updates about Bills news in your inbox. Check out the links below.

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The Doobie Brothers are returning to Upstate New York in 2024.

The Doobies announced new tour dates Monday, including a Tuesday, Aug. 13, concert at the Broadview Stage at SPAC in Saratoga Springs. Steve Winwood will open the show at 7 p.m.
Syracuse has a new fancy space for parties, weddings and galas galore, located in the heart of downtown.

The Treasury is the newly renovated space at 101 S. Salina St. Built by the Onondaga County Savings Bank in 1897, the 10-story neoclassical building was one of Syracuses first steel-frame skyscrapers.

Later in the 1980s, the company rebranded as OnBank. M&T Bank acquired OnBank in 1998 and became the buildings owner, then listed it for sale in 2019.

From its beginning, the building featured an unusually ornate bank branch with a spectacular collection of sculptural details, columns and murals.

Developers reimagined the former lobby as Palladian Hall, an elegant two-floor event space. Peek inside Palladian Hall in the video below.

Located on the corner of South Salina and East Genesee streets, the structure is part of the Hanover Square Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its one of the Syracuse skylines most recognizable buildings.

The ceiling has a spectacular 1931 Renaissance-style mural of the constellations, inspired by a 15th-century astronomers map.

The lobby also features 10 murals by artist William Tefft Schwarz, depicting Syracuses early history. Schwarz painted the historic scenes in the arches around the lobbys ceiling.

One archway shows the first New York State Fair in 1841. Another shows the Great Council of the League of Five Nations. One shows Syracuses first Mayor Harvey Baldwin speaking to a crowd in 1848. Another shows Father Le Moynes discovery of Syracuses salt springs in 1654.

Palladian Hall features 10 mural painted by William Tefft Schwarz, showing key moments in Syracuse history. This arch shows the Great Council of the League of the Five Nations. Palladian Hall is part of The Treasury, the renovated building formerly known as the Onondaga County Savings Bank at 101 S. Salina St.Katrina Tulloch

Guests can also see an old bank vault door on the halls lower level.

One of the years first events in Palladian Hall will be the Syracuse Mayors Ball on Saturday, Feb. 3.

Mayor Ben Walshs annual gala starts with a VIP reception at 5 p.m. with general admission at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $175 per person or $300 per couple. The event will feature performances from The Blacklites and DJ Maestro.

We have booked several weddings, galas, corporate and nonprofit events so far, said Dawn Schmidt, Palladian Halls director of events and operations. Inquiries are coming in for 2026 and 2027 already.

To book an event at The Palladian, contact thepalladian@greystar.com.

Above Palladian Hall, The Treasury offers luxury apartments with rents ranging from $1,500 to $2,800. They include heat and access to a fitness center and roof deck.

The 10-story structure was built in an unusual V shape to ensure each office would have a window. Now, the building houses 119 apartments overlooking Salina Street, Hanover Square or Clinton Square. Tenants began moving in on Feb. 1, 2023.

Rick Moriarty contributed to this report.

Katrina Tulloch shoots videos and writes stories for Syracuse.com and This is CNY. Contact her anytime: Email  Instagram  X  Facebook  518-810-5022

Editors note: M&T Bank is a partner of This Is CNY.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 22. Turkmenistan will hold a number of events this year aimed at expanding cooperation with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Trend reports.

According to an official source, an international conference 'The role of neutral States in strengthening security and trust in the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe region' will be held in Ashgabat in the first half of this year, which is designed to reveal the important role of Turkmenistan's neutrality status in ensuring peace, security and sustainable development.

The forum will discuss the main directions of the 'Global Security Strategy' initiated by Ashgabat and the use of neutrality mechanisms in solving international crises through political and diplomatic means.

Furthermore, the OSCE Secretary General is expected to arrive in Turkmenistan in March to build ties, and in April  the Vice-President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the head of the Committee on Countering Terrorism at this Assembly.

At the same time, a regional meeting of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is also scheduled for May in Ashgabat.

Meanwhile, Turkmenistan is constantly strengthening its desire to develop mutually beneficial cooperation with international organizations, paying special attention to partnership with the OSCE.

This constant rapid course towards cooperation underlines Turkmenistan's readiness to participate in international efforts to ensure security, develop and strengthen international relations.

Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Young writers have a lot to say.

Lorraine Hansberry, the playwright and activist, wrote A Raisin in the Sun, widely considered amongst the greatest works of American drama, when she was 28. Scholars believe that William Shakespeare was only 25 when he wrote his first play Henry VI, Part One. And Shelagh Delaney, the British playwright, penned A Taste of Honey when she was just 19-years-old.

But at Syracuse Stage, during this years Young Playwrights Festival on April 30, audiences will have a chance to see work by artists even younger. In fact, these playwrights will not even have graduated from high school.

Now in its 25th year, the Young Playwrights Festival represents a unique opportunity for budding dramatists: The chance for their work  10 minute, four character plays  to be shown on a professional stage, performed by students from the Syracuse University Department of Drama. And this year, an even more exciting prospect awaits those picked as finalists in the competition: Their works will be published and sold in an anthology produced by Syracuse Stage.

In Their Own Words

For Alethea Shirilan-Howlett, the Playwrights Festival was a way to have her young voice heard, when others seemed not to be listening.

She submitted her first play for the festival, Peeling Oranges, under the guidance of her English teacher Matt Phillips, when she was a sophomore at Jamesville-Dewitt High school. Although that piece didnt make it past the first round, Phillips encouraged Shirilan-Howlett to continue writing, and sure enough, her play, Viewer Discretion Advised, was featured in the festival the very next year.

In it, a high school student desperately tries to tell the adults in his life that the pressure to succeedace the test, get into college, make something of himselfis becoming too much; that the kids are very much not alright. But his cries for help are stifled by bright sitcom lights, the cheery sarcasm of his family, and the incessant laugh track that plays over the characters corny punchlines.

For Shirilan-Howlett, the play was a way to deal with very real issues she and her peers were facing. The year she wrote Viewer Discretion Advised, a young person in the community had taken their own life, and she found the lack of response from administration distressing, especially as she and other students were in need of mental health support.

It kind of felt like asking for those things was just like talking to a wall, she said. And so I wrote this play that was kind of like a sitcom, where theres this one character thats crying out for help, and the other two characters, his mom and uncle, are telling him to just basically shut up while smiling.

Phillips could tell right away, after reading the piece, that Shirilan-Howlett had written something special: She really understood the transformative power of theatre and how it can change lives and raise awareness, he said.

Kate Laissle, director of education at Syracuse Stage and coordinator for the Young Playwrights Festival, remembers reading Viewer Discretion Advised and being impressed by its dramatic tautness, and with Shirilan-Howletts ability to make the breakneck turn from farce to surrealist drama in only 10 minutes. It felt like an overtightened piano wire, she said.

That feeling running beneath Viewer Discretion Advised, of a ubiquitous mood being pointed at in-between the lines, is representative of the kind of work found in the Young Playwrights Festival, Laissle said. Over the years, shes found that students are eerily good at expressing themselves through writing, and that their plays seemed tuned in to the world at large.

I think these plays give us a more nuanced and direct insight into what high school students are thinking, Laissle said. Every year there ends up being a kind of theme that the students have selected through the cultural zeitgeist. Sometimes its funny, like theyve been watching too much Black Mirror. Or sometimes its talking about the pressures of society, like with COVID: A sense of loneliness, or the excitement of getting back with people.

Phillips agreed that the work coming from the young playwrights is funny, insightful, and oftentimes staggeringly poignant, and added that the growth he sees from students that participate in the festival is particularly rewarding for him as a teacher: They gain a lot of confidence. And then for some of them, it really sticks and they want to keep doing it, he said.

10 Minutes, Endless Possibilities

Each season, Syracuse Stage receives hundreds of submissions for the Young Playwrights Festival. Applications for this years event are open until February 13. The rules are simple: Plays must not exceed 10 pages, and cannot feature more than four characters.

Because of the amount of submissions, any piece that doesnt meet these parameters is disqualified; however Laissle sees these limitations not merely as contest requirements, but as a challenge for young dramatists to write leanly, and from the gut. She wants students to think broadly about what a play is, and encourages them to experiment with monologues, slam-poetry and any other style that might represent their voice, and the voices of their peers.

After submissions have closed, Laissle and a team of readers  Syracuse Stage staff members, and theatre professionals  narrow the pool of plays down into quarter finalists. That group of plays is read again, and 16 semi-finalists are chosen for a workshop at Syracuse Stage, which is to be held on March 2. There, the plays are read aloud by actors, and playwrights are given feedback, which can be incorporated into a rewrite before the plays are resubmitted for final review.

Its a lovely, joyous time, Laissle said of the workshops. And its a really communal moment, having all of these people in a room reading fresh, new, exciting work.

Eight plays are then selected to be included in the festival, where they are directed and performed by students from the Syracuse University Department of Drama. The performance is open to the public, and often represents a students first time showcasing their own work in front of an audience. Its really an amazing night, Laissle said.

A Springboard for the Future

Shirilan-Howlett is currently in her last year at the Syracuse University Department of Drama, where her senior thesis, Pitsl: A Miracle Play, had its premiere last December. That show, which blends Jewish folklore, modern social commentary, time-traveling radio transmissions and a talking puppet into a two-act family drama, is a real achievement for Shirilan-Howlett, who will spend the next semester in London where she hopes to intern with a theatre company.

Coincidentally, Pitsl features a playwriting contest (though the winner doesnt get a chance to see their play performed at Syracuse Stage, but rather a lifetime supply of snake oil). No wonder, since for Shirilan-Howlett, the experience of Young Playwrights Festival was a solid foundation on which shes continued to build, as her work has been featured in and awarded by other festivals throughout the country.

I definitely learned that part of the revision process is to have people read it out loud, she said. Learning to hear when certain jokes land, or dont land, to hear what makes people kind of hold their breath.

Phillips wants teachers considering this years event for the first time to know that the team at Syracuse Stage has been nothing but supportive during his almost 15 years of working with the Young Playwrights Festival. He also encourages all students, even those not particularly dramatically inclined, to get involved; some of the best plays have been from kids that dont typically lean towards theater as a study or hobby, he said. And even if a student doesnt choose to pursue the arts after high school, Phillips has seen what a rewarding, and validating experience the festival can be: For the rest of their life, they can look back on that and say: I was a playwright.

For Laissle, the Young Playwrights Festival is of a piece with what she hopes to achieve with her time at Syracuse Stage: The mission of the education department is to bring high quality art to young people, and this also happens to be high quality art done by young people. They are writing their truth and it is an honor to be able to be a part of that, she said.

What Shirilan-Howett will do after she graduates is still up in the air, but one thing is for certain: She will continue to create, and carve out her own path using her own voice.

I want to make art, and that could be in a lot of different forms. That could be becoming an arts educator or it could be, you know, writing plays that are seen by people off-Broadway. Thats what Ive learned from being here. There are so many different ways that you can have a job in the arts. And your art can have an impact.
Syracuse, NY -- Upstate University Hospital is pausing its decades-old practice of suing patients for unpaid medical bills, the hospital confirmed to syracuse.com | The Post-Standard.

The Syracuse hospital hasnt sued anyone for medical debt in the first three weeks of 2024, court records show. By comparison, Upstate sued 73 people in the first three weeks of 2023 and ended up suing more than 1,500 times for the whole year.

The Syracuse hospital said the pause was in response to Gov. Kathy Hochuls recent proposal to ban such lawsuits against poor people. Hochul also wants to scrap a little-known rule that compels state hospitals to refer any long-overdue medical bills of $2,500 or more to the state Attorney Generals Office for legal action.

Upstate appreciates the governors recent response to the issue of medical debt and increasing financial assistant to patients, the hospital said in a statement Friday to syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. At present, Upstate has asked the Office of the Attorney General to suspend filing new medical debt related lawsuits.

Upstates move also comes weeks after a syracuse.com | The Post-Standard investigation showed that the state-run institution was the only hospital in town that still sued its patients over medical debt. Neither Crouse nor St. Josephs hospitals have sued over medical debt since 2020. Upstate has sued more than 1,500 people in that time.

An analysis by the Community Service Society of New York found that state-run hospitals in Syracuse, Brooklyn and on suburban Long Island were responsible for nearly 75% of medical debt lawsuits filed by hospitals statewide in 2022. Its a practice that preys upon poor people who cannot pay their bills and rarely collects enough to be effective. The states private hospitals have largely abandoned going to court over such debt.

Hochul has proposed banning such lawsuits by any hospital -- state-run or private -- against any patient who makes less than 400% of the poverty line. Thats $58,320 for a single person or $120,000 for a family of four.

But Hochuls proposal must be approved by the Legislature during this years budget process for the practice to stop for good.

In fact, the state-run Stony Brook hospital has kept going despite the governors proposal, with the AG suing 36 more patients Friday on the hospitals behalf, court records show.

State lawyers working for Upstate last filed lawsuits against three patients on Dec. 29, including one patient for $2,701, court records show.

Neither Hochuls proposal nor Upstates decision has any impact on lawsuits already filed by the AG. For now, ongoing lawsuits remain open and those sued can still have court judgments issued against them, making it harder to get a loan, find a place to live or get a new job.

But Upstate indicated it is prepared to take more action in the future.

Upstate will monitor the legislative process and will be prepared to implement policy changes that are adopted in the final state budget, the statement concluded.

Staff writer Douglass Dowty can be reached at ddowty@syracuse.com or (315) 470-6070.
This guest column was written by Joe Rossi, the Cannabis Practice Group Leader at Park Strategies. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of NY Cannabis Insider.

This week, we need to remember the words of an extraordinary New Yorker who said Power concedes nothing without demand. It never did and it never will.

This week, the New York Cannabis Control Board will hold a public meeting of the Board at 1:00 P.M. on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, at SUNY Global Center, 116 E 55th St., Global Classroom, New York City.

Board Member Adam W. Perry will be joining from 181 Ellicott St. in Buffalo in a location accessible to the public. Board Member Jennifer Gilbert Jenkins will be joining from SUNY Morrisville, Bicknell Hall, Room 212, 80 Eaton St. in Morrisville in a location accessible to the public. This meeting will be open to the public and you can attend and provide public comment from any of the above locations. But you need to pre-register and can do so here.

New York cannabis entrepreneurs need to attend, speak up and urge the Cannabis Control Board to use the power and authority they have right now, and may not know they have. This board has the authority to increase the allotment of retail dispensary and microbusiness licenses, especially for those who have secured their own locations. (Not conditionally secured, but actually signed a lease and are paying rent, or have bought a location and have held the deed for months, and in some instances, years.)

The OCM originally stated in its Licensing FAQ that it would issue 500-1,000 retail licenses. And many of you applied based on those totals. Since then, it has been changed to 250 retail licenses/250 provisional (500 total), and now its a lottery. Nowhere in the Licensing FAQ says the word lottery.

Why the change? OCM Executive Director Christopher Alexander said the board will issue 250 permits to start as he expects dozens more of the 463 Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary (CAURD) program licensees to open shop in the next two months.

Were trying to keep a balance so that we never crash the market, Alexander said. Just a couple months ago farmers had excess product that couldnt get onto shelves. We also dont want to be in the opposite position where shelves are empty, and so we try to keep balance in the supply chain.

That contrasts with what OCM Policy Director John Kagia said during the Sept. 12 CCB meeting, when he said, Our early performance thus far makes it clear that demand is not the issue in this market  retail access is.

We all want to see the CAURD program succeed, however, as an article in Cannabis & Tech Today recently reported, The CAURD applicants who received licenses in the early days of the program are struggling to stay afloat. Many are paying rents or mortgages on unused buildings, begging investors not to jump ship, and signing over future profits for financial help today.

And there are also legitimate concerns with the CAURD program from the state legislature. Just this past November, MRTA Sponsor and Senate Finance Chairperson Liz Krueger (D) said, We need an investigation of the DASNY/private equity deals, which appear to be predatory and exploitative of CAURD licensees.

Let me make one thing perfectly clear: The OCM is a body of professionals doing their best. There are good, hard-working public servants at the OCM. That is a fact. If I felt otherwise, Id tell you.

However, there has been criticism of the OCMs rollout, including from many in the state legislature and executive branch.

Most, if not almost all the stakeholders that Ive interacted with, they have viewed the rollout  as challenging, to put it kindly, if not unsuccessful or a failure, said Senator James Skoufis (D), Chair of the Senate Committee on Investigations and Government Operations, at the October Subcommittee on Cannabis Hearing that Senator Jeremy Cooney (D) coordinated.

At that same hearing, Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Michelle Hinchey (D) commented on the surplus of legal cannabis and said she and other lawmakers have been sounding the alarm since the middle of the legislative session last year on the crisis thats happening right now for our cannabis farmers  to effectively very little to almost zero response.

NYS Assembly Economic Development Committee Chair Al Stirpe (D) recently described OCM as an informational black hole compared to other state agencies. Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Donna Lupardo recently said the New York cannabis farmer is financially ruined based on circumstances beyond their control.

OCMs Alexander is quoted saying the slow rollout is the product of a choice that we have made as a state The choice to do the hard thing. To make sure that those who are impacted have an opportunity to participate in a meaningful way.

Yet, NYS Budget Director Blake Washington said recently that the states slow rollout of legalized marijuana sales has created fiscal stress and said calling the rollout effort disappointing is an understatement.

Everyone in government understands that constructive criticism is expected. However, a lot of New York cannabis applicants that are unfamiliar with government are afraid to speak up out of fear of retaliation. That may be an irrational fear, but it is a real fear.

New Yorkers need to know ... the operation of responsible democratic government requires that the fullest opportunity be afforded to the people to petition their government for the redress of grievances and to express freely to appropriate officials their opinions on legislation and governmental operations.

You absolutely can speak up without fear of retribution, not just because free speech is protected in the United States Constitution, but because good government feeds off public comment. Plus, its illegal for anyone to abuse authority in that fashion.

Regarding the CCBs authority to issue retail dispensary licenses, the MRTA states: No retail license shall be granted for any premises, unless the applicant shall be the owner thereof, or shall be able to demonstrate possession of the premises within thirty days of final approval of the license through a lease, management agreement or other agreement giving the applicant control over the premises, in writing, for a term not less than the license period.

So, many New Yorkers went and legitimately secured a location. Not through a conditional lease, or a Letter of Intent, or a sublease arrangement. They also secured their Certificate of Occupancy (COO), Labor Peace Agreements, and everything else they were told they would need. These New Yorkers used their own money and made capital investments. Now those New Yorkers find themselves in a Hunger Games-like lottery.

Its not right. It may be legal. But its not fair.

Simply put, New Yorkers need the Cannabis Control board to deliberate on Wednesday and invest themselves in their assigned authority. We need them to significantly increase the number of licenses issued for retail dispensaries. Period. If these retail licensees will not have enough product on their shelves, which has been suggested and is also highly debatable, that will be their problem.

And most importantly, this board should not be limiting the awarding of retail licenses to just a few hundred right now, while the entire state is dealing with the explosive proliferation of thousands and thousands of illicit dispensaries. Leaders across New York have acknowledged that to combat the illicit dispensaries/bodegas/smoke shops, we need more legal dispensaries.

These illicit stores are selling whoknowswhat and it has created a public health emergency. The Cannabis Control Board must recognize the fate of these New Yorkers who secured their locations and followed the rules, rests with them. I plead to them to please debate this issue at the Cannabis Control Board meeting this Wednesday. Please game this out, even if it takes a few hours.

If the CCB ends up issuing 1,000 retail licenses to those with their own location from the current applications, it will still be a fraction of the thousands of illicit stores our kids think are legitimate. By the way, when the OCM suspended the enforcement hearings of those illicit shops, it only emboldened those illicit operators to continue to expand and expand and expand. The Cannabis Control Board members have the authority to determine the final number of licenses issued as well as the timing of the issuance of those licenses. Please use it.

I am a veteran lobbyist in New York at a top ten lobbying firm surrounded by unbelievable experts in our Cannabis Practice Group, and yet, following the OCMs ever-changing license process is still like trying to nail Jell-O to the wall. Imagine how the average New Yorker who attended the OCMs Roadmap to Adult-Use Applications workshops, and were encouraged to apply, must feel.

On the bright side, there are 3,500+ liquor stores in New York State, and ideally there will be as many adult-use (legal) cannabis dispensaries. This will be a multibillion-dollar industry in NYS someday. But not without the Cannabis Control Board exercising their authority. As that extraordinary New Yorker and Rochesterian I quoted at the top also said, Our destiny is largely in our hands. If you would like to share your concerns to the Cannabis Control Board prior to the meeting Wednesday, thankfully you are able to email the board members as they are public officials. Their email addresses are:

jessica.garcia@ocm.ny.gov

tremaine.wright@ocm.ny.gov

adam.w.perry@ocm.ny.gov

Hope.Knight@esd.ny.gov

gilberjk@morrisville.edu

To conclude, for those that will no doubt criticize me for this opinion, I will triple-down and quote one of New Yorks greatest, who said, I prefer to be true to myself, even at the hazard of incurring the ridicule of others, rather than to be false, and to incur my own abhorrence.
Update: This report was updated with more information from the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office.

Clayton, N.Y.  An Onondaga County man was found dead Sunday morning after his truck plunged into the St. Lawrence River, officials said.
Syracuse, N.Y.  The Syracuse Common Council on Monday unanimously adopted changes in the way the city seizes properties from owners who have failed to pay taxes.

If signed by Mayor Ben Walsh, a new law will establish a procedure in which owners can recover money for their properties if they are worth more than the tax debt. The change became necessary because of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last spring that affected foreclosures in 10 states, including New York.
More people view Gov. Kathy Hochul favorably than not for the first time in nearly a year, according to a new poll from Siena College.

About 45% of the people in the poll viewed Hochul favorably, compared with 42% who viewed her unfavorably. Thats up from November, when the split was 40% favorable and 43% unfavorable.
U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand wants the federal government to help lure a large grocery store to Valley Plaza in Syracuse, which has seen two supermarkets close since 2009.

Gillibrand, D-N.Y., plans to visit Valley Plaza today to talk about her legislation that would help combat food deserts where most residents dont have access to large stores selling affordable, nutritious food.

A bill that Gillibrand introduced last year would set aside $50 million per year from federal taxpayers to help lure grocery stores to such underserved areas.

The money would fund the Healthy Food Financing Initiative, which aims to provide grants and loans to grocery stores that agree to open in urban and rural areas where there are no affordable alternatives.

A P&C Foods store at Valley Plaza that had served the citys South Side closed in 2009.

In 2012, Tops Friendly Markets agreed to spend $1.5 million to open a new store at the shopping plaza at 4141 South Salina St.

Tops received $850,000 in state and local aid as an incentive to build the store. But just six years later, Tops closed the store after filing for bankruptcy.

Among those supporting Gillibrands effort to erase food deserts are Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh, Karen Belcher, executive director of the Food Bank of Central New York, and Rhonda Vesey, founder of Food Access Healthy Neighborhoods Now.

Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 22. The delegation of Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs Rashid Meredov, is on a working visit to Japan on January 22-23, 2024, Trend reports.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, meetings are planned within the framework of the visit in the Government, Parliament, relevant ministries and departments, with the leadership of financial and export credit agencies and leading Japanese companies.

The agenda of the upcoming meetings will focus on issues related to strengthening interstate dialogue, expanding contacts through inter-parliamentary cooperation, further developing political and diplomatic cooperation, building up trade and economic partnership, as well as deepening scientific and educational ties.

Meanwhile, the previous visit of the Turkmen delegation to Japan took place in December last year, during which two contracts were signed between the Turkmenhimiya State Concern and the Japanese Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. company, as well as representatives of the aviation departments of Turkmenistan and Japan held a meeting in Tokyo, during which they discussed the establishment of direct flights between the two countries.

Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Facepalm: Even though they can now choose from a remarkably long list of attacks against corporate networks, cybercriminals often resort to "simpler" methods like brute-force password guessing. No one is safe from insecure email accounts, after all.

Microsoft recently detected a nation-state attack against its corporate email network, identifying the likely culprit as Midnight Blizzard. Also known as Apt29, Nobelium, and Cozy Bear, the infamous Russian cybercrime gang is well-known for being directly tied to the Kremlin's offensive intelligence activities against Microsoft and other major Western organizations.

The attack started in late November 2023, Microsoft revealed, when Midnight Blizzard employed a password spray attack to compromise a legacy, non-production test account. Password spraying is a quintessential brute-force attack where a cybercriminal tries to guess a known user's password from a list of common passwords. The attack is often automated and slowly occurring, as the threat actor tries to fly under the radar.

Once they gained a foothold in the "test" account, the Russian cybercriminals exploited its permissions to access a "very small" percentage of corporate accounts. Members of the company's senior leadership team, employees in cybersecurity, legal, and other departments were affected, and some emails and attached documents were exfiltrated.

The Russian hackers were ultimately interested in information regarding their own activities, Microsoft said. There was no evidence of the intruders potentially accessing customer environments, production systems, source code, or "AI systems." The company also reiterates that the attack wasn't the result of a vulnerability in its products or services, though it will notify customers if the need arises.

The attack highlights how dangerous Russian state actors (and Midnight Blizzard in particular) continue to be for all IT organizations. Microsoft informed the affected employees and denied the hackers "further access" into its networks. The company is also preparing some significant changes in how security matters are managed internally in line with the recently announced Secure Future Initiative (SFI).

Microsoft will employ "AI-based" cyberdefense mechanisms, and impose a stronger application of internal norms to legacy applications (and everything else) to try to avoid another Russian incursion in its systems. The Redmond giant says it wants to shift the balance between security and business risk, as the traditional approach is no longer sufficient against a quickly evolving landscape. Some level of disruption is expected but will be dealt with, Microsoft said.
Loughborough University in the UK emerges as the first to use holographic technology to present international guest lecturers to increase student engagement and provide immersive educational opportunities.

The university has partnered with LA-based firm Proto, known for its holographic units used by companies like BT and IBM for virtual meetings, as reported by The Guardian. These holographic units, integrated into classrooms, will bring subject experts and professionals from diverse fields together to engage with students. Loughborough plans to leverage this technology across various disciplines, such as sports, science, and fashion.

Leading the rollout of holographic technology at Loughborough, Prof. Vikki Locke emphasizes students' overwhelming enthusiasm for the holographic guest lecturers. She notes that students prefer the lifelike and engaging nature of holographic presentations compared to traditional methods. Scheduled for 2025, the university plans to formally integrate holographic technology into its curriculum after a year of experimentation and refinement.

Revolutionizing Learning Experience

David Nussbaum, Proto's creator, suggests employing AI to show holographic pictures of historical individuals. He suggests constructing AI replicas of famous people like Stephen Hawking with realistic looks, speech, and interactions. The university's futuristic strategy uses immersive and revolutionary technology to prepare students for changing employment landscapes.

Immersive technology and AI literacy help students prepare for employment, according to Loughborough University professor Gary Burnett. "Different immersive technologies and AI are the new forms of literacy," he noted. Moreover, holographic technology may help the institution achieve sustainability objectives, reduce guest speaker travel, and boost worldwide research partnerships, according to pro-vice-chancellor Rachel Thomson.

Beyond engagement, holographic technology can illustrate complicated equipment and reduce student project materials. Nussbaum hopes to make holographic capabilities more affordable with tiny systems around $1,000. He recognizes the legal risks of making holographic avatars that resemble people.

Read Also: Upgrade Your PS5 Gaming Experience with These Essential Accessories

This Loughborough University endeavor follows a trend in education to use immersive technology and AI to improve learning and prepare students for the workforce.

According to The Economist, researchers are studying the use of AI in education, notably in individualized teaching and marking automation. However, they pointed out that AI chatbots have issues, including providing false information.

Heat-Absorbing Microcapsules Possible Solution for High Temps in Devices

In a parallel development, Dr. Goran Vladisavljevic and his team at Loughborough University have developed microcapsules containing phase change materials (PCMs) that efficiently absorb heat in electronic devices. These 0.2-mm-wide capsules, requiring no external energy source, transition from a solid to a liquid state at elevated temperatures, absorbing significant heat before resetting when temperatures decrease.

According to the university's news release, UV light and a specialized microfluidic device inspired by Lego bricks are used in Dr. Vladisavljevic's innovative process to produce uniform microcapsules with various sizes, thicknesses, and PCM types. Moreover, this breakthrough tackles the challenge of managing heat generated by electric currents in smaller electronic devices, offering potential applications in cooling smartphones, laptops, batteries, and solar energy generators.

The technology has undergone rigorous testing for mechanical stability at the University of Birmingham and durability at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany. The team envisions further development and testing of the capsules in industrial settings in the near future.

Related Article: New Study Exposes Disturbing Link Between Energy Drinks and Health Issues in Young People

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ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 22. Specialists from Turkmenistan's Turkmengeology State Corporation are performing hydrogeological exploration work to locate and discover sources of drinking water in the country's provinces, Trend reports.

This was announced to President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov by Deputy Chairman of the Government, Batyr Amanov, at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers.

It was noted at the meeting that modern technologies and equipment are used in the exploration of groundwater.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov noted the relevance of the tasks of hydrogeologists in the search for drinking water deposits, emphasizing the importance of scientific support for this activity and advocating the strengthening of its material and technical component.

Furthermore, water difficulties were addressed in the report of Turkmenistan's Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers, Tangryguly Atakhallyev, who reported on actions taken to increase water reserves in reservoirs for crop irrigation purposes.

Meanwhile, Turkmenistan's water industry contributes significantly to the country's economic and agricultural growth.

Irrigation systems developed within the framework of government programs allow the optimal use of water resources for rural agriculture, resulting in increased yields and a reduction in reliance on unpredictable weather conditions.

Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Like all else during the start of the year, Google also has plans on what it will work on for the rest of the year, laying out the goals of 2024 right before January ends, centering on the significant developments for its tech. This was revealed by Google's CEO, Sundar Pichai, addressing the company on what specific plans it has that it will soon deliver to the world via its products and features.

Google Goals 2024: Sundar Pichai's Ambitions for the Year

A company-wide memo from the Google CEO addressed what the company will focus on for this year, with AI being its top priority to offer, centering on improved experiences and safety. As obtained by The Verge, here are the goals for 2024 that Pichai and Google are looking forward to achieving for its new year:

Deliver the world's most advanced, safe, and responsible Al. Improve knowledge, learning, creativity, and productivity. Build the most helpful personal computing platforms and devices. Enable organizations and developers to innovate on Google Cloud. Provide the world's most trusted products and platforms. Build a Google that's extraordinary for Googlers and the world. Improve company velocity, efficiency, and productivity, and deliver durable cost savings.

Read Also: Google Announces Further Workforce Reductions, Targeting Advertising Sales Team

What to Expect from Google's Tech Development

From AI to improving more of its products and services coming this year, Google has no shortage of work to do to achieve its goals for 2024, also promising improvements for its Googlers and workforce. Google Cloud also gets a highlight, but one of the most anticipated is the Gemini Ultra, with a massive focus on improving more of its AI.

Also, while not mentioned by Pichai, Pixel 9 is expected from the company, anticipated to offer improved AI integration this year.

Google and What it Has In Store for All

While this announcement from Google is looking forward to new beginnings and improvements for what the tech has to offer, there are still dark days ahead for its employees, especially with the recent layoffs that took place. However, that was not yet the end of it, per Google's top executive, as Pichai claimed that there are more coming soon, telling employees to brace for further reductions.

Another of what Google recently changed and one thing that customers can look forward to for the rest of the year is the company's upgrade for its web browser app, centering on the privacy and security features available. Early this year, the company began phasing out the third-party cookies for Chrome that would boost more of the privacy of its users and help improve the speed of its use.

There has been a mixture of good and bad for Google early this year, and it both applies to its customers and employees who rely on the company's progression. While layoffs are massive from Google now especially with many job cuts experienced, Pichai and the company is looking to improve more of its craft this year, with AI its top priority, among its other products.

Related Article: Google Announces $1 Billion Investment for New UK Data Centre

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Last week in the world of tech, the world has seen massive developments come to light, but one of the most controversial here is Walmart's decision to remove a physical game from its online and retail platforms. However, there is also the threat of Pegasus Spyware for iPhone users in the world, but the good thing is Kaspersky offers a way to protect one's self from access.

Moreover, there is also the massive showcase from Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked January 2024, showcasing the all-new S24 series, with a massive focus on AI.

Walmart to Remove Physical Video Game Copies from Stores

In a surprising move from one of the United States' top retail and e-commerce companies, Walmart, it has decided to remove a physical video game from its stores, starting this Monday, January 22.

This latest move was spotted by an insider, Andrew Marmo, who shared the company's memo that confirms the removal of one specific game, best known for being Xbox and Bethesda's AAA-rated game this year, Starfield. The document said that it would "destroy" the said game in the upcoming week and is removing it from the shelves to sell to potential customers.

However, there were no reasons shared by the company regarding its removal. It also did not mention anything about the beginning of its phase-out for physical games or if it is only an isolated case for Starfield. Still, it would be a massive blow to gamers opting for Walmart's physical copy of this Xbox-featured title.

Read Also: Quantum Computing Could Start a Cybersecurity Armageddon, According to IBM

Kaspersky Warns About iPhone Pegasus Spyware Access

There is a massive spread of the infamous spyware targetting iPhones known as Pegasus, and Kaspersky has shared ways about how to protect one's device and data from potential access from this vulnerability. The Pegasus spyware brings a looming threat that would be hard to detect for users, but there is also the threat from the strains including Reign and Predator.

According to Kaspersky, the vulnerability was traced on the iOS' Shutdown.log, stored in the sysdiagnose archive. This occurs whenever there is a reboot done, allowing Pegasus malware and the like to appear on the login upon boot.

Kaspersky recommends rebooting the device daily to disrupt the zero-click and zero-day exploits present, alongside using Apple's Lockdown mode. Moreover, it also recommends disabling FaceTime and iMessage services, as well as keeping the device updated.

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Series: All About AI

Last week, the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked January 2024 took place, and it brought one of the largest developments in smartphones right at the start of the year, coming in with the Galaxy S24 series. Apart from the iconic hardware upgrades like the flatter look of the display and camera improvements, one of the main focuses of this year's release is its AI integration.

Also known as the Galaxy AI, Samsung's newfound focus on AI sees application to different Galaxy apps, including the Phone app used for Calls, Recordings for Transcript Assist, Chat Assist, and Camera AI including Space Zoom, Generative Edit, and Instant Slow-Mo.

Related Article: Study Says Dark Chocolate Linked to Lower Risk of Hypertension and Blood Clots

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Upon its debut, Apple's upcoming Vision Pro is set to face criticism for the absence of essential apps, reigniting tensions with specific developers. Additionally, more insights surface regarding the device's launch day experience.

(Photo : Apple)

CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today unveiled Apple Vision Pro, a revolutionary spatial computer that seamlessly blends digital content with the physical world, while allowing users to stay present and connected to others.

Not Including First Party Apps

While it might not come as a major surprise that a significant portion of the "over 1 million" apps touted for the Vision Pro by Apple could be existing iPad or iPhone versions, what raises eyebrows is the inclusion of some prominent first-party apps.

The Verge reported that additionally, Apple's Podcasts, News, Calendar, and Reminders will also be part of this category.

At first glance, this choice seems somewhat peculiar for Apple's highly anticipated new platform. The efficacy of the Vision Pro's gaze-and-tap interface in adapting to these touch-centric apps will likely determine whether it becomes a real issue.

Admittedly, apps like Reminders may not require mind-blowing immersive 3D effects, but for those who see the Vision Pro as a potential productivity device, the seamless integration of main input methods with apps like Calendar becomes crucial.

A less-than-optimal experience with essential apps could potentially dampen the allure of the $3,500 device for some users. This underscores a prevailing narrative of subdued excitement surrounding Vision Pro's app ecosystem.

Developer interest appears lackluster, influenced by factors such as Apple's 30 percent App Store commission, a significant drawback, particularly for a product that may have an initial launch volume as modest as 80,000 units, resulting in a limited user base for app sales.

Furthermore, Bloomberg reported that independent developers, unable to access a Vision Pro developer kit, may be reluctant to invest in the high cost of entry, a sentiment echoed by app maker Paul Haddad in a Mastodon post.

Opting Out of the App Lineup

Prominent corporations are also opting out of the Vision Pro app lineup. Initially, both YouTube and Netflix won't offer native apps for the headset, and they've chosen not to allow their iPad apps to run on it either.

Instead, users can access their platforms through Safari, which may suffice, given that both websites support 4K playback via Apple's browser, at least on the Mac.

Perhaps the absence of specific apps on the Vision Pro won't be a significant drawback, unless, of course, you're particularly thrilled about the prospect of watching Star Wars in the middle of a desert.

Also Read: YouTube, Spotify Joins Netflix; Apple Vision Pro Compatible Apps Not Coming

It's crucial not to jump to conclusions about the Vision Pro's viability as a product without understanding how users will utilize it. The precedent set by the Apple Watch and Apple TV, neither celebrated for having a robust app ecosystem, suggests that user satisfaction can prevail nonetheless.

Similar to these devices, the headset represents a distinct platform from the iPad and iPhone. Nevertheless, the apparent lack of enthusiasm from developers raises concerns. Ultimately, for the Vision Pro to thrive, it will require more than just a handful of impressive 3D movie apps.

Related Article: Apple Vision Pro: ZEISS to Verify Prescriptions When Buying the XR Headset

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A prominent executive from Chinese tech giant Lenovo, the current owner of the Motorola brand, foresees Motorola emerging as the third-largest player in the global smartphone market within the next three years.

(Photo : (Photo credit should read PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images))

The Lenovo logo is pictured at the Mobile World Congress (MWC), the world's biggest mobile fair, on February 27, 2018 in Barcelona. The Mobile World Congress is held in Barcelona from February 26 to March 1.

Seeing Motorola

Over recent years, Phone Arena reported that Lenovo has actively worked to enhance the brand's standing, positioning it as a more upscale player in the smartphone industry to rival the likes of Samsung and Apple.

Matthew Zielinski, the President of International Markets at Lenovo, conveyed that the company has effectively revitalized the Motorola business by placing a heightened emphasis on it, and the positive outcomes of these efforts are now evident.

Zielinski exuded unwavering confidence in Motorola's future prospects, emphasizing that he is confident enough to bet on the company securing the third position globally within the next three years.

This statement underscores Lenovo's ambitious vision for Motorola's standing in the competitive landscape of the global smartphone market.

Upscaling Apple, Samsung

In the highly competitive global smartphone market, TechnoWize reported that Apple and Samsung jointly hold a significant 40% share, solidifying their positions as the top players.

Conversely, Motorola and Lenovo combined accounted for approximately 4% of the market in the third quarter of 2023, securing the eighth spot globally, as per Counterpoint Research.

Despite this, Motorola has achieved noteworthy success in specific regions, standing as the third-largest smartphone vendor by market share in the U.S. and the second-largest player in Latin America.

Zielinski outlined a focused approach to expanding market share geographically. The strategy entails steady growth in existing markets until reaching a 10% market share, which is anticipated to contribute to a global uplift.

A key aspect of Motorola's growth plan centers on the premium segment, an arena predominantly dominated by Apple and Samsung. Notably, the introduction of foldable devices, exemplified by the Razr, aligns with this strategy, given their elevated price points.

Zielinski characterized the launch of the Razr foldable as a strategic move, describing it as "taking a stab at the premium market."

Crucially, Zielinski highlighted a significant user trend, noting that a substantial portion of Razr smartphone users had transitioned from devices operating on a platform "not Android-based."

This underscores the prominence of Android, Google's mobile operating system, and the limited alternatives, with Apple's iOS being the only other major player in the mobile operating system landscape.

Also Read: Lenovo Unveils Hyper-Realistic AI Avatar for ALS Patients at CES 2024

CNBC reported that Zielinski also expressed Lenovo's preparedness to scale up its manufacturing facility in Pondicherry, India, in response to evolving demands.

This aligns with the Indian government's initiative to encourage electronics manufacturers to produce their goods within the country, a move already embraced by Apple, which has increased iPhone production in India.

Highlighting the strategic importance of India for Lenovo, Zielinski referred to it as by far one of the most strategic countries.

Lenovo aims to leverage its extensive range to benefit the masses. Zielinski emphasized ongoing discussions with the Indian government, the significance of local manufacturing, and the commitment to generating employment opportunities within the country.

Related Article: Motorola Unveils New AI Features and Adaptive Display Devices at Lenovo Tech World 2023

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Recent research challenges the prevailing belief that Megalodons were colossal creatures, suggesting a more nuanced perspective on their size. This discovery unveils a fresh understanding of Megalodons, countering the notion of them being mammoth predators.

(Photo : MICHELE SPATARI/AFP via Getty Images)

A black-tip sharks is seen swimming during a baited shark dive in Umkomaas near Durban, South Africa, on December 10, 2020. - Aliwal Shoal, a fossilised sand dune that lies about 4km offshore from the coastal town of Umkomaas, is one of the few places in the world where divers can dive without a cage with Oceanic Blacktip sharks and Tiger Sharks, as the apex predators are attracted by a bait drum filled with sardines.

Challenging Widely Accepted Perception

In a surprising revelation, scientists, led by Kenshu Shimada, a paleobiology professor at DePaul University, disclosed that Megalodons, formally known as Otodus megalodon, were more slender than previously imagined.

Interesting Engineering reported that the traditional image of Megalodon as a robust and monstrous predator, largely shaped by fossilized teeth and vertebrae, is being reconsidered.

Despite being often portrayed as an oversized shark reaching lengths of 50 to 65 feet, Megalodon's reputation as a cinematic icon in novels and sci-fi films, including The Meg, is now being questioned.

Shimada's study challenges the entrenched perception, providing evidence that Megalodon's body form was more elongated compared to its modern counterpart, the great white shark.

This revelation adds a new layer to our understanding of Megalodon's anatomy and challenges the conventional narrative that has persisted over the years, shedding light on a more nuanced perspective.

Also Read: Scientists Find 'World's Largest Seagrass Forest' With the Help of Cameras Attached to Sharks

The team behind this groundbreaking revelation comprised 26 shark experts from 29 academic institutions worldwide, spanning the United Kingdom, Austria, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, France, Australia, and the United States.

Among the diverse group of scientists contributing to the research was Jake Wood, one of Shimada's master's students.

Possible Setbacks for Paleontologists

Looking ahead, Wood emphasized the considerable challenges faced by paleontologists in comprehending the ancient giant's body form, asserting that any substantial discussion necessitates the discovery of at least one complete, or nearly complete, skeleton of O. megalodon in the fossil record.

While this discovery provides insights into Megalodon's more slender physique, EurekAlert reported that the complete appearance of this ancient creature remains veiled in mystery.

Beyond its contribution to our understanding of prehistoric marine life, the study highlights the collaborative and global nature of paleontological research.

In contemplating the substantial scientific progress achieved in their recent study, Shimada expressed thoughts on the persistent mystery surrounding the exact appearance of megalodon, highlighting how these unanswered questions continue to spark imagination.

He noted that the ongoing enigma contributes to the allure of paleontology, making the study of prehistoric life an endlessly fascinating and exciting field.

Ongoing Quest

The unresolved mystery surrounding Megalodon enhances the appeal of paleontology, captivating both the scientific community and enthusiasts.

As published in the journal Palaeontologia Electronica, the ongoing quest to unveil a complete skeleton and gain a more comprehensive understanding of this ancient predator adds an element of intrigue and excitement to the field.

Related Article: [WATCH] Drone Captures Orca Whales Devouring a Great White Shark in World-First Footage

 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A new study concluded by German researchers suggests that an increase in low-quality content and SEO spam has declined the quality of search results.

Researchers from Leipzig University, Bauhaus-University Weimar, and the Center for Scalable Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence recently completed a year-long study analyzing search results from Google, Bing, and DuckDuckGo.

For the study titled Is Google Getting Worse?, the researchers examined 7,392 product review queries across Google, Bing, and DuckDuckGo to see how the content is artificially optimized to be ranked higher in search results and get more clicks.

The researchers discovered that a torrent of low-quality content, especially for product search, drowned any kind of useful information in search results. Also, the majority of high-ranking product reviews found in response to such queries in the result pages were outright SEO product review spam.

This fact is attributed to the occurrence of affiliate marketing, where websites use product reviews and roundups to generate revenue through special links directing to retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.

Our findings suggest that all search engines have significant problems with highly optimized (affiliate) content  more than is representative for the entire web according to a baseline retrieval system on the ClueWeb22. Focussing on the product review genre, we find that only a small portion of product reviews on the web uses affiliate marketing, but the majority of all search results do, noted the study.

The research team concluded Googles declining quality is due to the manipulative SEO techniques that websites use to get higher Google rankings. The referring entity then receives a commission for clicks or purchases resulting from the referral.

SEO is a constant battle and we see repeated patterns of review spam entering and leaving the results as search engines and SEO engineers take turns adjusting their parameters, the researchers wrote. In other words, they write, search engines seem to lose the cat-and-mouse game that is SEO spam.

The study found that Google performed significantly better than Bing and DuckDuckGo and their search results did improve over the course of the study despite the severity of the issue. However, a Google spokesperson defended the company saying that the research doesnt capture the complete picture of Googles overall performance, as it only focuses on a narrow set of queries  namely product search.

This particular study looked narrowly at product review content, and it doesnt reflect the overall quality and helpfulness of Search for the billions of queries we see every day, a Google spokesperson said.

Weve launched specific improvements to address these issues  and the study itself points out that Google has improved over the past year and is performing better than other search engines. More broadly, numerous third parties have measured search engine results for other types of queries and found Google to be of significantly higher quality than the rest.

The study suggests that Google results did improve to some extent during the course of the researchers experiment. However, the researchers found an overall downward trend in text quality in all three search engines. The situation will only get worse with the presence of AI-generated spam, the study warns.

We conclude that dynamic adversarial spam in the form of low-quality, mass-produced commercial content deserves more attention, the researchers note.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 22. Entrepreneurs from Turkmenistan wish to participate in the ExpoIran international exhibition to promote their products on the Iranian market, Trend reports.

These issues were discussed during a meeting between Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan Mergen Gurdov and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Iran to Ashgabat Ali Mojtaba Roozbahani.

At the meeting, the sides discussed ways to further develop trade and economic relations between Turkmenistan and Iran and expand the range of mutual cooperation.

During the meeting, the sides also exchanged views on holding regular meetings of the Intergovernmental Turkmen-Iranian Commission on Economic Cooperation, organizing events between the business circles of the border regions of the two countries, as well as joint exhibitions and fairs.

Meanwhile, from November 17 to 19 last year, a specialized exhibition called Iran Proze was held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan in Ashgabat.

The exhibition was attended by about 100 Iranian companies operating in various industries, including construction materials, machinery, engineering services, hydroelectric power, energy, oil and gas, petrochemicals, education and trade sectors.
They simply had nowhere to evolve: a Russian paleontologist on the progress of scientific ideas about dinosaurs

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

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

The first batch of imported exhibits of the 135th Canton Fair entered the country smoothly

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.

Putin expressed gratitude for conducting the election campaign according to the law

It warms the heart: the president of Puy du Fou reacts to the prize for best show in the world

Operational-tactical aviation and artillery: the Russian Armed Forces struck the site of a meeting of the command staff of the SBU and the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Court describes the role of Puigdemont's right-hand man as "essential" and endorses the Tsunami investigation

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

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.

Operation seduction of the head of Chinese diplomacy in New Zealand and Australia

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?

 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.
They simply had nowhere to evolve: a Russian paleontologist on the progress of scientific ideas about dinosaurs

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

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

The first batch of imported exhibits of the 135th Canton Fair entered the country smoothly

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.

It warms the heart: the president of Puy du Fou reacts to the prize for best show in the world

Operational-tactical aviation and artillery: the Russian Armed Forces struck the site of a meeting of the command staff of the SBU and the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Court describes the role of Puigdemont's right-hand man as "essential" and endorses the Tsunami investigation

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

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.
After nearly five hours of debate, the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board on Thursday voted unanimously to promote top administrator Adam Smith to take over as interim superintendent until the board can find a permanent replacement for Leslie Brown, who resigned last month after only two months in charge.

The vote did not come easy, with multiple attempts to come up with an alternate leadership scheme that would have kept Smith out of the top job.

When it finally happened, just before 10 p.m., there was a standing ovation from the audience. Smith is one of two associate superintendents and a 24-year veteran of the school system who has risen through the ranks and is well liked by many. Some pushed the board to go even further and install Smith in the job permanently  Smith was a semifinalist in the search that led to Browns hiring but failed to make the final cut.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 22. Uzbekistan's Senate supplements and amends the law "On the Use of Renewable Energy Sources" with regard to the provision and implementation of green energy certificates and state support for the use of renewable energy sources, Trend reports.

Uzbekistan has been implementing consistent reforms to ensure energy sustainability, introduction of renewable energy sources and energy-saving technologies, improvement of state support mechanisms for the industry in recent years.

Currently, the share of renewable energy sources in the total volume of electricity production in Uzbekistan is almost 10 percent.

In this direction, Uzbekistan intends to increase the capacity of renewable energy sources to 27 GW by 2030, and the total volume of electricity production to at least 40 percent.

This will make it possible to save 25 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually and reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere by 34 million tons.

In order to achieve these indicators it is necessary to revise some norms in the current legislation.

The law stipulates that connection to the unified electric power system of power generated using renewable energy sources with a capacity of 300 kW and above shall be carried out only after registration of these sources with a specially approved state authority.

Furthermore, the law introduces an addition to the Tax Code on exemption from income tax of revenues from the sale of green energy certificates of generation facilities based on the use of renewable energy sources.

Senators noted that the law serves the wide introduction of renewable energy sources in social and housing and communal spheres and sectors of the economy, elimination of energy deficit in the regions of the country by improving energy efficiency and defining favorable conditions and incentive mechanisms for investors.

At the end of the discussion, the Law was approved by the senators.
The three finalists for East Baton Rouge Parish school superintendent all spent time as turnaround principals charged with improving the operation and academic performance of low-performing schools.

Whoever lands the top job will be tasked with turning around some 32 schools, more than a third of all the schools in the states second largest traditional school district.

+2 Interim Superintendent Smith collapses; interview for top Baton Rouge schools job being rescheduled Adam Smith, interim superintendent of the East Baton Rouge Parish school system, fainted as he was speaking live at a town hall Friday afterno

The three finalists are Sito Narcisse of Washington, D.C.; Marla Smith of Kansas City; and Adam Smith of Baton Rouge. Sheppard interviewed Wednesday and Narcisse interviewed Thursday, answering questions for four hours each.

Smith, who is the interim superintendent in the school system, started his interview Friday afternoon, but about 30 minutes in, he complained of ringing in his ears and abruptly collapsed. He was taken by EMS to the hospital for examination, but returned home that night and is expected to return to work Monday.
FILE - In this Monday, Jan. 24, 2011 file picture, anti-abortion and pro-choice activists stand next to each other in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington during a rally on the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision. Americans, regardless of generation, are deeply conflicted as they wrestle with the legality and morality of abortion, with a substantial majority identifying themselves as both "pro-choice" and "pro-life," according to a sweeping new survey. The detailed and nuanced findings were released Thursday, June 9, 2011 by the Public Religion Research Institute, based on a survey of 3,000 adults _ one of the largest ever to focus on Americans' views of abortion. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) ORG XMIT: NY431
Louisiana Inspired

(RNS)  Women have a way of reflecting on theology that is different from us men, Francis told the International Theological Commission.
Andrew Forrests Wyloo Metals in the latest nickel miner to shut down its West Australian operations due to low prices for the key steel and battery ingredient, forcing BHP to follow suit and close a processing plant.

Wyloo chief executive Luca Giacovazzi said its WA mines, bought in mid-2023 for $760 million, would enter care and maintenance mode on 31 May. It was the fourth such announcement this month as nickel producers reel from a price plunge of more than 40 per cent in 2023.

Andrew Forrest wants to invest in green hydrogen as well as battery minerals in an emissions-reduction business strategy. Credit: WEF / Greg Beadle

Forrests privately owned company plans to retain most of its 44 employees at its Cassini mine 130 kilometres south of Kalgoorlie and a group of mines about 50 kilometres south of the mining town into care and maintenance on 31 May and work with its mining contractor to redeploy its workers.

Wyloo is the major source of ore for BHPs nickel processing plant at Kambalda.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 22. The delegation of Uzbekistan headed by First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhromjon Aloyev took part in the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement, which was held on January 19-20, 2024 in Kampala (Uganda), Trend reports.

The event was attended by delegations of more than 100 states, including at the level of heads of state, governments, foreign ministries and their deputies.

During the meeting, the participants exchanged views on topical issues on the international agenda, as well as considered proposals to utilize the existing potential of the Movement in ensuring global peace and stability, socio-economic development.

The Uzbek delegation expressed gratitude to all members of the Movement for supporting Uzbekistan's candidacy for the chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement for 2027-2029, and informed the participants about the main directions of large-scale and dynamic reforms underway in Uzbekistan, affecting all spheres of society.

Particular attention was paid to the importance of enhancing cooperation in transportation and logistics, improving economic and financial systems, combating climate change and protecting the environment. The need to strengthen cooperation and experience exchange in the field of science and innovative technologies, as well as support for the younger generation was emphasized.

Earlier, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov announced about Uzbekistan's chairmanship of Non-Aligned Movement in 2027-2029 at the ministerial meeting of the Coordinating Bureau of the Non-Aligned Movement in Baku.
Lyons, a former head of current affairs and investigations at the ABC, said the letters showed the organisation had bowed to a group of lawyers lobbying for a foreign power. The clue is in the name: Lawyers for Israel thought that they could run a campaign to bully an ABC journalist out of her job and they did, they succeeded. Lyons, a former Middle East correspondent for The Australian, wrote a book called Balcony over Jerusalem in which he detailed his battles with Australias Israel lobby over his journalism. Union staff set out five demands for Anderson and senior management to address to win back confidence from both staff and the public, including the future backing of its journalism without fear or favour.

Loading Other demands include working with its house committee to build a culturally informed process to support staff facing attacks or criticism; taking urgent action on the lack of security and inequality faced by journalists of colour; working with unions to develop clearer and fairer social media policies; and upholding a transparent complaints process, where the relevant journalist is informed and supported throughout. Lyons, who has visited the Middle East many times, including two trips since the October 7 attack, told colleagues the issues extended far beyond the ongoing Fair Work case involving Lattouf. He told staff there had been a recent directive that the word genocide could not be used to describe the Israeli military campaign in Gaza, even when quoting someone, without it being upwardly referred to a manager, but that we can talk to any of the victims of the Hamas October 7 massacre, which we should and we put that to air. Its only ever one side and thats one of the things that has really motivated me that I want to speak out about, Lyons said. He said staff were often thrown under the bus by management, and staff were beginning to self-censor as a result.

When the heats on, our journalists are not being supported by management. I think thats clear  We are being attacked by outside groups, and nobody from the ABC is out there defending us. Many of us feel we are very much on our own. Lyons also said the broadcaster was at risk of losing all of its best diverse staff, with Stan Grant hung out to dry by management in 2023 over his comments during the ABCs coverage of King Charles coronation, which ultimately ended in Grants departure. Lyons told colleagues Stan Grant was hung out to dry by ABC management. Credit: ABC They come for a while, and then theyre out the door because they get a taste of what its like to work here for them. Lyons criticised the ABCs decision to hand over footage collected by Four Corners staff to West Australian police in late-2023 following an investigation into climate protesters, adding: The role of investigative journalism is to expose bad things. Not to be gathering material to make it easier for the police to prosecute people who have trusted us, and given us interviews.

And he said he had been ordered not to go to Adelaide Writers Week to promote his own book. They told me that I write about Israel and, You have been the focus of complaints. Loading This means it could be a fossil fuel lobby group could send five or 10 complaints about a particular journalist here and is that enough to stop you being out there to speak publicly about your journalism. In his statement, Anderson said he was proud of the ABCs journalism. I have worked hard to stand by the ABCs journalists and ensure they are protected from punitive behaviour that would hinder their work and ultimately affect the independence of the ABC ... I have and will continue to robustly defend the work of our journalists, who often face significant external pressure themselves  It is not a role I take lightly.



This masthead can also reveal that Buttrose responded personally to someone who had complained about Lattouf just a few hours after the temporary radio host was sacked. Buttrose emailed the Melbourne letter-writer informing them that their complaint had been sent to the ABCs chief content officer, and added: Lattouf no longer works at the ABC. Outgoing ABC chair Ita Buttrose. The woman who wrote the complaint letter, whom this masthead has chosen not to name, said in a WhatsApp group of Jewish creatives and academics: I dont know how much our emails affected the decision, but Im impressed with their power. Documents sighted by this masthead show that Buttrose referred her to an ABC statement saying Lattouf would not be back on air.

Loading Lattoufs lawyer, Josh Bornstein, said earlier on Monday that the ABC had backflipped on its defence of her sacking, and was now saying she had never been terminated. The change was an attempt to have Lattoufs unlawful termination case thrown out, according to Bornstein over a jurisdictional issue, even though in its defence filed on January 15 it had said it terminated her employment. We have sought a detailed explanation from the ABC for its about face. If the ABC pursues this jurisdictional challenge, it is likely that evidence will need to be called from senior management, Bornstein said. The ABC denied there had been any backflip, with a spokesman saying in a statement: It was clear on the evidence provided in the ABCs response to Ms Lattoufs claim that she had not been terminated. The jurisdictional objection was formalised as soon as it became clear the matter had not resolved.
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The forthcoming venue, which wont be Greek but will serve pizza, expands the hospitality groups Potts Point footprint.

Theres a new sibling on the way for chefs hatted Sydney restaurant The Apollo. The crew from the stalwart Potts Point eatery has nabbed the former site of Bourke Street Bakery and Paper Bird, across the road from the Macleay Street restaurant.

Unlike its big brother, it wont be Greek. Itll be European, says Jonathan Barthelmess, co-owner of The Apollo Group. The venue will serve pizza but it wont be a pizza restaurant when it opens in the second half of 2024.

The Apollo on Macleay Street, Potts Point. Supplied

We dont have a name yet, but itll open seven days a week, lunch and dinner, Barthelmess says.

Barthelmess and his business partner, Sam Christie, certainly have the track record for a cuisine pivot. Christies first big Sydney hit was pioneering Thai restaurant Longrain, which closed in Surry Hills in 2019.
Three people have been arrested over the stabbing death of a man in Melbournes south-east at the weekend.

Homicide squad detectives launched an investigation after Samuel Baker Ayul from Ashburton was found unresponsive and with life-threatening injuries in Hampton East on Sunday afternoon.

He was taken by ambulance to The Alfred hospital in a critical condition, but died shortly after.

Ayul is being remembered as an intelligent man who moved to Melbourne from South Sudan.
Theres a new clue in the hunt for two masked bandits wanted over the desecration of the grave of an underworld figures sister.

Victoria Police believe an overseas crime boss ordered the men to remove her corpse but they stopped short, instead stealing an expensive diamond ring.

Meshilin Marrogis resting place.

Investigators revealed on Monday they believe the pair used a dark-coloured Mini Cooper car during the macabre heist.

That type of vehicle was reportedly seen in the area near Preston General Cemetery in Melbournes north the same morning.
A bitter pill

As a doctor, my colleagues and I have watched with increasing horror the efforts made by some in our community to silence any health professional who voices concern for Palestinian civilians through complaints to the medical board (Doctors face watchdog over Israel, Gaza posts, 22/1). According to them, we as a profession are to watch hospitals be bombed, doctors killed and a catastrophic civilian death toll with detached resignation, and above all, silence.

The reporting of a doctor for use of the word genocide while Israel was at the International Court of Justice facing charges of genocide perfectly demonstrates the merit of these complaints.

In the context of the recently exposed Lawyers for Israel group and their campaign against Antoinette Lattouf, this concurrent targeting of doctors should concern us all. There must be room for intelligent discussion around the proportionality of Israels response in Gaza without fear for ones employment or having to seek legal counsel.

Not to mention that AHPRA already has a backlog in dealing with complaints of substance (Is the national watchdog sick, 22/1). I fund AHPRA with my registration fees to protect the public from harm, not from humanitarian concern for Palestinians.

Name withheld on request, Melbourne Appropriate channels

Yet again, Zionists are being criticised for using the proper complaints channels to highlight hate speech and antisemitism. Organisations such as AHPRA have been set up specifically to deal with complaints regarding healthcare workers and are used regularly for this very purpose by all sectors of society. Yet when Jewish Zionists use these channels for their intended purpose they are singled out.

Jewish patients have taken the appropriate path and used the correct channels open to all. This is the very purpose of AHPRA. The doctors have the benefit of a fair and robust investigation in which they can defend themselves, so lets leave it to AHPRA to decide whether the complaints were valid.

Keren Zelwer, St Kilda East The bigger question

Parnell Palme McGuinness reflection on free speech contradictions by various individuals implies there is no limit to what can be said (The problem with moral yoga is that its almost impossible to hold the pose, 21/1). There are laws about racist and hate speech, which define what is acceptable. It is not decided on a whim. Equating the posts of Israel Folau, Antoinette Lattouf and Usman Khawaja is a long bow. Lattouf retweeted a post of Human Rights Watch, Khawajas shoes promoted equality and freedom, while Israel Folau condemned homosexuality. They all allegedly broke the social media rules of their employers. Now we have 59 doctors reported for making comments about Israels actions on private encrypted accounts for breaking protocol. The bigger question is not moral yoga, but the selective use of these protocols which do not impact or create hate or racism or impact a persons ability to perform their job.

Susan Simpson, Surrey Hills Two states

So President Joe Biden has proposed that an independent, democratic, unarmed Palestinian state be created within Israeli borders to solve the existing crisis (Netanyahu steadfast against Bidens two-state solution as hostages families protest, 22/1). But that was almost the same, less the independent bit, as before. What happened then was the democratically elected administration of Gaza turned its blind eye to the construction of a tunnel labyrinth, allowed it to be filled it with contraband munitions, and enabled fanatics to attack Israel from it.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to decline Bidens proposal. Hamas started this war. Forcing Israel to accept a position it does not wish to be in simply condemns the Middle East to years of more of the same.

Jim Lamborn, Doncaster Avoiding escalation

Amin Saikal (Gazan inferno threatens to spread, 22/1) argues that Israels attacks on Hamas, Hezbollah and Iranian operatives in Lebanon and Syria show Israel wants to widen the conflict to draw in Iran. However, he also notes Iran has been relying on its proxies to support Hamas  by which he means attack Israel. So surely what Israel is doing is self-defence to try to stop the conflict widening. Saikal urges a ceasefire in Gaza. That is exactly what Iran and its proxies want  Hamas to retain power so it can continue attacking Israel. To stop the conflict widening, Hamas must be completely defeated.

Danny Samuels, Malvern

Weak support

Labors decision to scrap the Taipan helicopters rather than give them to Ukraine has been followed up by a dithering over whether to donate coal to keep Ukrainians warm after devastating Russian attacks on their power infrastructure. Labor appears to think that we have been generous with our $910 million contribution to date. This works out to a not so generous amount of $35.40 per Australian. Ukraine is fighting for its survival against Russia and allies China, North Korea and Iran. It is a case of a democracy taking on dictatorships that directly or indirectly threaten Australia. Our assistance has been miserly.

Barry Lizmore, Ocean Grove Sharing a link

The Human Rights Watch report on the Russian war on Ukraine notes that Russias repeated attacks on Ukraines energy and other critical infrastructure is making life unsustainable, which is a war crime. Lets hope no ABC employee invites controversy by posting a link to this report.

Di Cousens, Upwey Making conversation

Yes, a persons job doesnt necessarily define them but I disagree with the author of Why we need to stop asking, What do you do for work? (Business Age, 20/1) when meeting someone new. Its an anodyne question that allows a variety of responses including I dont have a job at present which may well lead on to being told the reason why followed by an interesting conversation. I tend to say My name is .... and I work as a ........ which I enjoy, but my main interest is music. Telling someone about yourself first allows them to respond in any way they wish, which is completely non-threatening. Asking about a persons interests, recent adventures, etc. can be taken as far too personal and intrusive for someone youve never met. Id only ask questions like that once weve got over the initial strangeness of speaking with someone you know nothing about. You could also ask What brings you here? or Do you know anyone here, because I dont?  so many possibilities that are not in your face.

Don Jordan, Mount Waverley Different democracies

Your correspondent (Strange democracy, Letters, 22/1) takes issue with the press treating the recent Iowa caucus as if America were a democracy. There are many kinds of democracies. Among them are direct democracies and representative democracies. Australia and the US are of the latter type. One is a parliamentary democracy and the other a presidential democracy. There are numerous other kinds of democracies, including elector and dominant-party democracies. Each style has pros and cons, but none are more correct than others. Also, the writer is incorrect to say that about half of Americans vote in presidential elections. In the 2020 election, 66 per cent of those eligible voted.

Robert Lang, Toorak Back to qualifying

I agree 100 per cent with Neil McMahon (Australian Open, we love you. But you need to calm down, 21/1) the vibe at the AO has definitely changed for the worse for our family. Price gouging on everything, poor crowd behaviour: a man next to me fell asleep and was snoring! Maybe the AO needs to sell separate tickets for those that love tennis so we can actually get a seat on a ground pass and tickets for the party people/influencers who want the bars and the music festival vibes. Next year we will go back for the qualifying rounds where you get great access for $10, no crowds and drama packed matches as players are desperate to get into the main draw.

Jo Stockdale, Belmont

The share economy

Re: Pull of work not what it was, the jury is still out on Atlassians results, and in my view supporting work from home encourages societal selfishness and self interest. Working from the workplace contributes to the economy through payments to childcare, transport and hospitality.

Graeme Montague, South Yarra Hidden charges

It is a mistake to separately charge the cost of servicing a credit card (Why were stung by surcharges, 22/1). It leads to price confusion, distrust and complaints. Often the charge clearly exceeds the actual cost, but the credit card is chosen because it is convenient to pass the blame for its imposition. Businesses have many costs so why not add a cleaning surcharge or a stationery surcharge? Of course not, all costs of running a business make up its total overheads and prices charged should be advertised accordingly.

Morris Trytell, Glen Iris Beauty on the shelf

Re the merits of print, as I run my eyes over my shelves of books, I stop every now and then and look at the spine of a particular book. It brings to mind the story, and the thoughts and emotions reading that book evoked. I remember the age I was at when I first read that book, and how I felt about it. I might even take it down and look through it or even put it aside to re-read. I cant get the same satisfaction from an ebook. Besides the books look good on my shelves (I think). Plus one of them is a dictionary which in itself is pleasurable to peruse besides providing word definitions.

Margaret Collings, Anglesea AND ANOTHER THING Credit: Illustration: Matt Golding

Card fees

If restaurant owners dont want to be hit with surcharges for the use of cards, and consumers dont want to pay it, theres a simple solution. Use cash.

Julie Christensen, Blackburn North Pay by cash and remind business of how much it costs in time and money to handle cash: counting it and the secure transfer of it. Then maybe theyll become grateful for the convenience of customers paying by card.

Gerry Lonergan, Reservoir Politics

Labor went to the last federal election promising to do nothing  and have delivered in spades. Stage 3 tax cuts to remain, and fossil fuel exploitation approvals rampant.

Lawrence Cohen, Blackburn North Perhaps a better reason to boycott Woolworths is because it remains a stakeholder in the Endeavour Group, the largest owner of poker machines in Australia.

Yvonne Bowyer, Surrey Hills Books

Shona Hendley (I might be an alien but I prefer hard copy, 19/1) and your correspondents have overlooked the true reason why we take in printed text more effectively than digital or audio. Its my experience that I can sleep for at least an hour while the audio continues unabated. When I nod off with a book, it drops, and Im instantly awake to mark the page.

Frank Penhalluriack, Caulfield
WAs police force no longer has concerns regarding any potentially injured child in Inglewood after what was potentially a hoax or false alarm emergency call.

They issued a statement on Tuesday asking for the publics help after a mystery child was reported injured outside a Perth school about 5am.

They asked for information or dash-cam vision regarding any people or cars observed in the vicinity of Inglewood Primary School around that time.

St John WA were called in relation to a child being injured outside the school, on Normanby Road, Inglewood, however when police and St John WA personnel attended the scene, no one was located, a spokesman had said.

Around 10am they asked that reporting on the matter cease, without offering further explanation.
DP World has called for industrial reform on Australias waterfront, including shielding stevedores from the effects of bargaining stalemates, as the port operator grapples with ongoing union action over a drawn-out pay dispute.

Representatives of the Dubai-based company appeared at a Senate inquiry into the governments Closing Loopholes legislation on Monday, urging several changes to the bill and warning that recent multi-employer bargaining reforms would drag other stevedores into widespread strikes.

DP World is calling for industrial reform on Australias waterfront. Credit: James Brickwood

DP World, which controls 40 per cent of the nations ports, has claimed its dispute with the Maritime Union of Australia over pay and conditions is costing the economy $84 million a week amid continuing work stoppages and bans on performing certain tasks.

While declining to intervene in the dispute, Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke last week cast doubt on that figure and Labor senator Tony Sheldon on Monday labelled the number dodgy.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, January 22. The European Parliament hosted a round table on "A new look at the prospects of deepening the dialog and cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Parliament" in Strasbourg, Trend reports.

The event was attended by a delegation of Uzbekistan headed by the First Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis (Parliament), Director of the National Center for Human Rights Akmal Saidov, members of the European Parliament (EP), and political advisers from various parliamentary factions.

The roundtable participants discussed the key directions of the reform strategy of the New Uzbekistan, the essence and significance of the updated Constitution of Uzbekistan, and the priorities of multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation between Uzbekistan and the European Union.

Members of the European Parliament, representing various political factions, addressed the event.

Chairman of the EP Delegation for Relations with Central Asia, Czech MP Tomas Zdechovsk, expressed gratitude to the leadership of Uzbekistan for its commitment to strengthening constructive dialog and close, mutually beneficial relations with the European Parliament.

"Uzbekistan is an important partner of the EU in Central Asia. We stand for further strengthening our ties and support the ongoing reforms in the country in the areas of liberalization of the economy, decentralization of power, strengthening the protection of human rights, and good governance," the MP said.

He drew special attention to Uzbekistan's commitment to combating climate change and forming a climate-neutral and green economy. According to the deputy, Uzbekistan's important geostrategic position, its economic, transit, and energy potential, as well as its rich cultural and civilizational heritage, make the country a potential strategic partner of the EU in the region.

During the meeting, special attention was paid to the development of the "Central Asia-EU" cooperation format, which is based on the initiatives of the President of Uzbekistan on the formation of interregional interconnectivity and deepening of trade-economic, investment, and people-to-people contacts.

Within the framework of the round table, a presentation of the book "Uzbekistan: the Pearl of Central Asia" by Swiss author Robert Blum, President of the Diplomatic Circle of Geneva, was organized. According to the author, the aim of the book is to show the world that Uzbekistan has a centuries-long history of statehood, independent development, unique culture, and values that still strengthen the national identity of the country.

The participants of the event supported Uzbekistan's initiative to hold a round table and presentation in the European Parliament. Such meetings allow us to learn more about the culture of the country and the essence of the ongoing reforms directly from those involved in the implementation of the reform strategy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Iran continues negotiations on the restoration of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on its nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions against Iran, spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Kanaani said at the press conference in Tehran on Jan.22, Trend reports.

Kanaani said that last week, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Ali Bagheri Kani, met and held talks with the High Representative of the European Union for foreign policy and security issues, Joseph Borrell, and other officials.

The spokesman added that Irans position in these talks was once again communicated to the European Union officials.

Commenting on the information about the visit of Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Kanani noted that the cooperation between Iran and the IAEA continues. This cooperation will continue within the framework of the agreement. The visit of the Director General of the IAEA to Iran can take place whenever necessary.

Irans nuclear program was the subject of the JCPOA, a deal signed by Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, UK, France, and Germany) on January 16, 2016. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the JCPOA and imposed new sanctions on Iran as of November 2018, affecting its oil exports and freezing its assets abroad. More than 700 banks, companies, and individuals were also targeted by the sanctions.

Iran has been trying to resume talks with the other parties on its nuclear issue and revive the JCPOA. The main goals of Iran are to end the sanctions imposed by the US and Western countries, access funds frozen abroad, and resume its crude oil exports.

Iran claims that its nuclear program is only for peaceful purposes, but the IAEA has reported that Iran has increased its highly enriched uranium by 27 percent in the last three months and now has 4,745 kilograms of enriched uranium. This is 15 times more than the amount allowed for Iran in the JCPOA.

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We here at The Edge even need someone to help us out. If you #froth moshing, we need someone to report on gigs around the country for us. Were talking free tickets to nearly every festie you can think of. Apply here if it sounds like a bit of you.
During their latest gig here in Aotearoa, Peking Duk brought not only their best beats but also an unexpected dance partner to the stage.
Indian Mine Managers Assn conducts seminar on mining





Business Reporter

The two-day seminar on Green Mining Initiatives  Indian Mineral Industry Perspective organised by Indian Mine Managers Association, Nagpur Chapter concluded recently. The chief guest of valedictory function, I D Narayan, CMD, MECL, Nagpur suggested that green mining initiatives are necessary not only for saving environment but also for saving humanity. He stressed on increasing efforts for exploration of minerals as still 70 per cent of area in the country is unexplored. He said that in developed countries it is above 60 per cent.

Satish Jha, Director Technical, CMPDIL, who was guest of honour told the gathering that 50 per cent of future energy needs of the country will be met from coal. Pradip Maheshwari made a novel presentation on regional development and green mining concept. The open forum and valedictory function was conducted by Prof M S Tiwari while the guests were welcomed by R C Sanodia and Satish Gabale proposed the vote of thanks.
Inter-Faith Marriage





By Adv. R. S. Agrawal

IN THE judgement of the case- Maksood Ahmad v. State National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi & Another, pronounced on January 19, 2024 after reserving it earlier, a week ago, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has observed in conclusion at the Delhi High Court in New Delhi, that Without doubt, it is not the continuity of the proceedings which will be abuse of the process of law in this case, but bringing to halt or quashing of the proceedings which will be equivalent to permitting abuse of the process of law by both the parties herein. Thus, in view of the facts and circumstances of the case this Court does not find it a fit case to quash the FIR. One of the quite a few issues the High Court has to answer and deal with in this case has been that as to whether love and consequent marriage after registration of the FIR is or is not always an adequate defence against a case registered under section 376 of IPC for the purpose of quashing the FIR without a trial. This case also presents a situation which points out that there may be some cases involving facts and situations that even the Legislature did not plan for, which will raise questions and issues in a petition that may not have come up or dealt with previously by a court of law.

The present writ petition was filed under Articles 226 and 227 of the Constitution of India read with section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for quashing the FIR in the case registered at the Police Station GTB Enclave, Delhi for offence under sections 376/506 of IPC, centers on the conflicting stories presented by the accused-petitioner Maksood Ahmad and the prosecutrix (respondent-2) -Ms M. The story of the respondent No-2 being of forced assault and the conflicting stand of the petitioner that it was a consensual live-in sexual relationship. The HC has pointed out that there should not be an expectation that as a matter of right, subsequent marriage between the prosecutrix and the accused is sufficient ground for quashing the FIR of every case registered under section 376 (rape) of IPC. Needless to say, every case has to be adjudged strictly on the basis of evidence, conduct of the parties, their age etc., and other material available on record. After considering all material on record and hearing the parties, the HC reached the following conclusions: 1. Allegations against the accused: The allegation s leveled by the respondent-2 Prosecutrix against the petitioner-accused in the FIR were serious in nature, alleging therein that accused, after intoxicating the prosecutrix, had established sexual relations with her without her consent, and also had extended threats to her not to disclose about the incident to anyone.

The same allegations were reiterated by her in the statement recorded under section 164 of CrPC before the Magistrate, as well as in two Supplementary statements recorded under section 161 of CrPC. 2. Misconduct on the part of the prosecutrix: The misconduct of the prosecutrix is writ large as she had lied at every stage and misguided the Police as well as the Courts. The Court acknowledges the present case as one marked by mala fide intentions on the part of the prosecutrix, Ms M, who failed to disclose before the Courts and the investigating authorities, the factum of her marriage to the accused Maksood, for almost a month after the registration of FIR. Despite attending court proceedings and recording statements, she consistently omitted the crucial information about her conversion and marriage. The turning point came during the hearing on December20, 2022, when Ms M admitted to filing a false FIR against the accused and for misleading the Courts. Subsequently, during the adjudication of the application for regular bail on February 25, 2023, she expressed a desire to drop further proceedings against the accused, further emphasising her inconsistent and misleading conduct throughout the investigation and court proceedings. 3. Simultaneously, the conduct of the accused also raises questions, given the delay in revealing the marriage and the compromise deed executed in the year 2012, before the Sessions Court.

The failure of the accused to disclose these vital facts during the application for anticipatory bail reflects transparency on his part. This HC, thus, noted that both parties had not approached the Courts with clean hands, with each contributing to the confusion and complicating the legal proceedings. 4. Previous Marriage, compromise and the Quashing: The parties herein base their pleas for quashing solely on the ground of compromise that they have entered into a marital union. Before averting to this ground, it is crucial to emphasise that quashing especially in cases falling under section 376 of IPC, cannot be considered a standard practice. Even if this HC entertains the possibility of a settlement, it must scrutinize whether the compromise is such and pertains to the marital aspect between the parties, that it warrants he quashing of FIR. Herein lies a critical concern-the prosecutrix was already married to her first husband. The investigation of the case reveals that the prosecutrix has not taken divorce from her previous husband and neither she has filed any document which establishes that she is divorced from her first husband, even though she mentions in her complaint that she was a divorcee, thus casting doubt on the legality of the marriage solemnised between the accused and the prosecutrix itself. This raises suspicion about the validity of the marriage between the prosecutrix and the accused, as it appears from the record that the prosecutrix is still married to her previous husband, and therefore, she cannot enter into a second marriage without divorcing her previous husband.

Thus, this Court is of the opinion that whether the marriage solemnised between the prosecutrix and the accused vide the Nikahnama of October 28, 2022, as per Muslim rites and customs, is a valid marriage or not, is a question in itself that still remains unanswered at this stage which is sought to be made a ground for quashing. 5. Suspicious circumstances surrounding the marriage of prosecutrix and accused: As it could not be ascertained at this stage as to whether the religious conversion in this case was with a bona fide intent to only marry the prosecutrix or to clandestinely project to the prosecutrix that now she was married to the accused and now both of them could approach the courts for seeking bail and for quashing of the FIR. According to the HC, without a doubt sexual violence against a woman should invite no tolerance. At the same time manipulating the system by the parties to a case under section 376 of IPC would equally need to be dealt with a stern hand and serious efforts should be made to address and remedy failings within the criminal justice System and through our society. The arguments advanced before the High Court could not prima facie prove that the contention of compromise on the basis of marriage is genuine or not or it is only for getting FIR quashed will be clear only during trial and passage of time. In view of this the Delhi High Court has dismissed the petition declining to quash the FIR.
Opposition MLAs should help in implementing Govt schemes: Shah





Staff Reporter

RAIPUR,

Union Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Cooperation, Amit Shah, emphasised the role of the Opposition in criticising the government while also urging them to actively contribute to implementing government schemes for the benefit of the people. Speaking at the conclusion of a two-day orientation programme for newly-elected MLAs in Chhattisgarh, Shah highlighted the importance of a two-way system where both ruling and opposition members work towards effective governance. Addressing the newly-elected MLAs, Amit Shah emphasised that opposition parties should not only raise concerns about the government, but also actively participate in bringing government schemes to the grass-root level. He stressed the significance of MLAs from the ruling party in the implementation of government schemes and encouraged them to contribute to the formulation of new initiatives.

According to Shah, this collaborative approach is essential for achieving optimal administration. Shah shared his extensive political experiences with the MLAs and provided insights on how to become successful and effective representatives. He emphasised the importance of maintaining lively contact with voters, having a thorough understanding of rules and procedures, employing tact, using a soft-spoken approach in the legislative house, and not compromising on ideological principles. Amit Shah expressed the view that respect can be earned through effective engagement with constituents and adherence to principles. He urged MLAs to focus on their responsibilities to the region, party, and the progress of the state. Shah highlighted the necessity of legislators actively participating in the legislative process, stating that making laws is a crucial function of the Legislative Assembly. Shah also addressed the need for positive interactions between public representatives and officials, suggesting that conflicts should be resolved through discussions based on rules and procedures.

Outlining qualities of a good MLA the home minister said that sensitivity, promptness, efficiency, eagerness, and curiosity are the essence. As a symbolic gesture, Amit Shah planted a Rudraksh sapling in the Legislative Assembly premises. The event also featured lectures by former Minister Ajay Chandrakar, former Assembly Speaker Prem Prakash Pandey, and former Assembly Speaker Dharamlal Kaushik. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Leader of Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Brijmohan Agrawal.
US President has become highly unpopular





By John Wojcik

THE Republican nominee for the presidency will be the 90-times-indicted rapist Donald Trump unless court rulings, guilty verdicts, or acts of God prevent that from happening. Depending upon who you believe, either the anti-MAGA majority will come through again and Biden will win or Trump himself could actually end up re-entering the White House. One things for sure: Neither candidate will get there without a determined electorate marching to the polls on their behalf. If we listen to the White House, Trump has been beaten often before and it will happen again. They have a point, of course, but they ignore much of what has been behind many of the anti-Trump victoriesthe struggles of labour and all its allies for a progressive peoples agenda. It is those mass struggles that are reflected in all the initial victories for the people that took place in the Biden administration. Those victories by the movements and Bidens willingness to carry them out, together with Democratic majorities in the Senate and the House, resulted in many real, tangible improvements in the daily lives of Americans. As many of those things were accomplished, however, the Biden administration began to shoot itself in the foot with a series of horrific foreign policy initiatives.

A combination of Cold Warrior instincts and his own extreme Russophobia resulted in Biden listening to those who told him he should not respond positively to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who wanted assurances that the US would not push for Ukraines entrance into NATO. There is no way to tell for sure but that, and a few other reasonable moves by US, might have prevented Putin from launching his invasion of Ukraine. Although the invasion cannot be justified regardless, one cannot deny that the Biden administration, rather than cooling tensions before it happened, actually made things worse. At the end of last year, we learned that an end to the war was possible in March 2022, one month after the invasion of Ukraine began. High-ranking members of the German military and Russian and Ukrainian diplomats who participated in the talks disseminated the terms of the deal to the press in Europe. It was mostly ignored in the US. Big foreign policy mistake number one for the Biden administration was its decision to enlist the UK and NATO in sabotaging the deal. Biden has never really supported peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, even though, as this is written, peace talks between them are happening. The leading generals on both sides are negotiating prisoner release deals, as they have in the past, but without the support of Biden or even Ukraines President Zelenskyy, who has become increasingly willing to march in lockstep with the Biden administration.

As he continued his disastrous Ukraine policy, Biden moved on to back a war by Israel on the people of Gaza. His support for the Israeli bombing of Gaza, with its genocidal results, is shocking to so many opposed to how they see Trump but who have seen Biden as a decent human being. Biden, despite protestations about backing humanitarian aid to Gaza, has continued the flow into Gaza, not of medicine, food, and water, but of deadly weapons and bombs used by Israel. The US weapons have already been used to kill tens of thousands of Palestinians. He has opened the door to Republicans who are temporarily opportunistically blocking more weapons for Israel until they get draconian immigration policies on the Southern border. Bidens view of his foreign policy responsibilities is that it is ok for him to include bullying, threats, sanctions, and even bombings to protect so-called American interests abroad. On another front, the President has a youth problem that has nothing to do with his own age. Millions of youth are angry about the war on Gaza, and he needs them if he is to win the election in November. Large Arab-American voting blocks in the key swing state, Michigan, are no small problem, either.

There are reports of a fight within the Biden administration, with many, including the President himself, thinking that he has to stay the course on his foreign policy in order to win a second term. Others say this is not the case, and there are reports that some fundraisers are saying some givers are thinking about holding back on their money. At this point, however, Biden has a lot more money stockpiled than anyone else. It would be best for him, the nation, and the world if he reversed his disastrous policies. Reversal would boost the fight against fascists, including Trump, in the elections in November. Regardless of what the Biden administration does, however, millions in America who constitute the anti-MAGA and anti-fascist majority have our work cut out for us between now and November. Its tough when the alternative to an open fascist is a President who pursues a foreign policy unbecoming of a democracy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. The will of Iran and Pakistan to resume their ambassadorial activities was expressed by Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian Foreign Ministrys spokesperson, at a press conference in Tehran today, Trend reports.

Kanaani noted that Iran and Pakistan have deep bonds of friendship and collaboration. He said that both countries will join forces to deal with the common threats they face.

According to him, Iran and Pakistan have a friendly, warm, and brotherly relationship. They declare their mutual respect for each others territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The spokesman also stated that the two countries have shared security and a shared foe in terrorism. He added that they have the same position on fighting terrorism and that the recent events will not harm their strong ties.

On January 16, Iran fired missiles at certain positions in Pakistan. As a result, two children were killed and three people were injured. Following this, the Pakistani government recalled its ambassador to Iran and asked the Iranian ambassador not to visit Pakistan. All activities between the two countries are suspended.

On January 17, Pakistan attacked certain positions in Iran. As a result, 10 people died.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Iran and Pakistan have reached an agreement to restore their ambassadors by January 26, 2024, as announced by a joint statement from their foreign ministries, Trend reports.

The statement also states that Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has invited his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir Abdollahian to visit Pakistan on January 29.

On January 16, Iran fired missiles at certain positions in Pakistan. As a result, two children were killed and three people were injured. Following this, the Pakistani government recalled its ambassador to Iran and asked the Iranian ambassador not to visit Pakistan. All activities between the two countries are suspended.

On January 17, Pakistan attacked certain positions of Iran. As a result, 10 people died.

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Follow the author on X (Twitter):@BaghishovElnur
IWC Brand Ambassador and Laax Open 2024 silver winner Eileen Gu wears an IWC Pilots Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition Lake Tahoe at the Laax Open 2024 in Switzerland, Europes most important snowboard and freeski freestyle event

The Laax Open 2024 marked Eileens first slopestyle competition since the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. While Eileen has not competed in a slopestyle competition since Beijing, she has won four out of four halfpipe competitions in the last 18 months - most of them in dominant fashion.

Eileen Gu  IWC Schaffhausen

On the slopes, Eileen wore the Pilots Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition Lake Tahoe (Ref. IW389105) powered by the IWC-manufactured 69380 calibre. The 44.5-millimetre case is made from hard and scratch-resistant white ceramic and fitted with a white rubber strap. The sleek design is completed with a pitch-black dial, black hands with white Super-LumiNova, and a stainless-steel crown, pushers, and case back ring.

Pilots Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition Lake Tahoe  IWC Schaffhausen

The IWC Lake Tahoe Edition holds a special place in Eileens heart: The Pilots Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition Lake Tahoe was the watch Eileen Gu wore for her first IWC photoshoot after she was made a brand ambassador for the Schaffhausen-based watch manufacturer in 2021. The design is inspired by the wintry landscape around the freshwater Lake Tahoe, where Eileen first skied as a little girl. In November 2023, Eileen Gu and IWC Schaffhausen teamed up to donate Eileens Lake Tahoe Edition at the Laureus Chairty Night auction in Zurich, Switzerland.
Within five weeks, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) is expected to have a satellite location at the Exuma Foundation in George Town. Vincent A. Adderley, of D.C. Construction, is expected to complete the work, paving the way for on-the-ground technical and vocational training across several trade areas. Pictured from left is BTVI Board Director Ann Rolle; Deputy Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for The Exumas and Ragged Island Chester Cooper; BTVIs Acting President Veronica Collie, and contractor Vincent A. Adderley.
It's quite convenient to store minced meat in the freezer. You can quickly prepare a variety of dishes from such a preparation. But you need to remember that the quality of the dish and its taste directly depends on the defrosting technology.

ADVERTISIMENT

Raw meat is a source of bacterial growth if it has not been processed properly, and this can cause great harm to the body. That's why it's worth figuring out how to safely prepare the product for consumption.

The well-known American publication INSIDER has described 3 safe ways to defrost minced meat.

1. Defrosting in the refrigerator

This method is the safest. This is because the meat is outside the temperature range of 40 - 140 degrees, which is a danger zone.

The right technology

1. Put the bag of minced meat in a large plate.

2. Put the dishes on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator.

3. Leave for at least 24 hours.

4. If you do not use all of the product at once, you can put the leftovers in the freezer.

ADVERTISIMENT

2. In cold water

This method is suitable if you don't have a lot of time.

The correct technology

1. Make sure the minced meat is sealed.

2. Put the bag in a sink or large bowl.

3. Cover with cold water.

4. Put a load on top - this will ensure the desired temperature and uniformity of defrosting.

5. Leave for 20-30 minutes. If ice crystals are still present, leave for a while longer.

6. This meat should be cooked immediately.

3. In the microwave

ADVERTISIMENT

This method is the fastest. However, since the meat is exposed to high temperatures, it can be dangerous to store it in the refrigerator for further cooking. Therefore, such meat should also be cooked immediately at a temperature of at least 160 degrees.

The right technology

1. Remove all packaging.

2. Put the meat on a plate.

3. You can use the defrosting options of the microwave oven or set it to 50% power for two to three minutes.
Over the past few days, Ukraine has launched a series of successful drone strikes against military targets in the Leningrad and Tula regions of the Russian Federation. They have once again proved that the aggressor country is poorly covered by air defense, although each time it claims to have "successfully repelled" such attacks.

ADVERTISIMENT

Repeated such strikes could disable Russian short-range air defense systems on the expected routes of UAVs. This was pointed out by analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

They recalled how on the night of January 20-21, Ukrainian drones hit the Shcheglovsky Val plant in Tula, as well as the Novatek plant and gas terminal near the port of Ust-Luga in the Leningrad region of the Russian Federation.

The Tula plant produces the Pantsir-S and Pantsir-S1 air defense systems, while the Ust-Luga facility processes stable gas condensate into light and heavy oil, diesel fuel, kerosene, and naval fuel.

The Russians themselves posted footage of the explosions in these settlements online, commenting that they were the result of successful Ukrainian strikes. Geolocation footage published on January 20 also showed explosions over Smolensk, indicating possible Ukrainian strikes in the area.

ADVERTISIMENT

However, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that their air defense system "destroyed five drones" over the Tula, Orel and Smolensk regions. Prior to that, Russian authorities had made similar claims about "repelling" several other attacks, but Ukraine confirmed that on January 18, Ukrainian forces had successfully drone strikes on an oil terminal in St. Petersburg, Leningrad Oblast, and on January 19, on an oil depot in Klinets, Bryansk Oblast, and a gunpowder plant in Tambov Oblast.

Against this backdrop, Russian insider sources acknowledged that the air defense cover over the Leningrad region is poor. According to them, it is most likely "not designed to protect against attacks from the south."

The analysts suggested that the air defense systems in the Leningrad region are most likely positioned to repel attacks from the northwest and west, as Russia has historically built its air defense in the area to defend against hypothetical NATO attacks.

ADVERTISIMENT

"The Russian military is currently reforming the Leningrad Military District (LMD) with the expressed intention of preparing for a potential future conventional war against NATO and may be redeploying military assets to position them along the border with NATO member states," ISW noted.

It is believed that Ukrainian strikes in the Leningrad region could prompt Russian forces to move short-range air defense systems along expected UAV flight routes to protect potential targets of strategic importance.

However, Russian forces using short-range systems such as the Pantsyr will likely not be able to cover all important potential targets in Leningrad and other regions without deploying additional systems to those areas.

ADVERTISIMENT

"And the ongoing strikes in Russia's deep rear could thus increase the overall pressure on Russian air defense," the analysts concluded.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, the latest UAV strikes on targets in the Leningrad and Bryansk regions of the Russian Federation are distinguished by several factors, the main one being the expansion of geography. Analysts explained what makes these drone attacks on Russian territory unique and what to expect in the near future.

Only verifiedinformation is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Powerful statement from CM Partisan Central forces ?

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This is a powerful statement but it is still not clear whether this was said out of conviction or out of the growing pressure from the different but powerful civil society organisations. What however is clear is that this is the first time that Chief Minister N Biren has gone public with the proclamation that the Centre has been asked to withdraw partisan Central forces, which have come to be increasingly seen as molly coddling the Kuki militants and the CSOs which have openly declared a war against Manipur. Or could it be a case of the Chief Minister having received some encouraging signs from New Delhi to open up against the conduct of the Central security force personnel, particularly the Assam Rifles ? Important questions and the very fact that these posers are being raised here should reflect the reality. It is not without reason why the fingers of accusation have been raised against the Central security personnel, particularly the Assam Rifles. One can still recall an instance of the State police engaged in a stand off with Assam Rifles personnel after their vehicle was blocked ostensibly while in pursuit of some Kuki militants. Who or which organisation is best placed to answer how sophisticated arms like sniper rifles came into the hands of Kuki militants ? How well placed are the Kuki militants to attack State security personnel with sophisticated arms at Moreh ? Who is tasked with the job of guarding the Indo-Myanmar border ? The answers to these should tell its own story, and this is where the announcement of the Chief Minister that the Centre has been asked to withdraw partisan Central forces should be seen and understood. How did Kuki militants manage to cross the so called buffer zone sometime in the earlier part of the ongoing conflict and kill sleeping villagers, including a father-son duo at Bishnupur district ? Whose idea was it to draw the buffer zones ? Who is tasked with the law and order subject in the hills ? The very fact that these questions are being raised right now should tell its own story and the public announcement of the Chief Minister should be seen and understood in the context of the questions raised right now. Compulsion of geo-politics as understood within the context of the growing influence of China over Myanmar ? And make Manipur the price to be paid ? Things certainly does not look good at all, but this should not and cannot justify the price that Manipur has had to pay.

Manipur has reasons to be angry. May 3, 2023 to January 23, 2024 and it is already more than 8 months since the violence erupted in all its ugliness. Over 200 people have been killed on either side, thousands have been rendered homeless, hundreds of houses have been levelled to the ground and many more are still missing. Yet Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not deemed it proper to even utter a word, save for the anguish he expressed when the video clip of two girls being paraded in the nude went viral on the social media. This is one reason for the growing disenchantment with the BJP led Government at Imphal and the mounting pressure on the Chief Minister and the BJP Ministers and MLAs can only be imagined. Yet it was no one less than Union Home Minister Amit Shah who informed Parliament that the Chief Minister is doing what ought to be done. One hopes it is with this belief and conviction that Delhi takes the proclamation of the Chief Minister against the Central security forces that they are partisan in the present conflict. There has to be a reason why there is a growing distrust between the people of Manipur and the Central security personnel and any Government worth its salt should have studied this from the very beginning. Why is there the general perception that the Central security forces, particularly the Assam Rifles has given the long rope to the Kuki militants ? How is it that sophisticated weapons such as sniper rifles are in the possession of Kuki militants ? Or should one buy the story of village volunteers and believe that they can wield a sniper rifle ? What explains the use of sophisticated weapons such as RPGs against the State security personnel at Moreh ? The Chief Minister has spoken and one hopes it does not end there but is taken forward.
For the American space agency NASA, 2024 almost went wrong from the very first month. First, problems prevented the Peregrine One (built by a private company with NASA funding) from landing on the moon, and now the Ingenuity Martian helicopter almost said "goodbye" to its developers... but fortunately, everything turned out okay.

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The agency announced the restoration of the signal on its page on the X social network (formerly known as Twitter). This is not the first time the agency has lost contact with a helicopter that has long since overfulfilled its mission.

For a long two days, NASA's Mars explorers on Earth believed they had most likely lost the Ingenuity Mars helicopter forever.

Communication was lost on Saturday during a routine 72nd flight. On that day, Ingenuity reported that it had climbed to an altitude of 12 meters and had begun its descent when suddenly, communication was completely lost.

The helicopter is known to keep in touch with Earth via the Perseverance rover. Previously, there have been situations where an obstacle (a hill or something similar) has appeared between the two and the connection between the robots has been lost. So the first thought of the researchers was that something similar had happened. However, an analysis of the situation showed that the helicopter took off and landed in the same place, so the obstacle could not have appeared out of nowhere.

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For two days, the fate of the vehicle remained unknown, but eventually communication was restored. NASA reported "good news," noting that thanks to instructions sent to the rover, communication with the helicopter was restored.

NASA did not specify what exactly happened and why the connection was lost. Probably because the situation is still unclear. The agency said in a statement that "the team is studying new data to better understand the unexpected loss of communication."

Although Earth-based researchers certainly don't want to say goodbye to Ingenuity even after its 72nd flight, it's worth noting that it has already done much more than expected. This helicopter is actually a prototype of a model that NASA plans to produce in the future. So when it was sent to the red planet in February 2021, it was expected to make only five test flights to demonstrate the revolutionary technology in action.

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Instead, the helicopter has already made 72 flights in the Mars atmosphere, lasting 128 minutes. During this time, it traveled a whopping 17.7 km above the planet.

It is worth adding that Ingenuity has repeatedly made researchers nervous. In particular, in June, they failed to establish communication with it for 63 days.

Subscribe to theOBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
Aiming to provide easy access to hearing dates and other details, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation has decided to make cause lists and hearing orders available on its website. As announced by the KMC mayor, Firhad Hakim, such details would soon be provided on the website of the civic body under the Common Hearing programme. Whatever hearings are done including those of the Building Department, Commissioner and Assessment would now be provided on the website.

At times there are claims from people that the date of hearing was not made known or the order was not received by them. To address such issues, these details would now be made available online, the way it is done in High Court. On the website, history, case numbers and other details like orders and dates would be available, said Mr Hakim. Meanwhile, the municipal corporation is mulling over plans to enhance its potable water supply in various pockets, particularly in the added areas.

According to the mayor, the civic body has spent Rs 700 crores on various initiatives of upgradation of water treatment system including changing of old pipelines, booster pumping stations and jacketing, Apart from this, at Maheshtala, a plant is to be commissioned in the month of February. The civic body has also carried out an intensive desilting of drains, clearing around 2000 MT in the process.

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After a year of allegations by the US-based short-seller Hindenburg Research of fraud and brazen stock price manipulation, the Adani Group has emerged stronger on some measures of business fundamentals.

Business tycoon Gautam Adanis ports-to-power empire has trimmed debt, pared founders share pledges, won new backers from the US to the Middle East, bagged landmark projects and has begun to communicate more often with investors and lenders.

The group is also building a new airport for Mumbai, and redeveloping the citys sprawling Dharavi slum.

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While Adani stocks have risen over USD90 billion from last years low, they remain about USD60 billion short of their pre-Hindenburg peak.

Investors are now of the belief that the Adani empire is once again on an ascent.

The recent Supreme Court verdict rejecting appeals for a special investigation, new marquee investors and the US agency funding have all given greater comfort to both institutional and retail investors.

For the conglomerate, much of the resilience comes from its sprawling infrastructure empire ranging from port terminals, power lines, airports, data centers, solar parks and cement plants.

Hindenburgs report eroded tens of billions in market value and left the founders vulnerable to margin calls on their pledged shares. Adani and his family prepaid USD2.15 billion and have drastically reduced their pledged holdings.

Currently, the combined market value of 10 listed Adani companies is at about USD175 billion, a jump of around 112 per cent from the record low of USD82 billion in February last year after the short-seller report.

Recently, the exchange data compiled by Bloomberg shows that individual holdings in nine of the groups 10 stocks at the end of December are higher than they were before the short-sellers attack on the conglomerate.

The Supreme Court had said there were no grounds for taking away the investigation of the Adani group of companies in the Hindenburg report from the markets regulator.

It granted Sebi three months to complete the investigation of two pending matters and also refused to interfere in the agencys matter.

The CJI-led bench refused to nix SEBIs FPI regulations, saying courts cannot enter into the domain of regulatory regime. The apex court also refused to interfere with SEBIs probe into the episode and declined to set up a SIT.
Various temples at Reliance premises across the country are celebrating with a special puja the day of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla. These include temples in Reliance facilities such as in Mumbai, Jamnagar, Dahej, Nagothane, Hazira, Silvassa, Halol, Hoshiarpur, Nagpur, Shahdol, Kakinada and various other locations.

All the members of the Ambani family are present personally at Ayodhya to witness this once in an era event.

Lord Ram is arriving today, January 22nd will be Ram Diwali for the entire country,  said Mukesh Ambani.

It is a historic day, said Nita Ambani as she joined in the Pran Pratishtha celebrations.

Akash Ambani said, This day will be written in the pages of history, we are happy to be here.

Reliance Industries is one of the first private organisations in India to declare a holiday on 22nd January to enable the lakhs of Reliance colleagues and families to celebrate and join the devotional Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shir Ram Lala.

In addition, Reliance Jio and Reliance Retail have activated several special services for the benefit of Ram bhakts, devotees and pilgrims.

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In Ayodhya, Jio has set up additional towers for enhanced and seamless network, Multiple Cells on Wheels (CoWs) placed across key locations for ubiquitous connectivity, charging stations set up across key paths to help visitors charge their devices constantly. (Some of these charging stations will be permanent installations in Ayodhya), support for setting up May I Help You desks at important locations.

In collaboration with Doordarshan, Live Telecast and real-time updates of Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony have been made available on JioTV, JioTV+ and JioNews.

JioTV is providing customers with comprehensive details about the ceremony, including rituals, traditions, and cultural significance. This exclusive content will deepen the audiences understanding and appreciation of this auspicious occasion.

JioTV and JioNews will feature expert comments and analysis, offering viewers unique insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratisthan.

Reliance Retail is offering water to visitors, pilgrims, and commuters across the city through specially set up kiosks at important locations. Branding of Campa and activations set to delight consumers and to bring to consumer the great Indian taste during the mega event.

Consumer products division has beautified a section of the main path leading to the Ram Mandir with thematic murals from the Ramayana.

Besides, it is distributing diyas to all visitors to the Smart Bazaar and Smart Point stores in Ayodhya, seva for pilgrims / devotees by distributing tea at kiosks set up outside the stores in Ayodhya.

Ayodhya is set to go down in history with the much-awaited Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple on Monday.

The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram in the newly built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya will be held at around noon. Earlier in October, 2023. The ceremonial journey leading up to the Pran Pratishtha included a seven-day ritual that commenced on January 16, 2024.

Earlier, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The ceremony will be attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country. People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities will also attend the ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address this gathering on the occasion.

The Prime Minister will interact with workers associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. Prime Minister will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored. He will also perform Pooja and Darshan at this restored temple.

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed.
The Delhi unit of the Congress on Monday staged a protest over the alleged attack on Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra-led by party leader Rahul Gandhi by BJP workers in Assam.

Members of the Congress under the leadership of its Delhi president Arvinder Singh Lovely held the demonstration at the gate of the partys office after they were stopped by the police personnel from marching towards the BJP headquarters. They shouted slogans while holding aloft placards against the ruling dispensation.

Addressing the members of the party, Lovely said, The attack on the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra by the BJP goons in Assam points towards BJPs restlessness and fear at the tremendous response Rahul Gandhis Nyay Yatra was receiving as it was raising the voice of the people.

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Congress follows the non-violent path shown by father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi, and never indulges in the politics of vendetta, he said.

Asserting that the party is waging an ideological battle, Lovely said, Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was to get justice for women, youth, workers, farmers and for bhagidari. Congress will not be browbeaten by the high-handed behavior by the BJP.

Notably,the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra which kicked off from Manipurs Imphal on January 14, is currently in Meghalaya.
Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday participated in the ongoing 9-day long Ramkatha in Kidwai Nagar area of his Assembly constituency  New Delhi.

On Sunday, the Sundarkand recitation took place. The Ramkatha will conclude on Monday with the bhandara.

The Chief Minister performed puja and offered prayer to Lord Ram, wishing Delhiites peace, prosperity, and development.

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The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is organizing Bhandaras at various locations in Delhi on Monday.

Earlier on January 16, Sundarkand recitations took place at several places in Delhi including a recitation in Rohini where Kejriwal participated with his family.

The Chief Minister appealed to Delhiites to avail themselves of Delhi governments scheme of facilitating free pilgrimages for the senior citizens.
People in the national capital celebrated the consecration (pran-pratishtha ) ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya by lighting diyas in their homes like Deepawali on Monday evening.

Devotees visited temples in the city. The temples were decorated with diyas to celebrate the day.

Buildings, apartments and homes in the city were decked up with diyas with people bursting crackers to mark the occasion.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi lit Ram Jyoti diyas at his residence in Delhi to celebrate the occasion.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi shared pictures of him lighting Ram Jyoti.

Earlier, in a post on X, Modi urged citizens to light the Ram Jyoti on the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha ceremony and welcome Shri Ram Lalla.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with his family lit Ram Jyoti diyas to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha in the national capital while BJP national president JP Nadda along with his family lit oil lamps at his residence in Delhi.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi attended Deepotsav at Connaught Place to celebrate the day.

Lekhi said: Look at the enthusiasm of people. When Lord Rama returned from vanvaas after 14 years, it was Diwali but now he has returned after 500 years so this is Maha Diwali.
Contrary to the Congress partys stand, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Monday attended the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir temple at Ayodhya.

Sharing his photo on social media platform, he maintained that he visited the temple following putra dharam (sons duty) as being a son of former erstwhile King of Rampur Bushahr and former six- time CM Virbhadra Singh, an invite was sent to his family.

He being the titular king of Rampur Bushahr, it was now his duty to obey as a son.

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This comes despite the party high commands decision to skip the consecration of the temple invite.

Having been declared as a state guest by the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government, he arrived in Lucknow by flight on Sunday.

Singh had initially declared openly on social platforms terming it as a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit the designated ceremony by mentioning of having received an invite as a minister.

However, he took a U-turn, changing his stand and statement to visit the temple on any other date post consecration of the temple, after the high command decided not to accept the invite.

Much to the surprise on Monday, the 34-year old minister defied his party stand and visited the temple. He also said that he had a courtesy meeting with his counterpart PWD Minister of Uttar Pradesh Jitin Prasad.

This was aimed to further improve the work of his PWD department in Himachal Pradesh and efforts would be made to adopt new technologies from Uttar Pradesh, to enhance the quality of PMGSY-3 and NABARD road works.
On the evening of January 22, the Russian army shelled Kupyansk, Kharkiv region, with artillery. One civilian was killed and another was injured.

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The head of the regional state administration, Oleh Syniehubov, reported the shelling on his Telegram channel at 17:05 on Monday."One person was killed... We also know about a 66-year-old man who was wounded," the official said.

A civilian car caught fire, an apartment building and a store were damaged as a result of the shelling.

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The State Emergency Service of Ukraine said that the occupiers struck the town at around 16:00. The deceased was the driver of a car that caught fire due to Russian shelling.

"The driver of the car died on the spot. Another man was injured," the SES press service wrote.

As previously reported by OBOZ.UA:

- On January 21, the Russian Ministry of Defense boasted of the "liberation" of Krokhmalne, Kharkiv region. The head of the public relations service of the Land Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Volodymyr Fitio confirmed the capture of the settlement by the enemy: the small village, where about 50 people lived, was wiped out by the invaders. The military also called the loss of positions in Krokhmalne a "temporary phenomenon."

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- Ivan Tymochko, the head of the Army Reserves Council, said that the withdrawal from Krokhmalne was planned, it was a "normal situation" when one of the warring parties tries to push the other one back.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
India and Kyrgyzstan on Monday began the 11th edition of their joint military exercise KHANJAR, aimed at countering terrorism and extremism.

The two-week exercise commenced this morning at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. It is an annual event conducted alternatively in both the countries.

The Indian Army contingent comprising 20 personnel is being represented by troops from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and the Kyrgyzstan contingent comprising 20 personnel is represented by Scorpion Brigade.

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Troops from the two countries will exchange experiences and best practices in Counter Terrorism and Special Forces Operations in Built-up Area and Mountainous Terrain under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The exercise will emphasise on developing special forces skills, advanced techniques of insertion and extraction.

The exercise will provide an opportunity for both sides to fortify defence ties while addressing common concerns of international terrorism and extremism. The exercise will also provide an opportunity to showcase capabilities of cutting edge indigenous defence equipment besides achieving shared security objectives and foster bilateral relations, the Ministry of Defence said.
As the new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the newly constructed temple in Ayodhya on Monday amid grand celebrations, many fondly remember Keralite ICS officer, Kandankalathil Karunakaran Nair (KK Nair), who has been described as the unsung hero of the Ram Mandir movement.

Alappuzha native KK Nair was serving as Faizabad District Magistrate in 1949 December when Ram Lalla idols were placed at the Babri Masjid. Even as the then Prime Minister Jawharlal Nehru gave instructions to remove the idols, Nair did not oblige citing the chances of communal tension.

He had tasked Guru Datt Singh, an official in the district administration, to investigate the Ayodhya issue and submit a report. Permission was granted to the Hindus to visit the structure and offer pujas based on his report. However, the issue took a dramatic turn on December 23, when an idol was installed there.

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The then Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister GB Pant and Nehru had directed the district administration to remove the idol from the premises forcibly. However, Nair refused to implement the order citing possibilities of a riot.

Though Nair was suspended from service, he was reinstated following a favourable court order. But he resigned from the job and started practising as a lawyer in the Allahabad High Court.

Taking the fight for Ram Mandir forward, KK Nair and his family joined the Jana Sangh. In 1952, his wife Sakunatala Nair contested on the Jana Sangh ticket and became a member of Uttar Pradesh Assembly.in 1962, both KK Nair and his wife became members of the 4th Lok Sabha, winning Bahraich and Kaiserganj constituencies respectively.

Born on September 11, 1907, KK Nair began his life from Kuttanad, a small village in Alappuzha, Kerala. After completing his education in Kerala, he went to England for higher studies and cleared the ICS exam at the age of 21. He joined as a civil servant in Uttar Pradesh in 1945 and became Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate of Faizabad on June 1, 1949. He died on September 7, 1977.

As an archaeologist, I cant say K K Nair did the right thing by supporting the Ram temple cause. But his decision to support the worship of Ram Lalla on the disputed structure premises was a turning point. I could understand his popularity during my visit to Ayodhya in 1977. People worshipped him like a saint and I found his picture on the walls of many houses. There is also a colony named after him there, said archaeologist K K Muhammed. People in and around Faizabad fondly called him Nair Saheb.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was on Monday restricted from entering Batadrava Than, the birthplace of Vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva, in Assam during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

Hitting out at the BJP-led Assam government, the Congress alleged that the Bordowa Than Management Committee was pressured by Chief Minister Himanta Sarma, who, in turn, was instructed from Delhi, to stop the Gandhi scion.

Taking to X, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said Chronology Samajhiye (Understand the chronology).

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Initially, the head of the Batadrava Shrine had welcomed Gandhis visit. The local Congress MLA Shibhomani Barua and another MLA Rana Goswami had met the Bordowa Than Satradhikar on January 11, informing him of Rahul Gandhis intention to spend a few minutes during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on January 22nd, coinciding with the Pran Pratishtha day of Lord Ram in Ayodhya.

On the evening of January 20th, the Assam CM suddenly announced that Rahul Gandhi could not visit Bordowa Than on the morning of January 22nd and could only do so after 3 pm the same day, he said in a detailed post.

On the morning of January 21st, the Satradhikar stated that due to the expected large crowds at the Than on the morning of January 22nd, Rahul Gandhi should visit the holy place after 3 pm, Ramesh added.

After negotiations, only the local MPs and MLAs, including Cong MP Gaurav Gogoi, were allowed to visit Bordowa Than.

Ramesh criticized this as unprecedented, arguing that elected representatives should have the freedom to move about in their constituencies without such restrictions.

The Gandhi scion questioned the motives behind the development, rhetorically asking what crime he had committed to be barred from visiting the temple.

He also sat on a dharna at the site along with the party workers.

We want to visit the temple (Batadrava Than). What crime have I committed that I cannot visit the temple? he asked. Confronting a security official on-site, he further inquired, What is the issue, brother? Can I go and see the barricades? What mistake have I made that I am not allowed inside the temple?

The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by Gandhi, is on its Assam leg, aiming to unite the country and address issues of justice.
On the eve of the consecration or Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on January 22, President Droupadi Murmu in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that it is the good fortune of everyone in India to witness the starting of a new cycle of revival of the nation.

The President said that in the atmosphere of nationwide celebrations associated with the inauguration of the grand temple of Lord Ram in Ayodhya Dham, the free expression of the eternal soul of India is visible.

It is the good fortune of all of us that we are witnessing the beginning of a new cycle of revival of our nation, she said.

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The President further said the universal values like courage, compassion and unwavering devotion to duty that were enshrined by Lord Ram can be spread to the people through this grand temple.

Lord Ram embodies the best dimensions of our cultural and spiritual heritage. He represents the ideal of good constantly fighting against evil, she said.

Many chapters of our national history have been influenced by the life and principles of Lord Ram and the ideals of Ram Katha have inspired the nation builders, the President said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday opened a grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. The prime minister, accompanied by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, performed rituals of pran-pratishtha for the idol of Ram Lalla.

He said the inauguration of the Ram temple is a dawn of new era for India. He also apologised to Lord Ram for the delay in building the temple.

Reacting to the development, Pakistan said the consecration ceremony of the temple on the site where once stood a 16th century mosque is indicative of growing majoritarianism in India.

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Deplorably, Indias superior judiciary not only acquitted the criminals responsible for this despicable act, but also allowed the construction of a temple on the site of the demolished mosque, a statement issued by Pakistans foreign ministry said.

Developments of the last 31 years, leading to todays consecration ceremony, are indicative of growing majoritarianism in India. These constitute an important facet of the ongoing efforts for social, economic and political marginalization of the Indian Muslims, it said.

Islamabad also claimed that after the demolition of Babri, more Indian mosques are facing the threat of desecration and destruction.

Notably, there is a growing list of mosques, including the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi and Shahi Eidgah Mosque in Mathura, facing similar threat of desecration and destruction, the statement added.

The Ram temple in Ayodhya is constructed on the site where once stood a 16th century mosque. Hindus believe the mosque was built by Islamic invader Babar after destroying a temple of Lord Ram.

The mosque was demolished by a mob of kar sevaks (religious workers) in 1992 when the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple movement was at its peak.

This became a legal issue and after decades, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Hindus in 2019, paving the way for the construction of the temple in Ayodhya.

The top court also alloted a separate land to Muslims several kilometres away from the temple site to build a mosque but the construction for the same has not been completed.
With just a few hours left for the grand Pran Pratishtha, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday offered prayers at the temple located in his government residence and said that after 500 years of a long struggle, I am extremely elated to be a witness to this grand festival.

CM Dhami also performed Gau Sewa after offering prayers.

After 500 years of long struggle and sacrifices of many Ram devotees, I am extremely elated and happy to be a witness to this grand and divine festival. Ram belongs to every person and Ram is in every particle, he said.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister added that he prays to Lord Ram for the prosperity of the people of the state and the welfare of all the Sanatanis living all over the world.

Goa CM Pramod Sawant also offered prayers at Rudreshwar Temple in Panaji ahead of the Pran Pratishtha.

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Meanwhile, The Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla is scheduled for Paush Shukla Kurma Dwadashi, Vikram Samvat 2080, which falls today, January 22.

The day will start with a morning puja followed by the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Mrigashira Nakshatra, which is expected to start around 12.30 pm and end at 1 pm.

The ceremony will witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, among other dignitaries.

Over 150 traditions and more than 50 tribal communities will converge at the Shri Ram Temple, creating a unique and diverse assembly.

This marks a historic moment with the participation of residents from mountains, forests, coastal areas, islands, and more.

The temple is constructed in the traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width is 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors.

The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed.

The main entrance to the temple is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir  Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap.

Near the temple is a historic well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the temples complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient temple of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu.

The foundation of the temple has been constructed with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), giving it the appearance of artificial rock. No iron is used anywhere in the temple. For protection against ground moisture, a 21-foot-high plinth has been constructed using granite.

The temple complex has a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety and an independent power station. The temple has been constructed employing the countrys traditional and indigenous technology.
It was recently reported that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is renaming itself as the Indian Air and Space Force (IASF) as part of its on-going overall drive to transform itself from a potent air-power to a credible aerospace power for the future. It has also formulated a new doctrine for effective exploitation of the air and space continuum and a Space Vision 2047, for which it expects the governments approval soon.

It is now readying itself to fully exploit the final frontier of space assisted by DRDO, ISRO and its commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) which was set up in 2019, besides IN-Space (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) which was set up in 2020 to facilitate collaboration between the private sector and ISRO. Other major space powers already have similar structures in place ~ China has the Peoples Liberation Army Strategic Support Force for space domain and the United States has created a full-fledged Space Force (USSF) as a distinct branch of its armed forces in 2019. Several other countries like the UK, Japan, France and Russia have also set up their space commands or wings in the air forces.

Space is definitely turning into the battleground for future wars and has to be integral to any countrys security system. Hence IAFs existing fully-automated air defence network, called the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), will also have to evolve into IASCCS. IAF wants India to have over 100 big and small military satellites in the next 7-8 years when the tri-Service Defence Space Agency set up in 2019 evolves into a full-fledged Space Command.

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Geopolitics is now slowly transforming itself into astropolitics. In the 19th and 20th centuries, geopolitical theories of Alfred Mahan and Halford Mackinder showed the limits of a countrys power based on its geography ~ its mountains, rivers, oceans and other features. Now we are beginning to focus on the space which is not featureless. As Tim Marshall said in his The Future of Geography (Elliott & Thomson, 2023), space has regions of intense radiation, its oceans of distance, its superhighways where a planets gravity can be utilised to accelerate spaceships, its strategic corridors where military and commercial equipment can be placed and bodies like planets and asteroids which can be exploited for their natural resources which may be extremely valuable to humanity. No big power can ignore the immense possibilities of space. International law classifies outer space as a Global Common ~ meaning outside of any countrys national jurisdiction and hence to be governed only by international legislation.

The high oceans, Antarctica, and even cyberspace are examples of Global Common, in respect of some of which there are international treaties. International law, including the Charter of the United Nations, applies to outer space and celestial bodies, which are free for exploration and use by all nations in conformity with international law. Activities in space are regulated by the United Nations Outer Space Treaty (OST ) of 1967 which has been ratified by 111 nations.

The treaty forbids nations to subject outer space, including the moon and other celestial bodies to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means. It also prohibits the establishment of military bases, installations and fortifications, the testing of any type of weapons and the conduct of military manoeuvres on celestial bodies while binding nations not to place in orbit around the earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction, or install such weapons on celestial bodies, or station such weapons in outer space in any other manner.

The responsibility for enforcing these provisions lies with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), which lacks the necessary legal authority or even the institutional capacity to enforce these effectively. As a result, the OST remains only on paper. Another agreement, the Moon Agreement of 1979 similarly forbids the use of the moon for military purposes or its weaponisation, but this treaty has been ratified by only 18 countries, which includes no spacefaring nation including the big three ~ the USA, Russia and China. As the space race heats up, it becomes even more necessary to bring nations together into agreements about the peaceful use of space.

The difficulty in this is exemplified by the fact that presently nations dont even agree on a definition of space ~ NASA defines space as beginning at 80 km above sea level on earth, while the Swiss-based Federation Aeronautique Internationale reckons space at the Kerman Line at 100 km above earth at which a spacecraft will begin to break free from the earths gravity and enter the Cislunar space ~ the region between the Earth and the Moon which is at a distance of 3.85 lakh kms.

Thus, if one nation believes that space begins at 80 km and another believes that it begins at 100 km, then the former can shoot down the satellite of the latter flying a satellite at 90 kms over it, triggering a conflict. There are three more space treaties: the Rescue Agreement of 1968 on the rescue of astronauts, the return of astronauts and the return of objects launched into outer space; the Liability Convention of 1972 on international liability for damage caused by space objects and the Registration Convention of 1976 on registration of objects launched into outer space.

India has signed all five, but has not ratified the Moon Agreement as yet. In May 2023, the UN had issued a Policy Brief titled For all humanity ~ the future of outer space governance to develop a framework for a peaceful world by promoting peace, international law and digital cooperation in space which recommended negotiation and development of a new treaty to ensure peace, security, and the prevention of an arms race in outer space, and also to establish international norms, rules, and principles to address emerging threats and promote responsible space activities. Nothing further has been done.

The UN or any other international body clearly lacks the necessary authority and the persuasive power to bring nations to such a negotiation, in the absence of which space remains a domain where might is right and the law of the jungle prevails. Since 1957, when the first satellite Sputnik-I was launched by the erstwhile USSR, till 2012, the number of satellites launched into outer space remained practically consistent, at approximately 150 each year. But then they began to rise exponentially, and in 2022, as many as 2,470 satellites were launched in space.

The USA leads the constellation of satellites with nearly 2000 satellites, followed by China at a distant second with about 500, Russia and UK (about 200 each) and Japan (about 100). As of February 2022, India had only 52 operational satellites in space, 23 and 29 operational satellites respectively in LEO and GEO. According to ISRO, till 2022, India has launched a total of 124 Indian satellites, including those from private operators.

Throughout history, certain specific geographical features of the world have been arenas for intense competition between rival states because of their inherent commercial, military and political advantages. They include the chokepoints of Gibraltar, Suez, Malacca, Bab-el-Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, etc. ~ the last two are flashpoints in the Middle-east right now. Their equivalent in space could be the Low earth Orbit (LEO) extending up to 2,000 km from Earth, which hosts most of the satellites today.

There are about 5,000 active satellites today, but they will be joined by many more in the years to come. More than three fourths of these satellites are in LEO, and about 10 per cent are in Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) at a distance of almost 36,000 km, also known as geostationary orbit as a satellite here appears stationary to an observer on the Earth due to the same orbital period. It is here that most of the communication and TV, radio and weather satellites are placed, because each satellite placed in GEO can see as much as 42 per cent of the earths surface.

Due to signal interference, there are only limited slots and frequencies available for communication, and the UNs International Telecommunications Union awards both positions and frequencies to satellites in GEO, recorded in its Master International Frequency Register. Till now, nations have registered radio frequencies with ITU for a staggering number of over 1.7 million non-geostationary satellites that may be launched into orbit by the beginning of 2030.

GEO is also where most dual-use military communication satellites of the big three space powers and other nations are placed. Beyond GEO is the area where satellites go to die in deeper space at the end of their useful life, when their thrusters push them out of harms way for other active satellites. More than a hundred satellites are also in the Medium Earth orbit (MEO), between the LEO and the GEO.

Over half of the more than 500 satellites estimated to have military or dual-use purposes are in LEO, where their low altitude coupled with short orbital periods make them ideal for Earth observation and surveillance. Some of the LEO satellites, like the International Space Station at 400 km, can even be seen with naked eyes. More than 90 countries have placed satellites in space, using the launch facilities which only 11 countries including India have developed so far.

(The writer is a commentator, author and academic. Opinions expressed are personal)
Ashaky agreement to end fighting in northern Myanmar has served to highlight concerns in Beijing over the ongoing unrest  and the limits of Chinas power to influence the ongoing civil war. On 12 January 2024, China announced that it had brokered a cease-fire between the Myanmar military and a trio of ethnic armies, known as the Three Brotherhood Alliance.

There is, however, one caveat: The agreement only applies to the northern Shan state. The state has seen conflict since Myanmars independence in 1948, and especially after the once-Beijing-backed Burma Communist Party established its headquarters there in 1968 and engaged the countrys army in a prolonged war. It is also a region where opposition to Myanmars military government has had the most success in the current civil war.

Since launching a fresh push against the Myanmar military on 27 October 2023, the alliance has captured one town in Shan state every three days, according to media reports. And despite the China-brokered agreement, sporadic fighting has continued in Shan state. Meanwhile, the truce has done nothing to end the civil war outside the state. But that might not be the point:

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The agreement brokered by Beijing is, I believe, more about trying to safeguard the interests of China than about ushering in elusive peace to Myanmar. Beijing has increasingly been concerned over the threat of Myanmars turmoil spilling over into China. Indeed, a statement by the Chinese foreign ministry announcing the truce noted that both sides in the conflict had committed to not harming the safety of Chinese border residents and personnel involved in projects in Myanmar.

There are clear reasons why China would like to see peace in Myanmar. The destabilized northern region has become a haven for Chinese criminal gangs that traffic humans and drugs, and run online scams from across the border. Meanwhile, the war has blocked trade routes and seen Chinese citizens in border towns increasingly put at risk. Regardless of Chinas desire to see the truce hold, there appears little chance of that happening.

Myanmars army has faced major losses since fighting began in 2021, sparked by a coup in which the countrys generals overthrew the democratically elected government. Since then, a fierce resistance movement has emerged across Myanmar  one the generals have failed to subdue. The recent truce has done little to end the violence, opposition successes or the threat to China.

A day after the cease-fire was announced, one member of the Three Brotherhood Alliance, the Arakan Army, captured Paletwa, a border town with India in the west of Myanmar. Meanwhile, the Kachin Independence Army shot down a China-made fighter jet  the third one in just a few weeks  and the Myanmar army lost control of one of its division headquarters in the cease-fire area. In southeast regions of Myanmar bordering Thailand, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Forces and allied fighters launched Operation 1111, expanding their territorial and administrative control in the region. And in the central plains, the Peoples Defense Forces, an umbrella resistance group, continues to engage in guerrilla warfare against the military.

In the context of the sprawling civil war, China has found itself in uncharted territory. In the past, China has been able to exert its influence over Myanmars politics. But the civil war has seen the emergence of new resistance groups, such as the Peoples Defense Forces, most of whose members are younger than the soldiers in established armies. And they have no intention of entering any agreement with the Myanmar military  despite the entreaties of Beijing. Moreover, these new groups have made strategic and logistic links beyond Myanmars borders, giving them access to smuggled arms and supplies.As such, Chinas influence over Myanmar is constrained.

This is even more so given the ethno-nationalism underpinning much of the fighting in Myanmar. Chinese efforts to end the fighting do little to provide solutions to tie the disparate ethnic groups in Myanmar together. In fact, the one thing binding the ethnic groups that form the Three Brotherhood Alliance is the common goal of defeating the Myanmar army. In addition, the safety of Chinese citizens in regions across the Myanmar border cannot be guaranteed by the cease-fire agreement with the military.

The armys inability to tackle criminal gangs in Shan state prior to civil war suggests that even without warfare, the region will continue to pose a threat to China. Meanwhile, Chinas relationship with, and influence over, groups in northern Myanmar has changed as a result of the civil war. Take the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), a resistance group in the Kokang region that borders Chinas Yunnan province and shares linguistic and cultural ties with China. Since being formed in 1989, its support has switched back and forth from the Myanmar government to the resistance groups  as has Chinas. But the MNDAA cannot be viewed as a vassal state of China. In 2019, the MNDAA joined the Three Brotherhood Alliance with the Arakan Army and Taang National Liberation Army, groups with different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Chinas diplomacy and influence over the Three Brotherhood Alliance is limited: A truce threatens the unity that the group has developed in opposition to the military.

And there is little incentive among the Three Brotherhood Alliance to stop fighting at a time when it appears to be on the front foot, and morale among Myanmars soldiers is low. Entering the truce is in itself risky for the alliance, as it may threaten the groups standing with other armed groups  many of whom China never dealt with until 2021. As such, Beijings power to influence Myanmars ethnic resistance groups is limited. But there is another reason why the truce Beijing brokered may not hold: Beijings desire to give any support to the military government has its limits, too. China is losing patience with the Myanmar military, which has failed to crack down on criminal gangs that have targeted Chinese citizens.

As many as 120,000 people, many of them Chinese citizens, have been trafficked into Myanmar by these organizations to help operate online scams. Chinas default position on Myanmar has traditionally been to support whoever is in power. And Beijing had a good relationship with the democratic government under Aung San Suu Kyi prior to the 2021 coup.

The corruption and non-governability of Myanmars border towns since then threaten the safety of Chinese citizens and undermines any faith China has in the militarys ability to deliver stability. If Myanmars military cannot stabilize northern Myanmar, China is in a difficult situation. The status quo  with the Myanmar military in power, but unable to subdue resistance movements  will continue to present a threat to China

(The writer is Associate Professor of World Cultures and Languages, Northern Illinois University. This article was published on www.theconversation.com)
Northern Ireland finds itself in a persistent limbo, the prospect of fresh elections continually deferred. The latest announcement of yet another delay, coming from Britains Minister for the region, reflects the prolonged struggle to reinstate a power-sharing government that has been absent for nearly two years. The crux of the matter lies in the fallout from the Democratic Unionist Partys (DUP) departure in protest against Britains post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland.

This political stalemate, while not unfamiliar to those acquainted with Northern Irelands complex history, poses a serious challenge to the regions stability. The absence of a government for almost two years is not merely a procedural hiccup but a poignant reminder of the delicate balance that underpins the peace achieved through the 1998 Good Friday accord, which brought an end to three decades of sectarian violence. The trigger for the DUPs departure, the post-Brexit trade rules, has not only proven to be a bone of contention but has also laid bare the intricacies and tensions inherent in the delicate relationship between Northern Ireland, the rest of the United Kingdom, and the European Union. The DUPs claim of significant trade barriers with the UK due to these rules has become a rallying cry, underscoring the challenges of reconciling national and regional interests. The decision to delay elections once again underscores the difficulty of finding a resolution to this multifaceted issue.

However, it is crucial to view this delay not merely as a bureaucratic postponement but as a window of opportunity. The hope expressed by Northern Ireland Minister Chris Heaton-Harris for a lastminute deal is a beacon of optimism in an otherwise murky political landscape. The acknowledgment of progress in talks by DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, leaving room for cautious optimism. In navigating the intricacies of Northern Irelands political quagmire, it is imperative for all parties involved to exhibit a sense of pragmatism. The historical context, shaped by decades of conflict, demands a nuanced approach that prioritises compromise over confrontation. The very essence of the Good Friday accord is rooted in power-sharing between Irish nationalists and pro-British unionists.

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Any deviation from this delicate equilibrium risks unravelling the hard-won peace that the region has enjoyed. While the specifics of the on-going negotiations remain veiled, it is crucial for both sides to recognise the shared responsibility of sustaining peace in Northern Ireland. Power-sharing, though challenging, is not a burden but an opportunity to foster collaboration and build bridges between communities that have weathered the storm of conflict. As Northern Ireland teeters on the precipice of another potential election delay, the plea for pragmatism echoes louder than ever.

The coming days and weeks hold the promise of a breakthrough, a chance to demonstrate that political will can triumph over historical grievances. In the delicate balance of power-sharing, the path forward lies in embracing compromise, fostering open dialogue, and preserving the hard-fought peace.
The death toll from Israeli missile attack last week on Irans targets in the Syrian capital of Damascus has risen to 13, according to a war monitor.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday that among the 13 casualties were five Iranians, three of whom held commanding roles in Irans 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 neighbourhood, specifically targetting a residential building where a meeting of IRGC commanders was reportedly taking place, Xinhua news agency reported.

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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.
Exactly 100 years have passed since the birth of the legendary director of Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, Sergei Parajanov. Half a century has passed since the Soviet authorities sentenced the legendary cultural figure to 5 years in a strict regime camp for "Ukrainian nationalism and homosexuality."

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Finally, 50 years after the director's trial, Serhiy Parajanov was legally recognized as rehabilitated, the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory reported. The case was supported by the Office of the President of Ukraine and Ukrainian human rights activists, said Anton Drobovych, head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory

"The legal rehabilitation of Sergei Parajanov is a truly remarkable and significant event. It is yet another proof of the thesis that goodness and justice ultimately prevail, even if in a strategic perspective. All victims of the communist totalitarian regime, as well as any totalitarian regime, have the right and opportunity to be restored to dignity and truth," Drobovych said at the UINP.

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The Institute of National Remembrance also wrote that the decision to rehabilitate Serhiy Parajanov "is a landmark precedent for the consideration of other high-profile cases of Ukrainian dissidents who were convicted by the communist totalitarian regime on trumped-up charges under the so-called 'general criminal articles'.

The case of the arrest began in 1964. At that time, during the premiere of Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, Parajanov's long-awaited film, a protest by creative intellectuals against mass political repression by the USSR took place in Kyiv's Ukraina Cinema, UINP reports .

Subsequently, 9 years after the premiere, the Soviet authorities decided to imprison Sergei Parajanov for 5 years in strict regime camps, accusing him of "Ukrainian nationalism and homosexuality," probably because of the film Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors. The Ukrainian-Armenian filmmaker was released from arrest by the Russian sculptor Lilya Brick, who later helped him write a letter to Leonid Brezhnev to allow Parajanov to travel to Iran for a year. Unfortunately, the artist never received a response.

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Andriy Kohut, Director of the Security Service of Ukraine Archive, responded to the information about the rehabilitation on Facebook: "This news was hard to keep to myself and I am very glad that it has already been widely spread in the media. On December 20, the National Rehabilitation Commission and I finally rehabilitated Sergei Parajanov. Unfortunately, there are far fewer documents of State Security Committee of the USSR about the director than there used to be. "Loafer" was the operational nickname Parajanov received from the Chekists. From the surviving card, it is known that the 5th Directorate of the State Security Committee of the USSR, the same one that fought against dissidents, was involved in its development."

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Nearly 9,000 people, according to the police, participated in a march in Brussels, demanding concrete measures from Belgium to establish an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ensure justice for the Palestinian people.

As the current President of the EU Council, Belgium is called upon to play a central role in promoting a fair solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Xinhua news agency reported.

On Monday, the EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in the Middle East in Brussels. The 27 EU Foreign Ministers will meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz before separate talks with the top diplomat of the Palestinian Authority, Riyad al-Maliki.

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The mobilisation on this Sunday was initiated by a diverse coalition of Belgian civil society organisations, including major NGOs.

The organisers, advocating for peace, warned against any promotion of war crimes, attacks on civilians, anti-Semitism or racism.

According to the organisers, in the past three months, more than 24,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children have lost their lives. Nearly 1.9 million people have been forcibly displaced, and a significant portion of civil infrastructure has been completely destroyed.


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Bill Gouveia is a Sun Chronicle columnist. Reach him at billsinsidelook@gmail.com and follow him on X (formerly Twitter), @Billinsidelook .
The European Union (EU) may still meet Poland halfway and impose restrictions on the import of agricultural products from Ukraine to neighboring countries. Most likely, this will include Poland itself, as well as Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia. If this happens, Ukrainian exports, which have already suffered from the border blockade, will be severely affected.

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The European Commission (EC) will make a decision on the possible embargo this week (by January 28), the Financial Times (FT) reports. The information was confirmed by European Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.

"The EC intends to offer additional guarantees to countries bordering Ukraine when it extends duty-free and quota-free access (to EU markets - Ed.) from June (2024 - Ed.)... The proposal is due this week and is likely to include 'country-specific safeguards' that allow Brussels to block imports in case of market overcrowding in a particular country," the article says.

According to analysts at the Center for Economic Strategy(CES), such a decision would significantly worsen Ukraine's overall exports. It will remain almost twice as low as in 2021: $36 billion in 2023 compared to $68.2 billion in 2021.

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In November 2023 alone, the Ukrainian budget lost UAH 9.8 billion due to the blockade of the Polish border. Other countries, such as Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and Slovakia, are also demanding restrictions on Ukrainian exports from the EU.

"Ukraine lacks the ability to effectively negotiate at the sectoral level. More active lobbying is needed. Establishing public organizations of Ukrainian entrepreneurs could help prevent similar aggravations in the future," commented Yana Okhrimenko, senior economist at CES.

Ukrainian exports under European restrictions can be supported by sea transportation, which was the most popular type of logistics before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to CES experts, the situation here is far from hopeless.

"In December, the Ukrainian maritime corridor overtook the grain corridor that was in place earlier (the one implemented together with Russia - Ed.) in terms of exports. Exports of ferrous metals have also partially resumed. Currently, steel mills are operating at about 70% of their capacity," the experts say.

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As a reminder, Poland has been banning imports of Ukrainian agricultural products since spring 2023. The European Commission's decision in September of the same year to lift restrictions on the import of Ukrainian products did not affect the position of the Poles and a number of other neighbors of Ukraine, although it contradicts EU trade rules.

Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary imposedunilateral restrictions on Ukrainian imports. The World Trade Organization (WTO) is dealing with this issue in parallel with the European Commission, and the Ukrainian side has already filed a complaint with the WTO.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, earlier the European Commissioner from Poland Janusz Wojciechowski, who is responsible for agriculture in the European Commission, threatened to disrupt the extension of EU trade preferences for Ukraine. Among other things, the European Commissioner demanded a ban on imports of Ukrainian grain, as well as quotas on sugar and poultry.

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Seth Diamand worked as an educator in Franklin Public Schools, teaching both elementary and middle school before retiring. He lives in North Attleboro.
On the day when the consecration of Ram Lalla at the grand temple in Ayodhya was held in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held an all-faith rally in Kolkata.

The 'Sanghati March' which began from Hazra More and culminated at Park Circus Maidan was attended by religious leaders from various faiths and key members of the Trinamool Congress.

Later, talking to the media, Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party and said she didnt believe in politicising religion ahead of elections.

I don't believe in politicising religion ahead of elections. I am against such practice. I have no objection against those worshipping Lord Ram, but object to interference with the food habits of people," she said in her concluding remarks at the rally, she said.

Banerjee also labelled the saffron camp as anti-women for omitting Goddess Sita from their discourse about Lord Ram.

"They (BJP) talk about Lord Ram, but what about Goddess Sita? She was all along with Lord Ram during his exile. They don't speak about her as they are anti-women. We are worshippers of Goddess Durga, so they should not try to lecture us about religion," the Trinamool chief asserted.

The rally saw Banerjee visiting diverse places of worship, such as a temple, mosque, church, and gurdwara in Kolkata.

"Smt. @MamataOfficial kickstarted the Sanhati Rally from Hazra Park. As thousands of people join this rally uniting all communities, the message 'Sarva Dharma Sama Bhava' resonates across the city! The secular thread of our nation that binds us all remains stronger than ever!, the Trinamool Congress wrote on X earlier in the day.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused the CPI(M) of trying to dictate terms at the meetings of INDIA bloc, a statement which hints at the widening fissures within the opposition alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

"I suggested the name INDIA during the opposition bloc meeting. But whenever I attend the meeting, I find the Left trying to control it. This is not acceptable. I cannot agree with those with whom I had fought for 34 years," she said, addressing an all-faith rally in Kolkata.

"Despite such insults, I have adjusted and attended the INDIA bloc meetings, she added.

In her speech, the chief minister took a veiled dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhis temple visit in Assam and sought to underscore that no one confronts the BJP as directly as she does.

"How many politicians today took on the BJP head-on? Somebody went to one temple and thought it was sufficient, but it was not. I am the only one who visited the temple, gurudwara, church, and mosque. I have been fighting for a long time. When the Babri Masjid issue (demolition) happened, and violence was taking place, I was on the streets, she said.

The CPI (M)-led Left Front, Congress, and TMC are members of the 28-party strong INDIA bloc which was formed to take on the BJP in the national level. In West Bengal, however, the CPI(M) and Congress have aligned against the TMC and BJP.

Banerjees all-faith rally on Monday coincided with the consecration ceremony of Ram Lall at the grand temple in Ayodhya in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The 'Sanghati March' which began from Hazra More and culminated at Park Circus Maidan was attended by religious leaders from various faiths and key members of the Trinamool Congress.

The chief minister also visited diverse places of worship, such as a temple, mosque, church, and gurdwara in Kolkata as part of the rally.
After Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh criticised central forces for becoming mute spectators to continued ethnic violence, a fresh challenge has emerged for the Union home ministry with ruling MLAs demanding the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreements with the armed militant groups be revoked till they are completely disarmed and sent to their camps. The Centre has entered SoO agreement with militant groups in Manipur such as the Kuki National Organisation and the United Peoples Front, a conglomerate of nearly 24 armed rebel groups, which expires on February 29.

More than 30 MLAs met on Sunday and adopted a resolution saying the SoO with the armed militant groups is the main cause of the continuing cycle of violence and that the agreement should not be extended by the home ministry after February 29. It said the SoO agreement with the armed militant groups is giving them immunity from stern action by the central forces deployed in the state. Thus, Suspension of Operation with militants who indulge in the killing of innocent civilians and violation of ground rules should be abrogated immediately, it said.

The MLAs have demanded complete disarmament of all illegal arms in the possession of miscreants and unauthorised persons in the entire state at the earliest by the central and state forces. The legislators have also expressed concern over attacks, using sophisticated weaponry such as Rocket Propelled Grenade launchers, on citizens and security forces alike by alleged Myanmar-based armed militants, saying those must be stopped at all costs.

While there are intelligence reports to indicate the involvement of such foreign groups, there is still no concrete evidence of their involvement in the violence in Manipur, Kuldiep Singh, former CRPF chief and security advisor to the Manipur government told THE WEEK. He further said the Central government will take a decision on the SoO with the militant groups after consulting with various security and intelligence agencies.

Meanwhile, the state MLAs continue to express their dissatisfaction with the central forces saying they have not been responsive and remained mute spectators when unarmed civilians (particularly farmers) are being indiscriminately fired upon frequently.

The blame game continues as frustration is spilling onto the central forces with both Meitis and Kuki groups unable to arrive at a peaceful resolution. The central forces have been deployed in the state to assist the state government in controlling the law and order situation. These forces and their leadership (chain of command) need to give strict instructions and be held accountable and replaced with forces that have the ability to act by returning suppressive fire when they observe that unarmed civilians are being fired upon, to enable civilians to get to cover and safety, says the resolution. These issues are particularly being flagged in places such as Moreh, Bishnupur, Imphal West, Kakching among others.
Amidst controversies about the DMK government restricting live telecast and special pujas for Ayodhya pran pratishtha in temples in Tamil Nadu, the state government informed the Supreme Court that no ban has been imposed and the petition was politically motivated.



Hearing the plea filed by BJP leader, Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta advised authorities to act in accordance with the law and not to refuse permissions for screenings, pujas on flimsy grounds. In the petition, the BJP alleged that the Tamil Nadu government has banned live screenings and special pujas. The bench asked authorities to maintain record of permission granted and those disallowed.

Earlier, Madras High Court on a similar plea observed no permission was needed for functions in private enclosures and held that Bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the social equilibrium.

Additional Public Prosecutor A. Damodharan informed the High Court that functions conducted in private enclosures like mandapams, private temples and any other private place do not require any permission from the police. However, he added that while conducting such events, there is a possibility of spill over to the place which is accessed by the general public, the same has to be informed to the police in order to enable the police to take necessary measures to keep the situation under control and to ensure that no disturbance is caused to the free movement of the general public. The prosecutor informed the court concerned authorities must be informed while conducting such events within temple premises under HR & CE department.

However, Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister, P.K. Sekar Babu had said on Sunday that the HR & CE Department has not imposed any kind of ban for conduct of puja for Shri Ram. Also, there is no bar to distribute 'Annadhanam' and 'Prasadam.' He dismissed the claim as false news with ulterior motives.

-with PTI inputs.
Multiple committees have been constituted by the government for reforming the DRDO. The reports of the Rama Rao committee and the Ramgopal Rao committee led to some reforms in the working of the organisation, but not much.



Last year, the government set up another committee under Prof. Vijaya Raghavan, with members from the three services, the academia and industry representatives. Though its report, submitted early this month, has not been made available to the public, bits and pieces have emerged here and there, and those are not very encouraging.

As one who has worked for 35 years in DRDO from being an entry-level scientist and superannuated as the director of one of its crucial laboratories that developed cutting-edge technology products, I am pained by the kind of reactions that are spreading in the mainstream and social media. Wrong comparisons are being made of DRDO with the Department of Atomic Energy and the ISRO to show DRDO in a poor light.

Let me start by stating that our scientists too work late into the night, as do space and atomic scientists, to develop technologies and systems. But most people do not understand that the requirements are different.

Atomic scientists work in a totally closed environment, and very little is discussed about their work in the public. In the case of ISRO, it should be noted that they make their plans, develop the systems, produce the systems and use the systems. They are the developers, producers and users of their products.

Not so in the case of the DRDO. DRDO is only a developer of technologies or products. The product, or the product made from the technology, is produced by the industry. And the user of the product is the armed forces. To put it simply, we may develop a rocket launcher; it is productionised by a PSU or a private industry; it is finally used by the Army. For any delay, real or attributed, the industry can blame DRDO; for any flaw in the technical finesse of the system, the user can blame either the DRDO or the maker-industry or both.

But then, one cannot quarrel with it; DRDO ought to understand the reality and work to keep both the industry and the user satisfied.

But blame of the DRDO for delay or flaws in technology could also have inspired otherwise. Foreign vendors with deep pockets have set up offices in Delhi, Mumbai and elsewhere, having hired retired armed forces personnel on their staff so as to liaise with the decision-makers. It is easy for the user to opt for import of the foreign product, or the industry to argue for buying the foreign technology and make the product at home under licence, rather than patiently wait for the DRDO to develop the technology and transfer it to them.

DRDOs capability has been proven beyond doubt in the case of products for which foreign alternatives are not available. It is well known that nobody sells you ballistic missiles or the technology for ballistic missiles, unless you are a rogue nation like Pakistan. Naturally, the only option is to develop and produce our own ballistic missiles. The Prithvi and Agni programmes prove that DRDO could develop and deliver in time, to the full satisfaction of the user, when there are no foreign vendors around.

DRDO develops several classes of systems. Let me explain one by one:

(a) Platforms: These are fighter aircraft, helicopters, gliders, battle tanks, ships and submarines.

(b) Weapons: Torpedoes, rockets, missiles and their launchers.

(c) Sensors: used in electronic warfare systems, warheads, for cyber security, robotics and AI etc.,

(d) Small platforms: Drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, remotely-operated aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, midget submarines, mini-autonomous underwater vehicles etc.

Often it is over the development of platforms and weapons that the DRDO is shown in poor light, forgetting the fact that its products such as Tejas light combat aircraft, Arjun battle tank, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher are already in service. Most of the weapons are of one-time use. A torpedo, once launched, cannot be recovered and reused. These weapons are designed in cooperation with the user, and their drawing, simulation, manufacturing and quality assurance are all executed with them in the loop. As regards sensors, hardly any complaints have been heard from the users about the sensors developed by the DRDO for any kind of environment.

The miniature versions of the system are comparatively of recent development, one can say post-1990s. Only since then have we seen drones and pilotless flying systems being used anywhere in the world. Everyone knows it is a challenge to bring down the weight and size of equipment without compromising its capabilities. Here, project management plays a crucial role in achieving these parameters. At present, more start-ups are getting part of developing these systems, and this will attract more MSMEs, and even larger industries since the quantity requirement will be huge.

The major phases in project execution are- system design, analysis, simulation, drawings & documents, prototype realisation through industry partner, testing, controlled environment trials and finally user trials. For the past 10 years, the DRDO has been cutting down the time taken for the movement of files and number of files. Often the manufacturer delays the delivery of the prototype, but the DRDO gets the blame. When it comes to field trials, everything depends on the climate and the user who does the trial.

If the reason for revamp is only to cut the timeline, one wonders how the committee has proposed to deal with these issues which are beyond the control of the DRDO. If the revamp is intended to bring knowledge centres like academia and the prospective entrepreneurs who are coming out from the academies, they need to be guided in the domain knowledge. Already, attempts are afoot in this direction.

DRDO has established 15 centres of excellence to interact with academia through grants-in-aid funding; then there is the technology development fund (TDF) to work with the industry for the development of technology.

What is needed is to develop an ecosystem with eminent academic institutions and industry partners to develop cutting-edge technologies. Tax concessions may be offered to industries that partner with DRDO and academia in developing defence technology. Only then would a revamp would have any meaning and significance.

The author retired as director of the DRDOs Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) and is currently serving as director, DRDO-Industry-Academia, Ramanujan Centre of Excellence, IIT-M, Chennai.
Hoping for an "auspicious" start for their newborns, many couples had 'muhurat deliveries', planned in consultation with doctors, in hospitals on Monday coinciding with the Ram Lalla idol consecration in Ayodhya.

While 'Ram', 'Sita' and related names were preferred for many newborns delivered on the day, a baby boy born to a Muslim family in the district hospital in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, was named Ram Rahim by his grandmother.

Dr Naveen Jain, incharge of the district women's hospital, said that the woman, Farzana, gave birth to a baby boy and "the child's grandmother Husna Banu has named him Ram Rahim" saying she wanted to give a "message of Hindu-Muslim unity".

JSS Super Speciality Hospital run by the Shri Siddeshwar Loka Kalyana Charitable Trust in Karnataka's Vijayapura had special requests from over 50 pregnant women to have delivery on January 22 and it conducted over 20 deliveries on Monday.

"We had special requests from over 50 pregnant women to align their delivery dates for January 22... since it is Lord Ram's day," Leelavati CA, Head HR, told PTI.

"Since, there were several requests, after looking at the medical condition of the expecting mothers and multiple scans, we could schedule the delivery of over 20 women for January 22.

"Today alone, we have carried out delivery of more than 20 women so far and still operation threatres are full and scanning is still being carried out to schedule the next line of deliveries," the hospital official said.

Ashwini Bagli, 21, whose husband is a bank employee, is among those who had their baby on Monday.

"It's an auspicious day and our family wanted to get the delivery done on a historic day when Lord Ram is back in Ayodhya. I gave birth to a baby girl on this auspicious day and so, we are planning to name our baby Sita," she said.

The hospital had announced free delivery of newborns at its facility from January 18 to January 22 and carried out over 100 deliveries during the specified period, according to the hospital administration.

It also organised a "cradle ceremony" on January 22 of which three newborns - two baby boys and a baby girl - were a part as "Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman".

A 42-year-old woman delivered a baby boy at Male Hospital in Maharashtra's Thane city after doctors agreed to her request for a delivery on January 22 though she was due on January 23.

Samrudhi Bamane, who works in the IT sector, had requested that her delivery be advanced by a day to coincide with the auspicious occasion, Dr Chandrakant Barure of Male Hospital in Thane told PTI.

The baby was born at 12.30 pm at the hospital, located in Naupada area of Thane, the doctor said. The mother and the baby are doing well, he added.

Many expectant parents nationwide had sought muhurat deliveries' to coincide with the consecration of Ram temple at Ayodhya.

There were also several parents like 30-year-old Boramma who had natural childbirth and felt it was their good luck.

"My husband is a farmer and we did not have enough money to get my delivery scheduled for January 22 .. I felt like even Lord Ram wanted me to deliver my baby on this auspicious day," she said hours after delivering her baby at JSS Super Speciality Hospital.

"Being a devotee of Ram, we have decided to name our newborn as Shri Ram. I feel blessed," she said.

Seema Dwivedi, acting in-charge of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, said as many as 25 babies were delivered here on Monday.

Talking to PTI over the phone, Dwivedi said that several expectant mothers had requested her a Caesarean section on January 22.

Out of the 25 infants, 10 were girls while the rest were boys and all were normal and healthy, she said, adding they were a mix of natural births and planned deliveries.

Dwivedi said that Bharti Mishra, who delivered a boy, has christened the child Ram, believing that it will have a positive impact on the baby's personality.

The boys were given other names of Lord Ram also like Raghav, Raghvendra, Raghu and Ramendra, while many girls have been named Janaki and Sita.

A girl was born to couple Sanjana and Lokesh through a caesarean delivery at Depalpur Civil Hospital in Indore, Dr Sushma Boriwal said.

"I was in touch with the doctors and medical staff of the hospital to have the baby delivered on January 22 but was told it had not completed its term. However, Sanjana complained of pain at around 11 am, after which the operation was performed," Lokesh told PTI.

Both the mother and child are in good health, he said.

At least 47 babies were delivered in different hospitals in three districts of Madhya Pradesh on Monday, health officials said. While 33 babies were born in three hospitals in Indore, the figure was 13 for Damoh and one for Bhopal, they said.

In Indore's state-run PC Sethi hospital, 18 babies, comprising nine girls and as many boys, were born on Monday, Dr Veerendra Rajgir told PTI.

While 17 were normal deliveries, one was a caesarean procedure, Rajgir added

Eleven infants were born through normal deliveries, while three were delivered by caesarean operation at the government-run MTH Hospital in Indore, senior gynaecologist Dr Sumitra Yadav told PTI.

The infants - eight girls and six boys - are doing well, she added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, and several other BJP leaders lit 'diyas' (lamps) at their residence on Monday following the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Modi took to X to share photos lighting a 'diya' in front of a photograph of the Ram statue from the Ayodhya temple at his official 7, Lok Kalyan Marg residence.

The prime minister had urged the devotees to light 'Ram Jyoti' at home and celebrate a 'mini Diwali' to mark the consecration ceremony.

The defence minister also shared photographs on X lighting a 'Ram Jyoti' at his residence.

"Today Ram Lalla is seated in his new, divine and grand temple in Ayodhya Dham. The whole country is celebrating Diwali. On this auspicious occasion, lighting a 'Ram Jyoti' at home with family," Singh said.

Gadkari was joined at his residence by the students from a school for hearing impaired children, who participated in the prayers with the minister and his family.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also lit a 'diya' at his residence here and said this is a "historic day".

The new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday, an event led by Prime Minister Modi and watched by lakhs of people on television and social media at their homes and in temples across the country.

Army helicopters showered flower petals on the newly constructed Janmabhoomi temple as the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony took place -- a seminal occasion in India's political and religious history.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his supporters are staging a dharna in Assam after he was denied permission to visit the Sri Sri Sankar Dev Satra temple in Bordua. The temple trust has reportedly asked to visit at 3pm, after pran pratishtha ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya is over.

The former Congress chief was scheduled to pay obeisance to the local deity before starting his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Monday. Mahila Congress leaders subsequently sat on a dharna to protest against the denial of permission to Gandhi to visit the temple. The former Congress chief also joined the dharna.

Rahul Gandhi questioned the police on why he was being stopped from visiting the temple. "Will PM Modi now decide who will visit a temple and when," Gandhi said. In a video, Rahul Gandhi was seen questioning a security official, What is the issue brother? Can I go and see the barricades? What mistake have I done that I am not allowed inside the temple?", PTI reported. Gandhi said they are not interested in creating any issues but simply pray at the temple.

Barring the local MP and MLA, no Congress leader was allowed to travel beyond Haiboragaon, around 20km from the temple spot. Even the media team was not allowed to travel beyond Haiboragaon.

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate said, Going to a temple can be anyone's matter of faith. Himanta-led government is hindering the faith (of Rahul Gandhi). We wanted to go to the shrine (birthplace of saint Srimanta Sankardeva) peacefully. They have always tried to be a middleman between us and our God.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had on Sunday urged Rahul Gandhi not to visit the temple during the ceremony to avoid competition between Lord Ram and the medieval-age Vaishnav saint.

Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal tweeted, Today the BJP stopped Rahulji from going to Batadrava Satra, despite prior permission. We have entered a new phase of democracy where the BJP will decide who should go to a temple and at what time. This dictatorial regime must realise that its days are numbered. People of India will not allow such authoritarianism. We will not budge till we are allowed to bow before Sri Sri Srimanta Sankardeva.

-with PTI inputs.
Former Russian President and now Deputy Chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev has thrown another tantrum online. This time, the reason for another surge in the Russian politician's inadequate statements was the decree of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians.

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Medvedev published the relevant post on his Telegram channel. In it, Putin's henchman stated that Ukraine is allegedly the territory of Russia and once again made inadequate accusations against the Ukrainian authorities.

In particular, he accused the Ukrainian president of "drug use" and described his decision to protect Ukrainians on Russian territory as a propaganda move, which he considers to be caused by a "failure" at the front.

Medvedev also said that Zelenskyy could soon add Canada to Ukraine's territory.

"The senior Ukrainian drug addict made an unpretentious propaganda move caused by the failure at the front. Having mercilessly dragged in a double dose, he signed a decree on territorial claims to Russia on lands "historically inhabited by Ukrainians". There is nothing to comment on here, since Ukrainians are Russians, and Malorossia is part of Russia. And it's time for the main "Ukrainian" to give up. He will soon annex Canada..." Medvedev wrote.

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Earlier it was reported that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree on the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians. The document refers to Krasnodar Krai, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov regions of the Russian Federation. The President instructed to develop cooperation between Ukrainians and the peoples enslaved by Russia.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Sea ice around the Antarctic has shrunk and is responding to the atmosphere differently. The challenge is to work out why.

Throughout 2023, the area of ocean around Antarctica covered by sea ice was so far below the norm that scientists have struggled to communicate their shock.

This month, as the sea ice shrinks to its smallest point of the year, it is once again tracking well below its previous levels.

Research released in September 2023 shows that ocean warming was a key contributor to the dramatic change in sea ice.

The question is where the heat comes from.

A new satellite launched recently may provide the key to understanding how the ocean transports heat to Antarctica's margins where it has a devastating impact on sea ice and ice shelves.

Sea ice insulates the ocean, reflects heat, drives currents, supports ecosystems and protects ice shelves.

Every year, its annual cycle of freezing and melting around Antarctica has been extremely reliable. Until recently.

Now we have a preliminary indication that since 2016 Antarctic sea ice coverage has shrunk.

Changes in the relationship between the ocean and sea ice suggest that the current low sea-ice state may represent a new regime for Antarctic sea ice.

After years of relative stability, Antarctica's sea ice appears to have shrunk since 2016. Sea ice forms a thin layer between the ocean and the atmosphere and is affected by both.

Lately, sea ice seems to be responding to atmospheric drivers differently than it did in the past, suggesting a stronger influence from the slowly varying ocean. Parts of the ocean 100200m below the surface began to warm in 2015, and those same regions lost substantial sea ice in 2016.

Since then, the warm subsurface ocean seems to have maintained the low sea-ice coverage.The record-breaking low sea ice of 2023 may be the new abnormal, the beginning of the inevitable decline in Antarctic sea ice, long projected by climate models.

For millions of years, the icy continent has been ring-fenced by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, separating the warm northern waters from the cold polar ocean. Flowing clockwise around Antarctica and driven by westerly winds, the current is the world's strongest, with a flow 100 times stronger than all rivers combined.

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current flows around Antarctica, keeping warm water out but eddies can let heat through.

The current feels' the seafloor and the mountains in its path. Where it encounters barriers like ridges or seamounts, wiggles' are created in the water flow that form eddies.

Ocean eddies are the weather systems of the seas, and they play a key role in transporting heat through the circumpolar current to the ocean around Antarctica. But they're small and hard for satellites to see.

Broad-scale ocean mapping identifies at least five major heat flux gates' or eddy hotspots in the circumpolar current.One is south of Australia, about halfway between Tasmania and Antarctica.

To understand the ocean dynamics happening now and how these may change in the future, we need much higher-resolution data to see smaller-scale features like the eddy hotspots.

Enter the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite. Jointly developed by NASA and French space agency Centre National d'tudes Spatiales (CNES), the SWOT satellite measures differences in the height of the ocean within a few centimetres from an orbit of more than 890 km above the surface.

The advanced radar altimeters on the two-tonne satellite detect surface water features with 10 times better resolution than previous technologies.

Oceanographers say it's like a short-sighted person looking at a tree in the distance, and then putting on glasses to reveal all the leaves.

As SWOT passes over the Southern Ocean, the high-resolution topography it records of the shape of the ocean surface shows the fine streams of current to capture the eddy hotspots spinning off the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

This means scientists can monitor these smaller-scale circulation features thought to be responsible for transporting most of the heat and carbon from the upper ocean to deeper layers a critical buffer against global warming.

For the first time we can see them on the surface in detail but we still need to work out what's happening beneath the waves.

In November 2023, scientists were able to validate the SWOT satellite data from an eddy hotspot in the Southern Ocean in an ambitious voyage on CSIRO research vessel (RV) Investigator.

The five-week FOCUS voyage travelled 850 nautical miles south of Hobart to the Macquarie meander, one of the five eddy hotspots.

A meander may sound gentle and slow, but in fact it's where the world's strongest current races through a series of hairpin bends, steered by mountains on the seafloor.

As the satellite passed overhead, the team led by CSIRO and the Australian Antarctic Programme Partnership deployed a variety of high-tech observational equipment.

Researchers and crew anchored a tall mooring 3.6 km high at the centre of the survey area, carrying over 54 instruments on a cable stretching from the seafloor to near the surface.

They also released free-floating autonomous instruments like floats, drifters and gliders into the eddies, while more than a hundred CTDs conductivity, temperature, and depth sensors plumbed the depths and a Triaxus was towed behind the ship through the satellite's path.

Researchers use a variety of instruments to understand the ocean. Some float along the surface, some dive deep in the water, and some follow directed paths using motors.

The wealth of information gathered by all these instruments ground-truths' and validates the satellite data from the surface.

The Antarctic is rapidly changing, and with further disruptions to the sea-ice cycle on the cards, there's a race to understand why.

Strong winds over the Southern Ocean have been increasing for decades and are likely to continue. It's expected this will send more heat southward through leaky meanders, accelerating ice shelf melting in Antarctica and sea level rise.

Ultimately, this research aims to turn daily maps of ocean sea surface height from satellites into daily maps of the movement of heat in the Southern Ocean toward Antarctica.

This is vital information in a climate crisis. It will help governments plan how to respond to ocean warming and rising sea levels and how quickly action is needed.

At the same time, as the transition to a net-zero world gathers momentum and carbon levels in the atmosphere start to level out, we need to be able to track the response of the Southern Ocean and the global climate system.

(360info.org: By Ariaan Purich, Monash University, Edward Doddridge, University of Tasmania and Benoit Legresy, CSIRO in Melbourne)
A Chinese research vessel is entering the Indian ocean and is on its way to the Maldives, reports claimed on Monday amid the worsening ties between Male and New Delhi.

The development is likely to raise concerns in India which has previously viewed the presence of such ships close to its shores as problematic.

"Xiang Yang Hong 03 is entering the Indian Ocean Region, displaying its destination as Male, the vessel is expected to run an ocean survey operation in the Indian Ocean Region raising concern in India," open source intelligence researcher Damien Symon wrote on X.

XIANG YANG HONG 03 a Chinese ocean research vessel is entering the Indian Ocean Region, displaying its destination as Male, the vessel is expected to run an ocean survey operation in the Indian Ocean Region raising concern in #India pic.twitter.com/y8v1r3ONZe  Damien Symon (@detresfa_) January 22, 2024

An Indian military official confirmed Symons finding and said they are monitoring its movement, reported Reuters. The Maldivian presidents office, Indias foreign ministry and Chinas defence ministry did not respond to requests for comment, it said.

Reuters quoted an Indian security official as saying that China could use the information gathered by these vessels for both civilian and military purposes, including the deployment of submarines.

Sri Lanka, which has denied permission for such vessels to dock on its ports since 2022 after India raised security concerns. In 2019, India had expelled a Chinese research vessel from its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) after it entered without permission.

Relations between India and Maldives have hit a new low ever since Muizzu took office in November riding an 'India Out' campaign.

Male has asked New Delhi to withdraw its nearly 80 military personnel stationed in the island country by March 15.
The strained relationship between India and Maldives appears to have led to a tragedy in Maldives as a teenager in the country, who had a brain tumour and suffered a stroke, was not promptly airlifted for treatment from his home in Gaaf Alif Villingili to Male, the capital city, as authorities were hesitant to use aircraft from India for the purpose.

According to media reports, President Mohammed Muizzu failed to grant approval for the use of India's Dornier aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for evacuating the boy, leading to a delay in providing advanced medical care which may have saved the life of the 14-year-old.

The teenager had suffered the stroke on Wednesday night and the family requested that the boy be airlifted to Male for treatment. However, the aviation authorities waited till Thursday morning to respond to the request. The family claimed that the delay of 16 hours in transferring the boy for better treatment led to his demise.

"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," local media quoted the boy's father as saying.

Meanwhile, Aasandha Company Limited, which arranged the airlift of the boy said they began the process to evacuate the boy soon after they received the request. The company said a "technical glitch" had led 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," a statement from the company said.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced that he is withdrawing from the Republican party's presidential primary race and endorsing Donald Trump as the party's nominee, leaving Indian-American politician Nikki Haley as the sole challenger against the former US president in the nomination contest.

DeSantis, who came in second in the Iowa caucuses with 21 per cent, suspended his campaign on Sunday. He said that it was clear to him that a majority of Republican primary voters wanted to give Trump another chance.

"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," the 45-year-old politician said in a video message posted on X, a social media platform.

Haley, 51, the former US ambassador to the UN, is the only Republican left in the Republican nomination race against Trump, who is seeking to enter the White House for a second term.



The 77-year-old former president, a White House occupant from January 2017 to January 2021, lost to incumbent Joe Biden in the 2020 elections.



Trump, so far the most popular Republican presidential candidate with a majority of the party members supporting him, as per all major polls, won the Iowa Caucus last week and is leading in the New Hampshire primaries, which is scheduled for Tuesday.



DeSantis said: I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honour 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."



"Following our second-place finish in Iowa, we've prayed and deliberated on our way forward. If there was anything I could do to produce a favourable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it," he added.



On Sunday, Trump congratulated DeSantis at his New Hampshire rally for running a "good" campaign.



"Before we begin, I'd like to take time to congratulate Ron DeSantis and, of course, a really terrific person who I've gotten to know, his wife Casey, for having run a great campaign for president. He really did. He ran a really good campaign, I will tell you. It's not easy," he said



"They think it's easy doing this stuff, right? It's not easy. 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 it. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron to defeat crooked Joe Biden. We have to get him out," the Politico newspaper reported.



With the withdrawal by DeSantis, who once was seen as a formidable challenge to Trump, it's now a race of two in the party between Trump and Haley.



Political pundits now say that the former president is set to be the Republican party's nominee and that the November 2024 presidential elections will be a repeat of the 2020 elections: Trump vs Biden.

The Trump campaign also welcomed DeSantis' dropout. "With only a few days left until president Donald J Trump's 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," it said.

The Trump campaign also criticised Haley. "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," the campaign said.



A memo issued by the Trump Campaign also said that Haley needed to drop out of the race to save herself from humiliation. "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, the memo said, adding that the Indian-American politician should either drop out and unite behind Trump or get "demolished and embarrassed" in her home state of South Carolina.



However, Haley, the former South Carolina governor, insisted that she would stay in the race. "I want to say to Ron: he ran a great race. He's been a good governor. And we wish him well. Having said that, it's now one fellow and one lady left," she said at a campaign event in New Hampshire.In a statement, she said that only one state had voted so far, and half of its votes went to Trump while the other half did not. "We're 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. When I'm president, I will do everything in my power to show them they made the right decision," Haley said.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) Jindal Stainless Ltd on Monday said it has elevated Whole Time Director Tarun Khulbe as Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

A decision in this regard was taken at the company's board meeting last week, Jindal Stainless Ltd (JSL) said in a regulatory filing.

"The board has approved the elevation of Tarun Khulbe as the Chief Executive Officer & Whole Time Director," it said.

He has been serving as the Whole Time Director of the company since May 2018. He will continue to hold the post besides that of the CEO, the company said.

Khulbe has around 35 years of industry experience in business development, supply chain management, people practices and IT enablement.

"His experience in crafting long-term business strategies and strengthening all facets of operations and sales has been commendable. At a time when the company is expanding and maturing its upstream and downstream linkages, having Khulbe at the helm of affairs is critical to our growth plans," JSL Managing Director Abhyuday Jindal said.

Khulbe joined JSL as a general manager for the cold rolling mills at Hisar, Haryana, in October 2004.

Part of O P Jindal Group, Jindal Stainless is India's largest stainless steel manufacturer.
Ahmedabad (Gujarat) [India], January 22: CLEAR Premium Water, a quality-focused and value-based premium bottled water brand that had roped in Hrithik Roshan as its brand ambassador last year, recently released its latest campaign featuring the superstar.



"CLEAR rehne mein samajhdaari hai (It is wise to stay clear)," Hrithik Roshan emphasizes the wise choice of the premium bottled water brands consumers, echoing the brilliance behind choosing CLEAR in the latest campaign tagline drop.



In an industry where quality and safety take precedence, CLEAR Premium Water has positioned itself as the go-to choice for discerning consumers and found an invaluable ally in the Bollywood superstar.



Nayan Shah, the Founder and Managing Director of CLEAR Premium Water, emphasized, "As the ambassador of CLEAR, Hrithik Roshan not only instills tremendous trust in the brand but also within the community. This recent unveiling showcases his endorsement as well as underscores CLEARs dedication to delivering premium bottled water that prioritize quality and service."



This collaboration signifies more than just a marketing move; it symbolizes a joint commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle while addressing critical issues such as sustainability, environmental conservation, and the imperative choice of safe and pure drinking water.



We eagerly anticipate the tagline drop and the expansive impact it is set to make.



Campaign Link



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
MUMBAI, India, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Deutsche Bank hosted its flagship art show titled 'Masters of Modern Indian Art' on 19th January 2024, which was attended by India's top business and corporate leaders. The evening was hosted by Kaushik Shaparia, CEO India & Emerging Asia, Deutsche Bank Group India, in the courtyard of the magnificent white neo-Baroque Deutsche Bank House in the heritage Fort precinct of Mumbai.



The heritage building played host to a specially curated exhibition of more than 40 works of art, curated by Gallery 7, one of the city's premier art establishments and a scintillating musical performance by Nandini Shankar, a renowned Hindustani classical violinist, daughter of maestro Dr. Sangeeta Shankar and granddaughter of Padmabhushan-awardee Dr. N. Rajam.



Speaking about the Art Show, Kaushik Shaparia, CEO India & Emerging Asia, Deutsche Bank, said, "At Deutsche Bank we believe art fosters new ideas that help in shaping our future. It inspires people, opens up new perspectives, thereby enabling them to embrace unusual and innovative solutions. This year's art show is a perfect blend of legendary works as well as great works of contemporary artists."



Deutsche Bank is well known as one of the most consequential global supporters of art and its locally focused collection of modern and contemporary art, includes noteworthy and early works by important artists such as Arpana Caur or Bhupen Khakhar. Many of these works are on view in the halls of the Deutsche Bank House.



About Deutsche Bank



Deutsche Bank provides commercial and investment banking, retail banking, transaction banking and asset and wealth management products and services to corporates, governments, institutional investors, small and medium-sized businesses, and private individuals. Deutsche Bank is Germany's leading bank, with a strong position in Europe and a significant presence in the Americas and Asia Pacific.



The Deutsche Bank group has been operating in India since 1980 with a strong presence in the businesses of corporate and investment banking, retail banking, private wealth management and global business services. With over 20,000 staff and operations across 18 locations in India, the group is recognised as one of the leading foreign financial services providers in India.



About Deutsche Bank India's Art Collection



The art program at Deutsche Bank in India was initiated in 1993. In line with the tradition of Deutsche Bank collecting contemporary art and displaying it on the bank's premises, a variety of Indian and German works of art were selected for permanent collection in Mumbai.



The Indian part of the collection was to represent current activity from major art centres throughout the country, with a good deal of emphasis on young and emerging talent  a journey of discovering India's vast and diverse art scene through visits to artists' studios, galleries, museums, art schools, and the homes of important collectors. Works of a host of celebrated artists including Tyeb Mehta, Raza, Aparna Caur, Laxman Shresta, among others, adorn the walls of the bank's offices in Mumbai.



The Deutsche Bank Collection also includes works by younger generations of artists from India, such as Dayanita Singh, Gauri Gill or Raqs Media Collective, which are on view in the Bank's premises in Frankfurt, London, and New York.



www.db.com/india



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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Surat (Gujarat) [India], January 22: The grand consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Monday, and the entire country is immersed in the devotion of Lord Ram ahead of the much-awaited event. The name of an 11-year-old girl from Surat has been added to the list of people who have contributed to the construction of Ram Temple. The young child, a well-known spiritual and motivational speaker, has donated Rs. 50 lakh to Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust.



The Trust launched a campaign to collect funds for the construction of the Ram Temple in 2021. Bhavika had resolved to contribute funds for the temples construction. Her dedication to the cause became evident as she conducted Ramkathas at many places and raised Rs. 50 lakh, which was donated to Govindgiri Maharaj, the trusts treasure.



What makes Bhavikas contribution particularly noteworthy is her ability to inspire other young children to donate to the cause from their piggy banks. The contribution of Rs. 50 lakh in the collection drive of Rs. 3,200 crore for the temple adds a unique and heartening dimension to her efforts.



At a time when the young generation under the influence of the Western culture, is busy spending time on mobile phones, creating reels and watching web series, Bhavikas efforts to spread the Indian culture among the masses is truly inspirational.



Even during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic, Bhavika displayed compassion by visiting isolation centres, providing spiritual solace through her spiritual discourses. She also organises programmes to address issues such as suicide prevention. She also organised a Vichar Shuddhi discourse in Surats Lajpor central jail to help purify the thoughts of 3,150 inmates.



Bhavika has travelled more than 50,000 km across the country and organised 300 programmes to raise awareness about national consciousness and other topics of national interest among people. She has authored three books and has raised appreciation from the President of India Droupadi Murmu, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, and many chief ministers. Many ministers and other political leaders have encouraged her by highlighting her social media posts. She is the recipient of the International Ramayana Award in addition to various national awards.



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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Kolkata, Jan 22 (PTI) Actor turned West Bengal minister Bratya Basu said that a film directed by him may have featured incidents of a real-life gangster of the 1990s during the Left Front rule in the state, but the reference to the relations between politicians and criminals in it has nothing to do with his political inclination.

Basu, a senior leader of the ruling Trinamool Congress, was talking about 'Hubba', a Bengali film on Shyamal Das known as Hubba Shyamal who was killed in a gang fight in June 2011 in Hooghly district, his base. The movie was released last week.

"My political orientation did not influence the references made in the film. My intention has not been to target the then-ruling party in the state. I just touched on the issue," the education minister told PTI.

The acclaimed theatre personality said many Bollywood gangster films follow a pattern showing the politician-underworld nexus.

"I dont believe in such a formula. If you watch international gangster films like Brazilian work 'City of God' or a South African film the name of which I cannot remember at this moment, there is no reference to any such nexus. Hubba followed that tradition," he said.

Basu said the idea to make a film on 'Hubba Shyamal' struck him when he read a book by IPS officer Supratim Sarkar, in which he had narrated the incidents of real-life criminals whom he had come across during his career.

"I read that book in between the shoots of my earlier film 'Dictionary' and decided to make a film on the life of Hubba - his rise, his family life. Though violence has been figured to a great extent in this film, that is not all," he said.

Hubba Shyamal was involved in the real estate business and he was not directly associated with any political party, said Basu who had met many people for his research on the project with the help of police sources.

Basu said he thought about casting Bangladeshi superstar Mosharraf Karim in the role of the gangster immediately after he decided to do the film.

"Mosharaf Karim is a versatile actor who delivered a power-packed performance in 'Dictionary'. I thought he would fit for the role," Basu said.

'Hubba' was also released in Bangladesh and is getting a good response there, as well as in West Bengal, he said.

It is an encouraging sign for film producers in both countries in the wake of the rising popularity of Bangladeshi actors like Karim after OTT came in a big way during Covid time, Basu said.
Islamabad, Jan 22 (PTI) Pakistan on Monday said the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is indicative of growing majoritarianism in India.

The remarks by Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO) came after the new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday in an event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Developments of the last 31 years, leading to todays consecration ceremony, are indicative of growing majoritarianism in India. These constitute an important facet of the ongoing efforts for social, economic and political marginalisation of the Indian Muslims, the FO said in a statement.

In 2019, the Supreme Court delivered a landmark verdict paving the way for the construction of Ram Mandir.

The five-judge Constitution bench also directed the Centre to allot a five-acre plot to the Sunni Waqf Board in Ayodhya to build a mosque.

The rising tide of Hindutva ideology in India poses a serious threat to religious harmony and regional peace, according to the FO.

Pakistan also asked the government of India to ensure the safety and security of religious minorities, including Muslims and their holy places.
Last November, the Russian series The Word of the Boy. Blood on the Asphalt, which romanticizes the USSR, robbery, and crime. The project is openly propagandistic, but fans from Ukraine have found many excuses for it. However, there is at least one nuance that cannot be denied or shielded in any way: the actors of the series support the Russian occupiers and the war in Ukraine. For example, Nikita Kologryvyi, who plays Koshchei, recorded a pathetic thank-you note to the terrorists and murderers for "protection and security."

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It is unknown from whom or what exactly the occupiers are protecting Nikita. His video message to the invaders was probably recorded in the summer or early fall of 2023, but it has only just gone viral in propaganda publics.

Kologryvyi expressed his admiration for the participants of the so-called "special operation". He also did so in a military uniform, as he was on the set of a remake of another propaganda film, In August '44.

"Dear friends, dear brothers, fighters! What I would like to say to us, the artists. We are now playing your fates in wartime, trying to do it honestly. And, to be honest, we are grateful that we can safely engage in our work, our profession. And this security is provided by you on the front line. So, what can I say? Thank you very much for taking our places there. Stay healthy! We are waiting for you to come home," said the Z-patriot and star of The Boy's Word.

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As a reminder, the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine first reacted to the distribution of the Russian series in the Ukrainian media space. Viewers were urged to avoid popularizing and watching film products of a hostile country, as it finances the war and promotes Kremlin narratives. The official statement reiterated that The Word of the Boy contains Russian propaganda.

Later, representatives of the Ukrainian State Film Agency also commented on the hype in the Ukrainian information space around the Russian propaganda series. They noted that the distribution and demonstration of a Russian film product "is clearly regarded as a violation of the law, which is punishable."

The remarks also concerned media professionals who "consciously or unconsciously play along with the occupiers" by advertising Russian content of the terrorist country. Among them is the well-known blogger Anna Alkhim, who boasted that she was watching a Russian TV series.

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The film, by the way, stars the son of the main critic of the Putin regime, musician and frontman of the Time Machine band Andrey Makarevich.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Colombo, Jan 22 (PTI) Sri Lanka's Catholic church has decided to move towards declaring as saints all the 273 people, including 11 Indians, killed in the 2019 Easter Sunday suicide bombings on its fifth anniversary.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo, announced the move while addressing a mass on Sunday.

A person can be named a saint only after the completion of 5 years since ones sacrifice. Therefore, we will move towards declaring Easter Sunday victims as saints on April 21 this year," Ranjith said.

On April 21, 2019, nine suicide bombers belonging to the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels in Sri Lanka.

"Those who died in churches in April 2019 sacrificed their lives for what they believed in. They came to church because they believed in Christ," Ranjith said.

Over the last 5 years, Ranjith was at loggerheads with the government seeking justice for the victims. He slammed all investigations as a sham and a political cover-up.

He has asked for an international investigation into the attacks. The government says it has arrested hundreds of people and the legal proceedings are moving forward.

Previously, it was known that 270 people had died in the attacks.

The then president Maithripala Sirisena and his top defence hierarchy were accused of inaction to prevent the attack despite the availability of prior intelligence from India.

Sirisena and the police top brass were ordered to pay compensation to the victims by the court. Reportedly, only part payments had been made so far.

Sirisena denies the charge and blames the then defence establishment for the lapse which led to the coordinated attacks.

The catholic church has a long process leading to sainthood.
Jerusalem, Jan 22 (AP) Saudi Arabia's foreign minister says the kingdom will not normalise relations with Israel or contribute to Gaza's reconstruction without a credible pathway to a Palestinian state.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan's remarks in an interview with CNN broadcast late Sunday were some of the most direct yet from Saudi officials. It puts them at odds with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has rejected Palestinian statehood and described plans for open-ended military control over Gaza.

The dispute over Gaza's future  coming as the war still rages with no end in sight  pits the United States and its Arab allies against Israel and poses a major obstacle to any plans for postwar governance or reconstruction in Gaza.

Before the October 7 Hamas attack that triggered the war, the US had been trying to broker a landmark agreement in which Saudi Arabia would normalise relations with Israel in exchange for US security guarantees, aid in establishing a civilian nuclear programme in the kingdom, and progress toward resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In September, Netanyahu had said Israel was at the cusp of such a deal, which he said would transform the Middle East.

In the interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS, the host asked: Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

That's the only way we're going to get a benefit, Prince Faisal replied. So, yes.

Earlier in the interview, when asked if oil-rich Saudi Arabia would finance reconstruction in Gaza  where Israel's air and ground offensive has devastated vast swaths of the impoverished territory, Prince Faisal gave a similar answer.

As long as we're able to find a pathway to a solution, a resolution, a pathway that means that we're not going to be here again in a year or two, then we can talk about anything, he said.

But if we are just resetting to the status quo before October 7, in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, we're not interested in that conversation.

The Palestinians seek a state that would include Gaza, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war.

Israel views all of Jerusalem as its capital and the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people. It has built scores of settlements across both territories that are home to hundreds of thousands of Jewish settlers. The last of several rounds of peace talks broke down nearly 15 years ago. (AP) PY

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Kyiv, Jan 22 (AP) Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk arrived in Ukraine's capital on Monday for talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on how Poland can keep supporting the country's almost two-year war with Russia and resolve a dispute between the neighbouring nations over grain shipments and trucking.

Tusk, who returned to power in Poland last month and is keen to show that a change in government won't bring a change in Ukraine policy, was also due to meet with Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal.

There are some conflicts of interest, we know it well and we will talk about them, but not only in the spirit of friendship, which is obvious, but with the attitude to solve these problems as soon as possible, not to maintain or multiply them, Tusk said, according to comments posted on X, formerly Twitter, by his office.

For me, it is very important to build the feeling that Poland is the most reliable, most stable ally of Ukraine in this deadly clash with evil, Tusk said.

His visit took place the day after Moscow-installed officials in eastern Ukraine reported that Ukrainian shelling killed at least 27 people on the outskirts of a Russian-occupied city. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called the shelling outside Donetsk a monstrous terrorist act, and the Russia-backed local authorities declared a day of mourning.

The Ukrainian military, however, denied it had anything to do with the attack.

It was not immediately possible to verify either side's claims.

Ukraine's allies have in recent weeks sought to reassure the country that they are committed to its long-term defense against the Kremlin's forces amid concerns that Western support could be sagging. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and France's new foreign minister also traveled to Kyiv recently.

Located on NATO's eastern flank, Poland has been one of Ukraine's strongest allies in its fight to defeat Russia. The government in Warsaw has provided weapons and humanitarian aid, and opened its borders to Ukrainian refugees since Moscow's troops invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022.

But relations soured last year as economic competition from Ukrainian food producers and truckers angered Poles who said their livelihoods were under threat.

Polish farmers and truckers blockaded border crossings, causing backups and threatening the flow of some aid going into Ukraine.

Polish farmers complained that imports of Ukrainian foods had caused prices to fall, hurting their incomes, while truckers said they were being undercut by their Ukrainian counterparts. The issue surfaced during the war as Ukrainian ports were blocked and food producers turned to road routes through Europe to get their products to market.

At one point, Poland and some other European nations banned Ukrainian grain imports because of the trade dispute.

Poland's farmers and trucks have ended their protests for now, but Tusk is seeking ways of addressing their concerns. He has said that his country wants to help Ukraine economically but not at the expense of Polish businesses. He has suggested that Ukraine needs to better regulate its trucking industry.

Tusk was also scheduled to honour Ukrainian fighters and attend observances of the Day of Ukraine's Unity, which marks Ukraine's long struggle to be independent from both its eastern and western neighbours.

In other war-related developments, Ukraine's air force said it intercepted all eight Shahed drones that Russia launch overnight over southern and central regions of Ukraine.

Debris from three drones shot down over the central Dnipropetrovsk region started a fire at an unnamed business but no human casualties were reported.

Meanwhile, major Ukrainian digital banking platform Monobank said it came under a massive denial-of-service (DoS) attack by unidentified hackers.

The attack was successfully repelled, the bank said, with no major consequences. (AP)

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Islamabad, Jan 22 (PTI) Pakistan and Iran have "mutually agreed" to reinstate their ambassadors in each other's country, the Foreign Office (FO) said on Monday, restoring bilateral ties downgraded following last week's tit-for-tat attacks on each other's territory.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian will also visit the country on January 29 at the invitation of cash-strapped Pakistan's Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, the FO said in a statement.

Tensions escalated between Islamabad and Tehran after Pakistan conducted "precision military strikes" against what it called "terrorist hideouts" in Iran's Siestan-Balochistan province that killed 9 people in the wee hours on Thursday.

The attack was seen as retaliation to Iranian missile and drone attacks last Tuesday on two bases of the Sunni Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan's unruly Balochistan province.

Following the telephone conversation between the foreign ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by January 26, 2024, the statement said.

Information Minister Murtaza Solangi said Jilani deserves all the credit for his visionary engagement and managing possibly one of the fastest de-escalations of the diplomatic history.

The development comes amidst the reported visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Sun Weidong to Pakistan on a mediation mission.

China on Monday said it is maintaining close contacts with Pakistan and Iran to bridge their differences after the two nations conducted airstrikes against each other last week.

China on Thursday last offered to play a constructive role to ease tension between Islamabad and Tehran after relations between Iran and Pakistan nose-dived following the strikes.

The attacks have put China in a piquant situation as Pakistan is an all-weather ally, while Iran is warming up to Beijing in recent years enabling Beijing to expand its influence in the West Asia region.
London, Jan 22 (AP) UK health officials on Monday urged millions of parents to book their children in for missed measles, mumps and rubella shots amid a sharp increase in the number of measles cases and the lowest vaccination rates in a decade.

The National Health Service was launching a publicity campaign after figures showed there have been 216 confirmed measles cases and 103 probable cases in parts of England since October. Most cases were in children under 10 years old.

The combined measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine is offered in the UK in two doses to all children, first at 12 months old and then again at 3 years old. Vaccination rates have dropped down to about 85% nationally, and far lower in parts of London, according to UK Health Security Agency chief executive Jenny Harries.

That is "too low to maintain safe population coverage  we want that at about 95%," as advised by the World Health Organisation, she said.

Public health officials say that more than 3.4 million children under 16 years old are unprotected and at risk of catching the diseases.

Measles was declared eliminated in the UK in 2017, meaning the disease was no longer native to the country.

But cases have crept up since then, and officials said that outbreaks can take place anywhere where the vaccine coverage is below the 95% needed to achieve herd immunity.

WHO and the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said in November that measles deaths globally spiked by more than 40% last year, and cases rose after vaccination levels dramatically dropped during the pandemic.

Measles is among the most infectious diseases known and spreads in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It's most common in children under 5. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and a distinctive rash.

Infection can lead to permanent physical damage such as deafness. Most deaths are due to complications like encephalitis, severe dehydration, serious breathing problems and pneumonia. (AP) SCY

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Lahore, Jan 22 (PTI) A Pakistani court on Monday turned down a request of former prime minister Imran Khan seeking immediate suspension of his jail trial in a contempt case initiated by the country's top electoral body.

In 2022, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) initiated contempt proceedings against the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) founder for allegedly using "intemperate language" against the chief election commissioner and the electoral watchdog.

At the outset of the petition, Lahore High Court (LHC) full bench headed by Justice Aalia Neelum asked Khan's counsel about an office objection to the petition that they did not furnish certified copies of the documents.

In response, Advocate Ishtiaq A Khan said the certified copies were not provided to them; instead, they obtained copies from the website of the ECP. Justice Neelum remarked that the case cannot proceed until the objection is removed. She also asked the counsel how the jurisdiction of the LHC is established against the order of the ECP Islamabad office.

The lawyer argued that the LHC has the jurisdiction to hear the matter. The judge remarked that the petitioner should have approached the Islamabad High Court or the Rawalpindi bench of the LHC.

The counsel pointed out that the Rawalpindi bench of the LHC referred a similar case for hearing on the principal seat.

Justice Neelum noted that there were no judges available to form a bench in Rawalpindi, therefore, the matter is referred to the principal seat.

Advocate Khan argued that federal matters can also be challenged in a provincial high court. He said the ECP neither has power to punish someone for its contempt nor the jail trial falls under its jurisdiction. He said proceedings for the indictment had been commenced against the PTI founding chairman.

Justice Neelum asked the counsel about the notification of the jail trial.

The lawyer said there is no notification for the jail trial, yet the trial has been started. Justice Shahram Sarwar Chaudhry, another member of the bench, questioned how this can be possible without a notification, as even a bird in jail cannot move without one.

Asked about the notification, a lawyer for the ECP told the full bench that the notification of the jail trial had been issued by the home department on Dec 8. The bench asked the petitioners counsel if he intends to challenge the notification of the jail trial.

The counsel expressed his willingness to challenge the notification of the jail trial and asked the bench to fix the case again.

The counsel requested the court to suspend the jail trial of the former premier as an interim relief. However, the bench turned down the request to immediately suspend the jail trial.

"The court cannot suspend a notification which has not been challenged before it, the bench said and issued a notice to the ECP for submission of a reply and adjourned the hearing for a date to be fixed later.

Khan,71, who is facing multiple cases has been incarcerated at high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi since August last year.
Kathmandu, Jan 22 (PTI) People in Nepal's Madhesh province on Monday celebrated with enthusiasm and joy the consecration of 'Ram Lalla' in Ayodhya.

Nepal's Janakpurdham, the birthplace of goddess Sita, on Monday, decked up for the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, with temple authorities decorating the Janaki temple with garlands and flowers.

Hindus in Janakpurdham, who joined the celebrations with multiple cultural and religious festivities, wrote "Jai Siyaram" with flowers.

Lord Rams wife Seetas other name is Janaki, daughter of King Janak of Janakpur. It is 500-odd km east of Ayodhya in India and has been a symbol of the ancient bond shared by the two countries.

Houses and streets of Janakpur are being decorated with colourful lights, paper flags, banners and garlands, local authorities said.

As many as 1.25 lakh earthen lamps were lit to celebrate the auspicious occasion of 'pran pratistha'.

In Madhesh province's Sarlahi district too, people illuminated their houses, recited religious songs, and played music with the songs in praise of Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, said Rakesh Mishra, central member of Janamat Party.

They also took out religious processions and offered prayers at major temples in the region.

The celebrations took place mainly in eight districts in Madhesh province -- Dhanusha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, Siraha, Saptari, Bara, Parsa and Rautahat.

Besides these eight districts people living in all the districts adjoined to the Indian border, including Sunsari, Morang, Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Banke, and Bardiya among others, also joined the celebration, he said.
Jerusalem, Jan 22 (AP) Dozens of family members of hostages held by Hamas stormed a committee meeting in Israel's parliament Monday, demanding a deal to win their loved ones' release, as European foreign ministers joined growing international calls for Israel to negotiate on the creation of a Palestinian state after the war.

The developments showed the increasing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has dug in on both fronts. He has insisted to the Israeli public that pursuing the devastating offensive in Gaza is the only way to bring the hostages home. At the same time, he has rejected the United States' vision for a postwar resolution, saying he will never allow a Palestinian state.

The dispute over Gaza's future  as the war rages with no end in sight  pits Israel against its top ally, the United States, as well as much of the international community. It also poses a major obstacle to any plans for postwar governance or reconstruction of the coastal territory, large parts of which have been left unlivable by Israeli bombardment.

In the most direct comments yet from Saudi Arabia, the kingdom's top diplomat said it will not normalise relations with Israel or contribute to Gaza's reconstruction without a credible path to a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu has vowed to continue the offensive until complete victory over Hamas and to return all remaining hostages after the Oct 7 rampage in southern Israel that triggered the war. In that attack, some 1,200 people were killed and Hamas and other militants abducted around 250 people.

But more than three months into the war, Israelis are increasingly divided on the question of whether it's possible to do both.

Around 100 hostages were freed under a weeklong cease-fire deal in November in exchange for the release of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Around 130 remain captive, but a number have since been confirmed dead.

Hamas has said it will free more captives only in exchange for an end to the war and the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu has ruled out such an agreement.

Anger has been growing among hostages' families. Relatives of hostages, as well as other protesters, have set up a tent camp outside Netanyahu's residence in Jerusalem and vowed to remain until a deal is reached to bring the rest of the captives home. Other protests have called for new elections.

On Monday, dozens of family members of the hostages stormed into a gathering of the Knesset's finance committee, holding up signs and yelling, You won't sit here while they are dying there!

These are our children! they shouted. We can't continue with any other agenda, we need to discuss only one thing right now!

Some had to be physically restrained as they shouted at the lawmakers, and at least one person was escorted out. The meeting was briefly suspended but later reconvened.

OVER 25,000 KILLED IN GAZA

Israel's offensive has killed at least 25,295 Palestinians in Gaza and wounded more than 60,000, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children.

Medics reported heavy fighting in the southern city of Khan Younis, saying dozens of dead and wounded people were brought to the city's already overwhelmed Nasser Hospital. Families could be seen fleeing south, to areas already packed with hundreds of thousands of displaced people.

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 residential areas.

Some 85% of Gaza's 2.3 million people have fled their homes, seeking elusive shelter in the south as Israel continues to strike all parts of the besieged enclave. UN officials say 1 in 4 people in Gaza are starving as the fighting and Israeli restrictions hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The war has also stoked tensions across the region, with Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen attacking Israeli and US targets.

NETANYAHU UNDER MOUNTING PRESSURE

Natanyahu, whose popularity has plummeted since Oct 7, faces pressure from the US to shift to more precise military operations and do more to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The United States is also pushing him on its vision for postwar Gaza, calling for a reformed Palestinian Authority to govern the territory and for negotiations to start on a two-state solution. The authority currently governs pockets of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and was ejected from Gaza in 2007 when Hamas took power.

But Netanyahu's governing coalition is beholden to far-right parties that want to step up the offensive, encourage the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and re-establish Jewish settlements there. Netanyahu has rejected the entry of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and ruled out any Palestinian state, saying it would endanger Israel.

At a meeting about the war Monday in Brussels, European Union foreign ministers added their voices to the calls for a Palestinian state, saying it was the only way to achieve peace.

French Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Sejourne said Netanyahu's rejection of statehood was worrying. There will be a need for a Palestinian state with security guarantees for all.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind?" EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said of Israel. To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill them off?

The comments late Sunday by Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, were notable because before the war, the US had been trying to broker a landmark agreement in which Saudi Arabia would normalise relations with Israel. In September, Netanyahu said Israel was on the cusp of a deal.

In an interview with CNN, host Fareed Zakaria asked: Are you saying unequivocally that if there is not a credible and irreversible path to a Palestinian state, there will not be normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel?

That's the only way we're going to get a benefit, Prince Faisal replied. So, yes.

When asked if oil-rich Saudi Arabia would finance reconstruction in Gaza, he said, As long as we're able to find a pathway to a solution...then we can talk about anything.

But if we are just resetting to the status quo before Oct 7, in a way that sets us up for another round of this, as we have seen in the past, we're not interested in that conversation.

The Palestinians seek a state that would include Gaza, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Mideast war.

Israel views all of Jerusalem as its capital and the West Bank as the historical and biblical heartland of the Jewish people. It has built scores of settlements across both territories that are home to hundreds of thousands of Jewish settlers. Peace talks broke down nearly 15 years ago. (AP) SCY

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Washington, Jan 22 (AP) The Federal Aviation Administration recommends that airlines inspect the door plugs on certain Boeing 737s that are older than the Max 9 jetliner that suffered a blowout of a similar panel during a flight this month.

The FAA said door plugs on one older version of the 737, called the 737-900ER, are identical in design to those on the Max 9, and some airlines have noted findings with bolts during the maintenance inspections.

The FAA issued a safety alert late Sunday. As soon as possible, airlines should visually inspect four places where a bolt, nut and pin secure the door plug to the plane, the agency said.

The door plugs are panels that seal holes left for extra doors when the number of seats is not enough to trigger a requirement for more emergency-evacuation exits. From inside the plane, they look like a regular window.

The FAA said that 737-900ERs have logged 3.9 million flights without any known issues involving the door plugs. By contrast, the Max 9 that suffered the blowout had made only 145 flights.

One of the two door plugs on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 flew off the plane in midflight on January 5. Passengers and investigators have described a violent decompression as air rushed out of the pressured cabin at 16,000 feet over Oregon.

The plane made an emergency landing with a hole in its side, and no serious injuries were reported. On a mostly full plane, no one was sitting in the two seats nearest the panel that blew out.

The FAA has grounded all Max 9s with door plugs instead of regular doors in the back of the cabin. Alaska and United Airlines are the only US carriers to use the plane.

Besides grounding 171 Max 9 jets, the FAA is investigating quality-control measures at Boeing and its suppliers and has increased its oversight of the aircraft maker. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the Oregon incident.

We fully support the FAA and our customers in this action, a Boeing spokeswoman said in a statement Monday.

Boeing delivered about 500 737-900ERs between 2007 and 2019  mostly to U.S. airlines -- and about 380 have door plugs instead of exits.(AP)



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Jerusalem, Jan 22 (AP) Relatives of more than 100 Israeli hostages still held in Gaza have stepped up their protests, disrupting a parliament committee meeting on Monday yelling, You won't sit here while they are dying there!

And outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's home in Jerusalem, hostages' family members have set up tents and are vowing to stay until the Israeli government reaches a deal to free at least some of the hostages.

The mounting pressure on Netanyahu comes as heavy fighting is scouring Gaza's southern city of Khan Younis. Palestinian medics say dozens of dead and wounded people were brought to the city's already overwhelmed Nasser Hospital.

Communication services across Gaza dropped late Monday due to the ongoing fighting  the 10th telecoms blackout during the war  cutting the besieged territory off from the outside world.

Gaza's Health Ministry says more than 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, which started when militants from Gaza attacked southern Israel on Oct 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages.

UN officials say one in four people in Gaza are starving as the fighting and Israeli restrictions hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid to the impoverished coastal enclave, home to 2.3 million Palestinians.

Currently:

 Iran is directly involved ' in ship attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels, US Navy commander tells AP.

 US military ends rescue search for Navy SEALs lost in raid on ship with Iranian weapons.

 US sanctions Iraqi airline, its CEO and Hamas cryptocurrency financiers.

 Strike kills Hezbollah fighter, civilian in Lebanon, amid seeming Israeli shift to targeted killings.

 Palestinian death toll in Gaza surpasses 25,000 while Israel announces the death of another hostage.



GAZA LOSES PHONE AND INTERNET SERVICE IN TENTH BLACKOUT OF WAR

RAMALLAH, West Bank  Communication services across the Gaza Strip have dropped due to ongoing fighting, cutting the besieged territory off from the outside world, the Palestinian telecoms provider Paltel said Monday.

We regret to announce that telecom services in Gaza Strip have been lost, Paltel said in a post on X. Gaza is blacked out again for the 10th time since October 7th due to the ongoing and escalating aggression.

Communication services in Gaza partially returned on Friday following a weeklong blackout. During that time, Palestinians from the enclave often walked miles from their homes or places of shelter hunting for a signal to send message friends and loved ones.

The telecommunications company is used by people in both the Israeli-occupied West Bank and The Gaza Strip.



US NAVY SAYS IRAN IS DIRECTLY INVOLVED' IN YEMEN'S HOUTHI REBEL ATTACKS ON SHIPS

JERUSALEM  The US Navy's top Mideast commander says Iran is very directly involved in ship attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels during Israel's war against Hamas.

Vice Adm Brad Cooper, the head of the Navy's 5th Fleet, stopped short of saying Tehran directed individual attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis link their attacks to the Israel-Hamas war.

However, Cooper acknowledged in an interview with The Associated Press on Monday that attacks associated with Iran have expanded from previously threatening just the Persian Gulf and its Strait of Hormuz into waters across the wider Middle East. He described the Houthi attacks as the most significant hostile actions against merchant shipping in two generations.

In recent days, the US has launched seven rounds of airstrikes on Houthi military sites, targeting air bases under the rebels' control and suspected missile launch sites.

So far, Iran has not directly gotten involved in fighting either Israel or the US since the war in Gaza began on Oct 7. However, Cooper maintained Iran had been directly fuelling the Houthi attacks on shipping.

What I'll say is Iran is clearly funding, they're resourcing, they are supplying and they're providing training, Cooper said. They're obviously very directly involved. There's no secret there.



EU PUSHES FOR PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD, REJECTING ISRAELI LEADER'S INSISTENCE IT'S OFF THE TABLE

BRUSSELS  European Union foreign ministers are saying they think the creation of a Palestinian state is the only credible way to achieve peace in the Middle East.

As they met in Brussels on Monday, the ministers expressed concern that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has rejected Palestinian statehood. He has also described plans for open-ended military control over Gaza.

The EU invited the foreign ministers of Israel, the Palestinians, Egypt, Jordan and a representative of the Arab League to take part in the talks.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz refused to respond when asked about the possibility of Palestinian statehood. Holding up pictures of Israeli hostages, Katz said he had come to seek support for Israel's campaign to dismantle Hamas.



US SANCTIONS IRAQI AIRLINE, ITS CEO AND HAMAS CRYPTOCURRENCY FINANCIERS

WASHINGTON  The US has hit Iraqi airline Fly Baghdad and its CEO with sanctions for allegedly providing assistance to Iran's military wing.

Additionally, the US has imposed a fifth round of sanctions on the militant group Hamas for its abuse of cryptocurrency since the Oct 7 attack on Israel.

In the new sanctions announced Monday, Treasury said Fly Baghdad and its CEO Basheer Abdulkadhim Alwan al-Shabbani have provided assistance to Iran's military wing and its proxy groups in Iraq, Syria and Lebanon. A representative from the firm was not immediately available.

The sanctions block access to US property and bank accounts and prevent the targeted people and companies from doing business with Americans.

Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control also designated three leaders and supporters of an Iran-aligned militia in Iraq, Kataib Hezbollah, as well as a business that it says moves and launders funds for the organisation.



SAUDI ARABIA SAYS IT WON'T RECOGNISE ISRAEL WITHOUT A PATH TO A PALESTINIAN STATE

JERUSALEM  Saudi Arabia's top diplomat says the kingdom will not normalise relations with Israel or contribute to Gaza's reconstruction without a credible path to a Palestinian state. That's a nonstarter for Israel's government.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan's remarks in an interview with CNN broadcast late Sunday were some of the most direct yet from Saudi officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting domestic pressure over the plight of Israeli hostages, including an angry protest inside a parliamentary committee meeting on Monday.

He has rejected Palestinian statehood and described plans for open-ended military control over Gaza. The dispute over Gaza's future pits Israel against its top ally, the United States, as well as much of the international community. (AP) SCY

SCY
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a decree on the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by Ukrainians. The document refers to Krasnodar Krai, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov regions of the Russian Federation.

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The Head of State instructed to develop cooperation between Ukrainians and the peoples enslaved by Russia. This is stated in Decree No. 17/2024 on the website of the President's Office.

In his decree, Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia has systematically committed and continues to commit actions aimed at destroying national identity, oppressing Ukrainians, and violating their rights and freedoms for centuries. In particular, the President mentioned Ukrainians in the historically inhabited lands in the Kuban, Starodubshchyna, Northern and Eastern Slobozhanshchyna within the modern Russian regions.

The President instructed the government to develop an action plan to preserve the national identity of Ukrainians in Russia with the involvement of international experts, representatives of the World Congress of Ukrainians, scholars, and the public, and to submit it to the National Security and Defense Council.

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The decree states that this work should include collecting and studying facts and evidence of crimes committed against Ukrainians living in the territories of the Russian Federation historically inhabited by ethnic Ukrainians. Zelenskyy also instructed to study the policy of forced Russification, political repression and deportation of Ukrainians, and the restoration and preservation of historical memory.

The presidential decree also states that it is necessary to intensify work to counter disinformation and Russian propaganda on the history of Ukrainians in Russia and all the peoples enslaved by it. In particular, this includes preparing and conducting events aimed at debunking Russian myths about Ukraine.

To recap, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will submit a draft law on multiple citizenship to the Verkhovna Rada. This will allow ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to obtain Ukrainian citizenship.

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Earlier, 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. According to the President, millions of Ukrainians continue to do important work to fight the aggressor.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Johri is the former chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
Patna, Jan 22 (PTI) The opposition BJP in Bihar has accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U), an ally turned adversary, of sabotaging its plans to celebrate the birth anniversary of legendary socialist leader Karpoori Thakur here later this week.

State BJP president Samrat Choudhary has threatened to stage a demonstration in front of the JD(U) office here on January 24, taking exception to the ruling party putting up tents at the Miller High School ground where the saffron party had sought administrative clearance for holding its event.

"The JD(U) is holding its own function at the veterinary college ground, which is a few kilometres away. Why does it then need another ground elsewhere for its workers coming from outside the state", an indignant Choudhary asked.

He alleged that though the BJP had planned the event way back in November when it had also moved the requisite application before the district administration, the JD(U) used its clout to get both grounds booked for itself.

However, senior JD(U) leader and Bihar minister Ashok Chaudhary rejected the charge, saying "It is not in our character to put hurdles in the way of other programmes planned by other parties. We are not occupying the Millar High School ground without any authorization. If the BJP thinks the administration should not have allowed us to bring our party workers here, then we cannot help it".

Choudhary also pointed out, "We had organized a Bhim Sansad in November which attracted huge crowds. The venue was the same veterinary college ground but party workers were put up at the same Millar High School ground. We cannot leave our workers to fend for themselves in the biting cold. If BJP wants to create a scene, we can only express regret".

The district administration has, so far, remained tight-lipped on the controversy involving the two parties, one in power and the other a partner until Nitish Kumar snapped ties with the BJP less than two years ago.

Notably, Thakur, who served as Chief Minister of Bihar in the 1970s, had been a mentor to many current generation leaders of the state, including Nitish Kumar and his ally Lalu Prasad, the RJD president.

His tenure is best remembered for implementation of the recommendations of Mungeri Lal Commission, whereby quotas for backward classes were introduced in the state, much before the 1990s' Mandal Commission changed the national political contours.

A highlight of the Mungeri Lal Commission was a separate sub-category called Most Backward Classes, which provided the template for the "ati pichhda" plank built by Nitish Kumar years later.

Following last year's caste survey, followed by a hike in quotas for all deprived castes, Kumar, who assumed his party's presidentship last month, aims to galvanize the extremely backward classes (EBCs).

On January 24, he is likely to visit Thakur's ancestral home in Samastipur district, a practice he has followed for many years, and also address the party function at the veterinary college ground.

The BJP, which seeks to transcend its "pro-upper caste" image and surmount the formidable challenge posed by the combo of Nitish and Lalu, who brings on the table a solid chunk of Yadav and Muslim votes, hopes to win over a slice of the EBCs, who have been politically unorganised despite their formidable numbers.

To this end, the party has been highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's EBC status and charging the JD(U) supremo with capitulation before the domineering RJD, to the detriment of the "ati pichhda" castes.
Kolkata, Jan 22 (PTI) Nearly three years after a murder convict was released from jail based on some documents which turned out to be fake, he was arrested by the West Bengal CID on Monday, an officer said here.

Lalu Sheikh, who was convicted in a 2015 murder case and was serving a life sentence, was arrested from Bharatpur in Murshidabad district of the state.

A fake bail order of the Calcutta High Court dated March 2, 2021, was manufactured and placed before the Kandi court of the district on March 6 of the same year by a lawyer who appeared on behalf of Sheikh, the officer said.

"The Kandi court considered that document as original and ordered his release on bail," he said.

After it was found that the bail order was forged, a criminal case was lodged at the Kandi Police Station and the Calcutta High Court directed the CID to investigate the case.

Lalu Sheikhs son and the lawyer who had helped the convict get the forged bail order were arrested in the course of the investigation, the officer said.

"Sheikh had been absconding for quite some time. On early Monday, our team of officers arrested him," he added.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) Top BJP leaders, including Union ministers, on Monday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi after consecration of Ram Lalla idol at the newly built temple in Ayodhya and said it was an unforgettable day for Ram devotees.

The new Ram Lalla idol was consecrated at the Ayodhya temple on Monday, an event led by Prime Minister Modi and watched by lakhs of people on television and social media at their homes and in temples across the country.

Army helicopters showered flower petals on the newly constructed Janmabhoomi temple as the pran pratishtha ceremony took place -- a seminal occasion in India's political and religious history.

Jai Shri Ram. The wait and resolve of five centuries was fulfilled today. It is an unforgettable day for the crores of Ram devotees today, Home Minister Amit Shah said in a post on X after the event.

He said many generations passed waiting for this moment but no fear and terror could shake the resolve and faith to build the temple again at Ram Janmabhoomi (birthplace of Lord Ram).

Today, this resolve stands fulfilled under the leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. For this, I express my gratitude to him from the bottom of my heart, Shah added.

The home minister further said, Today, when our Ram Lalla was seated in his grand temple, I too was overwhelmed with emotions like countless Ram devotees. It is not possible to capture this feeling in words.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the event in Ayodhya as a "revolutionary work" and said those who witnessed this moment are fortunate.

"This is a revolutionary work happening," Singh told reporters here.

"Everyone feels that a new era is beginning. As a result of Ram Lalla's Pran Pratishtha, we all are feeling that after a long time, Maryada Purushottam Ram is returning again to Ayodhya," he added.

Singh said the pran pratishtha of Ram Lallas idol in Ayodhya is a matter of great joy for all of us.

We all are fortunate that we are getting the opportunity to witness the moment," he said, adding, "Our prime minister has started a new era. And, he has the blessings of Lord Ram."

In his remarks, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the soul of a civilisation found expression once again with the 'pran pratishtha' of Ram Lallas idol at his temple in Ayodhya.

At the Pran Pratishtha ceremony today, the soul of a civilisation finds expression once again. And the message of virtue, honour, justice and commitment reverberates around the world, Jaishankar wrote on X.

BJP chief J P Nadda called it an emotional sacred moment and said Prime Minister Modi installed the idol of prabhu (Ram Lalla) fulfilling his duties, following 11-day strict rituals.

Its an emotional sacred moment today after more than 500 years of continuous struggle. Lord Shri Ram Lalla has been consecrated in the dharma nagri of Shri Ayodhyadham as per the rituals. It is the utmost fortunate moment for our generation that we are witness to this moment, he wrote on X.

Respected Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji installed the idol of prabhu (Ram Lalla) fulfilling his duties, following 11-day strict rituals. Along with Ayodhya, every village, city, country, the entire world is soaked in devotion to Lord Ram, he said.

On this occasion. Nadda also gave a call to people to dedicate their lives to the ideals and life values of Lord Ram and to the countrys society and culture as well.

Come, let us all dedicate ourselves to the ideals and life values of Bhagwan Shri Ram as well as to the society and culture, he said.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) A judicial officer was on Monday elevated as an additional judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court while two additional judges of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court were made permanent judges.

The name of judicial officer Arvind Kumar Verma was recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium on January 4.

Justices Rahul Bharti and Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, additional judges of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, were made permanent judges. Their names were also recommended by the collegium on January 4.

The appointments were announced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on X.

The Supreme Court Collegium had also recommended the name of Abhay Ahuja, additional judge of the Bombay High Court, for elevation as a permanent judge on the same day.

Additional judges are usually appointed for a period of two years before being made a judge or what is popularly called a "permanent judge".
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) Police personnel were deployed outside the Jamia Millia

Islamia on Monday as a precaution after a video of two to three students raising slogans such as "Strike for Babri" surfaced online, officials said.

The deployment came on the day of the consecration of the new idol of Ram Lalla at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The temple has been built at the site where the 16th Century Babri Masjid once stood, before being demolished by a frenzied mob of 'karsevaks' in 1992.

"The deployment of police personnel outside (the university) is a precautionary measure," a police official said and added that it was done in view of the Ram temple consecration ceremony and upcoming Republic Day.

The official said apparently, a protest was organised inside the campus. Nothing happened outside, the official said.

The Jamia Millia Islamia administration said academic activity was not disrupted because of the "protest". The situation is under control, it said.

"It was just two to three students who engaged in sloganeering. Classes and examination continued without any disruption," an official of the university told PTI.

To a question if two persons had been detained, the police official said no one has been detained. PTI SJJ ALK









ANB

ANB
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) A 12-year-old boy died at a hospital days after he was allegedly thrashed by his seniors in a government school in Shastri Nagar area of north Delhi, police said on Monday.

The incident took place on January 11 and the child died on January 20 during treatment, they said.

The victim's father, Rahul Sharma, said his son was assaulted by his seniors in the school and he received injuries on his leg.

"On January 11, when my son, a student of class 6, returned home from the government school, he was limping and was in extreme pain. I asked him about the matter, but he kept mum," Sharma told PTI over phone.

"We took him to a hospital where he was given some medicines and asked to rest for a few days. But his health condition deteriorated and then we took him to a hospital in Rohini," Sharma said.

Sharma further said that on January 20, he died during treatment in the hospital.

"We didn't know why he was attacked. He wanted to join the armed forces. All of his dreams shattered," the father said.

When contacted, Deputy Commissioner of Police (north) Manoj Kumar Meena confirmed the incident and said, "We are getting postmortem done through a board of doctors. Legal action would be taken accordingly."
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned to February 27 the hearing on the bail plea moved by Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Anubrata Mondal, arrested in connection with a cattle-smuggling case.

A bench of Justice Bela M Trivedi and Justice Pankaj Mithal, meanwhile, directed the lower court to proceed with the trial on February 22.

During the hearing, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing on behalf of Mondal, submitted that four charge sheets have been filed in the case and everybody is out of jail except the TMC leader.

He told the court that Mondal is in jail for one-and-half years while the main accused has got bail in the case.

"There are 309 witnesses. I am the only person who is in jail while others have got bail," Rohatgi told the court adding that the trial is not progressing in the case.

Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, appearing for the Central Bureau of Investigation, opposed the bail plea saying Mondol is a very influential person and added he was involved in tampering with evidence.

The Calcutta High Court rejected Mondal's bail plea in January last year. The Trinamool Congress leader had prayed for bail, submitting at that time that he was in custody for more than 145 days.

Holding that further investigation into the alleged amassing of illegal wealth by Mondal was continuing, the high court had said releasing him on bail at that stage would adversely affect the morale and confidence of the witnesses and seriously impact the collection of evidence.

Denying bail to Mondal, a division bench of the high court presided over by Justice Joymalya Bagchi had observed that he continued to hold a powerful political post and had an overwhelming influence not only in the society but also on the state administration.

Opposing Mondal's bail plea, it was alleged by the CBI that as a powerful political personality, the TMC leader had illegally aided and abetted cattle smuggler Enamul Haque and used his influence to ensure a smooth passage of cattle through Birbhum and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal to reach the international border in lieu of wrongful gains.

Representing Mondal, senior counsel Kapil Sibal had submitted that the main accused Enamul Haque and co-accused Satish Kumar, a senior Border Security Force (BSF) officer at the time of his arrest, were out on bail.

The CBI had claimed that Mondal was the main facilitator for the smooth transportation of cattle through the Birbhum district to Bangladesh. Mondal's counsel had stated that no such evidence was found.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) The Delhi High Court on Monday set aside an order of the Central Information Commission (CIC) that directed the disclosure of information about the PM CARES Fund to an RTI applicant.

The high court said the information sought by the RTI applicant has been sought from the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) of Income Tax Department and not from the PM CARES Fund and the department does not treat PM CARES Fund as an authority.

"Since the information sought for by the respondent (RTI applicant) relates to a third party, PM CARES Fund ought to have been heard. Section 11 of the RTI Act prescribes that any information related to a third party can only be divulged after giving notice to the said third party.

"In view of the above, the CIC ought to have followed the procedure specified under Section 11 of the RTI Act before ordering for grant of information as sought for by the respondent herein," Justice Subramonium Prasad said.

The high court allowed the petition filed by the Income Tax authority challenging the CIC's April 27, 2022 order.

The high court noted that section 138(1)(b) of the IT Act mandates that information relating to an assessee can only be supplied subject to the satisfaction of Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner or Principal Commissioner or Commissioner, as the case may be.

"The satisfaction of Principal Chief Commissioner or Chief Commissioner or Principal Commissioner or Commissioner is, therefore, necessary before such information can be divulged. That satisfaction cannot be abrogated to any other authority under a general Act for divulging the information sought for," it said.

It added that the court was of the view that "the CIC does not have the jurisdiction to direct furnishing of information, provided for in Section 138 of the IT Act. In any case, even if they had the jurisdiction, the failure to give PM CARES, notice of hearing, would in itself have vitiated the impugned.

"Accordingly, the writ petition is allowed and the order dated April 27, 2022 is set aside," Justice Prasad said in the 23-page order.

The single-judge bench had earlier noted that the issue of whether the PM Cares Fund is a public authority is presently pending before a division bench of the high court.

The respondent, RTI applicant Girish Mittal, had filed an RTI application before the Income Tax Authorities seeking certain information pertaining to an exemption application under the Income Tax Act in relation to Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund) as well as all the other exemption applications filed before the Income Tax Authority from April 1, 2019, till March 31, 2020.

The IT Department said that the CIC order, which refused information pertaining to other exemption applications but issued directions with respect to the PM CARES Fund, is contrary to the law and is inconsistent.

"It is well settled that judicial orders must follow a consistent reasoning and therefore if other exemption applications and their decisions were rejected on the ground of section 8(1)(j), there is no reason whatsoever as to why the same principle should not have governed the requests for disclosure of information in so far as Para (a) and (b) of the RTI Application is concerned which deals with a specific exemption application number relating to the PM Cares Fund," the petition said.

Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act exempts information which relates to personal information, the disclosure of which has no relationship to any public activity or interest, or which would cause unwarranted invasion of the privacy of the individual.

The petitioner stated that the information relates to a third party i.e. the PM CARES Fund, which is a registered trust and therefore the impugned order could not have been passed without hearing that party.

The respondent in the petition argued that the PM CARES Fund is a body owned and controlled by the Government of India.

In the present case, the respondent's plea for information was first rejected by the CPIO on the ground that the information sought was personal in nature and was not related to any public activity or interest, and would cause unwarranted invasion into the privacy of an individual.

The First Appellate Authority upheld the rejection while stating that PM CARES Fund did not fall within the purview of the RTI Act.

Subsequently, the respondent approached the CIC which refused to provide information pertaining to other exemption applications on the ground that it entailed disclosure of personal details of various third-party entities.

It, however, directed the CPIO to reply to the respondent indicating the factual position concerning the availability of documents in terms of paras (a) & (b) of RTI application, that is, copies of all the documents submitted in exemption application in relation to PM CARES Fund and file notings granting the approval within 15 days.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (PTI) The Supreme Court on Monday asked the authorities in Tamil Nadu to act in accordance with the law and not based on any oral instructions on "banning" special prayers and live telecast of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in all temples across the state.

A bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta, while hearing a plea seeking quashing of an "oral order" dated January 20 banning live telecast of the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya in temples across Tamil Nadu, said no one is bound to abide with the oral orders.

The bench took on record the statement of senior advocate Amit Anand Tiwari for Tamil Nadu that there are no restrictions on 'puja archana in temples or live telecast of consecration ceremony at Ayodhya.

He said the plea is politically motivated.

The bench asked the authorities to put on record the reasons and maintain the data of applications which has been allowed for Puja archana and live telecast of consecration ceremony in temples and those which have been disallowed.

The bench also sought response of the Tamil Nadu government on the plea by January 29. The plea has been filed by one Vinoj in which it has been submitted that the Tamil Nadu government run by the DMK has banned live telecast of the "pran prathishta" of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all temples across Tamil Nadu.

It is being alleged that the government has also banned all kinds of prayers, and 'annadanam' (poor feeding) 'bhajans' on the occasion.

However, Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister, P K Sekar Babu had said on Sunday that the HR and CE Department has not imposed any kind of ban for conduct of puja for Shri Ram. Also, there is no bar to distribute 'Annadhanam' and 'Prasadam.' He dismissed the claim as false news with ulterior motives.
President Volodymyr Zelensky will submit a draft law on multiple citizenship to the Verkhovna Rada. This will allow ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to obtain Ukrainian citizenship.

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At the same time, this does not apply to people from the terrorist Russian Federation. The Ukrainian leader announced such intentions during his video address on January 22 on the occasion of the Day of Unity.

"Today I am introducing a key draft law to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine that will allow for comprehensive changes to legislation and the introduction of multiple citizenship," he said.

According to him, the document will allow all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to have Ukrainian citizenship. Of course, except for the citizens of the aggressor country of Russia.

What is known about multiple citizenship?

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Multiple or dual citizenship is a citizenship in which a person is permanently recognized as a citizen of two or more countries under the laws of those countries. Currently, according to the Constitution of Ukraine (Article 4), there is only one national citizenship.

At the same time, Ukraine has been discussing the introduction of multiple citizenship, which should become an element of state policy aimed at preserving and developing the global Ukrainian community. This initiative was supported by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who noted that dual passports are becoming a necessity for many Ukrainians, including those who were forced to leave Ukraine because of the war. According to him, this decision will allow millions of our citizens abroad to keep or obtain Ukrainian passports.

"With Ukraine's accession to the European Union, Ukrainian passports will have the same status as those of neighboring European countries," he said.

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At the same time, he warned that multiple citizenship should be limited, prohibiting dual citizenship with aggressor states and unfriendly countries.

In 2020, the Verkhovna Rada postponed the discussion of the presidential draft law No. 2590 of December 13, 2019, on citizenship because parliamentary experts concluded that it was impossible to solve this problem only at the legislative level without amending the Constitution.

In December 2021, Zelenskyy submitted a bill on multiple citizenship to parliament. However, to date, there has been no progress on this issue.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, during a press conference on December 19, 2023, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine should consider multiple citizenship. He emphasized that not all of the 60 million Ukrainians live in Ukraine today, but they should not be lost.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Chennai, Jan 22 (PTI) The Madras High Court on Monday cited the Tamil Nadu government's stand over conducting Shri Ram Temple consecration related events in the state, saying no permission was needed for functions in private enclosures and held that Bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the social equilibrium.



Hours ahead of the 'Pran Pratishtha' of the grand temple at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, the HC also said it will be left open to the organisers to make arrangements for live streaming of the consecration ceremony.



Justice N Anand Venkatesh passed the order on a writ petition challenging the refusal of permission by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Avadi Division, Pattabhiram Division Incharge (first respondent) to conduct Bhajan and Annadanam on Monday at a marriage hall in Pattabhiram in the city. The petition was filed by L Ganapathy.



The State, represented by Additional Public Prosecutor A Damodharan, said functions, bhajans and Annadhanams that are conducted in private enclosures like mandapams, private temples and any other private place do not require any permission from the police.



It will be left open to the organisers to make arrangements for live streaming of the Pran Prathishta at Ayodhya.





"Where, by conducting such functions, there is a possibility of spill over to the place which is accessed by the general public, the same has to be informed to the police in order to enable the police to take necessary measures to keep the situation under control and to ensure that no disturbance is caused to the free movement of the general public. If such functions are planned to be conducted within temples, which are within the control of the HR & CE (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments) Department, the concerned official belonging to the Department must be informed about the same before hand, and the permission will be granted subject to reasonable conditions imposed by the Department," the government submitted.



Further, wherever, considering the local situation, the police is of the opinion that the area is sensitive, it will be left open to it to impose such restrictions and to ensure that the function does not lead to any unnecessary law and order problem, he added.



He also submitted that permission has been granted by the first respondent subsequently and the copy of the proceedings was also placed before this Court.



The judge said the "above stand taken by the State Government and the Police makes it quite clear that conducting the function considering the auspicious occasion, singing Bhajans/ uttering Rama Nama, (conducting) Annadhanams is not per se prohibited or restricted and it must be borne in mind that all this will be done in a responsible and pious manner today without giving rise to any law and order problem."



"No misinformation or wrong information must be permitted to be spread and this will be kept in mind by all parties concerned. Ultimately everyone concerned must keep in mind that Bhakti towards God is only for peace and happiness and not to disturb the equilibrium prevailing in the society," the judge said and disposed of the petition.



Incidentally, the BJP had on Sunday alleged the Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department and police denied permission, across the state, to private groups, individuals and party workers to hold events on January 22 to celebrate the consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
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.
Much of the U.S. still gripped by Arctic freeze, but an end is in sight
Harvard University recently announced the formation of a task force aimed at combating antisemitism on campus.

Sounds great, right? Not quite.

The co-chair of this newly appointed Presidential Task Force, Derek Penslar, does not apparently have much of an affinity for Jews.

In his 2023 book, Zionism: An Emotional State, Penslar asserted, veins of hatred run through Jewish civilization and criticized Israel for its actions towards Palestinians, writing, Israels dispossession of Palestinians from their land and oppression of those who remain have made it one of the most disliked countries on the planet.

He also wrote about Jewish culture being steeped in fantasies (and occasionally, acts) of vengeance against Christians.

The task forces creation came as Harvard University was still dealing with the aftermath of the resignation of its former president, Claudine Gay. Interim President Alan Garber emphasized the need to address antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents on campus and understand the reasons behind them. However, Penslars appointment raises concerns due to his past statements downplaying campus antisemitism.

In August 2023, Penslar signed a letter from Academics4Peace, which criticized Israel as a regime of apartheid and accused it of Jewish supremacism and attempting to ethnically cleanse all territories under Israeli rule of their Palestinian population.

The controversy surrounding the task force adds to Harvards existing challenges, as the university has faced a series of antisemitic incidents since the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel in October 2023. This situation has led to donor revolts and a congressional inquiry into Harvards response.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has vetoed a city council bill known as the How Many Stops Act, which would have required police officers to document every investigative encounter with the public.

The veto announcement came during a press conference on Friday, where Mayor Adams expressed his concerns about the potential consequences of the proposed legislation.

Mayor Adams cited several reasons for vetoing the bill, including concerns that it could slow down the response times of the NYPD, undermine community-oriented policing efforts, and significantly increase the NYPD budget due to added overtime costs. He particularly highlighted the requirement for officers to spend more time filling out reports after Level 1 interactions with the public, which he believes would divert them from patrolling the streets and ensuring public safety.

In a statement accompanying the veto, Mayor Adams shared his personal experience, recalling that he and his brother had been subjected to police violence in their youth. He emphasized his commitment to transparency and addressing abusive policing tactics but argued that the How Many Stops legislation is misguided and poses a threat to public safety.

Our administration supports efforts to make law enforcement more transparent, more just, and more accountable, Adams said. But this bill will handcuff our police by drowning officers in unnecessary paperwork that will saddle taxpayers with tens of millions of dollars in additional NYPD overtime each year, while simultaneously taking officers away from policing our streets and engaging with the community.

Mayor Adams urged his colleagues in government to collaborate with his administration to enhance public safety, emphasizing the importance of having police officers actively patrolling and keeping communities safe.

The bill, co-sponsored by New York City Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, had passed the city council in December. It aimed to require the NYPD to log and report specific information about investigative encounters between officers and civilians, including details about the individuals involved, the reasons for the interaction, and its outcomes. However, NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban argued that the NYPD was already a transparent and scrutinized agency, and the bill would hinder the citys progress.

In response to the veto, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams accused Mayor Adams and the NYPD of fearmongering and misleading the public.

The fact that Mayor Adams is getting his Trump on right now makes this even more difficult than it has to be, Williams said.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
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.

(AP)
NATO is launching its biggest military exercises in decades this week with around 90,000 personnel set to take part in months of drills aimed at showing the alliance can defend all of its territory up to its border with Russia, top officers said this past Thursday.

The exercises come as Russias war on Ukraine bogs down. NATO as an organization is not directly involved in the conflict, except to supply Kyiv with non-lethal support, although many member countries send weapons and ammunition individually or in groups, and provide military training.

In the months before President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops into Ukraine in February 2022, NATO began beefing up security on its eastern flank with Russia and Ukraine. Its the alliances biggest buildup since the Cold War. The war games are meant to deter Russia from targeting a member country.

The exercises  dubbed Steadfast Defender 24  will show that NATO can conduct and sustain complex multi-domain operations over several months, across thousands of kilometers (miles), from the High North to Central and Eastern Europe, and in any condition, the 31-nation organization said.

Troops will be moving to and through Europe until the end of May in what NATO describes as a simulated emerging conflict scenario with a near-peer adversary. Under NATOs new defense plans, its chief adversaries are Russia and terrorist organizations.

The alliance will demonstrate its ability to reinforce the Euro-Atlantic area via transatlantic movement of forces from North America, NATOs Supreme Allied Commander, U.S. General Christopher Cavoli, told reporters.

Cavoli said it will demonstrate our unity, our strength, and our determination to protect each other.

The chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer, said that its a record number of troops that we can bring to bear and have an exercise within that size, across the alliance, across the ocean from the U.S. to Europe.

Bauer described it as a big change compared to troop numbers exercising just a year ago. Sweden, which is expected to join NATO this year, will also take part.

U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps has said that the government in London would send 20,000 troops backed by advanced fighter jets, surveillance planes, warships and submarines, with many being deployed in eastern Europe from February to June.

(AP)
The Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal from a former business partner of presidential son Hunter Biden who was seeking to overturn his criminal conviction for securities fraud.

As is typical, the justices did not comment in leaving in place a federal appeals court ruling that reinstated the fraud conviction of Devon Archer. A lower court judge had earlier set aside a jury verdict that found Archer guilty of fraud and ordered a new trial.

It was the second time the Supreme Court denied Archers appeal.

Hunter Biden was not involved in the effort to defraud the Oglala Sioux Indian tribe in a scheme that involved the sale of bonds, but participants in the fraud invoked his name to enhance their credentials, according to court records.

Archer was convicted in 2018. His conviction was overturned later that year before the court of appeals in New York reinstated it in 2020.

Biden and Archer had been business partners, and both served on the board of the Ukrainian gas company Burisma.

(AP)
Confirmed losses of the Russian occupiers near Avdiivka are more than ten times higher than those of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This clearly demonstrates the failure of the enemy's military leadership.

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This was reported on Monday, January 22, by Oryx Naalsio, an analyst at the Oryx Group, in his account on the social network X, formerly known as Twitter. According to him, the ratio of losses of the Russian occupiers and the Ukrainian military is "insane and indicates the entire failure of the Russian military leadership."

For example, since the beginning of the Russian offensive on the city, the army of the Russian Armed Forces has lost 531 units of military equipment, while the Defense Forces have lost only 43 units.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine canceled 293 armored combat vehicles of the enemy, while they lost 14.

The occupants also lost 169 tanks in the Avdiivka area, while our defenders lost 20 tanks.

The losses registered in Oryx are based only on visual evidence from photos and videos.

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As a reminder, the commander of the Tavria separate military unit Oleksandr Tarnavskyi said yesterday that in the Tavria sector the enemy is focusing assaults and attacks on Avdiivka and Novomykhailivka. Most of the attacks are carried out by infantry, with little or no armored vehicles.

Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate Kirill Budanov said that Russia's losses in the Avdiivka area have increased significantly in recent weeks. According to US intelligence estimates, the enemy has lost over 13,000 people and 220 combat vehicles since October.

Officer of the 59th Yakov Handzyuk Mechanized Brigade Serhiy Tsehotsky said that as many Russian soldiers have been killed near Avdiivka over the past four months as the USSR lost in the war in Afghanistan.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Armed Forces of Ukraine showed a video of one of the largest assaults on Avdiivka, a historic battle that took place in October 2023. The enemy threw into the attack so much equipment that no country has used in any conflict in the 21st century. The footage is reminiscent of apocalypse movies.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
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(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Israel has forcefully rebutted comments made by Russias foreign ministry, who appeared to downplay the Holocausts specific impact on the Jewish people by characterizing it as the mass extermination of various ethnic and social groups and attacking Germany for standing by Israel as it defends itself against South Africas genocide claims against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

At a media briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized Berlin for its staunch backing of Israel. She accused Germany of systematically ignoring the suffering of non-Jewish minorities during the Holocaust, particularly the Slavic people in the then-Soviet Union.

Zakharova referred to UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/60/7, which established International Holocaust Memorial Day on January 27. The resolution highlights the Holocausts devastating impact on the Jewish community, noting the murder of one-third of the Jewish people along with numerous other minority groups. She criticized Berlin for its refusal to acknowledge Nazi crimes against Soviet peoples as genocide, specifically pointing to the nearly two-and-a-half-year Siege of Leningrad during World War II where Berlin has not offered reparations.

Additionally, Zakharova accused Germany of excessively defending Ukraine in the face of Russias 2022 invasion, alleging that the Kyiv regime glorifies Nazi collaborators. This accusation aligns with Russias longstanding claim that its invasion of Ukraine is a fight against neo-Nazism, despite a lack of substantial evidence and the Jewish heritage of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Zakharova concluded that Germany, in the context of the International Court of Justice proceedings, has chosen to isolate the Holocaust from other historical acts against humanity. She accused Berlin of selectively adjusting its historical perspective based on current political considerations.

Israel thanks Germany for its unequivocal support and its stand against South Africas baseless claim, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said in response, adding that the Russians comments were a distortion of the Holocaust, and that they were harmful to victims and survivors.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The relatives of hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza traveled to Jerusalem on Monday morning.

Some relatives participated in Knesset discussions and others held a protest outside the building, demanding that the government reach a hostage deal with Hamas as quickly as possible.

A number of relatives burst into a meeting of the Finance Committee with signs stating: You wont sit here while theyre dying there!

The chairman of the Finance Committee meeting, UTJ MK Moshe Gafni, got up and addressed the relatives, saying that this position and the position of the UTJ party is that the mitzvah of pidyon shevuyim is an extremely important one in Yahadus, especially in this situation where their lives are in danger.

One of the protesters interrupted him, screaming [inaccurately]: For chometz, you broke apart the government but not for hostages?!

Gafni explained that he didnt dismantle the government because of chometz and breaking apart the government for the hostages wont help. He added that he spoke to the prime minister about the hostages and made his position clear.

I understand your pain, he said. Im part of you. Well do everything so that everyone will return home safely.

On the other hand, some of the hostages relatives are adamantly against a hostage deal. In the video below, Tzvika Mor, whose son Eitan is being held captive in Gaza, says that a hostage deal with Hamas will endanger the entire State of Israel.

YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
It was released for publication on Monday that the Jerusalem Police, Border Police, and the Shin Bet thwarted a terror attack planned by two ISIS-affiliated terrorists, residents of east Jerusalem.

The terrorists, who had pledged allegiance to ISIS, had procured chemical materials and planned to prepare explosive devices to carry out bombing attacks against civilians and security forces in the Jerusalem area.

At the direction of the Shin Bet, Jerusalem Police and Border Police officers last month arrested the two terrorists, ages 19 and 20, at their homes in Ras al-Amud in East Jerusalem.

In a search carried out by the police in their homes, they seized various chemical substances, the flags of the ISIS and Hamas terror organizations, a notebook detailing how to prepare explosives, and other findings. The suspects were interrogated, and their detention was extended by the court several times.

According to the indictment filed against the terrorists, they planned, among other things, to detonate a truck filled with gas canisters near the Knesset.

This is the second time in the past month that the Jerusalem Police and Shin Bet thwarted an ISIS-affiliated terror attack. Just a week and a half ago, indictments were filed against two other ISIS-affiliated terrorists who also planned to carry out bombing attacks in Jerusalem.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
A report from Channel 12 reports that Sara Netanyahu, the wife of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has attempted to sack government spokesperson Eylon Levy from his role due to Levys participation in the 2023 Israeli judicial reform protests preceding the Israel-Hamas War. Tweets from Levy during the time of the protests have circulated within the prime ministers inner circle, leading to some discontent.

The attempt by Sara Netanyahu to influence Levys position has triggered a backlash. The Movement for Quality Government in Israel has taken action, requesting the government legal advisor to define the boundaries of her involvement in governmental affairs.

Dr. Eliad Shraga, the organizations chairman, stated, The law does not define any public status or area of responsibility for the spouse of the Prime Minister Mrs. Netanyahu has not submitted herself to the voter test and does not hold any public office and, therefore, cannot interfere in anything that has not been specifically defined for her to interfere in.

Adding to the controversy, MK Zeev Elkin, chairman of the subcommittee for foreign policy and information, sent a letter to Moshik Aviv, head of hasbara  public diplomacy, in which he expresses surprise over reports suggesting a reduction in Levys briefings and potential dismissal due to external pressures. Elkins letter highlights Levys positive reputation and demands a prompt and detailed response, threatening to escalate the matter to the committees agenda.

Levy, a former international media advisor to President Yitzchak Herzog, has gained international recognition over the course of the ongoing conflict, thanks to his articulate and passionate defense of Israel on the world stage. In an interview with The Jerusalem Post, Levy said, I dont think that personal, private, or political opinions about issues that arent even on the agenda at the moment are relevant.

The Public Diplomacy Department responded to the report about Levys potential dismissal, saying, The report is incorrect. The Public Diplomacy Department operates in a professional manner.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The Washington Post published a disturbing report on Sunday about the growing phenomenon of October 7th denial, with groups and forums on online media, such as TikTok, Reddit and 4chan, linking Israel to false flag  a staged event that casts blame on another party.

Although the October 7th assault was the most well-documented in history, with the Hamas terrorists themselves shamelessly recording their unspeakable acts of torture, violence, and murder, false flag narratives denying the attacks tripled on social media in the weeks following the attack.

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.

When she first heard about Hamass 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.

According to the report, denial of the attacks is 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 like 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 October 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.

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.

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.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Endeavour said an investigation into its former boss who was sacked due to serious misconduct will be completed as quickly as possible.

The gold miners board fired Sebastien de Montessus as chief executive this month amid a probe into a 4.6million irregular payment instruction he issued.

Last week the board stripped the French businessman, who had led the company since 2016, of more than 23million in pay and bonuses.

The company, which is listed in London and Toronto, yesterday said the investigation is ongoing and will be progressed as quickly as possible.

Endeavour  the largest gold producer in West Africa  said it discovered the irregular payment during a review of its acquisitions and sales of parts of the business.

Payment: Endeavour's board fired Sebastien de Montessus (pictured) this month amid a probe into a 4.6m irregular payment instruction he issued

It is unclear where the payment was directed and the review is aiming to uncover the details.

De Montessus, 49, admitted to making the payment, saying it was for security equipment for employees working in a conflict zone in 2021.

The former chief executive, who was the highest paid FTSE 100 boss in 2021, said a lapse in judgement meant he did not inform the board of the payment.

He added: The decision has no additional cost to the company and did not benefit me personally in any way.

Endeavour also revealed this month that De Montessus has faced separate allegations over his personal conduct with colleagues.

The allegations, the content of which was not disclosed, were made in October through a confidential whistleblowing channel.

De Montessus said an external investigation by London law firm Linklaters had not upheld those claims.

Yesterdays update came as Endeavour revealed it expects significant growth in production in 2024, with output forecast to rise almost a fifth compared to last year.

A spokesman for De Montessus declined to comment further yesterday.
Heritage: Bourne Leisure runs 37 caravan parks and 14 hotels including Studley Castle in Warwickshire (pictured)

The boss of the company behind Haven caravan parks and Warner hotels has said heavy taxes are stifling tourism in the UK.

High rates of VAT mean UK businesses cannot grow at the same rate as their European rivals, according to Bourne Leisure boss Paul Flaum. Tourist spots in the UK are trying to offer affordable prices to cash-strapped customers but struggle due to the UKs 20 per cent VAT rate.

The Government is effectively handing a competitive advantage to Europe where rates are much lower, such as 10 per cent in Spain, Flaum told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

Without such crazy taxation levels, more Britons would holiday at home rather than going abroad which would put our industry into significant growth.

This would be a win win as firms could invest more in jobs and communities including the levelling up regions.

Flaum  whose business consists of 37 caravan holiday parks and 14 hotels including Studley Castle in Warwickshire  said 2023 was a fantastic year for Bourne Leisure.
Afragment of a Russian missile was found at a Dnipro cemetery. It fell directly on the grave.

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This was reported by the Telegram channel Dnipro Operativnyi. The rocket damaged the tombstone.

"A fragment of a Russian missile was found at a cemetery in Dnipro. The projectile fell directly on the grave, damaging the tombstone," the report says.

Explosive experts seized this element for further neutralization.

It is worth noting that in Lviv, a fragment of a Russian missile broke a tree that was planted in memory of a fallen Ukrainian soldier. It was a reminder of soldier Ruslan Stepula, who was killed by the occupiers at the beginning of the ATO.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Russia for the first time used a 4-ton anti-ship missile P-35 (3M44 Progress), which is at least 60 years old, to strike Ukraine. Photos of the rare missile's wreckage were posted online.

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China has recognized Russian Kinzhal missiles as ineffective. China's experts said that the missile is based on outdated technology from the 1980s and is unable to significantly change the situation on the battlefield and influence the outcome of the war in Ukraine.

Russian missiles are becoming less efficient. They often fail to reach their targets and simply fall in the open.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Poland joined the G7 declaration on security guarantees for Ukraine. It also plans to jointly produce weapons and invest in defense systems.

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This was announced by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who arrived on a visit to Kyiv on January 22. According to him, Poland has become another country that has joined the G7 Vilnius Declaration on security guarantees for Ukraine.

"Poland has joined the G7 declaration, which aims to mobilize democratic countries in support of Ukraine," the Polish prime minister's office posted on social media platform X.

In addition, during a joint press conference with Tusk, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Poland would provide Kyiv with a new arms package.

According to him, the politicians held "very productive" talks on all aspects of bilateral relations, including joint weapons production.

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The plans include joint arms enterprises and projects, as well as investments in defense complexes.

"Today we had very productive talks with Mr. Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk. We discussed all aspects of our bilateral relations. The first is defense support. There is a new Polish defense package. We appreciate this continued assistance. The second is security guarantees. We discussed Poland's accession to the Group of Seven declaration. I am grateful for the readiness to start working on a bilateral agreement between our countries," Zelenskyy said.

The parties also discussed the situation on the border between Ukraine and Poland. According to the Ukrainian president, "at a time when we are defending not only our own independence but also the freedom of other peoples of Europe, in particular the Polish people, solidarity with Ukraine should not be destroyed by any obstacles."

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Zelenskyy and Tusk also discussed energy cooperation and Ukraine's movement towards the EU.

"We have much more opportunities for our peoples and for the whole of Europe to increase and strengthen our energy potential. And the fifth is our movement towards the European Union, the appropriate steps. I am grateful for the willingness of Mr. Prime Minister to support Ukraine with his experience. I am sure we will be together in the European Union. We will be together in NATO. We will be free together - Ukraine and Poland," the Ukrainian President said.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, Tusk emphasized during his visit to Kyiv that "there is nothing more important than military support for Ukraine - this is the number one thing." The Prime Minister emphasized that it is important for him to create a feeling that Poland is the most reliable and stable ally "in this deadly battle with evil."

In April 2023, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine would like to receive strategic security guarantees before joining NATO.

On July 11-12, the G7 leaders' summit took place in Vilnius, where the presidents of the European Council, European Commission, and representatives of the Group of Seven countries agreed on the initiative of the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine. Each of the countries will work with Ukraine on specific long-term commitments and agreements in the security sector.

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Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Russian army's losses in manpower could reach half a million soldiers by the end of 2024. This may be the price of the occupiers' seizure of several kilometers of territory, which cannot be considered a military success.

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This was stated by the head of the Situation Center for Ukraine at the German Ministry of Defense, Christian Freuding, DW reports. As for the loss of equipment, he estimated it at four figures.

According to him, over the course of almost two years of war, the quality of the Russian armed forces' personnel has significantly decreased.

"The modern Russian armed forces have been virtually destroyed. There are no more well-trained troops, entire divisions have been destroyed," Freuding said.

He expressed his belief that Russia will not be able to launch a significant offensive in the near future.

Regarding the state of Ukrainian troops, Freuding points out that Ukraine's air defense successfully intercepts 80% of Russian air attacks, including effective repulsion of the most advanced Kinzhal missiles.

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Ukraine's armed forces are demonstrating the ability to conduct more precise long-range strikes against Russian forces, including in annexed Crimea. The Russian Navy was forced to leave Sevastopol, and Ukrainian drones can penetrate as far as Moscow. The major general also noted that Ukrainian troops can effectively conduct defensive battles while maintaining a high level of mobility.

Earlier, British intelligence reported that Russia's losses in equipment and manpower in the war against Ukraine have increased in recent days. In just 5 days, Russia's losses of military equipment increased by 88%.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, soldiers of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine destroyed a costly Russian anti-aircraft missile system. With a precise strike, the defenders turned the Tor air defense system into scrap. It is worth noting that the occupants tried to shoot down a Ukrainian drone with a missile from the Tor, but missed.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Ukrainian defenders continue to destroy Russian occupation forces. In January, enemy losses in the eastern sector of the frontline increased significantly.

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This was reported by the spokesman of the Land Forces Volodymyr Fitio. "In January, our soldiers destroyed more Russian tanks on the eastern front than in December," he said.

It is specified that since the beginning of the year, as of January 20, Russian losses in the area of responsibility of the "Khortytsia" junior military unit amounted to 7055 people killed and wounded, as well as 931 pieces of military equipment. In particular, these include 120 tanks, 218 armored vehicles, 178 cannons and mortars.

At the same time, 167 invaders' tanks were burned in December.

"If we count by days, in December an average of five tanks were destroyed every day, now it is six," said Lysohor.

He added that the number of artillery and mortar attacks by the invaders has also increased. While in December and early January, Russians fired from this type of weapon 400-600 times a day in the Liman-Kupyansk sector, yesterday they fired 810 times.

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In addition, the enemy launched 24 air strikes and used 54 kamikaze drones. However, Ukrainian defenders eliminated 187 occupants and destroyed 79 pieces of equipment, including six tanks, six infantry fighting vehicles, two armored personnel carriers, and two MT-LBs.

It is worth noting that the Russian army's losses in manpower could reach half a million soldiers by the end of 2024. This may be the price of the occupiers' seizure of several kilometers of territory, which cannot be considered a military success.

Earlier, British intelligence reported that Russian losses in equipment and manpower in the war against Ukraine have increased in recent days. In just 5 days, the loss of Russian military equipment increased by 88%.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, soldiers of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine destroyed an expensive Russian anti-aircraft missile system. With a precise strike, the defenders turned the Tor air defense system into scrap. It is worth noting that the occupiers tried to shoot down a Ukrainian drone with a missile from the Tor, but missed.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The leadership of the terrorist state of Russia has stated that it is not familiar with the intentions of US presidential candidate Donald Trump to "settle" the war in Ukraine before his inauguration. The Kremlin said it did not understand how the American politician would help achieve peace.

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At the same time, Moscow assured that there were no diplomatic contacts with Trump on this issue. Russian propaganda media write about this.

According to Putin's press secretary Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin does not understand how Trump is going to achieve peace. The Russian dictator's spokesman also added that the terrorist country of Russia is not in contact with the former president of the United States.

"No, we have no understanding of how this can be done. There have been no contacts in this regard," the Kremlin spokesman said.

It is worth noting that Trump has repeatedly stated that he would "stop the war in one day." Moreover, the odious American politician revealed that if he had been in power, a full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine would have been avoided.

As a reminder, Donald Trump recently revealed that if he wins the upcoming presidential election, he will allegedly "settle" the war in Ukraine before his inauguration. He stated that he would be able to "restore peace through resolve."

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, Zelenskyy again invited Trump to Ukraine, who has a chance to become the Republican candidate in the US presidential election. Trump had previously said that if he became president for the second time, he would "be able to stop the war in 24 hours," so our guarantor invited him to do so.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
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.
The controversial former president of the United States, Donald Trump, has revealed that if he wins the upcoming presidential election, he will allegedly "settle" the war in Ukraine before his inauguration. He stated that he would be able to "restore peace through resolve."

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Trump made this statement on Sunday, January 21, during his meeting with supporters in New Hampshire. The event was broadcast on the YouTube channel CNN-News18.

Trump said he would "settle" the war in Ukraine started by Russia before he officially enters the Oval Office. He revealed that he will take advantage of the fact that he knows Russian dictator Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "very well."

"Even before I go into the Oval Office, and some time after we win the presidential election, I will settle this terrible war between Russia and Ukraine. I know Putin, I know Zelensky very well, I know both of them. We will settle it, it has to be done. There is bloodshed there now. We will restore peace with determination," the controversial politician said.

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According to Trump, Europe will have to increase its spending on Ukraine equally with the United States, as they are now incomparable. He blamed Europe for giving Ukraine ten times less money than the United States.

The former US president also reiterated that Russian dictator Putin would never have launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine if he had been president of the United States, not Joe Biden.

"This should not have happened, no one should have been killed. There is zero chance that Putin would have done this if I had been president. He would not have done it, I talked to him," Trump said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Zelenskyy again invited Trump to Ukraine, who has a chance to become the Republican candidate in the US presidential election. Trump had previously said that if he became president for the second time, he would "be able to stop the war in 24 hours," so our guarantor invited him to do so.

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Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Ukrainian Defense Forces are using Soviet and Western armored vehicles in combination at the front. Ukraine's defenders are coming up with various tactics to ensure that this military equipment successfully complements and reinforces each other during battles on the front line.

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This is stated in an article by Forbes. According to the author of the article, the combination of Western and Soviet equipment in one battle became noticeable during the Armed Forces counteroffensive in the summer of 2023.

At that time, analysts noticed the use of German Leopard 2 tanks and American Bradley infantry fighting vehicles by Ukrainian troops alongside Soviet T-64 and T-72 tanks. Now, M-1 Abrams tanks, which were provided to Ukraine by Washington, have appeared on the front line. As noted, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have a small number of these tanks, but they have become very useful at the front.

Abrams tanks have the best sensor capabilities of any tank in service in Ukraine. That is why the M1 Abrams should be viewed not so much as a tank as a sensor platform.

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Thanks to the SADA-II thermal imaging system, this tank could operate in conjunction with Soviet-style main battle tanks, whose optics are less functional. The Abrams crew can detect targets at a great distance and transmit their coordinates by radio to other Ukrainian crews.

"Abrams has the best sensors of any Ukrainian tank. Thanks to its SADA-II thermal imaging system, the 69-ton, four-man M-1 can detect targets up to five miles (8 km) away - further than all other main battle tanks in Russia's 23-month war against Ukraine," the article says.

In addition, there is a possibility that the American tanks and infantry fighting vehicles received by Ukraine are equipped with the Blue Force Tracker onboard system, which registers the location of friendly forces on a digital map.

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"If Ukraine's Abrams and Bradley can share situational awareness via their Blue Force trackers rather than voice radio, they could be a better team than, say, a Leopard 2 and a Bradley," the publication writes.

The combination of the Abrams with other combat vehicles also gives the team excellent capabilities for night fighting. The M-1, with its high-quality thermal imaging sights, can see almost as well at night as it does during the day, at a distance of several miles. Instead, the Russian T-72B of the 2022 model has a rather primitive thermal imaging sight that works at a distance of less than two kilometers.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, during the four months of offensive operations near Avdiivka, Russian losses are already comparable to those of the USSR in the war in Afghanistan. This was stated by Serhiy Tsehotskyi, an officer of the 59th separate motorized infantry brigade named after Yakov Handziuk.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
OnJanuary 22, NATO will launch its largest military exercise in decades, Steadfast Defender 2024, which will last until the end of May. The last such NATO exercise took place during the Cold War in 1988.

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This was reported by DW. These maneuvers will involve approximately 90,000 participants and are aimed at simulating a conflict with a "virtually equal enemy."

All NATO countries, as well as Sweden, which is a candidate country for membership in the Alliance, will take part in the large-scale military exercise Steadfast Defender 2024. The maneuvers, which will last until the end of May, will cover European territory from Norway to Romania. The Steadfast Defender scenario envisages a situation of a Russian attack on the territory of the allies, which would activate Article Five of the NATO Collective Defense Treaty.

The last such NATO exercise took place in 1988 and involved more than 125,000 soldiers. Since then, Trident Juncture has been considered the largest military exercise of recent decades, involving more than 50,000 troops in 2018.

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The large-scale exercise Steadfast Defender 2024 is a manifestation of a new level of NATO readiness. More than 50 ships, including aircraft carriers and destroyers, as well as more than 80 fighters, helicopters and drones, and at least 1,100 combat vehicles, including 133 tanks and 533 infantry fighting vehicles, will also take part in the exercise.

According to Allied Supreme Allied Commander Europe Christopher Cavoli, the exercise will demonstrate NATO's ability to conduct and sustain complex operations on land, air, sea, cyberspace and space over several months, stretching thousands of kilometers from the Far North to Central and Eastern Europe and in all conditions.

"This is a record number of troops that we can deploy and exercise on this scale, across the Alliance, across the ocean, from the United States to Europe," said Chairman of the NATO Military Committee Rob Bauer.

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In addition, the Chairman of the Military Committee emphasized that war is not only a matter for the military, but also affects the entire society.

Earlier it was reported that Russia is trying to present NATO's Steadfast Defender 2024 defense exercises, which begin this week, as a provocation and aggression. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the aggressor country accused NATO of continuing a "show of force" on Russia's "doorstep."
Clay's legal battle against city hall & Mayor Q endures . . . Here's the latest note he has shared with local media regarding his perspective on the effort and the stat of KCMO . . . Check-it:



Chastain press release: Lady Justice weeps as Lucas & the City stay winning & Chastain & Free Speech stay losing in US Federal Court (Chief Justice Phillips rules in favor of the City's Motion to Dismiss Chastain's Civil Rights case). Undaunted, Chastain (pro se) files Notice of Appeal in the 8th US Circuit Court of Appeals (Case. No. 24-1080).



Unexplainably, 4-Federal Judges of the United States Western District Court of KCMO just happened to recuse themselves in this case before it eventually landed in the lap of a 5th Judge...Chief Judge Phillips (appointed by Obama). She proceeded to agree with Lucas & the City that Chastain's lawsuit against the City & Lucas (for violating Chastain's Constitutional right to free speech) failed to State a Claim for relief. Let's see, the City blocked Chastain from asking Mayor Lucas why he refused to debate, proceeded to arrest Chastain for trespassing and then tried to criminalize Chastain by prosecuting him in City Court (a brave City judge acquitted Chastain). And yet Chastain (his pro se arguments are to be "liberally construed" & "interpreted to raise the strongest arguments they suggest") failed to state a claim for relief according to Judge Phillips.



In this far-left town, reported on by a far-left media and presided over by (mostly) far-left judges, citizens are treated Differently by the Government. Thus, Chastain has become to Kansas City what Trump has become to America...Both have good policies. Both have been maligned by the radical left media & those in power. Both are for the people and making KC & America great again. And both have been abused by biased Judges in the US legal system.



In KC, the gov't has ignored petitions, distorted petitions and overturned petition elections for decades. Yet the courts, other than brave Judge Holliger, have never punished the City for its anti-democracy & anti-free speech misbehavior. Now a Gov't & its Mayor unfairly stops a citizen, unfairly arrests that citizen and then proceeds to unfairly prosecute that citizen (for merely trying to exercise his free political speech on City Council day) and a Federal Judge rules no legitimate claim was raised.



Now if Citizen Lucas had been so abused by Mayor Chastain the media would have been howling and the courts coming to the rescue.

If members of KC Tenants had come to City Hall & been stopped, arrested and prosecuted for trespassing by Mayor Chastain, there would have been media hysteria and the courts coming to the rescue.



But when it is a Republican Pariah, or his petitions being abused, the liberal media smiles & the courts fan on Democracy. In this false town, citizens are treated according to who they are - not according to what is right. Only the free speech of the favored is protected.



But this Landmark Constitutional Case may wind up in the US Supreme Court where (rest assured) these high caliber Judges will balance the scales of justice...Blindfolded.



Kansas City Activist, Clay Chastain

##################



Developing . . .


And so . . . Last minute brinkmanship amps up stadium drama at the courthouse.

Moments ago there was word of two politicos flipping AGAIN.

UPDATE . . .

The Letter of Intent has been signed by the Jackson County Sports Authority & the teams. And the deal seems ready to go.



But now . . . Team Frank might be taking advantage of the weather.

Here's part of the story . . .



Here's more . . .



"Jackson County legislators Sean Smith and Jalen Anderson told KCTV5 on Monday morning that they have changed their stance and will override county executive Frank Whites veto.



"White vetoed the measure on Jan. 18 that Jackson County legislators had passed that would put to a vote extending a 3/8-cent sales tax to fund the stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals."



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Stadium sales tax to appear on April ballot, legislators to override Frank White's veto Jackson County legislators Sean Smith and Jalen Anderson told KCTV5 on Monday morning that they have changed their stance.

2 legislators now plan to override Frank White veto of stadium ballot question The fate of the effort to ask Jackson County voters this April to extend a 3/8-cent sales tax for stadium projects for the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs could be decided Monday afternoon.

Developing . . .
As the local frost lingers, right now fashion diva Kim inspires our peek at pop culture, community news and top headlines.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Tasty Cowtown Team Up

Enjoy this KC coffee shop "cultural collaboration" before it's gone Cafe Ollama and Cafe Ca Phe are blending their Latin and Asian cultures in an exclusive drink menu available through the month of January.

Buying The Farm

More Midwest states are moving to block foreign ownership of farmland in 2024 At least 21 states are considering legislation to block foreign companies and individuals from purchasing farmland. The issue has gained momentum in recent years.

Weekend Aftermath

Elderly man dies in Kansas City house fire One man has died after a house fire in Blue Summit, Missouri, on Sunday morning.

Agenda Setting

Nick's Picks | Chiefs, Stadium Vote and Warmer Weather News in Kansas City this week will be dominated by the Kansas City Chiefs playoff push, the stadium tax in Jackson County and better weather.

Pop Diva Drink Debuts

'SwifTEA': KC's Tea Market offering Chiefs, Taylor Swift themed brews Area businesses that have always been on the Chiefs bandwagon are starting to cater to the Swifties as well.

Celeb Backup Offered

Kim Kardashian Is Officially a Balenciaga Brand Ambassador Kim Kardashian Is Officially a Balenciaga Brand Ambassador: "For me, this long-standing relationship is built on mutual trust and a commitment to doing what's right," she said.

Culture War Campaigning

Biden leans into abortion, contraception as 2024 campaign strategy takes shape It's part of the effort to frame the race as a choice between Democrats who'll protect abortion and contraception and Republicans who've called for more restrictions.

MAGA Insults Debated

Trump is turning to racism to mock Nikki Haley's Indian name. Experts say it could backfire. Donald Trump called Nikki Haley a racist name on Friday, par for the course for someone who turns to name-calling for his political foes.

TV Star Shares Stage

Judge Judy Talks About Her Nikki Haley Endorsement, Donald Trump's Courtroom Antics And Her Fears Of A 2020 Rematch As Donald Trump was about to step on stage on Sunday for another rally to tout the endorsement of another former rival, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley was about 30 miles south in New Hampshire, at a ral...

Election Turns Strange

Biden's name won't appear on New Hampshire ballots - where does that leave Democrats? The president's absence opens a window for Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson to mount longshot presidential bids

Mouse House Finishes Ahead

Ron DeSantis' campaign was over when he decided to have a popularity contest against Mickey Mouse Gov. DeSantis' crusade against one of the most prominent companies in the world set him apart from the rest of the GOP field - and not in a good way.

Political Diversity Denied

Hispanic Caucus snub raises questions about border-Ukraine deal The glaring absence of Hispanic or immigrant representation in the bipartisan Senate border policy negotiations has gone largely overlooked, despite repeated appeals to diversify the voices at the table. The ongoing snub of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) puts in question whether the group's political clout has grown on par with its numbers.

Fight Over Life Cont'd

'They hate God': US anti-abortion activists aim to fight back on 51st Roe anniversary As Biden unveils blitz of events to mark 1973 ruling, conservatives try to stage comeback after string of ballot failures

Inconvenient End Game

Texas convenience store worker shot and killed over bag of chips by alleged shoplifters "No one ever anticipates just going to work that day and not coming home," Humble Assistant Police Chief Dan Zientek told reporters at the scene.

Holy Land Hot Mess Worsens

Israeli tanks cut off two hospitals in new storming of Gaza's Khan Younis Israeli tanks storming southern Gaza's main city reached the gates of two hospitals on Monday, cutting residents off from trauma care as the bloodiest fighting of the new year tore through areas sheltering hundreds of thousands of displaced.

European War Returns To Bad Old Days

Rats and mice swarm trenches in Ukraine in grisly echo of World War I | CNN The frontlines of Russia's war in Ukraine have become infested with rats and mice, reportedly spreading disease that causes soldiers to vomit and bleed from their eyes, crippling combat capability and recreating the grisly conditions that plagued troops in the trench warfare of World War I.

Cash Crunch Across Globe

Chinese stocks are having their worst start to a year since 2016 | CNN Business Chinese stocks have had their worst start to a year since the country's financial market crash of eight years ago. It comes as Beijing dashed hopes earlier this week that it might intervene to support the country's struggling economy.

American Consumerism Climax

In a Stanley cup daze? Woman wheels $2,500 in cups out of store without paying, police say Stanley cup mania landed one Sacramento woman in handcuffs last week after she wheeled a shopping cart full of the reusable water bottles out of a store without paying, authorities said.

Taste Of Victory

Love on a bun: Travis and Taylor inspire local sandwich shop Travis and Taylor-themed sandwiches at new sandwich spot in Crossroads.

Midday Serving . . .

Kansas City Restaurant Week: The Ship Chef Joey DiSanto drops by the My KC Live studio to show off one of the delicious items on their menu for Restaurant Week!

Cowtown Ice Rink Right Now

Joe's Blog: Ice Ice baby (MON-1/22) Some areas of freezing rain are possible, especially northwest of Kansas City. Pavement temperatures will be critical for local road impact

X Ambassadors - No Strings is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has responded to the scandalous statement by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico about a "territorial compromise" with Russia. They emphasized that this is out of the question, as there can be no compromise on this issue.

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This was announced by the spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oleh Nikolenko. "There can be no compromise on territorial integrity. Neither for Ukraine, nor for Slovakia, nor for any other country," he said.

Nikolenko added that Ukraine and its partners are making significant efforts to liberate the Ukrainian occupied territories, including to avoid Russian invasion of other countries.

"Let's be frank: without security in Ukraine, there will be no security either in Slovakia or in Europe as a whole. We must work together to bring the Ukrainian victory closer," he emphasized.

The day before, Fico said that Ukraine is "not a sovereign state." According to the Slovak politician, it is allegedly completely under the control of the United States.

The day before, it became known that on Wednesday, January 24, the Slovak prime minister would arrive in Uzhhorod to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal. The politician plans to bring humanitarian aid and inform his interlocutor that Bratislava is not going to provide military assistance to Kyiv.

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Fico also said that he was going to inform the Ukrainian prime minister about his plans to veto Ukraine's accession to NATO, calling it "the basis of the third world war."

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- Earlier, Fico spoke about the need for "security guarantees " for Russia. According to him, the aggressor state launched a full-scale invasion "in response to the security situation and Ukraine's pressure to join NATO."

- Slovakia refused to condemn the transfer of missiles to Russia by North Korea. Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar justified the alleged "lack of evidence" of such deliveries.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Foreign investment is typically a good thing for local biz but money form China is now under scrutiny.

Remember . . . For 20 years China has enjoyed "most favored nation" trading partner status with the U.S. but now the rise of that country's military threatens many deservedly cautious denizens of the political discourse.

Here's the sitch for now . . .



"The opposition of a few local residents has grown into a nascent movement among Kansas Republicans to block the plant, potentially imperiling a project expected to generate more than 100 jobs. U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Republican, touched off a new round of concern earlier this month when he released a letter calling on the Committee for Foreign Investment in the United States  a federal panel  to investigate whether Cnano has ties to the Chinese Community Party . . .



"Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobachs chief deputy attorney general, Dan Burrows, said the office was looking into what actions could be taken against the company. In a letter to the Johnson County Commission on Friday, Kobach, a Republican, urged the county to withdraw its incentives."





Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
When you think of Egypt, chances are the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx will top your list of must visit tourist sites in the country. While there is no doubt that they are worth seeing, Egypt has much more to offer those who wish to venture to its different cities.

Those who head for southern Egypt will find many to marvel at in the city of Aswan. Here are five that you definitely should visit during your trip to the city.

Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is a complex that is home to two rock-cut temples. The Great Temple, otherwise known as the Ramesses II Temple, took around 20 years to complete. It features an entrance that is flanked by larger than life statues of Ramessess II. There are four in total with two statues on each side of the entrance.

The second temple, on the other hand, is more commonly known as the Small Temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Hathor as well as the first of Ramesses II's Great Royal Wives, Nefertari.

Related Article: 7 Things That'll Surprise You When You Travel to Egypt

Elephantine

Elephantine is an island that is part of the city. It is home to archaeological sites, such as the nilometer of the Temple of Satet and ruins of the Temple of Khnum.

It is said that it got its name from its shape, which resembles an elephant tusk.

Philae Temple Complex

While the Philae Templex Complex was originally located on Philae Island, it was actually moved to Agilkia Island due to the frequent flooding caused by the construction of a dam.

While its made up of a number of structures, the arguably most popular part of it is known as the Temple of Isis. The largest structure in the complex, the Temple of Isis is dedicated to the goddess whose name it bears. Other structures that are part of the complex are Kiosk of Nectanebo, Kiosk of Trajan, and Gateway of Hadrian, among others.

Read Also: History 101: Five Interesting Facts About Egypt's Pyramids
AirAsia Philippines is boosting tourism by offering discounted fares for domestic flights in January 2024. They aim to support popular Philippine festivals like Sinulog and Ati-atihan, having already served 520,000 guests in the first half of the month.

Travelers booking through their Superapp or website can win exciting prizes. AirAsia Philippines also plans to merge with AirAsia X shortly, connecting the country with more foreign destinations.

AirAsia Philippines Offers Festive Discounts to Boost Tourism in 2024

AirAsia Philippines is gearing up to support the resurgence of lively Philippine festivals, including Sinulog, Ati-atihan, and Dinagyang, by offering discounted fares and exciting giveaways throughout January.

In January 2023, AirAsia Philippines flew 580,000 guests to popular destinations such as Cebu, Bohol, and Kalibo. According to When in Manila, this year, in the first half of January alone, the airline has already served 520,000 guests and anticipates strong demand, aligning with the Department of Tourism's goal to increase tourist arrivals.

Steve Dailisan, spokesperson and First Officer at AirAsia Philippines, emphasized the airline's commitment to making these festivals accessible to everyone. He highlighted AirAsia's reputation for affordable, reliable, and safe air travel, expressing the airline's desire to facilitate the celebration of Filipino culture.

Related Article: Capital A Announces Strategic Merger of AirAsia Brands for Global Reach

AirAsia Philippines offers one-way base fares ranging from 68 to 98 for domestic flights throughout the month to entice more visitors to Philippine festivals, as per the news report. Additionally, those who book their flights via the Superapp or airasia.com before Feb. 12, 2024, can win vacation packages, free flights, hotel vouchers, and Airasia points in the AirAsia 2024 Blowout promotion.

Dailisan also noted that AirAsia Philippines' improved on-time performance (OTP), with a 93% average over the past seven days in January 2024, is expected to attract more guests to the airline.

Looking ahead, AirAsia Philippines aims to welcome more foreign guests, particularly from other ASEAN countries. The planned merger of AirAsia X and AirAsia Philippines, set to materialize in the coming months, is expected to consolidate medium and long-haul flights, providing more opportunities for foreign travelers to explore the Philippines and connect with neighboring destinations.

As AirAsia Philippines continues to support the vibrant spirit of Philippine festivals, travelers can expect accessible fares and exciting giveaways, contributing to the country's thriving tourism industry in 2024.

AirAsia Philippines Transfers Aviation Business to AirAsia X for Financial Improvement

Malaysia-based airline group Capital A Berhad, the operator of budget carrier AirAsia Philippines, is moving its aviation operations to AirAsia X Berhad (AAX) to enhance its financial performance. This strategic move aims to consolidate Malaysia AirAsia and AirAsia Aviation Group under the AirAsia brand, encompassing operations in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Cambodia.

Capital A CEO Tony Fernandes stated that the definitive sale and purchase agreement is in the finalization stage and expected to be signed within the next two weeks. Business World reported that this restructuring allows Capital A to shift its focus to its other businesses, including logistics aviation services and a digital platform.

AirAsia X believes this acquisition will significantly strengthen its market position and financial stability. Last year, the company successfully exited its PN17 status, a classification for financially distressed companies on the Malaysian stock exchange.

Fernandes highlighted the need to raise capital for expanding the fleet in Indonesia and the Philippines, the group's key growth markets. AirAsia aims to launch flights to the US by the year's end and sees potential in the Philippines due to growing tourism demand.

Read Also: AirAsia Malaysia Expands with New Direct Flights to Perth, Almaty
Nestled in the heart of County Donegal, Slieve League stands as one of Ireland's most breathtaking natural wonders. These majestic cliffs, towering above the Atlantic Ocean, offer a spectacle that captivates visitors from around the world. Slieve League's sheer magnitude and raw beauty are unmatched, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Slieve League is a perfect choice for those seeking an escape into nature's embrace. The cliffs, with their dramatic drops and lush surroundings, are a testament to the power and beauty of the Irish coastline. If you are an avid hiker looking for challenging trails or someone who enjoys leisurely strolls with \views, Slieve League caters to all.

What You Can See and Do at Slieve League

As you visit Slieve League, the first thing that will catch your eye is the panoramic views. The cliffs, standing at nearly 600 meters, provide a breathtaking vantage point over the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, you can see far across the sea, with views stretching as far as the Donegal Bay and the Sligo Mountains. These views are a photographer's dream so be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Related Article: What Makes Donegal, Ireland Irresistible to Travelers - Find Out Here

For those of you who love to hike, Slieve League has a range of trails that vary in difficulty. From leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, there is something for everyone. The Pilgrim's Path is a popular choice, offering a moderately challenging route with rewarding views.

If you are up for a more strenuous adventure, the One Man's Pass will lead you right along the cliff edge, providing exhilarating views. Remember, safety comes first, so stick to the paths and wear suitable footwear.

Practical Tips in Visiting the Famous Cliffs

Visiting Slieve League's majestic cliffs can be an unforgettable experience, but it is essential to be prepared and aware of what to expect. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to these famous cliffs.

Best Time to Visit Slieve League

Timing is crucial for a pleasant visit to Slieve League. The summer months offer longer daylight hours and generally better weather, making it ideal for exploring. However, these months can also be more crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the late spring or early autumn. Early morning or late afternoon times are perfect for avoiding crowds and catching the cliffs in beautiful light.

Safety Guidelines

Safety at Slieve League should be your top priority. The cliffs are very high, and it's crucial to stay away from the edge, especially on windy days. If you are hiking, stick to the marked trails and be aware of your surroundings. Do not take risks for photos and always watch your footing.

What to Bring

When you visit Slieve League, dress appropriately for the weather, which can change quickly. Wear sturdy footwear for hiking and bring a raincoat or windbreaker. Do not forget to pack water, some snacks, and perhaps a thermos with a hot drink if the weather is cool. A fully charged phone and a map of the area can also be handy, especially if you plan to explore the hiking trails.

Read Also: Here's Why the Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland's Ultimate Road Trip
I killed Bin Laden - I heard him take his last breath after I shot him in face 3 times'

Udaku Special

AJIRA ZA UHAKIKA NJE NJE, BONYEZA HAPA





Osama bin Laden was killed on May 2, 2011 at his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan after a daring mission led by elite US military operators who pulled off the seemingly impossible





The Navy SEAL who killed Osama bin Laden has claimed he heard him "take his last breath" after he shot the al-Qaeda man in the face three times.









Operation Neptune Spear saw the revered SEAL Team 6 hunt down and kill the leader of the terrorist group at his compound in Pakistan. Rob O'Neill was on the mission to Abbottabad on May 2, 2011, and has previously opened up on bin Laden's final moments.





Speaking on The Shawn Ryan Show, he said: I can hear bin Laden taking his last breath. When I shot him he fell to the foot of the bed.





Rob O'Neill was on the mission to Abbottabad on May 2, 2011

Rob O'Neill was on the mission to Abbottabad on May 2, 2011

I shot him in the face three times. I moved Amal [bin Ladens wife] and his two-year-old son is now standing there, and this is the humanity of everything. This kid has got nothing to do with this. Im a father. I picked him up and I move them to the back of the bed.





He also previously said he feared the mission would be his last.





Speaking on the Full Send Podcast, he explained: "We were actually calling ourselves the martyr's brigade. "We knew we were going to die. Shot down on the way in, immediate fight when we get there. We were going to run out of fuel and end our short lives in a Pakistani prison."









Speaking on The Shawn Ryan Show, he said: 'I can hear bin Laden taking his last breath'

He also explained his reasons for taking part in the mission. He said: "We're going after Osama bin Laden for the single mom who dropped her kids off at elementary school on a Tuesday and then 45 minutes later, she jumped to her death out of a skyscraper because that's a better alternative than whatever the hell was going on inside the 2,000 degree Fahrenheit.









"And her last gesture of human decency was to hold her skirt down as she killed herself.





"She was never supposed to be in the fight. We're supposed to be in the fight."





But despite the horrors of the mission facing them, he said he remained steadfast, as all his comrades did in the face of death.









'I recognised his nose, his beard, how tall he was, how skinny he was,' O'Neill sai

"There was no fear involved with this mission, he said.





"You accept death. This is what we came to do."





O'Neill shot bin Laden and said that when he saw him he recognised him straight away.





"I recognised his nose, his beard, how tall he was, how skinny he was. He's not surrendering, he's a threat. So I got to take him down. And when you're dealing with a suicide bomber - which he should have been - you shoot them in the face. I shot him in the face twice then once more on the ground."












Ukraines Ground Forces Commander, Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, visited frontline areas in Siversk and Bakmhut directions, meeting with brigade commanders operating in the area to discuss proposals for further tactical action.

Thats according to the Ground Forces press service, Ukrinform reports.

"The situation remains extremely tense as we see the enemy intensively employing artillery, mortars, and attack drones, as well as running assault operations," the press service quotes Sirskyi as saying.

The report notes that the commanders briefed Syrskyi on their conclusions from the assessment of the latest battlefield developments as to further action required. Decisions were made on the ground to increase the efficiency of Ukraines defenses and address existing issues.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on January 18, Ground Forces Commander Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi visited military units holding the defense in the Kupiansk direction, where he joined commanders on the ground in planning the use of reserves.
Changes in the composition of the UN Security Council have not affected the attitude of the majority of members of this body to Ukraine, while the Security Council continues to be hostage to the Russian Federation's position as the Soviet Union.

This was stated in an interview with Ukrinform by Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Sergiy Kyslytsia.

"In general, I do not believe that the change in the composition of the Security Council has led to a deterioration in the level of support for Ukraine among those members of the Security Council who firmly stand by the principles and goals of the UN Charter," Kyslytsia said.

The Permanent Representative reminded that instead of two African countries (Gabon and Ghana), Algeria and Sierra Leone became members of the Security Council at the beginning of this year. Instead of Brazil, Latin America and the Caribbean is represented by Guyana.

"To assess their positions, it is worth listening to the speeches of their representatives at the recent Security Council meetings," he said.

According to Kyslytsia, Guyana "unequivocally called on Russia to completely withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine." Sierra Leone has been quite consistent in its insistence on respecting the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the UN Charter.

"Algeria's position is the least inspiring," he said, "as evidenced by at least one phrase from the Algerian representative's speech - that Algeria continues to be "concerned about the military actions in Russia and Ukraine.

From Asia, instead of the UAE, South Korea joined the Security Council, which has a clear position on the Ukrainian issue, the Permanent Representative said.

"It is extremely concerned about Moscow's cooperation with the dictatorial regime in Pyongyang. After all, what is happening in Ukraine with North Korean shells and missiles, in South Korea's opinion, poses a direct threat to itself," he explained.

Slovenia also became a non-permanent member (instead of Albania), representing a group of Eastern European countries. "This is a very reliable country. In terms of supporting Ukraine, it has proved this by many of its actions and declared political position," Kyslytsia noted.

Therefore, the situation in the Security Council has not undergone radical changes, he added.

At the same time, there are "systemic problems" in the Security Council, which are that "the Security Council continues to be hostage to the Russian Federation being in the place of the Soviet Union," the diplomat emphasized.

"Moscow uses the rights of the Soviet Union with the consent of the Security Council member states, especially the permanent ones, which are not ready to question the full scope of Moscow's powers in the Security Council, no matter how boldly Russia acts in the international arena, particularly in Ukraine," he said.

Despite harsh criticism from other members about the Russian Federation's violations of the UN Charter and international law, "it remains where it was at the beginning of the full-scale aggression," Kyslytsia added.

As Ukrinform reported, on January 1, a third of the UN Security Council was renewed. Algeria, Guyana, Slovenia, Sierra Leone, and South Korea became non-permanent members, which will hold seats in the Security Council in 2024-2025.

Of the 15 members of the Security Council, the permanent members - in accordance with the UN Charter - are the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and the Soviet Union, whose seat was taken by Russia after the collapse, appropriating the relevant powers.

Non-permanent members are elected for two years. Albania, Brazil, Gabon, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates were members of the Security Council in 2022-2023. Malta, Ecuador, Japan, Mozambique, and Switzerland were elected as non-permanent members in 2023-2024.
In response to the escalating concerns surrounding foreign security threats, US institutions are taking proactive steps to fortify their defenses. The Association of American Universities (AAU) recently released a briefing highlighting the measures being implemented, focusing on increased training for researchers, enhanced scrutiny of foreign partnerships, and reviews of international contracts.

Taking National Security Seriously: AAU's Emphasis on Researcher Training

The AAU's briefing underscores the critical role of researchers in addressing national security threats posed by international actors. In a delicate balancing act, the association emphasizes the need for heightened awareness without succumbing to unnecessary over-regulation. The emphasis is on ensuring that researchers understand the gravity of these threats while navigating the evolving landscape of safeguarding American research.

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Concerns of Overreach: A Cautionary Note from AAU

While acknowledging the necessity of bolstering security measures, AAU's Senior Vice President for Government Relations and Public Policy, Toby Smith, voices concerns about potential overreach. Universities are still grappling with the implications of measures introduced in the past four years, and additional proposals are continually being considered by Congress. Smith emphasizes the importance of allowing universities the time to fully implement and assess existing measures before piling on more requirements.

Congressional Proposals: The DETERRENT Act and Beyond

Congress is actively considering several proposals aimed at protecting federally funded research data and intellectual property at US institutions. The DETERRENT Act, in particular, stands out as it seeks to reduce foreign gift reporting thresholds to $0 for "countries of concern." Republican Congress representative John James asserts that such measures are crucial, given the long-game strategy of the Chinese Communist Party in influencing the US through academia.

Another proposal in the spotlight is The Protect America's Innovation and Economic Security from CCP Act, advocating for the reinstatement of the controversial China Initiative. This initiative, introduced under the Trump administration, was designed to counter espionage threats. Simultaneously, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission's annual report suggests various recommendations, including an analysis of the risks associated with donations from China and Hong Kong to US universities.

The Impact on Research Value

Amidst these security measures, there is a growing concern that excessive regulations might diminish the value of research. Toby Smith points out that if a significant portion of time is spent on compliance rather than actual research, the return on investment could decrease. This raises a crucial question - at what point do heightened security requirements reach a saturation point where additional measures yield diminishing returns?

Chilling Effect on Collaborations: Legitimate Concerns

A notable apprehension revolves around the potential chilling effect these regulations might have on legitimate partnerships and student exchanges with China. The DETERRENT Act, if passed, would mandate universities to seek waivers from the Education Secretary for any contracts with a "foreign entity of concern." This includes research collaborations and student mobility agreements. Smith raises doubts about the Secretary of Education's ability to efficiently process the multitude of waivers, potentially hampering academic collaborations.

As Congress contemplates these security proposals, it is crucial to find the delicate balance between safeguarding national security and preserving the collaborative essence of academic research. US universities, while committed to addressing security concerns, urge policymakers to avoid measures that could inadvertently stifle innovation and harm national security rather than fortify it.

The ongoing debate underscores the complexity of the issue, with stakeholders needing to weigh the potential unintended consequences of heightened security measures on the vibrancy and global impact of American research and education. Striking the right equilibrium is imperative to maintain a robust academic environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, all while effectively addressing legitimate security concerns in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.

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As concerns surrounding indoctrination in educational institutions gain traction, a recent report by former civil servant Anna Stanley sheds light on a counter-terrorism course at King's College London.

The course, intended for civil servants and counter-terrorism professionals, is under scrutiny for allegedly delivering politically biased, anti-government training. This article delves into the key aspects of Stanley's experience, revealing potential implications for national security.

Inside the Classroom: A Depressing Experience

Stanley's account of the 'Issues in Countering Terrorism' course reveals a disconcerting narrative. Hosted by the Centre for Defence Studies at King's College, the three-day program included participation from civil servants representing various government departments. The lectures, delivered by senior academics from the Security Studies Department, reportedly instilled a sense of existential despair in attendees.

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Questioning Definitions: Terrorism Through a Relativistic Lens

The course commenced with a fundamental question: What is terrorism? The absence of opposing viewpoints raised eyebrows as the attendees were introduced to the notion that 'One man's freedom fighter is another man's terrorist.' Stanley's attempt to propose a collective understanding of terrorism faced resistance, highlighting a potential issue with cultural relativism in defining this critical term.

The Dangers of Moral Apathy: Cultural Relativism in Counter-Terrorism

Stanley emphasizes the peril associated with understanding terrorism through the lens of cultural relativism. The reluctance to make moral judgments on labeling organizations as terrorists could foster moral apathy. The article critiques the luxury of maintaining an equal stance on all cultures, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding that doesn't ignore the realities of terrorism.

Personal Narratives: A Troubling Revelation

The course took an unexpected turn when an attendee revealed personal connections to an individual who had joined ISIS. The ensuing discussion on the UK's Counter Terrorism Strategy, Prevent, turned contentious. The attendee argued that Prevent is inherently racist for focusing on Islamist extremism. The article explores the clash of perspectives and the potential consequences of such views on national security strategies.

Political Heavyweights and Lost Insights

Visiting speakers, including former heads of government agencies, added political weight to the course. However, the article suggests that their valuable insights may have been lost on the audience. A provocative question on civil liberties aimed at a former head of GCHQ exemplified a prevailing mistrust of state institutions, reflecting broader sentiments often observed in British universities.

Israel as a Case Study: A Controversial Perspective

The mention of Israel throughout the course, coupled with slides reflecting post-modern identity politics, adds a controversial dimension. The article dissects how Israel was presented as a powerful aggressor, contributing to the narrative that condemns terrorism as an endorsement of the strong over the weak. The inclusion of Israel in this context raises concerns about bias and the potential impact on perspectives.

The Silence on Recent Events: A Notable Absence

An intriguing aspect of the course was the absence of discussions on immigration as relevant to terrorism, except as a view 'given by the right wing.' The article explores the potential implications of this omission and how it aligns with the overarching emphasis that Islamist extremism is exaggerated while right-wing extremism is magnified.

Questionable Emphasis: Right-Wing Extremism and Dissent

The article highlights the disproportionate emphasis on right-wing extremism compared to the findings of a government-commissioned review. Stanley points out conflicting perspectives, with one lecturer discrediting the review's author and categorizing certain figures as far-right, raising questions about academic impartiality.

As the article concludes, it emphasizes the potential implications of biased counter-terrorism education on national security. The dissenting perspectives within the course, coupled with the influence of post-modern ideologies, underscore the challenges faced by educational institutions in delivering objective and comprehensive counter-terrorism training.

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Embarking on a Ph.D. journey is a monumental academic undertaking, and for many students, securing funding is a pivotal aspect of this scholarly adventure. The United States stands as a beacon for aspiring researchers, offering an array of distinguished universities that host fully funded Ph.D. programs across diverse disciplines. This article unveils five such institutions renowned for their commitment to cutting-edge research and academic excellence, shedding light on the opportunities they provide for advanced scholarship.

The Landscape of Fully Funded Programs

Fully funded Ph.D. programs in the United States typically encompass waived tuition and fees, coupled with an annual stipend. Some institutions go the extra mile by offering health insurance and additional benefits. These comprehensive packages make pursuing a Ph.D. in the U.S. an attractive prospect for scholars seeking financial support for their academic pursuits.

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The University of Chicago stands as a formidable institution for Ph.D. candidates in Anthropology. Aspiring scholars can secure financial support for up to eight years, contingent upon maintaining a commendable academic record. The comprehensive package includes a full-tuition scholarship, health insurance coverage, and a living stipend. This commitment to sustained support underscores the university's dedication to fostering prolonged and impactful research endeavors.

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers a Ph.D. program in Biological Sciences in Public Health, designed to equip students with specialized knowledge in disease prevention and treatment. Successful completion of this program grants tuition coverage, a stipend, and health insurance for a generous five-year period. Notably, international students are also eligible for these benefits, further enhancing the program's inclusivity and global impact.

The Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) beckons aspiring scholars for a Ph.D. in Business. Encompassing various fields, including accounting, organization studies, and information technology, this program extends a full-tuition scholarship and a monthly stipend to candidates pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy. MIT's commitment to nurturing research and academic growth is exemplified through this comprehensive financial support.

The Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University in Texas stands out for its fully funded Ph.D. program in Business. Upon admission, students receive complete financial assistance, preparing them for instructional roles in areas such as accounting, finance, organizational behavior, and strategic management. This program offers a tuition waiver and an annual stipend, emphasizing the importance of academic progress and engagement in either research or teaching assistantship.

Cornell University in New York excels in providing financial support to Ph.D. candidates in Chemical Engineering. Enrolled students benefit from a complete tuition waiver, health insurance coverage, and a stipend. The flexibility in financial support sources, ranging from teaching and research assistantships to fellowships, ensures that scholars have ample opportunities to focus on their academic pursuits without financial constraints.

In conclusion, these five distinguished institutions exemplify the commitment of U.S. universities to nurturing the academic journey of Ph.D. candidates. The fully funded programs they offer not only alleviate financial burdens but also underscore the importance of sustained support for researchers engaged in groundbreaking work. As funding scenarios can evolve, prospective applicants are advised to verify the current status of funding options directly with the respective universities or through official university websites, ensuring a seamless transition into a fulfilling and well-supported Ph.D. experience.

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Within the hallowed halls of academia, a practice known as "student poaching" continues to raise ethical concerns. Student poaching involves a faculty member hiring a colleague's research student without their full consent, a phenomenon that, while prevalent, is widely considered unethical. This article delves into the complexities surrounding student poaching, highlighting its ethical implications and proposing solutions to safeguard the fundamental values of collegiality within academic institutions.

The Unethical Undercurrents of Student Poaching

Student poaching is often perceived as a low-risk strategy to recruit known talents, particularly when a faculty member wishes to bring a student into their team. From the poacher's perspective, it may be rationalized as providing a better intellectual opportunity for the student or rescuing them from a perceived mediocre or unhealthy work environment. However, this practice is deemed unethical and unfair, as it erodes the core value of academia - collegiality.

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Collegiality as a Pillar of Academic Integrity

The importance of collegiality in academia emphasizes its role in creating a shared intellectual workspace where diverse ideas are welcomed, and collaborative solutions are developed. Collegial contributions are not only recognized but are also considered during academic promotions and tenure processes. The erosion of collegiality through student poaching poses a significant threat to the fabric of academic professionalism.

Proposing Solutions: Written Policies and By-Laws

To address the ethical dilemma posed by student poaching, the article proposes the development of written policies or by-laws within academic programs. These policies can serve as educational tools, enlightening campus communities about the corrosive impact of poaching on the academic work environment. Moreover, they can provide a structured framework for resolving inter-departmental or intra-university issues related to student poaching.

Challenges and Criticisms

Acknowledging potential criticisms, the article anticipates concerns about the effectiveness of rules in a complex human system. It recognizes the difficulty in instilling virtues that may alter individuals' minds and values. However, it argues that the academic community, supported by society, should engage in critical reflections on complex issues and moral dilemmas. These reflections, it contends, are essential for fostering wisdom and courage in navigating ethical challenges.

Countering the Rarity Argument

Addressing another potential criticism, the article dismisses the notion that student poaching is relatively rare and therefore not worthy of attention. It asserts that the actions, both moral and immoral, within a group or society are osmotically learned. If left unaddressed, student poaching could proliferate and potentially overwhelm the academic profession. The article advocates for self-regulation within the academic community to prevent the unchecked growth of unethical practices.

Educating Students on Ethical Responsibilities

The article extends its focus to the role of educating students about the ethical responsibilities associated with their research opportunities. It emphasizes the need for students to recognize that their academic pursuits are often the result of years of someone else's effort, securing resources and developing ideas. Students are urged to fulfill their project tasks conscientiously, particularly if they have willingly signed contracts related to grant projects.

Exceptional Cases and Documentation

While advocating for stringent policies, the article acknowledges exceptions to every rule. Instances where a student or staff member must be moved due to dysfunctional relationships, harassment, poor supervision, or lack of funding are recognized. However, it emphasizes the importance of appropriately documenting and reporting such cases to the authorities, ensuring a fair and transparent resolution through grievance committees or ombudsmen.

Preserving Collegiality

In preserving the spirit of collegiality, the article suggests alternative solutions, such as shared student supervision or co-funding models. However, it insists that the highest priority should always be given to collegiality when resolving conflicts over students, aiming to prevent lingering resentments within academic departments.

While rules may not guarantee collegiate behavior, by-laws serve as policy statements that guide individuals in making ethical choices. Upholding the overall morale of the academic family depends on the conscientious choices made by individuals within the academic community. By developing and adhering to policies that discourage student poaching, institutions can foster a culture of ethical responsibility and collegiality, safeguarding the integrity of academic pursuits.

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London South Bank University (LSBU) finds itself in the midst of financial turbulence, grappling with the write-off of 16 million in "bad debt." This substantial amount, attributed to weaker repayments on debts, including unpaid tuition fees from overseas students, has not only pushed the institution into a deficit but has also impacted a crucial banking covenant. This article delves into the financial challenges faced by LSBU, shedding light on the broader implications for universities relying on international student recruitment.

Understanding the Financial Dynamics

Unlike domestic students whose fees are channeled through the Student Loans Company (SLC), overseas students and those funded by employers are responsible for directly managing their fee payments to universities. With the frozen 9,250 fee cap for domestic teaching funding in England, universities have increasingly turned to international recruitment to bolster their revenues. However, this strategy comes with inherent risks, particularly when recruiting from nations where students face challenges in self-funding or as the global cost-of-living crisis affects their financial capacity.

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The LSBU Financial Landscape: A 16.3 Million Setback

In the financial statements for the academic year 2022-23, LSBU disclosed a notable "16.3 million charge to the bad debt provision." This charge, attributed to weaker repayments on debts, significantly impacted the institution's overall operating position, pushing it into a deficit of 16.4 million. The magnitude of this setback raises questions not only about LSBU's financial resilience but also about the broader financial health of universities navigating the complexities of international student funding.

The Rise in Bad Debt: A Sector-Wide Concern

LSBU's struggle with bad debt underscores a sector-wide concern as universities grapple with the consequences of increased reliance on international student recruitment. The shift in financial dynamics, with overseas students responsible for their fee payments, exposes universities to heightened risks. Economic challenges, such as the global cost-of-living crisis, further amplify the uncertainties surrounding students' financial capacities, leading to increased instances of bad debt.

The Impact on Banking Covenants: A Tangled Web

Beyond the immediate financial repercussions, LSBU's situation has triggered concerns regarding banking covenants. A banking covenant is a set of financial parameters that institutions must adhere to, ensuring a level of financial stability. LSBU's descent into a deficit could potentially strain its compliance with these covenants, raising questions about the university's ability to meet its financial obligations and maintain a stable fiscal profile.

Implications for Higher Education Institutions

The LSBU case serves as a cautionary tale for other higher education institutions considering a heightened focus on international student recruitment. While diversifying student populations can bring cultural richness and enhance global perspectives, it also exposes universities to financial risks that demand meticulous financial planning and risk mitigation strategies. The delicate balance between financial sustainability and global outreach requires careful consideration to avoid jeopardizing the overall stability of institutions.

Addressing the Root Issues: Strategies for Financial Resilience

To navigate the challenging landscape of international student funding, universities must adopt proactive strategies to address root issues. This includes conducting thorough assessments of the financial capabilities of target student demographics, implementing robust risk management protocols, and fortifying financial structures to absorb potential shocks. Additionally, fostering open communication with overseas students about the implications of the cost-of-living crisis and exploring alternative funding models can contribute to long-term financial resilience.

Looking Ahead: The Imperative of Financial Prudence

As universities chart their courses in an increasingly interconnected global education landscape, financial prudence becomes paramount. LSBU's experience serves as a stark reminder of the financial uncertainties inherent in international student recruitment. Institutions must strike a balance between ambitious growth goals and prudent financial management to ensure sustainability and resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges.

London South Bank University's write-off of 16 million in unpaid fees unveils the intricate financial challenges universities confront in the pursuit of global engagement. This setback emphasizes the imperative for institutions to reassess their financial strategies, placing a heightened emphasis on risk mitigation, transparent communication, and robust financial planning. As universities navigate the dynamic landscape of international student recruitment, the lessons drawn from LSBU's financial journey serve as a guidepost for fostering resilience and sustainability in higher education.

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January 22 2024

A York-based property developer is doubling down on Edinburgh student housing after securing private equity funding for two new build schemes.

S. Harrison has secured forward funding from Singapore-based Q Investment Partners to deliver 141 studio rooms across twin developments at East Newington Place, off Newington Road and the Canongate.

In Newington, a disused commercial unit will be demolished and replaced by a four-storey block overseen by Comprehensive Design Architects. Comprising 65 studio rooms with supporting study rooms, multimedia rooms, gyms, break-out space, cycle storage and open courtyards.

A similar approach in the Canongate will see the delicate removal of existing buildings to create room for 76 studio rooms and supporting amenities, to designs by 3DReid Architects.

David Clancy, from S Harrison, said: Construction work at East Newington Place will start in the coming months, with the scheme complete and ready for the 2025 student intake. We also expect demolition work to begin imminently at Canongate, with the development ready to open for the start of the 2026 academic year.

With planning permission already in place for both projects work is expected to get underway in a matter of months.
The Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) on Monday suggested that visa cards should be issued to truck drivers for a period of around three months for resumption of Pak-Afghan trade

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) The Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) on Monday suggested that visa cards should be issued to truck drivers for a period of around three months for resumption of Pak-Afghan trade.

A PAJCCI delegation presented the suggestion during a meeting with Afghan Consul General in Peshawar Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir.

The Pak-Afghan trade is presently suspended due to closure of border for the last more than one week over visa restriction from both the countries for truck drivers.

The PAJCCI delegation comprised its KP Coordinator Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi and Director Imtiaz Ahmad Ali.

During the meeting the PAJCCI delegation and Afghan Consul General held discussion over border situation and its impact on commerce and trade in the region.

The Afghan Consul General supported the suggestion of issuing special visa cards to truck drivers for a period of three months to end the deadlock over visa restriction.

Earlier, the PAJCCI delegation apprised Afghan Consul General about the efforts made by PAJCCI for re-opening of border and meetings held with authorities in Pakistan.

They also met with Visa Section Head, Molvi Muhammad Raza Rehmani who apprised them that Afghan Consulate was issuing visas to hundreds of Pakistanis on daily basis.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) Caretaker Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Monday said that elements involved in the malicious campaign against the superior judiciary would be taken to task but no group or person would be victimised.

He was addressing a press conference flanked by Director General Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Ahmed Shamim Pirzada and Director General Operations Federal Investigation Agency Waqar uddin.

The minister said that judicial decisions were in the public domain and as per the Constitution and the masses could comment on them.

Condemning the malicious campaign against the superior judiciary and judges on social media, he said that character assassination of someone was a serious violation of the law and the Constitution. He underlined the need to discourage the culture of deceit and intolerance from society.

He said a joint investigation team had been formed to probe the anti-judiciary campaign and the relevant institutions including FIA and PTA were investigating the ongoing propaganda. He said that Article 19 of the Constitution defines freedom of expression with certain restrictions. The minister said that the caretaker government was set up under a constitutional process and it was written in the preamble of the Constitution that the country will be run by representatives of the people.

He said that elections will be held across the country on February 8 and there should be no doubt about it.

The minister said that strict measures will be taken against those involved in illegal activities.

Lashing out at those churning out lies and malicious propaganda to mislead the nation for their vested interests, he urged the general public to beware of misleading and fake news.

He advised people to verify every bit of information before sharing it on social media platforms.

Referring to the involvement of internal and external elements in the anti-judiciary campaign, he said that anyone who violated the law would be dealt with according to the law without any discrimination.

He said that the objective of this press conference was to warn such elements against running the malicious campaign.

He said that both FIA and PTA were investigating the matter and hundreds of social media accounts were monitored and action would be taken against the culprits under the law of the land.

Spreading lies was the business of some people as this was part of their " political economy " as they received hefty amounts but these false news do not benefit the people of Pakistan.

"As the elections are approaching we have to be wary of lies and misinformation," Murtaza Solangi said, adding that the people should verify before sharing such false and false news.

To a question, he said the campaign against the judiciary was launched from within the country and abroad and those involved were connected.

Replying to a question he said that action would be taken only against those who were involved in the campaign to malign the judges of the superior judiciary and no group or person would be targeted.

He said the present caretaker regime was non-political and it had no political friends or opponents, so it had no intention to target any political party or group.

He said that Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar had the Ministry of Interior portfolio and all the ministry institutions were fully operational.

Answering a question regarding disruption in the Internet, he said that during the past few days, the internet service had some problems due to technical glitches and it had nothing to do with politics.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) revoked the notification issued by Returning Officers (RO) to defer the elections in NA 83 Sargodha-II and 85 Sargodha-IV.

The postponement was initially announced due to the unfortunate demise of the contesting candidate, Sadiq Ali.

A panel of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, heard the case regarding the postponement of elections in NA-83 and NA-85 Sargodha. The District Returning Officer (DRO) and Returning Officer (RO) of Sargodha attended the proceedings.

The candidate from the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) informed the bench that he received a notice from the Returning Officer (RO) stating that a candidate had passed away, and a death certificate dated January 15 was provided. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the mentioned candidate had died on January 2, and the funeral prayer had taken place on January 3.

A conspiracy was devised to delay the elections in these two Constituencies. The Deputy Commissioner of Sargodha conducted an inquiry into the matter.

PML-N candidate urged the bench not to postpone the elections.

The District Returning Officer (DRO) informed the bench that he, too, conducted an inquiry. Consequently, it was established that the candidate Sadiq Ali had passed away on January 2. The inquiry committee gathered statements from Sadiq Ali's mother, daughter, and the prayer leader who led the funeral prayers of the deceased.

The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) questioned why the Returning Officer (RO) did not conduct an inquiry before deciding to postpone the elections. The RO of NA-85 informed the bench that a fake death certificate had been presented, and it was established that the candidate had indeed passed away on January 2. The secretary of the union council stated that the death certificate was issued based on the request of the deceased candidate's son and the verification of the relevant Numberdar. The Numberdar revealed that his signature on the certificate was forged. The CEC reprimanded the secretary of the union council.

As a result, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) revoked the notifications issued by the ROs postponing the elections in NA-83 and NA-85.
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The sources say these 'terror attacks' might be orchestrated by female suicide bombers affiliated with the banned organizations between January 22 and 24.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Jan 22nd, 2024) The numerous educational institutions in the Federal capital were temporarily shut down due to alert indicating a potential terrorist attack, the sources privy to the development said on Monday.

The decision to shut down educational institution was taken to avert any potential disaster.

The sources said that a banned organization purportedly planned multiple 'terror attacks' on educational establishments, with a particular focus on schools and universities in Islamabad.

The sources said,  these 'terror attacks' might be orchestrated by female suicide bombers affiliated with the banned organizations between January 22 and 24, said the sources privy to the development.

The police said that the robust security measures were in place in the capital, cautionary advice was issued, especially in relation to election rallies and public gatherings in the federal capital.

The CTD Punjab released a statement stating that a security high alert had been declared due to a perceived terror threat, with IBOs underway across Punjab. The spokesperson elaborated that 23 operations were conducted in various districts over the last seven days, resulting in the interrogation of 23 suspects. Additionally, two high-profile terrorists, namely Abdul Samad and Ikramullah Khan, were apprehended during these IBOs. Abdul Samad was taken into custody in Sialkot, while Ikramullah Khan was arrested in Nankana Sahib.

Earlier in 2021, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) had issued a security high alert nationwide due to a potential terror threat, leading to intelligence-based operations (IBOs) being conducted in Punjab.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) Caretaker Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi on Monday visited Radio Pakistan to offer condolences with its Director General Saeed Ahmed Sheikh over the demise of his mother.

On the occasion, the minister offered prayers for the departed soul and sympathized with Saeed Ahmed Sheikh over the tragedy.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family including Saeed Ahmed to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude.

There is no substitute for mother, the minister said while expressing grief over the death of the mother of the DG Radio.

Expressing words for solace of the DG Radio, Solangi said he should be felt satisfied for serving her mother during her last days.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, once the leading Republican rival to Donald Trump, ended his election campaign on Sunday and threw his support behind the former president.

DeSantis's withdrawal, after months of weakening support, leaves only low-polling Nikki Haley standing between Trump and nomination as the Republican Party's candidate for the US presidential election in November.

In a video message, DeSantis said that following his second place finish last week in the Iowa caucuses he could not ask "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."

The decision came less than two days before the New Hampshire primary, where polls showed him far behind front-runner Trump and former UN ambassador Haley.

"It's clear to me that a majority of Republican Primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," DeSantis said, noting he has had differences with the former president, notably over the coronavirus pandemic.

"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."

Trump stormed to victory in Iowa last Tuesday, with 51 percent of Republican voters choosing the twice-impeached former president over DeSantis, who gained only 21 percent, and Haley at 19 percent.

No candidate has ever lost the race after claiming the first two states, and Trump would almost certainly declare the Republican nomination over with a win in New Hampshire.
Warsaw, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Jan, 2024) Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk was visiting Kyiv on Monday, his office said, his first trip to the war-torn country since returning as head of government of one of Ukraine's most ardent EU supporters.

"Prime Minister Donald Tusk has travelled to Kyiv on January 22," his press service said, adding that Tusk would meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmygal during the trip.

Tusk returned as Poland's head of government in December, following October elections that ousted the right-wing nationalist Law and Justice Party (PiS) after eight years in power.

He has vowed to continue Poland's steadfast support of its eastern neighbour following Russia's invasion in February 2022.

In recent comments, he said that the situation in Ukraine "is question number one for Polish security".

"Other questions must also be discussed, notably those linked to interests of Polish truckers, so there are things to discuss in Kyiv," he said.

Polish truckers blocked the border with Ukraine from November until last week, demanding the reintroduction of restrictions to enter the EU for their Ukrainian competitors.

The EU had waived the permit system after Russia invaded, but Polish truckers want it reintroduced, saying the move has hit their earnings.
The United Nations said Monday that the Taliban government in impoverished Afghanistan had recently forced hundreds of females out of their jobs for allegedly not adhering to Islamic law requirements imposed on women nationwide.



The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, or UNAMA, documented the job dismissals in its latest report on human rights, covering the last quarter of 2023 in a country where millions of people need humanitarian aid.



The de facto authorities continue to enforce and promulgate restrictions on womens rights to work, education, and freedom of movement, according to the report.



UNAMA noted that the Talibans Ministry of Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice had taken the enforcement role, impeding women from working or accessing services because they were unmarried or did not have a male guardian.



It said that a lack of compliance with the hijab or dress code, absence of a mahram, or male relative, and other restrictions imposed on women visiting public places, offices, and educational institutions had apparently led to at least 600 women losing jobs in two Afghan provinces during the reported period.



The provincial chapter of the ministry banned 400 women from working in a pine-nut processing plant in eastern Nangarhar province in October without providing any reasons, while men were allowed to continue working, the report stated.



It added that a Taliban-run power plant in northern Balkh province in November dismissed 200 women allegedly due to financial reasons, yet no male employees faced the same action. In one instance, the vice and virtue ministry officials advised an unmarried female staff at a healthcare facility to get married or risk losing her job, stating that it was inappropriate for an unmarried woman to work, the report said.



Last month, the ministry officials visited a bus terminal in southern Kandahar city to ensure that women were not traveling long distances without a male relative and instructed drivers not to allow female passengers to board buses if they are not accompanied by a chaperone, according to the UNAMA findings.



The report said that women without male relatives in the eastern Paktia Province have been denied healthcare access since early December, with authorities from the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice continuing to visit provincial health facilities to ensure compliance.



UNAMA stated that while there is no general ban on womens employment in Afghanistan, the mahram requirement effectively limits their right to work if they do not have a male relative who can accompany them to workplaces.



The report recorded instances of arbitrary arrests and detentions, sentencing, and some releases of human rights defenders and journalists, including women, from October to December.



The de facto authorities continue to infringe the right to freedom of expression by limiting the publics opportunity to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas, UNAMA said.



The report also documented growing suicide bombings and other attacks on members of the countrys predominantly Shiite ethnic Hazara community over the past three months. The violence, mostly claimed by Islamic State militants, killed nearly 50 Afghan Shiite Muslims and wounded many more.



The U.N. mission said its human rights workers continued to record extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and detentions, and torture and ill-treatment of former Afghan government officials and security forces. The Taliban have persistently denied the charges, saying they are adhering to a general amnesty their leadership announced after seizing control of Afghanistan in August 2021.



The fundamentalist Taliban have since imposed their strict interpretation of Islamic law, banning Afghan girls from receiving an education beyond sixth grade and most female employees from public as well as private workplaces.



The international community has denounced the Taliban curbs on women and demanded they be removed immediately. No foreign country has recognized the de facto Afghan government, mainly over human rights concerns and the treatment of women.

The Taliban rejected Mondays U.N. report, claiming it shows the world bodys ignorance about Sharia or Islamic law.



Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief Taliban spokesman, asserted in an English-language statement that denouncing Islamic rules as an act against human rightsis obviously an insult to people's beliefs.



Mujahid advised UNAMA to desist from criticizing the Afghan nations religious matters.



Women's hijab, the necessity of Sharia mahram with women, Sharia environment for women's work and education.these are all the commitments and responsibilities of a responsive and Islamic government, he said.
The United States called for Israel to protect civilians in hospitals as Israeli forces pressed ahead in its fight against Hamas militants in Gaza, carrying out airstrikes Monday in the territorys northern, central and southern regions.

White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said Monday that while Israel has a right to defend itself, "We expect them to do so in accordance with international law and to protect innocent people in hospitals, medical staff and patients as well, as much as possible."

Reuters news agency reported that Israeli troops Monday stormed a hospital in Al-Mawasi district, west of the southern Gazan city of Khan Younis. Gaza Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra told the news agency that Israeli forces arrested medical staff at the hospital.

Israel has blamed Hamas for putting civilians in danger, saying the militant group intentionally operates in and around hospitals and has created a network of tunnels underneath.

Israel vowed to destroy Hamas, which governs Gaza, after the militant group sent fighters rampaging into Israel on October 7, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli tallies. Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and others, also took about 240 people hostage.

The Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza says at least 25,295 Palestinians have been killed in the war, many of them women and children. The ministry does not specify the number of civilians and Hamas fighters among the dead.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said Monday that the way Israel is carrying out its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip is seeding hate for generations.

Borrell spoke ahead of separate talks EU ministers held Monday with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz and the Palestinian Authoritys top diplomat, Riyad al-Maliki.

We have in mind what Hamas is, what Hamas has done, and certainly we reject and we condemn, Borrell told reporters. But the peace and stability cannot be built only by military means, and not in this particular way of using military means.

The humanitarian situation could not be worse, Borrell said. There [are] no words to explain how the situation is, with hundreds of thousands without anything, without shelter, without food, without medicine and under the bombs.

In fighting Monday, airstrikes were reported across the Gaza Strip, with intense battles in Khan Younis, the second-largest city in Gaza.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said its ambulances were unable to reach the wounded in Khan Younis due to Israeli troops besieging the groups ambulance center.

Also Monday, groups of relatives of the Israeli hostages disrupted an Israeli parliamentary committee meeting, demanding lawmakers do more to free those still being held. The demonstration was the latest in a string of similar actions in recent days, including a protest Sunday near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus Jerusalem residence.

Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal by Hamas to end the war.

In exchange for the release of our hostages, the Israeli leader said in a statement, Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists. And leaving Hamas intact."

"I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," Netanyahu said.

Hamas on Sunday defended its terror attack on Israel but admitted to "faults" and called for an end to "Israeli aggression" in Gaza.

In its first public report on the attack that began the war, the militant group said it was a necessary step" against Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and a way to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners.

In late November, in a deal brokered by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, more than 100 of the estimated 240 hostages who were taken captive to Gaza were freed in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

Since that deal ended, Netanyahu has faced mounting pressure from within Israel and from some world leaders to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in captivity, perhaps two dozen of whom have died or been killed.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Monday Cameroon became the first country to establish a routine malaria vaccination program for children.

Its a historic day, Aurelian Nguyen, chief program officer of the Gavi vaccine alliance told Agence France-Presse, marking a turning point in fighting the disease. We have been working on the malaria vaccine for a very long time . . . 30 years.

Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. People often experience flu-like symptoms and, if left untreated, they can develop severe complications and die.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reports that there were an estimated 241 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2020 and 627,000 people died. Most of the deaths were of children in sub-Saharan Africa.

Two different vaccines have recently been approved for the fight against malaria. Cameroon is using the GlaxoSmithKline vaccine. An Oxford University vaccine is expected to be available later this year.

Both vaccines require multiple doses and neither stops transmission. Medical officials are urging people to continue to use bed nets and insecticide sprays in the fight against malaria.
Chinas human rights record will come under public scrutiny Tuesday as the United Nations Human Rights Council holds the fourth Universal Periodic Review Working Group from January 22 to February 2.

As one of 14 states under review at this session, some analysts and rights advocates say the occasion offers a rare opportunity for China to be held accountable for its human rights obligations.

The Universal Periodic Review is one of the rare opportunities for U.N. member states to give recommendations or comments on the human rights situation in China, so from that point of view, Tuesdays review is unique, William Nee, research and advocacy coordinator at Chinese Human Rights Defenders, a U.S.-based activist network, told VOA by phone.

Since its inception in 2008, the UPR has reviewed all 193 U.N. members three times. China's last review was in November 2018. In preparation for the three-hour review, the U.N. releases three separate reports, including a stakeholder report summarizing concerns shared by NGOs, the U.N.s assessment of the state of human rights in China, and a national report submitted by Beijing.

In the stakeholder report, international NGOs highlighted Chinas lack of commitment to international human rights treaties, the lack of protection of basic rights for Chinese citizens, and the ongoing persecution of ethnic minorities.

Chinese authorities say in their report that they have accepted more than 80% of the recommendations put forward by various countries during the last UPR and that they uphold the protection of human rights as a task of importance in state governance.

Despite Chinas assertion of implementing recommendations from other countries and regularly listening to inputs from NGOs, some experts say the scope of human rights abuses committed by Beijing has expanded since the last UPR in 2018.

If we look at what Beijing said they had accepted in 2018, we see almost the opposite in the area of protection of freedom of expression, in ensuring rights of minorities and some concerns were raised around business and human rights, Sarah Brooks, Deputy Regional Director for Asia at Amnesty International, told VOA by phone.

Ahead of Tuesdays UPR, several human rights organizations and some American lawmakers have highlighted the various kinds of human rights violations committed by Beijing over the last few years, including sending more than one million Tibetan children to boarding schools, the large-scale persecution of the Uyghurs, and the bounties imposed on more than a dozen overseas Hong Kong activists.

We want to see U.N. member states refer to the different types of abuses that China has committed against the Uyghur people, including the detention camps, bilingual education policies, boarding schools, forced sterilization, and the repressive system thats still in place, Zumretay Arkin, the spokesperson for World Uyghur Congress, told VOA in a recorded message.

In its national report, China claims that all ethnic groups have equal enjoyment of rights in all areas in accordance with the law and that it has embarked on a path of human rights development that is suitable to its national conditions.

Despite Beijings defense of its human rights record, some experts say its important for concerned U.N. member states to challenge China on a wide range of human rights issues in a smart and accurate way.

Since the last UPR, U.N. treaty bodies and U.N. human rights experts have produced an incredible amount of communications about [human rights abuses in China] that are very hard-hitting, Nee from Chinese Human Rights Defenders told VOA. I hope U.N. member states can use that information and reference human rights laws and standards when formulating their questions for China.

While the UPR serves as a rare occasion for the international community to scrutinize Chinas human rights records, Nee also expects China to push back against criticism of human rights abuses in the country by rallying support from some U.N. member states.

China is going to get as many countries as possible to give softball questions or praise its human rights record, he said, adding that Beijing will try to build an alternative narrative around its human rights record.

To attract global attention to human rights persecutions committed by the Chinese authorities, several organizations are organizing relevant events in Geneva this week, including an event focusing on Tibetan human rights and a press briefing examining the outcome of the UPR.

Some analysts say efforts by these organizations can hold the Chinese government accountable.

These efforts are very important because they are some of the clearest and most factually grounded representations of the Chinese governments conduct, Sophie Richardson, former China director at Human Rights Watch, told VOA by phone.

While Beijing will likely dismiss concerns about human rights violations raised by some U.N. member states, Richardson hopes concerned governments will press for an investigation into human rights violations committed by Beijing.

The scope and scale of human rights violations in China is clear, and the question is whether concerned governments are willing to come together and try to do something about it, she said.

In her view, since China has committed some acts of transnational repression in other countries, democratic countries now have responsibilities to deal with these challenges.

I would say democratic countries have more reasons than ever to work in coalition to push back against Chinas human rights violations, Richardson told VOA.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a decree Monday that could grant Ukrainian citizenship to foreigners fighting in Ukraine against Russia.

The legislation was introduced Monday on the anniversary of Ukraines Day of Unity, commemorating the unification in 1919 of western and eastern Ukraine, which has faced numerous invasions over its long history.

Thousands of foreigners rushed to Ukraine to defend the country alongside its soldiers when Russian forces invaded the country in 2022.

"Foreign volunteers who took up arms to defend Ukraine, all those who fight for Ukraine's freedom as if it were their homeland. And Ukraine will become such for them," Zelenskyy said in a post on social media.

Zelenskyy also announced that the new proposed legislation would formally allow ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from all around the world to gain dual citizenship, with the exception of Russia.

"Those who, with the outbreak of a full-scale war, regardless of their place of residence, birth or passport, said in the affirmative, 'I am Ukrainian.' ... Ukrainians by origin, who have long proven that they are Ukrainians in spirit. And after many years of waiting, they should finally become Ukrainians by passport," he added.

The decree, if approved by the Ukrainian parliament, would bypass Ukraines constitution, which does not give Ukrainian citizens the right to dual citizenship. So, millions of people of Ukrainian origin who live abroad have not been able to hold Ukrainian passports so far.

The process would take about a year, so long as Ukrainian lawmakers approve and the constitutional court authorizes the decree.

The presidential decree also called for an action plan that would help preserve the identity of about 4 million Ukrainians living in Russia, the largest Ukrainian diaspora group in the world.

The decree, Zelenskyy said, would help restore the truth about the historical past for the sake of Ukraines future, and counter Russian "misinformation" that aims to undermine the ethnic identity of Ukrainians living in Russia.

The Day of Unity has been marked as a national holiday in Ukraine since 1999.

The idea to mark the Day of Unity appeared almost a decade before that, when the country was still part of what was then the Soviet Union. Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians joined together on January 21, 1990, to form a live chain connecting Kyiv, the capital, with several other nearby cities in a show of unity and nationalism.

Some information for this report came from Reuters, Agence France-Presse and RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service.
The European Union sanctioned six Sudanese entities Monday for their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where the regular army (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been fighting since April.

According to a statement issued by the Council of the EU and the European Council, the entities are "responsible for supporting activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan."

Those sanctioned played roles in arming or financing rival warring factions, according to the EU, adding to Sudan's worsening instability.

The conflict has pitted current army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against his former deputy and leader of the paramilitary RSF, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, causing thousands of deaths and displacing millions.

According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), more than 7 million people have been displaced due to the conflict, and at least 13,000 have been killed.

Among the entities targeted by the EU sanctions, three are controlled by Sudanese armed forces which include part of the Defense Industries System conglomerate, while three others were linked to Dagalo and his brothers. In the Council of the EU and European Council's statement, it was specified that two of the firms played a role in manufacturing weapons and vehicles, and that the others had a role in obtaining military equipment to be used in the conflict.

While the EU has condemned the violence in Sudan since the conflict began, these more stringent measures follow similar actions by other states.

The United States imposed sanctions in December on three former Sudanese officials for their role in undermining peace, security and stability in Sudan.

That followed sanctions imposed by both the U.S. and U.K. on businesses connected to military groups in Sudan.

Some material for this report came from Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
The U.S. ambassador to Iraq met Sunday with former Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, the Iraqi politician's office said, a day after pro-Iran militants struck U.S. forces in the country.

The meeting in Baghdad with Ambassador Alina Romanowski comes amid soaring regional tensions, the fallout from more than three months of war between U.S. ally Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, supported by Tehran.

Ballistic missiles were launched Saturday at a base hosting U.S. forces in western Iraq, in an attack claimed by "Islamic Resistance in Iraq," a loose alliance of Iran-linked militants that oppose U.S. support for Israel in the Gaza conflict.

Since mid-October, shortly after the Israel-Hamas war erupted, there have been dozens of attacks on U.S. and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, deployed there to fight jihadis of the Islamic State group.

Maliki, an influential figure in Iraqi politics and one of the top leaders of a pro-Iranian bloc, discussed with Romanowski "the future of bilateral relations" with the United States and "the escalation in regional tensions," a statement from his office said.

He stressed "the importance of strengthening the ties of friendship and cooperation" between Baghdad and Washington, the statement added.

Maliki also warned against "the expansion of the war" with "multiple crises the region faces" in the Palestinian territories, Lebanon, the Red Sea, Syria and Iraq.

He called for "swift action to reduce tensions and put an end to mutual attacks."

Romanowski has not commented on the meeting. She regularly meets Iraqi officials and leaders across the political spectrum.

Maliki's faction is part of the Coordination Framework, Iraq's main pro-Iran coalition which has a majority in parliament.

The current Iraqi prime minister, Mohamed Shia al-Sudani, was nominated by the Coordination Framework and relies on the support of Iran-aligned parties.

The Coordination Framework unites veteran politicians and former paramilitaries.

It includes opponents of Saddam Hussein's regime who have taken the helm since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that toppled the former dictator, alongside the Hashed al-Shaabi  a collection of mainly pro-Iranian former paramilitary units now integrated into the Iraqi armed forces.

One of the Hashed's factions, Kataeb Hezbollah, expressed Sunday their support for "Islamic Resistance in Iraq."

A spokesperson for the group, Abu Ali al-Askari, said "the brothers of the resistance keep striking enemy strongholds," calling in a statement to "continue the escalation of operations."

The United States has about 2,500 soldiers in Iraq and nearly 900 in Syria.

Sudani has repeatedly said in recent weeks he would like to see foreign troops leave Iraq.
This year's executive board meeting at the World Health Organization opened at a time of multiplying global health emergencies, but also at a moment when the U.N. health agency can point to "many achievements and milestones" in public health.

"After almost three-and-a-half years in May, I declared an end to both COVID-19 and mpox as global health emergencies, although both remain global threats," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told delegates on Monday.

"More than two-thirds of the global population has now received a complete primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine," he said. "COVAX, which closed at the end of last year, played a vital role, delivering nearly 2 billion doses and saving an estimated 2.7 million lives in lower-income countries."

The meeting also opened on a particularly auspicious day  the same day that the first of two WHO-recommended life-saving malaria vaccines were rolled out in Cameroon, the first country in the world to begin routine malaria vaccinations.

WHO reports that more than half a million children under age 5 die from malaria every year, most in Africa.

"Having two vaccines for malaria will help to close the huge gap between demand and supply, and could save tens of thousands of young lives, especially in Africa," said Tedros.

The WHO chief presented a snapshot of some of last year's other achievements in promoting, providing and protecting health. These include progress in reducing the number of smokers in 150 countries worldwide; in supporting more than 50 countries to build climate-resilient, climate-friendly health systems; and in supporting and increasing countries' access to essential medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and other products.

Additionally, WHO reports that more than 7.5 million people with tuberculosis received access to diagnosis and treatment in 2022, the most in almost 30 years. Tedros said progress also has been made in HIV treatment, noting that more than 75% of people living with HIV globally now receive antiretroviral therapy.

"We are now beginning to see a path towards the [sustainable development goals] target of ending the HIV epidemic," he said, adding that "Australia became the first country to announce that it is close to the virtual elimination of HIV transmission, in inner Sydney."

He also said good inroads also were being made in helping countries achieve universal health coverage, based on strong primary health care.

New data published by WHO and the World Bank show that half the world's population is not fully covered by essential health services, and that "2 billion people face financial hardship due to out-of-pocket health spending."

Tedros said that countries who attended a high-level meeting at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September "made more than 50 commitments to progressively expand access to essential health services, and to improve financial protection."

"Indeed, that is what WHO is doing all over the world," he said. "Through the Universal Health Coverage Partnership, we are supporting 120 countries to advance towards universal health care," he said.

The 34-member board meets annually to set the agenda of the World Health Assembly and implement the decisions and policies of that body.

"2024 will be a defining year for global health and for our WHO," said Tedros. "This year, you have the opportunity to shape the world's global health strategy for the next four years. This year, you have the opportunity to shape the future of health emergencies."

Last year, he noted, WHO responded to 65 acute emergencies, from earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, to conflict and insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Haiti, Myanmar, Sudan, Ukraine, and "of course, the occupied Palestinian territory, especially Gaza."

"We supported countries to access vaccines and treatments to respond to outbreaks of cholera, diphtheria, meningitis and yellow fever," he said. "And emergency medical teams played a vital role in our response to 19 emergencies in 18 countries."

He flagged the passage of a legally binding pandemic prevention and preparedness agreement at the World Health Assembly in May to be of crucial importance and mentioned that world leaders at the UNGA in September agreed to conclude negotiations on the pandemic agreement and amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) by May.

"I must say I am gravely concerned that member states may not meet that commitment," he said. "Time is very short, and there are several outstanding issues that remain to be resolved. In my view, a failure to deliver the pandemic agreement and the IHR amendments will be a missed opportunity for which future generations may not forgive us."

He appealed to all member states "to work with urgency and purpose to reach consensus on a strong agreement that will help to protect our children and grandchildren from future pandemics."
Ron DeSantis has ended his campaign for the U.S. Presidency and has endorsed front-runner Donald Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejects the two-state solution again. And new Tech startups in Nigeria are having a difficult time getting funding after several failed last year.
Authorities in central China's Henan province were looking Sunday into the cause of a night-time fire that killed 13 schoolchildren as they slept in a dormitory.

The inferno, which took place at the Yingcai School in Yanshanpu village, was reported to the local fire department at 11:00 p.m. (1500 GMT) Friday and was put out around 40 minutes later, official news agency Xinhua said.

Thirteen students died in the accident, while one other person suffered injuries.

Dozens of police were in and around a cordoned-off area near the school Sunday, AFP journalists witnessed.

An official at the scene told AFP, "There is an investigation ongoing inside. Nobody can go in."

Several windows on the side of the school were broken  the only obvious signs of a major accident at the building.

Vertical metal bars covered the school's windows, AFP saw, while a permanent sign on the building's facade read: "Enter the kindergarten happily and go home happily."

In a video shared Sunday on Chinese social media site Weibo, a man surnamed Fan  the father of a boy who died in the fire  said that blood samples had been taken from parents to compare their DNA with the victims.

"We parents haven't seen our kids yet... We can only see them when the results are available," said Fan.

"My kid has been studying very hard," he added.

"I can't accept it."

Little information about the boarding school is publicly available, though social media videos published earlier showed young children including kindergarteners wearing smocks with the school's logo as well as older children learning calligraphy.

A teacher at the school told state-run newspaper Hebei Daily that all the victims were from the same third-grade class of nine and 10-year-olds.

Rapid response

On Sunday morning, a row of shops next to the school stood mostly shuttered, while a small clinic in a crumbling courtyard building appeared unattended.

A few locals went about their day and a couple of children played as police cars made loops around the cordoned-off area.

Some people passing by Sunday morning stared at the scene, and one man at an auto workshop across the street told AFP that he had been unaware of the fire until the following morning.

Authorities in the area are investigating the fire's cause, and at least one person linked to the school has been detained, Xinhua reported Saturday.

No official explanation of the precise cause of the deadly blaze has yet been provided, although some domestic media reports suggested it was related to an electric heating device.

Yanshanpu village lies on the outskirts of Nanyang, a city of nearly 10 million people about 850 kilometers (528.2 miles) west of Shanghai.

Nanyang Radio and Television reported Sunday that local officials had held a meeting Saturday to discuss follow-up work for the deadly fire and improving safety measures in the future.

"Life is above all else and a rapid response is necessary," a readout of the meeting published by Nanyang Radio and Television said.

"Do a good job in dealing with the aftermath, put oneself in the others' shoes, be compassionate, patient and meticulous in giving emotional comfort to families of the victims, lawfully compensate them, and provide relief for those in need," read the report.

The reason for the fire must be "quickly identified," it said, adding that "relevant duties will be strictly investigated in accordance with the law."

Fires and other deadly accidents are common in China due to lax safety standards and poor enforcement.

In November, 26 people died and dozens were sent to hospital after a fire at a coal company office in northern China's Shanxi province.

The month before, an explosion at a barbecue restaurant in northwestern China left 31 dead and prompted official pledges of a nationwide campaign to promote workplace safety.

In April, a hospital fire in Beijing killed 29 people and forced desperate survivors to jump out of windows to escape.
Hundreds of mourners gathered Monday in Tehran for the funerals of Revolutionary Guards commanders killed in Syria, in what Iran called an Israeli strike.

It was the latest incident adding to regional tensions and fears of wider conflagration during the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

The strike in Damascus on Saturday killed five members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the military force said. Iranian media later reported the victims included the group's intelligence chief for Syria, and his deputy.

Mourners carried aloft coffins bearing some of the victims, draped in colors of the Iranian flag, before a stage bearing pictures of IRGC General Qassem Soleimani who was killed four years ago by the United States.

A funeral dirge sounded.

State media reported that funeral processions were planned for three of the five IRGC members killed.

Asked about the strike, Israel's military said it does not comment "on reports from the foreign media."

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported at the time that the strike hit the Damascus neighborhood of Mazzeh where leaders from the IRGC and pro-Iranian Palestinian factions live.

A total of 13 people were killed, added the British-based monitor which has a network of sources in Syria.

The strike came four days after the IRGC said it hit an Israeli "intelligence headquarters" in Irbil, the capital of Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region.

Baghdad said the missiles struck a businessman's family home.

Iran also hit alleged Islamic State group targets in Iraq's western neighbor Syria.

In a statement carried by Iran's official IRNA news agency, the IRGC said its Iraq strike was "in response to the recent vicious actions of the Zionist regime (Israel) which martyred the commanders of the Revolutionary Guards and the resistance front."

Last month, a strike in Syria killed Razi Moussavi, a senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Quds Force. Moussavi was the most senior Quds Force commander to be killed outside Iran in four years.

Iranian state media blamed an Israeli missile strike.

In early January a strike in the southern Beirut stronghold of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement killed the Hamas deputy leader, Saleh al-Aruri. A U.S. defense official has told AFP that Israel carried out that strike.

Days later, a strike in southern Lebanon killed Wissam Tawil, the highest-ranking Hezbollah member to be killed since the war began between Israel and Iran-backed Hamas. Hezbollah blamed Israel.
Israel's cabinet approved a plan for frozen tax funds earmarked for the Hamas-run Gaza Strip to be held by Norway instead of transferred to the Palestinian Authority (PA), officials said Sunday.

Under interim peace accords reached in the 1990s, Israel's finance ministry collects tax on behalf of the Palestinians and makes monthly transfers to the Western-backed PA, which exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

But there have been constant wrangles over the arrangement, including Israel's demand that the funds do not reach Hamas, which it and most of the West deem a terrorist group.

Hamas seized control of Gaza from the Western-backed PA in 2007 after a brief civil war, and two years after Israel withdrew settlers and military forces. Despite the Hamas takeover, many PA public sector employees in Gaza kept their jobs and continued to be paid with transferred tax revenues.

Israel is now at war in Gaza to wipe out Hamas after a cross-border terror attack by militants of the Palestinian Islamist movement on Oct. 7.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the cabinet decision on the tax funds was supported by Norway and the United States, which will be a guarantor that the framework holds.

Netanyahu's offices said the money, or any equivalent, will not be transferred "in any situation, except with the approval of the Israeli finance minister, and also not through a third party."

The Palestine Liberation Organization said Sunday it wanted the money in full and would not accept conditions that prevent it from paying its staff, including in Gaza.

"Any deductions from our financial rights or any conditions imposed by Israel that prevent the PA from paying our people in the Gaza Strip are rejected by us," Hussein Al-Sheikh, secretary-general of the executive committee of the PLO, said on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

A spokesperson for Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who heads a far-right, pro-settlement party, confirmed that Norway would hold the funds under the arrangement.

"Not one shekel will go to Gaza," said Smotrich, who has long been opposed to transferring funds to the PA.
Kenya says it wants to promote peace in East Africa and has no problems with neighboring countries. At the same time, there are undeniable signs of diplomatic strains with at least four neighbors, including two that recently recalled their ambassadors from Nairobi.

Kenya's effort to assert itself as a regional political force and economic hub in eastern Africa is not going over well with some of its neighbors.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan recalled their ambassadors after their governments accused Kenya of hosting and dealing with their countries opposition groups in Nairobi.

Uganda, meanwhile, recently took Kenya to an East African court in Tanzania over an oil distribution dispute. The case is about Kenya not allowing Ugandan government oil marketers to operate within its borders. This comes after Uganda discontinued the previous open tender system for purchasing petroleum products from Kenya.

Also, Tanzania banned Kenya Airways flights from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam last week because Kenya allegedly denied permission for Tanzanias national carrier to operate cargo flights to Nairobi. The ban was lifted after discussions between the foreign affairs ministers of the two countries.

Kenyan Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi said Sunday that his country is not at war with its neighbors and wants to bring peace to the region.

Some states are vulnerable, others are in conflict, and our president, William Samoei Ruto, is on the front line, making sure peace returns in these countries, said Mudavadi. He says the wars in those countries will affect our country too."

Kenya has come under criticism from some Africans and its own citizens on how the government is handling engagement with other states.

International relations expert Kizito Sabala says the diplomatic spats are growing out of countries trying to counter Kenya's influence.

"There is always going to be a tug-of-war with what Kenya tries to do from the neighbors, Sabala said. But from my point of view, I don't think there is really something very serious to worry about. These are things that will continue to come as Kenya tries to assert itself as a regional power. And the other countries will try to find any leverage to use it in order to bring that down."

Kenyan President Ruto, who came to power more than a year ago, has met several heads of state in Africa, including his neighbors, promising to help solve Africa's chronic problems of conflict and hunger, and to bring economic development.

Sabala says such assertiveness from a new leader will get pushback.

"They are reacting the way they are reacting because I think in Nairobi we have a new president who is very assertive and who seems to be projecting this to the region and therefore I think that in itself seems to be telling them, no, no, no, no, let's stop here, Sabala said. But I think with the time they'll just get used to the way our president is doing things and that's fine. I don't think it's a big, big issue to worry about."

Experts urge Kenya to handle the conflict in the Congo cautiously, especially regarding rebel groups that have contributed to the country's instability. They also want Kenya to refrain from taking sides in the Sudan conflict, which has pitted the country's armed forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces against each other.
Amid rituals conducted by Hindu priests, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened a grand temple built in the northern town of Ayodhya in honor of one of Hinduisms most revered gods, Lord Rama.

The ornate, pink sandstone temple has risen on the site of a 16th century, Mughal-era mosque that was destroyed by Hindu mobs three decades ago.

Our god Ram has come. Centuries of sacrifice and patience has paid off, Modi told a massive crowd after the black stone idol of Lord Ram was unveiled. He said that January 22 brings the dawn of a new era.

The inauguration of the flower-bedecked Ram Mandir that sprawls over three hectares fulfils a pledge by Modis Bharatiya Janata Party, which led a decades-long movement to build the temple on the site of the mosque, which Hindus believe was built on the ruins of a temple that marked the birthplace of Lord Ram.

But for many Muslims, the temple is a reminder of the destruction of the mosque.

In December 1992, a huge mob of Hindu right-wing activists used hammers, axes and bare hands to demolish the mosque, sparking nationwide religious riots that killed nearly 2,000 people. It was the worst communal violence witnessed in India since its independence.

The religious event was showcased as one of historic and national importance in the Hindu majority country.

Among the more than 7,000 people who witnessed the ceremony, telecast on a giant screen outside the temple in the small town, were top politicians, billionaire tycoons and Bollywood stars. Air force helicopters showered flowers on the temple. The federal government declared a half day holiday.

In Ayodhya devotees beat drums and danced as loudspeakers played devotional songs. In cities, towns and villages, where excitement had been building for weeks, many lit earthen lamps as they heeded calls by Modi to celebrate the day like the biggest Hindu festival, Diwali. Saffron flags depicting Lord Ram fluttered outside many homes and shops. Millions watched the telecast of the ceremony in their homes.

However, some leading Hindu religious seers declined to attend, saying that it was against Hinduism to perform rituals in the temple since part of its construction has still to be completed.

Most opposition parties also stayed away, accusing the Prime Minister of using the temples inauguration for political gain. Congress Party leader, Rahul Gandhi, called it a "completely political Narendra Modi function."

Ahead of the temples consecration, Modi embarked on an 11-day Hindu purification ritual that included fasting and visiting temples across the country. He presided over the religious ceremony.

Critics have accused Modi of blurring lines between religion and the state in the country with a secular constitution.

The temple is being promoted by Modi as a highpoint in Indias civilizational history, according to political analyst Rasheed Kidwai. The BJP makes no pretensions that the religious concerns of the majority Hindu community are on top of their political agenda.

In the 1990s, the campaign to build the temple stirred up Hindu nationalism and catapulted the BJP, which until then was a marginal political party, into a dominant political force.

The mood was upbeat among many Hindus as the $217 million temple opened. Many said that seeing the 1.3 meter tall black stone sculpture of Lord Ram being unveiled in the temple was an emotional moment. I am really happy. It is a matter of faith for me, said Nitin Kumar in New Delhi.

The ornate temple, which stretches across a 28-hectare complex, has risen on a religious site that marked one of the most bitter disputes between Hindus and Muslims, who make up Indias largest minority.

Very systematically, Babri Masjid has been taken away from Indian Muslims. Had the Masjid not been demolished in 1992, we wouldn't have to see things how they are today," Asaduddin Owaisi, head of the Muslim party All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, and a member of parliament said Saturday.

Following a decades-long court battle over the sites ownership between Hindu and Muslim groups, the Supreme Court granted the site to Hindus in 2019 even as it called the mosques destruction an egregious violation of the rule of law. A year later, Modi laid the foundation stone of the temple.

The BJP and right-wing Hindu groups are portraying the rise of the temple as a moment of Hindu awakening following centuries of domination by Muslim and colonial powers, say analysts.

After decades of fight and struggle, this is being presented as a victory, a victory ceremony with Modi as the head of it, according to author and political analyst, Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay, who called the temple a symbol of the politics of revenge and triumph.

The spotlight on the grand new temple, ahead of national elections that are expected to begin in April, is likely to give momentum to the partys campaign. Modi rose to power in 2014 on the pledge of development, but he has also pushed what some commentators call a Hindu first agenda during his two terms in office.

The fact that Modi has been in power for ten years could have led to some dip in support. That deficit could be bridged or topped-up with the inauguration of the temple, especially in North India, where the party has a strong support base, according to political analyst, Sandeep Shastri.

Critics have raised questions whether the prime ministers high-profile participation in a religious ceremony undermined the multicultural ethos on which India was founded.

The BJP calls this a moment of national rejuvenation. But this rejuvenation is going to be singular in character, not reflecting the pluralistic nature of Indian society and the Indian states commitment to it when we became independent, according to Mukhopadhyay.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a proposal Sunday by Hamas militants to end the war in Gaza that now is in its fourth month.

In exchange for the release of our hostages, the Israeli leader said in a statement, Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists. And leaving Hamas intact." "I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," Netanyahu said.

Hamas on Sunday defended its October 7 terror attack on Israel but admitted to "faults" and called for an end to "Israeli aggression" in Gaza.

In its first public report on the attack that began the war, the militant group said it was a necessary step" against Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, and a way to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners.

In late November, in a deal brokered by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, more than 100 of the estimated 240 hostages who were taken captive to Gaza during the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, were freed in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

Since that deal ended, Netanyahu has faced mounting pressure from within Israel and from some world leaders to secure the release of the 136 hostages who remain in captivity, perhaps two dozen of whom have died or been killed.

Some world leaders, but not U.S. President Joe Biden, have called for an immediate cease-fire in the fighting. About 1,200 Israelis were killed in the initial attack, and, according to Hamas health officials, more than 25,000 in Gaza during Israels counteroffensive, including civilians and militants.

Netanyahu in recent days has also taken a strong position against Palestinian statehood to stabilize the volatile Mideast and prevent the spread of the Israel-Hamas war throughout the region. Biden and other American officials have called for Palestinian statehood.

"I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said.

Biden on Friday said he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for the creation of an independent Palestinian state that could include a nonmilitarized government.

Netanyahu said that he has faced down "international and internal pressures" to change his position on Palestinian statehood.

"My insistence is what prevented for years the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have posed an existential danger to Israel," Netanyahu said.

British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News Sunday that it is disappointing to hear of 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.

Discussing his administration's position Friday, Biden said, There are a number of types of two-state solutions. Asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, No, its not.

Biden said he had spoken with Netanyahu on Friday, the first call the White House had in nearly a month with the Israeli leader.

Netanyahus 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."

Netanyahu is increasingly facing 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.

The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry said Sunday the Gaza death toll is at 25,102, with about 70% of the victims being women and children. Health officials said 62,681 people have been wounded.

In the past 24 hours, the ministry said 178 Palestinians have been killed and 293 injured.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Envoys of Pakistan and Iran will return to their posts by the end of this week, Pakistan and Iran announced Monday.

The latest sign of de-escalation comes almost a week after Iran struck alleged terror targets inside Pakistan and Islamabad responded with counterstrikes against purported terror hideouts across the border. The strikes killed at least 11 civilians, 9 in Iran and 2 in Pakistan.

Amid unprecedented tensions Islamabad recalled its ambassador from Tehran last Wednesday and told the Iranian envoy, who was on a trip to his home country, to not return. Islamabad also suspended all high-level visits between the two countries.

Mondays press release, issued jointly by the foreign ministries of both the countries, said Irans Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian will visit Pakistan on January 29 at his Pakistani counterpart Jalil Abbas Jilanis invitation.

In a phone call Friday, the top diplomats of both countries agreed to defuse tensions and reestablish full diplomatic ties.

Analysts VOA spoke to say that while smoothing over ruffled ties is necessary and welcome, Irans unprovoked attack on Pakistan may have opened a Pandoras box in the region.

Messaging tool

Iran has said it was targeting Sunni separatist group Jaish al-Adls hideouts on Pakistani soil.

Anti-state insurgents targeting Pakistan and Iran have been active along the 900-kilometer border between the two countries for years. They frequently mount deadly attacks against security forces.

The terrorist threat in the region has also expanded with hardline Sunni terrorist group Islamic State or IS targeting Shiite Muslims in both countries. The group claimed responsibility for twin blasts at an event near the tomb of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps General Qassem Soleimani on January 3. The blasts in southeastern Iranian city of Kerman killed more than 100 people.

While Pakistan acknowledges the IS presence in the country, the group has a bigger, highly organized structure in Afghanistan.

Washington-based security affairs expert Kamran Bokhari told VOA Iran's strikes were not necessarily a response to rising terrorism but meant to send a message to Washington in the context of the bloody Israel-Hamas war that has killed thousands in Gaza.

Since the war started last October, Washington has targeted Iranian proxies in the Middle East and the Red Sea while Tehran has struck U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria several times.

They [militant hideouts in Pakistan] provided an excuse for Iran to do something different, which is basically to telegraph to the United States that look, we know that you are talking about a direct confrontation with us. But, if you do that, then we have the capability to further expand this war, said Bokhari who serves as a senior director of Eurasian security and prosperity at the Newlines Institute.

Bokhari believes Tehran picked Pakistan, as its a U.S. ally but mired in economic, political and security crises, and therefore, less likely to engage in a massive confrontation.

Pakistans counterstrike marked the first time Iran faced a direct attack since the Iran-Iraq war ended in 1988.

While the Biden administration condemned the Iranian action, Bokhari thinks those in Washington who favor a direct confrontation with Tehran may say, We've never struck on Iranian soil. Now that the Pakistanis have done it, it sets a precedent.

Islamabad-based security affairs expert Syed Muhammad Ali told VOA that while Pakistan and Iran managed to de-escalate quickly, any other country contemplating to attack Iran should not expect the same outcome.

Even if it gives some ideas to some other countries, I think, they will have to factor in Iranian possible response options based on their own bilateral history and geostrategic convergences or divergences, Ali said.

Pressure tool

While Tehran and Islamabad work to normalize ties, some are concerned sectarian groups may be exploited as a pressure tool.

Pakistan has a history of sectarian violence as Saudi-funded Sunni and Iran-funded Shiite armed groups came head-to-head in the 90s. Targeted killings on sectarian basis still occur.

On Sunday Pakistani officials claimed apprehending a terrorist trained by a foreign country. Authorities said he was getting support from a neighboring country and linked him to Zainabiyoun Brigade, an Iranian-backed militia.

Pakistan is, both, being cautious not naming Iran, but also talking about perpetrators that may be linked with Iran, said Ayesha Siddiqa, a military affairs expert and senior fellow at Kings College London.

Siddiqa said Pakistan and Iran have no choice but to continue to de-escalate tensions to avoid possible sectarian strife.

Shrinking space for militants

On Monday Pakistan armed forces media wing announced the military killed seven terrorists in an operation near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Baluchistan. The statement did not specify which outfit the slain militants were from.

In Pakistans counterstrike across the Iranian border, Islamabad claimed killing Baloch insurgents.

Ali told VOA he believes the space for anti-state actors that target Iran and Pakistan might shrink after last weeks events.

However, he said military operations are only a part of Pakistans multi-layered counterinsurgency strategy  that also relies on other incentives to encourage separatists to lay down arms.
Pakistans military said seven militants were killed Monday in an exchange of fire with security forces in Pakistans volatile southwest region near Afghanistan.

The brief military statement said munitions were also recovered after the shoot-out in the Zhob district of Baluchistan province.

Dawn, a Pakistani newspaper, reported munitions included arms, ammunition and explosives.

Militants in the mineral-rich region have for years called for a share of Baluchistans mineral resources but are now calling for the provinces independence.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press.
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Russian immigrants in many countries hit the streets Sunday, protesting on the three-year anniversary of the imprisonment of Russias best-known opposition leader, Alexey Navalny. Richard Green narrates VOAs report from Los Angeles.
The Spanish Supreme Court ruled Monday that a 2021 mass deportation of minors from the Spanish enclave of Ceuta to Morocco was illegal.

Hundreds of unaccompanied minors were part of a group of around 12,000 people who tried to enter Ceuta from Morocco in May 2021 by scaling a border fence or swimming around it.

The mass border crossing took place amid a diplomatic dispute between Madrid and Rabat regarding Western Sahara.

After the border crossing, approximately 700 minors were deported to Morocco, despite Spanish law that requires the government to take administrative steps for each minor it deports, including collecting information on their circumstances and holding a hearing if deemed necessary.

Government lawyers cited a 2007 agreement between Spain and Morocco outlining the process for assisted returns to Morocco in the case of "exceptional circumstances," but the Supreme Court dismissed this defense, ruling that it did not supersede Spanish law.

The court ruled that the deportation violated the "physical and moral integrity" of the migrants and breached the European Human Rights Convention. It cited Article 4 of Protocol No. 4 of the European Human Rights Convention, which says that the "Collective expulsion of aliens is prohibited."

The Spanish Interior Ministry had defended the 2021 deportation of youths and has denied that it breached international law.

Many of those who crossed the border in 2021 were believed to be Sub-Saharan migrants who sought to find a better life in Europe.

Tens of thousands of migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa make the trip from Northwest Africa to Spain each year.

More than 6,600 migrants died while trying to reach Spain by boat last year from West Africa, according to the Spanish group, Caminando Fronteras, which works to defend the rights of migrants.

Some material for this report came from Reuters and The Associated Press.
Writer E. Jean Carrolls defamation case against former U.S. President Donald Trump was suspended Monday after one of the jurors called in sick.

U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan told lawyers for Carroll and Trump that one of the nine jurors hearing the case was on his way to court when he began to feel flulike symptoms and called the court to report he was feeling ill.

One of Trumps lawyers, Alina Habba, also said she had been exposed to Covid after visiting with her parents a few days ago and was not feeling well, but she and another Trump attorney tested negative for Covid at the courthouse.

It was not immediately clear when the case might be heard again, with Habba asking that it not be resumed until Wednesday because of Tuesdays Republican presidential primary in the northeastern state of New Hampshire. Polling there shows Trump, trying to reclaim the White House, holds a substantial edge over his last remaining challenger, Nikki Haley, his one-time ambassador to the United Nations.

Trump has said he wants to testify in the Carroll case and had left the campaign trail to be in the courtroom when the proceeding was suspended. Carrolls lawyer said she wanted to continue again on Tuesday, with Kaplan saying he would decide later.

Trump, the leading Republican presidential candidate, has long disparaged the claims of Carroll, a one-time advice columnist for Elle magazine, in social media posts and at campaign events.

But Kaplan has ruled that if Trump testifies, he cannot dispute her account of the attack, since a jury in a related case last year already decided that he sexually abused her after a chance encounter at the posh Bergdorf Goodman store and awarded her $5 million in damages.

The case last year stemmed from Trumps disparagement of Carroll in 2022 comments, while the case set to be decided now by the nine-member jury dates to comments he made in 2019 while he was president, just after Carroll had published a book in which she recounted her accusations.

Trump said then that Carroll, now 80, was totally lying and that he could not have raped her because she was not his type.

Carroll testified last week, It means Im too ugly to assault.

The jury is tasked only with deciding what damages, if any, Carroll is entitled to because of Trumps 2019 comments. With the limitations on his testimony, it was not clear exactly how Trump might defend himself. She is seeking $10 million or more.

Trump, 77, has alternated trips to the New York courtroom with campaign swings through New Hampshire.

He has treated the court case like a campaign stop, holding news conferences at the end of the day to attack Carrolls claims and Kaplan as biased against him.

They are weaponizing law enforcement at a level like never before, Trump said Sunday night at a New Hampshire rally, adding, You know where Im going to be. I dont have to be there, but I want to be there because otherwise, I cant get a fair shake. Im going to be in court.

The Carroll defamation claims are in a civil case, and Trump faces no threat of imprisonment. But he does face an unprecedented 91 criminal charges across four indictments in cases that could go to trial this year.

As Carroll testified last week, her attorneys complained to Kaplan that Trump was making disparaging side comments about her to his lawyers that the jury, seated fewer than 4 meters away, could possibly hear.

The complaints by Carrolls lawyers led to a contentious exchange between Trump and the judge.

Kaplan told Trump that his right to be at the trial would be revoked if he continued to ignore warnings to keep his comments to his lawyers quieter and out of earshot of the jury.

But after an initial warning, Carroll's lawyer said Trump could still be heard making remarks to his lawyers, including, "It is a witch hunt" and "It really is a con job."

After excusing the jury for lunch, Kaplan told Trump, I hope I don't have to consider excluding you from the trial. I understand you're probably eager for me to do that."

"I would love it," Trump shot back, shrugging as he sat at the defense table between Habba and another of his lawyers, Michael Madaio.

"I know you would like it. You just can't control yourself in this circumstance, apparently," Kaplan responded.

"You can't either," Trump muttered.

As Trump watched, Carroll told the jurors, "I'm here because Donald Trump assaulted me, and when I wrote about it, he said it never happened. He lied and shattered my reputation.

Once, Carroll testified, she was a respected advice columnist. "Now, I'm known as the liar, the fraud and the whack job."

Trump made repeated disparaging comments about Carroll on his Truth Social platform in the days leading up to the trial.

Carroll testified last week, "He has continued to lie. He lied last month. He lied on Sunday. He lied yesterday."
Polish and Ukrainian leaders pledged Monday to bolster their alliance against Russias invasion of Ukraine, putting aside differences over the recent Polish blockade of Ukrainian trucks trying to enter the European Union.

In his first visit to Kyiv since being elected prime minster of Poland, Donald Tusk described Ukraines defensive war against the Russian invasion as a battle between "good and evil," adding, "Poland will do everything to increase Ukraines chances of victory in this war."

"The security of the Polish nation and the Polish state is also at stake in this fight," Tusk said at a joint media briefing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Relations between the two countries had soured in recent months because of Polish blockades against Ukrainian trucks at the border.

Polish truckers enforced the blockade from November until last week, protesting Ukrainian truckers' permit-free access into the EU.

The EU had waived the permits system after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, but Polish truckers want it reintroduced, saying their earnings have taken a hit. The truckers agreed last week to suspend their protests until March 1.

Tusk returned to Polish politics last month after serving as president of the European Council.

Tusk and Zelenskyy hailed plans for joint arms production while Zelenskyy said on X, formerly Twitter, that they had discussed a new form of cooperation aimed at larger-scale arms purchases for Ukraine. He did not provide details.

Tusk's surprise trip to Kyiv coincided with Ukraines Unity Day, commemorating the 1919 unification of western and eastern Ukraine, which has faced numerous invasions over its long history.

Zelenskyy marked the day by signing a decree offering dual Ukrainian citizenship to ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from all around the world, apart from Russia, as well as foreign fighters who took up arms alongside Ukrainian soldiers to defend Ukraine against the Russian invasion.

Drone attacks

Meanwhile, Ukraines military said Monday that it had thwarted Russian drone attacks in multiple parts of the country overnight, while Russian officials accused Ukrainian forces of carrying out a vicious attack in a Russia-controlled city in eastern Ukraine.

The Ukrainian air force said its air defenses had downed eight drones launched by Russia, including in the skies over the Mykolaiv, Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Officials said the drones had come from Russias southern Primorsko-Akhtarsk region.

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov accused Ukraine of using indiscriminate weapons and attacking civilian infrastructure, leaving at least 27 people dead in the city of Donetsk on Sunday.

Peskov also said Monday that Russia was taking necessary measures after a suspected Ukrainian attack on a Baltic Sea fuel export terminal.

Ukraines military remained tight-lipped about both attacks.

US defense secretary

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will attend a meeting on Ukraines military aid virtually from his house, as the defense chief continues to recover from complications of prostate cancer treatment that led to his secret hospitalization, the Pentagon said Monday.

Tuesday's virtual conference will mark Austin's first public engagement since treatment.

The meeting comes as Republicans in Congress have blocked President Joe Bidens emergency funding request for Ukraine, seeking increased security along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh said that while the United States is committed to Ukraine, lawmakers need to pass more funding for Kyiv as it battles Russian forces. "Our partners, our allies continue to do that, despite the fact that we do not have a supplemental [funding bill] that's been passed by Congress," Singh told reporters.

Biden has requested $61.4 billion in additional military funding for Ukraine as well as for replenishing U.S. stocks as Ukraine nears the two-year mark of its war with Russia. The funds sought for Ukraine are part of a supplemental funding request that also includes $14.3 billion for Israel and $13.6 billion for U.S. border protection.

Lavrov at the UN

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday attended a U.N. Security Council meeting on Ukraine in New York.

At the meeting, requested by Russia, Lavrov focused on U.S. and European arms support to Ukraine, saying the aid was dragging out the conflict. He did not address Western accusations that Moscow has been procuring drones and missiles from Iran and North Korea.

It is cynicism of the highest order to claim that legitimate and lawful support for Ukraines self-defense is prolonging Russias war of aggression, U.S. envoy Robert Wood told the council.

More than 40 ambassadors joined Ukraines envoy in the reading of a public statement ahead of the meeting. The statement condemned Russias aggression and its procurement of weapons from Iran and North Korea  which is a violation of several U.N. Security Council resolutions.

The Russian Federations actions undermine the credibility of Security Council resolutions, undermine the global nonproliferation regime, exacerbate regional tensions and endanger us all, Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.N. Sergiy Kyslytsya read on behalf of the group.

Asked by a reporter whether Ukraine could win the war, Kyslytsya said, Ukraine will win this war. But not only Ukraine, but all the democratic world.

Next month marks two years since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Some information came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
The US Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear the case of an Oklahoma man convicted of murder, whose story has sparked appeals for clemency from Pope Francis and Hollywood stars.



Richard Glossip, 60, had been scheduled to be put to death by lethal injection on May 18, but the nation's highest court put his execution on hold.



The stay came after the Oklahoma attorney general, a Republican, asked the court, in an unusual move, to halt the execution, citing questions about the fairness of his trial.

Following the Supreme Court's Monday announcement that it would hear Glossip's appeal, his lawyer John Mills said his team was "grateful" and emphasized that Glossip had "maintained his innocence throughout a quarter century."



"Mr. Glossip has faced execution nine times, even though the state knew full well that the evidence used to convict him and sentence him to death was false," Mills said.



Glossip was convicted of the 1997 fatal beating of an Oklahoma City motel owner, but has steadfastly maintained his innocence.



Glossip, who worked at the motel, was found guilty of hiring another motel employee, maintenance man Justin Sneed, who was 19 at the time, to carry out the actual murder.



Glossip was convicted based on the testimony of Sneed, who pleaded guilty and was able to negotiate a life sentence, claiming that his co-worker had masterminded the plot.



Actors Mark Ruffalo and Susan Sarandon and British billionaire Richard Branson have been among the celebrities advocating for Glossip's life to be spared.



In 2015, when Glossip's execution also appeared imminent, the representative of Pope Francis in the United States sent a letter on behalf of the pontiff to the then governor of Oklahoma asking that the execution be called off.



His case has also been the subject of a four-episode documentary series titled "Killing Richard Glossip."
The leaders of Western Balkan countries pledged Monday to make full use of the European Union's financial support plan of 6 billion euros ($6.5 billion) as they continue to seek membership in the bloc.

Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Albania are at different stages of the accession process. Their leaders gathered in North Macedonia's capital, Skopje, and said in a joint statement they were committed "to the development of their countries to follow European standards."

In November, the European Commission presented a Growth Plan for the Western Balkans to enhance economic integration with the EU's single market, boost regional economic integration, accelerate fundamental reforms, and increase financial assistance.

The plan includes a proposed 6-billion-euro reform and growth scheme to be given out over three years, 2024-2027, contingent on agreed reforms. Its main aim is to help double the Western Balkans' economy throughout the next decade. The funding hopes to address frustration among residents of candidate countries with the slow pace of the membership process, as well as maintain the countries' alignment with the West as Russia's war against Ukraine continues.

Present at Monday's meeting were Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Kosovo's Albin Kurti, Montenegro Prime Minister Milojko Spajic and the North Macedonian premier, Dimitar Kovacevski.

The U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs James O'Brien, and the director general for neighborhood and enlargement negotiations at the European Commission, Gert Jan Koopmann, were also present.

"Each country is responsible for its own reforms and for working with as many of its neighbors as it can," O'Brien said. "So now, the countries that seize the initiative will get the benefits sooner and they will not have to wait until some unrelated dispute is resolved."
The Hamas Media Office released a pamphlet in English, titled Our Narrative: Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. If, on the one hand, it clarifies the matter concerning the abuses which have been attributed to Hamas, on the other hand, it adds to the confusion regarding its nature and objectives.

After describing the suffering endured by the Palestinian people since the end of the Ottoman Caliphate, it denies having perpetrated abuses against civilians and states that "Avoiding harm to civilians, especially children, women and elderly people is a religious and moral commitment by all the Al-Qassam Brigades fighters. While acknowledging that Maybe some faults happened during Operation Al-Aqsa Floods implementation, it clarifies that: "The allegations that the Al-Qassam Brigades on Oct. 7 were targeting Israeli civilians are nothing but complete lies and fabrications. The source of these allegations is the Israeli official narrative and no independent source proved any of them. It is a well-known fact that the Israeli official narrative had always sought to demonize the Palestinian resistance, while also legalizing its brutal aggression on Gaza."

"We are confident that any fair and independent inquiries will prove the truth of our narrative and will prove the scale of lies and misleading information in the Israeli side. This also includes the Israeli allegations regarding the hospitals in Gaza that the Palestinian resistance used them as command centers; an allegation that was not proven and was refuted by reports of many western press agencies," it continued.

Hamas calls on the International Criminal Court to conduct an independent investigation into these facts in order to identify and convict the individuals who perpetrated them.

Additionally, the brochure ends with a description of the organization that contradicts its previous publications. Hamas assures that "Its goal is to liberate Palestine and confront the Zionist project. Its frame of reference is Islam, which determines its principles, objectives and means. Hamas rejects the persecution of any human being or the undermining of his or her rights on nationalist, religious or sectarian grounds."

"Hamas affirms that its conflict is with the Zionist project not with the Jews because of their religion. Hamas does not wage a struggle against the Jews because they are Jewish but wages a struggle against the Zionists who occupy Palestine."

The pamphlet concludes by claiming an end to the Israeli occupation and the freedom of Palestinians to decide their own future. However, it never alludes to a Palestinian state. Likewise, it only refers to the International Court of Justice in connection with its decision on the illegality of the Separation Wall, suggesting that it does not regard it as a court that rules on disputes between States.

Historically, Hamas is the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, from which it claims to have separated since the Brotherhoods defeat in Syria in 2017. At the time, it was not fighting for Palestinian independence, but for the restoration of a Caliphate. Today, Hamas is divided into two currents, one under the authority of the Palestinian leader of the Muslim Brotherhood, Mahmoud Al-Zahar; the other is linked to the Palestinian Resistance, under the leadership of Khalil Hayya.

This brochure therefore falls short of clarifying its political position. The name of the October 7 operation, Al-Aqsa Flood, refers to the liberation of the Al-Aqsa Mosque; a Quranic truth, according to guide Mahmoud Al-Zahar.

Israel supported the historical branch of Hamas, loyal to the Muslim Brotherhood, but is determined to eliminate the leaders of the current that has joined the Palestinian resistance, such as Saleh al-Aruri, recently assassinated in Beirut (Lebanon).
Music fans should be on notice that concerts could start really late sometimes. It seems like a tough one to win. Photo: Kevin Mazur

Madonna took the lyrics of Hung Up a little too literally last month, after the queen of pop started her trio of concerts at Brooklyns Barclays Center more than two hours late each night. The time? It really does go by so slowly when youre waiting with 20,000 fellow attendees in cone bras and wedding dresses. A duo of aggrieved fans decided to take it a step further, though, and sue Madge over her delayed start, accusing her in a class-action lawsuit of false advertising and negligent misrepresentation.

A perpetually tardy performer, Madonna has been sued twice in the past for similar infractions. This new suit hinges on the claim that exhausted ticket-holders had to get up early to go to work and take care of their family responsibilities the next day, which they allege are consequential enough for damages. But  are they? Is this just a normal rite of passage for seeing an illustrious diva live, or are there legitimate legal complexities for being fashionably late? Benjamin Gross, general counsel at MediaLab and an adjunct lecturer of the law of music at Columbia University, was summoned to weigh in on the matter. It maybe says something a little bit about your fanbase, he says with a laugh. If your fans are getting sleepier, it might be because youve got older fans than you used to.

My first thought reading about this lawsuit was, Oh wow, this is kind of the death of rock and roll and pop star outrageousness. So what if she was late for a show? But people have been pretty even-handed with their opinions of the merit of this case.

I had the same reaction. When I searched the case, everyone on Reddit seemed to be like, Good! About time! They were really happy about this. I agree with you, the reaction has been surprising.

Do you find this legitimate or a stunt tactic?

Im of two minds about it. Im sympathetic to the plaintiffs as a sleepy person myself. I probably would have left if the concert started two hours late. But theres a concept in the law broadly about having constructive notice or actual notice of something thats a defense of negligence or anything like that. Music fans should be on notice that concerts could start really late sometimes. It seems like a tough one to win. Did you notice that the firm doing this has sued Madonna twice about this already?

Yes, and both of those fizzled out and were voluntarily dismissed. Does this set a bad precedent moving forward?

I would speculate that both of those lawsuits settled, based on what I read. Anyone who went to those concerts  since these are class-action complaints in principle  should have gotten a notice of the settlement and a check. You know when somebody sues Apple about a random battery thing and you happen to have bought that product, so you end up getting an $8 check in the mail? Its exactly what this is. I doubt the plan is to litigate this to completion.

What do you imagine each attendee will pocket from this? I attended the same show and look forward to the riches that await me!

What is the average ticket to a Madonna concert cost? Around $200 for this tour? Im sure it will be a fraction of that. My educated guess would be $20. The whole point here is that theyre not willing to refund people for this.

What is the point of the suit if its not for a huge profit?

With these types of class actions, the party that stands to benefit the most are the attorneys who are filing it. They get a percentage of the total settlement, whereas each individual plaintiff being the attendees of the concert will each get their own share. The attorneys benefit the most.

Ill go line by line about a few notable things these fans are alleging. The concert was advertised to start at 8:30 p.m. but didnt begin until 10:30 p.m., so they left the venue around 1 a.m. when the show ended. The complaint reads they never would have agreed to purchase the tickets if it was pushed to two hours later. Is this sound legal logic?

In principle, when you enter into a contract when you purchase something, you have certain expectations that youre relying on. If those are proved to be incorrect and were misrepresented by the seller, thats sound in theory. If this were ever to go forward, there are a lot of defenses wed see Madonna and her team make. Presumably there are terms and conditions they have with Ticketmaster with these tickets. If they had language around potential delays, it wouldnt surprise me. Theres also the possibility that there was no intent here. Maybe Madonna was sick, or maybe she had a valid excuse for being late. Its hard to know. Theres also the question  and this is the funniest thing for me  what are the damages here? Its like, the damage is you have to stay up later.

These fans left the Barclays Center and, despite being dazzled by a very well-reviewed Madonna show, lament that they were confronted with limited public transportation, limited ride-sharing, and/or increased public and private transportation costs. Are those damages?

I guess so. But this is New York City. Is it actually that much more expensive to get an Uber at the Barclays Center two hours after you were planning on leaving? The subways and buses still run at night. If they could prove that, there would be some amount of damages there. If the plaintiffs had a babysitter and they needed that person to stay on longer? If you came into work sleepy and were fired? There are countless other damages you can imagine. But this is tough and tricky in a class action. There needs to be commonality among the damages for the whole class. Those things arent true for every individual fan who was in that concert.

My favorite part of this complaint is that the fans gripe about Madonnas flippant difficulty while starting the show. How can something like that be proven?

With that line, its more relevant to the promoters. They sued Live Nation and the Barclays Center as well. Theyre basically trying to say Live Nation and the Barclays Center knew Madonna has demonstrated flippant difficulty in having timely performances in the past, but they still promoted her show as starting at 8:30 p.m. despite Madonna always being late. If the phrase is being used to suggest the promoters were aware or shouldve been aware this wasnt going to start on time, thats why theyre also being sued.

Lets say there was a strict noise curfew in place in a city. Because of this, Madonnas lateness means the concert was cut short and attendees didnt get to experience the full show. Does a scenario like this open up a more legitimate lawsuit?

Certainly if Madonna shows up three hours late for a show, plays Ray of Light and walks off, and fans are refused a refund, shes not delivering the services that were promised in an obvious and material way. That would almost certainly be actionable. If its a shorter show than usual, it goes into the scope of reasonable expectation. What would a reasonable Madonna fan expect? A reasonable Madonna fan might expect that a show could be a little bit shorter or start late. It becomes a question of when she crosses the threshold into something no reasonable fan would expect.

Heres something a little off-topic but relevant. Madonna has marketed her tour as a celebration and retrospection of her career, and shes played a lot of her classic hits from the 80s. If she never played Holiday or Into the Groove or any of those songs and solely kept to her most recent work, would that be considered fraud?

I dont think it would be fraud. But could fans sue under false advertising or deceptive business practices? That could happen. Music fans are usually on notice that artists play what they want at these shows no matter what  at least thats my experience. If Madonna marketed these concerts like, If you were too young in the 90s to hear Vogue live, this is your chance!, and didnt play it, then I could see that being a case. That would be more egregious than starting late. I mean, that would be a huge bummer.

What these three lawsuits have in common is that theyre from fans. However, I cant help but think about the perspective of the venue service workers, whos time on the clock was also extended. Do you think workers have a stronger case for negligence than attendees, if any of them decided to sue?

I dont think they would have a stronger case. I suspect the venue workers at the Barclays Center are unionized. Their remedy would be through their union and whatever their contract is with the venue. One thing thats rough, at least in New York, is that overtime is attached to nonexempt workers over 40 hours a week, but it doesnt mean working later than expected. That would be covered in your relationship to your employer. Hopefully in the union rules for them, there would be something for additional pay if youre forced to work much later into the night than expected. There might even be something where Madonnas team would have to pay Barclays Center more money for occupying the space and not vacating the space at the time they were supposed to. But direct recourse for the workers against Madonna is harder for me to see.

When Madonna goes up onstage and declares, Theres something that you all need to understand, and that is that a queen is never late, would that be a good defense in court?

She actually said that?

Verbatim.

Cool. Its basically like sovereign immunity. Thats a hot issue. The Supreme Court is about to weigh in on that. Madonna can see what they say.
Were back at Sundance in the Vulture Spot, where were interviewing the casts and creators of the years buzziest films. Check out all our coverage from the film fest here.

Anna Boden and Ryan Flecks Freaky Tales features four interconnected stories that take place in 1987 Oakland, California, and the rich culture that came out of the region during that time. The cast includes Dominique Thorne and Normani (in her feature-film debut), who both had to dabble in the genre of 80s rap for their roles. It was so much fun, especially for me, I feel like I was able to get outside of myself, from what I would traditionally sound like, Normani said. Being able to tap into a whole different era, and just being educated too on the music and the influence that Oakland has. As for Thorne, this was her first time in the studio recording music, but she earned the stamp of approval from Normani: You killed it. You can hear more about the role that subculture has in the film in the video above, along with:

 Jay Ellis talking about getting starstruck by Normani and Dominique Thorne on the first day of filming.

 How Thorne used to battle-rap the boys in her high school.

 Ji-young Yoo on getting to dive into the Bay Areas punk scene.

Freaky Tales also stars Pedro Pascal, Ben Mendelsohn, Angus Cloud, Jack Champion, and Keir Gilchrist. It premiered on January 18 at Sundance.
Were back at Sundance in the Vulture Spot, where were interviewing the casts and creators of the years buzziest films. Check out all our coverage from the film fest here.

It took until the year of our Lord 2024 to get a full-length dive into the life and career of every aunties quiet storm king, the force known as Luther Vandross. It was pretty shocking to me that there was no feature film about him, Luther: Never Too Much director Dawn Porter said. He is the soundtrack to our lives. When she signed on to the film, Vandrosss label, Sony, made available what she calls documentary crack, or the artists liner notes and sketches for his smooth tracks. We know the songs are the soundtracks to our lives, but we dont know how he got there, she told Vulture. Were filling in the parts we didnt know. Wanna hear more about combing through Vandrosss old things? Watch the video above for details, along with stories about:

 David Bowie being self-aware enough to know he couldnt pull off a Vandross track.

 Vandross dialing Dionne Warwick during booty-call hours to talk about  recipes.

 Jamie Foxx slyly playing Vandross music in the background of calls to seduce his girlfriends.

Luther: Never Too Much is directed by Porter and produced by Foxx, Trish D Chetty, Ged Doherty, Datari Turner, and Leah Smith. It premiered at Sundance on January 21.
Photo: DWAYNEKENNEDY via YouTube

The fact that Dwayne Kennedy is not a household name is insanity, Sarah Silverman once said. Having had the privilege of watching Kennedy develop material in person, I have to agree. When I started comedy in the late 90s, Kennedy had returned to Chicago from Los Angeles, where he had landed a guest-star role on Seinfeld but not made the impact he wanted to in stand-up. The Kennedy you see today, who won Best Comedian at the HBO U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in 2002, was the product of this period of reinvention away from the eyes of Hollywood. A generation of Chicago comedians have been shaped by Kennedys example, including Kumail Nanjiani, Pete Holmes, Hannibal Buress, Beth Stelling, Kyle Kinane, and Matt Braunger. In Mike Bridenstines Chicago comedy-history book The Perfect Amount of Wrong, Braunger says that the comics in the scene were all chasing Dwayne Kennedy  He was like Elvis. Kennedy would kill harder than anyone else, according to Bridenstine, with smarter material than anyone else. And that changed all of them, and the way they thought about comedy, permanently.

Comics often present political material like they are leading a rally for their own opinions. They declare their position to the room, then ride the applause of those who agree to a perfunctory punch line, giving up on laughs from any dissenters without even trying. Kennedy does the opposite; he carefully chooses his words so the maximum number of audience members will keep an open mind long enough to laugh. The sets he performed during his reinvention were packed with intelligent, socially provocative material that could still crush with audiences in the tavern-show rooms of George W. Bushera Chicago. While he never pandered, he always aimed to entertain everyone present, regardless of their biases. Even if they werent brought around to Kennedys point of view, they couldnt help but engage with his ideas. There is no better example than his magnificent 2002 debut on The Late Show With David Letterman.

There are countless professional incentives for ones first joke on late-night television not to begin with Ive been reading the Bible, yet Kennedys characterization of its contents as wine and stuff thats hard to believe earns him a five-second applause break for a setup line. This ovation was not inevitable. Kennedy senses it building, and with the confidence and calm of a seasoned veteran, he stays silently in character and lets it happen, building a reservoir of audience goodwill at the top of his set that a lesser comic might have missed out on in a rush to their first punch line. Crucially for Kennedys inclusive approach to divisive material, finding stuff thats hard to believe in the Bible doesnt necessarily alienate anyone. He still has the whole room with him for his first punch line, I think the wine came first.

Improv teachers tell students to play at the top of their intelligence, but this can be difficult advice to heed when success depends on your joke hitting the most possible tables. Kennedy isnt worried, dropping ergo at the 1:05 mark without a care in the world. He trusts his exaggerated faces, energetic act-outs, and eight distinct character voices will impart any meaning the audience might miss from a word or two going over their heads. Kennedys comedy is smart, but its also big.

His wineglass is not just a beverage; its an integral part of the act. He will hold it as if he is about to take a sip, make a point instead, and put it back down, keeping the audience dialed in and slightly on edge. Its also the perfect prop for Kennedys first act-out when he keeps the crowd with him by enacting a universal experience. Whatever you think of biblical literalism, youve probably told a fib while drunk. The audience is still with him when a long sip of his wine signals the piece is complete, earning Kennedy eight seconds of applause.

His next premise requires more information than most. A mini punch line about liking Negros with spirit might feel like something he could have cut, but its critical to the bits success. It earns him enough of a laugh to keep the audience listening for the Swing Low, Sweet Chariot history lesson they need for the first punch line to land. And land it does, earning another ovation on Detroit at the 2:35 mark. Kennedy could have milked it for longer, but his time is limited, and he has much more to get to in the six-minute performance.

The audience applauds Kennedys next setup  a rare occurrence in comedy that happens twice in this set  even though the jokes subject is slavery, the mere mention of which makes some people uncomfortable. Some try to restrict its discussion, and politicians and pundits attempt to downplay its horrors even today for this reason, but laughter is involuntary  it doesnt respect the happy fictions we tell ourselves. The audience laughs because they know Kennedys slave character, Joshua, is going to die. Whatever tales they prefer be told about our countrys past, deep down they know exactly what slavery was, and the guffaws Kennedy elicits prove it.

Kennedys final bit, about the Global War on Terror in progress when this Letterman set was taped, is deceptively subversive. He talks about how the U.S. is at war with an ideology. Left unsaid is that this means the enemy could include anyone the U.S. designates; Kennedy points out how each war is an opportunity to see what new means the U.S. has to wipe you out. The audience cant help but laugh. They know that despite all the reassurances from our government that these weapons are meant only for our enemies, they would be just as efficient at killing us. Kennedy gets an uneasy little laugh and leaves the topic for a brief tangent to lighten the mood before swinging back around to it 46 seconds later.

Do you remember  You probably dont remember  the Revolutionary War? Kennedy asks. Like the earlier Negros with spirit line, this laugh keeps the audience engaged for the extra-long setup required for another ambitious premise about the personal touches of previous wars, like musical accompaniment. Kennedys bohemian jazzman bugler and no-nonsense bass player, both unnerved by their booking in a war zone, feel like something out of a Jay Ward Bullwinkle cartoon and provide a needed infusion of playful energy. But underpinning even these broad laughs is the uncomfortable truth that our culture normalizes war to the extent that we have produced a whole songbook full of time-honored music to kill people to.

Returning to the subject of Americas ever more destructive arsenal, Kennedy plays on the audiences fear. The intelligent weapons he describes are looking not for our enemies, but for your house. Kennedy personifies both the swaggery smart bomb and the terrified kid. Have any of you kids seen Dwayne? the missile asks. The targets of this war on an ideology have apparently expanded to include comedians with dreadlocks who talk about slavery on CBS. When the frightened child rats Kennedy out, the bomb responds with a banal Stay in school, emphasizing how thoroughly Bush-era America equated good citizenry with militarism.

No matter what one might profess in public, contemplating the raw destructive power that exists in the world is never reassuring. Like the little boy who points out Kennedys house to the missile, we often feel the best we can hope for is that that power is pointed at someone else. This insight into the anxieties of 21st-century life earns Kennedy ten seconds of applause and his Letterman debut a place among the most successful performances of controversial stand-up material in television history.
Tonight was a dull but educational episode that touched on many pertinent social issues, ending with Dr. Jackie enlisting the women to film a public service announcement about Black maternal mortality. Though obviously nowhere as necessary as raising awareness about health-care disparities, if I were to make a PSA of my own relating to this episode, I would use my experience recapping the last two seasons of The Real Housewives of Atlanta to discuss the dangers of eliminating strong personalities on reality TV casts without a foolproof plan to compensate for their absence.

Covering RHOAs fall from grace has made me an expert in chronicling a show thats digging its own grave; I am hyperaware of the signs and symptoms associated with losing a superstar presence. First, the divas absence is so loud its deafening; even without physically filming, their existence remains a main character, a source of both conversation and conflict. Then, as the show progresses into new story lines and the rest of the cast tries to carry on without their key player, almost like a phantom limb, the audience feels a constant twinge that something is missing. Married to Medicine is in the phantom-limb phase.

This show had a once-in-a-lifetime, written-in-the-stars core ensemble that was responsible for creating the shows reputation as Bravos most popular sleeper hit. So my question is this: Whatever happened to if it aint broke, dont fix it? Why couldnt Quad have merely been banished from the rest of the Napa trip as punishment, with the women trying to pick up the pieces once they return to Atlanta? I would love a one-on-one sit-down with Toya and Quad, an emotionally charged reconciliation with Heavenly, or even solo scenes of Quad being delusional and shady with her other friends. Im spitballing here, but Im trying to say that I believe Quad is currently integral to the casts formula, and eliminating her was a wrong move, as proven by the last two episodes. I understand the ladies might be fed up with her antics, but we have a show to make here, people! Be fed up with her on-camera!

Its evident by Quads imminent return, as hinted in the mid-season trailer, and the fact that no one bothered to remove her from the opening credits that the producers agree shes needed for the show. But until she comes back or someone decides to wake up and clock in (looking at you, Phaedra), we have to truck through the women trying to prove they can hold it together without her. Excuse my weeks-long ruminations about the ousting of Quad, but the issue becomes more apparent the longer shes gone, with the meat of the story lines being so boring and redundant that my mind cant help but drift. Theres a lull in the energy as theres not much happening interpersonally between the ladies, and their solo story lines arent captivating enough to carry this many episodes. Weve seen enough of Miles and Michaels new apartment (and their condoms), weve listened to Toya complain about Eugene ad nauseam, and weve sat through one too many boys nights revolving around talking about gender roles.

Without personal drama, production and the cast lean on the medicine aspect of the shows premise in tonights episode, as the majority of the scenes take place at a doctors appointment of some type, whether it be at work with the doctors, during the Harris boys orthodontics consultation, or the Luncefords discussing Teas fibroids with a specialist. The resident doctors each tackle a social issue during their solo scenes: Jackie sticks to her fatphobia by prescribing someone semaglutide; Dr. Simone speaks to a patient about the possibility of crossing state lines for an abortion; and Heavenly treats TS Madison, a proud Black trans woman who helped the dentist open up her eyes to the discrimination trans individuals face. TS Madison, the TS standing literally for transexual, is a reality TV personality who bumps shoulders with many Atlanta socialites and trusts only Heavenly with her pearly whites.

During their session, Heavenly admits to being ignorant about trans culture before befriending TS Madison, who, at first, Heavenly thought was cis-gendered. At the appointment, TS Madison discusses her anger toward people of her own race  the same people who know discrimination the most intimately  for having transphobic tendencies. She breaks down how being trans is a part of her identity before stating that people are often afraid of what they dont understand. My favorite part is when TS Madison debunks the dangerous, conservative belief that exposing young children to queerness in media will magically turn them queer. She says that, as a 45-year-old, she grew up with no trans representation yet still knew she was trans. I applaud Heavenly for not only being open about needing to educate herself but for using her platform as a way to spread the knowledge she learned.

Next, Dr. Jackie reminds us of her crusade against fatness as she prescribes her patient Chika semaglutide while nearly foaming at the mouth as she reads aloud her weight and BMI. Unless youve been living under a rock, Im assuming you know what Ozempic is, and semaglutide is just the generic name for Ozempic. So, of course, Jackie is peddling it to the patients she believes are too fat. I phrase it that way because, although I doubt Jackie would ever admit it, the numbers that shes using to determine her patients health in relation to their weight have been proven to be highly racialized. Over the summer, the American Medical Association finally admitted that the entire concept of a BMI is inherently racist, with roots leading back to eugenics. People outside of the white race were not considered by Ancel Keys when creating the BMI system, and the exemplar of healthiness was subjective to Keyss biases (which the AMA describes as his preference for white aesthetic priorities), not concrete scientific evidence. The AMA article says that Keys described obesity as being ethically repugnant and disgusting, which sounds a lot like something Dr. Jackie would say behind closed doors (just look at her face after Chika said she overeats) when shes not complaining about her patients anxieties over their pregnancy.

I know Chika did have alarmingly high cholesterol, but I would like to know what semaglutide has to do with obstetrics and gynecology and why an OB/GYN would be prescribing it, not a primary care physician. Simone is also putting her patients on semaglutide, as we see during her appointment with Rasheeda, who lost around 20 pounds while on the drug after Simone called her chubby. Rasheeda and Simone meet to discuss how her use of semaglutide factors into her desire to get pregnant, as she cannot be on the drug while trying to conceive. Since Rasheeda has already discontinued semaglutide, Simone moves on to other factors that could make pregnancy difficult. Due to Rasheedas age, there are chances of chromosomal abnormalities, which, unfortunately, opens the door to discussing the possibility of wanting to terminate the pregnancy. Since Georgia abides by the Heartbeat Bill, after the fetus develops a heartbeat, the mother no longer has autonomy over their body and cannot legally have an abortion in the state. Thankfully, Rasheeda has had these conversations with her spouse and is prepared to cross state lines if she chooses to make that decision.

The end of the episode bounces back and forth between the women filming Dr. Jackies Black maternal-mortality PSA and guys night with the husbands, where Kema, Dr. Alicias husband, decides to unleash all his pent-up misogynistic ideas about American women. The juxtaposition is jarring  somehow, we manage to take three steps forward with Simone calling out the archaic abortion laws in this country and the women highlighting health-care disparities, and three steps back with Kema aggressively proclaiming that women have too much power in America. Sure, we still statistically get paid less and sexually assaulted more than men, and even fetuses without any kind of gender or consciousness are considered before our well-being. And thats before factoring in the intersectionality of being a Black American and a woman, but I guess weve taken things too far by wanting to have a say in our marriages.

Kema goes on and on about being castrated by having to treat women as human beings and not entities to control while the other men look on, probably making mental bets on how long his marriage will last. He compares American women to women in his home country, saying that in Nigeria, if your woman is not listening to you, it makes you look like a weak man. He says its time for men to take back control, which is a thinly veiled way of telling us to get back in our places. Eugene, the great man that he is, states the obvious about how women are still discriminated against and left at a disadvantage. Kema annoyingly puffs his cigar and proclaims men dont have a voice and everyone cant lead together. All I know is that Id like to be led out of this conversation so were no longer subjected to the very loud voice this man claims not to have.

Doctors Orders

 Phaedra was barely in this episode, which is fine because her skills are being put to use on The Traitors, where Shady Phae Phae is unquestionably killing it. Sheree, a.k.a. She by Shes Happy to Have a Job, also cracks me up while looking lost and confused. No comment on Larsa Pippen-Jordan-Kardashian.

 Sorry to make this about myself, but I had the pleasure of writing this recap on my birthday, so I feel sentimental. Though I usually make it a rule to do zero work on my day, I dont view this as work at all. In fact, bringing this show to Vulture was the highlight of my 28th year on this planet, and I am honored to go into my 29th writing about it. Thank you to everyone reading and my editors for supporting me; its the best birthday present I could ask for.
Friends, Romans, and countrymen, lend me your ears: Candiace Dillard Bassett is a woman in a reality crisis. She is visibly watching herself be iced out of the cast, and her petite frame is swimming like hell to fight the tide. Housewives storylines generally follow a standard arc: conflict A, drama, resolution, onto conflict B. But Candiace has been unable to escape the quicksand of last season, still fighting the battles of her grudges on the show and on social media. Even Wendy has something new to latch on to: As irritating as I find the Nneka drama, it allows her to move past discussing last seasons tensions with Mia and Robyn. For Candiace, however, everything reverts to needing to be heard for how she feels about last season, and she continues to run into walls at every turn, which only makes her stamp her feet louder as she continues to be dismissed

After nine episodes of Deep Space: On Tour, we finally land an episode where Candiace is steering the ship, with a Mothers Day brunch event alongside Parfums de Marly. Its a well-conceived event  lovely location, perfume bar, musical ambiance  but the drama is all about the guest list. With Candiace wielding power, Gizelle is now excluded, but she is still trying to stitch together a semblance of a relationship with Robyn, who politely declined but finally agreed to a long-overdue one-on-one for the duo to air their grievances.

The division within the ensemble is a shame because the brunch would have made for a top-notch all-cast event. As it stood, there was plenty of fodder already, especially with the help of some of the girls mothers. For one, Mia and Karen have developed to in-person hugs, which is huge growth in their relationship; the grand dame cannot say the same for Charrisse, who triggers a slow-moving eye-twitch whenever they are within 25 yards of each other. Ashley sheepishly admits that her divorce is merely awaiting her signature, and her family is pressuring her to file the papers; Charrisse, who showed up with her daughter Skylar, aptly pointed out that she is likely still slow walking a transition to a new financial lifestyle.

Despite not being on the show this season, Jacqueline remains a topic of discussion for the second episode in a row. While Mia and Jacqueline have not spoken for almost a year, she has kept in touch with some of the other girls, including Charrisse. Charrisse tells Mia that she spoke to Jacqueline, and Jacqueline cried; she also reveals that Nneka joined in later, and Jacqueline apparently spoke poorly of Mia to Nneka. Both Charrisse and Nneka framed that unfavorably, but considering the terms that Mia and Jacqueline left things on, it is not a surprise that Jacqueline would not have good things to say, and the things that Nneka said in her confessional that were revealed to her about Mias behavior, if anything, sounded like a warning to Nneka not to get too close to a castmate who would publicly embarrass her oldest and best friend on a national platform. It is up to Nneka to choose whether or not to heed that advice and move judiciously.

Wendy and her mother were smartly nowhere to be found; if you have to gamble on a mother known for theatrics in a group scene with an antagonist, opt for the pre-planned book event. Wendys reduced presence allows us to get to know Nneka more organically: We meet her sister, Njideka, and get genuine insight into their family dynamic as high-performing daughters of a first-generation immigrant family that won the lottery alongside their hard work and succeeded in the American dream. Seeing the inside jokes that roll off their tongue and the natural banter they have among each other is a much more refreshing side of Nneka that still allows us to understand the pressure that she feels shes under, with a highly accomplished sister who has proverbially accomplished it all: the career, husband, income, and family to boot. Hopefully they continue to build out these parts of her so we continue to understand Nneka more and invest more in her journey instead of just viewing her as an oppositional force to Wendy.

While Gizelle may not have been at the Mothers Day brunch, she does manage to lock in some mother-daughter time in a joint brunch with Karen and her daughter Rayvin (I loved her jacket in that scene; was it Diesel?). It is lovely to see Gizelle and Karen return to their early seasons banter  even revisiting old quarrels over Jack & Jill cookie competitions  as their next generation offers each other counsel as Grace prepares to transition to college. While I critique Gizelle for using the family scenes to hide out when she is in the hot seat, it can be mixed in well with banter and narrative building when appropriately executed, and these two daughters are very well aware of the fabulous diva moms who have raised them. They can talk about navigating social lives and dating in front of their mom and even get discreet matching tattoos together. Karen, of course, believes that she is prepared for the pain of repeated injections because of her usual Botox and filler routine.

We finally have the tete-a-tete between Candiace and Robyn, and the nuances in the discussion show exactly why, despite Candiaces valid frustrations, she is stuck in a story-line roadblock. Robyn is no longer interested in being friends; Candiace is not interested in acknowledging that she did anything out of bounds as a friend. There is simply nowhere for them to go. Whether or not Candiace is correct in principle in saying that she was stating her opinion as others state their opinions publicly, the fact is that she live tweets and goes to the blogs in a way that the others do not. Candiace was furious at the situation, and she should own that and not insist that she didnt mean to offend Robyn. What Robyn is pointing out, without saying it directly, is that Candiace publicly implied  outside of the greater conspiracy of it all  that she was not doing her job, which is coming for her paycheck as the primary breadwinner.

Robyn is bold for claiming she would do the same thing again, considering that Juan continues to humiliate her. Simply put, if she wants to protect her marriage, which is her God-given right, she must leave the show. But Candiace is not why Andy and Bravo production demanded that you account for the story you put behind a paywall and freely admitted that you (1) saw coming and (2) expected a cast member to bring up for you. Its a frustrating refrain for her to keep repeating, and Candiace can rightfully exploit the hypocrisy in that. Still, she is trapped in a cycle of emotional immaturity that makes even the most standard conversation trying. She quickly starts ramping up into a vent about how Robyn associates with awful people (read: Gizelle), and she has a right to express how that makes her feel; you can almost see her begin to hyperventilate over her visceral reaction to losing control over the situation and her emotions. Its tragic and sad to watch, and despite my thinking that Candiace is not completely invalid in her feelings, theres just nowhere for her to go. Robyn is right: If this is how Candiace feels, then she shouldnt be interested in maintaining a friendship, and theres nothing more for them to discuss or try to salvage. Next week, we are taking ourselves to Surry County. See you then!

Cherry Blossoms

 This Wendy YouTube talk-show story arc is all over the place. Plus, last I checked, the show went on a hiatus around the holidays and has yet to return after filming six episodes. I wish the best for her, but she really needs to focus on one or three things instead of being in the business of everything.

 Karen telling the CCO of Parfums de Marly that they were in the same family because they both sold at Bloomingdales and then continuing to shill her products at the event made me choke on my green juice.

 Was Juan faking sleep to get out of a basic conversation with his wife, or did he actually fall asleep during that massage? I dont care either way, but its quite sad that they do not seem to be on the same page.
Between Monica on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and Big Barry in Saltburn, the past few months have not been short on obsessive people infiltrating the upper class with lies. But now theyre all put on notice, because the OG (well, if you dont count Brideshead Revisited) is back. Ripley, a new miniseries adaptation of Patricia Highsmiths Tom Ripley series, which includes The Talented Mr. Ripley, is heading to Netflix on April 4. Andrew Scott stars in the titular role, and if we dont see him in neon-green swim briefs by the time the series is over, then what was this was all for? Although, that might prove difficult, because, based on the trailer, the series appears to be in black and white.

The trailer looks like a Criterion film noir collection highlight reel, what with the high contrast monochromatic palette and moody puddles reflecting the mean streets of New York. All the while Scott does crimes, ranging from grift to murder. Even more interesting is the teaser from last month, which attempts to break the RPH (Ripleys Per Minute) world record. And with the final count, including written Ripleys, reaching six in just 50 seconds, quick math reveals that the total is 7.2 RPM. Not bad! Written and directed by Steven Zaillian (Schindlers List, The Night Of), the series is set in 60s Italy and New York starring Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf and Dakota Fanning as Marge Sherwood. If this doesnt get the fanfic going with the renewed determination, we dont know what will.

This post has been updated.
This weeks episode of Night Country is as information-dense an hour of TV as Ive ever seen, and its tempting to jump straight into logging the evidence (evidence that points in so many directions that police are still unsure a crime has definitely been committed against the researchers at Tsalal Station).

But Night Countrys second chapter is just as much about establishing the series thematic fault lines as it is about the scattered search for leads. Theres Liz, the small-town police chief, versus Connelly, the captain who wants big-city cops in Anchorage to take over the case from here. There are the resentful miners whose labor props up Ennis versus the hard-done-by townsfolk, mostly Inupiat, who live so close to the mines runoff that their tap water runs black. And, with chilling insistence, theres the vanishing line between the living and the dead.

As Rose sagely explains, the relationship between those past and present is more fraught north of the Arctic Circle, where the living have come to occupy the dark hours normally reserved for the dead. Are all these ghosts real? As Liz might say, thats the wrong question. The right question is, Why are ghosts appearing? Rose tells Navarro there are only three possibilities: Sometimes the dead miss the living, sometimes the dead need something, and sometimes the dead just want to take you with them. Doubting your ghosts is a mistaken line of inquiry; the key is to decipher your ghost, as Rose did when she followed her dead lover to the Tsalal scientists. Maybe Travis knew where to find them because he died on the same ice plain, taking his own life rather than waiting for an end hastened by cancer.

Julia claims to see the dead, too; she sees her mother calling for her across that invisible line. Rose warns Evangeline not to confuse mental illness with the spirit world, but Evangeline sees their mother, too. When she searches the floor of her car with her hand, she finds the cross pendant her mother used to wear on a long gold chain. Has it been sitting there stuck between the cushions for years, or can ghosts leave clues behind, just like criminals? Liz would disdain the notion, and yet that character may turn out to be the most haunted. As she sorts through tangled Christmas decorations, the same grimy, one-eyed stuffed polar bear from episode one finds its way back into her hands, prompting memories of a younger Liz playing peekaboo with a boy who looks like he could be Leahs half-brother. Theyre listening to Twist and Shout, the same song Liz couldnt bear to hear when she first stepped into Tsalal. Theres the foreboding sense that the root cause of Lizs irritability isnt rottenness but grief. When she mistreats her stepdaughter, when she forces Pete to spend another evening at work away from his family, when she pushes Navarro away from a case that clearly means so much to her, Liz isnt putting more misery in the world but unburdening herself  however unjustifiably  of her own share.

When the episode opens, police havent made much progress separating the scientists from the tundra. Theyre dusting snow from the bodies with paintbrushes like theyre uncovering prehistoric fossils and not human beings whose faces are still stained red with blood. While Pete and Liz catalogue their peculiar injuries  ruptured eardrums, burnt corneas, eyes scratched out, fingers bitten off  the wider cast of Ennis PD hooligans take distasteful selfies among the dead, corroborating Connellys suspicions that the local police arent up to the task of solving this crime without creating a PR nightmare. Only on Night Country could a cop accidentally breaking off a victims frozen forearm feel like comic relief.

And really, I should say they were taking selfies among the almost-dead. Dr. Lund, who was in charge at Tsalal, starts to scream from the gelid morass, his mouth black as tar. Later, we learn hes in an induced coma, about to have surgery to amputate a leg. If there was a crime committed on the ice that night, Lund might be the only witness. Meanwhile, Evangeline is forced to watch proceedings from the sidelines, where she discovers the mens clothes arranged in carefully folded piles, as if theyd be coming back for them.

Now, there are physical challenges to transporting a group of seven men frozen into a pyramid. Even if Connelly  who, depending on who you ask, either banished Liz to Enniss backwaters or promoted her to police chief of a uniquely demanding jurisdiction  wants to take the case to Anchorage, forensic guidelines require the bodies to be thawed first to preserve physical evidence. Its Pete who has the idea to move them on a trailer bed and Liz who dreams up the perfect-size fridge: the towns ice rink. Its low-key one of the most fucked up tableaus Ive seen on TV: five heads and nine legs protruding from a very slowly disappearing block of ice in a morgue with stadium seating. Imagine the crawling sinners of Van Eycks Last Judgment if the painting were turned upside down like, well, a snow globe.

To get access to the rink, Liz has to ask the permission of Kate McKitterick, a senior exec at the mining company, which happens to own the rink and, its implied, most of central Ennis. Its an awkward ask because Liz slept with Kates husband back when he was still Kates husband. In fact, one effective way to organize this review would be according to Lizs body count. When she wants to understand what the reclusive Tsalal scientists were up to  they were trying to save lives by harvesting DNA from ancient microorganisms that have been preserved on ice for millions of years  she visits Adam, the high-school geology teacher she used to fuck. To keep the case in-house, she squares off against Connelly, a guy shes been sleeping with sporadically for almost 20 years, throughout both of their marriages, including when Liz and Leahs dad, Jake, were on breaks. The faces Connelly makes when they screw in his motel room this week are bound to cause more nightmares than the pile of deads; instead of postcoital sweet nothings, Liz and her boss exchange threats and recriminations about what will happen if the Ennis PD botches the case.

In between assignations, Liz compiles, with the help of Pete and Navarro, a comprehensive and confusing list of things she knows about the men who worked at Tsalal and what happened the night they were  murdered? Walked onto the ice? What exactly did happen to those men?

We know that Lund was found with a spiral symbol on his forehead. Rose tells Navarro the symbol is older than Ennis, but Navarro has seen it before: tattooed onto the skin of Annie K.

Early forensic testing proves a bust. The team recovers one full handprint on one of the mens boots, but it has no matches in the database, and even if it did, its a long walk from being guilty of touching a mans shoe to proving that person chased a man and his naked colleagues into an Arctic desert. Similarly, digging into Tsalals financials produces inconclusive results. The lab is funded by an NGO that can be traced back to a shell company that belongs to an international conglomerate with diverse interests such as harvesting palm oil and manufacturing speedboats.

Few people in town have interacted much with the station, but Liz interviews the bimonthly cleaning crew, mostly Inupiat women  including the women involved in the domestic dispute at the crab-processing plant Navarro was called in to control in the pilot. Like Adam, who calls the scientists mad men, the women dont paint a flattering portrait. Lund was testy and obsessive; he never spoke to the women except to correct their work. One lady remembers Clark as a loner, crying in his room while the others ignored him. None report seeing Annie or her tattoo  reminiscent of the spirals in previous series of True Detective  at the station.

Pete fares a little better with the supply guy, who was the first to discover Tsalal was abandoned. They were all weirdos, but lately Clark had grown extra weird, walking around naked and talking to himself. The supply guy has seen the spiral symbol before, in the form of a tattoo on Clarks chest.

Clarks credit card records lead Liz to call a Fairbanks tattoo parlor. She learns Clark cried when he got the tattoo a few days after Annies death. She learns the reference photo he brought with him to the shop was a photo of him hugging a half-naked Annie in the mirror. This is the kind of police work Liz prefers: methodical, Socratic. Ask the right questions  not why did Raymond get the spiral tattoo but when  and the answers link up like falling dominoes.

Pete, too, gets a chance to make his mark on the case file, even if impressing Liz is costing him with his family. Kayla is irate that her husband would break a bedtime promise to Darwin to babysit the corpsicle, and Hank swings by the ice rink to deck Pete when he discovers that his son jacked Annies records from his den. Blood is blood. Pete may be a disloyal son and a rookie cop, but hes also got that Gen-Z savvy. Hes the one to hold an iPhone with face recognition enabled up to one of the thawing bodies to discover the video of a guy vlogging the construction of his sandwich until Clark wanders into the frame, shivering before he declares, Shes awake. Exhibit A.

Undeterred by Lizs hostility, Navarro keeps digging into her cold-case file. Annies brother doesnt recognize the photo of Raymond Clark she brings around to Qaaviks bar, but one of his buddies from the mine does. Chuck, who has a poster for the K-pop band Ive on his wall, later tells Navarro that Clark bought an old trailer off his cousin years ago. A reluctant disciple, Navarro shares Lizs belief that good policework is a matter of posing the right questions, and yet she knows theres more to whats happening in Ennis. Rose seemed implausibly and frustratingly mystic to me in this episode, but Navarro seems to take every morsel of her supernatural wisdom onboard, so much so that she asks Julia to reconsider visiting the local mental-health center  a place Julias sworn off after a previous bad experience being overmedicated by doctors. Navarro may throw her mothers crucifix out the window of her moving car, but she knows you cant outrun the dead. Its why she cant give up the search for Annies killer either.

After seeing the photo of the mad Irish scientist and his local protester girlfriend cuddling in the mirror, Liz can no longer deny the connection between whatever happened at Tsalal and Annies unsolved murder. She drives out to Navarros cabin and confesses that the tongue they found at the station was, of course, Annies tongue. But the most interesting thing Liz says as she unpacks Navarros groceries and invites her aboard the investigation is, Did you change where you put the cans? Theres a world of history between these women  an intimacy that was previously hinted at only by the force of their antipathy. Liz and Evangeline didnt just work together. They were friends. Liz is capable of friendship. And man, could she use an ally right now.

Her other body count, as it stands by the end of episode two: Hank despises her. So do Kate and Adam. Connelly doubts her. Leah  whose wild teenage rebellion has been to draw a washable Inuit tattoo (kakiniit) on her face and to run afoul of her girlfriends mother  cant stand her stepmoms guts. At work, Liz may be cool and calculated, but with Leah, shes always asking the most wrongheaded version of the question. Instead of wondering why her daughter is hanging out with someone elses grandmother for companionship, she assumes Leahs out to make her life difficult. It should go without saying that Kayla and Kaylas kindly grandmother hate Liz, particularly after she goes ballistic on them for letting Leah play with Magic Markers. Pete doesnt hate Liz, but its easy to imagine it heading in that direction.

And yet, Liz still holds Navarro at arms length, refusing to get into the Wheeler thing, whatever that is, when Navarro seems poised to make amends. For all their shared toughness, though, Navarro can still be astonishingly gentle. She takes her little sister shopping and sends her a voice note when Wannabe comes on the radio. Rose seems to have adopted her as a lost daughter. And with Qaavik, whose affection for Evangeline only gets more endearing this week, we see she can be teasing and playful. She lets her guard down with Qaavik just a little. She lets him get to know her a bit, which means getting to know Annies case. Lonely Liz sits at home staring at notebooks of Raymond Clarks deranged scribbles, taken from his room at Tsalal, while a nice man makes Evangeline Navarro pancakes and bounces ideas around with her. Why do you hide a romance? No. How do you hide a romance?

In a deserted-looking RV park called the Nook, Navarro finds the trailer Clark bought off Chucks cousin, and its like shes stepped directly into his cluttered mind. There are doodles and scratches on the cabinets, the same as in his notebooks, but the trailer is also crammed with animal bones and hanging dolls. Annies phone is there, alongside a makeshift, life-size stuffed mannequin wearing Annies clothes. The spiral motif that adorned Annies back and Clarks chest is drawn into the ceiling. Is this place an altar? Is it a crime scene? What drove Clark so insane? No, wrong question. What was this insane man capable of?

No, wrong again, it seems. The question isnt what was he capable of, but what is he capable of. Navarro, Pete, and Liz reconvene at the rink, where the block of ice has thawed sufficiently to reveal Raymond Clarks body isnt among the dead scientists. Hes still out there, somewhere, on the same ice he devoted his life to digging up. A case of eight missing persons that may also be a murder has now become a manhunt set against the disorienting polar night. I keep having to remind myself that even though it looks like zero dark thirty outside, every scene could just as easily be taking place at 9 a.m. or noon. When Liz and Navarro learn Clark is alive, it could be the tail end of a very long day or the daybreak of the next long night.

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Tracing the origins and history of Rome's carnival.

The first certain traces of Rome's carnival celebrations - which begin this year on Sunday 28 January - date back to the 12th century.

The ludus carnevalarii saw the attendance of the pope since 1143, with events based in the fields below Monte dei Cocci in Testaccio.

Festivities included duels and bullfights, attended by noble families as well as ordinary citizens of Rome, keen to witness the wild events as well as take advantage of the meat from the slain animals.

Rome's carnevale festivities were later moved into the city centre to venues such as S. Pietro, Piazza Farnese and - in particular - Piazza Navona.

However it was with the arrival of the flamboyant Pope Paul II in 1464 - and his move to live at Palazzo S. Marco near Piazza Venezia - that Rome's carnival really took off.

Festivities were based in the centre with races being held along Via Lata - today Via del Corso - with categories including children, elderly, donkeys and buffaloes, all competing for handsome prize money.

Over the centuries the carnival had its ups and downs, all depending on the scruples of the reigning pope: some pontiffs allowed Romans to revel in excess, others repressed the festivities.

Pope Alexander VI Borgia, who enjoyed Carnevale immensely, established a special race for prostitutes in 1501.

Berber horse race

Two Carnevale events were particularly popular: the inaugural parade and the race of the Berber horses, both based in Piazza del Popolo and along Via del Corso.

In the days preceding these events noble families would display their splendid carriages, throwing flowers and sugared almonds to the assembled crowds.

The pope attended the inaugural parade, in a pomp-filled procession designed to show his power.

However the most anticipated event of the Carnevale Romano was the race of the Berber horses, a wild and dangerous spectacle along Via del Corso, where crowds celebrated with colourful masks and extravagant fireworks displays.

The Berber horse race was abolished in 1874 by King Victor Emmanuel II due to the death of a spectator, resulting in Rome's carnival celebrations falling into oblivion for over a century, until their revival in recent years.

When is Carnival 2024?

This year's carnevale season begins officially on Sunday 28 January and will continue until Tuesday 13 February.

During this time it is common to see children in Rome dressed up in fancy costumes and throwing colourful confetti, with bakery windows full of special carnival treats such as frappe and castagnole.

Key dates on the carnevale calendar are 8 February (Giovedi Grasso), 11 February (domenica di Carnevale) and 13 February (Martedi Grasso).

Traditionally carnival is the period of fun and festivities preceding the 40 days of fasting and prayer that Christians observe during Lent, which begins this year on 14 February, with Ash Wednesday.
Rome has more than 900 churches which makes it the city with the largest number of churches inside it.

Although the majority of the churches are Roman Catholic, there is a significant number of other denominational ones. Santa Maria in Aracoeli is a titular Basillica in the heart of the City.

Thousands of tourists visit year round to admire the history and beauty of the Gothic architecture, to see the Santo Bambino of Aracoeli, and to climb up the monumental stairway of 124 steps oustide one of Romes most cherished churches.

History

Located at the highest point of the Capitoline Hill, Santa Maria is the designated Church of the City Council of Rome with a long history. It was built during the sixth century on the site of an ancient Byzantine Abbey. By the ninth century it was first given to the Benedictines and then later by papal bull to the Franciscans in the early thirteenth century.

The Franciscans are known to have influenced the Romanesque-Gothic aspect of this church. It was made titular in 1517, which means it is a church in Rome assigned to a specific Cardinal priest. The present Cardinal Priest of the Titulus Santa Maria is Salvatore De Giorgi.

Interior

The architectural style of Santa Maria is Romanesque, Gothic. Tourists may see the famous Gothic stained-glass window from the bottom of the stairs outside the church. The church contains three naves, divided by twenty-two Roman columns. All of the columns were taken from different antique monuments and Roman ruins.

As you glance up youll see the beautiful wooden ceiling full of intricate paintings representing the famous Battle of Lepanto in 1571. Surrounded by exquisite paintings created by well-known artists and the famous relics of Saint Helena there is history all throughout the church.

Santo Bambino of Aracoeli

Millions of tourists and local visit to see the Santo Bambino of Aracoeli, which is a wooden image of the Christ Child beleived to ressurect the dead. It is hte most famous object in the church.

The wooden statue was made out of olive wood during the fifteenth century. The jewel encrusted object was stolen in 1994 and never found, so a replica is currently used instead.

Stairway to Heaven

The Aracoeli staircase was finished in 1348 to thank the Virgin Mary for the end of the Black Death in Rome, which was a large plague epidemic that killed millions of people. There are 124 marble steps that lead up to the Altar of Heaven which is why its often called Stairway to Heaven.

Back in the day people believed if you climbed up all of the stairs on your knees your sins would be forgiven. Woomen who wanted a child or a husband also went up the stairs on their knees.

Riconoscimento editoriale: TTstudio / Shutterstock.com
CAIRO  For days now, the Egyptian government has stated that a Taiwanese American woman was the source of the coronavirus infections of 45 passengers and crew members aboard a Nile cruise ship, suggesting that Egypt was a victim of the global spread of the epidemic. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight On Sunday, Taiwan disputed that assertion. After isolating the strain of the virus from the woman, known as Case #39, Taiwanese researchers concluded that it was different from those of other infected Taiwanese, the islands Centers for Disease Control said in a statement. In other words, she was not the origin of the infection on that ship.

It is determined that Case #39 contracted the novel coronavirus in Egypt, and developed symptoms after returning to Taiwan and that this is an imported case, the statement read.

Egyptian officials said they based their conclusion about the woman on discussions with World Health Organization officials. Nevertheless, the dispute underscores questions about the spread of the virus in Egypt  the Arab worlds most populous nation, with more than 100 million people  and the way the government is handling the threat.

As the virus travels worldwide, Egyptians have expressed concern about a lack of transparency from the government and wonder whether it is concealing the true extent of the viruss spread in the nation. Unlike many other countries in the region, and across the world, Egypt has not closed schools, paused Friday prayers or suspended sporting events to limit the transmission of the virus. It was only on Monday night that the government decided to ban large public gatherings.

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The fears have heightened since Friday, when the number of coronavirus infections jumped from three to 55, including those Nile cruise cases. Dozens of foreigners, including more than two dozen Americans, remain quarantined aboard the ship in the southern city of Luxor. A German tourist who traveled from Luxor to the Red Sea town of Hurghada died Sunday from complications brought on by the virus, becoming Egypts first coronavirus fatality.

As many as 28 people from Canada, France, Greece and the United States have contracted the virus after visiting Egypt in recent weeks.

Egyptian officials say they have been transparent, noting that the government has created a website to inform the public of its efforts and has tested more than 2,000 people who have come in contact with infected people.

But only over the weekend did the government increase its efforts  after the Nile cruise infections emerged.

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On Monday, the first measures were taken in one city: Tourism officials announced that all hot-air balloon rides in Luxor would be halted, in an apparent effort to prevent people from being squeezed together.

They also said that they would improve sanitation at all hotels in Luxor and on cruise ships, as well as test passengers and crew members before they depart their ships. Authorities have canceled the Luxor African Cinema Festival.

Yet all the famous sites in the city  including the Valley of the Kings, as well as the Luxor and Karnak temples  remain open, even though they are normally crowded with thousands of tourists, according to visitors there.

The feedback I get from my patients shows that there is a state of fear and skepticism among the public when it comes to fully trusting official statements regarding the coronavirus in Egypt, said Mohamed Ashraf, 33, an orthopedic specialist. Some of the patients I have seen suspect that the cases are much more than those the government has announced.

The government can largely blame itself for the publics skepticism. Under President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi, information is closely controlled and truth is manipulated, even sacrificed, if it damages the countrys image or all-important economic engine.

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When a bomb brought down a Russian passenger plane departing the Red Sea resort town of Sharm el-Sheik in 2015, killing all 224 people aboard, the government initially denied that terrorists were responsible, even as Western intelligence agencies corroborated the Islamic States claim of responsibility.

The following year, Egypt blamed a bomb when an EgyptAir plane traveling from Paris crashed into the Mediterranean Sea, killing all 66 people aboard, and obstructed the official probe. But French investigators determined that technical failures brought down the plane.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, other countries in the region have grown worried about Egypt because of its dependence on tourism. Millions of Egyptians work in neighboring nations and in the Persian Gulf region, traveling back and forth. In recent days, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia have placed restrictions on visitors from Egypt. Saudi Arabia requires that Egyptian workers entering the kingdom have a certificate from Egypt showing they had tested negative for the coronavirus.

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Under pressure, the Egyptian government on Monday night announced the cancellation of all large public events, including opera performances, as well as restrictions on the movement of large groups of people between provinces.

For ordinary Egyptians, such measures, while welcome, have come late.

I did not see any awareness campaigns on TV on how people should deal with the virus, said Amani Moussa, 28, a painter. I was buying something from the market yesterday, and the seller was using his teeth to actually hold the bag in which he collected my vegetables. So people are not careful.

Ashraf, the orthopedic specialist, said that most people are truly upset that the schools have not been suspended yet, because they see other countries have done so.

But what he is most concerned about are the crumbling government facilities. The vast majority of them, he said, lack good ventilation systems, and these places could turn into a ticking bomb if the virus spreads.

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CAIRO  Egypts parliament overwhelmingly voted on Thursday to ensure that President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi remains in office until as late as 2034, long past a constitutional term limit, while delivering him broad powers that will deepen his control over the Arabs worlds most populous nation Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Parliament Speaker Ali Abdelaal said 485 lawmakers in the 596-seat assembly  or more than the two-thirds majority needed for approval  voted in favor of the proposed constitutional amendments. The proposed changes are now headed for a review in a parliamentary committee and then will return for a second vote in the assembly.

If that passes, the proposed changes will face a national referendum by the summer.

The passage of the amendments came despite outrage by critics who feared that the measures will give unprecedented dictatorial powers to Sissi, whose term is supposed to end in 2022. The proposed amendments would extend the presidential term from four to six years while allowing Sissi to run for two additional terms. Many pro-democracy activists and critics fear that Sissi will now be able to remain president almost indefinitely. Even though weeks of discussions will take place before Sissi's path to remain in power is cleared, few expect the vast majority of lawmakers beholden to the Sissi regime to work against him.

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"We know it is a done deal already," said Mohamed Zaree, director of the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies. "This is how Members of parliament pay back to the security apparatus that brought them to power."

The vote comes little more than eight years after the Arab Spring revolts here ousted President Hosni Mubarak, ending his three decades of autocratic rule. Since Sissi led the 2013 military overthrow of democratically elected Islamist President Mohamed Morsi and was elected the following year, the former armed forces commander has jailed tens of thousands of opponents and blocked hundreds of websites deemed critical of his regime.

President Trump met with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi on Sept. 24, saying their countries' relationship has "never been stronger." (Video: The Washington Post)

The amendments target Egypts 2014 constitution, passed after Mubaraks fall, and would undo many checks and balances designed to limit the presidents power.

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Last year, Sissi was reelected but only after all his opponents were either driven out of the race, jailed or pressured in other ways. His sole nominal opponent entered the race at the 11th hour, and a few days earlier had been one of his staunchest supporters.

The rush to push through the constitutional amendments may have been motivated by an expectation that Trump Administration wouldnt object to Sissi extending his rule, according to a report in the independent Egyptian news website Mada Masr citing official sources.

Sources quoted by the website also said the vote was intended to fly under the radar before the new Democratic-controlled House of Representatives gave attention to Egypt. So far, the White House has remained silent on the proposed amendments.

The 596-seat parliament is predominantly filled with Sissi loyalists. His supporters argue that Sissi needs several more terms to achieve his goals of modernizing Egypt and its economy and combating terrorism.

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It is not true that these amendments were suggested by members of the parliament and the president has nothing to do with them, said Zaree. There is only one person (in charge) in Egypt. Only Abdel Fatah al-Sissi. Public opinion in Egypt is Sissis opinion.

The amendments will also enhance Sissis power to appoint senior judges , including the chief justice of the Supreme Court, and would erode judicial oversight on any legislation as well as the judiciarys financial independence.

These amendments effectively serve to destroy the constitutional separation of powers, concentrating all authority into the presidents hands and solidifying his authoritarian rule, a group for 10 Egyptian human rights groups said in a letter this week.

The amendments also call for a 25 percent quota for women in parliament as well as adequate representation for minority Coptic Christians, youth and people with disabilities. But activist groups in their letter described the additional provisions as the governments disingenuous attempts to sugarcoat its authoritarian power-grab.
CAIRO  In his heart, Zeyad Salim remains convinced that Hosni Mubarak's ignominious ouster in 2011 was richly deserved. Still, the street vendor also wishes that the longtime autocrat had never been removed. Like many Egyptians on Tuesday, Salim had mixed emotions about Mubarak's passing. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight I know that people revolted against him for all the right reasons, the 24-year-old said. But after living under our current conditions, I think people have more appreciation for him.

If Mubarak was a thief, then what do you call the ones who came after him?

Across Egypt, emotions ran the gamut in the wake of the death of Mubarak, 91, in a Cairo hospital after surgery. There were relief and muted glee that the man who had repressed the Arab worlds most populous nation for three decades, and who was ousted in 2011 during the massive Arab Spring uprisings that rocked the region, was dead.

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There were also sadness and grief. Some Egyptians called him a father figure and a war hero for his role in the 1973 Arab-Israeli war. Others were indifferent to his death, for Mubarak had been ailing and sidelined for years.

What they collectively evinced, however, was that they viewed his passing through the prism of todays Egypt  and that has improved the former autocrats image even among some of his staunchest detractors.

Today, Egyptians are living under another authoritarian leader, President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi, whose regime is widely considered more repressive than Mubaraks. And the vast majority of Egyptians are worse off than they were under Mubaraks own erratic economy.

Mubarak will be remembered by Egyptians in probably a very polarizing fashion, said H.A. Hellyer, a senior associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in London and a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington. For his fans, he was a war hero, but the regime Mubarak built meant repression and economic dysfunctionality. And that all led to the 2011 revolutionary uprising, which ultimately led to his ouster.

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Thats Mubaraks legacy: the uprising and the factors that led to it. The uprising is over, but the factors remain and have intensified.

On Tuesday, Egypts military, which deposed Mubarak in 2011 amid the populist revolt, referred to the former air force officer as a war hero in a tweet. A military funeral is scheduled for Wednesday after noon prayers at el-Mosheer Tantawi mosque, one of Cairos most well-known mosques. Sissi, a former military general himself, announced three days of mourning for Mubarak.

Even as the military planned a glorious send-off, state-run and pro-Sissi media noted that Mubaraks regime was marked by corruption, wasteful spending and failed infrastructure projects, and that he manipulated the constitution and elections in his favor.

Timothy Kaldas, a nonresident fellow at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy in Washington, said such coverage is an attempt by the Sissi government to undermine any fond remembrances of Mubarak. But Sissi, Kaldas noted, also has been accused of the same misspending and much worse repression.

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In trying to deter nostalgia for Mubarak, theyre reminding ppl of [Sissis] flaws, Kaldas tweeted.

Mohamed Fawzy, a 32-year-old engineer, said he was ecstatic when Mubarak was forced to step down. Today, he admits that he is worse off economically and that he worries about issues such as water scarcity. But he blames Mubarak for his woes.

We revolted against injustice, his plans to force his son on us and police brutality, Fawzy said. In a way, he is a direct accomplice in the situation we are facing now. He created a state of political voidness. . . . There was no politics under Mubarak, no one was on the political scene but him, and this is what has left us where we are now.

Mona Seif, a human rights activist, said she was not as joyful as I would have thought Id be about Mubaraks death. She added that it doesnt change the injustice he started or alleviate the repressive oppression we are dealing with now. Her brother, fellow activist Alaa Abd-El Fattah, was jailed under the Mubarak regime and is currently detained by the Sissi government.

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The first image I had in my head when I heard the news of Mubaraks death was of me banging on the Tora prison door, wanting to share the news with Alaa, Seif said.

To Sabah Abdellatif, 60, a retired teacher, Mubaraks passing felt like losing a father figure. Even though she didnt approve of Mubaraks repressive tactics and economic decisions, Abdellatif is willing to reassess the former presidents legacy. He must have faced other pressures, Abdellatif said. I can now see that. We are saddened by his death.

Other Egyptians said they wished Mubarak had never been toppled. Under Sissi, strict austerity measures have led to rising prices, subsidy cuts, deepening poverty, unemployment and a lack of opportunities  the very factors that triggered Mubaraks downfall. While the economy is showing some signs of improving, the benefits have not trickled down to most Egyptians.

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Ahmed Andeel, 39, a sales manager, said that under Mubarak, he would have spent 50 Egyptian pounds a day to feed his family. Now, 1,000 pounds doesnt pay for half their groceries. My biggest shock was when Mubarak was removed, Andeel said. I am wholeheartedly against any revolution in any country. My life under Mubarak was better. My life was much simpler and safer.
CAIRO  Gunmen said to be from the Islamic State opened fire on a bus carrying worshipers returning from a remote Coptic Christian monastery in upper Egypt on Friday, killing at least eight and wounding 13, said a top religious leader and local officials. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Terrorists opened fire on a bus carrying people, Coptic Christian Archbishop Makarious of Minya, a town roughly 150 miles south of Cairo, said in a phone interview. The pilgrims, said community leaders, were returning from a visit to Saint Samuel the Confessor Monastery in a remote patch of Egypts western desert.

Six of those killed were from the same family, according to a post on the Facebook page of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt.

On Friday evening, Egypts Islamic State affiliate, which has vowed to target the nations minority Coptic Christians, claimed responsibility for the attack through its Amaq news service. It was the first attack claimed by the militant group this year outside northern Sinai, where it is fighting Egyptian security forces. In a statement, the militants claimed that they had killed 13 and wounded 18, and that the attack was in response to the jailing of females they claim to be their supporters by the Egyptian government.

Fridays violence comes more than a year after a similar assault on Christian pilgrims traveling to the same monastery. In May 2017, gunmen attacked buses carrying worshipers, leaving at least 28 people dead. Since December 2017, the last major assault on Christians, there has been a relative lull in the targeting of the Coptic community. Fridays attack, many fear, could signal the launch of another deadly campaign by the Islamic State against Christians.

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President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi on Friday sought to allay the concerns of a community that has staunchly supported him, even as they have been under attack by Islamist extremists for the past two years. Egyptian officials and analysts view the Islamic State's targeting of Christians as an effort to expand beyond their traditional theater of operations in the northern Sinai and foment religious divisions among Egyptians.

I mourn with deep sorrow the martyrs who were killed today by treacherous hands which aim to undermine the solid fabric of the nation, and I wish speedy recovery for the injured, Sissi said in a statement. I confirm our determination to continue our efforts to combat dark terrorism and apprehend the culprits.

The death toll Friday could have been much higher. There were several vehicles carrying Christian pilgrims, but the militants targeted two buses, said Bishop Aghathon Talaat, a Christian community leader. One bus escaped when its driver swerved onto another road. But the second bus, carrying at least 20 passengers, was stopped by the militants, who were in two SUVs, Talaat said in a phone interview.

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A number of masked men got out of them, took the mobile phones of the passengers and then shot all the men dead, said Talaat, who is the bishop of Maghagha, a nearby town with a hospital where many of the wounded were treated. They were wearing militarylike uniforms, survivors told me.

Images of the bus distributed on social media showed a bloody scene, including a wounded child. The execution-style killings mirror the attack in May 2017 in which gunmen, also dressed in fatigues, killed some victims with single gunshots to the head.

Since 2016, Islamic State suicide bombers in Egypt have targeted churches in Cairo, Alexandria and Tanta, killing scores. Last month, an Egyptian military court sentenced to death 17 people convicted in those attacks. The defendants were charged with belonging to the Islamic State and orchestrating the assaults on the Christian community, which makes up about 10 percent of the population.

Attacks by the Islamic State prompted Sissis government to launch a major military operation this year in Egypts restive northern Sinai province, the stronghold of the militants. A wave of Islamist militancy has pervaded the country since the military overthrow of the elected president, Mohamed Morsi, and the subsequent crackdown on his Muslim Brotherhood partys supporters.

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The Islamic State has also targeted Sufi Muslims, which the group considers heretics. In November 2017, militants attacked a Sufi mosque in the northern Sinai, slaughtering more than 300 worshipers. It was the deadliest terrorist attack in Egypts modern history.

After every assault on the Christian community, Egypts security forces bolster security around churches and other holy sites throughout the country. Fridays violence was an indicator to many that such measures have not worked.

After the attack, Talaat said, some people angrily took to the streets and blocked a road, demanding better security for their community. The remote area in the western desert, where militant groups have long targeted Egyptian security forces, has poor cellphone reception and unpaved, often unlit roads.

There has to be a security solution, Talaat said. The road is not paved well, there is not enough lightning, and there is no cell network, either. This is why it is targeted.
CAIRO  May El Shamy could have kept silent, but she didnt. So when the 28-year-old fashion editor goes to work these days, she feels proud. Shes done what few Egyptian women have done: filed a sexual harassment complaint against one of her bosses. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight At the same time, I am a little scared, she said. Her boss, who denies the allegation, remains in his job and in charge of her fate.

A growing number of Egyptian women, many influenced by the #MeToo movement, are coming forward to expose sexual harassment, womens rights activists and lawyers say.

Even as Egyptian women are starting to call it out, they are facing a perhaps unique obstacle, a repressive government that often considers such complaints to be a form of unacceptable criticism. In some recent cases, government authorities have taken legal action against women.

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In other instances, like Shamys, the women are subjected to a vicious backlash that brands them as terrorists or extremists. These campaigns against the women seem to be modeled on the tactics used by the government to target political opponents and critics.

Shamy is believed to be the first Egyptian woman to file a police report against her superior, a man who works for an influential newspaper aligned with the government. After she filed the report, she was targeted by an online smear campaign, which included accusations that she is a member of the banned Muslim Brotherhood, considered by the government to be a terrorist organization.

May broke the barrier of fear and this will encourage more women to speak out against sexual harassment, said Intsar El Saeed, her lawyer. But the challenge we are facing now is to not allow them to politicize the case and drag it away from the sexual harassment issues.

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Restrictions on speaking out

In July, Egypts parliament passed a law granting the government sweeping powers to regulate social and traditional media, permitting President Abdel Fatah al-Sissis widening security clampdown on free speech and dissent to deepen.

Then, last month, the government handed human rights activist Amal Fathy a two-year jail sentence for posting a 12-minute Facebook video detailing her allegations of sexual harassment at a bank and decrying the governments failure to protect women.

Authorities said Fathy was spreading false news to undermine the countrys image and suspended her sentence only after she paid a hefty fine. But she is now facing a separate trial after the government accused her of being a member of a banned outlaw group.

The watchdog group Amnesty International blasted the verdict as an outrageous case of injustice, adding that Fathys case highlighted the vital issue of womens safety in Egypt. Najia Bounaim, Amnestys North Africa campaigns director, said Fathy was not a criminal and should not be punished for her bravery.

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This summer, a Lebanese tourist was sentenced to eight years in prison after she described in a Facebook video the sexual harassment she endured while on vacation in Egypt. A Cairo court found her guilty of spreading false rumors harmful to society, among other charges. Only after an international uproar threatened Egypts tourism industry was the womans sentence cut short last month and she was allowed to leave Egypt after paying a heavy fine.

Sexual harassment has long been a problem in Egypt. A United Nations survey in 2013 found that 99 percent of Egyptian women reported having experienced it. And last year, a Thomson Reuters Foundation survey found Cairo to be the worlds most dangerous megacity for women.

The abuses continue despite a law adopted in 2014 criminalizing sexual harassment. Sissi himself vowed to take a stand against sexual violence and protect womens rights.

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Since then, however, lawyers and activists say they are seeing more women report sexual assaults, whether on social media or in local media. Police and prosecutors are more willing in some cases to investigate their claims in a timely manner, said activists and lawyers.

The #MeToo movement in the United States, they added, has prompted more public discussion. Last month, a woman posted a video on Facebook showing a man pestering her to have a cup of coffee with her, sparking a discussion on social media on what constitutes sexual harassment.

Whats happening in Egypt is that people are becoming more and more aware of sexual harassment and how much of an epidemic it is here, said Shamys lawyer, Saeed. But she added that while there has been a lot of progress in the last few years, there is still a lot more to accomplish on this front.

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Harassment at work

Shamy had worked for seven years for Youm 7, a privately owned newspaper and website. Over the summer, she said, one of her bosses, Dandarawy el Hawary, started to make comments that made her uncomfortable.

I was verbally harassed multiple times, said Shamy, tall and soft-spoken. And when it turned into physical harassment I decided to speak out against it.

Shamy, on her lawyers advice, declined to specify the nature of the assault until after the investigation. Shamy said she was not raped.

Hes not supposed to touch me in anyway, said Shamy, who is married.

Hawary, in an interview, denied the allegations, saying there is not a single evidence against me, not even a weak one.

How can you criminalize one man and support an alleged victim? he added. I agree with you we all should support the victims of sexual harassment, but you have to have proof they are victims.

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Shamy initially filed an internal complaint, but she said it became clear the newspaper was very passive in dealing with her allegations. Shamy then filed the police complaint, which triggered an investigation by Egyptian prosecutors.

Since the news of her complaint leaked online, shes been under attack. Some on social media have claimed shes having marital problems; others have sought to portray her as mentally unstable to destroy her credibility, Saeed said.

Activists are concerned that the backlash could stop other sexually assaulted women from coming forward.

All of these are tools that make it harder for victims to seek justice, said Mona Ezzat, director of the work and womens program at the New Woman Foundation in Cairo.

Today, as Shamy awaits the findings of the prosecutors investigation, she makes every effort, she said, to avoid her accuser who still writes for the paper.

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We dont talk, she said.

sudarsan.raghavan@washpost.com
CAIRO  A prominent Egyptian activist emerged from prison Friday after serving a five-year sentence for organizing and taking part in anti-government protests, his family and lawyer said. But as in the cases of other recently released political prisoners, Alaa Abdel Fattah will not be entirely free: He is required to report to his local police station at the end of each day for the next five years.

Abdel Fattah played a leading role in the 2011 Arab Spring revolts that ousted Egyptian autocrat Hosni Mubarak. Three years later, Abdel Fattah was jailed for taking part in a peaceful demonstration at a time when Egypts government had banned public gathering and unauthorized protests.

His imprisonment was considered unjust by human rights activists and his supporters. Tens of thousands of opponents and critics have been jailed by current President Abdel Fatah al-Sissis regime, widely seen by critics as the most authoritarian in the countrys modern history.

On Facebook, supporters of Abdel Fattah set up pages calling for his release, including one labeled Free Alaa. On Friday, his sisters and lawyer jubilantly declared that he had returned home, posting videos of him walking out of the police station and shaking hands with friends. His family also thanked those who pushed for his freedom over the past several years.

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We are truly grateful to all this support, Mona Sief, Abdel Fattahs sister, posted on her Facebook page.

Its unclear how much time Abdel Fattah will be allowed to spend in society. He has to report to the police every day. At the very least, he will need to sign a logbook at the station. At worst, he will be required to spend the night. Thats what happened to Egyptian photojournalist Mahmoud Abu Zaid, widely known as Shawkan, who was freed from jail three weeks ago also after serving a five-year sentence.

Abdel Farrahs lawyer fears the worst. He expects his client to spend his nights under the watchful eye of Egypts security apparatus.

This is a man who will have to spend half of his day, daily, at the police station, said the lawyer, Taher Aboelnasr. For half of his day, he has no right to act freely. He has no control over it. He cant even travel.

Sanaa Sief, another sister of Abdel Fattah, wrote on her Facebook page that her brother will remain suppressed. Referring to him, she wrote, the person under probation is a person still serving time. He is not a person who will get released and live as a normal and free human being. He is spending half his time under their grip. 

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Sissi, a former general, led a military coup that ousted democratically elected Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in 2013. The following year Sissi was elected president, and swiftly launched a campaign to silence his opponents and critics, targeting media organizations, human rights and pro-democracy activists and nongovernmental organizations.

Abdel Fattah, an influential blogger on social media, had long fought for civil rights. He has been detained for short periods by several governments, including Mubaraks, for his outspokenness. In 2014, when Egypt was under a temporary military-backed government before Sissi's ascent to office, Abdel Fattah was convicted and sentenced to five years for taking part in a protest against trials of civilians under military tribunals.

While in prison, Abdel Fattahs father died. His son Khaled, named after a pro-democracy activist who help trigger the populist revolution against Mubarak, was only 2 years old when he was jailed.

On Friday, one photo was widely circulated on social media: It was of a smiling Abdel Fattah playing with the feet of his now 7-year-old son at his home.
CAIRO  A train slammed into a barrier at Cairos main railway station and exploded on Wednesday, sparking a major fire that killed at least 20 people and injured 40. Hours later, Transportation Minister Hisham Arafat resigned, according to a cabinet statement. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight The National Railway Authority said in a statement that the blaze erupted after the train struck a concrete barrier at Ramses Station, in central Cairo. The trains fuel tank apparently exploded, creating a huge ball of flames that engulfed the platforms and nearby buildings.

Egypts prosecutor general said Wednesday evening that a preliminary investigation indicated that a fight between two train conductors caused the crash.

The conductor of the train that crashed had stepped off it, without applying the hand brake, to confront a conductor who was blocking the way with his rail car, Nabil Sadek said in a statement.

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The driver left the rail car without taking any measures to put on the brakes, Sadek said.

Images on Egyptian television and social media showed heavy plumes of black smoke rising from the station as ambulances and fire engines arrived.

Surveillance-camera videos that later circulated on social media revealed the chaos inside the station. One video showed a massive ball of flames engulfing a platform as passengers fled. A man covered in flames is seen stumbling as other passengers try to douse him with water.

Suddenly everything turned orange, said Hend Ahmad el-Taher, 30, a teacher, who was in a cafeteria waiting for her train to depart when the explosion occurred. People in flames were running and screaming.

Egypts railway infrastructure has long been neglected, and previous train accidents have been blamed on a lack of investment and poor management of the railway network. Arafat had recently asked President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi for more money to rebuild the rail infrastructure.

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The Wednesday explosion and the ministers resignation are likely to renew questions about Sissis economic priorities. He has spent billions on major projects, including building a new capital and bolstering the military. But the government has focused little on refurbishing dilapidated infrastructure or spending on public education and health care in a country where 90 percent of the population lives in poverty.

Train accidents are alarmingly common in Egypt and have been increasing. In 2017 alone, 1,793 such accidents occurred, according to government statistics. In 2011, in comparison, there were 489 accidents.

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In August 2017, 43 people were killed when two passenger trains collided near the northern coastal city of Alexandria. And in 2002, a fire swept through an overcrowded train near Cairo, killing more than 370 people. It was the nations deadliest train accident.

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On Wednesday, most of those killed were on the platform, waiting for their trains or heading toward the exit.

I ordered my coffee and was about to pay for it and get back to my train, Taher recalled. But God worked His ways and the guy at the cafeteria took too long to get my coffee. In just one second, what happened happened. I could have been out on the platform.

It was a nightmare, she added. Even the people who got out safe were terrified.
CAIRO  An Egyptian court on Saturday acquitted a U.S. charity worker who had spent almost three years in pretrial detention for her work with an organization helping street children. Police arrested Aya Hijazi, her husband and six others in May 2014 on charges of abusing children in her care and engaging in human trafficking, kidnapping, sexual exploitation and torture.

Human rights groups said the charges were fabricated. Hijazis detention came as part of a broader crackdown that has neutered independent civil society in Egypt.

The acquittal comes about two weeks after President Trump met Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi in Washington, the strongman's first visit to the United States since he came to power in a 2013 military coup.

On Saturday, the Cairo Criminal Court dropped all charges against Hijazi and her co-defendants and ordered their release. As Judge Mohamed el-Feqqi read his verdict aloud, the courtroom erupted. Dressed in white prison uniforms, Hijazi and her husband, Mohammed Hassanein, embraced inside the defendants cage as friends and family cried, cheered and chanted for joy.

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They were singing, The sun of freedom has risen,  said Tarek Hussein, an activist who attended the hearing.

Hijazi, an Egyptian American, and Hassanein, an Egyptian citizen, are co-founders of the Belady Foundation, which provided services for Cairo street children. Police raided the organizations premises in May 2014, also detaining a cook, an artist who shared the premises and the children present at the time.

A forensic report by the public prosecutor later found no evidence that any of the foundations children had been sexually abused.

Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton and several U.S. lawmakers had spoken out about the case.

Lawyers said Saturday that the state's witnesses had offered contradictory and inadequate evidence against the defendants. "Even the child and his mother testified at court in defense of Aya and the others," said Taher Abol Nasr, Hijazi's attorney, referring to a child whom state prosecutors alleged the group had kidnapped.

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Tens of thousands of Egyptians have been detained by security forces or have disappeared since Sissi led a putsch against Islamist President Mohamed Morsi in summer 2013.

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State officials depict the crackdown as part of a war against Islamist extremists who threaten to destroy the country. Human rights groups and activists say the dragnet has extended to dissidents of all political persuasions.

The Trump administration has proposed massive cuts to U.S. foreign aid, but the White House has said it expects that the $1.3 billion in U.S. military aid to Egypt will continue.

"You have a great friend and ally in the United States and in me," Trump told Sissi during their meeting at the Oval Office.

Nongovernmental organizations in Egypt have faced growing pressure since late 2011, when authorities raided 17 pro-democracy and rights groups, accusing them of joining an international conspiracy against the country.

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During Sissis presidency, that pressure has accelerated, and representatives of many of the countrys leading human rights groups have been arrested, subjected to travel bans or had their assets frozen.

"Aya Hijazi, her husband, and their colleagues are finally free, but the system that subjected them to a travesty of justice for nearly three years remains unchanged," said Joe Stork, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch.

Shouting above the din from his courtroom cage Saturday, Hassanein vowed to continue their charity work. "We promised the children they won't return to the streets again, and this promise was hindered for three years. We will return and meet that promise," he said.

Loveluck reported from Beirut.
CAIRO  Egyptian photographer Mahmoud Abu Zeid, the most high-profile journalist imprisoned by Egypt, was released Monday after more than five years in jail for what human rights groups say was simply doing his job covering anti-government protests. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight A picture of a smiling Abu Zeid, widely known as Shawkan, with his father and brother was posted on a family-run Twitter account shortly after his release with the hashtag #Shawkan_is_Free.

Thank God that it is over, declared Taher Aboelnasr, his lawyer. I pray to God that things become easier for him from now on and his life gets better.

For years, human rights groups, the United Nations, journalist organizations and legions of supporters have waged a campaign to release Shawkan. He became a visible symbol of the ongoing authoritarianism of President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi, who has jailed tens of thousands of opponents and critics of his regime, including many journalists.

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In the end, Shawkan, 32, was released only because he had completed his prison term before finally being formally sentenced last September. Nevertheless, he will be required to report to a police station for the next five years at the end of each day and spend the night there. His lawyers plan to challenge the measure.

We are relieved to hear that Shawkan is finally free after spending over five years in jail and call on authorities to end their shameful treatment of this photojournalist by removing any conditions to his release, Sherif Mansour, the Middle East and North Africa program coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists, said in a statement. The Egyptian government should take steps immediately to improve its image, which has been badly tarnished by this unjust imprisonment  and it can start by releasing all journalists jailed in relation to their work.

At least 26 journalists are currently jailed in Egypt for the doing their work, according to Reporters Without Borders. The Committee to Protect Journalists has put the number of journalists in jail at 25.

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Shawkan was arrested on Aug. 14, 2013, while covering clashes between Egyptian security forces and supporters of ousted president Mohamed Morsi, after police and army units tried to violently disperse sit-in protests at Cairos Rabaa al-Adawiya Square.

Morsi, the elected leader, had been deposed that year in a military coup led by Sissi.

More than 800 protesters were killed in what Human Rights Watch described as one of the worlds largest killings of demonstrators in a single day in recent history.

Shawkan, along with hundreds of others, was charged with taking part in unauthorized protests, possessing weapons and belonging to the now banned Muslim Brotherhood, which Morsi led.

Shawkan has denied the allegations and said he was there to take photos for a British-based photo agency, Demotix.

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On Monday, 214 other people who were arrested along with Shawkan and served a similar sentence were also released. Seventy-five others in the mass trial were sentenced to death and are now appealing their verdict, according to activists and lawyers.

Shawkan was supposed to have been released in September, but a six-month jail sentence was tacked on because he couldnt afford to pay the fine, human rights activists said.

Two foreign journalists arrested with him were released that same day. The watchdog group Amnesty International said the prosecution during his trial failed to provide sufficient evidence of Shawkans alleged crimes. The group described the mass trial as a mockery of justice.

As a prisoner of conscience, he should never have been forced to spend a single minute behind bars  let alone five and a half years, Amnesty Internationals North Africa Campaigns Director Najia Bounaim said in a statement. Bounaim described Shawkans five-year-long probation  which requires him to spend 12 hours a day, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., at a police station  as ludicrous and urged they be lifted immediately.

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Egypt is one of the worlds worst jailers of journalists, the Committee to Protect Journalists said. The Sissi government has jailed 19 journalists on charges of false news, the most in the world, the organization said. In recent months, Egyptian journalists have been imprisoned for covering election irregularities, police abuse and interviewing a gay man on a television news show.

Foreign journalists, too, have been targeted. A Times of London journalist was expelled from the country last year. And last month, a New York Times journalist was barred entry into Egypt, detained for hours and deported.

Sissi in the past has justified the ongoing crackdown of opponents, activists and critics as necessary to stabilize the country economically and politically, as well as to undermine terrorists targeting the country. Last week, at a summit in the resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh, he warned European officials not to lecture Egypt on its human rights record, declaring that the Arab worlds situation was different from the West.

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After his release at 6 a.m. Monday, Shawkan went to his home that he hadnt seen since his arrest. Pictures posted on social media showed a joyful Shawkan taking selfies with relatives and friends, and playing with his niece.

By 6 p.m., though, he will be back at the police station to spend his first night.

Can you imagine? For five and half years he has been behind bars, and he still has to suffer during his probation period, said Aboelnasr, his lawyer.

I pray that this is the last case of its kind, he continued. I pray no one gets to live this experience.

sudarsan.raghavan@washpost.com
CAIRO  A gunman clashed with police outside a Coptic church in Cairo on Friday after trying to break through security barriers protecting the site. At least nine people were killed, an official said, in the latest violence targeting Egypt's Christian minority. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Egyptian authorities identified the gunman as 33-year-old Ibrahim Ismail.

A statement by the Interior Ministry said that Ismail had attempted to attack another church near to the Mar Mina church, but he failed and ended up shooting two people in a shop next to it.

He then proceeded to attack the Mar Mina church, leaving nine dead, before security forces wounded and arrested him, confiscating his weapon, the ministry statement said.

Ismail is suspected to have links to several past attacks, including one by a group that opened fire on a police bus last year in Cairo. At least eight policemen were killed in the May 2016 attack.

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The Islamic State asserted responsibility for Fridays assault.

The spokesman for Egypts Health Ministry, Khaled Megahed, said eight Coptic Christians and a policeman were killed in the attack, the Associated Press reported.

At least five people were wounded, Megahed said.

The attack began when gunmen on a motorcycle started firing outside the Mar Mina church in the Helwan neighborhood south of central Cairo, while some worshipers were inside. Egypts state-run Middle East News Agency, citing the Interior Ministry, initially reported that at least two attackers tried to enter the church. The second attacker apparently fled, the agency reported.

A video posted on social media purports to show Ismail roaming a deserted street before being struck by gunfire. A man is seen later sneaking up to him from the back and snatching his weapon. Dozens of people then rush out from hiding to tackle and beat the fallen gunman.

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Egypts Coptic community has come under increasing attack by Islamist militants in recent years, prompting tighter security measures around churches and other sites.

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After Fridays bloodshed, Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi condemned the assault as vicious. A statement from Egypts parliament said the bullets of terrorists did not differentiate between a Muslim and a Christian, or between a mosque and a church.

In May, gunmen ambushed a bus carrying a group of Coptic Christians to a monastery in the Minya region, about 150 miles south of Cairo, killing at least 30 people.

Brian Murphy in Washington contributed to this report.

Correction: An earlier version of this article reported that Ismail, the suspected gunman, had been killed.
CAIRO  Before their village became a killing field, it was a sanctuary. Many of the 305 people slaughtered at a mosque in the village of Rawda on Friday had moved there to escape clashes between the Islamic State and Egyptian security forces elsewhere in Egypts Sinai Peninsula, witnesses said. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight The village had become sort of a motherland to its mostly Sufi Muslim residents, who saw safety in numbers.

But in recent months, the militants had chased down the displaced to Rawda. They repeatedly ordered the Sufis to give up their rituals  or face death. The community reported the threats to the military, villagers said, but no added protection arrived.

At least 305 people were killed in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula after militants detonated a bomb and shot at worshipers in a mosque on Nov. 24. (Video: Joyce Lee/The Washington Post)

So the residents erected four-foot-high sand barriers around the mosque and nearby roads in a futile effort to protect themselves.

After the threats, we were expecting an attack, but not something so savage, said Yussef Mustafa, 37, a government employee who lost three brothers in the assault.

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The massacre in Rawda highlights the vulnerability of communities trapped in a conflict between Egyptian security forces and one of the Islamic State's most virulent affiliates. The attack, the deadliest in Egypt's modern history, is the latest sign of the government's inability to contain a spreading insurgency that is becoming more brazen and ambitious.

No group has asserted responsibility for Fridays bloodshed. But the Islamic State affiliate known as Wilayat Sinai is active in the area, and witnesses said some of the attackers carried a black Islamic State flag.

Wilayat Sinai has long relied on the sympathies of disaffected Sinai tribes ignored by the government and drawn its leaders and fighters from local communities. But particularly striking in Friday's attack was that most of the victims belonged to a clan of one of the most powerful tribes in the Sinai.

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That suggests an important shift for the group: Even though most of the leadership still hails from the Sinai, its membership now includes many more outsiders with no ties to the region, analysts and residents said.

Membership has been bolstered by returnees who fought with the Islamic State, also known as ISIS, in Syria and Iraq, according to Zack Gold, a nonresident fellow at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.

These outside fighters  even if Egyptians, theyre foreign to North Sinai  dont care about tribal interests and red lines, he said.

Fridays carnage was part of a broader shift toward sectarianism for the Islamic State branch, both in the Sinai and on the Egyptian mainland. While sectarian attacks have been a hallmark of militants tactics in Syria and Iraq, they have gained prominence in Egypt only within the past year.

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In the past, the Islamic State attacked mostly soldiers and police. But more recently, the militants have targeted the country's Coptic Christian minority with devastating bombings of churches in Cairo, Alexandria and other cities, as well as assassinations, forcing thousands of Christians to flee the Sinai.

The Rawda mosque attack and other high-casualty incidents afford the Islamic State the media attention that it seeks, delegitimize the efforts of the Egyptian government and further the groups global sectarian ambitions, said Jacob Greene, a research associate at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy.

The Sufis of Rawda understood their precarious existence.

They believe in a moderate brand of Islam that promotes tolerance and pluralism. But the Islamic State and other Sunni extremists have long considered Sufism as heretical. In Mali, Pakistan and elsewhere, the Islamic State has targeted Sufi mosques and shrines.

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In November 2016, the Islamic State kidnapped and beheaded Sulaiman Abu Haraz, a prominent Sufi cleric believed to have been 100 years old. The Islamic State accused him of practicing witchcraft. In a photo released by the militants, a masked man in black attire is seen wielding a large, curved sword behind the head of the cleric, who was associated with the Rawda mosque. One of Harazs students was also executed.

In an Islamic State magazine interview two months later, a senior militant commander in the Sinai identified Rawda, and the district where its located, as one of three Sufi areas the group hoped to eradicate. The commander said that Sufis deserve to be killed if they dont repent and accused them of collaborating with the oppressor.

Egyptian military personnel passed through the area and at times conducted operations but never stayed. And they never came during Friday prayers, the main religious gathering of the week that always attracted hundreds of villagers, residents said.

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Meanwhile, Islamic State fighters were moving closer to the village, which is on the northern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, west of the provincial capital Arish.

The conflict is a deadly game of cat and mouse  where Egyptian forces are fighting with tanks, armored vehicles and other conventional weapons, and Islamic State fighters stage hit-and-run attacks, mostly on army checkpoints and outposts.

Military operations had pushed the group out of the central Sinai and toward Arish. But in recent months, the fighters have moved west toward the mountains near Rawda, according to residents and local journalists.

Two weeks ago, an Islamic State member distributed leaflets in the village ordering Sufi scholars to stop heretical actions, according to two local journalists. So the people closed the main road leading to the mosque, said Mohamed Elhor, one of the journalists.

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But villagers continued their daily lives.

Khalid Soleiman, 22, and his large extended Sufi family arrived nearly two years ago after clashes broke out between militants and the military in the Bedouin town of Sheikh Zuweid, southeast of Arish. It was unsafe to live there, said Soleiman, who is studying to be a pharmacist.

Last Friday, he was on his way to the mosque for the traditional Juma prayer. Hundreds of men and boys had gathered inside and outside the building. Women were not present, as is typical in many conservative communities.

As Soleiman approached the mosque, more than two dozen militants arrived in several pickups. Some fanned out and gunned down panicked worshipers, while others entered the mosque to kill more. The microphone inside was on during the carnage.

We could hear people scream, recalled Soleiman, who hid behind a house. I could hear the militants yell: Kill them all. Young and old. Dont spare anyone. 

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Soleiman tried to escape from the house. But as he ran, a bullet grazed his leg. He took cover inside a chicken coop of another house.

Some of the gunmen executed the wounded and anyone who tried to surrender. Others set cars on fire.

Most of the fighters, he said, had Egyptian accents. Some had reddish beards, he said, suggesting to him that they were foreigners. Roughly a half-hour later, the gunmen jumped into their vehicles and sped into the mountainsThe first body Soleiman found at the mosque was his uncle.

He would find the bodies of 17 more relatives.

By some estimates, at least a quarter of the male population of Rawda is dead.

There is no future for the village, Soleiman said. Unless we wait for the children to grow up and start their own families.

Louisa Loveluck contributed to this report.
CAIRO  Twelve new coronavirus cases emerged Friday in Egypt among workers on a Nile River cruise ship popular with foreign tourists, the World Health Organization and Egypt's Health Ministry announced. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Among those infected during a cruise on the vessel last month were three travelers from Montgomery County, Md., who were diagnosed with the virus two weeks after they returned from an overseas trip, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan confirmed Friday evening. All three are now recovering from moderate flu-like symptoms, health officials said.

It is unclear whether the outbreak on the ship is linked to other infections reported in the United States and elsewhere involving recent travelers to Egypt.

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The Egyptian cruise ship workers were tested for the virus at the end of its 14-day incubation period, said Egyptian health authorities, which suggests the infections occurred during a cruise between the cities of Aswan and Luxor sometime in the third week of February.

Authorities have not disclosed the number and nationalities of passengers on that cruise.

Egyptian authorities were prompted to investigate a possible outbreak involving the Nile cruise after a Taiwanese American woman who had been aboard tested positive for the virus Feb. 28, after she returned to Taiwan, the joint statement said. Health officials said they suspect she had spread the virus to others on the cruise, including two unidentified Americans.

After Egyptian authorities were alerted to the womans infection, 12 workers on her ship were quarantined, and they tested positive on the last day of their isolation, officials said. Other people who had come into contact with the vessel and the workers have also been quarantined, the officials added, as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Egypt reached 15.

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A WHO epidemiologist said Friday that while the tests showed the virus was present in the workers bodies, none of them evinced symptoms, suggesting they had not readily passed the virus to many others.

We know that is possible, but we do not believe that is a major driver of transmission, Maria Van Kerkhove told reporters in Geneva. If we look at the actual epidemics and how these epidemics are unfolding, if they were a major driver of transmission, it would have caused much larger numbers of cases.

The 12 workers have been transferred to an isolation facility in a hospital for treatment. The cruise ship was named River A and was towed to an area 12 miles away from Luxor, according to the state-owned newspaper Al-Ahram, which cited security sources.

The vessels that cruise the Nile range in capacity, with some carrying as many as 150 passengers. The trip between Aswan and Luxor takes two to four nights, with the vessels stopping along the way for sightseeing.

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The announcement of the new cases increased the number of confirmed infections in Egypt fivefold. Before Friday, the Arab worlds most populous nation, with more than 100 million people, had declared only three cases since the virus surfaced last year in China. The first, a Chinese national, recovered. The other two, a Canadian oil worker and an Egyptian who had returned from Serbia, are receiving treatment.

There have been growing concerns among Egyptians, on the streets, in dinner conversation and on social media, about a lack of official transparency. There are suspicious that the spread of the coronavirus could be larger than what the government has revealed so far. Egypt has not closed schools, halted Friday prayers or stopped other large gatherings of people to limit the spread of the virus.

The coronavirus outbreak is hitting the Middle East just as Egypts tourism  the countrys biggest earner of foreign currency  is showing signs of rebounding from political upheaval and terrorist attacks in recent years.

Cruising on the Nile has become a bucket-list item for travelers. Many itineraries are sold out for the coming summer season, according to industry reports.

sudarsan.raghavan@washpost.com
ISMAILIA, Egypt  The mammoth cargo carrier blocking the Suez Canal was finally freed on Monday afternoon, nearly a week after it wedged sideways, blocking a key waterway and causing billions of dollars worth of damage to global trade. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Ship tracking data showed the Ever Given heading north at a speed that soon reached 7.5 knots, the equivalent of roughly 8.5 miles per hour. Nearby vessels blared their horns in celebration.

"We pulled it off!" Dutch salvage company Boskalis, which had been hired by the ship's owner to assist with the high-stakes operation, said in a news release.

The victory followed a tense six days as the flow of goods between Europe and the Middle East and China in the crucial waterway came to a standstill, with the pressure on Egypt growing each day as the costs of the delay mounted.

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Dredgers, tugboats and salvage crews worked frantically overnight on Sunday and had succeeded at freeing the boats stern by Monday morning, aided by the unusually high spring tide that arrived with the full moon.

At that point, Egyptian officials declared the operation a success. Lt. Gen. Osama Rabie, chief of the Suez Canal Authority, commended workers for achieving this heroic feat and performing their patriotic duty impeccably.

While the head of the Dutch salvage team warned that dislodging the boats bow could be far more complicated, a sense of optimism began to creep in, and Bloomberg News reported that one car carrier that had detoured away from the Suez Canal had taken another U-turn and was headed back for Egypt.

Egyptians have succeeded today in ending the crisis of the stranded ship in the Suez Canal, Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sissi said in a statement.

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He portrayed the efforts as a patriotic victory that assured the world that Egypt could be trusted with overseeing the 13 percent of all global trade that passes through the crucial waterway.

Later on Monday, it became clear that there was in fact reason to celebrate: Tugboats successfully reoriented the ship and pulled it into the center of the canal, then began towing it to the Bitter Lakes to the north, where it will be able to undergo an inspection without blocking traffic.

About 7 p.m., the Ever Given sailed past Fayed, a town on the shore of the Great Bitter Lake, under a large orange moon. It went that way, said a cook grilling meat at an outdoor restaurant, pointing north. It is so big!

Billions of dollars in trade have been lost each day from the grounding of the carrier, one of the largest container ships in the world. As of Monday morning, 367 vessels were trapped in a massive maritime traffic jam in the canal, according to Leth Agencies. Many other shipping companies opted to detour around the southern tip of Africa, adding a week or two to their journeys and driving up fuel costs.

Canal officials confirmed Monday that the shipping channel was still navigable and had not been damaged by the Ever Given, and ship-tracking data showed that traffic had resumed by Monday night. Three livestock carriers with live cattle on board were given priority to make their way through the newly reopened canal.

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The Suez Canal Authority said it will send through 113 ships per day. It will take three to four days to clear the backup, and experts expect a new set of headaches as vessels that were held up in the Suez all arrive in ports at the same time and find they have no room to dock and unload their cargo.

Shipping giant Maersk told customers on Monday morning that it could take 6 days or more for the jam in the Suez to be fully unsnarled.

The steep financial losses caused by the delays are also expected to lead to a cascade of insurance claims, which could raise thorny questions about who should be held liable for the incident.

With the Ever Given freed, the spotlight is likely to shine on the ongoing investigation into how the vessel got stuck, leading to billions of dollars in losses globally. While strong winds during a dust storm are widely seen as a major factor, the Suez Canal Authority has said that human or technical errors cannot be ruled out.

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One focus of the investigation will probably be the role of the two Egyptian canal pilots who were supposed to help the boats captain navigate the canal, and whether any communication failures occurred.

The International Chamber of Shipping on Monday called for the results of any investigations to be made public to ensure any vital lessons are learnt.

Mondays successful turnaround came after a series of delays, over several days, that were due to technical and weather challenges preventing the extraction of the vessel from the sand and mud of the canal.

Over the weekend, as progress seemed to stall, Sissi had ordered workers to prepare for an alternative scenario that would have involved lightening the ship by unloading its 18,000 containers. That could have taken days, even weeks, and required large cranes or specialized helicopters, according to industry experts.
An outbreak of fierce competition between banks in the $2.1 trillion mortgage market appears to be cooling off, analysts say, amid signs the key aggressors, ANZ Bank and Westpac, are no longer offering home loan rates that are near the cheapest in the market.

A key concern for bank investors throughout 2023 was the competitive battle between banks to win mortgage customers from rivals, as lenders sought to attract and retain mortgage holders by offering deep discounts on interest rates and paying cash-backs.

Goldman Sachs analyst Andrew Lyons said competition in home loans would probably remain muted but that banks returns would not improve dramatically. Credit: Getty/Stephen Clark

The trend has crunched profit margins in the industry, with Commonwealth Bank last year saying loans were being written at below its cost of capital  the rate of return demanded by shareholders.

While analysts say home loans will remain an important battleground, they are highlighting signs some of the most aggressive competition has cooled off recently, as banks look to protect profit margins.
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.
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.
This article is part of our Summer in Sydney series, where Herald staff reveal the best  and worst  of our city in the hotter months.

On a warm night five years ago I made my way to the kind of warehouse party Marrickville is known for  here today, gone tomorrow. It had a Gothic tinge to it, with lots of red lighting, and the music was loud. I had come from Surry Hills wearing a collared shirt and chinos, like an undercover cop that hadnt tried too hard, but somehow that didnt stop me meeting someone.

She was a musician, a local. We shouted to each other over the music for a while before she bought me a beer, counting out coins onto the makeshift bar. Seeing how closely I was observing these coins, the way my eyes widened and narrowed, she realised I wasnt entirely with it. It fell to my friends to give her my number and to insist she message me. Which she did.

Marrickville is humming on weekends, but many parts retain an appealing shabbiness. Credit: Dean Sewell

Today Im a fully fledged Marrickville resident, stooping beneath its frangipani trees to collect flowers on the order of our two-year-old. Ive gone from inebriated tourist to local playground connoisseur debating the merits of McNeilly v Steel Park, the kind of person who raves about how good the library is (its seriously very good) and spends afternoons in the warmer, shallower pools at the Annette Kellerman Aquatic Centre. The transformation is complete.

Marrickville, with its amenities, is made for young families. In a worrying sign for media diversity, it also appears to house a third of Sydneys journalists (see the Heralds James Morrison for a proper portrait of the place, and more considered hospitality recommendations).
A ute driven by a security contractor has crashed into a Jetstar passenger aircraft on the tarmac at Sydney Airport, trapping the driver and forcing the plane to be pulled from service.

The crash happened about 5.30am on Monday while the A320 was being towed to an airport gate at the domestic terminal ahead of passengers being loaded onto the aircraft.

The ute crashed into the Jetstar aircrafts number-two engine.

Jetstar and Sydney Airport are both investigating the cause of the ute hitting the planes No.2 engine. The security contractor driving the ute was uninjured.

An internal memo to Jetstar staff obtained by the Herald said the contractor was trapped in the vehicle, and ambulance and other emergency services rushed to the scene.
WAs major political parties have been challenged to disclose the origins of millions of dollars in dark money despite new rules making them do so not coming into effect until July.

The 2022-23 political party annual returns released earlier this month contain more than $9 million in donations not attributed to a donor.

The origin of this money, known as dark money, has always been hidden thanks to a loophole allowing WA political parties to use the Commonwealth donations rules, which set the threshold for disclosure at $16,300 as opposed to the WA threshold of $2600.

This meant $3.9 million of WA Labors $5.16 million in reported income in 2022-23 was dark money while nearly $2.46 million of the Liberals $3.96 million income was not attributed to a donor. The Nationals did not attribute any of its $420,000 in income.
20-year break in college didnt stop WSU student from becoming a nurse

January 22, 2024

OGDEN, Utah  Mandy Pellew was nearing the big four-oh when she returned to Weber State University after two decades away from college.

I got married and wanted to take a little break, but then I started having kids, so it turned into a long break, Pellew said. Its a pretty common thing to see people take long breaks and then jump back in when the time is right.

For Pellew, that time was the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. By then, she had four children ranging from teen to infant.

Thats when everything went online, people were working from home, and there was no better time, Pellew said. I went back to Weber and wrapped up all my prerequisites for the nursing program.

She then transitioned briefly to Davis Technical College, which partners with Weber State through a regional pathway agreement where credits for nursing transfer easily to WSU, making for smoother transitions between schools and into careers.

At 42, Pellew earned her associates in nursing from Weber State. Her husband, Jamie, and children were with her at graduation  a common scene according to Rieneke Holman, chair of the Annie Taylor Dee School of Nursing.

Ive noticed more nontraditional students coming back, usually for a second career, Holman said. Nontraditional students are those who are 25 and older, have a spouse, are divorced or widowed, or have children.

Currently, 53% of students in Weber States nursing programs  from associate through doctorate  are older than 25.

I love to see non-trad students go to nursing school because theres so much value in their life experience, Holman said. If you've ever worked a customer service job, that helps with nursing. If you're part of a family and have lived with people who have health conditions or take meds, that helps with nursing. If you know how to advocate for someone, that helps with nursing.

That rings true for Pellew, who said she was always drawn to nursing but her interest grew through motherhood.

Becoming a nurse was always in the back of my mind, but as I raised my family I just desired it more and more, Pellew said. I saw how nursing opens up possibilities to continue caring for people.

Weber States nursing school, which celebrated its 70th anniversary last year, produces more graduates than any other program at the university.

I loved the professors, Pellew said. I feel like we get closer to our teachers here. They want you to succeed and will do everything they can to make that happen. They spend time mentoring us, figuring out our goals and what kind of job we want.

Pellew is now working toward a bachelor of science in nursing, which she plans to complete by August. She said she loves the relationships shes made with fellow students.

You really get to know and care for each other, Pellew said. We were like family throughout the program, and a lot of us stayed connected when we took nursing jobs.

Pellew works in the critical care unit at Ogden Regional Medical Center, where she sees every kind of patient, including people who have recently undergone surgery, experienced cardiac or breathing issues, or are coming off drugs and alcohol.

I can see that Im making a difference in peoples lives, Pellew said. Its a demanding career, but its been a blessing to me.
Sinn Fein spokesperson on Public Expenditure and TD for Mayo, Rose Conway-Walsh, has called on the Dail to support Sinn Feins motion to stop vulture funds from bulk-purchasing homes from under the feet of struggling home buyers.

The Mayo TD was speaking after the Department of Finance released figures to Sinn Fein showing that over 1,200 homes have been snapped up by funds since the governments increased stamp duty was introduced.

Deputy Conway-Walsh said: This week the Dail will vote on our motion to tackle the unacceptable practice of investment funds snapping up family homes.

The purchase of 46 family homes at Belcamp Manor in Balgriffin in Dublin by an investment fund is another blow to struggling first time buyers.

Figures released to Sinn Fein by the Department of Finance show that since the governments half-baked measures were introduced, over 1,200 homes have been snapped up by these funds.

These are more than 1,200 homes that should have been available to workers and families to buy.

Last year alone, over 620 homes were bought from under struggling home buyers.

Unless Sinn Feins proposals to stop this are introduced, funds will continue to snap up homes that should be available for workers and families to buy."
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.
READING, Pa. - The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) board of directors announced Monday that it has named a new president and CEO.

Former Berks County commissioner Lucine Sihelnik will take the helm and assume responsibility for leading Berks Countys premier business resource. She takes over for Jim Gerlach, who retired at the end of last year.

Chamber officials say responsibilities include facilitating new and existing business expansion, project funding, redevelopment, business-to-business promotion, advocacy and workforce development.

We are thrilled to have Lucine accept this leadership role at such an important time in our community. Lucines history of public service, high integrity, and ability to work with a wide variety of constituencies in our community will serve her and our community well in the years ahead, said board chair Jeff Rush.

Most recently, Sihelnik was appointed to a one-year term as a Berks County commissioner after Kevin Barnhardt stepped down to accept the job as the countys new chief operations officer.

Before that, she served a full term on Reading City Council and was the first female president of the Berks Agricultural Resource Network. She is a past president of the Friends of Reading Hospital and a Trustee of Alvernia University.

As co-owner of the Great American Creamery in Reading with her husband, and 20 years focused on community and economic development through her consulting platform Gayatri Wellness, officials with the chamber say Sihelnik is uniquely positioned to bring her small business insight to the organization.

I believe in a strong vision where Greater Reading fulfills the best version of itself; we are positioned to create a vibrant economic ecosystem where Berks becomes the best place to live, work, learn, play and grow, said Sihelnik.

GRCA chose Sihelnik with the help of Herbein HR Consulting.
LEHIGH TWP., Pa.  Two firefighters and two residents were taken to the hospital after a fire tore through a home in Northampton County on Sunday afternoon.

The Lehigh Township Fire Department said firefighters were dispatched just after 1 p.m.

"I just got a new puppy and she was at the window barking," said Sean Deibert, a neighbor.

He said he then went to the window of his home and looked across Heritage Lane.

"I look out the window and the tree's in flames," said Deibert.

A fire broke out at his neighbor's home.

"We arrived on scene. We found the first half, front half of the house well-involved and we had two victims taken to the hospital," said Assistant Fire Chief Brian Krische, of the Lehigh Township Fire Department.

Krische said two people from the home were taken to the hospital. One had smoke inhalation. It's not clear what injuries the other person had.

The fire department said two firefighters were treated for injuries at the hospital and released.

"The first units got here in about six minutes and all of the additional units followed," said Krische.

He said a lot of the fire spread rapidly before units arrived.

Krische said around 10 departments were brought in.

"We have mutual aid agreements with different departments outside of the county. The county line is right here," said Assistant Chief Krische.

"I mean you don't realize until it hits home, you know your neighbor's house goes up in flames. It's a scary thing," said Deibert.

The fire department said two dogs died. There is no word at this time on the conditions of the two residents who were taken to the hospital.

A GoFundme can be found here.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Bethlehem Parking Authority wants to encourage people to explore the city for lunch and shopping.

The BPA is running a "First Hour Free" garage parking promotion, where drivers automatically get one hour of parking free at garages in the SouthSide Arts District and on Historic Bethlehem's Main and Broad streets.

The discount applies to the North Street Garage, Polk Street Garage or New Street Garage, for those who enter the garage between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The promotion runs from Monday, Jan. 22 through March 31.

Drivers will automatically get a one-hour deduction from their bill when they leave the garage if the parking session is started between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., the BPA says.
Lower Saucon Township is looking for its second solicitor so far this year.

Township Council will meet Wednesday to vote on appointing Goudsouzian and Associates, with Steven N. Goudsouzian as principal, as interim solicitor for 2024 at $180 per hour. Goudsouzian and Associates is a law firm in Palmer Township.

Council did not reappoint longtime adviser Lincoln Treadwell as solicitor at its first meeting of 2024. The township's website lists attorney Mark L. Freed of Curtin & Heefner, Doylestown, as its current solicitor.

If Goudsouzian is appointed Wednesday, he will be No. 3 and it will only be Jan. 24.

The balance of power in Lower Saucon shifted to the Democrats this year, with council veteran Priscilla deLeon as president, joined by new members Victoria Opthof-Cordaro and Laura Ray. Republicans Jason Banonis and Thomas Carocci round out the five-member board.

The new Democrat majority ran based on opposition to the Bethlehem Landfill, which is in the township and provides about a quarter of Lower Saucon's municipal revenue.

The council may have a new look, but the divisions and arguments from the past remain. At a Jan. 17 meeting, a resident asked council to "stop the horrid atmosphere."

Lower Saucon Council will meet for what it describes as a "special," or not regularly scheduled, meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, in the municipal building at 3700 Old Philadelphia Pike.

The solicitor vote is the only significant item on Wednesday's agenda.
Community members are rallying around a kitten rescue operation in North Whitehall Township that officials recently determined violated local zoning.

A rally and bake sale to benefit Foxy's Cradle Neonatal Kitten Rescue was held Sunday afternoon at Friedens Fire Company.

The goal is to raise money for the non-profit rescue to challenge a decision by the township zoning board last month that designated the home-run rescue as a kennel use not allowed by zoning.

Money raised Sunday goes toward preparing the legal appeal to the township supervisors.

Those involved with Foxy's Cradle says it is crucial to keep the operation going  most notably continuing the use of life-saving incubators for kittens just born.
S. WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. - The Parkland School District has completed the purchase of a property near Cetronia Elementary School that was once proposed for a sober living facility.

The district paid $617,400 for 3599 Broadway, the former Trexler Manor nursing home, according to Lehigh County property records. Parkland has no immediate plans for the property, the district said Monday.

The district acquired the property from Moyer Construction, which bought the property for $500,000 in 2022, county records say.

Moyer Construction had proposed using the site as a recovery house for people fighting drug or alcohol addiction. South Whitehall's zoning hearing board rejected that plan last year, saying that use did not meet the definition of an assisted-living facility, the former use of the property.

Moyer argued that the company's plan was "similar in character and impact to the permitted use of an assisted living facility," while the township and the school district maintained that a "sober living facility" did not meet the legal definition of an assisted-living home.

Some township residents objected to having a recovery house near Cetronia Elementary School.

After Moyer Construction's plan was rejected, the school district agreed to buy the property. The old Trexler Park Manor property includes a 3,124-square-foot building on 1.66 acres.

The Parkland School District covers 72 square miles in Lehigh County and serves almost 10,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade, according to the district website. Its 2023-24 budget is $230 million.
EASTON, Pa. - State Representative Bob Freeman (D-Northampton County) has announced he is running for re-election as the State Representative for the 136th state House District.

According to the House of Representatives website, Freeman has been a member of the house from 1983-94, 1999 to date.

According to a media release from the Office of Bob Freeman, he is a leader in environmental protection, preserving farmland and is focused on the revitalization of older urban areas.

Throughout my public service I have dedicated myself to representing the needs and concerns of everyday people of Pennsylvania who dont have some powerful monied lobby to look out for their interests, Freeman said. My record is one of fighting for working families, senior citizens, consumers, and our environment. And, Ive been a consistent advocate for reform in Harrisburg to make state government more accountable and transparent.

Freeman continued to say "I will continue to work to promote economic opportunity, address pressing environmental issues, promote adequate funding for public education, expand health care coverage, and promote open space preservation and smart growth planning practices to empower communities to better manage growth to control their destiny and to have the tools to mitigate the effects of large warehouse development."

Freeman serves as the Democratic Majority Chairman of the House Local Government Committee.

In addition, he serves on the bicameral, bipartisan Local Government Commission and is a member of the State Planning Board.

Freeman is a lifelong resident of the 136th District. He is a graduate of Easton Area High School, Moravian College and earned his MA at Lehigh University.

The 136th District is comprised of the City of Easton, the boroughs of Freemansburg, Glendon, Hellertown, West Easton, and Wilson and the eastern portion of Lower Saucon Township, the southern part of Palmer Township, and Williams Township.
PALMYRA, Pa. (AP) - Three people died and three others were injured in an early morning fire at a home in east-central Pennsylvania on Sunday, authorities said.

Officials in Lebanon County said crews were dispatched just after 1:30 a.m. to the home in North Londonberry Township near Palmyra.

Three people were pronounced dead at Hershey Medical Center, and three others were also taken there with injuries, said Chief Kevin Snyder of the North Londonderry Township police department. There was no immediate word on the conditions of the injured.

Multiple fire crews battled the flames for hours and had to pump in water due to the lack of hydrants in the immediate area, WHTM-TV reported.

The state police fire marshals office was investigating the cause of the fire, Snyder said.

The identities of the victims weren't immediately released by the Dauphin County coroner's office.

Neighbors took in at least two pets firefighters found at the home, WHTM-TV reported.
Mory Sacko poses in his new restaurant, Lafayette, located in the former palace of the Marquis de La Fayette, a French aristocrat, military officer and politician who was instrumental in the American and French revolutions. The Pompadour Room is decorated with a contemporary Hans Hartung piece and the work Dame de qualite from the Kraemer Gallery. A lamp designed by Lazaro Rosa-Violan is in the center.

In 2020, the name of a restaurant, Mosuke, began to circulate among Paris gourmets, along with that of its chef, Mory Sacko; word spread of his age, 27, and his origins, Senegal and Mali, which are infused in his dishes. Months later, Mosuke received a Michelin star. When it became impossible to dine there without making a reservation seven months in advance, Mory Sacko, now 31, became a regular on the France Info radio station and on the television program Cuisine Ouverte. His self-confidence, 62 frame, ability to harmonize French-African and Japanese traditions, extraordinary friendliness and contagious smile came across over the airwaves and on the TV screen with such naturalness that he won over the whole city. In 2022 he opened Mosugo, a restaurant with a more affordable and spontaneous menu, the centerpiece of which was fried chicken in different versions, with nods to Africa and a genuine connection to young people, who have increased the chefs visibility even more. Last September, Time magazine dedicated its cover to him, an honor that had been bestowed on only two French chefs until then: Michel Guerard, in 1974, and Alain Ducasse, in 2001.

Mory Sacko poses in his new restaurant, Lafayette, which is located in the former palace of the Marquis de La Fayette, a French aristocrat, military officer and politician who was instrumental in the American and French revolutions. Lea Crespi

Considered a model of entrepreneurship, Sackos story is one of true creative ascent. Born in Champigny-sur-Marne, France, to a Malian father who worked in construction and a Senegalese mother who was a domestic worker, Sacko was the seventh of nine siblings. He grew up in the suburbs of Paris, and his interest in cooking stemmed from the boisterous dinners at which the familys nine children gathered around their mothers hot and spicy food. Those dishes, which have been passed down orally from generation to generation, form the basis of Sackos French cuisine with Japanese and Senegalese influences.

Now, at the height of his popularity, he is opening Lafayette, a restaurant located on Rue d Anjou, next to the Madeleine. The hotel entrepreneur Benjamin Patou (the ideologist and promoter) and the interior designer Lazaro Rosa-Violan have joined Sacko on this adventure. As if that were not enough, the restaurant is located in the hotel particulier once inhabited by the Marquis de La Fayette, a French aristocrat, military man and politician who played a key role in the American and French revolutions. He fought in the American War of Independence with such determination that he became George Washingtons trusted general. His return to Paris coincided with the storming of the Bastille. He was too soft for the Jacobins and too revolutionary for the royalists. In 1790, the rebellious marquis helped to organize the July 14 feast in honor of the revolution, swore allegiance to the nation and wrote his friend with the famous line I reign in Paris; he was an exemplary Parisian who had returned to his palace to celebrate.

One of the poufs Lazaro Rosa-Violan designed for Mory Sacko. Lea Crespi

Lafayette the restaurant has just opened in that same mansion. Mory Sacko arrives looking like a symbol of todays France. His body language, outfit and smile convey his undeniable optimism. A 300-year-old mansion and 100 diners a night await his creativity. Sacko received his training in haute cuisine from masters like Thierry Marx. He is the first chef of Senegalese descent to earn a Michelin star; those same roots heavily influence his cuisine. Responsibility, pride, pleasure are concepts present in his daily life: Pride because its nice to celebrate my French identity alongside my African origins and my passion for Japan, which entered my life through manga characters and [whose cuisine] is absolutely the opposite of my mothers cooking. Raw fish? cold rice? She says to me: Can you eat that?... at the same time, it is a responsibility because behind the cuisine, there is a cultural ambassador and that must be respected.

Rosa-Violan at the entrance of the restaurant, photographed in front of a 17th-century boiserie mural with references to the Silk Road. Lea Crespi

Between triumphs and expectations, Sacko admits: I never could have imagined this acclaim, I just wanted to open a restaurant and have fun. Im not the typical chef who made cakes with his grandmother as a child; I dont remember going into a kitchen until I was 15... and if I did, my mother would throw me out... Thats one of the few routines that remains in Sackos life. With his ever-present smile, he admits that his mother still shoos him away: Shes very classic, she doesnt trust me, but they feel immense pride.

Sacko has achieved so much in such a short time that one wonders if it was necessary to embark on such an ambitious project: Yes, because I need to move away from what I know. Mosuke is introspective; with Lafayette, I can open myself to the outside. The emotion is conveyed differently: this is Parisian bistro inspiration and African inspiration. There are totems of African cuisine, like the braised rooster with mafe sauce and the fermented cassava soup with fish, as well as American inspiration in tribute to Lafayette, as reflected in the savory waffle with lobster.

The Lafayette restaurant pantry, the room closest to the kitchen, where Sacko has his own kitchen table. Lea Crespi

His vitality shaped in the past and his permanent curiosity about the future prompt Sacko to mention the importance of memory in cuisine. Im honoring a continent, but more specifically Im honoring the memory of my mother, a woman who was born in the Ivory Coast, who left for Mali, who grew up in Senegal... it is her taste that I am after, and that is why I intend to share the emotion I have experienced in her dishes.

Celebrated interior designer Lazaro Rosa-Violan is also seeking something among the tables, flowers and cables. He extends a greeting as he puts the finishing touches on the set-up with the help of his partner, fashion designer Mariano Moreno. Walking next to him, one sees mirrors that encourage mischief, embroidered fabrics, Angora wool, a clock from the La Fayette period, sanctum curtains, upholstery with French overtones and a warm, flamboyant atmosphere.

Benjamin Patou, in front of a painting by Sonia Delaunay from his private collection. Patou is the founder and CEO of the Moma group. "My mission is to create human adventures and bring together talent. Lazaro and Mory are two juggernauts in this exceptional place," he says. Lea Crespi

The natural treatment of things makes one feel like one has slipped into a scene by Fragonard. It cant be easy to recreate such an exuberant world full of so much truth: We had to connect these two worlds, that of Morys cuisine, which is so exotic, and that of overseas France and Lafayette, the designer says. Rooms with names like Pompadour, Salle dArmes and the pantry itself convey a romanticism peppered with contemporary touches. Im seeking to recreate a classic by experimenting with chromaticism. There are paintings from Benjamin Patous private collection alongside classic pieces from the Kraemer gallery. Rosa-Violan has expertly created the macaron chair, the cannele chair and the medallion chair. The important thing is to create a unique experience. Exotic doesnt have to be tropical. I didnt want to be literal in recreating the 18th century, I wanted [to capture] the essence. Both the lamps of his own design and the candles (each one in its own lantern) reveal the importance Lazaro attaches to lighting, and he repeats a phrase that seems to haunt him: Yes, a well-lit garage is better than a palace with fluorescent lights.

A decorative detail in the Lafayette restaurant. Lea Crespi

Illuminated by the spotlights and flashes from the photographs being taken of Mory Sacko, Benjamin Patou, 46, shows up, waving every now and then. When he understands that the hubbub is the result of the instructions that have been given to the waitstaff, he turns around and asks: Guys, how does it feel to work in the best restaurant in the world? Patou laughs in a very relaxed manner and does not hide his pride at coordinating this project. He is charismatic, and he knows it. With a keen sense of hospitality, he has built an empire of 40 restaurants at the forefront of festive dining in Paris, Saint-Tropez and Biarritz. The founder and CEO of the Moma group, Patou explains his role here: My mission is to create human adventures and bring together talent. Lazaro and Mory are two juggernauts in this exceptional place.

Patou asks how that photo shoot is going. Ah, first one by one, then the three of us together, daccord. When the session begins, he adjusts his jacket and asks no one in particular: Am I handsome? A chorus of female voices responds in unison behind the camera, Tres beau. Patou drinks sparkling water. When asked what is so special about this project, he says: Oh, la, la, la... to start with, [its] location [is] unique in the world. To be able to go into the history of the building and its illustrious occupant and to understand what it represented, it was worldly and social, chez La Fayette was known all over France!

Flowers are a key element of the restaurant's interior. Lea Crespi

Of meeting Sacko, he says: I admire Mory, his cuisine, his identity and his values. When restoring this maison historique, I thought that a French chef like him, with his origins, would interpret the frontier concept of French cuisine better than anyone else and could represent Lafayettes sojourns in the USA in his dishes, making this place different from everything else.

According to Patou, what sets a restaurant apart is its ambition. If I were a tourist I would be overpowered by this beauty. Here you get access to Morys brand at a good price. This is brasserie, this is cool, festive, cocktail, tac-tac, musique... La Fayette had vision and convictions, he was a defender of freedom. He is a symbol. And symbols are very important in life.
The butterfly effect of the largest cyberattack ever suffered by a public library flutters in London, bounces in Melbourne and explodes in Rome. This is what Flavia Marcello, a professor of architectural history at the Swinburne University of Technology, has felt. Marcello is an Australian citizen of Italian descent who is married to a British national and who, like the bears, travels to the capital of the United Kingdom for one month every year to fill herself with knowledge and hibernate and digest it for the rest of the year.

This time it has been different, though. My friends had already warned me about the tragedy at the British Library (BL), so I decided to put aside my subject of study and focus on other topics. Most of the time I have been working in the archives of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Marcello explains to EL PAIS.

On October 31, officials at the British public library admitted for the first time that the institution had suffered a devastating computer attack. Its online catalog, with nearly 36 million books and up to 170 million items, including documents and historical objects, had been completely destroyed. The access system for readers and researchers had been rendered unusable.

Extortion attempt

Rhysida, a ransomware group, claimed responsibility for the attack. This group has already carried out similar attacks against educational, health and government institutions. They even managed to hack the Chilean army. The British media has indicated that the amount claimed from the BL was around $760,000.

A crude attempt at extortion is how Roly Keating, executive director of the library, defined it in a blogpost. Our experience of the past two months has highlighted a great paradox for knowledge institutions in the digital age, wrote Keating. Our deep commitment to openness, access and discovery means that we fully embrace the amazing possibilities that technology enables; while as custodians of our collections we also face an ever-increasing challenge in keeping our digital heritage safe from attack.

Illumination of a book by the doctor Aldebrandin of Sienna (13th century), which is part of the collection of the British Library. British Library / Getty Images

The efforts at protection have had little success, the attack evidenced. For almost three months, BL users have not been able to access their digital services, nor have they even been able to use the catalog so that library staff could get them the books they needed. As a result, research and study projects have been placed on hold, due to users inability to properly prepare for talks and presentations.

I am a regular reader, and I need to come often to prepare my talks and classes, explains William White, a history professor at the University of Hertfordshire who specializes in 17th-century Britain. With the usual system, you requested the material from the office or from home through the BL website, and they promised to have it ready within a maximum period of 70 minutes, he says.

Many of these books and documents are precious. The library has reading rooms that can only be accessed with an accredited pass, once all personal belongings have been deposited in a transparent bag to avoid damage or theft.

Only since last Monday has some normality been restored. Users can consult the catalog of works again in the same building, and the BL staff will search for items, but these cannot be ordered for use from outside the premises. And the material archived at the Boston Spa headquarters in Yorkshire (in northern England) cannot yet be requested.

The London library building, in Kings Cross, was in its day the largest construction in terms of volume carried out in the city in the 20th century. It soon proved insufficient, however. The addition of Boston Spa, 200 miles away, alleviated the lack of space. More akin to an Amazon logistics warehouse than a symbolic building, its 746 kilometers of shelves and its robotic system for finding books, documents and objects relieved the pressure that researchers and scholars from all over the world exerted on the British Library.

Italian snipers

Marcello is a specialist in Italian architecture of the countrys fascist period. Her latest obsession is the statue dedicated to the bersaglieri in the Roman square of Porta Pia. Bersagliere means sharpshooter. They made up an infantry unit that deployed quickly, rode bicycles and wore wide-brimmed hats with grouse feathers. Worshiped as a symbol of the feat of Italian unification, the dictator Benito Mussolini sponsored this statue that is so beloved by the people of Rome. Something similar must have happened in Spain with Francos monuments, right? asks this specialist. It is incredible the number of books and documents on the bersaglieri that the Department of History and Humanities of the BL has got. Thats why I was very interested in coming this year, but Im almost ready to return to Australia. Do you know that they even keep one of the first copies of the Bersagliere March on hand? she says, humming the military anthem. The bad thing is that you have to travel to Boston Spa to see it.

Beginning of the eleventh scene of the second act of 'Orlando' in the manuscript by George Frideric Handel (1732), preserved in the British Library. THE BRITISH LIBRARY

Patent documents, stamps, musical recordings, maps, musical scores, newspapers, magazines, diaries, film scripts, photographs, letters... The BLs collections are not limited to books. Much of that material had been digitalized for easy access. Today, for the moment, it remains out of the reach of researchers.

The library also houses a Jane Austen desk, a Beethoven tuning fork, one of the first copies of Homers Iliad, and the manuscript with lyrics of the Beatles Yesterday.

Personal and economic damages

A month after its attack, the Rhysida ransomware group began releasing personal data of BL workers and its users on the dark web, which can only be accessed with specialized browsers, after realizing that the library was refusing to pay the ransom.

Library officials contacted their partners and researchers by email to warn them of the situation. But the damage to the system has been enormous, and it couldnt even make it easier for users to change their password.

Meanwhile, nearly 20,000 authors, whose works are part of the librarys collection, had been receiving 13 pence each time a user borrowed one of their books, up to a maximum of about $8,400 per year. Payments have been suspended while system repairs continue.

The Financial Times has suggested that the return to normality will cost around 7m ($8.9 million), although the director of the BL has indicated that it is still too early to make that calculation. While online services are slowly returning, the London Metropolitan Police and the National Cyber Security Center are investigating an attack that has significantly damaged the prestige of the institution, and has become a serious warning for public libraries around the world.
Marie Jalowicz, a Jewish Berliner who was 11 years old when Adolf Hitler rose to power in 1933, had never recounted her Holocaust survival story. After the war she enrolled in university, got married and had two children, and had a successful academic career as a professor of philosophy at the Humboldt University in Berlin. For fifty years she sparingly divulged any details to her family.

When she was in her 70s, one day her son Hermann placed a tape recorder on the dining room table without warning and Marie began to recount her story. In chronological order, she spoke of her memories, those of a teenager who endured hardship as a forced laborer at Siemens, escaping the wrath of the Gestapo, offering her body in exchange for shelter, suffering from the cold and hunger. Ultimately, she was trying to survive clandestinely in the heart of Berlin, the hub of the terrifying Third Reich regime, up until 1945, when the Allies defeated Nazi Germany.

I didnt know how she would react. She was a difficult woman to handle, there was a yes or no, in between there was nothing. I told her that I had always wanted to tell her story. And she surprised me by asking, Where do I start? I told her from the beginning, and she did, recalls her son, Hermann Simon, now a 74-year-old historian. Those sessions, which began on December 26, 1997, produced 77 cassettes (900 transcribed pages), hours and hours of recordings that Jalowicz took as if it were a comprehensive master class. They lasted 60 or 90 minutes, and had a beginning and an end. You only get to do something like that once in a lifetime, says Simon, who is still in awe, in a coffee shop in the Prenzlauer Berg district, very close to the New Synagogue in Berlin.

The last of the tapes was recorded in the hospital, a few days before Jalowiczs death in 1998. This gave her time to chronicle the incredible story of how a 19-year-old girl in 1941 resolved to survive and attempted to do so by hiding in the wolfs den of Nazi terror. Simon spent 15 years working on the contents of the tapes. He verified names, dates, places and facts. He is still astounded by the accuracy of his mothers account, how she was able to retain all the information for decades with only her memory to rely on.

Hermann Simon, at the entrance to the New Synagogue in Berlin, in July. Patricia Sevilla Ciordia

When Jalowiczs story first saw the light of day in Germany in 2014, it blew away critics and readers. Many survivor accounts had been published, but none like this one. None of them could match the story of how a young Jewish girl had gone into hiding and managed not to be discovered in Berlin until the end of the war. This dispassionate, raw style, with no willingness to be stylistic, but purely documentary, was not customary, which above all, as Simon stresses, was so honest.

The shortened and edited version of Jalowiczs recordings, put together with the help of the author Irene Stratenwerth, spares no details whatsoever, not even the most intimate ones. We did not want to leave anything out, confirms the historian. Her memoirs are entitled Underground in Berlin.

A photograph of Marie Jalowicz, circa 1944, courtesy of her son Hermann Simon. @Hermann Simon

Jalowiczs story is primarily a tale of survival. The daughter of an educated middle-class family, at the age of 15 she lost her mother to cancer and at 17 she was recruited as a forced laborer in a Siemens factory. There she participated in small production sabotages together with other workers and supervisors, and for the first time described how many Germans opposed the Nazis. In the story, there are no good guys or bad guys, but people with different ambiguities who behave well or badly depending on the circumstances. She recounts what the German foreman Max Schulz told them: My parish priest says that the Nazis are the biggest criminals in the history of mankind.

In 1941, plagued by antisemitic restrictions, Maries father passed away and she decided to leave the factory. She asked her boss to let her go. She knew, or sensed, that the persecution of the Jews could only get worse. Why do you want to leave here? she was asked. I want to save myself, responded Jalowicz. What do you intend to do alone? Out there alone on the frozen wasteland. I prefer the frozen wasteland and I prefer to be alone because I can see where this is all going to end. They will deport us, and that will be the end for all of us. More than 160,000 Jews were living in Berlin in 1933; by the end of the war, only 5,100 remained, according to the book Jews in Berlin, co-edited by Simon.

Maries ordeal crossed a point of no return in June 1942, when she escaped from a Gestapo couple who were going to arrest her and she went into hiding. She removed her yellow star and remained below the surface of everyday life in the big city, with the constant fear of being discovered while hiding in the dark. In the three years she spent in hiding from the Nazi authorities, she moved house almost 20 times. Communists, trade unionists, opponents of the regime, and even fanatical Nazis took her in or helped her. Some knew who she was, others had suspicions. Those Nazis, who boasted of being able to spot a Jew from a distance, were also fooled.

Marie Jalowicz Simon in 1988, in a photograph provided by her son. @Hermann Simon

Through these experiences, Jalowiczs reflections paint a vivid picture of Berlins diverse society under Nazi rule. Not only of the merchants, doctors and intellectuals who comprised her immediate environment, but also of workers, domestic servants, immigrants and social outcasts. Unlike other clandestine individuals, such as Anne Frank, the young Jalowicz was constantly on the move in the city. She took public transportation, walked, waited in rationing queues for those who sheltered her.

On one occasion, while waiting for a new place to sleep, she was forced to spend the night out wandering around Berlin. And when her physiological needs called, she describes how she snuck into a small bourgeois building in the southeast of the city. When I found a plaque with a name that I disliked and that sounded Nazi-like, I squatted down and did my business. What would those people think when they discovered the little gift on the doormat in the morning?

The importance of fortune

Her memories evoke moments of sheer rawness, such as when she is forced to offer her body to protect herself. She recounts it like a person describing what she had for breakfast in the morning. She equally does not sidestep the widespread rape depicted in A Woman in Berlin, the chilling anonymous text that recounts how women became victims of the Soviet troops who entered Berlin at the end of World War II. It happened to me too, of course I was visited at night by a stocky, friendly guy named Ivan Dedoborez. I didnt care much for him. Then he wrote a note in pencil and left it on my door: that was his girlfriend over there and I should be left alone. And afterward they never bothered me again.

Her determination and willpower compelled her to salvation, but Jalowicz always stressed the importance of pure luck, as she recalled in a 1993 speech. The survival of each individual who remained in hiding was built on a concatenation of events that is often beyond belief and can be called miraculous.

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This photo taken on Jan. 10, 2024 shows Yang Qinfeng's signature "Happy New Year" cake at his studio in Liantang Town of Qingpu District of Shanghai, east China. Zhuang Rice Cake, made with sticky rice and polished round-grained rice, is a representative of Liantang Rice Cake, whose making craft has been listed as an intangible cultural heritage of Qingpu District in Shanghai.

In the hearts of local people, the cake is not only a must-have during the lunar new year, but also a hometown snack reminding them where they come from.

Yang Qinfeng, 43, is the fourth generation inheritor of the making craft of Zhuang Rice Cake. His great grandfather, once making a living on the sales of the cakes, passed down the craft in his family.

Once working as an architecture designer in the city of Shanghai, Yang missed his life in the countryside and returned to his hometown in 2012 to start his own business.

Based on the traditional making technique from his great grandfather, Yang set up his own brand and studio. He often holds various experience events, in an effort to bring the traditional food back to the tables of modern people.

With the approaching of the Spring Festival, his signature "Happy New Year" cake once again becomes a hot snack for the beautiful meaning it conveys. [Xinhua/Liu Ying]
It has happened again. A female-led production has suffered so-called review bombing. The practice involves a group of people on social media who agree to leave a barrage of negative reviews of an audiovisual product on the main review aggregation websites that allow opinions from viewers. The motivation is always the same: rejection of the inclusion of characters who are female, members of the LGBTQ+ community, or any race other than white. That is, when a certain reactionary sector suspects that what it calls woke culture has sunk its claws into a product that was just fine when it was all white, male, and heterosexual.

The victim this time is the fourth season of True Detective (True Detective: Night Country, available on HBO Max) released worldwide last Sunday. The attack was so furious that it led its Mexican director Issa Lopez to post a message on X, formerly Twitter: If you liked last nights episode and you have a Rotten Tomatoes account, could you go there and leave a review? The bros and the fandom of the first season have decided to reduce the rating, and it is a little sad considering all the 5-star ratings we have.

On Rotten Tomatoes, ratings from professional critics and the wider audience are combined to give an overall score. And while the former gave the series 93% positive reviews, audience ratings barely exceeded 50%. Right now it remains around 70%. It is not unusual that both groups have differing opinions of the same product (the audience tends to opt for lighter subjects), but common elements in the comments suggest a movement that is not very spontaneous. For example, the assertion that there are too many girl bosses, that is, women with power.

Too many girl bosses wrote one viewer. I wish they had focused on telling a good story, instead of being distracted by girl bossing, wrote another. The list is endless and always points in the same direction: This is woke and you can see this problem during the sixty minutes of the first episode, Stop shoving your message in our faces, Another franchise that makes the man evil!, I dont know whose idea it was to let Hannah Gadsby write this season (Hannah Gadsby is a lesbian comedian), and Almost everyone is a lesbian!

Jodie Foster and Kali Reis hunt for a killer in 'True Detective: Night Country.' HBO Max

In fact, there is only one lesbian, and she is a teenager who only appears on-screen for a few minutes. But for those bros that Lopez referred to, the term lesbian is used to criticize any fictional female character who does not conform to traditional notions of femininity and does not remain in the background.

Lopez later deleted the comment and replaced it with a kinder one, celebrating that the ratings had gone up since she published her first message. She also apologized for making an unfair generalization, and added that there were many straight guys and fans of the first season who loved this fourth season and had left positive reviews. She has since deleted that comment as well.

But who is a bro?

In any case, the complaint was made and the debate has been opened. Who exactly are the bros Lopez was referring to? Journalist Ann Friedman defined them in 2013: Bro has become shorthand for the kind of privileged ignorance that thrives in groups dominated by rich, white, heterosexual men, she wrote in an article in New York Magazine. Bro evokes a particular type of man who operates socially by excluding those who are different. Eleven years later, that definition is still valid.

And what is the problem with the fandom (that is, the most loyal and staunch followers) of the first season, whom Lopez also refers to? Lets put it into context: True Detective is an anthology series, and each of its four seasons deals with a new case with different characters. And it is now in its fourth season. While the second and especially the third went largely unnoticed, the first, written by Nic Pizzolatto and directed by Cary Fukunaga, instantly gained cult status. This is the first key element: while that series starred two men (Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson), in the current iteration, the investigation is led by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, an Oscar-winning actress and a professional boxer, respectively. Moreover, they play two strong, tenacious, and not very accommodating female characters.

Woody Harrelson and Matthew McCounaghey in the first season of 'True Detective' (2014). HBO

In the first episode, the only one that has been released so far, Foster is a police chief who has no problem censuring the behavior of a subordinate who has just bought a Russian mail order bride. We also see Reis support an abused woman in front of her abuser and call the shots in a sexual relationship with a man who seems to want more than just sex with her. They are tough in their personal lives and brilliant in their work. These are traits that would probably be universally welcomed if they were male characters. And there is a second key element: in the lionized first season, female roles were reduced to a long-suffering wife, prostitutes, or corpses, and in almost all cases their common denominator was being scantily clad.

It reeks of macho nonsense, New Yorker critic Emily Nussbaum wrote in 2014. Every live woman they meet is paper-thin. [There are] none with any interior life. She also had words for the idolized protagonist Rust, played by McConaughey, whom she described as a macho fantasy straight out of a Carlos Castaneda book.

If in 2014 it already raised some eyebrows, looking back from 2024  in the wake of the #MeToo revolution in which the womens representation in audiovisual media has been reexamined, and their presence in the writers rooms has increased  the first season of True Detective seems like a parody of masculinity. Watching it again in 2024 makes the total absence of important female characters astonishing. In a police station where there are at least a dozen officers, there is only one woman: the secretary who answers the phone. In the entire season there is not a single woman with even the tiniest amount of authority, everything is cooked up by the bros. Needless to say, there is no LGBTQ+ presence either, and the other characters are all predominantly white, even though the series is set in Louisiana! The only African-American characters are a couple of annoying agents who try to judge Rusts attitude.

A long list of victims

The fourth season of True Detective is just one more in the long list of productions boycotted by angry viewers, and the reasons that bother them are varied. A year ago the victim was another HBO Max series, The Last of Us. The third episode, Long, long time, which reflected a romantic relationship between two men, saw its negative ratings multiply one hundred percent compared to the previous episode, and it received a score of 4.8 out of 10 on Metacritic, while the first two episodes had bordered on outstanding. It literally has nothing to do with the plot of the series, complained far-right commentator Ben Shapiro, despite acknowledging that he has never played the video game. If he had done so, he would have known that this storyline already existed in the original video game. One of his embarrassing comments on Twitter was met with a celebrated response from Nick Offerman, who played one of the two lovers. Buddy, your brand of ignorance and hate is exactly why we make stories like this.

The inclusion of female and non-white characters in The Last Jedi caused a real commotion in the Star Wars universe. Viewers used negative ratings to protest the inclusion of Asian-American actress Kelly Marie Tran as Rose Tico in the film. The personal attacks were so verbally violent that the actress closed her social media accounts. The all-female reboot of Ghostbusters is another case in point. There were those who accused the 2016 version of stealing their childhood simply because the protagonists were women. The 2021 version, a crude copy of Stranger Things with no resemblance to the original, passed under the bro radar: there were not enough women in authority to make it hateful in their eyes. Ms. Marvel (2022) where the protagonist was also Pakistani, and She-Hulk (2022) were lambasted before being released.

When Captain Marvel (2019) suffered from review bombing with such intensity, Rotten Tomatoes changed its way of scoring by resorting to verified ratings. The company was aware that they have a problem with this kind of hateful mobbing. They require reviewers to provide proof that they have seen the film before reviewing it, but it only works with tickets purchased online and is not required for television series.

For now, these measures have not managed to stop the phenomenon. Last year the production that bombed was The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. And not because of its weak script, but because of the representation of Galadriel, who was considered too warlike and unspiritual, as well as the presence of Black elves. Racism is another head on the review bombing hydra: the live-action version of The Little Mermaid (2023) was also attacked before its release and caused IMDb, the major movie database, to move to a weighted system to balance one-star reviews.

Beyond the screens

It is not a phenomenon that is exclusive phenomenon to audiovisual media. Its presence is felt even in literature. Last summer, five hundred users of Goodreads, the book recommendation website, mobilized to leave single star ratings to the novel The Snow Forest, by Elizabeth Gilbert, which had not even been published. They accused her of romanticizing Russia. Although the fiction was set in the 19th century, the hostility aroused by the invasion of Ukraine caused its release to be postponed.

The writer and journalist Noelia Ramirez wondered in an article: Is the cult of scoring and ranking all the culture we consume getting out of hand? Of course. And not just what we consume culturally. We have already become accustomed to clicking on the smiling faces that encourage us to evaluate stores and rate their sellers, to the mild desperation that we sense in the call center employees who let us know that we will soon receive a survey to rate their service, to the misleading ratings on restaurant portals motivated many times by personal revenge, or fake reviews that have been paid for or that are generated by artificial intelligence.

Where does it all end? There is a pack of toilet paper rolls from a famous brand available on Amazon that has 10,437 reviews. Some are devastating one-star reviews. Maybe we have scored too much.

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A Chinese teacher speaks in a lesson for local Ethiopian teachers at the Addis Ababa University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 18, 2024. A four-day training program, starting Wednesday, is held at Addis Ababa University (AAU) to promote the local teachers' capabilities in mastering the four important aspects of teaching Chinese: grammar, phonetics, vocabulary and characters, according to Gao Lili, the director of the Confucius Institute at AAU. [Xinhua/Michael Tewelde]



ADDIS ABABA, Jan. 19 (Xinhua)  In the bustling classrooms of special boarding schools across Ethiopia's Oromia region, local Chinese language teachers are engaged in an exciting educational journey, harnessing the power of language to bridge cultures.

Fitsum Mussa, who studied Chinese language at Dalian University in China, is one of the pioneer local Chinese language teachers playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of their students while fostering stronger cultural connections between Ethiopia and China.

Over the past two years, Mussa has taught Chinese to more than 250 students at Arsi Special Boarding School, one of nine special secondary schools in the Oromia region. Here, students voluntarily choose from Chinese, Arabic and French, in addition to English, as their preferred foreign language studies.

"I remember the innovative ways that our Chinese teachers used to boost our interaction and learning capabilities during our early days learning the language. The first steps were relatively difficult until we were eventually able to better interact and communicate with our teachers," Mussa recalled. "Now, these school children are learning Chinese with the help of their mother tongue, Afan Oromo. This makes the teaching-learning process much easier for them, and I find it significantly constructive for their language acquisition."

Courtesy of deepening Sino-Ethiopian ties, interest in studying the Chinese language is growing fast among Ethiopians, particularly the country's youth.

Seyoum Kebede, head of the special schools development division at the Oromia education bureau, said the Chinese language is the most desired language among students, with over 1,230 secondary school students choosing Chinese as their preferred foreign language study.

"Our Ethiopian Chinese language teachers, who have mastered the language with the help of Chinese instructors, are tapping into their unique understanding of both Ethiopian and Chinese culture to make the teaching and learning process more effective and interesting for our students," Kebede said.

These teachers not only possess a deep understanding of Ethiopian culture but also have insight into the nuances of the Chinese language and culture, making them effective conduits for communication and cultural exchange.

The Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University (AAU) has been instrumental in enhancing the capacity of Ethiopian Chinese language teachers. Through a series of training sessions, the institute has equipped the teachers with the necessary skills to teach Chinese properly.

A four-day training program, starting Wednesday, is held at AAU to promote the local teachers' capabilities in mastering the four important aspects of teaching Chinese: grammar, phonetics, vocabulary and characters, according to Gao Lili, the director of the Confucius Institute at AAU.

"We are helping local schools to improve their teaching quality while maintaining a balance between their teachers' language proficiency and effective pedagogy," Gao said.

A significant milestone in maintaining the balance between teachers' language proficiency and pedagogy is the recent introduction of the first-ever local Chinese language textbook, dubbed "Hello, Chinese," featuring Chinese-Amharic and Chinese-Afan Oromo languages.

Derartu Tesfaye, a teacher at Ambo Special Boarding School, reflects on the effectiveness of using local languages to facilitate teaching Chinese.

"Using local elements significantly made my teaching endeavor much more convenient, and it helped my students easily grasp the subject," said Tesfaye, one of the 10 teachers participating in the training program at AAU.

Tesfaye's assertion was also shared by Mussa as he recalled a phenomenon that highlighted the unique significance of harnessing local Ethiopian languages and culture in teaching Chinese.

"I remember when I was learning the Chinese language, it almost took me three months to learn the phonetics. To my surprise, my students were able to accomplish this task in about a month," Mussa said.

The impact of these efforts is also evident in students' remarkable achievements.

Gurmessa Getachew, who has been teaching Chinese to some 286 students at Ambo Special Boarding School during the past two years, proudly said that 282 of his students passed their first and second-level Chinese Proficiency Test, Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK), setting a profound acclaim to Getachew's teaching endeavor.

With their newfound Chinese language skills, students of the special boarding schools are also opening doors to a world of opportunities.

Kebede said that learning the Chinese language "opens a window of opportunity for students to realize their dreams through abundant scholarship opportunities to pursue their education in China."

These Ethiopian Chinese language teachers are not only shaping the linguistic abilities of their students but also forging stronger bonds between Ethiopia and China, paving the way for a brighter future of cultural understanding and collaboration.

Ethiopian Chinese language teachers attend a training program at the Addis Ababa University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 18, 2024. [Xinhua/Michael Tewelde]

An Ethiopian Chinese language teacher shows Chinese textbooks during a training program at the Addis Ababa University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 18, 2024. [Xinhua/Michael Tewelde]

(Source: Xinhua)
Protesters in Frankfurt: The sign reads, "Never again 1933!" [AP Photo/Michael Probst]

Well over a million people demonstrated across Germany over the weekend against the fascist Alternative for Germany (AfD). After it was revealed that politicians from the Values Union bloc between the AfD and the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), together with business representatives, were discussing plans to expel millions of people with an immigrant background, masses of people took to the streets in dozens of cities.

Everywhere, the number of participants was many times higher than expected by the organisers. In Munich alone, over 200,000 people took to the streets. Leopoldstrasse and Ludwigstrasse were so crowded that there was a risk of suffocation. The organizers, who had expected 25,000 participants, canceled the march and urged the participants, via police announcements, to go home.

People hold up their cell phones as they protest against the AfD and right-wing extremism in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin, Germany, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. [AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi]

In Berlin, the organisers claimed 350,000 participants, while the police reported 100,000. The field in front of the Reichstag building was so densely packed that 17 June Street was declared part of the protest area. Originally, the organizers had registered only 1,000 participants.

More than 40,000 people demonstrated in Frankfurt on Saturday, January 20. The image shows a view of the crowded Romerberg.

The rallies also mobilized record numbers in Cologne (70,000 participants), Hamburg (80,000), Bremen (70,000), Frankfurt (40,000), Hanover (35,000), Dortmund (30,000), Stuttgart, Karlsruhe and Heidelberg (20,000 each), Halle and Kassel (15,000 each), and numerous smaller cities, where thousands of participants exceeded the expected number many times over. In eastern Germany, where the AfD is particularly high in the polls, up to 60,000 people participated in Leipzig, 40,000 in Dresden and 12,000 in Chemnitz.

In Cologne, over 70,000 people demonstrated at the Deutzer Werft on the Rhine on Sunday, January 21.

The demonstrations show the depth and breadth of opposition to the return of fascism and war within the German population. After the terrible experiences of two world wars and the Holocaust, the rejection of German imperialism and militarism is deeply rooted in the consciousness of the masses.

The demonstrations were dominated by homemade cardboard signs, with inscriptions such as: Thats how it started back then, Now we have to do what our grandparents neglected, Hate is not an opinion, Whoever is silent agrees, Colorful instead of brown, Fascism is not an alternative, and Deport the AfD!

Stuttgart: More than 20,000 demonstrated against the AfD on Schlossplatz on Saturday, January 20.

The mass mobilisation against the fascist AfD is also objectively directed against the right-wing policies of the federal government and all the parties in the Bundestag (Parliament), which only last week severely restricted the right of immigration and made deportations easier. The government and parliamentary parties are also implementing the AfD programme by supporting the genocide in Gaza, together with massive rearmament.

The demonstrations are part of an international movement of the working class against the policies of anti-immigrant chauvinism, austerity, dictatorship and war pursued by all capitalist parties.

For weeks, millions of people worldwide have been protesting against Israels genocide in Gaza which is actively supported by all imperialist governments. In France, 150,000 people took part in demonstrations on Sunday against Macrons new immigration law, which bears the signature of the fascist Marine Le Pen. In Germany, large protests by farmers against the coalition governments austerity policy are continuing, and a powerful strike movement of the working class is developing throughout Europe and worldwide.

But the demonstrations against the AfD are marked by a contradiction. While the majority of participants are resolute and serious in their opposition to right-wing politics, most of the protest organizers are doing everything they can to blunt the movement and subordinate it to the government and the parliamentary parties, which are themselves responsible for the rise of the AfD. In many places, representatives of the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens and CDU were invited to speak. Slogans such as All together against the AfD were intended to cover up the yawning gap between the right-wing policies of the government and the sentiment of the anti-fascist demonstrators.

At the demonstration in Flensburg, which was attended by 10,000 people, a speaker was interrupted by the organisers for criticising the governments refugee policy. In various cities, the organizers banned Palestinian flags. In Berlin, there were repeated provocations against demonstrators who protested against the genocide in Gaza, which is strongly supported by the AfD. The group PA Allies reported that the demonstration organizers of Fridays for the Future (FFF) excluded them from the protest.

Many participants disagreed with the official pro-government orientation of the demonstrations.

Sophia, who works as a social worker in a refugee shelter, explained to the World Socialist Web Site in Cologne that in opposing the AfD she was also protesting against the governments deportation policy. Deportations have increased sharply and have become more inhumane, she said.

Even protecting peoples health counts for nothing. People who are pregnant or sick are deported, she said. I had an elderly woman with cancer who constantly had to go to oncology for treatment. She had been certified by the doctor as unable to travel, and she was nevertheless deported. The Foreigners Agency in Cologne, Sophia said, simply ignores the existing laws.

On the adoption of the Repatriation Improvement Act last Thursday in the Bundestag, Sophia said, They have only legalised what was already common practice. She continued:

One of the affected groups now increasingly being deported is the Roma. They were also heavily persecuted under the Nazis. One would think they would be given special protection here in light of Germanys historical responsibility. But that is not the case.

Bahar, who works in the public sector, also wanted to make a statement against the AfD and right-wing extremism by participating in the demonstration. But, as she emphasized:

If we only oppose the AfD and its racist politics but do nothing against the shift to the right in the middle of societynamely against what the CDU, FDP (Free Democratic Party) and SPD (Social Democratic Party) are propagatingthen I think we have understood nothing about how right-wing politics finds its way into the normal party structures. If we exclude this from the debates and do not mention it, then we have a very poor chance of positioning ourselves as a society against the shift to the right.

Bahar with her poster: "Question for 23.8 million people: Will they deport us with Flixbus or Ryanair?"

At the demonstration in Berlin, Katharina told the WSWS that she sees a clear link between the governments refugee policy and the rise of the AfD:

Here, hatred is blatantly directed against refugees and foreigners, and the problem is actually with politics. The government is partly to blame for the fact that these people have to flee.

She also criticized FFF for its solidarity with Israel, saying:

I find it difficult. One of the co-organisers is FFF, who have now distanced themselves sharply from Greta Thunberg. She correctly said that there is no climate justice on occupied land. Nevertheless, I think it is important to be represented here today. That does not mean that I now support every organizer. But Im fully behind the reason why were standing here. But I cant fight for climate justice and support genocide at the same time. It doesnt go together.

She said she was convinced that it is necessary to confront the government to stop the far right:

Many people want to take a step back because they know that the German government supports Israel. Some dare not say anything against it. Thats where you should actually stand behind Greta in the organization.

Socialist Equality Party (Sozialistische GleichheitsparteiSGP) representatives distributed thousands of copies of the statement How can the far-right Alternative for Germany be beaten? at demonstrations throughout the country, explaining how fascism develops out of capitalism. The statement declares:

The AfD is not a foreign body in an otherwise healthy organism but the worst symptom of a thoroughly sick system. Just like 90 years ago, the deepening capitalist crisis is once again leading to fascism and war.

The SGP is fighting to carry the struggle against the return of fascism into the working class and to arm it with a socialist program. To this end, the statement asserts:

It is important to develop these growing protests into an international movement against capitalism itself. Only if the power of the banks and corporations is broken and the basis for war and inequality is removed can the development towards dictatorship be stopped. This requires a struggle against the government and its pseudo-left appendages, which paralyse the struggles and defend capitalism.
25 years ago: Colombia earthquake kills thousands

On January 25, 1999, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck the Colombian city of Armenia, killing nearly 2,000 people and leaving a further 4,000 injured. Approximately 3,900 people were declared missing.

The quakes epicenter was located just 15 miles west of Armenia in Valle del Cauca state. The quake also damaged towns and hamlets in neighboring Quindio, Tolima, and Risaralda states. Armenia, a city of 300,000 about 100 miles west of the capital Bogota, absorbed the brunt of the quake. Two-thirds of the citys buildings were rendered uninhabitable and an estimated 180,000 people were made homeless. Many of the injured were turned away from overflowing hospitals and clinics. In the citys working-class neighborhoods, homes made of wood, decaying cement and cinder block, built on unstable ground, were flattened. Only the northern, wealthier section of the city was left largely unscathed.

Geological map of Armenia, the city at the center of the Colombia earthquake

In the aftermath of the disaster, thousands of working class and poor residents reacted in anger over delays in government relief. They ransacked food stores and other locations and clashed with soldiers and police in desperate search of food and water. President Andres Pastrana responded by dispatching 2,000 soldiers and 700 extra police to the area.

Virtually no basic emergency aid reached the disaster areas in the earliest days after the earthquake. Relief agencies reported that food distribution systems broke down and that insufficient supplies were airlifted into the disaster zone. International aid pledges were minimal, including $1 million from the European Union and $10 million from the Inter-American Development Bank. The US provided blankets and plastic sheeting worth $2 million.

Chants of We want food, not bullets were heard in some areas of the city where angry residents outnumbered police and soldiers, who responded by firing automatic assault rifles. Secret service agents from the notorious National Security Department (DIS) fired machine guns and pistols to stop the protesters. The government imposed a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew to prevent looting, even though it hindered rescue efforts.

Colombia, the third most populous country in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico, had a poverty rate of 52 percent. This was intensified by the restructuring program imposed by western financial institutions for the repayment of the countrys $20 billion-plus in foreign debt. In addition, the county had been hard hit by falling commodity prices, above all on its coffee crop, which accounted for $2.1 billion, about half of the countrys exports.

50 years ago: Nixon plumbers chief sentenced

Egil Krogh

On January 24, 1974, Egil Krogh was sentenced to two to six years in prison for his role as the head of the Special Investigation Unit, better known as the White House Plumbers, the secret organization established by President Richard Nixon to spy on and discredit political opponents. Krogh plead guilty to conspiracy against the rights of citizens for his authorization of the 1971 burglary of the office of Dr. Lewis Fielding, Daniel Ellsbergs psychologist.

Krogh was a longtime associate of former White House counsel John Ehrlichman, having worked for Ehrlichmans law firm before joining Nixons 1968 campaign team and then the official White House staff. In 1971, Krogh was assigned by Ehrlichman to lead the Plumbers spy unit which was created immediately after the release of the Pentagon Papers by Ellsberg.

The Pentagon Papers demonstrated the government had been lying to the American population about the possibility to win the Vietnam War, as well as its total indifference to the lives of both Vietnamese civilians and American soldiers. Once made public, the documents helped fuel the already large and growing antiwar movement.

The release of the Pentagon Papers enraged Nixon, who first created the Special Investigation Unit specifically to spy on and discredit Ellsberg. The aim of the Plumbers was to fix leaks by terrorizing and making an example of Ellsberg in order to intimidate other potential whistleblowers from coming forward with information about crimes committed by the government.

By the time of the 1972 Watergate break-in at the offices of the Democratic National Committee, Krogh was removed as head of the Plumbers for his refusal to authorize an illegal wiretap. Most accounts by the bourgeois press present Krogh as possessing integrity for coming forward to admit his own guilt while others in the Nixon administration scrambled to save themselves.

However, it was not until after the break-in at Fieldings office that Krogh began expressing any reservations about his actions. He was just the first to realize the need to jump ship. The thuggish manner that the break-in was conducted made a full cover-up of the operation impossible.

The White House team had destroyed the office using mafia tactics, smashing open filing cabinets in a desperate attempt to find any dirt to be used against Ellsberg. Krogh admitted during his sentencing, When I saw the photographs, I immediately felt that a mistake had been made. All charges against Ellsberg for theft and espionage related to the Pentagon Papers were dropped once news of the break-in, wiretapping, and other crimes against him were revealed.

Still, Krogh played his part in the conspiracy to cover up Nixons role in Watergate and other crimes. Upon his sentencing Krogh claimed that he received no specific instruction or authority whatsoever, regarding the break-in from the President, directly or indirectly. He added that the Plumbers were established by the President, created by John Ehrlichman and I was put in command.

The day before Kroghs sentencing, Nixon made clear that at the time he still had no intention of resigning and would make no concessions to the impeachment inquiry. Im going to fight like hell he told the press.

Sentenced to two to six years, Krogh would only serve four months in prison before being released. He was disbarred from practicing law in 1975, a ruling reversed in 1980.

In a 2007 memoir reflecting on his role as head of the Plumbers, Krogh wrote, We believed then that these leaks constituted a national security crisis and needed to be plugged at all costs. But we were wrong, and the price paid by the country was too high.

He elaborated further, The premise of our action was the strongly held view within certain precincts of the White House that the president and those functioning on his behalf could carry out illegal acts with impunity if they were convinced that the nations security demanded it.

75 years ago: US-led court frees Franz von Papen, enabler of Hitlers rise to power

On January 26, 1949, Franz von Papen was freed by a West German denazification court after a successful appeal against an earlier sentence of eight years hard labor for his role in the crimes of the Third Reich. Papen was one of several figures in the German political establishment most directly involved in the 1933 coming to power of Adolf Hitler.

The freeing of a figure so central to the rise of the Nazi regime was bound up with the shift in US foreign policy. Under conditions of the Cold War against the Soviet Union, it was increasingly employing the services of fascist and Nazi forces as part of its push to dominate Europe and the world.

A reactionary from a Catholic landlord family, Papen had served the German effort in World War I, including as a diplomat and spymaster in Washington. At the conclusion of the conflict, Papen entered the Landtag or parliament of Prussia as a Centre Party monarchist, with credentials in the repression of communists and socialists.

Amid the disintegration of the Weimar Republic following the 1929 Wall Street crash, Papen came to increasing prominence, as an elite figure pushing for the abolition of democratic governance. Papen welcomed the turn of German Chancellor Heinrich Bruning towards a form of extra-parliamentary dictatorship but urged him to suppress the Social Democratic Party and rely on the Nazis as a base of support, making more explicit his authoritarian rule.

Franz von Papen

On June 1, 1932, President Paul von Hindenburg appointed Papen chancellor of Germany. The surprise decision, amid the unraveling of constitutional governance, was made at the recommendation of General Kurt von Schleicher, an aristocratic adviser. Papens administration presided over austerity, a coup against the Social Democrats in Prussia and the legalization of the paramilitary wings of the Nazi Party. Deeply unpopular and lacking any mass base, Papen was compelled to vacate the office, and was replaced by Schleicher.

The two had a major political falling out. In the intrigues and backroom plots that followed, Papen developed close relations with the Nazi Party and Hitler. On January 9, 1933, Hindenburg and Papen agreed to form a new government that would include Hitler. At the end of the month, that administration was formed with Hitler as Chancellor and Papen as Vice Chancellor.

Papen supported Hitlers crackdown on opposition, including the effective dissolution and mass repression of socialists and communists. He was sidelined in the Night of the Long Knives of 1934, when Hitler moved to consolidate full power and oust potential rivals, including within the Nazi Party. But Hitler never moved decisively against Papen, and he occupied a series of diplomatic and ambassadorial posts, including during World War II and the horrors of the Holocaust.

Papens 1949 appeal claimed that he had been incorrectly convicted of being a main offender in the crimes of the Nazi regime, and sought to be demoted to the status of an offender in the second degree. A court order for the confiscation of his substantial property was rescinded, he was fined 2,000 pounds and allowed to walk free. While one proviso barred him from holding public office again, von Papen resumed public activities, including with writings justifying the role he had played.

100 years ago: Oil tycoon admits to bribing US cabinet member

On January 24, 1924, in testimony before a hearing on the Teapot Dome oil lease scandal before the Senate Committee on Public Lands and Surveys, Edward Doheny, the owner of the Pan American Petroleum and Transport Company (PAT), admitted that in 1921 he gave Secretary of the Interior Albert B. Fall a no-interest loan of $100,000 (about $1,826,000 today), in return for the lease of 32,000 acres (13,000 hectares) of federal land. The corruption of Fall was only the most notorious of the many scandals involving the administration of President Warren G. Harding, who died in office in 1923, before the worst of them came to light.

Albert B. Fall

The area leased, without bidding, the Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve near Taft, California, was to be used for oil prospecting by PAT which owned oil fields in the US, Mexico and Venezuela. Fall had given similar rights to the Teapot Dome oil reserve in Wyoming next year to Harry F. Sinclair of Mammoth Oil. In total, Fall received about $404,000 (about $7,376,510 today) in bribes in return for prospecting rights from the two oil magnates.

The affair had come to the attention of the public after journalist Carl Magee raised questions about the appearance of sudden wealth by Albert Fall in the Albuquerque Tribune. Fall had been a senator from New Mexico. Shortly after that, a Wyoming oil prospector complained to his senator that the Teapot Dome lease to Sinclair had been awarded unfairly.

A Senate investigation eventually came under the leadership of Republican Senator Robert La Follette, whose office was burglarized during the investigation. Records related to the case also disappeared mysteriously, and Fall looked to be innocentdespite his lavish spendinguntil 1924 when evidence of Dohenys bribe came to light. A series of civil and criminal trials ensued over the next few years.

Edward Doheny was never found guilty of a crime, and Harry Sinclair was sentenced to six years in prison where a further scandal ensued after he was given preferential treatment. Albert Fall was sentenced to a year in federal prison.

The Teapot Dome affair was perhaps the best-known example of federal corruption before the Watergate scandal of 1972-74 which ended the administration of Richard Nixon.
On January 17 and 18, the German engineering union, IG Metall and the company works council at the Ford plant in Saarlouis called for brief warning strikes to be held in front of the factory gate. Around 1,000 took part. Another warning strike took place last Friday.

To make clear: the limited strikes are an integral part of the plan for the closure of the factory that the works council headed by Markus Thal and IG Metall is implementing on behalf of the company. The aim is to prepare the plants remaining 3,850 employees for imminent, massive job cuts, offers of menial alternative jobs and low severance payments.

Warning strike at the Ford plant in Saarlouis [Photo by IGM Volklingen]

Immediately after a supposedly serious investor backed out in October last year, Thal and his works council started negotiations on conditions for those workers to be made redundant. Ford had previously promised to finance 1,000 jobs until 2032, with Ford management and the works council sitting together for over three months to negotiate the conditions under which at least 2,850 Ford employees would be made redundant.

Now Thal claims to have realised that the negotiations are going in the wrong direction. Allegedly, Ford does not want to pay the often long-serving employees more than has already been agreed in the companys existing voluntary programme. The works council, however, wants to avoid an outcry and protests by offering the carrot of slightly higher severance payments.

Thal explains this quite openly: The offer presented so far in the social contract bargaining ... is nowhere near enough to achieve a peaceful solution at the site. Thals priority is a peaceful solution, i.e., the closure of the plantpreferably without a squeak from the workforce!

The extension of production until the end of 2025 will probably also serve this goal, with the works council and management currently planning to reduce daily production from 600 vehicles to 520 from April and thus switch to single-shift operation. To achieve this, production will not end in May 2025, but now at a later date. The workforce was informed about this, not from the works council, but rather from a notice posted in a nearby supplier plant. This postponement would push back the final plant closure by a few months, during which time employees would be gradually eased out of the factory.

The works council will also use the question of who will receive one of the 1,000 guaranteed jobs to divide the workforce. Colleagues who dare to rebel will be put under pressure.

Three days ago, Ford boss Martin Sander revealed to the Kolner Stadtanzeiger newspaper that the 1,000 jobs are not located in the auto industry, and possibly not even in an industrial company. He confirmed that there would not be a key investor from the auto industry. Ford is endeavouring to attract companies from other industries to the site in order to create as many jobs as possible.

In plain language, this means that 1,000 Ford employees will be offered jobs at companies with which Ford has possibly reached or will reach an agreement. There are rumours among the workforce that an agreement with a Chinese company will be announced soon.

Be that as it may, when it is announced in the next few weeks which companies will be taking over key parts of the plant, many of the remaining 2,850 Ford workers and the 1,500 employed in other companies in the neighbouring supplier estate will be left empty-handed.

IG Metall and the works council under Thal know these details but are saying nothing. This is because Thal and his representative on the works council, Holger Michel, as well as the state government, were regularly informed about the status of negotiations by the so-called task force, which spoke to all potential investors, for around a year and a half. Shortly after a major investor backed out in October last year, plant manager Sarah Gielen announced she would be leaving at the end of 2023. Andreas Kreuz, who was previously the chairman of the task force, took over as plant manager in Saarlouis. The company human resources manager had already been replaced by task force member Roman Lauer.

Now these people are sitting together to negotiate the terms of the social contract. What this conspiratorial group has already decided, first in the task force and now in the latest negotiations, is being kept firmly under wraps.

The most important lesson from the past two years goes far beyond Ford: the fight to defend jobs must be directed against the company and its trade union and works council apparatus. IG Metall and the works council are lined up totally with the other side, with the company management.

Ever since Thal, the Ford General Works Council and IG Metall jointly entered the bidding competition against the workers at the Ford plant in Almussafes (Valencia, Spain) at the end of 2021, they have lied to and deceived the workforce. Behind the backs of the more than 4,600 employees at the timedown from 7,000they initially offered the Ford Group management huge wage cuts and job losses as well as billions in subsidies along with the SPD (Social Democrats) state government of Saarland. All 22,000 employees in all Ford plants in Germany were to receive 18 percent less pay and work an additional 20 days a yearwithout pay! The investor was to receive up to an additional 5 billion euros in taxpayers money.

In its first statement almost exactly two years ago, the rank-and-file Ford Action Committee took a clear stance on the bidding competition and warned: We reject the blackmail and brutal competition between us and between our sites as a matter of principle. Playing off against one another will only lead to disaster.

Now the disaster has arrived. When Ford announced in June 2022 that the plant in Saarlouis had lost the competition with other plants and would be closed, IGM and the works council suppressed calls for industrial action and encouraged hopes that a new investor would step in and continue to run the plant.

In the meantime, jobs have been continuously wiped out. Currently, only 3,850 people are still employed at the plant in Saarlouis and around 1,500 in neighbouring companies in the supplier estate. This total of more than 5,300 jobs at Ford and its suppliers is now in acute danger.

If the IG Metall works council under Thal is not finally countered, the fight to defend jobs will be lost. Time is pressing but it is not too late. In the US, the UAW (United Auto Workers) union enforced a miserable contract on car workersincluding colleagues at Fordin its last wage negotiations. The only reason there was no rebellion against the contract was because promises were made to the preserve jobs and the hiring of temporary workers.

Now the temporary workers are being made redundant and a rebellion is developing against the UAW and its false promises. Action committees are preparing a struggle.

In other countries too, such as Turkey, car workers are fighting against job cuts, miserable working conditions and low wages. In Germany, a new wave of attacks is on the horizon at VW, Opel, Bosch, ZF, Mahle, tire manufacturers and many other smaller companies. The workers at Ford in Saarlouis must unite with these colleagues worldwide through the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees.

Send a WhatsApp message to +491633378340. Become active and held build the Ford Action Committee!
This essay by WSWS International Editorial Board Chairman David North was originally published on April 22, 2020, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of Lenins birth.

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov in the Russian city of Simbirsk on April 22, 1870. Known in history under the name of Lenin, he was the founder of the Bolshevik Party, leader of the 1917 October Revolution and, undoubtedly, a towering figure in the political and intellectual history of the twentieth century.

Leon Trotsky once wrote that all of Lenin is summed up in the October Revolution. Trotsky illuminated the meaning of his observation when he wrote, in his history of the events of 1917: Besides the factories, barracks, villages, the front and the soviets, the revolution had another laboratory: the brain of Lenin.

This brain had been at work on the problem of revolution for decades. The conquest of power by the Russian working class in October 1917 marked the intersection of two world historical processes: 1) the development of the contradictions of Russian and world capitalism; and 2) Lenins protracted struggle, based on a philosophical materialist, i.e., Marxist, analysis of objective socio-economic conditions, to build the revolutionary socialist party necessary for the working class to establish its independence from all the political agencies of the bourgeoisie.

Lenin speaking in 1919

Attempting to assess the genius and unique historical role of Lenin, it can be said that there is not another figure in the history of the socialist movement, apart from Marx and Engels, in whose political work the relationship between the conscious application of philosophical materialismenriched by the latest developments in natural science (especially physics)and the development of political analysis and revolutionary strategy, achieved such explicit, systematic and internally unified expression.

The most striking characteristic of Lenins theoretical-political work was its concentrated effort, spanning decades, to raise the class consciousness of the working class and, thereby, enable the alignment of its practice with objective socio-economic necessity. Bourgeois moralists, innumerable academics, and other enemies of Leninism have frequently denounced the great revolutionarys ruthlessness. But they misuse the word. The political essence of Lenins ruthlessness was, to quote Trotsky again, the highest qualitative and quantitative appreciation of reality, from the standpoint of revolutionary action.

It is worth noting that one of Lenins earliest works, titled What the Friends of the People Are and How they Fight the Social Democrats (written in 1894 and published in Volume One of his Collected Works), was a passionate defense of philosophical materialism, in which he opposed the subjective sociology of the populist theoretician, Nikolai Mikhailovsky. Lenin wrote that the materialist positionthat the course of ideas depends on the course of thingsis the only one compatible with scientific psychology. Lenin continued:

Hitherto, sociologists had found it difficult to distinguish the important and unimportant in the complex network of social phenomena (that is the root of subjectivism in sociology) and had been unable to discover any objective criterion for such a demarcation. Materialism provided an absolutely objective criterion by singling out production relations as the structure of society, and making it possible to apply to these relations that general scientific criterion of recurrence whose applicability to sociology the subjectivists denied. [Collected Works, Vol. 1, p. 140]

Underlying Lenins defense of materialism were decisive questions of political perspective and strategy: to what social force should the work of the socialist movement be oriented? To the peasantry or the working class?

Lenins insistence on a rigorous analysis of objective socio-economic processes had nothing in common with political passivity, in which the socialist had merely to wait on history to take its course. Lenin contrasted materialism to objectivism:

The objectivist speaks of the necessity of a given historical process; the materialist gives an exact picture of the given social-economic formation and of the antagonistic relations to which it gives rise. When demonstrating the necessity for a given series of facts, the objectivist always runs the risk of becoming an apologist for these facts: the materialist discloses the class contradictions and in so doing defines his standpoint. The objectivist speaks of insurmountable historical tendencies; the materialist speaks of the class which directs the given economic system, giving rise to such and such forms of counteraction by other classes. Thus, on the one hand, the materialist is more consistent than the objectivist, and gives profounder and fuller effect to his objectivism. He does not limit himself to speaking of the necessity of a process, but ascertains exactly what social-economic formation gives the process its content, exactly what class determines this necessity  [M]aterialism includes partisanship, so to speak, and enjoins the direct and open adoption of the standpoint of a definite social group in any assessment of events. [Collected Works, Vol, 1, pp. 400-01]

This passage was written in response to Pyotr Struve, the Legal Marxist and future leader of Russian bourgeois liberals. But it also anticipated Lenins struggle, a decade later, against the Menshevik tendency, which required the acceptance by the working class of the political leadership of the capitalist class in a future bourgeois democratic revolution.

Lenin was arrested in 1895 by the Tsarist police, and was to spend the next five years in prison and Siberian exile. These were valuable years of intense theoretical work, which included his study of the Hegelian philosophy and his engagement with and eventual mastery of dialectics.

Lenins term of exile ended in 1900 and he soon made his way to Western Europe, where he began, despite a difficult initial encounter, a close collaboration with the Father of Russian Marxism, G. V. Plekhanov.

By the turn of the century, the European Social Democratic movement was confronted with a revisionist challenge, led by Eduard Bernstein, to Marxism. Politically, revisionism sought to replace the program of socialist revolution with bourgeois labor reformism. Theoretically, it advanced the idealist philosophy of academic neo-Kantianism in opposition to dialectical materialism.

It is especially significant, in the light of the subsequent development of the European social democratic movement between 1898 and the outbreak of World War I in 1914, that the most important contributions to the theoretical and political fight against revisionism were made, not by the German social democrats, but by the Polish Marxist Rosa Luxemburg, and the two major figures in the Russian Social Democratic Labor Party (RSDLP), Plekhanov and Lenin.

Luxemburgs Reform or Revolution was a devastating exposure of the political consequences of Bernsteins revisionism. Plekhanovs critique of the neo-Kantian revisionism of Bernstein and his supporters remains, to this day, among the most brilliant expositions of historical development and the theoretical methodology of dialectical materialism.

However, it was Lenins contribution to the struggle against revisionism and opportunism, What Is To Be Done?, that proved to be the most theoretically acute and politically far-sighted. With greater depth and consistency than any other Marxist of his time, including Kautsky, Lenin revealed and explained the objective significance and political implications of the belittling of Marxist theory.

Moreover, Lenin demonstrated the inextricable connection between the struggle against the influence of opportunism in all its diverse formstheoretical, political and organizationaland the building of the revolutionary party and the establishment of the political independence of the working class.

Denouncing as opportunist all tendencies that downplayed the significance of the explicit struggle for the development of socialist consciousness and, instead, glorified the spontaneous development (i.e., without the intervention of Marxists) of the consciousness and practice of the working class, Lenin wrote:

Since there can be no talk of an independent ideology formulated by the working masses themselves in the process of their movement, the only choice iseither bourgeois or socialist ideology. There is no middle course (for mankind has not created a third ideology, and, moreover, in a society torn by class antagonisms there can never be a non-class or an above-class ideology). Hence, to belittle the socialist ideology in any way, to turn aside from it in the slightest degree means to strengthen bourgeois ideology. There is much talk about spontaneity. But the spontaneous development of the working-class movement leads to its subordination to bourgeois ideology. [Collected Works, Vol. 5, p. 384]

Drawing a sharp contrast between socialist consciousness and trade unionism, which he defined as the bourgeois ideology of the working class, Lenin wrote:

Hence, our task, the task of Social-Democracy, is to combat spontaneity, to divert the working-class movement from this spontaneous, trade-unionist striving to come under the wing of the bourgeoisie, and to bring it under the wing of revolutionary Social-Democracy. [Ibid, pp. 384-85]

What Is To Be Done? was published in 1902. But it was not until 1903, at the Second Congress of the RSDLP, that the far-sightedness of Lenins analysis of the political implications of the struggle against opportunism was substantiated. The split that occurred at the Second Congressostensibly over a minor difference over the definition of party membership, which gave rise to the Bolshevik and Menshevik factionswas initially seen by many delegates as an unnecessary and even malign disruption of party unity, caused by Lenins excessive factionalism.

Lenins answer to this accusation was to undertake a detailed analysis of the proceedings of the Second Congress, which spanned 37 sessions held over a period of three weeks. This analysis, which was published under the title One Step Forward, Two Steps Back, demonstrated that the Menshevik faction was a manifestation, within the Russian socialist movement, of politically opportunist tendenciesinclining toward compromise and conciliation with the liberal and reformist parties of the bourgeoisiethat had developed in Social Democratic parties throughout Europe.

Subsequent developments in Russia, particularly during and in the aftermath of the revolution of 1905, substantiated Lenins analysis of the class character and democratic-liberal orientation of the revisionist and opportunist tendencies. To trace, even in outline form, the evolution of the political differentiation of Bolshevik and Menshevik tendencies in the years that followed the Second Congress is necessarily beyond the scope of this commemoration of Lenins life.

However, it must be stressed that Lenins understanding of the inner-party struggle against opportunism, in all its diverse forms, was profoundly different from that which generally prevailed throughout the Second International. Lenin analyzed conflicts over matters of tactics, organization and program as manifestations, within parties and factions, of objective divisions within society. Such divisions were not to be seen as distractions from the socialist movements engagement in the class struggle, but as an essential and unavoidable element of that struggle.

Striving to uncover the socio-economic processes underlying the development of the struggle between tendencies, Lenin saw opportunism as the manifestation of bourgeois and petty-bourgeois interests and pressure upon the revolutionary vanguard. The appropriate response to such pressure, in whatever form it exerted itself, was not to seek accommodation and compromise. Opportunism was not, in Lenins view, a legitimate part of the workers movement. It was, rather, a debilitating, demoralizing and reactionary force, working to divert the working class away from the program of social revolution and toward capitulation to the bourgeoisie.

It was this uncompromisingly hostile attitude toward opportunism that distinguished Bolshevism from all other political parties and tendencies within the Second International prior to the outbreak of World War I.

The world historical significance of the struggle that Lenin had waged against opportunism was substantiated in 1914. Almost overnight, the leading parties of the Second International abandoned the pledges they had made to uphold the solidarity of the international working class and capitulated to the ruling classes in their countries. Lenins opposition to the betrayal of the Second International, and call for the building of a Third International, elevated him and the Bolshevik Party to the forefront of the world socialist movement.

The outstanding features of Lenins response to the collapse of the Second International were first, that he demonstrated the connection between the betrayal of August 1914 and the antecedent development of revisionism and opportunism in the Social Democratic parties. Second, Lenin proved that the growth of opportunism was not to be explained in terms of personal treachery (though treachery there certainly was), but in powerful socio-economic tendencies arising out of the development of imperialism in the final years of the nineteenth century and the first decade and a half of the twentieth. In a series of brilliant theoretical worksabove all, the monumental Imperialism, the Highest Stage of CapitalismLenin provided a comprehensive analysis of the economic essence of imperialism, its place in the history of capitalism, its role in the growth of opportunism and the general corruption of the labor organizations affiliated with the Second International, and, finally, its relationship to the development of world socialist revolution.

In a concise summation of his work on the causes and significance of the war, titled Imperialism and the Split in Socialism, Lenin wrote:

Imperialism is a specific historical stage of capitalism. Its specific character is threefold: imperialism is monopoly capitalism; parasitic, or decaying capitalism; moribund capitalism. The supplanting of free competition by monopoly is the fundamental economic feature, the quintessence of imperialism. Monopoly manifests itself in five principal forms: (1) cartels, syndicates and truststhe concentration of production has reached a degree which gives rise to these monopolistic associations of capitalists; (2) the monopolistic position of the big banksthree, four or five giant banks manipulate the whole economic life of America, France, Germany; (3) seizure of the sources of raw material by the trusts and the financial oligarchy (finance capital is monopoly industrial capital merged with bank capital); (4) the (economic) partition of the world by the international cartels has begun. There are already over one hundred such international cartels, which command the entire world market and divide it amicably among themselvesuntil war redivides it. The export of capital, as distinct from the export of commodities under non-monopoly capitalism, is a highly characteristic phenomenon and is closely linked with the economic and territorial-political partition of the world; (5) the territorial partition of the world (colonies) is completed. [Collected Works, Vol. 23, P. 195]

Lenin called attention to several critical political characteristics of the imperialist epoch.

The difference between the democratic-republican and the reactionary-monarchist imperialist bourgeoisie is obliterated precisely because they are both rotting alive  Secondly, the decay of capitalism is manifested in the creation of a huge stratum of rentiers, capitalists who live by clipping coupons.  Thirdly, export of capital is parasitism raised to a high pitch. Fourthly, finance capital strives for domination, not freedom. Political reaction all along the line is a characteristic feature of imperialism. Corruption, bribery on a huge scale and all kinds of fraud. Fifthly, the exploitation of oppressed nationswhich is inseparably connected with annexationsand especially the exploitation of colonies by a handful of Great Powers, increasingly transforms the civilised world into a parasite on the body of hundreds of millions in the uncivilised nations. The Roman proletarian lived at the expense of society. Modern society lives at the expense of the modern proletarian. Marx specially stressed this profound observation of Sismondi. Imperialism somewhat changes the situation. A privileged upper stratum of the proletariat in the imperialist countries lives partly at the expense of hundreds of millions in the uncivilised nations. [Ibid, pp. 106-07]

For all the developments in the global economy over the past century, Lenins analysis of both the economic and political characteristics of imperialism retains immense contemporary relevance. A passage which resonates with exceptional force in the present period calls upon socialists to go down lower and deeper, to the real masses; this is the whole meaning and the whole purport of the struggle against opportunism. [Ibid, p. 120]

Imperialism and the Split in Socialism was written in October 1916. Lenin was living in Zurich, which served as his political headquarters as he provided political leadership for the revolutionary internationalist opposition to the war. In January 1917, Lenin delivered a lecture commemorating the twelfth anniversary of the outbreak of the 1905 Revolution. He said:

We must not be deceived by the present grave-like stillness in Europe. Europe is pregnant with revolution. The monstrous horrors of the imperialist war, the suffering caused by the high cost of living everywhere engender a revolutionary mood; and the ruling classes, the bourgeoisie and its servitors, the governments, are more and more moving into a blind alley from which they can never extricate themselves without tremendous upheavals. [Ibid, p. 253]

Just six weeks later, the revolution anticipated by Lenin was born in the streets of Petrograd. The Tsarist regime was overthrown by a mass uprising of the working class, bringing to power a bourgeois Provisional Government, supported by the Menshevik and Socialist-Revolutionary parties. With Lenin trapped in Zurich, the leaders of the Bolshevik Party who were already in Petrograd, principally Lev Kamenev and Josef Stalin, offered critical support to the Provisional Government and to the continuation of Russias participation in the World War.

Lenin dispatched Letters from Afar to Petrograd, in which he made clear his opposition to the Provisional Government. But it was not until he managed to return to Russia, aboard a sealed train in April, that Lenin was able to initiate the political struggle that brought about a fundamental change in the program and strategic orientation of the Bolshevik Party and set it on the course that led to the conquest of power in October 1917.

The struggle initiated by Lenin, immediately upon his return to Russia, represents the most politically consequential of his life. Lenins April Theses repudiated the program of the Democratic Dictatorship of the Proletariat and Peasantry that had directed the political strategy and practice of the Bolshevik Party since the revolution of 1905. This program had defined the struggle for the overthrow of the tsarist regime as a bourgeois democratic revolution. The Bolshevik formula insisted upon the leading role of the working class in the coming revolution, and aspired toward the destruction of all the feudal and anti-democratic remnants of the tsarist regime. But the program of the Bolsheviks did not call for the overthrow of the Russian bourgeoisie and the elimination of capitalist property relations.

Moreover, the programmatic formulation of the Bolsheviksdefining the new revolutionary regime as a democratic dictatorship of the proletariat and peasantryimparted a significant degree of ambiguity regarding the precise nature of the state power that was to emerge from the overthrow of the tsarist regime.

In the years between 1905 and 1917, the most comprehensive left-wing critique of the Bolshevik program of the democratic dictatorship was that advanced by Leon Trotsky. His theory of permanent revolution envisaged the overthrow of tsarism as leading, more or less rapidly, to the conquest of power by the working class. Notwithstanding the economic backwardness of Russia, the global development of capitalism and imperialist geopolitics foreclosed the possibility of the development of the Russian Revolution along bourgeois democratic and capitalist lines, as had been traditionally anticipated by Marxists. The Russian Revolution would place before the working class the task of overthrowing the bourgeoisie and taking power in its own hands. Viewing the Russian Revolution as the opening of the world socialist revolution, Trotsky insisted that the survival of the proletarian dictatorship in Russia would depend upon the overthrow of capitalism by the working class in the advanced capitalist countries, above all, in Germany.

Prior to 1914, Lenin had discounted Trotskys theory of permanent revolution as absurdly left. However, it is undoubtedly the case that the outbreak of the world war led Lenin to reevaluate the old Bolshevik formula and reconsider his attitude toward Trotskys program. This was not a case of political plagiarism. Lenin arrived at conclusions very close to those of Trotsky, if not entirely identical, as a consequence of his own analysis of the global economic and political dynamic of the world war. Immensely principled in his approach to politics, Lenin recognized the need to change the party program. In the course of a political struggle that extended over several weeks, he was able to reorient the Bolshevik Party and set it on a course that led to the conquest of political power in October.

There is one further episode in the drama of 1917 that testifies to the extraordinary link between theory and practice in the work of Lenin. In the aftermath of the defeat suffered by the Petrograd working class during the July Days, the eruption of counterrevolution forced Lenin into hiding. Under the most difficult of political conditions, with his life in constant danger, Lenin prepared for the renewal of the struggle for power by writing The State and Revolution. Lenins conception of how the Marxist party prepared itself and the working class for great political tasks finds characteristic expression in his preface to this remarkable work, whose significance has not been diminished even by the passage of a century.

The struggle to free the working people from the influence of the bourgeoisie in general, and of the imperialist bourgeoisie in particular, is impossible without a struggle against opportunist prejudices concerning the state.  The question of the relation of the socialist proletarian revolution to the state, therefore, is acquiring not only practical political importance, but also the significance of a most urgent problem of the day, the problem of explaining to the masses what they will have to do before long to free themselves from capitalist tyranny. [Collected Works, Vol. 25, p. 388]

The seizure of power by the Russian working class, led by the Bolshevik Party, took place on October 2526. In his account of Ten Days that Shook the World, John Reed witnessed Lenins triumphant entry into the Petrograd Soviet, and wrote this evocative description of the great revolutionary leader. Dressed in shabby clothes, his trousers much too long for him. Unimpressive, to be the idol of a mob, loved and revered as perhaps few leaders in history have been. A strange popular leadera leader purely by virtue of intellect; colorless, humorless, uncompromising and detached, without picturesque idiosyncrasiesbut with the power of explaining profound ideas in simple terms, of analyzing a concrete situation. And combined with shrewdness, the greatest intellectual audacity.

One can legitimately dispute Reeds description of Lenin as colorless and humorless. There are many accounts of Lenins personality that provide ample evidence of the qualities that Reed did not notice on the day when the Bolshevik Party leader was entirely absorbed with the overthrow of the bourgeois state and the establishment of a revolutionary government. But Reeds characterization of Lenin as a leader purely by virtue of intellect is, apart from a certain one-sidedness, justified. Lenin represented a new type of political leader, who sought to base the program and practice of his party and the working class on a scientific understanding of objective reality.

The problem of establishing the proper alignment of theory and practice was a central preoccupation of Lenins entire political life. The highest task of humanity, Lenin wrote in Materialism and Empirio-Criticism, is to comprehend this objective logic of economic evolution (the evolution of social life) in its general and fundamental features, so that it may be possible to adapt to it ones social consciousness and the consciousness of the advanced classes of all capitalist countries in as definite, clear and critical a fashion as possible. [Collected Works, Vol. 14, p. 325]

Lenin, Leon Trotsky, Lev Kamenev motivate the troops to fight on the Soviet-Polish war. 1 May 1920

Fifty years ago, in 1970, the centenary of Lenins birth was the occasion for countless meetings, seminars, symposiums, demonstrations and rallies, at which his life was celebrated. But for the most part, these events were devoted to falsifying his political work. The Soviet Union still existed and the ruling bureaucracy dispensed vast resources to promote a version of Lenins life compatible with the needs of the ruling Stalinist bureaucracy. All traces of his close collaboration with Trotsky had to be obliterated. Lenin, who had waged a life-long war against capitalism, had to be transformed into an advocate of the parliamentary road to socialism and peaceful coexistence between classes.

Having consigned his mummified body to a mausoleum, the Kremlin imposters attempted to present themselves as the legitimate heirs of the great revolutionary. In fact, the Kremlin officials, who stood atop the mausoleum in Red Square to celebrate the centenary, were the heirs of Stalin, the counterrevolutionary criminal, and the beneficiaries of the betrayal of the principles and program of the October Revolution.

Lenin, in the opening chapter of The State and Revolution, had anticipated his own fate. During the lifetime of great revolutionaries, he wrote, the oppressing classes constantly hounded them, received their theories with the most savage malice, the most furious hatred and the most unscrupulous campaigns of lies and slander. After their death, attempts are made to convert them into harmless icons, to canonize them, so to say, and to hallow their names to a certain extent for the consolation of the oppressed classes and with the object of duping the latter, while at the same time robbing the revolutionary theory of its substance, blunting its revolutionary edge and vulgarizing it. [Collected Works, Vol. 25, p. 390]

But now, as we mark the 150th anniversary of Lenins birth, history has come full circle. In the midst of unprecedented global crisis, the legacy of the real Leninwhich was defended by the Trotskyist movementwill once again educate and inspire a new generation of revolutionary workers and youth.
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and Replica Studios, an Artificial Intelligence voice technology company, have disclosed what both termed a groundbreaking deal covering the use of AI voice technology.

The agreement, announced January 9, involves licensing actors voices for use in video game development. The union claimed in a statement that the deal would enable Replica to engage SAG-AFTRA members under a fair, ethical agreement to create and use digital replicas of actors voices, with the performers informed consent, for games and other interactive media projects. In other words, this deal will lead, sooner rather than later, to the elimination of voice actors jobs.

The SAG-AFTRA headquarters in Los Angeles, California. [Photo by Ishmael Daro / CC BY-SA 2.0

As one voice actor responded, Does leadership not understand that we actually like working?  I dont want my AI replica being used in AAA games [games produced and distributed by mid-sized or major publishers] I want to actually work on those AAA games.

The union is facilitating the destruction of a portion of its membership. This is the logical follow-up to the sellout contract agreed to by SAG-AFTRA after a lengthy strike last year.

The Replica deal was engineered behind the backs of workers, with SAG-AFTRA failing even to inform actors it was engaged in negotiations with the studio.

The agreement comes as SAG-AFTRA is engaged in separate negotiations with the major video gaming corporations over the Interactive Media Agreement which covers both off-camera and on-camera artists in video games.

The announcement of the Replica deal sparked outrage among artists in the gaming industry.

Damien Haas posted on X/Twitter: At this point, I cant tell what drives your actions more: direct malice, shortsighted greed, or sheer incompetence. Regardless, youve failed us yet again, @sagaftra.

Alyssa commented on the same social media website: Im just so confused by this. Wasnt the whole point of the strike (besides actors being paid fairly) that they didnt want AI to take over in place of actual living actors? So the strike and all the delays were for nothing? A third commented: [It] Is not incompetence. They know allowing this is going to steal jobs from voice actors. And another: It makes no sense right? Is there any redeeming point in the deal terms or something? What was that whole strike about anyways!?

A further tweet: This is the most disrespectful and underhanded thing you couldve done to the actors and people who fought against this very thing. The fact that nobody seems to have known this vote was even happening just shows how cowardly this decision was.

This is the same SAG that went on a 4 month strike to prevent this ?!!, another individual asked rhetorically.

In response to the anger, the SAG-AFTRA officialdom was forced to issue a further statement, from the unions National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland and Chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee Sarah Elmaleh. The statement defensively obscured the issues and deflected criticism: We want you to be fully informed about the new agreement and to that end we are posting the agreement along with helpful informational materials. This was done after the agreement had been inked.

In response to SAG-AFTRAs initial claim that the Replica deal had been approved by affected members of the unions voiceover performer community, Steve Blum, a Guinness World Records-holder, whose voice is featured in more than 300 game appearances, tweeted: Excuse me? ... Nobody in our community approved this that I know of. Games are the bulk of my livelihood and have been for years. Who are you referring to?

Voice casting director Samantha A. Morrison also angrily derided the unions claim: Approved by affected members of the unions voiceover performer community@sagaftra [is] straight up spreading lies. No voice actor would willingly approve this. AI has no place in voiceover, or the arts in general! Stop lyingshow us the terms, and prepare for another strike.

Greg Baldwin tweeted: I WILL NOT SIGN MY OWN F PINK SLIP! You betrayed us. Few regards, A Voice Actor.

Another voice actor, Veronica Taylor, asked, How has this agreement passed without notice or vote? voice to be used as a training data set? Why cant the actual actor be used for the videogame??? Every job brings a unique opportunity for an actor to  act. Encouraging/allowing AI replacement is a slippery slope downward.

SAG-AFTRA claims the Replica agreement provides new protections for workers, but it does nothing of the sort. While the agreement provides for informed consent to any use of an artists digital voice replica, there are no enforcement mechanisms in place. In the long run, codifying this practice will inevitably result in a decrease in the number of actual actors in favor of digital replicas, thus lowering costs for corporations.

As one voice actor posted, If we dont consent, then these studios will simply hire actors who do. Its the same as any TOS [Terms of Service]. Technically, youre free to not agree to its term, but then you dont get to use the software. Same situation here. Coercion is not consent.

Similarly, near the conclusion of last years strike, Crabtree-Ireland acknowledged that under the new contract companies could ask for an actors consent to have his or her image replicated as a condition of employment: Yes, they can ask you for that. If you cant reach agreement on that, then yes, they can go and hire somebody else instead of you. Again, this is not consent, its simply a form of economic extortion.

The Replica agreement only covers a single studio and only video game voice actors, but as one worker put it on X/Twitter, if SAG-AFTRA officials think Replica building a more useful bank and model of voices wont EVENTUALLY transfer to animation and live-action uses once they dont sound like robots, then they are very dumb.

The announcement of the Replica deal came only five days before Kristalina Georgieva, International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director, issued an analysis of the future of AI and its effects on the world economy entitled AI Will Transform the Global Economy. Lets Make Sure It Benefits Humanity, in which she states that AI will affect almost 40 percent of jobs around the world, replacing some and complementing other.

Georgieva makes clear in the piece that AI will especially affect the economically advanced countries, with up to 60 percent of the workforce being impacted across all industries. She argues that, in most scenarios, AI will likely worsen overall inequality, a troubling trend that policymakers must proactively address to prevent the technology from further stoking social tensions.

As the WSWS has recently explained, AI represents a major advance in technology with the capacity to enormously develop the productivity of labour and thereby provide the basis for social advancement.

But its development under the social relations of capitalism, based on the private ownership of the means of production (including so-called intellectual property) and the extraction of private profit, means it will not have this effect but the reverse.

Actors are rightly enraged by this latest betrayal perpetrated by the well-paid union bureaucrats, who stand at the head of a union in which 85 percent of the membership does not even earn the meagre $26,000 a year required to earn medical benefits and in which 90 percent of the membership at any given time is unemployed.

Since the announcement last week, there have been calls for Duncan Crabtree-Ireland and Fran Drescher to be replaced, but this will not bring about any improvement in artists conditions: replacing one official with another wont solve the problem, which is rooted in the capitalist profit system.

This development fully confirms the WSWS analysis of the deal reached between the giant conglomerates and the actors union in November:

The SAG-AFTRA deal is thoroughly rotten, a shameless betrayal, and many performers already understand that. Over the coming period, many more will come to understand it. Background actors, voice actors, stunt performers fully expect to have many of their jobs wiped out, without the union lifting a finger.

And further:

This underscores the need for actors to build rank-and-file committees to take matters out of the hands of this leadership, which is little more than an extension of management.
Amid growing international pressure on Israel to soften the offensive in Gaza, this Monday in Brussels European Union foreign ministers met to analyze a comprehensive peace plan that has been put on the table by the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy, Josep Borrell. At the summit, the heads of European diplomacy will also meet with the Palestinian and Israeli foreign ministers and with representatives of the key countries in the region to discuss the document. The text, which EL PAIS accessed, proposes holding a preparatory peace conference, with international participation, which will lay the foundations for the definitive negotiation of a two-state solution.

The 12-point plan was sent to European capitals, along with several key players in the Middle East, on the eve of Mondays meeting in Brussels and advanced by other media over the weekend. It insists on the need to prepare a comprehensive Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, in view of the current situation and despite the evident difficulties and uncertainties. The absence of such a vision will only prolong the current violence and lay the groundwork for further radicalization and new conflicts, which represents major security, political and migratory risk for the region and for Europe, the document warns.

In line with his constant emphasis on a two-state solution, the head of European diplomacys plan calls for the parties to live side by side, in peace and security and envisages holding a Preparatory Peace Conference with the Arab allies in the region, the United States, the U.N. and other key actors. Said conference should be accompanied by separate meetings with each of the parties to the conflict, in view of the fact that, for the time being, it is almost impossible to seat them all at the same table and even to convince some parties to start negotiations. The document adds that an initial draft for a peace plan with an agenda for this to be completed in the space of one year should be presented to Israelis and Palestinians.

I think that we have to stop talking about the peace process and start talking more concretely about the two-state solution process, Borrell said at the start of the meeting of ministers. The conference will also discuss the chief of European diplomacys proposal of a mission to protect trade routes in the Red Sea, although no concrete decision is expected.

The Foreign Minister of Luxembourg, Xavier Bettel, described the plan as a step in the right direction, while his Irish counterpart, Micheal Martin, urged the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  who rejects the creation of a Palestinian state  to listen to the vast majority of the world who want a peace and who want a two-state solution. There is no other alternative on the table that is sustainable and that will make for a sustainable peace into the future, Martin added.

The document stresses that Borrells proposed peace plan should include robust security guarantees for Israel and a future independent Palestinian state. Although the parties to the conflict should be consulted constantly throughout the peace process, the document indicates that their willingness to accept a solution should not be an impediment to continuing peace negotiations. Discussions should begin and continue at times when one or another party to the conflict is not willing to participate in the talks, especially in view of the Israeli governments refusal to accept a Palestinian state. However, the final text will have to be negotiated between the two; in order to favor the negotiations, the states and organizations that have participated in the peace process should make clear the consequences they foresee with regard to the acceptance or non-acceptance of the peace plan at that time.

The difficulty in bringing the two main parties to the same negotiating table at this point was made explicit in Brussels on Monday, when Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz did not even mention possible talks or the creation of a Palestinian state when he arrived at his meeting with his EU-27 counterparts. In brief statements to the press, Katz showed photos of some of the youngest Israeli hostages held by Hamas and limited himself to indicating that the return of all Israeli hostages, as well as the recovery of security in Israel, are the two topics on his agenda in the Belgian capital.

In addition to the meeting with Katz, the EU foreign ministers held a breakfast on Monday with their Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, with whom they also plan to have an extended lunch meeting with other key players in the region: their counterparts from Jordan, Ayman Safadi, and Saudi Arabia, Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, as well as the head of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit. In the afternoon, the European ministers invited Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki to sit in on their plenary session before returning to privately discuss a conflict on which the EU has not yet achieved unanimity.

Indeed, while on Friday the 27 EU states approved a new sanctions regime against those who provide financial aid to Hamas, the second part of Borrells proposal  sanctioning violent extremist settlers in the West Bank as well  has not yet achieved the requisite unanimity of all member states. But the French Foreign Minister, Stephane Sejourne, expressed his hope that an agreement on this front could be reached in the coming days.

On Monday, the ministers also discussed the war in Ukraine. Borrell and several ministers insisted that Ukraine can count on the EUs support being as strong as ever upon their arrival at the meeting. Their Ukrainian counterpart, Dmytro Kuleba, participated by teleconference. The fact that we are involved in seeking a solution in the Middle East does not mean that we do not continue to support Ukraine, the head of European diplomacy emphasized. The major decisions, especially about the necessary Ukrainian funding, will be made at the extraordinary summit of heads of state and government set for February 1. At that meeting, they will try to reverse or circumvent the Hungarian veto on approving multi-year financial aid of 50 billion for Ukraine.

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The confirmed death toll in the Israeli governments genocidal onslaught against Gaza officially passed 25,000 this weekend, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health. Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qudra said on Sunday that 178 people had been confirmed killed in the last 24 hours, bringing the confirmed death toll to 25,105. A further 8,000 Palestinians are missing and believed to be dead, and at least 62,681 people have been wounded.

Israeli soldiers overlook the Gaza Strip from a tank, as seen from southern Israel, Friday, Jan. 19, 2024. [AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo]

Israeli air strikes and tank shelling hit the southern city of Khan Younis, bombing Nasser hospital, the largest operational hospital in the Gaza Strip since Israeli troops destroyed Al-Shifa hospital. Snipers have taken positions in high-rise buildings, shooting people on the street below. People in hospital have no place to go, Al Jazeeras Hani Mahmoud reported from Khan Younis. Its street-to-street, house-to-house fighting.

There were also reports of heavy bombings across the northern Gaza strip, including of Gaza City. Five people were killed in an air strike that destroyed a civilian car in Rafah, near the Gaza Strips southern border with Egypt.

The past week since South Africa filed suit against Israel for genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was one of the bloodiest yet, according to Euro-Med Monitor. The humanitarian organization reported that Israeli forces had killed 1,108 people in the last week, including 208 women and at least 390 children. Of the 1,934 people confirmed injured by Israeli attacks this last week, at least 70 percent were women and children.

The Israeli regime is waging a genocidal onslaught against defenseless civilians, aiming to destroy the Palestinian population and render Gaza uninhabitable. Over 1 percent of Gazas population of 2.3 million people have been killed, and over 4 percent are dead, wounded or missing. Over 60 percent of its residential buildings are badly damaged, according to reports by the World Bank and the Times of Israel, and 45 percent are unlivable. According to UN reports, at least one quarter of Gazas population face extreme hunger and over 85 percent have fled their homes.

Palestinians line up for free food during the ongoing Israeli air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip in Rafah, Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Hatem Ali) [AP Photo/Hatem Ali]

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the Israeli onslaught yesterday at a summit of Chinese, African and Latin American officials in the Ugandan capital of Kampala. He 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 tinderbox. We must do all we can to prevent conflict from igniting across the region.

The imperialist powers are, however, signaling their unstinting support for Israels genocide in Gaza, delivering arms without which the Israeli war effort could not continue. Last month, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken invoked emergency powers to force through the delivery of $147.5 million worth in 155mm heavy artillery shells from US arsenals to the Israeli armed forces, bypassing Congressional authorization.

Last week, moreover, the German government approved the supply of 10,000 tank shells to Israel for use against the population of Gaza, while filing a brief at the ICJ denouncing South Africas charge of genocide against the Israeli government.

All the major European powers are implicated in the Gaza genocide. The British government has sold 442 million in arms to Israel since 2015. France, which sells Israel 20 million in military equipment per year and whose president Emmanuel Macron hailed Netanyahu as his friend after the Israeli attack on Gaza began, is sending its Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu to Israel for friendly talks.

There is, however, mounting concern among the NATO powers that, despite Israels unparalleled brutality, its forces have not succeeded in destroying the Hamas government in Gaza. On Sunday, the Wall Street Journal cited US intelligence briefings on the war in Gaza, writing: Israeli forces have killed 20 to 30 percent of Hamass fighters, US intelligence agencies estimate, a toll that falls short so far of Israels goal of destroying the group and shows its resilience after months of war that have laid swaths of the Gaza Strip to ruin.

Confident in the backing of Washington and its imperialist allies, Israeli officials are boasting that they will ignore appeals from the UN and the former colonial countries, and escalate the war.

Over the weekend, they again spelled out their intention to conquer all the occupied Palestinian territories. In a post Saturday on X/Twitter, Netanyahu dismissed empty and cynical calls by US President Joe Biden for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, involving the creation of a Palestinian state. He wrote: I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of [the] Jordan [river]and this is contrary to a Palestinian state.

Also on Saturday, Israeli forces bombed Syrias capital, Damascus, targeting Iranian forces allied to the Syrian government in NATOs 13-year war for regime change in Syria. Irans Mehr News Agency reported that the Revolutionary Guards Syria intelligence chief and four other Iranians were among the dead. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-backed group active in Syria, said the Israeli strike killed 12, including four Syrians, two Lebanese and one Iraqi citizen.

An article Friday in the Washington Post confirmed that US and Israeli officials are intensively discussing plans for a large-scale Israeli assault on Lebanon for the end of the month. The main target of this assault would be the powerful Hezbollah militia allied to Iran.

Israel told Washington in late December that if a long-term border agreement cannot be reached with Lebanon over the next several weeks, according to a Western diplomat and three Lebanese officials, Israel will escalate its fight with Hezbollah  The officials familiar with the talks understood that Israel was eyeing the end of January as a target for coming to an agreement, the Post wrote. It cited a senior US official as saying that the window for negotiations is narrowing.

The Post admitted that Israeli officials, not Hezbollah, are pressing for military escalation. It cited two US officials as saying that Hezbollahs leaders do not want a full-blown war with Israel, but added: There is significant support within Israels defense establishment for a bigger fight with Hezbollah, which senior officials have said may be critical to containing Iranian ambitions in the region.

It cited former Israeli deputy national security adviser Chuck Freilich who advocated rapidly launching a full-scale war with Lebanon: If you believe that war with Hezbollah is inevitable, as many in Israel do, then now is as good a time as any to do it.

The force that can stop the escalation being planned by the NATO imperialist powers and Israels Zionist regime is the international working class. Mass protests by millions have erupted against the genocide in Gaza, with mass marches in London, New York, Washington and in cities across the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the world. Only the mobilization of this social force, in a struggle against imperialism and the Zionist regime, can halt the catastrophic war they are setting into motion.

The signs of growing popular opposition to the war inside Israel itself are of particular significance. On Saturday, thousands marched in Tel Aviv, criticizing Netanyahus policies and calling for new elections.

Several hundred Jewish and Arab Israelis also organized an anti-war protest in Israels third-largest city, Haifa, after appealing a police ban on their demonstration to the Supreme Court of Justice. Protesters marched peacefully and chanted, Refuse to kill, refuse to fight, refuse to murder. Israeli police assaulted the demonstration and arrested one protester.
Lenin addressing a crowd of revolutionary workers in Petrograd in 1919. Trotsky is on the right. [Photo: Wikipedia]

The following remarks were delivered by Peter Schwarz, secretary of the International Committee of the Fourth International, at a meeting organized by the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists, a Trotskyist youth organization in the former Soviet Union.

It is a great honor for me to participate in this meeting of the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists on the 100th anniversary of Lenins death.

The very fact that this meeting is taking place in the former Soviet Union proves that a hundred years of efforts by the Stalinists to turn Lenin into a harmless icon, to mummify and falsify him, as well as those of the anti-communists (including Putin) to demonize him, have failed. Lenin is highly relevant today.

Even its most vehement defenders can no longer deny that global capitalism is in deep crisis.

The social divide between capital and the proletariat has taken on dimensions that even Marx would have found hard to imagine. The term oligarch, coined in the 1990s for the plunderers of Soviet state property, has long since become a global phenomenon. The five richest people in the world own a fortune of $869 billion. They have more than doubled their wealth since 2020, while the majority of the worlds population have become poorer.

Bourgeois democracy is disintegrating under the pressure of growing class tensions. Authoritarian and fascist forms of rule are on the rise everywhere. This is most evident in the US, where the presidential election in autumnif it takes place at allwill be fought between an 82-year-old warmonger and a 78-year-old fascist.

The third world war has already begun. Leading representatives of the imperialist powers insist on escalating their war against Russia in Ukraine until Russia is militarily defeated, even if this means nuclear war.

The genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza is rapidly spreading into a regional conflagration that is being systematically fuelled by the US and its European allies. At the same time, they are pressing ahead with preparations for war against China, whose further economic rise they want to prevent at any price.

Lenins book on Imperialism is one of the most topical writings today. Lenin demonstrated that imperialism is not simply a specific bourgeois policy, but represents a new, the highest stage of capitalisma stage characterized by decay, parasitism and reaction all along the line; in which monopolies have displaced free competition and finance capital dominates over industrial capital; in which the world is completely divided among the imperialist powers and must be redivided by force.

The conclusion Lenin drew from this analysis was as far-sighted as it was bold. He rejected the centrists demand for peace without annexations and instead advocated the transformation of the war into civil war. Capitalism, Lenin concluded, could not be reformed, it had to be overthrown. Moral appeals and pressure on the imperialists to adopt a more peaceful policy could only generate illusions and curb the revolutionary energy of the masses.

Lenin understood that the same objective processes that had led to world war also created the conditions for proletarian revolution. His entire perspective was based on the conclusion that the war and the contradictions of imperialism would drive the masses into revolution.

But while the intensification of the class struggle was an objective, spontaneous process, its outcomei.e., the question of the victory or defeat of the revolutiondepended on the existence of a conscious, proletarian leadership.

No one understood this question as sharply as Lenin; herein lies his unique historical role and his genius as a Marxist. He devoted the first thirty years of his political life to the theoretical and political arming of the proletariat. In a tireless polemic against bourgeois and petty-bourgeois tendencies, he fought for the ideological, political and organizational independence of the working class.

Already in his first writings against the Narodniki, he placed central emphasis on the defense of philosophical materialism. He fought against opportunism in the socialist movement with a rigor and consistency that even Trotsky and Rosa Luxemburg did not understand initially, when he broke with the Mensheviks in 1903. Lenin understood that opportunism was not simply a wrong policy but embodied the influence of hostile class forces on the proletariat.

Thus, Lenin created the Bolshevik Party, which led the Russian proletariat to power in 1917. Bolshevism did not mean the power of the apparatus over the membership, as it did under Stalin, but the relentless struggle for programmatic clarity, which gave the party an unprecedented clout and unity of action.

Lenin was an internationalist through and through. He did not believe for a second that socialism could be built in a single country. With the April Theses of 1917 at the latest, he endorsed the theory of permanent revolution of Leon Trotsky, who had been advocating the establishment of workers power in the Tsarist Empire for ten years and inextricably linked this with the world socialist revolution.

After the victory of the October Revolution, Lenin and Trotskydespite the civil war and massive economic difficultiesconcentrated much of their energy on reorganizing the world socialist movement and building the Third International.

Lenins death at the age of only 53 was a tragic event that had an impact on world history. There is much to suggest that it would have been different if Lenin had lived longer. In 1945, at the end of the Second World War, he would have been only 75 years old.

The rise of Stalin and the bureaucracy he epitomized was based on strong objective factorsthe economic backwardness and international isolation of the Soviet Union. But given that these difficulties and this isolation were exacerbated and reproduced by Stalins policies, Lenins enormous authority could have helped to change course.

After the liquidation of the Soviet Union by Stalins heirs, it has become impossible to deny that only the Trotskyist Left Opposition and the Fourth International defended and developed Lenins legacy. Even Vladimir Putin, the former KGB agent and current president of the Russian oligarchs, recognizes this when he denounces Lenin and Trotsky and praises Stalin.

Since 1953, only the International Committee of the Fourth International has defended Lenins legacy. Pabloism and all the other revisionist tendencies that broke with Trotskyism since 1939 had one thing in common: their rejection of the struggle for the theoretical and political independence of the working class.

They all hated Lenins classic text What Is to Be Done? In this work, Lenin explains that the spontaneous consciousness of the working class is bourgeois consciousness and that the revolutionary party must fight for socialist consciousness among workers.

The revisionists vehemently rejected this. They replaced the struggle for the independence of the working class with tactical maneuvers and adaptation to Stalinist, reformist and bourgeois-nationalist forces that dominated the masses under the conditions of the post-war boom. Today they have all moved far to the right and openly joined the camp of the bourgeoisie. The ICFI is the only political tendency that unconditionally defends and develops Lenins legacy.

The decay of capitalism and the objective preconditions for the world socialist revolution are much more advanced today than they were in Lenins time. In large parts of the world that were still economically backward and agrarian at the time, there is now a proletariat of hundreds of millions. And US imperialism, which gave world capitalism a temporary respite after the Second World War based on the betrayal of Stalinism, is now at the centre of the global crisis. The fact that the ICFI has one of its strongest sections in the US is itself an expression of its strength.

The revolutionary struggle of the working class is developing around the world as a cohesive and united movement. Since the Egyptian revolution of 2011, the class struggle has taken on ever more intense forms. This manifests itself in a sharp increase in economic strikes and mass protests against social cuts and war. Millions around the world are taking to the streets against the genocide in Gaza.

The ICFI is being built as the conscious political leadership of this objective movement. It counterposes to the capitalist policy of imperialist war the class-based strategy of socialist world revolution. This is the timeliness and significance of Lenins legacy.
On Sunday, 150,000 protesters took part in 160 demonstrations across France against President Emmanuel Macrons immigration law. The fascistic law is now being reviewed in the Constitutional Council which is due to publish a final decision on Thursday. It was voted through the National Assembly by a parliamentary alliance between Macrons Renaissance party, the Republican party and the neo-fascist National Rally (NR) of Marine Le Pen.

Sunday's demonstration at Paris' Trocadero Square

The struggle against Macrons immigration law intersects with mass international protests against the imperialist-backed Israeli regimes genocide in Gaza, and rail strikes, anti-fascist protests and farmers protests in neighboring Germany. The far-right agenda of war, social austerity, and anti-immigrant chauvinism imposed by all the imperialist governments faces mounting international opposition in the working class.

Macrons immigration law restricts social benefits for immigrants, including familial and housing support during periods of unemployment. Parliament will set immigration quotas for the next three years, determining how many migrants will be granted entry per annum. Although the complete abolition of healthcare for ill foreign nationals was removed from the final draft of the bill, the government pledged to review this issue later in 2024.

The law also restricts birthright citizenship. Those born in France will no longer automatically receive French citizenship. Instead they will have to apply for citizenship at 16 years old. Those convicted of any crime before 16 will be barred from citizenship all together. The conditions for family reunification have also been tightened, including a requirement of proof of sufficient financial resources to host a spouse.

WSWS journalists spoke to protesters at the rally in Paris, which was attended by Fabien Roussel, the leader of the Stalinist French Communist Party, Manon Aubry of Jean-Luc Melenchons France Unbowed (LFI) party, as well as top union officials.

Adama, an undocumented worker and member of the CGT union, told the WSWS: There are ideas from the former National Front [now Le Pens National Rally] which were taken up by Emmanuel Macron. We all know the reality that without immigrants the country would be paralysed. Migrants are workers, they contribute to all social security funds, they participate massively in the economic life of this country.

Adama carrying a placard stating: "What would a day without immigrants be like? They work here, they live here, they stay here. Give legal status to all undocumented workers. Long live solidarity between nationalities!"

Adama criticized the political deceit of Macron, who pledged to oppose the far right only to adopt a fascistic law against immigration. He said, But to satisfy the far right, to satisfy the racists, those who want to gain power at all costs denounce immigrants every day, even those who work and do not live on [state] aid. I wake up at 4 a.m. to work. I participate in the economic life of the country, and I am linked to France by history.

Adama also stressed his solidarity with the international movement against the Israeli regimes war and genocide in Gaza, saying, I feel solidarity for all the oppressed. The Palestinian people is oppressed.  One can win a war, but one never wins through war.

The WSWS also spoke to Martin, a doctor. Martin explained, I came today because I am both a doctor and an immigrant. Removing State Medical Aid (AME) seems to me to be something very inhumane and counterproductive. Even if they took the aid out of the [current] law they will add it again later, its a political tactic. Medically it is unjustified and dangerous.

Martin carrying a sign reading: "Against the killing of the State Medical Aid"

This [measure] is contrary to medical rules and the commitment of doctors and caregivers in general. So I think they [doctors] would continue to treat them, Im sure of it, but with what means, I dont know.

Significantly, yesterdays protest was boycotted by the Sans-Papiers (Undocumented Workers) Collective (CSP), which had organised a protest against the immigration law of over 40,000 throughout France on January 14. The collective criticized the union officials refusal to endorse its earlier protest and their decision to drop other demands for undocumented workers rights that it had put forward at the previous demonstration.

In its statement announcing the boycott, the CSP attacked the French union bureaucracies who called the January 21 protest, stating: Where it is necessary to build a unity of struggle, the initiators of the call for the January 21 protest have sowed the seeds of division with those who have been fighting for months against this racist law. For us, the struggle for equal rights in society must translate into equal rights in the organisation of the struggle itself.

It continued,The demonstrations of January 14 were initiated by the Sans-Papiers collectives of the Paris region and organised with 500 organisations, many of them local structures. The initiatives in around thirty cities involved more than 40,000 people. These demonstrations on the 14th showed that there was a response unifying undocumented people and those with papers (French people and immigrants).

The collective has also endorsed calls for a strike against the law scheduled on January 25 and for a new set of protests, independent of the union leaderships, on February 3.

The CSPs boycott is an initial expression of mounting working class opposition to the staggering treachery of the union bureaucracies and their pseudo-left political allies. Terrified of a movement threatening their own place in the ruling establishment, these forces shut down and betrayed last years mass strikes and protests against Macrons overwhelmingly unpopular pension cuts. They have also worked for years to stifle working class opposition in France to anti-immigrant measures such as the European Unions murderous Fortress Europe policy, which has led to the drowning of over 20,000 migrants in the Mediterranean over the last decade.

The decisive question facing workers in France, as protests erupt in neighboring Germany and around the world, is building an international movement of the working class.

Immigrant workers and youth cannot overcome the threats they face within a national framework, under the control of national union bureaucracies. They face escalating imperialist wars, militarization of society, social austerity and fascistic anti-immigrant policies that are coordinated by the imperialist powers across Europe and internationally. These policies can only be fought on an international scale, against the capitalist class that imposes them. In this struggle, immigrants best allies are their fellow workers across Europe and the world.

The growing distrust and opposition to the bureaucracies among ever-broader layers of workers and youth point to the urgent need to build rank-and-file organizations of struggle, committees of action responsible to their members and independent of the union executives. Such organizations are essential to overcome the sabotage of workers struggles by the bureaucracy, unify these struggles internationally and prepare a direct struggle of the international working class for power, the overthrow of capitalism and the building of socialism.
On Friday, as the official death toll in Gaza rose above 25,000, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) chapters at Columbia University in New York held a protest under the slogan, Hands off Yemen and Gaza! No more tuition for the war machine. The event took place outside of the Low Library on campus with around 300 students and faculty attending. It was sponsored by Columbia University Apartheid Divest, a coalition of more than 100 student groups formed in the aftermath of the proscription of SJP and JVP on campus last semester.

Columbia University students rally against the genocide in Gaza, Friday January 19, 2024.

The rally took place amid mounting attacks on democratic rights and academic freedom on college campuses throughout the US. In the lead-up to the beginning of the semester, Barnard College at Columbia updated their student guidelines, stating, no form of protest (vocal or silent) will be acceptable inside campus buildings. In response to recent actions by the university, a faculty-led Columbia Academic Freedom Council was formed last week.

The suppression of protests on campus is not being limited to the indoors. At the start of the Friday rally, a Columbia administration representative ordered the students gathering outside the protest to disband, warning them that the action was unauthorized by the university. The representative handed out flyers warning students that they could be suspended for the rest of the semester if they did not comply. Students courageously ignored this shameful attempt to shut down their protest.

In their chants and speeches, protesters, including students and faculty, condemned the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza, US imperialism and the attacks on Yemen, all border walls and apartheid, and Columbias actions and investments supporting genocide. Other chants highlighted the radicalization of students over the genocide: The revolution has begun/Your students have woken up.

We are reading the names of colleagues of ours at the universities in Gazaevery single one of which has been destroyedwho were killed between the 7th of October and the 7th of January, a representative from the Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine at Columbia, Barnard, and Teachers College said.

A student speaker commented on the attacks on democratic rights on college campuses by right-wing forces. It is incomprehensible that we are being manipulated into distracting arguments over the respectability politics of our chants and slogans while Israeli officials openly call for genocide.  We want you all to know, we do not care about the feelings of oppressors. We will not water down our rhetoric to be passable to genocide-apologists and colonizers. To Zionists, the issue is not how we demand liberation, it is the fact that we dare to demand it at all.

A small counter-demonstration of 30 Zionists attempted to disrupt the protest and antagonize students with noisemakers and music.

Following the speeches, anti-genocide protesters marched and chanted around campus and then reassembled at the library steps for concluding speeches. It was during this time that two Columbia General Studies students and former IDF soldiers sprayed the crowd with something resembling a chemical spray called Skunk.

Skunk is a foul-smelling chemical which has been described as a mix of sewage and rotting corpses that can cause severe nausea, skin and eye irritation. The IDF claims to use it for crowd control, but in reality, it is deployed to harass and inflict collective punishment on Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank.

The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) strongly condemns this attack on students democratic rights.

A delegation from the IYSSE attended the Columbia rally and spoke with Robin, a student, about the situation at Columbia. Their name has been changed to preserve their anonymity. This interview was conducted before the Skunk attack took place.

Last semester, [Columbia] sent me a conduct notice for talking about my dead family in Gaza. I spoke about how 14 of my family members were bombed and they sent me a disciplinary notice. And when I tried to appeal it with the administration, they couldnt find anything that I did wrong. But they still sent a conduct notice to intimidate me. Students here are overwhelmingly pro-Palestine and that scares donors. The donors do not like seeing the protests, so Columbia is clamping down on student speech and student expression by intimidation, sending people conduct notices, trying to get people in trouble, academic sanctions, etc. I went to [a state school] for my undergrad and I had significantly more freedom of speech there compared to Columbia.

Robin also spoke about reports showing that the Israeli government has been engaged in an influencing campaign on college campuses.

Theyre trying to get people [fired]. They are naming and shaming. You can see that from websites like Canary Mission. Theyre paying influencers and speakers to show up on campus who represent the Israeli occupation. A lot of the Zionists here, a lot of them are former IDF. General Studies College at Columbia has an exchange program with the IDF.

Robin then addressed the role of Columbia Business School Assistant Professor and far-right Zionist Shai Davidai, who called for the eradication of pro-Palestinian student organizations at US universities.

Hes been harassing us for months, calling us pro-terror, all kinds of stuff and he doesnt face any kind of consequences. The school has done nothing. Ive reported him to university administration. Other faculty have tried to talk to him about his behavior. I even tried to meet with him and he wanted to argue with me over email. Columbia lets people like that teach and if theres no consequences, frankly, its just really disappointing. I am taking out student loans to be called a terrorist every day. And, frankly, if I wasnt halfway through my program, I would transfer. Its been an extremely frustrating experience as a Palestinian-American student.

The day after Fridays protest, Davidai took to social media to complain about the doxxing of one of the individuals responsible for the chemical attack, ludicrously stating, Please share to let the world know how little Columbia cares about Jewish and Israeli students, faculty and staff.

An IYSSE member spoke of the need to orient the growing anti-war movement towards the working class internationally, not towards the Biden administration and asked for Robins thoughts about this perspective.

A lot of Americans are frustrated with how the Biden administration is handling the situation and understandably so. People are struggling to pay their bills. Theyre worrying about how theyre going to cover rent, people are getting second and third jobs. And the US is like, Oh, we cant help you with that. We cant send out another stimulus check. But we can send $14 billion to the Israeli occupation in order to bomb Palestinians. Its horrifying. Im not necessarily surprised, given how much our government has invested in the military industrial complex. And how many people in Congress personally benefit, their stocks personally benefit from war, from these weapons manufacturers. The day after I found out about my family members dying in Gaza, Biden doubted the death toll. So thats not something thats easily forgivable. Im far from the only Palestinian student whos experienced loss in their family. One of my Palestinian friends here, they lost 20 family members. All the cousins on their moms side are dead. Biden doesnt care. They dont care. They dont see us as human. You can see that by how they talk to us. You can see that by the messaging that they use. They dont see our lives as a value. And so a lot of us are really done with Joe Biden, a lot of people are really done with the Democratic Party. I think well see a lot of people registering as independent voting for third parties or maybe just staying home, you dont know.

When the IYSSE raised Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders support for Israels right to defend itself, his refusal to call for a ceasefire and his recent backing of the US bombing of Yemen, along with the refusal of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) to issue a single statement opposing the attacks on democratic rights on campuses, Robin said, No, they havent. Im not really surprised. They added:

To be honest, I dont really have faith in our institutions, I have faith in the people. I mean, the amount of students who are out here in the snow, in the coldits really inspiring. We are going to win. I believe that in my heart, I really, really do. I know that time is on our side. This is not sustainable for them. As a Palestinian, Ive never experienced this type of support for Palestine in my life, ever. I really do believe we are at a turning point.

After the protest was over, Robin commented on the Zionist skunk attack on students, stating, The people who did this were Columbia students who served in the IDF. This was premeditated and done with the aim to hurt students. Columbia needs to take immediate action; this behavior is unacceptable on a college campus.
At a large pro-Palestinian student and faculty protest at Columbia University in New York City on Friday, two Zionists sprayed students with something resembling a chemical weapon called Skunk. Both individuals, who were wearing fake keffiyehs, have been identified as Columbia General Studies students and former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers.

The attack took place during an eventHands off Yemen and Gaza! No more tuition for the war machinethat was organized by the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) chapters at Columbia University outside the Low Library. Despite freezing temperatures and a systematic campaign of intimidation targeting opponents of the state policy of genocide in Gaza, the protest drew around 300 participants.

Students and faculty at Columbia University protest against the genocide in Gaza, in New York City, Friday, January 19, 2024

Victims of the attack reported on social media that they were unable to rid themselves of the stench on their clothes and bodies two days after the attack and after visiting Urgent Care. The Columbia SJP has demanded that Columbia initiate an investigation into the attack, saying the action is illegal under US law and constitutes a hate crime.

A Columbia student present at the protest told the World Socialist Web Site, The people who did this were Columbia students who served in the IDF. This was premeditated and done with the aim to hurt students. Columbia needs to take immediate action. This behavior is unacceptable on a college campus.

The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) condemns in the strongest possible terms Fridays attack on students opposing the Israeli genocide in Gaza. We support the demand by the SJP for an investigation and call on students and workers at Columbia University, in New York City and across the US to rally in defense of the student protesters. The IYSSE also condemns the media blackout of the attack and encourages students to share this article on social media and at other campuses and workplaces throughout the city, nationally and internationally.

Skunk is a malodorant crowd-control weapon used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). It was first deployed in 2008 against Palestinian protesters on the West Bank. The military-grade chemical leaves a strong, lingering smell on its targets, which has been likened to that of a rotting corpse from a stagnant sewer.

While it is marketed as a non-lethal form of crowd control, many human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, BTselem, the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, Physicians for Human Rights, and the International Network of Civil Liberties Organizations, have denounced its use, describing it as a form of collective punishment with torturous and humiliating after-effects that severely impact victims. The manufacturing company, Odortec, sells a special soap to counteract the effects of the chemical, but it is only available to police authorities.

One comment on X/Twitter directed to the Columbia University administration stated, This is a direct result of the incitement by your unhinged & now clearly dangerous professor Shai Davidai, terming everyone protesting Israels war in Gaza terrorist sympathizers.

Davidai is a Columbia Business School assistant professor and prominent Zionist who has called for the eradication of pro-Palestinian student organizations at US universities. This fascistic rant has been shared by the official X/Twitter account of the Israeli government and a large number of far-right accounts.

A Palestinian Columbia University student, Robin, who has lost 14 family members in the Gaza genocide, spoke to the WSWS about the role of Davidai. Robin said:

Hes been harassing us for months, calling us pro-terror, all kinds of stuff, and he doesnt face any kind of consequences. The school has done nothing Columbia lets people like that teach, and if theres no consequences, frankly, its just really disappointing. I am taking out student loans to be called a terrorist every day.

The physical attack on protestors at Fridays event marks a new stage in the sweeping, bipartisan assault on pro-Palestinian speech and assembly, orchestrated at the highest levels by the US and Israeli states and their economic, political and military establishments.

As the IYSSE wrote in its December statement, Oppose the state-organized witch hunt of opponents of genocide on US campuses!:

The message is clear: Anyone who dares voice opposition to or even question the policies of the Israeli state is to be silenced, driven from the campuses, blacklisted and attacked and hounded by far-right mobs on social media and at campuses and workplaces. The central aims of this witch hunt are twofold: First, the destruction of free speech on the campuses and beyond, and, second, the complete subordination of schools and universities to the interests of the state, the military and the aims of US foreign policy.

Columbia University was one of the first institutions in the country to ban the SJP and JVP in the fall semester. Both organizations have played a prominent role in organizing protests against the genocide in Gaza that have drawn hundreds of thousands of participants.

Other universities, including George Washington University in Washington D.C. and Rutgers University in nearby New Jersey, quickly followed suit.

The opening salvo of this campaign of repression targeting the SJP and JVP came in late October, when fascistic Republican Governor Ron DeSantis ordered the organizations to cease their activities within the entire Florida State University system.

Then, in early December, University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill resigned amid a McCarthyite-style witch hunt led by the fascistic, Trump-supporting New York Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik against her as well as against Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) presidents Claudine Gay and Sally Kornbluth respectively. Stefanik, herself an adherent of the antisemitic Great Replacement Theory, ludicrously claimed that the university presidents supported calls for the genocide of Jews.

In early January, after initially resisting the calls by Stefanik for her to step down from her position, Gay resigned in the wake of a smear campaign that enjoyed crucial support from the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, and involved far-right figures like Christopher F. Rufo, an adviser to DeSantis.

The campaign to eliminate freedom of speech on US campuses is led by the American financial oligarchy, the Democratic Biden administration, the military and the Israeli state. In a phenomenon called donor revolt, wealthy contributors to US academic institutions have withdrawn their funding from institutions which fail to sufficiently crack down on anti-Zionist and anti-genocide speech and assembly.

In early November, billionaire Bill Ackman called for the doxxing of all students who participate in pro-Palestinian activity, so that companies could blackball them from employment. At Columbia University, students as well as faculty who have spoken out against the genocideand the attack on freedom of speechhave been doxxed.

In late-November, Ynet.com, an outlet of Yedioth Ahronoth, one of Israels foremost newspapers, published an account of the creation of an antisemitism task force by the Israeli Foreign Ministry, led by Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, working with the Diaspora Affairs Ministry. Falsely equating pro-Palestinian assemblies with antisemitism, the article details the task forces avowed aims.

They include shaming and pressuring donors to withdraw their investments from campuses where antisemitism is not addressed and promote economic sanctions against universities receiving federal or state public funding. The goals of the task force include inflicting economic and employment consequences on antisemitic students and [p]ublicizing the names of those generating antisemitism on campuses  both students and faculty.

The encouragement of fascist forces in the US as part of the campaign to justify the Gaza genocide has already resulted in the murder of a 6-year-old boy in Chicago and the shooting of three Palestinian-American students in Vermont.

The physical attack at Columbia University marks a dangerous new stage in the assault on the democratic rights of the working class more broadly. The fact that former IDF soldiers appear to have deployed the same weapons against student protesters in the US that they previously deployed against Palestinians under military occupation underscores the intrinsic link between the crimes of US imperialism and its allies abroad and the attack on democratic rights at home.

We therefore call for the broadest possible support for the students under attack at Columbia University by workers and youth across New York City and beyond. They must demand that the Columbia University administration investigate and punish those responsible for the attackincluding those who have incited violence against opponents of the genocide. The club status for the SJP and JVP must be immediately reinstated, with no conditions attached, and their rightand that of the entire student body and faculty and staffto freedom of speech must be ensured.
A state-backed witch-hunt has targeted renowned French actor Gerard Depardieu since last year and especially since the outbreak of the Israeli regimes genocidal war on Gaza in October. Although Depardieu has been convicted of no crimes, major media outlets and parties promoted as left in official French politics are denouncing him as a sexual predator and calling for his films to be taken off the air. Given Depardieus vast filmography, this amounts to a call to retroactively censor many of the most influential French films of the last half century.

French actor Gerard Depardieu Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013. [AP Photo/RIA-Novosti, Mikhail Klimentyev]

None of the accusations against Depardieu has been evaluated before a jury. The actor was first accused of rape by a then anonymous woman in 2018 and charged in 2020. At the start of 2024, the prosecutors investigation is still on going. In 2021, the accuser, Charlotte Arnould, revealed her identity to promote her case in the media. Arnould, who is the daughter of friends of Depardieu, claims to have been raped twice by Depardieu during separate visits to his home.

In April last year 13 women, many of whom were anonymous, made unsubstantiated allegations of sexual violence against Depardieu in an article published by Mediapart. Since then, 12 of the 13 women have refused to open legal cases due to a lack of evidence to present to court.

The actor has denied all accusations made against him. In an open letter published in Le Figaro last October, he wrote: I can no longer consent to what I hear, what I have read about myself for several months  I have never, ever abused a woman.

Prosecutors have not managed to construct a case to bring him to trial, even though many of the allegations against him supposedly took place in front of entire film crews. Arnoulds legal team have been chasing Depardieu in the courts for five years without avail. The actress filed a criminal rape case against Depardieu that was dropped in 2019 for lack of evidence. Then in 2020, she filed a new civil case, which would only leave the accused liable for financial compensation.

Depardieu opened a counter-case in 2022 to have the charge against him dropped, but this was refused by a judge who argued there was still scope for the prosecutor to gather more evidence. As of 2024, the case still has not been brought before the court. A #MeToo campaign against Depardieu has thus continued the last 5 years without any substantial evidence ever having been made public.

This campaign received direct support from President Emmanuel Macrons government in December, when France2 state television broadcast a documentary denouncing the actor. An episode of the Complement dEnquete program titled The Fall of the Ogre targeted Depardieu.

The documentary did not in fact feature any new evidence pertaining to the allegations against Depardieu. Rather, it centered on clips recorded while Depardieu visited North Korea in 2018. At a horse-riding school, Depardieu crudely explained to the camera his belief that women are sexually excited by horse-riding, claims they are all sluts and then points to a young girl riding a horse and remarks, shes enjoying it.

Depardieu has a well-deserved reputation for being hotheaded, a heavy drinker, and is capable of making tasteless remarks. However, such remarks do not constitute a crime, nor do they constitute evidence of the validity of the various charges brought against him.

Since the release of the documentary, however, Depardieu has been stripped of his honorary Belgian citizenship and the national order of Quebec. His award of the French Legion of Honour is currently under review by the Macron government. Depardieus films have also been pulled from the Swiss public broadcaster.

In mid-December, then culture minister Rima Abdul-Malak said Depardieus behavior shames France. France Televisions announced that it will not air two Depardieu movies that were scheduled to air during the Cannes Film Festival.

The state campaign against Depardieu has received broad support from the upper-middle class feminist milieu which dominates pseudo-left politics. Manuel Bompard and Mathilde Panot from Jean-Luc Melenchons Unsubmissive France (LFI) have both called for Depardieus Legion of Honor award to be stripped.

The anti-Depardieu hysteria seizing the political establishment, major media and #MeToo circles reflects the pro-imperialist, essentially right-wing character of this brand of gender identity politics.

Israels far-right regime is slaughtering tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, with over 16,000 Palestinian women and children dead. Macron is hailing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as his friend and is pressing to escalate NATOs war with Russia. Yet the Israeli regime and its backers are hailed in capitalist media, while Depardieu is attacked as a monster or an ogre over as-yet unsubstantiated allegations by a dozen women.

Indeed, a major element of the campaign against Depardieu is the medias bitter hostility to his friendship with countries targeted by French and NATO imperialism. Depardieu became a Russian citizen in 2013 and has met Russian President Vladimir Putin. Two years later, he said the United States has constantly destroyed others and that if the Europeans stopped listening to the Americans, well, Id be a lot happier.

A recent Le Monde editorial denouncing Depardieu reflects this intersection of French imperialisms geostrategic agenda and its gender identity politics agenda targeting the film industry. It denounces Depardieus detestable and unworthy behavior for being comforting to the most reactionary part of public opinion, particularly to men who consider women's speech as an intolerable challenge to their domination.

The editorial then argues that Depardieu should be publicly disgraced because of his association with Russia: To proclaim pride in a man who regularly flaunts his contempt for France and his admiration for Vladimir Putin, boasts of his tax exemptions and claims to be still Russian despite the war against Ukraine is aberrant.

These calls to censor Depardieus films for reasons of sexual or great-power politics have the most far-reaching and reactionary implications, as he is arguably the most internationally-recognisable face of French cinema in the last four decades. One cannot evaluate the content of such calls based only on an actors provocative comments or friendships with reactionary capitalist heads of state, like Putin. Such an evaluation must begin, in reality, with the films themselves.

Depardieus filmography includes over 170 titles. He has starred in a number of significant historical films such as The Last Metro (1980) and Danton (1983), film versions of literary classics like Emile Zolas Germinal (1993) and Edmond de Rostands Cyrano de Bergerac (1990), and popular comedies like the English-language Green Card (1990) and the Asterix et Obelix series. He has also played in dozens of stage and TV productions over his career.

Gerard Depardieu and Robert De Niro in 1900 (1976)

Why do French media and parliamentary politicians linked to the Macron government or the union bureaucracies not want Depardieus films to be seen?

Allies of Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, a sympathizer of the Nazi-collaborationist Action francaise who runs Frances brutal riot police, do not want workers to see The Last Metro, about a theater company hiding its Jewish director in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II. Nor do they wish them to see him play in Green Card as an immigrant facing US immigration authorities. Nationalist union bureaucrats doubtless are not eager for workers to see Germinal, about a miners strike in which Depardieus character is killed by French troops who open fire on the strikers.

And the last thing LFI politicians would want is for Depardieus portrayal of Georges Danton during the French revolution to make masses of people think of revolution. The contrast between Danton (whose motto was Audacity, Yet More Audacity, and Always Audacity) and LFIs record is as instructive for workers as it is embarrassing for them.

That is to say, the silencing of Depardieus films does not serve the interests of left-wing or revolutionary forces, but the political agenda of reactionary, militarist and fascistic forces.

Principled artists have spoken out against the witch hunt targeting Depardieu. Dozens of French actors, including a number of actresses who starred in films alongside Depardieu, signed an open letter denouncing his public lynching. Actress Catherine Deneuve (The Last Metro, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, Belle de jour), who published a letter in 2018 criticizing #MeToo, also defended Depardieu.

Deneuve told Society magazine: That names [of the accused] are immediately, after a complaint, associated with the word rape in the press, I find it shockingwhether it is Gerard Depardieu, whom I like very much, or someone else Before, there was a certain rigor with this kind of information, whereas now, it comes in a continuous stream into phones, it is repeated morning and evening on the television news.

Raphaelle Remy-Lelou, a Green who leads the Dare Feminism! collective predictably slandered artists like Deneuve who defend Depardieus democratic rights as supporting a culture of rape.

Class-conscious workers and all principled defenders of democratic rights will oppose this witch hunt against Depardieu and insist that workers and youth have the right to see his films.
Vladimir Lenin

Yesterday marked the 100th anniversary of the death of Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, known as Lenin. Lenin ranks among the most remarkable figures in world history. He was the theoretical and political genius who founded the Bolshevik Party and led a revolution that not only transformed Russia and created the Soviet Union, but gave an immense impulse to all the revolutionary political struggles of the 20th century.

Lenins untimely death on January 21, 1924, at the age of 53, came 10 months after he suffered a devastating stroke, in March 1923. It was his third stroke in just over a year, and it removed him from political activity. Though there were some signs of recovery in the summer and early autumn of 1923, which gave rise to hopes that he would be able to resume some level of political activity, these were dashed by the fourth and fatal stroke.

Lenins death was a political tragedy that had disastrous consequences for the fate of the Soviet Union and the world revolution. It came at a critical point. After the stroke in March, Trotsky came under escalating attack in the political leadership of the Bolshevik Party. Stalin, Zinoviev and Kamenev formed an unprincipled faction within the Politburo (the Triumvirate). Following the establishment of the Left Opposition in October 1923, Stalin led an increasingly ferocious campaign against Trotsky, which included efforts to misrepresent and falsify the differences that had existed between Lenin and Trotsky prior to 1917. These differences had been resolved in the course of the revolution.

One cannot state with certainty what would have happened if Lenin had not died in early 1924. However, it is undeniable that the death of Lenin left Trotsky isolated, depriving him of his most powerful ally in the struggle against the bureaucratic reaction, personified by Stalin, to the revolutionary internationalism of the October Revolution.

In the final years of his life, even as his health deteriorated, Lenin had initiated a struggle against the developing nationalist and bureaucratic degeneration within the Soviet state apparatus and Bolshevik Party. In late December 1922, Lenin began writing what would go down in history as his Last Testament. This included an addendum, written on January 4, 1923, calling on the leadership of the Bolshevik Party to remove Stalin from the post of general secretary.

Lenins Testament coincided with moves to establish a bloc with Trotsky on critical questions related to Soviet policy: the defense of the state monopoly on foreign trade, opposition to the growth of Great Russian chauvinism within the party and the fight against bureaucratism. It was only the stroke he suffered in March 1923 that prevented Lenin from launching an open struggle, alongside Trotsky, at the Twelfth Congress of the Bolshevik Party, which took place a month later.

Moreover, Lenins influence and political leadership in the Communist International in these critical years would have shifted the international situation in favor of world revolution, profoundly undermining the nationalist reaction within the Soviet Union itself. If Lenin had been alive and politically active, he would have waged a pitched battle against the nationalist and anti-Marxist theory of socialism in one country, advanced by Stalin and Bukharin in 1924.

In the aftermath of Lenins death, the developing Stalinist apparatus would not only mummify his corpse, but also his ideas. In their campaign against Trotsky, Stalin and his allies treated Lenins thinking in the most formalistic manner, tearing quotes out of context in a way that completely belied Lenins own methodology.

Trotsky, in an essay he was working on at the time of his assassination by a Stalinist agent in August 1940, addressed the complex relationship between objective developments, revolutionary leadership and individuals, drawing on Lenins own role in the Russian Revolution. Opposing those who argued that without Lenin, the October Revolution would have taken place just the same, Trotsky replied:

But that is not so. Lenin represented one of the living elements of the historical process. He personified the experience and the perspicacity of the most active section of the proletariat. His timely appearance on the arena of the revolution was necessary in order to mobilize the vanguard and provide it with an opportunity to rally the working class and the peasant masses. Political leadership in the crucial moments of historical turns can become just as decisive a factor as is the role of the chief command during the critical moments of war. [The Class, the Party and the Leadership]

Lenins role was decisive in the spring of 1917 in reorienting the Bolshevik Party to the conquest of power. With his April Theses, Lenin adopted Trotskys Theory of Permanent Revolution and set the party on a new political course that led to the October Revolution.

In the aftermath of Lenins death, his political ideas and conceptions were developed by Trotsky and the Left Opposition, while the Stalinist faction represented the unfolding reaction against the program of world socialist revolution upon which the Russian Revolution was based. Trotskys fight to maintain the historical continuity of Bolshevismthat is, genuine revolutionary internationalism and Marxismculminated in the founding of the Fourth International in 1938.

This legacy now assumes immense significance in what is clearly a new period of disintegration of the bourgeois orderof the normalization of genocide and world warand of the resurgence of class conflict throughout the world. In this new revolutionary period, Lenin will again be seen as a monumental historical figure.

For a fuller examination of the life and ideas of Vladimir Lenin, we recommend the following essays by WSWS International Editorial Board Chairman David North:
The Health Workers Rank-and-File Committee (HWRFC) in Australia met last Wednesday and unanimously passed a resolution denouncing the victimisation of health workers speaking out against the genocide in Gaza. The January 17 resolution, which is published below, is a powerful response to the systematic and vicious witch-hunting of health workers by pro-Zionist forces. It calls for health workers across Australia and internationally to circulate the resolution amongst their colleagues and send messages of support to the HWRFC.

Health workers protest Israels attack on Gaza hospital in Melbourne on October 19, 2023

Wednesdays meeting, which was attended by doctors, nurses, aged care and mental health workers, and hospital services employees, began with a brief report on the rising number of Covid-19 infections and the deepening crisis in public health in Australia. It then reviewed the horrendous impact of the ongoing Israeli military attacks on Gaza.

HWRFC member and World Socialist Web Site writer Stephen Griffiths told the meeting that the health system in Gaza had all but collapsed following sustained Israeli military attacks over the past three months. Some 374 health workers have been killed, he said, and currently there were only 1,400 hospital beds for Gazas 2.5 million population.

Griffiths noted that health workers in Australia have held vigils on a weekly or fortnightly basis opposing these war crimes and voicing their concerns through petitions, meetings and on social media. He then referred to a WSWS article published that day which revealed that many of these workers have been targeted by pro-Israeli elements, bogusly accusing them of supporting the murder of Israelis, hating Jews, and being terrorist sympathisers.

Last month, these right-wing forces launched a petition calling on the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) to prohibit health practitioners from using the slogan from the river to the sea, claiming it to be antisemitic.

Two members of the Australia and New Zealand Doctors for Palestine Facebook group in attendance spoke about their experiences.

One Sydney general practitioner suggested that health workers needed a coordinated, unifying stance to oppose all attempts to silence workers.

There has to be an international campaign [against the targeting of health workers], which is not just happening in Australia but internationally, she said.

The other doctor said: Our group was formed because there had been silencing across all other medical forums with people being removed for just asking about the charities they could donate to

Weve been hitting our head against a brick wall every step of the way when it comes to unions or medical colleges.

She said the group was aware of at least 13 health workers reported to AHPRA and explained that one pro-Zionist social media page had issued a public call for volunteers to help report on health workers speaking out against the Israeli assault on Gaza. Its a systematic effort to make vexatious complaints, she added. Women of colour, especially of Islamic background, are being targeted when it comes to these notifications.

After further discussion the HWRFC meeting developed and then unanimously passed the following resolution:

This meeting of the Health Workers Rank-and-File Committee condemns the doxxing and victimisation of doctors and other health workers in Australia by Zionists and other extreme-right elements who have falsely accused them of antisemitism for opposing Israels military onslaught against the entire Palestinian population in Gaza.

Doctors and other health workers have been reported to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)the countrys principal medical regulatory and discipline bodyor to their employers. These reports could lead to disciplinary action or even the loss of AHPRA registration.

This is a desperate attempt to use Australian medical authorities to destroy the careers of health practitioners who, in line with their Hippocratic Oath to do no harm or injustice, are informing the wider population and oppose the war crimes being committed against the Palestinians in Gaza.

In just over three months, the Israel Defence Force has killed over 24,000 Palestinians, half of them children, and more than 300 healthcare workers. The bombing campaign has left more than half of all Gazas buildings damaged or destroyed. The healthcare system has collapsed, with only 15 out of the 36 hospitals in Gaza even partially functional. Those that remain open confront acute shortages of medical equipment, medicines and manpower.

The attempted silencing of health workers is a component part of the pro-Zionist genocidal war and an attack on the basic rights of the entire working class, and must be opposed. This committee resolves to develop a campaign to defend all victimised medical practitioners and to alert and mobilise health workers across Australia and our counterparts internationally who are facing the same anti-democratic attacks.

Other health workers in attendance spoke in favour of the resolution.

John, an aged care worker from Newcastle, said, This will win support. There is real concern among my co-workers about what is happening in Gaza but they dont know what to do. Workers will support you if they understand what is actually happening.

There should be a far-reaching campaign amongst health workers, paramedics, doctors, service staff, aged-care workers, but also among other sections of workers, teachers and transportation workers.

Theres also got to be a rebellion against so-called organisations which lead us. Theyre cutting conditions and doing nothing to oppose attacks on the democratic rights of workers, he added.

Donna, a Melbourne hospital receptionist in attendance, endorsed the resolution and after the meeting said the doxxing of health professionals was scary and threatening.

You wouldnt think it was controversial to say that you dont support genocide, she said, and yet people are being exposed and stalked for saying exactly that. The main issue is that theres a concerted effort by some people to intimidate doctors and other health professionals supporting the Palestinian cause and who are anti-war.

Theyre doing this in a clandestine manner by infiltrating private social media groups such as Doctors for Palestine and Facebook groups. You have to prove who you are and show your Medical Board registration in order to gain entry to these groups. It will make people very worried if they cannot trust their own colleagues, she said.

I think the resolution is great. It must be very lonely for practitioners who are caught up in this, especially if theyre unaware that there is support for them from within this country and abroad. Health workers will respond. In my heart, I feel that the majority of health workers oppose what is happening to the Palestinians, she added.

The HWRFC resolution is an important step in the struggle against the efforts of the pro-Zionist forces to silence health workers and other sections of the working class speaking against Israeli war crimes in Gaza.

We urge health workers in Australia and internationally to circulate this article and the resolution, and send statements which we will publish in the coming days, explaining why you support this campaign. If you are being victimised we will maintain your anonymity and privately discuss with you how to push back this attack.

Email: sephw.aus@gmail.com

Twitter: @HealthRandF_Aus

Facebook: facebook.com/groups/hwrfcaus
In interviews conducted after he was released from military prison this week after serving a 30-day prison sentence, 18-year-old Israeli Tal Mitnick has vowed to continue his opposition to mandatory military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).



Prior to reporting to prison last month, Mitnick published a courageous statement on Twitter/X saying in part, Violence cannot solve the situation, neither by Hamas, nor by Israel. There is no military solution to a political problem.

Tal Mitnick

Since its bloody creation over 75 years ago, Israel has served as a Middle Eastern outpost for US imperialism. Without a constant source of fresh conscripts, the IDF would collapse. In order to forestall this eventuality, the government has instituted a policy of mandatory service which requires all Israeli youth, once they turn 18, to register with the military. Women are expected to serve two years, while men are obligated for two years and eight months.



Mitnick is part of the Mesarvot network, which describes itself as a network of refusniks fighting for a better future for everyone who refuse to serve the occupation.



In his interview with the Guardians Owen Jones following his release from prison, Mitnick noted that Israeli society is very militarized and that the mandatory service bleeds into civilian society  a lot of society is centralized around the army.



And coming out against the mandatory service can be scary in Israeli society, especially today after October 7.

I think Im the only public conscientious objector, he told Jones, but that there are a lot of people who object to mandatory service and to the reserves. They get exemptions in different ways, but there are other people... I am not the only one.



While there have been other Israelis who have refused to join the IDF, since October 7 Mitnick is the first public Israeli conscientious objector. His refusal to join the IDF, coupled with his courageous public statements against the war, reflect a growing anti-war movement among youth and the working class throughout the world.



Increasingly, more Israeli youth are coming out against the war. In a January 15 interview with AFP, 18-year-old Sofia Orr talked about her coming refusal to join the IDF. My conscience does not allow me to enlist, she told AFP, adding that it was not possible to defeat the ideology underlying the Palestinian resistance through military means, We are fighting fire with fire.



Speaking to Amy Goodman with Democracy Now! Mitnick pledged to continue his opposition to being conscripted into the IDF. This is despite the fact he has been ordered to report again on Monday and will likely face another prison sentence.

Tal Mitnick on Democracy Now!

Mitnick said that while his time in prison was not pleasant, it was also not the worst experience imaginable, its not the experience Palestinian prisoners are being held under, in the West Bank, or inside Israel.



In his interviews he said that there were probably 200 other people inside the prison with him and that while many did not agree with his opposition against the war and for peaceful co-existence with Palestinians, the more they got to know me ... they realized the things I am saying are not radical or crazy.



Mitnick explained that many of the other prisoners were deserters, who did not report to the army for socioeconomic reasons.



He said, They need to work to help their family, or take care of their baby brothers, when their mother has to go to work. Mitnick said some of the soldiers he was talking to in prison were in Gaza a couple of weeks ago.



Mitnick said it was heartbreaking hearing stories from prisoners, who had deserted for only a few months, yet were receiving half-year prison sentences.



When they come back and turn themselves in, Mitnick told Goodman, we are seeing a very heavy sentencing of those deserters as part of the fascist persecution.



People that went to work for three months to feed their family are being sentenced to a half year in military prison.



Israeli society he added, was being torn apart by two separate ideas, one fighting for the elimination of Gaza, and all Arabs in the West Bank, and those, Israeli and Arab, fighting for a more just and better future.



Asked by Jones to comment on videos of IDF soldiers committing war crimes, Mitnick said he saw the videos too, and they sadden me. It really shows how systems can corrupt humans.



Pointing to genocidal statements made by leading Israeli politicians, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mitnick said, I think with all this talk about how there are no civilians and no one is innocent is bringing this the huge death toll we are seeing. It is also hitting back against Israeli society because we are seeing a huge amount of soldiers dying from IDF fire, and hostages dying from IDF fire.



To stop the massacre of the Palestinian people and also to stop more and more pain to Israeli families, we need to stop with this mentality, he added.

Speaking more forcefully and clearly than any Ivy League university president in the US, Mitnick discussed the phrase from the river to the sea with Goodman. He noted that when many Palestinians use it, it does not mean a genocide of Jews; it means freedom for all Palestinians from the river to the sea.



When Benjamin Netanyahu uses this term, it does not mean freedom for all from the river to the sea. It means oppression of Palestinians, and it means Jewish supremacy from the Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea.



Mitnick concluded his interview by voicing his support for protests against the war, all around the world.



These protests must not be orientated to government officials currently overseeing the genocide that has been ongoing for over 107 days. The only social force capable of putting a stop to the war and re-organizing global society to serve the interests of humanity, not the imperialist warmongers, is the international working class organizing against the capitalist system, the source of war and fascism.



On her Instagram last week, Palestinian filmmaker and by necessity, war journalist, Bisan Owda put out the call for a Global strike week for a ceasefire from January 2128.



While dodging Israeli bombardment and scavenging for food and clean water, Bisan has delivered harrowing on-the-ground updates from Gaza throughout the military campaign. In her Instagram post calling for a general strike to stop the war, Bisan said the injustice in Gaza is a war against humanity and the world, not just against Gaza!



We civilians across the world do not have the tools of war! We do not thirst for killing and death! We only have our throats in the demonstrations and our boycott of the economic movement in our countries, especially those that support the genocide committed by Israel in Gaza!



Bisan called on workers to Strike as much as you can and protest ... for a whole week or until this madness ends!
On Monday, January 22, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside at a sacred religious ceremony to inaugurate the massive Hindu temple that his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has had erected in Ayodhya on the site of the razed Babri Masjid (mosque)fulfilling a longstanding goal of the Hindu supremacist right.

The Masjid, an historic Muslim shrine dating from the 16th century, was demolished on Dec. 6, 1992, by Hindu fundamentalist activists mobilized by the BJP and its allies in the fascistic RSS and the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP, World Council of Hindus). In defiance of the orders of Indias Supreme Court and under the watchful eyes of top BJP leaders and thousands of security personnel who supposedly had been deployed to protect the Masjid, specially trained Hindu activists razed it to the ground in a matter of hours using axes, hammers and grappling hooks.

The razing of the Masjid provoked Indias worst communal violence since the 1947 partition of the subcontinent into an expressly Muslim Pakistan and a predominantly Hindu India. In riots and other communal outrages that unfolded across much of north and west India well into 1993, thousands of people, most of them poor Muslims, were killed.

Workers put up cutouts of Hindu deity Lord Ram and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ayodhya, India, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. Preparations are underway in Indias northern Ayodhya city to mark the opening of a grand temple for Lord Ram on the site where the Babri Masjid stood for almost five centuries. [AP Photo/ Deepak Sharma]

The BJP government and their Hindu right allies intend for Mondays inauguration of the Ram Mandir to be a national spectacle and celebration. Central government workers have been given the day off until 2pm, and in most BJP-ruled states, including Uttar PradeshIndias largest state and where Ayodhya is situatedschools have been ordered closed and the sale of meat and alcohol forbidden.

With the corporate media shamelessly promoting the event, it is anticipated that hundreds of millions will watch on television as Modi blesses an idol, in reality a 51-inch (1.3 metre) doll, of Rama Lallathe infant form of the Hindu deity Lord Ramthat is to be unveiled in the temples sanctum sanctorum.

Seeking to exploit religious sensibilities and backwardness, the Hindu right placed at the centre of its agitation over the Babri Masjidan agitation aimed at whipping up animosity against Indias Muslims and asserting Hindu dominancethe absurd claim that the mosque was built atop the birthplace of the mythical Lord Ram.

Mondays inauguration spectacle is far more than just a celebration of religious mumbo-jumbo, mysticism and communal reaction.

It is the celebration of an historic crime. One that, as the building of the temple to Lord Ram on the former site of the Babri Masjid and its blessing by Indias prime minister underscores, is ongoing and giving rise to further outrages.

These crimes are in furtherance of a still more monstrous onethe transformation of India into a Hindu rashtra or state, in which those who hail from minority faiths, including Muslims, Christians, and any Dalits (former Untouchables) who do not accept that India is first and foremost a Hindu nation, live at the sufferance of the Hindu majority.

Mondays inauguration has intertwined objectives.

First, it will provide an unofficial platform for Modi and the BJP to launch their campaign for a third consecutive five-year term when India goes to the polls this spring.

Modi and his RSS mentors also conceive of it as capping their campaign to make the Ram Mandir a Hindu nationalist-supremacist shrine. It is to be a symbol of the new India they are forging and whose very existence is testament to Hindu (in reality Hindu far-right) assertion and political pre-eminence in contemporary India.

With the assistance of a pliant corporate media, the BJP and its allies have promoted a series of reactionary, interlaced narratives.

The building of the temple to the infant Lord Ram (Ram Lalla), they claim, incarnates the rebirth of India as a Hindu nation after more than a millennia when, according to the perverted historiography of the Hindu right, it was subject to alien Muslim rule, only to be followed by the British colonialists.

The rebirth of India as a Hindu nation under Modi and the BJP is held up as inseparable from its capitalist rise and the increasingly assertive role it is playing in world affairs as a prized ally of the US, Japan and the European imperialist powers.

Indias billionaires are being given a place of honour at the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Scores of them have been invited, beginning with Indias two richest billionaires, both of them staunch Modi supportersMukesh Ambani (net worth $US105.4 billion according to the Forbes Real-Time billionaires ranking on January 18) and Gautam Adani ($74.9 B).

Modis inauguration of the Ram Mandir in a national celebration is intended and in the most demonstrable fashion to repudiate any conception of India as a secular state. Whatever the constitution may formally declare, the Modi government, aided and abetted by the judiciary and with the support of the Ambanis, Adanis and other titans of Indian industry, is changing India into a de facto, if not yet a fully de jure, Hindu state.

As around the world, big business in India, fearful of growing social opposition and locked in a frenetic struggle for market share and profits, is embracing the far-right as the most ruthless defender of its interests and ferocious opponent of the working class and social equality.

Through the Ram Mandir ceremony, the BJP leadership hopes to electrify the Hindu right forces who comprise its cadre, project the party as triumphantly imposing its image on India, and whip up Hindu communalism with a view to polarizing the electorate along religious lines.

It also is seeking to build up Modi as an authoritarian figure, a Hindu strongman touched with the divine. Thus in announcing he was conducting Hindu purification rituals prior to Mondays pran pratishtha (literally giving life to the idol) ceremony, Modi modestly declared that he was serving as Gods vehicle. God created me, he tweeted on Jan. 12, to represent all the citizens of India during pran pratishtha. Keeping this in mind, I am beginning an 11-day special anushthan (purification) from today.

The BJP was for decades a marginal force in Indian politics, and until the 1980s the dispute over the Babri Masjid was a local curiosity in Ayodhya and its environs, kept alive by a handful of Hindu fundamentalists and Hindu Mahasabha fascists.

The emergence of the Hindu right, like fascist forces elsewhere, is bound up with the bourgeoisies ever-accelerating turn to the right and the role that ostensible liberal and left parties have played for decades in attacking the social and democratic rights of working people, funneling resources into the military and war, and presiding over ever deeper social inequality.

The rise of the BJP was also facilitated by the connivance of the purportedly secular opposition parties and institutions of the Indian state with the Hindu right. The Congress Partys record of adapting to and working with the Hindu right, including in 1947 communal partition massacres, is far too long to catalogue here. But it should not be forgotten that Congress governments colluded in the razing of the Babri Masjid. This included championing a 1986 judgment by a district court ordering the locks on the mosque be removed so as to open it to Hindu devotees of Lord Ram, and the refusal of the Naramsimha Rao government to order the thousands of security forces deployed in Ayodhya to block the mosques Dec. 6, 1992 demolition.

As in other infamous cases of mass communal violence, including the anti-Sikh riots fomented by Congress leaders after Indira Gandhis 1984 assassination and the 2002 anti-Muslim pogrom in Gujarat, the police and courts failed to successfully prosecute those responsible for organizing the Babri Masjids demolition, although leaders of the BJP and Shiv Sena boasted of their involvement, or for inciting the mass violence that followed.

In 2019, Indias highest court rewarded the perpetrators of the Babri Masjids razing, ordering the BJP government to realize one of its most cherished goals and build a temple to Lord Ram on the vacant lot where it once stood. In a transparent attempt to obscure its endorsement of criminality in the name of Hindu pride and assertion, the court said Indias Muslims should be compensated by the building of a mosque on another site as well as a hospital and various other community projects. Not surprisingly, five years on none of these have materialized.

After much to-ing and fro-ing, Indias main opposition parties announced one after the other that they would not participate in the Ram Mandir inauguration. But they did so in the most apologetic manner. Many, including Sitaram Yechury, the head of the Stalinist Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM, said they would have liked to attend, but couldnt under conditions where Modi and his BJP had decided to politicize the event.

As if the Ram Janmabhoomi ('Birthplace of Ram) movement had not been political from its inception! Conspicuously absent from virtually all the statements of opposition leaders was any reference to the Babri Masjids demolition and the mass communal violence that followed.

Underscoring their cowardice and adaptation to the Hindu right, some opposition parties and opposition-led governments have decided to organize their own events Monday to mark the Ram Mandir or pay homage to other Hindu gods. The AAP government in Delhi is doing the former, while West Bengal Trinamool Congress Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will pay tribute to the Hindu God Kali.

Mondays celebration of communal reaction and lawlessness and the prostration of the opposition parties must serve as an injunction to the working class to blaze a new political path, based on the program of socialist internationalism.

The Stalinist-supported, Congress Party-led, opposition INDIA electoral alliance is nothing more than a safety-valve for the bourgeoisie that offers it an alternative right-wing government, committed like Modis to further pro-investor reform and the anti-China Indo-US global strategic partnership, should the BJP government falter.

To defend its democratic rights and defeat communal reaction, the working class must be mobilized as an independent political force, rallying the rural toilers behind it in opposition to the bourgeoisie and all its political representatives and in the fight for workers power and the socialist reorganization of socio-economic life.
Russia continues to strengthen its ties with African countries and, in particular, those in the Sahel. Last week, Niger became the latest African country to sign a military cooperation agreement with Moscow. There are already more than 40 nations that are receiving training, advice and, above all, materiel from the Russian army or from one of the private security companies, such as Wagner. However, it is not just a question of security. Behind the mercenaries, helicopters, and instructors, Russia is also extending its soft power throughout the Sahel, forging commercial links and building key infrastructure. The latest examples are the gold refinery projects in Mali and the agreement to develop nuclear energy there and in Burkina Faso.

Last week, Niger's Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine and Defense Minister General Salifu Modi met in Moscow with senior officials from the Russian Defense Ministry. Both sides agreed to strengthen security relations, as well as intensify joint actions to stabilize the situation in the region, according to a Kremlin statement. The objective, the note adds, is to increase the combat readiness of Niger's military.

In this way, this Sahel country, governed by a military junta since the coup detat last summer, has followed the path of its neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso, which, after expelling French troops from their territory, already have Russian instructors on the ground. The Russians are helping them in their war against Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State jihadis, who are the greatest threat in the region. In parallel, European defense cooperation missions, such as the EUTM in Mali and GAR-SI Sahel, in which Spain has played a very important role, are currently at a standstill and on the verge of disappearing completely.

Huge mineral reserves

However, Russian cooperation with the Sahel goes far beyond the military field. Two of the continents great challenges are to advance in the transformation of its enormous mineral reserves and the energy sector, which go hand in hand. More than half of Africas 1.4 billion people do not have access to electricity, and it is impossible to think of industrialization without energy. Russia has stepped on the accelerator in both areas and has offered to help develop nuclear power in the region, a source it knows well. The State Atomic Energy Company (Rosatom) has bilateral agreements with twenty African countries, including its star project: the construction of a nuclear power plant with four reactors west of Alexandria, in Egypt. The project is 85% financed by Moscow.

In the context of intensifying its relations with the Sahel countries, during the VI Forum of the Russian Energy Week last October, Rosatom signed agreements with Burkina Faso and Mali that include developing the technology in both countries. According to the company itself, Russia is actively developing cooperation with foreign countries. Despite external constraints, the domestic economy is increasing its export potential, delivering goods, services, and raw materials worldwide. Rosatom and its divisions are actively involved in this work.

In Mali, furthermore, Russia has also reached an agreement with the military authorities for the construction of the largest gold refinery in West Africa, which will have the capacity to produce about 200 tons each year, according to the Minister of Economy and Finance, Alousseni Sanou. This will allow us to not only control all gold production, but we will also be able to correctly apply all taxes and duties, Sanou said. In 2022, Mali produced about 72 tons of gold, of which six come from traditional, small-scale extraction and the rest from foreign companies, most notably from Canada, Australia, and the U.K. The precious metal represents 25% of the national budget, 75% of export income, and 10% of the gross domestic product, according to the Malian government, which has just reformed the countrys Mining Code.

Russias return to Africa, after the glory days of the Soviet Union, began in the mid-2000s, but the definitive boost came after the invasion of Crimea by Russian troops in 2014, and it had its golden hour in 2019 with the first Russia-Africa summit, held in Sochi. With this strategy, Moscow is seeking to break the isolation to which the Western bloc intends to subject it and gain access to markets and natural resources. Although the favored regions of this cooperation are the Maghreb and the southern countries, in recent years its influence has spread to practically every corner of the continent, with the Sahel as the spearhead of a strategy that benefits from and stimulates the decline of Western presence.

The second Africa-Russia summit, held in Saint Petersburg in 2023, saw around twenty African heads of state in attendance as well as Russian President Vladimir Putin himself. The trade volume, certainly even far from China, India, and the European Union, has practically doubled in the last decade, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The grain diplomacy launched by Russia in the current conflict in Ukraine shows the strength of the ties: Moscow is asking nothing in return for sending wheat to six African countries: Mali, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic (where Wagner plays a decisive role), Zimbabwe, Somalia, and Eritrea.

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After more than 100 days covering Israels military offensive in Gaza, veteran Palestinian journalist Wael al-Dahdouh, the local bureau chief of the Qatari network Al Jazeera, left the Gaza Strip on Tuesday through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt to receive medical treatment in Qatar. The reporter, who was wounded in an Israeli attack in December, has become a journalistic reference in the Arab world in recent months. At age 53, his personal ordeal has made him a symbol of the suffering and the tenacity of Gazas journalists and of the general population in the Palestinian enclave.

Before the last three months, and also during these, Dahdouh, together with many of our journalists, has been an icon of the Palestinian attitude in the face of a genocidal campaign against them, against their voices, against their presence and against their very existence, says Anan Quzmar, a member of the Palestinian Union of Journalists based in the city of Tulkarem, in the occupied West Bank.

Born in 1970 to a wealthy family in Gaza City, Dahdouh began his journalism career as a reporter for local media before making the jump in 2004 to Al Jazeera, reporting under the tight blockade of Gaza and four previous devastating Israeli military campaigns, according to information provided by the network. During his youth, Dahdouh spent seven years in Israeli prisons for participating in the first Intifada (1987-1993). He wanted to study medicine abroad, but Israels refusal led him to focus on journalism.

During these three months, Dahdouh has given a voice to the atrocious daily life in Gaza. In October, an Israeli attack on the Nuseirat refugee camp, in the center of Gaza, hit the house where his family was staying and killed his wife, 44, and two of his children, ages 7 and 15, as well as a grandson who was not even two months old, as reported by Al Jazeera. Like so many others in Nuseirat, Dahdouhs family had sought refuge there after leaving their home in Gaza City following orders from the Israeli army to leave northern Gaza for their own safety. Four other children of the journalist, who was reporting live when he received the news, were injured, and one of them had to undergo emergency surgery. The attack killed eight more members of Dahdouhs family circle. Following the tragedy, he declared that this was the safe zone that the occupation army spoke of.

In mid-December, Dahdouh and cameraman Samer Abu Daqqa, a Belgian-Palestinian journalist also working for Al Jazeera, were injured by an Israeli missile believed to have been launched from a drone, the Committee to Protect Journalists reported. Both were covering damage from a previous Israeli attack on a United Nations school in Khan Younis, south of Gaza, which was housing internally displaced people. Al Jazeera assured that Abu Daqqa, who died shortly after, could not be immediately evacuated from the area because Israeli forces had surrounded the place and prevented the quick access of doctors to treat the wounded. It was then that Dahdouh was hit by shrapnel in his right hand and waist.

In early January, another Israeli airstrike on a vehicle in Khan Younis killed another of Dahdouhs sons, Hamza, as well as an Al Jazeera journalist. The attack also killed the videographer Mostafa Thuraya, who collaborated with foreign media such as the AFP agency. The Israeli army offered various (and contradictory) versions of the motive for the attack, and even accused the reporters of belonging to two Palestinian armed groups. Relatives, colleagues and press freedom groups rejected the Israeli claims. And Al Jazeera said that the two slain journalists were driving home after covering the aftermath of an airstrike when their vehicle was hit.

Al Jazeera correspondent Wael al Dahdouh is treated in a Gaza hospital after being injured during an Israeli attack on December 15. - (AFP)

Despite the personal tragedy, Dahdouh continued working to portray the bleak situation in Gaza. After leading prayers at the funeral of several relatives in October, the reporter said that his duty was to return to work as soon as possible. As you can see, the bombing continues, he justified. After the murder of his son Hamza, Dahdouh acknowledged to the U.S. network NBC that the cost is very high, but added that leaving his job in the midst of a humanitarian crisis is definitely not an option.

Dahdouh has been personally attacked, his family has been attacked and killed and, despite all this, he has continued to report, which made him a target in the first place, says Quzmar of the Palestinian journalists union. He spoke for all Palestinians, not just journalists, when he said they are being murdered twice: once by bombs, and once by the silence and [outside] complicity with the genocide against the people of Gaza.

Since the beginning of the Israeli military offensive on Gaza and until Thursday, the Committee to Protect Journalists had documented the murder of at least 76 Palestinian media workers and journalists. The non-profit organization has pointed out that the first 10 weeks of the escalation of the ongoing conflict were also the deadliest period for journalists since they began collecting this data in 1992.

The Israeli military has a long history of targeting journalists in killings that go uninvestigated, or whose investigations are not made public. Before the offensive, the Committee to Protect Journalists had documented at least 20 cases of reporters killed by the Israeli army, for which no one was ever held accountable. One of the cases that caused the most outrage was the murder of veteran Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, who was killed in 2022 by Israeli forces while covering a military incursion into the occupied West Bank. His death caused great commotion and was followed by one of the longest and most attended funerals in the history of Palestine.

Once in Egypt, after leaving Gaza through the Rafah border crossing, Dahdouh told the Egyptian network Al Qahera News that he intends to return to work once he has received medical treatment in Qatar. God willing, all efforts will culminate in the restitution of the rights of the Palestinian people, and in the end of these wars and this suffering, he said.

Wael al Dahdouh carries the body of one of his dead children in the Nuseirat refugee camp, in central Gaza, on October 25. MAJDI FATHI (AFP)
Meet FraudGPT, the evil twin of ChatGPT. This generative AI tool lurks in the dark web, capable of creating messages that look like they come from your bank, crafting malicious software, and building sham websites to trap unsuspecting victims. Netenrich, a data-driven tech security platform clearly spells out the dangers of the FraudGPT AI bot. But thats not the only one  cybercriminals have an accomplice in WormGPT, a tool that automates the creation of highly convincing fake emails that are personalized to the recipient. Its a chilling reminder that generative artificial intelligence can be harnessed for malicious purposes, from elaborate scams to non-consensual pornography and disinformation campaigns, and even biochemical weapons.

Although its still a relatively new technology, criminals have quickly exploited the capabilities of generative artificial intelligence, said Josep Albors of ESET, a Spanish tech security firm. Albors points to sophisticated, targeted phishing campaigns, misinformation blitzes and deepfakes  AI-manipulated videos altering or replacing a persons face, body or voice.

According to Proofpoints Fernando Anaya, generative AI is an evolutionary step rather than a revolutionary one. No longer are users told to search for obvious grammatical, context, and syntax errors to spot malicious emails, he said. Now attackers can just ask one of these tools to create a persuasive and urgent email requesting people to update their bank account and routing information. They can quickly and easily create emails in multiple languages. An LLM [a powerful model trained on vast amounts of data using deep learning techniques] can read an organizations LinkedIn profiles and craft tailored emails for each employee. The emails are personalized in flawless English or Dutch, catering to the recipients specific interests, warns the National Cyber Security Center of the Netherlands.

According to Philipp Hacker, a professor at the European New School of Digital Studies, generative artificial intelligence can be utilized to develop highly effective malware that is difficult to detect and capable of targeting specific systems and vulnerabilities. Although human expertise remains crucial for the development of advanced [computer] viruses, artificial intelligence can assist in the initial stages of creating malware.

The use of such techniques is not yet widespread, said Albors. However, tools like FraudGPT or WormGPT could become a significant problem in the future. With the help of these tools, even people with limited technical know-how can create malicious campaigns that are likely to succeed. This means individual users and companies will have to deal with an even larger number of threats.

AI-generated audio, video and pictures

The more convincing a scam, the higher the likelihood of success. Some use AI to synthesize audio. The pig butchering crypto scam may eventually transition from messages to calls, boosting its effectiveness, said Anaya. This scam got its name because criminals fatten up the victims by gaining their trust, and then steal everything they have. While commonly associated with cryptocurrencies, the scam can also be applied to other financial transactions.

Proofpoint has also found cybercriminals using this technology to deceive government officials. Its investigation into the Russia-aligned TA499 group revealed how their email campaigns convince high-profile North American and European government officials as well as CEOs of prominent companies and celebrities to participate in recorded phone calls or video chats. The TA499 group leverages AI and other methods to impersonate people in these video calls, and elicit information that can be used against them on social media.

Generative AI is also used to modify images and videos. Television personalities and high-profile figures like Elon Musk and Spanish politician Alberto Nunez Feijoo have all had their voices cloned. Deepfakes are often used to promote cryptocurrency investments in which many people lose money, said Josep Albors.

From pornography to biochemical weapons

The use of generative AI to create non-consensual pornography is especially alarming. Its targeted at women and causes significant personal and professional harm, said Philipp Hacker. Last year, Spanish schoolgirls reported deepfake nudes circulating on social media, and celebrities like Rosalia have also been victims of similar attacks.

AI technology has also been used to create misleading images of immigrants, influencing public opinion and elections, and to execute large-scale disinformation campaigns that are effective and convincing, said Hacker. Following the devastating wildfires on Maui in August 2023, certain publications made baseless claims that they were caused by a secret climate weapon being tested by the United States. The New York Times reported that this misinformation campaign was led by China and used AI-generated images.

Generative artificial intelligence has potential far beyond its current applications. An article in Nature Machine Intelligence explores how AI technologies for drug discovery could be misused for the design of biochemical weapons. Other cybersecurity experts warn that algorithms can infiltrate critical infrastructure software, blurring the lines between traditional attack scenarios and making them challenging to predict and counter within existing laws and regulations.

Defending against FraudGPT and malicious AI Machine learning and other techniques can detect and block sophisticated attacks. However, Josep Anaya emphasizes the need to educate users to recognize phishing emails and other threats. Philipp Hacker says addressing the risks of malicious use of AI requires regulatory measures, technological solutions and ethical guidelines. Other defensive measures include deploying independent teams with tools to detect vulnerabilities, and prohibiting certain open source models. "Addressing these risks is complex because of the competing ethical objectives in the AI space, and the feasibility issues related to certain defensive measures," said Hacker.

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Justine Triets Oscar contender Anatomy of a Fall was the big winner at the 29th Lumiere Awards, Frances equivalent of the Golden Globes, picking up three trophies, including best film and best actress for star Sandra Huller.

Triet missed out on the best director trophy, losing to Thomas Cailley for his supernatural family drama The Animal Kingdom but picked up the best screenplay honor for Anatomy of a Fall, sharing it with co-writer Arthur Harari. The mystery thriller premiered in Cannes last year, where it won the Palme dOr. Anatomy of a Fall won two Golden Globes, for best foreign-language film and best screenplay, and is nominated for seven BAFTAs, including best film.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Arieh Worthalter won best actor for his starring role in Cedric Kahns courtroom drama The Goldman Case. Iris Kaltenback took best first film for her debut The Rapture. Best documentary honors went to Kaouther Ben Hania for her Oscar-shortlisted Four Daughters. Chiara Malta and Sebastien Laudenbachs Chicken for Linda! took the honors for best-animated feature.

The full list of 2024 Lumiere Awards winners follows.

BEST FILM

Anatomy of a Fall, dir. Justine Triet

BEST DIRECTOR

Thomas Cailley for The Animal Kingdom

BEST SCREENPLAY

Justine Triet, Arthur Harari for Anatomy of a Fall

BEST DOCUMENTARY

Four Daughters, dir. Kaouther Ben Hania

BEST ANIMATED FILM

Chicken for Linda!, dirs. Chiara Malta, Sebastien Laudenbach

BEST ACTRESS

Sandra Huller for Anatomy of a Fall

BEST ACTOR

Arieh Worthalter for The Goldman Case

MOST PROMISING FEMALE NEWCOMER

Ella Rumpf for Marguerites Theorem

MOST PROMISING MALE NEWCOMER

Raphael Quenard for Junkyard Dog

BEST FIRST FILM

The Rapture, dir. Iris Kaltenback

BEST INTERNATIONAL COPRODUCTION

About Dry Grasses, dir. Nuri Bilge Ceylan

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Jonathan Ricquebourg for The Taste of Things

BEST MUSICAL SCORE

Vitalic for Disco Boy

Best of The Hollywood Reporter
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A woman wearing white makeup talks in Eve's Bayou.

Although most Prime Video subscribers know of at least a few great movies on the service, its easy for plenty of great titles to fly completely under the radar. These movies are typically older titles that the service has no interest in promoting, but that doesnt mean that those movies arent well worth watching.

If youre interested in digging through Amazon Prime Video to find some great movies, then Eves Bayou may be perfect for you. The movie is leaving Prime at the end of January, but until then, youve got time to check it out. The movie, which tells the story of a Black familys unraveling in Louisiana in the 1960s, is well worth watching. Here are three reasons why:

Its a great moody thriller with tons of atmosphere

Eve's Bayou (1997 Movie) Official Trailer - Samuel L. Jackson, Lynn Whitfield, Jurnee Smollett

Thanks in large part to its setting, Eves Bayou encapsulates what great Southern Gothic filmmaking should look like. Director. Kasi Lemmons shoots the swamps of Louisiana in a way that makes them feel both inviting and terrifying, and its that combination that makes the movies atmosphere so crucial.

Theres something about the humidity, and the way you can feel the heat of this summer on screen, that helps you understand exactly how each of the movies principal characters are feeling, and why things eventually come to a boil the way that they do.

It features a towering Samuel L. Jackson performance

Samuel L. Jackson in Eve's Bayou

One of the most brilliant elements of Eves Bayou is that the movie is told from the perspective of a 10-year-old girl who is only beginning to realize the darkness at the heart of her family. Secret Invasion survivor Samuel L. Jackson plays this girls father, a doctor who seems to be beloved by the community around him.

As we learn more about him, though, Jackson gets the chance to deliver one of his most commanding and terrifying performances. Few actors would be willing to play a man who, at least on paper, is so repulsive, but part of Jacksons skill comes from his ability to help us understand how much this mans charisma can cover up the darkness just beneath it.

Its about the loss of childhood innocence

The kids in Eve's Bayou.

Although Eves Bayou is in many ways terrifying, its also a movie that carefully depicts how it feels to realize that your family is not some perfect shelter from the rest of the world. Young Jurnee Smollett plays Eve, the young girl who comes to understand what many members of her family have worked hard to shelter her from.

Smollett is wonderful in this central role, and perfectly conveys what it feels like to lose the feeling of security that family can provide. Not everyones story is as dramatic as Eves, but most people know what it feels like to lose their sense of innocence.

Eves Bayou is streaming on Amazon Prime Video until January 31.
Donald Trump struck a rare gracious note Sunday in congratulating Ron DeSantis on his presidential bid after the Florida governor suspended it. The criminally indicted former president also announced that he was retiring his Ron DeSanctimonious nickname for his onetime rival in the Republican presidential race. (Watch the videos below.)

DeSantis endorsed Trump for president during his withdrawal speech, prompting kind words from the GOP front-runner, who values loyalty seemingly above all  even if DeSantis support wasnt the warmest of endorsements, as The Associated Press put it.

Before we begin, Id like to take time to congratulate Ron DeSantis and, of course, a really terrific person who Ive gotten to know, his wife Casey, for having run a great campaign for president, Trump said at a rally in Rochester, New Hampshire. He did. He ran a really good campaign.

I will tell you, its not easy. They think its easy doing this stuff, right? Its not easy, he added.

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. So I appreciate it, Trump continued. I appreciate that, and I also look forward to working with Ron and everybody else to defeat Crooked Joe Biden.

BREAKING: Donald Trump congratulates Ron DeSantis on his campaign and thanks him for his endorsement pic.twitter.com/tOsogJXUOK  ALX  (@alx) January 22, 2024

Trump also offered his version of an olive branch by telling a reporter that his DeSanctimonious nickname is officially retired.

Trump and DeSantis relationship fractured during the campaign as the former president amplified his grudge toward DeSantis for running against him after Trump helped him get elected in Florida.

JUST IN: Donald Trump says he has officially retired the name 'Ron DeSanctimonious' after DeSantis dropped out and endorsed him for president.



"That name is officially retired," Trump said.



During his dropout speech, DeSantis declared that Trump was the "superior" candidate pic.twitter.com/OznI4Wepqo  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) January 21, 2024

Trump is approaching Tuesdays New Hampshire primary with an 11-point lead in that state over his remaining rival, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, according to a CNN poll conducted before DeSantis announcement. The Florida governor trailed badly at just 6% of the vote in the survey.

Related...
EXCLUSIVE: Israels Girl from Oslo director Ofir Lobel has signed for representation with LA outfit Black Box Management.

Lobel, whose credits include Blackspace and Trust No One, is looking to push further into the international space by signing with the Hollywood management company, which is run by former CAA and WME agents Mike Dill and Lowell Shapiro.

More from Deadline

Lobel is about to head to Greece to start production on Season 2 of Netflixs The Girl from Oslo, which is co-produced for Israels Hot and Norways TV2. The series tells the story of a young Norwegian girl and two Israeli friends who are kidnapped by terrorists and threatened with death unless 12 prisoners are released.

Elsewhere, the auteur recently co-created and directed all episodes of Keshets Trust No One, starring Yehuda Levi, which tells the story of the youngest-ever director of the Israel Security Agency facing a cyber security leak of one of its top agents. And he also co-created and directed BlackSpace about an ordinary morning at a small-town High School turned into a nightmare when anonymous figures in masks committed a massacre leaving four dead students.

Lobel used to direct on Eretz Nehederet, the Israeli version of SNL, and recently returned to helm some episodes of the show following the October 7 massacre.

After October 7, Dill and Shapiro said the need to expose many of these creators work outside of Israel took on a new meaning for us.

We want to show Israeli creators that there is support for them and their work, they added. The Israeli film and TV industry has come a long way in a very short amount of time, and we want to make sure that the artists behind these great series and films are expanding their opportunities on an international level at all times.

The pair added that Lobel is creating and directing some of the most exciting series in global television.

He will continue to be repped for Israel and Europe by Tel Avivs Shaked & Perri. Black Box has a partnership with Shaked & Perri, whereby the pair share information, resources, and certain clients.

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Anime fans living in the US, UK, and Japan are wondering why Jujutsu Kaisen is on Disney Plus and are also curious about whether Season 2 of the anime is on streaming service as well. Here is everything you need to know.

Why is Jujutsu Kaisen on Disney Plus?

Jujutsu Kaisen is on Disney Plus in the US, UK, and Japan likely because of streaming, distribution, and licensing agreement deals.

The highly acclaimed anime series from MAPPA is present in the US, UK, and Japanese versions of Disney Plus likely due to the streaming, distribution, and licensing deals MAPPA has with Disney Plus in those regions.

As is often the case with content production companies and streaming giants, they usually have various distribution and licensing agreement deals in place for content produced by various companies such as Sony, Paramount, and Lionsgate and even anime content produced by various companies such as Studio Ghibli, Kinema Citrus, Kyoto Animation, and even MAPPA.

Unfortunately, fans who have Disney Plus but are living in areas or countries outside of Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom and want to stream the show, will need to make use of a VPN to access the Disney Plus versions that have Jujutsu Kaisen in their catalog. Some notably great VPNs for this include Express VPN, Nord VPN, SurfShark, and IPVanish.

Is Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 on Disney Plus?

No, Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 is not available on Disney Plus as of publishing.

Unfortunately, those looking to stream the second season of Jujutsu Kaisen on Disney Plus will not be able to as it has not yet arrived on the platform. However, it will very likely arrive sometime in the future once all episodes of it have aired, as is the case with many anime.

As of now, you can watch Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2 on Crunchyroll, as it is the best place for all anime content.

For more anime content, here is the trailer for Ishura Episode 4. Also, here is who Sung Il-Hwan from Solo Leveling is.

The post Jujutsu Kaisen: Why Is It on Disney Plus? Is Season 2 Available? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
This could be a year for Oscar voters to go big. Not only will they likely be showering nominations on Barbie and Oppenheimer, two huge box-office hits, but they could give double-digit nominations to as many as four different movies: the Barbenheimer pair, plus Killers of the Flower Moon and Poor Things.

One thing to remember as the Academy prepares to announce this years nominees on Tuesday morning: In the nominating round, passion counts for more than consensus. The nearly 10,000 Oscar voters get to cast their ballots for five different films or people in order of preference, but their No. 1 choices are the key in the early rounds of counting  lower choices only come into play as ballots get redistributed in later rounds. So its better to be loved by, say, one-third of the voters than to be liked by two-thirds or three-quarters of them.

Here are our best guesses for the nominees in all 23 categories.

BEST PICTURE

In a way, its surprising how few movies are genuine contenders for these 10 slots, and how predictable the slate seems to be. It starts with the two halves of Barbenheimer, the pop-culture phenom Barbie and the presumed frontrunner Oppenheimer. Martin Scorseses Killers of the Flower Moon and Bradley Coopers Maestro are inescapable, while Yorgos Lanthimos Poor Things and Alexander Paynes The Holdovers came out of the fall festivals with enormous good will for those veteran directors. Two first-time filmmakers, Cord Jefferson and Celine Song, should have plenty of passionate fans for American Fiction and Past Lives, respectively. And with an increasingly international Academy, theres been a non-English film in the Best Picture lineup for the last five years in a row, with the Cannes Film Festival entries Anatomy of a Fall and The Zone of Interest likely to give the Oscars two such films this year.

The caveat: In the four years in which the Producers Guild and Oscars both went with a flat 10 nominees (2009, 2010, 2021 and 2022), the PGA never predicted the Oscars 10-for-10. The best theyve done is nine matches in 2010, while last year they only went 7-for-10. So its risky to predict an exact match, although thats what were doing.

If something in the top 10 shows unexpected weakness, theres a slight possibility that The Color Purple could slide in. Also, Spains Oscar entry Society of the Snow showed unexpected strength by showing up on the Oscar shortlists for makeup, score and visual effects as well as international film, shades of last years Best Picture nominee All Quiet on the Western Front.

But Todd Haynes May December has failed to get much attention from awards voters. And while Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse has been touted as a contender in some circles, though its hard to imagine voters in this category going for an animated film that is both a sequel to a film that didnt get a best-pic nom and a prequel that sets up its own sequel with a cliffhanger ending.

Predicted nominees:

American Fiction

Anatomy of a Fall

Barbie

The Holdovers

Killers of the Flower Moon

Maestro

Oppenheimer

Past Lives

Poor Things

The Zone of Interest

Watch out for: The Color Purple, Society of the Snow

Lily Gladstone and Martin Scorsese on the set of Killers of the Flower Moon (Apple)

BEST DIRECTOR

With 10 slots for Best Picture but only five for Best Director, some serious trimming has to be done. Its hard to imagine Christopher Nolan, Greta Gerwig and Martin Scorsese not being nominated, and Yorgos Lanthimos is an international darling tailor made for an increasingly international Academy. Alexander Payne was the fifth nominee at the Directors Guild Awards, and he could easily be the same at the Oscars  but those two groups rarely agree 100%, and the Academys Directors Branch has been nominating directors of non-English films almost every year since Alfonso Cuaron and Bong Joon Ho won.

The two directors most likely to fill the non-English slot are Jonathan Glazer for The Zone of Interest and Justine Triet for Anatomy of a Fall, which Glazer having a slight edge. If the voters want to keep things domestic, theres Bradley Cooper for Maestro  but actor-directors havent had the easiest time in this category, as Ben Affleck can attest, and Cooper fell short with the Academy even when the Directors Guild nominated him for A Star Is Born in 2018.

Predicted nominees:

Greta Gerwig, Barbie

Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest

Yorgos Lanthimos, Poor Things

Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer

Martin Scorsese, Killers of the Flower Moon

Watch out for: Alexander Payne, The Holdovers; Bradley Cooper, Maestro; Justine Triet, Anatomy of a Fall

BEST ACTOR

There are six major contenders for five slots in this category, and a couple of others lurking in the shadows. The leaders are Bradley Cooper for Maestro, Leonardo DiCaprio for Killers of the Flower Moon, Colman Domingo for Rustin, Paul Giamatti for The Holdovers, Cillian Murphy for Oppenheimer and Jeffrey Wright for American Fiction, with Andrew Scott as an indie dark horse for All of Us Strangers and Barry Keoghan enjoying an 11th-hour surge only partly because of all the headlines garnered by his nude dancing.

At one point, Domingo or Wright seemed likeliest to be squeezed out, but the SAG Award nominations produced a different option: Those voters left out DiCaprio, whose performance in Killers is more divisive than the ones by his costars Lily Gladstone and Robert De Niro. Divisive isnt always bad in Oscar nominations  but in a field as strong as this one, any sign of vulnerability can be a problem.

Predicted nominees:

Bradley Cooper, Maestro

Colman Domingo, Rustin

Paul Giamatti, The Holdovers

Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer

Jeffrey Wright, American Fiction

Watch out for: Leonardo DiCaprio, Killers of the Flower Moon; Barry Keoghan, Saltburn; Andrew Scott, All of Us Strangers

BEST ACTRESS

Emma Stone and Lily Gladstone are the, shall we say, stone cold locks in the category, and the frontrunners. Carey Mulligan and Margot Robbie are all but assured to join them. But things get interesting when it comes to the final slot, which could go to Annette Bening (a four-time Oscar nominee in a physically demanding role), Greta Lee (a veteran actress delivering a subtly moving performance after never before getting a part this substantial), Natalie Portman (a past Oscar winner in a delicious role more beloved by critics than voters) or Sandra Huller (a German actress who delivers remarkable performances in two of the years most notable international films).

While Bening might have been the logical choice in the past, todays Academy might well find the one-two punch of Huller in Anatomy of a Fall and The Zone of Interest too formidable to pass up.

Predicted nominees:

Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon

Sandra Huller, Anatomy of a Fall

Carey Mulligan, Maestro

Margot Robbie, Barbie

Emma Stone, Poor Things

Watch out for: Annette Bening, Nyad; Greta Lee, Past Lives; Natalie Portman, May December

Robert Downey Jr. in Oppenheimer (Universal Pictures)

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

There are probably at least four actors in contention for two spots in this category, and two of them are from Poor Things. Mark Ruffalo and Willem Dafoe could both be nominated; or just one could, probably Ruffalo; or they could both be overlooked in favor of Sterling K. Brown for American Fiction, Charles Melton for May December or maybe even Dominic Sessa for The Holdovers.

The other three spots, though, seem pretty much guaranteed to go to Robert Downey Jr. for Oppenheimer, Robert De Niro for Killers of the Flower Moon and Ryan Gosling for Barbie.

Predicted nominees:

Sterling K. Brown, American Fiction

Robert De Niro, Killers of the Flower Moon

Robert Downey Jr., Oppenheimer

Ryan Gosling, Barbie

Mark Ruffalo, Poor Things

Watch out for: Willem Dafoe, Poor Things; Charles Melton, May December; Dominic Sessa, The Holdovers

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

DaVine Joy Randolph has been winning awards in this category all season long, and theres little reason to think she wont continue. Emily Blunt has been a lock for Oppenheimer as well, while Jodie Foster and Julianne Moore have been the best awards bets from their movies, Nyad and May December. Of those four, Moores position is probably the shakiest, based on the underwhelming response her film has received from voters.

Then theres Danielle Brooks, playing a role in The Color Purple that has already been responsible for an Oscar nomination for Oprah Winfrey and Tony noms for Brooks and for Felicia P. Fields; America Ferrera, who delivers the years most viral speech in Barbie; Penelope Cruz, a longtime favorite of Oscar voters who brings plenty of fire to Ferrari; and Rosamund Pike, the likeliest acting nominee from a film, Saltburn, that could appeal to Oscar voters with twisted sensibilities.

Predicted nominees:

Emily Blunt, Oppenheimer

Danielle Brooks, The Color Purple

Jodie Foster, Nyad

Julianne Moore, May December

DaVine Joy Randolph, The Holdovers

Watch out for: Penelope Cruz, Ferrari; America Ferrera, Barbie; Rosamund Pike, Saltburn

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

Nobody except the Academys Writers Branch thinks that Barbie is an adapted screenplay. But in this category, the Academy makes the rules  so for the purposes of the Oscars, Barbie is adapted and things will be harder for indie films like All of Us Strangers and The Zone of Interest in a category where voters often find a way to salute adventurous indies.

Killers of the Flower Moon, Oppenheimer and Poor Things are the heavyweights here, but Cord Jeffersons screenplay about a disgruntled writer, American Fiction, has joined them as a strong favorite to be nominated.

Predicted nominees:

American Fiction

Barbie

Killers of the Flower Moon

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

Watch out for: All of Us Strangers, Are You There, God? Its Me, Margaret., The Zone of Interest

The Holdovers (Focus Features)

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

With Barbie out of the way, original screenplay is a blockbuster-free zone, with the strongest contenders being Celine Songs Past Lives, David Hemingsons The Holdovers and Justine Triet and Arthur Hararis Anatomy of a Fall. Its also a place where writers seem apt to give a little love to May December and Maestro, unless the kinky vote coalesces around Saltburn.

Still, if Ben Afflecks Air or Ava DuVernays Origin show up anywhere on Tuesday, this could be the place.

Predicted nominees:

Anatomy of a Fall

The Holdovers

Maestro

May December

Past Lives

Watch out for: Air, Origin, Saltburn

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

The American Society of Cinematographers, which usually goes 4-for-5 in matching the Academys Cinematographers Branch, nominated Killers of the Flower Moon, Maestro, Oppenheimer, Poor Things and one big surprise, the Chilean horror allegory El Conde. While that last film isnt out of the question as an Oscar nominee (itd be a delicious one), its likelier that the branch substitutes a more widely awarded indie like The Zone of Interest, or even a bigger, glossier film like Barbie or The Color Purple.

Predicted nominees:

Killers of the Flower Moon

Maestro

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

The Zone of Interest

Watch out for: Barbie, The Color Purple, Saltburn

BEST FILM EDITING

As we move into the below-the-line categories, one big question looms: How many nominations can Barbie, Oppenheimer, Killers of the Flower Moon and Poor Things amass? And if all four films end up with double-digit nominations, how satisfying would it be to have that quartet battling it out in category after category?

Barbie might slip out of the film-editing category in favor of a more high-octane film like Ferrari, but the rest of this years fab four should make the cut, probably joined by something a little talkier.

Predicted nominees:

Ferrari

The Holdovers

Killers of the Flower Moon

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

Watch out for: Anatomy of a Fall, Barbie, Maestro

Barbie (Courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery)

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

Two of the big four, Barbie and Poor Things, are locks in this category, and the other two are definite contenders: Killers of the Flower Moon will get points for its careful reconstruction of Native American garments, while Oppenheimer is the kind of large-scale, mid-century period drama that can attract attention and votes. (See: Mank.) Maestro could also fit that last slot, but its just as likely that voters will gravitate toward something flashier, like The Color Purple, Napoleon or Wonka.

Predicted nominees

Barbie

The Color Purple

Killers of the Flower Moon

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

Watch out for: Maestro, Napoleon, Wonka

BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN

Stop me if youve heard this before: Barbie, Killers, Oppy, Poor Things. Theyre all favorites to be nominated  and another big Best Picture contender, Maestro, may well join them. Still, Saltburn or Wonka arent out of the question, and Asteroid City would seem to be an obvious choice here  but strangely enough, only one Wes Anderson movie, The Grand Budapest Hotel, has ever been nominated in this category. (It won.)

Predicted nominees:

Barbie

Killers of the Flower Moon

Maestro

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

Watch out for: Asteroid City, Saltburn, Wonka

BEST MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING

Bradley Coopers prosthetic nose in Maestro may have stirred up some controversy, but its also likely to land his makeup artists an Oscar nomination. Transforming an actor into a famous person often as not puts you on a fast track to the Dolby Theatre, which should also help the artists who turned Helen Mirren into Golda Meir for Golda. Oppenheimer is also in the mix, but it could be edged out by Willem Dafoes scars in Poor Things, the plane crash victims in Society of the Snow and the scale of Killers of the Flower Moon.

Predicted nominees:

Golda

Killers of the Flower Moon

Maestro

Poor Things

Society of the Snow

Watch out for: Beau Is Afraid, The Last Voyage of the Demeter, Oppenheimer

Emma Stone in Poor Things (Searchlight Pictures)

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE

With 15 scores on the shortlist, this category could go in a number of different directions. While the only absolute lock seems to be Ludwig Goransson for Oppenheimer, Robbie Robertson is likely to receive a posthumous nom for Killers of the Flower Moon and Jerskin Fendrix may stand out for the utterly distinctive style of his Poor Things music. Beyond that, the bold minimalism of Mica Levis score for The Zone of Interest and the bold maximalism of Daniel Pembertons for Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse are both ear-catching, but so are Michael Giacchino for Society of the Snow, Laura Karpman for American Fiction, Thomas Newman for Elemental, Mark Orton for The Holdovers and, oh yeah, 53-time nominee John Williams for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.

Predicted nominees:

Killers of the Flower Moon

Oppenheimer

Poor Things

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

The Zone of Interest

Watch out for: American Fiction, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Society of the Snow

BEST ORIGINAL SONG

The three most notable songs on this categorys shortlist are all from Barbie, but Oscar rules say that no more than two songs can be nominated from any film. With Ryan Goslings showstopping power ballad Im Just Ken and Billie Eilishs moving What Was I Made For? at the top of the list, thats trouble for Dua Lipas Dance the Night, which might otherwise have gotten enough votes for a nomination. The two Barbie songs will probably be joined by Jon Batistes touching love song It Never Went Away  and while most prognosticators are picking Lenny Kravitzs Road to Freedom from Rustin, I refuse to believe that the vibrant on-screen performance of High Life from Flora and Son wont help sway the music branch.

That accounts for four of the five slots. For the fifth, my rule is simple: Until the Academys Music Branch proves otherwise, assume that the Diane Warren song on the ballot (there always is one, you know) will get a nomination. This years DW song is The Fire Inside from Flamin Hot, and itll be her 15th nomination.

Predicted nominees:

The Fire Inside from Flamin Hot

High Life from Flora and Son

Im Just Ken from Barbie

It Never Went Away from American Symphony

What Was I Made For? from Barbie

Watch out for: Keep It Movin from The Color Purple, Quiet Eyes from Past Lives, Road to Freedom from Rustin

BEST SOUND

This category could easily deliver nominations for Barbie, Oppenheimer and Killers of the Flower Moon, all of which made the 10-film shortlist. But the first of those could be vulnerable in a field that often goes for loud, muscular movies like Ferrari, which was one of the two films that made the top feature-film categories from the Cinema Audio Society and the Motion Picture Sound Editors. The Zone of Interest is the wild card here, crafting a quiet soundscape that is nonetheless essential to the power of the film.

Predicted nominees:

Ferrari

Killers of the Flower Moon

Maestro

Oppenheimer

The Zone of Interest

Watch out for: Barbie, The Killer, Napoleon

Godzilla Minus One (Credit: Emick Media)

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

The Creator and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse were the leading nominees from the Visual Effects Society, though Spider-Man had the benefit of animation-specific categories. With nothing on the scale and import of last years Avatar: The Way of Water, the nominees will likely be a mixture of effects extravaganzas (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) and well-liked films that use VFX well in a supporting capacity (Poor Things, Society of the Snow).

Predicted nominees:

The Creator

Godzilla Minus One

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Poor Things

Society of the Snow

Watch out for: Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One, Napoleon, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE

With a record 33 films qualifying, this category consists of two locks, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and The Boy and the Heron, and a whole lotta uncertainty. Disney/Pixar has won 15 of the 22 Oscars in this category (16 if you count its distribution of 2002 winner Spirited Away) and it only failed to be nominated twice, so a nod for its Elemental is likely. Beyond that, top contenders include Netflixs Nimona, the box-office hits Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the indies They Shot the Piano Player and Suzume. Its worth nothing that ever since the Academy opened up the voting to the entire Academy, the indies havent fared as well at making inroads into a category dominated by major animation companies.

Predicted nominees:

The Boy and the Heron

Elemental

Nimona

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

Watch out for: Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, Robot Dreams, The Super Mario Bros. Movie

BEST INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM

On the 15-film shortlist in the international category, at least eight films have picked up strong buzz from the voters: the UKs The Zone of Interest, Spains Society of the Snow, Frances The Taste of Things, Germanys The Teachers Lounge, Finlands Fallen Leaves, Mexicos Totem, Japans Perfect Days and Italys Io Capitano. Ukraines 20 Days in Mariupol is possibly on that list as well, but its likelier to be nominated in the documentary category where its also shortlisted.

Which of those films will fall out? The key is to get No. 1 votes, which means that powerful or disturbing films like Zone and Snow may have an edge over more pleasurable ones like Taste, a rapturous reverie that one seemed like a co-frontrunner and now is potentially in danger of slipping out of the top five. Totem, meanwhile, is a small movie that may have picked up enough passionate fans to make it the categorys biggest surprise, while Fallen Leaves and Perfect Days leave you smiling and The Teachers Lounge leaves you shaken.

This years shortlist in the category was very predictable. The final five, not so much.

Predicted nominees:

Finland: Fallen Leaves

Germany: The Teachers Lounge

Mexico: Totem

Spain: Society of the Snow

United Kingdom: The Zone of Interest

Watch out for: France: The Taste of Things, Japan: Perfect Days, Italy: Io Capitano

American Symphony (Netflix)

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

Voters in the Academys Documentary Branch have a tradition of putting crowd-pleasing documentaries on the shortlist but failing to nominate them, with victims in recent years including Apollo 11, The Truffle Hunters, Three Identical Strangers and Wont You Be My Neighbor? This year, the shortlisted films that fit that mold include American Symphony and especially Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie. The latter film could well be the favorite to win if its nominated  but at a time when the Academy is trying to reinforce its position as an organization for theatrical films, Still probably wasnt helped when it won four Emmy Awards the weekend before Oscar voting began.

If Still does fall out, which is far from certain, the frontrunners will likely be American Symphony, 20 Days in Mariupol and Beyond Utopia. And with the doc branch gaining international members at an even faster rate than the Academy in general, its logical to look overseas at contenders like The Eternal Memory from Chile, Four Daughters from Tunisia and Bobi Wine: The Peoples President from Uganda.

Predicted nominees:

American Symphony

Beyond Utopia

The Eternal Memory

Still: A Michael J. Fox Story

20 Days in Mariupol

Watch out for: Bobi Wine: The Peoples President, Four Daughters, To Kill a Tiger

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT

Major companies have embraced the short-doc format, which means this years shortlist is filled with films from Netflix, ESPN, MTV Documentary Films, PBS, the New Yorker, the New York Times and others. The Last Repair Shop could become Ben Proudfoots third nomination in four years and his co-director Kris Bowers second, while The ABCs of Book Banning would be the first-ever Oscar nomination for former HBO and current MTV doc president Sheila Nevins, who has won more individual Emmys (31) than any other person. As always in the category, timely subject matter is often a key factor.

Predicted nominees:

The ABCs of Book Banning

Black Girls Play: The Story of Hand Games

Camp Courage

Island in Between

The Last Repair Shop

Watch out for: Deciding Vote, If Dreams Were Lightning: Rural Healthcare Crisis, Last Song From Kabul

BEST ANIMATED SHORT

Disney dominated this category in its early years, winning the first eight awards and 10 of the first 11. So itd make sense if Once Upon a Studio, a tribute to the studios 100th anniversary featuring dozens of familiar Disney characters, makes the final five this year, assuming voters dont view it as too much of a commercial. Other strong contenders include Disney vet John Muskers musical Im Hip, the World War I tale War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko, the surreal Koerkorter (Dog Apartment) and Humo (Smoke), a deeply disturbing look inside a Nazi concentration camp.

Predicted nominees:

Humo (Smoke)

Once Upon a Studio

Pachyderme

War Is Over! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko

Will Summon

Watch out for: Koerkorter (Dog Apartment), Letter to a Pig, Ninety-Five Senses

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT

This years live-action short category was awash in big names, with the shortlisted films featuring actors David Oyelowo (The After), John Travolta (The Shepherd), Ben Whishaw (Good Boy) and Ian McKellen (The One-Note Man), plus a battery of additional stars in shorts directed by Wes Anderson (The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar) and Pedro Almodovar (Strange Way of Life). That doesnt mean the starry projects will all be nominated, because other contenders are provocative (The Anne Frank Gift Shop), wrenching (Invisible Border, Red, White and Blue) and troubling (Yellow, Invincible) enough to potentially advance.

Of the two projects with star directors, Almodovars gay Western may have a slight edge over Andersons droll but very talky saga, the longest film on the shortlist.

Predicted nominees:

The After

The Anne Frank Gift Shop

Invisible Border

The Shepherd

Strange Way of Life

Watch out for: Knight of Fortune, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, Yellow

The post Oscar Nomination Predictions: Itll Be a Big Year for Barbenheimer and More appeared first on TheWrap.
U.S. House Oversight and Accountability Committee member Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO) attends the committee's hearing about Twitter's handling of a 2020 New York Post story about Hunter Biden and his laptop, in Washington, U.S. February 8, 2023.

Fleeing a tough reelection bid in the district where she lives, Colorado Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert is moving from the mountains to the plains, in the hopes of finding conservative pastures green enough to salvage her place in Congress.

To win, shell have to convince a new swath of voters that her brand of white-hot, far-right political activism  built on divisive one-liners and partisan ferocity in the U.S. House  is more needed in Washington than the home-grown Republicans she now faces in the primary.

While Boeberts new district voted for President Donald Trump by a nearly 20 percentage point margin in 2020, more than double the margin in her old district, and some Republican voters are already admirers, others are greeting her with hands-on-hips skepticism.

She feels she is a better candidate than the ones that we have, said Robin Varhelman, seated behind a desk at the cattle auction she owns in Brush. Shes gonna have to explain to people why.

Varhelman, flanked by the massive head of a bull named Big Red she used to rope, with a cap reading USA Trump hanging from its right ear, said she wasnt sure if Boebert made the switch for the good of the state or her own survival.

After Boebert eked out a victory by just 546 votes in 2022, her home district moved from Republican-leaning to a toss-up for 2024  threatening the GOPs already threadbare control of the U.S. House.

The narrow margin in Congress leaves both major parties fighting fiercely for every available seat in 2024. Boeberts move to the new district, where shell have to take on at least nine other Republicans for her partys nomination, probably gives the GOP a better chance to win both.

Thats part of her reason for switching, she said in a phone interview, but she gave another reason for jumping into a race thats already considered safely Republican: There is need for my voice in Congress.

After attacking the Democrat who nearly upset her in 2022 as the beneficiary of outside money, Boebert has become the outsider and will have to live down the carpetbagger label that her new opponents are already lobbing her way.

Boeberts abdication came after a video surfaced last year of the congresswoman vaping and groping with a date in a Denver theater, which rattled even devoted supporters as she barreled toward an election rematch against Adam Frisch. The Democrat she nearly lost to in 2022 had received triple her campaign donations in this years race, benefiting tangibly from her disruptive profile, which grated on donors far beyond state and district borders.

I can read the tea leaves, Boebert said. I dont want the left to have a chance to buy the seat from us, and their only argument is me.

Number crunchers, political experts and the National Republican Campaign Committee generally agree that Boeberts exodus will give Republicans a better chance to retain that district  though newly elected NRCC Chair Rep. Richard Hudson said the organization had no hand in the decision.

Frisch said hes taking a bit of a victory lap after Boeberts retreat, and is plugging ahead with the same bipartisan platform, buoyed by at least $7.7 million in his campaign coffers. Frisch is expected to face Jeff Hurd  a mild-mannered conservative in the old GOP tradition, who said his goal is making local headlines, not national headlines.

In Boeberts new district, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson has endorsed her candidacy, and the NRCC is treating her as an incumbent. Less happy with the switch is Republican state Rep. Richard Holtorf, now one of her opponents.

By Lauren Boebert district shopping and becoming a carpetbagger so she can keep her office in D.C., she has now become part of the swamp, he said.

Whether Boebert will join the ranks of American politicians who have relocated and won remains unclear.

That road is littered with many who could never quite convince voters that they were in this for something other than their own ambition, said Christopher Galdieri, a politics professor at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, who wrote a book on American politicians whove picked up and moved races.

Boebert does have some things working in her favor  shes not leaving Colorado, shes a known conservative gladiator on national issues such as immigration and reducing the national debt, and shes a dedicated acolyte for Trump, whose popularity among rural Republicans remains high.

Rancher Dawn Whitney, who attended one of Varhelmans recent auctions, said Boeberts flag-bearing for conservative, Christian and agrarian values is already enough to earn her vote.

Ranchers and farmers are pretty much the same everywhere, said Whitney, her calloused hands busy at a word search puzzle as the auctioneer chanted.

As long as she is country related, I think shell be fine, said Whitney, who cited a well-worn reason voters cling to Boebert: Rural residents often feel their political power slipping and see an outspoken champion in Boebert.

She dont back down, she said.

Still, Boebert is joining a race that is practically guaranteed to elect a Republican anyway, said Galdieri. In effect, that means shes pushing aside homegrown options to run in a safer district.

Voters notice that, he said.

While some voters  even if they chafed at Boeberts style  werent as miffed that she changed districts, the June Republican primary is where her opponents can do the most damage. Along with Holtorf, shell face Mike Lynch, minority leader in Colorados House of Representatives.

I was a fan of Lauren Boebert when she first got there, he said. And then I think, for lack of a better term, she drank the Kool-Aid and became what she was fighting.

Boeberts retort is unwavering.

If theres anyone who takes on the swamp, its me, she said. Im the only candidate in this race whos actually done the work.

Nodding to part of the challenge ahead, she added, Im excited to meet people and learn more about the nitty gritty local issues.

While a segment of the new districts voters is in a more urban center south of Denver, the region stretches across Colorados prairie east of the Rocky Mountains  where some folks great-grandparents ate dinner beneath tablecloths during the Dust Bowl. A half-century ago, grandparents wrestled their calves out of blistering winter chills, just as their descendants were doing this week, and as their own children will do as long as things hold steady.

Though Boebert might be escaping tough electoral odds, voters in the new district hold tight to the traditional values borne from that history  the same values that Boebert stepped on in the groping episode at a musical production of Beetlejuice in Denver.

That embarrassment was memorable enough to transcend district lines.

I dont really care either way what she does, but shes definitely got to get some sh together, getting thrown out of a theater, said Mark Moorman, a Republican who bid at auction on a bull the size and weight of a small car.

Before she switched districts, Boebert had apologized up and down Colorados 3rd district as part of her last-ditch strategy against Frisch. Shed undertaken a local press tour and grassroots boot camps geared to emphasize her work on local issues.

Now, on new turf, thats totally out the window, said Seth Masket, director of the Center on American Politics in Denver. Shes the national politics candidate. That is her weakness; that is her strength. She kind of has no choice.

Its the difference between Republican voter Debbie Spear  Shes going to have the same target on her back wherever she goes, here, there, Texas. We dont need that, what is she going to bring more than the candidates we have?  and the passerby at a ranching store nearby, who shouted out: The girl from Rifle? Hell, yeah.

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Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a former candidate for president, may have found a permanent running mate.

The South Carolina lawmaker announced Sunday that he and his girlfriend, Mindy Noce, got engaged, prompting a Congratulations!! from far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.).

She said YES, Scott wrote on X, formerly Twitter, with a picture of himself on one knee before Noce at Kiawah Island in South Carolina. Mindy, thank you for making me the luckiest man in the world.

She said YES.



Mindy, thank you for making me the luckiest man in the world.



He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord - Proverbs 18:22 pic.twitter.com/FhspUVmSkY  Tim Scott (@votetimscott) January 22, 2024

Scott then ended his post with scripture: He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.

In a New York Times report, a spokesperson for Scott said the couples engagement on Kiawah Island was followed by a celebratory dinner and that Noce attended church wearing her engagement ring the next morning.

Scott publicly introduced Noce, a previously married Charleston, South Carolina, interior designer and mother of three, at a Republican debate in November when he was still in the race. At the time, Scott was the only bachelor running  a point of concern for potential donors. He suspended his campaign later that month.

In September, Scott told Fox News: I have a wonderful girlfriend and we have a wonderful relationship. The good news is, God has blessed me with a smart Christian woman.

On Friday, Scott endorsed Donald Trump for president, forsaking former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who appointed Scott to his Senate seat in 2012.

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The Gildan-Browning West board battle is now centered over possible antitrust violations, but that likely depends on which lawAmerican or Canadianapplies.

Gildans board on Sunday charged Browning West with U.S. antitrust violations connected with its acquisition of company shares. The battle between the American Apparel owner and its activist investor began in December after the activewear firm ousted its co-founder and longtime CEO Glenn Chamandy. That didnt sit well with shareholders Browning West and Turtle Creek Asset Management Inc., who wanted Chamandy reinstated as CEO. The two investors, with Browning West leading the charge, were later joined by others, who together now hold 35 percent of the voting shares of Gildan stock. Meanwhile, Vince Tyra, Chamandys replacement, was asked by the board to take on the CEO role one month earlier than planned. And Chamandy has been under fire too, as Gildans board attacked him for his false narrative over the circumstances that led to his exit from the company.

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The battle for control of the Gildan board has continued, with each side pitching its best arguments as to which teamGildans board incumbents versus Browning Wests proposed board slateis most qualified to preserve shareholder rights.

Browning Wests rapid and illegal share acquisitions were undertaken as a necessary part of its scheme to take control of the company and its board and reinstall Mr. Chamandy, Gildan said on Sunday. The company said that the investor accumulated shares in violation of U.S. antitrust law, which statutorily requires certain notices and a mandatory 30-day waiting period before the acquisition of new voting shares.

Gildan also said that under the Canada Business Corporations Act, shareholders can ask for a special meeting of shareholders only if they hold more than 5 percent of a companys shares. Excluding the alleged illegal share acquisitions, the Browning West share ownership is under the required threshold and the investor would have no legal rights to requisition a meeting, Gildan said.

A spokesperson for Browning West confirmed that it informed Gildan it did not breach the HSR Act because the firm is exempt from filing and waiting period requirements.

Browning West on Sunday fired back that the Gildan board is now resorting to desperate and egregious entrenchment maneuvers. It charged that the board has no respect for corporate democracy or the shareholder franchise. The investor also called the Gildan allegation that it violated U.S. antitrust law a false premise to avoid its demands for a special meeting. Browning West said it knew that the board hired at least three law firms, two investment banks, a public relations firm, a proxy solicitor and a private investigator, for the board battle with shareholders paying for the professional fees.

Moreover, the activist also charged that Gildan played dirty in hiring a law firm that has worked continuously with Browning West since its funds inception, pointing out that the hiring was for activism defense services without first obtaining a Browning West conflict waiver.

This is a deplorable tactic that poses serious legal and ethical issues, and we are deeply concerned that Browning Wests confidential information has been shared with Gildan and its advisors, the activist investor said, adding that despite the boards disturbing actions, it was in no way deterred or intimidated.
January is normally a pretty quiet month for royal news. But not this January, and not in Denmark: After the surprise announcement on New Year's Eve that she would abdicate, Queen Margrethe became just the second Danish monarch in history (and first queen) to voluntarily give up the throne. King Frederik X ascended to the throne on January 14, and delivered a short speech from the balcony of Christiansborg Palace, following Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen proclaiming him as king. The next day, the Danish royals attended the Danish Parliament's celebration of the succession of the throne, and yesterday, the entire royal family participated in a celebratory church service at Aarhus Cathedral to mark the start of King Fredrik's reign.

Here, see all the best photos from the outing:

Queen Mary looked regal in purple as she waved to the crowds upon her arrival.

MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN - Getty Images

According to the Associated Press, "The hour-long service marked Frederiks first official visit as king outside the Danish capital Copenhagen."

MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN - Getty Images

Mary and Frederik were joined by their four children: Prince Vincent, Prince Christian, Princess Josephine, and Princess Isabella.

MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN - Getty Images

Queen Margrethe was also in attendance, and also wore purple.

BO AMSTRUP - Getty Images

As did Queen Margrethe's sister, Princess Benedikte. (Benedikte is now tenth, and last, in the line of succession for the Danish throne.)

BO AMSTRUP - Getty Images

For the occasion, the new Queen wore a Sren Le Schmidt coatdressthe same designer she turned to for her Accession day outfit.

Martin Sylvest Andersen - Getty Images

Mary wore diamond drop earrings, and a floral brooch.

Martin Sylvest Andersen - Getty Images

King Frederik led the royals inside the Cathedral. 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, Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, bishop of the Diocese of Aarhus, told The Associated Press. I chose some of the hymns were going to sing, and the king said, I would like to sing these hymns.

Martin Sylvest Andersen - Getty Images

Prince Christian, 18, is the new Crown Prince of Denmark.

Martin Sylvest Andersen - Getty Images

The Danish king waved to the crowds following the service.

MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN - Getty Images

The Danish royal family waves as snow falls.

MIKKEL BERG PEDERSEN - Getty Images

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The actual emissions reductions of fashion companies renewable electricity claims are often far less than implied, a new study by a German think tank said last week.

While transitioning to renewable electricity is a critical measure for companies that seek to decarbonize their supply chains, said the NewClimate Institute for Climate Policy and Global Sustainability, where and how they achieve their targets can spell the difference between meaningful action and greenwashing.

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Its very easy for any company to make quite bold claims about renewable electricity, while not being on track to do much at all, especially for the fashion sector, [which] uses a huge amount of energy in the manufacturing process, said Thomas Day, a climate policy analyst and co-author of the report.

Coal, in particular, has been a difficult habit for textile suppliers to kick. Largely powered by fossil fuels, yarn spinning and textile dyeing and processing alone make up more than half of the fashion industrys emissions, creating what some environmentalists have dubbed one of the biggest elephants in the room regarding climate action.

One of the sticking points is that brands in the global North tend to produce in the global South, where emerging economies often arent wired for cleaner sources of electricity. Some companies have tried to circumvent those issues. Bestseller and H&M Group, for instance, are backing the construction of Bangladeshs first utility-scale offshore wind farm. Ferragamo, Ralph Lauren and other signatories of The Fashion Pact have inked a collective virtual power purchase agreement to increase their access to solar power. Adidas, Gap Inc., Calvin Klein owner PVH Corp. and The North Face parent VF Corp. have lobbied the governments of Cambodia and Vietnam to prioritize green infrastructure over new coal plants.

But companies need to be doing more, including within their organizations, where the ambition and credibility of their targets can fall short, Day said. Are those goals aligned with the 1.5-degree Celsius threshold? Is progress being tracked and measured transparently and with integrity? Do their renewable energy procurement plans extend beyond owned and operated facilities?

Whats common for all of the companies is that theyre not putting the supply chain sufficiently on their radar, he said. H&M is the only company we looked at that has a target for the supply chain, which is a good start, but even that target has a huge caveat.

Besides H&M, NewClimate scrutinized Gap, Nike, Lululemon and Zara owner Inditex. Most are members of voluntary initiatives such as RE100 and the Science Based Targets Initiative that Day says dont strive for higher quality renewable electricity strategies relevant to their broader supply chains rather than how theyre powering their offices.

Each retailer demonstrated both pros and cons. While H&Ms claim of using more than 90 percent of renewable electricity in its own operations is currently based on stand-alone RECs, an acronym for renewable energy certificates that are a form of carbon offsets, the company is moving its focus to PPAs, or power purchase agreements, i.e., long-term contracts between an energy supplier and a buyer. The Swedish purveyor has also pledged to use 100 percent renewable electricity in its supply chain by 2030, but the targets significance may be undermined by a lack of commitment to electrify its manufacturing processes.

Nikes promise to reach 100 percent renewable electricity by 2025 covers its own operations and it remains unclear if its electricity procurement methods can sufficiently substantiate its claim, Day said. Despite a target to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 30 percent by 2030, it does not have a renewable electricity target for its supply chain. The sportswear Goliath also supports the development of renewable electricity capacity at both owned and suppliers facilities, yet the scale and expected impact of these efforts remain murky.

Lululemons claims to have already achieved its 100 percent renewable electricity target for its owned and operated facilities is mostly based on the purchase of stand-alone RECs, Day said. It recently signed PPAs to improve its renewable electricity procurement strategy, but how it will move forward isnt obvious. One upside: The asana-friendly brand provides a high level of detail in its disclosures on the energy use and emissions of its own operations, including a breakdown of emissions and energy demand by fuel type and geography. Its one step ahead of the others in that regard, he added.

In Gaps case, its renewable electricity consumption is based on high-quality PPAs, but its difficult to tell what proportion of electricity consumption these cover, the report noted. The Athleta and Old Navy parent also hasnt established a renewable electricity or emissions reduction target for scope 3. Day referred to Gaps public call to the Vietnamese government for clean energy investments, but we could not identify whether Gap systematically engages with policymakers in manufacturing countries.

More than 99 percent of Inditexs operational electricity consumption in 2022 was matched by unbundled renewable energy certificates of unspecified vintages, the report said. At the same time, its 2022 sustainability report said that it is in the process of establishing PPAs in key operational centers. Inditex reports capacity-building measures for supply chain stakeholders, including assisting suppliers with understanding local procurement options for renewable electricity and setting renewable energy targets, Day said, yet does not mention any requirements, preferential treatment or other incentives for suppliers that opt for renewable alternatives.

Only H&M responded to a request for comment.

Finding renewable and sustainable energy sources to substitute fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas is increasingly important for the garment sector, especially in production countries that still rely heavily on fossil fuels, a spokesperson said. Our priority when phasing out coal is electrification paired with the deployment of renewable electricity. This also includes adding new renewable electricity generation to grids through PPAs.

Altogether, the Cos and Monki operator has secured 200 megawatts of renewable energy that will result in an indicative annual output of 300 gigawatt-hours when fully operational, which would cover almost a quarter of our electricity needs for own operations. Decarbonizing supply chains, the spokesperson added, is a shared challenge that can only be tackled with strong shared commitments and collaborative financing, examples of which are the wind power project in Bangladesh and its green loan program for suppliers with DBS.

Still, Day characterized the report as a snapshota description of the status quo, one that shows that none of the companies are going far enough, though he allowed that the fashion sector is a difficult supply chain to work out.

But all this needs to be on the radar, he said. Thats essentially the problem. Right now theres little to incentivize brands to go about it in a better way.

We dont want to see companies making 100 percent renewable electricity claims when theres no electricity there or when its in very short supply and its basically a competition of who gets there first; thats not a constructive way of dealing with the issue, Day said. Wed much rather see credible plans for improving the situation and thats thats the real added value of the role of corporates in the renewable electricity space. Theyre in most places. Theyre the biggest off-takers of renewable electricity. And if they do things in a constructive and positive way, then they can really accelerate the energy transition in the countries they are in.

NewClimate also analyzed technology companies, among them Apple, Google and Samsung. Fashion firms are overall less transparent than their tech counterparts, Day said, because theres so much movement in terms of jumping from one supplier to another or even one geography to another.

I think its much easier for a company like Apple, where 50 percent of the components come from Foxconn and its the same every single year for the last decade. Then they can say, O.K., were focused on this one country and we want to do that every single year for the next decade, he said. For fashion brandsthey might have most of their suppliers in Bangladesh this year, but in five years time, they might be within Vietnam. So thats a more complex situation.

Day said that brands need to offer suppliers more security in the long run. That may be challenging, but its going to be a key measure for climate more broadly, he said.

Its very difficult for the companies to request things from suppliers and to say that they need to be developing their own renewable energy ESG strategies and their own climate strategies if theyre then going to dump them next year and go to a different supplier, Day said. You need to have a bit more of a long term plan.

The same goes with lobbying governments. Investment, he noted, is leverage.

If youre going to be in Bangladesh for another five years [and] it carries on over 10 years, it carries much more weight to go to the government and say, We need this to continue otherwise were going to go to another country, Day said. These are issues that will need to be resolved in the sector to fix various climate issues.
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Al Quoz Industrial Area 4 looks much like the other three: a vast complex of low-rise warehouses, dusty roads passing factories and storage units, trucks and lorries ferrying goods to and fro. It looks nothing like the Dubai of travel brochures or Instagram  no iconic skyscrapers, no golden beachfront, no glitzy lights, no luxe resorts.

But among the clutter of concrete and corrugated iron of Al Quoz 4 is a restaurant thats quickly turning the neighborhood into a must-visit for foodies: Big Ts BBQ.

The humble Texas-style barbecue joint, named after its owner, founder, and head chef Fadel Big Tasty Faour, is only open three days a week but has garnered a cult following of loyal customers who are willing to queue for up to an hour to grab a portion of its famous brisket.

Im proud and honored that Ive received a lot of attention from people who love to explore food, says the Palestinian chef, who grew up in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), adding that many of his regulars have now become friends.

One of the draws here is Faours 1,000-gallon Texan smoker  the largest of its kind in the UAE, he claims. Faours goal is to recreate the authentic flavors of the Lone Star state for his customers, down to the post-oak wood he imports from Texas for smoking.

Big T's beef brisket, smoked for up to 16 hours, has loyal customers coming back time and time again. - Brett Turner / CNN

Its what Texas uses. Think of oak as the spice  each wood will taste different. I try to keep it as original tasting as possible, says Faour. If you want to taste actual Texas barbecue, not any just state, but Texas barbecue, its this.

A taste of Texas

Food runs in Faours family. His parents owned a chocolate factory and import business in Al Quoz Industrial estate, and he always had a passion for cooking. In 2016, after years of traveling and volunteering in kitchens, he joined the Institute of Culinary Education in Manhattan, and worked in prestigious New York kitchens. I was just eager to jump at any chance to explore food, he says.

It was a trip to Texas in 2019 that gave him his first taste of barbecue, and he spent months living with a friend and trying all the best spots for smoked and grilled meat. It was here Faour bought his famous smoker  long before he dreamt up Big Ts.

Good Texas smokers are scarce because theyre handmade and often have year-long waiting lists, he says. I knew I wanted to open a restaurant but I didnt have a plan on when or where, he adds.

Located in Al Quoz Industrial Estate, Big T's BBQ is hidden between factories and warehouses. - Brett Turner / CNN

When the pandemic hit in 2020, Faour moved back to Dubai. Lockdowns and restrictions forced the familys chocolate business to close  but Faour saw an opportunity to put his culinary training into action and make his dream of opening a restaurant a reality, utilizing the now-empty warehouse.

He transported the smoker to Dubai in 2022, opening Big Ts BBQ in December of that year. It was bare-bones: the sign above the door was handpainted, and a hand-written menu was taped by the cash register. Fluorescent tube lights bounced off the concrete floor and mismatched furniture.

But the sparse decor of the cafeteria-style restaurant didnt matter to his diners. They were there for one thing: beef. Brisket, short ribs, pastrami, sausages, burgers, and double-fried beef tallow fries, along with a monthly and weekly rotation of specials. The brisket, which has become Big Ts signature, is smoked for 12 to 16 hours a day.

We just cook it till its done. There is no time or temperature, we just keep checking. We know how it feels when its done. We go a lot on feeling, Faour adds.

Fadel Faour, owner and founder of Big T's BBQ, purchased a 1,000-gallon smoker during a trip to Texas. - Brett Turner / CNN

When Big Ts opened, Faour could barely keep up with demand, sometimes selling out by mid-afternoon. With the growing popularity, he bought not one, but two new smokers, tripling his capacity.

Now we only sell out of everything once every three months, Faour says. There may be less choice in the hour before it shuts but hes quick to add: Youll always have something nice to eat till closing time.

One in 18,000

While Dubais food scene has captured international attention, dominating the 50 Best Restaurant list for MENA (Middle East and North Africa) and becoming the first city in the region to have its own Michelin guide, its budget dining venues are less well known.

The emirate is home to around 18,000 food outlets, and its culinary scene is a reflection of the 200 different nationalities living in the UAE  something that makes it one of the best cities in the world for diversity of food, says Alex Augusti, the Dubai-based food vlogger behind Just Food DXB. His videos often highlight low-cost eateries in unusual places, like Big Ts, which he calls his go-to for all things meat.

Its rustic, its rough around the edges and thats why I love it, says Augusti. Hes got years of experience in the US and he really does inject that passion and that enthusiasm into his food.

Big T's BBQ is no frills  which puts the focus on the food. - Brett Turner / CNN

Augusti adds that Faour has shaken up the food scene and has raised the bar for barbecue in the city, especially the smoked brisket scene, hes really the leader in it.

Through his videos and reviews, Augusti hopes he can convince visitors to look beyond the citys malls and five-star resorts. When you explore new foods and new cultures, thats when you have the best experiences. And places like (Big Ts) are a perfect example  its in the middle of nowhere and youll probably get some of the best food in the city.

The attention of adventurous foodies like Augusti has boosted Big Ts reputation in the citys culinary scene, and Faour is now embarking on his second project, which hes keeping under wraps until launch.

I love barbecue, (but) I want to keep it interesting for me as a chef, and keep trying new things, he adds.

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A rare photo of a mother tiger and her cubs sparked hope for the endangered species in Thailand.

Hidden cameras placed throughout Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng wildlife sanctuaries showed images of 120 tigers over the course of a one-year period ending in April 2023. This number was an increase from the previous years sightings, which totaled 100 tigers.

The image of the mother tiger and her cubs is an indication that the countrys conservation efforts are making significant progress. Back in 2007, only 46 tigers were spotted in the sanctuary.

While the recent increase in sightings reveals the species headway, there is still a long way to go in terms of conservation efforts.

It shows we are going in the right direction but still we are alert, and still watching the situation, said Somphot Duangchantrasiri, the head of Khao Nang Ram wildlife research station at the Department of National Parks. If we stop what we are doing, then the number could go down.

Despite these rising numbers, tiger populations in Southeast Asia are still in critical danger.

Poaching has been one of the main reasons Thailands tiger population has experienced rapid decline in the past. Since the beginning of the 1900s, the tiger population has dropped 97%, declining from 100,000 tigers to only 3,200 wild tigers today.

However, increased patrolling has helped reduce the number of poached tigers, according to Duangchantrasiri.

Conservationists have also been working to restore the population of key tiger prey, such as the sambar deer. Duangchantrasiri believes the increase in deer has also contributed to the tiger populations recovery.

The cub sighting is a critical turning point, according to conservationists in Thailand.

This is a big news for us, said Rattapan Pattanarangsan, the conservation programme manager at the NGO Panthera Thailand. But now we are the source, we can produce tigers from our place. That means our place is safe enough and has enough prey for the mothers to eat and breed.

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As the largest mammal in America, the bison yields several hundred pounds of meat on average when slaughtered -- which is a lot of steak! If you've never cooked a bison steak, you might think it is similar to beef. After all, bison are just big cows, right? While the two types of meat do share similarities, it's important to highlight the differences in the meat and how they affect the cooking process. If cooked right, bison meat is prized for being both juicy and tender. But similar to venison, bison meat is leaner than beef.

In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, bison meat has little to no marbling in its meat. For this reason, it's a deeper, darker color than you would expect from beef. This may come as a surprise to some steak lovers who praise a fatty cut of meat. For the uninitiated, marbling is white bits of intramuscular fat found in meat. Notably, beef has a lot of marbling throughout. Marbling gets its name from the marble pattern that the fat makes through the meat. For beef, marbling plays an important role when it comes to the grading of steaks.

Read more: The 13 Best Steaks For Grilling

How Bison Differs From Beef

seared bison steak cut on a board - hlphoto/Shutterstock

The USDA grading scale for beef places heavy importance on marbling, with the highest grade of beef, USDA Prime, having the most marbling. Graders also consider the type of marbling, with fine marbling, which is typically thinner and more distributed, being prized. Think Wagyu beef, for instance. With that in mind, how is bison meat ranked if it has little to no marbling?

According to the USDA, bison meat isn't graded in the United States, so you don't have the same sliding scale as you would with beef. However, the Canada Bison Grading System grades bison meat based on its age and muscling, color, and the amount of fat/types of fat present in the meat. With the lack of marbling, you would think bison meat would be less appealing to steak lovers. However, when cooked properly, bison meat can be just as tender, if not more tender than beef. Likewise, while beef and bison meat may taste similar, there are some subtle differences. In particular, bison meat has a denser, sweeter flavor compared to the lighter, more savory flavor of beef.

How To Cook Bison Steaks

raw bison steaks - hlphoto/Shutterstock

So, how should you cook a bison steak to be tender and juicy and not extra chewy and tough? Cooking a bison steak isn't too different from cooking a regular ribeye or sirloin. Think of cooking bison as a cross between cooking beef and venison. Since the meat has very little marbling, you should consider using the reverse sear method rather than the front sear method.

The reverse sear method involves cooking the steak slowly on a low heat and then finishing by browning the outside of the meat. The reverse sear method is preferred here because high temperatures can be ruinous to the more delicate meat. You don't have that fat shield as you do with beef to protect the meat from burning. The last thing you want to do with a bison steak is overcook it. Overcooking the steak will dry out the meat. Instead, the best way to enjoy a bison steak is medium rare as it allows the lean meat to remain juicy and tender. A few other things to keep in mind  let your bison steak reach room temperature before cooking for a more even cooking. Also, let your steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking for more flavorful, juicier results.

Read the original article on Daily Meal.
There are very few tasks as annoying as putting away laundry, and this story out of Australia may want to make you delegate this chore to someone else in your family forever.

While looking in her three-year-old toddler's underwear drawer, a mom discovered an incredibly venomous eastern brown snake.

The video was shared on Facebook by snake hunter Mark Pelley, and in the video you can hear him saying, "Oh, there he is! A brown snake in an underwear drawer. That's not something you see every day. That's impressive, isn't it?" Impressive? More like terrifying!

Related: Gorgeous Pink Corn Snake Has Ridiculously Romantic Enclosure

The mom in the video thinks the snake likely crawled into a pile of laundry and entered the home when the boy's mother took the clothing in from a line outside, hiding in the laundry basket until the clothing was put away. That's pretty lucky she wasn't bitten when that happened!

Eastern brown snakes are found throughout eastern Australia and in isolated populations in central and western parts of the country, as well as in southern and eastern New Guinea. They are "fast-moving, aggressive and known for their bad temper," according to Australian Geographic, which ranks it as the most dangerous snake in the country.

Other Weird Places Snakes Have Been Found

Snakes are extremely important to the ecosystem and control the pest and insect populations of the world, but it's still pretty alarming when they show up somewhere unexpected, even if they are the non-venomous sort.

Two days ago, a snake was discovered in the overhead luggage bin on a flight from Bangkok. Official said it was a "very rare incident." Talk about snakes on a plane!

A black snake was recently discovered in a Queensland public toilet. The wildlife carer and snake catcher was called by police to the public bathroom after a local, surprised by the reptile, summoned them for help.

In Green Bay this past September an exotic python snake was found curled up in a car engine. The snake was rescued and transported for care at a sanctuary.

In December of last year ,a deadly red bellied black snake was found taking a snooze in the dog bed that belonged to the family Dachshund in a home in Australia. Thankfully, no one was injured.

I don't know about y'all, but I'm gonna be very careful the next time I open up an underwear drawer in my house!

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Editors Note: If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988. To reach the Native and Strong Lifeline, call 988 and press 4.

Amanda MorningStar has watched her children struggle with mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts. She often wonders why.

Were family-oriented and we do stuff together. I had healthy pregnancies. Were very protective of our kids, said MorningStar, who lives in Heart Butte, Montana, a town of about 600 residents on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

Yet despite her best efforts, MorningStar said, her family faces a grim reality that touches Native American communities nationwide. About a year ago, her 15-year-old son, Ben, was so grief-stricken over his cousins suicide and two classmates suicides that he tried to kill himself.

Their deaths made me feel like part of me was not here. I was gone. I was lost, said Ben MorningStar.

He spent more than a week in an inpatient mental health unit, but once home, he was offered sparse mental health resources.

Non-Hispanic Indigenous people in the United States die by suicide at higher rates than any other racial or ethnic group, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The suicide rate among Montanas Native American youth is more than five times the statewide rate for the same age group, according to the Montana Budget and Policy Center. Montana ranked third-worst among states for suicide deaths in 2020, and 10% of all suicides in the state from 2017 through 2021 were among Native Americans, even though they represent only 6.5% of the states population.

Despite decades of research into suicide prevention, suicide rates among Indigenous people have remained stubbornly high, especially among Indigenous people ages 10 to 24, according to the CDC. Experts say thats because the national strategy for suicide prevention isnt culturally relevant or sensitive to Native American communities unique values.

Suicide rates have increased among other racial and ethnic minorities, too, but to lesser degrees.

Systemic issues and structural inequities, including underfunded and under-resourced services from the federal Indian Health Service, also hamper suicide prevention in Indigenous communities. I worried who was going to keep my son safe. Who could he call or reach out to? There are really no resources in Heart Butte, said Amanda MorningStar.

Ben MorningStar said he is doing better. He now knows not to isolate himself when problems occur and that it is OK to cry, and I got friends I can go to when I have a bad day. Friends are better than anything, he said.

His twice-a-month, 15-minute virtual telehealth behavioral therapy visits from IHS were recently reduced to once a month.

Mary Cwik, a psychologist and senior scientist at the Center for Indigenous Health at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, said the systemic shortcomings MorningStar has witnessed are symptoms of a national strategy that isnt compatible with Indigenous value systems.

It is not clear that the creation of the national strategy had Indigenous voices informing the priorities, Cwik said.

The cause of high suicide rates in Indigenous communities is complex. Native Americans often live with the weight of more adverse childhood experiences than other populations  things such as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, substance misuse, mental illness, parental separation or divorce, incarceration, and poverty.

Those adverse experiences stack upon intergenerational trauma caused by racial discrimination, colonization, forced relocation, and government-sanctioned abduction to boarding schools that persisted until the 1970s.

Theres no way that communities shaped by these forces for so long will get rid of their problems fast by medical services. A lot of people in Indian Country struggle to retain hope. Its easy to conclude that nothing can fix it, said Joseph P. Gone, a professor of anthropology and global health and social medicine at Harvard University and member of the Gros Ventre (Aaniiih) tribal nation of Montana.

Most tribal nations are interested in collaborative research, but funding for such work is hard to come by, said Gone. So is funding for additional programs and services.

Stephen OConnor, who leads the suicide prevention research program at the Division of Services and Intervention Research at the National Institute of Mental Health, said, Given the crisis of suicide in Native American populations, we need more funding and continued sustained funding for research in this area.

Getting grants for scientific research from NIMH, which is part of the National Institutes of Health, can be challenging, especially for smaller tribes, he said.

Amanda MorningStar says her family faces a grim reality that touches Native Americans nationwide. About a year ago, her son was so grief-stricken over his cousin's and two classmates' suicides that he tried to kill himself. (Amanda MorningStar) - Amanda MorningStar

Officials at the NIMH and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration said that they continue to build research partnerships with tribal nations and that they recently launched new grants and multiple programs that are culturally informed and evidence-based to reduce suicide in tribal communities.

NIMH researchers are even adjusting a commonly used suicide screening tool to incorporate more culturally appropriate language for Indigenous people.

Teresa Brockie, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, is one of a small but growing number of researchers, many of whom are Indigenous, who study suicide prevention and intervention strategies that respect Indigenous beliefs and customs. Those strategies include smudging  the practice of burning medicinal plants to cleanse and connect people with their creator.

Without this understanding, research is hampered because people in tribal communities have universal mistrust of health care and other colonized systems that have not been helpful to our people or proven to be supportive, said Brockie, a member of Fort Belknap reservations Aaniiih Tribe.

Brockie is leading one of the first randomized controlled trials studying Indigenous people at Fort Peck. The project aims to reduce suicide risk by helping parents and caregivers deal with their own stress and trauma and develop positive coping skills. Its also working to strengthen childrens tribal identity, connectivity, and spirituality.

In 2015, she reported on a study she led in 2011 to collect suicide data at the Fort Peck reservation in northeastern Montana. She found that adverse childhood experiences have a cumulative effect on suicide risk and also that tribal identity, strong connections with friends and family, and staying in school were protective against suicide.

In Arizona, Cwik is collaborating with the White Mountain Apache Tribe to help leaders there evaluate the impact of a comprehensive suicide surveillance system they created. So far, the program has reduced the overall Apache suicide rate by 38.3 % and the rate among young people ages 15 to 24 by 23%, according to the American Public Health Association.

Several tribal communities are attempting to implement a similar system in their communities, said Cwik.

Still, many tribal communities rely on limited mental health resources available through the Indian Health Service. One person at IHS is tasked with addressing suicide across almost 600 tribal nations.

Pamela End of Horn, a social worker and national suicide prevention consultant at IHS, said the Department of Veterans Affairs has a suicide coordinator in every medical center across the U.S., plus case managers, and they have an entire office dedicated to suicide prevention. In Indian Health Service it is just me and thats it.

End of Horn, a member of the Oglala Lakota Sioux Tribe of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, blames politics for the discrepancy.

Tribal leaders are pushing for more suicide prevention programs but lack political investment. The VA has strong proactive activities related to suicide and the backing of political leaders and veterans groups, she said.

It is also hard to get mental health professionals to work on remote reservations, while VA centers tend to be in larger cities.

Even if more mental health services were available, they can be stigmatizing, re-traumatizing, and culturally incongruent for Indigenous people.

Many states are using creative strategies to stop suicide. A pilot project by the Rural Behavioral Health Institute screened more than 1,000 students in 10 Montana schools from 2020 to 2022. The governor of Montana is hoping to use state money to expand mental health screening for all schools.

Experts say the kinds of strategies best suited to prevent suicide among Native Americans should deliver services that reflect their diversity, traditions, and cultural and language needs.

Thats what Robert Coberly, 44, was searching for when he needed help.

Coberly began having suicidal thoughts at 10 years old.

I was scared to live and scared to die. I just didnt care, said Coberly, who is a member of the Tulalip Tribes.

He suffered in private for nearly a decade until he almost died in a car crash while driving drunk. After a stay at a rehabilitation center, Coberly remained stable. Years later, though, his suicidal thoughts came rushing back when one of his children died. He sought treatment at a behavioral health center where some of the therapists were Indigenous. They blended Western methodologies with Indigenous customs, which, he said, I was craving and what I needed.

Part of his therapy included going to a sweat lodge for ritual steam baths as a means of purification and prayer.

Coberly was a counselor for the Native and Strong Lifeline, the first 988 crisis line for Indigenous people. He is now one of the crisis line tribal resource specialists connecting Indigenous people from Washington state with the resources they need.

Its about time we had this line. To be able to connect people with resources and listen to them is something I cant explain except that I was in a situation where I wanted someone to hear me and talk to, said Coberly.

Amanda MorningStar said she still worries about her son night and day, but he tries to reassure her.

I go to sleep and wake up the next day to keep it going, Ben MorningStar said. I only get one chance. I might as well make the best of it.

Correction: A previous version of this story misstated the percentage of suicide deaths in Montana among Native Americans from 2017 through 2021.

KFF Health News, formerly known as Kaiser Health News (KHN), is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF  the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism.

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Flexport is turning to one of its longtime e-commerce partners to raise more money, reeling in $260 million from Shopify after a year of sluggish performance which resulted in the return of founder Ryan Petersen as CEO and multiple sets of layoffs.

Shopify owned a 17 percent equity stake in Flexport as of June 30, 2023, having sold its logistics arm to the digital freight forwarder for the position a month prior. The sale included its Deliverr e-commerce fulfillment technology and last-mile delivery business, which were used to help Flexport build its end-to-end supply chain service for SMBs, Revolution.

More from Sourcing Journal

Petersen revealed the funding Friday in a series of posts on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Since I came back to the role of CEO, our team has made massive progress toward returning Flexport to profitability, said Petersen. Further strengthening our cash position with this investment should send a strong message to customers that Flexport is building a long-term sustainable business that will continue to deliver best-in-class technology and services for global businesses. This is an important milestone along our journey to build an end-to-end logistics technology platform to make global commerce so easy that there will be more of it.

Petersen identified the companys fortress balance sheet as one of Flexports strategic assets as it navigates an uncertain global trade environment in which both the Suez Canal and the Panama Canal are seeing disruptions. Petersen has said as recently as October that the digital freight forwarder has more than $1 billion in net cash.

According to The Information, Shopify also gave Flexport a $40 million cash infusion as part of the deal.

Flexport would not comment further on the matter.

In his post Friday, Petersen thanked Shopify CEO Tobi Lutke and the tremendous vote of confidence in the business. The two digital-heavy companies have been close partners in recent years, especially as more businesses required more supply chain digitization initiatives to gain visibility into product movement and inventory management.

The Toronto-headquartered e-commerce giant, which powers online websites for fashion, apparel and footwear brands like Fashion Nova, Gymshark, Allbirds and Chubbies also holds a seat on Flexports board of directors.

Shopify has been a previous participant in funding rounds at Flexport, entering a $935 million Series E round in February 2022 that brought the company an $8 billion valuation at the time. And in February 2023, Flexport launched an app on Shopify that helps the online giants merchants quote, book, track and ship inbound ocean shipments.

But the move to raise money also raises concerns, especially since Petersens message of profitability has been so prominent since his return to the CEO post in September, when former CEO and Petersens then-successor Dave Clark exited the firm after a little over a year in the role.

One of Petersens criticisms of the business under Clarks tenure was that the company was spending too much money, with revenue plummeting as much as 70 percent throughout the first half, a September report from The Information said.

In total, Flexport had already raised nearly $2.4 billion in equity and debt before the new Shopify round. Another $260 million in capital suggests that the company needs more outside help to in addition to the the cash pile it currently has on hand.

Seemingly contradicting the short-term need to keep costs down, Flexport spent more money in acquiring the technology of now-defunct digital trucking marketplace Convoy. Petersen called the deal modest relative to its value.

Petersen believes that deal will have long-term benefits. When the announcement was officially made in November, he said the acquisition would allow Flexport to significantly lower our carrier costs on our truckload and eventually our drayage and cartage business.

Flexports relationship with Shopify has come in handy, with the freight forwarder securing the new funding in a time when venture capital firms are holding back on investments.

Through the first nine months of 2023, total venture capital deals for supply chain technology companies declined nearly 29 percent to 591 from the year-ago totals, according to data from Pitchbook. The total deal value as of Sept. 30 was $7.9 billion, down 71.5 percent from the $27.7 billion in venture capital funding provided through the first nine months of 2022.
A plaque in the center of Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, reminds tourists that the residents of that state take the primaries very seriously. Since 1920, the state has been the first to vote in the primaries. The sign, outside the state Capitol, states that New Hampshire voters have routinely favored the candidate who ultimately reaches the Oval Office. Joe Biden, however, won the Democrat Partys nomination and the White House after finishing fifth in New Hampshire, winning only 8.4% of the vote. Perhaps thats why the now-president has pushed to change the calendar for the Democratic primaries. But while Iowa Democrats agreed not to hold the vote last week, New Hampshire has rebelled. And the quarrel over the calendar has meant that Biden will be left off the ballot.

Twenty-one names are on the Democratic ballot, including one president  but in name only  President R. Boddie, of Atlanta. Also on the ballot is Vermin Supreme, an eccentric activist known for wearing a rubber boot as a hat and carrying a giant toothbrush. Of all of them, the only ones with some political weight are Congressman Dean Phillips and self-help book writer Marianne Williamson, who ran in 2020, but withdrew before voting began.

Biden is not disqualified, nor has his eligibility been questioned. This is what has happened to Donald Trump, who is set to be left off the ballot in Colorado and Maine for his role in the January 6, 2021 assault on the U.S. Capitol. Biden simply missed the deadlines to register as part of the effort to push back the New Hampshire vote.

Although his name does not appear on the ballot, citizens can vote for him by writing his name in the blank box reserved for this purpose. Biden has not campaigned in the state, but his supporters have been encouraging voters to do this to make sure the president clearly wins the vote. A political action committee called Granite for America is sending out three-step instructions on how to cast a write-in vote. This type of voting in the Democrat primaries makes it difficult to count the votes, as the machines do not detect the name, only that the ballot has been cast for an alternative candidate and must be processed manually.

Changing the calendar

Biden urged the Democratic National Committee (DNC) last year to change the order of the primaries, shifting the kickoff from the Iowa caucuses (a white, conservative, religious state) to the South Carolina primary. The goal was to give more power to Black and other minority voters, who are crucial to the partys rank and file. In February, the Democratic Party approved a new calendar starting with the South Carolina primary on February 3, followed three days later by the New Hampshire and Nevada primaries.

But New Hampshire objected, arguing that it has traditionally held the countrys inaugural primaries  a point even regulated in state law. State law gives New Hampshire Secretary of State, Republican David Scanlan, the exclusive authority to set the date of the 2024 primary. As has been the case for 40 years, he set it for the Tuesday of the week following the Iowa caucuses. State law also states that primaries must be held at least seven days before any other primary.

New Hampshire has a tradition, and New Hampshire has a law, and both the tradition and the law were going to be followed no matter what, Scanlan said in November, when setting the date. In his opinion, altering the calendar to favor more racially diverse states sets a bad precedent. At what point does a state become too old, or too wealthy, or too educated, or too religious to hold an early primary? he argued.

The DNC asked its partys candidates not to register for the New Hampshire primary, and Biden  the driving force behind the calendar reform  complied. But that did not stop the process or prevent other presidential hopefuls from registering. In a final twist, the DNC  which governs the nomination process  decided that even if there are primaries, delegates will not be assigned based on their results. The New Hampshire prosecutor has accused the Democrats of voter suppression.

Biden is not the first president not to run in the New Hampshire primary. In 1968, Lyndon B. Johnson did not register and still won thanks to write-in votes. However, his victory was tight and a few weeks later, he announced that he would not run for re-election. Biden, for now, appears to have a large lead. A recent survey by CNN and the University of New Hampshire indicated that 69% of Democratic primary voters plan to write Bidens name on the ballot, well ahead of Phillips, who is polling at 7%, and Williamson, who is at 6%. The disadvantage of this system is that voters have to write the presidents name on the ballot. But the upside is that Joe Biden is an easy name to write.

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If one thing unites Sybil Piper, Irene Strange and Daphne Washbrook, besides their indefatigable spirit and can-do nature, its that when they were young women growing up in the South of England during the mid-20th century, they all sought a little extra excitement from life. Now aged 98, 90 and 82 respectively, they can heartily agree they found it.

In 2024, the Royal Air Force (RAF) will mark 30 years since Flight Lieutenant Jo Slater became the services first female operational pilot. Many have followed in her contrails, but before her, women had been playing just as crucial  though slightly less conspicuous  roles in helping to keep our skies safe for decades.

Piper, Strange and Washbrook were three of them. They each had their reasons for joining what was the Womens Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) and the Womens Royal Air Force (WRAF), yet found the same camaraderie and sense of belonging once they got there.

Piper, the eldest of the three, is the only one who joined at a time of war. In 1944, at the age of 19, she began work at RAF Medmenham in Buckinghamshire, before becoming a special duties clerk at Bletchley Park during one of the busiest times for the code-breaking centre. Throughout World War Two, some 7,500 women worked at Bletchley, making up around 75 per cent of the workforce.

We specialised in photographic intelligence at Medmenham, so it was all top secret and very demanding, an exacting job, she says. It was my role to coordinate maps for the plotters, we had to work together, but it was like stepping into another world, the discipline and demands of it. But it stood me in good stead for the rest of my life.

When VE Day came, she experienced relief as well as a strange sense of loss. Suddenly, the job had changed. Times were different. I shouldnt say this, but in wartime we were there for a purpose. When it finished we wondered what would happen. We won the war, then suddenly it was all over. So peacetime I found different. In wartime, we were on duty, in service for the country. That wasnt there after.

She moved to RAF Odiham in Hampshire, near her home in Farnborough (and current home in Aldershot), where she was allowed to fly in an RAF aircraft of her choice, as a treat. I chose the Spitfire, obviously, and went up around Hampshire with one of the flying aces Fantastic.

It was a different life in peacetime, more relaxed. Where once we used to be flying every hour of every day, now that wasnt the case. She continued clerical work at Odiham, but left in 1947 aged 22 for a new career working in education, and married three years later. Her husband James died 15 years ago.

Piper, second from left, commemorating the Battle of Britain with other RAF veterans in 2023 - Oliver Dixon

Irene Strange mainly wanted to see the world when she joined the WRAF in Reading in 1951 at the age of 17. A post to RAF Wilmslow came first, before she trained as a teleprinter operator, as well as a specialist in Morse code. She moved around the country before re-meeting her childhood classmate, Albert, with whom she fell in love.

He was in the Navy, and we travelled everywhere. Sailing the Red Sea to the Port of Aden, Ethiopia, Libya So she managed it, seeing the world, and gained more life experience than she ever imagined possible? Oh yes.

Daphne Washbrook, on the other hand, joined the WRAF in 1958 at the age of 17 with a lower bar to clear: I just wanted to get away from home, to be quite honest. Pushed, she admits she also wanted to become a nurse, but growing up in Dagenham, her family werent able to help her train. I didnt know anybody in the Forces at all, I just wanted to get away. And I thoroughly enjoyed it.

As the eldest of five sisters, I was used to a bit of responsibility, which came in handy once I was a nurse in the Air Force. And I loved the life, it was the Princess Marys Royal Air Force Nursing Service at that time. I found a husband there, too. He was a medic, Gerald, on national service.

When the two of them intended to wed, they were faced with a choice between staying in the Forces and marriage, such was the convention at the time. In the end, love won I suppose, she says. They left, together, in 1960. But it left a lasting impression. Oh it did, I nursed in civilian hospitals afterwards, but kept in touch with the military. It felt like joining a family, the RAF.

Its something you hear often from veterans and ex-service people, the notion that once you wear uniform, you have a bond for life with your chosen branch of the military, and anybody else who also served. In some ways that connection is unspoken: an ease with one another, an ability to share experiences and spot one of your own.

In other ways, its a more literal sense of lifelong care, such as in the work of the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFB), one of four charities supported by the Telegraph Christmas Charity Appeal. For over 100 years, the charity has been supporting members of the RAF Family through thick and thin. This means anything from practical support  offering lifts, helping to buy household goods or even food when the means arent available  to emotional support, such as arranging regular coffee mornings for isolated elderly members.

Something that happens is that people die, and you get cut adrift, Piper says of ageing, matter-of-factly. That doesnt happen thanks to the [RAFB], theyre all such kind people who do community engagement and make sure youre not forgotten. Piper has very little family and very few friends left, she says. Without the charity, shed be even more alone.

Piper is particularly grateful to the Benevolent Fund's community engagement - Oliver Dixon

Irene, by contrast, received a grant that allowed her to purchase a new dishwasher. If that seems a trivial thing, consider the difference it would make to her quality of life, as a widow with very limited funds. A small, vital act of charity by an organisation that looks after its own.

Strange eventually became a journalist in the Middle East and North Africa, but returned to the UK to run guesthouses for the homeless for 25 years in Southsea. When Covid hit, isolation did, too. Again, the RAFB were there to help.

Since then, weve connected with other WRAF veterans. We have been taken to lunch and meet up monthly with different ladies. Theres a great camaraderie at our ages, and we have a sense of togetherness.

Thats what Piper feels. Two years short of a century, she looks back on life with a great sense of satisfaction, she says. It has been 77 years since she left the Royal Air Force, but thanks to its remarkable Benevolent Fund, the Royal Air Force never left her.

Ive always been hardworking and given it my best, but it was a remarkable experience, and Im sure its my service training that has stood me in good stead throughout my life, Piper says. What the RAFB gives you, more than anything, is a sense of security. And at our age, thats important.

The RAF Benevolent Fund is one of four charities supported by the Telegraph Christmas Charity Appeal. The others are Go Beyond, Race Against Dementia and Marie Curie. To make a donation, please visit telegraph.co.uk/2023appeal or call 0151 284 1927

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The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has requested a probe into the export competitiveness of several burgeoning trade locales.

The growth of apparel supply chains in Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia and Pakistan will be the subject of a new fact-finding investigation by the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC). The independent and nonpartisan federal agency will conduct a comparison of export data from 2013, 2018 and 2023 in order to analyze changing patterns, significant sourcing shifts and relative growth against other suppliers.

More from Sourcing Journal

USITC will deliver country-specific apparel industry profiles as a part of the report. Data about the each nations relative U.S. market share, apparel sector investments, vertical integration, labor productivity, input sourcing and duty-free access to the U.S. market will be included. The research will take into account industry structure, pricing and costs, product differentiation and reliability. USITC will analyze and review the key determinants of export competitiveness across the global apparel industry to contextualize the findings.

With U.S. apparel sourcing becoming more diversified, the commissioning of the report should shed light on an evolving trade landscape, according to National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) president and CEO Kim Glas. The trade group welcomes the information-gathering exercise and expects to see robust reporting emerge. I dont recall the last time there was a study related to these particular countries, which are all powerhouses in apparel and textile production, she said.

Increasingly frayed trade ties with China, along with the growing strengths and benefits of other markets, have led companies to form new partnerships in Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia and Pakistan in recent years. While the Biden Administration and USTR have been vocal supporters of forging stronger trade relationships outside of China, Glas believes more information is needed to better understand the shifts in textile and apparel trade, and the scope of import penetration.

Weve long called for these kinds of analyses to be done, especially for a lot of the Asian countries that are major importers into the United States, she said. U.S. textile and apparel manufacturers compete against these growing markets on an unbalanced economic playing field, she added. Some markets involved in the report engage in predatory trade practices, while suppliers from certain countries have been cited for using forced labor and operating under subpar safety conditions or with limited social and environmental oversight.

Were hoping that as part of this analysis, and as part of the public comment period, these issues will come to light so we can better understand both the scope of their industry, and also some of the unfair competition, Glas said.

Some past USITC analysis has spurred a public policy response, and thats a possibility this time around. Findings surrounding input sourcing, for example, may reveal that some of the supply chains being investigated are contaminated by Xinjiang cotton. This could inform enforcement of the UFLPA and de minimis policy moving forward, Glas added. It could inform how to strengthen our Western Hemisphere free trade agreements.

USITC plans to hold a public hearing as a part of the investigative process on Mar. 7 in Washington, D.C. The report is slated to be submitted to USTR by by Aug. 30. Requests to appear at the hearing must be submitted by Feb. 21, and written submissions must be received by Mar. 22.
Amazing new footage captures the moment when thousands of fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) create a life-saving raft by interlocking their limbs and mandibles.

The clip, from National Geographic's new series "A Real Bug's Life," which premieres on Disney+ on Jan 24, shows a colony of fire ants living beneath a water feature in the backyard of a home in Texas. As the water level starts to rise, the colony is seen collecting their babies and banding together before being swept over a waterfall and into a swimming pool.

a floating raft of fire ants in a swimming pool

Related: Watch translucent cockroach babies burst from their egg cases in skin-crawling footage

Ants are known for their collective social behavior in large colonies. When they try to swim, however, their kicking legs actively repel one another. Despite this repulsion, fire ants in groups of 10 or more are forced together by a phenomenon called the " Cheerios effect," which is caused by surface tension. This occurs when small objects, like cheerios in a bowl of milk, create a concave indentation on the liquid's surface that brings nearby objects together into clusters.

a yellow rubber duck with sunglasses with thousands of fire ants perched on its head

The fire ants exploit this phenomenon to protect their queen . The larvae, pupae and worker ants are brought together, then interlock their legs and jaws to form a large raft that dips in slightly at the center. Then they place the queen on top, sitting safely in the center of this massive raft. .

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The ants' nest was found while scouting backyard locations for shooting footage. Location scouts turned on a water feature in a pool, unaware that a colony of fire ants was living inside. The fire ants then flooded the pool. Bill Markham, the series producer, told Live Science that they recorded this intricate behavior with the help of Drexel University entomologist, Sean O'Donnell , using "macro lenses, split-level housings and super slow motion". Although the team did not count how many ants were part of the raft, Markham said "there were easily 5,000 on this occasion" and to their surprise, they found the ants collected trapped air bubbles to keep the raft afloat and remain buoyant.

By smooshing together to protect their queen, they create a structure that "would take 400 times their body weight to break" said Markham. He added that these rafts can stay afloat for 12 days, but in this case they found a pool noodle and got to dry land within a few minutes.
On Season 8, Episode 3 of "Shark Tank," legendary cookie seller Wally Amos of Famous Amos sought a $50,000 investment for 20% equity in his cookie business, Cookie Kahuna. The sharks expressed respect and admiration for Amos' accomplishments in selling cookies as the creator of the iconic famous cookie company, but Amos didn't land an investor. However, his story provided an invaluable lesson for entrepreneurs on the importance of business savvy. Unfortunately for Amos, poor decision-making landed him in front of the sharks, seeking help to reclaim his cookie brand.

Amos was the first African American agent to work at William Morris (now William Morris Endeavor), the talent agency that has been around since 1898. Amos represented artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, The Supremes, Sam Cooke, and Marvin Gaye. Amos began making chocolate chip cookies in 1970, and their popularity led him to form Famous Amos.

Unfortunately, Amos lacked the business savvy to run Famous Amos against cookie competitors. As a result, he sold his equity several times to obtain support from investors. Amos was eventually bought out completely, forfeiting the rights to his name and image of Famous Amos. The cookie maker eventually pivoted in 2012 to form Cookie Kahuna, a bakery in Honolulu where Amos sold cookies using his recipes from the 1970s. But instead of getting the support he needed from the sharks for the future, his appearance on "Shark Tank" became another lesson from his past.

Read more: Cake Hacks Every Baker Will Wish They Knew Sooner

Cookie Kahuna Didn't Get An Investor On Shark Tank

Wally Amos on Shark Tank - ABC/YouTube

Considering Amos' story of how he formed and lost Famous Amos, the sharks were curious about why he was trying to start over again. Amos said, "Because I love cookies. And I think that I can build a business out of this cookie and replicate what I did with Famous Amos years ago."

However, there were issues that the sharks felt made Cookie Kahuna unworthy of an investment. Although Amos had already successfully created an iconic cookie favorite, his mishandling of Famous Amos wouldn't allow any sharks to capitalize on that success as investors in Cookie Kahuna. Kevin O'Leary explained, "We don't have full access to your image and your name, and so it has all the challenges associated with launching a new brand."

Amos showed charisma to the sharks, clearly indicating that he could sell his cookies, which the sharks thought were tasty. However, Amos' past mistakes continued to cost him. Barbara Corcoran said, "When you sold your business, you not only sold the name, you sold your personality along with it. Without that, the business has very little value." Every shark passed. Amos had struggled to remake his cookie brand for years, and Lori Greiner felt it was time for him to pivot. Greiner encouraged Amos to let go of his cookie pursuits and apply his passion to another business instead.

Amos Continued Cookie Kahuna After Shark Tank

Wally Amos holding a Cookie Kahuna bag - The Cookie Kahuna / Facebook

Following his appearance on "Shark Tank," Amos remained resolute in making Cookie Kahuna successful despite being told on the show to move on from the cookie business. Although he didn't land an investor, there was a way that "Shark Tank" could benefit Amos more than securing an investment. Amos told Business 2 Community, "I needed exposure more than money to create awareness, which would create more sales. I needed exposure to create more media opportunities, which would translate into more sales and media exposure."

Cookie Kahuna products had already been selling online and at Costco locations in Hawaii prior to Amos' appearance on "Shark Tank." And the sharks enjoyed his cookies in front of their national audience. After tasting one of Amos' Hawaii-themed cookies on the show, Barbara Corcoran said, "You have a light, crunchy cookie. It's good."

After the episode aired, Cookie Kahuna gathered some momentum, as Amos reported that the business became more recognized and experienced a spike in sales.From there, Amos believed that Cookie Kahuna would experience continued growth and become more successful. Amos even teased future plans with promises of surprises to come from Cookie Kahuna. However, Amos would ultimately be proven wrong, and it may have been his cookies instead of his business decisions that cost him his company this time around.

Customers Had Mixed Responses To Cookie Kahuna

Cookie Kahuna Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies - Cookie Kahuna

Cookie Kahuna products were, impressively, sold on Amazon. However, the reviews suggest that the products may have been hit and miss with cookie lovers. The company's Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies, which were handmade, only had a 3.3-star rating based on 47 ratings. For one Amazon shopper who ate these cookies, their taste and texture signified a refreshing revival of Amos' cookie brand. They said, "Decadent. Rich. Wonderful. Welcome back, Amos. Yum."

Another customer shared that the tasty texture of the cookies gave them a bit of delicious nostalgia. They commented, "For a packaged cookie, it's good and reminds me of the original 'Famous Amos.' The cookies were crisp and a little crumbly."

However, these cookies were underwhelming to other buyers. The size and flavor of the cookies left such a bad taste in the mouth of one Amazon consumer that they left little doubt about being a repeat customer. They said, "Nothing special about these cookies. Small and dry... disappointing. Won't order again."

Another purchaser declared they weren't deserving of the price. Unfortunately, despite Amos' perseverance, passion, spirit, and selling ability, the lukewarm response of cookie enthusiasts to Cookie Kahuna's products may have contributed to the company's writing on the wall.

Cookie Kahuna Went Out Of Business

Person holding Cookie Kahuna bag - The Cookie Kahuna / Facebook

Cookie Kahuna posted its last Instagram and X, formerly Twitter posts in 2018, and the company went out of business that same year. Not to be deterred, Amos pivoted once again when he tried to launch another cookie company in 2019. The company would have three cookie flavors: Chocolate chip, chocolate chip pecan, and butterscotch with macadamia nuts. To get funding for the business, Amos launched an Indiegogo campaign for the company, but it was unsuccessful. Amos declared Aunt Della's Chocolate Chip Cookies his last cookie business.

"Shark Tank" has provided many lessons about business over the years. For entrepreneurs, there are three essential things to learn from Amos' episode. Educating oneself about business as much as possible is essential, finding the right support systems for your business is critical, and having the proper guidance as you run your business is invaluable. Despite the sadder parts of Amos' story, he is still a legendary entrepreneur with a tremendous product many people enjoy. And all entrepreneurs can learn from the ups and downs of Amos' journey.

Read the original article on Daily Meal.
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).

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.

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Driving out of Tallinn into the wild Estonian countryside, through snowy fields and thick dark forest, Im reminded why I love coming here, to a land that remains untamed, where the past feels so close at hand.

Estonia is only a short flight from London, and Tallinn, its dynamic capital, has all the mod cons youd expect to find in any major European city. Yet you only need to drive a short way out of town to enter another world. There are wolves and bears in these endless woods, and moose and wild boar, and the landscape is littered with the desolate ruins of collective farms  a reminder that, until 1991, Estonia was part of the USSR. Despite its dramatic transformation since independence (its now a member of NATO, the EU and the eurozone), travelling here still feels rather daring, and though the roads are good, the two-hour drive from Tallinn to Tartu is an adventure in itself.

Tartu is Estonias second biggest city, with a rich heritage and a proud history, but for Britons its never been an obvious holiday destination. A little over 100 miles from Tallinn, its just 35 miles from the Russian border, and Putins invasion of Ukraine hasnt helped its tourist trade. Yet this year Tartu is the European Capital of Culture (www.tartu2024.ee), and if the experiences of previous host cities are anything to go by, its year-long season of artistic events should attract lots of foreign sightseers. So what will you find if you decide to come here? And is it worth the trek?

A river view of Tartu, Estonia - Alexander Makarov / Alamy

Tartu is renowned throughout eastern Europe for its ancient, illustrious university. Founded in 1632, its history reflects the history of Estonia itself. Established by Swedish invaders and then revived by Russian colonists, after the First World War it became a bastion of Estonias new-found, hard-won independence  only to be swallowed up by the Soviets (along with the rest of Estonia) at the end of the Second World War. When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991 it became Estonian again, attracting students from all over Europe. Today its widely regarded as the leading university in the Baltic States.

Tartus academic status gives it a stature quite out of keeping with its compact size. Its neoclassical college buildings dominate the city centre, and its big student population (about 15,000, out of a general population of 100,000) lends it a lively, youthful buzz. The most atmospheric student bar is Pussirohu (www.pyss.ee), housed in a cavernous old arsenal, with bench seats and trestle tables, and lots of tasty local beers on tap. If youd prefer somewhere a bit more debonair, Werner (www.werner.ee) is an elegant, old-fashioned cafe, serving aromatic coffee and seductive cream cakes.

The Town Hall Square in Tartu, Estonia - Peter Forsberg / Alamy

The antique city centre is charming, but theres not a great deal of it. If youre here for a few days, youll want to head a bit further afield. The rest of the city isnt so picturesque, but even the bleaker bits are full of interest  a hotchpotch of architectural styles from Tartus long periods of foreign occupation, and its shorter periods of independence. There are lots of traditional wooden houses from the Tsarist era  some of them dilapidated, others lovingly restored.

Most of the Soviet buildings are pretty grim, but intriguing nonetheless. The most interesting (and harrowing) site is the KGB Museum (www.muuseum.tartu.ee), housed in the basement of the Grey House (as locals called it, euphemistically) where so many Estonian victims of the Soviet regime were interrogated and tortured.

Its not all doom and gloom. Tartu is a bustling little city, full of busy shops and cafes. Its hard to believe that barely 30 years ago, all private enterprise was forbidden. Window shopping in the city centre, it feels as if the Soviet occupation never happened. There are lots of good places to eat and drink.

Estonia has always been one of my favourite destinations, and now were in a new Cold War, with a new Iron Curtain along Estonias eastern frontier, I relish coming here even more. Its sad to see how much Tartu lost under the Soviets, but its inspiring to witness how much has been restored since independence. Europes latest cultural capital is a city on the up, and I reckon this is the best year to pay a visit.

Tartu is a bustling little city, full of busy shops and cafes - Julius Jansson / Alamy

Coolest corner

The hippest place to hang out in Tartu is a former factory called Aparaaditehas (www.aparaaditehas.ee), which now houses a range of trendy bars, boutiques and restaurants. Drop into Typa (www.typa.ee), an old printworks, now converted into a quaint workshop and museum (I had terrific fun printing my own postcards and even making my own paper).

Refuel at Resto Aparaat (www.aparaadiresto.ee), with its nourishing soups and draught ales  A. Le Coq (www.alecoq.ee) is the local brew. Next door is Fahrenheit 451, a cosy second-hand bookshop named after Ray Bradburys dystopian novel about governmental book-burning. In a place where, not so long ago, so many books were banned, it still feels like a privilege to read whatever you want  a privilege that we in the West take for granted.

Childrens corner

If youre coming here with youngsters, or youre simply young at heart, dont miss Tartus magical Toy Museum (www.mm.ee). Located in an old, brightly painted wooden house, like a forest hideaway in a Grimms fairytale, its an enchanting collection, a window on a lost world.

Must-see sight

In leafy parkland on the edge of town (a military base during the Cold War), the Estonian National Museum (www.erm.ee) is a dramatic time tunnel through the turbulent story of Estonia, from prehistory to independence. The airy, futuristic building is an attraction in its own right.

Signature dish

Classic Estonian food is hale and hearty rather than haute cuisine, and the best place to shop for local produce  bread and cheese, fruit and veg, jam and mustard  is the handsome Art Deco Market Hall (www.visitestonia.com). Look out for the photos of old Tartu on the walls.

Tartu attractions include The Upside Down House - Kumar Sriskandan / Alamy

Greatest export

Kalev (www.kalev.eu) is familiar throughout the Baltic States as Estonias finest chocolatier. There are two factory outlets in Tartu where you can buy chocolates at bargain prices, one right opposite the Market Hall.

Fun fact

Tartu University (www.ut.ee) used to have its own jail, where disobedient students were imprisoned, often for several weeks at a time. Sadly, this fine tradition ended over a century ago, but you can still visit the attic cells, adorned with the vintage graffiti of these unruly undergraduates.

Getting there

Fly direct to Tallinn with Air Baltic (www.airbaltic.com), Ryanair (www.ryanair), or Wizz Air (www.wizzair.com) from as little as 32 return. Tartu can be reached by road or rail.

Where to stay

Stay at Hotell Lydia (www.lydia.ee), a smart modern hotel in the heart of the old town with a stylish spa and one of Tartus best restaurants, Holm (www.holmrestoran.ee)  the buckwheat blinis are delicious. Doubles, including breakfast, from 115 per night.

William Cook travelled to Tartu as a guest of Baltic Holidays (www.balticholidays.com), a British-based travel company with a passion for the Baltic States. Its tailor-made tours, with friendly local guides, take you off the beaten track and reveal the sights most tourists miss.

More curious European cities to discover...

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Java Love Coffee Roasting Co. in Suffern will permanently close Jan. 25.

The announcement was made on the coffee shop's Instagram page, saying it was difficult to bounce back after COVID, especially with the rising costs of doing business.

Java Love Coffee Roasting Company in Suffern will close Jan. 25th. At one point the woman-owned coffee shop was a bank and was also used in the 2019 Martin Scorsese film "The Irishman."

"We have the most amazing customers and team and we have valued everyone who has supported our business for the past five years," the post said. "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing."

The women-owned small batch, coffee roasting company opened Oct. 21, 2019, at the former Capital One at 50 Lafayette St. The owners also have a cafe in Montclair, New Jersey.

This is the second Rockland spot to close less than a month into the new year. Oscar's in Blauvelt closed Jan. 7 after 12 years, also citing the lingering effects of the pandemic along with increasing supply costs.

More: We've already seen 14 new Westchester, Rockland restaurants in 2024. Here's the rundown

Java Love Owners Jodie Dawson and Kristine-Ellis Petrik wrote in their post to please stop by for 20% off all merchandise, beans and food, while supplies last.

Java Love owners Kristine-Ellis Petrik, left, and Jodie Dawson, right, are closing their Suffern store Jan. 25, citing the lingering effects of the pandemic and rising costs.

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Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Rockland County NY Java Love coffee shop to close Jan. 25
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday rejected calls for Palestinian sovereignty following talks with US President Joe Biden about Gazas future, suggesting Israels security needs would be incompatible with Palestinian statehood.

I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state, Netanyahu said in a post on X

The Israeli leader did not provide any other details in his one-line post in Hebrew. The territory west of Jordan encompasses Israel, the occupied West Bank, and Hamas-run Gaza, where Israel is battling the militant group following the October 7 attacks.

Biden and his top officials  including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who visited Israel and the region last week  have said the creation of a Palestinian state with guarantees for Israels security is the only way to finally bring peace and stability to the Middle East.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Sunday called opposition to a two-state solution unacceptable.

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 posted on X.

Amid reports the US, Egypt and Qatar want Israel to join a new phase of talks with Hamas, Netanyahu this weekend also publicly rejected what he characterized as Hamas terms for releasing more Israeli hostages from Gaza: an end of the war, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Palestinian enclave, and the release of more Palestinians from Israeli prisons.

If we agree to this - our soldiers fell in vain. If we agree to this - we will not be able to guarantee the security of our citizens, Netanyahu said Sunday.

Global calls for a Palestinian state

Netanyahus comments comes amid a rift with the US, Israels most important ally, on what Gaza will look like once the conflict ends, and exposes the complex position Netanyahu is in.

The Israeli prime minister is facing competing pressure from the international community to allow the creation of a viable Palestinian state and domestically to guarantee Israels security, most notably from far-right members of his coalition.

Adding to the pressure, he is also facing calls for early elections, with thousands taking to the streets of Tel Aviv on Saturday. Critics have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war to stay in power. War cabinet minister Gadi Eisenkot says he hopes that is not the case, but also says elections should happen within months.

Netanhahus statement on Palestinian sovereignty appears to run counter to what he told President Biden a day earlier, CNN reporting suggests. Netanyahu had told Biden in a private phone call on Friday that he was not foreclosing the possibility of a Palestinian state in any form, a personal familiar with the conversation told CNN.

Self-propelled artillery Howitzers roll in southern Israel along the border with the Gaza Strip on January 19. - Jack Guez/AFP/Getty Images

Biden administration officials have recently been engaged in discussions about a future demilitarized Palestinian state, an idea the US president finds intriguing, the source said.

Following the phone call, their first in weeks, Biden told reporters he believed Netanyahu could ultimately be convinced of some kind of two-state solution. There are a number of types of two-state solutions, he said.

Theres a number of countries that are members of the UN that are still  dont have their own military; a number of states that have limitations, and so I think theres ways in which this can work, Biden added.

But the day after Biden spoke, the Israeli prime ministers office said in a statement: 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 and Netanyahu remain publicly at odds over the question of what will happen to Gaza once the Israel-Hamas war concludes, despite intense American efforts over the past several months to engage officials in Israel and the wider region on a plan they hope can finally resolve the decades-long conflict.

The two-state solution has been the goal of the international community for decades, dating back to the 1947 UN Partition Plan, and many nations say that it is the only way out of the conflict.

President Joe Biden takes questions from members of the press at the White House on January 18. - Samuel Corum/Getty Images

It remains an open question how post-war Gaza will be governed but Netanyahu has had long-standing objections to a two-state solution.

And while Netanyahus stance is contentious internationally, he faces pressure from more right-wing members of his cabinet who have caused outrage with their suggestions on what should happen to people living in Gaza.

Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has championed the idea of a Palestinian exodus from Gaza. He and far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir sparked anger when advocating for the resettlement of Palestinians outside the Gaza Strip.

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Over the weekend, Netanyahu doubled down on his opposition to establishing a Palestinian state after the war, defying the West's push for a so-called two-state solution.

The Israeli premier's remarks were criticised by the bloc's foreign ministers, who, upon arriving at a high-stakes meeting in Brussels, reiterated that the creation of a Palestinian state must be part of future peace negotiations.

"Benjamin Netanyahu's statements are worrying," France's foreign minister Stephane Sejourne told reporters ahead of the meeting. "We need a Palestinian state with security guarantees for all."

Ireland's Micheal Martin described Netanyahu's comments as "unacceptable," urging the Israeli premier to "listen to the vast majority of the world who want peace and who want the two-state solution (...) the ultimate security guarantee to Israel and to Israeli citizens."

"Palestinians can only live in dignity, in security, in freedom if Israel lives in security. That's why the two-state solution is the only solution and those who don't want to know about it have not yet put forward any other alternative," said Germany's Annalena Baerbock.

Her Austrian counterpart, Alexander Schallenberg, considered amongst the bloc's staunchest allies of Israel, also described Netanyahu's statements as "short-sighted," defending the Palestinians' right to self-determination as the "only solution."

"Neither the Israelis will disappear into thin air, nor the Palestinians. They will both have to live side by side in this region," Schallenberg said.

Sharing the displeasure of his colleagues, Latvia's Krisjanis Karins went further by calling on Brussels to use its economic leverage to draw concessions from Israel.

"Europes largest leverage has always been its wallet," Karins said. "The European Union has incredible support money going all around. We see that in internal EU politics, money can help to focus minds, and I think we should start thinking about this internationally."

Speaking to Euronews on Monday, Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki denounced Netanyahu's "impunity," but questioned the bloc's ability to have an impact.

"I don't think that they (EU ministers) can really offer more than condolences," al-Maliki told Euronews. "Yes, they have been trying, but since the war continues and the killing really continues, then (...) I believe that they couldn't achieve that much in terms of any kind of involvement from their part," he added.

Both al-Maliki and his Israeli counterpart Israel Katz, joined discussions with EU foreign ministers but the two are not expected to meet each other.

Katz declined to comment in his remarks to reporters on his prime minister's contentious rejection of the two-state solution and focused his short intervention on the release of hostages.

Also present at the meeting on Monday are the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Under discussion is a 10-step peace roadmap tabled by the bloc's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, who aims to rally the EU and other key international actors around a common plan to halt hostilities in the Gaza Strip, establish an independent Palestinian state and bring long-term security in the region.

Jordan's foreign minister Ayman Safadi also vehemently criticised the Israeli stance, which he described as a "radical racist agenda," and backed the prospect of targeted sanctions to put pressure on Israel.

"Israel, with this current aggression of Gaza (...) is dooming the future of the region to more conflict and more war," Safadi explained, adding that the world should take "measures" against Israel as the "party which is denying the right of the region to live in security."

The high-stakes gathering comes as the death toll in the besieged Gaza Strip tops 25,000, according to its Hamas-run health ministry.

As fighting concentrates in Gaza's main southern city of Khan Younis, fears of regional spillover are also still alive, as intelligence suggests Iran-backed Houthi rebels seek more weapons to increase their attacks on commercial vessels navigating in the Red Sea.

Settler sanctions, Red Sea mission on agenda

The 27 foreign ministers are also expected to discuss EU plans to sanction Israeli settlers responsible for violent attacks in the occupied Palestinian territory of the West Bank, following the US and UK's lead.

On Friday, the bloc established a new sanctions framework to directly target individuals supporting Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, designated as terrorist organisations by the EU.

It also sanctioned a further six individuals responsible for "providing financial support to Hamas," who will now be subject to asset freezes and travel bans to the EU.

But Czech foreign minister Jan Lipavsky said he was unaware that a proposal to sanction Israeli settlers was "seriously on the EU table."

According to diplomatic sources, discussions on sanctioning Israeli settlers are less advanced and are unlikely to be approved separately.

Irish foreign minister Micheal Martin said "one or two countries" were opposing such sanctions and vowed to "push very strongly" to bring those countries on board.

"I'll be talking to those who may have reservations to push strongly for an EU-wide sanctions policy in respect of what's going on in the West Bank because that too is creating huge tensions," Martin said.

Also on the agenda are EU plans to send a naval mission to patrol the Red Sea, where European vessels have been sabotaged by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in recent weeks.

According to a document seen by Euronews, the bloc is mulling sending at least three warships, which according to diplomatic sources are expected to come from Germany, Italy and France. Belgium has also pledged to send its own frigate as part of the EU mission, according to local media.

This article has been updated with new quotes.
Investing with environmental, social and governance criteria (known as ESG) has become one of the fronts of Americas culture wars. Among many investment managers, those initials have become fashionable in recent years. Numerous companies, first American and then from around the world, have embraced sustainability and governance criteria in their management. However, this has caused a backlash. The Republican Party has launched an offensive against the use of such guidelines in investment decisions involving state funds because it considers it to be progressive political activism. The latest step is a bill registered in the New Hampshire state legislature, based in Concord, in which three lawmakers propose that, in certain cases, the use of ESG criteria should be punished with penalties of up to 20 years in prison. The bill sponsors are aware that their proposal is somewhat provocative.

The bill prohibits using ESG criteria to guide the investment of state funds from the New Hampshire State Treasury, executive branch agencies and the state retirement system. One of its provisions states: It shall be a crime punishable by not less than one year and not more than 20 years in prison to violate the provisions of this section by knowingly investing state or taxpayer funds in a manner that violates the duty fiduciary in relation to environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.

One of the sponsors of the bill is Republican Representative Travis J.I. Corcoran, who said that he normally does not respond to journalists because the American media does not care at all about truth, but serves as an apologist / propagandist for the American deep state, but that he would give EL PAIS the benefit of the doubt.

Corcoran argues that Its simple math/statistics/logic that if you narrow your selections in some space (house hunting, adopting a dog, picking a stock fund) that the more criteria you add, the fewer choices you get, and the less likely you are to get the best choice for your primary criteria, in this case, profitability. If were looking for the best violinist in the world, and then decide to narrow our search to left-handed Albanians, we MAY get lucky and still find the absolute best [on the off chance that the best just happened to be a left-handed Albanian], but almost certainly we will find that weve discarded the top dozen best choices.

That may or may not be a problem if were recruiting for an orchestra (is there really a big difference between the best violinist in the world, and the 25th best one?), but when it comes to finances, the distinctions between first, fifth, and 300th place are clear, and are measured in dollars and cents, he continues, noting that the difference between investing in the best fund on the market and investing in the best one managed with ESG criteria will end up producing a huge gap that must be made up by the taxpayers, according to Corcoran, a representative of a Hillsborough County district.

Why should New Hampshire taxpayers have to pay insane amounts of money just to subsidize the luxury beliefs of the credentialed-but-not-actually-very-smart chattering classes? These beliefs, as expressed in ESG rules, encode silly ideas like firms must have a certain number of women on the board (even if there are not many women in the world qualified in the specific area that the company does business) and discriminating against white men in hiring and promotion is beneficial and morally good.

Mike Belcher, another co-sponsor, argues along the same lines and says that ESG investing must be prohibited with state-managed funds because the practice necessarily causes earnings to be lessened by prioritizing criteria other than financial gains. As such, ESG is akin to fraud in that these forgone earnings are instead leveraged for social and political activism. Fraud is a felony offense, and this practice should be treated the same.

"Hilarious"

When Corcoran is asked if he sees the need to impose prison sentences, he answers: Is it necessary? No. Hilarious? Absolutely and discusses his international references: Javier Milei, president of Argentina, or, as I like to think of it, The New Hampshire of South America, has demonstrated the utility of drama, passion, and good stagecraft, he says. While I leave my actual chainsaw in my barn, instead of taking it to the New Hampshire statehouse with me, there is absolutely a place for rhetoric, drama, and humor in the political process, he notes, implicitly admitting that his proposal is somewhat provocative.

Still, he is convinced that the bill will be approved, although not necessarily in 2024. Corcoran says that the idea is to expand Overtons window of acceptable political discourse, alluding to Professor Joseph Overtons theory representing the ideology acceptable to the public as a narrow window, and which maintains that the political viability of an idea depends on whether it is within the range considered acceptable. The political class may laugh at my co-sponsors and I, but the idea of making it criminal for people who cant use a reverse polish notation calculator to make investment decisions based on intuitions and vibes is a good one.

Whether approved or not, the proposal is an example of how for most Republican politicians, ESG criteria are a way to impose a progressive agenda through the back door. The important thing for them is to maximize profit and everything else is woke capitalism nonsense.

The Republican governments of Florida, Texas, Louisiana and South Carolina have already punished investment firms for embracing those criteria. More than a dozen Republican states are promoting anti-ESG laws to prevent public funds from being managed using these criteria or from contracting out to companies that apply them in a way they consider discriminatory.

Vivek Ramaswamy, who was one of the Republican presidential primary candidates, made the fight against woke capitalism and ESG criteria a key issue of his campaign. Ramaswamy bowed out of the race after his disappointing results in the Iowa caucuses and has now endorsed Donald Trump, who espouses a similar view.
The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar have devised a multistage plan for ending the Israel-Hamas war. One problem is that neither Israel nor Hamas has agreed to it. In fact, the final stage of the planthe creation of a Palestinian stateis something that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly and emphatically said he deeply, unalterably opposes.

The diplomatic venture, first reported Sunday by the Wall Street Journal, reflects a deepening fissure between President Joe Biden and Netanyahus government as well as a desperate desireby Biden and the regions Sunni Arab nations, not just Egypt and Qatar but also Jordan, Bahrain, and most notably Saudi Arabiato resume normalized relations, with one another and with Israel, even if it means somehow working around, and imposing conditions of peace on, the combatants.

Prince Turki al-Faisal, the former Saudi ambassador to Washington, said in a recent interview, The present leadership of Hamas, of the [Palestinian Authority], and of Israel should be excluded from any participation in any future political role. They have to pay for what they have done.  All of them are failures.

True words, and its both unusual and refreshing for a Saudi leader to say anything so critical of Palestinian leaders. But its unclear how to get there from herehow to create or facilitate whole new governing leaders or parties in Gaza, the West Bank, or Israel.

Netanyahu all but gave Biden the finger last week when he said a Palestinian state was out of the question and even that Israel must provide security across all its territory west of the Jordan River. The prime minister has registered opposition to a Palestinian state many times, but his comment came right after Bidens top foreign policy officialsSecretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivansaid, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that peace requires a two-state solution and that such a solution is feasible.

The jab prompted Biden to phone Netanyahu for the first time in nearly a month. (The last time the two had spoken, after almost-daily contact, a frustrated Biden said, This conversation is over and hung up.*) Biden said after their latest chat that Netanyahu might agree on a two-state solution, depending on the detailsa claim that Netanyahu publicly disputed, adding a drop of spittle to the spite.

Netanyahu is not alone in his views, though, at least for the moment. Israeli President Isaac Herzog said at Davos on Thursday that Israeli citizens are concerned right now only about their safety. If you ask an average Israeli now about his or her mental state, Herzog said, nobody in his right mind is willing now to think about what will be the solution of the peace agreements.

Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmertwho despises Netanyahusaid on a recent Times of Israel podcast that the Oct. 7 attack could have been defeated or prevented if just 200 Israeli soldiers had been on the Gazan border, where they should have been. However, even Olmert said that Israel must press on with the war until Hamas is defeated.

There is one major wrinkle in this attitude: the Israeli hostages, 132 of whom are believe to be still alive, most of them in Hamas tunnels, where they cant be easily rescued without firefights with Hamas militiamen. A growing number of Israelis have taken to the streetsmany family members of hostages have protested outside Netanyahus housecalling on the prime minister to place the fate of the hostages above his desire for continued war, some calling on him to resign.

Gadi Eisenkot, a member of Netanyahus war Cabinet, recently argued that pursuing the war and freeing the hostages were incompatible aims. We need to stop lying to ourselves, to show courage, and to work toward an extensive deal that will bring the hostages home, he said in an interview with Israel televisions Channel 12. Their time is running out, and every day that goes by is putting their lives in danger. (It is noteworthy that Eisenkot is a general and former chief of staff in the Israeli army, and that his son and nephew were killed in the current war.)

One obstacle both to this demand for a hostage deal, and to the U.S.-Egypt-Qatar peace plan more broadly, is that Hamas leaders have no desire to free all the hostages. Or, rather, they have put forth their own plan, which does call for freeing the hostages and a mutual cease-fire, but only if Hamas is allowed to stay in power in Gazaa condition that the other parties reject.

The peace plan devised by the Biden administration with officials in Cairo and Doha envisions four stages over a period of 90 days. In the first phase, there will be a pause in the fighting, Hamas will release all civilian hostages, while Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, withdraw troops from Gazan towns and cities, and allow freedom of movement within Gaza.

In the second phase, Hamas will free female soldiers held hostage and turn over bodies of those hostages who have been killed, while Israel will free more prisoners. In the third phase, Hamas will release all Israeli fighting-age men (whom they regard as soldiers), and Israel will pull some of its troops outside of Gazas borders.

Finally, in the fourth phase, there will be talks for a permanent cease-fire, normalized relations between Israel and the Sunni Arab nations, and efforts for a clear, irreversible path toward a Palestinian state, as well as an international fund to rebuild Gaza.

Biden and co. hope that the deal amounts to an offer that the Israelis cant refuse. Yes, it means accepting the principle of a Palestinian state, but it also means getting the hostages back and facing a state governed by a different Palestinian Authority that doesnt include Hamas. The alternative is that the war rages on, the hostages remain locked up, and Hamas stays in power, and more Gazan civilians die as collateral damagewhile, at the same time and because of all this, Israel loses more and more support around the globe, including in the United States.

According to U.S. intelligence, more than 100 days into the war, Israel has killed just 20 to 30 percent of Hamas fighters. But more than 25,000 Gazans, many of them women and children, have died in the process. Many thousands more will die as Israeli soldiers try to kill or capture another 20, 30, or 50 percent of Hamas fighters, especially the terrorist groups leaders, many of whom are hiding in their vast network of tunnels. Many of the remaining hostages are being held in these tunnels as well.

Even if the war goes on for another year, Israeli officers at all levels believe there is no way they can destroy all of those tunnels. Which raises the question: What is the point of the war? And shouldnt Israel consider other avenues to security, if they are open?

Of course, before Netanyahu or any other Israeli leader can take the alternative path on the table seriously, they need to get a sense of who will be in charge of this new stateand they need assurances that it wont be Hamas or something like Hamas under a different name.

And this requires Qatar, Egypt, and the other Arab neighbors to do something theyve never donenot just speak up for the Palestinian people but take some responsibility for their plight: visibly doing something to make the Palestinians aspirations for statehood come true instead of just leaving it to Israel (and blaming Israel for the lack of progress).

The latter is beginning to happen. As Blinken said last week at Davos, were seeing a reversal, a flip from the usual pattern of Middle East politics. In the past, when the U.S. had come close to resolving the problem of Palestinian statehood, the Arab and Palestinian leaders turned out to be unprepared for the challenge. The question now, Blinken said, seems to be: Is Israeli society prepared to engage on these questions?

The challenge is complicated, he noted, by the direct security threats that Israel has always faced and that have intensified since Oct. 7. In the past, discussions about a two-state solutionwhether or not theyve been genuinehave not coincided with a war, much less a war thats widening across the region.

Yet the widening of the waralong with the stakes it entails and the possibility of further escalationmakes it more imperative than ever that the basic, long-standing issues of the conflict finally be addressed. The relevant parties have rarely if ever been so aligned in wanting to address them. Yes, the path toward a resolution is still tangled with minefields. The first step then is to start clearing them.
NASA has onboarded another integral partner to its lunar plans by striking a deal with the United Arab Emirates to build part of its lunar Gateway space station and send one of the Arab countrys astronauts on a future Artemis mission.

The deal with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre announced Sunday means the UAE will be responsible for providing the Crew and Science Airlock module to the small station that will act as a temporary home for astronauts during crewed missions at first to the moon, but in time to deep-space destinations including Mars.

It also means a UAE astronaut will get to fly to the station building on the small countrys burgeoning space program that most recently sent its second astronaut to space as part of the six-month-long Crew-6 mission to the International Space Station in 2023.

As chair of the National Space Council, I have made it a priority to enhance international cooperation in space, said Vice President Kamala Harris in a press release. Todays announcement and partnership between the United States and United Arab Emirates advances this important work. By combining our resources, scientific capacity, and technical skill, the U.S. and UAE will further our collective vision for space and ensure it presents extraordinary opportunities for everyone here on Earth.

The UAE joins the U.S., European Space Agency, Japan and Canada among partners on Artemis projects. Russia, which is a partner with the ISS, opted out of involvement with NASAs moon plans.

Ahead of his flight on Crew-6, UAE astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi voiced his hopes his country would have a bigger role to play in deep space.

We are looking toward missions further into space are looking to join Artemis hopefully in the future. I would love to see a UAE flag on the lunar surface carried on the shoulder of a UAE astronaut, he said. Yes I think the UAE is doing a very good job and in the coming 10 years I think well be following the international efforts toward going to space and pushing the boundaries of exploration.

He followed the first UAE astronaut, Hazzaa Al-Mansoori, who flew to the space station for an eight-day stay in 2019 in a Soyuz capsule riding with Russian cosmonauts. AlNeyadi and AlMansoori were the first two selected for the countrys program when it put the call out in 2017, chosen in 2018 among 4,000 applicants. Already, two other UAE astronauts continue to train with NASA in Houston for consideration on future flights.

The UAEs space program has a lot of parts in play. It launched a probe to Mars in 2020 that successfully entered orbit in 2021 and in 2022 had sent a rover as a passenger on a commercial lunar lander that was destroyed when that lander failed to make a successful soft landing several months later in 2023. Those missions along with Earth observation satellites and its growing astronaut plans are the realization of the four facets of the UAE space center that was established in 2006. Its new astronaut class includes the countrys first woman as well.

Making a flight to Gateway doesnt mean the UAE astronaut will walk on the moon, though.

Having completed the successful uncrewed Artemis I flight in 2022, NASA is gearing up to send Artemis II with three NASA and one Canadian astronaut on a short trip around the moon as early as November this year. NASAs current timeline still puts Artemis III as early as December 2025. Thats supposed to be the first mission to send humans, including the first woman, back to the surface of the moon since the end of the Apollo program in 1972.

That mission, though, is dependent on SpaceX completing its Starship and Super Heavy rocket as well as Axiom Space completing new deep-space spacesuits.

NASAs Jim Free, who recently took on the role of Associate Administrator, the top civil servant in NASA, said in 2023 that SpaceX or other commercial partner delays tied to a lunar landing could mean a shuffle in Artemis missions so that Gateway plans move up the manifest.

Gateways timeline for now is tied to Artemis IV, currently on NASAs long-term budget to not occur until at least 2028. Its designed to fly with a bigger version of the Space Launch System rocket with more payload space that has yet to be constructed.

NASA announced it would detail Artemis mission updates during a press conference this Tuesday.

Gateway, which is planned to be about one-sixth the size of the ISS, will offer pressurized temporary living quarters about the size of a studio apartment, and act as a command center for lunar missions. It will feature docking ports for spacecraft like the Orion but also lunar landers and resupply craft.

The outpost is not meant for continuous human presence, but will have the power element as well as the eventual addition of a habitation space, capable of supporting four astronauts for 30 to 60 days.

For the UAE, which will also provide continued engineering support for Gateway, the airlock its providing will allow for crew and science to move from the stations pressurized habitable environment into the vacuum of space. This will be the entry and exit point for astronauts to perform spacewalks such as maintenance on the station and allow for more deep-space science.

The United States and the United Arab Emirates are marking a historic moment in our nations collaboration in space, and the future of human space exploration, said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in the release. We are in a new era of exploration through Artemis  strengthened by the peaceful and international exploration of space. The UAEs provision of the airlock to Gateway will allow astronauts to conduct groundbreaking science in deep space and prepare to one day send humanity to Mars.

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WARREN  And just like that, the lower dam on the Kickemuit River was gone.

After years of planning and months of staging, the 250-foot-wide dam near Child Street went down in just a few days, marking the biggest step yet in the restoration of the 8-mile-long river that runs from headwaters in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, to Mount Hope Bay in Bristol.

The concrete barrier had stood across the Kickemuit since 1883, when it was built to create a reservoir for the storage of drinking water for residents of Warren, Bristol and, later, Barrington.

Bristol County residents have long since ended their reliance on the murky waters held behind the lower dam and a second barricade, built higher up the river, close to the Massachusetts state line, after Hurricane Carol in 1954.

The dams had become a maintenance burden for the Bristol County Water Authority, which since 1998 has been getting its water from the Scituate Reservoir and is hooking up to the Pawtucket system for backup supplies. State authorities found the dams to be critically vulnerable to flooding and other impacts of climate change.

Excavators dismantle the lower dam on the Kickemuit River off Child Street in Warren last Friday.

So, with guidance from Save The Bay and support from a slew of federal and state agencies, an effort began nearly a decade ago to raze the dams and bring the river back to its natural state.

Restoration is part of a statewide program

Removing the dams will mean a narrower river channel flanked by mudflats and marshes, cleaner waters, and, hopefully, more wildlife.

Were restoring the Kickemuit to the tidal system it historically was, said Wenley Ferguson, director of habitat restoration for Save The Bay.

The work comes amid a larger campaign to tear down some of the hundreds of dams that were built across Rhode Islands rivers to power mills and store water. Many no longer serve any purpose and have fallen into disrepair, so in places like the Wood-Pawcatuck River and the Ten Mile River, theyre being demolished to create spawning habitat for fish and improve the natural flow of water.

On the Kickemuit, the earthen embankment that makes up the upper dam was breached first, but only a portion was taken out. Work was suspended over the winter so as not to disturb turtles and amphibians that hibernate around it. The rest of the berm wont be removed until the spring.

Pam Marchand, left, and Ken Booth of the Bristol County Water Authority and Wenley Ferguson of Save The Bay cross the upper dam on the Kickemuit River in Warren in 2019.

Flooding delayed removal of the lower dam

The lower dam took more time.

It historically marked the dividing line between the Kickemuits saltwater and freshwater portions, but the barrier was overtopped time and again by storm surges and higher-than-normal tides exacerbated by rising sea levels. The waters were so brackish that the upper river was full of blue crabs.

This flooding was part of the reason it took longer than expected to demolish the dam. A crew with Taunton, Massachusetts-based Lucianos Excavation started prep work in the river in late October.

The lower dam on the Kickemuit River, shown here in September 2022, was more of a challenge to remove than the upper dam because flooding from storm surges made worse by high tides kept excavators from the site.

First they removed 12,000 cubic yards of riverbed sediments contaminated with copper sulfate, a compound used to kill algae that clogged the stagnant waters above the dam. The plan was to take out the barrier itself by mid-December.

But in order to get their equipment on site, the workers had to de-water the channel. That proved to be a challenge. First, there were the incoming tidal waters that were so high they poured over the super-sacks of sand piled up to block off the dam.

It was like a waterfall, Ferguson said.

And then there was the series of heavy downpours over the last month that brought runoff washing in from the watershed above the dam.

It wasnt until early last week that the water had drained enough that an excavator could start tearing into the structure. By Friday, not much of the dam was left.

Dam construction at Kickemuit Bridge on Child Street in Warren

The project also aims to reduce flooding

All told, it cost about $5 million to take out the dams. The work was funded by the state Department of Environmental Management, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Restore Americas Estuaries and others.

Climate change was one factor in the efforts. The infrastructure along the Kickemuit was seen as vulnerable to extreme storms and surges. By removing the structures, the Water Authority is opening up more areas to hold floodwaters.

Engineering studies project that demolishing the two dams would reduce the frequency of flooding above the lower dam. While flooding could go up slightly in places in some scenarios, it would go down during a 100-year storm, the baseline event used to measure flood risk.

This is a poster-child climate-resilience project, said Stephen Coutu, executive director of the water authority.

While some neighbors objected to the dam removals, raising concerns that saltwater could contaminate their wells, studies commissioned by the water authority found that wells wouldn't be affected.

The Kickemuit River, dotted with sailboats, flows south and empties into Mount Hope Bay. [John Kostrzewa/Special to the Providence Journal, file]

Potential habitat for oysters and diamondback terrapins

What the river will look like over time is still a bit of a mystery. Ferguson expects marsh grasses and other plants to grow along the riverbanks and fill in the area around the channel.

As for the waters in the river, they will undoubtedly be healthier than in the past, when they were plagued by high nutrient levels that fueled algae growth and low oxygen levels.

Its unlikely river herring will spawn in the Kickemuit, but its waters could become habitat for wild oysters, diamondback terrapins and all sorts of shorebirds, according to backers of the project.

When you restore that true estuarine geography, youre supporting all these species that could make it home, said Thomas Ardito, director of the Southeast New England Watershed Grants Program at Restore Americas Estuaries.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Kickemuit River dams taken out to restore river, reduce flooding
Repairs to the Apple Vision Pro will be expensive.

Without the company's AppleCare+ insurance policy, fixes can cost up to $2,399.

AppleCare+ coverage for the device costs $499, but any repairs will still cost an extra $299.

Apple Vision Pro repairs could get pricey.

The $3,499 mixed reality headset is already one of the most expensive on the market, but Vision Pro owners could be left paying up to thousands of dollars more if they choose to forego AppleCare+ coverage and accidentally damage the device.

Ahead of the product's February 2 release, Apple's website says that without the company's AppleCare+ insurance policy, cracks to the Vision Pro's glass could cost an estimated $799 and damages to any other part of the headset could cost $2,399.

Apple Vision Pro repairs could get expensive without an insurance policy. Apple

Even with the AppleCare+ policy  which costs $499 for two years of coverage or $24.99 per month  the repairs would cost about $299, according to Apple. In other words, Vision Pro owners could end up shelling out $798 to fix the glass with the price of the $499 insurance plan included  meaning they'd only save $1 by using the plan for damaged glass.

But they'd save a lot more money with AppleCare+ if they accidentally damaged another part of the device, which could result in a whopping $2,399 repair cost. Either way, you'll be paying hundreds of dollars if you damage the headset, so buyers should be careful not to drop it.

A spokesperson for Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment ahead of publication.

Accidental damage or degradation to the headset's battery through normal wear and tear isn't covered by Apple's one-year warranty. AppleCare+ offers "unlimited Service Events" while the two-year plan is active and covers "accidental damage from handling resulting from an unexpected and unintentional external event (e.g., drops and damages caused by liquid contact from spills)." The company said it will then decide whether to repair the headset using new or refurbished parts or whether to replace it entirely with a brand new or refurbished headset.

Apple fans appear to be eager for the Vision Pro's release. After preorders for the device kicked off on Friday, estimated deliveries for the device had already backed up a month.

Apple CEO Tim Cook first unveiled the headset last summer. It's the tech giant's first major new product category since the Apple Watch hit stores in 2015.

Read the original article on Business Insider
While it may sound like part of the Mandalorian creed, experts at ITER claim The Way here on Earth is headed to an unimaginable goal: everlasting energy.

Experts at ITER, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (and also Latin for the way, per the agency) are working to harness fusion reactions, the same energy source that powers the sun, according to the projects website.

If successful, the experts in southern France could provide a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels and nuclear fission with arguably the most complex machine ever designed, ITERs communications lead Laban Coblentz told Euronews Next.

Nuclear energy is far from new science, and while there have been well-reported disasters, the technology is stable with the right personnel oversight and protection from natural disasters like earthquakes. Fission is used to power the 436 nuclear reactors around the world and requires slamming neutrons into larger atoms to create energy, splitting them into smaller particles. The process does not contribute significant greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, but it does produce radioactive waste.

Fusion, on the other hand, forms a heavier atom when two smaller particles slam together. The result is far more energy than fission, and without the radioactive waste, all per the United States Department of Energy.

The ITER team wants to prove that the process can be industrialized. They have been at work on the project since at least 2005. Testing includes the largest magnetic confinement chamber on the planet, which the researchers call a tokamak.

When complete, the chamber will weigh more than 25,000 tons, withstanding temperatures of up to 302 million degrees Fahrenheit. It creates power by using some of the hot particles to heat water, which would power a turbine via steam, all per Euronews.

The process requires unfathomable heat. For reference, USA Today reports that our 4.5 billion-year-old sun is 27 million degrees Fahrenheit at its core.

You try to take something up to 150 million degrees [Celsius]. You try to make it the scale that is needed and so forth. Its just a difficult thing to do, Coblentz told Euronews.

The project hasnt been without setbacks. The cost was originally budgeted at about $5.5 billion. But Euronews reports that its now nearly $22 billion. To stay on schedule, Coblentz told the online news agency that the experts plan to skip first plasma  a testing milestone  to get to fusion power initially in 2035.

Well make sure that that testing gets done in another way so that we can stick as much as possible to that date, he said.

He added that the complex nature of the project is a challenge, often because it is groundbreaking research.

Simply due to the complexity and the multitude of first-of-a-kind materials, first-of-a-kind components in a first-of-a-kind machine, he said to Euronews.

This isnt the only team working on novel nuclear projects. American icon Westinghouse is developing a small fission reactor set to go online in 2029. Its unique because its portable and can power remote locations for about eight years without water, reducing upward of 55,000 tons of air pollution annually, according to the company.

ITERs team is looking sunward for inspiration. And instead of waiting for the sunbeams to fall to our solar panels, they want to harness the source.

With planetwide overheating ravaging the world, the team is also feeling the heat.

The longer that we wait for fusion to arrive, the more we need it, Coblentz said in the Euronews report. So the smart money is: get it here as fast as possible.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet.
Jasper Kenzo Sundeen's reporting for the Yakima Herald-Republic is possible with support from Report for America and community members through the Yakima Valley Community Fund. For information on republishing, email news@yakimaherald.com.
Santiago Ochoa's reporting for the Yakima Herald-Republic is possible with support from Report for America and community members through the Yakima Valley Community Fund. For information on republishing, email news@yakimaherald.com.
Best known for his mid-2000s portraits of musicians, Copenhagen-based photographer Sren Solkr has turned his lens from stars to starlings. The sweeping photo series is on view at the National Nordic Museum. (Courtesy of Sren Solkr)
KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 21:30 | All, Japan

Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, is set to work at the Japanese Red Cross Society from April after graduating from university, the Imperial Household Agency said Monday.

While planning to continue engaging in her official duties as an imperial member, the 22-year-old princess has been hoping to be employed by the society, which she said she has "always had an interest in."

The society has close ties with the imperial family, with empresses serving as honorary presidents.

"I am happy to become engaged in works of the Japanese Red Cross Society," the princess said in a statement released by the agency, adding, "At the same time, I feel determined."

"By working hard with the awareness that I have become a member of society, I hope to be of help to the people and society even a little," she also said.

The princess will work as a contract employee and commute to its headquarters in Tokyo's Minato Ward, the agency said. Details of her envisioned work is undecided.

Her parents have expressed hope their daughter will continue to work hard and grow as a member of society, according to the agency.

Princess Aiko is currently a fourth-year student at the Department of Japanese Language and Literature at Gakushuin University's Faculty of Letters.

She submitted in December a graduation thesis themed on Waka poems, Japan's classic form of poetry, during the medieval era.

In October, the princess visited the Japanese Red Cross Society with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to observe an exhibition on the society's relief activities following the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake that rocked Tokyo and surrounding prefectures.

The princess accompanied her parents as she wanted to deepen her understanding of the organization, the agency said.

The society said in a statement that it wants "to thoroughly make preparations so that (the princess) can work at ease."

Related coverage:

Japan's emperor pens poem to reflect on warm welcome during visits

Japan emperor hopes for compassion in 2024 amid wars, disasters

Japan's former Emperor Akihito turns 90, continues to reflect on war
USR depune motiune simpla impotriva ministrului Agriculturii: Odele pentru Ceausescu nu salveaza agricultura

USR depune, luni, motiune simpla impotriva ministrului PSD al Agriculturii, Florin Barbu. Trebuie sa plece din functia de ministru, sa vina cineva mai priceput si mai putin [citeste mai departe]
Vremuri de dieta. Preturile la cacao s-au dublat

Sunt vremuri de dieta! Cotatiile futures la cacao s-au dublat in mai putin de trei luni, ceea ce va majora costurile dulciurilor pentru consumatori si ii va trimite pe producatorii de ciocolata sa caute materie prima, transmite Bloomberg . Cel mai tranzactionat contract la cacao la Bursa de la New York [citeste mai departe]
KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 20:29 | All, Japan

A reform panel of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party will propose introducing a system enabling the party to request a faction to disband if found violating the political funds control law, sources close to the matter said Monday.

In its interim report, expected to be released later this week, the panel will also recommend that the party toughen its penalties on lawmakers in the event of arrest or indictment for violating the same law, according to the sources.

Under the new system, offenders of the law would face party punishment even when their accountants are arrested or indicted, the sources added, as a political funds scandal has rocked the LDP, which has been in power for most of the period since 1955.

The proposals come after some factions within the LDP, including the largest one formerly headed by the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and a group that Prime Minister Fumio Kishida led until December, decided last week to dissolve over the scandal.

The LDP has come under intense scrutiny over the fundraising scandal, with allegations that some factions failed to report revenue from fundraising parties over many years. Public outrage has led to a significant decline in approval ratings for Kishida's Cabinet.

Earlier this month, Kishida, who quit his group in response to the slush funds scandal, launched the internal reform panel to establish rules to enhance the transparency of funds raised by the LDP factions, saying the public views them with "skeptical eyes."

On Friday, prosecutors indicted a number of accountants and lawmakers from some LDP factions on suspicion of failing to report political funds. However, they did not indict the executives of the groups due to a lack of evidence, despite mounting criticism over the scandal.

House of Representatives member Yaichi Tanigawa, indicted for violating the political funds control law, offered to resign as a lawmaker on Monday, apologizing for benefiting from the slush funds.

Tanigawa, a member of the Abe faction, failed to declare in political funds reports about 43 million yen ($290,000) he had received from the group for five years through 2022. The majority of members of the Abe faction are alleged to have obtained slush fund money.

At a panel meeting on Monday, Kishida said, "It is of utmost importance that each faction and lawmaker show integrity and fulfill their accountability," as LDP members have remained divided over whether to maintain or disband its groups.

Former Prime Minister Taro Aso appears likely to defy pressure to dissolve his faction, while LDP Secretary General Toshimitsu Motegi said his group will discuss whether it will disband after the interim report is unveiled.

The interim report, meanwhile, is calling for the prohibition of fundraising parties by LDP groups while seeking the digitization of political funding reports, the sources said.

Related coverage:

Aso to keep faction as Japan ruling party grilled over funds scandal

Prosecutors indict several LDP faction members over funds scandal

Biggest faction in Japan's ruling party decides to disband
A left-wing columnist agrees with the European Parliament in its criticism of the European Commission, while a pro-government commentator describes the repeated moves by the EP against the Hungarian government as a despicable soap opera.

The European Parliament accused Hungary of violating European core values and urged the Commission to find ways to strip Hungary of its voting rights within the Union. The resolution also threatened that the Parliament might take the Commission to court in case it releases further funds destined to Hungary but withheld on the basis of rule-of-law concerns.



In Nepszava, Miklos Hargitai writes that instead of being a continental leader within the European Union, Prime Minister Orban has become the kind of mythical creature used to scare children.



A large majority of MEPs agreed to condemn him, which proves to Hargitay that they expect European voters to agree with them, otherwise, they wouldnt have passed such a resolution just six months before the European Parliamentary elections. He also agrees with the resolution in judging the European Commission as lenient beyond measure towards the Hungarian government.



In Magyar Nemzet, on the other hand, Tamas Pilhal describes the debate preceding the vote in the European Parliament as a voodoo session where obsessed tribesmen insert pins into an effigy representing their enemy.



He also remarks that resolutions condemning Hungary are regular practice within the European Parliament.



He dismisses that series of scenes as a despicable soap opera. He believes that what the European Parliament is really about is to persuade Hungary to introduce trans toilets and compulsory LGBTQ tales in kindergartens, as well as supporting billions to be sent to Ukraine.



(In his biweekly Friday morning radio interview, Prime Minister Orban said keeping Hungary free of mass illegal immigration and keeping LGBT propaganda away from its children is worth more than any amount of money.)



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Based on the primary demand and supply indicators, the capital's new housing market shrank by half last year, according to OTP Jelzalogbank's latest Budapest New Home Value Map, writes profitline.hu.

In the second half of 2023, the plunge in the capital's new housing market that started at the end of 2022 and had become apparent in the first six months of last year continued.



Due to the generally deteriorating conditions, after 1,570 apartments built in buildings of two or more apartments in the first half of the year, only 1,390 were sold from July to December, the fewest since the first half of 2014.



"The annual sale of 2,960 units is a drop of around 50% compared to 2022 and is also the lowest volume in the past nine years," says David Valko, senior analyst at OTP Jelzalogbank.





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Gov. Jim Pillen announced a plan during his annual State of the State address on Thursday to streamline the state's public higher education system.

The One Nebraska initiative, as Pillen referred to it during his 40-minute speech before the Legislature, "will eliminate needless duplication and inefficient competition between state-supported schools."

At a press conference immediately after his speech, Pillen said the plan, which includes the University of Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System and the state's six community colleges, would eliminate silos along the way.

But the governor and former member of the NU Board of Regents did not get into specifics about how the One Nebraska initiative would be implemented.

"I don't care if it's K-12 or higher education, we have to be focused on the kids and the right fit for kids," he said. "It's absurd that we have state-funded higher education competing against one another.

"We want to work together and focus on the best outcome," Pillen added.

Now in his second year as governor, Pillen said he wanted the state's postsecondary institutions to focus less on growing enrollment and more on improving graduation rates.

"That's what workforce development is," he said. "Businesses in Nebraska don't care about what the heck their enrollment is, they care about graduates. They care about skillset development so they can grow businesses and grow the economy."

Pillen said he planned to speak more to higher education leaders to ensure they weren't duplicating efforts, and to tear down silos.

"I'm going to work my tail off to influence so we utilize our resources in the most efficient and effective way," he said.

Higher education leaders said they have had initial conversations about One Nebraska  a term Pillen referred to often during his campaign for governor  but have not been provided with a plan for how it will be carried out.

"We don't have a lot of details on the One Nebraska effort yet, but obviously we welcome the conversation with the governor and state colleges and other higher education partners," said NU Interim President Chris Kabourek.

The outline of the plan aligns with much of what NU is already doing, Kabourek added, as it seeks to reshape itself for the future and compete for the best and brightest students in the state.

Kabourek also said he believes NU will continue to be a place that helps meet the state's workforce needs as well as a university system that allows students to learn, grow and "discover their passions."

"I don't think this has to be a zero-sum game," he said. "I think we can do both."

Chancellor Paul Turman of the state college system said the campuses in Peru, Wayne and Chadron were already focused on increasing the degree completion rate to 70% statewide.

Degree completion has risen at the state colleges 2.7% over the last four years, Turman said.

"I appreciate that Gov. Pillen recognizes the vital role the state colleges, community colleges, and university play in continuing to move Nebraska forward, and we look forward to collaborating with him and our higher-education counterparts to address the workforce needs of Nebraska," he said.

Photos and video: Gov. Jim Pillen's State of the State
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has introduced the all-new NX500 adventure touring motorcycle in the country. The Honda NX500 was launched at an ex-showroom price of Rs 5.90 lakh. The Honda NX500 comes to our market via the CBU route. The NX500 will lock horns with the likes of Kawasaki Versys 650, Triumph Tiger Sport 650 and more. The NX500 will be retailed only though the premium BigWing outlets. Well, if you are considering buying this motorcycle, here are the top 5 things about it.

Honda NX500: Touring-Friendly Design

Directed by the design theme of Daily Crossover, wherever it goes  city block, winding road, highway or gravel trail  the NX500 looks the part, wearing a new style that has an amalgamation of compact adventure-style usability with an imposing silhouette. The motorcycles new all-LED headlight and tail lamp are compactly designed to contribute to its imposing yet nimble impression.

Honda NX500: Tech & Features

The NX500 gets a 5-inch full colour TFT screen that uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. It is also customizable, and the rider can select a display style between Bar, Circle & Simple along with a background colour from White, Black & Auto. The NX500 offers IOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync along with a backlit 4-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar that allows on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option for the rider to make calls or listen to music (via a Bluetooth headset). It also gets an emergency stop signal feature that communicates sudden braking to the vehicles behind by flashing turn signals at high speed.

Honda NX500: Performance

Powering the motorcycle is a 471cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC engine with a parallel twin-cylinder layout that offers 35kW power at 8,600rpm and 43Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm, paired with a slick-changing 6-speed gearbox. It further comes equipped with slipper clutch and Honda Selectable Torque Control System.

Honda NX500: Suspension, Brakes &Tyres:

Underpinned by an steel diamond-tube mainframe, the NX500 uses a 19-inch front rim and a 17-inch rear rim, shod with 110-section and 160-section tyres. For suspension duties, it uses a 41 mm USD forks on the front and a monoshock at the rear with 5-step preload adjustability. The brake rotor on the front is 296 mm while on the rear, theres a 240 mm rotor in use.

Honda NX500: Colours & Price

The All-New Honda NX500 is priced at Rs. 5,90,000 (ex-showroom New Delhi). It will be available in three colour schemes  Grand Prix Red, Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic and Pearl Horizon White. Bookings are now open at HMSIs premium BigWing dealerships across India. Deliveries will begin from February 2024 onwards.
Chief Minister Yogi's vision to position Uttar Pradesh as the hub of the country's air connectivity gained significant momentum on Friday as Noida International Airport (NIA) announced its strategic partnership with Akasa Air. Under this agreement, Akasa Air will deploy aircraft at Noida International Airport to meet the escalating demand for air travel in the region, operating both domestic and international flights, read an official statement.

Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of Noida International Airport, expressed excitement about welcoming Akasa Air, emphasizing the partnership's role in strengthening air connectivity in the Delhi NCR region and Western Uttar Pradesh.

He said, "We are excited to welcome Akasa Air as our airline partner, marking a significant step forward as we progress towards airport opening. This partnership highlights our commitment to strengthen air connectivity in the Delhi NCR region and Western Uttar Pradesh. Akasa Air is one of the fastest-growing airlines in the country, and we are thrilled to have them join us on our mission to establish a comprehensive air network, connecting major metros as well as Tier 2 and 3 cities across the country."

Also Read - Air India Reveals New Amenities For Premium Economy, Business, First Class Guests

Vinay Dube, the Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, highlighted Noida International Airport as an example of the government's focus on developing airline infrastructure, foreseeing the nation becoming an international aviation hub.

This collaboration will strengthen connectivity in Uttar Pradesh and provide travelers across the country with a seamless travel experience.

It is noteworthy that the first phase of Noida International Airport with one runway and one terminal, will have the capacity to handle the traffic of 12 million passengers annually. After the completion of the fourth phase, the airport will have the capacity to handle 70 million passengers per year. (ANI)
New Delhi: Spiritual guru Morari Bapu has made the largest donation for the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple which is also being funded by donations from his followers.

As per the details available on the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust website, Bapu contributed Rs 11.3 crore to help build the Ram Temple. His supporters in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom also contributed individually, totaling Rs 8 crore.

The Ram Temple project is said to have received donations totaling more than Rs 5,500 crore so far. Bapu's name comes up top on the list of beneficiaries for his contribution of Rs 11.3 crore towards the building of the temple, a cause that is dear to his heart. In a statement, Bapu said that they had already given the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust Rs 11.3 crore. When he performs Katha in February of this year, the remaining funds that were collected from foreign nations will be given to the Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Trust. Thus, the entire donation amount is Rs 18.6 crore.

"The Central Government has notified "SHRI RAM JANMABHOOMI TEERTH KSHETRA"(PAN:AAZTS6197B)to be place of historic importance and a place of public worship of renown for the purposes of the said section from the year F.Y.2020-2021,vide(CBDT NotificationNo.24/2020/F.No.176/8/2017/ITA-1). 50 percent of Voluntary Contribution, for the purpose of renovation/repair of Mandir,to Shri Ram Janambhoomi Teerth Kshetra is eligible for deduction under sec 80G(2)(b),subject to other conditions mentioned under section 8OG of the Income Tax Act,1961.vide (CBDT Notification No.24/2020/F.No.176/8/2017/ITA-1)," says the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust website.

Cash donation in excess of Rs.2,000 are not allowed as deduction, the website adds.

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir has been built in the customary Nagara style. It is supported by 392 pillars and 44 doors, and measures 380 feet long (east-west), 250 feet wide, and 161 feet high. The temple's walls and pillars are adorned with finely carved representations of Hindu gods and goddesses. The idol of Shri Ramlalla, Bhagwan Shri Ram, in his childhood form, is placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor.

Born in 1946 in Gujarat, Morari Bapu is a proponent of the Ramayana. For over 60 years, the scholar has been highlighting the fundamental principles of Sanatana Dharma through the recitation of the Ram Katha.

Bapu is well known for his persistent calls for a diplomatic settlement to the Ayodhya conflict and his unwavering faith in the eventual building of a Ram Temple. He maintains that Lord Ram does not belong to any particular nation or sect. He belongs to the whole world.

Following Ram Lalla's consecration, Bapu will also perform a Katha in Ayodhya from February 24 to March 3.
As the eagerly awaited day of Ram Lalla's "Pran Pratishtha" ceremony approaches, states across India are commemorating the event by announcing school closures. This decision allows students and families to actively participate in the historic festivities surrounding the highly anticipated consecration ceremony for the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. A multitude of distinguished guests is expected to attend this momentous occasion. With the aim of providing children the opportunity to witness the inauguration of the Ram Mandir on January 22, several states have chosen to observe school holidays in anticipation of this significant event.

Ram Mandir Inaugration: Complete Holiday

Uttar Pradesh: Leading the charge, Uttar Pradesh declared a full public holiday, ensuring all schools, both government and private, remain closed. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called for widespread celebrations, with the state aiming to make the day a "second Diwali."

Madhya Pradesh: Joining UP, Madhya Pradesh also announced a full holiday for all schools, allowing students and teachers to immerse themselves in the momentous occasion.

Chhattisgarh: In a similar spirit, Chhattisgarh announced a complete closure of all government and non-government schools and colleges, emphasizing the significance of the day.

Haryana: Following suit, Haryana declared a full holiday for schools, enabling families to participate in the celebrations and witness this historic moment.

Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Half-Day

Assam: Observing a half-holiday, all government offices and educational institutions in Assam will remain closed until 2:30 pm, allowing some time for festivities before resuming regular schedules.

Rajasthan: Rajasthan took a similar approach, declaring a half-day closure for schools, providing space for students and families to celebrate while minimizing disruption to academic activities.

Tripura: Joining the half-day closure list, Tripura announced a similar schedule for all educational institutions, facilitating participation in the ceremony while ensuring a smooth continuation of classes.

Several states, including Delhi and Maharashtra, haven't officially declared holidays but anticipate reduced attendance as families may choose to observe the ceremony.

While schools in other states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu remain open, the atmosphere is likely to be celebratory, with many students expected to wear traditional attire or participate in special events within the institutes.
By Taiga Iyama, KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 13:54 | All, Japan, Feature

Almost four decades ago, a phantom creature of ancient Japanese folklore captured the public imagination in a craze that would rival sightings of Scotland's Loch Ness Monster.

It began with a remote western village appealing to the rest of the country for volunteers to join a hunt for a snake-like being called the "tsuchinoko." A feverish but short-lived boom followed with offers of cash prizes that appeared to reflect the zeitgeist of the bubble economy, then at its peak.

Now, the village of Shimokitayama in Nara Prefecture where the hunt started is using the tsuchinoko legend once again to promote regional revitalization as it struggles to cope with depopulation and economic lethargy.

The tsuchinoko is described as having a body of between 30 and 80 centimeters in length, similar to that of a snake, with a girth around its middle as large as a beer bottle. The creatures are said to have the ability to jump as high as 2 meters.

According to legend, some have the ability to speak, but tend to lie. They are also said to be quite fond of Japanese sake. Extremely quick and agile with fangs that produce a lethal venom, they are known to swallow their own tails so that they can roll like a wheel to get around.

In the late 1980s, there were reports of sightings in Shimokitayama, and a "Tsuchinoko Expedition" was launched in 1988 by Kazuo Nozaki, 77, then a member of the village council, with the aim of capturing some of the mischievous creatures.

The village offered a reward of 1 million yen ($7,800 at the time) for the live capture of a tsuchinoko, and even 300,000 yen for the sloughed off skin of the animal. The bounty aroused interest, and more than 200 people from around the country joined the expedition.

Television and weekly magazines jostled for coverage, with reporters pouring in daily to capture images of the hunt.

Given the abundance of alleged tsuchinoko sightings across Japan, the fervor led similar bounty-carrying hunting crazes to flourish in several other towns and villages, including Higashishirakawa, Gifu Prefecture; Susami, Wakayama Prefecture; and Joge (currently Fuchu), Hiroshima Prefecture, among other places.

However, Shimokitayama's expedition ended in 1990 when the economic bubble showed signs of collapsing. "No matter how hard we looked, we couldn't even find a tail," said Nozaki.

With the number of residents halving to about 800 today due to depopulation, the village once again turned its attention to the tsuchinoko legend, hoping to rekindle some of the excitement around the legend that captivated people during those heady times.

As part of the initial step, Shimokitayama Tsuchinoko Park was established in March 2023 to evoke memories of the legend, which had all but become a thing of the past for local residents.

The character Tsuchinoko-kun was created as "a fairy transported through time from 35 years ago" to promote the local "jabara" citrus fruit (similar to yuzu) and other products, including T-shirts and key holders featuring its design.

With the popularity now spreading outside the village, visitors to Tsuchinoko Park can now see literature about the creature that Nozaki has collected as well as photos from the time of the craze.

Kohei Michishita, 43, the executive director of the park, used to operate an apparel company in Tokyo but moved to the village in 2022 to get the project under way.

While working on regional promotion, Michishita felt that "no matter how attractive a village is, it is difficult to convey it to a third party in a way that's easy to understand. Tsuchinoko is a powerful draw," he said.

As a child in the 1980s, Michishita saw the tsuchinoko buzz generated on TV. He does not seem to care whether the creature really exists -- or can even be caught.

"The trial and error for the community is the same now as it has been in the past," he said. "I would like to energize the village by cherishing the ideas of Mr. Nozaki and his colleagues."

Nozaki, for his part, is glad villagers are steadfastly holding on to tradition. "More and more villagers do not know the enthusiasm of those days. I am grateful that they are carrying on the spirit of the past," he said.

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AYODHYA: Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das on Monday said that the public darshan of Sgri Ram Lalla will begin from Tuesday after the conclusion of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya. ''The darshan of Ram Lalla will begin from tomorrow,"Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das said after the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony.

Revised Temple Timings

The timings for visiting the Ram Temple have been altered. Starting from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, devotees can now seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. Additionally, the temple will remain closed from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. According to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust, Ram Lalla will be offered fruit and milk every hour. The temple will open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Colourful Attire For Ram Lalla

Ram Lalla will now don different coloured attire on specific days: white on Mondays, red on Tuesdays, green on Wednesdays, yellow on Thursdays, light yellow or cream on Fridays, blue on Saturdays, and pink on Sundays. The new attire has been crafted by skilled artisans associated with the Heritage and Handloom Revival Charitable Trust in Pune, involving 10 to 15 lakh artisans.

Temple Rituals And Schedule

After the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony concludes on January 23, the temple will remain closed during the day for cleaning, worship, and adornment of the sanctum sanctorum. Around 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the idols and 'Shri Yantra' will be awakened with mantras, followed by the 'Mangala Aarti.' Subsequently, there will be the consecration ceremony, adorned with rituals and offerings. The 'Shringar Aarti' will follow, concluding around 5:00 PM.

Morning darshan will begin at 8:00 AM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Evening darshan will continue from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, interrupted only by the evening 'Sandhya Aarti' at 7:00 PM.

PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the 'aarti' of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed 'parikrama' of the deity and did 'dandvat pranam'. He also took blessings from 'sadhus'.

The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

Ram Lalla Won't Stay In A Tent Now: PM Modi

PM Modi congratulated people on the Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya temple and said Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. "Many congratulations to all the people of the country for this auspicious occasion," PM Modi said. He said the grand temple has been constructed after centuries of sacrifice. "After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come..." he said. "Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple..." the Prime Minister added.

Distinguished Dignitaries Witness Grand Ceremony

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting 'Jai Sri Ram' along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple's construction.

Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

The Mandir's foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture.
AYODHYA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the consecration of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple in the holy city of Ayodhya is an ''extraordinary and emotional moment." Addressing a vast gathering of devotees, PM Modi said, "I have firm belief and immense faith that today, the devotees of Prabhu Ram are completely absorbed in this historic moment...the devotees of Prabhu Ram, in every corner of the country and the world, are deeply feeling this...This moment is divine, this moment is the holiest of all..."

PM Modi also said that Lord Ram has arrived today after the "wait, patience and sacrifices of centuries". Calling it a "beginning of a new era", PM Narendra Modi said that "Ram Lalla won't live in a tent anymore". Speaking after the magnificent consecration ceremony, PM Modi said "January 22, 2024, is not just a date on a calendar, it is the dawn of a new era".

Addressing the huge gathering, PM Modi said that people will remember this date and moment even after thousands of years. "This moment, this environment, this time is a blessing from Lord Ram to us," he told the gathering. "It's such a blessing from Lord Ram that we are alive today to witness such an event," he said.

PM Modi also told the gathering that he tried to visit places during his 11-day religious exercise where Lord Ram had set foot. "I got the opportunity to travel from Sagar to Saryu. From Sagar to Saryu, the same festive spirit of Ram's name is visible everywhere..."

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. pic.twitter.com/d2HvbMnmV5  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2024

PM Modi also apologised to Lord Ram, saying, ''Something was lacking in our love and penance due to which this work (construction of Ram temple) was not done for so many years. However, that gap has been bridged today and I am confident that Lord Ram will forgive us."

PM Modi also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Indian judiciary for its positive ruling in the Ram Temple case which enabled the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya after decades of legal battle. "...The legal battle over the existence of Lord Ram went on for decades. I would like to express my gratitude to the judiciary of India for doing justice..." PM Modi said.

Continuing his speech, PM Modi said, "We have to now lay the foundation of India of the next 1,000 years... We take a pledge to build a capable, grand, divine India from this moment." PM Narendra Modi told the gathering that the ''Ram temple's construction is the reflection of Indian society's maturity'' and that it's an "occasion of not merely triumph but humility too".

PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the 'aarti' of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed 'parikrama' of the deity and did 'dandvat pranam'. He also took blessings from 'sadhus'.

The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

Presence of Distinguished Dignitaries

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting 'Jai Sri Ram' along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple's construction.

Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

Rich Features Of The Mandir Complex

The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

Innovative Construction Method

The Mandir's foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

Modern Amenities In Traditional Ambiance

The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture.
New Delhi: The BJP has approached the Supreme Court on an urgent basis to hear its plea against the alleged order by the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government that prevents the live telecast of Ram Lallas Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday at temples and other public places. The petition has been filed by Advocate G Balaji on behalf of Vinoj P Selvam, secretary of Tamil Nadu BJP. The plea stated, It is respectfully submitted that the State Government run by DMK political party has prohibited the live telecast of the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu.

The plea also stated, The government has also forbidden all kinds of poojas, Archana and Annadanam (poor feeding) bhajans on this auspicious occasion. Such arbitrary exercise of power by the State Government (through police officials) per se violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

The petitioner sought immediate judicial intervention in the matter and warned of a law and problem that may arise. The petitioner said, Unless there is immediate judicial intervention by this court there will be law and order problem and failure of constitutional machinery.

The petition further said, It is therefore most respectfully prayed that the writ petition be listed for hearing tonight itself before the chief justice court or any other court in the interest of justice. On Sunday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman claimed that the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government is instructing the State Police to not allow the live broadcast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhyas Ram temple on January 22.

Speaking to reporters in Chengalpattu, Nirmala Sitharaman said, The Tamil Nadu government is intimidating the police to not permit the live broadcast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. The Assistant Commissioner of Police is threatening to not broadcast even the program I attended in Kanchipuram.

She added, They said that the Ram temple ceremony should not be telecast in public places. They say that it should not be held in the temple either. They are saying that there will be a law and order problem, and beyond that, they are asking us to give the letter that we have not refused permission.

However, the state government has denied the Union Ministers allegations and slammed the spreading of false information. PK Sekar Babu, Tamil Nadu Minister of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments said that the accusations made by Sitharaman related to holding programmes in the name of Lord Ram are totally false.

He posted on X, Strongly condemn the spreading of false information in an attempt to divert peoples attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department hasnt imposed any restrictions on devotees freedom to offer food, conduct poojas in the name of Shri Ram, or provide prasad in Tamil Nadu temples.

He also said, It is unfortunate that people in office, like Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and others, are deliberately propagating this erroneous information.

Meanwhile, Nirmala Sitharaman responded to the remarks made by the Tamil Nadu minister and said, Minister Sekar Babu should read the comments under his social media post. Why did he not openly announce earlier that there is no ban on telecasting the Pran pratishtha ceremony of Ram temple and there is no ban on conducting special prayers?

Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai shared an image on X and alleged that the instructions in the image have been issued by the ADGP (Law and order) to hinder the celebration of the Pran Pratishtha across the state. He posted on X, DMK government has ministers who are inefficient, corrupt and a bunch of liars. Below are screenshots of instructions issued by ADGP L&O to his SPs directing them to hinder the celebration of the Pran Pratishtha across TN.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to the Bharatiya Janta Partys plea to live telecast the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration ceremonys live telecast at temples and other public places in Tamil Nadu. Earlier, the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government issued an order barring the live telecast of temple event. The BJP had moved the Supreme Court on an urgent basis to hear its plea against the alleged order by the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government that prevents the live telecast of Ram Lallas Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday at temples and other public places.

The petition has been filed by Advocate G Balaji on behalf of Vinoj P Selvam, secretary of Tamil Nadu BJP. The plea stated, It is respectfully submitted that the State Government run by DMK political party has banned the live telecast of the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu.

The plea also stated, The government has also banned all kinds of poojas, Archana and Annadanam (poor feeding) bhajans on this auspicious occasion. Such arbitrary exercise of power by the State Government (through police officials) per se violates fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

The petitioner sought immediate judicial intervention in the matter and warned of a law and problem that may arise. The petitioner said, Unless there is immediate judicial intervention by this court there will be law and order problem and failure of constitutional machinery.

The petition further said, It is therefore most respectfully prayed that the writ petition be listed for hearing tonight itself before the chief justice court or any other court in the interest of justice. On Sunday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman claimed that the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government is instructing the State Police to not allow the live broadcast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhyas Ram temple on January 22.

Sitharaman accuses DMK of intimidating police, DMK denies allegations

Speaking to reporters in Chengalpattu, Nirmala Sitharaman said, The Tamil Nadu government is intimidating the police to not permit the live broadcast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. The Assistant Commissioner of Police is threatening to not broadcast even the program I attended in Kanchipuram.

She added, They said that the Ram temple ceremony should not be telecast in public places. They say that it should not be held in the temple either. They are saying that there will be a law and order problem, and beyond that, they are asking us to give the letter that we have not refused permission. However, the state government has denied the Union Ministers allegations and slammed the spreading of false information.

PK Sekar Babu, Tamil Nadu Minister of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments said that the accusations made by Sitharaman related to holding programmes in the name of Lord Ram are totally false.

He posted on X, Strongly condemn the spreading of false information in an attempt to divert peoples attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department hasnt imposed any limitations on devotees freedom to offer food, conduct poojas in the name of Shri Ram, or provide prasad in Tamil Nadu temples.

He also said, It is unfortunate that people in office, like Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and others, are purposefully propagating this erroneous information.
New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for fuming at chants of Jai Shri Ram and slogans supporting Prime Minister Modi during the Assam leg of his ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and called the Wayanad MP entitled dynast. BJP National spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took to X and said that Rahul Gandhi arrogantly confronted the crowd.

Some people chanted Jai Shri Ram & Modi Modi during his yatra, so Rahul Gandhi arrogantly confronts them. Security personnel stopped him. Mohabbat ki dukaan or Ahankaar ki Dukaan. Shameful & atrocious behaviour by the entitled dynast! He even made kissing actions to the crowd !! he said on Monday.

A video of Rahul Gandhi showed him apparently losing his temper over chants of Jai Shri Ram and slogans supporting Prime Minister Modi during the Assam leg of his ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The incident happened when the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, was on its fourth day in the northeastern state.

Sharing the video, the head of the Bharatiya Janata Partys IT cell, Amit Malviya, said, Rahul Gandhi lost his cool after Jai Shri Ram and Modi Modi slogans were raised in his presence.

He wrote on X, If this is how rattled he is, how will he face the people of this country in the days ahead, after the anti-Hindu Congress rejected the invite to be part of the Pran Pratistha in Ayodhya?

Congress leaders defend Rahul Gandhi, hit out at BJP

In a reply to Malviya, Congress Social Media and Digital Platforms Chairperson Supriya Shrinate said that his party leader didnt lose his cool but went to meet the people who were sloganeering.

She said, You dimwit. Rahul Gandhi didnt lose his cool. But went to meet the people who were sloganeering  and the moment he went amidst them they ran away What he did takes courage. Something that you and your master wont ever understand. Now shut up and sit down.

You dimwit. Rahul Gandhi didnt lose his cool. But went to meet the people who were sloganeering  and the moment he went amidst them they ran away



What he did takes courage. Something that you and your master wont ever understand. Now shut up and sit down https://t.co/XtTp3IBKau January 21, 2024

Another Congress leader, Anand Sharma, criticised the BJP government in Assam and said that Chief Minister Sarma should respect the law and the Constitution.

He said while speaking to ANI on Sunday, No matter how much we condemn this, it is still less. In democracy, Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders have the right to take out a yatra and speak. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma should respect law and constitution. Congress is not scared of such threats and it wont have any effect on yatra. But, Congress wont tolerate it, this is not acceptable in democracy.
New Delhi: A tense situation erupted in Assams Haiboragaon on Monday after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was barred by authorities from visiting the Sri Sri Sankar Dev Satra temple in Bordua near here. Gandhi, along with other Congress leaders, was halted at Haiboragaon and not allowed to go further. The former Congress chief was planning to pay respects to the local deity before starting his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Monday.

Mahila Congress leaders then sat on a dharna to protest against the refusal of permission to Gandhi to visit the temple. The former Congress chief also joined the dharna. Authorities said Gandhi will be granted permission to visit the temple only at 3 PM.

VIDEO | "We live in a democratic country. But here, even the local MP Gaurav Gogoi is being stopped. This is injustice," says Congress leader @Jairam_Ramesh on Rahul Gandhi, leading the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, being stopped from visiting Assam's Batadrava Than, the birthplace of pic.twitter.com/evioOU5baU  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 22, 2024

Gandhi challenged the police on why he was being prevented from visiting the temple. Will PM Modi now decide who will visit a temple and when, Gandhi said. We do not want to create any problems, simply pray at the temple, Gandhi told the police authorities.

Heavy Security, Road Blockade Around Temple

Strict security arrangements, deployment of a huge police force and blockade of roads were in place around the Sri Sri Sankar Dev Satra temple. Except the local MP and MLA, no Congress leader was permitted to travel beyond Haiboragaon, around 20 km from the temple spot. Even the media team was not allowed to travel beyond Haiboragaon.

Congress Sewa Dal chief Lalji Desai said it was shameful that the prime minister and Assam chief minister were not allowing them to pray at the temple. This is atrocious. It is unfortunate that the prime minister will decide who will pray at what time in the country, he said.

Until the time the prime minister does pooja (in Ayodhya), no one is allowed to pray anywhere, Desai claimed. There is no loktantra (democracy) here and the government will decide when people will pray at temples, he said.
AYODHYA: Diwali is being celebrated across India with millions of Ram Lalla devotees lighting up earthen lamps (diyas) to celebrate the Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' in the holy city of Ayodhya on Monday. Fireworks also adorned the night sky over Ayodhya and many other cities to celebrate the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla amid full Vedic rituals.

#WATCH | Fireworks adorn the sky over Ayodhya to celebrate 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla pic.twitter.com/L1zVVNkHPu  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

In a radiant spectacle, Ayodhya's Saryu Ghat was illuminated with thousands of 'diyas' after the conclusion of the Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. Thousands of devotees also lit up earthen lamps in Ayodhya's famous Hanuman Garhi temple, ushering in widespread celebrations for the Ram temple 'Pran Pratishtha'.

#WATCH | Saryu ghat illuminated with hundreds of diyas after Ayodhya Ram temple 'Pran Pratishtha' pic.twitter.com/caYQx815MF  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Har Ki Pauri Aglow: Haridwar Celebrates Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha'

Echoing similar sentiments, Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri was also decorated with earthen lamps, mirroring the jubilation for Ayodhya's Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha'.

#WATCH | Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri to be lit up with earthen lamps to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' pic.twitter.com/72Zo6F87hX  ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2024

Nepal's Janakpur Celebrates 'Deepotsav' in Honour of Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha'

In Nepal's Janakpur, devotees of Ram Lalla joyously celebrated 'Deepotsav' to mark the auspicious occasion of Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha'.

Public Darshan Begins: Shri Ram Lalla To Grace Devotees

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Chief Priest Acharya Satyendra Das announced that the commencement of public darshan of Shri Ram Lalla will start from Tuesday after the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony.

Revised Temple Timings For Devotees

The timings for visiting the Ram Temple have been altered. Starting from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, devotees can now seek the blessings of Ram Lalla. Additionally, the temple will remain closed from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. According to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Trust, Ram Lalla will be offered fruit and milk every hour. The temple will open every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Colourful Attire For Ram Lalla

Ram Lalla will now don different coloured attire on specific days: white on Mondays, red on Tuesdays, green on Wednesdays, yellow on Thursdays, light yellow or cream on Fridays, blue on Saturdays, and pink on Sundays. The new attire has been crafted by skilled artisans associated with the Heritage and Handloom Revival Charitable Trust in Pune, involving 10 to 15 lakh artisans.

Temple Rituals And Schedule

After the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony concludes on January 23, the temple will remain closed during the day for cleaning, worship, and adornment of the sanctum sanctorum. Around 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the idols and 'Shri Yantra' will be awakened with mantras, followed by the 'Mangala Aarti.' Subsequently, there will be the consecration ceremony, adorned with rituals and offerings. The 'Shringar Aarti' will follow, concluding around 5:00 PM. Morning darshan will begin at 8:00 AM, with a break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Evening darshan will continue from 3:00 PM until 10:00 PM, interrupted only by the evening 'Sandhya Aarti' at 7:00 PM.

PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the 'aarti' of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed 'parikrama' of the deity and did 'dandvat pranam'. He also took blessings from 'sadhus'.

The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

Ram Lalla Won't Stay In A Tent Now: PM Modi

PM Modi congratulated people on the Pran Prathistha ceremony in Ayodhya temple and said Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. "Many congratulations to all the people of the country for this auspicious occasion," PM Modi said. He said the grand temple has been constructed after centuries of sacrifice. "After centuries of unprecedented patience, countless sacrifices, renunciations and penances, our Prabhu Ram has come..." he said. "Ram Lalla will not stay in a tent now. He will stay in the grand temple..." the Prime Minister added.

Distinguished Dignitaries Witness Grand Ceremony

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting 'Jai Sri Ram' along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple's construction.

Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

The Mandir's foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture. The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture.
AYODHYA: In a surprising move, Vikramaditya Singh, a prominent Congress leader and minister in the Himachal Pradesh government, went against his party's official stance on the Ram Temple inauguration. Despite top Congress leaders boycotting the event, Singh visited the holy city of Ayodhya to partake in the auspicious 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol on Monday.

A Lone Stand: Himachal Pradesh Declares Half-Day Amid Congress Resistance

Interestingly, Himachal Pradesh, the sole Congress-ruled state, took a distinctive step by declaring a half-day for all state government workers, showcasing a unique departure from the party's overall stance.

Vikramaditya Singh: The Rebel Congress Leader Who Became A 'State Guest' In UP

Vikramaditya Singh, the son of current Himachal Congress chief Pratibha Singh, made headlines as he reached Lucknow from Chandigarh on Sunday. Despite being a Congress leader, he was treated as a 'state guest' by the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government.

'Once-In-A-Lifetime' Opportunity: Singh On Ayodhya Visit

Earlier on January 8, Singh expressed that attending the Ayodhya ceremony was a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." This came amidst the Congress top brass deciding to stay away from the event, denouncing it as a 'BJP/RSS event.'

Congress Leaders Shun Ayodhya Invite

On January 10, senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury declined the invitation, citing the BJP's attempt to score political points with the ceremony. The Congress labelled the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony as an "RSS and BJP event," emphasizing their commitment to the 2019 Supreme Court judgment while respecting the sentiments of Lord Ram's devotees.

Vikramaditya Singh: Political Scion's Background And Journey

Vikramaditya Singh, born in 1989, represents the Shimla Rural constituency as an MLA. Hailing from a political family, he is the son of the late ex-CM Virbhadra Singh, and his mother, Pratibha Singh, currently serves as the MP from Mandi and is the state Congress chief.

A post-graduate in History from St Stephen's College, Delhi, Singh served as the chief of the state youth Congress from 2013 to 2017. With two consecutive victories in the elections of 2017 and 2023, he continues to make a mark in Himachal Pradesh politics.

PM Modi Leads Pran Pratishtha Rituals

The holy city of Ayodhya witnessed a moment of divine significance as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled at the Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the sacred Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday. In the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple, PM Modi conducted the rituals, creating an atmosphere infused with deep devotion. PM Modi performed the 'aarti' of the Ram Lalla idol at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. He also performed 'parikrama' of the deity and did 'dandvat pranam'. He also took blessings from 'sadhus'.

The childhood form of Lord Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed in the main sanctum sanctorum on the ground floor of the temple. The ceremony was marked by Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showering flower petals over the temple premises during the unveiling of the idol.

Presence Of Distinguished Dignitaries

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath graced the ceremony, chanting 'Jai Sri Ram' along with devotees. Over 8,000 guests attended the ceremony, representing various spiritual and religious sects, including tribal communities. Prime Minister Modi addressed the distinguished gathering and interacted with shramjeevis associated with the temple's construction.

Architectural Marvel Of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir, constructed in traditional Nagara style, stands magnificently with a length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet. It boasts 392 pillars, 44 doors, and intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.

The main entrance on the eastern side, accessed by ascending 32 stairs through Singh Dwar, leads to five Mandaps (Halls). Notable features include Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap, and Kirtan Mandap. The historic Well (Sita koop) and the restored ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv at Kuber Tila add to the cultural richness.

Innovative Construction Methods

The Mandir's foundation, crafted with a 14-meter-thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), gives it the appearance of artificial rock. The absence of iron and the use of traditional indigenous technology showcase the uniqueness of the construction. A 21-foot-high plinth of granite safeguards against ground moisture.

Modern Amenities In Traditional Ambiance

The Mandir complex boasts a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety, and an independent power station, seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional architecture.
New Delhi: After 500 years of exile, Lord Ram is finally returning to his home in Ayodhya on Monday. The auspicious occasion will be marked by the Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla, the consecration of his idol in the new temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and many other prominent guests and saints will grace the event with their presence.

CM Yogi has already reached Ayodhya to oversee the preparations, while PM Modi will arrive at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport at 10.25 am. He will then take a helicopter to Ayodhya helipad at 10.45 am and head straight to the Ram Janmabhoomi site. He will join the various events from 11 am to 12 noon, followed by the Pran Pratistha ceremony from 12.05 pm to 12.55 pm. After the program concludes at 1 pm, he will go to the venue where he will address the nation and the world along with other special guests. CM Yogi will also deliver his speech there.

Ayodhya Turns Into City Of Flowers And Lights

The city of Ayodhya is all decked up for the historic day with thousands of quintals of flowers. The air is filled with festive spirit and devotion in Avadhpuri, the capital of Suryavansh. Temples across the country, including Ayodhya Dham, are chanting Ram Sankirtan and Ram Charit Manas.

A divine glow can be seen from Janmabhoomi Path to Ram Path, Bhakti Path and Dharma Path in Ayodhya. Cultural events showcasing diverse music and dance forms from Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country are being held at various venues. Bhajans of Lord Ram echo everywhere.

The Ram Janmabhoomi site is adorned with different kinds of native and exotic flowers, while the Janmabhoomi Path, Ram Path, Dharam Path and Lata Chowk are also embellished with beautiful flowers. Stages have been set up for hosting cultural programmes. Ram Katha is being narrated by different religious leaders at different places and Ramlilas from different countries are also being performed.

The Veena installed at Lata Chowk has also been lit up with a stunning combination of lighting and flowers. There is no place in Ayodhya Dham that has not been illuminated with flowers or LED lighting. Besides, various highways leading to Ayodhya are also decorated with flowers and lights.

Different chapters related to the life story of Lord Shri Ram have been depicted through mural paintings and wall paintings across Ayodhya Dham. Saryu Aarti, cultural programmes and laser show are captivating the viewers in Ram Ki Paidi.

Deepotsav To Light Up One Million Lamps

Preparations have also been made for Deepotsav in the evening by lighting one million lamps in Ayodhya after sunset. Deepotsav will be celebrated all over the country and the world. PM Modi and CM Yogi have urged the countrymen to light 5 lamps after sunset.

Meanwhile, there will be 121 Acharyas who will coordinate, support and guide all the processes of the ritual of the ceremony. Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid of Varanasi will monitor, coordinate and guide all the processes and Laxmikant Dixit of Kashi will be the chief Acharya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries will be present on the occasion.

It is noteworthy that the process of Pran Pratishtha has already started from January 16. While the Prayaschit and Karmakuti puja was performed on January 16, the idol entered the premises on January 17. On January 18, Ram Lallas idol was installed in the sanctum sectorum of the grand new temple. Aushadhivas, Kesaradhivas, Ghritadhivas were organized on January 19, Dhanyadhivas on January 19, Sugardhivas, Fruitdhivas, Pushpadhivas on January 20 and Madhyadhivas and Shayadhivas on January 21.

More than 8,000 eminent people from different fields along with saints have been invited for the Pran Pratistha ceremony.

Acharyas, Saints From Diverse Traditions To Grace The Ceremony

The ceremony of Pran Pratistha of Ram Lalla will witness the presence of Acharyas from all the schools of Indian spirituality, religion, sect, method of worship, traditions, saints, Mahamandaleshwar, Mandaleshwar, Shrimahant, Mahant, Naga of more than 150 traditions, as well as leaders of more than 50 tribal, hilly, coastal and island traditions. This is the first time in the history of India that people from mountains, forests, coastal areas, islands and other regions are participating in such a function at one place.

The ceremony will also be attended by people from different traditions such as Shaiva, Vaishnav, Shakta, Ganapatya, Patya, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Dashnam Shankar, Ramanand, Ramanuj, Nimbarka, Madhav, Vishnu Nami, Ramsanehi, Ghisapanth, Garibdasi, Gaudiya, Kabirpanthi, Valmiki, Shankardev (Assam), Madhav Dev, and many respected traditions like ISKCON, Ramakrishna Mission, Chinmoy Mission, Bharat Sevashram Sangh, Gayatri Parivar, Anukul Chandra Thakur Tradition, Mahima Samaj of Odisha, Akali, Nirankari, Namdhari (Punjab), Radhasoami and Swaminarayan, Varkari, Veer Shaiva and others. After the completion of the Pran Pratistha in the sanctum sanctorum, the dignitaries will have the darshan of Ram Lalla.

Ayodhya Under Tight Security For Historic Event

For the Pran Pratistha programme of Ram Lalla, heavy police force has been deployed in Ayodhya. The city has been divided into two zones, Red and Yellow. Units of SPG, NSG Black Cat Commandos, CRPF Cobra, CISF, RAF, NDRF have been stationed across the city. Teams of UP Police are guarding every corner of the city. Snipers are also positioned on rooftops and important locations. Besides, Intelligence Bureau and RAW are also monitoring the activities.

More than 100 DSPs, about 325 inspectors and 800 sub-inspectors from various districts of the state have been posted in Dham, while 11,000 personnel of police and paramilitary forces have been deployed additionally. Three DIGs, 17 SPs, 40 ASPs, 82 DSPs, 90 Inspectors along with more than a 1000 constables and 4 company PACs have been assigned for VIP security.

As many as 250 police guides are also available to provide information about tourist places to the devotees. Yogi government is also using ITMS, CCTV, control room and public CCTV to make the security of the Dham foolproof. The anti drone system based on AI technology is in fully active mode.

City Ready To Host Thousands Of Guests, Devotees

Parking arrangements have been made at 51 places for 23,000 vehicles of guests. Parking spots have been uploaded on Google Map to facilitate access. Parking spaces have also been reserved for VVIPs, VIPs and other guests. These parking lots have been equipped with wireless and PA systems.

The Health department has also made elaborate arrangements to deal with medical emergencies. CMO Dr. Sanjay Jain said that the department has formed first aid units in collaboration with Ram Mandir Teerth Kshetra Trust at 16 places in the event area. Each unit consists of a doctor, a pharmacist and a ward boy. Apart from these, two hospitals with a capacity of 10 and 20 beds have also been built. Apart from this, arrangements for 40 ambulances have also been made.

Besides, 190 beds have been reserved for emergency situations in Medical College, Shri Ram Hospital Ayodhya, District Hospital Ayodhya, Women District Hospital and Kumarganj Hospital.
New Delhi: Today is the day when Shri Ram Lalla will be consecrated in the temple at Ayodhya. The idol of Ram Lalla, which is placed in the innermost chamber of the temple, is a masterpiece of art and devotion. It is sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, a talented artist from Mysuru. The idol is a magnificent sight to behold, as it depicts Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus made of the same stone. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the chief guest of the ceremony, and he will perform the rituals to mark the Pran Pratishtha, the act of infusing life into the deity. A team of priests, headed by Lakshmikant Dixit, will conduct the main rituals with utmost reverence and care.

The Supreme Court, in its landmark verdict on November 9, 2019, resolved the decades-long dispute over the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site and cleared the way for the building of a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The apex court also directed the government to set up a trust that would be responsible for the temples construction and management. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in February 2020, fulfilling a long-standing demand and promise of the Hindu community.

The government, in 2020, revealed the names and details of the 15 members who are part of the Ram Temple Trust. The trust comprises eminent personalities from various fields, including religious, legal, social, and administrative. Senior Supreme Court advocate K. Parasaran, 93, is the head of the trust.

The establishment of the trust has been welcomed by ministers, political leaders, and parties, who have hailed it as a historic step towards realizing the dream of a magnificent Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The 15 members of the trust are:
KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 21:25 | Arts, All, Japan

Japanese comedian and TV personality Hitoshi Matsumoto has sued publisher Bungei Shunju Ltd. for defamation over a report in its weekly magazine regarding his sexual behavior, his lawyer said Monday.

Matsumoto denies the report in December by Shukan Bunshun weekly magazine that he forced several women into sexual activities in 2015, demanding a correction and 550 million yen ($3.7 million) in damages, according to the lawyer.

There is no truth to the reported allegations and that they will present a clear argument to this effect during the trial at the Tokyo District Court, the lawyer added.

The magazine publisher said it stands by accuracy of its report.

Related coverage:

Japan comedian Matsumoto to go on hiatus amid sex scandal report
New Delhi: Mike Rockwell and Alan Dye provided insights into the creation and future possibilities of the eagerly awaited Vision Pro mixed-reality headset in a special video shared with Apple staff, scheduled for release on February 2. They explored potential uses beyond the initially highlighted consumer features, suggesting innovative applications in areas like medical procedures, aircraft repair, and education.

Rockwell, the vice president in charge of the device emphasized the possibilities of the Vision Pro in surgical environments. He pointed out that surgeons frequently encounter difficulties in accessing scattered information while performing procedures. (Also Read:Meta To Let EU Users Unlink Their Instagram, Facebook, And Messenger Accounts)

The mixed-reality headset could gather this data, offering a unified and simplified interface with the potential to improve patient outcomes, As per the transcript of the video conversation by Bloomberg.

It's reported that the company is already considering uses beyond the consumer market. Rockwell is enthusiastic about the headset's possibilities in education and learning. For example, technicians and aircraft mechanics could use the device for top-notch training experiences that were not possible before.

Apple revealed a 25% discount on the Vision Pro for its staff along with extra benefits in a bid to promote employee usage. Although this discount is not as substantial as those provided during earlier product launches. It includes the smartwatch and HomePod smart speaker and represents a notable reduction in the headset's cost for employees.

Apple detailed extra advantages, such as a $500 credit for a Mac every three years in a message to its employees. It can be used towards buying the Vision Pro. The company has committed to cover the expense of prescription lenses for the headset making it more affordable for employees who require vision correction.

Two important members of Rockwell's team, Dave Scott and Yaniv Gur are actively looking into opportunities in enterprise and education for the Vision Pro to explore the range of uses. Scott, who was previously involved with Apple's car team, is concentrating on potential applications in the business sector. Meanwhile, Gur who formerly oversaw engineering for Apple's productivity apps is investigating how the innovative mixed-reality headset can be applied in educational settings.
New Delhi: OnePlus is ready to unveil its OnePlus 12 series in India today at the 'Smooth Beyond Belief' event. The series includes OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R and will go on sale via the e-commerce giant Amazon. The global event takes place at 7:30 PM in Delhi. You can watch the live stream for the 'Smooth Beyond Belief' event on their official YouTube page and social channels.

To recall, the OnePlus 12 has already launched in China. Now, fans across India and parts of Europe will get a chance to buy the powerful device. Notably, the Indian variant of the OnePlus 12 is expected to have similar specifications to the model launched in China. It is expected that the OnePlus 12 could be unveiled at a price tag considerably higher than its predecessor.

Where will you be in 4 years? The #OnePlus12 and #OnePlus12R will likely still be Fast and Smooth Launching Jan 23



Get notified: https://t.co/cIQ81FKX2i pic.twitter.com/I43PQyZdU3  OnePlus India (@OnePlus_IN) January 19, 2024

Ahead of the launch, let's have a quick look at the expected specifications of the OnePlus 12 series

OnePlus 12R and OnePlus 12 Display

The OnePlus 12R is likely to feature a 6.78-inch 1.5K OLED display with a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, while the OnePlus 12 could be packed with a 6.82-inch QHD+ 2K OLED LTPO display with a peak brightness of 4,500 nits.

OnePlus 12R and OnePlus 12 Camera

The OnePlus 12R could feature a 50MP OIS primary camera, while the OnePlus 12 may be packed with a 32MP selfie camera. (Also Read: WhatsApp Is Working On This Feature To Make File Transfer Easy; Check Here)

OnePlus 12R and OnePlus 12 Chipsets

The OnePlus 12R is expected to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC based on a 4nm process, while the OnePlus 12 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC paired with Adreno GPU.

OnePlus 12R and OnePlus 12 Battery

The OnePlus 12R is expected to be loaded with a 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast-wired charging support, while the OnePlus 12 is expected to come with a 5,400mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless fast charging support.
New Delhi: The CEO of OpenAI discussed the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential effects on human society during a compelling panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Led by CNN's Fareed Zakaria, the conversation explored the fundamental abilities of humans and the difficulties associated with the advancement of artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Responding to Zakaria's inquiry regarding human strengths compared to AGI, Altman acknowledged that the panel including himself found it challenging to offer a compelling response. He emphasized that the fundamental aspect of human behavior is forgiveness. Altman noted that humans tend to forgive each other's mistakes but the same level of forgiveness is not extended to errors made by machines.

Illustrating autonomous driving, Altman underscored how society is more lenient toward mistakes made by human taxi drivers compared to the lower tolerance for errors exhibited by self-driving cars. This inconsistency in forgiveness poses a notable challenge as AI progresses.

The conversation also addressed humans' capacity to comprehend and address the interests of others. Altman proposed that individuals inherently grasp human interests, a viewpoint not fully shared by fellow panelist Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce. Benioff speculated that AI might soon assume the role of moderators, anticipating and addressing the audience's needs without human involvement.

The discussion shifted to the intricate equilibrium between AI and human decision-making. Altman affirmed that despite AI progress humans would remain pivotal in shaping decisions for the world. He maintained the belief that humanity would uphold the power to influence the future, recognizing the unique aspects aspects of general-purpose cognition.

Altman and Benioff both recognized the escalating concerns accompanying the progression of AI towards AGI. Altman anticipated a rise in societal stress and tension as AGI development continued drawing from his personal experience during a brief period when he temporarily lost control of OpenAI. He detailed the heightened emotions and stress linked to responsibly navigating the journey towards potent AI.

In a statement, Benioff stressed the significance of ensuring the responsible advancement of AI, expressing a desire to prevent harm and avoid catastrophic incidents similar to a Hiroshima moment.
KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 23:00 | All, World, Japan

The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.

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LDP panel to seek faction disbandment in event of funds law violation

TOKYO - A reform panel of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party will propose introducing a system enabling the party to request a faction to disband if found violating the political funds control law, sources close to the matter said Monday.

In its interim report, expected to be released later this week, the panel will also recommend that the party toughen its penalties on lawmakers in the event of arrest or indictment for violating the same law, according to the sources.

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Taiwan raises over $17 million donation for Japan quake

TAIPEI - Taiwan has raised over NT$540 million ($17.2 million) from the private sector in a fundraising campaign to help Japan recover from a powerful earthquake three weeks ago that killed more than 200 people, the island's Health and Welfare Ministry said Monday.

During the two-week campaign through last Friday, a total of NT$541,589,468 was raised, with more than 134,000 donations made to the program, according to the ministry. Separately, Taiwan's government has offered Japan 60 million yen ($405,000) to assist with the disaster.

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Elementary, junior high schools reopen as quake recovery continues

KANAZAWA, Japan - All elementary and junior high schools in the central Japan areas hit hardest by a powerful quake three weeks ago were back operating on Monday, in a sign some aspects of life in the badly damaged area are returning to normal.

In Ishikawa Prefecture, the final two schools in the city of Suzu and all nine schools in the town of Noto resumed classes, meaning students are back at all 20 elementary and junior high schools that were closed in the municipalities in the wake of the temblor.

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ICAN chief urges Japan to recognize nuke ban, not fear U.S. reaction

TOKYO - The head of international anti-nuclear group ICAN said Monday that Japanese leadership should not fear the U.S. government's reaction and move to recognize the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons as the ban marks its third anniversary.

"It's silly to be frightened of the risk coming from what the Americans think about observing or joining the treaty," Melissa Parke, executive director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, said in an interview with Kyodo News.

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Women's sumo tourney to launch in Feb. with backing from Hakuho

TOKYO - A new sumo tournament aimed at boosting women's involvement in the ancient sport will take place in Tokyo on Feb. 11 with the support of former yokozuna Hakuho, organizers of the event said Monday.

About 200 female wrestlers, from first graders to high school students, plan to compete in the inaugural Dream Girls Cup at Sumida Futsal Arena. The organizers hope it will help make more women familiar with sumo from childhood and build the sport's fan base.

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Sumo: Top-division debutant Onosato stays among leaders on Day 9

TOKYO - Rookie sensation Onosato overpowered former sekiwake Meisei to keep his share of the lead and clinch a winning record Monday at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.

The much-hyped No. 15 maegashira from Ishikawa Prefecture shares the top rung at 8-1 with sekiwake Kotonowaka and No. 14 Onosho, while lone yokozuna Terunofuji is one win back alongside ozeki Kirishima and Hoshoryu at 7-2.

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TSE to require top-tier listed firms to make disclosures in English

TOKYO - Tokyo Stock Exchange Inc. has decided to require firms listed on its top-tier Prime Market to disclose financial results in English in addition to Japanese in a bid to attract more investment from foreigners.

The policy, which will impact around 1,600 firms from March 2025, comes amid complaints from foreign investors that not enough data is provided in English and that some major firms fail to release information in English at the same time as information in Japanese.

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Japan Moon explorer loses power few hours after successful landing

TOKYO - A Japanese lunar explorer equipped with precision navigation technology lost power a few hours after successfully landing on the Moon over the weekend as it was unable to generate power from the Sun, the country's space agency said Monday.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency said it managed to retrieve data regarding the details of the touchdown of the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon, or SLIM, which has been a key focus of the mission, as the agency sought to manage a pinpoint landing with an unprecedented precision of 100 meters from its intended target.



Video: Evacuation drill held on Yakushima Island off Kyushu
KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 13:50 | All, Japan

All elementary and junior high schools in the central Japan areas hit hardest by a powerful quake three weeks ago were back operating on Monday, in a sign some aspects of life in the badly damaged area are returning to normal.

In Ishikawa Prefecture, the final two schools in the city of Suzu and all nine schools in the town of Noto resumed classes, meaning students are back at all 20 elementary and junior high schools that were closed in the municipalities in the wake of the temblor.

Roughly 140 junior high school students from the areas on Sunday left their families to travel more than 100 kilometers to the prefectural capital of Kanazawa where they will continue their studies in more suitable surroundings.

The magnitude-7.6 earthquake hit the Noto Peninsula in the Sea of Japan prefecture on Jan. 1, claiming at least 232 lives and leaving more than 20 missing as of Sunday.

Transport has also been gradually recovering, with the JR Nanao Line between Hakui and Nanao stations resuming services Monday, with some limited express services made available.

At JR Nanao Station, the return of the trains brought relief to students, including Reona Hamamichi, a 17-year-old attending Nanao High School who has evacuated from Wajima to Kanazawa.

"I was worried about whether I could return to school, but with the trains now running again, I'm able to attend. It's wonderful to reunite with my friends after a long time," the student said.

In Wajima, a nursery school became the first to reopen among the 11 that closed in the city.

The Kawai nursery opened to care for the children of workers engaged in relief efforts, looking after the children for free on weekdays from 8:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

"I am grateful (for the service) because I have to work," said Yuka Hikimochi, a 33-year-old employee of an electricity utility, who dropped off her two children, Nika, 6, and Taki, 3.

With no water supplies, the nursery has been forced to offer meals and snacks from relief supplies and has prepared makeshift toilets.

Kanae Uehata, 51, the temporary head of the nursery, cited the nursery's commitment to helping families, saying, "We want to provide child care so that everything can return to normal as soon as possible."

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More students in quake-hit central Japan evacuate to continue studies

Elon Musk's Starlink helps communications in quake-hit central Japan

Quake chaos forces Wajima kids to leave families to continue studies
By Maricar Cinco, KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 13:33 | World, All, Japan

The Philippines has taken steps to ensure foreign nationals detained in its main immigration facility in Manila cannot conduct criminal activities the way the "Luffy"-led Japanese crime ring organized burglaries until they were busted a year ago, the country's justice secretary said recently.

"We have pinpointed the weaknesses in the system" of immigration detention, Jesus Crispin Remulla said in an interview with Kyodo News last Thursday, adding the Philippines has learned lessons from the case, in which four leaders of the ring orchestrated crimes in Japan in 2021 and 2022 while inside the facility.

Kiyoto Imamura, who the Japanese police suspect used the pseudonym Luffy when planning the crimes, and the three others are believed to have coordinated the robberies from the immigration detention facility via an encrypted messaging app through which they offered high-paid jobs to people in Japan for the executions of the crimes.

The Philippine justice secretary said such cases "will not happen anymore."

In late January last year, Remulla first revealed that the ringleader of the gang known to have gone by the name Luffy was being held in the Philippines.

Following the deportation of Imamura and three others to Japan in February last year, the department placed a limit to the detainees' access to such communication tools as smartphones at the facility, Remulla said.

The department also transferred or dismissed some guards at the facility and has done regular shuffles of personnel, Remulla said, adding he intends to make a surprise visit to the facility to check the situation there.

"It became very apparent when this case came because the jail facility was treated seemingly like a kingdom of jailers, that they seem to earn money from everything that people were doing inside," he said. "So we have to put a stop to that."

With the four Japanese men having sought to avoid deportation by requesting lawyers in the Philippines to file trumped-up domestic charges, Remulla also warned that the lawyers involved could face disbarment, he said.

The Manila facility had 17 Japanese detainees at the beginning of 2023 before the deportation of the four men, and the number decreased to 12, according to the department.

The total number of detainees at the facility currently stands at over 270, more than twice its capacity, and the majority are nationals of China and South Korea, Remulla said.

The justice secretary underscored his country's improved coordination with the governments of China, South Korea and other countries whose citizens are detained in the Philippines for their swifter expulsion.

The Japanese crime ring is suspected of being involved in a total of over 50 cases of robbery, theft and other crimes across 14 prefectures in Japan. The four ringleaders were indicted for some of the cases in December last year.

Related coverage:

Philippines to OK ICC drug war probe in country if legal process met

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4 "Luffy" crime ringleaders indicted over 2022 robbery
By Takayuki Kojima, KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 07:27 | All, Japan, Feature

A nursery located in a part of the western metropolis of Osaka that is known for its diverse ethnic mix offers a window into what Japan could be if it continues to look for overseas solutions to its demographic challenges.

In the city's Ikuno Ward, where a fifth of the residents are non-Japanese, around half the preschoolers at the Ikunokomorebi Hoikuen are Vietnamese nationals or have roots in the Southeast Asian country. Most came to Japan with migrant parents and struggle to speak Japanese.

This is why Keiko Tsujimoto, the 72-year-old nursery head, is emphasizing Japanese language education in her preschool curriculum to get her students ready for primary school. But she fears without government support to accommodate kids like those under her, they might be left behind.

"If they continue on in this way to elementary, they won't be able to adapt and will drop out of school," Tsujimoto said in a recent interview with Kyodo News.

Every Monday morning, there is a 30-minute Japanese study period open to preschoolers who struggle to communicate in the language. Roughly 10 participate each week, practicing basic phonetics for words that make up the Japanese hiragana and katakana syllabaries as well as other parts of the language.

A girls' changing room lined with desks and chairs is the makeshift classroom for this hastily arranged program that began in spring 2023. The kids use teaching aids, such as handwritten picture cards including Vietnamese words to help them along.

"Every day we grasp for answers," said Daisuke Hironaka, 29, the deputy head of the nursery and a Japanese language teacher.

On one day, the school lunch is pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle dish. The class of 5-year-olds of various nationalities, including Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese, sit at a table as they eat and talk in a lively manner in the Kansai dialect, characterized by its melodic but rough sounds compared with standard Japanese.

"It's Vietnamese udon!" exclaims one child. "I ate this before at home," chimes in another. "I hate vegetables!" another adds.

About three years ago, there was a sudden surge in the number of children of Vietnamese descent attending the school.

Ikuno Ward has many small factories and warehouses, and with relatively affordable rents and prices, many Vietnamese migrants are drawn to the area. There is also a Japanese language school for foreign students.

Of the 98 preschoolers at the nursery, nearly half are Vietnamese, while there are also Chinese and Korean children.

Due to cultural differences and other factors, some of the children still continue to nurse even at age three and older. Because their parents speak to them in their native language, the children's understanding of Japanese tends to be delayed. A particular challenge is faced by 5- and 6-year-olds who are about to enter grade school.

Tsujimoto said that many have a problem keeping up from the very first day of Japanese elementary school and develop a complex about learning, leading to delinquent behavior.

In the spring of 2023, the nursery hired 23-year-old Trinh Thi Huyen Trang, a former student from Vietnam who graduated from a Japanese language school affiliate of the preschool, as a childcare assistant.

In addition to childcare and language interpretation, Trang is an indispensable presence, acting as a liaison between the parents and nursery staff, providing parents with information on the progress of their children and other necessary correspondence.

"The most troubling thing is when children get sick. My next step is to become a certified childcare worker," she said.

In Ikuno Ward, along with the long-standing Korean community, the number of Indonesian, Burmese, Nepalese and others has grown significantly.

Tsujimoto believes it is only natural for Japan to have a responsibility to better accommodate its burgeoning foreign communities as they provide a much-needed workforce that helps the nation overcome its now inescapable labor shortage.

"Nowadays, Japanese people's lives would not be possible without foreign workers in agriculture, manufacturing and other industries," she said. "We hope that society will accept them and their children as permanent residents, and that the national government and administration will provide support for them."

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KYODO NEWS - Jan 22, 2024 - 23:06 | All, Japan, World

The head of international anti-nuclear group ICAN said Monday that Japanese leadership should not fear the U.S. government's reaction and move to recognize the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons as the ban marks its third anniversary.

"It's silly to be frightened of the risk coming from what the Americans think about observing or joining the treaty," Melissa Parke, executive director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, said in an interview with Kyodo News.

"When you compare that to the risk of nuclear weapons, I think it's important to have some perspective," the former Australian lawmaker's said amid her first Japan visit since becoming ICAN's head in September. She also went to Hiroshima and Nagasaki and met hibakusha atomic bomb survivors, among others.

Although Japan suffered the devastating atomic bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in the closing days of World War II, its government does not recognize the treaty effectively banning nuclear arms. Instead, it backs the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons while under the U.S. nuclear umbrella's protection.

ICAN won the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for its work to realize the TPNW. The treaty has been ratified by 70 countries predominantly in the Global South, with Indonesia and Brazil expected to follow suit this year, Parke said.

Neither Japan nor any of the nuclear-armed states are among them, but Parke pointed to the examples of countries such as New Zealand and the Philippines, non-umbrella countries with close military ties to the United States, that have ratified the treaty.

"The U.S. is not going anywhere, it's not going to ditch its relationship with Japan if Japan observes or even joins the treaty," she said. "Japan of all states has an interest in this issue of nuclear weapons, having been bombed by the United States."

Fears of nuclear conflict are high following threats stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and, more recently, nuclear-capable Israel's conflict in Gaza and tit-for-tat missile exchanges between Iran and nuclear-armed Pakistan.

Among recent commitments to deterrence, the May 2023 Hiroshima Group of Seven leaders' summit chaired by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida released a communique on nuclear disarmament upholding the NPT and saying nuclear arms should "serve defensive purposes, deter aggression and prevent war and coercion" for as long as they exist.

While Parke conceded the current global nuclear situation is "a more complex picture than it was during the Cold War," she said more nuclear arms heighten global risk and called deterrence a "circular" argument.

"What we need is global leadership to break out of that cycle of military buildup and constant confrontation because it's leading to proliferation," she said.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, as of the start of 2023, nine nuclear powers possessed an estimated 12,512 nuclear weapons. About 2,000 warheads were on high alert status, the same number as a year before.

Despite attempts to arrange a meeting with Kishida, however, Parke on Tuesday instead meets a special advisor behind closed doors.

Reflecting on her visit to Japan, Parke said atomic bomb survivors are the nuclear debate's true realists. "People who call themselves realists and security experts and so forth, they talk in these abstract terms like deterrence and security and stability, but the reality is Hiroshima and Nagasaki and what happened," she said.

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The Kyoto Shimbun - Jan 22, 2024 - 09:19 | All, Japan

An auspicious white boar recently attracted the attention of visitors at Goou Jinja shrine in Kyoto. The Shinto shrine hopes the animal will bring people comfort and help them move forward after the year started with a powerful earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture.

The shrine's lore has it that Wake no Kiyomaro, a figure in 8th-century Japan and its enshrined deity, was protected by 300 boars when he was banished from the ancient capital to the southwestern island of Kyushu. His leg injuries are also said to have healed because of his encounter with them.

Goou Jinja thus reveres boars as spiritual beings, and within its grounds sit a pair of boar statues instead of komainu, or statues of lion-like creatures commonly seen in Shinto shrines.

The white boar was born at Takara Hachimangu shrine in Oita Prefecture in May 2009 to a boar that was also white, likely because of a gene mutation. She was subsequently given to Goou Jinja because of the shrine's deep association with boars. Her name, Karin, comes from a large tree on the Kyoto shrine's premises.

Karin has been fed and trained by Kozo Saito, the 76-year-old owner of a mobile zoo in Shizuoka Prefecture, and is brought to the Kyoto shrine annually for New Year's. The 14-year-old mammal is 1.1 meters long and weighs 41 kilograms. While being quite old for a boar, she has a healthy appetite and is wholesome, according to Saito.

As the boar was let out of its cage on Jan. 4 to roam around the Goou Jinja grounds, visitors who happened to be there appeared surprised and snapped photos of the animal. Because the boar only came out at certain times throughout the day, it was difficult for visitors to catch a glimpse of her.

A recent post by the shrine about the white boar on X, formerly Twitter, has garnered over 70,000 impressions and 2,000 likes. "A white boar is quite rare. While there's been terrible news around us, I hope people can feel a tiny bit brighter," Saito said.

Takahiro Hongo, the shrine's chief priest, says visitors like the boar, seeing it as an auspicious sign. "Though we may all feel depressed, I hope the boar can warm your heart and get you to move forward like boars."

The Kyoto Shimbun

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BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- China is briskly fostering new competitive edges from electric cars to e-commerce platforms to stabilize foreign trade this year against the backdrop of a sluggish global economy.

A "ro-ro" (roll-on/roll-off) cargo vessel carrying over 5,000 new energy vehicles embarked on its maiden voyage last week from Shenzhen Port in south China's Guangdong Province. The ship leased to Chinese automaker BYD set sail for the ports of Vlissingen in the Netherlands and Bremerhaven in Germany.

Car exports emerged as a bright spot in China's foreign trade. With 4.91 million vehicles shipped overseas in 2023, the country is expected to become the world's largest auto exporter.

Clothes, furniture and home appliances -- major products from China in the past -- have been replaced by the tech-intensive and green "new three," namely electric passenger vehicles, solar batteries and lithium-ion batteries, which reported a combined export volume of over 1 trillion yuan (about 140 billion U.S. dollars) last year.

"Innovation is especially critical in a saturated global market," said Zhang Wei, vice president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce, when commenting on China's changing export structure.

In the face of fierce global competition, Chinese enterprises are accelerating their transition toward intelligent and environmentally friendly practices in hopes of standing out with new technologies and compelling products.

At the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show, which concluded on Jan. 12 in the U.S. city of Las Vegas, Chinese companies launched a series of new tech products, including new-generation TVs, robots, electric vehicles and solar panels.

Computer giant Lenovo unveiled a full lineup of more than 40 new devices and solutions powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Television brand TCL presented the world's largest QD-Mini LED TV. Hisense brought its automobile laser displays, rollable laser TVs, and cutting-edge screen technologies.

Chinese enterprises no longer rely solely on low prices but boast fresh advantages of high technologies, high added value, and high quality, Fang Xueyu, president of Hisense Group's international marketing unit, said.

Apart from tech products, booming e-commerce platforms have also given a boost to China's foreign trade.

In Yiwu, a production hub for small commodities in east China's Zhejiang Province, Guo Xinxin is contemplating the possibility of exploring Mercado Libre, the largest e-commerce platform in Latin America, as a means to expand his business.

Guo works for a trading company and leads a team responsible for selling kitchen utensils and household products on various e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, AliExpress and TEMU. Manufacturers only need to send the goods to the domestic warehouse of the platforms, which handle cross-border logistics, marketing promotion, return and exchange, and even legal affairs.

"Many producers who were engaged only in domestic trade are going overseas through this mode," Guo said.

Some tech-savvy sellers even took advantage of AI to make their products reach more global consumers.

Zhang Jiying, an umbrella vendor in Yiwu, now has a digital assistant capable of promoting products in 36 languages, including English, French and Spanish. This virtual representative can conduct livestream shows 24 hours a day, exhibiting movements and expressions akin to a human being. "She has not only captured the attention of our regular customers but also drawn in new fans," Zhang said.

There are over 4,000 AI-powered virtual livestreamers in Yiwu and experts believe that such burgeoning digital technologies will bring fresh impetus to e-commerce and trade growth.

In 2023, China's cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 2.38 trillion yuan, an increase of 15.6 percent from a year ago.

China's trade prospects for this year will also be enhanced, thanks to the country's unwavering commitment to opening up.

Despite gloomy global trade, the country has opened its door wider to the world, with efforts to promote Belt and Road cooperation, improve its pilot free trade zones, and expand the network of free trade agreements (FTAs) with other countries.

In 2023, China's imports and exports with countries participating in Belt and Road cooperation reached 19.47 trillion yuan, accounting for 46.6 percent of China's total foreign trade. The China-Nicaragua FTA, which took effect on Jan. 1, 2024, offered tariff exemptions for about 60 percent of goods in the bilateral trade and the volume will be gradually raised to over 95 percent.

With continued policy support and opening up, China will foster more new trade drivers to ensure stable and quality growth of both imports and exports, Wang Lingjun, deputy head of the General Administration of Customs, said. 
As the world's largest developing country and a continent home to dozens of developing countries, China and Africa are joining forces to advance their respective modernization with distinctive features.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
People leave their home after Israeli bombings in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Jan. 22, 2024.

At least 50 Palestinians have been killed and dozens of others wounded by Israeli bombings on shelter centers of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical sources said on Monday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GAZA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- At least 50 Palestinians have been killed and dozens of others wounded by Israeli bombings on shelter centers of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical sources said on Monday.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said in a press statement that it had received "reports of deaths and injuries among the displaced as a result of the occupation's bombings of shelter centers."

"Israeli tanks approached Al-Amal Hospital, and we completely lost contact with our crews in Khan Younis as a result of the ground incursion," it added.

The organization said that ambulances were unable to reach the injured in Khan Younis, because of Israeli forces' siege of its ambulance center and "targeting anyone who tries to move around."

In addition, the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza said in a press statement that Israel had targeted five shelter centers in the city of Khan Younis.

The statement noted that "the Israeli army targeted the displacement centers with direct bombardments, Quadcopter aircraft, drone aircraft, and artillery, which led to dozens of deaths and wounded."

Ashraf Al-Qedra, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health in Gaza, said in a press statement that "the Israeli occupation is committing horrific crimes west of Khan Younis."

He added that "dozens of deaths and wounded are still in the targeted places and roads," and the Israeli forces prevented ambulances from transferring the wounded people and retrieving the bodies of the victims in the west of Khan Younis. 

People leave their home after Israeli bombings in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Jan. 22, 2024.

At least 50 Palestinians have been killed and dozens of others wounded by Israeli bombings on shelter centers of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical sources said on Monday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

People leave their home after Israeli bombings in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Jan. 22, 2024.

At least 50 Palestinians have been killed and dozens of others wounded by Israeli bombings on shelter centers of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Palestinian medical sources said on Monday. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)
ISLAMABAD, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan and Iran have mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by Jan. 26.

The decision was made following the telephone conversation between the Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and the Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, a joint press statement of Pakistan and Iran said on Monday.

It added that Amir-Abdollahian will also undertake a visit to Pakistan on Jan. 29 at the invitation of Jilani.

Pakistan's foreign ministry last Wednesday announced the recall of its ambassador from Iran, saying that the Iranian ambassador to Pakistan who was in Iran may not return for the time being.

It also announced to suspend all high-level visits that were ongoing or were planned between Pakistan and Iran.

The situation unfolded after Pakistani children were killed and three girls were injured due to Iran's violation of Pakistan's airspace on Tuesday.

Pakistani caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar said on Friday evening that it is in the interest of both Pakistan and Iran to take steps to restore relations to where they were before the recent tension.

Pakistan would welcome and reciprocate all positive measures from the Iranian side, said Kakar. 
COLOMBO, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Ninety-one percent of Sri Lankan children have received measles vaccines, a crucial step in combating a recent resurgence of the disease after eradication, Health Minister Ramesh Pathirana said on Monday.

Addressing a press conference at the Presidential Media Center, Pathirana outlined further health priorities for 2024, saying that disease prevention takes center stage, with plans to bolster primary healthcare services and improve efficiency for patients.

The minister said tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remains a major challenge, as over 20 percent of Sri Lankans battle diabetes, and the country has high prevalence of high blood pressure.

Amid a rapidly aging population, Sri Lanka is proactively addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases like memory impairment, eye diseases, and bone diseases through dedicated programs, said Pathirana.

Dengue fever, another pressing concern, is being tackled with special efforts, seeking increased public collaboration alongside support from health and security departments, said Pathirana.

Recognizing the existing drug shortage, the government is actively importing essential medicines, with shortages gradually decreasing, according to the minister. 
TEHRAN, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- The soldier who killed five comrades and injured the other two Sunday evening in southeastern Iran was under arrest, an army commander confirmed on Monday.

The soldier, who had been on duty guarding his unit, entered the barracks' dormitory, where his comrades were resting, and opened fire on them, said Amir Gholamalian, commander of the Iranian army's southeast headquarters.

The incident took place in Baghin city in the southeastern Iranian province of Kerman at 16:35 local time (1305 GMT), said the commander, noting that interrogations were underway to determine the motive.

According to the semi-official Fars news agency, the shooter was arrested on Monday morning in Zarand County in the same province while he was carrying six magazines, 180 bullets, and two Kalashnikov rifles.

The 20-year-old individual had stolen two vehicles while attempting to flee, it said. 
Dancers perform at the Shaanxi Opera House in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 12, 2023. (Xinhua)

XI'AN, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- For Lyu Hang, an avid fan of theater performances, attending as many as 10 dance dramas with diverse themes during the past year provided her with both emotional and spiritual satisfaction.

"These dramas not only captivate the eyes of numerous audiences but also introduce innovative ways to blend cultures and arts across time and space for laymen like me," said the 32-year-old theater enthusiast who is a frequent visitor to the Shaanxi Opera House in the historic city of Xi'an in northwest China.

Chinese dance dramas have garnered high acclaim from youngsters due to their diverse themes, spanning human relations with nature, iconic literati and historical novels, and artistic practices from both the East and the West.

According to a report from the China Association of Performing Arts, people aged 18 to 34 had been a predominant segment of the consumer base in the performing arts market in 2022, accounting for over 76 percent of the total audience.

For instance, the dance drama "Crested Ibises," named after the bird species featuring a red crest and long black beak, tells the story of how people strive to maintain a harmonious co-existence between humanity and nature during the process of urbanization and industrialization.

The crested ibis was thought to be extinct in China until seven wild birds were spotted in Yangxian County in Shaanxi in 1981. After more than 40 years of protection efforts, its global population has exceeded 10,000.

The drama visualizes the natural movements of the species and demonstrates the common environmental crisis faced by the whole world through vivid stagecraft. "The exquisite combination of Chinese folk dance and Western ballet makes it a true masterpiece," said Dai Ping, a professor at Shanghai Theatre Academy.

According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in the first three quarters of 2023, a total of about 342,000 commercial performances were staged in China, which attracted over 110 million viewers, up 121 percent and 188.5 percent, respectively, from the same period of 2019.

Lyu said that the most impressive drama she watched in 2023 was "Poetic Dance: Dongpo," which she believes is a good example of cultural fusion. The performance depicts the life of Su Shi, a poet and cultural icon from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) through 15 of his most recognized poems.

"I once asked my French friends' impressions of the drama. They told me that they could sense the character's emotions and thoughts conveyed through body movements even without translation," said Shen Wei, who directed the poetic dance.

In recent years, several Chinese dance dramas including "Confucius" and "Mulan" hit international stages in the United States, Mexico and many other countries.

"Art has no boundaries. I hope that audiences from different cultural backgrounds can feel the shared pursuit of human beings through dance dramas," Shen said. 
KINGSTON, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Jamaican Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson Smith highlighted fruitful results of bilateral cooperation during their meeting in the Jamaican capital of Kingston on Saturday.

Johnson Smith expressed her pleasure to receive the Chinese foreign minister at Jamaica's new foreign ministry building, one of China's aid projects in the country. Noting that Jamaica is the first English-speaking Caribbean country to support the one-China principle and has since adhered to this position, she said Jamaica is proud of this tradition and will continue to unswervingly stick to the one-China principle.

Johnson Smith said the two countries enjoy solid mutual political trust, highly compatible ideas, mutually beneficial cooperation, and active people-to-people exchanges, yielding fruitful results in their strategic partnership.

She thanked China for providing valuable support to Jamaica's economic development and improvement of people's livelihood, and for helping Jamaica successfully fight the pandemic.

Jamaica values China's experience in governance and has been strengthening economic development planning and striving to eliminate poverty, Johnson Smith said, adding that her country looks forward to expanding bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, economy and trade, agriculture, education, science and technology, while developing a strong strategic partnership between the two countries.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China and Jamaica are geographically far apart, but have a long history of friendly exchanges. It has been 170 years since Chinese migrants first arrived in Jamaica.

Jamaica is one of the first Caribbean countries to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China and the first Caribbean country to establish a strategic partnership with China. China appreciates the correct decision made by Jamaica, its unwavering friendship with China, and its firm support for China in safeguarding core interests, Wang noted.

Strategic partnership means mutual trust and mutual support. China and Jamaica respect each other and treat each other as equals. Their bilateral relations have achieved a historic leap, and their friendly cooperation has achieved fruitful results, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples, said Wang.

History has proved and will continue to prove that the China-Jamaica friendship is in line with the fundamental and long-term interests of both countries, Wang said, adding that China is willing to continue to support Jamaica in accelerating national development and revitalization, to write a new chapter of the China-Jamaica friendship as well as make new achievements in bilateral win-win cooperation.

Wang stressed that China adheres to the path of peaceful development, practices genuine multilateralism, and promotes the political settlement of hot-spot issues, making it a major country with the best record in peace and security.

In a world lacking fairness and full of injustice, China will always stand on the side of fairness and justice, support the cause of the vast developing countries, in particular small and medium-sized countries. China supports the Caribbean countries in their efforts to unite for development and advance regional integration, Wang said.

China is willing to jointly implement a series of important global initiatives proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping with Caribbean countries, promoting a high-level China-Jamaica comprehensive partnership featuring mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit and common development, he added.

Johnson Smith stated that Jamaica fully agrees with the concept of peaceful diplomacy, highly appreciates China's role as a major country, supports and will actively participate in a series of Chinese global initiatives, and stands ready to make more achievements in the relationship between Caribbean countries and China. 
BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council on Monday held an executive meeting to mull measures to advance rural revitalization on all fronts.

The meeting, chaired by Premier Li Qiang, also reviewed and adopted a guideline for promoting the high-quality development of the instant delivery industry, and made arrangements for facilitating new industrialization with artificial intelligence.

It was briefed on the operation of the capital market as well as considerations for related work, and discussed a draft law on atomic energy and a draft revision of the law on anti-money laundering. 
GENEVA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- China has made positive contributions to global human rights governance in the past five years after its last Universal Periodic Review (UPR), experts from the China Society for Human Rights Studies told Xinhua here on Monday.

China's human rights record will be examined by the United Nations Human Rights Council's UPR Working Group for the fourth time on Tuesday.

China is one of 14 States to be reviewed by the UPR Working Group during its session from Jan. 22 to Feb. 2. The first, second and third UPR reviews of China took place in February 2009, October 2013 and November 2018 respectively.

Zheng Liang, a professor at the School of Journalism and Communication of Jinan University, told Xinhua that in the past five years, China's modernization drive has not only promoted the development of China's human rights protection but also made significant contributions to the world's human rights cause in terms of concept promotion and in-depth practice.

China itself is committed to promoting human rights through development, putting the people first and advancing a path of human rights development suited to its national conditions, and meanwhile it provides support and assistance to developing countries and regions in infrastructure, education, health and agriculture, according to Zheng.

Chang Jian, director of the Center for the Study of Human Rights at Nankai University, said that since the last review, China's ranking in the United Nations Human Development Index has continued to rise, demonstrating the advantages of China's modernization and human rights development paths.

He said that the goal of China's modernization process is also the ultimate pursuit of the development of China's human rights cause.

Mao Junxiang, executive director of the Human Rights Center of Central South University, said that while countries have different opinions on how to promote the human rights cause, no one should force other countries to follow a certain human rights model.

To respect the diversity of civilizations is an inevitable requirement for advancing the cause of human rights, he said, adding that this will further need to respect different civilizations' understanding of the connotation of human rights and avoid imposing one's own human rights values and models onto others. 
Photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows a blackboard damaged in a stampede at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

YAOUNDE, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at a government-run secondary school in the Cameroonian capital of Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie.

"Following the incident today at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School, the 106 students who were injured are currently receiving care free of charge in our hospitals, following our health emergency protocols, and are stable. A mental health team has been made available to families," Manaouda said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The tragedy occurred at about 7:00 a.m. local time at the school while students were struggling to get to classes after the daily morning devotion, according to officials.

Emmanuel Djikdent, prefect of Mfoundi division where Yaounde is located, told reporters earlier that no one died in the stampede.

"No one died. There were only minor injuries. The doctor asked that we observe some of them until 2:00 p.m.," Djikdent told a crowd of worried parents and students when he visited the school.

Some students interviewed by Xinhua said they feared some of their classmates died in the stampede. 

Gendarmes and medical workers are seen at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon, on Jan. 22, 2024. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

A man looks at a vehicle damaged in a stampede at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon, on Jan. 22, 2024. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

Photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows overturned benches in a classroom after a stampede at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

Photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows students' report cards and other documents on the ground after a stampede at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

Photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows a vehicle damaged in a stampede at the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)

People gather at the main entrance of the Etoug-Ebe Bilingual High School in Yaounde, Cameroon, on Jan. 22, 2024. About 106 students were injured on Monday following a stampede at the government-run secondary school in Yaounde, according to Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie. (Xinhua/Kepseu)
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) meets with Shen Yueyue, Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy, also the vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jan. 21, 2024. At the invitation of President of the DRC Felix Tshisekedi, Shen attended the inauguration of President Tshisekedi in DRC's capital Kinshasa on Jan. 20. (DR Congo's presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

KINSHASA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) met with Shen Yueyue, Chinese President Xi Jinping's special envoy, here on Sunday after Shen attended Tshisekedi's inauguration one day ago.

Shen, also the vice chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, conveyed Xi's cordial greetings and good wishes to Tshisekedi, saying that China attaches great importance to the development of China-DRC relations.

China is willing to jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, firmly support each other's core interests, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and promote the development of people-to-people friendship, Shen said.

China is ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, aiming to build a stronger and more dynamic comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with the DRC, Shen said.

For his part, Tshisekedi sincerely thanked Xi for sending a special envoy to attend his inauguration ceremony and asked Shen to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to his Chinese counterpart.

Tshisekedi spoke highly of the progress made in the cooperation package of "resource for projects" between the DRC and China, emphasizing that the DRC highly values the traditional friendship between the two countries.

The DRC firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to deepen cooperation with China in key areas such as mining, so as to push bilateral relations to a higher level, he added. 
GAZA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- At least 40 Palestinians were killed in Israeli continuous bombing on the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis on Monday, according to the official Palestinian news agency WAFA.

The western areas of the city were violently bombarded by Israeli warplanes and artillery while Palestinian militants and the Israeli army engaged in fierce fighting, eyewitnesses said, adding thousands of displaced Palestinians live in those areas.

The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has risen to 25,295, the Gaza-based Health Ministry said on Monday.

The ministry said in a press statement that the Israeli army killed 190 Palestinians and wounded 340 others during the past 24 hours.

It added that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has wounded at least 63,000 Palestinians since its outbreak on Oct. 7, 2023, noting that a large number of victims were still under the rubble as ambulance and civil defense crews could not reach them. 
A staff member of a sheep breeding cooperative holds a newborn Kamba lamb in Kamba County, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Dec. 20, 2023. (Xinhua/Lodro Gyatso)

LHASA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- As sunshine graces the foot of the snow-covered mountains surrounding Kamba County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, villagers from a local sheep breeding cooperative crack their herding whips to guide thousands of sheep out of their pen.

The county, sitting at an average altitude of more than 4,300 meters, registers an annual average temperature of only 1.5 degrees Celsius. Boasting a unique geographical environment, the county is well-known for its Kamba sheep in Xizang and the villagers here mainly rely on herding for a living.

In an effort to establish standardized herding practices, sci-tech commissioners have been dispatched to this county. Today, all sheep in Kamba have ear tags that allow for the tracing of their growth, contributing to a continuous increase in their numbers.

Lhapa Tsering, a member of the sheep breeding cooperative, was once a successful herder but now runs a restaurant here.

"I was finding it difficult to balance family life and herding before the cooperative was established in March 2019," he said. The increasing number of sheep in his family demanded more time, while his aging parents needed more care.

In the past, when confronted with such a dilemma, villagers like Lhapa Tsering had no choice but to sell some sheep or ask their school-aged children to give up their studies and return home to herd the sheep.

However, villagers today have gained a new option, thanks to the sheep breeding cooperative. Lhapa Tsering was among the first to join the cooperative, though many villagers were initially skeptical of it.

They doubted if others could care for their family sheep as well as they could, recalled Phurbu Tsering, head of the cooperative. "After over 30 meetings, we finally managed to convince most of them to join the cooperative."

The cooperative only requires over 20 herders to take care of all the sheep, with the count reaching thousands.

"I had to herd sheep for my family and did not have the opportunity to attend school properly when I was a child," said Phurbu Tsering. Children in the county can now fully focus on their studies, and villagers with spare time have started exploring other income opportunities.

Before 2019, only three villagers had driver's licenses, whereas today almost every household has at least one driver now. More than 70 villagers now work in other places, bringing an increase in per capita annual income of nearly 20,000 yuan (about 2,813 U.S. dollars).

The modern production and management of the cooperative has also helped to expand sales channels. Through online channels and contracts for bulk orders, the cooperative sold over 10,000 Kamba sheep in 2023, generating a total income of over 5 million yuan. Over 2 million yuan and 1,000 sheep were distributed to members as dividends the same year.

By the end of 2023, Kamba County had become home to 27 sheep breeding cooperatives. The per capita disposable income of rural residents in the county was expected to exceed 19,000 yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 10 percent.

All the 146 households in Lhapa Tsering's village have joined the cooperative. He runs a restaurant near his home and continues to enjoy dividends from the cooperative. Today, his family's annual income is about 200,000 yuan.

"My father also works for the cooperative, and my son as well as other children in the county can enjoy their happy winter holidays," Lhapa Tsering said. 

A herder takes care of a herd of sheep in Kamba County in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Dec. 20, 2023. (Xinhua/Lodro Gyatso)

A sheep breeding cooperative is pictured in Kamba County, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Dec. 20, 2023. (Xinhua/Lodro Gyatso)
Five officers of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed in an Israeli missile attack on a residential neighborhood in Syria's capital Damascus on Saturday.
NEW DELHI, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Two children were killed and one person critically injured Monday in an explosion at a firecracker store in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, police said.

The blast took place at Kailawada village in Muzaffarnagar district, about 617 km northwest of Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.

According to police, the fire in some firecrackers inside the store triggered the explosion.

A case has been registered and an investigation ordered into the incident, police said. 
ISLAMABAD, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Seven terrorists were killed during a clash between security forces and terrorists in Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province, the military said on Monday.

The security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Sambaza area of Zhob district of the province, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said in a statement.

During the conduct of the operation, an intense fire exchange took place between security forces and terrorists, as a result of which seven terrorists were killed, the ISPR said, adding that arms, ammunition, and explosives were also recovered during the operation.

The killed terrorists were actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces as well as innocent civilians, said the statement.

A clearance operation is being carried out to eliminate the presence of terrorists from the area, it added.

The military said that the security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the country. 
CAIRO, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chairman of Egypt's Suez Canal Authority (SCA) Osama Rabie said on Monday that the SCA will offer services to mitigate the impact of the ongoing tension in the Red Sea on ships passing through the region.

The SCA's companies and shipyards "are ready to cooperate with its agents by offering all necessary navigation, repair and maintenance services that transiting ships may need when encountering breakdowns or emergency situations," he said.

Rabie explained that repair work covers the ship's hull and damaged parts.

He added that the Suez Shipyard Company, which is affiliated to SCA, received Zografia, a 55,000-ton dry bulk carrier, for maintenance and repair.

The Greek-owned cargo ship Zografia was struck by a Houthi missile during its voyage through the Red Sea on Jan. 16.

Rabie said the SCA will spare no effort to provide all services that maintain the regularity of navigation in the canal and the sustainability of global supply chains.

"It will remain in continuous and effective communication with all of its clients to minimize the impact of the current conditions in the Red Sea," he added.

The Houthi group launched attacks on Red Sea ships in November last year that it said was a response to the Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip. The Red Sea tension escalated after American and British warplanes struck Houthi sites in Yemen earlier this month. 
YANGON, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- A woman was killed and another 11 people, including six children, were injured in a crash that involved three vehicles in southern Myanmar, according to the Bo Bo Win Emergency Rescue Services on Monday.

The accident took place at around 9:00 p.m. local time on Sunday in Mawlamyine Township of Mon State, an official from Bo Bo Win Emergency Rescue Services told Xinhua.

The crash involved a car, a motorcycle and an auto-rickshaw, he said.

All the injured were taken to the hospital, one of whom was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

The car was driving at high speed when the accident happened. It hit an auto-rickshaw and continued to hit the motorcycle.

"After 2021, we have not experienced such a major accident. This accident is the first mass accident in Mon State in 2 or 3 years," the official said. 
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with HSBC Group Chairman Mark Tucker in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with HSBC Group Chairman Mark Tucker in Beijing on Monday.

Han said the country is now advancing Chinese modernization on all fronts through high-quality development, expanding high-level opening up, and will focus on institutional opening up in terms of rules, regulations, management and standards to promote high-level financial opening up.

"We welcome HSBC Group and other international financial institutions to continue to actively participate in China's financial reform and opening up and achieve better development in China," Han said.

The Chinese central government fully supports the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in promoting the building of an international financial center, Han said, expressing the hope that the HSBC Group will make good use of its own advantages to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China and make new contributions to consolidating and upgrading Hong Kong's status as an international financial center.

Speaking highly of China's economic and social development achievements, Tucker said HSBC Group has firm confidence in investing in China, will actively participate in China's high-quality development and high-level opening up, support Hong Kong's efforts in the building of an international financial center, and promote mutually beneficial cooperation between Britain and China to achieve more results. 
US travelers benefiting from China's visa rules

08:32, January 22, 2024 By May Zhou ( Chinadaily.com.cn

Visa: Lack of interviewer causes long wait

People from the United States who travel to China have expressed satisfaction with the country's newly streamlined visa policies.

Beijing has made it easier for US residents to travel to China by no longer requiring certain documents for a visa application as of Jan 1.

"I was happy when I saw the announcement that they would no longer require proof of round-trip airfare, hotel bookings and itinerary for tourist visas," a tourist who asked to be identified only as George told China Daily.

George applied for a tourist visa at the Chinese Consulate General in Los Angeles earlier this year. He went to the consulate on a Monday morning. "I didn't have to make an appointment; I just walked in," he said.

He was roughly 15th in line, and his name was called about an hour and a half later.

"After I went up to the window, it was done in about five minutes. I wasn't asked for any of the paperwork, and I was told to come back in four days to pick up my visa. The whole process was smooth sailing.''

George, a computer engineer, said he plans to travel to China in March for about two weeks.

"I appreciate the new visa policy because it provides me with flexibility. I have only booked hotels for the first week. I do have a plan, but who knows, I might want to visit a place I haven't thought about while there. It's nice to be able to be spontaneous."

Chinese Ambassador to the US Xie Feng announced the streamlined visa process at a forum earlier this month in Atlanta, Georgia.

"Tourist visa applicants within the United States will no longer be required to submit round-trip air ticket booking record, proof of hotel reservation, itinerary or invitation letter," Xie said at a forum celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Xie said it is important to remove obstacles and spark a new boom in exchanges.

"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and worsening China-US relations, a chill loomed over people-to-people exchanges in the past few years," he said. "When travel went down, estrangement and misunderstanding went up."

Elizabeth Hin, president of The White Rose Foundation, a nonprofit that promotes understanding and harmony among the world's religions, said the change represents the deepest value in US-China relations, which is "trust and reciprocity of trust".

Hin, who attended the Atlanta forum, said she first visited China in 1978, when the country began to open up, and has gone back and forth since. "It's not that difficult to do the application and have an invitation letter," she said. "But there is a welcoming sense (in forgoing such a requirement)."

Blaine Glass, director of The White Rose Foundation, said the discussion at the forum stirred his desire to visit China again, and the easier visa application is certainly welcome. The last time he visited China was more than 20 years ago, when he toured the Xizang autonomous region. "I wanted to learn tai chi," Glass said.

As China moves to improve people-to-people contact between the two countries, Xie, the ambassador to the US, said that Beijing hopes "the US side will work with China in the same direction by taking measures to clear obstacles in travel, visa and border-entry policies, further increase direct flights significantly, and adjust the China travel advisory as soon as possible".

Jing Quan, minister of the Chinese embassy in the US, told China Daily that due to a shortage of wide-body planes among US airlines, it has been difficult to increase the number of direct flights between China and the US.

In China, the wait time for a US visa application interview is about six months. "It's just impossible to arrange your itinerary with such a long wait," Jing said.

Dennis Wilder, a senior fellow for the Initiative for US-China Dialogue on Global Issues at Georgetown University, agreed that the long wait period for a US visa interview is a big problem.

"The problem is we need more American officers to do the interviews, and we don't have enough State Department people," Wilder said. "It is not easy to solve, because for Congress, it's not a priority."

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
SEOUL, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's export slightly fell in the first 20 days of January due to lower business days, customs office data showed Monday.

Outbound shipment shrank 1.0 percent from a year earlier to 33.33 billion U.S. dollars in the Jan. 1-Jan. 20 period, according to the Korea Customs Service.

Considering the number of working days, the daily average export increased 2.2 percent in the reporting period. The monthly export kept an upward trend for the third consecutive month through December.

Import tumbled 18.2 percent to 35.94 billion dollars in the period, sending the trade deficit to 2.61 billion dollars.

Semiconductor export soared 19.7 percent to 5.3 billion dollars in the cited period.

Automotive export gained 2.6 percent to 3.48 billion dollars, but those for oil and steel products retreated in single digits to 2.86 billion dollars and 2.47 billion dollars each.

Shipment for auto parts, mobile devices and precision machinery all declined in double figures.

Import for coal, natural gas, machinery, semiconductor equipment, mobile devices and cars recorded a double-digit reduction in the 20-day period, but crude oil import added 0.7 percent to 5.45 billion dollars. 
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), meets with Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, president of the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC), in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), met with Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, president of the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC), on Monday in Beijing.

Wang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that this year marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Laos comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. He said the CPPCC National Committee is willing to work with the LFNC Central Committee to implement the important consensus reached by top leaders of the two parties and countries, build a good mechanism and platform for cooperation, and inject more positive energy into the steady and long-term development of a China-Laos community with a shared future.

Sinlavong, who is also a politburo member of the Central Committee of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), said that Laos has always adhered firmly to the one-China principle and attached great importance to the construction of a Laos-China community with a shared future. He said Laos is willing to strengthen exchanges and experience-sharing with the CPPCC National Committee to build up popular support between the two countries and make new contributions to the development of bilateral relations.

After the meeting, Wang and Sinlavong jointly attended the signing ceremony for a cooperation agreement between the CPPCC National Committee and the LFNC Central Committee. 

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), meets with Sinlavong Khoutphaythoune, president of the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC), in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)
BAGHDAD, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani said on Monday that any attack on Iraqi soil violates its sovereignty, stressing the country's determination to end the presence of the U.S.-led coalition.

Al-Sudani made the remarks during his meeting with the Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren, whose country is scheduled to assume the presidency of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mission in Iraq in mid-May, according to a statement issued by al-Sudani's media office.

Al-Sudani stressed his rejection of any attack on Iraqi territory or any violation of its sovereignty, reiterating "the government's commitment to protecting diplomatic missions and advisors working in Iraq, as well as assisting the NATO mission in carrying out its tasks agreed upon with the Iraqi government," the statement said.

Meanwhile, al-Sudani affirmed "the Iraqi government's decision to rearrange the relationship with the international coalition" and move from the presence of foreign forces in Iraq to bilateral relations and cooperation with the coalition countries, according to the statement.

For her part, Ollongren confirmed that the Dutch government agrees with al-Sudani's vision that victory over the terrorist group Islamic State (IS) requires changing the mission of the international coalition and moving it to equal bilateral relations after the development of the Iraqi security forces' capabilities, according to the statement.

She also confirmed that the Netherlands will assume the leadership of the NATO mission in Iraq in the middle of this year and "will work with the Iraqi government to achieve its new vision."

The Netherlands is part of the U.S.-led international coalition tasked with training and advising the Iraqi security forces in their fight against the IS. 
NEW DELHI, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Two children were killed and one person was critically injured Monday in an explosion at a firecracker store in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, police said.

The blast took place at Kailawada village in Muzaffarnagar district, about 617 km northwest of Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.

According to police, some firecrackers inside the store caught fire, triggering the huge explosion.

"The store was housed in a room on the first floor of a house. It is said that a fire in some firecrackers led to the huge explosion in which two children were killed and one person injured," senior police official Satyanarain Prajapati said. "The injured person has been hospitalized."

Police have rushed firefighters to the spot to douse the fire and prevent it from spreading in the neighborhood.

A case has been registered and an investigation ordered into the incident, police said.

"The store had a license and a forensic team is at the spot to ascertain the reasons that led to the fire and subsequent explosion at the store," Prajapati said.

Accidental explosions are common at Indian firecracker factories and shops as owners usually ignore safety standards. 
TEHRAN, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- A massive blast was heard on Monday morning at an industrial park in the central Iranian city of Garmsar, Semnan province, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported.

The source of the blast had not been determined yet, the report said, adding local authorities had sent rescue teams to the industrial park.

According to Mehr, this is the fourth incident in Semnan province's industrial parks and areas over the past few days.

Four people had been killed in the previous incidents. 
LANZHOU, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Northwest China's Gansu Province saw its export of agricultural products up 18.9 percent year on year in 2023, totaling 2.93 billion yuan (about 412 million U.S. dollars), customs authorities said Monday.

Seeds, fresh apples, juice, vegetables and edible fungi were the main agriproducts Gansu exported in 2023, according to the customs authorities in Lanzhou, the provincial capital. Among them, the export of vegetables and edible fungi logged remarkable year-on-year growth of 73.8 percent and 32.9 percent, reaching 350 million yuan and 310 million yuan, respectively.

In 2023, the total value of Gansu's foreign trade was 49.17 billion yuan. Gansu's trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations grew 55 percent year on year to 8.94 billion yuan, while trade with Belt and Road partner countries was 36.66 billion yuan, accounting for 74.6 percent of the total. 
KABUL, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Four survivors of a Russian passenger jet that crashed in north Afghanistan's Badakhshan province on Saturday have been shifted to the national capital of Kabul, said the Afghan caretaker government's chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on Monday.

All the four injured people have received first aid and are in stable condition, Mujahid said on his X account.

A Russian passenger jet reportedly with six on board, including four crew and two passengers, went missing in Afghanistan's airspace on Saturday, and the crashed plane was found in Badakhshan's Kof Ab district on Sunday.

A rescue team of the Afghan administration on Sunday discovered four injured individuals, including the pilot.

In the meantime, an official confirmed that the crashed plane along with four injured crew members were found on Sunday evening and the remaining two were dead in the air crash. 
JAKARTA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Three were killed after two motorcycles collided on a highway in the Indonesian regency of Mamuju in West Sulawesi province on Sunday evening, police told local media on Monday.

The crash took place in Tapalang at around 9:30 p.m. local time, Tapalang Police chief Mino said, adding that the two motorcycle riders were speeding before the collision occurred.

Two people died on the spot, while the other one passed away on the way to the hospital.

Police have evacuated the vehicles and will continue their investigation into the cause of the accident.

Deadly road accidents, often caused by bad road conditions, reckless driving and overloading, are frequently reported in the Southeast Asian country. 
BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a state visit to China from Jan. 23 to 25.

Mirziyoyev, 66, was born on July 24, 1957 in Uzbekistan's Jizzakh region. He graduated from the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agriculture Mechanization Engineers with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1981. He holds a Ph.D. in Technical Sciences.

From 1981 to 1990, he lectured and conducted academic research at the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agriculture Mechanization Engineers.

From 1992 to 1996, he became governor of the Mirzo Ulugbek District in the city of Tashkent. He successively served as governor of the Jizzakh region and governor of the Samarkand region from 1996 to 2003.

In December 2003, he was appointed the country's prime minister and was subsequently re-approved three times for the post in February 2005, January 2010 and February 2015.

In December 2016, he was elected president and was reelected in October 2021 and July 2023.

He is married, and has two daughters and one son. 
Pakistani children dance at a Chinese Lunar New Year gala in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

by Raheela Nazir, Jiang Chao

ISLAMABAD, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- As the mercury falls to single digits in Pakistan's federal capital, Islamabad, making the weather chilly and foggy on Sunday, a hotel hall decorated with traditional Chinese red lanterns was a source of warmth and coziness for people gathered to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Buzzing with slogans of "Long Live Pakistan-China Friendship," the hall was filled with people from both Pakistan and China, including teachers, students, and volunteers.

During the event, a dazzling array of performances, including traditional dances, sitcoms, and Kung Fu, by Pakistani and Chinese children, filled the hearts of the audience with joy, peace, and harmony.

The gala was kicked off by a classical dance, "Flying Swallow," performed by Chinese girl Liu Huijun. "The flying swallows symbolize the return of spring to the earth. I hope to bring New Year blessings to Pakistani friends through this dance," she said.

Donning a glittery golden gown, Sidra Sajjad, an 8-year-old student and dance performer, was all smiles when she was inquired about her dress and performance during the event.

"Today I am wearing my best golden gown to perform a song that highlights the strong and sweet friendship between Pakistan and China ... My Chinese friends have also performed, and the traditional dresses they were wearing truly enticed me," Sajjad told Xinhua.

Sobia Adnan, director of Islamabad China-Pakistan Youth One Heart Step and Cure Home (ICOSH), a China-funded orphanage in Islamabad, where the majority of Pakistani children who joined the gala came from, said that the Chinese New Year celebrations light up the faces of orphans as they are relishing moments of joy and happiness together with their Chinese friends.

"Both cultures of Pakistan and China are humane and beautiful ... The gala can prove that we are the one and forever friends. We are thankful to the Chinese people for being a ray of hope for these underprivileged children in Pakistan," she said.

Shifa Butt, who instructs Pakistani children to perform a dance called "Mother," said that the gratitude expressed by this dance is similar to the Chinese filial piety culture and that both countries' cultures promote positive values.

The dance performed by Pakistani children also moved a Chinese boy, Ma Yusheng, who performed a so-called "Kemusan" dance, the latest internet hit in China, translated as "Subject Three" dance, pushing the gala to a new high.

"I have been rehearsing hard for several days, just hoping to bring you joy today, and my performance is not bad!" he said.

Speaking to Xinhua on the occasion, Asma Munir Salman, a school leader of Great Maple School, Rawalpindi, said that attending such cultural events has always been exciting and exhilarating.

"Both countries' children used music and art to demonstrate the concepts of cultural mutual learning, peace and inclusiveness, which set a good example for the world today ... We are very happy to be here at this event and we all know that culture, music, and arts have no boundaries and borders," she said.

In her school, Salman said many Pakistani students are learning Chinese language, culture and Chinese martial arts, adding that the way children are accepting each other's cultures is heartening as it fosters global understanding and promotes peaceful relations among nations.

Talking to Xinhua, Ma Bin, president of the China-Pak Educational Cultural Institute (CPECI), who organized the event, said the purpose of the party is to let children from both countries share the joy and peace of the Chinese New Year.

"Chinese cultural thought has always advocated cultural equality and inclusiveness. We hope that children from both countries can appreciate each other's culture through mutual exchanges and artistic performances," he said. 

Chinese children perform a sitcom during a Chinese Lunar New Year gala in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

Pakistani children sing songs "Happy New Year" and "Long Live Pakistan-China Friendship" in two languages at a Chinese Lunar New Year gala in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)
Press Release

January 20, 2024 Bong Go joins Super Health Center turnover ceremony in Kiamba, Sarangani, as he pursues healthcare accessibility at the grassroots level Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, attended the turnover ceremony for the Super Health Center in Barangay Lagundi, Kiamba, Sarangani, on Wednesday, January 17, as he underscored his commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility at the grassroots level. "Patuloy po akong tutulong sa pagpaparami ng Super Health Centers sa bansa sa abot po ng aking makakaya. Sa mga itinayo ng Super Health Centers, nakita namin kung gaano kalaki ang naitutulong nito sa komunidad lalo na sa rural areas," Go said during the event. "It is a significant step towards enhanced healthcare services. Yun po ang layunin ng mga Super Health Centers, ang ilapit sa mamamayan ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno," he added. Through the collective initiative of Go, Department of Health (DOH) led by Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, local government units, and fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds have been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. There will also be an addition of 132 Super Health Centers funded in 2024. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where the Super Health Centers will be constructed. In Sarangani, necessary funds have also been allocated to construct other Super Health Centers in at least six strategic locations. The Super Health Center is an enhanced version of a rural health unit, offering essential health services such as database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation areas, diagnostic services (including laboratory tests, x-rays, and ultrasounds), pharmacy services, and ambulatory surgical units. Additionally, these centers provide services such as eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, enabling remote patient diagnosis and treatment. Last July, Go personally inspected the Super Health Center in Malungon, Sarangani. Go also acknowledged Vice Governor Elmer De Peralta, Mayor George Falgui, Vice Mayor Marie Jess Ancheta, and Board Member Irish Arnado in his speech for their efforts in uplifting their community. Members of the Sangguniang Bayan and various barangay captains were in attendance as well. Go's Malasakit Team also provided foodpacks and other forms of aid to barangay health workers and some of the residents present. Go emphasized the presence of a Malasakit Center at the Dr. Jorge P. Royeca Hospital in nearby General Santos City to further improve healthcare accessibility, which is equipped to provide medical-related support to patients in need. The Malasakit Center is designed to provide Filipinos convenient access to medical assistance programs offered by DOH, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. According to the DOH, 159 active Malasakit centers nationwide have aided around ten million Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act. "Huwag n'yo nang tagalan, pa-checkup na kaagad kayo sa ospital at huwag n'yo na hong alalahanin ang babayaran ninyo sa ospital. Tutulungan ho namin kayo. Ang importante po ay masalba lang natin ang buhay ng bawat isa," urged Go. Lastly, the senator is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of the recently enacted RA 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, further supported the development in the province in the concretion of the NHW junction Lebe-Tablao-Sipling-Banawag, NHW Luan-Ticulab-Cafe and Malalag-Batian provincial roads; construction of a multipurpose building for the public terminal; and construction of a lined canal in Brgy. Malalag in Maitum.
ADDIS ABABA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed Sunday afternoon when an out-of-control truck veered off the road and hit bystanders in Ethiopia's central Oromia region, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate (FBC) reported, quoted local officials.

Five others were injured in the accident, the FBC reported late Sunday.

Authorities are still trying to establish what caused the driver of the dry freight truck to lose control of the vehicle.

Although Ethiopia has one of the lowest per capita car ownership rates in the world, deadly traffic accidents are relatively common. The blame is often put on bad roads, reckless driving, lax enforcement of safety rules, and a flawed system for issuing driving licenses. 
KIEV, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that he is submitting to parliament a draft law that would allow multiple citizenship in Ukraine, the presidential press service reported.

The law will allow all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to have Ukrainian citizenship, except for citizens of Russia, Zelensky said in an address to the nation marking the Day of Unity.

If adopted, the new legislation would enable those who left Ukraine to emigrate to restore their Ukrainian citizenship.

It would also pave the way for foreign volunteers who are fighting on the Ukrainian side during the conflict with Russia to obtain Ukrainian citizenship.

Currently, the Ukrainian Constitution allows only single citizenship. 
BRUSSELS, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 9,000 people, according to the police, participated in a march in Brussels on Sunday, demanding concrete measures from Belgium to establish an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and ensure justice for the Palestinian people.

As the current president of the Council of the European Union (EU), Belgium is called upon to play a central role in promoting a fair solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On Monday, the EU Foreign Affairs Council will discuss the situation in the Middle East in Brussels. The 27 EU foreign ministers will meet with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz before separate talks with the top diplomat of the Palestinian Authority, Riyad al-Maliki.

The mobilization on this Sunday was initiated by a diverse coalition of Belgian civil society organizations, including major NGOs. The organizers, advocating for peace, warned against any promotion of war crimes, attacks on civilians, anti-Semitism, or racism.

According to the organizers, in the past three months, over 24,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children have lost their lives. Nearly 1.9 million people have been forcibly displaced, and a significant portion of civil infrastructure has been completely destroyed. 
This file photo taken on June 9, 2010 shows French theater director Patrick Sommier receiving Beijing Great Wall Friendship Award from Beijing municipal government. (Xinhua)

PARIS, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- French theater director Patrick Sommier has been devoted to passing on the true meaning of Chinese operas which, according to him, are the assembly of all art forms, to the French public.

On the occasion of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France in 2004, Sommier was invited to collaborate on a joint project with the Beijing Vocational College of Opera and Arts (BVCOA) to perform Beijing Opera in France.

Sommier told Xinhua that when he arrived in China, like many others in Europe, he listed "plenty of cliches about Chinese opera: magnificent costumes, multicolored make-up, extraordinary acrobatic movements..."

Unexpectedly, the beauty of Beijing Opera "quickly" captured his heart, he said. Recalling his collaboration with the BVCOA, for the first time, Sommier was impressed by the vigor of the actor hidden behind the make-up and costumes, and the characters of incredible strength from the Chinese classics that evoked thoughts of the Greek tragedy genre.

He was also touched by the Chinese professors who passed their know-how to their students by acting together with them, which is different from how the French did in the theater world, he added. "In China, opera is an art requiring lifelong devotion and actors are the embodiment of the opera."

Since then, Sommier started delving into various performance forms and advocated introducing traditional Chinese operas to French audiences.

Following Sommier's suggestion, the BVCOA in 2005 staged innovative performances whose first half featured professors and students collaborating on stage without make-up or costumes, while the second half showcased students performing classics like "Farewell My Concubine" in a traditional manner.

The performances drew a total of over 22,000 spectators, and over 7,000 French students participated in the workshops on Chinese opera make-up and body gestures.

Expressing his hope that the audience truly understands the beauty of Beijing Opera instead of just watching it with a "tourist gaze" focusing on the exoticism of the art, Sommier said: "Theater is not a product to consume, but a real cultural meeting and an approach towards what we do not know. Apart from pleasures, it should intrigue people to make a bit of effort to understand unfamiliar things."

In 2010, Sommier extended his cooperation with the BVCOA and brought the newly created version of the Chinese classic "Water Margin" to the stage.

Over the years, Sommier has continued to discover and promote different Chinese operas. In the southeastern Chinese city of Quanzhou in Fujian Province, he was fascinated by Liyuan Opera, which he said was "the best ever seen" by him.

In 2014, on the occasion of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic ties, he brought Liyuan Opera to Paris and many other European cities on tour.

Last year, Sommier published his book "Ximi," which means "Theater Enthusiast" in English, dedicating a significant portion of it to recounting his experiences with Chinese operas.

Noting that "theater constitutes another step" toward the Chinese culture and "the image of China is underrepresented in the world," he said, "The differences between Chinese operas and French theater enrich the public's view and thus enrich the image of a country."

The year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, and also the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. Numerous bilateral cultural events, including theater shows, are scheduled for the two peoples.

Having served as a cultural courier between the two countries for two decades, Sommier hopes that the French and Chinese will mutually impress each other with high-quality shows. 

This file photo taken on Jan. 25, 2010 shows French theater director Patrick Sommier posing for photos with members of Beijing Vocational College of Opera and Arts (BVCOA) in front of the MC93 theater in Bobigny, France. (Xinhua)
YAOUNDE, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Many children are feared dead in a stampede on Monday in a school in Yaounde, the capital city of Cameroon, according to local police.

The tragedy occurred at about 7:00 a.m. local time at a government school, and several students told Xinhua that over a dozen students died in the stampede and many others were injured, some in critical condition.

It is not yet clear what caused the stampede. 
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Sunday dropped out of the 2024 presidential race just two days before the New Hampshire primary, and endorsed former President Donald Trump.

"We don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

In the video, DeSantis said he was endorsing Trump because it had "become clear" that "a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance."

DeSantis' announcement came just a few days after 30-percentage-point loss to Trump in the Iowa caucuses. Trump was leading with 51 percent, and DeSantis came in second with 21 percent. 
MONROVIA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- The inauguration speech of Liberian President Joseph Nyumah Boakai was halted on Monday as the newly sworn-in leader suffered heat exhaustion at the ceremony held in the national capital of Monrovia, local media reported.

Boakai had been delivering his inaugural address, which had already exceeded 30 minutes, when he began to show signs of distress. The temperature Monday afternoon at the Capitol Building in Monrovia, the venue of the presidential inauguration, was 29 degrees Celsius.

The 79-year-old Boakai appeared fatigued and unsteady on his feet while reading his inauguration speech, local online newspaper Front Page Africa reported. Concerned aides and presidential security guards rushed to his aid when he faltered during the speech.

Meanwhile, the new Liberian leader took the oath of office at noon in a colorful inauguration ceremony attended by several foreign leaders and diplomatic delegations.

Dressed in traditional Liberian attire, Boakai expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Liberian people and outlined his vision for the nation's future. He stressed the importance of national unity, reconciliation, and economic development.

"We will bestow inclusive governance as our watchword," he said, emphasizing his "rescue mission" for the West African country.

Boakai also said his administration will focus on the "national reconstruction and renewal" of Liberia.

Before his successful bid for the presidency, he served as vice president from 2006 to 2018 under the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa's first elected woman president. 
People check the rubble of a building, demolished by Israeli forces, in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

JERUSALEM, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Citing Egyptian officials, a report on Sunday by the Wall Street Journal said the mediators have proposed a 90-day plan for the ceasefire. In the first phase, the fighting will stop, and Hamas will release all Israeli civilian hostages, while Israel releases Palestinian prisoners and increases aid. The plan also includes the rebuilding of Gaza and talks for a permanent ceasefire and the relaunch of a process to establish a Palestinian state.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war.

"As prime minister of Israel, I have strongly upheld this position in the face of great international and domestic pressure," he said. "As long as I am prime minister, I will continue to strongly insist on this," he added.

He said that Palestinian statehood would pose "an existential danger" to Israel, without elaborating on the reasons.

The remarks were an outright public rejection of calls for Palestinian sovereignty following talks with U.S. President Joe Biden on post-war Gaza. Netanyahu said he talked with Biden on the phone over the weekend and "emphasized our determination to achieve all the goals of the war," including the elimination of Hamas.

Netanyahu rejected Hamas' demand for an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza as prerequisites for releasing about 130 hostages still held in Gaza. "If we agree to that, our fighters have fallen in vain, and we couldn't guarantee the security of our citizens," he said.

After a flight over Gaza, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant stated that the operation in Khan Younis, previously considered a safe zone, "will soon expand. Smoke will continue to cover Gaza's skies until our goals are achieved -- the collapse of Hamas and the return of hostages."

On Sunday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released footage of a kilometer-long, booby-trapped tunnel it uncovered in Khan Younis, showing narrow rooms with metal bar doors, where, according to the army, hostages were held. No hostages were found. The army said that ground, air, and naval forces have continued to strike across Gaza. A soldier was killed in fighting in the southern Gaza Strip.

According to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, a total of 178 Palestinians were killed over the past day, making it one of the deadliest days of the conflict.

At least 25,105 Palestinians, mostly women, children, and the elderly, have been killed by the Israeli strikes since Oct. 7, and 62,681 others were injured in the enclave, the ministry said in an update. 

A building is demolished by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

A building is demolished by Israeli forces in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

People check the rubble of a building, demolished by Israeli forces, in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Israeli military vehicles are seen in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

People check the rubble of a building, demolished by Israeli forces, in the West Bank city of Hebron, Jan. 21, 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave.

Netanyahu rejected the key elements of the plan, including the prospect of establishing a Palestinian state. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said in a video address to the nation, referring to the West Bank, a territory Israel captured along with the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Israeli troops are seen near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)

Smoke rises from damaged buildings in the Gaza Strip as seen from southern Israel, on Jan. 21, 2024. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a proposal of a ceasefire deal reportedly being advanced by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, while the Israeli army continued to pound the Palestinian enclave. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua)
SYDNEY, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Sydney Airport saw 3.58 million passengers passing through the terminals in December 2023, up 15.8 percent from the passenger traffic in same month of 2022, said an airport report.

The figure represents the strongest monthly passenger traffic since 2019 and a 90.6 percent recovery of the passenger traffic compared to December 2019, the airport said in a report released on Monday.

The airport's international terminal scored 1.5 million passengers in December 2023, an increase of 29.4 percent from December 2022 and representing a 93.3-percent recovery compared to December 2019.

Meanwhile, domestic and regional passenger traffic was up 7.6 percent in December 2023 from a year ago to reach 2.08 million.

Top 10 nationalities traveling through Sydney Airport in December 2023 included Australia, China, New Zealand, the United States, Britain, India and South Korea.

For the whole year of 2023, Sydney Airport recorded more than 38.65 million passenger traffic, jumping 32.7 percent from that in 2022 but still 13 percent less than the annual record of 44.4 million set in 2019.

By the end of 2023, international passenger volumes have almost fully recovered, and the airport experienced one of the strongest China recoveries of any international airport globally with nine airlines flying 89 return-services weekly to the Chinese mainland, said Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton.

The airport also saw extra international capacity translate into strong passenger volumes in the India and South Korea markets in 2023, he added.

"We look forward to growing extra seat capacity and securing new services in 2024 and further cementing our position as Australia's gateway," he noted. 
CAIRO, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- The Arab League (AL) on Monday urged the United States to stop supporting the Israeli aggression against the Palestinians and to adopt a stance coherent with international humanitarian law.

It urged the United States to adopt a stance that leads to a full and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and to pressure Israel to stop its aggression and siege on the strip, read the resolution passed at the bloc's emergency meeting on Palestine held Monday at its headquarters in Cairo.

The AL also warned against what it called "Israeli plans" to push the nearly 2 million internally displaced Palestinians in Gaza towards the border with Egypt.

The pan-Arab body demanded the swift implementation of Security Council Resolution 2720 adopted in December 2023 and urgent steps to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza in a safe and unobstructed way.

Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive in Gaza to retaliate against a surprise attack by Hamas, the ruler of the enclave, on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, when about 1,200 people were killed, according to Israeli tallies.

So far, the Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza has risen to 25,295, the Gaza-based Health Ministry said on Monday. 
Press Release

January 22, 2024 The continuing fight of a biliary atresia patient aided by FPRRD, Bong Go, and Malasakit Centers Senator Christopher "Bong" Go championed the ongoing support provided by the Malasakit Centers initiative that has been a source of aid for many Filipino families. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography and principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, Go continues to monitor the implementation of the law to ensure that poor and indigent patients get the medical assistance they need from government. One such case is that of a young liver transplant recipient, Yazumi Viray, whose journey has been significantly influenced by the efforts of Go and former president Rodrigo Duterte in ensuring the patient gets the treatment and assistance she needs. During the Duterte administration, the government stepped in to assist with the crucial liver transplant Yazumi needed in India in 2020, an important moment in her battle with biliary atresia. Their efforts were not just a one-time intervention but have been a continuous source of support, ensuring Yazumi's health and well-being through the Malasakit Centers. In an interview with Edelyn Mansanis Viray, Yazumi's mother, she offered an insight into how these centers have become a vital part of their lives. Edelyn, in a detailed recount of her daughter's health journey, described the challenges they faced since Yazumi's diagnosis with biliary atresia at four months old. Following a costly liver transplant in 2017, the family's financial and emotional struggles were compounded when Yazumi began to experience complications. "Nagre-reject na 'yung liver niya," Edelyn explained, highlighting the precarious nature of her daughter's health and the constant need for medical attention and medication. Her introduction to the Malasakit Center at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) in Quezon City marked a significant turning point for the Viray family, coming after the vital intervention by Duterte and Go in 2020. Their efforts were instrumental in facilitating Yazumi's liver transplant in India, a critical procedure that set the course for her improved health. Alongside this, the Malasakit Center provided substantial and consistent support, as Edelyn recalled, "Malasakit Center po 'yung nakatulong po sa amin para lahat po ng hospital bill po namin maging zero balance po." Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. As of now, 159 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to around ten million Filipinos. Now, years after her liver transplant, Yazumi's life reflects the ongoing success of this vital healthcare support given by the government to poor and indigent patients which was pioneered by Go. Her vibrant health today is a testament to the long-term commitment of the Malasakit Centers to providing medical assistance for maintenance and care for patients like her. Reflecting on the support from Go and the Malasakit Center, Edelyn expressed her gratitude, "Maraming salamat po sa pagsuporta n'yo sa medicine, sa hospital, sa walang sawa po pagtulong n'yo sa amin." Six-year-old Yazumi, having met Go personally, also shared her appreciation, "Thank you po sa pagbigay ninyo sa akin ng pambili ng gamot." She said that her aspirations to become a doctor or an actress stem from her own experiences, aspiring to help others like herself and find joy beyond the hospital walls. Edelyn also spoke of her other child, facing surgery for an anorectal malformation, underlining the ongoing healthcare challenges her family endures. Through these tribulations, the Malasakit Center has also been a source of support, lessening the financial burden and providing much-needed assistance. The Malasakit Center, a brainchild of Go, is designed to streamline access to medical and financial assistance from various government agencies, making it easier for Filipinos to avail of healthcare services. This initiative reflects a significant stride in the government's effort to bring healthcare closer to the people, especially those in dire need. "Lapitan n'yo lang po ang Malasakit Center. Para po 'yan sa Pilipino," Go stated, emphasizing the center's role in serving the Filipino people with dignity and compassion. Yazumi's story is a testament to the impact of these centers on the lives of ordinary Filipinos. It underscores the importance of continued support and expansion of such initiatives to ensure that more families like the Virays can access the healthcare they desperately need.
ABUJA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- At least 16 people were killed when a commercial bus lost control and plunged into a ditch on the Kano-Kaduna expressway in Nigeria's northern state of Kaduna, the traffic police said on Monday.

Speaking with Xinhua on the phone, Kabir Nadabo, a commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Kaduna, said that four others were injured in the incident, which occurred on Sunday.

The incident was caused by overspeeding, as the driver lost control of the vehicle, Nadabo said, citing an investigation by the traffic police. He added that the injured were rushed to a government hospital.

Nadabo warned motorists against violating road safety guidelines and urged other road users, particularly commuters, to always caution commercial vehicle drivers against overspeeding.

Deadly road accidents are frequently reported in Nigeria, often caused by overloading, bad road conditions, and reckless driving. 
RABAT, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Morocco and Mauritania agreed to enhance cooperation after their foreign ministers met Monday here in the Moroccan capital.

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita said Mauritania is a key partner in his country's initiative to improve the Sahel countries' access to the Atlantic Ocean, according to Morocco's official news agency MAP.

The initiative, proposed by Moroccan King Mohammed VI in November last year, aims to upgrade the infrastructure and connectivity of the Sahel region. Of the Sahel countries, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, and Niger have agreed to enhance cooperation by focusing on the initiative.

Bourita praised the "special and long-standing" relations between Morocco and Mauritania based on geography, kinship and neighborliness. He said Morocco is Mauritania's top trading partner and investor in Africa.

For his part, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, Mauritania's minister of foreign affairs, cooperation and Mauritanians abroad, said the two countries have a "promising" future and share strong ties of blood and religion.

Morocco has been seeking to boost its influence and cooperation in the Sahel region, a semiarid region of western and north-central Africa that faces challenges such as poverty, development and climate change. 
BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan-China relations are experiencing a historic high, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has said in an article ahead of his state visit to China, scheduled from Tuesday to Thursday.

"Every time I visit China, I sincerely admire the scale of the reforms taking place here, the accomplishments, creative strength, diligence, and talent of the Chinese people, who are confidently pursuing the path of modernization to realize their centuries-old dream," Mirziyoyev wrote in the article published in the People's Daily on Monday.

He is impressed by China's role on the global stage. "Today, China holds leading positions in world politics and governance as a responsible participant in key international processes," he said in the article.

"President Xi Jinping's global initiatives in development, security, and inter-civilizational dialogue are significantly contributing to addressing common global challenges and accelerating the transition to a more sustainable and inclusive future," he said.

China "takes a big part to support the economic growth of developing countries by expanding trade and investment cooperation, as well as implementing infrastructure connectivity projects," read the article.

The Uzbek president said that "Uzbekistan, as a friendly neighbor and comprehensive strategic partner of China, is sincerely pleased with the successes," adding that "the development of multifaceted relations with China has been, and remains one of the main priorities of Uzbekistan's foreign policy."

"Over the past three decades, thanks to the trustful dialogue at the top-level, and regular summits of the heads of state, the interaction between our two countries has been expanding even more, reaching new historical heights," Mirziyoyev said.

In the article, he made a five-point proposal to "develop a new long-term agenda and forward-looking programs for the implementation of the key tasks of multidimensional cooperation for decades to come."

Calling for strengthening global inter-civilizational dialogue, Mirziyoyev said "nothing should prevent its development, the creation of the necessary conditions for strengthening peace and stability and seeking mutually acceptable compromises on the most pressing issues."

Meanwhile, he expressed interest in taking bilateral relations to "a qualitatively new and higher level."

"It is vital to maintain and build a dynamic pace of all-round trade and economic development, given the increasing range of new challenges to sustainable development such as the worsening energy, food, and environmental crises," said the president.

Mirziyoyev also called for "joint work to ensure the development of transport and logistics infrastructure" as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

"The importance of the role of people-to-people diplomacy in strengthening Uzbek-Chinese friendship is now becoming more evident," he said. 
BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to continue to play a positive and constructive role in improving the relations between Iran and Pakistan based on the needs of the two countries, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

In response to a query regarding China's mediation between Iran and Pakistan, spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a daily news briefing that China maintains close communication with Iran and Pakistan.

Iran and Pakistan are friendly neighbors and both are good friends of China, Wang said.

"China is committed to upholding regional and international peace and stability and supports Iran and Pakistan in continuing to bridge differences through dialogue and consultation," said the spokesperson.

"We would like to continue to play a positive and constructive role in improving the relations between Iran and Pakistan based on the needs of the two countries," he added. 
DAR ES SALAAM, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Monday directed the army to ensure that the forthcoming elections were conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.

Addressing the Tanzania People's Defense Force army commanders in Tanzania's commercial hub of Dar es Salaam, Hassan said the army should be prepared for any challenges that may arise during the forthcoming elections.

Tanzania will hold local government elections later this year to elect leaders at the grassroots level, and the general election in October 2025 to elect the president, members of parliament, and councilors.

Hassan, who doubles as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, said since elections involved many political parties that harbored different intentions, it was only sensible for the military to remain vigilant.

However, Hassan noted her remarks didn't mean that the elections would indeed be chaotic, adding that it was during elections that the need to foster security became even more important. 
SANAA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi group on Monday said it has carried out a strike on the American military cargo ship OCEAN JAZZ in the Gulf of Aden, claiming to have used sea-based missiles.

In a statement broadcast by the group's al-Masirah TV, its military spokesman Yahya Sarea said the group "affirms that retaliation against American and British attacks is inevitable, and any new aggression will not go unpunished."

The Houthis reaffirmed that they would keep "imposing a blockade on Israel-linked ships, preventing them from transiting the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea until a ceasefire in Gaza is achieved with the siege lifted," said the statement. 
SANAA, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Violent explosions rocked Sanaa, Yemen's capital, on Monday evening, local residents told Xinhua.

The Houthi group, which controls the city, said in a statement that the city and several other provinces in Yemen were hit by "American and British airstrikes." 
KIGALI, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Rwandan authorities on Monday announced significant reforms to the laws governing the lives of prisoners in an effort to alleviate overcrowding and better prepare inmates nearing release for successful reintegration into society.

Rwandan Minister of Interior Alfred Gasana told public broadcaster, Rwanda Television, that the reforms seek to improve living conditions of prisoners at Rwanda Correctional Facilities (RCS) while helping address congestion issues.

"As part of these reforms, soon-to-be-released prisoners will be placed in designated centers, allowing them to receive family visits. Those sentenced to national service will fulfill their duties within their communities," he said.

Gasana emphasized that these centers will offer courses aimed at transforming prisoners' attitudes and equipping them with skills to reintegrate into society after completing their sentences.

The inaugural center has already opened in the capital Kigali, with a capacity of accommodating 2,800 people. Authorities have announced plans to establish additional centers in the future, with an increased overall capacity, according to him.

Statistics from RCS reveal a total of 89,034 inmates across the 13 correctional facilities in the country.

The past two years have been characterized by a series of strategies implemented by the government to decrease the prison population. One such measure involves an increased utilization of release on parole.

Release on parole entails the conditional release of a convict before their sentence expires, contingent upon a commitment to good behavior.

In 2022, a total of 2,617 inmates were granted release on parole and presidential pardon. This year, a notable number, 381 individuals, have already benefited from the same measure. 
BARCELONA, Spain, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- An expanding middle class in China and domestic demand growth could provide business opportunities for European companies, an economist at Barcelona University told Xinhua on Monday.

"If we're wary of customs duties and the difficulties of growing through exports, one option is to produce and sell in China, especially as we can expect an increase in domestic demand in China, but to do that we need to generate confidence in our products among the Chinese," associate professor of economics Sergi Basco said.

Meanwhile, Basco emphasized that if China boosts confidence abroad, it will lead to a rise in external demand. This will not only benefit Chinese companies but also European consumers, he said.

"It's in everyone's interest, including Europeans, to have access to cheap products that are also high quality, for example, electric cars of good quality that are also well priced," he said.

Commenting on recent data showing that China's economy outperformed forecasts and grew by 5.2 percent in 2023, the professor said that "what's really important is to ensure that economic growth is stable in the next five to ten years."

According to Basco, generating confidence among Chinese consumers is a top priority. "Once they start consuming more and there's more internal demand, then foreign companies will see that market and go there."

"It's not about European companies going to China to generate demand, but rather once they see there is demand then they go there," added the professor. 
This photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows the signing ceremony of a promotion event for the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A team of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) held a promotion event here on Monday, attracting more than 200 enterprises and institutions from China and Malaysia.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- A team of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) held a promotion event here on Monday, attracting more than 200 enterprises and institutions from China and Malaysia.

In his remarks at the event, Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong said that CIIE provides a platform for Malaysian entrepreneurs to engage with Chinese businesses, facilitating trade relations and benefiting both nations.

"The key point is to encourage substantive cooperation, assist mutual understanding through exhibitions and expos, and foster an understanding of each other's regulations," said Liew.

Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing spoke highly of bilateral economic and trade relations, noting that China has been the largest trading partner of Malaysia for 15 consecutive years. He hopes that Malaysian enterprises will make full use of the CIIE for deepening friendship and cooperation with China.

According to Sun Chenghai, deputy director of the CIIE Bureau, an exhibition area of over 140,000 square meters has been booked by now. He stressed that Malaysian enterprises are welcomed to the event to promote their quality products, technology and services to China and even global market through the CIIE.

Malaysia has participated in the CIIE for six years and was one of guest countries of honor of the second CIIE. At the promotion event, the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia signed for the reservation of an exhibition area of 500 square meters, larger than that of the sixth CIIE.

The seventh CIIE will be held in Shanghai in November 2024. 

This photo taken on Jan. 22, 2024 shows a promotion event for the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A team of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) held a promotion event here on Monday, attracting more than 200 enterprises and institutions from China and Malaysia.(Xinhua/Cheng Yiheng)
The USAID representative office in Georgia has responded to the statement made by the Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili.In the statement distributed by First Channel, the organization wrote that the US government, through USAID, is collaborating with numerous organizations for the benefit of Georgia to promote tolerance.According to the USAID representative in Georgia, they maintain constant, open, and transparent communication with the Georgian government."The US government, via USAID, collaborates with numerous organizations to promote tolerance and benefit Georgia. We maintain constant, open, and transparent communication with the Georgian government concerning how our programs contribute to supporting Georgia's Euro-Atlantic aspirations," the organization stated.The visit of the delegation from the ruling party to the People's Republic of China, led by the chairman of Georgian Dream, Irakli Kobakhidze was concluded on January 20."Today, we concluded our visit to China, having had very fruitful meetings with the leadership of the ruling party's foreign team, the minister, the deputy minister, the deputy minister of trade, the deputy chairman of the National People's Congress, and the leadership of the city of Shanghai.The potential is huge. Our desire and goal is to deepen cooperation with China at different levels and in different directions. A strategic partnership agreement was signed last year, which creates a very good basis for deepening the partnership in absolutely all areas. Of course, political cooperation is important, we have a special potential in the field of economy, we should use this potential as much as possible," said Kobakhidze.
Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspects the affected area, learns about the rescue progress, and studies the arrangements for rescue force at the landslide site in Liangshui Village, Tangfang Town in the city of Zhaotong, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 22, 2024. Zhang Guoqing has led a working group to rush to southwestern Yunnan Province after a landslide struck a local village early on Monday, calling for all-out efforts in search and rescue of the missing people. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

KUNMING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has led a working group to rush to southwestern Yunnan Province after a landslide struck a local village early on Monday, calling for all-out efforts in search and rescue of the missing people.

The landslide hit Liangshui Village in the city of Zhaotong, at approximately 6 a.m. Monday, burying 47 people. Seven people have been confirmed dead as of 6:30 p.m., local authorities said. Rescuers were in a race against time to search for the missing people.

Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected the affected area, learned about the rescue progress, and studied the arrangements for rescue force on site.

He went to a hospital and relocation sites to visit the injured and people who had been relocated.

Stressing the complexity of the terrain and potential landslide risks, Zhang underscored the need to fully leverage professional rescue equipment and advanced monitoring equipment, to accelerate the progress of the search and rescue.

He also called for non-stop monitoring and early warning on surrounding mountains to guard against the occurrence of potential secondary disaster during the rescue. 

Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, visits injured people at a hospital in Zhenxiong County of Zhaotong City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 22, 2024. Zhang Guoqing has led a working group to rush to southwestern Yunnan Province after a landslide struck a local village early on Monday, calling for all-out efforts in search and rescue of the missing people. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
A child is vaccinated at a healthcare center in Douala, Cameroon, Jan. 22, 2024.

Cameroon started vaccinating children against malaria for the first time on Monday in an effort to contain the raging pandemic. (Photo by Paul Ikome/Xinhua)

YAOUNDE, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Cameroon started vaccinating children against malaria for the first time on Monday in an effort to contain the raging pandemic.

The Public Health Ministry of the country announced that the vaccine will be offered in both public and private health facilities across 42 health districts.

In the commercial hub of Douala, vaccination started at 8:00 a.m. (0700 GMT). At Angels Clinic in Douala, Aristide Ndenan was among the first parents to bring his six-month-old daughter for vaccination. "I am relieved that my daughter has been vaccinated. I hope that this vaccination will help my child a lot," Ndenan told Xinhua.

"The vaccine is intended as a complementary tool to other tried-and-tested effective malaria prevention and control measures," public health official Leonard Ewane said. Malaria, a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite, is responsible for 70 percent of deaths among children in Cameroon, according to the country's health ministry.

Cameroon took delivery in November last year of more than 300,000 doses of RTS,S -- the first malaria vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Since 2019, more than two million children have been jabbed in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi in a pilot phase, resulting in substantial reductions in severe malaria illness and hospitalizations.

According to the WHO, globally in 2022, there were an estimated 249 million malaria cases and 608,000 malaria deaths in 85 countries. And Africa was home to 94 percent of malaria cases and 95 percent of malaria deaths. Children under five accounted for about 80 percent of all malaria deaths in the region. 

A child is vaccinated at a healthcare center in Douala, Cameroon, Jan. 22, 2024.

Cameroon started vaccinating children against malaria for the first time on Monday in an effort to contain the raging pandemic. (Photo by Paul Ikome/Xinhua)
DAR ES SALAAM, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Heavy rains beginning on Saturday night brought transport and businesses to a standstill in parts of Tanzania, including the commercial hub of Dar es Salaam.

In Dar es Salaam, transport came to a standstill as the main road connecting the eastern suburbs to the commercial city of Dar es Salaam was flooded for hours. Several other ravines criss-crossing the commercial hub of over 5 million people were also flooded, cutting off communication.

Police cordoned off the Jangwani area after the Msimbazi River was over-flooded, halting operations of Dar es Salaam Rapid Transport, the commercial hub's leading public transporter.

Flash floods submerged houses in some parts of the commercial hub as Albert Chalamila, the Dar es Salaam regional commissioner, urged residents in the valley and along riverbanks to relocate to higher grounds to avoid catastrophic consequences.

No casualties were reported by Sunday afternoon, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) told Xinhua over the phone, adding that the TMA will continue monitoring the weather trends in the country and provide feedback when necessary.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Sunday directed relevant authorities to get prepared to fix damage caused by ongoing rains in different parts of the country. She said ministries responsible for water, energy, and works should get prepared to offer emergency services in areas affected by the rains, urging for more efforts to rehabilitate roads and bridges damaged by the torrential rains across the country.

The TMA on Saturday issued a high alert saying short periods of heavy rains were expected for five consecutive days in some parts of the country. It said in a statement that the rains were expected to cause flooding in transport and businesses, and damage to property and infrastructure in Dar es Salaam, Coast, Tanga, Morogoro, Ruvuma, Njombe, Iringa, Mtwara, Lindi, Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Manyara regions, and Zanzibar. 
YAOUNDE, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed after the terror group, Boko Haram, raided two civilian communities in Cameroon's Far North region, local and security sources said on Sunday.

The militants raided Ldubam Bah village of the region at about 7 p.m. on Saturday, killing four civilians, a security source in the region told Xinhua.

At about 8 p.m. on the same day, the militants attacked Mavoumai village of the region, killing one person and injuring a girl, the source said.

"The bodies were buried early Sunday. Our brave soldiers will hunt them down," the source added.

Local media reported that villagers were fleeing from the villages where the raids were carried out.

Boko Haram has been operating in the region since 2014. 
YAREN, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- In the island nation of Nauru, despite being surrounded by the blue Pacific Ocean, access to fresh water for daily life is a persistent challenge for local residents.

Traditionally, the islanders rely on rainwater collection to meet their water needs. In recent years, global climate change has led to irregular rainfall and rising sea levels, posing more severe challenges for the island's over 10,000 residents.

In Nauru, Liu Xiaowa operates a Chinese restaurant where water is costly. In backyard, there are four huge storage tanks capable of storing 23 cubic meters of water. The tanks are connected to a rainwater collection system on the roof, allowing rainwater to flow through pipes into the tanks on rainy days.

Liu told Xinhua that since last year, rainfall has been scarce. With limited rainwater collection, the restaurant had to purchase water from the island's only desalination plant.

She said that for commercial use, eight cubic meters of water costs nearly 360 Australian dollars (236.6 U.S. dollars), just for three or four days for the restaurant.

For non-commercial use, around six dollars per cubic meter is still high for local residents.

Slim, who works for the desalination plant, Reverse Osmosis Plant, told Xinhua that his monthly water bill accounts for one-tenth of his income.

He has installed a four-cubic-meter tank at home to collect rainwater and store purchased water. Due to high prices, water in the tank is only for drinking, and for washing and bathing, groundwater is pumped.

He said the plant has grappled with limited production and transportation capacity, pointing to private vehicles being rented to deliver water to residents.

Likewise, other Pacific island nations face water supply shortages, worsened by climate change.

Data from the Asia Foundation showed that only about 55 percent of people in Pacific island nations have access to basic drinking water, and climate change is severely affecting the region's limited freshwater resources.

According to a joint study by the governments of Nauru and Australia, since 1950, Nauru's average temperature has been increasing by about 0.15 to 0.25 degrees Celsius per decade, with the surrounding sea surface temperature showing a similar trend. Since 1993, the sea level near Nauru has been rising by approximately five millimeters per year, higher than the global average.

Satyendra Prasad, Fiji's permanent representative to the United Nations, has stated that Pacific island nations are experiencing some of the worst impacts of climate change, with rising sea levels endangering freshwater supplies on some islands, forcing local residents to transport drinking water from other islands.

During a Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting held in November last year, leaders of island nations called for immediate global actions to collectively address challenges posed by climate change.

Keshmeer Makun, a lecturer at the University of the South Pacific based in the Fijian capital Suva, believed that China is a key partner for Pacific island nations in addressing climate change.

The two sides should work together to synergize the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, a roadmap for sustainable development in the Pacific region, Makun said.

"The 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and green development of the BRI are win-win cooperation for both China and the Pacific. In fact, they are making a strong commitment to sustainability and demonstrating their social responsibility for the developing world," the expert said.

China has attached great importance to concerns of Pacific island nations regarding climate change, including establishing a China-Pacific island countries climate change cooperation center, hosting training classes on addressing climate change and green development for Pacific island nations, and providing aid to the nations.

Joanna Olsson, director of government information office of Nauru, looked forward to seeing strengthened cooperation with China in tackling climate change.

She hoped that China could introduce innovative and green technologies and promote the implementation of "small but beautiful" projects to help Nauru overcome its water challenges. 
This photo taken on Jan. 21, 2024 shows a scene after an artillery strike in Donetsk.

Ukrainian forces hit a market in the west of Donetsk with a deadly artillery strike on Sunday, killing at least 27 people and injuring 25 others, local media reported on Monday.

The market was crowded when it was targeted by a barrage of 152-mm caliber and 155-mm caliber shells from the Ukrainian side, Russia's TASS news agency reported, citing local authorities of Donetsk. (Photo by Victor/Xinhua)

MOSCOW, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian forces hit a market in the west of Donetsk with a deadly artillery strike on Sunday, killing at least 27 people and injuring 25 others, local media reported on Monday.

The market was crowded when it was targeted by a barrage of 152-mm caliber and 155-mm caliber shells from the Ukrainian side, Russia's TASS news agency reported, citing local authorities of Donetsk.

Among the injured, 18 were hospitalized, most of them in critical condition, the Ministry of Health of Russia said. Many of the wounded suffered severe injuries, such as penetrating wounds to vital organs and traumatic amputation of limbs.

The Russian Mission to the UN announced that the incident will be discussed at the Security Council meeting on Monday. The Russian Foreign Ministry also plans to raise the issue at the UN events, where Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be present. 
SACRAMENTO, the United States, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- In the wake of recent incidents involving guns on campuses, some U.S. students began their new semester by staging walkouts to protest gun violence -- also a public health crisis which experts said has left persistent mental scars for child victims.

Holding signs of "Children shouldn't die" and "Enough is enough," students from San Francisco's public high schools walked out of their classrooms on Friday afternoon to protest what they said are deficient security measures to prevent gun violence on campuses.

The action was a response to reports of firearms on two San Francisco high school campuses last month. In both cases, no one was hurt, but they renewed calls to beef up security systems in schools.

San Francisco students' protest came less than two weeks after students across Iowa walked out of class to protest "lawmakers' inaction on gun violence."

A crowd of about 300 students, activists, lawmakers, and supporters, chanting "no more silence, end gun violence," rallied at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on Jan. 8.

The Iowa statewide walkout was held following the Jan. 4 deadly shooting at Perry High School, in which a 17-year-old student fatally shot an 11-year-old sixth grader, and wounded seven other people, including the school's principal.

The students said the tragedy at Perry could have been prevented if lawmakers had taken legislative action in the wake of recent school-related shootings in Iowa.

They said they were worried about gun violence in their schools and felt firearms legislation in Iowa has put them in a vulnerable position.

The student protests precede one-year anniversaries of two mass shootings shocking California last January, which killed 11 and 7 people respectively in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay.

U.S. President Joe Biden issued a statement for the two tragedies Sunday, touting his government's efforts in the field of gun control.

"We launched the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, and my administration is implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act -- the most meaningful gun safety legislation in nearly 30 years -- which strengthens background checks, expands the use of red flag laws, improves access to mental health services for students dealing with the trauma of gun violence, and more," the statement said.

However, the United States has still by far the highest rate of gun deaths among wealthy countries. According to a new report by the National Institute for Health Care Management Foundation, more than 42,000 people died from gun-related injuries in 2023.

The year 2023 witnessed a record high in school shootings, outpacing the previous year's record for the third year in a row. Last year, 346 school shootings were recorded by the K-12 School Shooting Database, which tracks gun violence on school grounds.

Just 20 days into this year, the organization has recorded 14 school shootings across the U.S. with 17 victims -- almost half in Iowa.

The rapid increase in school shootings over the past three years has made gun violence the leading cause of death of children and teens in the United States since 2020, when it surpassed car accidents, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation's analysis of the CDC data.

Anonymous tip lines in schools may help catch firearm-related threats by allowing students to report unusual behaviors or potential acts of gun violence to the system, according to a new study published in the journal Pediatrics on Wednesday.

The study examined more than 18,000 tips submitted to the reporting system in North Carolina from 2019 to 2023 and found that 10 percent of tips contained reference to a firearm.

Among the gun-related tips, 38 percent were about potential school shootings and nearly a quarter were about seeing or knowing of a weapon.

The researchers found 50 percent of the time gun-related tips require urgent response, and that is "significantly higher" than for non-gun-related tips.

The aftermath of nonfatal firearm injuries also poses a significant burden on families and the healthcare system and leaves persistent mental scars, according to a study, also recently released in Pediatrics.

The study identified 2,110 children with non-fatal gun injuries and found they had more than a five-fold increased risk for inpatient hospitalization, and they also experienced an increased risk of visits to hospital emergency departments and outpatient clinics.

After hospitalization from a nonfatal firearm injury, previous research shows that 50 percent of youth are discharged with a disability. The researchers said their findings will add to the growing body of research highlighting the significant economic and societal burden of youth firearm injuries. 
WASHINGTON, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Sunday dropped out of the 2024 presidential race just two days before the New Hampshire primary, and endorsed former President Donald Trump.

"We don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a video posted on X, formerly Twitter.

In the video, DeSantis said he was endorsing Trump because it had "become clear" that "a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance."

DeSantis' announcement came just a few days after a 30-percentage-point loss to Trump in the Iowa caucuses. Trump was leading with 51 percent, and DeSantis came in second with 21 percent.

Former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, who just won 19 percent of votes in the Iowa caucuses, looks to build momentum in the New Hampshire primary.

"May the best woman win," Haley said in response to DeSantis's withdrawal at a campaign stop in New Hampshire.

According to a new CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire, Trump holds 50 percent support among likely Republican primary voters in the state, while Haley stands at 39 percent. DeSantis stands at just 6 percent in the poll.

While acknowledging disagreements with Trump, DeSantis 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 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 added.

On Sunday, Trump told local media that he is "very honored" to have DeSantis endorse him for the presidency, adding that he looks forward to working together to beat Biden. 
Description

Retired sea captain from the Merchant Marine, Harold Stumme will discuss ocean currents. During his trans-oceanic voyages, he occasionally dropped notes in a bottle overboard. He was surprised when they returned to his home address and where and when they were found. You will hear about his voyages and the replies he received. No registration required. For additional information, please call the library or visit our website.
Shenzhen TV: This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil. On January 19, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Brazil. Can you share more about the highlights of Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to Brazil and the outcomes and common understandings reached between the two sides at the meetings?

Wang Wenbin: During the past few days, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Brazil and Jamaica upon invitation.

During his visit to Brazil, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Brazilian President Lula da Silva, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin and chief adviser to the President Celso Amorim respectively. He also co-chaired the fourth China-Brazil Foreign Ministerial-Level Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue with Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and jointly met the press. President Lula da Silva noted that since day one after Brazil established diplomatic relations with China, Brazil has publicly supported and adhered to the one-China principle and will stick to this position. Brazil is optimistic about Chinas development prospects, and hopes to draw on Chinas governance experience and enrich cooperation with China. Brazil shares high consensus on many major issues with China, and hopes to work with China to improve global governance and increase the collective strength of developing countries and their say in international affairs. The Brazilian side also noted that they look to hosting the G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro as an opportunity to enhance high-level exchange with China, boost bilateral ties and lead the friendship and cooperation between the two countries to another, more promising 50 years.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi noted that Brazil is the first developing country to establish a strategic partnership with China and the first major Latin American country to elevate the bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Relations with Brazil have always been a priority in Chinas diplomacy, and China firmly supports Brazil in accelerating economic and social development and playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs. China stands ready to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to work with Brazil for another golden 50 years of bilateral ties. During the visit, the two sides reached a number of common understandings:

First, the two sides will jointly implement the important common understandings between the two presidents, enhance strategic mutual trust and keep understanding and supporting each other on issues related to our core interests and major concerns for the benefit of the two peoples. Second, the two sides will continue to advance mutually beneficial cooperation. China and Brazil work together in fields ranging from space to soybean. We will stay committed to the principle of openness, inclusiveness, and mutually beneficial cooperation, better synergize development strategies and elevate bilateral cooperation across the board to a new level. Third, the two sides will jointly strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, enhance the public support of the China-Brazil friendship, offer visa facilitation to each other, and expand mutual interactions. Fourth, the two sides will jointly display the sense of responsibility as major countries and build a community with a shared future for mankind. We will strengthen communication and coordination, uphold the common interests of developing countries, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and build a community with a shared future between China and Brazil, and between China and Latin America.

During his visit to Jamaica, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with and held talks with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith respectively. The Jamaican side said it will stay committed to the one-China principle, put China-Jamaica relations front and center and strive for a robust China-Jamaica strategic partnership. Chinas modernization sets an example of high-quality development. Jamaica admires Chinas remarkable achievements and expects to draw from Chinas successful experience for more efficient and equitable development. Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed that China upholds equality among all countries regardless of their size, greater democracy in international relations and non-interference in any other countrys internal affairs, and will not strive for geopolitical rivalry or force other countries to pick sides. China respects Jamaica for choosing a system and lifestyle with its own characteristics, and supports Jamaica in upholding its sovereign independence and national dignity, and playing a more critical role in regional and international affairs. China expects to better align development strategies, expand cooperation on trade, investment, renewable energy, agriculture, digital economy, blue economy and other fields, and enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges with Jamaica.

Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to six countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean is a continuation of the 34-year tradition of making Africa the Chinese foreign ministers first overseas destination at the start of the year. It reflects that China, a member of the Global South, shares the same future through thick and thin with developing countries. China will stand on the side of justice and equity, and stand with developing countries, especially medium-sized and smaller countries. We will promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, build a community with a shared future for mankind with all countries, and make new contributions to the development and progress of humanity.

Associated Press of Pakistan: After Iran and Pakistan conducted strikes on each others territory last week, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that China is willing to play a constructive role to cool down the situation. I noticed that Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu had a phone call with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani last night, and Vice Minister Sun Weidong is visiting Pakistan. Is China mediating between Iran and Pakistan?

Wang Wenbin: China maintains close communication with Iran and Pakistan. I want to stress that Iran and Pakistan are friendly neighbors and both are good friends of China. China is committed to upholding regional and international peace and stability and supports Iran and Pakistan in continuing to bridge differences through dialogue and consultation. We would like to continue to play a positive and constructive role in improving the relations between Iran and Pakistan based on the needs of the two countries.

China News Service: During the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 last week, the head of Switzerland Tourism said that they can learn from China, Switzerland wants to welcome Chinese visitors and both countries have winter tourism assets to share. Switzerland applying to join the tourism competition became a hot online topic in China. Do you have any comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: I also noted the reports. According to a report issued by the China Tourism Academy, as the second ice and snow season after the Beijing Winter Olympics, the 2023-2024 season is expected to see over 400 million ice and snow tourism trips across China, which will hit a record high, and ice and snow tourism revenue reaching RMB 550 billion. Chinas booming holiday consumption and thriving ice and snow economy provides powerful impetus for the global tourism market and demonstrates the strong vitality of Chinese economy.

As stressed by Premier Li Qiang in his special address at the opening ceremony of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024, China has a supersize market with rapidly unlocked demand. The Chinese market, with its vast space and growing depth, will play an important role in boosting aggregate global demand.

China sees lucid waters and lush mountains as invaluable assets. And winter tourism destinations have become popular around the world. This reflects Chinese tourists growing spending power and demand for tourism. This also shows the conviction and confidence that Chinas economy will navigate through the choppy waters. It is also an opportunity for China, Switzerland and other countries to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation. We will keep exploring and unleashing market demand, provide broader space for boosting global trade and investment, and inject stronger impetus into the global economic recovery.

Nippon Television: According to our report, a group of North Korean IT technicians are doing business in the city of Beijing and earning foreign currency. Some analysts have pointed out that this may be a violation of UN Security Council sanctions. Do you have any comment for that?

Wang Wenbin: I am not aware of that. On implementing Security Council resolutions, China has always fulfilled our international obligations fully and in good faith.

Bloomberg: The recently reelected President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo said in his inaugural address that the details of the royalty for the Sicomines project will be renegotiated. That was discussed when he was here last year and when he met with Chinese leader. Can you confirm the details of this renegotiation of the royalty agreement? And can you give us the details about when that would be paid and how?

Wang Wenbin: I have no information on what you asked about. Id refer you to competent authorities.

Ukrainian News Agency: Last week during the World Economic Forum in Davos, the need for direct dialogue between the leaders of Ukraine and China was mentioned many times. How can you comment on the prospects of such a dialogue, or perhaps negotiations between the two countries foreign ministers?

Wang Wenbin: China and Ukraine maintain smooth channels of communication and exchange views on issues of mutual interest. The two sides will continue to engage in exchanges in light of the needs in bilateral relations.

Reuters: Two US Congress committees dedicated to investigating security threats and risks posed by Beijing are looking into Swiss engineering group called ABB. Theyre looking into ABBs operations in China, particularly about the installation of ABB equipment by Chinese firm, Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), onto ship-to-shore cranes that are bound for the US. These committees are seeking to clarify the relations between these two companies. How does the Ministry respond to this matter and has the Ministry reached out to ZPMC about this matter?

Wang Wenbin: It seems that the paranoia of some US politicians is getting worse.

I would like to ask these politicians: why do they keep blaming Chinese companies for threatening US national security even though they do not have any evidence? Why is it always the industrial champions of China who are being targeted as threats to US national security? Why does the US coerce other countries into banning Chinese companies when these countries do not feel threatened by Chinese products at all?

From accusing Chinese IT manufacturers of leaving backdoor in their products to calling Chinese cranes Trojan horse that collect intelligence, and to blaming China-produced EV cells for harming US national security, some US politicians have been blowing up the bubble of China threat, while exposing their real aim of suppressing Chinas development in the name of national security. For those US politicians, anything advanced from China can be a threat and must be stopped by all means; perhaps shirts and socks are the only type of Chinese exports that do not threaten the US. This is sheer bullying and hegemonism.

These politicians talk about rules and fair competition, but all they do is to break the rules, play foul to kneecap competitors and deprive other countries of their legitimate right to development. These despicable moves should be condemned and rejected by the international community.

CCTV: There are foreign media comments saying that for some time, global talent are reluctant to work and live in Hong Kong, and even show a trend of talent drain. Whats the Foreign Ministrys comment?

Wang Wenbin: Such comments lack factual basis and respect for the fact that Hong Kong remains the hub of global talent. It is quite irresponsible to discredit Hong Kongs freedom and human rights situation, for it is gravely misleading for the public. The reality is that Hong Kongs strong appeal to global talent continues to grow. According to the Hong Kong SAR government, from mid-2022 to mid-2023, the net inflow of Hong Kong residents amounted to 174,000. Theres no so-called talent drain in Hong Kong. From January to November in 2023, the SAR government received more than 200,000 applications under various talent schemes. Among them, over 120,000 applications have been approved and 80,000 talents have arrived in Hong Kong, which far exceeded the annual target of admitting at least 35,000 talents. Besides, the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland released the IMD World Talent Report 2023, which shows that Hong Kong ranks the second in Asia in terms of talent competitiveness. These numbers and facts fully show that Hong Kong remains a popular destination for global talent.

Hong Kong has entered a new stage in which the region has restored order and is set to thrive. People there are living a happy life and enjoying lawful rights and freedom. This has created an unprecedented environment and golden opportunities for both Chinese and foreign talent to live and thrive in Hong Kong. We believe that under One Country, Two Systems, Hong Kongs unique advantage of enjoying the backing of the motherland and being open to the world will be further strengthened. Hong Kong will further expand the progress it is making in economic and social endeavors. The regions appeal to global talent will only grow.

The Central Government of China will as always support the Hong Kong SAR in attracting global talent, building new advantages and welcoming world talent from all sectors to share in Hong Kongs development opportunities and open up a brighter future for Hong Kong.

Global Times: After the Independent National Electoral Commission of Comoros announced on January 16 that incumbent President Azali Assoumani won the first round of presidential election with 62.97 percent of the votes, protests have broken out in multiple places of the country, and the US, the EU and France have issued statements questioning the election result. What is Chinas comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: The presidential election is the internal affair of Comoros. China always upholds the principle of non-interference in other countries internal affairs, and respects the will and choice of the people of Comoros. As a good friend and partner, China would like to see social stability in Comoros and continuity in its domestic and foreign policies, and hopes that relevant parties will express their aspiration through lawful means. The international community should play a constructive role, but not resort to interference. Otherwise it will only be counterproductive.

China stands ready to work with international partners to support Comoros in maintaining social stability and to play a positive role in upholding peace and development in the region.

Bloomberg: You said in your earlier answer about Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to Brazil that China supports Brazil in playing a greater role in regional affairs. Was there any discussion of the new government in Argentina as part of the discussion of Brazils role in Latin American affairs and how can China assist with that?

Wang Wenbin: I just briefed you on Foreign Minister Wang Yis visit to Brazil. Taking this opportunity, Id like to give you more details on China-Argentina relations.

China and Argentina are both major developing countries and important emerging markets, and we are each others comprehensive strategic partners. In recent years, China and Argentina have been advancing Belt and Road cooperation. The two sides signed important cooperation documents, including the memorandum of understanding on the Belt and Road Initiative and cooperation plan. We stand ready to work with Argentina to cement political mutual trust, enhance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, tap on our complementary advantages, deepen equal-footed and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and advance the sustained and steady growth of China-Argentina comprehensive strategic partnership. Meanwhile, China stands ready to work with Argentina to elevate the cooperation between China and Latin America.
In this article, we will look at 20 countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to 5 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World.

The revenue model of the government is based on the tax system. The structure of a countrys tax code is a major player that determines its economic performance. The collection of taxes and fees is an underlying responsibility of the government to generate public revenues that help in financing infrastructure, human capital, and services for citizens and businesses. Individuals whose income falls under the tax brackets have to pay income taxes to the state. Countries with poor tax systems can disrupt their domestic economy and impact economic decision-making. Many countries have recognized the significance of tax systems and have reformed their tax codes.

Global Taxation: An Analysis

Over the past decades, marginal tax rates on individual and corporate incomes have dropped significantly across the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) nations. The United States continues to reduce its personal income tax rates and corporate income tax rates. In 2024, 34 US states will go through significant tax changes. 16 states with income tax cuts in 2024 have previously been covered. Other countries such as France have reduced their corporate income tax rates by several percentage points, as per the Tax Foundation. Portugal has made improvements to its corporate tax base, while Belgium has made its corporate tax base less competitive. Chile, the US, and the UK are phasing out temporary improvements to their corporate tax bases.

The global economies have gone through a massive shift following the COVID-19 pandemic. Inflation, high interest rates, and fiscal pressures have impacted the earnings of individuals globally. This has affected the tax collection for countries. For instance, the total revenue of the US government increased from $4.19 trillion in 2015 to $4.44 trillion in 2023. This is a slight increase and if we consider the revenue increase against inflation, the total revenue has decreased over the last seven years.

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A competitive tax code is important for a thriving economy and a competitive tax code helps in keeping the marginal tax rates low. In todays globalized world, individuals and corporations opt for places where the rate of return is highest and they have to pay the least taxes. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates are considered some of the top places for investment with the lowest income taxes. If a countrys tax rate is too high, it will repel investment elsewhere which could lead to slower economic growth.

According to the Tax Foundations International Tax Competitiveness Index, Estonia attained the top spot in 2023 among the OECD countries for having the best tax code for a straight tenth year. The ranking of the International Tax Competitiveness Index is based on several other taxes including property taxes and cross-border taxes, in addition to personal and corporate income taxes. Estonia is also one of the safest low tax countries to live in for the US citizens. Latvia has the second most competitive tax system and follows an Estonian system for corporate taxation. New Zealand, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Luxembourg, and Turkey, are the next best countries with the most competitive tax systems, having a competitive tax score of 88.5, 86.1, 84.7, 81.2, 78.9, and 78.6, respectively. Estonia, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Luxembourg, and Turkey are some of the top countries with the lowest income tax rates in Europe. Whereas, Finland, Denmark, Austria, Sweden, Aruba, and Belgium are the European countries with the highest income tax rates in the world.

Tax Services Providers

H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB), Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU), and Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) are some of the top tax services providers in the world, offering a wide range of services and online software to help individuals with their taxes and auditing.

H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB) has over 70 years of market experience and is one of the leading tax preparation companies in the world. The company operates in Australia, Canada, the U.S., and Europe. On January 16, H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB) announced the launch of the Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting service by Block Advisors. The US Treasury Departments Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has imposed Beneficial Ownership Information reporting rules that will impact over 32 million business owners. H&R Block, Inc.s (NYSE:HRB) new reporting service will guide business owners regarding the new rules of Beneficial Ownership Information. Chief Strategy and Small Business Officer at H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB), Jamil Khan, said:

Block Advisors introduced its Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting service to help small business owners navigate this new reporting requirement, so they are compliant and avoid costly penalties.

Intuit Inc. (NASDAQ:INTU) is one of the worlds top tax service providers that owns leading tax preparation software including TurboTax, QuickBooks, Credit Karma, and Mailchimp. On December 5, 2023, Intuit Inc.s (NASDAQ:INTU) fintech firm Credit Karma launched new features to its platform, providing online checking and savings solutions for consumers. The company through Credit Karma Money added features such as overdraft coverage, up to five-day early access to government benefits for those who qualify, and providing members with no-fee overdraft protection. Credit Karma is offering this service exclusively to its US consumers.

Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) is a leading international specialty insurance firm that also offers tax-related services. On December 1, 2023, Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) announced the acquisition of AccuRisk Holdings, LLC (AccuRisk), which is headquartered in Chicago. AccuRisk is a medical stop loss managing general underwriter (MGU) founded in 2017. On January 2, Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN) reported that it has appointed Pat Ryan, Jr. to its Board of Directors, effective January 1. For the past 25 years, Pat Ryan, Jr. served on the board of Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE:PAG). William J. Devers has retired from Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc.s (NYSE:RYAN) Board of Directors following the new appointment.

These were a few leading tax service providers in the world. Now, lets take a look at the countries with the lowest income taxes in the world.

20 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World

20 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World

Our Methodology

To list countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world, we have used three metrics including personal income tax rate, corporate income tax rate, and GDP per capita (PPP). The key metric is the personal income tax rate based on which we have ranked the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world. For the countries with similar personal income tax rates, we have ranked them based on their corporate income tax rate. If both the metrics of personal and corporate income tax rates are the same, then we have used the countrys GDP per capita, as of 2024, to rank them - the country with higher GDP per capita is ranked higher on the list. We have taken the personal income tax rate and corporate income tax rate data from the PwC and Trading Economics database, which are updated as of December 2023 or January 2024. The GDP per capita (PPP) data is taken from the International Monetary Funds (IMF) database. Bermuda and Cayman Islands did not have GDP per capita data available on the IMF database, therefore, we have taken their GDP per capita from the World Bank.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using different consensus approaches, 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.

20 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World

20. Kazakhstan

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 20%

GDP Per Capita: $34,480

Kazakhstan is one of the fastest growing economies in Central Asia. The country has a 10% top personal income tax rate and a 20% top corporate income tax rate. With a GDP per capita of $34,480, Kazakhstan ranks among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

19. Romania

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 16%

GDP Per Capita: $43,750

Romania is one of the richest European countries with a GDP per capita of $43,750. The country has a 10% top personal income tax rate and a 16% top corporate income tax rate. Romania is ranked 19th among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

18. Timor-Leste

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $3,710

Timor-Leste is an island country in Southeast Asia. The country has a top-end personal income tax of 10% and a top-end corporate income tax rate of 10%. Timor-Leste ranks among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

17. Paraguay

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $16,270

Paraguay is one of the leading economies in South America having a GDP per capita of $16,270. Paraguays both top personal income tax rate and top corporate income tax rate is 10%. Paraguay is one of the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

16. Kosovo

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $16,760

Officially the Republic of Kosovo has a GDP per capita of $16,760. The country has 10% top personal income and corporate income tax rates, respectively. Kosovo is ranked 16th among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

15. Bosnia and Herzegovina

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $20,730

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe. The countrys top personal income tax rate and the top corporate income tax rates are 10%. With a GDP per capita of $20,730, Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

14. North Macedonia

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $22,580

North Macedonia has a GDP per capita of $22,580. The country has a 10% top-end personal income tax rate and a 10% top-end corporate income tax rate. North Macedonia is one of the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

13. Bulgaria

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $35,850

Bulgaria is one of the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world. The country has a top personal income tax rate of 10% and a top corporate income tax rate of 10%. Bulgarias GDP per capita is $35,850.

12. Turkmenistan

Personal Income Tax Rate: 10%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 8%

GDP Per Capita: $20,550

Turkmenistan is one of the richest economies in Central Asia having a GDP per capita of $20,550. The country has a 10% top personal income tax rate and an 8% top corporate income tax rate. Turkmenistan ranks 12th among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

11. Guatemala

Personal Income Tax Rate: 7%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 25%

GDP Per Capita: $11,000

Guatemala has a top-end personal income tax rate of 7% and a top-end corporate income tax rate of 25%. Guatemalas GDP per capita stands at $11,000. Guatemala is one of the countries with the lowest income taxes in the world.

10. Brunei

Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 55%

GDP Per Capita: $76,860

Brunei has a zero tax on personal income and has a 55% tax rate on corporate income. Brunei has a GDP per capita of $76,860 and ranks among the countries with the lowest income taxes in the world.

9. Saudi Arabia

Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 20%

GDP Per Capita: $71,370

Saudi Arabia is one of the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world. Saudi Arabia is emerging as one of the strongest economies in the Middle East, having a GDP per capita of $71,370. The country has a zero personal income tax rate and a 20% corporate income tax rate.

8. Oman

Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 15%

GDP Per Capita: $40,020

Oman is another Middle Eastern nation that ranks among countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world. Oman has zero taxes on personal income while charging a 15% tax on corporate income.

7. Kuwait

Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 15%

GDP Per Capita: $53,760

Kuwait is a small island country with a strong economy. The country has a zero personal income tax rate and a flat 15% corporate income tax rate. With a GDP per capita of $53,760, Kuwait ranks among the countries with the lowest income taxes in the world.

6. Qatar

Personal Income Tax Rate: 0%

Corporate Income Tax Rate: 10%

GDP Per Capita: $118,150

Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world with a GDP per capita of $118,150. The country has no income tax on personal income and charges a 10% corporate income tax rate. For petroleum companies, the state charges a minimum corporate income tax rate of 35%. Qatar ranks sixth among the countries with the lowest income tax rates in the world.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World.

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Disclosure: None. 20 Countries with the Lowest Income Tax Rates in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
Were not far off a full month into 2024, and the conventional wisdom has settled on two possible paths for the economy this year. Theres the upbeat sentiment that well see a continued economic recovery, and theres the downbeat view that a recession is on the way. No matter what happens, smart stock picking can still bring profits for investors.

A recent note from UBSs Curt Woodworth lays out the case for buying into packaging stocks now. Introducing his case, the 5-star analyst writes, We are generally bullish on the packaging space as we expect positive volume leverage to become apparent over 2024. We believe most investors have underestimated the sizeable aggregate impact of destocking, SKU rationalization, and magnitude / duration impact from elasticity sticker shock in 2023 that resulted in volume pressures worse than seen during the Global Financial Crisis.

Woodworth points out that there is always demand for product packaging  and also that a combination of higher volume sales and restocking needs in 2H24 are likely to provide support for the sector. He sees product pricing  that is, the cost of boxes, packing materials, and other related items  as a tailwind for packaging stocks this year. All in all, the UBS sector expert sees packaging stocks as the place to find profits.

So lets follow this path. Weve looked up the details on 3 packaging stocks Woodworth has picked out. For a fuller view of their prospects, we have also checked the TipRanks data to find out what the rest of Wall Street thinks. Here are the details, along with the UBS comments.

Pactiv Evergreen (PTVE)

The first stock well look at, Pactiv Evergreen, is a mid-cap manufacturing firm with a $2.6 billion market cap, developing, producing, and distributing a wide range of packaging products for the food and beverage industry. The company markets its product lines to a varied set of target users, including educational and recreational companies and institutions, restaurants, supermarkets, and food & beverage processors.

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Pactivs target market is huge, and the company employs over 14,000 people across 50+ manufacturing plants and more than 40 distribution centers. The companys portfolio includes more than 14,000 unique products, ranging from plates and bowls to cutlery to meat and poultry trays, egg cartons, and resealable beverage containers. All in all, Pactiv has approximately 1,100 product lines.

In addition to its ready-made lines, Pactiv offers its customers the ability to custom-order packaging, accommodating odd shapes, unique designs, and customer-specific labeling requirements. The companys engineers and designers will meet and collaborate with the customer to come up with the perfect package, and provide rapid prototype production through 3-D printing. Pactiv is also a leader in food packaging innovation, and in 2022 spent $33 million on R&D. The company also makes extensive use of recycled and sustainably sourced materials in its production activities.

This adds up to big business, although the top line did decline in the last reported quarter, 3Q23. The company reported a top line for 3Q of $1.379 billion, down 14% year-over-year  and some $10 million below the forecast. The bottom line did better  Pactivs Q3 non-GAAP earnings were 32 cents per share; this was up from 13 cents in 3Q22 and 20 cents in 2Q23, and beat the estimates by 12 cents per share.

For UBSs Woodworth, this company presents return-minded investors with a sound long-term choice, and he says of the firm, We view Pactiv as a compelling execution story in the packaging space as restructuring actions and improved productivity set the stage for more consistent earnings performance and better FCF conversion. PTVE has executed well in FY23 despite broad-based volume challenges due to strong net price attainment, cost down actions, and mix enhancement. PTVE has benefitted from share gains in Foodservice, and we expect modest organic volume growth in 2024 as destocking has abated and PTVE benefits from better operational performance and end of SKU rationalization.

These comments back up Woodworths Buy rating on the stock, and his $19 price target implies a one-year gain of 30% for the shares. (To watch Woodworths track record, click here.)

Wall Street generally is bullish here, as shown by the Strong Buy consensus rating based on 6 recent analyst reviews  5 to Buy and 1 to Hold. The shares are priced at $14.58 and have an average target price of $16.50, suggesting an upside potential of 13% for the next 12 months. (See Pactiv Evergreens stock forecast.)

Berry Global Group (BERY)

Plastics are ubiquitous in todays world, and the packaging sector is a major user, producer, and innovator of plastic materials. Berry Global Group, the second stock on our list, is a $7.7 billion firm that has been a leader in the field of plastic containers and packaging products since the 1960s. The company has more than 100,000 products on the market, produced by over 40,000 employees globally. Berry supports more than 18,000 customers, providing them with a wide range of plastic products.

These products include everything from spray bottles to tapes and adhesives. The company can manufacture plastic squeeze tubes of the sort frequently used for soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste; plastic trays and lids, of any shape; medical devices; jars and drinking cups; filters and filtration materials; films and laminates; applicators, bottles and vials, tubs and pots; plastic bags  think of the ever-present grocery bag; even plastic-fiber-based disposable attire. If a customer needs it, Berry can develop it in plastics.

This wide array of products is found in an equally wide array of market sectors. These can include heavy/industrial sectors, such as shipping and transportation or commercial and industrial supplies, to lighter segments such as personal hygiene, foodservice, and beauty products. The company also has customers in the building and construction industries, as well as agriculture and horticulture.

Maintaining such a broad-based business model has been good for Berry. The company brought in a total of $12.7 billion in net sales for its fiscal year 2023, which ended on September 30 last year. The company reported a free cash flow for the fiscal year of $926 million, and returned $728 million to shareholders during the year.

That said, in the last reported quarter, fiscal 4Q23, Berrys quarterly revenue came to $3.1 billion, a figure that was down almost 10% y/y and came in $50 million below the forecast. Earnings presented better news for investors, coming in at $2.28 by non-GAAP measures  and beating the forecast by 14 cents per share.

Shares in BERY are up some 14% over the past 12 months but have trailed the S&P 500s 20% gain. For analyst Woodworth, this stock is a solid value choice, with room for gains. He writes of the company, We view Berry as undervalued: despite strategic shifts made over the past 2 years (capital allocation, Board & CEO changes, and strategic commercial pivots) the valuation multiple has de-rated on macro concerns & weakness in organic growth. We believe Berry is set for stronger growth in 2024/25 as a new product pipeline & more tactical commercial strategy should drive potential upside. We expect enhanced operating leverage will come with renewed focus on plant level optimization and positive net price, resulting in sharp acceleration in EPS growth in 2024-26.

For Woodworth, this adds up to a Buy rating, and his price target on the stock, $89, indicates an upside potential of 33% on the one-year horizon.

The 11 recent analyst reviews here break down 9 to 1 in favor of Buy over Hold, giving the stock its Strong Buy consensus rating. The stocks $67 trading price and $79.30 average target price together suggest an 18% one-year upside potential. (See Berry Globals stock forecast.)

O-I Glass (OI)

When you talk about packaging, you probably focus on plastics or cardboard  but glass bottles are also packages, and glass packaging materials are a major segment of the larger packaging business. O-I Glass, based in Ohio, has been involved in the glass container business since the early 1900s, and has grown to boast a global footprint, with customers and operations in North and South America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.

O-I describes glass as the worlds most sustainable packaging material, and the company has developed multiple lines of glass containers and bottles for use in the food and beverage sectors. The company markets glass bottles specially designed for wine, beer, and spirits, in all of the distinctive shapes we have come to expect. In addition, O-I produces and distributes containers and bottles for non-alcoholic beverages as well as food items.

The glass packaging niche may seem humble, but it is huge. O-I produced 41 billion glass containers in 2022, and the company employs over 24,000 people at 69 production plants in 19 countries. The financial side is impressive, too. O-I reported a total of $6.85 billion in sales for 2022, and is on track to exceed that figure when the 2023 results are announced on February 6.

In the meantime, we can look at the companys last quarterly report, from 3Q23, to get a feel for where O-I stands now. The companys top line in the quarter came to $1.74 billion. While this missed the forecast by $20 million, it was up 3% year-over-year. The bottom line non-GAAP earnings figure, reported at 80 cents per share, was up significantly from the 63 cents per share reported in the prior-year quarter  and it was 10 cents per share better than had been expected.

Analyst Woodworth, in his write-up for UBS, notes that O-I has been executing a turnaround plan  with success. He sees the company well-positioned for a bullish near-term, and writes, We believe glass fundamentals are not as bearish as recent volume trends would suggest owing to substantial destocking impacts and short cycle contract positioning. Contrary to market expectation for elasticity impacts, higher price point glass demand held up better than many other substrates across 2H22- early 2023 with stable growth in wine and spirits. OIs elasticity impact on volumes and de-rating is unwarranted, in our view, as its EBITDA outlook remains supported by volume recovery and a less exaggerated pricing impact given aggressive industry action to rightsize capacity.

Woodworth puts a Buy rating here, along with a $26 price target that indicates his confidence in a 73% upside potential heading out to the one-year time frame. (To watch Woodworths track record, click here.)

While Woodworth is highly bullish, the Street generally isnt quite ready to go that far. Thats not to say that Wall Street doesnt like this stock  the shares have a Moderate Buy consensus rating, based on 9 analyst reviews that include 6 Buys and 3 Holds. The shares are trading for $15 and their average price target, currently at $21.56, implies the stock will gain 44% over the next year. (See O-I Glasss stock forecast.)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
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If youre a city dweller, you might sometimes be tempted to give up the rat race for small-town life. Sure, some of that thinking may revolve around Norman Rockwell images of quaint main streets, family-owned shops and diners where everyone knows each other. Based on the current housing market in many major U.S. metropolises, however, youre probably focused on the potential of buying a modestly priced home in a cost-friendly area.

Find Out: How Much Money Do Americans Have in Their Bank Accounts in 2024?

Learn: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000

But you shouldnt assume that living in a small town always equates to affordable housing and lower expenses. Not all small towns are priced the same. There are several areas, in particular, where your mortgage wouldnt feel out of place in some of the nations most expensive urban real estate markets.

GOBankingRates looked at towns with 500-15,000 housing units, according to the U.S. Census American Community Survey. Using home values, rent and cost of living data, GOBankingRates found the most expensive small towns in America.

Solana Beach, California

Population: 13,025

Housing Units: 5,278

Average Rent: $4,768

Average Home Value: $2,362,340

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $472,468

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $13,214

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,870

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Mercer Island, Washington

Population: 25,506

Housing Units: 9,758

Average Rent: $2,590

Average Home Value: $2,218,301

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.94%

20% Down Payment: $443,660

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $12,409

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,806

Find Out: Can You Get a Second Mortgage If Your Only Income Is Social Security?

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Burlingame, California

Population: 31,142

Housing Units: 12,418

Average Rent: $3,090

Average Home Value: $2,670,648

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $534,130

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $14,939

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,151

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Los Gatos, California

Population: 33,309

Housing Units: 13,036

Average Rent: $3,674

Average Home Value: $2,642,780

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $528,556

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $14,783

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,132

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Piedmont, California

Population: 11,368

Housing Units: 3,821

Average Rent: $4,669

Average Home Value: $2,532,842

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $506,568

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $14,168

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,016

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Highland Beach, Florida

Population: 4,244

Housing Units: 2,222

Average Rent: $6,994

Average Home Value: $2,003,440

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.86%

20% Down Payment: $400,688

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $11,207

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,944

Discover: 7 Safest and Cheapest Cities To Live in Florida

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Menlo Park, California

Population: 33,677

Housing Units: 11,725

Average Rent: $3,898

Average Home Value: $2,749,252

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $549,850

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $15,379

Monthly Cost Of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,114

aimintang / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Wellesley, Massachusetts

Population: 29,365

Housing Units: 8,668

Average Rent: $3,931

Average Home Value: $1,853,741

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.20%

20% Down Payment: $370,748

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $10,369

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,922

Ron_Thomas / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Coronado, California

Population: 20,627

Housing Units: 7,147

Average Rent: $4,796

Average Home Value: $2,769,271

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $553,854

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $15,491

Monthly Cost Of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,864

Roberto Galan / Getty Images

Bellaire, Texas

Population: 17,262

Housing Units: 6,230

Average Rent: $2,813

Average Home Value: $1,017,909

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.74%

20% Down Payment: $203,582

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $5,694

Monthly Cost Of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,848

Check Out: 10 Places To Retire That Are Just Like Arizona but Way Cheaper

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Laguna Beach, California

Population: 23,121

Housing Units: 10,536

Average Rent: $4,983

Average Home Value: $2,900,190

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $580,038

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $16,223

Monthly Cost Of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,875

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Palos Verdes Estates, California

Population: 13,403

Housing Units: 4,909

Average Rent: $6,750

Average Home Value: $2,726,313

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $545,263

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $15,250

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,016

HaizhanZheng / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Port Washington, New York

Population: 16,807

Housing Units: 5,738

Average Rent: $4,617

Average Home Value: $1,091,389

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $218,278

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,105

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,396

Kirk Wester / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Manhattan Beach, California

Population: 35,585

Housing Units: 13,422

Average Rent: $6,344

Average Home Value: $2,994,733

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $598,947

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $16,752

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,992

Read Next: 5 Life-Improving Things You Can Afford Once You Reach Upper Middle Class

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Great Neck, New York

Population: 11,034

Housing Units: 3,283

Average Rent: $4,070

Average Home Value: $1,386,099

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $277,220

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $7,753

Monthly Cost Of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,387

RoschetzkyIstockPhoto / Getty Images

Southlake, Texas

Population: 30,754

Housing Units: 9,299

Average Rent: $5,468

Average Home Value: $1,191,087

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.74%

20% Down Payment: $238,217

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,663

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,893

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Tiburon, California

Population: 9,146

Housing Units: 3,515

Average Rent: $5,445

Average Home Value: $3,308,347

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $661,669

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $18,506

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,040

Lowe Llaguno / Shutterstock.com

Saratoga, California

Population: 31,194

Housing Units: 11,039

Average Rent: $5,657

Average Home Value: $3,622,824

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $724,565

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $20,265

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,116

Suze Orman: Young People Could Retire Millionaires By Doing This One Thing

Joao Paulo V Tinoco / Shutterstock.com

Larchmont, New York

Population: 6,532

Housing Units: 2,102

Average Rent: $5,998

Average Home Value: $1,576,448

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $315,290

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $8,818

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,315

EJ_Rodriquez / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Glencoe, Illinois

Population: 8,824

Housing Units: 3,195

Average Rent: $2,123

Average Home Value: $1,261,200

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.23%

20% Down Payment: $252,240

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $7,054

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,893

Michael Barera / Wikimedia Commons CC-BY-SA 4

University Park, Texas

Population: 25,029

Housing Units: 7,528

Average Rent: $4,261

Average Home Value: $2,151,513

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.74%

20% Down Payment: $430,303

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $12,035

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,851

NNehring / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Los Altos, California

Population: 31,562

Housing Units: 10,805

Average Rent: $5,779

Average Home Value: $4,065,191

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $813,038

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $22,740

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,084

Find Out: Arizonas Retirees Are Fleeing: Heres Where Theyre Settling

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Belmar, New Jersey

Population: 5,869

Housing Units: 2,662

Average Rent: $2,299

Average Home Value: $1,039,537

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $207,908

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $5,815

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,820

HaizhanZheng / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Bradley Beach, New Jersey

Population: 4,284

Housing Units: 1,956

Average Rent: $2,467

Average Home Value: $1,052,582

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $210,516

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $5,888

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,822

cristianl / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Key Biscayne, Florida

Population: 14,530

Housing Units: 4,580

Average Rent: $7,414

Average Home Value: $3,718,520

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.86%

20% Down Payment: $743,704

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $20,800

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,025

Donald Siano / Wikimedia Commons

Westfield, New Jersey

Population: 30,950

Housing Units: 10,514

Average Rent: $2,963

Average Home Value: $1,059,689

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $211,938

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $5,928

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,061

Related: Rich Dad Robert Kiyosaki Reveals His 2024 Master Plan and His Advice for Becoming a Millionaire

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Margate City, New Jersey

Population: 5,402

Housing Units: 2,658

Average Rent: $3,177

Average Home Value: $1,030,587

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $206,117

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $5,765

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,791

andykazie / iStock.com

Sea Bright, New Jersey

Population: 1,532

Housing Units: 876

Average Rent: $2,303

Average Home Value: $1,191,935

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $238,387

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,667

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,958

Chatham, New Jersey

Population: 9,208

Housing Units: 2,995

Average Rent: $3,096

Average Home Value: $1,137,662

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $227,532

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,364

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,078

Art Wager / Getty Images

Del Mar, California

Population: 4,008

Housing Units: 1,818

Average Rent: $8,050

Average Home Value: $4,078,818

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $815,764

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $22,816

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,922

Discover: 6 Safest and Cheapest Cities to Live in Virginia

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Summit, New Jersey

Population: 22,598

Housing Units: 7,853

Average Rent: $2,886

Average Home Value: $1,197,263

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $239,453

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,697

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,028

sainaniritu / Getty Images

Ocean City, New Jersey

Population: 11,211

Housing Units: 5,353

Average Rent: $1,846

Average Home Value: $1,330,603

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $266,121

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $7,443

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,865

andykazie / Getty Images

Tenafly, New Jersey

Population: 15,307

Housing Units: 4,981

Average Rent: $4,475

Average Home Value: $1,082,836

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $216,567

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $6,057

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,115

Zillow

Paradise Valley, Arizona

Population: 12,666

Housing Units: 5,064

Average Rent: $17,000

Average Home Value: $3,222,023

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.62%

20% Down Payment: $644,405

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $18,023

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,855

Find Out: Why Floridas Retirees Are Fleeing  And Where Theyre Going Instead

peeterv / iStock.com

Rancho Santa Fe, California

Population: 2,914

Housing Units: 984

Average Rent: $9,398

Average Home Value: $4,140,558

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $828,112

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $23,161

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,939.

Alexander Farnsworth / Getty Images/iStockphoto

New Canaan, Connecticut

Population: 7,399

Housing Units: 2,817

Average Rent: $5,245

Average Home Value: $1,944,354

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.15%

20% Down Payment: $388,871

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $10,876

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,257

Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock.com

Spring Lake, New Jersey

Population: 2,814

Housing Units: 1,285

Average Rent: $3,242

Average Home Value: $1,642,633

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $328,527

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $9,188

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,845

jeremyiswild / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Malibu, California

Population: 10,915

Housing Units: 4,442

Average Rent: $13,251

Average Home Value: $3,927,917

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $785,583

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $21,972

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,090

Learn: 5 Ways the Middle Class Can Build Wealth Over the Next 5 Years

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Greenwich, Connecticut

Population: 13,978

Housing Units: 5,530

Average Rent: $5,096

Average Home Value: $2,262,242

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.15%

20% Down Payment: $452,448

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $12,654

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,232

dszc / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Beverly Hills, California

Population: 32,903

Housing Units: 14,401

Average Rent: $4,404

Average Home Value: $5,580,482

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.75%

20% Down Payment: $1,116,096

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $31,216

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,991

Daniel Case / Wikimedia Commons

Short Hills, New Jersey

Population: 14,500

Housing Units: 4,561

Average Rent: $5,693

Average Home Value: $1,906,654

Median Property Tax Rate: 2.47%

20% Down Payment: $381,331

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $10,665

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,158

anouchka / iStock.com

Bal Harbour, Florida

Population: 3,037

Housing Units: 1,379

Average Rent: $7,247

Average Home Value: $5,388,357

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.86%

20% Down Payment: $1,077,671

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $30,141

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,030

Im a Financial Expert: Always Buy the Cheapest Version of These 10 Things

Joan D Squared / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Montauk, New York

Population: 4,272

Housing Units: 1,571

Average Rent: $32,111

Average Home Value: $1,821,636

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $364,327

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $10,190

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,061

Sag Harbor, New York

Population: 2,480

Housing Units: 1,095

Average Rent: $32,643

Average Home Value: $1,969,777

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $393,955

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $11,018

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,103

Miles Astray / Getty Images/iStockphoto

East Hampton, New York

Population: 1,062

Housing Units: 588

Average Rent: $34,808

Average Home Value: $1,765,851

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $355,170

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $9,878

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,112

iStock.com

Westhampton Beach, New York

Population: 2,234

Housing Units: 955

Average Rent: $41,000

Average Home Value: $1,748,975

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $349,795

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $9,783

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,177

Check Out: 10 Cheapest Cities To Live in North Carolina

coobrien / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Southampton, New York

Population: 4,380

Housing Units: 1,660

Average Rent: $42,333

Average Home Value: $1,993,419

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $398,684

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $11,151

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,088

DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Bridgehampton, New York

Population: 1,447

Housing Units: 525

Average Rent: $46,042

Average Home Value: $3,820,395

Median Property Tax Rate: 1.73%

20% Down Payment: $764,079

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $21,370

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $2,167

Jonathan Ross / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Aspen, Colorado

Population: 7,019

Housing Units: 3,278

Average Rent: $32,278

Average Home Value: $8,818,525

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.51%

20% Down Payment: $1,763,705

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $49,328

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,620

NoDerog / Getty Images

Palm Beach, Florida

Population: 9,175

Housing Units: 5,359

Average Rent: $13,350

Average Home Value: $11,187,641

Median Property Tax Rate: 0.86%

20% Down Payment: $2,237,528

Monthly Mortgage Payment: $62,580

Monthly Cost of Necessities (excluding housing): $1,964

Joel Anderson contributed to the reporting for this article.

Methodology: To find the most expensive small towns in America, GOBankingRates looked at [1] towns with 500-15,000 housing units, according to the U.S. Census American Community Survey. Once these small towns were located, GOBankingRates used [2] Zillows Home Value Index to find each citys median home value as of September 2023. All cities with a median home value below $1 million or without data were removed. GOBankingRates then found [3] each remaining small towns median rent listing for single-family residences, as sourced from Zillow. All small towns without data were discarded. GOBankingRates analyzed the remaining small towns across the following factors: [4] annual mortgage for a 10% down payment, [5] annual mortgage for a 20% down payment using the [6] average September 2023 home value as sourced from Zillows Home Value Index and the [7] average national 30 year fixed-rate mortgage rate as sourced from the Federal Reserve Economic Data. The property tax for each state was also sourced for supplemental information as sourced from Forbes. The [8] cost of living for grocery, transportation, utilities and healthcare within each city was sourced from Sperlings BestPlaces, and using the [9] national average expenditure costs as sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey, the average expenditure costs for each city were calculated. The September 2023 average rent was scored and weighted at 1.00; the September 2023 average home value was scored and weighted at 1.00; the property tax rate was scored and weighted at 0.75; the 10% down payment mortgage was scored and weighted at 1, while the 20% down payment mortgage was not counted in the scoring, as that would weigh the mortgage score too heavily and the mortgage is already counted; the average monthly expenditure costs were scored and weighted at 1.00. All the scores were combined and sorted to show the most expensive small towns in America. All data was collected and is up to date as of Nov. 14, 2023.

Photo Disclaimer: Please note photos are for representational purposes only. As a result, some of the photos might not reflect the locations listed in this article.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 50 Most Expensive Small Towns in America
Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Crest Nicholson Holdings' stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

A total of 14 investors have a majority stake in the company with 52% ownership

Analyst forecasts along with ownership data serve to give a strong idea about prospects for a business

If you want to know who really controls Crest Nicholson Holdings plc (LON:CRST), then you'll have to look at the makeup of its share registry. With 87% stake, institutions possess the maximum shares in the company. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

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.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Crest Nicholson Holdings, beginning with the chart below.

View our latest analysis for Crest Nicholson Holdings

LSE:CRST Ownership Breakdown January 22nd 2024

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Crest Nicholson Holdings?

Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index.

Crest Nicholson Holdings already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Crest Nicholson Holdings' historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

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LSE:CRST Earnings and Revenue Growth January 22nd 2024

Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. Crest Nicholson Holdings is not owned by hedge funds. Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC is currently the company's largest shareholder with 7.5% of shares outstanding. The second and third largest shareholders are BlackRock, Inc. and Janus Henderson Group plc, with an equal amount of shares to their name at 5.1%.

Looking at the shareholder registry, we can see that 52% of the ownership is controlled by the top 14 shareholders, meaning that no single shareholder has a majority interest in the ownership.

Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of Crest Nicholson Holdings

The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our data suggests that insiders own under 1% of Crest Nicholson Holdings plc in their own names. It seems the board members have no more than UK1.5m worth of shares in the UK525m company. Many investors in smaller companies prefer to see the board more heavily invested. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 12% stake in Crest Nicholson Holdings. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Crest Nicholson Holdings better, we need to consider many other factors. Take risks for example - Crest Nicholson Holdings has 3 warning signs (and 2 which make us uncomfortable) we think you should know about.

If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
By Karl Plume and Seher Dareen

(Reuters) -Shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland plunged 24% on Monday, its biggest one-day drop since 1929, after CFO Vikram Luthar was placed on administrative leave as the company investigates accounting practices at its Nutrition segment.

The global grains merchant cut its 2023 profit forecast and said fourth-quarter results would be delayed due to the investigation related to certain inter-segment transactions, in response to a voluntary document request by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The probe brings more uncertainty to ADM's high-margin Nutrition segment, which is under pressure due to weak demand for meat alternatives and other products as well as downtime at a large soy processing facility.

ADM's stock closed at $51.69 a share, the lowest since February 2021. Its 24% fall was the largest one-day percentage decline for the shares since Nov. 13, 1929, two weeks after the market crash of 1929, according to the Chicago-based Center for Research in Security Prices.

The SEC did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. ADM said it is cooperating with the SEC.

Luthar joined ADM nearly two decades ago, serving in various leadership roles before being appointed CFO in 2022.

The company posted a string of record earnings due to favorable crop processing margins and strong demand for food, animal feed and biofuel. The Nutrition segment, however, has not performed well in recent quarters.

The segment supplies ingredients including plant-based proteins, natural flavors and emulsifiers to food, beverage and nutritional supplements industries, among others.

Recent large investments in animal feed and pet nutrition have also not lived up to expectations, analysts said.

At least four brokerages downgraded ADM's stock after the SEC request, and the company cut its adjusted earnings forecast to $6.90 per share for the fiscal year ended December, 2023 from an "excess of $7 a share" earlier.

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"First and foremost, understanding the true scope of potential accounting irregularities and their impact on Nutrition segment revenues/margins will be critical," said Goldman Sachs analyst Adam Samuelson.

ADM, one of the largest grain traders and processors in the world, has been growing its flavors and nutrition business, aiming to better shield itself from commodity price volatility.

It first acquired WILD Flavors in 2014 for $3 billion and most recently, towards the end of 2023, said it would buy UK-based flavor and ingredient firm FDL.

"If (the) issue is just transfer pricing (tax avoidance), it shouldn't change 2024 EPS outlook. ADM likely can continue buybacks and close recent acquisitions despite investigation," said analysts at BMO.

Until investors have more clarity as to what exactly went wrong with ADM's nutrition segment accounting, UBS analysts said traders could turn to shares of Darling Ingredients and rival grain merchant Bunge Global.

ADM appointed Ismael Roig, who has been with the company since 2004, as its interim CFO.

(Reporting by Karl Plume and Tom Polansek in Chicago and Medha Singh and Seher Dareen in Bengaluru; Editing by Chris Reese and Christopher Cushing)
As families face the prospect of securing nursing home care for their loved ones, two critical questions often arise: How can you afford such care without exhausting your savings, and are there government programs available to assist with these expenses?

Understanding The Costs Of Nursing Home Care

The average cost for nursing home care varies significantly by state, with private rooms generally costing more than semi-private rooms. In 2023, nursing homes cost an average of $8,390 per month for a semi-private room and $9,584 per month for a private room. The location of the nursing home is a major factor affecting the cost, with cities generally being more expensive than rural areas. For example, the average yearly cost of a nursing home in Long Island, New York, is $142,350, while it's only $68,620 in Alabama.

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Strategies To Afford Nursing Home Care Without Depleting Savings

Families can employ several strategies to manage the costs of nursing home care without depleting their savings. Long-term financial planning, including saving and investing wisely over time, and considering various insurance options well in advance are crucial.

Long-term care insurance is a critical tool in this planning. It can provide coverage for nursing home costs, but its important to understand the specific coverage and limitations of each policy. Personal resources, such as savings and retirement funds, can also be used to finance nursing home care.

Government Programs For Nursing Home Care Assistance

Several government programs offer assistance for nursing home care. Medicare provides limited coverage for short-term skilled nursing care. It covers 100% of the costs for the first 20 days of care, followed by a coinsurance payment required for days 21 to 100. After 100 days, Medicare coverage ceases, and other funding sources must be used.

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Medicaid, on the other hand, is the largest single-payer for nursing home care in the United States. It covers 100% of the costs of nursing home care for eligible people at approved facilities. Eligibility for Medicaid is means-tested and based on a person's income and assets.

For veterans and their spouses, the Aid and Attendance Benefit and state Veterans Affairs (VA) nursing homes provide additional options. These programs offer financial assistance and specialized care for those who have served in the military.

Asset Protection And Legal Considerations

When it comes to asset protection and legal considerations, understanding Medicaid's eligibility and spend-down rules is essential. Legal strategies can help people qualify for Medicaid while protecting their assets. This is particularly important when there are concerns about whether Medicaid can seize homes or retirement savings, especially for married couples.

Consulting with elder law attorneys is crucial, as they can provide professional guidance to navigate complex regulations and protect assets. Spousal impoverishment rules are in place to protect the nonapplicant spouse from financial hardship while still allowing the applicant spouse to qualify for Medicaid.

Additional Resources And Support

Additional resources and support are available to help families navigate the challenges of nursing home care. Local nonprofit organizations often provide assistance and guidance. Financial planning professionals who specialize in elder care can offer personalized advice and help develop strategies for managing the costs of nursing home care. Support groups also provide peer support for families navigating these challenges, offering a space for sharing experiences and advice.

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*This information is not financial advice, and personalized guidance from a financial adviser is recommended for making well-informed decisions.

Jeannine Mancini has written about personal finance and investment for the past 13 years in a variety of publications including Zacks, The Nest and eHow. She is not a licensed financial adviser, and the content herein is for information purposes only and is not, and does not constitute or intend to constitute, investment advice or any investment service. While Mancini believes that the information contained herein is reliable and derived from reliable sources, there is no representation, warranty or undertaking, stated or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information.

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This article How Can I Afford Nursing Home Care in the Future Without Draining My Savings? originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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Insiders who bought American Coastal Insurance Corporation (NASDAQ:ACIC) stock in the last 12 months were richly rewarded last week. The company's market value increased by US$69m as a result of the stock's 16% gain over the same period. Put another way, the original US$213.9k acquisition is now worth US$317.8k.

While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares.

View our latest analysis for American Coastal Insurance

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At American Coastal Insurance

In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when Independent Director William Hood bought US$100k worth of shares at a price of US$7.44 per share. Although we like to see insider buying, we note that this large purchase was at significantly below the recent price of US$11.50. Because it occurred at a lower valuation, it doesn't tell us much about whether insiders might find today's price attractive.

While American Coastal Insurance 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 click on the chart, you can see all the individual transactions, including the share price, individual, and the date!

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.

American Coastal Insurance Insiders Bought Stock Recently

Over the last three months, we've seen significant insider buying at American Coastal Insurance. Not only was there no selling that we can see, but they collectively bought US$61k worth of shares. This could be interpreted as suggesting a positive outlook.

Does American Coastal Insurance Boast High Insider Ownership?

I like to look at how many shares insiders own in a company, to help inform my view of how aligned they are with insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. American Coastal Insurance insiders own about US$266m worth of shares (which is 53% of the company). I like to see this level of insider ownership, because it increases the chances that management are thinking about the best interests of shareholders.

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So What Do The American Coastal Insurance Insider Transactions Indicate?

It's certainly positive to see the recent insider purchases. And the longer term insider transactions also give us confidence. But we don't feel the same about the fact the company is making losses. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest American Coastal Insurance insiders are well aligned, and quite possibly think the share price is too low. Looks promising! So while it's helpful to know what insiders are doing in terms of buying or selling, it's also helpful to know the risks that a particular company is facing. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for American Coastal Insurance (1 is significant) you should be aware of.

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.
Former ABC, CNN Anchor Launches Hear God Media, Revolutionizing Spiritual Connection with Bite-Sized Sermonettes on YouTube

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Hear God Media

Jan. 22, 2024

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Jan. 22, 2024 /Standard Newswire/ -- In the midst of today's hectic pace, Hear God Media is ushering in a groundbreaking solution for those seeking a moment of peace amidst the chaos. Steve Kosch, former ABC, CNN anchor, founded Hear God Media, a YouTube channel offering bite-sized, 1-2 minute video sermonettes from top preachers. These snippets seamlessly fit into busy schedules, providing a quick spiritual lift.

Bite-Sized Faith for Modern Life

Recognizing the challenges of modern life, Steve Kosch emphasizes the convenience of Hear God Media's 1-2 minute video sermonettes. He states, "Our platform offers a convenient way to connect with your faith, providing inspiration and reflection amid the chaos of daily life."

Meeting the Growing Demand for Spiritual Connection

With 75% of American adults seeking religious information online (Pew Research Center 2022), Hear God Media aims to fulfill the increasing desire for spiritual connection. The channel addresses the needs of a new generation of faith seekers, offering a diverse collection of short video sermonettes covering topics such as faith, forgiveness, relationships, resilience, love, happiness, navigating life's challenges, finding inner peace, and discovering purpose.

Top Preachers, Anytime, Anywhere

Hear God Media features esteemed preachers like T.D. Jakes, Rick Warren, Joyce Meyer, Charles Stanley, and more. The platform condenses the essence of their full-length sermons into concise, impactful 1-2 minute segments, perfect for quick inspiration during lunch breaks, commutes, or quiet moments at home.

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You are cordially invited to explore Hear God Media on YouTube. Watch and comment on numerous videos available and consider subscribing to our growing community.

About Hear God Media: Hear God Media delivers bite-sized spiritual inspiration on YouTube with captivating visuals and thought-provoking messages. Founded by Steve Kosch, whose passion for faith and video production fuels this unique platform for personal and spiritual growth.

Contact: Steve Kosch, Founder

Phone: 949-720-2080 Pacific Time

Email: heargodmedia@gmail.com

YouTube: @heargodmedia

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCayJeioXtpmwGCubraFw5GA

Google Drive Link for Media Assets https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1yMP_91kANs1Ac6Uu4Txn

PujuPWjQiEKe?usp=sharing

SOURCE Hear God Media

CONTACT: Steve Kosch, Founder, 949-720-2080, heargodmedia@gmail.com


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Would-be partners have offered Abel Ochoa "crazy amounts of money" for the social equity marijuana license he and his cousin own.

"I had somebody offer me $17 million," he said, laughing. "If I would've just took the money, like yeah, that would've been nice. But what, what would've been the purpose behind it?"

He and his cousin, Diana Pineda, turned them all down. Ochoa instead borrowed a nominal amount of cash from his parents, who own a small restaurant. He and Pineda are now the only social equity license holders, out of 26, who both own and control their own dispensary.

The other 25 are controlled, and in many cases owned outright, by partners  mainly multistate cannabis companies.

Arizona voters created the social equity license program by approving the state's recreational marijuana law in 2020. It defined the program as aiming "to promote the ownership and operation of marijuana establishments and marijuana testing facilities by individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of previous marijuana laws."

Advocates of legal marijuana and social justice activists warned at the time the program only would add to the tally of dispensaries owned by wealthy corporations. And that's just what happened.

The social equity licenses come with more zoning headaches because they only allow for recreational sales. But they were still highly sought after as some of the last licenses available, since the state has a cap of one recreational or medical license per 10 pharmacies. Arizona has 169 issued licenses, with only a few still not in use.

Some hopeful social-equity applicants, often people of color, claim they were victims of predatory financial schemes. Rene Mendoza told The Arizona Republic how he and his partner lost his license after a dispute with their business partners and were hit with a $638,000 debt.

Abel Ochoa helps a customer at his independent El Mirage dispensary, which he operates under a state social equity license.

Aggrieved parties have sought help from the courts or the state Department of Health Services, which oversees marijuana regulation in Arizona. But the state agency, which set the rules for the program, only can play a limited role in how it works, DHS acting Director Jennifer Cunico said in a September 2023 letter.

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The agency's authority "does not extend to resolving business disputes among or between licensees," she wrote in the letter to Tucson Democratic Rep. Alma Hernandez, who had inquired about problems with the program, "nor are we responsible for investigating fraudulent or exploitative business practices."

Program had been predicted to fail

Arizona is hardly alone in failing to create a successful social equity cannabis program.

Of the 15 state social equity programs, not one has resulted in an equitable cannabis industry across all four pillars of equity (industry, justice, community, and access), according to a 2022 report by the Minority Cannabis Business Association.

Deeply Rooted's temporary location in El Mirage. Abel Ochoa and his cousin, Diana Pineda, own and operate the marijuana dispensary.

Reasons for the failures include lack of funding for startups, unwillingness to apply race-based criteria in programs and caps on the number of licenses, said the group, which was founded in 2015 to promote diversity in the industry.

Arizonas social equity program was a way for the ballot measures authors to address the historic imbalance in marijuana arrests among racial minorities. Statistics, including those collected by the state health agency, show Black, Latino and Indigenous people in Arizona are arrested for marijuana-related offenses at a higher rate per capita than white people. Numerous media reports also have highlighted complaints that dispensary owners are disproportionately white men.

Members of the dispensary industry wrote Arizonas law but left details of the social equity program to the state health agency. With suggestions from community members, the agency drew up rules that required license applicants or their family members to have an expungable marijuana offense in their past, have an income below 400% of the federal poverty line, live in an area disproportionately affected by marijuana enforcement, take a marijuana business training class and pay $4,000 to enter their application in a lottery.

A qualifying applicant had to own at least 51% in any group or corporation that applied, though the rules put no limit on selling a license once it was obtained.

Acre 41, a company consisting of women of color hoping to obtain a license, and the Greater Phoenix Urban League, a nonprofit that helps minority communities, sued the state over the rules. They alleged existing marijuana companies would buy out the token license holders without better safeguards.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Randall Warner dismissed the case in February 2022, declaring the DHS rules were reasonably designed. His ruling cleared the way for the April 8, 2022, DHS lottery for the licenses. More than 1,300 people entered, many backed by deep-pocketed patrons.

They never had a chance, said Celeste Rodriguez, one of the principals of Acre 41. Of the 26 people who won the license lottery, she said most sold their licenses or control of future business operations for much less than their value. At least four received as little as $35,000 for their licenses, she said.

Rodriguez is working with aggrieved current or former license holders, has reached out to lawmakers and plans to contact Gov. Katie Hobbs to try and fix the nightmare of a program. Shes hoping Hobbs can revoke some of the licenses and is lobbying for a new law that takes marijuana oversight away from the state health agency.

Rodriguez said Acre 41s mission is now to rectify the unjust that has taken place. She encourages those who believe their license was taken in a predatory agreement to contact the state Attorney Generals Office and file a consumer fraud complaint.

For couple, license win started financial trouble

Mendoza, of Tucson, said he and his partner Anavel Vasquez both worked as wildland firefighters in her native Mexico for a time. But he said jumping into the cannabis business proved even riskier, at least for financial safety.

After an arbitrator's decision last year, they have lost the ability to use the social equity license Vasquez won to run a business and were ordered to pay attorneys' fees of $638,000, which they can't afford. The winner of the decision, Mike Halow of Story Cannabis, is also fighting Mendoza in court.

"We'll be over $1.5 million in debt if they win this one," Mendoza said.

He and Vasquez have average financial resources and met the criteria for the social equity program. Vasquez's son once was arrested for possession of a small amount of marijuana. Mendoza grew up in Arizona and has worked for three Arizona firefighting agencies, he said, including full time for the Rio Rico Fire District. They also run a CPR training company operating in both English and Spanish. Vasquez speaks limited English.

They responded to a flyer by Halow's company inviting them to own a marijuana business "at no cost" to them.

"'Well train you, well teach you, well provide all the funding,'" Mendoza said of the offer. "Once we got that license, it was different. They started threatening."

Only later did they find out a term sheet for a business contract was tucked into electronic documents that were part of the license application, which Mendoza said they signed without consulting a lawyer. Under the agreement they signed, they were members of a company called "Juicy Joint." To meet the criteria for the social equity license, Vasquez would retain 51% ownership of the license and company while Halow and his team, including two companies, Helping Hands LLC and Investing in the Future LLC, made up the other 49%.

Halow's associates met them in a hotel room, offering $35,000 cash in a duffel bag to give up their 51%, he said. Mendoza never met Halow in person. Their refusal kicked off a legal fight that, according to the term sheet they signed, had to be resolved out of court in arbitration.

The result was a July 2023 decision by arbitrator Shawn Aiken that went the wrong way for Vasquez and Mendoza.

His decision states Vasquez "recalls feeling threatened and intimidated" in one of two hotel meetings. "Whether justified or not," she refused to sign an operating agreement with Halow's team at that time, Aiken wrote. The decision said Vasquez then claimed Halow had felonies on his record and other issues that prohibited her from partnering with him. But Aiken found Halow's record didn't contain "excludable" felonies and rejected her other defenses.

He determined that Vasquez had "secretly," and wrongly, sold Juicy Joint's ownership of the license for $2.7 million to a company operated in part by Moe Asani of Tucson's Downtown Dispensary. Without the license, under state law, Juicy Joint couldn't operate a marijuana business.

"Under either partnership or fiduciary duty law, she breached her duties of care and loyalty to Juicy Joint," Aiken wrote in the decision.

Mendoza said he had received 30% gross of the $2.7 million as a "loan" in case a plan to start a dispensary with Asani takes root.

The arbitrator's decision reversed the deal with Asani, gave the license back to Juicy Joint and removed Vasquez from Juicy Joint. The company name is now tied to the new Story of Kingman dispensary.

Story Cannabis, which runs the dispensary, controls six of the 26 social equity licenses, more than any other company. Neither Halow nor Jason Vedadi, the CEO of Story Cannabis, returned calls from The Arizona Republic.

The company formed by Asani and Vasquez sued Halow, Juicy Joint and its other partners and the state health agency, which Vasquez and Mendoza blame for meddling in the case to the benefit of Halow. The case is set for oral arguments on Feb. 6 in Maricopa County Superior Court.

Mendoza said Halow is suing him separately for aiding Vasquez in trying to take away the license.

Vasquez still owns 51% of the license, and therefore 51% of the proceeds from any future sale of the license, he said. Mendoza believes Halow won't make it that easy for them.

"Mike doesnt plan on giving us a penny," Mendoza said. "He wants to bury us and leave us in the street."

Companies came out on top

Steve White, the retired co-founder of Harvest cannabis stores, sunk $1.8 million into the marijuana legalization propositions campaign. He said he discussed the issue at length with the measures other authors but found there was no model where social equity worked well.

He acknowledged their plan included letting the DHS make the rules for the program, adding he had hoped the agency would give applicants more time to find sources of capital for their businesses.

The list of social equity license operators includes big names in the industry, such as Story Cannabis, Nirvana, JARS, Copperstate Farms/Sol Flower and Mint Dispensary, but not Harvest or Trulieve, which acquired Harvest in 2021.

We chose not to put resources into that, White said. As the largest contributor to the initiative, he said it would have been really hard to explain becoming a beneficiary of a social equity program.

He doesnt blame the other companies for taking over the licenses, saying they just did what the rules allowed. As for the original license holders, they did better than they could have done without the program, he said, even if the main vision of the program wasnt achieved.

Mint Dispensary owned several dispensaries in metro Phoenix before acquiring rights to four social equity licenses.

"My PR firm would probably not want me to tell you much," said Raul Molina, Mint's chief operating officer. "The system is not how it should have been."

For some original applicants, the program "didn't pan out as well for them as they could have because of who they dealt with," he said. "I've heard some horror stories."

Those who negotiated with Mint walked away "content," according to Molina. He can't say much about the deals because of nondisclosure agreements, but they involved "life-changing" amounts of money, he said.

In one case, a social equity license winner made a deal with Cookies, a multistate cannabis operator. The winner didn't have the resources to open a business himself, and he and Cookies ultimately sold the license to Mint for $7.5 million, Molina said.

Another case involved a license holder who formed a company called "Woodstock 1" and entered into a management agreement with Mint. For the next several years, Mint will "pay them a large amount."

"Whether we do well or not, they're making money," Molina said. "They are happy to still have the license."

Laura Avila, listed in state Corporation Commission records as one of the three principals of Woodstock 1, said she is happy with the Mint deal but declined to answer other questions.

Proposed: Drive-thru cannabis could be coming to Scottsdale, if officials sign off

El Mirage entrepreneurs eschew corporate help

Abel Ochoa and his cousin opened the only social equity dispensary in Arizona that isn't affiliated with an existing dispensary company.

Ochoa and Pinedas El Mirage dispensary, Deeply Rooted Boutique Cannabis Company, is the outlier.

On a recent winter day, Ochoa sat in the cluttered back office of the tiny dispensary, talking about the company's next steps. At 30, hes a former budtender and cannabis cultivator for local dispensaries who has used his connections to hire experienced employees, who he said were the lifeblood of the organization.

He said those experienced employees work hard, "so they deserve a lot of the recognition as well."

He has taken inspiration from his father, who told him to learn the business inside and out. Starting the dispensary from scratch has been so difficult, he said, that he "cried myself to sleep" some nights trying to figure things out.

He has entered into sales partnerships to sell numerous brands of marijuana flowers, concentrates, edibles and other products found in the corporate dispensaries. The company's goal is to focus on high-quality service and products. One crucial trick will be to keep their prices low enough to avoid being stomped by bigger retailers who can use economies of scale to offer better discounts.

Deeply Rooted will soon move from its current location to a larger shop.

Long term, Ochoa and his cousin plan to start their own cannabis brand and eventually get a cultivation facility up and running. His team had to move into their current location to meet DHS' October opening deadline, but it was always planned to be temporary. He and his staff are refurbishing a long-vacant auto shop across the street that will open soon as the permanent dispensary.

Adding to his long list of problems: The land surrounding the new location is eroding, which could lead to a potentially pricey fix. He sees the many challenges as just part of his "journey."

I was able to prove a lot of people wrong based on just my work ethic and to never give up, he said. We created this as a team. Were building something that you don't see a lot of.

Reach the reporter at rstern@arizonarepublic.com or 480-276-3237. Follow him on X @raystern.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: AZ social equity cannabis licenses mainly benefited dispensary giants
A pedestrian walks past the logo of Australia's biggest investment bank Macquarie Group Ltd which adorns a wall on the outside of their Sydney office headquarters in central Sydney, Australia

By Lewis Jackson

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia's Macquarie Group said on Monday it had raised more than 8 billion euros ($8.72 billion) for a new European infrastructure fund as investor appetite for tangible assets from ports and power to data centres remains strong.

The seventh European Infrastructure Fund raised money from more than 100 investors including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds according to a statement published on Monday, with more than 90% contributed by previous Macquarie investors.

"Continual investment is needed to develop the infrastructure that provides essential services to communities," Martin Bradley, head of infrastructure for Macquarie Asset Management in Europe, said in the statement.

He added that the fund, which Macquarie said had aimed to raise 7 billion to 8 billion euros, would enable the group to "play a meaningful role" in helping meet that need.

Institutional investors' enthusiasm for infrastructure is being stoked by soaring demand for logistics and digital infrastructure and the prospect of trillions more being spent as the world transitions away from high-carbon energy.

Earlier this month BlackRock agreed to buy Global Infrastructure Partners and its portfolio of assets including Britain's Gatwick airport and the Port of Melbourne for $12.5 billion.

Macquarie, the largest infrastructure manager globally, launched its first European infrastructure fund in 2004. The Sydney-based firm has approximately 542 billion euros in assets, of which some 170 billion are in infrastructure.

The seventh fund has already made three investments, including VIRTUS Data Centres and Vienna-headquartered parking provider Best in Parking AG.

($1 = 0.9171 euros)

(This story has been corrected to attribute the statement to Martin Bradley, not Adam Lygoe, in paragraph 3)

(Reporting by Lewis Jackson; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
The New Year is off to a busy start on the Delmarva Peninsula. From exciting grand openings to one saddening closure, the business scene is surely buzzing just a mere three weeks into 2024.

Check out what's new in the business world this week.

Ocean Pines

Smokin Sams BBQ

11070 Cathell Rd

A brand-new barbeque joint is officially open for business in Ocean Pines. Smokin' Sams BBQ, serving up authentic smoked barbeque with a Southern flair, can be found at 11070 Cathell Road. The restaurant celebrated its soft opening on Jan. 15.

"Sam's is smokin' the good stuff!" the restaurant shared online.

Smokin' Sams BBQ is operated by Sam and Suzee Nolan. The eatery's menu changes weekly. According to Smokin' Sams BBQ's Facebook page, the eatery is open 12 to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Mondays and closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

WHAT'S COMING IN 2024: Wawa, Starbucks and much more: a slew of new businesses coming to Delmarva in 2024

Salisbury

Atlantis Tattoo & Art Gallery

108 W Main St

Atlantis Tattoo and Art Gallery Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, at 108 West Main Street in Salisbury, Maryland.

Downtown Salisbury is now home to its newest tattoo shop  Atlantis Tattoo & Art Gallery. The shop, located at 108 West Main St., is open for tattoos and piercings.

The tattoo shop's owner, Mikey, is still currently building the art gallery portion and seeking nautical-related art donations, Downtown Salisbury shared in a Jan. 5 Facebook post.

There will be free admission to the art gallery. To book an appointment at Atlantis Tattoo & Art Gallery, customers may message the shop online or call 667-346-0799.

2023 BUSINESS OPENINGS: Wawa, Jersey Mike's and tons more new businesses in Salisbury, Ocean City in 2023

Berlin

Build Your Own Cookie

8430 Stephen Decatur Hwy

The new site of Build Your Own Cookie at 8430 Stephen Decatur Hwy Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in Berlin, Maryland.

Build Your Own Cookie is coming soon to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, an RV park located at 8430 Stephen Decatur Highway in Berlin. A grand opening date and hours of operations have yet to be announced.

The beloved ice cream shop offers customers warm, homemade cookies topped with ice cream. Build Your Own Cookie also serves up milkshakes, ice cream floats, sundaes, edible cookie dough and much more.

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NEW BUSINESS: A new brewery is hitting Berlin, Squeaky's original spot now closed | What's Going There

Good Reform

3 South Main St.

New store Good Reform Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, at 3 South Main Street in Berlin, Maryland. The store focuses on clothes for tweens and teens.

The small town of Berlin recently welcomed yet another brand-new business along Main Street  Good Reform. The tween and teen clothing shop is owned by Marie Fontello.

Good Reform, located at 3 South Main St., offers girls' clothing from sizes 8-14, as well as trendy accessories such as bags, cups and more. Store hours are posted weekly online.

NEW BUSINESS: Together Cafe to open in TidalHealth, new Pines convenience center | What's Going There

Milton

Sydneys Restaurant and Lounge

16388 Samuel Paynter Blvd #4

Sydneys Restaurant and Lounge in Milton has closed permanently after about four years in business. The restaurant opened in 2020 after the height of COVID and was founded by Anthony Lewis alongside his brother Elton, Patricia Lewis and Ed Waples.

"It's so hard to say goodbye. Thank you everyone for your patronage and support! Happy New Year!" said Sydney's Restaurant and Lounge in a Dec. 30, 2023, Facebook post. The American cuisine restaurant was located at 16388 Samuel Paynter Boulevard #4.

2023 CLOSINGS: In 2023, Delmarva said goodbye to iconic businesses, restaurants and more: What closed

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Ice cream shop for Berlin, Salisbury tattoo shop | What's Going There
The FAA has once again expanded its oversight into Boeings (BA) use of door plugs that may be defective, recommending new inspections of a 737 class jet.

As an added layer of safety, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is recommending that operators of Boeing 737-900ER aircraft visually inspect mid-exit door plugs to ensure the door is properly secured. The Boeing 737-900ER is not part of the newer MAX fleet but has the same door plug design, the FAA said on its website late Sunday night.

The FAA is recommending airlines conduct the inspection to ensure the door plugs remain secured via two upper guide track bolts and two lower arrestor bolts. Failure of the plug and its restraining bolts led to the mid-flight door plug blowout of an Alaska Airlines 737-9 Max flight in early January.

A Delta Air Lines Boeing 737 passenger jet aircraft landing at JFK International Airport in New York. (Nik Oiko/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images) (SOPA Images via Getty Images)

The Boeing 737-900ER, the plane referred to in the latest FAA safety memo posted Sunday night, was the last variant of the 737-NG jet, which was the predecessor to the updated 737 Max. Per Cirium (an aviation analytics firm) data via Reuters, there are 490 737-900ER jets in service, with Delta Air Lines (160), United Airlines (136), and Alaska Airlines (79) operating the vast majority of them.

While the 737-900ER will remain in service as the inspections take place, the latest FAA SAFO memo issued late Sunday is another reminder of the safety and reliability issues that affect Boeing and its door plug provider Spirit AeroSystems (SPR). Shares of both companies are trading lower today, continuing their slide since the start of the year.

Following the Jan. 5 incident on the Alaska Airlines flight and subsequent grounding of all 737-9 Max aircraft in the US on the following day, Boeing and the FAA have engaged in a regulatory back-and-forth as Boeing tries to get the Max in service.

On Jan. 9, Boeings efforts to get its grounded 7379 Max back in service hit a snag after the FAA said the company's instructions to airlines on how to inspect the planes were inadequate; Boeing was seen as rushing the process while airlines were finding loose bolts in panels during inspections.

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The safety of the flying public, not speed, will determine the timeline for returning the Boeing 737-9 Max to service, the FAA said at the time.

The FAA further clarified on Jan. 12 that the 737-9 Max will stay grounded until extensive inspection and additional data is provided from Boeing for returning the Max to service. The FAA also increased its oversight of Boeing production and manufacturing and launched an investigation to determine if Boeing failed to ensure completed products conformed to its approved design and in compliance with FAA safety regulations.

Failure of the plug and its restraining bolts led to the mid-flight door plug blowout of an Alaska Airlines 737-9 Max flight in early January. (NTSB via AP, file) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

On Jan. 16, Boeing named retired Admiral Kirkland Donald of the US Navy as independent adviser to lead a quality review of Boeings commercial quality management system, including practices at Boeing plants and Boeings oversight of supplier quality.

The addition of supplier quality foreshadowed more movement by the FAA on that front. A day later, the FAA on Jan. 17 expanded its investigation into the manufacturing practices at Boeing, as well as Spirit AeroSystems. This came after reports emerged that Spirit AeroSystems was allegedly cutting corners in its production process, leading to an excessive amount of defects.

After attending a town hall and touring Spirit AeroSystems facility in Wichita, Kan., later that day, Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun vowed things were going to change.

We're going to get better, not because the two of us are talking, but because the engineers at Boeing, the mechanics at Boeing, the inspectors at Boeing, the engineers at Spirit, the mechanics at Spirit, the inspectors at Spirit. They're going to speak the same language on this in every way, shape, or form. We're going to learn from it, and then we're going to apply it to literally everything else we do together, Calhoun said.

Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram.

Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
By Gabriel Burin

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Brazil's economy is set to cool this year, a Reuters survey found, amid an intensifying tug of war between the government and some lawmakers over which sector should pick up the tab for adjustments needed to meet ambitious budget goals.

Gross domestic product (GDP) increased more than expected in 2023 partly due to improved investor optimism over Finance Minister Fernando Haddad's efforts to rectify deep imbalances. But the picture on that front is now more mixed.

The country's fiscal side "remains the weakest link among its macroeconomic fundamentals," Rabobank analysts wrote in a report, warning of a possible rise in market risks if the government eventually admits a grimmer budget reality.

Growth in Latin America's No.1 economy is set to decelerate to 1.6% in 2024 vs. 3.0% in 2023, according to the median forecast of 50 economists polled Jan. 8-18. Estimates for this year ranged between 0.4% and 2.5%.

On the one hand, public spending could give the economy an extra boost from decisions to pay accumulated federal debt that had been in limbo and to implement smaller cuts in a special federal investment scheme known as "PAC."

"There are positive surprises with respect to recently approved fiscal measures, the settlement of accumulated court-ordered payments and spillover effects from the PAC program," said Joao Leme, an analyst at Tendencias consultancy.

However, overall fiscal trends are starting to cause concern, as outlays to fund President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's social plans continue to rise faster than federal revenues, despite different tax initiatives from Haddad.

Between January and November of 2023, the primary deficit reached 114.6 billion reais ($23 billion), reversing a 49.7 billion reais surplus for the year-ago period, with November's result undershooting expectations again.

Further weighing on the budget, lawmakers overturned last month a presidential veto on a bill approved by Congress that handed fiscal waivers to companies and municipalities totalling around 27 billion reais.

Story continues

In response, the government unveiled tax adjustments to limit benefits across various sectors through an executive order effective for four months, but still requires Congress approval to go beyond that period.

Also, the economic team began discussing the possibility of re-imposing unpopular taxes on imports worth up to $50, a measure likely to face complaints from retailers and consumers.

As disagreement mounts, Lula's administration is increasingly expected to miss its goal of reducing the primary deficit to zero. Median calls from eight banks compiled by Reuters showed it only falling to -0.8% of GDP from -2.2% in 2023.

"We do not expect the government to be able to close the deficit in 2024," said Flavio Serrano, chief economist at Banco BMG. "The government's biggest challenge will be to obtain revenue in an environment of real growth in mandatory spending."

Financial markets have mostly kept calm, with the local currency oscillating around 5.0 per U.S. dollar. The real should continue near that level for at least one month more as activity winds down for Carnival in February.

A first bimonthly report on revenue and expenditures due in March "will be critical in determining the size of the total budget freeze that would be necessary to ensure compliance with the zero target," said Roberto Secemski, a Barclays economist.

"Alternatively, it may reopen the discussion about possible changes to the target, which would hurt fiscal credibility."

Elsewhere in the region, the Mexican economy is expected to grow 2.2% this year, while Argentina's GDP is seen contracting 2.3%.

(For other stories from the Reuters global economic poll:)

($1 = 4.9279 reais)

(Reporting by Gabriel Burin in Buenos Aires; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Azerbaijan and the World Bank have discussed the General Development Plan of Baku City until 2040, Azernews reports, citing the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture.

The Committee's chairman Anar Guliyev reportedly met with the World Bank's Regional Director for Sustainable Development of Europe and Central Asia Sameh Vahba.

At the meeting, A.Guliyev broadly spoke about the path travelled so far in the field of urban planning of Azerbaijan, cardinal reforms, achievements and important goals carried out in this field in recent years. Having informed in detail about the new General Plan of Baku City, developed on the basis of modern town-planning standards, the Committee Chairman spoke about the concept and priorities of the document for sustainable development of the capital till 2040.

It was also noted at the meeting that it is of great importance that this year Azerbaijan will host such major international events as the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) and the World Urban Forum (wuf13) to be held in 2026, and that obtaining this right is a vivid example of successful large-scale projects and reforms carried out in Azerbaijan.

Chairman of the Committee also spoke about numerous urban development projects carried out in the territories liberated from occupation within the framework of the state programme "Great Return", noted that these works have already become a source of unique experience, important steps have been taken at the state level for comfortable living of the population, which is gradually returning to the homeland.

S.Vahba, in turn, expressed his congratulations on the approval of the General Plan of Baku, as well as the holding of international events in this city. He emphasised Azerbaijan's role in the field of urban development and in the ever-increasing international scale of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, and expressed confidence that reconstruction of cities and villages, implementation of joint projects with the World Bank in various directions will contribute to the realisation of the "new urban agenda".

The sides then discussed the possibilities of implementing joint projects in Azerbaijan in the fields of urban sustainability, renewable energy, climate change, greening and digitalisation, prospects for bilateral cooperation in various fields and other potential cooperation opportunities.
Defebo

Visit Sarasota County has promoted Kelly Defebo to vice president of marketing and communications.

She is responsible for overseeing all marketing, public relations and special projects for the destination. She will also maintain oversight on all international marketing programs and will liaise closely with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport on marketing and programming. Defebo has been with VSC since 2008, most recently as director of sales and marketing and previously as director of sales and as meeting and group sales manager. She has led the sales department in generating millions annually in Tourist Development Tax revenue and increasing economic impact for Sarasota County.

Under her leadership, VSC earned the 2023 and 2020 ConventionSouth Readers Choice Award for excellence in service and professionalism in the meetings industry. A graduate of University of Florida with a bachelors in advertising, Defebo also holds a diploma in marketing communications from the International Advertising Association and the Convention Industry Councils Certified Meeting Professional designation, the foremost certification of the meetings industry.

Earley

Firm enters wealth-building arena

CEO Ronald Earley has announced the launch of his new company, Greywolfe Investing LLC, in Sarasota.

After six successful years in the wholesale industry, Earley is unveiling a best-in-class e-commerce investment management service positioned as a dynasty of wealth creation that surpasses conventional paradigms.

Greywolfe Investing's entry into the online wealth-building arena represents a bold proclamation of the firms commitment to defying financial industry norms.

Earley believes in giving back to his community and has been actively involved in numerous charitable initiatives, from hurricane relief to developing a financial literacy program. His acts of service have garnered the attention of the local Sarasota government. He was honored with the key to the city of Sarasota by the mayor in late 2022.

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Mount

New coordinator at Temple Emanu-El

Temple Emanu-El recently hired Marni Mount as coordinator for Bnai Mitzvah and the Tot Shabbat program for young Jewish and interfaith families.

Although Temple Emanu-Els Tot Shabbat program has long thrived in the able hands of Associate Rabbi Michael Shefrin and Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman, its dramatic growth put another professional on the congregations wish list.

Mount brings energy, expertise and a welcoming spirit to the events and the young Jewish and interfaith families the program serves.

Mount serves as the facilitator of Temple Emanu-Els re-launched Parent and Me, which meets Friday mornings for very young children and their grownups.

Mount also works with Glickman, Shefrin, Religious School Director Snait Ben-Herut and older Temple Emanu-El students and families, providing essential engagement and expertise to help the Bnai Mitzvah experience run smoothly and meaningfully.

Im excited to be part of the process, said Mount.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Longtime employee at Visit Sarasota rises to VP of marketing
It is usually uneventful when a single insider buys stock. However, When quite a few insiders buy shares, as it happened in Cadiz Inc.'s (NASDAQ:CDZI) case, it's fantastic news for shareholders.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares.

View our latest analysis for Cadiz

Cadiz Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by insider Maria Jelescu-Dreyfus for US$350k worth of shares, at about US$3.50 per share. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being US$2.58). Their view may have changed since then, but at least it shows they felt optimistic at the time. 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.

In the last twelve months Cadiz insiders were buying shares, but not selling. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction!

Cadiz is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

Cadiz Insiders Bought Stock Recently

There was some insider buying at Cadiz over the last quarter. CEO & Chairman Susan Kennedy bought US$19k worth of shares in that time. We like it when there are only buyers, and no sellers. However, in this case the amount invested recently is quite small.

Insider Ownership

For a common shareholder, it is worth checking how many shares are held by company insiders. Usually, the higher the insider ownership, the more likely it is that insiders will be incentivised to build the company for the long term. From our data, it seems that Cadiz insiders own 4.8% of the company, worth about US$8.3m. However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. We do generally prefer see higher levels of insider ownership.

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So What Does This Data Suggest About Cadiz Insiders?

Insider purchases may have been minimal, in the last three months, but there was no selling at all. The net investment is not enough to encourage us much. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. We'd like to see bigger individual holdings. However, we don't see anything to make us think Cadiz insiders are doubting the company. So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. To help with this, we've discovered 4 warning signs (2 are potentially serious!) that you ought to be aware of before buying any shares in Cadiz.

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.
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, RELX fair value estimate is UK27.88

With UK32.80 share price, RELX appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

Our fair value estimate is 18% lower than RELX's analyst price target of UK33.92

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of RELX PLC (LON:REL) by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple!

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. 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 RELX

The Method

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) UK2.37b UK2.56b UK2.66b UK2.88b UK3.00b UK3.09b UK3.17b UK3.24b UK3.31b UK3.37b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x7 Analyst x7 Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 3.03% Est @ 2.58% Est @ 2.26% Est @ 2.04% Est @ 1.88% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 7.0% UK2.2k UK2.2k UK2.2k UK2.2k UK2.1k UK2.1k UK2.0k UK1.9k UK1.8k UK1.7k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK20b

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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 1.5%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.0%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = UK3.4b (1 + 1.5%)  (7.0% 1.5%) = UK63b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK63b ( 1 + 7.0%)10= UK32b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK52b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of UK32.8, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

LSE:REL Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 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. 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 RELX as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.923. 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 RELX

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 Professional Services market.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Opportunity

Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the British market.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the British market.

Next Steps:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. 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 RELX, we've put together three fundamental aspects you should further research:

Risks: Be aware that RELX is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis , you should know about... Future Earnings: How does REL'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 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.
The Oklahoma City area is seeing a rise in colorful car washes, like this Coulter Express one at 10720 N May Ave. in The Village.

It's a wonder there are any dirty cars in Oklahoma City  or anywhere else in the country.

OKC is crawling with car washes  or conveying with them, since the new ones are the automatic kind that use conveyors to move cars through a tunnel. Car wash construction and investment are booming everywhere.

A Google search shows about 150 car washes, old and new, of all kinds, in the metro area.

Oklahoma City alone has added just more than 100 car washes since 2019, city records show. That's when construction took off. The city issued building permits for just four washes in 2018, then 21 in 2019, 11 in 2020, 28 in 2021, 23 in 2022, and 19 in 2023.

But it's not necessarily all because of consumer demand.

"It's absolutely boomed. The real driver has been private equity funds, they're funding it," OKC retail property broker Mark Inman said, referring to pooled investments by companies and organizations that invest for others.

Indeed, "Private equity investor involvement in the car wash industry is at all time highs. Institutional investors and funds have recently come into the sector in both new and monumental ways," according to Car Wash Advisory, a Florida-based consultancy for company mergers and acquisitions.

Coulter Express Carwash is at 10720 N May Ave. in The Village.

The car wash industry is booming. What makes car washes such hot investments? It's not like 'Breaking Bad'"'

The proliferation of car washes here and elsewhere has launched loads of social media speculation that they are money laundering operations, as one was used in the hit television series "Breaking Bad."

But experts say no, saying they're better suited as real estate investments and not for laundering large amounts of illegally gained cash. Oklahoma law enforcement officials said drug dealers have other ways to launder their money.

It comes down to legitimate cash flow, said Inman, senior vice president and retail real estate specialist with CBRE Group in Oklahoma City.

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Emphasizing memberships rather than one-off washes "guarantees monthly income" making them easier to finance, propelling growth, Inman said.

"That has made it to where these car washes can go after better real estate, and that means better sales," Inman said. "It's a race," with developers posting "coming soon" signs at the first indication of dirt work not only to alert passersby but to discourage other developers from opening nearby.

That doesn't always work. Two are under construction nearly next door to one another near the southwest corner of NW 164 and Western Avenue, with one in operation a mile north at the southwest corner of NW 178 and Western.

Most new washes are eye-catching, with bright color schemes, unusual architecture and lighting.

"There was a shift from smaller, older, low-quality and uncared-for car washes to these large state-of-the-art tunnel car washes. They are cash cows," said Sam Swanson IV, director and president of retail for OKC's NAI Sullivan Group.

Okie Express Auto Wash is at 2810 E Memorial Road.

With new car washes, membership has its privileges

Memberships made the difference, said Kelley Chambers, director of research for OKC real estate brokerage Newmark Robinson Park. For example, Charlie's Car Wash, based in Salina, Kansas, with washes in Warr Acres and Yukon, has plans starting at $25 per month for unlimited washes.

Cost depends on the level of service. Club Carwash, based in Columbia, Missouri, with 10 OKC-area locations, offers unlimited washes for $20 to $40 per month, compared with single washes from $10 to $25.

"Gone are the days of occasionally stopping by a car wash and pumping quarters into the box to clean your ride  although some of those still exist, but who wants the hassle?" Chambers said. "People want to feel pampered, and the business model is rather ingenious.

"You can't buy a monthly subscription at Chick-fil-A and stop by to eat all you want."

Plus, new automated car washes are fast, he said.

"Full-service washes like Charlie's offer more services and staff, but they can get your interior and exterior done and get you on your way quickly. No hanging around like at a car dealership service center, drinking stale coffee, and watching bad TV," Chambers said.

Can the car wash boom be sustained?

Swanson said construction seems to have slowed recently because of so much competition for customers and rising building costs.

Chambers said retail property brokers at Newmark Robinson Park were surprised that so many new washes have opened the past five years, and that new ones keep opening.

"Can we continue to support all of these? I don't know," he said.

Whether or not there's a glut on the car wash market, Inman said, "It's like any other business. Some are managed well, and some not."

Okie Express Auto Wash is at 2810 E Memorial Road.

Why the car wash industry is on fire in OKC and across the US

More cars means more cars needing washed, and the number of cars per household is on the rise, according to Mark VII, a car wash equipment manufacturer based in Arvada, Colorado, outside Denver.

Other reasons cited by Mark VII include:

Customer demand for more convenience.

Environmental regulations that discourage people from washing their cars at home.

Car washes are profitable, requiring fewer employees, so a smaller payroll than many other services.

New technology and the membership, or subscription, model.

Sign Up: Weekly newsletter Real Estate with Richard Mize

Club Carwash, based in Columbia, Missouri, has 10 OKC-area locations, including this one at 2601 N Kelly Ave. in Edmond.

Senior Business Writer Richard Mize has covered housing, construction, commercial real estate and related topics for the newspaper and Oklahoman.com since 1999. Contact him at rmize@oklahoman.com. Sign up for his weekly newsletter, Real Estate with Richard Mize. You can support Richard's work, and that of his colleagues, by purchasing a digital subscription to The Oklahoman. Right now, you can get 6 months of subscriber-only access for $1.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Why are there so many car washes? OKC industry on the rise
Federal health officials announced a salmonella outbreak tied to cantaloupes that claimed six lives and sicked more than 400 people has ended.

"Recalled cantaloupes are no longer available for sale and are past their use-by dates," the Centers For Disease Control posted on X Friday.

Since November, 407 people in 44 states fell ill after eating the melons affected in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported.

Of those who became ill, 158 were hospitalized, the CDC reported.

The CDC announced in January 2024, a salmonella outbreak tied to cantaloupes that claimed six lives and sickened more than 400 people has ended.

Recall Costco brand added as illnesses rise in charcuterie meat Salmonella recall

Fruit also sold in Canada sickening dozens

The fruit was also sold in Canada in the following provinces: British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Health officials there said dozens of people were hospitalized after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency first issued the fruit recall warning Nov. 1.

The Salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupes is over. Recalled cantaloupes are no longer available for sale and are past their use-by dates. Learn more about this outbreak at: https://t.co/uPp1P2UcD9 pic.twitter.com/OrM0FEXR3H  CDC (@CDCgov) January 19, 2024

What is salmonella?

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and fatal infections in children, the elderly, and other people with weakened immune systems, according to the C. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever 12- 72 hours after eating a contaminated product.

Most people recover without treatment, but in rare circumstances the infection can require hospitalization, the health agency said. Pregnant women are also at higher risk of developing an infection from it and should seek medical attention if symptoms arise.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupes is over
The use of cheques in the city could end as the Hong Kong Association of Banks (HKAB) works out a road map this year to phase it out amid an irreversible shift to electronic payments.

Electronic payment methods have taken off, said Luanne Lim, chairwoman of HKAB, pointing to PayMe, Faster Payment System (FPS) and e-wallets such as Alipay and WeChat Pay.

"It is time to consult the industry and develop a transition road map for the demise of the cheque," said Lim in her first media briefing last week after taking over the role at HKAB this month.

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.

Three years of Covid has pushed the public towards digital payments, leading to a decline in the use of cheques, said Lim, who is also the Hong Kong CEO of HSBC. The HKAB's chairmanship is rotated annually between the bosses of HSBC, Standard Chartered and Bank of China (Hong Kong), the three note-issuing banks in the city.

Hong Kong Association of Banks' chairman and HSBC Hong Kong CEO, Luanne Lim, briefed the media on Wednesday after the association hosted its first meeting of the year. Photo: Sun Yeung alt=Hong Kong Association of Banks' chairman and HSBC Hong Kong CEO, Luanne Lim, briefed the media on Wednesday after the association hosted its first meeting of the year. Photo: Sun Yeung>

Lim said it had not yet been decided if the payment method would be totally phased out. The issue will be discussed by a task force set up by the HKAB to explore various possibilities and options to work out a road map to encourage cheque users to shift to digital payments.

There are concerns about what options would be available to cheque users, she said.

Cheque transactions in Hong Kong shrank to HK$488.6 billion (US$62.5 billion) in December, a decline of 13 per cent year on year, according to data from Hong Kong Interbank Clearing.

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Compared with August 2018, a month before FPS was introduced to enable instant, costless transfers, the use of cheques had slumped by 34 per cent.

Transactions via FPS, which allows consumers to transfer money between different banks via mobile phones, stood at HK$430.24 billion in December, an increase of 39 per cent year on year. FPS transaction volumes have jumped 12-fold since its launch in September 2018.

Since the first cheque was issued in Britain in 1695, the payment method has been widely used for money transfers and business transactions.

Many countries are moving ahead with plans to consign cheques to history amid the emergence of digital payment methods. Singapore and Australia have announced a timeline to end the instrument's use, but a similar plan mooted in Britain in 2009 was abandoned because of public opposition.

Australia will phase out government use of cheques in 2028 before winding down the system by 2030, according to the Australian government's announcement in June, which said cheque use had declined by 90 per cent over the past 10 years.

Singapore will scrap corporate cheques by 2025, but allow individual use, with banks charging users a fee since November, according to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Cheque transactions in the city state sank 70 per cent from 2016 to 2022.

"With the fixed cost incurred in cheque clearing, the average cost of clearing a cheque has quadrupled since 2016 to S$0.40 (US$0.3) in 2021," the MAS said, pointing out that the cost will increase to between S$2 and S$6 by 2025 amid a further decline in usage.

In Hong Kong, it cost about HK$15 (US$1.9) to process each cheque in 2015, according to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, which stopped updating the data since then. It then cost the banking industry about HK$2 billion a year.

The UK experience shows that the cheque's demise has been delayed for the time being. The UK Payment Council in 2009 once considered abolishing cheques from 2018, but shelved the idea in the face of strong opposition from the public, as many small businesses and charities still use cheques.

Still, the use of cheques in the UK declined to 150 million leaves in 2021, a decline of more than 80 per cent from 10 years earlier, government data showed, while it is projected to fall further to 70 million leaves in 2031.

Meanwhile, Lim said the HKAB this year will organise visits to Southeast Asian countries to build connections and explore new opportunities, with the first trip to Thailand at the end of this month.

As the macro economy continues to be full of uncertainties, it is imperative to promote Hong Kong and build relationships in overseas markets, she said.

The HKAB will explore opportunities in the Middle East after signing a cooperation agreement with the United Arab Emirates in December.

Anti-fraud, talent training, and fintech development are on the HKAB's development agenda this year, Lim said.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Russia surpassed Saudi Arabia to become Chinas largest oil supplier in 2023, according to the latest Chinese customs data.

The worlds largest crude buyer imported a record amount of bargain-priced Russian oil last year, taking advantage of Moscows desperate search for new buyers amid Western sanctions following the Kremlins 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The volume of Russian crude shipped to China jumped 24% in 2023 to 107.02 million metric tons, compared to 2022, according to data released by Chinas General Administration of Customs on Saturday.

That helped Russia overtake Saudi Arabia as Chinas largest crude oil supplier for the year. The Middle Eastern country shipped 85.96 million metric tons of crude oil to China in 2023, down 2% from 2022.

Russia now accounts for 19% of Chinas oil imports, while Saudi Arabia makes up 15%.

Russia became Chinas largest oil supplier eight years ago, but it fell behind Saudi Arabia between 2019 and 2021, when the Gulf nation boosted its energy trade with Beijing.

However, since 2022, China has amplified its purchase of cheaper Russian oil after the West hit Moscow with unprecedented sanctions. Chinas imports of Russian crude increased 8% in 2022 to 86.24 million metric tons, compared to 2021. Its neighbor India also ramped up its purchases sharply.

China would necessarily maximize intake of discounted crude, said Vandana Hari, founder of Vanda Insights based in Singapore. Russian barrels were way cheaper than comparable grades through 2023, being limited to the Chinese and Indian markets, more or less.

Chinas total spending on Russian crude reached $60.64 billion last year. That translates to an average import price of $566.64 per metric ton, according to CNNs calculation. This was about 10% cheaper than the average price it paid for Saudi crude, which was $626.86 per metric ton.

Russias oil discounts have helped China reduce its energy bills. Despite an 11% increase in its overall volume of crude imports, including from Saudi Arabia and Iraq, its total spending on oil purchases actually dropped 7.7% in 2023 to $337.5 billion compared to 2022, customs data showed.

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According to Hari, Saudis production cut also helped Russia to leapfrog. The Gulf nation implemented an additional voluntary output cut of 1 million barrels per day from July through December last year. Though Russia also volunteered additional output and export cuts, they were about half of the Saudi reduction, she added.

China-Russia ties

Despite the war, Beijing and Moscow have developed closer ties in areas other than energy over the last two years.

Overall trade between China and Russia hit a fresh record high of $240 billion in 2023, up 26% from the previous year. That means the two countries have achieved a goal set in 2019 about a year ahead of schedule.

In the two years since the invasion, hundreds of global brands have fled Russia. Thats forced Russians to find alternatives for everything from smartphones to cars, with Chinese firms often benefiting.

Last month, Chinese leader Xi Jinping hailed Beijings partnership with Moscow in a meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

The trade figures showed a strong resilience and broad prospects, Xi said during the meeting in Beijing, according to Chinese state news agency Xinhua.

The two sides should give full play to the advantages of political mutual trust, and deepen cooperation on economy, trade, energy and connectivity, Xi added.

CNNs Juliana Liu and Simone McCarthy contributed to the article.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
China is rallying the Group of 77 developing countries to push for reform of the global governance system which - according to some leaders in Africa, Asia and Latin America - disproportionately favours the West.

Chinese vice-premier Liu Guozhong said on Sunday that developing countries "should jointly support the reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the international financial system".

Liu was speaking in Kampala at the third South Summit - the decision-making body of the 134-country G77 and China, which does not consider itself a member of the grouping. Uganda also assumed chairmanship of the group at the meeting, taking over from Cuba.

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.

China joins a growing list of countries, especially from Africa and Asia, that have been piling on the pressure for a reorganisation of the global political and economic order - especially the UN Security Council and the WTO, as well as the World Bank and the IMF.

The increasing calls for a review of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank are based on concerns that the structure, location and mandate of the Bretton Woods institutions are no longer fit to deal with changing global trends.

Front row, from left: Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui, Chinese Vice-Premier Liu Guozhong, and President of Equatorial Guinea Teodoro Obiang at the opening session of the G77 and China summit in Kampala. Photo: AFP alt=Front row, from left: Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, Algerian Prime Minister Nadir Larbaoui, Chinese Vice-Premier Liu Guozhong, and President of Equatorial Guinea Teodoro Obiang at the opening session of the G77 and China summit in Kampala. Photo: AFP>

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The US played an outsize role in the creation of the IMF and World Bank and continues to command considerable influence, as one of the largest shareholders in both organisations, which are also headquartered in Washington.

Liu's call to reform the WTO comes a few months after Chinese President Xi Jinping urged more effort in reforming the organisation, which has become the world's largest goods trader and a key partner for more than 140 countries since China joined in 2003.

Liu, who is attending the summit as Xi's special representative, said that it was crucial to make international development agencies more efficient in supporting countries in the Global South - broadly categorised as Latin America, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

"The collective rise of the countries of the Global South is unstoppable, yet the unjust and inequitable international political and economic order from the past continues to have lingering effects."

Liu said that, as part of China's initiative to reform the global financial system, Beijing had helped to establish the New Development Bank, the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Silk Road Fund.

These institutions are providing alternative lending for countries that cannot access international financial markets, and have funded multibillion projects in Asia and other overseas markets, he said.

Liu said developing countries, especially those in the Global South, should raise their representation and voices in meaningful ways to tackle the age-old problems of international governance.

At the same time, he urged developed countries to deliver on their development and climate financing commitments, and to speed up implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Goals Development (SGD) agenda.

"China supports countries of the south to realise common development," Liu said. He added that his country was doing its part, with investments through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative.

Liu highlighted the more than 3,000 belt and road projects, worth more than US$1 trillion, that China has bankrolled around the world in the past decade.

Xi had "underlined that China is a developing country and one of the Global South countries" and had stood with fellow developing countries "through thick and thin", Liu said. He added that South-South cooperation would continue to be a priority.

Liu's sentiments won support among the leaders present, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who was also encouraged by Liu to nominate a special envoy for poverty eradication.

In his address, Guterres said the international system is "out of date, out of time, and out of step, reflecting a bygone age when many of your countries were colonised".

"The United Nations Security Council is paralysed by geopolitical divisions. Its composition does not reflect the reality of today's world. It must be reformed," he added.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses delegates at the opening of the G77 plus China's third South Summit in Uganda on Sunday. Photo: Reuters alt=United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addresses delegates at the opening of the G77 plus China's third South Summit in Uganda on Sunday. Photo: Reuters>

The UN chief said the global financial system, including the Bretton Woods institutions, had failed to provide a global safety net for developing countries in distress.

But he added that the Summit of the Future, taking place in New York in September, would be considering "deep reforms" to the international financial architecture.

Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, told the gathering that multilateral organisations - including the United Nations and international financial institutions - must undergo urgent reforms to better recognise and leverage the significance of the Global South.

"We need an international financial system rooted in inclusion and equity, inspiring full commitment to multilateralism, fostering SDG-aligned investments, and breaking the vicious cycles of debt and interest for developing countries," Francis said.

In his first speech as chairman of the G77 and China, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni rallied the leaders to remain united in their demands to the international community - to support developing countries to urgently address global challenges such as poverty, hunger, the digital divide and climate change.

"As the G77 and China, we should continue to work collectively to ensure that we achieve an international economic order that is just and equitable, as envisaged 59 years ago at the founding of the group," Museveni said.

He added that Uganda supports the urgent reform of the international financial architecture to ensure that it is fit for purpose to respond to the financing needs of developing countries.

Since its inception in 1964 as a group of 77 developing countries, the G77 has promoted economic cooperation among its member states. Beijing has provided political and financial support to the grouping since 1994.

Seifudein Adem, an Ethiopian global affairs professor at Doshisha University in Japan, said that the G77 and China, like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), seeks to represent the interests of developing countries.

"China has almost ceased to be a part of the Third World. It is regarded today as a superpower. Yet some observers see China's interests as aligning or at least intersecting with the interests of G77," Adem said.

"Unlike the NAM, which suffered a crisis of purpose with the end of the Cold War, the raison d'etre of G77 remains valid," he said, pointing out that the international political and economic conditions which led to the G77's formation are still there.

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.
Western countries fear their microchips could fuel China's military development - Li Tao/Xinhua via AP

China has spent record sums stockpiling microchip equipment as Beijing races to supercharge its industry to beat US sanctions.

Official data shows China imported $10.6bn (8.3bn) worth of semiconductor equipment in the final three months of last year, analysts from Barclays said.

It comes as the US and other countries have blocked the sale of the most powerful microchips to China, fearing they will be used in sensitive areas such as the military, artificial intelligence and cyber security.

The Chinese state is investing heavily in developing its domestic industry in an attempt to overcome Joe Bidens sanctions. It celebrated a breakthrough last year when Huawei developed a high-end phone made largely with Chinese components.

Alicia Kearns, the chair of the Foreign Affairs select committee, said that China was seeking to boost its domestic industry to undermine Taiwan.

She said: By cracking Taiwans silicon shield and establishing semiconductor self-sufficiency, the Chinese Communist Party will use its position to establish geopolitical leverage and undermine our national security. Chips may sound insignificant or small, but they power our economies and the technologies in our lives.

Chinas purchase of $31bn in semiconductor equipment, despite export restrictions imposed by the UK, US and our allies, is troubling and demonstrates we must tighten our restrictions and close all loopholes.

Barclays said China was rushing to buy equipment ahead of a fresh wave of sanctions in early 2024.

We attribute this to Chinese players trying to buy as much advanced equipment as they can before updated export controls come in, the analysts said.

The purchases are believed to include high-end equipment from Dutch tech giant ASML, which makes advanced lithography machines needed to make the most intricate microchips.

Imports of these machines into China more than quadrupled at the end of 2023, reaching a record $2.7bn.

Britains total exports of semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China totalled around $314.6m last year, despite the Government blocking dozens of export licences.

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The UK is a relatively small player in exporting semiconductor manufacturing equipment but still sells abroad through companies such as SPTS and Oxford Instruments, which make machines for processing semiconductor wafers.

Data from the Department for Trade shows that 27 licence applications for exporting semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China were refused in the first six months of last year. Just six were issued and one licence was revoked.

The figures were in stark contrast to the prior year, when it had issued 11 licences and refused just two.

The $315m of equipment exported to China last year was down from the $353m in 2022, but more than double what was sold to the country in 2019, according to figures from Chinas General Administration of Customs.

The US has blocked sales of advanced chips, such as those made by Nvidia for artificial intelligence applications, to China.

This has led the country to invest billions into its domestic industry, although it is still seen as years behind the most-advanced chipmaking facilities, which are primarily in Taiwan.

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 delegation consisting of employees of companies belonging to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Bursa (Turkiye) visited the Sumgayit Chemical Industrial Park. The delegation included more than 15 companies from the chemical industry sector of Turkiye, Azernews reports.

In the course of the meeting, Deputy Chairman of the Economic Zones Development Agency Elkyar Ziyadov provided the representatives of the companies with information about industrial zones in Azerbaijan.

Deputy Chairman spoke about favourable investment opportunities, application of tax and customs privileges, as well as presented an overview of industrial zones. The Turkish delegation reciprocated by sharing information about their companies, activities and opportunities.

Moreover, the Turkish delegation had an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the ongoing developments in Sumgayit Chemical Industrial Park.
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, City Developments fair value estimate is S$11.12

City Developments is estimated to be 43% undervalued based on current share price of S$6.30

Analyst price target for C09 is S$7.88 which is 29% below our fair value estimate

Does the January share price for City Developments Limited (SGX:C09) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. 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 City Developments

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.

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:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (SGD, Millions) S$781.8m S$890.7m S$970.9m S$1.04b S$1.09b S$1.14b S$1.18b S$1.22b S$1.26b S$1.29b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Est @ 9.00% Est @ 6.91% Est @ 5.44% Est @ 4.41% Est @ 3.70% Est @ 3.19% Est @ 2.84% Est @ 2.59% Present Value (SGD, Millions) Discounted @ 12% S$698 S$710 S$691 S$659 S$620 S$578 S$535 S$493 S$453 S$415

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = S$5.9b

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The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 12%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = S$1.3b (1 + 2.0%)  (12% 2.0%) = S$13b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= S$13b ( 1 + 12%)10= S$4.2b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is S$10b. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of S$6.3, the company appears quite good value at a 43% 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.

SGX:C09 Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 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. 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 City Developments as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 12%, which is based on a levered beta of 2.000. 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 City Developments

Strength

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Interest payments on debt are not well covered.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Real Estate market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Singaporean market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Annual revenue is expected to decline over the next 3 years.

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. 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. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For City Developments, there are three essential aspects you should look at:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 4 warning signs for City Developments (1 is significant!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does C09'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 Singaporean stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Key Insights

Significantly high institutional ownership implies Cleveland-Cliffs' stock price is sensitive to their trading actions

The top 25 shareholders own 45% of the company

Analyst forecasts along with ownership data serve to give a strong idea about prospects for a business

To get a sense of who is truly in control of Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. (NYSE:CLF), 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 67% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

And so it follows that institutional investors was the group most impacted after the company's market cap fell to US$9.0b last week after a 4.3% drop in the share price. Needless to say, the recent loss which further adds to the one-year loss to shareholders of 14% might not go down well especially with this category of shareholders. Often called market movers", institutions wield significant power in influencing the price dynamics of any stock. As a result, if the downtrend continues, institutions may face pressures to sell Cleveland-Cliffs, which might have negative implications on individual investors.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Cleveland-Cliffs, beginning with the chart below.

See our latest analysis for Cleveland-Cliffs

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Cleveland-Cliffs?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

Cleveland-Cliffs already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. 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. 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 Cleveland-Cliffs, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

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Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Cleveland-Cliffs. The Vanguard Group, Inc. is currently the largest shareholder, with 10.0% of shares outstanding. BlackRock, Inc. is the second largest shareholder owning 9.9% of common stock, and State Street Global Advisors, Inc. holds about 4.4% of the company stock. Additionally, the company's CEO C. Goncalves directly holds 1.0% of the total shares outstanding.

Our studies suggest that the top 25 shareholders collectively control less than half of the company's shares, meaning that the company's shares are widely disseminated and there is no dominant shareholder.

Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

Insider Ownership Of Cleveland-Cliffs

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.

We can see that insiders own shares in Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.. The insiders have a meaningful stake worth US$154m. It is good to see this level of investment. You can check here to see if those insiders have been buying recently.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 32% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Case in point: We've spotted 2 warning signs for Cleveland-Cliffs you should be aware of, and 1 of them doesn't sit too well with us.

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.
Before Jan. 10, the only means of gaining true Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) exposure was by directly purchasing the cryptocurrency off of an exchange, such as Coinbase Global (NASDAQ: COIN). But now investors can buy shares of one of 11 newly approved spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) through conventional brokerages.

This has created some concern that the ETFs could jeopardize one of Coinbase's main uses and source of income. However, this assumption fails to paint the full picture. Here's why the ETFs will likely be a net gain for Coinbase over the long term.

Image source: Getty Images.

The new ETF landscape

With a crowded field of choices, investors have several options for picking which new Bitcoin ETF they want to buy. Recognizing this, providers are in the midst of a fee war in an attempt to remain competitive and attract buyers.

The majority of the ETFs have an expense ratio of 0% and offer fees lower than 0.4%, and some are waiving fees for a period of time. Compared to Coinbase, which charges anywhere from 1.5% to nearly 4% depending on the method of payment, cost-oriented investors would clearly opt for Bitcoin exposure via an ETF.

Here lies the potential problem concerned investors are pointing out. Based on the most recent earnings statement, Bitcoin transaction fees made up around 17% of Coinbase's total revenue. Historically, this number has tended to hover around 18% to 20%.

While Coinbase offers investors the ability to store purchased Bitcoins on a digital wallet, rather than merely owning shares of an ETF, this isn't a priority for everybody. For many investors, simply having exposure to the cryptocurrency in the form of an ETF is enough and the low fees make them an even better option. As these new ETFs become more popular among institutional and retail investors, Coinbase faces the likely reality that revenue from Bitcoin transactions will decline. But not all hope should be lost.

How Coinbase benefits from the ETFs

One of the more overlooked aspects of the recent approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs is the role that Coinbase plays. While media attention focused on the big names sponsoring the new funds -- like BlackRock, Fidelity, and Invesco -- a detail was glossed over.

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Out of the 11 Bitcoin ETFs now trading on the stock market, Coinbase serves as the custodian for eight of them. This means that Coinbase will benefit from two fees it charges. As the ETF providers buy and sell Bitcoins, Coinbase will receive a 0.2% fee. In addition, it also charges a fee to store those Bitcoins, with a varying cost structure depending on the total value in custody, ranging from 0.1% 0.2 %.

These might sound like minuscule numbers, but when considering just how much interest these ETFs have garnered in a short amount of time, those small percentages could begin to add up. Admittedly, we are still in the early days of Bitcoin's arrival on Wall Street, but it remains hard to dismiss just how much activity they are generating. Over the first three days of trading, the ETFs registered over $10 billion in volume. Furthermore, two of them -- BlackRock's and Fidelity's -- at the time of this writing ranked in the top five of total inflow among all ETFs during the past week.

Popularity of the ETFs trickled to Coinbase's platform as well. On the day the ETFs were approved, it registered more than $7.5 billion in Bitcoin transactions as investor interest skyrocketed. It was the second-largest single day of trading in the company's history.

Quantifying the impact

It's difficult to get hard numbers given the newness of the ETFs, but extrapolation of known fees and projected activity can shed some light on just how much money Coinbase could generate from its integral role.

One analyst firm estimates up to $30 million in custody fees annually for Coinbase. That isn't very much, considering that during the first three quarters of 2023 it generated over $2 billion in revenue. Yet this assessment overlooks one crucial aspect.

Coinbase charges custodial fees based on the total dollar value held in each account. Not the total number of Bitcoins. This holds significant implications over the long term. Should Bitcoin continue its journey of price appreciation -- a reasonable assumption due to its scarcity and current trajectory -- the underlying value of the funds held in custody will appreciate. Should Bitcoin double in price, Coinbase will see those fees double as well. If there is anything Bitcoin's short 15-year history has proved, it's that increases of this size can be a piece of cake.

The other aspect that remains even more difficult to quantify, but holds greater implications, is the ripple effect that will occur in the wake of the approval of these ETFs. There is truly no way to estimate how significant of an impact they will have, but one fact remains certain: The approval stands as a momentous accomplishment in Bitcoin's evolution and holds the potential to accelerate market adoption among institutions and eventually trickle down to retail investors. As we saw with the trading surge on its platform in the days after the ETFs got the green light, the legitimization of Bitcoin and crypto in general will inevitably attract more activity and cushion Coinbase's bottom line.

Considering the long term

While the threat of ETFs stealing Bitcoin transaction revenue warrants concern, the reality is that Coinbase's role as a custodian and position as an industry leader should prove capable of offsetting any declines. But of most importance is the landmark that the ETF approval is.

Now the world's most valuable cryptocurrency has a home on Wall Street, and some of the biggest names in the financial industry want a piece of it. As interest in other cryptocurrencies grows and development of new use cases progresses, Coinbase remains one of the key beneficiaries of crypto's evolution.

Should you invest $1,000 in Coinbase Global right now?

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ECO (ATLANTIC) OIL & GAS LTD.

("Eco," "Eco Atlantic," "Company," or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"

Government Approval for 6.25% Farm Out of Block 3B/4B to Africa Oil, Guyana Operational Update, and Appointment of Non-Executive Director

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 22, 2024 / Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (AIM:ECO)(TSXV:EOG), the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Azinam Limited ("Azinam"), has received final government approval for the farm out of its 6.25% Participating Interest in Block 3B/4B to Africa Oil Corp. ("Africa Oil") announced on 11 July 2023 (the "Transaction"). The Company also provides an operational update on entering next license phase for Orinduik block and confirms, further to its announcement of 2 January 2024, that Dr Oliver Quinn has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect.

Final Transaction Approval

The South Africa Department of Mineral Resources and Energy ("DMRE") and the Petroleum Agency South Africa ("PASA") have now provided Section 11 approval to assign and transfer a 6.25% Participating Interest in Block 3B/4B, offshore South Africa to Africa Oil SA Corp, a wholly owned subsidiary of Africa Oil. The Section 11 approval was the final consent required in order to complete the Transaction, and accordingly all requisite regulatory approvals and deeds in respect of the Transaction have now been signed and completed.

As per the terms of the Assignment and Transfer Agreement with Africa Oil (the "Agreement"), Eco has received further payment of US$2.5m from Africa Oil. Under the terms of the Agreement, upon a further farm out to a third party into Block 3B/4B Eco will receive a further payment of US$4m from Africa Oil and when the first well is spud an additional US$1.5m, will be due to the Company from Africa Oil.

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Orinduik License Operational Update

As Operator, Eco Orinduik BV, gave notice to the Minister of Natural Resources of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana ("MNR") to enter the Second Phase of the Second Renewal Period of the Orinduik License effective as of 14 January 2024. This Second Phase has a commitment to drill one exploration well to the Cretaceous formation during the remainder of the license period which ends on 13 January 2026. Further, Eco advised MNR last week that TOQAP Guyana B.V (the SPV joint entity held by TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy 60:40) has relinquished their 25% WI for strategic reasons and will not participate in the next phase, the former TOQAP Guyana B.V 25% WI will be assigned to Eco Guyana. Subject to the requisite government notifications, Eco will remain the Operator holding 40% WI in Orinduik License as Eco Guyana and 60% WI as Eco Orinduik BV.

Non-Executive Director Appointment

On 2 January 2024, the Company announced that Dr Oliver Quinn had been elected as a Director of the Company subject to completion of the due diligence by Strand Hanson, the Company's Nominated Adviser, in accordance with the AIM Rules for Companies and Nominated Advisers. The Company is pleased to confirm that the aforementioned process has now been completed and Dr Oliver Quinn has been appointed to Eco's Board with immediate effect as the nominee Director of Africa Oil, which holds 14.84% of the Company's issued share capital.

Dr Quinn was appointed as the Chief Commercial Officer of Africa Oil in September 2023, having previously been employed as Senior Vice President, Corporate Development at Kosmos Energy Ltd. Dr Quinn started his career at Shell and has 19 years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry. He is a graduate of the University of Manchester, where he studied for a BSc (Hons), Environmental & Resource Geology, and a graduate of the University of Edinburgh where he completed a PhD in Petroleum Science. While Dr Quinn replaces Keith Hill as Africa Oil's board nominee, the Board is pleased to confirm that Mr Hill has agreed to remain as a Non-Executive Director of the Company.

Gil Holzman, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:

"I am delighted to welcome Oliver to our Board. His extensive technical and commercial experience are an excellent addition for our Company entering into 2024 which is lining up to be a transitional year for the Company."

"With respect to Block 3B/4B, we are pleased to have received final approval from the South African Government for our transaction with Africa Oil, which now paves the way to completing a further farm out in respect of the Block and the drilling of our identified targets of up to five wells."

Colin Kinley, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:

"Knowing the material value and potential of Orinduik Block, Eco acquired Tullow's 60% WI and has remained focused on drilling a massive, stacked pay interval in the Southeastern quadrant of the block. Eco Atlantic now approved Operator intends to bring in new partners and to drill the significant potential of the Cretaceous interval on the Guyana oil fairway. With this well commitment, we now move into planning and engineering preparations to drill in next 12-18 months.

We feel extremely positive about the future of the Orinduik block, receiving significant interest from key industry partners and IOCs in our recently commenced farm out process. We will provide further updates to shareholders on operational and farm out progress throughout the year. Eco is grateful to the Government of Guyana and specifically the MNR for their collaborative efforts and support in enabling Eco to now progress towards drilling."

**ENDS**

For more information, please visit www.ecooilandgas.com or contact the following:

Eco Atlantic Oil and Gas c/o Celicourt +44 (0) 20 8434 2754 Gil Holzman, CEO

Colin Kinley, COO

Alice Carroll, Head of Corporate Sustainability Strand Hanson (Financial & Nominated Adviser) +44 (0) 20 7409 3494 James Harris

James Bellman

Berenberg (Broker) +44 (0) 20 3207 7800 Matthew Armitt

Detlir Elezi

Echelon Capital (Financial Adviser N. America Markets) Ryan Mooney

Simon Akit +1 (403) 606 4852

+1 (416) 8497776 Celicourt (PR) +44 (0) 20 7770 6424 Mark Antelme

Jimmy Lea



AIM Rules for Companies, Schedule 2(g) Disclosures

The following additional information is provided in accordance with paragraph (g) of Schedule Two of the AIM Rules for Companies.

Dr Oliver Francis Quinn (aged 45)

Current Directorships Past Directorships (in the last five years) Mater Christi Multi-Academy Trust Jadestone Energy (PHT GP) Lmited Medco Energi Thailand (Bualuang) Limited Medco Energi Thailand (E&P) Limited Ophir Indonesia (Kofiau) 2 LLC Ophir (Indonesia South East Sangatta) Limited Ophir Asia Limited Ophir Asia Pacific Pty Ltd Ophir Cote D'Ivoire (C1-513) Limited Ophir East Africa Holdings Limited Ophir East Africa Ventures Limited Ophir Energy Indonesia (ARU) Limited Ophir Energy Indonesia (Kofiau) 1 Limited Ophir Energy Indonesia (North Ganal) Limited Ophir Energy Indonesia (West Papua IV) 1 Limited Ophir Energy Indonesia Limited Ophir Equatorial Guinea (Block R) Limited Ophir Equatorial Guinea (EG-24) Limited Ophir Equatorial Guinea Holdings Limited Ophir Gas Marketing Limited Ophir Global New Ventures Limited Ophir Holdings & Services (UK) Limited Ophir Holdings & Ventures Limited Ophir Holdings Limited Ophir Indonesia (Kutai) Limited Ophir Indonesia (Madura Offshore) Pty Ltd Ophir Indonesia (North East Bangkanai) Limited Ophir Indonesia (Sampang) Pty Limited Ophir Indonesia (South Sokang) Limited Ophir Indonesia (West Bangkanai) Limited Ophir Indonesia (West Papua IV) 2 LLC Ophir LNG Limited Ophir Malaysia (Block 2A) Limited Ophir Mexico Holdings Limited Ophir Mexico Limited Ophir Myanmar (Block AD-3) Limited Ophir Pipeline Limited Ophir SPV Pty Ltd Ophir Tanzania (Block 1) Limited Ophir Tanzania (Block 3) Limited Ophir Tanzania (Block 4) Limited Ophir Vietnam Block 12W B.V. Salamander Energy (Bualuang Holdings) Limited Salamander Energy (Glagah Kambuna) Limited Salamander Energy (JS) Limited Salamander Energy (Malaysia) Limited Salamander Energy (North Sumatra) Limited Salamander Energy (S.E.Asia) Limited Salamander Energy Group Limited Salamander Energy Limited Santos Sabah Block R Limited

Dr Quinn currently holds no direct interests in the Company's Common Shares, although holds 31,750 common shares and 234,300 options over common shares in Africa Oil, a 14.48% shareholder in the Company.

There is no further information to be disclosed pursuant to Schedule 2(g) of the AIM Rules for Companies.

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of United Kingdom domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (as amended).

About Eco Atlantic:

Eco Atlantic is a TSX-V and AIM-quoted Atlantic Margin-focused oil & gas exploration company with offshore license interests in Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa. Eco aims to deliver material value for its stakeholders through its role in the energy transition to explore for low carbon intensity oil and gas in stable emerging markets close to infrastructure.

Offshore Guyana, in the proven Guyana-Suriname Basin, the Company operates a 75% Working Interest in the 1,800 km2 Orinduik Block. In Namibia, the Company holds Operatorship and an 85% Working Interest in four offshore Petroleum Licences: PELs: 97, 98, 99, and 100, representing a combined area of 28,593 km2 in the Walvis Basin.

Offshore South Africa, Eco is Operator and holds a 50% working interest in Block 2B and a 20% Working Interest in Block 3B/4B totalling some 20,643km2.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas Ltd.





View the original press release on accesswire.com




Elon Musk has admitted to being frankly naive about the extent of anti-Semitism in the West, adding that sympathy for pro-Hamas rallies at US universities blew my mind.

The billionaire owner of Twitter, now rebranded as X, made the remarks at an event with the European Jewish Association (EJA) following a visit to Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland, where at least one million Jews were murdered during the Holocaust.

The entrepreneur has been forced to grapple with allegations that he has failed to tackle online anti-Semitism since his takeover of Twitter. He has also been accused of fuelling an anti-Jewish conspiracy theory.

The Tesla boss apologised after appearing to endorse a conspiracy theory last year. Mr Musk replied to a Tweet that claimed Jewish people were engaged in stoking hatred against whites, calling the post the actual truth.

He later said the post was the worst and dumbest he had ever sent.

The billionaire has also repeatedly clashed with prominent anti-Semitism campaigners, including the Anti-Defamation League. Mr Musk has threatened to sue the group, which campaigns against hate speech and called for an advertising boycott of Twitter.

But speaking on Monday, Mr Musk said he had been somewhat frankly naive about anti-Semitism in the West. Mr Musk claimed that in the circles I move I see almost no anti-Semitism and added: Like two-thirds of my friends are Jewish.

Mr Musk laid a wreath and lit a candle - EJA/Yoav Dudkevitch via AP

But he added the pro-Hamas rallies in vast numbers that took place in almost every major city in the West blew my mind, including on the elite college campuses.

Some rallies calling for an end to the violence in Gaza have been marred by anti-Semitic placards and Hamas sympathisers.

US student groups at Harvard and other universities released statements blaming Israel for the terror attacks on October 7, which killed 1,200 people. More than 23,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israels invasion in response, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry.

Story continues

Mr Musk has claimed that phrases such as from the river to the sea, a slogan seen at pro-Palestinian protests, necessarily imply genocide.

The billionaire, speaking to US conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, also attacked US students and diversity culture in the West.

Diversity, equity and inclusion [DEI], these all sound like nice words, he said, what it really means is discrimination on the basis of race thus I think it is fundamentally anti-Semitic.

Mr Musk has been a prominent critic of the DEI movement, hitting out at efforts meant to improve representation, which he said are against merit. Always be wary of any name that sounds like it could come out of a George Orwell book, he said.

He added: We need to return to where things were, which is a focus on merit. What matters is how good are you at your job or what are your skills?

The Tesla boss met Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu in November last year - Amos Ben-Gershom (GPO) Handout via Getty Images

The billionaire added he had been disturbed to encounter anti-Semitic claims among some family members, not my kids.

The billionaires visit to Auschwitz comes as he battles warnings from activists that Twitter has been spurring online hate speech by rescinding bans on previously blocked accounts and loosening its moderation rules.

Twitter has also struggled to stem misinformation amid Israels war in Gaza. Mr Musk previously recommended that users follow two accounts on Twitter which had previously spread misinformation about the conflict in Gaza. He later deleted the Tweets.

However, the billionaire has insisted he is committed to fighting anti-Semitism online. In November, he met Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and visited Kfar Aza kibbutz, the site of a massacre by Hamas in its terror attack on October 7.

Mr Musk visited Auschwitz with his son, X, on Monday, and was photographed with the three-year-old on his shoulders at the camp. He laid a wreath and lit a candle as part of a memorial service.

He spoke at a conference for the EJA in the Polish city of Krakow, near the memorial, amid concerns over rising anti-Semitism as fighting continues in Gaza.

Mr Musk visited Auschwitz with Rabbi Menachem Margolin, the EJA chairman; Mr Shapiro; and holocaust survivor Gidon Lev, the EJA 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.
Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without any revenue, let alone profit. Sometimes these stories can cloud the minds of investors, leading them to invest with their emotions rather than on the merit of good company fundamentals. 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.

If this kind of company isn't your style, you like companies that generate revenue, and even earn profits, then you may well be interested in Singapore Exchange (SGX:S68). While profit isn't the sole metric that should be considered when investing, it's worth recognising businesses that can consistently produce it.

See our latest analysis for Singapore Exchange

Singapore Exchange's Earnings Per Share Are Growing

If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you'd expect a company's share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. Therefore, there are plenty of investors who like to buy shares in companies that are growing EPS. Over the last three years, Singapore Exchange has grown EPS by 6.6% per year. This may not be setting the world alight, but it does show that EPS is on the upwards trend.

Careful consideration of revenue growth and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margins can help inform a view on the sustainability of the recent profit growth. While we note Singapore Exchange achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 8.7% to S$1.2b. That's progress.

You can take a look at the company's revenue and earnings growth trend, in the chart below. To see the actual numbers, click on the chart.

SGX:S68 Earnings and Revenue History January 22nd 2024

The trick, as an investor, is to find companies that are going to perform well in the future, not just in the past. While crystal balls don't exist, you can check our visualization of consensus analyst forecasts for Singapore Exchange's future EPS 100% free.

Story continues

Are Singapore Exchange Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

We would not expect to see insiders owning a large percentage of a S$10b company like Singapore Exchange. But thanks to their investment in the company, it's pleasing to see that there are still incentives to align their actions with the shareholders. To be specific, they have S$60m worth of shares. This considerable investment should help drive long-term value in the business. Despite being just 0.6% of the company, the value of that investment is enough to show insiders have plenty riding on the venture.

Does Singapore Exchange Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

One important encouraging feature of Singapore Exchange is that it is growing profits. If that's not enough on its own, there is also the rather notable levels of insider ownership. These two factors are a huge highlight for the company which should be a strong contender your watchlists. What about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Singapore Exchange you should know about.

Although Singapore Exchange 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.
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. Unfortunately, these high risk investments often have little probability of ever paying off, and many investors pay a price to learn their lesson. A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.

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 Asbury Automotive Group (NYSE:ABG). 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 Asbury Automotive Group

How Fast Is Asbury Automotive Group Growing?

If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you'd expect a company's share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. That means EPS growth is considered a real positive by most successful long-term investors. Asbury Automotive Group's shareholders have have plenty to be happy about as their annual EPS growth for the last 3 years was 59%. While that sort of growth rate isn't sustainable for long, it certainly catches the eye of prospective investors.

Careful consideration of revenue growth and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margins can help inform a view on the sustainability of the recent profit growth. It's noted that Asbury Automotive Group's revenue from operations was lower than its revenue in the last twelve months, so that could distort our analysis of its margins. EBIT margins for Asbury Automotive Group remained fairly unchanged over the last year, however the company should be pleased to report its revenue growth for the period of 2.2% to US$15b. That's a real positive.

You can take a look at the company's revenue and earnings growth trend, in the chart below. For finer detail, click on the image.

Story continues

Of course the knack is to find stocks that have their best days in the future, not in the past. You could base your opinion on past performance, of course, but you may also want to check this interactive graph of professional analyst EPS forecasts for Asbury Automotive Group.

Are Asbury Automotive Group Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

It's pleasing to see company leaders with putting their money on the line, so to speak, because it increases alignment of incentives between the people running the business, and its true owners. Shareholders will be pleased by the fact that insiders own Asbury Automotive Group shares worth a considerable sum. To be specific, they have US$17m worth of shares. This considerable investment should help drive long-term value in the business. Even though that's only about 0.4% of the company, it's enough money to indicate alignment between the leaders of the business and ordinary shareholders.

Does Asbury Automotive Group Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

Asbury Automotive Group's earnings per share have been soaring, with growth rates sky high. 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. So based on this quick analysis, we do think it's worth considering Asbury Automotive Group for a spot on your watchlist. Still, you should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with Asbury Automotive Group (including 1 which is a bit unpleasant).

While opting for stocks without growing earnings and absent insider buying can yield results, for investors valuing these key metrics, here is a carefully selected list of companies in the US with promising growth potential and insider confidence.

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.
Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov met with Gordon Birrell, Executive Vice President for Production and Operation of BP on 20 January ,Azernews reports.

The Cabinet of Ministers press service reports that the meeting discussed the current situation and prospects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and BP, and noted the importance of projects implemented by BP in Azerbaijan.

The works carried out jointly with BP on construction of solar power plant in the territories liberated from occupation were considered.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Croda International is UK38.38 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of UK44.05 suggests Croda International is potentially trading close to its fair value

The UK49.65 analyst price target for CRDA is 29% more than our estimate of fair value

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Croda International Plc (LON:CRDA) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for Croda International

Step By Step Through The Calculation

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

Story continues

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) UK167.0m UK171.2m UK209.8m UK236.3m UK285.5m UK319.5m UK347.6m UK370.6m UK389.4m UK405.1m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x5 Analyst x5 Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x2 Est @ 11.91% Est @ 8.80% Est @ 6.61% Est @ 5.08% Est @ 4.02% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 7.4% UK156 UK148 UK169 UK178 UK200 UK208 UK211 UK209 UK205 UK199

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK1.9b

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 7.4%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = UK405m (1 + 1.5%)  (7.4% 1.5%) = UK7.0b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK7.0b ( 1 + 7.4%)10= UK3.4b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK5.3b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK44.1, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

LSE:CRDA Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 2024

The Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Croda International as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.4%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.993. 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 Croda International

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Chemicals market.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market.

Threat

Annual revenue is forecast to grow slower than the British market.

Next Steps:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Croda International, we've compiled three additional factors you should look at:

Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 1 warning sign for Croda International you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does CRDA'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.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for SKP Resources Bhd is RM0.65 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

SKP Resources Bhd's RM0.71 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

Analyst price target for SKPRES is RM0.96, which is 48% above our fair value estimate

Does the January share price for SKP Resources Bhd (KLSE:SKPRES) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

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.

Check out our latest analysis for SKP Resources Bhd

The Model

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 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 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) RM193.4m RM101.1m RM104.5m RM107.7m RM93.8m RM86.3m RM82.4m RM80.6m RM80.3m RM80.9m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Analyst x3 Analyst x1 Est @ -12.95% Est @ -8.00% Est @ -4.54% Est @ -2.11% Est @ -0.41% Est @ 0.78% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 11% RM174 RM81.7 RM76.0 RM70.5 RM55.2 RM45.7 RM39.2 RM34.5 RM30.9 RM28.0

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM636m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (3.6%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 11%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM81m (1 + 3.6%)  (11% 3.6%) = RM1.1b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM1.1b ( 1 + 11%)10= RM380m

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 RM1.0b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM0.7, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

KLSE:SKPRES Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 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. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at SKP Resources Bhd as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 11%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.120. 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 SKP Resources Bhd

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio.

Threat

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For SKP Resources Bhd, we've compiled three further items you should explore:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for SKP Resources Bhd that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does SKPRES'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.
Key Insights

Bucher Industries' estimated fair value is CHF396 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Bucher Industries' CHF354 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

Analyst price target for BUCN is CHF397 which is similar to our fair value estimate

How far off is Bucher Industries AG (VTX:BUCN) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple!

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 Bucher Industries

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. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

Story continues

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (CHF, Millions) CHF363.5m CHF257.3m CHF235.0m CHF221.3m CHF212.4m CHF206.4m CHF202.4m CHF199.7m CHF197.8m CHF196.6m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x4 Analyst x3 Analyst x1 Est @ -5.82% Est @ -4.05% Est @ -2.81% Est @ -1.94% Est @ -1.34% Est @ -0.91% Est @ -0.61% Present Value (CHF, Millions) Discounted @ 5.3% CHF345 CHF232 CHF201 CHF180 CHF164 CHF152 CHF141 CHF132 CHF125 CHF118

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = CHF1.8b

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 (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 5.3%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = CHF197m (1 + 0.08%)  (5.3% 0.08%) = CHF3.8b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= CHF3.8b ( 1 + 5.3%)10= CHF2.3b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is CHF4.1b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of CHF354, the company appears about fair value at a 10% 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:BUCN Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 2024

The Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Bucher Industries 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 5.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.040. 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 Bucher Industries

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Machinery market.

Opportunity

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 4 years.

Moving On:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. 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 Bucher Industries, we've put together three additional aspects you should consider:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Bucher Industries , and understanding it should be part of your investment process. Future Earnings: How does BUCN'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.
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, HiTech Group Australia fair value estimate is AU$2.19

HiTech Group Australia's AU$2.40 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

HiTech Group Australia's peers are currently trading at a discount of 21% on average

Does the January share price for HiTech Group Australia Limited (ASX:HIT) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for HiTech Group Australia

The Model

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$5.37m AU$4.96m AU$4.72m AU$4.59m AU$4.53m AU$4.52m AU$4.54m AU$4.58m AU$4.64m AU$4.71m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -11.88% Est @ -7.69% Est @ -4.76% Est @ -2.71% Est @ -1.27% Est @ -0.27% Est @ 0.44% Est @ 0.93% Est @ 1.28% Est @ 1.52% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 6.5% AU$5.0 AU$4.4 AU$3.9 AU$3.6 AU$3.3 AU$3.1 AU$2.9 AU$2.8 AU$2.6 AU$2.5

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$34m

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.5%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = AU$4.7m (1 + 2.1%)  (6.5% 2.1%) = AU$109m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$109m ( 1 + 6.5%)10= AU$58m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is AU$92m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of AU$2.4, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

ASX:HIT 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. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at HiTech Group Australia 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 6.5%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.883. 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.

Next Steps:

Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. 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 HiTech Group Australia, we've compiled three relevant aspects you should consider:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for HiTech Group Australia that you should be aware of before investing here. 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! Other Environmentally-Friendly Companies: Concerned about the environment and think consumers will buy eco-friendly products more and more? Browse through our interactive list of companies that are thinking about a greener future to discover some stocks you may not have thought of!

PS. 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.
Silver Star founder Allen Hartman and Silver Star CEO Gerald Haddock (LinkedIn, Getty, Silver Star)

Nepotism, unlawful meddling and mismanagement are just some of the accusations levied against Silver Star Properties founder and former CEO Allen Hartman. Now hes firing back.

Last month, Silver Stars executive committee, led by co-CEO Gerald Haddock, sued Hartman, accusing him of fraud, self-dealing and manipulation amounting to more than $50 million in damages, plus interest.

Hartman released a video to shareholders on Jan. 9 addressing Haddocks accusations. In the video, Hartman  who remains the companys largest shareholder  requests a shareholder meeting after accusing the executive committee of sidestepping that annual requirement. The Real Deal sat down with the embattled former CEO, who addressed ongoing litigation, responded to accusations and unpacked his response video. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Whats your reaction to the most recent lawsuit, seeking $50 million in damages, which lists your daughter Margaret Hartman and your wife, Lisa Hartman, as co-defendants?

I would never damage a company that I am a 15 percent owner in. This lawsuit is all about the executive committee trying to avoid having a shareholder meeting. In fact, they have damaged the company $50 million if not more by dropping the occupancy of Silver Stars holdings from 81 percent to 67 percent as of April. They dont know what theyre doing.

Nepotism accusations were thrown around regarding the elevation of your daughter in the company. Was she given preferential treatment and unduly elevated?

They just made up a job description for her that did not have one scintilla of truth in it. Lies regarding how her job caused employees to have low morale because she was being promoted. Everything is false. She had a low-level role with responsibilities typical of anyone else in her position. But, what does that tell you, that they would lie about it?

What has the shareholder response been to your video?

Its been extremely positive. We called the top 1,000 shareholders, and the vast majority are with us. The video is part of a revocation campaign for the consent solicitation that theyre doing illegally right now.

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What are they doing that you think is illegal?

Well, theyre breaking the law in a lot of different ways. Number one, they changed the bylaws to entrench and reelect themselves, which is illegal. You have to have shareholders vote to change the bylaws. Theyre afraid of having a shareholder meeting and have circumvented that, which is another way theyre breaking the law. The third is that the charter requires the company to be liquidated by April 2023.

In the video, you say former CEO Mark Torok was fired. The companys news release said he resigned for personal reasons. Are you disputing that account?

That is correct. Gerald Haddock had [CFO] Lou Fox fire Mark Torok. It was one of Haddocks schemes. When Lou Fox fired Torok, he left and walked out without notice, because he was so upset. Treadwell, the next CEO, walked out without notice, too. Now, the general counsel just left last week. Doesnt that tell you something about Haddocks management skills?

It was laid out to shareholders that part of what allowed the companys $300 million debt to accumulate was your failure to pay it down during your tenure.

I was gone 12 months before the debt was due. I really had nothing to do with the company. Even though Im on the board, they run the company by committee. Theyve isolated me from any communication. Ive received nothing. I have no idea whats going on in the company. Its 100 percent up to them, and they have had a year to replace the debt.

Did you borrow cash from Hartman vREIT XXI without board approval?

Yes, but it was an accounting record. I hadnt received the salary in about 20 years, and I was receiving a percentage of the distribution. When the distribution stopped, CFO Lou Fox failed to reclassify the money I was receiving as a salary. I got five months of income that should have been classified as a salary, but it was classified as distributions, but there were no distributions. I gave the money back and ended up getting a salary from then on.

Subsidiary Hartman SPE filed for bankruptcy, which Haddock said was an attempt to remove unlawful lis pendens. You admitted to placing the liens in a judgment. Why?

We think they were proper. We think they were legal. We thought we had the right to be able to have liens on the properties since we own a percentage of the company. However, we didnt see any real endgame keeping the liens on the property. So we went through, with the advice of my attorney, and withdrew the liens. It had no impact on them because they sold the assets anyway. It might have delayed things a month or two, but it had no impact other than that.

Whats your response to a separate lawsuit that claims you and your wife unlawfully solicited proxies to influence stockholders?

Wed sent them a letter early on threatening to solicit proxies. They didnt like the letter, so they filed the lawsuit. However, the letter was a threat to do it, not an admission of actually having done it. Now, weve filed everything appropriately in the state of Maryland to be able to talk to proxies. I think weve only had the list for about three weeks now, so we couldnt have done anything.

In our Q&A with Haddock, he said his issues with you were strictly business, and that he would gladly shake your hand. How do you view him?

Hes evil. Thats how I view him. The guys a madman. Hes a maniac. What else do you call someone who lies about me using the firm as a personal piggy bank? Haddock is doing everything he can to destroy me, individually. I mean, you dont file a lawsuit against somebodys wife and daughterthats just unheard of. Hes playing the devil is what hes doing.

[Haddock disputes these statements. We are overwhelmingly winning this proxy battle. We have absolutely followed Maryland law. [Hartman] didnt like it, and hes had trouble interpreting the law, Haddock said. I feel sorry for him. He is doing nothing with these types of statements but continuing to be vindictive. Bless his heart.]

In your view, what could be motivating Haddock to play the devil as you say?

Its 100 percent greed. Hes sucking the money out of the company and taking as much as he can. Hed do anything and tell any lie to accomplish that. He thinks he can get people to vote for him. Now Im having to respond to the lies.

Whats your relationship with Silver Stars co-CEO, Dave Wheeler?

Hes just a bump on a log and doesnt do anything. He cant do anything. He doesnt get anything done. I was getting ready to fire him because he failed to deliver financing after nine months, but the board said they didnt want me to fire him, so I didnt. He was unable to get things done time and time again.

[Wheeler took offense to Hartmans characterization.

Scapegoating is the sign of a failed leader, he said. Its prima facie ridiculous that he would say those things. He knows that I have come through for the company many times. Its really unfortunate that he would turn on folks  to protect himself and cover his own tracks ]

It sounds like youre unhappy with Silver Stars direction. What are your thoughts on the pivot to self-storage?

The business charter said the company must be liquidated in 10 years, and our 10th anniversary was last year. So the shareholders  including myself  are saying to the company, We need to liquidate, but the executive committee is saying, No, we want to keep your money and go into self-storage. Were saying its the wrong time to buy self-storage. We dont want to go into it; we just want our money back. Period. And thats the end of the story.

Haddock said theyve received complaints of you attempting to religiously influence employees. Is that true?

I know nothing about that. Weve had mens and womens Bible studies that were led by people other than me. It was just something that was done outside of business hours and something people liked. So we had probably a dozen people or more involved in both of them. People were invited: nobody was forced to do anything. We tried to be friendly to everybody.

Youve previously mentioned running your company on Biblical principles. How do you integrate your faith into your business?

I think you could sum that up in one word, and that is righteousness. Operating in a godly manner, where youre telling the truth, where youre honest with the people youre dealing with, and where you put the investors first. Lying doesnt fit that mold. Blatant bald-faced lies? Lies where they write a whole blown-up paragraph about my daughter? Lies that this was used as my personal piggy bank? Those are the lies Im talking about.

You were ousted from Whitestone REIT, another company you founded, in 2006. What lessons have you learned from these public battles?

Evil will come against you, and you just have to be aware of it. When people are evil, they want to do harm, and thats what they set out to do. I should have named a better board. Thats what happened then, and thats whats happening now.
By Sabrina Valle and Nate Raymond

HOUSTON (Reuters) -Exxon Mobil Corp on Sunday filed a complaint in a Texas court seeking to prevent a climate proposal by activist investors from going to a vote during the company's shareholder meeting in May.

This is the first time Exxon is seeking to exclude a shareholder proposal by filing a complaint in court. The case was assigned to a judge with a track record of ruling in favor of conservative causes.

Exxon says the investors are "driven by an extreme agenda" and that their repeated proposals do not serve investors' interests or promote long-term shareholder value. Investors led by U.S. activist investment firm Arjuna Capital and shareholder activist group Follow This are asking Exxon and other oil majors to adopt tighter climate targets.

They want Exxon to set so-called Scope 3 targets to reduce emissions produced by users of its products. Exxon is the only of the five Western oil majors which does not have such targets. Follow This in the past two years made similar proposals in shareholder meetings of different oil majors. It received a 28% approval from Exxon's shareholders in a 2022 voting, and 10% last year.

Exxon shareholders have already rejected scope 3 targets so it wants to exclude the proposal from its proxy statement. The activists pursued a strategy to "become shareholders solely to campaign" for changes "calculated to diminish the company's existing business," it said.

Follow This said shareholders should have a right to vote on whether Exxon should align emissions reductions targets with the Paris Climate Agreement, with any strategy of its choosing.

Such goals would create long-term value for shareholders by preventing risks of losing access to capital markets, of facing policy interventions, and incurring losses associated with stranded assets, Follow This founder Mark Van Baal said.

"The resolution leaves the strategy how to achieve emissions reductions entirely up to the board," he said.

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Arjuna has a fundamental right to voice concern over climate risk and its impacts on the global economy and shareholder value, Chief Investment Officer Natasha Lamb said.

JURISDICTION

Exxon is asking a U.S. District court in Fort Worth to exclude the proposal from its proxy statement.

The case on Monday was assigned to U.S. Judge Mark Pittman, an appointee of former President Donald Trump. Pittman's notable rulings include 2022 decisions declaring President Joe Biden's student debt relief plan to be unlawful and that Texas' ban on 18- to 20-year olds from carrying handguns was unconstitutional.

The case had been first assigned to U.S. Judge Reed O'Connor, an appointee of Republican former President George W. Bush with a track record of ruling in favor of conservative litigants challenging laws and regulations governing guns, LGBTQ rights and healthcare.

O'Connor recused himself from the case on Monday. He did not provide a reason, but his most recent publicly available financial disclosure report showed he held Exxon stock and his spouse had non-investment income from the company.

Exxon challenged U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission guidance on application of the rule that outlines the conditions under which shareholders can have proposals accepted. The guidance "can be at odds with the rule itself," it wrote.

Exxon is seeking a ruling by March 19. Its proxy statement needs to be filed by April 11, in time for its annual shareholder meeting in May.

(Reporting by Sabrina Valle; additional reporting by Nate Raymond; Editing by Richard Chang and Christian Schmollinger)
I feel like Im drowning: Arizona millennial works three jobs, still cant pay off her credit card bills. How to stretch your income, even when it feels impossible

Adulthood is often described as death and taxes. At least one millennial TikToker might also add that it includes non-stop bills.

Jourdan Skirha garnered three million views on a recent video, where she gets teary-eyed explaining how hard it is to afford life right now.

I feel like Im drowning and I dont know what to do, says the Arizona-based content creator.

Dont miss

She explains that her full-time job doesnt pay enough to cover her monthly bills, so shes got an additional two jobs on the side. Yet, she still cant pay off her credit card bill.

Skirha isnt alone. A 2023 Deloitte survey reports that millennials top concern is cost of living expenses. Of those surveyed, 37% of them have gotten a second job (part-time or full-time) in addition to their primary place of employment. This trend has increased by 4% since 2022.

With so many people struggling to make ends meet, even when holding down more than one job, is it even possible to stretch your income?

Consider doing a finances detox

Skirha says that she has even declined friends bachelorette party invitations because she cant afford to participate in them.

This kind of expense monitoring is a good place to start if youre feeling overwhelmed by your bills. Take a closer look at what youre currently spending each month and be brutally honest with yourself: what expenses can you cut?

Everyones needs are different, so figure out your fixed expenses first  like rent, groceries and utilities. From there, set a realistic budget for yourself. You can then start adding in lines to repay any debts and build up your emergency fund.

Dont be so ruthless in your budget, though, that you leave no room for enjoyment. Personal finance personality Ramit Sethi believes that you should spend more on the things you love and cut costs mercilessly on the things you dont.

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Sethi has a formula for your take-home pay: put 50-60% toward your fixed expenses and 5-10% toward both your savings and investments. That leaves at least 30% for the things you love, like the occasional fancy coffee, a night at the movies or a friends bachelorette party.

Read more: Retire richer  why people who work with a financial advisor retire with an extra $1.3 million

Put away the credit card

Even if you allow yourself some fun now and then, you also have to know when to put away your credit card, otherwise you run the risk of getting yourself into a cycle of debt like Skirha.

Im just getting farther and farther into credit card debt because I dont have enough after the first of the month to avoid using it, she says.

Americans of all ages struggle with this. The nations credit card balances totaled nearly $1.08 trillion in Q3 of 2023  a 4.7% quarterly increase, according to the Federal Reserve of New Yorks most recent numbers.

If youre not sure how to get started on your debt payments, Dave Ramseys snowball method can help.

Essentially, you pay off your smallest balance first, putting only minimum payments on your other loans. Once you pay off the smallest debt, you move on to the second-smallest debt and so on, until you pay off all your loans.

Getting out of the debt cycle will also help you sleep better at night  literally.

Finding ways for single people to save money

In her video, Skirha is so stressed about her debt that she starts to think of out-of-the-box ways to cut expenses.

Do I just find a boyfriend so I can split everything with him? asks the single millennial.

Skirhas desperate plea demonstrates how just badly shes experiencing the singles tax  the extra costs a single person incurs for necessities, compared to someone splitting the bills with a partner.

However, there are other ways to save without settling into a relationship you may or may not actually want  one of which is moving to a cheaper state (or outside a major city) to help cut down on day-to-day costs.

For instance, Skirha lives in Arizona. A single person there needs to make $60,026 a year, on average, to live comfortably, according to a 2023 GOBankingRates study. If she moved to Mississippi, however, she would only need a yearly income of $45,906. She could then take her roughly $15,000 savings and put it toward her credit card debt.

But if moving isnt in the cards for you, for whatever reason, you can still find ways to cut costs without partnering up. You can find a roommate, buddy up with a friend to buy non-perishable grocery items or sell your car and carpool with colleagues to get to work.

Life is expensive, but there are ways to curb it.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Editors note: The headline of this story has been updated in order to accurately portray Fords electric vehicle program and the story itself has been updated to add factual attribution and other revisions.



After achieving record sales in the electric vehicle segment, Ford Motor Co. has taken a step back, scaling down its its intention to invest $11.4 billion in EV development, which the automaker announced in 2021. What does Ford CEO Jim Farley know that Tesla CEO Elon Musk doesn't?

Despite the F-150 Lightning becoming Americas top-selling electric truck and the Mustang Mach-E recording impressive sales, Ford is revising its EV strategy. In October, Chief Financial Officer John Lawler announced a reduction in planned EV investment, including postponing around $12 billion in EV spending, as CNBC reported at the time. Ford is reducing production at its plant in Marshall, Michigan, cutting down on inverter and motor capacity and scaling back integration plans, according to a November Detroit Free Press report.

"Great product is not enough in the EV business anymore," Farley said during the companys third-quarter earnings call on Oct. 26, 2023, as reported by Fox. "We have to be totally competitive on cost."

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This decision comes amid a broader shift in the market, where hybrids are gaining increased focus.

Despite placing second in U.S. EV sales, the bulk of Fords vehicle sales continue to be gas-powered internal combustion engine vehicles.



While this shift might seem like a step back for the EV industry, smart investors acknowledge the broader context. In the U.S., a compound annual growth rate for the electric vehicle sector of 18.2% is forecasted from 2024 to 2028, resulting in a projected market volume of $161.6 billion by 2028, according to Statista's 2023 Market Data and Analysis Report.



Despite indications of a consumer preference for hybrids, the EV industry continues to be a lucrative option for investors, specifically in the startup investing and venture capital realm. Startups have been unsuccessful for decades in breaking into the auto manufacturing industry. But now, there have been several unicorns and multibillion-dollar companies minted in the space.



Trending: This startup is accepting investors for as little as 25 cents  whats the catch?

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Tesla, renowned for its pioneering role in the EV industry, has maintained its leadership position by adopting aggressive sales strategies and innovation. Over the last year, Tesla has reduced prices, making its vehicles more accessible and putting pressure on traditional carmakers competing in the EV space. The price reduction strategy has been crucial in maintaining Teslas significant market share despite increasing competition from automakers like Ford, General Motors and Toyota Motors.

Teslas software-centric approach to automotive design, with features like its infotainment system, over-the-air updates and Autopilot driver-assistance system, has set a benchmark in the industry, as reported by BCG.com. Yet Barrons reported that Teslas market share in the U.S. EV market fell in the fourth quarter to 51%, down from 59% in the fourth quarter of 2022, but it remains a dominant force, with innovative revenue streams from aspects like charging and full self-driving subscription software.

But the people have spoken, and Ford listened. In late 2023, it was widely reported that consumers are indicating a preference for hybrids over EVs. Reasons include cold weather unreliability, distance concerns, charging issues, high maintenance and repair costs and an unwillingness by customers to pay extra for EVs. Hybrids provide similar advantages to EVs without many of the headaches.

"The customer is going to decide what the volumes are," Fords Lawler said, as reported by CNBC. "Ford is able to balance production of gas, hybrid and electric vehicles to match the speed of EV adoption in a way that others can't."

Read Next:

Discover why high-profile names like Leonard Dicaprio are turning to diamond assets and how you can get involved with just $100 .

Hedge funds intend to snatch all pre-IPO shares of future AI unicorns before you can. But there is one venture product investing on your behalf.

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This article Is Ford CEO Jim Farley Better Than Elon Musk At Reading the Room? The Future Of Ford And Legacy Automakers (CORRECTED) originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Azerbaijani Ambassador to Romania Gudsi Osmanov presented his credentials to Romanian Foreign Minister Luminica Odobescu, Azernews reports.

Both sides stressed the importance of strategic cooperation and friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Romania, studied the agenda of high-level reciprocal visits, activities of the intergovernmental commission and political consultations.

The two sides discussed possibilities of expanding cooperation between the two countries in the field of energy, including green energy, transport and logistics projects.

Highlighting the high level of relations between the two states, Minister Luminica Odobescu reiterated Romania's commitment to develop a bilateral strategic partnership.

In the course of the meeting, the sides had a broad exchange of views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest. Romanian minister wished the ambassador success in his endeavours.
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Foreign carmakers that have been losing market share to local rivals in China have boosted exports from the world's largest auto market, accounting for more than a fifth of the country's total vehicle exports last year, industry data showed.

China is estimated to have overtaken Japan as the world's largest auto exporter in 2023, thanks largely to the strength of nimble local companies such as Chery, SAIC, Geely and BYD.

But 18 foreign brands, led by Tesla, also exported 910,000 cars from China last year, accounting for 22% of the total 4.1 million units of China car exports, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) showed.

Tesla alone exported 344,000 EVs from its Shanghai plant, its biggest factory worldwide, to Asia, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Ford Motor and General Motors were also among the biggest exporters, with their combined exports rising 21% from 2022.

Legacy foreign brands are now adjusting their China strategy to boost exports.

Ford, for example, exported 69% of its Territory SUV, which was developed specifically for the China market, last year.

South Korea's Kia Corp more than doubled its China exports last year to send the majority of its China car output outside the country. Japanese and German brands also boosted exports from China.

(Reporting by Zhang Yan and Brenda Goh; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
FTX Will Be Investigated by Independent Examiner, According to Third Circuit Court of Appeals

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia has ruled that FTX must undergo an independent investigation by an examiner, overturning a previous decision by a Delaware bankruptcy judge. The investigation, requested by the U.S. Trustee overseeing the FTX bankruptcy, aims to shed light on the crypto exchange's collapse and uncover potential fraudulent activities. The court found that the current probe led by FTX CEO John Ray III is insufficient and that an independent investigation is necessary to restore confidence in the crypto industry.

Judge Luis Felipe Restrepo emphasized the importance of an independent examiner who is not an interested party or involved with the debtor. Concerns were raised about the potential involvement of FTX employees who may have engaged in fraud and the conflict of interest presented by FTX's lawyers, Sullivan & Cromwell, who previously served as pre-petition advisors to the company.

The appointment of an examiner is mandated by the Bankruptcy Code when a debtor's debts exceed $5 million, which is certainly the case with FTX. Judge Restrepo also highlighted the broader implications of the investigation for the crypto industry.

"An investigation into FTX Group's use of its own cryptocurrency tokens, FTTs, to inflate the value of FTX and Alameda Research could bring this practice under further scrutiny, thereby alerting potential investors to undisclosed credit risks in other cryptocurrency companies," the opinion reads.

The decision to order an independent investigation comes after a year-long legal battle. In December 2022, the U.S. Trustee filed a motion to appoint an outside examiner, which was opposed by FTX CEO John Ray III. In February 2023, Judge John Dorsey denied the motion, citing the high cost of conducting two parallel investigations.

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General Mills is ending onsite child care at its Golden Valley headquarters on Sept. 30, the company told employees last week.

Demand for the benefit has dropped as employees work a hybrid schedule in and out of the office. The daycare is just a quarter full, General Mills said in its announcement, leading to increased costs.

General Mills' child care center is licensed to care for up to 60 infants, defined as up to 16 months old. The company also offered the on-site childcare as an emergency backup for employees. That benefit is also ending.

"Post-pandemic, we saw a notable drop in usage as families opted for child care options closer to home," said Mollie Wulff, a spokeswoman for General Mills. "We're now focusing on supporting our employees by making significant investments to broaden caregiving support, including paid time off programs, health and wellbeing resources for the entire family and increased workplace flexibility."

The move comes as child care, especially for infants, is increasingly hard to find and afford for many Minnesota families. Wait lists can stretch a year or longer. General Mills employees who use or planned to use the headquarters daycare now have eight months to find alternatives.

Child care is a financially challenging business across Minnesota. Nearly all child-care providers outside the Twin Cities metro area lose money, according to a recent cost report published by the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

General Mills' subsidized daycare has been part of a long-standing benefits package that has won the Cheerios maker numerous awards for being a family-friendly workplace. Last year the company placed 23rd in a Forbes ranking of the best companies for women, and Newsweek gave the company 4.5 out of 5 stars on its list of the country's best workplaces for parents and families.

The child care center, operated by Bright Horizons, is one of a few employer-sponsored options around the Twin Cities. Best Buy subsidizes backup care for employees at the child care center in its Richfield headquarters, and Boston Scientific employees can access on-site care in Arden Hills. Hormel Foods is currently building a new child care center near its headquarters in Austin, Minn., that includes 130 slots.

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Child care as a business is made more difficult by strict regulation, labor shortages and an imbalance between what families can afford and what centers need to charge to break even. Many depend on state grants, or employer subsidies, to remain open.

"Ask any employer across Minnesota about what keeps them up at night and you are likely to hear that lack of available child care is a major barrier to their continued viability," Suzanne Pearl, Minnesota director for First Children's Finance, said in a Minneapolis Fed webinar last year. "If the child care sector fails, the rest of the economy follows."

Despite the need, last year the Minneapolis Fed counted just 42 employer-sponsored child care providers in Minnesota with a capacity of about 2,700. Statewide there is licensed capacity for about 220,000 kids, a decline of 4% since 2019.
BERLIN (AP)  Germanys parliament paid tribute on Monday to Wolfgang Schaeuble, the former finance minister and the countrys longest-serving lawmaker who helped negotiate German reunification. Schaeuble died in December at age 81.

French President Emmanuel Macron, Bundestag president Baerbel Bas and Christian Democrats leader Friedrich Merz praised Schaeubles long years of service in the German government and his commitment to a unified Germany and to the European project.

Germany has lost a statesman, Europe has lost a pillar, France has lost a friend, Macron said.

He spoke about Schaeubles importance to the France-Germany relationship, noting it was fitting that Mondays memorial event took place on the anniversary of the Elysee Treaty, which was signed on Jan. 22, 1963 to mark a new era of ties between the two countries in post-war Europe.

Schaeuble played an outsize role in German politics: He first joined West Germanys Cabinet in 1984, serving as Chancellor Helmut Kohls chief of staff for five years before becoming interior minister.

In that job, Schaeuble was a key West German negotiator as the country headed toward reunification with the communist east after the Nov. 9, 1989, fall of the Berlin Wall. He helped ready the treaty that created the legal framework for unification on Oct. 3, 1990.

A mentally disturbed man shot Schaeuble at an election rally in 1990, just after reunification. He was paralyzed from the waist down and used a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He returned to work weeks later and, the following year, was credited with helping sway Germanys parliament to move the reunited nations capital from Bonn to Berlin.

Schaeuble became Chancellor Angela Merkels finance minister in October 2009, just before revelations about Greeces ballooning budget deficit set off the crisis that engulfed the continent and threatened to destabilize the worlds financial order. In that role, he was a central figure in the austerity-heavy effort to drag Europe out of its debt crisis. Schaeuble most recently served as president of Germanys Bundestag, and was the countrys longest-serving lawmaker.

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Merz said that Schaeuble had a reputation for being tough on certain issues, including the financial crisis, but added that he was always fair  he was always prepared to listen respectfully to his counterpart and was always ready to make compromises in the interests of Europe.

Bas, the current Bundestag president, described Schaeuble as the consummate public servant.

For him, the office always came first, then the person, she said.

He overcame political setbacks and personal strokes of fate, Bas said. He continued on for this democracy and this country, and he achieved historic things.
Giving Russian reserves to Ukraine would be 'elegant justice,' former World Bank chief says

The West should transfer frozen Russia reserves to Ukraine, a former World Bank president said.

Though countries may be more incentivized to dump reserve currencies, they'd find few alternatives.

"If countries believe that they cannot conquer and annex their neighbors without losing access to their global reserves, that is a good thing."

Concerns about transferring Russia's foreign reserves are overblown and deny Ukraine needed funds, a former World Bank president wrote in the Financial Times.

Countries shouldn't hesitate to take advantage of these assets, as there's no real risk to international financial stability, Robert Zoellick said.

"Russia is waging a war of attrition against Ukraine," he wrote. "Ukraine's friends need to send a signal that Moscow cannot outlast Kyiv; it is elegant justice to do so with Russia's own assets."

More than $300 billion in currency reserves were frozen following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and came alongside a slew of other sanctions. Though the funds have since remained untouched, wavering Western financial support for Kyiv has prompted discussion on whether they could be a source of aid.

Critics have argued that such a seizure would erode international willingness to keep reserves in dollars, fueling an accelerated move towards de-dollarization.

But Zoellick said that Western unity about using these assets would deny any disgruntled states realistic alternatives. Though central banks could invest in gold, it lacks liquidity, while other currencies don't have the same reach as the greenback.

"China and other economies do not hold dollars or euros because they are friends with Europe and the US. Rather, they run trade surpluses that earn foreign currencies," Zoellick said. "If Beijing dumped its dollars or euros for renminbi, it would have to figure out where to invest the proceeds at the same time that it undermined its exporters' exchange rate, thus hurting its trade."

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By guaranteeing Kyiv the funding for reconstruction and recovery, it may incentivize the country to reach a settlement with Moscow sooner, he added. On the other hand, there's a small chance the G7 could offer some of the assets back to Russia, in exchange for true peace.

Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers has similarly called for using Russian reserves to help Ukraine. And current Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said frozen Russian assets should be taxed, with proceeds sent to Ukraine.

"The G7 nations and others have frozen Russian reserves for two years without creating a disruptive, chilling effect," Zoellick wrote. "If countries believe that they cannot conquer and annex their neighbors without losing access to their global reserves, that is a good thing."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Drill Site Development Underway at Lithium King Claim Expansion in Utah; GSRO Approves All Expansion Licences at Leinster Lithium Project in Ireland

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Global Battery Metals Ltd. (TSXV: GBML) (OTCQB: REZZF) (FSE: REZ) (the "Company" or "GBML" or "Global Battery Metals"), an international critical mineral exploration company focused on growth-oriented lithium, copper and battery metal projects, is pleased to provide a status update on current project activity.

Key Highlights:

Lithium King Project, Utah, USA - Drilling plans continue to advance, with the successful acquisition of additional strategic claims now staked north of the original property. The new claims will facilitate weather-agnostic drilling between the service road and the highway, effectively bypassing flood-zones. Alloy Drilling LLC of Elko, Nevada, and Escalante Geological Services LLC of Salt Lake City, Utah, have been engaged to assist with drill hole planning. The project area is situated directly adjacent to neighbouring Intrepid Potash, which recently announced lithium concentrations at over 1,500 parts per million in its final by-product brine.

Leinster Lithium Project, Ireland - Further to its December 13, 2023 land expansion press release, the Company reports that Ireland's Geoscience Regulation Office (GSRO) has approved the option to acquire all six of the previously announced contiguous licenses, covering an additional 249 km2 adjacent to the Knockeen Lithium Pegmatite Project and more than quadrupling GBML's southern license land position. In total, the full Leinster Lithium Project footprint now comprises 22 mineral claims covering approximately 775 km2 and is situated along strike to nearby Blackstairs Lithium's Avalonia Project (297 km2 joint venture between Ganfeng Lithium Co. Ltd and International Lithium Corp.). Several target areas have been identified and a new series of prospecting activity is being planned.

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Lara Copper Project, Peru - GBML's 55 percent-owned Peruvian subsidiary, Minas Dixon, is aware that its option partners are planning a material work program this year to help advance environmental study approval efforts, in line with GBML's third option payment milestone. While Minas Dixon has optioned the property for acquisition, it retains a 0.75% net smelter return royalty on the property.

"We see a lot of near-term growth opportunity across our 2024 project pipeline, which will include Lithium King exploration," said Michael Murphy, CEO of Global Battery Metals. "Intrepid's recent lithium resource announcement has certainly dialed up interest in this area and we absolutely wish them well with these pursuits. We see Utah's unique geography and natural lithium deposits providing domestic supply potential to help meet North America's future demand and we aim to be part of this solution."

About Global Battery Metals Ltd.

GBML is an international mineral exploration and development company with a focus on lithium, copper and other metals that comprise and support the rapid evolution to battery power. GBML currently maintains economic interests in three battery metal projects: (1) an option to acquire up to a 90% interest in the Leinster Lithium Property and drill program currently underway in Ireland; (2) a 100% interest in the drill-ready Lithium King Property in Utah; and (3) a 55% stake in Peru-based Lara Copper Property, which has over 10,000 metres of drilling. As previously disclosed, Minsur S.A., a Peruvian mining company, entered into an option agreement with GBML and Lara Exploration Ltd. to acquire the Lara copper property for staged payments of USD$5.75 million. GBML will retain a 0.75% net smelter return royalty. GBML's common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: GBML); Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE: REZ); and are quoted on the OTC Markets (OTCQB: REZZF).

Global Battery Metals Ltd.

Michael Murphy BA, MBA, MSc., ICD

President & CEO

T: 604-649-2350

E: MM@gbml.ca

W: www.gbml.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating to the future operations and activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, exploration plans for the Company's various projects. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions, and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to complete exploration work, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions, and the receipt of any required governmental approvals for continued exploration. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Readers are urged to refer to the Company's reports for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects, publicly available at SEDAR+, the Canadian Securities Administrators' national system that all market participants use for filings and disclosure, at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/194946
TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - Partners In Health Canada is thrilled to announce a $1-million gift from The Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation in support of lifesaving women's and child health programming in Liberia.

Agatha Baker, 19, holds her 3-year-old daughter, Pauline Baker, in Agatha's aunt's home in Putuken, Liberia. Agatha and Pauline met Dr. Maxo Luma, executive director of PIH Liberia. Photo by Caitlin Kleiboer / PIH (CNW Group/Honey and Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation)

The multi-year commitment builds on long-standing family support of Partners In Health (PIH) and is a recognition of PIH's four-decade track record of strengthening health systems for women and children through a rights-based approach in some of the world's most vulnerable communities.

"Partners In Health is an important organization that supports high quality, long-term, local healthcare delivery in the countries in which it operates," said Alex Krawczyk. "The late Dr. Paul Farmer was a role model in my life, and I know that he is dearly missed by thousands of people around the world. I am honoured to have facilitated this gift on behalf of the Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation and in memory of Dr. Paul Farmer to assist with healthcare delivery in Liberia. Thank you to the entire Partners In Health Liberia team for the lifesaving work that you are doing."

"We truly believe health care is a human right, and that it's possible to create the conditions that allow all countries to deliver on that right," said Mark Brender, National Director of PIH Canada. "This exceptional gift from the Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation turns rights into reality, with positive effects to be felt by Liberian women, children and families for generations to come."

Partners In Health joined the international response to the Ebola outbreak in Liberia in 2014 and made a long-term commitment to stay. Together with the Ministry of Health, we are building a resilient, responsive healthcare system that addresses the root causes of disease and delivers safe, quality care.

Our programming targets the southeast of the country and is intended to establish Maryland as a model county for universal health coverage. Our commitment to the '5 Ss'  staff, stuff, space, systems, and social support  distinguishes our approach. We know that improving health system performance and health outcomes for all Liberians will only be possible by addressing supply- and demand-side challenges and coordinating health financing in line with strong national plans.

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"We are so grateful to the Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation for their very generous support to Partners In Health Liberia," said Dr. Maxo Luma, PIH Liberia's Executive Director. "With this gift, we will be able to alleviate the suffering of women and children by breaking down structural barriers from the community to the health facility and by bringing care closer so that they can fulfill their right to access health care.

"Pregnancy is not a disease, yet women or children are still dying during childbirth. The Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation is enabling us to make high-quality and safe care available to more mothers and children who would otherwise die of unjust causes. Without this invaluable contribution, this work would be much more difficult to realize."

Media Contacts:

Partners In Health

Debbie Drewett, Director of Development and Communications, PIH

ddrewett@pih.org

Honey & Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation

Meghan Lauber, Lytton Communications

meg.lauber@lyttoncommunications.com

SOURCE Honey and Barry Sherman Legacy Foundation

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/January2024/22/c1015.html
Key Insights

Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad's significant private companies ownership suggests that the key decisions are influenced by shareholders from the larger public

A total of 5 investors have a majority stake in the company with 53% ownership

28% of Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad is held by Institutions

A look at the shareholders of Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:ABMB) can tell us which group is most powerful. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are private companies with 44% ownership. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

Meanwhile, institutions make up 28% of the companys shareholders. Large companies usually have institutions as shareholders, and we usually see insiders owning shares in smaller companies.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad, beginning with the chart below.

See our latest analysis for Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad

KLSE:ABMB Ownership Breakdown January 22nd 2024

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

We can see that Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad 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 Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

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KLSE:ABMB Earnings and Revenue Growth January 22nd 2024

Hedge funds don't have many shares in Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad. Our data shows that Vertical Theme Sdn. Bhd. is the largest shareholder with 29% of shares outstanding. With 10% and 5.0% of the shares outstanding respectively, Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia and Global Success Network Sdn Bhd are the second and third largest shareholders.

Our research also brought to light the fact that roughly 53% of the company is controlled by the top 5 shareholders suggesting that these owners wield significant influence on the business.

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 Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. 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.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad. However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. It's a big company, so even a small proportional interest can create alignment between the board and shareholders. In this case insiders own RM2.3m worth of shares. It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 28% 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

It seems that Private Companies own 44%, of the Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad stock. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company.

Next Steps:

It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad better, we need to consider many other factors. Case in point: We've spotted 1 warning sign for Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad you should be aware of.

But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
For many, the main point of investing is to generate higher returns than the overall market. But even the best stock picker will only win with some selections. So we wouldn't blame long term Alaska Air Group, Inc. (NYSE:ALK) shareholders for doubting their decision to hold, with the stock down 46% over a half decade. And we doubt long term believers are the only worried holders, since the stock price has declined 30% over the last twelve months. Even worse, it's down 14% in about a month, which isn't fun at all.

With that in mind, it's worth seeing if the company's underlying fundamentals have been the driver of long term performance, or if there are some discrepancies.

Check out our latest analysis for Alaska Air Group

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. One imperfect but simple way to consider how the market perception of a company has shifted is to compare the change in the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price movement.

Alaska Air Group became profitable within the last five years. That would generally be considered a positive, so we are surprised to see the share price is down. Other metrics may better explain the share price move.

Revenue is actually up 3.9% over the time period. A more detailed examination of the revenue and earnings may or may not explain why the share price languishes; there could be an opportunity.

You can see how earnings and revenue have changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values).

Alaska Air Group is a well known stock, with plenty of analyst coverage, suggesting some visibility into future growth. So we recommend checking out this free report showing consensus forecasts

A Different Perspective

While the broader market gained around 22% in the last year, Alaska Air Group shareholders lost 30%. However, keep in mind that even the best stocks will sometimes underperform the market over a twelve month period. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 8% over the last half decade. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Alaska Air Group you should know about.

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But note: Alaska Air Group may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with past earnings growth (and further growth forecast).

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on American exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Rehabilitation assistance brightens future of disabled children

Xinhua) 08:35, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to the Republic of Azerbaijan Zurab Pataradze together with heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Azerbaijan and staff of the Georgian Embassy honoured the memory of the victims of the bloody tragedy committed by the Soviet armed forces in Baku on 20 January 1990, Azernews reports.

"Heads of diplomatic missions laid flowers at the graves of martyrs who died for the Motherland in the "Alley of Martyrs".

20 January entered the modern history of the Azerbaijani people as one of the most tragic dates," the report says.

It should be noted that today Azerbaijan marks the 34th anniversary of the tragedy of 20 January.

On 20 January 1990, which entered the history of the struggle for freedom and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan as a heroic page, the battle of the Soviet Army against the broad masses of people, angered by the aggressive actions of Armenia, which put forward territorial claims to Azerbaijan, and patronage to them by the leadership of the former USSR, who took to the streets and squares of Baku and expressed their strong protest against it.

In those tragic days, brave children of the Motherland, who held the freedom, honour and dignity of their country, their people above all, passed through their lives and rose to the peak of martyrdom.
FILE - This aerial photo shows the logo of Daihatsu Motor Co. at its headquarters in Ikeda, north of Osaka, Japan, on Dec. 20, 2023. The Japanese automaker that cheated on safety tests for decades said Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, it doesn't expect to resume shipping cars any time soon. The Japanese government ordered Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, to halt production of its entire lineup after reports of faked safety test results emerged last year. (Kyodo News via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

TOKYO (AP)  A Japanese automaker that cheated on safety tests for decades said Monday it doesn't expect to resume shipping cars any time soon.

The Japanese government ordered a subsidiary of Toyota to halt production of its entire lineup after reports of faked safety test results emerged last year.

The Daihatsu Motor Co. skipped mandatory safety tests by copying data from testing on one side of cars to the other, and used timers to ensure airbags went off in tests, a review found.

No major accidents have been reported in connection with the cheating, but the news has raised serious questions about oversight at Daihatsu, as well as its corporate parent Toyota.

Japanese regulators approved five of the company's models on Friday after more testing, but Daihatsu executives said its factories will remain shuttered as it waits on suppliers.

We face a very tough road ahead in winning back customer trust about safety and security, corporate manager Keita Ide said Monday, stressing that customers felt betrayed. He said the company is working on a plan to prevent cheating in the future.

Daihatsu is known for kei cars, or light automobiles, including the popular Daihatsu Tanto kei, or small, car. It also produces the Toyota Raize hybrid sport-utility vehicle, also sold as the Daihatsu Rocky.

An investigation including third-party experts found 174 cases of faked tests affecting dozens of models, including cars sold under the Toyota Motor Corp. nameplate. The review found that cheating went back 30 years.

The scandal began after a whistleblower came forward in April last year. Daihatsu has apologized and promised sweeping reforms of its corporate culture. Daihatsu President Soichiro Okudaira has attributed the cheating to pressure on workers to meet tight deadlines.

Daihatsu said there may be recalls, although none have been announced yet. Japanese media reports said the recalls are likely to total more than 300,000 vehicles.

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The Toyota group has been rocked by similar scandals before, ensnaring truckmaker Hino and Toyota Industries Corp., which makes engines, machinery and vehicles. That's prompted some questions about the leadership of Chairman Akio Toyoda, the former chief executive and grandson of Toyotas founder.

The standards of governance at the Toyota group are being questioned, nationally circulated Sankei newspaper said in an editorial. Getting to the bottom of this is needed, as consumer trust in the overall Toyota brand is at risk.

___

Yuri Kageyama is on X https://twitter.com/yurikageyama
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Since its grand launch in June 2023, KL Wellness City (KLWC) has been a trailblazer, reshaping integrated healthcare and wellness. This visionary city, housing the flagship KL International Hospital (KLIH) and The Nobel Healthcare Park, is set to elevate the healthcare tourism landscape through Internet of Things (IoT) integration.

KL Wellness City Drives Healthcare Tourism with IoT Integration

Dato' Sri Vincent Tiew, Executive Director of KL Wellness City, emphasized the importance of future-proofing the development with innovative technology infrastructure. "KLWC, designed to be IoT-ready, is committed to connectivity, enhancing the patient-centric experience for both local and international healthcare tourists. This aligns with the Ministry of Health's vision for a digitally transformed healthcare system."

As Malaysia's healthcare tourism revenue is expected to reach RM1.7 billion in 2024, KLWC aims to contribute to the sector's growth. Leveraging advanced technology, state-of-the-art facilities, and a patient-centric approach, KL Wellness City aspires to be a global player in health and wellness tourism.

The adoption of digital health principles at KLWC aims to streamline healthcare workflows, improve data availability, and enhance overall patient experience. The thirteen-storey KLIH is dedicated to creating a sustainable hospital environment, emphasizing KLWC's commitment to technological advancements and environmental responsibility.

To date, both KLIH and The Nobel Healthcare Park have completed their earthwork, piling, and substructure works at 100% completion, with KLIH's superstructure works scheduled to commence in Q2 2024.

KL Wellness City 'Blooming Dragon Year' Celebrations

At the celebratory event today, KL Wellness City marked the new year with significant milestones and the launch of a month-long celebration for Chinese New Year. Vibrant festivities, cultural performances, and engaging workshops promise an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

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A diverse array of cultural workshops and performances are scheduled every weekend, featuring Fengshui Talks, CNY Fitness sessions by fitness expert Jordan Yeoh, Peranakan Cooking Demo, Oriental Instrumental Performances, and more. The celebration will culminate in an enthralling Acrobatic Lion Dance and immersive experiences celebrating the festive spirit.

Dato' Sri Vincent expressed excitement, inviting everyone to join in the celebrations. "This event reflects our commitment to cultural diversity and community engagement. It's an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together and experience the richness of this auspicious festival."

The festivities, taking place at KL Wellness City Gallery, Bukit Jalil, will run from 16th Jan to 29th Feb 2024. Entrance is free, encouraging the entire community to partake in the joyous celebrations.

Join KL Wellness City as they usher in the Year of the Dragon with joy, cultural festivities, and unity. For more information or to RSVP for workshops, visit RSVP Link.: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfoJVlBlfsp7vkqvwP5xINgO4_ojsxae559qqqxR-n46RkAsA/viewform?usp=sf_link

For more information, kindly visit: http://klwellnesscity.com/

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/kl-wellness-city-drives-healthcare-tourism-with-iot-integration-302040266.html

SOURCE KL Wellness City Sdn Bhd
A woman preserving her tax documents in case she gets audited.

Once tax season is over, its tempting to contemplate pushing every document into a shredder and going on your way until next year. However, prematurely disposing of your tax documents can have financial consequences because the IRS can audit you up to three years later. Likewise, its possible for taxpayers to claim a refund they missed within the last three years. Generally, you should plan on keeping all tax documents for a minimum of three years in case you get audited. Heres what to know.

If youre looking for ways to lower your tax liability, a financial advisor can walk you through specific strategies to optimize your portfolio.

How Long You Have to Keep Tax Documents

The recommended period for keeping federal tax documents varies depending on the type of document and your circumstances. As a general guideline, its best to keep federal tax documents for at least three years. The maximum time to keep tax documents is seven years, after which they wont serve a purpose for filing or receiving a refund.

The three-year timeline comes from the IRS, which advises taxpayers to keep W-2s, 1099s, invoices, donation receipts, property-related documents and investment documents according to the federal statute of limitations.

This rule allows you to claim a refund you were supposed to receive within the last three tax years. If you miss a return, you can submit the relevant forms and paperwork within three years from the filing date to receive the return.

However, three exceptions can extend the three-year limit. First, the IRS has six years to audit a return to collect taxes on income you didnt report or underestimated. This situation can impact taxpayers with fluctuating incomes, such as business owners, self-employed contractors and investors.

Tax Document Example

Lets say you made quarterly tax payments in 2021 that didnt end up reflecting your total income that year. The IRS can pursue unpaid taxes on this income for the next six years if you underreported your income by more than 25%. As a result, keeping your documents for that long is important.

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Business owners have another set of documentation to keep: Employment tax records. If you have workers on the payroll, you should keep all related files and paperwork for four years after the tax is due or you paid it, whichever is later.

In addition, its essential to keep documentation for seven years if you claim a loss from worthless securities or a deduction from a bad debt. Doing so ensures your ability to support these claims during an audit.

Lastly, some situations necessitate keeping files forever. Specifically, if you dont file a return for a particular year, have never filed taxes before, or experience an issue regarding tax fraud, you should keep your documents indefinitely because the statute of limitations doesnt have an endpoint.

How Long Do You Need to Keep State Tax Returns and Documentation?

A woman researching how long she has to keep state tax returns and other documents.

You may need to keep documents concerning state taxes for longer than federal taxes because regulations differ by region. For example, Michigans statute of limitations for income taxes is four years, while Montana has five years to contact taxpayers for additional information or to audit a return.

In addition, specific facets of tax filing (such as fraud and unreported income) can have longer statutes. Therefore, its crucial to review your state tax laws and keep relevant documents according to your local statute of limitations. Working with a tax attorney can also help ensure you comply with state tax laws.

Why Should Your Keep Your Tax Documents?

Storing your tax documents ensures compliance with tax laws, provides a record of your financial history, and offers protection in case of audits or disputes with tax authorities. Its a good practice to organize and retain these documents for the recommended periods to address any potential future needs. Here are seven common reasons to keep your tax documents:

Record of income: Tax documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, provide a record of your income. These are crucial for accurately reporting your earnings to the IRS and referring back to them in case of an audit. Qualification for deductions and credits: Supporting documents, like receipts, financial statements and expense reports help verify deductions and credits claimed on your tax return. Keeping these records is essential in case of an audit. Proof of filing: Retaining a copy of your filed tax return serves as proof that you complied with your tax obligations for a specific year. Because not filing has severe financial ramifications, retaining proof protects you from penalties and fines. Audit protection: The IRS may audit your tax return within a fixed timeframe (typically three years), and having the necessary documents on hand can help you substantiate your income and deductions. Claiming refunds: If you later discover that you are eligible for a refund or credit, the original documents will be necessary to file an amended return. Your window for claiming refunds is three years at the federal level (state statutes for refunds vary). Documentation for loans and financial transactions: Lenders may require tax returns as part of the documentation for mortgage applications or other loans. Tax documents are helpful in these situations. Estate and inheritance purposes: Tax documents may be needed for estate planning, inheritance, or other financial planning purposes.

What Tax Records Should You Keep?

When considering what tax records to keep, its worth hanging on to every document related to your tax situation. This way, you can substantiate every detail about each tax year within the statute of limitations from the federal and state governments. Heres a rundown of nine tax records to keep:

W-2s

1099s

Payroll documents

Invoices

Deposit slips

Paid bills (such as medical expenses and property taxes)

All financial documents related to running your business

Mileage logs

Documentation for itemized deductions you plan to take

When to Get Rid of Tax Documents

While disposing of clutter and freeing up space in the filing cabinet can be tempting, its crucial to wait until the statute of limitations passes before getting rid of tax documents. So, when the statute of limitations passes beyond the reach of state and federal auditing (as summarized above), you can say goodbye to old tax documents. Its critical to shred these documents to avoid the risk of identity theft.

Remember, other institutions may want you to keep your old tax documents. For example, lenders and insurance companies may ask for tax returns and financial statements from more than three years ago. As a result, its best to consider what other purposes your older documents may serve before disposing of them.

Tips for Storing Tax Documents

Intact tax documents let you file your taxes accurately, apply for loans, and comply with audits. As a result, keeping them intact and legible is a top priority.

The ideal place to store your tax documents is a locked, fire-proof safe. This way, your documents are safe from theft and natural disasters. You can also store other personal documents there, such as your mortgage documentation, life insurance policies, estate planning documents and property deeds.

Additionally, you can make electronic backups by scanning these documents to a cloud-based storage system. Various companies offer first-class encryption and cloud security for your documents. Doing so lets you access your documents on the internet and simplify storage. Plus, you can file electronically with the IRS in many cases, eliminating the paper mess that usually accompanies tax season.

Bottom Line

A woman preparing documents for a tax audit.

Understanding how long to keep tax documents is essential for maintaining compliance with tax laws and ensuring a record of your financial history. The recommended periods, range from three to seven years, and vary based on the type of document and the statute of limitations from the IRS and your state government.

Tips for Keeping Tax Documents

A financial advisor can help you maximize your refunds and ensure that you are in compliance with tax regulations. SmartAssets free tool doesnt have to be hard. SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Tax season comes, and the eternal question arises: Should you file taxes yourself or hire a tax pro? Evaluating your financial circumstances can help you save time, money and stress.

Photo credit: iStock/staticnak1983, iStock/Drs Producoes, iStock/tommaso79

The post How Long You Have to Keep Tax Documents appeared first on SmartReads by SmartAsset.
Ideally, your overall portfolio should beat the market average. But even the best stock picker will only win with some selections. So we wouldn't blame long term Low Keng Huat (Singapore) Limited (SGX:F1E) shareholders for doubting their decision to hold, with the stock down 40% over a half decade. Furthermore, it's down 11% in about a quarter. That's not much fun for holders.

With that in mind, it's worth seeing if the company's underlying fundamentals have been the driver of long term performance, or if there are some discrepancies.

Check out our latest analysis for Low Keng Huat (Singapore)

Given that Low Keng Huat (Singapore) didn't make a profit in the last twelve months, we'll focus on revenue growth to form a quick view of its business development. Generally speaking, companies without profits are expected to grow revenue every year, and at a good clip. That's because fast revenue growth can be easily extrapolated to forecast profits, often of considerable size.

In the last half decade, Low Keng Huat (Singapore) saw its revenue increase by 7.6% per year. That's a fairly respectable growth rate. We doubt many shareholders are ok with the fact the share price has fallen 7% each year for half a decade. Clearly, the expectations from back then have not been satisfied. The lesson is that if you buy shares in a money losing company you could end up losing money.

The company's revenue and earnings (over time) are depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers).

SGX:F1E Earnings and Revenue Growth January 22nd 2024

This free interactive report on Low Keng Huat (Singapore)'s balance sheet strength is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further.

What About Dividends?

When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. Whereas the share price return only reflects the change in the share price, the TSR includes the value of dividends (assuming they were reinvested) and the benefit of any discounted capital raising or spin-off. It's fair to say that the TSR gives a more complete picture for stocks that pay a dividend. In the case of Low Keng Huat (Singapore), it has a TSR of -27% for the last 5 years. That exceeds its share price return that we previously mentioned. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!

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A Different Perspective

While the broader market lost about 2.0% in the twelve months, Low Keng Huat (Singapore) shareholders did even worse, losing 18% (even including dividends). Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 5% over the last half decade. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Low Keng Huat (Singapore) better, we need to consider many other factors. For instance, we've identified 4 warning signs for Low Keng Huat (Singapore) (2 are a bit concerning) that you should be aware of.

If you are like me, then you will 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 Singaporean exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Understanding LTC Properties Inc's Upcoming Dividend

LTC Properties Inc (NYSE:LTC) recently announced a dividend of $0.19 per share, payable on 2024-02-29, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-02-20. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's look into LTC Properties Inc's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does LTC Properties Inc Do?

Warning! GuruFocus has detected 5 Warning Signs with LTC.

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How to calculate the intrinsic value of a stock?

LTC Properties Inc is a healthcare facility real estate investment trust. The company operates one segment that works to invest in healthcare facilities through mortgage loans, property lease transactions, and other investments. LTC generates all of its revenue in the United States. LTC is an active capital provider in the seniors housing and healthcare real estate industry. The company has been actively engaged with its operating partners to create a growing pipeline of projects.

LTC Properties Inc's Dividend Analysis

A Glimpse at LTC Properties Inc's Dividend History

LTC Properties Inc has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2002. Dividends are currently distributed on a monthly basis. LTC Properties Inc has increased its dividend each year since 2002. The stock is thus listed as a dividend achiever, an honor that is given to companies that have increased their dividend each year for at least the past 22 years. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Breaking Down LTC Properties Inc's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, LTC Properties Inc currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 7.11% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 7.11%. This suggests an expectation of the same dividend payments over the next 12 months. And over the past decade, LTC Properties Inc's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at 2.30%. Based on LTC Properties Inc's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of LTC Properties Inc stock as of today is approximately 7.11%.

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LTC Properties Inc's Dividend Analysis

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2023-09-30, LTC Properties Inc's dividend payout ratio is 1.19, which may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable.

LTC Properties Inc's profitability rank, offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks LTC Properties Inc's profitability 8 out of 10 as of 2023-09-30, suggesting good profitability prospects. The company has reported positive net income for each of year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. LTC Properties Inc's growth rank of 8 out of 10 suggests that the company's growth trajectory is good relative to its competitors.

Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and LTC Properties Inc's revenue per share, combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate, indicates a strong revenue model. LTC Properties Inc's revenue has increased by approximately -2.10% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 65.93% of global competitors.

The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, LTC Properties Inc's earnings increased by approximately -3.90% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 61.36% of global competitors.

Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of -8.30%, which underperforms than approximately 76.2% of global competitors.

Concluding Insights on LTC Properties Inc's Dividend Profile

LTC Properties Inc's commitment to consistent dividend payments is evident in its status as a dividend achiever. However, its payout ratio raises questions about the long-term sustainability of its dividend policy. The company's strong profitability rank and growth metrics provide some assurance, but the underperformance in revenue and earnings growth compared to industry peers suggests areas for improvement. As value investors consider LTC Properties Inc for potential investment, it's crucial to weigh the attractive dividend yield against these growth and sustainability metrics. Will LTC Properties Inc's dividend continue to be a beacon for income-focused investors, or are there challenges ahead that could affect its ability to maintain its dividend streak? For further analysis and high-dividend yield stock options, GuruFocus Premium users can utilize the High Dividend Yield Screener.

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


DenisTangneyJr / iStock.com

If youre retiring on a fixed income, youre looking to limit costs wherever you can. One of the biggest expenses of basic living is housing, so finding affordable places in retirement is essential. If youre open to moving where the living is cheap, there are several cities that real estate agents recommend as ideal.

Learn: 10 Ways for Retirees To Cut Back on Expenses in 2024

I Retired Early: Heres My Monthly Budget

GOBankingRates spoke to Ron Wysocarski, a real estate broker with Wyse Home Team Realty in Florida and Andy Kolodgie, CEO and co-founder of the real estate company Sell My House Fast to find eight places they recommend you retire on a fixed income:

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Lancaster has a thriving arts and culture scene, first-rate healthcare facilities, and a lower cost of living than other major cities according to Ron Wysocarski.

Its a nice spot to retire because of its tight-knit community, he said.

The cost of living in Lancaster is a tiny bit below the national average, with the average rent for a single studio coming in at $900, and the median home price around $171,000.

Retirement Planning: How Much the Average Person 65 and Older Spends Monthly

York, Pennsylvania

York provides easy access to high-quality healthcare and a reasonably priced way of living, Wysocarski said. Its a great place to retire because of its vibrant senior communities, historic downtown, and rich cultural environment.

Its cost of living is about 4% below the national average, with housing at almost 30% below average. The average rent for a studio is around $740.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, the state capital of Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban and urban living, Wysocarski said.

The city provides a wealth of recreational opportunities, easy access to medical services, and a cost of living that is cheaper than the national average.

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The cost of living in Harrisburg is almost 11% lower than the national average, with housing almost 35% lower. A single studio runs around $810 per month and the median house price is $212,400.

Pensacola, Florida

Youd think that because Pensacola is a retirement destination, with its gorgeous beaches and pleasant weather, it would be as pricey as other parts of Florida, but Wysocarski said thats not the case.

The city is a popular choice for people on fixed incomes because it has lower housing costs and a reduced cost of living, he said.

In fact, the cost of living is around 11% lower than the national average. The average rent of a studio here is a little pricier than the other cities Wysocarski has mentioned but still less than $1,000 per month. And the median house price is $240,000.

Brownsville, Texas

Brownsville is an appealing alternative for retirees due to its cost of living, which is comparatively lower than average, said Andy Kolodgie.

Another attraction is the warm weather, which offers respite from the severe winters, he said.

The cost of living is almost 25% lower than the national average. You can rent a studio apartment here for just $650 and the median home cost is around $162,000.

Columbus, Ohio

Another ideal location is Columbus, Ohio, Kolodgie said. The citys blend of suburban and urban districts accommodates a range of tastes, making it possible for retirees to find a suitable place to call home.

The cost of living here is almost 9% lower than the national average, though housing is almost 30% cheaper here. The average rent for a studio is $860 and the median home cost is around $220,100.

Tucson, Arizona

Even with more retirees heading to Arizona, Tuscon is still a reasonably priced choice for individuals who want a warmer, drier climate, Kolodgie said.

Additionally, he said, The community has healthcare facilities to satisfy medical demands in addition to a retiree-friendly ambiance.

The cost of living in Tuscon is 4% below the national average, but housing is 7% below. A studio rents for around $800 and the median home cost is just over $303,000.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Kolodgie also recommends Sioux Falls, [B]ecause of its excellent quality of life, low cost of living, and lack of state income tax.

Additionally, having parks and outdoor activities nearby improves retirement living in general, he said.

Sioux Falls cost of living is about 10% lower than the national average. The cost to rent a studio is around $750 per month and the median home cost is just around $308,600.

With a variety of cities to choose from, retirees on a fixed income should be able to find something that meets their needs.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Im a Real Estate Agent: 8 Places Id Retire on a Fixed Income
Madison Metals Inc.

TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Madison Metals Inc. (Madison or the Company) (CSE: GREN) (OTCQB: MMTLF) (FSE: 4EF0) is pleased to provide an update on its uranium forward sales agreement with Sanmiguel Capital Investment (Bahamas) Ltd., a financial advisory firm assisting with the administration. Since November 2023, Madison Metals has successfully received funds for its first tranche of the Companys forward sales agreement, at an average price of US$68 per lb. This achievement underscores the uranium agreements effectiveness in securing favorable pricing, well above the contractual established US$45 price floor. As there is no price ceiling, Madisons forward sales agreement provides upside potential for advantageous pricing as the market continues to surge. The significant flexibility of the forward sales agreement allows the Company to adapt and capitalize on the uranium markets upward price trajectory.



Given the exceptional performance of the current uranium market, with an 88% spot price increase in 2023 and an additional 10% increase in the first two weeks of 2024, Madison is well-positioned to leverage these robust market conditions.

Our strategic mining assets in Namibia, Africa, backed by decades of expertise, position us as a leading upstream explorer and developer that can fast-track to uranium production. We're not just creating value for our shareholders; we're setting the pace for the future of sustainable energy. This is more than a market trend  it's a fundamental shift in the global energy market, and Madison is positioned to be a major player at the heart of it," said Duane Parnham, Executive Chairman and CEO of Madison Metals.

Madison Metals remains committed to responsible development, utilizing its extensive experience in Namibia, a leading jurisdiction in uranium supply. The Company's focus on creating shareholder value, coupled with its experienced management team, positions it favorably in the global uranium industry.

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About Madison Metals Inc.

Madison Metals Inc. (CSE: GREN) (OTCQB: MMTLF) (FSE: 4EF0) is an upstream mining and exploration company focused on sustainable uranium production in Namibia and Canada. With over 50 years of mining experience, including 22 years in Namibia, its management team has geological and financial expertise and a track record of creating shareholder value.

Additional information about Madison Metals Inc. can be found at madisonmetals.ca and on the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

For further information, please contact:

Duane Parnham

Executive Chairman & CEO

Madison Metals Inc.

+1 (416) 489-0092

ir@madisonmetals.ca

Media inquiries:

Adam Bello

Manager, Media & Analyst Relations

Primoris Group Inc.

+1 (416) 489-0092

media@primorisgroup.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the fulfillment of terms of the forward-sales agreement; the issuance of common shares of Madison; and the proposed future exploration and drilling by Madison.

Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, budget, schedule, estimates, forecasts, intends, continue, anticipates or does not anticipate, or believes, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, will, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are made based upon certain assumptions and other important facts that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future.

Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performances or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, amongst others: the global economic climate; competition; labour shortages, and unanticipated expenses of the Company. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: failure of the Company or its contractual partners to fulfil their respective obligations under agreements; unanticipated delays in drilling as described in this press release; the impact the COVID 19 pandemic may have on the Companys activities and the economy in general; the impact of the recovery post COVID 19 pandemic and its impact on precious metals; receipt of necessary approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; accidents, labour disputes and shortages; environmental risks; and other risks of the mining industry.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

You can find further information with respect to these and other risks in filings made with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities that are available on the Companys SEDAR+ profile page at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law.




Realtime capability enables retailers to compare key fulfillment metrics against their peers

MELBOURNE, Australia, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Manhattan Associates (NASDAQ: MANH), the global leader in supply chain commerce, today launched the Fulfillment Experience Insights dashboard to give retailers a realtime assessment of how their omnichannel fulfillment performance stacks up against the industry. Fulfillment Experience Insights provides continuous benchmarking of fulfillment performance, proactively informing retailers how they compare against a large pool of peers and competitors. This realtime 'actuals versus actuals' comparison avoids the inherent latency of most benchmarking tools.

Included in Manhattan Active Omni, this new capability gives retailers a single view of digital order fulfillment KPIs like store pickup conversion, shorts and abandonment, time to fulfill and more. Retailers can evaluate, measure and adjust their supply chain execution strategies using aggregated and anonymised data from the Manhattan Active cloud ecosystem. This unique analytical tool, which includes the ability to quickly pivot between various timeframes, provides detailed insight into the experience a retailer is delivering for their customers.

"Introducing cutting-edge innovation like the Fulfillment Experience Insights Dashboard is one of the reasons Manhattan continues to be ranked the only leader in omnichannel order management," said Amy Tennent, Senior Director of Product Management at Manhattan. "For the first time ever, retail operations teams can see exactly how they are performing against the rest of the industry. This is a complete game changer, because they now have a starting point to begin creating more efficiency and improving fulfillment performance for their customers."

Manhattan is uniquely capable of developing this solution because hundreds of the world's top brands use its fulfillment execution tools to process millions of orders every week. Drawing upon this extensive knowledge and experience, the company has skillfully identified the key performance indicators crucial to fostering growth and maximizing revenue.

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Last year, Manhattan launched the first-of-its-kind Unified Commerce Benchmark which measured 286 customer experience capabilities across four segments. Of these four primary segments, 'Promising & Fulfillment' returned the lowest scores by a significant margin. Manhattan's new dashboard gives retailers their real-time performance in this critical area, helping them become Unified Commerce leaders.

Further enhancing its commitment to providing comprehensive solutions for the retail industry, Manhattan also announced a strategic alliance with Shopify (NYSE, TSX: SHOP), a leading global commerce company. This collaboration combines Shopify's commerce platform with Manhattan's omnichannel order management capabilities, offering a more cohesive and enriched shopping experience for customers.

The combined solution will also include Manhattan's post-purchase customer service tools, including digital self-service solutions that provide the visibility, flexibility and convenience required by today's consumers.

Nautica, part of SPARC Group, is set to be the first to leverage this synergy.

"By offering our customers the combination of Shopify's fast and reliable commerce platform with Manhattan's powerful order promising and post purchase offerings, we are providing them unparalleled visibility and the industry's premier end-to-end online shopping experience," said Mike Dupuis, Chief Digital Officer for SPARC Group. "For SPARC, we believe the combined solution will result in improved sales, reduced shipping costs, fewer returns, and improved margins and profits overall."

The integration with Shopify will provide consumers with more precise product location and delivery information, a critical aspect in today's ecommerce landscape. Additionally, it offers global inventory visibility for brands, encompassing items in stores, warehouses, and transit, thereby streamlining the supply chain process.

Bobby Morrison, Chief Revenue Officer at Shopify, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "We're thrilled about teaming up with Manhattan as it's a major leap forward in transforming supply chain operations for enterprise commerce. This is a game-changer in today's fiercely competitive landscape, and we're excited to provide commerce solutions that will ultimately enhance unified shopping experiences for consumers."

About Manhattan Associates

Manhattan Associates is a global technology leader in supply chain and omnichannel commerce. We unite information across the enterprise, converging front-end sales with back-end supply chain execution. Our software, platform technology and unmatched experience help drive both top-line growth and bottom-line profitability for our customers.

Manhattan Associates designs, builds and delivers leading edge cloud and on-premises solutions so that across the store, through your network or from your fulfillment center, you are ready to reap the rewards of the omnichannel marketplace. For more information, please visit www.manh.com .

Receive up-to-date product, customer and partner news directly from Manhattan Associates on X (formally Twitter), LinkedIn and Facebook.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/manhattan-debuts-the-first-and-only-fulfillment-experience-insights-dashboard-for-retail-302040133.html

SOURCE Manhattan Associates
In 2020, around the time she was completing a mortgage application for a vacation house in Florida, Baltimore States Attorney Marilyn Mosby did something she hadnt done for years: She filed a tax return separate from her husband.

When the Internal Revenue Service processed Mosbys return, the federal agency notified her that it was taking the money she was due and allocating it toward the tax debt she and her husband had accrued, an IRS officer said in court Monday.

In his opening statement, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Delaney said that piece of evidence proves Mosby knew she was delinquent on federal taxes and that she knowingly lied on loan applications for two Florida properties: an eight-bedroom house near Disney World and a condo on the Gulf Coast.

Mosby, 44, is on trial for two counts of mortgage fraud, with the government having accused her of making several false statements on loan applications for the Florida homes, including that she neglected to disclose her tax debts on applications for both properties.

The defendant, a lawyer and a public servant, Baltimores top prosecutor, lied repeatedly, Delaney told jurors.

To prove the charges, prosecutors have to convince the jury that Mosby made false statements knowingly and that those lies were intended to influence mortgage lenders.

Her defense attorneys disagree that she did it knowingly.

The information she provided in the loan process was submitted in good faith. It was submitted without criminal intent. She committed no crime. Marilyn Mosby is innocent, Assistant Federal Public Defender Sedira Banan told the jury.

Banan said Mosby trusted her now ex-husband, Baltimore City Council President Nick Mosby, to take care of the couples taxes. Then, she relied on professionals to help her navigate a complicated real estate process foreign to her.

Despite her professional rise to prominence, her name was not even on the deed of the house she and Nick Mosby shared, Banan said. Peoples life stories are more complex than a job title, a salary, a degree.

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Banan encouraged jurors to look beyond the financial documents on which the government will base its prosecution.

The key to this case is understanding the interplay of trust, human relationships, context and trying to do your best to navigate an unfamiliar world, Banan said.

Along with prosecutors, the defense lawyers chose a panel of 12 jurors and four alternates last week to decide Mosbys case. Composed of men and women from different walks of life, the panel includes a retired teacher and a property manager, a sales representative and a career tradesman.

A separate jury in November found Mosby guilty of two counts of perjury, determining she lied about suffering coronavirus-related financial hardship to withdraw tens of thousands of dollars from her city retirement fund.

Mosby used the $80,000 she obtained under the federal CARES Act, Congress first pandemic relief package, toward down payments for the pair of Florida properties. Without the retirement fund withdrawals, she couldnt have afforded them, an FBI accountant testified at Mosbys perjury trial.

Related Articles

Jurors at Mosbys first trial heard evidence of how the former states attorney obtained the money and how she spent it. But they were tasked with judging only the former.

This jurys work will focus on Mosbys real estate transactions, with jurors likely to be presented dense mortgage documents and detailed analysis of her finances before theyre asked to make a decision.

Jurors also are expected to hear from a range of witnesses, including IRS and FBI agents, a forensic accountant, and mortgage brokers and bank lenders.

Also on the potential witness list are Mosby herself and Nick Mosby.

Mosby chose not to testify at her perjury trial, and legal experts say she has an even more daunting decision to make at this trial.

Take the witness stand, and Mosby must acknowledge shes guilty of lying under oath. Reference to her conviction wont be allowed at trial unless she testifies. At the same time, Mosbys testimony could be the clearest way for her to explain her side of the story.

Her defense lawyers seem poised to rely in part on Nick Mosby to support their defense that Mosby didnt know she was lying.

Mosby neglected to disclose her and Nick Mosbys $69,000 federal tax debt in both mortgage applications. Pretrial papers filed by Mosbys lawyers suggest they intend to elicit testimony from Nick Mosby that he was responsible for the couples taxes and may not have communicated clearly to his ex-wife about their problems.

IRS officer Matthew Lopes went over the former power couples tax returns year by year during several hours of testimony Monday. Lopes said the tax agency sent the Mosbys notice by certified mail 40 times informing them of their tax debt and, later, the lien it placed against their assets.

During cross-examination by Mosbys lawyers, Lopes acknowledged that the mailing status of several notice letters was unclear based on IRS records. Some, however, were marked delivered and signed.

About a week before Mosby closed on the house near Disney World, she entered into an agreement with a company to run it as a rental. The contract gave the business, Executive Villas Florida, control of the property even though Mosby signed a document in her mortgage certifying she would maintain exclusive control over the property.

The so-called second home rider allowed Mosby to secure a lower interest rate on the mortgage.

Andrew Booth, the president of Executive Villas, took the witness stand Monday afternoon. During his testimony, jurors got to see emails between Mosby and Booth as well as other employees of the property management and vacation rental company.

Though the company sent Mosby a presentation saying it believed in an old school business style and doesnt believe in contracts, it apparently entered a contract with Mosby. Booth testified the contract gave his company 15% commission on any rental it booked, while it wouldnt take any money from a rental Mosby secured herself or via another listing service like Airbnb.

With their questions, Mosbys lawyers sought to delegitimize the contract and show that Mosby had the ultimate say over her property. For example, Booth testified that the company had to get Mosbys permission to make repairs on the house.

Executive Villas terminated the contract in August 2021 because, Booth said, Mosby was impossible to deal with. She was a nightmare.

Delaney, the prosecutor, said the government had four more witnesses  three mortgage lenders and a forensic accountant with the FBI  and could conclude its case by the end of the day Tuesday.
Mark Carneys lobby group requires members to ensure their underwriting portfolios are net zero by 2050 - Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg

Mark Carneys net zero lobby group is facing an overhaul of its membership after anti-woke campaigners demanded a shake-up.

The Net-Zero Insurance Alliance (NZIA), which was launched by the former Bank of England governor, is seeking to overhaul its membership to involve regulators and insurance brokers after facing a mass exodus of major insurers last year.

Current members are engaging with a broader community of stakeholders on the evolution of the NZIA, a spokesman told the Financial Times.

The NZIA has come under fire from US politicians and anti-ESG [environmental, social and corporate governance] activists who claimed that members of the group could breach laws against anti-competitive behaviour.

Republican attorney generals from across the US last year wrote to 28 insurers urging them to leave the United Nations-convened group, accusing them of colluding to increase insurance rates and contributing to high energy costs.

The calls were led by Sean Reyes, the attorney general of Utah, who said at the time: Insurers have an obligation to protect the interests of their clients, not advance a radical environmental agenda.

Consumers Research, a US non-profit organisation which seeks to protect customers from woke companies, last year displayed mobile billboards outside of the New York offices of three European insurers calling for them to call off the collusion and quit the NZIA.

The criticism comes amid a decline in ESG investing, which boomed during the pandemic

Nearly 2.5bn flowed out of funds which focused on ESG issues between May and October last year as investors and asset managers grappled with poor performance and greenwashing concerns, according to the S&P Global Clean Energy Index.

The backlash from anti-ESG campaigners has seen NZIA relations sour as the group lost nearly half of its members last year.

Quitters include Lloyds of London, the oldest insurance market in the world, plus several major global insurers, including Germanys Allianz and Frances Axa.

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The lobby group requires members to ensure their underwriting portfolios are net zero by 2050. It is part of the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ), set up by Mr Carney in the run-up to the Cop26 climate summit in Scotland.

Joachim Wenning, chief executive of Munich Re, one of the worlds largest reinsurers, said the company cancelled its membership over fears that pursuing decarbonisation goals collectively would expose it to material antitrust risks.

Aviva boss Amanda Blanc defended NZIAs purpose

Amanda Blanc, chief executive of founding member Aviva, later defended the green alliance and blamed political crossfire for the exodus.

The UK based insurer is one of the NZIAs 11 remaining members, including Italys Generali, according to its website.

Mr Carney, who led the Bank of England between 2013 and 2020, also faced controversy after GFANZ was accused of dragging its feet on green investment for energy companies.

A report by BankTrack, a charity which tracks bank finance activities, last year claimed GFANZ provided less financing for renewable energy than lenders not part of the climate group.

However, GFANZ challenged the report and said it did not provide a comprehensive view of clean energy investment.

Mr Carney, who has positioned himself as a green finance champion, last year criticised Rishi Sunak for delaying Britains net zero deadlines and approving new oil and gas drilling.

The United Nations special envoy on climate action warned that watering down Britains net zero pledges would harm investment and leave it with a stranded assets problem.

A spokesman from United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said: UNEP and NZIA members remain fully committed to the net zero transition and are engaging with a broader community of stakeholders on the evolution of the NZIA.

To speed up and scale up net zero insurance thinking and practices globally, priorities include advancing net zero insurance frameworks, net zero transition planning by re/insurers, real economy engagement by re/insurers, and tackling barriers to re/insuring the net zero transition.

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Azerbaijani Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev has told journalists that the investigation against the detained Armenian separatists held in Baku continues in compliance with international conventions, Azernews reports.

The Prosecutor General noted that these persons were engaged in separatism, acting illegally on the territory of Azerbaijan, actually subordinating to Armenia.

"Extensive investigative measures are being carried out. There is a lot of work. Investigative actions are carried out in accordance with the requirements of all international conventions and national legislation. After the criminal case will be completed and final charges will be brought against them, the case will be submitted to the court for consideration," Aliyev added.

It should be recalled that the leader of the nationalist party "Dashnaktsutyun" in Garabagh, former so-called "chairman of the parliament" of the separatists David Ishkhanyan, former so-called "presidents" of the separatists Araik Harutyunyan, Bako Sahakyan and Arkady Ghukasyan, Davit Manukyan, who held the "position" of the so-called "First Deputy Commander of the Defence Army" and "served" in the rank of "Major General" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, Ruben Vardanyan, who held the "position" of the so-called "Minister of State" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, David Babayan, former so-called "Minister of Foreign Affairs" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, Levi Mnatsakanyan, who held the "position" of the so-called "Minister of Defence" of the separatist regime in Garabagh, were detained by the State Security Service of Azerbaijan and taken to Baku.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for medmix is CHF23.00 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

medmix's CHF17.08 share price signals that it might be 26% undervalued

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of medmix AG (VTX:MEDX) by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you 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 medmix

Crunching The Numbers

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we 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 (CHF, Millions) CHF61.0m CHF58.0m CHF56.2m CHF55.0m CHF54.1m CHF53.6m CHF53.2m CHF53.0m CHF52.8m CHF52.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ -3.16% Est @ -2.19% Est @ -1.51% Est @ -1.03% Est @ -0.70% Est @ -0.46% Est @ -0.30% Est @ -0.19% Present Value (CHF, Millions) Discounted @ 5.8% CHF57.6 CHF51.9 CHF47.5 CHF43.9 CHF40.9 CHF38.3 CHF35.9 CHF33.8 CHF31.9 CHF30.1

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = CHF412m

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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 (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 5.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = CHF53m (1 + 0.08%)  (5.8% 0.08%) = CHF926m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= CHF926m ( 1 + 5.8%)10= CHF529m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is CHF940m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of CHF17.1, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 26% 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.

SWX:MEDX Discounted Cash Flow January 22nd 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. 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 medmix as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 5.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.139. 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 medmix

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 Medical Equipment market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Swiss market.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Next Steps:

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. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For medmix, we've put together three important elements you should consider:

Risks: Be aware that medmix is showing 3 warning signs in our investment analysis , and 1 of those doesn't sit too well with us... Future Earnings: How does MEDX'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.
While battery-powered cars are seen as good for the environment, they still face issues over range anxiety and the emissions-heavy process inherent in mining lithium. So, the Electric Vehicle Team at MIT turned to hydrogen-powered vehicles as a cleaner alternative, one in which vehicles could be refilled like gas-powered cars.

The Electric Vehicle Team is building a hydrogen-powered electric motorcycle. Using a fuel cell system, the team says the open-source platform will serve as a testbed for new hydrogen-based transportation. The team hopes the project and those building off its foundation will accelerate demand for hydrogen vehicles and push infrastructure investment.

The team is made up of about a dozen students who have been working on building the prototype since January 2023. They are modifying a 25-year-old motorcycle with several custom parts to support the electric motor, hydrogen tank, fuel cell and drive train. While the team had to use battery power during development, South Korean company Doosan donated a fuel cell. The motorcycle took shape last year as other industry sponsors donated components for the system.

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The team decided to make the project open-source so they could swap out and test various components and let other groups and individuals build their own versions. As part of the project, MIT is developing a guide describing what they did and how they did it, including the safe handling methods required for the bike's hydrogen fuel, like the special tanks and connectors.

The few prototypes previously developed were inefficient and expensive, and much of the work was simulated. Building off MIT's work, researchers and educators should be able to test new ideas, even in space- and funding-constrained environments. Right now, hydrogen is affordable for research, but it's not reasonable enough for commercial production, primarily because the fuel cell remains a big, expensive component.

Initial tests were held on a dynamometer, and last October, the team successfully tested the motorcycle on a test-track for the first time.

When they started the project, some asked, why is your team building a hydrogen-powered motorcycle? They replied, why not? They wanted to see if they could do it. Not only did they do it, but they reignited conversations around small hydrogen systems that could increase demand and push the development for more infrastructure.
Jeremy Hunt

Jeremy Hunts 99pc mortgage plan risks undermining financial stability and could prompt the Bank of England to make lenders increase their capital buffers to limit risks.

Senior banking sources said mortgages allowing people to put down just a 1pc deposit were likely to prompt concerns from regulators who are in the process of revamping capital buffer rules on residential mortgages.

Plans to introduce a scheme where families could take out a loan worth 99pc of a propertys value are being considered by the Chancellor ahead of the Budget on March 6.

It suggests the scheme could allow people with just 1,000 in savings to buy a home.

Whitehall sources suggested that making home-buying more affordable would form a key plank of the Budget, although they described the 99pc mortgage as one tiny idea from officials, with many more being worked on.

Rishi Sunak announced a mortgage guarantee scheme when he was Chancellor to help people with just a 5pc deposit in the March 2021 Budget.

Around 40,000 loans worth 7.4bn have been extended to families under the so-called mortgage guarantee scheme, which is partially underwritten by the government.

Treasury data show the average value of a property purchased or remortgaged through the scheme was 199,245 to the end of 2023, compared with an average UK house price of 287,546. The data also show almost a quarter of all mortgage completions through the scheme to date are on properties worth up to 125,000, with a further 52pc on properties valued between 125,001 and 250,000.

Most homes bought under the scheme have been outside London.

Sources said the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) could still raise concerns about banks exposure to 99pc LTV mortgages, even if they were partially underwritten by the government. They could look for additional capital buffers to support lending at this loan-to-value (LTV), said one industry source.

Capital rules introduced next year require higher capital buffers for loans in excess of 90pc LTV. Even higher so-called risk weights would also apply to mortgages where no deposit is required.

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Senior banking sources also highlighted small deposits could lead to more families living in a property worth less than their mortgage.

If banks do grant 99pc mortgages, and I expect they would only do so if there was a government guarantee, there is a risk that borrowers in the event of a property downturn, get into negative equity, meaning they cant move as their life circumstances change, because they owe more than their house is worth, said one source. And a guarantee would mean one set of taxpayers subsidising another set.

The Bank of England declined to comment.

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(Bloomberg) -- Nvidia Corp. co-founder Jensen Huang celebrated the new year with staff during his first trip to China in four years, a low-key tour that coincided with growing concerns about Beijings ability to get around US chip restrictions.

Most Read from Bloomberg

He visited Nvidias offices in Shenzhen, Shanghai and Beijing earlier this month, according to a person familiar with the matter. Images and video of the 60-year-old donning colorful traditional garb and dancing with staff emerged online over the weekend. It wasnt clear if hed held formal meetings with other executives or officials, said the person, who asked not to be named discussing a private visit.

Huang embarked on his tour  first reported by state newspapers off Chinese social media posts  as Nvidias artificial intelligence accelerators become pivotal in a tech race between Washington and Beijing. Huang has warned that an escalation in sanctions designed to cut off the flow of AI training chips could drive Chinese firms to develop their own alternatives. That could harm American tech leaders in the long run, he has said. The Nvidia co-founder name-checked Huawei Technologies Co.  which in 2023 alarmed Washington by including an advanced made-in-China processor in a smartphone  as a potential rival.

Read More: US Looking Into Nvidias AI Chips for China, Raimondo Says

An Nvidia representative confirmed Huang had celebrated the upcoming Lunar New Year with staff, without elaborating.

Nvidia, which more than tripled its market value in 2023 thanks largely to its pivotal role in AI development, is up another 20% this year as investors bet on its sector leadership. Its designed versions of its semiconductors for China that it says are compliant with successive rounds of US sanctions, as Washington watches closely.

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Among the social media posts, one person describing himself as an Nvidia staffer shared an image of Huang handing over a raffled Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. The CEO has since moved on to Taiwan, according to local newspaper EDN, for his fourth visit to the island in less than a year.

Read more: Nvidias Red-Hot 2024 Start a Bright Spot as S&P 500 Eyes Record

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
New York City will purchase millions of dollars of medical debt and then erase it in effort to help as many as 500,000 residents, Mayor Eric Adams announced on Monday.

The program involves partnering with a nonprofit organization, RIP Medical Debt, that buys unpaid medical debt from hospitals at a steep discount and then clears it.

Affected New Yorkers will be notified that their medical debt has been relieved, as there is no application process for the one-time debt relief program, which will launch early this year and run for three years.

"No one chooses to go into medical debt  if you're sick or injured, you need to seek care. But no New Yorker should have to choose between paying rent or for other essentials and paying off their medical debt," Adams said in a statement.

The program is aimed at New Yorkers whose unpaid medical bills are at least 5% of their annual household income or those in households with an income under four times the federal poverty line, which is $31,200 for a family of four.

Medical debt is the single-largest cause of bankruptcy in the United States, and disproportionately affects low-income Americans and those without health insurance or who are underinsured.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul in December signed legislation that bars health care professionals and ambulances from reporting medical debt to credit agencies.

A New York charity started in 2014, RIP Medical has abolished more than $10.4 billion in medical debt for more than 7 million people since its inception, according to its website.
Two supply chain visibility providers fight their defamation case in Illinois. (Photo: Warren LeMay/Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)

The defamation battle between Chicagos two big supply chain visibility players  project44 and FourKites  continued Wednesday as the case moved from the 1st Judicial District Appellate Court of Illinois to the Illinois Supreme Court for a review of the states laws.

The dispute originates from emails sent in May 2019 and involves accusations of ties to intimidation, financial impropriety and organized crime.

On May 19, 2019, an email from Ken Adams at kenadams8558@gmail.com raised concerns about accounting improprieties at project44. The email sent to Jim Baum and Kevin Diestel  both project44 board members  and purportedly from a former employee, alleged connections to a Chicago Mafia and highlighted rampant accounting improprieties. It also linked the issues to the departure of project44s chief financial officer; referenced a canceled Estes contract; and warned of brewing discontent, predicting a potential scandal akin to the fraudulent blood-testing company Theranos.

On May 27, 2019, a second email from Jason Short at jshort5584@gmail.com criticized project44s technology. Addressed to new Chief Revenue Officer Tim Bertrand, it warned against selling subpar products.





Project44 denied all claims made in the emails, and in April 2020, the company filed a suit against FourKites for defamation and civil conspiracy.

During pre-suit discovery with Google, project44 discovered that the same individual accessed both the Ken Adams and Jason Short accounts using two IP addresses. The emails, sent a week apart and referencing Theranos, hinted at their connection. One of the IP addresses accessing Jason Shorts account belonged to FourKites India, identifying Sriram Nagaswamy and Rashi Jain as directors of FourKites India.

Additionally, the Ken Adams accounts subscriber information revealed the mobile number to be 847-644-3564, which is also listed as an official FourKites phone number in U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission documents. In a 2019 Crains Chicago post for a Roundtable on Logistics, this phone number is listed as FourKites founder and CEO Mathew Elenjickals direct number.

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Illinois defamation statute

In Illinois, to succeed in a defamation claim, the plaintiff typically needs to establish three key elements: a false statement about the plaintiff; communication of this statement to a third party (referred to as publication); and a result of harm to the plaintiffs reputation.

Illinois law also distinguishes between two forms of defamation: defamation per se and defamation per quod.

The Illinois Supreme Court considers five types of statements to be defamatory per se: (1) accusing a person of committing a crime, (2) accusing a person of being infected with a loathsome communicable disease, (3) accusing a person of lacking ability or integrity in the performance of job duties, (4) statements that otherwise prejudice a person in his profession or business, and (5) accusing a person of adultery or fornication.  A plaintiff does not need to plead or prove actual damage to his reputation to recover for a statement that is defamatory per se, said third-generation supply chain professional Matthew Leffler, managing partner at Armchair Attorney.

If a statement does not meet the criteria for defamation per se, it falls under defamation per quod, requiring plaintiffs to demonstrate actual damages.

In 2020, FourKites sought dismissal of project44s lawsuit, presenting two main arguments.

FourKites claimed that the emails didnt meet the defamation standard for publication as they werent published to a third party, asserting that project44s board members were part of the organization.

Secondly, FourKites asserted that the claims in the emails lacked the statements needed to prove defamation per see.

FreightWaves contacted FourKites for a statement regarding the ongoing case, to which the company responded, We do not provide comments on pending litigation.

The circuit court dismissed [our case], concluding that the communications, while otherwise actionable, were not published as a matter of law because of whom the communications were sent to holding that the recipients were legally no different than the corporation itself, Jennifer Coyne, general counsel for project44, told FreightWaves.



Project44 did appeal that decision to the Appellate Court of Illinois and, on Nov. 22, 2022, the court agreed with project44 and sent back the dismissal for further review by the Illinois Supreme Court to review the states defamation law.

The appellate court reasoned that a corporation is not only concerned with its reputation to the outside world. Just as employees care about their reputation within the corporation, the corporation cares about its reputation among its own employees  be they high-ranking executives, lower-level workers, or non-employee directors, Coyne said.

Supreme Court consideration

Deliberation on Wednesday revolved around the inquiry into whether the act of dispatching these emails could be deemed a form of publication, and secondly, whether there existed tangible harm to the plaintiffs reputation.

In regards to concern of publication, FourKites argued the recipients of the emails were essentially the same as the company and thus there was no third-party publication.

The executive leadership team, specifically those with titles such as chief revenue officer and chief operations officer, holds the responsibility of making decisions that shape the company and influence its reputation. These individuals determine how the company is perceived, what values it prioritizes, and assess the impact on its reputation. Considering this, the individuals making such decisions should be regarded as representing the company in matters of reputational harm. Without this distinction, any unfavorable comment made to a corporation could potentially be used as grounds for a defamation claim, said Scott Gilbert, representation for FourKites.

Project44s argument to FourKites response mirrors the Appellate Court decision in favor of them.

The Appellate Court more forcefully analogizes these publications to attempts of corporate sabotage, and to inject chaos into project44 his workplace and thats exactly why they are now important to the consideration of the publication issue.  FourKites didnt send them to the company. It sent them to three individuals and sought to drive a wedge between those individuals and the employer that they worked for, said Douglas Albritton, who represents project44.

The judges questioned both sides about where to draw the line for who constitutes the company versus a third party for publication. Both sides argued about precedent, corporate law principles and policy considerations.

In regards to harm to reputation, FourKites main argument focuses on the time spent between the email being received and complaints being filed.

Eleven months passed between when the emails were sent and when the complaint was filed. And in that time, [project44] cannot identify any actual reputational harm. And we highlighted that fact in our brief to this court, and [project44] made no response.  That silence is critical because [project44] has alleged defamation per se, being the damages should be presumed and need not be proven, Gilbert said.

Project44 argues proof is not necessary under state law for defamation per see.

The core of this fight is whether two outside board members and [Bertrand] are considered another person outside of the company itself. This is a novel case, which means there is not a strong precedent that determines the outcome. FourKites is arguing that the C-suite should be considered the same as the company. This would include board members and other executives. If the Illinois Supreme Court agrees with FourKites, then the lawsuit of defamation per se fails, Leffler said.

Although, Leffler said, For what its worth, I agree with [project44].

Both companies now wait for the state Supreme Court to issue a ruling on the Appellate Courts decision acknowledging project44s case to sue for defamation per see.

I think this case highlights a consistent pattern in which FourKites demonstrates a lack of integrity in handling information, project44 founder and CEO Jett McCandless told FreightWaves. I have full confidence in the judicial system that justice will be served.

Articles by Grace Sharkey

Supreme Court rejects review in broker liability case, leaving the issue unresolved

FreightTech experts: 2024 is the year for laggards to catch up

FourKites confirms 15% cut in global workforce, dismisses key exec

The post Project44 v. FourKites: The FreightTech case that questions Illinois defamation law appeared first on FreightWaves.
I saw a quote on the internet the other day that said something to the effect of I dont want anything to do with temperatures less than my age."

As I have aged my low temperature tolerance has dramatically decreased and the idea of becoming a snowbird is getting better by the day. But as livestock producers, we may be welcoming the cold temperatures as they may be giving us a reprieve from dealing with mud. This time of year, we know that at some point we will deal with cold temps, or mud, or both. Either scenario can create some management problems for us to tackle.

Our ruminant livestock can handle considerably lower temperatures than us. Most of that is due to the fact they have a built-in furnace, their rumen, to help maintain core body temperature. When the correct combination of challenges present themselves, livestock performance can be negatively impacted.

John Yost

Most of the information available is for cattle, but we can use the same thought processes when assisting our small ruminants deal with environmental challenges. Until it gets really cold, like it has this last week, it is easy to assume our livestock are fine. However, the low critical temperature (LCT) for cattle can be as high as 59 degrees if they have their summer haircoat and are wet.

In an article published by Penn State Extension last year (https://extension.psu.edu/cold-stress-and-beef-cattle), the LCT is described as the temperature at which maintenance requirements increase to the point where animal performance is negatively affected. In most cases they point out the normal LCT for beef cattle is between 18 and 20 degrees for those with a heavy winter coat, or 32 degrees for a normal winter coat. They point out for every degree below the LCT, an average cows Total Digestible Nutrient (TDN) requirement increase by 1%.

More: Professional Marketer School aims to help farmers budget time, money, annual game plan

No muddying up the feeding facts

Mud also will create challenges from a temperature tolerance and performance perspective. Mud, similar to rain, reduces the insulative properties of their haircoat. Also, the depth of the mud in the field causes animals to exert more energy just moving around.

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The University of Kentucky AEN-115 Extension publication cites that mud to a depth of 4-8 inches can increase a cows feed requirement by 12 to 13% while decreasing their feed intake by 8-15%. 12 to 24 inches of mud can subsequently increase their feed requirement by 20-25%, and decrease their feed intake by 30%.

So, what can we do? First, is make sure you are supplying enough high quality feed. Your average beef cow, in her last third of gestation will eat about 2.5% of her body weight in dry matter each day and need about 14 pounds of TDN. Cold temperatures alone can push a cow to increase her feed intake to 3.5% of her body weight and as temperatures fall that feed will need to contain more energy.

When dealing with mud, the decreased feed intake needs to be offset with a more energy dense ration.

Provide plenty of water and windbreaks

Along with feed, we cant forget about water. Although it isnt officially listed as one, water is the most important nutrient we can provide. Livestock need continuous access to fresh, clean, water to maintain their metabolic functions. Waterers should be inspected a couple times each day, depending on the temperature, to make sure they arent frozen over. You should also clean your waterers periodically to removed foreign material.

Finally, you need to provide your animals some form of reprieve from the elements however possible. This can be done with windbreaks created from topography, trees and woody vegetation, or man-made structures. You can also spread some poor-quality hay or straw for your animals to utilize as bedding.

Pastures can easily be mudded up, so rotating placement of feeders and utilizing high ground can help. I have always been a fan of heavy-use pad for feeding livestock on pasture. If you dont have any, I would explore their construction and use. A heavy-use pad helps create feeding and bedding sites that are easier to maintain, especially when youre limited in areas you can rotate.

Next week is our first Private Pesticide Recertification opportunity. It will be conducted in conjunction with the AgPro Expo at Harvest Ridge Fairgrounds in Millersburg on Jan. 25. Our first Wayne County session will be at Drake Park, in West Salem on Feb. 9. This also is the final week for registrations for the 2024 Professional Marketer Program. The cost of the program is $150 and provides you with a binder of all the course materials and lunch and break refreshments each day.

You can register at http://go.osu.edu/2024professionalmarketer or you can call the Wayne County Extension office at 330-264-8722 to register for either of our programs.

Other OSU Extension programs that may be of interest are:

Farm Accounting with Quicken at the Knox County Extension office on Feb. 26 and 27. You can find more information and register at https://go.osu.edu/quicken

The OSU Digital Ag team will be hosting a free, weekly, one-hour, on-line webinar on various precision livestock farming topics beginning Jan. 31. Registration can be found at https://go.osu.edu/plf24.

OSU Extension and the OSU College of Vet Medicine will host the Ohio Beef Cattle Herd Health Seminar at Caldwell Research Station on Jan. 26. The cost is $10 and you can contact Garth Ruff at 740-305-3201 to register.

The 2024 Ohio Beef Cattle Feeding School will be conducted at two locations this year. It will be in Crawford County on Jan. 23 and Wood County on Jan. 30. The program is free and you can call 419-562-8731 (Crawford) or 419-819-3084 (Wood) for more information and to register.

John Yost is an Extension Educator IV, Agriculture and Natural Resources, at OSU Extension-Wayne County.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Dealing with cold temps, or mud, on the livestock farm
FILE PHOTO: Small toy figure and mineral imitation are seen in front of the Lynas Rare Earths logo in this illustration

By Rishav Chatterjee and Melanie Burton

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Australia's Lynas Rare Earths said on Monday its second-quarter revenue fell sharply, missing analysts' estimates, as prices plunged during a slowdown in construction activity in China, sending its shares to 30-month lows.

Rare earth prices during the quarter extended declines as demand in China, especially in the country's appliance sector, fell with the construction downturn, said Lynas, the world's largest producer of rare-earths outside China.

The miner said its sales fell 51.7% to A$112.5 million ($74.06 million) in the three months to Dec. 31, from A$232.7 million in the year-ago period. It missed Macquarie's estimate of A$117.8 million.

"(The) major issue for the company at present is the commodity price trajectory and demand in China," said analyst Dan Morgan of Barrenjoey.

"There wasn't anything positive the company said on demand to change the prevailing market mood."

Lynas said it has largely completed construction at its Kalgoorlie rare earths processing plant, which will also feed mixed rare earth carbonate to the new Lynas Seadrift facility in Texas serving the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

Lynas has been upgrading its Malaysian processing facilities to increase separation capacity to 10,500 tons per year for neodymium and praseodymium, used in magnets in sectors from electrified transport to defence.

The firm halted all Malaysian operations, barring one, in mid-November.

Its expansion project at the Mt Weld mine in Western Australia remains on track, Lynas said, after a completed drilling program showed extensive rare-earth mineralisation around the mine.

Lynas estimated March quarter production at around 1500 tons, above its previous estimate of around 900 tons.

Shares eased 3.4% to A$5.75 to hit their lowest since July 20, 2021, as of 0009 GMT.

Lynas raked in an average second-quarter selling price of A$28.70 per kilogram (kg) for its product range, sharply below the A$58.40 per kg last year.

($1 = 1.5191 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Shivangi Lahiri, Rishav Chatterjee and Sneha Kumar in Bengaluru; Editing by Richard Chang, Sherry Jacob-Phillips and Shri Navaratnam)
Lithuanian Embassy in Azerbaijan shares a message dedicated to the 34th anniversary of the 20 January tragedy, Azernews reports.

"We remember 20 January, one of the bloodiest tragedies of the 20th century committed by the Soviet regime. We remember with deepest respect those who gave their lives for the independence and dissolution of the Soviet Union," the embassy wrote on page X.

It should be noted that today Azerbaijan marks the 34th anniversary of the tragedy of 20 January.

On 20 January 1990, which entered the history of the struggle for freedom and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan as a heroic page, the battle of the Soviet Army against the broad masses of people, angered by the aggressive actions of Armenia, which put forward territorial claims to Azerbaijan, and patronage to them by the leadership of the former USSR, who took to the streets and squares of Baku and expressed their strong protest against it.

In those tragic days, brave children of the Motherland, who held the freedom, honour and dignity of their country, their people above all, passed through their lives and rose to the peak of martyrdom.
Dame Sharon White, the departing boss of John Lewis, has said she has struggled to find men who will work for women - Darren Staples/Bloomberg

Female chief executives were either fired or quit at a record rate last year, with observers blaming tall poppy syndrome as critics attack successful women.

A tenth of all global chief executive departures last year were women, a report by recruiter Russell Reynolds has found, which was a record high proportion.

Female chief executives are much more likely to quit their jobs as a result of personal reasons, at a rate of 16pc versus just 5pc for men.

Former longstanding YouTube boss Susan Wojcicki was among those who left for personal reasons last year, stating that she was standing down to start a new chapter focused on my family, health, and personal projects.

However, female leaders are also being fired at a much higher rate than men, at 34pc versus 25pc.

Russell Reynolds Laura Sanderson, who advises companies on board hires, said women are being penalised more for any perceived failure or limelight seeking because of a scarcity of other female bosses.

Ms Sanderson said women leaders were also more likely to fall victim to tall poppy syndrome, a term used to describe criticism levelled at people who are deemed to be too successful or self-satisfied.

She said: Todays chief executives are expected to be more of a public figure than ever before, and the relative scarcity of female chief executives automatically gives them a higher degree of prominence. So they get disproportionate media attention.

If youre a woman, you are under more pressure to visibly outperform. But woe betide you if youre seen to be enjoying the profile of the CEO role too much or if you become too prominent, as tall poppy syndrome is never far away.

Almost a quarter of FTSE 100 chief executives who left in 2023 were women.

High-profile exits last year included the departure of NatWest chief Dame Alison Rose, the first woman ever to lead a major UK bank. She stood down in July over her role in the Nigel Farage debanking scandal and has since forfeited 7.6m in pay and benefits over the crisis.

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In December the chief executive of Ladbrokes owner Entain Jette Nygaard-Andersen, one of the few female FTSE 100 bosses, also left amid pressure from activist investors.

Russell Reynolds said at the current rate it would take the FTSE 100 117 years to reach gender parity among chief executives.

Despite multiple efforts to improve diversity across business there remains widespread concern about the lack of women in senior roles, with many facing resistance as they reach the top.

Outgoing John Lewis chairman Dame Sharon White last year claimed that she struggled to find men who will work for women, while evidence from 40 women working in UK finance revealed last week that sexual harassment remained commonplace.

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.
Despite a cooling trend in the rental market in 2023, a major downturn was avoided, thanks to factors like solid job growth, high homeownership costs, and demographic shifts. As 2024 approaches, this ongoing stability in the market, coupled with the potential for rent growth, highlights the interesting position of the top five apartment REITs in the current economic landscape.

AvalonBay Communities

AvalonBay Communities (NYSE:AVB), a prominent real estate investment trust (REIT), specializes in developing, acquiring, and managing luxury apartments. With a dividend yield of 3.7%, AvalonBays portfolio is centered in high-demand urban and suburban markets, focusing on high-income areas in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Pacific Northwest. The companys strategy to cater to upscale tenants in regions with high barriers to entry supports its strong and stable dividend yield.

Equity Residential

Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR), with a dividend yield of 4.4%, is a leading REIT in the residential space, primarily targeting young professionals and millennials in key urban and high-density suburban markets. Operating in cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco, Equity Residentials focus on high-quality apartment properties aligns with the trend of urban living, ensuring a consistent demand for its properties and supporting its robust dividend yield.

Don't Miss:

Investing in real estate just got a whole lot simpler. This Dara Khosrowshahi-backed startup will allow you to become a landlord in just 10 minutes, and you only need $100.

Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, but few investors have the capital or resources needed to invest in this asset class. A platform backed by industry giant Marcus & Millichap is changing that, allowing individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000.

Essex Property Trust

Essex Property Trust (NYSE:ESS) offers a 3.8% dividend yield and is recognized for its focus on multifamily residential properties, particularly in the West Coasts lucrative markets. Concentrating on middle to high-income tenants in areas such as Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, Essex benefits from the strong rental market in these regions, driven by the tech industrys growth and the limited housing supply.

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Mid-America Apartment Communities

Mid-America Apartment Communities (NYSE:MAA), with a dividend yield of 4.4%, is a REIT known for its multi family homes spread across the Southeast, Southwest, and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S. MAAs strategy of diversifying across growing urban and suburban areas positions it well to capitalize on regional population and employment growth, underpinning its stable and attractive dividend yield.

UDR, Inc.

UDR, Inc. (NYSE:UDR) stands out with a dividend yield of 4.5%, focusing on urban and suburban apartment communities. Its significant presence in major markets like New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles allows UDR to leverage the high demand and premium pricing in these high-density areas. This strategic market presence helps ensure a steady income stream, supporting UDRs strong dividend yield.

Another way to invest in residential real estate

Arrived Homes also offers a way for investors to gain exposure to residential real estate. It's an alternative investment platform, backed by Jeff Bezos and Dara Khosrowshahi, that allows individuals to easily invest in real estate by purchasing shares of rental properties. Investors on the platform earn passive income through the rental revenue while waiting for the properties they invest in to appreciate in value over time.

Read Next:

Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, but few investors have the capital or resources needed to invest in this asset class. A platform backed by industry giant Marcus & Millichap is changing that, allowing individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000.

Collecting passive income from real estate just got a whole lot simpler. A new real estate fund backed by Dara Khosrowshahi gives you instant access to a diversified portfolio of rental properties, and you only need $100 to get started.

Image Credit: Shutterstock

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This article The Rental Market Rebound: The 5 Largest Apartment REITs to Consider in 2024 originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
The Wachusett Brew Yard in the Worcester Public Market.

WESTMINSTER  Central Massachusetts legacy brewery Wachusett Brewing Company has reportedly been purchased by New Hampshire-based Finestkind Brewing.

Finestkind Brewing, the owners of Smuttynose Brewing Company in Hampton, is expanding its reach into Central Massachusetts and has no immediate plans to change Wachusetts beer lineup, according to The Boston Globe.

Calls for comment from the Telegram & Gazette to Wachusett Brewing and Finestkind Brewing were not immediately returned.

Founded in 1994 at co-founder Ned LaFortune's family farm in Westminster, Wachusett Brewing has become a staple of the Central Massachusetts brewing scene.

Along with the Westminster brewery, Wachusett has a brew yard at the Worcester Public Market in the Canal District.

The company opened a larger brewhouse at its Westminster location in 2015 and announced it would be an anchor tenant for the Public Market in 2019.

Wachusett's beer line includes the well-known blueberry ale and Wally Juice IPA. The company serves multiple beers year round as well as several seasonal beers; the lineup largely consists of varieties of ale.

Steve Kierstead, Smuttynoses CEO, said in an interview with the Globe that Wachusett's commitment to quality aligned with Smuttynose's values and that its leading role in the fruit beer category would help diversify Finestkind's portfolio.

The Wachusett Brewing Company brewery and Brew Yard in Westminster.

Wachusetts 15,000-barrel production would also add to Finestkind's capabilities. Kierstead also praised Wachusett's taproom business as among the strongest in the region.

While Kierstead told the Globe no immediate changes would come to Wachusett's lineup, the company will review the brand and did not rule out future changes.

Finestkind is making the purchase after previously announcing the purchase of Brooklyn-based craft brewery Five Boroughs Brewing Co. in November.

Smuttynose is known for its Finestkind IPA and Old Brown Dog, a brown ale.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Wachusett Brewery purchased by Smuttynose owners, report says
MADRID (Reuters) - Irish low-cost airline Ryanair wants to open five new bases in Spain and grow by 40% in the country by 2030, Eddie Wilson, the chief executive of the group's largest airline, Ryanair DAC, said in Madrid on Monday.

He told reporters at a tourism event that the group aimed to grow passenger traffic to Spain to 77 million people from 55 million forecast for 2024, but Spain needed to have competitive airport charges for that to happen.

On Thursday, Transport Minister Oscar Puente said a 4.09% increase in tariffs by airport operator Aena as of March was "inexorable" and that even then its rates would stay below pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Wilson said Ryanair had decided to invest in Spain because there was certainty on no charge increases until 2026-2027.

"This 4% charge we think needs to be reversed, but also, we need to put in incentives in the regions of Spain, and that will drive tourist numbers 12 months in the year, not just to the beaches or the coast," he added.

The group's CEO Michael O'Leary met on Jan. 12 with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, promising an investment of 5 billion euros ($5.44 billion) in the Iberian country, one of the world's most visited, over the next seven years.

(Reporting by Corina Pons and Emma Pinedo; Writing by David Latona; Editing by Inti Landauro and Andrei Khalip)
Could yet another war break out, this time in the Korean Peninsula? (Photo: Shutterstock/Wollertz)

COVID steered shipping markets in 2020-2022. Geopolitics has steered markets ever since  and future war effects on ocean trade could be even more extreme than they are today.

Russias invasion of Ukraine rerouted crude oil, refined products, LNG, coal and grain trades. The Israel-Hamas war spawned attacks by Houthi rebels on vessels in the Red Sea, which have rerouted container ships, LNG carriers, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) ships and, to an growing extent, refined product tankers.

The Middle East war could grow into a regional conflict that affects tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Venezuela could invade Guyana, curbing a promising new source of crude exports. China could invade Taiwan, leading to an economically cataclysmic war between China and the U.S.

And then theres North Korea, which is increasingly allied with Russia.

The consensus is that a North Korean attack on South Korea and/or Japan is very unlikely  but its a known threat, definitely not a black swan. North Korea has fired missiles over Japan and North Koreas state media said last Tuesday that the countrys leader, Kim Jong Un, no longer seeks reunification with South Korea and wants to subjugate its neighbor, through nuclear war if necessary.

A war in the region would be highly material to ocean shipping. South Korea and Japan are major exporters of goods to the U.S., and 40% of the worlds shipbuilding production is in those two countries  with almost all of the other yard capacity in China.





Warning on decision to go to war

A new warning has been issued by two highly regarded experts on North Korea: Robert Carlin, a former CIA and State Department lead analyst on North Korea, and nuclear scientist Siegfried Hecker.

The situation on the Korean Peninsula is more dangerous than it has been at any time since early June 1950, they wrote. We believe Kim Jong Un has made a strategic decision to go to war. They maintained that Western policymakers belief that North Korea would not dare to attack is a grievous failure of imagination that could be leading to a disaster.

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North Korea has a large nuclear arsenal, by our estimate, of potentially 50 or 60 warheads deliverable on missiles that can reach all of South Korea, virtually all of Japan (including Okinawa) and Guam. [Kims] recent words and actions point toward the prospects of a military solution using that arsenal.

The New York Times and The Washington Post recently highlighted Carlin and Heckers warning. The New York Times noted that nuclear threats from North Korea are intensifying while the world is preoccupied with other wars.

South Korea and Japans share of US imports

According to Census Bureau data, the U.S. imported 7.46 million metric tons of containerized goods from South Korea in 2023, or 4.2% of total U.S. seaborne containerized imports. Last years U.S. imports from South Korea were valued at $51.3 billion or 5.7% of total value.

Americas imports from South Korea were led by motor vehicles, vehicle parts, electrical equipment and components, household appliances, chemical products and general-purpose machinery.

Imports from Japan totaled 4.47 million tons (2.5% of the total) in 2023, valued at $53.8 billion (5.9% of total import value).

Topping the U.S. import list from Japan were vehicle parts, chemical products, farm and construction machinery, engines, turbines, power transmission equipment, and electrical equipment and components.

South Korea and Japans share of shipbuilding

The hypothetical threat to shipbuilding is an even bigger variable for the broader shipping industry than the risk to seaborne goods volumes.



A war in the region that affected yard output would limit new capacity for ocean transport, supporting higher future freight rates.

According to Clarksons Research Services annual shipbuilding review, South Korea accounted for 26% of global newbuilding tonnage delivered last year. Japan accounted for 14%. China led the market by far, delivering 51% of new tonnage in 2023, with remaining countries yards delivering just 9%.

South Korea dominated LNG carrier deliveries in 2023, accounting for 83% tonnage. South Korean yards delivered 39% of tanker newbuilding tonnage, 33% of dry bulk tonnage and 29% of container-ship tonnage.

Clarksons expects South Korean yard output to increase this year, with Japans to increase by a lesser extent and Chinese output to remain stable.

In terms of new orders placed in 2023, 60% of contracted tonnage went to China, 24% to South Korea, 11% to Japan, and 5% to other countries.

Click for more articles by Greg Miller

Related articles:

The post Shipping and geopolitical risk: Dont forget about Korean Peninsula appeared first on FreightWaves.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 22, 2024) - Steppe Gold Ltd. (TSX: STGO) (OTCQX: STPGF) (FSE: 2J9) ("Steppe Gold") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding term sheet (the "Term Sheet") pursuant to which Steppe Gold, either directly or through a wholly-owned subsidiary, will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares (the "BG Common Shares") of Boroo Gold LLC ("Boroo Gold") in an all-share transaction (the "Proposed Transaction").

Transaction Highlights:

Boroo Gold is a leading gold producer with an average gold production of over 60,000 oz per annum and an expected mine life of beyond 2030.

Creation of a leading gold producer in Mongolia with a near-term production target of 200,000 oz per annum including the committed ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion.

Steppe Gold's production is expected to increase from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

Total gold production is expected to rise to approximately 160,000 oz per annum in 2026 as Steppe Gold's ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion comes on stream.

The Proposed Transaction is expected to add to the over 4,000,000 oz AuEq existing resource base of Steppe Gold.

Boroo parties have the first right to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru following the completion of the Proposed Transaction at fair market value.

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and CEO of Steppe Gold, stated: "The Boroo Gold acquisition will establish Steppe Gold as Mongolia's largest and leading gold producer. Our production is expected to triple over the next two years to 90,000 ounces and 160,000 ounces by 2026, increasing our financial strength to repay the non-dilutive US$150M project financing for the ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion and to advance our exploration portfolio. It also provides shareholders with improved optionality at our Tres Cruces gold project in Peru while maintaining our focus on growing our production profile in Mongolia."

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Proposed Transaction Details

Pursuant to the Term Sheet, Steppe Gold will acquire all of the BG Common Shares in consideration of the issuance of that number of common shares of Steppe Gold that results in Boroo Pte Ltd. ("Boroo PL"), the beneficial shareholder of Boroo Gold, directly or indirectly holding a 58.8% interest in Steppe Gold (calculated on a fully-diluted basis) upon completion of the Proposed Transaction.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to the negotiation of definitive agreements ("Definitive Agreements") which will be negotiated during an exclusivity period ending on March 18, 2024 (subject to extension by both parties). The Definitive Agreements are expected to include customary representations, warranties, deal protections, including non-solicitation covenants and reciprocal expense reimbursement in certain circumstances. Steppe Gold has also agreed to give Boroo PL certain registration rights.

Additionally, for a period of six months following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Boroo PL, and/or its associates will have a right of first refusal to acquire the Tres Cruces gold project located in Peru through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Anacortes Mining Corp., at fair market value.

The conditions to execution of the Definitive Agreements include but are not limited to: (i) completion and satisfaction of due diligence (at the full discretion of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL); (ii) absence of a material adverse change in respect of Steppe Gold or Boroo Gold, as applicable; (iii) approval by each of Steppe Gold's and Boroo PL's board of directors to enter in the Definitive Agreement; and (iv) negotiation of Definitive Agreements in form and substance satisfactory to the parties.

Following the negotiation of the Definitive Agreements the Proposed Transaction will be conditional on the receipt of all necessary regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals, and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by the shareholders of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL.

Steppe Gold and Boroo PL will use best efforts to obtain executed lock-up agreements from certain of their shareholders to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at their applicable meetings. Directors and officers of each of Steppe Gold and Boroo PL that hold shares of the respective entities, as applicable, will enter into lock-up agreements to agree to vote their shares in favour of the Proposed Transaction at the meetings.

The parties to the Term Sheet will co-operate to ensure the Proposed Transaction is structured in compliance with Toronto Stock Exchange rules and applicable securities laws, including Multilateral Instrument 61-101, as applicable, as well as with respect to any necessary formal valuations and fairness opinions, which, if required, will be prepared by qualified, independent valuators in due course.

The Term Sheet provides that Boroo PL will have the right to nominate two directors of Steppe Gold and key executive management of Steppe Gold will remain in place. Following the completion of the Proposed Transaction, Steppe Gold will be the sole shareholder of Boroo Gold.

Benefits of the Proposed Transaction

The Proposed Transaction is expected to provide meaningful benefits to shareholders of Steppe Gold, including:

Increased production from 30,000 to 90,000 oz per annum in 2024 and 2025 and 160,000 oz per annum by 2026.

Strong cash flow and increased financial strength to service ATO Gold Mine Phase 2 Expansion debt and project financing.

Funding for exploration programs and further acquisition opportunities in Mongolia.

Increased optionality for the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru.

Creates a multi-asset producer with a strong base and focus in Mongolia.

Advisor

Steppe Gold's legal counsel is Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP.

Qualified Persons

The technical content of this news release regarding Steppe Gold has been reviewed by Enkhtuvshin Khishigsuren, PEng., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Technical Reports

Additional information with respect to Steppe Gold's Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project, including its AuEq resource base, is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold dated November 6, 2022 and entitled "Altan Tsagaan Ovoo Project (ATO) 2022 Mineral Resources & Reserves Report (NI 43-101)". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Further, information with respect to Steppe Gold's Tres Cruces Oxide Project is contained in the technical report of Steppe Gold, dated August 21, 2023 and entitled "Form 43-101F1 Technical Report Preliminary Economic Assessment". A copy of the said report can be obtained from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Steppe Gold

Steppe Gold is Mongolia's premier precious metals company and 100% owner of the ATO gold mine and the Uudam Khundii project in Mongolia.

About Boroo Gold

Established in 1997, Boroo Gold LLC is a leading gold producer in Mongolia with over 50,000 tons per day mining fleet, 5,500 tons per day mill and carbon-in-leach circuit gold processing plant, 3,000,000 tons per annum heap leach and carbon-in-columns plant, with a workforce of over 500 people. Boroo Gold LLC operates Boroo mine in Selenge province, as well as owning and operating the adjacent Ulaanbulag mine in Mongolia.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain statements that constitute "forward-looking statements", and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws collectively "forward-looking statements". These include statements regarding Steppe Gold's intent, or the beliefs or current expectations of the officers and directors of Steppe Gold for Steppe Gold's growth and valuation post-closing and future market conditions for metals.

When used in this news release, words such as "anticipated", "expected", "future", "opportunity", "ongoing", "potential", "proposed", "vision" and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements as well as phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "could", "may", "should", "will", "would" or the negative connotation of such terms.

As well, forward-looking statements may relate to future outlook and anticipated events, such as the consummation and timing of the Proposed Transaction; the entering into the Definitive Agreements; the terms and conditions thereof; the proposed board of directors and management team of Steppe Gold following the Proposed Transaction; the length of the exclusivity period; the satisfaction of the conditions precedent to the Proposed Transaction; the strengths, characteristics and potential of the resulting company; the potential for value creation of Steppe Gold shareholders; and discussion of future financial or operational plans, projections, objectives, estimates and forecasts and the timing related thereto of Steppe Gold and Boroo Gold, including with respect to the ATO gold mine and Tres Cruces gold project.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including those relating to required shareholder, regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals; obtaining sufficient number of lock up agreements; the results of any formal valuation and fairness opinion; exercise of any termination rights under the Term Sheet and the Definitive Agreements; meeting other conditions precedent in the Term Sheet; material adverse effects on the business, properties and assets of Steppe Gold or Boroo PL; discrepancies between actual and estimated production and test results, mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; and such other risk factors detailed from time to time in Steppe Gold's public disclosure documents including, without limitation, those risks identified in Steppe Gold's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022, which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedar.com.

Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management's good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date those statements are made. Except as required by applicable law, Steppe Gold assumes no obligation to update or to publicly announce the results of any change to any forward-looking statement contained or incorporated by reference herein to reflect actual results, future events or developments, changes in assumptions or changes in other factors affecting the forward-looking statements. If Steppe Gold updates any one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that the company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information

Steppe Gold

Bataa Tumur-Ochir, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Jeremy South, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Shangri-La office, Suite 1201, Olympic Street 19A, Sukhbaatar District 1, Ulaanbaatar 14241, Mongolia

Tel: +976 7732 1914

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195096
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 Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad share price has climbed 68% in five years, easily topping the market decline of 5.1% (ignoring dividends). On the other hand, the more recent gains haven't been so impressive, with shareholders gaining just 51% , including dividends .

After a strong gain in the past week, it's worth seeing if longer term returns have been driven by improving fundamentals.

See our latest analysis for Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad

To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' 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 the last half decade, Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad became profitable. That would generally be considered a positive, so we'd expect the share price to be up. Since the company was unprofitable five years ago, but not three years ago, it's worth taking a look at the returns in the last three years, too. We can see that the Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad share price is up 68% in the last three years. In the same period, EPS is up 43% per year. This EPS growth is higher than the 19% average annual increase in the share price over the same three years. So you might conclude the market is a little more cautious about the stock, these days.

The company's earnings per share (over time) is depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers).

KLSE:SBAGAN Earnings Per Share Growth January 22nd 2024

It might be well worthwhile taking a look at our free report on Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad's earnings, revenue and cash flow.

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What About Dividends?

When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. As it happens, Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad's TSR for the last 5 years was 81%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return.

A Different Perspective

It's good to see that Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad has rewarded shareholders with a total shareholder return of 51% in the last twelve months. That's including the dividend. That's better than the annualised return of 13% over half a decade, implying that the company is doing better recently. Given the share price momentum remains strong, it might be worth taking a closer look at the stock, lest you miss an opportunity. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. To that end, you should be aware of the 3 warning signs we've spotted with Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad .

We will like Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad better if we see some big insider buys. While we wait, check out this free list of growing companies with considerable, recent, insider buying.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Malaysian 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.
SUBANG JAYA, Malaysia, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the global search for Taylor's University new Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barry Winn joins the institution today, bringing nearly four decades of expertise in higher education leadership, research, and academic development.

Taylor's Education Group Executive Chairman, Dato' Loy Teik Ngan welcomed the move of Professor Winn into the Taylor's University family. "We are pleased to have Professor Winn as the new Vice-Chancellor and President of Taylor's University. His remarkable experience and visionary leadership perfectly resonate with our commitment to fostering excellence in education. We eagerly anticipate the transformative impact that he will usher in, propelling Taylor's University to new heights of success and innovation."

Professor Winn has a solid track record in higher education leadership.

In his capacity of the Vice-Chancellor of Sohar University in Oman from 2015 to 2022, the University grew its student body to 7,000 and a dedicated academic staff of 180. Professor Winn previously held key positions at reputable institutions where he served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Development at the University of Bradford, and prior to that the Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the University of Hull. His earlier roles include Dean of the School of Life Sciences at the University of Bradford.

In response to his vision for the institution, Professor Winn said, "I will ensure we continue to aim high to allow Taylor's to reach its full potential and become a global leader in progressive and innovative teaching, research, and knowledge transfer. The vision over the next decade is to position Taylor's as a world-leading institution, equipped to address the challenges of the modern world. To achieve this, my leadership will prioritise creating a positive campus environment, making Taylor's the preferred institution for a diverse community of students and staff."

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Professor Winn's contributions to research are noteworthy. His extensive list of publications includes over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and three book chapters, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of optics and vision science. He has also contributed to academic standards through his role as a reviewer for the Quality Assurance Agency (UK) and the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority (OAAA) as well as serving as external examiner for undergraduate and postgraduate programs as well as PhDs at several universities around the world.

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SOURCE Taylor's University
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with Minister of People's Power for Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Gil Pinto, Azernews reports.

Within the framework of participation in the 19th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the meeting discussed the agenda of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Venezuela in humanitarian, cultural and other fields, as well as bilateral and multilateral contacts.

While discussing the active agenda of bilateral cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the ministers noted the comprehensive cooperation covering all spheres, particularly education and tourism. They emphasised the existing opportunities for further expansion of this cooperation.

Both Ministers emphasised the importance of political consultations between the foreign ministries of their countries as a means of regulating relations between Azerbaijan and Venezuela. The sides exchanged views on future political consultations and considered other issues of mutual interest.
TTI Impact Investment Panel

Top Tier Impact

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Top Tier Impact Investment Panels held during the World Economic Forum at the Fuxagufer on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024, proved to be highly successful for the investors in attendance.

Family offices, impact fund managers, and thought leaders had the opportunity to connect and discuss in two events, Energy Transition and Decarbonisation and Responsible Investing and Conscious Leadership, all against the breathtaking backdrop of a mountain overlooking the village of Davos.

The day unfolded across two themes and their respective panel discussions:

"Energy Transition and Decarbonization"



The morning started with a welcome by Ilkay Demirdag , Top Tier Impacts Head of Global Events, followed by opening remarks by Alessa Berg , Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact. The keynote speech from Eric Usher, Head of the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative , set a thoughtful tone for the discussions ahead in the energy space.

Next was the panel moderated by Ilkay Demirdag. This panel delved into the transformative landscape of transitioning to sustainable energy and reducing carbon footprints. Lucy Thomas, Head of Sustainable Investing at UBS , shared her expertise in investment stewardship and sustainable investment strategies. Derek Brooks, Principal at 2150 , shed light on innovative climate tech investments reshaping urban environments. Tarkan Ozballar, CEO of EnerGreen , presented the pioneering blockchain-based solution for investing in renewable energy plants, emphasizing the integration of technology into energy generation and storage facilities. Vivian Claire Liew, CEO of Climate Smart Investments, provided insights into optimizing climate alpha in portfolio valuation.

Responsible Investing and Conscious Leadership



The keynote speech from Begum Dogan Faralyal, Chairperson of Dogan Holding , set an example of a value-driven family office strategy, followed by the Daring to Lead for Impact Workshop by Azrya Bequer & Astrid Brinck from KAVANA . This hands-on workshop explored practical strategies and exercises to help participants unlock their potential, enhance self-awareness, and empower them to lead with clarity.

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Next was the panel moderated by Alessa Berg. This panel featured Dr. James Gifford, Head of Sustainable & Impact Advisory at Credit Suisse , Dr. Christian De Prati, Board Member at Rothschild & Co , Maureen N. Dunne, Author of The Neurodiversity Edge , Michael Birkin, Founder of kyu Collective , and Serhat Cicekoglu, Co-Founder of Sente Ventures . Collectively, the panelists provided an in-depth insight into responsible investing and conscious leadership, emphasizing a range of diverse approaches and strategies essential for fostering a positive impact in the business realm.

Alessa Berg, Founder and CEO of Top Tier Impact, states If we are to solve the global climate crisis, we need accelerated collaboration to create synergies like investments and partnerships across all parts of the climate ecosystem. It takes investors, founders, corporates and policy makers to all play an essential role. This is what Top Tier Impact is here for and we see these synergies happening each day in our network, so we want to keep scaling it and do it for all impact leaders on a mission.

We express gratitude to our sponsors:

Energreen , is the world's first blockchain-based solution for renewable energy investments.

1MTN , based in Tallinn, Estonia, focuses on carbon removal projects, pledging to restore one million hectares of degraded land in Africa by 2030.

Dogan Holding , is a responsible investment firm with a pioneering role in various sectors like energy, finance, tourism, automotive, and real estate.

Sente Ventures is a venture capital platform specializing in deep-tech investments in human essentials (food, agriculture, and water) and industrial circular economy (mobility, energy storage-Battery, and new materials).

KAVANA , a 30-acre retreat center, and educational institute fostering a strong community through intimate spaces and transformative programming.

The Neurodiversity Edge , offers a transformative framework to address crucial human resources opportunities in the 21st century.

Top Tier Impact

Top Tier Impact (TTI) was founded in 2019 by Alessa Berg to create more synergies in the climate and ESG space. She observed systematic gaps in the space over time and created TTI with the mission of accelerating the mainstream adoption of impact and sustainability in the way companies do business all around the world.

We connect the most action-driven, results-oriented impact leaders globally and accelerate the success of our members by enabling investments, partnerships, deals, knowledge exchange, and more.

www.toptierimpact.com

support@toptierimpact.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11a6b705-8f0d-4611-a346-3ae895b749f8




A new program aims to create career pathways in the clean-energy sector for Milwaukee-area women, people of color, youth who have not finished high school and others who face systemic barriers to good-paying jobs.

A $1.5 million federal grant to the Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership will provide funds to create a pre-apprenticsehip training program for careers related to electric vehicle charging. The EV Skilled Trades Employment Program aims to expose more than 200 people to EV-charging manufacturing, installation and maintenance jobs.

The program is expected to launch at WRTP's Wisconsin Avenue headquarters in fall. It will offer support services, connections to union partners for apprenticeships and additional training, and job placement assistance. It is expected that 100 people will have begun training by the end of the program.

"We're really looking to welcome everybody into the workforce with this grant to ensure that everyone has that equitable career pathway to a trade occupation," said Lindsay Blumer, president and CEO of WRTP.

The funds will be used to hire instructors and program staff, fund support services to help participants complete their training and find jobs.

WRTP's program partners include Milwaukee Urban League, The Way Out, My Way Out and EmpowHer.

Blumer said the program's focus on Milwaukee is in response to double-digit employment rates in some parts of the city.

"While the narrative is that unemployment is quite low in Wisconsin, there are pockets within the Milwaukee area where unemployment is reaching between 12 and 17%," and" she said. "It's vitally important that we make sure that everyone is aware of these opportunities so that they have access to these family supporting wages and they have access to training through our programs. So that we actually have a really skilled and diverse workforce going forward."

Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su and representatives of the U.S. Department of Transportation announced the grant Friday during a visit to the Milwaukee Electrical JATC North Campus in Wauwatosa.

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The grant is one of 30 made available by the Biden administration through the U.S. Department of Energy's Ride and Drive program. The grants, totalling $46.5 million, aim to "boost electric vehicle (EV) charging performance, resiliency, and reliability; support equitable access to clean transportation solutions; and grow the clean energy workforce."

Steve Patton, of Milwaukee, connects his 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 electric vehicle to a high-speed charging network station in the Walmart parking lot in West Milwaukee in September 2022.

Bills advance to enable buildout of statewide fast-charging network

The announcement coincides with progress in the Legislature on a pair of bills that would clear the way for the state Department of Transportation to request proposals for the buildout of a statewide high-speed charging network on Wisconsins interstates and state highways.

The DOT has been awarded $78.5 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program to work with businesses to build the network, which would site a Level 3 charging station every 50 or so miles along the highways. NEVI funds would cover up to 80% of the cost of installing the fast chargers. NEVI is a first step in the Biden administrations goal of building out an affordable and national network of at least 500,000 publicly available chargers by 2030.

More: Expansion of the electric vehicle charging network delayed by arcane Wisconsin law

The state DOT began accepting proposals from companies on Jan. 12, but will not be able to spend the money without a change in state law that exempts companies that operate the chargers from regulation as a utility. Under current law, non-utilities can not sell electricity by the amount delivered, a requirement of NEVI, and can only charge customers based on the time theyre plugged in and charging.

Bills that would exempt charging station operators from the state's utility law and authorize retail electricity sales at charging stations were approved this week by the state Senate and are expected to be taken up by the Assembly in coming weeks.

Building a high-speed charging network along state highways is seen as a critical step to encouraging broader adoption of electric vehicles, said Chelsea Chandler, climate, energy and air program director for Clean Wisconsin.

"I think that EV charging and the lack of sufficient infrastructure is the number one thing that's holding back EVs from going more mainstream," Chandler said. "People want to be able to travel with the confidence that they can get where they need to go and be able to charge as they may need to ... I think the ideal is to make it functionally as easy to charge an electric car as it is to fill up your gas car at the pump."

She said buildout of the highway charging network, and subsequent efforts to bring convenient high-speed charging to communities across the state, will create demand for workers.

"I really do think there's a lot of opportunity and infrastructure means jobs," Chandler said. "So I think that there's a really good opportunity to kind of embrace EV charging as part of the local clean energy economy."

The announcement coincides with progress in the Legislature on a pair of bills that would clear the way for the state Department of Transportation to request proposals for the buildout of a statewide high-speed charging network on Wisconsins interstates and state highways.

The DOT has been awarded $78 million through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program to work with businesses to build the network, which would site a Level 3 charging station every 50 or so miles along the highways. NEVI funds would cover up to 80% of the cost of installing the fast chargers, which under NEVI rules must be owned and operated by private entities.

The agency released a request for proposals on Jan. 12, but will not be able to spend the money without a change in state law that exempts companies that operate the chargers from regulation as a utility. Under current law, non-utilities can not sell electricity by the amount delivered, a requirement of NEVI, and can only charge customers based on the time theyre plugged in and charging.

The bills that would authorize retail electricity sales at charging stations were approved this week by the state Senate and are now under consideration by the Assembly.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: New program aims to open job opportunities in EV charging industry
Unifrutti Group has announced the acquisition of Verfrut, a prominent fresh produce grower and exporter with operations in Chile and Peru

The acquisition supports Unifrutti's strategy of building a globally diversified premium fruit platform

The acquisition also complements Unifrutti's product offering by adding a strong table grape and cherry platform to its existing fruit basket

ABU DHABI, UAE, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Unifrutti, a global leader in premium fresh fruits production and distribution, announced the acquisition of 100% of Sociedad Exportadora Verfrut S.A. ("Verfrut"), a key South American fruit producer and exporter.

Unifrutti Group Logo

Established in 1996, Verfrut is a prominent fresh produce player with presence in Chile and Peru, where it operates over 7,500 hectares of fully integrated farming and processing facilities. Verfrut grows a wide array of crops, including grapes, cherries, apples and blueberries, is renowned as the largest exporter of grapes in Peru and relies on a robust commercial and distribution network in the US, the EU, South America, and China.

This acquisition represents an important step in expanding Unifrutti's integrated and sustainable global multi-fruit platform. With Verfrut's inclusion, Unifrutti becomes a major fruit company in Chile, one of the largest production centers for grapes and cherries globally, and a leading apple player in the southern hemisphere. Furthermore, this acquisition strategically extends Unifrutti's reach into Peru, a key hub in the fresh produce sector.

This move aligns with Unifrutti's objective to meet increasing global demand for premium high-quality fruits, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable growth and reinforcing its leadership in the dynamic global fruit industry. The acquisition also extends access to a wider range of premium produce for the Group's customers, with consistent, secure, and diversified supply.

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Completion of the acquisition is subject to satisfaction of closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Post-completion, Unifrutti will maintain Verfrut's global operations, ensuring business continuity.

Mohamed Elsarky, Group CEO of Unifrutti, emphasized the strategic significance of this deal, stating: "Our acquisition of Verfrut is a strategic milestone, propelling Unifrutti's growth and reinforcing our commitment to excellence and innovation. This expansion not only enhances our current operations but also paves the way for future growth, as we aim to become the preeminent and most sustainably driven global multi-fruit company, setting new standards in the industry. This transaction also resonates deeply with our shared family-owned heritage, and we are humbled and privileged to be entrusted with Verfrut's 30-year legacy, collaboratively forging a regional champion in Chile and Peru."

Romano Vercellino, founder and President of Verfrut, expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter: "We are making an excellent decision with this transaction. Verfrut is our life. After many years of hard work together with our great team, we are confident that Unifrutti will maintain our values that have guided us since the establishment of Verfrut. We look forward to the next stage of our successful journey."

About Unifrutti Group:

Unifrutti Group is one of the main global players in the fresh fruit market, vertically integrated in production, marketing and distribution, with more than 14,000 hectares of land in Chile, Italy, the Philippines, and South Africa. The Group oversees the entire value chain and thanks to direct ownership of land located in different climate zones of the world, it is able to serve more than 50 countries all year round, distributing approximately 500,000 tons of fresh fruit to over 500 customers.

Founded in 1948 by Guido de Nadai, Unifrutti now employs more than 11,000 people at its headquarters and operating locations in Japan, Chile, South Africa, the Philippines, Italy, Spain, Uruguay, Turkey, the Middle East, China, and India.

Unifrutti Group is part of ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company with a broad portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of the UAE's diversified economy.

For more information on Unifrutti, please visit www.unifruttigroup.com, write to info@unifruttigroup.com or follow Unifrutti Group on LinkedIn.

About Verfrut:

Founded in 1996 by Romano Vercellino Dellafiori, Verfrut has grown to become one of the largest fruit producers and exporters in Peru and Chile, exporting more than 15 million boxes last season, with a projection of over 25 million boxes in the coming years. With more than 7,500 hectares, it is a fully integrated company that grows, processes and markets 100% of its fruit worldwide.

The company has a diversified product range, the main ones being grapes, cherries, stone fruits, apples and others, and a solid and geographically varied commercial reach thanks to its commercial platforms in the US, Asia, EU and South America.

For more information, visit www.verfrut.cl.

Media contact:

Alessandro Gonzato

+357 99 421657

alessandro.gonzato@unifruttigroup.com

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SOURCE Unifrutti Group
US Virginia State Senator Proposes Bill Protecting Digital Asset Miners and Validators

The Virginia State Senate has introduced legislation that aims to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for the mining and transactions of digital assets. The bill, Senate Bill No. 339, was proposed by Senator Saddam Azlan Salim, the youngest member of the legislative body.

The proposed legislation seeks to foster a supportive environment for the digital asset industry in Virginia by addressing key issues such as mining regulations, securities registration requirements, and tax treatment.

The key provisions of the Bill include exemption from money transmitter licenses for digital asset miners, exempting individuals and businesses engaged in digital asset mining activities from obtaining money transmitter licenses. This provision seeks to reduce regulatory burdens and encourage the growth of the digital asset mining industry in Virginia.

Another key provision includes legislation prohibiting industrial zones from banning digital asset mining or imposing more restrictive noise ordinances than those in place for other industrial activities. This aims to safeguards digital asset miners from discriminatory practices and ensures equal treatment within industrial zones.

The bill also seeks to introduce legislation to exempt issuers and sellers of digital assets from securities registration requirements if specific conditions are met. These conditions include ensuring that the digital asset is not considered an investment contract and that the issuer or seller takes reasonable precautions to prevent the initial buyer from purchasing the asset as a financial investment.

The Virginia State Senate is currently discussing the proposed legislation. If it passes the Senate, it will move to the House of Delegates for consideration and, if approved, will be signed into law.

Let us know what you loved about this article, what could be improved, or share any other feedback by filling out this short form.
Looking for a stock that has been consistently beating earnings estimates and might be well positioned to keep the streak alive in its next quarterly report? Manulife Financial (MFC), which belongs to the Zacks Insurance - Life Insurance industry, could be a great candidate to consider.

This financial services company has seen a nice streak of beating earnings estimates, especially when looking at the previous two reports. The average surprise for the last two quarters was 9.17%.

For the last reported quarter, Manulife came out with earnings of $0.69 per share versus the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.60 per share, representing a surprise of 15%. For the previous quarter, the company was expected to post earnings of $0.60 per share and it actually produced earnings of $0.62 per share, delivering a surprise of 3.33%.

For Manulife, estimates have been trending higher, thanks in part to this earnings surprise history. And when you look at the stock's positive Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction), it's a great indicator of a future earnings beat, especially when combined with its solid Zacks Rank.

Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven.

The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.

Manulife currently has an Earnings ESP of +3.90%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner.

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Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric.

Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, but that may not be the sole basis for their stocks moving higher. On the other hand, some stocks may hold their ground even if they end up missing the consensus estimate.

Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.

Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report

Manulife Financial Corp (MFC) : Free Stock Analysis Report

To read this article on Zacks.com click here.

Zacks Investment Research
HONG KONG, Jan. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Zetrix, a leading layer-1 public blockchain platform by MY E.G. Services Berhad ("MYEG"), Web3Labs Hong Kong, a Web3 development and investment powerhouse, and venture capital firm Summer Capital, today announced a strategic collaboration to propel Hong Kong's ("HK") Web3 ambitions and establish Zetrix as the preferred blockchain infrastructure for HK government-aligned applications.

Zetrix, Web3Labs & Summer Capital to Accelerate HK's Web3 Roadmap Initiatives

Zetrix expands its current mission of government and enterprise-focused Web3 development in alignment with HK's Fintech Promotion Roadmap, in addition to significant partnerships announced with key stakeholders in China, Malaysia and the Philippines.

Web3Labs leverages its network of over 500 partners throughout the Web3 ecosystem including government bodies, institutions, investors, exchanges and media outlets to foster additional growth and innovation facilitated by the city state.

Summer Capital counts several market-leading startups within their portfolio, including Asia's leading licensed virtual asset service provider Hashkey Group, and SEBA Bank, which received approval-in-principle licenses from the Securities and Futures Commission to offer virtual asset services in HK.

Leveraging on the partners' complementary strengths, this partnership shall:

Enhance Zetrix as the preferred Layer-1 platform for blockchain applications aligned with the HK's government's Web3 vision and catalysed by further collaborations with industry and business communities.

Catalyse HK's and the region's financial systems and technologically forward corporate players to realise structured and concurrent industry trails of innovative blockchain use cases such as Real World Asset (RWA), stablecoin issuance and financial instruments tokenisation to enable localised and international services, which can be connected seamlessly and securely via Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) and Verifiable Credentials (VC).

Launch a dedicated Global Accelerator Program to incubate and nurture promising startups building applications on the Zetrix platform. This program will provide mentorship, technical support, and access to funding opportunities, empowering budding entrepreneurs to contribute to HK's Web3 landscape and serve a global audience.

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Zetrix is also assessing strategic investment in Web3Labs, gaining access to its extensive network of Web3 experts and ecosystem partners. Such a move will further bolster Web3Labs' ability to support promising Global Web3 startups via HK's progressive Virtual Assets regulations.

"We are thrilled to partner with Web3Labs, a trusted leader in the Web3 space," said Wong Thean Soon, co-founder of Zetrix. "This collaboration will add immense value to Zetrix and provide invaluable support to the burgeoning Web3 ecosystem with key stakeholders in HK. Zetrix and its international supernode on China's national public blockchain, Xinghuo BIF is the natural choice for Web3 decentralised applications (DApps) that serve the objectives of HK Special Administrative Region (SAR) to be a global crypto hub."

Caspar Wong, CEO of Web3Labs, added, "We are excited to welcome Zetrix as a strategic partner. Their commitment to aligning with the HK vision and fostering innovation makes them the perfect platform for building impactful Web3 solutions. By combining our capabilities and focusing on government and enterprise-aligned applications, both parties aim to foster a thriving Web3 ecosystem that benefits businesses, government entities, and citizens alike."

Henry Chen, Head of Fintech and Blockchain of Summer Capital, said, "We are glad to connect and join forces with Web3Labs and Zetrix to build an enterprise-grade ecosystem on blockchain infrastructure in HK. We have observed tremendous progress and business development for Web3 here in HK for the past few years. Bringing Zetrix to HK marks our strong commitment to embracing the market and its opportunities."

About Zetrix

Zetrix is a layer-1 public blockchain that facilitates smart contracts and delivers privacy, security and scalability. Zetrix's cryptographic infrastructure can be introduced to multiple industries to connect governments, businesses and their citizens to a global blockchain-based economy.

Developed by MY E.G. Services Bhd, the cross-border and cross-chain integration with China's national public blockchain Xinghuo BIF enables Zetrix to serve as a blockchain gateway that facilitates global trade by deploying critical building blocks for Web3 services such as Blockchain-based Identifiers (BID) and Verifiable Credentials (VC).

About Web3Labs

Web3Labs aims to respond to the policy statement from the HKSAR Government on the development of virtual assets in Hong Kong. Through on-the-ground support, investment acceleration, technical collaborations, and compliance assistance, Web3Labs is dedicated to helping global Web3 companies establish their presence in Hong Kong. Its goal is to create a one-stop gateway for Web3 entrepreneurs. As of the end of July 2023, Web3Labs has provided consultation or support for nearly 1,000 Web3 enterprises in terms of advice or on-the-ground services.

In the face of global technological competition, Web3Labs strives to stay at the forefront of the market, understand the needs and challenges of entrepreneurs, and provide a legitimate, comprehensive, professional, and in-depth entrepreneurial environment. Web3Labs aims to foster national and even world-class unicorns, contributing to the steady advancement of the industry.

About Summer Capital

Summer Capital is a leading investment management and advisory firm with a presence in Hong Kong, mainland China and Southeast Asia dedicated to investing in early and growth stage companies in "new economy" sectors such as fintech, blockchain infrastructure and application, consumption technology and healthcare. Summer Ventures, an affiliate of Summer Capital Limited, is an institutional venture fund dedicated to promote and invest in "real world application" of blockchain technology and infrastructure, leveraging Summer Capital's past experience of investments in blockchain and fintech industries since 2018.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zetrix-web3labs--summer-capital-to-accelerate-hks-web3-roadmap-initiatives-302040236.html

SOURCE MYEG; Zetrix
Wanted: a real estate scam victim willing to talk to the law.

Oklahoma County Assessor Larry Stein is looking for someone who has been scammed online a certain way to come forward so law enforcement can pursue action against "Mandi," the perpetrator, and any of her partners in crime.

"It's a Zillow ad for a nearly $400,000 home being sold by a family because they want to reward someone with the blessing of being a FIRST-TIME-HOMEBUYER and the BARGAIN PRICE IS $8,800!!!!" Stein said in an email alert.

It's potentially devastatingly simple: Send money electronically and get a home dirt cheap. But the alleged seller, listed on the ad, doesnt have the legal right to sell the house.

Read a fake Zillow ad for a home for sale that wasn't actually for sale

The ad appeared with different extremely low prices. Here's an example:

"Read FIRST THEN CALL MANDI ON (206) 742-1229. Home is for a first time buyer for a cash sale of $10,800! Selling my home because my family & I own many homes across the US. Once a year, we sell one or a few of our homes to first time buyers for under $25,000. This is done to bless a family or individual that needs it but, also as a tax write off for us.

"Not interested in anyone with representation or anyone that has previously owned a home. So, no realtors, no lenders, no investors, no wholesalers, no attorneys. BUYERS ONLY."

No reporters either, apparently. "Mandi" hung up when called by The Oklahoman on Thursday.

Such fake sellers can get away with it if the victims let them, Stein said.

RELATED: Scammers target renters where it hurts: in the (fake) security deposit

When I contacted the seller and explained I was contacting Zillow to stop this fraud, she said, Weve made a lot of money on this and theres nothing you can do about it. How does it feel to be scammed! Stein said. What arrogance. Sadly, she may be right."

Oklahoma County Assessor Larry Stein

He said he contacted Zillow and legal authorities, and "sadly there is little they can do with this out-of-state fraudster until we can find someone who was scammed and lost money. Thats when law enforcement can help, please contact my office so we can help stop these scams!"

Story continues

The fake ad for the Oklahoma City home had been corrected by Thursday, but fakes with the same basic spiel for homes in Boston and San Antonio, Texas, were posted on Zillow and another home sale site. Both were changed within minutes of The Oklahoman's call to "Mandi."

The Oklahoma City homeowner probably was in no danger of losing her home, just people fooled by the ad. But sometimes a deed is altered or misused in a scam.

Zillow Ad

In Oklahoma County, Stein said, property owners, residential or commercial, can take steps to keep a deed from being changed without their knowledge.

Go to https://alert.okcc.online/ and the county clerks office can register a deed, and if anyone attempts to tamper with it, someone will contact you by phone, email or text to alert you.

It's a recent example of real estate fraud. There are other kinds.

Renters get scammed, too, not just want-to-be homebuyers

"For rent" signs for sale in The Realtor Store at the Oklahoma City Metro Association of Realtors. Rental listing scams are on the rise again, the Realtors say.

In 2021, scammers were fooling renters here by posting property listings they dont own as rent houses  on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace or elsewhere  then collecting a security deposit from someone who wanted to live in the home, then disappearing.

In 2022, scammers did that again. It's an old trick.

"If it sounds too good to be true, it is!!!! Dont be scammed on a real estate deal like this. Dont turn your dream of a new home into a nightmare by allowing someone to take your money without anything to show for it, Stein said.

Sign Up: Weekly newsletter Real Estate with Richard Mize

Senior Business Writer Richard Mize has covered housing, construction, commercial real estate and related topics for the newspaper and Oklahoman.com since 1999. Contact him at rmize@oklahoman.com. Sign up for his weekly newsletter, Real Estate with Richard Mize. You can support Richard's work, and that of his colleagues, by purchasing a digital subscription to The Oklahoman. Right now, you can get 6 months of subscriber-only access for $1.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Zillow scam: Oklahoma official going after online home sale fraudster
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

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Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card potential drawbacks

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Editorial Disclosure: The information in this article has not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The details on financial products, including card rates and fees, are accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the banks website for the most current information. This site doesn't include all currently available offers.
An attorney representing Nebraskas executive branch in its ongoing labor dispute with the states largest public employees union argued Friday that there is no evidence the state intentionally violated a prior court order to pause return-to-office directives for the branchs remote workers.

Meanwhile, the attorney representing the Nebraska Association of Public Employees argued that some state agencies are still actively violating the Commission of Industrial Relations order granting union members temporary relief from Gov. Jim Pillens return-to-office mandate.

Their Friday morning arguments came amid the latest court hearing in the labor dispute that has for months pitted Pillen against a faction of his employees after the governor in November broadly ended remote work allowances for state workers with few exceptions.

Pillens executive order prompted NAPE officials to file a petition in December with the CIR  the state tribunal responsible for settling public labor disputes  seeking to force the executive branch to bargain over the issue.

As the CIR mulls that petition, the commission in December granted temporary relief to NAPE members, allowing them to continue working from home while the litigation remained unsettled.

But soon after the CIR issued that order, NAPE alleged that some state departments had ignored the commissions ruling, instead informing individual remote employees that their previously agreed-upon hybrid or work remote arrangements had been terminated.

NAPE then filed a petition in Lancaster Countys District Court asking a judge to enforce the CIRs order and to hold the state in contempt for violating the commissions order to pause return-to-office directives.

Days later  before a District Court judge could take up the unions petition  the CIR issued a follow-up order making clear that the states termination of individual work-from-home agreements amounted to a violation of the commissions initial order.

But at Fridays hearing, where District Court Judge Andrew Jacobsen did take up the unions bid to hold the state in contempt over that violation, the states attorney and an executive branch official who testified insisted that any such violation was unintentional.

We had divergent opinions as to what the order said, said Mark Fahleson, who the state retained to represent the government in the labor dispute and who suggested Friday the CIRs initial order was ambiguous.

Both Fahleson and Jason Jackson, the states chief human resources officer who testified at Fridays hearing, seemed to take issue with the CIRs inexact language of the commissions December order that called for the state to leave the status quo in place.

The commissions Dec. 29 order defined the status quo as the agency policies relating to remote work assignments, and the application of those policies, which were in place just prior to the issuance of the executive order.

In his testimony, Jackson noted that the agencys policies prior to Pillens executive order put the discretion of remote work agreements in the hands of management, arguing that the December order did not inherently undermine the states ability to end remote work agreements with individual employees, since state departments could have done so prior to the executive order.

The CIRs ruling caused a great deal of confusion among our workforce, Jackson said, later adding:

It was always our intent to comply. Thats why we sought clarification. It wouldnt have been necessary to seek clarification if we had just intended to bullnose, go forward at odds with the CIRs judgement.

Fahleson said that since the CIR issued its follow-up order earlier this month clarifying its initial order, the state has done exactly as the CIR has ordered.

They have not directed any employees in the bargaining unit who were working remotely to return to work, he said.

But in comments to reporters after the hearing, Justin Hubly, NAPEs executive director, said dozens of NAPE members who work for the Department of Health and Human Services and the State Patrol have been recalled, are recalled and have not been allowed to go back to remote work.

Hubly called Fridays hearing uncharted territory for both the union and the state since, he said, no one has tried to circumvent a CIR order in the years since the State Employees Collective Bargaining Act was passed.

Jacobsen, the judge, seemed to grapple with that unfamiliarity, too, at Fridays hearing, where he asked NAPEs attorney who the court might hold in contempt if he does agree with the unions argument.

I think I have no choice but to say that would simply be the party (to the case), the state of Nebraska, that is not abiding by the order of the CIR, said Joy Shiffermiller, who represents the union.

What if they dont comply with my order? Who are we gonna bring in? The state of Nebraska? Jacobsen asked, before wondering aloud if he had the authority to levy a fine against the state, suggesting there might be sovereign immunity protections at play.

And who am I gonna fine? he asked, adding: And under what authority do I have to order the state of Nebraska to pay attorneys fees?

In the aftermath of the hearing, Hubly acknowledged that the union is a little confused, too, but said NAPE ultimately doesnt want to see the state fined or a state official handcuffed.

We dont care about that, he said. We want a clear order that they are in contempt  that they are still violating this order.

Jacobsen took the matter under advisement and could issue a ruling on the unions contempt motion yet this month.

Top Journal Star photos for January 2024
Staff of the UN mission in Azerbaijan reported on "X" staff account that they visited Alley of Martyrs on the occasion of the 34th anniversary of the 20 January tragedy, Azernews reports.

"Employees of the UN office in Azerbaijan met with the Azerbaijani people to honour the memory of those who died in the struggle for independence," the office said.

Recall, today is another anniversary of the events of 20 January 1990, which entered the history of Azerbaijan as the Bloody January tragedy. On the night from 19 to 20 January 1990, by direct order of General Secretary of the CPSU Central Committee Mikhail Gorbachev, troops of the USSR Defence Ministry, State Security Committee and Interior Ministry entered Baku and several districts of Azerbaijan, the civilian population was seriously wounded, massacres were carried out by shelling from equipment and various types of weapons.

Before the state of emergency was declared to the population, 82 people were mercilessly killed and 20 people were mortally wounded by the military. After the state of emergency was declared in Baku, 21 people were killed in a few days.

Eight more people were killed in the regions and cities where the state of emergency was not declared - on 25 January in Neftchal and 26 January in Lankaran. Thus, 147 people were killed and 744 people were injured as a result of the illegal deployment of troops in Baku and neighbouring regions.
EDITORIAL: They take care from Peter and give it to Paul
Arrest papers allege a Pueblo County School District 70 art teacher had a month-long inappropriate relationship with a student inside his classroom at Skyview Middle School in Pueblo West.

As reported by Gazette news partner KOAA, Pueblo County Sheriff's Office arrested 48-year-old Russell Davis last week for sexual assault on a child. The arrest papers said Davis would invite the student to his classroom to engage in sexual contact, including kissing and inappropriate touching while the door was locked. The affidavit said Davis would tell the student not to tell anyone about the things they did and to keep their relationship a secret.

The arrest documents said the relationship started at the end of last year and the sheriff's office launched an investigation in November after an apparent friend of the student made an online tip to the FBI.

Documents said Davis and the student communicated through a Google document and Facebook Messenger, sometimes discussing explicit sexual conduct.

Davis reportedly told police that he and the student had a friendly relationship and said nothing happened between them except for a hug.

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District 70 said Davis was placed on administrative leave on Nov. 28 and announced he was fired on Dec. 19 after a permanent restraining order was placed to prevent any contact with the alleged victim and the juvenile's mother.

Detectives arrested Davis at his home in Pueblo on Jan. 12 for the following:

sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust

unlawful sexual contact

internet luring of a child

enticement of a child

Read the full story on KOAA.
Standing on claims of divine providence, a Colorado pastor and his wife are facing earthly consequences after allegedly influencing their congregation to invest in a mostly "worthless" cryptocurrency they created, authorities said.

The Colorado Securities Commission filed civil fraud charges against Eligio (Eli) and Kaitlyn Regalado of Denver, INDXcoin LLC, Kingdom Wealth Exchange LLC and others for alleged violations of the anti-fraud, licensing and registration provisions of the Colorado Securities Act, according to a news release.

Regalado, a pastor, and his wife, Kaitlyn, created, marketed and sold a cryptocurrency, known as the INDXcoin, to members of the Christian community, according to the release. The INDXcoin was also offered through the Kingdom Wealth Exchange (KWE), an online cryptocurrency exchange that they created, controlled and operated.

According to the complaint filed by the Colorado Attorney Generals Office, investigators from the Colorado Division of Securities found that from June 2022 to April 2023, INDXcoin raised nearly $3.2 million from more than 300 individuals. The complaint alleges that Regalado targeted Christian communities in Denver and claimed that God told him directly that investors would become wealthy if they put money into INDXcoin.

A post from Eli Regaldo on X says, Sowing into God's kingdom gives you an economic advantage over any one of your competitors.

The Regalados had no experience in cryptocurrency which was clear when a third-party auditors report allegedly described their INDXcoin code as unsafe, unsecure and riddled with serious technical problems, a statement from Colorado Securities Commissioner Tung Chans office says. Despite that report, the Regalados allegedly continued to promote the INDXcoin as a low risk, high profit investment.

The complaint alleges that, in reality, the INDXcoin was illiquid and practically worthless, investors lost millions, and defendants dissipated investor funds to support their lavish lifestyle.

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We allege that Mr. Regalado took advantage of the trust and faith of his own Christian community and that he peddled outlandish promises of wealth to them when he sold them essentially worthless cryptocurrencies, said Chan. New coins and new exchanges are easy to create with open-source code. We want to remind consumers to be very skeptical.

Currently, the INDXcoin website is still active, although its frequently asked questions page was inaccessible.

In a live podcast interview on YouTube titled Following God's Voice Into Crypto, Regalado is shown making claims like, The Lord tells me I need you to take cryptocurrency to my people."

In that same podcast, Regalado admits to previously having been sentenced to prison time for boosting cars while 22 years old.

While the current action sought by the Colorado Division of Securities and Attorney General does not mention prison time, it does seek seeks preliminary and injunctive relief, damages for investors and for a constructive trust to be placed on the defendants property, according to the release.

The Colorado Securities Commission offers tips on its website to avoid becoming a victim of securities fraud.

The commission requests that if anyone has invested with INDXCoin or any of Eli Regalados other entities, to contact the Colorado Division of Securities at dora_SecuritiesWebsite@state.co.us or by calling (303) 894-2320.
Wanted

Pikes Peak Area Crime Stoppers is asking for the publics help finding the following people for whom felony arrest warrants have been issued.

David Raymond Flores  age 41, 5 feet, 7 inches tall, 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of assault 2-strangulation, harassment and violation of protection order.

David Ellwood McRea  age 34, 6 feet, 2 inches tall, 205 pounds, with brown eyes, sought on suspicion of felony menacing, harassment and criminal mischief.

Nathan James Meek  age 41, 6 feet, 3 inches tall, 215 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes, sought on suspicion of burglary 1, assault 2, felony menacing and parole violation.

Angelica Marie Morales  age 20, 5 feet, 2 inches tall, 164 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She is sought on suspicion of sex assault.

Kiara Rhea Powers  age 23, 5 feet, 5 inches tall, 170 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. She is sought on suspicion of accessory, assault 2-peace officer, obstruction peace officer, resisting arrest, vehicular eluding, criminal mischief, criminal impersonation, theft, identity theft, controlled substance, motor vehicle theft, assault 3, driving under the influence, leaving scene of accident and reckless driving.

Daniel Orlando Quintana  age 32, 5 feet, 6 inches tall, 165 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of assault 2-strangulation, burglary 1, trespass 1, criminal mischief of violation of protection order.

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Yoel Aleman Rodriquez  age 47, 6 feet, 1 inch tall, 260 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of attempted murder 2, assault 1, commercial vehicle safety violation, drivers license-driving outside class.

Christopher Thomas Wohltman  age 38, 5 feet, 10 inches tall, 170 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes, sought on suspicion of burglary 1, aggravated robbery and kidnapping 2.

Remain anonymous

If you have information about these fugitives or a serious crime, call Crime Stoppers at 719-634-7867.

You do not have to give your name, and you could earn a reward of as much as $1,000 for information given to Crime Stoppers.

A list of featured fugitives wanted in the Pikes Peak region is on the Crime Stoppers website: crimestop.net.

The people with the following Crime Stoppers numbers need to call 719-444-7866: 277-C24744, 277-C23950, 277-C24819, 277-M25111, 277-M25081, 277-C24964, 277-C24964.
The 100-year-old water truce among seven states of the Southwest may be moving toward open hostilities again as the life-giving but drought-decimated Colorado River is at a tipping point, federal officials say. The Colorado is the most endangered river in America, according to the conservation nonprofit American Rivers.

The river basin is at its driest period in 1,200 years, Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton told Congress in June. She said the states  including Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico in the upper basin and Arizona, Nevada and California in the lower basin  must agree to conserve 2-million-to-4-million-acre-feet of river water next year to avoid collapse of the river system, including hydropower production on Lake Powell and Lake Mead.

The call to conserve that massive amount of water might be compared to the approximate 3.5 million acre-feet consumed by the four upper basin states each year, according to Andy Mueller, general manager of the Colorado River District. The three lower basin states consume about 8.5 million acre-feet annually, he said.

The call for conservation could impact the Front Range directly because Denver, Colorado Springs and many other cities are highly dependent on Colorado River water diverted through tunnels beneath the mountains. Colorado Springs Utilities relies on the Colorado to meet 70 percent of its needs.

The Gazette dispatched a team of reporters, a photographer and a videographer to the diminishing riverscape to tell the stories of those struggling with the 22-year megadrought.

The river stretches for 1,450 miles from the Continental Divide in Rocky Mountain National Park to the Gulf of California in Mexico, although its waters are used up before reaching its natural terminus. It is the primary source of water for some 40 million people and provides agricultural irrigation, hydropower generation, fish and wildlife sustenance, and recreation to much of the Southwest.

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Recurring themes emerged as staff members learned about how the drought and the aftermath of recent wildfires are affecting farmers and ranchers, tourism, the dams, tribal reservations, politics, conservation and average citizens.

Those include:

 Everyone takes from the river and is asking too much of it.

 Some farmers, ranchers and growers are among the first to feel the pinch, leaving their fields go fallow and forcing up the price of some commodities. .

 Scorching wildfires can leave watersheds damaged for years, further diminishing supplies and creating ongoing increased costs for ratepayers.

 Cities in multiple states are calling for voluntary cutbacks. Los Angeles and Las Vegas have issued restrictions.

 Some people who live, work and recreate on river water that accumulates from snow runoff and rainfall say drought conditions ebb and flow. They are optimistic water levels will rebound. But in many locales levels have reached historic lows.

 Meeting the Bureau's call for conservation will require cities and farms and ranches to conserve more. But it's unknown what that might entail.

People realize that there will be sacrifices but say that working together will produce the best results.

Look for The Gazettes series, Tipping Point: The Colorado in Peril, beginning July 17 and running Sundays through August in print and online at gazette.com.
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) Election Observation Mission has announced its intention to closely monitor all aspects of the upcoming snap presidential election in Azerbaijan, scheduled for 7 February, Azernews reports.

According to OSCE/ODIHR spokesperson Kati Andrusch, the distinctive feature of these elections is that they will be held throughout Azerbaijan.

"The mission's tasks include campaigning, social media, organisation of elections at all levels, verification of electoral legislation and its implementation, respect for fundamental freedoms, as well as media coverage and resolution of electoral disputes," she said when asked whether the observation mission covers all regions of Azerbaijan.

In response to a question about the visit to electoral districts in the Garabagh and East Zangazur economic regions of Azerbaijan, K.Andrusch said that additional information on the course of observation will be provided on the eve of the elections.

The OSCE/ODIHR observation mission in Azerbaijan includes 11 international experts from 9 OSCE countries, 26 long-term and 280 short-term observers who will monitor the election process on election day. The mission is headed by Johann Murphy, a native of Ireland.
Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO), on the sidelines of the 19th NAM Summit of Heads of State and Government in Kampala, Uganda, Azernews reports.

The sides discussed potential cooperation between Azerbaijan and the CTBTO, particularly within the framework of international organisations.

Mr. Robert Floyd welcomed Azerbaijan's chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement and Azerbaijan's hosting of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).

The Azerbaijani Minister Jeyhun Bayramov noted that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to cooperation with the organisation in the field of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, which pose a great threat to humanity, and added that the country supports the organisation's vision of a nuclear-free world.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov stressed that many member countries of the organisation have long been victims of the colonial policy of some states, especially France. The Minister emphasised that France refuses to remove the consequences of nuclear tests.
In this file photo, Republican state Sen. Ken Chlouber of Leadville, right, and his campaign manager Dan Campo, left, wave to passing motorists near the Capitol in Denver on Oct. 30, 2002. Chlouber was running against incumbent Democratic U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette in Colorado's Denver-based 1st Congressional District. Chlouber broght the two burros along to draw attention to his campaign.
CHATHAM  Nathan Black, who owns land in Pittsylvania County, lamented restrictions regarding flags in the latest draft zoning ordinance when addressing the board of supervisors last week.

He was referring to the new extensive document that will replace one that hasnt seen a major revamp since it was put together in 1991.

Black said he read all 270-plus pages and was astonished to discover confinements on certain flag uses.

He was doing exactly what county officials want residents to do  speak out if they spot an issue in the draft before it gets set in stone.

Now is the time to voice concerns, Emily Ragsdale, director of community development for the county, told the Register & Bee at a recent interview.

Ragsdale wants to get as much feedback from the community as possible.

We want a document that is going to help this community develop in a positive way, not be over restrictive and not overly infringe on property owners rights either, she explained.

The Berkley Group, a government consulting firm, is handling the project. A county committee this week will get the near-final version of the document before it heads to an ultimate vote by supervisors this spring.

In addition to a website dedicated to updates, an open house was hosted in December for residents to provide feedback to the document used as a tool to regulate land use. Other events were hosted last summer.

We want to hear concerns, we want people to voice those, she said.

And if there are ways we can work through them, we definitely take them into consideration, Ragsdale continued. But if we dont hear any concerns now and its adopted, then theres not much you can do.

The overhaul is happening because things have changed over the last 30 years. For instance, solar, battery storage and data centers werent focus areas in the early 1990s, so those items never made it in.

Itll also help broaden categories to make it much easier for staff members.

For example, currently agritourism has an extremely specific definition. When its so precise, if theres a use not listed, then the need arises for a special-use permit. The permit has to go through committee and the board of supervisors for approval.

Having a more generalized use will allow county staff members to administratively decide if a particular use fits under a category.

It will help generalize uses a little bit more, Ragsdale said while flipping through the current ordinance book that she almost has memorized by heart.

That helps us better regulate them, it makes them easier for us to incorporate new uses that come about that are very similar to existing use categories, she explained, pointing out the new ordinance which was easily half the size of the original. We can just slide that use in and we dont have to go out and reinvent the wheel,

Essentially, the 1991 ordinance document could be considered as being overdone, which in itself isnt a bad thing, she explained.

However, the broader language will make things go smoother, she believes.

The current ordinance has had minor amendments over time. For instance, solar regulations have been added.

However, this is the first time an overall comprehensive update has been performed.

We are trying to make it not only better fit in todays society and how we see development going over 30 years in the county, she said. We also want to make it more user friendly for staff.

Best practices change over the years and needed to be involved. For example, accessory dwellings  like a mother-in-law suite  have become popular. Right now, the current ordinance doesnt allow for such a thing.

Another goal is simplicity. They want to make it easier for the public to understand and interpret. Thats why it has graphics, tables in charges dispersed through the pages of grey text.

In a perfect world, changes would be made on a routine basis.

This should be a living document, Ragsdale said.

Thats because each year the Virginia General Assembly comes out with new legislation that impacts land use.

But regular updates would mean one person would have to be dedicated to doing just that and no other task.

Thats hard to do, especially with a small staff, she said.

The changes

The language on signs was one change Ragsdale mentioned prior to Blacks presentation to the board.

Black had his three sons stand alongside him holding various-sized flags to make his point. He said the new regulation would limit any non-governmental flag  he used the example of Confederate, Black Lives Matter, pride or church flags  to no larger than 3-by-5 feet.

To say that governmental flags is unrestricted while imposing all other flags to a 16-square-foot standard is nothing less than discrimination based on content, he asserted to supervisors.

Flags fall under signs in the draft division.

Non-governmental flags are deemed to be signs and shall be subject to the provisions of this Ordinance, the draft document states. The official flags of the federal, state, county, or municipal governments are not deemed to be signs.

Flag signs  three per parcel  are permitted to be up to 16 square feet, according to the draft. For commercial and industrial districts, the size may be up to 50-square-feet with stipulations surrounding setback for the flag poles.

We have additional signage regulations, Ragsdale explained. Our signage regulations were very minimal before.

Signs encompass everything from a billboard or a directional sign for a church or business.

We will start regulating lighting in commercial areas to help reduce light pollution, she said, naming off another major change. Thats a big thing at night.

The regulation will require lighting in parking lots and exterior lights on commercial property to be shielded and positioned in a way that doesnt create spill over.

It all comes down to impacting neighbors.

The majority of feedback so far has come from campgrounds.

So the consultants went back and looked at the campground regulations they were proposing and they have modified those to help address some of those comments and concerns, she said.

At first, they were proposing to require that main roads be paved. Now thats changed to gravel.

Also, the first version of the draft had a more limiting time period.

What they are proposing is very much in line with what other localities have in this area, Ragsdale said.

Limiting how many animals can be in a residential agriculture district is another example of an area of concern from residents.

They have modified that some to help kind of of alleviate some of the concerns while still regulating the agriculture and residential districts, she said.

When the new ordinance is adopted, it doesnt mean that everything must be brought up to code. Things in place now will be considered legal non-confirming, or grandfathered in, as its more commonly called.

However, a property could lose the non-confirming status if it is dormant. For example, when campground owner retires and closes a property, it may sit idle for three years. If its eventually sold, the new owner would have to bring it up to the new code.

What happens next

The updated version will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday to a joint committee of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, planning commission and board of zoning appeals.

The meeting will happen in the board meeting room located at 39 Bank St. in Chatham.

They will get their final draft, Ragsdale said. Our consultants have incorporated the comments that they received from the public.

The members will only receive the document at that time and hear a presentation from The Berkley Group and Ragsdale.

They will be able to raise concerns and direct The Berkley Group to make modifications if needed.

Tentatively, the ordinance will go to the planning commission in March and supervisors in April. Planners will make a recommendation to adopt it or not. Supervisors will make the ultimate decision.

A public hearing will be held at both of those meetings, giving residents two more opportunities to speak out.

In addition to the December workshop where about 20 to 30 showed up, theres also an online survey available. A paper survey is available at the Pittsylvania County Community Development office.
According to the plan approved by the Defense Minister, the Azerbaijan Army holds a series of events to educate the personnel and promote patriotism with respect to the January 20  National Mourning day, Azernews reports, citing Ministry.

The memory of martyrs was honored with observing of a minute of silence in all types of troops, Combined Arms Army, Army Corps, formations and special educational institutions of the Azerbaijan Army in connection with the 34th anniversary of the tragedy.

As part of the events, military personnel visited the Alleys of Martyrs, documentaries, videos and book exhibitions dedicated to the January 20 tragedy were shown in military units, institutions and organizations.

The ceremonies highlighted the historical significance of the January 20 tragedy, which was purposefully committed against Azerbaijani people, and the successful policy carried out by National Leader Heydar Aliyev and President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev, to inform the world community about the tragic events' truth.

The speakers remembered the dedication of the heroes, who fought for national liberation during that historical period, as well as the heroism of the Azerbaijani people.
The Greensboro Police Department announced late Saturday that police had arrested an 18-year-old woman for the stabbing death of a 21-year-old man Saturday afternoon.

Chaynei Amyah Schuett was charged with the first-degree murder of Ebrahem Osman Ebrahem and held in the Guilford County Jail without bond, police said.

Police said they located Ebrahem after responding to 5939 West Friendly Avenue in reference to a stabbing. Ebrahem was unresponsive to life-saving efforts and was declared dead after being taken to Moses Cone Hospital.

According to police, Schuett knew Ebrahem. The investigation is ongoing.
CHAPEL HILL  A University of North Carolina graduate student charged with fatally shooting his faculty adviser on campus five months ago had visited a gun range the day before the professor was killed and had bought a pistol, according to information from federal search warrants.

Tailei Qi, 35, was arrested in a residential area less than two hours after the Aug. 28 shooting of Zijie Yan inside a laboratory building at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

Qi, charged with first-degree murder and a gun-possession count, was found unfit for trial after a judge said two mental evaluations determined he likely suffers from untreated schizophrenia. Qi was ordered moved to a state mental hospital. His legal situation could change if his condition improves.

The search warrant applications reveal more details about Qi and what authorities say happened, The News & Observer of Raleigh reported. An FBI agent in the days after the shooting sought the warrants to search Qis phone, apartment and car. Warrant documents stating that searches were carried out were filed in court last week.

The shooting resulted in an hourslong campus lockdown and search for the suspect that frightened students and faculty, who had just returned to the university system's flagship campus for the start of the fall semester.

The warrants said a witness inside Caudill Laboratories heard an argument between Qi and Yan, a professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences, followed by five gunshots. Officers found Yan dead in an office area, and the witness saw Qi walking by with a gun in his hand, according to the warrants, which also said other witnesses identified the shooter as Qi.

Authorities found Qi about two miles from the building. Qi, who is from China, denied owning a pistol but said he rented and shot one at a firing range with an instructor two weeks earlier, the warrants state.

But a search of Qis apartment uncovered a notebook with information that led agents to identify someone who then told authorities he had sold a 9 mm firearm a few days earlier to a man he identified from a photograph as Qi, the legal documents say.

Qi's student visa prevented him from legally possessing a firearm, the warrants state. Qis arrest warrant from August accused him of possessing a 9 mm pistol unlawfully on campus.

Staff at the shooting range in nearby Wake County said Qi visited the range on Aug. 17 and Aug. 27, according to the documents, and said Qi rented a pistol that was similar to the firearm that it's believed he had purchased. Qi had purchased 9 mm ammunition at the range, a warrant states, and police recovered shell casings from 9 mm ammunition at the site of the killing.

Authorities have not released a motive for the shooting and said previously they had not found the weapon used in the killing. In paperwork he filled out to use the range, Qi listed Yan as his emergency contact, according to a search warrant.
North Carolina remained in the middle of the pack during 2023 when it comes to dedicated state spending on tobacco prevention programs.

The state dedicated $13.3 million for the second consecutive year to annual funding toward those programs, such as quit lines and public health marketing initiatives.

North Carolina was ranked 27th overall for the second consecutive year, according to the 23rd annual Broken Promises to Our Children report from several anti-tobacco advocacy groups led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

The 2023-24 and 2024-25 state budgets each include $11.25 million in funding toward tobacco-cessation programs overseen by the state.

According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, North Carolina should be spending $99.3 million on tobacco-prevention programs. At the current level, North Carolina is providing just 13.4% of the recommended amount.

Much of the funding the past two years is courtesy of the states precedent-setting $47.8 million settlement with electronic cigarette manufacturer Juul Labs Inc.

Juul agreed in June 2021  at the time the maker of the top-selling U.S. electronic cigarette  to pay the settlement funds over six years to settle a legal complaint by state Attorney General Josh Stein.

The settlement provided $13 million in 2022 and 2023  the largest dedicated amount since $17.3 million in the 2011-12 state budget.

The consent order between Juul and Stein required the cigarette company to make drastic changes to the way it conducts business, including not marketing to anyone under age 21, avoiding the use of social media advertising and verifying the ages of people who buy its products.

National perspective

The coalition said that even with the overall $1.1 billion Juul settlement, only Maine is fully funding tobacco prevention and cessation programs at levels recommended by the CDC.

Just eight other states provide at least 50% of the CDCs recommended funding.

The states also will collect $25.9 billion from the tobacco settlements and tobacco taxes during 2024.

But, they will spend just 2.8%  $728.6 million  on tobacco prevention and cessation programs, down from $733.1 million in 2023, according to the coalition. This funding amounts to 22% of the total funding recommended by the CDC.

The amount states are spending on tobacco prevention pales in comparison to the $8.6 billion a year tobacco companies spend to market cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products in the United States.

Yolonda Richardson, president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said the tobacco industry continues to do everything it can to target our kids, Black communities and other vulnerable communities, especially with flavored products like menthol cigarettes and flavored e-cigarettes.

We know their playbook, and policymakers should be using every tool available to protect our kids and help those already addicted, Richardson said.

The coalition continues to advocate for ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products, establishing significant tobacco tax increases, expanding or introducing comprehensive smoke-free laws, emphasizing media campaigns, and promoted insurance coverage for tobacco cessation treatment.

Legislative efforts

In 2011, the Republican-controlled General Assembly abolished the N.C. Health and Wellness Fund  funded by Master Settlement Agreement monies  after 10 years of existence as part of an attempt at resolving the states budget gap at that time.

The average annual spending on the state programs had been $17 million at that time.

A bipartisan group of N.C. senators reintroduced during the 2023 session legislation that would provide dedicated annual state funding for tobacco-prevention programs.

Senate Bill 116, titled 2023 Youth END (End nicotine dependency) Act was not heard in committee  meeting the fate of similar bipartisan bills filed in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021.

SB116 sponsors want to have $17 million dedicated from the states Master Settlement Agreement funding placed annually in the Tobacco Use Prevention Fund.

The language targets new and emerging tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, especially among youth and people of childbearing age.

Those monies would be focused on:

Collaborative educational efforts between county health departments and school districts;

Evidence-based media campaigns on the health risks of using tobacco;

Prevention initiatives aimed at military personnel in the state;

Grants to community colleges to promote tobacco-free campus;

Tracking tobacco use among youths and populations most at risk from tobacco use, and;

Conducting independent evaluations of these programs.

North Carolinas share of the MSA was $134.1 million in 2022. That annual amount has been shrinking as well in recent years since it is dependent on national cigarette sales and shipment volumes.

Most of the states, including North Carolina, have since siphoned much, if not all, of the MSA payments toward their general funds.

SB116 reflects that reality. After dedicating another $17.5 million in annual MSA funds to the Golden Leaf Foundation, the remaining $99.6 million would go to the General Fund.

Rep. Donny Lambeth, R-Forsyth, has acknowledged the challenge of tobacco-cessation initiatives in tobacco country.

North Carolina has a rich history with both our tobacco farmers and strong corporate partners who have been the backbone of our economy. he said. Tobacco remains an important part of that history.

It is important that we continue to inform our citizens of the risk, and that we particularly make sure our youth are aware of those risks, he said.
Hackers were able to steal the personal data of at least 35.5 million customers of VF Corp. during a December cyberattack, the company said Thursday.

VF is based in Denver, but used to have its headquarters in Greensboro. The company owns such brands as The North Face, Timberland, Dickies and Vans.

The company said in a Dec. 18 news release and regulatory filing that the breach disrupted its distribution operations, including its ability to fulfill customer orders.

The company disclosed in a regulatory filing Thursday it believes the extent of the identity theft is limited since it does not collect or retain in its IT systems any consumer Social Security numbers, bank account information or payment card information as part of its direct-to-consumer practices.

VF said it is cooperating with federal law enforcement and regulatory authorities.

When asked Friday about any potential compensation to affected consumers, VF pointed to the filing disclosures.

While the investigation remains ongoing, VF has not detected any evidence to date that any consumer passwords were acquired by the threat actor, the company said.

VF has substantially restored the IT systems and data that were impacted by the cyber incident, but continues to work through minor operational impacts, VF said.

The company did not report making any ransomware payments as part of the breach.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software employed by hackers that can block access to a computer system until a ransom is paid. In recent years, the targets have shifted from individuals to governments, companies, nonprofits and health care systems.

VF said it believes the impacts of the cyber incident are not material and are not reasonably likely to be material to its financial condition and results of operations.

It said it will pursue reimbursement of costs, expenses and losses stemming from the cyber incident from its cybersecurity insurers.

The timing and amount of any such reimbursements is not known at this time, VF said.

Background

The company said that after it detected the unauthorized occurrences on Dec. 13, it began taking steps to contain, assess and remediate the incident.

That included launching an investigation with external cybersecurity experts, activating its incident response plan and shutting down some systems.

In Thursdays filing, VF said it believes the cyberattack was halted on Dec. 15.

VF said on Dec. 18 that VF-operated retail stores globally were open, and consumers could purchase available merchandise, but there were certain operational disruptions.

In Thursdays filing, VF said its retail stores, brand e-commerce sites and distribution centers are operating with minimal issues.

While VF is still experiencing minor residual impacts from the cyber incident, VF has resumed retail store inventory replenishment and product order fulfillment, and is caught up on fulfilling orders that were delayed as a result of the cyber incident.

HanesBrands breach

VF Corp. is the second global apparel manufacturer to report a cyberattack on its IT platform.

HanesBrands disclosed in a May 31, 2022, regulatory filing that it began experiencing the ransomware attack on May 24, 2022.

HanesBrands said the ransomware attack affected its global supply chain network and ability to fulfill customer orders for about three weeks. HanesBrands said in a Nov. 14, 2023, regulatory filing the ransomware attack cost the manufacturer about $100 million in global sales.

The attack resulted in a $35 million reduction in adjusted operating profit for the second quarter of fiscal 2022, while lowering adjusted earnings per share by 8 cents.

HanesBrands said it took extraordinary and immediate action to re-secure the implicated data set. That included disclosing that it reached a payment agreement of an undisclosed amount to the ransomware attacker.

In exchange, the attacker agreed to not disseminate the information and to delete the information from its systems with confirmation provided. Hanesbrands said it was provided evidence on June 3, 2022, that those actions had occurred.

In the Nov. 14, 2023, filing, HanesBrands reported it had received at least $20.5 million in insurance compensation during 2023.
ATLANTA  Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis hired attorney Nathan Wade to lead the Georgia prosecution of Donald Trump and 18 others over efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Now, allegations of a romantic relationship between Willis and Wade are raising questions about his past work and qualifications, threatening to taint one of four criminal cases against the former president.

She defended her hiring of Wade but has not directly denied a romantic relationship. The claim surfaced in a motion filed by a defense attorney representing a former Trump campaign staffer, who did not provide concrete proof. The lawyer is seeking to get the indictment tossed and to remove Willis and Wade from the case.

Its certainly a huge political problem, it is certainly scandalous and salacious, if true, said Anthony Michael Kreis, a Georgia State University law professor who is following the case. But he questioned whether it affects prosecutors ability to handle the case professionally.

Outside of any effect on this case, Willis, a Democrat, is up for reelection this year and this could become a campaign issue.

The motion filed earlier this month by lawyer Ashleigh Merchant, who represents former Trump campaign staffer and onetime White House aide Michael Roman, alleges Willis paid Wade large sums and benefited personally when he, in turn, used his earnings to take her on trips. Wade has been paid more than $650,000 at a rate of $250 an hour since his hiring, according to records Merchant cited.

Wade did not respond to an email seeking comment.

The judge scheduled a Feb. 15 hearing on the matter.

Merchant has not provided proof of a romantic relationship. She wrote that filings in Wades pending divorce are sealed. She also cited sources close to the two without elaborating. She is now seeking to unseal Wades divorce case. The Associated Press and other news organizations also filed to unseal the case.

Wades wife subpoenaed Willis for a deposition in the divorce case. In a filing Thursday seeking to quash that subpoena, a lawyer for Willis accused Joycelyn Wade of trying to obstruct and interfere with the criminal election interference case.

In a response filed Friday, a lawyer for Joycelyn Wade wrote that Nathan Wade took trips to San Francisco and Napa Valley, Florida, Belize, Panama and Australia, as well as taking Caribbean cruises since filing for divorce, and Willis was an intended travel partner for at least some of these trips as indicated by flights he purchased for her to accompany him.

The filing includes credit card statements that show Wade  after he was hired as special prosecutor  purchased plane tickets in October 2022 for him and Willis to travel to Miami and bought tickets in April to San Francisco in their names.

Joycelyn Wades filing says she is seeking to question Willis about her romantic affair with Nathan Wade, saying there appears to be no reasonable explanation for their travels apart from a romantic relationship.

Willis spokesperson Jeff DiSantis declined to comment Friday on Joycelyn Wades filing.

Willis vigorously defended Wades credentials at a church service last weekend and suggested the questioning of his hiring was rooted in racism. She has three special prosecutors working on the election case  a white woman, a white man and a Black man  and they only attacked one, she said, referring to Wade.

The other special prosecutors are John Floyd, a nationally recognized expert on anti-racketeering laws, and Anna Cross, who worked for two decades as a prosecutor and handled numerous high-profile cases.

Willis cited Wades 10 years as a municipal court judge and more than 20 years in private practice.

His prosecutorial experience is thin. He worked for the Cobb County solicitor generals office, which handles misdemeanor cases, for less than a year in the late 1990s, a county spokesperson said.

In a December 2010 letter, then-Attorney General Thurbert Baker designated Wade a special assistant attorney general. Baker left office the next month. A spokesperson for the attorney generals office said officials have not found any information to confirm that Mr. Wade has served as a Special Assistant Attorney General.

After then-Cobb County Sheriff Neil Warren tapped Wades firm in 2020 to review operations at the local jail, a TV news station sued the sheriff, alleging the investigation was a sham designed to prevent the release of records about inmate deaths. The lawsuit said Wade had no apparent experience, qualifications, or training in conducting jailhouse investigations.

Records indicate Wade billed the sheriffs office $44,000 for 80 hours of work, or $550 an hour, in November and December 2020. The sheriffs office said it had no report or other documents produced from that investigation.

Wade was very involved with the special grand jury investigation that preceded Trumps indictment. That panels foreperson told the AP that Wade generally led those proceedings, describing him as very much a prosecutor. Wade has been a near-constant presence in the courtroom during hearings but its generally other prosecutors who argue motions, cross-examine witnesses or write briefs.

Defense lawyers in Trumps federal classified documents case demanded any records related to 2022 meetings between Wade and White House staff. Records show Wade billed for what he described as travel to Athens; conf with White House Counsel in May 2022. There was a conference call that month between Willis team and the White House counsels office, according to a person who spoke on condition of anonymity, but it wasnt immediately clear whether Wade was on that call.

Theres another charge for Interview with DC/White House. A review of visitor logs at the White House did not turn up any meeting with Wade.

A look at the 19 people charged in the Georgia indictment connected to Trump's election scheme Key people in the Georgia election fraud case Donald Trump Rudy Giuliani John Eastman Mark Meadows Sidney Powell Kenneth Chesebro Prosecutors have said Chesebro, an attorney, worked with Republicans in numerous swing states Trump lost, including Georgia, in the weeks after the November 2020 election at the direction of Trumps campaign. Chesebro worked on the coordination and execution of a plan to have 16 Georgia Republicans sign a certificate declaring falsely that Trump won and declaring themselves the states duly elected and qualified electors. Jeffrey Clark Jenna Ellis Ray Smith A Georgia-based lawyer, Smith was involved in multiple lawsuits challenging the results of the 2020 election in Georgia. He also gathered witnesses to provide testimony before Georgia legislative subcommittee hearings held in December 2020 on alleged issues with the states election. Robert Cheeley A Georgia lawyer, Cheeley presented video clips to legislators of election workers at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta and alleged the workers were counting votes twice or sometimes three times. He spoke to the lawmakers after Giuliani. Michael Roman A former White House aide who served as the director of Trumps election day operations, Roman was involved in efforts to put forth a set of fake electors after the 2020 election. Shawn Still He was one of 16 Georgia Republicans who signed a certificate falsely stating that Trump had won the state and declaring themselves the states duly elected and qualified electors. Still was the finance chairman for the state GOP in 2020 and served as a Georgia delegate to the Republican National Convention that year. He was elected to the Georgia state Senate in November 2022 and represents a district in Atlantas suburbs. Stephen Cliffgard Lee Prosecutors say Cliffgard Lee, a pastor, worked with others to try to pressure Georgia election worker Ruby Freeman and her daughter after Trump and his allies falsely accused them of pulling fraudulent ballots from a suitcase during the vote count. Lee allegedly knocked on Freemans door, frightening her and causing her to call 911 three times, prosecutors said in a court filing last year. Harrison William Prescott Floyd Also known as Willie Lewis Floyd III, he served as director of Black Voices for Trump, and is accused of recruiting Lee to arrange a meeting with Freeman and Chicago-based publicist Trevian Kutti. Trevian C. Kutti Prosecutors allege Kutti, a publicist, claimed to have high-level law enforcement connections. They say Freeman met with Kutti at a police precinct, where she brought Floyd into the conversation on a speakerphone. Prosecutors say Kutti presented herself as someone who could help Freeman but then pressured her to falsely confess to election fraud. Cathy Latham Scott Graham Hall An Atlanta-area bail bondsman, Hall was allegedly involved in commandeering voting information that was the property of Dominion Voting Systems from Coffee County, a small south Georgia jurisdiction. Also charged in the scheme were Powell, Latham and former county elections supervisor Misty Hampton. Misty Hampton She was the elections director in Coffee County. Hampton was present in the county elections office on Jan. 7, 2021, when a computer forensics team copied software and data from the countys election equipment. She also allowed two other men who had been active in efforts to question the 2020 election results to access the elections office later that month and to spend hours inside with the equipment. Read the Trump indictment in Georgia Your browser does not support the iframe HTML tag. Try viewing this in a modern browser like Chrome, Safari, Firefox or Internet Explorer 9 or later.
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
In Bengaluru, India,has inaugurated the nation's first(POC) with the objective of advancing oncology care. Leveraging artificial intelligence, this center aims to provide timely and individualized results for oncologists, patients, and caregivers. Offering a variety of services, the facility includes accurate diagnosis, instant insights, evaluation of cancer risk, development of treatment protocols, and ongoing care.The patient-centric approach includes the identification of eligible individuals for targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The team is also using conversational AI to educate patients and families on diagnosis, treatment FAQs, and connections to support groups.As we inaugurate Indias first AI-driven Precision Oncology Centre at Apollo Cancer Centres, Bengaluru, I am honoured to witness a groundbreaking convergence of innovation and healthcare. This pioneering initiative not only represents a monumental leap in medical technology but also symbolizes hope and progress for patients and caregivers", said Dinesh Gundu Rao, State Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Karnataka.The center facilitates the identification of new patients through automated alerts and assists in ensuring compliance with care pathways, clinical management, and patient benefit programs. Earlier, Apollo partnered with Microsoft to create an AI-driven cardiac prognosis model specifically designed for South Asian data. This was essential as conventional cardiac risk models, relying on European or US data, lacked accuracy in predicting risks within the Indian population.As of 2019, the two companies launched the National Clinical Coordination Committee, incorporating an AI-powered risk API to address cardiovascular diseases. Apollo has extended its technological endeavors by collaborating with a startup to implement virtual reality solutions and integrating smart automation for patient monitoring.
An author suspected of stealing items of significant historical value from the Montana Historical Society, including letters by the wife of famed Western artist Charlie C.M. Russell, and then selling them online, has pleaded not guilty, officials said.

Brian Anthony DAmbrosio, 49, Santa Fe, New Mexico, was charged with theft of major artwork, interstate transportation of stolen property and wire fraud, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said in a news release.

If convicted of the most serious crime, DAmbrosio faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release, the U.S. Attorneys office said.

U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Johnston released DAmbrosio, who appeared by video at his Jan. 16 arraignment, pending further proceedings. Jury trial was set for March 19 in Great Falls before Judge Brian Morris. DAmbrosio's attorney, Colin Stephens, declined comment Monday.

The indictment alleges that from about April 2022 to September 2023, DAmbrosio stole objects of cultural heritage that were more than 100 years old and worth more than $5,000 from the Montana Historical Society in Helena, authorities said in the indictment filed Nov. 2 in U.S. District Court.

The FBI used an undercover agent who posed as a would-be purchaser to contact DAmbrosio, according to court documents.

DAmbrosio, while claiming to do research at the Montana Historical Society, stole items of significant historic value, including letters written by Nancy Russell, wife of Charlie C.M. Russell, the prosecution states in court documents.

Other items included a 1926 Crow Indian program on the 50th anniversary of the Custer Fight, a 1905 Centennial Brewing Letter from Bozeman, and an 1889 Montana Society of the Framers of the Constitution Flag and Program.

Also listed in the indictment as being stolen are an early 1900 Montana Ravalli County Sheriff Card, a Silver Cliff Mining Co. 1907 stock certificates, 1887 U.S. Silver Service Commission letter and 1898 Mexican Central Railway Co. letter.

He allegedly then sold and tried to sell the items on eBay for profit, authorities said.

He did not tell buyers he had stolen the items from the Montana Historical Society, making it appear as if he had authority to sell and transfer the items.

Eve Byron, public information officer for the Montana Historical Society, said she could not offer details due to ongoing litigation.

Needless to say, we are working in cooperation with a range of law enforcement agencies, as well as the U.S. Attorneys Office, to get the stolen items returned, she said in an email.

Byron said the research center, as well as the museum galleries, has been closed for the past year as part of their remodeling and building expansion for the Montana Heritage Centers grand opening in late summer 2025.

Thats given us an opportunity to review our security practices that were in place, and implement enhancements to ensure this doesnt happen again, she said.

D'Ambrosio has written several Montana-themed books such as "Montana Murders," "Montana Entertainers," "Shot in Montana," "Montana and the NFL" and Montana Eccentrics: A Collection of Extraordinary Montanans, Past & Present. He co-owns a wildcrafting herbal store in Santa Fe and moonlights as a licensed private investigator in three states.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan G. Weldon and Jennifer S. Clark are prosecuting the case. The FBI and Helena Police Department conducted the investigation.

Officials note the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
DECATUR  Ace Frehley, one of the original members of the rock band KISS, is scheduled to perform June 29 at the Lincoln Square Theater.

Considered one of the largest acts to perform on the theater's stage, Frehley's show will feature special guests, the Chicago band SIIN.

As a Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Frehley has toured for more than 50 years, performing the top 10 hits from his professional career.

Tickets are scheduled to go on sale soon.

Information will be available through the Lincoln Square Theatre website and Facebook page.

26 famous people who performed at the Lincoln Square Theatre A look back Bob Hope Magician Harry Blackstone John Philip Sousa Heavyweight boxer Jack Dempsey Al Jolson Chico Marx Lionel and Ethel Barrymore Anna Pavlova Russian pianist Pesetzki Presidential candidate Hiram Johnson (1924) Violinist Friedrich "Fritz" Kreisler Magician Rajah Raboid Johnny Russell Ernest Tubb Steppenwolf with John Kay John Hartford Ozark Mountain Daredevils Muddy Waters B.B. King Pure Prairie League Jackson Browne Guitarist Steve Hunter Here Come The Mummies V Shape Mind Big Wreck Pauly Shore
The statute of the commission will be discussed at the next session of the commission on border security and delimitation of the state border between Azerbaijan and Armenia, it was reported in the office of Deputy Prime Minister of Armenia Mher Grigoryan, Azernews reports.

It was noted that the session of the joint commission will be held at the end of January. It was reported that participation of the third party in the meeting is not planned.

It should be noted that the commission is headed by Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev from the Azerbaijani side and M.Grigoryan from the Armenian side.

The fifth session of the commission was held on 30 November last year on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border.
DECATUR  Aziz D. Jarrett-XHamilton told the cop who had just struggled to subdue him after he had fled from a Decatur traffic stop that he carried an illegal gun because there is a lot going on in his hometown.

The 30-year-old defendant, of Decatur, now has a limited view of whats going on in town, as he was sent to prison for a year after pleading guilty in Macon County Circuit Court to the aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

A sworn affidavit filed by State Trooper Scott Bissonnette said he had encountered Jarrett-XHamilton after pulling over a car he was a passenger in on the morning of Nov. 28, 2022.

The driver stayed put as Jarrett-XHamilton took off running, but he stumbled and fell and was soon chased down by Bissonnette. The two then began a hectic struggle on the ground as the defendant resisted attempts to control and handcuff his hands.

As I was doing so, I felt what I thought to be a firearm in his jacket pocket, Bissonnette said. I struggled with Jarrett for an extended time while giving him verbal commands to put his hands behind his back and to stop resisting.

The trooper was eventually aided by other arriving officers and, once his prisoner was handcuffed, asked Jarrett-XHamilton why he carried a weapon he was not licensed to own.

He advised he had the firearm because There is a lot going on. Jarrett said he bought the firearm yesterday (the day before the traffic stop) and paid approximately $100.

Jarrett-XHamilton was sentenced by Judge Jeffrey Geisler at a hearing Jan. 3. He was also ordered to pay $250 to have his DNA added to a criminal database maintained by the Illinois State Police.

2023 mugshots from the Herald & Review Lourash Hirstein Phillip Gehrken Joseph A. Williams Jetrevius O. Jarrett Edwards King-Woods Wilson Derrickson Colby J. Park
TINLEY PARK  Four people were fatally shot in a community outside Chicago on Sunday in what suburban officials described as a "domestic-related shooting."

A suspect was taken into custody Sunday, according to a Tinley Park Public Safety Department social media post. The village of roughly 55,000 people is about 30 miles southwest of Chicago.

Police officers were investigating at the scene of the shooting in a residential area Sunday afternoon, officials said.

"The offender is in custody and scene is secure," the statement said. "Due to ongoing investigation, we are asking residents to stay out of the area."

Further details were not immediately released.
BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn.  Greene County, Tennessee, officials thanked emergency personnel from Sullivan County on Thursday following last months chemical leak at a cheese factory.

Kevin Morrison, Greene Countys mayor, appeared before the Sullivan County Commission to recognize Sullivan County officials, including Mayor Richard Venable, the commission, Sullivan County Emergency Medical Services and Sullivan County Emergency Management.

On Dec. 20, the Greeneville Fire Department was called to La Quesera Mexicana when a leak occurred during maintenance on a valve. The leak was contained and fixed at that time, according to the Associated Press.

A few hours later, a second call about a leak was made. As a result, a total of 29 people were hospitalized and 53 other employees were evaluated for possible illness, according to Greeneville City Manager Todd Smith.

Anhydrous ammonia, which leaked at the factory, can irritate or damage the lungs and burn the eyes and skin.

Ballad Health set up incident command centers at Greeneville Community Hospital and Johnson City Medical Center to handle the influx of patients, according to a news release from the health system.

Medical staff worked with other emergency responders, including from the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and surrounding agencies.

Morrison said emergency personnel from Sullivan County went to Greene County to assist with the response efforts.

Be proud of the service that you have, Morrison told Sullivan County commissioners.

Sullivan County EMS responded with three Advanced Life Support ambulance and one supervisor for a total of four vehicles and seven personnel, Sullivan County EMS Chief Jim Perry told the Bristol Herald Courier.

The emergency personnel from Sullivan County provided assistance with the incident at the factory and coordination of other calls in Greene County, Morrison said.

In addition, Morrison said Sullivan County EMA Director Jim Bean went to Greeneville.

Jim without hesitation organized and coordinated our mutual aid, said Morrison, who added that Bean organized EMS with local hospitals.

Crews from Washington County and Hawkins County also responded to Greeneville.

Sullivan County commissioners gave the local emergency responders a standing ovation after Morrison presented Perry a citation for his organizations efforts.
This is shaping up to be an exciting year for both whole and lactose-free milk, two growing segments of fluid milk consumption that are poised for further gains in grocery aisles as well as Washington, D.C. policy circles.



First, the facts: Even as fluid milk continues its decades-long challenge of eroded consumption as beverage markets diversify and consumer preference shifts to other forms of dairy, both whole milk and lactose-free varieties are bucking that trend. According to data from Circana Inc., which tracks retail sales, whole milk sales rose slightly (up 8 million gallons, or 0.6%) in 2023 over 2022. Because overall fluid sales declined, whole milk now makes up 45.4% of total fluid volume sold and is easily the most popular variety.

Lactose-free milk, meanwhile, reached a milestone. By climbing 6.7% to 239.2 million gallons last year, it surpassed the sales volume of almond beverages, by far the most popular plant-based milk alternative beverage. Almonds annual decline of 9.8% is a big part of an overall consumer move away from plant-based alternatives, which have now seen two straight years of sales volume drops. Buyers are emphatically rejecting years of misleading claims that these beverages are a worthy substitute to dairy.



Whats next?

The National Milk Producers Federation is pushing for full congressional passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which overwhelmingly passed the House in December and stands good prospects of passage in the Senate  if the right legislative vehicle can be found in a jam-packed election year. Bringing whole and 2% milk back to school meal menus is a great way to improve the nutrition of the next generation of milk drinkers. We have a call to action on our website urging senators to take up the bill.

Lactose-free milk is becoming the industrys spearhead in ensuring equitable access to milk across diverse populations in federal nutrition programs. It is simply asinine federal policy to do what some vegan activists are proposing  increase access in federal programs to plant-based beverages that are both nutritionally inferior and now falling out of favor with consumers  when a beverage exists that circumvents lactose intolerance and offers all of milks benefits because it is, after all, milk. You will be hearing more about this in upcoming months as we strive to make 2024 a year when people become more broadly aware of just how critical lactose-free milk can be for effective and fair nutritional choices.

In whats been a challenging time for the industry, what can the success of whole and lactose-free milk tell us? It shows that, for all the proliferation of alternatives, consumers like milk thats most like milk, in taste and composition. They also like milk thats accessible for everyone who wants its benefits. Quality and diversity are promising building blocks for a prosperous future. Thats plentiful in dairy, and this year, what consumers are choosing also can inform better federal policy.





To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2024

January 18, 2024
Attackers claimed to be backed by Russia were inside Microsoft's corporate systems for nearly two months before the company detected their presence, it says in a blog post published on Friday.

Microsoft claimed the attackers had been identified as Midnight Blizzard aka Nobelium, the same group that attacked security firm FireEye in 2020 using a supply chain through the Orion network monitoring product sold by SolarWinds.

This is the second occasion in recent times that foreign actors have spent long periods within Microsoft's corporate networks without being detected.

In July last year, an intrusion into Microsoft's Azure cloud led to the breaching of email accounts belonging to American envoy to Beijing, Nicholas Burns, assistant secretary of state for East Asia, Daniel Kritenbrink and also US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo among others.

Security experts warned that the effect of the intrusion could be much wider than reported, and could affect applications beyond those claimed by Microsoft to be impacted.

In November, Microsoft released a blog post claiming the company had put in place what it called a Secure Future Initiative which it described as a "new initiative to pursue our next generation of cybersecurity protection."

In Friday's blog post, Microsoft said the attacker had used password-spraying  or random guesses  to compromise what it called "a legacy non-production test tenant account" and then used this access to enter "a very small percentage of Microsoft corporate email accounts".

There was no explanation as to how a non-production test account provided a path to corporate email accounts.

Microsoft's statement also made it plain that two-factor authentication, now an article of faith to protect email accounts, was not being used for these corporate accounts.

The company said that the corporate email accounts accessed by the attacked included "members of our senior leadership team and employees in our cyber security, legal, and other functions".

The attackers "exfiltrated some emails and attached documents. The investigation indicates they were initially targeting email accounts for information related to Midnight Blizzard itself. We are in the process of notifying employees whose email was accessed".

The company claimed the incident had "highlighted the urgent need to move even faster. We will act immediately to apply our current security standards to Microsoft-owned legacy systems and internal business processes, even when these changes might cause disruption to existing business processes.

"This will likely cause some level of disruption while we adapt to this new reality, but this is a necessary step, and only the first of several we will be taking to embrace this philosophy.

"We are continuing our investigation and will take additional actions based on the outcomes of this investigation and will continue working with law enforcement and appropriate regulators.

"We are deeply committed to sharing more information and our learnings, so that the community can benefit from both our experience and observations about the threat actor. We will provide additional details as appropriate."

Former Facebook chief security officer Alex Stamos said on social media: "Microsoft just announced that they were breached by the SVR, the same Russian intelligence agency that broke into SolarWinds.

"This is a big deal, and Microsoft owes all of us a much more detailed description of what happened."

Ace British security researcher Kevin Beaumont agreed with this. "I agree with @alex here, Microsoft needs to do a much more public disclosure," he wrote. Microsoft staff use Microsoft 365 email with Exchange Online. Eg I was gossi @ microsoft.com.

"I think MS needs to explain to M365 customers how mailboxes were accessed via password spraying."
Telstra global arm Telstra International has partnered with Trans Pacific Networks (TPN) to build and operate the Echo Cable, a subsea cable to connect the US to Singapore, creating a new route and delivering connectivity in the Trans-Pacific.

Echos subsea system route connects California, Jakarta, Singapore, and Guam. It is a network infrastructure connecting South Asia to the US.

The first Echo segments (Guam-US) will launch in mid-2024, with the remaining segments in 2025.

Telstra will become TPNs operating partner. In addition, Telstra will be delivering cable landing station services for Echo in Singapore and the Network Operations Centre services.

XL Axiata is landing the cable in Indonesia and will be Telstras partner for delivering services into Indonesia.

Telstra International CEO Roary Stasko said the geographical area the new cable would be built in was one of the more challenging regions globally in terms of regulation as well as subsea cable cuts.

Our subsea network scale makes Telstra International uniquely placed to successfully navigate the complexity of these environments to ensure the stability of the worlds digital connectivity, he said.

According to telecommunications market research company Telegeography, demand for bandwidth in the Trans-Pacific is growing at one of the fastest rates in the world with forecasts showing it will increase by 39% year on year until 2029.

Bandwidth plays a critical role in supporting new digital technologies such as AI, IoT, and cloud computing.

The need for digital technologies is expected to soar as connectivity grows to serve businesses and consumers.

TPN is thrilled to partner with industry leader Telstra to expand telecommunication access between the US and Asia. To be partially funded by the US International Development Finance Corporation, the Echo subsea cable system will be a critical element of the Indo-Pacifics digital infrastructure, ultimately strengthening networks and increasing capacity while reducing internet costs in the region, said TPN chief financial officer Aaron Knapik.

The Trans-Pacific is a critical connection point to reach the US, and the geography of these regions means they will rely on new submarine cable routes like Echo for international connectivity, he stressed.

Echos cable system can allow other countries to take advantage of its redundancy. In addition, weve recently added 3Tbps of capacity through the SEA-US cable connecting US mainland to Hawaii, Guam and the Philippines which complements our existing Trans-Pacific cables like AAG, Unity, Faster, NCP, and Jupiter, Stasko concluded.

Recently, Telstra International also partnered with Google and APTelecom to deliver the Pacific Connect initiative, which, it claims, will improve connection for people and businesses in the Pacific.
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John Fetterman, as someone put it, is doing a Bulworth in reverse.

Bulworth was a fictional California senator in the 1990s movie of the same name who suddenly abandoned his establishment politics for an outspoken leftism, and all ended happily ever after.

Fetterman is the real Pennsylvania senator who has suddenly modulated his leftist politics, outraging his former supporters and pleasing his former critics.

The senator is demonstrating how  through theatrical dissent from a few fashionable left-wing causes and strategic rebranding  it's possible to create a Democratic politics shorn of some of its dumbest, most unnecessary cultural vulnerabilities.

Fetterman has distanced himself from the excesses of the left on a couple of key things and done it with a devil-may-care verve that has drawn added attention and underlined his independence.

He has had, to use the term from the Clinton years, some Sister Souljah moments.

(The term derives from Bill Clinton criticizing a pro-riot statement by a not-very-important rapper.)

One of the advantages of such a moment is that, when done correctly, it generates benefits out of all proportion to the significance of the underlying issue.

That's not to say that the Israel-Gaza war or the border, the two substantive issues where Fetterman has gone his own way, aren't important.

But how much is Fetterman really giving away ideologically by robustly favoring Israel in a war with a terrorist group or acknowledging the crisis at the border?

You can still favor Medicare for All while saying Israel should finish the job against Hamas, and you can still support a $15 minimum wage while saying we should get a better handle on the border.

Similarly, it doesn't cost Fetterman anything to say that Bob Menendez of New Jersey, indicted for corruption, is a disgrace who doesn't belong in the Senate.

It's not as though Fetterman is the Senate majority leader.

Fetterman, though, has made his points in pungent, showy ways that gives them more resonance.

 He says he's going to return a $5,000 donation from Menendez's PAC in envelopes of cash.

 He puts up posters of Israeli kidnap victims on his office walls.

 He irreverently shuts down an anti-Israel heckler.

Fetterman isn't really departing from Democratic orthodoxy per se: Other Democrats are pro-Israel and anti-Menendez, while the party didn't used to be as committed to a de facto open border as Biden has been.

What he's doing is declaring his independence from the radicalism of the Left and from the progressive brand.

Now, after proudly declaring himself a progressive for years, he says he's never been one.

Fetterman is also triggering the right people: Earning the contempt of angry and childish pro-Hamas protesters helpfully pushes his image to the center.

The new Fetterman is a throwback to an earlier version of Bernie Sanders, who represented a non-woke socialism.

Not too long ago, Sanders was willing to say that unchecked immigration wouldn't serve the interests of the United States.

Another benefit of Fetterman's high-profile acts of heterodoxy is that they put him on the popular side of these issues.

According to a recent Quinnipiac poll, 26% of voters think more favorably of Fetterman for expressing strong support for Israel, whereas 14% say this makes them think less favorably of him.

On the border, people favor his position 35%-9%.

In sum, Fetterman is pointing to a different path for the Democrats where the party doesn't have to cater to its left, and in fact, can pivot off of it to appear more reasonable.

Make no mistake, Fetterman will use whatever additional credibility he earns with his new tack to try to help President Joe Biden win Pennsylvania in November.

He's still a progressive in all but self-description.

Yet he's probably going to be more popular and harder to beat, and definitely more interesting.

Democrats should pay attention, although they probably won't  ensuring that Fetterman has lots of running room to brand himself as a different kind of Democrat.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
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Everyday throughout America, people plead guilty to crimes they did not commit. There are countless stories of people who have been exonerated after spending years in prison for crimes to which they pleaded guilty.

Why would an innocent person plead guilty to a crime?

It is not because the police have returned to the era of the "third degree," beating suspects with rubber hoses to elicit confessions. Absent some egregious exceptions, police and prosecutors are not torturing suspects into admissions of guilt.

Law enforcement doesn't have to resort to such tactics. People charged with a crime, and represented by counsel, freely and voluntarily plead guilty to crimes they did not commit.

The convergence of three things in the criminal justice system makes the seemingly impossible  innocent people pleading guilty  routine. Sentence guidelines, plea bargains and the "trial penalty" have created the perfect storm of injustice.

A sentence imposed by a judge is not solely within the discretion of the judge. A majority of states and the federal government utilize guidelines in sentencing. A sentence imposed by a judge is not solely within the discretion of the judge.

Sentence guidelines consist of a grid with two values, the prior history score and gravity score. A defendant with a history of criminal convictions will receive a numerical score  the more prior convictions, the higher the score. Each crime has a gravity score. The more serious the offense, the higher the score. The presumptive range of sentence is determined by where the two values meet on a grid.

An accused with a long criminal record, suspected of a serious crime, could face a hefty sentence under the guidelines.

In steps the plea bargain. Crime victims despise those two words; defense attorneys thrive on them; and prosecutors can't survive without them. Politicians deride the system because of the underhanded "deals" made with vicious criminals. Even frontline police officers challenge prosecutors when they perceive that the terms of a plea bargain are too lenient.

There are compelling reasons to plea bargain. Prosecutors are intimately familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of every case. There are circumstances where a plea to a lesser offense is better than a not-guilty verdict. A reluctant witness or a poor witness may also influence plea negotiations.

How can a plea bargain convince an innocent person to plead guilty? The "trial penalty" is the tipping point. Every person charged with a crime has the constitutional right to face a jury of his or her peers. The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to trial. However, those who chose to go to trial, instead of accepting a plea bargain, are often penalized by a much harsher sentence.

The formula for getting the innocent to plead guilty is simple. It goes like this: A guy living in a seedy neighborhood, with a criminal history, is accused of a burglary. He is innocent. His criminal record and the seriousness of the offense would result in a guideline sentence of five to 10 years in prison.

The evidence against him is shaky or nonexistent. The prosecutor offers a plea bargain to a lesser offense with a sentence of one to two years. Although he is innocent, if he goes to trial and gets convicted, he could face a sentence even beyond the presumptive guideline range. The guy faces a Hobson's choice: plead guilty to a crime he didn't commit or face the possibility of years languishing in prison after a conviction.

A 2014 report by the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers found, "There is ample evidence that . . . defendants are being coerced to plead guilty because the (trial) penalty for exercising their constitutional rights is simply too high to risk. This 'trial penalty' results from the discrepancy between the sentence the prosecutor is willing to offer in exchange for a guilty plea and the sentence that would be imposed after a trial."
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President Joe Biden has transformed America's southern border into a humanitarian catastrophe and a national security nightmare. This bloody, deadly mess is a clear and present danger to this republic. But this also is a massive fiscal threat. Biden's obliteration of the border is evaporating federal, state, and local coffers. Precise figures on anything illegal are, by definition, elusive. Nonetheless, the Federation for American Immigration Reform's report, The Fiscal Burden of Illegal Immigration on United States Taxpayers 2023, estimates that taxpayers bleed $182.1 billion in annual benefits to illegal aliens. This includes $66.4 billion in federal spending and another $115.7 billion in state and local outlays to those who have broken into America. "No sweat!" illegal-alien apologists argue. "They work hard, pay taxes, and pull their own weight." If only. "Taxes paid by illegal aliens only cover around 17.2% of the costs they create for American citizens," FAIR calculates. This includes $16.2 billion in federal taxes and $15.2 billion in state and local levies. These $31.4 billion still stick US citizens with 82.8% of the illegals' $150.7 billion annual tab. Extrapolating this figure suggests that  since Biden took control three years ago this January 20  these foreign invaders have siphoned some $452 billion from the U.S. Treasury, state houses, and city halls across America. Specifically: Federal  Welfare  $11.6 billion

 Medical  $23.1 billion

 Law enforcement/justice  $25.1 billion Education  $6.6 billion

 State and local

 Welfare  $2 billion

 Medical  $18.6 billion

 Law enforcement/justice  $21.8 billion

 Education  $73.3 billion

Every penny of this largesse is avoidable. Sealing the southern frontier and requiring that immigrants present visas would halt this relentless onslaught. The fact that illegal-alien encounters have soared 336% under Biden vs. President Donald J. Trump pins this evil on No-Borders Biden and the DEI Democrats.

"The impact of these policies is causing social upheaval, setting states against other states, big cities against surrounding communities, overwhelming school districts and social service providers, as economic migrants from all across the globe pour across our borders," said FAIR President Dan Stein.

This foreign menace plagues U.S. cities and states:

Due to the 37,000 illegals who have swamped Denver since December, Democrat Mayor Mike Johnston said Wednesday that his city faces "a fiscal crisis unlike anything we have seen in the last 25 years." He expects illegals to cost Denver $180 million this year. Denver Health hospital is in critical condition because 8,000 illegals have paid nothing for their 20,000 visits.

Governor Greg Abbott (R  Texas) told Fox Business Network anchor Suart Varney on January 4: "Since Joe Biden has taken office, Texas taxpayers have borne the brunt of about $10 billion in costs for Texas to do the federal government's job to try to secure the border." Some 160,000 illegals have flooded New York City since spring 2022. So, Democrat mayor Eric Adams announced plans to slash spending across the board 5% for three years each. This 15% reduction in police, fire, sanitation, education, and all else totaled $12.25 billion, to keep illegals clothed, fed, housed, and taught. Hence, Adams canceled five Police Academy rookie classes.

Unexpectedly higher revenues let Adams pare these cuts to $10.6 billion. Regardless, New York's citizens anticipate deadlier streets, brighter infernos, dirtier sidewalks, and dimmer students.

Adams detonated a rage bomb on January 9 when he bussed 1,900 illegal "guests" from a rain-soaked tent city to Brooklyn's James Madison High School and banished its children to Zoom classes. This betrayal infuriated Madison's largely black, Hispanic, Democratic parents.

Biden's border-killing policies have lured 8.47 million illegal aliens into the hands of sadistic cartels and rape-happy human smugglers. He shines a green light for foreign criminals, spies, and terrorists. On Biden's watch, 312 of the latter have been nabbed at the border, versus 11 under Trump  up 2,736%. How many have slipped through? Who knows?

Meanwhile, Joe Biden offers US taxpayers two words: Drop dead.
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The National Park Service recently announced a plan to rehab the dilapidated Welcome Park in Philadelphia, which marks the spot of William Penn's home. The proposed project would have included removal of the park's central statue of Penn. Despite his status as the state's founder, he was set to disappear  ironically enough, in the name of inclusivity, the latest historical figure to be tarred as an oppressor.

However, it seems the forces of cultural progressivism had finally gone too far. Swift, bipartisan outrage greeted the new plan. Four days later, the NPS reversed it, saying it was released prematurely. Pennsylvania's Democrat Gov. Josh Shapiro went further, stating definitively that Welcome Park would remain the statue's home.

It's a welcome retreat. What the NPS proposed is not an improvement. It would have been a modern act of vandalism that aimed to rewrite the very history this monument commemorates.

Penn is a pivotal figure, especially in the state that bears his name. Penn (1644-1718) fled religious persecution after his conversion to Quakerism. He arrived in America in 1677 aboard the Welcome, which gave the park its name, and eventually received the province that became Pennsylvania in the settlement of a debt that Charles II owed Penn's father.

Penn is perhaps most famous for his engagement with Pennsylvania's Native American population, primarily the Delaware tribes. He legendarily met with them at Shackamaxon under an elm tree to establish a formal treaty. And under the governing statutes he established for Pennsylvania, they were granted formal legal protections.

Although Penn's power in his province was granted by the British king, he did not govern as a royal. A passionate proponent of religious freedom, he established a free system of governance that anticipated that of the United States. The First Amendment of the Constitution is, in fact, deeply reliant on Penn's principles. Taken as a whole, his contributions to Pennsylvania and the future United States were monumentally constructive, positive and deserve special commemoration.

Sadly, as Penn's later years were plagued by financial troubles and ill health, he did not live to see the success of his province, but his legacy in Pennsylvania endures. In 1982, on the 300th anniversary of the incorporation of the Province of Pennsylvania as a royal colony, the sight of his Philadelphia home Slate Roof House was chosen for a park to honor him. The house itself vanished in the 19th century, but the renowned Philadelphia firm of Venturi Scott Brown was hired to design an installation celebrating Penn, and in 1984 President Ronald Reagan marked the occasion by proclaiming Penn and his wife, Hannah Callowhill, honorary citizens of the United States.

The centerpiece of the park is a maquette, or miniature, of Alexander Milne Calder's monumental bronze William Penn (1888-94) on top of Philadelphia's City Hall. At 37 feet high, William Penn is the tallest statue atop a building in the world and has long been the personification of the city Penn founded. The small-scale version in Welcome Park has been an opportunity for visitors to see the distant and towering statue in an intimate and personal way, as would be appropriate in the context of the park on the site of Penn's home. Its removal in the name of presenting an alternative revisionist history of Philadelphia would be a sad loss.

Philadelphia is not an inviolable museum but rather a vibrant modern city in which things can and will change. The installation of Welcome Park was such a change 40 years ago. No one would debate that the site now requires significant renovation, but it is an important installation with deep Philadelphia roots that should be enhanced, not eradicated.

The public outrage provoked by NPS' Cultural Race Theory-driven reflexive impulse to perceive William Penn as an oppressor no matter what his personal beliefs or actions may have been is a welcome sign that this corrosive philosophy that has done so much damage to our cultural and academic institutions can be defeated.

But this is far from the end of the battle. Congress must prohibit any funds being used to eradicate history. Moving forward, all who value American history  yes, even with its bumps and bruises - should be emboldened to decisively and quickly reject the progressive extremists determined to erase it.

Rep. Scott Perry represents Pennsylvania's 10th Congressional District. Victoria Coates is a Heritage Foundation vice president specializing in defense and national security.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
The Budget Committee of the Bundestag (Parliament of Germany) approved the budget for 2024 with expenditures of about 476.8 billion, new loans worth about 39 billion and compliance with the rule of the so-called debt brake, which, with a small margin of error, prohibits spending more funds from the budget than it receives, Azernews reports, citing foreign media outlets.

After several weeks of political struggle and difficult decisions on austerity, the federal budget for the current year has been adopted. The Bundestag and the Bundesrat (House of Representatives of the federal states) are due to make a final decision on this issue in early February.

It should be noted that on December 13, 2023, after lengthy negotiations, the German government generally agreed on the draft budget for 2024. The authorities found themselves in a difficult situation due to the verdict of the Federal Constitutional Court, which banned spending 60 billion on climate and environmental projects, which led to a serious budget crisis in the republic. Initially, these funds were allocated to combat the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, but the government of Olaf Scholz redistributed them into a new fund. The court ruled almost two years later that the decision was unconstitutional. Now the Cabinet of Ministers has to find these funds from other sources to finance already agreed projects.
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It comes three years too late. But Francis Collins, the former head of the National Institutes of Health, has finally admitted that the COVID-19 lockdowns caused a massive amount of harm  harm to which he and other government public-health experts, such as Anthony Fauci of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, were oblivious because they were obsessed with doing things their way.

The mea culpa came last summer during a conversation hosted by Braver Angels, an organization that promotes dialogue among Americans with sharply different ideologies and political loyalties. Collins, who as NIH director played a central role in shaping Washington's response to COVID-19, was paired with Wilk Wilkinson, a Minnesota trucking manager and podcast host who strongly opposed how government officials addressed the pandemic. The 90-minute exchange, moderated by Boston College professor Martha Bayles, was recorded six months ago but only recently attracted attention when excerpts were posted on social media.

The whole conversation was interesting, but one segment in particular was jaw-dropping. Collins described with remarkable candor just how narrow-minded, how willfully myopic, he and other high-level public health officials had been as they dealt with the crisis.

"As a guy living inside the Beltway, feeling the sense of crisis, trying to decide what to do in some situation room in the White House with people who had data that was incomplete, we weren't really thinking about what that would mean to Wilk and his family in Minnesota a thousand miles away from where the virus was hitting so hard," confessed Collins, who retired from the NIH at the end of 2021. "We weren't really considering the consequences in communities that were not New York City or some other big city."

That was a stunning admission. What he said next was even more scandalous.

"If you're a public health person and you're trying to make a decision, you have this very narrow view of what the right decision is, and that is something that will save a life. Doesn't matter what else happens. So you attach infinite value to stopping the disease and saving a life. You attach zero value to whether this actually totally disrupts people's lives, ruins the economy, and has many kids kept out of school in a way that they never recover from."

"Collateral damage," said Wilkinson.

"Collateral damage," Collins agreed. He and his colleagues were locked in what he now concedes was the "public health mindset"  a monomaniacal approach that blinded them to the injuries they were causing. "A lot of us had that mindset, and that was really unfortunate."

Was it ever.

As early as March 2020, Fauci recommended a nationwide lockdown and called for a "dramatic diminution of the personal interaction" in daily activities. He warned that "life is not going to be the way it used to be in the United States," while insisting that was "best for the American public." Collins said at the time that the only correct approach was "one that most people would find to be too drastic because otherwise it is not drastic enough."

Now, of course, it is far too late to mitigate any of the pain endured by millions of Americans hurt by the government's high-handed edicts and recommendations. Those curbs and controls began with the declaration of a federal emergency and travel ban, which in turn spurred many states to order their own restrictions.

The coast-to-coast lockdown destroyed tens of millions of jobs and at least 200,000 small businesses. It exacerbated numerous social ills, worsened mental illness, and took a deadly toll in missed cancer diagnoses and untreated heart disease. The prolonged school closures inflicted unprecedented damage on children. The social distancing and mask mandates were enforced with a ruthlessness that at times turned despotic. And countless men and women  from ordinary citizens to noted epidemiologists to elected state officials  found themselves demonized, censored, or shunned for challenging those who attached "zero value" to their concerns.

All this damage was caused not by the pandemic but by politicians who abdicated their judgment and left it to public-health experts. Whether out of panic, pigheadedness, or perversity, they declined to balance costs against benefits, a basic function of policymaking. Instead, they insisted they would "follow the science"  as though scientists were endowed with an infallible road map to navigate COVID's complex interplay of disease, economics, education, psychology, and politics in a nation of 330 million people.

The great economist and social historian Thomas Sowell has often observed that "there are no solutions, there are only tradeoffs." That is a fundamental reality in all policymaking. There are pros and cons to everything government does. For officials responding to the pandemic, there can hardly have been a more shocking intellectual failure than the one to which Collins now confesses: attaching "infinite value" to stopping the disease and no value at all to everything else.

The same sort of thinking can be a pitfall in many other areas. Focus on reducing fossil fuel use at any price, for example, and the results will be stunted economic growth and continued misery for many of the world's poorest people. Assign maximum importance to achieving racial diversity in student admissions and the result is affirmative action preferences so lopsided that they violate the Constitution. Allow the prevention of another 9/11 to override every other consideration, and the CIA ends up torturing prisoners in secret "black sites" beyond the reach of law.

From crime to homelessness to addiction to national defense, there are always costs to be weighed against benefits. And if acknowledging tradeoffs is indispensable to the work of government, it is especially so at times of crisis.

Toward the end of the Braver Angels conversation, Collins acknowledged another way in which he and many of his inside-the-Beltway colleagues blundered.

It was folly, he said, to think that Washington knew what was best for the whole nation. "The fact that we could put blanket recommendations across this incredible wide, broad, and diverse country and expect them to be right . . . obviously could not have been correct. And yet that's what was done."

COVID-19 would have been a terrible destroyer in any case. But it was made all the more catastrophic by the failure of politicians and experts who not only were sure they knew best but were unwilling even to consider other views. Americans' respect for public-health experts took a beating during the pandemic, and it is a black mark on Collins's legacy that he was so complacent about the harm the government's policies caused. For belatedly admitting where he went wrong, he certainly deserves credit. Let him continue to speak out, to warn other scientists against falling into the same trap, and he'll deserve a lot more.

Jeff Jacoby is a columnist for The Boston Globe, from which this is reprinted with permission."
Insight DeSantis decided . . . he wouldn't be saved by an angel By Michael Reagan Published Jan. 22, 2024

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Let's go way back to 1976.

Gerald Ford was the sitting Republican president.

Jimmy Carter of Georgia was going to beat him in the fall.

And Ronald Reagan's primary campaign to win the Republican Party's presidential nomination was in deep doodoo.

My father had lost seven primaries in a row to Ford. Most Republicans in Congress were backing President Ford  even Sen. Barry Goldwater, the conservative candidate my father supported in 1964 with his famous "A Time for Choosing" speech.

At one point in the spring of 1976 my father was in his plane on an airport tarmac.

His campaign had no money left to buy jet fuel. He needed a political miracle, a way to live for another day and stay in the primary game.

Lo and behold, at the darkest hour, the angel who came to his rescue was Jesse Helms, the super-conservative Republican senator from North Carolina.

With the backing of Helms and his strong political organization, my father won the North Carolina primary in March, picked up momentum and beat Ford in 23 more primaries.

Then he nearly won the nomination at the contested Republican convention with 1,078 delegates to Ford's 1,121.

My father was asked by Ford to speak at the end of the convention, which he did as a way to preserve party unity and show his support for Ford.

But it was also a brilliant personal political move because my father's speech also served as a launching pad to help him win the 1980 GOP nomination and ultimately the presidency.

Without Jesse Helms' support, my father might have faded away by 1980 and there never would have been a President Reagan.

Likewise, but on a more negative note for the country's health, in 2020 there might never have been a President Biden if South Carolina congressman James Clyburn hadn't come to his rescue during the Democrat primaries.

In the run-up to the South Carolina primary Biden's candidacy was on life support. His party was fractured and in disarray and President Trump looked like a sure winner in the fall.

But then Rep. Clyburn stepped up and called on his state's black voters to get out and vote for Joe  and they came out in force.

Biden won the South Carolina primary and started down the road to winning the Democrat nomination and the White House.

In the 1976 and 2020 primaries my father and Joe Biden were both saved just in time because angels came to their rescue out of nowhere.

But when I look at the 2024 primary, there are no angels ready to fly in and save Ron DeSantis, keep him in the race until the end and earn him a prime-time speaking spot at the GOP national convention this summer.

DeSantis is and has been a great governor of Florida. But he has zero chance of beating Trump for the nomination.

DeSantis' road to the White House in 2024 is already gone and all the bridges are down. He's spent more money than anyone, but he's gone backwards.

If he competes in the New Hampshire primary race, he'll be crushed there by Trump just as he was in Iowa. If he goes to South Carolina, he'll be crushed again.

By staying in the primary race any longer, DeSantis will only hurt the GOP and close the door for himself in 2028.

If he ever hopes to be a viable Republican presidential candidate, he should endorse Donald Trump for president and go back to Florida.

Then, after being the best damn Republican governor he can be for the next four years, he should do what he should have done all along  run for president in 2028.

Nikki Haley obviously is not going anywhere this year, either. If she ever wants to run for president again, she should do what DeSantis should do  quit now.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Michael Reagan is the son of President Ronald Reagan, a political consultant, and the author of "The New Reagan Revolution" (St. Martin's Press). He is the founder of the email service reagan.com and president of The Reagan Legacy Foundation.
Good intentions mean little without follow-through. And 20 years is far too long to wait for that follow-through.

Lee Enterprises reporting found that an arsonist registry OK'd by state legislators in 2004 was empty in 2024.

That's not because the state has no arsonists. The Arsonist Registration Act was signed into law by then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich in 2004, long before the former governor's prison time.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal's website has a landing page titled "Arsonist Information" with a "database" tab. But click on it and all you will find is a blank space with no names.

In the United States, more than 700 lives are lost each year in arson-related fires. Some fire officials estimate that as many as 50% of all fires may be intentionally set.

So creation of an arsonist registry akin to the long-established database of sex offenders was an easy decision.

But the law needed and continues to need funding. In addition, assuming responsibility for its implementation -- the basics of executing a law -- has resulted in two decades of circular finger-pointing and an empty database.

The Illinois Auditor General's Office, which examines the use of public funds and performs audits of state agencies, has repeatedly and as recently as December 2023 cited both the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Illinois State Police for failing to set up and maintain the database.

The state fire marshal's office blames state police, who have not turned over the relevant arsonist information needed for the registry. State police blame lawmakers, saying they have not appropriated money the agency needs to build out a new registry.

Unquestionably, creating and maintaining a database is an investment of time and money. Should it really take 20 years for some person or entity to take on the responsibility of finding a solution?

The cost to build the sex offender registry is estimated at $5 million. With the number of convicted arsonists (believed to be in the hundreds) much less than the number of convicted sex offenders (more than 33,000), building out the arsonist registry would likely cost less.

State police call it an unfunded mandate. The fire marshal's office says it is ready to go whenever ISP provides the data.

An amendment attached to the final version of the bill in the Senate made the requirements for the state police "subject to appropriation" and said they would not start until the Illinois Citizens and Law Enforcement Analysis and Reporting System (I-CLEAR) is implemented statewide.

The state police say that hasn't happened yet. But a 2022 compliance audit of the state police said it happened in 2004.

This is a textbook illustration of the concept of government red tape, and a classic example of multiple individuals and organizations failing to act on and for the public good. Certainly at points over the last two decades, frustrated individuals have brought the problem up the ladder for attention. But the result has been ineffective do-nothingness.

Action on the law has been so dormant that not only has the governor who signed it left politics, but the individual who started the ball rolling -- former state Rep. Michael McAuliffe, R-Chicago -- has been out of politics for five years.

Most don't even know the state is supposed to have an arson registry on the books  even state Rep. Mike Kelly, D-Chicago, who's been a firefighter for more than 20 years.

The state's fiscal picture has improved dramatically in recent years, but the registry is just one of many initiatives in need of financial support. Whether it takes taxpayers, politicians, bureaucrats or journalists to bring the matter to the fore, an arson registry has been a good idea for 20 years. Let's finish this off now.
A Winston-Salem man has been charged in connection with a series of armed robberies throughout the Triad earlier this month, police said Monday.

Patrick Cornelius Davis, 48, of Euclid Street, has been charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with a robbery Jan. 8 at the Wendy's at 2735 Reyonlda Road.

He faces the same charge in a robbery at O'Reilly Auto Parts.

According to police, the incident occurred around 8:50 p.m. Jan. 12 at the store's 6041 University Parkway location.

Store employees told officers that a masked gunman forced them to get into a rear office and then robbed the business of an undisclosed amount of money.

Davis was arrested Jan. 19, then released after posting a $100,000 bond.

After his release, he was charged in armed robberies in Greensboro and High Point.

He was arrested again on Jan. 20 and is being held in the High Point Jail with no bond allowed.
Its common in the chamber of commerce and economic development world for officials and business leaders from one city to visit another city to learn about new approaches and initiatives that work.

One citys officials will visit another city to get ideas, and officials from that city might reciprocate.

That actually was the plan between the chambers of commerce in Lincoln and Topeka, Kansas, a few years ago, but then COVID-19 intervened and postponed the visit.

When Jason Ball returned to Lincoln to lead the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce two years ago, he quickly connected with Matt Pivarnik, CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership, with whom he was acquainted from his time as a chamber leader in Hutchinson, Kansas.

As soon as the announcement was made that I was going to be coming back to the region, Matt and I connected like right after that and started talking about, hey, how can we get our communities interacting together, Ball said.

Pivarnik said the two started brainstorming outside of the box a little bit and had this crazy idea  what if instead of visiting each other, the two cities partnered to both visit another city?

Such an idea has never been done anywhere in the United states, its basically new, Pivarnik said.

But he and Ball thought it was doable, and they got to work evaluating cities.

The Greater Topeka Partnership has an in-house economist, who went to work evaluating cities that might be a good match for Topeka and Lincoln, eventually whittling down the list to seven or eight cities.

Ball said he and Pivarnik did a pretty extensive analysis of the list and came to the conclusion that one city stood out from the rest: Boise, Idaho.

Boise has a lot of similarities to the two cities, including its population and the fact that its a capital city. It also has a lot of characteristics similar to Midwestern cities, Ball said, despite its location in the northwestern U.S.

And it has tackled a lot of the same challenges as Lincoln and Topeka, such as affordable housing and how to attract young people, while also being able to thrive economically.

I think theres just so much to learn from Boise, Ball said.

For their part, officials from Boise are more than happy to welcome visitors from the Midwest.

Were so excited, said Alex Finney, director of events and external relations for the Boise Metro Chamber.

He noted that Lincoln and Topeka could have chosen hundreds of other cities to visit, and the fact that they chose Boise is a big deal.

Were honored, Finney said. Were truly honored.

The logistics of the visit, which will take place July 16-19, are still being worked out, but Ball said anyone from Lincoln who wants to attend is welcome.

Finney said staff members from the three chambers are meeting regularly via phone or Zoom to hash out details of the visit such as events and potential speakers.

Ball said Topeka is planning to bring about 100 people and he hopes Lincoln can bring that many, too, although he said he would be happy with 50 people, which, would really be a meaningful-size contingent.

Attendees are likely to include chamber staff, local business leaders and possibly government and elected officials.

Tickets are expected to cost around $1,800, which Ball said will cover hotel rooms, most if not all meals and event tickets. Travel costs are not included.

The two chambers have set up a website to provide more information about the joint visit: topekalincoln.com.

Were ready to hit the ground hot and heavy and get people booked for this, Ball said, noting that many chamber stakeholders in Lincoln have never had an opportunity like this.

Its gonna be really, really fun.

Top Journal Star photos for January 2024
Proponents of a bill that tweaks how county assessors value certain affordable housing projects say it addresses problems that resulted in skyrocketing values for some Lancaster County properties last year.

But the bill (LB1217) doesnt appear to directly address constitutional issues raised in an appeal now before the Nebraska Supreme Court, though that issue could be moot.

Earlier this month, the Nebraska attorney generals office filed a brief in the case, arguing that the existing law is constitutional, and it appears, at least at this point, that the high court doesnt plan to hear the constitutional issues.

The high court appeal stems from a decision by the Tax Equalization and Review Commission that allowed Lancaster County to use a market-based approach to determine the assessed value of 21 affordable housing projects known as Section 42 housing  low-income properties that use federal low-income housing tax credits.

A 2015 state law allows assessors to use an income-based approach  rather than a market-based approach that compares sales of similar property  to determine values of Section 42 projects.

Because incomes and expenses vary from year to year, in years when a property owner has particularly high expenses, it can reduce the value of the property substantially.

In several instances in Lancaster County, that resulted in values of zero  or even negative values  and prompted the assessors office to ask for guidance from the Tax Equalization and Review Commission.

The commission ruled that the Lancaster County assessor could use the market-based approach, which meant the value of many properties went up dramatically  in some cases more than 500%.

That alarmed affordable housing advocates and others who say the lack of affordable housing makes such housing a priority.

Low-income housing developers said the assessed values would increase property taxes on those properties enough to push many projects into insolvency  and they appealed the commissions decision, which is now before the state Supreme Court. Numerous civic, affordable housing organizations and nonprofits filed briefs in support of the developers.

Developers who use low-income housing tax credits enter into Land Use Restriction Agreements, which restrict rents and residents income for 30 years or more. They travel with the property, so if a property owner sells, those restrictions go with the property, reducing the value.

Lancaster County Commissioner Sean Flowerday, who works for Lincoln Sen. Eliot Bostar and was part of a group looking for a legislative fix, said the bill adds a provision requiring assessors to use a three-year rolling average of income and expenses.

The county never wanted to make affordable housing more expensive, he said.

I believe this will solve the problem of zero values, and thats really the crux of the issue, Flowerday said. Thats the thing no one can live with.

Other counties were raising the issue of low values, and the bill should fix that problem statewide, not just for Lancaster County, he said.

Lancaster County Assessor Dan Nolte and Brian Grimm, field deputy assessor, said the three-year rolling average will help to a certain extent, unless a property has three years of zero or very low values.

The bill also adds language about the Land Use Restriction Agreements, which establishes that those agreements affect the value of the property and requires assessors to take that into account. It also says affordable housing is a legitimate and compelling state need.

But once the appeal was filed, the county introduced a new argument: that the 2015 law violated the state constitutions uniformity clause because it compels assessors to use a different standard than is used for all other property.

Flowerday said the attorney generals brief arguing that the law is constitutional  and that the county improperly raised the issue  made him feel better about having to fix those issues and the current bill fixes the problems with the existing law.

I believe this gets us there, he said.

Jake Hoppe, managing partner of Hoppe Development, which has several low-income housing projects, said the attorney generals brief makes clear there is no constitutional issue with the existing legislation.

The fact that the proposed legislation is generally consistent with the existing law reinforces that, he said.

Additionally, he said, preliminary property values just released by Lancaster County appear to be valued based on the current law and many appear to be closer to the lower 2022 values rather than the huge increases many property owners saw last year.

Still, he said, the county is refusing to settle the appeal of the 2023 cases, despite offers to drop the lawsuit and come to an agreement on reasonable valuation levels.

This is putting projects in jeopardy, especially those serving the lowest income families, he said.

Grimm said his office figured 2024 property valuations on Section 42 housing projects the same way they did last year, following existing law.

And the issue might not be over. Theyre now discussing whether to take those properties that had zero values to the tax commission to see if they can use a market value approach, Grimm said.

Top Journal Star photos for January 2024
Nebraskas gambling regulator is defending its purchase of semi-automatic rifles for each of the agencys 10 investigators, saying the weapons would be needed in the event of an active shooting at a racetrack or casino.

If we had an active shooter event, we have a duty to intervene and to eliminate that threat, said Steve Eppens, an investigator with the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, in defending the $30,351 purchase. Were in this profession to protect the public. Thats what we do.

But the purchase of the fully outfitted, short-barreled rifles for officers whose primary task is enforcing state gambling regulations and laws raised eyebrows among some state lawmakers and some members of the board that oversees the commission.

After questions were raised, records show the commission tried to cancel the order two months after placing it. By then, it was too late.

The purchase also raises questions about the spending priorities of the agency that in the past two years has been thrust into the role of regulating the states first casinos. The agencys leaders bought the rifles before it had even obtained vehicles for all its investigators. The commission currently only has two cars.

Dennis Lee, chairman of the commissions board, said its fair to question the priority of the purchase and whether it should have been brought to the commissions board first.

Were the guns needed? Thats a subjective question, Lee said. The optics is probably not the best in terms of how it was handled.

But he said he can assure the public that the rifles will not be distributed to the 10 investigators until the board has put protocols, policies and procedures in place for the storage, use and training required for the rifles.

The rifle purchase was approved by Tom Sage, the commissions executive director. During a meeting Friday, the commissions board voted to approve Sages plan to retire effective in March. He is currently on medical leave.

With the onset of casino gambling in Nebraska in 2022, the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission has ramped up its number of staff significantly, including investigators. When it regulated only horse racing, the agency had just one investigator. Now it has 10.

The investigators perform such duties as doing background checks on casino and racing employees and investigating incidents within facilities, including violations of rules, customer complaints and crimes.

Eppens noted all the officers are certified by the state and considered deputy state sheriffs under state law. They have the authority to make arrests. They are typically armed with handguns and certified in firearms use.

Just in the 16 months since Nebraskas first state-licensed casino opened in Lincoln, Eppens said, investigators have encountered numerous crimes, including money laundering, drug dealing and human trafficking. There was a homicide last year at Fonner Park in Grand Island.

The reason why we have this (authority) is because of the criminal element that goes along in the gaming industry, Eppens said.

But Eppens and Steve Anderson, the director of enforcement at the commission, emphasized the SIG Sauer MPX short-barrel rifles the commission purchased this summer are specifically for a catastrophic event like an active shooter.

Its about the safety of both patrons and officers, they said.

A shoulder-fired rifle in such a situation is much more accurate than a handgun, reducing the risk that innocent lives would be lost.

And if someone would enter a casino armed and intent on a mass shooting, were gonna win the fight, and Im gonna send my guys home every night, Anderson said. As the director, I want my guys to have the tools they need in the field.

The weapons would otherwise be locked and secured, Eppens and Anderson said, either in the officers vehicles, in the commissions offices in Lincoln or in satellite offices within casinos.

State spending records obtained by The World-Herald show the agency in August purchased 10 MPXs, each outfitted with sound-suppressors, laser sights and other accessories. Law enforcement officers use suppressors on such rifles to avoid hearing damage for officers and to facilitate officer communications.

According to emails obtained in a public records request, Eppens on June 13 last year emailed Sage and Anderson with the $30,000 quote he had received for the rifles and accessories.

Sage responded they should see if we can push this through somehow, and suggested they work with the agencys finance manager to do it.

The guns were purchased from a gun dealer in Henderson, with the accessories bought on June 20 and the rifles on Aug. 1.

On Nov. 17, Eppens suddenly emailed the dealer attempting to cancel the order. Eppens and Anderson said in an interview it was because state senators had raised questions with the commission about the purchase.

I just received a Directive from my Director that we need to suspend our order of the SIG MPXs effective immediately, he wrote. There has been some political issues that have surfaced regarding purchase of equipment and its deployment. Our hope is we can work through this and revisit the order of these rifles soon as they are a very important piece of equipment for the protection of the public as well as officer safety.

He offered to also return all the accessories the agency had already received.

I apologize for this suspension/cancellation of our order, but this is how State of Nebraska government works, he wrote.

The representative responded that he could not cancel the order. The guns were being custom fitted, and that work had already been completed.

Eppens then three days later sent Sage a memo he had written justifying the purchase.

Eppens said he thinks the questions related to ignorance of the investigators law enforcement role.

Anderson said while some commission members ultimately had questions about the purchase after state senators raised the issue, they agreed with it once it had been fully explained to them.

The rifles arrived earlier this month, and at this point are locked in the commission offices in Lincoln. And thats where they will sit, for now.

Lee said he has asked the commission staff to prepare protocols and procedures for the weapons. He expects they will be brought to the commission for approval at a future meeting.

Top Journal Star photos for January 2024
BURLINGTON  Voters will decide next month whether to approve a Burlington Area School District $11 million operational referendum.

If approved Feb. 20, the BASD Board will be authorized to exceed the state revenue limit by $11 million over the next four school years: $6 million in 2024-25, $3 million in 2025-26, $1 million in 2026-27 and $1 million in 2027-28.

The money would be spent to stabilize the district budget, and attract and retain staff. It also would be used on support for staff and students, mental health support, local business partnerships and maintenance.

During its Nov. 13 meeting, the board unanimously approved adding the referendum question to ballots.

If approved, the referendum is anticipated to carry the district forward until at least 2030 and would increase property taxes per $100,000 valuation about $300 over the next four school years, according to BASD.

According to Jill Oelslager, BASD interim superintendent, voting is occurring in February instead of April because district staffing and planning for the next school year starts around that time.

Knowing what direction the community wants to go in regards to funding for the district sooner than later will let us plan moving forward, Oelslager wrote in an email. We know asking for dollars from our taxpayers is a big ask. We believe we are in a place to move the district forward with the financial support from the community.

February will mark the second straight year that Burlington residents will vote on a school district referendum.

In April 2023, voters rejected a nonrecurring referendum that would have authorized the board to exceed the state revenue limit by up to $8 million per year for three school years.

Many Wisconsin school districts are facing similar financial challenges and have offered referendums because the state revenue limit has not increased in several years, despite a $7 billion surplus in the state general fund.

This is the new and expected normal for public education, Oelslager wrote. The state has employed local communities to decide the value of education for their communities. Districts that pass will thrive, districts that do not will fall behind  This isnt a Burlington problem, its a state issue.

Another challenge is state reimbursement for special education, which public schools must provide. The state reimburses public school districts for 33.3% of their special education costs.

Important vote

During an October BASD Board meeting, Oelslager emphasized the importance of the referendum to the future of the school district.

If the referendum fails, the district would have to reduce its 2024-25 school year budget by $5 million.

A reduction of $5 million is a catastrophic adjustment to the school district, Oelslager said in October. It will completely change the landscape of what BASD looks like if we do have to reduce our budget by $5 million.

Those budget cuts would include eliminating 35-40 staff positions, closing an elementary school, redistricting boundaries for all BASD schools and changing the grade makeup of schools, according to Oelslager.

If one elementary school closes, the remaining elementary schools would have students in grades 4K-3, Karcher Middle School would have students in fourth through sixth grade and Burlington High School would have students in seventh through 12th grade.

An elementary school closure also also would result in more students in classrooms. Oelslager said the district projects the average class sizes for grades 4K-5 would increase from 22 to 26.5 students, and the average class sizes for grades 6-12 would increase from 24.8 to 28.8 students.

Moreover, the districts operational programming budget would be reduced by $1.35 million. The 2024-25 school year would have 10 fewer days with longer hours, and student extracurricular fees and facility use fees would substantially increase, according to Oelslager.

The 2024-25 BASD maintenance budget also would be reduced by $250,000, resulting in less money for capital improvement projects.

If the operational referendum does not pass in February, the $5 million budget reduction next year wouldnt solve all of the districts financial challenges.

BASD Board President Peter Turke said in October that those cuts would be a one-year stopgap to balance the budget.

Indeed, if the referendum fails, Oelslager said BASD plans to reduce its annual budget by $2 million in 2025-26 and 2026-27.

If those additional budget cuts occur, were starting to not look like a school district anymore, Oelslager said in October.

Numerous community information sessions have occurred about the upcoming referendum.

Oelslager said common questions at those meetings included people asking why the state seemingly isnt seeing school districts financial difficulties and what will change at BASD if people give the district more money.

She wrote that the school district is committed to reporting out to the community our progress in relation to our strategic plan  which the School Board approved earlier this month. We are committed to building trust and stronger relationships with the community to build upon our educational system for the betterment of student success and the greater community.

For people wanting to know more before the Feb. 20 election, the district has a referendum website at www.basd.k12.wi.us/district/2024-referendum-.cfm with information and frequently asked questions.

People with questions also can call the district office at 262-763-0210, extension 1003, or email Nora Rangel-Kubacki, administrative assistant to the superintendent and School Board, at nkubacki@basd.k12.wi.us.

Twelve photos of Burlington HS seniors returning to Waller Elementary Class of 2023 Students walking into school Lisa Schue and Utopia Pasika High-five Lucy Busse and Angela Bies Easton Schue hugs Angela Bies Adalie Rauch smiles Reese Schuls Lucy Busse High-fives from elementary schoolers Students in gym Lucy high-fives
RACINE COUNTY  Tom Johnson has a unique job.

As one of 10 superintendents of a Wisconsin union high school, he is tasked with leading a district composed of one school that is also a local hub.

Johnson, the Union Grove High School district superintendent, appreciates that distinctive setup.

I think its easier for a community to care about and cherish a high school when it is just this one single entity, he said.

What is a union high school?

Union high schools are their own school districts with their own superintendents and school boards.

A union is its own entity, which is very unique, said Luke Francois, superintendent of Waterford Union High School.

Wisconsin has four types of public school districts: common, unified, union and city of the first class. Most are common school districts, and about 50 are unified districts. Milwaukee Public Schools is the only city of the first class district.

The state has 10 union high schools, and nearly all of them are in southeast Wisconsin.

There are two union high schools in Racine County: Union Grove and Waterford. Kenosha County has two as well: Westosha and Wilmot.

Walworth County has two union high schools: Badger and Big Foot. Arrowhead Union High School is in Waukesha County, and Nicolet Union High School is in Milwaukee County.

In areas with union high schools, there are underlying K-8 school districts. That is an uncommon structure, since most high schools in the state are part of a school district with multiple buildings.

At the Racine Unified School District, for example, there are 12 elementary schools, an early learning center, a middle school, four K-8 schools, an alternative school, three high schools and two middle school/high school buildings.

Johnson leads a building that is officially called Union Grove Union High School. It has five underlying one-school districts: Union Grove Elementary, Raymond, Yorkville, Brighton and Kansasville, which is officially called Dover District 1.

Waterford Union High School has four underlying districts: Waterford Graded, North Cape, Washington-Caldwell and Drought.

North Cape, Washington-Caldwell and Drought, which is officially called Norway J7 School District, are one-school districts. Waterford Graded is composed of three elementary schools and a middle school.

Because they are different school districts, union high school superintendents do not make curriculum decisions with their counterparts at underlying districts. They do communicate about school logistics like scheduling, transportation and canceling classes because of inclement weather.

Superintendents of union high schools communicate with one another as well. Johnson, for example, said he is often in contact with Francois and the superintendents of Westosha and Wilmot high schools.

Higher risk, reward

The union high school model has advantages and disadvantages.

A high school being its own district means there is less bureaucracy. That makes it easier to spend money on and try new initiatives, such as when Union Grove implemented block scheduling in the 1990s.

You have the autonomy and the ability to be nimble, Francois said.

There is more local control because administrators, staff and students are in the same building.

Each entity knows itself, and they just keep doing their great work, Francois said.

However, less bureaucracy also means that if something does not work, the responsibility lies with school officials.

The risk and reward is, I think, much higher, Johnson said. If it works out, I made the decision. I implemented it, I did it and it worked and fantastic, thats great, it helped. But if I go into it and I am wrong, I made the wrong decision and its actually hurting our system. Thats on me.

Johnson, who is in his first year as UGHS superintendent, previously was principal at Union Grove Elementary for 16 years. He believes the union model works very well at UGHS, which has just over 1,000 students.

He appreciates everyone working in one building so he can develop relationships with students, employees and families. Johnson doesnt think he could do his job as well if he was in a separate administrative office.

I am able to get out into the building and have good conversations about what were doing and talk to the kids and the teachers and the principals, Johnson said. It allows you to have a much more intimate relationship with the people that help you run that district  You get to know these families so well, have such an intricate knowledge of them, and that is really something I find extremely valuable.

At the start of his career, Francois taught math for five years at WUHS, which has a little under 1,000 students.

As superintendent, he said all staff working in the same building helps us to be more efficient in coordinating our efforts from the district office down to the classroom teacher.

There isnt that proverbial ivory tower that large districts would have, Francois said. We dont often get that type of localized feedback in large districts, but everyone here is absolutely part of the solution, and thats what I think I love the most about working in this environment.

Challenges

The union high school structure means superintendents wear many hats.

At Waterford, Francois is the superintendent and business manager and the de facto director of curriculum, human resources and information technology.

You tend to do a lot of things OK instead of a few things really, really well, Francois said.

Francois is in his fifth year as WUHS superintendent. He was previously the superintendent and business manager at the Mineral Point Unified School District, so he felt prepared to take on those roles in Waterford, but he said the job is a constant learning process.

Disadvantages of the union school system include occasional difficulty communicating with families and students in kindergarten through eighth grade about what to expect in high school.

Another challenge is that school districts have different ways to assess students and different data systems that do not communicate with each other, making it difficult to gauge students progress when they go from one school to another.

Financial purchases are not always maximized, either. Every school district has to order its own paper, for example, and other basic supplies that would be cheaper if ordered in larger bulk purchases.

Does the model work?

Union high school superintendents meet annually as part of the Wisconsin State Education Convention, which took place this week.

One presentation discussed at a prior convention was about the impact of the union high school and underlying K-8 school models.

The presentation found that, in Southeast Wisconsin, underlying districts and union high schools are getting the same or better performance for similar dollars when compared to K-12 districts, Francois said. If theres not necessarily a problem, then why change?

The unique union high school model seems to have the support of area administrators, and it appears likely to continue.

Eleven photos of the Union Grove HS agriculture program Weighing an egg A student weighs an egg as part of an egg dissection at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave. The egg dissection occurred in the Agricu Katie Hagemann Teacher Katie Hagemann works with a student Wednesday at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave. Teachers aim for students to be educated Carrie Jacobs Agriculture teacher Carrie Jacobs talks to students at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave. When the agriculture program started in fa Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources building The Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources building at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave., was funded as part of a $7.85 millio Shannon Roberts Shannon Roberts is a Union Grove High School senior and FFA officer. Roberts wants to be an agriculture instructor in part because of the ag c Katie writing on egg carton Katie Hagemann, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, helps students during an egg dissection Wednesday at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Col Bearded dragon A bearded dragon is among the animals in Union Grove High School's companion animal class, which involves taking care of small animals like ra Katie Hagemann and student Katie Hagemann, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, center, works with a student during an egg dissection at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Ashley Gunderson Ashley Gunderson is a Union Grove High School senior and FFA officer. Gunderson, who lives on a grain farm, said the school's agriculture clas Katie Hagemann with eggs Katie Hagemann, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, prepares for an egg dissection Wednesday at Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave. Union Grove High School Union Grove High School, 3433 S. Colony Ave. Union Grove HS agriculture program
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.
Thriving digital economy added value contributes over 40 pct to Beijing's GDP

Xinhua) 08:40, January 22, 2024

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.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The war between Ukraine and Russia should be ended by negotiations and Moscow's renunciation of nuclear weapons. This is what Ukrainian Deputy Defence Minister Ivan Havrylyuk said in an interview with Tagesspiegel, Azernews reports.

As Havrylyuk explained, all wars in the world end with negotiations, in this regard, the war between Ukraine and Russia should not be an exception.

According to him, Russia should give up its nuclear weapons when signing any document. The war will end with the return of all Ukrainian territories, however, it is necessary to create a mechanism that will make it impossible for the enemy to attack again.

"Agreements will be signed - on the one hand by a coalition of states that support Ukraine and by Russia on the other. And this document should contain a clause on Russia's renunciation of nuclear weapons because this state is a threat to the world," the deputy defence minister explained.
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.
A Kenosha County Board supervisors proposal calling on Wisconsin legislators to impose stiffer penalties on those who harm or kill police dogs, and a request that would allow the sheriffs department to accept fundraising donations to support its K-9 unit will be considered in committees next month.

Supervisor Erin Decker said the driving force behind her resolution recommending the state to level up punishment for actions resulting injury or death of law enforcement dogs was Deputy Terry Tifft, whose partner, K-9 Riggs, was shot in the head by a wanted murder suspect. Riggs, who was helping to apprehend the suspect, survived the shooting. During Allan M. Browns sentencing last year, Tifft urged legislators to pass tougher laws against those who shoot or injure law enforcement dogs.

Tifft really was the impetus behind this because of what happened to K-9 Riggs, Decker said. He really helped most of it. The resolution is expected to be considered by the Legislative Committee next month.

Currently, the penalty for intentionally injuring a known law enforcement dog is up to three-and-a-half years in prison; for killing a police animal, the punishment is up to six years in prison, according to the resolution. Both come with fines of up to $10,000.

Which isnt a very large penalty and these dogs take years to train, theyre very expensive and theyre a deputy, she said. So, we believe they should have a larger penalty for hurting or killing one.

Reps. John Spiros, R-Marshfield, who introduced the legislation and co-sponsored by Amanda Nedweski, R-Pleasant Prairie, along with several others, proposed a bill last year in the Assembly that aims to increase the punishment for animal mistreatment. Partner legislation, by Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine, has also been introduced in the Senate. The bill would raise the felony level for those intentionally causing injury to a law enforcement animal, or up to six years in prison.

It raises the felony level from an I to an H and then it would be up to the judge, said Nedweski, who is also on the County Board. Fines under either felony level are $10,000, according to statutes.

The bill similarly raises the felony level for mistreatment of any animal that leads to grievous bodily harm or death. It restricts those convicted of misdemeanors from having an animal for up to five years; 15 years for those convicted of felonies. The bill also makes an exception for injuries sustained by dogs used for hunting or training if the injury is cared for as soon as practicable under the circumstances.

The bill has already had a public hearing and would need to be voted in executive committee before consideration on the Assembly floor. Nedweski said she is speaking with Spiros next week.

K9 fundraising

The sheriffs department is also looking for approval from the County Board so it can raise funds for its K-9 unit, according to Sheriff David Zoerner.

Any major corporation can write us a check, a donation, but we cant start raising funds from the public. We cant have free money floating around, we have to know where every dime comes from and accounted for, Zoerner said. So (the request) is a check and a balance for bookkeeping.

According to the sheriff, theres gray area when it comes to receiving community donations designated specifically for department causes, such as funding the K-9 unit.

Theres gray area and we dont want that gray area, he said. So, the (department) can take a check from someone, but it goes into the (countys) general fund.

Zoerner said he has fielded requests from people in the community who want to donate.

We want them to be able to (donate), because you know, dog lovers are hard core, he said.

Zoerner said Riggs popularity has also led to other law enforcement agencies being able to help raise money for their departments K-9 units.

Other agencies from other jurisdictions would invite Riggs to their open houses with their K-9s. Of course, we want to participate and we go, said Zoerner. We have Riggs there and our deputies are doing demonstrations with our K-9s and the agency thats hosting is just selling merchandise like crazy.

Zoerner said he would like the department to be able to capitalize on such potential revenue for the unit. The money would be used for things like training for the dogs and replacing the animals when their time comes up for retirement.

We have a lot of people that want to support us and we want to give them that opportunity, he said. We want to be completely crystal clear where the money comes from and we want to keep this unit as strong as possible.

Its no secret I would like to grow the unit, said Zoerner. The Sheriffs Department K-9 unit currently consists of four other deputies and their police dog partners. And, I dont want to have to come to the taxpayers with my hand out all the time.

IN PHOTOS: Local police K-9 units Pleasant Prairie Officer Mike Algiers and K-9 Chase Local dealership provides wheels for new KPD K9 Local dealership provides wheels for new KPD K9 K9 officer Jaxx sworn in by Twin Lakes Police Department K9 officer Jaxx sworn in by Twin Lakes Police Department K9 officer Jaxx sworn in by Twin Lakes Police Department IRIS - POLICE DOG BROWN SENTENCING ALLAN BROWN TRIAL
Members of the public can make their voices heard on the traffic and road conditions of Wisconsins aging and heavily traveled corridor connecting Madison and Wisconsin Dells.

The state Department of Transportation is conducting a corridor study to explore improvements to the roughly 67-mile stretch of highway that is the I-39/90/94 corridor, which goes through Dane, Columbia, Sauk and Juneau counties.

The agency plans to conduct three public meetings, including one online option, starting later this month.

The meetings include:

A virtual meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. on Jan. 30. Interested participants can join online or by telephone.

An in-person meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. on Jan. 31 at Wisconsin Dells High Schools H.H. Bennett Hall, 1501 Brew Farm Road.

An in-person meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. on Feb. 1 at Madison Colleges Truax building, 1701 Wright St., in Madison. The meeting will be held in conference room D1630.

Additional information about the corridor study and public meetings can be found on the state DOT website.

The purpose of the corridor study is to address existing and future traffic demands, safety issues and aging and outdated infrastructure.

Much of the corridor, which was originally constructed in the early 1960s, sees considerable traffic, leading to backups and traffic congestion.

If the study does not become a formal project, state DOT officials estimate that pavement maintenance projects will be needed somewhere on the corridor in 24 of the next 30 years. Whats more, 84 of the 113 bridges along the corridor will be over 50 years old by 2030, with several of those structures not meeting current design standards.

State officials say an Environmental Impact Statement is also being prepared for the corridor project, which will include additional opportunities for public involvement.

Once the environmental phase is complete, the state DOT will make a recommendation to the Transportation Projects Commission to add the project to the states two-year spending plan. Preliminary design work could begin next year, while a formal construction timeline has not yet been determined.

Today in history: Jan. 22 1939: Thornton Wilder 1944: Anzio, Italy 1973: Roe V. Wade 1997: Madeleine Albright 1998: Theodore Kaczynski 2006: Kobe Bryant 2008: Heath Ledger 2009: Barack Obama 2012: Joe Paterno 2020: Wuhan 2021: Hank Aaron 2023: Lunar New Year shooting
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

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In Hamburg, so many people turned out for a demonstration against far-right forces and the Alternative for Germany party that it had to be stopped early for security reasons, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

Organisers of the rally initially claimed 130,000 participants, later adjusting the number to 80,000. Police said there were about 50,000 demonstrators. Thousands also came out in Jena, Kiel and other cities in Germany.

A broad alliance of trade unions, churches, cultural workers, business associations, parties and assemblies called for the rally. Chancellor Olaf Scholz supported the demonstrators and compared the right-wing extremists' plans for "remigration" to the ideology of the National Socialists.

The reason for the protests was a secret meeting of right-wing extremists in Potsdam, an investigation of which was released by Correctiv. There they discussed the idea of so-called "remigration", essentially forcing foreigners and citizens of Germany with migrant roots to leave the country.
From red states such as Arizona, Florida and Indiana to blue states such as California, Massachusetts and New York, a common state budget theme is emerging: The post-pandemic spending party is over; a time of sober fiscal management is beginning.

Spared that hangover thus far is Wisconsin, which means the state can be in a better position to compete with its neighbors for economic growth.

About half of all Americans live in states that have reported short-term budget gaps, potential long-term deficits or both, according to analyses by groups such as the Pew Charitable Trusts and Politico. The full extent may be under-reported because some states dont share a lot of forward-looking fiscal data. While some states have built healthy rainy day fund balances, others havent tackled the problem of spending more than they collect.

Part of the problem is that some states blew through federal aid almost as fast as it arrived from Washington, D.C., sometimes ignoring structural spending problems that pre-dated the 2020 pandemic. Wisconsin has sidestepped that dilemma  at least, for now  by amassing a record rainy day fund and sizable short-term budget balances.

That was part of the message this week when Revenue Secretary Peter Barca told a meeting of the Wisconsin Technology Council the state has socked away $1.8 billion in its rainy day fund, has a projected $7 billion balance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and a $3.9 billion estimated ending balance for the year ending June 30, 2025.

Barca added the state has also retired $415 million in debt, regained its AAA bond rating for the first time since 1982, and saw general fund tax collections (mainly income, sales and excise taxes) rise by 2.1% over 2022.

Thats a positive start for 2024, especially given that many observers predicted a 2023 recession. Predictions vary for what 2024 holds nationally  more of the same, a soft landing or a bumpy ride for the economy.

Whatever the trend, there will be a long line of suitors to spend Wisconsins surplus heading into the next state biennial budget. Wisconsin policymakers should bear in mind that projected balances are precisely that  projected  and they are single-digit percentages of the total state budget of roughly $98 billion over two years.

Even if spending pressure mounts, Wisconsin remains in better budgetary shape than two prominent neighbors: Illinois and Minnesota.

In Illinois, deficits are tied in part to the state spending about one-fifth of its general fund dollars on public employee pensions to make up for it being one of the worst-funded (and managed) pension systems in the United States. Wisconsin, in contrast, is one of the best.

Minnesotas executive budget agency projected the state will have a surplus through fiscal 2025 but face a structural imbalance the following two years.

While Wisconsin competes nationally and internationally in many ways, its more likely to butt heads with Illinois, Minnesota and other neighbors for talent and company expansion or relocation.

Sometimes, its necessary to spend money to make money when it comes to economic development, A current example is a $7.5 million state proposed state investment to support Wisconsins medical tech hub application to the federal Economic Development Administration. If successful, that application could bring $75 million to the state over time.

Similarly, Wisconsin won two of only 44 national planning grants from the National Science Foundation for Regional Innovation Engine hubs between now and 2025. Each of those applications, if successful, could lead to up to $160 million in support over time. Thats a total of $320 million to support two anchors of the Wisconsin economy, next-generation agriculture and innovation tied to the nexus of water, energy and advanced manufacturing.

Wisconsin is also a low-cost state for startups, according to a recent survey by Venture Smarter. Minnesota and Illinois are not. There are other advantages to doing business in Wisconsin that could be levered with a little pump-priming, as well.

With a solid budget outlook and once-in-a-decade opportunities at hand, Wisconsin is a good bet for business growth in coming years.
Abbas Ganbay

A 45-year-old Azerbaijani man carried several dozen children, old people, and helpless passersby across a river of boiling water in his arms, Azernews reports.

On January 17, boiling water rushed into the streets of the city of Novosibirsk due to a burst heating main. The steaming water filled yards and roads in seconds. It happened during rush hour, when children were returning from schools.

At that time, Rza Rzayev, an ordinary loader from the market who was returning home after a hard day's work, happened to be at the scene of the emergency.

"Everything was shrouded in vapour, nothing could be seen at all. People were standing in fear and could not cross the road. I ran to some kiosks and stalls, found pallets there, dragged them, and constructed a crossing. But people were standing there, afraid to go, and children were crying. And I had already checked this road. I ran up to the kids and said: "Don't be afraid, I'll save everyone. There are no strange children," Rza Rzayev said.

And then the man began to pick up younger children and old people in his arms and carry them to another part of the street.

"My gloves got wet, I couldn't feel my hands, but it was nothing. Tears were flowing through me because it was very scary, but you couldn't stop. I couldn't leave people in trouble, especially children. I have children, too. I also carried a teacher who taught my youngest daughter. All in all, I carried about 30 people in my arms," the man recalls his deed.

The saviour is sure that he did not perform any feat. But the news and photos of the hero instantly went viral on social networks. People in the comments admired the stranger's deed and thanked him for his help.

"I have been living and working in Novosibirsk since 2010. This is already my second homeland here. At first, my family was here too, but then my wife and daughters returned to Azerbaijan. They also saw these photos from the accident on the Internet, and my daughters wrote: "Daddy, you are a hero". This is the most important and valuable thing for me," Rza Rzayev shared details.
On 21 January the member states of the Andean Community (CAN)  Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia  approved a joint security plan in response to the dramatic crime wave that has engulfed Ecuador.

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Are you interested in food, United States history, and the English language? If so, American cookbooks provide wide information in all three subjects. The first, published in 1796, started a market that continues in the 21st century with online publications of such works. And, the literature offers more than just recipes.

Megan Elias is the director of food studies at Boston University and the writer of Food on the Page: Cookbooks and American Culture. She says that cookbooks do help teach us how to prepare food. But they provide more than that, too.

The concept of meals, how many meals a day that people expect to eat? What do they expect to have in those meals? Elias said.

They also inform readers about discoveries, equipment and technology related to food making.

Elias said, What are the objects that are necessary to make the things and what exists? So, are you being asked to do something over an open fire or are you being asked to use an electric stove? Is it something that can be done in the microwave? If you see a lot of recipes for things that are preserved for pickles, you know that you are looking at a time without refrigeration.

Amy Bentley is a food historian at New York University. She said that cookbooks from the 1800s were used as lifestyle and household guides. They include food recipes, but they were not central to the books back then.

So, there's some recipes for food, but it could be recipes for a cleaning solvent or what to do when your child has been poisoned, how to clean, how to get stains out, Bentley said.

American Cookery by Amelia Simmons is the first cookbook published in the United States. Simmons wrote that her goal with the book was to improve the new generation of women in the U.S.

Megan Elias says that after the Civil War, cookbooks became more diverse. Writers started exploring local foods and customs in their work.

Elias said that Southern cookbooks tried to offer  a beautiful version of the old South that will kind of heal over the wounds of the Civil War rather than dealing with the problems that caused the Civil War to begin with.

Some communities would put together a group cookbook to raise money. These cookbooks provide a look into what the American middle class was eating throughout the years. Such works serve as a record of the traditions and interests of different neighborhoods and groups.

Throughout the years cookbooks have signified humanitys growth in knowledge, trends and innovations. During the last part of the 19th century, for example, many recipes were informed by the dangers of food containing bacteria. Then, in the 1930s, refrigerators became common objects in American homes. The threat of bacterial infection from food dropped, and very soon, cooks adapted to the new conditions. New recipes and new cookbooks resulted.

But cookbooks are not complete reflections of American life. Elias said publishing companies mostly control cookbook content. And, their main goal is to make money from book sales.

The publishing world doesn't necessarily have the goal of representing the truth of Americans who made it. It tends to be upper middle class, white, Northeastern.

In the 21st century, with the growth of social media and food websites, publishing companies have less control. These new ways to share recipes have led to more open discussions about food and cooking. This gives the public more choices and power.

Elias praised the new discussions around food.

If you look at the comments on food blogs and on any kind of recipe site, you really get to see what people are cooking, and what they think of how they're cooking, and how they think of themselves as experts.

Physical cookbooks are still highly desirable as well, Bentley says. They're very good to give as gifts. They're very, very popular because they're sort of neutral. And everyone loves a cookbook, especially with beautiful pages, she said.

Im Faith Pirlo.

Dora Mekouar reported this story for VOA News. Faith Pirlo adapted it for VOA Learning English.

________________________________________________

Words in This Story

literature  n. written works that are considered to be very good and to have lasting importance

recipe  n. a set of instructions for cooking a specific food, including a list of the ingredients required

concept  n. an idea of what something is or how it works

microwave  n. an oven that uses very short wave of electromagnetic energy to cook food

preserved  adj. to describe something kept in its original state or in good condition

solvent  n. a liquid used for breaking down other substances

stain  n. a mark made on a surface or a piece of clothing that is very hard or impossible to remove

reflect  v. to mirror or show an aspect of something

innovation  n. the act or process of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods

neutral  adj. not having positive, negative, or other characterizations based on a person's likes or dislikes.

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The American space agency NASA is preparing to test a new supersonic airplane that could help establish a new generation of superfast aircraft.

The new aircraft is called X-59, and it was built in partnership with American defense contractor Lockheed Martin. The experimental plane is part of a NASA project, or mission, called Quesst.

The mission aims to collect data in the United States on the level of noise produced by supersonic travel. Supersonic describes a vehicle that travels faster than the speed of sound: about 1,235 kilometers an hour.

The data Quesst gathers could lead U.S. officials to change rules that currently ban supersonic flights over land. NASA says the X-59 was developed to reduce the loudness of the sonic boom it produces when breaking the sound barrier to very low levels heard on the ground.

A few U.S. companies are exploring ways to restart supersonic passenger travel for the first time since 2003. That is the year the Concorde aircraft stopped flying. The Concorde was the worlds first supersonic passenger jet. It was operated jointly by Britain and France.

The Concorde flew at speeds more than twice the speed of sound, British Airways explained. This meant it could travel from London to New York in about three-and-a-half hours. The same flight took about eight hours with normal passenger jets.

The new supersonic planes being developed make less noise and use less fuel than the Concorde. But manufacturers are under pressure from environmental groups and airports to meet the same noise and carbon emission limits as traditional planes.

NASA and Lockheed Martin recently showed off the X-59 plane during an event in Palmdale, California.

At the ceremony, NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy called the development of the supersonic aircraft a major accomplishment. She noted that members of the NASA and Lockheed Martin teams had worked hard to take the X-59 from an idea to reality in just a few years.

Melroy added her hope that the X-59 will help change the way we travel, bringing us closer together in much less time.

The aircraft measures 30 meters long and nine meters wide. NASA said in a press release that the X-59 is expected to fly at 1.4 times the speed of sound, or about 1,500 kilometers per hour. The aircrafts design, shape and technologies will permit it to reach high speeds while producing a quieter sonic thump, the agency explained.

The X-59 has not yet completed a test flight. But NASA officials have said they expect that to happen sometime this year. The team will be carrying out other tests in the coming months, including instrument experiments, fast engine runs and ground testing.

Once the aircraft has been cleared to fly, it will be deployed to several cities across the U.S. to collect data on the sounds the plane produces and how people on the ground react to the noise.

The data will be provided to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and international flight regulators. The information will help regulators decide whether to change existing laws restricting supersonic flight.

NASA said one of the biggest differences between the X-59 and other supersonic planes is that it has a thinner, smaller nose. The nose, which was reduced by about one-third, aims to break up shock waves that results in more intense sonic booms.

The Quesst team also designed the aircraft with its engine mounted on top and gave it a smooth underside in an effort to reduce shock waves near the back of the plane, NASA said.

Another American company developing supersonic aircraft is Boom Supersonic in Colorado. The company first showed off its experimental supersonic plane, the XB-1, in October 2020. Boom has been carrying out tests of the aircraft since then.

The company says on its website that its development and testing activities during the past few years have centered on ground tests, including a series of taxi runs. In 2024, Boom said it plans to begin its high-speed taxi testing early in the year, while preparing for an actual flight test that could happen later in the year.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from NASA, Lockheed Martin and Boom Supersonic.

Quiz - NASA Prepares for First Flight of Its New Supersonic Jet Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

_____________________________________________

Words in This Story

sonic boom  n. an explosive sound made by an aircraft, bullet, etc. made when something travels faster than the speed of sound

accomplishment  n. success in doing something good

thump  n. a noise produced by a strike, fall, etc.

regulate  v. to control an activity or process using rules, often established by governments
Officials have ordered restrictions on shipping traffic in the Panama Canal because of reduced water levels.

The latest restrictions limit ship crossings through the canal by 36 percent. The Panama Canal is one of the worlds busiest waterways, linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Canal officials have estimated reduced water levels could cost them between $500 million and $700 in 2024, The Associated Press reports. The losses are linked to tolls shipping companies must pay to pass through the Panama Canal.

The Central American nation is experiencing drought, or extremely dry weather. The climate condition can slow traffic and reduce safety in the 80-kilometer canal.

Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vasquez said the new restrictions reduce daily ship crossings to 24. The latest cut followed additional reductions last year. There were 38 crossings a day in normal times last year.

Vasquez told the AP, "It's vital that the country sends a message that we're going to take this on and find a solution to this water problem." He added that in the first quarter of the fiscal year, the waterway saw a 20 percent reduction in goods and 791 fewer ships than during the same period the year before.

Vasquez said the reductions were part of necessary control measures to make sure water levels remain high enough to permit at least 24 ships to pass daily. Officials are hoping the situation will improve in April, when the new rainy season starts.

Weather experts blame the drought on climate change and the weather system called El Nino. El Nino is a warming of surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific Ocean. This event usually causes hot, dry weather in Asia and Australia and can drive weather changes in other parts of the world.

Vasquez warned that Panama must seek new water sources for both the canal's operations and drinking water. The same lakes that fill the canal also produce water for more than half of the countrys 4 million people.

The water problem is a national problem, not just of the canal, Vasquez said. We have to address this issue across the entire country.

However, Vasquez told Reuters news agency he expects the waterway to meet its latest earnings targets, in part because of recent increases in tolls.

Im Bryan Lynn.

The Associated Press and Reuters reported on this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the reports for VOA Learning English.

_______________________________________

Words in This Story

toll  n. money paid to authorities in exchange for using a road, bridge, waterway, etc.

vital  adj. completely necessary

fiscal year  n. a 12-month period used by businesses and governments for accounting and budgeting purposes

address  v. to deal with a situation or problem
Archeologists have found a group of lost cities in the Amazon rainforest. The cities were home to at least 10,000 farmers around 2,000 years ago.

Stephen Rostain first noticed the earthen mounds and buried roads in Ecuador more than twenty years ago. But at the time, I wasnt sure how it all fit together, said Rostain. He was one of the researchers who reported on the findings in the publication Science.

Recent mapping using laser technology revealed those locations to be part of a group of settlements and connecting roads. The settlements are in the forested areas near the Andes mountains.

It was a lost valley of cities, said Rostain, who directs investigations at Frances National Center for Scientific Research. Its incredible, he added.

The Upano people lived in the settlements between around 500 B.C. and 300 to 600 A.D. That was around the same time period as the Roman Empire in Europe, the researchers found.

Ancient people built on over 6,000 earthen mounds in an area surrounded by agricultural fields with drainage canals. The largest roads were 10 meters wide and went for 10 to 20 kilometers.

While it is difficult to estimate populations, the area was home to at least 10,000 people, and possibly about 15,000 or 30,000 at its highest point, said Antoine Dorison, a study co-writer. That is comparable to the estimated population of Roman-era London, then Britains largest city.

This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society, said Michael Heckenberger of the University of Florida. He was not involved in the study.

Jose Iriarte of the University of Exeter was also not involved in the study. He said it would have required a complex system of organized labor to build the roads and thousands of earthen mounds.

Iriarte said, The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didnt usually have stone available to build  they built with mud.

The Amazon is often thought of as a wild area with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is, he added.

Scientists have recently also found evidence of complex rainforest societies that came before European contact elsewhere in the Amazon, including in Bolivia and Brazil.

Theres always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live, said Rostain. Were just learning more about them.

Im John Russell.

Christina Larson reported on this story for the Associated Press. John Russell adapted it for VOA Learning English.

_____________________________________________

Words in This Story

mound  n. a small hill or pile of dirt or stones

incredible  adj. extremely good, great, or large; difficult to believe

drainage  n. the act or process of removing water or liquid from a place or thing

canal  n. a long narrow place that is filled with water and was created by people

complicated -- adj. hard to understand or explain
President Mikhail Gorbachev has made a statement on Soviet television explaining the Soviet crackdown on civil unrest in the republic of Azerbaijan.

Two days ago Soviet troops were ordered into the republic to try and end the undeclared conflict between Muslim Azeris and Christian Armenians, and put down a separatist insurrection by Azerbaijani nationalists.

Official reports say up to 60 people died when tanks rolled into the republics capital, Baku.

President Gorbachev, who is confronting his worst crisis since he became leader, said he had no choice but to order his troops in.

To our deepest regret people have died, the Soviet leader said in a live 12-minute address on TV.

Militant nationalist careerists refused to listen to the voice of reason.

Events took a particularly tragic turn in Baku. There were growing calls for seizure of power by force.

He said that he hoped the decision to send in the army would be understood and supported by all citizens of our country.

President Gorbachev also extended his deepest condolences to the relatives of the victims who died in the takeover.

The move comes after tension erupted recently at a nationalist rally in Soviet Transcaucasia.

In the ensuing pogroms in Baku, Armenian homes were set on fire and looted while many Armenians were killed or injured.

In the disputed Azerbaijani region of Nagorno-Karabakh, roads were blocked and trains were halted.

Azerbaijans President Elmira Kafarova said in a statement broadcast on Baku radio that her people would never forgive those responsible for the deaths.

Communist Party politician Boris Yeltsin also condemned the use of armed forces.

It is a mistake to dispatch troops and suppress ethnic problems by armed force, he added.

He warned that East European socialism had become corrupted because it was state socialism guarded by the military.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

President Gorbachevs decision to deploy the army in Azerbaijan as a warning to separatist movements failed to have an impact in some Soviet republics.

In January 1991 troops acted against pro-independence protesters in Lithuania and Latvia, killing about two dozen people.

Following a failed coup by Communist hardliners in August 1991 the USSR recognised the independence of the Baltic states, and other republics soon began moves to breakaway.

Azerbaijans independence in 1991 lifted the lid on a simmering ethnic conflict with the mainly Armenian populated enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, which declared itself an independent republic.

Full scale war broke out in 1992 between Azerbaijani, Armenian and ethnic Armenian forces  who now control Nagorno-Karabakh.

It is estimated that between 20,000 and 30,000 people lost their lives during five years of conflict, and that more than one million fled their homes.
A lawyer for a writer who says Donald Trump sexually abused her in the 1990s and then defamed her while president in 2019 said Saturday that the infamous Access Hollywood tape and two women who accused Trump of abuse will not be put before a New York jury considering defamation damages.

The revelation by attorney Roberta Kaplan, who represents advice columnist E. Jean Carroll, means that the Republican front-runner in this years presidential race could testify in Manhattan federal court as today, a day before the New Hampshire primary.

The jury is considering whether Trump owes more to Carroll than the $5 million awarded to her last spring by another jury that concluded Trump sexually abused but did not rape Carroll in the dressing room of a luxury Manhattan department store in spring 1996 and then defamed her in October 2022.

Trump attended the trial for two of its first three days, only skipping it on Thursday, when he attended the funeral of his mother-in-law in Florida.

Kaplan said yesterday [Macau time] in a letter to the judge that she would not show jurors the 2005 tape in which Trump is caught on a hot mic speaking disparagingly of women to keep the issues in the trial focused.

For the same reason, she said she wont call two other Trump accusers as witnesses: Natasha Stoynoff and Jessica Leeds.

Both women testified at the trial that ended last May. Leeds, a former stockbroker, said Trump abruptly groped her against her will on an airline flight in the 1970s, while Stoynoff, a writer, said Trump forcibly kissed her against her will while she was interviewing him for a 2005 article.

Kaplan noted that Trumps lawyers had said he is entitled to testify concerning the Access Hollywood tape and the allegations of Stoynoff and Leeds, though he would not be if they were not introduced into the case by Carrolls attorneys.

The judge in the case has instructed the jury that it must accept the findings of the jury last year and thus the evidence has focused almost exclusively on what harm has been caused to Carroll by Trumps continuous claims that he never attacked her and doesnt know her and that she is lying.

Trump, 77, has denied her claims in the last week during campaign stops, on social media and at a news conference. And he continues to assert that Carroll, 80, made false claims against him to sell the 2019 memoir in which she first revealed the allegations publicly and for political reasons.

The judge has severely limited what Trump can testify about if he takes the witness stand, and Carrols lawyers likely decided to limit the introduction of more evidence to prevent Trump from straying into subjects such as what he maintains are many false claims against him.

However, Kaplan said she does plan to show the jury statements Trump has made since her client finished testifying in the case on Thursday.

Kaplan said Trump said he plans to repeat his claims that he never attacked Carroll and doesnt know her a thousand times.

A lawyer for Trump did not return a request for comment on Kaplans letter. LARRY NEMEISTER, NEW YORK, MDT/AP
Taiwans top representative in Washington has a message for both the islands Chinese adversaries and its American friends: Dont worry that Taiwans new leader will worsen relations with Beijing and possibly draw the U.S. into a conflict.

Election winner Lai Ching-te plans to keep the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, Alexander Tah-Ray Yui told The Associated Press last week in his first interview with an international news organization since he arrived in the U.S. in December.

The Chinese government has called Lai a troublemaker who will push Taiwan toward independence. But Yui said Lai is willing to engage with Beijing, even as the island seeks to strengthen its unofficial ties with Washington for stability in the region.

We want the status quo. We want the way it is  neither unification, neither independence. The way it is is the way we want to live right now, said Yui, noting the stance is largely supported at home and will guide the new administration.

Yui spoke to the AP five days after Lai won the election with more than 40% of the vote in a three-way race. Lai will succeed Tsai Ing-wen when he is inaugurated in May.

His victory, which gives the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party an unprecedented third leadership term, was not welcomed by Beijing, which claims Taiwan as its own, to be taken by force if necessary.

Military action in the Taiwan Strait could draw in the United States, which is obligated under a 1979 law to provide Taiwan with sufficient military hardware and technology, which Beijing does not recognize.

Beijing refused to have any dialogue with Tsai because her party rejects Chinas claim of sovereignty over the island, and before the election had suggested to voters that they could be choosing between war and peace.

It remains unclear if Beijing will be willing to engage with Lai, who in the past described himself as a pragmatic worker of Taiwans independence.

Two days after Lai was elected, China wooed away Nauru, a small Pacific island nation, which has left Taiwan with only 12 countries around the world that recognize its statehood. However, China has not launched massive military exercises around the island, as it has in past times of increased tensions.

Yui said Lai intends to follow the same line as his predecessor but also to offer an olive branch to mainland China by saying that hes also willing to engage with mainland China.

At the same time, Taiwan will work with the U.S. to boost its defense and deepen economic and cultural ties, Yui said, calling relations with Washington one of the most important aspects in our [external] affairs.

The United States does not have a formal relationship with Taiwan, but it has stepped up its support in the past several years, angering China, which has urged the U.S. to exercise extreme prudence in handling Taiwan-related issues. President Xi Jinping told President Joe Biden that Taiwan is the most sensitive issue in U.S.-China relations.

Shortly after Taiwans election, Biden told reporters that his administration does not support Taiwans independence.

Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington-based think tank, said he expected tensions to remain largely the same under Lai.

Beijing will continue to develop its military capabilities and push the boundaries of military threats and economic coercion, he said. The U.S. will continue to assist Taiwan with its defensive preparedness and push Taiwan to move more assertively on the various elements needed for effective self-defense.

But Kennedy said Beijing may also open up some channels for the two sides to convey messages and reduce misunderstanding.

Yui said it is incumbent upon both Beijing and Taipei to keep the Taiwan Strait peaceful.

I have to stress, were not the aggressors. Were not the ones, you know, making waves in the Taiwan Strait, making things nervous and tense, he said, alluding to Beijings increased military activities near the island in the past several years.

Yui said Taiwan is determined to safeguard its homeland, noting that the island is increasing its defense budget and has extended the mandatory military service from four months to one year.

He said Beijings luring away of Nauru was an attempt to punish the Taiwanese people for choosing the leader they wanted and will only backfire.

They were just trying to find an appropriate time and excuse to slowly pluck all of our allies, Yui said. But, as a technological powerhouse and a democracy, Taiwan has become a common word in the international community and countries around the world have become more willing to engage with it, he said.

Yui, who met with Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson shortly before Taiwans election, said hes been encouraged by the support from both the Republicans and Democrats.

If you go to the U.S. Congress, your heart warms up because everywhere you go you meet friends, he said.

Sen. Ben Cardin, the Democratic chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, called Taiwan a key U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific and beyond and said he would be working closely with the newly elected leadership of Taiwan to deepen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties.

Yui, who was born to a diplomats family, attended high school in Panama and received both his bachelors and masters degrees from Texas A&M University. He previously served as Taiwans ambassador to Paraguay and as its vice foreign minister.

Before he came to Washington, Yui briefly served as Taiwans representative to the European Union and Belgium. Yui succeeded Hsiao Bi-Khim, who left the post in November to be Lais running mate. Hsiao, who is credited with deepening Taiwan-U.S. ties when heading the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States between 2020 and 2023, will be the next deputy leader. DIDI TANG, WASHINGTON, MDT/AP
Laman Ismayilova

The Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall has paid tribute to the victims of the January 20 tragedy.

The blessed memory of the martyrs was honoured with a minute of silence, Azernews reports.

At the concert, the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra performed Johannes Brahm's "A German Requiem", a large-scale work for chorus, orchestra, and soprano and baritone soloists.

Composed between 1865 and 1868, the music piece comprises seven movements, which together last 65 to 80 minutes, making this work Brahms's longest composition.

The State Symphony Orchestra performed at the concert under the baton of the Honored Artist Fuad Ibrahimov.

The concert soloists were Honored Artist Anton Ferstandt (baritone) and laureate of republican and international competitions Fatima Jafarzade (soprano).

Thirty-four years pass since the 20 January tragedy, which is the symbol of the struggle for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the Azerbaijani people.

On the night of January 19, 1990, the Soviet army opened massive fires from all available weapons at civil protesters in Baku, who were calling for an end to the negative developments in Karabakh.

As a result of the crime, 147 people were killed, 800 people were wounded and five people went missing. Hundreds of buildings were destroyed and citizens suffered huge material losses along with psychological trauma.

Photo Credits: Kamran Bagirov
A recent survey from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) on Business Climate found that Restaurants and Similar Establishments as well as Retail stores increased their business significantly at the end of 2023.

The report, related to November last year, noted that this business sector had reported an average increase in their receipts of 38.5% year-on-year.

Thriving way above the average were the Western Restaurants and Chinese Restaurants surging 74.7% and 52.5% respectively, while on the other hand, Japanese and Korean restaurants dropped 22.1%.

Although the figures of the Restaurants represented a very positive increase y-o-y as compared to 2022, a year in which Covid-19 restrictions were still in force, they represent a drop (-7.2%) when compared to the previous month (October 2023) when the National Day holidays helped to account for the higher month of the year for business owners.

When compared month-on-month, November registered a decrease in receipts, with receipts of Chinese Restaurants and Western Restaurants falling 9.7% and 5.5% respectively.

The prospering seen y-on-y was even more accentuated in the retail sector which scored in November 2023 an average rise of 45.7% y-o-y.

In this case, the DSEC said that all types of interviewed retailers registered a y-o-y increase in sales, with particularly significant growth in the sales in the sub-sector of Watches, Clocks & Jewellery (+78.2%), Department Stores (+73.9%), Cosmetics & Sanitary Articles Retailers (+65.8%) and Leather Goods Retailers (+58.4%).

But, like the restauranteurs, shop owners saw November drop when compared to October. On average this drop was of 12%, DSEC said, with the retailers of Watches, Clocks and Jewellery and Adults Clothing reporting a sales drop of 17.2% and 12.3% respectively.

The only sub-sector that reported growth was the one related to Motor Vehicle Retailers, posting a month-on-month hike of 30.4% in sales.

Most of those interviewed in the restaurant business (42%) also said they expected their receipts would increase with the December Christmas season, while some 14% presented an opposite forecast.

For retail trade, half of the interviewed retailers forecasted a month-on-month sales rise in December, with the ones selling Leather Goods (80%), Department Stores (67%), and Cosmetics and Sanitary Articles Retailers (64%), being the most optimistic.

In contrast, approximately 15% of the interviewed retailers expected a month-on-month sales drop in December, leading this group were the Motor Vehicle Retailers and Supermarkets.

The sample of the Business Climate Survey on Restaurants and Similar Establishments and Retail Trade comprises 229 restaurants and 161 retailers, which accounted for 53.5% and 70.6% of the respective industrys receipts in 2019.

The Survey results were not extrapolated. As a panel sample of establishments is used in this Survey, the changes in receipts in the reference month as compared to the month of comparison serve as reference indicators of the business performance of the sectors.
Cognac producer Hennessy held a dinner at the City of Dreams to welcome the imminent Year of the Dragon in the Lunar calendar and unveiled a new bottle designed by artist Yang Yongliang.

In honor of the dragon, the most symbolic and vital animal of the Chinese zodiac, Yang combined traditional drawings with striking digital art which breathe life, movement, energy and fire into a collective of metallic dragons dancing in and out of waves, the brand said.

The unique artwork has incredible attention to detail, with a three-dimensional element which brings out even the texture of the dragons skin and teeth. Hennessy explained that each bottle features a color which embodies the aspirations of the new year; red for joy and luck and gold for prosperity.

Born in 1980 in Old Town Jiading, Shanghai, Yang has studied Chinese painting since childhood. Having graduated from Shanghai Institute of Design of the China Academy of Art, he currently lives and works in New York and Shanghai.

The decorated bottles are available in three different versions. Also available for purchase is an exquisite and rare collectable decanter in a beautiful oak giftbox.

(Readers are reminded that the legal drinking age in Macau is 18 years.)
US 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. Department of the Treasury met with counterparts in the Peoples 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 from the Treasury Department over the weekend (Macau time).

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 Chinas President Xi Jinping.

The two sides in November had agreed to resume cooperation on issues such as curbing fentanyls 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 President Donald Trump launched a trade war, setting high taxes on a number of Chinese goods. MDT/AP
A new draft bill amending the Road Traffic Law proposes, among other things, to ban pedestrians use of mobile phones as well as other electronic equipment such as photo and video cameras while crossing the streets and roads of Macau.

The bill has been introduced at the Legislative Assembly (AL) for discussion.

Under the bills Article 72, Number 6, pedestrians are prohibited from using mobile phones, other telecommunications devices or photo or video camera equipment when crossing the road. Offenders could be fined MOP300 (the same amount as fines imposed on those who cross roads except in designated sections and times).

The use of mobile phones and other communication devices will only be permitted in instances where users are using a hands-free system, like when driving vehicles.

Although the government did not explain the reasons for the new law, it might be to tackle the recent trend, practiced mostly by tourists but also by some locals, of photo-taking in public streets and roads.

Harsher fines (MOP900) are proposed for cases where pedestrians disobey road signage that forbids pedestrian traffic in locations such as bridges, tunnels and overpasses.

New rules for wheelchairs and mobility scooters

The new bill contains provisions affecting wheelchairs and mobility scooters when these are used on the street or at a road crossing.

The bill prohibits people who do not have mobility impairments from using any mobility assistance devices such as motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

It provides that such equipment can only carry one person and should be operated without putting other street-users at risk.

Balance bikes, skateboards and scooters (recreational vehicles consisting of a footboard mounted on two or three wheels with a long steering handle), whether foot-propelled or electric, are prohibited from being used on public roads. Offenders could face a MOP600 fine.

Higher speeding and DUI fines

The new bill also proposes to increase the penalties for several behaviors related to driving such as speeding and driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

The fines will be increased to a minimum of MOP1,500 for all these offences with those being considered re-offenders paying double the amounts.

Less importance seems to have been attributed to wrong-way driving which, although being a very dangerous conduct, is targeted with a minimum fine of MOP1,000.

The AL has not yet scheduled a date for the first reading of the bill.
North Korea said yesterday 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 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 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 yesterday, 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. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP
Japan landed a spacecraft on the moon Saturday, an attempt at the worlds first pinpoint lunar landing. The milestone puts Japan in a club previously occupied by only the United States, the Soviet Union, India and China.

A raft of countries and companies are also plotting moon missions. Success means international scientific and diplomatic accolades and potential domestic political gains. Failure means a very expensive, and public, embarrassment.

NASA plans to send astronauts to fly around the moon next year, and to land there in 2026.

Just this week, however, a U.S. company, Astrobotic Technology, said its lunar lander will soon burn up in Earths atmosphere after a failed moonshot.

The lander, named Peregrine, developed a fuel leak that forced Astrobotic to abandon its attempt to make the first U.S. lunar landing in more than 50 years. The company suspects a stuck valve caused a tank to rupture.

NASA is working to commercialize lunar deliveries by private businesses while the U.S. government tries to get astronauts back to the moon.

For now, the United States ability to spend large sums and marshal supply chains give it an advantage over China and other moon rivals. Private sector players such as SpaceX and Blue

Last year, India became the first country to land a spacecraft near the moons south pole, where scientists believe that perpetually darkened craters may hold frozen water that could aid future missions.

In 2019, a software glitch caused an Indian lander to crash on its lunar descent. So the $75 million success in August brought widespread jubilation, with people cheering in the streets and declaring Indias rise as a scientific superpower.

Indian scientists said that the next step is a manned lunar mission.

China landed on the moon in 2013, and last year launched a three-person crew for its orbiting space station. It hopes to put astronauts on the moon before the end of the decade.

In 2020, a Chinese capsule returned to Earth from the moon with the first fresh lunar rock samples in more than 40 years. Chinas first manned space mission in 2003 made it the third country after the USSR and the United States to put a person into space.

Chinas space ambitions are linked to its rivalry with the United States as the worlds two largest economies compete for diplomatic, political and military influence in Asia and beyond.

China built its own space station after it was excluded from the International Space Station, in part because of U.S. objections over the Chinese space programs intimate ties to the military.

China and the United States are also considering plans for permanent crewed bases on the moon. That has raised questions about competition and cooperation on the lunar surface.

Also last year, Russias Luna-25 failed in its attempt to land in the same area of the moon that India reached.

It came 47 years after the Soviets landed on the moon, and Russian scientists blamed that long break, and the accompanying loss of space expertise, for the recent failure.

The Soviets launched the first satellite in space in 1957 and put the first human in space in 1961, but Russias program has struggled since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union amid widespread corruption.

Russias failures and the growing role of private companies like Elon Musks SpaceX have cost Russia its once-sizable niche in the lucrative global space launch market.

Just as Indias success was seen as evidence of its rise to great power status, Russias failure has been portrayed by some as casting doubt on its global influence and strength.

[Abridged]
Timeless Gastronomy, a joint venture between MICHELIN Guide and SJM Resorts, S.A., held last Saturday evening, at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau, was a landmark in culinary history, a press release from the organizers states.

This exclusive event showcased the talents of four globally acclaimed chefs, each presenting their signature dishes.

According to SJM, the evening began with an appetizer platter featuring Chef Julien Tongourians Imperial French Caviar and King Crab in a Surprise Box, a homage to Chef Robuchon.

Chef Sven Wassmers Beetroot Rose and Chef Hideaki Matsuos Sea Urchin dish highlighted their respective culinary heritages.

Chef Heinz Beck amazed with a health-focused Tartlet with Veal and Black Elderberry. Chef Becks Marinated Amberjack on Celeriac and Chef Matsuos Lobster soup exemplified culinary innovation.

Chef Wassmers Knopfli Swiss Dumpling with Truffle represented his Alpine roots : with a modern twist. The evening culminated with Chef Tongourians Wagyu Beef Chateaubriand and a stunning dessert.

This event, set in the UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Macau, celebrated time-honored culinary arts, leaving an indelible mark on all attendees, the statement notes.
The Palestinian death toll from the war between Israel and Hamas has soared past 25,000, the Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip said yesterday, 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.

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 yesterday. 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. NAJIB JOBAIN & SAMY MAGDY, RAFAH, MDT/AP
Indian firm Tata Steel announced over the weekend it will close both blast furnaces at its plant in Port Talbot, Wales, eliminating 2,800 jobs, as part of plans to make its unprofitable U.K. operation leaner and greener.

Tata plans to switch from coal-fired blast furnaces to an electric arc furnace, which emits less carbon  and needs fewer workers  using a half-billion pound ($634 million) investment from the British government.

The company said the switch would reverse more than a decade of losses and transition from the legacy blast furnaces to a more sustainable, green steel business.

The course we are putting forward is difficult, but we believe it is the right one, Tata Steel Chief Executive T.V. Narendran said.

The company said it expects about 2,800 jobs will be eliminated  2,500 of them in the next 18 months, with a further 300 at longer-term risk. Both blast furnaces are due to be shut this year, with the new electric furnace installed by 2027.

The news is a major blow to Port Talbot, a town of about 35,000 people whose economy has been built on the steel industry since the early 1900s.

Unions have called for one blast furnace to remain open while the electric one is built, which would have meant fewer job cuts. They say Tata rejected their proposal.

The Unite union said it would use everything in its armory to fight job losses, including potential strikes.

At its height in the 1960s, the Port Talbot steelworks employed around 20,000 people, before cheaper offerings from China and other countries hit production. More than 300,000 people worked in Britains steel industry in 1971; by 2021 it was about 26,000.

The steel industry now accounts for 0.1% of the British economy and 2.4% of the countrys greenhouse gas emissions, according to research by the House of Commons Library.

Tata warned in 2022 that its U.K. operations were under threat unless it secured government funding to help it move to less carbon-intensive electric arc furnaces.

Last year the U.K. government gave Tata up to 500 million pounds ($634 million) to make the Port Talbot steelworks greener. Tata says it is investing a further 750 million pounds ($950 million) in the project.

The company said switching to the electric furnace, which produces steel from scrap metal, would secure most of (the plants) capability in terms of end products while cutting its carbon emissions by about 85%.

The British government said the investment would transform the site and protect thousands of jobs  both in Port Talbot and throughout the supply chain. It said the move to electric furnaces would secure a sustainable and competitive future for the U.K. steel sector.

The GMB and Community unions, which both represent workers at Port Talbot, said its unbelievable any government would give a company 500 million pounds to throw 3,000 workers on the scrapheap.

The announcement is the latest blow to the economy in Wales, a former industrial heartland whose mines and mills have largely shut since the 1980s.

Opposition politicians criticized Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks Conservative government, saying it failed to stand up for British industry.

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, a member of the Labour Party-led Welsh government, said todays news is a cause of real grief and upset as well as anger from the community here.

Its a devastating blow for this community  not just the steel workers who have been told about the extraordinary level of job loss, but the wider community, he said. Its not a community that has a significant amount of well paid employment around it to replace the scale of the job losses that have been proposed.

Even the Green Party in Wales criticized Tatas decision, despite its environmental benefits.

Wales knows only too well what happens when communities are abandoned by government and industries, said its leader, Anthony Slaughter. We saw it with the coal industry and now it is happening again with the steel industry.

Decarbonization of industry is vital, but communities and peoples jobs must be protected, he said. JILL LAWLESS, LONDON, MDT/AP
Commending Macau as a key market and partner, the mayor of a city in Japans Kagoshima Prefecture has announced the area is seeking further business opportunities with larger enterprises in Macau.

Speaking on the sidelines of a retail event held yesterday at New Yaohan that revolved around produce from Satsuma Country in Japan, Ryoji Tanaka, mayor of Satsumasendai City and chairman of the Satsuma Country Wide-Area Export Promotion Council, said that on a commercial level, his area is seeking opportunities wherein caterers in Macau will source produce from the Satsuma Country.

Satsuma Country comprises three cities in Japan: Satsumasendai, Hioki and Akune.

Having now visited Macau three times, Tanaka said some other mayors as well as the representative of Kagoshima Prefecture in Hong Kong were also in Macau for the occasion.

To explore business opportunities, the delegation visited locations in Macau, mainly for regaining familiarity with the city after years of pandemic restrictions.

Given the nature of this visit, the mayor was asked how produce from his area stands out from other quality products from Japan.

Expressing his gratitude for the positive words used to describe Japanese products, the mayor said Kagoshima Prefecture is dubbed Japans food storage and beef from Satsuma won the Japan Wagyu Olympics last year, highlighting its quality and surpassing that of other regions in Japan.

In addition, the mayor said the regions sweet potatoes also possess a very delicate quality and are popular. The produce is even used to make associated products, such as noodles and Shochu, which are also very popular.

A fair that features more than 40 products from the Japanese region is being held at the supermarket at New Yaohan Department Store from now until Tuesday. The range of specialty products includes processed foods, seafood, seasonings, sake, water, tea leaves and confectionery sourced from Satsuma Country.
SLB (formerly Schlumberger), one of the world's largest offshore drilling contractors, has announced that it had secured several major contracts across GCC in 2023.

Announcing its key project wins, SLB said in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it had clinched the contract from Italian builder Saipem to deploy high-pressure shallow-water subsea Grove top entry ball valves, Ring-O swing check valves, and Ledeen actuators in Qatif, Marjan, Abu Safah and Safaniyah fields.

As part of this, the valves and actuators will be installed in shallow-water subsea lines that are critical for permanent downhole monitoring.

In Kuwait, SLB had been awarded a contract by the Kuwait Drilling Company (KDC) for deployment of the DrillPlan coherent well design and engineering solution on Delfi as the planning environment for its directional drilling services.

The DrillPlan solution enables KDC to produce better drilling plans quickly and efficiently by using AI, machine learning, and the high-performance computing environment on the cloud, said the statement from SLB.

It also snapped up a major order from Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) through its subsidiary SLB Innovation Factori for development and deployment of AI and machine learning-based drilling, production and subsurface workflows for its multiple assets utilising Dataikus AI platform and SLB Petrel subsurface software and Techlog wellbore software.

SLB and KOC worked together to develop a novel process to automate mud loss analysis and forecast potential losses and their severity in planned wells, using machine learning.

This predictive capability reduces nonproductive time and mitigates associated costs for well control, including rig expenses, lost circulation material, and cement plugs.

In the UAE, SLB clinched a CCS consultancy project from Sharjah National Oil Corporation for injection of CO2 and other gases into mature onshore Sharjah gas fields.

As per the deal, SLB will leverage its storage site evaluation solution, which incorporates measurement, monitoring, and verification planning, and apply SLB technical expertise and experience in reservoir management and subsurface technologies to evaluate capacity, injectivity, and containment.

The project will assess the carbon storage potential for reliability, economics, and sustainability and provide consultation on the injection and monitoring strategy.-TradeArabia News Service
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced an essential initiative, the Employee Retention Credit Voluntary Disclosure Program (ERC-VDP), aimed at supporting companies in ensuring compliance with the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) guidelines. This program, unveiled on December 21, 2023, is a critical opportunity for employers who may have mistakenly claimed or received ERC refunds without eligibility.

Overview of the ERC-VDP

The ERC-VDP allows participants to repay ERC at a reduced rate of 80%, significantly alleviating financial burdens. Remarkably, the program includes a waiver of penalties and interest on the entire amount, not just the repaid 80%. This initiative is part of the IRS's ongoing efforts to address dubious ERC claims and ensure fair tax practices. The deadline for applications is March 22, 2024.

Eligibility and Participation

Eligible taxpayers include those who have claimed ERC and received refunds or credits against employment taxes. However, certain conditions render taxpayers ineligible, such as ongoing criminal investigations or previous IRS notifications regarding noncompliance. The program is also accessible to employers who use third-party payers, like professional employer organizations, to claim ERC.

Key Terms and Benefits

Participants in the ERC-VDP will need to sign a closing agreement acknowledging their ineligibility for ERC for the relevant tax periods. They will repay 80% of the claimed ERC, and the IRS offers the possibility of installment arrangements for this repayment. Participants are relieved from paying overpayment interest on issued ERC refunds and underpayment interest if the amount is fully paid before the closing agreement execution.

For many taxpayers, the ERC also impacted income tax obligations. The program stipulates that participants need only file amended returns to adjust wage deductions if they had previously reduced their wage deduction by the claimed ERC amount.

Application Process and Deadline

Applications for the ERC-VDP must be submitted using Form 15434 through the IRS Document Upload Tool by March 22, 2024. This form must be completed and signed under penalties of perjury. The IRS encourages the balance payment via the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to expedite case resolution. Still, installment agreements are available for those who need more time to pay in full.

Checking ERC Refund Status

Applicants can check their ERC refund status and seek assistance with the ERC-VDP process by contacting the designated hotline. This service supports completing the application form and updates on application status.

Concluding Note

The IRS emphasizes that participation in the ERC-VDP does not prevent future investigations into criminal conduct. This program represents a proactive step by the IRS to rectify unintentional noncompliance while offering a structured and supportive path for businesses to align with tax regulations. By participating in the ERC-VDP, companies can effectively manage their financial obligations, ensure compliance, and maintain integrity in their tax dealings.

This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this paid post belong solely to the advertiser and do not represent the views of Brand Ave. Studios or its parent company.

This provided content was produced by Lee Enterprises. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display.
Dane County Executive Joe Parisi has endorsed state Sen. Melissa Agards bid to be his successor, an early win as the Madison Democrat looks to an election still 10 months away.

The key endorsement from the person Agard hopes to replace as the countys top official comes as Agard, the former Democratic minority leader in the State Senate, continues to consolidate support from other elected officials. That list includes former County Executive Kathleen Falk, whom Parisi succeeded in 2011.

Melissa has the background needed for this position, Parisi said on Monday. She gets what it takes to navigate challenging environments with a steady hand.

Agard is opposed in the county executive race by Madison Ald. Regina Vidaver, 5th District.

Vidaver, for her part, has received endorsements from former Fitchburg City Council member Gabriella Gerhardt and former state Assembly candidate Jessica Katzenmeyer, Vidaver said on Monday.

The race would have an Aug. 13 primary if another candidate files. The top two vote-getters then face off in the general election on Nov. 5.

Parisi will retire in May. An interim county executive will be appointed by the Dane County Board chair at that time.

Today in history: Jan. 22 1939: Thornton Wilder 1944: Anzio, Italy 1973: Roe V. Wade 1997: Madeleine Albright 1998: Theodore Kaczynski 2006: Kobe Bryant 2008: Heath Ledger 2009: Barack Obama 2012: Joe Paterno 2020: Wuhan 2021: Hank Aaron 2023: Lunar New Year shooting
BRASILIA, Brazil  In recent weeks, lawmakers in the United States and the United Kingdom sent letters to the Securities and Exchange Commission cautioning against the listing of JBS, the world's largest meatpacking company, on the New York Stock Exchange.

Trading on the world's largest exchange would give JBS access to more capital and enhance its credibility. But the lawmakers, along with environmental groups, argue that expanded capital would allow the company, responsible for much of the deforestation in the Amazon rainforest, to do even more harm.

The dispute surrounding JBS' bid highlights the connection between finance and various drivers of climate change, including deforestation. It also raises questions about gauging claims that a company is committed to improving its environmental record.

Many companies listed on the New York and other stock exchanges have had, or still have, questionable environmental records. But often they have been listed for decades, having gone public when there was much less scrutiny of ecological impacts from business operations.

"Dozens of journalistic and NGO reports have shown that JBS is linked to more destruction of forests and other ecosystems than any other company in Brazil," said the letter from 15 U.S. senators. "The company has made repeated claims that it will eliminate deforestation but has not taken meaningful steps to do so."

The letter, signed by Democrats and Republicans, comes days after a similar one from 11 British lawmakers that said letting JBS raise capital from shareholders "contradicts global efforts of governments and businesses to take action to mitigate climate change" and to "preserve essential natural habitats."

A spokesperson for the SEC, which has regulatory oversight of the NYSE, said it doesn't comment on individual filings. JBS, which applied in July, and the NYSE didn't respond to questions. The SEC has broad authority in regulating capital markets, from approving or denying company applications to get on an exchange, requiring disclosures and fining companies if they break financial laws.

Two-thirds of Amazon deforestation results from conversion to pasture for livestock, according to the Brazilian government. JBS, with the largest slaughter capacity in the region, buys thousands of cows raised illegally annually, according to audits by federal prosecutors.

In December, The Associated Press and Brazil's Agencia Publica revealed that Rondonia state is suing JBS for purchasing cattle raised illegally in a protected area damaged to the point of near total destruction. According to court papers, the company accepted documents that showed cattle going straight to the slaughterhouse from legally protected land. JBS declined to comment.

JBS pledged to make all cattle purchases traceable by 2025 and to reach net zero, or equalize all carbon emissions, by 2040.

In 2020, it created the JBS Fund For the Amazon. The goal is to finance "innovative, long-term initiatives that build on JBS S.A.'s legacy of conservation and sustainable development in the Amazon Biome," according to an SEC filing.

Since then, the fund has provided $15 million to 20 projects, according to its website. The company pledged to commit a total of $51 million to the fund through next year.

The initiatives include cocoa farming integrated with trees; managed fishing of pirarucu, a giant freshwater fish; and support for the Forest Peoples Connection, which has been installing Starlink internet units donated by Elon Musk's SpaceX in remote areas, including Indigenous communities.

It also granted money to two U.S.-based nonprofits: Forest Trends, which supports handicrafts and Brazil nut production in Indigenous territories, and the Good Food Institute, which works to research local products from Amazon fungi to tucuma, a local palm tree.

The contributions are tiny for the company. From 2021 through the last quarter of 2023, JBS net sales approached $209 billion, according to a company statement. That means the amount disbursed for environmental projects so far represents 0.007% of net sales for the period.

The U.S. is JBS' largest market, with 51% of sales, followed by 27% in Brazil, where it employs about 270,000 people.

A previous JBS attempt to join the exchange was thwarted amid a corruption scandal in 2017 when the company admitted the bribery of hundreds of Brazilian politicians. In 2020, JBS paid the SEC $26.8 million for accounting irregularities at U.S. subsidiary Pilgrim's Pride, one of the country's largest poultry producers.

Glenn Hurowitz, CEO of Mighty Earth, one of the groups pushing for the SEC to deny the application, said it's too big of a risk.

"If JBS gains access to billions of dollars to expand its industrial meat operations, it would bring more deforestation, more market manipulation, more human rights abuses and more outsized climate pollution," he said. "The SEC should not allow this IPO to proceed."

Photos: New approach to preserving the Amazon
Police have made an arrest in a gunshot death Thursday night in La Crosse.

Alan R. Fry, 41, of La Crosse is being held in the La Crosse County Jail without bail for first-degree intentional homicide, possession of a firearm by a felon and bail jumping.

Frys initial court appearance was held over to Monday. Court-appointed attorney Thomas Rhodes said Fry was either unable or unwilling to appear Friday. Rhodes told the court he had yet to speak with his client.

Police responded around 9 p.m. to the 1200 block of Farnam Street and discovered a fatal gunshot victim. As police were conducting the death investigation, a fire was reported at an unoccupied residence in the 1600 block of Denton Street.

Police believe the gunshot death and fire are related. Both remain under investigation. The name of the victim hasnt been released.

Fry has a pending domestic abuse case in which he is charged with misdemeanor counts of battery and disorderly conduct. Court records list his address as 1642 Denton St. He was free on a $750 signature bond and has plea hearing set for Feb. 21.

Anyone with information on the incidents is asked to contact the La Crosse Police Department at 608-782-7575. Anonymous tips can be left with La Crosse Area Crime Stoppers at 608-784-8477 or online at lacrossecrimestoppers.com.
WAUKESHA  Vice President Kamala Harris blasted Republicans as extremists for trying to ban abortions as she rallied women in the key battleground state of Wisconsin on Monday, marking the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade by leading Democrats charge for restoring reproductive rights.

She singled out Donald Trump, who is tightening his grip on the Republican presidential nomination, for saying he was proud of helping to limit abortions. Trump nominated three conservative justices to the U.S. Supreme Court during his term in office, paving the way for the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Proud that women across our nation are suffering? Harris said. Proud that women have been robbed of a fundamental freedom? Proud that doctors could be thrown in prison for caring for their patients? That young women today have fewer rights than their mothers and grandmothers?

How dare he? she added.

The barrage reflects the White Houses intense focus on abortion rights during this years presidential campaign. Back in Washington, Biden convened a meeting of his reproductive health care access task force to discuss threats to emergency care and new steps for implementing executive orders on the subject.

The Democratic president described Roe v. Wade as a fundamental right that had been ripped away.

Biden, Harris, first lady Jill Biden and second gentleman Doug Emhoff are holding another rally focused on abortion in Virginia on Tuesday. In addition, Harris trip to Wisconsin is the first stop in a nationwide tour to talk about reproductive rights.

In her speech on Monday, Harris described abortion as an integral part of the countrys tradition of personal liberty.

In America, freedom is not to be given. It is not to be bestowed. It is ours by right, she said. And that includes the freedom to make decisions about ones own body  not the government telling you what to do.

Harris shared stories of women who have miscarried in toilets or developed sepsis because they were denied help by doctors concerned about violating abortion restrictions.

This is, in fact, a health care crisis, she said. And there is nothing about this that is hypothetical.

Wisconsin faces an ongoing legal battle over abortion. When Roe v. Wade was overturned, Republicans argued that an 1849 law that was still on the books would effectively ban the procedure except in situations where a mothers life was at risk.

These extremists want to roll back the clock to a time before women were treated as full citizens, Harris said.

Clinics across the state stopped offering abortions until a court ruled the law did not apply to abortions. Republicans have appealed the decision, and the case will likely be decided by the state Supreme Court. Theyre also pushing for a voter referendum that would ban abortions after 14 weeks, holding a hearing on the proposal on Monday.

The White House is pushing against the limits of its ability to ensure access to abortion without new legislation from Congress, where control is split between Democrats and Republicans.

On Monday, the Biden administration announced it was creating a team dedicated to helping hospitals comply with the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, which requires hospitals receiving federal money to provide lifesaving treatment when a patient is at risk of dying.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it would beef up training at hospitals around the law and publish new information on how to lodge a complaint against a hospital.

Some advocacy groups have criticized HHS as not responding aggressively enough to such complaints. Last week, the Associated Press reported that federal officials did not find any violation of the law when an Oklahoma hospital instructed a 26-year-old woman to wait in a parking lot until her condition worsened to qualify for an abortion of her nonviable pregnancy.

Leading the fight

The White House has repeatedly turned to Harris, the first woman to serve as vice president, to make its case on abortion. Her outspokenness contrasts with Bidens more reticent approach. Although he is a longtime supporter of abortion rights, he mentions it less often and sometimes avoids using the word abortion even when he discusses the issue.

I think the real star from a messaging standpoint is the vice president, said Mini Timmaraju, head of Reproductive Freedom for All, the activist organization formerly known as the National Abortion Rights Action League. Look, Joe Biden picked Kamala Harris. Joe Biden has asked Kamala Harris to lead on this issue. This is going to set us up for a great contrast with the other side.

While Harris and Democrats have embraced abortion as a campaign issue, Republicans are shying away or calling for a truce, fearful of sparking more backlash from voters.

Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor who is running for the Republican presidential nomination, recently made a plea to find consensus on the divisive issue.

As much as Im pro-life, I dont judge anyone for being pro-choice, and I dont want them to judge me for being pro-life, she said during a primary debate in November.

Trump has taken credit for helping to overturn Roe v. Wade, but he has balked at laws like Floridas ban on abortions after six weeks, which was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, another Republican candidate who dropped out of the race over the weekend.

You have to win elections, Trump said during a recent Fox News town hall.

Vice presidents are rarely decisive figures in reelection campaigns. However, Harris has faced additional scrutiny because of Bidens age  he would be 82 at the start of a second term  and her status as the first woman, Black person and person of South Asian descent to serve in her position.

Abortion has reshaped Harris tenure as vice president after earlier struggles when dealing with intractable issues like migration from Central America.

Jamal Simmons, a former communications director for Harris, said abortion focused her attention and her office in a way that nothing had before.

Focusing on abortion rights tapped into the vice presidents legal background, her political values and her substantive knowledge in a way that I saw no other issue do while I was there, he said.

Seeing an opportunity

Harris appearance in Waukesha also highlighted Democrats focus on making gains in the suburban counties surrounding Milwaukee. That strategy has especially focused on suburban women, who often tend to be fiscally conservative but socially liberal.

In 2010, Republican Gov. Scott Walker won over 71% of the vote in Waukesha County, Wisconsins third-most populous county. In 2012, Republicans won 67% of the Waukesha County presidential vote.

By 2016, with Trump on the ballot, Republicans won 60% of the Waukesha County vote. In 2020, Trump got 59.7%.

With the abortion issue especially, the math in the presidential race appears to be on Democrats side.

Across every age group, sex and income bracket, Wisconsinites prefer Biden to Trump on abortion politics, a Marquette poll released last November found. Independents also preferred Biden to Trump on abortion politics by a 41%-to-30% margin.

Wisconsinites across every age group, sex, income bracket and education level opposed overturning Roe, the same poll found. It also found that 23% of Republicans and 60% of independents opposed overturning Roe.

State Journal reporter Alexander Shur contributed to this report.

7 political cartoons implicate the Iowa caucuses
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Now several Democratic-leaning groups are proposing maps that will be much more favorable to Democrats. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, has called those new maps a "political gerrymander." (Of course the old maps were so partisan that anything remotely fair would benefit Democrats and harm Republicans).
One way or another, grizzly bears are expected to begin fully returning to the Bitterroot Ecosystem within the next decade.

An advocacy groups report released this month estimates natural grizzly emigration from northern Montana to the Bitterroot will result in a breeding population forming in the next several years. Simultaneously, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it is once again evaluating restoration options for grizzly bear populations in the Bitterroot 31 years after the area was identified as a recovery zone.

The Bitterroot Ecosystem is one of six recovery zones in the contiguous U.S. for grizzly bears. While individual grizzlies have been increasingly documented there in recent years, no established population  defined as having two or more breeding females or one female with two consecutive litters  exists.

Through January to March 18, FWS is seeking public comment on an environmental impact statement (EIS) to better assess impacts and approaches like artificial reintroduction. The statement will address management approaches for bear-human conflicts, consider grizzly bear connectivity between recovery zones and analyze restoration plans (including a no-action possibility).

Grizzly bears were placed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 1975 after hunting and loss of habitat brought them to near extinction. Today, they occupy roughly 6% of their original range, according to the Center for Biological Diversity.

In Montana, grizzly bear populations are present in three ecosystems including the Cabinet-Yaak in the states northwestern corner, the Northern Continental Divide surrounding Glacier National Park and the Greater Yellowstone Area surrounding Yellowstone National Park.

The independent report published this month by Flathead-Lolo-Bitterroot Citizen Task Force and WildEarth Guardians estimates the grizzly population from the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem will move roughly six miles into the Bitterroot Ecosystem within five years. After 15 years, grizzly bears will move 18 to 25 miles into the forest to occupy more of the area.

The Bitterroot Ecosystem was part of the grizzly bears historical range prior to extirpation from the area. The area was identified as a recovery zone in 1993 for being a habitat large enough and of sufficient quality to support a recovered grizzly population.

Grizzly bear recovery requires large blocks of relatively undisturbed land and remote areas away from human disturbance, background for the environmental impact statement states. Due to its large wilderness areas, the BE offers favorable conditions to restore a healthy population of grizzly bears and to improve the long-term survival and recovery of grizzly bears in the lower-48 States.

The report recommends against moving grizzly bears by trucks or other human-assisted means to the Bitterroot Ecosystem, as reoccupation of the area appears already under way with observed sightings.

Natural immigration is a viable strategy which must be considered and fully analyzed in the upcoming EIS, the report states. We believe that the law and the science direct that the Bitterroot Ecosystem grizzly bear recovery strategy be based on natural immigration facilitated by protected habitat connectivity areas and with the full protection of the Endangered Species Act.

The report recommends several passage structures to be constructed across I-90 and U.S. Highway 93 transportation corridors including the northern Bitterroot Valley, the Six Mile/Nine Mile, and the Bonner-Clinton Areas to better stimulate immigration to the area.

This isnt the first time a plan for grizzly bear reintroduction has been considered.

In 2000, FWS released a plan to reintroduce grizzly bears with management guided by recommendations from a citizen management committee. Grizzly bears were planned to be reintroduced as a nonessential, experimental population, which would remove certain legal protections afforded by the Endangered Species Act.

The year after, FWS issued a proposal to instead take no action on reestablishing a grizzly population as planned. That proposal was never finalized. Nonetheless, action was never taken on reintroducing grizzlies to the Bitterroot or in forming the citizen management committee.

In 2021, the Alliance for the Wild Rockies and Native Ecosystems Council sued, alleging FWS failed to comply in a timely manner with their 2000 plans. And in March 2023, a federal district court judge ruled in favor of the environmental groups, finding the agency unnecessarily delayed actions in implementing the plan and ordered it to supplement the environmental impact statement or to issue new rules.

As a result of increasing grizzly bear observations in the area and new science over the past couple decades, FWS chose to work on a new EIS to take a fresh look at a strategy for supporting grizzly bear restoration in the Bitterroot ecosystem.

The EIS and related decision documents are planned to be finalized by November 2026.
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United Nations Special Rapporteur (UNSR) on Freedom of Opinion and Expression Irene Khan arrived in Manila for a 12-day visit on the invitation of the Philippine government.

Khan landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 onboard flight MH806 from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia around 12:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed confidence that her visit would be an opportunity for her to appreciate the well-rooted and flourishing democracy of the Philippines, as the oldest democratic Republic in Asia, as seen in [its] vibrant media landscape and civic space.

Khan earlier voiced concerns on the freedom of the press in the Philippines.

In a statement, the DFA stressed the Philippine government is confident that through dialogues and meetings, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, Khan would see for herself the transparency and progressive agenda of the government relating to the promotion of free speech.

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This visit signifies the open, sustained, and sincere cooperation of the Philippine government with bilateral and regional partners and the UN, on many fronts, where the country promotes its human rights-based development agenda and good governance as well as its contributions in strengthening global norms to uphold human rights and dignity, the DFA said.

Khan serves as UNSR on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression since August 1, 2020. She is the first woman to hold this position since the establishment of the mandate in 1993.

An internationally recognized advocate for human rights, gender equality and social justice, Khan taught at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland. She is also co-author of The Unheard Truth: Poverty and Human Rights, which has been published in seven languages.

She also served as Secretary General of Amnesty International from 2001 to 2009. Under her leadership, Amnesty strengthened its work on political and civil rights, especially in the context of counter-terrorism and armed conflicts, while also expanding its mandate to include economic, social and cultural rights. The first woman to head Amnesty International, she launched its first global campaign to stop violence against women and girls.

From 2012 to 2019, Khan headed the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), the only intergovernmental organization exclusively devoted to the rule of law and sustainable development. In that capacity, she co-convened the UN Conference in Preparation of the Review of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 in 2019, the High-Level Group on Justice for Women in 2018 and the Conference on Rule of Law in Africa in 2016. She expanded programs on access to justice and championed SDG 16 on peace, justice, access to information and effective institutions.

As Consulting Editor of The Daily Star in Bangladesh from 2010 to 2011, Khan covered human rights, democracy and gender issues and supported independent media. She was visiting professor at the State University of New York Law School in 2011 and Chancellor of Salford University in the UK from 2009 to 2015.

She began her professional career with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, working for 21 years at headquarters and in various country operations, including Chief of Mission in India and Deputy Director, Division of International Protection.

The UNSR collaborates with the Columbia Global Freedom of Expression program, including as a member of the Jury of the Global Freedom of Expression Awards. She was a member of the World Bank Gender Advisory Council, the UNAIDS High Level Panel on HIV Prevention and Human Rights, and the UN Global Compact Advisory Council. She also sits on the governing boards of the Overseas Development Institute (UK), BRAC (Bangladesh) and Barefoot Law (Uganda).

She is also a recipient of several awards, including the Sydney Peace Prize in 2006, for her contribution to human rights. Born in Bangladesh, she studied at Manchester University and Harvard Law School.

Khan will be the fourth UNSR to visit the Philippines, following SR for the sale and exploitation of children Fatimah Singhateh in November 2022, and SR for climate change and human rights Ian Fry in November 2023. SR for extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary executions Morris Tidball-Binz visited the country in February 2023 for an academic visit.  With Joel Zurbano
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THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated drastic reforms in the Bureau of Immigration (BI) detention facility made necessary by their experience with Japanese crime ring leaders who orchestrated criminal activities in Japan while under detention in the Philippines.

We have pinpointed the weaknesses in the system of Immigration detention, Jesus Crispin Remulla said in an interview with Kyodo News.

Remulla admitted that the government has learned lessons from the case, in which four leaders of the crime ring orchestrated crimes in Japan in 2021 and 2022 while inside the Immigration detention center.

Kiyoto Imamura, who according to Japanese police used the pseudonym Luffy and his three cohorts planned and executed the crimes in Japan even as they were jailed by Philippine Immigration authorities.

Remulla gave assurance that such incidents will not happen anymore.

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Remulla disclosed that following the deportation of Imamura and three others to Japan in February last year, the DOJ strictly regulated the detainees access to such communication tools as smartphones at the detention facility.

The DOJ also transferred or dismissed some guards at the facility and has implemented regular shuffles of personnel.

Remulla said he intends to make a surprise visit to the facility to check the situation there.

It became very apparent when this case came because the jail facility was treated seemingly like a kingdom of jailers, that they seem to earn money from everything that people were doing inside. So we have to put a stop to that, the Justice Secretary said.

With the four Japanese men having sought to avoid deportation by requesting lawyers in the Philippines to file trumped-up domestic charges, Remulla also warned that the lawyers involved in such underhanded schemes could face disbarment, he said.

The main Immigration detention facility had 17 Japanese detainees at the beginning of 2023 before the deportation of the four men, and the number decreased to 12, the DOJ said.

The total number of detainees at the facility currently stands at over 270, more than twice its capacity, and the majority are nationals of China and South Korea, Remulla said.

Remulla emphasized that the Philippines improved coordination with the governments of China, South Korea and other countries whose citizens are detained in the Philippines for their swifter expulsion.

The Japanese crime ring is suspected of being involved in a total of over 50 cases of robbery, theft and other crimes across 14 prefectures in Japan. The four ringleaders were indicted for some of the cases in December last year.
The UAE government has launched the Global TradeTech Sandbox, as part of the TradeTech Initiative, in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), and the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The TradeTech Sandbox aims to spark innovation in trade technology and establish best practices for its global adoption.

It will achieve this by implementing flexible and forward-looking regulatory frameworks that unlock the potential of these technologies. By streamlining the interaction between exporters, logistics companies, ports, regulators, and customs officials, it will create a smoother and more efficient trade environment.

This came through a memorandum of understanding signed during the WEF in the presence of Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Klaus Martin Schwab, the WEF Founder and Executive Chairman, reported Wam.

The MoU was signed by Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Ahmed Al Jasim Al Zaabi, the Chairman of ADDED, and Sean Doherty, Head, International Trade and Investment, and Member of the WEF Executive Committee at the 54th Annual Meeting of the WEF in Davos, Switzerland.

Al Zeyoudi said: The adoption of advanced technologies is accelerating in various sectors, and it is important that international trade keeps pace with these developments now more than ever. We need to re-evaluate the current regulatory frameworks in order to keep pace with the digital transformation and address the future.

"Global TradeTech Sandbox is designed to keep pace with technological developments in all fields, to provide means for start-ups to access markets. It also provides a platform through which forward-looking regulatory policies can be adopted that adapt to the future, enhance innovation, protect stakeholders, and ensure the flexibility of global trade systems," he added.

The minister called on innovators in the field of global trade technology to visit the UAE and benefit from its business environment to develop, refine, and disseminate their innovations that would stimulate the growth of global trade and increase its contribution to achieving comprehensive development around the world, in line with the aspirations of the world for the 21st century.

Al Zaabi pointed out that this partnership and other influential partnerships on the international scene showcased the UAE's commitment to spearheading solutions for the rise of automation in logistics, demonstrating proactive leadership and paving the way for a more efficient and equitable global trade system.

"This initiative embodies the imperative for collaborative efforts in shaping a better future for all. By adopting bold policies and fostering international partnerships, the UAE is setting a powerful example for proactive leadership in the face of a changing global economy," he added.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday said the Filipina who was arrested in Tokyo last week insisted she was not involved in the killing of two Japanese nationals found in a house in Japans capital.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega did not disclose the identity of the Filipina, but Japanese media Kyodo News earlier reported that Hazel Anne Morales was arrested in Tokyos Adachi Ward for supposedly

abandoning the dead bodies.

Contrary to some reports and posts on social media, De Vega said the Filipina suspect maintains that she has nothing to do with the crime.

The ambassador reported to me . . . The consul general told me that the Filipina suspect continues to deny involvement. So, [she] denies involvement, De Vega said in an interview with ABS-CBN.

DFA and the embassy only use official sources, and we dont have sources that say she confessed. And I was talking to his mother earlier and she said she didnt admit anything, he added.

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The 30-year-old Filipina is a permanent resident of Japan who is separated from her husband, a Japanese national.

The dead couple is her new partners parents, De Vega said.

Not a wife, but she has a boyfriend. It is a family issue but it doesnt mean that he killed them. Because there might be a money issue between the son and the parents. Well, I dont want to speculate further, he said.

Currently the Filipina is under pre-indictment detention at the Senju Metropolitan Police Station and no formal charges have been filed yet against her.



The Japanese system in the preliminary investigation, meaning before a formal charge is given, we will show you the evidence. Thats how it is. What they want is a shortcut to confess if the evidence is there.

Find a way to get a lower charge, the DFA official said.

If the Filipina will be charged and eventually convicted in the minor charge of abandonment, jail time will only be up to three years, De Vega said.

If there is no evidence [she will be released]., but if there is evidence of abandonment, well, she needs to face the charges. But thats not a long prison term, thats not a long criminal sentence thats not 10 or 20 years, its not like that, he explained.

As of posting time, the DFA has not yet established a direct communication to the Filipina suspect, but is working to have access to her as soon as possible.

We have no consular access yet. I talked to her mother here in the Philippines, and we assured them that we will give legal assistance.

But as I said earlier, we will have an opportunity because they will be given consular access to visit the pre-indictment, De Vega said.

If a private lawyer is needed, especially if the case is big, we will provide legal assistance at the expense of the government, he added.

De Vega appealed to the public to stop from sharing fake news on social media as this can affect the resolution of the case.

The rumors on Tiktok that she confessed, that she killed, lets not release them because we know that she is not admitting anything. If we release that and then the Japanese authorities monitor it, that wont

help her, he said.
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GENEVA, SwitzerlandMoscow will be asked to explain at the UN on Monday what has happened to thousands of Ukrainian children believed to have been forcibly sent to Russia since its 2022 invasion.

The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child  18 independent experts  is set to examine Russias record over two days, as part of a regular review.

Their lengthy list of concerns was sent to Moscow in the first half of 2023.

They want to know how many children have been evacuated to Russia or within Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine.

They also want to know what Moscow has done to protect the right of such children to preserve their identity, including nationality, name and family relations.

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Kyiv estimates 20,000 Ukrainian children have been forcibly deported to Russia.

Moscow says it wants to protect these children from the fighting. Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Only around 400 children have so far been repatriated.

Placements for evacuated children are arranged, first and foremost, at their request and with their consent, Russia said in a written response sent in October and shown to media by the UN on Friday.

It does not specify the total number of children affected, but said they included children from national residential institutions for orphans and children without parental care (about 2,000 in total) and children with Ukrainian citizenship.

It also said that between April 1, 2022 and June 31, 2023, some 46,886 Ukrainian children acquired Russian citizenship.

Kateryna Rashevska, a legal expert with the Regional Center for Human Rights, a Ukrainian NGO, hopes the committee will call for an international legal mechanism to identify and return the children home.

Now, the process of returning Ukrainian children is only a very sporadic process, she told AFP.

At the current rate, we need another 90 years in order to repatriate only already-identified Ukrainian children, she said, urging the UN General Assembly in New York to adopt a resolution creating an international mechanism.

The international community is ready to do something but there is a need to do it faster, she said.

Other topics will be raised during the UN committees review of Russia, with a list of points spanning seven pages.

It wants to quiz the Russian delegation on what Moscow is doing to remove obstacles to children exercising their right to freedom of association and assembly, and to ensure that children are not punished for taking part in demonstrations, particularly against the war in Ukraine.

In a report sent to the UN committee, the NGO Human Rights Watch said it was concerned about childrens freedom of expression, their right to freedom of information and discrimination linked to gender identity and sexual orientation.

Inside Russia, theres a wide range of childrens rights issues that one could focus on, said Rachel Denber, deputy director of HRWs Europe and Central Asia division.

We only focused on three, she told AFP, to demonstrate how the broader crackdown on rights in Russia has an impact on childrens rights as well, noting how children had faced retaliation for voicing critical opinions on Russias war in Ukraine.

The UN committee also wants to discuss the illegal or arbitrary detention of children, corporal punishment, and measures taken to preserve the cultural and linguistic identity of indigenous children.

The experts also want to know what Moscow is doing to combat certain harmful practices in the North Caucasus, such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, abductions for forced marriages and polygamy.

The region faces specific challenges all exacerbated by weak legal systems and societal norms, said Grigor Avetisyan, who spent many years in Russia and is now with the Dutch NGO Stichting Russian Justice Initiative.

The entire region, like the rest of the country, is experiencing a general decline in human rights conditions, he told AFP.
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BRUSSELS, BelgiumThe EUs foreign policy chief on Monday insisted on an eventual two-state solution as he told Israel it couldnt build peace only by military means ahead of talks with Israeli and Palestinian top diplomats.

Josep Borrell repeated the condemnation from the United Nations of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus unacceptable rejection of calls for a Palestinian state after the war in Gaza.

What we want to do is to build a two-state solution. So lets talk about it, Borrell said.

He told Israel that peace and stability cannot be built only by military means.

Which are the other solutions they have in mind? To make all the Palestinians leave? To kill off them? Borrell said.

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The surprise Hamas attack on October 7 on Israel and the subsequent devastating military response from Israel has plunged the Middle East into fresh turmoil and sparked fears of a broader conflict.

But while the bloodshed appears to have driven a long-term solution further out of sight, EU officials insist now is the time to talk about finally resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The 27 EU ministers will first meet with Israels foreign minister Israel Katz, before sitting down separately with the Palestinian Authoritys top diplomat Riyad al-Maliki.

Katz and Maliki are not expected to meet each other.

The foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia will also hold talks with the European ministers.

The top EU diplomat said he had presented ministers from the bloc with a comprehensive approach towards trying to find a lasting peace including an international conference.

Borrell risked incurring Israels wrath by accusing it on Friday of having created and financed Hamas to undermine the prospect for a possible Palestinian state.

Borrell insisted the only way to get an enduring peace in the region was for a two-state solution to be imposed from outside.

The EU has struggled for a united stance on the conflict in Gaza as staunch backers of Israel such as Germany have rejected demands for an immediate ceasefire made by the likes of Spain and Ireland.

The reports we are receiving, even as late as last evening, are dire in respect to whats happening within Gaza, said Irelands foreign minister Micheal Martin.

EU officials have sketched out broad conditions for the day after the current war ends in Gaza, calling for no long-term Israeli occupation, an end to Hamas rule and a role for the Palestinian Authority in running the territory.

Hamas, the Islamist movement that controls the Gaza Strip, launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct 7, resulting in the death of about 1,140 people in Israel, most of them civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.

Militants also seized about 250 hostages during the attacks, around 132 of whom Israel says remain in Gaza.

Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas in response and its relentless air and ground offensive has killed at least 25,105 people, mostly women and children, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza.
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Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), in celebration of its 10th anniversary, has recently hosted festive events for its 14,000-strong employees.

For the first time in the leading consumer finance companys history, nationwide celebrations in various resorts and convention centers were organized for its employees, their families, and friends.

To ensure maximum enjoyment, over 6,700 employees from Metro Manila and nearby provinces were treated to a magical day at the Enchanted Kingdom. The theme park was closed for two days exclusively for the event. Employees were given two regular day-pass tickets, pocket money, a free souvenir photo, and a transportation subsidy. In addition, each employee was also allowed to bring up to 5 guests.

True to its commitment of No small roles. Everyone is important, the rest of the employees from HCPHs 30 local offices from 12 regions celebrated in nearby resorts and convention centers to enjoy various outdoor and water activities.

The Home Credit family has grown significantly since our first year of operation here in the Philippines. We started with 158 employees and have now reached an impressive number of 14,000 in just 10 years. With this expansion, stronger employee engagement is needed to ensure that our workforce is in their best mental and physical condition. We recognize the valuable role our employees play in the companys success. As a response, we provide them with opportunities to achieve personal victories and focus on other aspects of their lives, including their mental health. This work break, in celebration of our 10th anniversary, is just one of our projects to promote work-life balance, said Alpha Omega Aquino, HCPH Chief People Officer.

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To stay updated on the latest offerings and promotions from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see whats new in the Shopping Mall Philippines.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
The European Union (EU) on Thursday January 18 presented three new projects, funded to the tune of 900,000 euros, to strengthen Civil society, participation processes and public debates, good governance, and sustainable tourism in Sao Tome and Principe.

Each selected project will receive funding of 300,000 euros and will be implemented by Portuguese Non-Governmental Development Organizations (NGDOs) in partnership with Sao Tomean Civil society organizations.

The aim is to fund and strengthen civil society associations and networks of civil society associations in the processes of participation and public debate, governance at the local level, control, dialogue, and advocacy with national institutions, and to strengthen the intervention capacities of these civil society organizations, said the representative of the EU delegation, Sonia Chura.

The Association for Cooperation Among Peoples (ACEP), in partnership with the Federation of Non-Governmental Organizations of Sao Tome and Principe (FONG-STP), the Santomean Association of Women Lawyers, and the Association of Santomean Journalists, will develop the project Better Governance, More Rights, More Citizenship in the area of civic participation and the strengthening of civil society organizations (CSOs) and their networks.

This project, without giving a perfect answer to the situation, is a commitment to the essential priorities of the European Union; it is aligned with the goals and values of the European Union to promote solid governance, inalienable rights, and participatory citizenship, underlined the EU representative. Sonia Chura added that by committing to this project, the European Union hopes not only to improve the quality of governance but also to strengthen individual and collective rights, thus cultivating a fairer and more inclusive society in Sao Tome and Principe.
The Guinean Ministry of Education needs to hire around 3,000 teachers in the near future to fill the vacancy left by many teachers who have gone to continue their studies in Portugal, an official from the institution told media.

Moises da Silva, director-general of Human Resources at the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education and Scientific Research, said that if measures are not taken, there is a risk that the school year will be seriously compromised.

He noted that only last week 300 teachers received entry visas to Portugal, where they will study for a masters degree, leaving the Guinean education system, and a considerable number are still leaving due to illness.

We have information that more than a thousand teachers have study visas for Portugal, said Moises da Silva. Guinea-Bissau does not currently have any institutions offering Masters degree courses, which is why many teachers choose to seek this degree outside the country.

The Director General of Human Resources at the Ministry of Education noted that the situation is affecting students at all levels of education, particularly those in secondary education, in the subjects of mathematics and physics, those in higher education, but above all those in basic education.

The Pere Unified Basic Education School in Bissau lost 10 teachers in one week alone, who left the system. The students were left without classes, said Moises da Silva, fearing that those students would simply choose to stay at home.

The risk of dropping out of the school year could increase if the lack of teachers is not resolved by February, he said, noting that from March onwards, with the start of the cashew harvest season, it is normal for many students to stop going to school.
The National Bank of Angola (BNA) has announced that sanctions worth 1 billion kwanzas (1.1 million euros) will be imposed on banking and non-banking financial institutions in the last quarter of 2023.

Failure to comply with the rules on consumer protection for financial products and services led the infractions in this period, according to the BNAs summary of sanctions for October, November and December.

The Angolan central bank said that of the 34 sanctions concluded, 20 corresponded to summary proceedings and 14 to misdemeanor proceedings, of which 24 were related to banking financial institutions and the rest to non-banking institutions.

At the level of banking financial institutions, non-compliance with the rules on protecting consumers of financial products and services had the highest number of occurrences, with 16, according to the document drawn up by the BNAs Department for Regulation and Organization of the Financial System.

Non-compliance with the rules on combating and preventing money laundering and terrorist financing, the rules on charging commissions and the rules on special registration with the supervisory body were also other breaches in prudential matters.
Angola has asked the President-in-Office of ECCAS and President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, to intervene in the case of the invasion of the residence of the organizations president in Gabon.

A press release from the Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that the meeting between Minister Tete Antonio and President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo took place on Saturday January 20 in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

At the meeting, the Angolan minister appealed to Obiang to intercede with the Gabonese authorities about what had happened, calling on the authorities of that country to observe the principles of protecting and safeguarding the security and physical integrity of diplomatic entities accredited in that country, as set out in the different legal diplomas of international law, as well as continental, regional, and sub-regional organizations, the note reads.

Angola announced on Saturday that the home of the president of the Economic Community of Central African States (CEEAC), Gilberto Verissimo, of Angolan nationality, was robbed in Libreville and asked Gabon for explanations following this diplomatic incident.

Ambassador Gilberto da Piedade Verissimo had his residence invaded by armed men in uniform, of Gabonese nationality, on the morning of Wednesday, January 17, who psychologically harassed him while they searched the compartments of his residence, continues the Angolan Foreign Ministry.

The meeting between Tete Antonio and Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo lasted approximately 30 minutes and served as an opportunity for the head of Angolan diplomacy to express his deep indignation at the attack on the safety and physical integrity of Angolan ambassador Gilberto da Piedade Verissimo, who is carrying out his legitimate duties as president of CEEAC, based in Libreville, Republic of Gabon, the statement said.

Angola recalled the final communique of the Fifth Extraordinary Session of the Summit of Heads of State and Government of ECCAS, within the framework of the Council for Peace and Security in Africa, issued in December 2023 in Djibloho, Equatorial Guinea, which expressly urged the Government of the Gabonese Republic to continue to guarantee security conditions for the president, members, and all the staff of the Commission.
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Excitatory neurons in the prefrontal cortex are shown in a fluorescent shade. Credit: Nanyang Technological University

A team of scientists from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has demonstrated that communication among memory-coding neuronsnerve cells in the brain responsible for maintaining working memoryis disrupted with aging and this process can begin in middle age.

Findings from the study, which was published in Nature Communications, provide new insights into the aging process of the human mind and pave the way for therapies to maintain the mental well-being of an aging individual.

Scientists have long studied the impact of aging on the brain's executive functions, such as poorer self-control and working memory. While it is well established that memory can worsen as people age, it has not been clear what changes occur at the individual brain neuron level to cause thisuntil now.

Previous studies used nerve cells from dead subjects, but the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) team measured the real-time activity of individual nerve cells in live mice. To make these measurements, the team adopted a recently unveiled optical imaging technique that allowed them to understand the function of each neuron by measuring its neural activity in the context of working memory.

In lab experiments, the NTU scientists investigated how neurons in mice of three different age groupsyoung, middle age, and old ageresponded to tasks that required memory.

The researchers showed that compared to young mice, middle-aged and old mice required more training sessions to learn new tasks, indicating some decline in memory and learning abilities from middle age. But beyond that, they also found changes in the nerve cells of older mice.

Connections between neurons weaken with age

Using advanced optical techniques (calcium imaging and optogenetic manipulation) that allow researchers to observe multiple individual neurons and manipulate their activity, the NTU team discovered that neurons in one part of the brain, the prefrontal cortex, showed robust memory coding ability in young mice. However, this ability to hold memory diminishes in middle-aged and old mice due to weakening connections among the neurons, which causes the mice to take longer to recall and perform tasks.

While scientists know connections between neurons are crucial for storing memory, it has not previously been experimentally demonstrated in the live brain how aging brain cell changes cause weakening connections.

The findings thus suggest that strengthening the weakened connections between the nerve cells, such as through memory training activities, could help delay the deterioration of people's working memories as they age.

Lead investigator and Assistant Professor Tsukasa Kamigaki from NTU's LKCMedicine said, "Our study highlights a significant reduction in communication among neurons responsible for encoding memories in the prefrontal cortexa key factor in age-related working memory decline, which was a neurological process not widely understood until now.

"This discovery provides more evidence that proactive intervention can improve neuron communication. Examples of intervention include lifestyle changes such as cognitive training and regular exercise. These activities can potentially mitigate the impact of cognitive aging and enhance people's overall cognitive health as they age."

Memory decline can begin in middle age

Further experiments also showed that the weakening connections between the nerve cells led to instability of neural circuits in the prefrontal cortex from as early as middle age, resulting in poorer ability to hold memory.

The NTU team used optogenetic technologya method that uses genetically engineered light-sensitive ion channels in neurons that enables the control of neuronal activity through light stimulationto briefly turn off neurons in the brain for one to two seconds and found that the working memory circuits in middle-aged mice are particularly sensitive to the short interruptions in neural activity.

Co-first author and LKCMedicine Research Assistant Huee Ru Chong said, "Our four-year study shows that the ongoing function of the prefrontal circuits is critical for memory tasks. The fact that the brain circuits showed signs of degradation from middle age highlights the need for clinical strategies to safeguard our mental well-being as early as possible."

Co-first author and LKCMedicine Research Fellow Dr. Yadollah Ranjbar-Slamloo said, "We found that the prefrontal cortex in mice stays active when they remember things, like humans. The finding suggests that mice could be a good model for studying how memory works and its aging process. Our findings, therefore, indicate that just as in mice, our brain may start to degrade early on as we age."

LKCMedicine Associate Professor Nagaendran Kandiah, visiting senior consultant neurologist at Singapore's National University Hospital and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, who is not involved in the study, said, "In humans, the prefrontal cortex plays a key role in organization, retention, and retrieval of memory. The exciting findings from the NTU team provide insights into specific neural changes in the prefrontal cortex associated with aging. This new knowledge will be of huge clinical relevance in designing cognitive interventions to delay age-related memory decline."

Commenting as an independent expert, Dr. Jun Nishiyama, Assistant Professor in the Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders program at Duke-NUS Medical School said, "It is well-known that brain performance declines with aging, yet the underlying causes remained elusive.

"This groundbreaking study from NTU Singapore offers key neurological insights into age-related working memory decline, highlighting reduced neuronal communication in the mouse prefrontal cortex beginning from middle age. This research emphasizes the importance of early, strategic interventions to combat cognitive decline, providing a vital framework for future aging research and brain health maintenance."

The next steps for this project are to investigate more brain-wide neural changes that occur during middle age to understand how proactive interventions may enhance communication among different brain areas.

More information: Huee Ru Chong et al, Functional alterations of the prefrontal circuit underlying cognitive aging in mice, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43142-0 Journal information: Nature Communications
IBM, a leading provider of global hybrid cloud, AI and consulting expertise, has announced the inauguration of its regional headquarters in Riyadh.

The launch of the regional headquarters expands IBMs presence in the kingdom and reiterates the companys commitment to accelerating Saudi Arabias digital transformation. Since IBM established its presence in Saudi Arabia in 1947, the company has worked side-by-side with government and enterprise sectors in the kingdom on multiple projects of national and economic importance, while investing in talent development and defining the skills needed to support the countrys development agenda.

The Ministry of Investment hosted IBM executives on November 30, 2023, and presented the company with the regional headquarters licence. The meeting was attended by a range of dignitaries and government officials including Khalid Al-Falih, Saudi Arabias Minister of Investment; Arvind Krishna, IBMs Chairman and CEO.

Conducive business environment

IBMs decision to establish their regional headquarters in Riyadh is testament to Saudi Arabias success in developing a conducive business environment & ecosystem that complements our world-class ICT infrastructure. These investments are key to enabling innovators in the industry to thrive. By deepening the presence of leading executives, this sector will play an important role as we strengthen Saudi Arabias position as a leader in the global digital transition said Al-Falih.

Today, we are reinforcing our longstanding commitment to the kingdom as we inaugurate our regional headquarters in Riyadh, said Krishna. Transformative technologies like hybrid cloud and AI are instrumental in solving the most pressing challenges. IBM is helping clients in Saudi Arabia and around the globe reshape their business models and leverage these technologies to increase productivity and drive innovation.--TradeArabia News Service
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

When I was a child, my grandma was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had a radical mastectomy at 55, which back then meant removing all her muscle, skin, and breast tissuea disfiguring surgery that resulted in lingering pain, swelling, and complete loss of sensation in her chest.

Grandma couldn't feel a burn if she spilled hot coffee on her chest or the telling breeze if the collar of her blouse dipped too low. All she could sense was pressure, if I leaned against her too hard while sitting on her lap or giving her a hug.

Modern mastectomy and breast reconstruction have come leaps and bounds since then, but most approaches still result in full sensation loss in the nipple and breast due to nerve damage from stretching and cutting the breast tissue. Until now, that is.

Through a journey marked by curiosity, stubbornness, and a little luck, my plastic surgery colleague Nicholas Haddock, M.D., and I have developed a first-of-its-kind robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy (rNSM) and reconstruction procedure that provides remarkably natural-looking outcomes while preserving full breast sensation.

Rather than making incisions in the underwire area below the breasts, we use a single-port robot to enter the breast from the armpit to remove tissue and reconstruct the breast, avoiding the nerve damage that results in desensitization.

Against a backdrop of heavy scrutiny and some controversy, UT Southwestern supported our efforts to bring this advanced procedure to the U.S. and our patients in North Texasgiving them access to a leading-edge treatment that eliminates their cancer without some of the disheartening long-term side effects of mastectomy.

In January 2024, we published the results of a four-year study in JAMA Surgery showing that single port robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy is not only a safe and feasible approach to breast reconstruction, it also gives patients a very good chance of retaining some or all of the sensitivity in their breasts.

Making discoveries in the Sim Center

UT Southwestern is home to one of the largest and most sophisticated simulation centers in the country. It's where we train everyone from medical students to accomplished surgeons, and our Sim Center is particularly well-equipped for training on robot-assisted procedures.

Some breast surgeries, such as NSM, are difficult to teach in a simulation setting because the surgeon's field of vision is very limitedif you can't see the exact steps, it's challenging to explain.

This got me thinking. If I could take a page from the robotic surgery handbook and insert a small camera into the breast during surgery, perhaps I could help trainees better visualize the steps of the NSM procedure.

As it turns out, I wasn't the only surgeon thinking this way. Multiple sessions at the 2018 American College of Surgeons meeting revolved around next steps in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, which offer more precise visualization and smaller incisions. What I heard there reinforced the idea that had started marinating in my brain: If I could figure out a way to do robotic NSM, my teaching would improve, and potentially, so would my patients' outcomes.

So after the night's final session, I drank way too much coffee and stayed up until 3 a.m. writing an email outlining my vision for rNSM to Herbert Zeh III, M.D., Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at UT Southwestern.

Dr. Zeh, who is a pioneer in the field of robotic surgery, replied within five minutes to say that if I could figure it out, he would support my research. Coincidentally, our idea was born just as surgical watchdogs and the FDA were raising concerns around the safety of robotic breast surgery.

That put a big target on the back of growing rNSM, since it wasn't yet being done in the U.S. and hadn't been deeply studied internationally. But if we can't study new approaches at academic medical centers like UT Southwestern, how else can discoveries happen?

Undeterred, Dr. Haddock and I got Dr. Zeh's blessing and started making plans for a trip overseas to pursue more than a month of intensive training.

New approach, new robot

In 2018, only three centers in the world were doing robotic breast surgery: Hospitals in Paris, Milan, and Seoul. I reached out to surgeons at these hospitals, and Dr. Haddock and I were invited to Italy to observe the surgeon who, at the time, had done the most robotic mastectomies in the world.

The moment we saw the first procedure, we immediately understood why the FDA had issued their statement. Surgical robots that were widely available at the time had multiple ports and large, bulky arms designed for abdominal surgerynot a small, delicate area like the breast.

Learning rNSM was definitely going to be harder than we imagined. But we embraced the opportunity. After watching a few cases, we agreed that with some modifications, we could make this happen stateside.

As luck would have it, a single-port robot with four small arms designed for intricate cancer surgeries had just become available on the market, and UT Southwestern had invested in one for the Department of Urology. I was able to access to it to get credentialed, and eventually train to do the rNSM procedure.

The single-port robot makes it possible to maneuver the camera like a cobra, snaking and swiveling for a more encompassing view in a smaller space, which was ideal for rNSM.

After months of diligent practice, I earned my credentialing. The next step was to get permission to use it "off label" and study the effectiveness of rNSM. We applied to UT Southwestern's Institutional Review Board (IRB)an independent set of experts who observe new surgical proceduresto begin performing the procedure with real patients who fit the surgical criteria:

Breast cancer or a high risk of genetic breast cancer, such as BRCA1- or BRCA2-associated cancers

Smaller breasts with limited sagging, so we can properly align the nipple in reconstruction

The cancer cannot be near the nipple so we can preserve

No pre-existing breast implants

We received IRB approval in 2020 and began enrolling patients in our first clinical trial to study rNSM.

How the single-port rNSM procedure works

Robot-assisted procedures require two providersone at the bedside and one controlling the robot from a console across the operating room. For rNSM, I operated the robot while Dr. Zeh was at bedside, helping articulate the borders of the breast tissue. After several surgeries, he taught a physician assistant to serve in this role.

After I separate the breast tissue from the skin, I insert the narrow arm of the robot into the breast through an axillary incision in the armpit. Then I separate the breast tissue from the chest muscle to remove the tissue through the incision. Using the robot's flexible camera tip, I can assess the entire empty breast space for remaining tissue to remove it thoroughly. Approaching from the armpit and side of the breast also provides easy access to remove nearby lymph nodes.

Then Dr. Haddock places a tissue expander, which looks like an inflated mini-pillow, to start the reconstruction. For patients who want to use their own tissue for reconstruction, he can harvest a banana-shaped piece of tissue from where the buttocks meet the thighs (PAP flap), along with the blood vessel that supplies it. He then slides the tissue and vessel into the breast through the incision and curls it to fill the space.

UT Southwestern was the first hospital in the U.S. to perform a single-port robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy and PAP reconstruction.

Every patient retained breast sensation

Several cases into our initial study, we noticed a surprising trend. Every single one of the patients in the initial study had retained sensitivity in their breasts. Women were reporting "hyper-sensation" and full sexual function in follow-up, saying they could feel soft touch as well as pressure in the nipple and breast.

Dr. Haddock and I were floored. In a traditional mastectomy, the breast tissue and nerves are often stretched and potentially severed from the incisions and manipulation of the tissue. Even if the reconstructed breasts looked fantastic, patients would often feel as if their breasts were numb and detached, similar to how your legs feel after getting an epidural.

With rNSM, nerve disruption is somehow significantly reduced. Entering through the side is much gentler, and we suspect this is why our patients retained sensation. We started doing formal sensation measurements with each patient on follow up, and every one in the initial study maintained sensation.

We had achieved the original goals of the procedurebetter teaching visualization and more aesthetic outcomes. But we'd also fortuitously unlocked an achievement that surgeons have been trying to attain for a decade: eliminating breast cancer without reducing a woman's quality of life.

Patients began spreading the word, and people in the medical community got wind of our outcomesincluding the FDA, which in 2021 invited us to apply for an investigational device exemption (IDE). That would grant a formal license to hold a larger clinical trial, which we launched in January 2022, and the results to date have been outstanding. We have performed more than 60 rNSM procedures, and 88% of patients have retained sensation.

When I presented our outcomes data nationally the first time, many surgical oncologists were baffled that we could perform a thorough mastectomy through such a small incision. Surely, they said, we were leaving breast tissue behind. The anatomical visualization was too small, the instruments too tiny, the surgical incision too narrowthe naysayers went on and on. But we stood behind our oncologically valid surgery, our patients' experiences, and our data.

Dr. Zeh organized a robotic surgery symposium in 2022 and invited surgeons from around the U.S. to observe UT Southwestern's successful, yet controversial robot-assisted procedures: robotic Whipple for pancreatic cancer, robotic hepatectomy for liver cancer, and rNSM. Seeing is believing. Surgeons who observed us realized that rNSM is the same oncologic surgery they were used to, but with functional and aesthetic results.

The future of single-port rNSM

In the past, there was a ferocious approach to eradicating breast cancer at any cost to a patient's happiness and appearance. Today, our passion to save patients' lives remains undeterred but we are also able to focus on enhancing women's quality of life after treatment.

The next phases of our research will be to determine exactly why our procedure preserves sensation, how we can more precisely select lymph nodes for removal, and how we can broaden the surgical criteria to offer rNSM to more patients.

Though preserving sensation was not the original goal of rNSM, it has definitely become the most exciting outcome. We've welcomed patients from around the countryCalifornia, Minnesota, Floridato participate in our clinical study, which involves returning to UTSW for scans and sensation testing every six months after surgery. And a national clinical study is starting soon at multiple centers to study rNSM.

Radical mastectomy was all there was to offer when my grandmother battled breast cancer, and she died from what today is a highly curable disease. I think she'd be pleased to see the progress we are making, and glad that today's patients have more opportunities for a cure for breast cancer.

More information: Deborah E. Farr et al, Safety and Feasibility of Single-Port Robotic-Assisted Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy, JAMA Surgery (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2023.6999 Journal information: JAMA Surgery
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Credit: Miguel A. Padrinan from Pexels

With around 20,000 people dying of COVID in the United States since the start of October, and tens of thousands more abroad, the COVID pandemic clearly isn't over. However, the crisis response is, since the World Health Organization and the Biden administration ended their declared health emergencies last year.

Let's not confuse the terms "pandemic" and "emergency." As Abraar Karan, an infectious disease physician and researcher at Stanford University, said, "The pandemic is over until you are scrunched in bed, feeling terrible."

Pandemics are defined by neither time nor severity, but rather by large numbers of ongoing infections worldwide. Emergencies are acute and declared to trigger an urgent response. Ending the official emergency shifted the responsibility for curbing COVID from leaders to the public. In the United States, it meant, for example, that the government largely stopped covering the cost of COVID tests and vaccines.

But the virus is still infecting people; indeed, it is surging right now.

With changes in the nature of the pandemic and the response, KFF Health News spoke with doctors and researchers about how to best handle COVID, influenza, and other respiratory ailments spreading this season.

A holiday wave of sickness has ensued as expected. COVID infections have escalated nationwide in the past few weeks, with analyses of virus traces in wastewater suggesting infection rates as high as last year's. More than 73,000 people died of COVID in the U.S. in 2023, meaning the virus remains deadlier than car accidents and influenza. Still, compared with last year's seasonal surge, this winter's wave of COVID hospitalizations has been lower and death rates less than half.

"We're seeing outbreaks in homeless shelters and in nursing homes, but hospitals aren't overwhelmed like they have been in the past," said Salvador Sandoval, a doctor and health officer at the Merced County public health department in California. He attributes that welcome fact to vaccination, COVID treatments like Paxlovid, and a degree of immunity from prior infections.

While a new coronavirus variant, JN.1, has spread around the world, the current vaccines and COVID tests remain effective.

Other seasonal illnesses are surging, too, but rates are consistent with those of previous years. Between 9,400 and 28,000 people died from influenza from Oct. 1 to Jan. 6, estimates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and millions felt so ill from the flu that they sought medical care.

Cases of pneumoniaa serious condition marked by inflamed lungs that can be triggered by the flu, COVID, or other infectionsalso predictably rose as winter set in. Researchers are now less concerned about flare-ups of pneumonia in China, Denmark, and France in November and December, because they fit cyclical patterns of the pneumonia-causing bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae rather than outbreaks of a dangerous new bug.

Public health researchers recommend following the CDC guidance on getting the latest COVID and influenza vaccines to ward off hospitalization and death from the diseases and reduce chances of getting sick.

A recent review of studies that included 614,000 people found that those who received two COVID vaccines were also less likely to develop long COVID; often involving fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and joint pain, the condition is marked by the development or continuation of symptoms a few months after an infection and has been debilitating for millions of people.

Another analysis found that people who had three doses of COVID vaccines were much less likely to have long COVID than those who were unvaccinated. (A caveat, however, is that those with three doses might have taken additional measures to avoid infections than those who chose to go without.)

It's not too late for an influenza vaccine, either, said Helen Chu, a doctor and epidemiologist at the University of Washington in Seattle. Influenza continues to rise into the new year, especially in Southern states and California.

Last season's shot appeared to reduce adults' risk of visits to the emergency room and urgent care by almost half and hospitalization by more than a third. Meanwhile, another seasonal illness with a fresh set of vaccines released last year, respiratory syncytial virus, appears to be waning this month.

Another powerful way to prevent COVID, influenza, common colds, and other airborne infections is by wearing an N95 mask. Many researchers say they've returned to socializing without one but opt for the masks in crowded, indoor places when wearing one would not be particularly burdensome. Karan, for example, wears his favorite N95 masks on airplanes. And don't forget good, old-fashioned hand-washing, which helps prevent infections as well.

If you do all that and still feel sick? Researchers say they reach for rapid COVID tests. While they've never been perfect, they're often quite helpful in guiding a person's next steps.

When President Joe Biden declared the end of the public health emergency last year, many federally funded testing sites that sent samples to laboratories shut their doors. As a result, people now mainly turn to home COVID tests that signal an infection within 15 minutes and cost around $6 to $8 each at many pharmacies. The trick is to use these tests correctly by taking more than one when there's reason for concern.

They miss early infections more often than tests processed in a lab, because higher levels of the coronavirus are required for detectionand the virus takes time to multiply in the body. For this reason, Karan considers other information. "If I ran into someone who turned out to be sick, and then I get symptoms a few days later," he said, "the chance is high that I have whatever they had, even if a test is negative."

A negative result with a rapid test might mean simply that an infection hasn't progressed enough to be detected, that the test had expired, or that it was conducted wrong. To be sure the culprit behind symptoms like a sore throat isn't COVID, researchers suggest testing again in a day or two.

It often takes about three days after symptoms start for a test to register as positive, said Karan, adding that such time estimates are based on averages and that individuals may deviate from the norm.

If a person feels healthy and wants to know their status because they were around someone with COVID, Karan recommends testing two to four days after the exposure. To protect others during those uncertain days, the person can wear an N95 mask that blocks the spread of the virus.

If tests remain negative five days after an exposure and the person still feels fine, Chu said, they're unlikely to be infectedand, if they are, viral levels would be so low that they would be unlikely to pass the disease to others.

Positive tests, on the other hand, reliably flag an infection. In this case, people can ask a doctor whether they qualify for the antiviral drug Paxlovid. The pills work best when taken immediately after symptoms begin so that they slash levels of the virus before it damages the body. Some studies suggest the medicine reduces a person's risk of long COVID, too, but the evidence is mixed.

Another note on tests: Don't worry if they continue to turn out positive for longer than symptoms last; the virus may linger even if it's no longer replicating. After roughly a week since a positive test or symptoms, studies suggest, a person is unlikely to pass the virus to others.

If COVID is ruled out, Karan recommends tests for influenza because they can guide doctors on whether to prescribe an antiviral to fight itor if instead it's a bacterial infection, in which case antibiotics may be in order. (One new home test diagnoses COVID and influenza at the same time.) Whereas antivirals and antibiotics target the source of the ailment, over-the-counter medications may soothe congestion, coughs, fevers, and other symptoms.

That said, the FDA recently determined that a main ingredient in versions of Sudafed, NyQuil, and other decongestants, called phenylephrine, is ineffective.

Jobs complicate a personal approach to staying healthy. Emergency-era business closures have ended, and mandates on vaccination and wearing masks have receded across the country. Some managers take precautions to protect their staff. Chu, for example, keeps air-purifying devices around her lab, and she asks researchers to stay home when they feel sick and to test themselves for COVID before returning to work after a trip.

However, occupational safety experts note that many employees face risks they cannot control because decisions on if and how to protect against outbreaks, such as through ventilation, testing, and masking, are left to employers. Notably, people with low-wage and part-time jobsoccupations disproportionately held by people of colorare often least able to control their workplace environments.

Jessica Martinez, co-executive director of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, said the lack of national occupational standards around airborne disease protection represents a fatal flaw in the Biden administration's decision to relinquish its control of the pandemic.

"Every workplace needs to have a plan for reducing the threat of infectious disease," she said. "If you only focus on the individual, you fail workers."

2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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A dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is displayed at the Neighborcare Health clinics at Vashon Island High School in Vashon Island, Wash., on May 15, 2019. U.K. health officials are urging millions of parents to book their children in for missed measles, mumps and rubella shots amid a sharp increase in the number of measles cases and the lowest vaccination rates in a decade. The National Health Service is launching a publicity campaign after figures showed there have been 216 confirmed measles cases and 103 probable cases in parts of England since October. Credit: AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File

U.K. health officials on Monday urged millions of parents to book their children for missed measles, mumps and rubella shots during a sharp increase in the number of measles cases and the lowest vaccination rates in a decade.

The National Health Service is launching a publicity campaign after figures showed there were about 250 confirmed measles cases in parts of England last year. Most cases were in children under 10 years old.

The combined measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine is offered in the U.K. in two doses to all children, first at 12 months and then again at 3 years. Vaccination rates have dropped to about 85% nationally, and far lower in parts of London, according to U.K. Health Security Agency chief executive Jenny Harries.

That is "too low to maintain safe population coveragewe want that at about 95%" as advised by the World Health Organization, she said.

Public health officials say more than 3.4 million children under 16 years old are unprotected and at risk of catching the preventable diseases.

Measles was declared eliminated in the U.K. in 2017, meaning the disease was no longer native to the country.

But transmissions began again when epidemics broke out in the rest of Europe. Officials said outbreaks can take place anywhere where vaccine coverage is below the 95% needed to achieve herd immunity.

WHO and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in November that measles deaths globally spiked by more than 40% last year, and cases rose after vaccination levels dramatically dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Measles is among the most infectious diseases known and spreads in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It's most common in children under 5. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and a distinctive rash.

Infection can lead to permanent physical damage such as deafness. Most deaths are due to complications like encephalitis, severe dehydration, serious breathing problems and pneumonia.

Harries said there was "clearly misinformation" about vaccines and urged people to consult trusted sources.

Officials said intense media coverage in the late 1990s about the now discredited claim linking the MMR vaccine to autism led to a drop in vaccinations and took many years to recover from.

More recently, declines in vaccination uptake were exacerbated partly by the pandemic and anti-vaccine sentiment, said Helen Bedford, a professor of children's health at University College London.

"The pandemic, with new vaccines introduced and vaccination constantly discussed, may have resulted in the public having more questions about vaccination: its safety, effectiveness and, for a disease like measles which had become rare in the U.K., its necessity," she said. "Asking questions about vaccination is to be encouraged, but we need trained staff to do this."

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

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.

It's 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 McAlester's 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.

"There's a lot that's 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 hospital's 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 wasn't 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 state's death row. The downtown is pockmarked by empty storefronts, including the OKLA theater, which has been dark for decades. Nearly one in five residents in McAlester and the surrounding county live below the federal poverty line.

The hospital, operated by a public trust under the city's 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 auditor's website.

"I'm trying to find ways to get the entire community better care and more care," said Shawn Howard, the hospital's chief executive. Howard grew up in McAlester and proudly noted he started his career as a receptionist in the hospital's 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 she'd reserved for her children and grandchildren after the hospital sued her last year for more than $5,500. She'd 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. He'd gone to the emergency department for what turned out to be gastritis and didn't 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. "It's 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.

"It's 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 hospital's 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 didn't respond to an inquiry for interview.

Hackler declined to speak with KFF Health News after her recent court appearance. "I'm not going to visit with you about a current client," she said before leaving the courthouse.

Howard, the hospital CEO, said he couldn't discuss the lawsuits either. He said he didn't know the hospital took its patients to court. "I had to call and ask if we sue people," he said.

Howard also said he didn't 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 hospital's board of trustees, said he, too, didn't know about the lawsuits. "I hadn't heard anything about them suing," he said.

At the century-old courthouse in downtown McAlester, it's 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 hospital's favor.

"All I can do is follow the law," said McLaughlin. "It doesn't mean I like it."

About this project

"Diagnosis: Debt" is a reporting partnership between KFF Health News and NPR exploring the scale, impact, and causes of medical debt in America.

The series draws on original polling by KFF, court records, federal data on hospital finances, contracts obtained through public records requests, data on international health systems, and a yearlong investigation into the financial assistance and collection policies of more than 500 hospitals across the country.

Additional research was conducted by the Urban Institute, which analyzed credit bureau and other demographic data on poverty, race, and health status for KFF Health News to explore where medical debt is concentrated in the U.S. and what factors are associated with high debt levels.

The JPMorgan Chase Institute analyzed records from a sampling of Chase credit card holders to look at how customers' balances may be affected by major medical expenses. And the CED Project, a Denver nonprofit, worked with KFF Health News on a survey of its clients to explore links between medical debt and housing instability.

KFF Health News journalists worked with KFF public opinion researchers to design and analyze the " KFF Health Care Debt Survey." The survey was conducted Feb. 25 through March 20, 2022, online and via telephone, in English and Spanish, among a nationally representative sample of 2,375 U.S. adults, including 1,292 adults with current health care debt and 382 adults who had health care debt in the past five years.

The margin of sampling error is plus or minus 3 percentage points for the full sample and 3 percentage points for those with current debt. For results based on subgroups, the margin of sampling error may be higher.

2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Determining nucleotide-bound PhPINK1 structures. Credit: Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj7408

A new study has found a molecule hailed as a potential drug candidate for Parkinson's disease is no longer an effective therapeutic option. The WEHI-led research has debunked over 10 years of research that suggested a specific 'activator molecule' could be used to enhance the activity of a protein linked to early-onset Parkinson's disease, PINK1.

The paper is published in the journal Science Advances.

Visualizing PINK1 at an atomic level, the study has transformed our understanding of how PINK1 interacts with natural chemicals but cannot interact with larger drug candidates previously reported to bind similarly. The work will inform efforts to find treatments for the disease, which currently has no cure.

Mutations in the PINK1 protein have been linked to early-onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that has no drug to slow, stop or prevent its progression.

It is estimated that around 220,000 people suffer from Parkinson's disease in Australia alone, with 38 people diagnosed daily.

Although EOPD is thought to make up about 10% of the total number of people with Parkinson's disease, researchers believe that by focusing on EOPD and the genetic mutations associated with the disease, this will lead to quicker drug therapies to help those living with Parkinson's disease.

PINK1: a better understanding of Parkinson's

PINK1 is a mitochondrial protein that supports cell survival. When it is mutated, it can no longer function properly.

Mitochondria are often described as the powerhouses of cells because they produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the source of energy at a cellular level.

When mitochondria are damaged and need disposing to keep cells healthy, they are first tagged by PINK1.

Building a better understanding into the pathways of how damaged mitochondria are processed is crucial to developing a drug therapy for Parkinson's disease. Research into PINK1 is one such pathway.

In the new study, researchers developed a method of imaging PINK1 at an atomic level using high powered microscopy. The team then tracked how the protein switches into its active form when ATP, or its "copycat" molecule KTP, are added.

KTP was reported over a decade ago to enhance PINK1 activity in cells and had represented a promising strategy for early onset Parkinson's disease treatment.

But the research team, led by Dr. Zhong Yan Gan (now at the Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge), Dr. Sylvie Callegari and Professor David Komander discovered that KTP could not bind to the protein as previously thought.

Dr. Callegari is a Senior Researcher in the Komander Lab whose work contributes to the progress being made by WEHI's Parkinson's Disease Research Center.

"While we don't fully understand how PINK1 is stabilized on mitochondria yet, we know that PINK1 tagging is the first step in identifying mitochondrial damage," she said.

A critical step in this process is the activation of the signal-generating ability of PINK1, as soon as it has accumulated on mitochondria.

This requires an additional ingredient, the molecule ATP, which binds to and is used by PINK1 to generate the damage signal.

Advances in technology

The team developed a method of "clustering PINK1 proteins together" so they could stabilize them enough to take high resolution snapshots using cryo-electron microscopy, which has exponentially advanced in the imaging capabilities it provides over the last decade.

Cryo-electron microscopy is an advanced imaging technique used to reveal the 3D structure of biological molecules at near-atomic resolution.

The sample is rapidly frozen to temperatures below -150 C and then beams of electrons are passed through the sample from various angles to produce 2D images which are then used to reconstruct a 3D model.

"The real key to all of these findings has been our ability to visualize PINK1 at an atomic level and observe the structural changes that happen when these molecules bind," said Dr. Callegari, who won the poster prize for this work at a recent Keystone Symposium.

The atomic-level visualization enabled the team to see how PINK1 interacts with molecules such as ATP or KTP, a synthesized, larger copy of ATP.

While researchers have long believed KTP can enhance PINK1 activity, cryo-EM technology enabled a closer inspection. To their surprise, the researchers found that KTP cannot bind to or be used by PINK1 due to its size.

"We did not expect that result, but it's clear from our visualization that KTP is just too big to work," Dr. Callegari said.

What it means for Parkinson's disease

While this finding rules out the use of KTP or its precursors therapeutically in Parkinson's disease patients, it generates new tools to study PINK1 action through non-natural signal inducers such as KTP.

"This work highlights the importance of using the latest high-powered imaging to visualize in detail how therapeutic compounds work," Dr. Callegari said.

"The strategy will now be used to explore novel compounds than can activate or stabilize PINK1, hopefully leading to new treatments for Parkinson's disease."

More information: Zhong Yan Gan et al, Interaction of PINK1 with nucleotides and kinetin, Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj7408 Journal information: Science Advances
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Sooner or later, you will find yourself taking your child to the emergency departmentit's bound to happen. Nearly 30 million children visit the ED each year in the United States.

In a serious emergency, you should always go to the closest ED. Do you know where your nearest ED is located? Do you know which hospital your pediatrician is affiliated with?

If you take your child to an urgent care center or ED that does not have pediatricians or pediatric specialists on staff, your child may need to be transferred to a hospital that does depending on his or her condition.

Children's hospitals, for example, have an atmosphere more geared to childrencolorful rooms and murals, waiting room toys and TVs tuned to kids' shows, and child-sized furniture. Some children's hospitals and pediatric emergency departments also have child life specialists on staff.

They are highly trained to help families and can be an excellent resource to make your child's stay more comfortable in the ED and provide a bridge between the hospital and home. Child life specialists also help to ease your child's anxiety before, during and after procedures.

If you can reach your pediatrician's office first, do so. They can give advice on the phone and, if you do need to head to the ED your pediatrician can call ahead and tell the emergency staff to expect you. In a serious emergency, parents should not hesitate to call 911.

It is OK to give your child over-the-counter fever or pain medicines before heading to the emergency room. The medicine will make a huge difference and often makes the examination process a lot easier. Remember to take note of the time and dosage you gave your child, as it will be one of the first questions you are asked in the ED.

Stay calm and tell your child what to expect

When you panic, your child's anxiety level goes up. For many kids, the anxiety about what's going to happen is worse than the actual pain. Children of all ages look to their parents for reassurance, so it is important to keep communicating. Be honest, but also be sensitive to the situation and his or her age. Let your child know that everyone is there to help.

If possible, make arrangements so you don't have to bring young siblings to the ED with you. This way, you can focus on the needs of your sick child, and your other children do not have to endure the waiting time. Note that you will need to stay with your child throughout his or her ED stay and are strongly encouraged to stay in the hospital with your child if he or she is admitted.

It's always a good idea to have the following information readily available. You may be asked for this information by multiple providers and staff in the ED:

It is also important to know the time your child last ate. Many emergency rooms do not allow patients to have anything to eat or drink until the doctor says it is OK. The main reason is to protect your child if he needs to have a procedure done and/or receive any medications that require an empty stomach. During this time, it's a good idea to refrain from eating in front of your child.

If your child requires a special item to rest or feel at ease, don't hesitate to bring it. A lovey, toy, blanket or book can help take your child's mind off the pain and less anxious in an unfamiliar place.

Understand that there may be good reasons to wait in the emergency department. The sickest patients are seen first. The ED can be a very daunting place and frustration can easily set in.

Please be respectful toward the health care staff taking care of your children. They also have your child's best interest in mind. If your pediatrician calls the hospital before your arrival, however, it can sometimes help speed up the process. In addition, depending on how sick your child is, he or she may need blood work and/or imaging. Realize that it can take a long time for lab work and/or imaging results to come back.

As a parent, you are the best advocate for your child and the best interpreter of his or her needs. If you think your child is in pain, say so. If you don't think he or she is ready to go home, tell a member of the ED team.

Don't be afraid to ask repeated questions and be patient. You and your child will meet lots of different peoplethe ED is a multidisciplinary team. Repeating your story and providing background to each doctor can seem redundant, but it is essential to getting the best care for your child.

Keep in mind that you may not receive all the answers to the reasons for your child's illness during an emergency department visit. Your child may need further evaluation through an inpatient or intensive care unit admission, or an outpatient visit with a subspecialist.

After the emergency department visit, call your pediatrician's office and inform them about the diagnosis. Many EDs will also send a report to your pediatrician's office if you ask them to. Check to see whether your pediatrician has received the report or if he or she has any further recommendations. Many times, your pediatrician will ask to see your child for a follow-up exam.

2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Peggy Malone walks the quiet halls of Crozer-Chester Medical Center, the Pennsylvania hospital where she's worked as a registered nurse for the past 35 years, with the feeling she's drifting through a ghost town.

The sprawling hospital serves the diverse and densely packed Philadelphia suburb of Upland, and a large proportion of its patients earn low incomes. Malone remembers a time when the hospital, once the largest in the county with nearly 500 licensed beds, was such a hub that neighbors would come to the cafeteria just to have dinner.

Now many of the units sit empty. Gone are the pediatric unit, the transplant program, the surgical residency and the detox program where Malone used to work. Staff has been reduced and supplies are scarce.

Patients' rooms in the main building haven't had television since the cable was disconnected last month, she said.

Malone has grown accustomed to telling this story over and over to reporters, to researchers, even to Congress in recent years. Her communityher hospitalis a cautionary tale for what can happen when private equity comes to town.

"We want to give good patient care," she told Stateline. "We want to not be using broken equipment and piecing supplies together. But we don't have the power to stop what's happening."

Private equity firms use pooled investments from pension funds, endowments, sovereign wealth funds and wealthy individuals to buy controlling stakes in companies. In the past couple of years, private equity's foray into hospital ownership has drawn public outrage and, increasingly, legislative scrutiny.

"It's now a familiar story," U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, a Rhode Island Democrat, said last month in a statement announcing a bipartisan investigation with Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley into the impacts of private equity ownership of hospitals. "[P]rivate equity buys out a hospital, saddles it with debt, and then reduces operating costs by cutting services and staffall while investors pocket millions. Before the dust settles, the private equity firm sells and leaves town, leaving communities to pick up the pieces."

That "familiar story" played out in Malone's backyard.

Prospect Medical Holdings, the for-profit hospital chain that owns Crozer-Chester hospital, was majority-owned by private equity firm Leonard Green & Partners from 2010 until 2021. Under Leonard Green's ownership, Prospect loaded its hospitals with massive debt and then used the proceeds to pay shareholders more than half a billion dollars in dividends, according to an investigation by the Rhode Island attorney general's office.

Leonard Green & Partners sold its controlling interest in the chain in 2021. Neither company responded to Stateline's requests for comment as of press time.

Meanwhile, Prospect's hospitalsmost of them serving economically vulnerable communities such as Uplandslashed services, laid off hundreds of workers and, in some cases, closed permanently.

But state laws, and how aggressively they're enforced, can change the trajectory of the story. Prospect treated its hospitals similarly across Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. Yet a robust state law and aggressive state regulators improved the forecast for Prospect's hospitals in Rhode Island, at least temporarily.

As Prospect continues to founder, state and local leaders in Connecticut and Pennsylvania are considering legislative solutions to better protect communities from exploitative financial transactions. Roughly half the states enacted related laws last year, and more are pursuing bills this year.

"We can't do anything about what's already happened with Prospect," said Pennsylvania state Sen. Tim Kearney. The Democrat represents parts of Delaware County, home to Crozer-Chester and other Prospect-owned hospitals, two of which have now closed. "But we can certainly prevent it from happening in the future."

Behind the curtain

Nearly 400 U.S. hospitals are owned by private equity investors, representing one out of every three for-profit hospitals, according to the Private Equity Stakeholder Project, a research and advocacy group.

Typically, private equity firms focus on boosting the value of an asset before selling it within a few years, ideally at a profit. Over the past decade, private equity investors have spent $1 trillion acquiring health care companies.

But private equity's financial transactions and business structures can be so complex that state lawmakers, judges and others charged with protecting the public interest can have a hard time deciphering exactly what they're doing.

"It's a shell game," said Connecticut state Rep. Kevin Brown. The Democrat's district includes the working-class borough of Rockville, where the Prospect-owned Rockville General Hospital has closed most of its inpatient units in recent years and offers few services beyond emergency care and one-day surgery. Brown said he'd had no idea how much money private equity could extract from hospitals until it happened in his community.

"These giant amounts of money are being moved around from one corporate entity to another. It's bad in any industry, but we're talking health care and people's lives," he said. "To me, that should never coexist, this idea of turning a profit on people's lives and health, [or] to see these mergers and payoffs happen to satisfy the needs of shareholders as opposed to putting the money back into the hospital."

Supporters of private equity say its investments fill critical gaps in the U.S. health care system, providing much-needed capital to help hospitals and physicians upgrade technology and streamline their processes.

Jamal Hagler, vice president of research for the American Investment Council, an advocacy and lobbying organization for the private equity industry, said most private equity deals in health care are successful and create positive benefits for both the investors and the businesses.

"Health care is very complicated. It's hard to point to private equity and lay the blame when there are lots of other factors that can cause hospitals to have financial issues." Hagler said.

"What we've seen in the academic literature is that the changes and the helpful expertise private equity provides to their portfolio companies continue long after they've exited the investment."

One study from Indiana University suggests private equity improves efficiency at hospitals without compromising health care quality.

Research into private equity's impact on health carefrom quality to access to costsis still in the early stages, said Joseph Bruch, an assistant professor of public health sciences at the University of Chicago whose research has focused on private equity in health care.

Last month, Bruch and a team of researchers from Harvard Medical School published a study that found patients were more likely to fall or contract infections in a hospital after its acquisition by a private equity firm. A 2022 Moody's Investors Service report found that almost 90% of financially stressed health care companies are owned by private equity.

So far, one of the most consistent findings in recently published studies has been that private equity tends to be associated with increased costs for both patients and insurance providers, Bruch said. Quality of care tends to be more of a mixed bag. A 2020 study, also co-authored by Bruch, found hospitals acquired by private equity saw improvement in some quality measures.

The jury's still out on "the long-term implications of a small number of financial actors owning large swaths of our health care system," Bruch said.

And while private equity's enthusiasm for hospitals appears to be cooling under mounting pressure from states, federal regulators and the public, Americans will continue to see private equity seeping into nearly every aspect of their health care.

"Private equity firms are buying physician practices, dialysis clinics, hospitals, nursing homes," Bruch said. "From cradle to grave, fertility clinics to hospice, they're involved."

Rhode Island roadblock

In 2019, Prospect sold the real estate out from under its hospitals in California, Connecticut and Pennsylvania to a real estate investment trust for $1.55 billion. The deal allowed Prospect to pay off loan debts. Then the trust leased the property back to Prospect, meaning the hospitals now had to pay rent on property they once owned. The deal saddled one Pennsylvania hospital with $35 million in yearly rent.

By 2020, Prospect and its hospitals were showing signs of financial distress and Leonard Green tried to offload the company by selling its majority stake.

But the deal hit a snag in Rhode Island. Prospect's change of ownership would require the approval of the state attorney general and health department, thanks to a 1997 law called the Hospital Conversions Act. The law gives the state the power to review such transactions to ensure they serve the public interest.

"Rhode Island has the most robust legislation of this kind that I'm aware of," said Mary Bugbee, senior research and campaign coordinator for health care at the Private Equity Stakeholder Project. "Leonard Green had to jump through a lot of hoops so it could exit its investment, and Rhode Island did a great job in holding them accountable for some of their extractive and exploitative practices."

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha, a Democrat, launched an investigation into Leonard Green and Prospect. He didn't like what he found, including the recapitalization transactions that loaded hospitals with debt while paying shareholders hundreds of millions in dividends.

"As the team and I dug into it, it became apparent to me that this was a very different Prospect Medical Holdings than it had been even three or four years ago," he said. "They weren't capable of supporting our hospitals here in Rhode Island and if we didn't do something, there was a strong possibility they would close them."

He watched Prospect's hospitals struggling in Pennsylvania and Connecticut, where state laws are less robust. He believes private equity is the main culprit.

"If we simply let Leonard Green walk away from their ownership interest in our two local hospitals, we were going to be in a much more difficult negotiating position later," Neronha said.

His office ultimately approved the sale, but with conditions that included requiring Prospect and Leonard Green to set aside $80 million in escrow to ensure the hospitals' expenses would be covered for the next five years. The sale was finalized and Leonard Green left Prospect and its hospitalsbut only after contributing $34 million.

"It's all well and good to have the tools, but you've got to be willing to use them," Neronha said of Rhode Island's law. "I used this phrase with Leonard Green's counsel: If the boat was going to hit the shoreline or sink, we were all going to be on it together. Nobody was getting off, particularly not the ones who caused it."

'It was insidious'

In Pennsylvania, things weren't going as well. By early 2022, Prospect-owned Crozer Health system, which included Crozer-Chester and four other hospitals, was hemorrhaging money and Prospect was looking for a buyer.

It announced it would temporarily close Springfield Hospital and its emergency department. Then it closed the obstetrics unit at Delaware County Memorial Hospital.

"It was insidious, the way it started," said Kearney. "They literally put a sign on the door [at Delaware County Memorial] telling expectant mothers which two buses to take" to get to the next closest Prospect-owned hospital.

Prospect continued cutting services and closing wards at Delaware County Memorial, including the intensive care and surgery units. It laid off more than 200 workers. By September, a month after one potential buyer walked away from a deal to purchase the troubled system, Prospect announced it was closing Delaware County Memorial to transition it to a behavioral health facility, leaving the community without an emergency room.

That prompted legal action from the county and a local nonprofit foundation, which took Prospect to court, seeking an emergency injunction to halt the closure. They said the plan endangered public health. A judge granted their request, but in November the state health department shuttered the hospital anyway, citing a lack of staffing.

Meanwhile in Connecticut, state Rep. Jason Doucette, a Democrat whose district lies east of Hartford, was fielding calls from constituents concerned about the declining quality of care at Manchester Memorial, one of three Connecticut hospitals owned by Prospect.

The nonprofit Yale New Haven Health, Connecticut's largest health system, had tentatively agreed to buy the hospitals. But a state regulatory review process that Doucette described as "more cumbersome than it needs to be" was moving sluggishly. Prospect was unable to pay some of its bills, he learned, and conditions at the safety net hospital have been deteriorating.

A raft of new legislation

This year, Kearney is working with Democratic and Republican colleagues in Pennsylvania to introduce legislation inspired by Rhode Island's law as well as antitrust laws in states such as California and Washington.

The bill would require health systems to file details of major transactions such as mergers and acquisitions with the state attorney general's office. The attorney general would be able to legally challenge deals deemed to be against the public interest. Lawmakers in Connecticut are also looking at options for improving their state's review and approval process.

Illinois passed a similar bill last summer, granting the attorney general more oversight of health care transactions; it was signed into law and went into effect on Jan. 1. Colorado, Minnesota and New York also added requirements for hospitals, health systems and private investment firms to notify states of proposed mergers or other transactions.

In 2023 alone, 24 states enacted laws related to health system consolidation and competition, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures, an advisory think tank for lawmakers. At the federal level, the Biden administration recently announced new efforts to subject mergers and acquisitions to more scrutiny by agencies such as the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission. Whitehouse and Grassley, in their Senate investigation, sent letters to a handful of current and former hospital owners, including Leonard Green and Prospect, demanding answers to a list of detailed questions about their financial transactions.

"We're excited to see there's bipartisan appetite to look at some of these actors," said Bugbee, of the Private Equity Stakeholder Project. "The increased scrutiny is great, but it's such a beast to deal with that while they may have an impact in one sector of the health care system, there's still going to be so much more work to be done, for a long time."

Wall Street and private equity firms are popular villains in America's complex and troubled health care system. But private equity can extract wealth from vulnerable communities because the system is broken, said Connecticut state Sen. Saud Anwar, a Democrat. He also is a physician specializing in pulmonology and is chair of the department of internal medicine at two Prospect-owned hospitals, Manchester Memorial and Rockville General.

He points to systemic problems such as ineffective regulations and low physician reimbursement rates from public and private health insurance that make American health care an unsustainable business model.

"As a result, private equity has an opportunity to come in and find ways to slice and dice the system, make their money and then run," he said. "While we need to make sure we restrict how these financial groups come into the health care world, we also have to make sure the alternative is functioning."

New mergers and acquisitions (maybe)

Physicians, nurses and legislators rallied at the Connecticut Capitol in November to urge the state to speed up its review of Prospect's sale of three Connecticut hospitals to Yale New Haven Health.

Meanwhile, in Rhode Island, the attorney general and health department announced in December that they would begin reviewing Prospect's application to sell its two hospitals to a Georgia-based nonprofit, The Centurion Foundation.

In Pennsylvania, Prospect reached a deal with the Pennsylvania attorney general's office to pause the active lawsuit against it, to open a nine-month window in which the firm could sell its hospitals to a successor. Local leaders are hoping a nonprofit system will step forward.

So does Malone, the Crozer-Chester nurse.

"We leave work every day feeling like we couldn't do enough," she said. "But we're going to keep believing that if we keep fighting, we can make this place become what's best for our community again."

2024 States Newsroom. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Researchers have identified a receptor protein known as CHRM1 as a key player in prostate cancer cells' resistance to docetaxel, a commonly-used chemotherapy drug to treat advanced cancer that has spread beyond the prostate.

The discovery opens the door to new treatment strategies that could overcome this resistance. This could ultimately help extend the lives of those with prostate cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among men.

Led by a team of scientists at Washington State University, the study showed that blocking CHRM1 in resistant prostate cancer cell lines and an animal model based on patient-derived resistant tissue restored docetaxel's ability to kill cells and stop tumor growth. The researchers did this by using dicyclomine, a drug that selectively inhibits CHRM1 activity. Dicyclomine is already on the market as a generic drug and is currently used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

"The effect was pretty dramatic in all the experimental models we tested," said Boyang (Jason) Wu, an associate professor in the WSU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and co-senior author on the study. "And because dicyclomine already has a clinical use, this work has immediate translational potential."

Published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine, the researchers' findings support clinical testing to confirm whether combined use of docetaxel and dicyclomine could help overcome treatment resistance in prostate cancer patients.

Docetaxel resistance can develop in prostate cancer after about six months of treatment. Chemotherapy drugs like docetaxel are among very few options available to patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, a lethal form of the disease that no longer responds to hormone therapy.

Wu said this type of combination therapy could also potentially be used for other cancers that are currently being treated with docetaxel, such as breast and lung cancer. It may also be possible to use the same combination strategy with other similar chemotherapy drugs.

In addition to testing resistant cancer cell lines, the research team also tested cells that still responded to docetaxel treatment. They found that using dicyclomine to block CHRM1 in these cells made docetaxel more efficient at killing them. Wu said that this shows that prostate cancer patients could potentially benefit from a combination treatment strategy even before docetaxel resistance develops.

"What this suggests is that the lowest effective dose of docetaxel may be lower when the drug is combined with dicyclomine, compared to when docetaxel is used alone," Wu said. "Being able to use a lower dose could help reduce unwanted side effects and make treatment more manageable for patients."

The research team conducted the study in collaboration with scientists at the University of Washington, Medical University of Innsbruck in Austria and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan.
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Credit: DESA, U. (2022). United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2022). World Population Prospects 2022: Summary of Results, 3, 2022-1.

Young peopleunder the age of 15currently make up 29% of South Africa's population. But this will soon change: the aged portion of the population is forecast to rise from 2030, bringing many challenges. Lauren Johnston, an economics and political economy expert, recently published a paper on the subject. We asked her to put the developments into perspective.

What is South Africa's current population profile?

South Africa is "young" among the Brics countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China), but "old" by African standards. For example, seniors make up 5.9% of South Africa's population and children 28.6%. This compares with Russia's 15.8% seniors and 17.2% children, and China's 13.7% seniors and 17.7% children.

The sub-Saharan average is 3.0% for seniors and 41.8% for children.

What's up ahead?

South Africa faces no fears of a substantially diminished working-age population, unlike a number of high-income countries. Nonetheless, population structure estimates suggest that it will be home to a rising number of seniors.

In general, the increase in population share of seniors is driven by falling rates of mortality and birth, leading to fewer younger people relative to elders. In South Africa's case, a falling fertility rate from over six births per woman in 1960 to just over two today is a key driver.

An aging population is statistically defined as a population with 7% or more of people aged 65 and over.

In 2022, seniors made up 5.9% of South Africa's population. So, it is not yet home to an aging population. But the United Nations forecasts it will join the "population aging" club as early as 2030. By around 2060 it will be home to an "aged" populationwith seniors accounting for 14% of the population.

What unique challenges lie ahead?

In general, an aging population puts added pressure on the working-age population. Each worker has to be more productive, just to maintain total output. Fiscal resources also come under pressure because there are fewer people of working agenet contributors to the economy. There are also more seniors requiring resources for their health and welfare.

For developing countries this can be especially precarious because budgets are often under strain. So are the resources needed for pursuing basic national development. Moreover, a trend of population aging arising in developing countries is relatively newjust a few decades old.

How prepared is South Africa for the challenges?

One challenge for "young" South Africa is that the slower pace of demographic change reduces imminent and more obvious demographic change pressure. The very steady increase in the share of elders alongside pressing broader socioeconomic challenges gives the government little incentive to prioritize social or economic aging-related issues on its policy agenda.

The array of socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, crime, entrenched inequality and energy access, means that the need to respond to the demographic transition is less of an immediate priority.

As a result, very few older South Africans benefit from aged care services, and then only the very frail, with inconsistent reach across provinces. Moreover, according to an October 2023 University of Cape Town study, there is little support for older persons who have high care needs and are at home, or for active older persons.

Most elders do not have access to services that support their needs, but also fear rising health care costs, owing to the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases. These include strokes, cancer and diabetes.

Overall the basic national social welfare net is inadequate. For example, retirees living off less than 16% of their pre-retirement salaries are among those with the highest risk of living in poverty. This group is three times more at risk of poverty than any other group in South Africa. Black female widows are most at risk.

While the economic value of support to older persons has grown over time, the increase has been insufficient to meet the needs of this growing population. Statistics South Africa estimates that population aging alone is already adding around 0.3% to expected health-related expenditures annually. These trends suggest that without change, South Africa's seniors will become even less adequately served with time.

What needs to be done to prepare better?

South Africa has committed to establishing frameworks for healthy aging based on the United Nations Decade of Healthy Aging from 2020 to 2030. The agenda has four core areas of priorityage-friendly environments, combating ageism, integrated care, and long-term care. To realize these goals, difficult political decisions would need to be made around taxation and redistribution, as more revenue is required to ensure basic dignity for South African seniors.

Guided by the Older Persons Act and the Madrid Plan of Action on Aging, the Department of Social Development in partnership with other departments, and the South African Older Persons Forum should further implement South Africa's Active Aging Program to empower senior citizens to stay physically and intellectually active, to continue to enjoying healthy, purposeful lives. This should help reduce pressure on more intensive care sectors and needs.

As explained in my paper, South Africa should take advantage of the Brics grouping's new population structure and development cooperation agenda. That way, state officials, civil society and entrepreneurs may be better positioned to take advantage of opportunities to reduce health care and aged care costs.

To direct sustain the economy as the population ages, South Africa needs to ensure that the economy is robust enough to accommodate a worsening dependency burden. For example, young people must be proportionately empowered to drive productivity growth and innovation. That way, the increasing costs associated with the aging population could be accommodated while continuing to drive national development.

Digitization trends and the Brics population and development agenda may, as examples, also foster opportunities for education and training among not only young South Africans, but all working-age people. This will help raise productivity potential per worker and extend productive working lifespans.

South African policy makers and entrepreneurs should also be cognisant of how population aging affects not only other Brics economies, but also patterns of trade and investment. For example, over the coming decades, population decline in middle-income China, and the rapid decline of its working-age population, is likely to push China away from labor-intensive industries, and towards capital-intensive industries and sectors.

In other words, population aging at home and abroad will shift economic demography-weighted opportunities and challenges at home. The more responsive South Africa can be to these changes, the better off will the nation be.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Holiday season has passed. Gatherings have slowed. But don't let your guard down just yetexperts say we're still in the midst of respiratory virus season.

COVID-19, influenza and RSVknown to many working in infectious disease as the "Big Three" virusescontinue to sweep through Washington state and the U.S., keeping community transmission levels high and straining some health care facilities as a new COVID variant takes hold.

There's some good news: The fall rise of COVID hospitalizations has slowed and flu hospitalizations have declined in recent weeks, according to the most recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The state's RSV hospitalizations have dropped significantly since late December.

"That's hopefully a good sign," said Pavitra Roychoudhury, a research assistant professor of laboratory medicine and pathology at the University of Washington. "But others have cautioned that sometimes you see a little bit of a dip before Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's, then another bump, then a slight dip again. Then, kids go back to school and things sometimes pick back up."

In Washington, COVID hospitalizations started to rise in September and early October, before taking a dip in November, the CDC reported. Hospitalizations ticked back up around mid-December, accounting for about 3.4% of total hospitalizations, according to the state Department of Health's respiratory virus data dashboard. As of Jan. 13, the figure had dropped to about 2.6% of total hospitalizations.

Respiratory virus-related emergency visits, hospital admissions and ICU beds occupied are all down from the prior week, the dashboard reports.

The numbers are nowhere near where they were during the surge of the omicron variant two years agowhen COVID patients made up more than 15% of emergency visits and nearly 20% of all hospitalizations. They're also lower than they were at this time last year, which recorded a rapid early start to RSV and flu season.

But the amount of respiratory virus circulating throughout Washington is still at "elevated" levels, said Dr. Scott Lindquist, the state's health officer. More than 400 people have died from COVID so far this season.

"When we were in the real thick of COVID, everyone was being real careful about hand-washing, mask-wearing, not going to school or work when sick," Lindquist said. "We essentially saw an absence of RSV and flu then. So these are lessons to be learned. We need to continue to apply them."

Last fall, more than a dozen local health departments and hospital systems around the region came up with a plan to determine when to bring back indoor masking requirements in health care facilities, where there are generally more people at risk of severe infection or death if they catch a respiratory virus.

According to the agreement, participating systems would reactivate masking policies if RSV, flu or COVID levels reached the "transmission alert threshold" (different for each virus) for emergency visits, which capture more timely data when people are developing symptomsversus hospitalization numbers, which have more of a delay. Facilities will also bring back indoor masking if the CDC's COVID hospital admissions hit "medium" levels, meaning a hospital admits more than 10 new COVID patients per 100,000 people within a given week.

For influenza, the alert threshold for ER visits is 1% of total visits; for RSV, the threshold is 0.3% of total ER visits; and for COVID, the threshold is 3% of total ER visits.

The approach aims to balance community disease transmission rates and the "operational needs" of facilities to support staff and patient safety, according to the Northwest Healthcare Response Network, a coalition of Washington health care systems. The policies are not a legal requirement, and not all hospitals in the state have joined.

"They indicate a level of once you get to a certain number of ER visits for a specific respiratory virus illness, you're almost always going to see a peak," said Snohomish County health officer Dr. James Lewis. "If you remain below, you're likely going to either stay low or go down."

Once emergency visits for all three viruses are below their respective transmission alert thresholds and CDC COVID hospital admission levels are below "medium" for two weeks, health care facilities can then relax universal masking policies, per the agreement.

In Washington, although flu and RSV hospitalizations are down, both viruses are still above their transmission alert thresholds, now accounting for 2% and 1% of ER visits, respectively. COVID patients make up about 2% of ER visitsjust below its alert threshold.

"This is indicating that there remains a lot of community transmission of these infections," said Dr. Eric Chow, chief of communicable disease, epidemiology and immunization for Public HealthSeattle & King County.

Several hospitals in the Puget Sound region have already brought back indoor masking for staffers, patients and visitors.

"This is the time where we should be thinking, 'Okay, if I get on an airplane, I should probably wear a mask,'" Lindquist said. "If I go to a crowded event, like a ballgame, I should consider wearing a mask."

He acknowledged the resistance many Washingtonians might feel around returning to widespread masking mandates, which is why that's not something state officials are currently considering.

"(This metric) certainly provides the data, certainly honors hospitals and health care settings, certainly thinks of protecting those that are most vulnerable, but again, leaves some ability for local control," Lindquist said.

Past the peak?

While second waves of flu and RSV are generally not common during a respiratory virus season, another surge is not impossible, Lindquist said.

Consistent declines in recent hospitalizations and ER visits give him "guarded optimism" that the state has hit its peak for flu and RSV, but clinics are still seeing a lot of patients with respiratory viruses, Lindquist said.

"Right after the holiday season, it is very common for us to see fluctuations in trends of these infections, in part because there's a change in health care-seeking behavior," Chow said. "Clinics are not always open, and people are not necessarily testing at that time."

Potential future COVID waves are still hard to predict, particularly with the emergence of new variant JN.1, which in December became the most widely circulating COVID variant in the U.S. and currently makes up about 86% of infections nationally. In Washington, state data shows JN.1 accounts for less than 3% of infections, though Chow noted that because not very many people are testing themselves for COVID, and therefore are contributing to a smaller sample size, there might not be the "same degree of accuracy" to predict how many infections in King County, for example, are attributable to any one variant.

Public health experts also pointed to the state's wastewater concentration levels, which captures the amount of pathogens circulating within a given community, as a useful indicator for what could be ahead.

Nationally, the CDC reported COVID activity in wastewater remains "very high"the highest levels since the omicron wavethough local health experts pointed out a few caveats.

Wastewater data doesn't directly translate to case numbers. It only captures samples from specific sewage systems and it can be influenced by levels of precipitation that could change the concentration of viral particles, Chow said. Individual people shed different concentrations of virus, which can also vary by COVID variant.

In Washington, Lindquist reported that although there are some hot spot wastewater sites, many are "below activity."

West Point Treatment Plant, which covers parts of King and Snohomish counties, is one such hot spot, recording a significant jump in SARS-CoV-2 concentrations since late August.

"Given that prior peaks for flu have been as late as February, it's good to keep watching for a few more weeks," Roychoudhury said.

Advice for Washingtonians

Roychoudhury knows she sounds like a broken record when it comes to protecting against severe flu, RSV and COVID infections.

But the advice remains the same: Get vaccinated against COVID and influenza (and RSV, if you're eligible). Wear a mask in crowded, indoor settingsespecially if you're at risk of severe infection or death, or if you're often around someone who is. Don't go to work or school if you're sick. Ask your doctor about taking antivirals if you get sick with the flu or COVID.

Despite the state's high levels of vaccination during the height of the pandemic, vaccine uptake has dropped significantly with the recent rollout of new shots. About 69.3% of Washingtonians have completed their primary series, but just 16.8% are considered up-to-date, meaning most people have not received a new 2023 shot, which became available last fall.

Public health experts continue to debate whether multiple COVID infections will make a person more susceptible to developing long COVID, but Chow pointed to one 2022 study out of the VA Hospital that suggests risk of long COVID does seem to increase as people become reinfected.

"What we do know about long COVID is that whatever we can do to reduce our risk of infection and more severe disease at the acute phase will also likely reduce our risks of longer term symptoms," Chow said. "That's where vaccination plays an important role. Testing and getting treated early is also really critical."

If you do think you have COVID, flu or RSV, health officials recommended getting tested in a medical setting, which would help dictate treatment options, but encouraged against showing up at the ER unless symptoms become life-threatening.

Urgent care centers can also provide testing.

"At this point in the year, I know people are eager to see downward trends and try to interpret that, but the reality is that even if things were to be truly down trending right now, levels remain relatively high," Chow said. "If people start to change their behaviors, it's actually very likely they're going to still get an infection. We're in the thick of things."

2024 The Seattle Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Artificial Intelligence will not take away all the jobs nor will it end civilisation, says SAS, a leader in analytics.

Generative AI technology does a lot of things, but it cant do everything. In 2024, organisations will pivot from viewing generative AI as a stand-alone technology to integrating it as a complement to industry-specific AI strategies, says Bryan Harris, Chief Technology Officer, SAS.

In banking, simulated data for stress testing and scenario analysis will help predict risks and prevent losses. In health care, that means the generation of individualised treatment plans. In manufacturing, generative AI can simulate production to identify improvements in quality, reliability, maintenance, energy efficiency and yield, he says.

AI will create jobs

In 2023, there was a lot of worry about the jobs that AI might eliminate. The conversation in 2024 will focus instead on the jobs AI will create, says Udo Sglavo, Vice President of Advanced Analytics, SAS.

An obvious example is prompt engineering, which links a model's potential with its real-world application. AI helps workers at all skill levels and roles to be more effective and efficient.

Along with this new AI technologies in 2024 and beyond may cause some short-term disruptions in the job market. However, they will also spark many new jobs and roles that will help drive economic growth, he says.

AI will enhance responsible marketing

As marketers, we must consciously practice responsible marketing. Facets of this are awareness of the fallibility of AI and alertness to possible bias creeping in. While AI offers the promise of enhanced marketing and advertising programmes, we know that biased data and models beget biased results. In SAS Marketing, we are implementing model cards that are like an ingredient list, but for AI. Whether you create or apply AI, you are responsible for its impact. That's why all marketers, regardless of technical know-how, can review the model cards, validate that their algorithms are effective, fair, and adjust as needed, says Jennifer Chase, Chief Marketing Officer, SAS.

Financial firms will embrace AI amid a Dark Age of Fraud

Even as consumers signal increased fraud vigilance, generative AI and deepfake technology are helping fraudsters hone their multitrillion-dollar craft. Phishing messages are more polished. Imitation websites look stunningly legitimate. A crook can clone a voice with a few seconds of audio using simple online tools. We are entering the Dark Age of Fraud, where banks and credit unions will scramble to make up for lost time in AI adoption  incentivised, no doubt, by regulatory shifts forcing financial firms to assume greater liability for soaring APP [authorised push payment] scams and other frauds, says Stu Bradley, Senior Vice President of Risk, Fraud and Compliance Solutions, SAS.

Shadow AI will challenge CIOs

CIOs have struggled with shadow IT in the past and will now confront shadow AI  solutions used by or developed within an organisation without official sanction or monitoring by IT. Well-intentioned employees will continue to use generative AI tools to increase productivity. And CIOs will wrestle daily with how much to embrace these generative AI tools and what guardrails should be put in place to safeguard their organisations from associated risks, says Jay Upchurch, Chief Information Officer, SAS.

Multimodal AI and AI simulation will reach new frontiers

The integration of text, images and audio into a single model is the next frontier of generative AI. Known as multimodal AI, it can process a diverse range of inputs simultaneously, enabling more context-aware applications for effective decision making, says Marinela Profi, AI/Generative AI Strategy Advisor, SAS.

An example of this will be the generation of 3D objects, environments and spatial data. This will have applications in augmented reality [AR], virtual reality [VR], and the simulation of complex physical systems such as digital twins, says Profi.

Digital-twin adoption will accelerate

Technologies like AI and IoT [Internet of Things] analytics drive important sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, energy and government. Workers on the factory floor and in the executive suite use these technologies to transform huge volumes of data into better, faster decisions.

In 2024, the adoption of AI and IoT analytics will accelerate through broader use of digital-twin technologies, which analyse real-time sensor and operational data and create duplicates of complex systems like factories, smart cities and energy grids. With digital twins, organisations can optimise operations, improve product quality, enhance safety, increase reliability and reduce emissions, says Jason Mann, Vice President of IoT, SAS.

Insurers will confront climate risk, aided by AI

After decades of anticipation, climate change has transformed from speculative menace to genuine threat. Global insured losses from natural disasters surpassed $130 billion in 2022, and insurers worldwide are feeling the squeeze. US insurers, for example, are under scrutiny for raising premiums and withdrawing from hard-hit states like California and Florida, leaving tens of millions of consumers in the lurch.

To survive this crisis, insurers will increasingly adopt AI to tap the potential of their immense data stores to shore up liquidity and be competitive. Beyond the gains they realise in dynamic premium pricing and risk assessment, AI will help them automate and enhance claims processing, fraud detection, customer service and more, says Troy Haines, Senior Vice President of Risk Research and Quantitative Solutions, SAS.

AI importance will grow in government

The workforce implications of AI will start being felt in government. Governments have a hard time attracting and retaining AI talent since experts command such high salaries. However, they will aggressively recruit for expertise to support regulatory actions. Additionally, enterprises and governments will increasingly turn to AI and analytics to boost productivity, automate menial tasks and mitigate that talent shortage, notes Reggie Townsend, Vice President of the SAS Data Ethics Practice.

Generative AI will bolster patient care

To advance health and improve patient and member experiences, organisations will further develop generative AI-powered tools in 2024 for personalised medicine, such as the creation of patient-specific avatars for use in clinical trials and the generation of individualised treatment plans. Additionally, we will see the emergence of generative AI-based systems for clinical decision support, delivering real-time guidance to payers, providers and pharmaceutical organisations, says Steve Kearney, Global Medical Director, SAS.

Deliberate AI deployment will make or break insurers

In 2024, one of the top 100 global insurers will go out of business as a consequence of deploying generative AI too quickly. Right now, insurers are rolling out autonomous systems at breakneck speed with no tailoring to their business models. Theyre hoping that using AI to crunch through claims quickly will offset the last few years of poor business results. However, after 2023s layoffs, remaining staff will be spread too thin to enact the necessary oversight to deploy AI ethically and at scale. The myth of AI as a cure-all will trigger tens of thousands of faulty business decisions that will lead to a corporate collapse, which may irreparably damage consumer and regulator trust, says Franklin Manchester, Global Insurance Strategic Advisor, SAS.

Public health will get an AI boost from academia

Public health is achieving technologic modernisation at an unprecedented rate. Whether overdoses or flu surveillance, using data to anticipate public health interventions is essential. Forecasting and modelling are rapidly becoming the cornerstone of public health work, but government needs help. Enter academia. We will see an increase in academic researchers carrying out AI-driven modeling and forecasting on behalf of government. It is clear after Covid-19 that the protection of our population will require exceptional technology and collaboration, predicts Dr Meghan Schaeffer, National Public Health Advisor and Epidemiologist, SAS.--TradeArabia News Service
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The salmonella outbreak previously linked to charcuterie meats sold at Sam's Club also has been connected to meats from the same company sold at Costco. And, the CDC says, the outbreak's reached 22 states.

Here's some facts you might want to know.

What's the Costco-sold meat product now involved?

Costco posted Fratelli Beretta's announcement that "in an abundance of caution," Fratelli Beretta U.S. "issued a voluntary market withdrawal" of Fratelli Beretta Antipasto Gran Beretta.

The "voluntary market withdrawal"a recall by any other nameinvolves item No. 1074880, twin 12-ounce trays of dry salami, dry coppa and prosciutto sold at Costco from Nov. 16 through Jan. 9 with a best-by date of June 13, 2024.

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 Sam's Club. The best-by date on this lot is April 27, 2024.

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 they've eaten recently and 19 said they'd 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 Sam's Club. Three of them bought the Busseto sampler, but the other two couldn't 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.

2024 McClatchy Washington Bureau. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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The DEGs we identified upon 2 h, and 18 h of DEX treatments in A549 cells align with the other existing RNAseq and ChIP-seq datasets. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44031-2

Stress isn't merely an oppressive feeling we experience when we're overwhelmed; it's the body's natural reaction to acute or persistent strain. This stress response is what enables us to quickly adapt to danger or a shift in conditions. But if this responsewhich is essential for survivalgets out of control and becomes a permanent state, it can trigger a wide range of negative effects: obesity, cardiovascular diseases, increased susceptibility to infection, memory disorders and depression are all typical effects of chronic stress.

Up to now, medical treatment has focused almost entirely on the symptoms of these secondary conditions. "The only approved drug that directly intervenes in the regulation of stress responses has a host of unwanted side effects. It was actually developed as an abortifacient and its impact on stress is merely a side effect," explains Katharina Gapp, head of the Epigenetics and Neuroendocrinology group at the Institute for Neuroscience at ETH Zurich.

In collaboration with three other ETH research groups, Gapp has now developed a promising new agent that pinpoints and eliminates the control center of the stress responsewhat's called the glucocorticoid receptorin cell cultures and animal models. In the future, this could enable stress-related conditions such as chronic depression to be treated much more specifically and with fewer side effects. The study is published in Nature Communications.

Receptor is key to cortisol's efficacy

By eliminating the receptor protein, the researchers are preventing the stress hormone cortisol from triggering the reaction in the first place. This is because in order to activate the genes responsible for the stress response, cortisol must bond with the glucocorticoid receptor. That's when the body experiences the typical symptoms of stress such as elevated pulse rate, increased blood flow to muscles, a surge in metabolic activity, decreased pain perception and heightened concentration.

In contrast to the above-mentioned abortifacient drug, the new ETH molecule essentially affects only the glucocorticoid receptor. This is thanks to what's known as the proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) method, which allows the agent to target the receptor proteins and supply the cells with a natural degradation system.

The right configuration of receptor and enzyme

PROTAC drug molecules are made up of two different functional subunits that share a connection. One of the two subunits binds specifically to an enzyme, which chemically tags the proteins in the cell that are to be degraded. The second subunit is designed to bind as selectively as possible to the protein of interest (POI) targeted for deactivation. By bringing the enzyme and POI in close proximity to one another, the drug molecule ensures the protein gets tagged and thus degraded.

As elegant the method is in theory, it's actually really difficult to achieve in the lab. Getting the selective tagging of the glucocorticoid receptor to work depends on ensuring that the two functional subunits bind in as targeted way as possible to the tagging enzyme and the receptor. In addition, the length and type of connection between the two subunits must exactly match the specific enzyme-protein pairing.

Organic chemistry, bioengineering and molecular neurosciences

Designing, synthesizing and fully testing potential PROTAC agents calls for specialized know-how from a wide variety of disciplines. Gapp was able to count on the expertise of three ETH research groups: Erick Carreira's team of organic chemists designed and synthesized the molecule variants, Andreas Hierlemann's group at the Bio Engineering Laboratory carried out measurements in cell systems, and members of the Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience group led by Johannes Bohacek helped test the effects in mice.

"As the project went on, it got larger and more complex," Gapp recalls. "The collaboration with leading specialists from such varied disciplines was essential for success. ETH provides the ideal framework for this kind of endeavor."

Next steps towards creating a drug

As they move towards creating a drug, the scientists now need to understand exactly how the molecule operates in the cells, its dose/effect relationships, how it interacts with other molecules, and how it is absorbed, dispersed and metabolized by the body. Even if all goes well, it will still be at least several years before the first applications are ready for patients.

Gapp is convinced that the PROTAC method holds vast potential for creating new drugs. "Unlike existing agents, which are capable of blocking only one receptor each, a single PROTAC molecule is able to tag a great many POIs, one after the other," Gap said. As such, the doses requiredand thus the number of potential side effectsare low.

More information: Mahshid Gazorpak et al, Harnessing PROTAC technology to combat stress hormone receptor activation, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44031-2 Journal information: Nature Communications
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Traveling by plane isn't always easy on the body. And neither is space travel. Astronauts often experience atrophy, the loss of bone and muscle, during their months living in space's zero gravity. People on Earth also tend to see their bones and muscles weaken as they age, increasing risk of injuries from falls.

Companies like Elon Musk's SpaceX and Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin are working to open space travel for more people.

And figuring out how to reduce atrophya condition that affects space explorers as well as senior citizens on Earthis on the mind of scientists.

At the University of Central Florida in Orlando, researchers are collaborating with biotech company Vaxxinity, which moved its headquarters from Texas to Cape Canaveral in Florida last year, to develop vaccines that can prevent and mitigate muscle and bone weakening, a common health problem for people experiencing long-term spaceflightand aging seniors.

The space medicine research will help researchers develop studies to assess the effects of Vaxxinity's immunotherapies on proteins in the body that could affect bone and muscle growth.

The goal? Create a vaccine that can help reduce muscle loss or help regain it in case of injury, immobility or space travel. This vaccine could help people on Earth and in space live a better and healthier life as they age, according to Dr. Melanie Coathup and Dr. Michal Masternak, professors who work in UCF's College of Medicine and involved in the collaboration.

If all goes well, human clinical trials for the vaccines could begin as early as 2025, said Lou Reese, co-founder and executive chairman of Vaxxinity, who is also a self-proclaimed "space dork."

"UCF was born as a university to support the space program, and the College of Medicine is continuing that mission, working to bring back to Earth the secrets that space medicine research can reveal," Dr. Deborah German, vice president for health affairs and dean of UCF's College of Medicine, said in a statement. "We look forward to collaborating with Vaxxinity on this research and applying their unique technology to benefit the aging population on our planet and future space travelers."

Research into how people can live longer and healthier lives as they age is becoming more important in the U.S., which is expected to see its population of people 85 and older triple by 2060.

Healthy aging research is also key to Florida's future, which has more than 5.5 million residents 60 and older, outnumbering the senior population of 20 other states combined, according to Florida's Department of Elder Affairs. Florida is second to California in people 60 and older.

By 2045, Florida is projected to have more than 8.4 million older adults, or more than 30% of the state's population, according to the department's 2022-2025 state plan on aging.

It's not surprising that a vaccine to help astronauts and seniors drew Florida's interest.

Besides Florida's large population of aging seniors, the Sunshine State also has a tourism-driven economy, which includes Mickey Mouse, beaches, and space. Florida is home to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, which every year sees more than 1.5 million visitors. People visit the center to learn more about space exploration, and if they're lucky, see a rocket launch, too.

Recently, SpaceX launched a private astronaut mission from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station. The mission is the third one organized by Houston company Axiom Space, and carried Axiom's first all-European crew, including Turkey's first astronaut Alper Gezeravc, Space.com reported.

A vaccine to help stop or reduce the deterioration of bone and muscle could also help further space exploration, too.

"It opens up a whole new opportunity for thinking and trying to work out what solutions can come from this ... and trying to learn as well because what happens in that extreme environment (space) is so different to what happens in Earth," Coathup said.

"We mentioned deep space exploration to Mars and a lot of people think, 'Oh, it's not possible.' Well you know, at the moment, I guess it isn't. But for me, there's an excitement to actually make that possible. What can we do? What are the barriers? And how can we potentially get through them?"

NASA is planning to send astronauts back to the moon, a mission planned for 2025. And if the U.S. wants to do longer space missions, such as to Mars, finding ways to reduce bone and muscle deterioration will be key in reducing some of the health strains of space, Masternak said.

"There's a lot of excitement from many people working in this sector in order to develop new discoveries that will push health for astronauts but also like we're saying we'll be able to deliver new discoveries for people on Earth as well," Coathup said.

Astronauts exercise for an average of two hours a day to reduce the bone and muscle deterioration caused by zero gravity, according to NASA. Without the exercise, the space agency says astronauts wouldn't be able to walk or stand up when they return to Earth months later.

A recent 2022 study of bone loss in 17 astronauts who flew aboard the International Space Station, with missions ranging from four to seven months, found that the astronauts experienced "significant bone loss" during six-month spaceflights. The astronauts exhibited 2.1% reduced bone mineral density in the tibia, one of the bones of the lower leg, and 1.3% reduced bone strength, according to Reuters.

The loss is what "we would expect to see in older adults over two decades on Earth, and they only recovered about half of that loss after one year back on Earth," University of Calgary professor Leigh Gabel, the lead author of the research published in the journal Scientific Reports, told Reuters. Nine of the astronauts didn't recover bone mineral density a year after their flight.

"Putting humans into this extreme environment (of space), it shows the kind of weak points of our body and by studying this we can also apply it to humans living on Earth," Masternak said. "So this combination of better understanding what's happening there can give us much quicker answers to some problems that we are getting here on Earth with our everyday living."

Reese, Vaxxinity's executive chairman, said the company wants to help "humanity prepare for the next millennia," and that this vaccine research is just part of the puzzle.

"If humanity is to become a space-faring species, solving fundamental problems related to space travel and living are table-stakes," Reese said.

"Vaxxinity is all-in on developing and commercializing these solutions, and working with the State of Florida and UCF, collectively, we strive to promote both healthy aging and ensure humanity can become multi-planetary, brave low gravity exposure, and be of the stars," Reese said. "The support for this research from the State of Florida exemplifies a commitment to pioneering solutions in the fields of space travel, as well as longevity and age-related diseases."

2024 Miami Herald. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Charity Watkins sensed something was deeply wrong when she experienced exhaustion after her daughter was born.

At times, Watkins, then 30, had to stop on the stairway to catch her breath. Her obstetrician said postpartum depression likely caused the weakness and fatigue. When Watkins, who is Black, complained of a cough, her doctor blamed the flu.

About eight weeks after delivery, Watkins thought she was having a heart attack, and her husband took her to the emergency room. After a 5-hour wait in a North Carolina hospital, she returned home to nurse her baby without seeing a doctor.

When a physician finally examined Watkins three days later, he immediately noticed her legs and stomach were swollen, a sign that her body was retaining fluid. After a chest X-ray, the doctor diagnosed her with heart failure, a serious condition in which the heart becomes too weak to adequately pump oxygen-rich blood to organs throughout the body. Watkins spent two weeks in intensive care.

She said a cardiologist later told her, "We almost lost you."

Watkins is among 12 million adults misdiagnosed every year in the U.S.

In a study published Jan. 8 in JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers found that nearly one in four hospital patients who died or were transferred to intensive care had experienced a diagnostic error. Nearly 18% of misdiagnosed patients were harmed or died.

In all, an estimated 795,000 patients a year die or are permanently disabled because of misdiagnosis, according to a study published in July in the BMJ Quality & Safety periodical.

Some patients are at higher risk than others.

Women and racial and ethnic minorities are 20% to 30% more likely than white men to experience a misdiagnosis, said David Newman-Toker, a professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the lead author of the BMJ study. "That's significant and inexcusable," he said.

Researchers call misdiagnosis an urgent public health problem. The study found that rates of misdiagnosis range from 1.5% of heart attacks to 17.5% of strokes and 22.5% of lung cancers.

Weakening of the heart musclewhich led to Watkins' heart failureis the most common cause of maternal death one week to one year after delivery, and is more common among Black women.

Heart failure "should have been No. 1 on the list of possible causes" for Watkins' symptoms, said Ronald Wyatt, chief science and chief medical officer at the Society to Improve Diagnosis in Medicine, a nonprofit research and advocacy group.

Maternal mortality for Black mothers has increased dramatically in recent years. The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed countries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, non-Hispanic Black mothers are 2.6 times as likely to die as non-Hispanic white moms. More than half of these deaths take place within a year after delivery.

Research shows that Black women with childbirth-related heart failure are typically diagnosed later than white women, said Jennifer Lewey, co-director of the pregnancy and heart disease program at Penn Medicine. That can allow patients to further deteriorate, making Black women less likely to fully recover and more likely to suffer from weakened hearts for the rest of their lives.

Watkins said the diagnosis changed her life. Doctors advised her "not to have another baby, or I might need a heart transplant," she said. Being deprived of the chance to have another child, she said, "was devastating."

Racial and gender disparities are widespread.

Women and minority patients suffering from heart attacks are more likely than others to be discharged without diagnosis or treatment.

Black people with depression are more likely than others to be misdiagnosed with schizophrenia.

Minorities are less likely than whites to be diagnosed early with dementia, depriving them of the opportunities to receive treatments that work best in the early stages of the disease.

Misdiagnosis isn't new. Doctors have used autopsy studies to estimate the percentage of patients who died with undiagnosed diseases for more than a century. Although those studies show some improvement over time, life-threatening mistakes remain all too common, despite an array of sophisticated diagnostic tools, said Hardeep Singh, a professor at Baylor College of Medicine who studies ways to improve diagnosis.

"The vast majority of diagnoses can be made by getting to know the patient's story really well, asking follow-up questions, examining the patient, and ordering basic tests," said Singh, who is also a researcher at Houston's Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. When talking to people who've been misdiagnosed, "one of the things we hear over and over is, "The doctor didn't listen to me.'"

Racial disparities in misdiagnosis are sometimes explained by noting that minority patients are less likely to be insured than white patients and often lack access to high-quality hospitals. But the picture is more complicated, said Monika Goyal, an emergency physician at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., who has documented racial bias in children's health care.

In a 2020 study, Goyal and her colleagues found that Black kids with appendicitis were less likely than their white peers to be correctly diagnosed, even when both groups of patients visited the same hospital.

Although few doctors deliberately discriminate against women or minorities, Goyal said, many are biased without realizing it.

"Racial bias is baked into our culture," Goyal said. "It's important for all of us to start recognizing that."

Demanding schedules, which prevent doctors from spending as much time with patients as they'd like, can contribute to diagnostic errors, said Karen Lutfey Spencer, a professor of health and behavioral sciences at the University of Colorado-Denver. "Doctors are more likely to make biased decisions when they are busy and overworked," Spencer said. "There are some really smart, well-intentioned providers who are getting chewed up in a system that's very unforgiving."

Doctors make better treatment decisions when they're more confident of a diagnosis, Spencer said.

In an experiment, researchers asked doctors to view videos of actors pretending to be patients with heart disease or depression, make a diagnosis, and recommend follow-up actions. Doctors felt far more certain diagnosing white men than Black patients or younger women.

"If they were less certain, they were less likely to take action, such as ordering tests," Spencer said. "If they were less certain, they might just wait to prescribe treatment."

It's easy to see why doctors are more confident when diagnosing white men, Spencer said. For more than a century, medical textbooks have illustrated diseases with stereotypical images of white men. Only 4.5% of images in general medical textbooks feature patients with dark skin.

That may help explain why patients with darker complexions are less likely to receive a timely diagnosis with conditions that affect the skin, from cancer to Lyme disease, which causes a red or pink rash in the earliest stage of infection. Black patients with Lyme disease are more likely to be diagnosed with more advanced disease, which can cause arthritis and damage the heart. Black people with melanoma are about three times as likely as whites to die within five years.

The COVID-19 pandemic helped raise awareness that pulse oximetersthe fingertip devices used to measure a patient's pulse and oxygen levelsare less accurate for people with dark skin. The devices work by shining light through the skin; their failures have delayed critical care for many Black patients.

Seven years after her misdiagnosis, Watkins is an assistant professor of social work at North Carolina Central University in Durham, where she studies the psychosocial effects experienced by Black mothers who survive severe childbirth complications.

"Sharing my story is part of my healing," said Watkins, who speaks to medical groups to help doctors improve their care. "It has helped me reclaim power in my life, just to be able to help others."

2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
While multiple campuses were a feature of some Institutes of Technology, the multi-campus approach is now a defining characteristic of the new Technological Universities. It is seen as fundamental to the delivery of the regional mission of our Technological Universities.
A snowmobiler was flown to a hospital Saturday after being injured in an avalanche southeast of Philipsburg, according to the Granite County Sheriff.

Sheriff Scott Dunkerson announced in an email Saturday that at 11:36 a.m. that day, "a snowmobiler had to be flown to an area hospital after injuries suffered after triggering an avalanche near Twin Peaks, northeast of Georgetown Lake."

In a phone call Monday, he said that a LifeFlight helicopter happened to be about five minutes away from the snowmobilers when they reported the avalanche. Sheriff's Office dispatch coordinated the response, he said, which included an off-duty Montana Highway Patrol officer and others who were already near the incident. But the helicopter quickly reached the injured person well before any additional ground-based personnel could have, he said.

He said that the group of riders in the incident were experienced and familiar with the risks of backcountry snowmobiling.

"These guys, they're not your average Joe in the backcountry," he said. "They know what they're doing."

Nonetheless, he said, "I kind of wanted to get word out to people that's it's not safe back there right now."

He wrote in Saturday's email that backcountry travelers "are encouraged to use extreme caution in the backcountry with recent heavy snow, creating unstable snow conditions."

The Twin Peaks formation is comprised of two adjacent peaks, separated by a saddle, rising to 9,067 feet and 8,977 feet elevation. It's about 8.25 miles southeast of Philipsburg and 9 miles northeast of Georgetown Lake. The peaks sit directly southeast of Fred Burr Lake reservoir.

The mountains in the area are not covered by an avalanche forecast center, but other forecast centers in western Montana and the Idaho Panhandle warned of elevated avalanche danger over the weekend and discouraged people from traveling on or below terrain steep enough to avalanche.

Montana has not had an avalanche fatality so far this winter. One person died in an avalanche in Montana last winter; three people died the winter before that. Anywhere from a dozen to nearly 40 people die in avalanches each winter in the U.S., most of them backcountry skiers, snowboarders or snowmobilers.

As of Monday, the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, which logs avalanche fatalities nationwide, reported three deaths in the U.S. so far this winter.

On Jan. 11, three skiers were caught and one died in an avalanche near Stevens Peak, Idaho, just a few thousand feet over the state line from Montana southwest of Lookout Pass.

On Jan. 10, an in-bounds avalanche at Palisades Tahoe resort in California killed one person. And on Jan. 14, one backcountry skier died in an avalanche in Wyoming's Prater Canyon, about 34 miles south-southwest of Jackson and near the state line with Idaho.

The spate of deaths, along with a slew of close calls like the Twin Peaks incident, came after a series of storms blanketed an unusually dry West that's lacked for snow this winter. The relative lack of snow across the West's mountains correlated with a slow start to avalanche fatalities. This is the first winter since 1992 that there were no U.S. avalanche fatalities before Jan. 1.
SAN FRANCISCO  Recently unredacted documents from New Mexico's lawsuit against Meta underscore the company's historical reluctance to keep children safe on its platforms, the complaint says.

New Mexico's Attorney General Raul Torrez sued Facebook and Instagram owner Meta in December, saying the company failed to protect young users from exposure to child sexual abuse material and allowed adults to solicit explicit imagery from them.

In the passages freshly unredacted from the lawsuit last week, internal employee messages and presentations from 2020 and 2021 show Meta was aware of issues such as adult strangers being able to contact children on Instagram, the sexualization of minors on that platform, and the dangers of its people you may know feature that recommends connections between adults and children. But Meta dragged its feet when it came to addressing the issues, the passages show.

Instagram, for instance, began restricting adults' ability to message minors in 2021. One internal document referenced in the lawsuit shows Meta scrambling in 2020 to address an Apple executive whose 12-year-old was solicited on the platform." According to the complaint, Meta knew that adults soliciting minors was a problem on the platform, and was willing to treat it as an urgent problem when it had to.

In a July 2020 document titled Child Safety  State of Play (7/20), Meta listed immediate product vulnerabilities that could harm children, including the difficulty reporting disappearing videos and confirmed that safeguards available on Facebook were not always present on Instagram.

At the time, Meta's reasoning was that it did not want to block parents and older relatives on Facebook from reaching out to their younger relatives, according to the complaint.

The report's author called the reasoning less than compelling and said Meta sacrificed children's safety for a big growth bet. In March 2021, though, Instagram announced it was restricting people over 19 from messaging minors.

In a July 2020 internal chat, meanwhile, one employee asked, What specifically are we doing for child grooming (something I just heard about that is happening a lot on TikTok)? The response from another employee was, Somewhere between zero and negligible. Child safety is an explicit non-goal this half (likely meaning half-year), according to the lawsuit.

In a statement, Meta said it wants teens to have safe, age-appropriate experiences online and has spent a decade working on these issues and hiring people who have dedicated their careers to keeping young people safe and supported online. The complaint mischaracterizes our work using selective quotes and cherry-picked documents.

Instagram also failed to address the issue of inappropriate comments under posts by minors, the complaint says. That's something former Meta engineering director Arturo Bejar recently testified about. Bejar, known for his expertise on curbing online harassment, recounted his own daughters troubling experiences with Instagram.

I appear before you today as a dad with firsthand experience of a child who received unwanted sexual advances on Instagram, he told a panel of U.S. senators in November. She and her friends began having awful experiences, including repeated unwanted sexual advances, harassment."

A March 2021 child safety presentation noted that Meta is underinvested in minor sexualization on (Instagram), notable on sexualized comments on content posted by minors. Not only is this a terrible experience for creators and bystanders, its also a vector for bad actors to identify and connect with one another. The documents underscore the social media giant's historical reluctance to institute appropriate safeguards on Instagram," the lawsuit says, even when those safeguards were available on Facebook.

Meta said it uses sophisticated technology, hires child safety experts, reports content to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and shares information and tools with other companies and law enforcement, including state attorneys general, to help root out predators.

Meta, which is based in Menlo Park, California, has been updating its safeguards and tools for younger users as lawmakers pressure it on child safety, though critics say it has not done enough. Last week, the company announced it will start hiding inappropriate content from teenagers accounts on Instagram and Facebook, including posts about suicide, self-harm and eating disorders.

New Mexico's complaint follows the lawsuit filed in October by 33 states that claim Meta is harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by knowingly and deliberately designing features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms.

For years, Meta employees tried to sound the alarm about how decisions made by Meta executives subjected children to dangerous solicitations and sexual exploitation, Torrez said in a statement. "While the company continues to downplay the illegal and harmful activity children are exposed to on its platforms, Metas internal data and presentations show the problem is severe and pervasive.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, along with the CEOs of Snap, Discord, TikTok and X, formerly Twitter, are scheduled to testify before the U.S. Senate on child safety at the end of January.

How to take a break from social media Be easy on yourself and ask for help about social media use Helpful exercise to remind you what you're missing by scrolling Use your phone's screen-time tracking feature and limit social media use Physically distance yourself from your phone and apps Benefits of taking a social media break Reevaluate what you want out of social media Two and a half hours.
An effort to expand opportunities to study international relations and foreign languages in eastern Montana has been buoyed by a $500,000 grant from the United States Department of Education.

The influx of funding makes possible the creation of what will be called the Yellowstone Consortium of International Studies and Foreign Languages. It will serve as an academic hub in a region that, until now, has offered only limited opportunities for undergraduate students to pursue these fields of study.

MSU Billings will act as home base for the project. The consortium includes four additional higher education institutions in Montana and Wyoming  Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming; Little Big Horn College in Crow Agency, Baaxawuaashe'; Dawson Community College in Glendive; and Miles Community College in Miles City. Paul Foster, the executive director of the Office of International Studies at MSUB, will oversee the grants use and the development of the consortium.

This grant is affirmation of the excellent work that MSUB has pursued in international engagement over the past decade, Foster said in a statement.

Those efforts include a growing population of international students  the number enrolled at the start of this academic year grew by nearly 29% compared with last year, representing 30 different countries  and the dispatch of more than 25 faculty to research and teach abroad in the last three years.

The Department of Educations International and Foreign Language Education office awarded the $500,000 to MSUB and the broader network of regional campuses. Rooted in recognition that an increasingly interconnected world demands more people enter the workforce with language skills and global relations experience, IFLE supports projects that advance these goals, especially among traditionally underserved students.

Already, MSUB has immersive language programs in Japan and Korea, and the hefty grant will open up these opportunities to more students in the surrounding areas. Many have been unable to access that kind of rigorous instruction to date. It will also appeal to students who want to achieve language proficiency in Mandarin with opportunities to study in China or Taiwan.

Beyond language, the grant will fund a global studies seminar on one of the five consortium members campuses each semester, and finance faculty travel and professional development so they can better teach courses to prepare graduates for a career in global relations.

These five campuses are some of the only in the western United States to receive this IFLE grant, demonstrating the important role the consortium could play in creating global studies and foreign language pathways for wide swaths of students in the region. There are four academic institutions in California, one in Washington, one in Colorado and one in New Mexico.
North Carolina Association of County Commissioners President and Burke County Commissioner Johnnie Carswell recently represented the county and state at a national convention and met with national lawmakers and international officials in Washington, D.C.

Carswell attended the National Association of Counties Presidents & Executives Meeting on Jan. 10-12.

Carswell helped kick off the meetings with opening remarks at the NACo Opioid Settlement Summit that united leaders from all levels of government, where leaders from across the United States explored how to effectively invest opioid settlement funds and strengthen the national response to the opioid overdose crisis, according to a release from the NCACC.

Carswell told them about how opioids impacted and devastated his family.

Thats why I want to make sure that you dont have to stand in front of a casket with your wife and bury your child. Parents dont bury children, Carswell told the conference.

He challenged them to think about the one more thing they can do to prevent and reduce overdoses, provide treatment and plan for the long-term care of those affected by the opioid crisis.

As president of the NCACC, Carswells presidential initiative is One More Thing to use opioid lawsuit settlement money to fight opioid addiction and substance use disorder. The initiative will bring together county leaders, subject matter experts and community organizations so that ideas, challenges and opportunities can be shared across counties and states, the release said.

In his short speech during the summit, Carswell went on to tell the leaders from across the U.S. that opioids and addiction is not just a county, state or national issue, but its a family issue.

Its for all of us at every level, and it is our collective responsibility to have these discussions and learning opportunities so that we can build and sustain healthy communities, Carswell said.

As part of the National Association of Counties Presidents & Executives Meeting, Carswell also attended interactive learning sessions with the George Washington Leadership Institute at Mount Vernon and met with national lawmakers representing North Carolina, including Sen. Thom Tillis, Sen. Ted Budd and Congressman Patrick McHenry to advocate for North Carolinas 100 counties and bring awareness to his One More Thing initiative, the release said.

We are so appreciative of Sen. Tillis, Sen. Budd, and Congressman McHenry for their leadership on important county issues  the opioid crisis, broadband deployment and mental health infrastructure, Carswell said in the release. Additionally, I would like to thank the North Carolina Department of Justice and NACo for our ongoing partnership. The One More Thing initiatives goal is to help counties strategically plan to use their opioid settlement funds effectively and in a way that makes sense for their communities and to highlight the importance of investing in combating the opioid overdose crisis.

Toward the end of the Burke County Board of Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Carswell told the board about the convention in Washington and said he was honored and humbled to represent the county and the state at the convention.

It was one of the greatest things thats ever happened to me in my life to go to Washington, D.C., Carswell said.

When he met with Tillis, Budd and McHenry, Carswell said they talked about financing for some projects in Burke County but didnt elaborate about what those projects are. He also attended a function at The White House and met several officials with President Joe Bidens administration.

I think I tried very hard to represent Burke County well, and I tried very hard to represent North Carolina well, and I think we actually did that, Carswell said.

He also attended a function at the British Ambassadors residence in Washington and got a library card from the Library of Congress.

To watch a video from the summit, visit https://bit.ly/47XpV1v.

For more information on the initiative and to review the One More Thing issue brief, visit https://bit.ly/4b0ra2v.
DEER LODGE  The Montana Community Foundation has announced that scholarships are now available from the Joseph and Evaline Kyle Scholarship Fund for Deer Lodge area students for the 2024-25 academic year.

Non-traditional students, such as adult and re-entry students, who demonstrate a financial need, permanently reside in Deer Lodge and are pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, academic or vocational degree are eligible to apply. Students must be attending a traditional or online program at an accredited institution on a full-time or part-time basis.

The scholarship fund was established with a surprise million-dollar gift to MCF from the estate of Evaline Kyle in 2020. Originally from Belington, West Virginia, she died in 2019. Her husband, Joseph, was from the Deer Lodge community and preceded her in death. As an endowed fund, the scholarship will assist students forever, and the Powell County Community Foundation assists with the grant process.

The Kyle Scholarship will award up to $8,000 per student (at least $2,000 each for up to four years) and multiple scholarships may be awarded each year. Students may apply online at mtcf.org/scholarships until March 31.

For details about this and other scholarship opportunities, visit the scholarship site or contact Elisa Fiaschetti at 406-441-4953 or scholarships@mtcf.org.
The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, in conjunction with Montana Resources and other Montana businesses, will award a total of $200,000 to support the Montana Folk Festival in 2024. This year, $100,000 will be awarded to the Montana Folk Festival, which must be matched by contributions from other Montana businesses.

If the Montana Folk Festival organizers meet this challenge and raise a matching amount of $100,000, said festival Director George Everett, the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation will then disperse another $100,000, making the total contribution $200,000 for this year.

Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation Executive Director Mike Halligan told The Standard that the matching ask has been met with ease each year of the festival's existence.

This years Montana Folk Festival will be July 12-14. It has become the largest free admission summer event in Montana. Since 2008, the foundation has been a major contributor to the festival and encourages Montana businesses to join in helping make the festival a sustainable annual event.

We want to see this event continue for the long term, and that is why we are doubling our support for this signature event, Halligan said.

Jack Standa, president of Montana Resources, said the 390 MR employees also help make the festival possible.

We are a leader in our industry, and we would like to be a leader as well in encouraging other businesses to support what has become a major economic and cultural event for our area, Standa said.

According to Everett, sponsorships that businesses consider to meet this challenge come with many benefits, including recognition for their support. These benefits are described in detail on the festival website at bit.ly/mffspo24 or by calling 406-565-2249.
A Muscatine resident recently had the chance to go to Guatemala for a second time to help build homes for families in need.

Janelle Wilson-DuSavage first went in August, 2013. Ten years later she had the chance to do it again, and while some aspects of it might have been slightly different, for her it was still just as rewarding as the first time around.

When I was down there 10 years ago, I absolutely fell in love with the service projects that we did, and when this opportunity came again in 2023/24, I jumped aboard and I was excited to go, Wilson-DuSavage said.

Reflecting on the first time she visited the country, Wilson-DuSavage explained that, through being a dental hygiene student at the time, she was able to learn about the opportunity through Lisa Hebl, who was both her clinical hygiene instructor as well as the treasurer and a founding member of the Guatemala Project, an Iowa City-based non-profit.

In-between each trip, the Guatemala Project collects donations of food, money and clothes to bring down with them. During the trip, the group of volunteers stays in Guatemala for two weeks, with four of these days being spent building a house by hand for a selected family.

Its a process. We basically start with the ground and make a foundation. We start laying cinderblocks about seven high to make the foundation, and then we lay a cement floor with tiles," Wilson-DuSavage said.

From there, she explained, they build the walls and roof of the home as well as a kitchen, with a bathroom then being built on afterwards.

It was a lot different (than last time). Theyve really refined the way that they build, she said. Being 10 years older, it was like wow, Im 40 and I can still do this.

She also noted that, unlike last time, the family they were building for also got to help with the building process, giving her and the others in her volunteer group more of a chance to get to know them while also giving the family a chance to feel the excitement and joy of putting together their new home.

It was just fun to play with the kids. I dont know any Spanish, so that made it difficult, but they knew some English and were telling us thank you, thank you for building my home, Wilson-DuSavage said. Hearing that is the part that always gets me. You never realize how fortunate you have it until you go to a third-world country.

Asked about her favorite parts of the trip, beyond getting the chance to enjoy the countrys spectacular sights and natural scenery within its parks, Wilson-DuSavage shared the most memorable part of the experience came after she and the other volunteers had finished building the house, when they finally got to hand the keys of the home over to the family they built it for.

The family that I built for had two children, and the daughter was just beside herself. She was crying and was just so overwhelmed with happiness at us giving her and her family a future, she said before then joking, I like to be that stoic person who doesnt cry, so I quote-unquote had sawdust in my eye during that moment.

But for as much as she as enjoyed these trips herself, Wilson-DuSavage said that she also hoped that her participating in them inspired her daughter to one day do the same.

Im trying to get her to realize that going down to Guatemala or any third-world country and taking your time out of your busy schedule to help others is important, she said. Im a dental hygienist, so I always want to help people through dentistry. But going to Guatemala, Im using my hands and my body to help serve those people, and Im also trying to get my daughter to see that lifes not all about social media and having monetary things. You can find enjoyment, peace and solitude in nature and other communities.

With her daughter already showing a growing interest in being part of the groups efforts, Wilson-DuSavage added she hopes to bring her daughter down to Guatemala and give her a similar experience within the next couple years.

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Registration is open for Muscatine Community School District's incoming preschool class.

Since beginning the registration process last week, Principal Jessi Freers said the district has seen a large increase in preschool registrations.

We've been excited to see the registration numbers so high this year, Freers said. As of (Thursday), we've had over 150 registrations since opening the process on Monday. This is up by around 40 registrations at this time last year.

Asked why she felt the registration numbers were increasing so much, one speculation Freers had was on the Muskie Early Learning Centers new online registration process and families becoming more comfortable and confident in using it to complete the process from the comfort of their own homes.

Another point that Freers gave was the preschools place within the community and the reputation that its gained since first opening.

Finishing up our fifth year as an early learning center, we are now established as a place where families are familiar and comfortable coming into the building, knowing we are more than happy to support them in completing the process, she said.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 school year, Freers said she and her staff are determined to provide each of their new students with access to a quality preschool program. This includes the continued offering of its recently added Dual Language Program, where students have the opportunity to learn both English and Spanish.

Additionally, the school is going to be piloting a new option for families: a half-day program for 4-year-olds as opposed to a full-day program, which some young students might not be ready for.

This addition helps to provide a few more spots as well give us some more programming options to meet every child's needs, Freers said.

Finally, through its partnership with local and statewide voluntary preschool programs such as Wonder Years Preschool, HeadStart, Guardian Angel Preschool and A Child's Place Preschool, MCSD hopes to help ensure as many open spots for incoming preschool students as possible.

Those wishing to register their child for preschool with the Muskie Early Learning Center will need to provide their childs birth certificate (or any document showing name/date of birth), with this needing to be on file by March 15, as well as an updated immunization and physical record, which will need to be provided before the childs first day of school.

Those who are interested in registering for the PK4 Dual Language Program specifically can do so online at http://tinyurl.com/PKDLIP2425. Registration forms for this program will need to be completed by April 26. For additional questions regarding the Muskie Early Learning Centers preschool programs, residents can call 563-263-4998 or email michelle.jarrett@mcsdonline.org.

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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:
NEW YORK  New York prosecutors have returned two pieces of art they say were stolen by Nazis from a Jewish performer and collector murdered in the Holocaust.

The artworks were surrendered by museums in Pittsburgh and Ohio, but prosecutors are still fighting in court to recover a third artwork by the same artist, Austrian expressionist Egon Schiele, that was seized from a Chicago museum at the same time.

On Friday in Manhattan, the estate of Holocaust victim Fritz Grunbaum accepted Portrait of a Man, which was surrendered by the Carnegie Museum of Art and "Girl with Black Hair, surrendered by the Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College. Prosecutors have collectively valued the two pieces at around $2.5 million.

Ten of Schiele's works have now been returned to the family, but Russian War Prisoner remains at the Art Institute of Chicago, which maintains that it was legally acquired.

Grunbaum was the son of a Jewish art dealer and law school student who began performing in cabarets in Vienna in 1906. As the Nazis rose to power, he mocked them, once saying on a darkened stage, I cant see a thing, not a single thing; I must have stumbled into National Socialist culture.

In 1938, he was captured by Nazi officials, who created a trail of paperwork. Manhattan prosecutors say they forced him to give power of attorney to his wife, and then forced her to sign away the art  including around 80 Schiele works  to Nazi officials. Some of the art was sold to fund the Nazi war effort, they say. Elizabeth and Fritz Grunbaum died in concentration camps.

Prosecutors say the works reappeared in 1956 in Switzerland, part of a shady art deal with members of the Nazi regime, that led to them being sold in New York galleries.

On Friday, one of Grunbaum's heirs thanked leaders at Oberlin College and the Carnegie Institute, saying they did the right thing.

This is a victory for justice, and the memory of a brave artist, art collector, and opponent of Fascism, said Timothy Reif, Grunbaums great-grandnephew and a federal judge in New York City, in a statement released by the office of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. As the heirs of Fritz Grunbaum, we are gratified that this man who fought for what was right in his own time continues to make the world fairer.

A New York judge ruled in 2018 that other two works by Schiele had to be turned over to Grunbaums heirs under the Holocaust Expropriated Recovery Act, passed by Congress.

In that case, art dealer Richard Nagy said he was the rightful owner of the works because Grunbaums sister-in-law had sold them after his death. But the judge in the case ruled that there was no evidence that Grunbaum had given them to her voluntarily, writing it was a signature at gunpoint.

The Art Institute of Chicago, however, disputes that. And it argues that Russian War Prisoner, a pencil and watercolor piece, was legally acquired.

We have done extensive research on the provenance history of this work and are confident in our lawful ownership of the piece, said Art Institute of Chicago spokesperson Megan Michienzi.

Michienzi pointed to a prior 2010 ruling from another federal judge that she said explicitly ruled that the Grunbaums Schiele art collection was not looted and remained in the Grunbaum familys possession and was sold by Fritz Grunbaums sister-in-law.

Reif and his relatives had been fighting in a separate federal civil court case for the return of the work. The Art Institute of Chicago had the case thrown out in November on technical grounds, successfully arguing that, unlike the Nagy case, the family had missed a lawsuit deadline under the Holocaust Expropriated Recovery Act.

After that case was dismissed, Braggs office earlier this month asked a Manhattan court to authorize the return of the artwork.
UNITED NATIONS  Women and children are the main victims of the Gaza war, with some 16,000 killed and an estimated two mothers losing their lives every hour since Hamas surprise attack on Israel, the U.N. agency promoting gender equality said.

As a result of the more than 100-day conflict, UN Women added, at least 3,000 women may have become widows and heads of households and at least 10,000 children may have lost their fathers.

In a report released Friday, the agency pointed to gender inequality and the burden on women fleeing the fighting with children and being displaced again and again. Of the territorys 2.3 million population, it said, 1.9 million are displaced and close to one million are women and girls seeking shelter and safety.

UN Womens executive director, Sima Bahous, said this is a cruel inversion of fighting during the 15 years before the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. Previously, she said, 67% of all civilians killed in Gaza and the West Bank were men and less then 14% were women.

She echoed U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate release of all hostages taken captive in Israel on Oct. 7.

However much we mourn the situation of the women and girls of Gaza today, we will mourn further tomorrow without unrestricted humanitarian assistance and an end to the destruction and killing, Bahous said in a statement accompanying the report.

These women and girls are deprived of safety, medicine, health care, and shelter. They face imminent starvation and famine. Most of all they are deprived of hope and justice, she said.

The health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says nearly 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, 70% of them women and children. The United Nations says more than a half million people in Gaza  a quarter of the population  are starving.

In Israel, around 1,200 people were killed during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war, and some 250 people were taken hostage by militants. More than 100 hostages are believed to still be held captive in Gaza.

Bahous said UN Women had heard shocking accounts of unconscionable sexual violence during the attacks by Hamas, and she echoed U.N. calls for accountability, justice and support for all those affected.

Despite escalating hostilities in Gaza, the agency said women-led and womens rights organizations continue to operate. It found that 83% of womens organizations surveyed in the Gaza Strip are at least partially operational, mainly focusing on the emergency response to the war.

But UN Women said its analysis of funding from las years flash appeal for Gaza found that just 0.09% of funding went directly to national or local womens rights organizations.

Bahous said there is a need for much more aid to get to Gaza, especially to women and children, and for an end to the war.

This is a time for peace, she said. We owe this to all Israeli and Palestinian women and girls. This is not their conflict. They must no longer pay its price.

Israel-Hamas war at 100 days
In a crackdown, police in Kitengela arrested 20 boda boda riders on Friday on allegations of attacking a female motorist and causing severe damage to her vehicle.

On Thursday, an incident that went viral on social media showcased dozens of boda boda riders attacking the motorist and her male passenger, subsequently causing extensive damage to their vehicle in broad daylight.

The riders were also captured on video stealing personal belongings amidst the chaos before the two victims were rescued by police officers.

The incident was reported at Kitengela Police Station under OB No 98/18/01/2024. According to the police report, the Nissan Juke vehicle with registration number KDG 265E, driven by Ms. Conex Kemuto, collided with a motorcycle carrying a rider and pillion passenger Felix Delorie as they were traveling from Athi River to Kitengela.

Mr. Delorie sustained injuries to his lower right leg, head, and back.

The motorist then sped off towards Namanga through the Arusha service lane and hit Mr Bernard Mutinda and his son four-year-old son Hashley Baraka, reads the police report
In the Jua Kali area of Uasin Gishu County, police shot and killed two suspected robbers during a joint intelligence-led operation.

Authorities believe the suspects are part of a gang that has been terrorizing residents in Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, and Kakamega counties.

During the sting operation, detectives from Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu counties also recovered a pistol stolen from former minister Noah Wekesas residence in Kitale in December 2023.

RELATED  Former Minister Noah Wekesa Robbed of Gun, Cash While Asleep

The robbery suspects, sought for acts of robbery with violence at Chukura and Mois Bridge police stations, were pursued to a flat in Cheramei Centre.

According to police reports, officers instructed the suspects to surrender, but they resisted and opened gunfire at the officers from the window of their flat.

A shootout occurred, resulting in the death of one identified suspect, John Mukhwana Muhila, and another unidentified adult male.

The detectives recovered bullets, a motorcycle, a mobile phone, and an assortment of tools used for housebreaking.

Francis Kihara, the Criminal Investigations Officer for Trans Nzoia County, reported that a total of 13 bullets were discharged during the incident.

We believe the pistol recovered is that which was stolen from Noah Wekesa and a mobile phone stolen from Mois Bridge last night in a robbery incident, he told the Nation.
During a thanksgiving service in Busia County on Sunday, President William Ruto warned education officials who extort money from parents by falsely claiming that the government has not yet disbursed education funds.

Ruto mentioned that he is aware of the unethical practices adopted by some school heads who demand parents to pay school fees, even though it has already been covered by the government.

The President stated that the government has allocated Ksh.60 billion in capitation to all learning institutions nationwide, along with Ksh.10 billion in bursaries, enabling students to access education across the nation.

Hear this from me because these people will stop this ill behaviour because the government has disbursed the moneyI want to tell those managers in the education sector not to take advantage of parents on false accounts of the government having released no money, said Ruto.

We have released Ksh.62 billion to our primary and secondary schools, Universities, TVET institutions, including Ksh.10 billion in bursaries to our MPs so that even children from vulnerable families can go to school.

Affirming the governments commitment to enhancing access to education nationwide, Ruto mentioned that his administration has augmented the number of teachers in various institutions, with plans to add even more.

We have employed new 56,000 teachers to teach our children. This week 2,000 teachers will be employed into TVETs because we know the importance of education and we want every child to be educated to create equality, Ruto noted.
Prosecutors released a Shakahola survivor who appeared in court with a two-month-old baby born in isolation.

The woman, identified only by the initials FM, is now at Port Reitz Sub-county Hospital in Mombasa, where she is hospitalized on suspicion of mental illness. She was one of 66 people rescued in May 2023 from the Shakahola forest where controversial cultist Paul Mackenzie radicalized followers of his Good News International Church into fasting to death.

The state stated that she is not being treated as a suspect because initial medical reports suggest she is not mentally stable enough to stand trial.

We no longer consider her a suspect. We urge for a review of her mental status before considering her release to the family, stated Assistant Director of Public Prosecution Jami Yamina.

The State Prosecutor asserted that the state is dedicated to ensuring the womans mental stability before taking any steps, including considering her as a state witness.

The woman stunned the court when she appeared with an infant on Friday. She spent most of the morning in a holding area inside the court precinct before being brought into the courtroom along with others.

The court was informed that the baby was born two months earlier in Shimo La Tewa Womens Remand Prison, suggesting that the woman may have conceived in the Shakahola forest and given birth while in detention.

The case is scheduled to be mentioned on February 8.
Jury selection for a Pope Valley man accused of sexually abusing students at the rural Napa County school where he worked began Monday.

Benjamin Casas, 34, faces charges of abusing three girls and two boys between 2013 and 2017, when the victims were younger than 15 and he worked for the Pope Valley Elementary School.

Opening statements are expected to begin midweek, according to prosecution and defense attorneys.

Casas was arrested Oct. 1, 2022 at his Pope Valley home and has been held since then without bail in the Napa County Jail.

The office of District Attorney Allison Haley has filed 23 counts of sexual abuse against Casas. Individual charges carry state prison terms of one to 10 years, but prosecutors earlier said a clause covering the abuse of children younger 14 could result in a sentence of 25 years to life.

Court documents allege Casas abused his victims both on and off school grounds, but a Jan. 15 prosecution filing included further details  and stated that Casas had been investigated for his behavior at least four times since 2010.

A statement filed by the district attorneys office alleges that a boy told his parents of two incidents involving Casas from October to December 2015. In the first incident, Casas hugged the boy without his consent; in the second, Casas slid his hand on the boys leg, the filing states.

Later, in 2018, a St. Helena High School student told an administrator that Casas had molested him  including kissing and fondling. The conduct had occurred for several years while the student attended the Pope Valley school from about the fifth to eighth grades, prosecutors alleged in their filing.

The Napa County Sheriffs Office investigated the matter and interviewed Casas, who denied the claims but admitted that the Pope Valley school had placed him on leave in 2016 for making sexual jokes to children. He also admitted to hugging the boy involved in the 2015 incident, according to the prosecution filing.

In May 2022, a female caller to the sheriffs office  a sister of the St. Helena high schooler  reported she and Casas had had sexual intercourse several times when she was underage, both on the Pope Valley campus and at her home when he was giving her music lessons, prosecutors stated.

During that period, she communicated with Casas on Facebook, where he used the alias Justin Smith, and 189 text messages between the two were later found on her cellphone, the filing states.

Eight days after Casas arrest, another accuser, a cousin of Casas wife, told the sheriffs office that Casas had kissed her on one occasion and tried to touch her genitals on another in 2013, when the girl was 9, according to the prosecution filing.

After the girl told her mother and sister of the incidents a few years later, the mother warned Casas mother-in-law to keep him away from her children, but the family did not report the incidents to authorities out of concern for their immigration status, the filing added.

Another female accuser alleged that Casas inappropriately touched her numerous times from her second-grade to sixth-grade years. The touching took place at family gatherings at her grandparents house, when Casas would pretend to tickle her while actually fondling her, the prosecution filing stated.

The earliest investigation into Casas took place in 2010, after a family therapist told Calistoga Police that a couple had told him of explicit text messages a then 20-year-old Casas had sent their 13-year-old son, according to the filing. (The parents chose not to put their son through an interview, and the district attorneys office never investigated the case, the report stated.)

Casas worked at the Pope Valley school, which teaches just over 50 students from kindergarten to eighth grade, until at least April 2019, according to archived versions of the school website.

The arrest of Casas and news of the allegations led to an outcry among Pope Valley school parents, who demanded to know why school officials had not told them about the allegations earlier.

Four days after the arrest, board members at the one-school district in rural northern Napa County called an emergency meeting, where parents attacked officials for lax oversight and for letting Casas visit the campus even after leaving the staff.

Ken Burkhart, the Pope Valley school principal between 2015 and 2022, told the Napa Valley Register shortly after Casas arrest that the sheriffs office advised him in 2019 to put Casas on leave but refused to tell him why, leaving the school unable to inform parents about the case.

However, sheriffs spokesperson Henry Wofford disputed that account and said Burkhart himself was the first to report suspicions about Casas behavior to law enforcement. Authorities did not act earlier because they lacked enough evidence for criminal charges at the time, Wofford said.

Photos: Napa Valley Faces and Places, January 20, 2024
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Yemeni gov't warns Houthis against military escalation in Red Sea

Xinhua) 09:03, January 22, 2024

ADEN, Yemen, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) of Yemen convened an emergency meeting on Sunday to address the deteriorating security situation in the country and the military escalation by the Houthi forces.

According to a statement released by the state-run Saba news agency, the council warned the Houthis against the consequences of intensifying attacks, targeting civilian sites, and undermining peace efforts.

Government sources said that recent days have seen Houthi mobilization and repositioning of fighters, vehicles, and weapons on various fronts of the war-ravaged Arab country.

The statement praised "the preparedness of Yemeni armed forces and popular resistance groups defending the country's state institutions and countering the Houthi aggression."

The PLC also reviewed the potential impacts on global shipping and trade from repeated Houthi attacks in territorial waters, expressing hope that international unity would strengthen Yemen's capabilities to protect its waters and sovereignty.

Observers said that the PLC's meeting signals heightened tensions and a potential return to active fighting between the Houthi group and pro-government forces.

The Houthis have been engaged in a civil war against the government since 2014, causing a massive humanitarian crisis. Despite Saudi-led efforts to restore the internationally recognized government, the conflict remains deadlocked.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
NATO on Monday will start its biggest military exercises in recent decades.

About 90,000 people from all NATO member states and candidate country Sweden will participate in the Steadfast Defender 2024 military exercises.

The exercises will continue until the end of May, and will cover the European territoryfrom Norway to Romania.

The scenario of the Steadfast Defender exercises is an allied attack on Russian territory, which will implement Article 5 of the NATO Treaty on Collective Defense, dpa reported.

Until now, the Trident Juncture was considered the largest NATO military exercise in recent decades, in which more than 50,000 military personnel participated in 2018. The last such exercises were carried out by NATO in 1988, deploying more than 125,000 soldiers.

General Christopher G. Cavoli, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, said that the Steadfast Defender will demonstrate that NATO can carry out complex operations on land, at sea, in the air, in cyberspace, and in space.

And according to Robert Peter Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, such scale of these military exercises is a demonstration of the alliance's new preparedness.
Most of the problematic issues with Russian companies regarding armaments have been mostly settled, but a number of issues remain unresolved. The Ministry of Defense (MoD) of Armenia stated this in response to a written question by the RFE/RL Armenian Service, but without clarifying whether it is about supplies made within the scope of $400 million.

After the second Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) war in 2020, the Armenian authorities were complainingat the highest levelthat they had transferred millions of dollars to Russia to receive weapons, but did not receive any weapons.

Meanwhile, the Russian ambassador to Armenia, Sergey Kopyrkin, had claimed a month ago that practically all the agreements signed between Yerevan and Moscow in technico-military cooperation were completed on time.

And the members of Armenias ruling majority faction in parliament only recently informed that Russia was already making military supplies. Gagik Melkonyan, a member of the Standing Committee on Defense and Security of the National Assembly, had told the RFE/RL Armenian Service about a week ago that a batch of Russian weapons was already in Armenia.
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) plans to limit the powers of the delegation of Azerbaijan for the latters violating this organization's principles. Several sources familiar with the preparation of such a decision informed the European Pravda correspondent in Strasbourg, France, about this.

A fundamental decision to launch restrictions for Azerbaijan has already been made at the level of the PACE Presidential Committee. In the afternoon, with the start of the plenary session, the PACE lawmakers officially start this procedureand most likely with the official initiative of the representative of Germany.

The official complaint against Azerbaijan will be that the PACE observers were not invited to monitor the countrys snap presidential elections to be held in February.

There is also a complaint that Azerbaijan constantly faces criticism from the Council of Europe (CoE) and its bodies, and in 2017 a special procedure of political penalty against the country began. Then, under the pressure of Strasbourg, the Azerbaijani authorities released the opposition politician Ilgar Mammadov from prison.

But in 2022, there were already hints at the PACE about removing Azerbaijan from the CoE.
On the first day of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) winter session in Strasbourg, France, the MPs voted to limit the powers of the Azerbaijani delegation "for the country's violation of the principles of the organization." This initiative was made by German lawmaker Frank Schwabe, Turan news agency reported.

In his statement, Schwabe noted the ongoing human rights violations and the growing number of political prisoners in Azerbaijan, the refusal of Baku to invite the PACE delegation to evaluate the upcoming snap presidential elections on February 7.

He also mentioned Azerbaijan's refusal to allow PACE rapporteurs into the Lachin corridor in 2023.

The proposal was put to the vote and adopted by a majority vote.

The chairman of the meeting, Emanuelis Zingeris, said that the PACE Monitoring Committee would assess this proposal. It has 24 hours to submit its opinion. After that, PACE will discuss this matter and make a final decision.

The Azerbaijani delegation, however, cannot participate in the voting on this matter.
Astronauts will arrive in Armenia this year and prepare for flights to Mars. Areg Mickaelian, Director of the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory of Armenia, announced this at a press conference Monday.

He added that a respective film will be made, and research is also planned.

The Austrian Space Forum plans to hold a simulation, named AMADEE-24, in Armenia this March. During this simulation, astronauts will prepare for flights to Mars.

Mickaelian said that visits to the Byurakan observatory in 2023 provided more than 27 million drams in income.

"Only giving salaries is not enough to keep science at a high level. We need money for research trips, acquire equipment, and much more. Approximately 82% of the budget is spent on salaries and 18%on other needs. The salaries of [Armenias] scientists have been increased, but other employees of scientific institutions still receive approximately 120,000 drams per month," said the director of the Byurakan observatory.

He added that 193 foreign guests visited the observatory last year, which did not happen even in the best years of the Soviet period, and 47 seminars were held during the past 6-7 years, in which Nobel laureates also participated.

Also, Mickaelian stressed that all of Armenia's neighbors are focusing on the development of this sector.
Emory University and the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic signed a long-term agreement of cultural cooperation on Jan. 22, which includes more educational opportunities for students and the return to the Greek ministry of three objects in the collection of the Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory.

Lina Mendoni, the Minister of Culture for the Hellenic Republic, traveled to Atlanta Monday to tour the Carlos Museum and meet with Emory leaders. Mendoni and Ravi V. Bellamkonda, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Emory, signed the agreement, which pledges a spirit of goodwill to work together to further advance knowledge of Greek culture, while also protecting Greek cultural heritage. The museum and Ministry remain in ongoing dialogue about collaboration on future projects.

Under the agreement, the Carlos Museum will voluntarily transfer a Minoan larnax, a Classical sculpture of a seated man and a sculpture of a muse. The decision to return the objects follows discussions between Emory and the Ministry over the past two years and supports the museums ongoing study of the provenance of objects in its collections and its commitment to resolve official claims on its collections.

Information shared by the Ministry indicated that the objects were included as evidence in court cases related to antiquities trafficking in Greece. The new provenance histories challenge what was known about the pieces at the time the museum acquired them.

The Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic welcomes the decision of the Carlos Museum to return three ancient artifacts from its collections to the Greek people, as it has been well documented that they had been illegally exported from Greece, Mendoni said.

Todays repatriation will become the starting point for close cultural cooperation in the coming years between the Ministry of Culture of the Hellenic Republic and Emory University, Mendoni continued. We hope that other museums abroad will follow the example of the Carlos Museum, which has sought to solve the problem through dialogue and a spirit of cooperation.

The agreement between the Ministry and Emory will create more opportunities for Emory students, faculty and staff to participate in excavations in Greece. Emory students and staff have dug at sites such as Samothrace and the Agora in Athens.

Emory University is proud of our long-standing commitment to being one of the foremost advocates for Greek culture in the southeast United States, Bellamkonda said. On behalf of the university, I thank the minister for her work in developing this agreement. It is historic. It is important. And it signals a sincere intent to deepen relations and collaborate on our shared missions of studying, sharing and protecting Greek culture, and doing so to the highest ethical and academic standards.

The agreement provides the opportunity for the Carlos Museum to partner with museums in Greece on the loan of objects and the creation of new exhibitions for Emory and the larger community of Atlanta.

Todays event is just the beginning, and the Carlos Museums looks forward to many years of expanded cultural cooperation between the Ministry and Emory, said Henry S. Kim, associate vice provost and director of the Carlos Museum. We are honored to be part of efforts to protect and preserve cultural heritage in Greece and around the world.

Learn more about provenance research at the Carlos Museum and the three objects included in the Jan. 22 cultural cooperation agreement.
Gregory D. DeYong is an SIU Carbondale associate professor of operations management. (Photo by Russell Bailey)

SIU logistics expert: Unrest near Suez Canal may impact supply chain, prices

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and threats of war in the Suez Canal area are already being felt around the world and could have major impacts on shipping and global trade. The bottom line is that supply chain disruptions, product shortages or price increases may be the result, said Gregory D. DeYong, a Southern Illinois University Carbondale associate professor of operations management.

He noted that the Suez Canal carries about 12% of all global trade with most of that cargo coming in containers.

That means it is heavily skewed to consumer products, he said. About 30% of the worlds global container traffic uses the Suez Canal with the vast majority of the shipments coming from southeast Asia to Europe. Unfortunately, alternatives for these shipments involve long detours, possibly through equally risky routes.

Media availability

Gregory D. DeYong, associate professor of operations management at SIU Carbondale, can be reached at gdeyong@siu.edu.

Yemens Houthi group has launched attacks on commercial ships at the southern end of the Red Sea in recent weeks, causing several shipping companies to divert vessels, avoiding routes that would take them through Egypts Suez Canal, even though the 120-mile canal is the quickest sea route between Asia and Europe. The Houthis say they are supporting the Palestinians as Israel and Hamas wage war.

DeYong said all of the alternative routes are more time-consuming and expensive, including:

The Northern Sea Route along the north coast of Asia and Europe.

Over land through Siberia, Russia and Eastern Europe, mainly via rail.

Using the North American Landbridge across Asia, the U.S. and Europe.

The Cape Route, going south around the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Agulhas at the southern edge of Africa.

Of course, all of these options have serious disadvantages, he said. The Northern Sea Route is frequently blocked by ice, especially in the dead of winter. Land routes through Russia are threatened by the Ukraine-Russia conflict and are time-consuming and limited in capacity. The North American Landbridge is also time-consuming and depends upon access to very busy United States ports. This really leaves the Cape Route as the predominant option.

But, that option comes at a big cost, he said. Oil prices and war-risk insurance premiums have already spiked.

The usual trip via the Suez Canal takes about 11 days. Add about two more weeks to the timeline to go around Africa.

That is bad in terms of costs  fuel, shipping and everything will be roughly double. But what is worse is the impact on the global shipping capacity, DeYong said. Effectively, this also doubles the shipping capacity required for Asia-Europe shipments, and that would have a major impact on global container capacity, effectively tying up an additional 30% of the global container capacity traffic.

At this time, he said, there is an excess container capacity of about 10-15% globally, so this hasnt been an issue yet, but if the instability in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal continues, the Suez disruption could consume this excess capacity and then some. The bottom line for consumers and businesses is that the low container rates weve been experiencing for the past year or so could quickly disappear. Worse yet, if the conflict in the Red Sea area continues or becomes more active, there could be a shortage of container space, leading to shipping delays, shortages and higher prices. Since we live in a global economy, the problems in the Middle East can be felt here as well.

In addition, a severe drought caused by a strong El Nino climate pattern has seriously threatened the Panama Canal, forcing the Panama Canal Authority to restrict the number of ships which passage through the canal daily from 36 to 24. It will further be reduced to 18 next month. DeYong said that although some of todays new ships are too large for the Panama Canal, this is still another disruption to the worlds supply chain.

DeYong has personal experience as well as professional knowledge in supply chain management. Before becoming a faculty member, he worked as an import/export manager where he was responsible for about $100 million in products annually. DeYong is currently working to establish a Center for Supply Chain Management and Logistics within SIUs College of Business and Analytics.
NewsVoir Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 20: Pollachi, a town on the brink of transformative development, is eagerly awaiting the completion of the Dindigul-Pollachi four-lane road (NH - 209), a project set to redefine both its infrastructure and real estate dynamics. With an estimated cost of Rs 3,649 crore and a total length of 131.9 km, the road is a beacon of progress, expected to be fully operational by 2024. Phased Progress and Connectivity Boost Divided into three phases-Kamalapuram to Oddanchatram, Oddanchatram to Madathukulam, and Madathukulam to Pollachi--the project is progressing at an impressive rate. While the first phase nears completion, the subsequent phases, each over 50% done, are poised for launch in late 2024. The road's strategic positioning is not only set to streamline the movement of trade container lorries but also promises enhanced accessibility for local tourists and travelers heading to Madurai and Rameswaran. Impact on Commercial Developments: The establishment of the Dindigul-Pollachi road is a harbinger of substantial growth in commercial developments along its route. * Malls and Shopping Complexes: Proximity to the road is expected to attract the establishment of malls and shopping complexes, catering to the increased footfall from improved connectivity. * Educational Institutions: The surge in population and accessibility will likely prompt the development of schools and colleges, addressing the educational needs of the growing community. * Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and healthcare centers are anticipated to emerge, ensuring the well-being of the expanding population. Residential Developments and Land Appreciation As commercial developments thrive, the residential real estate market in Pollachi is also poised for a significant upswing. Areas connected to the road network are expected to become prime locations for residential developments due to enhanced accessibility and upcoming improved infrastructure. The trend which has already seen massive success and prominence in Coimbatore is now seeing a spread in Pollachi as well. In conclusion, the completion of the Dindigul-Pollachi four-lane road is not merely a transportation milestone but a catalyst for holistic development. The burgeoning commercial establishments, coupled with flourishing residential developments, are set to redefine Pollachi's real estate landscape. As organized plotted developments gain momentum, the town is poised for significant growth, offering a harmonious blend of modern living spaces and enhanced infrastructure. Pollachi, with its strategic road network, is on the cusp of becoming a real estate hub, beckoning investors and residents alike to be a part of its promising future. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 22: Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, proudly welcomes Dr. Ranganathan Jothi as the Director of Neurosciences to Kauvery Group of Hospitals. He is a distinguished neurosurgeon with more than three decades of experience and will be leading the Neurology team at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani.

Dr. Ranganathan Jothi excels in diverse neurosurgical procedures, including brain surgeries (tumor resection, aneurysm interventions), trauma surgeries, and spinal procedures. His specialization extends to paediatric neurosurgery, functional neurosurgery, peripheral nerve surgeries, tumor surgeries, and vascular neurosurgery, providing comprehensive care for a range of neurological conditions.

Joining Dr. Ranganathan Jothi is his team of highly skilled Anaesthetists, Dr R.J. Abhinaya, Consultant - Neuro Anaesthesia, and Dr S. Soundarapandian, Senior Consultant - Neuro Anaesthesia. Together, they bring in a new era of cutting-edge neurosurgery at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani.

"We extend a warm welcome to Dr. Ranganathan Jothi to Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani. I am confident that their wealth of experience and expertise will contribute to the advancement of neurological care at our hospital. Our promise is to provide world-class care with a focus on patient well-being and we are elated to introduce a dedicated team of experts specialising in advanced neurosurgical techniques", said Dr. Aravindan Selvaraj, Co-founder and Executive Director of Kauvery Group Hospitals.

Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, a premier healthcare institution dedicated to delivering exceptional and compassionate medical care, focuses on patient - centric care. Offering a variety of specialities, the addition of Dr. Ranganathan Jothi and his team of Anesthetists is a step towards positioning itself as a centre for neurological excellence.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
As the Kumbabhishekam ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya took centre stage on Monday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed her gratitude to the Madras High Court for ruling in favour of televising the event. Speaking to reporters, Sitharaman also stressed the BJP's commitment to taking legal actions in response to any challenges. The ceremony, symbolising the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ran Lalla and the grand opening of the Ayodhya temple, made waves not just in the temple town but across the world. The spiritual council and BJP functionaries were directed to arrange live broadcasts of the Kumbabhishekam in various temples and private wedding halls, enabling a global audience to witness the sacred event. Sitharaman actively participated in organising the event in the Kanchipuram district, rallying BJP cadres, the public, and devotees to contribute to the event's success. However, the authorities initially sought to restrict the live broadcast, with the police advising against it in the early hours of the day. Subsequently, however, the high court intervened as it issued an order clarifying that no police permission was required for such functions at private temples and marriage halls. "Not only in Tamil Nadu but across the country, no one can keep spirituality away from their thoughts and discourse on a day like today," the Union Finance Minister said. Thanking the media for their support, she added, "The BJP always deals with any issue legally and never takes a wrong path. I thank the honourable court for ruling in favour of televising the event live." She stressed that the BJP consistently adheres to legal procedures, allowing thorny issues to be addressed and resolved within the framework of the law. Sitharaman assured that the BJP would respond to such challenges by adopting the legal recourse. Underlining the transcendental nature of spirituality and universal appeal, she stated that it cannot be confined to a specific region or state. The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious Welfare Department officially communicated on Sunday that a live broadcast of the function was not permissible. However, there was a shift in its stance on Monday after the rap from the high court. Sitharaman, meanwhile, urged restraint, as she emphasised the need to avoid controversy even as people across the country engage in spiritual devotion during the Ram Kumbabhishekam ceremony. (ANI)
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], January 22: Aspire Impact, under the aegis of the Impact Future Project (IFP), a thought-leadership platform supported by global tech giant Capgemini, has launched a groundbreaking report on the evolving role of Chief Impact Officers and their potential influence on organizations. This research publication is a first-of-its-kind effort to understand, define and champion adoption of this crucial C-suite role. As a comprehensive deep dive into the Chief Impact Officer's role the report features direct voices and opinions from 25 global ESG, Sustainability, and Impact leaders from varied organization types and sectors across 10 countries and 6 continents. The thorough inquiry offered 12+ insights and trends based on responses to an online survey and a series of in-depth interviews, which explored the need, readiness, role, skills, key performance indicators, and future prospect of the role. As we approach pivotal milestones like 2030 and, subsequently, the 2050 goals, the role of a Chief Impact Officer emerges as crucial. As each Chief Impact Officer contributes to transformative solutions within their organizations, a network of socially conscious leadership should emerge that is collectively equipped to steer capitalism towards a more responsible and sustainable path. Organizations must heed the following key implications: Firstly, there is an urgent need for organizations to recognize, prioritize, and formalize the Chief Impact Officer role--an imperative supported by 95% of survey respondents. Secondly, appointment of Chief Impact Officers are driven by an investor-led movement, with a growing demand for transparency and disclosures on ESG, Sustainability, and Impact data and its linkage to financial performance. Thirdly, above all else, this role demands collaboration and consensus-building, given the possibility of encountering opposition from other CXOs, an apprehension highlighted by as many as 67% of the participants. Many participants in the research believed in and pressed the necessity to derive authority from the CEO and the Board. Delving further into the expectations and responsibilities associated with this position, the research reveals a notable transformative trend. 33% of respondents recognize the triple bottom line as a critical focus, with a substantial emphasis (52%) on integrating Impact into corporate values and culture. Chief Impact Officers play pivotal roles in developing long-term transformation plans for total impact performance, achieving net-zero/circularity/SDG targets, and measuring and managing overall impact. The report underscores the imperative for CIOs to possess a profound understanding of the interplay between ESG, Sustainability, and Impact to formulate effective strategies that lead to positive organizational and societal outcomes. Additionally, the report emphasizes the need for extensive research, ample content, and pedagogy to prepare existing CSOs/ESG Heads, enabling them to confidently transition to the role of Chief Impact Officer and guide their boards and corporations into the era of Impact Capitalism and Impact Accounting. Amit Bhatia, Founder & CEO, Aspire Impact, emphasized the urgency of creating the Chief Impact Officer role, stating, "While 42% of Fortune Global 500 companies have made commitments to reduce emissions by 2030 and 25% have adopted net-zero targets, only a handful have a Chief Impact Officer. There cannot be a better time to push a stronger business case for creating this role and thus a new cadre of protagonists who can catalyze, inspire, integrate, and orchestrate impact." Expressing contentment with the research findings, Corey Glickman, CEO of Ecostart and Founder of Greenman Black (formerly Partner, Head of Sustainability & Design (ESG) at Infosys), highlighted its particular significance for the Indian corporate landscape. "The role of the Chief Impact Officer (CIO) is gaining prominence in the corporate world as companies increasingly recognize the importance of sustainability and social impact. The CIO is responsible for ensuring that the company's operations align with its social and environmental goals. The evolving role of the Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) is central to the integration of material ESG issues into corporate strategy. The rise of the CIO role is a natural progression of this trend, as companies seek to create long-term value by aligning their business practices with their social and environmental goals." Sangeeta Robinson, Chief Sustainability Officer, PVR Limited, expressed her delight at being part of this research and said, "Sustainable Value Creation is a journey not a destination. It is a journey of continual improvement. The impact you create in year one becomes your baseline for the next. This is why I believe that leading Sustainability requires not just skills and qualification, but passion too." Harpreet Ghai, Director, Knowledge Development, Aspire Impact, and Co-author of the publication said, "Those who can proactively negotiate these challenges and conjure up initiatives to create green pathways for their companies, won't be wizards with magic wands, but 21st century transformation leaders, aka the new Corporate Sherpas, or Chief Impact Officers." ESG, Sustainability, and Impact leaders interviewed included Anirban Ghosh, Head, Centre for Sustainability, Mahindra University (formerly Chief Sustainability Officer, Mahindra Group); Kumar Anurag Pratap, Vice President, CSR, Capgemini Technology Services India Ltd.; Aradhana Lal, Senior Vice President, Sustainability & ESG, Lemon Tree Hotels; Dr. Arvind Bodhankar, Executive Director & Chief Risk Officer, Dalmia Bharat; Carlos Enrique Cavelier Lozano, Dream Coordinator & President, Alqueria; Carla Duprat, Director for Sustainability, Grupo Camargo; Corey Glickman, Co-founder and Partner Strategy & Consulting, EcoStart Ventures Inc, and Founder, Greenman Black LLC (formerly Partner, Head of Sustainability & Design (ESG) at Infosys); Denise Hills, Board member, UN SDG Pioneer, ESG and Sustainability Advisor (formerly Global Sustainability Director, Natura&Co); Desiree Lucchese, Head of Ethics and Impact, U Ethical Investors; Ellen Martin, Chief Impact Officer, Circulate Capital; Fernando Cortes McAllister, Vice President, CSR, Grupo Bolivar; Giuliana Ortega, Sustainability Director, Raia Drogasil; Dr. James Robey, Executive VP, Global Head of Environmental Sustainability, Capgemini; Jill Weise, Vice Chair and Managing Director, Kroll; Joao Figueira, Chief Strategy Officer, Betterfly; Jyotin S Kutty, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Tata Motors Ltd.; Milind Mungale, Advisor, Information Security and Technology NSDL (formerly EVP & Chief Impact Officer, Protean eGov) ; Nana Yaa Ofori-Koree, Head of Partnerships, Sustainability and CSR, Fidelity Bank Ghana; Octavio Rocha, Chief Impact Officer, New Ventures; Prabodha Acharya, Chief Sustainability Officer, JSW Group; Pratyush Panda, Head ESG, LTIMindtree; Sabina Curatolo, Senior Director Impact, Breakthrough Victoria (formerly Partner & Head of Impact, Bridges Australia); Sangeeta Robinson, Chief Sustainability Officer, PVR INOX Limited; Viiveck Verma, Founder and CEO, Upsurge Global; and Zarmeen Pavri, Co-Founder and General Partner, SDGx. Guest Contributors included Swapnil Joshi, Director, Sustainability & Design (Smart Spaces), Infosys; and Radha Sule, Deputy Vice President, Corporate Sustainability, Tata Capital. Prominent figures at the launch event who delivered keynote addresses included well-known names like Vineet Rai, Founder, Aavishkaar Capital; Kieron Boyle, Chief Executive, Impact Investing Institute, UK; Tatiana Glad, Executive Director, Impact Hub Network; and Kumar Anurag Pratap, Vice President & CSR Leader, Capgemini. Capgemini has been dedicated to supporting Aspire in conducting ground-breaking research within the impact economy ecosystem since 2020, showcasing their commitment to advancing research initiatives in this field. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Sharing the pictures of the meeting on his official handle X, the Chief Minister said, "Chaired a meeting with representatives of the 10 political parties at my secretariat to address the current situation in Manipur."

https://x.com/NBirenSingh/status/1749104845884412044?s=20

"Constructive discussions were held, reflecting a united commitment to navigate challenges and work collectively for the well-being of our state," the post added.

Manipur has been witnessing ethnic strife between the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo tribal community since May 2023.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Friday said there was a 73 per cent reduction in violent incidents in the Northeast during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure.

"The incidents of insurgency have come down because more than 8,900 cadres of militant groups have surrendered in the last five years and have joined the mainstream, giving a message to the entire country that peace and prosperity are interconnected and without them, the states cannot develop," Shah said earlier in the month.

The Union Home Minister also said earlier that the Modi government has also taken many steps in the last 10 years to establish peace and stability in the Northeast. (ANI)
Lashing out at the ruling Congress government in Telangana over its electoral promises, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Sunday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party would retain power for a third term in the Lok Sabha elections just a few months away. Urging people in the state to vote for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that the country today can't imagine a state without PM Modi. Union Minister Kishan Reddy said, "BJP is the biggest party not just in the country but in the world. Earlier, the communist party in China was the biggest party. However, under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, the BJP has become the biggest party in the world." On Lok Sabha elections, he said, "We are soon getting ready for the Parliament elections. The Election Commission notification will mostly come next month. In Telugu States, there is a chance of elections happening in April first week". He expressed confidence that the party would retain power for third time. "Narendra Modi will definitely become the Prime Minister of this country for the 3rd time. We will definitely get a huge majority more than previous time. BJP will do a hattrick under PM Modi's leadership," Reddy said. He said that during Manmohan Singh government, we saw many central ministers themselves going to jail for various scams. "However, under PM Modi's leadership, there is no corruption in the government. India is the 5th largest economy in the world now." "There is peace with no communal riots or terrorist activities anywhere in the country now. The people are all happy. We have built around 4 crores houses for the poor. However, the BRS government did not give a house to a single poor person. We saw the corrupt rule of BRS government. They created debts by limiting the rule to a single family". "The Congress have made huge promises but they do not even have a roadmap to implement the promises. We are waiting to see the Congress party implement its promises. People turned against BRS as they did not fulfill their promises. Now, Congress has made more promises." He urged people of the state to vote for PM Modi. "I urge the Telangana people not to waste any vote and strengthen PM Narendra Modi. The country today cannot imagine a state without Modi." He added, "The Ayodhya Ram Mandir is achieved after 500 years of struggle, now the Pran Pratishtha ceremony will take place. It is not just a temple, but a symbol of Indian culture. All the Hindus in various countries will witness the ceremony online. This will be the biggest program to be watched online after the emergence of online technology. Crores of people from across the world are going to witness the event online. The whole country is in a festive mood for the past week." (ANI)
Hitting out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, Congress leader Anand Sharma said that Lord Ram does not belong to a political party that came into existence in 1980 or any organisation that came into existence in 1925. His remarks came ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony today, days after the Congress declined the invitation for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. "Lord Ram does not belong to a political party that came into existence in 1980 or any organisation that came into existence in 1925. Neither Congress nor Rahul Gandhi needs proof from the BJP of who they are...," Sharma told ANI. Lashing out at the Bharatiya Janata Party, the Congress leader also said that Hindu culture is not their personal property. "Hindu culture is not their (BJP) personal property...," he added. The decision to snub the invitation to the January 22 Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony by the opposing parties of the India bloc has triggered a political slugfest. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and a host of Congress bigwigs -- national president Mallikarjun Kharge, former president Sonia Gandhi and the party's Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury--have already turned down the invitation to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav earlier in the month turned down the invitation saying he will visit the temple with his family at a later date. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place today. 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. (ANI)
Union Minister Smriti Irani performed 'Shramdaan' at Siddha temple 'Maa Durgan Bhavani Dham' in her Lok Sabha constituency Amethi, a day ahead of the Pran Pratishta ceremony at Ayodhya Ram Temple. Irani was seen sweeping the steps and the entrance of the at Ram Janmabhoomi Temple on Sunday. She also performed puja at the temple. "On the call of respected PM @narendramodiji, under the 'Swachh Teerth Abhiyan', I performed Shramdaan at the Siddha temple 'Maa Durgan Bhavani Dham' located in my Lok Sabha constituency Amethi," the Union Minister said in a post in hindi on Sunday. Irani said that the country is conscious of cleanliness and purity ahead of the "arrival" of Lord Shri Ram at Ayodhya. "Today, the whole of India is completely conscious of cleanliness and purity to prepare for the arrival of the adorable Lord Shri Ram. Let us have this feeling towards cleanliness," the Union Minister said. She further said, "Today, on the eve of the consecration of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Dham, I had the privilege of participating in the 'Grand Bhajan Sandhya' program organized by Ram devotees in Amethi Lok Sabha Assembly. After waiting for hundreds of years, our beloved Lord Ram is about to arrive in our courtyard. On this occasion, we are excited and eager to celebrate the life consecration ritual as 'Rammay Amethi' festival." Earlier last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh swept the floor of Hanuman Temple in Lucknow where he went to attend the Army Day events. Singh reached Hanuman Setu temple near Lucknow University in the morning, where he picked a broom and cleaned the floor. Thereafter, he offered prayers. BJP president JP Nadda launched a nationwide cleanliness drive at temples which will continue till the day of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple. Senior BJP leaders, including Union ministers and chief ministers of various states, picked up the broom and mop across the country to participate in the cleanliness drive. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleaned the premises of the Kalaram Temple in Maharashtra's Nashik as part of Swachchata Abhiyan campaign. Visuals showed the Prime Minister with a mop and bucket mopping the floor of the temple. The PM appealed to the people to carry out Swachhata activities (cleanliness drives) at temples across the country ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya on Monday. (ANI)
All the members of the Mukesh Ambani family will be present personally at Ayodhya to witness the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla. Antilia, the Ambani residence, is decorated as the nation gets ready to welcome Lord Shri Ram. An Anna Seva Bhandara was also being organised. Reliance Industries said the temples at Reliance premises across the country will celebrate with special puja today. These include various temples in Reliance facilities such as in Mumbai, Jamnagar, Dahej, Nagothane, Hazira, Silvassa, Halol, Hoshiarpur, Nagpur, Shahdol, Kakinada and various other locations. Reliance Industries has declared a holiday to enable the lakhs of Reliance family to celebrate and join the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. In Ayodhya, Jio has set up additional towers for enhanced and seamless network, Multiple Cells on Wheels (CoWs) placed across key locations for ubiquitous connectivity, charging stations set up across key paths to help visitors charge their devices constantly. (Some of these charging stations will be permanent installations in Ayodhya), support for setting up 'May I Help You' desks at important locations. In collaboration with Doordarshan, Live Telecast and real-time updates of Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha ceremony will available on JioTV, JioTV+ and JioNews. JioTV will provide customers with comprehensive details about the ceremony, including rituals, traditions, and cultural significance. This exclusive content will deepen the audience's understanding and appreciation of this auspicious occasion. JioTV and JioNews will feature expert comments and analysis, offering viewers unique insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratisthan. Ayodhya is set to go down in history with the much-awaited Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple on Monday. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram in the newly built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya will be held at around noon. Earlier in October, 2023. The ceremonial journey leading up to the Pran Pratishtha included a seven-day ritual that commenced on January 16, 2024. Earlier, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The ceremony will be attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects of the country. People from all walks of life including representatives of various tribal communities will also attend the ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address this gathering on the occasion. The Prime Minister will interact with workers associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. Prime Minister will also visit the Kuber Tila, where the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored. He will also perform Pooja and Darshan at this restored temple. The Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. (ANI)
The Janata Dal-United (JDU) suffered a major blow on Pran Pratishtha day as one of its spokespersons, Sunil Singh, shared his resignation letter from the party on social media on Monday. Singh had tendered his resignation from the post of State Spokesperson and the party's primary membership to state party chief Umesh Singh Kushwaha in December last year. Sharing a snapshot of his resignation letter on Monday, Sunil Singh said he has decided to make his resignation public and that Lord Ram will guide him on his path of duty. "On this auspicious day, following the ideals of Lord Shri Ram and following his direction, I make public my resignation from the primary membership of JDU and the post of spokesperson. Lord Shri Ram will further guide me on my path of duty," the former JDU spokesperson said in a Facebook post. Sharing his experience and gratitude on the day of the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram Lalla at Ayodhya, Singh said that the country is "Rammay" and all Indians feel blessed by chanting Lord Ram's name. "Today the whole of India is in Rammay. There is joy everywhere due to the slogan of Jai Shri Ram and songs and music. We Indians are feeling blessed just by chanting his name. I too, Akinchan, bow down before that Lord Shri Ram," he said. "I, Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh, resign from the post of State Spokesperson along with primary membership of the party due to personal reasons," he stated in his resignation letter thanking senior leaders of his party. On Saturday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar executed a cabinet reshuffle, resulting in the reallocation of portfolios for three ministers from his ally, the Rashtriya Janata Dal. Chandra Shekhar, the Education Minister who had been in the news for various reasons, was appointed as the Sugarcane Industries Minister. He previously held the portfolio of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department. Alok Mehta, who previously oversaw the Sugarcane Industries, Revenue, and Land Resources portfolio, was appointed as the new Education Minister for the state, as per an official notification. Lalit Kumar Yadav has been given charge of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, as well as the Public Health Engineering Department. He previously held the Education Department. Ram Mandir Trustee Kameshwar Chaupal had earlier said that an invitation letter was sent to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. (ANI)
Chaldean Catholic Church Head Urges Iraqi Government to Ensure Justice for Assyrians

Cardinal Louis Raphael I Sako. ( MAXPPP) The head of the Chaldean Catholic Church has called on the government in Iraq to ensure justice for Christians in the Muslim-majority country.

The government in Baghdad must "assume its national and legal responsibilities by adopting practical and clear measures to ensure justice for Christians", said Iraqi Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, patriarch of the Chaldean Church in a recent speech offering "observations" that enhance the "understanding" of the numerous factors adversely impacting the Christian communities in Iraq.

Christians "are an essential part of the diverse cultural, social, national and religious fabric of Iraq", Cardinal Sako said. In Iraq, "the Muslims arrived there from the Arabian Peninsula in the mid-7th Century" and Christians "welcomed the Muslims and opened their schools, cultural centers and hospitals," he said. There were Christian builders "who built many mosques, especially in Mosul," he added.

Nonetheless, "Iraqi Christians have paid a heavy price in the historic period following the second Gulf War and the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime in the wake of the US-led military intervention in the last two decades," Cardinal Sako said.

He recalled the 120,000 Christians who fled from Mosul and the cities of the Nineveh Plain between June and August 2014 following the occupation of the region by militias of the so-called Islamic State. Starting from 2017, after the defeat of the jihadists, the government has "offered nothing" to Christians but giving them the choice "to emigrate or face their fate as if they were strangers in the country", the Chaldean patriarch said.

There are fewer than one million Christians in Iraq, and they have been targeted by Muslim terrorists and criminal groups. Islamic State that ruled Mosul from 2014 to 2016, damaged or destroyed every church in the city. Islamic State also drove out local Christians from the area.

On the eve of the second Gulf War, Christians in Iraq were estimated between 1 and 1.4 million, approximately 6% of the population. Since then, their numbers have plunged to barely 300-400,000.

Beleaguered Christian community in Iraq

Chaldean Catholics in Iraq are presently living under possible oppression and confiscation of ecclesiastical property after the country's president revoked the State's resignation that Cardinal Sako, is head of their Church and sole administrator of its goods. This Eastern Catholic community, which numbers about 400,000 members, represents two-thirds of all Christians in the Middle Eastern country.

Cardinal Sako, who has been the Chaldean patriarch since 2013, is also the target of a warrant issued by the country's police, after Ryan al-Kildani, leader of the "Babylon Brigade", an armed militia group claiming to be Christian but in reality affiliated to pro-Iran Shia groups, filed a complaint against him for "defamation". Faced with this threat, the 75-year-old cardinal said he would not return to the patriarchate's headquarters in Baghdad, but will seek refuge in a monastery in autonomous Kurdistan.

In his address, the Chaldean patriarch also advocates for the removal of militias, including those affiliated to the Babylon Brigade, from the Nineveh Plain. He proposes their substitution with the forces of the army and the federal police.

Cardinal Sako has been vilified on social media ever since he criticized Al-Kildani, popularly called "Ryan the Chaldean," and the Babylonian Brigade political party that in the October 2021 Iraqi parliamentary elections controversially won four of the five seats reserved for Christian candidates. Christian politicians from other parties allege that votes from Shia Muslims had been diverted in favor of the Babylonian Movement to win those seats.

Representatives from 11 different European nations have already declared their support for Cardinal Sako amid a social media campaign against the primate of the Chaldean Church for his criticism of the political party that claims to represent Iraq's Christian minority.

Their European governments expressed "solidarity" with the Iraqi cardinal and for his "efforts to protect the rights of Christians on the soil that they have inhabited for two millennia."

In the past Cardinal Sako has criticized the so-called "Christian parties", the small group of Iraqi leaders who aspire to present themselves as political projections of local Christian communities. "These parties serve only to foment regional nationalisms," he said.

Iraqi Christians are not "infidels"

The Chaldean Catholic patriarch has often made a strong case to show that Iraqi Christians are not a "minority" or "infidels" in their country but who have been present in the region well before Islam and contributed much to the original civilization.

Iraqi Christians represent an indigenous community, present in the lands of Mesopotamia and with their dedication and creativity have contributed in a decisive way to the original civilization that developed in the region, Cardinal Sako had earlier said, the patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church.

Labeling Christians as "infidels" and "polytheists" is an offense to humanity and also to intelligence, said Cardinal Sako, commenting on content over digital platforms of the national education system.

The primate of the Chaldean Church has also criticized the fact that the Constitution cites only Islam as the source of legislation, offering that religion as the legal basis for political and social practices that inevitably end up discriminating against Christians and members of other faith communities as "second-class citizens".

"Christians are indigenous Iraqis and are not a community from another country. They are people of this land, so it is not acceptable to label them as a 'minority'."

People of this land

Christianity has been in Iraq from its earliest times, as the Acts of the Apostles testify. Its origins go back to the preaching of St Thomas the Apostle and his disciples Addai and Mari in the first century A.D..

Iraq is biblically and historically, an important land for all Christians who have played an important role in its history. The Iraqi Christian community is composed today of Chaldeans, Assyrians, Armenians, Latins, Melkites, Orthodox and Protestants.
After the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled on Monday at Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya, devotees outside the Wadala Ram Temple in Mumbai celebrated the Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla by dancing and bursting crackers. The idol of Lord Ram was unveiled in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi led rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple. The ceremony was held in an atmosphere of a deep sense of devotion. Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showered flower petals over Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled. Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Sri Ram' as the ceremony was held. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are present at the ceremony. The historic event today is being attended by representatives of all major spiritual and religious sects in the country. People from all walks of life, including representatives of various tribal communities, also attended the ceremony. The Prime Minister will be addressing this distinguished gathering on the occasion. PM Modi will interact with shramjeevis associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He will also visit Kuber Tila, where the ancient temple of Lord Shiv has been restored. The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at the ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. Near the Mandir is a historic Well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu. The foundation of the Mandir has been constructed with a 14-meter- thick layer of roller-compacted concrete (RCC), giving it the appearance of artificial rock. No iron is used anywhere in the Mandir. For protection against ground moisture, a 21-foot-high plinth has been constructed using granite. The Mandir complex has a sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant, water supply for fire safety and an independent power station. The Mandir has been constructed employing the country's traditional and indigenous technology. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday questioned the Tamil Nadu government on its alleged oral order to ban live telecasts of the 'Pran Prathishta' of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya in temples across Tamil Nadu. The apex court said that the state government can't ban such events on the grounds that Hindus are a "minority" in certain areas. "This is a homogenous society... Do not prevent only on the ground that the A or B community is there," a bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta told counsel appearing for Tamil Nadu government. The bench pulled up the Tamil Nadu government for allegedly ordering such a general order and said permission cannot be denied on the sole ground that other communities are living in the location. The apex court called these orders "atrocious" and directed the state not to summarily deny such permissions. "We believe and trust that the authorities will act in accordance with law and not on the oral instructions... The authorities will examine the application seeking permission for such a live telecast and deal with it in accordance with the law. If rejected, then reasons shall be given for rejection of any such requests," the apex court recorded in its order. The top court also issued notice to the Tamil Nadu government and others on a plea filed by BJP's State Unit Secretary Vinoj P Selvam against its oral order by which it has banned the live telecast of the "Pran Prathishta" of Ram Lalla in temples across the state. Tamil Nadu told the Supreme Court that there are no such restrictions and there is no ban on the live telecast, performance of poojas, archanas, annadhanasm, bhajans on the occasion of "Pran Prathishta" of Lord Ram at Ayodhya today and the plea is just politically motivated. During the hearing, senior counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu, appearing for the petitioner, argued that some orders issued by police put a ban on the live-streaming and other religious functions of the ceremony in Ayodhya's Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. "A political party hates religion. That party comes to power. It now wants the government to hate religion too," he said. Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central government, expressed shock at this state of affairs and requested the Supreme Court that a strong message must come from the highest judiciary of the country to the State Government that the Constitution of India still governs the nation and that it applies to the State of Tamil Nadu also. "Nobody can be prevented from performing the religious rituals," Mehta said, adding that LED screenings in temples are being stopped in the state. The bench asked the Tamil Nadu government about the reason for the ban and expressed its displeasure upon perusal of the orders adduced by the petitioner's counsel, who pointed out that the only reason for the denial was that minority communities reside near the place for which permissions were being sought. Justice Datta said, "What kind of reasons are given for rejection? Can this be a reason that a particular community is a minority, so you won't allow the procession? Can a reason be given that Hindus are a minority in some places so you will not allow it? These reasons are atrocious. If this reason has to follow, no procession or ritual can happen across the state." The bench posted the matter for hearing on January 29. (ANI)
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday accused the "Hindu-hating" DMK of misusing the Tamil Nadu police to suppress the right of Ram devotees' right to watch the live telecast of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. "Tamil Nadu Police is being misused by the Government of Tamil Nadu. They are being misused by Hindu-hating DMK," Sitharaman told reporters here. The Union Minister earlier said that the police removed LED screens that were put up at several temples and places to watch the live telecast from Ayodhya temple of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, conducted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Can any citizen be denied the right to watch the Prime Minister? The DMK is showing its personal hatred for the Prime Minister," the Union Minister said. She alleged that the ruling DMK government was "suppressing" the rights of people who want to worship Lord Ram. "What right does the DMK have to infringe on my right to worship? It is infringing on my right to worship as a Hindu. It is infringing on my right to watch what is happening in Ayodhya. It is a clear violation of every Hindu's right. That is what is happening here (Kamakshi Amman Temple), where we put LED screens and they were plucking them out," Sitharaman said. Earlier today, K Annamalai, Tamil Nadu BJP chief, claimed that the Madras High Court has ordered that there shall be no restrictions on telecasting the Pran Pratishtha ceremony live on private premises in the state. The BJP earlier filed urgent writ petitions both in the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court, alleging that the DMK government in the state banned arranging public viewings of the live telecast of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the premises of temples and other places. "The Hon Madras High Court has ordered that there shall be no restrictions on telecasting the Pran Pratishtha live on private premises," Annamalai said in a post on X. He said that the Supreme Court had ordered that the fundamental rights of individuals could not be restricted by the Tamil Nadu government. "The Supreme Court has ordered that, based on oral orders, the fundamental rights of individuals cannot be restricted by the State govt of TN. Devotees of Bhagwan Shri Ram are free to telecast the consecration event live on an LED screen within any private premises and to give intimation only to HR&CE-administered temples. There is no ban on conducting Bhajans, offering special pooja or Annadhana," he said in the post. Annamalai watched the live telecast of the Ram Temple inauguration at the Gopalapuram Venugopala Swami Temple in Chennai. The BJP's plea in the Supreme Court said: "It is respectfully submitted that State Government run by DMK political party has banned live telecast of the auspicious occasion of 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram at Ayodhya in all the temples across the state of Tamil Nadu." (ANI)
Andhra Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party president Daggubati Purandeswari offered prayers in Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple at Srisailam on Monday on the occasion of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. The Andhra Pradesh BJP chief was accorded a traditional welcome by the temple officials. Purandeshwari performed a special puja at the Mallikharjuna Swamy temple. Purandheswari also visited the Shivaji Spurthi Kendra in Srisailam and paid a floral tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Meanwhile, the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the new idol of Lord Ram was completed in Ayodhya today. The Prime Minister, while addressing the dignitaries attending the grand event in the temple town of Uttar Pradesh, said that the moment of the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol is an occasion not merely of triumph but of humility too. "This is a moment of celebration as well as the moment of a reflection of Indian society's maturity. It is an occasion of not merely triumph but humility too. The history of the world is itself proof that many countries get strangled in their own history and such countries faced difficulties when they tried to solve their problems...but the way, our country untied the knots of history, is proof that our future is going to be more beautiful than our past," he said. The PM said that the construction of the temple which was supposed to 'set off a firestorm' is a symbol of peace, patience, harmony and integration of the country. "There was also a time when some people used to say 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi' (the construction of the temple will set off a firestorm). Such people could not understand the purity of India's social spirit. The construction of this temple of Ram Lalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and coordination of the Indian society. We are seeing that this construction is not giving birth to any fire, but to energy," he added. The PM also said that Ayodhya's temple is a temple of national consciousness in the form of Ram. The Prime Minister walked inside the temple premises with a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present inside the sanctorum during the rituals. Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Sri Ram' as the ceremony was held. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court recently restrained a person and a firm from using the mark 'Khadi Organic' and halted its Ram Mandir service-related operation of delivering free prasad of Ram Mandir Prasad on Pran Pratishtha day on January 22. The high court has recently passed the interim judgement in the suit filed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission. Justice Sanjeev Narula by way of an interim order passed on January 18, restrained defendants Ashish Singh and M/s DrillMaps India Private Limited and any person acting on their behalf from manufacturing, selling, offering for sale, exporting, advertising, directly or indirectly, any kind of goods and/or services under the marks "Khadi Organic", "and/or mark identical or deceptively similar to plaintiff's registered KHADI marks. The bench also directed both Defendants to takedown their social media pages active on social media platforms that use any mark identical or deceptively similar to Plaintiff's registered KHADI marks. The high court, watching the images, arrived at the prima facie opinion that Defendants' Marks are deceptively similar to the plaintiff's KHADI mark, which is fully incorporated in the impugned marks. "It appears that Defendants No 1 and 2 are attempting to monopolise the consecration event by preying on the public's religious beliefs and devotion and deceiving them into transferring money to Defendants No. 1 and 2, using the Plaintiff's goodwill," the high court said. The high court also directed that Defendant No. 3 (Domain Name Registrar) shall suspend the operation of the domain name/website "www.khadiorganic.com" registered by them and shall also maintain status quo with regards to the ownership of the said domain name. The high court also issued notice and directed to file reply within four weeks. Rejoinder thereto, if any, be filed within two weeks thereafter, the court said. The matter has been listed on May 27, 2024. The court also issues summons to the defendants, directing them to file a written statement within 30 days. The Plaintiff Khadi and Village Industries Commission ( KVIC) alleged that the Defendants are perpetrating fraud on the general public by creating a false association with the Plaintiff's well-known "KHADI" mark. It was argued that In January, 2024, the Plaintiff came across a reel/ video posted on instagram advertising a website "www.khadiorganic.com" for delivery of free prasad from the Pran Pratishta ceremony scheduled to be held on 22 January 2024 at the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. As per the information hosted on the homepage of aforesaid website, members of the public, who are desirous of obtaining the "Ram Mandir Prasad" for free, could place their orders by filling a form provided on the website. For such delivery, a charge of Rs. 51 for Indian customers, and USD 11 for foreign customers, is sought, the counsel argued. On further exploring the impugned website, the Plaintiff learnt that Defendant No. 1, Ashish Singh, has established the brand "KHADI ORGANIC", which is a part of Defendant No. 2-company [M/s DrillMaps India Private Limited], the counsel added. The counsel argued that Defendants No. 1 and 2 are offering various products such as garments, collectibles, food items, home temples, goods required to conduct religious ceremonies such as Gangajal, on the website, which bear marks "KHADI EARTH". Additionally, the impugned website contains a tab titled "Donate us", wherein financial contributions are sought from the public to facilitate the free prasad initiative being carried out by Defendants No. 1 and 2. It was also stated that as per the Plaintiff's knowledge, the website "www.khadiorganic.com" was registered on 23rd December, 2021, but has become operative only recently. The website further endorses links redirecting the consumers to various social media profiles of "KHADI ORGANIC" brand. Defendants' account on Pinterest uses the device mark " Khadi Organic". Defendants No. 1 and 2 are openly promoting their website as an "official website for sale of Ayodhya Ram Mandir prasad" on various platforms, such as Instagram. The afore-noted "KHADI ORGANIC" marks subsume the Plaintiff's "KHADI" trademark, petitioner's counsel argued. Defendants No. 1 and 2 have no right to misappropriate Plaintiff's registered KHADI marks and to render a false impression that Plaintiff is affiliated with the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which is organizing the consecration ceremony, the plea stated. (ANI)
The winners of the National School Band Competition, which was jointly organised by the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Education at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi as part of Republic Day celebrations 2024, were announced today.

PM SHRI School Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Suratgarh, Sriganganagar, Rajasthan and Droupadi Girls High School, Nishaposi, Mayurbhanj, Odisha secured the top spot in pipe band girls and pipe band boys category.

Meanwhile, Kerala and Sikkim schools bagged the best Brass Band Girls and Brass Band Boys awards.

St Teresa's Higher Secondary School, Kannur, Kerala and Government Senior Secondary School, West Point, Gangtok, Sikkim bagged the best Brass Band Girls and Brass Band Boys.

Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy Sanjay Kumar gave away the cash prizes to the winners along with a trophy, and certificates.

The jury appointed by the Ministry of Defence, which included members from each wing of the Armed Forces, selected the winners of the competition upon the culmination of the grand finale held on January 21 and 22, 2024.

In addition to the participating teams, there was a special performance by Government Sardar Patel Senior Secondary School, Kalpeni, Lakshadweep.

The competition was organised at three levels viz State, Zonal and conducted by all the States/Union Territories (UTs) for all schools (CBSE, ICSE, KVS, NVS, and Sainik schools etc). Four hundred and eighty-six (486) teams, comprising 12,857 children, participated in the State-Level Competition, while 73 teams of 2,002 children took part at the Zonal Level.

Four hundred and fifty-seven (457) students of schools from 15 States/Union Territories took part in the Grand Finale.

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)
The Prime Minister has urged citizens to light the 'Ram Jyoti' on the auspicious occasion and welcome Ram Lalla.

The photos were shared by the Prime Minister on X with the caption "Ram Jyoti".

Meanwhile, RSS workers along with their families celebrated 'Deepotsav' at RSS headquarters in Maharashtra's Nagpur, to celebrate Ayodhya Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha'

BJP National President JP Nadda along with his family also lighted oil lamps at his residence in Delhi, to celebrate 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya.

The Ram Lalla idol was unveiled at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony after the hour-long rituals in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who led the ceremony.

The Prime Minister walked inside the temple premises with a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) placed on a red folded dupatta.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present inside the sanctorum during the rituals.

Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Sri Ram' as the ceremony was held. (ANI)
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited the Hanuman temple at Jakhu in Shimla on Monday and looked at the place where a 111-foot statue of Lord Ram is proposed to be established. The Chief Minister visited Jakhu temple and offered prayers to Lord Hanuman. He visited the temple after the Pran Prathistha ceremony of Ram Lalla was held at the grand temple in Ayodhya. He said that the Lord Ram is the foundation of India's culture. "Lord Ram is the culture of India, today Pran Pratishtha has been done. I would like to congratulate and greet everyone. We have tried to follow the path and preachings of Lord Ram in running our government and in our lives. It is important that the Ram temple is being built in Ayodhya. Hanumanji had brought Ramji back to Ayodhya. We recited Hanuman Chalisa here. I appeal to everyone to follow the path of Ramji. We shall set up a big statue of Lord Ram here," Sukhu said. He also urged people to light up earthen diyas. Sukhu accused BJP leaders in the state of trying to take political benefit from temple-related events in Ayodhya. "I am a Sanatan Dharmi. The leader of the opposition here is trying to take political benefits. Whatever good I am doing he is just misleading," Sukhu said. Sukhu also hit out at Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and accused him of resorting to political gimmicks against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Congress has alleged that Rahul Gandhi, who is on Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, was "stopped and prevented" from paying obeisance at the Batadrava Than, the birthplace of saint Sri Sri Sankardev, in Hainoragaon near here. The party alleged that this was done on instructions of Sarma. Sukhu said there is no law in the country to prevent a devotee from offering prayers at a religious place. "The Nayay Yatra is getting a very good public response and the government in Assam is trying to mislead the people of state. Ramji is with Rahul Gandhi and people of Assam and the country are with Rahul Gandhij," Sukhu said. Sukhu had paid obeisance at the Ram temple in Shimla on Sunday and lighted diyas. A 24-hour 'Akhand Path' also began at the temple. Sukhu prayed for the prosperity of the state and said that Lord Rama "is our ideal". The Chief Minister also announced a public holiday in the state for January 22. The Chief Minister had said that Lord Rama does not belong to any particular party and is the ideal of the entire country and our culture. Responding to a query, Sukhu had said that he would visit Ayodhya in near future. He added that Lord Rama is considered incomplete without Lord Hanuman and a statue of Lord Rama would be erected along with that of Lord Hanuman in Jakhu as proposed by the Sood Sabha. (ANI)
Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar on Monday said that the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya temple should be a "moment for national unity around an overwhelming national sentiment" and "discordant notes at this time will only enhance social and religious cleavages". He also said that the secular credentials of parties must rest on a firmer footing so as not to be called in question for respecting the religious sensitivities of a vast mass of people. "The nation rejoices in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the grand Bhagwan Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya today. The occasion should be a moment for national unity around an overwhelming national sentiment. Discordant notes at this time will only enhance social and religious cleavages, that ill serve the national interest. The sensitivities of the nation and intense emotions connected with the ceremony need to be respected as a necessary condition of democracy," Kumar said in a statement. "On sensitive moments such as the present,a wholistic and magnanimous view needs to be taken. The secular credentials of parties must rest on a firmer footing so as not to be called in question for respecting the religious and emotional sensitivities of the vast mass of the people. The republic's core values will not be diminished by participation in the celebrations in Ayodhya," he added. Congress had "respectfully declined" the invitation for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya, saying it is "clearly an RSS/BJP event". "Lord Ram is worshipped by millions in our country. Religion is a personal matter. But the RSS/BJP have long made a political project of the temple in Ayodhya. The inauguration of the incomplete temple by the leaders of the BJP and the RSS has been obviously brought forward for electoral gain. While abiding by the 2019 Supreme Court judgment and honouring the sentiments of millions who revere Lord Ram, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Smt. Sonia Gandhi and Shri Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury have respectfully declined the invitation to what is clearly an RSS/BJP event," Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had said in a statement. The CPI-M had also declined the invitation for the Pran Prathistha ceremony. However, Congress leaders have visited the Grand Temple in Ayodhya as devotees. Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh reached Ayodhya on Monday and participated in the grand ceremony in Ram Mandir. Himachal Pradesh, which is ruled by Congress, declared a holiday for state government employees for Monday. Congress leaders and workers, including its Uttar Pradesh chief Ajay Rai, went to Ayodhya last week to take a holy dip in the Saryu River and pay obeisance at temples in the town. (ANI)
The Special Court on Monday fined a Maharashtra-based company one crore rupees for cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy in a case related to the allocation of Marki Mangli-Il, Ill and IV coal blocks in Yavatmal District, Maharashtra to the company. The Court also sentenced to different jail terms for its three former officer bearers. The Special Judge Sanjay Bansal imposed a fine of rupees 1 Crore upon convicts in CBI vs M/s Topworth Urja and Metals Ltd. The court also ordered Manoj Maheshwari sentenced to undergo imprisonment for three years, convict Anil Kumar Saxena sentenced to undergo imprisonment for three years, and convict Anand Nand Kishore Sarda sentenced to undergo imprisonment for four years. He was taken into custody. Earlier on January 5, 2024, the court had convicted them under section 120B read with sections 417, 420, 468 and 471 IPC and fixed January 11 and January 12, 2024, for the arguments on the point of sentence. The court had convicted M/s Topworth Urja & Metals Ltd. (formerly known as M/s Shri Virangana Steels Ltd.), Anand Nandkishore Sarda, the then Director of M/s Shri Virangana Steels Ltd. (now M/s Topworth Urja & Metals Ltd.), Manoj Maheshwari, the former Director/CEO of M/s Shri Virangana Steels Ltd. (now M/s Topworth Urja & Metals Ltd.) and Anil Kumar Saxena, the then President of M/s Shri Virangana Steels Ltd. (now M/s Topworth Urja & Metals Ltd.). The accused persons were the office bearers of the company at the time the coal block was allocated Topworth Urja & Metals Ltd, earlier known as Shree Virangana Steels Ltd, and its former officer bearers, Anil Kumar Saxena, Manoj Maheshwari and Anand Nand Kishore Sarda, were put on trial for the offence of various offences punishable under Indian Penal Code During the course of the final arguments, it was submitted by Sanjay Kumar, Additional Legal Advisor of CBI, that the prosecution has successfully proved its case against the accused persons beyond reasonable doubts and therefore they may be convicted and punished as per law. The coal scam prosecution team was constituted by the Supreme Court of India in its order dated September 1, 2014. In 2020, the court discharged three people in connection with the coal block allocation case concerning Topworth Urja and Metals Limited (TUML). The Court had discharged TUML Director Surendra Lodha, its President Anil Nevatia, and Vice President SK Mittra in a coal block allocation case concerning Topworth Urja & Metals Limited (TUML). However, the Court had framed charges against the company TUML and three others--Anil Kumar Saxena, Manoj Maheshwari and Anand Nand Kishore Sarda--for their alleged role in the execution of mining leases pertaining to Marki-Mangli II, III and IV coal blocks in Yavatmal District, Maharashtra. TUML was formerly known as Shree Virangana Steels Ltd. According to the prosecution, Virangana Steels Ltd., along with its officers and directors, conspired to cheat the Ministry of Coal (MoC) with a view to procuring the allocation of captive coal mining blocks for its proposed 3 LTPA sponge iron plant, Captive Power Plant (CPP) and Steel Melt Shop and even succeeded in obtaining an allocation of three captive coal blocks, said the CBI. (ANI)
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 11-day 'anushthan' for Ram Lalla's 'Pran Pratishtha', and said that the arrival of Ramlalla showcases the emergence of a new Bharat. "Today we heard that the Prime Minister observed an 11-day 'anushthan', before the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. He observed the 'anushthan' more strictly than he was asked to. I have an old acquaintance with him. I know he is an ascetic. This ceremony is witnessing the emergence of a new India that will provide relief from distress to the entire world. There is joy and enthusiasm everywhere," the RSS chief said. Addressing a gathering of distinguished guests and saints following the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Bhagwat said that Lord Ram had come back to Ayodhya after a span of 500 years. "But why did he (Ram) leave? The reason behind Lord Shri Ram's departure from Ayodhya was a familial conflict. He went into exile for 14 years and returned after ending the discord in the entire world. Presently, after 500 years, Shri Ram Lalla has returned, which assures the welfare of all those who are witnesses to this historic event. However, disciplined behaviour and good conduct like that of the people living in Tretayug are essential for achieving Ramrajya," he pointed out. "Instead of engaging in conflicts, our contribution to the progress of the country must be through good conduct. We pay our utmost respect to him. The history of this era has so much power that whoever listens to the stories of Ram Lalla, all their sorrows and pains will be erased," he added. Bhagwat said that all countrymen should fulfil the duties of citizens of Ram Rajya, just like Lord Ram. "He (Lord Ram) has practiced penance for us. Now we should do the same. We should fulfil the duty of citizens of Ram Rajya. We should get rid of our fights, even for the most insignificant differences among us," Bhagwat said. Bhagwat said that we should practice penance to make our country 'Vishwa Guru'. "We should practice penance together to make our country Vishwa Guru. If we practice this, along with the ongoing construction of the temple, Vishwa Guru Bharat will also be established," he said. "No one can express what you are feeling now. The same feeling is resonating throughout the world, even in small temples where the Pran Pratishtha ceremony is being live telecasted," Bhagwat added. Mohan Bhagwat said that people must adhere to the four stages of dharma as outlined in Shrimad Bhagwat. "Recognising that we are all interconnected and everything belongs to everyone is the key to practising truth. The second stage is that of compassion, wherein we are obligated to serve everyone in society. Cleanliness is the third stage, through which we must promote hygiene. If we maintain self-discipline, the Earth will sustain all human beings. True devotion to Lord Ram involves avoiding greed and practising self-discipline. This brings purity into our lives", he remarked. (ANI)
Talking to the reporters at the Lucknow Airport after attending the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Paswasn said, "It was unbelievable. It is a dream that we Lord Ram devotees have been seeing for a very long time."

The Lok Janshakti Party leader also called himself "fortunate" adding that when you stand in front of the idol of Lord Ram, you will get teary-eyed automatically.

"I feel very fortunate that I got a chance to come here. When you stand in front of that idol of Lord Ram, you will get teary-eyed automatically," he said.

The Ram Lalla idol was unveiled at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony after the hour-long rituals in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who led the rituals.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present inside the sanctorum during the rituals.

As the nation is steeped in joy after the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple, the Saryu Ghat in the 'Ram Nagri' witnessed a captivating 'Aarti' event with several people bowing down to the lord with folded hands.

Meanwhile, a mega 'Deepotsava' was also organised at Saryu Ghat in Ayodhya, with the 'Ram Jyotis' illuminating the city and symbolising the divine presence of Ram Lalla. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar drew an analogy while describing the country's growth in digital public infrastructure and said that the number of cashless transactions the United States does in three years, India does in a month. The EAM was interacting with the people of the Indian community in Nigeria on Sunday (local time). "The life of every Indian citizen has become easier and this is because we have embraced technology in a very deep way. You can see this in payment, very few people today pay in cash and very few people accept cash...Today, we do as many cashless payments in India in a month as much as America does in three years," Jaishankar said at the event. He further highlighted the five major examples that showcase the transformation of India in the last decade. "For me, how a country deals with a challenge, recovers from the challenge, and is able to pose such a strong economic performance, how the life of an average citizen becomes better, how we are capable of something that captures the imagination of the world and how do we look after our people outside the country. These are five true examples of what changed in India in the last decade," Jaishankar said. The EAM also lauded the way India dealt with Covid pandemic while pointing that many countries have still not been able to cope with the impact and highlighting that New Delhi brought back 7 million of its people from abroad. "I take great heart, great hope and great faith from how India dealt with it. When Covid started, during a virtual meeting in 2020, it was said that the country that will be most unable to cope with Covid would be India. Two years later, I saw that we went through the Covid wave, and lockdowns...we started making medicines for the rest of the world," he further said. Stressing that India is the fastest-growing economy in the world, Jaishankar said that business sentiment about New Delhi has improved and as a result, the flow of investments into the country has reached its highest ever. "Today, what is happening in the economy...we are the fastest-growing big economy in the world...but it is much more than that. Today, if you see the economic activity in India, wherever you go, something is being built. A metro is being built, a road is being built, new airports are coming up, new trains are coming up, railway stations are coming up. If you go to your village, piped water is coming up, there is electricity connection coming," Jaishankar said. He added, "There is a sense today that India is being built at a fantastic pace, not just being built, that growth rate actually covers many other things. You can see the flow of investment in India, the highest ever. Look at the business sentiment about India. For me, the real change is the change I see in our own people". Notably, Jaishankar is on a visit to Nigeria from January 21-23. During this, he will co-chair the 6th India-Nigeria Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) with his counterpart and meet with other leaders. Prior to this, he also led the Indian delegation at the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), to be held in Kampala, Uganda. He also met several foreign leaders and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the summit. The EAM will also inaugurate the 3rd edition of the Nigeria-India Business Council meeting, deliver a speech at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, interact with CII Business delegates and inaugurate the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. He will also chair the regional conference of Indian Heads of Missions. India and Nigeria have traditionally enjoyed close and friendly relations. This is EAM's first visit to Nigeria, which will further consolidate bilateral relations between the two countries, the release said. (ANI)
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Sunday released footage of a tunnel in southern Gaza, where Hamas was allegedly holding around 20 hostages at different times, CNN reported. The tunnel was located in the centre of Khan Younis and ran about 830 meters (0.51 miles) at a depth of 20 meters (66 feet), the IDF said. There were booby traps, explosives and various obstacles inside the tunnel, according to the IDF, which said it encountered and killed several Hamas operatives as it entered the tunnel. "This is where Hamas held hostages. IDF soldiers operated in a tunnel located at the heart of a civilian area in Khan Yunis that was used to hold about 20 hostages at different times. The tunnel was about 830 meters long and about 20 meters deep. We cannot and will not rest knowing innocent civilians are being held in compounds like this one. We will not stop operating until we bring the hostages home," IDF posted on X. https://x.com/IDF/status/1749180583584870498?s=20 However, the IDF found no hostages in the tunnel but said, based on testimonies from former hostages and DNA evidence, that about 20 hostages were held in there at different times, some of whom have been released while others remain held in Gaza, CNN reported. The videos shared by the IDF show long tunnels, some of which lead to rooms with mattresses, blankets and food wrappers scattered on the floor, and kitchen and bathroom areas. It also showed photos of a pair of child's drawings, which it said were drawn by five-year-old former hostage Emilia Aloni, according to her family. Aloni and her mother were released in November during a brief truce between Hamas and Israel to allow for the exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. More than 100 hostages were released during the truce, according to CNN. Israel estimates that 132 hostages from the October 7 attacks remain in Gaza -- 25 of whom are believed to be dead. (ANI)
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis on Monday arrived in New Delhi on a five-day visit to India to advance India-UN ties. The UNGA President was received at the airport by India's permanent representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj. "A warm welcome to @UN_PGA Dennis Francis as he arrives in New Delhi on a visit to India. The visit is an opportunity to advance India-UN ties and exchange views on 's priorities and global challenges," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X. The UNGA President is visiting India from January 22-26 at the invitation of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar. Francis recently announced his presidency's priorities to include peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability. The theme of his presidency of the 78th UNGA is "Rebuilding trust and reigniting solidarity." During the visit, the PGA will hold talks with EAM Jaishankar on key multilateral issues of mutual interest. In New Delhi, the PGA will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. He will also attend a round table on India's advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He will also deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on "Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability" on January 24, as per a release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Francis will then travel to Jaipur and Mumbai. In Mumbai, he will pay floral tributes at the 26/11 memorial. PGA's engagements in Mumbai will include a visit to the National Stock Exchange and an address on New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism organized by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF). On January 26, on the occasion of Republic Day, the PGA will participate as a State guest in the Republic Day Parade of Maharashtra. The President's visit to India presents a unique opportunity to strengthen India-UN ties and especially with the General Assembly, which is the most representative organ of the United Nations. Discussions during the visit would include India's call for reforms of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, to make it more equitable and representative with a view to enhancing representation of developing countries. The visit will also be an opportunity to enhance India's collaboration with the United Nations on Indian priorities as well as the global challenges being faced by the Global South, as per the official release. (ANI)
Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Monday met Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Kampala, Uganda, on the sidelines of the Third South Summit. "Pleased to meet President of Sri Lanka, H.E Ranil Wickremesinghe on the sidelines of third South Summit in Kampala, Uganda," MoS Muraleedharan wrote on 'X'. Earlier on Monday, the MoS interacted with the Indian diaspora in Uganda and hailed them for their significant contribution and the unlimited trust and confidence they enjoy from the leadership. Taking to X, the minister spoke about his interaction, saying, "Good to reconnect with Indian community in Uganda. What sets the community apart in Uganda is their significant contribution and the unlimited trust & confidence they enjoy from the leadership. Encouraged them to continue their valuable efforts." During the event, the members of the community also performed a cultural dance and a young child gifted a pencil sketch to the minister. "Commend young Soorya for the beautiful pencil sketch and appreciate community members from Uganda for splendid cultural performances," the minister posted on X. Separately, the minister also held a meeting with the foreign minister of Equatorial Guinea, Simeon Oyono Esono Angue and both leaders affirmed their desire to expand bilateral relations between the two countries. "FM Simeon Oyono Esono Angue of Equatorial Guinea and I had a good meeting on the sidelines of the third South Summit in Kampala, Uganda. A strong desire on both sides to expand bilateral cooperation further," the minister posted on X. On Sunday, MoS Muraleedharan actively participated in diplomatic discussions. In a series of social media posts, Muraleedharan shared insights into his meetings with key representatives from Somalia, Oman, and Botswana. The minister had a "good meeting" with the Deputy Prime Minister of Somalia, Salah Ahmed Jana. Highlighting Jana's affinity for Hindi and India, Muraleedharan discussed various matters aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. Apart from these meetings, Muraleedharan attended the inaugural session of the Third South Summit, where the theme, "Leaving No One Behind," resonated with India's ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the World is One Family. Muraleedharan is on an official visit to the Ugandan capital, Kampala, from January 20-22 to participate in the Third South Summit of the Group of 77 and China (G-77), the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. During his visit, the minister will also deliver India's national statement and hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts, especially from the G-77 member states. As per the official website of the Third South Summit, the Summit aims at boosting South-South cooperation, including in the areas of trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and the digital economy. In Kampala, the 134 Member States will reiterate the message of solidarity, unity, and complementarity of the South and speak with a unified voice to achieve their common goals and objectives. (ANI)
Israeli Consul General to Mumbai Kobbi Shoshani on Monday visited the Shree Ram Mandir in Wadala, Mumbai, said he looks forward to visiting Ayodhya soon. "Looking forward to visit Ayodhya very soon. For today I visited historic Shree Ram Mandir in Wadala, Mumbai," the Israeli Consul General wrote on 'X'. Earlier in the Day Israeli envoy to India Naor Gilon posted a picture of himself with a model of the Shri Ram Janambhoomi Mandir saying "Hearty greetings to the people of India on this auspicious occasion of Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha . This is a historic moment for devotees across the world. I look forward to seeing Ram Mandir in Ayodhya soon; Surely it will be more grand and beautiful than this model I have." Meawhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ramlalla in the newly-built Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya on Monday. The Prime Minister reached Ayodhya earlier in the day to take part in the auspicious ceremony. "The divine moment of Pran Prathishta of Shri Ram Lala in Ayodhya Dham is an emotional moment for everyone. It is my good fortune to be part of this unique programme. Jai Siyaram," PM Modi said in a tweet. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are also attended the ceremony being held at the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses. In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. Near the Mandir is a historic Well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu. (ANI)
Human rights defenders will hold a peace march on January 24 in Washington, DC, to support Sindhi and Baloch activists protesting in Pakistan against the "enforced disappearances" of their loved ones. They will chant slogans and hold banners with messages of solidarity with the families of these defenders. This 'walk' is being organised by the Sindhi Foundation, based in Washington, DC. The protests in Islamabad are being led by Mahrang Baloch, a 30-year-old Baloch activist who is now suffering because her father was killed and her brother was abducted by Pakistani security forces. Meanwhile, T Kumar, former International Advocacy Director at Amnesty International, said, "While all human rights abuses are painful, disappearance can be considered the most painful to those who have disappeared and their families. Successive Pakistani governments have used this gruesome practice, mainly in the Balochistan and Sindh southern provinces, to silence political activists and terrorise their communities." Thousands of families in Sindh and Balochistan have a brother, father, husband, or son killed or "missing" for months, even years, all for the "crime" of standing up for their basic and constitutional human rights. The Pakistani government has declared them "terrorists" and carried out gruesome acts of torture and extrajudicial killings. According to Waheed Baloch, former Speaker of the Balochistan Provincial Assembly, "Balochistan is the black hole of Pakistan, where extrajudicial executions and enforced disappearances are committed with impunity. The current uprising of Baloch masses is the result of 75 years of subjugation, oppression, and exploitation committed by Pakistan's military." The Sindhi Foundation has organised peaceful protests against the enforced disappearances of Sindhis in New York, Ottawa, Geneva, Paris, London and Senegal. "We invite all those who believe in equality and justice to support the demand of the missing persons' families to produce their loved ones who have disappeared," said Sufi Laghari, Executive Director of the Sindhi Foundation. "Please join your voice with those demanding fairness and justice. Amplify their voices by spreading the word about this 'walk'. Let us all stand united in solidarity with the Sindhi and Baloch people," he also said. (ANI)
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian will visit Pakistan on January 29. The announcement of the Foreign Minister's visit to Pakistan comes after tensions escalated between the two nations following Islamabad's retaliatory strikes inside Iran. He will be travelling to Pakistan at the invitation of Pakistan Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, according to Iran and Pakistan joint statement released by Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two nations have also agreed that the ambassadors of both nations will return to their respective posts by January 26. The joint statement reads, "Following the telephonic conversation between the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, it has been mutually agreed that ambassadors of both countries may return to their respective posts by 26 January 2024." "At the invitation of Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian will undertake a visit to Pakistan on 29 January 2024," it added. The tensions between the two nations escalated after Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said that it had undertaken a series of "highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts" in Iran's Siestan-o-Baluchistan. "A number of terrorists were killed during the intelligence-based operation codenamed "Marg Bar Sarmachar," Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. Pakistan's action came after Iran carried out missile and drone strikes to destroy two "important headquarters" of Jaish al-Adl (Army of Justice) in Pakistan, which Islamabad said killed two children and injured three girls. Two "important headquarters" of Jaish al-Adl (Army of Justice) in Pakistan were "destroyed," Al Arabiya News reported citing Tasnim News Agency. Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that in its engagements with the neighbouring country Iran over the last several years, Islamabad has consistently shared its serious concerns about the safe havens and sanctuaries enjoyed by Pakistani-origin terrorists who called themselves "Sarmachars" on the ungoverned spaces inside Iran. Pakistan said it also shared multiple dossiers with concrete evidence of the presence and activities of these terrorists. "However, because of a lack of action on our serious concerns, these so-called Sarmachars continued to spill the blood of innocent Pakistanis with impunity. This morning's action was taken in light of credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities by these so-called Sarmachars," it said. The statement said, "This action is a manifestation of Pakistan's unflinching resolve to protect and defend its national security against all threats. The successful execution of this highly complex operation is also a testimony to the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces. Pakistan will continue to take all necessary steps to preserve the safety and security of its people which is sacrosanct, inviolable and sacred." Pakistan said it fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran and the strike's sole objective was in pursuit of Pakistan's own security and national interest which is paramount and cannot be compromised. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Pakistan's drone attack on non-Iranian villagers on the border of the two nations, calling it "unbalanced and unacceptable." It said Iran adheres to the policy of "good neighbourliness and brotherhood" between two nations and does not allow enemies to strain the ties between Tehran and Islamabad. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran condemns Pakistan's unbalanced and unacceptable drone attack on non-Iranian villagers on the border of the two countries," the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. "At the same time, the Islamic Republic of Iran adheres to the policy of good neighbourliness and brotherhood between the two nations and the two governments of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan. It does not allow enemies to strain the amicable and brotherly relations of Tehran and Islamabad," it added. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], January 22 (ANI/TPS): The Israel Police arrested 14 suspects on charges of trafficking in entry permits to Israel for Palestinians for a fee. The 14 were indicted on the charges after an investigation was conducted by the police together with the military and Israel's tax authority. The indictments came, said the police, after a yearlong investigation against a number of suspects, including a number of officers and soldiers in active and retired service, on suspicion of issuing entry permits to Israel to Palestinians on a large scale for payment of thousands of shekels. The police investigation revealed that the main suspect in the affair, a 53-year-old resident of Sakhnin, traded entry permits to Palestinians for money through his son, who is a soldier in career service serving at the Sha'ar Ephraim border crossing, which is located east of Netanya near Tulkarm. The entry permits were granted under the pretext of entering Israel for agricultural work. The investigation, reported the police, also revealed that the suspect operated a network of Palestinian and Israeli intermediaries whose job it was to locate Palestinians interested in entry permits to Israel and collect the payment for them. (ANI/TPS)
Dennis Francis, the president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), paid a 'solemn tribute' to the 'Father of the Nation' at his final resting place, Rajghat, in the national capital on Monday. His commemoration was significant as several global dignitaries honoured the enduring legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. "A solemn tribute to Bapu! @UN_PGA Dennis Francis laid a wreath at Rajghat and paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi. Mahatma's timeless ideals hold relevance for entire humanity," the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, posted from his X handle. India's permanent representative to the UN, Ruchira Kamboj, was also present as the UNGA president laid floral tributes at the Mahatma's memorial. In his role as the president of the UN General Assembly, Francis laid a wreath at the memorial, signifying the acknowledgement of the international community of the Mahatma's enduring impact on peace, non-violence and human rights. On his arrival on Monday morning, Francis expressed his happiness amid the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya, saying he was looking forward to discussing peace and progress of the country. The UNGA President said, "Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its 'Second Diwali'. "Namaste, Bharat! Delighted to arrive in New Delhi on an auspicious day when the country is celebrating its 'Second Diwali'. Looking forward to fruitful discussions over the next few days on Peace, Progress, Prosperity and Sustainability!" the UNGA president posted from his official X handle. Francis arrived in New Delhi on a five-day visit during which he would focus on advancing the India-UN ties. The UNGA President was received at the airport by India's permanent representative to the world body, Kamboj. He is visiting India at the invitation of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The UNGA chief will conclude his visit on Republic Day, January 26. The theme of his presidency of the 78th UNGA is 'Rebuilding trust and reigniting solidarity'. Over the course of his India visit, Francis will hold talks with EAM Jaishankar on key multilateral issues of mutual interest. In New Delhi, he will also attend a round table on India's advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) while also delivering a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on 'Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability' on January 24, according to an official release by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Francis will then travel to Jaipur and Mumbai. In Mumbai, he will pay floral tributes at the memorial in honour of the victims of the 26/11 terror attacks. His engagements in Mumbai will include a visit to the National Stock Exchange and an address on New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism organized by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), according to the MEA release. On January 26, the concluding day of his visit, Francis will participate as a state guest at the Republic Day Parade in Maharashtra. The UNGA President's visit to India presents a unique opportunity to strengthen ties with the UN in general and the General Assembly in particular, which is considered to be the most representative organ of the world body. Discussions during his visit would revolve around India's call for reforms at the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, to make it more equitable and representative with a view to enhancing the representation of developing countries. The visit will also be an opportunity to enhance India's collaboration with the United Nations on Indian priorities as well as the global challenges being faced by the Global South, according to the official MEA release. (ANI)
The Indian community in Japan celebrated the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya. The pictures and videos shared by the Indian Embassy in Japan showed Indian community members virtually watching the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple. In a post shared on X, the Indian Embassy in Japan stated, "Indian community in Japan celebrates "Pran Pratishtha" ceremony of Shree Ram Janam Bhoomi Temple in Ayodhya by Hon'ble Prime Minister." The idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled on Monday at Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple in Ayodhya in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi led rituals at the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple. Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers showered flower petals over Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple premises in Ayodhya as the idol of Ram Lalla was unveiled.Devotees and guests chanted 'Jai Shree Ram' as the ceremony was held. RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present at the ceremony. The magnificent Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir is constructed in traditional Nagara style. Its length (east-west) is 380 feet; width 250 feet and height is 161 feet; and is supported by a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. The pillars and walls of the temple showcase intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities, gods, and goddesses.In the main sanctum sanctorum at ground floor, the childhood form of Bhagwan Shri Ram (the idol of Shri Ramlalla) has been placed. The main entrance to the Mandir is situated on the eastern side, which can be approached by ascending 32 stairs through the Singh Dwar. There are a total of five Mandaps (Halls) in the Mandir - Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prathana Mandap and Kirtan Mandap. Near the Mandir is a historic well (Sita koop), dating back to the ancient era. In the southwestern part of the Mandir complex, at Kuber Tila, the ancient Mandir of Bhagwan Shiv has been restored, along with the installation of a statue of Jatayu. While addressing the dignitaries invited to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, PM Modi said the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol is not only a moment of triumph after a prolonged struggle but also one of humility. "This is not just a moment of celebration for us all but also one to reflect the coming of age of the Indian society. This occasion is as much about triumph as it is about humility. The world is replete with instances of countries that faced a lot of difficulties resolving historic wrongs and injustices. However, the way we untied the knots and resolved all outstanding issues gives us hope that our future is going to be more beautiful and fulfilling than our past," PM Modi said. The PM said that the construction of the temple, which some feared would set off a firestorm, now stands as a symbol of peace, patience, harmony and integration. "There was also a time when some people used to say 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi' (the making of the Ram Temple would set off a firestorm). Such people lacked an understanding of the purity of our society, the spirit that binds us all. This majestic abode of Shri Ram Lalla will now stand as a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and social unity. The construction of this temple did not set off a fire but exuded a positive energy that has been infectious for us all," he added. He added that the Ayodhya temple also testifies to a renewed national consciousness of Lord Ram and his place in our everyday lives. (ANI)
"Congratulations on the consecration ceremony of the #RamTemple in #Ayodhya," the Korean Embassy in India said in a post on X.

The post also highlighted the deep-rooted historical connection between Ayodhya and Gaya, dating back to the year 48 AD when Queen Sriratna, also known as Heo Hwang-ok, married King Kim Suro.

"The place holds great symbolic importance for Korea-India relations based on the matrimonial link between Queen #Sriratna (Heo Hwang-ok) from Ayodhya and King Kim Suro from Gaya (Korea) in 48 AD," the embassy's post added.

Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Ayodhya to take part in the auspicious ceremony. The Ram Lalla idol was unveiled during the Pran Pratishtha ceremony after the hour-long rituals in the presence of PM Modi who led the rituals.

Ayodhya and Korea have a deep historical connection through Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya, who travelled to Korea in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro.

In Korea's ancient history book, it's written that a princess from Ayodhya married the Korean king Kim Suro. In archaeological findings from the king's tomb, artefacts belonging to Ayodhya have been found.

Kim Jung-Sook, who served as first lady of South Korea from 2017 to 2022, was in Ayodhya in November 2018 as the state guest for Deepotsav - grand celebrations of the Diwali festivities.

She was also the chief guest at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna (Heo Hwang-ok) Memorial in Ayodhya on the same day, according to MEA.

PM Modi also met Sook during her visit in 2018. In their meeting, PM Modi and the South Korean First Lady discussed the deep civilizational and spiritual links between India and South Korea, and exchanged views on promoting people-to-people exchanges. (ANI)
Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, a Stanford University graduate from Hollywood who has been residing at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh for nearly 30 years, led the crowd of hundreds here to celebrate the ''Pran Pratishtha'' of Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. The vibrant celebrations were marked by triumphant chants of ''Jai Shree Ram'' and ''Bharat Mata Ki Jai''. Addressing members of the Indian diaspora, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati said the celebratory event marks not only the opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya but a ''Rashtra Temple'', symbolising the country''s unity. "Back home today, we have opened not just a Ram Temple but also a Rashtra Temple. It will stand as a temple of unity. This is the temple for which we waited for over 500 years," she said. Underlining the significance of the occasion, she added, "Ram devotees across generations had been waiting for this day. It has finally arrived after more than 500 years." The celebration drew hundreds of Indians to Times Square, as they waved saffron flags and joined in the collective joy. The cultural festivities included dance performances, adding to the vibrancy and festive ambience around the event. As the ''Pran Pratishtha'' ceremony unfolded, army choppers were pictured showering petals on the temple. PM Modi also showered petals on workers, who were a part of the construction team that shaped the grand Ram Temple. He was also seen sprinkling flowers on the idol of Jatayu at the Ram Temple premises and also offered prayers to Lord Shiva in Ayodhya Dham. While addressing the dignitaries invited to the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, PM Modi said the unveiling of the Ram Lalla idol is not only a moment of triumph after a prolonged struggle but also one of humility. "This is not just a moment of celebration for us all but also one to reflect the coming of age of the Indian society. This occasion is as much about triumph as it is about humility. The world is replete with instances of countries that faced a lot of difficulties resolving historic wrongs and injustices. However, the way we untied the knots and resolved all outstanding issues gives us hope that our future is going to be more beautiful and fulfilling than our past," PM Modi said. The PM said that the construction of the temple, which some feared would set off a firestorm, now stands as a symbol of peace, patience, harmony and integration. "There was also a time when some people used to say ''Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi'' (the making of the Ram Temple would set off a firestorm). Such people lacked an understanding of the purity of our society, the spirit that binds us all. This majestic abode of Shri Ram Lalla will now stand as a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and social unity. The construction of this temple did not set off a fire but exuded a positive energy that has been infectious for us all," he added. He added that the Ayodhya temple also testifies to a renewed national consciousness of Lord Ram and his place in our everyday lives. The Ram Lalla idol was unveiled during the grand ''Pran Pratishtha'', which involved hour-long rituals led by Prime Minister Modi. (ANI)
One person was killed, and two more were injured in Russia's morning missile attack against Kramatorsk in Donetsk Oblast, according to the latest update by Vadym Filashkin, the regional governor.

Russian forces fired an Iskander missile at the eastern city in the morning of Jan. 22, damaging seven apartment buildings, three enterprises, and three social infrastructure facilities, Filashkin said on Facebook.

"The wounded have received the necessary medical assistance and do not require hospital treatment," the oblast governor added.

Filaskhin previously reported that the attack killed a 49-year-old man and wounded his 31-year-old daughter. In the latest update, he didn't specify who the second injured person was.

Kramatorsk lies some 55 kilometers from the front line in Donetsk Oblast. It has been a way station for Ukrainian troops, making it a frequent target of Russian missiles.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A man died Sunday morning in a collision at a busy north St. Louis County intersection.

According to Sgt. Tracy Panus, a spokeswoman for the St. Louis County Police Department, the crash occurred just after 8:25 a.m. at New Halls Ferry and Dunn roads, just north of the Interstate 270 overpass.

Police claim two vehicles were involved: a Toyota Corolla and a Ford F-250. The Corolla was traveling southbound on New Halls Ferry, while the F-250 was headed northbound.

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The driver of the Ford F-250 was turning west onto Dunn when the vehicles struck one another.

Police said the driver of the Toyota was rushed to a local hospital but later died of his injuries. The driver of the F-250 was not injured.

There were no passengers in either vehicle, Panus said.

Police have not released the name of the victim, pending notification of family members.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Ten people were arrested in a joint investigation into a conspiracy to traffic drugs and guns in Albany, Georgia.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Albany Dougherty County Drug Unit, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms worked together on the investigation for six months before the suspects were arrested.

Police seized 27 firearms, including shotguns, handguns, and rifles.

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Several of the rifles were fully automatic weapons.

Over 1,830 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 2.3 grams of suspected heroin, and suspected oxycodone pills were seized.

The ten suspects, ranging in age from 26 to 42, are facing drug trafficking charges. Some of them are also facing weapons charges.

Police have issued arrest warrants for two other people suspected of trafficking cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine.

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Members of the Minnesota State Patrol were reunited this month with a man whose life they helped save by racing a new heart about an hour away for transplant surgery.

John Neuenschwander, the 73-year-old transplant recipient, met with Lt. Mitch Elzen and troopers Quentin OReilly and Mike Pevear on Jan 2., months after they drove his new heart from the Twin Cities area to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

The meeting came months after Neuenschwander went to the hospital in late October in cardiogenic shock.

His heart wasnt pumping enough blood to keep his organs functioning properly, said Dr. Mauricio Villavicencio, surgical director of the Heart and Lung Transplant Program at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.

John Neuenschwander meeting with Minnesota state troopers and a lieutenant who transported a heart he needed for a transplant in October 2023. The group met on Jan. 2, 2024 after Neuenschwander recovered.

He needed a heart transplant and Villavicencio knew time was of the essence since surgeons have about four hours after a heart is removed to give it to another patient.

Villavicencio reached out to the Minnesota State Patrol to see what they could do to help them get the heart to his facility. He spoke to MSP dispatchers, who relayed information to Elzen, the on-call supervisor that night.

The call came in one Sunday evening, Elzen told USA TODAY.

Normally, medical staff will travel in one vehicle while state troopers drive close by to escort them. The medical crew transporting the heart during evening rush hour that night got stuck on a stretch of highway, a spokesperson from the Mayo Clinic said.

Lt. Elzen didnt think being in separate vehicles was the safest option this time around, so he suggested medical staff ride in the back of patrol vehicles so state troopers could drive them there quickly and safely.

An entrance at the Mayo Clinic.

There's a lot of construction going on this summer and this fall, Elzen told USA TODAY on Friday morning. They didn't have a whole lot of time. They were already running behind on time trying to get that heart down to Rochester ASAP and get it implanted in the recipient.

Elzen checked in with troopers to see who was available to help and looped in trooper Pevear, who was about 2 miles away from where medical staff was waiting in the metro area with the heart.

Transporting a heart was a new task for state troopers

Trooper Pevear was the first to meet medical staff and transport the heart. He spoke to trooper OReilly to coordinate a meetup.

He let the medical transport company know where he was and turned his emergency lights on so they could find him. Once the medical transport company arrived with the heart, the employee got into Pevear's car with the heart in tow and they took off.

I was on the first leg and then I made my way down to the district line, which is in Cannon Falls, Pevear said. That's where me and Quentin met up and we took it out of my car and put it in Quentins car.

Theyve helped transport blood before but never a heart, the troopers said.

A medical staff member and a state trooper lifting a live human heart into a patrol car in Oct. 2023 so they could take it to Rochester, Minn. for heart transplant surgery.

Pevear said the experience was different and kind of surreal.

Traveling between 80 and 100 miles per hour with their lights flashing and sirens blaring, they were able to get to Rochester safely and quickly. Trooper OReilly and the medical transport employee he was escorting to the Mayo Clinic just over an hour after his lieutenant got the call.

Troopers, lieutenant reunite with heart recipient

The lieutenant and troopers met Neuenschwander on Jan. 2 after he recovered.

OReilly, one of the troopers, said it was great that they got to meet him and it was nice to see that hes healthy and doing well.

Thankfully, we're trained to drive fast and safely and it turned out to be something super great for the patient because now hes healthy and on the mend, OReilly told USA TODAY Friday morning. We were in the position where we were  just a quick few phone calls away.

Left to right: Trooper Quentin OReilly, Lt. Mitch Elzen, John Neuenschwander and Trooper Mike Pevear.

Elzen, the supervisor that night, said the team did a small part in the process. The real credit, he said, should go to the doctors, who thanked them in return.

We really appreciate what they did and the services that they provide  that resulted in a new life for a human being," said Villavicencio, the surgical director who made the call. "Every transport counts and this one was very successful thanks to them.

Heart recipient is grateful for the people who made his transplant happen

Neuenschwander, the patient in need of the heart transplant in late October, grew up in Fessenden, a small town in central North Dakota, where he had a pretty colorful childhood with lots of adventure.

He first began having health issues in 1984, when he was in his 30s. He was often exhausted and experienced shortness of breath.

Hes glad his new heart was able to be delivered safely to the hospital in Rochester that night and said it takes a village to get things done.

The time was limited, he said. My heart was failing and hearts only last so long.

He is full of gratitude for his heart donor who gave him a new chance at life, medical professionals in the Sanford health system in Fargo, North Dakota, where he lives and the MSP staff who transported his heart to Rochester.

Hes also thankful for the doctors at the Mayo Clinic, who he calls the gold standard for healthcare in the country."

A self-proclaimed energizer bunny, Neuenschwander said hes spending time reading these days and finding purpose.

He has challenged himself to live by a new philosophy. More meaning and less tasks.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Minnesota troopers deliver new heart for transplant recipient
A 13-year-old boy died in a hospital 10 days after he was run over while sledding, Iowa police say.

Adam McWherter was struck by a GMC Envoy when his sled went downhill and entered an Anamosa road Jan. 10, according to Iowa State Patrol.

The 49-year-old driver of the SUV hit the brakes of his vehicle, but the Envoy was unable to stop in time, authorities told WHO13. The SUV kept sliding after the collision and crashed into a ditch.

He was not alone and received care very quickly but was instantly knocked unconscious, said the organizer of a GoFundMe, who added that Adam was on a snow day from school. His pulse was faint and did fade away. Paramedics were able to get his heart restarted after about 20 minutes with him in the ambulance at the base of our driveway.

Adam was hospitalized, where doctors learned he had a broken clavicle, pelvic bone fracture, strained ligament in his neck and a spinal fracture, according to the GoFundMe. Additionally, he had bleeding in his skull and blood in his lungs.

State patrol said Adam died Saturday, Jan. 20.

Adam was a member of the Anamosa Wrestling Club, according to a Facebook post.

The well-being of our AWC family members is at the core of what makes our AWC family so special, the wrestling club said. In times of joy, we celebrate together, and in times of sorrow, we lean on each other for support.

Anamosa is about 25 miles northeast of Cedar Rapids.

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(KRON)  A suspect was arrested Sunday for attempted murder after a shooting at a Half Moon Bay housing complex, the San Mateo County Sheriffs Office (SMCSO) said in a news release. The shooting happened around 7:09 p.m. Saturday in the Moonridge Housing Community.

A male victim was seen with multiple gunshot wounds, authorities said. He was taken to the hospital, and his condition is unknown at this time.

Detectives believe the shooting was an isolated incident.

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The affordable housing complex, located at 2001 Miramontes Point Road, is known to be the home for farmworker families in the county. It consists of 80 units, according to MidPen Housing, the agency that coordinates housing services for these families.

The suspect was identified as Orlando Montelongochavarin, 18, of San Mateo County. After working through the night on the case, SMCSO detectives issued a warrant for his arrest on Sunday. Detectives located Montelongochavarin a short time later after the warrant was issued and was taken into custody without incident.

Almost a year ago to the day, a mass shooting in Half Moon Bay killed seven people. The location of Saturdays shooting is approximately seven miles away from the Jan. 23, 2023 mass shooting.

President Joe Biden posted on social media Sunday, honoring the seven victims in the Half Moon Bay mass shooting. Jill and I pray for the families of the victims, Biden wrote on X.

Half Moon Bay mayor reflects on deadly mass shooting

SMCSO says anyone with information about Saturday nights shooting is asked to contact Detective E. Storch at 650-366-4057 or email estorch@smcgov.org. Anonymous callers can contact SMCSO at 1-800-547-2700.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
An 18-year-old had to be extricated from his vehicle after crashing head-on into a deputys patrol car, police said.

Elkhart County Sheriffs Office Patrolman Richard Jasinski was traveling southbound on a two-lane road at about 1 a.m. Jan. 21 when the driver of a 2012 Chevrolet Impala, traveling northbound, crossed the centerline and struck his vehicle head-on, according to a news release from Indiana State Police.

The driver of the Impala was taken and admitted to a hospital with serious, non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

Jasinski was taken to the hospital for treatment and released, according to police.

Police said they are awaiting official toxicology results, but alcohol is believed to be a factor in this crash, according to the release.

Indiana State Police said they are investigating the incident.

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MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  Two 16-year-old boys were arrested after they allegedly demanded money from a person outside of a Mobile gas station.

Officers were called to a Shell Gas Station on Michigan Avenue Saturday afternoon for a report of a robbery, according to a news release from the Mobile Police Department.

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Officers arrived and found that two unknown males had walked up to the victim in the parking lot of the gas station and demanded their personal belongings. The victim refused and went inside the store to call police, according to the release.

The 16-year-old subjects were found and taken into police custody. They were taken to Mobile Metro Jail.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
Authorities are investigating a shooting that left two people dead.

Columbus police said on Friday at 3:52 p.m., officers received reports of a person shot on Wise Street near Key Elementary School.

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When officers arrived, they located 34-year-old Theodore Alexander and 21-year-old Troyverion Williams, who had both been shot.

Authorities confirmed that both shooting victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators told WTVM that one victim was found in a vehicle and the other was found in the front yard of a nearby home.

It is unclear if anyone has been taken into custody at this time.

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No further information has been released regarding the investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this shooting is asked to contact Corporal R. Vardman at 706-225-4257.

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Two U.S. Navy SEALs lost in nighttime seas during a raid on a small boat off Somalia were declared dead Sunday.

The 10-day mission has shifted from search and rescue to recovery, U.S. Central Command said in a statement.

"We regret to announce that after a 10-day exhaustive search, our two missing U.S. Navy SEALs have not been located and their status has been changed to deceased," it said.

The two were not publicly identified, and CENTCOM said no further information would be made immediately available out of respect for their families.

Two U.S. defense officials said one of the SEALs had tried to board the vessel amid rough seas and fell into the water. The second dived in after the first, as is protocol, the officials said.

The vessel, known as a dhow, was carrying "Iranian advanced conventional weapons" as the raid took place Jan. 11, CENTCOM said Sunday.

We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example," Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla said in CENTCOM's statement. "Our prayers are with the SEALs families, friends, the U.S. Navy, and the entire Special Operations community during this time."

Somalias coastline includes the Gulf of Aden, the Guardafui Channel and the Indian Ocean. U.S. military officials, who did not give the exact location of the incident, said personnel from the U.S., Japan and Spain searched more than 21,000 miles of surface.

Assistance included help from the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command, the University of California, San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the Office of Naval Research's Oceanographic Support wing.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said someone shot a boy and another person in Northeast Monday afternoon, leaving one of them dead.

MPD said it happened in the 4700 block of Minnesota Ave. NE around 3:35 p.m. The location of the shooting is near the Deanwood Metro Station.

He was a saint: Communities remember volunteer shot, killed in DC

Medics took the boy who was hurt to the hospital. MPD said he was conscious at the time.

Police later said a second person, an older teenager, also was hit by gunfire. That person was unconscious and was not breathing when officers got there.

Police later said one of the people died.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Tuesdays arrest of a man suspected in the November murder of Doral resident Jose Luis Sanchez Valera left police looking for two more male suspects and two women whom police believe lured Sanchez to a Miami airport hotel.

And the murder and ensuing home invasion could be the latest violence from Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

READ MORE: This bloodthirsty Venezuelan gang has caused havoc in Latin America. Now its in Miami

The gangs named in police reports describing 23-year-old Yurwin Salazar-Maitas alleged role in the Nov. 28 killing of Sanchez. Arrest documents place Salazar as a Tren member and say he and four cronies ended Sanchezs life while robbing his house in a kidnap-robbery-murder series of violence for which Tren is known in Venezuela. One of the home invaders, arrest document reveals, bragged to Sanchezs roommate that they were from Tren de Aragua.

On Tuesday in Broward, Salazar became the first of five suspects arrested in connection with Sanchezs murder. He entered a not guilty plea Wednesday in Miami-Dade to first degree murder, kidnapping, carjacking and home invasion in addition to firearm charges. With no bond granted, hell remain a guest of Miami-Dade Corrections until his criminal case completes.

Meanwhile, Miami-Dade police are looking for Yorvi Jose Arenas Lezama and Julio Cesar Hernandez Montero, as the other violence-committing members of the quintet.

Yorvi Jose Arenas Lezama

Julio Cesar Herandez Montero

Additionally, theyre looking for Yordalys Henriquez and Yoleidy Ilarraza.

Yordalys Hernandez

Yoleidy Ilarraza

Crime Stoppers of Miami-Dade & the Florida Keys released photos of the four on Thursday. Anyone with information on their whereabouts who wants to remain anonymous, but be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000 can reach out to Crime Stoppers either online or at 305-471-8477 (TIPS).

Henriquez and Ilarraza, police say, played the bait role.

Sanchez went to a hotel. He never came home

Around 10 p.m. on Nov. 27, arrest paperwork shows, Sanchez left Doral for the Miami Airport East location of La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, 3501 NW LeJeune Rd. He came out of room 310 after about four hours with two women. Sanchez left by the hotels side exit while the women continued on through the hotel lobby.

Once Sanchez got into his 2018 Toyota 4Runner, according to a Miami-Dade detectives affidavit, three people in dark clothes jumped out of a silver sedan parked near the Toyota, yanked Sanchez out of the front seat and shoved him into the back seat.

Surveillance cameras caught the Toyota leaving the parking lot with the three dark-clothed people in the front seat, and returning later with one of them getting into the silver sedan. Sanchez would be found the next day in his car with tape around his body, hands and feet. The medical examiner ruled death by mechanical asphyxiation.

Mechanical asphyxiation is when an object or a physical force stops you from breathing, the Cleveland Clinic explains. It also includes body positions that may prevent you from breathing.

As Sanchez slowly died, his apartment got hit with a home invasion. The robbers got jewelry from Sanchezs roommate as well as a bedroom closet safe before police say they left in a silver sedan.

Per arrest paperwork, Salazars fingerprints were in the Toyota.

El Nuevo Herald reporter Antonio Maria Delgado contributed information to this report

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Two Navy SEALs are presumed dead, the U.S. announced Sunday night, after they were reported missing at sea 10 days ago during a mission to raid a ship with Iranian weapons off the coast of Somalia.

In a statement, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said it regrets that the two servicemen have not been located and that it is shifting its focus from search and rescue to recovery operations. The names of the SEALs have not been released.

We mourn the loss of our two Naval Special Warfare warriors, and we will forever honor their sacrifice and example, said CENTCOM Commander Gen. Erik Kurilla. Our prayers are with the SEALs families, friends, the U.S. Navy and the entire Special Operations community during this time.

The two SEALs disappeared after a nighttime operation on Jan. 11, during which Navy forces raided an unflagged dhow carrying Iranian advanced conventional weapons to resupply the Houthi rebels in Yemen responsible for ongoing attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea since October.

Read More: Howand WhyYemens Houthi Rebels Are Poised to Seriously Disrupt the Global Economy

It is clear that Iran continues shipment of advanced lethal aid to the Houthis. This is yet another example of how Iran actively sows instability throughout the region in direct violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law, said Kurilla after the operation was initially publicized.

Dispatched from the mobile base USS Lewis B. Puller, the Navy forces boarded the dhow aided by helicopters and drones. Officials have told media that, during the boarding, one of the SEALs fell into the sea and the other went in after in an attempt to save his crewmate.

The SEALs stands for the Navys Sea, Air, and Land Teams, the military branchs primary special operations force.

Ships and aircraft from the U.S., Japan, and Spain searched more than 21,000 sq. mi. to try to locate the missing SEALs, CENTCOM said, with additional assistance from the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command, the Scripts Institute of Oceanography, and the Office of Naval Researchs oceanographic support wing.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Twenty people were stranded on an ice floe on Lake Erie in chilly temperatures a half-mile from Ohio on Monday, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. All of them safely made it back to land, and no injuries were reported.

Airboats from a Coast Guard station in Marblehead, Ohio, rescued nine people from the ice, and local authorities rescued four people, the Coast Guard said on social media. The other seven people were able to repair their airboat and make it back to land, according to the agency.

Early Monday afternoon, the temperature at Toledo Executive Airport near Lake Erie was 21 degrees Fahrenheit with the wind chill factor, according to the National Weather Service.

Authorities rush to rescue 20 people who were stranded on an ice floe on Lake Erie, Jan. 22, 2024. / Credit: Billy Rigoni

The incident was reported to authorities at 10:21 a.m. EST, according to the Coast Guard. The stranded group was half a mile from the shore near Ohio's Catawba Island State Park.

An ice floe is a floating sheet of ice that breaks away from a larger ice formation.

"Some individuals may be unaware that they are on a drifting ice floe," the Coast Guard said on social media. " These can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially in areas subject to winds or currents, leading to drift into open waters."

A helicopter, an all-terrain vehicle and three airboats were deployed to help the stranded group, the Coast Guard said.

At 12:41 p.m., the agency reported on social media that everyone had made it ashore.

Lake Erie is 241 miles long and 57 miles wide, according to the Great Lakes Commission. Its coastline touches Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and the Canadian province of Ontario.

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Yahoo Sports

Of course we have to do winners and losers for the first week of NFL free agency. No better co-host than Dalton Del Don to join Matt Harmon on this traditional endeavor. Del Don and Harmon identify which teams, players and fantasy ecosystems improved the most this week and which took a step back.
Police are searching for three people they said robbed and assaulted a man in southwest Atlanta.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

At 11:07 a.m., Atlanta officers responded to a robbery call on May 18, 2023, at 1631 Stanton Road.

The address appears to be the Aspen Court Apartments.

When officers arrived, the victim told them, he was walking outside the apartments, when he was approached by three men who demanded that he give them the key to his 2010 Hyundai Elantra.

TRENDING STORIES:

The suspects then reportedly punched the victim and threw him to the ground. APD said the victim told officers that shortly after the assault, the suspects stole his car.

The suspects drove away before authorities arrived. Officials shared photos of one of the suspects.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Anyone with information on the case can submit a tip anonymously to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577- 8477, online or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIMES (274637). Tipsters can remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward of up to $2,000.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Durham school leaders hope to let over a thousand employees who received raises by mistake keep the money, the chair of the school board said Monday.

As another week starts in Durham Public Schools, the Board of Education met in private in a downtown board room to discuss paycheck problems that derailed school activities last week.

Many classified staff  including bus mechanics, physical therapists, cafeteria workers and groundskeepers  skipped work last week, plunged into a financial panic over whether theyll get to keep raises promised last year.

Neither teachers nor bus drivers were directly affected, but some drivers chose not to drive their routes in solidarity.

That has prompted confusion since Wednesday, as school officials urge parents to figure out how to get their kids to and from school each day.

Here are the five top takeaways so far:

The salary issues

Employees were expecting raises approved in 2023 to take effect at the start of this school year.

The raises didnt start showing up until October, although the pay bumps were promised to be retroactive.

Monthly paychecks were expected to vary dramatically over the past four months, with the raises, retroactive pay, holiday bonuses and new benefits selections all affecting the numbers workers saw on their pay stubs.

Were not going to have consistent checks for a while, school board member Natalie Beyer warned in an October board meeting. I feel like we cant overcommunicate that.

But some workers may not be getting raises, or as big a raise as they thought, after all. The district said in mid-January that accounting errors had occurred and some classified staff had been overpaid for months.

A spokesperson said 1,300 employees were being reclassified and would be paid according to their experience solely with Durham Public Schools. Pay steps used to also count relevant experience from the private sector and other school districts.

What that means: Five years of experience with DPS and five years of experience with a private school previously placed someone on Step 10. Now the same employee would be on Step 5, potentially erasing hundreds or thousands of dollars from monthly paychecks.

The school board statement

Board of Education Chair Bettina Umstead did not take questions but issued a statement at 2:30 p.m. Monday.

The statement came after a three-hour school board meeting that began at 8 a.m. and a 90-minute meeting between transportation workers and Superintendent Pascal Mubenga that started at noon.

Media was barred from both meetings.

In the statement, Umstead apologized and said the board hopes to let employees keep any money they were overpaid.

We have asked administration to identify sufficient funds by Thursdays board meeting that will allow employees to keep all pay received through Dec. 31, 2023 and to be paid at the same rate for January 2024., she said.





She did not say how much money that would take.

The rally planned for Thursday

School employees are very upset, and they should be, Durham Association of Educators President Symone Kiddoo said in a video statementy. The disrespect has been felt by all staff, not just the classified workers whose pay was affected.

Kiddoo said some workers have made big financial decisions based on the expected raises, like buying a new car.

The association, which has no collective bargaining power under North Carolina law, is not yet calling for a work stoppage.

It is, however, calling for a rally on Thursday outside the Board of Education meeting.

Supporters are asked to gather at 5:30 p.m. at 2107 Hillandale Road.

The school board is meeting in closed session at 5 p.m. then in a regularly scheduled open meeting at 6:30 p.m. No agenda has been published, but public comment is traditionally allowed in-person.

The association has three core demands: no clawbacks of money already paid; no changes to January paychecks; and greater transparency and a seat at the table during decision-making.

The DPS financial officer suspended

The districts chief financial officer, Paul LeSieur, was suspended with pay last week, a spokesperson confirmed.

LeSieur remains suspended as of Monday. He has been with DPS since 2010.

Mubenga, who was hired in 2017, has apologized repeatedly to staff and parents.

Mubenga met with about 40 transportation employees downtown Monday.

Workers left the lengthy meeting in unison. They declined to speak with reporters, but said they were confident in the superintendent and looking forward to the boards statement.

Pascal Mubenga receives applause after being sworn in as the new superintendent of Durham Public Schools in by District Court Judge Shamieka L. Rhinehart on Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Durham, NC.

The school district investigation

The school district stopped answering questions about the matter last week, saying an active investigation is underway by its attorneys at Tharrington Smith

Due to the sensitive and critical nature of this matter, we are not able to provide any further public statements to the media, an emailed statement read.

Umstead said an outside financial consultant will also investigate.
Five children died in a devastating house fire, Indiana authorities said.

The fire at the South Bend home was reported at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21, WNDU said. Upon arrival, crews discovered intense flames had engulfed both floors of the home, according to the fire department.

Firefighters said they encountered overwhelming heat and smoke as they battled the fire from within. They went inside to rescue some of the victims, who were trapped on the second floor.

But five of the people  all children  were pronounced dead after being removed from the home, the fire department said. Their ages were not disclosed as of Monday afternoon.

A survivor was taken to a burn center in Indianapolis, but their age and identity are unknown.

As we mourn the lives lost, we also extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this tragedy, Gerard Ellis, the assistant chief of fire prevention for the department, said in a news release.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, the fire department said.

Officials said one firefighter was also injured when he fell through the second floor onto the first floor. He was taken to the hospital but has since been released and is recovering at home.

The firefighters of Engine 2, in their unyielding commitment to protect and serve, exhibited a profound disregard for their own safety in the face of extreme danger, the department said. Their actions reflect the highest ideals of selflessness and a citizens-first ethos, characteristics emblematic of the bravery inherent in our citys first responders.

South Bend is about 95 miles southeast of Chicago.
The Humane Society of Missouris Animal Cruelty Task Force rescued 55 dogs and puppies from a property where they were left to starve and freeze, the group said.

The dogs were found tied up, malnourished and left outside in temperatures as low as the teens, according to a Jan. 20 news release from the Humane Society of Missouri.

Rescuers also discovered the remains of 15 dogs and five goats among which the surviving dogs were living, the release said. Necropsies will be performed to determine their causes of death, officials said.

The rescue operation was prompted by calls from concerned residents and the Stone County Sheriffs Office, according to the release.

The property owner surrendered the dogs and was arrested by the Stone County Sheriffs Office, the group said.

Each pup leaned into us and seemed to say thank you, the Humane Society of Missouri said in a Jan. 21 Facebook post.

The dogs rushed to their food and water bowls and then immediately curled up to sleep, the group said. They knew they were warm and safe. There were so many grateful faces.

The humane society said the best way to help is to adopt, according to the post. When you adopt you free up a kennel for another pup who needs it just as badly, the group said.

The dogs will be available for adoption following veterinary evaluation, officials said.

Without immediate intervention I dont know how many more of these animals would have died, human society President Kathy Warnick said in the release. Now that they are safe, we hope we can count on the communitys support as we do everything in our power to care for these dogs and give them a second chance at a happier life.

Stone County is about 215 miles southeast of Kansas City, Missouri.

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There have been 59 combat encounters on the front lines during the last 24 hours, with Ukrainian forces repelling the majority of Russian attacks near Avdiivka, reported the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff on Jan. 21.

Kupyansk sector  Ukrainian defenders repelled seven attacks near Synkivka, Kharkiv Oblast, where the enemy attempted to break through the Ukrainian troops' defense.

Lyman sector  Four attacks were repelled in the areas of Terny and Yampilivka, Donetsk Oblast, and six more attacks near Bilohorivka, Luhansk Oblast, where the enemy tried to break through the Ukrainian defense.

Read also: Worse than in Bakhmut  Danilov on destruction of Maryinka

Bakhmut sector  Ukraines Defense Forces repelled five attacks near Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, and Klishchiivka, Donetsk Oblast, where the enemy unsuccessfully attempted to improve its tactical positions.

Avdiivka sector  Ukrainian defenders repelled five attacks near Novobakhmutivka, Steppove, and Avdiivka, and nine more attacks south of Severne, Pervomaiske, and Nevelske, Donetsk Oblast, where the enemy unsuccessfully tried to break through the defense of Ukrainian forces.

Read also: Casualty toll climbs to 28 in Donetsk market shelling, Russians claim

Marinka sector  Ukraines Defense Forces continue to restrain the enemy in the areas of Heorhiivka and Novomykhailivka, Donetsk Oblast, where the occupiers unsuccessfully tried to improve their tactical position three times.

Shakhtarsk sector  The enemy did not conduct offensive actions.

Zaporizhzhya sector  The Ukrainian Armed Forces repelled four attacks west of Verbove and Robotyne, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, where the enemy unsuccessfully attempted to regain lost positions.

Kherson sector  The enemy continues to try to dislodge Ukrainian units from bridgeheads on the left bank of the Dnipro River. Russians carried out six unsuccessful assaults on the positions of Ukraines Defense Forces.

Russian troops continue to shell civilian objects and positions of Ukrainian troops. Over the last 24 hours, the enemy carried out four missile and 69 air strikes, and conducted 50 shelling attacks with MLRS. The enemy also actively uses radio-controlled drones.

Ukrainian aviation struck nine areas where enemy personnel, armaments, and military equipment were concentrated over last 24 hours. Missile troop units hit a command post, three artillery systems, and one Russian air defense asset.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Millions of us are making up for lost sunshine, and taking extra trips to compensate for the dark days of lockdown during the pandemic. Unfortunately, villains know we are desperate to travel  and that finances are tight. The number of online scams appears to be at an all-time high, targeting people who cannot afford to lose a small fortune.

Any travel purchase of transport and/or accommodation is an act of faith, because you usually pay a substantial sum of money upfront and dont take delivery until you turn up and, hopefully, get the flights and/or villa you were hoping for.

If you go to your local travel agent and buy a holiday, the overwhelming odds are that it will be a genuine and problem-free transaction. But if you are booking online, you are vulnerable to fraudsters. Be wary of these seven signs to ensure you are not going to be left thousands of pounds out of pocket, with no holiday.

1. Are prices way out of line?

A favourite hunting ground for fraudsters in search of unwitting victims is to offer ultra-cheap airline tickets. While many online agents will assert they have the best fare, prices for a particular flight are usually in a fairly narrow band. A check on Skyscanner.net can give you a good idea of the ball-park figure. If an agent is selling well below the norm, be wary  especially if the company tells you it has access to secret fares.

2. Do they make onerous demands?

Scamsters arent simply interested in stealing your money. They also want your identity. A genuine business will not ask for a scan of your passport or driving licence, unless there are good and specific reasons that you can verify (e.g. a local law insisting on identity checks for propective guest).

3. Are the address and phone number disconnected, geographically?

A genuine site should make it easy to find both the address and phone number. If the firm appears to be based in west Cornwall (code 01736) but has a dialling code in northern Scotland (01955), for example, you should ask why. If the number is foreign, be especially circumspect.

If a business says it is a member of Abta, the travel association, then use the very straightforward checking system to confirm its membership status  ring the landline shown on the Abta website to ensure that you are dealing with that company.

Many scam sites have no telephone number, but may have an address. If you search this address online, you will often find the real company that is based at the address the fraudsters claim to use. Find a number for that company, dial it and see what happens; one shut-down scam site, CycladesRentals.com, claimed to be based at an address in west London that was actually the premises of a Polish restaurant.

4. Is the marketing material dodgy?

Many scam websites are set up using extracts copied and pasted from genuine travel companies. If something strikes you as odd, try a bit of copying and pasting yourself  an odd phrase may take you to a genuine holiday company. In the CycladesRentals.com case, a phrase about health looked distinctly out of place; it turned out to have been stolen from a legitimate operator specialising in wellbeing holidays.

5. Could those friendly staff be pretending to be the real villa owners?

Some fraudsters intercept emails to and from genuine companies. To ensure you are not dealing with a criminal, diverge from email conversations. Demand a landline rather than a mobile, check that the dialling code is commensurate with the location, and phone up the owner.

You could ask, for example: Just before I book can you give me a few more details about the area: how far is the beach, how good is the WiFi, whats the mobile-phone reception like?

If you are not satisfied with the answer, probe more deeply: ask for the name of the nearest restaurant and the days it is open, then find the number for this place and call the proprietor to cross-check.

6. Do they demanding payment by bank transfer?

Paying for a service with a credit or debit card generally confers some protection if you dont get what you paid for. In contrast, sending a bank transfer directly to someones account is equivalent to handing over a big bag of your hard-earned cash, with little hope of retrieving it if you are defrauded.

Yet plenty of genuine villa owners will ask for payment by bank transfer. Typically they will do this to keep handling costs down and avoid having to get inverviolved in complex and expensive systems for credit or debit card card payment.

Regrettably, criminals know it, and in a bid to persuade you to send some cash over they will typically make up a story to explain why . So it is essential to make checks before you press confirm. Talk to the property owner at length, asking questions about the ownership of the property: when they bought it, what improvements they have made and background on the immediate vicinity. A genuine owner will typically talk knowledgeably and enthusiastically. If you feel something is not right, do not proceed.

Be especially suspicious if the destination bank account is in an improbable location. If it is a villa in Spain through a British intermediary, being asked to pay into a bank account in a third country should be a red flag.

Some scammers who have placed fictional accommodation availability on well-known platform may ask you to liaise direct and pay by bank transfer rather than going through the official payment platform. If anyone asks you to do this, you can be fairly sure you are dealing with a criminal.

7. Are they hurrying you?

Fraudsters invariably want to pressure you into parting with your hard-earned cash quickly. They will warn that the property will be let to someone else unless you commit immediately. They may also offer a 10 or 20 per cent discount for immediate payment.

You should be able to sense if they are getting agitated: a good way to test their response is to suggest you communicate by mail. A villain wont contemplate such an arrangement, but a genuine owner may cut you some slack and agree to receive your deposit as cash through the post.

While that concept might sound ridiculously 20th century, it can offers safeguards you dont get online. I have phoned an accommodation owner in Greece and then posted the deposit in cash (by registered mail, of course) to a physical address in the village where the property was located. It is a safer transaction than transferring money to a bank account in a distant land.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  The Tennessee Department of Health confirmed 27 weather-related deaths in Tennessee since January 14. Eight of those deaths were reported in Shelby County.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, Shelby County leads the state in the number of deaths during the recent winter storm.

Winter storm leaves 5 dead in Shelby County

17 deaths were reported in Tennessee on Friday, but the total number rose to 27 on Sunday.

Earlier this week, media reports from around the state said in Henry County a man was found dead beside his vehicle after apparently slipping and falling. He died from exposure because he was unable to get up.

A man in Hickman County reportedly died while trying to brush snow off of his roof, and in Knoxville, a person was killed when his truck skidded on the snow and ran into the back of a tractor-trailer.

The circumstances behind the eight deaths in Shelby County are unknown.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
An 85-year-old man left for a fishing trip and never returned, Florida officials said.

Then, the man was found dead near a capsized 13.8-foot boat on Lake St. George, according to the Pinellas County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies made the grim discovery after the fisherman was reported missing to the Clearwater Police Department. He set out to go fishing but didnt return home, prompting officials to search the lake Jan. 19, the sheriffs office wrote in a news release.

While there, crews saw the missing 85-year-olds pickup truck near a boat dock and then found his body in the water next to an overturned vessel. He was identified as Clouster Bryant of Clearwater.

Deputies say Bryant was wearing a life jacket and fishing equipment was also located with Bryant, officials wrote. According to deputies, there were no obvious signs of recent damage to the vessel and there is no evidence that the death of Bryant is criminal in nature.

As of Jan. 20, the sheriffs office said an investigation into Bryants death was ongoing.

Lake St. George, which spans 63 acres, is roughly 20 miles northwest of Tampa.

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Medics have been told not to report women to the police over late abortions in new Royal College guidance.

Leaders are calling for an end to deeply traumatised women being prosecuted following an abortion after a recent increase in police investigations.

In the first official guidance of its kind, the Royal College of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (RCOG) has said healthcare workers must justify disclosing patient data or face potential fitness to practice proceedings.

NHS staff can breach patient confidentiality rules to give information to the police about possible crimes but only if it is in the public interest.

However, RCOG said this was never the case regarding women who have abortions and need safeguarding.

The association said it was concerned about rising police investigations into abortions and pregnancy loss, and their effect on especially vulnerable patients.

The number of suspected illegal abortions registered by police forces in England and Wales was 29 in 2022, up from 16 in 2018.

In 2023, six women were prosecuted in England on suspicion of breaking abortion law, according to the RCOG, compared with just three in the previous 20 years.

Abortions must be performed by a registered medical practitioner within the first 24 weeks of pregnancy under current laws.

Law dates back to 1861

It is illegal to otherwise deliberately end a pregnancy under laws dating back to the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, which carries a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

Dr Jonathan Lord, RCOGs medical director, said: A law that was originally designed to protect a woman is now being used against her.

We have witnessed life-changing harm to women and their wider families as a direct result of NHS staff reporting women suspected of crimes, and we just dont think that would happen in other areas of healthcare.

We deal with the most vulnerable groups who may be concerned about turning to regulated healthcare at all, and we need them to trust us, he told the BBC.

He said some NHS staff had been ignorant about confidentiality rules and women who went on to be investigated were later in their pregnancy than they realised or had late miscarriages.

Carla Foster was jailed for procuring her own abortion in 2020, while Bethany Cox, from Teeside, was cleared of the same charge earlier this month.

RCOG said it would support an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill to protect women from prosecution for having an abortion.

Devastating consequences

British Pregnancy Advisory Service warned of the consequences of a culture of increased reporting.

A spokesman said: It is too often the case that women who are ending up before the courts are ones who have had the police called on them by medical professionals they trusted.

There are devastating consequences that come from a culture of increased reporting, police investigations and prosecutions that simply would not happen with any other medical procedure.

The question must be asked  who benefits from subjecting women to lengthy and traumatic police investigations and threat of prosecution and prison time? Not police, not taxpayers, not politicians, and certainly not our women.

A Crown Prosecution Service spokesman said: These exceptionally rare cases are complex and traumatic.

We carefully consider the personal circumstances of those who end their pregnancy outside the legal parameters and address these as sensitively as possible.

Our prosecutors have a duty to ensure that laws set by Parliament are properly considered and applied when making difficult charging decisions.

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KINGSTON  In a way, she got her dream  or more.

My dream was to live on a farm, said Cindy Mergo. I never thought I would end up living on a vineyard making wine.

Mergo and her husband, Jack, own and operate Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery in Kingston.

Cindy Mergo and her husband, Jack, own and operate Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery in Kingston

Na zdravie, by the way, means To your health in Slovak.

My husband Jack is Slovak, explained Cindy. His grandparents immigrated over from Slovakia and started a cafe/bar.

His mother would tell us stories, Cindy added. One of the stories was that she, as a teenager, could hear the men downstairs (they had an apartment above the bar) having toasts and saying, Na zdravie.

Aces of Trades: Grass Powered Poultry & Meats is a first-generation regenerative family farm

Jack grew up outside Baltimore, Maryland. Cindy grew up all over the US because her father was in the Army. She graduated high school at Unioti, then Hocking College for nursing. Mergo is a registered nurse.

Still, she said, We decided to make wine, which led to the 10-acre vineyard we planted by the hands of our family and friends. The first planting was in 2013-14 and weve planted every year after that.

I planted multiple fruits for another business venture, Jack further explained, but that fell through, so I decided to make wine from the fruit. However, we do this for our own enjoyment and for that of the community as well. Once we opened the winery, we had such a positive response from the community that weve expanded the vineyard and the tasting room to include an event space and dining area. Additionally, weve provided this area with a unique atmosphere to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Thats the heartfelt reason why we enjoy doing this.

Were like family here, Cindy added. That helps when running a vineyard and winery is year-round work. It can at times be physically demanding and stressful, but other times its relaxing and fun, and rewarding.

You need to love what you do and the people who surround you, she concluded. We all want Naz to succeed. We all have each others back here! Weve met a lot of people, become friends with our neighbors, and we actually employ people who are now like family. Its all from the heart!

Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery is located at 13414 Marietta Rd. in Kingston. For more information, log on www.nazwinery.com.

About the series

Aces of Trades is a weekly series focusing on people and their jobs  whether theyre unusual jobs, fun jobs or people who take ordinary jobs and make them extraordinary. If you have a suggestion for a future profile, let us know at gaznews@nncogannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: Aces of Trades: Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery is a dream come true for Cindy Mergo
Actor Alec Baldwin has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the New Mexico set of the film Rust in 2021. The incident occurred when Baldwin was handling a prop gun that contained a live round of ammunition, leading to the accidental discharge in rehearsal that resulted in Hutchins death.

The New Mexico grand jury indicted the 65-year-old on Friday, Jan. 19, after hearing evidence presented by special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis regarding the case. Now Baldwin is facing one count of involuntary manslaughter and faces up to 18 months in prison.

Oscar winning actor Alec Baldwin indicted for involuntary manslaughter and may face 8 year in prison. (Photo by MEGA/GC Images)

Baldwin faces two separate involuntary manslaughter charges in the indictment, but he can only be convicted of one.

The more severe charge, classified as a felony, accuses him of demonstrating total disregard or indifference for the safety of others, while the other alleges he was negligent in his use of a firearm.

This charge comes exactly one year after the case was first brought to court and subsequently dismissed in April 2023. The dropping of the case occurred due to the original district attorney trying the case did not present enough evidence to secure an indictment.

Helping the grand jury come to its conclusion was the testimony of several witnesses, including Ross Addiego and Lane Luper, crew members on Rust; Marissa Poppell, a crime scene technician who worked on the case; Alexandria Hancock, a detective involved in the initial investigation; and Bryan Carpenter, a consultant on industry practices around firearms.

With the new team, Morrissey and Lewis, the victims family is hoping that they will see justice.

We are looking forward to the criminal trial which will determine if he should be convicted for the untimely death of Halyna, Gloria Allred, the lawyer for Hutchins family, said in a statement, according to NBC News.

One fan called the case a sad state of affairs for everyone involved.

Even though Alec Baldwin settled with the family of #HalynaHutchins the New Mexico justice system said theyd pursue the case if facts & evidence warranted criminal charges. Its a sad state of affairs for everyone involved with the production of #Rust, the person tweeted.

Even though Alec Baldwin settled with the family of #HalynaHutchins the New Mexico justice system said they'd pursue the case if facts & evidence warranted criminal charges. It's a sad state of affairs for everyone involved with the production of #Rust. https://t.co/xgh3iFgG1F  Mosenwrath RAB (@Mosenwrath) January 19, 2024

The person referenced the undisclosed settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit filed against Baldwin and others in 2022. Mr. Baldwins lawyers, Luke Nikas and Alex Spiro, also released a statement, saying, We look forward to our day in court.

The defenses position is that Baldwin is innocent and did not shoot Hutchins on Oct. 21, 2021.

Doubling as an actor and producer for the Western film, Baldwin claims he was told that the gun did not have any live rounds in it and that the live ammunition was not supposed to be on set.

He also says he did not pull the trigger of the weapon that took the filmmakers life, despite a forensic report commissioned by the prosecution concluding that he must have done so. The report was influential in the authoritys decision to reopen the criminal case.

Alex Baldwin was just indicted by a grand jury in New Mexico for involuntary manslaughter during the Rust shooting.



Baldwin could face up to 18 months in prison.

pic.twitter.com/fqCPdoPZtl  Christian Garcia (@CricsConCarne) January 20, 2024

While Baldwin maintains his innocence, NBC News acquired multiple videos in November 2023 showing the Oscar-nominated actor handling at least one prop gun and engaging with crew members during the filming of scenes for the movie.

Five of the videos, which total all of seven minutes, show him preparing for scenes, firing the guns and acting in character.

Two out of the five videos depict Alec Baldwin attempting to reorganize crew members following his expressed concerns about their safety on the set.

During the setup of a scene featuring Baldwins character, an outlaw named Harland Rust, pulled out his old-fashioned revolver from a shoulder holster and aimed it at the camera. That is when the weapon unexpectedly discharged.

The bullet tragically struck and killed cinematographer Hutchins, while also injuring the movies director, Joel Souza.

Following the incident, investigators discovered five additional live rounds on the set. However, law enforcement officials have not proposed a theory regarding how these live rounds ended up there.

The films armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, responsible for weapons and ammunition on set, is also facing an involuntary manslaughter charge. She has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial next month.

Dave Halls, the movies first assistant director overseeing safety on set, entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor in the case, thus avoiding prison time.

It is said in October 2023 Baldwin and the special prosecutors had explored the possibility of him accepting a plea deal. That agreement reportedly was rescinded right before the prosecution announced it was presenting this case to a grand jury.

The movie Rust was finished after the initial case was dismissed. The producers decided its completion would be a tribute to Hutchins life.

Actor Alec Baldwin Indicted Again on Involuntary Manslaughter Charge for Rust Movie Set Shooting That Left Cinematographer Dead
No, youre not in a slasher film. That scream might be coming from one of Missouris red foxes, who are especially active during their peak breeding season in January and February.

While these urban-dwelling animals look cute, their blood-curdling scream is protection for their young, said Joe DeBold, wildlife damage biologist with Missouri Department of Conservation in Blue Springs.

Heres why you might hear these adorable red creatures in and around Kansas City this winter:

What does the fox say?

If an adult fox senses a predator when their babies are around, the parent lets out a high-pitched scream to distract from their vulnerable young.

A lot of times, its reported that theres a woman screaming in my backyard, because thats what it sounds like, DeBold said.

Red foxes also bark, sounding like a higher-pitched dog. During breeding season, male foxes bark to communicate with one another and show dominance.

Foxes only have a few weeks to reproduce each year, so they are active during that time. Keep an eye out for an increased number of animals in the road. These nocturnal creatures come out at sunrise and sunset, and occasionally during the day.

What do foxes eat?

Red foxes take whatever food they can get  including rodents, rabbits and even cats  but their favorite is squirrel.

They really pound the squirrels hard, DeBold said.

Missouri is home to two species of foxes  red and gray. The red foxes are more common in the north and west parts of the state and gray foxes in the Ozarks, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation. You can tell them apart by their coloring and size  red foxes are slightly larger than their gray counterparts and have a white-tipped tail.

Why are there foxes in the city?

Foxes are happy to live in urban areas as development encroaches on their territory, raising their young under a deck, by a garage or near a swimming pool, DeBold said. The biologist said that the red fox population in Missouri is strong in the city because they lack their main predator  the coyote. While coyotes need to make dens in green spaces, foxes live right in neighborhoods, DeBold said. This leaves the foxes with exclusive access to all the prey the city can offer, without competition from coyotes.

In rural areas, red foxes live on the borders of woods and fields.

Did you know these fun fox facts?

Here are three fun facts about foxes, according to the department of conservation:

While red foxes are related to dogs, they can behave like cats  stalking, pouncing and walking on their toes.

Foxes can make sounds that spans five octaves, the same range as Mariah Carey.

They have good hearing and can sense prey digging underground, helping them to hunt.

Do you have more questions about roads in Kansas City? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
Seattle police say they are investigating after a 22-year-old man was struck by a 26-year-old drunk driver in the Queen Anne Neighborhood.

Officers say they heard about a man being hit while riding a scooter around Mercer Street and Queen Anne Avenue North, just after 2:00 a.m. on Sunday.

The Seattle Fire Department soon arrived and helped the man who suffered serious injuries to both legs. He was taken to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition.

Law enforcement eventually learned the alleged drunk driver was traveling eastbound on Mercer Street before he hit the scooter.

Officials say the suspect then continued driving east before officers pulled him over at 3rd Avenue North and Mercer Street.

An SPD Drug Recognition Expert arrived and evaluated the driver, said a spokesperson. The man was believed to be impaired and was placed into custody.

The suspect was arrested for hit and run and vehicular assault.

Police investigating a collision at Mercer Street and Queen Anne Avenue North. More information when available. Please avoid the area.  Seattle Police Dept. (@SeattlePD) January 21, 2024








(KRON)  A 45-year-old woman allegedly attempted to steal merchandise in a restroom of a Colma business and was arrested, the Colma Police Department said.

Colma police officers responded to a business in the 5000 block of Junipero Serra Boulevard regarding a theft at 6:23 p.m. on Saturday. According to the responding officers, they were told a woman concealed merchandise and went into the womens restroom. The officers approached the woman as she was leaving the restroom and advised her to return the merchandise.

Colma PD asks for community help finding woman who stole $1,000 worth of merchandise

According to police, officers were familiar with the woman due to a prior theft she was connected to. Per the police investigation, the woman had two misdemeanor warrants in Colma and a felony no-bail warrant from an outside agency for her arrest.

Police said in the process of arresting the woman, they found drug paraphernalia, suspected controlled substance, and burglary tools.

The San Francisco resident was arrested and booked into the San Mateo County Jail for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, vandalism, possession of burglary tools, and her warrants. She was also issued a citation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Care industry providers and experts have said that the Governments scheme is just a 'short, sharp fix' - JACOB STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY/DIGITAL VISION

Allowing asylum seekers to work in care homes is just a sticking plaster over the sectors staffing crisis, insiders have warned.

Asylum seekers, including Channel migrants, have been quietly given the right to work in understaffed sectors including care, agriculture and construction and to retain access to state-subsidised bed and board under a Home Office scheme.

The scheme giving migrants the right to work allows them to do so if their application remains unresolved after a year and they have yet to be granted leave to remain in the UK. The Home Office has refused to reveal how many people benefit from it.

However, care industry providers and experts have warned that the scheme is just a short, sharp fix and a sticking plaster amid a wider staffing crisis facing the sector.

They claim that asylum seekers who are not eventually granted permanent residency, yet who work in the care sector, will only temporarily be plugging the gap as they will be sent home.

Furthermore, they fear that those who are granted the right to remain will quit for higher-paid jobs.

We need sustainable options

Nadra Ahmed, chairman of the National Care Association said: This is just a short, sharp fix, and can work against us.

We must not assume that social care is a role that can be filled by just anyone. There needs to be no English language barrier for frail, elderly or other vulnerable people being cared for  speaking to someone with dementia with perfect English is challenging enough and there needs to be a long-term plan for working in the sector.

This is not a stopgap. To create a robust, sustainable social care sector, we need people who are committed to the role and who are willing to learn and undertake training, this is why we call the social care workforce a skilled workforce.

She added: We would welcome with open arms someone who wanted a long-term career in social care, but I worry that this is short-term. Providers need to spend huge amounts of money to train people and skill them up, and if theyre sent back or receive a change in status, we lose that person from the sector. Or if they stay and then they could leave for a higher-paying job.

So the challenge remains how do we retain people. That is the issuethese are all short sharp fixes, we need sustainable options.

According to the latest available Skills for Care data for the year 2022-23, published in October, there are 152,000 vacant posts in the care sector, out of a total 1.79 million. This means that there is a vacancy rate of 9.9 per cent, down from 10.7 per cent in 2021-21.

This comes amid increasing recruitment of international workers. In 2022-23, there were 70,000 people starting adult social care roles having arrived in the UK that year. This number was up from 20,000 in 2021-22 and 10,000 in 2020-21.

The health and social care sectors faced significant staff shortages in 2023. As a result, the UK immigration system admitted unprecedented numbers of overseas health and care workers in the year ending March 2023, making up the majority of skilled worker entry visas.

According to a report in the Guardian, modern slavery is also surging in the social care sector since ministers relaxed immigration rules to fill thousands of vacancies, with rising incidents of exploitation leading to workers being ripped off or living in squalor.

Current system causing preventable problems

Unseen, a Bristol-based anti-slavery charity, said it recorded at least 800 potential victims of modern slavery last year, based on calls to its helpline  an increase of more than 1,100 per cent on the 63 in 2021. The increase comes in the wake of the Home Office scheme to add care workers to the shortage occupation list in 2022 amid the relaxed visa rules.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior health official told The Telegraph: Social care providers are really being impacted negatively by current immigration policy, and specially third sector providers.

There are a number of unscrupulous suppliers plying their trade who promise people work and dont deliver or dont do due diligence.

A number of care providers have said that the current system is causing preventable problems.

And indeed they proposed solutions a while ago which would be more efficient and cheaper. In some places care homes are short of staff and migrants can both be good staff and be supported to become good UK citizens by working in social care, for example by learning about culture and also providing skills we need.

But the current situation seems to be damaging social care and leaving loopholes for trafficking and slavery and its just counterproductive.

The Home Office scheme in which asylum seekers are allowed to take jobs in care, construction and farming sectors after a year, is the 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 source added: What I hear is a) a lot of people arent aware of it and b) it is cumbersome and c) it isnt what we need  its a sticking plaster for a national system. I havent heard a lot of positives about it

I think what the Home Office needs to do is sit down and do some proper co-design with care providers. But theyve always been utterly incapable of grasping that.

A government spokesman said: The UK has one of the most restrictive right-to-work policies for asylum seekers in Europe, both in terms of occupations and time limits. This strikes the right balance between protecting taxpayer money and ensuring people are not incentivised to come to the UK illegally.

However, we are committed to ethical international recruitment and continuing to bring in workers that our care sector and NHS need, while also supporting our home grown care workforce by providing councils with almost 2 billion over two years.

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.
Just days after Alphabet and Google CEO Sudar Pichai warned workers of more downsizing this year, the former is laying off dozens of employees, mainly support staff, at its moonshot lab. Alphabet is also restructuring X (not to be confused with the platform formerly known as Twitter) to make it easier to spin out projects as independent startups with backing from outside investors. Alphabet confirmed these changes, which were first reported by Bloomberg, to Engadget.

"As weve said, were responsibly investing in our company's biggest priorities and the significant opportunities ahead," a Google spokesperson told Engadget in a statement. "To best position us for these opportunities, throughout the second half of 2023, a number of our teams made changes to become more efficient and work better, and to align their resources to their biggest product priorities. Some teams are continuing to make these kinds of organizational changes, which include some role eliminations globally. Were continuing to support any impacted employees as they look for new roles here at Google and beyond."

Were expanding our approach to focus on spinning out more projects as independent companies funded through market-based capital, X division head Astro Teller told staff in a memo. Well do this by opening our scope to collaborate with a broader base of industry and financial partners, and by continuing to emphasize lean teams and capital efficiency.

This approach will give us more opportunity to focus on what Xers do best: inventing breakthrough technologies to help solve some of the worlds most pressing challenges, Teller added. Because the world needs moonshots more now than ever.

X is all about attempting to tackle major problems such as food waste, climate change and connectivity through innovation, but it hasn't found a ton of success through its spinoff businesses as yet. Last year, former Alphabet Chief Financial Officer Ruth Porat became the company's president and chief investment officer and now oversees X.

As Bloomberg notes, there has been a greater onus on X to turn its ambitious ideas into profitable businesses over the last few years, while Alphabet is cutting costs across the board. Earlier this month, Google laid off hundreds of workers from various divisions, including the hardware, engineering and ad sales teams, as it places more emphasis on artificial intelligence. A year ago, Google let go most workers from its Area 120 startup incubator.
WEST MICHIGAN  Justin Amash, a former U.S. representative, announced on social media Thursday he's launching an exploratory committee to run for the state's open seat in the U.S. Senate this November.

Amash, who represented West Michigan in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2021, left the Republican Party in 2019, identifying as an independent and later, libertarian. It's unclear under which banner he'd run in a possible Senate campaign, though he alluded to possibly joining the Republican primary field.

Amash, of Cascade, represented Barry and Ionia counties, as well as most of Kent County and Battle Creek.

U.S. Rep. Justin Amash (R-MI) holds a Town Hall on May 28, 2019, in Grand Rapids.

"Ive been humbled in recent weeks by the many people who have urged me to run for Senate in Michigan and to do so by joining the Republican primary," Amash posted on X, formerly called Twitter. "... Today Im launching the Justin Amash for Senate Exploratory Committee as I consider entering the race.

"We need a principled, consistent constitutional conservative in the Senate  someone with a record of taking on the bipartisan oligarchy, defending sound money and free speech, fighting the surveillance state and military-industrial complex, and protecting all our rights. The stakes are high: freedom, social cooperation, and human progress itself."

Amash couldn't be immediately reached for comment.

While serving, Amash bucked the trend among most congressional conservatives when he voted to impeach former President Donald Trump in 2019 over allegations Trump abused his office by asking the Ukrainian government to investigate a political rival, now-President Joe Biden.

Unlike actual campaign committees, exploratory committees don't need to register with the Federal Elections Commission, so it remains unclear if Amash is entering the race as a Republican or as a third-party candidate. Should he join the Republican primary, he'll enter a crowded field that already has a pair of former Republican representatives.

Former U.S. Reps. Mike Rogers and Peter Meijer, who succeeded Amash in Congress after Michigan's Third District was re-drawn, are seeking the Republican nomination. So is former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for governor in 2022, and businessman Sandy Pensler, among others.

Amash's criticism of Trump would be a compelling dynamic in the Senate race, should he clinch the Republican nomination, given Trump is considered the front-runner for the GOP's presidential nomination.

But others in the primary would also have to grapple with another Trump nomination  Meijer also broke with his party to impeach Trump, this time during proceedings that centered on the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Meijer served only a single term in Congress, losing a Republican primary to Trump-backed John Gibbs, now a controversial figure in Ottawa County, in August 2022. Gibbs lost to Democrat Hillary Scholten.

Since launching his Senate bid, Meijer has said he doesn't believe Trump engaged in insurrection, a contrast to his impeachment vote. Meijer, in a November interview with the Free Press, said his impeachment vote was a political distinction, rather than a legal one.

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Rogers, who represented Michigan in Congress from 2001 to 2015, endorsed Trump for president in January. But he had shown a willingness to criticize Trump in the past, including writing a January 2021 op-ed in the Washington Post saying Trump and others needed to accept the results of the 2020 election.

Michigan's U.S. Senate seat is up for grabs this fall, after Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, announced she would not seek another term. Stabenow has held the seat since 2001.

U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Lansing, is considered the front-runner for the Democratic party's nomination. But she faces challenges from actor Hill Harper, Dearborn businessman Nasser Beydoun, and Ann Arbor lawyer Zack Burns.

Notably, no Republican has won a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan since Spencer Abraham in 1994, and he was defeated six years later by Stabenow.

 Washington correspondent Todd Spangler contributed to this report. Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com. Follow him on X (Twitter) @arpanlobo.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Amash launches exploratory committee for open U.S. Senate seat
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police are searching for suspects who ransacked Amazon trucks near an Amazon distribution center overnight.

A little after midnight Monday, officers responded to a prowler call at the Amazon Distribution Center on East Holmes Road.

Security told police that a brown truck parked beside semi-trailers that were parked on the street. Four suspects got out of the car and broke into some of the semi-trucks.

MPD found one of the trucks with its seal broken near Getwell Road. The driver said he did not know his truck had been broken into.

WREG was in the area and noticed several yellow containers filled with an assortment of items spread out on the ground. Amazon Security and Loss Prevention was busy Monday morning sorting and gathering up the merchandise.

Thieves try to break in Amazon truck stuck by ice

Memphis Police say they do not have any video surveillance of the incident and were not able to get fingerprints.

Increasing thefts have some delivery drives on alert. James Counce drives for a freight company in Paragould, Arkansas, and is aware that package delivery companies are frequent targets.

Ive been a professional driver since 2016, and I come to Memphis often, he said. It is concerning. I mean, it doesnt affect me personally, but it does the industry all together.

This is at least the second time an Amazon truck has been targeted in Memphis. Last week, a driver who was jackknifed on an icy Holmes Road said he had to fend off several people trying to break in.

Counce isnt surprised that thieves are taking advantage of the extreme winter weather.

Theres less people on the roads. Theres less people working, and it gives them more of an opportunity to target something, he said.

So far, no arrests have been made. If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Another month, and yet another record has been broken. According to a report by the International Energy Agency, the US is now producing more oil than any other country ever. Likewise, Canadian production is hitting fresh highs, with the Alberta province reaching an all time record for energy output in November. Fracking is exceeding all expectations, with dramatically better yields, and a far better safety record than anyone foresaw when the industry was started a decade ago.

Quite sensibly, Joe Biden has called on producers to increase output to keep prices down. Yet while the UK has vast reserves of shale oil and gas, we banned it. We could be generating massive amounts of wealth this side of the Atlantic, and have chosen not to.

Its hardly as though the Offshore Petroleum Licensing Bill, which progresses through Parliament this week, will add much to our domestic energy production. Companies will be allowed to apply for new licenses for the North Sea, although with a headline tax rate of 75 per cent, and with the Labour Party seemingly wanting to call time on the industry as quickly as possible, it is hard to understand why anyone would bother.

With every month that passes, the contrast becomes more stark. Britain has fallen prey to a Net Zero dogma and fixation with renewables. America, on the other hand, is producing 13.1 million barrels of oil a day, according to the US Energy Information Administration. This month it is forecast to hit 13.2 million barrels a day, overtaking the record set under the Trump administration just before the pandemic. The US is now the worlds top energy producer, and oil and gas is the countrys largest export. According to one report, Canada has now overtaken the whole of China for energy production, and is just behind Iraq. On current trends it will become the worlds fourth largest energy producer some time this year.

There is no great mystery about why production is booming. Fracking is exceeding all expectations. With drills that can now run for up to three miles horizontally, compared to initial upper limits of half a mile, far more can be extracted, and far more efficiently, than was previously expected. There is no sign of that progress slowing down. In June, for example, ExxonMobils chief executive Darren Woods said he aims to double the total output from the companys American shale fields over the next five years by using better technology. He forecasts 9 per cent to 11 per cent annual growth from the crucial Permian basin alone.

On current trends, and without any new fields being opened up, the North American energy boom could keep on racking up 10 per cent annual growth rates for at least the rest of the decade. Ironically, that is largely the result of decisions made by three politicians generally regarded as standard-bearers for the environmentally aware liberal left, Barack Obama, Justin Trudeau, and Biden (who has also allowed a huge new traditional oil field to be developed in Alaska). All three leaders recognised, quite rightly, that while combating climate change was important, fossil fuels would still be needed for the transition to green energy, and they might as well be produced domestically instead of imported from Venezuela or Saudi Arabia. Looking back, it was among the smartest pieces of economic policy making in the last two decades.

Meanwhile, the UK is sitting on vast reserves, and doing nothing about it. While hesitation in the early-2010s may have been understandable, all the evidence from the US should now lead us to one clear conclusion. Fracking is much safer than it appeared a decade ago, and it is also vastly more productive. Technology has also advanced.

The real question is this. For how much longer will we simply ignore the American oil boom? When will we reconsider the ban? Unfortunately, there is not much sign so far. The Labour Party, which will almost certainly be in power very soon, is still intent on stopping all new licences even in the North Sea. Fossil fuels must form part of our low carbon transition. We should stop the Net Zero virtue signalling, and start drilling.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
An American Airlines flight was diverted to Houston, Texas, on Sunday due to a reported fire on board.

On 21 January, Flight 885 from Texas to North Carolina was diverted due to the fire, according to a statement from American Airlines shared with NBC News. In the statement, the airline specified that the mechanical issues on board were caused by the oven in the forward galley.

The flight had taken off from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin at 2pm and was diverted to Houston, according to data from FlightAware. After arriving at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) at 3pm CST, travellers experienced an extensive flight delay before heading to their initial destination.

Flight 885 officially took off from IAH at 10.59pm CST on 21 January, before arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) at 1.46am EST.

According to American Airlines, nobody on aircraft Boeing 737-800 was injured by the reported fire. The Houston Airport System told NBC that the aircraft was examined by the maintenance team when it first landed in Houston on 21 January. The citys fire department also responded to the report of the fire on the aircraft.

After approximately 30 minutes, the alert was terminated and the aircraft was declared fire-safe, a spokesperson for Houstons airport system said.

In a statement issued after Flight 885 landed in Houston, American Airlines addressed the mechanical problems on board. The aircraft landed safely and without incident, and taxied to the gate under its own power, the airline said at the time. We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience and appreciate our team members for their professionalism. We are currently working to assist impacted customers, and they are scheduled to depart to CLT later tonight.

The Independent has contacted a representative for American Airlines for comment.

This isnt the first time that issues on a Boeing 737 aircraft have been reported. Earlier this month, Alaska Airlines passengers sued Boeing in response to an incident on a domestic flight, which resulted in a door-plug blowing out of the plane mid-air.

The lawsuit listed seven plaintiffs and was filed in the Superior Court of Washington for King County, where part of the emergency occurred. The incident took place on 5 January, as Flight 1282 was 16,000 feet in the air as it travelled from Portland, Oregon, to Ontario, California.
For American volunteers fighting in Ukraine, the partisan roadblocks delaying $60 billion in assistance can mean the difference between life and death.

These fighters are U.S.-trained veterans of American wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, who felt compelled to travel to Ukraine and join the fight they view as between good and evil. This week, they brought that message to Washington.

Were trying to convey a sense of urgency, that they need the help now, said Gino, an American volunteer in the Ukrainian military, who asked to use his call sign.

A U.S. Army veteran, Gino is serving with Ukraines military intelligence unit, the GUR, and he described weapons and equipment shortages, along with low Ukrainian morale on the front line, nearly two years into a punishing defensive war against Russia.

He spoke to The Hill with two other former U.S. soldiers serving in Ukraine and families of American volunteers killed fighting against Russia.

They came to Washington at the request of The Weatherman Foundation, an American nonprofit working in Ukraine to deliver humanitarian assistance, assist Americans fighting there, and even help repatriate the bodies of those killed in action.

The trip to Washington is not easy for the fighters and the bereaved families. The schedule of lawmaker meetings and recounting the lives and deaths of their loved ones takes a physical and emotional toll.

But they said its worth it if they can help pass President Bidens $60 billion assistance package for Ukraine, despite GOP obstruction over demands to change U.S. immigration policy.

Ill come back, Ill kick in doors, said Karla Webber, a mother of an American veteran killed in Ukraine, about pushing for continued support.

Her son, Andrew, a West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran, was killed in July while fighting in Ukraines eastern provinces.

I plan to carry on Andrews work the best that I can, she said. I need to do what I think he would do, and that is try to influence people to take this war seriously, and recognize the big picture.

She framed resistance to Russian President Vladimir Putins invasion as the battle for freedom against aggression and tyranny.

I would ask our leaders on the Hill here to put aside everything they think they want and do whats right even if theres nothing in it for them.

Much of Bidens funding request is directed to be spent on weapons production in the U.S., to backfill American stockpiles drawn down for Ukraine, and create a flow of more weapons that can be used for Ukraine. Bidens allies and Kyivs supporters say this manufacturing would also benefit American industry and the U.S. economy.

But Republican critics in Congress  and some Democrats  have spoken out against U.S. support for Ukraine and have increasingly challenged majorities in both parties who support continued assistance to Kyiv.

Still, Ukraines supporters are optimistic that the $60 billion will eventually be delivered, even as its been held up for months amid Republican demands for a massive overhaul to immigration policy, amid surging arrivals at the southern border.

For the Americans fighting with Ukrainians, U.S. supplies can mean the difference between life and death.

P., a veteran of Americas war in Afghanistan and a former National Guardsman, said hes alive because of the U.S. delivery of cluster munitions to Ukraine over the summer amid dire ammunition shortages  a highly controversial decision because the bombs can cause widespread, indiscriminate damage and death.

Im only here because cluster munitions helped hold off Russians from wiping out my extraction point, he told The Hill.

I dont know a lot of the information that gets stateside, but a lot of these things are pushing the Russians back, holding them back, they need to continue, he said referring to American supplies of long-range missiles and air defense systems.

Ukraines army has been praised for pushing back against a much more powerful and nuclear-armed foe. But Russia still controls about 18 percent of Ukrainian territory nearly two years into its full-scale invasion, including its nearly 10-year occupation of the Crimean peninsula and the provinces of Donetsk and Luhansk.

War monitors say the battle has largely reached a stalemate, with Moscow holding the advantage, especially without robust Western assistance for Ukraine.

Putin has maneuvered his economy around international sanctions, doubled down on domestic military production and forged partnerships with pariah nations  notably Iran and North Korea  to increase weapons deliveries, and shown little hesitancy to expand his ground army despite high rates of casualties.

But Ukraine has retaken territory occupied by the Russians early in the war; learned complicated weapons systems on the fly; and launched attacks against Russian positions that seemed improbable given available equipment.

It was a shocking realization when I got there, as to how good we had it in the U.S. military, said P., whos a member of Ukraines Chosen company, a volunteer fighting force of foreigners from 30 countries.

He described shortages of working rifles, little to no time for training or preparation for missions, and a heavy reliance on nonprofit organizations delivering non-lethal assistance like bulletproof vests, helmets, boots, radios, night vision and even food.

He said the Ukrainians are employing available weapons in creative ways that the U.S. and other armies can use to better inform warfighting.

These are weapons we didnt lean on that much in conflicts in the past and watching them being implemented in this is a major benefit to America, P. said. And that being said, doing what we can to own the air with the drones, and different things like that, theres a huge opportunity for America to learn, in that regard.

The U.S., as part of a coalition of more than 40 nations supporting Ukraine, is viewed as a crucial supplier of heavy weapons and air defense systems, which are critical in defending against Russias aerial bombardments of civilian infrastructure and on front-line troops.

Jumbo, a former Marine who is in recovery from being injured in a July mortar and grenade attack, said the biggest challenge on the frontline for Ukraines troops is countering all manner of drones.

A big piece of equipment that we could use is anything electronic warfare, counter-unmanned aerial drone devices that can knock the drones out of the sky, he said.

The operation I got hurt on, when I looked up in the sky, there were just drones everywhere, they were all over the place.

While lawmakers in Washington stall on passing more aid for Ukraine, non-profit organizations and small donors are looking to fill the gaps.

Willow Andrews is one of many parents who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Ukraines freedom. Her 26-year-old son Cooper, a former Marine, was killed fighting in Ukraine in April 2023.

Still, she takes a portion of her disability check every month to help support donations  socks, funding for drones, night vision, ready-to-eat meals for soldiers, medical supplies, and shipping costs.

When I hear on the news that the border is connected to funding for Ukraine, its really disturbing, because then I hear on the news we dont want to do anything for the border because we dont want to give credit to Biden, which basically, Im hearing from our government, forget Ukraine, she said.

Willow said from an early age, her son was always looking for different ways to help people  an Eagle Scout and community organizer who spent his free time volunteering with American veterans.

Maybe if I raised my kid to not care about people, and made him care more about what brand of sneakers he was wearing, Cooper would still be here. But I dont think I would like that Cooper, she said.

Caring about people, caring about democracy  and no love for Putin  was why Cooper said he should go. And he said, Mom if I dont do it, who will? You taught me to fight for things I believe in.

Updated at 8:14 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  A Michigan man has died after falling through the ice while fishing Sunday.

The Arenac County Sheriffs Department says a 59-year-old man from Saginaw was fishing on the Pine River Sunday morning when he fell through. Rescue crews from the Standish Area Fire Authority were able to use an airboat to locate and recover the mans body.

Despite frigid temps, most ice remains unsafe

The crew tried to revive the man at the scene and during the journey to a nearby hospital.

State authorities have cautioned anglers in recent days to be leery of ice despite the recent frigid conditions.

There are certain spots where (the ice may be thick enough), but for the majority of our inland lakes right now, and especially our rivers, anything with a current is not safe ice at all right now, DNR Lt. Gerald Thayer told News 8 last week. The water temperatures before we got this cold spell, they were just too warm for ice to form solid just yet.

While the Michigan DNR says no amount of ice cover is guaranteed to be safe, there are some signs to look for. Thayer recommends using a spud or an auger to consistently measure ice thickness. The Minnesota DNR recommends staying off any ice less than 4 inches thick.

The strongest ice will be clear with a bluish tint. Ice that looks milky or has clearly melted and refrozen is typically weaker. It is typically called white ice or honeycomb ice because of its appearance.

The sun comes out, nice winter, sunny day, and it heats up the ice just enough to start melting certain parts of it and then it refreezes and then it starts to honeycomb, Thayer explained.

He also recommended avoiding ice near any specific shallow areas that may be warmer than other parts of the ice, along with stumps or docks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Another California state agency will require most of its workers to return to the office twice a week starting later this spring.

Secretary Mark Ghaly of the California Health and Human Services Agency broke the news in a memo emailed to all staff on Monday morning. The memo, obtained by The Sacramento Bee via a California Public Records Act request, sets a target implementation date of March 2024.

More than 90% of employees in nearly all of the agencys departments were eligible to telework as of last November, according to the latest available data.

The return-to-office push comes after four years of nearly full remote work across California state government. The state suddenly shifted its operations online in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and since then, employees have overwhelmingly enjoyed the newfound flexibility that comes from eliminating commutes, such as gasoline savings, more time at home and cheaper housing prices further out from major metro areas. On the flipside, city officials and chambers of commerce have repeatedly begged the state to bring workers back to their offices.

CalHHSs announcement follows a similar proclamation from the California Environmental Protection Agency, which also intends to bring workers back to the office twice a week. Gov. Gavin Newsoms budget also proposes cutting state workers telework stipends, which amount to either $25 or $50 per person depending on eligibility.

The states Health and Human Services agency says the return-to-office push is part of the journey to become an employer of choice as well as the best, most collaborative Agency in state government.

The agencys reasoning hinges largely on the argument that in-person work builds good team culture and provides opportunities for mentorship, collaboration and enrichment. In his memo, Ghaly points to the more than 7,000 new employees that joined the agencys departments and offices within the last four years.

Building a positive and strong organizational culture and a connected workforce is crucial, especially when we have many new employees, Ghaly wrote. We cannot achieve this by only being virtual, we do need to bring people together in-person to allow them to build relationships and to learn from each other.

Nearly all departments and offices under CalHHS offered telework as an option to more than 90% of their employees, according to November 2023 data from the Department of General Services, the most recent data available. Exceptions include the Department of State Hospitals, where only 17% of employees were telework eligible, and the Department of Developmental Services, where about 32% of employees were able to work remotely.

Top officials in Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration have previously touted the benefits of telework.

The administration wants to continue to reap teleworks benefits for the employees and for the state, said former Government Operations Agency Secretary Yolanda Richardson in a 2021 video address to state managers, by making sure we encourage as much telework as possible while still meeting our mission to serve Californians.

As the state prepared to reopen fully in June 2021, Newsoms administration told department directors that 75% of state workers who could telework should still work from home. Most of the states 230,000 employees can work remotely, but many employed at state prisons, hospitals and other facilities cannot.

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg has previously called on public employees, at both state and local levels, to come back to their downtown offices at least a few days per week. He and current mayoral candidate Kevin McCarty have also been vocal advocates of converting surplus downtown spaces into affordable apartments and condos to combat the housing shortage.

I will always be consistent in encouraging workers  state workers, local government workers  at a minimum to mix it up and work downtown at least a few days a week, Steinberg told The Bee in 2022. I also recognize and we all recognize that the past is the past. We dont want anything to sit vacant and certainly we have opportunities to create something new.

Exemptions for some CalHHS employees

Several classes of employees will be exempt from the return-to-office mandate. The agency will honor telework agreements with workers whose positions were advertised as fully remote. Plus, those who work in call centers or out in the field  such as inspectors, surveyors, auditors and others deemed field-based by the department leadership  will be allowed to continue working remotely.

However, the memo made clear that even those workers are expected to come into the office for in-person and site-based functions.

This may include trainings, stakeholder meetings, or other events or meetings, when otherwise not conducting call center duties or field-based work, and as deemed appropriate by the department leadership, Ghalys memo read.

All requests for alternative hybrid work schedules will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with the employees memorandum of understanding. Departments will consider operational or business needs when determining whether to grant such requests, the memo said.

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Stagnant water sits below the dry spillway of Falcon Dam in Starr County on Aug. 18, 2022. Credit: Michael Gonzalez for The Texas Tribune

This story is published in partnership with Inside Climate News, a nonprofit, independent news organization that covers climate, energy and the environment. Sign up for the ICN newsletter here.

Two consecutive summers of brutal heat and drought have left some parts of Texas with notably low water supplies going into 2024.

A wet year or a well-placed hurricane could quickly pull these regions back from the brink. But winter rains have disappointed so far. Mondays downpours are the first in weeks for parts of the state, and they wont hit the watersheds that need them most.

Looking ahead, forecasters increasingly expect another scorching summer here this year.

Thats bad news for places like far South Texas, where big reservoirs on the Lower Rio Grande fell from 33% to 23% full over the last 12 months. A repeat of similar conditions would leave the reservoirs far lower than theyve ever been, triggering an emergency response and an international crisis.

Pretty scary times, said Jim Darling, president of the Rio Grande Regional Water Authority and former mayor of McAllen. Well see what happens.

Worries stretch beyond the Rio Grande. In Corpus Christi, on the South Texas coast, authorities last month stopped releasing water aimed at maintaining minimum viable ecology in the coastal wetlands, even as oil refineries and chemical plants remain exempt from water use restrictions during drought.

Also last month, in the sprawling suburbs of Central Texas, between Austin and San Antonio, one groundwater district declared stage four drought for the first time in its 36-year history.

Texans dont usually talk about drought in the winter. Damp soil and green grass may conceal the impending predicament today, but water planners in regions with low reserves nervously await what summer may bring.

Signs are not favorable, said Greg Waller, a coordinating hydrologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Fort Worth. Expect warmer and drier, again.

Winter and spring rains offer the best hope for relief, he said, but weather patterns so far havent produced the sustained downpours needed to refill reservoirs.

Drought conditions in 2022 and 2023 struck with markedly acute severity. Last year was the hottest on record for Texas  and the Earth, according to NOAA  after a global heatwave shattered temperature records around the world.

These patterns, Waller said, are consistent with scientific understanding of climate change caused by carbon emissions.

Climate change means the extremes are going to get more extreme, he said. The heat waves are going to get more heat. The droughts are going to get droughty-er and the floods are going to get floody-er.

Texas rainfall typically peaks in May. If relief doesnt come by then, some places will need to start bracing for impact.

A seabird on the shore of Nueces Bay near Corpus Christi's refinery row. Credit: Dylan Baddour/Inside Climate News

Corpus Christi: wetlands and refineries

Corpus Christi, with 421,000 people in its two-county metro area, sits where the Gulf Coast marshes meet the semi-arid South Texas plains. The regions combined reservoirs dropped from 53.7% full in 2022 to 43.6% in 2023 to 30.5% this month.

The city announced in December that it would no longer release water from its reservoir system to support basic ecology in coastal bays and estuaries.

Wherever Texas rivers join the sea, these once-vast wetlands host critical reproductive cycles of many aquatic species, and they depend on freshwater inflows for their characteristically half-salty, nutrient-rich systems. When water supply gets tight, the bays and estuaries typically are first to see their allocations revoked while cities keep dam gates closed.

Due to the ongoing drought in our water supply, wrote a city spokesperson in a statement. NO water is being released from Lake Corpus Christi to the Bays and Estuaries.

These ecosystems, which once benefited from all the water from the formerly undammed rivers of Texas, have adapted to natural droughts. Dry years severely decrease the amount of species reproduction, but when wet weather returns, the system can usually recover within a year, according to Paul Montagna, endowed chair of hydroecology at the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies in Corpus Christi.

However, if a system is permanently impaired it is also possible that recovery will not reach former levels, Montagna said.

Studies suggest that systems around Corpus Christi may already be permanently impaired, Montagna said, largely due to a sustained lack of fresh water.

Similar problems span the lower Texas coast. The Rio Grande hasnt flowed consistently into the Gulf of Mexico since the early 2000s. On the Colorado River, which runs through Austin, authorities have kept water releases to the coastal wetlands at a bare minimum in recent years. Jennifer Walker, director of the National Wildlife Foundations Texas Coast and Water Program, called it critical life support.

Water to meet environmental needs is frequently the first to be negotiated away, Walker said. Our bays and estuaries are a hugely important part of Texas, and theyre not something that would be easy to go back and fix.

In Corpus Christi, a major refining and export hub for Texas shale oil and gas, city authorities have imposed water use restrictions on residents, with more to come if reservoir levels fall below 30%. But the regions largest industrial water consumers operate unabated, thanks to a purchasable exemption from drought restrictions for industrial users  25 cents per 1,000 gallons  passed by the City Council in 2018.

That includes users like ExxonMobils massive new plastics plant, which is authorized to use up to 25 million gallons of water per day  a quarter of the regional summertime water demand.

Industry can continue full bore through all of these drought stages and the estuary gets cut off early, said a water resource consultant from Corpus Christi who requested anonymity to preserve his business relationship with the city. I think its a looming disaster. They are still trying to recruit all these water-intensive industries along the coast.

Proceeds from the exemption program were supposed to fund development of seawater desalination plants that would expand the regional water supply and meet demands of a booming industrial buildout. The first plant was initially planned to begin operations early last year, but it remains mired in challenges and years away from breaking ground. Meanwhile, the industrial buildout continues.

An Aqua Texas sign outside of Wimberley. Credit: Dylan Baddour/Inside Climate News

Central Texas: people and grass

Two hundred miles inland, the five-county region surrounding Austin, has grown faster than any U.S. metro area for 12 straight years. Its water supplies havent.

In 2022, less water flowed into city reservoirs than ever before, city staff said at a public water task force meeting on Tuesday. Last year was only slightly better. The largest reservoir serving Austin, Lake Travis, fell from about 80% full in January 2022 to 38% full at the start of this year.

Even in another extreme drought year, Austin can avoid heightened water use restrictions, which take effect when reservoirs fall below 30% full, until at least July, according to a water supply outlook presented at the meeting. But the outlook stopped short of August and September, the regions hottest and (recently) driest months.

Its not looking good, said Robert Mace, director of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University and a member of the water task force.

Even if levels fall below 30%, water users in Austin will face only minor restrictions, focused mostly on car washing and lawn irrigation. During the summer in Texas, when water consumption can double or triple over wintertime use, major cities spray most of their treated drinking water onto grass.

The problem worsens as more land converts to suburban subdivisions amid a homebuilding boom, said Todd Votteler, a water dispute consultant and editor of the Texas Water Journal, a peer-reviewed journal focused on water management and research. Texas gained more residents and built more homes than any state in recent years.

One of the challenges is the idea for home builders and the real estate industry that all these new houses need to have beautiful green lawns, said Votteler, who has worked at groundwater and river authorities in Central Texas since 1994. People moving here from some place else might not have lived in a region with a limited water supply.

Around Austin, a patchwork of authorities manages various aquifers and reservoirs. Last month, the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Groundwater Conservation District declared stage four drought restrictions for the first time in its 36-year history. That required the oldest communities and major companies in the district to reduce water use by 40%, while 16 newer permit holders were cut off entirely.

The districts customers include the city of Kyle, the third-fastest growing U.S. city in 2022, plus dozens of small water companies and utility districts.

Weve been concerned for years. Weve been in one stage of drought or another for well over a year and a half now, said Tim Loftus, general manager of the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Groundwater Conservation District. We just really need rain.

Loftus said his customers have risen to the occasion and complied with cuts. Another district hasnt been as lucky.

The neighboring Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District has fought for two years with a local subsidiary of a national investor-owned water supply company over violations of permit pumping limits, even as severe drought conditions have continued to deepen.

The company, Aqua Texas, has taken almost twice its permitted allotment for two consecutive years and has declined to abide by drought restrictions, according to Charlie Flatten, general manager of the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District. This month, Aqua sued the conservation district in federal court. Its legal brief didnt address whether Aqua had overpumped, but accused the groundwater district of violating due process and of unequal application of its penalty policy. It added that Aqua Texas has voluntarily spent millions of dollars in water conservation. The groundwater district, in legal documents, has denied Aquas allegations.

Were already seeing wells drying up, not just in specific sections but across the district, Flatten said. As we continue to use water and there continues to be no recharge, more and more wells will be affected.

Another major nearby water source, the Canyon Lake reservoir, started last year 80% full, surpassed its record low of 68% in August and is 60% full today.

Falcon Reservoir, which supplies water to the Rio Grande Valley downstream from Laredo, was just 10% full in mid-August 2022. Credit: Dylan Baddour/Inside Climate News

The Lower Rio Grande: Texas and Mexico

The biggest water problems in Texas lie along its southern border, where some 6 million people in two countries depend on the dwindling Lower Rio Grande system.

At the rivers end, amid the irrigated fields of the fertile Rio Grande Valley, farmers have lost crops midseason in recent years due to water shortages. This year, many wont plant at all, worried they will lose the investment to another summer drought, said Darling, the Rio Grande Regional Water Authority president.

That creates a spiraling conundrum for the flourishing cities of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, home to more than a million people, he said. The once-prosperous agricultural sector historically accounts for more than 80% of water demand here. Without its vast volumes flowing for irrigation, the regions network of canals would almost dry up. Cities would lose more than half their water supply to evaporation and soil absorption along its 70-mile journey from the nearest reservoir.

There are two possible temporary remedies to this problem, Darling said.

One is the weather. The only other time the Rio Grande reservoirs fell as low as they have today, around 2000, a hurricane soon hit and refilled them almost entirely. A Pacific storm could also bring relief to the bulk of the Rio Grande watershed, which covers the mountains of northwestern Mexico.

Another is international politics. Because most of the water used by Texas farmers on the Lower Rio Grande originates as rainfall in Northern Mexico, a binational treaty governs water sharing between the countries.

Northern Mexico has experienced its own water crises lately, including a deadly riot at a reservoir dam in 2020 and months of water rationing in 2022 in one of the countrys largest cities. So, its been reluctant to release water for Texas farmers, contributing to low levels in the downstream reservoirs.

Since 2020, Mexico has fallen sharply behind on its schedule of water releases to Texas under the treaty, which was ratified in 1944. It has until the end of 2025 before it faces delinquency. But the Rio Grande Valley of Texas might not have another two years to wait, Darling said.

The political situation is managed primarily by the International Boundary and Water Commission, a small agency operated by the U.S. and Mexico.

We are negotiating an agreement with Mexico intended to improve the predictability and reliability of Rio Grande water deliveries, said an agency spokesperson, Frank Fisher. We hope this agreement will provide tools that will help users affected by supply shortages.

North of the border, Fisher said, water restrictions will be managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

A TCEQ spokesperson, Victoria Cann, said the agency has warned users about declining storage and encouraged users to plan for water shortages.

TCEQ continues to advocate for water users on the Rio Grande by communicating to IBWC the need for Mexico to deliver on their water obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty, Cann said.

Disclosure: Exxon Mobil Corporation has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.
Record-breaking temperatures will soon ease up on the East Coast as arctic air ceases to push down from Canada, the National Weather Service (NWS) said Monday.

The easing of strong weather comes after subzero temperatures gripped much of the country, resulting in dozens of deaths, according to The Associated Press.

With no additional replenishment of arctic air from Canada, a steady warm-up is expected to spread across the country from west to east through the next couple of days, the NWS said in a statement.

Today will be the final day of the deep freeze over the East Coast where temperatures will start out in the teens but they will quickly rebound to near normal levels on Tuesday, the statement continued.

Monday will still feel the remnants of the arctic air, as an expansive arctic high-pressure system slides eastward across the eastern U.S. today, the NWS said, adding it leaves behind a channel of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico into the southern Plains.

Southern Texas will see heavy rain Monday, and arctic air still extends through portions of Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri. This channel of moisture will then sweep upward to the northeast, which will bring periods of freezing rain and sleet across the Midwest, reaching the lower Great Lakes by Monday night.

The lower Great Lakes and some of New England can expect to see some accumulating snowfall Tuesday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.